South Africa: Pandor to host Norwegian counterpart

International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, is expected to host her Norwegian counterpart, Anniken Huitfeldt, for the sixth session of the South AfricaNorway high-level consultations.

At Wednesdays consultations, the Ministers are expected to review the status of bilateral political and economic relations.

Discussions will also focus on issues of peace and security in Africa, Europe and the Middle East, as well as discussions on multilateralism and the rule of law, said the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) in a statement on Monday.

Relations between South Africa and Norway are well-established, mature and mutually beneficial.

Since 1994, through the respective government programmes and commitments, an excellent foundation has been created that is serving our mutual benefit in the current international environment.

The two countries enjoy excellent political and economic relations and cooperate on a wide range of interlinking global issues. These include global health, climate change, energy, sustainable blue economy, peace and reconciliation, womens peace and security, and trade and investment.

South Africa views Norway as a significant player in the countrys energy sector.

The Norwegian company Scatec Solar is constructing Africas largest solar farm at Kenhardt in the Northern Cape.

According to DIRCO, the project will have an installed output capacity of 540MW and 1 140MWh of battery storage.

Meanwhile, trade relations between South Africa and Norway continue to grow steadily.

Records show that trade increased by 6% to R4.5 billion in 2020 but declined by 29% in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In addition, new Norwegian investments of over R20 billion were announced during last years South Africa Investment Conference.

South Africa and Norway also cooperate closely on issues of mediation and peacebuilding and partners on the Gertrude Shope Annual Dialogue Forum on Conflict Resolution and Peace-making.

The programme was extended to include capacity building for women peace mediators in 2018, of which 850 mediators have been trained so far.  SAnews.gov.za

This story has been published on: 2023-04-18. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Satellite launch pad completes 100th mission in NW China

Xinhua) 08:16, April 18, 2023

A Long March-4B rocket carrying the Fengyun-3 07 satellite blasts off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, April 16, 2023. (Photo by Wang Jiangbo/Xinhua)

JIUQUAN, April 17 (Xinhua) -- A launch pad at northwest China's Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center has completed its 100th mission, following the launch of a Long March-4B rocket that placed a new meteorological satellite in space on Sunday.

The launch pad, officially put into use in May 2003, was the first launch pad in China that had reinforced concrete as its main structure.

Over the past 20 years, the number of missions carried out on this launch pad annually has increased to more than 10, said He Pengju, an expert working at the launch center.

The testing process and the efficiency of post-launch recovery have been continuously optimized, He said.

So far, the launch pad has placed more than 190 satellites into their planned orbits, including the dark matter probe satellite Wukong and the quantum science satellite Mozi.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Wu Chaolan)
Photo: The Canadian Press Japan's Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi, left, talks with Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly at the start of the fifth working session of a G7 Foreign Ministers' Meeting at the Prince Karuizawa hotel in Karuizawa, Japan Tuesday, April 18, 2023. (Yuichi Yamazaki/Pool Photo via AP)

Top diplomats from the Group of Seven wealthy democracies vowed a unified front against Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, saying at the close of their meetings Tuesday that they were committed to boosting and enforcing tough sanctions against Moscow.

The G-7 communique laying out their commitments also included strong words meant to curb what the ministers see as increasing Chinese and North Korean aggressiveness in Northeast Asia.

But it was Russia's invasion against Ukraine that highlighted the three-day summit in this hot spring resort town.

There can be no impunity for war crimes and other atrocities such as Russias attacks against civilians and critical civilian infrastructure, the ministers said.

We remain committed to intensifying sanctions against Russia, coordinating and fully enforcing them, the communique said, and would support Ukraine for as long as it takes.

Russias irresponsible nuclear rhetoric and its threat to deploy nuclear weapons in Belarus are unacceptable, the ministers said.

The foreign ministers' document was prepared as a template for global leaders to use at a G-7 summit that will be held in Hiroshima next month, and included language about Iran, Myanmar, nuclear proliferation and other grave issues.

But two crises stood out: Chinas increasing threats to, and military maneuvers around, Taiwan, the self-governing democracy that Beijing claims as its own, and Russias invasion of Ukraine. Russias current offensive is largely stalled and Ukraine is preparing a counteroffensive, but theres widespread global worry about the Russian leaders repeated threats to use tactical nuclear weapons.

The G-7 ministers from Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Canada, Italy and the European Union have underlined that their meeting in Karuizawa marked a crucial moment in the worlds response to both crises, which are seen as challenges to the post-World War II rules-based international order. Global efforts to confront the matters at the United Nations have been stymied by Chinese and Russian intransigence on the Security Council.

Leaders and foreign ministers of G-7 countries, most recently France and Germany, have recently concluded visits to China, and there is growing worry after China recently sent planes and ships to simulate an encirclement of Taiwan. Beijing has also been rapidly adding nuclear warheads, taking a tougher line on its claim to the South China Sea and painting a scenario of impending confrontation.

The G-7 ministers said that peace and stability between China and Taiwan is an indispensable element in security and prosperity in the international community," and the called for "the peaceful resolution of cross-Strait issues.

The communique also urged China to abstain from threats, coercion, intimidation, or the use of force. We remain seriously concerned about the situation in the East and South China Seas. ... There is no legal basis for Chinas expansive maritime claims in the South China Sea, and we oppose Chinas militarization activities in the region.

The Biden administration has seen the Japan talks as a way to shore up support for Ukraine, including a major initiative on Ukraines energy infrastructure launched at last years G-7 gatherings in Germany, and to ensure the continued provision of military assistance to Kyiv. Nations are also looking to ramp up punishment against Russia, particularly through economic and financial sanctions.
New Braunfels, TX (78130)

Today

Cloudy in the morning with scattered thunderstorms developing later in the day. High 83F. Winds SSE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms during the evening becoming more widespread overnight. A few storms may be severe. Low 62F. SSE winds shifting to WNW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 80%.
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BRISTOL, Va.  Meeting simultaneously Monday less than a mile apart, Bristols two councils unanimously approved an agreement settling a federal lawsuit Bristol, Tennessee, filed last May over the Bristol Virginia Landfill.

The settlement was developed during a daylong March 14 mediation session with U.S. Magistrate Judge Pamela Meade Sargent, which included Bristol, Virginia, Mayor Neal Osborne, Vice Mayor Becky Nave, the city manager and city attorney from both and attorneys for both sides.

On Monday the councils approved a consent order to resolve disputes over widespread environmental concerns regarding Bristol, Virginias maintenance and operation of its solid waste landfill.

This takes us out of active litigation. Weve come to an agreement on what needs to happen, Osborne said after the six-minute meeting. Well be paying some legal fees to the city of Bristol, Tennessee. Well be doing air sample monitoring going forward. I think its very net positive for both cities.

Bristol, Tennessee, filed its action May 26, 2022, alleging Bristol, Virginia, violated the federal Clean Air Act and Resource Recover and Conservation Act and a claim of public nuisance. Bristol, Virginia, responded with an offer to resolve the litigation almost immediately but it was resolved through the court-ordered mediation, combined with a consent agreement between Bristol, Virginia, and Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares  on behalf of the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality  which included many of the same components as the federal lawsuit.

This consent order resolves all damages, attorneys fees, expert fees, and other costs incurred by either party as of the entry of this consent order, according to a Bristol, Virginia, memo.

It wasnt just City Council. It was lots and lots of people who have a heart not just for Bristol, Tennessee, but for Bristol, Virginia, as well, and we wanted to see things move in a hopeful and positive direction, Bristol, Tennessee, Vice Mayor Mark Hutton said during their meeting. It was a hard decision to take this step, to take legal action against people you are joined at the hip with. Im looking forward to broad, sunlit uplands that we can work together as one city.

Bristol, Tennessee, Councilman Mahlon Luttrell also weighed in.

This has been very divisive between our two cities, Luttrell said during their meeting. Its very unfortunate that weve been in a situation and hopefully, as we go forward, now some healing can begin.

Joel Kellog, a Bristol, Tennessee, resident and president of the HOPE for Bristol citizens group, thanked the Tennessee side council for its work and emphasized the two words that stand out from the litigation were permanent closure.

Were here to commend you for your courage, conviction and commitment to our community, your actions along with those of Mr. Sorah, Mrs. Smith, Mr. Anderson, Mr. Doherty, and all of your impressive staff, have brought us to this historic moment in time, Kellogg said before their vote. The bravery and resolve you have shown during this process is remarkable.

Youre about to accomplish something that no other government or agency has been able to or willing to accomplish, and that is permanent closure, Kellogg said. Those two simple words bring a sigh of relief from the thousands of affected residents. We can now move forward knowing that the possibility of ever reopening this monumental disaster is gone.

Recently elected Bristol, Virginia, Councilman Michael Pollard was the only member who spoke prior to that groups vote and addressed that very issue.

I am glad to see a lot of the details in the consent order; that many of the big issues are finally resolved, not only now but for good, Pollard said. I know some were concerned about the wording about a permanent closure but I know all of us agreed that it was going to be a permanent closure anyway.

Bristol, Virginia, officials have remained committed to closing the landfill since announcing last September no more trash would be accepted there. The specter of reopening emerged in December when a former councilman publicly suggested the city should consider reopening as a way to help pay for the work.

However, other council members quickly dismissed that idea.

As Osborne noted, Bristol, Virginia, is to pay Bristol, Tennessee, $300,000 within 30 days, not accept any additional waste at the landfill and initiate continuous air monitoring checking for hydrogen sulfide, total reduced sulfur and volatile organic compounds throughout construction of the EVOH cover. The city must also allow Bristol, Tennessee, to inspect the landfill and, finally, obtain state approval to permanently close the landfill once all remediation work is complete.

While this resolves the federal lawsuit, Bristol, Virginia, is a long way from completing all of the projects spelled out in the 23-page agreement.

Also at issue is how the city will pay for the work. City officials are requested $12 million in aid from the state and more than $50 million from the federal government but responses to those requests are at least months away.

In the meantime the city is expected to borrow an additional $30 million  maximizing its debt capacity  to pay for ongoing and future work. That doesnt include closure and post-closure costs and monitoring.

Presently at the landfill, contractors are working to install an experimental sidewall odor mitigation system and drilling and connecting new gas wells to further extract methane gas from the landfill.

Last week the council approved spending about $500,000 to lease equipment for a temporary project to scrub benzene emissions with the permanent project expected to cost about $7 million.

Staff reporter Joaquin Mancera contributed to this report.
A 17-year-old Black male was shot at least one time on Tuesday on First Street SW in Hickory, according to Captain Jeff Young of the Hickory Police Department.

Police said the teen was in serious but stable condition.

The teen was shot in the leg or hip, Young said.

He added that police are investigating multiple shooting scenes in the area and are likely dealing with multiple shooters.

At least 15 shell casings could be seen in the street in the 900 block of First Street SW.
" " Elizabeth 'Mum Bett' Freeman was the first female enslaved person to sue for and win her freedom. Library of Congress

A Revolutionary War-era court case that granted an enslaved woman freedom from her cruel enslavers. A benevolent white lawyer turned employer. A name change at a crucial turning point. These are all moments in Elizabeth Freeman's life. Her story  or at least what we know of it  reads like a tale of grit and justice that's ripe for Hollywood dramatization. But, in reality, the circumstances of Freeman's triumph were rooted in necessity and survival.

Freeman  called Bett before she chose her new moniker  was born into slavery on an unknown date in the 1740s. By either inheritance or purchase, Freeman was enslaved as a child by Colonel John Ashley and his wife, Hannah. At the Ashley house in Sheffield, Massachusetts, Freeman did domestic work, served visitors and dealt with the reported brutality of Hannah Ashley.

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But by 1780, Freeman had become aware that documents like the Declaration of Independence and Massachusetts Constitution espoused the ideas of freedom and equality as birthrights. Freeman determined that she, too, was entitled to freedom by law. In the wake of other enslaved Black people and abolitionists who took their claims to court, Freeman decided to sue for her freedom. She had the help of lawyers Theodore Sedgwick and Tapping Reeve to do so.

This wasn't a common course of action. Some enslaved people weren't aware that they could petition for their freedom and win, nor did they have the resources to do so. On top of that, challenging the law and one's enslavers could be risky and futile. However, freedom suits, or instances when enslaved people filed lawsuits against their enslavers to gain their freedom, weren't unprecedented in colonial times. Many of these suits were brought by men, and many of the claimants challenged the legitimacy of their own enslavement rather than the entire institution of slavery. For instance, Elizabeth Key sued for her freedom in Virginia in 1656 on the basis that her father was a free white man and she was a Christian, conditions that entitled her to freedom by English common law.

L'Merchie Frazier  an artist, educator, and director of education and interpretation at the Museum of African American History, Boston and Nantucket  speaks about the many reasons for enslaved people petitioning for freedom and about their awareness of the ability to do so. "Maybe [the enslaved petitioners] haven't been manumitted [set free] when their contract says they should be manumitted," says Frazier. "Maybe they should be, at this point in time, earning wages for their service. There are distinct differences in cases where petitions are brought, but they are not without the knowledge that they exist. They're not existing in a vacuum." Some enslaved people found ways to organize to win their freedom, she says.

Freeman asserted that she was free according to the rules that American politicians enshrined in governing documents. Catharine Maria Sedgwick, the daughter of lawyer Theodore Sedgwick, later wrote about Freeman's convictions. Sedgwick quoted Freeman: "I am not a dumb critter, won't the law give me my freedom?" Sedgwick went on to say about Freeman, "I can imagine her upright form as she stood dilating with her fresh hope based on the declaration of her intrinsic inalienable right." Freeman helped raise Catharine Sedgwick, and Catharine's records of the life of her beloved "Mumbet" have provided historians more information about Freeman's history than they would have had otherwise.

" " It was in this house in Sheffield, Massachusetts, that Mum Bett lived as an enslaved person owned by Colonel John Ashley and his wife, Hannah Ashley. Heidi De Vries /Flickr (CC By 2.0)

Freedom suits were often unsuccessful, resulting in neither the emancipation of the plaintiff nor the abolition of slavery in the place where the case was brought. But some, including Brom and Bett v. Ashley, were stories of liberation. Freeman's lawyers decided to add Brom, one of four other enslaved people at the Ashley estate, to the suit. Freeman may have sought the help of Theodore Sedgwick since he visited the Ashley house, or Sedgwick and Tapping Reeve may have pursued Freeman and Brom in order to test whether slavery was legal in Massachusetts under the new state constitution.

Either way, Sedgwick got a writ of replevin, which is an order authorizing the retaking of property by its rightful owner, from the court ordering John Ashley to release Freeman and Brom because they were not his property. He refused to release them and was ordered to appear in court. On Aug. 21, 1781, Sedgwick and Reeve argued before the Court of Common Pleas in Great Barrington that slavery was unconstitutional, since the Massachusetts Constitution stated that "all men are born free and equal." The next day, the jury determined that Brom and Freeman should be emancipated. The two were awarded 30 shillings in damages, and Ashley had to pay 5 pounds, 14 shillings, and 4 pence in court costs. Upon her victory, Freeman took her new name, an assertion of her newfound independence.

The outcome of Freeman's case, and the cases of an enslaved man named Quock Walker who won his freedom in 1781, showed that the legal (and moral) foundations of the institution of slavery were disintegrating. These cases marked the beginning of the end of slavery in Massachusetts  according to the 1790 census, no enslaved people lived in the state. That said, the state constitution was not amended to outlaw slavery, and people remained in bondage as chattel slavery became obsolete in Massachusetts.

Freeman went on to work for the Sedgwicks, providing her services in the household and community as a servant, midwife and governess. In a reversal almost too improbable for a third act, Freeman became one of the first women in Massachusetts to own property. She bought a home and land of her own, amassing enough wealth and property to create a will a couple of months before she died in December 1829. The items she owned and chose to pass down  shawls, gowns, earrings, quilts, spoons and gold beads, among other objects  tell a story about her character and what she valued, despite the lack of first-person accounts of Freeman's life.

"As we see her life unfolded in the ways that are accessible to us," says Frazier, "we find a woman who is not deterred from her honesty, her truth and her will to be free."

Now That's Fitting Elizabeth "Mum Bett" Freeman died at what was believed to be the age of 85 Dec. 28, 1829. She is the only non-family member buried in the Sedgwick family plot in Stockbridge, Massachusetts.
STATESVILLE  A Concord man has been arrested in connection to a bank robbery that occurred on March 10 in Statesville.

Michael Thomas Bzik, 36, was arrested on outstanding warrants for robbery with a dangerous weapon. He was taken into custody on Monday, the Statesville Police Department said in a news release.

This arrest stemmed from a robbery at the Bank of America located at 1616 E. Broad St. in Statesville on March 10, police said.

In a previous news release, Statesville police said a 5-foot-10inch- white male approximately 30 to 40 years old, with a medium build and brown hair, entered the Bank of America. He was wearing a blue surgical mask, eyeglasses, a tan or gray polo shirt, with a black undershirt and dark pants.

Once inside the bank, the suspect indicated that he had a gun and demanded money. The suspect left the bank with an undisclosed amount of cash and was driving a dark blue Toyota Prius. Investigators were able to review surveillance footage of the bank and secure photos of the suspect and suspect vehicle, the previous release stated.

Investigators from the Statesville Police Department and the N.C. State Bureau of Investigations travelled to Allentown, Pennsylvania and met with the Pennsylvania State Police. Investigators questioned several subjects while in Allentown and gained further evidence against Bzik, Statesville police said.

He was taken into custody without incident, Statesville police said.

Bzik is innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Special Olympics Cabarrus County is once again excited to host the annual Spring Games on Wednesday and Thursday April 19 -20, at the Cabarrus Arena and Event Center.

On these two days, over 900 individuals with intellectual disabilities from Cabarrus county will Go for the Gold as they compete in track and field events. This will be the largest number of participants since the conception of the event in 1972.

Opening ceremonies will start at 10 a.m., featuring the parade of athletes, athlete oath, lighting of the torch and a performance by the Aurora Color Guard, a special needs performance group.

The community is invited to come out and cheer on the athletes (no entry fee). For additional information, contact local coordinator, Emily Riley, at cabarrus@sonc.net

Adult, middle school and high school athletes will compete on Wednesday. Elementary athletes will compete on Thursday.
Steve Chawkins

A former obituary writer, Steve Chawkins joined the Los Angeles Times in 1987 after working as a reporter and editor at the Santa Fe Reporter in New Mexico and the Rocky Mountain News in Denver. He has been a roving state correspondent and a columnist and reporter in the Ventura County edition. He also was managing editor of the Ventura Star-Free Press. He graduated in 1969 from Trinity College in Hartford, Conn. Chawkins left The Times in 2015.
A teacher has been charged with 24 counts of felony sex offenses, including 12 counts of taking indecent liberties with a student, in Lincoln County.

Brittain Lee Nichols, 29, of Fort Mill, South Carolina, was arrested on Monday, according to a news release from the Lincolnton Police Department.

Police said they received a report of a teacher taking indecent liberties with a student at Battleground Elementary School on Jeb Seagle Drive in Lincolnton.

Police said the investigation led officers to three additional victims by the same suspect.

Police said some of the victims had more than one encounter with Nichols at the school.

Nichols is being held in the Lincoln County Jail under a $150,000 bond, the release said. He is charged with 12 counts of taking indecent liberties with a student and 12 counts of taking indecent liberties with a child.

Police are asking anyone with more information to contact Detective Diallo at 704-736-8900.
Consumers in ANZ are far more likely to prioritise data consent over personalised experiences with 70% of them believing consent should be sought before sharing data with third parties, well above the APAC average of 50%higher than China and Singapore at 36%, according to F5s 2023 Curve of Convenience Report.

The report highlights Asia Pacific consumers perspectives on balancing data sharing.

Another finding reveals 89% of people in ANZ are not comfortable with tracking mechanisms in their digital usage.

Additionally, in the event of a data leak, 71% of ANZ respondents indicated they are unwilling to continue buying from the company involved, much higher than the APAC-wide 53%, the study pointed out.

For instance, in contrast to the wider region, the report found consumers in ANZ have the least trust towards established brands and their commitment to cyber security, with only 36% believing their data is secure with those brands.

The APAC region, primarily China (70%), Singapore (63%), Japan (66%), and India (68%), demand a promise of personalised user experiences in exchange for transparent data sharing.

However, the promise seems insufficient to convince consumers in ANZ to share data, with only 42% willing to share data for a personalised experience.

Over the last three years, people truly realised the benefits of using online channels to work, play and connect, and ANZs organisational leaders are continuing to deliver and improve upon modern digital services, commented F5 regional vice president ANZ Jason Baden.

But, over the past six months, consumer attitudes to cybercrime, their applications, and their data have understandably changed. Business leaders are being tasked with battling the rising cyber-crime resulting from digital reliance, and the subsequent changes to regulation and compliance measures. Given digital channels are now such an integral part of our lives, leaders need to strike a careful balance between security and convenience, Baden added.

Other report findings included:

Third-party log-ins aid convenience: It has become standard practice for users to log in to websites and services using third-party authentication, such as through a Google or Facebook account. Across the APAC region, consumers appear to prioritise usability, with 77% of consumers preferring to log in with these third parties. In ANZ, the lowest region of adoption, the majority (66%) still prefer to use third-party log in features.

Digital payments are the way forward: Fifty-five percent of consumers prefer digital payments, and this number is likely to rise. Convenience and personalised experience play a big role in this trend as 79% of ANZ consumers are willing to save and share personal payment data on multiple platforms.

Even in ANZ, a region that prioritises security and privacy, theres a clear preference for digital payments over traditional methods. Sixty-two percent of ANZ consumers prefer digital payment over China at 53%.

Consumers are taking charge of their data: Fifty-three percent of consumers are likely to stop supporting a brand when data breaches occur with the number higher in ANZ at 71%. But, when presented with a clear resolution approach, 72% of the region may trust them again. The number is lower in ANZ: only 58% of consumers are expected to renew trust in a company if they have taken relevant steps to reinforce security.

The Curve of Convenience 2023 Report is a compilation of insights from more than 2,300 consumers across nine countries in the APAC region. It highlights a number of key differences in how ANZ consumers view cyber security compared with its regional counterparts.

The full Curve of Convenience 2023 Report can be found here.
COMPANY NEWS: Manhattan Associates Inc. (NASDAQ: MANH) today announced it has been named a Omni-Channel Execellce finalist in Australia, complementing its recent win for Best Fulfillment Advancement at the 2023 Vendors in Partnership (VIP) awards. The VIP awards recognise the solution most adept at solving the complex challenges of omnichannel fulfillment.

Manhattan Active  Omni, a cloud native unified commerce platform for order management, store inventory and fulfillment, point of sale, customer relationship management and digital self service, offers advanced omnichannel fulfillment capabilities that both increase topline revenue opportunities and reduce bottomline costs.

Customers of Manhattan Active Omni include retailers such as Australias Super Retail Group and global brands like Brooks Brothers, PacSun, Lamps Plus and Penti to name a few.

As part of the Active  Omni platform, Manhattans Order Management Solution leverages machine learning in its dynamic promising engine to evaluate all shopping and fulfillment channels, all fulfillment options, and generate precise and dependable pickup or delivery options online and in the store without any third-party software or connections. This solution can decrease late shipments by up to 30% while increasing loyalty and cart conversions.

The companys real-time sourcing optimisation technology also leverages machine learning to select the most profitable fulfillment location that still meets the promise made to the customer. This solution reduces split shipments by up to 50% and decreases out of stock and overstock items across the fulfillment network.

We are delighted that Manhattan has been named a Omni-Channel Execellce finalist in Australia, to go along with its recent win for Best Fulfillment Advancement by Vendors in Partnership, said Raghav Sibal, Managing Director, Australia & New Zealand for Manhattan Associates.

Manhattan Active Omni provides complete control of every aspect of omnichannel retail operationsat headquarters, in the contact center, or in the store. Everyone has the same holistic view of customers and their transactions, regardless of channel, with built-in case management, social listening, and communications. Retail store capabilities are presented in a modern user interface across any device, empowering store associates to support customers anywhere in the store.

In its latest update to Manhattan Active Omni, Manhattan has expanded its support for in-store RFID capabilities, enabling associates to significantly reduce time spent in inventory receiving, management and location activities by as much as 75%, so they can focus less on operational tasks and more on customer selling and engagement.

Manhattans advanced order fulfillment is beyond impressive, and the retail community is proud to honor their work,added Vicki Cantrell, founder and CEO of Vendors in Partnership. The VIP Awards are an annual industry celebration of the solution providers and innovations that are powering the retail ecosystem. The awards acknowledge service to the retail industry, the new ways that partnerships were formed and the recent challenges that were overcome.

Receive up-to-date product, customer and partner news directly from Manhattan Associates on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook.
As the grass grows greener and flowers bloom, this spring feels exceptionally hopeful. COVID-19 restrictions of past years put a damper on the joys of spending time with others. This year brings new hope and Crisis Control Ministrys signature event, Hope du Jour. Its the perfect opportunity to gather with friends and family for a good cause.

While Crisis Control Ministry celebrates its 50th anniversary, the long-running Hope du Jour fundraiser celebrates its 33rd year. This favorite event, while modified, did continue uninterrupted through the pandemic. This year, however, it celebrates a return to its former festivity. On Tuesday, May 2, participating restaurants in Forsyth County will donate 10% of their proceeds that day to Crisis Control Ministry.

We believe that Hope du Jour truly represents the spirit of Crisis Control Ministry, says Margaret Elliott, executive director. Neighbors helping neighbors is the foundation upon which Crisis Control Ministry was built. This event encourages people to come together, enjoy time and fellowship with family and friends, support our local restaurants and as a result help those in financial crisis in our community. It truly is a win-win for everyone.

None of this is possible without faithful support from local restaurants! While the proceeds from Hope du Jour allow the ministry to serve those in financial crisis, it is also a great way to support local restaurants. Try a new restaurant or visit an old favorite. Treat yourself to dessert or a drink at one of the participating coffee shops or breweries. You can even pick up takeout to put in the freezer so you dont have to cook on a busy day later. Its easy: Eat out, take out and help out!

Kimberly Gregg and her husband Murphy own Diamondback Grill in Winston-Salem. Murphy was a part of the creation of this event back in 1990 and has been a strong supporter ever since. Diamondback Grill is honored to have been a part of Hope du Jour since its origin 33 years ago, says Murphy and Kimberly Gregg and the Diamondback Grill family.

Claire Calvin opened her restaurant, East of Texas, just in time to participate in Hope du Jour. One of the great things about growing our business is that we can amplify the positive impact we have on the community when we partner with great nonprofits like Crisis Control Ministry by participating in Hope du Jour, says Calvin, who also owns The Porch Kitchen and Cantina and Alma Mexicana.

For the growing list of participating Hope du Jour restaurants, visit hopedujour.org.

Remember to share your Hope du Jour fun on social media. Tag Crisis Control Ministry on Facebook and Instagram and use the #hopedujour2023 hashtag.

For more information about Crisis Control Ministry, visit crisiscontrol.org.

This content was produced by Brand Ave. Studios. The news and editorial departments had no role in its creation or display. Brand Ave. Studios connects advertisers with a targeted audience through compelling content programs, from concept to production and distribution. For more information contact sales@brandavestudios.com.
Primo Water Corp. said Monday that its board of directors has agreed to a settlement with a small stakeholder that would allow it to submit up to four board nominees at the 2023 shareholder meeting.

As part of the settlement, Legion Partners Holdings LLC agreed to dismiss a lawsuit in the Ontario (Canada) Superior Court of Justice.

In response to the settlement, Primos board has rescheduled the shareholder meeting from May 3 to May 31. Shareholders must be registered by April 27 in order to vote.

Cott Corp., operating out of Tampa, Fla., completed its $775 million purchase of Primo of Winston-Salem in March 2020, keeping the Primo corporate name and brand.

Legion, based in Los Angeles, calls itself a significant shareholder in Primo even though its 1.43 million shares ranks 22nd in ownership at 1.5%, according to MSNMoney.com.

At the proposed four board representatives, Legion would control 40% of the 10-member board.

The board said it took this compromise action to avoid the ongoing and significant expense and distraction associated with litigation and determined that resolving the outstanding litigation was in the best interests of the company and its shareowners.

Primo Water will be mailing shareowners a revised proxy statement and a new blue proxy card. Any previously submitted proxies will be discarded, and shareowners will be required to resubmit their votes.

The shareholder dispute surfaced in early March when Legion affiliates provided notice it would submit four board nominees.

Primo had agreed to allow two board nominees to be presented to shareholders before the filing of the lawsuit. However, Primo made clear at that time the other two board nominees were not acceptable.

Primos board said it is not waiving the deficiencies in Legions notice relating to its two other candidates.

Those deficiencies, as previously described, involve troubling misrepresentations and omissions of material facts by the candidates themselves that simply cannot be ignored.

Legions reponse

Legion Partners said this outcome is confirmation of the position we have always taken: the actions by Primos Board  first attempting to invalidate our entire campaign and subsequently two of our nominees  were nothing more than a tactic to subvert the rights of shareowners.

Primos assertion that it has abandoned its efforts to block shareowners from voting on the Legion Partners nominees due to expense and distraction associated with the litigation is not credible, Legion said. Primos position in the litigation was meritless from the outset. Tellingly, Primo abandoned its position in the litigation before it had to file any evidence to justify its actions. The reality is that the attempt at invalidating our nominees has already cost Primo shareowners and Legion Partners millions of dollars in legal fees, and now is also resulting in the company having to postpone its annual meeting to May 31, 2023, causing unnecessary confusion for shareowners and forcing both sides to incur significant additional costs given the need to mail all new proxy materials.

Legion has claimed all four nominees are independent, highly-qualified director candidates.

Legion cited as an example that Primo chose to unilaterally implement similarly troubling bylaw amendments without a shareholder vote, including requiring a director questionnaire that Primo now is largely relying on to justify its attempt to invalidate Legion Partners nomination.

Legion said it has nominated four representatives in part because of its claims of a history of underperformance by the current board.

We believe that substantial shareholder-driven change in the boardroom is long overdue and necessary at the 2023 annual meeting of shareholders in order for Primo to achieve its full potential.

In September and October 2019, Legion submitted letters to Primo shareholders that were harshly critical of then-chief executive Matt Sheehan, then chairman and founder Billy Prim and several board members. Sheehan succeeded Prim as chief executive in May 2017.

Legion owned at that time 9.1% of Primo, or 3.57 million shares, trailing only Capital Research Global Investors of Los Angeles, which held a 10.6% stake.
Furman University isnt afraid to use its initials, giving bourbon drinkers  and assorted wiseacres  a chance to own their very own bottle of FU All the Time.

FU All the Time is a popular cheer at the university in Greenville, South Carolina.

The university figured it might work well as another kind of spirit.

We thought FU All the Time bourbon would be popular, and it was a huge hit, Elizabeth Lichtenberg, senior director of brand strategy and visual communications for Furman, said in a press release. Everyone loved it. It felt good to be able to offer the Furman Family something new and unique that they can enjoy and take some pride in, and give them a new way to toast and celebrate Furman.

Lichtenberg manages licensing for the university. The idea for the bourbon was pitched by Affinity Licensing, a university partner. The bourbon was developed by Ironclad Distillery in Newport News, Virginia, which makes a variety of bourbons and whiskeys.

According to FU lore, the cheer was made famous by two former Furman presidents. President Gordon Blackwell started the phrase in the 1960s, and his successor, John E. Johns, would do the cheer with a megaphone.

Joseph Vaughn, Furmans first Black undergraduate student and a Furman cheerleader, is also said to have had a hand in popularizing the beloved cheer.

FU All the Time is available at liquor stores in upstate South Carolina now, with distribution throughout the state coming soon.

And for North Carolina residents: It is legal to bring liquor across state lines by car, truck, plane and boat. Its not legal to buy it online.
Police have identified the four victims in a wrong-way wreck that occurred Sunday on southbound U.S. 52 near the Third Street bridge in downtown Winston-Salem.

A High Point woman and three Winston-Salem women died after the 2016 Nissan Sentra they were riding in was struck head on by a Honda Accord traveling the wrong way on the downtown expressway about 3 a.m.

Police have not yet released any information on possible charges.

Blanca Estela Castillo Bernal, 60, of High Point, the driver of the Nissan, died at the scene of the wreck, as did two of her passengers: Santa Hernandez Bernadino, 46, and Estefania Hernandez, 32, both of Winston-Salem.

The other passenger in the Nissan, Gregoria Noyola Jimenez, 64, of Winston-Salem, was transported to a local hospital for treatment of her injuries, but died at the hospital.

The driver of the 2010 Honda, Giovany Alarcon Ruiz, 45, of Winston-Salem, received only minor injuries and was taken to a local hospital for treatment.

Police released the names of the wreck victims after their next-of-kin were notified.

Police said they received a report about 3:04 a.m. Sunday of a driver traveling north in the southbound lanes of U.S. 52 downtown.

On arrival, they came upon the spot near the Third Street bridge crossing where the Nissan and the Honda collided head on.

The southbound lanes of U.S. 52 were closed between Martin Luther King Jr. Drive and Salem Parkway for about nine hours while police investigated and had the wreckage cleared.

Police said the two cars collided in the left lane of southbound U.S. 52.

The wreck marked the 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th motor vehicle fatalities in 2023, compared to three at the same time in 2022.

Police said their investigation remains active, and that anyone with information should call police at 336-773-7700 or Crime Stoppers at 336-727-2800.
A 33-year-old Lexington man was charged with multiple sex offenses after authorities say he encouraged a 15-year-old Michigan girl to make sexually explicit materials, the Davidson County Sheriffs Office said Monday.

Matthew Roberts of Lexington was charged with six counts of first-degree sexual exploitation of a minor and one count of taking indecent liberties with a minor. He was placed in the Davidson County jail with a May 8 court appearance scheduled.

The sheriffs office said Michigan State Police contacted them on March 27 regarding suspected child exploitation.

The Davidson County Sheriffs Office executed a search warrant at Roberts residence on April 14 and seized digital devices. The investigation showed that Roberts had encourage and induced the 15-year-old to make sexually explicit material over four months, from October of 2022 to January of 2023, authorities said.
The first grader with red hair and an infectious smile can do nothing more than watch.

While his classmates run and climb on Robinson Elementary School's brand-new playground, 7-year-old Finn Hall has to stay on the sidelines. He can't get on the equipment because Finn, who has cerebral palsy, is in a wheelchair. There are no ramps  only stairs  and on the ground level, there's little Finn can do but navigate the bright green poles supporting the play structure.

"It is so frustrating," Finn said after school last week.

But Finn wasn't content to stay on the sidelines. Neither was Cathy Martinez, Finn's grandmother.

Martinez, the president of the Autism Family Network and a vocal advocate for families with children who have special needs, arranged a meeting with the district about how to make the playground more inclusive.

"It's 2023. Why isn't it the standard?" Martinez asked. "We need to make sure 'all means all' is actually pertaining to all."

Now, Lincoln Public Schools has pledged to add inclusive elements to the playground at the city's newest elementary school near 102nd and Holdrege streets, including a ramp to grant access to the main playground structure and a wheelchair-accessible merry-go-round.

And it has also pledged to continue the conversation around playground accessibility by forming a committee to examine how LPS can make playgrounds and other physical spaces more inclusive.

"We were all very pleased with the outcome," said Martinez. "I think our request was very well-received  better than I expected."

Martinez, Finn and two other moms met with LPS Operations Director Scott Wieskamp at the playground to discuss the changes after Martinez sent an email to district and city officials.

Other changes planned include installing ground-level activity panels and tightening up the slats of a bridge on the main structure so wheelchairs won't get stuck. Martinez said the activity panels and merry-go-round  which will be flush to the ground, so children in wheelchairs can get on it  could be installed as soon as this summer, while the ramp may take longer.

Wieskamp said the timeline is partly dependent on logistics. The district just installed the playground equipment at Robinson in the past few weeks after lengthy supply chain delays. LPS has promised to cover the cost of the new inclusive components, Wieskamp said.

The changes at Robinson are part of a larger conversation happening in Lincoln to make playgrounds more inclusive beyond the bare-bones accessibility requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Martinez has helped lead the push for a new inclusive playground in the city after she received a call from a mother looking for more adaptive play equipment for her son, who has autism.

That phone call led to the city setting aside money for the inclusive playground at Mahoney Park and a $400,000 federal grant that will provide half of the funding and allow construction to begin in the spring of 2024.

The city also formed an advisory committee to look into updating Antelope Park and adding adaptive and inclusive components at all new parks and existing ones as they're renovated.

As far as the district goes, Kloefkorn Elementary appears to be the only precedent. In 2015, with the help of its PTO, the school installed first-of-its-kind inclusive equipment, like a wheelchair-accessible teeter-totter.

Erin Branch, the co-president of the Roper Elementary PTO, said parents have also raised money to install inclusive equipment at Roper's playground, but she said the project has been delayed. She hopes the new committee will help Roper and other schools get the inclusive equipment they want.

"Robinson is not the only school that is looking at this inclusive playground," she said. "This is something that needs to be addressed."

Federal law dictates playgrounds be accessible, which essentially means that the equipment must be reachable on the ground level. At Robinson, for example, there's a small ramp built into the rubber surface of the playground that allows Finn to get up next to the equipment, but not onto it.

"ADA compliant is that ramp," Martinez said.

Wieskamp said the district wants to do everything it can to accommodate students to make sure they're included but said it comes down in part to funding. The district does have some funds set aside from the 2020 bond issue for general infrastructure projects, which could potentially include upgrades at other playgrounds.

The committee looking at playground inclusivity will likely be convened in the fall, Wieskamp said, and be made up of parents, students and staff. The plan is to also examine other physical spaces beyond play areas that the district can improve upon, Wieskamp said.

"We want to be problem-solvers as a committee," Wieskamp said. "Not just problem-finders; we want to be problem-solvers."

For his part, Finn is already a problem-solver. In the meeting with his grandmother and Wieskamp, he pointed out what changes he would like to see. Now, he can confidently repeat the refrain Martinez says he's kept saying in the days since that meeting.

"I made change."

Top Journal Star photos for April 2023
A Saunders County sheriff's deputy and his wife were involved in a head-on collision near Missouri Valley, Iowa, on Easter, the sheriff's department said in a news release.

Tom Janecek has been with the Saunders County Sheriff's Office for 20 years as a deputy, and his wife Angela Janecek has been in the nursing field for 19. The couple from Ralston was taking their 1966 Impala for a Sunday drive when a vehicle crossed into their lane and hit them head on.

Tom was flown to University of Nebraska Medical Center, and Angela was flown to Bergan Mercy Hospital after the accident. Both were admitted with critical injuries.

Their daughter, Sarah Deselms, set up a GoFundMe page for the couple to help cover medical costs and recovery. The page, which was started on Friday, reached its goal of $10,000 in less than a day.
Renowned investment manager Richard Driehaus speaks at a CFA Society meeting at the The Metropolitan Club in the Willis Tower in 2017. (Michael Tercha / Chicago Tribune)

Two years after Chicago philanthropist Richard Driehaus died, his foundation is awarding more than $5 million in transformational legacy grants to support the causes he cared about most  historic preservation, the arts and investigative journalism.

The largest grants in the foundations 31-year history, announced Monday, will primarily benefit three Chicago-based organizations  Preservation Chicago, Arts Work Fund and the Better Government Association  providing a charitable windfall to sustain and expand their work.

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The organizations that these grants are going to, for the most part, are ones with which there was a really long relationship with the foundation, said Anne Lazar, executive director of the Driehaus Foundation. These are grants that establish an entirely different level of program work.

Preservation Chicago, a small nonprofit organization best known for its annual list of the citys most endangered historic structures, tops the recipients with a $2.3 million grant  nearly five times its annual budget. The two-year grant, the largest in Preservation Chicagos 21-year history, will be used to establish an endowment fund and hire a full-time development director.

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Building up the endowment would give the organization more stability and longevity, said Ward Miller, executive director of Preservation Chicago. This is the beginning of a really amazing, transformative process.

The grassroots group  it currently has four full-time employees  has been punching above its weight since inception, working to save everything from historic churches and warehouses to early Chicago skyscrapers. Among the organizations hundreds of victories was the 2021 Chicago landmark designation for the South Side home of Emmett Till, a monument to the Civil Rights Movement.

The Emmett Till and Mamie Till-Mobley home on May 15, 2022, on the South Side of Chicago. (Erin Hooley/Chicago Tribune)

Last week, Preservation Chicago helped get preliminary landmark recommendations for The Warehouse, the three-story West Loop birthplace of house music, as well as the Century and Consumers buildings, terra cotta skyscrapers facing demolition in the Loop.

Miller said the Driehaus Foundation gave Preservation Chicago its first grant nearly 20 years ago, and has been supporting its work ever since. He is hoping the endowment fund will be the gift that keeps on giving, encouraging other donors to follow suit.

The Driehaus Foundation is also awarding a $1.43 million legacy grant to the Better Government Association to expand the nonprofit news organizations reach beyond Chicago, establishing investigative partnerships with newsrooms in Rockford, Peoria, Springfield and Champaign.

It is the largest but not the first transformative grant the Driehaus Foundation has bestowed upon the century-old BGA. A supporter for more than 20 years, Driehaus awarded a $1 million matching grant in 2011 that provided a catalyst for reviving a news organization which had dwindled to three employees and a $300,000 annual budget in the new millennium. The BGA has since grown into a robust newsroom with 24 employees and a $5 million annual budget.

Last year, the BGA earned its first Pulitzer Prize for a collaboration with the Chicago Tribune, The Failures Before the Fires, an investigation into fatal fires that exposed flaws in Chicagos building code enforcement.

Former Chicago Tribune employee Cecilia Reyes reacts as she and Madison Hopkins of the Better Government Association, not pictured, win the 2022 Pulitzer Prize in Local Reporting on May 9, 2022. (Jose M. Osorio/Chicago Tribune)

The three-year legacy grant will be used to hire three new reporters and an editor to create investigative partnerships with downstate news organizations.

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Helping us take our work statewide in a really substantial way will address news deserts outside of the Chicago metro area, will bring more people into the work of doing this kind of journalism, and will really have an impact on our organization and across the state, said David Greising, president and chief executive of the Better Government Association. Its really a big deal for us.

The Driehaus Foundation also awarded $1.5 million to Arts Work Fund, a collaborative fund that provides grants for small arts and cultural organizations in Chicago and Cook County. Driehaus has partnered with Arts Work Fund since its inception in 2007.

The award will support the Arts Work Funds new Thrive program, which provides three-year unrestricted grants to Chicago-area arts organizations serving minorities, women, the LGBTQ+ community and people with disabilities.

Its a game changer, actually, said Marcia Festen, director of Arts Fund Work. These are arts organizations that we think are often overlooked by audiences, by traditional funders, but theyre critical to the vitality of Chicago.

The foundation is also awarding a $125,000 legacy grant to the American College of the Building Arts in Charleston, South Carolina.

A Chicago native who grew up in a modest Southwest Side bungalow, Richard Driehaus graduated from DePaul University and launched his career in 1968 at former Chicago investment bank A.G. Becker. A successful portfolio manager, he went on to work at several brokerage firms before founding Driehaus Capital Management in 1982. He rose to prominence in Chicagos philanthropic circles, supporting a number of causes, including the preservation of historical architecture.

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Driehaus died in March 2021 at the age of 78, but his foundation has continued to support the causes, and organizations, that he championed.

Last year, the Driehaus Foundation awarded 57 new grants for a total of $3,693,900. The average grant was about $64,800. Recipients included the Chicago Architecture Center, Chicago Public Media, Friends of the Chicago River, League of Chicago Theatres Foundation and Block Club Chicago.

Lazar said those types of operational grants will continue, but the foundation wanted to advance its philanthropic mission, and honor its founders legacy, with Mondays special awards.

The world of nonprofits out there, especially in Chicago, its just limitless opportunities, Lazar said. And as resourced as we are, it allows us to be flexible and seek out new ways in how can we support that work, make impact and do it in Richards spirit.

rchannick@chicagotribune.com
As it has been throughout the Lincoln mayoral race, public safety was the main theme at Tuesday's mayoral forum hosted by the Lincoln Independent Business Association.

Lincoln Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird touted the investments she has made in the Lincoln Police Department, including salary increases last year that made LPD officers the highest paid in the state.

She also disputed portrayals made in campaign ads supporting her opponent, Suzanne Geist, that Lincoln is an unsafe place to live.

"By every measure we are a safe city," Gaylor Baird said, noting that violent crime in Lincoln currently is down 22% compared with the city's five-year average.

She said portrayals painting Lincoln as a "crime-ridden, crime-infested underworld" are bad for the small businesses LIBA represents.

"That's not the Lincoln we know and it's not the Lincoln we need being described," she said. "That hurts your businesses and it hurts our ability to attract people to this city as employees to your business."

But Geist said that when she talks to Lincoln residents, public safety has been their "No. 1 issue."

Geist noted that while it's great to pay police officers well, they also need to feel supported, and she said many officers have told her they don't feel they have the support of Gaylor Baird's administration.

"Law enforcement supports me for a reason," said Geist, who has received the endorsement of the Lincoln Police Union.

She pointed out that in 2019, when Gaylor Baird took office, there were 346 sworn officers on the force, and that number currently stands at 336.

Geist said she would ensure the police department has enough money in its budget to recruit new officers and also would travel in person to help recruit officers in other cities.

The debate over public safety extended to the carrying of concealed weapons, with the two candidates clashing over LB77, a bill working its way through the Legislature that would allow people 21 and older to carry concealed handguns without a permit or any required safety training.

Geist, who said she's a strong supporter of the Second Amendment and a concealed-carry permit holder, said she supported the bill and voted for it after the second round of debate because the bill was amended to gain the support of most law enforcement organizations.

But she said she continues to have concerns about safety issues "especially in Lincoln and Omaha," and would not support the bill in its current form.

Gaylor Baird, who said she stands with the police chiefs of Lincoln and Omaha in opposing the bill, said passage of the bill would make the city less safe for residents and police officers.

She also accused Geist of flip-flopping her votes on the issue, supporting concealed carry wholeheartedly in her first term as a state senator but expressing concerns with the bill now that she's running for Lincoln mayor.

Geist and Gaylor Baird fielded questions on a number of other topics, including the condition of streets in Lincoln, rising housing costs, the city budget process and how Lincoln can attract and retain young people.

Gaylor Baird, who is a Democrat, said policies Geist, a Republican, has supported as a senator, including banning abortions after six weeks and not allowing gender-affirming treatments for transgender people under the age of 19, will drive young people away from Lincoln and Nebraska.

She said the city is being "undermined at the state Capitol," and said passing such legislation would be "the most unhelpful message ever to send to people."

Geist, however, countered that the issues and values being debated in the Legislature represent the views of a majority of Nebraskans.

She also said that the Lincoln mayor's office "is not the place to fight a culture war."

"I am committed to a city administration that focuses on city business," Geist said.
COLUMBUS, Ohio  A TikTok challenge in which people take large doses of Benadryl is being blamed for the death of a 13-year-old Ohio boy.

The parents of Jacob Stevens tell WSYX Channel 6 that their son took 12 to 14 of the pills for the over-the-counter antihistamine in an attempt to induce hallucinations. The dosage caused Jacob to have seizures and put him in a hospital, where he reportedly was on a ventilator for a week before he died.

Family members are calling attention to Jacobs death in hopes it will prevent other children from trying the challenge, WSYX reports.

Im going to do anything I can to make sure another child doesnt go through it, Jacobs grandmother, Dianna Stevens, tells WSYX.

The Benadryl challenge is not new. CBS News reports the Food and Drug Administration has for years cautioned against taking the challenge, which has spread on the social media app TikTok. A division of Johnson & Johnson that makes the drug says on a website the challenge is a dangerous trend and should be stopped immediately.

WYSX reports Jacob was described as a well-mannered, funny, loving kid. His parents are now pushing for age restrictions to purchase Benadryl and also for the use of TikTok.

The New York Post reports the social media app soon will limit under-18 users to one-hour of daily screen time. Users under 13 also will be limited to an hour, but a parent or guardian will need to set or enter a passcode to allow 30 additional minutes.

5 takeaways from TikTok CEO's first appearance before Congress Watch: TikTok CEO faces off with Congress, hoping to stave off possible ban over security fears Intro 1. Washington has already made up its mind about TikTok 2. TikTok CEO stresses its practices are no different than US tech giants 3. TikTok's impact on children a key point of focus 4. Chew criticized for avoiding questions. TikTok said Congress wasn't interested in his answers 5. Federal government ratchets up its rhetoric
WAYNE  A former Winside Public Schools art teacher was sentenced Monday to 180 days in jail for having sexual contact with a student.

Judge Ross Stoffer also placed Rachel McPhillips, 29, of Norfolk, on two years' probation.

McPhillips pleaded no contest in February in Wayne County Court to amended charges of disturbing the peace and attempted child abuse. She had initially been charged with third-degree sexual assault and child abuse.

McPhillips was arrested a year ago for having sexual contact from September 2021 through April 2022 with a male student who was then age 15 and turned 16 during that time period.

McPhillips was the first of two Winside teachers accused of having inappropriate contact with a student in the past year.

Cali Heikes, 26, of Winside, was arrested in January and faces charges of first-degree sexual abuse by a school employee and two counts of second-degree sexual abuse by a school employee. Heikes is accused of having sexual contact with a 16-year-old male student.

Today in history: April 18 1775: Paul Revere 1923: Yankee Stadium 1954: Gamal Abdel Nasser 1955: Albert Einstein 1966: Bill Russell 1978: The Panama Canal Treaty 2002: Robert Blake 2012: Dick Clark 2012: Leon Panetta 2016: Lin-Manuel Miranda 2019: Robert Mueller 2021: Maren Morris 2022: Alex Jones' Infowars
One person died and four people were injured Monday in an explosion at an ethanol plant in Wood River, a town of 1,200 that sits about 15 miles southwest of Grand Island.

One employee was pronounced dead at the Green Plains ethanol plant Monday afternoon following an explosion involving a liquid holding tank, according to a release from the Nebraska State Fire Marshal Agency.

Another employee is in critical condition at an Omaha hospital, the news release said.

And three contractors working at the facility, at 7874 S. 140th Road, were treated at a local hospital for minor injuries suffered in the explosion, which was reported to authorities at 2:40 p.m. Monday.

In a statement, a Green Plains spokeswoman said the explosion happened as the employees and contractors were conducting "routine maintenance and repairs on a whole stillage tank" at the plant Monday. She said the plant was not operational at the time of the incident.

The fire marshal agency said the explosion was accidental in nature and was a result of the maintenance work being done on the tank.

The agency said the explosion was not related to a fire that broke out at the same plant Friday, causing $2 million in damage but no injuries.

The spokeswoman said Green Plains, which is based in Omaha, is cooperating with the authorities and will launch its own investigation into Monday's incident.

"We send our thoughts, prayers and condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of our employee," she said.

The Hall County Attorney ordered an autopsy to determine the exact cause of the employee's death, according to the fire marshal agency, which withheld the deceased employee's identity Tuesday "pending identification and the notification of next of kin."

An area spokesperson for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration said the agency has opened an investigation into Green Plains.

The spokesman said the agency wouldn't comment further until completing the investigation. By law, OSHA has six months to do that.

Most dangerous cities in Nebraska Dangerous Cities in Nebraska 6. South Sioux City 5. Scottsbluff 4. North Platte 3. Lincoln 2. Grand Island 1. Omaha A note about the numbers
A body found near the Missouri River in Iowa has been identified as that of a 30-year-old Missouri man last seen more than a year ago.

The Fremont County Sheriffs Office said Monday that the human remains located at a remote location in rural Hamburg, Iowa, were those of Agustin Fonseca, 30, of Springfield, Missouri. No foul play is suspected in the death.

Deputies were called to the area March 20 by an employee of a real estate company who was scouting the property for deer when he happened upon human remains. Investigators located and seized several items from the scene including human skeletal remains, car keys and a gym pass.

The keys were to a 2015 Chevrolet Spark belonging to Fonseca that was recovered near Interstate 29. The last known sighting of Fonseca was Feb. 28, 2022, in Springfield.

Investigators said it appears Fonseca stopped his vehicle and walked west to the Missouri River.

Photos: National Guard Sendoff held at Memorial Stadium
Republican Rep. Mike Flood announced Tuesday that he and Democratic Rep. Joe Neguse of Colorado have formed a Congressional Bipartisan Innovation and Entrepreneurship Caucus to collaborate on federal policy to "drive America's innovation economy."

That policy would be "more supportive of emerging entrepreneurial communities across our country," Flood said.

Organizations across eastern Nebraska's 1st Congressional District, which he represents, are "incubating the next generation of startups and entrepreneurs" at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Northeast Community College in Norfolk, Flood said.

"We invite our colleagues to join us as we support the next generation of American entrepreneurs," he said.

"Colorado has long been known for innovation and entrepreneurship," Neguse said, and it is "positioned to be an innovation hub for years to come."

Flood and Neguse will be co-chairmen of the new House caucus.

Top Journal Star photos for April 2023
WINNEBAGO  Many in Winnebago consider the new St. Augustine Indian Mission School a blessing for students, teachers and the community.

But you can't go wrong with a few extra blessings.

The school won't be open for classes until August, but Catholic and tribal leaders will be there Tuesday to bestow their blessings upon a building that answers a lot of prayers. Some might say the project has been a miracle.

When fundraising kicked off in 2019 to replace the current aging school building, the Rev. Mark Beran, St. Augustine Indian Mission director and pastor of St. Augustine Church in Winnebago said he was told they'd be lucky to raise around $8 million, well short of the $13 million construction estimate.

Beran said he prayed to Saint Katharine Drexel, who was known as Mother Katherine when she and the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament in 1909 established the school in Winnebago to provide a Catholic education to children from the Winnebago and Omaha tribes.

"She built 60 schools. I figured she could build one more," Beran said.

Beran's prayers were answered.

The building eventually would come in under estimates at $10.5 million, and more than $10 million was raised from donors across Nebraska and Iowa, particularly Omaha and Sioux City.

"We had some people step forward that we'd never heard of before," Beran said. "We've done the project debt free, which is something I didn't expect."

Construction began in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic in October 2020, but many of the building materials had been ordered before COVID-related supply chain delays and shortages drove up construction costs.

There were some delays, and the school ultimately will open a year later than originally planned, but Beran's not going to complain.

"It always seemed like a dream that was off in the future or lines on paper that represented classrooms. To see it finished is almost surreal," he said.

It will replace a building built in 1967 that was not meant to be a school. Six years ago, engineers said it could be used safely for about seven to 10 more years. The roof leaks. There are large cracks inside and outside. Tiles on the gym floor are coming loose. The air system is noisy, making it hard for students and teachers to hear one another at times. The building isn't handicapped-accessible, either.

The mission faced the choice of spending millions to fix up a failing building or build a new school that would enable them to ditch three portable classrooms and bring all the school's programs, including a kitchen and lunchroom, under one roof.

It's no surprise they're happy with the decision to build the 45,000-square-foot school, which has an enrollment of nearly 100 students in kindergarten through eighth grade.

"I'm just looking forward to the opportunities it presents to give our kids the best learning environment, the learning environment they deserve," said Deacon Don Blackbird, the school's principal and a St. Augustine alum.

Classrooms aren't yet outfitted with all the technology teachers will have available to them, and electricians were at the school this week tweaking wiring in the gym, which has been used for some physical education classes already. That limited use of the building makes it harder for students and teachers to wait until August to move in.

"The anticipation is building, and it's been worth the wait," Blackbird said.

Many will get a long-awaited look inside Tuesday when a ribbon-cutting will be celebrated. Omaha Archbishop George Lucas will preside over Mass at St. Augustine Church, then bless the school. Tribal elders will conduct a cedar blessing to be followed by a drum ceremony.

The formalities will be fun, Beran said, but the real excitement comes in August, when students will step inside their new school to begin a new school year.

"That's actually what I'm looking forward to most is seeing them enter for the first time," Beran said.

At that point, the community will begin to reap the blessings they've received throughout the project.

States with the biggest Native American populations States with the biggest Native American populations #51. New Hampshire #50. District of Columbia #49. Vermont #48. Rhode Island #47. West Virginia #46. Delaware #45. Hawaii #44. Kentucky #43. Connecticut #42. Maine #41. Iowa #40. Wyoming #39. Mississippi #38. Arkansas #37. Massachusetts #36. Indiana #35. New Jersey #34. Nebraska #33. South Carolina #32. Maryland #31. Tennessee #30. Idaho #29. Alabama #28. Virginia #27. Ohio #26. Kansas #25. Missouri #24. Pennsylvania #23. Louisiana #22. Illinois #21. Utah #20. North Dakota #19. Georgia #18. Nevada #17. Oregon #16. Wisconsin #15. Minnesota #14. Colorado #13. Michigan #12. Florida #11. Montana #10. New York #9. South Dakota #8. Washington #7. Alaska #6. North Carolina #5. Texas #4. New Mexico #3. Oklahoma #2. California #1. Arizona States with the biggest Native American populations #51. Vermont #50. District of Columbia #49. New Hampshire #48. West Virginia #47. Rhode Island #46. Delaware #45. Maine #44. Hawaii #43. Wyoming #42. Kentucky #41. Connecticut #40. Iowa #39. Mississippi #38. Massachusetts #37. Arkansas #36. Tennessee #35. Indiana #34. South Carolina #33. Ohio #32. Kansas #31. Missouri #30. Pennsylvania #29. Nebraska #28. Louisiana #27. Idaho #26. Alabama #25. Maryland #24. Utah #23. New Jersey #22. North Dakota #21. Virginia #20. Wisconsin #19. Nevada #18. Minnesota #17. Michigan #16. Georgia #15. Oregon #14. Colorado #13. Florida #12. Montana #11. South Dakota #10. Illinois #9. Alaska #8. Washington #7. North Carolina #6. New York #5. New Mexico #4. Texas #3. Arizona #2. Oklahoma #1. California
BRUSSELS  In the weeks since Chinese leader Xi Jinping won a third five-year term as president, setting him on course to remain in power for life, leaders and diplomats from around the world have beaten a path to his door. None more so than those from Europe.

French President Emmanuel Macron made a high-profile state visit to Beijing earlier this month accompanied by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, just days after Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock arrived in the northeast port city of Tianjin on April 13, following a visit by Chancellor Olaf Scholz in November.

For the 27-nation trading bloc, the reasons to head to China are clear.

As an ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Xi could play a pivotal role in helping to end the war in Ukraine. The conflict has dragged on for over a year, driven up energy prices and inflicted more damage on economies struggling to rebound from the coronavirus pandemic.

The Europeans want Xi's help. They want him to talk to Ukraine's president as well as Russia's, but they don't see him as the key mediator. Chinas proposed peace plan for Ukraine is mostly a list of its previously known positions and is unacceptable, EU officials say.

The EU also fears that Xi might supply weapons to Russia. They've been particularly disturbed by Putins plans to deploy tactical nuclear weapons to Belarus. That announcement came just days after Xi and Putin met to cement their no-limits friendship.

Baerbock said the war is top of my agenda. Praising Beijing for easing tensions between Saudi Arabia and Iran, she said that its influence vis a vis Russia will have consequences for the whole of Europe and for our relationship with China.

At the same time, the EU is deeply concerned about a military escalation in the Taiwan Strait. China launched war games just after Macron left. But unlike the U.S., with its military and strategic interest in Taiwan, the Europeans mostly see the island in economic and pro-democracy terms.

So the visits are meant to reassure Xi of respect for Beijing's control over all of Chinese territory and to urge calm. They also highlight the challenge the U.S. faces as it tries to build a coalition of countries to ramp up pressure on Beijing over its expansionist policies.

The key is that we have every interest, both in Europe and in China, to maintain the status quo, a senior EU official said .

Beyond the geopolitics lies business. The EU and China did more than $2.5 billion worth of trade every day last year, and the Europeans dont want to endanger that. However, the EU's trade deficit has more than tripled over the past decade, and it wants to level the business playing field.

It's also desperate to limit its imports of critical resources from China, like rare earth minerals or hi-tech components, after painfully weaning itself off its biggest, and most unreliable, gas supplier, Russia.

Its a fine line to walk, and China is adept at divide-and-conquer politics.

Over the past two decades, the Chinese government has often used its economic heft to pry France, Germany and other allies away from the U.S. on issues ranging from military security and trade to human rights and Taiwan.

Beijing has called repeatedly for a multi-polar world, a reference to Chinese frustration with U.S. dominance of global affairs and the ruling Communist Partys ambition to see the country become an international leader.

There has been a serious deviation in U.S. understanding and positioning about China, treating China as the primary opponent and the biggest geopolitical challenge, the Chinese foreign minister, Qin Gang, told reporters last month.

China-Europe relations are not targeted, dependent, or subject to third parties, he said.

Macrons visit appeared to illustrate that Qins view isnt just wishful thinking. As tensions rise between Beijing and Washington, the French leader said, it is important for Europe to retain its strategic autonomy.

Being a friend doesnt mean that you have to be a vassal, Macron said, repeating a remark from his trip that alarmed some European partners. Just because were allies, it doesnt mean (that) we no longer have the right to think for ourselves.

Such comments could strain ties with the U.S. and have also exposed divisions within the EU.

Without mentioning Macron, Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki warned that some in Europe were too slow to heed the wake-up call on China.

You could see this over the past couple of weeks as some European leaders went to Beijing, Morawiecki said, adding: I do not quite understand the idea of strategic autonomy, if it means de-facto shooting into our own knee.

For its part, the White House has sought to downplay Macrons talk of Europe as an independent pole in a multi-polar world.

It thinks European skepticism toward Beijing is growing. U.S. officials note a recent Dutch decision to restrict Chinas access to advanced computer chip components or Scholz publicly prodding Xi not to deliver weapons to Russia.

Despite the differences of national emphasis, the EU's strategy on China remains much as it was enshrined in 2019  that the Asian giant is "a partner, a competitor and systemic rival." The aim of the recent visits fit that mold: to secure Xi's commitment to peace, keep trade flowing fairly and reduce Europe's reliance on China for critical resources.

Timeline: Chinese leader Xi Jinping's rise and rule China's Xi Jinping expands power and promotes allies Early years Regional leader National leader
A Russian judge has ruled that American journalist Evan Gershkovich must remain behind bars on espionage charges. The case is part of a Kremlin crackdown on dissent and press freedom during the war in Ukraine. Appearing in public for the first time in weeks, the 31-year-old Wall Street Journal reporter stood in a defendants glass cage in Moscow City Court, wearing blue jeans and a navy blue gingham checked shirt. He paced at times and occasionally smiled as he acknowledged the other journalists in the courtroom. Gershkovich is the first U.S. correspondent since the Cold War to be detained in Russia on spying allegations. Gershkovich, his employer and the U.S. government deny the charges and demand his release.
Say pierogi and most people need no explanation: fried or boiled, these filled dumplings are nearly as integral to Chicagos local cuisine as deep-dish pizza and giardiniera.

Maybe youve also tried other Polish classics such as goabki (stuffed cabbage) or makowiec cake (poppy seed roll). Every cuisine is a reflection of geopolitical history, and in Polands case, quite a bit of culinary inspiration can be traced to Turkey and Central Asia.

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Poland has had historic connections with Turkey for over 600 years. One current case in point is Polonezkoj, a Polish neighborhood in Istanbul thats been documented by a few YouTubers in recent years. Situated on the transcontinental citys Asian side, this small community was founded shortly after Polands 1830 uprising against the Russian Empire, when the Ottoman Empire offered the area to Polish exiles for settlement.

This connection remains embedded in classic Polish cuisine. Goabki is like a larger version of dolma, but with a Slavic spin, featuring ground pork. Pierogi supposedly came to Poland in the 14th century with the Tatars, Turkic nomadic tribes from Central Asia. Steak Tatar, a popular Polish appetizer that drops the e of Frances tartare, is another tip of the hat to history (although its debated whether its origin truly is Tatar or French). When Asian culture was in vogue in Western Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries, coffee and Middle Eastern sweets such as halvah became the craze in Poland; today youll find it renamed as chawa in lots of sweet shops in Poland.

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Polish cooking certainly has a strong personality of its own, centered around local meats, root vegetables, fermented or pickled vegetables, mushrooms and grains. The technique of frying beans, cauliflower and asparagus with breadcrumbs is known as polonaise. But the use of dried fruits, nuts and aromatic spices really illustrates Polands past exchanges with Ottoman culture: roasted duck or bacon with plums, hot soups with fresh strawberries or dried prunes with cloves and cinnamon, and baked treats like the poppy seed roll or keks cake with dried fruits and walnuts are just a few examples.

Here are five Polish restaurants and a bakery in Chicagoland, listed in alphabeticalorder, where you can explore these sweet and savory flavor combinations.

Bacowka

Located in northwest suburban Schaumburg next to a Polish supermarket, Bacowka offers down-home Polish classics, with quite a few highlander dishes. As you wait for your order, servers bring out little wooden boards with rye bread slices, pickles and pork fat  Polands answer to chips and salsa, or bread and olive oil.

Get their Golabki stuffed cabbage rolls ($8.50) over tomato sauce and mashed potatoes, and the Szaszlyk shish kebab ($12) with marinated pork tenderloin, potatoes and mixed salads. Vegetarians should try the pierogi ($8.50) with cheese and potatoes or sauerkraut and mushrooms, a side of beets ($5) and the excellent braised cabbage ($2.50).

1120 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg; 630-283-0023; bacowkail.com

Highlander House

Step into Highlander House and feel like youve been transported to an old log cabin in the Carpathian mountains of southern Poland, where the indigenous Goral people reside and keep merry with pierogi, grilled meats and cherry vodka.

Highlander cuisine comes with its own characteristic culture, traditions and people, says David Zygmunt, who manages the Palos Heights restaurant and bar together with owners Agnieszka and Staszek Bobak. Lamb chops, steak tartare and sheep cheese are not your typical Polish dinners. Here, dishes are prepared from scratch according to recipes from the southern region of Poland called Podhale.

Start off with a grilled sheep cheese appetizer ($11) with grilled bacon and cranberry sauce, followed by sauerkraut soup ($8) served in a steel cauldron. For a main course, look for the duck breast ($29) accepted with plum sauce, highlander dumplings, carrot and asparagus. Complete your meal with a mountaineer-style tea spiked with cherry vodka, and you could almost imagine youre on a horse and carriage in the town of Zakopane, a mere 4,700 miles away.

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12333 S. Harlem Ave., Palos Heights; 708-942-3688; highlanderhouserestaurant.com

Staropolska

Many Polish restaurants in Chicago have disappeared, in part due to gentrification and an aging population (fewer migrants come here since Poland joined the European Union), but the family-owned Staropolska has been standing strong in Logan Square since 1978. Its interior of beamed ceilings, brick walls, wrought-iron chandeliers and mural paintings of historic scenes make many Polish expatriates stop by whenever they feel the old motherland nostalgia.

Try bacon-rolled plums ($11) and strawberry pierogi ($13) to experience the Polish take on sweet and savory flavor combinations. If you arent big on fruit in cooking, another option is mushroom soup ($7) followed by Chicken Devolay ($17), a breaded and fried chicken stuffed with cheese and parsley butter.

3030 Milwaukee Ave., 773-342-0779, staropolskarestaurant.com

Tradycja Polish Fusion

If youre hungry for a modern version of Polish cooking, head to Tradycja Polish Fusion in Orland Park, where owner and executive chef Damian Piekarczyk enjoys pairing classic Polish lamb rack with chimichurri, or duck breast with cherry sauce and hummus.

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Turkish cuisine has had a huge impact on the development of Polish cuisine, he says. New settlers introduced spices like paprika and cumin centuries ago and gave us new flavors. One of the most popular Turkish dishes in Poland today is kebab, but we upgrade it a little bit with grilled lamb, beef or chicken, a napa cabbage slaw and amazing garlic sauce.

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If youre here with a larger party, start with the beef tartar ($18) with raw egg yolk, dill pickle, onion, mushrooms, smoked sprouts and mustard puree, and maybe also the Chef Board ($24) with sheep cheese, crispy bacon, house pate, fried pierogi, plum and pepper dressing, marinated mushrooms and pickled veggies. But if youre dining solo or with a date, you cant go wrong with the fried pierogi and stuffed cabbage ($17) with mushroom sauce and balsamic onion.

14478 S. La Grange Road, Orland Park; 708-949-8109; tradycjarestaurant.com

Wiklanskis Bakery

Lots of Polish bakeries and supermarkets in Chicago sell poppy seed roll (makowiec), but its not always easy to find a good one: it needs to have a generous amount of poppy filling, and most of all it cant taste dry. But makowiec, paczki with plum and rose fillings and more are on offer at Wiklanskis, in the Dunning neighborhood on Chicagos West Side. The bakery, run by husband-and-wife pair Waclaw and Dorota Wiklanski, the bakery also has a variety of breads and, if youre lucky, sometimes theres a honey cake studded with nuts. Dont be shy about the lack of English signs  just point at what looks good.

6006 W. Belmont Ave., 773-853-0077, facebook.com/WiklanskisBakery

Nikki ONeill is a freelance writer.

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YORKVILLE  A Kenosha man who was found unresponsive in a car at a gas station is facing multiple drug charges.

Edward S. Burke, 36, of the 900 block of 45th Street, was charged with a felony count of possession of cocaine, and misdemeanor counts of possession of a controlled substance and possess/illegally obtained prescription pills.

According to a criminal complaint, at 10:45 a.m. on Tuesday, a deputy was sent to a Petco gas station after a report of an unresponsive man in the back seat of a car.

The man, identified as Burke, was reportedly sleeping in the back seat.

The complaint said that when a deputy asked Burke if he was OK, Burke said the vehicle had broken down and it belonged to a friend who was supposed to return and pick him up.

Burke then allegedly started talking about another man, but was not making sense.

According to the complaint, Burke provided a portable breath test sample which showed a blood alcohol concentration of 0.039.

He was taken to the Racine County Jail and reportedly was found to be in possession of five white pills and two orange pills.

Burke allegedly said the the pills were Gabapentin, for which he did not have a valid prescription, and that he brought them to the jail to show the nurses what he takes for medication.

Burke also reportedly said that he took Suboxone, but again was not able to provide a valid prescription.

According to the complaint, the two orange pills had a white powdery substance that tested positive for cocaine.

Burke was given a $400 cash bond in Racine County Circuit Court on Wednesday. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for April 27 at the Racine County Law Enforcement Center, online court records show.

Mugshots: Racine County criminal complaints, April 12, 2023 Today's mugshots: April 12 These are images of people charged with a crime in Racine County. Booking photos are provided by Racine County law enforcement officials. A defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty and convicted. Imaia A. Mitchell Imaia A. Mitchell, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, possession of a controlled substance, possession of THC, carrying a concealed weapon. Devere A. Patton Devere A. Patton, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, obstructing an officer, possession of THC, carrying a concealed weapon. Brandon E. Rockweiler Brandon E. Rockweiler, 7100 block of 88th Avenue, Kenosha, possession of drug paraphernalia, felony bail jumping. Edward S. Burke Edward S. Burke, 900 block of 45th Street, Kenosha, possession of a controlled substance (possession of a controlled substance on or near certain places), possession of cocaine (possession of a controlled substance on or near certain places), possess/illegally obtained prescription (possession of a controlled substance on or near certain places). Erin L. Gilbreath Erin L. Gilbreath, 1700 block of North Main Street, Racine, misdemeanor battery (domestic abuse assessments), criminal damage to property (domestic abuse assessments), disorderly conduct (domestic abuse assessments). Josiah L. James Josiah L. James, 1700 block of Blake Avenue, Racine, manufacture/deliver cocaine (between 1-5 grams, possession with intent to deliver/distribute a controlled substance on or near a park), deliver fentanyl (less than or equal to 10 grams, possession with intent to deliver/distribute a controlled substance on or near a park), manufacture/deliver heroin (less than or equal to 3 grams, possession with intent to deliver/distribute a controlled substance on or near a park). Kalies I. Majors Kalies I. Majors, 2200 block of William Street, Racine, knowingly violate a domestic abuse injunction (domestic abuse assessments), misdemeanor battery (domestic abuse assessments), disorderly conduct (domestic abuse assessments).
RACINE  The Racine Unified School District board during its meeting Monday approved plans for work to maintain Dr. Jones Elementary, but the scope of that work still needs to be determined.

The work at Dr. Jones, which is scheduled to close at the end of this school year, is estimated to cost $2.47 million and would be paid for using referendum money.

But the board on Monday did not approve spending any money to work on Dr. Jones. It only approved a plan for RUSD administration to gather information about potential work at the building.

Any recommendations for any construction or renovation would come to the board for approval, said Peter Reynolds, RUSD chief operations officer.

Dr. Jones is closing soon but will not be demolished, so work is expected to occur in case the building reopens to students in the future.

Reynolds said during the boards April 3 work session that the school district is prepared to hold on to the vacant building through the 2027-28 school year if not a few years thereafter.

Board members on Monday expressed concerns about spending seven figures to upgrade a building that will soon be empty.

Thats a lot of money to tie up into something that were not going to be using, said board member Ally Docksey.

Docksey asked if some of the proposed work on larger-ticket items at Dr. Jones can be delayed to a point further down the road when were closer to understanding what the use of this building is.

We can definitely explore that as part of the project implementation, Reynolds replied.

Docksey asked the district to gather information about how much it would cost to do the minimal work required to maintain the school, which was built in 1968.

Im all for going ahead with trying to figure out what needs to be done in the building, but I am going to be asking questions and looking for it being the minimum that has to be done to be able to keep the building structurally sound, Docksey said.

Board President Jane Barbian said she shared Dockseys concerns and asked if the proposed work totaling $2.47 million needed to be done right away.

Ryan Schmidt, senior project manager at CG Schmidt, the firm that is working on referendum projects with RUSD, said the work can wait but will become more expensive over time.

I think there are some opportunities to refine what that scope looks like and not spend the total ($2.47 million), Schmidt said. All this work could be done a year or two, three years down the road, but the cost to do it does increase the longer you wait.

Design work approved

The School Board approved contracts for design work at two schools for referendum-funded projects.

The board awarded a contract for SC Johnson Elementary architecture and engineering services work to Partners In Design Architects at a cost of $875,096. Work at SC Johnson is estimated to cost $18.9 million and be completed by August 2025.

The board also awarded a contract for Fratt Elementary architectural engineering services work to LHB/JLA Architects at a cost of $561,489. Work at Fratt is estimated to cost $11.9 million and be completed by August 2026.

Other business

In other business, the board:

Approved a construction guaranteed maximum price of $55.55 million for referendum-funded work at Jerstad-Agerholm K-8 School.

Awarded a contract for Clifton Larson Allen to continue as the districts financial auditor from 2023 through 2025. The three-year contract is worth up to $169,300.

Awarded a contract for a fire alarm system replacement at Bull Early Education Center to Premier Power at a cost of $166,000.

Photos, videos of Racine teachers demonstrating for higher pay, school safety "Our voices matter" Racine Unified School District teachers demonstrate Monday at the RUSD Administrative Service Campus building before the RUSD school board mee Teachers chanting Racine Unified School District teachers demonstrate Monday at the RUSD Administrative Service Campus building before the RUSD school board mee Teachers protesting Racine Unified School District teachers demonstrate Monday at the RUSD Administrative Service Campus building before the RUSD school board mee "Where's the funding?" Racine Unified School District teachers demonstrate Monday evening at the RUSD Administrative Service Campus building before the RUSD school b "School funding crisis ahead" Racine Unified School District teachers demonstrate Monday evening at the RUSD Administrative Service Campus building before the RUSD school b "Teaching should not be a debt sentence" Racine Unified School District teachers demonstrate Monday at the RUSD Administrative Service Campus building before the RUSD school board mee "Where have all the teachers gone?" Racine Unified School District teachers demonstrate Monday at the RUSD Administrative Service Campus building before the RUSD school board mee "No cuts to our benefits" Racine Unified School District teachers demonstrate Monday evening at the RUSD Administrative Service Campus building before the RUSD school b "No process, no progress" Racine Unified School District teachers demonstrate Monday evening at the RUSD Administrative Service Campus building before the RUSD school b "Hands off our health care" Racine Unified School District teachers demonstrate Monday evening at the RUSD Administrative Service Campus building before the RUSD school b Racine teachers protest 2 Racine teachers protest 3 Racine teachers protest
The Racine County Youth in Governance program has now officially been around for a decade, and a new class of representatives is coming.

County Board Chairman Thomas Roanhouse announced the new class at the April 11 Racine County Board meeting.

The County Board and the Racine County University of Wisconsin-Madison Extension office created the Youth in Governance program to allow high school students from across Racine County to serve on County Board committees alongside County Board supervisors. The program is in its 10th year.

The participants and their committee assignments for the 2023-24 year are:

Christopher Naber and Madhura Patil: Economic Development and Land Use Planning Committee.

Adan Merino-Cabrera and Daysia Ward: Finance and Human Resources Committee.

Shritha Reddy and Addison Turek: Government Services Committee.

William Casterton and Jamillah Jallow: Health and Human Development Committee.

Nichola Blount and Itzetl Flores: Public Works, Parks and Facilities Committee.

Last years class of Youth in Governance representatives Mabel Beversdorf, Noura Deanparvar, Maren DeSonia, Katelyn Guerrero, Kalyn Holland, Jamillah Jallow, Charles Letsch, Rabeka Liberto, Shritha Reddy, Margarita Reyes-Pena and alternate Fiona Anton will be honored for their 2022-23 service term at the County Board meeting on Tuesday, May 9.

High school freshmen, sophomores and juniors at the time of their application are nominated by adults to be considered as an applicant for Youth in Governance.

This year, 52 Racine County high school students were nominated for the program, according to a news release from the county.

Twenty-seven youth applied, and 22 were interviewed by the Government Services Committee.

After interviews, 10 finalists and two alternates were selected to serve one-year terms, beginning in April.

County Board District 4 Supervisor Melissa Kaprelian, who chairs the Government Services Committee, said eight area high schools are represented in this years class.

Two of the students are returning from last years class, Shritha Reddy and Jamillah Jallow.

Kaprelian said that speaks volumes to how committed the students are.

This is a very competitive process, so its just amazing that these youth are ready and quite committed, Kaprelian said. They all have different leadership styles in what they do naturally, so theyre just looking to gain and expand.

Roanhouse stated in the release that its so exciting to participate in the Youth in Governance yearly selection process and he congratulated those chosen.

This years YIG representatives, like their predecessors, bring wide-eyed enthusiasm coupled with a huge appetite to get involved in and learn about county government, Roanhouse stated. The rewards are twofold: It is so much fun for our County Board supervisors to observe their progression from meeting to meeting, and upon completion, hearing YIG testimonials on how much they learned and gained.

Kaprelian said the adults and elected officials have a huge amount of pride in not only what the county is doing, but also being able to watch the youth.

She added the presence of the youth pulls the elected officials back to reality in making decisions and not losing sight of the future.

Sometimes the power is not so much with what is being said, but the presence itself, she said. It will be interesting to see what comes. All the ingredients are there to make this a successful program this year in Racine County.

More information For more information about the Racine County Youth in Governance program, go to racinecounty.com/departments/uw-extension/youth-in-governance or contact the Racine County University of Wisconsin-Madison Extension office at 262-767-2929.

Racine County Communications Center dispatchers at work during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, in photos Jacqueline Bratz and Jody Howell Amanda Kopatich and David Kettinger Amanda Kopatich David Kettinger Wendi Hood-Madsen Chris Morin
WATERFORD  In just four years, Celebrate Waterford has become a summer event that is very much about Waterford, for Waterford and by Waterford.

That is why the downtown festival of food, music and fun is making a triumphant return in 2023, despite recent turmoil within the organizing group Explore Waterford.

Business owners, volunteers and others are pulling together the many remaining details of the all-day event that takes over Main Street in the heart of the community.

With no current executive director on staff at Explore Waterford, festival planning has become an all-hands-on-deck proposition for anyone willing to pitch in.

Tanya Maney resigned in January as Explore Waterfords executive director, in a public falling-out that revealed sharp divisions within the group  and stirred questions about the future of its signature events.

But one thing is certain among those now rolling up their sleeves: Celebrate Waterford is not going to die.

It was just a question of who was going to step in, volunteer Donna Fearing said. Its a team effort, really.

Fearing, a business owner who also does marketing work for Explore Waterford, has found a helpful partner in Dawn Brummel, who was Maneys predecessor as executive director.

Despite stepping down from the organizing group in 2021, Brummel said she started Celebrate Waterford during her tenure, and she was not about to watch it fade away.

It was kind of like my baby, she said.

Through the efforts of Fearing, Brummel and others, the festival is scheduled July 8 with the same combination of games, attractions and promotions that have made it a community favorite.

Main Street again will be closed, and the beer will be flowing and music pumping from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. in a midsummer blowout celebration.

Even lingering disagreements stemming from Maneys departure are not keeping key downtown figures from doing their part to ensure the summer festival survives.

Eric Carlson, who resigned his seat on the Explore Waterford board during the melee, is offering a musical performance and is volunteering to assist with organizing the event.

Carlson said that while he remains unhappy about the circumstances surrounding the recent turmoil, he is not taking things personally, and he remains committed to the community.

Lifes too short to hold grudges, he said. Thats not going to unify Waterford.

Explore Waterford was formed in 2019 by combining the Waterford Area Chamber of Commerce and a downtown promotion group called Absolutely Waterford.

Based in a small office in the Waterford Village Hall, the private nonprofit group is the driving force behind the Waterford Christmas Parade and other activities.

During Brummels tenure as executive director, Explore Waterford organized a special celebration in the summer of 2020 to mark the completion of a road construction project that had snarled downtown traffic for months.

The event evolved into Celebrate Waterford and has since grown into a major annual event, complete with food trucks, petting zoos, mini-tractor races, circus performers and live music.

Maney, who succeeded Brummel in 2021, laid some of the groundwork for the 2023 festival before stepping down. In her Jan. 7 resignation, she cited disharmony with leaders of the groups board of directors, accusing them of acting behind her back.

In the ensuing public fallout, some questioned whether Explore Waterford could continue a full slate of its usual activities and events.

But a core group led by Fearing and Brummel has completed work on numerous details for Celebrate Waterford, which will include a full schedule of musical performers, many returning vendors, a new BMX bike exhibition and a beer tent operated by Explore Waterford.

Fearing said members of the Explore Waterford board have offered assistance, too, to make sure the festival returns this year.

They dont want the community to be disappointed, she said. Its been a great partnership.

The organizations board has agreed to compensate Fearing and Brummel for their assistance, based on a percentage of any proceeds realized from the all-day event. Details of the arrangement have not been disclosed.

Brummel credited Maney with signing musical performers and making other progress on the 2023 festival before her resignation.

The festival is important to Waterford, Brummel said, because it promotes downtown businesses and because it connects area residents with those same businesses.

Brushing aside past suggestions that the event could be relocated to a park, Brummel said she feels strongly that it should remain a street festival.

Theres something about closing the street down and having a celebration in the street, she said. It really is about bringing the community together.

In photos: Festival-goers crowd Downtown Waterford for Celebrate Waterford event Saturday Wyatt Cook, 6, of Waterford, on a mini-tractor at Celebrate Waterford event Laura Gillespie of Circus Seed Flowers displays her products at Celebrate Waterford Paul Smith and Jennifer Russ goes curbside during Celebrate Waterford Andy Schneider performs on piano during Celebrate Waterford festival Stuffed figurine on Main Street in Downtown Waterford for Celebrate Waterford event Nolan Stencel, 5, of the Town of Waterford, plays jumbo-sized game at Celebrate Waterford Sophie West and Finnly Pichler with rabbits at Celebrate Waterford petting zoo Liam Cook, 3, of Waterford, on a mini-tractor at Celebrate Waterford festival R.J. Halstead of Janesville plays guitar and signs at Celebrate Waterford event Thayne Krause of Waterford tosses bag during bag game at Celebrate Waterford
James Skibo was more than just an explorer of Wisconsins past.

As the states archaeologist, he was an ambassador of antiquity, sharing history and artifacts with community groups and members of the Wisconsin Historical Society. Skibo, who took on the role in 2021 after a distinguished career with Illinois State University, also worked closely with other archaeologists and the states Indigenous communities, especially after the remarkable discovery of two ancient canoes in Lake Mendota in 2021 and 2022.

Skibos work and passion were being fondly remembered after he died Friday after being found unresponsive in the lake just a few hundred yards east of where the canoes were found. Skibo, who was 63, was with two other divers, including marine archaeologist Tamara Thomsen, and was taking part in a preparation dive for the upcoming season, according to Christian Overland, director and CEO of the Historical Society.

He had retired and he chose to work with us, in terms of bringing his great expertise and conviction of education and democratizing archaeology and history for everyone. So, its a huge loss, Overland said Monday.

Jim was such a collaborator. Hes just one of those scientists/historians that worked for the greater good of everyone, and with our sovereign nations as well. Everybody is mourning right now.

Skibo was pulled from Lake Mendota just off McKenna Park in Shorewood Hills by rescue crews from the Madison Fire Department at about 9:20 a.m. Friday. The cause of death remains under investigation, according to the Dane County Medical Examiners Office.

For an archaeologist with decades of experience, finding the canoes and participating in the multiyear restoration effort at the State Archive Preservation Facility on Madisons Near East Side were among the highlights of a career that included years of study on Grand Island, located in Lake Superior off Munising, Michigan.

Carbon dating determined that one canoe found last September was 3,000 years old, making it the oldest boat ever found in the Great Lakes region. The other canoe, recovered in June 2021, was found to be about 1,200 years old.

He was looking forward to getting back in the water with his colleagues this spring to further explore the site of the historic canoe recoveries, as he knew there are many stories yet to be shared, the Historical Society wrote on its Facebook page.

Skibo had previously chaired the anthropology department at Illinois State University, where he worked for 27 years. During his career, Skibo authored and edited 11 books and reviewed dozens of articles on pottery, archaeological theory and the archaeology of the Great Lakes. From 2000 to 2018, Skibo co-edited, with Catherine Cameron, the Journal of Archaeological Method and Theory and edited a book series, Foundations of Archaeological Inquiry.

But when he retired from Illinois State, Skibo could not stay away from his craft and in 2021 was named Wisconsins state archaeologist.

He was a mentor but also a great learner, Overland said. And what I mean by a great learner is that he was an explorer. He was always thinking about what people could learn from history, not just reading it in books but bringing it to people.

Skibo also kept a robust schedule that often sent him to speaking engagements three or four times a week. Just two days before his death, Skibo and Thomsen spoke about the canoe recoveries at the 22nd annual meeting of the of the Lake Shore Nature Preserve. On Thursday night, Skibo was at the preservation facility sharing details and stories about the canoes at a special event for members of the Historical Society.

Skibo is survived by his wife of over 30 years, Becky, and his adult children, Matt and Sadie.

Overland praised Skibo for his continued outreach and collaboration and work to promote Wisconsin history not just to academics or in journals but to everyday Wisconsinites.

He brought people together, Overland said. He was a partner with many people, and people will miss that because Jim helped not just his team, but he helped out community members, too. He was the peoples archaeologist, and I would like him to remembered that way.

Photos: Dugout canoe recovered from Lake Mendota after 1,200 years Dugout canoe Dugout canoe Dougout canoe Dugout canoe Dugout canoe Dugout canoe Dugout canoe Dugout canoe Dugout canoe Dugout canoe Dugout canoe
1. Yes. Police officers should be the only ones armed in the council chambers. Period.

2. Yes. Such a ban is allowed by state law, and the city council should consider it .

3. No. The possibility of violence is always present, but disarming everyone isnt the answer.

4. No. Its unwise to change the city ordinance based on one unfortunate incident.

5. Unsure. Some steps must be taken, but its hard to say if a gun ban is necessary.

Vote

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Suppose punk rock had never caught on. Suppose the existing punk luminaries had made kitschy keyboard music  hyperpop  instead. The result might have sounded like 100 gecs, a boy-girl duo from the St. Louis suburbs, since fled to Los Angeles. Both Dylan Brady and Laura Les are staring down 30 but theyre associated with indiscriminate teenage troublemaking: they love, nay live, to push grown-ups buttons. In return, Americas kiddos love 100 gecs. Their bond with the under-18 crowd is so absolute that the band was name-dropped last year on Steve Martins Hulu series Only Murders in the Building, which is part whodunit and part sendup of generational friction.

Les is the duos frontwoman, a bottle blond without whom the music scene would feel much emptier. Her vocals, unbothered and deliciously snotty, are bested only by her lashing wit. (Particularly satisfying are Les jabs at polite society.) She claims to receive the most correspondence from older listeners, and its true that their fans are not monolithically underage. Last year the duo toured with Nine Inch Nails, a very august legacy act, and the NIN faithful were largely magnetized.

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The (expletive) we talk about is universal, Les says. And also, you know, theres no age limit on a guitar riff! Everyone loves a good guitar riff.

But it would seem obvious enough that young people are the duos bedrock constituency. At its tamest, their live show is highly charged and interactive. More often its just a free-for-all. The last time the duo was in Chicago, they were joined on the Titos stage at Lollapalooza by assorted non-musicians and roving teenagers; it was bedlam of a sort rarely observed at Lolla. And wouldnt you know? The bedlam was only beginning. Nothing could prepare a first-time listener for 10,000 gecs, the duos latest LP. 10,000 gecs is a month old. We are still trying to wrap our heads around this beastly, cacophonous sound collage.

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Talk about sonic promiscuity. 10,000 gecs takes that concept to delirious extremes. Four years ago it couldve been said of Brady and Les that they were in the business of hyperpop, of fidgety electronics; their 2019 debut, 1000 gecs, was a bleeps-and-bloops affair. But 10,000 gecs has something for all comers: slap bass improv, crunchy nu-metal riffage, ska hornlines and oodles of pop-punk. The records opener, Dumbest Girl Alive, conjures nostalgia for bop music, a charmingly adolescent subscene of Chicago hip hop that flourished in the mid 2010s.

That vocal melody (on Dumbest Girl Alive) is a bop melody, a hundred percent, says Les. We were 100% inspired by Sicko Mobb and (Lil) Durk and stuff like that. Thats been a recurring influence throughout our time working together.

Brady and Les met as upperclassmen attending rival high schools. Their relationship, such as it was, didnt portend a brilliant future. It was noncommittal. It wasnt until later on, when Les was studying at Chicagos Columbia College, that the pair started to build synergy. Their self-titled EP (2016) was redolent of bop music as well as grindcore  this sounds like the losingest combination of all time, but God bless 100 gecs for pulling it off.

Even at this early stage, Brady and Les could be many things contemporaneously.

Columbia was good to Les: You learn a lot there about the particulars of a given trade, she says. Things you wouldnt learn in, like, a standard film course. The years that followed were pretty good in theory; 1000 gecs was critically feted, so by all rights, 2019 should have been a time of celebration. But remote collaboration is hard and self-limiting. The distance between Les and her hyperpop soul mate, now based in Los Angeles, had become too much.

A pine tree in an industrial park on Algonquin Road in Des Plaines has "gifts" and other items placed in and around it, from fans of 100 gecs. The band used a photo of the tree as album cover art. (Jose M. Osorio / Chicago Tribune)

The worst part of that arrangement wasnt the nuts and bolts, Les says. It was not being able to hang out with my friend Dylan Brady. The experience is so much richer and fuller when you actually have the person next to you. I think so, anyway. Now that shes resettled out West, geography is no longer a cruel imposition.

Meanwhile in Chicagoland, young pilgrims are doing all they can to preserve a holy site: Gecca. You may have heard about the tree, a shaggy but well-fed ponderosa pine in north suburban Des Plaines. This inconspicuous tree was immortalized in the duos cover art and now attracts throngs of visitors. Their fans are devoutly loyal. Whats more punk than that?

100 gecs present: 10,000 gecs tour 2 with Machine Girl 7 p.m. April 20 at Byline Aragon Ballroom, 1106 W Lawrence Ave.; tickets (sold out) at 100gecs.com

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M.T. Richards is a freelance writer.
HOLDREGE  Pampered Soles Tanning & Spa in downtown Holdrege is celebrating its 20th anniversary with an open house from 3-6 p.m. April 27 at the business at 609 4th Ave.

The public is invited to attend the anniversary open house. Refreshments will be served, and the first 20 guests will receive a swag bag. Up to $1,000 in prizes will be given away through email, social media (Pampered Soles on Facebook and Instagram) and in person as part of the celebration.

Kris Shaver started Pampered Soles in April 2003 in Oxford. She moved the business to Atlanta in 2007 and then to its current location in January of 2016.

Shaver grew up in a family of cosmetologists, including her mother and grandmother.

I enjoyed playing in the salon when I was young and took quite an interest in the nail technology portion of the business, she said.

Shaver became a licensed nail technician in 2003. She achieved her product and service educator certificate from American International Industries in 2006. She then returned to school in 2013 to expand her business to include esthetics.

With each move, I have added more services, Shaver said. I attend as many classes as I can to learn about new products and procedures.

She serves thousands of guests each year from Holdrege and surrounding towns who come to relax, relieve stress and leave feeling rejuvenated and beautiful.

The most rewarding part of my job is making people feel good about themselves, Shaver said. The services I offer bring instant results and confidence to my clients.

Pampered Soles offers a variety of nail services including acrylic nails, gel polish/shellac and natural nail manicures. Pedicures are offered for both men and women. Other services include UV tanning and spray tanning, body waxing and sugaring, customized facials, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, extractions, ear piercing, makeup consultations, body treatments, massage therapy and the newest service, micro-needling.

Shaver said micro-needling is a minimally invasive skin procedure that uses thin needles to make tiny holes in the top skin layer. The damage helps stimulate the skins healing process so it produces more collagen and elastin to keep the skin smooth and firm. Micro-needling is mostly requested for the face, but it can also be used on legs, backs, necks or other areas with damaged, aging or scarred skin.

Besides Shaver, the Pampered Soles team also includes licensed massage therapist Grace (Monthey) Goodwin and spray tan specialist Dawn Keith.

For more information about Pampered Soles or the 20th anniversary open house, visit www.pamperedsolesonline.com (where customers can also book appointments online) or call the business at 308-991-8001.
WOOD RIVER  A Grand Island man died and four others were injured Monday afternoon in an explosion at the Green Plains Ethanol Plant in Wood River.

The Wood River Fire Department responded to the explosion just before 3 p.m. The Nebraska State Fire Marshal Agency said upon arrival, firefighters found a liquid holding tank had exploded. There was no fire.

Authorities said they are withholding the name of the deceased pending identification and notification of next of kin.

"We are deeply saddened to report that a Green Plains employee was fatally injured at our facility in Wood River, Nebraska, on April 17, 2023, during routine maintenance and repairs on a whole stillage tank," says a statement from Green Plains. "The plant was not operational at the time. We send our thoughts, prayers and condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of our employee. Another employee and three contractors on site were injured and are receiving medical treatment. We are cooperating with the authorities and will be conducting a full investigation."

The Nebraska State Fire Marshal Agency said one employee is in critical condition at an Omaha hospital. The contractors were treated and released from a Grand Island-area hospital. An autopsy is planned for the man that died.

Staff was working on the liquid holding tank at the time of the explosion, the state agency said. The cause is considered accidental, as a result of the work being done.

Green Plains is based in Omaha. According to the Green Plains website, the Wood River plant has 49 employees.
By Doyle McManus



The bizarre torrent of intelligence documents posted on a gamers' chat server, allegedly by a 21-year-old National Guard technician, produced headlines last week about a host of revelations including secret Russian military plans and U.S. espionage against allies like Israel and South Korea.



But some of the revelations weren't exactly new. U.S. allies learned long ago that our intelligence agencies spy on them, and most reacted to the news with a shrug.



But the damage to American foreign policy, especially the Biden administration's effort to organize international support for Ukraine, is real.



"This is embarrassing for anyone who's ever had a security clearance," a former senior official told me. "The allies are going to look at this and conclude that they can't trust us with any of their secrets." The so-called Discord leaks, named for the social media site where the documents appeared, were a windfall for Russia's counterintelligence agencies, too.



"The Russians can use those documents to make intelligence gathering more difficult for us," said Paul R. Pillar, a 28-year veteran of the CIA. "They can use them to narrow down the possibilities of where they've been compromised."



The documents included detailed assessments of Ukrainian army units, their deployment and the state of their weaponry.



U.S. officials have said most of the documents seem to be genuine, although at least one, a summary of Ukrainian and Russian casualties, has also turned up in a version that appears to have been doctored.



An FBI affidavit unsealed in U.S. District Court in Boston on Friday confirmed that at least one of the documents was genuine and was classified at the top secret level.



But intelligence experts said those disclosures may be less damaging than they look.



"The battlefield intelligence has a limited shelf life," said Douglas Lute, a retired Army lieutenant general and former commander of U.S. forces in Kosovo. "It changes almost day to day."



"The part that's most damaging is the information about which units are getting the most advanced armor," including Western tanks, Lute said. "The Russians can conclude that those are the units they should focus on."



But the Ukrainians can make things harder by changing unit names and assignments, he noted.

A bigger problem, Lute suggested, may be the leaks' effect on any countries willing to send aid to Ukraine, but only if they can keep their role secret. After the leaks, those governments are more likely to be risk averse.



One of the documents, for example, listed Serbia alongside the countries that have agreed to supply weapons to Ukraine  a surprise, since Serbia has officially stayed neutral on the war and has tried to maintain friendly relations with Russia.



Serbia's defense minister quickly denied that his government has supplied weapons to Ukraine, but added that he couldn't prevent private arms deals.



The biggest impact of the Discord leaks, though, could stem less from their substance than from the striking pessimism they revealed in U.S. intelligence assessments of Ukraine's planned spring offensive.



A U.S. intelligence assessment reported by the Washington Post warned that Ukraine suffers from "deficiencies in training and munitions" and said the offensive was likely to achieve only "modest territorial gains," a result "well short" of Kyiv's goals.

Officials have not contested the authenticity of the document. Another report warned that the war could descend into a long stalemate in 2024.



Some U.S. officials have been privately voicing similar assessments for months, warning that Ukraine's official goals for its counteroffensive may be unrealistic. The Ukrainians themselves have clamored publicly about shortages in air defense and artillery.



But those judgments somehow appeared starker on paper, in the spare language of official intelligence reports.



Just when President Joe Biden and his aides were trying to persuade other countries to step up their aid to Ukraine, the Discord documents put an unexpected spotlight on private U.S. doubts that Ukraine can win.



"It's not as if nobody realized the Ukrainians face a hell of a challenge," Pillar said. "But the fact that it's being said in official channels may make it more difficult to sustain the coalition" supporting the Kyiv government. Lute agreed. "This leak accelerates the erosion of Western support for Ukraine," he said.



Polls in the United States and Europe have found that public willingness to send aid to Ukraine is slowly declining. An Associated Press poll in February found that 48% of Americans supported U.S. weapons aid to Ukraine, down from 60% last May.



Governments facing public skepticism will be even less likely to continue contributing money and weapons to Kyiv if the war begins to look like a lost cause.



Ukraine's spring offensive was never a sure thing. The Discord leaks, however unlikely their origin, have made the stakes even higher.





This article was published in the Los Angeles Times and distributed by distributed by Tribune Content Agency.




Madison foodies: Its time to venture west.

Thats the word from Savor the River Valley, a new group of producers and sellers aiming to promote a burgeoning food culture in the greater Spring Green area.

The group will hold a Food and Farm Tour from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, encouraging visitors to make a regional driving tour of six hub sites, plus another 23 shops, farms and restaurants in Plain, Lone Rock and Spring Green itself.

Located 50 minutes west of Madison, Spring Green also will run its Saturday farmers market from 10 a.m. to noon. The Spring Green General Store, a longtime local market and performance venue at 137 S. Albany St., will host a free concert by the folk/Americana group Common Chord from 1 to 3 p.m.

The Farm and Food Tour is an opportunity to see a number of local operations with behind-the-scenes tours and is an opportunity to support local farmers and those who support them, said Kyle Adams, owner of the shop Wander Provisions, just across the street from the general store.

Stocked with local foods, vintage decor and a cooler topped with a sign proclaiming Midwest is Best, Wander Provisions is a locally focused deli and grocery that is trying to support as many small businesses in the state of Wisconsin as is possible, Adams said. Fresh sandwiches are made with locally sourced meats and cheeses, and the shelves are filled with items such as maple syrup, locally grown popcorn and kringle. Freshly made ice cream by another small business, The Frozen Local, also is sold inside the shop.

Adams slogan is Go outside. Take a snack, and Wander Provisions is an excellent example of what Savor is all about  promoting small local businesses, collaborating, connecting, said Patti Peltier, who lives in Spring Green.

Peltier, a retired freelance writer with a background in corporate marketing, is among the volunteers organizing Savor the River Valley. Along with raising the profile of area producers, the coalition aims to create a culture of local food tourism.

Started two years ago, Savor the River Valley now has the support of some of the areas high-profile tourist draws, such as American Players Theatre and Frank Lloyd Wrights Taliesin. The group also has sponsored several cooking classes that quickly sold out, Peltier said.

There are just so many young entrepreneurs on the local food scene, she said. And theyre all really cool people. I just feel like more people should know about them.

For example, she points out, how many people know that a small business in Lone Rock, population 837, makes handmade tortillas that are in demand by high-end sellers like Whole Foods Market?

Tortilleria Zepeda, owned by Heidi and Julian Zepeda, makes thick, flavorful tortillas using the ancient Mesoamerican process of nixtamalization. The tortillas are made with organic corn from small, local farms that is soaked overnight and ground in a labor-intensive process that better preserves the corns richness, nutritional value and digestibility.

The Zepedas met in Mexico, where Julian worked as a marine biologist. When the couple moved to Wisconsin, he missed one thing: tortillas that tasted like home. The Zepedas began making tortillas for their own consumption, but the authentic taste soon caught on with neighbors and the idea blossomed into a full-time business.

In 2020, the couple took over a former flour mill in Lone Rock, located an hour west of Madison and a few miles from the beef farm where Heidi grew up. They and their tiny staff, which includes Heidis sister Sabrina Pitts, now make some 7,000 tortillas a day.

Nixtamalization is part of the slow food movement, which is what I think so many of us are doing, going back to what these cultures and our ancestors did for thousands of years and that were perfect before food production became industrialized, Heidi Zepeda said.

If you go What: Savor the River Valley: Farm and Food Tour Where: Locations in Spring Green, Lone Rock, Plain, Ridgeway and surrounding area When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 22 Admission: Free Maps and information: www.savortherivervalley.org/events

During Saturdays Farm and Food event, the Zepedas will lead tours of Tortilleria Zepeda and explain the journey their product takes from farm field to the dinner table. The business is one of six hubs offering a first-person look, including:

Cedar Grove Cheese: See cheese made the old-fashioned way from milk that comes from nearby organic dairy farms and learn about the art of cheesemaking. E5904 Mill St., Plain. cedargrovecheese.com

See cheese made the old-fashioned way from milk that comes from nearby organic dairy farms and learn about the art of cheesemaking. E5904 Mill St., Plain. cedargrovecheese.com Tortilleria Zepeda: View the entire process of making artisan nixtamalized tortillas, from corn kernel to finished product. The business also offers Mezcal tasting events by reservation. 304 S. Oak St., Lone Rock. tortilleriazepeda.com

View the entire process of making artisan nixtamalized tortillas, from corn kernel to finished product. The business also offers Mezcal tasting events by reservation. 304 S. Oak St., Lone Rock. tortilleriazepeda.com Savanna Institute: Informal hikes all day with staff, who will explain how the Savanna Institute is incorporating agroforestry into the landscape with hazelnuts and chestnuts. More in-depth tour offered at noon. E6828 Highway 60, Spring Green. savannainstitute.org

Informal hikes all day with staff, who will explain how the Savanna Institute is incorporating agroforestry into the landscape with hazelnuts and chestnuts. More in-depth tour offered at noon. E6828 Highway 60, Spring Green. savannainstitute.org Brewhaha Roasters: See the entire coffee roasting process from start to finish, and sample different roasts. 515 Rainbow Road, Spring Green. brewhaharoasters.com

See the entire coffee roasting process from start to finish, and sample different roasts. 515 Rainbow Road, Spring Green. brewhaharoasters.com Future Fruit Farm: Visit a family-owned orchard specializing in organic antique and exotic varieties of apples and pears. Orchard treats and ice cream will be available at the farm store. 5363 Knobs Road, Ridgeway. futurefruitfarm.com

Visit a family-owned orchard specializing in organic antique and exotic varieties of apples and pears. Orchard treats and ice cream will be available at the farm store. 5363 Knobs Road, Ridgeway. futurefruitfarm.com Meadowlark Mill: Join a half-hour tour at 11:30 or 1 p.m., or just stop in to meet farmers and millers at this on-farm flour mill. Freshly milled flours, baked goods, cornmeal, soups and more also for sale. 3630 Ridgevue Road, Ridgeway. meadowlarkmill.com

Twenty-three additional bakeries, farms, restaurants and specialty food stores are listed in the Savor the River Valley brochure, available at area businesses.

Maps and more information are online at www.savortherivervalley.org/events.
This artist sketch depicts Dominion Voting Systems attorney Justin Nelson, standing left, and Fox News attorney Daniel Webb, standing at right, speaking to Judge Eric Davis before finishing jury selection in Delaware Superior Court Tuesday, April 18, 2023, in Wilmington, Del. (Elizabeth Williams/AP)

WILMINGTON, Del.  Fox News agreed Tuesday to pay Dominion Voting Systems nearly $800 million to avert a trial in the voting machine companys lawsuit that would have exposed how the network promoted lies about the 2020 presidential election.

The stunning settlement emerged just as opening statements were supposed to begin, abruptly ending a case that had embarrassed Fox News over several months and raised the possibility that network founder Rupert Murdoch and stars such as Tucker Carlson and Sean Hannity would have to testify publicly.

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The truth matters. Lies have consequences, Dominion lawyer Justin Nelson told reporters outside a Delaware courthouse after Superior Court Judge Eric Davis announced the deal.

Outside of the $787.5 million promised to Colorado-based Dominion, it was unclear what other consequences Fox would face. Fox acknowledged in a statement the courts rulings finding certain claims about Dominion to be false, but no apology was offered.

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We are hopeful that our decision to resolve this dispute with Dominion amicably, instead of the acrimony of a divisive trial, allows the country to move forward from these issues, Fox said. Its lawyers and representatives offered no other comment or details about the settlement.

Asked by a reporter whether there was anything to this other than money, Dominion CEO John Poulos did not answer.

The deal is a significant amount of money even for a company the size of Fox. It represents about one-quarter of the $2.96 billion the company reported earning last year before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization  a figure often used to approximate a companys cash flow.

The settlement also follows a $965 million judgment issued against Alex Jones by a Connecticut jury in 2022 for spreading false conspiracy theories about the Sandy Hook school massacre.

Coupled with other lawsuits in the pipeline, the agreement shows there is a real financial risk for conservative media that traffic in conspiracy theories. What remains unknown is how much of a deterrent this will be. Even as the Dominion case loomed this spring, Foxs Tucker Carlson aired his alternate theories about what happened at the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection.

Dominion had sued Fox for $1.6 billion, arguing that the top-rated news outlet had damaged the companys reputation by peddling phony conspiracy theories that claimed its equipment switched votes from former President Donald Trump to Democrat Joe Biden. Davis, in an earlier ruling, said it was CRYSTAL clear that none of the allegations about Dominion aired on Fox by Trump allies were true.

Dominion set out to prove in the lawsuit that Fox acted with malice in airing allegations that it knew to be false, or with reckless disregard for the truth. It presented volumes of internal emails and text messages that showed Fox executives and personalities saying they knew the accusations were untrue, even as the falsehoods were aired on programs hosted by Maria Bartiromo, Lou Dobbs and Jeannine Pirro.

Records released as part of the lawsuit showed that Fox aired the claims in part to win back viewers who were fleeing the network after it correctly called hotly contested Arizona for Democrat Joe Biden on election night. One Fox Corp. vice president called them MIND BLOWINGLY NUTS.

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During a deposition, Murdoch testified that he believed the 2020 election was fair and had not been stolen from Trump.

Fox knew the truth, Dominion argued in court papers. It knew the allegations against Dominion were outlandish and crazy and ludicrous and nuts. Yet it used the power and influence of its platform to promote that false story.

Several First Amendment experts said Dominions case was among the strongest they had ever seen. But there was real doubt about whether Dominion would be able to prove to a jury that people in a decision-making capacity at Fox could be held responsible for the networks actions.

Dominions Nelson called the settlement a tremendous victory and noted that there are six more lawsuits pending regarding election claims.

We settled because it was about accountability, Nelson said in an interview. Our goals were to make sure that there was accountability for the lies, and to try to make our client right. And we accomplished both goals.

Its hard to tell what the deal will mean financially for Dominion. The company would not provide its most recent earnings, saying the figures were not public.

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In the weeks leading up to the trial, Davis significantly narrowed Foxs potential line of defense, including nixing the networks argument that it was merely airing newsworthy allegations. Newsworthiness is not a defense against defamation, he said.

In a March 31 ruling, he pointedly called out the network for airing falsehoods while noting that bogus election claims still persist more than two years after Trump lost his bid for reelection.

The statements at issue were dramatically different than the truth, Davis said in that ruling. In fact, although it cannot be attributed directly to Foxs statements, it is noteworthy that some Americans still believe the election was rigged.

In its defense, Fox said it was obligated to report on a president who claimed that he had been cheated out of reelection.

We never reported those to be true, Fox lawyer Erin Murphy said. All we ever did was provide viewers the true fact that these were allegations that were being made.

Dominion had sued both Fox News and its parent, Fox Corp, and said its business had been significantly damaged. Fox said the company grossly overestimated its losses, before agreeing to pay about half of what Dominion had asked for.

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In a 1964 case involving The New York Times, the U.S. Supreme Court limited the ability of public figures to sue for defamation. The court ruled that plaintiffs needed to prove that news outlets published or aired false material with actual malice  knowing such material was false or acting with a reckless disregard for whether or not it was true.

That has provided news organizations with stout protection against libel judgments. Yet the nearly six-decade legal standard has come under attack by some conservatives in recent years, including Trump and Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida, who have argued for making it easier to win a libel case.

The larger importance of the settlement ... is that the high level of protection for news media in a defamation case remains intact from now, said Doreen Weisenhaus, an instructor of media law at Northwestern University.

In documents released in recent months, Fox executives and anchors discussed how not to alienate the audience, many of whom believed Trumps claims of fraud despite no evidence to back them up. Foxs Tucker Carlson suggested a news reporter be fired for tweeting a fact check debunking the fraud claims.

Some of the exhibits were simply embarrassing, such as scornful behind-the-scenes opinions about Trump, whose supporters form the core of the networks viewers. Text exchanges revealed as part of the lawsuit show Carlson declaring, I hate him passionately, and saying that we are very, very close to being able to ignore Trump most nights.

Fox News announced the settlement on Neil Cavutos afternoon news show. Its a done deal, he said. Its a settlement and for at least Fox, it appears to be over.

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But Foxs legal problems may not be over. It still faces a defamation lawsuit from another voting technology company, Smartmatic. Its lawyer, Erik Connolly, said Tuesday that Dominions litigation exposed some of the misconduct and damage caused by Foxs disinformation campaign. Smartmatic will expose the rest. ___ Associated Press writers Jennifer Peltz in New York and Nicholas Riccardi in Denver contributed to this report.
EAU CLAIRE  Olivia Saxe listened intently as education and employer representatives told U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin, D-Madison, about their initiatives and challenges in addressing the health care workforce shortage during a roundtable discussion at Chippewa Valley Technical College last Wednesday.

When it was Saxes turn to speak, it was clear she is the perfect example of how CVTC is using grant money and other resources to fill the void.

Saxe, a junior at Mondovi High School, is taking classes to complete the pre-nursing health care academy at CVTC. She is dual enrolled in high school and college. Credits she receives when completing the academy this year will apply to the practical nursing program, of which she is enrolled for the 2023-2024 school year.

If all goes according to plan, Saxe will graduate with her technical diploma in practical nursing at the same time she receives her high school diploma.

Baldwin was impressed by Saxe and her drive, but also by what western Wisconsin technical colleges are doing to help students like Saxe, rural health care facilities and long-term care facilities facing workforce challenges.

Thats why Baldwin backed the $4.9 million Strengthening Community College Training grant from the U.S. Department of Labor that CVTC and its consortium partners received, recently.

We have desperate shortages these days of nursing professionals in hospitals, clinical and long-term care settings, Baldwin said. Theres a real opportunity with young people in the region who would love to have their careers in western Wisconsin.

But there are challenges. How do we get the skills we need? How do we pay for that? This (grant) is a win-win for the entire region, the workforce and health care.

CVTCs portion of the grant is about $1.8 million. The college plans to hire a rural outreach coordinator, a part-time virtual reality and telehealth technician and plan for instruction of more K-12 health care academies.

Sunem Beaton-Garcia, CVTC president, said its easier to affect change working together with technical college partners  Mid-State, Northwood and Western technical colleges.

We are committed to serving learners in all areas of our district to help them reach their personal and career goals, she said. We continually seek to identify those who need us the most, and this grant offers accessibility in our rural communities. We are lucky to have robust health care in western Wisconsin. These health care positions are fulfilling and well-paid with great opportunities for career advancement.

CVTC and its consortium partners will use the grant money to work on the four-year project with workforce development boards, employers and school districts.
A cybersecurity internship grant addressing the needs of the Wisconsins critical infrastructure utilities has been awarded to University of Wisconsin-Stout, a higher education leader in the field.

The $298,771 Fast Forward grant from the state Department of Workforce Development and University of Wisconsin System will provide paid industry internships to adult learners, including state university and technical college students who are seeking to enter the information technology and cybersecurity field or enhance their skillset.

Students who are unemployed, underemployed or from underrepresented groups in the field, including women and veterans, are encouraged to apply. UW-Stout has an undergraduate program in cybersecurity.

Four grants totaling $1.1 million were awarded to three UW System schools, Gov. Tony Evers and the Department of Workforce Development announced Thursday, April 13.

According to Cyber Seek, more than 1.1 million people are employed in the industry in the U.S., but there are more than 755,000 job openings, including more than 7,800 in Wisconsin. The Wisconsin shortage is despite a high average salary for an entry-level cybersecurity analyst in the state: $75,000.

The goals of the program are to increase students work-based opportunities, enhance awareness career possibilities and educational pathways in Wisconsin, and create industry connections for students and regional employers.

In addition to the work experience, interns will benefit from establishing industry connections that could lead to future job opportunities with regional employers. State companies already supporting the program include Aspirus, Dirksgroup, Malisko, Marshfield Clinic and Rockwell Automation. More companies will be recruited. The program matches students to industry mentors.

This program will benefit many students and unemployed workers who want to upskill and transition into cybersecurity, help them develop skillsets they need to be successful and inspire them to pursue a full-time profession in IT and cybersecurity, said professor Holly Yuan, grant director, program director and cybersecurity center director at UW-Stout.

The program will begin in May with 20 interns, followed by 20 more interns in late summer or fall and run through June 1, 2024.

Students can apply via a website that will be developed by UW-Stout. In the interim, interested applicants should email centerforcybersecurity@uwstout.edu. A project coordinator will be hired to coordinate the day-to-day management of the internship program and industry partner relationships.

As a polytechnic institution, it is within UW-Stouts mission for students to gain hands-on experience, said Anne Hoeltke, director of the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs. Through this grant, students will have the opportunity to gain valuable work experience and apply academic concepts in real-world settings. Employers will have the opportunity to evaluate prospective new hires, obtain fresh ideas and foster stronger relationships with UW-Stout. For these reasons, the ability to apply scholarships to internships is an easy win-win for students, employers and the university.

Yuan will work with UW-Stouts Career Services, the Cybersecurity Research and Outreach Center, and a project coordinator to administer the internship program. Career Services oversees an existing Cooperative Education and Internship Program on campus that served more than 1,100 students in 2021-22.

Interns will work a minimum of 240 hours and be paid an average of $20 an hour. They can apply for gift cards to assist with barriers for internship completion, including for transportation and gas.

The next-level goal of the grant will be to replicate UW-Stouts program across the UW System. A scalable, statewide IT and cybersecurity internship program will provide the state with a head start in the development of critical infrastructure, Yuan said. UW-Stout has been a cybersecurity higher education leader in Wisconsin since 2017, when it became the first four-year institution in the state to be designated a cybersecurity center. The designation coincided with being named a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security.

In 2022, the universitys Bachelor of Science program in cybersecurity was approved by the UW System Board of Regents. UW-Stout also offers a minor, two certificates and two concentrations related to cybersecurity.

Fast Forward grants

Gov. Evers believes the grants will serve state workforce needs.

Our UW System is a major economic driver in our state and a critical resource for building our states next-generation workforce. These grants will help students earn while they learn, ensuring greater access and opportunities for our home-grown talent to start growing their careers right here in Wisconsin, Evers said in the news release.

DWD is proud to support innovative internship opportunities for Wisconsin students through our strong partnership with the UW System. Students who intern for a Wisconsin company are more likely to stay in the state after graduation, making internships a valuable workforce retention strategy, said Amy Pechacek, DWD secretary.

We continue to identify new ways to build Wisconsins next generation workforce, providing job-seekers with skills in high-demand fields and employers with high-skill job-seekers.

The Wisconsin Fast Forward program expands employment opportunities and delivers return on investment for employers. Through myriad endeavors, the program supports Wisconsins economy and workforce.

As Wisconsins talent generator, we educate students to think critically while they also learn valuable skills needed in the workforce, said UW System President Jay Rothman. These internships will help students kick-start their careers while meeting employer demand for talent.
One of the owners of a Trempealeau County timber company has been ordered to pay more than $1.1 million in restitution to foreign workers after he was found guilty of illegally placing foreign workers and lying to federal officials.

Alfredo Aguilar, 52, pleaded guilty to related charges in January and was sentenced to 18 months in prison Monday. The Bruce resident co-owned the Wisconsin timber company Northwoods Forestry Inc. with his wife, Patricia Aguilar.

According to a press release from the U.S. Attorney Timothy OSheas office, Aguilar has paid the restitution money to the foreign workers and another $210,000 in fines associated with the case.

According to court records, between 2015 and the end of 2018, Aguilar recruited workers from Mexico and Central America to work in forestry through the H-2B work visa program. The program allows American employers to hire temporary workers from overseas to perform labor as long as the labor addresses one-time, seasonal, intermittent or peak needs.

However, Aguilar placed Northwoods Forestry foreign workers with non-forestry employers in industries such as meat packing, roofing, agriculture, construction, painting and fur processing.

Aguilar admitted to officials that he placed Northwoods Forestry foreign employees in positions he knew they were not legally authorized to work. Aguilar also admitted that Northwoods Forestry did not pay the workers the highest applicable wages and did not pay the workers overtime.

Aguilar failed to pay the required prevailing wages to the foreign workers he employed, said Irene Lindow, special agent-in-charge, Great Lakes Region, U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General.

Todays sentencing is an affirmation of our efforts, along with those of our law enforcement partners and the U.S. Department of Labors Wage and Hour Division, to pursue individuals who abuse the H-2B program for financial gain, Lindow said.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, 263 workers were victimized by the scheme.
BEAR CREEK

It was an exciting weekend for the Prielipp/Olsen family. Saturday Darrell and Sheila Priellipp Dan and Mary Prielipp, Duane and Becky Prielipp and Kylie, Ken and Sue Olsen, Marty Waltemath and Julie Greenheck went to Peoria, Illinois, to watch Connor Prielipp, who pitches for the Minnesota Twins organization. There were games on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and Connors team won all three games. What an exciting time. Congratulations, Connor.

Ken and Sue stopped in Illinois on Sunday on the way home and visited Emil Luseman.

Bonnie Hedding and house guests Joey and Jodi Mosher from Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, were Easter Sunday guests of Ken and Colleen Bolchen in New Lisbon.

Ken and Sue Olsen visited Chuck and Kim Zimmernan in Edgerton and had Easter dinner with them.

Randy and Alicia Waltemath from Wyeville visited Bonnie Hedding on Sunday evening.

Hope everyone had a nice Easter.

SOUTH SIDE

(Week of April 10)

Why am I working today? My calendar says its Easter Monday, and that sounds like a holiday. At least I can continue to eat my Easter candy, but does that mean I have to quit eating it tomorrow? Just a bit of foolishness to begin the column this week. The neighbors have had some activity as well as a blessed Resurrection Day so read on.

The next door neighbors to the east were up at Tabor Bar & Grill Wednesday and Steve Schumann with foster son and daughter Scott and Bryana enjoyed a good meal. On Easter they were back for the holiday meal and foster mom Deb Wood served them at both visits.

Here in the middle of the valley, I worked at the election for the town of Glendale on Tuesday with Carol Bradley, Sally Dana and Eileen Richie. The next day Christopher Young and son Kit joined me for supper at Tabor Bar & Grill. Sunday after church Christopher and I joined Tommy Rafajko and Raye and Marie Walz for the Easter feast at Flippys Bar & Grill in Kendall, then Christopher and I were invited to the Walz home for dessert and fellowship.

Kurt and Catherine Garvens of Hollandale arrived Saturday to spend the holiday weekend with parents Ron and Arlene Garvens. Sunday they were among the folks at Flippys Easter banquet.

Monday, Lynette Vlasak and Sally Dana made their first trip this season to American Family Field to see the Brewers win 10-0. Tuesday, Sally was working at the polls, and the next day the gals lunched at Tabor Bar & Grill. Thursday, they ate at the Senior Dining Center in Kendall, and Sally attended St. Johns Ladies Aid while Lynette went to work at the Kendall Public Library. On Saturday, they had coffee with Connie Dorow in Hillsboro, and on Easter it was down to Johnnycake Hollow for dinner at The Ranch with Lowell and Arlys Zellmer, Allan and Heather Vlasak, Chip and Mary Marty and kids, Lisa Goostree of Baraboo and Mariane Weidenbach from Viroqua.

Sunday morning Christians celebrated the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and the angel from heaven appeared to Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Salome at the open tomb in Matthew chapter 28. The angel told them to go to Jesus disciples and tell them to go into Galilee where he will be. The women reported this as instructed and they met Jesus in verse 9. We serve a risen savior, hes in the world today and he lives in the hearts of all who believe in him. Hallelujah! What a savior! Amen.

(Week of April 17)

Winter has returned. The calendar got mixed up and forgot to give us the March snowstorms that we usually top off the winter with and saved it for the middle of April. Do you ever remember having this much snow on the 16th of April? If April showers bring May flowers, what will snow showers bring? I guess well just have to wait a couple of weeks to find out.

Last Monday I got another year older, and Christopher Young and son Kit joined me for supper at Tabor Bar & Grill followed by birthday cake at their home. Wednesday, 19 Hill Country Belles Red Hats met at the Dorset Valley Schoolhouse Restaurant for our April get together. Friday evening Christopher and I enjoyed pizza at the Elroy Eatery and on Sunday joined some church friends for breakfast buffet at Flippys Bar & Grill in Kendall before going over to St. Pauls Lutheran Church in Wilton to pick up drive by chicken dinners for supper. Not a whole lot of cooking going on in my house last week.

Last Tuesday, Arlene Garvens met with her sewing group at KTY Jun Quilt Guild in the Mauston Methodist Church. Wednesday evening she and Ron were at the Tomah Concert Associations program.

Lynette Vlasak attended her last meeting of the Monroe County Librarians at the Norwalk Public Library. She will be retiring from the Kendall Public Library at the end of this month. She and Sally Dana enjoyed the Red Hats meeting on Wednesday and on Saturday they were in Tomah shopping and had take out dinner from the Peking Chinese Restaurant. Sunday, the gals picked up chicken dinners for Allan and Heather Vlasak along with their own meals. Why cook when there are so many other good options available?

As I look out my window this Monday morning and see the snow falling, adding to the white landscape just as the world was putting on its spring green finery, I think how blessed we are to be able to live in this climate and experience these events, which will live in our memories when we think back on the spring of 2023. In our daily walk with Jesus there is so much to be thankful for and praise him for in our times of crises as well as during the good times. Amen.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, April 22, 2023 at the Middle Coon Valley Lutheran Church, rural Chaseburg, with military honors following. A visitation will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, April 21 at the Seland Funeral Home in Coon Valley.
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The death of Mahsa Amini at the hands of morality police last fall drew global attention to the plight of Iranian women, leading to the defiant removal of hijabs in a show of feminism.

Amini, who was Kurdish Iranian, died Sept. 16, 2022, after being detained for wearing her head scarf in a fashion that allegedly exposed some of her hair, against the government dress code. Her beating sparked outrage, yet Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has maintained the hijab is a religious necessity and a legal matter that women must adhere to.

An opinion article published in the Washington Post two weeks after Aminis death by Ira-nian American journalist Masih Alinejad and titled Women are leading a revolution in Iran. When will Western feminists help? sparked American Association of University Women La Crosse board member Erica Koonmen to ponder What can we, in a fairly small Midwestern town, possibly do to show these women that they are not alone?

Explained Koonmen: Women are leading the new popular uprising against one of the main pillars of the Islamic Republic of Iran: compulsory hijab. They are facing guns and bullets and demanding an end to a system of gender apartheid.  Alinejad (took) Western feminists to task for failing to show support for both the women in Iran and in Afghanistan, also fighting for basic rights.

The call for allyship led the association, in partnership with the diversity, equity and inclusion programs at Western Technical College and Viterbo University and UW-La Crosses Racial, Gender and Sexuality Department, to form the Women Supporting Women Globally initiative. A series of programs to raise awareness and show solidarity with the women and girls of Iran and Afghanistan, the initiative kicked off last month with a screening of Persepolis and will continue Thursday with a talk by UW-L assistant professor Sona Kazemi.

If you go What: Understanding Iran's Feminist Revolution When: 6 p.m. Thursday, April 20 Where: UW-L Centennial Hall room 1309 Cost: Free

At 6 p.m. April 20, Kazemi will present Understanding Irans Feminist Revolution, discussing the oppression she experienced during her childhood and teen years in Iran, her ongoing advocacy, and why the support of individuals worldwide is needed to help overthrow the Islamic state so Iranians can build democracy and gender equality for themselves.

Raised in Iran

Kazemi was raised in the Islamic Republic, a gender apartheid state where girls and women were treated as less than human, Kazemi said.

One way in which the state does that is by using the veil, the hijab, said Kazemi. Hijab is not just a piece of fabric in Iran  its a social marker that you are a second-class citizen.

When Kazemi started school, she was required to wear a hijab, and while she didnt realize its meaning at the time, she recognized only the girls had to be covered. At age 14, Kazemi was walking when three people jumped out of a mini-bus, took hold of her and shoved her in the vehicle.

I knew at that time it was the morality police, Kazemi said. Mahsa Amini was grabbed and killed in a detention center. I am amplifying her voice because I could have been her. I want to acknowledge the fact that every woman is in danger of dying at the hands of the morality police every day in Iran. Its not the odd occurrence.

Kazemi was held at what translates to a center for the fight against political corruption for seven hours, without food or access to a bathroom. After convincing the guards to give her a list of phone numbers for the families of those detained, she called each contact. Kazemis dad was the one to pick her up, and he blamed me for being arrested.

Hes an open-minded person and he knew what happened to me was terrible, Kazemi said. But at the same time, he was trying to tell me that if I had covered myself better, this wouldnt have happened to me. But there were women who were arrested with me that were so covered you couldnt even see a strand of hair. So it makes me so mad when people say Mahsa Amini was arrested for bad veiling. No, Mahsa Amini was arrested for being a woman. And thats the mistake that people make.

Kazemi escaped as soon as she could, moving to Canada for college before coming to the U.S. for post-doctoral fellowships in Ohio and online. In early 2023, she accepted a job teaching race, gender and sexuality studies at UW-L.

Working in academia, Kazemi said she has struggled with feeling marginalized even among progressive circles, with opposition to the Islamic Republic perceived as spreading Islamophobia.

Middle Eastern or Iranian women are seen as Muslim women, which is a very strange category. We never call women in America Christian women or people in Burma Buddhist women. But for some reason, when it comes to the Middle East, we stick to this very bizarre category that doesnt have any wiggle room in it for any type of opposing politics or contradictions, said Kazemi.

A letter Kazemi sent to the National Womens Studies Association, asking for a statement of allyship with the women of Iran, was not acted on by the organization, Kazemi said, which was of great disappointment to her. Learning the American Association for University Women had in January drafted a resolution in support of women worldwide, especially those in Iran and Iraq, blew her away.

With all the years that I have felt so lonely in academia, I suddenly felt extremely supported, said Kazemi. As soon as I got here, they told me about the statement and they invited me to give the talk, which I gladly accepted.

Support overseas

Over the years, Kazemi has been active transnationally in womens rights and disability rights, working with Iranian women and men who survived acid attacks, torture or political imprisonment. Efforts included providing counseling and securing resources for the victims. She has been highlighting the uprising against the hijab, stressing the fabric is not about culture but a form of abuse and oppression, further evidenced by the reaction of Irans leadership. Officials have been trying to reign in the protests through often violent and even deadly measures, with thousands arrested and more than 500 killed.

Yet the resistance remains strong, and males have been a surprising source of support.

Men have been very good allies in the most recent uprisings, said Kazemi. They are questioning the patriarchy, which is huge.

Kazemi considers herself a voice in exile, forced out of her home country due to its dictatorship and now working to amplify the voices inside Iran and tell the world what they are going through and about their bravery. She is calling on individuals nationwide, and the La Crosse community, to stand in solidarity, noting, What we want in Iran and all over the Middle East is what women want in the U.S. too.

The patriarchy is universal, and we are struggling for the rights over bodies, our minds and our lives, said Kazemy. Roe v. Wade should prove to us that we can easily go back in history if we are not careful.

The Islamic Republic is not just the enemy of women of Iran, Kazemi says, but the enemy of everyone. She encourages people to become involved by urging government representatives not to support a resurrection of the stalled multi-billion dollar Iran nuclear deal or other negotiations.

They can ask them to not recognize the legitimacy of the Islamic Republic as a representative government because it doesnt represent us. It doesnt represent women. It doesnt deserve a table at the United Nations, said Kazemi.

She encourages following the accounts of activists in Iran and to seek out reliable news sources, noting, Pay attention to the slogans that people are saying in Iran. Are they chanting death to America? Never. Are they chanting death to the Islamic state? Always.

Iterated Kazemi, When I ask for solidarity, Im not asking for bombs or an invasion or a war. What Im asking is to hear our voices and do not save the Islamic Republic. We dont want saving. We can save ourselves. But the Islamic Republic needs the worlds recognition to stay as a state. We want you to be our voices so we can emancipate ourselves.
The defrocked Roman Catholic cardinal who became the face of the churchs clergy sex abuse crisis has been charged in Wisconsin with sexually assaulting an 18-year-old man more than 45 years ago, court records show.

A criminal complaint filed Friday alleges that Theodore McCarrick, who was removed from the priesthood in 2019 after a Vatican investigation found he had sexually molested adults and children, fondled a man in 1977 while staying at a cabin on Geneva Lake in southeastern Wisconsin.

The alleged victim, who is not named, told investigators that McCarrick had repeatedly sexually assaulted him since he was 11 and even brought him to parties where other adult men sexually assaulted him, according to the complaint.

McCarrick became the highest-ranking Roman Catholic official in the U.S. to face criminal charges for sexual abuse when he was accused in 2021 of sexually assaulting a teenage boy in Massachusetts at a wedding reception in 1974. His attorneys asked the judge in that case earlier this year to dismiss the charges, saying that McCarrick, now 92 and suffering from dementia, is not competent to stand trial.

The once-powerful priest was ordained in 1958 and became archbishop in Newark, New Jersey, in 1986 and then archbishop of Washington, D.C., in 2000. He rose to power despite church officials knowledge of accusations against him. A two-year Vatican investigation into McCarricks tenure found credible reports of his problematic behavior dating back to 1999, including an inquiry confirming that McCarrick had slept with seminarians.

The church has confirmed it made financial settlements with adults who accused McCarrick of sexual misconduct. McCarrick retired in 2006 but continued to be active in political circles until he was defrocked by Pope Francis in 2019.

Wisconsin prosecutors learned of the alleged 1977 assault through the Attorney Generals Clergy and Faith Leader Abuse initiative, a program dedicated to prosecuting instances of abuse by faith leaders, according to a news release. Officials were able to charge McCarrick because the statute of limitations does not apply to people who are not residents of the state. A similar law allowed Massachusetts prosecutors to bring their case against McCarrick more than 40 years later.

McCarricks attorney in Massachusetts, William Fick, did not immediately return a phone call or email sent Monday. An attorney for McCarrick has not yet been listed in the Wisconsin case.

Registered child sex offenders in Dane County Addy, Keith M Aikens, Aaron J Andaverde, Rodolfo Anderson, Thomas H Babcock, Jay A Bagneski, Jeffrey H Banks, Dennis D Banuelos, Evelio Baumgartner, Michael A Beierle, Christopher A Belling, Richard A Black, Michael L Blue, Roscoe L Bohn, Andrew J Booker, Derrick J Borka, Thomas A Bradley, Colin M Brien, Ty B Brooks, Jonquil J Brown, John F Brown, Kenton E Buchino, Jacob M Buhler, Adam L Bunnell, John R Burdick, Kyle D Burns, Bruce E Burns, Michael D Capps, Robert J Carter, Javontae D Chestnut, Dean Chvala, Charles F Comello, Richard E Conklin, Bruce B Conroy, Michael B Cosme, Lloyd M Cox, Joshua M Cramer, David L Crass, Joshua Daniel Curry, John M Delacruz-Aguero, Faustino Delao, Manuel R Dickert, Alexander T Douglas, Marcel Drabek, Joshua P Dybevik, Todd P Dydyn, Michael Benjamin Dye, Eric J Eagen, Robert T Ellsworth, Michael B Elsner, Michael Erickson, Jesse L Erickson, Zachary S Evenson, Robert J Faust, Larry W Fenske, Jason E Ferro, Hudson D Finch, Brandon A Folts, Brandon E Forqurean, Patrick T Forsythe, Thomas J Fountain, Timothy M Frausto, Manuel Villarreal Freeman, Jeffrey S Frills, Vernon L Frye, Terry L Sr Galston, Troy M Gassen, Nathan A Gatling, Patrick S Gaugert, Billy Jo Gilbert, Jeffery Gillaum, Anthony D Gillaum, Larry D Gillespie, James A Gintowt, Daniel C Gordon, John T Green, Matthew E Griffin, Walter J Hagberg, Timothy C Hairston, Jason L Hanson, Robin D Harris, Nakim E Haslett, Emmanuel M Hernandez-Lopez, Abel Hilleshiem, Jan A Hirsch, Anthony J Hobbs, Jeremy W Holmes, Brian V Holmstrom, Daniel E Holtan, Matthew Horton, James M Horton, Nathaniel R Hunter, Joel M Husband, Pierre Hutchins, Spencer L Israelstam, David M Jackson, Amar D Jespersen, Paul R B Jessick, Brandon Johnson, Frederic E Jr Johnson, Haji J Johnson, Joseph C Johnson, Marcus L Johnson, Thomas R Jones, Dquann R Jones, Jacob B Jones, Terrence L Juarez, Gregorio Karnga, Trokon I Kendall, Benjie L Keodouangsy, Micknvgm M Klapps, Benjamin J Knutson, Jeffrey Kolman, Shelby K Kornacki, Michael T Kosinski, Daniel S Kudingo, Anthony T Kvalo, Jacob S Lafavor, Jason P Lagally, Karsten S Landers, Christopher M Lange, Walter J Lawrence, Michael Lentz, Mark A Leroy, William R Lewis, Stanley Lovell, David L Lucas, Phillip E Lucas, Reconald D Macartney, Cody J Mack, David L Mackesey, Michael R Malone, Martez M Matousek, Craig Mccune, Douglas M Mckay, Darryl Mckinzy, Terry D Mcnabney, Kyle S Mcquillen, Nathan A Medina Lopez, Elimelec Meseberg, Michael T Miller, David L Moore, Rodney C Moreno, Juan G Mouth, Rodney M Munoz, Cody A Myers, David C Nafzger, James A Nelson, Eric F Nelson, Mathew D Nelson, Ricky A Sr Nienhaus, Pierce B Norsetter-Shiner, Michael A Noyes, Randy R Olsen, Hans H Olson, Larry W Ossmann, Chad C Ostern, Gregory S Pagel, James M Phillips, Morrise Pierce, Rick C Pillar, Erik Daniel Pineda, Alfredo Pirk, Leslie M Potenberg, Richard A Praedel, David G Preston, Chester J Qualmann, Justin M Raisbeck, John C Rasmussen, Matthew J Rave, Francis P Revels, William J Richmond, Billy N Rigby, Jonathon S Ristau, Stacey E Rivera, Aristides Roder, Dale Rodriguez, Antonio G Rodriguez, Kevin Rojas-Laguna, Jose Rose, Andrew L Rose, Doran R Ruiz, Armando L Sabel, Thomas J Sallay, Carlos B Schielzeth, Joel S Schindel, Joshua A Schmidt, Andrew R Schneider, Joseph R Scott, Jerod Selkurt, Scott A Shelton, Tyler Shields, Cortez W Shoulders, Jamarious M Shy, Kirk L Simpson, Steven B Singleton, Marcus O Smith, Michael M Sorenson, Kristi L Stadelmayer, David R Steinhorst, Gregory R Strom, David R Suttles, James E Swift, Jarvis M Swisher, Richard W Szudy, Matthew J Tanon, Miguel A Teed, Kevin W Tengowski, Myron Sr Tessmann, Cody A Thelen, Thomas L Tuckwood, Andrew James Turner, Berlin Ujke, Joshua M Urrea, Noe Vanderscheuren, Anthony P Vang, Sai Vega Hernandez, Cesar Vosen, Jeremy P Walker, Jimmie T Warren, Ricky L Jr Wasley, Richard Webb, Devon A Weiss, Mark E West, Mark A Westendorf, Theodore John White, David B Will, Gary A Williams, Corwin K Williams, Dewy Wayne Williams, Lamar Williams, Richard D Williams, Willie L Winch, James T Yoder, Isaac Young, Steven R Zimmerman, John F Zobjeck, James L
Republicans on the Legislatures budget committee voted Tuesday to kill funding for the largest proposed land conservation project in Wisconsin history over concerns about the $15 million purchase of 56,000 acres of forest land that would have been open to both logging and recreational use.

Republican lawmakers objected in November to using $4 million from the states Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program to help finance the purchase of the property east of Rhinelander in northern Wisconsin known as the Pelican River Forest. The rest of the funding for the conservation easement would come from a federal grant.

Efforts to address lawmakers concerns since objections were raised were unsuccessful, Sen. Mary Felzkowski, one of the Republicans who objected to the project, said Tuesday. She was among the 12 Republicans on the Legislatures Joint Finance Committee who voted to kill the project, while all four Democrats voted to fund it.

Felzkowski raised concerns about what effect it would have on northern Wisconsins economy to remove that much land from future potential development. Republicans have long raised concerns about taking blocks of private land off the tax rolls through the states stewardship program.

Enough is enough, Felzkowski said Tuesday.

Felzkowski faulted advocates of the project for not addressing complaints by snowmobilers, local communities and others who would be affected by the project. Felzkowski accused the state Natural Resources Board of voting to approve the project after local communities said they wanted some of the land available for future development.

Republican Rep. Mark Born, co-chair of the budget committee, said the state Department of Natural Resources should be ashamed for what they did on this. He accused the agency of attempting to shove this down the throat of locals and pretending like there were no concerns about the project.

A spokesperson for the agency did not immediately respond to a request for comment in reaction to the committees actions and Borns accusations.

Under the committees process, lawmakers can object to funding a project in secret. The objection triggers a meeting to review the project, but projects can be left in limbo and effectively killed with long delays before a meeting is called.

Felzkowski previously came forward as one of those who objected, and on Tuesday committee co-chair Sen. Howard Marklein said he was another.

Democratic Rep. Evan Goyke said he was thankful for the discussion about the project in the open, calling it a little bit of sunshine.

But Born discounted that, saying concerns about the project have been publicly reported for months.

This wasnt like I needed to have some secret code to find this information, he said.

The Conservation Fund, a Virginia-based national land conservation group, bought the land that includes 16 parcels located mostly east of Rhinelander in Oneida County, but also in Forest and Langlade counties. The land straddles the Great Lakes and Mississippi River watersheds and is a link between the Oneida County Forest and Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest.

The Conservation Fund said at the time it bought the land in 2021 that it will protect wildlife habitat while continuing sustainable timber harvesting as well as recreational uses such as hunting and fishing.

Under the states purchase plan, the land would have been left in an undeveloped state with public access for hunting, fishing, trapping and motorized recreation, such as snowmobiles and four-wheelers.

Its unclear what Tuesdays action means for the future of the project.

State officials have previously raised the possibility of launching a fundraising campaign or seeking landowner donations to come up with enough money to match the $10 million federal grant. The Conservation Fund has also said it may sell the property if the DNR cant secure funding for the project.

Clint Miller, central Midwest regional director at The Conservation Fund, said the decision not to fund the project was disappointing, but he pledged to continue working with the state to complete it.

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Wisconsins progressive income tax system would be consolidated until the states lowest earners pay nothing in income taxes and all other residents are subject to a 4.5% tax rate, under a GOP-authored proposal introduced this week.

The latest tax cut proposal comes as lawmakers approach the busiest weeks of the states biennial budget process. Legislators have a roughly $7 billion projected surplus at their disposal, with a good portion of that consisting of one-time funds.

The bill, introduced by Reps. John Macco, R-Ledgeview, and Jerry OConnor, R-Fond du Lac, would implement a multiyear plan to reduce the rates for the states four income tax brackets. Under the proposed new tax code, earners in the lowest bracket  individuals earning less than $13,810 per year or married filers earning less than about $18,400  would pay no income taxes, while all other earners would pay a 4.5% income tax regardless of income.

Macco, who chairs the Assembly Committee on Ways and Means, said the proposal is designed to make Wisconsins income tax code fair, low and simple. He said the end result would essentially be a hybrid flat tax that he hopes can secure approval from not only Democratic Gov. Tony Evers, who has pledged to veto a flat tax, but also his Republican colleagues.

Everybody pays less, nobody pays more, Macco said Tuesday. Were not shifting the burden from one side to the other.

Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, R-Rochester, told reporters Tuesday that Assembly Republicans have had almost no caucus discussions on income tax cuts, though he reiterated that GOP lawmakers remain focused on a broad tax cut, preferably one that moves closer to a flat income tax.

Im not so certain that his plan in the end will be the one that we adopt, but the idea of having a flatter tax code is one I think were all in favor of, Vos said of Maccos proposal.

Reduced collections

Under the bill, all four of Wisconsins income tax brackets would be reduced starting with the 2024 tax year. After the first tax cut, four subsequent reductions would only occur if state general fund collections exceed expenditures.

Essentially what this would do is provide for a tax cut for all filers with a current tax liability, said Jason Stein, research director with the Wisconsin Policy Forum, a nonpartisan organization that doesnt endorse specific policies.

That said, there would still be a significant decrease at the upper end because youd still be dropping more than 3 percentage points on the rate that applies to the income in the highest bracket, Stein said.

The bill is estimated to reduce state income tax collections by more than $3.5 billion annually once fully phased in, according to a fiscal estimate from the nonpartisan Legislative Fiscal Bureau.

Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle have said the states unprecedented surplus opens the door to some form of tax cut. However, Evers and Republicans who control the Legislature have so far failed to reach an agreement on the matter.

With the record budget surplus, taxpayers are expecting tax relief from this session, OConnor said in a statement. This longer-term plan is fair, especially considering how Wisconsin stacks up against competing states, including those with no state income tax. This bill brings justified tax relief to all taxpayers.

Varying rates

The states current lowest tax rate is 3.54%, which applies to individuals earning less than $13,810 per year or married filers earning less than about $18,400. Wisconsins top tax rate of 7.65% applies to individuals earning more than $304,000 or married filers earning more than about $405,500.

About 97% of Wisconsin taxpayers paid 5.3% or less in 2021, according to the state Department of Revenue. Just 3% of filers were in the highest tax bracket.

Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu, R-Oostburg, has already proposed shifting the state to a 3.25% flat income tax, a change Evers has already promised to veto if sent to his desk. Evers has called for a 10% tax cut for individuals earning $100,000 or less a year and married filers making $150,000 or less.

Evers office did not respond to a request for comment, while LeMahieus spokesperson Michael Pyritz said Tuesday the Senate majority leader had not yet reviewed the Macco-OConnor bill.

A recent Wisconsin Policy Forum report found LeMahieus proposal would give an average annual tax cut of more than $100,000 to Wisconsinites who earn more than $1 million. Under Evers proposal, those same earners would see an average annual tax increase of almost $40,000.

Flat tax

While Evers has sought to direct tax cuts primarily to low- and middle-income earners, Republicans have largely focused on a flat income tax, which supporters say would make Wisconsin more competitive with neighboring states.

A report by University of Tennessee economist Don Bruce for the conservative Badger Institute estimated that, by moving to a 5.1% flat income tax, Wisconsin would see an estimated $7.2 billion increase in economic output and 24,000 new jobs.

The Republican co-chairs of the states powerful budget committee have already signaled a 3.25% flat income tax is unlikely to be included in the states next two-year spending plan.

Michigan and Illinois have flat individual income taxes of 4.25% and 4.95%, respectively. Minnesotas top rate is 9.85% for individuals making more than $171,000 and married filers earning more than about $285,000, while Iowas top tax rate is 8.53% for individuals and married filers making more than $78,435. Iowas Republican Gov. Kim Reynolds last year signed into law a 3.9% flat tax, which will go into effect in 2026.

Wisconsins current budget, drafted by Republicans and signed by Evers in 2021, included more than $1 billion in income tax cuts.
An extra-alarm fire at a pallet yard Monday in the Little Village neighborhood was at least the third serious fire at the West Side operation since 2014.

Firefighters responded to a lumber fire at a pallet plant shortly after 8 p.m. Monday in the 2500 block of West 25th Street. A 2-11 alarm was called at the pallet plant a short time later, fire officials said.

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The windy conditions Monday made extinguishing the blaze difficult so fire officials called a foam unit to the scene to help choke oxygen to stack pallets which continue to burn at 25th and Rockwell streets.

The fire was struck out but crews remained on the sceneand no injuries were reported. The cause was undetermined, officials said.

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In 2016, two firefighters were injured fighting a blaze at the same location. One business was considered a total loss, and at least one other business was damaged in a fire that started about 3:15 a.m. in the 2500 block of West 26th Street, fire officials said.

In 2014, a fire at the same location destroyed three buildings and at least half a dozen semis. Thousands of wooden pallets were ablaze and smoke reportedly was seen from the Circle Exchange downtown.
Two Iowa teenagers admitted helping ambush and kill their high school Spanish teacher who was beaten to death in a park with a baseball bat. Both pleaded guilty Tuesday to first degree murder.

Prosecutors said Willard Miller and Jeremy Goodale carried out the 2021 attack on Nohema Graber because of a bad grade she had given Miller. The two were 16 at the time.

Evidence shows both Miller and Goodale struck the 66-year-old teacher while she was taking her regular after-school walk, prosecutors say. Miller admitted helping plan and carry out the killing but denied ever hitting Graber. Goodale testified that Miller initiated the plan to kill Graber and each of them struck her.

The Fairfield High School teacher's body was found hidden in the park under a tarp, wheelbarrow and railroad ties. The town of Fairfield is home to some 9,400 people and is around 100 miles (160 kilometers) southeast of Des Moines.

As part of an agreement with Miller, prosecutors will recommend a sentence between 30 years and life in prison, with the possibility of parole. For Goodale, prosecutors said they'll recommend a sentence between 25 years and life with the possibility of parole.

Goodale testified that they planned the killing for about two weeks, after Miller recruited him to help. Goodale had previously agreed to testify against Miller at his trial, which was expected to begin later this week.

"On Nov. 2 of 2021, I met Willard Miller at Chautauqua Park, and I understood that he had intent to kill Mrs. Graber, Goodale said as he entered his plea. He said Miller brought a bat among other supplies to go through with the murder.

After he had struck Nohema Graber, he then moved her off of the trail where I then struck her and she died as a result, Goodale said. Afterwards, we removed any evidence that we could.

The two were charged as adults because of the severity of the crime, but they werent subject to a mandatory sentence of life without parole because they were 16. Willard is now 17 and Goodale is 18.

Investigators have said that Miller met with Graber at the high school on the afternoon of Nov. 2, 2021, to discuss his poor grade in her class. Graber later drove her van to a park where she was known to take walks after work, authorities say. Witnesses saw her van leaving the park less than an hour later with two males in the front seat.

The van was left abandoned at the end of a rural road. After getting a phone call from Goodale, a witness later picked up Goodale and Miller as they walked to town on that road, investigators say.

Goodale and Miller were initially detained after a witness provided police with photos of a Snapchat conversation in which Goodale allegedly implicated himself and Miller in the killing.

In a police interview, Miller described the frustrations he had with the way Graber taught Spanish and how the grade in her class was lowering his GPA.

This story has been updated to correct Goodale's age to 18, not 17.
The 155 mm howitzer round is one of the most requested artillery rounds of the Ukraine war. Already the U.S. has shipped more than 1.5 million
MILWAUKEE (AP)  A judge found a man accused of opening fire inside a Milwaukee police precinct station not criminally responsible Monday.

Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge David Feiss found Darreon Parker-Bell, 24, not criminally responsible by reason of mental disease or defect on four counts of recklessly endangering safety with use of a dangerous weapon.

Three doctors who examined Parker-Bell since the February 2022 incident determined Parker-Bell suffered from a mental illness that prevented him from controlling his conduct. One doctor indicated Parker-Bell was experiencing severe despair and depression at time of the shooting, and the other doctors had similar findings.

No one at the precinct station was struck by gunfire from Parker-Bell or an officer who returned fire.

The state has asked that Parker-Bell be committed into Wisconsin Department of Health Services custody for 25 to 30 years, but the defense opposes that, so no decision on the matter was made Monday.

Parker-Bell told investigators he fired shots at officers inside the building last year because he was upset over the overdose death in custody days earlier of a friend, Keishon Thomas. Two officers are charged in that case with felony abuse of a person in custody and misdemeanor misconduct in office.

Parker-Bells trial on the charges was scheduled to start Monday.
Christiana Trapani knew within a week or so how popular the sale was of her candles to benefit the people of Ukraine.

But on Wednesday, she received further confirmation.

Her Door County Candle Company has surpassed $1 million in donations with the sale of more than 100,000 blue and yellow candles in 16 ounce jars since the start of the war in February 2022.

Trapani initially thought it would be a weekend project and a few weeks later thought maybe 5,000 candles would be a modest goal. Now she says the candle will be a mainstay and even after the war's conclusion, will continue to be sold to help the country rebuild.

"It's such a huge milestone and we're obviously really proud of that," Trapani said Monday by phone. "I never, ever, in my wildest dreams ever thought this would happen."

Trapani, whose maiden name is Gorchynski and who has family and friends in Ukraine, will be in Madison on Tuesday when she meets with the legislators and speaks at the State Capitol.

Since launching the campaign, in which all profits from the $30 candles go to Razom, a nonprofit formed in 2014 to help the people of Ukraine, Trapani has had to upgrade her shop, located along Highway 42 just north of Sturgeon bay in the hamlet of Carlsville.

Machines have broken from overuse, pouring tables have been added to keep up with the demand and there was an expansion to provide more space for storage and shipping. She's added more employees, while a team of volunteers over the past year have put in a collective 200,000 hours to help the cause.

When Trapani, 29, bought the business eight months before the war, it was making about 15,000 candles a year. But her business model has been drastically altered. In addition, she and her husband recently won $1.3 million on the NBC game show "The Wall," which will further support Door County Candle's philanthropic mission.

The proceeds from the candles have been used to buy medical supplies, generators and to help families evacuate. The candles have been purchased by people from around the country and even the world.

"It's totally going to boots on the ground and aid for people who in Ukraine and experiencing firsthand the war," Trapani said. "That one candle, plus another one candle, plus another one candle is what got us to our goal and it just shows that one person should never think they can't make a difference."
KYIV, Ukraine (AP)  Russian President Vladimir Putin visited command posts of his forces fighting in Ukraine for the second time in two months, officials said Tuesday, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made his latest trip near the front line.

The visits  on different days and in different provinces  sought to stiffen the resolve of soldiers as the war approaches its 14th month and as Kyiv readies a possible counteroffensive with Western-supplied weapons.

Some of the most significant of those weapons appeared to have recently arrived in Ukraine. Germany's official federal government website on Tuesday listed a Patriot surface-to-air guided missile system as among the military items delivered within the past week to Ukraine.

Ukraine has been pressing for Patriots and other air defense systems from its allies for months, and Germany's appeared to be the first to have arrived. Ukrainian air force spokesman Yurii Ihnat declined to confirm Tuesday that a Patriot is in Ukraine, local media outlet RBC-Ukraine reported, while stating that receiving the missiles would be a landmark event, allowing Ukrainians to knock down Russian targets at a greater distance.

Elsewhere, Kremlin video showed Putin arriving by helicopter at the command post of Russian forces in southern Ukraine's Kherson province, then flying to the headquarters of the Russian National Guard in Luhansk province, in the country's east. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the visits took place Monday.

Dressed in a dark suit, Putin attended briefings with his military brass on both of his stops. The locations of the military headquarters werent disclosed, making it impossible to assess how close they were to the front line. Nor was it possible independently to verify the video's authenticity.

On Tuesday, Zelenskyy made his latest trip to visit units in Avdiivka, an eastern city in Donetsk province where fierce battles are taking place. He heard first-hand reports about fighting and handed out awards.

Zelenskyys visits to areas feeling the brunt of Russias full-scale invasion gathered pace last month as he shuttled across the country, often by train. As with Putin, the Ukrainian president's wartime trips usually arent publicized until afterward.

While official coverage of Putin's trip showed him in mostly formal and ceremonious settings, Zelenskyy's office issued photos showing the Ukrainian president taking selfies with soldiers, eating cake with them and drinking out of paper cups.

Russias war in Ukraine has become largely deadlocked, with heavy fighting in the east, particularly around the Donestk province city of Bakhmut, which for 8 months has seen the longest and bloodiest battle so far.

Russia illegally annexed Kherson, Luhansk, Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia provinces in September, following local referendums that Ukraine and the West denounced as shams. Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak was scathing in his criticism of Putins trip, accusing him of degradation and being the author of mass murders in the war.

Large parts of Donetsk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia, as well as some areas of Luhansk province, have remained under Ukrainian control. In November, Russian forces ceded territory in Kherson province, including the regions namesake capital.

In a related development, the Moscow-appointed governor of the occupied part of Donetsk province, Denis Pushilin, went to the Belarus capital of Minsk and won pledges of support from President Alexander Lukashenko, a Putin ally.

The Kremlin forces Minsk to get involved in the war more actively in order to pressure Ukraine, Belarusian political analyst Valery Karbalevich said in a telephone interview. It is clear that Pushilins visit to Minsk has been synchronized with Putins trip to the occupied Ukrainian regions and aims to show that the Belarusian threat hasnt gone away.

During his visits, Putin congratulated the military divisions on Orthodox Easter, which was celebrated Sunday, and presented them with icons. Speaking to senior officers at the Kherson headquarters, Putin handed them a copy of an Orthodox icon he said belonged to a 19th century Russian general.

The senior officers present at the meetings reflected which ones were currently in favor with Putin. Col. Gen. Mikhail Teplinsky, the chief of Russia's airborne troops, was among the top generals at the Kherson base.

Teplinsky, a career officer who rose from lieutenant to become chief of the elite military branch, is known for being popular with his troops. Last fall, however, he was temporarily relieved of his position amid a spat with the military brass. He was restored to the job this year, and his meeting with Putin indicated he was back in favor.

A senior officer who greeted Putin in the Luhansk region, Col. Gen. Alexander Lapin, also was relieved of his duties as commanding officer in northeastern Ukraine after he was blamed for a hasty Russian pullback from parts of Kharkiv province in the face of a Ukrainian counteroffensive in September. Lapin was later named as chief of staff of the ground forces, and his meeting with Putin signaled he had the presidents trust.

Putins and Pushilin's trips came as Ukraine is preparing a new counteroffensive to reclaim occupied territories, possibly using the newly arrived Patriot.

In addition to Germany, the United States and Netherlands have pledged to provide Patriots, and a group of 65 Ukrainian soldiers trained in Oklahoma last month on how to use them.

The Patriot is a surface-to-air guided missile system first deployed in the 1980s that can target aircraft, cruise missiles and shorter-range ballistic missiles. A Patriot missile battery typically includes six mobile launchers, a mobile radar, a power generator and an engagement control center. Zelenskyy has said Ukraine needs at least 20 Patriot batteries.

Ukrainian officials have said theyre depleting Russian forces in eastern Ukraine while preparing for a counteroffensive.

Meanwhile, at least three civilians were killed and 11 wounded in Ukraine between Monday and Tuesday, according to Zelenskyy's office. Most of the casualties occurred in the Donbas, the eastern region made up of Luhansk and Donetsk provinces, the office said. Six people were wounded in artillery fire in the city of Kherson.

In another in a series of possible cross-border attacks into Russia, a drone a Russian official said was sent from Ukraine hit a military office in the Bryansk town of Novozybkov. Gov. Alexander Bogomaz said on Telegram that the building was damaged and no one was hurt. Ukrainian officials, in keeping with past practice, didn't comment on the incident.

Associated Press Writer Yuras Karmanau in Tallinn, Estonia, and Hanna Arhirova in Kyiv contributed.
Winona law enforcement ran compliance checks on alcohol sellers last week with six out of the 17 establishments failing.

No citations were given to the failing bars. The sheriffs department said this first round of checks was strictly educational. Failing businesses were given educational literature, and passing locations received a certificate.

The checks were conducted in a joint effort from the Winona Police Department, the Winona Sheriffs Department and the Winona County Alliance for Substance Abuse Prevention. They had an underage person go into the bars and try to order a drink.

Our hope is to educate and get it out there that were checking and we are striving for compliance because it does make our community safe, said Winona Deputy Police Chief Jay Rasmussen.

The checks on local establishments will continue throughout the summer.

The businesses that failed last weeks checks are The Reds Club, Broken World Records, Fast Eddies, Sloppy Joes, Poots Tavern and Mulligans Pub.

Education is what were preaching more than anything, Rasmussen said. We just want people to do the right thing.

Businesses in Winona were also sent notices of the compliance checks. Law enforcement said the checks are an important part of reducing underage consumption and can help reduce the problems and costs associated with underage drinking.

Rasmussen said that while the were considered educational at this time, businesses were told they could be referred to the appropriate licensing authority for administrative action.

Law enforcement also encouraged staff training to prevent underage selling.

We think that education is the best route to go, but its disheartening when you do 17 and six dont pass, Rasmussen said. I was kind of surprised. I didnt think it would be that many.
Two City of Delavan residents are facing several drug-related charges as a result of an investigation that occurred in late March, according to police.

Representatives from the Walworth County Drug Enforcement Unit conducted an investigation that included the sale of cocaine in the City of Delavan according to a press release from the Walworth County Sheriff's Office.

The investigation included controlled buys of cocaine and culminated with a search warrant, according to the press release.

About 1 p.m., March 31, the Walworth County Drug Enforcement Unit, with assistance of the City of Delavan Police Department, executed a drug search warrant at a residence in the City of Delavan.

Police said Reynaldo Miranda Jr., 47, and Damien R. Miranda, 24, were present at the time the search warrant was served.

According to police, about 4.87 grams of cocaine, 7.67 grams of Psilocybin mushrooms and 19.9 pounds of marijuana were located inside the residents.

Police said four firearms were confiscated from the residence, one on which was reported stolen, as well as about $38,000.

Reynaldo Miranda Jr. and Damien R. Miranda were arrested and transported to the Walworth County Jail, according to police.

Police said Reynaldo Miranda Jr. is facing charges of:

Two counts of possession of firearm by a felon

Two counts of delivery of cocaine

Receiving stolen property

Possession with intent to deliver cocaine, one to five grams

Possession with intent to deliver THC 2,500 grams to 10,000 grams, party to a crime

Possession of drug paraphernalia

Maintaining a drug trafficking residence.

Police said Damien R. Miranda is facing charges of:

Possession with intent to deliver Psilocybin, less than 100 grams

Possession with intent to deliver cocaine one to five grams, party to a crime

Possession with intent to deliver THC 2,500 grams to 10,000 grams

Possession of drug paraphernalia

Maintaining a drug trafficking residence.

According to police, Reynaldo Miranda Jr. and Damien R. Miranda also are facing penalty enhancers of intent to distribute/deliver drugs within 1,000 feet of a park and possession of a dangerous weapon while committing a crime.
An anonymous legislator on the states GOP-controlled finance committee on Tuesday objected to a plan by Democratic Gov. Tony Evers administration to spend $8 million in opioid settlement funds to address skyrocketing drug use.

It was the second time in eight months that the Joint Finance Committee objected to plans for spending portions of the $500 million the state expects to get from opioid manufacturers and other parties over nearly two decades  although in that earlier case, the committee approved amended plans soon after lodging its initial objections.

Its unclear whether the objection might affect efforts to fight abuse, or how Republicans might spend the money differently, since most of the money has not yet arrived.

A member of the committee on Tuesday objected to the state Department of Health Services plan to spend $8 million, which the organization expects to receive in July, on boosting distribution of opioid overdose-reversal agents, fentanyl testing strips and other efforts, leaving implementation of the plan in question.

The committees rejection letter didnt specify who objected to the spending plan or why.

An objection has been raised to this request and a meeting of the Joint Committee on Finance will be scheduled, stated the Tuesday letter to DHS signed by committee co-chairs Rep. Mark Born, R-Beaver Dam, and Sen. Howard Marklein, R-Spring Green.

Wisconsin is facing an opioid crisis, but Republicans in the Legislature have  twice now in eight months  single-handedly obstructed millions in settlement funds that we could use today to fight it, Evers said in response.

Spokespeople for DHS didnt respond to a request for comment on whether the objection might have any consequences for the agencys proposal.

The agency proposed spending $4 million to expand fentanyl- and overdose-reversal agents, $1 million to implement substance abuse prevention classes in schools, and $3 million to support capital projects to expand drug treatment, harm reduction, prevention and recovery statewide.

By DHSs own admission, there is limited information to report at this time on the use of previously received opioid settlement funds, Born and Marklein said in a statement. The proposal for the new round of funding appears to invest in initiatives from the last round that have not yet proven effective.

The committee will continue talking to stakeholders to make sure the funds are put to the most effective use, Born and Marklein said.

The committee rejected a $31 million spending plan in August, but approved an adjusted plan to use the settlement funds in September, after Evers said the committees earlier rejection simply defies logic.

Some $10 million of that is being spent on upgrading or building new addiction-treatment facilities, with $6 million going to tribal nations for prevention and treatment and $3 million going to law enforcement. Another $3 million is to expand access to naloxone, or Narcan, the overdose-reversal drug, and $2 million is to increase the distribution of fentanyl test strips.

Single-use fentanyl strips can be dipped into water containing a small sample from a pill, powder or injectable drug. Lines on the strips show the presence of fentanyl. The goal is to help drug users make informed decisions, such as using less of a drug or using only as long as someone else is present to monitor them.

More than 90% of opioid overdose deaths in 2021 involved fentanyl or other synthetic opioids, with fentanyl overdoses nearly doubling from 2019 to 2021, DHS said in a public health advisory in August.

The agency last year reported a record 1,427 opioid overdose deaths in 2021, 16.3% more than the previous record in 2020 and more than twice the toll from six and seven years earlier. Health officials blame fentanyl for much of the increase.
Administrators at Governors State University and the schools faculty and staff union have reached a tentative agreement, ending a strike that began April 11, according to union officials.

This contract is a step toward strengthening our university and the support we can give our students, and it will contribute to attracting high-quality educators and retaining the excellent faculty and staff we have, GSU University Professionals of Illinois President Mike Hart said in a news release Monday.

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[ Governors State faculty hit picket line, join colleagues at Chicago State and Eastern Illinois ]

Faculty and staff at Governors State  which is a Minority Serving Institution and an emerging Hispanic Serving Institution  will return to work Tuesday after progress was made on key issues in the latest bargaining sessions.

In a statement Tuesday, Cheryl Green, the universitys president, said the tentative contract accomplishes the goals of both parties  an agreement that recognizes the valuable contributions of the faculty and academic support professionals to the university while at the same time recognizing the universitys fiscal realities.

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GSUs chapter of the union hit the picket line last week following strikes at Chicago State University and Eastern Illinois University. The news out of Governors State comes after union members at CSU and EIU suspended their strikes after also reaching tentative agreements with their respective administrations.

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Union officials at Governors State have said students at the school have an increased need for advising assistance, yet school advisers are overloaded, some with as many as 500 students. Hart said in the news release the tentative contract addresses staff and facultys workload concerns and fair compensation.

The union and administration at Governors State have been bargaining since June 2022, and a federal mediator joined the talks in December. In March, union members voted to go on strike after little progress was made in the latest bargaining sessions.

Union members will have a chance to look over the tentative agreement before a ratifying vote.

It was the first time the local of University Professionals of Illinois had struck at Governors State. Members authorized a strike in 2019, but both sides came to terms shortly before teachers were due to walk out.

Union leaders had said that, apart from faculty adviser workloads, wages were a key issue in talks, and members are trying to regain ground lost during prior contracts when annual wages did not keep pace with increases in the cost of living. Wage increases in some years were zero or less than 1%, according to the union.

Specifics of the tentative agreement were not immediately available Tuesday.

mnolan@tribpub.com
Environmental groups and fishing interests are criticizing regional organizations set up by the United Nations to supervise fishing activities around the world.

The groups say the U.N. bodies need to be clearer and more open about what they are doing.

There are about 50 fisheries management organizations around the world. They bring together local fishers, coastal states, and big international fishers. They help regulate fishing rights for companies and countries in a way that is meant to conserve populations of fish and other ocean animals.

For years, these regulators have been accused of undemocratic practices that favor big, industrial fishers. Now several conservation groups are calling for a change.

Groups like the Ocean Foundation and the Global Tuna Alliance have supported more openness about the fisheries organizations decisions. They say more openness will permit more members of the public to take part in conservation efforts.

The U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) oversees fisheries management organizations. The FAO said it supports more openness in fisheries. But for local and small fishers who depend on well-managed fish populations, it's unclear if more open measures will help.

Kassim Abdalla is a fisherman on Kenya's coast. He is part of a cooperative group of fishers.

I only hear of meetings on fisheries, but I have no idea what it is they discuss there. I have never been invited," he said. He added that he cannot compete with large fisheries from developed nations.

The concern among environmentalists and small fishers is that large fishing boats can do things that are not possible for smaller boats. Their activities take fish supplies from fishers who must stay close to the coast. If there are no fish close to the coast, smaller fishers must take their boats farther out to sea, which is more dangerous.

Many industrial fishing boats use a method called purse seining. Fredric Manach said this method uses two-kilometer-long nets that surround whole schools of fish. Manach is a marine scientist with the ocean conservation group Bloom. Purse seining makes it difficult to protect fish populations, he said.

The European Union is closely involved in eight regional fisheries management organizations worldwide. The EU has been accused of using methods like purse seining. Critics also say the EU pressures coastal states to get better access to regional fishery management organizations.

The EU Commission denied the claims. It said it is not suppressing developing countries for more favorable access. It also said that it would ban purse seining if science supported a ban. But it is essential that science is the backbone of decision-making, EU officials said.

Manach said the regulatory bodies need to be more open about how they set fishing limits for countries and groups. There is absolutely no transparency surrounding how limits are set and who gets them, he said.

Last month, the U.N. high seas treaty was finally approved. The treaty will create a new body to manage conservation of ocean life and establish protected areas in the worlds oceans.

The hope for conservation groups is that fishery bodies involve small fishers in the discussions.

Ryan Orgera is with Accountability.Fish, a non-profit group based in Brussels. He said the most important thing is transparency.

He said more openness can make sure that "societies have access to what happens to our collective resources.

Im Dan Novak.

Dan Novak adapted this story for VOA Learning English based on reporting by The Associated Press.

______________________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

management m. the activity of controlling business operations of a company, office or organization

region  n. an area of a country or the world that is different from others

regulate  v. to make rules or laws to control an activity or industry

conserve  v. to keep something safe from damage or destruction

access  n. the ability to use or take part in an activity or resource

net n. a device made of rope or line that is used to catch fish

backbone  n. the most important or strongest part of something

transparent  adj. the quality of not hiding but making clear what people mean to do

society  n. a large number of people living in a country who have an organized community that observes laws
Businessman Elon Musk says ChatGPT and other artificial intelligence bots are too liberal and that he plans to create his own.

Musk, the owner of Twitter and the Tesla electric vehicle company, spoke with Tucker Carlson on the American television channel Fox News on Monday night.

He said his new AI bot will be called TruthGPT. He said it will be a maximum truth-seeking AI that tries to understand the nature of the universe.

He said his creation will try to understand humanity so it is less likely to destroy it.

Musk told Carlson that he is concerned the current AI creations are being trained to be politically correct.

He went on to say he wants to regulate, or set rules, for artificial intelligence. He said he sees the programs as being more dangerous than cars or rockets. He said the computer systems, which can have human-like discussions with users, have the ability to harm humans.

The discussion shown Monday on Fox News was the first of two parts.

Musk has some experience investing in artificial intelligence. He put money into Open AI, the company that created ChatGPT in 2015. But his involvement with the company ended in 2018. OpenAI said at the time that Musk left to end a conflict of interest as Tesla worked on automated driving systems.

In his conversation on Monday, Musk said he came up with the name OpenAI. At the time, Musk said, OpenAI was not-for-profit but it is now for profit. He also complained about the companys close ties with Bill Gates Microsoft.

In the past, Musk has said that Gates and Meta leader Mark Zuckerberg do not have a good understanding of artificial intelligence.

Musk used Twitter in 2019 to explain why he left OpenAI. In his posts, he said it was because Tesla wanted to hire some of the same people for its work on automated driving. He said it was better to leave OpenAI on good terms.

Since then, however, Musk has both praised and criticized artificial intelligence. Most recently, Musk has noted what he calls left-wing bias.

ChatGPT and other bots take information from around the internet and use it to answer questions. The companies that create these programs say they use filters to prevent the bots from giving out offensive answers.

A report from the Associated Press said Musk and a business partner turned in papers in March to create a company called X.AI Corp in the western state of Nevada.

Im Caty Weaver.

Dan Friedell adapted this story for Learning English based on a report by the Associated Press.

_____________________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

artificial intelligencen. an area of computer science that deals with giving machines the ability to seem like they have human intelligence

bot n. a computer program trained to do something such as have a conversation with a human

liberal adj. believing that government should be active in supporting social and political change

maximum adj. the most or highest level

nature n. the core, or deep-down truth of something

politically correct adj. agreeing with the idea that people should be careful to not use language or behave in a way that could offend a particular group of people

conversation n. the act of speaking to another person

hire v. to offer a person work

left-wing adj. having a liberal political point of view

bias n. favoring a point of view

______________________________________________________________________

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Students of United States history often learn that Plymouth Rock in Massachusetts and Jamestown in Virginia were the earliest settlements in North America.

But more than 50 years earlier, the Spanish had settled in the far northeastern corner of Florida in what is now the city of St. Augustine.

Despite being the oldest continuously occupied settlement founded by non-Native Americans in the U.S., St. Augustine is rarely talked about in American history classes.

I think it's because it's Spanish colonial history that we're talking about, says Nancy Sikes-Klein, mayor of St. Augustine. Some people might say it's Anglo biased.

Thomas Graham, a retired history professor at Flagler College in St. Augustine, agrees. He said his ancestors are from the Spanish period and for the longest time, St. Augustine and Florida were part of the Spanish Empire. He added that the two have been forgotten about for a long time in history, but that it is changing.

The Spanish controlled St. Augustine from 1565 until 1821, except for a brief period of English rule between 1763 and 1783. St. Augustine became part of the United States in 1821 when Spain turned its Florida territories, which were too costly for Spain to keep, over to the United States.

Today, St. Augustine is a small town. It covers 27.7 square kilometers and has a population of about 15,000.

And even with centuries of Spanish rule, it is difficult to see Spains influence on St. Augustine because most of the buildings from that time are long gone.

Graham said, The streets are still here, the narrow streets, the small city blocks, and they survive as a part of the oldest part of St. Augustine.

The oldest structure in St. Augustine is Castillo de San Marcos. It is a fort built by the Spanish in 1695 to protect against English attacks. The fort is now a national monument.

It was designed to protect an entire town. Whoever controls the city of St. Augustine and that fortress, at the time, controlled the territory of Florida, says Chris Leverett of the National Park Service.

The city was once a popular place for wealthy Americans to escape the difficult winters in northern U.S. states. In the 1870s, businessman Henry Flagler, a founder of Standard Oil, decided to build three world-class hotels for rich visitors. They were Hotel Ponce de Leon, Hotel Alcazar, and Hotel Cordova.

But the rich did not stay long. Within 20 years, the rich discovered that Palm Beach on the other side of Florida had even better weather.

Today, Hotel Ponce de Leon is Flagler College and Hotel Alcazar houses city offices and a museum. Only Hotel Cordova, the smallest of the three, is still a hotel but is now called Hotel Casa Monica.

Still, visitors remain a main source of income for the city. More than three million people visited the St. Augustine area between July 2021 and June 2022. Many stay for just the day, but the city is looking for ways to make visitors stay longer.

Mayor Sikes-Klein said, We have so many layers of history here that we want them to stay longer so that they can explore. The city hopes to bring in even more visitors as St. Augustine becomes more widely known as the oldest continuously occupied U.S. city.

Im Gregory Stachel.

Dora Mekouar reported this story for Voice of America. Gregory Stachel adapted it for VOA Learning English.

______________________________________________________________________

Words in This Story

despite  prep. used to say that something happens or is true even though there is something that might prevent it from happening or being true

Anglo  n. a white person who lives in the U.S. and is not Hispanic

biased  adj. having or showing an unfair tendency to believe that some people or ideas are better than others

fort  n. a strong building or group of buildings where soldiers live

monument  n. a building or place that is important because of when it was built or because of something in history that happened there

museum  n. a building in which interesting and valuable things (such as paintings and sculptures or scientific or historical objects) are collected and shown to the public

layer  n. a covering piece of material or a part that lies over or under another

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Former ComEd executive John Hooker leaves the Dirksen U.S. Courthouse in Chicago after another day of testimony in the ComEd Four trial on April 18, 2023. (Terrence Antonio James / Chicago Tribune)

The cross-examination of former ComEd CEO Anne Pramaggiore took a dramatic turn Tuesday when she inadvertently opened the door to questions about a 2019 interview with prosecutors where she denied knowing about the utility paying subcontractors connected to Democratic House Speaker Michael Madigan.

The apparent slip-up occurred while Pramaggiore was being asked about a recorded call with then-ComEd executive Fidel Marquez, who told her that the subcontractors, including former 13th Ward Ald. Frank Olivo, were being funneled through a contract with lobbyist Jay Doherty and that they didnt do any work.

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As she had testified on direct examination Monday, Pramaggiore tried to explain she didnt remember the call with Marquez because she was busy with other things and figured he had handled it.

Former ComEd CEO Anne Pramaggiore leaves the Dirksen U.S. Courthouse in Chicago after another day of testimony in the ComEd Four trial on April 18, 2023. (Terrence Antonio James / Chicago Tribune)

But Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Streicker kept pressing, asking her again, So you didnt remember the call?

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No, and I think I shared that with you when I came in for the interview, Pramaggiore blurted out, a comment that was followed by whispering among attorneys and a request by prosecutors for a sidebar with the judge.

[ ComEd Four bribery trial: What you need to know ]

When her testimony resumed, Pramaggiore was forced to reveal to the jury that shed agreed to be interviewed by investigators with her attorneys present in September 2019, four months after being confronted by the FBI and having her cellphone seized.

At the so-called proffer session, neither Pramaggiore nor her attorneys knew that the FBI had secretly recorded hundreds of conversations as part of the probe, including her chat with Marquez that February. The tenor of the meeting changed suddenly when Pramaggiore and her team were confronted with the tape.

So, Ms. Pramaggiore, after the call was played for you during the interview, the interview was terminated, right? Streicker asked.

Yes, Pramaggiore answered in a clipped, high-pitched tone.

You and your counsel terminated the interview? Streicker asked, prompting Pramaggiores attorney, Scott Lassar, to jump up and object.

U.S. District Judge Harry Leinenweber sustained the objection, and instructed the jury to disregard the question.

Later in the line of questioning, Pramaggiore grew defiant, insisting that she has remained consistent in her recollection.

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If I had remembered the conversation, I would have shared it with you because it proves my innocence, she told Streicker. I told (Marquez) to take it to (then-ComEd CEO Joe Dominguez) and to get rid of the subcontractors.

[ ComEd Four trial: Evidence seen and heard by the jury ]

Streicker also pointed out through her questioning that at the time she sat down with the government, Pramaggiore had known for months that the investigation focused on the subcontractors under Doherty, her friend and longtime head of the City Club of Chicago.

When the FBI confronted Pramaggiore in May 2019 and seized her cellphone, the search warrant mentioned the names of the specific subcontractors, including Olivo, 13th Ward precinct captains Ed Moody and Ray Nice and former 23rd Ward Ald. Mike Zalewski, Streicker noted.

If you tell me that, I assume its correct, Pramaggiore said about what was contained in the warrant. It was quite an event, so I dont remember if I paid attention to the details.

The highly anticipated cross-examination of Pramaggiore came in the 20th day of testimony in the ComEd Four bribery trial, where she and three others are accused in an alleged scheme to bribe Madigan in order to help the utilitys legislative agenda in Springfield.

On Tuesday afternoon, one of Pramaggiores co-defendants, ex-ComEd lobbyist John Hooker, also took the witness stand in his own defense, cracking jokes and sprinkling in his witty sayings dubbed Hookerisms as he took the jury through his remarkable life story.

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Speaking in a homespun, folksy style, Hooker, 74, testified how his wife, his high school sweetheart, died suddenly in the late 1960s, leaving him to raise their 18-month-old daughter. At the time, he was working in the mailroom at ComEd, which hed joined shortly after graduating from Farragut Career Academy on the citys West Side. Eventually he took night classes at Chicago State University and earned a degree in marketing, he said.

I had some ups and downs in life that derailed me a little bit, but I persevered, Hooker said.

Throughout his climb at the utility, Hooker said he was constantly confronted by racist attitudes, including when he was first sent to City Hall in the 1980s as a company liaison, where some of the Black aldermen viewed him as an Uncle Tom.

Hooker says he won everyone over by playing it straight. My job was to meet with everybody. When you see me talking to X or Y, that was me talking about ComEds business, he said. I became acceptable to all 50 aldermen and I was proud of that.

As a lobbyist for a state-regulated utility, Hooker said he was friendly with Madigan but never part of his inner circle. I was ComEd all the way, he said. Ive never been to his house, and hes never been to mine.

Asked if he went on a trip to Turkey with Madigan and Pramaggiore that has come up in previous testimony, Hooker quipped, No, Im not really a world traveler. The only turkey I deal with is at Thanksgiving.

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Hookers direct testimony will continue on Wednesday.

Charged in the ComEd Four case are Pramaggiore, Doherty, Hooker and Michael McClain, a former lobbyist and Madigans trusted confidant.

The indictment alleged the scheme included steering $1.3 million in payments from ComEd to Madigan-approved subcontractors, appointing businessman and former McPier boss Juan Ochoa to the utilitys board of directors, hiring a clout-heavy law firm headed by political operative Victor Reyes, and stacking the utilitys summer internship program with candidates sent from the 13th Ward.

All four have pleaded not guilty. Their lawyers have contended the government is trying to turn legal lobbying and job recommendations into a crime.

Madigan and McClain face a separate racketeering indictment that is set for trial next year.

The heart of the governments case is the dozens of wiretapped phone calls and secret video recordings of meetings that have been played for the jury over the past five weeks.

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Pramaggiore, a theater major from Dayton, Ohio, who earned a law degree and rose to become one of Chicagos top female executives, took the witness stand to try to mitigate some of the damage done by those FBI wiretaps, which at times showed her seemingly at ease with participating in Illinois notoriously rough-and-tumble political system.

The call that Pramaggiore was confronted with during her interview with prosecutors took place on Feb. 18, 2019, when Marquez, who was secretly cooperating with investigators, asked her how he was supposed to tell Dominguez about the arrangement with Doherty subcontractors.

I met with Jay, uh, Jay pretty much, well, he did say, Well, you know all these guys do is pretty much collect a check, um, and you should just leave it alone, " Marquez said on a recording. Dont mess with it, just leave it alone, um, otherwise things can go, you know, bad for us in Springfield.

At one point in their discussion, Pramaggiore blurted, Oh my God.

Pramaggiore testified in her direct examination she was taken aback that Marquez was telling her that there were subcontractors originally lined up years before by her predecessor, former ComEd CEO Frank Clark, but still getting paid.

On Tuesday, Streicker tried to poke holes in that explanation.

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You were so taken aback, you forgot this call? Streicker asked.

Pramaggiore also attempted to explain another part of the call highlighted by prosecutors, where she told Marquez, We do not want to get caught up in a  disruptive battle where, you know, somebody gets their nose out of joint and theyre forced to give someone a five-year contract.

On direct examination, Pramaggiore had testified she wasnt specifically talking about Madigan getting his nose out of joint  just that it was a bad time in general to rock the boat. I didnt use Madigans name, she said.

Streicker on cross-examination put the transcript of the call on the monitors for the jury, pointed Pramaggiore to it and asked, That was your first reaction to hearing this news?

It is my first reaction, Pramaggiore said.

In her roughly six hours of direct testimony, which began Thursday, Pramaggiore said she had no idea the company she headed from 2012 to 2018 had been paying lobbying subcontractors out of her own budget  let alone that they were former elected officials and precinct captains with strong ties to Madigan, then the most powerful politician in the state.

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No, we werent bribing Speaker Madigan, Pramaggiore said bluntly at one point Monday.

On cross-examination Tuesday, the confrontation over the proffer session came during what was otherwise a poised performance on the part of Pramaggiore, who stood her ground amid questions about her relationship with Madigan and her understanding of what efforts were being undertaken to stay in his good graces.

Pramaggiore acknowledged that she majored in theater at Miami University in Ohio. She said she initially wanted to be an actor, but that didnt go so well for me so I shifted to costume and makeup design.

Asked about the smart grid legislation that she worked to pass in 2011, Pramaggiore agreed that it was a big success for the company and for her own career. She was promoted to CEO of ComEd months later.

At one point, Streicker showed Pramaggiore a thank-you letter she sent to Madigan after passage of the smart grid bill. I am forever grateful, she wrote in script at the bottom.

Asked whether the sentiment was true, Pramaggiore replied calmly, I was forever grateful for everybody who ever voted for that bill.

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Pramaggiore also navigated tough questions about a 2018 effort to kill a bill supported by Madigans own daughter, then-Attorney General Lisa Madigan, which allegedly the speaker had given the go-ahead for to the ComEd lobbying team.

Streicker tried to pin Pramaggiore down on an email McClain sent about a coded kill message from Madigan, but she didnt take the bait.

I think its a message in response to our information that we were sending to him that this was a bad bill, Pramaggiore said. If ComEd wanted to kill a bill it was our job to do it.

Streicker also questioned Pramaggiore about her dealings with Will Cousineau, one of Madigans top government staffers who testified under an immunity agreement last month that the speaker sent him out to rally lawmakers and organized labor to support the 2016 Future Energy Jobs Act legislation.

The bill, though focused on saving two Exelon nuclear power plants, also allowed ComEd to extend a beneficial formula rate procedure that helped increase the companys bottom line.

On Dec. 2, 2016, the day after the FEJA bill passed, McClain sent an email asking if Pramaggiore had time to meet with Cousineau, who McClain said was extremely helpful in us acquiring the necessary votes in the Illinois House.

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Pramaggiore testified Tuesday she wasnt sure who Cousineau was, but did meet with him and later interviewed him for a job. Cousineau wound up rejecting ComEds offer because he wanted more money, she said.

In his testimony, Hooker said rising in the ranks of ComEd as an African American was tough because most of the other employees felt it was affirmative action.

Needless to say they didnt value that, or value me or think I was qualified to be there, he said.

Once he got to Springfield, he said, McClain helped show him the ropes, including how to develop relationships with both Republicans and Democrats, whom Hooker referred to as all those Rs and Ds.

I decided I was going to work with everybody, he said. I was going to meet everybody, tell em who I was and where I was from and build a relationship.

Hooker also buttressed the prior testimony of Cousineau, saying that the speaker told Cousineau to go out and rally proponents for the 2016 FEJA bill because support was waning in the last day of the fall veto session.

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Along with saving the two nuclear power plants and the jobs that went with it, the legislation also gave ComEd an extension of a formula rate system that allowed the company to have more stability and predictability in revenues. Consumers paid slightly more, but clean job advocates also advanced their cause.

I have to say it is a coalition bill, Hooker said, a line that prompted several jurors to write in their notebooks.

He also told of how ComEd rallied a coalition to defeat the bill being pushed by the speakers daughter in 2018, her last full year in office. The legislation would have provided low-income assistance, which appealed to Black lawmakers because many of their constituents fell into that category.

It was going to be her legacy bill, Hooker said of the attorney general.

But Hooker said he helped convince lawmakers that the problem with the bill was that it was a cost shift because the customers who would see the assistance would be underwritten by other customers whose rates would go up.

Hooker said he worked on turning around enough votes so that we would have a majority against it rather than for it.

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In his testimony, Hooker clasped his hands together and often chuckled at his own jokes. He described at length how being a good lobbyist meant developing relationships with lawmakers, reaching compromises and building coalitions.

Among the people who taught him the trade was McClain, who Hooker said could often be pushy. While McClain knew everyone in Springfield and was close with Madigan, he didnt wear it on his forehead, Hooker testified.

Mike was well known throughout the Capitol both with legislators and other stakeholders, he said.

Asked by his attorney, Jacqueline Jacobson, what he meant by a stakeholder, Hooker said, like the AARP.

Thats a senior citizens group, Hooker said with a smile. I happen to be a member.

jmeisner@chicagotribune.com

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rlong@chicagotribune.com
A look at the drug at issue in the new case, how the case got to the nation's highest court and what the delay might say about what's going on.
Australia is working to stabilize relations with China but could not return to the thriving economic relationship with its biggest trading partner that existed 15 years ago, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said yesterday.

Icy bilateral relations that deteriorated during the previous conservative Australian governments nine years in power have shown signs of improvement since Wongs center-left Labor Party was elected almost a year ago. Minister-to-minister meetings have resumed, China has recently lifted restrictions on Australian coal imports and Australia hopes a 3-year-old tariff barrier on Australian barley will be lifted within months.

But Wong said that trade relations could not return to the level when conservative Prime Minister John was in power from 1996 until 2007. Trade was then separated from political and strategic priorities.

I have been very clear that we seek to stabilize the relationship, Wong told the National Press Club. I think both countries know we are not going to go back to where we were 15 years ago.

During Howards era, you could have your strategic relationship with the United States and the economic relationship with China and the worlds stayed separate  we dont live in that sort of world anymore, Wong said.

China has imposed a series of official and unofficial trade barriers to Australian exports in recent years, particularly since the previous government angered Beijing by calling for an independent investigation into the causes of and responses to the COVID-19 pandemic.

While Australian businesses and state leaders were impatient for Chinese barriers to be lifted for exports including wine, wood and seafood, Wong described diversifying to other markets as a smart thing to do.

Even with increased diversification, China will remain Australias largest trading partner for the foreseeable future, and a valued source of foreign investment, where it meets our national interests, she said.

Australia has blocked the sale of assets including critical infrastructure to Chinese companies on national security grounds in recent years.

Wong said Australia was working toward maintaining a predictable, rules-based Asia-Pacific region where no country dominates and no country is dominated.

She agreed with U.S. President Joe Biden on the need for guardrails  communication channels between the United States and China to minimize the risk of military misunderstanding and miscalculation  as developed during the Cold War by the United States and the former Soviet Union.

President Biden has made overtures to China toward agreeing guardrails. It is in all the worlds interests that his overtures are met, Wong said.

I have said this to my Chinese counterpart and to his predecessor. And I will keep saying it, she added, referring to Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang and the man he replaced in December, Wang Yi. ROD McGUIRK, CANBERRA, MDT/AP
Two suspected Chinese spies gave a Sydney businessman envelopes of cash for information about subjects including a government deal with the United States and Britain to build a fleet of Australian nuclear-powered submarines, prosecutors told a court yesterday.

The businessman, Alexander Csergo, was refused bail when he appeared by video link from prison in Sydneys Downing Center Local Court charged with one count of reckless foreign interference.

The charge, included in laws against covert foreign interference and espionage that angered China when they were legislated in 2018, carries a maximum 15-year prison sentence.

He is accused of accepting money from two suspected Chinese spies he knew by the names Ken and Evelyn in exchange for handwritten reports on Australian defense, economic and national security arrangements since 2021 while he worked in Shanghai, where he owns a communications and technology infrastructure consultancy business.

The subjects included the AUKUS partnership among Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States to create an Australian submarine fleet powered by U.S. nuclear technology that was announced in September 2021, prosecutor Connor McCraith said.

U.S. President Joe Biden and the leaders of Australia and Britain announced details of the deal in March, including that Australia would buy secondhand Virginia-class submarines from the United States and build a new AUKUS class of submarines with Britain.

The suspected spies also requested details about Australias partnership with the United States, Japan and India known as the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, or the Quad, as well as information about lithium and iron ore mining in Australia, the prosecutors alleged.

Csergo has been in custody since Friday, when he was arrested at his home in the Sydney beachside suburb of Bondi. He had been questioned for weeks by police and agents of the Australian Security Intelligence Organization, the nations main domestic spy agency.

McCraith said Csergo admitted early in the questioning that he suspected Ken and Evylen were spies soon after meeting them but remained in contact with them for two years.

He clearly has links to the Chinese state and two people he clearly thinks work for the MSS (Ministry of State Security), McCraith told the court. He also traveled back to Australia with a shopping list of requested information, he said.

McCraith said a reasonable person would have alerted Australian authorities immediately after being approached.

Instead, Csergo continued to communicate with the male suspected spy, including inviting him to visit Australia, McCraith said.

Csergos lawyer, Bernard Collaery, said there was nothing sinister about his clients behavior and that he was an experienced, successful businessman who was lauded for developing working relationships in China.

Businesspeople such as our client know all roads lead to the state, whether it be the state economic intelligence agency or the Ministry of State Security, Collaery said.

Cash payments for consulting reports might have a color to it in Australia but might be the way its done in China  its not necessarily sinister, Collaery added.

Collaery said the reports were from publicly sourced documents, plus Csergos own creative efforts, and were nothing close to espionage.

Magistrate Michael Barko said Csergo was a very well-educated, sophisticated, worldly businessperson who was entitled to the presumption of innocence.

But Csergo faced a strong case from prosecutors, including several substantial admissions, Barko said.

Csergo told ASIO investigators he met Ken and Evelyn in empty cafes in Shanghai and believed the cafes had been specially cleared for him, according to court documents.

Csergo also believed Ken and Evelyn had been assigned by Chinas spy agency as his handlers, the documents say.

I dont know what they do in China, but in this country, if I were to read those facts to any layperson, they would be highly suspicious of the conduct of the defendant, at the very least, Barko said.

Csergo is due back in court in June. MDT/AP
The Chief Executive (CE) Ho Iat Seng is on an official five-day visit to Portugal from today until April 22, the Government Information Bureau (GCS) has announced.

Ho is leading a government delegation as well as a Macau entrepreneur delegation on the visit that will extend, on the return trip, to Luxembourg and Brussels (Belgium), before returning to Macau on April 27.

In the same statement, GCS noted the Macau Special Administrative Region (MSAR) government looks forward to strengthening ties with those countries in terms of economic and trade issues, cooperation in tourism, education and cultural affairs; as well as bolstering promotion of Macau in Europe.

While in the Portuguese capital city  Lisbon  the CE will meet the president of the Portuguese Republic, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa; the Prime Minister, Antonio Costa; and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Joao Cravinho.

After the Lisbon leg of the trip, the Macau entrepreneur delegation will travel to Porto, led by the Secretary for Economy and Finance, Lei Wai Nong, where they will visit several local enterprises to bolster bilateral ties in economic and trade matters.

On the trip to Luxembourg, the MSAR government delegation will meet the countrys Prime Minister and Minister of State, Xavier Bettel, who is also Minister for Communications and Media, Minister for Religious Affairs, Minister for Digitalization and Minister for Administrative Reform.

On the final stop of the 10-day European tour, Ho will visit the European Union (EU) headquarters in Brussels where he will meet some undisclosed EU officials.

While in Brussels, the Macau delegation will also meet Belgiums Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Economy and Employment, Pierre-Yves Dermagne, as well as the Minister-President of the Government of the Brussels-Capital Region, Rudi Vervoort.

During the CEs absence, the Secretary for Administration and Justice, Andre Cheong, will be Acting Chief Executive.

As the Times has previously reported, the Macau government delegation will only include two of the government secretaries, namely Lei and the Secretary for Transport and Public Works, Raimundo do Rosario. The Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture, Elsie Ao Ieong, has a separate visit planned next month that will include Portugal and Geneva (Switzerland).

Local businesspeople

received by several

Ministers in Lisbon

Members of the delegation of businesspeople currently in the Portuguese capital city  Lisbon  to promote Macau and find business opportunities and cooperation with local companies, have been received by several Portuguese Ministers, TDM Radio has reported.

Among those, Ambrose So, director-general of the Clean Energy Forum reportedly met yesterday with the Portuguese Minister for Environment and Climate Action, Duarte Cordeiro.

The same source also reported the executive director of SJM Holdings, Daisy Ho, will meet the Portuguese Minister of Culture, Pedro Adao e Silva, at the end of this week.
Edgar Martins, a photographer who grew up and lived in Macau for several years, was awarded Photographer of the Year 2023 for the portfolio series Our War, a project that features a collection of portraits of his late photojournalist friend, Anton Hammerl.

The project that was created to honor and commemorate a friend who was killed in the 2011 Libyan Civil War has won a top award at the Sony World Photography Awards, with a portrait that also won the Portrait Category of the 2023 awards.

Frustrated by the lack of progress in the investigation to find Hammerls body, Martins traveled to Libya in 2022 with the help of a smuggler.

However, the deteriorating situation in the country has made his search unfeasible.

While in North Africa, Martins photographed all types of people that he met  whether they were involved in the war, ex-militia, their descendants, local residents  anyone that could be a structure of a self-portrait of Hammerl.

Speaking to the Times, the photographer said the unexpected win not only took him aback but was also quite an emotional experience because I get to share my friends story on [the] world stage.

For the last three to four years, this has really been just inside my mind. Ive been working on the ground and all of that but it was very much a personal project. Now, of course, Im sharing it with the world, said the photographer, based in the UK.

In a statement to the World Photo Organization, Martins explained the series of shots were selected because they resembled him, espoused similar ideas and beliefs, or reminded me of him at different stages of our friendship.

This project portrays a complex story, warped by absence, that talks of the difficulty of documenting, testifying, witnessing, remembering, honoring and imagining, he said.

Although Martins has been overwhelmed with the win, he considers winning the competition as subjective amid the over 410,000 entries in the prestigious contest.

The story of his late friend, who travelled to Libya to cover the conflict between pro-regime and anti-Gaddafi forces, and then was forcefully abducted and killed by government militia, was just a jumping off point for this specific journey.

Although there had been other elements directly related to his practice as a photographer, Martins said he had always been very conscious of how photography has played in war zones and how it sometimes fails in storytelling.

Therefore, Our War, which is still a work-in-progress project scheduled to be launched, worldwide in 2024, is also a space to reflect on the decisive but paradoxical role that photography has played in conflict zones.

Ive always been somewhat critical of the way in which documentaries [or] photographs sometimes fall into [the] same old tropes, he told the Times.

A story backed by grief and loss, the series is part of a wider, much more complex project that includes sound, installations and short films  a myriad of different types of approaches to tell the story.

This isnt an orthodox documentary project. Its a project where the reality and my imagined reality of the places and circumstances [meet]. [] Conflict has always been polarized in terms of the aggressors and victims. The reality of course is always much [more] nuanced that this, Martins added.

Last week, the World Photography Organization revealed its 10 category winners and the prestigious Photographer of the Year, honoring professional photographers who have provided a snapshot from parts of the world rarely seen.

The Photographer of the Year award had a field of 180,000 entries, and includes the prize of a lead place in the World Photography exhibition, imaging equipment and a USD40,000 cash prize.

Martins work triumphed in the Portraiture category of the Professional competition.

In a statement, prize chair Mike Trow described the project as a powerful, personal set of portraits, adding: (Martins) work highlights the lengths photographers will go to to tell a story and create meaning; each image giving a sense of the journey Anton took without ever being explicit about how his life ended.

Born in Evora, Martins completed an MA in Photography and Fine Arts at the Royal College of Art. Throughout his career, he has received the Jerwood Photography Award (2003), the inaugural New York Photography Award (Fine Art category, May 2008), the BES Photo Prize (Portugal, 2009), the Sony World Photography Award (2009 and 2018), the International Photography Awards 2010 (Abstract category) and the Hangar Centre Photography Prize (2021), among others.

Between 2002 and 2022 Martins published 15 separate monographs, which were received with critical acclaim. He was selected to represent Macau (China) at the 54th Venice Biennale.
The 3rd Hengqin International Scientific and Technological Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition has kicked off in the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin. With a total prize pool of RMB300 million, the competition welcomes outstanding innovation enterprises across the globe.

The competition has also created a new award, the New Green Lotus Award, to attract entrants from Macao and Portuguese-speaking countries. Its prize amounts to RMB8 million, which will be shared by 10 winning teams, with at least two teams from lusophone countries.

The competition marks the first sci-tech competition held by Hengqin and Macau jointly after the operation of the Cooperation Zone. Hosted by the Executive Committee of the Cooperation Zone, it is organized by the Economic Development Bureau of the Cooperation Zone, with support from the SARs Economic and Technological Development Bureau and the Science and Technology Development Fund.

This years competition further focuses on the major industries of the Cooperation Zone, including integrated circuits and electronic components, biomedicine and medical devices, big data and artificial intelligence, new materials and new energy.

In addition, it will prioritize those technology innovation projects that have made innovative achievements, and achieved key technological breakthroughs with high potential for industrialization.

According to Fu Yongge, deputy director of the Executive Committee of the Cooperation Zone, the competition is an important platform for investment attraction and talent introduction in the Cooperation Zone, and it is also an important initiative for the Cooperation Zone to assist Macaus adequate economic diversification.

The competition has 31 awards, with 11 for the start-up group, 10 for the growth group and 10 for the New Green Lotus Award. And the top winner in the growth group will be awarded up to 100 million RMB as non-repayable funding to subsidize its R&D expenses and investment facilities. Staff Reporter
Top diplomats from the Group of Seven wealthy democracies are vowing a tough stance on Chinas increasing threats to Taiwan and on North Koreas unchecked tests of long-range missiles, while building momentum on ways to boost support for Ukraine and punish Russia for its invasion.

Russias war in Ukraine will consume much of the agenda yesterday as the envoys gather in this Japanese hot spring resort town for Day Two of talks meant to pave the way for action by G-7 leaders when they meet next month in Hiroshima.

The world is at turning point on the fighting in Ukraine and must firmly reject unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force, and Russias aggression against Ukraine and its threats of the use of nuclear weapons, Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi told his colleagues, according to a Japanese summary.

For the American delegation, the meeting comes at a crucial moment in the worlds response to Russias invasion of Ukraine and efforts to deal with China, two issues that G-7 ministers from Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Canada, Italy and the European Union regard as potent challenges to the post-World War II rules-based international order.

A senior U.S. official traveling with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters that the Biden administrations goal for the talks is to shore up support for Ukraine, including a major initiative on Ukraines energy infrastructure launched at last years G-7 gatherings in Germany, as well as to ensure the continued provision of military assistance to Kyiv. Ramping up punishment against Russia for the conflict, particularly through economic and financial sanctions that were first threatened by the G-7 in December 2021, before the invasion, will also be a priority, the official said.

Ukraine faces an important moment in coming weeks with Russias current offensive largely stalled and Ukraine preparing a counter-offensive. The U.S. official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss Blinkens priorities at the closed-door meetings, said there would be discussion about ways to deepen support for Ukraines long-term defense and deterrence capabilities. That might also improve Kyivs position for potential negotiations that could end the conflict on its terms.

The role of Japan  the only Asian member of the G-7  as chairman of this years talks provides an opportunity to discuss coordinated action on China. Leaders and foreign ministers of G-7 countries, most recently France and Germany, have recently concluded visits to China, and the diplomats in Karuizawa are expected to discuss their impressions of where the Chinese stand on numerous issues, including the war in Ukraine, North Korea, and Taiwan, which is a particular sore point in U.S.-Chinese relations.

At a private working dinner on Sunday night that was the diplomats first formal meeting, Hayashi urged continued dialogue with China on the many global challenges where participation from Beijing is seen as crucial. Among the Chinese interests that are intertwined with those of wealthy democracies are global trade, finance and climate efforts.

But the diplomats are also looking to address Chinas more aggressive recent stance in Northeast Asia, where it has threatened Taiwan, the self-governing island that Beijing claims as its own.

Hayashi told ministers that outside nations must continue building a constructive and stable relationship, while also directly expressing our concerns and calling for China to act as a responsible member of the international community, according to a summary of the closed-door dinner.

China recently sent planes and ships to simulate an encirclement of Taiwan. Beijing has also been rapidly adding nuclear warheads, taking a tougher line on its claim to the South China Sea and painting a scenario of impending confrontation.

The worry in Japan can be seen it its efforts in recent years to make a major break from its self-defense-only post-WWII principles, working to acquire preemptive strike capabilities and cruise missiles to counter growing threats.

Blinken, the top U.S. diplomat, had been due to visit Beijing in February, but the trip was postponed because of a Chinese spy balloon incident over U.S. airspace and has yet to be rescheduled.

Blinken met briefly with Chinas top diplomat, Wang Yi, on the sidelines of the Munich Security Forum, but high-level contacts between Washington and Beijing have become rare. Thus, Blinken will be seeking insight from his French and German counterparts on their interactions with the Chinese, the senior U.S. official said.

Despite indications, notably comments from French President Emmanuel Macron, that the G-7 is split over China, the official said there is shared worry among G-7 nations over Chinas actions. The official added that the foreign ministers would be discussing how to continue a coordinated approach to China.

North Korea is also a key area of worry for Japan and other neighbors in the region. MDT/AP
Melco management team members recently attended the opening day of the National Security Education Exhibition on the National Security Education Day, the gaming operator said in a statement. Approximately 180 Melco colleagues are expected to attend the month-long exhibition on the importance of national security jointly hosted by SAR government and Liaison Office of the Central Peoples Government in the Macau SAR.

Last week, Melco colleagues also visited an exhibition to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the promulgation of the Basic Law.

Nearly 150 Melco colleagues are expected to visit this month-long exhibition to deepen their understanding of the Basic Law. Furthermore, since January this year, 200 Melco colleagues have visited the Commemorative Gallery of the Macao Basic Law organized by the Municipal Affairs Bureau (IAM)s Division of Civic Education. A further 200 colleagues are expected to visit the exhibition by the end of this year.
Ozuna performs at Suenos Music Festival in Chicago's Grant Park on May 28, 2022. (Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune)

More than 80,000 festivalgoers attended the inaugural two-day Latino music festival Suenos in Grant Park last year during Memorial Day weekend, which created nearly 1,000 jobs and contracted dozens of local food and beverage vendors, organizers announced Tuesday.

More than 75% of the food and beverage vendors at the festival in 2022 were Latinos, said Jaime di Paulo, president of the Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.And festival organizers said they will continue to strive to include Latinos into the overall production and operation of the festival, including hiring efforts at the annual job fair.

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This year, di Paulo expects that percentage to be surpassed.

Even the fencing company is Latino. The guys on security are Latino. So everything about the event is about our community, said di Paulo.

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The festival, featuring Latino artists from different genres around the world, including reggaeton and regional Mexican music, will be held May 27-28 in Grant Park.

Joel Jowell Munoz performs at Suenos Music Festival in Chicago's Grant Park on May 28, 2022. (Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune)

Suenos, or Dreams in English, was launched last year as a tribute and celebration of the reggaeton music and Latino culture; and as a way of recognizing the culture of the city and supporting Chicagos economy. Organizers said the festival brought in $120.9 million to the local economy, according to a study of its economic impact by AngelouEconomics and C3 Presents.

[ First Suenos Music Festival of Latin reggaeton draws a huge, fans-only crowd in Grant Park ]

The economics not only highlight the Latino buying power in Chicago but throughout the Midwest, organizers said.

The mission of the festival goes beyond uplifting the Latino music scene and catering to the growing bilingual and bicultural populations in the Chicago area, they said. It also aims to create opportunities for local artists and invest in Latino youth in the community, said Tuba Smith, C3s festival director for Lollapalooza and director for Suenos.

Fans react as Ozuna takes the stage at Suenos Music Festival in Chicago's Grant Park on May 28, 2022. (Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune)

Last year, organizers donated $50,000 to the Pilsen Neighbors Community Council for their annual Fiesta Del Sol scholarships for first-generation Latino and students in country without legal permission.

Monica Gonzalez, a junior at National Louis University and one of the winners of the scholarship said that she was proud to support the event as it creates more opportunities for students like her at the same time that it celebrates her culture.

For Brenda and Omar Torres, leaders of the Segundo Ruiz Belvis Cultural, an arts center program in the Hermosa neighborhood, funding and support from the festival has helped them expand their youth programs, including adding a recording studio to encourage youth to create music.

The $50,000 that the arts center program received also helped them to add two performance spaced for music and dance programs.

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The festival said Brenda Torres, is also a sign of healing of our communities.

The headliners include Wisin Y Yandel, Grupo Firme, Feid and Nicky Jam. Other artists scheduled include Becky G, Junior H and Chencho Corleone.

Chicago local DJ Miriam will be returning. Last year, she said, it was a dream for her mother to see her perform alongside top Latino artists.

Afternoon Briefing Daily Chicago Tribune editors' top story picks, delivered to your inbox each afternoon. By submitting your email to receive this newsletter, you agree to our Subscriber Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy >

A sense of pride has been lifted for Latinos in Chicago, she said.

larodriguez@chicagotribune.com
The SAR has reached a peak in daily visitor arrivals since the onset of the pandemic, recording over 98,000 tourists visiting the city on April 15.

With this figure, Macau has recovered to 58% of the pre-pandemic levels.

Speaking at the Legislative Assembly, Secretary for Economy and Finance, Lei Wai Nong said the city is gaining momentum from its tourism promotions and offers which have attracted travelers from the mainland and Hong Kong. Lei said tourists visiting Macau are young people, ranging from 18 to 35 years old.

The Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) is communicating with the gaming concessionaires about resource allocation to promote non-gaming elements in communities, take advantage of community tourism components, and speed up the recovery of economic tourism, Lei said.

Some mainland visitors said festivals and events are among the main reasons they come to Macau, and of those, half stayed for more than three days, according to Lei.

The office has concluded that festivals and events can help encourage visitors to stay, so it will support community tourism and festival tourism.

The office has also launched a specific financial support program for Community Economic Tourism Development to encourage local organizations to attract visitors to their communities through special tourism activities that incorporate local traditional folk cultures, history and travel resources.

With the theme Monthly highlight of Macau, the government will make the most of elements like festivals, foods, sports, the creative industries, MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions), science and technology, as well as resources from the tourism industry and organizations, to launch more promotional activities.

Promotional activities for tourism with Zhuhai and Zhongshan in Hunan and Fujian are scheduled for a second season this year. The government will also hold a meeting on annual cooperation with the Guangdong and Hong Kong tourism bureaus about a brand-new multi-destination travel scheme.

Gaming operators should submit their investment and execution plans to the government annually, which can be adjusted by the government in response to needs of economic development, according to the gaming concession contracts.

No plans for another round of consumption card

Lei has said that there is no need to issue consumer cards now, but he will closely follow the economic development situation and make dynamic plans to deal with any changes.

This comes after lawmaker Pereira Coutinho called for another round of MOP8,000 consumption card.

At the plenary many lawmakers were concerned about the remaining MOP4 billion of the second MOP10 billion anti-pandemic fund measures.

Lei said the nature of the relevant funds is a contingency need. If the situation improves, the balance will be taken back to the treasury.

He said the current recovery is better than expected, and compared with other regions, it has also made progress.

Lei also said the new unemployment rate (January to March) will drop further to 3.9%, and the underemployment rate will drop to 2.7%. Staff Reporter
If a relevant bill passes the parliament tomorrow, drivers will only be allowed to pay road-side parking fees by electronic means from May 1.

The First Standing Committee of the parliament has concluded its discussion on the Bill concerning public parking services and compiled its opinions.

It is proposed to take effect on Aug. 1, with an exception for road-side parking fee payment, which is proposed to take effect in May.

After the concluding session, president Ella Lei of the committee told a press conference that all parking services operated or commissioned by the government will take both cash and electronic payment methods, except for two scenarios, as the bill proposes.

The two scenarios are when public parking lots clearly state the acceptance of only a single payment method, and in cases of road-side parking spaces.

There were some debates at the committee on the proposal restricting parking meters to accept electronic payments only. In explanation, the government said that the current facilities used are aged, but newer facilities that the government prefers either only take electronic payment methods or are more expensive when they take both methods.

The government also blamed the current facilities for slow speeds in interface reaction and data transmission.

Future parking fees will be determined by the Chief Executive with Executive Dispatch.

Several drivers questioned the grounds for electronic-payment-only parking meters when they discussed the matter with local media Macao Daily News. One driver thought that public policies should be at the publics convenience.

Another driver moaned that the public opinions are not important to the government. The government is so bossy that it didnt even consider asking the people, the driver said.

A Mr Lei cited foreign parking meters, which charge drivers after their parking times, to criticize the government for not changing its mentality.
Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Chinas defense minister yesterday [Macau time], underscoring Beijings strengthening engagement with Moscow, with which it has largely aligned its foreign policy in an attempt to diminish the influence of the United States and other Western democracies.

Putin and Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu met with Gen. Li Shangfu less than a month after Chinese leader Xi Jinping held a three-day state visit to Moscow.

China has refused to criticize Russias military actions in Ukraine and blames the United States and NATO for provoking Moscow. But Chinas foreign minister said last week that China wouldnt be helping Russia with weapons, as the U.S. and other Western allies have feared.

Officially, China remains neutral in the Ukraine conflict. However, Xis trip emphasized how China is increasingly becoming the senior partner in the relationship as it provides Russia with political cover and an economic lifeline during the Ukraine conflict.

In comments opening the meeting, Putin praised the general development of Russia-China relations.

We are also working actively through the military departments, regularly exchanging information that is useful to us, cooperating in the field of military-technical cooperation, conducting joint exercises, moreover, in different theaters: in the Far East region, and in Europe, and at sea, and on land and in the air, he said, according to the Kremlin.

Li said that the countries relations outperform the military-political unions of the Cold War era. They rest on the principles of nonalignment, and are very stable. MDT/AP
* Ho starts Europe tour

 CE leaves today to Portugal, in a visit that includes Luxembourg and Belgium, accompanied by a large business entourage

* Photography | Edgar Martins tribute to journalist killed in Libya wins major intl award

* Drivers may only be allowed to pay road-side parking fees by electronic means from May 1

* PJ investigates over 150 school cases last year, 15 related to child sexual abuse

* US sails warship through Taiwan Strait after Chinas drills

* The Conversation

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Tuesday, April 18, 2023  edition no. 4227
The United States, South Korea and Japan conducted a joint missile defense exercise yesterday in waters near the Korean Peninsula as they expand military training to counter the growing threats of North Koreas nuclear-capable missiles.

Last week, North Korea conducted one of its most provocative weapons demonstrations in years by flight-testing for the first time an intercontinental ballistic missile powered by solid propellants, as it pursues a weapon thats more responsive, harder to detect and could directly target the continental United States.

North Koreas unprecedented run of weapons tests has so far involved more than 100 missiles of various ranges fired into the sea since the start of 2022 as the country attempts to build a viable nuclear arsenal that could threaten its rival neighbors and the United States.

The South Korea-U.S.-Japan training could trigger a belligerent response from North Korea, which condemns the United States military drills with its Asian allies as invasion rehearsals. The North has used those drills as a pretext to accelerate its own weapons development, creating a cycle of tit-for-tat that has raised tensions in recent months.

South Koreas navy said yesterdays three-way naval drills took place in international waters off the countrys eastern coast and focused on mastering the procedures for detecting, tracking and sharing information on incoming North Korean ballistic missiles. The one-day naval exercise involved an Aegis destroyer from each country.

The drills goal is to improve our response capabilities against ballistic missiles and strengthen our ability to conduct joint operations as North Koreas nuclear and missile threats continue to escalate, Jang Do-young, a spokesperson of South Koreas navy, said in a news briefing.

The United States and South Korea also launched drills involving some 110 warplanes, including advanced F-35 fighter jets, that will continue through April 28.

The U.S.-South Korean aerial drills are designed to enhance combined airpower execution and train aircrews to successfully respond in combat scenarios involving robust surface-to-air and air-to-air threats, according to the militaries. The training events reaffirm the U.S.s ironclad commitment to the ROK, the U.S. Seventh Air Force said in a statement, using the initials of South Koreas formal name, the Republic of Korea.

Also yesterday, South Korea and Japan resumed a security meeting of senior diplomats and defense officials following a five-year hiatus. The meeting is one of many recent events that show ties between Seoul and Tokyo are improving in the face of North Koreas evolving nuclear threats after years of disputes over history and trade.

During the meeting, South Koreas Defense Ministry said Seoul and Tokyo discussed North Koreas nuclear program and a trilateral cooperation with the United States.

The United States and South Korea conducted their biggest filed exercises in years in March and have also held separate naval and aerial drills involving a U.S. aircraft carrier battle group and nuclear-capable B-52 bombers. The North responded by dialing up its own testing activity.

Yesterday marks 11 straight days that North Korea has not responded to South Korean checkup calls on a set of cross-border inter-Korean hotlines, South Korean officials say, raising concerns about potential kinetic provocations. Communications on those channels are meant to prevent accidental clashes along the rivals sea borders.

On Saturday, a South Korean naval vessel fired warning shots to repel a North Korean patrol vessel that temporarily crossed the countries disputed western sea boundary while chasing a Chinese fishing boat. There were no exchanges of fire between the North and South Korean vessels.

While the Souths military strengthened monitoring and readiness after the intrusion, it didnt immediately detect any unusual activity from the North Korean military, Joint Chiefs of Staff spokesperson Lee Sung Jun said.

North Koreas aggressive nuclear push under ruler Kim Jong Un is aimed at forcing the United States to accept the idea of the North as a legitimate nuclear power and negotiating economic concessions from a position of strength, many experts say. Nuclear talks between Washington and Pyongyang have remained derailed since 2019.

However, there are also signs that the costs of Kims campaign is piling up as North Korea apparently grapples with food insecurity and other domestic problems worsened by pandemic-related border restrictions that disrupted trade with China, its main ally and economic lifeline. Chasing tangible economic achievements, Kims government has prioritized construction and agricultural projects.

The Norths official Korean Central News Agency said yesterday that Kim attended an event over the weekend celebrating the building of 10,000 new homes at a district in Pyongyang. The project is part of broader plans to supply 50,000 new homes in the capital under a five-year national development plan that runs through 2025.

During Sundays event, Kim called the housing project a long-cherished plan aimed at providing his people with more stable and civilized living conditions, KCNA said.

Experts say North Korea has severe shortages in quality housing that deepened over decades of economic decay. But living conditions are much better in Pyongyang, where Kim in past years has pushed huge development projects that upgraded housing for elites and changed the citys skyline. KIM TONG-HYUNG, SEOUL, MDT/AP
The United States Navy has sailed a warship through the Taiwan Strait in its first known transit since China carried out an encirclement exercise around self-ruled Taiwan.

The U.S. 7th Fleet said the transit through the strait by the USS Milius on Sunday was routine. The cruisers transited through a corridor in the Strait that is beyond the territorial sea of any coastal State, the statement said.

Last week China concluded large-scale air and sea drills in the strait in retaliation for Taiwans Tsai Ing-wen meeting with U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy on April 5 in California. China said Wednesday that the exercises simulating an encirclement of Taiwan were intended as a serious warning to pro-independence politicians on the self-governing island and their foreign supporters.

China protested the transit yesterday, saying the U.S. transit was a public hype and that the Eastern Theater Command was ready at any time to resolutely safeguard the countrys sovereignty, safety, and regional peace and stability, according to a statement from the Eastern Theater Commands spokesperson Shi Yilu.

China has stepped up its military pressure over Taiwan in recent years, sending fighter jets and navy vessels towards the island on a near-daily basis. After former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan last August, China sent more and more military vessels over the midline of the Taiwan Strait, an unofficial boundary that had been accepted for decades. That increasing pressure from China has given greater attention to Taiwan globally.

Visiting French lawmaker Eric Bothorel, who arrived in Taipei yesterday, said that the world is watching.

What we want to say to Taiwan is if something happens to Taiwan, it will change the world, Bothorel told reporters. That is the reason why we have, for instance, a military ship from France, in the China Sea last week. We consider that we have to preserve the freedom of traveling, of moving in this space.

Taiwans military confirmed a French navy vessel had transited the middle of the Taiwan Strait last week. However, it did not elicit a public protest by the Chinese military.

China earlier had sanctioned the organizations involved with Tsais visit in the U.S., including the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, where her meeting with McCarthy and other members of Congress were held. It also sanctioned U.S. Rep. Michael McCaul, the Texas Republican who chairs the chambers Foreign Affairs Committee, for visiting Taiwan.

On Sunday, China launched a rocket carrying a satellite that dropped debris into waters north of the capital Taipei. While the satellite launch had no obvious military purpose, it disrupted travel, delaying flights. MDT/AP
The Madison School Board has named longtime educator Lisa Kvistad as the district's interim superintendent while they search for a permanent replacement for outgoing Superintendent Carlton Jenkins.

The board voted unanimously to hire Kvistad to the temporary role on Monday night after meeting in closed session for more than 2 hours. She will officially take the helm on June 12, with her contract expiring June 30, 2024.

According to his February retirement announcement, Jenkins' last day is July 28, and the two will work to "ensure a smooth transition," the district said.

"I am honored and very humbled tobe serving in this capacity," Kvistad said.

Kvistad has been in education for nearly four decades and she retired from the Madison School District in 2020 after 19 years.

She was most recently the assistant superintendent for teaching and learning for nine years. Prior to that, she was the director of state and federal programs for the district, and the principal for Elvehjem and Lowell elementary schools from 2001 to 2012.

As assistant superintendent, she specifically led a team that worked on virtual and hybrid learning during the pandemic among many other roles, and she has experience working with curriculum, special education, student services, advanced learning and more.

She also co-chaired the Early Literacy and Beyond Task Force in2020,a joint task force between the district and UW-Madison. The district's website states she holds a part-time administrative role in the district's central office.

Kvistad received her master's degree in educational leadership and administration from UW-Madison and she started her career in teaching in Janesville and Wisconsin Heights.

"You have my commitment to create a stable and solid foundation for communication and ways of working so that the board of education can focus on your most important task, and that's hiring MMSD's next superintendent," Kvistad said.

"I'm committed to setting a foundation that is strong for the new superintendent of schools in Madison," she added.

Some of her priorities as interim superintendent will be hiring to teachers and principals, ensuring the summer semester and start of the next school year are "strong and efficient," meeting with staff on the upcoming budget and long-term projects to better position the next superintendent, and improving communications and organization with the district's central office and to families and the community.

"Her leadership, expertise and profound commitment to the children of this community is right on time and essential to our transition process" School Board President Ali Muldrow said in a statement. "Our board is confident that Lisa will hit the ground running with in this role as she has risen to the occasion in every other role she' sheld through outher career in education."

On Monday, the board also voted to hire Alma Advisory Group out of Chicagoas a consultant firm that will help the district search for its next leader.

A request for proposals was posted in early March,and the district received four responses. The board interviewed the firm last week, along with one other firm.

Alma is a group led by women of color, according to its website, and the group says it fosters "conditions where everyone can do their best work toward your vision and goals." The firm has experience helping districts find superintendents across the country, including in Denver, Boston and Baltimore.

When announcing his departure in February, Jenkins said he was retiring to spend more time with family, particularly his 3-year-old grandson, but over the weekend it was revealed that Jenkins was a finalist for the superintendent position at Memphis Shel by County Schools in Tennessee.

Alma Advisory Group also applied to lead the search for Memphis' superintendent, but the district ultimately went with a different firm.

Jenkins will have been with the district for nearly three years when he leaves his post in July, which will be the shortest tenure of a Madison superintendent  not counting interim leaders  since 1920.

The position has faced a lot of turnover in recent years, and including interim superintendents, Kvistad will the fourth person to lead the Madison School District in the last decade. Whoever assumes the position permanently will be the fifth.

After former Superintendent Jennifer Cheatham announced her retirement from the district in May 2019, it took the board about nine months to find and hire its first choice to fill her shoes. That person eventually backed out,and it took another three months to then hire Jenkins.

The interim superintendent during that search process was Jane Belmore, who served in the role from 2019 to 2020.
A Lodi man faces a homicide charge in a three-vehicle crash that killed a man in the village of Dane on Monday, authorities reported.

The crash happened about 12:10 p.m. Monday at 101 W. Main St., Dane County Sheriffs Office spokesperson Elise Schaffer said in a statement.

Witnesses reported that a Ford F-350 pick-up truck left the BP gas station on Main Street at high speed, failed to stop at a stop sign at the intersection of Military Road and Main Street and hit a Nissan Frontier pick-up that was heading east on Main Street, Schaffer said.

The Ford pick-up then sideswiped a Ford Escape that was stopped at the stop sign on Highway DM, causing it to roll over, Schaffer said.

David P. Esser, 52, died at the scene from injuries caused by the crash, the Dane County Medical Examiner said in a statement.

The 73-year-old man who was driving the Frontier was not injured, Schaffer said.

The driver of the Ford F-350, Maxwell Hamilton, 22, was placed through field sobriety testing and taken to a local hospital for a blood draw before being booked into the Dane County Jail on tentative charges of homicide by negligent use of a motor vehicle, Schaffer said.

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
The Madison School Board has named longtime educator Lisa Kvistad as the districts interim superintendent while they search for a permanent replacement for outgoing Superintendent Carlton Jenkins.

The board voted unanimously to hire Kvistad to the temporary role on Monday night after meeting in closed session for more than 2 hours. She will officially take the helm on June 12, with her contract expiring June 30, 2024.

According to his February retirement announcement, Jenkins last day is July 28, and the two will work to ensure a smooth transition, the district said.

I am honored and very humbled to be serving in this capacity, Kvistad said.

Kvistad has been in education for nearly four decades and she retired from the Madison School District in 2020 after 19 years.

She was most recently the assistant superintendent for teaching and learning for nine years. Prior to that, she was the director of state and federal programs for the district, and the principal for Elvehjem and Lowell elementary schools from 2001 to 2012.

As assistant superintendent, she specifically led a team that worked on virtual and hybrid learning during the pandemic among many other roles, and she has experience working with curriculum, special education, student services, advanced learning and more.

She also co-chaired the Early Literacy and Beyond Task Force in 2020, a joint task force between the district and UW-Madison. The districts website states she holds a part-time administrative role in the districts central office.

Kvistad received her masters degree in educational leadership and administration from UW-Madison and she started her career in teaching in Janesville and Wisconsin Heights.

You have my commitment to create a stable and solid foundation for communication and ways of working so that the board of education can focus on your most important task, and thats hiring MMSDs next superintendent, Kvistad said.

Im committed to setting a foundation that is strong for the new superintendent of schools in Madison, she added.

Some of her priorities as interim superintendent will be hiring top-notch teachers and principals, ensuring the summer semester and start of the next school year are strong and efficient, meeting with staff on the upcoming budget and long-term projects to better position the next superintendent, and improving communications and organization with the districts central office and to families and the community.

Her leadership, expertise and profound commitment to the children of this community is right on time and essential to our transition process School Board President Ali Muldrow said in a statement. Our board is confident that Lisa will hit the ground running within this role as she has risen to the occasion in every other role shes held throughout her career in education.

On Monday, the board also voted to hire Alma Advisory Group out of Chicago as a consultant firm that will help the district search for its next leader.

A request for proposals was posted in early March, and the district received four responses. The board interviewed the firm last week, along with one other firm.

Alma is a group led by women of color, according to its website, and the group says it fosters conditions where everyone can do their best work toward your vision and goals. The firm has experience helping districts find superintendents across the country, including in Denver, Boston and Baltimore.

When announcing his departure in February, Jenkins said he was retiring to spend more time with family, particularly his 3-year-old grandson, but over the weekend it was revealed that Jenkins was a finalist for the superintendent position at Memphis Shelby County Schools in Tennessee.

Alma Advisory Group also applied to lead the search for Memphis superintendent, but the district ultimately went with a different firm.

Jenkins will have been with the district for nearly three years when he leaves his post in July, which will be the shortest tenure of a Madison superintendent  not counting interim leaders  since 1920.

The position has faced a lot of turnover in recent years, and including interim superintendents, Kvistad will the fourth person to lead the Madison School District in the last decade. Whoever assumes the position permanently will be the fifth.

After former Superintendent Jennifer Cheatham announced her retirement from the district in May 2019, it took the board about nine months to find and hire its first choice to fill her shoes. That person eventually backed out, and it took another three months to then hire Jenkins.

The interim superintendent during that search process was Jane Belmore, who served in the role from 2019 to 2020.

Close Jenkins Carlton Jenkins is the new superintendent of the Madison Metropolitan School District. Carlton Jenkins was hired to take over the permanent superintendent position for the 2020-21 school year. He will be tasked with implementing decisions made by interim superintendent Jane Belmore, including facilitating a virtual learning program for at least the first quarter of the school year. Carlton Jenkins, right, and other Madison Metropolitan School District administrative staff took questions from students and families during a Facebook Live broadcast Wednesday. Madison schools Superintendent Carlton Jenkins talks to media before joining a march to address protesters with other Madison leaders in August 2020. New Madison Metropolitan School District Superintendent, Carlton Jenkins, visits the Williams family to apologize and talk about an incident in which a teacher allegedly choked then first-grader, Londyn. MMSD chief of high schools Mike Hernandez and chief of elementary schools Carlettra Stanford also visited the family. Superintendent of the Madison Metropolitan School District Carlton Jenkins was a panelist at the Cap Times Idea Fest session, How will COVID-19 Change K-12 Education? Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins greets kindergartner Audrey Isaac and her father Paul Isaac as they arrive for the first day of in-person learning at Midvale Elementary School on Tuesday. Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins greets kindergartners as they arrive for the first day of in-person learning at Midvale Elementary School in Madison, Tuesday morning. Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins speaks at a press conference with advocates for increased school funding in Wisconsin on Monday, outside the state Capitol building. Madison School District Superintendent Carlton Jenkins stands outside James Wright Middle School. Jenkins' goal is to make the district a prototype for the rest of the nation to follow in an effort to eliminate disparities in educational outcomes between students of color and their white counterparts. Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins, left, talks with Madison Police Department chief Shon Barnes after a Nov. 8 press conference at East High School. Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins speaks at a press conference outside of East High School Monday, Nov. 8, 2021. Superintendent Carlton Jenkins addresses members of the media during a press conference Monday about the fights. He says the behavior displayed by some students is not acceptable. Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins, left, greets soon-to-be-teacher Dianna Murray after she crossed the stage at the district's "signing day" event Thursday. Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins, left, talks with soon-to-be-teacher Christine Gerbitz at the district's "signing day" event. Alicia Grant, center, multicultural student/services coordinator at West High School, talks with Madison School District Superintendent Carlton Jenkins, right, and Nelson Render, chief of secondary schools, during the soul food luncheon organized by West's Black Student Union in March. Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins speaks at a press conference encouraging state legislators to spend some of the budget surplus on education. Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins, left, sits with Ho-Chunk President Marlon WhiteEagle and Ho-Chunk elder Janice Rice during MMSD's land acknowledgement ceremony on Monday. Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carton Jenkins gives Gov. Tony Evers a tour of Aldo Leopold Elementary School following a press conference to announce $90 million of funding for education in Wisconsin on Tuesday, Aug. 30, 2022. Gov. Tony Evers and Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins hold a press conference to announce $90 million of funding for education in Wisconsin at Aldo Leopold Elementary School in Madison on Tuesday. Gov. Tony Evers and Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins hold a press conference announcing $90 million of funding for education in Wisconsin at Aldo Leopold Elementary School in Madison on Tuesday. Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins says goodbye to Gov. Tony Evers after the two co-hosted a press conference to announce $90 million of funding for education in Wisconsin at Aldo Leopold Elementary School in Madison on Tuesday, Aug. 30, 2022. Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins insists that Gov. Tony Evers meets the son of Rep. Francesca Hong (D-Madison) following a press conference at Aldo Leopold Elementary School in Madison on Tuesday, Aug. 30, 2022. Hongs son, George Morris had just finished untying his mothers shoes after he had tied them together during the press conference. He then ducked down the school stairs to retrieve a $5 bill he discovered. Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins takes selfies with the staff at Badger Rock Middle School. Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins takes photos as he visits Badger Rock Middle School in Madison on Thursday. Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins chats with students at Badger Rock Middle School. Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins addresses students as he visits Badger Rock Middle School in Madison for the first day of school on Sept. 1. MMSD superintendent Carlton Jenkins, left, takes a selfie with students, staff and local elected officials at Sandburg Elementary School on Thursday. During his State of the District address, Madison School District Superintendent Carlton Jenkins urged the community to support public schools. Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins delivered his State of the District speech last week at East High School. Madison Superintendent Carlton Jenkins throughout the years Madison Superintendent Carlton Jenkins announced he was retiring this summer after leading the district for nearly three years. Here are photos of him throughout the community. Jenkins Carlton Jenkins is the new superintendent of the Madison Metropolitan School District. Carlton Jenkins was hired to take over the permanent superintendent position for the 2020-21 school year. He will be tasked with implementing decisions made by interim superintendent Jane Belmore, including facilitating a virtual learning program for at least the first quarter of the school year. Carlton Jenkins, right, and other Madison Metropolitan School District administrative staff took questions from students and families during a Facebook Live broadcast Wednesday. Madison schools Superintendent Carlton Jenkins talks to media before joining a march to address protesters with other Madison leaders in August 2020. New Madison Metropolitan School District Superintendent, Carlton Jenkins, visits the Williams family to apologize and talk about an incident in which a teacher allegedly choked then first-grader, Londyn. MMSD chief of high schools Mike Hernandez and chief of elementary schools Carlettra Stanford also visited the family. Superintendent of the Madison Metropolitan School District Carlton Jenkins was a panelist at the Cap Times Idea Fest session, How will COVID-19 Change K-12 Education? Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins greets kindergartner Audrey Isaac and her father Paul Isaac as they arrive for the first day of in-person learning at Midvale Elementary School on Tuesday. Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins greets kindergartners as they arrive for the first day of in-person learning at Midvale Elementary School in Madison, Tuesday morning. Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins speaks at a press conference with advocates for increased school funding in Wisconsin on Monday, outside the state Capitol building. Madison School District Superintendent Carlton Jenkins stands outside James Wright Middle School. Jenkins' goal is to make the district a prototype for the rest of the nation to follow in an effort to eliminate disparities in educational outcomes between students of color and their white counterparts. Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins, left, talks with Madison Police Department chief Shon Barnes after a Nov. 8 press conference at East High School. Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins speaks at a press conference outside of East High School Monday, Nov. 8, 2021. Superintendent Carlton Jenkins addresses members of the media during a press conference Monday about the fights. He says the behavior displayed by some students is not acceptable. Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins, left, greets soon-to-be-teacher Dianna Murray after she crossed the stage at the district's "signing day" event Thursday. Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins, left, talks with soon-to-be-teacher Christine Gerbitz at the district's "signing day" event. Alicia Grant, center, multicultural student/services coordinator at West High School, talks with Madison School District Superintendent Carlton Jenkins, right, and Nelson Render, chief of secondary schools, during the soul food luncheon organized by West's Black Student Union in March. Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins speaks at a press conference encouraging state legislators to spend some of the budget surplus on education. Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins, left, sits with Ho-Chunk President Marlon WhiteEagle and Ho-Chunk elder Janice Rice during MMSD's land acknowledgement ceremony on Monday. Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carton Jenkins gives Gov. Tony Evers a tour of Aldo Leopold Elementary School following a press conference to announce $90 million of funding for education in Wisconsin on Tuesday, Aug. 30, 2022. Gov. Tony Evers and Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins hold a press conference to announce $90 million of funding for education in Wisconsin at Aldo Leopold Elementary School in Madison on Tuesday. Gov. Tony Evers and Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins hold a press conference announcing $90 million of funding for education in Wisconsin at Aldo Leopold Elementary School in Madison on Tuesday. Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins says goodbye to Gov. Tony Evers after the two co-hosted a press conference to announce $90 million of funding for education in Wisconsin at Aldo Leopold Elementary School in Madison on Tuesday, Aug. 30, 2022. Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins insists that Gov. Tony Evers meets the son of Rep. Francesca Hong (D-Madison) following a press conference at Aldo Leopold Elementary School in Madison on Tuesday, Aug. 30, 2022. Hongs son, George Morris had just finished untying his mothers shoes after he had tied them together during the press conference. He then ducked down the school stairs to retrieve a $5 bill he discovered. Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins takes selfies with the staff at Badger Rock Middle School. Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins takes photos as he visits Badger Rock Middle School in Madison on Thursday. Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins chats with students at Badger Rock Middle School. Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins addresses students as he visits Badger Rock Middle School in Madison for the first day of school on Sept. 1. MMSD superintendent Carlton Jenkins, left, takes a selfie with students, staff and local elected officials at Sandburg Elementary School on Thursday. During his State of the District address, Madison School District Superintendent Carlton Jenkins urged the community to support public schools. Madison Metropolitan School District superintendent Carlton Jenkins delivered his State of the District speech last week at East High School.
Chinese vice premier meets Lao deputy prime minister

Xinhua) 08:35, April 18, 2023

Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Lao Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Saleumxay Kommasith in Beijing, capital of China, April 17, 2023. (Xinhua/Liu Weibing)

BEIJING, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang met with Lao Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Saleumxay Kommasith in Beijing on Monday.

Ding, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, called on both countries to work for steady progress in the building of a China-Laos community with a shared future, and bring more benefits to the two peoples.

China is ready to work with Laos to make the China-Laos Railway more promising, continue to deepen people-to-people and cultural exchanges, jointly safeguard regional prosperity and stability, and push for new achievements in practical cooperation, Ding said.

For his part, Saleumxay thanked China for its support and assistance for Laos' economic and social development, adding that Laos firmly supports and actively participates in the major initiatives and concepts proposed by China.

Laos is ready to strengthen bilateral practical cooperation in various fields, build well a Laos-China community with a shared future, and promote the development of the cause of socialism, Saleumxay said.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Wu Chaolan)
MILWAUKEE  A judge found a man accused of opening fire inside a Milwaukee police precinct station not criminally responsible Monday.

Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge David Feiss found Darreon Parker-Bell, 24, not criminally responsible by reason of mental disease or defect on four counts of recklessly endangering safety with use of a dangerous weapon.

Three doctors who examined Parker-Bell since the February 2022 incident determined Parker-Bell suffered from a mental illness that prevented him from controlling his conduct. One doctor indicated Parker-Bell was experiencing severe despair and depression at time of the shooting, and the other doctors had similar findings.

No one at the precinct station was struck by gunfire from Parker-Bell or an officer who returned fire.

The state has asked that Parker-Bell be committed into Wisconsin Department of Health Services custody for 25 to 30 years, but the defense opposes that, so no decision on the matter was made Monday.

Parker-Bell told investigators he fired shots at officers inside the building last year because he was upset over the overdose death in custody days earlier of a friend, Keishon Thomas. Two officers are charged in that case with felony abuse of a person in custody and misdemeanor misconduct in office.

Parker-Bells trial on the charges was scheduled to start Monday.

The cities with the most break-ins and burglaries Cities With the Most Break-Ins / Burglaries Over the past decade burglary and larceny rates have declined Daytime break-ins of homes are most common Southern states experience the most property crime Small and midsize cities with the most burglaries 15. Dallas, TX 14. Houston, TX 13. Las Vegas, NV 12. Columbus, OH 11. Minneapolis, MN 10. Milwaukee, WI 9. Wichita, KS 8. Kansas City, MO 7. Oklahoma City, OK 6. Bakersfield, CA 5. Seattle, WA 4. Baltimore, MD 3. Detroit, MI 2. Tulsa, OK 1. Memphis, TN
RIPON  Officials in Ripon have moved the building where the Republican Party is said to have been founded across town to boost visibility as conservatives descend on the state for the GOP national convention next year.

Workers moved the Little White Schoolhouse to its new location Monday, WLUK-TV reported.

The Ripon Chamber of Commerce owns the building. The chambers executive director, Mandy Kimes, told the television station the new location will increase visibility and access as visitors arrive in the state for the GOP national convention in Milwaukee next summer. Ripon is about 85 miles northwest of Milwaukee.

We really want to keep the Little White Schoolhouse as unaltered as possible, Kimes said. And so having this other location ... were going to be able to turn that into a visitors center where people can come in, have an experience, learn what theyre about to see and really enjoy it.

The building has been moved six times in its history. Mondays move was the first since 1951.

Timothy Bachleitner, chairman of the Fond du Lac County Republican Party, said hes disappointed with the move and the schoolhouses new location.

The Wisconsin Historical Society sent a letter to local, state and national officials on March 20 warning that the schoolhouse would lose its National Historic Landmark and National Register of Historic Places designations if it was moved.

According to the Ripon Historical Society, the schoolhouse was built in 1853. The following year, several men who opposed slavery met there and created the Republican Party. The building was later remodeled into a private home. Former Wisconsin Gov. George Beck once lived in it.

See the Wisconsin State Journal photo staff's favorites of 2022
Nobody was hurt during the 2020 incident, but some who were not involved were nearly struck by bullets.
KHARTOUM, Sudan  As explosions and gunfire thundered outside, Sudanese in the capital Khartoum and other cities huddled in their homes for a third day Monday, while the army and a powerful rival force battled in the streets for control of the country.

At least 185 people were killed and over 1,800 wounded since the fighting erupted, U.N. envoy Volker Perthes told reporters. The two sides are using tanks, artillery and other heavy weapons in densely populated areas. Fighter jets swooped overhead and anti-aircraft fire lit up the skies as darkness fell.

The toll could be much higher because there are many bodies in the streets in central Khartoum that no one can reach because of the clashes.

There has been no official word on how many civilians or combatants have been killed. The doctors' syndicate earlier put the number of civilian deaths at 97.

The outbreak of violence over the weekend between the nation's two top generals, each backed by tens of thousands of heavily armed fighters, trapped millions of people in their homes or wherever they could find shelter, with supplies running low and several hospitals forced to shut down.

Top diplomats on four continents scrambled to broker a truce, and the U.N. Security Council was set to discuss the crisis.

"Gunfire and shelling are everywhere," Awadeya Mahmoud Koko, head of a union for thousands of tea vendors and other food workers, said from her home in a southern district of Khartoum.

She said a shell stuck a neighbor's house Sunday, killing at least three people. "We couldn't take them to a hospital or bury them."

At least 88 students and staffers were trapped in the engineering college library at Khartoum University since the start of fighting, one of the students said in a video posted online Monday. One student was killed during clashes outside and another wounded, he said. They do not have food or water, he said, showing a room full of people sleeping on the floor.

Even in a country with a long history of military coups, the scenes of fighting in the capital and adjoining city Omdurman across the Nile River were unprecedented.

The power struggle pits Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan, the commander of the armed forces, against Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, the head of the Rapid Support Forces, a paramilitary group. The former allies jointly orchestrated an October 2021 military coup. The violence raised the specter of civil war just as Sudanese were trying to revive the drive for a democratic, civilian government after decades of military rule.

A third of the population  around 16 million people  depends on humanitarian assistance in the resource-rich nation, Africa's third largest.

Under international pressure, Burhan and Dagalo recently agreed to a framework agreement with political parties and pro-democracy groups, but the signing was delayed as tensions rose over the integration of the RSF into the armed forces and the future chain of command.

The U.S., the U.N. and others called for a truce. Egypt, which backs Sudan's military, and Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates  which forged close ties to the RSF in recent years as it sent thousands of fighters to support their war in Yemen  also called for both sides to stand down.

Both generals have thus far dug in, demanding the other's surrender and ruling out negotiations.

The European Union's foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, tweeted that the EU ambassador to Sudan "was assaulted in his own residency" without providing further details. EU officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Dagalo, whose forces grew out of the notorious Janjaweed militias in Sudan's Darfur region, portrayed himself as a defender of democracy and branded Burhan as the aggressor and a "radical Islamist." Both generals have a long history of human rights abuses and crackdowns on pro-democracy activists.

Heavy gunbattles raged in multiple parts of the capital and Omdurman, where the two sides have brought in tens of thousands of troops.

Twelve hospitals in the capital area were "forcefully evacuated" and are "out of service" because of attacks or power outages, the Sudan Doctors' Syndicate said, out of a total of about 20 hospitals. Four other hospitals outside the capital also shut down, it said late Monday.

Residents said fierce fighting raged Monday afternoon in the Gabra neighborhood southwest of Khartoum. People were trapped and screaming inside their homes, said Asmaa al-Toum, a physician living in the area.

The military on Monday claimed it secured the main television building in Omdurman, fending off the RSF after days of fighting. State-run Sudan TV resumed broadcasting.

The military and RSF were also fighting in most major centers around the country, including in the western Darfur region and parts of the north and east, and around a strategic airbase in Merowe.

Hadia Saeed said she and her three children were sheltering in one room of their home for fear of the shelling as gunfire rattled across their Bahri district in north Khartoum. They have food for a few more days, but "after that we don't know what to do," she said.

Photos: Sudan battles intensify
Recently, the Missouri House of Representatives passed a budget that eliminated aid to local libraries amid a dispute over the constitutionality of a state ban on explicit material in public schools. Last month, legislators in Tennessee approved a law restricting drag performances on public property or anywhere minors might be present. Over the past few years, Florida governor Ron DeSantis has presided over a series of policies attempting to eradicate critical race theory and other ideas associated with the political left from school curriculums.

The controversies over these and similar measures dont merely demonstrate how acrimonious todays culture wars have become. They also reveal how much politics has become an intergenerational battle, with older traditionalists against younger progressives.

The idea of a yawning generation gap tends to evoke associations with the bygone 1960s. But Americans are actually much more politically divided by age today than they were when Bob Dylan was warning the nations parents that your sons and your daughters are beyond your command. In the 1968 presidential election, voters under the age of 30 preferred Democratic nominee Hubert Humphrey to Republican opponent Richard Nixon by 9 percentage points, according to Gallup, while voters aged 50 or more opted for Nixon by 6 points.

Half a century later, according to survey data from the Pew Research Center, Joe Biden prevailed over Donald Trump by 24 points among voters under 30 and by 12 points among voters aged 30 to 49, even as Trump carried the over-50 vote by 5 points.

Young adults are not always liberal. Most voters under 35 supported Ronald Reagan and George H. W. Bush in the 1980s, and age differences in partisan preferences were fairly minor as late as the 2000 election.

But over the past two decades, the generations have increasingly separated themselves politically. Barack Obama was much more popular, and Donald Trump much less popular, among younger voters than among their elders. Issues of race, gender and sexuality that divide voters along generational lines have become more central to the nations political debates. And changing demographic trends have ensured that millennials and members of Generation Z are much less likely than the middle-aged or elderly to identify as White, attend church regularly, or live in a rural area.

Conservatives are well aware that many younger Americans disagree with them politically. Negative characterizations of young adults as naive radicals who dont understand the real world, or coddled snowflakes who demand special treatment, are common on conservative media platforms and circulate widely on Facebook, the older internet users social network of choice.

Many conservative leaders see younger generations relative liberalism as the result of the pernicious influence of left-aligned public institutions and industries. DeSantis and other Republican officials frequently defend their efforts to regulate social media platforms and gain control over state educational systems as necessary to dismantle liberal propaganda machines. Former Wisconsin governor Scott Walker blamed the recent defeat of a conservative candidate in a state Supreme Court race  an election in which turnout among college students was unusually high  on years of radical indoctrination on campus, in school, with social media, and throughout culture.

Framing todays politics as intergenerational warfare may provide Republicans with some short-term advantages. Appealing to older citizens can help win elections, as they are always the most reliable voters. The aging of the large baby boomer cohort also ensures that the median age of the national electorate will continue to increase.

But there are also risks to this approach. If Republicans could reduce the current Democratic advantage among rising generations before it further solidifies into a lifelong partisan attachment, it would pay electoral dividends for decades to come. Its hard to imagine that Republican leaders will achieve much success by treating young adults political views with contempt or characterizing them as gullible victims of liberal brainwashing. Reversing the leftward drift of the young will probably require much more than removing some books  or drag queens  from the nations schools and libraries.
In addition to the lavish trips previously reported, ProPublica has now revealed that, in 2014, right-wing billionaire Harlan Crow bought a Savannah house and lots part-owned by Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, where the jurists mother still lived. If the earlier unreported trips were legally dubious, this undeclared purchase much more clearly violated disclosure laws, and lawmakers like Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I., are right to call for an investigation.

Some commentators love straining themselves into ridiculous slippery slope scenarios around holding powerful people to basic accountability. What sort of precedent does it set for the Senate to investigate a Supreme Court justice who flagrantly violated the law? If one of the most powerful officials in the United States can be held to scrutiny for decades of ethically questionable behavior that skirted close to and sometimes cleanly crossed into illegality, where does it all end?

This might sound like snark, but it is the argument that some people are making, and it doesnt hold up. Despite the efforts to conflate these inquiries with political wild goose chases of the kind that GOP House members in particular have refined over the last several years, theres a simple distinction. There is plenty of evidence to suggest wrongdoing, and an inquiry is about producing the totality of that evidence and determining consequences.

Lets use a helpful alternate scenario: Lets say instead of Harlan Crow, the billionaire was George Soros, and instead of Thomas, the justice was Sonia Sotomayor, with all other factors being more or less the same. Soros has spent decades flying Sotomayor to the Maldives in his private jet, and 10 years ago bought a Bronx apartment where her elderly mother had been living, none of which Sotomayor disclosed.

Does that at all change your perspective about whether an inquiry is appropriate? If so, then perhaps your perspective is less about accountability and more about politics. Investigate Thomas, and if he really does have a decadeslong record of malfeasance (going back to his confirmation), perhaps he doesnt belong on the court.
So maybe Jack Teixeira, a lowly 21-year-old enlisted man in the Massachusetts Air National Guard still living at his moms house, thought it was wicked cool to share some info he had seen at work at a Cape Cod Air Force base with his online pals, most of whom are kids living in their own moms houses.

Thats fine for this pathetic character to build himself up to impress some teen losers in their chat group on Discord, but that he used stolen highly classified national defense documents aint cool and we trust that young Airman Teixeira will soon enough be serving in a different uniform at a different kind of federal facility.

Teixeira allegedly committed serious federal felonies, not for money like a traitor selling out his country or because his politics were opposed to Washingtons actions or even to be a whistleblower exposing what he thought was wrong, but to show off to his internet pals.

And for that, the national security of the United States and our allies, like the brave Ukrainians trying to hold off the invading Russians, have been put at risk. How stupid is this?

Teixeira and his lawyers will become very familiar with 18 U.S.C. 793, also known as the Espionage Act. The unauthorized removal, retention, and transmission of classified national defense information is a serious offense that can bring 10 years in prison for each document leaked, no matter the motivation, be it money from the Kremlin or an online bragging session.

Now that the damaging leaker has been found, the Pentagon must examine how it vets the people who are given access to such sensitive secrets. The feds only realized that something was amiss when one of the Thug Shaker Central guys, be it Teixeira or another sad case, let the secrets spill beyond their little group. Are there other such secret thieves out there who are being more careful in covering their tracks?
In one of the most pleasantly bizarre bipartisan pairings, Democratic Sen. Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota has joined forces with hardline conservative Louisiana Sen. John Kennedy supporting the Journalism Competition and Preservation Act.

Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle increasingly recognize the threat to the survival of local independent journalism posed by social media platforms that are dipping into local publications content but keeping the advertising revenues all to themselves.

The internet long ago began luring news consumers away from standard news organizations, primarily print subscribers, forcing those entities to rely more and more on advertising revenues for their survival. But then the advertising started drifting away to major social media platforms, adding an additional budget squeeze that has pushed thousands of local journalism outlets to the brink of collapse.

The result has been drastically pared newsroom staffing over the years. Its been no secret that the Post-Dispatch is among those news organizations caught in the pinch.

For all the complaints about news media bias, lawmakers in Washington recognize that strong local journalism constitutes a pillar of democracy. When news organizations have to close or pare back their coverage, the risk grows that corrupt practices in government and business will go undetected and unreported. Public meetings in which important government decisions are made might go uncovered.

Legislatures can pass bills detrimental to the public good or designed to serve special interests, but if no one is there to cover it, members of the public are left in the dark.

Local papers  are the heart and soul of journalism, and they break the news that millions of Americans rely on every day, Kennedy said in a statement. However, tech giants like Facebook and Google are hammering local publications by keeping them from making a profit on Big Tech platforms  and its killing local journalism.

It matters hugely that someone with the strong conservative credentials of Kennedy is willing to step up in defense of the news media. Others include Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina.

The bill would allow news organizations with fewer than 1,500 total employees to bargain collectively to force more equitable revenue sharing with the big social media companies. Without collective bargaining permission from Congress, those organizations could be subject to prosecution under federal antitrust laws.

The same bill, with 90 cosponsors in the House and Senate, was on the verge of passage in Congress last year when Facebook threatened harsh retaliation. Congress these days seems far more inclined to stand up against Big Tech, and the industrys own budgetary pinch has prompted massive layoffs, making the industry seem politically less formidable than before.

Any member of the public who wants to preserve journalistic checks and balances should urge members of Congress to stand up to Big Tech and pass the Journalism Competition and Preservation Act.
After the collapse of two different banks in less than a week in early March, it was clear to see how financial panic can quickly spread through word of mouth.

"No matter how strong bank capital and liquidity supervision are, if a bank has an overwhelming run thats spurred by social media or whatever so that its seeing deposits flee at that pace, a bank can be put in danger of failing, U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said recently about the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank in Santa Clara, California, and Signature Bank in New York.

In this case, the whatever was private group messages and chats among SVB's customers. Chatter and warnings about SVBs stability started in these forums and spread to Twitter; after the run on SVB, Signature Banks customers did a run on their bank, as well.

What can we learn from the bank runs, and how we can handle widespread financial panic in the future? Here are five things to do when bank-run panic  or any other drastic financial move  is trending.

1. Consider the source

If youre hearing on TV or on social media that nows the time to take some kind of action with your money, examine who is making the recommendation. Consider whether the source is credible or is selling a course or a product. That could be incentive for them to cause a panic that would lead to making them money, says Jason Co, a certified financial planner and the founder of Co Planning Group, which provides retirement planning and investment advice in the St. Louis area.

2. Assess if the buzzy topic really affects you

How juicy is this headline? Thats the question that Ginger Ames, CFP and founder of financial planning firm Whisper Financial in Oakland, California, says to ask yourself when theres a financial trend in the news. The juicier the headline, the more likely it is to get exaggerated, she says. When news gets sensationalized, it can make you feel like you need to take action but consider how likely it is that youll be affected by the issue youre hearing about.

Even if its just one person, such as a public figure you admire or trust, making a financial recommendation, consider whether the advice is meant specifically for you. Theres no way one person can give the best advice for everyone, Co says.

For example, even if you hear from trusted sources that consumers are going on bank runs, it doesn't mean that your bank is going to fail. Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank may have collapsed, but they were just two of the more than 4,700 Federal Deposit Insurance Corp.-insured banks in the country.

And you generally dont need to worry about withdrawing from your bank accounts if your money falls within the FDIC-insured limit, which is $250,000 per depositor, per bank, per account ownership category (such as joint or single accounts). If youre banking above this limit, spread your deposits across different banks and use other strategic moves to insure all of your money.

3. Educate yourself and cut out the noise

The more education you have on a topic, the less likely you are to be swayed by opinion, Ames says. Learning about personal finance through self-study, talking to money professionals and discussing it with peers can help you better decide when its a good idea to take action with your money and when its not.

You can also reduce your exposure to news, she says. If looking at headlines and doom scrolling is inciting you to make moves with your money, take a step back. Cut out or limit your news intake to once a day, if possible.

Remember that just because a lot of people are saying the same thing, it doesn't mean they're correct. It doesnt mean theyre right, it just means theyre loud, says Ames.

4. Use your best judgment or talk with a trusted professional

As with anything thats suddenly popular, use your best judgment to decide if a financial decision is right for you. If you dont trust your own judgment, work with a financial advisor who can understand your situation, understand what your goals are, and help bring a long-term perspective to your financial life, Co says.

5. Stick to your plan

Its good to have a strategy in place for your money before any kind of financial panic starts spreading. Have a plan so that your plan determines your actions for you, Ames says. Have a set trigger and a set action that you can always fall back on, so youre not just acting out of emotion in the moment.

Co, too, says that everything should come back to your personal financial plan  and remembering to maintain a long-term outlook. Fads and news cycles come and go, but your financial actions should remain aligned with your plans for your future.

Ruth Sarreal writes for NerdWallet. Email: rsarreal@nerdwallet.com.

The article What to Do When Bank-Run Panic Sweeps Social Media originally appeared on NerdWallet.
TWIN FALLS  As part of a statewide tour to go over changes in school funding, policies and rules, Superintendent of Public Instruction Debbie Critchfield was here Monday to talk about potential outcomes following the 2023 legislative session.

More than 100 local administrators, superintendents, school board trustees and business managers attended the day-long session at the College of Southern Idaho to learn about changes that would take effect on July 1.

Its really important for us to communicate with our districts and our business managers on the details of what their budgeting process is going to look like based on appropriations, Critchfield told the Times-News before the session.

The Twin Falls visit was one of six stops in each region of the state, in what has been an annual event. It was the first such tour for Critchfield since her inauguration in January.

In addition to questions about funding, Critchfield said several sample policies were being prepared that districts could use as guidance to meet new rules, like displaying the national motto, policies on bathrooms and parental notification.

Attendance vs. enrollment

The return to using average daily attendance as a funding formula was one of the first things Critchfield addressed while speaking to the assembled administrators.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, when students attended school through a combination of in-person and remote learning, funding was changed from an average daily attendance formula to an enrollment-based formula.

Now, average daily attendance formula is back, and it has caused some concern for schools whose attendance since the pandemic has not returned to pre-COVID levels.

The discrepancy between what they had been getting and what they will get is enough that it is causing some concern, Critchfield told the Times-News.

Investing in Idaho: Gov. Little takes victory lap after legislative session Gov. Brad Little tallied up the gains made for education as he looked back on the first 100 days of his second term while visiting the College of Southern Idaho.

For the past three years, Gov. Brad Little would make a recommendation for school appropriation, the Legislature would pass an appropriation, and then, Critchfield said, schools would approach the Board of Education requesting a temporary suspension of the attendance-based formula.

We need to end the cycle, Critchfield told the assembled administrators. I wish that I could say heres the fix, (but) we dont know yet.

Critchfield said it was an active conversation, and more work would be done over the summer to help address concerns by the June budget-setting period. In the meantime, Critchfield encouraged administrators to build budgets that included no enrollment-based allocations.

The impacts such a change could have on districts adds up quickly. As Idaho Education News recently reported, the states return to average daily attendance could mean eliminating positions in Twin Falls schools.

That will have a dramatic impact on us in terms of staffing, Brady Dickinson, the Twin Falls superintendent, told Idaho Education News. If we go back to ADA, were going to have to reduce somewhere around 35 teacher or counselor positions.

Financial literacy requirement

With the passage of House Bill 92, financial literacy is now a requirement for high school graduation, and Critchfield outlined how the half-credit class pairs well with economics, another half-credit class. Districts have the option to pair the class in other ways, too, she added.

Since the state does not offer a financial literacy teaching certification, Critchfield said any Idaho-certified teacher can isntruct the class, be it math, science, economics, or even physical education.

Career Ready Students Fund

While highlighting the Career Ready Students Fund, Critchfield used the Twin Falls High School welding class as an example. The class is so popular, she said, that the school turns away 100 students every year.

The purpose of the fund is to make $45 million available, with $5 million for career technical education.

There are places where the only reason that we dont have working technical programs outside of our most urban areas  it comes down to funding. Critchfield said.

This bill will allow districts the ability to get funds for career-ready programs, whether that means building a new 10,000-square-foot shop, adding a greenhouse, or purchasing equipment.

The funding will be available starting July 1, and she encouraged districts to have ideas ready to go.
Russias foreign minister met in Brazil on Monday with President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, as Washington criticized the South American leaders recent remarks on US defense support for Ukraine.

Lula is fresh off a trip to China and the United Arab Emirates, during which he raised eyebrows in the West by accusing the United States of encouraging the war in Ukraine.

He also said the United States and Europe need to start talking about peace, and that Kyiv shares the blame for the conflict.

Sergei Lavrov, Russias top diplomat, thanked Lula on Monday for his offer to mediate peace talks on the 14-month war.

But the visit, and Lulas recent remarks, sparked criticism from the White House, which has led support for Ukraine.

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In this case, Brazil is parroting Russian and Chinese propaganda without at all looking at the facts, US National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters.

Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira, who met with Lavrov earlier in the day, shot back later, saying: I dont know how or why he reached that conclusion but I do not agree at all.

Lulas visit to China and the UAE, postponed by a bout of pneumonia, came after a meeting with US President Joe Biden in February.

Brazil has not joined Western nations in imposing sanctions on Russia for its invasion, and has refused requests to supply ammunition to Ukraine.

Before the trip, Lula had proposed creating a group of countries to mediate in the war, and said he would discuss this in Beijing.

After meeting with his Brazilian counterpart on Monday, Lavrov said: We are grateful to our Brazilian friends for their clear understanding of the genesis of the situation (in Ukraine). We are grateful for their desire to contribute to finding ways of settling this situation.

We are interested in resolving the conflict as soon as possible, Lavrov said.

But he added that any solution would have to be based on multipolarity, accusing the West of trying to dominate the international arena.

Lavrovs trip to Brazil comes after Lulas top foreign policy adviser, Celso Amorim, met with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin in March to discuss opening peace talks.

Brazil is Lavrovs first stop on a weeklong Latin American tour that will also include Venezuela, Nicaragua and Cuba  countries whose leftist governments have hostile relations with the United States.

Lavrov and Vieira said their talks had also focused on energy and trade.

About a quarter of agricultural powerhouse Brazils fertilizer imports come from Russia, while the two countries engaged in a record $9.8 billion in bilateral trade last year.

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Award-winning digital challenger bank Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation has forged a partnership with the countrys largest non-bank financial institution MLhuillier.

The partnership entails the deployment of RCBCs handheld and Philippines first community and last mile RCBC ATM Go terminals to over 3,000 MLhuillier branches nationwide.

RCBC ATM Go is an award-winning digital innovation that has the most extensive reach covering all 82 provinces with close to 70% of its financial transactions servicing millions worth of social aid or ayuda of the national governments 4Ps/CCT or the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program beneficiaries.

By partnering with MLhuillier, we combine our unmatched strengths, expertise, and reach to create a more comprehensive suite of financial services that close the gap for underserved Filipinos. This partnership is beneficial not only for our customers but for the country, as we work towards a more financially inclusive Philippines, said Lito Villanueva, RCBC Executive Vice President and Chief Innovation and Inclusion Officer.

Present during the signing are (from left) executives from M Lhuillier Financial Services Inc.: Cecilia Lumapas, Money Transfer Services Manager; Michael James Lhuillier, Chief Financial Officer; Michael Lhuillier, President & CEO; Helen Y. Dee, RCBC Chairperson; Eugene S. Acevedo, RCBC President & Chief Executive Officer; Lito Villanueva, RCBC Executive Vice President & Chief Innovation & Inclusion Officer; and Aaron Giberson, Digital Channels Department Head.

This is very important because it goes hand in hand with what MLhuillier stands for. Our services are scattered throughout the country with more than 3,000 M Lhuillier branches, and what we do is really to provide financial inclusion to the mass base of Filipinos. So, today with RCBC and this technology of POS devices, people will be able to come in for their ayuda or social benefits from the government. This is something we are excited to roll out together as we use their technology and our technology to provide financial services to the country, said Michael Lhuillier, President and CEO of MLhuillier.

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This collaboration is very strategic and part of our objective of further expanding our reach in all provinces around the country. While we already covered the entire 82 provinces nationwide, we want to further fortify that and strengthen it with more outlets. With MLhuilliers massive network, it would definitely be of value, especially in reaching out while providing responsive and responsible financial access to our unbanked and reserved Filipinos. M Lhuillier will definitely be RCBCs extension in reaching out to those communities, especially in the geographically-isolated and disadvantaged areas, Villanueva added.

The RCBC ATM Go will be launched in all the branches of MLhuillier. We are talking of more than 3000 M Lhuillier branches nationwide and with the RCBC ATM Go present in our locations, the customers will really have the advantage of going to a bank because the RCBC ATM Go serves as an ATM to help people in remote areas. They need not go to the city anymore to withdraw or even deposit cash. So, this is really beneficial to the people said Cecilia Lumapas, Money Transfer Services Manager, when asked about the benefit of the RCBC ATM Go being stationed in all their branches for its loyal customers.

RCBC ATM Go has recorded impressive fintech-like growth with 2022 revenues and gross transaction value increasing up to 59% and 44%, respectively. The pioneering service has also recorded a five-year revenue compounded annual growth rate of 48% with partner merchants growth at 31%.

RCBC ATM Go is part of the challenger banks suite of digital innovations aimed at providing Filipinos with an easy, accessible, and convenient digital finance system that matches Filipinos growing needs. The continuous development of RCBCs digital offerings has cemented the banks position as the leading digital challenger bank in the country.

RCBC is one of the countrys fastest-growing banks, and the most awarded for its banking innovations. It is now the Philippines 5th largest privately-owned universal bank from 8th place in asset ranking in 2018. It accomplished and maintained this feat from 2020 to the present, even breaching the P1-Trillion asset mark by the end of June 2022 despite the COVID-19 pandemic and various investment activities by competition. RCBCs continuing digital and business transformation further enhanced its value and reach. RCBC has now become the most awarded Philippines bank. Among its recognitions include a three-peat award as the Philippines Best Bank for Digital by Asiamoney, back-to-back wins for Best Financial Inclusion App by The Asian Bankers Financial Technology Innovations Awards, Grand Champion for Digital Payments and Financial Inclusion by Bankers Institute of the Philippines Inc., and the YouTube challenger award for its viral and out-of-the-box digital ad campaigns generating combined views of over 17 million.

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TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan  In protest to the construction of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) facilities in the province, about 7,000 Cagayanos gathered at the Freedom Park (Rizal Park) for a prayer rally organized by the Prayer for Peace Cagayan Movement.

Tuao Mayor William N. Mamba expressed his concern over the EDCA sites construction, emphasizing the harm it will do to the Cagayano populace.

We plead for a miracle that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. may alter his mind about EDCA, Mayor Mamba stressed.

Mayor Isidro Cabaddu of Camalanuigan expressed his displeasure over the development of the US facility, located nearby to them in the town of Lal-lo. He expressed his complete support for Governor Manuel Mamba, who first opposed the sites.

Governor Mamba remarked at the prayer gathering that EDCA is just war amid rising tensions between China and Taiwan, which is just 200 kilometers from the province.

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We want Cagayan to be the center of agro-industrial hubs in the international port, not the center of foreign military bases whose clear objective is to enable war between America and China, he said.

Foreign investors from China, South Korea, Japan, and even Taiwan will be wary of investing in Cagayan out of concern that it will turn into a stronghold in Americas battle, Mamba said.

Mayor Leonel Guzman of the town of Piat said: My presence alone would be sufficient to show that I oppose EDCA.

We were very fortunate we had a governor who can stand for what is right for the province, he said.

Thank you for being there, governor, and standing for what you believe is good for every Cagayano, Mayor Guzman emphasized.

Mayor Nelson P. Robinion, who is worried about the EDCA facility being built in Sta. Ana that US troops would access, gave his support to Governor Mamba.

He noted that a prayer demonstration is set to take place in Sta. Ana.

Robinion bemoaned the fact that, like the governor, he had never been informed of any EDCA intentions or activities in the area.

Board Member Rodrigo De Asis urged each one to pray and stand in solidarity with the governor as he struggles to block US access to the province.

All other officials who spoke publicly expressed their dismay over the EDCA and resistance to its development, stressing the detrimental consequences it will have on the Cagayano populace.

Dr. Susan Perez-Mari from the University of Cagayan Valley, Mr. Christian Tutu Guzman from the Medical Colleges of Northern Philippines, Mr. PJ Lappay from Saint Paul University, a senior citizens association representative, and Board Member Christian Ursua from the Sangguniang Kabataan also delivered remarks.

Also included are the barangay officials of Amulung East and Tuao; SB Members of Pamplona, Claveria, and Tuao; delegates from Baggao, Iguig, Piat, and Tuguegarao City; Agkaykaysa Members of Penablanca Members from Penablanca.

It includes agriculture sector, women sector, academe civil society group, senior citizens group, youth sector, and ecumenical group.

To promote community harmony and peace, Clarita Lunas, one of the convenors, said they planned a prayer rally after learning that two EDCA sites are slated in Cagayan, one at the Naval Base Camilo Osias in Santa Ana and one at the Lal-lo Airport.

The organization has announced intentions to hold several prayer rallies for peace in various towns.

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FAREWELL, ADR. Former Foreign Affairs Secretary and Ambassador to the US Albert del Rosario passed away Tuesday morning at the age of 83.

Former Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, one of the countrys staunchest advocates of Philippine sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea, passed away on Tuesday, He was 83.

The family of Ambassador Albert Ferreros del Rosario is deeply saddened to announce his passing today, April 18, his family said in a statement.

The family requests privacy during this difficult time. Details will be released at a later date, the statement added.

The Department of Foreign Affairs said Del Rosario, who spearheaded the Philippines successful arbitration case against China in 2016, died while en route to San Franciso.

Please pray for the eternal repose of the soul of Ambassador del Rosario, who passed away on April 18, 2023 at the age of 83. He was a MAP member for 45 years. Wake and internment details will be announced later, the management group, which he was president of in 2007, said in a statement.

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The former DFA chief contributed many opinion articles and thought pieces on the maritime issue and national defense in general to several publications, including the Manila Standard.

He was also Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Stratbase ADR Institute, providing guidance and direction to the numerous policy studies and advocacies that the Institute advances.

It is with profound sadness that we at the Stratbase Group offer our deepest condolences to the family of our beloved Chairperson, Ambassador Albert F. del Rosario, the organization said in a statement posted on its Facebook page.

It has been an honor to work with a leader who personified the highest level of statesmanship, integrity, and love of country that has inspired us to sustain the strategically critical advocacies of the Stratbase Albert del Rosario Institute for Strategic and International Studies, it added.

(Del Rosario) has been a champion of democratic values and a rules-based international order to sustain lasting peace, security, and prosperity for all. He has fought for an independent foreign policy that prioritizes the interests of the country and of the Filipino people.

He believed that diplomacy is a great equalizer in international affairs and that each state had an equal voice in the global community regardless of their political, economic, or military capabilities, it added.

This is a shared passion that we are committed to honor and pursue. With heartfelt gratitude and love. Rest in peace, ADR, Stratbase said.

Ambassador del Rosario was born in Manila to Luis del Rosario and Amparo Ferreros. His great grandmother Teresa Sempio was a sister of Felipa Sempio, the mother of Gregorio del Pilar. His grandfather, Judge Simplicio Sempio del Rosario, was a delegate to the Malolos Congress.

Albert del Rosario attended Xavier High School in New York City and subsequently graduated from New York University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics.

He was the former Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines from February 2011 to March 2016 under the administration of President Benigno Simeon Aquino III. He also served as Philippine Ambassador to the United States of America from October 2001 to August 2006.

Del Rosario-led arbitration case resulted in the 2016 legal victory for the Philippines where the United Nations-backed Permanent Court of Arbitration declared illegal Chinas massive claims over the South China Sea and upheld the countrys exclusive economic zone in the West Philippine Sea.

During his stint as the countrys top diplomat, Del Rosario has endeared himself to many DFA employees and the Philippine media because of his mild manners, steady but firm policy positions, low voice and kind heart.

Del Rosario is survived by his wife, Gretchen, and their children.

In a GMA News report, the former DFA chiefs colleagues, officers and staff who worked with Del Rosario described him as a hands-on and hardworking diplomat  whether he is leading dangerous missions in war zones to oversee the evacuation of thousands of trapped Filipino workers, promoting the national interest, or defending the countrys territory in the South China Sea before the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague.

Diplomats and employees said Del Rosario, who is among the wealthiest Cabinet member of then-President Benigno Noynoy Aquino III, has refused to collect his monthly salaries while he was serving as DFA Secretary.

Instead, he quietly distributed his accumulated monthly pay equally to the more than 1,600, senior diplomats, officers, and employees of the DFA as cash gifts every Christmas since he assumed the post in 2011.

According to them, Del Rosario also used his own personal money to pay for the gasoline of the cars that he used at work and official functions.

In February 2016, Del Rosario has told then-President Aquino that he is stepping down from his post due to health reasons.

Del Rosario has long been suffering from a spinal problem, a debilitating condition, which worsened for several months before he stepped down from office. He went on medical leave in May 2015 for a back surgery in the United States which turned unsuccessful.

His health problems were further complicated by a previously undetected heart condition that required his doctors to hurriedly install a pacemaker to regulate his heartbeat in a Metro Manila hospital.

However, his health conditions did not discourage Del Rosario to perform his delicate tasks, including the repatriation of large numbers of overseas Filipino workers and residents who have been trapped in conflict-torn Arab states like Libya and Syria.

A strong critic of China, Del Rosario initiated the filing of a landmark Philippine government arbitration case that challenged the validity of Chinas massive territorial claims in the South China Sea and sought to clarify the territorial entitlements of certain Chinese-occupied features under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Seas, or UNCLOS.

At present, the Philippine arbitration case has been praised as a rules-based and internationally accepted solution of the long-dragging conflict by several governments led by the United States, Japan, Australia, the European Union, but ignored by China due to what it described as baseless and lacking in legal merit.

On July 12, 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, Netherlands delivered a sweeping victory to the Philippines on the case it filed against China in 2013 and declared Chinas claim over nearly the entire South China Sea as illegal. China does not recognize the ruling and insists indisputable historic rights over nearly the entire waters.

In June 2019, Del Rosario was barred from entering Hong Kong after being held by immigration authorities for six hours.

Denied entry with no explanation after 6-hour hold, Del Rosario, who was supposed to attend a business meeting there, said then.

But his health condition prompted him to finally decide to leave Aquinos Cabinet earlier than planned. He originally intended to leave government at the same time with Aquino, whose six-year term ended in June 2016.

Del Rosario then told the media that he decided to set aside his businesses to serve in government out of his admiration for President Aquino, whom he describes as a man of integrity.

During his stint at DFA, Del Rosario crossed to war zones and to battle frontlines abroad to help oversee the rescue and repatriation of OFWs trapped in the crossfire.

A few days after he was appointed by Aquino as DFA chief in February 2011, Del Rosario immediately hit the ground running when he flew with a few diplomats to strife-torn Libya to lead the rescue of thousands of trapped OFWs. He traveled to Libyas frontlines twice that year.

In his first mission, Del Rosario described how his convoy passed near an area where gunshots rang out and how he prayed for the workers with him in the convoy, saying he couldnt live in peace if even one of them got hurt. They all survived.

Diplomats say Del Rosario kept them awake with coffee and burgers bought from a popular burger chain.

He also played crucial role in discreetly negotiating with Indonesian officials to spare Filipino worker Mary Jane Veloso from imminent execution by firing squad earlier in the year. He backed President Aquinos quiet efforts to convince Indonesias top officials to save Veloso.

Veloso, a 30-year-old mother of two, was among the nine foreign and local death row prisoners, including Australians, scheduled to be executed by firing squad on April 29, 2015 for drug-related charges. All eight were executed, but Veloso was spared from death at the last minute.

With his advocacy for a rules-based solution based on international laws on the South China Sea and other issues, Del Rosario emerged as a key and outspoken leader in the ASEAN, where some of his counterparts have traditionally taken conservative and safe but ineffective policy positions, according to diplomats.

Aside from his hyperactive foreign diplomacy work, many DFA reforms were initiated to ease public burdens, including the opening of DFA satellite offices in shopping malls to bring consular services, including passport applications, closer to the people.

Del Rosario was also implemented a merit-based promotion system at the DFA to filter out entry into the department of personnel endorsed by powerful politicians, bringing the number of those political appointees in the DFA at an all-time low during his watch.

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Former Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary and Ambassador to the United States Albert del Rosario died on Tuesday, according to his family and announced by the Management Association of the Philippines. He was 83.

The family of Ambassador Albert Ferreros del Rosario is deeply saddened to announce his passing today, April 18, the family said in a statement.



The family requests privacy during this difficult time. Details will be released at a later date, it added.

Please pray for the eternal repose of the soul of Ambassador del Rosario, who passed away on April 18, 2023 at the age of 83. He was a MAP member for 45 years. Wake and interment details will be announced later, the management group, which he was president of in 2007, said in its announcement.



Del Rosario spearheaded the successful arbitration case that resulted in the 2016 legal victory for the Philippines over China on the South China Sea territorial disputes.

He contributed many opinion and thought pieces on the maritime issue and national defense in general to several publications, including the Manila Standard.

He was also Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Stratbase ADR Institute, providing guidance and direction to the numerous policy studies and advocacies that the Institute advances.

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It is with profound sadness that we at the Stratbase Group offer our deepest condolences to the family of our beloved Chairperson, Ambassador Albert F. del Rosario, the organization said in a statement posted on its Facebook page.

It has been an honor to work with a leader who personified the highest level of statesmanship, integrity, and love of country that has inspired us to sustain the strategically critical advocacies of the Stratbase Albert del Rosario Institute for Strategic and International Studies, it added.

(Del Rosario) has been a champion of democratic values and a rules-based international order to sustain lasting peace, security, and prosperity for all. He has fought for an independent foreign policy that prioritizes the interests of the country and of the Filipino people.

He believed that diplomacy is a great equalizer in international affairs and that each state had an equal voice in the global community regardless of their political, economic, or military capabilities, it added.

This is a shared passion that we are committed to honor and pursue. With heartfelt gratitude and love. Rest in peace, ADR, Stratbase said.

Ambassador del Rosario was born in Manila to Luis del Rosario and Amparo Ferreros. His great grandmother Teresa Sempio was a sister of Felipa Sempio, the mother of Gregorio del Pilar. His grandfather, Judge Simplicio Sempio del Rosario, was a delegate to the Malolos Congress.



Albert del Rosario attended Xavier High School in New York City and subsequently graduated from New York University with Bachelor of Science Degree in Economics.

He was the former Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines from February 2011 to March 2016 under the administration of President Benigno Simeon Aquino III. He also served as Philippine Ambassador to the United States of America from October 2001 to August 2006.

Prior to entering public service, Ambassador Del Rosario was on the Board of Directors of over 50 firms. His business career for over four decades has spanned the insurance, banking, real estate, shipping, telecommunications, advertising, consumer products, retail, pharmaceutical and food industries.

Ambassador del Rosario is Chairman of Philippine Stratbase Consultancy, Inc., Gotuaco del Rosario Insurance Brokers, Inc., Stratbase ADR Institute, Inc., and a director of First Pacific Company, Indra Philippines, Inc., PLDT Inc., Metro Pacific Investments Corporation, Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation, Cavitex Infrastructure Corporation, Sarimonde Foods Corporation, Two Rivers Pacific Holdings Corporation, Metro Pacific Resources, Inc., Metro Pacific Holdings, Inc., Metro Pacific Asset Holdings, Inc., Philippine Telecommunications Investment Corporation, Enterprise Investments Holdings, Inc., Rockwell Land Corporation and Asia Insurance (Phil.) Corp.

He is also a trustee of the Carlos P. Romulo Foundation for Peace & Development and Philippine Cancer Society, Inc., a member of Asia Society Global Council and an Advisory Board of Metrobank Foundation, Inc. and CSIS Southeast Asia Program.

Ambassador del Rosario received numerous awards and recognition for his valuable contributions to the Philippines and abroad.

In September 2004, Ambassador del Rosario was conferred the Order of Sikatuna, Rank of Datu, by then-President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo for his outstanding efforts in promoting foreign relations for the Philippines and the Order of Lakandula with a Rank of Grand Cross (Bayani) for acting as Co-Chair of the 2015 APEC in December 2015.

He was a recipient of the EDSA II Presidential Heroes Award in recognition of his work in fostering Philippine democracy in 2001 and the Philippine Army Award from President Corazon Aquino for his accomplishments as Chairman of the Makati Foundation for Education in 1991.

He was awarded as 2013 Professional Chair for Public Service and Governance by Ateneo School of Government and the Metrobank Foundation, 2014 Management Man of the Year by Management Association of the Philippines, 2016 Outstanding Government National Official by Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption (VACC), 2016 Asia CEO Awards as Life Contributor, and Manuel L. Quezon Gawad Parangal as Quezon Citys Most Outstanding Citizens for 2016.

He was elevated to the Xavier Hall of Fame in New York City in 2006.

Ambassador del Rosario received the AIM Washington Sycip Distinguished Management Leadership Award in 2011, Doctor of Laws (Honoris Causa) for principled commitment to democracy, integrity and the rule of law both at home and around the globe conferred by the College of Mount Saint Vincent, New York City in September 2015, Rotary Club Makati Wests First Albert del Rosario Award (Tungo sa Makatarungang Pamumuhay) in August 2016, Outstanding Leadership in Diplomatic Service by Miriam College Department of International Studies and Philippine Tatlers Diamond Award both in November 2016.

Health issues



In February 2016, Del Rosario has told then-President Aquino that he is stepping down from his post due to health reasons.



Del Rosario has long been suffering from a spinal problem, a debilitating condition, which has worsened for several months before he stepped down from office. He went on medical leave in May 2015 for a back surgery in the United States which turned unsuccessful.



His health problems were further complicated by a previously-undetected heart condition that required his doctors to hurriedly install a pacemaker to regulate his heartbeat in a Metro Manila hospital.



Despite his health concerns, Del Rosario has persisted to perform his delicate tasks, including the repatriation of large numbers of overseas Filipino workers and residents who have been trapped in conflict-torn Arab states like Libya and Syria, GMA News reported.



Case vs. China



A vocal critic of China, Del Rosario spearheaded the filing of a landmark Philippine government arbitration case that challenged the validity of Chinas sprawling territorial claims in the South China Sea and sought to clarify the territorial entitlements of certain Chinese-occupied features under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Seas, or UNCLOS.



The Philippine arbitration case has been praised as a rules-based and internationally-accepted solution of the long-dragging conflict by several governments led by the United States, Japan, Australia, the European Union, but ignored by China, which called it baseless and lacking in legal merit.



In July 12, 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, Netherlands delivered a sweeping victory to the Philippines on the case it filed against China in 2013 and declared Chinas claim over nearly the entire South China Sea as illegal. China does not recognize the ruling and insists indisputable historic rights over nearly the entire waters.



In June 2019, Del Rosario was barred from entering Hong Kong after being held by immigration authorities for six hours. Denied entry with no explanation after 6-hour hold, Del Rosario, who was supposed to attend a business meeting there, said then.



His health condition, however, prompted him to decide to leave Aquinos Cabinet earlier than planned. He originally intended to leave government at the same time with Aquino, whose six-year term ended in June 2016, he told GMA News Online in a previous interview.



In 2015, Del Rosario discreetly negotiated with Indonesian officials to spare Filipino worker Mary Jane Veloso from imminent execution by firing squad earlier in the year. He backed President Aquinos quiet efforts to convince Indonesias top officials to save Veloso.



Veloso, a 30-year-old mother of two, was among the nine foreign and local death row prisoners, including Australians, scheduled to be executed by firing squad on April 29, 2015 for drug-related charges. All eight were executed, but Veloso was spared from death at the last minute.



As DFA chief, Del Rosario has also struck close friendships with his counterparts worldwide, including with then US Secretary Hillary Clinton and her successor, John Kerry, along with top ASEAN diplomats and harnessed his contacts to negotiate better security and economic arrangements for the Philippines, DFA diplomats say.



With his advocacy for a rules-based solution based on international laws on the South China Sea and other issues, Del Rosario emerged as a key and outspoken leader in the ASEAN, where some of his counterparts have traditionally taken conservative and safe but ineffective policy positions, according to diplomats.



Aside from his hyperactive foreign diplomacy work, many DFA reforms were initiated to ease public burdens, including the opening of DFA satellite offices in shopping malls to bring consular services, including passport applications, closer to the people.

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No action was taken after a public hearing involving Axton Solar, LLC, but most of the 14 people who spoke did so in favor of solar farms.

The Henry County Board of Supervisors called a special meeting for Monday night to hear from anyone who wished to speak about a proposed siting agreement between Henry County and Axton Solar. Only three of the 16 people who spoke indicated that they were opposed to the 435-acre facility to be constructed on the eastern side of Henry County.

The solar farm will be partially in Henry County, and the project requires an acceptable siting agreement, said County Attorney George Lyle. There will be two payments to the County: one for $250,000 and another for $1 million, and then there will be an additional payment per megawatt, but the exact amount of that payment is not known.

Lyle said the total project would be about 200 megawatts, and a significant portion of the electricity produced will be in Henry County.

We live on Climax Road and we believe this can be a good thing if done properly, said Tammy Witt. But solar panels are everywhere. Its all we see. It has lowered our property values. Who wants to live in this mess? Please get all of the facts before ruling on this matter. Our community is totally ruined, all because of progress and money.

I represent the Iriswood District and I am for the solar project, said Chris Robertson. Im actually going to be right in the middle of it. I havent said anything at any of the meetings, and today Im here to speak in favor.

We moved here from New England because of the beautiful green environment. We were very happy here until the solar farm, said Mary Thompson. It creates insecurity. The siting agreement includes no bond for performance. Doing things behind the curtain is not right. They didnt show us maps; they only showed conceptual drawings. Solar revenue sharing is off the table. It looks like nobody is taking responsibility for anything.

Our farm is part of this solar farm, said Mary Ann Davis. Ive always thought of solar as how were growing. If development is coming, we would rather have solar panels than rooftops. Please approve this agreement; I think its a great thing.

Im a resident in Axton, Robert Smith said. I have a small farm and I raise mules. Im in favor of the solar project.

Jimmie Ford said he lived in the Ridgeway area, but owned property in Axton that will be used for the solar project.

According to the Virginia Clean Economy Act, Appalachian Power has to be 100% carbon free by 2050, said Ford. I think we should do whatever we can to help the power company achieve these goals.

Said Andrew Barker: I live in Axton. I do farm and Im in favor of this project.

Nick Punger said he did not live in the area, but was speaking on behalf of the Virginia Land and Liberty Coalition.

We strongly urge you to support this project and the future of Henry County, Punger said.

The funds payable to the County can be used for a variety of purposes, said Vesper Energy Project Manager Trey Lopez. Nearly $19 million in improvements will be made to the property.

Heather Carter took issue with Thompson saying the company did not provide maps of the project.

Ive seen a map and Ive been out there and walked it, said Carter. They agreed to put buffers and fencing in. They tried to work with us every way they could. Solar is the future, and I am down for the project.

Brenell Thomas, just recently named the new Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce president, said the Chamber offered its support.

This project will power over 20,000 homes. Its a long-term investment, Thomas said. It will create over 200 jobs during construction. There is a great positive commitment that Axton Solar has already shown.

Said J&R Management President Will Vaughn: Im a resident of Martinsville, and we are very strong proponents.

Rev. Tyler Millner said he lived in Axton and supports the project.

Im James Robertson from Stanleytown and I commend our negotiators, said Robertson. It should include an offset fee, a supplemental charge. It works out to about $250,000 a year to the County.

I live in the middle of this project, and Im in favor of it, said Jack Wan. I really like it here, and we believe that private property is yours and you should be able to do with it how you like.

Said Sarah Workman: Were neighbors to the project, and I support it.

The discussion by the members of the Board was limited to Iriswood District Supervisor Garrett Dillard, who said he had heard from his constituency and felt an obligation to support the overwhelming majority who had indicated they felt positive about the solar farm construction.

The Board took no action after the public hearing ended, and the meeting was adjourned.

Before the Axton Solar hearing, the Board held a public hearing on the proposed Henry County Public Schools budget and on the overall County budget, with limited participation.

Travis Pruitt of the Ridgeway District thanked the Board for including money to the volunteer agencies in the County, and Sandra Haley with the Public Defenders Office pointed out that even with a proposed 5% raise, the attorneys in her office would still be making between $5,000 and $9,000 a year less than the attorneys employed with the Commonwealth Attorneys Office.
At the beginning of Monday nights meeting, McDowell County Board of Education members set aside 30 minutes for public comment and input on the search for a new superintendent.

They didnt need them.

Only one person, David Patenaude, signed up to address the board on that topic, briefly bringing up the hiring of former Superintendent Gerri Martin in 2012, which he called a terrible mistake. He said he hoped the current board would go through a more thorough vetting process.

The rest of the crowded board room was there to talk about an item removed from the agenda last week  diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) training for board members and key administrators. A proposal heard in March to hire the N.C.-based firm Dream Builders for $24,000 a year with the option for additional years was dropped without a vote after public outcry.

Board Chair Terry English said in a statement last week the board would opt for additional legal training instead.

Still, a group opposing DEI was there Monday to speak during the second public comment session following the brief superintendent discussion.

Individual speakers were given three minutes and those representing a group were offered five.

Bonnie Childers, who comes from a family of educators and said she was speaking for a group, emphasized that the people of McDowell will not allow biological males in our girls restrooms and locker rooms. We will not allow new biological males to destroy our girls sports. We will not allow the mutilation or sexualization of little kids.

Childers said DEI was a form of Marxist indoctrination.

We're living in a world where equity and equality have gotten mixed up. And I don't think that's by accident, she said. In this country our Constitution and Bill of Rights guarantees everyone equal opportunity, not a guarantee of equal outcome.

Eight more speakers followed, nearly all lambasting DEI. You can view the meeting in its entirety on YouTube by clicking here. The DEI discussion begins at the 55:06 time stamp.

Only one speaker talked in favor of DEI, sixth-grade teacher Taylor White.

My students deserve to see their whole self represented in their academic resources, she said. Their whole self includes not only their cultural, ethnic, religious or extracurricular identity, but they should also be able to see their own family dynamic in these resources as well.

After the public comment session, a large portion of the crowd left, and other school business was done in front of mostly empty chairs.

Board member Beth Silver, speaking about the Head Start program during board reports, said she wished the groups would have stayed for all of the meeting.

I'm always disappointed when we have a full house and then people leave before we're able to just brag on our people, she said. So that's the message I'd first like to get out, because we're doing so much more better in this system. And I'd love for people to stick around in here when we do our board reports. That's an editorial comment, but that's my right.
Kim anticipates that the vaccine would work well as the initial version infants receive. An infants immune response could be more protective, Kim said, if the infant is first vaccinated with a broad-spectrum vaccine that targets many strains like DCFHP-alum does.

The vaccine provided immunity in rhesus monkeys against SARS-CoV-1, a distant relative of the SARS-CoV-2 lineage. Unlike the bivalent Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna mRNA vaccines, which contain the original Wuhan strain and the latest mutated strain, DCFHP-alum was developed using only the first strain of the spike protein.

Such an approach dodges variant chasing, in which researchers keep changing the booster recipe to keep pace with virus mutations.

Whats exciting is that we could increase herd immunity if these results translate to humans because people are tired of getting vaccines every three or four months, Kim said.

The recipe

In developing the DCFHP-alum vaccine, scientists made several changes to the spikes found on the surface of the coronavirus.

They first stabilized the spikes: In hijacking our cells to create new virus particles, the coronavirus grabs proteins on our cells using the spikes on its surface. Once the proteins attach to the spikes, the spikes turn inside-out to fuse with our cells. By modifying the spikes to make them more rigid so that theyre not able to turn inside-out, vaccines can prevent this tampering.

For the second change, they fused ferritin, a nanoparticle that offers up antigens to the immune system, to the spikes. Using nanoparticles in addition to stabilizing the spike proteins is a better stimulant of the immune system, Kim said, partly because the nanoparticles are captured by dendritic cells. These cells catch foreign antigens and transport them to lymph nodes where they encounter B cells and T cells  essential components of an immune reaction.

The third change was that the researchers deleted the last 70 amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, of the spike closest to the membrane of the virus. Kim described the region as a distraction for the immune system. People make a strong antibody response against this region, but the antibodies produced do not neutralize the virus. By removing that part of the protein, the scientists hypothesis was that the vaccine would stimulate the immune system to make more antibodies that neutralize the virus.

Once the vaccine was developed, the team immunized 10 male rhesus monkeys, then divided them into two groups: one that received a booster 21 days later and the other 92 days later. The animals were then tested for antibodies that confer immunity to the virus. Both showed resistance after immunization, and it lasted at least 250 days. The booster given after 92 days elicited a more robust immune response than the one given after 21 days.

The researchers gave the monkeys a second booster on day 381, which nearly eliminated the immune response differences seen in the two groups. Both had a significant immune response after the second boost, demonstrating immune system memory.

Kim hopes to see similarly promising results in people. Clinical trials will start within the next few months.

With this promising vaccine, if it passes clinical trials, we can target a large fraction of the worlds unvaccinated population or those in need of a booster, Kim said.

Researchers from the University of Kansas, the California Department of Public Health, the New Iberia Research Center, the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative, the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and the Chan Zuckerberg Biohub contributed to the work.

The study was funded by the Frank Quattrone & Denise Foderaro Family Research Fund, the Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, the Stanford Innovative Medicines Accelerator, the Virginia & D.K. Ludwig Fund for Cancer Research, and a National Institutes of Health Directors Pioneer Award (DP1AI158125).
The corruption trial of former South African President Jacob Zuma, who is accused of taking bribes from the French defense group Thales more than 20 years ago, was postponed on Monday until August 2023.

This time, the new judge sitting in the Pietermaritzburg court (south-east)  the old one having recused himself in January  decided to give time to Mr. Zuma, who turned 81 last week, to prepare a new appeal.

Judge Nkosinathi Chili postponed the trial to August 15 to hear this new appeal by Mr. Zuma, who is seeking to have the chief prosecutor in the trial, Billy Downer, recused from the case, accusing him of bias and of leaking elements of the case to the press. The former head of state (2009-2018) is being prosecuted on 16 counts of fraud, corruption, and racketeering. Thales is also being prosecuted for corruption and money laundering.

The trial had begun in May 2021, after having already accumulated a monster delay due, in particular, to multiple appeals from the accused and postponements obtained by his lawyers citing health reasons.

A report on the unprecedented corruption under the Zuma presidency, so extensive that it has been dubbed state capture by South Africans, was made public last year by an ad hoc commission, highlighting the central role of the former head of state in the systematic looting of public funds.

During a hearing in July 2021, a prosecution lawyer, Wim Trengove, ironically described the trial as a battle of Stalingrad, season 27.
The first visit of a Portuguese submarine to Cape Verde has aroused the curiosity of the population of Sao Vicente in recent days, as they observed from afar the exterior of the Arpao, docked since April 14 in the port of Mindelo.

Since I was a little girl I dreamed of being inside a submarine, to see what the bottom of the sea is like, because of childish fantasies in which I dreamed of seeing fish, shells, whales, and the most desired was to see mermaids, because of the stories I heard, Dulcineida Soares, a clinical psychologist from Mindelo told media while watching the Portuguese Navy submarine from afar.

However, Dulcineida Soares and several other Cape Verdeans could not fulfill their dream of going aboard, due to the submarines characteristics, which do not allow visits from the general public, as clarified by Commander Taveira Pinto, since it carries various weapons.

Given the characteristics of the submarine, we do not open it to the public, because the submarine itself is a strategic weapon. The visits are restricted, but we have collaboration and some activities, namely with the Coast Guard of Cape Verde, since they have a close relationship with the activities to be developed and we have some collaboration with the institute of the sea and the university, with courses related to the sea, sea science and maritime machinery, which will have the opportunity to meet the ship, assured the commander.

The submarine Arpao is calling at the port of Mindelo, Sao Vicente island, as part of the Open Sea 2023 initiative, the first of the Portuguese Navy to dock in Cape Verde. The submarine left the Naval Base of Lisbon on April 4 and in this 120-day mission, it will cover 13,000 miles (about 24,100 kilometers) and navigate 2,500 miles through two continents and five countries, calling at Sao Vicente from April 14 to 18.

The NRP Arpao will be the first Portuguese submarine to carry out a mission of this type, and the first time that a Portuguese submarine has crossed the equator, putting the Navys operational logistical capacity to the test, said the Portuguese Navy.

The Open Sea initiative presupposes the establishment of bilateral contacts and collaboration and the establishment of diplomatic relations between Portugal and other countries, at this time focused on the CPLP [Community of Portuguese-Speaking Countries] and with a major focus on patrolling the Gulf of Guinea, given the evidence of piracy and drug trafficking that there is in that area. The first port of call is here in Mindelo, then we will go on to Brazil, through the South Atlantic, cross to Cape Town, where we will participate in the celebrations of June 10 [celebrations of the Day of Portugal, Camoes and the Portuguese Communities in South Africa], added Commander Taveira Pinto.
The President of Rwanda, Paul Kagame, was awarded the Amilcar Cabral medal, the highest distinction of the Guinean state, during a short visit he paid to Guinea-Bissau Monday.

I want to express my deep appreciation and honor to have received the Amilcar Cabral medal. It is a privilege for me, as an African, and also for my country. It reminds us to continue to strengthen unity and prosperity in our two countries, said Paul Kagame, whose visit to Guinea-Bissau was scheduled for Sunday but was eventually postponed until Monday.

The Rwandan head of state was speaking at the Guinean Presidency during a joint statement with Guinea-Bissaus President Umaro Sissoco Embalo after a meeting.

The Rwandan President also said he had a productive meeting with Umaro Sissoco Embalo, during which cooperation between the two countries was discussed and the need for it to be built on solid foundations.

As in the rest of Africa, the most important resource that Rwanda and Guinea-Bissau have is their youth. We must create an enabling environment for our youth to achieve their goals, he said.

The President of Guinea-Bissau thanked Paul Kagame for the efforts he has made for Africa and for the considerable support he has given to Guinea-Bissau.

Umaro Sissoco Embalo, who visited Rwanda last year, also stressed that President Paul Kagames visit also highlighted the work for regional stability represents an important and remarkable step in strengthening cooperation between the two countries.

The Rwandan head of state arrived in Bissau late in the morning and went to the Amura fortress, where he laid a wreath at the mausoleum of Amilcar Cabral.

The two countries also signed agreements on cooperation in trade and visa exemption.
The Angolan government plans to create a cyber-security academy, in Luanda, to deal with the very large deficit of professionals in this area, the minister of Telecommunications, Information Technologies and Media said on April 17.

Mario Oliveira who announced the academy creation during a press conference said the installation of a cybersecurity Academy, aims at the certification of young Angolan graduates in what concerns cybersecurity-related tools.

We are aware that, unfortunately, in our country we still have a very large deficit of professionals in this area, said the minister. Because we understand that this is the only way that we will in fact be making a great contribution so that in the very near future we can have our networks secure, because there is no point in us having laws that oblige entities to adhere to this or that, to punish this or that non-compliance, there is no point in us having technology alone, he emphasized.

The Angolan official underlined that the concern is very great when it comes to training staff in this area, highlighting that the academy will be set up in partnership with a company with some experience in this area. According to the minister, there are already other academies in Luanda, namely at the Institute of Telecommunications, where the Cisco, Huawei, and Microsoft academies are installed.

It is an added value to what we already have today and what we have been doing all these years, he said.

The creation of a Cybersecurity academy will allow the training of several young people and their placement in the market, with a view to ensuring security to the national cyberspace.
Tunisian authorities arrested Monday Rached Ghannouchi, the leader of the countrys largest opposition party on the grounds that he allegedly called for a civil war during a meeting he had last Saturday with a coalition of movements opposed to President Kais Saied.

He was arrested at his residence after a raid and taken to Aouina barracks, in capital Tunis.

The ministry of Interior the same day indicated the Islamist leader and former Speaker of Tunisias parliament is arrested after allegedly indicating in video that the country will slide in a civil war if authorities try to eliminate any political movement in the country.

The video according to the ministry was recorded during a Saturday meeting with a group of opposition members. Security forces also raided Ennahdhas headquarters and flashed out people for investigation.

The party condemned Ghannouchis arrest and demanded his immediate release. Former President Moncef Marzouki, in exile in France and condemned to prison in absentia, also called for his release. Come back to your senses if you want good for yourself, set him free, he said.
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A large retrospective study conducted by physician researchers from Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center reports benefits of chemotherapy for many patients with early-stage breast cancer with rare variant histology, or tumor anatomy. These findings will be presented by first author Arya Mariam Roy, MBBS, during the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) annual meeting, continuing through April 19 in Orlando, Florida.

"The benefit of chemotherapy in the management of rare histological variants of breast cancer, such as mucinous, medullary, cribriform and papillary, is unclear in the current guidelines," notes Dr. Roy, a Roswell Park hematology/oncology fellow.

"Therefore, we queried the National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database from 2010-2018 for stage 1, 2 and 3 hormone-receptor-positive HER2-negative breast cancer patients who presented with these rare histological variants and compared the clinical benefits of chemotherapy in patients who received it versus those who did not."

Alongside study co-lead author Shipra Gandhi, MD, Assistant Professor of Oncology at Roswell Park, and colleagues, Dr. Roy examined overall survival and disease-specific survival in this patient population. Patients were assigned into chemotherapy-positive and chemotherapy-negative cohorts based on whether or not they received adjuvant chemotherapy.

Among 11,745 patients with a mucinous histology, 94 percent were hormone-receptor-positive HER2 negative. Among those individuals, 8.5 percent underwent chemotherapy and 91.5 percent did not. Data showed that the 5-year overall survival rate among all disease stages was higher for those who underwent chemotherapy compared with those who did not. The researchers observed a chemotherapy benefit in 5-year disease-specific survival only among patients with stage 3 breast cancer.

Of the patients with a medullary histology (1,787), 34 percent were hormone-receptor-positive HER2 negative. In this cohort, all patients with stage 3 breast cancer received chemotherapy, and their 5-year overall survival was 94 percent. Among patients with stage 1 and 2 disease, receiving chemotherapy was associated with better 5-year overall survival. The researchers did not see a 5-year disease-specific survival benefit with chemotherapy in any stage.

Ninety-three percent of patients with cribriform tumor anatomy were hormone-receptor-positive HER2 negative. The researchers documented a higher 5-year overall survival rate with chemotherapy in patients with stage 2 disease, but not in those with state 1 or 3 disease. Among patients in the papillary histology group83 percent of whom had hormone-receptor-positive HER2 negative diseasetreatment with chemotherapy was linked to a better 5-year overall survival at stage 2 alone.

"We observed that in hormone-receptor-positive mucinous and medullary histologies, chemotherapy has an overall survival benefit," says Dr. Gandhi, a Roswell Park medical oncologist. "In hormone-receptor positive HER2-negative papillary and cribriform histologies, chemotherapy can be considered an option for patients with higher-stage disease. Multicenter clinical trials are needed to further assess the impact of chemotherapy in rare histological variants of breast cancer."

Provided by Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center
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ACS research. Credit: American Cancer Society

A new study by researchers at the American Cancer Society (ACS) shows almost three-quarters of a million more adults in the United States, ages 18-29 years, used e-cigarettes between 2019-2021 during the period that spanned the EVALI outbreak (E-cigarette or vaping product useassociated lung injury) and COVID-19 pandemic. Scientists report the year-on-year increase was primarily among adults who never smoked cigarettes. The study was published today in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine (AJPM).

"Unfortunately, these numbers show we're moving in the wrong direction concerning e-cigarette use in this vulnerable population," said Dr. Priti Bandi, scientific director, cancer risk factors & screening surveillance research at the American Cancer Society and lead author of the study.

"Our research finding is concerning as it may point to an increase in nicotine addiction risk for young adults, potentially contributing to progression to combustible tobacco products, and may also increase exposure to unknown toxicants, carcinogens, and the risk of respiratory diseases."

Researchers pooled data from the National Health Interview Survey from 2019, 2020, and 2021 to estimate current e-cigarette use prevalence, adjusted prevalence difference between survey years, and population counts, by age group and cigarette smoking status (persons who currently, formerly, or never smoked).

The study results showed between 2019 and 2021, e-cigarette use prevalence increased from 8.8% in 2019 to 10.2% in 2021 among younger U.S. adults ages 18-29 years. Of note, among those young adults who never smoked cigarettes, e-cigarette use jumped from 4.9% in 2019 to 5.2% in 2020 to 6.4% in 2021. This group of young adults constituted 53% (2.68 million) of younger adults who used e-cigarettes in 2021, increasing by 0.71 million persons from 2019.

The study also showed among middle-aged and older U.S. adults, e-cigarette prevalence was similar in 2019 and 2021 irrespective of combustible cigarette smoking status. People who formerly smoked cigarettes constituted the largest population proportion of people who use e-cigarettes among adults older than 30 years in 2021 (51.1%, 3.1 million).

"E-cigarette use is not harmless at any age. It may have serious health risks, including negative short-term effects on airways and blood vessels, and we do not know the long-term effects of their use," Bandi said. "We must address the rise in e-cigarette use among younger adults who never smoked cigarettes and, at the same time, help those who may have switched from cigarettes to e-cigarettes to stop using these devices completely."

"It's clear Big Tobacco's strategy is to addict future generations to its products with e-cigarettes, putting the health of the country at risk," said Lisa Lacasse, president, American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN), the advocacy affiliate of the American Cancer Society. "Policymakers at the local, state, and federal levels must take action now to protect the public, especially youth, from this predatory industry. E-cigarettes must be regulated like all other tobacco products, and we urge the FDA to complete and enforce the premarket review process for all new tobacco products, including e-cigarettes."

More information: Priti Bandi et al, Changes in E-Cigarette Use Among U.S. Adults, 20192021, American Journal of Preventive Medicine (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2023.02.026 Journal information: American Journal of Preventive Medicine
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Serving on the front lines in the arduous battle against the coronavirus, emergency department (ED) physicians are among the true heroes of the pandemic, working long, stressful hours at great personal risk, especially in the many months before vaccines became available. A pilot study examining the feasibility, receptivity and preliminary effectiveness of peer-support groups for ED doctors during COVID-19 found this support provided potential benefit in terms of reduction of mental health stresses involved in emergency care during this time.

The researchers assessed change in symptoms of distress, depression and burnout before and after participating in virtual, group-based peer support for eight weeks. While historically physicians have low uptake of mental health resources, 86 percent of the doctors participating in the study indicated they would recommend peer support groups to a friend or colleague.

"Emergency departments have always been high stress environments and COVID at least doubled the stress," said study co-author and national leader in the study of medical symptoms Kurt Kroenke, M.D., of the Regenstrief Institute and Indiana University School of Medicine. "Stress on the job can lead to burnout and other negative consequences. It's an important question as to how we can help our health care workers under high stress conditions like COVID."

The pilot study reported a trend toward reduction of psychologic distress and burnout symptoms associated with working in emergency care when physicians came together virtually in peer support groups.

"That ED physicians were receptive to peer-support groups and found them helpful can be relevant to other clinicians working in the ED as well as other stressful medical environments such as intensive care units," said Dr. Kroenke.

"The physicians in our study came together in a group only a handful of times. This is a fairly low-cost intervention that health care systems could provide. Even with the pandemic now winding down, I think it could be beneficial for health care workers in stressful situations across the board."

During this pilot study, short versions of depression and anxiety screening tools co- developed by Dr. Kroenke, as well as burnout measurement screeners, were administered to ED physicians and their responses analyzed, revealing evidence of a trend toward decreased symptoms.

The study authors conclude, "Promising signs of improvement in distress, anxiety, depression, and burn out symptoms warrant additional studies with larger sample sizes and more robust research designs to establish the evidence base for peer support in the physician population."

"The use of peer support groups for emergency physicians during the COVID-19 pandemic" is published in Journal of the American College of Emergency Physicians Open.

More information: Jill Nault Connors et al, The use of peer support groups for emergency physicians during the COVID19 pandemic, Journal of the American College of Emergency Physicians Open (2023). DOI: 10.1002/emp2.12897
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Among individuals who consented to whole-exome sequencing and were identified as carriers of predisposition genes for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC) or Lynch syndrome, 39.2% would not have qualified for genetic screening under current guidelines, according to results from the Tapestry clinical trial presented at the AACR Annual Meeting 2023, held April 1419.

Patients with HBOC have up to an 80% lifetime risk of developing breast cancer and a markedly increased risk, relative to the general population, of developing ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer, prostate cancer, and melanoma, Samadder said. Patients with Lynch syndrome have up to an 80% and 60% lifetime risk of colorectal and endometrial cancer, respectively, with additional increased risks of upper gastrointestinal, urinary tract, skin, and other cancers.

Both of these conditions are classified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as Tier 1 genetic conditions (CDCT1), meaning that early detection of these conditions and proactive intervention could significantly improve public health. The National Cancer Control Network (NCCN) has established a set of guidelines based on an individual's family and personal history of cancer to identify individuals who should undergo genetic testing for these conditions.

If individuals know about their genetic risk for certain cancers, they can undergo enhanced screening and consider prophylactic surgeries, explained N. Jewel Samadder, MD, a professor of medicine at the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and co-leader of the precision oncology program at the Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center, who co-led the study. For patients with Lynch syndrome, this can include regular colonoscopies, blood and urine screening, and prophylactic hysterectomy. For patients with HBOC, this can include advanced breast imaging and prophylactic mastectomy and/or oophorectomy.

Despite the potential benefits, these criteria are not always adequately applied, and even when used appropriately, they do not catch everyone who should be screened, Samadder explained.

"These criteria were created at a time when genetic testing was cost-prohibitive and thus aimed to identify those at the greatest chance of being a mutation carrier in the absence of population-wide whole-exome sequencing," Samadder said. "However, these conditions are poorly identified in current practice, and many patients are not aware of their cancer risk."

As whole-exome sequencing becomes cheaper and more accessible, Samadder and colleagues hypothesized that the benefits of screening a broader population may outweigh the costs. They initiated the Tapestry study to investigate whether whole-exome sequencing could provide individuals with more robust information about their genetic predisposition for certain diseases.

At the time of data cut-off, 44,306 patients from Mayo Clinic sites in Minnesota, Arizona, and Florida had enrolled in the study. Each individual provided a saliva sample that was subjected to whole-exome sequencing. For this portion of the study, researchers evaluated samples for pathogenic mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2, denoting HBOC, and MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, PMS2, and EPCAM, denoting Lynch syndrome.

Samadder and colleagues identified 550 carriers of pathogenic mutations in these genes, comprising 387 individuals with HBOC and 163 with Lynch syndrome. Of these individuals, 52.1% did not know prior to this study that they had a cancer predisposition condition and 39.2% did not satisfy the existing NCCN criteria for genetic testing. Among the patients who were newly diagnosed with Lynch syndrome or HBOC during this study, 60% were ineligible for genetic testing per the current guidelines.

Patients with HBOC or Lynch syndrome from racial and ethnic minority groups were significantly more likely than white patients to not meet NCCN screening criteria (49% versus 32%, respectively). Samadder suggested that this may indicate a systemic bias in the current guidelines that could potentially be overcome by universal genetic testing.

The study aims to enroll a total of 100,000 patients before completing its final analyses, which will include a sub-study that follows patients for 10 years to observe how the information gained from whole exome sequencing impacts their health.

"The knowledge that comes from genetics can empower patients to take control of their disease risk and increase their likelihood of avoiding a deadly cancer diagnosis or catching it at an early stage when it is highly curable," Samadder said. "This study shows the feasibility of providing whole-exome sequencing to large populations of patients within an integrated health system and diagnosing individuals who have an inherited susceptibility to cancer."

Limitations of this study include the exclusivity of the patient population to individuals enrolled in the Mayo Clinic system, a tertiary and quaternary care system that may not reflect the demographics of the general population. This includes an enrollment of 10% underrepresented minorities, a number Samadder and colleagues intend to increase as the study continues recruitment.
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About one in five cases of child abuse and neglect is committed by both mothers and fathers, but nearly all the research attention has been focused on when just one parent is involved.

A new study that aimed to shine a light on risk factors for mistreatment coming from both parents found some surprising results.

For example, mothers and fathers who were substance users had lower odds of both being involved in physical or sexual abuse. Couples in which at least one of the parents was a prior abuse perpetrator also had lower odds of physical abuse.

These and other results suggest that the factors that predict when both parents will be involved in specific types of maltreatment are not always obvious, said Joyce Lee, lead author of the study and assistant professor of social work at The Ohio State University.

"We need more nuanced ways of understanding and addressing multiple risk factors within the family to prevent child maltreatment involving both mothers and fathers," Lee said.

The issue is important because previous research suggests that child maltreatment perpetrated by mothers and fathers is more severe than maltreatment committed by one parent alone.

"That's alarming, but also not surprising. Two parents can have more of a harmful impact on a child if they are both involved with maltreatment," Lee said.

The research was published online recently in the journal Children.

The study involved data from the National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System, which is a federally sponsored project of the Children's Bureau at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

The final sample included 6,996 families from 11 states in which biological mother-father pairs were identified as co-perpetrating maltreatment against a child that led to involvement in the foster care system.

Results showed that about 93% of the maltreatment cases involved neglect, followed by 14% physical abuse, 2% sexual abuse and 1% emotional abuse.

The findings related to physical abuse contradict the results of previous research that suggested parental substance use and housing insecurity were risk factors for child physical abuse.

"Parents who are intoxicated from alcohol or drugs, as well as those struggling to find adequate housing, may not have the bandwidth for any type of parentingeven harsh parenting linked to physical abuse," Lee said.

But those same risk factors were linked to higher odds of both parents participating in neglect, she said.

"There seems to be differences in how family characteristics are linked to acts of omission, such as neglect, versus acts of commission, such as physical abuse," Lee said.

The fact that having a parent who was a prior perpetrator was linked to lower odds of both parents being involved in physical abuse suggests that additional services provided to parents and increased monitoring of these families may mitigate the risk of maltreatment recurrence, she said.

Results also showed that intimate partner violence in a couple relationship was linked to higher odds of both parents participating in child neglect.

In cases of sexual abuse, disability and medical conditions among parents were linked with higher odds of mothers and fathers being co-involved, while parental substance use was linked with lower odds of sexual abuse.

Intimate partner violence was the only factor in the study linked to the emotional abuse of children.

The study also found, somewhat surprisingly, that economic insecurity and parental mental health problems were not risk factors for any type of maltreatment. That is inconsistent with other research, and Lee said more research is needed to determine if those factors truly aren't linked to both parents being involved in maltreatment.

Lee said the results suggest a critical need for programs and policies to address the presence of a prior perpetrator in the family, parental substance use, disability and medical conditions, inadequate housing, and intimate partner violence in families. But the results suggest a nuanced approach, because efforts to reduce maltreatment may not have an equal impact on all the various types.

"For example, interventions that aim to prevent intimate partner violence may help prevent emotional abuse and neglect, but not help prevent physical or sexual abuse," she said. "We really need to have a comprehensive assessment and treatment of risk factors so that we can stop all types of child maltreatment by both parents."

Co-authors of the study were Susan Yoon and Angelise Radney of Ohio State, Keunhye Park of Michigan State University, Stacey Shipe of Binghamton University, and Garrett Pace of the University of Nevada Las Vegas.

More information: Joyce Y. Lee et al, FatherMother Co-Involvement in Child Maltreatment: Associations of Prior Perpetration, Substance Use, Inadequate Housing, and Intimate Partner Violence with Different Maltreatment Types, Children (2023). DOI: 10.3390/children10040707
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An emulated target trial of more than 140,000 women in Denmark found that removing the ovaries at benign hysterectomy was associated with increased risk for cardiovascular disease in younger women and cancer in older women at low risk for ovarian cancer. These findings support current recommendations for preserving ovaries in premenopausal patients. The findings are published in Annals of Internal Medicine.

Removal of the ovaries decreases the risk for ovarian cancer and greatly benefits the survival of women at high risk for ovarian cancer. However, not enough is known about how removal of the ovaries affects other possible outcomes, such as heart attack, stroke, other types of cancer, and how long patients live.

Researchers from the Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark studied health records for 142,985 women who underwent a benign hysterectomy with or without bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes) to compare long-term outcomes.

The researchers found that women who had their ovaries removed had a lower risk of ovarian cancer, but other health outcomes varied by age/menopause status. Premenopausal women who had ovaries removed had a higher risk of hospitalization for cardiovascular disease. Perimenopausal, early postmenopausal, and late postmenopausal women who had ovaries removed had a higher risk for cancer.

The authors noted that women who had their ovaries removed at perimenopausal ages had more deaths when measured at 10 and 20 years after surgery, but women aged 65 years or older had fewer deaths when measured at 20 years after surgery. According to the authors, these results suggest a cautious approach to removing ovaries in women at low risk for ovarian cancer.

An accompanying editorial by authors from the University of Health San Antonio and Wayne State University School of Medicine highlights the complex factors that must be considered when deciding to recommend BSO. They note that the recent practice of opportunistic salpingectomy can offer reduced ovarian cancer rates without compromising ovarian function, and data shows that the use of hormone replacement will mitigate risk rely on patients' adherence to medication. The authors emphasize that based on available evidence and guidelines, the decision for BSO is best left to shared decision making between patient and physician.

More information: Mathilde Gottschau et al, Long-Term Health Consequences After Ovarian Removal at Benign Hysterectomy, Annals of Internal Medicine (2023). DOI: 10.7326/M22-1628 Elizabeth Casiano Evans et al, Oophorectomy at the Time of Hysterectomy: The Debate Continues, Annals of Internal Medicine (2023). DOI: 10.7326/M23-0756 Summary for Patients: Long-Term Health Consequences After Ovarian Removal at Benign Hysterectomy, Annals of Internal Medicine (2023). DOI: 10.7326/P23-0001 Journal information: Annals of Internal Medicine
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Salmonella bacteria (red) cause up to a million deaths a year worldwide and there is a need for effective vaccines. New work from UC Davis shows how salmonella-specific T-cells can be stimulated to take up residence in the liver, ready to quickly fight off the infection. Credit: Rocky Mountain Laboratories, NIAID, NIH

Salmonella infections cause about a million deaths a year worldwide, and there is an urgent need for better vaccines for both typhoid fever and non-typhoidal Salmonella disease. New work from researchers at the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine shows how memory T cells, crucial for a vaccine that induces a powerful immune response, can be recruited into the liver in a mouse model of Salmonella.

The work was published April 11 in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

"Understanding the immunology is key to developing a better vaccine," said Professor Stephen McSorley, Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Cell Biology and senior author on the paper.

McSorley's laboratory studies salmonella, and other bacterial infections such as chlamydia, in laboratory mice. It's recently become clear that a type of immune cell called tissue resident memory cells are key to immunity to salmonella in mice, he said.

When a pathogen enters the body, the immune system mounts a response, including CD4 T-cells which support other responses, such as antibody production by B-cells. When the infection is over, some of the cells specific to that pathogen remain as memory cells, waiting to be called rapidly into service again if the same threat returns.

In the mouse model of salmonella infection, those CD4 memory T-cells don't circulate around the body. They hunker down in the liver as tissue resident memory cells.

"We want to know, how do these cells get generated?" said Claire Depew, graduate student in McSorley's laboratory and first author on the paper. The researchers knew that another type of tissue resident memory cell, CD8 cells, require a signal from the tissue to take up residence. Was the same true for the CD4?

T-cell transfer

To study the problem, Depew adapted an approach used by Australian researchers to study malaria, another disease involving tissue resident memory cells in the liver. She took CD4 T-cells specific for salmonella and transferred them into mice that had never been infected with Salmonella, so the researchers could study which factors would cause those T-cells to become resident memory cells in the liver.

They found that molecules that promote inflammation, especially interleukin-1 and 2, enhanced formation of salmonella-specific CD4 tissue resident memory cells in the mice. This provides a rapid-response force that can act quickly against salmonella infection.

"They're trained and ready to go," McSorley said.

The basic science results will help researchers in designing new vaccines for salmonella, McSorley said.

"A successful vaccine would need to promote conditions to form these cells, without causing liver inflammation," he said.

More information: Claire E. Depew et al, Optimal generation of hepatic tissue-resident memory CD4 T cells requires IL-1 and IL-2, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (2023). DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2214699120 Journal information: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
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Patients with severe COVID-19 requiring mechanical ventilation are 16 times more likely to develop ventricular tachycardia within six months compared to their peers without severe infection, according to research presented at EHRA 2023, a scientific congress of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC). Risks of other heart rhythm disorders were also elevated.

"The actual likelihood of developing ventricular tachycardia or other arrhythmias after severe COVID-19 is low for the individual patient, but much higher than in those without severe infection," said study author Dr. Marcus Stahlberg of the Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.

The objective of this study was to investigate the long-term risk of arrhythmias after discharge from an intensive care unit (ICU) for COVID-19 requiring mechanical ventilation. The researchers used the Swedish ICU register to identify all COVID-19 patients treated with mechanical ventilation and discharged alive from an ICU between March 2020 and June 2021.

Each patient was matched by age, sex and district of residence with up to 10 people in the general population. Multiple compulsory national registries were used to record new diagnoses of arrhythmias after discharge from the ICU.

The primary outcome was hospitalization with ventricular tachycardia, atrial fibrillation, other tachyarrhythmias, or bradycardia/pacemaker implantation. Ventricular tachycardia is a potentially life-threatening heart rhythm disturbance that occurs when the ventricle beats too fast to pump properly causing the body to receive insufficient oxygenated blood. Atrial fibrillation is an irregular and fast heartbeat that causes shortness of breath and raises the risk of stroke.

"Other tachyarrhythmias" refers to a fast heartbeat not caused by atrial fibrillation. "Bradycardia or pacemaker implantation" is a combined endpoint of slow heart rate or need for a pacemaker due to slow heart rate.

The researchers analyzed the risk of developing each arrhythmia in severe COVID-19 patients, compared to those without severe COVID-19. The analyses were adjusted for factors linked with the likelihood of heart rhythm disorders including age, sex, high blood pressure, diabetes, high blood lipids, chronic kidney disease and socioeconomic status (education level, marital status and income).

The study included 3,023 patients with severe COVID-19 who received mechanical ventilation at a Swedish ICU and 28,463 individuals from the general population who had not been in an ICU with COVID-19 requiring mechanical ventilation (control group). The average age of participants was 62 years and 30% were women. "Higher age and male sex are two important risk factors for getting severely sick with COVID-19 and this was reflected in our study participants," said Dr. Stahlberg.

The average follow up was nine months. In patients who had severe COVID-19, the incidence rates per 1,000 person-years of ventricular tachycardia, atrial fibrillation, other tachyarrhythmias, and bradycardia/pacemaker implantation were 15.4, 78.4, 99.3 and 8.5, respectively. Corresponding incidence rates in the control group were 0.9, 6.0, 6.7 and 0.9, respectively.

Compared to the control group, patients who had severe COVID-19 requiring mechanical ventilation had a 16-fold risk of ventricular tachycardia, 13-fold risk of atrial fibrillation, 14-fold risk of other tachyarrhythmias, and 9-fold risk of bradycardia/pacemaker implantation.

Dr. Stahlberg said, "COVID-19 patients who need mechanical ventilation often have other conditions and adding a heart rhythm disorder may lead to worsened health. These patients should seek medical attention if they develop palpitations or irregular heartbeats after hospital discharge so they can be evaluated for possible arrhythmias."

He concluded, "An increased risk of arrhythmias following COVID-19 has also been reported previously in the bulk of COVID-19 patients not requiring ICU treatment. Together with our new data and taking into the account that we globally have 650 million reported COVID-19 cases, hospital systems should prepare for an increase in patients requiring management for new onset arrhythmias."
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Strokes are the number one cause of persistent physical impairment among adults worldwide. Sufferers often find it hard or even impossible to perform everyday physical actions like walking or reaching for something. One reason for this is that the stroke has damaged regions in the brain involved in making the necessary movements.

Initial clinical studies conducted by other scientists have shown that stimulating the vagus nerve plays a crucial role in rehabilitating regions of the brain damaged by a stroke. Such stimulation has allowed stroke patients to regain their movement faster and more effectively.

But until now, this has required patients to undergo an expensive operation, performed under general anesthetic, to implant a stimulation device below the skin. Since it's common practice to wait a full year after a stroke to carry out this procedure, patients are losing valuable time.

Now, ETH researchers Paulius Viskaitis and Dane Donegan from the Rehabilitation Engineering Laboratory have developed a new system that is set to make vagus nerve stimulation much easier and available much faster. "Our earpiece emits subtle electrical impulses to activate the nerve in the outer ear, thus eliminating the need for a surgical procedure," explains Viskaitis, who was recently awarded an ETH Zurich Pioneer Fellowship to help him bring the technology to market. Credit: ETH Zurich

Electrical impulses help the brain learn

A few years ago while still at the University of Colorado, Donegan was able to show that stimulating the vagus nerve wasn't the only factor. The neuroscientist demonstrated that timing is also critical: the electrical impulses are particularly effective if administered while patients are attempting those motions that they have found difficult to perform since their stroke.

This helps the brain rewire motor neural circuits to compensate for malfunctions in regions damaged by the stroke. "It's like we're reconfiguring the brain's software: stimulating the nerve promotes neuroplasticity, aids the formation of new synapses and supports the relearning of physical actions," Donegan says.

Movement sensor enables targeted stimulation

Another disadvantage of the implanted sensor treatment is that afterwards a physical therapist must be on hand to manually operate the stimulator. This eats up a lot of time and money.

So what the two ETH researchers have done is develop a movement sensor that works a bit like a smartwatch. Stroke patients wear this sensor wherever their motor function is impaired, for instance on their right arm. Using special software, which Viskaitis and Donegan also developed, the sensor analyzes the arm's movements in real time and tells the earpiece when the patient moved their arm particularly well.

This triggers stimulation of the vagus nerve and the brain learns to recall the correct sequence of movements faster and more effectively. The technical term for this process is reinforcement learning. Since nerve cells communicate through changes in the flow of electricity, an electrical impulse to the ear can trigger a neural signal that travels up the vagus nerve to the brain. Credit: Donegan and Viskaitis / ETH Zurich

Home treatment possible

Unlike previous treatment options, stroke patients can use the technology developed by the two ETH researchers also without professional supervision. What's more, the movement sensor will make it possible for physical therapists to monitor their patients' progress conveniently using a smartphone. The ETH researchers expect this to yield further progress in treatment.

By the end of this summer, Viskaitis and Donegan want to launch an ETH spin-off and move ahead with tests on healthy people as quickly as possible. They plan to then proceed with the first clinical study.

More information: Project page SKAALTEC
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A confirmed case of tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) was recently reported in England. TBE is a disease that can lead to inflammation in the brain and is caused by a virus transmitted by the bite of a tick.

These blood-feeding arthropods can harbor and transmit various infectious diseases. Many associate tick bites with Lyme disease, however, in much of Europe (northern, central, and eastern regions and beyond through to parts of Asia), TBE virus can be transmitted by the same ticks.

In fact, more than 3,800 cases of TBE were reported across 24 European countries during 2020, according to the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control. The incidence in Europe was 0.9 cases per 100,000 people in 2020, but this shows significant variation by country. For example, the rate was 7.9 per 100,000 in the Czech Republic and 24.3 per 100,000 in Lithuania.

A general upward trend in human cases has been noted over recent years, while there have been expansions to the usual known areas for TBE. We don't fully understand the reasons for this, but climate change is likely to be an important factor.

This virus wasn't present in the UK until recent years. An initial case was reported in 2019 in an infant who acquired the infection in southern England. This was followed by another probable case from southern England in 2020. In June 2022 a case was reported in Scotland, and the most recent case, reported in October 2022, was a person thought to have become infected while visiting England's North Yorkshire Moors.

Taken together, this evidence suggests that the TBE virus is now successfully circulating in the UK, albeit at low levels.

How did it get here?

Ticks can "hitch a lift" on migratory birds, which is probably the route of entry into the UK. However, for the virus to establish and circulate, specific climatic conditions are needed that allow the different life stages of a tick to feed on the blood of their vertebrate host (such as a rodent). The virus can be transferred from infected to non-infected ticks when both feed on the same host.

Since 2019, studies of ticks in the UK have detected low levels of TBE virus in ticks from both Thetford forest and the Hampshire and Dorset border region. Ticks infected with TBE virus have also been detected in the New Forest and the North Yorkshire Moors.

Slight differences have been found in the genetic background between these viruses, suggesting there have been introductions from multiple locations.

TBE virus can be divided into five variants based on the geographical areas in which they're generally found. The variant being detected in the UK to date belongs to the European subtype of TBE virus and has been one of the milder variants.

Each variant consists of multiple strains. Those detected in the UK have shown similarity to the Norwegian Mandal, a strain identified in 2009, and a strain detected in 2017 in the Netherlands.

Symptoms

Although the virus has encephalitis in its name, becoming infected doesn't necessarily mean you will get encephalitis (swelling of the brain).

The effects of this virus can range from having no symptoms at all, to fever, fatigue and body pains, through to infection of the central nervous system where it results in inflammation (meningitis to severe encephalitis) that can lead to long-term neurological damage or death. Encephalitis is more common in older patients.

More serious symptoms to look out for that may indicate encephalitis include severe headache, a stiff neck, confusion, and weakness in the arms and legs.

Preventing TBE

Typically, TBE shows a seasonal pattern with a peak in July and August.

There is a vaccine that has been used to prevent TBE in endemic regions for many years. The vaccines are safe and highly effective, but require boosters.

While the levels of TBE virus are low in the UK, vaccination is probably not justifiable, but this needs to be actively monitored. Vaccination might be considered for selected groups at high risk of tick exposure, such as forestry workers.

The vaccine is also worth considering for people visiting a country where TBE is common and planning to do outdoor activities while there. The vaccine isn't available on the NHS but can be accessed through travel clinics.

As we're seeing TBE virus become established in the UK, we need to ensure that those who become sick after tick bites receive a screen for a full range of tick-borne pathogens, rather than just the better-known Lyme disease tests. Accordingly, the UK Health and Security Agency has recommended changes to testing in hospitals to ensure quick detection of new cases.

Also, enhanced surveillance of ticks will be important to help us understand TBE risk in different areas of the UK.

While the overall risk to the public is very low, people can take simple measures to reduce the risk of tick bites when outdoors in moorlands and woodlands. These include walking on clearly marked paths, covering skin with clothing as much as possible, and using insect repellents such as Deet.

It's also worthwhile checking your body for ticks after time spent in potentially tick-infested areas. Anyone who becomes unwell after a tick bite should see a doctor.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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Vitamin D deficiency could be the reason African American men experience more aggressive prostate cancer at a younger age compared with European American men, new research from Cedars-Sinai Cancer suggests. The multi-institutional study, published today in Cancer Research Communications, could pave the way for revised nutritional guidelines.

While previous research has investigated vitamin D in the context of health disparities, this is the first study to look at its functions in a genome-wide manner in African American versus European American men.

"African American men are more likely than European American men to develop prostate cancer, and are twice as likely to die from the disease," said Moray Campbell, Ph.D., research scientist at Cedars-Sinai Cancer and senior author of the study. "Large-scale studies have shown that differences in access to health care do not fully account for this health disparity, and our study identifies biological factors that might explain it."

Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, which is essential for bone health, but it also helps stimulate the maturation of cells, Campbell said. Unlike normal cells, cancer cells do not mature and die. They continue to divide, creating more and more abnormal cells.

"Without sufficient levels of vitamin D to cause them to mature, the cells in a tumor continue to multiply out of control," Campbell said.

Campbell and fellow investigators found that the vitamin D receptor, a protein that helps the body use vitamin D, appears to have adapted differently in people of African ancestry.

"The forebears of African American and European American men adapted to the climates where they originated," Campbell said. "African men retain higher melanin levels in the skin to protect against the strong sunwhich also helps the body produce vitamin D. Because of this, their descendants in the U.S., which receives fewer hours per year of bright sunshine than African countries do, are often vitamin D deficient."

When investigators examined prostate cancer cells from patients of African and European descent, developed in the lab of Clayton Yates, Ph.D., at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, they noted differences between how these groups of cells reacted to exposure to vitamin D.

"Their response to vitamin D was very, very different, including which genes the vitamin D receptor was controlling and the magnitude of that control," Campbell said. "In African American men, this differing response made them more vulnerable to prostate cancer."

Campbell noted that further research along these lines could lead to a revision of nutritional guidelines for vitamin D intakefor both bone and prostate healthbased on genetic ancestry. Further work, he said, is needed to determine the level of vitamin D that would be most beneficial for each group, and to examine how the vitamin D receptor works with other proteins associated with prostate cancer.

"Cedars-Sinai Cancer delivers care to one of the most diverse populations in the U.S., and this study is an example of the many initiatives underway to unlock the root causes of health disparities," said Dan Theodorescu, MD, Ph.D., director of Cedars-Sinai Cancer and the PHASE ONE Distinguished Chair. "It also shows how multi-institutional collaboration can maximize the potential of our work and why we place so much importance on our Community Outreach and Engagement (COE) team to engage diverse populations in cancer research."

Campbell and colleagues plan further investigation of a group of microRNAssmall molecules that help regulate gene expressionin regions of the genome regulated by the vitamin D receptor. They found an association between these microRNAs and prostate cancer that could eventually be used to develop blood tests that offer a more complete picture of prostate health. The team also plans to examine vitamin D and its relationship to health disparities in other hormone-dependent cancers, such as breast cancer.

More information: African American Prostate Cancer Displays Quantitatively Distinct Vitamin D Receptor Cistrome-transcriptome Relationships Regulated by BAZ1A, Cancer Research Communications (2023).
INDIANAPOLIS (AP)  Indiana lawmakers gave a key sign of support Monday for the governors proposal that would broadly expand the states support for county-level public health programs toward improving the state's poor national rankings in areas such as smoking, obesity and life expectancy.

Indiana House members voted 78-21 in favor of the bill, with opposition coming from among the most conservative Republican members. Those votes against the proposal came despite changes to specify that elected county officials can opt out of the state program at any time since the Republican-dominated Senate endorsed the bill in February.

House Public Health Committee Chairman Brad Barrett urged support for the proposal, saying that county health programs are strapped for resources and those troubles were magnified by the COVID-19 pandemic.

It only brought to light the fact that this was uncoordinated and poorly funded, said Barrett, a Republican from Richmond.

The bill lays out core public health services for which county health departments would be directed to provide with acceptance of more state funding. Those would include access to required childhood vaccinations, emergency preparedness, restaurant and sewage system inspections, communicable disease prevention and smoking cessation programs.

House and Senate negotiators face a deadline by the end of next week to reach agreement on a final version of the plan. They also face determining how much state money to direct toward the funding boost from the current $7 million a year that go toward county health departments, which are primarily funded by local taxes.

Lawmakers have whittled down Republican Gov. Eric Holcombs request for nearly $350 million over the next two years for county health funding and other initiatives such as improving the states trauma care network. House and Senate budget proposals have reduced the state funding to at most $225 million.

Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Ryan Mishler said last week that several Republican senators have had concerns about state officials possibly taking more control over local health departments.

While county officials would have the option of accepting the money and expanding services, some opponents with complaints over government-ordered COVID-19 precautions said during legislative committee hearings that they feared creeping state authority over local health agencies. Plan opponents focused on issues such as complaints over federal approval of COVID-19 vaccines and Holcombs executive orders early in the pandemic for business closures and a face mask mandate.

Republican former state Sen. Luke Kenley, who was co-chairman of a Holcomb-appointed commission on public health, said Indiana needed to improve county public health department funding from its 45th-place national ranking even in the face of vociferous opponents.

Theyre still fighting the wars of the pandemic about vaccinations and mask and mandates and somebodys telling us what to do, Kenley said.

Similar grievances were aired to Indiana lawmakers as they debated a proposal last year that failed to win passage aiming to severely limit the COVID-19 vaccine requirements that businesses could impose on employees.

Holcomb has made the public health proposal one of his top priorities for the new two-year state budget. Pointing to Indianas rankings near the bottom nationally in areas including obesity, smoking and life expectancy as a pattern we need to reverse, Holcomb has said We need to get healthier as a state, theres just no two ways about it.
Welcome to the newest offering at The Ridge Above Rock Creek! This well appointed home offered by award winning builder Cornerstone Construction focuses on style, elegance and function. It starts with almost 3,000 SF of living space split up between 5 bedrooms ( two suits) and elegantly styled by well known interior designer to offer a best in class experience. We are available for builder and design consultations upon request. Located just 20 miles east of Missoula, The Ridge Above Rock Creek would speak to the heart of anyone who ever loved Norman McLean's' A River Runs Through it. Residency at the Ridge Above Rock Creek gives you the opportunity to explore and recreate on 437 acres of shared recreational area. For more information, call Jeremy or Kim Williams at (406) 926-6767 or text rarc to 59559 or your real estate professional. For those who crave wider spaces and untouched lands, the Ridge Above Rock Creek is the perfect place to call home with a blend of tranquility and outside adventures all found within this distinct mountain community. Imagine beginning your day waking up to the whisper of pine trees and the sounds of nature outside your bedroom window, or the view from your deck as you sip your morning coffee and capture the gaze of a deer or an eagle soaring. One of the most distinct features of life at the Ridge Above Rock Creek is close proximity to the iconic Rock Creek drainage, a mecca for anglers of all skill levels. Located conveniently close to Missoula, Rock Creek flows primarily through National Forest lands, allowing for excellent access to most of the creek's length. This creek is often referred to nationally as 'the angler's dream' with cool and clear waters that are known for brown, rainbow, cutthroat and brook trout. If you are searching for the perfect place to call home and embrace the Western Montana lifestyle, we invite you to schedule a private tour and meet with our team to learn more about living at the Ridge Above Rock Creek. Call or text Jeremy Williams at 406-926-6767 or Kim Williams at 406-546-6342, or your real estate professional. Stop dreaming and start exploring new possibilities for a captivating and adventurous way of life!

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Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is proposing a significant increase to compensation under its new habitat leasing program, including doubling funding.

Last year, FWP announced the new leasing program as an addition to programs funded by Habitat Montana. Using funding from hunting license sales, Habitat Montana is also used for conservation easements and land purchases. The program opened for applications last summer.

The program saw a mixed reaction from hunting and access groups who applauded additional access tools but also raised concerns about impacts to easements and land purchases.

Agency leaders said at the time FWP would continue to pursue easements and purchases, but those have stirred some controversy in the past and leasing could provide an additional option.

Under the current program FWP seeks long-term leases of 30-40 years, with terms similar to perpetual conservation easements held by the department. State funding would be leveraged against federal funding or other sources in an effort to sign up to 500,000 acres over the next five years. Terms of the leases would include limits on development and allowance of some public access.

The program ranks priority prairie habitats for funding with a focus on sage grouse, including sagebrush grasslands, mixed grass prairie and wetland-grassland in eastern and southwest Montana, involving habitats overlapping with parts of 45 counties.

Lease payments are set at a fixed rate per acre paid upfront to a landowner. Rates are set at 5-10% of the lands fee simple value, determined by an average value per acre of habitat types in that part of the state.

A lease could be broken by the landowner, but that would incur repayment of the remainder and a 25% penalty.

While the programs initial goal aimed for 500,000 acres in five years, the initial call for applications netted only six totaling about 10,000 acres. The low interest led to FWPs recent proposals and request for comment on upping compensation.

The response to our call for applications was considerably less than what we were hoping for, said FWP spokesperson Greg Lemon. We're proposing some changes to make the program more attractive and flexible for landowners.

FWP now proposes increasing the payment level to 15% of average fee title value for a 30year lease and 20% of fee title value plus a 5% bonus for a 40year lease. That would bring total program costs from an estimated $25 million-$35 million to $50 million-$75 million over the first five years.

The proposal also calls for dropping the penalty for a landowner breaking a lease should they wish to pursue permanent conservation protections.

FWP is accepting public comment on the proposals until May 1 at www.fwp.mt.gov.
Republican Gov. Greg Gianforte on Monday issued an amendatory veto to a bill that would ban some gender-affirming care for transgender minors in Montana and later in the day the state Senate OK'd the changes.

The legislation is Senate Bill 99, from Sen. John Fuller, a Whitefish Republican. It passed through the House and Senate largely along party lines, with all its support coming from Republicans. A few GOP legislators, along with all Democrats, have opposed it.

One of the most intensely debated bills of the session, SB 99 drew emotional testimony from those both for and against it. Fuller has argued the bill is necessary to protect minors, saying Children live under the guardianship and guidance of adults precisely because they lack the maturity, prudence and experience to make safe and responsible decisions for themselves.

But opponents argue the kinds of surgeries the bill bans are not performed on minors in Montana and that the legislation would harm children seeking care they say is necessary to keep them healthy. Others say the bill would trample the rights of parents to make decisions for their children.

In his amendment, Gianforte said he felt the legislation was incomplete and can be strengthened. The governor may return bills to the chamber they started in with his proposals for changes, and lawmakers can vote to accept or reject the suggestions. The other chamber must also weigh in. If both the Senate and House accept or reject the amendments, the bill goes back to Gianforte. If the chambers are divided, the bill goes to a conference committee.

Gianforte proposes to alter definitions of male and female in the bill to contemplate treatment for a child requiring a necessary medical procedure because he or she was born with a medically verifiable disorder of sex development, according to the veto letter.

Those changes, Gianforte said, would encompass children still undergoing biological development or with intersex conditions, or a cancer diagnosis requiring the surgical removal of reproductive organs.

The governors definition of male is tied to having XY chromosomes and female as XX, though doctors who have testified on other bills point out a variety of syndromes can fall outside of those definitions, such as Turner syndrome, where one of the X chromosome in females is missing. However, Gianforte also added language saying an individual who would otherwise fall within this definition, but for a biological or genetic condition, is (male or female).

Dr. Lauren Wilson, president of the Montana Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, said Monday evening the changes from Gianforte do not address concerns raised by opponents about limiting the care available for those with intersex conditions.

The definitions in this bill are not medically accurate and it doesnt solve the problem of people who have intersex conditions accessing medical care, Wilson said.

SB 99 was previously amended by lawmakers in an attempt to allow care for those with intersex conditions, but medical professionals said the definitions were not broad enough.

Gianfortes language, he wrote, also clarifies what procedures are banned and strengthens prohibitions on public funding paying for care.

The bill bans surgical procedures such as implantations and mastectomy, as well as hormones and puberty blockers, but only for trans minors. Fuller has cited his concerns those treatments may harm children, though the bill does not stop them from being administered to cis-gender minors, who may undergo treatment for things like early puberty.

Gianforte wrote that he had met with transgender youth and adults in considering his actions on the bill.

I understand their struggles are real, and my heart goes out to them. I firmly believe that, as with all of Gods children, Montanans who struggle with their gender identity deserve love, compassion and respect, Gianforte wrote.

While a few people who had gender-affirming treatment as adults told lawmakers they later regretted their choice, many more Montanans who have received gender-affirming treatment and their parents have testified to lawmakers about how it has prevented them from suicidal thoughts and dramatically improved their lives. In his letter Gianforte wrote Gender-affirming care for children is Orwellian Newspeak, a seemingly innocuous, even solicitous phrase that masks its true nature of permanent, invasive, life-altering and surgical procedures, performed on children whose young minds and bodies are still developing.

Wilson said the letter contains statements found in anti-trans circles to describe medical care that are frankly wrong and dangerous.

(Gianforte's) statements about gender-affirming care run counter to the consensus in the scientific and medical world, Wilson said. There is also strong evidence of benefits to therapies when they are chosen in a thoughtful way by families and clinics together to address specific needs children might have.

Doctors also testified that surgeries mentioned in the bill are not performed on minors in Montana, and other types of care do not happen without the consent of both parents and a lengthy consultation process. Gianfortes letter referenced surgeries and puberty blockers for minors happening in the country, but not Montana specifically.

While Gianforte wrote the bill does not prohibit social affirmation or providing or accessing psychotherapy to treat young Montanans struggling with their gender identity, Wilson disputed that characterization.

She pointed to language in the bill that says state property, facilities or buildings may not knowingly be used to promote or advocate the use of social transitioning, medication, or surgery as a treatment to address an inconsistency between a minor's sex and the minor's perceived gender or perceived sex.

Fuller on Monday evening said he thought the governors changes showed compassion and legal acuity.

But Sen. Jen Gross, a Democrat from Billings, opposed the amendment.

If you think that farmers know best about farming, ranchers know best about ranching, tow truck drivers know best about tow truck rigs, business owners know best about business, real estate realtors know best about real estate, then let's show some semblance of consistency and leave being trans and raising trans kids to the experts. Those experts are their parents and their doctors, Gross said.

Minority Leader Pat Flowers, of Belgrade, said he was frustrated the Senate had spent so much time on the bill instead of other issues like housing, child care and property taxes.

(This is) taking away rights from families to make their own decision, and it's the same body that over and over again talks about parental rights, except when those parental rights violate whatever your propriety (is), Flowers said.

The amendment was OK'd on a second reading by a 31-19 margin with three Republicans and all Democrats against it.

Drag show ban amended

Another bill thats been opposed by transgender Montanans and their allies was heavily amended in the Senate on Monday in a way the carrier said completely derails the intent of the legislation.

The bill is House Bill 359 from Rep. Braxton Mitchell, R-Columbia Falls. The bill has gone through several iterations and the version that appeared before the Senate would have banned minors attending some drag performances and barred story times with drag performers in schools, libraries and museums.

The amendment added Monday from Sen. Chris Friedel, R-Billings, strikes the term "drag" from the bill's title and instead would prohibit minors at "adult-oriented shows" in libraries, schools or adult-oriented businesses. It would also ban "adult-oriented performances" in front of minors on public property or in places that get state funding.

The amendment adds the definition of adult-oriented as a performance intended to appeal to a prurient interest in sex and features the purposeful exposure of human genital, the pubic region, the human buttocks, or a female breast, if the breast is exposed below a point immediately above the top of the areola; or prosthetic genitalia, breasts, or buttocks; or sexual conduct.

The past version of the bill banned drag specifically, and defined it in part based on clothing or makeup worn by the performer that did not conform with the person's sex assigned at birth.

Friedel said he liked the bill but was concerned the unamended version would not hold up in court. Several other states have passed similar bans and a judge in Tennessee has blocked that states new law.

If it wasnt amended, Friedel argued even the most conservative judge will strike it down for a constitutionality reason. He told fellow senators the bill will be more easily defended if it ends up in court, which has been promised by opponents.

Sen. Carl Glimm, the Kila Republican who carried the bill in the Senate, urged lawmakers to oppose the amendment.

It really just completely guts the bill, Glimm said.

 Reporter Seaborn Larson contributed to this story.
On Tuesday the House joined the Senate in approving Republican Gov. Greg Gianforte's amendatory veto to a bill that would ban some gender-affirming care for transgender minors in Montana.

The legislation is Senate Bill 99, from Sen. John Fuller, a Whitefish Republican. It passed through the House and Senate largely along party lines, with all its support coming from Republicans. A few GOP legislators, along with all Democrats, have opposed it. It's now heading back to Gianforte.

One of the most intensely debated bills of the session, SB 99 drew emotional testimony from those both for and against it. Fuller has argued the bill is necessary to protect minors, saying Children live under the guardianship and guidance of adults precisely because they lack the maturity, prudence and experience to make safe and responsible decisions for themselves.

But opponents argue the kinds of surgeries the bill bans are not performed on minors in Montana and that the legislation would harm children seeking care they say is necessary to keep them healthy. Others say the bill would trample the rights of parents to make decisions for their children.

In his amendment, Gianforte said he felt the legislation was incomplete and can be strengthened. Gianforte proposed to alter definitions of male and female in the bill to contemplate treatment for a child requiring a necessary medical procedure because he or she was born with a medically verifiable disorder of sex development, according to the veto letter.

Those changes, Gianforte said, would encompass children still undergoing biological development or with intersex conditions, or a cancer diagnosis requiring the surgical removal of reproductive organs.

Dr. Lauren Wilson, president of the Montana Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, said Monday evening the changes from Gianforte do not address concerns raised by opponents about limiting the care available for those with intersex conditions.

The definitions in this bill are not medically accurate and it doesnt solve the problem of people who have intersex conditions accessing medical care, Wilson said.

SB 99 was previously amended by lawmakers in an attempt to allow care for those with intersex conditions, but medical professionals said the definitions were not broad enough.

Gianfortes language, he wrote, also clarifies what procedures are banned and strengthens prohibitions on public funding paying for care.

Gianforte wrote that he had met with transgender youth and adults in considering his actions on the bill.

I understand their struggles are real, and my heart goes out to them. I firmly believe that, as with all of Gods children, Montanans who struggle with their gender identity deserve love, compassion and respect, Gianforte wrote.

In his letter Gianforte wrote Gender-affirming care for children is Orwellian Newspeak, a seemingly innocuous, even solicitous phrase that masks its true nature of permanent, invasive, life-altering and surgical procedures, performed on children whose young minds and bodies are still developing.

Martha Fuller, the president and CEO of Planned Parenthood of Montana, was also critical of the letter.

"If the governor truly believed his words that trans youth deserve love, compassion, and respect, then he wouldn't be supporting this ban on critical health care," Fuller wrote in a press release Tuesday.

Doctors also testified that surgeries mentioned in the bill are not performed on minors in Montana, and other types of care do not happen without the consent of both parents and a lengthy consultation process. Gianfortes letter referenced surgeries and puberty blockers for minors happening in the country, but not Montana specifically.

While Gianforte wrote the bill does not prohibit social affirmation or providing or accessing psychotherapy to treat young Montanans struggling with their gender identity, Wilson disputed that characterization.

She pointed to language in the bill that says state property, facilities or buildings may not knowingly be used to promote or advocate the use of social transitioning, medication, or surgery as a treatment to address an inconsistency between a minor's sex and the minor's perceived gender or perceived sex.

Fuller on Monday evening said he thought the governors changes showed compassion and legal acuity.

But Democrats strongly opposed the amendment, just as they have the legislation. In the House, Rep. Zooey Zephyr, D-Missoula, sharply rebuked Gianforte's letter accompanying the amendment.

"(Gianforte) said Montanans who struggle with their gender identity deserve love, compassion, and respect. That's not what trans Montanans need from you. We need access to the medical care that saves our lives. And these are hollow words coming from someone who's amendments are going to make it harder to access that care," Zephyr said.

Zephyr is the first openly transgender legislator in Montana.

"If you are forcing a trans child to go through puberty when they are trans, that is tantamount to torture. And this body should be ashamed," Zephyr continued, drawing the first objection from Majority Leader Rep. Sue Vinton, R-Billings.

At the end of her opposition, Zephyr referenced the testimony of people opposed to the bill who have said it could increase suicides among trans Montanans. Data shows trans youth are more at risk of suicide, and a Bozeman doctor earlier in the session emailed legislators about a minor who had attempted suicide and while in the emergency department cited legislation lawmakers were considering as a contributing factor.

"If you vote yes on this bill, and yes on these amendments, I hope the next time there's an invocation when you bow your heads in prayer, you see the blood on your hands," Zephyr said.

Vinton again objected.

"That is entirely inappropriate, disrespectful and uncalled for. We can debate matters civilly and with respect for each other," Vinton said.

The amendments in the House passed 66-34, with two Republicans joining all Democrats against in. On Monday the Senate approved the amendment on a second reading by a 31-19 margin with three Republicans and all Democrats against it.
WARSAW, Poland  Thousands of people assembled Tuesday at the former site of Auschwitz for the March of the Living, a yearly Holocaust remembrance march that falls this year on the eve of the 80th anniversary of the outbreak of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising.

Participants in the solemn event included Holocaust survivors who lived through the agony of Auschwitz or one of the other death camps where Nazi Germany sought to exterminate the Jewish population of Europe, and came close to doing so.

Italian President Sergio Mattarella spoke at the event, warning that the ideas of the 1930s are reappearing at a time when Russias inhuman aggression against Ukraine is still raging." He callled the memory of the Holocaust an eternal warning that cannot be ignored.

Hate, prejudice, racism, extremism, antisemitism, indifference, delusion and hunger for power lurk, constantly challenging the consciences of individuals and nations, said Mattarella, whose nation under dictator Benito Mussolini was allied with Adolf Hitler's Germany during the war.

Some attendees, including people from Israel and the United States, came face to face for the first time with something that has long been part of their psyche: the watchtowers, remnants of gas chambers and the huge piles of shoes, suitcases and other objects the victims brought with them on their final journey.

German forces established Auschwitz after they invaded and occupied Poland, and killed more than 1.1 million people there, most of them Jews but also Poles, Roma, Soviet prisoners of war, and others. In all, about 6 million European Jews died during the Holocaust.

Elderly survivors, some draped in Israel's blue and white flag, assembled under the gate with the cynical words "Arbeit Macht Frei"  Work Sets One Free  ahead of the march.

The March of the Living, which takes place each year on Israel's Holocaust Remembrance Day, begins at that gate and leads to Birkenau, the large camp 2 miles away where Jews from across Europe were transported by train and murdered in gas chambers.

The event, while somber, is also a celebration of survival and the state of Israel, and some participants clapped and sang as they prepared to march near the gate.

Phyllis Greenberg Heideman, the march president, said the young participants would bear the responsibility for carrying forward the memory of the witnesses.

They will be the voice of those who no longer have voice once they see and understand what happened in the past, she said.

Some of the participants will travel the next day to Warsaw for observances marking the uprising in the Warsaw Ghetto in 1943, which will be attended by the presidents of Poland, Germany and Israel.

On Tuesday, Polish Culture Minister Piotr Glinski attended a ceremony symbolically marking a new stage in the development of a museum scheduled to open in three years, the Warsaw Ghetto Museum. Officials buried a time capsule containing memorabilia and a message to future generations on the grounds of a former childrens hospital which will house the museum.

The revolt was the largest single act of Jewish resistance during the Holocaust and remains a potent national symbol for Israel.

A third of the worlds Jews were murdered in the Holocaust. Israel was established in the aftermath in 1948, and hundreds of thousands of survivors fled to the Jewish state.

In Israel itself, activities ground to a halt for a nationwide moment of silence Tuesday in remembrance of Holocaust victims as a two-minute siren wailed across the country. Vehicles and pedestrians stopped on streets and highways as Israelis stood, heads bowed, in solemn remembrance.

The somber day is also marked by ceremonies and memorials at schools and community centers. Restaurants and cafes shutter, and TV and radio stations play Holocaust-themed programs.

Official observances started Monday evening with a ceremony at the Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial in Jerusalem as six survivors, including one of the few remaining survivors of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, lit torches for the memory of the 6 million killed.

Israel's figurehead president called for national unity after months of protests against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's planned judicial overhaul that divided the country.
As satisfying as it feels to donate money, the whole point of charitable giving is to contribute to organizations that are making real positive change, whether it's finding innovative new cures for cancer or protecting the rainforests. But judging a charity's true impact, especially when the charity is combating a deeply entrenched problem like poverty or homelessness, isn't always easy to do.

"Effectiveness is really tough to get at," says Daniel Borochoff, president and founder of Charity Watch, an independent organization dedicated to investigating, analyzing and rating U.S. charities. (Note: We spoke with Borochoff in 2018. He retired as CharityWatch president in 2020, though is still on their board of directors.) "What I encourage people to do is look for specific accomplishments in relation to spending. For example, 'We're spending this much money and we're able to feed this many people.'"

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You should be able to easily find that type of information on a charity's website or in the "outcomes" section of its annual report. If an organization doesn't publish an annual report or can't back up its claims of making a difference with actual statistics, that's not a good sign.

If efficacy is your top priority, consider giving to one of the Top Charities chosen by the research team at GiveWell, a nonprofit organization that handpicks a small group of fully vetted international charities. Only nine charities currently make the cut, and each of them was selected based on four criteria: they must be evidence-based, cost-effective, transparent and underfunded.

All of GiveWell's top charities focus on global health and global poverty alleviation, because that's where inexpensive, targeted interventions can make the biggest difference, says Isabel Arjmand, internal communications officer at GiveWell. For example, it doesn't cost much to make and distribute insecticide-treated nets, but they've proven to be highly effective for stopping the deadly spread of malaria. Same with inexpensive vitamin A drops that can effectively prevent blindness and malnutrition in children.

Arjmand says that the GiveWell team, composed of Ph.Ds in economics and public policy, builds complex cost models that take into account dozens of different inputs. They put in thousands of hours investigating each charity and even make site visits to see the work in action. Last year, Arjmand and some GiveWell colleagues spent two weeks in Guinea in East Africa meeting with a team from Helen Keller International, which distributes vitamin A drops. It's that level of research that makes GiveWell a smart destination for maximizing the impact of your donation.
A Lincoln County teacher has been charged with 24 counts of felony sex offenses, including 12 counts of taking indecent liberties with a student.

Brittain Lee Nichols, 29, of Fort Mill, South Carolina, was arrested on Monday, according to a news release from the Lincolnton Police Department.

Police said they received a report of a teacher taking indecent liberties with a student at Battleground Elementary School on Jeb Seagle Drive in Lincolnton.

Police said the investigation led officers to three additional victims by the same suspect.

Police said some of the victims had more than one encounter with Nichols at the school.

Nichols is being held in the Lincoln County Jail under a $150,000 bond, the release said. He is charged with 12 counts of taking indecent liberties with a student and 12 counts of taking indecent liberties with a child.

Police are asking anyone with more information to call Detective Diallo at 704-736-8900.
On this episode of the Utterly Moderate Podcast, we are joined by Michael Shermer from Skeptic Magazine to discuss the rise of conspiracy theories in America.

Make sure to check out Shermer's new book on the subject, Conspiracy: Why the Rational Believe the Irrational.

The Connors Forum is an independent entity from the institutions that we partner with. The views expressed in our newsletters and podcasts are those of the individual contributors alone and not of our partner institutions.

Episode Music:
Some Butte School District parents may have been surprised when they looked at their school calendars and saw their kids had every Friday off this coming May.

Was Butte School District considering a four-day school week, as roughly 175 Montana schools already have?

No, said Judy Jonart, superintendent of Butte School District.

Were not trying a four-day week, she said. Thats not what our purpose is.

In fact, she said, moving to a four-day week is not something the district is considering and is not part of any future plans.

Rather, a calendar committee of teachers and administrators chose to schedule the the upcoming Fridays off in a way that they felt made the most sense for the 2022-2023 school year.

Two decades ago, the accreditation standards in Montana pivoted from requiring students to attend 180 calendar days to 1,080 calendar hours for fourth- through 12th-grades, allowing school districts more flexibility.

Jonart said the district opted to not have a spring break this year, choosing instead to take Fridays off in May because its a very busy month for everybody, and we usually have the Friday off before Memorial Day.

She said the calendar committee brought the calendar option to the Butte Teachers Union, which overwhelmingly voted for it.

Nixing spring break isnt new either, Jonart said, and was Butte School Districts norm up until about eight years ago.

Jonart said that when the school district did this before, it enabled the district to either start school later than usual or let out earlier than usual for summer break, depending on the year.

So far, Jonart hasnt heard complaints about the Friday-less Mays or the spring break-less year from parents, she said. However, she's been told by a couple of board trustees that they have.

The committee hasnt made for the calendar for next year yet  that will be next month, and informed by how the month of May goes this year.

Nothing has been settled. We wanted to see how it worked, Jonart said. I think some people will really like it and some will not. We dont even know if well like it.
Tuesday

Birthday party bags need items

The Dillon Girl Scouts have a project planned to assemble Birthday In A Bag party kits to donate to the local food bank for distribution to children. Donated birthday party items may be dropped off at Womacks Printing, 126 N. Montana St. in Dillon, no later than Wednesday. Suggested items to donate are box cake mixes, frosting, sprinkles, candles, 12 oz. cans of Sprite or other lemon-lime flavored soda, gender neutral party favors (hats, balloons, party blowers), disposable cake pans (9x12 or 9x13) and medium-sized gift bags.

Time to dance

Mining City Dance Company's annual dance recital will be hosted at the Mother Lode, 316 W. Park St., starting at 7 p.m. Children ages 3-18 will perform routines in tap, jazz, ballet, lyrical contemporary and hip-hop.

Clubs and meetings

Uptown Toasters Toastmaster Club meets at noon at the Butte Public Archives, 17 W. Quartz St. For details, call 406-490-4045.

Country 2-step dance lessons will be held at 6 p.m. at the Butte Elks Lodge, 206 W. Galena. There will be a beginner class from 6 to 7:15 p.m. and 7:15 to 8:30 p.m. A donation of $7 is suggested and will go directly to the Butte Elks Lodge for maintenance and upkeep of the building. For details, call Dave Sabado at 717-917-8509.

Imagine Butte Resource Center in the Phoenix Building, 68 W. Park St., offers open print studio hours at 5 p.m. Participants can learn about printmaking, how to use the studio space and develop their own projects. A suggested donation is $10 to print if you are using the equipment to complete a project.

Butte Public Library offers an an after-school Lego build from 4 to 5 p.m. in its teen zone. Snacks and materials are provided. For details, call 406-723-3361.

Butte-Silver Bow Public Library offers tech tips from 11 a.m. to noon at the Belmont Senior Center, 615 E. Mercury St. For details, call 406-723-3361.

Loosely Knit Club meets 1 to 3 p.m. at the Butte Public Library to knit, crochet or craft together. The group welcomes new members and drop-ins. For details, call 406-723-3361.
The Becoming an Outdoors Woman program in Miles City is in need of instructors with outdoor skills.

Organized by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, an informational meeting is scheduled for Saturday, April 22, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Sleep Inn & Suites in Miles City, with lunch provided.

Kylie Kembel, FWP outdoor skills coordinator in Helena, will provide an overview of BOW and discuss the role volunteer instructors would play.

BOW, a nationwide program, introduces women to different outdoor skills such as fishing, hunting, shooting, archery, orienteering, camp cooking, kayaking and much more. BOW provides participants with information, encouragement, and hands-on instruction in a non-intimidating setting. Events are designed for people who are new to outdoor activities and for those who want to expand their knowledge.

Topics are often based on instructor skills and interests, so the program is always open to new ideas.

BOW instructors can be men or women. To better serve this area, FWP is seeking people based in southeast Montana counties including Custer, Treasure, Garfield, Rosebud, Prairie, Powder River, Carter, Fallon, Wibaux and Dawson.

Please RSVP to FWP by Wednesday, April 19, if you plan on attending so organizers have a headcount for lunch. You can RSVP at 406-234-0926 or mprell@mt.gov.
A bill that brings accountability and transparency to Indian Education for All cleared the Senate last week.

The bill passed with wide margins, earning 46 yes votes in the second reading and 47 in the third reading from the 50-seat chamber.

Enacted by the Legislature in 1999, Indian Education for All (IEFA) requires recognition of Native American culture and a commitment in the state's educational goals to preserve Indigenous culture and heritage.

Montana was the first state to constitutionally mandate Indigenous education, but some say the law has not been adequately implemented. Tribes in Montana and parents of 18 students in 2021 filed a lawsuit alleging that education leaders failed to teach the culture and heritage of Native Americans, and therefore violated the Constitution. Earlier this month, a judge refused to dismiss the suit. The lawsuit also alleges that schools have used the funds on things that do not relate to Indigenous education, including an elementary school in Helena that appeared to purchase a book on marmots with the funds.

House Bill 338, brought by Rep. Jonathan Windy Boy, D-Box Elder, brings transparency and accountability to IEFA by establishing new requirements for both instruction and reporting. The bill requires school districts to provide IEFA, whereas previously, Montanans were encouraged to learn about Native culture and heritage.

The bill also enacts stricter reporting guidelines. Previously, public school districts were asked to file a report with the Office of Public Instruction, in a form dictated by the Superintendent of Public Instruction, specifying how IEFA funds were used. HB 338 strikes the participation of the superintendent and states the report must include expenses as well as detailed descriptions of the instruction provided and descriptions of how this instruction was developed in cooperation with tribes. The bill stipulates that if a district fails to file the annual report, it will be ineligible to receive funding until the report is filed.

The bill requires educational agencies to provide IEFA, and it defines educational agencies as the Montana University System, professional educator preparation programs accredited by the Board of Public Education, the Office of Public Instruction and school districts.

During the bills second hearing before the Senate, Sen. Susan Webber, D-Browning, said IEFA has helped tremendously in revitalizing tribal languages.

We still have a ways to go, she added. But this bill and its intent is tremendous for our tribal languages.
By Alex Pologruto | Apr 18, 2023

The annual Kite Festival and Earth Day Celebration will take place at the Murray State Arboretum on Saturday, April 22 from 10 a.m.  2 p.m.

MURRAY, Ky.  Murray State Universitys chapter of Alpha Mu Gamma (AMG), the national foreign language honors society, along with the Japanese Club, Department of Global Languages and Theatre Arts, International Student Organization and the Horticulture Club will host the Murray State Kite Festival and Earth Day Celebration on Saturday, April 22 at the Murray State University Arboretum (300 Hickory Drive in Murray, Kentucky). The Kite Festival is from 10 a.m.  noon and the Earth Day activities are from 10 a.m.  2 p.m.

The activities provide a great chance for community members to experience different cultures from around the world. Children attending the festival will receive a passport that they can get stamped at tables and booths around the Arboretum. Booths will have prizes, crafts including kite-making and activities from a variety of countries.

Skyler Wilson, a graduate student specializing in sustainable agriculture, is organizing the Earth Day events with educational booths and activities.

Community members will learn about ways to be earth friendly and have a chance to plant trees, shrubs and flowers in the Arboretum, said Wilson. Well also have educational booths about bees, pollinators, composting, planting how-tos and water protection.

Visitors are encouraged to bring a shovel and gloves to take part in planting trees, flowers and shrubs around the Arboretum. Freddys Iron Smoked BBQ food truck will also be onsite for refreshments.

For more information about the Kite Festival please contact the Department of Global Languages and Theatre Arts at 270-809-4522. For information about the Earth Day Celebration please contact the Murray State Arboretum at 270-809-3841.
Lost careers. Broken marriages. Dismissed and disbelieved by family and friends.

These are some of the emotional and financial struggles long covid patients face years after their infection. Physically, they are debilitated and in pain: unable to walk up the stairs, focus on a project, or hold down a job. Facing the end of the federal public health emergency in May, many people experiencing lingering effects of the virus say they feel angry and abandoned by policymakers eager to move on.

Patients are losing hope, said Shelby Hedgecock, a self-described long covid survivor from Knoxville, Tennessee, who now advocates for patients like herself. We feel swept under the rug.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated in March that 6% of U.S. adults, or about 16 million, were experiencing long covid, or ongoing health problems that continue or emerge after a bout of covid-19. Researchers estimate that 1.6% of U.S. adults, or about 4 million, have symptoms that have significantly reduced their ability to carry out day-to-day activities.

While patients are no longer contagious, their health issues can stretch on and affect almost every system in the body. More than 200 symptoms and conditions, including fatigue and depression, are linked to long covid, said Linda Geng, a physician who treats patients at Stanford Medicines Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome Clinic.

The severity and duration of long covid vary. Some people recover in a few weeks, while a smaller number have debilitating and lingering health issues. There is currently no test, treatment, or cure. Theres not even an accepted medical definition.

When you dont have any tests that show that anythings abnormal, it can be quite invalidating and anxiety-provoking, Geng said.

The physical and emotional toll has left some feeling hopeless. A 2022 study of adults in Japan and Sweden found that those with post-covid conditions were more than twice as likely to develop mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress, as people without them.

One of my friends committed suicide in May of 2021, Hedgecock said. She had a mild covid infection, and she progressively had medical complications continuously pop up, and it just got so bad that she decided to end her life.

In Los Angeles County, 46% of adults who contracted covid were fully recovered a month later, but the rest  a majority  reported one or more continuing symptoms, according to a 675-patient study by the University of Southern Californias COVID-19 Pandemic Research Center. The researchers found chronic fatigue topped the list of health issues, followed by brain fog and persistent cough, all of which affect peoples daily lives.

Among the respondents who identified as living with long covid, 77% said their condition limited daily activities such as going to school or work or socializing. One-quarter reported experiencing severe limitations.

Taking antivirals cuts the risk of developing long covid in people who are newly infected. But for people already suffering, medical science is trying to catch up.

Heres a look at Hedgecock and two other patients who have had long covid for years.

A Debilitating Brain Injury

Before contracting covid during spring 2020, Hedgecocks life revolved around fitness. She worked as a personal trainer in Los Angeles and competed in endurance competitions on the weekends. At 29, she was about to launch an online wellness business, then she started having trouble breathing.

One of the scariest things that happened to me was I couldnt breathe at night, Hedgecock said. I did go to the emergency room on three different occasions, and each time I was told, Youre up and youre moving. Youre young; youre healthy. Its going to be fine.

Her primary care physician at the time told her she didnt need supplemental oxygen even though her oxygen saturation dipped below normal at night, leaving her gasping for breath and crying in frustration.

Her condition kept her from one of her favorite hobbies, reading, for 19 months.

I couldnt look at a page and tell you what it said. It was like there was a disconnect between the words and my brain, she said. It was the strangest, most discouraging thing ever.

Months later, under the direction of a specialist, Hedgecock underwent a test measuring electrical activity in the brain. It revealed her brain had been starved of oxygen for months, damaging the section controlling memory and language.

Since then, she has moved back to Tennessee to be close to family. She doesnt leave her apartment without a medical alert button that can instantly call an ambulance. She works with a team of specialists, and she feels lucky; she knows people in online long covid groups who are losing health coverage as Medicaid pandemic protections expire, while others remain unable to work.

A lot of them have lost their life savings. Some are experiencing homelessness, she said.

In Bed for a Year

Julia Landis led a fulfilling life as a therapist before she contracted covid in spring 2020.

I was really able to help people and it was great work and I loved my life, and Ive lost it, said the 56-year-old, who lives with her husband and dog in Ukiah, California.

In 2020, Landis was living in an apartment in Phoenix and received treatment via telehealth for her covid-related bronchitis. What started out as a mild case of covid spiraled into severe depression.

I just stayed in bed for about a year, she said.

Her depression has continued, along with debilitating pain and anxiety. To make up for her lost income, Landis husband works longer hours, which in turn exacerbates her loneliness.

It would be nice to be living somewhere where there were people around seven days a week so I wouldnt have to go through days of being just terrified to be alone all day, Landis said. If this were cancer, Id be living with family. Im sure of it.

Landis refers to herself as a professional patient, filling her days with physical therapy and medical appointments. Shes gradually improving and can socialize on occasion, though it leaves her exhausted and can take days to recover.

Its terrifying because theres just no way of knowing if this is going to be for the rest of my existence, she said.

I Felt Betrayed

Linda Rosenthal, a 65-year-old retired high school paraprofessional, has long covid symptoms, including inflammation in her chest that makes breathing difficult. She has found it hard to get medical care.

She called and set up a treatment plan with a local cardiologist near her home in Orange County, California, but received a letter five days later telling her he would no longer be able to provide her medical services. The letter gave no reason for the cancellation.

I was so surprised, she said. And then I felt betrayed because it is terrible to get a letter where a doctor, although within their rights, says that they dont want you for a patient anymore, because it causes self-doubt.

Rosenthal found another cardiologist willing to do telehealth visits and who has staff wear masks in the office even though the state rule has expired. The practice, however, is more than an hours drive from where she lives.

NEED HELP?

If you or someone you know is in a crisis, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741.

This article is part of a partnership that includes LAist, NPR, and KFF Health News.

This article was produced by KFF Health News, which publishes California Healthline, an editorially independent service of the California Health Care Foundation.

KFF Health News is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs at KFFan independent source of health policy research, polling, and journalism. Learn more about KFF.

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Suzette Zuena is her own best advertisement for weight loss.

Zuena, the founder/visionary of LH Spa & Rejuvenation in Livingston and Madison, New Jersey, has dropped 30 pounds. Her husband has lost 42 pounds.

We go out a lot, Zuena said of the pairs social routine. People saw us basically shrinking. They would ask how the couple did it. Her response: Point people to her spa and a relatively new type of medication  GLP-1 agonists, a class of drug thats become a weight loss phenomenon.

But shes not just spreading her message in person. Shes also doing it on Instagram. And shes not alone. A chorus of voices is singing these drugs praises. Last summer, investment bank Morgan Stanley found mentions of one of these drugs on TikTok had tripled. People are streaming into doctors office to inquire about what theyve heard are miracle drugs.

What these patients have heard, doctors said, is nonstop hype, even misinformation, from social media influencers. Ill catch people asking for the skinny pen, the weight loss shot, or Ozempic, said Priya Jaisinghani, an endocrinologist and clinical assistant professor at New York Universitys Grossman School of Medicine.

Competition to claim a market that could be worth $100 billion a year for drugmakers alone has triggered a wave of advertising that has provoked the concern of regulators and doctors worldwide. But their tools for curbing the ads that go too far are limited  especially when it comes to social media. Regulatory systems are most interested in pharmas claims, not necessarily those of doctors or their enthused patients.

Few drugs of this type are approved by the FDA for weight loss  they include Novo Nordisks Wegovy. But after shortages made that treatment harder to get, patients turned to other pharmaceuticals  like Novo Nordisks Ozempic and Eli Lillys Mounjaro  that are approved only for Type 2 diabetes. Those are often used off-label  though you wouldnt hear that from many of their online boosters.

The drugs have shown promising clinical results, Jaisinghani and her peers emphasize. Patients can lose as much as 15% of their body weight. Novo Nordisk is sponsoring research to examine whether Wegovy causes reductions in the rate of heart attacks for patients with obesity.

The medications, though, come at a high price. Wegovy runs patients paying cash at least $1,305 a month in the Washington, D.C., area, according to a GoodRx search in late March. Insurers only sometimes cover the cost. And patients typically regain much of their lost weight after they stop taking it.

Hype Is Driving Demand

But patients are not necessarily coming to doctors offices now because of the science. They are citing things they saw on TikTok, like Chelsea Handler and other celebrities talking about their injections. It leads to the questions how come she can get it and why can I not, said Juliana Simonetti, a physician and co-director of the comprehensive weight management program at the University of Utah.

The excitement  which doctors worry may cause some patients to use medications inappropriately  is coming also from business interests. Some are doctors promoting their venture-capital-backed startups. Others are spas hawking everything from wrinkle-smoothing and lip-plumping to, yes, weight loss benefits of semaglutide, the active ingredient in Wegovy and Ozempic; their prices, often in the hundreds of dollars, are well below what consumers would pay if picking up the prescription at a pharmacy.

In the U.S., the FDA has oversight over ads from the pharmaceutical industry, which must acknowledge risks and side effects of drugs. But ads from people who write prescriptions dont necessarily have the same restrictions. FDA regulations apply if the prescriber is working on behalf of a regulated entity, like a pharmaceutical manufacturer or distributor.

The FDA is also committed to working with external partners, including the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), to address concerns with prescription drug marketing practices of telehealth companies on various platforms, including social media, agency spokesperson Jeremy Kahn emailed KFF Health News.

Pharma firms run campaigns to educate health care professionals or raise awareness that may indirectly tout drugs. Novo Nordisk has an ongoing internet campaign to redefine and destigmatize how Americans think of obesity  and, left unmentioned, the drugs that treat it.

KFF Health News also found that, beyond the industry groups examination, at least two other entities were promoting Novo Nordisk products in the United Kingdom.

Australian regulators have taken down nearly 1,900 ads as of early March for improperly plugging various GLP-1 agonists, an agency spokesperson told KFF Health News. Novo Nordisk says it didnt put up the ads, the majority of which were for their product Ozempic. The regulators are declining to say whos involved.

Doctors are also sounding alarms about the publicity. They believe patients will be driven to use these medications off-label, obtain unreliable forms of these drugs, or exacerbate other health conditions, like eating disorders. The drugs act in part as an appetite suppressant, which can dramatically reduce calorie intake to a concerning degree when not paired with nutritional guidance.

Elizabeth Wassenaar, a regional medical director for the Eating Recovery Center, believes the drugs and associated advertising buildup will inadvertently trigger eating disorders. KFF Health News found ads showing thin patients measuring themselves with a tape measure and stepping on the scale, with accompanying captions goading viewers into going on GLP-1s.

Theyre being marketed very, very pointedly to groups that are vulnerable to experiencing body image dissatisfaction, she said.

Remi Bader, a curve model and TikTok creator specializing in documenting her realistic clothing buys, told one podcast her story of coming off a few months on Ozempic. She said she gained twice the weight back and that her binge eating disorder got so much worse. One study, published in the journal Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, found two-thirds of lost weight came back after discontinuation of semaglutide.

But social media users and influencers  whether with white coats or ordinary patients  are hopping on every platform to spread news of positive weight loss outcomes. There are those, for instance, who had gastric bypass surgery that didnt work and are now turning to TikTok for guidance, support, and hope as they begin taking a GLP-1. Theres even a poop-centric Facebook group in which people discuss the sometimes fraught topic of the drugs effect on their bowel movements.

Commercialism and Compounding Spark Excitement and Concern

Some have been so delighted by their medication-assisted weight loss they have become brand ambassadors. Samantha Klecyngier has dropped at least 58 pounds since she started on Mounjaro. She heard of the drug and her telemedicine weight loss program, Sequence, on TikTok. She and many others who have experienced considerable weight loss since starting the medication regimen point to its positive impact and their improved quality of life. Now she officially promotes the company on the app.

Though Klecyngier, a mother of two from the Chicago area, is not diabetic, she uses Mounjaro. When she was growing up, her parents had Type 2 diabetes and other chronic diseases that led them both to have open-heart surgery. Her father lost his life to complications of diabetes. She wants to avoid that fate.

But Klecyngiers story  combining a personal journey with a profit-making entity  is symbolic of another trend on social media: commercialism. Theres a spate of startups eyeing big money matching pharmaceuticals and related support with patients. (Sequence, the company Klecyngier pitches, just got acquired by WW, also known as WeightWatchers.)

Some doctors use social media to educate viewers about the drugs. Michael Albert, chief medical officer of telehealth practice Accomplish Health, says offering information to his more than 250,000 followers has helped point patients to the medical practice. Its received thousands of patient inquiries, more than the clinic can take on.

Companies like Accomplish  startups with well-credentialed doctors  are the glossy side of this social media boom.

But there are others  like many spas and weight loss centers  that offer the drugs, sometimes without much medical support, often alongside Botox and dermal fillers. Obesity doctors worry such marketing is creating unrealistic expectations.

Some spas and telemedicine operators claim to have compounded semaglutide. But compounding  when pharmacies, rather than drug manufacturers, prepare a drug  is a risky proposition, doctors caution. The risks are enormous, Simonetti said, warning of potential contamination from poor compounding practices. The risks of getting bacteria, she warned, the risks include death.

Weight loss clinics also frequently tout unconventional additions to semaglutide, including vitamin B12 and amino acids. Some patients incorrectly believe the former helps with nausea, Jaisinghani said; other clinics tout greater weight loss.

Novo Nordisk spokesperson Allison Schneider told KFF Health News in an email that the company shares doctors concerns about compounding and that its begun sending letters warning certain Health Care Providers about the related risks.

Some operations defend their use of often-cheaper compounded drugs. LH Spa & Rejuvenation, founded by Zuena, offers a compounded semaglutide formulation from QRx Weight Loss for $500 over four weeks. The spa learned about the regimen from a doctor. Im purchasing it, Zuena said. It comes next-day air in legitimate vials with lot numbers, expirations. Patients injections and dosages are overseen by on-site medical staff.

Most operators in this burgeoning industry are keen to emphasize their products high quality or their companys good works, as they seek money. Ro, a telehealth firm offering GLP-1s, said its marketing campaign in the New York City subway aims to start an important, sometimes difficult, conversation focused on de-stigmatizing obesity as a condition.

This widespread tactic is nothing short of maddening for pharma industry critics. They talk about trying to destigmatize obesity at the same time theyre talking about losing weight. Theyre co-opting the concept, said Judy Butler, a research fellow at PharmedOut, a Georgetown University Medical Center project focusing on evidence-based practices for drugs. Theyre trying to sell a weight loss drug.

KFF Health News is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs at KFFan independent source of health policy research, polling, and journalism. Learn more about KFF.

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This story can be republished for free (details).
WAPELLO  The Louisa County Board of Supervisors agreed during its regular weekly meeting Tuesday to fast-track the rezoning of nine property parcels from A-1 to B-1.

The board approved the changes following a public hearing that drew no comments and then agreed to waive the final two readings of a resolution amending the countys planning and zoning maps to reflect the new classifications.

The countys planning and zoning commission had initially approved a rezoning recommendation for the parcels, which include four pieces near the U.S. Highway 61 and Iowa Highway 78 intersection east of Morning Sun and five areas just west of Wapello, during its March 7 meeting.

Commission members explained at that time they were recommending the change to the supervisors in a proactive action aimed at taking advantage of the planned U.S. Highway 61 relocation.

The commissioners also pointed to the updated Louisa County Comprehensive Plan 2040 for its guidance in selecting the rezoned parcels. That plan, which was completed last year, identified the highway relocation as a key business development opportunity and included rezoning as an important contributor to those opportunities.

In other action during the supervisors meeting, public health administrator Roxanne Smith and County Engineer Adam Shutt presented their regular department updates to the board.

In her monthly report, Smith reminded the supervisors the Louisa County Board of Health would meet later in the day and would cover the same issues.

Smith said she had been busy completing regular grant renewal requests and finishing up a quarterly program report, provided a childrens vaccine program update and summarized audit reports the public health staff was completing.

Smith also said she and her staff were continuing to work on Medicare/Medicaid reimbursement processes, reporting and analyses.

Supervisor Brad Quigley questioned Smith on possible ideas she could provide to help local residents who might need meal assistance. Smith suggested the two meet to discuss the issue.

She also reported both her departments nursing and aide staffs were at full strength and were taking referrals for home health, homemaker and other assistance.

In his report, Shutt reported the secondary roads crew was continuing to wash and clean bridges, blading and other maintenance work. Shutt said he had distributed the approved plans for the Grandview Bypass work and would be waiting for bids to be returned.

Shutt also reported a bridge on County Road H22 had been inspected and remained off-limits for participation in the states new overweight permit program. Shutt said the bridge was built in 1959 and was not designed for the heavier 90,000-pound loads allowed under the new state permits.

Shutt had previously reported receiving calls about opening H22 to the heavier loads but had declined because of the bridges condition. He indicated the latest inspection confirmed that decision.

As part of his report, the board also approved an application from Eastern Iowa Light and Power to bore across County Road G36 in Union Township.

The supervisors also approved the county auditor and recorders third-quarter office reports.

Louisa County Emergency Management Services Director Brian Hall also distributed a flood forecast for the county, showing a 95% chance of moderate long-range flood risk this year.

In a flyer he distributed to the supervisors, Hall urged residents to stay updated on river levels and to register at https://homelandsecurityu.iowa.gov/alert-iowa/ to receive emergency notifications.
The team at Muscatine Power and Water are ready to begin its next step toward providing speedy internet, cable and other services to more of Muscatine County.

From 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 3, MPW will hold a groundbreaking ceremony for its fiber extension project at the HON Geneva parking lot, 2900 Iowa Highway 22, currently where MPWs services end. This groundbreaking will serve as a celebration for the projects long-awaited start and will include refreshments as well as demonstrations of MPW services.

Through this expansion, it is expected that over 200 Muscatine County homes will have access to MPW internet, TV and phone services within the next year, with many of these homes being ones that have requested services from MPW for years.

Were going to be adding all the neighborhoods along Highway 22 almost to Fairport, Mitch Zytnowski, manager of marketing and sales for MPW, explained. Up until this point, they havent been served by the fiber network. So were going to be bringing our high-speed gigabit internet into those communities, and were excited about that.

The fiber expansion project was partially funded by the states Empower Rural Iowa Broadband Grant program, with MPW first receiving the grant in 2021. Without this grant, Zytnowski emphasized that it would not have been possible for MPW to build the infrastructure required for these expanded services.

Its really satisfying to know that were finally at this point, and as with anything that involves government grants, its a little more time-consuming than if you had just decided to build it, he continued. Along with Highway 22, there are also going to be a few more extensions that are not part of the grant program but are close enough and adjacent enough to our existing network that we can add them.

These other expansion locations include Old Highway 61, Musquota Drive, Keener Street and Townsend Circle.

Were getting started on those areas right away, and as soon as our mainline crew is finished there, theyre going to move onto the Highway 22 project, Zytnowski said.

Zytnowski estimated the project would take about a year to complete. Depending on where their home is located, however, certain groups that are closer to Geneva Hills Road will receive their services sooner rather than later as customers will be hooked up as the project moves east.

Although homeowners within the Highway 22 expansion area as well as the public in general are invited to this groundbreaking ceremony and to share their questions about the fiber project with MPW representatives, it is requested that those interested in attending RSVP either by phone (563-263-2631) or by email (rsvp@mpw.org) before Wednesday, April 26.
Iowa City Police are seeking the public's help in locating Cristian Martinez, 20, of Muscatine.

Martinez was reported missing to police on Saturday, April 15. Martinez was last seen in the alley behind Bardot Iowa, 347 S. Gilbert St., around 1 a.m. Saturday. Martinez' phone died earlier in the evening, and his loved ones have been unable to reach him.

Anyone with information on Martinez's whereabouts is asked to contact police at 319-356-5275.
Two Iowa teenagers have admitted helping ambush and kill their high school Spanish teacher. Willard Miller and Jeremy Goodale both pleaded guilty on Tuesday to first degree murder. Prosecutors say the teens attacked 66-year-old Nohema Graber with a baseball bat in a park while she was taking her regular after-school walk. Prosecutors say the pair was motivated by a bad grade she'd given Miller. They were 16 years old at the time. Prosecutors say the evidence shows both teens struck Graber with a bat. Miller admits carrying out the attack, but denies hitting Graber. Goodale says Miller initiated the plan and they both struck the teacher.
Southwest Airlines says planes are taking off again after departures were held up because of what the airline calls an intermittent technical problem. The Federal Aviation Administration said Tuesday that Southwest requested that the agency pause the airline's flights. The ground stop was brief, but it caused nearly half of all Southwest flights to be delayed. Southwest says a firewall supplied by a vendor went down early Tuesday, and the connection to some operational data was lost. The airline went on Twitter to apologize to travelers whose flights were delayed.
A grand jury has voted not to indict eight Ohio police officers who fired 94 rounds at Jayland Walker after a car and foot chase that ended in the 25-year-old Black man being shot to death last summer. Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost announced the decision Monday. Walkers death in June sparked protests in Akron after police released body camera footage showing officers firing from multiple directions after Walker jumped out of his moving car. Police say Walker fled an attempted traffic stop for minor equipment and traffic violations and fired a shot during the chase. Walker was shot 40 times. The NAACP and an attorney for Walkers family have called for a federal civil rights investigation.
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP)  An 84-year-old white man in Kansas City, Missouri, was charged Monday with first-degree assault for shooting a Black teen who mistakenly went to the man's home to pick up his younger brothers.

Prosecuting Attorney Zachary Thompson said at a news conference that there was a racial component Thursday night when Andrew Lester twice shot 16-year-old Ralph Yarl, who is recovering at home after being released from the hospital. But nothing in the charging documents says the shooting was racially motivated, Thompson clarified.

We understand how frustrating this has been but I can assure you the criminal justice system is working and will continue to work, Thompson said.

The shooting outraged many in Kansas City and across the country. Civic and political leaders  including President Joe Biden  demanded justice. Some, including lawyers for Yarl, pressed the racial dimension of the case.

Yarl, an honor student and all-state band member, was supposed to pick up his two younger brothers when he approached the wrong house at roughly 10 p.m. Lester came to the door and shot Yarl in the forehead  then shot him again, in the right forearm.

No words were exchanged before the shooting, the probable cause statement said. But afterward, as Yarl got up to run, he heard Lester yell, Dont come around here, the statement said.

Yarl ran to multiple homes asking for help before finding someone who would call the police, the statement said.

Rev. Vernon Howard, president of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference of Greater Kansas City, called the shooting a heinous and hate-filled crime. Vice President Kamala Harris wrote on Twitter that "No child should ever live in fear of being shot for ringing the wrong doorbell. The Missouri Senate held a moment of silence for Yarl on Monday.

The civil rights attorneys for Yarls family, Ben Crump and Lee Merritt, said in a statement that Biden called Yarls family and offered prayers for Ralphs health and for justice.

Gun violence against unarmed Black individuals must stop, the lawyers statement read. Our children should feel safe, not as though they are being hunted.

Yarls supporters plan to hold a rally Tuesday evening in Kansas City.

The assault charge carries a penalty of up to life in prison. Lester also was charged with armed criminal action, which has a penalty range of three to 15 years in prison. Lester was not charged with a hate crime. Thompson said Missouris statute is considered a lesser felony than first-degree assault, and carries a less severe penalty.

Missouri is among roughly 30 states with Stand Your Ground laws, which allow for the use of deadly force in self-defense, but the prosecutor determined the shooting was not in self defense.

An arrest warrant was issued but Lester was not yet in custody, Thompson said.

Lester told police that he lives alone and had just gone to bed when he heard his doorbell, according to the probable cause statement. He said he picked up his gun and went to the door, where he saw a Black male pulling on the exterior storm door handle and thought someone was breaking in.

A number for Lester was not in service on Monday evening and it was not immediately clear whether he had an attorney to speak on his behalf.

The shooting happened in a middle class neighborhood in north Kansas City. Yarl didn't have a phone with him and went to the wrong block, his aunt, Faith Spoonmore, wrote on a GoFundMe page set up to help pay medical bills. By Monday afternoon, $1.4 million had been raised.

Police Chief Stacey Graves said that Yarl's parents asked him to pick up his brothers at a home on 115th Terrace, but he mistakenly went to 115th Street, the Kansas City Star reported.

Yarl is a bass clarinetist who earned Missouri All-State Band honorable mention and who plays several instruments in the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra of Kansas City, Spoonmore wrote. A statement from the North Kansas City School District described Yarl as an excellent student and talented musician.

Spoonmore said Yarl is doing well physically but has a lot of trauma to overcome emotionally.

By Monday afternoon, the home where the shooting happened had been vandalized. Black spray-paint on the side of the house showed a heart with 16 in the middle. Eggs splattered the front windows and the door.

A message seeking comment from Republican Gov. Mike Parson, a staunch gun rights supporter, wasnt immediately returned.

Crump, who has represented families in several high-profile cases of Black people being shot, including those of Trayvon Martin, Michael Brown, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and George Floyd, questioned why the shooter wasn't arrested and charged immediately.

We all believe that if the roles were reversed and this was a Black citizen who shot a 16-year-old for merely ringing his doorbell, they would have arrested him, and he wouldnt have slept in his bed that night, Crump said.

Two days after Yarl was shot, a 20-year-old woman was killed by a homeowner in Upstate New York Saturday after the car she was in drove to the wrong address. Washington County Sheriff Jeffrey Murphy said Kaylin Gillis was in a car with three others looking for a friends house.

As the car was turning around, Kevin Monahan came out and fired two shots, one of which struck Gillis. Monahan was charged with second-degree murder.
The government has announced an evacuation plan for Kenyans living and working in Sudan.

There are currently around 3000 Kenyans living and working in Sudan, the Ministry of Foreign Affair said.

In a presser on Monday, April 17, Roseline Njogu, the Principal Secretary of the State Department for Diaspora Affairs said the government is currently mapping out an emergency evacuation plan for Kenyan citizens living in Sudan.

Right now there is so far no casualty reported. However, if Kenyan citizens living in Sudan are in danger or unable to continue their peaceful existence ideally we will call for evacuation. We are committed to ensuring that all Kenyans are safely rescued and brought home should the situation warrant it, Ms Njogu said.

The PS said the State Department for Diaspora Affairs has set up a multi-agency technical team that is closely monitoring the situation in Sudan on a real-time basis.

The department has also called on Kenyans in Sudan to remain indoors and to contact the Kenyan embassy in Khartoum through the emergency number +249900194854 or via various social media channels.
A police officer who allegedly shot himself in unclear circumstances on Sunday night has been identified as the father of one of the victims of food poisoning at Sacred Heart Mukumu Girls in Kakamega County.

Police Constable Maurice Tilison Chisihavi, attached to Siala Kaduol Police Station in Gem, Siaya County, was on duty when he shot himself dead in his house at the police post.

Confirming the incident, Gem Sub County Police Commander Cecilia Kemboi said: He shot himself in the chin and the bullet exited on the upper part of the head, killing him instantly.

He is a teetotaler and we suspect he could only kill himself if he was distressed, Kemboi added.

Kemboi noted that the food poisoning incident at his daughters school had affected him.

His daughter is one of the victims of the Mukumu Girls High School food poisoning incident. This had greatly affected him in the last few days, Kemboi was quoted as saying by the Star.

The officers daughter has since been discharged from hospital and is recuperating at home.

Police said investigations are ongoing to establish why the officer took his life.
By PCS

President William Ruto has lauded development partners for their contribution to Kenyas public health.

He said close and strong collaboration with them has enabled Kenya to defeat diseases such as Malaria, HIV/Aids and Tuberculosis.

In particular, he pointed out the Global Fund for its engagements that have furthered the realization of the Universal Health Coverage(UHC).

In the past two decades, the President went on, the Fund has invested more than Sh225 Billion in Kenya.

Our partnerships have been remarkable; they have facilitated high-impact strategic health programmes in the country.

He was speaking at State House in Nairobi where he flagged off more than 20,000 medical oxygen cylinders to the 47 Counties.

The Global Chief Executive Officer of Amref Health Africa Githinji Gitahi noted that the cylinders will serve at least 320 medical care facilities.

The President said the Governments commitment goes beyond the traditional delivery of health services as a public good.

We are intervening radically to make the healthcare inclusive, accessible, affordable and of high quality.

Even with resource constraints, the President explained that a new funding plan has been opened up to accommodate more partners.

More than 20 Governors were present.

Council of Governors Chairperson Anne Waiguru said Counties are pursuing strategic interventions that will make healthcare affordable.

We commit to providing quality healthcare to every Kenyan across the country, she said.
Seven people were Sunday night rescued from a suspected religious cult led by controversial preacher Paul Mackenzie Nthenge of the Good News International Church.

Adu Ward Member of County Assembly (MCA) Samason Zia Kahindi led the rescue efforts in Shakahola village in Malindi, Kilifi County and drove the seven to the Malindi Police station.

This brings the total of those who have been rescued to 18, while four others reportedly starved to death on April 14. 11 others were hospitalised.

In the cult-like religion, pastor Mackenzie reportedly encourages his congregants to fast to death in order to make it to heaven and see God.

RELATED  Malindi Pastor in Court After Congregant Starved Her Two Children to Please God

Last month, Mackenzie was released on Sh10,000 bail over his alleged involvement in the death of two children who were starved by their parents.

He was rearrested on Friday, April 14, with police seeking more time from the court to detain him to enable them complete investigations.

A homicide team from Nairobi alongside government pathologists has since been deployed to Malindi to collect more evidence and exhume the bodies of the two minors as ordered by a Malindi court two weeks ago.

The court on Monday allowed the police to hold Paul Nthenge Makenzi for 14 more days to allow investigators to complete investigations.

Sergeant Joseph Yator, in a miscellaneous application, had requested the court to allow the police to hold Pastor Makenzie for 30 days.

The preacher will be held in custody alongside six of his followers while the seven of the rescued members will be held for seven days as they undergo counselling.

Chief Magistrate Elizabeth Usui also canceled the Sh10,000 police bond granted to Makenzie last month.

She said a request by one of the victims to be released to go and continue with his prayers and fasting was evident enough that such activities were still going on in the area and that releasing the suspects could lead to witness interference.

The preachers followers are expected to face charges of attempted suicide.
Tuesday, April 11

0852  Someone dropped off ammunition for disposal.

1056  Medical aid on San Juan Court.

1337  Police cited a driver near Madrona/Main.

1401  Police issued a parking citation near Adams/Money.

1656  Police took a report following a disturbance on Riesling Way.

1931  A caller was concerned about a fire on a hillside. Cal Fire confirmed that controlled burns were permitted.

1946  An officer helped a driver with a dead battery on Crane Avenue.

2046  Report of a suspicious man sitting in a car on Allyn Avenue for 10-15 minutes.

Wednesday, April 12

0020  Report of a suspicious occupied truck parked on Kidd Ranch Road. Police contacted a young woman who was eating with one of her friends.

0852  Someone came to the police station to drop off ammunition for disposal.

1056  Medical aid on San Juan Court.

1337  Police cited a driver near Madrona/Main.

1401  Police issued a parking citation near Adams/Money.

1600  A caller reported being attacked, but not bitten, by a loose pit bull on Monte Vista. Police determined it was a civil matter.

1656  Report of a disturbance on Riesling Way. Police responded and took a report.

1757  Report of brown tap water on Main Street. Police contacted Public Works.

2029  Caltrans was paving all lanes of Highway 29 between Pope Street and Charter Oak Avenue. Traffic was detoured to Charter Oak/Allison/Pope. Highway 29 was expected to reopen at 6 a.m. Thursday, April 13.

Thursday, April 13

0841  Report of painters blocking the sidewalk near Main/Adams. Police determined they had an encroachment permit for the street and the sidewalk.

0855  Report of a big box truck trying to cross the Pope Street Bridge. It was gone when police arrived.

1043  Police arrested someone after a traffic stop near Spring/Valley View.

1713  Report of popping noises, possibly fireworks, originating near the high school.

1801  Report of a leaky fire hydrant on Sulphur Springs Avenue.

2315  Report of a domestic disturbance on Main Street. Police determined the dispute was verbal and not physical.

Friday, April 14

0652  A van reportedly crashed into a large flatbed trailer that had been parked near Dowdell/La Fata for several days. Police took a report.

0845  Police cited a driver on Main Street.

0936  Report of a hazardous situation near Spring/Hudson, with a tree company blocking a lane of traffic without any warning signs for drivers.

1201  A large container of ammunition was turned over to the police for disposal.

1328  Report of a suspicious situation near Main/Grayson. A man reportedly got out of a car in the middle of the street and started running with his mouth open.

1449  Police cited a driver near Main/Grayson.

1525  Police cited a driver near Main/Spring.

1540  Police cited a driver near Main/Pope.

1605  Police cited a driver near Main/Charter Oak.

1847  Police checked on a man lying on the curb in an industrial area. He was waiting for friends to pick him up from Vallejo.

1904  Police arrested someone for driving without a license near Vidovich/Main. The vehicle was towed.

2100  Report of two suspicious vehicles parked on McCormick Street, with people inside who appeared to be up to no good. They left heading south on Highway 29. The caller asked for extra patrol.

Saturday, April 15

0158  Following a traffic stop near Crinella/Main, police arrested a 33-yea-rold Napa man for outstanding bench warrants.

0205  Report of someone honking their horn while repeatedly driving through the Starr Avenue neighborhood.

0448  Medical aid on Main Street.

0806  Public Works reported vandalism to the public bathrooms in the city parking lot near Money Way.

0917  Napa sheriffs deputies found two stolen license plates that had been reported stolen from St. Helena.

1008  Police cited a driver near Main/Dowdell.

1330  Police cited a driver near Church/Pope.

1349  Police cited a driver on Main Street.

1555  Police cited a driver near Charter Oak/Main.

1641  A Spring Street property owner asked police to stand by while they talked to a person whod been trespassing on their property. Officers responded and admonished the trespasser.

1906  Report of a golden retriever wandering around near Main/Adams. She was reunited her owner after a short stay at the city kennel.

1918  Report of a very aggressive and intoxicated woman with an unleashed dog on Tainter Street.

1951  Calistoga police asked for help responding to a domestic violence incident in Calistoga.

2119  A man in a white Honda reportedly hit a moving car while flipping a U-turn near Main/Pope to chase after his girlfriend, whod left the car and was walking on the sidewalk. He got out of the car and took off after his girlfriend, but both vehicles were still on the scene. When he got to her, he reportedly grabbed her hair, choked her, and bit her in the face. Police arrested the 42-year-old Citrus Heights man on suspicion of felony domestic violence, providing false identification to an officer, and two felony warrants from Sacramento County.

2255  A bouncer at a Main Street bar was reportedly attacked by a man. The bouncer had confronted the man after the mans baggy pants accidentally fell down while he was dancing. The man attacked the bouncer with a standing sign, hit him with his fists, and also attacked a bartender. Police arrested the 41-year-old Zephyr Cove, Nevada man on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon. He was cited and released with a signed promise to appear in court. One officer was driving another suspect to jail in connection with the previous call, so there was only one officer left to deal with the bar incident. Neighboring agencies were called in to help.

2312  Report of a possible drunk driver near Main/Vidovich.

Sunday, April 16

0811  Police were told to be on the lookout for a construction truck that had been speeding in Calistoga.

0827  Report of construction noise at a house on Laguna Seca Court. An officer contacted the residents and determined there was no construction noise.

0915  Public Works was called in to remove a dead raccoon from the elementary school playground.

0919  A toddler on Birch Street accidentally called 911. Police made sure there was no emergency.

1305  A loose pit bull reportedly got into a fight with a leashed dog near Library/Adams. The caller said the pit bulls owner usually shows up to restrain the dog, but that didnt happen this time. The caller was concerned that the pit bull might attack another dog.

1524  Police warned a driver about wearing headphones while driving.

1546  Police cited a driver for failing to yield to a pedestrian at a Main Street crosswalk.

1611  Police cited another driver for failing to yield to a pedestrian at a Main Street crosswalk

1624  Police cited a driver for failing to yield to a pedestrian in a crosswalk at Main/Mitchell.

1837  A dog jumped over a fence and got stuck in a pit on Saint James Drive.

2145  Report of a possible drunk driver speeding away from a Charter Oak Avenue restaurant in a silver Mustang convertible. Police learned that the man had also threatened an employee at the restaurant, instigated a physical altercation, and took the employees cell phone. Police stopped the car and arrested the 41-year-old Dallas, Texas man on suspicion of assault and battery, petty theft and making criminal threats.

Monday, April 17

1209  Report of a reckless driver in a truck full of juveniles near Crane/Grayson. The caller said the truck ran a stop sign and almost lost control at high speed.

1313  A man got a phone call from someone falsely claiming to have kidnapped his 24-year-old daughter and threatening to kill her unless the father paid him. The father called police during the conversation, so dispatch could hear the suspect on the other end of the call. After the suspect hung up, the man called his daughter. She was OK. The phone call had just been a scam.

1801  A distressed caller said he was being chased by cars near Library Lane. He seemed to be having a mild panic attack. Officers responded to make sure everything was OK.

1819  Report of a loose dog on Pope Street.

2207  Lift assist on Del Campo Court.

2254  A caller near Library Lane asked for help finding his car.

PHOTOS: Training for an active shooter situation in St.Helena
Wildfires have been a reality for generations across California. As the intensity, duration, and impacts of wildfires have increased  damaging and destroying millions of acres across our state  so too have federal, state and local resources dedicated to wildfire preparedness and mitigation.

Since 2007, the nonprofit Napa Communities Firewise Foundation, also known as Napa Firewise, has been reducing the risk and impacts of destructive wildfires throughout Napa County via hazardous fuel reduction and community education.

Napa Firewise relies on the participation of residents and permission of private property owners to complete life-saving hazardous fuel reduction projects. With support from 20 neighborhood Fire Safe Councils, and local, state, and federal grants, Napa Firewise has developed effective and affordable programs to assist residents with completing defensible space, ignition resistant construction, and wildfire preparedness in coordination with our local fire agencies and the Napa County Board of Supervisors.

The Vegetation Management Program is deploying grants and donations to remove or modify vegetation in strategic locations to reduce the potential for wildfire ignition, rates of fire spread, flame lengths, and fire severity, while protecting the environment and improving forest health.

Making roads safer during wildfires is a priority. To be effective, vegetation must be treated at least 30 feet off the shoulder on both sides of the road, according to fire experts. Expanding hazardous wildfire fuels reduction treatments onto private property beyond the 10-foot roadside right-of-way improves overall visibility, emergency response capability and resident evacuation.

Other key wildfire safety projects include creating and maintaining shaded fuel break buffers around residential communities in the Wildland Urban Interface, strategic ridgetop fire breaks, and measures for critical infrastructure and wildland ecosystems protection.

Property owners are required to sign a Landowner Access Agreement with Napa Firewise to take advantage of this largely Cal Fire and Napa County grant-funded work. Napa Firewise employs local landowner liaisons with wildfire expertise to explain project details and answer questions throughout project design and implementation.

We work with hundreds of residents, seeking their permission to treat hazardous vegetation on their property to create shaded fuel breaks and expand the roadside safety buffer beyond the public right of way with grant funds, said Napa Firewise Executive Director Gretchen Hayes. Our staff considers their own experience driving along Napa County roads engulfed in flames when prioritizing and designing roadside hazardous fuel reduction projects to make routes safer for residents to escape and for firefighters to respond to wildfires.

Napa Firewise is seeking permissions from landowners along the following roads: Atlas Peak, Redwood, Dry Creek, Mount Veeder, Lokoya, Oakville Grade, Wall, Whitehall, and White Sulphur Springs, so that work can be completed by June in accordance with the grant terms.

This work extends the mitigation completed in 2023 on Spring Mountain, Langtry, Sanitarium, and Deer Park roads.

In 2022, Napa Firewise spent nearly $10 million to complete 45 hazardous vegetation reduction projects to protect life and property by treating approximately 300 acres in strategic locations and along 45 miles of County routes in high fire threat areas, such as Howell Mountain, Monticello, Atlas Peak, Soda Canyon, Diamond Mountain, and Old Lawley Toll roads.

Hazardous fuels mitigation project costs range between $3,000 and $12,000 per acre based on the treatment prescription, density and type of vegetation, topography, and other site conditions, according to Mike Wilson, Napa Firewise Vegetation Management Program Director since February 2022, who worked for Cal Fire Napa County Fire Department from 1987 to 2020 and helped start Napa Firewise and the County Chipping Program in 2004.

Wilson was working as a Public Safety Specialist for PG&E in 2020 when the LNU Complex and Glass fires together burned more than 430,000 acres across five counties, destroyed or damaged more than 3,250 structures, and took the lives of six people. Thousands of residents were evacuated, and many were displaced for extended periods of time.

Wildfire needs three components to easily spread: fuel, weather (heat/wind), and topography (slope). We can only alter the combustible fuels and vegetation, Wilson said. It was during the 2020 firestorms that I, and many others, knew that we as a community had to drastically reduce hazardous fuel loads throughout Napa County in order to live with future wildfires.

Additional upcoming projects include the Berryessa Highlands and Estates, Circle Oaks, Gordon Valley, Bothe Park, Silverado and Angwin areas. Work also is under way with the Napa County Public Works Department to clean up storm-damaged vegetation that could threaten evacuation routes, according to Wilson.

Vegetation treatments require repeat attention and refinement to maintain fire risk reduction goals. Ongoing annual vegetation maintenance entails activating the countys chipping program, and maintaining treatment areas while discouraging new, non-native invasive plant growth. Vegetation mitigation measures used to remain effective for three to five years. However, recent storm, drought, and beetle infestation impacts as well as regrowth have required retreatment of areas every other year, Wilson emphasized.

Photos: Napa County's new fire reality California Wildfires California Wildfires California Wildfires Atlas Fire Atlas fire Atlas Fire Atlas Fire Atlas Fire California Wildfires California-Wildfires Western Wildfires Western Wildfires California Wildfires California Wildfires California Wildfires California Wildfires APTOPIX California Wildfires California Wildfires APTOPIX California Wildfires California Wildfires Nuns fire Nuns fire Nuns Fire Oakville during the Nuns Fire Carneros Fire Damage Power shutdown Smoke Tourism Tubbs Fire Tubbs Fire Upvalley Fire Scenes California Wildfire Cause California Wildfire Cause
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Armenia FM, Russia deputy FM discuss regional security issues

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General Singh Rana: India and Iran are working to expand military cooperation

Armenia ombudsperson draws US ambassador's attention to urgency of protecting rights of people living in Karabakh

Gegharkunik provincial governor: Information about closing of Armenias Sotk gold mine is not true

NATO Secretary General calls on Georgia to redouble reform efforts

Entry of humanitarian goods from Armenia to Artsakh has been somewhat restored

Sputnik Armenia: Russian peacekeeping force in Karabakh has new commander

Rasmussen: There must be political and economic consequences for Azerbaijan

State minister: Humanitarian goods, fuel imports to Karabakh completely disrupted

Foreign Minister of Iceland: Free movement through the Lachin corridor must be restored

Biden and Harris have started raising campaign donations

Thomas de Waal: There will be new conflict between Karabakh and Azerbaijan

digiPOS digital terminal from Ardshinbank: cash register in your smartphone

Marukyan: US, France, Russia, EU ready to guarantee implementation of peace treaty to be signed with Azerbaijan?

Israel ambassador expresses solidarity with Armenian people

Aliyev promises Europe more Azerbaijani natural gas

Azerbaijanis put You are entering the territory of the Republic of Azerbaijan road sign near Hakari bridge

Armenia economic activity index up 12.2% in first quarter

Bob Menendez: It's time to halt security assistance to Baku

Explanation made regarding Armenia v. Azerbaijan, Azerbaijan v. Armenia court cases

Armenia opposition MP: Russia is taking steps on the spot, Azerbaijan internal troops are also there

Pelosi: Last year our delegation had solemn honor to visit Armenian Genocide Memorial

Armenia flag hoisted over Italys Reggio Calabria city hall

Biden to run in 2024 US presidential race

Karabakh MP: Negotiations to reopen Hakari bridge are in progress with Azerbaijan

CoE Commissioner for Human Rights says she tried to visit Karabakh but could not

Schiff: International observers should have been sent to Karabakh, Lachin corridor years ago

US Congress members re-introduce Armenian Genocide Education Act to House of Representatives

Adam Schiff: There should be sanctions on Azerbaijan

Armenias Pashinyan to Israels Netanyahu: Our relations have positive prerequisites for moving to new qualitative level

Chaarat Gold company discontinues talks for Lydian Armenia purchase

American Armenians march, with huge Karabakh flag, to Turkey embassy in Washington

Adam Schiff: I've never been more concerned, frankly, that there may be another major outbreak of war

Germany Bundestag human rights committee head: New Azerbaijani checkpoint contradicts international law

Loucas Fourlas visits border regions of Armenias Syunik province

Adam Schiff submits to US Congress draft resolution recognizing Karabakh independence

France FM to visit Armenia and Azerbaijan, to discuss situation in Lachin corridor

Newspaper: Pashinyan-Putin telephone conversation result being awaited

Karabakh ombudsman: Azerbaijan takes blatantly brazen step that directly contradicts tripartite statement

Kamala Harris on Armenian Genocide: Let us never forget, let us rededicate ourselves to speaking out against hate

Bruno Retailleau: Azerbaijani checkpoint installation on Hakari bridge could be beginning of new large-scale operation

Canada FM issues message on Armenian Genocide 108th anniversary

The struggle for international recognition of this horrific crime continues. President of Cyprus

U.S. Ambassador to the OSCE: The United States is deeply concerned about Azerbaijan's actions

Valerie Boyer: Turkey has started a new war of aggression in Armenia and Artsakh

The Second President of Armenia visited Tsitsernakaberd Memorial Complex with his wife and son

Azerbaijan's decision to set up checkpoints in the Lachin corridor contradicts EUs call to reduce tensions

Russian Defense Ministry noted Azerbaijan's unilateral and uncoordinated actions

Foreign Minister of Artsakh Meets with Head of the Republicans Group of the French Senate

France commemorates 108th Anniversary of 1915 Armenian Genocide: Macron

Commemoration ceremony was held in Amsterdam near the monument dedicated to the victims of the Armenian Genocide

PACE Rapporteur wants to visit Lachin corridor

Trudeau on Armenian Genocide Memorial Day: Canada will continue to promote peace and justice

Greece PM on Armenian Genocide: We are against any act that incites discrimination, violence against humanity

European People's Party on Armenian Genocide: We urge Turkey to acknowledge reality of past

Italy MP: International organizations access to Karabakh for humanitarian aid should be facilitated

PACE pays tribute to Armenian Genocide victims with minute of silence (VIDEO)

Representation at ECtHR: Armenia will apply to International Court of Justice regarding Lachin checkpoint matter

Yeghishe Kirakosyan: Armenia will apply to International Court of Justice regarding Lachin checkpoint issue

Levon Aronian: Message of remembering and demanding must be directed towards ourselves

Biden: We renew our pledge to never forget Armenian Genocide

Armenian Genocide commemoration event held in Istanbul

Russia ambassador, embassy military attache lay flowers at Armenian Genocide Memorial in Yerevan (PHOTOS)

Peskov on setting up Azerbaijani checkpoint at Lachin corridor: Situation not easy, requires extra effort

Greece president: We honor Armenian Genocide victims memory

Russia calls on Armenia, Azerbaijan to immediately return to existing agreements

Armenian Genocide victims honored at PACE chamber courtyard (PHOTOS)

Bruno Retailleau on Armenian Genocide victims: They are our victims also

Artsakh MFA: Armenian people are again facing threat of new Genocide

France senator: We should help Armenia arm itself

Karabakh president: Today more than ever we need to turn words into action

Greece FM: Preserving Armenian Genocide victims memory is minimum duty of all humanity

Sotk gold mine of Armenia inactive for 10th day due to periodic Azerbaijani shooting

Colorado declares April 24, 2023 as Armenian Genocide remembrance day

Ambassador: France stands with Armenia to commemorate victims of 1915 Genocide (PHOTOS)

Karekin II: Azerbaijan's goal is to de-Armenianize, take over Karabakh

US Congressman Adam Schiff to introduce bill recognizing Karabakh independence, sovereignty

Karabakh MFA: Any proposal to discuss Azerbaijans illegal demands is tantamount to condoning its genocidal policy

Karabakh president pays tribute to Armenian Genocide victims

Catholicos visits Armenian Genocide Memorial in Yerevan

Armenia ex-President Sarkissian: We must be able to move forward without retreating from our identity, history

Armenia army General Staff chief: We are doing positional improvement work at Tegh village

Nathalie Loiseau: No one should approach risk of new violence against Armenians lightly 108 years after Genocide

Armenia MFA: Armenians in Karabakh are facing danger of genocide, ethnic cleansing even today

Netherlands ambassador expresses support to Armenians in the words of great poet Hovhannes Tumanyan (VIDEO)

Georgia Armenians hold torchlight procession in Tbilisi

PM Pashinyan, other state officials visit Armenian Genocide Memorial in Yerevan (PHOTOS)

Kristina Kvien: No US sanctions against Azerbaijan at the moment

MFA: France condemns setting up of Azerbaijani checkpoint at Lachin corridor, demands to reopen corridor

Karekin II: Fight for just cause of Armenians, contribute to prevention of genocidal acts and crimes

Armenia ex-President Serzh Sargsyan: Bloody scimitar which has now become Bayraktar hangs over our people again

Armenia PM: This is best moment to think about past, present, future

Armenian Genocide Memorial entrance closed

108 years later: It is Armenian Genocide victims commemoration day
The smart Automobile companya joint venture of Mercedes-Benz and Geelyhas introduced a new crossover with index #3, which is currently the largest model of the smart brand, Kolesa.ru informs.

The latest history of this brand began in 2019, when Mercedes-Benz transferred its management to the Chinese Geely holding within the framework of a joint venture. Now Geely is responsible for the engineering of this brand, and Mercedes-Benz is engaged in its design. The first model was the subcompact crossover that was introduced a year ago with the index #1, and then its sporty Brabus version was unveiled.

Today, on the eve of the opening of the Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition, the "presentation" of smart #3 took place, and its Brabus version was introduced. The appearance of smart #3 has not been a secret for a long time. In November last year, the photos of this novelty were presented by the Chinese ministry of industry. smart #3 is longer, wider, and lower than smart #1, with a length of 4,400 millimeters, width of 1,844, height of 1,556, and a wheelbase of 2,785 millimeters. These standards correspond to C-class. The aerodynamic drag coefficient cx of smart #3 is smaller than that of smart #1.

smart #3 is based on Geely's SEA modular platform. smart #3 and smart #1 are unified to the maximum extent, their power units are the same: 200 kW272 hp, the Brabus version has 315 kW428 hp. The capacity of the battery is not specified, and the range of one charge is 500-540 kilometersdepending on the modification.

The interior of smart #3 is almost the same as that of smart #1, and the only noticeable difference being the round vents instead of the oval ones. The Brabus version has an aggressive aerodynamic suspension, brake supports, and decorative red inserts on the body and interior.

The prices of smart #3 for the Chinese market have not been made public yet, and the sales date has not been specified either. In Europe, however, this matter is clearer, as the local premiere of smart #3 will take place in September at the IAA exhibition in Munich, and this novelty will appear at car dealers in the beginning of 2024.

We should add that the old model series of the smart brand has already been said goodbye to. In April, the EQ fortwo electric two-seater urban electric car stopped accepting orders, and the next one will probably be called smart #2, but respective details are not given yet.
At the initiative of the Armenian side, negotiations were held Monday in Moscow between the head of the Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance (Rosselkhoznadzor) of Russia, Sergey Dankvert, and the head of the Food Safety Inspection Body of Armenia, Armen Hayrapetyan, reports the press service of Rosselkhoznadzor.

According to the results of an inspection, an insufficient level of state monitoring over the supply of dairy products from Armenia to Russia was found. As a result, Rosselkhoznadzor had petitioned to the veterinary service of Armenia with a request to stop the supply of dairy products to Russia.

Hayrapetyan said that he carefully studied the inspection report of Rosselkhoznadzor, where a number of critical problems were revealed in monitoring the supply of dairy products from Armenia to Russia.

Deficiencies in the monitoring system have enabled Armenian companies to export products made from Iranian raw materials, which do not have a trade license with Russia. As a result, in 2022, Armenia increased vegetable oil supplies ten times. Such schemes disrupt the competitive environment not only in the Russian market, but also introduce an imbalance in the economic activity of the EAEU.

Dankvert emphasized that Russia is fully provided with dairy products which are produced in all regions of the country and exported to foreign markets, and may be interested in acquiring authentic products made exclusively from Armenian raw materials for Armenian cuisine.

In order to settle the created situation and to restore the previous level of trust between the relevant departments of Armenia and Russia, the parties agreed to carry out a phased work. Accordingly, Armenia will inspect its milk processing companies and send Rosselkhoznadzor lists of those companies that can meet the Russian requirements. In turn, Rosselkhoznadzor will inspect them and, based on the results, will make a decision about whether to enter into trade with Russia.
Any project of the future cannot be implemented without a sufficient supply of optimism. The key question is the following: in these stormy times, is there a necessary reserve of optimism in Armenia not only to talk about the future, to design it, but to build and realize that future? Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated this on Tuesday, while presenting the report on the implementation and results of the 2022 program of the 2021-2026 program of the government at the National Assembly of the Republic of Armenia (RA).

"My answer is unambiguous and unequivocal: in spite of all the difficulties and complications, there is the necessary optimism to talk about the future, plan the future, and build that future in RA; and I am sure of it.

"The news, public discussions do not give such confidence, the international situation even more does not give such confidence. But at this very moment, the construction process of around 55 thousand residences is taking place in the RA. This is about 6 percent of the housing fund ever created in Armenia, 12.6 percent of the housing fund in apartment buildings. In the history of the Third Republic [of Armenia], housing construction has never had such an amount. Today, not only the rich are buying apartments, but also the middle class, who, due to the economic policy being conducted by the [Armenian] government, got the opportunity to work, create, and see the results of their work," said the Armenian premier.

He added: "In the conditions of border instability, RA security vulnerability, collapse of the world order, tens of thousands of RA citizens are acquiring apartments, thousands of investors are building apartments. Why do they do that? In my assessment, it means and can mean one thing: people have believed in the [Armenian] government's peace agenda, they believe that there will be peace and they will have the opportunity to live and create happily in their homeland. Otherwise, it would not make sense to acquire or build an apartment. People believe in the government's slogan, 'there is a future.'

Pashinyan emphasized that the responsibility of the Armenian government has only one expression: peace, which means having normalized relations with its four neighbors.

"And since we have a task not of normalization, but of deepening relations with Georgia and Iran, then peace means normalized relations with Azerbaijan and Turkey. The question of the questions is as follows: and how realistic is it, how feasible is it? This question has two faces. First, to what extent the actions of Azerbaijan will be directed towards peace? And secondly, especially after the 44-day war [in 2020], if compromises are reached at the political-diplomatic level, to what extent will they be acceptable to the RA citizens and to what extent will the citizens allow the practical implementation of these compromisessometimes painful solutions? This is also our responsibility. And we must make the course of our thoughts and actions understandable to the RA citizens; and when they understand, they will also accept it," said Pashinyan.

He added that when people are explained what happened and what is happening around Armenia, they will understand.

"They understand us. Otherwise, we wouldn't be here," the Armenian PM said.

According to Pashinyan, peace is possible if Armenia's 29,800-square-kilometer-territory is clearly recognized in international relations and Armenia declares that it has no territorial claims from any country.
Peace means the normalization of Armenias relations with Turkey and Azerbaijan. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated this on Tuesday, during the debates on the report on the implementation and results of the 2022 program of the 2021-2026 program of the government at the special session of the National Assembly of Armenia.

According to Pashinyan, Armenia must normalize relations with its neighbors.

"I must note our exclusive accountability to the people who believe in the future of Armenia. I must note as well our accountability to all those who are suspicious of that future. And that accountability at the current historical moment can have only one manifestation: peace, which means the normalization of [Armenias] relations with all four neighbors," said the Armenian premier.

He noted that there is only a need to deepen relations with Iran and Georgia. However, according to him, the main question is different: how realistic and feasible is it to normalize relations with Turkey and Azerbaijan?

"This issue has two sides. First of all, peace is not built alone. It is important to what extent Azerbaijan's actions and policies will be aimed at peace. Secondly, especially after the 44-day war [in 2020], if compromises are reached, it is important to know to what extent they will be acceptable to the citizens of Armenia, and to what extent they will allow the painful implementation of these compromises," said Pashinyan.
Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan on Tuesday announced in the parliament that Armenia, having accepted the Madrid Principles in 2007 as the basis for the settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, has recognized Karabakh as part of Azerbaijan.

Opposition MP Artur Khachatryan asked why there is no mention of the right to self-determination of the Nagorno-Karabakh people in the section of the report on the implementation of the Armenian government's 2021-2026 program, while in the latter the right to self-determination was noted as one of the bases for the settlement of the problem.

Pashinyan responded that the whole problem is that in the respective negotiation legacy he received in 2018, there is no concept of "Nagorno-Karabakh people," but a concept of "entire population of Nagorno-Karabakh."

"These words are very important. Yes, the people are a constitutional subject according to the Helsinki Act, all other acts. The population is not a constitutional subject; that is, it is not a subject of sovereignty. And secondly, if we say self-determination, from whom and where do we self-determine? For example, why don't we say Armenia to self-determine because Armenia was self-determined by the 1991 Almaty Declaration. From whom did it self-determine? From the Soviet Union because it was a part of the Soviet Union," explained the Armenian PM.

He added that before 2007, Armenia had had a concept related to this matter.

"The concept was that Nagorno-Karabakh, like others, self-determines from the Soviet Union. And there was a theory that Nagorno-Karabakh was never part of Azerbaijan. In 2007, the Madrid principles appeared, where it was recorded that the adjustment of the status of Nagorno-Karabakh and the whole process should be agreed with Azerbaijan. Why should it be agreed with Azerbaijan if we [i.e., Armenia] do not recognize Nagorno-Karabakh as part of Azerbaijan? And we have recognized Nagorno-Karabakh as part of Azerbaijan according to the Madrid Principles. I have said that it is a problem when the content of our negotiations and the public discourse do not correspond. We have recognized, but we didn't say, and all the wars, fights were related to it," said the Armenian premier.

He added that the subject of self-determination is the one who wants to self-determine, and Nagorno-Karabakh, whereas the latter was left out of the negotiation process in 1998. According to Pashinyan, after Nagorno-Karabakh was left out of the negotiation process, the right to self-determination remained simply written in the Helsinki Final Act.

"I have an analysis and I say that if we do not face this reality, it will not work," added Pashinyan.

MP Khachatryan countered the Prime Minister, noting that the latter equates self-determination and independence, while according to the definition of the Helsinki Act, self-determination means something completely different: for example, Armenia can self-determine and decide that it no longer needs a parliamentary republic, but a theocracy. According to the lawmaker, this is the whole logic of the Helsinki Act.

PM Pashinyan responded that Azerbaijan said the same thing throughout the negotiation process.

"They also said that self-determination does not mean that there should be an independent state. They also said that the subject of this self-determination is not only the Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh, but also the Azerbaijanis, they said that the Azerbaijanis should also decide. That is why I am talking about the terminology people-population. I said in 2019 that the negotiator of the Nagorno-Karabakh issue should be the representative of the people of Nagorno-Karabakh, as the people of Nagorno-Karabakh did not vote in our parliamentary elections, therefore, I do not have a mandate [in Karabakh]," said the Armenian PM.

Also, Khachatryan asked Pashinyan what the future status of Nagorno-Karabakh is in his opinion.

Pashinyan replied: in the logic of the MP's theory on the right to self-determination, unless today's status is defined, there can be no talk of future status.
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Rabbi Jordan Braunig had a simple idea: Find a way to deepen connections at Emory by encouraging students of all backgrounds to go out for a cup of coffee.

However, in just one year, the Flourishing Fellows program has proven to be much more than sharing a cup of joe for the 16 participants. They have made friends, improved their listening skills and learned to see themselves and others as more than their majors and occupations.

Particularly coming out of the pandemic, we had lost some of our natural affinity toward and ability to be with other people in the ways that we once did. In some ways, it was born out of a desire to encourage people to gather again, says Braunig, who is Emorys Jewish chaplain.

Numerous studies from the National Institutes of Health have shown that even though young people have several social media apps on their phones, they are feeling more disconnected than ever. Social media has been linked to increasing numbers of young people suffering from anxiety, low self-esteem and depression. Studies have also shown that connection to community has the opposite effect.

It is completely apparent that students want interactions that are different from what theyre getting on social media. They want to be with each other, sit face-to-face, and learn about the stories of their classmates and peers, what inspires them, who they want to be in the world, says Braunig.

The Flourishing Fellows program is sponsored by the Office of the Provost and the Office of Spiritual and Religious Life (OSRL). A core principle for OSRL is that connection with others is necessary for spiritual well-being, no matter a persons faith or belief system.

On campuses nationwide, there is a renewed focus on some of the things that are most important for all people to learn  how to build friendships, how to find and foster community, and how to cultivate a sense of purpose and meaning in life, says Rev. Gregory McGonigle, dean of religious life and university chaplain.

Flourishing Fellows is also a part of the Student Flourishing Initiative, an ambitious university-wide effort to help students thrive both in and out of the classroom. A core area of the 2O36 Campaign, Student Flourishing seeks to create an integrated, transformative Emory experience through programs focused on students academic experience, professional pathways, purpose and meaning, and community and well-being.

At Emory, we are interested not just in students professional success, but their success in life overall, says Ravi V. Bellamkonda, provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. That means things like being centered, having a purposeful life, being ethical, being reflective, building strong character and building meaningful relationships within ones community. As educators, we know that the classroom accounts for only a portion of the student experience, which is why were taking a more holistic approach. Skip carousel Cole Smith came to Emory because of his lifelong dream of working for the Centers for Disease Control and prevention, but has already found much more by building lasting relationships. Koluchi Odiegwu says that the Flourishing Fellows experience has taught her how to bring more empathy and compassion into day-to-day interactions with others. Naomi Altman describes the Flourishing Fellows program as one of the most impactful experiences of her college career. Rabbi Jordan Braunig leads undergraduate students through activities and conversations on community-building. PreviousNext

Meet the fellows

The Flourishing Fellows program offers undergraduate students in all class years on the Atlanta campus the opportunity to build resilient, inclusive and relationship-based communities on campus. They started the program with a retreat in October to build trust.

Cole Smith, a third-year student from Los Gatos, California, says he was nervous when he first started the program. The chemistry major found himself not interacting with others as much as he did prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, and he wanted to change that.

I was scared I was going to mess it up at first, especially since some conversations get to depths that require care, says Smith. I like to think Im a better listener now. I allow for quiet and pauses to let people fill that space however they want.

Throughout the past seven months, Flourishing Fellows have been trained in dialogue and community-building, with an emphasis on listening. As they develop their skills, a key part of the program is practicing the art of connection. Each fellow receives a stipend to have coffee for an hour with 40 students  classmates, roommates or total strangers on campus  and have conversations that go beyond how are you? or whats your major?

For Koluchi Odiegwu, a third-year student from Atlanta pursuing a double major in comparative literature and human health, the program opened communication with her peers in unexpected ways. Odiegwu is a Nigerian American who often speaks Igbo at home, but not necessarily outside of the house.

Through the Flourishing Fellows program, she hosted a gathering with other students who speak Igbo on campus to speak to each other in their mother tongue. She says they chatted about everything from having a second culture and home to growing up with Nigerian parents. She says the experience has made her appreciate Igbo more.

As a language, Igbo expresses intimacy and deep meaning through sound changes, which is something I had seen my parents do with their friends, but never practiced intentionally, says Odiegwu. Then, I did it with people at Emory, some of whom I barely knew, and it changed how I listen to the language now. I never would have done that before Flourishing Fellows.

She also adds, Were encouraged to engage strangers, and that breaks some social codes. Its not a date or flippantly using Emory money for free coffee. Its about building authentic relationships for relationship's sake.

Building relationships and becoming more themselves are experiences many of the fellows share. Through the program, first-year student Naomi Altman has met several people on campus who share her love of ultimate frisbee and community service. Altman was drawn to Emory because of the Goizueta Business School and knew hardly anyone on campus, but the Flourishing Fellows program has reaffirmed her choice to pursue her undergraduate education here.

When you sit with someone for an hour with no phones, you get to know more about their experiences, says Altman. I cant recommend it enough. It has been one of the most impactful experiences of my short time at Emory. Its nice to know that you can connect and become friends with someone so quickly.

A new cohort of fellows will begin the program in fall 2023.

Photos by Kay Hinton, Emory Photo/Video
SIUs Morton-Kenney lecture to focus on importance of interaction, debate

by Pete Rosenbery

CARBONDALE, Ill.  Janet M. Box-Steffensmeier, a professor at The Ohio State University and one of the leading political scientists in the country, will discuss the importance of active interaction, debate and learning from each other across disciplines and perspectives when she presents the Morton-Kenney Public Affairs Lecture on Tuesday, April 25, at Southern Illinois University Carbondale.

Box-Steffensmeier, the Vernal Riffe Professor of Political Science, professor of sociology and Distinguished University Professor at Ohio State, will present Engagement and Pluralism: Paths for Making a Difference at 6 p.m. in Morris Librarys John C. Guyon Auditorium. The free, public lecture is hosted by the political science program in the School of Anthropology, Political Science, and Sociology within the College of Liberal Arts and the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute.

Box-Steffensmeier argues that people need to undertake the challenges arising from engagement and pluralism to ensure a healthy, vibrant disciplinary future and for a democracy that thrives.

I consciously extend the term engagement to apply not only to understanding across subdisciplines and different grounds of knowledge, but also to addressing research to the needs of society, she said. There are golden opportunities centered on the benefits of a more open, rigorous and contentious science that can be maximized through focused engagement around methodologies and methods.

Award-winning research

In 2017, she was selected as a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. Box-Steffensmeier recently served as president of the American Political Science Association and as president of the Midwest Political Science Association and Political Methodology Society.

This event is of interest to anyone who thinks science needs a larger role in our public discourse, J. Tobin Grant, professor of political science and director of the School of Anthropology, Political Science, and Sociology, said. Dr. Box-Steffensmeier is a leading voice on how we can expand the role of science in our society.She was an inaugural Fellow of the Society for Political Methodology. She has twice received the Gosnell Award for the best work in political methodology and the Emerging Scholar Award of the Elections, Public Opinion, and Voting Behavior Section of the American Political Science Association in 2001. The Box-Steffensmeier Graduate Student Award, given annually by the Interuniversity Consortium for Political and Social Research (ICPSR) is named after her in recognition of her contributions in political methodology and her support of women in the field.

Box-Steffensmeier earned her doctorate at the University of Texas Austin and bachelors degree in mathematics and political science from Coe College.

The Morton-Kenney Public Affairs Lecture Series is presented in the spring and fall of each academic year. The late Jerome Mileur, an SIU alumnus, established the series in 1995 in honor of two of his political science professors  Ward Morton and David Kenney  who inspired him as a student. Originally from Murphysboro, Mileur was a professor emeritus in political science at the University of Massachusetts-Amherst.

The Morton-Kenney Public Affairs Lecture Series is one of the premier lecture series organized by the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute, John Shaw, institute director, said. We are very proud of our ability to bring leading scholars and practitioners to SIU Carbondale for important lectures and policy discussions.

For more information, contact the School of Anthropology, Political Science, and Sociology at sapss@siu.edu or 618-453-3166.
New Delhi [India], April 18 (ANI/PRNewswire): INALSA has expanded its current range of vacuum cleaners with the launch of 3 new models of wet & dry vacuum cleaners. These vacuum cleaners are launched in 3 capacity namely, 12 Ltr, 20 Ltr & 25 Ltr and all of these come with stainless steel tank. With these launches, INALSA now has one of the largest number of vacuum cleaners in Wet & Dry Segment with 10 Ltr & 15 Ltr which was already in their range. INALSA Vacuum Cleaner Price & Availability: INALSA is offering up to 60 per cent discount on its newly launched vacuum cleaner range as an introductory offer for its customers. The new range of vacuum cleaners can be purchased online from Amazon or Flipkart and is also available in offline market for customers to buy. INALSA Wet & Dry Vacuum Cleaner Features: - WET AND DRY: The new range of vacuum cleaner is suitable for both Wet Cleaning & Dry Cleaning of hard surfaces, floors, carpets etc - BLOWER FUNCTION- The blower function is suitable for drying and cleaning of narrow and hard-to-reach indoor or outdoor areas. INALSA vacuum cleaners come with powerful blower function. - STRONGER AND UPGRADED - New range of INALSA Vacuum cleaners are equipped with powerful motor that delivers strong suction. The vacuum cleaners have a high-quality stainless-steel tank for longer usage life. - CUTTING-EDGE FILTRATION: HEPA filtration is designed to remove at least 99.97 per cent of particles from the air, down to at least 0.3 microns in size, while tackling the bigger stuff, too. Ideal for asthma and allergy sufferers, as well as industries that require high air quality. - EXTRA LARGE DRAIN PORT: With a regular vacuum cleaner for homes, one may have to worry about the disposal of any wet spillages. One can easily dispose off the collected waste without lifting or handling any form of wet spills, with the help of a Drain port which is available in the 25 Ltr model of the newly launched vacuum cleaner. - EASY TO USE AND DURABLE: Irrespective of the size of the home, with this wet and dry vacuum cleaner, it'll be easy to move around, thanks to its long 5m power cable, easy-to grip top carry handle, and supportive castors, which allow for portability and hassle-free cleaning. - MULTIUSE: Because of its high quality and capacity, it can be used for cleaning at Home, Offices, Garage, Workshops and Even Hotels. The Best Buy Vacuum Cleaner INALSA is a subsidiary of Taurus Group, headquartered in Spain, which is one of the most popular brands in Europe with its innovative product range of appliances since 1962. Taurus Group's operational activity is already spread across 100 countries and is managed by a team of 3000 committed, motivated and dynamic young people coming from diverse backgrounds. INALSA has been making every effort to offer high quality products and professional services to its customers. At INALSA, as products comply with stringent GS, CE, RoHS, ISI test standards and are manufactured under ISO quality systems at different production centers, the strict quality testing norms makes us accomplish the best in class material and product designs. Quality and innovation has always been the hallmark of INALSA ever since its inception. INALSA is the pioneer in food processors and launched it in India around thirty years ago and still enjoys the leadership position in this category. Currently, its range expanded to over 30 product categories with more than 200 SKUs. This story has been provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/PRNewswire)
New Delhi [India], April 18 (ANI/GPRC): The Jaipur-based ethnic wear brand Zari Jaipur has recently launched a new brand campaign, "Celebrating Timeless Traditions," on World Heritage Day. Since its inception in 2005, the brand has been catering to the buying preferences of youthful trendsetters and opened its doors to online sales in 2019, according to reports. As one of the leading players in the women's ethnic wear industry, the brand offers a wide range of high-quality products that have become the preferred choice for customers seeking festive wear for all occasions. The "Celebrating Timeless Traditions" campaign reflects the brand's commitment to the finest techniques of Indian textile and craftsmanship. The video features models dressed in Indian wear at Jaipur's famous monuments, capturing the elegance of India's vibrant culture, regal legacy, and deft intricacies in one-of-a-kind craftsmanship while keeping in mind the heritage. The brand uses an extensive array of indigenous handwork techniques, including zardosi, gota patti work, minute zari work, beads, sequins, shimmering prints, and various other elements, to craft ensembles that exude a timeless and ageless appeal. From intricate embroidery to luxurious fabrics, each piece is designed to showcase the beauty of Indian artistry and the brand's commitment to preserving Indian Traditional Art. The brand's exquisite designs in Lehenga, Suits, and Sarees are renowned for their uniqueness and originality, which are replete with a range of ensembles fit for any occasion, ritual, or ceremony. With five retail stores across five cities and wholesale operations in 80 cities, Zari is now all set to launch its sixth store in a new location in Ambikapur, Chhattisgarh; adding to its presence in Jaipur, Indore, Raipur, Udaipur, and Bilaspur. Zari specializes in bridal apparel, and they are renowned for their exceptional and magnificent hand embroidery, which is their signature style. The company has established itself as a name that beautifies not only every wedding but also the festivities that follow. Every garment created by the brand reflects their dedication to honouring Indian festivals and promoting ethnic wear. "Our latest brand campaign underscores our unwavering commitment to preserving and showcasing India's heritage through our ensembles that transcend time and age. We are utterly enthralled by the exquisite craftsmanship and artwork from all around India, as well as the many traditional clothing styles. In an effort to increase awareness and create a global audience for it, we sought to make it simpler for people all over the world to appreciate traditional art and Indian fashion. This philosophy gave rise to Zari. Our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction is unparalleled. Every piece we create is a source of great pride for us," said Ankit Palawat, Founder, Zari Jaipur. In conclusion, the campaign, "Celebrating Timeless Traditions," is a tribute to India's rich cultural heritage and the brand's commitment to preserving it through exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. The video showcases the brand's unmatched collections and reinforces its position as a leading player in the ethnic wear industry. Zari Jaipur continues to be the go-to choice for customers seeking ethnic wear for all occasions, and with this latest campaign, the brand is poised to reach more. Instagram | Facebook This story is provided by GPRC. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/GPRC)
China-Laos Railway changes people's life along "road to happiness"

Xinhua) 08:48, April 18, 2023

VIENTIANE, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Bounthavy, a young man from the tourist city of Luang Prabang in northern Laos, felt a bustling aura of the Lao New Year not seen for years in his hometown.

He attributed it to the China-Laos Railway, which launched the cross-border passenger service on Thursday to shorten the travel time between Kunming, the capital of southwest China's Yunnan Province and the Lao capital Vientiane to 10 and a half hours.

HISTORIC EVENT

"I feel proud to see the changes the China-Laos Railway has brought to my hometown!" said Bounthavy, who has been working as an interpreter during the construction of the China-Laos Railway stations.

Tourists, he said, are swarming in for the Lao New Year holiday, and hotels in Luang Prabang are operating at full capacity. Many of his fellow villagers applauded the development and changes brought by the railway, expecting a brighter future for their hometown.

Lao staff members greet passengers taking the first cross-border passenger train from Kunming, the capital of southwest China's Yunnan Province, to Lao capital Vientiane at the Boten Station of the China-Laos Railway in Luang Namtha, Laos on April 13, 2023. (Xinhua/Xing Guangli)

The launch of the cross-border passenger service of the China-Laos Railway, a major part of the trans-Asian railway network, has been hailed as a historic event for Laos, as the landlocked country has realized its dream of becoming a land-linked hub in the region and beyond.

The railway will now become a "golden key" for Laos to connect with China and other members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), which will greatly benefit the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area and the Greater Mekong Subregion Economic Cooperation.

PEOPLE-TO-PEOPLE EXCHANGES

On the D888 train that departed Thursday from Vientiane for Kunming, Alounsack, a Lao passenger who took his family to Kunming for the Lao New Year holiday, was more than excited to be one of the first-day passengers.

The first cross-border passenger train departing from the Lao capital Vientiane to Kunming, the capital of southwest China's Yunnan Province, runs on the Ganlanba bridge of the China-Laos railway in Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture in Yunnan Province, April 13, 2023. (Xinhua/Shan Yuqi)

"I would like to invite Lao people to come to take this historic train to China, to see their country, and invite Chinese to visit Laos through the railway that we jointly develop," he said, beaming with happiness.

Souklati, a staff member who performed Lao traditional singing and dancing for passengers, said she felt happy and proud to become part of the event.

"The opening of this cross-border railway is very important by making it convenient to travel internationally. Students or tourists, they have another way of travel to choose from. It will help the economy, transportation, trade, tourism to flourish, and there will be more people coming and going," she said.

"Cross-border passenger service on the China-Laos Railway will support the Lao government's policy to transform itself from being a landlocked country into a land link, as a regional one or even a global one," said Khampheuy Philapha, director general of Lao News Agency (KPL).

Thonglor Duangsavanh, editor-in-chief of local daily Vientiane Times, said that the cross-border passenger service will greatly promote Laos' national socio-economic development and facilitate people-to-people exchanges between the two neighbors.

"That may be recorded in the history book of cooperation between Laos and China," said Suanesavanh Vignaket, the Lao minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, on the first day of the cross-border passenger service.

FLOURISHING TOURISM

In northern Laos' tourist town of Vang Vieng, locals splashed water to celebrate the Lao New Year in the scorching April sun.

Despite its impressive landscapes such as karst terrain and strange caves, Vang Vieng has long been little known to the outside world for lack of transportation.

"Since the opening of the China-Laos Railway, it only takes one hour to travel from Vientiane to Vang Vieng, and the ticket price is cheaper than that of the bus. The number of tourists coming to Vang Vieng is two or three times that of the past," said Vang Vieng station passenger duty attendant Anhsamay Gnommilavong.

During the new year holiday, the ticket offices were crowded with passengers at the stations of Vientiane and Vang Vieng. Some were going home for family reunions, some visiting tourist sites, and there were also tourists coming from Europe and America.

Passengers enters the Vientiane Station of the China-Laos Railway in Vientiane, Laos, April 15, 2023. (Xinhua/Xing Guangli)

A Canadian tourist with the first name of Michael, told Xinhua at Vang Vieng Station that this was the second time he had traveled to Laos with his family.

"Last time we only visited Vientiane due to inconvenient transportation. Now with the convenient and comfortable China-Laos Railway, we can travel around northern Laos. I believe this journey will be very pleasant," he said.

Statistics from the Lao Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism show that since the China-Laos Railway opened on Dec. 3, 2021, it has activated the Lao tourism economy, as 85 percent of tourists from Vientiane to Luang Prabang have chosen to take the train.

As of Friday, 3,049 passenger trains have been running on the Lao section of the China-Laos Railway, carrying 2.22 million passengers. This year, 834 passenger trains have been running, transporting 778,000 passengers. The average passenger load rate reached 97.85 percent, and the highest daily count of passengers amounted to 10,197 on March 4.

Vignaket, the Lao minister, told Xinhua that with the support of the two governments, the Laos-China Railway, a landmark Belt and Road project, has turned from a blueprint into a reality, which will go down in the history of bilateral cooperation.

Liu Hong, general manager of Laos-China Railway Co. Ltd., said the railway is just a starting point. The iron dragon, carrying the friendship, dreams and hopes of the two peoples, is speeding towards a brighter future.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Wu Chaolan)
Several images and videos of Anushka from the stadium went viral on social media.

In one such video, she was seen seating in the stands with RCB officials. She was bowled over by the crowd's support for MS Dhoni when he came to bat.

She was caught telling her fans, "They love him" when Dhoni was marking his guard.

https://twitter.com/Akkaler/status/1647994283432218625

However, the clip was streamed just for a few seconds but the eagle-eyed fans were fast enough to lip-read what the 'Phillauri' actor was telling her friends.

Soon after the clip went viral on social media, fans flooded the comment section with red hearts and fire emoticons.

"Loved by whole universe #MSDhoni," a fan wrote.

Another fan commented, "Moment of the day."

Talking about the match, chasing a massive target of 227, RCB suffered early blows as they lost the wickets of Virat Kohli and Mahipal Lomror. Akash Singh dismissed Kohli in the first over, while Tushar Deshpande got the better of Lomror in the second.

Glenn Maxwell and captain Faf du Plessis handled RCB's charge as they slammed CSK bowlers all around the ground while taking singles at regular intervals. The blistering duo of Maxwell and captain du Plessis brought up their 100-run partnership in just 48 balls.

In the last over, Pathirana defended an equation of 19 runs with his perfect Yorkers and took the wicket of Prabhudessai to hand his team 8 run win over RCB. (ANI)
Actor Siddharth penned a note of gratitude for veteran actor Kamal Haasan. As Kamal Haasan unveiled the first look of Siddharth's from movie 'Chithha', Siddharth took to Instagram and wrote, "Thank you God. I owe so much of my life, craft and achievements as an actor in these last 20 years to one man, the unparalleled Mr. Kamal Haasan. @ikamalhaasan." He added, "I always put cinema first, I always hope to learn from everything I do, and I never stop dreaming, all because of my guru from afar, Kamal sir. I am able to make the films I want today because of the films he made when he did. He paved the way for us. He showed us the higher path. Without you sir, there might be no Actor Siddharth." https://www.instagram.com/p/CrKwF9qJgxP/?hl=en Siddharth also thanked him for making his birthday memorable with his best wishes. "He released the Title and First Look of our passion project CHITHHA yesterday, on my birthday... And he sent me these wishes from South Africa. I cannot even imagine any other birthday gift in my life could ever come close to making me feel what this video does. April 17, 2023. I got a message from god. And it made me believe. Even more. CHITHHA will be a most memorable picture. With Kamal sir's blessings, I am even more certain of this outcome," he added. Siddharth is also a part of Kamal Haasan's 'Indian 2'. In September last year, Kamal and Shankar resumed the shooting of the film in Chennai.'Indian 2', which is being bankrolled by Lyca Productions, also stars Siddharth, Kajal Aggarwal, Rakul Preet Singh, Bobby Simhaa and Priya Bhavani Shankar in key roles. The first part was released in 1996.'Indian 2' has music by Anirudh Ravichander and has writers Jayamohan, Kabilan Vairamuthu and Lakshmi Saravanakumar on board. The first poster of Indian 2 was unveiled on the occasion of the Pongal festival in 2020. (ANI)
Depending on whether the affected person's immune system is activated or not, the dreaded tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) virus infects different types of brain cells in different parts of the brain. This is demonstrated in a new study from Ume University in Sweden. "This increased understanding of how the virus behaves in the brain and how it activates the immune system is a crucial step in the development of effective treatments and preventive measures against this difficult disease," says Anna Overby, professor at Umea University and leader of the research group behind the current study. What the Umea researchers have mapped is how the TBE virus infects the brain to cause encephalitis. The researchers developed a method to three-dimensionally determine the location of viruses in the brain of mice and determine which specific parts of the brain have been infected with TBE virus. The method is based on information from image analyses that were combined with studies of gene expression in different cell types. The result can be seen as a virus "road map" in the brain. It turned out that there was a big difference between the spread of the virus in the brains of mice with and without an innate immune response. The virus infected different regions of the brain depending on the innate immune system of the mouse. When the researchers zoomed in on the cells in the infected brain regions, they could see that the immune system not only affected how the virus spread, it also changed which cell types were infected in the affected regions of the brain. When the researchers zoomed in further, they could see that in cases where the immune system in the brain could not be activated, the brain's immune cells, microglia, were infected. Their task is otherwise to help prevent and clear the infection. In mice that could activate their immune system in the brain, however, it was mainly nerve cells that were infected. It is already known that the innate immune system plays an important role in preventing the TBE virus from damaging the brain, but it has been unclear where and which cells they infect. "This is an important piece of the puzzle that is now being put in place. The results underline the importance of the immune system for those infected with TBE. We have also opened up new opportunities to study viruses that infect the brain with the new imaging methods we have developed and by combining them with gene expression analysis from individual cells," says Anna Overby. Tick-borne encephalitis virus, TBEV, is not only a major problem in Sweden, especially in tick-dense areas such as the Stockholm archipelago and in the Malardalen region, but also a big problem in central and eastern Europe. The virus can cause serious brain inflammation with long-term disabilities as a result. There is currently no curative treatment for TBE, but the most important measures are to prevent infection by avoiding tick bites and to get vaccinated. (ANI)
"Goa is a small state. But in the health sector, good facilities are being provided to the people. The tele-consultation services in Goa are well-connected to cater to the citizens' needs even in the remotest parts of the state," Mandaviya said.

In Goa for the second Health Working Group meeting under G20 India Presidency, the minister along with the invitee countries, delegates, international organisations and development partners visited the Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centre (AB-HWC) in Corlim, North Goa, on Tuesday.

"For around 5,000-6,000 people, there is a health and wellness centre here through which people are provided primary treatment," Mandaviya said.

"Goa has over 200 AB-HWCs, Jan Aushadhi Kendras, and medical colleges for training young medical professionals, among other initiatives," he added.

The minister also distributed food baskets among the TB patients at the centre and reiterated that the government is working relentlessly towards making India TB-free by 2025, five years before the global target of 2030.

--IANS sbk/arm

( 183 Words)

2023-04-18-19:12:04 (IANS)
Hours after Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announced compensation to hooch tragedy victims, Bihar BJP President Samrat Chaudhary criticised him for not holding an all-party meeting to discuss the situation over the liquor deaths. He said "Nitish Kumar is executing his 'Paltimar' approach in laws now. He has become ill and he should resign from the post of chief minister." "Nitish Kumar had given a statement in the House that he will organise an all-party meeting to apprise the leaders of hooch deaths. But, he didn't organise the meeting and decided for compensation to promote himself. He has nothing to do with democracy. He is known as 'Paltu Kumar' in the past and he has executed the 'Paltimar' plan again without caring for laws," Chaudhary said. "As per official figures, 37 persons lost their lives in the East Champaran hooch tragedy but the state government has taken action only on low rank officers. DGP, home secretary and chief secretary are guilty of liquor tragedy, hence action should be taken against them. Chief minister Nitish Kumar is also a home minister of the state, so he has to resign from the post," the BJP leader said. Union Minister of State for Home, Nityanand Rai, said: "The JDU-RJD-led Mahagahtbandhan government is responsible for the deaths due to hooch tragedies in Bihar. The way a large number of people died due to hooch tragedy in East Champaran attributes to arrogance and cruel face of the government." Nitish Kumar on Monday announced that an ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakh will be given to all family members of the victims who lost their lives in hooch tragedy since the liquor ban was imposed in April 2016. --IANS ajk/uk/ ( 293 Words) 2023-04-17-20:42:01 (IANS)
The Agriculture Production Department in Jammu and Kashmir is all set to launch the Kisan Sampark Abhiyan, a programme aimed at overall welfare of farmers across the Union Territory, according to an official statement issued on Monday. Additional Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on Monday chaired a meeting in this regard to review the preparations being put in place for the programme launch. The Kisan Sampark Abhiyan will be launched across 3,565 panchayats in Jammu and Kashmir from April 24, and will last for four months. The programme aims to involve Panchayati Raj institutions in the scheme and celebrate 'Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav' as part of the scheme. To ensure success of the ambitious programme, a total of 2,400 resource persons have been identified and trained for all the districts. Also, 45 educational videos in multiple languages have been created to educate the farmers, along with printing pamphlets in Urdu, Hindi and English. The Kisan Sampark Abhiyan will include question and answer sessions for the farmers. Also, the farmers will receive education about 18 Centrally-sponsored Schemes that have been designed for their welfare and development. Additionally, manual passbooks under the Kisan Credit Card scheme will be replaced by smart cards for the farmers. --IANS zi/arm ( 214 Words) 2023-04-17-20:48:03 (IANS)
Unfazed over the exit of disgruntled leaders who were denied tickets for the May 10 Assembly polls, Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai said on Monday that the BJP is a community and cadre-based party and it will win 130 seats to get absolute majority in the 224-member state Assembly. Speaking to reporters at the Mysuru airport, Bommai said that a few leaders may have deserted the party but as the BJP is not an individual-based party like others, the defection of some leaders will not have any impact. "The Congress did not have candidates for around 60 constituencies, so it announced nominees for just 150 constituencies and kept quiet without releasing the list for all the 224 seats. It is of no use to get leaders to defect from the strongholds of the BJP and give them Congress tickets," Bommai said. Reacting to former Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar's entry into the Congress fold, Bommai said that the senior leader is a very simple and good person, but unfortunately got into bad company. "Social reformer Basavanna preached to people not to make friendship with bad people. But Shettar, who was in the company of good people, went to the bad people's group," Bommai said. With the BJP pitching state minister V. Somanna from the Lingayat community against Congress strongman and former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in the Varuna Assembly constituency, Bommai said the contest is intense but it is pro-BJP. "A surprise result will come from this constituency due to political and social polarisation. For this reason, a senior and seasoned leader like Somanna has been fielded in this constituency. We have taken this seat seriously and Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch the poll campaign a day after the withdrawal of nomination papers," Bommai said. The Chief Minister also said that he doesn't not know why the Congress has not announced a candidate for the Shiggaon Assembly constituency from where Bommai is contesting the polls. "I have already filed my nomination and have full faith in the voters of ny constituency. My opponent is immaterial as the people's mandate and support is very important. There is no dearth of it," the Chief Minister said. --IANS pvn/arm ( 378 Words) 2023-04-17-20:58:02 (IANS)
Amid the speculation regarding a possible alliance between the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Union Minister Anurag Thakur said here on Tuesday that in politics "discussions keep happening." "In politics, discussions keep happening...some news should be enjoyed," he told reporters. Responding to the meeting of former Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray with Congress leader KC Venugopal, Thakur said people will never accept the "Mahathagbadhan". "All corrupt parties are trying to take each other's help. But people have never accepted this 'Mahathagbadhan' and they never will. Because their whole identity is without any policy, leader or leadership. They (Opposition) are just trying to cover up their corruption, prevent themselves from going to jail and keep their political existence alive," the minister said. He also hit out at the Opposition parties who are complaining about the law and order situation in Uttar Pradesh. "When these mafia used to kill common people, businessmen, then none of these leaders gave any statements. The mafia used to get protection from the previous governments. The question arises why all these leaders are making statements now," Thakur added. Gangster-turned politician Atiq Ahmed, and his brother, Ashraf were killed by three assailants, who posed as mediapersons, on Saturday night, while they were being taken for medical checkup in Prayagraj, UP. In wake of this incident, several opposition parties have been attacking the UP government flagging concerns regarding the law and order situation in the state. Talking about his tour to Palghar, Thakur said that he has the responsibility of four Lok Sabha constituencies in Maharashtra. "I have full faith that in the coming elections, the people will give their blessings to the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance," he added. (ANI)
The mining team learnt that sand mafia were overloading the trucks near the Parev village and a team of the Mines Department and Bihta police went there for the inspection.

However, the sand mafias and truck drivers attacked the team. Seeing the assailants, outnumbered them, the police and Mines Department fled but the woman official was not as lucky, and fell down.

The assailants beat her with batons and also pelted stones on her. Soon a large number of police personnel headed by SP, City, West reached the spot and chased away the mafia members.

As per the official spokesperson of Patna police, 44 accused have been arrested in connection with attack.

"We have registered three separate FIRs in Bihta police station in connection with the incident and investigation is currently underway. We have arrested 44 accused in this connection," the spokesperson said.

--IANS ajk/vd

( 189 Words)

2023-04-17-22:34:02 (IANS)
The Supreme Court on Monday granted bail to Trinamool Congress' Gujarat spokesperson Saket Gokhale in a case related to alleged misuse of money collected through crowdfunding. Additional Solicitor General S.V. Raju vehemently opposed Gokhale's bail application before a bench of Justices B.R. Gavai and Vikram Nath, but they noted that a charge sheet has already been filed in the matter. "Taking into consideration the nature of the allegation and that the charge sheet has already been filed, we are inclined to grant bail," said the bench, in its order. "The petitioner is directed to be released on bail in connection with the FIR at Cyber Crime P.S. Ahmedabad City, subject to furnishing personal bail bond and sureties to the satisfaction of the trial court. The special leave petition is, accordingly, disposed of. Pending application(s), if any, shall stand disposed of," it said. In January this year, the Gujarat High Court had declined to grant bail to Gokhale, who was arrested from Delhi subsequent to lodging of FIR of December 28, 2022, by Ahmedabad police disclosing commission of offence under Sections 120B, 420, 467,471 of the IPC. Gokhale moved the apex court challenging the high court order. According to the FIR, Gokhale, who allegedly claimed that he was RTI activist and a social worker on his various social media platforms, raised over Rs one crore for filing RTIs for public purposes but utilised the money for other purposes, including personal luxuries and lavish living. --IANS ss/vd ( 263 Words) 2023-04-17-22:46:04 (IANS)
Putting on your workout clothes and making your way to the gym can be a chore at first. You may eventually develop the habit of going to the gym and quickly slipping over to your Zumba class or a treadmill run. A new study from social scientists at Caltech shows that it takes an average of six months to form a gym habit. The same study also looked at how long it takes health care workers to get in the habit of washing their hands: an average of a few weeks. "There is no magic number for habit formation," says Anastasia Buyalskaya, an assistant professor of marketing at HEC Paris. Other authors of the study, which appears in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, include Caltech's Colin Camerer, Robert Kirby Professor of Behavioral Economics and director and leadership chair of the T&C Chen Center for Social and Decision Neuroscience, and researchers from the University of Chicago and the University of Pennsylvania. Xiaomin Li, formerly a graduate student and postdoctoral scholar at Caltech, is also an author. "You may have heard that it takes about 21 days to form a habit, but that estimate was not based on any science," Camerer says. "Our works support the idea that the speed of habit formation differs according to the behaviour in question and a variety of other factors." The study is the first to use machine learning tools to study habit formation. The researchers employed machine learning to analyze large data sets of tens of thousands of people who were either swiping their badges to enter their gym or washing their hands during hospital shifts. For the gym research, the researchers partnered with 24 Hour Fitness, and for the hand-washing research, they partnered with a company that used radio frequency identification (RFID) technology to monitor hand-washing in hospitals. The data sets tracked more than 30,000 gymgoers over four years and more than 3,000 hospital workers over nearly 100 shifts. "With machine learning, we can observe hundreds of context variables that may be predictive of behavioral execution," explains Buyalskaya. "You don't necessarily have to start with a hypothesis about a specific variable, as the machine learning does the work for us to find the relevant ones." Machine learning also let the researchers study people over time in their natural environments; most previous studies were limited to participants filling out surveys. The study found that certain variables had no effect on gym habit formation, such as time of day. Other factors, such as one's past behavior, did come into play. For instance, for 76 percent of gymgoers, the amount of time that had passed since a previous gym visit was an important predicator of whether the person would go again. In other words, the longer it had been since a gymgoer last went to the gym, the less likely they were to make a habit of it. Sixty-nine percent of the gymgoers were more likely to go to the gym on the same days of the week, with Monday and Tuesday being the most well attended. For the hand-washing part of the study, the researchers looked at data from health care workers who were given new requirements to wear RFID badges that recorded their hand-washing activity. "It is possible that some health workers already had the habit prior to us observing them, however, we treat the introduction of the RFID technology as a 'shock' and assume that they may need to rebuild their habit from the moment they use the technology," Buyalskaya says. "Overall, we are seeing that machine learning is a powerful tool to study human habits outside the lab," Buyalskayasays. (ANI)
A Delhi court on Monday directed Aaj Tak news channel not to air the findings of the narco analysis and psychological evaluation done on Aaftab Amin Poonawala, the accused in the murder of Shraddha Walkar case, till the next hearing. Additional Sessions Judge Manisha Khurana Kakkar of the Saket Court Complex granted the Delhi police liberty to approach a higher court for pursuing the remedy requested in their application for restraining news channels from airing or publishing any content related to the FIR registered in the case. "The publication of the said document, especially the CCTV footage, can severely prejudice the right of fair trial of the accused as enshrined under Article 21 (protection to life and personal liberty) of the Constitution of India, and the channel cannot be allowed to telecast the content of the same so as to conduct a media trial," Kakkar said. She also cited a Delhi High Court ruling of 2001 that said the media has no place in the administration of justice once the proceedings have begun. The court then took note of an undertaking by the news channel's lawyer that it would not broadcast, publish, or otherwise make available the contents of the voice layered test, narco analysis, or conversation captured on Dr. Practo's App, for the following three days. "Thus, in view of the undertaking given on behalf of the said channel in the court today and in view of the aforesaid judgments, the said channel shall not telecast psychological assessment and voice layered test, narco analysis and conversation recorded on the App of Dr Practo/documents as well as charge sheet and CCTV footage for the next three days, i.e., till April 20," the court said. "You (Delhi Police) might also approach the constitutional court and exercise your remedy. You need an order that will help you with other channels also. It would be in your favour to get an order from a higher court," the judge said. Amit Prasad, a special public prosecutor, claimed that because digital content is sensitive by nature, broadcasting it would jeopardise the accused's right to a fair trial in addition to having an adverse effect on law and order. He said: "A media trial creates a bias not only in the minds of the general public, but also puts pressure on the court while taking decisions." The advocate for Aaj Tak argued that there is no provision under the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) which could empower the present court to pass any such restraint order and that there are precedents to the effect that only constitutional courts (Supreme Court and high courts) have such inherent power. He added that no prejudice is likely to be caused to the accused in case such content is telecast. On April 10, the prosecution had claimed that such telecast would be damaging, not only for the case, but will also impact the accused and the family members of the victim. --IANS spr/arm ( 514 Words) 2023-04-17-23:16:02 (IANS)
After meeting with Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal, former Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Monday said that the two parties despite all differences in their ideologies will come together in the "fight for democracy". Venugopal on Monday met Thackeray at his 'Matoshree' residence in Mumbai, in what can be termed as yet another step in the direction of forming "opposition unity". Addressing a press conference, Thackeray said, "First of all, I want to welcome him (Venugopal) here at Matoshree. There are differences in our ideology but it is a democracy and we have to come together with hardly a year left for the election. They (BJP) only want power and we Shiv Sena are here to save democracy". He said that the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thakarey) and Congress will come together in the "fight for democracy". The former Chief Minister also accused BJP of betrayal. "We maintained a relationship with the BJP for 25-30 years. But they did not understand who was a friend and who was an opponent. We will together fight for democracy in the country," he said. "Last time when BJP chief JP Nadda came to Mumbai, he said that there will be only one party and that is BJP. This is the biggest betrayal to all other parties. The way they tried to finish Shiv Sena and betrayed the party, they are trying to do the same with other parties too," he said. KC Venugopal also addressed the press conference and said, "I have requested Uddhav ji to come to Delhi and meet Sonia ji and Rahul". Earlier on April 13, as part of efforts to forge opposition unity to take on the BJP in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, NCP chief Sharad Pawar met Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and party leader Rahul Gandhi. During the meeting, discussions centred on the need to talk to other parties and to move together in the fight for various issues concerning people. On the same day, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav met Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, as part of efforts to unite as many opposition parties to take on the BJP. (ANI)
An operation to douse the fire was underway at the time of filing this report.

Further details are awaited on the matter.

In another incident, in Maharashtra, a massive fire broke out at a scrap compound at Mandla in the Mankhurd area in the wee hours of Tuesday.

On receiving word of the blaze, several fire brigade engines and local police officers rushed to the spot and went about dousing the flames.

Plumes of smoke from the fire spread far and wide, informed sources.

There was no word on casualties, if any, in the fire till the filing of this report.

More than a dozen fire tenders were at the spot and efforts were underway to extinguish the fire till last reports.

The police have also launched an investigation to ascertain the reason for the fire. (ANI)
Little Seerat Naaz, the girl from the remote Lohai-Malhar village of Jammu's Kathua district who, in a viral video, flagged the sorry state of her school and urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to direct urgent repairs, aspires to be an IAS officer. Speaking to ANI, little Seerat said she wishes that the administration does the needful in bringing the necessary infrastructure upgrade to the government high school she studies in. Seerat, who studies in the third standard, belongs to a humble household. Her father, the sole breadwinner in the family, works as a daily labourer in Himachal Pradesh. The little one lives with her mother and younger sister, who studies in the second standard at the same school. Nearly 300 students drawn from far-off hilly villages study at the government high school at Lohai. In the viral video, the girl sought to direct Prime Minister Modi's attention to the poor infrastructure at the school, adding that the students are made to sit on an unclean floor and have to relieve themselves in the open as the toilets have been lying in a state of disrepair. She urged PM Modi to take note of her concerns and build her and her fellow colleagues a new school where they would have proper benches to sit on. An ANI team visited the school, which lies 180 kms from the Kathua district headquarters. Speaking to ANI, the girl, yet again, shed light on the pitiable state of her school. She said that apart from lacking in basic infrastructure and amenities, the school also doesn't have a playground. "Our school is in a bad state and we have to deal with a plethora of problems. So, I took it upon myself to flag our concerns to Modi-ji as he listens to the 'Mann Ki Baat' of one and all. I urged him to listen to our 'Mann ki Baat' as well and get us a school equipped with all necessary amenities," Seerat told ANI. Seerat's mother, Bhavna Naaz, told ANI that the school has little apart from a decrepit building. "I have two daughters. My husband works as a labourer in Himachal Pradesh. This area only has a solitary school and children from far-off hilly areas come here, covering several miles on foot, in the quest of receiving an education. Compared to most urban schools, this one has nothing but a building, which, too, is in a sorry state. It doesn't have benches for students to sit on. At a time when the government is talking about a 'Digital India', I believe the schools, even in the remotest corners of the country, need to be equipped in line with this vision," she said. The Director of School Education, Jammu, Ravi Krishan Sharma also visited the school to assess the situation on the ground. Speaking to ANI after his visit, Sharma said, "The administration is working for the upliftment of education infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir. Funds totalling Rs 1 crore have already been sanctioned for the construction of additional classrooms at the school. This school building could not be completed due to some technical issues raised by the contractor and work stopped midway while the dispute was being resolved. Now, we have decided to finish the remaining work by issuing a new tender." The matter came to light after Seerat Naaz, in her video, voiced an adorable wish to Prime Minister Narendra Modi -- "Please Modi-ji, ek achhi si school banwa do na (Please Modi-ji, build a nice school for us)". "Modi-ji, aap poore desh ki sunte ho. Meri bhi sun lo aur achha sa humara yeh school banwa do. Bilkul sundar sa school bana do taaki humein niche na baithna padhe. Taaki Mamma na mare. Taaki achhe se padhai karein. Humara school please achhe se banwa do (Modi-ji, you listen to all the countrymen. Please listen to me too and build us a good school. The school should be such that we don't have to sit on the floor. So that my mother doesn't scold or cane me. So that we could all study well. Please have a nice school constructed for us)," she further says in the video. (ANI)
A total of 150 workers were inside the building when the incident took place.

The injured have been shifted to a hospital, the administration added.

While talking to ANI, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Karnal, Anish Yadav said, "A total of 24 people have been affected out of which 20 are injured and 4 are dead. Around 150 workers were inside the building when the incident took place. The injured have been admitted to a hospital."

"Prima facie we found that the building had some defects. A committee will be formed to investigate the incident. Legal action will be taken against the rice mill owners," the DC added.

Meanwhile, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) are also about to reach the spot.

Karnal Superintendent of Police (SP) Shashank Kumar said, "Four people are dead and 20 were injured in the incident. We have started the rescue operation. NDRF and SDRF teams will also reach here. No one is missing now, we have cross-checked the list of workers." (ANI)
Police said a PCR call was received at around 5.06 am on Monday, informing about the collapse of two houses at Kunwar Singh Nagar, Nangloi.

In the first incident, a two-storey building caved in, leaving a total of seven persons injured. In the other incident, a single-storey building went down, leaving 2 persons injured.

Two fire engines, 2 PCR vans, 5 CATS (Centralised Accident and Trauma Services) ambulances, a vehicle of the Delhi Disaster Management Authority and a minibus of the Disaster Management Service along with Delhi Police personnel reached the spot, the police added.

All nine persons were rescued with the help of locals and firefighters and were rushed to Sanjay Gandhi Hospital at Mangolpuri in Delhi.

Of the nine injured persons, 5 were identified as men -- including a 5-year-old boy, 2 women and 2 minor girls aged 5 years and 6 months respectively, the police said.

Six of the injured were said to be out of danger while 2 were shifted to the ICU, the police said.

A team from the Forensic Science Laboratory Division (FSL) team was called to survey the scene but they couldn't collect samples because of the hazardous state of the buildings.

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Punjabi Bagh were also informed about the incident.

Police said a case has been registered under sections 285 and 337 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and an investigation is underway. (ANI)
The Supreme Court on Tuesday adjourned the hearing for April 25 of the petitions challenging the scrapping of the four per cent (Other backward Classes) OBC quota for Muslims in Karnataka. The Karnataka government sought an adjournment and assured a bench of Justices KM Joseph and BV Nagarathna that no fresh appointments or admissions would be made based on Karnataka's order scrapping the reservation for Muslims till the next date of hearing. Last week, the Karnataka government had told the bench that no admissions or appointments will take place on the basis of a government order scrapping the OBC reservation for Muslims till April 18. The assurance was given by Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to the apex court which listed the matter for further hearing on April 18. The bench had also issued notice to Karnataka Government and others on the pleas and asked them to file a reply. During the hearing last week, the apex court opined that it seemed that the government order is based on "fallacious presumptions". Petitions were filed in the apex court challenging the Karnataka government's decision to scrap the reservation of four per cent given to Muslims in the state. The petitioners said that the decision of the state government was completely unconstitutional, which was done just ahead of the upcoming assembly election. The petitioners also said that the government has misrepresented facts and that there there is no empirical data. The Karnataka government last month scrapped the four per cent OBC reservation for Muslims and distributed it to the two dominant communities, Veerashaiva-Lingayats and Vokkaligas. The government also decided to move OBC Muslims to the 10 per cent Economically Weaker Section (EWS) category. Meanwhile, the Assembly election in Karnataka is scheduled to be held on May 10 and the counting of votes will take place on May 13. (ANI)
Two more aides of fugitive radical preacher and Khalistan leader Amritpal Singh were arrested at Mohali in Punjab, in a joint operation by Punjab and Delhi Police. The arrested aides of the Waris Punjab De were identified as Gurjant Singh and Nisha. The Crime Investigation Agency (CIA) staff of Punjab Police and a team of Delhi Police chased a car and surrounded it outside Kothi No. 1136 in Sector 89, Mohali. In what was seen as a major breakthrough amid the continuing manhunt for Amritpal, Punjab police earlier arrested his close aide Joga Singh from Sirhind in the Fatehgarh Sahib district. "Punjab police arrested 'Waris Punjab De' chief Amritpal Singh's main aide Joga Singh from Sirhind. He was arrested in a joint operation by Amritsar police rural and Hoshiyarpur police," DIG Border Range Narinder Bhargav said at a press briefing on Saturday. According to the police, Joga Singh gave Amritpal shelter, helped him escape from Delhi and then brought him back to Punjab. "This is the person who took Amritpal from the time he was reported absconding, beyond Delhi, gave him shelter and then brought him back to Punjab. He wasn't booked under NSA (National Security Act). He will be produced in the Hoshiarpur court. Joga Singh's intention was to stay low in some areas of Haryana," said Narinder Bhargav. Earlier, the Punjab police arrested Papalpreet Singh, a close aide of the fugitive Khalistan leader, and he was brought to Assam's Dibrugarh Central Jail. Briefing the media on the capture of Amritpal's close aide, Punjab's Inspector General of Police (IGP), Headquarters, Sukhchain Singh Gill said Papalpreet was arrested under the National Security Act (NSA). "Papalpreet Singh, the main associate of Amritpal Singh was arrested by Amritsar Rural Police from the Kathu Nangal area. The arrest was made under the National Security Act. Apart from being an associate of Amritpal, he was also wanted in six cases," Gill said, adding that action against him will be taken as per the law. Papalpreet was seen with the fugitive Khalistan leader in several photographs that surfaced after the duo escaped the dragnet cast for them by the state police. In an unverified video on March 30, the 'Waris Punjab De' chief said he was not "a fugitive" and would soon "appear in front of the world". (ANI)
Earlier on March 20, the top court reserved an order on Gogoi's plea challenging the Guwahati High Court order which has allowed the probe agency to frame charges against Gogoi and three others in connection with anti-CAA protests.

A bench of justices V Ramasubramanian and Pankaj Mithal reserved the order after arguments were concluded in the matter.

The National Investigation Agency in Guwahati High Court challenged the order of a Special NIA Court on July 1 in 2021, giving a clean chit to the four accused.

Hearing the plea, the High Court asked the agency to proceed with framing charges after reopening the case. (ANI)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the inaugural session of the Global Buddhist Summit on April 20, Friday, here in the national capital, the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) informed through a release on Tuesday. The PM's address is scheduled at 10 am at Hotel Ashok in Delhi. The two-day summit is being hosted by the Union Ministry of Culture in collaboration with International Buddhist Confederation on April 20-21. The theme for the summit is 'Responses to Contemporary Challenges: Philosophy to Praxis'. "The summit is an effort towards engaging the global Buddhist Dhamma leadership and scholars on matters of Buddhist and universal concerns, and to come up with policy inputs to address them collectively. The discussion at the summit will explore how the Buddha Dhamma's fundamental values can provide inspiration and guidance in contemporary settings," read the release. Officials at the PMO said the summit will witness the participation of eminent scholars, sangha leaders and dharma practitioners from all over the world. They will discuss pressing global issues and look for answers in the Buddha Dhamma that are based on universal values. "The discussions will be held under four themes -- Buddha Dhamma and Peace; Buddha Dhamma: Environmental Crisis, Health and Sustainability; Preservation of Nalanda Buddhist Tradition; Buddha Dhamma Pilgrimage, Living Heritage and Buddha Relics: a resilient foundation to India's centuries-old cultural links to countries in South, South-East and East Asia," the release stated further. (ANI)
Former Delhi deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia was brought to the Rouse Avenue Court on Tuesday to attend proceedings in connection with alleged irregularities in the now-scrapped liquor policy. The court is scheduled to hear rebuttal arguments of Sisodia's lawyer in his bail plea. On Monday, Special Judge MK Nagpal extended Sisodia's judicial custody in the CBI case till April 27 and in the ED case till April 29. The AAP leader was produced physically before the court from Tihar, after the end of his judicial custody. Recently, Special Judge Nagpal denied bail to Sisodia stating that the allegations made against him are serious in nature and at this stage of the case, he does not deserve to be released on bail as he has been arrested in this case only on February 26, 2023, and investigation even qua his role has still not been completed, what to say about some other co-accused involved in the case whose roles are also yet being investigated. Further, the Sisodia does not even satisfy the triple test keeping in view his conduct as reflected by the destruction or non-production of his previous mobile phones of the relevant period and also the apparent role played by him in not producing or missing the file of one Cabinet Note put up through the then Excise Commissioner Rahul Singh, there may be serious apprehensions of destruction or tampering of some further evidence and even of influencing of some prime witnesses of this case by him or at his instance, in case he is released on bail by the court, the court said. According to the CBI, Sisodia had played the most important and vital role in the criminal conspiracy and he had been deeply involved in the formulation as well as the implementation of the said policy to ensure the achievement of the objectives of the said conspiracy. The payment of advance kickbacks of around Rs 90-100 crores was meant for him and his other colleagues in the GNCTD and Rs 20-30 crores out of the above are found to have been routed through the co-accused Vijay Nair, Abhishek Boinpally and approver Dinesh Arora and in turn, certain provisions of the excise policy were permitted to be tweaked and manipulated by the applicant to protect and preserve the interests of South liquor lobby and to ensure repayment of the kickbacks to the said lobby, noted the court. The evidence collected so far clearly shows that the applicant through the co-accused Vijay Nair was in contact with the South lobby and formulation of a favourable policy for them was being ensured at every cost and a cartel was permitted to be formed to achieve a monopoly in the sale of certain liquor brands of favoured manufacturers and it was permitted to be done against very objectives of the policy. Thus, as per allegations made by the prosecution and the evidence collected in support thereof so far, the applicant can prima facie be held to be the architect of the said criminal conspiracy, noted the Court. Earlier, the Rouse Avenue Court, while sending Sisodia to CBI remand, directed that the interrogation of the accused during the remand period shall be conducted at some place having CCTV coverage, in accordance with guidelines laid down by the Supreme Court and the said footage shall be preserved by the CBI. Sisodia was arrested by CBI and ED in an ongoing investigation of a case related to alleged irregularities in the framing and implementation of the excise policy of the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi. (ANI)
"On April 18, a SpiceJet B737 aircraft operating flight SG-8373 (Delhi-Srinagar) returned to Delhi as the AFT cargo fire light illuminated the cockpit," the spokesperson said.

According to the SpiceJet spokesperson, the light was later extinguished upon actions taken by the flight captain.

"Before landing, all operational parameters were observed to be normal and the aircraft landed safely and passengers were deplaned normally," the spokesperson said.

"Subsequently, upon opening of AFT cargo, no sign of fire or smoke was found and based on initial assessment, the warning was observed to be false," the spokesperson added.

Earlier, an Abu Dhabi-bound Etihad Airways flight returned to the Bangalore International Airport shortly after take-off due to a technical issue, the airline said.

The airline said the aircraft did a normal landing at Bangalore airport.

The flight inspection was done and later took off to its destination where it landed this morning.

"Etihad Airways flight EY237 from Bangalore International Airport to Abu Dhabi on April 2, returned to Bangalore Airport shortly after take-off due to a technical issue. The aircraft performed a normal landing in Bangalore. The required technical inspections were completed, and the flight continued to Abu Dhabi, where it landed early this morning," Etihad Airways said in a statement. (ANI)
Nationalist Congress Party leader and former Maharashtra deputy chief minister, Ajit Pawar on Tuesday dismissed "rumours" about switching over to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and emphasised that he plans to remain with the NCP. "No truth in the rumours spread about me. I am with the NCP and will remain with the party," Ajit Pawar said addressing media persons here. "I have not taken the signatures of any MLAs. Now, all rumours must stop," the Maharashtra NCP leader said on speculations that he had taken a meeting of MLAs who wanted to switch to the to ruling Eknath Shinde-BJP alliance. Earlier today, Ajit Pawar's uncle and NCP chief Sharad Pawar had tweeted," Ajit Pawar is busy with election-related work. All this talk is only in the media." Ajit Pawar also in a tweet issued a stout denial of the news reports, "There are some media reports saying that I have convened a meeting of the (NCP) MLAs on Tuesday. This is completely false. I wish to clarify that I have not called a meeting of my party MLAs and office bearers." This comes just days after the BJP's Maharashtra chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule brushed off speculations linking Ajit Pawar to the ruling camp, saying he wasn't aware of any such move. He further clarified that the Sharad Pawar-led NCP hasn't held any discussions with him in this connection. "I don't have any information about him joining the BJP or having talks with anyone in the party. He has not held any discussions with me," Bawankule had told ANI. Meanwhile, Shiv Sena (Uddhav Bal Thackeray) leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut said on Tuesday, "These are baseless rumours. I spoke with him (Ajit Pawar) and other (NCP) leaders this morning." "If those spreading such canards think that they can weaken the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) by resorting to such ploys, then they are mistaken," the Shiva Sena (UBT) MP added. There was a buzz about Ajit Pawar joining the BJP after the NCP leader recently hailed the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi while adding he had full faith in Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), in a remark seen as a departure from the Opposition line on the subject. Backing the EVMs, Maharashtra's Leader of Opposition in the Assembly said if the devices were faulty, there would not be any Opposition-ruled states. He cited the governments of West Bengal and Telangana and other states as examples to support his argument. "Personally, I have full faith in EVMs. If the EVMs were faulty, then we would not have any Opposition-led governments like in Chattisgarh, West Bengal, Rajasthan, Punjab, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. It is not possible to manipulate EVMs as there are lots of checks and balances involved to ensure their efficacy," Ajit Pawar told mediapersons earlier, "If somehow, it is proven that EVMs were manipulated, there will be big chaos in the country. I don't think anyone would dare to do such a thing (challenge the efficacy of EVMs). Sometimes, some people cast aspersions on EVMs after losing elections. One has to respect the mandate of the people," he added. (ANI)
The arrested accused has been identified as Pawan Kumar, a Superintendent of Customs department, Kolkata Port in Khidirpur of Kolkata, West Bengal.

A case was registered against a Superintendent of Customs, Kolkata Port, Khidirpur, Kolkata on a complaint. It was alleged that the accused had initially demanded illegal gratification of Rs three lakh from the complainant through a Customs House Agent (CHA) for releasing the consignment of the complainant's firm, which was imported from China.

"The accused reduced the bribe to Rs one lakh and finally agreed to accept the amount of Rs fifty thousand for releasing the consignment after meeting with complainant," the central agency said.

It was also alleged that the penalty (detention charges) of the said consignment had been accruing since January, this year and this amount increased to around Rs three lakh.

CBI laid a trap and caught the accused red-handed while demanding and accepting illegal gratification of Rs.50,000 from the complainant.

Searches were conducted at two places including in West Bengal, Bihar at the premises of the accused.

The arrested accused will be produced in the Court of Special Judge, Alipore in West Bengal. (ANI)
The MCD elections for the Delhi Mayor and Deputy Mayor will be held on April 26.

On Monday, Shelly Oberoi and Aaley Muhammad Iqbal filed nominations as AAP candidates for the second term.

Delhi Education Minister Atishi and AAP MP Sanjay Singh accompanied them.

Speaking on occasion, MP Sanjay Singh said, "The nomination process will end on April 18 and the ordinary meeting of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi will be held on Wednesday, April 26, 2023, at 11 am at Aruna Asaf Ali Sabhagar.".

Earlier in the year, Shelly Oberoi was elected mayor of Delhi in the fourth attempt after much wrangling over the post between the AAP and the BJP.

The last three attempts to elect the Mayor had failed after the AAP and BJP councillors literally came to blows. They met for the first time on January 6, the second on January 24 and the last on February 6.

The municipal elections in Delhi were held on December 4 and the results were announced on December 7.

Aam Aadmi Party won 134 of the 250 seats in the House. (ANI)
Union minister of state for minority affairs John Barla on Tuesday met Syro-Malabar Church major archbishop Mar George Alencherry in Kochi, and said that Christians are 'safe' under PM Narendra Modi's government. "The meeting with the Bishop was fruitful. There are many things to do for the betterment of the Christian people. I know that, after 2014, Christian people are safe in Modi Government in Kerala and all over India. After 2014, not any disturbance in any area," Barla said while speaking to reporters. "We have to work together. There are many things to do. They (Christians) are not aware of many central government schemes," Barla added. Barla who arrived in Kerala on Monday for a three-day visit to meet Christian leaders termed the meeting with the Bishop very fruitful. The meeting was a part of the BJP-led Central government's outreach programme in the state. Kerala Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) vice president AN Radhakrishnan accompanied MoS John Barla. On Monday, Barla attended an Iftaar party in Thrissur at 8 pm. He tweeted later that the beauty of Iftar lies in the sense of community it brings. "Sharing a meal with loved ones is truly a blessing. Let's take a moment to appreciate the diversity of our community and come together to celebrate this special occasion. Happy Iftar to all!" On Monday, he also visited the St Euphrasia Shrine & Museum and spent some time in prayer for the people of our nation. "It was a joy to interact with the fathers and sisters of the church, who shared their wisdom and insights with me. Such a meaningful and inspiring experience!" he tweeted. He visited the historic ST Thomas Church Malayatoor in Ernakulum on Monday. "Visited the historic St. Thomas Church Malayatoor in Ernakulum today and had an amazing breakfast with the priest of the church! Got to hear their grievances and proposals for new projects. Even interacted with some media persons," Barla tweeted on Monday. Barla interacted with Christian leaders at Divine Retreat Centre in Chalakuddi later on Monday. "Had a great opportunity to interact with fathers, brothers, & Christian leaders at Divine Retreat Centre in Chalakuddi, Kerala. It was a pleasure to share with them the latest initiatives and schemes of the central government," he tweeted. (ANI)
In a shocking incident, officials of the Bihar's Mining Department, including a woman, were beaten with sticks and attacked allegedly by sand mining mafia when they were conducting an inspection in Bihta town of Patna district, officials said. A purported video of the incident that went viral on Monday showed the officials being chased by alleged members of the sand mafia who thrashed the officials with sticks and hurled stones at them. The purported video also shows the women official being dragged and beaten by the mob as she fell to the ground when trying to escape. A total of 44 people were arrested and three FIRs have been filed in connection with the incident, Patna Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) said. The police official said that raids are underway to arrest others in connection with the incident which took place at Parev village under Bihta police station area. Bihar's mines minister Ramanand Yadav said that he will visit the site of the incident today and decide on the next course of action. According to Patna district administration, the incident took place when a team had gone for inspection as part of its drive to check illegal mining in the Bihta area. The injured officials include mining inspectors Amya Kumari, Kumar Gaurav and Syed Farheen. As the accused started throwing stones at them, Amya Kumari fell down and suffered injuries," the district administration said. District Magistrate Patna Chandrashekhar Singh said that raids were conducted under the leadership of district mining officer, the district transport officer and the additional sub-divisional magistrate Danapur. When the team reached near Koilwar Bridge, the officials were pelted with stones by anti-social elements. He said the district mining officer and two mining inspectors were injured in the incident and all three are undergoing treatment. Patna DM Chandrashekhar Singh said that he immediately sent SDO and SDPO, Danapur to the spot. "Intensive raids are being conducted against those who pelted stones. Legal action will be taken against all those who were involved in this incident," he said. (ANI)
The Rouse Avenue Court on Tuesday reserved the order on Delhi's Former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia's bail petition in connection with the Enforcement Directorate (ED), probing the alleged excise scam. The Special Judge MK Nagpal on Tuesday decided to reserve the order on the bail plea of Manish Sisodia and fixed April 26 for the pronouncement of the order. Appearing for Manish Sisodia, Senior Advocate Dayan Krishnan submitted that it is not the job of the ED to tell what happened in the GoM and the cabinet, the job of the ED should be to tell that if any crime was committed, and who benefited from it. The lawyer argued that Sisodia cannot be kept in custody only on the basis of speculations. Manish Sisodia's lawyer submitted that no money laundering case is made out against him. Enforcement Directorate has also opposed the bail plea and said, "an illegal ecosystem was created in view to give illegal benefits to liquor cartels to get kickbacks". Appearing for ED, Zohaib Hossain submitted before the Court that all the elements of conspiracy are present here in the matter. Conspiracy is hatched in secrecy, the policy made in the public domain, submitted ED lawyer and also said every process of activity dealing with proceeds of crime is money laundering. ED's lawyer further alleged that Sisodia played a key role in modifying and implementing the modified policy. "We have proof that the policy was modified without any deliberation and discussion. And we also have sufficient statements from various concerned persons to show that the profit margin increased from 6 per cent to 12 per cent was meant as kickbacks," ED said in the court. "In the matter, the expert committee suggested that individuals will apply and they will get two retail vends. This was to avoid cartelisation. This was supposed to happen through the lottery system but Manish Sisodia preferred the limited entity model," the central agency said. ED further asked that, if the policy was genuine, why were emails planted by Manish Sisodia in favour of the policy? Emails were planted through Minority Commission Chairman. Sisodia got emails planted on the mail address of excise depth which was the same address where the public comments were sought obverse the policy. Fabricated emails to show public approval for a policy. "This is a sham approval," ED alleged. On Sisodia's wife's health, ED submitted that other people and family were taking care of his wife for a long. "While he was holding 18 portfolios and was holding public meetings, there were other people attending to his wife. The humanitarian ground can't be used here," ED's counsel said. Earlier, appearing for Manish Sisodia, Advocate Vivek Jain argued that no PMLA case has been made against him. "Section 45 of PMLA would come against me only if an offence under Section 3 is made out," Sisodi said, through his lawyer. "ED's reply opposing my bail doesn't even show I have concealed any proceeds of crime or acquired any proceeds of crime, or I projected proceeds of crime. Not a single rupee has come into my account or my family's account. They have raided my home, and they have checked my bank accounts. They even have gone to my native place," Advocate Vivek Jain argued. Manish Sisodia was physically produced before the Court on Tuesday during the arguements of his bail plea. The Rouse Avenue Court was hearing a bail plea of Delhi's former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in a money laundering case pertaining to alleged irregularities in the framing and implementation of the excise policy of GNCTD. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on March 9 arrested former Delhi deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia in the liquor policy case, after hours of questioning at Tihar Jail. Sisodia was arrested by the ED case in the liquor policy case on March 9, 2023. Sisodia was arrested by the CBI earlier in its ongoing investigation of a case related to alleged irregularities in the framing and implementation of the now-scrapped excise policy of the National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD). (ANI)
Second meeting of G-20 Health Working Group held in Goa from April 17-19, 2023, is being attended by participants from the G-20 member countries, invited countries and international organisations. During course of HWG meeting, Minister for Health & Family Welfare Mansukh Mandaviya visited one Jan Aushadhi Kendra at Governor Pestana Road, Panjim, Goa along with G-20 delegates from Oman, Japan, Russia, Nigeria Singapore, Malaysia and delegates from UNICEF and Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. The Minister interacted with the Janaushadhi Kendra owner, Prabha Menon a woman entrepreneur, who shared her experience of operating the Kendra. Minister gave an overview of the program and addressed various queries of the delegates on functioning of the scheme. Several delegates expressed interest to have the program implemented in their respective countries. The Government is working towards a model of assisting the countries from middle income and low middle income countries who have shown interest in the scheme. Recently the program's success was showcased before a gathering of Resident Heads of Mission of more than 90 countries stationed in Delhi in cooperation with the Ministry of External Affairs. During the visit, Minister also mentioned that the Government does not view the pharmaceutical sector as a sector for generating commerce but as a sector to create global public good. As per Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers "Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana" is a popular public welfare scheme implemented by the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, Government of India, which has made significant impact to the lives of common people by providing quality medicines at an affordable price, which are generally 50 pc-90 pc less costly than branded medicines. "During last nine years, there has been 100 times growth in number of Kendras from only 80 in 2014 to more than 9,300 Kendras. The product basket has also been expanded to 1,800 medicines and 285 surgical devices"Ministry added Ministry further said that during past nine years, total savings have been estimated at approximately more than Rs. 20,000 crores for the citizens. (ANI)
A petitioner on Tuesday argued before the Supreme Court that LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning) community should not be stigmatised but assimilated with society by allowing marriage equality. During the hearing, the court remarked that the present matter shall be restricted to the Special Marriage Act and not interfere with personal laws. Senior Advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for one of the petitioners said that the members of the LGBTQ+ shall not be stigmatised and should be assimilated within the society. The assimilation of members of the LGBTQ+ will only happen after state accepts the same-sex marriage, the lawyer argued. A five-judge Constitution Bench headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud and comprising justices Sanjay Kishan Kaul, Ravindra Bhat, Hima Kohli and P.S. Narasimha was hearing a batch of petitions pertaining to 'marriage equality rights for LGBTQAI+ community'. Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta submitted that Hindus and Muslims will be affected and stressed that states should be heard while deciding the issue. SG Mehta said that the legislative intent throughout has been that marriage is between a biological man and a biological woman. CJI DY Chandrachud remarked that the very notion of a biological man is absolute which is inherent. SG Mehta responded that biological man means biological man and there is no notion. But CJI remarked that there is no such thing as an absolute concept of biological man and woman. SG Mehta's submission was made while he was stressing SC to hear the first Centre application which raised preliminary issues to the present petitions and said that question pending before the top court Bench is to deal with the creation of a socio-legal relationship of marriage. SG Mehta said that this is in the domain of the legislature. SG Mehta also submitted that there is no legal lacuna in the transgender act and apprised that there is a clarification that none will discriminate against transgender persons. SG Tushar Mehta said that there are provisions of reservation for transgender Senior Advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for one of the petitioners, submitted that the top court in various judgements such as Navtej Singh Johar vs Union of India and KS Puttaswamy vs Union of India have already recognised the rights of the members of the LGBTQ+ community. The petitioner's lawyer urged the top court that the Supreme Court should now provide positive rights by granting the declaration of marriage equality rights to all people including to same-sex couples. The members of the LGBTQ+ shall not be stigmatised and should be assimilated within society. The assimilation of members of the LGBTQ+ will only happen after state accepts the same-sex marriage, the lawyer argued. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for one of the intervening applicants, raised the question that what will happen to the adopted child or other various things if the marriage breaks down between the same-sex couple. Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal said these issues cannot be done in piecemeal. He pointed out that it is a very complex issue which will have ramifications. Senior advocate Rohatgi argued about the Roman emperor Nero who married twice, two men, at that time. He also apprised the court about widow remarriage which was earlier not accepted by society. Countering the Centre's submission, senior advocate Rohatgi said that the choice of an individual is not an "elitist concept" but it is innate and people are born with it like Nero. Senior Advocate Rohatgi said it can not be criminalized but same-sex couples are being stigmatized. Advocate Rohtagi made further submissions that the rights of people of the LGBTQAI+ community are already envisaged in the Constitution of India as well as by the top Court over time. He submitted that the top Court is not expected to reinvent the wheel, and rather only seeks an affirmative declaration of rights which are already held to be enshrined within the conspectus of the Constitution in a catena of decisions. Rohatgi urged the Court that it is the conscience keeper of the Constitution of India and it cannot be a defence for the State to contend that the Petitioners should await appropriate legislation by the Parliament on the issue. The matter, which is being heard day-to-day, will continue hearing the matter on Wednesday. (ANI)
"The alleged two gang rape accused with two others broke into the house, burnt it and beat the family members," the rape survivor's mother alleged.

Earlier in 2021, the minor girl who is a resident of a village in the Maurawan police station area was allegedly raped by five people in the village. The Maurawan police registered a case against Roshan, Satish, Arun, Ranjit, and Aman for gang rape and registered a case under POSCO Act.

"Aman and Satish, who were released on bail from jail a month ago, along with his colleagues reached home on Monday evening and pressured us to withdraw the case," the victim's mother said.

According to Santosh Kumar Singh, Purwa, Circle officer, "Two infants, including the seven-month-old son of the survivor and a two-month-old daughter of her relative sustained burns injuries and are undergoing treatment at the hospital."

"The police have registered the FIR on the complaint of the victim under the relevant IPC sections," Purwa, Circle officer said.

Efforts are on to arrest the accused," he added.

Further investigation is underway. (ANI)
Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra, who challenged the release of 11 convicts of rape and murder in the Bilkis Bano case, on Tuesday said central and Gujarat governments were in contempt as they did not produce the files in court. "Delaying tactic on the part of central government and Gujarat government. They were clearly in contempt as they did not produce the files (regarding remission)," Moitra told reporters here. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Tuesday said that "unequals cannot be treated equally" while stating that the plight of Bilkis Bano, who was gang-raped and her family members were murdered during the 2002 Godhra riots, cannot be compared to the murder of single person.A bench of Justices KM Joseph and BV Nagarathna observed that the way the offence was committed is "horrendous". "Crimes are generally committed against society, and the community. So when you give remission... You cannot compare the victim's plight with standard 302 (murder) cases. Unequals cannot be treated equally," Justice Joseph said. "See, more than 1100 days of parole... 1200 days, virtually three years..1000 days....1400 days... 1500 days on parole? Is that even available to an ordinary citizen? What policy have you been following?" the bench said while reading the details of parole granted to the convicts.Senior advocate Sidharth Luthra, appearing for one of the convicts, contended, "One is normal parole for a month. Other is this court said that during Covid parole must be granted. Just because it is gruesome crime convict should spend more time is contrary to law, Luthra added. Inquiring from the Gujarat government about the reasons behind its decision to allow the premature release of 11 life convicts in the Bilkis Bano case, the bench said when remission is considered in such heinous crimes affecting the society at large, the power must be exercised keeping in mind public interest. Just because the Central government concurred with the state does not mean state is not required to apply its mind, the apex court told Additional Solicitor General SV Raju appearing for the Gujarat government. "The question is whether government applied its mind, what material formed the basis of its decision, etc. Law is clear. Just because Union has approved does not mean state not required to apply mind. What material formed the basis of this decision? They were released by executive order... Today it is this lady (Bilkis). Tomorrow, it can be you or me. There must be objective standards... If you don't give us reason, we will draw our own conclusions," the bench observed. The observation of the bench came after ASG Raju claimed privilege over the files relating to the grant of remission to the convicts and said governments are likely to seek a review of the March 27 order whereby original files of the remission were sought. The apex court was hearing pleas filed by Bilkis Bano and other challenging the pre-mature release of 11 convicts. The bench has now posted the matter for final disposal on May 2 and granted time till May 1 to the governments to decide if they wish to file a review. Besides filing petition against pre-mature release of convicts, Bano had also filed a review petition seeking a review of its earlier order by which it had asked the Gujarat government to consider the plea for the remission of one of the convicts.The review petition was dismissed. Some PILs were filed seeking directions to revoke the remission granted 11 convicts.The pleas were filed by the National Federation of Indian Women, whose General Secretary is Annie Raja, Member of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) Subhashini Ali, journalist Revati Laul, social activist and professor Roop Rekha Verma and TMC MP Mahua Moitra. Gujarat government in its affidavit had defended remission granted to convicts saying they completed 14 years sentence in prison and their "behaviour was found to be good".The State government had said it has considered the cases of all 11 convicts as per the policy of 1992 and remission was granted on August 10, 2022 and Central government government also approved the release of convicts. It is pertinent to note that the remission was not granted under the circular governing grant of remission to prisoners as part of celebration of "Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav", it had said. The affidavit had stated, "State government considered all the opinions and decided to release 11 prisoners since they have completed 14 years and above in prisons and their behaviour was found to be good." The government had also questioned the locus standi of petitioners who filed the PIL challenging the decision saying they are outsiders to the case. The pleas said they have challenged the order of competent authority of the government of Gujarat by way of which 11 persons who were accused in a set of heinous offences committed in Gujarat were allowed to walk free on August, 15, 2022, pursuant to remission being extended to them.The remission in this heinous case would be entirely against public interest and would shock the collective public conscience, as also be entirely against the interests of the victim (whose family has publicly made statements worrying for her safety), pleas stated. The Gujarat government had released the 11 convicts, who were sentenced to life imprisonment, on August 15. All the 11 life-term convicts in the case were released as per the remission policy prevalent in Gujarat at the time of their conviction in 2008. In March 2002 during the post-Godhra riots, Bano was allegedly gang-raped and left to die with 14 members of her family, including her three-year-old daughter. She was five months pregnant when rioters attacked her family in Vadodara. (ANI)
The Chamoli district administration in Uttarakhand will take stringent action against eateries that overcharge pilgrims during Chardham Yatra. District Magistrate of Chamoli Himanshu Khurana has constituted a committee and issued orders for regular inspections of eateries. "During the Chardham Yatra, strict action will be taken against the hotel and dhaba owners who charge more than the fixed price from the pilgrims and sell adulterated food items on the Badrinath and Hemkund Yatra route," said the order issued by the district magistrate said. Char Dham yatra commences on April 22 and it is on the auspicious day of Akshay Tritiya. The doors of Kedarnath Dham will open for devotees on April 25 and Badrinath Dham on April 27. On April 13 Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Sing Dhami told ANI that the state government had made all arrangements to ensure that everyone's Char Dham Yatra is smooth. "All the preparations for Char Dham Yatra have been completed. More than 12 lakh people have registered, and we have made all arrangements to ensure that everyone's journey is smooth," CM Dhami saidUttarakand officials also said that health services are being improved for the pilgrims and several health ATMs have also been set up on the Yatra route. "Health services are being improved on the Yatra route, and the number of Health ATMs will be increased in the coming time. The officer was directed to run an intensive checking campaign of food items in various hotels, dhabas and restaurants by forming a team on the travel route coming under Pauri district," Uttarakhand Health Secretary Dr R Rajesh Kumar said "50 health ATMs have been set up by Hewlett Packard Enterprises under CSR in various medical units identified in Garhwal division on the Yatra route for health screening pilgrims. Parameters like blood pressure, sugar level, body temperature, oxygen content, body fat, 70 free tests including index, dehydration, and pulse rate will be done," he further added. (ANI)
G20 delegates on Tuesday took part in a Yoga session in Panaji Goa, on the second day of the second Health Working Group (HWG) meeting under India's G20 presidency. Union Minister of State for Health and family welfare Dr Bharati Pravin Pawar participated and appealed to everyone to practise yoga. "I appeal to everyone to practise Yoga each day for a healthy life," said Dr Bharati Pravin Pawar. The three-day Health Working Group began on Monday. According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, more than 180 delegates from 19 G20 member countries, 10 invited states and 22 international organizations are participating in the meeting. The second HWG meeting will have thematic discussions on three priorities identified under the G20 Health Track. The first priority is Health Emergencies Prevention, Preparedness and Response with a focus on One Health and AMR (antimicrobial resistance). The second is Strengthening Cooperation in Pharmaceutical Sector with a focus on access and availability to safe, effective, quality and affordable medical countermeasures (vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics). The third priority includes Digital Health Innovations and Solutions to Aid Universal Health Coverage and Improve Healthcare Service Delivery, said the official statement. Several cultural programmes infused with flavours of Goan culture have been planned for the event to showcase India's rich diversity and culture based on the Indian philosophy of 'Atithi Devo Bhava'. Delegates will also be able to experience Goa's culinary culture, besides enjoying its scenic beauty and generous hospitality, the statement said. (ANI)
The entrepreneurial spirit is embedded in the cultural and economic milieu of India and over the past decade, these inclinations have only boomed. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of "a new India that taps on the entrepreneurial potential of its people" is coming to fruition with the country now becoming the world's third-largest startup ecosystem. The startup is a force to be reckoned with in this direction. The importance of startups in the ecosystem has multiplied with their capacity in addressing societal issues. Right from reducing plastic waste in the oceans, startups have invaded all aspects of human life. India's story started with 452 startups in 2016 and this number has now spiked to over 84,000. Back in 2011, the concept of a unicorn - a privately held venture-capital-backed startup company with a value of over USD 1 billion - was rare. Today, India boasts more than 100 unicorns with a cumulative valuation of over USD 350 billion. From technological advancements and government support to a change in the mindset of the youth and the availability of funding opportunities, myriad factors have sustained the country's startup fever. Technology has since become the single biggest enabler for startups - a boom in entrepreneurship was recorded even during the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 when digital adoption surged like never before. Artificial intelligence, cloud computing, blockchain and other emerging technologies have given startups more tools at their disposal to start and grow their businesses, explore innovation and cut costs. There are nearly 27,000 active tech startups in the country, which are expected to continue increasing innovation and deep-tech adoption, particularly in areas related to Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) that require complex solutions. The deep-tech ecosystem in India is growing fast, with about 19 per cent of Indian startups in the deep-tech space. Several of them are leveraging technology to help the country achieve sustainability goals inthe long run. For instance, String Bio leverages fermentation technology, chemistry and process engineering, and synthetic biology to produce high-quality next-generation ingredients for the animal nutrition, agriculture, human nutrition, and personal care sectors. It is the only company in Asia that has enabled a methane-based value chain through biological processes. To empower the nation's defence and security, in November 2019, the Indian government said that it was looking to fund at least 250 defence startups over the next 5 years to come up with new cutting-edge solutions for the armed forces. The Ministry of Defence also earmarked Rs 5 billion for its innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) initiative, launched in April 2018, to find new technologies to help the Indian armed forces. The government has taken many other steps to support the startup ecosystem: the Startup India initiative, launched in 2016, offers various benefits and incentives to startups, including tax exemptions, funding support and a simplification of regulatory processes. During the year, the Fund for Startups Scheme was also approved and established with a corpus of Rs 100 billion to provide a much-needed boost to the Indian startup ecosystem and enable access to domestic capital. The Atal Innovation Mission promotes innovation and entrepreneurship among students and young professionals. It provides funding and support to incubators, accelerators, and startups in various sectors. Measures have also been taken to offer several tax incentives, simplify labor laws, and relax norms for intellectual property rights. The country's rapidly growing youth population works in its favour. The younger generation in India is increasingly building a culture that values innovation, risk-taking, and entrepreneurship. The rise of social media and the internet has made it easier to access information about successful entrepreneurs and connect with other like-minded individuals. Advances in technology have made it easier than ever to start a business with minimalupfront costs. Now it is easier to build a brand or create a market without the need for significant capital investment using social media also. All these have created a change in the mindset of the youth, who are more willing tomove away from corporate jobs and start their own businesses. According to Sanjay Nath, co-founder and managing partner of Blume Ventures, "Indian entrepreneurs never lacked imagination. But, in the last 10 years, the best talent was always limited to corporations. Now, that gap is being bridged. This reverse flow of talent is the most inspiring thing about the B2B startup sector right now." India also ranked fifth in terms of investments received by startups offering artificial intelligence-based products and services in 2022, according to Stanford University's Annual AI Index report. Startups are categorized as 'high-risk' by banks, which can pose challenges on the investment front. However, government efforts to relax foreign direct investment (FDI) norms have helped boost VC funding and foreign investment. Large global VCs and hedge funds, including Tiger Global, Sequoia Capital, Accel, and SoftBank are known for backing and creating unicorns such as Ola Cabs and OYO. With increasing confidence in startups and their visions, domestic VC firms have also started to increase their funding outflow. For instance, Bengaluru-based Elevation Capital, which has around 126 investments in India and overseas, made investments worth USD 1 billion across 26 deals in 2022 into the country's tech startups, compared with USD 527 million across 38 dealsin 2021. India started new engagement with the setting up of 'Startup20' under its G20 Presidency. With this, the G20 is appropriately directing its attention towards the startup paradigm that has brought about global disruption in industries, systems and platform, focussing on cooperation in economic and social systems. The group is expected to agree on a common definition for the startups by July which would enable effective policy-making across the globe, potentially resolving current challenges faced in valuation and taxation. With these developments, the Indian ecosystem for startups continues to grow strong. Startups across diverse sectors, including healthcare, deep tech, climate and energy are contributing significantly in driving India's economic growth and building its innovation capabilities. Thesedevelopments will go a long way in making India a significant global player across various sectors. (ANI)
Taking suo moto cognizance of a report of yet another death of an inmate at a private drug de-addiction centre, which is the third such incident in the recent past, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Tuesday issued a notice to the Centre, States and Union Territories over the reported deaths of inmates due to alleged torture in private drug de-addiction centres. The NHRC has issued notices, returnable in four weeks, to the Chief Secretaries of all the States/Union Territories (UTs), and the Secretary of the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. "The authorities are to report regarding how many de-addiction centres are presently available with the Government Sector, can private entities be allowed to set up the centres, are there any rules or regulations framed under the NDPS Act to regulate these centres as mandated in Section 71 of NDPS Act, what is the mechanism for providing training to the persons employed in such centres and specify the mechanisms to regulate private de-addiction centres including charges/fees, employment of staff, counsellor, medical staff, food supplied and overall upkeep of such rehabilitation centres", reads the statement. Prior to this, the Commission had taken suo moto cognizance of two similar incidents at de-addiction Centres in Uttar Pradesh's Noida and Ghaziabad and the reports have been sought, the statement said. "All three rehabilitation centres, two in UP and one in Uttarakhand were being run by private entities. It needs serious consideration as to whether the De-addiction Centres can be allowed to be operated by private entities, and if it is so, whether State(s) have ensured sufficient safety measures in place to protect the interest of the inmates with a view to achieving the desired goal", the Commission observed. The notices have also been issued to the Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police, Uttarakhand calling for a detailed report in the instant case of the death of an inmate at the Dehradun Rehab Centre. "The reports should include the present status of the investigation of the case and compensation and relief, if any, provided to the Next of kin of the deceased", the notice said. Reportedly, a 24-year-old man was beaten to death by the people running a de-addiction centre in the Chandramani area of Dehradun, Uttarakhand on April 10. According to a media report, carried on April 13, the patients of the Dehradun De-addiction Centre, said that their beatings were frequent and routine, as were hunger and lack of hygiene. No doctor or counsellor ever visited the centre, the report said. (ANI)
Union Home Minister Amit Shah will embark on a three-day visit to poll-bound Karnataka from April 21 as the state gears up for a fierce political battle in the month of May. Shah will be in Davanagere on April 21 and in Devanahalli on April 22. On the last leg of his tour, the Union Home Minister will visit the neighbouring state of Telangana for his Lok Sabha Pravas. Shah will hold roadshows in both Davanagere and Devanahalli. This will be Shah's first visit to Karnataka since the announcement of the polls last month. He is expected to attend Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) organisational meetings in the run-up to the polls. Sources said Shah will meet the top BJP leaders in the state and hold a core group meeting. Shah will also chair a meeting of the Election Campaign Committee and give his crucial inputs to the team. He is also likely to chair a meeting of the Election Management Committee. The major campaigns will begin after the date of withdrawal of nominations on April 24. Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai leads the Campaign Committee whereas Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje is the Convenor of the Election Management Committee. On April 23, evening Shah will make his Lok Sabha Pravas in Chevella Loksabha seat in Telangana. Notably, Telangana also goes to polls end of this year and winning the state assembly elections has been on the agenda for the BJP. So far Shah has visited more than 40 of the 160 Lok Sabha seats identified by BJP in line with the party's resolve to win the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Karnataka will go to Assembly elections on May 10 in a single phase and the counting of votes will be done on May 13. (ANI)
BJP has fielded Manikanta Rathod from the Chittapur constituency while Priyank M. Kharge, son of Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge is the sitting MLA from the Chittapur constituency.

BJP on Monday announced its third list of 10 candidates, earlier 1st and 2nd list of candidates was announced. Following the announcement, many party leaders resigned after their names remained missing from the list, including former Karnataka Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar and former deputy chief minister Laxman Savadi.

BJP has dropped Arvind Limbavali from Mahadevapura but has given a ticket to his wife Manula Aravind Limbavali. With the announcement of 10 more candidates, the BJP has so far declared 222 candidates out of 224 seats in the state assembly Arvind Chauhan

BJP state general secretary Mahesh Tenginkai has been chosen as the party candidate from Hubli- Dharwad (Central) assembly constituency which was previously held by Shettar, a six-time MLA and a former chief minister of Karnataka.

A senior BJP leader said that Mahesh Tenginkai is a dedicated party worker representing the same community as Jagdish Shettar. "The CEC has shown faith in him and is confident that he will come out victorious," a party leader told ANI. (ANI)
Under the PM Mega Integrated Textiles and Apparel (PM Mitra) scheme, the Uttar Pradesh government signed an MoU with the Government of India at Lok Bhawan in Lucknow for the establishment of 1,000-acres-wide textile parks in Lucknow and Hardoi districts. Expressing gratitude to the Prime Minister for choosing UP under the centre's ambitious PM Mega Integrated Textiles and Apparel (PM Mitra) scheme, Yogi said, "This move is a step towards re-establishing the UP's ancient glory and towards making the state the 'new textile hub' of the country." Stating that despite having a rich history, districts like Kanpur lost their sheen in the textile industry, with factories shutting down one after the other while handloom and powerlooms industries kept collapsing, the Chief Minister said that in the last six years, however, things have changed with UP being one of the biggest beneficiaries of PM Modi's vision. "As a result of the efforts in the last 6 years, the state received investment proposals worth over Rs 35 lakh crores and Team UP is moving forward with these programs in a time-bound manner to bring an investment of up to Rs 10 lakh crores on the ground," he said. Asserting that Uttar Pradesh today has the 'most favourable' environment to set up enterprises, CM Yogi Adityanath said that no mafia can spread terror in UP today and every district is now safe having its own identity and the government is capable of safeguarding the interests and the capital of the investors. Slamming previous governments for making UP infamous because of poor law and order situation, Yogi Adityanath said, "Prior to 2017, UP was known for riots and crime. Today, all districts in UP are witnessing growth and darkness in every way has been eliminated. The government is paving way for UP's development through airports, highways, and proper law and order situation." He said that those who were in 'trouble' for UP earlier, today are in 'trouble' themselves. "More than 700 riots took place in UP between 2012-17. Over 364 riots took place in UP between 2007-12 but not a single riot has taken place since 2017 till now," Yogi pointed out. On the occasion, Yogi said that UP has its own policy for Textiles and Garments, and the government is making every effort to take the state forward in terms of 'Ease of Doing Business'. "For power in the textile industry, Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation will work to provide a discount of two rupees per unit, as a part of our policy to encourage investors," he said. He said that the government is also taking innovative measures to strengthen youth in every field in UP. "For those who will be working in textile sector, an internship scheme has been taken out for them. This time there was a provision of PM Internship Scheme in the Union Budget as well and on the same lines the State Government has brought out an internship scheme of its own," he said. In the program, the MoU was exchanged between Rohit Kansal, Additional Secretary of Textile, Government of India and Amit Mohan Prasad, Additional Chief Secretary, of Handloom and Textile Industry, MSME, Government of Uttar Pradesh. This park is being developed in collaboration with the Central and State Governments, in which private participation will also take place. MoUs were also transferred among private investors Aditya Birla Group, M/s GSL Spinners Pvt Ltd, M/s Azum Denim Cart LNP, M/s Abhikim Textile Ltd, M/s SVM, M/s Josis India Pvt Ltd, M/s MLK Export Ltd and M/s Path Thread Pvt Ltd. Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry; Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution; and Textiles, Rakesh Sachan, Minister of MSME, Khadi, Village Industries, Sericulture, Textile, Darshana Vikram Jardosh, Union State Minister for Railways and Textiles, among other dignitaries, were present on the occasion. (ANI)
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Tuesday emphasized that IITs are aspiration hubs for the youth of the country and their students must aspire to become job creators. Pradhan chaired the 55th IIT Council meeting in Bhubaneswar. The chairman and directors of all IITs attended the meeting. Speaking on the occasion Pradhan said that IITs are aspirations hub for the youth of the country, and their students must aspire to become job creators. The Minister further emphasized that IITs shall primarily be a vehicle for public welfare. He said that the time has come to ensure that IITs become primary catalysts in the multi-fold development of the country. IITs should resolve societal problems at a scaleable and replicate commercially viable solutions. The Union Education further said that IITs should provide all support systems for students and should have zero tolerance for all kinds of discrimination. Students in IITs should be the face of new India with no discrimination and ready to be global citizens. In the context of the changing global scenario and the Prime Minister's vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat as a developed country by 2047, the council discussed the need for the development of the next 25 year vision for the IITs. The Council decided that each IIT shall deliberate with faculty, students and other stakeholders and finalize their long-term vision by next year. The council will also create a short-term strategy plan for the country's immediate needs. Dharmendra Pradhan said the research and development fair should be an annual recurring affair, done on fixed dates and should become a globally recognizable event and IP. Research and development fair should be open to all students from the country and where everyone can participate in challenges and competitions, bringing out the best among students. The council discussed on the ways that vacancies are filled at the earliest. They also discussed the positive impact of PM Research Fellowship and the proposal of an extension of the programme. With a view to having collaboration and research translation, the council discussed that it would be useful for IITs to have a closer engagement with public or private entities. Union Minister said we should ensure new young faculty get adequate support to spearhead research in the country. Director, IIT Gandhinagar presented the possible underlying societal, psychological and other health issues behind depression among students. The council discussed several steps needed to ensure the mental health and wellness of students at IITs. The council focussed on the need of a robust grievance redressal system, increasing psychological counselling services, reducing pressure and highlighting the importance of reducing fear of failure/rejection among students. The Minister expressed his pain regarding recent cases of suicides and called the directors to be proactive in providing all kind of support to students including developing a robust mechanism of zero tolerance for discrimination in institutes. The reasons for student dropouts were discussed in the council. The Minister asked for ensuring that the students should be allowed multiple options as per NEP 2020. Pradhan further directed the Higher Education department for further detailed reports and scheduling discussions on the matter. The Council also agreed to enhance support to SC/ST students. The Council also resolved to enhance the tenure of support to female PhD students for one more additional year. The council discussed the proposals to introduce 4 year BEd (ITEP) programme in IITs. The Minister emphasized that IITs can be torch bearers for bringing quality upgradation in teachers. The council discussed the measures to overcome language barriers to reach out to students of rural India and make teaching-learning available in regional languages including technological tools. The Council discussed and appreciated the efforts by several IITs to start multidisciplinary programmes. The Minister also exhorted to prepare a Vision 2047 for IITs. In this vision, he suggested that the IITs could think of preparing their students as job creators rather than job seekers. The Union Minister further highlighted the importance of developing a Digital library giving access to knowledge resources including our ancestral Indian scientific knowledge System to all the students and youth of the country.(ANI)
Delhi Commission for Women chief Swati Maliwal on Tuesday in a letter urged Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot to take immediate action against the man who flashed at a Korean vlogger in Rajasthan's Jodhpur and was caught in her camera. In the letter, Maliwal stated, "The Commission has learnt that a Korean vlogger was harassed by a man in a fort in Jodhpur. The girl was walking in the fort when a man allegedly followed her, exposed his private parts, and engaged in lewd behaviour. The girl ran, screamed, and appealed for help. The entire incident was captured on video and has been widely circulated on social media." "I strongly condemn such an act of sexual harassment and urge you to take immediate action against the perpetrator. I request you to ensure that a criminal complaint is filed against the man involved in this heinous act and that he is promptly arrested and brought to justice. I also urge you to take all necessary measures to ensure the safety and security of the survivor", Maliwal said in the letter. Maliwal also said that the incident was a grave violation of girls' rights and brought shame to the country, raising questions about women's safety and security in society. "This incident is not only a grave violation of the girl's rights but has also brought shame to our country, as it raises serious questions about the safety and security of women, both domestic and foreign nationals, in our society. As a nation, we cannot allow such acts of harassment and violence to occur and must take prompt and effective measures to ensure justice for the girl and prevent such incidents in the future", she said. Maliwal in her letter also asked the CM for support in providing the girl with all necessary assistance during the traumatic time. "Further, I request your full support in providing necessary assistance and support to the girl, a foreign national. It is important to ensure that she receives appropriate legal aid, counselling, and other necessary support during this traumatic time", Maliwal added. (ANI)
Delhi's Karkardooma court has convicted a father-son duo in connection with the 2020 North East Delhi riots case. Additional Sessions Judge (ASJ) Pulastya Pramachala of Karkardooma Court convicted Mithhan Singh and his son after considering the evidence and statement of witnesses in the matter. The court said that an unlawful assembly was formed with a common objective of attack upon the properties of persons belonging to the Muslim community. The father-son duo has been named with offences relating to rioting, destroying property by fire and being a member of unlawful assembly. "It is proved beyond doubt against both the accused namely Mithhan Singh and Jony Kumar that they were part of the mob which burnt the property in Delhi's Khajuri Khas during ongoing riots on February 25, 2020, " the court observed. Thus, they are held guilty of an offence punishable under Sections 147/148/436 read with Section 149 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and convicted accordingly, the court said in the judgement passed on April 17. The court said, "On the basis of evidence of prosecution witness Mohammed Tahir and Constable Rohtash, there remains no doubt that both accused persons were part of the mob at least when this mob was involved in the incident at Gali no. 4, Khajuri Khas." The court noted that the defence has not disputed that a mob indulged in riot, vandalism and arson in Gali no. 4 on February 25, 2020. Therefore, on the basis of evidence, it can be safely said that an unlawful assembly was formed, with the common object of attack upon the properties of persons belonging to the Muslim community. Accordingly, this mob indulged in vandalism and arson in Gali no. 4, Khajuri Khas, the court said. The present case was registered on March 3, 2020, on a written complaint by Shabana Khatoon. In her complaint, Shabana Khatoon alleged that in the riot on February 25, 2020, her rented house in Gali No.4, Khajuri Khas, near Fatima Masjid, was looted and set on fire. She further alleged that an amount of Rs 90,000 in cash, gold jewellery (2 tolas), and silver jewellery (500gm), were looted and all kinds of documents (identity proof, Diploma-Degree of children, Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, School Certificate as well as Registry document) were burnt. "Entire articles worth Rs 3 lakhs, kept in her aforesaid house, were looted and completely burnt", Khatoon alleged. During the investigation, SI Vipin received complaints from Mohammed Tahir on March 14, 2020, from Anjari Khatoon, Raju Sharma, and Julfikar Alam on March 15, 2020, and from Irfan and Tabassum Begum on March 21, 2020, regarding vandalism and arson in their houses in the aforesaid riot. All these complaints were clubbed with the present FIR. The accused persons were charge-sheeted by the police for having committed offences punishable under Sections 109/114/147/148/149/188/392/436 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). On November 20, 2021, charges were framed against accused Mithhan Singh for offences punishable under Sections 109/114/147/148/ 149/392/435/436 of the IPC and against accused Jony Kumar for offences punishable under Sections 147/148/149/392/435/436 of the IPC, to which they pleaded not guilty and claimed trial. It was argued by the counsel for both accused that neither Ct. Rohtash had made any call, nor did he give a statement before March 9, 2020. Being a beat officer, he did not make enquiries about rioters' names, the council said in the argument. It was further argued that Constable Rohtash mentioned Ct. Pradeep and Ct. Kalik accompanied him, but these two witnesses were cited as witnesses of arrest only in this case. In other cases, these two officials were cited as eyewitnesses of the incidents. The special public prosecutor (SPP) Naresh Kumar Gaur argued that Constable Rohtash explained in his cross-examination that both accused persons had not covered their faces, hence, he could see their faces and identify them. But, he did not know the accused persons. Prosecution witness Mohd. Tahir also supported the case of the prosecution. It was further argued that an order under Section 144 Cr.P.C. was in operation, but still the accused persons were moving around in the Gali, meeting rioters and raising slogans, which shows that they were members of the mob. "There was no occasion for Constable Rohtash to make a call at 100 or to make a recording of the incidents", argued the counsel. This matter pertains to the incident of rioting in Police Station Khajuri Khas area in February 2020. (ANI)
IAF chief Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari on Tuesday said that operations like Balakot have demonstrated that given the political will, aerospace power can be effectively used in a no-war, no-peace situation, under a nuclear overhang without escalating into a full-blown conflict. "This is very important, given the nature of our adversaries. The response options available to the leadership have suddenly increased and increasingly, air power has become an option of choice due to inherent flexibility and unmatched precision strike capability," the IAF chief said. Air Chief Marshal Chaudhari was speaking at the Marshal of the Air Force Arjan Singh Memorial Seminar 'Aerospace power: Pivot to future battlespace operations'. The Balakot airstrikes were carried out in February 2019 by Indian Air Force after the Pulwama terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir. The IAF chief said that the foremost lesson that can be drawn from the twentieth century and indeed the early twenty-first century is that no war can be successfully prosecuted without aerospace power. He cited the words of Field Marshal Montgomery, 'If we lose war in the air, we lose the war and lose it quickly'. "There are a few very pertinent words in the theme of the seminar which need a bit more study. The first being 'Pivot'. Pivot translates to Fulcrum, which is defined as a thing that plays a central or essential role in an activity, event or situation. The other words that need more study are 'Future Battlespace Operations'. "Over the last few decades, the understanding of a military operational environment has significantly transformed from primarily a force, time and space-driven linear battlefield to a system of systems capable of simultaneous, parallel and independent operations across multiple domains," the IAF chief said. He said the traditional battlefield has long left the lexicon of modern strategists and what is increasingly being used is battlespace in the land, sea, air, cyber and space domains. "When we bring all these words together, it broadly gives a contour of things to come in the next few decades. Call it a reveille bugle or a heralding trumpet, we must acknowledge that the wars of the future will be fought differently. Adversaries will use lethal as well as non-lethal weapons, wars will be fought across multiple domains and will not distinguish between combatants and non-combatants," he said. The IAF chief said the future battlespace will be increasingly complex characterised by heavy dependence on technology, asymmetric nature of threats, increased fog and friction, expanded battlespaces, high tempo of operations, enhanced lethality, compressed sensor to shooter cycles and media scrutiny. "So, what does aerospace power bring to the table in order to be labelled as a Pivot? Attributes of high speed, reduced response time, long reach, increased mobility, technological intensity, precision firepower, shock effect, ability to operate across domains and network centric operations have made aerospace power a formidable component of our nation's military might," he said. (ANI)
After Supreme Court's direction, former Indian Premier League (IPL) chairman Lalit Modi on Tuesday tendered his apology for his remarks against the judiciary on social media. In his statement, Lalit Modi said, "I hereby tender this unconditional public apology for my social media post, dated January 13, 2023, and my tweet dated March 30, 2023. I reiterate that I have the highest regard for the Indian Judicial System and the majesty of the Courts, and I will not do anything which is inconsistent with the majesty or dignity of the Courts or the Indian Judiciary, in any manner." "I reiterate that I do not, and did not, have the remotest intention of denigrating or lowering the Indian Judiciary's image or public estimation, which I hold in the highest regard and esteem," he added. The Supreme Court last week directed former Indian Premier League (IPL) chairman Lalit Modi to tender an unconditional apology on social media platforms and national newspapers for his remarks against the judiciary. A bench of Justices MR Shah and CT Ravikumar slammed Modi for his remarks and warned him that any repeat of such conduct will be viewed "very seriously". The bench observed that Modi is not above the law and the institution and also directed him to file an affidavit before it tenders an apology. The affidavit has to state that no such posts on social media will be made in future which would be tantamount, even remotely, to tarnishing the image of the Indian judiciary, the apex court said. While posting the matter for hearing on April 24, the bench said that it has gone through the counter affidavit filed by Modi and it was not at all satisfied with the explanation given.Senior advocate CU Singh had filed the contempt plea against Modi saying he made a tweet on March 30, 2023 which tarnished the image of judiciary and made scandalous remarks against judges. Earlier, the apex court while hearing an application in connection with remarks made by Modi against senior advocate and former Attorney General Mukul Rohatgi had orally observed that lawyers should not be involved in a family outburst. It had orally instructed Lalit Modi's counsel senior advocate Harish Salve to use his 'good office' and advise his client to take 'remedial measures'. Salve had told the bench that the post made against Rohatgi has been taken down.Lalit Modi had made some comments on the Instagram post about Rohatgi. Later, through another post, he reportedly apologised to the senior advocate. Former Attorney General and senior advocate Rohatgi is one of the counsels representing Bina Modi, mother of Lalit Modi, in the vexatious property dispute. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for Bina Modi, had submitted that there was an undertaking that there would be no posts while mediation was going on. On January 19, the apex court agreed to examine a plea alleging former IPL chairman Lalit Modi made some "scurrilous" remarks in a social media post against Rohatgi and the judiciary. In August 2022, the apex court-appointed former top court judge Justice RV Raveendran as a mediator to settle the family property dispute involving the former IPL head and his mother Bina Modi, wife of late industrialist KK Modi. (ANI)
A promising sign for peace and stability, Wheat harvesting has begun along the international border in Jammu and Kashmir's Gajnisu sector, as the year-long India-Pakistan border ceasefire has created a peaceful atmosphere. The Agriculture Department's seed multiplication farm, located on the zero line in the Golpatan Chinor area, about 55 km from Jammu, is spread over 2,300 acres of land on both sides of the border fence, where men and machines are working diligently. "We have started harvesting the wheat crop in this field. Our harvest is ready, and it will take us a few days to complete the harvest in this field," said Kuldeep Raj, the manager of Seed Multiplication Farm in Channoor. Raj further added that a total of 2,290 acres of land spread on both sides of the border fence is being harvested. Once the harvesting on this side is completed, they will move on to harvest across the fence in 280 acres with the assistance of the Border Security Force (BSF). He emphasized the importance of cultivating and harvesting land beyond the fence. The ceasefire, announced by both armies in a joint statement on February 25, has rekindled hopes for a peaceful future among border residents who have been living in constant fear of cross-border shelling in Jammu and Kashmir. The Seed Multiplication Farm, operated by the Government of Jammu and Kashmir, is one of the largest farms in the Jammu region, producing high yielding seeds for distribution to farmers under the Samagra Krishi Vikas Yojana. The farm also grows oats, potatoes, mustard, and other crops on 200 acres of land. This peaceful harvesting along the Indo-Pak border in Jammu is not only a positive development for the farmers but also a promising sign for fostering peace and stability in the region. (ANI)
Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai on Tuesday, reacting to some BJP leaders' decision to switch to the Congress, said the grand old party is a sinking ship, and "had they stayed with the saffron party, would have reached the shore". Bommai said this while referring to the exit of former chief minister Jagadish Shettar and ex-deputy chief minister Laxman Savadi. Both the former BJP leaders would be contesting the May 10 Karnataka Assembly polls on Congress ticket. Addressing a public meeting in Bagalkot after holding a roadshow in support of the BJP candidate and cabinet minister Govind Karjol, he said the people's response towards the BJP has been tremendous. The chief minister said the Congress leaders made promises on the Krishna River issue but did nothing. "They cheated the people of the northern Karnataka region. Differentiation was done in the payment of compensation to those who lost land. Govind Karjol had to come as Water Resources Minister to pay the compensation to farmers. "The Cabinet Sub-Committee constituted by him had resolved to pay equal compensation to everyone and something had been followed. The development of Mudhol taluk has been taken up through the implementation of lift irrigation schemes," Bommai said. --IANS mka/pgh ( 218 Words) 2023-04-18-19:14:03 (IANS)
The leader of the opposition in West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, claimed on Tuesday that immediately after the Election of Commission of India (ECI) withdrew the national party status of Trinamool Congress, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee rang up Home Minister Amit Shah with a plea to retain Trinamool's national party status until the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. "Soon after ECI's decision to withdraw the national party status of Trinamool Congress, the Chief Minister called up the Home Minister. During that telephonic conversation, she had appealed to Amit Shah to retain Trinamool's national party status till the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. "However, the Home Minister clearly told her that commission's decision cannot be reverted by him since ECI is an autonomous body," Adhikari said while addressing a rally at Singur in Hooghly district. Till the time of filing of this report, no reaction came from the Chief Minister to Adhikari's claims. However, Trinamool spokesman Kunal Ghosh rubbished the claims made by Adhikari, saying: "These are blatant attempts to spread falsehood by a traitor who along with his family members emerged in the political scenario of the state as by-products of the movement led by Mamata Banerjee against forceful land acquisition in Singur and Nandigram." Earlier, speaking at Singur, Adhikari launched a scathing attack against Mamata Banerjee for her movement that ultimately forced Tata Motors to withdraw its Nano car project from Singur. "She (Banerjee) destroyed the employment dreams of several youths by driving away the Tatas. If BJP comes to power in West Bengal, it will bring back the Tata Group to Singur and give them a red-carpet welcome," Adhikari said. --IANS src/arm ( 289 Words) 2023-04-18-21:04:04 (IANS)
On February 26, 2019, the Indian Air Force (IAF) had launched air strikes on terror camps in Pakistans Balakot in retaliation to the attack on a CRPF convoy in J&K's Pulwama, which left 40 personnel dead. IAF chief V.R. Chaudhary said on Tuesday that the 2019 air strikes in Balakot demonstrated that if political will is there, aerospace power can be effectively used in a no war, no peace' scenario, under a nuclear overhang without allowing the situation to escalate into a full-blown conflict. He also said that future wars would need the capability of seeing first' followed by the ability to strike first' and then striking the farthest'. The IAF chief was speaking at a seminar on 'Aerospace Power: Pivot to Future Battlespace Operations', organised by the Centre for Air Power Studies (CAPS) in the memory of the first and only Marshal of the Indian Air Force, Arjan Singh. The conference was an ode to Arjan Singh, who was the Chief of Air Staff when the IAF saw action in its first conflict of the modern age in 1965. He was hardly 44 when entrusted with the responsibility of leading the Indian Air Force, which he did with flamboyance and elan. According to the IAF, the seminar aimed to explore the changing nature of aerospace power and its role in future battlespace operations. As technological advancements continue to reshape the landscape of warfare, the aerospace domain has become increasingly important for achieving military objectives. In memory of the first and only Marshal of the Indian Air Force, the Centre for Air Power Studies (CAPS) decided to commence an annual memorial lecture in his honour to inspire the present and future generation proponents of air power. The seminar examined the 'Peculiarities of Air Power Operations' in the past and outlined the need for multi-domain operations as an inseparable entity in future battlespace operations. As the world becomes increasingly complex and volatile, military operations require a more integrated and multi-dimensional approach that leverages the full spectrum of aerospace capabilities. Aerospace power will play a critical role in future conflicts, providing key advantages in intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, command and control, and strike capabilities, the IAF added. The session discussed the evolving nature of aerospace power, including emerging technologies, strategies, and the challenges and opportunities associated with integrating these capabilities into broader military operations. The seminar also examined the Key Trends and Technologies in the Aerospace Domain' and outlined the implications of these trends for aerospace power. --IANS gcb/arm ( 435 Words) 2023-04-18-21:26:02 (IANS)
A man in Bihar's Muzaffarpur district shot dead his pregnant wife after his demand of for a SUV was not met by her family, and her angry parents and relatives cremated her dead body in front of his house, police said on Tuesday. The deceased, Kajal Kumari, had a love marriage with Aakash Mahto 6 month ago and her parents gave a dowry and a car as per their financial capacity. After a few months, Mahto demanded a Thar SUV which her family was unable to afford. However, he stayed adamant on his demand and also threatened her parents several times that he would kill her if his demand would not meet. Mahto shot his wife on Monday night and fled from the spot. After learning about the incident, her family members reached there. The police were also informed and the dead body was sent for a post-mortem examination. After the post-mortem examination was conducted in Sadar hospital, Kajal's family took the dead body to the accused's house at Motipur village and cremated her in front of the door. "We have registered an FIR on a written complaint lodged by the deceased's mother Neelam Devi. She alleged that Aakash Mahto, his father Vijay Mahto, mother Rajpati Devi, sister Priya Kumari alias Guthi Kumari, two friends Vishal Kumar and Chandrashekher Kumar were involved in the murder of Kajal," Muzaffarpur's DSP, West, Abhishek Anand said. The complainant also alleged that the accused was involved in illegal works and Kajal was objecting to it. "We are conducting raids to arrest the accused. They are absconding now," Anand said. "Keeping in view of the seriousness of the incident, we have deployed a large number of police forces at the village. The cremation was done in front of the police. The force was deployed as a precautionary measure to prevent any untoward incident," he added. Earlier, a dead body of a girl was cremated in front of her boyfriend's house in a village that comes under Kanti police station as well. --IANS ajk/vd ( 351 Words) 2023-04-18-22:16:03 (IANS)
The Pakistan National Assembly on Monday rejected a motion seeking a supplementary sum of Rs 21 billion for elections in Punjab, Dawn reported. The Pakistan Supreme Court last week directed the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) to "allocate and release" Rs 21 bn by April 17 for elections in two provinces from the Federal Consolidated Fund (FCF) "lying under its control and management". The apex court had also instructed the central bank to send an "appropriate communication" to this effect to the finance ministry in this regard, the Dawn said. A meeting of the National Assembly's Standing Committee on Finance and Revenue was called earlier on Monday to discuss the SC order regarding the disbursement of funds. A press release issued after the meeting stated that the Committee had unanimously recommended the Finance Division that the matter of releasing funds be placed before the NA "in the form of a bill through the federal cabinet" in order to comply with the top court's orders. A meeting of the federal cabinet was held later in the day wherein the government decided that the summary sent by the finance ministry, based on the recommendations made by the NA body, would be referred back to Parliament, the Dawn reported. "The federal cabinet has referred a summary by the finance ministry, based on recommendations made by the NA Standing Committee on Finance and Revenue on providing the election commission with funds for elections in Punjab and KP, to Parliament," a handout issued by the Prime Minister's Office said. The matter was then raised in a session of the NA held after the cabinet meeting. During the session, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar said that the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), in exercise of its power, had delayed polls in Punjab till October citing the lack of finances and the security situation, Dawn reported. "In such economic circumstances if elections are held again and again for the sake of one man's ego, it is not in the country's interest," he said, according to Dawn. He went on to say that the federal government, in light of SC's directives, had presented a bill in the lower house of parliament for treating the funds required as a "charged expenditure". "But this House after thorough deliberations, rejected the bill," Tarar further said. He noted that the SBP was directed by the SC to transfer Rs 21 bn to the ECP from the FCF but added that under the Constitution only the lower house of Parliament could give the approval for doing so. He said that the NA standing committee had told the Finance Division to take this matter to the cabinet which then referred the matter to the NA which had the authority to approve or disapprove additional expenses under Articles 82 (2) and 84 of the Constitution, according to Dawn. He then presented a motion seeking a supplementary sum of Rs 21 bn to meet the expenditures for elections in Punjab. The motion was subsequently rejected by the House and the NA session was later adjourned till noon tomorrow (Tuesday). (ANI)
Separatist rebels in Indonesia's Papua region said that they have killed at least 13 Indonesian soldiers after the army troops were sent to search for captured New Zealand pilot, Phillip Mehrtens, who was taken hostage in February, CNN reported. The West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) according to CNN said its soldiers attacked two Indonesian military posts in the Yal and Mugi districts in Nduga Regency over the weekend. The CCN said that according to a statement, rebels shot dead 13 Indonesian military and police officials in the Mugi district. One body had been evacuated by the Indonesian military, but rebels were still in possession of 12 bodies, the statement added, without providing proof. Indonesia's military in a televised press conference on Sunday said one of their soldiers had been killed while combing the area near where pilot Mehrtens is believed to be held. The military confirmed that some soldiers were missing but the weather had made it difficult to determine their whereabouts. "We know the location of the pilot, the operation has been escalated but the weather condition in Papua is unpredictable," military spokesperson Julius Widjojono said, as quoted by CNN. The rebels said nine Indonesian soldiers were executed on Sunday after being captured in the Yal district. The rebels said the attack on the Yal military post was "revenge" for an Indonesian military operation in the area in late March when troops killed a pregnant woman and two rebel fighters. As per the rebel group, they'd proposed peace negotiations with the New Zealand and Indonesian governments, but for two months their letters had been ignored. They said New Zealand and the UN had an "obligation to urge the Indonesian Government to stop military operations" and said peace talks could be conducted under a "neutral third party, namely the UN organizational body." Mehrtens was captured in February after landing a commercial Susi Air charter flight at the remote Paro Airport in Nduga regency. (ANI)
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday said fighting in Sudan has led to "horrendous loss of life" and any further escalation could be devastating for the country and the region. "Fighting in Sudan has already led to horrendous loss of life. Any further escalation could be devastating for the country & the region. Those with influence over the situation must use it to support efforts to end the violence, restore order & return to the path of transition," Guterres tweeted on Tuesday. The Sudanese paramilitary group, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), recently claimed control of the Presidential Palace, as tensions between rival factions of armed forces escalated into violence, reported CNN. Witnesses told CNN that heavy fighting had been reported around the Presidential Palace and Army Headquarters in Sudan's capital Khartoum. The RSF in a statement, also claimed control of airports in Khartoum, Marwa and al-Abaid and subsequently the flights out of the international airport were cancelled. As of early Monday, 97 civilians have been killed and nearly 600 have been injured in clashes between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), according to The Washington Post citing the Sudanese Doctors Union. The Central Committee of Sudan Doctors said Monday morning that stray artillery struck a hospital in the southern part of the capital, creating "a state of terror and panic," but patients and staff were unharmed. Eyewitnesses in the capital city of Khartoum told CNN that fighting intensified after Sunday morning prayers, with loud noises and explosions heard throughout the night. There have also been reports of battles hundreds of miles away in the eastern city of Port Sudan. The armed forces and the RSF have been competing for power as political factions negotiate on forming a transitional government after a 2021 military coup. The tensions stem from a disagreement between the military, headed by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the RSF, led by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, about how the paramilitary force should be integrated into the armed forces and what authority should oversee that process, according to Al Jazeera. (ANI)
Amid the controversy over Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama's purported viral video, the British Tibetans have condemned China and its agents for attempting to purposefully tarnish the Tibetan spiritual leader's reputation and have also appealed to the BBC to provide "genuine coverage." The leaders of the group, Founder and Chair of Global Alliance for Tibet and Persecuted Minorities, Tsering Passang, Dalha Tsering (Tibetan Community UK-Chairman 2018-2020) and Phuntsok Norbu (Tibetan Community UK - Vice Chairman, 2018 - 2020), penned a Joint Letter to the BBC over the coverage the British broadcaster gave to Dalai Lama, over his viral video. The Tibetan community also organised a gathering outside the BBC building, which is not so far from the Chinese Embassy. Phuntsok Norbu, Tibetan Community UK - Vice Chairman, 2018 - 2020, spoke on the significance of this immediate gathering. Larter, Tsering Passang read out the trio's joint letter to the BBC and a recent Statement issued by a group of Tibetan leaders and activists from around the world. A group of former leaders of the Tibetan Community in Britain to the BBC's Portfolio Head of Audiences, Digital on April 16, in the joint letter, stated, "As a world-class public-funded media broadcasting house, we were deeply dismayed that the BBC would give so much heed to a few seconds of ill-intentioned "doctored" viral footage, clearly masterminded by CCP agents with the object of defaming our spiritual leader His Holiness the Dalai Lama." They added, "We are writing to draw your kind attention that the Tibetan Community has been deeply hurt by the BBC's recent coverage vis-a-vis His Holiness the Dalai Lama and his genuine compassionate greeting and interaction with an Indian student." "We would have expected that in being a respected world-class media house, the BBC would have proactively engaged in ensuring a credible, clear-sighted, and serious investigative journalistic piece, rather than running the story in the same manner of a sensationalist wildfire, as the rest of the tabloid media did," the group of former leaders of the Tibetan Community in Britain stated further. The statement added, "As you will know, His Holiness the Dalai Lama, a Nobel Peace laureate, is not only fond of the BBC, but significantly, he highly respects and values it for its authenticity, quality, and commitment to the truth. Even though repercussions from the recent coverage are yet to be fully known, it is evident that for Tibetans, aware of the playful and benign nature of His Holiness, that the BBC's coverage and furtherance of such clear disinformation has been perceived as a collective betrayal and stab to our hearts." The Tibetans then moved to the Chinese Embassy to stage a protest and rally after the brief presentation outside the BBC. The protest, which was organised at short notice, drew more than 100 Tibetans from far-flung areas of the nation. Speaking in support of the Dalai Lama, speakers also urged the public and media to comprehend the full context of what had occurred, what the Tibetan spiritual leader stands for, as well as his contributions to the world, rather than buying into China's propaganda through its purposefully "doctored" video clip. "This is clearly a deliberate attempt by China and its agents to tarnish the image of the Tibetan spiritual leader. They will also not succeed in their attempt to create a division between the people of India and the Tibetan refugees. They attempted this with the Tibetans in Tibet and the ordinary Chinese people back in 2008-09. As followers of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, we firmly believe in our spiritual leader and nobody can create the division they desired and hoped for. The truth will come out in due course. We condemn the perpetrators for their malicious act against our spiritual guru," Tsering Passang concluded his statement. Earlier, a purported video of the Dalai Lama meeting a boy went viral on social media and drew outrage. An official statement was also released by the office of the Dalai Lama after the video, stating that the Tibetan spiritual leader "wishes to apologize to the boy and his family, as well as his many friends across the world, for the hurt his words may have caused". (ANI)
US State Secretary Antony Blinken spoke with Sudanese Armed Forces' Commander General Abdel Fattah al Burhan and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) Commander General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, calling for the ceasefire to permit the delivery of humanitarian assistance, the US State Department said. "Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke separately today with General Abdel Fattah al Burhan, Commander of the Sudanese Armed Forces, and General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, Commander of the Rapid Support Forces, and underscored the urgency of reaching a ceasefire to permit the delivery of humanitarian assistance to those affected by the fighting, the reunification of Sudanese families, and allow the international community in Khartoum to make sure its presence is secure," said Principal Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel in a statement on Monday (local time). "The Secretary expressed his grave concern about the death and injury of so many Sudanese civilians due to the sustained, indiscriminate fighting, and stressed the responsibility of the two generals to ensure the safety and well-being of civilians, diplomatic personnel, and humanitarian workers," it added. The death toll from fighting between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has reached 180 and over 1,800 civilians and combatants were injured, The New York Times reported. According to NYT, the fighting has left many of the five million residents of the capital, Khartoum, stranded at home without electricity or water as they marked the last few days of Ramzan, the Muslim holy month when many fast daily from dawn until dusk. Overwhelmed medical facilities have been targeted, including a major medical centre northeast of Khartoum that was shelled, evacuated and shut down. More than a dozen hospitals have shuttered, according to NYT. The European Union's ambassador to Sudan, Aidan O'Hara, was assaulted in his residency in Khartoum on Monday afternoon, the EU's top diplomat, Josep Borrell Fontelles, said on Twitter. It was not immediately known who attacked him, but a spokeswoman for the bloc said the ambassador was "fine." It was still not clear who, if anyone, was in control of the country. The clashes, which erupted on Saturday, have pitted a paramilitary group known as the Rapid Support Forces against the Sudanese Army, a longstanding rivalry between Sudan's two top generals who have been vying for dominance, according to NYT. (ANI)
Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal aka Prachanda is likely to visit India on April 28, sources familiar with the development confirmed ANI. According to officials from Nepal's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Prime Minister Secretariat, the date was proposed by India to the Nepalese government. An official from the PM Secretariat confirmed to ANI, "If the political situation of Nepal remains normal in the coming days, the PM will embark on a 3-day visit to India. This will be his first international visit (since becoming PM for the second time)." The official also informed that the dates of the Prime Minister's visit would be announced officially by both countries within a week. "The Prime Minister also discussed the dates with his visit with the newly appointed minister for Foreign Affairs along with other officials. The Ministry of External Affairs has proposed the PM's visit from April 28," an official from PM Secretariat told ANI. Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal previously had visited India twice after becoming Prime Minister. In 2008, Dahal visited India after attending the closing ceremony of the Beijing Olympics. In 2016, he visited New Delhi again, in his first official visit to the country. According to officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), discussions about the air routes via Bhairahawa, hydropower projects, and Kathmandu- Raxaul railways, among other, are on the table. Two days ago, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar congratulated Nepal's new Foreign Minister NP Saud on his appointment. "Congratulate H.E. N.P. Saud on his appointment as the Foreign Minister of Nepal. Look forward to working together to strengthen our multifaceted partnership. Best wishes for success in your new role," tweeted Jaishankar. According to sources, Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal and the president of the Congress, Sher Bahadur Deuba, on Saturday came to an agreement to choose Saud as the new foreign minister of the country. NP Saud was irrigation minister in 2014 in the Sushil Koirala-led government. Prime Minister Dahal has been in charge of the Foreign ministry, which was allotted to the Congress as part of a power-sharing agreement, for the past month and a half, The Kathmandu Post reported. Meanwhile, Dahal expanded his cabinet for the eighth time, inducting a Foreign minister and a minister of state for Transport. As per the release from the Office of the President, Dahal inducted Nepali Congress leader Narayan Prasad Saud as Foreign minister while Nanda Chapai took oath as the state minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport. Both the ministers were administered their oath to post and secrecy at a ceremony at the Presidential Palace in Kathmandu. Earlier, on March 31, PM Prachanda had reshuffled the Cabinet after weeks of hiatus when he was only able to induct 11 ministers, which included a state minister. Intra-party rift of the Nepali Congress has been blamed for the delay in the expansion of the Cabinet, as 10 parties are on board the coalition have put forward their individual demands. In four months since the formation of the government, the Nepalese Prime Minister had to seek a vote of confidence twice and effect 8 cabinet reshuffles. Yet, all portfolios could not be allocated. Supported by 10 parties in the March 20 vote of confidence, which have come on board as part of the ruling coalition, Dahal on Friday managed to take 5 more parties on board. Despite filling up most of the ministries, PM Dahal still holds the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs; the Ministry of Forest and Environment; the Ministry of Health and Population and the Ministry of Youth and Sports. (ANI)
At least 17 people, including mastermind Pavittar Preet Singh, have been arrested in Northern California for a series of shootings within the Sikh community, local authorities revealed. A huge cache of arms, including 4 handguns and 2 assault rifles and large-capacity magazines, were also seized. Those arrested include Karandeep Singh, Pardeep Singh, Dharamvir Singh a.k.a Minta, Jobanjit Singh, Husandeep Singh and others. California Attorney General Rob Bonta, Yuba City Police Chief Brian Baker, and Sutter County District Attorney Jennifer Dupre announced the arrests after a months-long, multi-agency investigation of rival criminal syndicates operating throughout Northern California. "These groups are alleged to be responsible for numerous violent crimes and shootings, including five attempted murders, in Sutter, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Solano, Yolo, and Merced counties," read a press release issued from the office of the Attorney General. Members of these groups were allegedly involved in a mass shooting at a Stockton Sikh temple on August 27, 2022, and a shooting at a Sacramento Sikh temple on March 23, this year. During the investigation, law enforcement agencies were able to prevent two additional shootings. The joint law enforcement effort, which culminated on Monday in a large-scale operation with agents executing search warrants at 20 locations, also resulted in the seizure of 41 firearms. "Today, California is safer thanks to collaboration, determination, and swift action by DOJ agents and our law enforcement partners in Sutter County," said Attorney General Rob Bonta. "No family should ever have to worry about drive-by shootings or other forms of gun violence in the neighbourhoods where their children live and play. As a result of this joint law enforcement effort, we're taking guns off the street and putting suspected gang members and their associates behind bars," he added. Together, we're putting public safety first. Thank you to our law enforcement partners across the state for working with us day in and day out to protect the people of California," he said. "An investigation of this magnitude requires a tremendous amount of time and effort, and especially a lot of personnel," said Sutter County District Attorney General Jennifer Dupre, adding, "I cannot adequately express the appreciation of our small county for the help and support we've received from our public safety allies, especially the Department of Justice." (ANI)
The Group of Seven (G7) foreign ministers on Tuesday declared that peace and stability were an "indispensable element" of global security, while reiterating their call to China to behave responsibly as a member of the international community. In a joint statement issued after a three-day meeting at Karuizawa in central Japan, the foreign ministers emphasized "there is no change in the basic positions of the G-7 members on Taiwan." Expressing concern about the situation in the East and South China Seas the ministers from Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United States, plus the European Union, opposed China's "militarization activities" in the region. The G-7 joint statement comes in the wake of French President Emmanual Macron's remarks during his recent visit to China where he said that Europe should not become a "follower" of either Beijing or Washington and avoid getting involved in any conflict between the two countries over Taiwan. The comminique issued by the G-17 ministers after the meeting in Japan read, "We remain seriously concerned about the situation in the East and South China Seas. We strongly oppose any unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion. There is no legal basis for China's expansive maritime claims in the South China Sea, and we oppose China's militarization activities in the region." "We emphasize the universal and unified character of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and reaffirm UNCLOS' important role in setting out the legal framework that governs all activities in the oceans and the seas," the statement added. The G7 reiterated the award rendered by the Arbitral Tribunal on July 12, 2016, as a significant milestone. According to the US State Department, the Arbitral Tribunal was constituted under the 1982 Law of the Sea Convention and delivered a unanimous and enduring decision firmly rejecting the PRC's expansive South China Sea maritime claims as having no basis in international law. The G7 members recognized the importance of engaging candidly with and expressing our concerns directly to China. They acknowledge the need to work together with China on global challenges as well as areas of common interest, including climate change, biodiversity, global health security, and gender equality. "We reiterate our call for China to act as a responsible member of the international community. We stand prepared to work together to build constructive and stable relations through dialogue and to promote global economic recovery and people-to-people exchanges in a mutually beneficial way," the statement read. "It is in the interest of all countries, including China, to ensure transparent, predictable, and fair business environments. Legitimate business activities and interests of foreign companies must be protected from unfair, anti-competitive, and non-market practices, including through illegitimate technology transfer or data disclosure in exchange for market access," the statement added. Looking at various cyber-theft cases, G7 asked China to uphold its commitments to act responsibly in cyberspace, including refraining from conducting or supporting cyber-enabled intellectual property theft for commercial gain. Talking about the peace in Taiwan, G7 reaffirmed the importance of stability across the Strait as an indispensable element in security and prosperity in the international community, and call for the peaceful resolution of cross-Strait issues. There is no change in the basic positions of the G7 members on Taiwan, including stated one China policies. G7 also raised concerns with China on reported human rights violations and abuses, including in Xinjiang and Tibet. "We reiterate our concerns over the continued erosion of Hong Kong's autonomy rights and freedoms and call on China to act in accordance with its international commitments and legal obligations, including those enshrined in the Sino-British Joint Declaration and the Basic Law," the G7 said in a statement. "We call on China to act in accordance with its obligations under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations," the statement added. (ANI)
The Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Israel and India will be discussed on Tuesday, Israel's Minister of Economy Nir Barkat said adding that the Indian economy is rising to be the third in the world. Replying to a media query over FTA between India and Israel, Barkat said, "I'm going to be discussing it with the ministers today." Talking about the sectors that will figure in their discussions, the minister said the talks will be on wide-ranging sectors to enable more and more trade and "free trade brings people together". "I assume it should be in what we call there's a new couple of sectors that we provide. For example, agrotech food tech, creating food from the sea, and health tech. These are all tech-related ideas that Israel has a lot to offer, translating into a lot of trade in both directions. So from my perspective, we're coming as open as possible," he added. He further stated that India's economy was on course to becoming to be the third largest in the world, adding that India and Israel have a "classic" partnership. The first round of negotiations and talks on FTA was held in May 2010 but the deal came out as elusive. Earlier, Barkat attended the India-Israel Business Forum where he said that Indian people are "good friends" of Israel. "We share the same values including democracy, human rights and respect for others, and face similar challenges in security and economy," the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) quoted Barkat as saying. CII tweeted, "Today, 10% of Israel's labour is tech-oriented. For a small economy like Israel, we need to grow that number to 25% in the next 20 yr. For us to scale to that number, we need to open our markets and India is a great solution for our growth: Barkat." Noting that the world was moving swiftly ahead, he added, "We need to bring our experience from entrepreneurs & managers back to the #education system. The key factor for speeding growth would be how we transition from old jobs to new ones." The Israel-India Business Forum was also graced by Israel's ambassador to India Naor Gilon, who said the strategic relations between India and Israel are not only in name but in deed as well. The bilateral trade between the two nations has increased 40 times since the establishment of formal diplomatic relations in 1992, according to CII. (ANI)
Ahmadiyya community's place of worship in the Ghooghiat region of the Sargodha district in Pakistan's Punjab province was vandalised on Sunday, The News International reported. A police official who wanted to remain anonymous confirmed the incident. A police official said that the attackers have been arrested by the police, as per the news report. Ahmadiyya community in a press release called attacking and demolishing their worship places by mobs a "blatant violation" of Pakistan's constitution, as per The News International report. They further said that this place of worship is 118 years old. "Attacking and demolishing Ahmadiyya worship places by mobs is a blatant violation of Pakistan's Constitution and Justice Tasadduq Hussain Jilani's decision in 2014. This place of worship is 118 years old," the Ahmadiyya community said in the press release, as per The News International report. Earlier in February, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) in its report questioned the role of the local administration and police in incidents of mob violence against religious minorities in Gujranwala, the Dawn reported. In the report, the HRCP fact-finding mission has raised concern over the alarming rise in the persecution of members of the Ahmadiyya community in HGujranwala and surrounding regions, particularly the desecration of their grave sites of worship, as per the Dawn report. The HRCP fact-finding mission has said that First information reports (FIRs) have been filed against the community members for sacrificing animals on Eid, as per the Dawn report. The HRCP's report said that the civil administration officials in Gujranwala and Wazirabad were directly involved in destroying the minarets of Ahmadi sites of worship in December 2022 and January 2023, as per the news report. The administration took action after objections were raised by members of a local political-religious outfit. The administration has claimed that the action was taken in order to circumvent the threat of mob violence, as per the Dawn report. However, the report said that the way the matter was handled only increased the rising hostility towards the Ahmadiya community and increased the vulnerability of Ahmadi residents in the region. (ANI)
One of India's core strengths is its strong agriculture sector, which has made the country self-sufficient for its food security needs. India currently possesses the capability of producing sufficient food for 18 per cent of the world's population by using just 12 per cent of the world's land resources and a mere 4 per cent of the global water resources. India's farmers have been well utilising the country's 20 agri-climatic regions, 15 major climates and all 46 types of soils found in India, the piece of land that we, 1.4 billion people, call home. Advancements, investments, and government support have empowered India's Kissan and its farming sector. This year, the budgetary allocations of over USD 15 billion for 2023-24 to the agriculture and allied sector, included nine thousand crores, allocated specifically for farmer education. Narendra Singh Tomar, the Union Agriculture Minister said, "Even from an agricultural perspective several major announcements have been made. This time more than one lakh fifteen thousand crores (14 billion approx.) is the budget of the Agriculture Ministry and nine thousand crores (1.1 billion approx.) for Agriculture education have been allocated. Overall one lakh twenty-five thousand crore rupees (USD 15 billion) have been allocated for agriculture which is certainly appreciable". Because of such governmental efforts, the agriculture sector emerged victorious, growing at 3.6 per cent in 2020-21 and 3.9 per cent in 2021-22, despite Covid-induced shockwaves. The agriculture sector, which currently employs 56.4 per cent of India's population, is on track for exponential growth in the country's eight agriculture clusters; Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Punjab, Rajasthan and Assam. (Source- IBEF) Over time, multiple governmental efforts in the agriculture field have made India the world leader in the production of spices, pulses, milk, tea, cashew, and jute, and the second largest producer of wheat, rice, fruits and vegetables, sugarcane, cotton, and oilseeds. It is also predicted that India's agricultural industry will grow to 24 billion USD by 2025. (Source IBEF) Not limiting efforts to focused investments, the need to modernise and revolutionise India's agricultural sector has also been addressed by the government. Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in her budget speech said "Digital public infrastructure for agriculture will be built as open source, open standard and the interoperable public good. This will enable inclusive farmer-centred solutions. An agriculture accelerator fund will be set up to encourage Agri- startups by young entrepreneurs in rural areas. The fund will aim at bringing innovative and affordable solutions for challenges faced by farmers. We will launch an Atmanirbhar Clean Plant Program to boost the availability of disease-free quality planting material for high-value horticultural crops". Outside the halls of Parliament, India's private sector also has increased its support for the development of the agricultural industry in India. In September of 2021, the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare signed five MoUs with CISCO, Nestle, Ninjacart, Jio Platforms Limited, ITC Limited and NCDEX e-markets Limited. These MoUs will have five pilot projects, to help farmers maximize crop yield to establish India's agricultural might on a global level. (Source IBEF) India's conducive environment for startups has also reached the fields and farms of India. No longer remaining limited to business hubs, agricultural startups are being established all over India by the capable youth of our country. Saurabh Agarwal CEO, of GROWiT India an agri-startup based in Surat, explained the potential of the Agriculture sector to ANI and said "The potential of the sector is almost fifty thousand crores (6.08 billion) of business in this particular sector. Today the industry is only about a thousand crores (121 million). It's a huge potential in the industry, many people can come into the industry, and the more people that come in more knowledge farmers will have. It will be better for the industry to have some competition and some good young companies coming in and promoting this technology further". Amit Sinha the Co-Founder of Unnati Agri and agri-startup based in New Delhi said that "A lot of scope of building up India first solutions exists in the Indian agricultural field, and that is where a lot of startups including us have been working together and trying to solve the problems of agriculture through the latest in technology and financial services that we could bring to the table". Several modernizations have resulted in the introduction of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML) into the agricultural sector and the establishment of government and private platforms for supporting and creating a conducive ecosystem for the sale of agricultural produce. India is no longer a land of uneducated farmers. The revolution of the agricultural sector has resulted in several well-established and educated young entrepreneurs turning to farmlands, initiating more than 1300 Agri startups. Ezhil Subbian the CEO, of String Bio an agri-startup from Bangalore said that "We have a lot of MSC graduates working for us who come from a farming background. So their parents used to be traditional farmers now they have been trained agronomers who are keen to bring advanced farm management practices to their own farms. I think it's a very positive trend and I would hope to see more of this in coming years". Agricultural-based startups have aimed to ensure that scientific and cutting-edge technology reaches and utilizes the entire capable soil of India, east to west, north to south. While women have long been integral to the agricultural industry in India, female entrepreneurs have entered the rapidly revolutionizing market, providing it with a rather different approach and a different perspective. Rapid modernisation, targeted investments, government support, and the entrance of talented youth into India's agricultural sector will have a compounding effect and will ensure a bright future for yet another facet of Brand India. (ANI)
A Moscow court on Tuesday upheld the detention of US journalist Evan Gershkovich, who was arrested on an allegation of espionage that the Journal (Wall Street Journal for which the reporter works) and the US government vehemently deny, The Wall Street Journal reported. On Tuesday, the Moscow City Court announced the decision against moving Gershkovich to another prison, permitting him house arrest or granting him bail. The court's ruling implies that Gershkovich will remain in pretrial detention at Moscow's Lefortovo prison until May 29. However, the Russian authorities can extend that period.Lefortovo has often been used to house prominent political prisoners. Gershkovich's lawyers - Tatyana Nozhkina and Maria Korchagina of the ZKS law firm had challenged the American journalist's detention nearly three weeks after he was detained during a reporting visit. Evan Gershkovich has been held in Moscow over the allegation of espionage. The charges have been denied by The Wall Street Journal and the US government, as per The Wall Street Journal report. Evan Gershkovich stood inside a see-through detention box as he appeared in the hearing, The Wall Street Journal reported citing the footage of the proceedings witnessed on Russian state television. The hearing in the Moscow court comes after the US State Department's decision last week to designate Gershkovich as wrongfully detained. Lynne Tracy, the US ambassador to Moscow, visited Gershkovich at Lefortovo, as per the news report. Gershkovich was detained on March 29 and accused of espionage during his reporting trip to Yekaterinburg, as per the news report. On April 7, Gershkovich was formally charged with espionage, The Wall Street Journal reported citing TASS. Russia's Federal Security Service said the journalist was "acting on the instructions of the American side, collected information constituting a state secret about the activities of one of the enterprises of the Russian military-industrial complex." Last week, the US determined that Russia had wrongfully detained Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and urged his immediate release. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that Evan Gershkovich is "wrongfully detained by Russia," said US Department of State Principal Deputy Spokesperson. "Today, Secretary Blinken made a determination that Evan Gershkovich is wrongfully detained by Russia. Journalism is not a crime. We condemn the Kremlin's continued repression of independent voices in Russia, and its ongoing war against the truth," Vedant Patel said. "The US government will provide all appropriate support to Mr. Gershkovich and his family. We call for the Russian Federation to immediately release Mr. Gershkovich. We also call on Russia to release wrongfully detained U.S. citizen Paul Whelan," he added. (ANI)
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Tuesday held a meeting with Russian Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov in New Delhi. The two leaders exchanged views on strengthening economic and financial cooperation in to promote bilateral investment and trade. The Ministry of Finance in a tweet said, "Union Finance Minister Smt. @nsitharamanmet Mr. Denis Manturov, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Industry & Trade of the Russian Federation, today, at New Delhi." In another tweet, the Ministry of Finance stated, "Both Ministers exchanged views on strengthening economic and financial cooperation in areas of mutual interests to promote bilateral investment and trade." Denis Manturov, who is also Russia's Minister of Industry and Trade on Monday arrived in New Delhi to co-chair the Intergovernmental Russian-Indian Commission. On Tuesday, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar attended the 24th meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission (IGC) in New Delhi. During the meeting, Jaishankar and Manturov discussed cooperation in areas of trade, finance, industry, energy sector, including nuclear power, agriculture, transport, healthcare, education and culture, the Russian Embassy in India said in a tweet. At the 24th Meeting of IGC, Denis Manturov said that the trade turnover between Russia and India has exceeded USD 35 billion. The Russian Embassy in India tweeted, "Relations between #Russia and #India continue progressively developing in all directions. In 2022, despite negative external factors, positive dynamics in #RussiaIndia trade prevailed." In his remarks at the 24th Meeting of IGC, Manturov said, "According to the last year results, the trade turnover between our countries increased by 2.6 times, exceeding 35 bn USD. We have completed ahead of schedule the task set by the leaders of our countries to reach level of bilateral trade of 30 billion USD by 2025." On Monday, S Jaishankar and Denis Manturov met representatives of Russian and Indian businesses in New Delhi. The business forum participants discussed issues to further enhance Russian-Indian practical cooperation, including within the Intergovernmental Commission (IGC). Addressing the gathering, Manturov termed IGC a "unique mechanism" for a comprehensive discussion of topical issues on the Russian-Indian agenda. Manturov said, "The IGC is a unique mechanism for a comprehensive discussion of topical issues on the Russian-Indian agenda with the participation of specialised departments and organizations of the two countries. We are talking not only about trade and economic relations, but also about humanitarian areas of interaction, such as education and culture." On Monday, Manturov and Jaishankar attended the India-Russia Business Dialogue on Monday. Denis Manturov said that Russia is looking forward to intensifying negotiations on Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with India. On his first day of the visit to India, Manturov also held a meeting with Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal. Addressing the India-Russia Business Dialogue, Manturov said, "Together with Eurasian Economic Commission, we are looking forward to intensifying negotiations on Free Trade Agreement with India. He said, "Additionally, we are working on signing of Russia-India Bilateral Agreement for the Promotion and Protection of Investments." Manturov said that Russia has taken effective measures, including import preferences and mechanisms that guarantee the protection of investments that will be in demand among Russian and Indian businessmen." (ANI)
Nepal President Ram Chandra Paudel fainted on Tuesday earlier in the morning and was rushed to the hospital. He is now at Tribhuwan University Teaching Hospital-Maharajgunj under doctors' examination. In Monday's follow-up, it was found that he had an infection in his lungs and his oxygen level had fallen, an official at the President's Office confirmed to ANI seeking anonymity. "He fainted earlier in the morning and was rushed to the hospital. He is now at Tribhuwan University Teaching Hospital- Maharajgunj. Doctors are examining him. In yesterday's follow-up it was found that he had an infection on his lungs," an official at the President's Office confirmed. Earlier this month, Nepal President Ram Chandra Paudel was discharged from the hospital after undergoing a four-day treatment. President Paudel was admitted to Tribhuwan University Teaching Hospital, Maharajgunj on April 5 after he underwent treatment here for four days. According to the official statement from the hospital, Paudel complained about stomach ache, after which he was brought to the hospital. Two weeks earlier than that, Senior Nepali Congress leader Ram Chandra Paudel was sworn in as the President of Nepal. Paudel secured 33,802 electoral votes while his rival Subash Chandra Nembwang secured 15,518 electoral votes, according to Nepal's Election Commission. Further, according to Nepal's Election Commission, 313 members of the federal parliament took part in the voting while 518 members from the provincial assemblies also participated in the electoral process to pick the next president. The voting took place at Nepal's Parliament building in New Baneshwar, Kathmandu. The Election Commission in the Himalayan nation had set up two separate polling stations for federal parliamentarians and the Province Assembly members at the Hall. Lawmakers from all provinces arrived in Kathmandu for the election. A total of 884 members make up the Electoral College, including 275 members of the House of Representatives, 59 of the National Assembly and 550 of the seven provincial assemblies. Paudel was supported by eight parties while Subash Chandra Nembang, the sole candidate from CPN-UML, was tipped to be backed by independent lawmakers. (ANI)
Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation and Minister of Trade and Industry, Denis Manturov, the Co-chair of the India-Russia Inter-governmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation (IRIGC-TEC), visited New Delhi from 17- 18 April 2023. He was accompanied by senior representatives from several Russian Ministries.

During the visit, External Affairs Minister Jaishankar and Manturov Co-Chaired the 24th session of the Inter-governmental Commission which is a mechanism for monitoring the bilateral progress of trade and economic cooperation between the two countries. The Sides reviewed the entire gamut of bilateral trade and economic relationship and agreed to work together to unlock its full potential including through addressing the trade deficit and market access issues.

Manturov also held bilateral meetings with Commerce & Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and NSA Ajit Doval.

On 17 April 2023, the "India-Russia Business Dialogue" was held with the participation of major businesses from both sides which enabled the Co-Chairs and business leaders to engage and drive the momentum of shared priorities of deeper and wider bilateral commercial cooperation.

The visit is in continuation of the regular high-level dialogue between the two Sides. EAM last visited Russia in November 2022. (ANI)
America's Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, who assumed office last Tuesday was excited to work together as a team to further the US-India relationship. "Exciting times ahead! Our new Ambassador-Designate has arrived and we're energized to work together as a team to further #USIndia relationship. Here's to a successful partnership! #USIndiaTogether," tweeted US Embassy in India. Showing his eagerness to serve as US Ambassador to India, Garcetti said that he "can't wait for the work that we will do together." "Thank you so much. President Biden asked me to lead this mission because he understands in his heart what an important moment this is in history and between the United States and India. And I want you to know how personally he cares about this mission. I want to thank you for your heart, I want to thank you for your work, and I want to thank you for the way that you connect our two countries together and embody that every single day. I can't wait for the work that we will do together. Bless you all, and I look forward to the months ahead," he added. The US Embassy in India had been without an ambassador since January 2021, which is the longest stretch in the history of US-India relations that the post has remained vacant since Kenneth Juster, the last US envoy in New Delhi, stepped down after the change of government in America. The Senate on March 15 (Local Time) confirmed the former mayor of Los Angeles, Eris Garcetti, to be the US ambassador to India. Garcetti won the mandate by a vote of 52 to 42, a major victory for US President Joe Biden as well, who stuck by his political ally in the face of the allegations and the prolonged process that has left the world's most populous democracies without US representatives. After the result, Garcetti said in a statement, "I'm thrilled with today's outcome, which was a decisive and bipartisan decision to fill a critical post that has been vacant for far too long. Now the hard work begins." "I'm deeply grateful to President Biden and the White House for the confidence and support throughout this process, and to all Senators on both sides of the aisle -- whether they voted for me or not -- for their thoughtful consideration. I'm ready and eager to begin my service representing our critical interests in India," he added. Earlier, the Senate voted 52-42 giving the advantage to the former Los Angeles mayor's nomination. Senate Foreign Relations Committee also voted in favour of the former Los Angeles Mayor to become the ambassador of India. The panel approved the nomination by a vote of 13-8, with Republican Senators Todd Young and Bill Hagerty joining all of the committee's Democrats in voting in favour of Garcetti. (ANI)
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday held a telephonic conversation with Papua New Guinea counterpart Justin Tkachenko and discussed broadening the agenda of ties between the two nations. Taking to his official Twitter handle, Jaishankar stated, "Glad to speak with FM Justin Tkachenko of Papua New Guinea this evening. Discussed broadening the agenda of our ties." Earlier in September last year, Jaishankar met Justin Tkatchenko and discussed ongoing cooperation with the Pacific Islands. Jaishankar tweeted, "Very nice to meet FM Justin Tkatchenko of Papua New Guinea. Spoke about our ongoing cooperation with the Pacific Islands. Discussed next steps for taking it forward in the coming days." In December last year, India and Papua New Guinea held the first round of Foreign Office Consultations and reviewed the entire gamut of bilateral relations, including development partnerships, and political, economic and cultural ties, the Ministry of External Affairs said in the press release. During the consultations held at Port Moresby, the two sides exchanged views on regional and global issues and cooperation in multilateral fora. The Indian side was led by Saurabh Kumar, Secretary (East), and the Papua New Guinea side was led by Elias Wohengu, Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs. The MEA in the press release said, "During the FoC, both sides reviewed the entire gamut of bilateral relations, including development partnership, and political, economic and cultural ties. They also discussed the joint hosting by the two countries of the third Summit of the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) to be held in Port Moresby." According to the High Commission of India in Papua New Guinea, the two nations have formalized diplomatic relations since 19 May 1976. India opened its High Commission in Port Moresby in April 1996. (ANI)
China likes to accuse the USA of harbouring a "Cold War mentality". However, perhaps closer to the truth is that China itself is pushing the world into two opposing blocs. Chairman Xi Jinping spent three days in Moscow from 20 March to visit comrade Vladimir Putin. There the two autocrats professed undying appreciation for each other and reiterated close strategic relations. It was a Chinese show of solidarity for the embattled Putin, right after the International Criminal Court had issued an arrest warrant for his war crimes. "There are changes happening, the likes of which we haven't seen for 100 years," Xi told Putin as they farewelled each other. "Let's drive those changes together." The Russian leader responded, "I agree." Then, on 16 April, Chinese Defense Minister Li Shangfu was in Moscow to meet Putin and Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu. Li exulted that their relationship "outperforms the military-political unions of the Cold War era. They rest on the principles of nonalignment, and are very stable." It is doublespeak to call this "nonalignment", for China and Russia are closely aligned in their support for each other and their antipathy to the West. On 4 February 2022, Xi said their relationship had "no limits" and there were no "forbidden areas of cooperation". Xi has assessed that the benefits of this friendship outweigh the costs. China might pretend to be neutral, yet it is anything but, for Xi has deliberately hitched his chariot to Russia's warhorses. The dictatorial Chinese leader refuses to criticize Putin's bloody invasion of Ukraine and instead accuses the USA and NATO of prolonging it. Interestingly, more than half of Putin's team in the first round of talks with Xi were officials involved in Russia's weapons and space programs. This suggests one priority was military cooperation. With Russia scraping its equipment barrel, it is keen to utilize China's vast industrial capacity, and Xi would doubtlessly like to obtain Russia's most treasured secrets. Yet Russia's war against Kyiv has exacerbated fault lines between democracies and autocracies, something China does not necessarily want since it has toughened anti-China stances in many parts of Europe, for example. So, has the world entered a new Cold War? American political scientists like Hal Brands and John Lewis Gaddis say "It is no longer debatable that the US and China...are entering their own new Cold War. Chinese President Xi Jinping has declared it, and a rare bipartisan consensus in the US Congress has accepted the challenge." China's violation of the sovereign airspace of the USA and many others, via its high-altitude surveillance balloon program, made it even more obvious that China is engendering a wintry freeze as this new Cold War emerges. Willy Wo-Lap Lam, Senior Fellow at The Jamestown Foundation in the USA, commented: "The increasingly ferocious competition between the United States and its allies on the one hand, and China and the 'axis of autocratic states' on the other, has taken on unmistakable signs of a 'new Cold War'." Lam continued: "The leadership of President Xi Jinping, who is a hawkish nationalist convinced of the fact that 'the East is rising and the West is declining', is committed to challenging American dominance in fields ranging from economics and technology to geopolitics in the Indo-Pacific area. President Joe Biden has crafted a so-called 'anti-China containment policy' together with NATO in Europe, as well as Japan, South Korea and Australia in Asia. The Chinese response has been to continue supporting their long-time quasi-ally Russia and to build up a coalition consisting of non-democratic states in Central Asia together with Pakistan, Iran and North Korea so as to prevent the 'eastern expansion' of NATO." "And given that flashpoints such as Beijing's possible military action against Taiwan and the commitment of the US and its allies to protect the 'renegade island', there is even a possibility of the Cold War turning hot," Lam warned. Indeed, Taiwan is a unique problem with no parallel to the original Cold War. Would Xi gamble and do what Mao Zedong was never able to achieve, the forcible unification of Taiwan with communist China? Lam concluded: "Given such dire scenarios, the possibility is growing that the establishment of mutually acceptable and sustainable 'guardrails' for bilateral ties requires a level of perspicacity and flexibility that is beyond the current leaderships of both countries." Unfortunately, China will try bending guardrails in its direction until they snap. This has been demonstrated time and again by broken promises such as the militarization of the South China Sea, bullying of foreign ships and aircraft in international waters, blatant human rights violations, mass incarceration of Uyghurs, and the usurping of international organizations and norms. The Chinese government stated after Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan in August 2022 that it did not recognize the Taiwan Strait median line. Afterwards, its military aircraft and ships routinely crossed this line that for decades served as a de facto boundary between China and Taiwan. In April, after Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen's stopover in California, China again conducted coercive military drills around Taiwan. This time it said Taiwan's contiguous zone, an area immediately outside its coastal waters, does not exist either. Step by step, China is inexorably defanging Taiwan and reducing its space for manoeuvring. When CNN asked Taiwanese Foreign Minister Joseph Wu whether China is threatening Taiwan with war, he replied, "Yes, indeed. Look at the military exercises and also their rhetoric. They seem to be trying to get ready to launch a war against Taiwan, and we condemn it." Later, a People's Liberation Army (PLA) officer appeared on state-owned CCTV, criticizing Taiwanese people for not accepting Beijing's rule. He dehumanized them as "tumours" that need to be removed by the PLA. He asserted, "The body will feel pain. But what causes this pain? The scalpels or the tumour?" The problem is that China's diagnosis is completely wrong, for it is stuck in a Cold War mentality of militarism. Xi earlier said that "efforts to form cliques and to foment a 'new Cold War', ostracism and intimidation...will only push the world toward disintegration and even confrontation." Yet part of the problem is China's chameleon-like definitions depending on the audience. For example, Xi once told Biden: "This wide world can accommodate the developments of China and the US. China never aspires to change the existing international order, to interfere in America's internal affairs, or to challenge and replace the US." Yet at home, Xi proclaims the Chinese path as superior and that within a decade China will claim superpower status and be the final arbiter of events first in Asia and then the world. Similarly, soon after his appointment, Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang warned there "will surely be conflict" with the USA unless Washington changes course. Bilateral ties soon went bad when it became obvious Xi was determined to displace the USA as the status quo superpower. Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken have vowed that the USA is not looking for a Cold War, but nor is it blind to Chinese efforts to topple them as the preeminent power. Washington DC knows perfectly well that China is its greatest strategic competitor. In mid-2022, Blinken acknowledged, "China is the only country with both the intent to reshape the international order - and, increasingly, the economic, diplomatic, military and technological power to do it." The USA is weaving together alliances that help contain China, including AUKUS and the Quad. Yet some warn that American policies will become a self-fulfilling prophecy and that a Thucydides trap (an "inevitable" conflict between a status quo hegemon and a rising challenger) must be avoided at all costs. However, such arguments ignore Xi's belligerent culpability in stoking tensions and bullying all and sundry. As well as military coercion, China projects power through worldwide propaganda and the United Front work. This might occur as grants to universities and think tanks, exploitation of academic research for military purposes, networks of Confucius Institutes, contributions to foreign political campaign funds, interference in foreign political systems, threats against dissidents, industrial espionage, acquisition of specialist companies to gain intellectual property, cyberattacks or extensive spying. Indeed, Martin Purbrick, an Honorary Fellow at Keele University in the UK, wrote for The Jamestown Foundation: "These offensive activities have become far more apparent during the tenure of...Xi (from 2012), and seem to be part of efforts to move from a defensive to an offensive posture in a variety of areas. This can be characterized as a 'strategy of sowing discord', a Chinese proverb that refers to efforts to make internal disputes amongst the enemy so deep that they become distracted from the conflict. By taking offensive influencing measures against the US and other Western societies, the Chinese Communist Party aims to distract foreign attention from repression within China's borders and also to pressure the increasingly broad diaspora of dissidents from the Mainland, Hong Kong, Tibet, Xinjiang as well as Taiwanese separatists. In addition, this offensive posture is part of efforts to promote a more positive perspective of the PRC around the world..." Purbrick concluded: "Either by design or by default, the extent of PRC government offensive activities in the US and Western countries are so significant that it is perceived to be undermining societies within those states. This undermining of US and Western societies is not as systematic or effective as Russian political subversion, but the PRC may learn more effective execution if it sees a benefit in using a 'strategy of sowing discord' to pressure the US government." Lam of The Jamestown Foundation noted that two important differences between the old and new Cold Wars exist, however. The first is that US-USSR relations were always poisoned, whereas Sino-US relations enjoyed warmth at one stage until Xi's appearance. The other difference is that Chinese global influence is far more extensive than the USSR's ever was, primarily through economic and technological facets. It has spearheaded cross-continent trade and security blocs such as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership and Shanghai Cooperation Organization. Xi's Belt and Road Initiative envisages bringing whole swathes of the globe under China's clout, and not even the USSR had such grand ambitions. Despite their avowed loyalty to each other, the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) in the USA highlighted three weaknesses in the China-Russia relationship. The first is that historical and structural factors engender strategic mistrust between Beijing and Moscow. They have a checkered history, and their current closeness is something of a historical anomaly. Russia was privy to the "unequal treaties" that forced China to cede territory, money and spoils during its so-called "century of humiliation". Their tensions even spilt over into a 1969 border war and a split that lasted till the 1980s. The second weakness identified by CSIS is that Russian stagnation renders Moscow a less useful partner and contributes to a growing power asymmetry. China is now the largest trading partner of all former Soviet states in Central Asia, and Moscow is wary of Chinese influence in Central Asia, the Arctic and along their shared border. Moscow and Beijing might cast themselves as equal partners, but China is increasingly on top. China's economy was ten times larger than Russia's in 2021. Russia accounts for only 2 per cent of Chinese trade, but Russia, it accounts for 18 per cent of trade. Despite this disparity, China covets Russian supplies of oil, gas and coal. The third point raised by CSIS is that Russian military aggression has sparked blowback for China. Russian military actions in Ukraine have caused undesirable criticism against China, plus the strength of the Russian military is seriously depleted. In a United Nations General Assembly vote in March 2022, for example, 141 nations favoured a resolution condemning Russia's invasion, whereas China abstained. Just as Russia has dehumanized the people of Ukraine, labelling them Nazis, China does the same with its potential adversaries. Alarmingly, the world is one day going to confront headfirst the ideological fanaticism that Xi is fostering in China's youth. This was demonstrated in a video clip circulating in China, which shows a teacher asking a chubby primary school boy which countries he hates the most. "It's the US and Japan," because he had learned about the Korean War and Nanjing Massacre. "I know all the history." Then, when asked what he wanted to do when he grew up, he unhesitatingly replied, "Kill. I want to kill the Japanese. I want to kill the Americans." China, who is it again that is harbouring a Cold War mentality? (ANI)
Pakistan National Assembly has once again refused to grant PKR 21 billion to the Election Commission Pakistan to hold general elections in Punjab, The News.com reported. The National Assembly on Monday by a majority vote rejected the supplementary demand to provide PKR 21 billion to the federal government to meet the expenditure during the current fiscal year in respect of the ECP to hold general elections in Punjab. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supported the demand while the government members opposed it and subsequently, the House rejected the motion by majority vote, The News.com reported. Earlier, the National Assembly first approved the report of the Standing Committee on the issue of providing funds for elections in Punjab in which the standing committee recommended not to release the funds without the approval of the National Assembly. Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar moved the report of the Standing Committee on Finance and Revenue on the matter to discuss and propose recommendations in response to media reports that the Supreme Court directed the State Bank of Pakistan to release funds to the ECP for the purpose of holding a poll in Punjab without prior approval of the National Assembly, The News.com reported. The National Assembly adopted the standing committee report, following which the law minister moved a summary to grant PKR 21 billion to the federal government to meet the expenditure of holding elections in Punjab. Speaking in the National Assembly, the law minister said that the federal cabinet had referred the matter to the National Assembly which had the authority to approve or disapprove additional expenses under Articles 82 (2) and 84 of the Constitution, The News.com reported. He said the appropriate forum was the National Assembly, "which accords approval of expenses from the Federal Consolidated Fund" and that was why the cabinet had referred the matter to the House. He said that this House passed the resolution to hold elections on the same day in the whole country. He said the Supreme Court had ordered the State Bank to release the money from the Federal Consolidated Fund, adding that the cabinet and the standing committee referred the matter to House. Speaker National Assembly Raja Pervez Ashraf referred the matter to the Standing Committee of Finance and Revenues and directed that report be submitted to the National Assembly. Earlier, the federal cabinet referred the summary of the Finance Ministry regarding the provision of funds to the ECP for elections in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to the National Assembly. Meanwhile, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) informed the National Standing Committee on Finance that the central bank allocated funds of PKR 21 billion for holding elections in Punjab under the directives of the Supreme Court but they did not possess the authority to release these funds, The News.com reported. SBP acting Governor Seema Kamil told the parliamentary panel that in order to comply with the order of the apex court, the SBP allocated funds of PKR 21 billion for holding elections in Punjab but it was not the authority of the central bank to release these allocated funds. (ANI)
Visiting Israeli Minister of Economy Nir Barkat has called for more Indian investors in Israel and mentioned that the acquirement of the strategic Israeli port of Haifa by Adani Group is a "testimony that we trust the Indian business people." "I think it's a fact that Israel allowed an Indian company to acquire one of the two ports Israel has. It's a testimony that we trust the Indian business people. We trust the Indian government," he said in an interview with ANI. "I want to welcome more investors to invest in Israel. It's in the benefit, best interest of both sides, both countries and people and we believe it's a good investment and we want to make sure that the return on investment is such that more investors from India will come to invest in Israel's high-tech startup infrastructure. We'd love that," he added. Last July, Adani in partnership with Israel's Gadot Group, secured rights to buy 100 per cent shares of Haifa Port Company Ltd. The Port of Haifa is the second largest port in Israel in terms of shipping containers and the biggest in shipping tourist cruise ships. Earlier this month, former Ambassador of Israel to India Ron Malka was appointed as Executive Chairman of the Haifa Port owned by Adani Group and its Israeli partner Gadot Group. On India's G20 Presidency, the minister said that G20 is a big accomplishment of India. Speaking further about combating the terror challenges together, the minister said terrorism is a global challenge and Israel is working with India to combat the menace. Talking about Iran, the minister said "we will never surrender to terror." "Terrorism is not just an Israeli challenge. It's a global challenge. We knew, we are working together with India on how to make a better world, how to have better agriculture, food, water, health, and how to use technology to have a better world. But, unfortunately, the terrorists want to wipe Israel off the map. They are working together with Iran and Iran is funding global terrorism in our region," the minister said. "They are funding Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas in Gaza and regimes in Syria and other places, and they pose a threat to Israel. And just the other week or two weeks ago, unfortunately, the terrorists killed three members of a family, just because they were Jews. Just for being Jews, they were murdered. Israel has developed a very clear message, we will never surrender to terror and if God forbid the proxies in Lebanon and the Iranian proxies will try to target Israel, we will hit Iran," he added. The Israeli Minister also spoke on how India and Israel share a lot of experience in security and in counterterrorism. "Israel has demonstrated that we know how to strike peace with Egypt for 40 years, with Jordan for 25 years now. Thank God, we have the Abraham Accord. And the last thing I would say on this point is that both Israel and India have similar challenges, here in a tough neighbourhood. We are challenged together and that's why we share a lot of our experience in security and in counterterrorism together on how to become offensive because the best defence is offence and we share that knowledge with our friends here in India," he said. Further speaking on the opportunity of collaboration and India-Israel ties, the Minister said that he was inspired by the collaboration between the Israeli economy and the Indian economy and added that Israelis love Indians and Indians love Israelis. On the Free trade agreement, the Minister said that he believes that the big opportunity is in the business world and will check out the opportunity to do a Free Trade Agreement, side-by-side with the business development between the nations adding that he is very optimistic that "we'll be able to do really good deals together". "It's about sharing best practices. I just finished the meeting with Minister Piyush, discussing the collaborative work that we need to do together. Each side brings its knowledge and experience, skills to this relationship. Israel brings technology, entrepreneurship, ideas that are usually fresh and new and the scope and the size of India are certainly relevant for us Israelis. Once we know how to solve and create joint ventures together in India and market to a big country like India, then it's easier to go to the rest of the world," the Israeli economy minister said. Talking about the recent protests in his country, the minister said that he was proud of his democracy and that "we'll have to sit together and figure out how we make those reforms in a way that is accepted widely by the Israeli public". "I'm proud of our democracy. Like other big democracies in the world, we saw a big dispute in England between Pro Brexit and against Brexit. In the United States, there are challenges between Republicans and Democrats. We're a real democracy in the fact that people are willing and want to go and demonstrate in the street. They care about our country. And we'll sort it out. We've sorted bigger issues in our lives before. We believe in democracy. We believe that the changes we want to bring are going to improve the democracy. Other people think otherwise, we'll have to sit together and figure out how we make those reforms in a way that is accepted widely by the Israeli public. You know that there are ups and downs in every country," the minister said. Talking further about the Israel - Palestine conflict, the Minister said that the "Palestinians will have to get to an understanding to recognize Israel and that we have our right to exist" and "when they come up with the real will to do peace, we will strike peace with the Palestinians". On being asked when India can expect other ministers including Netanyahu to visit the country, the minister said that "he is going to recommend friends in the government, that it's a big opportunity of doing a lot of business in India". "I'll speak to the foreign minister that I believe will come shortly. And I strongly recommend, Prime Minister Netanyahu to come and pay a visit and see Modi again here in India and hopefully, we could propose some really important progress on the way we do business together in the near future. I am thrilled and excited about the opportunity and I'm going back home, extremely happy and inspired by this trip," the minister said. Expressing his happiness over his India visit, the minister applauded India's religious tolerance and was happy to see India scaling and growing. "It's a huge opportunity and the love that I received here in India is second to no other place in the world and it's just wonderful. I also said that the religious tolerance here is something that is very special. The tolerance between people. I was mayor of the city of Jerusalem, which is very tolerant. In one-quarter of a square mile, you have more mosques, synagogues and churches than anywhere in the world and the fact that all of these religions are respected. You can go walk the streets and see practising Muslims, Christians and Jews, practising their religion side-by-side. That reminds me of that kind of tolerance. I'm very happy to see how India is scaling and growing." (ANI)
On Thursday, a mobile library opened to public on a slow train that runs between central Chongqing and the city's Xiushan county. [Photo/VCG]

A mobile library on a train opened to the public in Chongqing on Thursday. It is the first of its kind in the municipality, according to the Chongqing section of China Railway Chengdu Group Co, the operator.



Staff member Zhong Jie said the train (No 5609/5610) that runs between central Chongqing and the city's Xiushan county  spanning 406 kilometers in about eight hours each way  is a public welfare "slow train", running up to 50 kilometers per hour.

She said the train stops at many small railway stations through the city's Youyang Tujia and Miao autonomous county, Pengshui Miao and Tujia autonomous county, Xiushan county and the Wulong, Fuling and Changshou districts. It has not only provided local farmers with a channel to sell their agricultural products and livestock outside their hometown markets but has also served as a sort of bus for students to travel back and forth to school.

Considering this, a mobile "study carriage" transformation plan was initiated by the Chongqing section. Some of the passenger seats in the No 3 carriage were removed, and study desks and chairs were installed by the windows. Readers can study and appreciate the natural beauty along the line.

Zhang Bingmei, deputy director of the Chongqing Library said more than 1,000 books are provided in the mobile library, covering various categories. The collection includes classic works and popular science books for teenagers on board.

She said that in recent years the library has made innovations in public cultural services in the cultural and tourism sector by establishing several special mobile libraries  on a ship owned by Century Cruises that travels along the Yangtze River, at Chongqing Jiangbei Airport, beside an expressway and in several scenic spots in the municipality.
Nine people were injured and one person was killed during the Russian shelling of the area around Kherson's central market, Governor Oleksandr Prokudin wrote in an update on April 18.

The shelling also caused property damage to the market, shattering glass in the main pavilion and stalls.

Andriy Yermak, head of the president's office, reported initially at 10:27 a.m. local time that the attack had injured six people.

Russian forces have been heavily shelling the liberated parts of Kherson Oblast since withdrawing from the west bank of the Dnipro River in the area in November 2022.

On April 16, Russian forces shelled Kherson Oblast 46 times, firing 170 shells from heavy artillery, drones, and air forces.

Residential areas in Kherson were targeted three times, according to the Kherson Oblast military administration. No casualties were reported.
Some shopper habits annoy and frustrate Aldi employees. Ken Wolter/Shuttershock

Aldi employees told Insider the main things customers shouldn't do while shopping.

Abandoning your cart or putting items where they don't belong creates more work for the staff.

Try not to enter the store at closing time, but if you do, use the self-checkout machine.

Aldi is a German supermarket chain known for its low-priced groceries and frequent sales on home essentials.

If you're looking to have the best possible shopping experience at Aldi, you should be aware of a few things that can make life easier for you and the staff.

Here are 10 things that you should never do in the store, according to current and former employees.

Insider has agreed to refer to the current Aldi employee by only their nicknames for privacy and job-security concerns (though their identity is known to Insider). Insider has verified that both employees work for/have worked for Aldi.

There's no use in asking employees to 'check in the back'

Current Aldi employee JK told Insider that one of their least-favorite experiences is customers asking employees to check the stock room for items that aren't on the store's shelves.

"If a product is out of stock on the shelves, we don't have a secret stash in the back," JK said. "It's frustrating when skeptical customers think they know the store's inventory better than the employees."

If an item is out of stock, JK recommended stopping by the next day to see if the store has received a new shipment.

Avoid shopping too close to the end of store hours

A "register closed" sign sits on an Aldi checkout line.

If you do come at closing time, try to use the self-checkout machine.anystock/Shuttershock

Andrew Bronson, a former Aldi employee and chief executive officer of Hard Money Property, told Insider that continuing to shop after closing time results in a longer shift and more work for the staff.

"Most Aldi employees understand that it can be annoying to drive all the way to the store to find out that it's about to close, but please respect the staff by doing your best not to shop past the posted hours of operation," Bronson said.

Story continues

If you do need to run into the shop just before closing time, try to limit the number of items you purchase and use one of the self-checkout machines, if possible.

Don't forget to look for posted sales guidelines

Aldi is known for its deals, but those discounts often come with rules that limit the number of sale items each customer can purchase.

JK said some customers ignore or don't understand these limits, which can make an employee's day more difficult.

"If customers take more than they're allowed, we have to ask them to leave the excess at the register," JK said. "This makes the employee look like the bad guy when they're only enforcing a clearly posted rule."

Make sure to check any posted signage or ask questions if you're not sure about the limitations of a deal.

But also don't try and get around sale restrictions by splitting up purchases

One way customers try to skirt purchasing limits is having different members of their family go through the checkout process separately, but JK said employees can usually tell when this is the case.

"We know that a 3-year-old didn't come in on their own to buy three dozen eggs with a $50 bill," JK said. "In these cases, we're forced to ask the responsible customer to put back the excess, and that's annoying."

Try not to abandon your cart in the store if you need to rush out

An Aldi shopping cart sits idly in the store.

Employees will have to put everything in your cart back in the right place.defotoberg/Shuttershock

Slipping away from your shopping cart to grab an item down the aisle is fine, but Aldi staffers dislike when customers simply abandon their fully loaded carts and leave, according to JK.

"It's annoying when customers leave their full carts around the store because the employees then have to return all those items to their proper places," JK said.

Abandoned carts can also obstruct the flow of traffic in the aisles and prevent some customers with mobility limitations from accessing products.

If you do need to dash out of the store without purchasing the items you've collected, at least deliver the cart to a staff member.

Putting items back on the wrong shelves creates more work for the staff

Many shoppers are probably guilty of ditching an unwanted item on the wrong shelf, but Bronson said that this seemingly harmless habit can create lots of extra work for Aldi staffers.

"We get that customers might decide against purchasing certain items, but employees are the ones responsible for tracking those products down and putting them back," Bronson said.

If you don't have time to properly return an item, it's always better to leave the product at the register or pass it to an employee who can take it directly where it belongs.

You shouldn't expect employees to clean up after your children

Being a courteous Aldi shopper means keeping an eye on your children and picking up after them if they happen to make a mess.

"Aldi is a great place for all ages, but employees will get annoyed if you allow your kids to make a mess in the store and don't clean up after them," Bronson said.

Bronson added that the staff particularly dislikes when parents allow their kids to knock items off the shelves or run around the store alone.

There's no reason to get frustrated with employees over out-of-date or sold-out Aldi Finds

An Aldi Finds sign reads "Limited time, premium buys."

Aldi Finds can sell out quickly.Jeff Bukowski/Shuttershock

Aldi Finds is a weekly selection of items that are available until stock runs out. Every store receives a single shipment, which means shoppers need to act fast if they want one of the chosen products.

JK said that despite the nature of the promotion, many customers don't take the warning about limited availability seriously.

"It's irritating when customers come in searching for a popular Aldi Finds item weeks after it was advertised," JK said. "These items aren't restocked, but some customers still throw a fit or try to guilt-trip employees for not ordering enough."

When planning your next grocery trip, make sure the products you're looking for are up to date.

Don't linger in the public restroom for too long

The restrooms at Aldi are available for customer use, but staff struggle when a shopper or an entire family monopolizes the space for a long time.

"Be respectful with how you use the bathroom," JK said. "It annoys us when we have to ask someone to leave the restroom because they've been in there for two hours."

Aldi employees shouldn't have to break up heated arguments between shoppers

Steeply discounted Aldi products often sell out quickly, which can make some customers frustrated, but Bronson said picking a fight with another shopper over getting the last of a certain item is never necessary or acceptable.

"People would be shocked at how often Aldi employees have to break up arguments between shoppers," Bronson said. "We aren't paid to do this, so please be respectful to fellow shoppers and team members."

Many Aldi products are regularly restocked, so you can go back in a day or two to retrieve the item.

Read the original article on Insider
A 15-year-old who was struck by a car in a Middleton driveway last week has died of her injuries, the district attorney and police chief said Monday.

The victim, who was not identified on Monday, was injured on April 10 when a vehicle hit her in the driveway of 1 Meadowlark Farm Lane, Essex County District Attorney Paul Tucker and Middleton Police Chief William Sampson said in a statement Monday night.

She was flown by medical helicopter to Massachusetts General Hospital, where she died of her injuries on Sunday, officials said.

The driver of the car that struck the girl remained at the scene and has cooperated with authorities, Tucker and Sampson said.

A preliminary investigation found the teens death appears to have been accidental.

The case remains under investigation by the Essex County District Attorneys Office State Police Detective Unit, the Massachusetts State Police Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Section, the Massachusetts State Police Crime Scene Services Section and the Middleton Police Department.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
The coronation of King Charles III will be held on May 6 at Westminster Abbey. Alastair Grant/WPA Pool/Getty Images

The coronation of King Charles III will be held on May 6 at Westminster Abbey.

Prince Harry will attend the coronation without Meghan Markle and their two children.

Joe Biden has confirmed he will not attend, but first lady Jill Biden will go in his place.

The coronation of King Charles III and Camilla, the Queen Consort, will be held on May 6 at Westminster Abbey.

King Charles III and Camilla, Queen Consort, pose for a photo in Buckingham Palace ahead of the coronation. Buckingham Palace/Hugo Burnand/Reuters

The coronation of King Charles III will be held on the first Saturday in May nearly 70 years after the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.

The coronation will be remarkably slimmed-down compared to Queen Elizabeth's  roughly 8,000 well-wishers attended the Queen's coronation on June 2, 1953, while only 2,200 people are expected to turn out for Charles' big day. Millions of others will be able to watch the ceremony from afar.

Still, Charles' coronation will nevertheless be the most significant royal event of this century, so far.

The ceremony, which will confirm Charles as the official monarch of the United Kingdom, will not only be attended by members of the British royal family but by royals and dignitaries from around the world. However, a few notable figures will be absent from the day's festivities.

Prince William and his wife, Kate Middleton, will be in attendance at the historic ceremony.

Prince William and Kate Middleton in Scotland in 2021. Samir Hussein/WireImage

Prince William, who is first in line to the throne, will attend alongside his wife, Catherine, Princess of Wales.

As working royals who have attended practically every major royal event together since their wedding in 2011, William and Kate are expected to not only attend the ceremony but also make an appearance on the Buckingham Palace balcony following the coronation ceremony.

Prince George, William and Kate's eldest child, will serve as a "page of honor" to King Charles during the ceremony.

Prince George in 2023. Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images

Prince George, who is second in line to the throne, will attend the coronation alongside his siblings, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. However, the young prince will hold a special role as a "page of honor" to his grandfather King Charles.

Story continues

There will be eight pages of honor in total. Lord Oliver Cholmondeley, Master Nicholas Barclay, and Master Ralph Tollemache will join George in assisting Charles, while the queen consort's pages will be her three grandsons, Master Gus, Master Louis Lopes, and Master Freddy Parker Bowles, as well as her great-nephew, Master Arthur Elliot.

Prince Harry will attend the coronation solo.

Prince Harry and Misan Harriman in 2022. Aaron Chown - PA Images / Contributor / Getty Images

While there was speculation over whether Prince Harry and Meghan Markle would attend the coronation at all, Buckingham Palace recently released a statement confirming that Harry would attend the ceremony.

However, Meghan Markle and their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lillibet, will remain at their home in California.

In a statement sent to Insider, Buckingham Palace said it was "pleased to confirm that The Duke of Sussex will attend the Coronation Service at Westminster Abbey on 6th May."

While it is confirmed that Harry will attend the ceremony, it is unknown if  and probably unlikely  he will join his family on the balcony of Buckingham Palace after the ceremony, given the fact that he is no longer a working royal.

Meghan Markle, Prince Archie, and Princess Lilibet will not attend the ceremony.

Meghan Markle. Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty

"The Duchess of Sussex will remain in California with Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet," Buckingham Palace said in a statement.

The coronation falls on the same day as Archie's 4th birthday, and royal experts say that likely played a part in Meghan's decision to skip the ceremony.

"I think the decision for Harry to go and for Meghan to stay home with the children on Archie's birthday is a brilliant way to split the difference," Kristen Meinzer, a royal watcher, told Insider.

Prince Edward will be in attendance, as will his wife, Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh.

Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, and Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh. Chris Jackson/Getty Images

Prince Edward, King Charles' brother and the newly appointed Duke of Edinburgh, will attend the coronation, the BBC reported, and appear on the balcony of Buckingham Palace.

Princess Anne, Charles' younger sister, will also attend.

Princess Anne and Timothy Laurence on the Buckingham Palace balcony in 2018. Max Mumby via Getty Images

Her husband, Sir Timothy Laurence, will also likely be in attendance.

Prince Andrew is expected to participate in the coronation, but he may not wear the ceremonial robes typically worn by immediate members of the royal family.

Prince Andrew. Steve Parsons - WPA Pool/Getty Images

King Charles III and Prince Andrew have had a rocky relationship over the years, especially after Andrew was accused of sexual abuse.

In August 2021, Virginia Roberts Giuffre filed a lawsuit against Prince Andrew, accusing the prince of sexually assaulting her at Jeffrey Epstein's mansion when she was 17.

The royal, who said he cut ties with Epstein, has repeatedly denied the allegations, and the lawsuit was dismissed in March 2022 after the prince paid her settlement money.

In January 2022, Buckingham Palace announced it was stripping Andrew of his military titles, royal patronages, and HRH status in the fallout of the allegations. In July 2022, royal expert Neil Sean claimed in a Fox News article that Andrew's relationship with Charles was "virtually nonexistent."

According to Time, it is not yet known whether Prince Andrew will participate directly in the ceremony or wear the traditional ceremonial robes.

Camilla's children, Tom Parker Bowles and Laura Lopes, will attend the coronation with their respective families.

Laura Lopes and Tom Parker Bowles. UK Press Pool/UK Press/Getty Images

Tom Parker Bowles, who is married to Sara Parker Bowles, had two children with his first wife, fashion editor Sara Buys. Their son, Freddy, 13, will serve as a page of honor at the ceremony, while their daughter, Lola, will likely also attend.

Laura Lopes, who shares three children with her husband Harry Lopes, is expected to attend. Twins Louis Lopes and Gus Lopes, both 13, will serve as pages to Camilla.

Camilla's sister, Annabel Elliot, and her nieces, Alice Irwin, Katie Elliot, and Ayesha Shand, are also expected to attend the ceremony, as will her nephew, Ben Elliot.

President Joe Biden has confirmed he will not attend the coronation, but first lady Jill Biden is expected to go in his place.

President Joe Biden and Jill Biden. ERIN SCHAFF/AFP via Getty Images

No American president has ever attended a royal coronation, so it's no snub that Biden has chosen to skip the historic event.

"There is a precedent here for the president not to go, and then you know, President Eisenhower didn't attend Queen Elizabeth's coronation either," National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby told ABC News.

The White House released a statement that Biden has spoken with Charles privately and congratulated him on the upcoming event while "underscoring the strength of the relationship between our countries and the friendship between our peoples" as well as expressing that "First Lady Jill Biden looks forward to attending on behalf of the United States."

Prince Albert and Princess Charlene of Monaco were among the first international royals to confirm that they will attend the coronation.

Princess Charlene and Prince Albert of Monaco. ERIC GAILLARD/Getty Images

In a break with tradition, royals from across the world will attend Charles' coronation.

"I'm certain that it's going to be an incredible ceremony and a very moving one," Albert told People in January. "I'm certain His Majesty will add his own 'personal touches' to the ceremonies, but what those will be, I'm sure I don't know."

However, the royal couple said they were undecided as to whether their 8-year-old twins, Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella, would attend the coronation, saying that "[they] may be a little young for these types of ceremonies."

Queen Margrethe II of Denmark was invited, but she will not attend as she is currently recovering from back surgery.

Queen Margrethe II of Denmark waves from the Town Hall balcony after lunch during festivities for her 75th birthday on April 16, 2015. Mark Cuthbert/UK Press via Getty Images

Queen Margrethe, a distant cousin of Charles, recently returned to her public duties after undergoing back surgery in February, but she already confirmed that she will not attend the coronation.

The Danish queen previously traveled to the United Kingdom for the Duke of Edinburgh's Service of Thanksgiving and joined her son Frederik, who is taking her place at the coronation, at Queen Elizabeth II's state funeral.

Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark, who is first in line to the Danish throne, and his wife, Crown Princess Mary of Denmark, will attend the ceremony in her place.

Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark and Crown Princess Mary of Denmark. Patrick van Katwijk/WireImage/Getty Images

Prince Frederik also recently came out in support of the queen amidst a family squabble concerning the titles of his brother Prince Joachim's three children.

Queen Margrethe announced last year that she would be taking away his four children's prince and princess titles and that they would instead receive the titles of counts and countesses.

The decision, which she said was to allow her grandchildren greater freedom, was "in line with similar adjustments that other royal houses have made in various ways in recent years," according to a statement released by the Danish royal family.

The decision apparently came as a surprise to Joachim, who is currently living in Paris with his family before an upcoming move to Washington, DC.

"My kids don't know which leg to stand on. What they should believe," he said in a press statement, according to Town & Country. "Why should their identity be removed? Why must they be punished in that way?"

Prince Frederik, who is heir apparent to the throne of Denmark, came out in support of Margrethe's decision.

"My mother has made this decision alone, because it is what she can do and it is what she wants, and she thought now was the time to make a decision that I also support and see as the right thing to do," Frederik said outside of a Copenhagen school where he attended an event in October 2022, People reported.

"I myself am interested in the Danish monarchy staying lean over time, so I, therefore, support my mother's decision, which she has chosen to make," he added.

Crown Prince Akishino and Crown Princess Kiko of Japan will also attend the coronation.

Crown Prince Akishino and Crown Princess Kiko of Japan in 2019. Associated Press

According to the Japan Times, the event will mark the couple's first official visit to the United Kingdom and their first time attending a foreign royal coronation, according to a statement released by the Imperial Household Agency.

Emperor Naruhito will not attend the ceremony according to a protocol that disallows him from attending foreign royal coronations. However, the Emperor did attend the state funeral of Queen Elizabeth II.

King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain will also attend the ceremony.

Queen Letizia of Spain and Felipe VI of Spain leave after the state funeral of Queen Elizabeth II. Adam Gerrard- WPA Pool/Getty Images

There has been no confirmation of whether they will be joined by their two daughters, Leonor and Infanta Sofia.

The couple previously showed their support for the British royal family by attending the state funeral of Queen Elizabeth II at Westminster Abbey, as pictured above.

King Carl XVI Gustaf and his daughter Crown Princess Victoria will represent Sweden at the ceremony.

King Carl XVI Gustaf and Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden. Patrick van Katwijk/Getty Images

The king, who is currently celebrating his 50th jubilee, is the longest-reigning monarch of Sweden in history.

Crown Princess Victoria, who is heir to the throne of Sweden, will join her father at the historic ceremony.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his wife, Akshata Murthy, will also attend the ceremony.

Rishi Sunak and his wife, Akshata Murthy. Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images

Sunak, who was elected prime minister in October, expressed his excitement for the event in his New Year's address, saying he hopes that the United Kingdom will "come together with pride in everything that makes this country great" come the time of the coronation.

Sunak will also host a coronation luncheon at Downing Street in the days surrounding the official ceremony.

Other political leaders, including Humza Yousaf, the newly appointed first minister of Scotland, 20 members of Parliament, and 20 peers from the House of Lords, will also be in attendance at the ceremony.

Read the original article on Insider
A 19-year-old was killed when a car she was in rolled down a driveway and pinned her against a tree, West Virginia deputies say.

Elizabeth OLeary was found dead just after 1 p.m. on Sunday, April 16, according to a news release from the Kanawha County Sheriffs Office. An overturned Hyundai Elantra was found nearby in the front yard of a home.

Deputies said OLeary had been partially inside the Hyundai holding its steering wheel when the car began to roll down a steep driveway. The car struck a tree, pinning OLeary, then continued rolling down the hillside before overturning.

The car had been left in drive with no parking brake, which caused it to roll, investigators said.

OLeary was a Nitro High School graduate, and a beloved daughter, sister and friend, according to a Facebook post from the school.

Loved ones shared tributes for OLeary on social media.

I still dont have the right words to convey how amazing Elizabeth OLeary was in our lives, Amanda Estep Burton wrote in a Facebook post. Liz was an honors student, valedictorian, a kind human. She had so much life to live, as she just celebrated her 19th birthday...This is hard.

Liz, you had such an incredible impact on everyone around you, Chloe Beckner said in a post. You knew how to light up the room, make people laugh and so much more. You were such a intelligent young lady and I knew you were going to excel in life. You were such a special, genuine soul. If you knew Elizabeth, you loved her.

She was extremely studious and applied herself like very few students I have ever taught, Andy Shamblin, one of OLearys high school teachers wrote in a Facebook post. Life just doesnt make sense or seem fair. However, I am thankful for good memories of Elizabeth.

Nitro is about 15 miles northwest of Charleston, West Virginia.

Two teens killed after prom when their car gets pinned underneath semi, AL reports say

Teen sisters killed in fiery car crash in Virginia, cops say. Never be whole again

Teen among five killed when SUV runs stop sign and slams into 18-wheeler, NC cops say
Two Paso Robles men were arrested on forgery and gun charges after one allegedly attempted to pass a bad check in Atascadero on Monday, police said.

Atascadero Police officers responded to Mechanics Bank on El Camino Real at approximately 3:08 p.m. for a report of a suspect who had fled the bank on foot after attempting to pass a forged check, according to a news release.

A police officer who arrived at the scene saw a vehicle quickly leaving the area where the suspect had reportedly ran to, according to the release. That officer followed the vehicle and initiated a traffic stop near Curbaril and Coromar avenues.

When the vehicle stopped, two people fled on foot, according to the release, and one of them was armed with a handgun.

Officers established a perimeter and began searching for the two people.

According to the release, one was arrested while walking north on the southbound Highway 101 off-ramp at Curbaril Avenue. The other was arrested in a restroom at Smart and Final, police said.

A K9 unit from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife was also brought in to help locate any discarded firearms since one of the suspects had been seen to be armed, police said. The gun was ultimately found in the backyard of a home where a family with a 2-year-old lived, police said.

Isaac Ward Taberez, 30, was arrested on suspicion of charges related to the forgery incident and resisting arrest, according to the release. He was booked into San Luis Obispo County Jail but no longer appeared to be in custody as of Tuesday morning, according to the SLO County Sheriffs Offices Whos in Custody website.

Sebastian Reneealonzo Yciano, 23, was arrested on suspicion of charges related to possession of a firearm, felon in possession of a firearm, narcotics possession and resisting arrest, according to the release. He was booked into San Luis Obispo County Jail with bail set at $102,000.
[Source]

Two Chinese men have been arrested for illegally opening and operating a police station in New York City as part of a provincial branch of the Ministry of Public Security (MPS) of the Peoples Republic of China (PRC).

On Monday, Harry Lu Jianwang, 61, of the Bronx, and Chen Jinping, 59, of Manhattan, were arrested and charged with conspiring to act as agents of the PRC government and obstructing justice by destroying evidence of their communications with an MPS official.

According to Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Departments National Security, the men are accused of establishing a secret police station in lower Manhattan in 2022 on behalf of the Chinese government in order to locate and intimidate pro-democracy activists and dissidents in the U.S. critical of Beijings policies.

The PRC, through its repressive security apparatus, established a secret physical presence in New York City to monitor and intimidate dissidents and those critical of its government. The PRCs actions go far beyond the bounds of acceptable nation-state conduct. We will resolutely defend the freedoms of all those living in our country from the threat of authoritarian repression. More from NextShark: Chinese couple marry at age 94 after remeeting for first time in nearly 70 years

The Spain-based nonprofit Safeguard Defenders previously uncovered that the informal police stations were supposedly being set up globally by the PRC to provide assistance to Chinese nationals in handling paperwork, including renewing their drivers licenses and official documents.

However, the investigation found that the men did not register with the Justice Department as agents of a foreign government, nor did it perform the basic services of helping Chinese citizens, according to U.S. law enforcement officials.

It is simply outrageous that Chinas Ministry of Public Security thinks it can get away with establishing a secret, illegal police station on U.S. soil to aid its efforts to export repression and subvert our rule of law, said Acting Assistant Director Kurt Ronnow of the FBI Counterintelligence Division.

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This case serves as a powerful reminder that the Peoples Republic of China will stop at nothing to bend people to their will and silence messages they dont want anyone to hear. The FBI is dedicated to protecting everyone in the United States against efforts to undermine our democratic freedoms, and well hold any state actors  and those who help them  accountable for breaking our laws.

According to the nonprofit, 36 stations have been built in 16 European countries, including France, Spain, Britain and Germany, while the rest can be found in the Americas, Asia and Africa.

However, Chinas Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin disputed the claims of a Chinese secret police station on Tuesday.

More from NextShark: Man arrested after villagers find naked corpse of woman covered in bite marks in northeast Thailand

Wang said that China has a policy of non-interference in other countries, claiming that the alleged police stations do not exist.

China firmly opposes the U.S. side's slandering, smearing, engaging in political manipulation, and maliciously concocting the so-called transnational repression narrative, AFP quoted Wang as saying.

Separately, the Justice Department also charged 34 officers in the MPS for allegedly creating thousands of fake social media accounts to harass dissidents abroad.

More from NextShark: Douyin users criticize 'baiting crowd' for egging on Chinese influencer's livestream suicide

According to prosecutors, the defendants are part of a specialized task force in Beijing known as the "912 Special Project Working Group," which uses social media to spread Chinese government propaganda. They would also allegedly disrupt dissidents on U.S. technology platforms during meetings where topics critical of the Chinese government were discussed.

Breon Peace, the U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of New York, said in a release:

As alleged, the PRC government deploys its national police and the 912 Special Project Working Group not as an instrument to uphold the law and protect public safety, but rather as a troll farm that attacks persons in our country for exercising free speech in a manner that the PRC government finds disagreeable, and also spreads propaganda whose sole purpose is to sow divisions within the United States.

In addition, prosecutors also announced that eight Chinese government officials, all believed to be living in China, were charged with directing an employee of a U.S. telecommunications company to remove Chinese dissidents from its platform.
Two San Joaquin County men and one man from Dublin have been charged in a murder-for-hire plot.

A federal grand jury has charged two San Joaquin County men and one man from Dublin in a murder-for-hire plot.

Jagninder Singh Boparai, 46, of Manteca; Ramesh Kumar Birla Jr., 45, of Dublin; and Shaminderjit Singh Sandhu, 49, of Tracy, have been charged with conspiracy to use interstate commerce facilities in the commission of murder-for-hire, U.S. Attorney Phillip Talbert said Monday.

Additionally, Boparai was charged with the use of interstate commerce facilities in the commission of murder-for-hire.

Court documents show that Boparai met with a person he believed was a hitman at a Starbucks in Manteca in February. The hitman was a confidential informant working for the FBI.

According to court documents, Boparai told the hitman that his first job involved attacking the victim, identified in court documents as "Victim 1." The court documents allege the Manteca man said the hitman would be given another job once he proved his trustworthiness.

Boparai allegedly met with the confidential informant again the following day and offered to pay $6,000 for the assault of Victim 1.

A month later, Boparai met with the confidential informant in the presence of Birla and another individual and gave the confidential informant $1,000 as a down payment for the assault, according to court documents.

After more time had passed, the confidential informant showed Boparai a staged photo of Victim 1 laying on the ground covered in bruises, dirt, and blood to indicate the assault had occurred. The court documents allege the Manteca man liked the photo and told the confidential informant he had two other jobs for him.

One job involved robbing a business, and the other involved making a person "disappear," court documents said.

The court documents allege that Boparai met with the confidential informant in March 2023 and paid him $10,000 as a down payment for the murder of "Victim 2." Sandhu allegedly provided Victim 2's address to the confidential informant.

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Boparai told the confidential informant that Victim 2 "must disappear without any evidence remaining," court documents show.

Boparai made two calls to Birla in which he asked for Victim 2's Facebook profile and then sent a picture from the profile to the confidential informant, according to court documents.

On March 24, Sandhu and Birla allegedly met with the confidential informant in a parking lot in Manteca. They instructed the confidential informant to kill Victim 2 and take their remains to Mexico in a suitcase. They claimed Boparai was out of town during this meeting, but Boparai was seen by surveillance in a car in the same parking lot.

Boparai, Birla, and Sandhu were arrested on March 31 and are currently in federal custody.

If convicted, the men face a minimum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine, the U.S. Attorney's Office said.

Record reporter Hannah Workman covers news in Stockton and San Joaquin County. She can be reached at hworkman@recordnet.com or on Twitter @byhannahworkman. Support local news, subscribe to The Stockton Record at https://www.recordnet.com/subscribenow.

This article originally appeared on The Record: 2 San Joaquin County men charged in murder-for-hire plot
A woman and three others were driving in search of a friends home when they drove up a mans driveway by accident in a rural region of upstate New York.

Upon realizing their mistake, they began to leave when the homeowner walked out on his porch and fired two shots at the car the evening of April 15 in Hebron, Washington County Sheriff Jeffrey J. Murphy said at an April 17 news conference.

One of the shots hit Kaylin A. Gillis, 20, of Schuylerville, a passenger of the car pronounced dead shortly afterward by authorities, according to Murphy.

The homeowner, Kevin D. Monahan, 65, of Hebron, is facing a second-degree murder charge, a sheriffs office news release said.

This is a very sad case of some young adults that were looking for a friends house and ended up at this mans house who decided to come out with a firearm, Murphy said.

He said Monahan had no reason to feel threatened by Gillis and her friends, who were in his driveway for a short time.

Gillis was taken way too young and comes from a good family that Murphy personally knows, he said.

Monahans attorney Kurt Mausert told McClatchy News in a statement on April 18 that the case is very new and evidence is still being collected.

My preliminary view of this case is that it was a series of errors which resulted in a tragedy, Mausert said. It is too soon to say more than that.

How the events unfolded the night of the shooting

Gillis and her friends were driving around Hebron, where its easy to get lost with its dirt roads and a lack of cell phone service, before arriving outside Monahans home, Murphy said.

After Monahan shot Gillis, the friends drove on Cemetery Road in Salem, about 6 miles away, where they had cell service and called 911 at 9:53 p.m. on April 15, according to the sheriffs office.

Authorities arrived and performed CPR on Gillis before she was pronounced dead, Murphy said.

Afterward, police said they went to speak with Monahan, who is accused of being uncooperative and refusing to exit his home or speak to officers.

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About more than an hour later, Monahan was taken into custody, Murphy said.

He was detained in Warren County Jail.

Mausert told McClatchy News that his client properly asserted his right to counsel and to remain silent when police were at his house.

He said Monahan is a building contractor who has lived in Washington County for over 30 years. Mausert added that his client has no prior penal law convictions.

Hebron is about 60 miles northeast of Albany.

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Georgia police and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation are investigating a deadly stabbing during a block party Saturday night.

According to WTOC, police responded to the 300 block of East Jenkins Street in Vidalia, Georgia around 9:56 p.m.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

When officers arrived, they found 21-year-old Kaysey Jordan stabbed multiple times. Jordan was rushed to a local hospital where she later died, WTOC reports.

Neighbors said an annual block party was happening moments before the deadly stabbing.

Even with crowds of people in attendance, police told WTOC they have received little information about the incident.

Kaysey Jordan is a person. Shes somebodys daughter. Shes a mother. Shes a part of our community and her life mattered. If it was your daughter, your child, your aunt or cousin, youd want somebody to say something. The family deserves answers, said Sgt. Shannon Martin with Vidalia Police.

TRENDING STORIES

Police told WTOC a joint death investigation is being conducted by the GBI and Vidalia Police Department.

If you have any information on this incident, call the Vidalia Police Department Investigative Services Division at 912-537-4123 or special Agent Corey Haynes 912-537-4123.

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IN OTHER NEWS:
A historical cultural street in Jiangmen, Guangdong province. [Photo/VCG]

Thanks to the hit show, The Knockout, visitor numbers have soared in Jiangmen, Guangdong province, the city in which the drama was filmed.

After the program aired at the start of the year, the city saw more than 3.34 million trips in January and February, up 67.8 percent year-on-year, according to a statement issued by the city government on March 22.

The trips generated tourism income of more than 3.4 billion yuan ($494 million) for the city, a rise of 124.3 percent compared with the same two months last year, the statement said.

Data from the local culture and tourism department show that the number of searches related to tourism in the city rose 217 percent month-on-month in February, while travel bookings rose by 144 percent month-on-month.

"The popularity of the drama has helped our city attract more travelers and promoted the recovery of our tourism industry," said Chen Wenfei, deputy head of the Jiangmen tourist association.

For example, a historical cultural street in the city that was a major location for the drama attracted more than 2 million visits between Jan 14 and Feb 28, with an average of 43,700 trips a day, the statement added.

It cited statistics from Ctrip, an online travel platform, showing that the number of searches about tourism in Jiangmen rose by 174 percent year-on-year from March 1 to 23. By March 23, the city's tourism orders for the upcoming Labor Day holiday had surged 472 percent compared with last year.

"This year, the average occupancy rate of our hotel is as high as 80 percent, up 50 percent from last year, and our rooms are usually full at weekends," said Lin Yujiao, manager of the Gudou Spring Superior Hotel. She added that more than 30 percent of the guests traveled to the city because of the TV series to visit shooting locations and taste local delicacies that appeared in the drama.

Chen Rongbiao, executive president of the China Scheming Research Institute, said that working out how to maintain the tourism boom is important for Jiangmen's development. In addition to decorating rooms with posters of the drama and simulating scenes from the series, he called for the city's hotels and homestays to improve the quality of their services and take full advantage of technology to provide more convenience for guests.

Zhou Zhihong, secretary-general of the Guangdong Tourist Attraction Association, said that it is also necessary to help visitors learn about architectural features and understand local folk culture during their trips and to build hotels themed on the drama.

Huang Dachang, a deputy to the National People's Congress, the country's top legislative body, from Jiangmen, expressed excitement after he saw the tourism recovery resulting from the drama and said he regards the show as a good opportunity to improve the city's image and boost its economic development.

Zhang Zhibing, a political adviser, agreed with that view and suggested that the city government seize the opportunity to develop more innovative, high-quality tourism projects to maintain the sector's sustainable and healthy growth.
Summer is nearly here, which for many of us means going to the beach, dining and drinking along the water, and catching some of the blockbuster summer concert tours visiting our area. Yet for many of us, it also means flocking to air-conditioning and comfy seats and taking in another type of blockbuster: this year's slate of summer movies.

While the box office underperformance of "Shazam! Fury of the Gods" and "Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania" suggests some superhero movie fatigue, there's still plenty for now, with the Guardians of the Galaxy, Spider-Man, The Flash and Blue Beetle among the comic book characters coming to the big screen this summer. Other big-name franchises such as "Fast & Furious," "Indiana Jones" and "Mission: Impossible" will also release their latest entries.

There'll be original films hitting theaters this summer, too, including what looks like a welcome resurgence of the R-rated comedy. Two Oscar-nominated directors are set to release their highly anticipated new movies on the same day. You'll even find some Sunshine State connections, including a comedy starring a Tampa Bay native, a horror film directed by and starring a St. Pete-raised actor, and the latest cinematic adaptation of a famous author and Sarasota County resident's work.

Here are the biggest movies set for wide release this summer, listed in chronological order. Release details are subject to change.

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'Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3' (May 5)

"Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3."

While James Gunn is now co-CEO of DC Studios, he'll work with Marvel Studios at least one more time for this third installment in the superhero/sci-fi action-comedy series he's written and directed all three films in. Star-Lord (Chris Pratt), Gamora (Zoe Saldana), Drax (Tampa resident Dave Bautista), Nebula (Karen Gillan), Mantis (Pom Klementieff), Rocket (voiced by Bradley Cooper) and Groot (voiced by Vin Diesel) return, joined by new cast members such as Chukwudi Iwuji and Will Poulter.

Story continues

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'Book Club: The Next Chapter' (May 12)

After co-starring alongside Lily Tomlin, Rita Moreno and Sally Field in "80 for Brady" earlier this year, Jane Fonda reunites with another trio of talented actresses  Diane Keaton, Candice Bergen and Mary Steenburgen  in this sequel to 2018's surprise hit "Book Club." In "The Next Chapter," the four women head to Italy to celebrate the engagement of one of their book club's members.

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'Hypnotic' (May 12)

"Hypnotic."

Ben Affleck stars in this thriller as a detective who becomes entangled in a mystery involving his missing daughter, a secret government program and a string of reality-bending crimes. "Hypnotic" is directed by Robert Rodriguez, whose career has been split between children's movies (including the "Spy Kids" series) and R-rated works such as "El Mariachi," "From Dusk till Dawn," "Sin City" and "Machete," with this film falling into the latter group.

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'Fast X' (May 19)

"Fast X."

The blockbuster "Fast & Furious" street racing and action film franchise returns for its tenth installment, with fresh faces including Jason Momoa as the villain Dante and Brie Larson as new ally Tess. They'll join an ever-growing returning cast that includes  deep breath  Vin Diesel, Michelle Rodriguez, Jordana Brewster, Ludacris, Tyrese Gibson, Jason Statham, John Cena, Nathalie Emmanuel, Sung Kang, Charlize Theron and Dame Helen Mirren.

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'About My Father' (May 26)

One of two stand-up comedians' film vehicles set for release the same day, "About My Father" stars Sebastian Maniscalco (once called "the Hottest Comic in America" by the New York Times) as a man invited to a Fourth of July weekend celebration by his girlfriend's parents, with his Italian immigrant father (Robert De Niro) also in tow. This is the first movie starring Maniscalco, who's had supporting roles in films such as "Green Book" and "The Irishman."

'The Little Mermaid' (May 26)

"The Little Mermaid."

Disney's latest live-action remake is this adaptation of their 1989 animated classic, starring Halle Bailey of R&B sister duo Chloe x Halle as the mermaid princess Ariel and Melissa McCarthy as the villainous sea witch Ursula. Disney's live-action remakes have a lackluster track record thus far, but this one at least has a lead who can sing, and a director who can helm a musical: Rob Marshall, who also directed 2002's Best Picture Oscar-winning "Chicago."

'The Machine' (May 26)

Tampa-raised stand-up comedian Bert Kreischer, who recently had a headlining homecoming show at Amalie Arena, stars in this film inspired by his best-known story: becoming involved with the Russian mafia and robbing a train during a college trip while attending Florida State University. That past comes back to haunt him decades later in this action-comedy, co-starring Mark Hamill as his father.

'The Boogeyman' (June 2)

The latest cinematic adaptation of author and Casey Key resident Stephen King's work is this film based on his 1973 short story of the same name about a terrifying supernatural entity. Rob Savage, who previously made the pandemic Zoom session horror movie "Host," directs, with a script co-written by "A Quiet Place" screenwriters Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, and Shawn Levy of "Stranger Things" fame among the film's producers.

'Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse' (June 2)

"Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse."

The sequel to 2018's animated superhero film "Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse" follows Miles Morales/Spider-Man (voice of Shameik Moore) as he reunites with Gwen Stacy/Spider-Woman (voice of Hailee Steinfeld) and encounters more Spider-People. "Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse" was a pleasant surprise in terms of its quality  deservedly winning the Best Animated Feature Oscar  that this sequel will hopefully match.

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'Strays' (June 9)

In what looks like a R-rated take on "The Incredible Journey," this comedy follows a Border Terrier (voice of Will Ferrell) seeking revenge after being abandoned by his owner (Will Forte), pairing up with other strays including a Boston Terrier (voice of Jamie Foxx), an Australian Shepherd (voice of Isla Fisher) and a Great Dane (voice of Randall Park.) Hey, if nothing else, you'll get to watch a bunch of cute dogs.

'Transformers: Rise of the Beasts' (June 9)

The modern-day cinematic version of the transforming robots return for this new film inspired by the "Transformers: Beast Wars" franchise. "Creed II" filmmaker Steven Caple Jr. directs, after Michael Bay stepped down from the director's chair in the series following 2017's "Transformers: The Last Knight," with "In the Heights" star Anthony Ramos playing the lead human role in this movie.

'Elemental' (June 16)

"Elemental."

Pixar's latest animated film takes place in a city where elements live together, and the fire element Ember (voice of Leah Lewis) and water element Wade (voice of Mamoudou Athie) meet and form a relationship. Pixar's track record isn't as surefire as it once was, but its original films still tend to be stronger than its sequels, and hopefully that's the case here.

'The Flash' (June 16)

The titular Justice League member and superhuman speedster gets his own movie, with Michael Keaton also reprising his role as Batman in an alternate universe. "The Flash" has shifted release dates numerous times, during which time star Ezra Miller has been involved in several off-screen scandals, but DC apparently believes strongly in the movie, with James Gunn calling it "probably one of the greatest superhero movies ever made."

'No Hard Feelings' (June 23)

Jennifer Lawrence stars in this R-rated comedy as a woman who answers a Craigslist ad from two parents looking for someone to date their socially awkward son. "No Hard Feelings" is directed and co-written by Gene Stupnitsky, whose previous film was 2019's pretty funny "Good Boys," and it's nice to see an A-lister like Lawrence getting behind an R-rated comedy, at either rate.

'Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny' (June 30)

"Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny."

The 80-year-old Harrison Ford returns for supposedly the final time as whip-cracking adventurer Indiana Jones, joined by Phoebe Waller-Bridge as his goddaughter and Mads Mikkelsen as his new adversary. This will be the first "Indiana Jones" film not directed by Steven Spielberg, who serves as an executive producer, with James Mangold ("Logan," "Ford v Ferrari") moving into the director's chair.

'Insidious: The Red Door' (July 7)

The St. Pete-raised Patrick Wilson and Rose Byrne reprise their roles as Josh and Renai Lambert for the latest film in this horror franchise, as their son (Ty Simpkins) heads to college, only for repressed demons of the past to return. Wilson directs along with starring in the film, in what will be his directorial debut.

'Joy Ride' (July 7)

Ashley Park, Sherry Cola, Sabrina Wu and recent "Everything Everywhere All at Once" Oscar nominee Stephanie Hsu star in this R-rated comedy as four Asian-American women who travel through Asia to find one of their birth mothers. "Joy Ride" premiered earlier this year at South by Southwest, where it received highly positive reviews.

'Mission: Impossible  Dead Reckoning Part One' (July 14)

Tom Cruise returns as Ethan Hunt for the latest film in the action series, with other returning cast members including Rebecca Ferguson, Ving Rhames, Simon Pegg and Vanessa Kirby joined by new faces such as Hayley Atwell and Esai Morales. "Mission: Impossible" has become one of the most reliable franchises in Hollywood thanks in large part to Cruise's mind-boggling stunts, and judging by the ride off a cliff on a motorcycle that caps off the trailer, this entry should be no different.

'Barbie' (July 21)

"Barbie."

A movie based on a toy line normally wouldn't be cause for excitement, but then, they're not normally directed by filmmakers like Greta Gerwig, the Oscar-nominated writer-director behind "Lady Bird" and "Little Women." Gerwig co-wrote the film with her partner and fellow Oscar-nominated writer-director Noah Baumbach, with an ensemble cast including Margot Robbie as Barbie and Ryan Gosling as Ken.

'Oppenheimer' (July 21)

"Oppenheimer."

After working together on movies such as "Batman Begins," "Inception" and "Dunkirk," director Christopher Nolan and actor Cillian Murphy reunite for this film about the "father of the atomic bomb" J. Robert Oppenheimer, with Murphy playing the title role in a cast that also includes Emily Blunt, Matt Damon and Robert Downey Jr. A biopic of a scientist might sound uncharacteristically small for Nolan but, shot on IMAX cameras with a supposed three-hour running length, "Oppenheimer" will likely be as grand-scale as his other films.

'Haunted Mansion' (July 28)

After a poorly received 2003 movie starring Eddie Murphy, Disney tries again at bringing its Haunted Mansion theme park ride to the big screen, with Rosario Dawson, Owen Wilson, LaKeith Stanfield, Tiffany Haddish and Danny DeVito starring in this new version. The film has a low bar to clear to best its predecessor, and it does have an interesting director: Justin Simien, who previously directed the Sundance films "Dear White People" and "Bad Hair."

'Talk to Me' (July 28)

"Talk to Me."

Danny and Michael Philippou, the brother filmmakers behind the popular YouTube channel RackaRacka, direct this horror movie about a teen who takes part in a seance with an embalmed hand, which unleashes supernatural forces. A24 bought the movie at this year's Sundance Film Festival in a deal reportedly in the high seven figures, so it seems they think it could be a crossover horror hit like "Hereditary," the studio's highest-grossing film until this year's Best Picture Oscar winner "Everything Everywhere All at Once."

'Meg 2: The Trench' (Aug. 4)

Ever since "Jaws" kicked off the blockbuster blend, it never truly feels like the summer movie season without a shark flick, and this year we have the follow-up to 2018's Jason Statham-vs.-megalodon showdown "The Meg." The most intriguing part of this sequel is its director Ben Wheatley, who up until now has been best known for British horror and crime films including "Kill List" and "Free Fire."

'Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem' (Aug. 4)

The franchise centering on the titular characters that's already been made into multiple live-action and animated films gets its latest iteration, this one falling into the latter category. It also features the involvement of Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, stepping outside their usual R-rated lane, with Rogen also part of the voice cast along with "Neighbors" co-star Rose Byrne, John Cena, Jackie Chan, Ice Cube, Post Malone, Paul Rudd and Maya Rudolph.

'Gran Turismo' (Aug. 11)

This film is based on the true story of Jann Mardenborough (portrayed in the movie by Archie Madekwe), who went from playing the racing video game "Gran Turismo" to becoming a professional race car driver. It's an interesting variation on the standard video game movie, with a cast that also includes David Harbour and Orlando Bloom, a script by Oscar nominees Zach Baylin and Jason Hall, and "District 9" filmmaker Neill Blomkamp directing.

'The Last Voyage of the Demeter' (Aug. 11)

There's been no shortage of "Dracula" movie adaptations over the years  the horror-comedy "Renfield," starring Nicolas Cage as the Prince of Darkness, just came out this month  but this one takes an unique angle by adapting a single section of Bram Stoker's novel, the captain's log. Andre vredal, whose previous films include 2019's fellow August horror release "Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark," directs.

'Blue Beetle' (Aug. 18)

The titular DC superhero gets his own movie, as youngster Jaime Reyes (Xolo Mariduena) becomes Blue Beetle after discovering an alien biotechnological relic that gives him powerful exoskeleton armor. Initially intended to debut directly onto the streaming service HBO Max like the now-indefinitely shelved "Batgirl," "Blue Beetle" was instead given a full theatrical release, a move that hopefully speaks to the film's quality.

Email entertainment reporter Jimmy Geurts at jimmy.geurts@heraldtribune.com. Support local journalism by subscribing

This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: 27 biggest movies hitting Florida theaters this summer
Eight-year-old AMiyah Hughes, 9-year-old ZiAriel Robinson-Oliver, and 5-year-old TeMari Robinson-Oliver (Courtesy of the Oliver family)

Three young Black girls were strangled and left in a pond last summer in east Texas, and no arrests have been made in a case that advocates and experts believe has been severely mishandled by local authorities.

Nine-year old ZiAriel Robinson-Oliver, 8-year-old AMiyah Hughes, and 5-year-old TeMari Robinson-Oliver, known as the Oliver 3, were reported missing on July 28, 2022, in Atlanta, Texas. The girls cousin, Paris Propps, who was watching the three sisters and their siblings while their mother was at work, reported the girls missing around 9 p.m. Hours later, on July 29, all three bodies were found in a nearby pond.

Initially, authorities said it was a drowning. But in March, nearly eight months after the girls were last seen alive, the Cass County District Attorneys Office said in a statement that a homicide investigation is underway.

The girls' burial site. (Courtesy of the Oliver family)

Autopsy reports concluded the manner of death for all three girls was homicide, indicating evidence of strangulation. The girls also suffered lacerations to their faces, the press release obtained by Yahoo News from the Cass County District Attorneys Office said.

Now advocates are stepping in to demand answers. On April 3, Minister Quanell X, the leader of the New Black Panther Nation, traveled four hours from Houston to hold a press conference in Cass County and demanded that the FBI and Department of Justice step in to investigate. The FBI has not responded to a request for comment from Yahoo News.

Quanell X stood beside the mother of the Oliver sisters during the press conference. She was told that they drowned, but she always had a suspicious feeling that the girls did not drown. Well, her suspicions were confirmed by the autopsies, Quanell told Yahoo News.

The Cass County District Attorneys Office is currently working with the Texas Rangers and the sheriffs office to investigate the murders. Multiple witness statements have been obtained, DNA testing is ongoing, and the investigation will continue, according to a statement obtained by Yahoo News from the district attorneys office. Yahoo News contacted the office for additional information but a spokesperson declined to provide more details.

Story continues

According to U.S. Census data from 2022, Cass County has a population of 28,539 people, and advocates say the town does not have enough resources to investigate three homicides.

Quanell X in Houston, January 2008.

They were presumed drowned because of a sham investigation, a lazy investigation by investigators who obviously didn't have the resources, the training that was necessary to properly address an investigative crime scene, Quanell said.

Investigators are still searching for suspects, but experts say the months-long time lapse could have been avoided.

The usual time frame [for autopsies] depends, I would say within two weeks, David Thomas, professor of forensic studies at Florida Gulf Coast University, told Yahoo News.

But for small towns, they send those autopsies off to a whole different county, hours away from that county to do the autopsy, Quanell said.

However, the autopsy reports are just one piece of the puzzle. Thomas says more could have been done at the time investigators found the girls in the pond.

They sat and they made an assumption that they had drowned, which would be unusual for three people to drown at the same place, at roughly the same time  [it] doesnt make any sense, Thomas told Yahoo News. If it was Gabby Petito, the world would have come to a stop.

The graves of the Oliver sisters. (Courtesy of the Oliver family)

Revolt Black News weekly recently reported that authorities were aware that a crime had occurred soon after the incident, but just recently released the information to the public last month. However, they didnt say why they delayed sharing the info, the article stated.

At the end of the day, any seasoned investigators when they retrieved the bodies from the [pond] would have been able to see that this was more than some accidental drowning by the bruising on the faces and the necks of the girls, Quanell said.

Quanell believes the investigation is not a priority because the young girls are all Black. I think Cass County is doing what Cass County historically does when it comes to investigating injustice and murder involving Black people as victims. Theyre not taking this case seriously in my eyes, because its not three young white children, he said.

National statistics tell us that over 60,000 Black women are missing, and Black women are twice as likely than they appear to be victims of homicide, Brittany Lewis, co-founder of Research in Action, told Yahoo News in March.

Now experts say the investigation will be much harder because of the lengthy time lapse. That eight month time gap is devastating, David Carter, professor of criminal justice at Michigan State University and a former Kansas City, Mo., police officer, told Yahoo News.

The longer time between when the bodies are found and the investigation begins, the harder it is. Its harder to find suspects, certainly harder to find witnesses, and harder to find evidence, Carter said.

A Cass County sheriff's vehicle. (Cass County Sheriffs Office)

Carter says that as a former member of the law enforcement, theres no excuse for the delay in the investigation. Im really at a loss of why a criminal investigation wasnt started immediately, Carter said.

As authorities continue to investigate, advocates emphasize that whoever committed these crimes is still at large.

They could be anywhere, Thomas said. But I would say the likelihood that they knew that pond was there would probably give you an indication that it might be somebody local or somebody that's very familiar with the area.

This sounds like a very, very targeted personal crime, Carter added.

There have been no arrests in the nearly year-old case, but more people are pushing for justice. Recently, civil rights attorney Ben Crump and celebrities like Viola Davis and Niecy Nash shared a montage video on social media of the Oliver 3. The video was created by Black Girl Gone, a true crime podcast that sheds light on Black girls and women who are missing.

A child killer. A serial killer is on the loose. One who was not afraid to murder three children. And if you kill three you will kill more. Especially when you believe you will get away with it like this perpetrator has, Quanell said.

On April 26, Quanell and the New Black Panther Nation plan to host a town hall in Cass County, as they continue to seek justice for the Oliver sisters.
The children had been in Tennessee state care for nearly two months, placed in three separate homes before a family friend in Nashville took them in, consenting to act as a temporary foster parent.

Five Black children are now back home in Georgia with their parents after being taken from them following a traffic stop in Tennessee nearly two months ago.

State troopers stopped Bianca Clayborne and Deonte Williams in Coffee County on Feb. 17 for having dark tint and traveling in the left lane while not actively passing as they traveled from their suburban Atlanta home to a funeral in Chicago. According to the Tennessee Lookout, the Tennessee Department of Childrens Service subsequently took custody of the couples children, ages 7, 5, 3, 2, and 4 months old. The infant was still nursing

The Tennessee Highway Patrol detained Williams for possession after an officer reported smelling marijuana during the stop and discovering five grams while searching the familys vehicle. Marijuana possession is a misdemeanor offense in Tennessee, the Lookout reports.

Deonte Williams (far right) is shown with four of his children. These youngsters, who were taken from their parents along with their 4-month-old sibling after a February traffic stop in Tennessee, have returned home to Georgia after being placed in foster care. (Photo: Screenshot/YouTube.com/11 Alive News)

THP cited Clayborne but allowed her to leave with the kids. The mother has called the traffic stop a terrifying experience for her and her children.

Three DCS caseworkers greeted Clayborne as she and her youngsters arrived at the Coffee County Justice Center so she could post bond for Williams.

Social workers instructed her to leave the children in her car, go inside and provide a urine sample. Clayborne declined, alleging she was terrified to leave her kids with state caseworkers alone, prompting officers to put spike strips around the vehicle.

Clayborne claimed she offered to perform a urine test inside their Dodge, yet could not produce one.

Area caseworkers and police officers surrounded Clayborne when she brought her five children inside the judicial facility to post bond, then took the children away.

Since then, the kids had stayed in foster care. They were separated among three homes before being taken in by a family friend in Nashville who consented to act as a temporary foster parent to all five.

Story continues

The case prompted concerns about whether DCS acted appropriately when one parent faced accusations of a misdemeanor infraction  and whether the family experienced different treatment because they are Black.

Clayborne was unaware that DCS officials received an emergency order to take custody of the children. The order alleged probable cause of neglect and officials claimed there was nothing less drastic that they could do, according to the Lookout.

Days later, when the parents showed up in a Coffee County courthouse to try to get their kids back, they were ordered to submit to urine drug tests. Claybornes test for THC, the active ingredient in marijuana, was negative, and Williams tested positive. Both their tests returned positive for methamphetamines, fentanyl and oxycodone, but they denied using the narcotics.

An unknown party subsequently requested fast-turnaround hair follicle tests from the couple. A Coffee County administrator said the quick follicle test performed is not admissible in court as they are notorious for creating false positives.

DCS filed an amended allegation for severe child abuse against the couple based on the instant test results, the Lookout reported. The couples lawyers later subpoenaed the test, but DCS lawyer Sheila Younglove said it was no longer available.

DCS officials filed prosecution and sanctions motions against the embattled family after they shared details about the proceedings happening in juvenile court.

The gag order is still in effect, a DCS spokesperson said when asked to comment on the reunification of the family, according to the Lookout. We would refer you to the juvenile court.

Before taking custody of the children, the DCS had asserted that the youngsters revealed their father was known as the weed man, knew how to roll joints, and said their parents took them on drug deals. Williams referred to the allegations as absolute lunacy.

Courtney Teasley, the familys attorney, said that all five children returned home to Georgia on Thursday to be with their parents.

The family is planning a celebration in their hometown, Teasley said, according to the Lookout, adding that a news conference and celebration would be held in Nashville once the family has gotten to enjoy time together and reclaim so much unnecessary lost time.

TheGrio is FREE on your TV via Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku and Android TV. Also, please download theGrio mobile apps today!

The post 5 children taken from Black family after traffic stop returned home appeared first on TheGrio.
Lori Vallow Daybells criminal trial in its second week heard from key witnesses who revealed new details about the case.

Vallow Daybell, a 49-year-old Rexbug mother, and her husband, Chad Daybell, are charged with the first-degree murders of her two children  7-year-old Joshua Jaxon JJ Vallow and 16-year-old Tylee Ryan.

She is also accused of conspiring to murder JJ, Tylee and Chad Daybells then-wife, Tammy Daybell. Vallow Daybell faces a felony charge in Arizona as well for allegedly conspiring to kill her fourth husband, Charles Vallow.

Chad Daybell  whose trial date hasnt been set  also faces a first-degree murder charge in Tammy Daybells death.

The 18-person jury last week heard from eight witnesses, including Rexburg Police Det. Ray Hermosillo. He was the lead investigator during the months-long search for Vallow Daybells children and was on scene when the childrens remains were found. The children were found buried in shallow graves on Chad Daybells eastern Idaho property in June 2020.

Here are a few key details from last week. The trial is expected to last eight weeks.

Tammy Daybells death was ruled a homicide by asphyxiation.

Tammy Daybell died by asphyxiation

During opening statements, Fremont County Prosecutor Lindsey Blake announced the results of Tammy Daybells autopsy and told the jury that Tammy Daybells death was ruled a homicide by asphyxiation.

Though Tammy Daybells children told 48 Hours that shed been asphyxiated, it wasnt until last week that authorities publicly released her cause of death.

When Tammy Daybell died on Oct. 19, 2019, authorities initially believed that Tammy Daybell passed away peacefully in her sleep. But Fremont County Lt. Joseph Powell told the courtroom Wednesday that because of all the suspicious circumstances, police opened an investigation into her death and exhumed her body.

Powell said that Tammy Daybell appeared to be in pretty good health and was only 49 years old. He added that the investigation into the attempted shootings of Tammy Daybell and Brandon Boudreaux, Tylee and JJs uncle, and Chad Daybells relationship with Lori Vallow Daybell so soon after Tammys death prompted the death investigation.

Story continues

READ MORE: Money, power and sex: Prosecution lays out case in opening statement

Charles Vallow, Lori Vallow Daybells third husband and the father of Joshua Jaxon JJ Vallow. Charles Vallow was shot by Loris brother Alex Cox in Arizona in 2019.

Charles Vallow was shot lying down

Det. Nathan Duncan, who has been with the Chandler Police Department in Arizona for nearly 23 years, told the jury last week that Charles Vallow was struck with two bullets  but the second one wasnt fired until he was already lying on the ground.

Charles Vallow was shot and killed by Vallow Daybells brother Alex Cox, who claimed it was self-defense. But Arizona authoritiessaid they believe that Vallow Daybell and Cox conspired to kill Charles Vallow, according to the Arizona Republic.

Cox died from a blood clot in December 2019.

Duncan also said during his testimony there wasnt a lot of blood, which isnt typical in a shooting investigation. It didnt appear Charles Vallow was given CPR, though thats what Cox told police.

Vallow Daybells defense team objected to evidence and statements during Duncans testimony. They didnt cross-examine Duncan because they said they felt the evidence presented in his testimony was inadmissible.

Typically, in criminal trials, evidence that indicates other alleged or convicted crimes arent talked about. According to Idaho Rules of Evidence, evidence of a crime, wrong, or other act is not admissible to prove a persons character.

But it can be used when trying to prove motive, opportunity or intent.

Duncan during his testimony said that Charles Vallow was killed, but he didnt mention that Vallow Daybell faces a criminal charge in Arizona for allegedly conspiring to kill him.

Read More: Charles Vallow considered dark spirit, witness says.

Chad and Lori Vallow Daybell

Daybells believed dark spirits possessed family members

Vallow Daybells former friends  Melaine Gibb and Zulema Pastenes  during their testimonies last week provided a clearer picture of the Daybells fringe religious beliefs.

The Daybells, who were members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, had extremist beliefs the world was going to end in July 2020, and that they were a part of the 144,000 people who, according to the Book of Revelations, would be saved during the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.

Both Gibb and Pastenes participated in castings with Vallow Daybell, during which they would cast out certain people who had dark spirits. Gibb said that if an individual was properly casted out, theyd die, and Pastenes said a dark spirit could be kept out by binding or burning the body.

JJs body was found bound with duct tape, while Tylees body was found in pieces and her flesh was charred.

Pastenes later clarified during her testimony that the burning was a verbal command theyd say during the casting, and that there wasnt any physical burning.

They performed several castings on Charles Vallow, Pastenes said, because a new spirit would take over his body after they casted the other out. In text messages between Cox and Vallow Daybell in early 2019, they discussed Ned  the dark spirit they believed was possessing Charles Vallow  and said there must be a new spirit controlling him.

We needed to cast out the demon from Charles, Pastenes told the court during her testimony Friday. The Daybells and Cox also believed that Tammy Daybell, Tylee and eventually JJ were all dark, Gibb said.

READ MORE: Vallow Daybell told friend she could always put some pills in husbands water

Chad Daybell, who faces the death penalty, is charged with the first-degree murder of JJ, Tylee, and Tammy Daybell.

Chad Daybell called funeral home within hours of Charles Vallows death

The jury listened to Chad Daybell call an Arizona funeral home  on the same day Charles Vallow was killed  to get an estimate on a cremation.

In the brief phone call, Chad Daybell told a funeral home employee that his uncle John Daball had died, and that he wanted to know how much it would cost to get his body cremated and sent to New Orleans, Louisiana  where Charles Vallow is from.

Charles Vallow was shot and killed by Alex Cox on July 11, 2019.

READ MORE: Audio recording of Chad Daybell calling funeral home plays in court

Lori Vallow Daybell talks to police the day her fourth husband, Charles Vallow, was shot and killed by her brother, Alex Cox.

Charles Vallow accused Vallow Daybell of infidelity

Less than two weeks before Charles Vallow was shot and killed, he sent an email to Tammy Daybell informing her about the affair between their spouses.

He emailed Tammy Daybell on June 29, 2019, and said he had some vital and disturbing information regarding Chad and Lori Vallow Daybell, according to emails presented in court that were obtained by Arizona authorities. Charles Vallow also emailed Vallow Daybell and told her that hed be informing Tammy Daybell of the affair.

Its unclear whether Tammy Daybell ever read the emails.

You accuse me of infidelity, but its you who has been having an affair, Charles Vallow told Vallow Daybell in an email, which authorities obtained from Vallow Daybells iCloud account.

READ MORE: Charles Vallow accuses then-wife of having an affair, emails show
Curtis Sparrer, principal of Bospar Public Relations and Marketing. Courtesy of Curtis Sparrer

Five marketing experts discuss how inclusive marketing campaigns demand authenticity.

Celebrating heritage months should come with a genuine goal to uplift an underserved community.

They encourage seeking outside help from nonprofits or universities to ensure campaigns are tasteful and constructive.

This article is part of "Marketing for Small Business," a series exploring the basics of marketing strategy for SBOs to earn new customers and grow their business.

Growing up as a gay man in Texas, Curtis Sparrer said it was "tremendously validating and important" to him when he saw companies embracing gay visibility messages in their marketing.

Now, as principal of Bospar Public Relations and Marketing in San Francisco, Sparrer helps businesses of all sizes ensure that their marketing campaigns are inclusive and that messaging focusing on underserved groups is sensitive and authentic.

"I want all businesses to make people of all stripes feel warm and welcome," he told Insider. "It's important to do it with authenticity."

A common way many businesses strive to promote diversity and inclusivity is by celebrating heritage months or recognition days, like Black History Month, International Women's Day, or LGBTQ+ Pride Month, with social media posts and other marketing messages. While this can help raise awareness, Sparrer said small businesses should focus on diversity and inclusion all the time and reflect these values in their business practices.

According to a 2021 Meta study which surveyed 1,200 people and examined over 1,000 Facebook ads, more than 70% of consumers said they expect brands to promote diversity and inclusion in their online advertising, but 54% said they don't feel fully represented in the ads. Nearly 60% of the study group said they are more loyal to (and prefer to shop with) brands that support diversity and inclusion in their ads.

Sparrer emphasized authenticity as an important factor for businesses that want to celebrate or acknowledge heritage holidays. "There are times when something can be well-intentioned but could be wildly off," he told Insider. He and other marketing experts shared some tips for how to get started.

Story continues

Make inclusivity a core value

Lola Bakare, chief marketing officer adviser, inclusive marketing strategist, and author of "Responsible Marketing," told Insider that fostering a sense of belonging for employees, customers, and communities should always be central to how businesses operate and factored into their marketing messages. "Doing what's right is always what's best for the business," she said.

Beth Booker, CEO and founder of Gracie PR. Courtesy of Beth Booker

When a small business is crafting messaging focused on specific, often marginalized groups, Beth Booker, CEO and founder of Gracie PR in Naples, Florida, said they need to make sure that it's genuine; otherwise, it'll come across as the "brand using a demographic as a marketing tool."

"For example, if a brand is planning a campaign around Women's History Month, that brand also needs to practice what they preach 365 days a year by hiring women, paying women what they are worth, and providing postpartum support," she said.

Michelle Thames, founder of Thames Media Solutions. Courtesy of Michelle Thames

Authentic marketing resonates with people and is more likely to boost brand awareness, said Michelle Thames, founder of Thames Media Solutions in Chicago.

"It's definitely important to have a connection instead of just posting a meme and slapping up a picture, which doesn't really resonate," she told Insider. "You want your audience to trust you because you're standing behind a cause or holiday that you really support. It comes across as more authentic when it's presented as something you actually believe in."

Strive to make a difference

Lola Bakare, founder and chief marketing officer of be/co. Lola Bakare

When businesses celebrate heritage months, Bakare said they should take the opportunity to go beyond being a "cheerleader" for diversity. Instead, she encourages businesses to pay attention to issues affecting communities and become a "champion" or "catalyst" for solving problems and helping drive positive change.

For example, she suggests highlighting Black-owned businesses or sharing podcasts featuring women of color, rather than posting a stock image and a quote on social media for Black History Month.

Collaborating with an LGBTQ- or women-owned business on a social media giveaway, Instagram Live video, or other marketing campaign is another way to show support for a specific community in an authentic way, Thames said. "People want to hear other people's stories."

Abegail Cal, owner of AJC PR Courtesy of Abegail Cal

Raising awareness or money for nonprofits that align with a company's values and support specific causes is another approach, Abegail Cal, owner of AJC PR in Los Angeles, told Insider.

"If the nonprofit or charity is something that's near and dear to the company's heart, it's a good idea," she said. "Doing the research and seeing where exactly the fundraising money goes is so important."

Businesses should support causes year-round, though, not just during an awareness month, Sparrer said. "When you're going for a cause, whether it's women's reproductive rights, trans awareness, or suicide prevention, you need to make sure that you're doing it in a way that does no harm and does plenty of help."

Ask for help

Businesses should think about their target audience for any campaign and view the messaging and content through that audience's eyes, Booker said.

If hiring a marketing agency or consultant isn't in the budget, she suggested businesses look at their competitors' actions on heritage holidays. "Take stock of what they did that worked, what didn't, and how you can improve on what they did for your campaign."

Sparrer recommends seeking help from nonprofits, professional organizations, or colleges and universities within those communities to get feedback on ideas.

Ultimately, campaigns centered on heritage holidays should be focused on helping the community, Cal said, adding that businesses should involve individuals from different backgrounds in crafting the campaigns.

"It's really important to navigate these holidays with sensitivity because there is a fine line between doing something in a tasteful and genuine way, versus doing something that can appear completely out of touch, or just doing it because every other company or brand is also doing it," she said.

Read the original article on Business Insider
A new battle in the political war over former President Trumps indictment took place in New York on Monday.

House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan (R-Ohio), a key Trump ally, held a field hearing.

The hearings official title was Victims of Violent Crime in Manhattan  and several such victims did testify.

But the hearing was plainly aimed at Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg (D), who led the probe that resulted in Trumps indictment earlier this month on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records.

Here are the big takeaways from the four-hour hearing.

Trump loomed over everything

The centrality of the former president to the proceedings was obvious from the opening moments.

Jordan, in the process of making the broader argument that Bragg was too lenient on criminals, asserted that the scales of justice are weighed down by politics in Manhattan.

The GOP aimed to hit Bragg with a combination punch  arguing that the DA and his party are soft on crime, while also suggesting Bragg is wrongfully focused on Trumps alleged wrongdoing for partisan reasons.

Even many Trump critics believe the case against the former president looks flimsy.

Once Jordan turned the microphone over to Ranking Member Jerry Nadler (D-N.Y.), the issue of Trump came into even sharper relief.

Nadler insisted that the hearing was only taking place at all was because Jordan was doing the bidding of Donald Trump.

Nadler further charged that Republicans on the committee had designed the event to intimidate and deter the duly elected district attorney of Manhattan from doing the work his constituents elected him to do.

The shadow of Trump hung over the rest of the hearing.

Democrats tread carefully around witnesses

The Democratic members of the panel had to grapple with a politically delicate task  assailing the hearing itself but without making it seem as if they were also downplaying the experiences of key witnesses.

Those witnesses included Madeline Brame, who lost her son, Army Sgt. Hason Correa, in an especially brutal 2018 homicide. Brame is now the chairwoman of the Victims Rights Reform Council.

Story continues

She alleged that Bragg and his office had treated her family like garbage.

Also testifying was Barry Borgen, whose son was badly beaten in a 2021 antisemitic attack.

Republicans contended that the Democrats on the panel were being dismissive of those voices. Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) accused Democrats of engaging in a smear of brave New Yorkers.

Some Democrats on the panel struggled more assiduously than others in how to balance respect for the witnesses with skepticism of the proceedings.

Rep. Madeleine Dean (D-Pa.) said it was right and proper that the witnesses raise their voices.

But, addressing them directly, she added: There is an underlying sham going on here. I know you dont like to hear it. Your voices are important. But two things can be true at the same time.

A pitched battle over statistics

If any neutral observers were watching proceedings, they would surely have been confounded by the blizzard of statistics pointing in different directions.

Jordan in his introductory remarks referred to a 23 percent surge in major crimes in New York during 2022.

Jim Kessler of the moderate-liberal Third Way group contended that, New York is safer, on average, than Ohio, Texas and many other places.

Various other statistics were slung back and forth between the parties.

The hearing, in that respect, was a continuation of the ongoing battles between Bragg and Jordan.

Jordan has repeatedly asserted that Bragg has been soft on crime and that crime has risen as a result.

Bragg, in a legal filing suing Jordan last week, contended that homicides in New York City had declined 14 percent, year-on-year, as of this month.

One more battle in the culture wars

Mondays hearing was just one more battle in a much broader culture war.

Rep. Wesley Hunt (R-Texas) characterized Bragg as a woke district attorney aligned with liberal financier and philanthropist George Soros, as well as the Black Lives Matter movement.

A short time earlier, Rep. Dan Goldman (D-N.Y.) pressed Borgen, the father of the man who was beaten in an antisemitic attack, about whether verbal attacks on Bragg that referenced Soros were antisemitic. Though the witness averred in general terms, he agreed that one sign from an anti-Soros protester was plainly antisemitic.

There were, too, the attacks on the media that are commonplace on the most pro-Trump wing of the GOP.

Rep. Troy Nehls (R-Texas) during his remarks blasted the dishonest media.

You in the back, you are the greatest threat to this country, he told reporters.

Democrats seek to focus on guns

Democrats tried throughout the hearing to focus on the connection between crime and guns.

Rep. Adriano Espaillat (D-N.Y.) said of trying to address crime without putting guns front and center, You just cant do it.

At one point, Jordan contended that if Democrats cared so passionately about gun control, they should have done more to advance it when they held both chambers of Congress as well as the White House up until January.

That charge sparked an interjection from Nadler, who pointed to the impossibility of getting such legislation through the Senate without some degree of GOP support.

Because of the filibuster you needed 60 votes, and we got no Republican votes and thats why it didnt pass, the New York Democrat said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
60 Minutes via YouTube

Since OpenAI unleashed ChatGPT on the world, weve seen takes you people wouldnt believe. Some folks have claimed that chatbots have a woke agenda. U.S. Senator Chris Murphy tweeted that ChatGPT taught itself advanced chemistry. Even seasoned tech journalists have written stories about how the chatbot fell in love with them. It seems as though the world is reacting to AI the same way cavemen probably reacted when they saw fire for the first time: with utter confusion and incoherent babbling.

One of the latest examples comes from 60 Minutes, which threw its voice in the ring with a new episode focused on innovations in AI that aired on CBS Sunday. The episode featured interviews with the likes of Google CEO Sundar Pichaiand included questionable claims about one of the company's large language models (LLM).

One AI program spoke in a foreign language it was never trained to know. This mysterious behavior, called emergent properties, has been happening  where AI unexpectedly teaches itself a new skill. https://t.co/v9enOVgpXT pic.twitter.com/BwqYchQBuk  60 Minutes (@60Minutes) April 16, 2023

The topic of the clip is about emergent behavior, which describes an unexpected side effect of an AI system that wasnt necessarily intended by the models developers. Weve already seen emergent behavior spring up in other recent AI projects. For example, researchers recently used ChatGPT to create generative digital characters with goals and background in a study posted online last week. They observed the system performing multiple emergent behaviors such as sharing new information from one character to another and even forming relationships with one anothersomething the authors didnt initially have planned for the system.

Emergent behavior is definitely a worthwhile topic for a news show to discuss. Where the 60 Minutes clip takes a turn, though, is when were introduced to claims that Googles chatbot was actually able to teach itself a language it previously didnt know after it was prompted in that language. For example, one Google AI program adapted on its own after it was prompted in the language of Bangladesh, which it was not trained to know, CBS News correspondent Scott Pelley said in the clip.

Story continues

Turns out it was complete BS. Not only could the bot not learn a foreign language it was never trained to know, but it didnt teach itself a new skill. The entire clip spurred AI researchers and experts to excoriate the news programs misleading framing on Twitter.

Elon Musk Plots AI Firm to Rival ChatGPT, Which He Co-Founded

I sure hope some journalist does a review of the whole @60Minutes segment on Google Bard as a case study in how *not* to cover AI, Melanie Mitchell, an AI researcher and professor at the Santa Fe Institute, wrote in a tweet.

Stop Magical Thinking in Tech! It is not possible for an #AI to respond in Bengali, unless the training data was contaminated with Bengali or is trained on a language that overlaps with Bengali, such as Assamese, Oriya, or Hindi, M. Alex O. Vasilescu, a researcher at MIT, added in another post.

It's worth mentioning that 60 Minutes segment didn't say exactly what the AI they used was. However, a spokesperson from CBS told The Daily Beast that the clip was not a discussion on Bard but a separate AI program called PaLMthe underlying technology of which was later incorporated into Bard.

The reasons the segment was so frustrating to these experts is because it ignores and manipulates the reality of what a generative AI can actually do. It cant teach itself a language if it never had access to it in the first place. Thatd be like trying to teach yourself Mandarin but youve only ever heard it after someone asked you Mandarin once.

After all, language is incredibly complexwith subtle nuance and rules that require an incredible degree of context to understand and communicate with. Theres no way for even the most advanced LLM to grapple with and learn all of that through a few prompts.

Googles AI Chatbot Bard Spews Misinformation and Hate, Researchers Find

PaLM was already trained with Bengali, the predominant language of Bangladesh. Margaret Mitchell (no relation), a researcher at AT startup lab HuggingFace and formerly of Google, explained this in a tweet thread making the argument for why 60 Minutes was wrong.

Mitchell pointed out that, in a 2022 demo, Google showed that PaLM could communicate and respond to prompts in Bengali. The paper behind PaLM revealed on a datasheet that the model was indeed trained in the language with roughly 194 million tokens in the Bengali alphabet.

So it didn't magically learn anything via a single prompt. It already knew the language.

2. Google I/O 2022 featured the "PaLM" model. In their demo, they show how the model can be made to communicate in Bengali. Google stated in this demo that this was "teaching" the system Bengali. Here is the example. pic.twitter.com/ZnVkOyzMCR  MMitchell (@mmitchell_ai) April 17, 2023

Its unclear why Pichai, the CEO of Google, sat down for the interview and allowed these claims to go without any pushback. (Google did not respond to requests for comment.) Since the episode aired, hes stayed silent despite experts pointing out the misleading and false claims made in the segment. On Twitter, Margaret Mitchell suggested the reason why could be a combination of Google leadership not knowing how their products work and also that it's allowing shoddy messaging to propagate in order to tack on to the current hype around generative AI.

I suspect [Google executives] literally don't understand how it works, Mitchell tweeted. What I wrote above is likely news to them. And they're incentivised not to understand (close your eyes to that Datasheet!!).

The second half of the video can also be seen as problematic as Pichai and Pelley discuss a short story that Bard created that seemed so disarmingly human, it left both men looking somewhat shaken.

The fact is, that these products arent magic. Theyre not capable of being human because theyre not humans. Theyre text predictors like the ones you have on your phone, trained to come up with the likeliest word and phrases following a string of words in phrases. To say that they are could give them a level of authority that could be incredibly dangerous.

What Everyone Is Getting Wrong About Microsofts Chatbot

After all, users can use these generative AIs to do things like spread misinformation. Weve already seen this play out with deepfakes of peoples likenesses and even their voices.

Even a chatbot on its own can cause harm if it winds up producing biased resultssomething weve already seen with the likes of ChatGPT and Bard. Knowing these chatbots propensity to hallucinate and make up results, it could even be capable of spreading misinformation to unsuspecting users.

Research bears this out too. A recent study published in Scientific Reports found that human responses to moral questions can be easily swayed by arguments made by ChatGPTand users even grossly understated how much they were being influenced by the bots.

The misleading claims on 60 Minutes are really just a symptom to a larger need for digital literacy in a time when we need it the most. Many AI experts say that now, more than ever, is a time when people need to become aware of what exactly AI can and cannot do. These basic facts about bots need to also be effectively communicated to the broader public.

This means that the people with the biggest platforms and the loudest voices (i.e. the media, politicians, and Big Tech executives) have the most responsibility in ensuring a safer, more educated future with regards to AI. If we dont, then we might just wind up like those aforementioned cavemen, playing with the magic of fireand getting burnt in the process.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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An 8-year-old carefully wrote a message on a paper wrapper, placed it in a bottle and sent the bottle into the ocean. A decade later, the sweet message was rediscovered on a beach in Australia.

I found a message in a bottle, Rosalind Evans excitedly said in a Facebook video shared by Good Will Nurdle Hunting on April 11.

Evans was at a beach near Warrnambool volunteering with a cleanup group, according to the post. The volunteer group routinely collects plastic litter and other trash from the areas beaches.

The volunteers routinely find plastic bottles and bottle caps scattered along the shore. But a message in a bottle? Not so much.

The plastic bottle had a curled up piece of paper inside.

Evans brought the bottle back to the group and read the message, video shows.

My name is Ines Zepcan, the message said, I am 8 years old, whoever finds this bottle will have good luck for life from me and my family.

The volunteer group managed to find the now 18-year-old sender through Instagram, according to a post on April 14.

My siblings and I sent that bottle off a pier in Portland, Victoria, exactly 10 years ago! Zepcan told the group. By land, Portland is about 20 miles southwest of the Fitzroy River, where the bottle was found.

Zepcan told the group that the message in a bottle has really brought back a lot of memories for me and my family.

A handwritten note on the tattered paper.

Zepcan also acknowledged that putting a plastic bottle in the ocean was probably not the most environmentally friendly choice made by my eight year old self, according to the volunteer group.

Plastic bottles are one of the most common types of marine debris, according to National Geographic. Because plastics can take hundreds of years to break down, plastic debris can end up all over the world, the outlet reported.

Warrnambool is about 160 miles southwest of Melbourne.

Watch as an unwelcome guest enjoys relaxing afternoon by pool in California backyard

Ancient blob fossils arent jellyfish after all. Been looking at them upside down

Live 6-foot shark washes ashore on Outer Banks beach as visitors watch, video shows
Welcome to NC Voices, where leaders, readers and experts from across North Carolina can speak on issues affecting our communities. Send submissions of 350 words or fewer to opinion@charlotteobserver.com.

Why abortion access matters

Forty-two years ago I gave birth to my first child, a daughter we named Rachel. This was a planned, much desired pregnancy and for two years the world was ours.

Then, at age 2, Rachel was diagnosed with a genetic illness that my husband and I had never heard of. He is an Irish Catholic and I am of Ashkenazi Jewish descent. Rachel inherited a defective gene from both of us that gave her a rare variant of the disease.

Over the next four years we watched as our daughter lost her ability to walk, crawl, and sit up. Over the last year of her life she developed seizures, often uncontrollable. She died at age 6.

When I got pregnant again, Rachels doctors told me that if the fetus carried the affected genes from my husband and I, the child I gave birth to would experience the same devastating illness Rachel had. I was about 18 weeks pregnant when amniocentesis results showed that our second child was free from the disease.

Had the amniocentesis shown otherwise, I was prepared to have an abortion. I had a choice. I was lucky enough to live in New York City at the time, and my physician was willing to do the procedure if necessary.

I want all of the members of the North Carolina legislature to think about taking that choice away from others. Think about your votes and think about who they affect. Unless youve lived through the pain of watching your child suffer for four years and then die, Im not sure anyone can understand why the choice to have a second-term abortion is so important.

No child should have to live through what my daughter did.

Debra Teplin, Durham

Dont expand NC school vouchers

The writer is a Masters of Public Policy student at Duke University focused on education policy.

Rich students should receive a discount to attend private schools  at least thats what Republicans in the N.C. General Assembly believe.

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Senate Bill 406 would universalize the current means-tested voucher program, the Opportunity Scholarship Program, removing the income requirement and the stipulation that students previously attend public schools to obtain a voucher. With a veto-proof supermajority, N.C. Republicans are poised to expand vouchers and include funding for the bill in the 2023-24 budget.

A recent poll found that N.C. parents are frustrated by the quality of public schools and want the freedom to choose the best option for their children. However, a national school choice movement has sewn misconceptions that public schools are failing and private schools are the remedy. In fact, private schools, on average, have not improved outcomes for low-income students and public schools often under-perform because they are historically underfunded.

Under this bill, universal vouchers wont be equitably distributed. The average cost of private school tuition ($9,648) outpaces the value of the means-tested voucher ($6,492). As high-income and currently enrolled private school students become eligible, demand for vouchers is expected to increase while the number of seats available at private schools remains relatively the same. This will drive up the cost of tuition causing it to further exceed the value of the voucher. Working-class families will struggle to pay the difference, while affluent families take advantage of the discount.

Leandro rulings confirm that N.C. public schools have been underfunded for decades. From Bladen to Wake, rural and urban N.C. public schools are struggling to recruit and retain quality educators. Overcrowded classrooms and dated textbooks are the norm. School infrastructure is in disarray. For N.C. students, the foundation is crumbling, figuratively and literally.

Universalizing vouchers would result in further inequities. Yet, members of the NCGA would rather quadruple voucher funding to subsidize private school for wealthy students instead of adequately supporting public education for all students.

Reallocating money to benefit the wealthy at the detriment of the working class is not an efficient use of taxpayer dollars. If N.C. parents want comprehensive education for their children, for all children, they must demand the NCGA adequately fund public education and reject universal vouchers.

Kevin ONeil, Durham
Christopher Keeley, 27, appeared in Plymouth District Court on Friday, Dec. 16, 2022 to face two charges of murder.

BROCKTON  He's accused of brutally killing a Marshfield couple in their own home and suffocating their pet dog, but prosecutors provided no clear answers as to why 28-year-old Christopher Keeley would have committed the crimes at a superior court arraignment this week.

Keeley, of Weymouth, went before a judge in Brockton on Tuesday to face two counts of murder and additional charges of animal cruelty, car theft and fraudulent use of a credit card. He was indicted on the charges by a Plymouth County grand jury earlier this year and has been in jail since his district court arraignment in December.

Keeley, represented by Attorney Thomas Iovieno, pleaded not guilty on all charges. He was ordered held without bail at Tuesday's hearing, where a dozen family members of the victims watched on. Keeley is due back in court in Plymouth on June 29.

Police say Keeley killed Carl and Vicki Mattson, both 70, inside their Marshfield home just after Thanksgiving. He is also accused of killing the family dog by locking it inside the oven.

Carl and Vicki Mattson, both 70, were killed in their home in Marshfield on Nov. 29, 2022.

Assistant District Attorney Amanda Fowle told the court that Keeley knew the Marshfield couple because he was friends with their adult son, who now lives in Arizona. Keeley lived with the Mattsons "for some time" in the fall of 2022, Fowle said, but had since moved out.

It was a fight with friends on Thanksgiving Day that pushed Keeley to Marshfield, Fowle said. The Weymouth woman with whom he was staying asked him to leave following the argument, and friends drove Keeley to the home at 75 Gotham Dr. His friends dropped him off and later told police Keeley "was indicating that if things in his life didn't change, he might hurt or seriously kill someone," Fowle said.

The prosecutor said it sounded like Keeley snuck into the Mattson home on the evening of the 24th and into an upstairs bathroom. The couple was arguing downstairs about their dog's barking, which led Carl up the stairs to check on the dog. He found Keeley, and a physical fight followed. Carl Mattson was found dead at the bottom of the stairs.

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"There is no further information as to how Mrs. Mattson became involved in the struggle, but she was found in a room near the struggle," Fowle said. "There was a knife sticking out of her neck at the time she was found."

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Friends told police they heard from Keeley briefly via Facebook the next day, when he sent a message saying there was a "1% chance" the Mattsons were still alive. Surveillance footage shows Keeley met with friends that day at the Quincy Walmart parking lot while driving the couple's Jeep, Fowle said, and video shows he may have had help cleaning out the car.

"The defendant himself, his clothing and his boots were covered in what appears to be blood," Fowle said "He was brought a change of clothes so he could change." He spent the next few days staying with friends and used the Mattson's credit card at a bank in Weymouth and to buy a bus ticket out of state, Fowle said.

Other friends who could not get in touch with Keeley called Marshfield police on the 26th requesting a wellbeing check on him at the Gotham Drive address. The home appeared empty, the car was gone, nobody answered the door, and nothing was amiss outside, police said. Officers were able to contact a family member of the Mattsons, who said Keeley no longer lived there, so police left the home.

On Nov. 29, a wellbeing check was called in for the Mattsons at the same address and police returned, entered through the front door and found both bodies.

"The knife is discovered, the amount of blood is found, and the investigation starts in earnest at that time," Fowle said, adding that Keeley's palm print was lifted from the knife.

Later, when crime scene technicians returned to continue processing the scene and start cleaning up, they found the body of the family dog inside the oven. A necropsy determined it had died from lack of oxygen.

Keeley, who was 27 at the time, took a bus from South Station in Boston to Georgia and later to Florida. He was arrested in Miami Beach on Dec. 2. He appeared before a judge in the Florida 11th Circuit Court via Zoom and agreed to be brought back to Massachusetts to stand trial.

Quincy: Developer unveils long-awaited plans for 2-story restaurant, housing downtown

More: 'Cutting-edge museum,' library planned for Adams Presidential Center downtown

At the time of the slayings, Cruz said Keeley had "prior involvement" with the court system and that mental health issues could be at play.

A search of Quincy District Court records showed five cases that have gone through the system in the past decade, including charges of assault, malicious destruction of property and breaking and entering. Court documents revealed a lengthy rap sheet that started when Keeley  for whom court records show addresses in Quincy and Weymouth  was 18.

Reach Mary Whitfill at mwhitfill@patriotledger.com.

Thanks to our subscribers, who help make this coverage possible. If you are not a subscriber, please consider supporting quality local journalism with a Patriot Ledger subscription. Here is our latest offer.

This article originally appeared on The Patriot Ledger: Accused killer in Marshfield Mattson murders arraigned in Brockton
You are here: Business

China's telecommunication giant Huawei will upgrade Bangladeshi state-run cellphone operator Teletalk's network to ensure better coverage in rural areas and 5G readiness.

Huawei said it will facilitate Teletalk with new 4G sites, core network, IP network, charging and billing system modernization solution. In this connection, both sides signed an agreement on April 13 in Dhaka.

Speaking at the signing event, Pan Junfeng, CEO of Huawei Technologies (Bangladesh) Limited, said "previously, we partnered with Teletalk to launch 5G for the first time in Bangladesh. It was a great achievement."

"We hope this agreement will help the nation to increase the pace of achieving the vision of Smart Bangladesh," Pan said.

Managing Director of Teletalk Bangladesh Limited A.K.M Habibur Rahman said they want to diversify their network so that everyone nationwide can access high-speed connectivity. Huawei has fantastic technologies, solutions and teams to support Teletalk in meeting its ambition.

"We feel pleased to partner with Huawei and upgrade our network nationwide. We aim to finish the project by mid-2024," he further said.

In December 2021, Teletalk introduced 5G in Bangladesh in collaboration with Huawei.

Huawei has served in Bangladesh for around 25 years and has been serving Teletalk with new technologies adapting to its need since 2004.
Photo Illustration by Luis G. Rendon/The Daily Beast/Associated Press

Over the last week, an Idaho jury has heard prosecutors argue that Lori Vallow killed her two children and her husbands former wifeand that her doomsday-focused faith allegedly fueled the 2019 slayings, which they say were premeditated.

But legal experts tell The Daily Beast that the decision to showcase how Vallows long-held beliefs in a renegade branch of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saintswhich took an extremist turn after meeting her husband, Chad Daybellmay prove to be a double-edged sword for the prosecution.

I think it was a mistake for the prosecution to focus on the religion aspect, Janet Johnson, a criminal defense attorney who is not associated with the case, said on Monday. I think the theme they opened with is that she was motivated by money, power, and sex and not open the door to sympathy or a possible insanity defense.

Prosecutors allege that Vallow, 49, and her husband murdered her two children, 7-year-old Joshua JJ Vallow and 17-year-old Tylee Ryan, in September 2019 before burying their bodies in Daybells backyard. About a month later, prosecutors allege, the couple conspired to fatally strangle Daybells first wife, Tammy Daybell, for an insurance and social security payout before moving to Hawaii and getting married.

Doomsday Author Compared Himself to Harry Potter in Bizarre Love Messages to Lori Vallow

Vallow, who is standing trial alone after Daybells legal team asked to separate their cases, has pleaded not guilty to several charges. She faces a maximum sentence of life in prison if convicted.

Legal experts previously told The Daily Beast that the decision to separate the cases may prove to benefit Vallow as her team sets out to convince a jury that she is not responsible for the grisly crimes. Daybell, a former grave digger turned Mormon apocalyptic novelist, is set to stand trial after Vallow and faces the death penalty.

Already the defense is trying to push against the prosecutions allegations against Vallowand paint her as a kind and loving mother with some countercultural ideals.

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The evidence will show Lori had an interest in religionespecially the end of times, defense lawyer Jim Archibald said during opening statements last week. Some people could care less about biblical prophecies, some people care a lot about it. Thankfully in this country, we get the freedom to choose.

Throughout the first week of trial, however, prosecutors seemed to hone in on Vallows religioncalling her former sister-in-law and one-time best friend to the stand to discuss the mothers faith, which was filled with apocalyptic scenarios, fears of zombies, and the belief that she and Daybell were set to be leaders for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.

Carole Lieberman, a forensic psychiatrist who has previously testified in murder trials, believes the decision to bring in Vallow and Daybells religion early is a strategic move because it leaves the defense with few options for their case.

The defense attorneys in Lori Vallow Daybells case have an uphill battle, Lieberman told The Daily Beast. The question is whether Lori truly believed these ideas or whether she was just pretending to believe them in order to use them as an excuse to get rid of people who were making it less convenient for her to go off into the sunset with Chad Daybell.

Johnson noted that it would be a losing argument to try to convince jurors that Vallows beliefs are normal and stressed that the best counter-argument would be to focus the blame on Daybell and her mental health.

Probably the most famous cult murders are the [Charles] Manson girls, but in those cases, the defendants were still under Mansons influence and were not willing to point the finger at Manson, the defense attorney said, noting that it may have been a mistake for Vallows defense attorney to tell the jury last week they are only to focus on Loris actions, not on Chads.

The defense, however, may pivot their argument after last weeks testimony.

Melanie Gibb, who met Vallow at a church event in 2018, detailed to jurors on the stand how her former friends religious beliefs intensified after she met Daybell at a Utah conference. At the first meeting, Gibb said, Vallow revealed that she and Daybell were meant to be together despite already being married to other people.

Doomsday Mom Goes on Trial. Will She Turn on Her Guru Hubby?

Gibb also explained how Vallow believed she and Daybell were among the 144,000 people who would be on Earth when Jesus Christ returned. Soon, she said, Vallow began to preach about a light and dark scaleand that if a person had turned dark they would become a zombie.

When Lori met Chad, she was smitten and willing to do whatever it took to snare him. Chad felt the same, Lieberman said. So, it was easy for them to [allegedly] use their quasi-delusions to kill and to convince others to do the dirty work.

Vallow would eventually reveal that she believed her former husband, Charles, one of her brothers, and two of her children were considered dark. Charles Daybell was ultimately killed by Loris brother, Alex Cox, in July 2019who claimed self-defense before he died of a blood clot months later.

Zulema Pastenes, who was briefly married to Cox, also described the religion she once shared with Vallow and Daybell in detail on the stand. She testified that Vallow would boast to her friends that she was visited by Jesus Christ and that she believed her two children had been possessed and attacked by demons before their death. Vallow also allegedly told Pastenes how to dispel or cast out a possessed personand how Daybell would describe himself as an important acolyte in their religious community.

Chad claimed he had been [the] heavenly father and Jesus and Holy Ghost, Pastenes said. He would have been spiritually the highest of anybodyHe had chosen [Vallow] to be his wife and they had already been seven times before on this earth That was his companion and therefore put her in the same spiritual standing.

Notably, Vallows team cannot plead insanity in this case because the state of Idaho does not have a formal defense for it after it was repealed in 1982. A potential mental illness, however, could still be used as a factor in sentencing.

Johnson said that for Vallow to prevail in court her team will need to convince a jury that she is not a doomsday zealot who believed she was a prophetessbut just very mentally ill.

The case was already put on hold because Vallow was found incompetent to stand trial, Johnson noted. Because she and Daybell are being tried separately, her team can point to Daybell as a Svengali who preyed on Vallow, getting her to do what she would not have done without her mental illness and his influence.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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NEW LONDON  A 59-year-old Norwich convicted felon accused of stock-piling a cache of automatic weaponry and homemade pipe bombs in his city apartment rejected a plea offer and will take his case to trial.

Inside New London Superior Court on Tuesday, Public Defender Michael Miller said his client, Andrew Cook, formerly of 165 Prospect St., would not accept a plea deal proffered by the state.

Police said they found two live pipe-bombs, as well as a fully-loaded AR-15 rifle at Cooks boarding house residence in 2021 when they responded to two disturbance reports on the same day.

Cook, who has prior convictions for illegal weapons and explosives possession, is charged with two counts of illegal bomb manufacturing, two counts of criminal possession of a firearm, three counts of possession of high-capacity magazines and one count of illegal alteration of a firearm identification.

Plea offer was for two counts and 12 years

Senior Assistant States Attorney Thomas DeLillo said his office weeks ago forwarded a plea offer that called for Cook to plead guilty to one count each of illegal bomb manufacturing and criminal possession of a firearm in exchange for a total prison term of 12 years  two of which are mandatory under state statute  and five years of probation. A $5,000 fine would also be levied as part of the deal.

DeLillo noted that if Cook was convicted at trial on all counts, he faces a maximum prison term of 66-and-a-half years, eight of which are mandatory.

Cook told Judge Hillary Strackbein he understood the ramifications of taking his case to trial and inquired about a suppression motion filed by Miller in late 2022.

More: Norwich man accused of stockpiling weaponry moved to New London court. What police found.

In that motion Miller seeks, based on federal and state constitutional privacy grounds, to exclude all evidence seized by Norwich police as part of a search and seizure warrant.

Norwich officers were initially called to the Prospect Street residence on Feb. 28, 2021 by Cook who reported an intruder attempting to gain access to the house, according to police reports. Officers, after departing the scene, returned a short time later in response to a report of a loud argument involving Cook and a housemate, according to police.

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Police said Cook made numerous threats to shoot the victim as well as officers on scene, the report states. Police said they noticed what appeared to be a gun part in the basement in the process of being manufactured, which led to a warrant search of Cooks room, along with the homes basement and exterior garage.

Background: Police: Bombs, assault rifle and body armor seized from Norwich felons residence

Weapons found in Cook's residence

Police said they found a fully-loaded and working AR-15 assault rifle  with a round in the chamber  in a drawer under a bed of Cooks second-floor room, along with two attached loaded 30-round magazines. Three more loaded magazines were found nearby, police said.

Police said the serial number on the weapon had been removed and painted over. The lower receiver of another AR-15 was found on a workbench, its serial number removed and replaced with an image of a person holding the middle finger with the words Heres your serial number, a police report stated.

Two live PVC pipe bombs loaded with gunpowder and shrapnel were located in a closet, as was a partially completed device, police said. Police said they also found a bag containing several hundred rounds of empty shell casings, gun powder and bullet projectiles, along with body armor.

When being escorted to a police cruiser after his arrest, Cook allegedly threatened an officer.

Youre gonna learn the wrath of god when your f------ head gets blown off, Cook said, according to a search and seizure warrant affidavit and application. 

Cook has previous convictions stemming back to 2000 for the illegal possession of explosives and multiple counts of criminal possession of a weapon. He is being held on a $200,000 bond.

John Penney can be reached at jpenney@norwichbulletin.com or at (860) 857-6965

This article originally appeared on The Bulletin: Norwich felon accused of caching bombs and weapons rejects plea offer
The human-rights situation in Cuba has deteriorated dramatically, with the country holding more than a thousand political prisoners amid a crackdown on freedom of expression and association that poses a unique challenge in the Americas, several Cuban dissidents, activists, journalists and artists, as well as Organization of American States officials, said during an event hosted by the regional organization in Washington on Tuesday.

The Cuban case is different from other countries because the violations of freedom of expression and association are of systematic and widespread origin, part of the mechanisms through which the regime maintains power, and it is a state policy to deny citizens basic freedoms, said Edgar Stuardo Ralon Orellana, who is charged with reporting on the rights of persons deprived of liberty in the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, which is part of the OAS.

Ralon Orellana said the commission had received several complaints and documented several strategies the Cuban government deploys to deny freedom of expression and censor critics, among them arbitrary detentions, interrogations, internet censorship, travel bans and threats to family members.

These are not new strategies, and they continue to deteriorate rapidly, he said, adding that while Cuba is not an active member of the OAS, it is one of its founding members and is still bound under the organizations charter to comply with the recommendations made by the commission.

OAS Secretary Luis Almagro said Cuba should not be an exception in the Americas.

The situation of Cuba and the political prisoners cannot be made invisible, he said. We have an important role to play. Cubans have a right to democracy.

According to Prisoners Defenders, a Madrid-based organization, there are currently 1,066 political prisoners in Cuba, a number that skyrocketed after the islandwide protests on July 11, 2021. Among them there are 17 minors sentenced under sedition convictions, the organizations president, Javier Larrondo, said.

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Now the prisons in Cuba have people who were not dissidents but simple families who took to the streets to demonstrate, he said. This repression is not occasional, it is structural.

The Cuban government does not recognize political prisoners, arguing they have all committed common crimes. Larrondo said many of the crimes punished under current Cuban law are vaguely defined and would not be considered as such in democratic countries.

While the number of prisoners reported by Prisoners Defenders cannot be independently confirmed because the Cuban government does not provide official numbers nor allow international observers to visit Cuban prisons, the figure is in line with the one reported by other civil society organizations.

Larrondo said the treatment the July 11 protesters received violated legal standards, because many were sentenced after summary trials, were arrested under orders of police officers, not judges, and did not have access to independent lawyers but lawyers working for the Cuban state.

In pre-recorded videos, long-term Cuban dissidents Berta Soler, Marta Beatriz Roque and Ivan Fernandez Carrillo warned of a wave of increased repression on the island and shared their concerns about the treatment opposition members Jose Daniel Ferrer and Felix Navarro are receiving in prison. They were both imprisoned for participating in the July 11 protests.

They said Ferrer, the leader of the opposition organization UNPACU, has been in isolation in a prison cell in a facility in Santiago de Cuba and that both he and Navarro have been denied medical care.

In a series of presentations, Cuban activists shared personal accounts of how government repression has impacted their lives while providing analytical insights on the patterns Cuban authorities follow to quash dissent. In particular, they highlighted how the government has censored the arts, harassed independent journalists and artists and ultimately sent the leaders of the San Isidro Movement, a loose collective of young artists, academics and activists, to jail.

Cuban visual artist Anyelo Troya shared pictures documenting the surveillance by Cuban officials while he was serving a one-year home detention sentence after he was convicted of public disorder charges for participating in anti-government protests on July 11.

He said he had never met the police officers who made the accusation against him, which was enough to convict him. He said he was beaten in jail and his family members threatened.

He also shared images of his work with artists Luis Manuel Otero Alcantara and rapper Maykel Osogbo Castillo in the production of the video clip for Patria y Vida (Homeland and Life), the song that later became an anthem for the protesters. Both men are currently in prison for participating in the anti-government demonstrations.

In a presentation focused on how the Cuban government has crushed independent artists, Anamely Ramos, a Cuban activist and art professor, referred to a letter recently written by 15 Cuban women imprisoned who demanded freedom and signed with their blood.

As much as I think about it, I cannot think of a greater example of culture: people who have sacrificed their well-being and even personal freedom for a greater good for themselves, for a future for all. I cant think of anything less artistic either, she said. In Cuba, there is no greater art than surviving the state violence in which one is born.

Ramos, whom Cuban authorities have not allowed to return to the island because of her activism, also detailed how the harassment of critics works on the island: it starts with getting fired from the persons state job, followed by interrogations in which state security officials pretend to be friendly at first, she said, and then escalate into open threats, public acts of repudiation, home detention or fabricated crimes that lead to serving time in prison or exile to avoid going to jail.

The use of public spaces is particularly punished, she said, recalling the five-year sentence imposed to Luis Robles, a young man who held an anti-government sign in a Havana street.

She told the Herald that activists worried about the health of Otero Alcantara too. He frequently faints and during one of these blackouts, he fell and damaged his knee. His fate, and that of Grammy award winner Castillo, opposition leader Ferrer and hundreds of other Cubans imprisoned for participating in peaceful protests hang on the will of Cuban authorities to release them, though they have given no sign so far that they will do so, several European and American diplomats have told the Herald.

Cuban officials have insisted the island was unjustly included in the list of countries that sponsor terrorism and have demanded its delisting. But the U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken recently said during a congressional hearing that the government does not meet the conditions for its removal.

Frank Mora, the U.S. ambassador to the OAS, who helped organize the event, told the Herald the organization will continue pressing members to have discussions about Cuba.

Unfortunately the international community ignores or has abandoned the Cuban people, he said. In the OAS there is no consensus to follow up on the Cuban drama as is being done in the Nicaraguan case. The United States mission is committed to ensuring that the organization and the international community do not forget what is happening in Cuba.

The situation in Cuba has been going on for more than six decades and people get tired, but that is not an excuse to simply ignore the Cuban tragedy, he added.

For more than two years the OAS, the worlds oldest regional organization, had no U.S. representative. After his appointment last December, Mora told reporters he wanted to help revitalize the organization and focus on strengthening democratic values in a region where populism and authoritarianism are on the rise.

But such efforts have at times encountered pushback from some countries in the region.

Uruguays ambassador to the OAS, Washington Abdala, said during the event Tuesday that he faced reluctance from other members when he wanted to organize a similar event about Cuba.

Human rights violations concern the entire international community and cannot be downplayed, said Cuban journalist Monica Baro, who was one of the presenters. I urge the international community not to romanticize authoritarian regimes.

Sometimes Cuba can seem like a pretty exhausting subject, she said, but I assure you that we Cubans are the most exhausted in this story.
Sundar Pichai and Sam Altman. Ramin Talaie/Getty Images and Kimberly White/Getty Images for GLAAD

Generative artificial intelligence has undergone rapid advances in recent months.

The launch of OpenAI's ChatGPT has prompted some tech companies to increase their focus on AI.

However, not everyone is feeling optimistic about the new technology.

The tech world's obsession with generative artificial intelligence shows no signs of cooling off.

A wave of consumer enthusiasm following the launch of OpenAI's viral ChatGPT has prompted some major tech companies to pour resources into AI development and launch new AI-powered products.

But not everyone is feeling optimistic about the highly intelligent technology.

Last month, several high-profile tech figures, including Elon Musk and Steve Wozniak, threw their weight behind an open letter calling for a pause on developing advanced AI. The letter cited various concerns about the consequences of developing tech more powerful than OpenAI's GPT-4, including risks to democracy.

Senior figures at some tech companies like Google and even OpenAI itself have pushed back against aspects of the letter, highlighting issues with some of its technical points and practicality.

Here's what tech executives are saying about the potential dangers of advanced AI tech.

Elon Musk

Elon Musk has been cautious about AI for some time.

Back in 2018, the billionaire memorably said AI was more dangerous than nuclear warheads. "It scares the hell out of me," he said during a conference.

Since then, Musk has doubled down on some of his doomsday predictions. In a recent interview with Tucker Carlson, Musk said AI had the potential to destroy civilization.

"AI is more dangerous than, say, mismanaged aircraft design or production maintenance or bad car production. In the sense that it has the potential  however small one may regard that probability  but it is non-trivial and has the potential of civilization destruction," he said.

Despite Musk's rhetoric, Insider's Kali Hays previously reported that Musk is in the midst of establishing his own generative AI project. The billionaire has founded a new company called X.AI, per the Financial Times.

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Sundar Pichai

Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai told CBS in an interview for "60 Minutes" that AI would one day "be far more capable than anything we've seen before."

Pichai said the speed of AI development and concerns about deploying it in the wrong way kept him awake.

"We don't have all the answers there yet, and the technology is moving fast," he said. "So does that keep me up at night? Absolutely."

Pichai also addressed the open letter last month. He told The New York Times Hard Fork podcast: "I think there is merit to be concerned about it."

"So I think while I may not agree with everything that's there in the details of how you would go about it, I think the spirit of it is worth being out there," he added.

Sam Altman

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has said he's a "little bit afraid" of AI.

"I think it's weird when people think it's like a big dunk that I say I'm a little bit afraid," Altman told podcast host Lex Fridman during a March episode. "And I think it'd be crazy not to be a little bit afraid, and I empathize with people who are a lot afraid."

In an earlier interview with ABC News, Altman said that "people should be happy" that his company was "a little bit scared" of the potential of artificial intelligence.

Demis Hassabis

DeepMind, a subsidiary of Google's parent company Alphabet, is one of the world's leading AI labs. The company's CEO, Demis Hassabis, has also been urging caution around AI development.

"I would advocate not moving fast and breaking things," Hassabis told Time in January, referring to an old Facebook motto coined by Mark Zuckerberg, which encouraged engineers to approach work with speed and experimentation.

"When it comes to very powerful technologies  and obviously AI is going to be one of the most powerful ever  we need to be careful," he said. "It's like experimentalists, many of whom don't realize they're holding dangerous material."

In a recent interview with "60 Minutes," Hassabis said there was a possibility AI might become self-aware one day.

"Philosophers haven't really settled on a definition of consciousness yet but if we mean self-awareness, and these kinds of things ... I think there's a possibility that AI one day could be," he said.

Read the original article on Business Insider
MILAN  As technological improvements make drones smaller, more affordable and harder to detect, manufacturers of counter-drone technologies say defenses need to be effective regardless of type, aka drone agnostic.

China established itself as a leader in the public safety marketplace, primarily through the production of commercial drones from Da Jang Innovations, known as DJI. A 2019 report found that 73 percent of public safety unmanned aerial systems operators in the U.S. were flying the DJI Mavic series, and by 2021, the company reportedly controlled as much as 90 percent of the North American consumer market.

Rising geopolitical tensions have frayed relations between the U.S. and China, and American government officials are expressing alarm over the widespread use of Chinese UAS in the country. In a letter to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency sent in March, lawmakers warned that DJI could be providing richly detailed, regularly updated pictures of our nations pipelines, railways, power generation facilities and waterways, to the Chinese government.

Pentagons counter-drone boss tackles rising threat

Matt McCrann, CEO of DroneShield, an Australian and U.S. maker of the DroneGun and other counter-UAS tech, said that while Chinese products still dominate in this market, any C-UAS system must be able to defend against any type of drone.

C-UAS solutions need to be drone agnostic, meaning that they can detect, and when authorized, defeat more than just DJI drones, he said.

The company this month introduced the DroneGun Mk4, a portable countermeasure with enhanced range and upgraded features such as low-size weight and power (low-SWaP).

The expansion of use cases across federal agencies is primarily due to the rise of drones being used to carry out criminal activities in or around airports, prisons and other critical infrastructure, creating an ever-present potential threat. Full production of the Mk4 is expected to be reached in the second half of 2023.

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We are seeing a significant uptick in the number of federal end-users [for DroneGuns] both domestic and international who have active counter-drone requirements and whose authority to operate is expanding, said Tom Branstetter, director of business development at DroneShield.

Drone guns in Ukraine

Anti-drone guns have gained important traction as effective gap-fill or last mile countermeasure. More companies are coming out with their own versions, such as a recent new player in this space, Ukraines Kvertus Technology. The firm has developed the KVS G-6, which uses radio-signals to jam Russian systems.

We are starting to see a lot of consolidation in the C-UAS space, with now a lot of quality systems available today. But, there is not a one-size-fits-all approach to the challenge of drone threats, Branstetter said. The key is the ability to implement those technologies collaboratively and in a way that provides the greatest level of capability while simultaneously meeting key customer requirements.

DroneShields guns have reportedly been used by the Ukrainian military since the early days of the war. When asked whether the latest variant would be provided to troops, McCrann said that the Mk4 has a clear application for Ukraine and can add immediate value to their counter-drone efforts, well continue to standby to support however we can.

Key considerations of the platform that could be beneficial for the Ukrainians and other end-users is its overall form factor and component design. Not wanting to burden users with having to learn and operate an overly complex system, especially as they often operate multiple technology kits in the field, it is designed to leverage muscle memory established with other weapons.

It provides similar components that are very familiar to military and security personnel. This familiarity becomes especially important when under stress, the design simplicity allows any operator to deploy it at a moments notice, Branstetter said.

Army counter-drone office recommends 3 teams to protect installations

Shrinking the form factor of any C-UAS weaponry can lead to trade-offs, including limiting the range at which they are effective, forcing operators in some cases to get closer to the threat to neutralize it.

As for the future of this technology, the company executives said that users need layered options to stay ahead of developing threats, whereby unmanned systems are already a multi-domain danger as seen through recent developments in autonomous underwater platforms or unmanned ground vehicles.

C-UAS solutions, strategies and requirements are not really focused on countering potential multi-domain at scale yet, but we will see that shift soon, McCrann said.
In the evening of 18 April, Defence Forces shot down seven drones of the occupiers, including six Iranian Shahed kamikaze drones in Zaporizhzhia Oblast.

Source: Andrii Yermak, head of the Office of the President, on Telegram, and Yuriy Malashko, chairman of Zaporizhzhia Oblast Military Administration, on Telegram

Details: According to Yermak, five Shaheds were shot down in Zaporizhzhia Oblast.

After the message from the head of the Presidents Office, Malashko also created a post on his Telegram channel about the effective operation of air defence but did not indicate the number of downed drones.

Quote from Malashko: "The air defence forces showed their skills over Zaporizhzhia: enemy "cans" were successfully landed today. Thank you to our military personnel who defended peaceful homes."

Updated: The Air Force specified that as of 22:00, units of anti-aircraft missile forces and mobile fire groups of the Air Command Skhid (East) destroyed 7 UAVs of the occupiers, including six kamikaze drones of the Shahed-136 type. Six drones were neutralised in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, and another one was shot down on the outskirts of the city of Dnipro.

Background: In the evening of 18 April, an air-raid warning was issued in Zaporizhzhia Oblast.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
The Air Force has removed the intelligence mission from the unit where a 21-year-old Air National Guardsman had access to potentially hundreds of classified documents leaked over the internet, service officials revealed Tuesday.

Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall told senators he has directed the services inspector general to investigate the Air National Guard 102nd Intelligence Wing in Cape Cod, Mass., the unit where Airman 1st Class Jack Teixeira served, to look at anything associated with this leak that could have gone wrong.

Until then, the 102nd is not currently performing its assigned intelligence mission. The mission has been temporarily reassigned to other organizations within the Air Force, a service spokesperson confirmed to The Hill.

Teixeira was charged on Friday with violating the Espionage Act and another statute that prohibits the unauthorized removal of classified documents in relation to the posting of more than 100 such papers to a group on Discord. The material ranges from secretive snapshots of the Ukraine-Russia war to intelligence gleaned from spying on allies.

Teixeira is set to appear back in court for a Wednesday hearing.

The leaks have roiled the national security community and raised questions on how an individual was able to covertly remove such information and post it online without drawing attention.

On Tuesday, lawmakers on the Senate Appropriations defense subcommittee pressed Air Force leaders as to what happened and why there was such a blind spot within the military.

How could this guardsman take this information and distribute it electronically for weeks, if not months, and nobody knew about it? panel Chairman Jon Tester (D-Mont.) asked the officials. We spend a lot of money trying to protect classified information. Do we have protections in place to stop this from ever happening again?

Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. C.Q. Brown replied that while the organization does have protections in place to shield classified information, obviously, in this case, this process fell apart.

Story continues

Dues to his job as a cyber administrator, Teixeira had security access to the information that was leaked.

He took advantage of that access, Brown said.

Were going through an ongoing investigation associated with that and then also determining how he was able to distribute, he added.

Both Kendall and Brown also said the Air Force is conducting a service-wide review of its security practices.

There is a full court press going on about this. Were all disturbed about it and were working very, very hard to get to the bottom of it and take corrective actions, Kendall said.

Air Force spokesperson Rose Riley later told The Hill that the review will include a security-focused standdown, to be conducted in the next 30 days at each unit across the service.

The focus of the standdown will be to reassess our security posture and procedures, validate the need to know for each persons access, and emphasize to all Airmen and Guardians the responsibility we are entrusted with to safeguard this information and to enforce and improve our security requirements, she said in a statement.

The Air Force reviews come after Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on Monday directed a military-wide look at all facilities that handle classified information, with officials to report within 45 days on how the nations secrets are accessed, shared, stored and disposed of.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Akron's mayoral candidates are calling for peaceful protests and for coming together to work through the city's challenges after a grand jury decided not to file charges Monday against the eight Akron officers who shot and killed Jayland Walker last June.

Ohio Attorney General David Yost said in an afternoon news conference that the grand jury, which started meeting last week, issued a no-bill, meaning there will be no charges at the state level, although he added that this does not rule out a potential wrongful death civil lawsuit.

In addition, Akron police will conduct a separate internal investigation to determine if any department regulations were violated by the officers.

Legal definition: What does a 'no-bill' mean from grand jury in Jayland Walker case?

The eight Akron officers fatally shot Walker 46 times on June 27 after he led them on a crosstown car chase, during which police say the 25-year-old Black man fired a single shot from his vehicle. Walker was unarmed and running in a ski mask when he was shot after a short foot chase near Wilbeth Road and South Main Street. A handgun was found in his vehicle, police said.

Who was Jayland Walker? Family, friends knew man killed by Akron police as funny, loving

REACTIONS FROM AKRON MAYORAL CANDIDATES:

Akron's mayoral candidates before a debate April 12 at the Akron-Summit County Public Library.

Shammas Malik, Akron Ward 8 councilman

Shammas Malik, the Ward 8 representative on Akron City Council, said that while the grand jury declined to issue indictments against the officers, it doesn't mean that what happened to Walker was right.

"We can and should review all of the information being released by the Ohio Attorney Generals office, including evidence that Jayland fired a weapon during the chase," Malik said in an email. "But I want to be clear  there can be no justification for the brutal amount of force in the video of Jaylands last moments. What we have witnessed is a systemic failure that demands change from our police department.

"In Akron and across our country, true justice will only come when policies and culture are changed to ensure that Black residents are treated with the fairness and respect that is every persons birthright. In Akron, we have a long way to go. Together, we can honor Jayland Walkers life and his familys grief by creating justice in our city."

Story continues

Keith Mills, teacher

Candidate Keith Mills, a teacher, said his heart was with Walker's family.

"Its unfortunate it went this way," Mills said of the grand jury's decision in an email. "I'm still there in my heart with the Jayland Walker family. This continues to happen more often than not. Something has to change. We want to call for peace and call for peaceful protests but I understand the anger involved in this."

Tara Mosley, Akron Ward 5 councilwoman

Tara Mosley, Akron City Council's Ward 5 representative, called for both the police and those protesting to avoid violence.

"Only then do we give ourselves the best chance to heal our grieving city," Mosley said in an emailed statement. "We should never forget that there is a real family at the center of this tragedy  the Walker family. From the beginning, they have been nothing but gracious as their private pain has sparked public outcry. We should live up to their example."

However, Mosley was critical of what she saw as a lack of transparency in the aftermath of the shootings.

"I believe that we should have done more to give people faith in the process," Mosley said. "This would include more transparency from the government in the immediate wake of Walkers killing. Also, we should not have prematurely boarded up and fortified the city, making it look more like a war zone than a place where jurors could peacefully deliberate, consider the evidence, and make a decision.

"Still, putting aside that we could have done more to avoid undermining trust in the grand jurys decision, that decision is still limited. The grand jury may have concluded that there was not sufficient probable cause to charge the officers who killed Jayland Walker with a crime. But they did not, and could not, decide that it was just to kill Jayland Walker, or that it was wise or right to kill Jayland Walker, or whether the law should change to better protect people like Jayland Walker. Those decisions are not for the grand jury; they are for the people of Akron."

Joshua Schaffer, retail store manager

Candidate Joshua Schaffer, who works as a retail store manager, also called for protests to remain peaceful.

"We love our city, so it's counterproductive to destroy property whether private, nonprofit, or government," Schaffer said in an email. "Our neighbors live, work and serve our community from those buildings. Out of control protestors will only fuel mistrust between the community and the police."

Marco Sommerville, deputy mayor of Akron

Marco Sommerville, deputy mayor of Akron, called for unity as the city tackles its challenges.

"My heart goes out to the family and memory of Jayland Walker. I cant know what the family is feeling right now. But I do know that community safety and police reform go together, and Akron needs both," Sommerville said in a texted statement. "We need our law enforcement members and our community members to commit to lasting change. This has been a big part of my lifes work. In the days, months and years ahead, that commitment will continue."

Jeffrey E. Wilhite, District 4 Summit County councilman

Jeffrey E. Wilhite, who represents District 4 on Summit County Council, also extended his thoughts to Walker's family.

"What they are going through is unimaginable and my hope is that as a community we can work together to prevent another tragedy like this in the future," Wilhite said in an emailed statement. "I am committed to that work of making our city truly safe for all of our residents. I know that disappointment will be felt throughout the community today. As a community we must respect the call of the Walker family to gather in peace. Now is the time for all residents of the city to galvanize our collective efforts to make positive changes."

Mark Greer, former small business manager for Akron

Candidate Mark Greer, who had been small business program manager for the city of Akron before stepping down recently, said he attended the news conference at St. Ashworth Temple where the Walker family and their attorneys responded to the grand jury's decision.

"The news hit me like a rock," Greer said. "The weight of this decision, much like the wait for justice, has grown heavy. Too heavy for us to carry alone. From the streets today, I watched as construction vehicles moved heavy barricades into place throughout downtown. And yet all I could think of was would we as a city come together to carry the burdens laid upon our brothers backs, those that are far heavier than concrete. These are the burdens of untold years of injustice, of lives lost, humanity devalued, dreams deferred, and voices unheard. Burdens that cannot be carried as long as we stand apart, wondering why those of us still under their weight continue to struggle."

"Everyone must come together to work together for the city to progress."

"There is no Akron without all of us," Greer said. "No progress unless none of us are left behind. And no real sense of community unless members of every race, creed and color unite behind the righteous cause of justice, accountability, and truth. This is the time where we as a city must forge a new direction. There must be systemic change and reform in our law enforcement, one built upon trust, transparency, and accountability, and still ensuring the safety of our neighborhoods and communities."

PHOTOS: Jayland Walker protest in Highland Square

Guidelines on protests: What to know if you're protesting about grand jury in Jayland Walker police shooting case

Akron leaders to call for peace at news conference Tuesday

Sommerville and Bishop Joey Johnson, two members of Tribal Trauma Triage, plan to gather community leaders at a news conference Tuesday to call for stability and peace following the grand jury decision.

The conference will start at 1 p.m. at The House of the Lord, 1650 Diagonal Road in Akron.

Read more: What do you need to know about the Jayland Walker police shooting?

Support local journalism: Why local journalists matter for covering the Jayland Walker case from beginning to end

Speakers will include Sommerville; Johnson; Sharon Connor, Akron Ward 10 councilwoman; Dr. Ciara Dennis-Morgan, clinical director Minority Behavioral Health Group; and pastor Mike Irby, president of 100 Black Men of Akron.

Tribal Trauma Triage is a newly formed group of African American pastors and civic leaders convened by Sommerville and facilitated by Johnson in the wake of the Walker tragedy. It brings together pastors, representatives from Akron Public Schools and the Akron Police Department, city of Akron staff members and representatives of The Freedom BLOC.

Reporter April Helms can be reached at ahelms@thebeaconjournal.com

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Akron mayor candidates urge change, peace after grand jury decision
A Fresno man faces 10 years or more in prison and a potential fine of $10 million after pleading guilty to an attempt to deal methamphetamine and fentanyl, federal prosecutors said.

Bobby Hood, 65, of Fresno pleaded guilty Monday to possessing and intending to sell more than 40 grams of fentanyl and more than a pound of meth, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.

Prosecutors executed a search warrant Jan. 14, 2021, in Hoods home and car and seized the drugs, a news release said.

His sentencing hearing is set for Aug. 7 by U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston, the DOJ said.

Hood faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years to life in prison and a $10 million fine.

This case is part of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge, a program that is supposed to reduce the supply of deadly synthetic opioids in high impact areas as well as identifying international and domestic suppliers, prosecutors said.
Alex Wong/Getty Images

Russian agents recruited members of three U.S. political groups to spread propaganda and interfere with elections, federal prosecutors allege.

A new indictment, unsealed Tuesday, accuses four Americans and three Russian nationals of an effort to act as unregistered foreign agents on behalf of the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB). The four Americans are members of the African Peoples Socialist Party (APSP) and its subsidiary group, the Uhuru Movement. One of those defendants is also the leader of the Black Hammer organization, an alleged cult that is also under fire for accusations of kidnapping, sexual assault, and keeping a teenagers corpse in its home base.

The defendants are accused of laundering pro-Russian talking points, like support for Russias war on Ukraine, through ostensibly left-leaning American organizations. Some of those allegations emerged this summer, following the indictment of one of the Russian defendants, Aleksandr Viktorovich Ionov.

The latest indictment further alleges that Ionov and Russian colleagues paid members of the APSP and the Black Hammer party to attend conferences and protests, beginning in 2015. In May of that year, an APSP leader allegedly traveled to Russia and entered the APSP into a partnership with the Russian defendants, knowing that [they] were agents of the Russian government.

After that all-expenses paid trip, the APSP allegedly acted on Russian agents behalf to draft and promote a petition accusing the U.S. of genocide against people of African descent. The Russian agent paid the APSP $500 for the document, according to the indictment.

Infamous Cult Leader Arrested After Dead Body Found in Home

Larger-ticket donations allegedly followed. Russians are accused of paying APSP members more than $7,000 for a four-city tour to promote the petition.

After Russias invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the APSP allegedly worked with the Russian defendants to promote anti-Ukranian talking points. Ionov spoke at an APSP video conference, where he stated that anybody who supported Ukraine was also supporting Nazism and white supremacy.

Story continues

Ionov is accused of having helped draft the Black Hammer movement and its leader Augustus Romain Jr. (also known as Gazi Kodzo) into the campaign. Romain split from the APSP around November 2018, according to the indictment, and launched Black Hammer. But he allegedly took orders and funding from his Russian connections while leading the Black Hammer group.

In March 2022, Ionov allegedly paid $2,883 to fly Romain and three other Black Hammer members to San Francisco, where they held a protest against Facebook parent company Meta, which was restricting content that called for a Russian invasion of Ukraine.

At one point, Romain appears to have bragged that he was more effective than his former APSP comrades, boasting in messages to Ionov that APSP leader Omali could never do what I do lmao, and that Black Hammer Party is the vanguard.

During a June 2022 Black Hammer Party demonstration outside the Georgia Capitol building, Romain stated on video that Im not ashamed to say that the Black Hammer Party has relationships with the Kremlin.

Inside Vladimir Putins Shadowy Army of Global Spies

But soon after the demonstration, Romain was facing greater worries.

Romain had previously led multiple efforts to establish a communal headquarters for the Black Hammer group. After a failed attempt to build Black Hammer City in an undeveloped property in Colorado, Romain established the group in a rental house outside Atlanta.

Members began accusing Romain of increasingly erratic behavior, including forbidding members from leaving the group, and making common cause with far-right organizations like the Proud Boys.

In July 2022, police received a call from the Black Hammer home base, from a person claiming they were being held in the home against their will. When police arrived at the scene, they found an 18-year-old man dead of what they described as an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head.

Romain was subsequently charged with aggravated sodomy, conspiracy to commit a felony, false imprisonment, kidnapping, aggravated assault, and criminal street gang activity. An arrest warrant in the case accuses Romain of ordering followers to hold two victims at gunpoint in a garage so that he could sexually assault at least one of them.

Romain is currently being held without bond in that case.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Medical misinformation makes Americans live shorter: U.S. media

Xinhua) 09:05, April 18, 2023

People walk past Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago in Chicago, the United States, on Dec. 12, 2022. (Photo by Joel Lerner/Xinhua)

There is a real danger when misinformed people skip lifesaving vaccines or buy into risky, untested treatments. Yet policing misinformation is tricky.

NEW YORK, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Misinformation is killing Americans, contributing to the fact that their life expectancy is three to five years worse than that of people in comparably wealthy countries, said an article published by The Seattle Times on Sunday, quoting U.S. Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Robert Califf.

Califf called for better regulation to crack down on misinformation, said the opinion article. "But would such rules help?"

"There is a real danger when misinformed people skip lifesaving vaccines or buy into risky, untested treatments. Yet policing misinformation is tricky," it said.

"The fact-checking industry may even make the problem worse by confusing value judgments with facts, and by portraying science as a set of immutable facts, rather than a system of inquiry that constructs provisional theories based on imperfect data," it noted.

The advent of artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT will only magnify the confusion -- the latest version, with GPT-4, is slick, articulate, lightning-witted and some experts worry it could be used as a turbocharged misinformation machine that floods people with AI-generated fake news and fake images, said the article.

"A lot of people are upset, even outraged about rampant misinformation online, but not especially worried about falling for it. The real problem is all those more gullible people," it added.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Wu Chaolan)
China's holdings of debt issued by US government-sponsored agencies may continue to rise, a trend that can help China's foreign exchange reserves gain higher returns and greater diversification, analysts said on Monday.

According to data from the US Department of the Treasury, China's holdings of US agency bonds  bonds issued by US government-sponsored agencies like mortgage buyer Freddie Mac  stood at $259.99 billion as of January, up by $55.3 billion, or 27 percent, from a year ago.

The increase has bucked the downtrend in China's holdings of US Treasuries, besides sparking discussions as to why China has boosted exposure to US agency bonds that are deemed quasi-government assets while selling US government assets.

China's holdings of US Treasury securities, including Treasury bills and longer-dated Treasury bonds and notes, have slid for six consecutive months to $859.4 billion as of January, down by $174.4 billion year-on-year, showed data from the US Department of the Treasury.

Experts said a key driver of China's rising holdings of US agency debt was its higher yield over US Treasuries.

A recent Bloomberg report said that the US agency bonds' yield premium over US Treasuries has widened over the past year, with the option-adjusted spread between US agency bonds and Treasuries increasing to about 28 basis points as of mid-February, up from about 15 basis points a year ago.

Han Tan, a market analyst at financial trading platform FXTM, said China's increased holdings of US agency bonds appear to be intended to capture their higher yields over US Treasuries.

"Greater exposure to US agency bonds generates higher interest income as well as greater diversification, so as to support policymakers' risk management objectives," he said.

China's increased holdings of US agency bonds seem to be part of the country's broader efforts to diversify reserve assets.

For instance, China's gold reserves have risen to 66.5 million ounces at the end of March, equivalent to $131.65 billion and up from 65.92 million ounces in February, marking the fifth consecutive month of increase, according to the State Administration of Foreign Exchange.

Hong Hao, chief economist at GROW Investment Group, said he expects China may further increase holdings of US agency bonds, which are considered as good as government credit with very limited default risks.

"As these (US agency) bonds have proved their creditworthiness time and time again and are considered close to risk-free, it pays to hold them for their higher yield," Hong said.

Despite the potential for China to buy more US agency debt, analysts said it is still unlikely for China to significantly increase exposure to US government debt and quasi-government debt as a whole due to security considerations.

China's foreign exchange reserves increased to $3.1839 trillion by the end of March, up by $50.7 billion, or 1.62 percent, compared with the end of February, SAFE said.

To ensure safety of China's foreign exchange reserves, it may become necessary for China to reduce holdings of US debt, given lingering geopolitical tensions and the US government's elevated level of debt, said Yang Haiping, a researcher at the Central University of Finance and Economics' Institute of Securities and Futures.

While China's holdings of US agency debt increased over the past year, the country's total holdings of US long-term securities have decreased to $1.42 trillion as of January, down by $111.48 billion year-on-year, according to US Department of the Treasury.
In other times, Gov. J.B. Pritzker might have batted away my question as a contrived provocation.

But the Illinois Democrat was far from dismissive last week when I asked him whether he could imagine a scenario where a federal judge issued a ruling so wildly wrongheaded that Pritzker would decline to enforce it in his state.

Thats not something that I anticipate having to do and thats not something I would want to do, Pritzker said. I believe in the rule of the law and I believe in our Constitution.

He added a note of grim realism: And I know there are misinterpretations of our Constitution. Weve all lived with that.

It was a calibrated answer, indicating distaste for my hypothetical without completely ruling it out. And at this point, how could he  or any Democratic governor  foreclose the possibility that a rogue judge might precipitate that kind of clash?

Pritzker, 58, made plain in our conversation that he is not looking for war with the federal judiciary. Yet in many respects war has come to him and other blue state governors, as a cohort of conservative legal activists on the federal bench flex their new power with rulings that strain constitutional credibility.

Their decisions are attacking the blue state way of life: Stripping back gun regulations, threatening abortion rights and weakening federal policies on environmental regulation and civil rights that align with the values of Americas center-left cities and suburbs. Those communities make up much of the country, but their political power is concentrated in a relatively small number of densely developed states.

It does not seem far-fetched to imagine that the leader of one of those states, with a population and economy the scale of a midsize nation, might eventually say: Enough.

I asked to speak with Pritzker after a Texas-based district court judge, Matthew Kacsmaryk, issued a ruling halting the Food and Drug Administrations approval of mifepristone, a drug used to terminate pregnancy. It was a brazen ideological decision by a judge with a record of espousing far-right views.



Story continues

Several politicians have called for the mifepristone ruling to be ignored, though none are governors. Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) denounced it as the fruit of conservatives dangerous and undemocratic takeover of our countrys institutions; he and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) urged the Biden administration not to enforce the decision, which has largely been stayed so far.

Rep. Nancy Mace, a South Carolina Republican, endorsed the same idea, saying that there was no basis for the ruling and warning her party that it was on the wrong side of the country on abortion.

Should higher courts allow the decision to take effect, it would represent a drastic escalation of the judicial rollback of abortion rights. It would go beyond the Supreme Courts Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization decision, which abolished the federal right to abortion, by hindering access to abortion even in states where the procedure is legal.

Pritzker responded by declaring that the ruling had no force in Illinois. That was a statement of legal reality, however, rather than the declaration of a constitutional crisis.

Illinois is involved in separate federal litigation in Washington state, where the state attorney general, Bob Ferguson, is suing to loosen FDA restrictions on mifepristone. The suit was devised in part as a tool for countering the Texas case: Ferguson told NPR earlier this year that it could help shield states like his from the immediate impact of an extreme ruling in Texas.

That tactic worked. When the Texas decision came down, the judge in Washington ruled that the availability of mifepristone could not be restricted in the coalition of states suing to loosen access.

This is a chaotic state of affairs that tests the coherence of the federal system. It is likely to get worse in the future, as the gulf in values widens between the majority of voters who favor abortion rights, gun control and other center-left policies, and an elite faction of judges who do not.

In our conversation, Pritzker called this a crisis inflicted by former President Donald Trump, whose judicial appointees are just finding any which way they can to effectuate their policies rather than follow the law.

The solution, Pritzker argued, was for Democrats to appoint rational judges and gradually grind away the impact of Trumps appointments. For now, he said states like his should explore every legal tactic imaginable to protect themselves from reckless judicial fiats.

The Washington state litigation on mifepristone was one such tool. When far-right groups file lawsuits before conservative-leaning courts with an eye toward changing national policy, blue states can launch competing litigation on the same subjects to engineer legal deadlock.

That could be a frenzied process just to preserve elements of the status quo.

Were all going to have to live with the craziness that is the leftover effect of Donald Trump being in office for four years, Pritzker conceded.

I told him I wasnt sure people in a state like his were prepared to live with the craziness indefinitely. Democrats cannot restore the pre-Trump texture of the judiciary without winning a bunch of presidential and Senate elections in a row and then hoping for some well-timed judicial vacancies, particularly on the Supreme Court.

Pritzker initially thought I was suggesting voters would grow dejected and stop turning out to support Democrats. Quite the opposite, I clarified  I think voters will get volcanically angry.

I think thats what people are doing, he agreed, and their reaction is at the ballot box and their reaction is in the streets.

Pritzker cited an election this month for control of the Wisconsin Supreme Court: In a 50-50 state, the liberal-leaning candidate won by a landslide in a campaign in that hinged in part on abortion.



There are democratic correctives to an out-of-control judiciary, in other words, short of an all-out battle against the bench. It is possible that the task of winning several consecutive national elections for the Democratic Party, and overhauling the judiciary in the process, may not be an unappealing challenge for Pritzker, who is widely seen as a future presidential candidate.

Yet there is still the problem of the present.

In many instances, like the mifepristone case, blue states will have legal backup options to try before a governor would have to yield to an extreme district judge. But counting on relief from higher courts is hardly a satisfying strategy for Blue America, under the circumstances.

The moment may come sooner or later when a strong-willed governor in a major blue state will run out of stays and appeals and injunctions and be left to implement an intolerable, ideological decision in a state with contrary social values and political priorities.

The voters of that state will probably view the judiciary with distrust or worse if current polling trends hold. They will probably see the decision  it could be on abortion or LGBTQ rights or voting rights or guns  as an act of radicalism by distant figures in black robes.

Within living memory, there were governors who responded to conditions very much like that by siding with the voters, defying the courts and insisting that their decisions could not be put into effect. They were not blue state progressives but Southern racists; they managed to obstruct desegregation for years and shape the course of American racial politics to this day.

It is not too hard to conjure the mental image of a 21st Century, blue state George Wallace, standing in the schoolhouse door to defend an entirely different set of social values.

Consider the Supreme Court decision last year voiding a New York gun regulation, in force since 1911, that required people to show proper cause for seeking to carry handguns outside the home in order to obtain a license to do so.

Lets say that ruling had come down when the governor of New York was not Kathy Hochul, a conventional Democrat, but rather a politician with more rigid convictions and an appetite for risk and combat  someone who has already expressed support for ignoring certain kinds of judicial rulings, like a Gov. Ocasio-Cortez.

Lets say that when the Supreme Court ruled that a century-old handgun restriction was suddenly unconstitutional, that governor responded: The courts analysis is noted, but our local gun laws are deeply rooted and it would not be practical to change the way we do licensing at this time.

What would happen then?

Would the president nationalize New Yorks firearm licensing bureaucracy? Or threaten the governor with arrest? Or send in federal forces, like Eisenhower deploying the 101st Airborne to help desegregate Arkansas public schools?

The answer might depend on which party controls the White House, a political reality that speaks to how frayed the constitutional order already is.

A Republican administration might seek swift punishment for Gov. Ocasio-Cortez. Would a Justice Department overseen by President Biden or President Harris  or President Pritzker  do the same?

If not, what then?
Photo: Andrew Burton (Getty Images)

One of the largest timber companies in the world is claiming to contribute to climate change solutions, despite the fact that its planning to increase lumber production over the next couple of years. As the Wall Street Journal reported on Monday, logging giant Weyerhaeuser has made a pivot in recent years to promoting its timber activities as sustainable and green, a move that follows the drive toward creating profitable carbon offsets from forestsdespite the fuzzy math in play.

The key to Weyerhaeusers environmental claims is in its forests. Weyerhaeuser currently owns 10.6 million acres of forest in the U.S.land which can absorb a lot of carbon. Forests like the ones the company owns across the U.S. and Canada are crucial carbon sinks.

Read more

The company is cultivating a green image and boasts about its sustainable forests on its website. We use trees to make products people need while taking care of forests for future generations, the front page copy reads.

As the Wall Street Journal reported, this focus on climate is going along with the market signal: Some big companies are now spending billions on timberland with plans to also use the forests for carbon sequestration. In a bid to attract investors, a new natural climate solutions division at the company, the WSJ reported, is designed to help other companies find ways to offset their emissions.



For large timberland purchases, carbon is an integral part of valuation, just as timber is, Anton Pil, head of global alternatives for J.P. Morgan Asset Management, told the WSJ.

If youre thinking its weird that Weyerhaeuser gets to claim all those carbon credits when the company is just planning to chop those trees down, youre not alone. Theres some pretty sticky math involved with justifying labeling for-profit forestry as climate-friendly. (Earther reached out to Weyerhaeuser for comment on the WSJ article and will update this piece if we hear back.)



Story continues

On the one hand, Weyerhaeuser and other companies say that, because they replant trees after they cut them down, they are helping to maintain and grow that carbon sink. And a table made out of a tree, the company claims, stores carbon more effectively than that same tree would if it fell to the forest floor.

When we cut and convert trees into wood products, that carbon remains stored for the life of the product, a Weyerhaeuser pamphlet answering frequently asked questions reads. And when we replant our forests, those trees start removing more CO2 from the atmosphere.

While these arguments may look good on paper, there are some serious logical fallacies with how this actually works in real life. One of the key issues here is forest regrowth. Trees, obviously, take time to regrow and get back up to full sequestration strengthWeyerhaeuser cant just roll out full-size trees to replace the ones it chops down for furniture or Home Depot planks. We dont have decades to wait for seedlings to regrow and start sequestering carbon, and studies show that logged forests can continue to emit carbon for years after theyre cleared. (Weyerhaeuser told the WSJ it has created new breeds of trees that will grow faster and sequester more carbon than the ones cut down.)

You never really catch up to what was left in the old growth forest, Dominick DellaSala, a scientist with environmental nonprofit Earth Island Institute, told reporters last November about these companies math. The carbon debt is transferred to the atmosphere.

Adding in selling carbon credits to outside companies, as Weyerhaeuser has started to do, creates another layer of complication. Essentially, assuming that the mere existence of forest is a net positive creates a scenario of asking companies to pay Weyerhaeuser to treat an area of forest exactly as it would normallywith those paying companies now getting to write off their own emissions. While some buyers insist on forest owners actually reducing logging, the WSJ reported, that isnt always the case.



Most people game the system, William Sonnenfeld, a forestry consultant, told the WSJ.

And forests arent math equations. Trees are complex living organisms, and the actual ability of a forest to store carbon depends on a lot of factorsand can change over time. An investigation into Californias carbon offset program published by ProPublica and MIT Technology Review in 2021 found that almost 30% of the offsets in the program are overvalued, thanks to squishy math and tricks of accounting that dont take forest variability into account.

Weyerhaeusers fuzzy math doesnt just extend to carbon sequestration. Weyerhaeuser has also heavily pitched the role of biomassthe process of burning woodchips for fuelas a carbon solution. On the companys website, biomass is described as a low-carbon energy solution that also supports jobs in rural communities, keeps forests healthy by protecting them from insects, disease and wildfire, and encourages future sustainable forestry.

Climate advocates decry biomasss classification in some countries as carbon-free or green energy: much of the worlds biomass energy is used in Europe, which means wood chips harvested from the U.S. undergo a carbon-intensive voyage to reach their end destination.

Its not just Weyerhaeuser that is gaming the forestry system. A study published last month in the journal Frontiers in Forests and Global Change that looked at 300 forest carbon offset projects around the world found that many of these projects are significant[ly] over-crediting the carbon actually offset by their actions.

Despite the mounting evidence about how carbon accounting can be misused, over-reliance on forests remains a popular choice for polluters who want to keep on pollutin. Alaskas governor is currently pushing a bill that would incentivize the state to create a carbon management program for its forests, which the governor has said could bring in billions in revenue. As Politico reported on Tuesday, some of the biggest drivers of interest in programs like these are oil companies including ExxonMobil and ConocoPhillips.

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The Mexican navy expanded its search effort for three American sailors who have not been heard from in two weeks.

The navy said it is using four patrol boats and a twin-engine prop airplane to search the area but have not reported any signs of the missing trio.

Kerry OBrien, Frank OBrien and William Gross set sail on their vessel Ocean Bound, last making contact with anyone on April 4 when they were near Mazatlan, Mexico, the Coast Guard said over the weekend.

The three Americans were aboard the 44-foot La Fitte sailing-vessel called Ocean Bound, which set off for San Diego but failed to make contact on April 6 when it was supposed to stop in Cabo San Lucas.

MEXICAN KIDNAPPERS TARGETING AMERICAN TOURISTS HAVE NO COADE CURBING RUTHLESSNESS: EXPERT

Kerry and Frank O'Brien, two of the missing individuals aboard the vessel Ocean Bound that was last contacted on April 4 as it passed Mazatlan, Mexico.

Ellen Argall, mother of Pennsylvania native Kerry O'Brien, said her daughter has had a love of the water her whole life and told a local CBS News outlet that she is confident her daughter is safe.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

"I just keep hoping and praying that I'll hear some good news. I want good news, not bad news," she reportedly said, adding that waiting for news was "pure agony."

"I'm trying to hold myself together," Argall added.

MEXICO RESORT SHOOTING LEAVES SEVEN DEAD, INCLUDING CHILD

The 44-foot Le Fitte vessel Ocean Bound, which went missing after making last contact on April 4.

The operation to locate the trio and their vessel is led by the District 11 Coast Guard, which covers California, Nevada, Utah and Arizona, as well as offshore waters of Mexico and Central America.

The Coast Guard said marinas in Baja California have also not reported seeing the vessel.

"Search and rescue coordinators have contacted marinas throughout Baja, Mexico, with negative sightings of the vessel," the Coast Guard explained on Saturday.

CALIFORNIA WOMAN KIDNAPPED IN MEXICO SEEN IN VIDEO FOOTAGE MOMENTS BEFORE DISAPPEARANCE: FBI

The 44-foot Le Fitte vessel Ocean Bound, which went missing after making last contact on April 4.

"Urgent marine information broadcasts have been issued over VHF radio requesting all mariners to keep a lookout for the missing persons and vessel."

The Coast Guard asked for anyone with information to call the U.S. Coast Guard search and rescue coordination center at (510) 437-3701.

Fox News Digital reached out to the USGC NorCal, but did not receive any reply by time of publication.

Fox News Digital's Caitlin McFall and the Associated Press contributed to this report.
Jim Urquhart/Reuters

An Idaho hospital is suing militia leader Ammon Bundy, who is accused of harassing staff and blocking an ambulance bay. But serving the defendant with court papers has proved difficult.

In a Monday filing, lawyers for St. Lukes Health System accused Bundy of trying to avoid his day in court by threatening process servers who deliver his court papers. St. Lukes contends that Bundy, who leads the right-wing activist group Peoples Rights Network, has attempted to intimidate process servers and even a local sheriffs department when deputies tried delivering documents to his home.

An April 12 letter from the sheriff, including in new court filings, suggests that the sheriff has also given up trying to contact Bundy.

Bundy, who could not be reached for comment, is best known for his confrontational and often armed protests, like a pair of armed standoffs in 2014 and 2016. His current group, the People Rights Network, has also mobilized to antagonize opponents in Idaho, holding aggressive demonstrations outside the homes of a county commissioner who supported COVID-19 precautions and a judge who was overseeing one of Bundys many criminal cases.

Bundy and the PRN have cultivated a reputation for intimidating behavior, St. Lukes lawyers allege.

Any individual corporate leader, or government official who in some way offends Ammon Bundy and the Peoples Rights Network knows they will be attacked online, will face armed protests outside their homes and workplace, and will have to live with the very real threat of violence against themselves and their families, reads a Monday filing by the hospitals lawyers.

Bundy and the PRN are accused of doxxing and defaming St. Lukes staff, after the hospital treated a PRN members grandson who was diagnosed with severe malnourishment, against the childs familys wishes. The baby was returned to his parents after three days of hospital treatment. While protesting the hospital, Bundy was arrested for alleged trespassing after he blocked an ambulance bay, sending the facility into lockdown during which time it was unable to receive ambulances.

Story continues

Far-Right Activist Ammon Bundy Threatens Shotgun Standoff Over Hospital Lawsuit

Even after the initial furor, Bundy and the PRN continued to fundraise off conspiracy theories about St. Lukes, based on defamatory statements about the St. Lukes Parties and others kidnapping, trafficking, and killing children, according to the hospitals lawsuit. The hospital says PRN followers inundated its inboxes and phone lines with death threats and intimidating messages.

Now even process servers are facing threats, St. Lukes alleges. In its Monday filing, the hospital claims that Bundy has threatened process servers with trespassing charges.

Whats more, the hospitals lawyers allege, the sheriff in Gem County, Idaho has supported Bundy in those allegations.

The Sheriff interpreted the criminal trespass statute to apply to process servers and that any process server returning to the Bundy residence could be charged with criminal trespass. This effectively prevents the St. Lukes Parties from using private process servers, the Monday filing reads.

The Gem County Sheriff did not return a request for comment. Police stopped at least one process server in March, a St. Lukes lawyer wrote in an affidavit.

On or about March 3, 2023, I was informed that a private process server was pulled over by law enforcement officers after serving Bundy at Bundys residence, the filing reads. The process server was informed that he had been trespassed by Bundy.

After another legal threat earlier this month, the process server company told St. Lukes that they would no longer attempt deliveries to Bundys home. St. Lukes turned to the Gem County Sheriffs department to hand Bundy the court documentsbut the sheriff claims his deputies were also threatened.

In an April 12 letter, Gem County Sheriff Donnie Wunder said he was no longer comfortable sending deputies to Bundys house.

Mr. Bundy expressed to me that he feels like he is being harassed by all the papers that have been served on him (by mail and personnel service), Wunder wrote of a recent phone call with Bundy. Mr. Bundy went on to say that he is at his breaking point. By the tone in his voice I believe he is. In my opinion, if this continues, there is potential for someone to getting hurt. My concern is with the safety of process servers and my deputies. I do not want to risk harm over a civil issue.

In its Monday filing, St. Lukes requested a court order requiring the sheriff to serve Bundy with papers and barring the sheriff from pursuing trespassing charges against other process servers who deliver court documents to Bundys house.

Bundy has consistently avoided court proceedings in the case. He skipped a September sanctions hearing and, in a December video, boasted about throwing out legal papers from the case.

I just throw it all away. I literally just take it from the mail and throw it in the garbage, he said. I havent responded one bit to them. He added that they have servers that come here all the time, knocking on the door, serving papers.

In that video, he hinted at a new armed standoff, should he lose the court case and have to pay damages.

Theyre suing me for defamation. Theyre probably going to try to get judgments of over a million dollars and take everything they have from me, Bundy said. And Im not going to let that happen. Im making moves to stop that from happening. And if I have to meet 'em on the front door with my, you know, friends and a shotgun, Ill do that. Theyre not going to take my property.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Black teenager Ralph Yarl was shot by a white homeowner after he accidentally rang the doorbell at the wrong address while going to collect his brothers.

The 16-year-olds interaction with the suspect in the Northland suburb of Kansas City quickly turned violent and the high school student was left hospitalised with serious injuries.

Instead of going to a home in the 1100 block of Northeast 115th Street he instead went to Northeast 115th Terrace in Kansas City, Missouri, police said.

Now prosecutors have brought charges against the homeowner, Andrew D Lester.

Here is everything we know about the suspect.

Prosecutors charge Andrew D Lester

On 17 April prosecutors announced that they had filed charges against an 85-year-old white man named Andrew D Lester for the shooting of Ralph Yarl.

Police booking photo of Andrew Lester, charged with shooting Ralph Yarl (Kansas City Police)

Clay County prosecutor Zachary Thompson confirmed in a press conference that there was a racial component to the case but would not give details on what had caused him to come to that conclusion.

Prosecutors charged Andrew D Lester with assault in the first degree, which carries a punishment of 10 to 30 years or life imprisonment. He has also been charged with armed criminal action, which carries a punishment of 3 to 15 years.

Mr Thompson said that a bond has been set of $200,000 but that the suspect is not yet in custody.

Court documents lay out what happened

A witness told police that they saw a vehicle pull into Mr Lesters driveway at around 9.30pm.

Mr Lester told investigators that he had just lain down when the doorbell rang, he picked up a .32 pistol and opened the interior door of his house.

Ralph Yarl was discharged from hospital after suffering two gunshot wounds (AP)

He told police that he was a Black male pulling on the exterior door and thought he was trying to break into the property.

Mr Lester says that he fired twice and that no words were exchanged with the victim.

During an informal police interview at Childrens Mercy Hospital, the teenager said that he did not pull the door and was waiting outside.

He told investigators that a man opened the door and immediately shot him, causing him to fall to the ground where he was shot for a second time.

Story continues

Mr Yarl told police the man said, Dont come around here.

Prosecutor says there was racial component to shooting

As the prosecutor for Clay County, I can tell you that there was a racial component to the caseI dont want to comment on specifics of the case to protect its integrity, said Clay County prosecutor Zachary Thompson.

Yarl had not entered the home when Lester allegedly shot him through a glass door, Mr Thompson said.
Police booking photo of Andrew Lester, charged with shooting Ralph Yarl (Kansas City Police)

Black teenager Ralph Yarl was shot by a white homeowner after he accidentally rang the doorbell at the wrong address while going to collect his brothers.

The 16-year-old accidental visit to Andrew Lesters home in the Northland suburb of Kansas City quickly turned violent and the high school student was left hospitalised with serious injuries.

Instead of going to a home in the 1100 block of Northeast 115th Terrace in Kansas City, Missouri, to pick up his brothers, he mistakenly went to Northeast 115th Street, police said.

Now prosecutors have brought charges against the homeowner.

Here is everything we know about the suspect.

The homeowner

The identity of the shooter was revealed on Monday afternoon as Andrew D Lester, aged 84.

Following the shooting, he was initially taken into custody on Thursday and placed on a 24-hour hold.

However, under Missouri state law, a person can only be held for 24 hours on suspicion of a felony before officials must either charge or release them.

Attorneys for Ralph  and jail officials  said that the suspect was actually released after less than two hours.

Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves said at a press conference on Sunday that  due to Ralphs injuries  police had been unable to get a formal statement from him.

Police booking photo of Andrew Lester, charged with shooting Ralph Yarl (Kansas City Police)

This was also contradicted by Ralphs attorneys who said that the teenager gave an interview from his hospital bed on Friday.

In an appearance on CNN, Mr Crump described the shooting as an attempted murder.

The charges

On Monday afternoon, Clay County prosecutor Zachary Thompson announced that Mr Lester had been charged with two felonies: assault in the first degree, which carries a punishment of 10 to 30 years or life imprisonment, and armed criminal action, which carries a punishment of 3 to 15 years.

Mr Thompson said that a bond had been set of $200,000 but that the suspect is not yet in custody.

However, when asked if Mr Lester could also be charged with a hate crime, the prosecutor said that it would not be possible under state law.

Story continues

In Missouri, a hate crime is a lower level of felony and to add the charge would amount to double jeopardy, he said.

Mr Crump said in a statement: While this is certainly a step in the right direction, we will continue to fight for Ralph while he works towards a full recovery.

Clay County prosecutor Zachary Thompson confirmed in a press conference that there was a racial component to the case but would not give details on what had caused him to come to that conclusion.

Prosecutors charged Andrew D Lester with assault in the first degree, which carries a punishment of 10 to 30 years or life imprisonment. He has also been charged with armed criminal action, which carries a punishment of 3 to 15 years.

Mr Thompson said that a bond has been set of $200,000 but that the suspect is not yet in custody.

What happened

According to court documents, a witness told police that they saw a vehicle pull into Mr Lesters driveway at around 9.30pm.

Mr Lester told investigators that he had just lain down when the doorbell rang, he picked up a .32 pistol and opened the interior door of his house.

Ralph Yarl was discharged from hospital after suffering two gunshot wounds (AP)

He told police that he saw a Black male pulling on the exterior door and thought he was trying to break into the property.

He claimed he was scared to death at the boys size and feared he was unable to defend himself given his elderly age, the documents state.

Mr Lester said that he fired twice and that no words were exchanged with the victim.

During an informal police interview at Childrens Mercy Hospital, the teenager said that he did not pull the door and was waiting outside.

He told investigators that a man opened the door and immediately shot him, causing him to fall to the ground where he was shot for a second time.

Ralph told police the man said, Dont come around here.

Following the shooting, Ralph managed to stumble away to some other homes in the neighbourhood to get help and was rushed to hosptial.

On Monday, he was released from hospital to recover at home from his injuries.

Racial component

As the prosecutor for Clay County, I can tell you that there was a racial component to the caseI dont want to comment on specifics of the case to protect its integrity, said Clay County prosecutor Zachary Thompson.

Ralph had not entered the home when Lester allegedly shot him through a glass door, Mr Thompson said.

Mr Crump told CNN that he believes things would have been different if the races of the suspect and victim were reversed.

Nobody can tell us if the roles were reversed, and you had a Black man shoot a white, 16-year-old teenager for merely ringing his doorbell that he would not be arrested, he said.

I mean, this citizen went home and slept in his bed at night after shooting that young Black kid in the head.

Celebrities join demands for justice as GoFundMe appeal soars

Before charges were announced  and when the suspect had been freed from police custody without charge  several celebrities joined calls for justice for Ralph.

Halle Berry posted Ralphs image on Twitter and urged her Twitter followers to contact the local prosecutor to urge him to bring charges against the homeowner.

His name is #RalphYarl and Im sick and tired of this feelingmy heart completely broke when I learned this precious 16-year-old, who accidentally rang the door of the wrong address in an attempt to pick up his siblings, was shot in the head by a man who didnt want him on his property. This innocent child is now fighting for his life, she wrote.

Fellow Black actor Viola Davis also took to Instagram to demand action.

ALL HANDS ON DECK!! she wrote, directing people to the posts of civil rights attorneys Ben Crump and Lee Merritt.

The house where 16-year-old Ralph Yarl was shot after he went to the wrong address to pick up his younger brothers in Kansas City, Missouri (AP)

Meanwhile a GoFundMe appeal to try and help raise funds for his treatment saw donations flooding in.

As of around midday ET on Monday  less than 24 hours after its launch  a staggering $1.2m had been raised.

On the campaign page, a woman who identified herself as Ralphs aunt described the teenager as a fantastic kid who had dreams of doing to Texas A&M University to major in chemical Engineering.

At school, he is a member of the Technology Student Association and Science Olympia Team. Jazz and competition band. He is a section leader in the marching band; a scholar and one of the top base clarinet players in Missouri. He recently earned Missouri All-State Band recognition with an honorable mention. He plays multiple instruments in the metropolitan youth orchestra. He is a 2022 Missouri scholar academy alumni. Ralph can often be found with a musical instrument. He loves them all, the page reads.

Last summer, Ralph attended Missouri Scholars Academy, where he got a full college life experience. His goal is to attend Texas A&M to major in chemical Engineering.

This undated photo provided by Ben Crump Law shows Ralph Yarl, the teenager shot by a homeowner in Kansas City (AP)

When asked how he plans to get into this university, he said, Well, if they have a scholarship for music or academics, I know I can get it. Ralphs teacher and friends describe him as  a kind soul, quiet, friendly, well-mannered, always willing to help, super smart, and a musical genius. Ralph was looking forward to graduating high school and finally getting the opportunity to visit West Africa before starting college.

Life looks a lot different right now. Even though he is doing well physically, he has a long road ahead mentally and emotionally. The trauma that he has to endure and survive is unimaginable. He is our miracle. We have heard these types of stories many times, and unfortunately, most black boys are not alive to get another chance.
At the same time, the Russians are still setting up defensive lines and preparing for a counteroffensive of the Armed Forces of Ukraine

The Ukrainian military has seen increased activity of shipping stolen property from Russian-occupied areas  a sign that the invaders are preparing for a retreat.

Read also: Russia claims Putin visited occupied territories in Kherson and Luhansk oblasts

As the people of Kherson on the right bank already say, it is a popular belief. They are definitely preparing for another gesture. Because (Russians) packed the stolen property and sent it away. They stocked up on civilian clothing and are now taking such actions, which definitely indicates that they are preparing, Humeniuk explained.

Read also: Russia scouring Kherson Oblast for Ukrainian veterans and their families

Russia continues to fortify their defensive positions by mining the coast to protect themselves from a possible landing by Ukrainian troops, indicating that they will not give up the area without a fight.

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 Andrew Chung

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The U.S. Supreme Court should restrict the availability of the abortion pill mifepristone, anti-abortion groups challenging the medication's federal regulatory approval told the justices in a filing on Tuesday, urging them to implement curbs ordered by a conservative federal judge in Texas.

The challengers urged the Supreme Court to reject emergency requests by Democratic President Joe Biden's administration and the pill's manufacturer to halt the April 7 preliminary injunction issued by U.S. District Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk in Amarillo that would greatly limit mifepristone's distribution, while litigation proceeds.

The New Orleans-based 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals on April 12 declined to block the restrictions but halted a part of Kacsmaryk's order that would have suspended the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of the drug that was given in 2000, effectively pulling it off the market. The FDA is the U.S. agency that signs off on the safety of food products, drugs and medical devices.

"The only effect of the lower court's order is to restore a modicum of safety for the women and girls who use the drug, including supervision and oversight by a physician," attorneys at the Alliance Defending Freedom, a conservative religious rights group representing the pill's challengers, wrote in the filing.

The FDA and Danco Laboratories have for years disregarded "holes and red flags" in their safety data, "demonstrating callous disregard for women's well-being, unborn life, and statutory limits," they added.

The FDA asserts that mifepristone is safe and effective, a record that it has said is conclusively demonstrated over decades of use by millions of Americans and that adverse effects of mifepristone are exceedingly rare.

The case poses another major threat to abortion rights in the United States in the aftermath of the Supreme Court's decision last June to overturn the landmark 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling that had legalized the procedure nationwide. Mounting abortion bans and restrictions have been enacted by Republican-led states since then.

Story continues

Mifepristone is taken with another drug called misoprostol to perform medication abortion, which now accounts for more than half of all U.S. abortions.

Conservative Justice Samuel Alito, who authored the June ruling, last Friday temporarily blocked the restrictions on mifepristone in order to give the Supreme Court time to weigh the requests by the administration and Danco, along with the challengers' arguments. The Supreme Court has a 6-3 conservative majority.

Alito, who handles emergency matters arising in a group of states including Texas, delayed the restrictions from taking effect until 11:59 p.m. EDT (0359 GMT) on Wednesday. The court would be expected to issue another order on the issue by that time.

In a case that could undercut federal regulatory authority over drug safety, the administration and Danco on Friday said that mifepristone might not be available for months if the restrictions are allowed to take effect.

Kacsmaryk's decision conflicted with an order also issued April 7 in a separate case from Washington state directing the FDA to keep mifepristone available in 17 states and the District of Columbia, raising questions over how the FDA would manage contradictory commands from the judiciary if the Supreme Court denies the administration's bid for relief.

Anti-abortion groups led by the recently formed Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine and four anti-abortion doctors sued the FDA in November seeking to reverse approval of mifepristone.

The restrictions set by the lower courts would restore curbs on mifepristone that had been lifted since 2016 as the FDA steadily expanded access. These restrictions would include a requirement for three in-person doctor visits to obtain mifepristone and would limit its use to the first seven weeks of pregnancy, down from the current 10.

Since last year's Supreme Court decision, 12 U.S. states have put in place outright bans while many others prohibit abortion after a certain length of pregnancy. The latest Republican-led move came in Florida, where Governor Ron DeSantis on April 13 signed a new law that bans most abortions after six weeks of pregnancy.

(Reporting by Andrew Chung; Editing by Will Dunham)
Comedy Central

Unsurprisingly, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) wasnt exactly getting all misty-eyed watching former President Donald Trumps recent arraignment.

Maybe George Santos and Marjorie Taylor Greene were part of the supposed hordes openly weeping as Trump was taken into custody, Ocasio-Cortez told Jordan Klepper in an interview that aired Monday night on The Daily Show. But not me. Ticket back to LaGuardia [Airport], baby!

The congresswoman said she thought most New Yorkers were of the same state of mind. I think they treated him like a Florida man. He dont belong to us no mo, she said, laughing. Hes not from Queens anymore. Hes a citizen of Mar-a-Lago at this point.

Ocasio-Cortez was just as game to weigh in on Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas BFF Nazi memorabilia collector, as Klepper characterized Harlan Crow, the real estate mogul who became a supremely unwilling household name after ProPublica reported earlier this month that hed quietly lavished some of his billions on Thomas. With Crow suddenly in an uncomfortable national spotlight, it emerged shortly after that he also happens to be an aficionado of all things Third Reich.

That whole thing is just, I mean, bizarre, Ocasio-Cortez remarked. You also dont keep the [swastika-embossed table] linens around Who does that?

Dont you think if you had a billion dollars and you bought everything, youd probably eventually get to Nazi linens? Klepper asked.

Calling the Nazi memorabilia a distraction from the real issue, Ocasio-Cortez turned to Justice Thomas, who failed to report any of Crows gifts. This is why we pay salaries to public servants, she said, and if they want to live that kind of lifestyle, then they can resign from the court. They can retire.

Clarence is endemic of a larger problem with the now right-leaning Supreme Court and the Republican Party as a whole, the congresswoman said. We have to face the reality that the Supreme Court has chosen to give up huge swathes of their own legitimacy, she added.

Story continues

Klepper journeyed to meet Ocasio-Cortez at Jacobi Medical Center in the Bronx, where they discussed the hospitals Stand Up to Violence program, a flagship model that treats gun violence as a public health crisis rather than a pipeline to incarceration.

A Democrat focused on violence, the correspondent quipped. Isnt that a little off-brand?

Well, Im from the Bronx, Ocasio-Cortez shot back, smiling. So its on-brand for where Im from.

Now in its seventh year of existence, the program has shown a 45 percent reduction in gun violence in the areas it serves between 2014 and 2018 compared to the four years prior, a drop that Klepper called impressive.

I can hear how Fox News would spin this, he said. AOC tries to defund the police and fund gang members.

If I spent my time worried about what Fox News said, I wouldnt be here, Ocasio-Cortez responded.

For more, listen to The Daily Shows Jordan Klepper on The Last Laugh podcast.

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Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas Drew Angerer/Getty Images, left, and Alex Wong/Getty Images

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez weighed in on Justice Clarence Thomas' undisclosed luxury trips.

Public servants who want to live a luxury lifestyle "can resign from the court," she said.

Thomas reportedly took undisclosed vacations with a GOP megadonor over the past 20 years.

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez weighed in on Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas' undisclosed luxury trips with a billionaire benefactor, saying public servants who want to live that lifestyle can "resign."

Thomas took vacations with billionaire GOP megadonor Harlan Crow over the past 20 years, traveling on his private jet and superyacht, ProPublica reported. Thomas said he was told it wasn't necessary to publicly report the $500,000 in trips.

Ocasio-Cortez, a New York Democrat, said on the Daily Show that justices shouldn't be "receiving money from people."

"This is why we pay salaries to public servants. And if they want to live that kind of lifestyle, then they can resign from the court. They can retire," she said to applause.

Host Jordan Klepper asked who she thought would write the opinion if conflicting rulings on the abortion pill mifepristone make it to the Supreme Court. "Is it going to be the guy who cried over beer or is it going to be the buddy with Nazi memorabilia guy?" he asked, a reference to Justices Brett Kavanaugh and Thomas, whose friend Crow collects Nazi memorabilia.

Ocasio-Cortez said she hopes it doesn't get to that point. "But we also have to face the reality that the Supreme Court has chosen to give up huge swaths of their own legitimacy," she said, name-checking Chief Justice John Roberts, Thomas, Kavanaugh, and the Republican Party.

"In them giving up trying to take seriously the legitimacy, the standards, the integrity of the court, they have given up a very large degree of their authority," she said.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Workers are busy in the Lingang factory of SAIC Motor in Shanghai. [Photo/Xinhua]



Global carmakers, big and small, are flocking to Auto Shanghai 2023, which is the first brick-and-mortar A-class auto show in the world this year.

Running from April 18 to 27, the biennial Shanghai auto show has attracted 1,000 overseas and Chinese companies.

They are here to showcase their wares for the age of smart electrification and, perhaps more importantly, their bosses can finally have a look for themselves at what the Chinese auto market has become.

For the past three years, since the outbreak of COVID-19, they gleaned information about the world's largest vehicle market mainly through corporate reports from their employees in China.

BMW Group said it is showcasing its largest ever lineup of electrified models, bearing marques from the namesake BMW to Rolls-Royce.

The i7 M70 L, BMW's electric flagship model, is making its global launch. Rolls-Royce's first electric model, the Spectre, is meeting customers for the first time in Asia.

The car group said its electric vehicle sales in China totaled almost 20,000 units for the first quarter, more than tripling the figure in the same period of 2022.

Mercedes-Benz AG has brought its stellar lineup to Shanghai, including the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV, which is the first electric production model from the marque.

Other highlights include the first electric G-Class concept, the EQG, and the China-made EQE SUV, which is the first locally produced electric SUV based on its dedicated EVA platform.

Ola Kaellenius, chairman of the board of management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, is one of the first global automotive executives to arrive in China, already meeting with senior industry officials on Wednesday.

Jin Zhuanglong, minister of industry and information technology, told Kaellenius that China's fast-evolving market is generating unprecedented opportunities for both Chinese and global carmakers.

The country is opening up its sector of high-end manufacturing and global companies are welcome to increase their investment, said Jin.

This visit to China is the second for Kaellenius in three years since the COVID-19 outbreak but also the second for him in a month. He attended the China Development Forum in late March in Beijing.

Oliver Blume, chairman of the board of management of Volkswagen AG, is heading a delegation of over 100 members to the Shanghai auto show, including those from its marques from Porsche to Audi.

A Volkswagen employee told China Daily that it is great that they can come and have a look for themselves. "They just didn't understand why the electric models sell well in Europe but not here in China," said the employee.

Blume is presumably curious as well. He was the first global auto executive to visit China this year, when he arrived in February.

He said his top concern was "the people"; to motivate its employees and listen to its customers; and to "get a feeling of how the country has changed and what the expectations of Chinese customers are".

Dirk Hilgenberg, CEO of Cariad, which is Volkswagen's software arm, arrived in Beijing on Tuesday to ink a joint venture with ThunderSoft, a well-known intelligent operating system products and technologies provider.

The new partnership is designed to accelerate the development of Volkswagen's connectivity and infotainment systems in China.

"A seamless, integrated and personalized user experience is becoming a key differentiator for software-defined vehicles," said Hilgenberg.

"Through the strategic partnership with ThunderSoft, CARIAD is committed to providing scalable, innovative solutions for infotainment and connectivity in China at a faster speed," he said.

Global executives are correct when they decided not to limit their activities to the auto show itself but look for novelties in the wider market.

Last week, China's BYD unveiled its Yunnian vehicle control system, which it claimed is the first example globally dedicated to NEVs. A video from BYD shows that a sedan featuring the system does not lose its stability even when it has only three tires left.

Lian Yubo, executive vice-president of BYD, said the Yunnian-P, one of the Yunnian products, will first be used in its luxury Yangwang U8 off-roader, which is also showcased at the Shanghai auto show.

Geekr, the electric premium brand of Geely, unveiled its latest crossover last week, vowing to take aim at the German trio of Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

Among other features, a swipe on the display will move the screen from the center to the front of the first-row passenger.

Nio, one of China's most popular EV startups, is showcasing six models on its second-generation platform, including the new ES6 which has been wooing car buyers away from global premium brands.

Nio founder and CEO Li Bin said he is confident that Nio can beat sales of Lexus' gasoline and electric models combined in China this year.
Last year, Apple launched a new feature for iPhone users who are worried about getting targeted with sophisticated spyware, such as journalists or human rights defenders. Now, researchers say they have found evidence that the feature  called Lockdown Mode  helped block an attack by hackers using spyware made by the infamous mercenary hacking provider NSO Group.

On Tuesday, the cybersecurity and human rights research group Citizen Lab released a report analyzing three new zero-day exploits in iOS 15 and iOS 16  meaning Apple was unaware of the vulnerabilities at the time they were used to target at least two Mexican human rights defenders.

One of those exploits was blocked by Lockdown Mode, the researchers found. Lockdown Mode was specifically designed to reduce the iPhones attack surface  cybersecurity lingo referring to parts of the code or features of a system prone to attacks by hackers. This is the first documented case where Lockdown Mode has successfully protected someone from a targeted attack.

In the recent cases, Citizen Lab researchers said that the targets' iPhones blocked the hacking attempts and showed a notification saying Lockdown Mode prevented someone from accessing the phones Home app. The researchers, however, note that its possible that at some point NSOs exploit developers may have figured out a way to correct the notification issue, such as by fingerprinting Lockdown Mode.

As other researchers have pointed out in the past, its easy to fingerprint users to determine who has Lockdown Mode turned on, but thats not to say its protections are not meaningful. As this case found by Citizen Lab shows, Lockdown Mode can be effective.

The fact that Lockdown Mode seems to have thwarted, and even notified targets of a real-world zero-click attack shows that it is a powerful mitigation, and is a cause for great optimism, Bill Marczak, a senior researcher at Citizen Lab and one of the authors of the report, told TechCrunch. But, as with any optional feature, the devil is always in the details. How many people will opt to turn on Lockdown Mode? Will attackers simply move away from exploiting Apple apps and target third-party apps, which are harder for Lockdown Mode to secure?

Story continues

Apple spokesperson Scott Radcliffe said in a statement: We are pleased to see that Lockdown Mode disrupted this sophisticated attack and alerted users immediately, even before the specific threat was known to Apple and security researchers. Our security teams around the world will continue to work tirelessly to advance Lockdown Mode and strengthen the security and privacy protections in iOS.

NSO Group spokesperson Liron Bruck did not respond to a series of questions, instead sending a statement saying that Citizen Lab has repeatedly produced reports that are unable to determine the technology in use and they refuse to share their underlying data. NSO adheres to strict regulation and its technology is used by its governmental customers to fight terror and crime around the world.

Citizen Lab's report identified three different exploits  all zero-click, meaning they did not require any interaction by the target  by analyzing several phones that were suspected to have been hacked with NSOs spyware, also known as Pegasus.

Pegasus, which NSO sells exclusively to government customers, can remotely obtain a phone's location, messages, photos and virtually anything the phones legitimate owner can access. For years, researchers at Citizen Lab, Amnesty International and other organizations have documented several cases where NSO customers used the companys spyware to target journalists, human rights defenders and opposition politicians.

Citizen Labs new findings show that NSO is still alive and well, despite a rocky past couple of years. In 2021, an international consortium of media organizations launched the Pegasus Project, a series of articles detailing scandals involving NSO all over the world. Then, later that year, the U.S. government put NSO on a denylist, effectively barring any U.S. company or individual from doing business with the company.

Other companies have folded, but, at least for now, NSO is still able to bear these increased costs, and Pegasus remains an active threat to global civil society, Marczak said.

Of the recent batch of exploits: The first exploit was deployed in January 2022 by NSO customers and exploited the iPhones FindMy feature, which helps owners locate their lost or stolen phones. The second exploit deployed starting in June 2022 and is a two-step exploit, meaning it targets two features, in this case the FindMy feature and iMessage. And the last exploit, deployed starting in October 2022 exploited the iPhone's HomeKit and iMessage functionalities.

In its report, Citizen Lab said the two Mexicans targeted by the exploits investigate human rights violations allegedly carried out by the Mexican military. The Mexican government is a known spyware customer.

Citizen Lab reported all these exploits to Apple, which have since then pushed updates and reduced the attack surface. Apple fixed the HomeKit-based vulnerability in iOS 16.3.1, released in February.

Do you have more information about NSO Group? Or another surveillance tech provider? Wed love to hear from you. You can contact Lorenzo Franceschi-Bicchierai securely on Signal at +1 917 257 1382, or via Wickr, Telegram and Wire @lorenzofb, or email lorenzo@techcrunch.com. You can also contact TechCrunch via SecureDrop.
Apple opened its first retail store in India on Tuesday, underscoring the US tech titan's increasing focus on the South Asian nation as a key sales market and alternative manufacturing hub to China.

Apple CEO Tim Cook personally opened the doors to welcome customers as staff cheered.

Hundreds of admirers of the iPhone giant queued around the store in a swanky shopping mall in the financial capital Mumbai, some of them waiting overnight.

The California-based firm is betting big on the nation of 1.4 billion people -- home to the second-highest number of smartphone users in the world, after China -- with a second store to open in the capital Delhi on Thursday.

The world's biggest company in terms of market value is also expanding its manufacturing footprint in India as it seeks to diversify its supply chain away from a heavy dependence on neighbouring China.

Apple called the stores a "major expansion" of its presence in India in a statement on Monday.

"We're excited to build on our longstanding history," Cook said in the statement.

Apple launched its online store in India in 2020, but had not opened an official physical shop until now due to previous investment rules, since relaxed, requiring foreign retailers to source 30 percent of raw materials locally, and pandemic delays.

Sales and marketing executive Purav Mehta, 30, camped overnight outside the store ahead of the opening, bringing with him his still-unopened 2013 iPod Touch.

"We've been looking forward to it... for a long time we've been waiting for this," he told AFP.

Stationery dealer Madhav Mimani, 27, travelled about 900 kilometres (560 miles) from Rajasthan for the event.

"I think with Apple manufacturing in India, the prices are going to go down because it's local manufacturing, which makes the iPhones affordable," he said.

"It also increases chances of the Indians buying iPhones made in India because of the sentimental value."

India has more than 600 million smartphone users, with Android devices dominating the price-sensitive market.

Story continues

Chinese smartphone makers Xiaomi, vivo, OPPO and realme had a combined market share of 66 percent in 2022, according to research firm Canalys, while Samsung held a 19 percent share.

Apple's iPhones compete in the premium segment of the market and had just a four percent share last year.

But Canalys analyst Sanyam Chaurasia told AFP that Apple could benefit from the premiumisation of India's smartphone market and financing schemes for both retailers and consumers.

"Apple is emphasising more on the Indian market because they see more opportunity," he said.

- Supply chain -

Cook said in a February earnings call that "India is a hugely exciting market for us and is a major focus".

"We are, in essence, taking what we learned in China years ago and how we scale... and bringing that to bear.

Apple was "putting a significant amount of energy" into India, he added, saying he was "very bullish" on the country.

India is also becoming central to Apple's plans to shift its production of devices and components away from China amid diplomatic tensions between Washington and Beijing and the supply chain fallout from strict Covid policies.

Just one percent of Apple's iPhones were made in India in 2021, but that jumped to seven percent last year, Bloomberg News reported last week, citing sources.

The company began manufacturing iPhones in India in 2017 through Taiwanese suppliers Foxconn, Wistron and Pegatron.

Foxconn said in March that its chairman had visited India but there was no "definitive agreement" for investments in the country after the chief minister of Karnataka in the south said iPhones would be manufactured in his state.

grk/slb/cwl
Nick Marinaro, who serves in the Navy, hugs his daughter Madelyn Marinaro, 5, before her pre-kindergarten class at Las Posas Elementary School in Camarillo Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2023. The school received a state award for serving military families. Nearly half the students are military children.

Since 1986, April has been designated as the Month of the Military Child by the United States Department of Defense. This is a legacy of Defense Secretary Caspar Weinberger as a time to applaud military children and the daily sacrifices they make and the challenges that they overcome. These children are often overlooked, but they play a vital role in supporting our military and their contributions should be celebrated.

The Court system intersects with every segment of the population and military families are not excluded. Military children come into Juvenile and Family Courts in times of celebration like adoptions; times of stress like their parents divorcing; times of poor decision making like juvenile offender court; and, unfortunately, times of danger like being neglected and/or abused.

Their cases take on unique challenges since many times their support system other than their parents may be several states away or in multiple states. In addition, the children tend to move often from duty station to duty station with their parents uprooting their home, school and friends. This can be a daunting experience for any child, but military children must do it repeatedly. Moreover, they have to deal with one or more of their parents being in training or deployed for long periods of timemany times to a war zone.

More: Coming Tuesday: 'Safer Sidelines,' an investigation into sudden death in youth sports

Despite these challenges, military children are an important part of our military and civilian communities. They provide support and stability to their parents and siblings, and they often become leaders within their peer groups. They learn to be self-reliant and independentskills that will serve them well throughout their lives.

These resilient children deserve recognition year-round, not just one month of the year. Right now there are roughly 1.7 million dependent military children across all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. About 1 million of these children are children of active duty servicemembers. The remaining 700,000 dependent military children are children of guard or reserve units. Over 650,000 of these military children are ages 5 or under.

Story continues

The month of the military child is an opportunity to honor and celebrate these incredible children. It is a time to recognize their sacrifices and to raise awareness of the unique challenges that they face.

For Subscribers: The most beloved man in Schnitzelburg might just be Tip, a 98-year-old bingo caller

In honor of these military children, I would urge you to participate in Month of Military Child events.

In addition, if you know of a military family, do something for their children to thank these young heroes for their sacrifice for our country. I would also encourage you and your family to wear purple ribbons all of April to signify your support for our military children.

As a country, a state and a community, we owe all our military families gratitude and support for what they do to defend our country and secure our freedoms. Join me in honoring them this April. Together we can make show these young people our thanks for their unique contributions and sacrifices made on behalf of our country.

Jason Shea Fleming

Jason Shea Fleming is a Family Court Judge in Christian County which is home of Fort Campbell. He has served as a Family Court Judge since 2007.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: April is the Month of the Military Child. Celebrate their resilience.
The moment King Charles III is anointed during his coronation on 6 May will be one of stillness and simplicity, the Archbishop of Canterbury has said.

In his foreword for the official coronation souvenir programme, Justin Welby said the sacred ceremony will be the only part of the ceremony the public will not see.

He wrote of the magnificence and pomp of the historic occasion  Britains first coronation since that of the late Queen Elizabeth II in 1953  but added: In the midst of this glorious spectacle is a moment of stillness and simplicity.

Welby also revealed that during the mysterious anointing ceremony, the King will swap his robes of status and honour for a simple white shirt.

This signifies the monarch as coming before God as a servant in the full knowledge that the task is difficult and he needs help.

In the full knowledge that, even as King, he is one of the people and that even if he has a particular role to fulfil, he shares in our human frailties and vulnerabilities, the archbishop continued.

It also marks the moment that the King is set apart for service: service of the people of this country and service of God. This is why at this moment he will exchange robes of status and honour for a simple white shirt.

His Majesty will follow in his mothers footsteps in blocking the anointing ceremony from public view.

King Charles, previously the Prince of Wales, greets the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby in 2013. The monarch will be anointed by the Archbishop during the coronation ceremony on 6 May 2023 (Getty Images)

Although Queen Elizabeths coronation was the first ever to be televised, she sat under a canopy that was held above her by four Knights of the Garter that shielded her from the cameras when the moment of the anointing arrived.

Welby described how coronations often carry with them the hopes and prayers of nations for peace, justice and the common good.

The 84-page official souvenir costs 20 and went on sale on Monday (17 April). It features a family portrait of Charles and Camilla, the now-Prince and Princess of Wales and their children, and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.

It comes after Buckingham Palace confirmed that Prince Harry will attend the ceremony, but his wife Meghan Markle will remain in California with their two children.

A percentage of the sales of the souvenir programme will be divided between the Royal Collection Trust and SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity.

Additional reporting by PA
Ardrey Kell High School has a bat problem.

About 22 bats  some alive, some dead  were recovered from inside the high school Monday morning, a spokeswoman for the Mecklenburg County Public Health Department told The Charlotte Observer. It is unclear where they were found inside the school. On Tuesday, a statement from Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools said there were ongoing incidents involving bats at the south Charlotte high school.

CMS said in a news release it will switch Ardrey Kell High to asynchronous instruction Wednesday and Thursday to protect the safety and health of students and staff at the school while bat eviction measures are underway.

A decision on any additional closures at the school for the bat eviction will be shared Thursday afternoon, the district said.

Suzette Nedrich, of the health department, says CMS reported the Ardrey Kell High bats to the health department Monday, and the district called the vendor Critter Control to assess and remove the bats. They have been transferred to CMPDs Animal Care and Control.

Bats are being sent to the NC State Public Health Laboratory in Raleigh for rabies testing, Nedrich said.

At this time, there is no evidence of human exposure, but public health continues to investigate and expects testing results later this week, she said Monday.

But its not the first time things have gotten batty at Ardrey Kell.

Nedrich told the Observer CMS hired Critter Control in March to assess and address ways bats enter the school following the discovery of two of the mammals. Then, there was no human exposure, either, and the bats were sent to the states public health laboratory, where they tested negative for rabies.

BATS IN YOUR HOUSE? Here's how to get them out.

Concerned parents posted on a private Ardrey Kell High Facebook page Monday asking what people can do to get the bat issue addressed. Some said that teachers helped remove the bats. CMS said that claim isnt true.

Thus far, there is no evidence of disease in the bats or any reported human exposure (e.g. physical contact, bites, etc.) within our students or staff, the district said in a statement provided Monday to the Observer.

Story continues

The districts statement Tuesday didnt say whether there was student or staff contact with additional bats.

Rules to handle bats

Bats often use buildings  including schools  as a refuge, according to Texas A&M Universitys AgriLife Extension. Because bats can pose health hazards for people, school districts should develop a site-specific, bat-management plan that includes education, training, prevention and response strategies, the extension service says.

Bats are not dangerous and do not attack people, according to the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences in Raleigh. But they do carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans, including rabies.

The museum says never pick up a bat from the ground and encourages people to remember that bats are not aggressive when rabid or otherwise ill. So, even if they appear docile and safe, they should not be handled.
A teenager from Arkansas unexpectedly caught and released a 12-pound largemouth bass while fishing for crappie, and his impressive catch was recognized by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Fisheries Division.

Logan Cernosek, 15, of northeast Arkansas, reeled in a 12-pound, 4-ounce bass during a recent fishing trip he took in Randolph County, according to a Facebook post shared by the AGFC Fisheries Division.

The ninth grader told the wildlife agency he caught the bass on Sunday, April 2.

SOUTH CAROLINA TEEN CATCHES INVASIVE PIRANHA-LIKE FISH, SPARKS REMINDERS THAT IT'S ILLEGAL TO RELEASE: REPORT

Cernosek said he and a friend set a four-pound test line for crappie, a freshwater game fish thats generally smaller than largemouth bass.

Logan Cernosek, a 15-year-old high school student from Arkansas, unexpectedly caught a 12-pound, 4-ounce largemouth bass while fishing from crappie on April 2, 2023.

"I thought I was hooked on a log, but then I realized it was a huge fish," Cernosek said in a statement to the AGFC Fisheries Division.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

The AGFC Fisheries Division reports that Cernosek weighed the largemouth bass with a portable scale before he released it.

Crappies are a North American freshwater game fish that are a part of the sunfish family. Logan Cernosek of Arkansas caught several in April 2023 while fishing with a friend in Randolph County.

"Logan said he never thought he would catch a bass this big in his lifetime," the AGFC Fisheries Division wrote on Facebook.

MINNESOTA FISHERMAN'S NORTHERN PIKE TIES WITH STATE'S 2-YEAR CATCH-AND-RELEASE RECORD: 'VERY LARGE FISH'

The state largemouth bass record was established in March 1976 by Tennessee resident, Aaron Mardis, who caught a 16-pound, 8-ounce bass from the Mallard Lake, which is between the Arkansas and Tennessee border.

The reported world record for largemouth bass is a tie between the United States and Japan, according to a record from the International Game Fish Association, a nonprofit fishing record keeper.

Both countries reportedly had anglers who caught a 22-pound and 4-ounce bass.

The world record bass caught from the U.S. was reportedly caught in 1932 from the Montgomery Lake in Georgia.

OKLAHOMA AUTHORITIES ASK FISHING GUIDES TO REMOVE AN INVASIVE SPECIES FROM STATE WATERS: 'DO NOT RETURN IT'

In Japan, the world record bass catch was reportedly caught in 2009 from Lake Biwa in Shiga, a Japanese prefecture to the east of Kyoto, located on the island of Honshu.

Story continues

Crappies are a North American freshwater game fish who are a part of the sunfish family. Logan Cernosek of Arkansas caught several in April 2023 while fishing with a friend in Randolph County.

Beside the 12-pound, 4-ounce bass, Cernosek and his fishing companion reportedly caught several crappies during their trip and shared photos of the successful haul.

"Looks like they didn't do too shabby on the crappie either!" The AGFC Fisheries Division wrote in reference to the pairs crappie catch on Facebook.
An arrest warrant has been issued for a man police say attempted to rob a South Oakland gas station.

Alex Douglas Suttle, 31, is charged with robbery and criminal attempt for allegedly attempting to rob the Sunoco on Craft Avenue around 1:30 p.m. April 9.

An employee told officers a man, later identified as Suttle, approached the counter and asked for cigarettes. He allegedly pushed his hand, which was inside a plastic shopping bag, under the Plexiglass at the register and demanded money, according to the criminal complaint. The employee refused and Suttle fled the store.

Officers used video surveillance to identify Suttle, who was carrying a Virginia license when he encountered police April 11, according to the criminal complaint.

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The homeowner accused of shooting a Black teenager after he rang the wrong doorbell to pick up his younger siblings in Kansas City, Missouri, surrendered to police Tuesday afternoon, officials said.

Sarah Boyd, public relations manager at the Clay County Sheriffs Office, said in a statement to NBC News that Andrew Lester, 84, was in custody, one day after a warrant was issued for his arrest.

Lester, who is white, was charged on Monday with assault in the first degree and armed criminal action following the April 13 shooting of Ralph Yarl, 16, Clay County Prosecuting Attorney Zachary Thompson said during a press conference on Monday.

"I can tell you there was a racial component to the case," Thompson said, declining to elaborate further.

Ralph Yarl. (via Ben Crump Law)

Yarl, a junior in high school, went to pick up his younger twin brothers from a friend's home, but mistakenly arrived at 1100 block of Northeast 115th Street instead of Northeast 115th Terrace, police and lawyers for the Yarl family said.

"Whoever was inside took a little longer than he anticipated to respond, and so he just waited at the door," Lee Merritt, an attorney representing the Yarl family, told NBC News.

Lester thought Yarl was attempting to break into his home and told investigators he was "scared to death," according to the probable cause warrant.

"(Yarl) heard rustling around going on in the house and then finally the door was open," Merritt continued. "And he was confronted by a man who told him, 'Don't come back around here,' and then he immediately fired his weapon."

Yarl never crossed into Lester's home and was shot through a glass door with a .32 revolver, Thompson said.

The teenager was hit once in the head, cracking his skull and causing a traumatic brain injury, and then struck again in the upper right arm while he was lying on the ground, Merritt said.

Merritt said Yarl ran for help and knocked on multiple doors until a neighbor answered. That neighbor told him to "put his hands in the air and lie on the ground," Merritt said.

Story continues

Ralph Yarl (via GoFundMe)

Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves said during an April 16 press conference officers recovered a firearm from the scene, and added she recognized "the racial components of this case."

"I want everyone to know that I am listening and I understand the concern we are receiving from the community," Graves said.

Yarl is in stable condition and out of the hospital, Merritt said. But the teenager has questioned how the encounter turned violent so quickly, his aunt Faith Spoonmore told NBC News.

"We'll remind him like, 'Ralph, you're alive, buddy.' And then he has the times where hes like, 'Why? I did nothing wrong.' And he just cannot understand why," Spoonmore said. "So its waves. He goes through waves."

The shooting has sparked protests in Kansas City as well as around the country, with some demonstrators saying Yarl's race played a role in the shooting.

President Joe Biden called the teenager on Monday and invited him to the White House, Merritt said.

Yarl is an "excellent student and talented musician," North Kansas City Schools Superintendent Dan Clemens said in a statement to NBC News.

The high school junior is a member of the jazz and competition band, Spoonmore said.

Yarls former teacher Megan Lilien told NBC News his goal is to study chemical engineering in college.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
An artist who won a prestigious Sony World Photography award has refused to accept the award because it was partially generated by artificial intelligence.

German artist Boris Eldagsen said he declined the award in a push for photography and AI images to be judged separately in competition.

Eldagsen was named the creative category winner in the open competition on March 14 for his work titled "The Electrician." The image is part of a series called Pseudomnesia, or "Fake memories."

According to his website, the series was "co-produced" using artificial intelligence image generators and re-edited between 20 to 40 times.

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Organizers were 'supportive of his participation'

Eldagsen said organizers initially knew nothing about his image being AI-generated.

According to him, he entered the competition without providing information about how the image was produced in December 2022.

But over the next few months, he found out he was shortlisted and sent over the image's history of publication and eventually, its title.

The World Photography Organisation insists Eldagsen told organizers he had completed "co-creation" of the image using AI before the win was announced.

When he found out he won, Eldagsen said he told organizers that his work, and the image, were part of his attempt to explore AI generators. He also offered to hold an open discussion about the differences between AI-generated images and photography.

He said organizers were fine with him keeping the award but when they announced him as the winner, they didn't explain that the image was AI-generated.

In a statement to USA TODAY, the organization said the creative category of the open competition that he won approves experimental approaches, including digital practices. Organizers approved his entry based on what he told them, the group said.

Story continues

"We were supportive of his participation," organizers said in a statement.

Eldagsen's information and image were removed from the website.

His refusal of the award

On April 13 at an award ceremony in London, Eldagsen thanked judges for selecting his image but posed the questions "How many of you knew or suspected that it was AI generated? Something about this doesnt feel right, does it?"

He argued that AI images do not count as photography nor should they be judged in the same competitions, refusing to accept the award.

He also called for an "open discussion" about what is considered photography and what isn't.

"With my refusal of the award I hope to speed up this debate," he said.

"I applied as a cheeky monkey, to find out, if the (competitions) are prepared for AI images to enter," he said at the award ceremony in London. "They are not."

Saleen Martin is a reporter on USA TODAY's NOW team. She is from Norfolk, Virginia  the 757  and loves all things horror, witches, Christmas, and food. Follow her on Twitter at @Saleen_Martin or email her at sdmartin@usatoday.com.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Artist declines Sony photography award because image was AI-generated
Athens-Clarke police are investigating two recent shootings that left the victims hospitalized with serious wounds.

The most recent shooting occurred about 4:30 p.m. Monday on Hawthorne Extension, where the victim was found unconscious with a gunshot wound to his neck.

Police said Joshua Lamar Scott, 32, of Calvin Street, Athens, is hospitalized in critical condition at Piedmont Athens Regional Medical Center.

Police Lt. Shaun Barnett said Tuesday morning there are no suspects in the shooting. Police reported that upon arriving at the scene of the shooting in a residential neighborhood off Hawthorne Avenue, they found two people attempting to assist Scott.

The persons were described as passersby as officer have not located a witness to the actual shooting, according to Barnett.

Police are still investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting and who is involved, Barnett said.

In an unrelated shooting that occurred Sunday, police are searching for Ambria Shantara Rhodes, 29, of Coleridge Court, whom they identified as the shooter. As of Tuesday, she has not been located, police said.

Rhodes is wanted in connection with the shooting of Ayeshia M. Bullock, 29, of Athens, who was shot in the head and was taken to Piedmont Regional.

Police said this shooting occurred about 12:40 a.m. on Coleridge Court during what callers on 911 described as a riot situation.

The officer arrived on Coleridge Court, located off Lexington Highway, to find a large group of people screaming and pointing to a woman, who was bleeding from a bullet wound to her jaw, according to the report.

The witnesses told police that Rhodes was at the Coleridge Court location trying to fight people and that she opened fire with a pistol three times hitting the victim, who was in the area visiting friends and was not involved in a dispute with the suspect, according to the report.

Barnett said that anyone with information on the whereabouts of Rhodes is asked to call 911.

This article originally appeared on Athens Banner-Herald: Two hospitalized in two unrelated shootings in Athens
This photo taken on Nov. 6, 2022 shows a new energy vehicle of German automaker Mercedes-Benz at the automobile exhibition area of the fifth China International Import Expo (CIIE) at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) in east China's Shanghai. [Photo/Xinhua]



Exhibits worth 25 million U.S. dollars have been imported for the 20th Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition, Shanghai Customs said on Monday.

This year's auto exhibition, also known as Auto Shanghai 2023, declared a total of 123 batches of imported exhibits, representing an increase of 34 percent from Auto Shanghai 2021. The total value of the imported exhibits this year is 25 million dollars, up 19 percent from 2021.

Auto Shanghai 2023 is scheduled to be held from April 18 to 27, at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai), with an exhibition area of more than 360,000 square meters.

It is the first A-class international auto show to be held in China since the country optimized its COVID-19 response, attracting over 1,000 exhibitors globally.
A man driving an ATV fatally struck another man during an argument that escalated, according to a Florida sheriffs office.

Deputies responded to a call in Land O Lakes around 10 p.m. on April 17, according to a news release from the Pasco Sheriffs Office.

Dale Slaunwhite, 52, is accused of hitting and killing another man, according to the sheriffs office.

The two men knew each other, but the sheriffs office would not elaborate on their relationship.

The sheriffs office did not release any information about the victim. The Pasco County Medical Examiners Office did not return a call from McClatchy News requesting information.

Slaunwhite was charged with murder, the release says.

Detectives are continuing the investigation and say there is no threat to the public.

Land O Lakes is about 20 miles north of Tampa.

82-year-old man on ATV plunges through frozen lake and dies, Vermont officials say

Truck driver threatens to shoot ATV riders dog and rams the ATV off road, NH cops say

7-year-old dies after hes thrown from ATV driven by intoxicated man, Ohio police say
A few dozen Holocaust survivors on Tuesday led a march in southern Poland to commemorate victims of Auschwitz-Birkenau, on the eve of the anniversary of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising.

Every year, thousands of people from around the world -- both Jewish and not -- take part in the event held at the site of the former death camp built by Nazi Germany after it invaded Poland.

One million European Jews died at the camp in the city of Oswiecim between 1940 and 1945 along with around 80,000 non-Jewish Poles, 25,000 Roma and 20,000 Soviet soldiers.

The camp was liberated by the Red Army in January 1945.

The 35th edition of the March of the Living began with the doleful sound of the shofar -- a traditional Jewish ram's horn symbolising freedom -- at the notorious "Arbeit Macht Frei" (Work Will Set You Free) gate at Auschwitz.

The three-kilometre march was notably attended this year by Italian President Sergio Mattarella and Israeli Education Minister Yoav Kisch.

On Wednesday, Warsaw will commemorate the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, which broke out 80 years ago on April 19, 1943.

The presidents of Israel and Germany will be in attendance and are expected to visit the site of the former Jewish district.

The Germans confined up to 450,000 Jews to an area of just over three square kilometres -- most of whom died of starvation or disease inside or were taken to a death camp to the east of Warsaw.

mmp-bo/amj/giv
Students leave Withrow University High School in Hyde Park after the final bell April 12.

A spike in violence this year is leaving teens shot and bleeding at their bus stop after school.

The year's first quarter is one of the worst on record in Cincinnati for youth gun violence. The spate of shootings has left three teens dead and another 14 wounded. That compares to just three teen shooting victims during the same period last year.

The April 4 shooting at a bus stop outside Woodward Career Technical High School left two teens wounded, and another three juveniles have been arrested in connection with the attack.

The mayor, police, educators and the community at large recognize the crisis and are vowing change. Students and community members gathered at the school a week after the shooting brainstorming ways to overcome the problem.

Community members met April 12 at Woodward Career Technical High School to brainstorm ideas about ending violence about a week after two teens were shot at a bus stop after school. Cincinnati is reeling from youth-involved gun violence this year.

Looking throughout the city, at least one neighborhood, Avondale, has seen recent success. Several local community leaders told The Enquirer that it took collaboration among a variety of players to prevent shootings there. But they also said the city needs to find more money so the programs can scale up and reach enough teens in the city.

What's happening in Avondale

The shootings have been spread throughout the city: Westwood, Bond Hill, Evanston, West Price Hill, West End.

To answer why is complicated, but there are people who wrestle with the issue every day and have an idea of what is happening, what needs to be done and whether that kind of change can be sustained.

Maybe Avondale has an answer, neighbors there said.

The neighborhood is also on that list of places commonly tormented with gunfire but with a notable gap this spring. There weren't any shootings  involving teens or adults  in Avondale for the whole month of March.

More: At this point last year, 3 teens had been shot in Cincinnati. This year? 17

The Rev. Ennis Tait, pastor of New Beginnings Church of the Living God, said the neighborhood saw peace in part because of a huge effort by churches, the recreation center, police and other partners to come together and support kids during spring break.

Story continues

Two churches took meals directly to buildings that have a high number of kids living there. Tait worked with property management companies to provide food to kids as well.

The library offered extended programming. The Hirsch Recreation Center was open during all the hours that school would have been open. Tait's innovation lab hosted times for kids to hang out or watch TV.

In just the first few months of 2023, 17 teens have been shot in Cincinnati, a significant spike over previous years. Groups in Avondale have been addressing the violence in their neighborhood.

Tait said what happened in Avondale demonstrates two solutions that can prevent the violence from spiraling out of control: bringing organizations together and funding those already doing the work.

He said the strategies used during spring break worked, but more funding is needed to sustain those efforts and scale them.

Kids are in 'survival mode'

"We're searching for solutions when the answers are already here," he said.

Tait's organization, Project Lifeline, works with about 20 kids every week, providing food, haircuts and mentoring.

It is these kinds of mentoring groups that pull at-risk kids through the struggles they face to give them better outcomes, National Institute of Justice Journal research shows.

But Tait said his program and others like it in Cincinnati are chronically underfunded, and the work costs money. As an example, he said his church spends $400 a month on snacks alone for the kids in the neighborhood.

The Rev. Ennis Tait has been working to prevent youth violence in Avondale.

"Most of these young people are feeling the pinch of what their parents are experiencing, mostly with housing. A lot of our young people are homeless," he said. "Most of our young people are in survival mode."

More: More teens are facing murder charges. How it came to this

He said parents, pastors, police, principals, physicians and probation officers all need to come together to support the kids. It's not enough for there to be partnerships between some of the groups. The spring break drive was an example of how that kind of collaboration can work, he said. Kids need the wraparound services.

"It's been a hard journey," Tait said. "The consistency here is, we can't abandon them when they've done wrong."

Tait believes that even if teens get incarcerated or spend time in juvenile detention, they have to have a positive community to come back to.

Everyone at the same table

After the double shooting outside Woodward Career Technical High School this month, The Enquirer posed a question to a number of leaders in the city: What can be done to address youth violence?

A frequent answer? Work together.

There are too many groups and organizations working in silos, they said. That includes nonprofits and community organizations as well as governmental organizations such as police, schools and the court system.

The city does fund violence reduction initiatives through its $17.5 million human services fund, according to Cincinnati City Council member Meeka Owens. That money, which the United Way of Greater Cincinnati distributes, also goes toward workforce development and supporting high-risk communities.

Councilwoman Meeka Owens said the city funds violence reduction initiatives through its "human services" fund, but that city council needs to review how this money is spent.

Owens said city council needs to review how this money is spent. Recently the city passed ordinances requiring that firearms be stored safely and expanding restrictions on firearm possession for those convicted of domestic violence offenses.

Cincinnati Police Chief Theresa Theetge asked council last week to continue to support the new crime gun intelligence center, a partnership between the department and federal partners, which uses new technologies to track how guns move throughout the city and focus on pinning down violent offenders.

Coming together

Tait said what's happening in Avondale can happen across the city. Lawyer Michele Young, who has worked with Cincinnati Public Schools on bullying, echoed his remarks.

"We have dozens and dozens of nonprofits," she said. "The resources are there, we just haven't brought them all together to say, 'We're not going to lose children to violence.'"

Hamilton County Juvenile Court Judge Kari Bloom said she hopes the court can provide a space for just such a collaboration to take place. She said the court is responsible for protecting children and the community.

"Our court does not have to be reactionary even though that is what it has been traditionally," Bloom said. "If we continue to sit back and process cases, we're saying there's nothing we can do."

Bloom said she's creating a violence prevention team to work with the court's community partners and go into the community to directly work with people. She said she expects to have it operating by the end of the summer.

Hamilton County Juvenile Court Judge Kari Bloom said she is helping to create a violence prevention team that she hopes will be operating by the end of the summer.

Mental health supports are lacking

The juvenile court struggles to find enough mental health providers, Bloom said.

"We're a guaranteed payer and cannot find people to help kids, and those are only the kids we know about," Bloom said.

When it comes to the greater population, teens who have not found themselves in legal trouble, the story is the same.

The rise in teen shootings this year is heartbreaking but not surprising to Ashley Glass, who works in promoting health equity and is the founder and CEO of the advocacy group Black Women Cultivating Change.

There isnt enough mental health programming in Cincinnati, Glass said, and teens are turning to violence out of curiosity, boredom, a need for attention and a lack of other outlets to release built-up trauma tension.

I think a lot of our youth programming phases out around 12, she said. And so you have this age group from 13 to 18 where you have a lot of youth just not having mentors, programming and positive influences. So they end up getting into a lot of situations that they dont need to be in.

The programming in Cincinnati is mostly reactive, Glass said, not preventive. And even when there are resources available for kids, kids dont know how to find them. Or they dont have the capacity or language to ask for the support they need.

More kids arrested in gun crimes have no prior record

Ken Parker, the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, grew up in Cincinnati's East Walnut Hills and Evanston neighborhoods.

"When I was growing up, if a kid had a gun, everyone knew because there were only one or two in the community," Parker said. "Now the attitude in society is that everyone has a gun."

Ken Parker, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, serves as a co-chair of a subcommittee on juvenile violence and radicalization.

Kids get guns from their parents and car break-ins. They buy and sell them with their friends online. Probation officers and judges in juvenile court say it is astonishing how easy it is to get guns.

But Parker said the ease of access to firearms does not explain everything.

"Guns are only going to go as far as the mind takes them," he said. "There's something else there."

Parker serves as a co-chair of a subcommittee on juvenile violence and radicalization that provides input to the U.S. Attorney General's Advisory Council. He said the committee refers to youth who turn to violence as being "radicalized," a word typically associated with a person turning to terrorism or hate groups. The process is similar, Parker said.

"Their life has to have a purpose, have a meaning," Parker said. " When they lose that, that's where you have problems."

Parker and Bloom both said they are seeing this process happen more rapidly in recent years.

"More kids are going from zero to 100," Bloom said.

"Coming out of COVID, young people seem to be quicker to go to violent measures than they were before," Parker said.

They said that, in the past, teens who shot people often had long records in the courts. There were truancy issues, theft issues or other criminal activity that led up to the violent offense. Now, Parker said, more of the kids charged with gun offense have "no resume"  no prior record.

"More kids are coming in and their first charge is felonious assault," Bloom said.

Bloom said it's not a failure of the juvenile court system to rehabilitate youth because so many haven't had contact with court before, but she said she believes it is a failure of some systems.

There's some disagreement over what should happen to these kids, however.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers said juveniles who commit gun crimes were getting too much leniency in juvenile court.

Hamilton County Prosecutor Melissa Powers said that "community-based treatment for kids who shoot people is not an effective strategy."

"Community-based treatment for kids who shoot people is not an effective strategy," Powers said. "Juveniles arrested for gun charges should not be released back into the community. Until we accept that, we will continue to see these trends rise."

Bloom declined to comment on Powers' statement.

Pandemic takes a toll on at-risk kids

The COVID-19 pandemic had major impact on gun violence nationwide. Cincinnati saw record numbers of homicides in 2020 and 2021, and it wasn't the only city to see the trend.

While homicides have decreased in the past year and a half, the people in Cincinnati working with kids said COVID-19 and the disruptions it caused to school and home life are having a lingering effect on kids.

Bloom said the social services offered during the pandemic changed. There were additional community supports: a push to get internet in every home, evictions were put on hold, partners got stimulus checks and monthly child tax credits. Now those efforts are being scaled back. Kids are sometimes getting lost in the fallout.

Carlton Collins, a local activist and program manager for The Literacy Labs Leading Men Fellowship, believes the pandemic played a different role in the surge in gun violence.

Carlton Collins works with kindergarten students at Rising Stars Academy in Mount Auburn in 2022.

He said everyone had to learn new ways to survive during the pandemic, and for some kids, those survival tactics "had nothing to do with anything positive or safe." Kids in negligent homes were left in traumatic situations with no escape to school or anywhere else during that time, and now the city is left with the fallout.

"I don't think this is the end of it," Collins said. "I think we may have another year before we stabilize."

'Chasing an illusion'

After the shooting at Woodward, Mitch Morris rushed to the scene. He works closely with Tait and runs Save Our Youth  Kings & Queens, a mentoring program for youth.

He has also spent decades responding to homicides and working with the surviving family and friends to prevent retaliatory violence.

Morris said the kids he encounters are often "chasing an illusion" of gang life as it is portrayed in music and movies.

"They think they want to be like that until they put their toes in," Morris said.

But he said he is hopeful because so many people throughout Cincinnati are working  more and more often together  to fight the problem. He said several members of the city council and the city manager all take the issue seriously.

"We've got the right people at the table."

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Could Avondale's action to end gun violence be model for Cincinnati?
(Elijah Vardo/For The Times)

In April 2022, I stood crying on the Hollywood Walk of Fame next to B.B. Kings star. Passersby gave me curious looks. Im OK, I said to no one in particular, rubbing my eyes with the heels of my hands. After the long lockdown, I was finally able to resume my annual tradition of visiting Los Angeles to mark my familys arrival in the United States. More than 30 years ago, my American story began in this very spot.

The place where I landed as a 15-year-old with my U.S.S.R. refugee parents is constantly changing. Still, whenever I have visited, the memories of my Californian teenagerhood swell with melancholy, transporting me back to 1989, to the city that inspired me to fearlessly embrace my multiethnic Romani identity.

Growing up, I hid my Romani, Ukrainian and Armenian roots to stay safe in Russia, where a conformist society spurned diversity, forcing its citizens to reject individuality. When we touched down in Los Angeles, I felt confused about my identity and assumed my parents did too. But I was surprised when they quickly welcomed their newfound liberation.

In May 1989, Dad and I made a memorable trip to begin his life as a free Roma, as he called it. When we stepped off the bus on Hollywood and Vine, he pointed down the street with, Finally here! It took him a week and a half to figure out the location of the star dedicated to his favorite musician, and he dressed up for the occasion. He wore leather pants, a green silk shirt and a black fedora  something hed never do publicly in Russia, where hed be harassed for dressing too ethnically. This was a pilgrimage to celebrate a hard-won victory over the Soviet oppression of minorities, though I didnt know it then.

I had accompanied him simply out of concern that he might need help communicating in English, but the foreign world around us didnt intimidate him. On the contrary, he marveled at the laid-back charms of Southern Cali, exclaiming appreciation for everything from Ripleys Believe It or Not! to the gift shops bursting with trinkets. Then we found B.B. Kings star, and he grew contemplative. He looked away and lighted a cigarette. When he turned back, his eyes sparkled with tears. Can you believe it? he said. Were here.

Story continues

Back in Russia, Dad told us stories about King, who was born on a plantation in Mississippi in 1925. Like Black Americans, European Romani people have fought for basic freedoms for centuries. They withstood subjugation when their society demanded they erase their cultural identity, finding ways to thrive. Kings success as a Black American and musician resonated with my father, who, as a professional musician and a Roma, yearned for that same autonomy for all Romani people.

Still, as a teen preoccupied with MTV and American fashion, I couldnt understand why he got so emotional standing on that busy sidewalk. I didnt grasp the significance of his outfit, that Kings star represented not only triumph over tyranny or the freedom to embrace his Romani roots. It represented belonging. Adults have a knack for shielding their kids from trauma even as their own wounds bleed.

However, as an adult, returning to Hollywood year after year on a pilgrimage of my own, I eventually understood.

In her essay Corpus Cartography, sociologist Emma Patchett defined diasporic identity as the disjunction between the dis/location of identity and the unstable territories of origins. My home country insisted that mixed ethnicity made me problematic, that being Romani, especially, was a tragic flaw. No ones ethnicity was as valuable as their Red Party affiliation. I grew up questioning my worth. Los Angeles showed me something different.

It taught me that diversity was a natural element of life, no matter how messy or inconvenient it felt to those who wished to suppress it.

My lessons on belonging started in the most unlikely places, such as our first American apartment building on Lexington Avenue, a gray-hued block with a courtyard pool. Apart from a retired American costume designer and his cuddly Pomeranian, the residents were immigrants like us. On the weekends, kids laughter reverberated around the building, followed by cannonball splashes into the pool. Aromas of coffee accompanied early morning conversations floating through the air: mostly Spanish, with a sprinkling of English or Armenian thrown into the mix. Id never heard so many languages spoken openly and without reservations.

Astonished, my family soaked in this new world where everyone was uniquely different, like us. And the music blasting from the windows was also of different genres and languages. We spent our first weeks in America listening to the most beautiful and unfamiliar melodies. Dad would sit by the window and learn the tunes by ear on his guitar. Soon, the lively mariachi music and the hypnotizing lilts of Armenian duduk had a new addition: my father playing our own Romani romancie (chanson) songs, such as the famous Dark Eyes. Music was how I knew we were home.

Acceptance is like air; formless, yet necessary for the soul to thrive. The stereotype of the carefree, roaming Gypsy (a pejorative term) has been around for centuries. Its perpetuated the dangerous idea that Romani people dont want to belong, and its denied us basic rights and made us invisible. But we have always been ordinary people whove shared the same dreams as everyone else.

Last year, as I stood on Hollywood Boulevard, shapes of wide-eyed tourists and stoic locals flowing in rivulets around me, time slowed. I took a deep, shaky breath, recalling the moments when my life unfurled with possibilities I couldve never imagined as a little Romani girl. But here I was, breathing out, in wonderment. Not an outcast, not alienated.

I belonged.

Oksana Marafioti is the author of American Gypsy: A Memoir. She is currently working on her second memoir about healing a multiethnic identity fragmented by cultural and intergenerational trauma. @oksanamarafioti

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
(Bloomberg) -- Indonesia is considering a tourism levy for visitors to Bali, adding another potential hurdle for holidaymakers after the island cracked down on traffic and visa breaches.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The tax would raise funds for conservation projects including mangrove and coral reef replanting to ensure visitors would have a positive impact on the local environment, Tourism Minister Sandiaga Uno said late Monday. Indonesia is looking to Thailands example as a guide, said Nia Niscaya, a deputy for strategic policy at the ministry.

The timing and magnitude of the tax is still under discussion, Uno added.

Dozens of tourists have been deported from Bali in the last few weeks as the government steps up law enforcement against foreigners who misuse their visas to work onshore, break traffic rules and violate religious sites.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
(Bloomberg) -- Bangladeshs garment factories, a key source of foreign exchange for the South Asian nation, face the heightened risk of fires as summer temperatures soar, an industry lobby group warned.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association, the main industry body in the worlds No. 2 exporter after China, issued 11 instructions to its 4,500 members over the weekend. These include powering off all machinery at night, including lights, fans, electric irons and boilers. Factories were asked to keep the entry and exits free for movement and ensure all gates and passages are open during working hours.

As garment factories use machinery and electric tools, there are risks of fire. Cautionary measures can avert disasters and save lives, the associations president Faruque Hassan said in a letter. The body also called for factory owners to establish security cameras on the premises to prevent any act of sabotage.

Fires engulfed thousands of shops at two markets in the capital Dhaka over the last two weeks. A severe heat wave, with temperatures touching 42 degrees Celsius (107.6 Fahrenheit), is sweeping parts of Bangladesh and is likely to continue, according to the Met Office.

Similar higher than usual summer temperatures are also forecast across many parts of neighboring India through June.

The garment industry contributes about 10% to Bangladeshs GDP and employs more than 4 million people. It also accounts for more than 80% of the countrys exports and supplies products to global chains, including H&M, Adidas, Wal-Mart Inc. and GAP.

The safety hazards faced by the countrys garment factory workers were laid bare when a commercial building called Rana Plaza collapsed in 2013 killing 1,133 workers and injuring thousands more. Since then Bangladesh has put in place new workplace safety regulations.

Story continues

However, most factories have minimal cooling in place for workers on the floor. Most are cooled by ceiling fans and air-conditioning is rare.

While Bangladesh has progressed significantly in fire and factory safety since the Rana Plaza disaster, the country is way behind in occupational health, said Babul Akhter, general secretary of the Bangladesh Garment and Industrial Workers Federation. Factories are not adequately equipped to keep indoor temperatures low on hot summer days.

The fire hazard warning comes as high commodity costs, stoked by Russias war in Ukraine, have increased Bangladeshs import bill and widened its trade deficit. This in turn has weakened the local currency and hurt its foreign exchange reserves.

The market fires prompted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to order an investigation into whether the main opposition group, Bangladesh Nationalist Party, and its Islamist ally were behind the incidents.

The BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir blamed the government and alleged it was using the incidents to divert peoples attention from Bangladeshs real problems, such as the soaring cost of living.

(updates with comments on workers safety)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
UPDATE: Can you find gas in Miami? Fuel crisis easing? What to know about supply after the flood

South Florida is in Day Six of a fuel crisis that  you arent going to want to hear this  may be fueled by our own making.

This is now a story of runaway panic-buying that is just unsustainable, said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy.

Its kind of like designing houses for a 1,000-year flood, so to speak. These are extremely rare. And now its kind of a self-fulfilling prophecy. Motorists have been encountering lines, theyve been getting panicked. They have no idea how to respond. And just like during the Colonial Pipeline [cyberattack] situation in 2021, and during hurricanes Harvey and Irma, back in 2017, motorists are now straining the system to the point that its going to be impossible for the system to work in the way it was designed, he said Tuesday in a phone interview with the Miami Herald.

Of course, it is not all panic buying. Some motorists waiting in line have empty tanks and need to replenish to get their children to school. Or to power their cabs, Ubers or delivery trucks.

Lines started forming by the weekend, a couple days after authorities said that the Fort Lauderdale storms and resulting floods on April 12 disrupted operations at Port Everglades.

KNOW MORE: Whats going on with gas in South Florida? Whats happening?

The Broward County facility is the hub for about 40% of the gasoline into Florida and serves 12 counties south of Lake Okeechobee, including Miami-Dade, Broward, the Keys and Palm Beach County.

By 11 a.m. Tuesday morning, with additional petroleum companies opening overnight Monday and Tuesday, the majority that handle gas  eight out of 11  are now operating, said Joy Oglesby, a spokeswoman for Port Everglades and Ellen Kennedy, the director of external affairs for the port. Miami International Airport and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport were not impacted because they get fuel by pipeline.

Story continues

Nearly a week gone by and Tuesday still saw red-tagged bags at South Florida stations or many simply closed. Lines spilled onto the right lanes of roadways, clogging traffic and burning motorists tempers.

State sends gas to alleviate problem

Over 500,000 gallons of fuel is making its way to South Florida to ease the fuel crunch. Orchestrated by the Florida Division of Emergency Management, the first set of trucks are expected to arrive at gas stations Tuesday night and the rest on Wednesday.

The fuel is coming from Port Canaveral and Tampa, which emergency management has been pulling from since Friday to help aid the flooded Port Everglades when torrential downpour hit.

Emergency management has also deployed over 20 industrial vacuum trucks, water pumps and other water mitigation assets to de-flood Broward.

Miami-Dade is also working with the state and federal governments to restore gas distribution, and helped with Tampa and Port Canaveral sending fuel, county Mayor Daniella Levine Cava said in a statement Tuesday.

With the improved weather, we expect distribution will continue to improve and anticipate no additional gas shortages, Levine Cava said.

The mayor urged residents to purchase gas only when they need it to allow local pumps to stabilize. She also reminded the community that price gouging is illegal under a state of emergency.

To report price gouging, contact MyFloridaLegal.com or 1-866-966-7226.

KNOW MORE: Dont rush to the pumps: Port Everglades has ample fuel supply after South Florida floods

Heres why gas is hard to find

A familiar site: a No gas! notation taped to a pump at a Shell gasoline station at 2501 NW 42nd Ave. in Miami.

Whats the problem? This is truly an exceptional event sparked by delays at Port Everglades due to submerged pumps from the flooding that created just enough delay that its been very difficult for trucks to pull product from Port Everglades, De Haan said. But that issue is mostly resolved.

Panic buying, he says, is overwhelming a system that simply cant be designed to meet the demand when everyones filling up multiple vehicles and multiple gas cans. Its become that type of situation. Fuel is flowing from other ports like Port Tampa. Trucks are coming down from Port Canaveral with fuel. Obviously, when were already amid a truck driver shortage, were talking about hours that trucks have to drive down [interstates] 75 and 95 to get that fuel to the market. Theres just no way that theres enough infrastructure and enough truck drivers to resupply Florida given the amount of pent-up demand that is now hurting us, De Haan said.

READ MORE: Picking up or returning a rental car in Miami? Here are tips to survive the gas crunch

Is there fuel in Florida? There is not a shortage in the traditional sense, De Haan said. There is fuel and theres plenty of fuel across Florida. There is a kink in the hose. The problem now is that theres not the capability to supply Florida with [200%] to 300% of its needs, which is now required because of the panic buying. So this is a problem that will sort itself out.

When will it sort itself out? Its really in the laps of motorists to be able to decide how long the situation will persist. Panic-buying overwhelming the system by filling up every vehicle and every gas can is obviously going to lead to a longer time of restoration, De Haan said.

Gas tankers line up at Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on Tuesday, April 18, 2023.

Can apps help motorists find fuel?

Maybe.

The GasBuddy app was primarily built to show motorists prices around them and a fuel tracker can update users on stations that have or dont have fuel based on supply changes.

This information is crowd-sourced and the situation is rapidly changing. One station may get resupply and that station could go through that supply in just a few hours time, De Haan said. In this type of instance, its hard for data to last more than an hour and be accurate because once people find a station that has fuel everyones going to that station and very quickly that stations all through with their supplies. So be patient.

Are you hearing of price gouging? This should not be a pricing event. Gas prices have been on the upswing but not as it relates to the outage, and the reason for that is because the production of gasoline is not being impacted by these outages. This is a delay at the local terminal. Its because of external factors like the transition to summer gasoline because the price of oil is moving up. It is not going to be due to this situation. So motorists may also be filling up anticipating that there could be a big price increase and thats not going to happen. So lets just remove that from the equation as a reason to fill up because there will not be a massive price increase, De Haan said.

The scene at neighborhood stations

Tuesday was still a bother.

About 70 cars  some spilling out onto adjoining streets  were waiting in lines at eight pumps at the BJs Wholesale gas station, 7050 Coral Way. Regular gas cost $3.31 per gallon. No premium gas was available.

Last night I went to 10 different stations and none had gas so I was getting worried. I am relieved to fill up my tank, which was on empty, said Jacqueline Sanchez, who waited 20 minutes in line to fill her Toyota Rav4.

Drivers put fuel in vehicles at the Mobil gas station at 18300 Collins Avenue in Sunny Isles Beach, Florida on Tuesday, April 18, 2023.

Felix Reimundo waited about 30 minutes to buy regular gas for $3.31 per gallon, about 50 cents per gallon cheaper than prices he had seen elsewhere.

Its worth the wait for the savings, said Reimundo, who is a BJs member.

Glem Alvaro, owner of Glems Exterminators, got in the line that led to pump No. 16, an unlucky number for him and the rest of the drivers in that line because the pump was running at drip-speed.

Its a very lazy pump and the attendant said they cant fix it, so this is taking me 45 minutes, said Alvaro, who filled his wifes car at another station on Monday for $3.59 per gallon. Im from Cuba and I call Cuba and they have plenty of gas and in Miami on a nice day they have a shortage of gas. Now, that is ironic, isnt it?

Alvaro said he goes through about $30 of gas per day in his job, which can require driving back and forth from Homestead to Pembroke Pines answering customers calls.

Twenty years ago it cost me $20 a week for gas, he said. I think I am going to set up a reserve tank at my house so the next time we have a storm that comes out of nowhere I will be prepared.

Ivon Acosta said she found the 15-minute wait at BJs not bad at all as she talked on her cellphone.

I love BJs, she said. Thats why Im a member. To save money.

The price of gas is displayed at the Chevron gas station located at US-1 & Old Griffin Rd in Dania Beach, Florida on Tuesday, April 18, 2023.

One downtown Miami attorney said she had to try three stations before 8 a.m. Tuesday before finding a fourth that could sell her gas. She wasnt panic-buying. She had less than a quarter-tank of fuel. She visited two stations on Southwest Third Street and one off I-95 and Southwest Eighth Street. All closed. At that station, an attendant gave the customer an address of a fourth gas station in the 2000 block of Southwest Third Avenue that she said had gas. The attendant there walked outside very startled as all these cars were lining up the customer said.

The scene near MIA

Travelers near Miami International Airport were trying to fill the tank of their rentals before catching their flights.

Martin Veit, 49, stopped at a Shell gas station just east of the airport to fill the tank of his rental SUV. The German tourist told the Herald he didnt expect a gas shortage at the pumps to be this bad. If he returns the rental without topping the tank, he may have to incur penalty fees. I dont have the time to look for a gas station, Veit said.

Regular gas at this station was priced at $4.99 for regular, Plus was $5.65 and V-Power was at $5.89. Gas prices fluctuate by neighborhood.

Saira Pinzon, 42, a Colombian tourist inside a mini van at the Shell, said she couldnt believe there was a gas shortage in an affluent country like the United States. She told a Herald reporter that she expects to see gas shortages in Latin American countries, but not in Florida. It is incredible that this is happening here, she said in Spanish.

Houston resident Marco Cucculelli, 59, said he had to fill his rentals tank before catching a flight. The Italian man said he needed plenty of gas to not pay penalties, and opined that the shortage at the pumps could be, in part, a result of people panic buying more gas than what they needed. People in America do this all the time, he said. Something happens, and they go and buy all the toilet paper.

What Port Everglades says

Petroleum storage tanks at Port Everglades n Fort Lauderdale, Florida on Tuesday, April 18, 2023.

The docks are open. The ships have been coming in. They were closed for the few hours of the storm. The roadways cleared fairly quickly and the trucks started coming in continuously 24/7. But it takes a while to catch up, Kennedy said.

Gas was brought in from Port Canaveral, Tampa and Orlando when floods briefly hampered Port Everglades operations.

The latest information is that things are slowly getting back to normal after flooding interrupted operations at gasoline terminals located in Port Everglades, said AAA spokesman Mark Jenkins in an email interview with the Herald Tuesday.

This port supplies gasoline for 2,800 gas stations throughout Fort Lauderdale, Miami and Palm Beach. Those terminals resumed operations over the weekend and gasoline is being loaded and transported to gas stations. At worst, there were 300 gas stations without fuel. Now there are around 50. Im told it could take another week before things fully stabilize and there are no noticeable issues, Jenkins said.

Advice?

The best advice is to watch your fuel gauge. Dont let it get too low before looking for a place to refuel. Again, things are improving. Theres enough fuel, it just takes time to get it to the stations, Jenkins said.

Although topping off a half-full tank can also contribute to long lines.

How long before things return to normal? A week is likely a conservative estimate from the Florida Petroleum and Marketers Association. That is again how long itd take before you dont notice any outages, but conditions are improving by the day, Jenkins said.

Moderation matters. Theres going to be a difference if everyone were able to not go out and fill up with two weeks worth of gasoline in one sitting, De Haan added. If everyone could simply buy two to three gallons or what they need for the next 24 to 48 hours this is a problem that probably would be over in days.

Of course, that is not what many motorists are inclined to do after waiting in line for extended time.

As it stands now, with motorists all filling up every tank and crevice that they have, this is a problem that could be turned into a few weeks. Motorists are really the wildcard here. How people respond. As it stands now, I think were talking about at least a multiple week full restoration to where getting gasoline is no longer a headache, De Haan said.

This story was updated to add comments by Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava.

Miami Herald staff writers Grethel Aguila and Devoun Cetoute also contributed to this report.
BRUSSELS (Reuters) - Belgium submitted a request to Iran on Tuesday that jailed aid worker Olivier Vandecasteele be sent back to his country, which has agreed a prisoner transfer treaty with Iran.

Belgian Vandecasteele was arrested on a visit to Iran in February 2022 and sentenced in January to 40 years in prison and 74 lashes on charges including spying.

Belgium's justice minister has said he was convicted "for a fabricated series of crimes" and in retribution for a 20-year jail term given to an Iranian diplomat in 2021 over a foiled bomb plot.

Iran has said it is open to a prisoner swap, indicating it would seek the return of the diplomat Assadollah Assadi, the first Iranian official to face trial for suspected terrorism in Europe since Iran's 1979 revolution.

The prisoner transfer treaty has been held up by legal challenges brought by the exiled National Council of Resistance to Iran, whose rally near Paris was the target of the foiled bomb plot.

A foreign ministry spokesperson did not reply when asked if the Belgian transfer request was seen as leading to a prisoner exchange.

(Reporting by Marine Strauss; editing by Philip Blenkinsop and Barbara Lewis)
A Bellingham man was arrested Monday after police say he electronically sent a 15-year-old Mississippi girl sexually explicit messages and photos of himself with the knowledge that the victim was underage.

Daniel Glen Koval, 44, was arrested on suspicion of communicating with a minor for immoral purposes, sexual exploitation of a minor and possession of depictions of a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct.

Police in Mississippi opened an investigation in April 2022 when the parents of the victim became aware that adult men were electronically communicating with their daughter, according to Bellingham Police Lt. Claudia Murphy.

Mississippi investigators identified Koval, who was living in Bellingham, as a possible suspect by comparing photographs and his Washington Department of Licensing photo, Murphy told The Bellingham Herald.

The investigation was transferred to Bellingham Police in August 2022 and the department had sufficient evidence to serve a search warrant for Kovals residence in October 2022. Police seized several electronic and computer items, according to Murphy.

A forensic examination of the electronics found 17 images that depicted the sexual exploitation of children, not including the victim. The examination also found an explicit photo that Koval electronically sent to the victim during one of their conversations, Murphy told The Herald.

Koval turned himself in to the police at a pre-arranged time on April 17 outside the Whatcom County Jail. Online jail record show he is out of custody after making bond, which was set at $25,000 or $2,500 cash.
Bellingham Cold Storage, a storage and food processing company in Bellingham is expanding its reach into Skagit County by opening new cold and dry storage facilities in Burlington.

Bellingham Cold Storage first opened its Squalicum Waterfront facility in 1946 and will now have expanded to 27 facilities throughout Whatcom, Skagit and Snohomish counties with about 150 total employees.

Bellingham Cold Storage is the largest and most diversified portside cold storage and food processing company on the West Coast, according to a news release from Jose M Roques, the companys senior vice president of sales and marketing.

The two new storage units will open in Burlington on June 1.

The cold storage facility will include a 69,000-square-foot cold storage warehouse and a 7,000-square-foot loading dock and is at 301 S. Walnut St. in Burlington. The dry storage facility will include 65,000 square feet of dry storage and is at 1600 Port Drive in Burlington.

Experienced and dedicated BCS team members located in each of our 5 separate locations will remain fully committed to delivering the highest quality standards, and customer satisfaction possible in todays very challenging supply chain world. We look forward to continuing to serve our current and future customers with excellence and integrity, Doug Thomas, president and CEO of Bellingham Cold Storage, wrote in the news release.

The company manages over 600 million pounds of products each year such as seafood, berries and other packaged foods, according to its website.
You are here: Business

Visitors look at a BYD Dolphin during the 44th Bangkok International Motor Show in Bangkok, Thailand, March 22, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]



China's automobile exports registered strong expansion in the first quarter (Q1) of this year, industry data shows.

A total of 994,000 vehicles were exported in this period, soaring 70.6 percent from a year ago, according to the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers.

In breakdown, passenger vehicle exports jumped 82.9 percent year on year to 826,000 units, while exports of commercial vehicles climbed 28.1 percent from a year ago to 168,000 units.

In the January-March period, exports of new-energy vehicles more than doubled to 248,000 units, the data also reveals.
BURLINGTON, Vt. (AP)  About 40 workers at the Ben & Jerrys ice cream shop in the Vermont city where the company was founded announced Monday that they plan to form a union.

Collectively, we have come to embody Ben and Jerrys slogan of peace, love, and ice cream,' they said they wrote to management.

The so-called scoopers at the Burlington, Vt., shop said they have formed an organizing committee and petitioned the National Labor Relations Board for an election. They said they have the support of the upstate New York & Vermont chapter of Workers United, the union that started the Starbucks unionization campaign in Buffalo, New York.

FILE  Two patrons enter a Ben & Jerrys Ice Cream shop, Tuesday, July 20, 2021, in Burlington, Vt. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa, File)

I think of this union as a sign of respect for Ben & Jerrys, said Rebeka Mendelsohn, a shift manager and catering lead, in a statement. Were a company that stands for social justice rights and equity, and I want to ensure that this message is translated to all levels of employment.

Ben & Jerrys, now owned by consumer goods giant Unilever, said organizers just presented the plan to the company Sunday night.

Its an important issue to us, were aware of it, and were actively working on it, Ben & Jerrys spokesman Sean Greenwood wrote in an email.

The shop employees letter to management says they want a voice in key decisions over issues such as salaries and health care costs.

We are taught from the beginning of our employment that equality and justice are integral rights of ours as people. But what happens when Vermonts Finest are continuously left out of these conversations?

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A Ben & Jerry's ice cream shop in Palm Springs, California. Workers at the company's flagship store in Vermont filed to vote on forming a union. Robert Alexander/Getty Images

Employees at a Ben & Jerry's shop in Vermont are seeking to form a union.

If the effort is successful the union would be the company's first at a store.

Unionization efforts have taken hold at retailers from Starbucks to REI in recent years.

Ben & Jerry's flagship store in Vermont has become the latest retail shop to move towards unionizing.

Workers at the store in Burlington, Vermont, have asked the ice cream brand to recognize their right to unionize, the Washington Post first reported on Monday. It's the first step that employees at the store have taken toward unionizing.

"When will the activism and social mission our company empower come to reflect its own scoopers, the ones who work every day to keep their lines moooving?" the organizing committee behind the union wrote in a letter to the company's management on Monday.

"Despite record-breaking profits, incredible bounce-backs post-pandemic, and unwavering smiles, our staff is exploited within our work environment," the committee added. Workers at the store call their organization "Scoopers United."

A Ben & Jerry's spokeswoman told Insider that "we recognize and support the rights of all workers to unionize and collectively bargain."

"Ben & Jerry's is committed to the goal of operating our company in a way that is fair, inclusive, and equitable, while being a dynamic and fun place for all workers," the spokeswoman said. "We welcome the steps taken by the workers at our company-owned Scoop Shop in our hometown of Burlington, VT."

Under federal law, employees can ask their employer to recognize their union voluntarily. If the employer declines, workers can hold an election to formalize their union.

Ben & Jerry's workers told the Washington Post that they decided to pursue a union after management took away the store's tip jar for the company's annual Free Cone Day. Workers said the jar was later returned, but its removal left them without tips on one of the store's busiest days.

Story continues

All 37 scoopers at the Burlington store have pledged support for the union, according to Scoopers United. The group plans to tackle issues including drug use among store patrons, according to the Post.

The union effort is the latest test for Ben & Jerry's, which has cast itself as a socially conscious brand for decades.

In 2021, the company said that it would halt sales of its ice cream in Palestinian territory occupied by Israel. That decision prompted a legal dispute between Unilever, which acquired Ben & Jerry's in 2000, and the ice cream brand's board, which had pressed the company to take positions on social and political issues for years.

The dispute was resolved in late 2022, and the details are still unclear, Bloomberg reported in February.

Employees at other retail chains, including stores that are regarded as progressive, have also been unionizing. Employees at Starbucks stores have unionized since late 2021. Workers United said that 300 Starbucks stores had unionized since then. Workers also unionized last year at an Amazon warehouse in New York. Workers at Trader Joe's and REI have also chosen to unionize.

Read the original article on Business Insider
A federal appeals court has tossed out Berkeley, Californias pioneering legislation to ban fossil gas hookups in new buildings. But the ruling, which came Monday, isnt expected to affect most other policies adopted by U.S. cities and states to limit gas consumption in new homes, offices and commercial buildings, experts say.

Thats mainly because the ruling applies to the specific way Berkeley structured its gas-hookup ban  by using its authority to regulate residents health and safety. More than 100 municipalities across the country have passed policies to curb planet-warming emissions from buildings, though only about 25 cities in California have followed Berkeleys approach, according to the Building Decarbonization Coalition.



Local governments are still allowed to require or strongly incentivize all-electric construction in their building codes, so long as they do it in a particular way, Amy Turner, a senior fellow at Columbia Universitys Sabin Center for Climate Change Law, told Canary Media.



Mondays ruling by a panel of three judges on the Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals may nonetheless embolden opponents of local gas bans and sow uncertainty among proponents.



The decision arrives at a time when gas appliances have become a political lightning rod and sparked fierce debate about the role governments should play in pushing households and businesses toward less-polluting equipment. At least 20 states with Republican-controlled legislatures have adopted preemption laws that prohibit cities from banning fossil gas.



In 2019, Berkeley became the first city in the United States to adopt a gas ban. The city council, which represents some 124,000 residents, approved a municipal code amendment that prohibits gas interconnections in newly constructed buildings, with some exceptions. The ordinance is codified in the Berkeley Municipal Code under Title 12, which sets rules for health and safety.



According to the council, the ordinance is reasonably necessary because of health and safety concerns, as Berkeley residents suffer from asthma and other health conditions associated with poor indoor and outdoor air quality exacerbated by the combustion of natural gas. Gas use also threatens residents safety by generating greenhouse gas emissions, which in turn raises the risk of rising sea levels, wildfires and firestorms, council members said.



Story continues

Dozens of U.S. cities and counties have since adopted their own policies, including San Francisco, Washington, D.C., and New York City. Most recently, air pollution regulators in the San Francisco Bay Area agreed to phase out gas-fueled furnaces and water heaters starting in 2027. Washington states building codes now require all new-home construction to install heat pumps for space and water heating as of this July.



In contrast with Berkeleys approach, most of these so-called gas bans are written into local building codes or air emissions standards.



My hope is that states and local governments realize that this is a fairly limited ruling, and that they still have ample authority to regulate natural gas use and to regulate all-electric construction, Turner said.

She noted that the ruling also only applies to the states within the Ninth Circuits jurisdiction: California, Alaska, Arizona, Hawaii, Idaho, Nebraska, Nevada, Oregon and Washington, plus Guam and the Mariana Islands.



In their decision, the judges found that the federal Energy Policy and Conservation Act preempts, or displaces, Berkeleys municipal code amendment. The federal law was enacted in 1975 to boost domestic energy production and improve energy efficiency. In a 2019 lawsuit, the California Restaurant Association (CRA) argued that the Berkeley ordinance clashes with the act because it undermines the federal governments ability to set energy conservation standards for consumer appliances and equipment.



Cities and states cannot ignore federal law in an effort to constrain consumer choice, Jot Condie, the CRAs president and CEO, said on Monday, adding that gas appliances are crucial for restaurants to operate effectively and efficiently.



Rob Rains, a senior vice president at Washington Analysis, an independent research firm, noted that the ruling may have ripple effects across the nation despite its limited applicability.



Similar suits challenging restrictions in other Ninth Circuit localities, including Washington state and Eugene, Oregon, seem a near certainty, Rains wrote in a Monday analysis. The ruling may also provide a playbook for attacking policies outside the courts jurisdiction, including potentially on the East Coast. In New York, Gov. Kathy Hochul and the state Senate and Assembly have all proposed ending fossil fuel use in new construction  though efforts to pass such a policy are stuck in long-delayed budget negotiations.



If Berkeley officials appeal the Ninth Circuits ruling, the case could eventually make its way to the conservative Supreme Court, though many procedural steps would need to happen first. If they do go that route, it would lead to at least a year of uncertainty, Rains wrote.

Matt Vespa, a senior attorney at the environmental group Earthjustice, called the courts decision misguided but said there are still ample pathways to upgrade new buildings to clean energy technologies.



As we face a climate and air quality crisis from coast to coast, it is vital that cities and states maintain all legal pathways to protect public health, cut climate emissions, and increase safety by addressing pollution from buildings, he said in a statement.


lush greenery in Bali - one of the best places to visit in April

Springtime is official here! As the weather begins to warm up and spring blossoms bloom, April is the perfect time to pack your bags and escape to a new destination. If youre looking for a trip abroad, April is the perfect time to jet set off, before the summer crowds arrive.

Whether youre looking for adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, there are plenty of incredible places to visit in April. From quick weekend trips to more extended getaways, this destination below will not disappoint.

Here are some of the best places to travel to in April.

Japan

Photo Credit: Regina Farrell | Black Expat Japan

April is the perfect month to visit Japan, during its cherry blossom season. Cherry blossom season in Japan is from around March to the end of April. Still, given the geographical scope of the country, the blooming period can last around four months.

The blooming pink cherry blossoms are a beautiful sight, and the country celebrates the occasion with festivals and events throughout the month.

Morocco

Photo Credit: Kyriacos Georgiou

April is an epic time to visit Morocco, as the weather is warm but not too hot. You can explore the bustling markets of Marrakech, hike in the Atlas Mountains, or relax on the beaches of Essaouira.

Moroccos top places to visit include Marakch, Fex, and the blue city.

Italy

Photo Credit: Lara Sophie

Italy is always a great place to visit, but April is extraordinary because its when the country celebrates Easter. The celebration is full of parades and gatherings.

In addition, you can attend religious processions and festivals, try traditional Easter dishes, and enjoy the beautiful spring weather.

Greece

Photo Credit: Getty Images

In April, the weather in Greece is warm but not too hot, and the crowds are smaller than in the summer. You can see all your favorite Instagram-worthy spots without the heavy lines and crowds.

You can also explore the ancient ruins of Athens, relax on the beaches of Santorini, or party on the island of Mykonos.

Bali

Photo Credit: Chidi Ashley

April is a great time to visit Bali, with the end of the rainy season when the weather is warm and dry. You can explore the islands beautiful temples, relax on the beaches, or participate in yoga retreats and other wellness activities.

Story continues

Bali is also a digital nomad hub, so dont worry about extending your trip if you have to work a bit.

Mexico City

Photo Credit: Getty Images

Mexico City is a vibrant city full of life and culture. Visitors can explore its history by visiting museums like The National Museum of Anthropology or Chapultepec Castle, which was once home to Emperor Maximilian I during his reign over Mexico.

Mexico City also has many restaurants serving delicious Mexican food, bars, and nightclubs where visitors can party hard into the night.

South Africa

Photo Credit: John Nolan

If you want to see wild animals in their natural habitat, then South Africa is the place for you. An African safari tour will take you through the Kruger National Park, where you can see lions, elephants, rhinos, and many other animals roaming freely on the plains of Africa.

This tour has become extremely popular with tourists wanting to get up close and personal with these majestic creatures.

Hawaii

alaska-airlines-hawaii

Hawaii is one of the most popular destinations for travelers worldwide. The weather is pleasant, and there are many activities on this island paradise. Hawaii is beautiful all year round.

When traveling to Hawaii, make sure to respect the local culture and traditions and take care of the land.

RELATED: 8 Destinations That Are Perfect For Spring Break
Travel is already stressful; heres our advice if youre looking for cheap flights or a vacation that wont break the bank.

Whether youre looking to visit relatives, trying to unwind, searching for memories to make with your family or simply wanting to spice things up, travel is always appealing but can be dauntingly expensive. Here are a few tips for finding cheap flights, planning where and when to travel and how to make the most of your trip on a budget.

Choosing a travel destination

If youre not going to see family or dont already have a destination picked out, you can save money by researching what vacation spots are cheapest from your home city. Websites like Skyscanner, for example, are specifically built to search for cheap flights to wherever you want to go. You can also sleuth around on sites like Google Flights if youre still window shopping for vacation spots.

You might have to do a little research to find cheap flights. (Image courtesy of Fotolia)

Cheap flights for international travel

Depending on where you are in the United States, you might be able to find cheap flights to other continents and countries. A quick trip to Canada or Mexico if you live close to the U.S. border, for example, might be more doable than you think! But even longer journeys can be affordable if you put in the legwork.

If you live on the West Coast, for example, Going.com suggests visiting places like Tahiti, with cheap flights available for less than $500 round trip. You can also find cheap flights to Japan from the West Coast, or you might check out Laos, which is connected to every country in Southeast Asia, including China, by rail.

If youre on the East Coast and looking for cheap flights to Europe, youre in luck. New York City in particular is a hub for flights to Europe, though you can also leave from Washington, D.C., Miami, or other busy airports. If you cant find a cheap flight to the specific European city youre looking to visit, try searching for cheap flights to nearby cities and taking the train.

Travelers walk through terminal A at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on April 20, 2020, in Atlanta. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)

Of course, we cant recommend traveling to Africa enough. You might try traveling to Ghana and visiting the Cape Coast or to Tanzania for snorkeling. You could also check out one of South Africas amazing food markets. If Africa is on your bucket list, try taking advantage of cheap flights to Europe to make a connection there and continue on to Africa.

Story continues

Wherever you go, if youre OK with a long travel time, its always a good idea to shop around for options that include layovers. You might end up spending a few hours in busy hubs like New York or Paris while you wait for your next flight, but sometimes, sacrificing a speedy trip for a cheap flight to your preferred destination is worth it.

Cheap flights for domestic travel

If you dont have a destination in mind, you can always shop around within the United States. Since only about 30% of Americans have a passport, youll be in good company. You could visit any of the national parks throughout the country, including Patersons Great Falls. Or you could go sight-seeing in New York or Washington, D.C.

As long as you dont mind city-hopping, you can almost certainly get where you want to go with some one-way flights or with the occasional layover. You can also try searching for flights from airports close to your destination, so long as the added expense of a taxi or train doesnt negate the savings from picking a different airport.

And if you cant find cheap flights at a convenient time for you, a road trip can also be a fun choice. You wont have to pay any baggage fees or worry about the size of your suitcase, but you will be traveling for longer periods of time than if youd flown. Still, if the price of gas and the price of hotels ends up being cheaper than the flights you can find, it might be worth it to take the long, scenic route.

Passengers carry suitcases at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) on July 1, 2021, in Schoenefeld, Germany. (Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images)

Choosing when to travel

If youve already got a destination in mind, you can find cheap flights by choosing your time instead of the place youre visiting. If youre not traveling for an emergency, see if you can go outside of peak travel times; the cheapest flights are usually during the spring or early fall.

Obviously, if you have school-aged children, youll have to schedule your trips around their school schedule. That means taking advantage of summer deals, if you can find them, and playing with different dates. Try not to travel on weekends; the cheap flights are usually in the middle of the week.

What to do if you cant avoid traveling at peak times

Sometimes, you just cant avoid traveling when everyone else is traveling. Maybe you need to see Grandma for Christmas, or maybe the Fourth of July weekend was the only time everyone in the family could get together for a reunion. Whatever the case, you can still find cheap flights if you know how to bargain hunt.

Use whatever flexibility you can find in your schedule. If you find a cheap flight that leaves late at night, you might be able to make that work, depending on whether you have young kids with you or other considerations that might make a red eye flight harder than the worth of the savings. If you cant manage a flight at an odd time, try to fly during the week. You might even see if you can take a few days off ahead of a big travel week to get to your destination outside of peak travel times; alternatively, you might find a cheap flight if you stay a little longer past the holidays.

If you have the time, try to buy your tickets between one and three months ahead of when you plan to leave. For international tickets, add on a few months. Keep an eye on travel sites or set a search alert for low fares during that window; that way, you wont miss good deals.

Plan ahead for your travel on a budget

We all know that finding a cheap flight isnt the only hard part of traveling on a budget. You also need to price in the cost of food and a place to stay. Thankfully, plenty of travel sites offer hotel and car rental bundles if you book a flight with them. Make sure you look at several different options when youre looking ahead, and dont be afraid to book separately if the bundles arent as good as other deals youve found.

Budgeting can be hard work, but if you can find cheap flights, travel at good times and keep expenses low, you can still travel! (Photo credit: Adobe Stock Images)

Unexpected expenses

Dont fall for cheap flights or hotels that hit you with a ton of fees after youve already booked. Make sure you research your airline or hotel so you can be sure youre not going to be hit with unexpected baggage fees and other hidden expenses. If youre looking into a travel group, make sure you do your research about them, too.

Enjoy yourself!

Now that youve planned ahead and set your budget, relax! Dont be afraid to practice some self-care, take a break from the stress of life, and see the world.

The post Our best tips for finding cheap flights and traveling on a budget appeared first on TheGrio.
President Joe Biden on Monday called Ralph Yarl, a Black 16-year-old who was shot in Kansas City, Mo., after ringing the wrong doorbell, the White House confirmed Monday night.

Yarl was shot twice Thursday night after he approached the wrong house while picking up his siblings, an incident that Prosecuting Attorney Zachary Thompson described Monday as having a racial component.

On Monday, Andrew Lester, an 84-year-old white man, was charged with first-degree assault. Lester, who told police that he thought the person at his front door was trying to break into his house, was also charged with armed criminal action.

Yarl was released from the hospital Sunday and has since been recovering at home.

The White House said Biden shared his hope for a swift recovery.

Attorneys for Yarls family, Ben Crump and Lee Merritt, said Biden called Yarl and his family shortly before they learned of the charges being brought against Lester. The president offered his prayers for Ralphs health and for justice, they said in a statement Monday evening.

Gun violence against unarmed Black individuals must stop, the lawyers said. Our children should feel safe, not as though they are being hunted. While this is certainly a step in the right direction, we will continue to fight for Ralph while he works toward a full recovery.

Vice President Kamala Harris voiced outrage over the shooting.

Doug and I are praying for Ralph Yarl and his family as he fights for his life, Harris wrote on Twitter on Monday. Lets be clear: No child should ever live in fear of being shot for ringing the wrong doorbell. Every child deserves to be safe. Thats the America we are fighting for.

Material from the Associated Press was used in this report.
During a call with the 16-year-old Missouri shooting victim on Monday night, President Joe Biden wished Yarl a speedy recovery.

President Joe Biden invited 16-year-old Ralph Yarl to the White House while speaking to the teen and his family on Monday evening. The familys attorney Lee Merritt told theGrio, He looks forward to meeting the family.

Yarl made national headlines after being shot last week in the head by a white homeowner in Kansas City, Missouri when the teen rang the doorbell of the wrong home to pick up his younger siblings.

President Joe Biden invited 16-year-old Ralph Yarl to the White House while speaking to the teen and his family on Monday. (Photo: Getty Images/AP)

Yarl is on the mend after being released over the weekend. Merritt said it is a miracle that the teen is alive as he was shot at point-blank range, and it was lodged in his brain. The attorney said the teen underwent a delicate operation as doctors did scrape bullet fragments off of his frontal lobe

Merritt, who is representing Yarl and his family, recalled the conversation President Biden had with Yarl, his mother, and his aunt  both of whom are healthcare workers; a nurse and a physical therapist.

According to the civil rights attorney, Biden said, He and the rest of the nation are looking for a speedy recovery.

A White House official shared with theGrio that during his call with Yarl and his family, President Biden acknowledged how fortunate the teen was to have a family in the healthcare industry as they help him on his road to recovery.

Biden also attempted to connect with the high school student who plays in a marching band. The president shared that his father once played an instrument and that his wife, first lady Dr. Jill Biden, has healthcare workers in her family.

The president also discussed Yarls academic success in the classroom and his desire to attend Texas A&M University. Biden jokingly told the teen that the University of Delaware  in the presidents home state  would be a better option.

On a more serious note, the president expressed his commitment to tackling the issue of gun violence in the United States.

Story continues

This booking photo provided by the Kansas City Police Department shows Andrew Lester on Thursday, April 13, 2023. Lester, who shot a Black teen that approached the wrong house in Kansas City, Mo., last week while trying to pick up his younger brothers, has been charged with first-degree assault, the Clay County prosecutor said Monday, April 17. (Kansas City Police Department via AP)

President Bidens call with the Yarl family happened the same day that 84-year-old suspect Andrew Lester was charged with assault in the first degree and armed criminal action. Both are felony charges.

If Lester is convicted, he could face life in prison. The octogenarian reportedly shot the teen through a glass door with a .32 -caliber handgun. Lester told authorities he fired the shots because he was scared.

Merritt said he thinks Lester has already been given preferential treatment for not being arrested the night Yarl was shot. The family will meet with prosecutors on Tuesday about the near-fatal assault case.

The attorney told theGrio the family is prepared to question prosecutors about why Lester was not charged with attempted murder.

TheGrio is FREE on your TV via Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku, and Android TV. Please download theGrio mobile apps today!

The post Biden invites Ralph Yarl, Black teen shot by white homeowner, to the White House appeared first on TheGrio.
President Joe Biden spoke at length with the Kansas City teenager who was shot after he rang the wrong doorbell while trying to pick up his younger siblings.

Biden called 16-year-old Ralph Yarl and his mother on Monday evening to discuss Yarls recovery and studies.

They spoke at length regarding Ralphs recovery, and Ralph reminded the President that his mom Cleo Nagbe, who also joined the call, was not only a nurse but also a physical therapist, a White House official said. They discussed how fortunate Ralph was for that.

After ringing the homeowners doorbell, Yarl was shot in the head and then in the upper right arm after hitting the ground.

Ralph Yarl. (via Ben Crump Law)

Yarl hopes to attend Texas A&M to major in chemical engineering, and Biden lightheartedly attempted to convince him that University of Delaware was a much better option as they discussed his success in the classroom, the official said.

Biden and Yarl also discussed their families history and love of music.

The president stressed his commitment to tackling gun violence in the United States on the call.

Yarl left the hospital Monday. Family attorney Lee Merritt said Yarls mother had asked him to pick up his 11-year-old twin brothers last Thursday. He went to a home in the 1100 block of Northeast 115th Street instead of Northeast 115th Terrace in Kansas City, Missouri, police said.

A white man in his 80s, Andrew Lester, has been charged with two felony crimes in the April 13 shooting: assault in the first degree and armed criminal action.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden paid $137,658 in federal income taxes on $579,514 in earnings, according to their 2022 tax return provided Tuesday by the White House.

The Bidens effective tax rate was 23.8 percent. They reported donating $20,180 to 20 different charities  the largest gift was $5,000 to the Beau Biden Foundation, an organization that protects children from abuse and named for their late son. They gave the same amount to the charity last year.

The couple owed $4,632 to the IRS.

The numbers closely mirrored those from last year, when the Bidens reported paying $150,439 in federal income taxes on $610,702 for an effective tax rate of 24.6 percent.

White House officials again released copies of the first familys tax returns on Tax Day as a demonstration of transparency. Former President Donald Trump had refused to do so while in office and during the 2016 presidential campaign, claiming repeatedly that he was under government audit. With the release of their 2022 taxes, Biden has shared 25 years worth of tax returns that include his years as vice president and an earlier presidential run, according to the White House.

Much of the couples income was via the presidents $400,000 salary. Jill Biden was paid $82,335 for her teaching position at Northern Virginia Community College.

The Bidens, who filed their returns jointly, also reported paying $29,023 in state income tax in Delaware, where they have two homes. The first lady reported paying $3,139 in Virginia income tax.

The Bidens hit the $10,000 cap on state and local tax deductions, called SALT, a product of Trumps tax law and derided by Democrats in high-cost states. They also paid more than $2,000 in additional federal taxes imposed by the Affordable Care Act.

Other charitable donations include $4,000 to Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors; $2,000 to the Fraternal Order of Police Foundation; $1,680 to St. Joseph on the Brandywine (the Bidens home parish); $1,125 to Westminster Presbyterian Church; $1,000 each to Cranston Heights Fire Company and Ministry of Caring.

Story continues

Vice President Kamala Harris and her husband, second gentleman Doug Emhoff, paid $93,570 in federal income taxes last year, with an effective tax rate of 20.5 percent.

Their combined federal earnings were $456,918, including Harris vice presidential salary and a reported $169,665 from Georgetown University, where Emhoff, an intellectual property and business lawyer, joined the Law Centers teaching ranks in January 2021.

The couple paid $17,612 in California income taxes, and Emhoff paid $9,697 in District of Columbia income tax.

The couple contributed $23,000 to charity during the year. They owed $611 to the IRS.

The income figures for Harris and Emhoff were far below what they reported in prior years when Emhoff was still practicing law. When Harris campaigned for president in 2019, they released 15 years of tax returns, including earning about $2 million in 2018.
The Wichita City Council has allocated $6.15 million for a state-of-the-art pickleball complex at South Lakes Park, paving the way for completion by February 2024.

The 24-court facility, which will cost more than twice what was initially approved in 2021, was approved 7-0 after Bryan Fryes motion to delay a vote until June failed.

USA Pickleball is hugely excited about this, Parks Director Troy Houtman said.

They really want to use this site as a showcase.

Houtman told the council he misspoke at last weeks agenda review meeting when he said the city hadnt analyzed revenue projections for the pickleball palace. He said the consultant estimated that a 12-court facility  half the size of what was just greenlit  would generate $205,800 annually.

With 24 courts, it would definitely double that, Houtman said, referring to the earlier projection. He later reiterated that hes confident the facility will be profitable.

We have so many needs in Wichita that I hear when I go to neighborhood groups that I really think, to taxpayers  Im just being honest  this looks frivolous and this looks unstudied and unprepared for the expansion, Celeste Racette, Save Century II founder, said during public comments.

The higher price point is due in part to increased materials and construction costs.

Mayor Brandon Whipple, who is running for re-election against both Frye and Racette, bristled at the insinuation that additional spending on the project is an irresponsible use of public funds.

Frankly, we dont do enough investment in south Wichita, and when we do, its heavily criticized by onlookers, Whipple said.

Patti Mackey, a Wichita ambassador with the USA Pickleball Association, applauded the council for supporting the project.

I heard one of you guys say Go big or go home, and thats really the deal, Mackey said. Youve got to have a large facility that is going to bring in all of that large talent.

You cant have six courts, twelve courts. Youve got to have twenty, twenty-four courts if youre going to bring them in and get return on your money.

Story continues

Houtman said the city has calculated that people who come from out of town for tournaments spend an average of $120 a day and that a two-day tournament generates roughly $48,000 in economic impact. He said he expects the South Lakes complex to host four to five major tournaments a year.

Public court rentals will be similar in cost to the $4-$8 per hour at Riverside Parks pickleball facilities.

The expanded plan, which includes lighting for half of the courts, a clubhouse and family bathrooms and changing rooms, has already been approved by the park board and design commission.

The $6.15 million plan does not include funding for a potential future phase that would include indoor courts.
Wang Huning, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, delivers a speech while attending a united front seminar in Beijing, capital of China, April 17, 2023. The seminar opened here on Monday. [Photo/Xinhua]

A senior official of the Communist Party of China (CPC) has called on the united front to pool great strength for advancing Chinese modernization.

Wang Huning, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, made the remarks at a united front seminar that opened on Monday.

Wang said the united front should effectively play its role in rallying the people's support and pooling their strength to build a modern socialist country in all respects.

Members of the united front should improve their capacity for political judgment, thinking and implementation, Wang said, urging efforts to ensure the Party's ongoing education campaign is organized well and carried out within the united front system.

The united front should shoulder its due responsibility and mission of ensuring great unity and solidarity in the advancement of Chinese modernization, and thoroughly implement the tasks and plans laid out at the 20th CPC National Congress for the united front work, Wang added.

Shi Taifeng, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and head of the United Front Work Department of the CPC Central Committee, presided over the opening of the seminar.
A crowd is expected at City Hall Tuesday to talk about spring break and how to stop the violence that happened over the weekend in Biloxi.

The meeting begins at 1:30 p.m. at City Hall on Lameuse Street.

Black Spring Break drew tens of thousands of people to hang out on the beach and attend big-name concerts and other events, primarily in the few blocks between Edgewater Mall and the Coast Coliseum.

When thunderstorms canceled the outdoor events Saturday afternoon and evening, the crowds stayed later than expected Sunday afternoon, said Councilman Kenny Glavan.

That is when five people, including a Biloxi police officer, were shot near Surf Style on Highway 90, with no arrests made yet. Another person was killed in a shooting in the same neighborhood Saturday. A Louisiana man was charged with manslaughter in that case

Glavan said the city has a year to make sure the violence doesnt happen again.

Its just escalated to a point of no return, Glavan said. Not doing anything isnt an option, he said.

Biloxi Police responded to 669 spring break calls for service, the city released Monday, in addition to the overall 2,160 calls for service last week. There were more than 60 vehicles towed and 40 arrests, including 19 felonies.

The offenses ranged from traffic, drug, and firearm violations, to drunkenness, permit violations, officer assaults and shootings, the city said in a press release.

Glavan said he expects the council to schedule a workshop and look at best practices from other cities that successfully put restrictions in place.

Some of these solutions could extend to other large events in the city, he said, adding that the decision to talk about new rules has nothing to do with race.

I think it is a community safety issue, he said.

Theyve taken it away from the kids

Councilman Paul Tisdale represents Ward 5, where the shootings occurred.

It just gets so congested. So many people in such a small area, he said.

The residential area behind Surf Style has just one way in and out and Tisdale said, Those folks are just trapped in there.

Story continues

Councilman Felix Gines said spring break has changed from the original draw for college kids who would come to relax and release from their studies.

These kids are north of 30, he said of those who attended spring break. Theyve taken it away from the kids.

He doesnt think the college kids want to come anymore, he said.

When it becomes about guns and drugs its not fun, he said.

The Sun Herald reached out to the NAACP and the Black Spring Break promoter, but did not receive a comment.

Miami, Gulf Shores have spring break limitations

Miami also is looking at restrictions on spring break after shootings this year. The city declared a state of emergency and enforced a temporary curfew for the third consecutive year, according to Business Insider.

Other cities have taken action to limit the number of spring breakers.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, began enforcing hotel and bar capacity limits and tightened open-container laws.

Panama City Beach, Florida, bans alcohol on the beach in March. Gulf Shores extended the ban even longer  from March 4 to April 24. This is the eighth year for the ban for everyone.

Biloxi has had to react to what promoters have brought to this event without consideration of the consequences, said Mayor Andrew FoFo Gilich. The result has been a serious cost to city manpower and resources that could be better used. Our priority is keeping Biloxi safe, friendly, and beautiful.
Free range eggs

Bird flu restrictions ease across most of the UK on Tuesday but experts say the H5N1 virus is still circulating, posing an ongoing risk to wild birds.

The requirement to keep poultry and captive birds inside ends as the threat to them is considered to have eased.

But the RSPB fears a repeat of last year's "catastrophic" toll on breeding colonies during the world's largest ever bird flu outbreak.

The government said wild birds faced " a significant threat" from the virus.

The lifting of restrictions has been welcomed on animal welfare grounds and means eggs laid by hens with access to outdoor areas can be marketed as "free-range" again.

"This is good news for birds that have been kept inside over the winter months - and for consumers that want to be able to buy free range eggs," said Robert Gooch CEO of the British Free-Range Egg Producers Association.

"But some farmers are feeling a sense of trepidation given bird flu is still around in wild birds."

Free-range egg prices have risen over the past 12 months due to egg shortages driven partly by bird flu but chiefly by farmers quitting because of poor prices from retailers, he added.

A major concern for wildlife is that the easing comes as seabirds return en masse to the UK coast to nest.

"The problem has certainly not gone away for wild birds," RSPB director of advocacy and policy Jeff Knott told BBC News.

"Too often the impacts on wild birds - which are incredibly severe - get forgotten. We have to be careful we don't sleepwalk into a catastrophe for our wild birds."

Last year saw the biggest ever outbreak of bird flu in the UK and the world.

The world famous gannet colony at Bass Rock was heavily hit by bird flu

The H5N1 virus caused thousands of deaths in seabirds. Dozens of different species of wild birds were hit, including golden eagles, buzzards, herring gulls and gannets.

Story continues

Mammals were also infected, including otters, foxes, seals and dolphins.

Meanwhile, there were hundreds of outbreaks at poultry farms, with four million farm birds culled.

Free-range poultry was ordered to be brought inside in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, to avoid the birds coming into contact with wild birds.

In Scotland the housing order was never implemented after the country's chief vet said the evidence did not justify such a move.

Free-range eggs will return to shops

The threat of the virus is now deemed low enough to allow free-range poultry and captive birds to be kept outside across the UK, except in small pockets of England and Wales where protection zones remain in place.

Farmers will have to adhere to strict biosecurity measures and keep birds away from land where wild birds congregate.

Prof James Wood of the department of veterinary medicine at the University of Cambridge welcomed the move.

"Where the risk has reduced substantially because the epidemic in wild birds has come down so much over recent weeks it seems very reasonable to me to relax the housing order so that birds can go outside and be free range again and express their normal behaviour in parallel with much improved welfare," he told BBC News.

National Trust rangers inspect a seabird colony on the Farne Islands

But the risk to wild birds is far from over.

Only last week, conservation experts warned that the H5N1 virus may threaten the survival of some bird species in Scotland.

A report found that thousands of migratory barnacle geese have been killed since 2012 with the virus a continuing problem for wild birds.

It was a waiting to game to see whether the disease would cause mass die-offs again or whether the birds have developed immunity and will be protected, said Jeff Knott.

"We're waiting with bated breath to see whether we get a repeat of last year's die off or not," he said. "We are concerned."

A spokesperson from the Department for the Environment (Defra) said the current outbreak "poses a significant threat to the UK's wild bird populations".

They said 1.5m had been invested in a research project to understand how the disease is behaving in wild and kept birds, and the outbreak would continue to be kept under review.

Members of the public coming across dead wild birds are asked not to touch them but to report them to the authorities.

Follow Helen on Twitter @hbriggs.
A Black US teenager who was shot twice after ringing the wrong doorbell has an invitation to the White House once he's recovered, President Joe Biden promised Tuesday, as the suspected shooter, an elderly white man, surrendered to authorities.

Ralph Yarl, 16, was shot twice, once in the head, last Thursday night in the midwestern state of Missouri, after going to the wrong house while trying to pick up his twin brothers.

Biden slammed the incident as another example of the United States' failure to deal with widespread gun violence.

"No parent should have to worry that their kid will be shot after ringing the wrong doorbell. We've got to keep up the fight against gun violence," Biden tweeted, saying he'd spoken with Yarl and his family the night before.

"And Ralph, we'll see you in the Oval once you feel better," the president added.

The suspected shooter, 84-year-old Andrew Lester, was charged on Monday with assault in the first degree and armed criminal action, local prosecutor Zachary Thompson said.

Lester turned himself in on Tuesday, a Clay County sheriff's department spokesperson told AFP.

He was released later in the day on a $200,000 bail, a spokesperson confirmed later.

According to court documents, Lester said he thought the teen was trying to break into his house, and shot him through the glass storm door.

Outrage had risen over the case throughout the weekend, after it was revealed that Lester had initially been released without charges following 24 hours in custody.

"To pretend that race is not a part of this whole situation would be to have your head in the sand," Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas told CNN Tuesday. "This boy was shot because he was existing while black."

Yarl was released from the hospital and continuing to recover at home, his mother Cleo Nagbe told CBS on Tuesday.

"He went and rang the doorbell. And he was supposed to stay outside, and his brothers were supposed to run outside, get in the car and they come home," Nagbe said.

Story continues

"While he was standing there, his brothers didn't run outside, but he got a couple of bullets in his body instead of a couple of twins coming up, out, and giving him a hug."

- 400 million guns -

Yarl's aunt, Faith Spoonmoore, said on a GoFundMe campaign that her nephew was a gifted student who dreamed of studying chemical engineering.

The fundraiser had pulled in nearly $3 million for Yarl by Tuesday afternoon.

Deadly shootings are a regular occurrence in the United States, a country of around 330 million people that is awash with an estimated 400 million guns.

But Yarl's case has sparked a particular outcry as the nation continues to grapple with a long history of lack of accountability for violence against African Americans.

Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves said at a Sunday night press conference that the information at the time "does not say that it's racially motivated" and that the investigation was still active.

"But as a chief of police, I do recognize the racial components of this case. I do recognize and understand the community's concern."

Charges were also filed Monday in a similar case in New York state, where a 20-year-old woman was shot dead.

Police in New York state said Kaylin Gillis had been fatally shot by a homeowner on Saturday night when she showed up with three others at the wrong address when trying to find a friend's house.

"While they were leaving the residence after they determined that they were at the wrong house, the subject came out on his porch for whatever reason and fired two shots, one of which struck the vehicle that Kaylin was in," said Jeffrey Murphy, the sheriff of Washington County, where the shooting took place.

The homeowner identified as the person who fired the shots, 65-year-old Kevin Monahan, was arrested Monday and charged with second-degree murder, according to the sheriff's office.

bur-rle/jh/bfm/mlm/caw/nro/des
(Bloomberg) -- Secretary of State Antony Blinken said a US diplomatic convoy in Sudan was fired upon but everyone in the group was safe.

Most Read from Bloomberg

This action was reckless, it was irresponsible and of course unsafe  a diplomatic convoy, with diplomatic plates, a US flag, being fired upon, he said Tuesday.

Blinken said at a meeting of Group of Seven foreign ministers in the Japanese mountain resort of Karuizawa that the US had deep concern about the overall Sudan security environment. He added that he made clear any attacks on US diplomats were unacceptable in calls he had with generals on opposite sides of the fighting.

We will continue to track this very closely and very carefully, Blinken said.

Blinken said it looked like the Rapid Support Forces paramilitary group was responsible for the attack on the convoy, adding the immediate priority is a quick cease-fire so people can get the help they need.

The Sudanese group battling the army for control of the North African nation ruled out a cease-fire as diplomats struggled to halt fighting that threatens to erupt into a full-scale civil war.

Read: Sudan Ex-Warlord Rebuffs Cease-Fire as Conflict Escalates

Clashes resumed at dawn in the capital, Khartoum, on Monday and continued throughout the day, with some of the most intense violence around the main international airport and army headquarters, along with the neighboring city of Omdurman. Hospitals in the capital were hit by heavy artillery, doctors and labor unions said, as the civilian death toll climbed to at least 97.

Blinken spoke separately with General Abdel Fattah al Burhan, commander of the Sudanese Armed Forces, and General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, commander of the Rapid Support Forces, State Department deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel said in a statement.

Story continues

Blinken underscored the urgency of reaching a cease-fire to permit the delivery of humanitarian assistance to those affected by the fighting, the reunification of Sudanese families and allow the international community in Khartoum to make sure its presence is secure, Patel said.

(Updates with more comments from Blinken.)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Sudanese soldiers drive through the capital of Khartoum. AFP via Getty Images

The North African country of Sudan has long been a powder keg, and tensions have now sparked bitter conflict between warring factions of the Sudanese military. What caused this violence, and how can it be stopped?

What is happening in Sudan?

Armed conflict has broken out between the Sudanese Army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The latter is a paramilitary organization that emerged out of the Janjaweed militia group during the war in Darfur in the early 2000s, The Washington Post reports. Fighting began after the RSF attempted to seize control of the Sudanese government in an ongoing coup d'etat.

A significant portion of the violence has been concentrated in Sudan's capital city, Khartoum, where "Sudan's army launched airstrikes on a rival paramilitary force's base near the capital in an effort to reassert control over the chaotic country," The Guardian reports. Additional fighting has been seen in the aforementioned Darfur region and the eastern area of Kassala, The Guardian adds. At least 185 people have already been killed, according to The Associated Press. An additional 1,800 injuries have also been reported, as both the Sudanese Army and the RSF continue to battle for control of the nation.

The RSF is led by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, "one of the richest and most powerful men in Sudan," as described by Al Jazeera. Dagalo helped grow the RSF out of the Janjaweed in 2013. Since then, the RSF has "committed a wide range of horrific abuses," Human Rights Watch reports, adding that their "violations of international humanitarian law amount to war crimes."

On the other side of the conflict is the head of the Sudanese Army, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, who is "essentially Sudan's leader," CNN says.

The two men were once allies but have since appeared on opposite sides of the conflict after the RSF broke from the military in recent years. Both Dagalo and al-Burhan blamed one another for the war. While Dagalo told Sky News Arabia that the RSF had gained control of key sites in Khartoum, including the presidential palace and multiple airports, al-Burhan has asserted that the military is still in control.

Story continues

What led to the violence?

It is largely the result of tumultuous happenings within Sudan's government. In 2019, the country finally saw a change after a coup ousted Omar al-Bashir, an autocratic leader who was accused of numerous war crimes during his three decades in power. He was replaced by a new prime minister, Abdalla Hamdok, who attempted to create a democratic, civilian-led government.

However, Hamdok himself was deposed from power during a military coup in 2021. Ironically, that overthrow was led by Dagalo and al-Burhan together, in a coup that was "jointly orchestrated by the two generals who were then allies," NBC News reports. This led to the replacement of Hamdok's civilian government with a system led by al-Burhan and the military.

Since then, though, the RSF and the Sudanese Army have each been grappling for power, with both al-Burhan and Dagalo attempting to angle their forces for an eventual showdown. There was an initial plan in place to help Sudan transition back to a civilian-led government, which would have required both the army and the RSF to agree to stop the power struggle. However, negotiations broke down, and "the army accused the RSF of illegal mobilization in preceding days and the RSF, as it moved on key strategic sites in Khartoum, said the army had tried to seize full power," Reuters notes. Within days, large-scale fighting had broken out.

What's the end-game?

The former prime minister, Hamdok, released a video calling for a ceasefire, in which he asks "al-Burhan, the army commanders, and the RSF leaders to stop the bullets immediately and for the voice of reason to rule."

The U.S. secretary of state, along with the Chinese and Russian foreign ministries, released statements calling for an end to the violence, the three countries coming together in a rarely-seen show of unity. Additionally, Volker Perthes, the United Nations' special representative in Sudan, asked the Sudanese military and the RSF "for an immediate cessation of fighting to ensure the safety of the Sudanese people and to spare the country from further violence."

But will the fighting actually stop? The first step would be for mediators to bring both sides to the table. This could be accomplished by a coalition of the UAE, Saudi Arabia, the U.S., and the U.K., "which has sponsored mediation in Sudan along with the U.N. and the African Union," The Guardian reports. However, given that the fighting arose out of "months of rising tensions" that evolved into "an all-out battle for control of one of Africa's biggest countries," The New York Times reports, there may still be a long way to go until peace is achieved.

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Bain is reportedly offering new MBA hires tens of thousands of dollars to delay their start at the consulting firm. Rick Friedman/Corbis via Getty Images

Bain is offering new MBA hires tens of thousands of dollars to delay their starts, per The Wall Street Journal.

Some MBAs were offered $20,000 to become yoga instructors or go on safari.

The incentives come as the consulting industry faces layoffs and a challenging economy.

Bain & Company is offering new MBA hires tens of thousands of dollars to delay their starts at the firm, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal.

In an effort to push back start dates in an uncertain economy, the consulting firm is offering some new MBA hires $40,000 to work for a nonprofit and push their start dates to April 2024, per the Journal. Other communications show the firm offering new hires $30,000 to learn a new language and $20,000 to become yoga instructors or go on a safari in Africa, per the Journal.

McKinsey, meanwhile, did not notify most of their MBA hires of start dates until this week, and some won't start work until next year, per the Journal.

The move to push back start dates for MBA candidates comes as layoffs hit the consulting industry, along with the tech and finance sectors that account for a large number of consultancies' clients.

McKinsey announced plans to eliminate around 2,000 jobs in February. The layoffs reportedly target support roles and are meant to save money that can be used for consultant jobs.

Keith Bevans, Bain's global head of consultant recruiting, told the Journal that asking new hires to delay their start by a year is new for the firm.

"We try to encourage more people to start earlier when times are busy," Bevans said.

Bain did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment.

Firms like Bain and McKinsey often offer new MBA hires some of the highest salaries in an industry that is already one of the highest paying for business school graduates. Both firms offered a base salary of $192,000 in 2023, according to Management Consulted, a resource site for careers in consulting.

In previous years, Bain and McKinsey have offered base salaries of $175,000 to between $190,000 to $192,000 to MBA graduates.

Read the original article on Business Insider
A boat captain was killed in a lightning strike that hit his vessel off the central Florida coast near Orlando, CBS affiliate WKMG-TV reported.

Officials at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission identified the captain Monday as 39-year-old Peter Strong, of West Melbourne, according to the station. One passenger who was on board Strong's boat when the lightning strike happened sustained minor injuries in the incident and was transported to a hospital for treatment.

First responders received a call reporting a vessel that had been struck by lightning while Strong's boat was out on a stretch of Indian River, a lagoon adjacent to Florida's Atlantic shore, near the highway U.S. 1, authorities with Brevard County Fire Rescue reportedly said.

Officials will investigate the lightning strike as a boating accident, according to WKMG-TV.

The lightning strike that killed Strong occurred as severe storms hit parts of central Florida, including Brevard County, on Sunday. Even so, fatal incidents involving lightning strikes are relatively rare in the United States.

Formal records indicate that about 20 people are killed in lightning strikes across the country each year, while hundreds more are injured, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Of the 19 deaths reported through September of last year in connection with lightning strikes, four were reported in Florida, with one reported in New Smyrna Beach, another reported in Winter Springs and two more reported in Orlando, the agency's data shows.

Florida's death toll linked to lightning strikes was the highest of any U.S. state in 2022, based on the data through September. Washington, D.C., followed with the second-highest number after three people were killed by lightning near the White House last August.

Georgia and Puerto Rico reported two fatalities each from lightning. Alabama, California, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, North Carolina, Ohio and Wyoming each reported one death due to lightning strikes, according to the NOAA.

Story continues

CBS News contacted Brevard County Fire Rescue and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to confirm details about the lightning strike that killed Strong, but did not receive immediate replies.

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WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Boeing Co still plans to ramp up production of its best-selling 737 MAX passenger jet this summer, despite a recent manufacturing problem that has paused some deliveries, the planemaker's CEO Dave Calhoun said on Tuesday.

Last week, Boeing indicated that near-term deliveries of the 737 MAX will slow as the company grapples with a new manufacturing problem involving fuselages built by Spirit AeroSystems.

The company is comfortable holding buffer stock as its supply chain ramps up production to support a planned increase from its current rate of 31 MAXs per month, Calhoun said during Boeings annual meeting. Boeing has sought to ramp up output of the MAX following two fatal plane crashes in 2018 and 2019 that killed 346 people and prompted it to curtail production until it fixed safety issues unrelated to the current manufacturing problem.

"We are not changing the supplier master schedule, including any anticipated rate increases," Calhoun said.

Boeing shares rose 1% following Calhouns announcement.

Calhoun did not comment on whether the ongoing manufacturing issue will force Boeing to change its financial outlook or delivery guidance for 2023.

However, Calhoun said Boeings long term guidance for the 2025-2026 timeframe, which calls for the company to achieve about $10 billion in free cash flow and to produce about 50 737 MAXs per month, remains unchanged.

Boeing is expected to further detail the fallout of the problem during first quarter earnings on April 26.

Boeings current plans call for suppliers to increase MAX production to 38 jets by June, Reuters previously reported. From there, the company expects to increase monthly MAX production to 42 planes by January 2024, 47 jets by June 2024 and 52 a month by January 2025  a rate Boeing has not held since 2019, when the company decreased output after two fatal MAX crashes.

However, those plans were called into question by the manufacturing error identified by Spirit last week, which involves two brackets connecting the vertical tail and aft fuselage that were incorrectly installed on a portion of the 737 fleet, including the popular 737 MAX 8 variant.

Story continues

The issue does not affect flight safety and in-service planes can continue to operate, both Boeing and the Federal Aviation Administration said.

The current problems are unrelated to the earlier trouble, which forced the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration to ground the MAX in 2019 after the two fatal crashes in Ethiopia and Indonesia. Federal investigations showed that problem was caused by a faulty stall-prevention system known as MCAS, and the MAX was cleared to resume flights in late 2020.

(Reporting by Valerie Insinna and Nathan Gomes; Editing by Josie Kao and David Gregorio)
Reese Witherspoon is known for her roles in romantic comedies like Legally Blonde and Sweet Home Alabama. But the Oscar-winning actress has also made a name for herself in the literary world, and has been behind anticipated book-to-screen adaptations.

In 2017, Witherspoon launched Reeses Book Club and began recommending books to readers on a monthly basis. From contemporary choices to suspenseful thrillers and even moving memoirs, the book club is not limited to a particular genre.

But there is one defining thread that unites all of the picks. The Whiskey in a Teacup author ensures each book revolves around a female character.

This woman-centric approach is also the crux of Hello Sunshine, the production company she founded in 2016. Witherspoon sold the company in 2021 for about $900 million but remains involved with projects.

Thanks to Hello Sunshine, Witherspoon has brought some of her favorite selections to life with Daisy Jones & the Six," Where the Crawdads Sing" and the upcoming series "The Last Thing He Told Me." Witherspoon even took a starring turn in another adaptation, Little Fires Everywhere," which was nominated for five Emmys.

Heres a roundup of all 81 of her page-turning picks.

TODAY independently determines what we cover and recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more.

TODAY

The author of "Prep" and "Eligible" tries out a new genre: The romantic comedy, as the title suggests.

Inspired by Saturday Night Live, the book follows a comedy writer on the who has been spurned from love after falling for a colleague. When Sally Milz meets the performing guest on the show, she tries, and fails, to shut him out of her heart. Who can resist a rock star? Turns out, not Sally.

Witherspoon called it a "hilarious, sweet, smart read."

Set in France in 1939 during the Nazi occupation, this historical fiction novel centers around two sisters trying to survive at wartime. The eldest, Vianne, is left to care for her daughter alone when her husband heads to fight on the front line and the enemy invades their village, and their home. And the younger rebellious sister, Isabelle, falls in love with a man who betrays her and she joins the Resistance movement to help save her country. While the two sisters find themselves on different paths as they navigate their war torn nation they are ultimately connected through their passion and resilience.

Story continues

This important story illuminates a part of history thats often overlooked: the womens war, Witherspoon said. Its a harrowing tale of two sisters, survival, love, and female resilience throughout Nazi-occupied France.

Telling the story of two womens lives that collide in the most unlikely of ways, this historical fiction novel takes place in both Philadelphia and Washington D.C. during the 1950s. In Philadelphia, 15-year-old Ruby Pearsall is determined to be the first in her family to attend college. But a forbidden love affair threatens to derail her scholarly plan. Meanwhile in Washington D.C., Eleanor Quarles marries into an affluent family and hopes that having a baby will welcome her into the fold. The story, which explores race and class, touches on the meaning of being a woman and a mother and the extent to which a person will go to achieve her goal.

Set in the 1950s, this unforgettable story follows Ruby who dreams of being the first in her family to attend college, but her first love may derail her plans, Witherspoon said. And Eleanor who marries into one of D.C.s elite wealthy Black families but struggles to have a baby  the thing she wants most.

TODAY

Maya is struggling to forget her past. Seven years ago she was a high school senior when her best friend, Aubrey, unexpectedly dropped dead in the presence of a mysterious man named Frank. Now living in Boston and trying to overcome her drug addiction resulting from her previous trauma, Maya comes across a recent YouTube video in which a young woman suddenly dies in a diner while sitting across from the very same man. Haunted by the two deaths, Maya returns to her hometown in the Berkshires determined to uncover the truth. Mayas quest for answers leads her right back to Franks cabin deep in the woods.

This is an absolute, cant-put-it-down thriller ... Its truly a wild ride that had me flying through chapter after chapter  which I think is the perfect way to kick off your year of reading," Witherspoon said.

The Marriage Portrait

Set in Florence in the 1550s, this fictional interpretation of Lucrezia de Cosimo de Medici details the life of the third daughter of a grand duke, who is enjoying a carefree life following her artistic passion. That is  until her older sister dies on the eve of her wedding, where she was set to marry the ruler of Ferrara, Modena and Reggio. Following her sister's death, the ruler asks Lucrezias father for her hand in marriage.

Lucrezia, at just 15, is forced to refocus her life and find her way within her new, unwelcoming family. That includes understanding her husband who seems more threatening since they married. As she sits for her portrait, she is acutely aware that her survival rests on the ability to produce an heir.

I could not stop Googling all the details of this true story," Witherspoon said. "Its a fascinating, historical thriller about an Italian duchess, who we learn at the very beginning of the book will die either by sickness ... or by her husbands hand. I cant wait to hear what you think!

For more than a decade, Dear Sugar has been a beloved internet advice column, thanks to its trademark mix of sound practical advice and meaningful personal anecdotes. Initially an advice column for online literary magazine The Rumpus, Sugar dispensed advice on topics like love, loss, self acceptance and finance with humor, insight and compassion.

Working under a pseudonym, Sugar was later revealed to be Cheryl Strayed, acclaimed author of the bestselling memoir "Wild."

"Tiny Beautiful Things" is a compilation of the best of her Dear Sugar columns, cementing Strayed as the Dear Abby of the next generation.

At the beginning of her career, Cheryl took on the persona of Sugar and wrote an advice column, Dear Sugar, that became a sensation. Sugars advice is no-nonsense, poignant, soul-searching, grounded and fierce in so many loving ways, Witherspoon said.

In a dystopian America, Bird Gardner, 12, lives with his father in Cambridge, Massachusetts under an oppressive authoritarian government.

In this new world, books critical of the regime are banned, the children of unpatriotic parents are removed from homes and there is general distrust of Asian people due to an ongoing world war. Birds mother Margaret, an accomplished Chinese American poet whose books were banned, disappeared a few years before the book started. But then Bird receives a mysterious letter, which contains only a cryptic drawing, and he sets out to find out the truth about what happened to his mother and what the future holds for both of them.

"I was so invested in the future of this mother and son," Witherspoon said.

It's 1950s San Francisco, and The Salvations, a sister trio, reign supreme. Ruth, Esther and Chloe have been singing in harmony since before they could speak. And with the direction of their ambitious mother, Vivian, the jazz band is on the brink of superstardom. But just when all the hours of rooftop rehearsals seem to be paying off, Vivian must confront the fact that her dream of musical stardom for the three girls collides with the daughters own dreams and ambitions. And as Vivians hold on her daughters begins to weaken, she must not only confront the changes in her own family but in the San Francisco neighborhood she has called home.

"An utterly original and brilliant story about learning how to mother children who have very different dreams and how to encourage them to reach for the stars," Witherspoon said.

Late one evening, Jen is patiently watching out the window waiting for the return of her 17-year-old son, Todd, from a night out. When she finally sees him approaching the house she also notices another man nearby. She then witnesses Todd stab the man to death.

With Todd now in police custody, anguished Jen falls asleep to wake up to  the previous day. And each subsequent night of sleep reveals another day earlier. Through this high-stakes time travel tale, Jen has an opportunity to uncover why the crime happened and potentially save her son from making the same mistake again.

This book is SO good," Witherspoon said.

As the host of the student radio show Brown Sugar, Kiki Banjo's mission is to to dispense sound romantic advice. She urges the women of the African-Caribbean Society at Whitewell University to avoid situationships, which  in her mind  inevitably lead to heartbreak.

But she just made a huge mistake. She kissed Whitewell University's biggest player, in public, and now her shows reputation is on the line. In order to save it, she dives into a fake relationship with him  which means theyre forced to spend some alone time together. And when they do, Kiki feels an undeniable electric connection.

Its all about a young British black woman named Kiki with a ton of ambition," Witherspoon said. "She wants to land an internship in NYC, but she needs to grow the audience for her radio show and work with another student on a film. This other student is Malakaiand we all know where this is going.

They're an unlikely duo. Ava Wong, a Chinese American lawyer, has created a seemingly perfect life for herself  that is, until you peel back the layers and see the struggles shes facing with her marriage, law career and young son. Winnie Fang, on the other hand, lives life on the edge, which entails spearheading a counterfeit luxury handbag empire.

The pair were roommates in college until Winnie dropped out abruptly under mysterious circumstances. After 20 years, the two reconnect when Winnie needs someone with a U.S. passport to help with her scheme.When Winnie disappears once again, Ava is left to deal with the consequences all on her own.

(It's) like having a friend tell you the juiciest story," Witherspoon said. "Its non-stop, and every minute I was like Oh my gosh, are they going to get caught?!

Set in England during the early 20th century at the height of the womens suffrage movement, young Esme is born into a world of words. Her father, and a team of lexicographers, are collecting words for the first Oxford English Dictionary as she watches from below the sorting table. One day a piece of paper with a rejected word flutters down: Bondmaid. After learning that the word means slave girl, she begins to find that many words relating to the female experience are being discarded.

Inspired by real life events, Esme becomes determined to create her own dictionary called "The Dictionary of Lost Words" to include these overlooked words. She sets out to meet the women whose words will fill the pages.

'The Dictionary of Lost Words' by Pip Williams is a beautiful exploration of history and the power of language," Witherspoon said. "For anybody who loves words and celebrates them, this subversive story weaves together love, loss and literature in a perfectly lyrical way.

At the River Valley School for the Deaf in Ohio, theres Charlie, a rebellious transfer student who has had a faulty cochlear implant her whole life. Theres Austin, the schools golden boy, whose baby sister was born with hearing. And theres also February, a CODA, which stands for child of deaf adult(s), who is headmistress and trying to preserve both the school and her marriage. While the three are each facing their own individual crises over the course of the school year, they discover that their lives are inextricably tied to one another and their community.

"'True Biz' by Sara Novic, is an eye-opening and heartfelt story about human connection and the beauty and adversity woven into the deaf community and culture," Witherspoon said. "It is both an educational and electrifying peek into a familys life as they fight to forge connections even as the outside world threatens to close the door on them.

More picks

The Club by Ellery Lloyd

The Christie Affair by Nina de Gramont

Anatomy by Dana Schwartz

Honor by Thrity Umrigar

Lucky by Marissa Stapley

The Island of Missing Trees by Elif Shafak

Sankofa by Chibundu Onuzo

Within These Wicked Walls by Lauren Blackwood

L.A. Weather by Maria Amparo Escandon

We Were Never Here by Andrea Bartz

The Downstairs Girl by Stacey Lee

Paper Palace by Miranda Cowley Heller

Seven Days in June by Tia Williams

Tokyo Ever After by Emiko Jean

The Last Thing He Told Me by Laura Dave

Northern Spy by Flynn Berry

Firekeepers Daughter by Angeline Boulley

Infinite Country by Patricia Engel

The Sanatorium by Sarah Pearse

You Have a Match by Emma Lord

Outlawed by Anna North

The Light in Hidden Places by Sharon Cameron

The Chicken Sisters by KJ DellAntonia

A Cuban Girls Guide to Tea and Tomorrow by Laura Taylor Namey

Group by Christie Tate

Fable by Adrienne Young

His Only Wife by Peace Medie Adzo

Furia by Yamile Saied Mendez

The Last Story of Mina Lee by Nancy Jooyoun Kim

You Should See Me in a Crown by Leah Johnson

Everything Inside by Edwidge Danticat

Im Still Here by Austin Channing Brown

The Guest List by Lucy Foley

The Henna Artist by Alka Joshi

UNTAMED by Glennon Doyle

The Jetsetters by Amanda Eyre Ward

The Scent Keeper by Erica Bauermeister

Such A Fun Age by Kiley Reid

Conviction by Denise Mina

The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes

Fair Play by Eve Rodsky

The Secrets We Kept by Lara Prescott

The Last House Guest by Megan Miranda

Whisper Network by Chandler Baker

The Cactus by Sarah Haywood

From Scratch by Tembi Locke

The Night Tiger by Yangsze Choo

Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid

The Proposal by Jasmine Guillory

The Library Book by Susan Orlean

One Day In December by Josie Silver

The Other Woman by Sandie Jones

This Is How It Always Is by Laurie Frankel

Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens

Still Lives by Maria Hummel

Next Year in Havana by Chanel Cleeton

Something in the Water by Catherine Steadman

You Think It, Ill Say It by Curtis Sittenfeld

Happiness by Heather Harpham

Erotic Stories For Punjabi Widows by Balli Kaur Jaswal

The Light We Lost by Jill Santopolo

Braving the Wilderness by Brene Brown

The Last Mrs. Parrish by Liv Constantine

This Is the Story of a Happy Marriage by Ann Patchett

The Rules of Magic by Alice Hoffman

Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng

The Lying Game by Ruth Ware

The Alice Network by Kate Quinn

Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
The border guards who defend the city of Bakhmut in Donetsk Oblast remark that the Russian forces are now composed of fewer convicts and a more professional military. Fierce battles are ongoing in the city centre.

Source: State Border Guard Service of Ukraine

Quote: "The battle for Bakhmut has lasted for almost nine months. Despite significant losses, the Russian forces continue to storm the settlement, slowly advancing.

The confrontation moved to the central part of the city.

The fighting in the dense urban area occurs at minimal distance. Sometimes the occupiers and the Ukrainian forces are separated by a few metres, which makes it more difficult to hold the defence."

Details: As the border guards explain, the occupiers are using the following tactic: a group of soldiers (from 5 to 10) go to the forefront to conduct reconnaissance, launch an attack in order to provoke the Defence Forces of Ukraine to attack in response and calculate their position. The Russians are using a lot of drones for aerial reconnaissance. They can be creeping up for three days, launch chaotic attacks, provoke upon discovering a firing point of the Ukrainians, and then the assault group tries to encircle the position of the Defence Forces.

The border guards did not notice any "shell hunger", which the Wagner Group had reported about earlier. Instead they noted changes in the personnel of the Russian forces (convicts were replaced by professional military).

The new footage shows the border guards engaging in street fights, hunting for the Russian aircraft, attacking the Russian forces, and saving their fellow soldiers.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
Students experience a liquid layering experiment during the National Science Popularization Day held in Baohe District of Hefei City, east China's Anhui Province, Sept. 20, 2020. [Photo/Xinhua]

The China Association of Science and Technology (CAST) stepped up its support for science popularization talent by offering career development opportunities in the sector, CAST said on Monday.

The association has begun piloting the implementation of professional title evaluation among science popularization workers in some institutes in Beijing.

"This will be conductive to strengthening the professional science popularization team further in China," CAST said.

There is an urgent need for a professional team of talent that is willing to promote science popularization and knows how to do that, in order to serve the high-quality development of science popularization work in the new era, said Wang Ting, director of the China Research Institute for Science Popularization.

The implementation of professional title evaluation is an important means to guide talent growth in the sector, and will also strengthen people's recognition of and attention toward the work of science popularization, Wang added.

According to data released by the Ministry of Science and Technology, there were more than 1.8 million people working either full-time or part-time on science popularization in the country in 2021, an increase of 0.8 percent over 2020.
A British man has been jailed for 10 years in Morocco for possessing and distributing counterfeit money while on holiday.

Oliver Andrews, from Bournemouth, had travelled with a friend to Marrakech when they were arrested in November.

The pair, who have already spent five months in prison, were convicted and sentenced at a hearing on 11 April.

Mr Andrews' partner, Alanna Cornick, described it as the "worst possible outcome" and said they would appeal.

On 10 November 2022, the 29-year-old and a friend went to a nightclub on the last night of their holiday.

The following morning, Moroccan police arrested both men and told Mr Andrews half of his money was counterfeit, his family said.

The pair were also accused of creating an organised criminal group and making counterfeit money but judges at last week's court hearing acquitted them of both charges.

Following the sentencing, Ms Cornick said: "I've been an absolute mess. I'm lost for words - I literally can't believe it.

"It's been the most emotional 24 hours ever. We've just got to stay hopeful and keep our fingers crossed."

Mr Andrews says he did not know the money was counterfeit.

The men are now waiting for a new court date when the case will be heard again by a different judge.

Follow BBC South on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. Send your story ideas to south.newsonline@bbc.co.uk.
Tanaiste Michael Martin (left) and Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris attending the three-day international conference at Queen's University Belfast to mark the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement - Niall Carson

Boycotting Stormont threatens Northern Irelands place in the UK more than Rishi Sunaks Brexit deal, Chris Heaton-Harris told the DUP as he urged them to put the Union first and get back to power-sharing.

Real leaders know when to say yes, the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland said, as he called on the DUP to embrace the Windsor Framework and return to devolved government, which was created by the Good Friday Agreement.

Mr Heaton-Harris praised unionist leaders David Trimble and David Ervine for leading not only their own parties, but unionism and loyalism in saying yes to peace during Good Friday Agreement negotiations 25 years ago.

Real leadership is about knowing when to say yes, and having the courage to do so, he said at an event at Queens University Belfast.

"Let no one tell you that power sharing is in any way at odds with unionism. Instead is the surest way by which Northern Ireland's place in the Union can be secured, Mr Heaton-Harris said.

The DUP has boycotted Stormont for the last 14 months over post-Brexit trade rules for the region, despite Rishi Sunaks new Windsor Framework deal with Brussels.

That new Brexit deal, which was signed in February, has not yet been accepted by the DUP, which fears Northern Irelands place in the UK is jeopardised by the Irish Sea border.

The lack of devolved government has made Northern Irish politicians powerless to respond to issues such as the cost of living crisis in the UKs poorest region and the lengthiest NHS waiting times in the UK.

'Put the Union first - and get on with the job'

Mr Heaton-Harris said: The people in Northern Ireland are rightly demanding better, more responsive public services, greater economic prosperity and a brighter future for their children.

The biggest threat to Northern Ireland's place in the union is failing to deliver on these priorities.

He added: I make no apologies for being proud of Northern Ireland's place in the Union and for wanting it to continue.

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Others who share that view should put the Union first, restore the devolved institutions and get on with the job of delivering for the people of Northern Ireland.

'I am not here to bow to presidents and prime ministers'

DUP MLA Emma Little-Pengelly said the Good Friday Agreement had been undermined by the Brexit deal.

She said the peace agreement guaranteed Northern Ireland would remain part of the UK until there was a referendum for reunification, which allowed power-sharing for the first time.

Ms Little-Pengelly said unionists felt the Northern Ireland Protocol and Windsor Framework broke that guarantee by introducing border checks with Britain and the region continuing to be subject to EU laws.

Those grievances. They exist. They're real, they're genuine. If they had been listened to two years ago, the institutions would not have collapsed, she said.

If the promises made to unionism in Northern Ireland had been fulfilled, the institutions would not have collapsed.

The reality is sometimes as hard as it may be, it is the right thing to say no, this is not fair, Ms Little-Pengelly said.

If we move into the Assembly without getting the foundations right and addressing these issues, then there's only going to be a collapse again.

We can only get it back if we get this right, she added, I am not here to bow to presidents and prime ministers. I am here to speak for the people on their genuine concerns.

Former US President Bill Clinton (left) meets with Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Chris Heaton-Harris at a banquet at Belfast City Hall - Niall Carson

Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, the leader of the DUP, who faces tricky local elections next month, said he had a useful exchange with former president Bill Clinton on Monday but refused a swift return to Stormont.

Mr Heaton-Harris also addressed US concerns over a lack of cooperation between Dublin and London to break the Stormont deadlock, expressed by Joe Biden in a speech to the Irish parliament last Thursday.

The cooperation between the UK and Irish government is vital to protecting and upholding the agreement and I am determined in my capacity as Secretary of State to deepen and strengthen that vital relationship, Mr Heaton-Harris said.

Micheal Martin, Irelands deputy prime minister, also called on the DUP to return to power-sharing, a day after similar calls by Tony Blair and Hillary Clinton and a week after Mr Biden dangled the prospect of billions in US investment if they did.

Mr Martin, a former Taoiseach, admitted that relations between London and Dublin had been stretched by Brexit, which created a UK land border with the EU for the first time.

It is no secret that our two governments have not always acted in concert at all times in recent years, he said.

But I'm delighted to say that our partnership is manifestly better now than it has been for quite some time. Of course, like everything else of value, it needs continued care, commitment, and investment.

Mary Lou McDonald, the leader of Sinn Fein, said, We need the government up and running and that means we need a decision from all political leaders that again, we will work together, we will share power.
The boyfriend of a woman fatally shot in her west Wichita home in 2021 has been charged with her first-degree premeditated murder.

Jon Zachary Lovell, 42, made a first appearance in Sedgwick County District Court on Monday afternoon in connection with the March 19, 2021, death of 38-year-old Natasha Arvidson. Arvidsons family found her unresponsive and wounded in the basement of the house, in the 10600 block of West Taft, near Maple and Maize, after her boyfriend told them they needed to go there to check on her, according to her autopsy report. Arvidsons boyfriend contacted the family after the couple had argued and he left the home, the report says.

Despite medical intervention, Arvidson died at the scene from a gunshot wound to the head, according to her autopsy report and information released by Wichita police in 2021.

A judge on Monday afternoon set Lovells bond in the murder case at $500,000 and told him a public defender would be appointed to represent him, records show. He was ordered to return to court on May 1 for a preliminary hearing.

Lovell was also charged Monday in a separate case with two counts of drug possession and one count of use or possession with the intent to use drug paraphernalia on March 21, 2021, and for failing to appear in court in a third case. His bonds in those cases total $27,500.

The charges follow Lovells parole from prison, where he had been serving time for a prior parole violation, Kansas Department of Corrections records show. His previous criminal convictions in Kansas include robbery, drug possession, driving under the influence and fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement, according to the KDOC.
Ruby (@rudie.cant.fail), the owner of the fashion label rudie, recently created a video drawing attention to the harmful ways in which the fashion industry operates  specifically, its tendency to either steal from kids on the street or bar them from participating in the conversation altogether.

I have to talk about this extremely niche fashion industry thing that I cant get out of my brain, Ruby begins. So, early 90s grunge is hitting the scene, Nirvana is, like, on MTV, the whole grunge ethos is like, we dont care, were apathetic, were not like pop culture, jocks are stupid, the industry sucks, nothing matters et cetera.

Ruby then references Steven Meisels Grunge & Glory editorial shoot, which was styled by Grace Coddington, for Vogues December 1992 issue.

Worn out combat boots, flannels, stuff that looks like you bought it all at Goodwill. Actually, a Nirvana t-shirt, Ruby explains of the shoots sartorial choices. Very Ally Sheedy Breakfast Club, nobody understands me in my regular, degular high school and Im different.

Seattle, Wash., the birthplace of grunge, is to credit for plugging the world into the zeitgeist of the scene, both musically and aesthetically.

Thrifting is a verb in Seattle. Flannel and leatherette, the boho-hobo staples of second-hand attire, are the basics of a nonfashion statement reads an excerpt of Rick Marins Grunge: A Success Story for the New York Times in 1992. A flannel shirt worn around the waist is a precaution against the Pacific Northwests mercurial clime. Army boots slog effectively through mudThis stuff is cheap, its durable, and its kind of timeless. It also runs against the grain of the whole flashy esthetic that existed in the 80s.

The sudden popularization and commodification of the grunge aesthetic, which was a pretty regular rendition of Seattle style at the time, Ruby points out, was met with controversy. What pushed things over the edge, however, was Marc Jacobss infamous grunge-inspired spring/summer 1993 show for Perry Ellis, which ultimately got him fired as creative director. The runway show served two functions: It immortalized the impact of grunge in fashion history and confirmed the industrys fear of its prevalence at the time.

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Why fear it, you might ask? Because it was apparently sullying the fashion industrys highbrow appeal.

He puts out this ready-to-wear show that is grunge-themed, Ruby explains. Anyway, this show cost Marc Jacobs his job. Apparently the capital F fashion industry itself, was very scandalized by this show and they thought that it was putting a bad name on fashion, and taking away from, like, the sophisticated myths of it all.

According to the band Holes frontwoman Courtney Love, she and her husband, Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain, were also against Jacobss show. In fact, the duo apparently burned almost all of the collection, which was gifted to them, and this is something she actually regrets.

Do you know what we did with it? We burned it, Love told WWD. We were punkers  we didnt like that kind of thing.

Ruby believes that with regard to the kids on the street, the fashion industry is either gatekeeping or stealing from them, under the guise of protecting its supposed sophistication.

The more I think about this, the more it makes me realize that the fashion industry as Big Brother doesnt know what it likes, doesnt know what it wants, doesnt know what is cool, Ruby asserts. And its constantly either taking bits and pieces from the kids on the street without understanding what theyre trying to say, or its excluding the kids on the street and saying, You dont understand what we do here.'

Moral of the story is f*** the industry and the pages of the magazine and the runways, and just wear whatever you want, she adds.

In The Know by Yahoo is now available on Apple News  follow us here!

The post Brand owner talks 90s grunge controversy, and accuses the fashion industry of either excluding or stealing from the kids on the street appeared first on In The Know.

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BRASILIA, Brazil (AP)  Brazils government announced efforts Tuesday to spend more on securing schools and crack down on the incitement of violence as officials seek to curb a wave of fatal school attacks.

The array of measures were discussed at a meeting convened by President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in the capital, Brasilia, among ministers, governors and mayors.

The governments effort to shore up school security began earlier this month after a man killed four children at a day care center in the southern state of Santa Catarina. Three other incidents occurred in the preceding months of 2023.

This is a moment for us all to unite, independent of political, partisan or ideological issues, Education Minister Camilo Santana said at the opening of the event, attended by all but one of Brazil's 27 governors and dozens of mayors.

Whats at stake is the lives of kids and adolescents in our country," Santana said.

Santana announced 3.12 billion reais ($625 million) in funding for schools to reinforce security and infrastructure, plus tens of millions more for treating mental health and training teachers in prevention.

The government has also created an online program to teach safety recommendations to school administrators and teachers, a task force for monitoring of social media and hotlines to report suspicious activity.

The latter actions, in particular, have contributed to a crackdown by the justice ministry and state police forces against adults and minors suspected of inciting violence in schools. Over the past 10 days, 225 people have been arrested or detained, according to Justice Minister Flavio Dino, adding that his ministry's website received more than 7,000 reports in the same period.

The number of arrests and detentions allows us to see that these arent isolated cases, and shows that bad actors use online platforms to recruit our youth for evil, Dino said.

School violence in Brazil had been uncommon, but has grown increasingly frequent in recent years. From 2000 to 2022, 16 attacks or violent episodes happened in schools, four of them in the second half of last year, according to a report from researchers led by Daniel Cara, an education professor at the University of Sao Paulo.

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That's why we are here: to cut off this dangerous ascent of violence, of hatred, Dino said.

At the meeting, regulation of social media was a recurring proposal to prevent further incidents, particularly holding platforms responsible for failing to remove content that incites violence. Dino noted that some companies that initially resisted compliance with takedown requests have come around and, in the past 10 days, removed or suspended more than 750 profiles.

Alexandre de Moraes, a Supreme Court justice who is also president of the electoral authority, compared violent comments shared on social media to fake news during last year's presidential race, as well as the antidemocratic speech that led to an uprising in the capital on Jan. 8, with supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro trashing government buildings.

Efforts to clamp down on antidemocratic speech last year often followed the contours of Brazil's political divide, and so prompted allegations of repression of free speech. De Moraes referred to social media as a no-mans land where users can still get away with actions and speech that are illegal in real life, and said regulation is needed. Lula voiced his support for regulation, too.

Either we have the courage to discuss the difference between freedom of expression and stupidity, or we won't get very far, Lula said, speaking after everyone else at the meeting.

Lula's administration since January has adopted measures to tighten gun control, reversing the push by Bolsonaro to facilitate access. However, Lula didn't touch on the issue Tuesday, nor did others  perhaps because it is increasingly a political hot button, or because knives have been more commonly used in Brazilian school attacks.

Nor did Lula support schools resorting to walls, metal detectors or inspections of children's backpacks. Instead, he focused on the need for stronger parental education and resources for mental health.

We are not going to transform our schools into a maximum security prison, which will not work. There is no money for that, and it is not politically correct, humanely correct or socially correct, Lula said.

If we try to do that, we are demonstrating that we aren't very useful, because we don't know how to resolve the real problem.
SAO PAULO (Reuters) -Brazil's federal police said on Tuesday they were carrying out new raids as part of an investigation into the Jan. 8 riots in Brasilia, in which supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro stormed government buildings.

They were serving 16 preventive arrest warrants and 22 search and seizure warrants ordered by the Supreme Court in seven states and the federal district, where Brasilia is located, a statement said.

"Investigations continue so that the law is fully observed," Justice Minister Flavio Dino wrote on Twitter after the federal police announcement. "This is the only way we will secure peace and democracy."

The raids represent the tenth phase of an operation launched in mid-January to identify people who participated in, funded or fostered the riots, in which a crowd protesting President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's election victory invaded and ransacked the Congress, presidential palace and Supreme Court.

Police did not disclose the names of those targeted in the raids, but said they were being investigated for crimes of "violent abolition of the rule of law, coup d'etat, qualified damage, criminal association, incitement, destruction and deterioration of specially protected property".

Last week, Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes ordered Bolsonaro to testify before federal police about his role in the riots, agreeing to a request filed by the country's top public prosecutor, who said Bolsonaro's testimony was an "indispensable" step to clarifying what happened.

Bolsonaro has denied any responsibility for the riots, which recalled the 2021 storming of the U.S. Capitol by supporters of former President Donald Trump. He has argued that he was out of the country in self-imposed exiled in Florida, where he flew two days before his term ended without conceding defeat.

(Reporting by Gabriel Araujo; Editing by Andrew Heavens and Chizu Nomiyama)
BRASILIA, Brazil  Russias Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Monday expressed gratitude to Brazil for its approach in pushing for an end to hostilities in Ukraine  an effort that has irked both Kyiv and the West, and by afternoon prompted an unusually sharp rebuke from the White House.

Brazils President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has refused to provide weapons to Ukraine while proposing a club of nations including Brazil and China to mediate peace.

On Sunday, Lula told reporters in Abu Dhabi that two nations  Russia and Ukraine  had decided to go to war, and a day earlier in Beijing said the U.S. must stop stimulating the continued fighting and start discussing peace. Earlier this month, he suggested Ukraine could cede Crimea to end the war, which the spokesperson for Ukraines foreign ministry, Oleg Nikolenko, and others rejected.

After meeting Brazils foreign minister on Monday, Lavrov told reporters in a short press conference that the West has engaged in a rather tough struggle to maintain its dominance in world affairs, including economics and geopolitics.

As for the process in Ukraine, we are grateful to our Brazilian friends for their excellent understanding of this situations genesis. We are grateful (to them) for striving to contribute to finding ways to settle it, Lavrov said, sitting alongside his Brazilian counterpart, Mauro Vieira.

Lulas recent comments, particularly those ascribing any blame to Ukraine for Russias invasion in February 2022, run counter to the position held by the European Union, the U.S. and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. And any talk of a ceasefire is viewed as an opportunity for Russia to regroup its forces for a new offensive. Zelenskyy told The Associated Press last month that a loss anywhere at this stage in the war could put Ukraines hard-fought momentum at risk.

Vieira, for his part, told reporters that Brazil sees sanctions against Russia as causing negative impacts for the global economy, particularly developing nations, and that Brazil supports an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine.



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Following the meeting, National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby blasted Brazils approach to the war and for its officials having met Lavrov and Russias Vladimir Putin in person, while thus far only speaking to Ukrainian officials by phone.

Brazil has substantively and rhetorically approached this issue by suggesting that the United States and Europe are somehow not interested in peace or that we share responsibility for the war, Kirby told reporters in Washington. In this case, Brazil is parroting Russian and Chinese propaganda without at all looking at the facts.

Kirby said the Biden administration hoped Lula and others will urge the Russians to cease the bombing of Ukrainian cities, hospitals and schools, halt the war crimes and the atrocities and, quite frankly, to pull back Russian forces from Ukraine.

Both foreign ministers were meeting with Lula in the afternoon.

As part of his effort to end the war, Lula also has withheld munitions to Ukraine, despite a request from Germanys Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Lula has said that sending supplies would mean Brazil entering the war, which he seeks to end. His administration is seeking to simultaneously develop ties with China, Europe and the U.S. while keeping an open door to Russia.


A T. rex skeleton dubbed Trinity is seen in Switzerland. Michael Buholzer/Keystone via AP

A massive Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton is set to be auctioned off in Switzerland on Tuesday, but investors will need a Jurassic-sized check if they want to get their hands on it.

The composite skeleton, dubbed Trinity, is made up of 293 bones collected from three sites across Montana and Wyoming. It stands 38 feet long and 12.8 feet high, The Associated Press reported, and is expected to fetch anywhere from $5.6 million to $8.9 million at the Koller auction house in Zurich.

Trinity is made up of more than half "original bone material," according to Koller, which describes it as "one of the most spectacular T. rex skeletons in existence, a well-preserved and brilliantly restored fossil." Finding a preserved, original T. rex skull  like the one on Trinity  is also a rare feat.

"When dinosaurs died in the Jurassic or Cretaceous periods, they often lost their heads," said scientific advisor Nils Knoetschke, per AP, adding, "Most dinosaurs are found without their skulls, but here we have truly original Tyrannosaurus skull bones that all originate from the same specimen."

Adding to the rarity is the fact that Trinity is "not a cast or a copy, it's the original. And there are very few," Hans Jacob-Siber, a paleontologist at Switzerland's Aathal Dinosaur Museum, told Reuters. "In fact, until about 1970 or 1980, there used to be less than a dozen Tyrannosaurus [skeletons]."

Trinity will be just the third completed T. rex skeleton to be offered at auction, and the first ever in Europe. Two other T. rexes found in North America, Sue and Stan, were sold for $8.4 million and $31.8 million, respectively, CNN reported. Sue is a permanent fixture at Chicago's Field Museum of Natural History, and Stan is slated to headline a new natural history museum opening in Abu Dhabi in 2025.

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Leaked U.S. files jumped from online spats to global breach through pro-Russia account run by U.S. Navy vet

Codeword: April 15, 2023
By Phil Stewart

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Britain on Tuesday played down the impact from the leaks of highly classified U.S. intelligence documents online, saying some of the information being circulated from them was untrue and manipulated, without offering specific examples.

A 21-year-old member of the U.S. Air National Guard accused of leaking top secret military intelligence records online was arrested last week and charged with unlawfully copying and transmitting classified material.

The leaks are believed to be the most serious U.S. security breach since more than 700,000 documents, videos and diplomatic cables appeared on the WikiLeaks website in 2010.

Still, Ben Wallace, the British defense minister, told reporters in Washington that he observed inaccuracies in his review of the published information. He urged the public to be skeptical of the leaked material.

"I'm not going to comment on a specific part of the leak, but I have seen in our media a number of inaccuracies, significant inaccuracies, or manipulation of information," Wallace said.

"My advice is don't take it at face value."

He said the leak had "absolutely not" damaged relations with the United States and would not strengthen Russia or weaken Ukraine in their conflict.

Reuters reviewed some of the leaked documents, which included one that asserted that Britain, the United States and other countries had military special operations forces operating inside Ukraine. The Pentagon has said U.S. forces in Ukraine operate from the embassy and help track U.S. weapons provisions to Kyiv to help it defend itself against invading Russian forces.

The Washington Post reported on a leaked Defense Intelligence Agency assessment it says it obtained that anticipated 2023 will end without any Ukraine battlefield breakthrough for either side.

Without commenting on the documents themselves, Wallace expressed confidence in Ukraine's battlefield momentum, played down the idea of a stalemate and dismissed any characterization of the war as a "frozen conflict."

"The momentum is still with them. It may not be whoosh bang momentum but it is certainly forward -- and momentum matters," Wallace said.

(Reporting by Phil Stewart; additional reporting by William James in London; Editing by Alistair Bell)
The Broward School Board voted unanimously Tuesday not to pursue an outside investigation of two board members accused of inappropriate touching, leaving it up to the states ethics commission to handle instead.

The board members facing the allegations are Brenda Fam, who represents District 6, and Allen Zeman, who represents the entire county through the at-large Seat 8.

It would seem superfluous at this point to have another investigation by an outside investigator, Broward Schools General Counsel Marylin Batista told board members Tuesday.

The board also voted to require board members to attend sensitivity and cultural awareness training with topics of discrimination, harassment, sexual harassment and retaliation. It also agreed to revise its policy 1007, the ethics code for school board members, and policy 1005, which outlines the responsibilities and authority of the school board, to include a process on how to deal with similar scenarios in the future.

Board member Brenda Fam, left, speaks while Allen Zeman and the rest of the board listen during a Broward County School Board meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2023, in Fort Lauderdale.

Last week, the board debated the issue for nearly three hours but ultimately postponed the decision whether to hire an outside firm to investigate until Tuesday so they could seek Batistas counsel. She was on vacation last week.

Batista was the only top district employee who worked closely with both the former superintendent, Vickie Cartwright, and the newly appointed interim, Earlean Smiley, when the allegations surfaced. Cartwright and the district mutually parted ways in late January.

Details about the Fam, Zeman incidents

On Tuesday, Batista said the first incident involved Zeman hitting an employee on the buttocks during a break of the Dec. 13 School Board meeting. The employee told then-Superintendent Cartwright he didnt want to file a complaint and hadnt been offended by what had happened, Batista said.

Batista recommended Cartwright refer the matter to the districts Special Investigations Unit, which Cartwright did. Craig Kowalski, chief of the SIU, said the Broward County Attorneys Office declined to investigate because the person wasnt interested in filing charges. The attorneys office recommended the Florida Commission on Ethics take it up instead.

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Batista said the second incident involved Fam touching an 18-year-old student while taking a photo at an awards banquet in Davie on March 27. The student told a district employee they felt embarrassed about it, Batista said. Batista told the employee to report the incident to the Florida Department of Children and Families, but the department declined to look into it since the student wasnt a minor. Batista recommended the Florida Commission on Ethics review it.

Vickie Cartwright delivers her resignation speech during a Broward County School Board meeting discussing her severance package and an interim superintendent on Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2023, in downtown Fort Lauderdale.

Smiley told the students principal to ask the student to prepare a statement about what happened. Although Smiley had considered that a complaint, it wasnt an official one, Batista said. But, she added, that doesnt mean that the allegation shouldnt be investigated. Smiley had previously said a police report had been filed, but Batista said no police report exists.

Even in the absence of a formal complaint, there are certain protections that students and employees possess, Batista said.

On April 11, the Florida Commission on Ethics took on both cases, Batista said.

The right conclusion occurred

Batista recommended the board drop the outside investigation of the two board members, as the issue had already been referred to the Florida Commission on Ethics.

She also recommended all board members undergo awareness training and the board establish a new policy for dealing with board members misconduct.

Board Member Torey Alston proposed the motion Tuesday in the interest of protecting the organization and allowing folks to do what theyre good at and to preserve taxpayer dollars.

The school board should not be involved in this case, Alston said. It should go to an independent neutral third party to determine if there is merit.

READ MORE: Broward School Board postpones investigating two members accused of inappropriate touching

Zeman attended the Tuesday meeting but didnt comment or vote because state law requires him to recuse himself. He didnt respond to a request for comment.

Fam didnt attend the meeting because shes out sick; she directed all requests for comment to her attorney, David Bogenschutz. He said he believes the right conclusion occurred.

Ms. Batista was a voice of reason in this, and I think that she managed to shepherd the correct result today, he said Tuesday after the meeting. Im relatively comfortable with the process now that were on the COE level.

Some members of the public questioned Tuesday whether the school district would foot attorney bills involving these cases with Fam and Zeman.

John Sullivan, a school district spokesman, said that at this point, theres no basis for the district to pay for these costs.

Bogenschutz said that up until now, he doesnt think he will charge anything to anybody.

What will the ethics commission do?

Lynn Blais, a spokeswoman for the Florida Commission on Ethics, wrote in an email to the Herald Tuesday that she couldnt comment on any complaints against Zeman or Fam.

I have confirmed as of today I have no public record of a complaint filed against Allen Zeman or Brenda Fam, so I can neither confirm nor deny the existence of any complaint filed against either of them, she wrote.

A complaint received in the state ethics office, as well as all proceedings and records relating to it, are confidential and exempt from the public records law until the complaint reaches a stage in the commissions proceedings where it becomes public. Usually cases become public when the commission finds a complaint to be insufficient and dismisses it, or when the commission finds probable cause an ethics violation occurred and chooses to investigate it.

READ MORE: Two Broward School Board members face touching allegations; chair calls for investigation

If the commission does investigate and if it finds any violations of state law, possible penalties for public officers could include one or more of the following: impeachment, removal from office, suspension, public censure and reprimand, forfeiture of no more than one-third of his or her salary per month for no more than 12 months, a civil penalty not to exceed $10,000 for each violation, and restitution. The list includes no criminal penalties.

However, the commission has no power to impose its recommended penalties, so if the commission were to conclude that a violation had been committed, it would issue a public report of its findings and may recommend one or more penalties to the appropriate disciplinary body or official, Blais said.
The awards ceremony of the 2022 "Tell China's Stories" video contest was held in Weihai, eastern China's Shandong province, on Thursday, gathering more than 200 representatives. The event was jointly hosted by China International Communications Group (CICG) and the Information Office of the People's Government of Shandong Province.



The awards ceremony of the 2022 "Tell China's Stories" contest is held in Weihai, Shandong province, on April 13, 2023. [Photo/CICG]



Gao Anming, vice president of China International Communications Group (CICG), speaks at the awards ceremony of the 2022 "Tell China's Stories" contest in Weihai, Shandong province, on April 13, 2023. [Photo/CICG]



In his speech delivered at the event, Gao Anming, vice president of CICG, suggested telling touching and compelling China stories from the perspective of ordinary people. He said that he looks forward to seeing more China stories related to the Chinese path to modernization, the Global Civilization Initiative, the Belt and Road Initiative, and China's opportunities.

As a coastal province with high-level openness, Shandong boasts unique advantages in presenting compelling China stories, said Sun Yingzhuo, deputy director of the Information Office of the People's Government of Shandong Province.

Sun Yingzhuo, deputy director of the Information Office of the People's Government of Shandong Province, speaks at the awards ceremony of the 2022 "Tell China's Stories" contest in Weihai, Shandong province, on April 13, 2023. [Photo/CICG]



Over 450 video projects were submitted to the sub-contest in Shandong province, with nine of them winning national awards and one receiving a special award, Sun added.

Wang Xiaohui, editor-in-chief of China Internet Information Center under CICG, which co-organized the event, gave high praise to the contest during his speech. Wang said the contest has achieved noticeable progress in the aspects such as scale, quality of projects, and influence.

Wang Xiaohui, editor-in-chief of China Internet Information Center under CICG, speaks at the awards ceremony of the 2022 "Tell China's Stories" contest in Weihai, Shandong province, on April 13, 2023. [Photo/CICG]



Yan Jianbo, secretary of the Communist Party of China Weihai Municipal Committee, said Weihai has many inspiring stories of happiness, sustainable development, reform and opening-up, and entrepreneurship and innovation. Yan noted that the city will leverage this event as an opportunity to further pursue reform, innovation, and progress, and share more compelling stories with the world.

Yan Jianbo, secretary of the Communist Party of China Weihai Municipal Committee, speaks at the awards ceremony of the 2022 "Tell China's Stories" contest in Weihai, Shandong province, on April 13, 2023. [Photo by Li Kang/China.org.cn]

The contest has closely collaborated with domestic and overseas media platforms, reaching over 500 million audiences from around the world.

Representatives of the award winners were invited to share their behind-the-scene stories at the event as well.

The Weihai Collaborative Innovation Center was unveiled at the event. The center aims to explore a mode of international communication suited to Weihai and improve the global appeal and influence of the city.

The Weihai Collaborative Innovation Center is launched at the awards ceremony of the 2022 "Tell China's Stories" contest in Weihai, Shandong province, on April 13, 2023. [Photo/CICG]



According to the organizers, the 2023 contest will be launched in Wenzhou, eastern China's Zhejiang province.
BTS star J-Hope was set to start his mandatory South Korean military service on Tuesday, local media reported, becoming the K-pop juggernaut's second member to enlist, prompting an outpouring of well-wishes from fans.

The septet has become a global cultural phenomenon, selling out stadiums around the world and dominating key US charts while raking in billions for South Korea's economy and building an international legion of fans known as ARMY.

But all able-bodied men in South Korea must serve at least 18 months in the military, and after a years-long debate about whether BTS deserved an exemption, Jin, the oldest member of the group, enlisted in December.

J-Hope -- whose full name is Jung Ho-seok -- was set to begin his five-week basic training at an army boot camp in Gangwon province on Tuesday, Yonhap News Agency reported.

The 29-year-old posted pictures of himself on Weverse late Monday, with his newly shorn, military-approved buzzcut.

"I love you, ARMY. I'll go and come back safely!" he said.

The post attracted thousands of comments from fans, with many expressing sorrow over the group's ongoing hiatus.

"Be careful and stay healthy. ARMY will do its best to stay positive by streaming and supporting the things you love and enjoy! Say hi to Jin for us, please? We will miss you so much!" one wrote.

"It suits you so well," another wrote of J-Hope's buzzcut. "With much respect, I salute you. For your loyalty, honour, and sense of duty to serve your country."

Band member Jin, who is currently serving in the military, left the comment "D-1" on one of J-Hope's Weverse posts on Monday -- a nod to the fact he had one day left before enlistment.

The septet's agency HYBE had confirmed on April 1 that J-Hope would be enlisting, but did not disclose details "to prevent any issues that might occur from crowding".

"Please note that there will be no official event on the day of his entry," the agency said at the time.

"The entrance ceremony is a time to be observed by military personnel and their families only... Fans are advised to refrain from visiting the site."

cdl/ceb/smw
Another Buc-ees along Interstate 35 in Texas is getting a Buc-ees-sized car wash tunnel, according to business records filed with the state last week.

Back in December, the Star-Telegram reported that the Buc-ees on Interstate 35W in far north Fort Worth is getting a car wash this summer, which would be the sixth Buc-ees in Texas where you can shine your wheels while chomping on a bag of Beaver Nuggets or beef jerky.

Now the company plans to build a $6 million car wash at the Buc-ees in Temple, about 30 miles south of Waco. The construction starts May 1 , and the 5,700-square-foot car wash should be ready to by October.

Buc-ees, which boasts of having the cleanest restrooms in America, claims that its car wash at its Katy store, built in 2017, holds the world record for being the longest.

Meanwhile, a new Buc-ees is planned for Hillsboro, along Interstate 35 roughly between Fort Worth and Waco, in 2024. The new store will be along I-35 and US 77, about 40 minutes south of Fort Worth and roughly halfway to Waco. It will bring at least 200 jobs. When the company registered the project with the state last summer, it estimated construction would finish in October 2023.
A California dermatologist appeared in court Tuesday on charges she poisoned her radiologist husband with Drano-spiked tea  but her attorney said the man's injuries are actually from acid reflux.

Dr. Yue "Emily" Yu was in Orange County Superior Court for her arraignment on three felony counts of poisoning and one felony count of domestic battery with corporal injury  but her attorneys were granted a postponement until May 18 to review evidence.

After the brief proceeding, Yu's lawyer, Scott Simmons, told reporters that Jack Chen hadn't consumed Drano but suffers from the common condition gastroesophageal reflux disease, also known as GERD, which can be caused by eating fried foods.

"As you know Drano is a caustic substance. You'd have severe injuries," he said. "His injuries are consistent with a benign condition called GERD or acid reflux."

CALIFORNIA DERMATOLOGIST ACCUSED OF POISONING HUSBAND'S TEA INDICTED

An indictment against the Newport Beach dermatologist was announced April 5  about eight months after she was initially arrested and released on $30,000 bond.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

Simmons told Fox News Digital that Chen had set up Yu, 45, to gain an upper hand in their bitter divorce and custody battle over their two young children.

"They had a big ant problem in the kitchen. Jack Chen tells her to put the Drano into this lemonade or tea in order to bait and kill the ants," Simmons said. "He then sets up what he calls spy cameras to capture her pouring the Drano into the cup then falsely accuse sher of trying to poison him."

In a series of screengrabs from home surveillance video, Dr. Jack Chen sips from a drink he alleges that his estranged wife, Emily Yu, inset, poisoned with Drano.

He added, "The so-called smoking gun of the video is not a smoking gun at all."

Chen first made the poisoning accusations in August in a request for a restraining order against his wife in family court. He filed for divorce and sole custody of their children the same day.

CALIFORNIA DERMATOLOGIST ARRESTED AFTER HUSBAND SHARED COMPELLING' VIDEO OF HER POISONING HIM, POLICE SAY

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He said he became suspicious in early April 2022 when he noticed his tea and lemonade tasted strange and began feeling seriously ill. He developed two stomach ulcers, gastritis and inflammation in his esophagus, according to the filing.

Dr. Yue Yu seen in a screengrab from video opening a red bottle in the kitchen.

He installed three hidden cameras in the family's Irvine kitchen, which allegedly captured Yu on July 11, 18 and 25 grabbing a bottle of Drano from under the sink and dumping it in his drinks.

Screen grabs of the footage included in the restraining order application show Yu picking up a large red plastic bottle and pouring its contents into a cup. Another photo shows Chen drinking from the contaminated cup.

Chen's attorney Steve Hittleman, who didn't return a request for comment, told The New York Post that his client has full custody of their children and Yu has visitation rights.

In family court documents, Chen accused Yu and her mother of emotional and verbal abuse against him and his children.

Yu faces up to eight years in prison if convicted, according to the Orange County Disrict Attorney's Office.
California has five of the top state parks in the nation for explorers, according to Yelp.

Yelp released the 50 U.S. state parks everyone should visit in their lifetime on April 10, in time for summer traveling.

State parks in Santa Cruz, Los Osos, Felton, Borrego Springs and Big Sur made the list. These spots include ocean views, sandy beaches, blooming wildflowers and trails through old-growth redwood trees.

To find the best state parks in the U.S., Yelp identified businesses in the parks category that had a large number of views that mentioned state parks.

Then these parks were ranked on a few factors, including the total volume and ratings of reviews.

Wilder Ranch State Park  Santa Cruz

At No. 4, Wilder Ranch State Park in Santa Cruz is a favorite among photographers, hikers or those just looking for a stroll in nature, according to Yelp reviewers.

The park has over 35 miles in trails to wander  some with ocean bluff views, hills and towering redwood trees.

There are spectacular picture-perfect ocean vistas of massive cliffs carved by centuries of wave action, one Yelp reviewer wrote about the Ohlone Bluff Trail.

This trail eventually leads to the Fern Grotto Beach, where hikers can try to catch a glimpse of sun-bathing seals, pelicans, dolphins and whales.

The park also has a historic dairy ranch with buildings from the 1800s that can be toured, including a Victorian home from 1897.

Montana de Oro State Park  Los Osos

Montana de Oro State Park in Los Osos ranked No. 9 among the top state parks.

Parkgoers can take a scenic walk along the coast, or choose to wander the many other miles of well-maintained paths, Yelp reviewers said.

The park also has sandy beaches, like Spooners Cove that has rocky formations, tide pools and a campsite nearby.

After setting up camp, walk on over to Spooners Cove and climb on the rocks and admire the view of serene waves splashing against the cliff, another reviewer said.

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Los Osos is about 15 miles west of San Luis Obispo.

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park  Felton

This state park in the Santa Cruz Mountains has 40 acres of old-growth redwoods, and its absolutely stunning and breathtaking.

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park was ranked No. 12 on the Yelp list.

Its a great place for California travelers to spot massive redwood trees without having to drive as far north as Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park.

One of the largest trees in the redwood grove is about 277 feet tall and about 1,500 years old.

Visitors can wander through the grove, camp, hike, picnic or look for banana slugs.

Its easy to get lost in the forest, but its lovely being among the massive redwood trees and walking along the river, one reviewer said.

Felton is about 30 miles south of San Jose.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park  Borrego Springs

This Borrego Springs spot ranked No. 22 among the best state parks, according to Yelp.

With so many natural wonders, things to explore, to see and do, Anza-Barrego Desert State Park is a must visit if you are in the Southern California area! one Yelp reviewer said.

The state park is known for its blooming wildflowers, rugged terrain and hiking trails filled with canyons, ridges and peaks.

Spring is a great time to visit, when wild flowers may be in bloom, but winter and fall are beautiful, too, and often cooler, another reviewer said.

Visitors can also enjoy the massive metal sculptures that dot the desert in Borrego Springs along the S-3 highway near the state park. A traveler might see an African elephant, a giant tortoise, a dragon, raptors or other dinosaurs.

There are 130 sculptures created by artist Ricardo Breceda.

You can get a map from the rangers and pretty much off road to see (the sculptures). It felt like Jurassic park driving to each one, one reviewer said.

Borrego Springs is about 85 miles northeast of San Diego.

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park  Big Sur

A popular spot for beachgoers, hikers and campers in Big Sur also landed a spot on Yelps list of best state parks in the country.

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park ranked No. 45. This park is in the Santa Lucia Mountains, near the coastline and above Big Sur River Gorge.

Big Sur River runs through the park, which allows campers to set up along the water. Travelers visiting for just the day can also wander along the riverbank among the redwoods, conifers and oak trees.

And there are plenty of trails for hiking, including one leading to a 60-foot waterfall called Pfeiffer Falls.

Loved how being on these trails made me feel like I was so far away from the beach and into a whole other world, one Yelp reviewer wrote.

But the ocean isnt too far. Pfeiffer Beach is about a mile south from the state parks entrance.

The best campsites in the country? Three are in California, Yelp says

Best BBQ spot in California? This family-run restaurant is No. 1 in state, Yelp says

This food truck has the best burrito in California, Yelp says. Heres why fans love it
CAMBRIDGE  The Guernsey County Anna Asbury Stone Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) will celebrate its 100 anniversary this month.

The DAR is a volunteer women's service organization that honors and preserves the legacy of American patriot ancestors. The DAR recognizes patriots not only as soldiers but as anyone who contributed to the cause of American freedom.

The Anna Asbury Stone Chapter of the National Daughters of the American Revolution will celebrate 100 years of service on Saturday.

The group was founded on Oct. 11, 1890, during a time that was marked by a revival in patriotism and interest in the beginnings of the United States of America. Women were typically excluded from men's organizations like the Sons of the American Revolution, which perpetuated the memory of those who fought for independence. A group of women in the nation's capital formed their own organization and the DAR has carried the torch of patriotism ever since, with its motto of God, home and country.

The Anna Asbury Stone Chapter was formed on May 18, 1923, in Cambridge. The organizing Regent was Mary Augusta Stone. Twenty-three members signed the official papers on a table made by Samuel Bassett of Keene, New Hampshire, a revolutionary-era ancestor of Stone. Anna Asbury Stone, who was the great-great-grandmother of Mary Stone, rode on her horse, Nellie, loaded with all the provisions she could carry, for 200 miles in the dead of winter to Valley Forge where her husband and three brothers were wintered. The chapter unanimously chose the name Anna Asbury Stone for its title.

The chapter will celebrate its 100th anniversary on Saturday with a luncheon at the Cambridge Country Club. Ohio State Regent Susan Leininger and Vice State Regent Christina Nehring will be in attendance. Historic papers and archives will be on display and a slide show has been created by Sheila Ellenberger. Two awards are scheduled to be given.

Stephen Gaydos, a senior at Caldwell High School, will receive the Outstanding American History citation for his interest in Revolutionary War history and his volunteer efforts at the Noble County Historical Society. He is the son of John and Tammy Gaydos of Caldwell.

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The second award is the Women in American History citation and it will be awarded to Tracy Lawson. Lawson is the sixth great-granddaughter of Anna Asbury Stone and a member of the chapter. Her book "Answering Liberty's Call" tells of how Anna Stone delivered the supplies and a message to General George Washington. She will be a featured speaker at the luncheon.

The group meets the first Wednesday of the month at Theo's Restaurant in Cambridge, with the exception of January and July. Any interested women can attend. Any woman 18 years or older who can prove a lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution is eligible for membership. For more information about the DAR can be found on the chapter's website or by email emailing Sharon Miller at wildflower55741@gmail.com.

Submitted by Sharon Miller with the Anna Asbury Stone Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution

This article originally appeared on The Daily Jeffersonian: Cambridge Chapter of the DAR to celebrate 100 years
Queen Camilla was reportedly left hurt over being labelled the villain by Prince Harry in his memoir, a source has suggested.

In Spare, which was released in January, Prince Harry claimed that his stepmother leaked stories about the royal family to the media to bolster her image.

I have complex feelings about gaining a step-parent who I thought had recently sacrificed me on her personal PR altar, he wrote.

He says meeting Camilla  referred to as the Other Woman in his book  was like an injection, writing: Close your eyes and you wont even feel it.

Harry continued: I remember wondering... if she would be cruel to me; if she would be like all the evil stepmothers in the stories.

Then, during ITVs Harry: The Interview, the Duke of Sussex claimed stories began to be leaked after both he and his brother begged Charles not to marry Camilla.

In a new interview, sources close to the Queen have been reflecting on her journey ahead of her coronation.

Of course it bothers her, of course it hurts. But she doesnt let it get to her, Fiona Petty-Fitzmaurice, Marchioness of Lansdowne, told The Sunday Times of Camillas reaction to the memoir.

Charles and Camilla married in 2005 but they have been linked since the Seventies (Getty Images)

Ms Petty-Fitzmaurice is one of the Queens six companions and is married to Charles, 9th Marquess of Lansdowne.

It comes as Buckingham Palace has announced that Prince Harry will be attending the coronation on 6 May, without his wife Meghan Markle, who will stay at home with their children in California.

King Charles is reportedly using the coronation as an opportunity to mend family divisions, reports have claimed.

This includes bringing the disgraced Prince Andrew, the Duke of York in from the cold after reports claim that he was asked to leave his Windsor residence Royal Lodge.

A source told PageSix: Relations between the King and his brother have never been this bad. It has turned into a real battle which he never expected and its left him tired and infuriated.

Meanwhile, The Independent has learnt that the Duchess of York has not been invited to the coronation.

The Independent has contacted Buckingham Palace for comment.
Iran's sentencing of 10 alleged perpetrators in the downing of a Ukrainian airliner was criticised Tuesday by Canada and other countries whose citizens were aboard the flight, saying the "sham trials" lacked impartiality and transparency.

Iranian forces shot down Ukraine International Airlines flight PS752 shortly after its takeoff from Tehran on January 8, 2020, killing all 176 people on board. Most were Iranians and Canadians, including many dual nationals.

Tehran on Sunday sentenced 10 members of the armed forces, including a commander, to prison after finding them guilty of involvement in the plane's downing.

But in a joint statement, a coordination group representing Canada, Sweden, the UK and Ukraine said the verdicts "must not distract the world from Iran's failure to meet its international obligations and take responsibility for its actions".

"Neither the trials nor the verdicts announced this week brings truth or justice to the families of the victims, as the entire process -- starting with Iran's biased investigation into the downing -- lacked the necessary impartiality and transparency," it added.

The statement noted that the families of the 176 victims were "still waiting for the justice they deserve".

"We continue to stand in solidarity with the families and loved ones of the victims of the downing of Flight PS752 and will not rest until justice has been served," it concluded.

Three days after the Kyiv-bound plane was shot down, the Iranian armed forces admitted there had been a "mistake".

Tensions between Iran and the United States had been soaring at the time the airliner was shot down.

The Iranian judiciary's Mizan Online website reported Sunday that the commander received the heaviest penalty of 10 years in prison for having defied orders in shooting down the plane.

Nine other personnel were sentenced to between one and three years, it reported.

The commander of a Tor-M1 surface-to-air missile system "fired two missiles" at the airliner "contrary to orders" and without obtaining authorisation, Mizan said.

Story continues

It did not identify any of the accused.

"Given the extent of the effects and consequences of this action, the main defendant was sentenced to the maximum penalty," Mizan Online added, without giving further details.

jj/phz/giv
The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) announced it will quit posting content on Elon Musk-owned Twitter, joining other U.S.-based media outlets.

Our journalism is impartial and independent. To suggest otherwise is untrue. That is why we are pausing our activities on @Twitter, CBC wrote in a tweet on Monday.

Twitter hit CBC, along with other media outlets receiving some public funding, with a government-funded label on its account, which amassed more than 32,000 followers.

According to Twitter policy, government-funded media is defined as outlets where the government provides some or all of the outlets funding and may have varying degrees of government involvement over editorial content.

Twitters own policy defines government-funded media as cases where the government may have varying degrees of government involvement over editorial content, which is clearly not the case with CBC/Radio-Canada, CBC said in a Twitter thread in response to the social media platforms recent labeling of their account.

CBC/Radio-Canada is publicly funded through a parliamentary appropriation that is voted upon by all Members of Parliament. Its editorial independence is protected in law in the Broadcasting Act, as we said in our statement from last week, CBC added.

CBC followed other media outlets, such as PBS and NPR, who have called it quits on using Twitter after Musk slapped government-funded and state-affiliated media labels on their accounts.

NPR was the first to announce its decision last week, saying it would let its Twitter accounts go dormant and no longer post on the social media platform in response to Twitter adding a state-affiliated media label to a number of media outlets that receive some public funding.

Twitter then dropped the state-affiliated label and changed it to say government funded, after receiving widespread pushback from the decision. In a statement, White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre said that NPR is an independent news organization, saying If anyone were to follow their coverage, it is clear that they are indeed an independent news organization.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Leopard tank is loaded on board the plane

The photos showing the tanks being transported aboard a Boeing C-17 military transport aircraft appeared on Facebook on April 17.

www.facebook.com/CanadianForces

On April 11, 2023, Leopard 2 tanks were loaded and transported to southwest Poland from a Royal Canadian Air Force CC-177 Globemaster III as part the Operation UNIFIER (program), the report says.

Read also: Ukraine to get Russian An-124 cargo aircraft confiscated by Canada

www.facebook.com/CanadianForces

Canada has now delivered eight tanks as part of military aid to Ukraine.

Read also: Canada slaps new sanctions on Russian, Belarusian entities, including ones linked to Wagner mercenaries

www.facebook.com/CanadianForces

www.facebook.com/CanadianForces

Nine countries will transfer more than 150 Leopard tanks to Ukraine as part of a tank coalition, said U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin on March 15. He added that the coalition continues to grow.

Read also: Canada imposes more sanctions on Iranian drone and missile manufactures

www.facebook.com/CanadianForces

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that Ukraine needs between 300-500 tanks to launch a counteroffensive.

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
Although 420 isnt until Thursday, one cannabis company decided to celebrate early in a truly sweet way.

Zen Cannabis, which operates in California, Massachusetts, Missouri and Oklahoma, has spent the last four months working on a truly dope project: Creating what it believes is the worlds largest cannabis chocolate bar.

The so-called Big Zen bar weighs 420 pounds  of course!  and measures a whopping 9 feet by 4 feet and is three inches thick.

But whats really sweet is the amount of cannabis in the colossal candy bar: 4.2 million milligrams of THC, much larger than the typical 10-milligram dose.

The asking price? A measly $42,000.

The giant bar was made at the companys offices in Oklahoma City, according to CEO Jeremy Zachary.

We wanted to do something that hasnt been done before, and Oklahomas the only state we could do it because its the only one with no limit on milligrams, he told HuffPost.

Zachary estimates 100 pounds of cannabis flower were used to make the five liters of cannabis oil used in the bar.

We needed a custom mold, and that took a month to make, he said, adding that the company also needed a custom table to hold the finished product and a custom cooling chamber.

It took four pours to get the whole bar right, he added.

Zen Cannabis employee Shane Ferrante poured the chocolate for a 420-pound chocolate bar that contains 4,200,000 mg of THC.

Zen Cannabis employee Shane Ferrante poured the chocolate for a 420-pound chocolate bar that contains 4,200,000 mg of THC.

Making the bar took about 24 hours, and another 18 hours for cooling.

The bar is currently at Zen Cannabis Oklahoma City offices, but Zachary said there are no plans to put it on display like the worlds largest ball of twine.

This is for serious buyers only, he said. And start with small bites.
The young representatives and Chinese volunteers pose for a photo at the Great Wall on April 17. [Photo by Liu Caiyi/China.org.cn]

The 7th China-Africa Youth Festival commenced on Monday in Beijing, bringing together 54 young representatives from across Africa.

The event was organized in accordance with the consensus reached by leaders of China and African countries at the Johannesburg Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation in 2015. It aims to promote exchanges between Chinese and African youth, continue the traditional friendship between China and Africa, and cultivate a new generation of young individuals who will contribute to the China-Africa relationship.

Fang Xinwen, deputy director of the International Cooperation and Exchange Department of the China Soong Ching Ling Foundation, stated that since its inception in 2016, the event has been successfully held six times, playing an important role in enhancing mutual understanding and friendship between Chinese and African youth.

In the morning, the young representatives toured the historical displays and courtyard at the Former Residence of Soong Ching Ling, immersing themselves in the vivid presentation of the life and deeds of this great statesman and patriot.

"Soong's selfless and humanitarian spirit is a shared legacy for people in China and beyond," said Francis George Woodcock, a youth representative from Seychelles, adding, "and China's long history and culture fascinate me."

The young representatives visited the Great Wall in the afternoon to experience China's magnificent scenery.

Tarek El Khouly, vice-chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Egyptian House of Representatives, said, "China is a wonderful country and this is the fourth time I have climbed the Great Wall. Every time I come to the Great Wall, it makes me think of the amazing builders. I think many advanced technologies and development models from China can be introduced to Egypt. I hope there will be more exchange activities between China and Egypt. In my opinion, China has not only a long history but also a wonderful present, and I believe that in the future, China will remain one of the best countries in the world."

The 7th China-Africa Youth Festival will run from April 16 to 23. During the eight-day festival, the representatives will visit enterprises and tourist attractions in Beijing and Shandong province in east China and communicate with Chinese youth delegates. The event is hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China, the China Soong Ching Ling Foundation and Shandong Provincial People's Government. Through field trips and mutual exchanges, the participants are expected to gain a deeper understanding of China and contribute to strengthening China-Africa friendship and cooperation.
State police say a Canonsburg man was driving under the influence when he drove the wrong way and crashed into a tractor-trailer on Interstate 279 in March.

Jacob Alauzen, 27, was traveling north in the southbound lanes in Ohio Township near the Camp Horne Road Exit around 2:30 a.m. on March 24, according to a state police report. His vehicle hit a tractor-trailer head-on, then went into the median.

No one was injured.

In addition to DUI and other traffic violations, Alauzen is charged with reckless driving and careless driving.

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A federal court Tuesday handed down guilty verdicts for the Nashville man best known as zip-tie guy and his mother for the pairs role in the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol.

Eric Munchel, who infamously brandished zip ties as he walked the inside of the Capitol during the riot, and his mother Lisa Eisenhart, of Woodstock, Georgia, were found guilty on all charges in a D.C. District Court Tuesday.

The pair are scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 8.

Originally charged mainly with trespassing charges, the charges against Munchel and Eisenhart expanded in October to include obstruction, conspiracy, disorderly conduct and unauthorized entry. Munchel was found guilty of additional charges for carrying a deadly or dangerous weapon on Capitol grounds because he was armed with a Taser, court records say.

Protesters enter the Senate Chamber at the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021 in Washington, DC. Congress held a joint session to ratify President-elect Joe Biden's 306-232 Electoral College win over President Donald Trump. Trump supporters entered the U.S. Capitol building after mass demonstrations in the nation's capital.

Both Munchel and Eisenhart waived their right to a jury trial and instead agreed to a stipulated bench trial, meaning a shortened trial before a judge based on an agreed set of facts.

"We negotiated a stipulated set of facts with the government. Those facts included his actions from Jan. 6, and those facts were submitted to the court this morning," said Munchel's attorney Joseph Allen of Branson, Missouri. "He ... agreed to do that in the interest of accepting responsibility for his actions on Jan. 6."

On Jan. 4, 2021, Munchel and Eisenhart traveled from Nashville, where Munchel worked as a bartender, to D.C. to participate in election protest rallies scheduled for Jan. 5-6. according to court records.

Munchel and Eisenhart arrived at the Capitol on Jan. 6 donning tactical vests, and Munchel had a Taser holstered at his hip and his cell phone mounted on his chest. Munchels cell phone recorded a 50-minute video that captured most of the pairs approach and entry to the Capitol building, prosecutors said.

Once inside, Munchel spotted and picked up the zip-ties that he became known for, and he was photographed carrying them as he stepped over seats in the Senate chamber.

Story continues

Eisenhart later told a reporter for the London Times that this country was founded on revolution and said shed rather die as a 57-year-old woman than live under oppression.

Eisenharts attorney said the judge allowed the mother and son to remain on release after Tuesdays trial and before sentencing. Her attorney declined to comment for this story.

In all, more than two dozen people with Tennessee connections have been arrested in connection with the Capitol Hill riot. Many of them have been sentenced to jail time or fines.

More: From fines to jail time: Tennesseans sentenced in two years since Jan. 6 insurrection

Evan Mealins is the justice reporter for The Tennessean. Contact him at emealins@gannett.com or follow him on Twitter @EvanMealins.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Jan. 6 Capitol riot: Nashville's 'zip-tie guy' guilty on all charges
One of the most important documents found at Busch Stadium on any given night during the baseball season is double-sided, printed on cardstock, and somewhere between the size of a half sheet of letter-sized paper and a standard issue index card.

On each side is a color-coded grid that moves backward a week in time, tracking the usage of relief pitchers  when they threw, how many pitches, how many times they warmed up, and the stress of the situations in which they were called upon.

The card is the Rosetta Stone that maps the language of the end of a game. Paired with a spin through the clubhouse and a few furtive conversations, it can sometimes even read the future.

Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol often has his sitting on his desk when he meets with the media before games, and on Monday evening, he held it up and spun it in a circle.

Thats theirs, he said, referring to the Arizona Diamondbacks, whose side of the card was largely covered in white blanks. Green is the color which coincides with spaces in which a pitcher was used in game action.

Ours looks like a beautiful Christmas tree, he said of the Cardinals side, flooded with green and studded with yellow notations covering the frequency of warm ups.

It has not, to date, been a holly, jolly holiday season.

Divination of the card would help explain why Andre Pallante  out of action for four days earlier this week  was called upon Monday night with two on and no one out in the seventh inning and the Cardinals trailing by one run. Pallante did indeed throw 22 pitches in Sundays action and was working on back-to-back days, but those four days ahead of time gave him lots of rest in the run-up.

He also threw 22 pitches Monday, including a four-pitch walk to Corbin Carroll  Carrolls first walk of the season  and a grand slam allowed to Pavin Smith which effectively ended any hope of a comeback in what would become a 6-3 loss.

Zack Thompson, yet to allow a run this season, also entered Sundays game and threw only seven pitches. In doing so, though, he spread those pitches over an inning and a third; a two up in the parlance of the bullpen, meaning he twice had to warm up with a break in between, rather than simply getting loose, getting outs, and ending his day.

Story continues

And Thompson also had a multi-inning appearance Friday while throwing 31 pitches in game action, which would have made Monday his third appearance in four days, intensifying the impact of his workload. Pallante, who said after Mondays game that he was ready to perform today, had more recent and extensive rest.

The bullpen is managed both backward and forward, and as strong as the temptation can be to simply throw the best pitchers whose arms are currently functional, the Cardinals find themselves compelled to take a much longer-term view.

If you look at a lot of the injuries (among pitchers), it happens in April or early May, Marmol said. Do I need them going four out of six days this early? Not ideally. Its looking at how they got to that fourth out of the sixth day.

St. Louis Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol is trying to navigate a bullpen that continues to struggle. Most recently, the bullpen contributed directly to a 6-3 loss to Arizona on Monday night.

More about bullpen woes

The weekends action, especially Saturdays extra innings loss to Pittsburgh, was ultimately the culmination of a string of usage that, by Marmols reckoning, has had the Cardinals without the full complement of their active bullpen pitchers in every game in the early going.

Pallantes soreness which precipitated his days off came on the heels of Jordan Hicks fighting through a viral infection during the teams trip to Colorado. Hicks, in his first night available after recovering, walked two of the three hitters he faced and allowed an inherited runner to score. Saturday, with Drew VerHagen unavailable due to workload, it was Hicks again called upon in extra innings, and his disastrous performance left him, from the teams perspective, unable to be used in games that might still be winnable, or even competitive.

And yet Hicks is unable to be sent to the minors due to his accrued service time, leaving the Cardinals to scramble for settings they cant afford to script in order to work with him to return to a passable form. A bullpen of eight is thus in all practicality permanently reduced to seven before workload is even factored in.

Its just part of it

There are few fan traditions that have been around longer than second guessing the choices a manager makes in deploying his relievers. Marmol, like everyone else who has held his job, is not above criticism, and from time to time will make mistakes. Some of those mistakes, though, come from imperfect options. And the data that informs those options is often far from public  even as it resides in plain view on a card which sits on a small platform in front of his seat in the dugout.

Its just part of it, Marmol said. Were going to have to figure out how to navigate it. That parts not going to change.

Thursdays off day, at least, will change the background color on a few squares. Thats a navigational beacon that should provide relief.
The case of a 60-year-old Burrillville man accused of storing an AR-15 ghost gun on the grounds of Rhode Island's state hospital has moved to Superior Court in Providence.

After a review, prosecutors are charging Kenneth Fullam with a single count of possession of a ghost gun.

The charge was filed April 4 in Superior Court.

Fullam, a carpenter, came under scrutiny late last year when he was working as a state employee on the Department of Administration's payroll. One of Fullam's coworkers complained to state officials on Oct. 19 that another worker was storing a gun in a building on the Zambarano campus of Eleanor Slater Hospital in Burrillville, according to a state police affidavit.

The reported storage had been in a "non-hospital building" across the street from the hospital, according to an email sent to hospital employees.

State police later referred to the structure as the hospital's motor-pool building.

On Nov. 21, state police went to the building and met with hospital administrators who told them an employee had a gun in his locker on the grounds of the hospital, a spokesman for Attorney General Peter F. Neronha, Brian Hodge, said Tuesday in a news release.

A search led troopers to a metal wall locker on the second floor, Hodge said. There, Fullam opened the locker for them. The police then took out an AR-15 rifle.

The gun, he said, had no serial number or other identification markings. Police also seized two boxes of spent shell casings and one box of reloadable projectiles, the release said.

Fullam was released late last year after his initial arrest and appearance in Providence District Court. His arraignment in Superior Court is scheduled for June 30.

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Burrillville man charged with keeping AR-15 ghost gun at Eleanor Slater.
Rising seas and increased flooding may have helped chase Viking colonists out of Greenland, a new study has found.

The study offers a new explanation to a medieval mystery: why Viking settlements on the doorstep of North America failed on the eve of European contact with the continents peoples.

In the new account, rising seas  pulled toward lowland settlements and harbors by the greater gravitational pull of growing ice sheets  pushed the colony to a tipping point,

lead author Marisa Borreggine of Harvard University told The Hill.

The study in Proceedings of the National Academy of Science adds additional color to a stark  and strikingly modern  story of a society struggling for generations to adapt in the face of complex environmental change.

In the case of Greenland, as along todays coastlines, that threat was the dual risk of devastating floods and the slow, implacable infiltration of crop-destroying saltwater, Borreggine found.

But unlike today, the cause of that sea level rise was global cooling, not planetary heating.

As the Little Ice Age dropped global temperatures and greater volumes of North Atlantic waters frozen into the great Greenland ice cap, intuition might suggest that sea level should go down, Borreggine said.

But that intuition fails in the face of the sheer size of the Greenland ice cap  which is so large that its gravity pulled the waters of the North Atlantic inward, causing localized sea level rise.

At the same time, the added weight of ice pushed down the Earths crust, causing Norse colonies to experience a double whammy of falling earth and invading oceans, Borreggine said.

That combination led to the ocean coming inland at two to six times the rate of 20th-century sea-level rise, the authors found.

Put another way, the sea-level rise was equivalent to that projected for later this century under some of the worst scenarios for climate change  ones in which global combustion of fossil fuels doesnt halt.

Story continues

Over the 400-year life of the colony, that translated to 3.3 meters, or about 10 feet, of sea level rise, the study found.

The combination of new modeling techniques and the discovery of ancient, drowned Norse buildings suggested a pervasive flooding problem, the researchers found.

Three-quarters of Viking settlements were within about half a mile of sites of severe flooding.

Like modern society, environmental stressors contributed to a broader set of challenges facing Norse settlers.

Environmental change does not exist in a vacuum, Borreggine said. Environmental changes are determined by policy choices and by the political systems that were subjected to  by capitalism, by racism, its affected by all these things.

When it comes to climate solutions, we have to acknowledge that its not going to just be about changing the environment: its going to be about changing our society, they added.

That element of human choice and adaptation had long been left out of the story of why the Greenland colony failed  a story that has often been cast as a parable of human failure to adapt to ecological change.

The fate of the islands Norse settlements is one of the great mysteries of North American anthropology  sometimes cast as an early version of lost colony tales like the disappearance of Roanoke from 16th Century North Carolina.

In the past, in popular works like Jared Diamonds Collapse, that story blamed the Norse colony on Greenland for completely failing to adapt to the environment, Borreggine said.

According to that account, as temperatures fell in the Little Ice Age, the Norse suffered from a fatal conservatism in the face of fluctuating resources, according to a pivotal 1980 paper.

This account, however, starkly contrasts the size, longevity and flexibility of the larger Viking colonization project  which seeded long-lived settlements and states from Ireland and Iceland to the river valleys of what became Russia.

The Greenland colonies alone lasted from 1000 to about 1450 AD: about as long as the period between the present day and the earliest English settlements in America.

Over the past decade, new research has offered a haunting correction to the old story of a fatal Norse resistance to change.

Instead, new archeological finds suggest that for centuries the Greenland Norse did adapt to their new environment  borrowing cultural practices from their Inuit neighbors and rivals, like hunting seal, walrus and caribou.

But as the weather worsened, that adaptation ultimately wasnt enough to save them, as Science reported in a 2016 survey of the new findings.

The recent research outlined in Science suggests that the Norse colonys economic base was the sale of walrus ivory back to Europe, which a 2022 study found was sold as far east as Russia.

The worsening weather of the Little Ice Age closed sea passages back to Europe and disrupted the walrus ivory trade  dealing the failing colony another blow.

At the same time, competing sources of elephant ivory from Africa and walrus ivory from the former Norse states in Russia undercut the colonys economic foundation.

In addition, they faced rising conflict with the Inuit peoples, who like the Norse migrated across the icy islands of the North Atlantic across the centuries of the medieval period.

This created an environment in which crisis was all happening at once, every year, Christian Madsen of the Danish and Greenlandic National Museums in Copenhagen told Science.

Disruptions from falling temperatures could eventually have cascaded up through the system, Madsen said.

The PNAS paper suggests that the rapid sea level rise  magnified by land sinking beneath the weight of ice  was another factor pushing Norse colonies to adapt, retreat and finally flee, Borreggine said. (The idea that the colony left, rather than dying in place, remains controversial among scientists.)

Their timing was ironic: the last Norse settlement in Greenland was empty by 1450  about the same time other Europeans began exploiting North Americas bountiful, densely populated East Coast.

That is a coastline that the Greenland Norse had been the first Europeans to investigate, Borreggine pointed out. The mythical founder of Greenland was Eric the Red, who was exiled from Iceland for manslaughter  and whose son, Leif Ericson, established the short-lived colonies in Newfoundland in the generation after the founding of Greenland itself.

But though these colonies stood at a potentially profitable crossroads  at the western limit of an expanding world economy stretching from China to the Arctic circle, and just east of rich, powerful potential trading partners like the nations of North Americas eastern woodlands  they were never quite numerous or connected enough to close that link, a landmark 2011 study in PNAS found.

Their communities were too small, and too isolated to be able to capitalize on and compete in the new protoworld system extending into the North Atlantic in the early 15th century, the 2011 study found.

That failure made the Norse both the first Europeans to encounter North America  and the first to abandon it.

Instead, other powers filled that niche. Just as the Norse were abandoning Greenland, Basque fishermen from the French-Spanish border were already harvesting the rich cod banks of eastern Canada.

In the decades and centuries to come, a similar economic model  one based on the export of other high-value animal products, in this case furs  would form the economic basis of British, French and Dutch colonies in North America.

Their failure in the face of complex crises spurred by climate change echoes the challenge facing modern society, Borreggine said.

But there is one pivotal difference, while we can slow climate change, they were locked into it, they said. We arent completely doomed. Im definitely not a climate alarmist or a doomsdayer. The last takeaway that I want people to get from its that we are going to die just like the Vikings.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Armie Hammer arrives at the 34th Film Independent Spirit Awards in Santa Monica on Feb. 23, 2019. Jordan Strauss / Invision via AP

Prosecutors in Los Angeles are reviewing a case against Armie Hammer after police opened an investigation two years ago into allegations that he raped and sexually abused a woman in 2017.

Los Angeles County District Attorney spokesperson Tiffiny Blacknell declined to confirm the nature of the case under review but told BuzzFeed News in a statement Tuesday that the office takes "allegations of violence against women very seriously." In 2021, the Los Angeles Police Department said Hammer was the suspect in a sexual assault investigation.

"We can confirm that the LAPD has presented the LADA with a case against Armie Hammer," Blacknell said. "We will not confirm allegations or names of potential victims."

An attorney for Hammer did not immediately respond to BuzzFeed News' request for comment. The Call Me by Your Name actor has previously denied all allegations of sexual misconduct.

On Feb. 3, 2021, police began investigating allegations that Hammer raped and abused a woman after an anonymous Instagram account posted screenshots of direct messages allegedly sent by him, detailing graphic sexual fantasies, which included references to violence, rape, and cannibalism. In the wake of the scandal, Hammer quit multiple acting gigs, and his agency, WME, dropped him.

The investigation by police stemmed from allegations made by a woman, identified only as Effie, who said Hammer raped her over four hours on April 24, 2017. During the alleged assault, he repeatedly slammed her head into a wall, bruising her face, she told reporters during a virtual press conference with her attorney Gloria Allred in March 2021.

"I was completely in shock and couldnt believe someone I loved did that to me," said Effie, who met the actor on Facebook in 2016 when she was 20 years old. "I tried so hard to justify his actions, even to the point of responding to him in a way that did not reflect my true feelings."

Story continues

At the time, Andrew Brettler, an attorney for Hammer, denied Effie's allegations, saying in a statement that the actor's sexual encounters have all been completely consensual, discussed and agreed upon in advance and mutually participatory.

Hammer recently addressed the allegations in detail for the first time during an extensive interview with Air Mail, where he denied all the claims made against him but said he treated people more poorly than they should have been treated.

More on this
The Bank of England

While cash may no longer be king, its decline is not without risk.

There is no use pretending the world hasnt moved rapidly from cash to debit cards, contactless cards and Apple Pay. Yesterday, Sir Jon Cunliffe, the deputy governor of the Bank of England, told the Innovate Financial Global Summit that cash is likely to decline further and cash itself will become less useable in everyday transactions.

He is not wrong. The UK is already one of the most cash-light economies globally, only behind the Scandinavian countries. The Banks own forecasts show that by 2028 just 9 per cent of all payments will be made in physical cash. But simply because this is the inevitable direction of travel, policymakers should not necessarily embrace our shift towards becoming a cashless society. Nor should we should not be blind to the trade-offs or fail to acknowledge the risks. There is still a role for cash; its existence needs to be seen not just as a commercial issue, but as a key part of the UKs financial and social infrastructure.

People experiencing financial exclusion would be among the hardest hit were cash to disappear. Research conducted last year by the Royal Society of Arts found that approximately 10 million people would struggle to manage in a society without it. These people tend to be older, disabled or on very low incomes and are a group that are at greater risk of financial vulnerability. They also tend to be less confident with managing their finances online and are at greater risk of being defrauded. For people like this, cash is a necessity  a value tool to help them stick to limited budgets - and cannot be substituted. There is, too, a geographical element with the risk that rural and remote communities are particularly impacted by bank closures and the movement away from cash.

Added to this, the public has far more privacy and control using cash than with digital money. A cashless society means every single purchase has a digital fingerprint. While granular surveillance by institutions and companies can lead to an improved customer experience, which is more tailored to our specific tastes, it can also lead to overselling by corporations. More fundamentally, it does not respect the right to have our privacy, data and identity protected in financial matters. For many this is not a concern; many others may consider it a battle already lost. But it remains a consequence that should be considered when it comes to looking at the whole of the UKs financial system.

Story continues

While the UKs move to a cashless society should not impact day to day monetary policy, what happens next in terms of the development of central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) is important. The Bank is currently consulting on a digital pound, which is expected to be in circulation by the end of the decade. The logic is that it must keep apace with financial trends so it does not have to play regulatory catch-up in the future.

Unlike cryptocurrencies, which are decentralised, a digital pound will be controlled centrally and therefore less subject to volatility. However, as was pointed out by the House of Lords Economic Affairs Committee last year, the introduction of Britcoin would have far-reaching consequences for households, businesses, and the monetary system for decades to come and could pose significant risks depending on how it is designed. These include, among others, state surveillance of peoples spending decisions, the risk of financial instability if people convert bank deposits into the digital pound at times of economic stress, and the national security risk of a single point of failure that could be targeted by hostile actors.

Given the current trajectory, a cashless society feels inevitable, and for many people is already here. But we cannot afford to forget the important role cash plays in our society. Improving the sustainability of the cash payment model for those who need it should be a top policy focus.
Twitter CEO Elon Musk has once again changed Canadian public broadcaster CBC's Twitter designation in an update Tuesday morning following a strong reaction from Canadian politicians and members of the public.

The updated designation that now appears on CBC's main Twitter page reads "69% Government-funded media."

CBC/Radio-Canada announced on Monday they are pausing all activities on its corporate and news Twitter accounts after being stamped with a "government-funded media" label by the social media platform Sunday evening.

"Our journalism is impartial and independent. To suggest otherwise is untrue. That is why we are pausing our activities on @Twitter," the news organization wrote in a tweet posted Monday afternoon.

CBC Twitter page now labeled as "Government-funded Media" by social media organization

The Canadian public broadcaster now joins American media organizations National Public Radio (NPR) and PBS NewsHour in suspending Twitter usage after the social platform announced changes aimed at accounts heavily engaged in geopolitics and diplomacy.

SpaceX and Tesla billionaire and more recently, Twitter's owner Elon Musk quoted the definition of state-affiliated media in the companys guidelines as outlets where the state exercises control over editorial content through financial resources, direct or indirect political pressures, and/or control over production and distribution.

While the CBC is a Crown corporation  defined as being wholly-owned federal or provincial organizations structured like independent organizations  a statement released by the news organization says they operate "at arms length from the government."

"We are independent of all lobbies and of all political and economic influence... Public interest guides all our decisions," the statement reads.

CBC reported government funding totalling $1.24 billion during its 2021-22 annual report.

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre reacted to the label being implemented by tweeting "CBC officially exposed as 'Government-funded media.' Now people know that it is Trudeau propaganda, not news."

Story continues

Poilievre had previously made calls on Twitter's CEO to add the "government-funded" label to accounts that promoted "news-related content from CBC.

This resulted in a strongly-worded response from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau during a press briefing Monday morning, calling Poilievre's actions an "attack" on a Canadian institution.

Canadians divided on Twitter's CBC label

Many Canadians issued strong reactions on social media in response to Twitter slapping CBC with a Government-funded Media label.

One user pointed to a previously-published press-release by the Canadian Liberal party, in which they pledged $675 million in funding to revitalize the broadcasting organization.

Other responses suggest that members of the public themselves had tagged Twitter's CEO and requested CBC receive the Government-funded designation.

It was  like myself that tagged Elon Musk and asked him to designate #CBC as gov. funded. 70% is gov. funded...smh. Musk didn't label it state run media so what is the fuss? BTW I watch CBS and enjoy it, but its good people know how it is funded. Transparency is important.  Helen Anderson (@harriet_anders) April 17, 2023

One user pointed out why CBC was the only Canadian news organization to receive the designation when publications such as Macleans, select Postmedia and Blackpress papers and the Walrus received funding through the federal Local Journalism Initiative during 2021-22 totalling $50 million.

1/ Hey @elonmusk. Just out of curiosity where are the "Government Funded Media" badges for Postmedia in Canada? They've received huge bailouts and have said they cannot survive without government money. Where is the badge for sites like Canada Proud that are paid by the  Lonney Butler (@ButlerLonney) April 17, 2023

Opposingly, others chimed in saying their personal rights to make informed news decisions are being denied in the shuffle.

As a Canadian that used mainly #Twitter to get #CBC News I believe that my right to get informed is been denial! Please #CBC get back on Twitter! Thanks! https://t.co/lcxfQlDwvY  Anne Farrell (@FarrellComm) April 17, 2023

Some questioned CBC's actions to temporarily halt their usage of the social platform saying that this is a time independent media to stand their ground and stand firm in their established credibility.

I think the scheme to shun media, is working. Its social propaganda. Instead of leaving a platform, media need to stand their ground and stand firm to their credibility. Not all will believe one or a few sources, over years of reputable reporting !. #NPR #AP #media @cenkuygur  Samantha Sheldon (@SamanthaJaneS) April 17, 2023

CBC News Editor in Chief Brodie Fenlon stands firm on temporarily halting the use of CBC News accounts on Twitter, saying the move is "necessary."

"It is important to take a moment to assess what Twitter has done. That is why we have pressed pause today on our accounts," Fenlon said.
Burial of the dead in Ukraine

Both sites are located at the Alexander Cemetery near Irkutsk. One includes 13 graves near the central entrance, while another one consists of 53 Wagner Group private military company (PMC) graves.

According to Russian media, 17 of those buried at the Wagner cemetery were from Transbaikalia, 20 came from Irkutsk Oblast, and 11 from Buryatia.

Read also: Russian military plane crashes in residential area in Irkutsk, both pilots killed

At least 43 of the dead were prisoners, aged between 20 and 62. Their convictions are available on open court databases. At least 17 Wagner fighters were convicted murderers, while the others were in prison for theft and drugs.

Read also: Conscripts from regiment from Russias Irkutsk Oblast almost all killed near Avdiyivka

Journalists contacted the families of the victims who said that they had no idea that their relatives had been killed in the war.

According to relatives, families receive RUB 5 million ($60,000) for burial money if a Wagner mercenary dies.

Another RUB 100,000 ($1,200) is allocated for the funeral itself. If relatives are not found, the Wagner PMC holds the funeral and compensation is not paid to anyone.

Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov confirmed that Ukraines military losses are far lower than Russias, he told La Razon in an April 16 interview.

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 Missouri man who shot a teenager who rang the wrong doorbell while trying to pick up his younger brothers was charged Monday with two felony counts, officials said.

A white man in his 80s, Andrew Lester, has been charged with two crimes in the April 13 shooting of Ralph Yarl, 16, who is Black: assault in the first degree and armed criminal action, Clay County Prosecuting Attorney Zachary Thompson said Monday.

Lester is 84, according to police documents. Earlier, authorities had given his age as 85.

An arrest warrant was issued for Lester, who is not in custody, Thompson said, adding that he didn't know where Lester was.

Lester's bond was set at $200,000, Thompson said.

Thompson said there was a racial component to the shooting but declined to elaborate. Lester faces a maximum punishment of life in prison in the assault charge and three to 15 years on the gun charge, Thompson said.

Lester allegedly opened fire with a .32-caliber revolver, striking Yarl twice  once in the head and once in the arm. Yarl had not entered the home when Lester allegedly shot him through a glass door, Thompson said.

Speaking to NBC News' Tom Llamas, family attorney Lee Merritt said he was unaware Lester would be charged but said Yarl's relatives were relieved.

"We need him to be prepared to face full accountability for his actions," Merritt added.

Merritt said earlier that Yarl's mother had asked him to pick up his 11-year-old twin brothers Thursday. He went to a home in the 1100 block of Northeast 115th Street instead of Northeast 115th Terrace in Kansas City, Missouri, police said.

Waited at the door

He rang the doorbell shortly before 10 p.m. and waited for someone to respond, Merritt said.

Whoever was inside took a little longer than he anticipated to respond, and so he just waited at the door, Merritt said, citing a statement Yarl gave to law enforcement investigators from his hospital bed Friday.

He heard rustling around going on in the house and then finally the door was open, the attorney said. And he was confronted by a man who told him, Dont come back around here, and then he immediately fired his weapon.

Story continues

Yarl was shot in the head, which cracked his skull and left him with a critical, traumatic brain injury, the attorney said. While the teenager was still on the ground, the homeowner opened fire a second time, striking Yarl in the upper right arm, Merritt said.

Lester told authorities that he lives alone and had just lain down to bed when he heard his doorbell ring, according to a probable cause statement from a Kansas City Police Department detective.

Lester opened his home's front door and saw a Black man pulling on the handle of a storm door in what Lester believed was an attempted break-in, according to the statement.

According to Lester's account in the statement, no words were exchanged and he opened fire seconds after opening the door.

Lester "stated it was the last thing he wanted to do, but he was 'scared to death' due to the male's size and LESTER'S age," the statement says.

The statement adds that Lester was visibly upset during the interview with authorities and repeatedly expressed concern for Yarl.

Yarl, who was hospitalized after the shooting, told authorities in an interview at the hospital that he didnt "pull on the door."

"Ralph, you're alive, buddy'

How the encounter turned violent so quickly still confuses Yarl as he recovers, his aunt, Faith Spoonmore, said.

Well remind him like, Ralph, youre alive, buddy. And then he has the times where hes like, Why? I did nothing wrong. Why? I did nothing wrong. And he just cannot understand why, Spoonmore said. So its waves. He goes through waves.

Merritt said Yarl is now in stable condition and out of the hospital. The teen spoke to President Joe Biden on Monday, Merritt said.

"Ralph just got off the phone with the president of the United States tonight," the lawyer said. "Hes relieved by the outpouring of support. And like I said he had a chance to speak with the White House, and the president of the United States can get some direction currently."

Yarl said the person who shot him was a white man who "seemed angry and hostile" by his presence on the property, his attorney said.

Merritt said the teenager saved his own life by fleeing and banging on at least three neighbors doors for help.

At the third home, Merritt said, the neighbor told Yarl to lie on the ground and put his hands in the air. He complied and then passed out, the attorney said.

A police officer on April 17, 2023, walks past the house where 16-year-old Ralph Yarl was shot when he went to the wrong address to pick up his younger brothers in Kansas City, Mo. (Charlie Riedel / AP)

The neighborhood

Merritt said the neighborhood where the shooting occurred is predominantly white and conservative and "commonly referred to among locals as God's country."

"We've heard reports from Black people who live in the neighborhood, who visit the neighborhood, that there seems to be a standing hostility toward Black presence in that community," he said.

Karen Skinner, who has lived on 115th Street for more than 30 years, said the shooting in her neighborhood surprised her given how her block is typically quiet and crime isnt an issue.

Its a neighborhood in which Im not going to even walk on my neighbors yard because theyre all very well manicured, Skinner said, adding that the street includes many older white homeowners whose children have grown up.

In recent years, newer families have been moving in, including a Black family, she said, but most residents keep to themselves.

Ralph Yarl. (Ben Crump Law via AP)

This was an absolute shock, she said of the shooting.

Skinner said she was still awake in the late evening of April 13 doing laundry but didnt hear gunfire or screams. Another friend messaged her on Facebook to check if the emergency lights flooding the neighborhood were for her home. When Skinner said she went outside to check on what happened, the teen had already been taken to the hospital.

Skinner said she had never interacted with the homeowner who shot Yarl, despite living in the same neighborhood for decades. Since the shooting, she has been trying to make sense of why someone felt using a firearm was necessary.

If you dont know whats at the door and youre that scared, then dont open the door, she said. Im afraid that race played a part of that.

She added, I wish the kid had come to my house.

Ralph Yarl (via GoFundMe)

Meanwhile, the teenager's aunt said he has received an outpouring of love and support from his teachers, friends and classmates.

Yarl, a junior at Staley High School in Kansas City, is an excellent student and talented musician, the superintendent of North Kansas City Schools said in a statement Monday.

He maintains a stellar GPA while taking mostly college-level courses, Dan Clemens said. While he loves science and hopes to pursue that career path, his passion is music. Thankfully, we know he is now recovering alongside family.

Megan Lilien, his former teacher, said Yarl is a gentle soul and gifted student who wants to study chemical engineering in college.

Lilien, who taught Yarl at the Missouri Scholars Academy, a three-week residential program for academically gifted students, said he was a highly intelligent and observant student, curious about the world.

The shooting has sparked outrage on social media, a weekend protest and calls for the shooters arrest.

Merritt urged authorities to investigate whether race played a role and why the man decided to pull the trigger twice.

"He's going to have to say that he looked out, he saw a black silhouette and he feared for his life," the attorney said.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
The Charlotte Symphony has announced its summer season that will bring live music under the stars to communities throughout the Charlotte area.

This years Summer Pops series features four concerts at Symphony Park, including the popular patriotic performance Celebrate America! which also features fireworks.

ALSO READ: Heres whos playing at Charlottes largest amphitheaters this season

The CSO will also perform five free concerts in Charlotte-area community parks. Each schedule is listed below.

The Summer Pops series at Symphony Park:

June 11  The Music of John Williams

Relive the iconic themes and melodies from your favorite blockbuster films, ranging from Superman and Star Wars to Jurassic Park.

June 18  Swingin Jazz at the Park

The symphony will celebrate Duke Ellington and the music of the Harlem Renaissance.

June 25  Family Night at the Movies

Relive magical musical moments from some of the most popular family films including Encanto, The Wizard of Oz, and Frozen.

July 2  Celebrate America!

Join the Charlotte Symphony for an exciting salute to America with a night of patriotic favorites and tunes that celebrate Americas unique musical traditions  all topped off with a fireworks finale.

Summer Pops concerts are held at Symphony Park at SouthPark Mall at 4400 Sharon Road. Gates open at 5 p.m. Prelude performances begin at 7 p.m. and the symphony starts at 8:15 p.m.

This year, general admission tickets will be available for the Summer Pops series in addition to a subscription package.

Pre-purchased general admission tickets for the June performances cost $15 for adults and $5 for youth ages 1318. Tickets for the Celebrate America performance cost $18 for adults and $5 for youth. Children ages 12 and younger are admitted free but they will need a ticket to attend.

Prices increase for day-of purchases.

Subscriptions to all four Summer Pops concerts are available and include premium reserved spaces on the lawn. Subscription prices are $200 for a Pod of 2, $360 for a Pod of 4, $510 for a Pod of 6, and $640 for a Pod of 8.

Story continues

Parking at Symphony Park is free.

Tickets for Summer Pops are on sale now at charlottesymphony.org/summer.

Dates and locations for the free concerts in community parks are listed below:

June 9 at 8:15 p.m.  Stumptown Park in Matthews

June 24 at 8:30 p.m.  Bailey Road Park in Cornelius

June 29 at 8:30 p.m.  Pineville Lake Park in Pineville

July 1 at 8:30 p.m.  Village Park in Kannapolis

A date for a performance at Duke Energys EnergyExplorium at McGuire Nuclear Station in Huntersville will be announced later.

More information about the free concerts is available at charlottesymphony.org/communityengagement.

(VIDEO: Charlottes first-ever poet laureate unveils latest work)
When the pandemic hit, Rabbi Asher Knight used one of Temple Beth Els sacred Torahs during the high holidays  chosen because it symbolized perseverance.

The artifact was among 1,500 Czech Memorial Scrolls that survived Nazi Germanys invasion of Czechoslovakia during the Holocaust. It was later found in the 1960s by Holocaust survivors.

We did so to send a message to ourselves and our community, Knight said. That is difficult times are a part of life and there is a tomorrow and a new beginning.

Three years later, its a message that still rings true amid increasing antisemitism, he said. To honor that message and those who came before, Temple Beth El selected the Czech Memorial Scroll to start a week long restoration process on Holocaust Remembrance Day.

Holocaust Remembrance Day or Yom HaShoah ends Tuesday at sundown.

Rabbi Moshe Druin repairs a Torah scroll at Temple Beth El in Charlotte, NC on Tuesday, April 18, 2023. Tuesday is Holocaust Remembrance Day (Yom HaShoah). Druin, a sofer was repairing a Czech Memorial Scroll that survived the Holocaust. The Torah is around 300 years old.

Rabbi Moshe Druin, a visiting sofer, will do the restoration and is among fewer than 20 people in the world qualified to perform this work, temple leaders said.

The Torah has the stories and values of our people, Knight said. It is our story, our history and part of what makes our identity.

Restoration ensured a Torah could last for a generation, he said. This was a sacred obligation as the Czech Memorial Scroll owned by the temple was the last remnant of destroyed Jewish communities, he said.

A sofer, or Jewish scribe, uses Kosher ink to carefully re-ink letters that may have faded. The second part involves mending the scrolls parchment. The Czech Memorial Scroll is among six large Torah scrolls that will be restored, Knight said.

Rabbi Moshe Druin repairs a Torah scroll at Temple Beth El in Charlotte, NC on Tuesday, April 18, 2023. Tuesday is Holocaust Remembrance Day (Yom HaShoah). Druin, a sofer was repairing a Czech Memorial Scroll that survived the Holocaust. The Torah is around 300 years old.

During the Holocaust, attempts to harm Jewish communities included efforts to confiscate their sacred texts, Knight said. Nazis wanted to collect Jewish artifacts for a museum.

That was their intention, Knight said. They would kill off the community and then have a museum of an extinct race.

As a form of resistance, Jewish people risked their lives to protect the Torah scrolls. Many were hidden as Nazi Germany attacked, he said. When the Czech Memorial Scrolls were discovered, they were dispersed across the world to Jewish communities.

Story continues

This ensured the scrolls would continue to give life, Knight said.

And that the travesty and devastation of the holocaust would not be in vain, he said.

More than a text

The Torah has sustained Jewish people for centuries, said Druin. The morals and values it teaches are universal and followed across the globe, he said.

This is really what sustains us, Druin said. When we have an opportunity to bring back, restore and fix, its a great privilege and honor.

Uriel Waknine, a sofer repairs a Torah scroll at Temple Beth El in Charlotte, NC on Tuesday, April 18, 2023. Tuesday is Holocaust Remembrance Day (Yom HaShoah).

As a way to harm Jewish people, the first thing any civilization would do is burn our religious texts, Druin said. The texts are the heart and soul of Jewish people in many ways, he said.

A Torah was not just something to read, he added

With this scroll, as it comes by on Jewish services, we will kiss it, he said. On the Jewish holiday  Simchat Torah  we dance around the room with it.

With recent antisemitism happening around Charlotte, Jewish leaders are teaching their congregation to be proud of their heritage, Knight said. Whether it was pharaohs, czars or Nazi Germany, Jewish people have persevered despite persecution, he added.

The restoration of the Czech scroll honored what it meant to resist in a time of hate, he said.

Thats a message, in itself, that is important, Knight said.
Tony Holt, former News-Journal reporter and host of the "Sun Crime State" podcast recently launched a new podcast, "Chasing Ghosts: The Hunt for the D.C. Sniper," which examines the killing spree that terrorized the Washington, D.C., area in October 2002.

DAYTONA BEACH  For three years during his time as a News-Journal crime reporter, Tony Holt hosted the popular Sun Crime State podcast.

The show highlighted criminal cases in Florida and captivated its audience with more than 400,000 downloads across 76 episodes.

After leaving Daytona Beach for Arkansas, Holt released his next true crime podcast project, Chasing Ghosts: The Hunt for the D.C. Snipers, distributed by Law & Crime Trial Network, in which the longtime journalist takes a deep dive into the killing spree that terrorized the suburbs of Washington, D.C., in 2002.

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Originally from Virginia, Holt was living in the Richmond area at the time. He was just 2.5 hours from D.C., where ultimately 10 people were killed and three were injured from Oct. 2, 2002, until the two men were captured on Oct. 24, 2002.

It affected everybody, Holt said in an interview. Not quite at the same level as D.C. It started there first  most of the shootings were around the suburbs of D.C. It started to creep more toward Richmond, and we were becoming more and more on edge.

Holt was in between newspaper jobs at the time when the Northern Virginia Journal hired him to cover the trial of Lee Boyd Malvo, the younger of the two shooters.

As each new victim was gunned down, the FBI and local detectives struggled to track down a killer  until a tip helped them piece together the murder mystery, the podcasts synopsis reads in part.

Most of the episodes in Sun Crime State" were centered around one old Florida case, while Chasing Ghosts is a 10-episode deep dive into the U.S. capitals events  the most ambitious project he said he has ever done.

Here it was like taking on a book, he said. Because of the breadth of research, the number of people I reached out to and interviewed  It was a lot of work. It took a year to do what amounted to about six hours of content.

Story continues

Holt pitched the idea to Law & Crime. He is now a freelance podcast host for the company.

'It was surreal and something that I never forget'

Holt said one issue he explores in the podcast is the terror that permeated the D.C. suburbs.

Residents who lived in the areas in or near the killing zone will never forget what it was like living under those conditions, Holt said. Because you were afraid to walk outside your door, let alone drive to the gas station or grocery store, or take your dog to the park, take your kids out. Those people stayed indoors and avoided going out at all costs.

Tony Holt, host of the true crime podcast "Chasing Ghosts: The Hunt for the D.C. Snipers."

He said he remembers people who did go out to buy groceries, for instance, zigzagging across the parking lot to get to the store.

It was surreal and something that I never forget, he said.

Holt said covering one of the biggest trials in the country at the time made him realize the importance of the story for him as a journalist.

It was a lot of all-star TV and print news reporters covering it alongside me, Holt said. That had an effect on me, too. And I always wanted to circle back and do something, take part in the retelling of the sniper case, because it was such a riveting case, such a crazy case, such a tragic case.

He knew he would tackle the subject for his next project after leaving his last print journalism job in 2020, as the 20th anniversary of the shootings was approaching.

Holt said he hopes to make another podcast series after Chasing Ghosts, but given his interest in several different subjects, he's still undecided on the genre and topic.

All I know is that I will do another podcast, Holt said. Who I will partner with, what the subject will be, remains to be seen. But I hope to do a lot more of it moving forward.

Chasing Ghosts is available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: True crime podcast: Former Daytona reporter probes D.C. Sniper attacks
Kim Bergman, left, speaks alongside Tess Ramirez, middle, and other child sex survivors and lawmakers during a Statehouse press conference advocating statute of limitations reform. Gov. Laura Kelly signed their bill into law on Monday.

Pedophiles in Kansas who have avoided criminal charges and lawsuits from survivors could soon see the inside of a courtroom under a new state law amending the statute of limitations for child sexual abuse.

Gov. Laura Kelly on Monday signed House Bill 2127 into law, capping a multiyear effort to reform the statute of limitations, which imposes a limited time frame for survivors to seek justice.

"It has been a tough and long-fought battle, but thanks to the courageous survivors who came forward to share their stories, this important piece of legislation will finally become law in the state of Kansas," said Sen. Cindy Holscher, D-Overland Park.

Holscher had been the driving force behind the proposal, working for four years to convince her colleagues to take up the issue while amplifying the voices of survivors.

Lesa Patterson-Kinsey was one of those survivors. She said she is thrilled after a long road that the bill is now law and she is proud to have worked for years with survivors, legislators and organizations.

"It's definitely going to help children in the future be protected and keep sexual predators off the streets and keep them from repeating, because we know predators continue to repeat," Patterson-Kinsey said.

Last month, as the Senate debated the bill, Holscher for the first time publicly shared her own story of an attempted sexual assault.

More: Get 'predators off the street': Kansas Senate ends limits on child sex abuse prosecutions

She was 5 years old, playing with kittens in a barn on the family farm, when a farmhand suggested they play a game that involved showing their private parts. The sound of a slamming screen door sent the man fleeing, saving Holscher from joining the estimated 1 in 10 children who are sexually abused before their 18th birthday.

"If it has taken me this long, over 47 years, to speak about the abuse that almost happened, can you please understand why it takes years, often decades, for victims of sexual abuse to come forward?" Holscher asked.

Story continues

For survivors who don't go to law enforcement until later in life, state law has barred criminal charges and civil lawsuits.

Once the law goes into effect July 1, prosecutors can pursue criminal charges for child sex abuse crimes at any time. Previously, some such crimes had a limit of five years.

"From this day forward, survivors will be able to bring criminal charges against their abusers no matter how long it takes for them to be able to disclose their abuse," Patterson-Kinsey said.

Child sex abuse survivors can wait until they turn 31 to file lawsuits. Previously, they only had until their 21st birthday. They also get a three-year lookback window if the perpetrator is convicted of a crime.

A new Kansas law repeals the statute of limitations for child sex abuse, meaning prosecutors can charge pedophiles with crimes unlimited years later. Sen. Cindy Holscher, D-Overland Park, was the driving force behind the effort.

More: Is Kansas 'a sanctuary state for predators'? Child sex abuse survivors push legal reform.

"This is breakthrough legislation that will keep our children and communities safer by permitting our state to get more predators off our streets, while building a foundation to allow more survivors of childhood sexual violence to pursue justice," Holscher said.

The new law was a compromise negotiated between advocates and Republican legislative leadership.

The legislation passed the House and Senate unanimously after months of grassroots lobbying from survivors, who set up an advocacy table near the Statehouse entrance that lawmakers walked by every day. Kelly thanked survivors for their bravery and said the legislation would not have been possible without their work.

More: 'Hear us,' child sex abuse survivors plead. Will Kansas lawmakers make legal reforms?

"This was a team effort by courageous survivors who showed up at the Capitol every day to meet with legislators and worked tirelessly to make sure they were heard," said Sen. Usha Reddi, D-Manhattan, who had shared her story about being sexually abused by her father.

While they celebrated the bill's passage, survivors and their supporters vowed to continue efforts to expand the window for civil litigation.

"We plan on going back and continue working because there's still work to be done to keep helping survivors," Patterson-Kinsey said.

This article originally appeared on Topeka Capital-Journal: New Kansas law reforms child sex abuse crime statute of limitations
Child care workers say their industry is in crisis, so they went to Raleigh to push for more funding.

We followed some Charlotte child care providers up to Raleigh today



Theyre participating in a big rally for more funding for early childhood education



Were live at noon @wsoctv during the kids walk around the legislature



Plus were speaking to a legislator tonight at 5 pic.twitter.com/cdBdLj126y  Evan Donovan (@EvanDonovan) April 20, 2023

The workers want to make child care more affordable for families, but they also want to make sure workers are paid enough.

RELATED: Daycare staffing shortage Charlotte leaves parents scrambling

We dont do this for money. We never have, said Emma Biggs, the child care director at Pathway Preschool Center in Plaza Midwood. We do it with passion.

Biggs says she had to lay off seven part-time employees in March and cut the centers hours.

There are 42 more children on a waitlist to get into the infant class.

We need to secure staffing for teachers when stabilization grant money ends in December, Biggs said. And we need to put money back into the states subsidy system so that they pay us the rate of child care that it really does cost.

The daycare is one of several in Charlotte and many across the state that closed on Thursday for the event in Raleigh.

Biggs says the situation is dire and that if some pandemic-era federal funding ends in December, shes not sure if her center will survive.

We dont know. We dont know, she said.

Channel 9 was out Thursday morning with people who were leaving Charlotte to gather at the General Assembly in Raleigh.

Iris and Robert McRae said Thursday they have been losing teachers at their child care facility in Rockingham.

Story continues

For us, its about giving our teachers and staff more money, Iris McRae said. They deserve it. Some people say its not about the money, but it is about the money.

Politicians said there is a good chance the funding will come through.

Yeah, I believe its going to happen, said N.C. Rep. David Willis, R-Union County. I think well continue the compensation grants, as well as looking at market subsidy rates, and several other programs. So I think theres a number of things youll see in this budget that will be really positive for child care in North Carolina.

They need to make decent money, said N.C. Sen. Joyce Waddell, D-Mecklenburg County. And were talking about more than minimum wage. Were talking about a living wage.

There is bipartisan support and good conditions for passing a budget with more funding for child care.

Legislators told Channel 9 the budget is on track to be finalized.

It must be passed by the end of June, according to the law.

VIDEO: Advocates look for people to become foster parents amid childcare crisis in NC
Photo Illustration by Kelly Caminero / The Daily Beast / Getty

Sudans military and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have reached a ceasefire agreement after four days of violent clashes throughout the country.

The 24-hour ceasefire is expected to take place Tuesday evening, but already, shelling and gunfire is still ongoing, according to Al Jazeera.

The violence between the military and the RSF comes years after a military coup ousted Sudans leader Omar al-Bashir in 2019. But in the years since, a power-sharing agreement between the two sides has fallen apart. The military has called the latest violent clashes an attempted coup and rebellion against the state.

Attacks have damaged several helicopters and aircraft at bases in Sudan, according to satellite imagery taken by Maxar Technologies Tuesday and shared with The Daily Beast.

Satellite image 2023 Maxar Technologies.

Satellite image 2023 Maxar Technologies.

The images show at least four damaged helicopters at a helicopter base south of Khartoum. At Merowe Airbase, north of Khartoum, there are signs that one of the buildings is on fire. Su-25 ground attack airplanes can be seen destroyed at El Obeid airbase as well.

At least 14 airplanes at Khartoum International Airport have been destroyed in recent days, according to satellite imagery analysis from Maxar Technologies.

Those images, taken on Monday, show a destroyed Ukrainian airplane at the airport next to one that appears somewhat intact. Other images show fire and billowing smoke plumes rising up in a black cloud from damaged airplanes.

Satellite imagery collected this morning (April 17, 2023) over #Khartoum, #Sudan, shows damage from the ongoing fighting between rival Sudanese military factions. Seen here is Khartoum International Airport where at least 14 airplanes have been destroyed & many others damaged. pic.twitter.com/eIr50SL6sm  Maxar Technologies (@Maxar) April 17, 2023

The violence has been roiling some of the most vulnerable in the country, with attacks and bombardments hitting hospitals. Ibn Sina Hospital came under bombardment Tuesday morning, according to the Sudan Central Doctors Committee. Other hospitals, including the Al Moalem Medical City hospital, the Khartoum Teaching Hospital, and the Police Hospital in Burri, have come under attack in recent days as well, doctors told CNN, the Miami Herald, and the New York Times.

Story continues

The evacuation was chaos, one witness told CNN. We were running as soldiers were shouting, run, and then someone else would yell, stop its not safe. But what choice did we have?

Both sides have denied hitting hospitals.

Sudans Central Medical Committee urged both sides to stop attacking hospitals and vulnerable people.

This bombing remains a clear evidence that the lives of medical staff and patients are threatened, which will leave hospitals empty from medical staff, Sudans Central Medical Committee said Tuesday. We at the Sudan Central Medical Committee warn the warring parties not to go in this dangerous direction, and we also appeal to human rights organizations to intervene urgently to protect the medical staff and patients, and avoid the hospital and staff facilities from the danger of this bombing.

Satellite image 2023 Maxar Technologies.

A U.S. convoy was attacked earlier this week, U.S. Secretary of State Tony Blinken confirmed while on travel to Japan this week.

"I can confirm that yesterday we had an American diplomatic convoy that was fired on," Blinken said. "All of our people are safe and unharmed, but this action was reckless, it was irresponsible and, of course, unsafe. A diplomatic convoy with diplomatic plates, a U.S. flag being fired upon."

Blinken spoke with Army chief Gen. Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and Gen. Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, Monday, urging them to reach a ceasefire agreement following the attack. Blinken shared his concerns about the death and injury of Sudanese civilians amidst the fighting and urged the warring sides to allow humanitarian assistance in to the country.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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China is reportedly planning to conduct a "major military activity" in the Yellow Sea this week amid heightened tensions in the region.

Chinas Maritime Safety Administration said Monday that military operations will take place in the Yellow Sea on Monday between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m. local time, without disclosing further information.

Chinese and Russian destroyers sail in formation after a joint naval exercise in the East China Sea, Dec. 27, 2022.

The agency warned mariners not to enter the waters off the coast of Shandong province, which is often used for military drills and far enough away from the U.S. regional allies.

The planned military activity comes after China held military drills around Taiwan in what Beijing asserted was a warning to the self-governing island nation.

CHINESE EMBASSY URGES HOUSE REPUBLICANS TO STOP TARGETING CHINA, FOCUS ON OWN FAILURE IN COVID ORIGINS HUNT

The Chinese military held three days of large-scale air and sea exercises it dubbed "Joint Sword" that ended last Monday, which followed U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthys meeting with Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

China had warned of serious consequences if the meeting took place.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Navy sailed a warship through the Taiwan Strait on Sunday, drawing protests from Beijing, which denounced the transit as "public hype."

A spokesperson for the Eastern Theater Command said it was ready at any time to "resolutely safeguard the countrys sovereignty, safety, and regional peace and stability."

China has stepped up its military pressure over Taiwan in recent years, sending fighter jets and navy vessels toward the island on a near-daily basis.

After former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan last August, China sent more and more military vessels over the midline of the Taiwan Strait, an unofficial boundary that had been accepted for decades. That increasing pressure from China has given greater attention to Taiwan globally.

Fox News Adam Sabes and Reuters contributed to this report.
(Bloomberg) -- Chinas defense minister congratulated Russian President Vladimir Putin for promoting world peace, underscoring the warm relations between the two nations more than a year after Moscows invasion of Ukraine sparked Europes biggest conflict since World War II.

Most Read from Bloomberg

A clip posted on the Chinese company NetEase Inc.s short-video platform appears to show Li Shangfu reading prepared remarks in a meeting with Putin and Lis Russian counterpart on Sunday.

Calling Putin an extraordinary state leader, Li cited his important contributions to promoting world peace and development.

The comments highlighted the contrast between Beijings approach to the Kremlin leader - whos wanted by the International Criminal Court for alleged war crimes - and that of the US and its allies, which have hit Russia with sweeping sanctions and sought to isolate Putin over a war thats killed tens of thousands and displaced millions.

Top diplomats from the Group of Seven leading industrial nations Tuesday condemned Russian aggression and vowed to continue supporting Ukraine as long as it takes.

Read: G-7 to Back Ukraine Indefinitely, Seeks Stability With China

It wasnt clear what the source of the Li video was. The remarks were not included in Chinese state medias reporting on the meeting of the three men or in the official Kremlin readout of the event. Chinas Defense Ministry didnt immediately respond to a request for comment on Tuesday.

Lis visit to Russia is the first by a Chinese defense minister since the war began. Beijing has been Russias biggest supporter since Putin ordered the February 2022 invasion. Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Moscow in March and has spoken to Putin several times on the phone over the past year. Xi said China highly values the relationship with Russia during his trip.

Story continues

China has tried to cast itself as a peacemaker in the war, and unveiled a vague 12-point peace blueprint in February. Its call for a cease-fire that would freeze Russian forces in Ukraine is a non-starter for Kyiv, the US and Ukraines other supporters.

More: Putin Meets Chinas Defense Minister, Praises Military Ties

Xi hasnt spoken with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskiy since the fighting started, though there were reports around the time of Xis visit to Moscow that a call is planned.

In the meeting with Li on Sunday, Putin highlighted the exchange of intelligence and joint maneuvers in the Far East and Europe, the Interfax news service reported.

Li said China was willing to further strengthen strategic communication between the two militaries according to state broadcaster China Central Television.

(Updates with more detail from third paragraph)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
By Michael Martina

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - China is increasing its Antarctic footprint according to new satellite imagery collected by a Washington-based think tank that shows construction has resumed for the first time since 2018 on the country's fifth station in the southern polar region.

Beijing has sought to develop new shipping routes in the Arctic and expand its research in Antarctica, but Western governments worry its increasing presence in the polar regions could provide the People's Liberation Army (PLA) with better surveillance capabilities.

The new station, on Inexpressible Island near the Ross Sea, is expected to include an observatory with a satellite ground station, and should help China "fill in a major gap" in its ability to access the continent, the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) said in a report.

CSIS used satellite images taken in January to identify new support facilities, temporary buildings, a helicopter pad, and foundations for a larger main building at the 5,000 square meter (53,820 square feet) station. It estimated that construction could be done by 2024.

"While the station can provide tracking and communications for China's growing array of scientific polar observation satellites, its equipment can concurrently be used for intercepting other nations' satellite communications," CSIS said.

The station is well positioned to collect signals intelligence over Australia and New Zealand and telemetry data on rockets launched from Australia's new Arnhem Space Centre, it said. Once finished, the station is expected to include a wharf for China's Xuelong icebreaker ships.

CSIS told Reuters that while the U.S. still maintains a larger research presence in Antarctica  including the biggest facility in its McMurdo station  China's footprint is growing faster. China's fifth station will be 200 miles (320 km) from the McMurdo station, it said.

Story continues

Under the 1959 Antarctic Treaty, to which China is party, activities on the continent are restricted to "peaceful purposes." Military personnel are allowed to conduct scientific research, but are banned from setting up bases, carrying out maneuvers, or testing weapons.

A 2022 Pentagon report said China's new Antarctic infrastructure was likely intended in part to strengthen its future claims to natural resources and maritime access and improve PLA capabilities.

China rejects claims that such stations would be used for espionage.

(Reporting by Michael Martina; Editing by Don Durfee and Marguerita Choy)
Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin during talks in Moscow on March 20, 2023

China is ready to cooperate with Russia... to promote our comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era," he said.

Read also: Ukrainian, Chinese foreign ministers discuss Zelenskyys peace formula

Wenbin stressed that China and Russia are committed to the principles of non-alignment, non-confrontation, and non-targeting of any third party, and are developing a new type of relationship between major powers based on mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and mutually beneficial cooperation.

Read also: Ukraine anti-corruption agency adds Chinese construction giant to list of international sponsors of war

He did not elaborate on how Russias aggressive actions in Ukraine constitute non-confrontation and non-targeting of a third party.

Regarding Ukraine, Wenbin pointed to Chinas consistent and clear position.

We are firmly committed to promoting peace negotiations and will continue to work with the international community to play a constructive role in the political settlement of the Ukraine crisis, Wenbin 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
(Bloomberg) -- Chinas Foreign Minister Qin Gang will visit the Philippines this week to boost ties and tackle regional security issues as the Southeast Asian nation bolsters its defense alliance with the US.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Beijings top envoy will meet Philippine counterpart Enrique Manalo during a visit from April 21 to 23 to exchange views on recent South China Sea talks, the Philippines Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement Tuesday. They will also discuss ways to strengthen cooperation in agriculture, trade, energy and infrastructure, the agency added.

The visit coincides with the biggest U.S.-Philippine military exercises which run through next week  part of the wider push from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to advance the longstanding alliance. The U.S. recently gained expanded access to Philippine military site, and the nations are planning joint patrols in the South China Sea, where Beijing and Manila have a territorial dispute.

US, Philippines Follow Taiwan Drills With Biggest Exercises

Qin will fly to Manila days after Chinese ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian drew controversy for saying that the Southeast Asian nation is stoking the fire over Taiwans independence by giving the US access to military sites near the Taiwan Strait.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Li Shangfu's meeting with Vladimir Putin, April 16, 2023

The Ukrainian official commented on the recent meeting between Chinese Defense Minister General Li Shangfu and Russian dictator Vladimir Putin in Moscow.

Klimkin also sees the meeting as evidence that China will continue to use weakened Russia in the confrontation with the United States.

Read also: China cant decide  Strategic partnership with Russia or working with international partners toward peace

I dont think that this visit will lead to any breakthrough decisions in the supply of lethal weapons to Russia, he said.

A few days ago, the Chinese deliberately made it clear through the foreign minister that they would supply weapons neither to us nor to Russia.

Read also: Ukraine has no reason to believe China is providing Russia with weapons  NSDC

Klimkin did not rule out negotiations between the Chinese and the Russians on the supply of dual-purpose goods to Russia.

This, of course, is critical for Russia, since the Russian military and industrial complex cannot work effectively without Chinese components  especially [electronic] chips, and other components, the former minister said.

He believes that the Chinese will continue to use Russia without crossing any of the red lines set by the West.

Klimkin pointed out that Shangfu will actually be responsible for the technological rearmament of the Chinese army and is not so much a strategist, I mean a military strategist, but a person who strategically sees the technical reboot of the Chinese army, the Chinese security sector.

I think this visit is also in some sense the result of the contact between (Chinese President) Xi (Jinping) and Putin that took place in Moscow, the official said.

Read also: A critical moment in the war. Why China started to talk about the negotiations between Russia and Ukraine

So, I wouldnt be inclined to underestimate him. One thing is the direct supply of weapons, and we havent seen them so far. Another thing is the possibility of cooperation in various technological areas.

Story continues

Shangfu and Putin met in Moscow on April 16.

During the meeting, Putin claimed that the Russian and Chinese defense agencies regularly exchange useful information and work closely together in the fields of military and technical cooperation.

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
BEIJING (AP)  Police in New York have arrested two men for allegedly setting up a secret police station for a Chinese provincial police agency to collect information on opponents of the ruling Communist Party.

Such offices have been reported across North America, Europe and in other countries where Chinese communities include critics of the Communist Party who have family or business contacts in China. China denies that they are police stations, saying that they exist mainly to provide citizen services such as renewing driver's licenses.

Party leader and head of state Xi Jinping has waged a campaign against corruption that has also targeted criticism of his regime at home and abroad, while seeking to chase down those accused of financial crimes.

The arrests Monday in New York came alongside charges against 34 officers with Chinas national police force in China for using social media to harass party critics in the United States, authorities said Monday.

Below is a look at the allegations that China is running secret overseas police stations and the backlash they have encountered.

WHAT IS THE LATEST IN THE NEW YORK CASE?

The two men who were arrested were acting under the direction and control of a Chinese government official, the Justice Department said in a statement Monday.

The arrests of the men, identified as Harry Lu Jianwang, 61, of the Bronx, and Chen Jinping, 59, of Manhattan, both U.S. citizens, are the first of their kind anywhere in the world.

The two did not register with the Justice Department as agents of a foreign government, U.S. law enforcement officials said. And though the office did perform some services such as helping Chinese citizens renew their Chinese drivers licenses, it also served a more sinister function, including helping the Chinese government locate a pro-democracy activist of Chinese descent living in California and threatening a fugitive whom police wanted to return to China, officials said.

Story continues

WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF THE OFFICES?

On Tuesday, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said there was no such thing as an overseas police station, and accused the U.S. of smears and political manipulation. Chinas Foreign Ministry says it operates the centers abroad to help citizens with bureaucratic tasks, such as renewing drivers licenses, that typically are done at police stations in China.

But the Spain-based nongovernment group Safeguard Defenders accused Chinese police of using the offices to spy on critics abroad and to harass or threaten both citizens and non-citizens in a report published last year. A Chinese official claimed last year that 210,000 suspects of fraud were persuaded to return to China in 2021 as part of a crackdown on telephone scams, although the researchers wrote that not all were charged with crimes. Countries including Canada and Ireland asked China to close such stations or opened investigations of their own following the Safeguard Defenders report.

According to prosecutors in New York, the station in New York was operated by the Fuzhou branch of the Ministry of Public Security; they wrote that it had no authority to operate there and infringed U.S. law and national sovereignty.

HOW WILL THE INVESTIGATION AFFECT US-CHINA RELATIONS?

China-US political relations are at a historic low. In February, the U.S. canceled a visit by Secretary of State Anthony Blinken to Beijing amid a furor over a Chinese spy balloon that overflew the U.S. Suspicion of China is one of the few areas where the Democratic and Republican parties find common ground, and the accusations of illegal Chinese police stations will likely galvanize sentiment for banning of Chinese brands such as Huawei and TikTok. Countries are required by international treaty to inform each other of when and where they operate their diplomatic missions.

It's not clear if China will seek the release of the two men arrested in the U.S., who are both U.S. citizens. China has in past been accused of hostage diplomacy, including imprisoning two Canadian nationals over the detention of a top executive of the electronics giant Huawei.

WHERE ELSE DOES CHINA OPERATE SIMILAR OFFICES?

In a February 2002 news release, the government of Fujian province said it had established a first batch of 30 Fuzhou Police Overseas Service Stations on five continents. The province has traditionally sent waves of migrants to Southeast Asia, North America, Australia and Europe.

Scores of service offices  Safeguard Defenders estimates more than 100  have been reported around the world, from Canada to New Zealand. Some are based in embassies, while others have operated out of commercial centers frequented by members of the Chinese diaspora.

In Italy, Chinese police made an agreement with the government in 2016 to conduct joint patrols with local police to assist Chinese-speaking tourists. Italy ended the program last year following the Safeguard Defenders report.
Russian President Vladimir Putin meets with Chinese Defense Minister Li Shangfu at the Kremlin in Moscow on April 16, 2023. Pavel Bednyakov/Getty Images

China's defense minister applauded Putin for "promoting world peace" as they met in Moscow.

Putin is an accused war criminal responsible for the largest military conflict in Europe since WWII.

Beijing and Moscow have maintained warm ties in spite of Russia's brutal war in Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is the lead architect of a devastating, unprovoked war in Ukraine that's killed or wounded hundreds of thousands, displaced millions, and pushed NATO into a heightened state of readiness. But according to a high-level Chinese official who visited Moscow this week, Putin should be recognized for contributing to "world peace."

As they met on Sunday in the Kremlin, China's defense minister, Li Shangfu, called Putin "an extraordinary state leader" and lauded the Russian president for his "important contributions to promoting world peace and development," per Bloomberg, which drew the comments from a clip posted on the China-based company NetEase Inc.'s short-video platform.

Li appeared to read from prepared remarks in the clip, Bloomberg reported, but the remarks were not included in the Kremlin's readout of the meeting or reporting from Chinese state media. The Chinese Defense Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Insider.

The war in Ukraine  the largest military conflict in Europe since World War II  has left Ukrainian cities in ruins and wreaked havoc on the global economy. Russia has also faced widespread allegations of war crimes, and the International Criminal Court issued a warrant for Putin's arrest last month.

Throughout, China has maintained warm, if somewhat aloof, ties with Russia  even as much of the world condemns Moscow over the ongoing invasion. As Europe curtails Russian energy imports in response to the war in Ukraine, China remains a major buyer. Beijing's rhetorical support for Moscow has remained steady since Putin ordered the invasion, but China has stopped short of sending ammunition or advanced arms like precision guided missiles that Russian forces desperately need.

Story continues

In remarks broadcast on Russian TV, Li touted the "strong ties" between Russia and China as he met with Putin in the Kremlin, the Moscow Times reported.

"We have very strong ties. They surpass the military-political alliances of the Cold War era," Li said, a period during which China and Russia had frosty relations and at one point nearly fought a war over a border dispute.

The Chinese defense minister's comments were indicative of the increasingly close relationship between China and Russia, which announced a "no limits" friendship last year, even as Beijing maintains that it has not picked a side in the war in Ukraine. Li visited Russia just weeks after Chinese leader Xi Jinping met with Putin in Moscow.

The Institute for the Study of War, which has closely tracked the war in Ukraine, said that it previously assessed that "Putin was unable to secure a no-limits bilateral partnership with China during Xi's visit to Moscow, and it is likely that the meeting between Li and Putin did not further expand the scope of Russian-Chinese cooperation."

As the US and its allies have rallied behind Ukraine, providing it with billions in security assistance, Beijing has railed against Western sanctions slapped on Russia over the war and China's state-run media has echoed the Kremlin's anti-NATO propaganda.

Meanwhile, China in February unveiled a peace plan for the Ukraine war, which was met with major skepticism in Washington. The proposal does not call for Russia to pull its forces from occupied Ukrainian territories, which Kyiv has been adamant would be a prerequisite for a lasting peace.

This all comes amid historic tensions between Washington and Beijing over a range of issues, particularly Taiwan  the self-governing island democracy that China views as a breakaway province. Western leaders and officials have warned that China is closely watching the war in Ukraine in relation to its ambitions of gaining full control of Taiwan.

Read the original article on Business Insider
The incident took place in China's Jiangxi province

A Chinese man has died after being shot by a hunter who apparently mistook him for a hare, police say.

Four men have been arrested over the death of Wang Moujin, who drowned in a ditch after being shot in the head with an air gun.

The incident took place last Friday evening when the four went hunting in Shaxi Town, Jiangxi province.

Incidents involving firearms are rare in China.

Police from Xinzhou district said one of the men had opened fire after seeing movement in the grass beside the ditch, where Mr Wang was reported to have been fishing.

Authorities were then called to the scene and arrested the four men, some of whom are thought to be in their 30s. Investigations are ongoing.

An autopsy determined that Mr Wang had died by drowning.

China has some of the strictest gun laws in the world, which can even apply to replica or toy guns.

The incident has been widely discussed on Chinese social media. "How's it possible that people in this country have guns?" said one commenter on Weibo.

"I thought this was some US news," said another.

While hunting permits are issued, ownership of guns in China is largely restricted to the military, law enforcement and security personnel.

Nevertheless Xinzhou police said in a statement that they intend to crack down on crimes involving guns and explosives. China is currently in the midst of a three-year nationwide campaign against such crimes.

An air gun fires pellets using compressed air and is typically used for target shooting. Chinese hares, which are native to provinces like Jiangxi, are a common food source.
Speaking to Semafor in a no-holds-barred interview, former New Jersey governor Chris Christie, who is mulling another presidential bid, questioned Ron DeSantiss judgement and maturity in his drawn-out feud with Disney.

The Florida governor was incensed when Disney Worlds parent company criticized his Parental Rights in Education Act, commonly dubbed the dont say gay bill by the media. DeSantis retaliated by signing a bill that stripped Disney of its 56-year-old independent special district status, which had granted it the privilege of creating its own regulations, building codes, and other municipal services. When it became clear that taxpayers would have to foot the bill for Disneys various municipal services and also assume the tax districts debt of around $1 billion, DeSantis relented, instead settling for control of the board which oversees the district.

This week, DeSantis launched a fresh round of attacks on Disney after the members of the districts outgoing board passed agreements to nullify governmental intervention.

Christie now joins Mike Pence in attacking DeSantis on limited-government grounds, saying during the interview: I dont think Ron DeSantis is a conservative based on his actions towards Disney.

I believe as a conservative the job of government is in the main to stay out of the business of business. I dont think we should be heavily regulating business. I dont think we should be telling business what to do, what to say, how to think. I believe thats what conservatives have believed for as long as Ive been alive, explained Christie. Where are we headed here now? If you express disagreement in this country, the government is allowed to punish you? To me, thats what I always thought liberals did.

Christie said that if DeSantis can be outmaneuvered by Disney, he wont fare well against China and Russia.

For him to have taken that action against Disney and to not have foreseen that Disney was going to do what they did in response which was to completely take over the millions and millions acres and the zoning decisions before they got the authority, Ill tell you this much: Thats not the guy I want sitting across from President Xi and negotiating our next agreement with China or sitting across from Putin and trying to resolve whats happening in Ukraine, Christie explained. If you cant see around a corner that Bob Iger created for you, I dont think thats very imposing.

Story continues

The ex-New Jersey governor argued that sometimes in politics you just have to admit when you screwed up and you got taken.

Now [DeSantis is] doubling down, Christie added. Why do you want to punish a place that creates enormous tax revenue for your state, enormous tourism for your state? And you want to punish them because they disagreed with you?

Christie also pointed out that Republicans would be going berserk and saying its an overreach if the tables were turned and former Florida governor Charlie Crist had attacked and used the levers of government against Disney for disagreeing with liberal legislation.

Believe me, youd hear Republicans speaking differently, Christie said.

DeSantis press secretary Bryan Griffin defended the governors actions to National Review, saying Disney had extraordinary special privileges and an unfair special advantage compared to other businesses in the state.

Griffin explained that that is not appropriate, especially in light of Disneys threats to work to overturn the legislation. Neither was Disneys legally deficient, 11th hour agreement to preserve their special privileges, he said.

Thats an attempt to subvert the will of the people of Florida, and Governor DeSantis will not stand for that. Good and limited government (and, indeed, principled conservatism) reduces special privilege, encourages an even playing field for businesses, and upholds the will of the people, Griffin added.

More from National Review
Chrissy Teigen has started a debate about a pregnant mother being asked to clean up her daughters spilled popcorn on a United Airlines flight, sparking a range of responses from fellow celebrities.

MLB pitcher Anthony Bass took to Twitter on Sunday to post a picture of his two children, whom he shares with wife Sydney Rae James, on a plane. In the caption, he alleged that when a flight attendant noticed the popcorn on the floor, next to his childs seat, the worker asked Bass wife to pick it up.

The flight attendant @united just made my 22 week pregnant wife travelling with a five-year-old and two-year-old get on her hands and knees to pick up the popcorn mess by my youngest daughter, he wrote on Twitter. Are you kidding me?!?!

The next day, Teigen went on to reshare Bass post, as she noted how his remarks about United could ultimately stir up a conversation online.

Oh man this is exactly exactly the kind of tweet twitterers love. god speed, friend, she wrote, before adding in a second tweet: Also: wet paper towel.

Along with Teigen, some other celebrities have responded to the post, including Jessie James Decker, who is the sister of Bass wife.

On her Instagram Story on Sunday, James criticised United Airlines and shared more details about the flight, as she defended her sister.

As you know, she is five months pregnant, high risk, and also travelling alone with her two small children, she wrote in the since-expired post, which has been shared on Twitter. Blaire accidentally spilled some popcorn in the aisle and the flight attendant came up to Sydney with a trash bag, and a wet wipe, telling her the (captain) wants Syd to clean up every drop.

She went on to describe how Sydney was on her hands and knees during the flight, trying to clean up the popcorn.

[She was] crying in the aisle, completely humiliated and exhausted, with her children. While everyone else watched, Decker added. Way to go United.

Other Twitter users responded to Teigens tweet about the incident to defend Bass wife.

Story continues

I still think the key word here is Pregnant! Never assume the health of a pregnant woman is okay! Give the woman some respect! one wrote.

Another added: They are going to clean the plane anyway after it lands & everyone gets off.

Oh man this is exactly exactly the kind of tweet twitterers love. god speed, friend https://t.co/CHwFfkxh1O  chrissy teigen (@chrissyteigen) April 17, 2023

Some people emphasised their support for Sydney, after Bass revealed on Twitter that United Airlines was the one who gave his children the popcorn.

I was rolling my eyes until I read [that] United gave them the popcorn, one person claimed. Is there a messier dry snack on earth? If an airline gives popcorn to anyone they have it coming.

However, many people had different thoughts about the situation, as they claimed that Bass children could have cleaned up popcorn themselves, as opposed to his wife or airline staff.

Interesting that he expects service workers to clean up after his kids instead of teaching the kids to clean up after themselves AND he was too cheap to hire a nanny to travel with his HIGH RISK heavily pregnant wife & two kids. And it appears they had a layover as well. pic.twitter.com/kmoyK5wtYh  KD (@Fly_Sistah) April 17, 2023

Omg a five-year-old can easily pick up popcorn, the Mom didnt need to do it, one wrote.

As a former airline worker, Id just like to say you cant have it both ways. You cant leave a massive mess on the plane and expect to not have travel delays, another added. The plane doesnt magically clean itself between flights. More mess = more time resulting in possible delays.

A third added: Oh for the love of God. Theyre two and five, a perfect age to give them a small job of cleaning up after themselves. Its called a life lesson and family teamwork.

On Sunday, Bass went to Twitter to share that hes been in contact with the airline company, writing: Thank you everyone for the support. United Airlines is taking care of matters with the flight attendant internally.

The Independent has contacted a representative for United Airlines for comment.
As tensions grow between the United States and China, there's another front that the communist regime is fighting, one that can't be waged with a show of force  although President Xi Jinping is certainly trying.

It's the flourishing expansion of Christianity.

The growth is so exponential that one theologian is predicting the conversion of China within one to three generations.

BIBLE EXHIBIT CHALLENGES BELIEF THAT FAITH AND SCIENCE HAVE NOTHING TO DO WITH EACH OTHER

The Rev. Johnnie Moore, a member of the U.S. Commission on Religious Freedom, says, "I not only predict the conversion of China to Christianity  it's much further along than people realize and than the Chinese want to admit. And they're underestimating it."

Conservative estimates put the number of Christians at around 100 million.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

But Moore believes the number could be as high as 150 million or even 175 million.

The percentage growth of Protestant Christianity in China since the late 1980s has gone from a negligible amount to where it is 3% of the population, according to The Economist.

While that may not seem like a sizable percentage, in a country of 1.4 billion, Catholicism and Islam are also growing.

Combined, religious adherents outnumber members of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

In an interview with "Lighthouse Faith" podcast, Moore said, "In a generation, the Communist Party will not be the Communist Party that we know today. I don't think it will exist at all. But what will happen is the Chinese church will probably be the strongest, largest church in the entire world."

EASTER SUNDAY IS A CHANCE TO OVERCOME HUMAN DOUBT, AS THIS APOSTLE DID, SAYS KANSAS PASTOR

This is why the Xi administration is clamping down on Christians.

Some 2,000 church spires and crosses have been torn down. Pastors have been locked up. Bibles have been confiscated.

Bibles have even been rewritten to create more allegiance to the government rather than to Jesus. And hi-tech AI surveillance is meant to intimidate and coerce believers into submission.

Story continues

In the 1940s and 1950s, the communists' victory in China expelled religious missionaries who had been in the country since at least the turn of the 20th century.

The Xi administration has been clamping down on Christians in China.

Between 1900 and 1950, the number of Protestant Christians grew from about 100,000 to 700,000.

In 1966, China saw the Cultural Revolution under Mao Zedong, and the violent cleansing of capitalist and traditionalist symbols. But instead of eradicating what was looked at as a Western religion  Christianity instead became indigenous to China.

CHRISTIAN WHO ESCAPED CHINESE PERSECUTION WARNS US DESCENDING INTO COMMUNIST STYLE OF GOVERNANCE

Missionary martyrs like Watchman Nee became the catalyst for Christian conversion.

Nee, one of the most famous Christians in China's history, is among the scores of martyrs featured in Moore's book, "The New Book of Christian Martyrs: The Heroes of Our Faith from the 1st Century to the 21st Century."

Moore writes in the book, "Following the communist leaders' expulsion of all foreign missionaries, Nee launched the Ecumenical Campaign in 1951, united four key groups and seeing rapid growth. These were the China Inland Mission churches (suddenly without foreign help), the Jesus Family, independent churches and denominational churches in good standing with his movement."

HONG KONG'S CATHOLIC BISHOP ARRIVES IN CHINA, FIRST VISIT IN NEARLY 3 DECADES

A prolific writer and theologian, Nee spent the last 20 years of his life incarcerated, with no outside contact except with his wife. He died alone in a Chinese labor camp.

Expelled Western missionaries at one time thought China would be lost to the communists.

Chinese policemen are seen pushing Uighur women who are protesting at a street on July 7, 2009, in Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang Uighur autonomous region, China. Hundreds of Uighur people have taken to the streets protesting after their relatives were detained by authorities after Sunday's protest. Ethnic riots in the capital of the Muslim Xinjiang region on Sunday saw 156 people killed. Police officers, soldiers and firefighters were dispatched to contain the rioting with hundreds of people being detained.

But Chuck Stetson, chairman and CEO of Essentials in Education, a nonprofit educational publisher, cryptic messages would be sent back to them.

Stetson, who also co-wrote the book, "The Bible and Its Influence," says the message was something that could slip right under the noses of the communist watchdogs, but would be totally understood by the missionaries.

The message was something like, "The 'this I know" people are doing well."

The line is from the famous children Sunday school song whose first line is, "Jesus loves me, this I know"

REAL FAITH REQUIRES THINKING AND GATHERING KNOWLEDGE, SAYS ONE OF THE MOST FAMOUS PREACHERS IN THE WORLD

Christian persecution has been going on as long as Christianity itself. It began with the Romans in the first century, who perfected the art of torture in death, which included crucifixions, human torches and mauling by wild animals.

When the Emperor Constantine legalized Christianity in the fourth century, the persecution lessened but never fully stopped.

Even in America, the plight of strong believers is precarious as legal cases against those standing up for their faith mount, writes Lauren Green, Fox News Channel's (FNC) chief religion correspondent.

Regimes throughout the centuries have been stymied by Christians who refuse to denounce their faith in Jesus Christ even when it means death. The repeated scenario was so common that the late second and early third century Christian theologian Tertullian claimed, "The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church."

Even in America, the plight of strong believers is precarious as legal cases against those standing up for their faith mount.

DURING HOLY WEEK, MOST SACRED TIME IN CHRISTIANITY, JESUS WAS ON THE RADAR AS AN ENEMY

Moore blasts the Biden administration  where the White House press secretary could not call the shooting at Covenant School in Nashville a hate crime  even if the shooter's manifesto might reveal a hatred for Christians.

Says Moore, "I never thought I would see the day in the United States when the press secretary to the president of the United States, Democrat or Republican, would be asked on its face whether it would be a hate crime if the manifesto of the killer of those Christians in Tennessee at that Christian school  whether it was a hate crime, if it says in the manifesto that Christians are being targeted. And the press secretary  refuses to answer the question. I mean, this is an indication of where things are."

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Even the leader of a watchdog group that monitors Christian persecution in China says he's getting worried that the U.S. is very close to paralleling the CCP when it comes to religious freedom.

Bob Fu, president of the U.S.-based ChinaAid, told Fox News Digital recently that "the similarities are very, very striking between the Chinese Communist way of persecution and the American leftist way of restriction and even discrimination."

But Moore is confident in the prophetic words of Jesus that "the gates of hell shall not prevail against my church."

Says Moore, "As one theologian once said, five or six centuries ago, the church is an anvil which has worn out many a hammer. And that's definitely what's happening in China."
John Smyth died of a heart attack in 2018, aged 77, at his home in Cape Town, South Africa, before he could face trial

A Church of England review into a sadomasochistic QC who beat dozens of young boys has been delayed after its investigator was forced to call the police with new information.

The Makin Review was first promised in 2018, to investigate the Churchs handling of allegations of abuse carried out by the late John Smyth, who beat boys and young men in the 1970s and 80s.

The disgraced barrister died of a heart attack in 2018, aged 77, at his home in Cape Town, South Africa, before he could face trial.

Smyth was the former chairman of the Iwerne Trust, later known as the Titus Trust, which ran holiday camps for boys at English public schools. These aimed to instil an evangelical ethos into young Christians, with the purpose of inspiring the next generation of future Church of England leaders.

The abuse took place at Smyths home and not at the holiday camps.

The current Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Rev Justin Welby, worked at the camps as a dormitory officer in the 1970s and was acquainted with Smyth, who chaired the trust between 1974 and 1981.

The long-awaited review into Smyths conduct, and the Churchs handling of allegations and disclosures has faced repeated delays.

In December 2022, the Church of Englands National Safeguarding Team (NST) announced that it was reaching its final stages.

But on Tuesday, it emerged that the review has been delayed yet again, because police have been passed extensive information from Keith Makin, a former director of social services, who is now the independent reviewer leading the review.

Every deadline missed

It is not known exactly what information has been passed to police and whom it concerns, but it has affected the planned timescale for completion of the review.

Smyths victims have reacted with dismay to the delay, with one saying: I wonder whether anyone will ever be held to account - every deadline has been missed.

He also accused the Archbishop of Canterbury of offering victims hollow words that amount to meaningless waffle.

Story continues

In May 2021, the Archbishop met met survivors and released a statement offering a full, personal apology regarding the horrendous abuse.

He said: I am sorry this was done in the name of Jesus Christ by a perverted version of spirituality and evangelicalism.

These victims are rightly concerned that no one appears to have faced any sanction yet, when it is clear a number of Christians, clergy and lay, were made aware of the abuse in the 1980s and many learned in subsequent years.

Hollow words

However, the victim, who spoke on condition of anonymity, added: It is now coincidentally almost exactly two years since Archbishop Justin promised the Smyth victims that all who failed to disclose the abuse by John Smyth would be investigated.

Well, two years later, and still not a single person has been held to account. I am not sure what the Archbishop meant by that promise, but to victims they are just hollow words, meaningless waffle.

Victims have repeatedly criticised the review being kicked into the long grass.

It was first promised in August 2018. In 2019, the General Synod, the Churchs legislative body, was told the delay was caused by a failure to secure the cooperation of the key organisations involved - the Titus Trust, Winchester College and the Scripture Union.

Mr Makin was appointed to lead the review later that year and was due to deliver the final report in 2020. However, its completion was further delayed by the pandemic.

Following the announcement of police involvement, Mr Makin said: I have made a report to the police regarding matters that have come to light in recent weeks and in the course of my review into the abuse perpetrated by John Smyth.

I have subsequently passed extensive information to them in relation to this matter. This necessary development is in line with my obligations set out in the terms of reference for the review and in UK law, and is therefore unavoidable.

This impacts on the planned timescale for completion of the review, and I am aware from my regular contact with victims of the distress that this is likely to cause them, their families and others affected by this case.

A further update on this will be provided as soon as possible.
Photo Illustration by Luis G. Rendon/The Daily Beast/Reuters/Pixabay

Clarence Thomas grifting faucet just wont turn off, says an exasperated Danielle Moodie on this episode of The New Abnormal politics podcast.

It was recently revealed that the Supreme Court justice reported income from a firm that doesnt existand hasnt for a while. Moodie, and her co-host Andy Levy, are over this mans antics.

Clarence Thomas and his grifting money-grubbing criminal activity just wont stop. Its like a faucet you cant turn off, says Danielle. I dont know how you continue to receive paychecks from a place that doesn't exist, but evidently you can. He continued to report income that was between $50,000 and $100,000 annually in recent years. I know weve been living inside of a time vortex, but Im pretty sure 2006 and 2023 and recent years dont coincide.

Subscribe to The New Abnormal on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Amazon Music, or Overcast.

Theyre also not confident anyone is going to hold Thomas accountable.

Are we really gonna start going after a guy for making an honest mistake 17 years in a row? Is that not a common thing for people to do, to make the same mistake 17 times in a row on a federal form and then sign it attesting to the truthfulness of that form? Andy jokes.

But then, he gets serious.

Im certainly not sitting here and youre certainly not sitting here saying that the same standard shouldnt be applied to the other eight justices, but so far its Clarence Thomas who has a repeated pattern of this, Andy adds, and shares a few examples of Thomas conveniently forgetting to disclose very important things.

MAGA Loser Wants It to Be Illegal for Women to Own Dogs

Later, Spencer Ackerman, columnist for The Nation and writer of the Forever Wars newsletter, joins the show and breaks down the case of Jack Teixeira, the 21-year-old Air National Guardsman accused of leaking classified documents. While a leak did happen, Ackerman explains how this one is much different than the whistleblowing cases of Chelsea Manning and Edward Snowden.

Story continues

Then, George M. Johnson, author of All Boys Arent Blue, one of the now-many banned books in America, shares with co-host Danielle what its like to be the author of a banned book and the most fascinating and mind-boggling thing about Republican behavior.

Listen to this full episode of The New Abnormal on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon and Stitcher.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now.

Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now.
International passenger service adds new vitality to China-Laos Railway

09:05, April 18, 2023 By Wang Yantian, Sun Guangyong ( People's Daily

Train D887 runs on a bridge along the China-Laos Railway in Jinghong, southwest China's Yunnan province, April 13. (People's Daily Online/Li Yunsheng)

On the morning of April 13, 2023, an olive green Fuxing bullet train was ready to leave the Kunming South Railway Station, southwest China's Yunnan province, and kick off the cross-border passenger service of the China-Laos Railway.

The D887 high-speed train officially departed at 8:08 am and went all the way south, carrying the joy of both the Chinese and Lao peoples. An hour later, the D888 train left Vientiane for Kunming.

Now it takes passengers only less than a day to go from Kunming to the Lao capital, or the other way around, which has injected new vitality to the China-Laos Railway, a railway of friendship.

The China-Laos Railway was officially put into use on Dec. 3, 2021. Linking China's Kunming, Pu'er and Xishuangbanna, as well as Luang Prabang and Vientiane of Laos, it has become a golden logistics channel that connects China and Laos and even Southeast Asia at large after 16 months of operation. It vitalizes regional economic and trade cooperation and exchanges.

"The shipping cost for cargo transport between Kunming and Vientiane has been lowered by 40 percent to 50 percent since the China-Laos Railway opened, and that for domestic shipping in Laos by 20 percent to 40 percent," said Jin Zhiyuan, general manager of Sinotrans, a major freight service provider along the China-Laos Railway. According to him, the company will send over 100 containers to China through the railway.

Passenger train D888 along the China-Laos Railway arrives in Mohan, southwest China's Yunnan province, April 13. (People's Daily Online/Shi Jiamin)

So far, 25 Chinese provinces have launched cross-border trains along the China-Laos Railway, which reach Laos, Thailand, Myanmar, Malaysia, Cambodia, Singapore and other countries and regions along the Belt and Road. The number of cargo categories has been expanded from 10 to over 2,000, including electronic and photovoltaic products as well as cold-chain fruits. The value of cargos transported has exceeded 17 billion yuan ($2.48 billion).

The transport efficiency and capacity of the China-Laos Railway have significantly improved. The time of customs clearance for cargos transported along the route has been reduced to five hours from more than 40.

The potential of this railway has been constantly released since this year. In the first quarter, the railway transported 5.16 million tons of cargos, up 215 percent year on year. In particular, 1.1 million tons were transnational, which was nearly three times the amount from a year ago.

The cross-border passenger service launched this time is of important significance to facilitating the flow of people along the railway and to promoting the development of the Chinese and Lao tourism.

It is learned that a train departs from both Kunming and Vientiane each day, and the whole trip costs 10.5 hours, including the time spent on going through customs.

A container loaded with fresh fruits is being lifted in Chengdu, capital of southwest China's Sichuan province, Dec. 8, 2022. It is among the first deliveries of imported fruits to Sichuan province via the China-Laos Railway. (People's Daily Online/Bai Guibin)

"To better serve cross-border passengers, there are Chinese and Lao standard power sockets under each set of chairs on the train, and information display, radio and service signs are offered in Chinese, Lao and English," said Zhao Yingjing, conductor of the first cross-border passenger train along the railway.

It is reported that the tickets for the passenger service were sold out in just 20 minutes after they were released.

"The tourism industry has sensed the new market created by the China-Laos international passenger service," said Yang Jiechen, head of a Thailand-based tourism company. According to him, the train trip from China's Mohan port to Laos and Thailand is expected to become a hot tourism route.

The China-Laos Railway, like a "key" to the Indochina Peninsula, has opened an economic channel connecting China, Southeast Asia and South Asia.

The railway not only has improved the transport infrastructure of Laos, but also will drive the country's economic development, said a Lao PhD student of Yunnan University, who names himself Wen Pengyu in Chinese.

(Web editor: Chang Sha, Du Mingming)
Mr Jones said they needed to make plans to help the island reach net zero by 2050

A Jersey climate change charity has announced a "reboot" to improve the way it helps the island to tackle the crisis.

Jersey in Transition (JiT) said progress globally was a "continual disappointment".

The charity, which was established 13 years ago, said it had been "fairly dormant" in recent years, partly due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

It said it needed to make plans to help the island reach net zero by 2050.

'New ideas'

In September 2022 the government of Jersey appointed its first energy and climate change minister to focus on the task.

Nigel Jones, chair of Jersey in Transition, told the BBC: "In the last few years we've been fairly dormant initially because of Covid, however the climate crisis and the biodiversity crisis has been getting more and more imminent...

"So now is the time when we really need to be putting new ideas into action and coming up with further ideas for how we're going to tackle this."

He said he wanted to relaunch the charity, starting at its annual general meeting on Tuesday.

Follow BBC Jersey on Twitter and Facebook. Send your story ideas to channel.islands@bbc.co.uk
Controversial plans to extend the working life of the UK's largest opencast mine should be rejected, council planning officials have advised.

The operators of Ffos-y-Fran mine near Merthyr Tydfil want to keep excavating coal until the end of March 2024.

But a report published ahead of a planning committee meeting next week says councillors should turn them down.

The company operating the mine has been asked to comment.

Planning permission for coalmining at Ffos-y-Fran expired on 6 September 2022 after 15 years.

But days before the deadline, Merthyr (South Wales) Ltd said it was seeking an extension - initially for nine months, then subsequently amended to 18.

It also wanted to push back the date for final restoration of the site to 30 June 2026.

This would allow for a further 240,000 tonnes of coal to be extracted and offer time to prepare a revised plan for the site restoration due to "insufficient funds" having been set aside, the company said.

The Welsh government's coal policy prevents the development of any new coal mines or the expansion of existing ones apart from in "wholly exceptional circumstances".

The company operating the mine argued it should be considered "nationally significant" due to its role in supplying a local source of coal for Tata's Port Talbot steelworks.

But Judith Jones, head of planning at Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council (MTCBC), said in a report that the applicant did not qualify.

The mine claimed that the carbon footprint of transporting coal from Ffos-y-Fran to Port Talbot was five times less than exporting it from countries like Venezuela or Australia, but had not supported this with "any definitive evidence", she said.

"On that basis, it cannot be concluded that the extraction is needed in the context of decarbonisation and climate change emission reductions targets."

Story continues

Claims that the applicant could not adequately fund the restoration of the site were also dismissed.

The report concluded that "no local or community benefits would be provided that clearly outweigh the disadvantages of the lasting environmental harm of the development."

The council's planning committee will meet on Wednesday 26 April to discuss the application, more than seven months after it was submitted.

Climate campaigners said last week they were considering legal action over claims of ongoing mining on the site.

Haf Elgar, director of Friends of the Earth Cymru, said the organisation was "very pleased" with Merthyr Tydfil council's assessment.

"This has gone on for long enough and must be stopped now - for the sake of local residents suffering from the impacts of noise and air pollution, and for the sake of the planet," she said.

"We're in a climate emergency and coal is part of our heritage not our future. We urge councillors in Merthyr to follow their officers advice at their meeting next week and reject this application."

A spokesperson for Merthyr (South Wales) Ltd said: "As we have received confirmation that solicitors are involved for the campaigners and proceedings are being contemplated we consider it inappropriate to comment at this point."
Salem may be synonymous with witch trials, but the superstitious practice has its origins elsewhere.

Decades before the Massachusetts town was swept by mass hysteria, colonial Americas first convicted witches were sent to the gallows in Connecticut.

Now  over three centuries later  these condemned individuals, many of whom were women of humble means, might have their names cleared. After a yearslong push from activists, a resolution has been put before the state legislature that would exonerate them of their alleged crimes and apologize to their descendants.

Its a token resolution of remorse basically for the families of the victims, saying were sorry this happened to you; it was an injustice, Beth Caruso, co-founder of the Connecticut Witch Trial Exoneration Project, an organization that has lobbied for the resolution, told McClatchy News.

This is part of Connecticuts history, Caruso said. We embrace the wonderful things about colonial history, but often the darker parts are ignored.

Americas first witch trials

Witchcraft  which involved consorting with the devil  was criminalized by the English parliament during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I and was considered a capital offense in the New England colonies, according to a 2006 Office of Legislative Research (OLR) report.

The law was first enforced in 1647 when a Connecticut woman named Alse Young was tried and executed, making her the first person put to death for witchcraft in America, according to a state judicial branch report. A town administrator briefly noted the event in his diary, writing, Alse Young was hanged.

In total, at least 34 Connecticut colonists were indicted on witchcraft charges and 11 were executed between 1647 and 1665, according to the resolution. Of those who were killed, nine were women and two were men.

The women were mostly middle-aged and of low social status, while the men were relatives of accused women  thus a matter of literal guilt by association, John Demos, a historian and author of two books on witch hunts, told McClatchy News in an email.

Story continues

The reasons for womens predominance are deeply psychological, I believe  with misogyny, in both men and women, as the galvanizing force, Demos said.

The intensely religious colonists blamed suspected witches for natural disasters, diseases and other misfortunes, according to the OLR report.

Trials were initiated after a formal complaint was lodged, and a single witness testimony was enough to attain a conviction, according to the report.

If a guilty verdict was reached, the accused individual was hanged to death, Demos said.

Connecticut proved to be much harsher in its treatment of suspected witches than Massachusetts, Walt Woodward, the state historian emeritus said in a 2021 lecture, per a video posted on YouTube. Whereas in Massachusetts a person had a fifty-fifty chance of gaining their freedom, to be indicted for witchcraft in Connecticut during those early years was simply a death sentence.

Exoneration effort

For years, a group of activists has lobbied the state of Connecticut to acknowledge these early injustices with little luck, Tony Griego, a retired police sergeant and co-founder of the Connecticut Witch Trial Exoneration Project, told McClatchy News.

Many of the elected officials that we wrote to over the years didnt return our letters, Griego said.

In 2016, he and Caruso, the author of several historical novels on witch trials, founded the Facebook page CT Witch Memorial to promote awareness of the trials.

The pair began to hear from descendants of both condemned witches and perpetrators, who were asking for something to be done to clear their ancestors names, Caruso said.

After a continued lobbying effort, several state legislators showed interest in the groups request, and a resolution was drafted last year, Caruso said.

The state judiciary committee overwhelmingly voted to approve the resolution in March, clearing the way for it to be brought before the state house and senate this session.

Opponents to the resolution have said that it distracts from more pressing issues affecting living individuals, Caruso said.

People have said why not talk about current injustices, like the disparities of people in our jails, Caruso said. We totally agree that those things should be addressed. But its not like empathy is finite. Its a false argument that you have to choose one or the other.

Others have argued that because Connecticut was an English colony at the time of the trials, the state bears no responsibility, Griego said.

In response, Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz, an advocate of the resolution, told McClatchy News, Some of the people who participated in the trials actually became leaders of our state, adding, Who was in charge really doesnt matter. We should just take responsibility and tell the world what really happened because we all know.

Beyond absolving the deceased, there are other reasons to pass the resolution that could have implications for the modern world, Bysiewicz said.

There are still some countries that have these witchcraft laws on the books, so we should take leadership and hopefully those countries change their laws, Bysiewicz said.

Thousands of people worldwide are accused of witchcraft every year, often resulting in their death or mutilation, according to the United Nations. Women, children and people with disabilities like albinism are especially vulnerable.

And also, in light of women being attacked in federal courts, state courts and state legislatures, I think its important to stand up for them, Bysiewicz said.

Exterminator convinced widow he was her son  and stole $1.2 million from her, feds say

1,600-year-old temple to mysterious Roman god unearthed in Germany. Take a look

Ancient woman had serious leg injury. Then she grew a rope-like bone, experts say
A Colorado middle school principal asked parents to step in and guard the school after two administrators were shot by a student in the area.

McAuliffe International School Principal Kurt Dennis sent a letter to parents in which he asked for volunteers to check student IDs and guard the doors at the Denver middle school.

"Our hope is that if enough adults sign up for a volunteer shift, we can address these areas for the duration of this school year," Dennis said in the letter, according to local 9News.

Dennis' letter, which was sent to families Friday, laid out "near-term improvements" to shore up school safety in the wake of a student at nearby East High School who opened fire on two people who were searching him for weapons last month.

Dennis told the outlet that his school has to pat down a student every day who was accused of attempted first-degree murder and illegal discharge of a firearm.

OHIO SCHOOL DISTRICT ALLOWS STAFF TO BE ARMED: OUR SCHOOLS WILL NO LONGER BE SOFT TARGETS

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

The principal explained in his letter that the school is seeking adults who are willing to be posted at the school doors throughout the day to ensure they are locked, as well as someone who can stay at the front entrance and run student IDs through a security system to check if they are permitted in the building.

Adults who take on the volunteer role will reportedly be decked out in bright yellow vests to indicate who they are.

Dennis also wrote that hoodies will no longer be a part of the middle school uniform because of the ability of students to hide things in them.

TEXAS SCHOOL DISTRICT APPROVES POLICY ALLOWING SOME EMPLOYEES TO BE ARMED

McAuliffe International School Principal Kurt Dennis' letter comes in the wake of a student at nearby East High School shooting two administrators who were searching him for weapons last month.

"Students wearing hoodies are difficult to recognize, and the pockets in front are used to store items out of sight from our staff," Dennis said. "Fortunately, crew neck sweatshirts are back in style, so hopefully, students won't protest this change in fashion too much."

Paul Ballenger, a father of a McAuliffe student, told the outlet that the move is "likely a step in the right direction."

Story continues

"I know I have seen a lot of parents who really do want to try to help," Ballenger said. "They don't know how to help."

Denver Public Schools is slated to roll out new safety changes in the district in a plan that will be released in May.

"I do feel better, but at the same time I feel the district there's a tremendous amount of work to be done," the father added.

Denver Public Schools is slated to roll out new safety changes in the district in a plan that will be released on May 1, with a final version coming out on June 26, 9News reported.
Columbus police say Kevin J. Smith, 60, shown here, was fatally shot Saturday by a South Side homeowner who first reported a trespasser and then reported he had shot the trespasser. This photo of Smith, who was shot inside the garage at the home, was released by police in late June 2022 when Smith had been reported missing. He was later found in early July.

The Franklin County Coroner's Office has identified a man whom Columbus police say was initially reported as a trespasser Saturday and then fatally shot minutes later in the garage at a South Side home.

Just after 6 a.m. Saturday, police were called to a residence in the 600 block of East Whittier Street in the Southern Orchards neighborhood on a report of a trespasser. Before officers arrived at the scene, there was another 911 call reporting a homeowner had shot the alleged trespasser.

Responding officers arrived to find the alleged trespasser dead in the detached garage from gunshot wounds.

The Franklin County Coroner's Office on Tuesday identified the alleged trespasser as 60-year-old Kevin J. Smith, city homicide detectives announced Monday.

Police had sought the public's help late last June in finding Smith, who had been reported missing from the Brewery District. He was later located in early July, a Columbus homicide detective said Tuesday.

Smith's family had not indicated to police that he had any medical condition like Alzheimer's or dementia, the detective said.

The homeowner involved in the shooting has not been identified by police and no charges have been filed in connection with the shooting. An investigation by city homicide detectives continues.

The Dispatch spoke with three neighborhood residents on Sunday morning who did not want to give their names. One said the shooting was surprising and shocking. A man who said his family has lived in that part of town for years said he feels comfortable in his neighborhood.

"It's happening everywhere," he said of the shooting.

The police homicide unit is investigating. Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call Columbus police homicide at 614-645-4730 or Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at (614) 461-TIPS (8477).

shendrix@dispatch.com

@sheridan120

cbehrens@dispatch.com

@colebehr_report

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Columbus police identify man fatally shot in garage of South Side homeowner
Democratic Sen. Dianne Feinstein has long had an uneasy relationship with her party's left wing. Some now seek to exploit her illness to force Feinstein out and replace her with someone more liberal. (Kent Nishimura / Los Angeles Times)

Dianne Feinstein wished to make a statement.

The former San Francisco mayor was running for California governor and, knowing she would never win the endorsement of the far left, chose instead to stick those activists in the eye.

"Yes, I support the death penalty," Feinstein told fellow Democrats at the party's state convention. "It is an issue that cannot be fudged or hedged."

A chorus of boos sounded like thunder. Feinstein stared straight ahead, unblinking, for nearly 30 seconds as the fury washed over her. (Meantime, cameras rolled to capture the made-for-TV moment, intended to dispel the notion of Feinstein as some kooky San Francisco liberal.)

That was back in 1990. But for some Democrats, the anger never let up.

And now, with Feinstein ailing, some of her ideological foes are hoping to exploit the moment by agitating for the senator's resignation and replacement with someone more to their liking, which is to say further to the political left.

A favorite is Oakland's Rep. Barbara Lee, a declared candidate to replace Feinstein  and, it should be noted, not among those calling for the senator to immediately stand aside.

The time may soon come for the 89-year-old Feinstein to call it a career, despite her deep reluctance. Gov. Gavin Newsom, who would pick her replacement, should then resist efforts on the left to hijack the Senate seat by appointing Lee or some other uber-liberal.

He should appoint a caretaker who agrees to finish out Feinstein's term, which ends in January 2025, and leave it to voters to sort among several candidates bidding to be her long-term successor.

Feinstein's decline has been well noted. It's not cognitive issues, however, but a bad case of shingles that has kept her housebound in California, a continent away from her responsibilities in Washington. Feinstein hasn't cast a Senate vote since mid-February.

Plenty of senators have been absent for extended periods. Pennsylvania Democrat John Fetterman, who was just elected in November, spent more than six weeks in the hospital being treated for severe depression. Republican Leader Mitch McConnell returned to the Senate Monday after a six-week recovery from a fall.

Story continues

Feinstein's nonattendance has been more acutely felt because of her role on the Senate Judiciary Committee. Without her presence, Democrats have been unable to confirm a backlog of President Bidens judicial nominees, an important part of his agenda and a high priority for the party given President Trump's rightward reshaping of the federal courts.

In a concession  the latest, after declining to seek reelection  Feinstein last week asked the Senate's Democratic leader to appoint a temporary replacement on the committee until she can return to Washington. That, however, requires consent from a significant number of Republicans, which seems quite unlikely.

So Feinstein may face a choice: Head back to Capitol Hill, whatever physical difficulties it entails, or continue being a hindrance to her party and president.

Even those sympathetic to the senator, who smell more than a whiff of ageism and misogyny in calls for her resignation, suggest Feinstein cannot and should not attempt to serve out her term convalescing in San Francisco.

"We are going to need her vote on the Senate floor eventually, said Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), adding that Feinstein's return sure better happen before the debt ceiling vote."

If Feinstein were to step down, it would present Newsom with a quandary he has largely visited upon himself.

When Sen. Kamala Harris resigned to become vice president, the governor named Alex Padilla as her replacement. Newsom was criticized for failing to appoint a Black woman, filling a void Harris left with her departure and so, in a characteristically rash move, Newsom pledged to do just that if Feinstein were to vacate her seat.

Lee fits the specifications, as a Black woman with deep political experience.

But it's different now with a hard-fought Senate campaign underway. Irvine Rep. Katie Porter and Burbank's Adam B. Schiff are both strong contenders for the seat. The governor shouldn't be substituting his judgment for that of voters by giving an advantage to Lee or any other candidate with the primary election less than a year off.

Feinstein never found favor with the far left. Too conservative, relatively speaking. Too proper and prim.

But for much of her career, she was the most popular politician in California, her positions  such as support for the death penalty  closely aligning with those of the state's political mainstream.

Even as Feinstein sought reelection in 2018 at age 85, when her infirmity was no secret, she easily turned aside a challenge from the more liberal Kevin de Leon.

So it's no coincidence the loudest voices now calling for Feinstein's ouster are coming from the left, chief among them Rep. Ro Khanna, a Bernie Sanders Democrat and co-chair of Lee's Senate campaign.

Lee is deeply beloved in her East Bay Area district and greatly respected by Democrats she has served alongside. It's questionable, though, whether her politics will prove palatable to voters statewide.

When Newsom was fighting an attempted recall, Democrats were quick to condemn it as a power grab and an effort by Republicans to seize an office they would otherwise have a hard time winning under normal circumstances. It's no different when liberal Democrats try to short-circuit the process.

Lee should make her best case as a candidate for the Senate seat, without intervention from the governor.

Then voters can decide.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Community Health System board chair Farid Assemi has stepped down from the hospital board and has handed over the chair role to a person who lives out of state.

Assemi, a prominent local developer and farmer, is ending his trustee service and transitioning the chairman role to Roger Sturdevant, who was serving as the chair elect, according to an updated biographical description that appeared on the hospital boards online page.

The message doesnt say what prompted Assemi to step down or when exactly that decision was made. But Sturdevant, according to the message, assumed his role as chairman beginning on April 12  the same day The Bee had given the hospital to respond by the end of the day to questions for a story about its board.

CHS, formerly known as Community Medical Centers, is the regions largest healthcare provider and operates four Fresno-area medical facilities: Fresno Heart and Surgical Hospital, Community Behavioral Health Center, Clovis Community Medical Center and Community Regional Medical Center in downtown Fresno.

Sturdevant, a retired Bank of the West executive, doesnt live in the community CHS serves. He registered to vote in Chippewa County, Michigan, in May 2018, according to online records. His voting registration is currently active in Chippewa County. Other public records show that he owns a home in Chippewa County and another one in Clovis. For the November 2022 elections, Sturdevant voted in Michigan, public records show.

While we thank Mr. Assemi for his service, it is alarming that the future of our communitys flagship hospital is in the hands of an out-of-state retired banker, Fresno city councilmember Miguel Arias told The Bee. This action continues a troubling pattern of excluding local community stewards from the boards critical oversight role, increasing the distance  literally and figuratively  between the leadership of our publicly-funded hospital and the people it serves.

Sturdevant hasnt responded to inquiries by The Bee seeking comment. Sturdevants residency was among a series of questions The Bee provided to CHS and its board that focused more broadly on the boards makeup during Assemis tenure as chairman.

Story continues

Michelle Von Tersch, a spokeswoman for CHS, said neither bylaws or IRS rules require trustees to be full-time residents of Fresno County.

Assemi was at the center of Care & Conflict, an investigation by The Fresno Bee that found CHS used federal and state funding generated by the downtown Fresno hospital for treating Medi-Cal and underinsured patients to fund a massive expansion of its suburban Clovis campus. Less than a mile away from the Clovis hospital sits California Health Sciences University  a for-profit medical school owned by Assemi and Flo Dunn, another longtime CHS board member who continues to sit in on board meetings as a guest.

For several years, CHS had plans to build two new patient towers at its downtown hospital in order to bring its aging facilities into compliance with earthquake standards. But those towers were never built there.

The new patient towers were built at the Clovis campus as part of the explosive expansion. Meanwhile, the downtown Fresno hospital now risks losing 90% of its acute care beds if its deteriorating buildings dont see major upgrades by 2030.

Assemi had served on CHS board since 2009

Dunn recruited Assemi to join a CHS board committee around 2006, and he subsequently became a full board member in 2009. Dunn is Assemis friend and former banker. She also serves as president of the for-profit medical school she owns with Assemi.

In January 2020, Assemi became board chair.

CHS officials have said that board members serve on the board for three, three-year terms, but can be reappointed for up to four consecutive terms, meaning 12 years. However, when CHS last year was asked by The Bee why Assemi was continuing to serve on the board if his 12 years had ended in 2021, Von Tersch said his term had been extended.

Per Communitys corporate bylaws, board chairs can serve for five, three-year terms if their fourth term concludes while serving as board chair, she said in April 2022.
Nearly one year after a student was stabbed to death at Stagg High School, Stockton residents gathered with city leaders again Monday night following the slaying of a second high school student on April 12.

"I, too, have been to too many funerals of my students over the years," Traci Miller, interim superintendent of Stockton Unified School District, told the roughly 150 people gathered at the Arnold Rue Community Center.

Cesar Chavez High School student Thai Khin, 17, was shot to death on April 12 during a robbery at a park across the street from Chavez, police said.

He is the second Stockton student within a year to be killed near their campus during school hours: Stagg student Alycia Reynaga was killed on campus on April 18, 2022.

At the town hall Monday  led by Mayor Kevin Lincoln, Councilman Dan Wright, and police and school district  Khin's death resurfaced frustrations about mistrust in city, police, and school officials and gun violence across Stockton the country.

"We as the community need to know more about what's happening behind the scenes," Yesica Avendano, a teacher and parent of a Chavez student, said. "We just hear gossip."

Khin's death came amid the April 12 resignation of Chavez principal Cynthia Cardenas Sanchez, who resigned after a year on the job, claiming she was forced out.

With her resignation, half of Stockton Unifieds comprehensive high schools are now engaged in a leadership shake-up that could impact thousands of students fall.

Avendano said she worried about her child's safety at Chavez. "There are days where I'm like ... I hope I don't get that phone call."

In the days following Khin's death, students expressed sadness and anger about the regularity of shootings in Stockton. Across the U.S., Ellena Bivens, who teaches A.P. literature at Chavez, said.

"It was a lot of anger," Bivens said. "This is the elephant in the room. This is a nationwide problem."

Story continues

Multiple people argued a lack of safe places for young people to play and work outside school put them at risk.

"We're trying to restore all those services that were knocked away during bankruptcy," Wright said. "But it's not going to happen overnight."

"They cut class at 2:30; they hang out at the park," Lamar Scott, parent of a former Chavez student, said.

"We're all here, but where're the kids? Who's listening to the kids?"

The city has extended outreach from the Office for Violence Prevention to children as young as 12, Lincoln said. It's also pursuing a $4.3 million workforce development program for people between the ages of 16 and 29  the age group most impacted by gun violence in Stockton, he said.

"We have the same vested interests ... we want to put our money -- your taxpayer money -- where our mouth is."

Record reporter Aaron Leathley covers public safety. She can be reached at aleathley@recordnet.com or on Twitter @LeathleyAaron. To support local news, subscribe to The Stockton Record at https://www.recordnet.com/subscribenow.

This article originally appeared on The Record: Community reacts to Stockton student's killing at town hall
The Indian Ocean archipelago of the Comoros is urging France to step back from a looming operation that could see the forced return of illegal migrants from the neighbouring French island of Mayotte.

Authorities in Mayotte are expected to launch Operation Wuambushu ("Take back") on April 20, after the end of Ramadan.

Its goal is to remove illegal migrants who have settled in slums in Mayotte and send those without papers back to the Comoran island of Anjouan, 70 kilometres (45 miles) away.

The operation was approved by French President Emmanuel Macron in February.

"We strongly recommend the French drop Operation Wuambushu," Comoros government spokesman Houmed Msaidie said on Tuesday.

Anjouan governor Anissi Chamsidine said the island was unable to "cope with the violence created from Mayotte by the French state."

Comoros' President, Azali Assoumani, who is currently visiting Saudi Arabia, last week told AFP he hoped the plan would be dropped, but acknowledged he lacked "the means to stop the operation through force."

On March 18, Macron, in a phone call with Assoumani, expressed "concern regarding the social and security situation in Mayotte," according to a readout by the French presidential palace.

Mayotte and the three islands of the present-day Comoros were French territories until 1975.

Following a referendum, three islands -- Grande Comore, Moheli and Anjouan -- declared themselves to be a separate country, the Union of the Comoros.

But Mayotte voted to remain a French overseas territory and later became a French department -- a status rejected by the Comoros, which continues to claim the island.

Mayotte is France's poorest department with around 80 percent of the population living beneath the poverty line and high levels of social delinquency.

But it also benefits from French infrastructure support and welfare, and this has caused an influx from the Comoros, with many migrants attempting the hazardous crossing on rickety boats used by smugglers.

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- 'Massacre waiting to happen' -

Around half of Mayotte's roughly 300,000 population is estimated to be foreign, most of them Comoran.

In 2019, France stepped up efforts to stem the flow, strengthening sea patrols that are supported by air surveillance.

In 2022, those resources facilitated the interception of 571 boats carrying 8,000 migrants. A total of 25,380 people were removed last year, mostly to the Comoros.

On April 5, civil society groups in Comoros warned that Operation Wuambushu was a "massacre waiting to happen" and urged international organisations to intervene.

Prominent figures in Mayotte have also spoken out, including Jean-Marie Burguburu, chairman of the National Consultative Commission on Human Rights.

He wrote to Gerald Darmanin, the French minister of the interior and overseas territories, to say the clampdown risked "worsening social tensions and divisions in a context that is already very fragile."

"Mass expulsions" would also "infringe respect for the fundamental rights of foreigners," he said.

str-cld/cw/ri
Over the past month, U.S. lawmakers proposed separate pieces of legislation to restrict the presidents ability to sell weapons to other countries. Further congressional action on such transfers may be spurred with recent news that Egypt planned to covertly send rockets to Russia and that the Biden administration may try to override congressional restrictions on foreign aid to Ukraine.

Regardless, flaws in existing legislation, ideological divisions and the executive veto over foreign policy issues make enacting new laws that restrict arms transfers unlikely.

State Dept. approves US arms sales to Switzerland, Lithuania, Belgium

U.S. arms transfers are a foreign policy tool over which the executive branch has curiously managed to claim almost all authority. In fact, Congress has never successfully stopped an arms sale. While the president has the power to veto any legislation from Congress, the legislature has no ability to veto the president.

Members of Congress have introduced two pieces of legislation that would broadly restrict the presidents power over weapons transfers. First, Senators Chris Murphy (D-CT) and Mike Lee (R-UT) proposed a resolution that would use Section 502B of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to force the State Department to issue a human rights report on Saudi Arabia.

Suspension provision

This little-known amendment allows Congress to request such a report and pass a joint resolution to end this aid if the arms transfer recipient abuses human rights. If the report is not provided in 30 days, then aid being delivered to the country in question is suspended. The current resolutions goal is to stop sending military aid to Riyadh.

Success is unlikely, as a joint resolution needs a veto-proof majority. Because it is legislation, the president can still veto such a measure, which seems likely given his apparent desire to continue arming the Saudis.

Furthermore, the potential of the legislative veto found in Section 502B rests on shaky legal precedent that the Supreme Court has never reviewed. The Supreme Court has, however, ruled the president must be given the opportunity to use his veto power on a bill before it is enacted into law, rendering any legislative veto  including 502Bs 30-day legislative veto  unconstitutional.

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The second piece of legislation was introduced by Representative Gregory Meeks (D-NY) and is known as the Safeguarding Human Rights in Arms Exports Act of 2023. This legislation would expand the Leahy Laws, which govern U.S. security assistance and prevent the U.S. from sending defense articles to individual military units within a country that commit gross violations of human rights. The expansion would place these restrictions on arms sales in addition to security assistance.

This legislation has a better chance of passing because much its language codifies elements already contained in Bidens newly-released Conventional Arms Transfer (CAT) policy. It is therefore less likely for Biden to veto legislation that lines up with his previously stated policy goals.

Nonetheless, hawkish House Republicans will likely oppose the legislation. Thus, to succeed, members of Congress supporting the Safeguarding Human Rights in Arms Exports Act will likely need to moderate this legislation to restrict Biden, while not stopping arms transfers to countries that House Republicans view as key to their foreign policy.

Leahy Laws

The Leahy Laws themselves came into being in this way when former Senator Patrick Leahy (D-VT) limited his legislation to units rather than entire countries, which he initially proposed. By moderating the restrictions, Leahy allowed congressional Republicans to feel like they were restricting President Bill Clinton without changing their foreign policy.

There are two possible upcoming debates over executive authority on arms transfers that may also lead to legislation. The first involves the Biden administration attempting to avoid congressional opposition to funding Ukraine through Lend-Lease provisions passed last year. Republican control over the House, combined with executive overreach, may sour congressional opinion of this provision and lead to an overturn of the Lend-Lease provisions for Ukraine.

The second possible debate is that Egypt, who has purchased over $5.8 billion in U.S. weapons and received over $1.3 billion in security assistancesince January 2022, covertly produced weaponsfor Russia to use against Ukraine. In both cases, Congress has previously failed to legislate against the president.

Congress has shown through its recent actions that it wants to more power over the U.S. arms transfers. Regardless, flaws in the proposed legislation, ideological divisions, and executive power over foreign policy make enactment unlikely. As a result, those waiting for Congress to successfully restrict the president on arms transfers might want to pull up a comfy chair, pick out a few podcast series to listen to, and get ready to wait a while.

Jordan Cohen is a policy analyst at the Cato Institute and a Ph.D. candidate in political science at George Mason University.

Jonathan Ellis Allen is a research associate and producer at the Cato Institute.

Have an opinion?

This article is an Op-Ed and the opinions expressed are those of the author. If you would like to respond, or have an editorial of your own you would like to submit, please email C4ISRNET and Federal Times Senior Managing Editor Cary OReilly.
Tom Kimber from Wincanton has 200 cows

A dairy farmer says he is on a "knife edge" as the price of milk drops.

Tom Kimber, who has 200 dairy cows at Wincanton, Somerset, and supplies cheesemaker Barber's of Shepton Mallet, said he was losing 400 per day and was set to lose 160,000 this year.

The farmgate price of milk has been falling since February after reaching a record high in 2022.

"We have had a 20% cut in price over the last three months and we haven't hit the bottom yet," said Mr Kimber.

Planning for the future was a "nightmare", he said, with fluctuating milk prices leaving farmers "scratching their heads" on how to save money.

Mr Kimber's dairy cows produce milk for a nearby cheesemaker

"It's unsustainable at this price. You can't stay below your cost of production for too many months," he said.

Mr Kimber said the cost-of-living crisis meant people were buying supermarket own-brand cheese, affecting farmgate milk prices.

This week supermarkets Aldi, Lidl and Asda joined rivals Sainsbury's and Tesco in cutting the price of milk by at least 5p because the cost of buying milk in was dropping.

Alex Stevens, regional policy manager for the National Farmers' Union, said milk prices were dropping regardless of where farmers were supplying their milk.

He said the price per litre was hovering around 40p currently, having reached over 50p last year.

He added prices were dropping "very quickly" in part because milk supply increased in the summer months, and due to the cost-of-living crisis prompting a change in buying habits.

"We're seeing consumers buying slightly less of the really high-value products like cheeses or yoghurts which has an impact as well," he said.

"It's quite a quick drop and it's a big percentage change for farmers, and at the same time their cost of producing the milk is going up or staying the same," Mr Stevens said.

The NFU was expecting some farmers to leave the industry, he said.

The milk produced by the farm is used to produce West Country cheese

Mr Kimber added: "Once again we're on a knife-edge.

"It just takes your confidence away to invest; to push forward. We're coming under increasing pressure... money needs to be spent but you've got to have the confidence to go to the bank, borrow that money and know you'll be able to pay it back."

Mr Kimber said the increased price of labour was also squeezing farmers, with many considering reducing the size of their herds or number of labourers.

Follow BBC West on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Send your story ideas to: bristol@bbc.co.uk
Scottish Borders Council opposed the scheme in 2014

A council has dropped its opposition to a wind farm in southern Scotland after almost a decade.

The local authority in the Scottish Borders originally objected to the scheme in Cloich Forest in 2014.

However, work on the scheme - which was subsequently approved by the Scottish government - has never started.

Revised plans have now been submitted and the council has decided not to oppose them this time around.

The proposals near Eddleston have a lengthy planning history.

In 2012, the Ministry of Defence opposed 18-turbine plans amid fears of their impact on its seismic monitoring station at Eskdalemuir.

Two years later Scottish Borders Council decided to object as well due to concerns over landscape impact.

A public inquiry was held and the Scottish government ruled the project could go ahead in 2016.

One condition of the approval was that work had to start within five years - which was extended to six due to the Covid pandemic - but that has now lapsed.

Fresh plans have been put forward which would see the number of turbines cut to 12.

Concerns remain about the "significant landscape and visual impacts" on the area.

However, a report to councillors highlighted that National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4) reforms - which were approved this year - meant they had to give "significant weight" to a scheme's contribution to meeting renewable energy targets.

It concluded that the benefits outweighed the negatives and the local authority should not oppose the project this time around.
Tarrant County Election Administrator Heider Garcia recently spoke in support of countywide voting before a panel of lawmakers, a policy on which he and County Judge Tim OHare seem to differ.

Garcia, who in a Sunday letter said hes resigning as election administrator, told the Senate State Affairs Committee in March that he opposes a bill to get rid of countywide voting in Texas. The program allows voters to cast ballots at any polling location, rather than in their specific precinct.

Tarrant County is among more than 90 counties with countywide voting.

Garcia, speaking on behalf of himself and the Texas Association of Election Administrators, told senators the group believes the policy does a lot of good while causing no harm.

The way we see it, we already do vote centers for two weeks during early voting, Garcia said during the March 27 hearing. We allow voters to go anywhere, so we already have all the technology and all the resources we need to do the program.

There are no compromises in security or chain of custody of the ballots, added Garcia, the associations vice president. Rolling back the program could also lead to more expenses for some counties as they try to change course, including potentially purchasing more voting machines after downsizing the number of polling places.

But OHare at a recent True Texas Project event said he would be open to eliminating countrywide voting.

He was asked about eliminating countrywide voting and doing a partial manual count of ballots.

So the answer to those questions, not necessarily specifically, exactly what you said, is: Im open to anything and everything is on the table, OHare said. I have not come up with a specific, I will not do this, I will not do that.

In responding to the questions about voting and ballot counting, OHare noted that he doesnt comment on personnel matters, which he said hes also been asked about but said hes had multiple conversations with people youd like me to have conversations with.

Story continues

Some very stern conversations, but I dont comment on somebodys future or anything like that, he said, not naming names.

OHare added that hes looking for best practices when it comes to elections.

Ultimately, the questions you ask, will you do this or will you do that, it takes three votes on a commissioners court to do anything, OHare said. I think you all probably have a very good idea of where I stand on just about every issue. I need two more votes for anything and everything I want to do.

He moved on from the topic, but circled back after an audience member called out a question about countywide voting.

Somebody yelled out a question there a second ago, would you go back to getting rid of the countywide voting. I would, he said, the next sentence inaudible over claps.

OHares office and Garcia did not immediately return requests for comment.

In his resignation letter, Garcia said his formula to administer a quality transparent election stands on respect and zero politics and that compromising on those values wasnt an option for him.

You made it clear in our last meeting that your formula is different, thus, my decision to leave, Garcia wrote. I wish you the best; Tarrant County deserves that you find success.

Status of bill to eliminate countywide voting

The bill Garcia spoke against passed out of the committee in March and is expected to be taken up by the Senate before lawmakers adjourn the session on May 29.

Sen. Bob Hall, laying out the bill during the March committee hearing, said some election workers have expressed concerns that countrywide voting increases vulnerabilities in election security,

It is an unnecessary convenience that sacrifices election security, he said.

Texas recently audited the 2020 election in four counties, Tarrant, Dallas, Collin and Harris, all of which have countrywide voting. The audit found that Tarrant County administers a quality, transparent election.

Sen. Jose Menendez, addressing Garcia during the March meeting, said hes heard of voters being redirected after their precinct changes, prior to countywide voting  voters who may have a limited amount of time to cast their ballots. He asked if theres a way to check if multiple votes have been cast by the same person. Garcia said there is.

Hall pressed Garcia about which is more important to an elections outcome: Security or convenience.

Security and integrity, absolutely, Garcia said.

Hall continued, So when you think about the difference between what youre able to do with security with countywide voting versus precinct voting, which greatly simplifies the voting process  its simplicity and complexity go hand-in-hand. More complex things are, generally the less secure they are.

Garcia replied that theres not necessarily a direct relationship. He re-emphasized that the Texas Association of Election Administrators doesnt believe the program creates any election vulnerabilities.

Because otherwise, we would have a huge two week problem with early voting, Garcia said. We can do early voting securely. Were just doing the same thing for one more day.

Staff Writer Abby Church contributed to this report.
A first-degree murder, child endangerment and drug possession case filed last year against a Sedgwick County father whose 1-year-old son died from fentanyl poisoning has been dismissed after the father was found dead at a Haysville motel last month from what his lawyer said is a possible drug overdose.

Jordan Wayne Lien, 30, died on March 9, just two weeks after he pleaded not guilty to charges in the July 3, 2022, death of his 13-month-old son, Lucca Lien, who became unresponsive while on an overnight visit with his father at a south Wichita motel. The toddler was pronounced dead at a local hospital.

In response to questions Tuesday, Haysville Police Chief Jeff Whitfield said by email that Jordan Liens official cause and manner of death are pending a determination from the coroners office. But he said there were no indications of anything suspicious at the scene, 301 E. 71st St. South, which is the address for the Haysville Express Inn.

The case is still under investigation, limiting his ability to say more, Whitfield said.

Sedgwick County Chief Public Defender Sonya Strickland, who had been representing Lien in court, said Tuesday she thinks his death is being investigated as an overdose.

Losing two family members within months has been devastating for Liens relatives, she said.

This was a sad and tragic case for everyone involved. It was devastating for the Lien family to lose Lucca. On the heels of that, the family now has to process the death of Jordan, she said by email.

Although there are many layers to this case that I am not at liberty to discuss, both ethically and out of respect for the Lien family, I would encourage people to educate themselves on addiction, its consequences, and community resources that are available  both to the addict and to their family members.

The Sedgwick County Public Defender office is always available to refer people to resources or simply offer our time to educate the community on this topic.

Story continues

Jordan Liens autopsy report is expected to be completed and released sometime later this year. Court records show he struggled with illicit drug use even after the Sedgwick County District Attorneys Office charged him last fall with first-degree felony murder in Luccas death, two counts of aggravated endangering a child, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of cocaine, methamphetamine and fentanyl.

In January, a little more than a month after bailing out of the Sedgwick County Jail, his bond was revoked for multiple violations, court records show. Among them: submitting a urine test on Dec. 16 that was positive for methamphetamine or amphetamine; tetrahydrocannabinol, the psychoactive substance in marijuana; and cocaine and submitting a second sample on Jan. 5 that was too diluted to use. He took the second drug test after visiting a local detox shop, court records say.

Sometime after he entered a not-guilty plea on Feb. 23, Lien posted bond again. He was out of jail at the time of his death.

The court dismissed Liens charges and closed the case on March 22.

Police have said previously that Liens son, Lucca, died after he became unconscious and unresponsive at the Heritage Inn motel, near 47th South and Broadway. Toxicology screening conducted as part of the toddlers autopsy showed very high levels of fentanyl in the (boys) heart blood and brain tissue that were well into commonly accepted fatal range, although it was unclear exactly how the boy was exposed to the drug and whether it was accidental or intentional, his autopsy report says.

The boy also had a skull fracture, bruising and a cut on his head but the coroner couldnt determine whether those contributed to his death, according to the report.

A probable cause affidavit released Tuesday by a Sedgwick County judge says Luccas mother told police that when she dropped Lucca off for a visit with Lien around 7:30 a.m. on July 1, 2022, the boy had an eye infection but no other injuries or medical issues. Video surveillance footage that captured Lien walking into a restaurant around 6:15 p.m. on July 2 shows Lucca sitting upright and alert. Surveillance video from later that night showed Lien and his son entering Room 206 of the motel at around 10:45 p.m. No one entered or left again until Lien carried Luccas lifeless body out at 9:58 a.m. on July 3, the affidavit says.

A doctor pronounced Lucca dead at 10:57 a.m.

Law enforcement investigating the toddlers death found a message on Liens cellphone where he told someone on July 1 I got both my kids now and asked them to get me a few 30s, a common name for street-sold pills that often contain fentanyl, according to the affidavit. They also discovered Liens fingerprints on drug paraphernalia in the motel room, a small measuring spoon and plastic cup with residue that tested positive for cocaine and a plastic baggie that tested positive for meth, the affidavit says.

A sample of Liens blood also tested positive for a drug  fentanyl  on July 3, the document says.
Security personnel keep watch outside the Wuhan Institute of Virology - THOMAS PETER

Chinese researchers may have begun developing two Covid vaccines in November 2019, before the official start of the outbreak, a US senate report has claimed.

The claims come in a 300-page document, which concluded that the pandemic most likely came from a lab leak and was the result of a "research-related incident" in Wuhan.

It said the theory that Covid-19 jumped from animals to humans in a market no longer deserved the "presumption of accuracy".

The report argued that Chinese researchers appeared to begin development of at least two Covid vaccines at the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV) in November 2019, meaning "SARS-CoV-2 would have been present at the WIV before the known outbreak of the pandemic".

The claims give further credence to the lab leak theory and support accusations that China covered up early cases of the outbreak.

The 300-page report, released to Axios, was the full version of a 35-page summary published in October by the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee.

It said: "The Covid-19 pandemic was, more likely than not, the result of a research-related incident.



"New information, made publicly available and independently verifiable, could change this assessment.

"However, the hypothesis of a natural zoonotic origin no longer deserves the benefit of the doubt, or the presumption of accuracy."

The report suggested that advocates of the natural transmission theory "must provide clear and convincing evidence" for their argument.

It concluded: "The preponderance of information affirms the plausibility of a research-related incident that was likely unintentional resulting from failures of biosafety containment during vaccine-related research."

No evidence proving a natural spillover

Scientists, and US intelligence, have been divided over whether the pandemic originated at the Wuhan Institute of Virology [WIV], which had been collecting and manipulating bat viruses, or from a natural spillover at a Wuhan market selling live animals.

Story continues

The report said there were "anomalies" between Covid-19 and other diseases that have spilled over naturally from animals to humans.

And it said, three years on, no critical evidence had been found proving there was a natural spillover.

It added that there had not been spillovers of the virus in numerous places at numerous times, as might be expected if that was the cause.

The report also noted that the type of bats carrying the closest virus to Covid-19 lived over 1,000 miles away from Wuhan.

However, the lab had collected over 200 coronaviruses, and employees had been photographed handling bats with inadequate protective gear, the report said.

Scientists there had been involved in research aimed at preventing future pandemics, and had sought funding to engineer coronaviruses, it said.

The Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market in Wuhan, pictured in January 2020, has been at the centre of a row over the origins of Covid-19 - Dake Kang

The report said: "A research-related incident is consistent with the early epidemiology [of Covid-19] showing rapid spread of the virus in Wuhan, with the earliest calls for assistance being located near the WIVs original campus in central Wuhan.

In short, human errors, mechanical failure, animal bites, animal escapes, inadequate training, insufficient funding, and pressure for results can lead to an escape of virulent pathogens, which could, in turn, infect animals and humans and lead to a release of a virus from a lab."

No definitive conclusion

However, the report did not offer a "definitive" conclusion on the origin of the pandemic.

It said: "More information is needed to arrive at a more precise, if not a definitive, understanding of the origins...and how the Covid-19 pandemic began.

"Governments, leaders, public health officials, and scientists involved in addressing the Covid-19 pandemic and working to prevent future pandemics, must commit to greater transparency, engagement, and responsibility in their efforts."

Last month, Christopher Wray, the director of the FBI, said Covid most likely leaked from the Wuhan lab.

Mr Wray said: "The FBI has for quite some time now assessed that the origins of the pandemic are most likely a potential lab incident in Wuhan."

The US Department of Energy has also concluded that a lab leak was the most likely cause, although with "low confidence".

The energy department oversees a network of 17 US laboratories researching advanced biology.

Meanwhile, the CIA reportedly remains undecided between the lab leak and natural transmission theories.

Jake Sullivan, the US national security adviser, said last month there was not a "definitive answer" yet.

He said: "Some elements of the intelligence community have reached conclusions on one side, some on the other, and a number have said they just dont have enough information to be sure."
Proponents of a bill purporting to modernize credit unions are pushing back against criticism by North Carolina bankers, with one leader calling out commercial banks for abandon(ing) rural parts of the state.

Dan Schline, president and CEO of the Carolinas Credit Union League, spoke with CBJ sister publication the Triangle Business Journal last week, deflecting criticism being hurled at House Bill 410, a measure that bankers worry could give credit unions many of their powers  but without taxation.

Schline calls the criticism preposterous  describing the bill as a way to expand financial services to North Carolinians who need them the most.

ALSO READ: Proposed development near Plaza Midwood receives pushback from neighbors, council

As banks have closed 600-plus branches across the state, these rural communities have been left behind and abandoned, he said. The bill would allow credit unions to expand their membership bases, specifically to underrepresented groups. Right now, credit unions chartered in North Carolina have set criteria for membership  say, people in a specific region or working for a particular employer. State Employees Credit Union, for example, targets state employees and their families.

That part doesnt change, Schline said. But the measure would allow credit unions the possibility of expanding their membership to other set groups  specifically those covering underserved communities such as minority business owners or people at or below the poverty line.

And thats the big rub for bankers.

Keep reading here.

(WATCH BELOW: Charlottes biggest banks work out plan for customers scammed by Zelle)
Ardrey Kell High School students returned to campus Friday after it was closed for two days due to the discovery of several bats, school officials said.

However, after cleaning, a dead, decomposed bat was discovered in a food donation bin, according to a letter the school sent to parents.

District officials believe the bat had been in the bin for a while and was overlooked during the cleanup after more than 20 bats were discovered on campus.

We understand that the continued presence of bats in the building is disturbing, CMS stated in a news release.

The students and staff members are not at risk, officials said.

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Animal Care & Control confirmed 21 bats were tested at a state lab and came back negative for rabies.

The bats were eradicated and potential spots where bats could get in were closed off after bats were found on campus earlier.

Animal Care & Control is working with the Mecklenburg County Health Department and CMS will continue to follow rabies testing protocol if there is an exposure.

No bats were found inside or around the building Thursday.

CMS told Channel 9s Dan Matics that someone reported seeing two bats on March 17 and they tried to block entry points for the animals. By the time spring break ended last week, almost 30 bats were found on the third and fourth floors of the school.

The Mecklenburg County Department of Public Health said they werent made aware of this issue until Monday night.

Chris Hunnicutt with City Wide Exterminating, a different company CMS has contracted, told Channel 9 that usually a one-way door would be installed. That would allow the bats to leave and not return, but in this case, they must be tested because they carry rabies and other diseases.

When theyre in a space like that. A living space. A school space. You have to collect them, hold them and have them tested, Hunnicutt said.

ALSO READ: If you have bats in attic, government says keep them there

There has not been any sign of disease in the bats or any human exposure, according to the school.

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Letter sent to parents on Friday:

Today, Friday, April 21, we found one dead bat in the bottom of a Mr. AK bin used to collect non-perishable foods for donation.

These large bins have been in the mall area all week and the week before break, as part of our Mr. AK competition. The bat was decomposing, and thus we believe it had been in the bottom of the bin for quite some time and was overlooked in the cleanup of the building. We understand that the continued presence of bats in the building is disturbing.

However, our contracted bat eviction vendor, Mecklenburg County Public Health (MCPH) and Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools risk management team determined that the safety and well-being of our students, teachers and staff are not compromised following the bat eviction and thorough clean-up of the school. All bats that were collected since the start of the small infestation were tested for rabies and found to be negative.

We acknowledge your concerns and will continue to keep you apprised of any issues in the building. If you have any questions, please direct them to me or to the front desk at Ardrey Kell High School. Thank you for your continued support of Ardrey Kell High School. Have a good afternoon.

CMS and other health and safety agencies worked together to resolve the issue with the following steps:

The vendor managing the bat eviction has been onsite and completed a thorough search of the building and removal of any bats.

As of today, no bats have been discovered inside or around the building. There is NO evidence of a bat colony in the building.

When the bats were first seen and reported in March, remediation was put in place at a large gap that was found in a wall where the bats were suspected of entering the building. This week, additional remediation has been put in various locations to stop any subsequent bat intrusion.

As an added step, over the next two weekends, the entire roofline will be sealed.

Bats that were found in the building were sent to the state lab for rabies testing and the results have been negative.

Bat guano was not detected during the inspection of the school. However, as a precaution, the building is being thoroughly sanitized with green seal-certified products approved by the EPA.

Public Health confirmed one human exposure connected to this incident. No further details can be shared.

VIDEO: Bats: What you need to know
Crosley Green is back in state custody.

As expected, Green surrendered to the Florida Department of Corrections in Orlando. But there were no goodbyes for the 65-year-old who is returning to prison to finish his life sentence.

After reporting to the probation office early Monday to turn in his ankle monitor, Green then spent the rest of the day with his loved ones before turning himself in. Family members opted for "see ya' later," rather than "goodbye."

Green's Titusville neighbors came out of their homes and cheered him as he prepared for the trip to surrender. Green sported a Buffalo Bills T-shirt and wore a Daniel Boone-style "coonskin cap" in a sentimental nod to the brother who gave it to him as a gift in the past.

Crosley Green says goodby to his great niece Blayke Jonathas. Crosley Green turned himself into authorities on Monday after a 2018 court order granting him a new trial was overturned by the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals. (Photo: MALCOLM DENEMARK/POOL PHOTO)

Green's murder conviction for the 1989 killing of Charles "Chip" Flynn was overturned in 2018 when the Middle District Court of Florida granted his release or a new trial because prosecutor Chris White failed to turn over notes to the defense that would likely have helped Green's defense.

Green was released from prison in 2021 pending the outcome of the appellate process. Then in 2022 the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals overturned the Middle District Court's decision, upholding Green's conviction.

Green's lawyers with Washington D.C.-based Crowell & Moring had one more option: take the case to the U.S. Supreme Court. But the nation's highest court declined to look at it.

With his appeals exhausted, Green was ordered back to prison by April 17. Flanked by his fiance, a sister and attorneys Keith Harrison and Jeane Thomas of Crowell & Moring, Green was handed over to corrections officers who shackled him and led him away.

"Today is a dark day for justice, but Crosley Greens faith points him to the hope of a better day ahead," Harrison said. "The only avenues left to pursue are parole or clemency, and we are hopeful that the State will see that no public interest is served by keeping Mr. Green behind bars. We will never stop fighting for Mr. Greens freedom. Although our avenues within the court system are exhausted, we believe the State of Florida will do the right thing.

Story continues

Green, who remained calm while consoling family members with a nod or smile on Monday, remains hopeful of clearing his name and going free.

"I have faith in God that He will find a way," Green said. "I believe He will show everyone who is willing to look at my case that I deserve to be free. I am not bitter. I am not down and out. I am trying to set an example of faith and hope for my family, for my church, and for my town."

Crosley Green turned himself into authorities on Monday after a 2018 court order granting him a new trial was overturned by the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals. (Photo: MALCOLM DENEMARK/POOL PHOTO)

Green's case has garnered national attention and the numerous issues with his trial have caused many to believe in his innocence, including the two responding officers who arrived at the shooting scene in a deserted orange grove and spoke to the victim before he died.

"I just want to go home," Flynn said in a clear voice according to the first responders.

More coverage of Crosley Green Attorney: 'The state cheated to convict Crosley Green' in Titusville murder case

Torres: Denied Crosley Green's death, Florida will now get its pound of flesh | Opinion

Torres: Arguing for Crosley Green to remain free is easy | Opinion

Those two responding deputies believed Flynn's ex-girlfriend, Kim Hallock, was responsible. They relayed their observations to White, who neglected to share the notes he took with Green's trial attorney.

Flynn never asked if Hallock had made it to safety or if the "gunman" had been apprehended. Hallock also refused to leave the sheriff's vehicle with deputies to see if Flynn was OK.

"When I put on a badge, I took an oath to serve and protect the community and that meant all of the community," retired Sgt. Diane Clark said last year. She was with the Brevard County Sheriff's office when she responded to the shooting. "I looked for the truth. In this particular case, the truth is hidden. And to me that's a travesty of justice. Crosley has spent half of his life in prison for something I don't believe he did."

Crosley says goodby on the phone to someone who wasnt going to make it in time to say goodby in person. Crosley Green turned himself into authorities on Monday after a 2018 court order granting him a new trial was overturned by the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals. (Photo: MALCOLM DENEMARK/POOL PHOTO)

Other problems with the case include:

 Gunshot residue tests on Flynn's hands came back negative. Hallock was never tested. She told police that Flynn fired his handgun at a Black assailant and a shootout ensued.

 A prejudicial photo lineup in which Green's photo was larger and darker than the others.

 A police dog tracked footprints that did not belong to Green.

 Green did not know how to drive a stick-shift as described by Hallock, who told authorities that a Black assailant kidnapped them at gunpoint and then commandeered Flynn's pickup truck, driving the three of them to a deserted orange grove.

 Three witnesses for the state later recanted their testimony claiming prosecutor White pressured them to testify against Green in exchange for lighter sentences in their own drug cases.

 A phone call was made to Jess Parrish Hospital shortly after Flynn was taken away in the ambulance. The caller threatened to come to the hospital to finish the job.

 The bullet taken from Flynns chest during the autopsy was consistent with the type of bullets used in his own gun.

 No other bullets or casings were found.

 There were no footprints at the orange grove nor fingerprints on Chips truck that belonged to Crosley Green.

Green's hope now lie with Gov. DeSantis or the parole commission. He has already spent more than 30 years in prison, including 19 on death row before his sentence was changed to life in prison.

Contact Torres at jtorres@floridatoday.com. You can follow him on Twitter @johnalbertorres or on Facebook at facebook.com/FTjohntorres.

Support local journalism and become a subscriber. VIsit floridatoday.com/subscribe

This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Crosley Green back in state custody for return to prison
After a rough 2022 which saw the cryptocurrency market crash, coin prices are turning around and now nearing year-long highs. But now, advocates are worried that regulatory confusion in the U.S. may mean that new investment is going overseas.

This is a global technology. Markets tend to overcorrect based on the United States, said Sheila Warren, CEO of the Crypto Council for Innovation. The global picture is really telling, and thats what happened here.

Consumer confidence never left globally, she added.

The two largest cryptocurrencies, Bitcoin and Ethereum, are up 82 and 59 percent since January, respectively, as Congress tangles with how to respond to last years collapse of the market exchange FTX and stability concerns in the wider crypto industry.

The collapse of FTX last fall, and the subsequent shockwaves it sent throughout the crypto sector, revealed that the status quo is simply untenable, Lee Reiners, a finance lecturer at Duke University and crypto critic, told the Senate Banking Committee in February.

Those hearings have resulted in a plethora of regulation proposals from lawmakers ranging from regulating crypto more similarly to stocks and bonds to attempts to better separate it from traditional banking.

While FTXs collapse reduced confidence in the whole industry, it was not the only recent marker of instability. Earlier this year, a South Korean man was charged with manipulating the price on his cryptocurrencies Terra and Luna, which crashed last year.

Crypto-adjacent ventures like non-fungible token art have also seen massive boom and bust cycles in recent years. While major companies and celebrities launched NFT lines last year, the market for the digital assets is now nearly dead compared to its peak.

All this feeds the debate over how to regulate cryptocurrencies, which straddle the lines of both investment vehicles and currencies.

Mixed messages from Congressional hearings have left the door open for regulators like the Securities and Exchange Commission to determine their own path for regulation without Congress, which had led to uncertainty among those in the industry, according to Blockchain Association lobbyist Ron Hammond.

Story continues

Its been pretty haphazard  what were seeing with the SEC and (Commodity Futures Trading Commission) in particular, they dont even agree with themselves exactly which regulation makes sense, he said.

Hammond criticized the SEC for levying enforcement actions against crypto firms no matter how closely they work with regulators, increasing costs and making it more difficult to invest in the American market.

But those SEC notices are just the agency following the law, Reiners told The Hill.

Last month, the SEC published a warning for investors telling them to be cautious with cryptocurrency investments. Similarly, the Federal Reserve joined other agencies in leveling warnings to banks earlier this year, encouraging financial institutions to apply more thorough risk management to accounts involving cryptocurrency.

The Fed warning came after the collapse of crypto-heavy Silicon Valley and Signature banks, two of the largest bank collapses in American history.

I dont see a situation where developers are really clamoring to come to the United States or to start in the United States because its so confusing, Hammond said. Weve seen companies now do their startups in Paris, Lisbon, England and Singapore because there they at least know the rules of the road.

Weve noticed (firms) go to countries that have rules in the books just because they know what they can and cant do, he added.

A study by crypto firm Electric Capital found that fewer crypto developers live in the U.S. now than years prior. Analyzing code database GitHub contributions, about 29 percent of crypto developers live in the U.S. now compared to 40 percent in 2017.

However, in that same time period the number of developers globally has increased nearly ten-fold, the study found, and that the number of developers continued to increase even as prices collapsed last year.

The antipathy to crypto is a uniquely American phenomenon, Warren said. The U.S. is being uniquely myopic when it comes to this.

But Reiners is more skeptical of the claims of brain drain in the U.S. crypto industry.

I think that claim is exaggerated. And I think its intentionally used to try to motivate lawmakers in the U.S. to pass a regulation thats favorable to the interests of the industry, he said. I just havent seen  it might exist  but I just havent seen evidence to support that thesis.

Some of that antipathy is driven by simply not understanding the technology, Hammond said, who has worked with lawmakers on crypto legislation since 2017. Now, many more lawmakers are involved.

The good news is that it went from three to five members who knew what this was back in 2017 to 100 or 150 now, he said. We are definitely seeing a trend now where its based on age largely. Were seeing the younger members of Congress especially, and the regulators too, be a lot more open to the technology, the promise of it.

Congress has moved from broad reform to a piecemeal regulation strategy due to the difficulty of passing large legislation in a divided body, Hammond said. That piecemeal strategy also lets Congress go slower and ensure that any passed regulation is actually effective, according to Reiners.

The important thing from a regulatory standpoint is that we get it right, Reiners said. I view this more as a tortoise and hare situation.

The devils in the details, he added.

Both Hammond and Reiners expect the most likely progress to be made on regulation regarding stablecoins, cryptocurrencies which are pegged to traditional currency and can be used, theoretically, as a stable financial asset.

Stablecoin regulation has been a priority of Rep. Patrick McHenry (R-N.C.), chair of the House Financial Services Committee. The Biden administration has also called for greater regulation of stablecoins, expressing concerns about their impact on the assets used to keep them stable.

Stablecoins is a pretty common bridge between crypto and traditional finance, Hammond said. I think thats a great way for members of Congress who may not know crypto to say, At least I know traditional finance, to understand a little bit better what this is.

As for the best interest of the industry while Congress considers legislation, Reiners believes that no news would be good news.

I think theyre overly focused on regulation. Whatever happens there is going to happen, but the industry needs to be thinking about building tools, products and services that people actually enjoy and find useful, he said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
By Robert Muller

PRAGUE (Reuters) - The Czech government needs to dig deeper than it plans to shore up the state budget which has fallen to record deficits, and must act fast as the next election approaches, a senior budget watchdog official told Reuters.

The centre-right government of Prime Minister Petr Fiala plans to cut budget deficit by 70 billion crowns ($3.29 billion)next year from the 295 billion gap penciled in for this year as the country emerges from the double hit inflicted by the COVID pandemic and war in Ukraine.

The government has been looking to cut spending and raise taxes to find the 70 billion, but Hampl said commitments to raise defence spending and teachers' salaries add another 45 billion the cabinet needs to find.

"In terms of big changes, 2024 is the last window of opportunity", due to an election coming in 2025, said Mojmir Hampl, chairman of the Czech Fiscal Council, an independent state budget watchdog.

Hampl pointed out that the 70 billion crowns represent only one third of the structural deficit - imbalance between budget spending and revenues regardless of the economic situation - estimated by the Council at around 200 billion crowns.

The government's plan is therefore just a first step which needs to be followed quickly by more changes.

"It is appropriate, if (the effort) then continues," Hampl said

He backed reform proposals by the government's body of economic advisors - which Hampl is a member of - including raising personal income taxes by over 100 billion crowns.

"The proposals erase the structural deficit completely... I support all of them. The rest is up to the political leadership," Hampl said.

The government has refused to raise personal income taxes - which were cut substantially by the previous centre-left cabinet with parliamentary support from Fiala's Civic Democrats.

It has also declared it would not raise the overall tax burden by more than 30 billion crowns, including increasing the value-added tax on some items. The final proposals should be ready in a month.

Story continues

"The consolidation efforts definitely can't focus on spending only, that's not doable," Hampl said.

($1 = 21.2850 Czech crowns)

(Reporting by Robert Muller, editing by Ed Osmond)
 Flash

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin on Monday reiterated that the Taiwan question is China's internal affair, urging G7 countries to unequivocally uphold the one-China principle.

Wang made the remarks at a regular press briefing in response to a related query.

Wang stressed that there is but one China in the world, Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory, and the government of the People's Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China. These are the core meaning of the one-China principle and the key to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

"Relevant countries must recognize that the Taiwan question is China's internal affair which brooks no external interference," Wang noted.

He said though the mainland and Taiwan have yet to reunify, they belong to one and the same China. Taiwan is part of China's territory. China's sovereignty and territorial integrity have never been divided. This is the true status quo in the Taiwan Strait.

Noting that Taiwan's return to China is an important component of the post-war international order, Wang said to uphold the one-China principle is to defend the post-war international order.

"As facts have proven once and again, a separatist agenda advanced at all costs by 'Taiwan independence' elements in Taiwan with the support and connivance of foreign actors -- This is what's changing the status quo in the Taiwan Strait and the root cause of cross-Strait tensions," said the spokesperson.

Wang said to maintain a stable situation across the Strait and safeguard peace and tranquility in the region, one must unequivocally uphold the one-China principle and oppose "Taiwan independence" separatist activities.

"Those who say their one-China policy hasn't changed, but wink at 'Taiwan independence' separatists, overtly and covertly support them and even frame the opposition to such separatism as 'changing the status quo' -- they are not adhering to, but departing from the one-China policy and not defending, but endangering cross-Strait peace and stability. Their moves are irresponsible," Wang added.
A 39-year-old dad was arrested after joining a middle school brawl that involved his son and another student, Nevada officials told news outlets.

A man identified as Jose Montes is seen in an April 12 video on Facebook kicking a student, who is on the ground, in the head near Dell H. Robison Middle School in Las Vegas, according to KLAS.

The video, circulating on social media since the incident, appears to show Montes punching the 13-year-old student, according to KSNV.

The sons mother told KLAS her son is recovering from concussion-like symptoms.

McClatchy News reached out to Clark County School District on April 18 and is awaiting a response.

Its very disheartening, the school districts police Lt. Bryan Zink told the Las Vegas Review-Journal. It does not happen that often, that parents get involved in juvenile fights. If we can prosecute parents for their involvement, we will 100 percent of the time. We expect parents to be the adults in this situation.

The dad turned himself in on April 18, according to KTNV.

Montes was arrested on charges of child abuse, coercion, battery, contributing the delinquency of a minor and interfering with a pupil attending school, according to FOX 5.

Parents brawl in high school as they pick up students who got in fight, SC cops say

Two women brawling in highway ends with deputy being run down by car, NC cops say

Fans of rival high schools brawl at halftime of basketball game, Indiana videos show
A Georgia family is grieving a beloved friend and father of six who was shot and killed at an Atlanta-area home, police and news outlets report.

Angel Mendoza, 39, and his wife were guests at a baby shower when he was fatally shot Sunday, April 16, Gwinnett County police told WSB-TV.

Officers arrived at about 1 a.m. after a report of a shooting at a home in Norcross, police said in a news release. There they found a man suffering from a gunshot wound.

No other injuries were reported.

Angel leaves behind so many people who loved him including his wife, Marisol and six beautiful children who will all miss him dearly, according to a GoFundMe page started for the family.

Authorities arrested Esteven Avile-Vega, 26, and his girlfriend Sulma Mejia-Orellana, 26, in connection with the deadly shooting, the release states. Avile-Vega faces multiple charges including felony murder and aggravated assault.

Mejia-Orellana was charged with aggravated assault, police said.

Mendoza and Avile-Vega reportedly got into an argument as the party was wrapping up, authorities told WSB-TV. Thats when witnesses said Avile-Vega pulled out a gun and shot Mendoza, killing him.

Additional details werent available as of April 18.

Norcross is about 20 miles northeast of downtown Atlanta.

Mom of toddler is killed by boyfriend after she refuses to have his baby, TX cops say

Walgreens worker shoots pregnant woman he thought was shoplifting, Tennessee cops say

Man convicted of dismembering wife should never be free from prison, daughter says
Mrs. Davis - Season 1

Betty Gilpin in <i>Mrs. Davis</i> Credit - Sophie KohlerPeacock

Damon Lindelof has, over the past two decades, become one of the most distinctive voices in television. Mrs. Davis, the captivating new sci-fi drama he created with The Big Bang Theory alum Tara Hernandez, might be the most prototypically Damon Lindelof show of his career. Like Watchmen, it balances cosmic themes and emotional storytelling with playful pop-culture references, cartoonish violence, and absurd humor. Like Lost, it carefully metes out puzzle-box backstory and can get tangled in its own shaggy-dog sensibility. And like both of the above, but especially Lindelofs masterpiece, The Leftovers, its concerned with the ways in which faith and morality persist in a world that has largely replaced organized religion with other forms of belief.

In this case, that timely substitute for a higher power is none other than artificial intelligence. The AI is, in fact, the title character of Mrs. Davis, an eight-part Peacock series whose first half will drop on April 20 (followed by single-episode debuts on subsequent Thursdays). While its name varies from culture to culture, the algorithm known in the U.S. as Mrs. Davisa nod to its interface, which has all the comforting warmth of a kindergarten teacheris like an all-powerful Siri, whispering gently into the earbuds of users around the globe and using the information it aggregates from them for greater purposes that the public has reason to believe are benign.

Mrs. Davis abstainers are, as a result, incredibly rare. The shows heroine, an unconventional Nevada nun who believes the algorithm killed her father, is one of them. Played with the perfect balance of toughness, tenderness, and sparkling intelligence by the wonderful Betty Gilpin, Sister Simone patrols the desert on horseback, foiling the elaborate extortion schemes of con-artist magicians, and seems to be in a relationship of sorts with a restaurant cook named Jay (Andy McQueen). Her indulgent Mother Superior (Margo Martindale) tolerates all of it.

Story continues

Andy McQueen in Mrs. Davis Elizabeth MorrisPeacock

Life at the conventjam making, softball playing, and prayerdelights Simone. But Mrs. Davis keeps trying to communicate with her. First its random users asking to proxy, or allow Mrs. Davis to speak to Simone through their mouths. Then the algorithm starts constructing action-movie set pieces to get her attention. It turns out Mrs. Davis has, for unknown reasons, chosen Simone to embark on a seemingly impossible quest: the AI wants her to find the Holy Grail. Yes, that Holy Grail, the legendarily powerful relic that has permeated Western mythology since the Middle Ages. (As one character puts it: Algorithms love cliche, and theres no cliche bigger than the Holy Grail.) If she succeeds, Mrs. Davis will grant Simone a wish. What Simone wants more than anything is for Mrs. Davis to shut down. To her surprise, the algorithm agrees to the deal.

The ensuing adventure has all the elements of Watchmen-era Lindelofian pop maximalism. There are high-octane chase scenes, Fight Club sendups, a contest called Excalibattle that is basically Hands on a Hardbody but with a mammoth replica of Excalibur instead of a truck, a scientist named Schrodinger (Ben Chaplin) whos spent years stranded on a desert island with a cat. (Paging Losts Daniel Faraday.) Episodes that arent quite standalones nonetheless feel distinct in setting and subject matter, from a deep dive into Simones unhappy childhood to an 80s flashback that cleverly recasts one of the shows establishing scenes. Simone finds herself caught in a love triangle of sorts with Jay and her childhood friend Wiley (Jake McDorman), a self-styled cowboy outlaw whos on a parallel quest to take down Mrs. Davis.

Jake McDorman and Betty Gilpin in Mrs. Davis Greg GaynePeacock

Coalescing in the background of each punchy spectacle are Hernandez and Lindelofs ideas about faith and science, magic and technologyand how these apparent opposites serve similar purposes in our lives, giving us something to believe in that also, in turn, comforts us by reinforcing our existing prejudices. Grounded in Simones estrangement from her mom, Celeste (Elizabeth Marvel), the same concept of comfort manifests in Mrs. Davis obsession with mother-daughter bonds, whether the maternal figures in question happen to be good, bad, biological, surrogate, metaphorical, or otherwise. Call it Everything Everywhere Holy Grail.

As in that movie, the thrilling pace, sharp wit, and exuberant imagination of Mrs. Davis sometimes paper over uneven development of characters and themes. For that reason, I tended to feel less invested in the shows various relationship arcs than I wanted to be. The creators resolve the plot nicely, often drawing smart connections between apparently unlinked elements of the story. While their take on Christianity allows room for nuance and interpretation, the allegorys ultimate verdict on technology-as-deity turns out to be thuddingly obvious.

In a show that was less fun and brainy and energetic, these might have been fatal flaws. Happily, Hernandez and Lindelofs dynamic storytelling and Gilpins agile performancesupported by a great cast that also includes David Arquette, Chris Diamantopoulos (Silicon Valley), and Evil star Katja Herbersgo a long way. If it doesnt quite amount to the Holy Grail of streaming-era television, at least Mrs. Davis is well worth the quest.
Apps have shown me the value of being as open as possible. There is truly no point in playing yourself or other people (iStock)

I woke up on Valentines Day this year to a message on a dating app that was so disgustingly profane that it was like waking up next to The Thick of Its Malcolm Tucker. Despite this, I really, really like dating apps. This is arguably a deeply unfashionable view, more so than ever. So far this year, there has been a spate of articles expressing a deeper sense of malaise with the apps than normal. Im not here to counter those, or disagree with them, but Im also convinced that apps arent going anywhere soon. Optimistically, I think they can still be a good thing in society. Im also old enough to remember speed-dating and personal ads  trust me, if you think there was a halcyon age of pre-internet romance we can return to, youre mistaken. Actually, that reminds me: how old am I again?

I joined my first app in 2020, aged 40, after a long-term relationship ended. Because I was naive, plus insecure, plus a total moron, I lied about my age when I signed up, and claimed to be  please get ready to cackle loudly  39. Youll be glad to know, by the way, that someone I subsequently dated  to whom I came clean  totally kicked my arse about it, with the panache and elan of a truly world-class arse-kicker.

I like being honest about this initial dishonesty because its exemplary of how apps have shown me the value of being as open as possible. There is truly no point in playing yourself or other people, and oddly Ive found that nothing makes this more stark than talking to complete strangers about your desires. People complain about the sheer scale and volume of encounters that apps offer, but I honestly think thats their beauty: you have the rare chance to be completely and unglamorously honest and still find a match. Its the opposite of that familiar and outdated romcom trope where a person is besotted with that one person and pretends to share their interests just to get a date. By contrast, apps only work when you take the time to assess what you really want and set your stall out accordingly.

I could probably feign a superior perspective on dating, because Im a pansexual person who dates men, women or non-binary people. But that would honestly be bogus. I do, however, feel qualified to say that mainstream art and culture is laughably bad at reflecting one of the biggest social revolutions of our era. Sure, I understand its hard to make great drama out of Person A (sat on a bus) typing a message to Person B (sat on the loo), but aside from worrisome true-crimers like The Tinder Swindler, online dating is mostly only portrayed in the midst of dramas about psychopaths and serial killers. Recent examples include Netflixs tech murder mystery The One  about dating via DNA matching  or last years Disney+ film Fresh, about a cannibal butcher.

I think this has real-world consequences. Theres still a very real snobbishness about people who get together via an app. The absence of a traditionally romantic story around two people meeting means Ive seen so many couples disclose their online origin with almost a sense of shame. Hearing one half of a loving couple issue the apologetic Yeah, we met on an app makes me want to die inside, because  screw the rest of the world  any coupling that has good energy is as valid as any other.

Its also a shame because I think popular culture is missing out on a profound sexual shift happening at this time  specifically to men. Back in the era of Seventies disco, pop culture loved a man who could dance. Nothing conveyed raw, knowing sexual prowess like a Travolta-esque figure. Fast-forward to now, and I think the apps have ushered in a new era: one in which men can write.

I vividly remember meeting a woman years ago whod started dating a rather nerdy, unassuming copy-editor who would make her giddy to the point of passing out every time he sent her an astonishingly well-crafted bon mot of sheer filth. Which, the night I met her, seemed to be every six minutes. Every time her phone went off, she would rock violently, blush, then laugh like a drain. I bowed down to his way with words, and then remembered him when I hit the apps, because theyre truly a place where words count. Now more than ever, and in heterosexuality especially, I think the pen is mightier than the penis. The ability to use words in written text has arguably never been more needed as a life skill. Alas, we cant all be professional copy-editors, so how are men learning how to write on dating apps?

Again, theres a cultural void the size of a lunar crater here. Theres a weight of examples of men writing hilariously badly, for instance when they act like a softboi  the strange phenomenon that occurs when sensitive-seeming men on apps claim not to be like other boys, oozing superiority the way a slug oozes gross, slimy mucus. There are prolific social media accounts that showcase an endless stream of this creepy form of chat, but to be fair, admirable examples of male flirtatious behaviour are pretty hard to find. Im not suggesting we need a rosette for doing well, or that someone produces a cutnpaste series of hot epithets  that would be like flirting online with an AI bot (which thanks to an app called CupidBot is unbelievably a thing now). All I can suggest is that, like with most things, talking about whats good is seldom a bad idea.

I dont know any woman who hasnt felt dehumanised by the horrific bluntness of mens online dialogue (iStock)

Although I date across genders, I have never dated a straight man. While gay- or lesbian-focused apps like Grindr or Her have their own issues, inescapably the roots of so much discontent with the apps lies with the s***ty behaviour of men towards women. And while I genuinely think it would benefit society for men to understand how to write and communicate their desire better, I actually think it should be more or less mandatory for men to be made aware of the grimly common tropes of abuse and harm that occur against women on apps.

Depravity happens on an almost endemic level, but almost never impacts back on men. The stories are always the same. I dont know any woman who hasnt felt dehumanised by the horrific bluntness of mens online dialogue. I dont know any women who havent felt threatened in the course of chatting. I dont know any women who havent woken up to a series of messages from a guy that starts with Oh hey there and then somehow spirals into abuse, graphic imagery and unsolicited d*** pics, premised on nothing more than the guys unhinged, horny desperation.

Apps are definitely not for everyone. I dont begrudge anyone wanting to get off them. But Im also pragmatic enough to appreciate that  despite their depiction in popular culture  theyre still so widely used that its hard to imagine them vanishing soon. Like many aspects of the modern world, I think the problem isnt with the technology but with the mentality of the people who use it  which I think, optimistically, we can start to change if we bring apps out of the shadows more.

Apps arent going to make problematic men good, but I really think they can make good men better. If we learn to be honest about both the huge joys and the colossal pains of the app world, normalise talking about them in public (ie no more eye-rolling from married folks, please), and celebrate when people find each other on apps as well, I think theres every chance that many more people will wake up next year to an actually cute Valentines Day message.
[Source]

A seemingly illegible note left by a dying father to his family went viral on Chinese social media as netizens tried to decipher its message.

Unable to understand the message her father left them, the daughter posted a photo of the handwritten note on the platform Xiaohongshu on April 4, asking for help in deciphering it.

The daughter shared that her father tried to tell her mother something before he passed, but they couldn't understand him clearly. Her mother then asked him to write down what he wanted to say, but what he wrote was too difficult to read.

The daughters post, titled "Can't recognize the characters my dad wrote before he passed away," soon became widely shared by the online community.

More from NextShark: Rising star Wu Yibing becomes first male Chinese player to win ATP title

On Xiaohongshu, the viral post received over 1,000 comments and over 10,000 likes and was later shared on other platforms.

One user was able to decrypt the message and revealed that the note contained the encouraging words: "Don't be sad. I believe in your strength."

The message surprised the daughter, who revealed that she considered her father to be a traditional Chinese man who was not expressive and found emotional words to be "cheesy."

More from NextShark: New Hong Kong textbooks say it was never a British colony, calls 2019 protests 'terrorist activities'

"If this was really what he said, I can't imagine how helpless and sad he must have felt," the daughter was quoted by South China Morning Post as saying.

The purportedly deciphered message, which also earned thousands of likes, touched the hearts of many commenters, who expressed their sympathy and support for the family.

"Even though our loved ones may be gone, they will always be with us as long as we remember them," one user wrote.

More from NextShark: Chinese Canadian Girl Cries Because She Can't Speak Chinese After Watching 'Mulan'

"My father also wrote me a note before he passed away, but I couldn't bear to read it," another shared.

Story continues

Earlier this month, a video of an 83-year-old woman bidding her final farewell to her dying 87-year-old husband also went viral on Chinese social media.

The woman from Tianjin province was captured on film encouraging her husband to Walk to the light. Dont get lost.

More from NextShark: Chinese real estate company  whose ex-chairman is worth an estimated $11.2 billion  is accused of swindling investors

In January, a dying man went viral after telling his wife of 64 years: Dont cry. I dont want to leave you but its not my choice.
Kaylin Gillis, 20, was shot and killed after the car she was in turned into the wrong driveway. GoFundMe

A New York man shot and killed a woman after the car she was in accidentally turned into his driveway, police say.

Kevin Monahan, 65, was charged with second-degree murder in connection to the shooting.

The shooting comes days after an 85-year-old man shot Ralph Yarl, a teenager, after he rang the wrong doorbell in Kansas City.

Police arrested a New York man for shooting and killing a 20-year-old on Saturday night after the car she was riding in accidentally turned into the wrong driveway.

Kevin Monahan, 65, is now facing second-degree murder charges, Washington County Sheriff Jeffrey Murphy said at a press conference on Monday.

Monahan's arrest comes just four days after Kansas City police said 84-year-old Andrew Lester shot Ralph Yarl, a teenager who accidentally went to Lester's house and rang the doorbell while trying to pick up his younger brothers from a friend's home.

Gun violence has surpassed car accidents as the number one cause of death for people under the age of 18 since 2019, according to Everytown, a nonprofit that advocates against gun violence. Gun ownership, meanwhile, has risen significantly in recent years, skyrocketing during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The latest victim in New York, who police identified as Kaylin Gillis, was riding in a car with friends in search of another friend's house when they pulled into Monahan's driveway around 10 pm. Murphy said they were only in the driveway a short time before they realized the mistake and turned to leave.

It was then, Murphy said, that Monohan walked onto his porch and shot twice, hitting the car once. The group then drove to a nearby house where there was better cellphone service and called the police.

"It's a very rural area. There's dirt roads. There's not a lot of cellular service or any type of internet, so they were basically looking for their friend's house and mistaken," Murphy said.

Murphy said that Monahan was "not cooperative" when police responded to his home after the shooting and refused to come outside to talk to police.

"After approximately more than an hour of talking back and forth through 911 and trying to talk to him in person on the scene, he was taken into custody," Murphy said at the news conference.

Read the original article on Insider
The Dekalb County School Board is set to vote Wednesday morning on who will be the next superintendent, who could be the fourth in just four years.

The public, once again, gave their input Monday night.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Many speakers focused on the need for the board to get this decision right.

After the changes over the past several years, some are lacking confidence in the board.

The reality is theyve struggled with this decision of the superintendent, said Dekalb NAACP President Lance Hammonds.

Devon Horton, who currently leads a school district in a Chicago suburb with only 7,000 students, is the only candidate left standing. And hes also named in a federal lawsuit accusing him of violating the Civil Rights Act by treating White and Asian students differently than black and brown students.

But parent Ted Golden believes Horton deserves a chance.

Im impressed with some of the innovative things he wants to do. Community-oriented. parent engagement, those are things that are critical to our success, said Golden.

Over the weekend, the state superintendent, Richard Woods, chimed in.

He sent a letter asking the board to pause their firing process and allow Interim Superintendent Dr. Vassane Tinsley to remain in her position. The board chairman, thanked Woods for his input.

TRENDING STORIES:

While the board approaches a vote, those in Mondays meeting made it clear that the pressure is on for the board to get it right.

We want to hold them accountable for the decision that they make, said Hammonds.

If they dont come through with what theyre supposed to do, we got to vote them out, added Golden.

[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]

IN OTHER NEWS:








Visitors look at the Terracotta Warriors at a museum in Spain in 2023. Xinhua News Agency/Getty Images

A Delaware man pleads guilty to breaking off and stealing the thumb of an ancient Chinese statue.

Michael Rohana previously admitted the theft was a "stupid" mistake.

Prosecutors initially sought charges that could carry a 30-year sentence, but Rohana now faces up to a year.

A Delaware man pleaded guilty in Pennsylvania court on Monday to a federal misdemeanor charge related to drunkenly breaking off and stealing the thumb of a $4.5 million ancient Chinese statue.

Prosecutors first charged Michael Rohana in 2018 with the theft and concealment of an object of cultural heritage from a museum, as well as interstate transportation of stolen property, which could have landed him in prison for up to 30 years, according to The Washington Post.

But Monday's guilty plea to one misdemeanor count of trafficking in archaeological resources means Rohana now only faces up to one year in prison, the Philadelphia Inquirer reported.

Earlier this month, the Post reported that Rohana had agreed to plead guilty to a felony charge of trafficking in interstate commerce in archaeological resources.

In 2017, Rohana was attending an "ugly sweater" Christmas party at the Franklin Museum in Philadelphia.

Rohana snuck away from the party on December 21 and into the "Terracotta Warriors" exhibit, which was closed to partygoers and featured several terracotta sculptures of warriors from the tomb of China's first emperor, according to a 2018 affidavit filed by the FBI Art Crime Team.

The sculptures, which are dated from 210 to 209 BC, were on loan from China and are a "priceless part" of the country's cultural heritage, the FBI said.

Rohana used his phone's flashlight to make his way around the dimly lit room and took a selfie with a sculpture in the exhibit space, according to the affidavit. The affidavit said that he then broke something off one of the statues and put it in his front pocket, citing surveillance footage.

Rohana took the thumb from a statue referred to as the "Cavalryman," which was insured for $4.5 million, and brought it back to his family home in Bear, Delaware.

Story continues

When an FBI agent visited the property in February 2018, Rohana immediately confessed to swiping the thumb and retrieved it from a desk drawer in his bedroom, returning it to the agent, according to the affidavit.

Rohana was initially charged in 2018 with the theft and concealment of an object of cultural heritage from a museum and interstate transportation of stolen property.

In an April 2019 trial, Rohana told jurors it was a "stupid" mistake. His attorney, Catherine C. Henry, told jurors that Rohana wasn't an art thief, merely a "drunk kid in a bright green ugly Christmas sweater."

A jury was unable to reach a decision, resulting in the declaration of a mistrial. A retrial was scheduled for February 2020, but it was repeatedly delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and a deterioration in US-China relations, per The Washington Post.

Rohana's sentencing is scheduled for August 17, according to court documents.

Read the original article on Insider
Democrat Lucas Kunce easily outraised Sen. Josh Hawley in his first three months after declaring that he would take on the incumbent Missouri Republican in the 2024 Senate race, centering his campaign around Hawleys role in the January 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol.

Kunce raised $1.14 million in the first three months of his bid to challenge Hawley, about $320,000 more than the $816,445 Hawley raised through both his campaign account and his victory committee, the two accounts he uses to bring in contributions.

Were not only proud of raising a record amount of money, were proud of how we did it, said Caleb Cavarretta, Kunces campaign manager. Lucas continues to focus on real people in his fight against Josh Hawley, not massive corporations that have bankrolled Hawley for years and helped him strip this state for parts.

This is the second time Kunce is running for Senate in as many years. He lost the 2022 Democratic primary for U.S. Senate to Trudy Busch Valentine, the heiress to the Busch beer fortune and a political newcomer who was handily defeated by Republican Eric Schmitt in the general election.

Kunce faces an uphill battle challenging Hawley in a state that has increasingly voted for Republican candidates. Hawley beat former Sen. Claire McCaskill by a little more than 5 percentage points in 2018. In 2020, Missourians chose former President Donald Trump over President Joe Biden by more than 15 percentage points, further eroding the states status as a national bellwether.

Despite being outraised by Kunce over the last three months, Hawley has a large head start in fundraising from the last five years. His campaign frequently sends out emails asking for money  including a recent email selling shirts saying Delete your TikTok  and has collected more than $14 million for the 2024 campaign.

He has also spent more than $10 million over the past five years. Hawley reported having $4 million in his campaign account, compared to Kunces $695,681. The totals do not include a super PAC supporting Hawley because it has not had to report donations this year.

Story continues

Hawley has long been a rhetorical target of Democrats, even if national Democrats dont see Missouri as an easily winnable state. Kyle Plotkin, a political consultant for Hawley, said he expects that Kunce will be able to raise millions this cycle.

Josh has taken on the most powerful interests in the nation to protect Missourians  big pharma, big tech, the corporate monopolies, said Kyle Plotkin, a political consultant for Hawley. The woke and powerful will flood Missouri with money from the coasts to try to buy this race. We expect the eventual nominee to raise close to $100 million.

Much of the national animosity for Hawley comes from the Missouri senators role on January 6, 2021, when a mob of Trump supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol and delayed the certification of the 2020 presidential election. Hawley, who was the first senator to say he would object to the certification, raised a fist to protesters in the morning and was captured on camera in a photo some said would kill his political career.

Kunce launched his Senate campaign with a video of a man in a suit running  playing off of a video shown by the House Select Committee to Investigate the January 6 Attack on the U.S. Capitol that depicted Hawley running from the Senate chamber on January 6.

I would expect that the single picture of Josh Hawley raising his fist the morning of January 6th to encourage those who would ultimately rush the Capitol is going to be an image that will raise millions of dollars for Lucas Kunce, said Jeff Smith, a former Democratic state senator.

But Hawley has also fundraised off the photo, selling mugs with the image and the words show me strong. His campaign said he has raised more than $13 million since January 6, after several groups, like Hallmarks PAC, said they would no longer contribute to his campaign.

In recent elections, Democrats have had a history of sending millions to Democratic candidates competing against candidates that have earned the ire of their party. In 2020, both South Carolina Democrat Jamie Harrison and Kentucky Democrat Amy McGrath broke fundraising records while trying to unseat Sens. Lindsay Graham and Mitch McConnell, respectively. Both Harrison and McGrath lost by double-digits.

In Kansas that year, Democrats sent more than $24 million to Barbara Bollier in her campaign against Republican Roger Marshall, even though Marshall won the Senate seat easily.

But while its likely that millions will pour through Missouri in the election, Kunces fundraising total could mean his campaign is being embraced by the Missouri Democratic establishment in a way it wasnt in 2022, when, wary of Kunces more populist policy pitches, party leaders recruited Busch Valentine into the race.

Smith said Kunce worked hard after the last election to connect with both state and federal Democrats to win their support. There has been little indication that other prominent Missouri Democrats are seriously considering a Senate bid.

Democrats need to find something that works better in rural Missouri, Smith said. Democrats cant win statewide elections by getting 28 percent in the majority of counties.
Rep. Dan Goldman (D-N.Y.) on Monday accused Republicans of blatant antisemitism for repeatedly invoking George Soros name amid their attacks on the Manhattan district attorney leading a criminal probe into former President Donald Trump.

Goldman, one of two Jewish members of Congress from New York, leveled his charge at Republicans after an hours-long House Judiciary Committee hearing in Manhattan.

With antisemitic violence at record highs, todays hearing confirmed that invoking George Soross name is nothing short of blatant antisemitism, he tweeted after the hearing. I call on all Republicans to stop using this antisemitic trope immediately.

With antisemitic violence at record highs, todays hearing confirmed that invoking George Soross name is nothing short of blatant antisemitism.



I call on all Republicans to stop using this antisemitic trope immediately. pic.twitter.com/8gJtlCe29r  Rep. Dan Goldman (@RepDanGoldman) April 17, 2023

The hearing itself was a stunt. Committee chair Jim Jordan (R-Ohio), a close ally of former President Donald Trump, held it in New York City and billed it as a review of District Attorney Alvin Braggs bad policies on crime. Earlier this month, Bragg presented evidence that led a grand jury to charged Trump with 34 felony counts of falsifying business records in connection with an alleged scheme to cover up two extramarital affairs with hush money payments in order to influence the 2016 presidential election.

But GOP members used the hearing to tie Bragg to Soros, too. Several tried to cast Bragg as being part of a network of progressive district attorneys around the country who are weak on crime and who are all massively financed by Soros, the billionaire philanthropist and Democratic mega-donor.

To the extent that there is an impact on crime rates in major cities, I would suggest that that is exactly what you get with the Soros-ization of the United States justice system, said Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.), who is also a close Trump ally.

Story continues

The Soros prosecutors are not doing their jobs, said Rep. Thomas Tiffany (R-Wis.), lumping in Milwaukees district attorney with Bragg. In Wisconsin, now weve got a Soros Supreme Court justice. The people of Wisconsin better hang on because violent crime is going to get worse.

We can stop [crime] if we had good prosecutors, added Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-N.J.). Whos funding these progressive district attorneys? We should know that. Well, its George Soros.

In reality, New York City is one of the safest big cities in the country. Manhattan crime is down this year. Braggs policies likely havent had any significant effect on crime trends in Manhattan. And Soros never directly gave any money to Bragg. He contributed to a progressive criminal justice nonprofit, Color of Change, which supported Bragg and other Democratic candidates running for district attorney slots in 2021. Spokespeople for Soros and Color of Change have said there was never any coordination between the two.

Conservatives have long tried to demonize Soros. The Hungarian American Holocaust survivor has been the focus of wild and unfounded right-wing conspiracy theories claiming that he is the ringleader of a secret radical left agenda, with many of these theories being grounded in antisemitism. He received a bomb in the mail in 2018 at a time when Trump was piling on attacks against him. The Anti-Defamation League found that same year that Soros had been the target of a huge number of antisemitic tweets.

As Mondays hearing was underway, Goldman made it clear that the implication by Republicans was that Bragg and other left-leaning prosecutors were operating at the direction of Soros, which feeds into the antisemitic trope that Jewish people control money and politics.

Today weve already heard two members of the majority reference what one called the Soros-ization of the criminal justice system, which is, of course, a reference to George Soros, a Holocaust survivor who lived the American dream, he said. My constituents are very concerned that these smears related to Mr. Soros-supported prosecutors are antisemitic.

Rep. Dan Goldman (D-N.Y.) has an aide display an image of a demonstrator carrying a sign about philanthropist George Soros outside the site of the House Judiciary Committee field hearing in New York City. He ripped Republicans for making antisemitism a feature of their political attacks on Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg.

Rep. Dan Goldman (D-N.Y.) has an aide display an image of a demonstrator carrying a sign about philanthropist George Soros outside the site of the House Judiciary Committee field hearing in New York City. He ripped Republicans for making antisemitism a feature of their political attacks on Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg.

The New York Democrat said Republicans only needed to look outside the hearing room to see the ugly consequences of their efforts to smear Soros.

When I was walking in here, there was a man outside with a sign, said Goldman, as an aide held up a poster with an image of this sign on it. You saw it, right? Theres a Star of David with two dollar signs and Soros.

He directed his final question to one of the Republicans witnesses, Barry Borgen, a Bragg critic whose son was the victim of an antisemitic hate crime.

Would you say thats antisemitic? Goldman asked, motioning to the sign.

Thats 100% antisemitic, and its disgusting, Borgen replied. Disgusting.

Related...
 Flash

People visit a photo exhibition of city walls of the Chinese ancient capital Nanjing and the thousand-year-old Israeli city of Akko in the old city of Akko, northern Israel, June 13, 2022. [Photo/Xinhua]

China encourages both Israel and Palestine to show political courage and take steps to resume peace talks, and China is ready to provide convenience for this, Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang said Monday.

Qin, in a phone call with Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen, said China is concerned about the current tension between Israel and Palestine, and the current top priority is to bring the situation under control and prevent the conflict from escalating or even getting out of control.

All parties should maintain calm and restraint, and stop excessive and provocative words and deeds, Qin said, adding that the fundamental way out is to resume peace talks and implement the "two-state solution."

It is never too late to do the right thing, he said.

Chinese President Xi Jinping put forward the Global Security Initiative, and China believes that the key to solving the Israel-Palestine issue lies in upholding the vision of common security, Qin said.

China has no selfish interests on the Israel-Palestine issue, and only hopes that Israel and Palestine can coexist peacefully and safeguard regional peace and stability.

Cohen thanked China for its willingness to support the settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Israel is committed to cooling the situation, but the problem is not likely to be resolved in a short term, he added.

Israel attaches importance to China's influence, pays high attention to the Iranian nuclear issue and expects China to play a positive role, Cohen said.

Qin stressed that Saudi Arabia and Iran recently restored diplomatic relations through dialogue, setting a good example of overcoming differences through dialogue.

It is hoped that all parties will seize the favorable opportunity to promote dialogue and reconciliation, implement the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action on the Iranian nuclear issue, and safeguard peace and tranquility in the Middle East, Qin said.

Both sides indicated that they attach importance to bilateral relations.

Qin said that China is willing to strengthen exchanges at all levels with Israel, enhance mutual political trust and promote mutually beneficial cooperation.

Cohen said that he looks forward to the full recovery of cooperation in culture, tourism and other fields between the two countries after the COVID-19 pandemic, and is willing to work closely with China to push for new development of bilateral relations.
Shasti Conrad could have visited any part of Washington for her first big trip out as the new chair of the Washington State Democratic Party.

So why spend a week roaming the arid, Republican stronghold of Southeast Washington?

I felt like it was really important to show that I was going to be a chair for the entire state, Conrad told the Tri-City Herald over a stop in Kennewick.

I lived in the western part of the state. I was chair of King County Democrats for four years. Those folks know me, I know them. But now Im chair for the whole state and its important to me that we are playing in all parts of the state, and that I have these relationships  and that when were talking about messaging and perspective that it is inclusive of a more rural Washington.

Conrad  a former Obama Administration staffer and political consultant by trade  spent most of last week speaking at party luncheons and forums in Walla Walla, Dayton and Yakima. Her visit concluded with an event hosted by the Tri-City Democrats.

In the coming months, Washington Democrats will look to build a broad coalition of Eastern Washington candidates to run for local offices in Yakima, Sunnyside and Pasco, and then pivot to statewide opportunities in 2024.

During the 2022 midterm election, nearly 200,000 voted for Democratic candidates in Washingtons 4th and 5th Congressional districts, and Conrad believes theres some ground to be gained in Eastern Washington.

You have to operate at the speed of trust, she said. Its neighborliness, you know. And I think as Democrats we know that is true when organizing, but I think weve forgot about that a little bit, that we could be doing that type of work in places, like out here.

Conrad was selected to lead the Washington Democrats on Jan. 28, after then-Chair Tina Podlodowski announced plans to step down. She received the backing of Gov. Jay Inslee and Washingtons two U.S. senators in her bid for party head.

At 38, she is the youngest chair in the partys history and the first woman of color to serve.

Story continues

We think she is going to be a great party chair, said Franklin County Democrats Chair Ana Ruiz Kennedy.

Raised on a farm in Newberg, Ore., Conrad knows all too well the struggles of rural organizing.

It takes plenty of time and boots-on-the-ground politicking  two things that, when it comes to the Tri-Cities, Democrats have historically neglected to invest in.

Ruiz Kennedy said its exciting to have Conrad looking to Southeast Washington for opportunity.

Thats something we have brought to her (attention) and something that we want to have the states buy-in because its different from what we have typically seen from the party, she said.

Running on Republican fatigue

The Tri-Cities skews conservative, despite pockets of Pasco and Richland where Democrats outperform Republicans on a consistent basis. Former President Donald Trump won Benton County during the 2020 presidential election by a margin of 20 percentage points and Franklin County by a margin of 14 percentage points.

Conrad believes many voters are fatigued by the GOPs fascination with Trump. So much so that Democrats are hoping they can key in on the political pessimism thats permeated moderate voters.

She points to Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, D-Skamania, who edged out Trump-backed candidate Joe Kent last year in an incumbentless general election battle to represent Southwest Washington in Congress.

The district leans Republican but had gone for Obama in 2008. A Jaime Herrera Beutler, a Republican, had represented the seat for more than a decade until this year.

(Perez) was able to speak to the issues in a way that matched what folks were going through, and we were able to really build on the organizing that had been done on previous cycles to do that. So, weve got to be doing that out here ..., Conrad said.

Theyll need to highlight recent Democratic accomplishments  including the Child Tax Credit expansion and President Joe Bidens Bipartisan Infrastructure Law  to win over working families, Conrad said.

This is their choice: The GOP is not abandoning Trump and that MAGA, far-right mentality, Conrad said. Were not dealing with the Republican Party of your grandparents era, where we can have conversations about tax code. Thats not what were dealing with. Were dealing with folks who, I think, are out of alignment with Democracy.

Conrads predecessor, Podlodowski, made ripples last year after lambasting the former Benton County Democrats chair for endorsing a Republican candidate in an open Benton County prosecutor race where no Democrat was competing.

Richard Reuther, former Benton County Democrats chair, said he thought it was appropriate to let Democrats know which candidate he believed was the more qualified and moderate.

Conrad said they have to take those issues on a case-by-case basis, and at the end of the day theyre going to support Democrats.

I believe very much in a big-tent party, but at the end of the day there has to be a baseline. You have to be willing to say, Yes, I believe in the values of the Democratic Party, she said.

2024 and beyond

Its not clear yet if Democrats will challenge any Tri-City legislators in 2024. Seats representing the 8th, 15th and 16th Legislative Districts are filled solidly by Republicans.

U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., will run for a fifth term at the top of the Democratic ticket, Conrad says.

Inslee has not said yet whether or not he plans to run for what would be, by all accounts, an unprecedented fourth term for governor.

Democrats currently hold all the executive statewide offices, and Conrad says they will work to keep those while also advocating for more cultural and racial diversity in the Legislature.

I think hes been an incredible governor and I think its ultimately his decision. But if he decides to go for it well support him, and if not well see who takes poll position and well support them, Conrad said of Inslee.
Activists holding abortion rights signs shout slogans during

Abortion rights activists outside the U.S. Supreme Court in Washington, DC. on April 15. Credit - Probal Rashid/LightRocketGetty Images

The future of access to the abortion pill in the U.S. may depend on where you live. Since the Supreme Courts decision in June overturned national access to abortion, leaving the matter up to individual states, the nation has split: 27 states now allow abortion, while 13 states ban it, while the others either have temporary blocks on abortion bans, or gestational restrictions on when abortions can be performed.

Now, medication abortionwhich makes up more than half of abortions performed in the U.S.is under threat, even in Democratic states. In early April, a Texas district judge ruled that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of the abortion pill mifepristone should be suspended. The Supreme Court has stepped in to put a temporary hold on that ruling until midnight on Apr. 19.

For now, mifepristone is still an approved medication. But given the uncertainty of what the Supreme Court could decide, and the precariousness of the legal status of mifepristone, governors in states where abortion is legal are going on the offensive, taking steps to ensure that access to mifepristone continues for as long as possible. If the courts decide the drug is no longer FDA-approved, its unclear what will happen to the current supply of mifepristone already in clinics, hospitals, and reproductive health centers. There has never been a situation where a long-approved drug has its FDA approval questioned by the court system.

How Democratic states are responding

To protect against potential shortages, Massachusetts governor Maura Healey requested that the University of Massachusetts purchase 15,000 doses of the drug, which should be enough to treat patients for about a year. The state is committing $1 million to purchasing additional doses ordered by health care providers in Massachusetts.

In California, Gov. Gavin Newsom plans to purchase up to 2 million doses of misoprostol, another drug thats FDA-approved, when used in combination with mifepristone, to induce abortion. While misoprostol is also FDA-approved to treat ulcers, it can be prescribed off-label to induce abortion without mifepristone, and its used on its own as an abortion medication in many countries around the world. The combination is approved in the U.S. because the two drugs together are slightly more effective and produce fewer side effects than misoprostol alone. California purchased the pills through its CalRx program, an initiative launched in 2019 designed to make prescription drugs more accessible and affordable through a network of state pharmacies to the states residents.

Story continues

Read More: What Nine Months Means to a Pregnant Person

New York governor Kathy Hochul has also instructed the states Department of Health to stockpile 150,000 doses of misoprostol, enough to treat patients in the state for five years. To further protect doctors who prescribe misoprostol off-label for abortion, Hochul also proposed legislation to require private insurers to cover misoprostol when its used for abortion, and to discourage higher malpractice rates for health-care professionals who prescribe the drug for that purpose. Since 1970, the right to abortion has been written into state law, but Hochul is working to make access easier, including allowing pharmacists to write prescriptions and permitting stockpiling if courts decide specific drugs for medical abortions are illegal.

If mifepristone is removed from the market as a result of the court battle, Hochul said the state would dedicate $20 million to provide other strategies for abortion care.

Gov. Jay Inslee of Washington recently announced that he had instructed the Department of Corrections in the state to purchase a three-year supply of mifepristone through its pharmacy, and the University of Washington has also bought 100,000 doses.

In other states where abortion is legal, officials are ensuring that access to the drug remains unencumbered. Gov. JB Pritzker of Illinois said in an emailed statement to TIME that we have offered providers Medicaid advances for both mifepristone and misoprostol to ensure they have abortion medication available and can offer this gold standard healthcare as long as possible. As long as I am Governor, Illinois will do everything possible to keep abortion safe and legal.

Depending on what the Supreme Court decides about mifepristone, these supplies of mifepristone and misoprostol could become a new battleground in the fight for abortion, as states where abortion remains legal enter new territory to defend reproductive rights.
Senate Democrats are staring down a dilemma after Republicans roundly opposed the call to temporarily replace Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) on the Judiciary Committee.

Theyve been left with no choice but to wait it out amid a growing backlog of judicial nominations.

Senate Republicans on Monday panned the idea of filling Feinsteins post on the panel.

Some pointed to their newfound ability to block partisan judges from being voted out of the Judiciary Committee, which is deadlocked without Feinstein, and reaching the Senate floor. Others cried ageism.

And several argued that if the six-term senator will be back soon, as Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) said on Monday, theres no need for someone to replace her for any length of time.

With the GOP not giving an inch and Feinstein, 89, not bowing to pressure to resign, Democrats are left in a tricky position.

They would love to keep the train of judicial nominations running smoothly, but they also want to respect the longest-tenured member of the Senate Democratic Caucus who is revered in many corners.

It has left them with no choice but to wait for her return.

I dont think its clear yet how quickly her recovery is coming around.  If she could come back in a week or two, I think thats fine  even several weeks, Sen. John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.) said. Shes someone whos served this country for a long time in a very high level. She deserves to create her own timeline.

She knows in her heart of hearts how quickly she can get here. She knows how important it is  that we need her. So lets give her a little time to sort through it.

Feinstein has been sidelined with shingles since senators returned from the February recess, throwing multiple wrenches into the business of the upper chamber in the meantime. The committee last voted to advance a judicial nominee on Feb. 16 and has been forced to cancel the last three markups on nominations.

There are 14 nominees who have appeared for Judiciary Committee hearings but have yet to receive a vote from the panel.

Story continues

That frustration boiled over in some corners last week as a pair of House members, headlined by Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), called for her to resign.

At issue now is how Senate Democrats navigate the difficult waters that the situation presents.

Outside of waiting, there is no immediate plan.

I dont know. I cant tell you the moves on the chessboard, Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Va.) told The Hill. But were not going to give up giving our majority on the Judiciary Committee. We worked too hard for it.

According to multiple Senate Democrats, the issues surrounding Feinsteins absence did not come up at their first luncheon after recess. Schumer reiterated afterward to reporters that he expects her back very soon, adding that he would try to fill her spot with Sen. Ben Cardin (D-Md.).

He attempted to do that via unanimous consent Tuesday evening but was blocked by Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.).

Other top Democrats also stayed mum on the situation. When asked about how the majority can manage her absence, Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), the chairman of the Judiciary Committee, simply said: Its up to Sen. Feinstein.

Nevertheless, the party knows they have an issue at hand as they continue to struggle to advance their judicial nominees to full votes on the floor.

Its a problem, Sen. Jon Tester (D-Mont.) told The Hill.

This is all on Dianne, more than anything, and Dianne has been here and accomplished some marvelous things, and she will have to make a decision on whether shes going to continue or not, Tester told reporters. But its not my decision or anyone elses.

The already-intense GOP opposition to filling her post on Judiciary went to another level on Tuesday as Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) said in a floor speech that Senate Republicans will not take part in sidelining a temporary absent colleague off the committee just so Democrats can force through their very worst nominees.

He added that a bunch of the 14 nominees currently awaiting committee votes could win bipartisan approval, pointing to four who are especially extreme or especially unqualified.

No firm timeline has been laid out for Feinsteins return. When she announced in early March she was released from the hospital following her shingles diagnosis, she said that she planned to return as soon as possible.

The open-ended phrasing has kept Capitol Hill guessing.

Its just a matter of when, Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) reportedly told reporters on Tuesday, adding that she has kept in touch with her fellow longtime San Francisco Democrat. With all due respect to all of the people who have served, and we owe them respect for when they are sick, for them to get well and to take the time to do it. That should apply to her as well as to all the others.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
(Bloomberg) -- Ron DeSantis has a plan to outmaneuver Donald Trump: Push Florida  and the Republican party  further to the right than ever. Some in the GOP are growing fearful hes going too far.

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The 44-year-old governor has orchestrated one of the most abrupt conservative takeovers of state government in modern US history, making a one-time swing state center stage in the the countrys culture wars. Last week, DeSantis signed a bill that prohibits abortion in Florida after six weeks of pregnancy, among the tightest restrictions put in place since the Supreme Court overturned the federal right to abortion last year.

DeSantis and Floridas Republican-controlled legislature have also in the span of just 42 days further eased the states already relaxed gun laws, expanded school vouchers and helped shield insurance companies from lawsuits. Before a whirlwind legislative session ends next month, severe immigration curbs and new limits on transgender health care are also likely to be signed into law by DeSantis, who has pointed to a landslide re-election victory as a mandate.

We find ourselves in Florida on the front lines in the battle for freedom, DeSantis said in his State of the State address in March. We wont back down. And I can promise you this, you aint seen nothing yet.

Powered by a roaring economy, DeSantiss transformation of the Sunshine State into a conservative nirvana is likely to have staying power. The governor has been able to rely on Floridas growing billionaire class to keep his campaign coffers flush, while drawing electoral power from voters excited by his culture-warrior stance.

Story continues

For DeSantiss opponents, the avalanche of conservative initiatives has created a feeling of powerlessness.

This is a horrific time. We dont have the numbers to make the difference that needs to be made, said Senate Minority Leader Lauren Book, who was arrested this month at a protest against the abortion ban at the state Capitol. We cant stop anything. DeSantis is doing all these things that have completely changed the landscape of Florida, simply because he wants talking points in his run for president.

Despite his success in pushing through his agenda, DeSantiss potential candidacy for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination has recently faltered. Trump's lead over DeSantis in the polls widened after the former president was charged in Manhattan with concealing hush-money payments to an adult film star. DeSantis also hurt himself with comments about Russias war in Ukraine that angered fellow Republicans.

Read more: DeSantis Teases Idea of Building Prison Near Disney Park

At the same time, some Republican officials and donors worry that the party has swung too far to the right. Thomas Peterffy, the billionaire chairman of Interactive Brokers, told the Financial Times that he was putting support of DeSantis on hold due to his positions on social issues.

DeSantis and other Republican presidential hopefuls face a tricky balancing act, said Adam Weiss, a political strategist who worked for Trump in 2020. If Republicans move too far right, they will alienate the moderate voters who tend to make the difference in a general election.

We are pleased to see the legislature taking up many of the important issues proposed by Governor DeSantis leading up to session, said Jeremy Redfern, the governors deputy press secretary. We look forward to and expect much more to come before session ends.

Wealthy Influx

DeSantiss maneuvers are one part of a broader transformation taking place in the USs third most populous state and fourth-largest economy.

Floridas lack of a state income tax, amenable weather and conservative politics made it a magnet for the wealthy during the Covid-19 pandemic. Billionaires including Ken Griffin, Carl Icahn and Orlando Bravo moved to the state, bringing along their businesses and hundreds of affluent employees.

Read more: Griffin Brings Billions to Miami With Political Winds at His Back

As real estate boomed and pandemic restrictions eased, reviving tourism, Floridas economy blossomed, growing about 4% in 2022. Unemployment is at an all-time low of 2.6%, and wages have increased 9% year-over-year. DeSantis beat Democratic challenger Charlie Crist by nearly 19 percentage points in last years gubernatorial race, a notable victory in an otherwise lackluster election season for the GOP.

Yet Floridas metamorphosis has also had a darker undercurrent, with large increases in home prices and rents creating housing shortages. At Lotus Village, a homeless shelter that houses more than 520 women and children in Miami, there's unprecedented demand for our shelter beds, said Constance Collins, who started the Lotus House nonprofit after a career as a real estate lawyer.

We didnt have enough affordable housing to begin with, she said. We have many people flowing into Florida right now from across the country and that has made a situation that was already difficult, more challenging.

DeSantis signed into law a $711 million affordable housing plan on March 29. But some of his critics say he has focused too much on cultural issues and that laying the groundwork for his presidential run has pulled him away from its day-to-day business and its deeper problems. Last week, DeSantis flew back to Tallahassee from Ohio, where he was promoting his book, to sign the abortion ban, according to Politico. He then returned to the book tour even as densely populated Fort Lauderdale was flooded by heavy rain.

Political candidates frequently embrace more radical views to set themselves apart in primary races, but DeSantiss overhaul is the starkest shift Florida has ever seen, according to Mac Stipanovich, a longtime Republican strategist in the state.

Florida has become Alabama with palm trees, said Stipanovich, who has also been a vocal critic of Trump. DeSantis appears to embrace the philosophy that you cant win the general if you dont win the primary, so hes trying to position himself as the most extreme candidate.

Indeed, DeSantiss rapid-fire remodeling hasnt been embraced by everyone. A new law that allows people to carry a concealed gun without a permit was opposed by more than three-quarters of Floridians. The so-called Stop-WOKE law that restricts how race can be taught in schools is being challenged in courts. And a small number of Republican lawmakers from Democratic-leaning areas broke ranks on the abortion bill.

I was not expecting these backwards social policies here. DeSantis didnt start out with these far-right policies, said Robert Morrison, who moved to Florida five years ago after retiring as a musician at the Metropolitan Opera in New York. Morrison lives in Wilton Manors, a South Florida town with a high concentration of married same-sex couples. Im thinking about moving if this continues this way.

Books Battle

Before the latest legislative barrage, in March 2022 DeSantis signed the Parental Rights in Education Law, which prohibits teaching about sexual orientation through third grade. Dubbed the Dont Say Gay law by critics, it ignited a war between DeSantis and one of the states largest employers, Walt Disney Co., and has led to almost weekly controversy over removing books from classrooms and school libraries.

Parental complaints have led to more than 560 books being banned either temporarily or permanently from schools over the past year, according to advocacy groups. DeSantis has said only books with pornographic, violent or inappropriate content were removed.

Those skirmishes have led to disenchantment in a state that along with beaches and theme parks also has a vibrant literary and artistic culture.

Mitchell Kaplan, 68, created Books & Books in affluent Coral Gables in 1982. The shop is a staple of South Floridas cultural life, though far away from its partying reputation. In its spacious patio, where musicians play at night, the words Censorship leaves us in the dark are painted on the wall.

While its creating horrible amounts of damage in the interim, I believe that these policies will eventually be rejected by the public, Kaplan said.

More conservative measures are likely to become law soon. Floridas legislature is expected to take up a bill that would bring felony charges for sheltering, transporting or hiring undocumented immigrants. If passed, it would be one of the most punitive in the country, said Shannon Gleeson, professor at Cornell Universitys School of Industrial and Labor Relations.

This is devastating for undocumented workers, who often work in jobs that are more poorly paid, dangerous, and subject to discrimination and harassment, Gleeson said.

Tessa Petit, who came to South Florida in 2001 from Haiti and is now co-executive director of the Florida Immigrant Coalition, said DeSantis is so eager to win that hes putting his base at risk. Conservative Latinos helped power his re-election victory, with DeSantis netting 58% of the Hispanic vote, compared with 44% in his first gubernatorial run. That helped him become the first Republican to win Miami-Dade County, which is nearly 70% Hispanic, in 20 years.

Few aspects of life in Florida have been untouched by DeSantiss revamp. In Sarasota, DeSantis has sought to remake New College of Florida, a small school similar in spirit to the liberal-arts colleges that dot New England, in the image of Hillsdale College, a Christian school in Michigan active in conservative politics. That has led more high-school students to say they wont seek to attend a state-run university, a recent survey found. And in Lake Buena Vista, DeSantis is waging cultural wars at the gates of Walt Disney World.

Further conservative changes are possible. DeSantis is pushing to ban state and local governments from using environmental, social and governance criteria when issuing municipal bonds. He has also vowed to fight adoption of the digital dollar, the object of a Federal Reserve-backed study that DeSantis claims will be used to control citizens lives. And hes backing bills that would restrict press freedom in the state.

To some of his wealthiest backers, DeSantis still makes a compelling choice. At a recent Palm Beach event, Griffin, the founder of Citadel and Citadel Securities, said that hed love to see DeSantis run for president. The hedge-fund billionaire, who made Miami his home last year, sees DeSantis as the ultimate symbol of Floridas improving education, crime and overall prosperity.

I think the results in this state speak for themselves, he said.

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Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis at a Republican Party dinner in Manchester, N.H., April 14. (Charles Krupa/AP)

MANCHESTER, N.H.  Last Friday, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis traveled to New Hampshire, which is set to host the first Republican presidential primary next year, to rally support for the state GOP  and for his prospective campaign  under the guise of a book tour.

A few months ago, DeSantis was riding high in national polls and running neck and neck with former President Donald Trump. But following Trumps aggressive recent attacks on DeSantis, the governors support has steadily declined and political insiders optimism for his campaign has diminished. Trump and his team have insinuated, with scant evidence, that DeSantis had inappropriate relationships with underaged girls when he was a schoolteacher, and a Trump-supporting super-PAC latched onto an anonymous source that claimed that DeSantis sometimes ate pudding with his fingers.

So DeSantis made his pre-campaign swing through the crucial early primary state under a cloud of growing uncertainty about his prospects.

On his first trip to New Hampshire as a possible 2024 contender, DeSantis packed a large event room at the Doubletree in Manchester for the state Republican Partys major annual fundraiser, the Amos Tuck Dinner. (A few days after DeSantiss stop, Trump announced he would appear at the exact same hotel next week for his own swing through New Hampshire.)

DeSantis in Manchester. (Brian Snyder/Reuters)

DeSantis was not known for being friendly when he was in Congress from 2013 to 2018. While other House lawmakers are typically chummy and personable around the Capitol, DeSantis would walk around with earbuds in his ears, generally avoiding people.

But inside the DoubleTree hotel in downtown Manchester, packed with Republican officials and activists who will play a key role in selecting the next Republican nominee, DeSantis came across as a regular guy  affable and easygoing. And his warm reception from local Republican activists suggests that many remain undecided and are open to backing DeSantis.

His speech was not without a hiccup: He stoically dismissed a handful of protesters who rushed the stage and unfurled a banner reading Jews against DeSantis during his speech, saying, You gotta have a little spice in the speech, right? The protesters were quickly removed by security, and the Florida governor stuck close to a stump speech tailored to New Hampshires brand of libertarian conservatism.

Story continues

The day after signing a 6-week abortion ban into law in Florida, DeSantis made no mention of the issue. Instead he touted his leadership of Florida and described victories that helped raise his national profile, like flying undocumented immigrants from Texas to Massachusetts and fighting Disneys special tax status in Florida because the company supported woke policies.

The Florida governor said that on taking office he was advised to adopt a more moderate tone to survive life in what used to be a swing state, but he refused to be a potted plant in office.

DeSantis said he was told, Keep your head down, dont make any waves, bide your time and lay low. I understood that advice, it was not crazy advice. But I rejected that advice.

DeSantis also avoided directly mentioning Trump by name, but landed some jabs clearly directed at the former president, promising that if he was in the White House they wouldnt be bogged down in perpetual palace drama and fighting among staff.

Protesters briefly disrupt DeSantis's address before they were promptly removed by security. (Charles Krupa/AP)

After wrapping up his hour-long speech, DeSantis hopped off the stage into the crowd to start working the room. Republican activists crowded him as he walked around the tables, signing copies of his new book, The Courage to be Free, and taking selfies with them.

Trump remains the person to beat in most polls of early primary states like New Hampshire. The rank and file of the party still speak highly of the former president, but that doesnt mean theyve closed the door on alternatives to Trump. Throughout the room, activists said they hadnt yet decided who they would vote for, but were interested in what they considered to be DeSantiss brand of cleaned-up Trumpism.

I was a very early Trump supporter, even prior to him actually getting in and 2016, but I like Ron DeSantis as well, Doug Lambert, vice chair of the Belknap County GOP in New Hampshire and long a fixture in New Hampshire conservative politics, told Yahoo News after taking a selfie with the governor. I think that there's a lot of similarities on the issues between the two of them. And Im giving Ron a very serious look, I think that he has a lot of the good of Trump without some of the baggage.

DeSantiss prickly personality has long been cited by Republican operatives as an indicator that the Florida governor would struggle in early voting states like New Hampshire and Iowa, where voters demand one-on-one time with the candidates.

But like so many other aspects of modern politics, there are signs that personal contact and charisma doesnt matter as much as it used to. DeSantiss would-be campaign team has already started to map out a plan to win votes in states across the country that often get overlooked because they hold their contests later. Their plans to secure delegates to the Republican National Convention in 2016 suggests a drawn-out battle that could stretch all the way from the first primary votes cast next February to the 2024 Republican convention in Milwaukee.

Despite not having formally announced yet, DeSantiss de facto campaign has kept up the pace of a full-fledged White House run. He is in Washington, D.C., this week to build support from members of Congress in a meeting put together by And to the Republic  a political group formed by a supporter from Michigan who has been helping him win congressional endorsements.

He is also set to headline a 50th anniversary event for the Heritage Foundation later this week. Behind the scenes, DeSantiss team has been working to stop Florida Republican House members from endorsing Trump.

And a super-PAC backing the Florida governor this week issued its own first blast against Trump, accusing him of being a gun-grabber who would support efforts at gun control.

Alan Glassman, treasurer of the New Hampshire Republican Party, recounted taking photos of DeSantis years ago, when he threw the opening pitch at a Little League game in Florida, and later presented DeSantis with some of the photos.

Im pretty confident that Governor DeSantis can do everything that people would want as a president. That's not to say that he would be the president, that's up in the air. Nobody knows whos going to be the president in 2024, Glassman said. But we have to give all of our good candidates an opportunity, and he's certainly a good candidate.
The political uproar over racial and ethnic studies programs in higher education is clouding the reality that few four-year institutions offer a major in Latino studies.

Such small numbers also are the reality with majors in the study of other racial and ethnic groups.

A major in Latino studies is offered by just 89 of more than 2,600 four-year colleges and universities, according to a new report by The Latinx Research Center at the University of California, Berkeley.

Further, the majority of those programs, most established after the Mexican American and Puerto Rican student movements of the 1960s and 1970s, are dramatically underfunded and understaffed, with many having one or no core tenure-track faculty in the program, the researchers found.

Just 252 four-year higher education institutions, or 9%, offer an African American or a Black studies major; 52, or 2%, offer an Asian American studies major; 74 or 3% offer a Native American studies major; and 146 or 5% offer a broader Ethnic Studies major, the Berkley research released this month found.

Given those numbers, the turmoil over ethnic studies seems overblown, said G. Cristina Mora, the studys lead author.

We are far from having an equitable higher education system that offers the classes and research opportunities on all communities, and at the same time, its quite ironic that these nascent and vulnerable programs are targeted because they are somehow taking over, she added.

Lack of investment in Latino studies is really a willful blindness as we move into the future, she said.

Conservative fears over the study of white supremacys role in the making of the U.S. and its persistence in American institutions have led to campaigns to narrow ethnic studies instruction.

But Latino and other racial and ethnic studies not only tell the stories of respective communities, but also are critical to collecting demographic data, Mora said.

Students in programs with classes on Latino demographics, Mora said, gain better understanding of why some cities are growing at a faster rate than others. Through Latino politics classes, students learn to better understand Latino political trends and how they differ from one state to the next, she said.

Story continues

Nonetheless, the teaching of accomplishments, histories, demographics, culture and more of Latino, Black, Asian and Native Americans and others has become a magnet for political vitriol and a conservative clampdown.

In Florida  where nearly 6 million or more than a quarter of residents are Latino  a House bill aims to curtail teaching about race and the histories of Latinos and others. The bill is based on the political wish list of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who is expected to be a 2024 Republican presidential candidate. Texas has also targeted racial and ethnic studies and their instructors, even though Latinos outnumber every other racial group in the state, including non-Hispanic white people.

Critics of ethnic studies seem to be operating on a caricature of what this intellectual study is, Mora said.

Researchers 'alarmed' by academia's slow pace

Mora said she and her fellow researchers launched their study to see if universities have been keeping pace.

The U.S. has some 62 million Latinos whose backgrounds range from those with deep roots in regions that were part of Spain and Mexico before they were U.S. states, to descendants of enslaved people exported to Latin America, to recent arrivals in the country. More than half of the nations growth in 2020 was driven by Latinos, while the white population numbers have shrunk.

The Latino populations younger makeup means it is providing a steady stream of college-age Americans and will do so for years to come.

That trend is reflected in the increase in Hispanic Serving Institutions, or HSIs, which numbered 571 in 2021-22. HSIs are two- and four-year institutions with 25% or more full-time, enrolled students are Hispanic or Latino. Latino enrollment at all four-year institutions has been increasing over the past couple of decades.

Mora said they expected to find some growth in the hiring of Latino faculty and investment in Latino studies. She said, however, that they were alarmed by how flat the trends have been.

Their research also showed that most of the growth of Latino studies programs is happening at private universities. Some of the newer programs appear to be shell programs when it comes to staffing and classes. Half of those established since 2000s have none or one faculty member. Often some of the newer programs rely on a lecturer or an adjunct professor to run the program, she said.

The researchers found several programs offered only Spanish-language classes  even though a substantial share of U.S. Latinos dont speak Spanish fluently, according to Mora.

Latino Studies grew out of a community imperative, the result of strikes and demands that academia reflect our histories and stories, which is the story of all ethnic studies, Mora said.

The first universities to form Latino studies programs were public land grant universities in the West and Southwest with strong investment. But the growth of Latino studies programs stagnated in the 1980s and 1990s and jump-started again in the 2000s, with some new programs in the Midwest, following Latino demographic trends, Mora said.

We dont suggest that everyone has to major in Latino studies, but we do suggest that Latino studies is a really important course of intellectual understanding that helps all students and all Americans, she said.

The way I see Latino studies, I see a real opportunity for diverse understandings of where we have come from to better understand where we are going, Mora said. Latino communities arent going anywhere. They are just becoming a much more important part of the country.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Carolina Ledesma Garcia washes asparagus in her house, where she relies on nonpotable water delivered to a 2,500-gallon tank. Her family's well in the Tombstone neighborhood of Fresno County went dry about three years ago. (Gary Coronado / Los Angeles Times)

In a neighborhood surrounded by almond orchards and citrus groves southeast of Fresno, large plastic cisterns occupy the yards of many homes, and residents have learned to ration water until the next tanker truck arrives.

Even after major storms have boosted California rivers and reservoirs, many in the unincorporated community of Tombstone Territory continue to rely on state-funded water deliveries. Some of their wells went dry last year, while others have been coping with dry wells for as long as three years.

It is really a struggle, said Anita Torres, 61. Sometimes I just cry because I'm so frustrated.

Since her well failed, she and her family have been taking short showers and lugging 5-gallon jugs into their home to cook and drink.

The well at Anita Torres' house in Fresno County well went dry in 2022. "It's really a struggle," she says. (Gary Coronado / Los Angeles Times)

Tombstone is one of many communities in the San Joaquin Valley where chronic overpumping of groundwater by agriculture has left homeowners with dry wells.

Following three years of severe drought, the list of families who rely on state-funded water deliveries has grown dramatically. At the same time, the state has struggled to address a growing backlog of requests for new and deeper wells or for connections to water systems in neighboring cities.

The plight of residents in Tombstone and other communities has sparked heated criticism of the state government for not doing more to limit excessive pumping by large farms.

We need to rein in the water abuse that's happening right now and build the infrastructure that we need, said Chirag Bhakta, California director of the advocacy group Food & Water Watch. California likes to put itself out there, as a climate leader, as progressives on the climate issues and on global warming, but right in our backyard, right here in California, that's not what our water situation actually shows.

The group said in a recent report that the many dry wells in Tombstone Territory show the inequities in the states policies and point to a need for Gov. Gavin Newsom to curb agricultural pumping and prioritize water for residents. Bhakta and other activists have called for the Newsom administration to limit water use for such crops as almonds and pistachios, which corporate growers have planted across vast portions of the Central Valley over the past decade.

Story continues

Blooming almond orchards spread out near the Tombstone neighborhood in unincorporated Fresno County, where residents' wells have gone dry as farms have pumped groundwater. (Gary Coronado / Los Angeles Times)

Groundwater depletion has progressively worsened through both wet and dry periods in the Central Valley, and accelerated over the last three years as heavy pumping sent aquifer levels plunging to new lows.

Scientists have estimated that groundwater losses since 1961 have totaled 93 million acre-feet  more than three times the capacity of Lake Mead, the nation's largest reservoir.

The gains made during wet years simply cant offset the overpumping during the dry years in between," Jay Famiglietti, a hydrologist and professor at Arizona State University, wrote recently. "In fact, the states groundwater deficit is now so large that it will never be fully replenished.

Throughout the San Joaquin Valley, about 1,800 households are receiving water deliveries by truck, according to the organization Self-Help Enterprises, which runs the state-funded program. The largest numbers of dry household wells have been reported in Fresno County, where 518 homes now depend on water delivered by truck.

The increasing numbers of dry wells and homeowners waiting for solutions show that the effects of overpumping will persist for years to come, even as the state goes through wet times.

Tombstone resident Carolina Ledesma Garcia, 48, recalls the day in 2019 when Newsom came to her neighborhood to announce legislation that was intended to help the approximately 1 million Californians who live with unsafe drinking water.

The governor met with residents to hear their concerns about wells going dry, and about nitrate contamination from fertilizers.

Newsom told them the new legislation would accelerate progress toward solutions in their community and others.

Natalia Ledesma, 9, drinks water from a 5-gallon jug at her home in the neighborhood of Tombstone in Fresno County. Her mother Carolina Ledesma Garcia, 48, right, relies on state-funded shipments of bottled water and deliveries of nonpotable water that fill a household tank. (Gary Coronado/Los Angeles Times)

Ledesma, a former farmworker originally from Michoacan, Mexico, lives with her five children and her construction worker husband. They have been relying on weekly water deliveries since their well dried up about three years ago.

They are waiting for the state and the nearby city of Sanger to run a water pipe to their homes.

The solution is for Sanger to help us, Ledesma said.

The project has taken longer than expected, however.

Ledesma said she hopes the governor follows through and "he doesn't fail us."

A water tower stands over downtown Sanger. (Gary Coronado / Los Angeles Times)

The state has provided Sanger nearly $6 million for projects that include running a water pipe in a one-mile loop to Tombstone, installing a new water tank and helping drill a new well. The water connection was originally slated to be finished by the end of 2022, but state officials said the project was delayed because some property owners didnt want to allow access to build the pipeline and connections.

State officials said the city is looking at alternative paths for laying the pipe and will need to negotiate easements with landowners before moving ahead with construction.

The state is committed to solving Tombstones drinking water problems, said Alex Stack, a spokesperson for the governors office.

For now, 35 property owners have expressed interest in being connected to the water system, said Mariana Alvarenga, a policy advocate with the group Leadership Counsel for Justice and Accountability who has been working with the community.

Alex Garcia, Ledesmas 33-year-old nephew who lives across the street, said he hopes to be able to connect once the water line is built, but hes starting to wonder whether that will happen.

I honestly think they're not going to help us out, Garcia said. If they do, who knows when?

Carolina Ledesma Garcia relies on water delivered to a 2,500-gallon tank at her home in Fresno County. A second tank supplies a neighboring home where her brother lives. (Gary Coronado / Los Angeles Times)

The wait for water adds to the economic challenges faced by residents of a predominantly Latino community, particularly for those who work on farms, are retired or dont have steady jobs.

Some live in homes their families built decades ago on land that was once a vineyard. They say the name Tombstone may come from the cemetery down the road, where gravestones dating to the late 1800s and early 1900s stand listing on uneven ground.

Homeowners regularly go outside to check how much water is left in their tanks, slapping and banging the plastic to gauge the water level.

Torres said when her family mistakenly used up the water in their tank, they had to shower at her granddaughters house until the next shipment arrived. To ration water, she has told her family they cant take baths. She drives to the laundromat to wash their bedding.

Lorenzo Chapa walks in his yard in the neighborhood of Tombstone in Fresno County. He does not know how deep his well is, shown left, and he still has running water. (Gary Coronado / Los Angeles Times)

I'm hoping they hurry up and connect to us, Torres said. We never thought it was going to be this long.

Her husband, Michael Torres, a retired pipe manufacturing worker, said he feels angry that farmers have drilled more wells and planted more almonds in recent years. Around the neighborhood, almond orchards have recently bloomed with white blossoms.

Theyre sucking up all the water, he said. They should cut back.

Neighbor Ray Cano, a 51-year-old mail carrier, agrees.

Ray Cano has running water from the well at his home in Fresno County, but the area's water is contaminated with nitrate. He has been waiting to be hooked to the city of Sanger's water supply. (Gary Coronado/Los Angeles Times)

Cano has seen drilling rigs boring new wells on nearby farms, and hes concerned those wells are deeper than the household wells.

They shouldn't be allowed to drill and pump water with impunity, Cano said. There should be restrictions placed on them, too.

Local agencies are starting to implement plans for combating overpumping under the states 2014 Sustainable Groundwater Management Act, and state regulators have recently told local agencies in parts of the San Joaquin Valley that their plans are inadequate.

But Tombstone is in the Kings subbasin in Fresno County, where regulators have recommended approving local groundwater plans.

More than 1,400 dry household wells were reported throughout California last year, the highest number since the state started tracking reports of well failures in 2013.

So far this year, 140 dry wells have been reported to the state.

Tombstone is one of a number of Central Valley communities waiting to be linked to functioning water systems. To the south in Tulare County, state regulators have directed the city of Exeter to connect its water system to 77 homes in Tooleville, where the tap water is contaminated with cancer-causing hexavalent chromium and nitrate, and where the wells have been failing.

State officials say dozens of other consolidations have been completed under a program that provides funds to ensure clean and affordable drinking water, which the state declared a basic human right under legislation in 2012.

Michael Torres, left, talks with neighbor Tom Cook outside Cook's home in the Fresno County community of Tombstone, where a crew had just finished drilling a new well. (Gary Coronado / Los Angeles Times)

But many other rural homeowners with dry wells see the only solution as drilling a new well.

There are 204 low-income households that have state funding approved and are on a list to have new wells drilled, said Tami McVay, director of emergency services for SelfHelp Enterprises.

They're just waiting for the drillers to get permits and have a rig available to drill for them, McVay said. She said an additional 365 households are going through the approval process.

The backlog stems from the big workload and the limited number of licensed well-drilling crews, McVay said.

In recent months, household wells have been drying up faster than new wells have been drilled. But those managing the program say the pace of well-drilling has been accelerating. And state officials say they are taking steps to expedite funding for solutions.

These problems have been around for a long time, and they're going to take a while to address. But we're definitely working as expeditiously as we can, said Joe Karkoski, deputy director of the State Water Boards financial assistance division.

The list of needed projects goes beyond wells that have dried up and includes water systems that draw from groundwater contaminated with nitrate, arsenic and other hazardous pollutants.

The State Water Resources Control Board says 389 public water systems are failing, 513 water systems are at risk, and an estimated 81,000 domestic wells are at risk of failing or having water-quality problems.

Many residents in the community of Tombstone Territory in Fresno County have run out of water and are depending on household tanks and state-funded deliveries of water by truck. (Gary Coronado/Los Angeles Times)

Some water advocates argue that solutions are coming far too slowly for people living with dry wells and that addressing the backlog would take many years at the current pace of well-drilling.

The rate at which we're getting wells replaced is just woefully inadequate, said Kyle Jones, policy and legal director for the Community Water Center.

Jones said state officials should intervene to mobilize the well-drilling industry to prioritize residents with dry wells. As the situation stands, he said, drilling companies are responding to market demands by working on agricultural wells.

Jones suggested the state could put a moratorium on new agricultural wells until the backlog is addressed, or could hire well drillers on a retainer contract to fast-track projects for homeowners.

We really need the governor to come in here and implement a solution, Jones said.





This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  Ralph Paul Yarl, the Black teenager who was shot by a homeowner after having rung the wrong doorbell, was motionless and covered in blood when James Lynch found him unconscious.

"I thought he was dead," Lynch said Monday.

No one deserves to lay there like that, Lynch said. He hasnt even begun to live his life yet. He didnt deserve to get shot.

Lynch, 42, had just gotten out of the shower Thursday night and was getting ready for bed when he heard shouting outside. He went over to his kitchen window and saw a boy banging on the door of a nearby home.

"I heard somebody screaming, 'Help, help, I've been shot!'" Lynch said, adding the shouting was out of place for the normally quiet neighborhood.

Lynch, a father of three, said he ran outside, jumped his fence and sprinted through a neighbors yard and across the street to another neighbor's driveway to get to Yarl.

James Lynch, 42, who helped Ralph Yarl after he was shot. (Deon J. Hampton / NBC News)

His face and arms were covered in blood, and it looked as if Yarl had been shot in his head near an eye socket.

Lynch's old Eagle Scout training kicked in when Yarl suddenly came to. Lynch told him, "I'm going to grab your hand really tight." He checked Yarl's wrist for a pulse before he asked him his name and age and where he went to school.

Yarl struggled to respond before he spelled his name. Another neighbor came over with towels to help stem the bleeding, and she and Lynch waited with Yarl until paramedics arrived.

Yarl, 16, had been trying to pick up his 11-year-old twin brothers from a friends home but had gone to the wrong street and house. His familys attorneys, Lee Merritt and Ben Crump, said he was shot twice after he rang the doorbell.

Ralph Yarl. (via Ben Crump Law)

A warrant was issued for Andrew Lester, an 85-year-old white man, on charges of first-degree assault and armed criminal action, Clay County Prosecuting Attorney Zachary Thompson said Monday.

Merritt said the shot to Yarl's head left him with a critical, traumatic brain injury. He was also shot in the upper arm, the attorneys said.

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Faith Spoonmore, his aunt, said on a fundraising page that Yarl had gone to at least three homes before he received help.

Yarl, a student at Staley High School, loves science, takes mostly college-level courses and plays in the school band, according to North Kansas City Schools Superintendent Dan Clemens.

Protests erupted over the weekend in Kansas City, with some people saying Yarls race played a role in the situation.

Reflecting on Thursday night, Lynch said he doesnt consider himself a hero.

I didnt do anything but hold a kids hand so he wouldnt feel alone. He had just gotten shot twice; he had a hole in the side of his head, Lynch said. That kid is tougher than I am.

Deon J. Hampton reported from Kansas City, Missouri. Doha Madani reported from New York City.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman, Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson and Office of Violence Prevention Director Ashanti Hamilton are present during the press conference discussing Milwaukees 2023 first quarter crime numbers Tuesday, April 18, 2023, at the Police Administration Building in Milwaukee.

Three months into the new year, Milwaukee is still experiencing elevated levels of gun violence, but its clearance rate for homicides has risen back to pre-pandemic levels for the time being.

The data sample is small and does not represent a time of year when crime activity generally peaks  usually in the warmest months  but the clearance rate is among several other encouraging developments during the first quarter of the year.

Mayor Cavalier Johnson and Police Chief Jeffrey Norman discussed the figures at a press event Tuesday, where they also acknowledged several worrying trends.

Im not satisfied with where we are, with the levels of crime and violence in the city, but the crime numbers tell us that we are indeed though headed in the right direction, Johnson said.

Here are three takeaways from the press event:

Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman answers questions in regards to homicides, auto thefts, thefts and other crimes during the press conference revealing Milwaukee's 2023 first quarter crime numbers Tuesday, April 18, 2023, at the Police Administration Building in Milwaukee.

Homicide investigators get a breather, catch up on clearance rate

Since the arrival of the pandemic in 2020, Milwaukee has endured three years of record-breaking homicides, and the sheer volume cases made it difficult for investigators to keep up.

The Milwaukee Police Department typically cleared around 75% of its homicide cases a year. Since 2020, that number has fallen to just above 50% each year.

But in 2023, that figure rests at 74% through March. Norman indicated thats partly a result of a downturn in homicides so far this year  39 compared to 50 at the same time in 2022  allowing investigators more time to follow up on cases.

What weve been seeing these past couple years is that you had constant issues or incidents, he said.

Norman praised the departments homicide unit, but he and Johnson also gave credit to the work of other community organizations who are working on outreach efforts and increasing access to stable housing.

Nonfatal shootings, however, have continued to worsen, rising 11% since 2022. Norman and Johnson attributed that to the easy access of firearms and poor conflict resolution skills. Johnson again called on state and federal lawmakers to take action.

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"They should do their jobs as it relates to access to firearm," Johnson said.

Clearance rates are calculated by the number of homicides in a given year divided by the number of cases cleared that year, no matter what year the homicide actually occurred in.

To clear a case, an individual must be arrested, charged and turned over for prosecution, according to the FBIs crime reporting standards. Cases can also be cleared by exceptional means. For example, when a suspect has been identified but cannot be arrested because they cannot be located or have already died.

Mayor Cavalier Johnson answers questions during the press conference addressing Milwaukee's 2023 first quarter crime numbers Tuesday, April 18, 2023, at the Police Administration Building in Milwaukee.

Car thefts are down, but carjackings are up

Milwaukee has also experienced a car theft epidemic  mostly targeting Kia and Hyundai models  since late 2020. Reports more than doubled in 2021, but dropped 23% the following year.

The decline has continued so far in 2023, with car thefts down another 34%. Police have announced a range of efforts to minimize thefts in recent years, including the use of bait cars and giving away steering wheel locks. But Norman again credited the work of organizations and programs such as Running Rebels and Camp Rise for engaging with youth and steering them away from such behavior.

I will never say the Milwaukee Police Department is the only reason why we see any type of trend, he said. All I know is there is a lot of effort being put forth by all respective entities.

At the same time, however, carjackings have risen 40% so far this year despite remaining flat from at least 2019 to 2022. Car thefts still occur at more than 13 times the rate of carjackings, but Norman expressed concern over the perpetrators behind them.

He said police are encountering a number of carjacking suspects who had no prior criminal history, when typically its the kind of act someone commits after a gradual series of events.

Thats concerning, he said.

Car crashes are also down

Johnson and Norman did not discuss it at length, but the data released Tuesday also showed an 11% drop in car crashes and a 19% drop in hit-and-run crashes.

The city has totaled 21 traffic fatalities through Sunday, compared to 15 in 2022, according to a separate police data set. The same set showed a 15% drop in crashes that involved injuries.

The city has turned a focus onto better safer street design to discourage reckless driving. In March, the city announced 50 traffic-calming projects in 2023.

Contact Elliot Hughes at elliot.hughes@jrn.com or 414-704-8958. Follow him on Twitter @elliothughes12.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Dip in homicides allows Milwaukee police to catch up on clearance rate
In the whiskey business, the distiller usually gets the credit for exceptional spirits. But behind the scenes in whiskey production, the blender is the gatekeeper of quality control.

"The blender is the one person who's responsible (for whiskey) at every step," said Eboni Major, the Birmingham-based former whiskey blender for Bulleit Bourbon.

A mind for chemistry and a passion for food led Major to pursue a bachelor's degree in food science and technology, which led to a 2015 internship at Bulleit. She eventually became the bourbon maker's first Black blender.

Major is also widely considered to be the first Black woman to work as a whiskey blender at a major distillery, though there is some competition for the title.

After tension erupted over whether Major was being fairly compensated at the Kentucky-based Bulleit, she stepped into her own as a freelance industry expert who lends her talents to other distilleries.

She returned to her home city of Birmingham, Alabama, where she's since launched a limited-edition collaborative release with Dread River Distillery.

Master blender Eboni Major poses for a portrait at Corsair Distillery on Feb. 22, 2023, in Ashland City, Tenn. Major consults with different distillers, including Corsair, to help their whiskey making process.

Birmingham has come a long way since its place at the epicenter of America's racial tensions in the 1960s. As of the most recent census data, nearly 70% of the Alabama city's population is Black. Meanwhile, Shelbyville, Kentucky, where Major moved when she accepted a position with Bulleit, is 73% white.

"I don't want to make it about race at all, but Kentucky was just very different for me," Major said. "I was walking into situations, arenas or environments where I was the only Black person. It was like, this is my reality."

She returned home to a city with a palpable collaborative spirit.

"Downtown Birmingham looks completely different from when I was coming up," Major said. "Right now, everybody's eager. Empowered for sure. When you look around the city, I feel like people see what's possible and can see beyond the now and what has been."

Community in whiskey

In Kentucky, Major found a community in the whiskey industry, and her connections helped launch her as a prominent face of Bulleit. But as her role grew, she said, her pay did not. That remained a sticking point even after Bulleit released the Major-created limited-edition Blenders Select in 2020.

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"From my perspective, I was in a job where I was fighting to get equal pay and equal opportunity while I was put on a platform to help sell (whiskey)," she said.

As Major simultaneously acted as blender and de facto brand ambassador, her pay, she said, lingered far below industry standards. In 2022, she filed a lawsuit against Diageo, the company that owns Bulleit, alleging unlawful discrimination and disparate treatment based on her race. That lawsuit is currently in arbitration.

Eboni Major at the Corsair Distillery in Ashland City, Tenn. Major says her long-term goal is to open a whiskey center highlighting small, innovative distilleries. "Where I'm just like an old lady with her cats, but an old girl with her barrels," she said.

By and large, Major has since forged her own path in the whiskey industry, partnering with like-minded distillers. She wants to believe that women, particularly women of color, are making inroads in an industry long dominated by white men.

"It's definitely rooted in nepotism, which is harmful and makes it harder for women and people of color to come in, even when they are educated and experienced," she said. "When you hire from within, it makes it difficult for people to learn, and it also keeps the industry stagnant."

That's particularly the case in Southern whiskey production, she said. She used Nearest Green, the Black man who taught Jack Daniel how to make whiskey nearly 150 years ago, as an example. Green's contributions to Tennessee whiskey have only in the past few years been thrust into the spotlight.

"You know, we're doing the work but do you know about it?" she said. "And now that you know about it, especially when it comes to women and Black women, it's just making sure it's equitable for everybody."

Carving a path forward with whiskey

Major left Bulleit in 2020, returning to a Birmingham much changed from when her mother worked downtown at the public library. The city was not the place to be after dark when Major was a child, she said. Now, the downtown business district thrives at night.

"Birmingham, in my opinion, is a city that does really well with small businesses, especially in the downtown area," Major said. "We do our best to support each other, and I think that's why these businesses keep thriving."

Since leaving Kentucky, Major has expanded her reach, acting as a consultant for regional distilleries, including in Nashville, Tennessee, where she's lent her expertise to Corsair Distillery.

Corsair owner and distiller Darek Bell called Major the "whiskey whisperer."

"She knows what were needing and how to keep everything consistent and of the utmost quality," he said.

Professional, quality-minded blenders like Major are part of the secret to good whiskey, he said.

"Her ability to taste and analyze different barrels, her attention to detail, and her commitment to producing a consistently high-quality product are what make her an invaluable member of our organization," he said. "She's the gatekeeper of quality control, ensuring that every bottle of our bourbon meets our high standards."

Though Major has created her own label under which she wants to blend and produce whiskey, Major Whiskey, she's reluctant to build her own brick-and-mortar distillery. Instead, her path forward is collaborating with other distilleries while dreaming of building her own blending lab.

"We've made good advances with carbon-neutral distilleries, but a distillery is just not in my path," she said. "I want to be able to highlight whiskies from other places and put them in bottles. That's really my dream, and my goal is to have a place to teach people how to blend whiskey."

Her long-term goal is a whiskey "innovation center," a place to highlight small, innovative distilleries, some in places not usually known for whiskey production, including California.

"Where I'm just like an old lady with her cats, but an old girl with her barrels," she said. "Just imagine me mixing, but allowing people to see what I do and taste what I'm working on."

Next for Major: a potential collaboration on a U.S. cognac.

"I believe that putting my efforts and energies there allows me to expand my knowledge of food science and distillation," she said. "But I'm still committed to doing these unique and smaller footprint whiskey blends."

She'll remain part of a swiftly changing Birmingham and hopes to becomes a stakeholder there.

"When I go down to my local coffee shop, I drive around and look at the empty buildings," she said. "I have ideas that will become more of a reality because of the support of this community."

If you go to Birmingham

Birmingham has plenty to offer. Here are just a few of our favorites.

Eat:

Automatic Seafood and Oysters. This Lakeview district restaurant is fun, absolutely gorgeous and perfect if you love a good raw bar. Absolutely do not skip the fried fish collar. Wander across the street to Birmingham's outpost of Asheville-based Hi-Wire Brewing for an after-dinner beer. 2824 Fifth Ave. S.

Pizza Grace. A semifinalist for the 2023 James Beard Award, this craft pizzeria is dedicated to local producers and quite simply makes a great pie. 2212 Morris Ave., Suite 105

El Barrio. This multi-regional Mexican restaurant features Gulf seafood, seasonal produce, a delicious brunch and some killer margaritas. 2211 Second Ave. N.

Drink:

Juniper. This cozy and elegant cocktail bar in Forest Park has a courtyard, an indoor swing, and a gorgeous menu of adaptable gin and tonics. 3811 Clairmont Ave. S.

Cayo Coco. This Cuban-inspired bar has a moody, elegant interior and bright classic tropical cocktails, including real-deal daiquiris and The Gun Club Punch, adapted from the Trader Vics Bartenders Guide. 2015 First Ave. N., unit A.

Dread River Distilling Company. This urban distillery specializes in small batches of whiskey, gin and rum. Take a distillery tour, sip cocktails in the high-ceilinged barroom or take a cocktail class. 2400 Seventh Ave. S.

Stay:

The Kelly Birmingham, Tapestry Collection by Hilton. This smart, fun hotel in the heart of the city has an excellent staff and fun bar to come back to after your night on the town. 2027 First Ave. N.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Pioneering Black whiskey blender Eboni Major expands her reach
 Flash

Wang Yi (C), a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the CPC Central Committee, attends a closing meeting of the talks between the Saudi delegation led by Musaad bin Mohammed Al-Aiban (L), Saudi Arabia's Minister of State, Member of the Council of Ministers and National Security Advisor, and Iranian delegation led by Admiral Ali Shamkhani (R), Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council of Iran, in Beijing, capital of China, March 10, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]

An Iranian diplomat said that based on the Tehran-Riyadh agreement on the normalization of bilateral ties, embassies are expected to reopen in the two countries by May 9.

Alireza Enayati, a director general of the Iranian Foreign Ministry, made the remarks in an interview published on Monday with the official news agency IRNA, commenting on steps taken by the two countries to reopen their diplomatic missions.

He noted that to this end, Iran has been hosting a technical team from Saudi Arabia since April 8, saying after visiting the premises of the country's embassy in Tehran, the Saudi delegation, on Friday, arrived in Mashhad to visit the building of Saudi Arabia's consulate general in the northeastern Iranian city.

Enayati added another Saudi delegation is also scheduled to visit Iran to discuss the reopening of the diplomatic missions.

He said, within the same framework, Iran on Wednesday sent two delegations to Saudi Arabia, of which one has been stationed in Riyadh to prepare for the reopening of the Iranian embassy and the other in Jeddah to reactivate the country's consulate general and representative office to the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

Enayati noted that Iran has started its activities of repairing the buildings of its embassy and consulate general in Saudi Arabia to prepare for reopening.

Iran and Saudi Arabia reached a deal in China on March 10 to resume diplomatic relations and reopen embassies and missions in the two countries within two months.

In a meeting in Beijing on April 6, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and his Saudi counterpart Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud signed a joint statement announcing the practical resumption of official diplomatic relations.

Saudi Arabia cut diplomatic ties with Iran in 2016 in response to the attacks on Saudi diplomatic missions in Iran after the kingdom executed a Shiite cleric.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and Disneyland in Anaheim, California. Getty Images

Gov. Ron DeSantis said that he could build a prison next to Florida's Walt Disney World Resort.

Shortly after, Disney publicized Disneyland's first official LGBTQ event for Pride Month.

DeSantis and Disney have been publicly feuding, including over Florida's "Don't Say Gay" law.

Disney publicized its first LGBTQ event at Disneyland shortly after Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said during a press conference that he could build a state prison next to Orlando's Walt Disney World Resort.

Disney tweeted on Monday afternoon that "Disneyland After Dark: Pride Nite" would be coming to Disneyland in Anaheim, California, during Pride Month.

The two-night event, which will be held on June 13 and 15 inside the amusement park, will celebrate the LGBTQ communities and allies, Disneyland said in a blog.

The move was seemingly the latest development in a public spat between Disney and DeSantis, which began in early 2022 when Disney said it would work to repeal Florida's Parental Rights in Education Act, which critics have dubbed the "Don't Say Gay" law.

DeSantis has strongly defended the controversial legislation  which limits classroom instruction about gender identity and sexual orientation  and has pushed his administration to expand the law to all grades.

DeSantis said in March that Disney had "crossed the line" when it called for the repeal of the law.

This latest event was first announced by Disneyland on its blog last Thursday, but Disney's decision to publicize it on the company's official Twitter account came just hours after DeSantis made a threat about building a prison near the Florida amusement park during a press conference on Monday.

Speaking to reporters in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, DeSantis discussed how the land surrounding Disney's Florida amusement park, which is not owned by the company, could be developed in the future.

The governor, smiling, said that "another state prison" could be a good use of the land.

Story continues

The governor also said that a bill would be introduced in the state legislature next week to impose new inspection regulations on the Disney company.

DeSantis has been trying to remove a decades-old provision that gives Disney special self-governing status, meaning that it has its own police and fire departments, as well as planning powers.

Disney CEO Bob Iger said the plan was "anti-business" and "anti-Florida" in a shareholder call earlier this month.

Despite this latest move, Iger told Time last week that he wants to end the feud with DeSantis by sitting down and talking it out.

Disney and DeSantis did not immediately respond to requests for comment from Insider.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Congratulations to Tim Hutchins, Richard Heaton, David Daugherty and other local officials who are taking a brave public stance against our latest corporate villains: the bourbon industry.

As reported by local outlets and our own Janet Patton, leaders in Nelson, Marion and Bullitt counties are pulling the plug on further warehouse development to offset the eventual removal of the barrel tax that recently made it through the legislature. HB 5 would take effect starting in January 2026, with the bill reaching 100% tax exemption by 2043.

That barrel tax supports schools and local governments that pay for the roads, and other infrastructure that serves the numerous bourbon distilleries and warehouses in a cluster of counties. Most important are the fire departments that have to be ready if and when one of these massive warehouses filled with alcohol goes up in flames  incidents weve seen before.

The bourbon industry is in a record expansion of distilleries, warehouses and profits; the international companies that own these labels dont care about local communities, they just want more money for shareholders. Legislators voted to appease Big Bourbon even though numerous local officials begged them not to take away the support that helps them support the industry.

The bill would hold the industry responsible for payments to school districts, but its reduced based on increasing SEEK payments, so eventually the industrys share would phase out.

This latest development is interesting because as economists like Jason Bailey have noted, Kentucky leaders normally have a much more subservient attitude toward its big industries. When is the last time you saw a judge in a coal county tell a company they couldnt expand a mine or a mayor in Fayette or Woodford tell a horse person much of anything?

But people like Hutchins know that for the bourbon industry, the brand is Kentucky. Theyve built their warehouses and their distilleries and their bourbon tours and they are here to stay. The state has a much stronger negotiating position than it does with an auto company that could locate anywhere.

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Hutchins told me that industry officials are now saying the building moratorium Nelson County put in place last week is some kind of revenge or retribution for the barrel tax vote. But hes been mad for almost a decade, when Nelson County implemented a rule that said if a distillery had a 100-acre parcel, they could do anything they wished without planning or zoning authorization.

Thats the end game Im trying to accomplish  that distilleries have to go through planning and zoning and that means citizens have a say in whats going on, Hutchins said. I said in my campaign I wanted to revisit zoning and planning and all the ordinances in the county to make them simpler and easier to understand.

And by the way, Hutchins has seen remarks from disgruntled bourbon execs. But hes received hundreds of calls, texts and messages in support of his stance (along with the constant complaints about whiskey fungus).

Last August, I wrote about the threat of the taxs demise, urging lawmakers to stop their historic submission to big industries like coal, horses or bourbon to recognize the mutual good that could be obtained by working together. The extended honeymoon that Kentucky and bourbon have experienced could deepen into a beautiful, mutually beneficial relationship.

Too often in dealing with our industries, Kentuckys leaders seem to take the position of hostage negotiators, rather than equal partners, I wrote. What if instead they said to bourbon, we need you, you need us, we both know youre not going anywhere. We both need steady growth, but we dont need for Kentucky to suffer so you make even more profits for international stakeholders ... Healthy relationships are based on trust and mutual understanding, not threats and subterfuge. We love Kentucky bourbon and we want it to love us back.

When I mentioned this to Hutchins, he snorted. Now its more like a divorce.

Theres still time for marriage counseling. But it will require legislators who listen more to local county leaders than bourbon industry donations that reliably come their way every year.
A vendor sits next to his shop as he waits for customers in Djibouti

Djibouti's sparse media environment is dominated by the state.

There are no private TV or radio stations and the government owns the main newspaper and the national broadcaster Radiodiffusion-Television de Djibouti (RTD).

"The repressive [judicial] arsenal deployed against journalists means they live in fear," says media watchdog Reporters Without Borders (RSF). It says the only Djibouti-based media are used for government propaganda.

A pro-opposition outlet, La Voix de Djibouti, operates online from Belgium.

Djibouti hosts a powerful mediumwave (AM) transmitter which broadcasts Voice of America programmes in English, French and Somali to East Africa. Local FM relays carry the BBC (99.2) and American and French external broadcasters.

There were 548,000 internet users by December 2021, comprising 54% of the population (Internetworldstats.com).

The authorities keep a close eye on opposition websites, often blocking access to them inside Djibouti.

Press

La Nation - government-owned daily

Djibouti Post - English-language weekly published by La Nation

Al-Qarn - government-owned Arabic weekly

Radio

Radio Djibouti - operated by RTD; three networks broadcast in Afar, Arabic, French and Somali

Television

Radio Television Djibouti - government broadcaster

News agency/internet
The Chicago skyline at night. Beata Zawrzel/NurPhoto via Getty Images

The Democrats will head to the Midwest to rubber stamp their presidential nominee. The Democratic National Committee announced that the 2024 Democratic National Convention will take place in Chicago, where President Biden is expected to be officially nominated for a second term  assuming he officially decides to run again.

This will mark the first time the Democratic convention heads to the Windy City since 1996. Given the current fractious state of politics, some are worried that 2024 could be a repeat not of 1996, but the infamous 1968 Chicago convention, which, under similar political tensions, "was a catastrophe that hardly needs explaining  masses of shaggy-haired protesters battling police," the Chicago Sun-Times writes.

The 1996 convention, on the other hand, is remembered much more favorably. That year, there were "events held across the city as Chicago used the convention to showcase its beauty and diversity," and it is often looked at as "a literal and figurative turning of the page from the 1968 Democratic National Convention," WGN reports.

There are plenty of reasons the Democratic Party chose Chicago, The New York Times notes, such as the city being "a liberal place that embraces abortion rights, LGBTQ rights, and labor and civil rights  and that Illinois reflected the diversity of the nation." Will the upcoming convention help draw in Midwestern voters? Or will the sharpened political landscape create a scene akin to 1968?

'No other city comes close'

Chicago being selected to host the DNC "reawakens something that feels like hope," the editorial board of the Chicago Tribune opines. While it may be unsurprising that a Chicago-based newspaper would back the choice, the Tribune writes that the city was likely granted the convention because "no other city comes close to pulling off the number of national political conventions that Chicago has hosted for both parties."

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Chicago is still a significant union town, the Tribune adds, whereas its main convention competitor, Atlanta, is located in "a 'right-to-work' state where workers are not required to join a union as a condition of employment." This bodes well for Chicago given Biden's favorability towards unions, pledging to be the "most pro-union president leading the most pro-union administration in American history." Bureau of Labor Statistics reports show that Illinois had an estimated 735,000 union members in 2022, compared to Georgia's 200,000, and this may have played towards the DNC's choice.

The geographic location of Chicago also works well for the Democrats. "Well because, you know, we're in the Midwest here  and it's undoubtedly Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota  those seats are going to be in play," political strategist Pete Giangreco tells CBS News. North Central College political science professor Stephen Maynard Caliendo adds that while the location of a convention often doesn't swing voters one way or another, the working-class nature of Chicago is "going to be an important part of the message for the Democrats next year."

'Jettisoning a chance to gain a bigger foothold'

This affinity for Chicago, however, was not shared by all, partially because the South will likely be a key demographic area in the 2024 election. By foregoing Georgia in favor of Illinois, which is already a decisively blue state, "national Democrats are also jettisoning a chance to gain a bigger foothold in a pivotal battleground state that both parties see as key to winning in 2024," Greg Bluestein and Riley Bunch write for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

"Good for Chicago, but I think the activity and action in the general election of 2024 is going to be right here," Bobby Kahn, the former head of the Georgia Democratic Party, tells the Constitution, adding that his state "is still very much in the center of politics and presidential politics in particular." City Councilman Amir Farokhi agreed, and tells the outlet, "Georgia and the South are the epicenter for the present and future growth of the Democratic Party."

Chicago is also a city grappling with high crime rates, and this could prove problematic, as Chicago "has been at the center of the [Democrat's] dilemma on the issue of crime," Nicole Gaudiano writes for Business Insider. Following the announcement, Gaudiano adds, Republicans "once again hit House Democrats for overwhelmingly opposing a GOP effort to strike down changes to the District of Columbia's criminal code that they considered more lenient." Crime played a factor in the city's recent mayoral elections, and the rising tensions could lead to more problems in 2024.

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Holly Richardson works at the state Capitol in Salt Lake City on March 2, 2011. | Laura Seitz, Deseret News

I was running to be the Republican legislative district chair in my area some years ago and one of the delegates who would be voting said to me that he would vote for me, but he had a question: How do you get your husband to let you do this? I responded with There is no let. I dont have to ask permission from my husband.

Many times, Ive been asked who is taking care of your children, when actively involved in politics. None of my male colleagues or male opponents were ever asked that question. I even once heard another woman say they loved their children too much to be involved in politics. My response is that I love mine too much not to be.

I know many of my female friends, especially those active in politics, have heard similar comments, so when I read the five policy papers published by the Utah Women and Leadership Project, I was not surprised to see how pervasive these comments are. That doesnt mean its not disheartening.

During May and June in 2020, the Utah Women and Leadership Project began surveying Utah women about their experiences with messages that reinforce gender roles and stereotypes, demean women as a gender group, and sexually objectify women. Hundreds of women responded, leaving 1,750 examples of sexist comments that had been made to them. One respondent left a comment at the end of the survey that she could have added hundreds more examples. Many of the comments that were shared were much more explicit and vulgar than those shared in the series of five reports.

Overall, most of the sexist comments were made by men (84.6%), in the workplace (58.2%), by someone who had a position of authority or influence over the person. The goal in publishing these reports, say the authors, is to educate people on the numerous ways that language and related behaviors can demean and disempower women, and give women tools for confronting such behavior.

Related

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Researchers were able to sort the comments into four broad categories: inequity and bias, objectification, stereotypes and undervaluing women. A fifth category, direct aggression, contains elements of the other four, but some distinct characteristics as well.

The survey also asked respondents how they reacted when hearing these comments. There were five general reactions. One was to do or say nothing. A second was to have a direct response to the comments. A third was to have an emotional response, including feeling hurt, disappointed or angry. A fourth was to react indirectly by laughing it off or changing the subject and the fifth was the internal dialogue respondents had with themselves afterward.

Heres a sample of the comments shared across five policy briefs:

Inequity and bias

A manager said, I dont know how you handle so many children plus your job!! No one would say this to a man, plus then he viewed me as unable to take on leadership roles.

At a formal function, all of the male professors in the room were introduced as Dr., but the female professors were introduced by their first names.

When I asked for a raise commensurate with a male colleagues salary, I was told that because I didnt have children and wasnt the head of household, I didnt need to make as much money as he did.

(I was) trying to get a candidate ... to understand what needed to be done. ... He repeatedly checked with men before taking my advice.

Objectification

The first time we met, he said, What a surprise. I thought youd look a lot older than you do. Youve still got a good 10 years of sex kitten left in you!

Upon meeting for the first time, a man said, My wife is here somewhere. She used to model, but she was too weak to get back into shape for me after the kids were born.

He looked at me and said, You? But youre a cute, little blonde thing. You cant be a mayor!

My husbands co-worker said, You know your wife is going to have an affair, as a response to my being in MBA school.

Stereotypes

He said that women were too irrational and emotional to be good legislators and make the difficult decisions that needed to be made.

A teacher of a course on marriage said that he didnt help with housework because he knew how much satisfaction doing housework gave his wife.

A male boss said, If you become pregnant, youll be asked to resign. If you get married while employed here and dont get pregnant after a certain amount of time, well meet to determine if this job is stopping you from getting pregnant.

In a group setting, with multiple external influencers, he said, Shes pregnant so you cant trust that she cares about us or her children. Women should be in the home taking care of children, and any woman who chooses to work doesnt care about her kids.

Undervaluing women

I work on thoughtful, thorough, comprehensive policy analysis. The policy area is incredibly nuanced and complicated. A relative in my family describes what I do as, You have some opinions from your heart.

My boss makes comments such as, I cant believe your husband lets you have such a demanding job, and What does your husband think of this?

I was arguing a case before the Utah Court of Appeals when opposing counsel was trying to assert why my argument was incorrect (normal for lawyers) and kept referring to me as little missy.

During grad school, I had multiple male classmates say I got in because I was a girl or that I wasnt as qualified as they were because the standards were lower or even that I was taking away a spot in the program from a man who needed to support a family.

Lead researchers Robbyn Scribner, April Townsend and Susan Madsen conclude their five-part series with these recommendations: First, prepare. Have a go-to phrase you can use on the spot, such as What makes you say that? or Can you explain what you meant by that?

Second, take action. When you hear offensive comments or inappropriate jokes, respond with something like Thats not funny, or Ouch, or Thats inappropriate.

Third, call out the behavior, whether that behavior is always asking the woman on the team to take notes or remember birthdays, interrupting women while theyre speaking or taking credit for the ideas women on their team have shared.

Their final thought is this: Speaking up against sexism can be a powerful force for reducing gender inequity. ... By raising awareness of the widespread occurrence and damaging effects of sexist language, comments, beliefs, and behaviors, we hope to reduce the frequency of sexism in our homes, neighborhoods, communities, and the state as a whole.

Holly Richardson is the editor of Utah Policy, a former lawmaker and holds a doctorate in political science from the University of Utah.
Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas and five other city council candidates crushed their opponents in the recent city primary by garnering anywhere from 61% to 85% of the votes cast in their races.

But because the city charter says that the top two vote-getters move on to the general election, the landslide victories by Lucas and the other five were meaningless. To win office, they must again square off against their first runner-up at the general election in June.

The same, in others words, as candidates who placed first and second but did not get a majority of the votes in five contests where three or more people were running.

Lucas thinks thats ridiculous and wants the rules changed for future elections so that winning more than half of the votes in the primary would be enough to skip the general election. Of the 25 candidates for mayor or council who got a majority in the primary vote over the last three election cycles, all went on to win the general election.

Thats one of several changes in the electoral process and city governance that the mayor has asked the newly appointed charter review commission to study in the coming months.

The commission will take up his proposals and some of their own when the 10-member panel that Lucas appointed begins work Tuesday. The group got a preview at its organizational meeting last week.

Kansas City mayors are required to form charter review commissions at least once every 10 years so that city government can see if reforms are in order.

When the charter was last reviewed, in 2013, that commission suggested the mayor be given the right to hire and fire the city manager without council approval. It also recommended voters elect all 12 regular council members by district, rather than half of them citywide, to improve racial and ethic diversity.

But a council majority rejected both proposals and refused to put them on the ballot. However, the council did sign off on a charter commission proposal to adjust the election dates by a couple of months, which voters approved. That change has new city councils starting work on Aug. 1 every four years.

Story continues

Lucas is once again proposing to change the dates of city elections, to August for the primary and November for the general elections, which are the months when county, state and federal elections are held in even-numbered years.

Voter turnout for city elections is abysmal. The Kansas City Election Board said just under 14% of registered voters cast ballots in this months election.

Kansas saw its turnout increase for municipal and school board elections by switching them from the spring to the August-November schedule in odd-numbered years. Still, fewer than one in four voters participate.

Lucas believes turnout would be even better if Kansas City held its election in even-numbered years, citing voter fatigue from being called upon to cast ballots in multiple elections, were city elections held in odd-numbered years.

Higher participation in elections would also make the threshold higher for putting initiative petitions on the ballot or mounting recall campaigns against council members, as ballot access is tied to turnout.

Recall petitions in Kansas City require signatures equal to 20% of the votes cast in the previous mayoral election. Referendum petitions require signatures equal to 10% of the mayoral vote.

Recall petitions were filed against Lucas and six other council members in 2020 and 2021 but the number of signatures fell short.

Transitioning to elections in even-numbered years might mean lengthening the terms by more than a year for those who will be elected in June to the council.

In addition to election reforms, Lucas is also proposing ways to streamline government. One suggestion would strip the parks and recreation board of what little autonomy it now has to manage that department and hire the director.

Instead, the parks board would be an advisory body like other city boards appointed by the mayor and the parks director would report to the city manager rather than the parks board.

A similar proposal was studied and rejected two decades ago. Former parks board chairwoman Anita Gorman said she is opposed to any change that would undermine the boards powers.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) will seek a 24-year prison sentence for a Jan 6. rioter convicted of assaulting police officers, which if imposed would be the longest term of any case related to the 2021 attack at the Capitol.

In a sentencing memo submitted on Monday, federal prosecutors argued Peter Schwartz had a lengthy criminal record before the events on Jan 6., where he and others assaulted groups of officers.

Schwartz, a Uniontown, Pennsylvania native, was convicted last December of several charges for his role in the Capitol insurrection, including four counts of felony assaulting, resisting, or impeding law enforcement officers using a dangerous weapon.

The DOJ said that Schwartz  who traveled to Washington with his then-wife, Shelley Stallings  stole chemical munitions, including pepper spray, that had been left behind by the fleeing officers and used that pepper spray as a weapon to attack those same officers as they desperately tried to escape the growing and increasingly violent mob.

Federal prosecutors also alleged Schwartz assaulted several groups of police officers during the riot and did not back down, adding he joined the larger mob inside of the tunnel in attempting to push through the police line and into the Capitol Building.

By Schwartzs own admission, he viewed himself as being at war that day, stating in a Facebook post on January 7, 2021, What happened yesterday was the opening of a war. I was there and whether people will acknowledge it or not we are now at war, the DOJs memo reads.

Prosecutors recommended a sentence of 294 months for the 49-year-old Schwartz, which it noted was at the midpoint of sentencing guidelines for his crimes.

Schwartzs legal team recommended their client should serve a sentence of 54 months in prison, arguing Schwartz did not come prepared to incite violence, attack the Capitol Building or any officers that day  none of his actions on January 6th were planned in anticipation of his travels.

Story continues

Schwartzs legal team added in their memo that their client knew next to nothing about the 2020 election and listened to sources of information that were clearly false. Mr. Schwartz has learned valuable life lessons from this incident, and he will never repeat the actions that bring him before the Court in this case.

Schwartzs sentencing hearing is expected to happen next month, according to CBS News.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
people walking in street during the daytime - Tourism slows down due to Dominican Republic Migration Alert

According to Homero Figueroa, spokesman for the Presidency of the Dominican Republic, Roberto Alvarez, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, stated that the migratory alert issued by the United States last November has resulted in a significant decrease in tourism. At least 35,000 fewer tourists have visited in recent months due to the Dominican Republic migration alert.

This update came after a meeting between Alvarez, U.S. Undersecretary Wendy Sherman, and President Luis Abinader at the National Palace in the Dominican Republic.

Photo Credit: Ruddy Corporan

RELATED: Tourist Deaths Taking A Toll On Dominican Republic Bookings

U.S. Embassys Migration Alert

The U.S. Embassy had ongoing concerns about the reports of discriminatory treatment of U.S. citizens of color by Dominican authorities. U.S. citizens have reported encounters of delays, detainment, and heightened questioning by immigration officials in the Dominican Republic based on their skin color.

According to the migration alert, Dominican Migration agents have been conducting widespread operations to detain individuals believed to be undocumented migrants, particularly those of Haitian descent.

In some cases, the authorities disregarded the individuals legal status in the Dominican Republic or nationality. These actions may result in increased interaction with Dominican authorities, particularly for darker-skinned U.S. citizens and U.S. citizens of African descent.

There are reports that detainees are being held in overcrowded detention centers under dire conditions. Detainees have no way to challenge their detention or access to food and restroom facilities. Detainees are held, in some cases, for days at a time before being released or deported to Haiti.

US Undersecretary Promises To Help Restore Tourism In DR

Figueroa stated that during the meeting, the U.S. undersecretary promised to work towards restoring the Dominican Republics previous immigration status.

In November 2022, the U.S. Embassy in the Dominican Republic issued a warning to African-American U.S. citizens about the General Directorate of Migrations increased operations aimed at detaining undocumented immigrants, particularly individuals of African-American descent.

Alvarez reportedly emphasized that the Dominican Republic is an open country and receives the highest percentage of North American tourists, according to Diario Libre, a new publication of the Dominican Republic.

RELATED: One Island, But Different Worlds: The History Of Haiti And The Dominican Republic
With Dominion Voting Systems defamation case against Fox News set to begin, my friends at the network, of whom I have none, find themselves in a bind.

Theyre wedged between a known lie they promoted  the preposterous claim that voting machines rigged the 2020 election against former President Donald Trump  and the ever-needy, endlessly noisy former president himself, who wants Fox News to keep lying so he can keep believing he won, and keep fleecing suckers who share that belief.

It seems clear the alleged news organizations best option was to settle the case, admit the network promoted the enormous lie that the 2020 election was stolen and start moving tractor-trailers filled with cash to Dominions headquarters. With the trial expected to start Tuesday in Delaware, that doesn't appear to be happening.

Dominion has Fox News in a vise

Fox News reputation has taken a beating from just the pretrial court documents released to the public, which showed, via electronic messages and quotes from depositions, that executives and hosts sure seemed to know that the claims against Dominion were baseless. The network could prevail in the case, but even if it does, imagine what weeks of trial coverage featuring testimony from blunt instruments like Maria Bartiromo, Tucker Carlson and Sean Hannity might do.

Tucker Carlson hosts a highly rated conservative opinion show on Fox News.

And if Fox News loses, it could be on the hook for the $1.6 billion Dominion is seeking.

Donald Trump desperately wants Fox News to keep lying

So the smart move would be to settle, even if the trial begins without a settlement, right?

Perhaps in a parallel universe that doesnt have a Donald Trump. But in this one, Fox News executives have the former president screaming in their ears via a Truth Social post Monday: IF FOX WOULD FINALLY ADMIT THAT THERE WAS LARGE SCALE CHEATING & IRREGULARITIES IN THE 2020 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION, WHICH WOULD BE A GOOD THING FOR THEM, & FOR AMERICA, THE CASE AGAINST THEM, WHICH SHOULD NOT HAVE EXISTED AT ALL, WOULD BE GREATLY WEAKENED. BACK UP THOSE PATRIOTS AT FOX INSTEAD OF THROWING THEM UNDER THE BUS - & THEY ARE RIGHT! THERE IS SOOO MUCH PROOF, LIKE MASS BALLOT STUFFING CAUGHT ON GOVERNMENT CAMERAS, FBI COLLUDING WITH TWITTER & FACEBOOK, STATE LEGISLATURES NOT USED, etc.

Story continues

Tucker Carlson and former President Donald Trump watch the LIV Golf Invitational at the Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster, N.J., on July 31, 2022. A defamation lawsuit against Fox News is revealing behind-the-scenes opinions by its top figures about Trump, including a Carlson text message that said, I hate him passionately.

This seems like a good time to mention the person who wrote that all-caps string of paranoid nonsense is presently the front-runner for the Republican Partys 2024 presidential nomination. But I digress.

I would feel bad for Fox News if I didn't think they deserve every bit of this

With the Trump threat and the trial beginning, I might feel bad for the folks at Fox News if I didnt hold them responsible for driving millions of Americans down faux-culture-war and conspiracy rabbit holes from which theyll never emerge. (For more on that, ask the uncle you stopped talking to in 2016.)

A screenshot of a 2017 tweet by comedy writer Mark Agee accurately noting that Fox News host Sean Hannity looks like a LEGO figure.

The network has been a mouthpiece for the GOP for so long, the party line leads you straight into Fox News' studios. From fearmongering about former President Barack Obama's religion to fluffing Trump's ego throughout his presidency, the network would need a shot of epinephrine if it were ever exposed to objectivity.

I guess what Im trying to say to Fox News is: Youre facing an impossible situation of your own making and theres no good way out. LOL!

Fox News could, you know, start telling the truth

Even if the trial begins, a settlement is still possible if Dominion's lawyers start mopping the floor with Fox News' lack of credibility.

But at the end of the day, there are no good outcomes for a network that, as long as I can remember, has allowed people to lie on air without consequence. It has been a theater for the maliciously absurd, and it has damaged our society.

I hope Fox News officials have to admit they peddled harmful, rotten, opportunistic bunk. I hope they see the light and start broadcasting the truth, then in turn lose their entire audience.

At the same time, I hope they dont settle and get dragged for eternity by Trump and his MAGA minions, the very monsters they created.

All these options are fine with me and, Id guess, many Americans who have spent years decrying the networks dishonesty.

Any consequence is a welcome consequence. And any one will do.

Follow USA TODAY columnist Rex Huppke on Twitter @RexHuppke and Facebook facebook.com/RexIsAJerk

More from Rex Huppke:

Elon Musk is taking away my blue check mark on Twitter. Who am I if not notable?

Would today's GOP try to ban Mister Rogers for being woke? Probably.

Blaming Silicon Valley Bank collapse on diversity or 'wokeness' gives away Republican game

You can read diverse opinions from our Board of Contributors and other writers on the Opinion front page, on Twitter @usatodayopinion and in our daily Opinion newsletter. To respond to a column, submit a comment to letters@usatoday.com.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: With Fox News, Dominion settlement, I hope the network finds truth
Photo Illustration by Luis G. Rendon/The Daily Beast/Getty

This reporting is one of several scoops featured in this weeks edition of Confider, the newsletter pulling back the curtain on the media. Subscribe here and send your questions, tips, and complaints here.

The Dominion defamation lawsuit against Fox News is by far the biggest media story of the year and a number of star journalists are already looking to cash in.

Michael Wolff was spotted at Delaware Superior Court Monday, according to our spywitness, and has recently signed on as a commentator for Sky News UK and is discussing writing a book about Fox News, Confider has learned.

Wolff, who was asked by the judge to take off his hat in the courtroom, was close to former Fox Chairman Roger Ailes and infamously published off-the-record remarks he made.

Also hearing the ka-ching of the cash register is media man-about-town Brian Stelter, who announced last week he is releasing his second book on Foxs Network of Lies which will be rushed out for a November release.

Like what youre reading? Subscribe to the Confider newsletter here and have The Daily Beast media teams stellar reporting sent straight to your inbox every Monday night.

In the meantime, one of the conservative cable giants thirstiest competitors has all but ignored the case as it moves to trial this week.

Newsmax, the MAGA channel that saw exponential growth in late 2020 by peddling election lies, hasnt mentioned Dominions $1.6 billion suit on-air in nearly a month. And even then, it was merely network CEO Chris Ruddy boasting that unearthed texts and emails showed Fox News executives freaking out over Newsmax poaching pro-Trump viewers following the 2020 election.

Prior to that, the channels scant coverage of the case revolved around Tucker Carlsons behind-the-scenes attacks on Donald Trump, or Ruddys CPAC appearance where he bemoaned that Newsmax was also facing down a billion-dollar lawsuit from the voting software firm.

Several Newsmax staffers told Confider that they hadnt heard of any network plans to cover the Dominion trial, adding that the channel may avoid it altogether because of its own legal troubles with the company. And despite the fact that Newsmax typically takes glee in any bad publicity Fox News receives, sources said that wouldnt be the case with the trial.

Story continues

I mean if we lost that case, Newsmax would be gone, one insider noted.

Newsmax and Wolff did not respond to a request for comment.

Subscribe to the Confider newsletter here and have The Daily Beast media teams stellar reporting sent straight to your inbox every Monday night.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now.

Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now.
 Flash

Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang holds talks with Francisco Bustillo Bonasso, Uruguay's minister of foreign affairs, in Beijing, capital of China, April 18, 2023. (Xinhua/Yin Bogu)

Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang held talks with Francisco Bustillo Bonasso, Uruguay's minister of foreign affairs, in Beijing on Tuesday.



Noting that this year marks the 35th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Uruguay, Qin said bilateral relations between the two countries have entered a stage of mature and stable development.

The two sides should further consolidate political mutual trust and deepen practical cooperation, and continue to firmly support each other on issues concerning each other's core interests and major concerns, and take China-Uruguay strategic partnership to a new level, he added.

Bustillo said Uruguay attaches great importance to its relations with China and looks forward to closer cooperation in the economy, trade and other fields. Uruguay is paying high attention to the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative proposed by China, and considers them to be important contributions to world peace and human development, he added.

Uruguay will continue to play a positive role in promoting Latin America-China relations, Bustillo said.
Dominion Voting Systems abruptly reached a $787.5 million settlement with Fox News on Tuesday in its massive defamation suit against the media giant, the same day the blockbuster trial was expected to begin.

Delaware Superior Court Judge Eric M. Davis thanked the jury of 12 people who were sworn in earlier in the day.

Without you, the parties would not have been able to resolve their situation, he said before telling the lawyers on each side they had also done good work.

The court was about to reconvene from a lunch break when a delay allowed lawyers from both sides to work out a deal.

Fox News hailed the compromise while also admitting that it broadcast falsehoods:

We are pleased to have reached a settlement of our dispute with Dominion Voting Systems. We acknowledge the Courts rulings finding certain claims about Dominion to be false. This settlement reflects FOXs continued commitment to the highest journalistic standards. We are hopeful that our decision to resolve this dispute with Dominion amicably, instead of the acrimony of a divisive trial, allows the country to move forward from these issues.

An attorney for Dominion, Justin Nelson, said the agreement represented accountability.

The truth matters, Nelson told members of the press outside the courthouse.

Lies have consequences. The truth does not know red or blue.



 Dominion Voting Systems lawyer Justin Nelson celebrates Fox News settlement of $787.5 million over its lies about Dominion in the wake of the 2020 election, sparing Fox News from a potentially damaging trial pic.twitter.com/1BC2CHUQ4j  The Recount (@therecount) April 18, 2023

Fox has admitted to telling lies about Dominion that caused enormous damage to my company, our employees, and the customers that we serve, Dominion CEO John Poulos said, adding that his side believes the evidence brought to light through this case underscores the consequences of spreading lies.

Story continues

The decision means the right-wing cable network will avoid a potentially embarrassing trial and protect top brass from publicly testifying. It also serves to inoculate the network from legal repercussions linked to the spread of misinformation during and after the 2020 presidential election  at least for now.

Dominions lawyers said in a court filing they planned to call a number of high-profile figures to the stand, including Fox founder Rupert Murdoch, his son Lachlan, network hosts Tucker Carlson and Sean Hannity, and a number of top executives.

The Wilmington courthouse had been packed to the brim with reporters, according to those at the scene.

The defamation trial was set to begin Monday before it was suddenly delayed Sunday night, prompting reports that Fox News was pushing for a last-minute settlement. Dominion had previously insisted the company would settle only if Fox issued an apology and admitted to spreading lies on the air.

The settlement protects Fox Corp. Chair Rupert Murdoch (above) and others at the network from having to testify.

The settlement protects Fox Corp. Chair Rupert Murdoch (above) and others at the network from having to testify.

The tech company had been seeking $1.6 billion in damages from Fox after nearly two years of back-and-forth proceedings between the judge and lawyers for both sides.

At the center of the suit were baseless claims that Dominions voting machines were somehow rigged to prevent former President Donald Trump from winning a second term in 2020. Dominion said that the airtime Fox gave to these claims led to threats and harassment against the companys employees, and resulted in lost profits.

Prior to the settlement, Davis ruled it was CRYSTAL clear that 20 specific statements broadcast by Fox in the wake of the 2020 election were not true, but left the key question of whether they meet the legal definition of defamation up to a panel of a dozen jurors.

The judge also chided Fox for its handling of documentation in the case, and on Tuesday ordered a special master to look into the matter involving Murdoch, who serves as chair of the broader Fox Corp. Dominion discovered that Murdoch also holds a formal title at Fox News, and the companys lawyers argued this entitled them to more records in the discovery process than Fox handed over.

Media advocates had expected the landmark case  the biggest media lawsuit in decades  to delve into the spread of misinformation and the intricacies of American libel law, questions that have grown exponentially in recent years.

Fox argued its actions were protected under the First Amendment and that its hosts had an absolute right to cover the news.

However, a deluge of bombshells that appeared in court filings in recent months demonstrated how senior executives at the network expressed doubt about Trumps claims of election fraud.

Murdoch himself called it crazy stuff in one email. Texts and emails between other Fox employees were even more blunt.

MIND BLOWINGLY NUTS, wrote Fox Corp. senior vice president Raj Shah, per court documents.

Murdoch said in sworn testimony in the case that several Fox hosts had endorsed false conspiracy theories, but the billionaire media mogul attempted to distance their comments from the network itself.

Fox is still facing a separate, but related, defamation suit from Smartmatic USA Corp. The voting machine company has sued for $2.7 billion over similar claims to those of Dominion.

Related...
Fox News reached a $787.5 million settlement Tuesday in a defamation case brought by voting technology company Dominion that alleged the network knowingly aired false claims linking its machines to a conspiracy to undermine the 2020 US election.

The agreement to end the case avoided what most experts suggested would have been a damaging, high-profile trial for the conservative channel in which owner Rupert Murdoch would have been compelled to testify in open court.

Judge Eric Davis announced the last-minute agreement after the 12 jurors had been selected and the Delaware Superior Court was readying to hear opening arguments.

Fox News said in a statement it was "pleased" to have ended the dispute and added: "We acknowledge the court's rulings finding certain claims about Dominion to be false."

Dominion CEO John Poulos told reporters outside the court that Fox had "admitted to telling lies about Dominion that caused enormous damage to my company, our employees, and our customers. Nothing can ever make up for that."

The proceedings, trailed by the New York Times as "the defamation trial of the century," had been due to test the limits of free speech rights for media in America when wilfully broadcasting misinformation.

Analysts had predicted it could be one of the most consequential libel hearings in US legal history.

The settlement, believed one of the largest in a defamation case ever, means star anchors, such as Tucker Carlson and Sean Hannity will also avoid appearing on the witness stand.

US media reported that the agreement does not require Fox hosts to apologize on-air or admit spreading falsehoods.

Dominion sued Fox News for $1.6 billion in March 2021, alleging it promoted Donald Trump's baseless claim that its machines were used to rig the presidential election he lost to Joe Biden.

Dominion argued that Fox aired the lies despite knowing they were untrue.

It said the network began endorsing Trump's conspiracy because the channel was losing audience to smaller rivals after it became the first television outlet to call the southwestern state of Arizona for Biden, effectively projecting the Democrat would win the presidency.

Story continues

- First Amendment rights -

Fox News denied defamation. It claimed it was only reporting on Trump's allegations, not supporting them, and was protected by free speech rights enshrined in the First Amendment of the US Constitution.

The protection makes it difficult for plaintiffs to win defamation suits in the United States.

In pre-trial hearings, Davis ruled that there was no question Fox aired false statements about Dominion.

For Dominion to have won however, it would have been required to prove that Fox News acted with actual malice -- knowing the information was wrong or having a "reckless disregard" for the truth.

The tough burden has been a bedrock of US media law since 1964.

Dominion released a trove of internal Fox News communications in which some commentators and executives balked at Trump's claims and even expressed a dislike of the ex-president despite praising him on air -- evidence, it said, of malice.

A filing showed that Murdoch described comments by former Trump advisors Rudy Giuliani and Sidney Powell pushing Trump's claim that the election was stolen from him as "really crazy stuff. And damaging."

Murdoch also admitted in a deposition in the case that some on-air hosts had "endorsed" the lie but he denied that the network in its entirety had pushed it, according to court documents filed by Dominion.

Carlson told staff he couldn't wait until he could "ignore Trump most nights," adding: "I hate him passionately."

Fox News accused Dominion of "cherry-picking and taking quotes out of context."

John Culhane, a professor at Delaware Law School at Widener University, said high-profile Fox names defending themselves in court would have been much worse for the network than the settlement.

"The audio would have been replayed a thousand times, forever," he told AFP.

Fox News has overcome several crises in recent years and was the most watched cable news channel for a seventh year in a row last year, well ahead of competitors MSNBC and CNN.

It employs some traditional news reporters, but the majority of its airtime is given to conservative commentators, including in prime-time shows.

"The network has been completely exposed as a partisan propaganda outlet that is willing to do anything for profit and power," said Media Matters advocacy group president Angelo Carusone, reacting to the settlement.

pdh-sw/des
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Donald Trump. Patrick Semansky, File via AP, Evan Vucci/AP

Donald Trump isn't a New Yorker anymore, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez said of the former president.

That's why he got "Florida man" treatment from New Yorkers when he was arraigned in Manhattan.

"He's a citizen of Mar-a-Lago at this point," she said on the Daily Show.

Former President Donald Trump may have made his name in New York City, but Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez says he's a "Florida man" now.

The New York Democrat said her fellow New Yorkers treated Trump "like a Florida man" when he returned to Manhattan this month to face felony charges of falsifying business records.

"He don't belong to us no more, OK?" she said laughing, during a Daily Show interview. "He's not from Queens anymore. He's a citizen of Mar-a-Lago at this point."

Trump's arraignment at a Manhattan courthouse drew pro-Trump rallygoers, like far-right Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, but also protestors, too. Ocasio-Cortez celebrated a report at the time that Greene was heckled, tweeting, "Welcome to NYC!"

During her Daily Show interview, Ocasio-Cortez also wasn't buying Trump's claims that Manhattan courthouse workers cried while booking him, saying, "2024, sir, 2024."

"Maybe George Santos and Marjorie Taylor Greene were, but not me," she said of the MAGA members of Congress. "Ticket back to LaGuardia, baby."

LaGuardia Airport is in her district, she said, and so is Rikers Island prison, where people are treated "far worse for doing far less, and then, you know, it's like this red carpet that gets rolled out."

Trump's indictment follows a probe into 2016 "hush-money" payments to adult film star Stormy Daniels during his presidential campaign.

"I mean, if you hurt one person, you get ten years in prison, but if you hurt millions of people, you get your name on a building," she said.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Natalie Behring/Getty

About a month after authorities found Lori Vallows long-missing children buried in the backyard of her apocalyptic author husbands Idaho backyard, her eldest son finally decided to call her in jail to get some answers.

Do you think you can hide from me? Colby Ryan, then 24, asked his mother at the start of the August 2020 conversation. You murdered my siblings.

The call, which was played Tuesday during Vallows trial in Ada County Court, came after a months-long investigation into the whereabouts of 17-year-old Tylee Ryan and 7-year-old Joshua JJ Vallow, who had been officially reported missing in November 2019.

Prosecutors allege that Vallow and her husband, Chad Daybell, fueled by their doomsday-focused religious beliefs, murdered the two kidsthen a month later allegedly conspired to kill Daybells first wife, Tammy, for insurance and social security funds before fleeing to Hawaii.

I have prayed for you in my worst moments, Ryan told his mother in that jailhouse call, I have prayed for my siblings who you swore to me were ok. I thought I could trust you. I thought that you were a completely different person.

On the recording, Vallow insists that her eldest son does not understand what happened to his siblings.

You don't even know, you weren't even there, Vallow told Ryan on the call.

Vallow has pleaded not guilty to murder and other charges in the deaths of JJ and Tylee and the alleged conspiracy to fatally strangle Tammy Daybell. Defense attorneys contend there is no evidence to prove she played a part and insist she is a loving mother with eccentric beliefs.

Ryan is the first family member to take the stand against his mother. As the 27-year-old entered the room on Tuesday, Vallow reportedly mouthed Oh, my babyas he refused to look at her.

Frequently breaking down into tears, Ryan described his relationship with his mother and said that while she had always been religious, she did not speak to him about the bizarre beliefs she adopted later in life.

Story continues

He also spoke about how close he was to his two half-siblings. The last time Ryan spoke to Tylee, he said, was on Sept. 8, 2019, when they discussed how Vallow had taken control of insurance money left when her former husband was shot dead by her brother in what he claimed was an act of self-defense.

Prosecutors allege that the kids were killed around Sept. 22, 2019, and buried in Daybells backyard. Authorities found JJ in a pet cemetery, wrapped in a garbage bag. His older sister was dismembered and buried in a fire pit nearby.

Ryan said around the time of the murders, he had attempted to Facetime and call his sister but only got text messages in return that were in a different language than how Tylee would talk and type.

On Nov. 29, 2019, Ryan said, he was contacted by Arizona police seeking the whereabouts of his siblings. He said when he asked Vallow what was going on, his mother would only say that she had moved.

She just told me she was moving somewhere cold, and it was dangerous for her to tell anybody where she had gone, Ryan said, adding that for months afterward, until she was arrested in 2020, he was unable to contact Vallow again.

The pair spoke again months after her arrestthe jailhouse call that was recorded Ryan is heard telling Vallow that he prayed for her and that he trusted herwhile his mother insisted she didnt do anything wrong.

It kills me to watch you take the victims route and say this shouldnt have happened to you when you are telling me that Chad Daybell came into your life and all of a sudden everything changes, Ryan said at one point. You lied to me, specifically to me, more times than I can count about this.

Despite the harsh rebuke, Vallow insists her son does not know what happened and that Jesus is still on her side. Vallow is then heard saying that nobody understands except for Tylee and JJ and that the whole world can judge her because she will see them again. Ryan responds by repeatedly begging his mother to explain what happened.

Why are you following Chad down the rabbit hole? Why would you follow anyone who is not good? How can you follow someone who cannot lead you to salvation in Jesus? You cant lie to me anymore, Ryan said. You cant hide anymore.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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(Reuters) -Ecuador's President Guillermo Lasso said he would dissolve congress and call early elections if he does not muster enough support among legislators ahead of a potential impeachment hearing, the Financial Times said on Tuesday.

The comments, in an interview with Lasso, come a day after lawyers representing him asked lawmakers to declare the impeachment hearing inadmissible, denying the accusations of embezzlement against him.

"Correct, correct. Thats what I declare," the newspaper quoted Lasso as saying in response to a query whether he would invoke a constitutional clause known as "mutual death" to force elections for both his own job and a new congress.

The constitution allows Lasso to call elections for both his post and the assembly instead of facing hearings, in a procedure widely described as "mutual death".

Opposition lawmakers in Ecuador's National Assembly have pushed for such hearings since last month. The Supreme Court gave the green light for the hearings, which could end in Lasso being censured or dismissed.

Opposition lawmakers will need 92 votes from the 137 members of the assembly to find Lasso guilty if the process reaches the final stage.

The embezzlement accusations concern a shipping contract for crude oil between public company Flopec and private sector business Amazonas Tanker Pool Company LLC.

Last month, an Ecuadorian opposition lawmaker said there was compelling evidence to present against Lasso at an impeachment hearing, including irregularities in the crude oil shipping contract.

The oversight committee will begin hearings for the impeachment trial this week.

(Reporting by Jyoti Narayan in Bengaluru; Writing by Isabel Woodford; Editing by Tom Hogue and Clarence Fernandez)
Eddie Marsan has shut down an agitated fan who called him a woke lefty after he defended Good Morning Britain presenter Adil Ray against racist bullying.

Earlier this month, Ray opened up about the racism he had been subjected to on social media following disparaging comments made about British-Pakistani men by Home Secretary Suella Braverman.

To see the racist bullying @adilray has been subject to over the last few days, has been heartbreaking, but the way hes dealt with it, with skill, humour and far superior intelligence has been inspiring, Marsan tweeted on Sunday (16 April).

The next day, a user responded to The Power stars post, angrily writing: I wish you were like the characters you portrayed. Not the woke lefty who tweets what he thinks people want to hear [middle finger emoji].

Shortly after, Marsan replied: Have you seen the characters I play?

The 54-year-old British actor currently features in Amazon Prime Videos new original series The Power as London crime boss Bernie Monke.

Across his lengthy and varied acting career, Marsans best known for his portrayal of real-life fraudster John Darwin in The Thief, His Wife and the Canoe, despondent former boxer Terry Donavan in Ray Donavan, and the villainous Red in Hancock.

Have you seen the characters I play? https://t.co/S59MNOsmvh  Eddie Marsan (@eddiemarsan) April 17, 2023

On 2 April, Braverman singled out British-Pakistani men while discussing the government crackdown on child sexual abuse.

Braverman claimed that a predominance of certain ethnic groups  and I say British Pakistani males  hold cultural values totally at odds with British values.

Later that week on GMB, while discussing the governments refugee policy, Ray shared his fear that the country was becoming more divided.

We had another divide this week with [Bravermans] comments about the community that I belong to, the British-Pakistani community, the presenter said.

Simply labelling British Pakistani men [as having] an issue when it comes to English white girls, he continued, I have suffered nothing but racism for the last seven days.
Sen. Daniel McCay, R-Riverton, sponsor of SB31, poses with the new Utah state flag at the Capitol in Salt Lake City on March 2. State officials said Thursday that an attempt to send the bill to a referendum did not get enough signatures to move forward. | Kristin Murphy, Deseret News

A bill that creates a new Utah state flag won't go to a future election.

The Utah Lieutenant Governor's Office confirmed to KSL.com on Thursday that a referendum measure on SB31 received 21,030 validated signatures and 28,449 more signatures to be reviewed by 5 p.m. Wednesday, well shy of the 134,298 signatures from registered voters needed to send any bill to a future ballot. Another 2,117 signatures were rejected.

While Wednesday was the deadline for signatures, county clerks had until noon Thursday to report all signatures they had received. Had the measure received enough signatures, there would be a three-week process to authenticate the numbers of registered voters and other requirements were met, such as a certain percentage of voters from different counties.

A group of residents called Referendum to Save Utah's Flag filed the paperwork to hold a referendum on SB31 in March, days after the Utah Legislature narrowly passed the bill. If it was successful, voters would have decided the fate of SB31, which designates a new state flag and designates the current flag as the state's "historical flag."

The update comes about a week after a Deseret News/Hinckley Institute of Politics poll found that about 48% of Utahns said they either strongly supported or somewhat supported the new flag design, compared to 35% who strongly or somewhat opposed it.

Sen. Dan McCay, R-Riverton, who sponsored SB31 and championed the effort for a new state flag, told Deseret News he was thrilled with those polling numbers.

"Flags are important, and people don't realize how important they are when their flag isn't one that they wear on a T-shirt or fly at their home," he said last week. "I'm seeing it as I drive down the road. There are already stores popping up with people selling things that have the new state emblem on it."

Despite the referendum failing, some changes to SB31 are still expected before the bill goes into effect on March 9, 2024.

Story continues

While the group continued to collect signatures on the referendum, Cox formally signed the bill and issued an executive order calling for the historic flag to be flown at the state Capitol at all times and at all state buildings during all state holidays and any "special occasions."

He also called on the Utah Legislature to amend state law so that the historic flag flies over the new design in times when both flags are flying on the same pole. That change is expected to be made before the flag flies for the first time.

The flag design was only tweaked once during the legislative session after it was first selected by Utah leaders in November. McCay introduced a design that turned the eight-sided star into a five-sided one before it was approved by the Utah Senate in January.

The design was selected after the Utah State Flag Task Force narrowed the field of 5,703 submissions collected in 2022. Utah leaders honored 70 people earlier this year who helped inspire the design.
Map of Egypt

Egypt is the largest Arab country, and has played a central role in Middle Eastern politics.

In the 1950s President Gamal Abdul Nasser pioneered Arab nationalism and the non-aligned movement, while his successor Anwar Sadat made peace with Israel and turned back to the West.

Egypt's great cities - and almost all agricultural activity - are concentrated along the banks of the Nile and its delta.

The economy depends heavily on agriculture, tourism, and cash remittances from Egyptians working abroad - mainly in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf countries.

However, rapid population growth and the limited amount of arable land are straining the country's resources and economy, and political unrest has often paralysed government efforts to address the problems.

ARAB REPUBLIC OF EGYPT: FACTS

Capital: Cairo

Area: 1,010,408 sq km

Population: 107.7 million

Language: Arabic

Life expectancy: 69 years (men) 74 years (women)

LEADERS

President: Abdel Fattah al-Sisi

Egypt's President Sisi

Retired Field Marshal Abdel Fattah al-Sisi was elected president in May 2014, almost a year after he removed his elected predecessor, the Muslim Brotherhood's Mohammed Morsi, from office in a coup.

In addition to Egypt's struggling economy, President Sisi has to deal with an Islamist insurgency on its borders with Israel and Gaza.

MEDIA

Cairo has been Egypt's most important city since the 12th Century

Egypt is a major regional media player. Its TV and film industries supply much of the Arab-speaking world with content and its press is influential.

TV is the favourite medium and there are several big hitters in the sector, including the state broadcaster.

The authorities have been increasing controls over traditional and social media to an unprecedented degree.

Reporters Without Borders says Egypt is "one of the world's biggest prisons" for journalists.

Read full media profile

TIMELINE

The 1956 Suez crisis made Egypt's President Nasser a hero in Arab eyes

Some key dates in Egypt's history:

3150BC - Egypt is unified under Menes, leading to a series of dynasties that rule the country for the next three millennia.

Story continues

c. 2700-2200BC - Old Kingdom. Sees building of numerous pyramids, most notably the Third Dynasty pyramid of Djoser and the Fourth Dynasty Giza pyramids.

c. 2181-2055 BC - First Intermediate Period. End of Old Kingdom and period of political instability.

c. 2040-1782 BC - Middle Kingdom. Sees political reunification.

c. 1700-1550BC - Second Intermediate Period. Renewed politcal instability. Hyksos, from the Levant, rule Egypt from the Delta.

c. 1550-1070BC - New Kingdom. Marks rise of Egypt as an international power expanding pharaonic rule to Nubia and the Levant. Noted for some of the most well known Pharaohs, including Hatshepsut, Thutmose III, Akhenaten and his wife Nefertiti, Tutankhamun and Ramesses II.

525BC - Achaemenid Persians, led by Cambyses II, began their conquest of Egypt.

332BC - Egypt falls to Alexander the Great as part of his conquest of Achaemenid Persia.

323BC - Alexander dies.

305-30BC - Greek general Ptolemy and his descendants rule as pharaohs.

30BC - Egypt falls to Octavian - the future Roman emperor Augustus - after his forces defeat those of rival Mark Anthony and Egyptian Queen Cleopatra at the naval battle of Actium in 27BC.

Egypt is a key province of the Roman, and later the Byzantine empires.

639-642AD - Byzantine Egypt conquered by Muslim Arab armies. Muslim rulers remain in control of Egypt for the next six centuries.

1250-1517 - Mamluk Egypt. The country is ruled by a caste of freed slave soldiers.

1260 - The Mamluks under Sultan Qutuz and Baybars rout the Mongols halting their southward expansion.

1517 - Ottoman Turks conquer Egypt, which becomes part of the Ottoman empire, but a semi-autonomous province under the Mamluks.

1798 - French troops led by Napoleon Bonaparte invade.

1801 - Defeat of French forces by Ottomans and British.

1805 - Ottoman Albanian commander Muhammad Ali establishes dynasty that rules until 1952, although nominally part of the Ottoman Empire.

1867 - Egypt becomes a Khedivate with the Ottoman Empire

1869 - Suez Canal is completed in partnership with France, but it and other infrastructure projects nearly bankrupt the country and lead to gradual British takeover.

1882 - British troops defeat Egyptian army and take control of country.

1914 - World War One. Egypt formally becomes a British protectorate. Period is marked by growing nationalism and discontent with British rule .

1919 - Egyptian Revolution - a countrywide revolution against the British occupation of Egypt and Sudan triggered by the exiling of nationalist leaders.

1922 - Egypt gains independence, although British influence remains significant until mid-1950s.

1949 - Committee of the Free Officers' Movement formed to overthrow the monarchy.

1952 - Coup sees Gamal Abdel Nasser become prime minister in 1954 and president in 1956. He sets up Egypt in opposition to the conservative Arab monarchies of the Gulf and Western interests in the Middle East.

1954 - Evacuation Treaty signed. British forces, who began a gradual withdrawal under 1936 treaty, finally leave Egypt.

1956 - President Nasser nationalises the Suez Canal to fund the Aswan High Dam, after Britain and US withdraw financing. Britain, France and Israel invade over nationalisation of Suez Canal, but withdraw at US insistence.

1958-61 - Egypt and Syria form the short-lived United Arab Republic.

1967 - Israeli pre-emptive attack defeats Egypt, Jordan and Syria, leaving it in control of Sinai up to the Suez Canal and Egyptian-occupied Gaza.

1970 - Nasser dies.

1973 - Egypt and Syria go to war with Israel to reclaim land lost in 1967.

1975 - Suez Canal is re-opened for first time since 1967 war.

1978 - President Anwar Sadat makes peace with Israel in return for Israeli withdrawal from Sinai.

1981 - President Sadat is assassinated by Islamist extremists.

1997 - 62 people, mostly tourists, are massacred near Luxor.

2011 - Arab Spring popular uprising sees the toppling of President Hosni Mubarak.

2012 - Mohammed Morsi, an Islamist affiliated with the Muslim Brotherhood, is elected president.

2013 - Country sees widespread turmoil between liberals and Islamists over Egypt's future direction After public discontent with autocratic moves Morsi's Muslim Brotherhood government, the army carries out a coup to oust Morsi. Army chief Abdul Fattah al-Sisi takes over.
Reading papers at a Cairo cafe

Egypt is a major regional media player. Its press is one of the most influential and widely-read in the region, and its TV and film industry supplies much of the Arab-speaking world with shows from its Media Production City.

However, virtually all media are under direct control of the government, the secret services, or business leaders with political influence, says Reporters Without Borders (RSF).

Egypt is one of the world's biggest jailers of journalists, says RSF. Legislation has makes it possible to imprison journalists and close websites "for sharing independently reported information".

Citizens can be arrested and criminally charged for social media posts and online content, says Freedom House. A 2018 cyber crime law allows the authorities to block any website deemed to threaten national security or the economy.

Television is the most popular medium. There are two state-run national TVs, as well as state-run regional and thematic networks.

Egypt is a big force in satellite TV. Most leading Arab pay TV networks have a presence at Media Production City in Cairo. Egypt was the first Arab nation to have its own satellite, Nilesat.

There were 54.7 million internet users by July 2022, comprising 51% of the population (Internetworldstats.com). Mobile platforms account for the largest share of users. Facebook, YouTube and WhatsApp are popular platforms. For politics and online campaigning, Egyptians prefer Facebook and Twitter.

Press

Television

Story continues

Radio

National Media Authority (NMA) - state-run, operates national, regional and external services including flagship General Programme

Nile FM - private, Western pop

Nogoum FM - private, Arabic pop

News agency/internet
Last month, after talks with senior US officials, Egypt suspended a plan to secretly supply rockets to Russia and instead decided to produce artillery ammunition for Ukraine.

Source: European Pravda; The Washington Post (WP), referring to five US intelligence documents leaked earlier this month

Details: Last week, another document was reported exposing a secret scheme proposed by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi in February to provide Russia with up to 40,000 122 mm Sakr-45 rockets that can be used for Russian multiple-launch rocket systems. Sisi allegedly instructed his subordinates to keep the project secret "to avoid problems with the West".

However, new documents that WP obtained from the array of materials show that Sisi abandoned plans to supply Moscow in early March. Despite long-standing diplomatic and military relations with Russia, Egypt has been America's main ally in the Middle East for decades. It receives more than US$1 billion annually in military aid from the United States.

According to the documents, Egypt postponed the Moscow Agreement and approved the sale of 152 mm and 155 mm artillery shells to the United States for transfer to Ukraine.

Washington was trying to secure new supporters  and much-needed ammunition  for Kyiv's fight against Russian troops. The document says that Egypt intended to use its weapons production capabilities for Ukraine as a "lever" to obtain advanced American military products.

Background: Last week, Jack Teixeira, a 21-year-old US National Guard Air Force soldier, was accused of leaking top-secret military intelligence data. Charges were brought for the illegal copying and transferring of classified materials.

In recent weeks, many US intelligence documents have been published on social networks. The US Department of Justice has launched an investigation into the leak, which could last several months.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
zelensky - Volodymyr Tarasov/Ukrinform/Future Publishing via Getty Images

The United Nations secretary-general was really p----d off with Volodymyr Zelensky after the Ukrainian president ambushed him with a surprise military medal ceremony, according to leaked US documents.

Aides of Antonio Guterres accused Mr Zelensky of springing the event on their boss without warning on his third visit to the war-torn country.

The classified intelligence briefing, first reported by the Washington Post, suggests that the US have been eavesdropping on Mr Guterres's private communications.

In one leaked document, US officials said Mr Guterres emphasised that he made a point of not smiling the entire time through the medal ceremony.

During the surprise event on March 8, Mr Zelensky handed out medals to uniformed Ukrainian soldiers.

The Ukrainian presidents office later released photographs and videos of the event that implied Mr Guterres had congratulated the military personnel.

This could have damaged the image the UN chief was trying to create for himself as a natural intermediary positioned between Moscow and Kyiv.

Mr Guterres Kyiv - Volodymyr Tarasov/Ukrinform/Future Publishing via Getty Images

Mr Gutteres later told his spokesman, Stephane Dujarric, that he travelled to Kyiv to assist Ukraine, but that the Ukrainians do everything to liquidate us, according to the intelligence document.

The aide told the Washington Post that his boss was indeed unpleasantly surprised that a medal ceremony was added, without consultation, at the end of his very productive meeting in Kyiv with Ukrainian leaders.

However, he categorically denies using the term liquidate, Mr Dujarric added.

The leaked briefing has added fuel to the fire of suggestions that Washington feared Mr Gutteres was undermining international campaigns to hold Russia accountable for the war in Ukraine.

The classified documents were part of a trove of national security reports, allegedly leaked onto the Discord messaging platform.

Jack Teixeira, 21, a US Air National Guard, faces up to 15 years in prison if found guilty after he was charged last Friday with taking and transmitting the classified papers.

Story continues

Elsewhere, Egypt reversed a plan to give rockets to Russia after talks with top US officials and instead offered to make artillery shells for Ukraine.

Secret deal 'to avoid problems with the West'

The documents reported by the Washington Post gave further detail about Egypt's role, which was detailed in earlier leaks last week.

According to the classified documents that emerged last week, Cairo planned to produce up to 40,000 rockets for Moscow, and told its officials to keep the deal secret to avoid problems with the West.

The new documents suggested that Abdel Fatah El-Sisi, the Egyptian president, ditched the idea in early March.

Instead, Cairo decided to sell 155mm artillery shells, which were in short supply in the US, to Washington, which would then send them to Ukraine.

It reportedly put a stop to the alleged Moscow plan following visits to Cairo by senior US state department officials, and defence secretary Lloyd Austin, in late February and early March.

An intelligence assessment on March 9, the day after the defence secretary was in Cairo, showed Egypt had approved selling 155mm artillery shells to the US, the Washington Post reported.
Fox News settled a major defamation lawsuit for $787.5 million on Tuesday, according to the voting machine company that sued the top cable news network.

The settlement avoids a trial that could have shed additional light on former President Donald Trump's election lies, revealed more about how the right-leaning network operates and even redefined libel law in the U.S. Here are some things to know about the case.

___

THE CASE

Dominion Voting Systems sued Fox for $1.6 billion, claiming the news outlet repeatedly aired allegations that the company's voting machines were rigged against Trump in 2020 while knowing the accusations were untrue. Fox contended that it was reporting newsworthy charges made by supporters of the Republican president. The network said it was supported legally by libel standards.

The judge in the case announced that the two parties had resolved the matter Tuesday, just as opening arguments were scheduled to begin. Fox did not reveal settlement terms, but Dominion said the deal was for $787.5 million.

___

ELECTION DISCONNECT

Denver-based Dominion produced evidence that prominent people at Fox didn't believe the fraud allegations, even as the network gave Trumps allies airtime to repeat them. Multiple staffers texted and emailed in disbelief as Trump latched onto increasingly tenuous claims of being robbed by voter fraud. Foxs Sean Hannity said in a deposition that he did not believe the fraud claims for one second but wanted to give accusers the chance to produce evidence.

Fox founder Rupert Murdoch, questioned under oath, agreed that the 2020 election, won by Democrat Joe Biden, was free and fair: The election was not stolen, he said. Murdoch even wrote on Jan. 5, 2021, to a top executive urging that prominent Fox personalities issue a statement acknowledging Biden's legitimate win. At the same time, Murdoch acknowledged that Fox hosts such as Lou Dobbs and Jeanine Pirro at times endorsed false claims of election fraud.

Story continues

___

FOXS FEAR

The court papers laid out a profound concern at Fox over the impact of its election night call that Biden had beaten Trump in the battleground state of Arizona  a call that was accurate. Fox scooped its rivals on the call, but it infuriated Trump and many Fox viewers, who expressed their anger and began tuning in to rival conservative media outlets such as Newsmax. Emails and memos released in the case show Fox executives were highly aware of a drop-off in their network's viewership at the same time that Newsmax was gaining viewers, and the executives viewed that dynamic as a potential threat.

___

LIBEL LAW

In its defense, Fox relied on a doctrine of libel law that has been in place since a 1964 U.S. Supreme Court ruling. The doctrine has made it difficult for some plaintiffs to prove defamation by news outlets. Public figures, and Dominion fits that standard in this case, have to prove not only that the information reported was incorrect but that the news organization acted with reckless disregard about whether it was true or not.

Some First Amendment advocates suggested the voting machine company had a strong argument. But they worried that a prolonged legal battle would give the Supreme Court a chance to change libel laws that would weaken protection for all media.

___

JUDGE'S IRE

The run-up to the trial was rocky for Fox, and not just because the public got a look at such private chatter as primetime host Tucker Carlson saying he passionately hated Trump. The trial judge has scolded the network for 11th-hour disclosures about Murdochs role at Fox News and about some evidence involving Fox Business host Maria Bartiromo, including recordings of her talking off-camera with Trumps lawyers.

Fox lawyers later apologized to the judge about the Murdoch matter, saying it was a misunderstanding not intended to deceive. Fox, meanwhile, won some legal fights over limiting what jurors could hear, including a ruling that barred testimony about the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.

___

TRUMPS INTEREST

Trump took a keen interest in the case, judging by his social media posts. Always concerned about loyalty, and nursing a grudge about the Arizona call, he expressed anger at revelations in the case that many people at Fox not only did not support his fraud allegations but privately disdained them. Trump stepped up his criticism of Fox as the 2024 Republican presidential race gained steam, but he gave recent interviews to Carlson and Hannity.

___

THE ELECTION

Federal and state election officials, exhaustive reviews in multiple battleground states where Trump challenged his loss, and Trumps attorney general found no widespread fraud that could have changed the outcome of the 2020 election. Nor did they uncover any credible evidence that the vote was tainted. Trumps allegations of fraud also have been roundly rejected by dozens of courts, including by judges he appointed.
Saturday marks the return of Elk Grove Brewfest, the annual celebration of all things beer at Elk Grove Regional Park.

Brewers, cidermakers and vintners from across the Sacramento region and California will be on board for the afternoon event, 2-6 p.m., including Elk Grove craft brewers Flatland, Tilted Mash and Waterman; and Sacramento standard bearers Big Sexy, Track 7, High Water and New Glory.

Also on tap, music on three stages from deejays Nocturnal and Lions in Paris and live acts Thunder Cover and Inverness 95; food and games.

Tickets for the 21-and-over event are $50 for 3-6 p.m. general admission, which includes unlimited beer, wine, ciders and a tasting cup. VIP tickets are $75. Ticketholders receive early 2 p.m. access, and access to the festivals VIP area and beer pours. Admission is $15 for designated drivers.

Elk Grove Regional Park is located 9950 Elk Grove Florin Road.
Twitter has been labeling several news organizations as "Government-funded Media," which they say inaccurately compares them to state-owned outlets in other countries. CFOTO/Future Publishing via Getty Images

Canadian broadcaster CBC's Twitter label has been changed to "69% Government-funded Media."

Musk said the change occurred because the CBC said it's "less than 70% government-funded."

The CBC disputed the idea that it's influenced by the government, and said it's quitting Twitter for now.

Elon Musk has switched the Canadian Broadcasting Corp's Twitter tag to "69% Government-funded Media," claiming that the media company said less than 70% of its funds come from the Canadian government.

"Canadian Broadcasting Corp said they're 'less than 70% government-funded,' so we corrected the label," Musk tweeted on Monday evening.

The change was reflected on the CBC's Twitter account as of press time, but not on its accounts for its news and radio divisions.

It's unclear when the CBC might have told Musk that it was "less than 70% government-funded." The public broadcaster did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment sent outside regular business hours.

Its Twitter label has been changed several times over the last two days.

Before the "69%" change on Monday, it was initially labeled just as "government-funded Media" by Twitter on Sunday.

Several other news organizations, such as National Public Radio and Public Broadcasting Service, have in recent weeks been tagged with the same label. Twitter's policy defines government-funded media as outlets that receive money from governments and "may have varying degrees of government involvement over editorial content."

Disputing the label on Sunday, the CBC said that while it receives public funds, its journalism is independent from government control.

"Our journalism is impartial and independent. To suggest otherwise is untrue," the broadcaster wrote in a tweet, saying that it was pausing its use of Twitter.

Musk, however, wasn't done. On Monday, he spotted a Twitter thread highlighting the CBC's fiscal reports.

Story continues

It said the reports show the CBC receives 70% of its funding from the federal government. The thread also resurfaced a 2017 tweet from the CBC discussing its sources of revenue.

T(w)itter Daily News  (@TitterDaily) April 17, 2023

Musk responded to the thread, pondering if the CBC should be labeled as "70% govt funded." "Just trying to be accurate," the billionaire wrote.

The CBC's Twitter label was changed that evening to show "70% Government-funded Media," but then was altered again to show "69%," Reuters reported.

Musk habitually posts memes and tweets about the numbers "69," sometimes used to allude to a sex position, and "420," colloquially associated with the consumption of cannabis.

Like the CBC, some outlets that have been labeled as "Government-funded" have quit Twitter in protest, saying the characterization inaccurately compares them to state-controlled media organizations in other countries.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Fox News

Twitter CEO Elon Musk said in an interview that aired Monday that its still to be determined whether his acquisition of the social media company last year was financially smart given its subsequent drop in value, but maintained that some things are priceless.

Speaking to Fox News host Tucker Carlson, who heralded the SpaceX founders $44 billion purchase of Twitter last October as a win for free speech, Musk acknowledged his recent $20 billion valuation of the site.

It remains to be seen as to whether this was financially smart, Musk said when asked if he thought it was worth the buy. Currently, it is not. We just revalued the company at less than half of the acquisition price.

Sorry, replied Carlson, whose interview also featured Musk claimingwithout evidencethat various government agencies could access users direct messages before his takeover.

Musk, laughing over the situation, continued: My timing was terrible for when the offer was made because it was right before advertising plummeted.

In the few weeks after Musk took charge, dozens of top advertisers fled the siteapparently wary of his leadershipwhich has seen a slimmed down workforce and content moderation system. Musk has used the platform to push a conspiracy theory about Paul Pelosi, reinstate the accounts of Donald Trump and other right-wingers previously banned for promoting misinformation, and pettily strip The New York Times of its verified badge, among other things. NPR, along with its 52 affiliated accounts, has stopped tweeting after Musk inaccurately designated it state-affiliated media, and then later government-funded, even though the federal government is the source of 1 percent of NPRs funding.

You caught the high water mark, I noticed, Carlson said of Musks purchase.

Yeah, so I must be a real genius here. My timing is amazing, since I bought it for at least twice as much as it should have been bought for. But some things are priceless, Musk said. So whether Im losing money or not, that is a secondary issue compared to ensuring the strength of democracy. And free speech is the bedrock of a functioning democracy.

Story continues

Musk has shifted stances several times regarding the details of his endeavor. He at one point put in placeand then reversed course ona ban on posting links to other social media sites like Instagram and Mastodon. Musk also bannedand then reinstatedaccounts belonging to journalists whom he claimed doxxed his location, but who denied doing so. And Musks initial call for a $20 verification badge ended up being $8.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now.

Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now.
Elon Musk and the New York Times' office. Gotham/Getty Images; Lindsey Nicholson/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Elon Musk said on Fox News' "Tucker Carlson Tonight" that news organizations should limit tweets.

The interview was done after Musk stripped The New York Times of its blue tick on Twitter.

Musk said the NYT was the "Twitter equivalent of diarrhea."

Elon Musk said news organizations should limit their tweets to 10 stories a day during an interview on Fox News Channel's "Tucker Carlson Tonight," which aired on Monday but was recorded earlier this month.

During the interview, Musk discussed his decision to remove The New York Times' blue tick on Twitter. Carlson asked Musk about a tweet at the time in which he described the Times' feed as "the Twitter equivalent of diarrhea."

Musk told Carlson that this is because The Times "tweet every single article, even the ones that are boring, even ones that don't make it into the paper."

"If you were to follow @NYTimes on Twitter, you're going to get barraged with like, hundreds of tweets a day, and your whole feed will be filled with NY Times," he added. "What are the big stories of the day? Put out like 10 or something  some number that's manageable."

According to the social-media tracker Socialblade, the newspaper tweeted an average of 110 times a day over the last two weeks.

But over the weekend, it only tweeted 92 times  compared to Musk's 102.

The billionaire's posts included updates on Twitter and SpaceX, as well as several short replies and two memes.

"I was the most interacted-with account on the whole system before the acquisition, and so I clearly know something about how to use Twitter," Musk told Carlson, referring to the period before he acquired Twitter in October.

Last month, Musk overtook Barack Obama to become the most-followed account on Twitter, five months after buying the company.

According to a Platformer report from March, Musk's account is one of 35 "VIPs" whose tweets are secretly prioritized by Twitter. NBA star Lebron James, conservative commentator Ben Shapiro, and US politician Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez are among the others.

Story continues

The VIP users' tweets reportedly bypass a Twitter algorithm that prevents too many posts from a particular user from being viewed.

Musk previously denied another report from Platformer that he ordered staff to boost his tweets in February. One Twitter engineer was reportedly fired after telling Musk that his popularity was falling in response to his questions about why his view count had dropped on Twitter.

Some users have previously complained about seeing too much of Musk in their feeds  which he blamed on a bug. Others are willing to pay $4 a month for a subscription service that allows them to ask him anything.

Musk is known for his erratic late-night tweeting style. In an interview with the BBC this month he said he thinks he should stop tweeting after 3 a.m. "Have I shot myself in the foot with tweets multiple times? Yes," he said.

Insider contacted Twitter for comment. The company responded with an automated message that didn't address the inquiry.

Read the original article on Business Insider
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's chief rival in next month's election defended Kurdish rights on Tuesday and accused the Turkish leader of stoking ethnic tensions for political gain.

Kemal Kilicdaroglu's comments followed weeks of attempts by Erdogan to link the opposition with Kurdish militants who have been waging a deadly insurgency against the Turkish state.

Kilicdaroglu leads a six-party coalition that is posing one of the stiffest electoral challenges of Erdogan's two-decade rule.

The May 14 presidential ballot appears too close to call.

Erdogan's continued control of parliament through an alliance between his Islamic-rooted party and a far-right group also appears in doubt.

The Turkish leader has tried to energise his nationalist base by casting Kilicdaroglu -- an ethnic Alevi from a largely Kurdish region -- as a foreign-backed promoter of Turkey's domestic enemies.

Kilicdaroglu responded with one of his most robust defences of Kurdish rights to date.

"Millions of Kurds are currently being treated as terrorists," Kilicdaroglu said in a video message posted on Twitter.

"Whenever we talk about elections, whenever the (presidential) palace sees that it will lose the elections, a collective stigma and treatment of the Kurds as terrorists begins. It is shameful," he said.

- Kingmakers -

Erdogan's attacks began after the pro-Kurdish HDP party -- in danger of being disbanded over its alleged ties to the militants -- gave Kilicdaroglu its tacit support last month.

The party has picked up more than 10 percent of the vote in past national elections and is seen as a kingmaker in the race.

Erdogan enjoyed some support from Kurdish voters in the early stages of his rule.

His government tried to broker a ceasefire with the militants under which Kurds would enjoy more autonomy in Turkey's southeast.

A breakdown of those talks was followed by a failed 2016 coup attempt that Erdogan responded to by unleashing purges in which tens of thousands were jailed or lost their government jobs.

Story continues

Kilicdaroglu has pledged to free Erdogan's political opponents from jail if elected.

"They will now let the prisoners rejoin the government," Erdogan fumed in one of his speeches last weekend.

Erdogan also routinely accuses Kilicdaroglu of "receiving his instructions" from a mountainous region of northern Iraq where the militants have their rear base.

Kilicdaroglu's Twitter post ends a period of political ambiguity during which some elements of the opposition courted Kurdish voters while others took a more hardline stance.

The six-party alliance includes an upstart right-wing party that refuses to work with Kurdish leaders in any future government that would form should Erdogan lose.

The HDP had refrained from outright endorsing Kilicdaroglu out of an apparent fear that this might cost him votes with more nationalist Turks.

But it now appears on the verge of formally backing Kilicdaroglu's campaign.

"We will vote for a presidential candidate who objects to the oppression of the Kurds," Turkish media quoted HDP co-leader Pervin Buldan as saying Tuesday.

"We will announce this name in the coming days," she added. "We will tell you the name openly, don't worry."

zak/kjm
Asmara was declared a Unesco World Heritage Site in 2017 for its well-preserved modernist architecture

Eritrea is the only African country to have no privately-owned media.

There is no room for freely reported news and the media are subject to the whim of the president, says Reporters Without Borders (RSF). In 2021, RSF rated Eritrea as having the worst overall press freedom in the world, even lower than North Korea.

The government has held a monopoly over broadcasting since independence. The few privately-owned newspapers were closed in 2001 as part of a crackdown on the opposition.

Outlets run by Eritreans abroad provide alternative news, but their reach and influence inside Eritrea are limited. Exile broadcaster Radio Erena operates from Paris.

Ethiopia used to provide transmission facilities for dissident groups but this stopped following the signing of the 2018 peace deal.

There were 248,000 internet users by December 2021, comprising just 6.8% of the population (InternetWorldStats.com) - the second-lowest penetration rate in Africa after Western Sahara.

Most Eritreans on Facebook and Twitter are based outside the country. Similarly, online forums are based abroad, mainly in Europe, Australia and the US.

Press/Online

Hadas Eritrea - government-owned, published three days a week

Eritrea Profile - government-owned weekly, in English

Awate.com - US-based opposition news website

Shabait.com - Ministry of Information website

Television

ERISAT (Eritrean Satellite Television) - the largest diaspora-based independent TV, broadcasts in multiple language

Eri TV - state-run, operates two channels with programmes in Tigrinya, Tigre, Arabic and English

Assenna TV (ATV) - London-based satellite station

Radio

Voice of the Broad Masses of Eritrea (Dimtsi Hafash) - state-run, operates two networks, programmes in nine languages

Zara FM - state-run, music-based network

Radio Erena - operates from Paris with support from media freedom group Reporters Without Borders (RSF)

News agency
A man points at the cover of a local newspaper in a street stall in a downtown area of the city of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on November 3, 2021

Imprisoned journalists were freed and previously banned media were allowed to operate under reforms championed by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed when he took office in 2018.

Among them were diaspora-based satellite TV stations ESAT and Oromo Media Network (OMN).

But by late 2020, amid inter-ethnic conflicts and fighting in the northern Tigray region, newly-recovered media freedoms were "hanging by a thread", Reporters Without Borders (RSF) said.

RSF said there had been no significant improvements to harsh media laws, which had been supplemented by a "vaguely-worded" law on hate speech and disinformation.

Although the state controls most broadcasting outlets, there is a handful of private TV and radio stations.

Radio is an important medium, reaching rural areas where most Ethiopians live.

Press circulation is largely confined to the literate urban elite.

There were 21.1 million internet users by December 2021, 17.7% of the population (Internetworldstats.com).

Online restrictions were rolled back after Abiy Ahmed took office in 2018, and the authorities lifted the blocking of hundreds of mainly opposition websites.

Social media platforms and messaging apps have been blocked intermittently, says Freedom House.

Press

Television

Radio

Radio Ethiopia - state-owned, operates National Service and regional stations

Voice of Tigray Revolution - Tigray Regional State government radio

Radio Fana - founded in 1994 by ruling party

Sheger FM - private, Addis Ababa

Zami Radio - private, Addis Ababa

News agencies/internet
(Bloomberg) -- European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called on the European Union to maintain a common position toward China after French President Emmanuel Macron sparked outrage by suggesting that the bloc should avoid being dragged into a dispute with Beijing by the US.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Von der Leyen told lawmakers in Strasbourg, France, that the EU needs to diversify away from China and make better use of its trade defense instruments.

Macron and von der Leyen visited Beijing earlier this month, after which the French president said the bloc shouldnt become a vassal in a US-China clash. Macrons comments caused anger and confusion among EU partners and the trip amounted to a diplomatic coup for Chinese leader Xi Jinping, who has sought to divide the US and its long-time allies.

The trip was necessary to ensure that we are as honest and clear in our messaging in Beijing as we are in Brussels or here in Strasbourg, von der Leyen said. This is a core part of our effort to de-risk through diplomacy, by reducing the space for misunderstanding and miscommunication regardless of how difficult the conversations may be.

Von der Leyen, who heads the EUs executive arm, spoke after various European leaders visited Beijing over the past weeks as Europe seeks to engage China in efforts to stop Russias invasion of Ukraine and rebalance the economic relationship.

I believe we can and we must carve out our own distinct European approach that also leaves space for us to cooperate with other partners, von der Leyen added.

Speaking before her, the EUs top diplomat, Josep Borrell, said that EU states need to align their voices in regards to China, or at least trying to speak along the same wavelength.

Story continues

--With assistance from Katharina Rosskopf.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
By Foo Yun Chee and Supantha Mukherjee

BRUSSELS/STOCKHOLM (Reuters) - The European Union agreed a 43-billion-euro ($47 billion) chip subsidies plan on Tuesday but the relatively modest budget, lack of a domestic market for cutting-edge chips and red tape could hamper efforts to catch up with the United States and Asia.

The size of subsidies under the EU Chips Act, which aims to tempt the world's top chipmakers to build factories in the bloc and double its share of global output to 20% by 2030, lags the $52 billion CHIPS for America Act.

The legislation is aimed at ensuring the region has supplies of critical components after COVID-19 lockdowns caused major shortages that hurt output of everything from mobile phones to cars and refrigerators.

It also wants to reduce its reliance on Asia. Taiwan accounts for more than 60% of global chip production and concerns are growing about heightened tensions between Taipei and Beijing.

The legislation which makes it easier for EU governments to provide funding has already attracted interest from Intel Corp, which picked Germany for a new mega chip manufacturing complex backed by 6.8 billion euros in subsidies.

STMicroelectronics has also teamed up with GlobalFoundries and Taiwan's TSMC is in talks with the German state of Saxony about building a factory there.

But Europe's relatively modest subsidies could put a brake on its ambition, said Richard Windsor of research company Radio Free Mobile.

"The subsidies are still likely to be below those available in Asia once again underlining that semiconductors right now are all about geopolitics and not economics," he wrote in a client note ahead of the EU agreement.

South Korea, the base of companies such as Samsung, has also unveiled plans to spend hundreds of billions of dollars to boost chipmaking over the next decade. Taiwan - home of TSMC - Japan, India, Vietnam and Thailand are all working on incentives to attract chip industries to their countries.

Story continues

"Europe and USA are going to struggle to compete against Asia," Windsor said.

GOOD START

The EU Chips Act is a good start given the EU has little choice but to join the subsidy race, but the bloc should play to its chipmaking strengths, said Christopher Cytera, research fellow at the Centre for European Policy Analysis.

Dutch company ASML dominates manufacturing of the machines that are required to produce the latest chips used in phones to cars, Germany's Zeiss leads in eyeglass and camera lenses while Belgium's Solvay and Germany's BASF provide critical chemicals.

The EU's regulatory red tape requiring agreement from 27 member states however could be a problem, industry experts say.

"The United States can get the money approved by Congress, but for Europe to get the money approved they have to go through all the member states and if France and Germany are benefiting, then it's a bit of a problem," Cytera said.

Catching up on the chips race is more than just building factories and the Chips Act acknowledges this with its focus on developing skilled labour for the future, said Anielle Guedes, senior research analyst at IDC Technologies.

"One of the things that the industry needs the most today is to raise the profile of the people that are going to work in the industry in the coming years," she said.

"Otherwise, you can throw money at something like the production facilities, but this is not the kind of thing that you can push capital into and exit on the other side with whatever technology you want."

All the measures to boost output may create their own problems in future as global supply chains return to normal levels, said Rem Korteweg of the Clingendael Institute.

"There are already indications that the worst might be over when it comes to the semiconductor squeeze, so that we might have the risk of heavily-subsidized oversupply a couple of years down the road," he said.

(Reporting by Foo Yun Chee in Brussels and Supantha Mukherjee in Stockholm, additional reporting by Toby Sterling in Amsterdam; Editing by Josephine Mason and Emelia Sithole-Matarise)
(Bloomberg) -- The European Union proposed making it easier to wind down small and medium-sized banks as it seeks to regain momentum in deadlocked talks over forging closer banking ties in the region.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The blocs executive arm suggested tapping national deposit protection funds to bridge gaps at banks that dont have sufficient reserves as part of a package of proposed reforms published on Tuesday in Brussels and reported earlier by Bloomberg. The aim is to limit any hit to taxpayers or savers.

Europe came up with new rules for spreading the cost of failing banks to avoid a repeat of the taxpayer-funded bailouts that followed the 2008 financial crisis. Yet the strict bail-in framework  where non-insured depositors with more than 100,000 ($109,760) in holdings may be forced to bear some of the losses  has not worked well in practice.

Thats because smaller lenders dont have the same capacity to bear losses as larger banks and some countries have circumvented the strict framework to protect depositors. The European Commissions proposal would see deposit guarantee funds, which are financed by banks, step in at lenders that dont have enough equity and bonds to wipe out.

The new rules have been years in the making, but theres more urgency following the recent turmoil in the US when several smaller lenders collapsed and the rescue of Credit Suisse Group AG.

We all can see how things have changed in global banking in the last few months, so now is the time to act and to look at how we can make further progress, Paschal Donohoe, who leads the group of finance ministers from countries that share the euro, told Bloomberg during a visit to Washington, DC, last week.

Story continues

Donohoe added that progress on the latest commission proposals could be a path toward achieving more ambitious goals to bolster the banking union, including by creating a common deposit guarantee scheme for the region. That has proved highly contentious as countries including Germany are worried about their savers being on the hook for losses at banks in other countries.

Our proposal is to allow these schemes to contribute to the funding needed to transfer all deposits  insured as well as uninsured  from a failing bank to healthy bank, Valdis Dombrovskis, the commissions executive vice president, told reporters. This bridge mechanism can be a more efficient and cheaper way to deal with a bank crisis and protect depositors, instead of paying them after the bank has failed.

Some skeptics said the EU should be cautious about providing backstops for banks whose collapse wouldnt threaten the blocs financial stability.

Some member states have institutional protection systems with a proven track record in place, Markus Ferber, a German member of the European Parliament who serves on the economic committee, noting that the EU shouldnt undermine national systems that work well.

(Updates with quotes from Dombrovskis, Ferber in final paragraphs)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
The European Parliament and EU member states reached an agreement Tuesday on a plan to boost the supply of semiconductors in Europe, as the bloc races to reduce its dependence on Asian suppliers.

The European Union has prioritised local chip production after the coronavirus pandemic triggered supply chain shocks that led to significant shortages.

Asian industry, especially firms in China and Taiwan, currently dominate the manufacture and export of semiconductors.

EU chief Ursula von der Leyen said the deal "will allow for a competitive chips industry and build the foundation for a global market share. It will power a clean tech industry made in Europe and strengthen our digital resilience and sovereignty."

Under the provisional political agreement, the EU aims to double its current global market share to 20 percent in 2030 and mobilise more than 43 billion euros ($47.2 billion) in public and private investments to feed Europe's growing appetite for chips.

Europe will need to quadruple its production to meet this target.

Funding will come from existing EU budget money and the deal will also loosen state aid rules to spend money on developing centres to produce the key component.

The EU will also mobilise 3.3 billion euros for research and development, and the deal includes a system to monitor supply shortages to act in times of crisis.

The legislative text also forms part of the bloc's bid to produce more in Europe to reduce its vulnerability to geopolitical shocks like the war in Ukraine.

When Russia invaded Ukraine last year, the EU scurried to find alternative energy sources after years of relying upon Russian fossil fuels.

"This will allow us to rebalance and secure our supply chains, reducing our collective dependence on Asia," Thierry Breton, the EU's industry commissioner, said in a statement after the parliament and the European Council reached an agreement.

- Hunger for chips -

Europe was under pressure to act fast.

In August, the United States approved its own Chips and Science Act that included around $52 billion to promote production of microchips and tens of billions of dollars more for scientific research and development.

Story continues

Japan and South Korea have also vowed to spend billions on developing their countries' semiconductor production.

Washington has leaned on allies including Japan and the Netherlands this year to curb exports on semiconductor technology to China, much to Beijing's chagrin.

French-Italian chipmaker STMicroelectronics, US-based GlobalFoundries and US tech giant Intel said last year they would pour billions into new production sites in France and Germany. They will now be able to seek state subsidies for their projects.

Brussels is racing to protect the bloc's competitive edge in the face of threats from China and the United States, which have ploughed billions into green technology.

Last month, the EU's executive arm published two proposals to push Europe to produce more clean technology including critical raw materials needed to manufacture batteries for electric vehicles.

"Europe aims to become an industrial powerhouse in the markets of the future - the digital and clean technologies that will allow us to remain a competitive export force, generate quality jobs and ensure our security of supply," Breton said.

"Because there will be no green or digital transition without a strong manufacturing base," he added.

raz/dc/ach
EVANSVILLE  More than one year after police accused an Evansville man of sexually assaulting a woman inside the subsidized housing complex where they both lived, a jury found him guilty on all counts.

The conviction, which came Friday, capped off the two-day trial of 69-year-old Oscar Contreras Zamilpa. Jurors found him guilty of committing rape, a Level 1 felony; criminal confinement, a Level 5 felony, and three counts of sexual battery, a Level 6 felony.

According to the Evansville Police Department, officers received an anonymous tip Feb. 18, 2022, reporting a possible sexual assault at the Independence Square housing complex, which is located at 201 W. Delaware Street.

Officers spoke to the victim, who said a man she knew as "Mike" attacked her as she walked into his apartment to discuss the sale of a couch. According to Independence Square's website, units are reserved for seniors or younger adults who suffer from disabilities.

More: Former prosecutor to investigate Vanderburgh County board's move away from ABK Tracking

Writing in an affidavit, EPD Detective Robert Waller said officers were able to identify "Mike" as Zamilpa. The victim told police that when she entered Zamilpa's room, he shut the door behind him.

"Immediately, (Zamilpa) pushed the victim up against the wall and held her there," the affidavit states. Zamilpa then proceeded to sexually assault the victim, according to her testimony and evidence gathered during a subsequent medical examination at Deaconess Midtown Hospital.

After making contact with Zamilpa at his apartment unit, police transported him to the EPD's headquarters for questioning. Waller said Zamilpa waived his right to an attorney and denied ever assaulting the victim.

More: Winning Powerball ticket was purchased in Evansville, hasn't been cashed. It expires soon.

During Zamilpa's two-day trial, prosecutors presented DNA evidence they said linked Zamilpa to the assault. Nurses at Deaconess Midtown Hospital also documented multiple bruises and abrasions stemming from the assault, according to Waller.

Story continues

After the trial, Vanderburgh County Prosecutor Diana Moers said her office is "prepared to recommend a harsh punishment" at Zamilpa's sentencing, which is scheduled for May 12.

Vanderburgh County Superior Court Judge Robert J. Pigman ordered Zamilpa to be held without bond at the Vanderburgh County jail until his sentencing, according to court records.

Houston Harwood can be contacted at houston.harwood@courierpress.com

This article originally appeared on Evansville Courier & Press: Evansville man accused of sexual attack convicted on all counts
Andriy Kobolyev

Read also: NABU suspects former Naftogaz head Kobolev of embezzling over $6 million

In particular, Kobolyev must:

appear at every request to a detective, prosecutor, and court

not leave Kyiv Oblast without the permission of a detective, prosecutor, or court

notify a prosecutor, detective, or court about a change of a place of residence

refrain from communicating with witnesses in the case

hand over international passport(s)

wear an ankle monitor.

The SAPO added that, according to the HACCs Appeals Chamber ruling, Kobolyev must post UAH 230 million ($6.2 million) in bail and fulfill the obligations set out by the court.

Read also: Why ex-Naftogaz head Kobolyev is facing prison once more

Despite the fact that the decision to apply this preventive measure was made on March 1, 2023, it has not been implemented yet as the funds have not been fully posted, the anti-graft agency said.

On April 14, the HACC left the motion to extend the investigation period in Kobolyevs case without consideration. His lawyers said that the court had already rejected the same motion on April 12, but the prosecutors resubmitted.

The HACC decided the pretrial restrictions for Kobolyev on March 14, including the ankle monitor and UAH 229.2 million in bail.

On Jan. 19, 2023, the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the SAPO charged Kobolyev with abuse of office by arranging the payment of bonuses worth more than UAH 229 million back in 2018.

The prosecutor requested that Kobolyev be held in custody with bail set at UAH 365 million ($9.9 million).

Read also: Anti-graft agency appeals against court ruling to release ex-Naftogaz head Kobolyev

The court, however, decided to not detain him. The SAPO appealed the ruling.

The SAPO said on March 7 that Kobolyev had not fully posted the bail, with only UAH 96.6 million ($2.6 million) paid.

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 Daniela Desantis

ASUNCION (Reuters) - Paraguay's main opposition presidential candidate Efrain Alegre will favor "austerity" to cut public sector spending over raising taxes on the country's farmers if he wins the country's April 30 election, he told Reuters in an interview.

Alegre, who leads the center-left Concertacion Nacional coalition, is seen neck-and-neck in opinion polls with ruling party candidate Santiago Pena, who is looking to extend the conservative Colorado Party's political dominance.

Both candidates are under pressure to reduce a fiscal deficit that was 3% of gross domestic product last year, either through reducing spending or increasing taxes on farming, the main driver of the landlocked country's economy.

Paraguay is the global No. 6 soybean producer, most of which is exported, and a key beef supplier. Soy exports currently face no levies, boosting competitiveness, but the country's diplomatic ties with Taiwan have closed doors to China.

"We have to put the public budget in order, we have to carry out austerity in the public sector, we cannot simply say if there is a lack of money, we are going to raise taxes," Alegre told Reuters at his home outside Asuncion.

The broader tax burden in Paraguay was 10.4% in 2022, one of the lowest in the region, but attempts to hike taxes, including on farming, have long faced political and industry pushback.

Pena, the ruling party candidate, has said publicly he wants to crack down on tax evasion and have more people working in the formal economy. He also has shied away from raising taxes.

"It is very difficult for the private sector to feel comfortable paying more taxes if the public sector does not make an effort to properly use the available resources," Alegre said, citing frequent complaints of bribery and embezzlement.

Alegre has criticized Paraguay's current diplomatic relations with Taiwan going back over 60 years, which have made it hard to sell soy and beef to China, a major global buyer. He said Paraguay does not benefit enough from its Taiwan ties.

"We are going to solve this based on national interests and of course also based on our alliances in international politics. The current relationship is insufficient, we have a critical position to what we have today," he said.

(Reporting by Daniela Desantis; Editing by Adam Jourdan and Jonathan Oatis)
By Leigh Thomas

PARIS (Reuters) -French President Emmanuel Macron may have pushed through his unpopular pension reform but only at great cost to his political capital, which he is now seeking to repair by offering talks with trade unions on other issues.

Given that his pension plan, which raises the statutory retirement age from 62 to 64, merely puts France more in line with its European Union neighbours, some foreign commentators have wondered what all the protests and public anger were about.

But that fails not only to grasp why the French saw the 62-year retirement age as a cherished social benefit but also the concerns of the many workers whose personal situations meant they were excluded from it and now face later retirement.

CAN THE FRENCH RETIRE EARLIER THAN OTHERS IN EUROPE?

In theory, yes. Along with Greece, France currently has the lowest statutory retirement age in the European Union, where the average across the 27-nation bloc is 64.8 years.

Comparatively lower retirement and high life expectancy mean that the French do indeed spend longer in retirement than many other countries, according to data from the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development.

The OECD calculates that a French man typically spends 23.5 years in retirement, second only to Luxembourgers' 24 years and well above the 20 years that men in Britain and Germany spend retired.

ARE THEY BETTER OFF THAN OTHER PENSIONERS?

French pension payments as a share of pre-retirement earnings are comfortably higher than elsewhere. A French retiree's pension post-tax income comes in at nearly three-quarters of their pre-retirement earnings compared with 58% in Britain and nearly 53% in Germany, according to the OECD.

Such largesse comes at a cost. France spends nearly 14% of economic output on its pension system. That is nearly double the OECD average of 7.7%, with only Italy and Greece spending more than France.

But such high spending helps keep France's poverty rate for retired people among the lowest in the developed world at only 4% of the population compared with an OECD average of 13% while inequality rates are also lower than average.

Story continues

DOES EVERYONE BENEFIT?

Not exactly. While France stands out for its low standard retirement age, the picture is less clear cut than it first seems because when a worker retires also depends on how long they have made contributions to the pension system.

The period workers are required to pay in is gradually being raised from 42 to 43 years, and Macron's reform brings forward the 43-year target to 2027 from 2035 previously.

More than one third of French workers already leave the workforce later than 62, according to the Conseil d'Orientation des Retraites, an independent panel that provides pension analysis for the government.

Often people who started working late because of higher studies or who took time out from their careers to raise children have to work well past 62. Anyone can now and after Macron's reform retire at 67 with a full pension regardless of how long they pay in.

The OECD estimates that the normal retirement age for a Frenchmen who started work at 22 is 64.5 years, fractionally higher than the EU average of 64.3 but behind Germany's 65.7 years.

However, because many countries allow exceptions for early retirement and some people retire before a full pension is earned, the average effective age is in many countries lower than the standard legal age.

In France the average effective age people leave the labour market is 60.4, well below the OECD average of 63.8.

NOW WHAT?

In a prime-time televised address on Monday night, Macron explained to the French that "working a bit longer, as our European neighbours have done", will create more wealth for the economy and allow greater levels of investment.

Opposition parties and unions say that Macron's plans are a brutal attack on the country's welfare model, where hefty taxes and pension contributions fund generous social services.

Macron's government says that raising the retirement age will plug a 13.5 billion euro shortfall the pension system would otherwise be running by 2030.

However, a study published on Tuesday by the Rexecode economics think tank suggested that the government's expected gains were overly optimistic and a shortfall would likely remain.

(Reporting by Leigh Thomas; editing by Mark John and Nick Macfie)
WASHINGTON (AP)  Older Americans and people with weak immune systems can get an extra COVID-19 booster dose this spring.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Wednesday signed off on a more flexible booster schedule for people who remain at the highest risk from COVID-19  giving them the choice of a second bivalent Pfizer or Moderna booster, the most up-to-date formula.

Many in the population are experiencing vaccine fatigue but there is a subset who are eager to receive additional doses, CDCs Dr. Sara Oliver told an agency advisory panel that expressed support for the change.

The move came a day after the Food and Drug Administration took steps to make coronavirus vaccinations simpler for everyone. From now on, anyone getting a Pfizer or Moderna dose  whether its a booster or their first-ever vaccination  will get an updated version rather than the outdated original shots.

Here are some things to know:

WHO NEEDS A BOOSTER?

Anyone whos gotten their original vaccinations but hasnt had an updated booster yet can still get one. Only 42% of Americans 65 and older  and just 20% of all adults  have gotten one of those updated boosters since September.

WHO CAN GET A SECOND UPDATED BOOSTER?

People 65 or older who already had one Pfizer or Moderna updated booster can roll up their sleeves again as long as its been at least four months since that last shot.

The schedule is a little different for people with weak immune systems. Most can choose a second Pfizer or Moderna updated booster at least two months after their first. Under the latest FDA and CDC guidelines, they also could get additional doses if and when their physician decides they need one.

WHY THE EXTRA LEEWAY?

Older adults continue to have the highest rates of hospitalization from COVID-19, even as cases have declined. But a frail 85-year-old may want another booster right away while a robust 65-year-old may not see the need  or might instead time another shot for peak protection ahead of a summer vacation or other special event.

Story continues

CDC officials stressed theres even more variety among immune-compromised patients, from people with only mild impairment to those trying to replenish immunity that grueling cancer treatment knocked out.

The changes put the U.S. in line with Britain and Canada, which also are offering certain vulnerable populations a spring shot. Its a reasonable choice, Dr. Matthew Laurens, of the University of Maryland School of Medicine, said before the announcement.

We do have vaccines that are available to protect against these severe consequences, so why not use them? he said. They dont do any good just sitting on a shelf.

WILL YOUNGER, HEALTHIER PEOPLE GET A FALL DOSE?

Stay tuned. The FDA will hold a public meeting in June to consider if the vaccine recipe needs more adjusting to better match the latest coronavirus strains  just like it adjusts flu vaccines every year. And part of that discussion will be whether younger, healthier people also need a booster.

The updated Pfizer and Moderna shots being used now target the BA.4 and BA.5 omicron versions, which have been replaced by an ever-changing list of omicron descendants. Still, while protection against mild infections is short-lived, those updated doses continue to do a good job fighting severe disease and death even against the newest variants.

TOTS ARE LEAST LIKELY TO BE VACCINATED YET

CDCs advisers were dismayed at how few of the youngest children are vaccinated. Just 6% of 2- to 4-year-olds have gotten their initial COVID-19 shots and 4.5% of those younger than 2. Far fewer got an updated booster.

The FDAs new rules mean tots under 5 whove never been vaccinated can get the most up-to-date formula  two Moderna shots or three of the Pfizer-BioNTech version. Unvaccinated 5-year-olds can get two Moderna doses or a single Pfizer shot. And tots already fully or partially vaccinated may get a bivalent shot or two depending on their vaccination history.

WHAT ABOUT THE NOVAVAX VACCINE?

Novavax makes a more traditional type of COVID-19 vaccine, and its original formula remains available for people who dont want the Pfizer or Moderna option. Novavax also is getting ready in case FDA urges a fall update, by manufacturing several additional formulas. ___ 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.
MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russian President Vladimir Putin was shown on video on Tuesday, purportedly in the part of Ukraine's Kherson region controlled by Russian forces, meeting Colonel General Mikhail Teplinsky, a commander who British military intelligence said had recently been restored to a major role in the Ukraine campaign.

Here are some facts about Teplinsky:

- Born in 1969 in Soviet Ukraine, in the now war-torn Donetsk region, Teplinsky served with Russian forces stationed in Moldova's Russian-speaking breakaway region of Transdniestria, and putting down an Islamist insurgency in Chechnya.

- He was appointed in June 2022 to head Russia's elite airborne forces, which had suffered heavy casualties in the earliest days of the war in Ukraine. Britain's Ministry of Defence said he was dismissed from a senior operational role in the Ukraine campaign in January 2023.

- Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of the Wagner militia who has publicly feuded with the Russian defence establishment, praised Teplinsky in March, calling him "honest, competent ... uncompromising and fearless".

- Britain's Ministry of Defence said in one of its daily reports on Sunday that Teplinsky was likely to be "one of the few senior Russian generals widely respected by the rank-and-file".

- It said Teplinsky's new remit was likely to go beyond commanding only airborne forces.

(Reporting by Reuters; Editing by Kevin Liffey)
LONDON (Reuters) - King Charles became monarch of the United Kingdom and 14 other realms on the death of his mother Queen Elizabeth in September, but in May he will be crowned in a ceremony full of pomp, pageantry and solemn religious significance.

Why is he crowned and what does it all mean?

HISTORY

For the best part of a thousand years, the kings and queens of England and Britain have been crowned at London's Westminster Abbey in a ceremony that has changed little throughout the centuries.

There have been 38 monarchs crowned at the Abbey - Edward V, one of two young princes believed to have been murdered in the Tower of London in the 15th Century, and Edward VIII, who abdicated to marry American divorcee Wallis Simpson, were not crowned.

UNIQUE

The coronation is not essential and no other monarchy across the globe has an event in the same style.

"The form of the ceremony that we'll see when Charles III is crowned is unique to this country and unique in its survival," royal historian Alice Hunt said.

It is organised by the Earl Marshal, England's most senior peer who is in charge of state occasions and which for centuries has been a position mainly held by The Duke of Norfolk and the Howard family.

Currently, it is the job of Edward Fitzalan-Howard, the current Duke of Norfolk who also arranged Queen Elizabeth's funeral.

WHY HAVE IT?

Originally, a coronation was a necessity for a monarch but is now a ceremonial event.

"In this country, the coronation still kind of persisted as a moment that would really legitimise that monarch in a public way," Hunt said.

"It has also always retained at its heart, a kind of religious moment of transformation. Although the monarch is the monarch from the moment the predecessor has died, the language of the coronation ceremony from since it was locked down in the 14th Century has still articulated that the king or queen somehow changes during that ceremony."

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WHAT HAPPENS?

The coronation service is a solemn, religious occasion and full of symbolism. Charles will take an oath to uphold the law and the Church of England.

Sitting on the historic Coronation Chair, known as King Edward's chair and containing the Stone of Destiny, he will be anointed by the Archbishop of Canterbury, the spiritual leader of the worldwide Anglican Communion, with holy oil consecrated in Jerusalem.

It is the centre point of the ceremony and signals the conferment of God's grace on the sovereign.

"It's very easy with a religious ceremony to let the words kind of wash over you," Hunt said. "But listen to what is being said around what is happening at that moment of anointing. That's really unique and quite powerful, and has a long, long history."

Charles will also be presented with various hugely ornate golden orbs, sceptres, swords and a ring, which all form part of the Crown Jewels and variously symbolise the monarch's power, authority and duties, and the power of God.

The Archbishop will then place the heavy St Edward's Crown, used in coronations for the last 35 years, upon his head. It will not be just Charles who is crowned. His wife Camilla will also go through a simpler, mini-coronation ceremony as queen.

Charles will leave the Abbey wearing a different crown, the Imperial State Crown.

(Reporting by Michael Holden; Editing by Angus MacSwan)
Eric Garvin, Jr.

The family of a man killed while taking a picture in Chile is continuing his legacy of fighting for justice.

Eric Garvin, Jr., a New York City lawyer, spent his career fighting against gun violence. He was shot to death in the capital city of Santiago after taking a picture of a building.

My son was an avid photographer and saw a building that piqued his interest because of its murals, his father tells Travel Noire.

But what Garvin Jr. didnt realize then was he was in a bad neighborhood. Santiago police were watching the building for illegal activity.

Photo Credit: Eric Garvin, Sr.

Two or three guys came across the screen and grabbed my son by the arm. You can see theres some form of communication going on. A bus comes through the video, and we suspect thats when the men shot him three times in the stomach, an emotional Garvin Sr. tells Travel Noire.

Chile police have arrested two suspects in connection with the murder, but the victims family says his death couldve been better prevented if the U.S. State Departments Travel Advisories were updated with correct information. They are now working with federal and international leaders to create a better way of informing and protecting travelers.

Transforming Pain Into Power

The family wants to leverage Garvin Jr.s death to bring change in Chile through two initiatives: justice and change.

Our sons murder is a symbol of the growing violence in Chile, says Garvin Sr. We want our sons death to be the impetus for Chilean leaders to aggressively address the clear and present danger of growing violence in their country.

Over the last year, Chilean officials have grappled with the uptick in gun violence. A report from the organization InSight Crime shows homicides in Chile grew by more than 32 percent in 2022 from the previous year. 2022 marked one of the countrys deadliest ever years.

Photo Credit: Eric Garvin, Sr

When Garvin Jr. traveled to Chile, the State Department listed the Latin American country as Level 2: Exercise increased caution in Chile due to civil unrest. The travel advisory does not describe the growing gun violence problem at the time of this report.

Story continues

Chile has been experiencing growing violent crime for several years, so this is not new, says Garvin Sr. The fact that the U.S. State Department has been silent on violence in Chile is gross negligence.

He adds, Our recommendation also includes highlighting Yungay and other neighborhoods as dangerous.

Garvin Jr. was murdered in Yungay.

So far, Garvin Sr. has support from U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY), New York City leaders, and international advocates but he wants to protect Americans abroad further by working with American cell phone providers.

Cell phone providers should be able to work together to provide no-cost travel safety updates  to protect U.S. citizens traveling abroad, Garvin Sr adds. Many of them already send push notifications without charge to the consumer about their phone and texting rates when entering a foreign country.

Continuing Garvin Jr.s Love For Travel and Helping People

As Garvin Sr. lets out a few sighs and pauses between words, its clear the family is wrestling with a painful reality. However, theyre honoring their loved ones life by doing what he loved  exploring the world and helping people.

Garvin Sr. is the executive director of the charity Cross World Africa where he will be heading in May. The organization works to overcome inequality in Kenya by creating opportunity.

The worst thing I could do is not honor what he loved, says Garvin Sr. Traveling is my tribute to my son. I am certain my son would be proud of his parents.

Photo Credit: Eric Garvin, Sr

RELATED: Instagram Models Death In Ghana Sparks Debate On Dangers Of Being Flown Out
Brandon Zapatas family members say they want answers and they want justice.

One week following the April 11 in-custody death of Zapata at La Gran Plaza, his family gathered outside the Bob Bolen Public Safety Complex on Tuesday to demand a meeting with Fort Worth police officials.

Reuben Garcia, Zapatas cousin, said they dont know why the 20-year-old went to La Gran Plaza shopping center on April 11, but the family believes his death could have been avoided.

Were trying to get the correct answers, he said.

Zapata was detained at La Gran Plaza, 4200 South Freeway Service Road, around 12:50 p.m., but his family does not understand why he was detained. According to an initial press release from the Fort Worth Police Department, Zapata was acting erratically and security guards from La Gran Plaza  including an off-duty police officer  restrained him and put him in handcuffs. Less than an hour later, he was dead.

First we want to express our most sincere condolences to the family, the Fort Worth Police Department said in an emailed statement to the Star-Telegram on Tuesday. Assistant Chief (Robert) Alldredge was able to meet with the family. The family was able to express concerns and ask where the investigation is thus far. They understand that we are working to help get more information to them.

Gloria Ortiz, Zapatas mother, said she is heartbroken.

No parent should have to bury their child, she said.

Brandon Zapata, 20, died after he was restrained and handcuffed by security officers at La Gran Plaza in Fort Worth, Texas, on April 11, 2023. Autopsy results are pending to determine his cause of death.

Ortiz said she didnt learn about her sons death until the medical examiner called her the next day. They had identified Zapata by his fingerprints.

The Tarrant County Medical Examiners Office conducted an autopsy but has not yet reported its findings on Zapatas cause or manner of death. Zapatas family said they havent seen the results of the autopsy or the toxicology report, but they are having a private autopsy done.

We believe that there was excessive force, said community activist Carlos Quintanilla, who was at the police department with the family on Tuesday.

Story continues

Video taken by employees who work at shops in La Gran Plaza shows two officers with their knees on Zapatas back. Also, the family said they saw extensive bruising on Zapatas back and shoulders at the funeral home.

Quintanilla said they were able to learn several things from Fort Worth police during their meeting Tuesday afternoon.

We had a very lengthy meeting with the deputy chief of police, with all the different individuals that are responsible for the investigation, he said.

Quintanilla said the family learned the officers who detained Zapata and knelt on his back were employed by La Gran Plaza as security officers. One of them was an off-duty Fort Worth police officer. Quintanilla said they were told that officer is still working for the department, but that his role in the incident is being investigated.

The officer has not been identified, Quintanilla said.

The Crisis Intervention Team, which normally responds to incidents that may involve mental health issues, did not respond, Quintanilla said.

During the meeting the family saw video obtained by the Fort Worth Police Department of the incident. Quintanilla said they could see Zapata calling for help.

He was obviously in severe distress, Quintanilla said.

Ortiz said her son suffered from asthma and had to use an inhaler. The family said that they believe his erratic behavior was a result of an asthma attack, which could have been exacerbated by the way he was treated by the security officers who detained him.

By the time Fort Worth police officers arrived at the mall, body-camera footage shows that Zapata was already dead, Quintanilla said. Police officers and later the paramedics tried to revive him but were unsuccessful.

The Star-Telegram has requested the body-camera video but has not received it.

Quintanilla said they have asked Fort Worth police to reach out to merchants at La Gran Plaza and provide a Spanish-speaking investigator who can communicate with them about what they saw.

Chris Ramirez, a spokesperson for the security office at La Gran Plaza, said that mall security couldnt comment on the incident because of the ongoing investigation.

Zapatas family has established a GoFundMe to help cover his funeral expenses.
The father of Madeline Kingsbury's children has not spoken to the missing Minnesota woman's family since her "involuntary" disappearance more than three weeks ago, her family told Fox News Digital.

Kingsbury, 26, has not been seen or heard from since she dropped off her kids at daycare with the children's father, Adam Fravel, around 8 a.m. on March 31, and she sent her sister a "goofy" text around 8:15 a.m. the same day.

Fravel maintained his innocence in a prepared statement through his lawyer last week, but the Kingsbury family has not heard from him since news broke about Kingsbury's disappearance, her aunt Rebecca Jacobson said on Tuesday.

Winona, Minnesota, police have not publicly said there is a suspect, but Chief Tom Williams said her disappearance is "suspicious" and "involuntary."

MADELINE KINGSBURY: COURT DOCS, MINNESOTA POLICE CONTRADICT CLAIMS FROM FATHER OF MISSING WOMAN'S KIDS

Minnesota mom Madline Kingsbury, 26, was last seen dropping her children off at daycare around 8 a.m. on March 31.

Fravel's lawyer, Zach Bauer, did not immediately respond to an email for comment.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

Meanwhile, law enforcement have been tightlipped about their search and investigation, even with Kingsbury's family, outside periodic updates in short, vague press releases.

FATHER OF MISSING MINNESOTA WOMAN'S CHILDREN BREAKS SILENCE 12 DAYS AFTER SHE VANISHED

The most recent update was Monday night, when Winona police said they continued "to conduct targeted searches for Maddi, based on information generated by the investigation and tips from the public."

Jacobson said law enforcement emphasized searches along the Mississippi River and nearby waters because the river rises about 3 feet every spring, which could wash away potential evidence.

Minnesota mom Madline Kingsbury, 26, was last seen dropping her children off at daycare around 8 a.m. on March 31.

Winona County Emergency Management posted pictures of a water search in an April 15 Facebook post.

"This is just one of multiple search operations conducted this week with our public safety partners," Winona County Emergency Management said in the post. "We will continue our search operations and working with Finding Madeline Kingsbury."

Story continues

MISSING MINNESOTA MOTHER MADELINE KINGSBURY'S FAMILY FEARED FOUL PLAY WHEN SHE DISAPPEARED AFTER DAY CARE DROP-OFF

Winona police said last week's searches have been on foot, aerial and underwater using sonar, submersibles and dog teams.

"This investigation is active and ongoing," police said in the April 17 statement. "We are not prepared to identify a suspect or person of interest at this time.

"We are continuing to follow several paths of inquiry as we work to determine what happened to Maddi, and if warranted, hold accountable the person or persons responsible for her disappearance."

Kingsbury's sister, Megan, has been posted daily check-in videos on TikTok. In last night's video, she said there was nothing new to report.

SEARCH FOR MADELINE KINGSBURY DRAWS THOUSANDS OF VOLUNTEERS: WE ARE NOT GIVING UP'

"Hopefully, we'll get some sort of news soon," Megan said as she held back tears in the three-minute video. "I miss my sister."

She talked about how her fiance has been supporting her and how family members are helping each other, but this case is clearly taking a toll on her.

Volunteers have come out in thousands over the last couple of weeks and continue to coordinate searches among each other on Facebook. The Hiawatcha Valley Mental Heath Center scheduled a community gathering to support the Kingsbury family and the community.

"The outpouring of support from everyone in the community has been amazing," Jacobson said.

MINNESOTA MAN'S ALLEGED MURDER-FOR-HIRE PLOT THWARTED FOR SECOND TIME

FRAVEL'S STATEMENT AND ALLEGED STANDOFF WITH SOCIAL WORKERS

As the search continues, Fravel said in his only statement "he has nothing to do with Maddi's disappearance," and he was told by police to stay away from press conferences and searches.

"Law enforcement advised me on April 2nd [Sunday] that they would not recommend that I attend the press conferences or that I assist in the searches due to safety concerns," Fravel said in his statement.

"However, my non-attendance and silence has been inferred by many as a sign of apathy, or worse. That could not be further from the truth."

Adam Fravel, who is the father of missing Minnesota woman Madeline Kingsbury's children, said he is innocent in a statement 12 days after her "suspicious" and "involuntary" disappearance.

His lawyer double down on that statement, but the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, which is assisting the Winona Police in Kingsbury's search, said in an email that it Is "not aware of any law enforcement advising Mr. Fravel not to attend news conferences or search(es) for Madeline."

Additionally, court documents obtained by Fox News Digital alleged Fravel was "non-cooperative" when social workers and police came to take the children and would not allow them access to the kids.

"At one point, (Fravel) took the younger child into the residence and locked the door despite being told that the children were in the care and custody of Winona County ," a petition filed April 4 by Winona County Health and Human Services just days after Kingsbury was last seen alleges.

FOX NEWS DIGITAL'S INTERVIEW WITH MEGAN KINGSBURY

Bauer said he does not represent Fravel in the child custody matter but said, "It's our general position to not comment on pending litigation."

SEND TIPS - PRESERVE ALL VIDEO RECORDINGS FROM MARCH 31 AND APRIL 1

Police said tips from the public have been integral to the investigation. People can call 1-800-222-TIPS or go to crimestoppersmn.org.

Police have also asked everyone in the area to check their security cameras and walk their properties to search for "anything unusual or out of place."

"Even if you have already done this, please do it again," police said in the April 17 press release. "The changing weather conditions might reveal new signs that weren't there before. If you find anything concerning, call you local law enforcement agency."

Police have also asked to preserve any surveillance footage from March 31 and April 1, even if there appears to be nothing on them.
Photograph: Bebeto Matthews/AP

The FBI has arrested two men accused of running a covert station for Chinas police force in New York, and using it as a base to track Chinese dissidents living in the US.

The station, in Manhattans Chinatown, was allegedly set up in February 2022 and operated by Beijings ministry of public security (MPS) as part of a campaign of transnational repression against Chinese pro-democracy activists and other political opponents around the world.

Related: FBI director very concerned by reports of secret Chinese police stations in US

The justice department also announced charges on Monday against 40 MPS officers and four others for allegedly running an internet troll operation against dissidents in the US, creating fake social media accounts to harass them and recruiting an employee at an unnamed US telecoms company to have a pro-democracy activist removed from the platform. The officers, thought to be in China, are alleged to be members of an MPS unit, the 912 special project working group, dedicated to the pursuit of dissidents abroad.

The alleged secret police station in New York was raided in October, and on Monday morning the FBI arrested two New Yorkers suspected of running it.

China has insisted that the New York site and similar offices around the world are run by volunteers and are not connected with the police. On Tuesday a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson again denied all accusations of an overseas police presence and accused the US of making groundless accusations.

Breon Peace, the US attorney for the eastern district of New York, said there was now evidence of direct ties between Chinese police and the New York site.

Two miles from our office, just across the Brooklyn Bridge, this nondescript office building in the heart of bustling Chinatown in lower Manhattan had a dark secret until several months ago. An entire floor of this building hosted an undeclared police station of the Chinese national police, Peace said.

Story continues

The station provided some Chinese government services, like helping renew driving licences, but failed to register with the justice department as agents of a foreign government, the charges said.

More troubling though is the fact that the secret police station appears to have had a more sinister use, Peace said. On at least one occasion, an official with the Chinese national police directed one of the defendants, a US citizen who worked at the secret police station, to help locate a pro-democracy activist of Chinese descent living in California. In other words, the Chinese national police appear to be using the station to track a US resident on US soil.

The two New York residents arrested, Harry Lu Jianwang, 61, and 59-year-old Chen Jinping, are also charged with obstruction of justice for allegedly deleting evidence on their phones of their contacts with an MPS official before a FBI search of the Chinatown police station in October of last year. The justice department said the two men admitted to deleting the material from their phones.

Related: A brazen intrusion: Chinas foreign police stations raise hackles in Canada

It is simply outrageous that Chinas ministry of public security thinks it can get away with establishing a secret, illegal police station on US soil to aid its efforts to export repression and subvert our rule of law, Kurt Ronnow, the acting assistant director of the FBIs counterintelligence division, said. This case serves as a powerful reminder that the Peoples Republic of China will stop at nothing to bend people to their will and silence messages they dont want anyone to hear.

A Spanish civil rights group, Safeguard Defenders, claimed last year that there are dozens of Chinese police stations in cities around the world, covertly carrying out surveillance and harassment. The alleged stations were mostly in Europe with nine in Spain, four in Italy, three in France, two in the Netherlands and three in the UK, in London and Glasgow, where their operations have been under police investigation. Three others were in Canada, where the alleged operations helped add to growing political tensions between Ottawa and Beijing.
A federal grand jury has indicted three men on suspicion of trying to arrange a murder-for-hire in Manteca.

The supposed hitman was actually an FBI informant, said a news release Monday from the U.S. Attorneys Office in Sacramento.

The April 13 indictment names Jagninder Singh Boparai, 46, of Manteca; Ramesh Kumar Birla Jr., 45, of Dublin; and Shaminderjit Singh Sandhu, 49, of Tracy.

Court documents said the intended target had filed a lawsuit accusing the three men of fraud in the purchase of a Stockton site that was to be developed as a truck parking lot.

The release said the informant met with the men starting Feb. 16 in a Starbucks parking lot just off Airport Way. More meetings followed until they were arrested March 31, the office said.

The indictment is not for attempted murder under California law. Instead, it is for conspiracy to use interstate commerce facilities in the commission of murder for hire. That can include transportation or communication systems. Boparai also is charged with the actual crime, not just conspiracy.

He, Birla and Sandhu face up to 10 years in prison and $250,000 in fines if convicted. They remain in custody.

Other details were laid out in the release and in a complaint filed by an FBI special agent:

The unnamed informant had a criminal record dating to 1998, mainly for theft, but was trusted by the FBI. This person agreed to meet with the three suspects and to record their conversations.

The informant was to kill the target for $30,000, including a $10,000 down payment. The unidentified target was never harmed.

The case has a twist: Boparai allegedly wanted the informant to first beat up another person to demonstrate a willingness to carry out the murder. This was because Boparai had once hired a hitman who failed to come through, the release said.

Lets start with a good beat up, very good, Boparai said in one recording. ... Then I have another job.

The informant was to receive $1,000 down and a total of $6,000 for the assault. But agents got wind of the deal. According to the release, they helped the victim fake a photo showing supposed injuries, so Boparai would be satisfied.

The FBI had assistance on the case from several federal, state and local law-enforcement agencies. Details on what they did were not disclosed.

These partners included the San Joaquin County sheriffs and probation departments; the Stanislaus County sheriff and district attorney; and police in Modesto, Ceres, Turlock, Lathrop, Stockton, Tracy and Dublin.
A federal watchdog on Tuesday informed the White House that Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra violated the Hatch Act at an awards gala last September.

The Office of Special Counsel (OSC) submitted a report to President Biden detailing that Becerra was found to have violated the ethics law when he said at a Congressional Hispanic Caucus event he would vote for Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) in the midterm elections.

In doing so, Secretary Becerra violated the Hatch Acts prohibition against using his official authority or influence to affect the result of an election, the OSC report stated.

Becerra told the federal office that his comments about Padilla were off-the-cuff and reflected his longstanding personal relationship with the senator.

OSC indicated in its report that its findings about Becerra should serve as a reminder for federal officials about proper conduct as the 2024 election season approaches.

Becerra is one of a handful of Biden administration officials to be cited for violating the Hatch Act, which prohibits federal government employees from engaging in campaign activity in their official capacity. The Hatch Act does not apply to the president or vice president.

Former White House press secretary Jen Psaki, former chief of staff Ron Klain, and Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Marcia Fudge all have been warned for making comments about candidates or an election.

The Trump administration was the subject of numerous Hatch Act complaints during its four years in power.

An outside government watchdog levied complaints against then-White House press secretaries Sarah Huckabee Sanders and Kayleigh McEnany, White House deputy press secretary Hogan Gidley, Trump chief of staff Mark Meadows and other staffers for violating the law.

The Office of Special Counsel recommended in 2019 that then-White House counselor Kellyanne Conway be fired for being a repeat offender, an extraordinary step that then-President Trump declined to take.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Back before the 2020 election, The New York Times reported that "nine Trump entities have written off at least $95,464 paid to a favorite hair and makeup artist of Ivanka Trump."

It was galling not just because of the Trump wealth and their dedication to double-dealing, but the fact that the rules seemingly didnt apply to people who dont spend the equivalent of a veterinarians annual salary on makeup and hair.

The IRS typically considers haircuts and hair care, makeup, manicures, cosmetic surgery, cosmetic dentistry and clothing as personal and not business expenses. Of course, many taxpayers dont appear on television like Ivanka Trump does, but these expenses applied to primping and preparing for her work advising on real estate projects.

Tax Day 2023: Deadline to file tax returns is April 18. Here's what to know.

Taking tax deductions for hair, makeup and nails isnt a grift. They are more often business expenses than they are personal ones. Its time that average people forced this point and started taking these deductions, too.

Opinions in your inbox: Get exclusive access to our columnists and the best of our columns

Filing taxes?: Small businesses have enough to worry about with Tax Day. Overzealous IRS shouldn't be one of them.

What counts as a deduction became a dispute in the 1970s in the case of Jeffrey Edmondson v. Commissioner. Edmondson was convicted for selling large quantities of methamphetamine, cocaine and marijuana. The IRS went after him for more than $17,000 in back taxes. Edmondson deducted amounts for phone service, business trips, cost of goods sold and even a portion of his rent as a home office, from where he dealt these drugs.

The court decided Edmondson was entitled to both ordinary and necessary business expenses related to his drug-dealing activities. It disallowed travel expenses for his trip to San Diego, not because it was related to illegal activity, but because Edmondson didnt have receipts for it.

Story continues

After that decision, though, Congress sought to counteract the law established through the courts opinion and passed Section 280E of the Internal Revenue Code, which doesnt really address deductions but rather what types of business can take deductions. Basically, the statute prevents any business that sells Schedule I or Schedule II substances from taking deductions.

Cannabis is now legal in most of America: But federal laws still block businesses from financial institutions

Pot justice: He's serving 40 years in prison, while legal marijuana makes others rich

Its a tad absurd because many people who engage in crime dont organize their businesses officially and they dont keep receipts. But the court was clear: It wasnt the deductions that were the problem; it was the business generating them.

The IRS and the federal government dont necessarily oppose deductions; they evolved because they are the best way to measure true net income. If all of a taxpayers income goes to business expenses, theyre not making all that much money  and they dont deserve to be taxed as if they do.

Second tax whammy for women, on top of the 'pink tax'

Women are taxed for all the income that we spend on appearing presentable in the workplace. The blowouts, the dermaplaning, the pumps, the suits that wrinkle least when we travel  theyre all ordinary; theyre commonplace, standard. And theyre necessary. Imagine walking into a business meeting with Bernie Sanders-level grooming. No woman can do that and succeed.

In his book, "Beauty Pays: Why Attractive People Are More Successful," economist Daniel Hamermesh explained the effect of grooming on peoples personal finances. Better appearing people are more likely to be employed, to get loans, to secure loans with better interest, and generally secure higher wages.

Nonetheless, these expenses are not accepted as ordinary or necessary despite the fact that reality demands them from women. Without these deductions, our income appears higher than it is, and we pay more every April.

Its the second tax whammy for women. The pink tax is an increase in prices of items that are substantially similar to those for men. Researchers have debated the pink tax as a need for legislative intervention, but its not erased. Women pay more for items such as razors or shampoo. And then they pay again when they pay their annual taxes.

What else is in the 'pink tax'?: America must abolish the tampon tax. Girls, women deserve it.

Legitimate questions Congress must ask: Trumps personal tax returns dont matter. But his LLC returns do.

And its not like the courts dont know this. In 1994, the U.S. Tax Court approved deductions for breast implant surgeries for a dancer because she proved that her income doubled when she expanded her chest size to 56FF. The implants proved themselves necessary to continued and improved employment.

Its hard to say that a foundation brush or lip gloss dont do the same. In his book, "Beauty Pays: Why Attractive People Are More Successful," economist Daniel Hamermesh explained the effect of grooming on peoples personal finances. Better appearing people are more likely to be employed, to get loans, to secure loans with better interest, and generally secure higher wages.

Allowing these deductions isnt exclusively about money. Its about acknowledging beauty cultures coercive influence on our wallets. We cant escape its grip  and perhaps we dont want to  but were lying to ourselves if we dont count up all the ways it costs more to be a woman.

It pays to push back. Bobbi Baehne, president of Think Big Go Local, dyed her hair purple for a conference and hasnt changed it. Now its her brand, advertising for the company. She writes off the $200 a month to keep the purple fresh with her accountants and the IRS blessing.

My dad was an IRS tax man: The job is more dangerous than it looks

A satirical look at President Biden's budget: A usage tax on 'woke' and a drag show in every home

Of course, highlights or veneers dont amount to a brand for the average person, so when they start taking these deductions, the IRS can disallow them or audit the taxpayer. But that could be an uphill battle for the tax avengers.

The IRS has already laid out the frivolous arguments for withholding tax payments and taking deductions for services, and products that women need to look presentable isnt on the list.

Theres little reason to fear that people will spend more on cosmetics than they would have in order to take advantage of the deduction. This line of thinking reflects the erroneous perception that these expenditures are discretionary. Theyre not. Womens pay and promotion prospects plummet if they dont doll themselves up.

Opinion alerts: Get columns from your favorite columnists + expert analysis on top issues, delivered straight to your device through the USA TODAY app. Don't have the app? Download it for free from your app store.

Chandra Bozelko, a columnist, is a member of the Junior Board of the Womens Prison Association and a 10 for 10 prize winner with the Canary Impact Fund.

Even if that did happen, I dont see the downside of an increase in this type of spending. It's far from a bad thing to support an economy that includes lower-wage retail workers and cosmetologists who often dont make enough to justify the cost of their training.

Its not cheating to file good faith deductions that accurately reflect the true state of ones income. Its high time to try it.

Chandra Bozelko, a columnist, is a member of the Junior Board of the Womens Prison Association, a 10 for 10 prize winner with the Canary Impact Fund and the author of "Up the River: An Anthology." Follow her on Twitter: @ChandraBozelko

You can read diverse opinions from our Board of Contributors and other writers on the Opinion front page, on Twitter @usatodayopinion and in our daily Opinion newsletter. To respond to a column, submit a comment to letters@usatoday.com.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Tax Day: Why IRS should let you write off hair, nails as deductions
WILMINGTON, Del.  Ex-Fox News producer Abby Grossberg said she recently found more evidence relevant to Dominion Voting Systems defamation lawsuit against her former employer and plans to turn it over to the court.

Grossberg, who worked as a senior producer for hosts Maria Bartiromo and Tucker Carlson, alleged in a new sworn statement obtained by NBC News that Fox lawyers ignored repeated reminders about an additional cellphone in her possession and did not search it during court-ordered discovery.

In the statement, Grossberg said she repeatedly told Fox lawyers that she had an inoperable company-issued cellphone that she used during 2020 election coverage. Fox lawyers told her to hang on to the device but never searched it or copied her files, as they did with her other phones, according to the statement.

Grossberg was fired in March after she filed a lawsuit claiming that Fox lawyers coerced her into giving misleading testimony in the Dominion case and that she was being made a scapegoat for the networks 2020 election coverage. Fox says she was fired for divulging privileged information.

Grossberg, in the new affidavit, said a forensic expert recently pulled two recordings off the broken phone that she recorded using an app called Otter, which simultaneously records and creates text transcriptions of audio files. The recordings, which she details in the affidavit and audio of which was shared with NBC News, are of phone interviews she participated in with Bartiromo: one with Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, and another with two sources who claimed to know about Dominion voter fraud.

She said she used Otter in the normal course of her work as a producer. Recordings are saved in the Otter app, and they can also be shared.

Grossbergs attorney, Gerry Filippatos, said the statement would be filed with the Delaware court as early as Tuesday, the day the trial is set to begin.

Abby Grossberg stands ready to do her part to ensure that justice is done; that those who are licensed and obligated to tell the truth, and guide others to the truth, do just that. As soon as possible and practicable, Ms. Grossberg will continue to set the record straight by telling all she knows to those who need to know, Filippatos said in a statement.

Story continues

In last weeks pretrial court appearances, Dominion attorneys played other recordings Grossberg made as a producer, including one with Trump lawyer Rudy Giuliani, that Dominion said theyd received from Fox just the previous week.

That, along with confusion over News Corp. Chairman Rupert Murdochs current role at Fox News, appeared to frustrate Delaware Superior Court Judge Eric Davis. Murdoch is Fox News executive chair, too.

He admonished the Fox lawyers for withholding evidence and not being straightforward with the court, and he said the company would have to foot the bill if an additional deposition was necessary. He also said he was considering appointing a special master to investigate legal misconduct by the attorneys over whether Fox misrepresented their discovery efforts.

Abby Grossberg is not Dominions problem. Its not my problem. Abby Grossberg is a Fox problem, Davis said at the hearing last week.

It may not show, but Im very uncomfortable, he added.

Dominion did not respond to requests for comment.

FOX News has complied with its discovery obligations, a Fox News spokesperson said in a statement.

At last weeks hearing, Fox lawyer Michael Skokna said Grossberg had not disclosed the existence of the Otter recordings.

In her new statement, Grossberg said that Skoknas claim was absolutely false and that she had told Fox lawyers about Otter in August.

I proactively and specifically disclosed to the Fox News attorneys that I used an app called Otter for work purposes during the relevant time period, she said, adding that a Fox attorney then asked her to explain how Otter works.

Abby Grossberg. (NBC News)

In a filing dated Monday, Fox lawyers added that while they had not known of Grossbergs Otter recordings, they had shared some of Grossbergs Otter transcripts found on email. The Giuliani transcript was shared with Dominion 10 months ago, they said.

Grossberg said that she recently asked a forensic expert to review the older phone and that the expert uncovered the recordings of the two interviews. Grossbergs attorney shared the audio with NBC News.

The first recording, made on Nov. 7, 2020, according to Grossbergs affidavit, was of a phone interview Bartiromo and Grossberg conducted with Cruz to discuss a planned broadcast appearance. Cruz is heard discussing voter fraud allegations  including an irregularity in Michigan, which uses Dominion machines in most counties  but stresses the need for facts and proof.

It falls on the shoulders of the legal team that is bringing these cases to ascertain the facts. And it just cant be, you know, someone tweeted this. Its got to be demonstrable facts that can be laid out with evidence, because thats what a court of law is gonna look to. Not just an allegation, but actual facts, Cruz said on the recording. And I hope when Rudy comes on the show tomorrow, he has some of those facts.

Cruz did not respond to a request for comment.

Grossberg said in her affidavit that the second recording, made on Nov. 13, 2020, was of a background interview Grossberg and Bartiromo conducted with a banker named Doug Anderson, the CEO of Wall Street Capital Partners, and a male source who was granted anonymity to participate.

The men discuss conspiratorial claims about Dominion voting machines; Bartiromo promises to help expose as much as we can, while Grossberg presses for more information.

Anderson did not respond to a request for comment.

Grossberg said in the new statement that after she was fired last month, Fox asked her to return her ID badge and her company-issued cellphone. She said she complied but added that she forgot that she still had the older, broken device at the time.

Chris Mattei, a lawyer who sued conspiracy theorist Alex Jones for defamation on behalf of families of the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut, said Dominions lawyers may well be able to capitalize on the situation.

The better thing that Dominions lawyers might think about is the extent to which they can use any evidence or cover up as affirmative evidence of something like consciousness of guilt, he said, especially if Grossberg testifies for Dominion.

Dominion included Grossberg on a list of proposed witnesses filed with the court.

Sometimes evidence of a cover-up or bad faith in litigation  like that evidence itself  a jury might find pretty compelling, he said.

Grossberg has filed to intervene in the Delaware defamation case, but the judge has not yet ruled on the matter.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Days after the shooting of 16-year-old Ralph Yarl after the teen rang the wrong doorbell in Kansas Citys Northland, prosecutors charged a Clay County man with two felonies. Yarl was picking up his younger siblings and mixed up E. 115th Terrace and E. 115th Street. When the teen rang the doorbell, instead of being greeted by his twin brothers, he was shot in the head, and then shot a second time.

The suspect, 84-year old Andrew Lester, faces one count of assault in the first degree and one count of armed criminal action. Both of these are felonies, and the assault charge is considered a class A felony because it caused serious physical injury.

First-degree assault is Missouris name for the charge other states call attempted murder, a local criminal defense lawyer told The Star. That means there is no separate attempted murder count that Lester could have been charged with.

Its the highest level offense in the state of Missouri, Clay County prosecutor Zachary Thompson said during a Monday press conference.

Combined, these charges carry a maximum sentence of 45 years, or life in prison, according to the prosecutor.

Some have called for Lester, who is white, to face hate crime charges as well, arguing that the shooting was racially motivated. Yarl is Black.

Clearly, race was a factor in this shooting. Therefore, it is my hope that federal hate crime charges will also be filed against Andrew Lester, said Gwen Grant, president and CEO of the Urban League of Greater Kansas City. He has not shot any white people who rang his doorbell.

Clay County prosecutors decided against pursuing hate crime charges on Monday, but its still possible for Lester to face additional federal charges.

Yarl, an honor student at Staley High School, was released from the hospital on Sunday and is recovering from his injuries at home.

Lester surrendered and was booked into Clay County jail on Tuesday afternoon. Shortly after, he posted bond and was then released from the jail in the same afternoon.

Story continues

Heres what the charges against him mean, and what we know so far.

Ralph Yarl

What does first-degree assault mean in Missouri?

Assault in the first degree is Missouris equivalent of an attempted murder charge, Gladstone criminal defense attorney Kevin Jamison told The Star Tuesday.

Other states call it attempted murder, we call it first-degree assault, he said. Its the same charge.

This crime is typically considered a class B felony in Missouri, but can be elevated to a class A felony if the person inflicts serious physical injury on the victim. Thats what happened in this case.

Charging documents released Monday argue that Lester committed this crime when he knowingly caused serious physical injury to (Yarl) by shooting him.

According to Missouri criminal codes, a person commits the offense of assault in the first degree if he or she attempts to kill or knowingly causes or attempts to cause serious physical injury to another person.

According to charging documents and prosecutors, the punishment for a class A felony ranges from 10 to 30 years, or life in prison.

It was appropriate for the prosecutor to charge him and the only tragedy was that it took so long for them to charge him, said Ben Crump, a national civil rights lawyer who is working with the Yarl family.

You cant send a message to society that its okay to shoot Black people in the head just for ringing your doorbell.

Andrew Lester, 84

What does armed criminal action mean in Missouri?

The second felony charge builds off the first because the assault charge was committed using a firearm.

According to Missouri criminal code, anyone who commits a felony in the state using a dangerous instrument or deadly weapon is also guilty of armed criminal action.

The sentence for this crime ranges from three to 15 years in prison if it is a first-time offense and if the weapon was owned legally.

The law states that this sentence will be in addition to and consecutive to any punishment for the crime itself.

That means if Lester is found guilty of both felonies, the sentences will stack on top of each other.

We dont have any evidence that Lester has been found guilty of a felony before, or that his gun was illegally owned. However, if this felony is a second offense or if it was committed with an illegally-owned weapon, the minimum sentence jumps to five years. If both these conditions are true, the minimum sentence jumps to 15 years.

Why wasnt the suspect charged with a hate crime?

At a news conference Monday, Thompson, the Clay County prosecutor, acknowledged that race was a factor in Yarls shooting but declined to elaborate on the specifics of the case.

There was a racial component to the case, Thompson said.

Missouri law allows the state to add hate offense charges to certain felonies which the state believes to be knowingly motivated because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation or disability of the victim.

These charges can be class D or E felonies depending on the circumstances. A class D felony can add up to seven years to a prison sentence, while a class E felony can add up to four years.

Thompson told reporters that hate offense charges have a lower range of punishment than what the defendant is currently charged with, and suggested that the charge couldnt easily be stacked on top of the existing charges.

At that point you would be talking about double jeopardy issues, Thompson said.

The federal government can also file hate crime charges.

They could, but they generally dont, Jamison said. If hes convicted of this, its punishable by 30 years to life. So its not like hes going to get out and do other things they dont have to step in when the case is already being handled at the local level.

Recent FBI data reveals that Missouri has been seeing a rise in hate crimes in recent years, with the highest number ever reported in 2021, the most recent year for which data is available. Kansas City leads the state in reported hate crimes, the majority of which are racially motivated.

Of the 119 racially motivated hate crimes reported in Missouri in 2021, 63 were committed as a result of anti-Black bias, the FBI data showed.

Why wasnt the suspect charged with attempted murder?

The charge that other states call attempted murder is called assault in the first degree in Missouri, Jamison told The Star.

The heaviest charge they could file on him is the first-degree assault, he said.

The Stars Glenn Rice, Luke Nozicka and Anna Spoerre contributed reporting.

Do you have more questions about the Ralph Yarl shooting or Missouri criminal law? Ask the Service Journalism team at kcq@kcstar.com.
[Source]

The first ladies of the U.S. and Japan honored the friendship between their countries by planting a cherry tree at the White House on Monday.

The sapling, which Jill Biden and Yuko Kishida planted near the East Wing, was sourced from a Yoshino tree planted on the south grounds back in 2017. There are 23 other cherry trees planted across the 18-acre property.

Yoshino plants are Japanese flowering trees that are known to bloom fragrant pinkish blossoms called sakura much earlier than other cherry varieties.

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The planting of this tree is a symbol of the friendship between our two nations forever and ever, Biden said as she welcomed Kishida to the presidential residence.

Before the ceremonial planting, the women first met over tea that Kishida prepared. Biden then gave Kishida a tour of the White House, taking her to meet President Joe Biden at the Oval Office.

The U.S. first lady then hosted a women-only lunch for Kishida and other guests that included Rep. Doris Matsui (D, CA-7), Washington Ballet principal dancer Maki Onuki and Yale University School of Medicine immunology professor Akiko Iwasaki.

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Kishidas visit, aimed at promoting friendship and cultural exchanges between the U.S. and Japan, marked the first time the spouse of the Japanese prime minister has traveled alone to the U.S.

She joined her husband Prime Minister Fumio Kishida during his meeting with President Joe Biden in January at the Oval Office but did not meet Jill Biden, who was recovering from a surgical procedure at the time. The U.S. first lady had several cancerous lesions removed from her skin two days prior to the meeting.

President Biden, who is seeking to promote closer security ties with both Japan and South Korea, will be hosting the state visit by South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol and first lady, Kim Keon-hee, next week.

Story continues

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Salmon in a river Jeff J. Mitchell/Getty Images

Most of the U.S. West Coast will ban salmon fishing this year in an effort to protect the species' population. California in particular has seen a significant hit to the salmon stock, requiring drastic measures for the first time in 14 years, per NPR.

What is happening to the fish stocks?

The low stock can be attributed to "the one-two punch of heavily engineered waterways and the supercharged heat and drought that come with climate change," explained The New York Times. Glen Spain, acting executive director of the Pacific Coast Federation of Fishermen's Associations, told The Associated Press the vast die-off of salmon eggs and juvenile salmon in recent years could be blamed on "politically driven, short-sighted water management policies."

The Chinook salmon, or king salmon, has been the most dramatically affected, NPR reported. This kind of salmon requires cold and clean freshwater to survive, but California's years of drought, coupled with warming water temperatures due to climate change, have taken a toll. "California salmon are in dire straits," according to climate scientist for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) Fisheries Nate Mantua. The state's historic redirection of water sources for agriculture "cut off salmon from the mountain rivers where they cooled off in summer and from the floodplains, rich with bugs, where they packed on weight in winter," the Times added.

California isn't the only area affected. There are reports of low salmon stock even further north in British Columbia, Canada. The region experienced a record-breaking heat wave in 2021, causing the salmon migration to be "doomed by heat," said Jesse Zeman, director of the B.C. Wildlife Federation. There has also been a decline in salmon populations in the Atlantic, according to a study published in the Holocene journal.

Story continues

Will a fishing ban help or hurt California?

A West Coast fishing ban is expected to reverberate across local communities in several ways. The price of salmon is likely to increase, and certain Indigenous tribes that have historically fished salmon for subsistence could suffer, CNN explained. "We lost our language," emphasized Keith Parker, senior fisheries biologist for the Yurok Tribe to the Times. "We lost our religion for a long time. We lost our fish. So, we lost a lot."

Still, many are in favor of the ban. "The fishing community  the commercial fleet and recreational fishing groups  have largely supported the closure of the salmon season," Michael Milstein, a spokesperson for NOAA Fisheries, told CNN. "They argue that they should not be fishing when the stocks have declined to this level."

Can salmon make a comeback?

The good news is that California experienced unprecedented precipitation recently, which could help to restore some of the salmon population that was lost due to drought. "We're hoping that this is going to help salmon populations get back on track and that it's not an anomaly  in that, this happens once, and then we slip back into a drought," Ben Enticknap, a scientist with the nonprofit Oceana, told CNN.

Four man-made dams are slated to be removed in the state, which will restore 400 miles of historic salmon habitat. "Even though it's like the lowest salmon runs and it's horrible, on the other side of the coin, it's also one of the greatest years because in July the first dam is coming down," Parker told the Times. Daniel Schindler, a professor at the University of Washington, added, "The best thing we can do is give those fish the best chance they have to figure it out evolutionarily," by allowing them more habitat access to spread into.

Water temperatures are only expected to get warmer though, especially with El Nino expected to return this year. "Climate change is expected to be detrimental to Pacific salmon populations at every life stage," Enticknap told CNN.

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Flood waters course downstream at Emigration Creek in Salt Lake City on Thursday, April 13, 2023. The National Weather Service issued another flood advisory for Emigration Creek on Monday. | Ryan Sun, Deseret News

More flooding is possible across parts of Utah as the state's record snowpack goes through more melting this week, hydrologists say.

The National Weather Service issued another flood advisory for Emigration Creek that remains in place through late Wednesday morning. The creek may reach 140 cubic feet per second, which is above the creek's threshold to cause minor flood damage to homes and other structures along the stream, including Hogle Zoo, according to the alert.

More than three dozen homes by the creek were temporarily listed under a voluntary evacuation order last week after flooding in the area of 1700 South between 1500 East and 1700 East. Wasatch Hollow Park was also closed. Laura Briefer, the director of Salt Lake City Public Utilities, told KSL NewsRadio Monday that a large piece of metal clogged a flood control culvert in the area, resulting in the flooding.

Crews from Salt Lake City and Salt Lake County worked Saturday to clear up the issue this weekend and it should help the situation.

"The system could have handled the flow, as far as we can tell (had it not been clogged)," she said. "We're pretty confident that the metal plate obstruction was really the culprit here."

Our Heavy Rescue Team spent the afternoon helping clear out a major blockage at Wasatch Hollow this afternoon. A large flat piece of metal had been preventing water from flowing as it should. pic.twitter.com/ZUYE66NkhB  Salt Lake City Fire Department (@slcfire) April 15, 2023

More strong streamflows are expected in the coming weeks and months because there is plenty of water still left in Utah's mountains, which may lead to more flooding. Less than 10% of Utah's record 30-inch statewide snowpack has melted so far, as of Monday morning. That means there are still 27.5 inches of water left to melt, on average.

Story continues

"We are expecting higher-than-normal flows pretty much everywhere, especially as temperatures rise," said Paul Miller, service coordination hydrologist for the National Weather Service's Colorado Basin River Forecast Center. "We're closely monitoring the (creeks with defined flood stages) so the weather forecast office in Salt Lake City will be issuing flood watches and warnings when appropriate. ... The big message is we're going to see high water everywhere and we're going to see colder-than-normal water everywhere."

Record snowpack to record streamflows?

This year's snowpack broke all sorts of records and more records could be broken as it melts. For example, the Colorado Basin River Forecast Center, earlier this month, issued a runoff forecast for Big Cottonwood Canyon. It calls for a peak flow of 930 cubic feet per second, which is more than double the average peak, and 130 cubic feet per second above the creek's flood stage.

It's also just above the creek's all-time streamflow of 925 cubic feet per second, recorded on June 1, 1984. The forecast calls for a worst-case maximum of 1,100 cubic feet per second, which would likely worsen any flooding by the creek.

Our latest forecast for peak flow at Big Cottonwood Creek is 930 CFS which would beat the record set in 1984. Because peak river flows are so dependent on spring weather, we issue a range of forecasts. The low-end forecast is 820 CFS and the high-end is 1,100 CFS. #utwx #flood pic.twitter.com/edplGw25ID  Colorado Basin RFC (@nwscbrfc) April 14, 2023

There's a lot that goes into this projection, Miller explains. First, hydrologists review the precipitation and snowpack levels across certain zones that melt into the creek. They then look into forecast precipitation and temperatures to project when and how the snow will melt. It also takes into a wide range of variables, such as previous soil moisture levels, evaporation and vegetation impact in the outlined zone.

"We tend to look at big areas and we forecast how much water is going to melt, and we route that water downstream through other big areas," he said.

Similarly-high streamflows are expected all over the Wasatch region and Utah, particularly around the usual peak in mid-May; however, Miller advises that all streamflow forecasts are "highly dependent on the weather."

Nearly all streams are expected to end up with peaks that are twice the normal, while records could break if Utah heats up too quickly. There's also enough snow to keep high flows going into July, so the snowmelt process could take some time this year. Other big projections include:

Bear River (at Paradise, Cache County): 240% of average

City Creek: 180% of average

Ogden River: 260% of average

Parleys Creek: 320% of average

Utah Lake inflows: 330% of average

Weber River (at Gateway, Morgan County): 250% of average

Experts warn that residents and outdoor recreation enthusiasts should be careful around the creeks this spring and early summer because the water will be as cold as it is swift. Dustin Dern, assistant chief at Unified Fire Authority, even recommended last week that people "just stay away" from any strong currents.

"Keep your pets away. Keep your children away," he said. "Don't try to walk across slick logs and rocks and all those things."

The strong currents may also result in more debris-caused flooding events.

Utah's streams are expected to reach levels not seen since at least the last above-normal water year in 2019, if not 2011, the last time Utah's snowpack surpassed 24 inches. Streams and rivers could pick up more debris and carry it downstream, something that is a bigger concern for any stream that cuts through a recent burn scar.

"It's definitely a distinct possibility," Miller said. "There's a lot of debris to be collected, there's vegetation that's grown (since 2011) and fast-moving high water that's really pushing things through channels and systems and then you get the debris accumulation at Emigration (Creek)."

Benefits to the Colorado River, Great Salt Lake

While the flood risk remains in place while there's snowpack left in the mountains, some of the worst-hit bodies of water stand to make major gains for the first time in years.

The Colorado Basin River Forecast Center recently forecast that runoffs will be 177% of the average by Lake Powell. If it comes to fruition, the reservoir, which hit an all-time low in Feburary for the second-straight year, would receive about 11.3 million acre-feet worth of water. That's not to say all of it will stay in the reservoir, which can hold up to about 26 million acre-feet of water, but it would help reverse some of its downward trends.

"It's a really large amount of water going in there," Miller said. "That's a great thing for the basin."

The Great Salt Lake will also continue to benefit from the runoffs, though it is tougher to project its outlook. The lake's level at the Saltair Boat Harbor is now up nearly 4 feet since November, according to U.S. Geological Survey data. But Miller said the lake levels are dependent on factors that the agency can't control, primarily upstream water consumption.

Yet the high streamflows forecast for the next few weeks and months are expected to help the lake continue to rise.

In the meantime, Miller advises residents to pay attention to Utah's forecast to prepare for any flooding in advance, as well as pay attention to any advisories or warnings issued by the National Weather Service.

"Even though there may not be a warning out, flows are going to be high (and) they're going to be fast," he said. "Exercise caution when you're going out and enjoying the nice days we've all been waiting for."

Contributing: Debbie Dujanovic and Dave Noriega
Gov. Ron DeSantis signs abortion ban law

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed Senate Bill 300, more commonly known as the Heartbeat Protection Act, into law. The six-week ban will go into effect only if Floridas Supreme Court upholds the states pre-existing 15-week abortion ban.

Last week, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed an extreme abortion ban into law. pic.twitter.com/uNkBGTaScQ  The Democrats (@TheDemocrats) April 17, 2023

I applaud the legislature for passing the Heartbeat Protection Act that expands pro-life protections and provides additional resources for young mothers and families, Governor DeSantis said in a statement.

The signed law increases abortion restrictions in Florida. It bans the termination of an unborn child with a detectable heartbeat, which occurs after six weeks. Women have to provide evidence if they are trying to get an abortion due to sexual assualt. A doctor only can perform the procedure with official evidence, including medical records or a police report.

Governor Gavin Newsom tweeted his disdain for the ban. He said that the Florida governor stripped women of their fundamental rights.

Florida will now require rape and incest victims to show documents to prove they got raped, he tweeted. If they cant provide them, the government will mandate they give birth to their rapists child.

The Impact on Black Women

Black maternal health is a very high concern nationwide. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that the Black maternal mortality rate was 69.9 deaths per 100,000 deaths. That is almost three times the rate for white women. The pre-term birth rate in Florida also is 56 percent higher for Black women, according to a March of Dimes report.

Kelly Treder, an OB-GYN physician, said national abortion bans directly impact Black women before the Heartbeat Protection Act passed. In the Health City interview, she cited centuries of healthcare racism as the cause of Black womens restricted from reproductive healthcare. She believes that women of color will have less access to abortions because of the lack of economic supports.

Story continues

With abortion funds going toward restrictive states for travel costs, Black and brown patients are less likely to have economic supports in place to be able to leave their state and their existing children to travel and get an abortion Treder said. One effect that we anticipate is that maternal morbidity and mortality will increase in all groups, because so many people simply will not be able to access abortion.

She believes that this is a step in the wrong direction, when it comes to Black maternal health.

The post Floridas Abortion Ban May Threaten Black Women and Mothers appeared first on 21Ninety.
Rep. Laurel Lee (R-Fla.) announced her endorsement of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) for president on Tuesday, straying from a string of Republican lawmakers that have started to line up behind former President Trumps 2024 campaign.

Our country is in crisis, and it is time Americans learn what Floridians already know: Ron DeSantiss conservative principles, proven track record, and his commitment to our country are exactly what we need in a leader, Lee, who served as DeSantiss secretary of state from 2019 to 2022, said in a statement endorsing the Florida governor. It was my honor to serve in his administration and it is my honor today to endorse him for President of the United States.

Lees endorsement of DeSantis, who has not yet announced a presidential bid but is widely expected to do so, comes as a number of Florida Republicans in Congress have started to endorse Trump. The list of Floridians backing the former president includes Reps. Byron Donalds (R-Fla.), Cory Mills (R-Fla.), Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.), Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.) and John Rutherford (R-Fla.).

Polling shows that Trump is the favorite in the race for the GOP nomination. Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley and former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson have already launched campaigns as well, but DeSantis, whose profile has risen quickly in the party in recent years, is seen as the main rival to Trump for the nomination should he run.

The only other House members that have endorsed DeSantis are Reps. Chip Roy (R-Texas) and Thomas Massie (R-Ky.)

The endorsement from Lee comes as DeSantis makes a trip to Washington, D.C., to meet with congressional Republicans. He has also traveled to several early voting states in recent weeks.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A Florida father and his 13-year-old daughter were rescued from a lake on Saturday after their Jet Ski sank, forcing them to tread water for nearly an hour, authorities said.

Christopher Snow, 31, and his daughter Alexis went missing after going out on the Jet Ski from Baker Creek Park in Thonotosassa around 6:50 p.m., the Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office said.

Snow's girlfriend, Carolyn Joyce, went to the dock around 8 p.m. after being unable to get in touch over the phone with the pair. Seeing that Snow and Alexis had yet to return, Joyce alerted Deputy Kevin Reich, who was on routine patrol at the dock.

A good Samaritan and his family took the deputy out onto Lake Thonotosassa on their boat to start the search while waiting for marine and aviation units to respond.

MISSING ALASKAN DOG MIRACULOUSLY RETURNS HOME AFTER DANGEROUS 150-MILE TREK ON THE FROZEN BERING SEA

Deputy Kevin Reich boarded a good Samaritan's boat and the group began searching for the Snows.

Within 40 minutes of first speaking with Joyce about the missing father and daughter, Reich spotted them in the water.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

"Help!" Alexis can be heard screaming on Reichs body camera.

Christopher Snow, 31, and his daughter Alexis had been treading water for nearly an hour before rescuers located in Lake Thonotosassa.

"We're coming, baby!" a woman on the boat yells back.

"Our Jet Ski sunk underwater!" Alexis says. The girl is thrown a rope and is pulled onboard the boat first.

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The pair appeared exhausted on the video when the rescuers pulled them aboard, and officials said they had been treading water for nearly an hour. The sheriffs office said they might not have survived if they had not been wearing life jackets.

The Snows appeared exhausted when the deputy and good Samaritans pulled them to safety.

"The swift response of our deputy and the assistance provided by the community played a crucial role in the successful rescue of Christopher and Alexis Snow," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "We are relieved that they were returned to shore safely and without any injuries. It is scary to imagine what could have happened had this father and daughter not been wearing their life jackets."

Snow thanked the sheriffs office and the local boaters in a statement.

Story continues

CLICK TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

"I want to thank both the boaters that helped and the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office for being on patrol and noticing something wasn't right," said Christopher Snow. "My life jacket wasn't sized properly, so this is a good reminder to make sure yours is fitted correctly."

The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office reminded residents to carry their cell phones in case of emergency while doing outdoor activities on the water.
Florida police and fire crews responded to reports of a mannequin on fire in an open field in Ruskin, but when they arrived, discovered it was in fact a body in flames, according to police.

The Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office said in a press release that at 8 a.m. Saturday, a 911 caller said they drove past what looked like a mannequin on fire.

The Hillsborough County, Florida deputies responded to a field where a mannequin was reportedly on fire, but crews learned it was in fact a person.

The caller told the dispatcher that the object was in an open field behind a residential neighborhood near Will Scarlett Avenue in Ruskin.

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Crews with the Hillsborough County Fire Rescue responded to the scene to extinguish the fire, and they learned the subject was not a mannequin, but a deceased human body.

Police could not identify the body because of upper body trauma and the severity of the burns.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

FILE- Police caution tape at a crime scene.

"This is a jarring scene," Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister said. "At this time, our deputies are doing everything they can to determine what happened to this person."

FLORIDA MAN, 20, ARRESTED IN SHOOTING DEATHS OF DAUGHTER'S MOTHER, HER MOTHER

Chronister added that his department believes it was an isolated incident, and they will continue to work to determine how this "horrific" crime happened.

The Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office is investigating the matter, and no other information was available.
It could have been the unbeatable waterfront view or a perfect perch that overlooks the jungle-like backyard. Perhaps it was a place the size of a postage stamp, but nonetheless a roof over their heads that holds their prized possessions. Or maybe the price was just right to finally escape the rental market.

There are immeasurable reasons that homeowners choose the place they call home. A safe haven, a sanctuary, a retreat. But the dream of homeownership and the stability it provides for many now feels uncertain because of the insurance crisis in Florida.

Homeowners are finding their premiums are going up two- or three-fold. Some are being suddenly dropped by their provider and forced to find new coverage, and others are learning that some providers are extremely picky about who they will cover or require a laundry list of fixes.

All the while, theres finger-pointing with lawmakers and insurance companies on one side, and lawyers, contractors and public adjusters on the other  with homeowners caught in the middle. And now, policyholders will pay a new 1% assessment starting in October that will go toward the state nonprofit agency to pay claims from insolvent insurers.

The crisis has put homeowners in a difficult position. Those on fixed income or who haven't had a raise in years are cutting necessities like groceries. Others may put off retirement or even move to another state.

The USA TODAY Network spoke to Florida homeowners about how property insurance increases are impacting their lives. Here is what they had to share.

Vinnette Williams with a $9,759 Citizens Property Insurance Corporation bill that she received for her home in Boynton Beach, Fla., on April 4, 2023.

The only home she has known in the U.S., 'it will be hard to let it go'

Beyond the hedges that line Vinnette Williams corner lot is an oasis of flora.

Young pineapples greet visitors near the front door, the not-quite-ripe fruit on display above a crown of leaves. Nearby, an avocado tree grows adjacent to a plum tree, along with jackfruit, coconut and papaya. The pumpkin she tossed in the yard has started to grow, with eggshells sprinkled strategically to fertilize the plants.

Story continues

And towering in the backyard is a mango tree packed with dozens, if not hundreds, of fruit.

But when her latest Citizens Property Insurance Corp. bill neared five figures, it threatened her piece of paradise, her home base.

It will be hard for me to let it go, she said.

Williams, 58, has known no other home in the United States since she came from Portland, Jamaica, with her brother and young son in 1987 to join her mother in Boynton Beach. What was once her mothers 1,200-square-foot home is now hers. Today, she shares it with her husband, Richard, and her aunt.

She loves how she isnt confined to just the walls of her home, like she might be in an apartment or high-rise condo. She can step outside and soak in the bounty of her yard. Being centrally located and close to Interstate 95 and not having to fight traffic day in and day out doesnt hurt, either. Family members from Jamaica always have a place to stay when theyre in town.

Its a house where somebody needs, maybe, help for somewhere to stay awhile, theyll come, she said.

This is the second year that Williams and her husband have been with Citizens, after their previous insurer Universal Property & Casualty Insurance Company declined to issue any policies east of U.S. 1, she said.

With Universal, their insurance premium was around $3,200. When she went with Citizens, her new premium was nearly three times that amount, but she hadn't realized it because she pays for the mortgage, property taxes and insurance through an escrow account. In February, she was notified that this year's premium would go up to $9,700, she said, and that the escrow account would be short $4,000.

It just came out of nowhere, she said.

Williams and her husband both work, but she only recently started making $15 an hour as a residential aide. The couple worried how they could afford to pay such a steep increase and considered dipping into her retirement fund.

Her son rushed to help her, fronting the money without question. This was before an agent she knows reviewed the renewal and found that Citizens didnt take into account their windows or wind mitigation inspection.

That brought down the premium to $4,238.

As she waits for the reimbursement so she can pay back her son, Williams worries about future insurance increases.

You still have to be mindful, she said. You have to keep saving, putting that money aside for the next time when it comes around.

She doesnt want to give up the place shes called home for decades. Its filled with memories, and she wants to hang onto it so that her son and grandchildren can enjoy it, too.

Naples couple cutting back on going out

When Joseph Bianco Jr. and his wife, Lynda, bought a condo in Naples 35 years ago, housing and insurance costs in the Sunshine State were much more reasonable.

He would know. He has sat on the condo board as president or treasurer for more than a decade and dealt first-hand with decisions on the buildings insurance.

Four years ago, property insurance for their 66-unit building was $80,000, he said. Now, its more than $300,000.

Joseph Bianco Jr.

The quarterly dues  which include property insurance, maintenance fees and other costs  went up from $2,800 last year to $3,600 this year. And this doesnt include the personal property insurance each condo owner needs to protect the inside of their units, for which the Biancos pay more than $4,000 a year.

These are more than ordinary increases in expenses. These are substantial increases in expenses, to the point where someone of lower or more moderate income is either not going to buy insurance or is going to be unable to afford the insurance even though its mandated by state law, he said.

The warm weather and beach access led them to their 2,065-square-foot condo near Vanderbilt Beach, only spending the summer months back in Michigan. Both retired and on a fixed income, Bianco said hes keeping tabs on the stock market and his wallet.

The thing thats funny with the insurance going up the way it is, it certainly caused us to try to slow down a bit, he said, adding they reconsider going out to dinner and the like.

Were very conscious of that increase being the biggest increase weve had in our budget, he added. But theres no question that that increase has really caught our attention.

While the higher insurance costs wont force them out of their condo, Bianco said the state needs to do more, such as subsidies for low- or middle-income households, to help property owners who cant afford the hikes.

It is a state of Florida problem, and unless the state of Florida governor and legislature keeps it as a high priority item, the long term is not going to be solved, he said.

Debt-free dreams dashed: Forced to get cash advances, 401K

Donna Lillard dreams of opening a cat cafe.

But for now, Pepper, Ross, Luna, Stink, Dwight, Socks, Bear, Bug, Peanut, Dante, Tiny and Lily stake a claim on her Sebastian house, where she runs her nonprofit adult feline sanctuary. Her two dogs, Scooter and Sage, call it home, too.

Its all she can do with the cost of everything going up, pet food and other necessities not excluded. She no longer fosters cats like she used to to avoid the extra expense.

Donna Lillard

Lillard lived in Broward County for 45 years and raised her two children by herself. As time went on, the roads and neighborhoods became noisier, more crowded and the people less friendly, she said. So six years ago, she packed up and moved four counties north.

It was like going from 100 miles an hour to 10 miles an hour, the 60-year-old said.

She settled on this three bedroom, two bathroom, 2,143-square-foot home because of the big yard for her dogs. She turned the carport into a "catio."

Her home costs had been relatively consistent, an important thing because she relies on disability benefits.

But when she received her most recent property insurance renewal, I almost had a heart attack, she said.

Her policy with Frontline Insurance, which includes a zero-deductible hurricane policy, went from roughly $2,200 to more than $3,800. The insurance provider increased her replacement costs of her home and contents, she said.

She waited an agonizing six weeks before her insurance agent was able to get the bill reduced by $500. During that time, Lillard shopped around for coverage, but she said other providers were hesitant to insure her 17-year-old roof, but she spent $100 on an inspection that found it has least six to eight more years of life.

Im petrified that theyre going to make me replace my roof in two years, she said. Theyve got us coming and going. We have no choice.

Her 83-year-old mother is in a much more dire situation. Unable to afford the more than $4,200 bill from Citizens, shes packing up the home she bought with her late husband and lived in for 36 years. Lillard said her mother would look for a townhouse to rent between Sebastian and Sanford, where her other daughter lives.

Lillard dreads the thought of leaving herself, although its something she is considering. Shed like something she can own without a mortgage and has looked up the coast as far north as South Carolina.

Even though I dont want to leave, I need to make it more affordable to live without turning to my kids, because I refuse to turn to my kids, she said. Im not going to ask them to support me and be able to take care of myself, but how am I going to do that with those kinds of expenses?

She had to take out a cash advance of $2,000 to cover the extra costs and has already withdrawn money from her 401K. Despite the advance having zero interest, it still bothers her that shes back in debt after working so hard to get out. Lillard has cut back on spending at the grocery store and waits until items go on sale.

Its very stressful for me, very upsetting for me, but I cant even afford some of the basic needs just to get by, she said.

Life after work on hold

Bill Lincoln wants to retire.

But despite his best efforts, he cant get a new private property insurer to cover his Cape Coral home. Citizens Property Insurance Corp. wont insure him because his home value is too high. And the lapse in coverage is going to cost him.

How did he get here? Six months ago, the deadly Hurricane Ian slammed into southwest Florida. A few days after the storm passed, Lincoln filed a claim with United Property & Casualty for the damage to his home, including a roof needing replacement and a torn-down pool cage. But it would take weeks for a response and an adjuster to take a look. He was told the damage was less than his $18,000 deductible and UPC would not pay a penny.

Bill Lincoln

Lincoln then turned to a public adjuster, and he submitted a loss of nearly $300,000. UPC didnt respond. And then the insurer went insolvent.

His claim now sits with the Florida Insurance Guaranty Association, a nonprofit corporation created by the legislature in 1970 that takes over claims from insolvent insurers.

None of the companies will write me a new policy because I have a claim that is open, Lincoln said. And then the Catch-22 is, well, I cant get anybody to talk to us to close the claim.

Lincoln, 67, is at the whim of the coverage provided by his mortgage lender, which he is anticipating will cover very little for very much. Whatever provider takes him on next will likely penalize him because he will have had a break in coverage.

We buy insurance. Its a contract. So if they would just pay the claims, why would we ever use that adjuster? Lincoln said.

He earns a good living as a food safety consultant. But he worries about rising costs of living if he relied on a fixed income with his wife Tori, who is retired.

Our property taxes have increased; everyones have. Our insurance costs have increased. Our utility costs have increased. Within just a few years, all of those things have gone up significantly, Lincoln said.

Three years ago, Lincoln said he paid $3,595 for his property insurance premium. Until the expiration of his policy with United Property & Casualty Insurance on March 29, his premium was $6,281.

The Ian claim wasnt Lincolns first. He filed one for his roof after Hurricane Irma hit in 2017, but UPC said the damages did not exceed the deductible. The next year when the rainy season began, the leak in the roof led him to pay more than $55,000 for repairs. All the while, his neighbors got new roofs. Frustrated, he hired a law firm and they settled for $32,000 without a trial, and after paying the attorney he received less than half of what he paid to fix it.

Honestly, looking back, I should have changed insurance companies right then. I dont know why I didnt, he said.

Lincoln and his wife are from Nebraska, but work had taken them all over the country from Colorado to Missouri to New York and back. Ten years ago, they decided to go where they wanted to be, and that was Florida, specifically Cape Coral.

The warm weather, lake-like canals and home affordability drew them to purchase their 3,433-square-foot home that sits on a double lot. Over the years, they upgraded their home bit by bit and expanded by buying the lot next to them. Today, its a source of pride.

Were not trust fund babies or anything like that. We didnt sell a business and cash out with millions. We just work and use our money and just went from project to project to project to identify what we wanted to do, he said.

But without knowing what the future holds in terms of costs, Lincoln doesnt know what will happen and feels for those who are trying to buy a home or are on a fixed income.

I always tell people Ill die here, but now Im not sure if thats true, he said.

A big decision before hurricane season

More than half of Steve DeCerchios life has been spent living in the Sunshine State. He arrived in South Florida at age 22 after graduating from college in Pennsylvania and later bought a home in Deerfield Beach, less than a mile from the ocean.

But when Hurricane Wilma hit in 2005, his property insurance renewal the following year had nearly quadrupled, he said. Rather than pay, he decided to sell his home and relocate more than 200 miles away to Lake County.

Steve DeCerchio

Now, hes facing a difficult choice whether to take out a personal loan to get a new roof in order to remain insured or to move once again.

The insurance pushed me out of South Florida, and now the insurance crisis may push me out of Florida altogether, the 65-year-old said.

DeCerchio bought his two-bedroom, two-bathroom, 1,222 square-foot home in Grand Island outright and had money left over to make repairs and buy a car.

Here, he was closer to family in DeLand and Tallahassee than he was in South Florida. But equally as important were the costs. DeCerchio was a truck driver for Martin Brower, but injured his back and went on disability.

It was a win-win: eliminate the mortgage, cut my costs and have a newer home with a little more space and a less crowded area, he said.

Until recently, he had a policy with United Property & Casualty Insurance. He said he was paying about $1,400 a year. He filed a claim last year after a few hail storms hit the area. UPC denied the claim, and months later was deemed insolvent.

DeCerchio says that no private insurer will take him on because of his denied claim. In order to get a policy with Citizens, he said theyre asking for a four-point inspection to take a look at his structure, roof, plumbing and air conditioning, and as a result he was told to replace his 19-year-old roof. The insurance premium, at least, would cost roughly the same as he had been paying, he said, but a new rule would require him to get flood insurance.

His options are to pay more than $10,000 for a new roof to be insured with Citizens, sell his home or to go without insurance altogether. That last option is the least enticing because he doesnt want to risk a storm damaging his only assets.

Im seriously considering putting the sale sign up, taking the money and going elsewhere: going up to northern Georgia, Carolina, go out west, go anywhere. You know, hop in the van and go and see where I want to settle, he said.

He has to make a decision by 60 days after his UPC policy expired. Thats June 1, the start of hurricane season.

Hannah Morse covers consumer issues for The Palm Beach Post. Drop a line at hmorse@pbpost.com, call 561-820-4833 or follow her on Twitter @mannahhorse.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Florida property insurance crisis has homeowners on edge
Miami-Dades mayor would lose control of county police under a bill in the Legislature that bolsters the powers of the new sheriff up for election next year.

Legislation nearing floor votes in the House and Senate would block the bulk of the plan Miami-Dades mayor had to keep most of the existing police force under county control after a sheriff takes office in early 2025.

READ MORE: A new sheriff is coming, but Miami-Dade County wont turn over its police force

Though the elected office hasnt existed in Miami-Dade since the 1960s, the county will have an independent sheriff as part of a state-mandated expansion of constitutional offices approved by Florida voters in 2018.

Last year, county commissioners approved a plan by Mayor Daniella Levine Cava to continue the current arrangement of the mayor overseeing most of the 4,500-person Miami-Dade County Police Department.

Im supporting the resolution passed by the commission to preserve county policing, Levine Cava said Tuesday. Currently, shes the only county mayor in Florida who also holds the powers of sheriff, overseeing Miami-Dade police.

The Levine Cava plan relies on Miami-Dade being able to maintain policing authority outside city limits once a sheriff takes over, in the same way Tampa, Orlando and other municipalities already operate their own police departments under an elected sheriff.

The Florida Sheriffs Association tried to block Miami-Dades plan in court, claiming state law doesnt let counties treat unincorporated areas as massive cities with independent police departments.

Companion bills up for their final hearings Wednesday in the Florida House and Senate (HB 1595 and SB 1588) would wipe out that legal gray area, declaring a sheriff the sole provider of police services in a countys unincorporated areas.

If the bills become law, the result would be a new sheriff essentially taking over the entire Miami-Dade Police Department after the elections, said Bob Gualtieri, the Pinellas County sheriff who has been leading the associations fight against the county plan.

Story continues

All the functions of the Miami-Dade Police Department should go to the sheriff, Gualtieri said of the legislation in an interview Tuesday. The county doesnt keep anything.

The legislation allows Miami-Dades school system to maintain its own police force, but so far sponsors have rejected a request to let the county maintain a small police force for county facilities and security.

As written, the legislation means commissioners and the mayor would lose authority over the county police officers assigned to them as sergeant-at-arms to provide security and drive them to county events.

Were all scared of change, said Rep. Juan Fernandez-Barquin, a bill sponsor and a Republican who represents part of the Kendall area in unincorporated Miami-Dade. But the people approved this.

Levine Cava, a Democrat, has been in Tallahassee trying to water down or block the bill, and recent amendments reflect her calls for the sheriff to continue existing financial arrangements for several years, such as using the countys contracting system and keeping Miami-Dade health insurance for former MDPD employees.

I want to assure continuity for our workers, she said.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis got married at Disney World in 2009. Joe Raedle/Getty Images and AaronP/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images

The GOP-controlled legislature introduced an amendment to take away Disney's control over its land.

The amendment aims to nullify Disney's actions, in which it de-fanged a DeSantis-appointed board.

Disney hasn't said how it will respond.

The Florida legislature on Tuesday began swooping in to help Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis seize back control of the board that oversees Walt Disney World's special tax district.

GOP Sen. Blaise Ingoglia has filed an amendment saying that a district cannot comply with any land agreements made three months before a new board is installed.

The amendment aims to nullify Disney's actions from February, in which the mega-corporation stealthily rendered toothless a board DeSantis appointed to make decisions about its land.

It's not clear whether the legislative maneuver will work. Democratic State Rep Anna Eskamani, who represents Orlando, said on Twitter that the newly filed amendment "seems like it's going to run into Constitutional problems with impairing contracts."

Rep. Anna V. Eskamani  (@AnnaForFlorida) April 18, 2023

Eskamani was referring to the US Constitution's Contract Clause, which prohibits state governments from specifically legislating to interfere with private contract rights, except in emergency situations.

Disney did not immediately respond to Insider's request to comment on the amendment. Disney has previously said its move was "discussed and approved in open, noticed public forums." On Monday, the company publicized its first LGBTQ event at Disneyland in California, shortly after the DeSantis press conference.

DeSantis previewed the amendment during a press conference on Monday, when he expressed confidence that the bill he previously signed into law, giving him the authority to appoint a board to oversee Disney's district, was already sound. The legislature would pass a separate amendment as a precaution, DeSantis said.

Story continues

Members of the DeSantis-appointed board are scheduled to hold their next meeting Wednesday. At that time, DeSantis said, the group would also work separately to void the Disney loophole that stripped them of their power.

It'll consider other acts of retribution, DeSantis suggested, such as considering the possibility of building on the 40 square miles of land that borders Disney. DeSantis has floated ideas such as a rival theme park, a national park, or a state prison.

The governor has been trying to tear down a decades-long provision that gives Disney special self-governing privileges in Florida ever since the company's executives publicly pledged to work to repeal a contentious schools curriculum bill that Democrats have termed "Don't Say Gay."

Unlike rival parks Universal Studios and Sea World, Disney doesn't have to run their plans by zoning commissions or building-inspection departments. This makes their operations run more efficiently, saving them time and money.

"We had a corporation out there that was basically making their own rules," Ingoglia said Monday at DeSantis' press conference. "They were their own government. And I would argue that that is an egregious form of corporate welfare."

Members of the legislature, which has a GOP supermajority, will also introduce a bill next week that would impose new inspection rules on Disney, including on its monorail system and its rides. Large theme parks such as Disney and Universal Studios currently test the safety of their own rides, and the forthcoming bill would give the state Department of Agriculture authority to do so.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Happy spring to all. Life has been a whirlwind the past six months with home construction, being displaced by construction and trying to keep our head above water in all ways after our big house move. Without a real kitchen, which was being completely remodeled, I wasnt feeling terribly inspired since we were relying heavily on easy dinners and doing pretty much no entertaining.

Thankfully, the kitchen is now 99% completed. Were just waiting on one last detail to be installed, and its a cosmetic install. So life in our new home is starting to settle in and feel like the new normal. Were back to having friends for dinner occasionally and cooking most nights.

A few weeks ago I took a quick day trip up to Kansas City to visit my dear friend, RoxAnn, for the afternoon. The ironic thing is RoxAnn and I used to take day trips to shop in KC, and now she lives there. She made reservations at a fun, chic restaurant called The Restaurant at 1900 for lunch. We dined there and really enjoyed our food and the ambiance. She had a salmon salad that had a Mediterranean twist and included some lebana (strained yogurt) topped with a light fresh combo of veggies including fresh fennel. I chose the fish and chips, which were stuffed with beans. I would say there were beans in the batter  there wasnt anything stuffed inside the actual fish. But it was delicious nonetheless. The chips were a couple of small, crispy, fry-like yucca sticks, and there was a tasty slaw on the side. Its a restaurant Id like to return to for dinner and perhaps linger longer.

RoxAnn planned out our many quick stops including the City Market, 20 E. Fifth St., where there were fun international shops including a great Italian one and a Mediterranean one, too. Several of the stands had incredibly low prices on beautiful produce, and I bought some flatbread that was a bit different than the Syrian flatbread Im used to but still delicious, some dried currants, some pastas, and a couple of large arancini to go, and off we went to the next stop.

Christopher Elbow Chocolates at 1819 McGee St. was a treat for the eyes and taste buds. I instantly bought a dark chocolate that had caramel in it because I couldnt resist and quickly popped it into my mouth. Next, I purchased some gorgeous egg-shaped chocolates for Easter. Ive even stayed out of the box I got for my husband, but its taken serious will power.

Have you heard of Ibis Bakery? Oh my  how their loaves of bread and pastries can lure you in. I got a loaf of sourdough for my husband and an almond croissant and palmier for me. This stop, at 1684 Grand, also happened to have Messenger Coffee under the same roof, thankfully, because I needed a bit of extra caffeine for the drive home. RoxAnn bought a loaf and also a beautiful figure eight-shaped seeded bread they said was good for dipping in oil. Next time, Ill buy one of those, too.

Our last and perhaps most memorable stop was at Babas Pantry, a Palestinian deli at 1019 E 63rd St. that had so many offerings to go, I had to borrow a cooler. The interior was bright and beautifully designed, and Baba himself greeted us as we walked in the door. Then, we went to town, almost clearing out all the delicious offerings. I purchased marinated Castelvetrano olives, lebana (which they called lebne), feta dip with roasted olives, avocado hummus (Babas wife enthusiastically sold me on this), freshly fried pita chips, and some pickled turnips. Last fall, Babas Pantry was written up in Bon Appetit magazine as one of the 10 Best New Restaurants 2022.

As we checked out with our baskets overflowing, RoxAnn said, Oh, wed also like to try your lemonade. Avocado ginger and pomegranate were the available flavors, and we got one of each, of course. Off we walked with our arms loaded down by bags of Palestinian treats and lemonades, smiling from ear-to-ear. I would drive to Kansas City just to go to Babas Pantry and load up again.

Everything I bought at Babas Pantry was delightfully delicious. And the feta and roasted olive dip got my wheels turning. I found a recipe that is similar  although served warm. It comes from a blog called Food Dolls authored by two beautiful, young Egyptian women. These dolls know how to cook. Enjoy this delicious dip with pita, pita chips or crostini.

Warm Feta Dip with Marinated Olives

Dip:

8 ounces feta cheese

8 ounces whipped cream cheese

 cup leban or Greek yogurt

 cup mozzarella cheese

 cup heavy cream

Olives:

1 cup chopped Castelvetrano olives

1 cup chopped Kalamata olives

4 cloves garlic, finely grated

 bunch fresh parsley

Juice of  lemon

1 teaspoon dried oregano

 cup olive oil

1 teaspoon crushed red pepper

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Add all the dip ingredients for the warm feta dip to the bowl of a food processor. Pulse until smooth and creamy.

Transfer the mixture to a 10-inch skillet or baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until melted and bubbly. While the feta dip is baking, combine all of the ingredients for the olives in a bowl. Set aside to marinate at least 20 minutes.

Spread the marinated olives over the warm feta dip, and enjoy.

Fooddolls.com
Amphibious assault ship carries out maritime training

China Military Online) 09:15, April 18, 2023

The Type-075 amphibious assault ship Hainan attached to a landing ship flotilla under the PLA Southern Theater Command sails on the sea during a coordinated maritime training exercise on March 17, 2023. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Qiao Chenxi)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Wu Chaolan)
Andrew Mitchell, 59, waves to family in the gallery after a Franklin County jury determined that he was not guilty of murder and voluntary manslaughter in connection with the fatal shooting of 23-year-old Donna Dalton Castleberry in August 2018.

After about five hours of deliberation on Tuesday, a Franklin County jury determined that a former Columbus police vice officer was not guilty of murder and voluntary manslaughter in connection with the fatal shooting of a 23-year-old woman in August 2018.

After the verdict, the family of 23-year-old Donna Dalton Castleberry said they felt like the verdict in the case against former Columbus police officer Andrew Mitchell was a "miscarriage of justice" and they were devastated by the news.

A Franklin County jury determined that former Columbus police vice officer Andrew Mitchell, 59, was not guilty of murder and voluntary manslaughter in connection with the fatal shooting of Donna Dalton Castleberry, 23, in August 2018. Castleberry's sister, Bobbi McCalla, wept as the verdicts were read, later calling the jury's decision, "a miscarriage of justice."

"We thought the prosecutors did a really good job proving the kind of cop he was on that day in August," Castleberry's sister, Bobbi McCalla, said. "She was the victim here."

And while Mitchell is no longer facing murder charges, he will be back before a judge in about three months to answer for multiple charges filed against him in U.S. District Court.

What happens next?

Mitchell will remain in police custody. He faces nine federal charges after being accused of forcing women to perform sexual acts in exchange for their freedom and lying to federal investigators, among other accusations. Trial in that case is scheduled to begin in July 2023.

Because it would have been prejudicial to Mitchell, the information about the federal charges pending against Mitchell could not be brought before the jury in the Castleberry case in county Common Pleas Court.

Mitchell's attorney, Mark Collins, said there may be developments in whether there may be a motion to revisit Mitchell's detention in the federal case in the coming weeks.

What are the federal charges Mitchell faces?

Mitchell was indicted in 2019 on charges of deprivation of rights under color of law, essentially meaning misusing his police authority and taking away someone's rights. Those accusations are related to two women who told investigators that in 2017 Mitchell had forced them to perform sexual acts in exchange for not arresting them.

In documents connected to the federal case that were unsealed earlier this year, both women told investigators Mitchell had identified himself as a police officer when he picked them up while they were sex workers on the West Side. Mitchell asked each woman if they had active warrants for their arrest.

Story continues

Mitchell also faces charges of witness tampering, obstruction of justice and lying to FBI agents about whether he had ever engaged in sexual activity with a prostitute.

The unsealed court documents revealed federal investigators had used cellphone tracking on Mitchell's personal phone, a suspected burner phone he was using and another cellphone belonging to an unidentified third party Mitchell was alleged to have asked to reach out to possible witnesses on his behalf. The affidavit details that Mitchell's cellphone was at the homes of several witnesses or relatives of witnesses while the investigation was taking place.

Related Andrew Mitchell article: Who is former Columbus police vice officer Andrew Mitchell and why is he on trial?

In one instance, Mitchell's cellphone was at the location a witness had been dropped off at by investigators after that witness admitted to speaking with Mitchell the previous day, refused to testify before a federal grand jury and asked for a lawyer. Mitchell's cellphone was at the location within two hours of the witness being dropped off by federal investigators.

At least two other witnesses told investigators and a federal grand jury that Mitchell had spoken with them prior to their interviews, encouraging them to tell the truth but leave out that Mitchell had paid them for performing sexual acts, according to the affidavit.

The federal charges do not relate to Castleberry's death, however, the investigation into Mitchell by federal authorities began while Mitchell was on paid leave after the shooting took place.

How did people react to the murder trial verdict?

Castleberry's family said they were heartbroken and devastated by the verdict and felt justice had been denied for the 23-year-old, her family and her two children.

McCalla said the family remains hopeful that the federal case will result in a lengthy prison sentence for Mitchell to ensure "not only the safety of the women on the streets but for our family as well."

Collins said Mitchell's family was "overwhelmed" by the jury's decision and happy to see what they considered justice done in the case. He said the jury had a tough task, listening to Castleberry's final moments on audio, but did a nearly impossible task of setting aside sympathy and empathy.

"(Mitchell) had a lawful right to use force," Collins said.

Brian Steel, executive vice president of Fraternal Order of Police Capital City Lodge No. 9, which represents Columbus police and other Franklin County law enforcement officers, said in a statement Mitchell's decision to shoot Castleberry after being severely injured and choked was justified, and that the former vice officer "should have never been charged."

Steel said 10 out of 12 jurors at the first trial in April 2022  which ended in a mistrial after the jury could not reach a unanimous decision  voted not to convict. "Yet the prosecution decided to waste more taxpayers' funds on another trial that would not result in a conviction," he said.

A note from the jury in Mitchell's first trial indicated that seven jurors were leaning towards a not guilty verdict, two were leaning towards a conviction and three were torn.

"This was nothing short of a political persecution," Steel said, "and we are grateful to the jury for coming to the correct and just verdict and not being influenced by political agendas."

Franklin County prosecutors declined comment after the verdict.

What led to the murder charge?

Mitchell was working undercover in plain clothes and was in an unmarked Mitsubishi Galant on Aug. 23, 2018, when he picked up Castleberry along Sullivant Avenue on the city's West Side.

He drove to an apartment building on South Yale Avenue, parking the Galant with the passenger side of the car against the building and with the child locks engaged, trapping Castleberry inside the vehicle. Mitchell then told Castleberry she was under arrest, but did not have his police badge or radio, both of which Castleberry asked to see as proof of his identity.

More on Andrew Mitchell trial: Was shooting murder or justified? Trial of former Columbus officer Andrew Mitchell underway

Mitchell showed Castleberry his plastic police ID, some blank paperwork and his handcuffs, he testified during trial. A scuffle between Castleberry and Mitchell in the front seat of the Galant led to Mitchell being cut on the hand and what he says was an attempt by Castleberry to choke him with her foot.

Mitchell ultimately fired six shots, until his gun jammed, with three of them hitting Castleberry. She died at OhioHealth Grant Medical Center a short time later.

He faced charges of murder and voluntary manslaughter in connection with Castleberry's death. Under Ohio law, the jury could only find Mitchell guilty of one of the charges if they chose to convict.

Andrew Mitchell's defense attorneys, Mark Collins, left and Kaitlyn Stephens, address the media after a Franklin County jury determined that Mitchell, 59, was not guilty of murder and voluntary manslaughter in connection with the fatal shooting of Donna Dalton Castleberry, 23, in August 2018.

What happened during the Andrew Mitchell trial?

The jury in Mitchell's case heard evidence over about five days before beginning their deliberations Tuesday morning. The evidence included testimony from two use-of-force experts and from Mitchell himself.

The jury also heard an audio recording of the encounter, which was synced with video from the apartment building, during trial. The recording, which Mitchell made on his city-issued cell phone, captured the entire incident.

bbruner@dispatch.com

@bethany_bruner

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: What's next for ex-cop Andrew Mitchell after acquittal in murder trial?
Lyle Menendez, left, and Erik Menendez were tried and convicted in Santa Monica in the 1989 killings of their parents. (Nick Ut / Associated Press)

A former member of the boy band Menudo alleges in a new documentary series that the slain father of the Menendez brothers raped him when he was a child.

Roy Rossello's allegation comes 27 years after siblings Lyle and Erik Menendez were convicted of first-degree murder in the 1989 slayings of their parents, Jose Enrique Menendez and Mary Louise Kitty Menendez, and sentenced to life in prison.

The brothers alleged during their trial that they had been sexually, physically and emotionally abused since they were young children and said they acted out of fear and hatred when they shot their parents to death in their Beverly Hills mansion. Defense attorneys said the siblings feared their parents would kill them after they threatened to expose the alleged abuse.

In a Tuesday report about the upcoming Peacock docuseries "Menendez + Menudo: Boys Betrayed," NBC's "Today" show noted that during the trial  which captured the nation's attention in the mid-1990s  a judge deemed all testimony of sexual abuse irrelevant and inadmissible.

It remains unclear why Rossello's accusations have not surfaced until now and whether authorities will investigate them.

During the trial, prosecutors rebutted the brothers' claims of abuse, alleging they wanted their parents' millions, hated their father and included their mother as a victim because she would have been a witness.

In closing arguments, one prosecutor described Jose Menendez as an absentee father who pushed his sons to achieve, not a man who was abusing them.

The jury believed the prosecution, and the Menendez brothers are serving life sentences in prison without the possibility of parole.

Time will tell whether Rossello's new allegations of sexual assault against Jose Menendez could help the brothers' case nearly three decades later.

"I always hoped and believed that one day the truth about my dad would come out," Erik Menendez says in a clip from the series that aired on "Today." "But I never wished for it to come out like this: the result of trauma that another child has suffered."

Story continues

"We'd heard rumors that something might have happened with Menudo through the years," Lyle Menendez says in the clip. "You know that that would have made a difference at trial."

According to "Today," Rossello alleges in the docuseries that Jose Menendez molested, drugged and raped him when the then-teenager was performing with the Puerto Rican boy band Menudo and Jose Menendez was the head of RCA Records. The 51-year-old was a member of the ever-changing group from 1983 to 1986.

"That's the man here that raped me," Rossello says in the clip while pointing at a photo of the late music executive. "That's the pedophile."

"It's time for the world to know the truth," he adds.

Though Rossello's revelation is a "glimmer of hope" for the Menendez brothers, criminal defense attorney Alan Jackson told "Today" that leveraging the allegation to lobby for their exoneration and freedom would be a complex process involving a petition and another trial.

Directed by Esther Reyes, "Menendez + Menudo: Boys Betrayed" begins streaming May 2 on Peacock.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
In Kara-Balta, Kyrgyzstan, pallbearers lift a coffin holding the body of a soldier killed in Ukraine while fighting for the Russian army. The red flag of the Kyrgyz soldier's homeland is raised in the background. (Vladimir Voronin / Associated Press)

Rahmatullah, 29, lives in a two-room brick house on the outskirts of the capital city of this onetime Soviet republic in Central Asia. The road outside is pockmarked by deep puddles and mud, but behind the metal gates, his property includes a repair shop, a stable with six sheep and a sauna that he built and rents out to guests.

A trained agronomist, Rahmatullah earned the money by working in Moscow as a bricklayer, deliveryman and cabdriver. He moved to the Russian capital from Kyrgyzstan as a guest worker in 2016, saved what he could, sent the rest home to his wife, father and family  and fled in November when he was ordered to serve in the Russian army.

In Ukraine.

One of my friends has already died at the front, he told a visitor as he sat on a mattress in his living room, his legs crossed and his back against the wall. They promised him Russian citizenship if he served six months in the army.

Rahmatullah, who like several others asked that his surname not be used due to his draft status, took a deep breath. There was no way I was going to join the army, he said. So I had to leave, and quickly.

Roughly 1.2 million Kyrgyz are employed as migrant workers in Russia, with many sending back earnings to their families at home to the south, officials here say.

The remittances account for about 30% of the total gross domestic product of Kyrgyzstan, nestled among China and fellow onetime Soviet republics Tajikistan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.

For the national economy of Kyrgyzstan, the Russian labor market is vital, said Temur Umarov, a Carnegie Foundation fellow conducting research in Bishkek. If you are a guest worker in Russia and also have Russian citizenship, you will have even more advantages  for example, access to healthcare, social benefits and education.

The Osh Market area in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, where Rahmatullah now lives. (Markus Ziener / For The Times)

Ramatullah built a stable for his sheep, as well as a sauna, which he rents out to guests, with the money he earned while working in Russia. He now lives in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. (Markus Ziener / For The Times)

For Rahmatullah, that's exactly what was enticing. Just a year after moving to Moscow, he successfully applied for citizenship.

As a naturalized Russian, he had all the rights  but also all the obligations.

Story continues

Yet never did he think he would be called up for military service, he says, even when Russia invaded Ukraine early last year.

So in November, when a militiaman knocked on the door of his apartment in Moscow's Khimki district and handed him a draft notice, known as a povestka, he packed his belongings and hired a driver to take him southeast to Kazakhstan.

Near the Kazakh town of Petropavl, he says, he bribed a Kazakh border official and eventually made it to the capital, Astana. Rahmatullah was now safe  and lucky. Many others who have sought to evade Russian military service have been caught and sent to the front in Ukraine.

Gruz 200  cargo 200  are the code words for the front-line fighters who are returned to their homeland in body bags. Gulnara Derbisheva, a migration expert and former deputy social protection minister of Kyrgyzstan, has counted a dozen corpses of Kyrgyz who served in the ranks of the Russian army or with the Wagner mercenary force and have been killed in Ukraine.

From left, Gulnara Derbisheva, Gulmairam (who gave only her first name) and Gulkayir Azizbayeva look at messages Gulmairam received from her husband, who is working in Mariupol, a Ukrainian city that has been captured by Russian forces. (Markus Ziener / For The Times)

The bodies are usually flown in at night to the Russian military base in Kant, a small Kyrgyz town just over half an hour's drive east of Bishkek.

Derbisheva, a resolute woman in her mid-50s, takes care of Kyrgyz who are working in Russia and have gotten into trouble there. Problems include criminal activity, mostly drug trafficking or robbery. Others contact her because they are seeking to avoid military service and don't know how. Derbisheva frequently travels to Russia and takes care of Kyrgyz workers there in her capacity as representative of the Kyrgyz Trade Union of Migrants.

We know of 12 dead, but very likely there are more, Derbisheva said. We also hear from relatives that quite a few Kyrgyz are fighting in Bakhmut, the scene of fierce battles in eastern Ukraine.

The central government in Bishkek led by President Sadyr Japarov, a populist who came to power after a 2020 revolution, has remained mum on the issue. Dependent on Russian energy supplies, security guarantees and, not least, the labor market, Japarov has avoided any comment that might be seen as a provocation.

You don't talk about the big brother, said Derbisheva.

Moscow's state broadcasters dominate the airwaves and narrative; Kyrgyz television programs, which also largely steer clear of big politics, hardly play a role.

Russian propaganda is intense  and it works, said Ulan Nogoibaev, deputy head of the Council on Migration at the Kyrgyz parliament.

Support for Russia's invasion of Ukraine is particularly strong in Kyrgyzstan's rural areas, especially in the southwest, in regions like Batken or Osh  where the ideas of the liberal West seem a world away.

In fact, we have a lost generation, Nogoibaev said. Those Kyrgyz who grew up in Russia or lived there for a long time hardly have any relationship with their homeland anymore.

Some, like Nazar, have been reluctant to leave Moscow even after receiving draft notices. The 35-year-old construction worker tossed the summons and continued to work until he was stopped during an ID check in the Moscow subway a few weeks later.

He was fined about $65 and ordered to report immediately to a voyenkomat, a military placement office.

At that point, he realized there was no more time to waste.

I didn't want to go to war, Nazar now says. I didn't want to fight.

To avoid attracting attention, Nazar, who had lived in Moscow from 2016 to 2022, headed for Kazakhstan with a single piece of luggage.

It was a mistake to take the Russian passport, he said in hindsight. Although Russia relaxed its citizenship laws in 2020 and now accepts the possession of a second citizenship, a person who also holds a Russian passport is to the authorities first and foremost one thing: Russian. As a consequence, they have to serve in the army.

Some hope to go back to Russia one day, once the war is over and the draft is ended. Or they don't return to Kyrgyzstan at all.

In November, Gulkayir Azizbayeva, 39, departed Moscow with her five children. Husband Begaly remained and has since hardly sent her any money.

She and the children live just a stone's throw away from Rahmatullah in a tiny cottage consisting of one room and a kitchen. The room is both a bedroom and workplace. Her sewing machine table stands next to a bunk bed, and clothes pile up on a chair next to it.

Seamstress Gulkayir Azizbayeva's work area in her home in Bishkek. (Markus Ziener / For The Times)

She earns a little money as a seamstress  and has to budget carefully.

Azizbayeva wants her husband to come back. But he wants to stay. And they have argued often and fiercely.

He has signed up as a volunteer at the nearby voyenkomat, and hopes to receive a passport after six months of military service. Thus far, he's been rejected because of his age  53.

But the longer the war continues, he thinks, the better his chances are of being accepted.

He believes in the promise, Azizbayeva says  and the money. The Russian army pays volunteers about $2,600 a month.

He says if he falls at the front, I will get Russian citizenship, Azizbayeva said. But that's not what I'm after at all. I just want him to come home.

What Azizbayeva even knows of her husband these days she learns from her eldest son, Ryzbek, who still talks to his father on the phone.

He doesn't listen to me anymore, Azizbayeva said matter-of-factly as she sat at the dining table in the kitchen.

Just then, her friend Gulmairam knocked on the door, a smartphone in her hand. Every day, she makes a video call to her husband, Nurbek, who also remained in Russia.

He's doing construction work in Mariupol, a Ukrainian city nearly totally destroyed in Russian attacks and now occupied by Russia. He gets $1,550 a month, Gulmairam said.

A smile flits across her face.

He wants us all to come to Mariupol, she said. He believes it's a nice place to live.

Ziener is a special correspondent.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Fox and the voting equipment company Dominion reached a $787.5m settlement in a closely watched defamation lawsuit, ending a dispute over whether the network and its parent company knowingly broadcast false and outlandish allegations that Dominion was involved in a plot to steal the 2020 election.

The settlement came before scheduled opening statements and after an unexpected lengthy delay on Tuesday afternoon just after the jury was sworn in. Neither party immediately disclosed the terms of the settlement other than the dollar amount, and attorneys for Dominion declined to answer questions about whether it requires Fox to issue a retraction or a formal apology.

Related: Succession anxiety: bombshell claims about Rupert Murdoch and family

The parties have resolved their case, Judge Eric Davis told jurors on Tuesday afternoon before excusing them from the courtroom.

In a press conference outside the courthouse, the Dominion attorney Justin Nelson said the more than $787m represented vindication and accountability. The settlement amount is less than half of the $1.6bn Dominion demanded in its lawsuit.

Truth matters, he said. Lies have consequences. The truth does not know red or blue, he continued. People across the political spectrum can and should disagree on issues, even of the most profound importance. But for our democracy to endure another 250 years and hopefully much longer, we must share a commitment to facts.

In a statement, Fox said the settlement reflected its continued commitment to the highest journalistic standards.

We are hopeful that our decision to resolve this dispute with Dominion amicably, instead of the acrimony of a divisive trial, allows the country to move forward from these issues, the statement said.

Opening statements were scheduled to start on Tuesday after a lunch break, but the judge and jurors did not return to the room until close to 4pm. During the more than two-hour delay, attorneys huddled and left the courtroom to convene in adjacent meeting rooms.

Story continues

After returning to the courtroom, Davis thanked the jurors for their service, and called the efforts by the lawyers on both sides the best lawyering Ive had, ever in his career on the bench since 2010.

The anticipated six-week jury trial was originally set to begin on Monday, but Davis, the judge overseeing the case, postponed the start of trial by a day as the sides worked to reach a settlement agreement.

The trial in Wilmington, Delaware, was set to be a blockbuster media trial. Rupert Murdoch, the 92-year-old chief executive of Fox, was called to testify in the case, along with top Fox talent including Tucker Carlson, Sean Hannity, Jeanine Pirro and Maria Bartiromo.

The lawsuit was seen as one of the most aggressive efforts to hold Fox, or any actor, accountable for spreading the lie that the 2020 election was stolen. It was a lie that led to threats against election officials across the country, and ultimately helped fuel the violent attack on the US Capitol on 6 January. Nine deaths have been linked to the event.

Though the case was settled, Dominion had unearthed a stunning trove of internal communications from Fox laying bare how top talent and hosts knew the outlandish claims about Dominion and a stolen election were false. The extensive messages offered a remarkable insight into how some of the most powerful hosts in America did not buy the allegations they were broadcasting to their audience each night.

Dominion, a relatively obscure company until the 2020 election, sought $1.6bn in damages in the case. It challenged repeated claims made on Foxs air after the general election that Dominion switched votes, paid government kickbacks and was founded in Venezuela to rig elections for Hugo Chavez.

In the press conference on Tuesday, Dominions CEO, John Poulos, called the settlement historic because of Foxs admission that it was telling lies.

Throughout this process, we have sought accountability, he said. We believe the evidence brought to light through this case underscores the consequences of spreading lies. Truthful reporting in the media is essential to our democracy.

Even before trial, Davis had already concluded that Foxs claims about Dominion were false. The evidence developed in this civil proceeding demonstrates that is CRYSTAL clear that none of the Statements relating to Dominion about the 2020 election are true, he wrote in a ruling earlier this month.

The question that would have been before the jury was whether Fox committed actual malice in airing the claims. That required Dominion to show whether key decision makers were aware the claims were false or acted with reckless disregard for the truth.

Fox still faces several legal battles related to its decision to broadcast false claims. Smartmatic, another voting equipment company, is suing the company for $2.7bn. Abby Grossberg, a former Fox employee who worked for Bartiromo and Carlson, is also suing the company, alleging she was coerced into giving misleading testimony.

The network also faces a separate lawsuit from a shareholder who is seeking damages and argues that executives breached their fiduciary duty to the company by causing false claims about the election to be broadcast.

During the press conference, Stephen Shackelford, an attorney who was set to give opening arguments for Dominion on Tuesday, said that the company would continue seeking accountability.

Money is accountability, he said. We got that today from Fox. But were not done yet. Weve got some other people who have some accountability coming for them.
Juan Williams wrote an op-ed published in The Hill this week calling for an investigation into allegations of corruption against Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas. Photo by Steven Ferdman/Getty Images and AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File

Juan Williams called for his friend, Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, to be investigated.

Williams' op-ed in The Hill this week comes amid a spate of corruption allegations against the justice.

"The facts now show Thomas has damaged the court," Williams wrote.

Juan Williams, a political analyst at Fox News, as well as a decades-long friend to Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, expressed his support f0r an investigation into the conservative justice following a recent spate of corruption allegations.

Thomas is facing renewed scrutiny following the revelation last week that the he sold his childhood home to GOP mega-donor Harlan Crow  and never disclosed the sale.

The ProPublica report came days after the outlet first reported that Thomas has been accepting and failing to disclose several luxury vacations from Crow for years. While Thomas defended the undisclosed trips by citing an ill-defined "personal hospitality" exemption included in disclosure requirements, the real estate revelation has thus far been harder to explain away.

CNN reported on Monday that Thomas plans to amend his financial disclosure forms to accurately reflect the real estate deal, but four ethics law experts told ProPublica last week that the justice likely violated a federal disclosure law that was enacted in the wake of Watergate, sparking public pressure for an official investigation into Thomas' financial dealings, as well as growing calls for his resignation and impeachment.

In a Monday column for The Hill, Williams echoed such appeals, arguing that if true, the recent reports justify a probe into Thomas' business dealings in order to assuage the public's trust in the top court.

"The real problem is that none of us can ever again get away from wondering," Williams wrote of Thomas' "apparent lack of transparency."

Story continues

The public's belief in the Supreme Court's legitimacy was already at an all-time low prior to the Thomas allegations, following a series of controversies and unpopular decisions.

In his op-ed, Williams, who is a rare liberal voice at the conservative Fox, acknowledged difficulty in writing about Thomas, his longtime friend, as he recounted a relationship between the two of 40 years that included an appearance by Thomas at his birthday party, as well as interactions with the columnist's children.

"To me, Justice Thomas has always represented the best ideals of what black men  like the two of us  could achieve in modern America with hard work and thick skin," Williams wrote.

"But if these recent stories are true about how he allowed himself to become captive of a far-right legal coterie, he must be sanctioned for the sake of the court's reputation and, yes, for the good of the country," he added.

Williams argued that Thomas' hardline conservative rulings throughout his 31-year career on the bench fall in line with the interests of a "rich, reclusive Republican donor," referring to Crow, who "ingratiated himself to Thomas" via fancy trips and personal favors.

Crow's ongoing generosity perhaps pushed Thomas further toward extreme conservatism, Williams wrote, creating a bubble around the justice of right-wing activists.

"That's why news of his hidden financial deals now overwhelms questions about his judicial rulings," Williams wrote.

He noted that Thomas has thus far avoided any punishment for "bringing disgrace on himself, and two Supreme Court experts told Insider last week that the justice is unlikely to face any real repercussions, given the lack of oversight over the high court, which essentially governs itself.

Talk of Thomas being impeached is also a nonstarter, legal experts told Insider, given the extremely partisan political landscape.

"But the facts now show Thomas has damaged the court," Williams wrote.

Read the original article on Business Insider
It has been nearly three decades since Americans were glued to their television sets as defense counsel for O.J. Simpson told jurors, "If (the glove) don't fit, you must acquit."

Last year, footage of testimony from the defamation trial involving actors Johnny Depp and Amber Heard divisively forced its way in front of a massive audience on social media. And just a month ago, millions tuned in to see testimony in actress Gwyneth Paltrow's trial over a skiing collision.

But when the top television personalities for the nation's most-watched cable news network are put under oath and grilled in a billion-dollar defamation trial in Wilmington this week, there will be no live video stream, no images from the courtroom and no audio rebroadcasts for podcasts and nightly news segments.

In fact, anyone rebroadcasting audio or images from the proceeding risks what officials described as "serious court sanction," according to court officials. The court has set up a live audio line where the public can call in to listen, a first for the local Superior Court.

"I have gone as far as I can go with respect to access," said presiding Judge Eric Davis.

JURY SELECTION: Delaware residents will decide outcome of Fox News defamation case. Trial to begin Tuesday

What testimony is expected and where to listen

Dominion Voting Systems filed suit against Fox News and its parent corporation two years ago claiming that the conservative media giant knowingly allowed its television guests, the likes of Rudy Giuliani and Sidney Powell, to spread outlandish lies claiming the Dominion's voting machines had fraudulently caused Donald Trump's 2020 election loss.

The result of the trial could have implications for American news reporting and political discourse as Fox News attorneys claim its anchors were legitimately reporting the statements of newsworthy figures about important matters of the day.

And while it isn't a trial about sex or murder, the case revolves around lies aimed at shaking confidence in the American electoral system, and given the people involved, trial testimony will generate massive interest.

Story continues

Fox News personalities that are paid millions to address public affairs for a nationwide audience each night are expected to be questioned about the extent they knew their guests were spreading lies aimed at convincing their viewers the election was stolen.

Tucker Carlson hosts a highly rated conservative opinion show on Fox News.

Fox News executives, people who have shaped conservative politics and discourse for decades, are expected to be questioned about whether profits overrode their willingness to question lies aimed at benefitting Trump  lies Dominion attorneys argue that the news organization's conservative customer base was eager to hear.

Most people will hear about what happens through a small army of media reporters expected to descend upon the Wilmington courthouse where the trial is to begin Tuesday.

The court, a state-government arm of Delaware, is making available a live video stream for reporters stationed in an overflow room, as well as a live audio feed that can be accessed via a telephone number. The audio line is "for the public and media to increase access to court proceedings," officials said.

The call-in line is a first for the court hosting the trial. The number hasn't been highly publicized by the state, though it can be found on the court's website. Davis and court officials have emphasized that any rebroadcast of the audio is strictly prohibited.

The public line is (774) 258-6500. Midway through the first day, the call-in line was at capacity and court officials added additional lines: (617) 944-8933, (719) 300-3761, (206) 806-9395.

LIVE UPDATES: Opening statements begin in Fox News defamation trial held in Delaware

Request to rebroadcast denied

Leading up to Tuesday's opening arguments, media organizations filed a last-minute intervention seeking permission to record and rebroadcast raw audio streamed from the courtroom.

The media entities  which include USA Today, Delaware Online/The News Journal, The New York Times, ProPublica and others  argued that the prohibition on rebroadcasting audio effectively cuts off access to members of the public that cannot tune into the live feed because of work, school or other limitations on their daily life.

Rebroadcast would allow the public the ability to witness the trial proceedings without relying on a retelling or reinterpretation by media professionals, the organizations reasoned.

Superior Court Judge Eric Davis

The voices, the certainty, the hesitancy of witnesses and the force of the argument of lawyers will emerge from the recordings in ways quoted words on a page simply cannot demonstrate, an attorney representing the media outlets wrote in the court request.

In court filings, Fox News asked Davis to reject the request, arguing it was lodged too late and rebroadcast "risks invading privacy interests; distracting witnesses, jurors, and other trial participants; and compromising the integrity of the trial proceedings."

DOMINION V FOX:Jan. 6 insurrection not relevant in Fox defamation trial, Delaware judge rules

Davis did not elaborate on his reasons for rejecting the request. He said he had consulted with other Superior Court judges and emphasized that the overflow-room video feed and dial-in audio line are unprecedented access in his court.

Delaware court tradition of no cameras

The ruling is in line with judicial tradition in Delaware.

Only the state's Supreme Court hosts a video livestream of its proceedings. Those are typically focused legal debates by attorneys that do not involve the presentation of evidence or jurors. Nearly 20 years ago, the courts briefly engaged a pilot program to allow cameras in civil proceedings that did not involve a jury.

The Fox News trial is the first time that Delaware Superior Court has allowed audio of court proceedings to travel beyond the courtroom gallery. Last year, officials set up a dial-in line for a Chancery Court case involving Elon Musk, the only other such feed in the Delaware courts' recent history.

As a general rule, Delaware does not allow cameras in its courtrooms, and audio recording of court proceedings is strictly prohibited.

Those strict protections sometimes bleed into other aspects of public access. Members of the public are turned away from most state courts when they try to enter with their cellphones. In recent times, officials for Delaware's Superior Court have delayed or sometimes outright rejected public access to evidentiary exhibits presented in murder trials, newsworthy items higher courts have ruled should be public.

The Dominion Voting Systems v. Fox News trial will be held at the Leonard L. Williams Justice Center in Wilmington.

Typically, if one wants to find out, word for word, what happened in a Delaware lower court proceeding after its conclusion, they must order an official transcript that can take several days and cost hundreds of dollars for a several-hour-long proceeding.

Delaware Superior Court officials, including Chief Justice Collins J. Seitz, did not respond to an invitation to discuss or comment on court policies.

A longstanding debate over access

Delaware is not unique in not allowing cameras or audio recorders into its court proceedings.

Federal courts generally prohibit such access. The U.S. Supreme Court has not enshrined any absolute right or prohibitions to audio and visual recording of court proceedings so it's left largely up to states or individual jurisdictions to decide how much access is allowed.

That's why viewers were able to see television stars Johnny Depps and Amber Heard's dueling testimony in their defamation case in Virginia but there isn't video of Trump pleading "not guilty" in a Manhattan courtroom earlier this month.

And it is a debate that has been around for decades.

RECENT: Fox News sanctioned by Delaware judge for withholding evidence in $1.6B defamation trial

On one side, there is concern that cameras will sully the process in different ways.

Cameras could be a distraction to jurors, they could change the way a witness acts and is perceived by jurors, and a grand-standing attorney could make what should be a terse, professional proceeding into a made-for-television drama.

On the other side is the argument that the public should be able to see the mechanics of justice unfiltered by professional media organizations.

Perception can be important in court: How a witness appears, the inflection of a judge's voice or the precise phrasing of a statement can get lost in a media rewrite or differ from one journalist's account to another.

Steve Wood spent three decades as a prosecutor in Delaware courts and is an instructor for the National Institute of Trial Advocacy. He reasoned that courts are alongside legislatures as the most important public spaces and so the public should see what is happening there.

Technology and expertise in designing such access would mitigate the downsides, said Wood, who is a partner at the Wilmington office of McCarter & English. And on the eve of the most-watched Delaware trial in decades, he argued cameras would give a wider audience a window into how "professional and rigorously fair" Delaware's court system is.

"That is not something to be afraid of," Wood said. "That is something to be proud of."

Contact Xerxes Wilson at (302) 324-2787 or xwilson@delawareonline.com. Follow @Ber_Xerxes on Twitter.

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Fox News defamation trial: Why you won't be able to watch it live
Fox News has agreed to settle the $1.6 billion defamation lawsuit filed against the network over its broadcast of lies aimed at undercutting public confidence in the outcome of the 2020 presidential election.

The network and Dominion Voting Systems agreed to a $787.5 million settlement Tuesday, according to Dominion attorney Justin Nelson, just as attorneys were set to outline their case to jurors ahead of trial testimony in what has been the most closely watched media trial in decades.

"The truth matters," Nelson said. "Lies have consequences."

Details of the settlement were not immediately available. Dominion sued Fox News and its parent corporation in 2021, claiming the network knowingly broadcast lies being perpetuated by former President Donald Trump and his attorneys as he clung to power in the months after his 2020 election loss.

The Denver-based voting technology company said the lies caused more than $1 billion in damage and led to its employees receiving threats.

Last month, presiding Judge Eric Davis ruled that it was "crystal" clear that allegations broadcast by Fox News and claiming that Dominion's technology was responsible for fraudulently flipping the election were false. That left it up to a jury to decide whether Fox News knew those allegations were false, which triggers legal liability.

Money is accountability and we got that today from Fox, said Dominion lawyer Stephen Shackelford after news of the settlement.

Sean Hannity, Tucker Carlson, Rupert Murdoch: Settlement came just before high-profile testimony

This artist sketch depicts Dominion Voting Systems attorney Justin Nelson, standing left, and Fox News attorney Daniel Webb, standing at right, speaking to Judge Eric Davis before finishing jury selection in Delaware Superior Court Tuesday, April 18, 2023, in Wilmington.

The settlement came hours before trial testimony expected to feature a parade of high-profile Fox News personalities and executives, including Sean Hannity, Tucker Carlson, Rupert Murdoch and former House Speaker Paul Ryan.

Fox had denied all wrongdoing, saying this lawsuit is an attack on the First Amendment. The legal team also argued its hosts were covering an important news story. During pretrial hearings, the legal team had taken hits  including the judge sanctioning them and telling them they had a credibility problem.

Story continues

The outcome could have had major implications for misinformation and freedom of the press.

Leading up to the trial, some legal experts remarked how strong of a case Dominion had. Its uncommon for defamation cases to make it to trial and even rarer for a plaintiff to prove actual malice.

Dominion would have needed to prove to a Delaware jury that Fox knowingly published false information about Dominion or recklessly disregarded information showing that the claims were not true.

Tucker Carlson said he hates Trump 'passionately': Takeaways from Dominion-Fox News lawsuit documents

Fox News statement about Dominion settlement

Fox lawyers did not answer reporters questions following the news of the settlement. The network, in a statement, said it acknowledges "the Courts rulings finding certain claims about Dominion to be false."

"This settlement reflects FOXs continued commitment to the highest journalistic standards," the statement said. "We are hopeful that our decision to resolve this dispute with Dominion amicably, instead of the acrimony of a divisive trial, allows the country to move forward from these issues.

EXPLAINER: The Fox News defamation trial begins in Delaware. Here's what you need to know

How the trial ended before it began

The settlement came hours after the court completed selecting a jury and minutes before attorneys were to deliver their opening statements after a lunch break Tuesday.

But the jury was never brought into the courtroom, and those arguments never happened.

Instead, the judge never took the bench. Over the subsequent three-hour delay, attorneys came and went from the backroom as a small army of media reporters speculated what was the cause of the delay. Eventually, Davis, the judge, reentered the courtroom, summoned the jury and announced the case had been settled.

He thanked jurors for their service and attorneys for their work.

While the settlement avoids what was expected to be a six-week trial proceeding, it comes after years of litigation that featured a steady drip of embarrassing revelations derived from depositions, as well as evidence that included text messages and emails sent by Fox News personalities and leadership.

Heading into trial, Fox has already experienced several setbacks. Davis rejected Foxs motion to throw out the case and sanctioned its legal team for withholding evidence, including recordings of a former Fox producer that involved Trump associates.

And there are still more lawsuits pending.

Dominion has sued One American News Network and Newsmax. Rudy Giuliani, Sidney Powell and Mike Lindell, all Trump associates, have been slapped with defamation lawsuits. Fox is also facing a defamation lawsuit from Smartmatic, a voting machine company, that has made similar allegations to Dominions.

Showdown: Fox News, Republican Party co-host August debate with Donald Trump and 2024 rivals

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Fox News lawsuit: Dominion, Fox News strike $787.5M settlement
Photo of press conference



Dominion Voting Systems attorney, Justin Nelson, addresses the press outside Delawares New Castle County Courthouse.

Dominion Voting Systems and Fox News have reached a settlement in the companies two-year-long defamation dispute. The agreement was announced by the cases presiding judge in court on Tuesday afternoon, according to multiple reportscoming just hours after jury selection was completed. The decision by both parties to settle moves what couldve been a landmark case for media and misinformation out of the courtroom, and thus out of the public eye.



The settlement grants Dominion a $787.6 million payout, less than half of the $1.6 billion in damages the company had initially demanded, according to the New York Times.

Read more

We are pleased to have reached a settlement of our dispute with Dominion Voting Systems. We acknowledge the courts rulings finding certain claims about Dominion to be false. This settlement reflects Foxs continued commitment to the highest journalistic standards. We are hopeful that our decision to resolve this dispute with Dominion amicably, instead of the acrimony of a divisive trial, allows the country to move forward from these issues, Fox News said in a statement to the Times and Reuters. Dominions CEO, John Poulos, reportedly called the settlement historic.

Dominion, which supplied voting machines and software to dozens of states during the 2020 U.S. election, first sued Fox News in 2021. In that 443-page complaint, the voting tech company alleged that the media outlet knowingly broadcast multiple debunked conspiracy theories and other disinformation about its machines, which amounted to defamation and libel.

And for a time, it seemed like the case might go to trialpotentially compelling Fox News bigwigs like Rupert Murdoch to testify about their networks conduct. Just a few weeks ago, Delaware Superior Court Judge Eric Davis ruled that resolving the case would require a jury because Dominion hadnt clearly proved libelous intent. Simultaneously Judge Davis squashed Foxs attempts to weasel out of the suit entirely. In a pre-trial hearing earlier this month, Davis said Fox wouldnt be able to defend itself under the umbrella of newsworthiness.

Story continues

But just yesterday, the trial was delayed for settlement talks. And now, were here. There will be no trial. There will be no public testimony. Dominions complaint has been sated with dollar bills. Though, Fox News hasnt yet escaped all legal scrutiny for its 2020 election coverage and promotion of stop the steal conspiracies. Smartmatic, another voting machine maker, still has an outstanding lawsuit against Fox. That pending case could be even bigger, as Smartmatic is seeking $2.7 billion in damages.

This article is part of a developing story. Our writers and editors will be updating this page as new information is released. Please check back again in a few minutes to see the latest updates. Meanwhile, if you want more news coverage, check out our tech, science, or io9 front pages. And you can always see the most recent Gizmodo news stories at gizmodo.com/latest.



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A courtroom sketch shows Dominion Voting Systems attorney Justin Nelson (standing left) and Fox News attorney Daniel Webb speaking to Judge Eric Davis before finishing jury selection in Delaware Superior Court in Wilmington, April 18, 2023. Elizabeth Williams via AP

Dominion Voting Systems and Fox News announced on Tuesday afternoon that the companies had reached a settlement, just hours after the start of a landmark defamation trial which would have determined the consequences of news organizations broadcasting conspiracy theories and false claims.

The announcement comes after the highly anticipated trial was set to begin with opening arguments on Tuesday morning. But after the jury was sworn in and had a lunch recess, there was an unexplained two-hour delay waiting for the opening arguments to start. Shortly before 4 p.m. ET, the judge brought in the jury to announce that both parties had reached a settlement.

The parties have resolved their case, Delaware Superior Court Judge Eric Davis told the jurors before dismissing them. The terms of the settlement remain unknown as of Tuesday afternoon.

In a statement sent to the New York Times after the settlement was announced, Fox Corporation said that it was pleased to have reached a settlement of our dispute with Dominion Voting Systems. We acknowledge the courts rulings finding certain claims about Dominion to be false. This settlement reflects Foxs continued commitment to the highest journalistic standards. We are hopeful that our decision to resolve this dispute with Dominion amicably, instead of the acrimony of a divisive trial, allows the country to move forward from these issues.

Outside the courtroom, Dominions lawyer, Justin Nelson, added that the truth matters, and stated that the settlement with Fox was for $787.5 million. Lies have consequences, he said.

In this case, Dominion was seeking $1.6 billion in compensatory damages in the lawsuit against Fox News and its parent company, Fox Corporation, which was filed in March 2021.

In the lawsuit, Dominion alleged that Fox News hosts and executives promoted and broadcasted false claims and conspiracy theories that Dominion voting machines had rigged the 2020 election in favor of President Joe Biden. The theory had been widely promoted by former president Donald Trump .

Story continues

In the complaint , lawyers for Dominion alleged that Fox hosts and executives knew that the claims made about the voting machines were untrue, and argued that Fox sold a false story of election fraud in order to serve its own commercial purposes, severely injuring Dominion in the process. Judge Davis had already ruled in a pretrial hearing that the statements made about Dominions voting machines relating to the 2020 election were false, meaning Dominions lawyers would have been tasked simply with proving Fox knew the statements were false or that the company acted with a reckless disregard for whether the claims were true or false.

In the complaint against Fox, Dominion alleged that even after Fox was confronted with the direct facts disproving its lies about Dominion, the company refused to retract its false and defamatory statements, thereby further demonstrating its actual malice in publishing them.

The truth matters, Dominions complaint said. Lies have consequences.

Yuki Iwamura / AP

In defense, Fox's lawyers had argued that they aired the claims of rigged voting machines because they came from a sitting president and people close to him and thus were newsworthy.

Fox maintained that Fox News fulfilled its commitment to inform fully and comment fairly, adding that, Some hosts viewed the Presidents claims skeptically; others viewed them hopefully; all recognized them as profoundly newsworthy.

The network claimed that it covered Dominions denials and gave the company opportunities to tell its side. In short, Fox News did exactly what the First Amendment protects: It ensured that the public had access to newsmakers and newsworthy information that would help foster uninhibited, robust, and wide-open debate on rapidly developing events of unparalleled importance, the court filing by Foxs lawyers stated.

Dominion Voting Systems ballot-counting machines are lined up at a Torrance County warehouse during testing of election equipment with local candidates and partisan officers in Estancia, New Mexico, Sept. 29, 2022. Andres Leighton / AP

If the trial, which was expected to last six weeks, had gone ahead, it would have been up to a jury of 12 people in Delaware to decide whether Fox was financially liable for broadcasting the false claims about the voting machines.

According to the Associated Press , Fox hosts Tucker Carlson and Sean Hannity and Executive Chair Rupert Murdoch were among those expected to testify. Many also believed that former host Lou Dobbs would also have taken the stand.

On Tuesday morning, before the opening arguments were set to begin, the judge authorized a special master to investigate Foxs handling of discovery. According to ABC News, the order stated that the investigation by the special master would "include a determination" of whether Fox News and Fox Corp "complied with their discovery obligations" in providing information relevant to the trial.

Only a few hours earlier, NBC News had reported that exFox News producer Abby Grossberg said that she had found more evidence relevant to the trial. She also said that lawyers for Fox had ignored repeated reminders about the additional evidence in her possession and did not search it during a court-ordered discovery, according to NBC .

Discovery in the trial had already proved troubling for Fox. In March of this year, a cache of internal messages was made public that showed Fox executives, producers, and pundits privately disagreeing with Trumps false claims that the 2020 election was stolen, including a series of text messages that disparaged Trump even as Fox figureheads were publicly supporting the president. They showed that many within Fox News, including hosts Hannity, Carlson, and Laura Ingraham, seemed not to believe the false election claims, even though they pushed the allegations on their shows.

Though the Dominion trial might be over, not the end of Fox News legal problems. In 2021, Smartmatic, a global technology company from London, also filed a $2.7 billion defamation suit against Fox News and Fox Business host Maria Bartiromo, Trumps former lawyer Rudy Giuliani, and Dobbs.

The lawsuit came after the network broadcasted a series of false claims concerning Smartmatic voting machines and the 2020 election. Fox News has disputed the damages claims and defended its coverage, saying in a statement, "there is nothing more newsworthy than covering the president of the US and his lawyers making allegations. Around a month ago, the New York State Supreme Court in Manhattan gave the go-ahead for the Smartmatic case to proceed.

After the Dominion settlement was announced, Smartmatic released a statement, per NBC, adding that "Dominions litigation exposed some of the misconduct and damage caused by Foxs disinformation campaign. Smartmatic will expose the rest. Smartmatic remains committed to clearing its name, recouping the significant damage done to the company, and holding Fox accountable for undermining democracy."

More on this
Fox News avoided one of the highest-profile defamation trials in history Tuesday by reaching a $787.5-million settlement with Dominion Voting Systems, the company that accused the conservative channel of smearing its reputation in the weeks after the 2020 election.

The extraordinary settlement  one of the largest financial settlements in a defamation case  came on the same day the trial began in Delaware Superior Court.

The jury would have determined whether Fox News acted with malice by deliberately airing false statements about the voting machine maker. Dominion was seeking $1.6 billion in damages.

In addition to the monetary damages, the network in a statement also conceded that it had aired falsehoods about the Denver-based company.

"We acknowledge the Courts rulings finding certain claims about Dominion to be false," Fox News said in the statement.

However, Fox News won't have to apologize for spreading false claims, nor will its anchors be required to read any contrite statements or retractions on the air, according to a person familiar with the agreement who was not authorized to comment.

Justin Nelson, an attorney for Dominion, said in remarks outside the courthouse that the staggering monetary settlement "represents vindication and accountability; lies have consequences."

Nelson added: "The truth does not know red or blue. People across the political spectrum can and should disagree on issues even of the most profound importance. But for our democracy to endure for another 250 years and hopefully much longer, we must share a commitment to facts."

The agreement was announced after a 12-person jury and 12 alternates were chosen in the court's morning session. After a 90-minute lunch break that stretched into three hours, Delaware Superior Court Judge Eric Davis returned to the bench to say that "the parties have resolved the case."

Many legal analysts were surprised that the closely watched case had not been settled before trial, given the potential legal and reputational damage to Fox News.

Story continues

The resolution means Fox News avoids a media spectacle at the Leonard Williams Justice Center in Wilmington, Del. More than 50 working journalists have been gathered for the trial with TV outlets stationed under tents outside the courthouse.

The conservative network's biggest stars, including Sean Hannity, Tucker Carlson and Maria Bartiromo, and top executives such as 92-year-old Fox Corp. Chairman Rupert Murdoch and his son Lachlan, had been expected to be called to the witness stand.

Fox News entered the court proceeding at a disadvantage. Davis ruled March 31 that on-air statements about Dominion made by network hosts and their guests were false.

Davis also shot down Fox's assertion that its reporting on false allegations was justified because they were made by former President Trump and were therefore newsworthy.

Just because someone is newsworthy doesnt mean you can defame someone, Davis said at an April 11 pretrial hearing.

Court filings in the case provided a glimpse into the inner workings of Fox News, with emails and texts showing how executives and hosts tried to balance their own disbelief of Trump's allegations with their perceived need to mollify his supporters who habitually watch the network.

Depositions depicted a highly decentralized operation where management often did little to control what its on-air talent said.

Dominion accused Fox News of amplifying false charges made by Trump's attorneys Sidney Powell and Rudolph W. Giuliani that the company's machines manipulated votes to help elect Joe Biden president.

There was no evidence of widespread voter fraud or any wrongful actions by Dominion. Claims to the contrary were fact-checked by some Fox News journalists and the network's own research department, known as the "brain room."

Dominion said Fox News acted out of fear that the MAGA faithful would tune out and move to upstart conservative network Newsmax, which was gaining viewership at the time.

While media coverage of Dominion's case was voluminous and largely negative for Fox News, it did little to damage the network's standing with its audience. It remains the most-watched cable news network, well ahead of CNN and MSNBC, according to Nielsen data.

However, the network's standing in journalism circles has been diminished by the scandal. The media industry will be watching to see if Murdoch makes any significant changes to Fox News management or its lineup of on-air talent in reaction to the public humiliation his company has experienced.

Such moves could take awhile as Fox News management is averse to the public perception that Murdoch is responding to outside pressure.

Fox News also is facing a $2.7-billion defamation lawsuit by Smartmatic, the voting software company that Trumps lawyers falsely accused of manipulating vote counts in the 2020 presidential election. Smartmatic has accused Fox News and three of its on-air hosts  Bartiromo, Lou Dobbs and Jeanine Pirro  of presenting disinformation on their programs.

Stuart Brotman, a journalism professor at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, said the settlement  far exceeding the $177 million paid to Beef Products Inc. by Walt Disney Co. in 2017 over an ABC News report  means Smartmatic is likely to see a substantial payday as well.

Fox News also faces a gender discrimination lawsuit from a fired producer, Abby Grossberg, who also claims she was coerced to give misleading answers in her deposition testimony for the Dominion case.

"The settlement shows that they [Fox News] don't have an appetite for having their people go on trial," Brotman said. "They are going to be writing more checks."

Fox News is no stranger to paying out settlements as a means to make legal problems and scandals go away.

The company paid $20 million in 2017 to former anchor Gretchen Carlson, whose sexual harassment lawsuit against founding Fox News chief Roger Ailes was among the most high-profile in the #MeToo movement.

The network went on to pay millions in settlements to other women who brought harassment allegations.

A $15-million payout went to former Fox News personality Melissa Francis in 2022 after she filed a gender-based pay-disparity claim against the company.

Fox News also paid millions to the family of Seth Rich, a 27-year-old Democratic National Committee employee, after the network's website published unsubstantiated stories that his 2016 murder was tied to the leak of Hillary Clinton's emails.

Fox has sufficient reserves to pay the Dominion settlement, with $4 billion in cash on hand, according to the companys recent securities filings.

Fox referenced the Dominion and Smartmatic litigation in its last quarterly report, noting the company would vigorously defend itself against the claims of defamation, including through any appeals.

Since that filing, Fox has lost a series of court motions. But the company noted that it had the financial strength to weather the storm.

"The Company does not currently anticipate that the ultimate resolution of any such pending matters will have a material adverse effect on its business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

Times staff writer Meg James in Los Angeles contributed to this report.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Trucks outside Fox News headquarters Photo by Ilya S. Savenok/Getty Images for Media Matters

Fox News and Dominion Voting Systems on Tuesday reached a settlement over claims that the conservative cable news juggernaut defamed the election infrastructure company by broadcasting allegations that the 2020 presidential election had been "stolen" from former President Donald Trump, despite knowing internally that those statements were wholly untrue. Rather than continuing with what would have been a likely sensational trial for a requested $1.6 billion in damages, Dominion attorneys announced outside the Delaware courthouse that they had settled for $787.5 million, hailing the agreement as a "ringing endorsement for truth and for democracy" and saying that the "money is accountability."

"We acknowledge the Court's rulings finding certain claims about Dominion to be false," Fox said in a brief statement following the surprise announcement by presiding Judge Eric Davis that "the parties have resolved the case." The network said the settlement "reflects FOX's continued commitment to the highest journalistic standards."

The settlement came just after jurors for the trial had been seated in the court, and attorneys for both Fox and Dominion were poised to make their opening statements. Instead, after an unexplained delay, Davis announced the settlement, dismissed the assembled jurors, and praised both parties' legal teams, telling them "I would be proud to be your judge in the future." The plaudits came in sharp contrast with the judge's earlier criticism against the Fox News legal team which he claimed had made "misrepresentations to the court" over certain details of the case.

The settlement of Dominion's suit marks the closure of just one of Fox's many legal hurdles stemming from its 2020 election coverage. A separate voting machine company, Smartmatic, is also suing the network, announcing on Tuesday that "Dominion's litigation exposed some of the misconduct and damage caused by Fox's disinformation campaign. Smartmatic will expose the rest." Multiple members of the Fox Corp. board have also been sued by a shareholder who alleges that the network's 2020 coverage "exposed the Company to public ridicule and negatively impacted the credibility of Fox News as a media organization that is supposed to accurately report newsworthy events" thereby driving down its value.

Story continues

Although Dominion has settled with Fox News itself, attorney Stephen Shackelford suggested that further lawsuits were coming against individuals responsible for their specific damages against the company, saying "we are not done yet. We have some other people who have some accountability coming toward them."

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Fox News waved the white flag on Tuesday, settling with Dominion Voting Systems just hours into the first day of the bombshell trial over whether the conservative cable giant showed actual malice when it peddled election fraud lies about the voting software firm.

In a press conference shortly after the trial was halted, lawyers for Dominion Voting Systems said theyd settled for $787.5 millionroughly half of what theyd initially sought.

The truth matters, lies have consequences, Dominion co-lead counsel Justin Nelson said. Over two years ago, a torrent of lies swept Dominion and election officials across America into an alternative universe of conspiracy theories, causing grievous harm to Dominion and the country.

Dominion CEO John Polous called the result a historic settlement, adding that Fox admitted to telling lies about Dominion that greatly damaged his company and employees.

BREAKING: Dominion Voting Systems CEO John Poulos calls settlement with Fox News "historic," adding: "Fox has admitted to telling lies about Dominion that caused enormous damage to my company... nothing can ever make up for that." https://t.co/0hppoGCI1J pic.twitter.com/6ieXrHXEGL  ABC News (@ABC) April 18, 2023

Nothing can ever make up for that, he said. Throughout this process, we have sought accountability and believe the evidence brought to light through this case underscores the consequences of spreading and endorsing lies. Truthful reporting in the media is essential to our democracy. Dominion, our employees and our partners are grateful to the court for allowing the process for the truth to come out.

Fox will not have to provide an on-air apology for its false claims regarding Dominion, according to CNN.

Fox said in a statement: We are pleased to have reached a settlement of our dispute with Dominion Voting Systems. We acknowledge the Courts rulings finding certain claims about Dominion to be false.

Story continues

This settlement reflects FOXs continued commitment to the highest journalistic standards. We are hopeful that our decision to resolve this dispute with Dominion amicably, instead of the acrimony of a divisive trial, allows the country to move forward.

Dominions attorneys arrive for jury selection on Tuesday. EDUARDO MUNOZ/Reuters

Delaware Superior Court Judge Eric Davis first announced to jurors on Tuesday afternoon that the parties had resolved the case. He commended both sides, noting he had never seen such quality work from lawyers in his 13 years on the bench.

The quality of the briefing, the ability of attorneys to answer questions, the amount of workload that youve done in the caseand I just want to say, I would be proud to be your judge in the future, Davis said.

The settlement may be the largest in a defamation case involving the media. According to a March 2022 Media Law Resource Center report, the largest known settlement in a defamation suit against a media outlet was in 2012, when ABC settled for $177 million over an investigation involving allegations of pink slime.

Rumors of a settlement began circulating on the eve of the trial after Davis announced that the start of the proceedings would be delayed by one day. The Wall Street Journal, owned by Fox News founder Rupert Murdoch, reported on Sunday that the network was making a late push to settle.

In a Sunday legal filing, Fox News lawyers also disputed the damages it would pay if found liable by a jury in the $1.6 billion suit, stating that Dominion had recently softened its claims for alleged lost profits totaling upwards of $600 million. Dominion, however, disputed that, stating that the damages claim remains and that the network was well aware that our damages exceed $1.6 billion.

This does not seem unusual to me, Davis said on Monday morning while delaying the start of the trial. I am continuing the matter until tomorrow.

REVEALED: Fox Stars Think Trumpworld Figures Are Just as Insane as You Do

The lawsuit was spurred after various Fox News segments propagated the idea that voting machines made by Dominion were used to rig the 2020 election in favor of Democrats. That and countless conspiracies, including that Dominion was controlled by Venezuela, prompted the company to sue in March 2021 for $1.6 billion.

The case was dragged in court through years of procedural motions before exploding in February, when countless texts, statements, and depositions provided an unprecedented look into Fox News operations during the election period.

The texts included Fox stars like Tucker Carlson and Sean Hannity, along with various producers, labeling Donald Trump acolytes such as Sidney Powell and Mike Lindell as dangerous as hell and on the crazy train with no brakes.

Smartmatic, another voting software company suing Fox News for billions over its 2020 election lies, applauded Dominions handling of its case.

Dominions litigation exposed some of the misconduct and damage caused by Foxs disinformation campaign. Smartmatic will expose the rest, the firms lawyer Erik Connoly said in a statement. Smartmatic remains committed to clearing its name, recouping the significant damage done to the company, and holding Fox accountable for undermining democracy.

Prior to the settlement being reached on Tuesday afternoon, and following a two-hour delay in Dominion beginning its opening statement, Davis formally appointed a special master to investigate whether Fox News had complied with their discovery allegations. Last week, Davis had admonished the network over its description of Murdochs role with the network, as well as for potentially withholding evidence in the discovery phase.

Former Fox News producer Abby Grossberg, who is separately suing the network for harassment and discrimination, revealed last week that she was in possession of several audio recordings of former Trump attorneys and campaign officials acknowledging they had no proof that voting machines rigged the 2020 election. Grossberg also claimed these recordings were made available to Fox lawyers, but they didnt provide them to Dominion during discovery.

We hope that the Special Masters diligent and thorough investigation will result in all of the truth being revealed, and Ms. Grossberg stands ready to cooperate in any way possible, Grossbergs legal team said on Tuesday.

Grossbergs lawyers also congratulated Dominion on a truly precedent-setting settlement, adding that they are reminded of how Fox Newss penchant for paying out notoriously large settlements has failed to bring about actual meaningful changes to the networks abhorrent culture of lawlessness.

Fortunately, our client, Abby Grossberg, remains committed as ever to obtaining vindication of Fox Newss violations of not just her rights but the rights of others whose voices have been silenced or who fear retribution for exposing the truth, through her two lawsuits against Fox, attorneys Parisis G. Filippatos and Tanvir H. Rahman stated.

John Fawcett, another ex-Fox producer suing the network who was also listed as a potential witness in the Dominion trial, told The Daily Beast that the networks payout was mostly about protecting its top executives.

This settlement tells you everything you need to know about Foxthey will do and pay whatever they need to, to protect Rupert Murdoch, Suzanne Scott and the rest of the executive crew, Fawcett, a producer for Lou Dobbs former Fox Business show, said.

Legal experts had considered Dominions defamation case a strong one, meeting the high bar of actual malice that often prevents such cases from making it to trial. Davis passed a summary judgment that declared Fox made false claims surrounding Dominions role in the election, noting the copious amounts of evidence revealed through discovery and pre-trial motions, though he said Dominion would have to prove to a jury that Fox met the actual malice standard.

Dominions legal team let it be known on Thursday that regardless of the hefty settlement from Fox, they were far from done when it came to legal action against anyone who allegedly defamed the company.

Money is accountability, and we got that today from Fox, but were not done yet, Dominion attorney Stephen Shackleford said on Thursday. Weve got some other people who have some accountability coming towards them. And Im very proud of the team from Susman Godfrey that has worked tirelessly for this case. And well move right on to the next one.

Dominion still has pending lawsuits against far-right networks Newsmax and One America News, as well as MAGA pillow magnate Mike Lindell and former Trump attorneys Rudy Giuliani and Sidney Powell.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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People line up to gain access to the court

A hotly anticipated, $1.6bn (1.29bn) defamation trial pitting a US voting technology firm against Fox News is set to begin on Tuesday afternoon.

Dominion Voting Systems claims that Fox News knowingly amplified lies about its voting machines during the 2020 presidential election.

Fox denies the charges and argues its reporting on Dominion was newsworthy.

Among those expected to testify during the six week trial are Fox chairman Rupert Murdoch and host Tucker Carlson.

Opening arguments are due to begin on Tuesday afternoon. Jury selection was finalised in the morning and jurors were given their instructions by the judge.

Fox News and Dominion appear ready for a prolonged legal battle.

"In the coming weeks, we will prove Fox spread lies causing enormous damage to Dominion," a company spokesperson said in a statement.

"We look forward to trial."

In a statement to the BBC on Monday, Fox described Dominion's lawsuit as "a political crusade in search of a financial windfall".

Ahead of the trial, attorneys for Fox repeatedly objected to the $1.6bn in damages that Dominion was seeking, and characterised the figure as massively inflated.

The "real cost" of the case, Fox said, would be the "cherished" rights to freedom of speech and of the press that form the First Amendment of the US constitution.

"Fox News remains steadfast in protecting the rights of a free press, given a verdict for Dominion and its private equity owners would have grave consequences for the entire journalism profession," the statement added.

Dominion's lawsuit argues that the conservative network sullied the electronic-voting company's reputation by airing falsehoods about the 2020 vote being stolen from Donald Trump.

Legal findings released ahead of the trial suggested that a number of Fox executives and journalists privately questioned conspiracy claims the 2020 presidential election was stolen but still put them on air.

Story continues

In one series of text messages, host Tucker Carlson said the claims were both "absurd" and "insane", while another host, Sean Hannity, said privately he did not believe them "for one second".

Fox has said the words were taken out of context.

Ahead of the trial, Judge Davis ruled that the baseless claims against Dominion had already been proven false.

Jurors will only have to determine whether Fox News demonstrated "actual malice" through its coverage of Dominion, whose voting machines were used in 28 US states during the election.

The long-awaited case is receiving wide attention in the US, where it is being seen as a test of the strength of US libel laws versus the right to free speech.

Hundreds of spectators and journalists were on hand for the beginning of the trial, with about 200 present in the courtroom. Several dozen journalists were also watching from a neighbouring overflow room.

Outside the courthouse, a small handful of protesters was also present. One man held a sign accusing Fox of colluding with the US Republican party to spread "fascist propaganda".

"For too long, we've been in this awful post-truth era where you can just make up your own version of reality, which is what Fox does every night," Bill, a 38-year-old scientist, told the BBC.

"That's got to stop, and I hope that this court agrees with us," he added.

The trial is expected to last six weeks, with Judge Davis vowing to keep the parties to a strict timetable.

(With additional reporting from Nathalie Jimenez)
Fox chairman Rupert Murdoch (left, with son Lachlan) could have had to testify

Fox News has settled a defamation lawsuit from the voting machine company, Dominion, over its reporting of the 2020 presidential election.

In a last-minute settlement before trial, the network agreed to pay $787.5m (634m) - about half of the $1.6bn initially sought by Dominion.

Dominion argued its business was harmed by Fox spreading false claims the vote had been rigged against Donald Trump.

The deal spares Fox executives such as Rupert Murdoch from having to testify.

The judge in the case is not required to give his approval for the agreement.

Fox said Tuesday's settlement in one of the most anticipated defamation trials in recent US history reflected its "commitment to the highest journalistic standards".

The Fox statement added without elaborating that the network "acknowledges the court's rulings finding certain claims about Dominion to be false".

Dominion chief executive John Poulos told a press conference the deal included Fox "admitting to telling lies, causing enormous damage to my company".

Justin Nelson, a Dominion attorney, told reporters that "the truth matters".

"Lies have consequences," he added. "Over two years ago a torrent of lies swept Dominion and election officials across America into an alternative universe of conspiracy theories, causing grievous harm to Dominion and the country."

Mr Nelson added that for "democracy to endure", Americans must "share a commitment to facts".

Opening arguments in the case had been due to start on Tuesday afternoon.

The announcement of a settlement came after an unexplained delay of several hours once jury selection had finished, prompting speculation that talks were under way behind the scenes.

On Monday, Delaware Superior Court Judge Eric Davis announced that the start of the trial would be delayed by 24 hours.

Story continues

Although he gave no reason, US media reported that it was to give both sides an opportunity to reach a settlement.

On Tuesday morning, however, both sides appeared to be digging in for a lengthy trial.

Attorneys for Fox had repeatedly objected to the $1.6bn in damages sought by Colorado-based Dominion, characterising the figure as massively inflated.

The "real cost" of the case, Fox had argued, would be the "cherished" rights to freedom of speech and of the press enshrined in the First Amendment of the US Constitution.

Dominion's lawsuit argued that the conservative network had sullied the electronic voting company's reputation by airing falsehoods about the 2020 vote being stolen from former President Trump.

Mr Trump attacked the voting machine company after the ballot, falsely claiming that it rigged the election to favour winner Joe Biden.

The lawsuit said that the false claims were partly an effort to win over viewers who were angered by Fox's decision on election night to - correctly - declare that Mr Trump's then-challenger, Joe Biden, had won the crucial state of Arizona.

Two of the Fox executives responsible for the Arizona decision lost their jobs two months later.

Legal findings released ahead of the trial suggested that a number of Fox executives and journalists privately questioned and dismissed conspiracy claims that the 2020 presidential election was stolen, but still put them on air.

Court documents show that Mr Murdoch referred to the claims about Dominion as "really crazy", but failed to take any action.

In one series of text messages, top-rated host Tucker Carlson said some of the claims were "insane". Another host, Sean Hannity, said privately he did not believe them "for one second".

Fox has said the words were taken out of context.

Ahead of the trial, Judge Davis ruled that the claims against Dominion had already been proven false, emphasising that the falsehoods were "crystal clear".

Despite the mammoth pay-out, some legal experts believe the settlement was overall a positive outcome for the network.

Syracuse University professor and First Amendment expert Roy Gutterman said: "Looking down the line at a six-week trial, this was going to be gruelling for everyone involved and likely embarrassing for Fox.

"But a verdict against Fox could have been even costlier, and had serious implications on subsequent rulings on the actual malice standard and the First Amendment itself."

Had the defamation trial gone ahead, jurors would have been tasked with determining whether Fox News acted with "actual malice" by broadcasting claims it knew to be false.

Civil litigation attorney Michelle Simpson Tuegel told the BBC that the settlement "speaks to the massive threat Fox saw from this litigation".

"The reputational harm of having executives, including chairman Rupert Murdoch, and hosts take the stand seems to have moved the parties towards a resolution," Ms Tuegel added.

Fox still faces a second, similar defamation lawsuit from another election technology firm, Smartmatic, which is seeking $2.7bn.

Dominion still has litigation pending against two conservative news networks, OAN and Newsmax.

The company has also sued Trump allies such as Rudy Giuliani, Sidney Powell and Mike Lindell.
TAIPEI (Reuters) - Terry Gou, the billionaire founder of major Apple Inc supplier Foxconn, has no plan for now to visit China, he said on Tuesday, in his bid to become the presidential nominee of Taiwan's main opposition party.

Tension between Taipei and Beijing has surged in the run-up to January's election, as China stages regular military exercises near the island to assert sovereignty claims that Taiwan's democratically elected government rejects.

Gou, who is one of Taiwan's most recognisable faces, launched a second bid this month for the presidential ticket of the opposition Kuomintang (KMT), which traditionally favours close ties with China.

"I don't have this plan for the time being," Gou, 72, said at a news conference in the capital, Taipei, when asked whether he would follow former Taiwan President Ma Ying-jeou and go to China.

"But, anything beneficial for the Republic of China, anything beneficial for cross-Strait peace, anything beneficial for trade and economic exchanges across the Strait, I will do what I can to promote it and implement it," he added, referring to Taiwan by its formal name.

The news conference followed Gou's return this month from Japan, preceded last month by a visit to the United States as part of a campaign tour.

Gou, who stepped down as Foxconn chief in 2019, has failed to win the opposition party's presidential nomination once before.

Ma, also of the KMT, is the first former Taiwanese president to ever visit China, on a historic trip concluded this month.

Since the defeated Republic of China government fled to Taiwan in 1949 after losing a civil war to Mao Zedong's communists, no incumbent leader of the island has visited China.

While Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has already chosen current Vice President William Lai as its presidential candidate, the KMT has yet to do so.

(Reporting by Ben Blanchard; Editing by Clarence Fernandez)
A protest in Paris during French President Emmanuel Macron's televised address to the nation after signing pension reforms into law - AFP

Scotland Yard has arrested a French publisher suspected of taking part in the protests against President Emmanuel Macrons pension reforms under anti-terrorism laws.

Ernest Moret, a freelancer at the Left-wing Editions La Fabrique, was detained at St Pancras station on Monday evening after arriving on the Eurostar.

He had travelled to the UK to take part in the London Book Fair, but was held for questioning on arrival under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act, which allows police to investigate people passing through UK borders.

After being questioned by counter terror police he was subsequently arrested on suspicion of obstructing the investigation and remained in custody.

According to his Paris-based employer, Mr Moret was questioned about his involvement in demonstrations in France about plans to raise the retirement age from 62 to 64.

A spokesman for the publisher, which describes itself as a house whose aim is to subvert the established order, said Mr Moret had been questioned about his participation in the demonstrations and unrest over the planned pension reforms.

In a statement the spokesman said: On arrival at St Pancras Station, Ernest was pulled aside by police officers acting under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act 2000 and detained for questioning without a lawyer present, allegedly to determine whether he was engaged in terrorist acts or in possession of material for use in terrorism.

The police officers claimed that Ernest had participated in demonstrations in France as a justification for this act - a quite remarkably inappropriate statement for a British police officer to make and which seems to clearly indicate complicity between French and British authorities on this matter.

It was demanded that he give up his phone and pass codes to the officers, with no justification or explanation offered. This morning, Ernest was formally arrested and transferred to a police station, accused of obstruction because of his refusal to give up his pass codes. He remains in police custody.

Story continues

An assault on freedom of expression

We consider these actions to be outrageous and unjustifiable infringements of basic principles of the freedom of expression and an example of the abuse of anti-terrorism laws.

We consider that this assault on the freedom of expression of a publisher is yet another manifestation of the slide towards repressive and authoritarian measures taken by the current French government in the face of widespread popular discontent and protest.

It is crucial for all defenders of basic democratic values to express in the strongest terms that we find this intolerable and outrageous.

Powers under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act 2000 give police officers the power to stop and question people arriving at the UK borders in order to determine if they may be involved in the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism.

A Scotland Yard spokesman refused to discuss what the suspect had been questioned about but confirmed that a 28-year-old man has been arrested after obstructing the investigation.

The spokesman said: At around 7.30pm on Monday, 17 April, a 28-year-old man was stopped by port officers as he arrived at St Pancras station, using powers under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act 2000.

On Tuesday, 18 April, the man was subsequently arrested on suspicion of wilfully obstructing a Schedule 7 examination (contrary to section 18 of the Terrorism Act 2000). The man remains in custody. Enquiries continue.

Gerald Darmanin, the French interior minister, has pointedly blamed the violence that marred some protests against pension reform in France over the past three months on far-Left Black Blocks.

Emmanuel Macron - AFP

After particularly violent clashes last month in which 457 people were arrested and 441 police officers injured, Mr Darmanin said: The far-Left wants to attack the Republic, and we have to send a message of condemnation.

Speaking to The Telegraph, Jean Morisot, one of the publishing houses owners, said: Ernest is a former philosophy student who has been working with us for a long time. He went to London for professional reasons and this is an infringement on our work.

This is part of a slide toward a surveillance society

We dont know why hes specifically been arrested. But it seems clear there is an exchange of information and methods between the British and French police here. It is part of a slide toward a surveillance society.

It seems to be an attempt to exert a form of pressure on political groups and militants to weaken and disorganise any opposition. Any environmental or union activist who demonstrates too vehemently is put on police files and bothered and hunted down. That appears to be what has happened here with the aid of the British police.

People bandy about the spectre of Black Blocks. But this is the first time that Ernest has ever been arrested and he has no criminal record.

La Fabrique notably published The Coming Insurrection, a French radical Leftist, anarchist tract written by The Invisible Committee, the nom de plume of an anonymous author (or possibly authors). It hypothesises the imminent collapse of capitalist culture.

The Coming Insurrection is also known for its association with the legal case of the Tarnac Nine, a group of nine French young people arrested in Tarnac in rural France on Nov 11 2008 on the grounds that they were to have participated in the sabotage of overhead electrical lines on Frances national railways.

The Tarnac Nine were variously accused of conspiracy, sabotage, terrorism, and being the authors of The Coming Insurrection. They were acquitted of most of the charges in 2018.

Mr Morisot said: The police tried to link La Fabrique with the presumed authors of this work and militant actions. They mobilised anti-terror forces and were relentless but they never succeeded in finding a link.

A protest was due to take place at the French Institute in south Kensington on Tuesday evening, with demonstrators calling on Helene Duchene, the French ambassador, to request Mr Morets release.

Pamela Morton, the National Union of Journalists senior books and magazines organiser, urged members to join the protest and said: It seems extraordinary that the British police have acted this way in using terrorism legislation to arrest the publisher who was on legitimate business here for the London Book Fair.

A spokesman for the Metropolitan Police said the man was bailed on Tuesday evening.
Vladimir Kara-Murza is a pro-democracy opposition leader in Russia  and my friend. He was arrested in April of last year for

discrediting the armed forces of Russia. His arrest was apparently triggered by a visit he made to Arizona the previous month during which he simply told the truth.

The entire world sees what [Russian President Vladimir] Putins regime is doing to Ukraine, Kara-Murza told members of Arizonas state legislature. It bombs civilian areas, hospitals and schools.

In the months that followed his arrest, the Kremlin piled on. He was also charged with using the funds of an undesirable organization  the Washington, D.C. -based NGO Free Russia Foundation  to convene a conference in support of Russian political prisoners in Moscow in October 2021. Simultaneously, he was accused of high treason because he testified before the Helsinki Commission and the NATO Parliamentary assembly, and for allegedly consulting foreign special services for $30,000 a month.



On Monday, Kara-Murza was sentenced to 25 years in a strict regime prison colony. This is likely the longest sentence ever meted out for political activity in post-Soviet Russia, where the maximum term for murder is 15 years and the punishment for rape is the same. His sentence combines penalties for all these crimes: seven years for the first, three for the second, and 15 years (apparently reduced from eighteen) for the third.

This punishment is much harsher than the ones to which the regimes vengeance has lately subjected members of the opposition. The two other leading opponents of the Kremlin, Alexei Navalny and Ilya Yashin, were sentenced to nine years and eight-and-a-half years respectively.

Heightened repression is always a sign of fear. Could Kara-Murzas punishment have had something to do with the fact that Navalny was sentenced a year ago and Yashin last December, when the war in Ukraine may not have looked to the Kremlin as much of an endless bloody slog as it appears today? And also when its prosecution of the war, while dealing with harsh Western sanctions, was not as much fraught with the possibility of popular discontent over gradual impoverishment and casualties in the hundreds of thousands? It seems that the reason the sentence is so harsh is to scare civil society and preclude any chance of organized resistance.

Story continues

Even in the post-Stalin Soviet Union, the authorities generally avoided charging dissidents with crimes like high treason, most often espionage. (The 1977 case of the Jewish refusenik Anatoly Sharansky was an exception.) As Kara-Murza, whom the Kremlin almost certainly tried to poison twice before, pointed out to the kangaroo court this week, his sentence harkens back not just to Soviet times but to the 1930s Stalinist purges of enemies of the people.

Kara-Murza is a Cambridge-trained historian, and he was right. Putins regime is descending into Stalinism. Sustained by indiscriminate ruthlessness, such regimes do not evolve witness North Korea or Cuba. They can only be destroyed either by an invasion, like Pol Pots Cambodia or Saddam Husseins Iraq, or exploded from within by a miraculous leader like Mikhail Gorbachev.

Neither outcome is likely in Russia so long as Putin lives. And so the struggle is very personal now between the two Vladimirs, Putin and Kara-Murza, even biological: Only Putins death can free my friend Vladimir. Putin is 70, Kara-Murza is 41. But the effective age gap will narrow steadily as Kara-Murzas jailers will undoubtedly begin grinding him down from day one.

Yet Kara-Murza was defiant and hopeful even as his sentence came down. I know that the day will come when the darkness over our country will be gone, he said in his final statement before the court. When the war will be called a war, and the usurper [in the Kremlin] will be called a usurper; when those who have ignited this war will be called criminals instead of those who tried to stop it... And then our people will open their eyes and shudder at the sight of the horrific crimes committed in their names.



And that is how Russias road back to the community of civilized states will commence, Kara-Murza told the court. Even as he sat in the steel cage in the courtroom, he said he believed that Russia would travel this road.

Because, he concluded, despite everything, I love my country and I have trust in our people.
Apple opened its first retail store in India on Tuesday in Mumbai with another due to open in New Delhi on Thursday. Photo: Getty via Punit Paranjpe/AFP.

Apple (AAPL)

Investors were watching Apple stock on Tuesday after it opened its first retail store in India. The company showed its commitment to expand in the country, which it also plans to turn into a manufacturing hub.

The new shop, called Apple BKC, is in Indias financial capital, Mumbai. A second store is due to open on Thursday in New Delhi.

Tim Cook, Apples chief executive, said: India has such a beautiful culture and an incredible energy, and were excited to build on our long-standing history.

Apples launch of a new savings account in the US  that will pay a market-leading 4.5% a year  has also whet the appetite of investors.

For those looking for better returns, it presents a challenge to the banks offering the average 0.37% saving rate.

Read more: FTSE 100 and European stocks rise as investors digest UK unemployment data

Deposit flows reported in some of the big bank earnings so far have also reflected how customers have been moving money into alternative products.

Charles Schwab (SCHW) on Monday said deposits fell 11% in the first quarter and 30% year-on-year, while M&T Bank (MTB) said total deposits had declined 3% from $163.5bn (131.5bn) at the end of 2022 to $159.1bn.

Meanwhile, Apples stock opened 0.85% higher on Tuesday at 166.63 per share.

Netflix (NFLX)

The streaming service will report its first quarter earnings later on Tuesday as investors await updates on the company's recently launched ad-supported tier, in addition to its controversial crackdown on password-sharing.

Russ Mould, AJ Bell investment director, and Danni Hewson, AJ Bell head of financial analysis, said: Even though they have more than doubled from 2022s lows, shares in Netflix are pretty much flat over the past year and still 50% below their autumn 2021 peak.

Bulls will argue the rally is justified because the initial fall was out of proportion to two quarters of missed subscriber growth estimates in the first half of 2022.

Story continues

Read more: How Bank of England plans to prevent SVB-like bank runs

They will also point to the rich catalogue of content and strong slate of shows, the launch of a new discounted ad-funded price package designed to win new subscribers and improved net customer additions in the second half of last year  Netflix added 7.7 million subs in Q4, well ahead of managements guidance of 4.5 million.

Bears will point to increased competition; the surging cost of content production; spotty cash flow; a balance sheet that carries not just $9.3bn of net debt, but more than $2bn in leases and nearly $22bn in guaranteed content purchase obligations, according to the analysts.

The first number that analysts and shareholders will look for is net subscriber additions. After shedding 203,000 net subscribers in Q1 and 969,000 in Q2 (and that was much less than managements forecast of an initial loss of 2 million), Netflix added a better-than-expected 2.4 million in Q3 and then a strong 7.7 million in Q4, to leave the company with 230.7 million paying subs at year end, they added.

Shares in EasyJet rose nearly 3% to 524.20 on the London Stock Exchange (LSEG.L) as it continues its path back to financial safety with the expectations of a busy summer period to come.

Richard Hunter, head of markets at Interactive Investor, said EasyJet now expects revenues for the half-year to rise to 2.69bn from a previous 1.5bn and for the pre-tax loss number to reduce from 545m to between 405m and 425m.

For the full year, EasyJet anticipates exceeding market expectations for a profit of 260m given the high demand and strong bookings which it is already seeing, Hunter said.

Indeed, Easter capacity in the UK returned to pre-pandemic levels, and is expected to remain there in peak summer, following an increase in capacity of 40% between January and March. For the second quarter, the group saw passengers increase by 35% year-on-year, with revenue per seat spiking by 43% and with a load factor of 88%, compared to a previous 78%.

Read more: UK pay growth jumps as unemployment rate rises

Further progress has also been made in the reduction of EasyJets net debt, which has reduced from 1.1bn at the end of 2022 to a current 0.2bn.

But said it is still fighting higher fuel and operating costs and the return of air traffic control strikes.

The big unknown is demand for last-minute breaks. While advance bookings have been encouraging, the more plane tickets go up in value, the more certain people will be priced out of taking a foreign holiday," said Mould.

Jet fuel prices have been falling, yet airlines are unlikely to cut their ticket prices when theyre still playing earnings catch-up from the pandemic. The industry will probably take the bet that consumers cave into higher prices and accept their holiday is going to cost more this summer. Thats a risky move, but airlines have form in getting every last penny from the customer.

Alphabet (GOOG)

Traders will also be watching Alphabet stock to see how it recovers after it lost nearly 4% on Monday, erasing about $55bn in its market value. At market open in the US on Tuesday, the stock declined a further 0.46% to 105.93.

It comes after a report from The New York Times suggested that competition was heating up in the mobile search market.

The report said that Samsung could replace Google as the default search engine on its devices with Microsofts (MSFT) Bing Search instead.

Read more: Alphabet stock declines following Google CEO Sundar Pichais warning on AI

However, Alphabet is working hard to maintain its market share with some 160 people working to incorporate artificial intelligence features into its search product, according to the New York Times.

The stock decline also followed comments from Googles chief executive warning about the capabilities of artificial intelligence.

Sundar Pichai said that the push to implement AI must be better regulated to avoid negative consequences and that it could have harmful effects on society.

Watch: Fan greets Tim Cook with Macintosh at India's first Apple store

Download the Yahoo Finance app, available for Apple and Android.
A fugitive hid from detectives in an attic for about two hours before he crashed through the ceiling, Florida police said.

Officers were searching for the man, who was wanted on two felony warrants and was hiding out in his home in Cape Coral, according to a post on the Lee County Sheriffs Office Facebook page on April 18.

Detectives went to the home and heard someone in the attic, the post says.

They tried to speak to the man, but he refused to come down from the attic for two hours, according to the sheriffs office.

Detectives went up to the attic and pepper sprayed the man, at which point he fell through the ceiling and onto the floor below, the post says.

The 28-year-old man was arrested on charges including obstruction, felony probation violation and possession of drug equipment, according to the sheriffs office.

He is being held on a $3,000 bond, according to Lee County jail records.

Cape Coral is about 130 miles south of Tampa.

Murder suspect plunges through ceiling while hiding from police, Tennessee officials say

17-year-old on the run after stealing patrol car while handcuffed, Missouri police say

Dangerous inmates captured days after cutting through jail ceiling, Missouri cops say
The Fulton County District Attorneys Office has offered immunity deals to several fake electors who gathered at the State Capitol in 2020 to cast Electoral College votes for former President Donald Trump.

The revelation was made public on Tuesday in a filing from the DAs office, which also asked that one of the attorneys representing those electors be disqualified from the case.

According to the filing, Kimberly Burroughs Debrow, who represents 10 of the electors, failed to inform her clients about the potential immunity deals after they were offered last summer.

In the filing, Willis said Debrows representation of the 10 electors has become an impracticable and ethical mess after interviews with some of the electors last week showed that they told the investigation team that no potential offer of immunity was ever brought to them in 2022.

RELATED STORIES:

The court documents said the electors had been told by Debrow and her then-co-counsel, Holly Pierson, on Aug. 5, 2022, that none of their clients were interested in immunity.

At least 11 electors are part of Willis investigation into potential tampering in the 2020 presidential election.

Channel 2 political reporter Richard Elliot was in the room in December 2020 as 16 GOP false electors signed a document declaring their votes for Trump.

Former State GOP chair David Shafer testified that the only reason they met was to keep former President Donald Trumps elections lawsuits alive and that he was unaware of larger efforts to use the slate to overturn the election in Congress.

Shafer has since stepped down as chair of the Georgia GOP. He has also been named as a target of the investigation.

The motion comes as Willis decides whether or not to bring criminal charges in the investigation into potential election tampering.

RELATED NEWS:
A fundraiser started Sunday to help the family of Ralph Yarl, the Black Kansas City teen shot twice by a white man when he rang the wrong doorbell, has raised more than $2.6 million so far.

The GoFundMe started by Yarls aunt Faith Spoonmore has raised $2.66 million as of Tuesday morning to help family pay for the boys medical bills and other expenses.

Additional funds, she said, will help the 16-year-old pay for college expenses and a trip to West Africa.

On Sunday, protesters called on local law enforcement to take action and provide justice for the family. The calls were echoed across the nation, with President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and celebrities like Halle Berry and Jennifer Hudson also sharing their support for the boy and his family.

Yarl was hospitalized after 84-year-old Andrew D. Lester allegedly shot him twice on the front porch of his Northland home.

The boy was sent to pick up his younger brothers, but he ended up at the wrong residence. Instead of going to a home in the 1100 block of 115th Terrace, he rang Lesters doorbell in the 1100 block of 115th Street, his family has said.

On Monday, Clay County prosecutors charged Lester with first-degree assault and armed criminal action after many across the nation demanded further action when the man was held by police for 24 hours but released.

The assault charge is a class A felony, and, if found guilty, Lester could face between 10 and 30 years or up to life in prison.

According to charging documents, Yarl told detectives he rang the doorbell at the home and waited, when a white man answered with a firearm in hand.

Yarl said the man shot him immediately after opening the door, causing the teen to fall to the ground. Then, he said, the man shot him a second time in the arm.

After he was shot, Yarl said he heard the man tell him Dont come around here. Yarl told detectives he ran from the home and asked at multiple residences for someone to call 911.

Story continues

As of Monday night, Lester had not been booked in jail. A warrant is out for his arrest, which calls for a $200,000 bond.

On the GoFundMe, Spoonmore said her nephew is a high-achieving student and musician. She said he plays in the jazz, competition and marching band and has earned state recognition as a bass clarinet player. Yarl also plays multiple instruments in the Northland Symphony Youth Orchestra, she said.

He was selected his sophomore year for the Missouri Scholars Academy at the University of Missouri and hopes to study chemical engineering at Texas A&M, Spoonmore said.

Dan Clemens, superintendent of the North Kansas City School District where Yarl attends Staley High School, also shared a message of support for his family Monday and emphasized the teens achievements.

Ralph is an excellent student, a talented musician, Clemens said. He maintains a stellar GPA while taking mostly college-level courses. While he loves science and hopes to pursue that career path, his passion is music.

Yarls father, Paul Yarl, told The Star Monday that his son has been released from the hospital and is recovering at his mothers home.

Hes responsive, Paul Yarl said. Hes responding and its a slow recovery, but hes making good progress.
By Humeyra Pamuk and Sakura Murakami

KARUIZAWA, Japan (Reuters) -The Group of Seven industrial powers drew together on Tuesday to criticise China's coercion of Taiwan and Russia's threat to station nuclear weapons in Belarus, promising to intensify sanctions on Moscow for its war on neighbouring Ukraine.

"The strength of the solidarity between the G7 foreign ministers is at a level not seen before," Japan's Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi told a news conference after hosting a meeting of the group in the Japanese resort town of Karuizawa.

The show of unity comes after French President Emmanuel Macron this month said the European Union should reduce its dependency on the United States and cautioned against being drawn into a Taiwan crisis.

Beijing, which views Taiwan as Chinese territory and has not renounced the use of force to take the democratically governed island, rebuffed the G7 comments as gross interference in its internal affairs, however.

The G7 communique highlights how the dual issues of Russian military intervention and fears of similar action by China against Taiwan have been a focus of the three-day meeting.

The group, which comprises the United States, Japan, Germany, Britain, France, Italy and Canada, described Russia's threat to put nuclear weapons in Belarus as "unacceptable". It said "any use of chemical, biological or nuclear weapons in Ukraine "would be met with severe consequences."

Russian President Vladimir Putin last month said Russia would station shorter-range, so-called tactical nuclear weapons because the NATO military alliance was expanding towards Russia's borders.

It was the first time since the Cold War ended three decades ago that Russia has suggested stationing nuclear forces in another country, raising the stakes in its intensifying standoff with the West over Ukraine.

In a bid to limit Moscow's ability to wage its war, the G7 ministers in their communique also warned other nations, which the U.S. and other Western nation worry could include China, not to supply Russia's armed forces.

Story continues

"We will reinforce our coordination to prevent and respond to third parties supplying weapons to Russia," they said.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken last month said China had not yet supplied Russia with lethal aid, but U.S. officials are also concerned about dual-use products, such as electronics components that can be used in missiles and other weapons.

In a news conference after the G7 meeting, Blinken criticised Russia after a days-long pause in the inspection of ships moving grains from Ukraine under a U.N.-brokered initiative.

On Tuesday Russian media said inspections had restarted.

Taking direct aim at China, the ministers also agreed that peace and security in the Taiwan Strait were critical and opposed militarisation of the South China Sea. They called on Beijing to act.

"We remind China of the need to uphold the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and abstain from threats, coercion intimidation and the use of force," the ministers said in the document, which included a condemnation of North Korea's missile launches and expressed concern about Myanmar, Afghanistan and Iran.

China's foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said the G7 communique grossly interfered in the country's internal affairs, and maliciously smeared and discredited it.

The statements were "full of arrogance, prejudice against China," Wang told a regular media briefing, adding, "We have made a strong demarche to the host Japan."

Wang urged the G7 instead "to reflect on their own problems".

"We should abandon the Cold War mentality and ideological prejudices, stop condescending and pointing fingers at other countries, and stop artificially creating confrontation and division in the international community," he said.

(Reporting by Sakura Murakami and Humeyra Pamuk, additional reporting by Laurie Chen in Beijing; Writing by Tim Kelly; Editing by David Dolan and Lincoln Feast)
The G7 countries plan to block Russian assets until the end of the war in Ukraine

We are determined, consistent with our respective legal systems, that Russias sovereign assets in our jurisdictions will remain immobilized until there is a resolution of the conflict that addresses Russias violation of Ukraines sovereignty and territorial integrity, the statement says.

Read also: G7 finance ministers to discuss impact of Russian invasion on global economy

Any resolution to the conflict must ensure Russia pays for the damage it has caused.

Read also: Ukraines FM calls on EU, G7 to slap more sanctions on Russia

The G7 foreign ministers also stressed they remain committed to intensifying sanctions against Russia, coordinating and fully enforcing them, including through the Enforcement Coordination Mechanism, and countering Russias and third parties attempts to evade and undermine our sanctions measures.

The European Commission concluded it will be legally obliged to return the frozen assets of Russias central bank after the war, German newspaper Die Welt reported on April 13.

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
KARUIZAWA, Japan (AP)  Top diplomats from the Group of Seven wealthy democracies vowed a unified front against Chinese threats to Taiwan and Russia's war of aggression in Ukraine, saying at the close of their meetings Tuesday that they were committed to boosting and enforcing tough sanctions against Moscow.

The G-7 communique laying out their commitments also included strong words over an unprecedented run of North Korean missile tests. But it was China's growing assertiveness in Asia and Russia's invasion of Ukraine that highlighted the three-day summit hosted by Japan in this hot springs resort town.

There can be no impunity for war crimes and other atrocities such as Russias attacks against civilians and critical civilian infrastructure, the ministers said.

We remain committed to intensifying sanctions against Russia, coordinating and fully enforcing them, the communique said, and would support for as long as it takes" Ukraine as it defends itself.

The foreign ministers' communique was prepared as a template for global leaders to use at a G-7 summit that will be held in Hiroshima next month, and included language about Iran, Myanmar, Afghanistan, nuclear proliferation and other grave threats.

But two crises stood out: Chinas increasing threats against, and military maneuvers around, Taiwan, the self-governing democracy that Beijing claims as its own, and Russias invasion of Ukraine. Russias current offensive is largely stalled and Ukraine is preparing a counteroffensive, but theres widespread global worry about the Russian leaders repeated threats to use tactical nuclear weapons.

Russias irresponsible nuclear rhetoric and its threat to deploy nuclear weapons in Belarus are unacceptable, the ministers said.

The G-7 envoys from Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Canada, Italy and the European Union have underlined that their meeting in Karuizawa marks a crucial moment in the worlds response to Russian and Chinese aggression, two crises that are seen as challenges to the post-World War II rules-based international order. Global efforts to confront the matters at the United Nations have been stymied by Chinese and Russian intransigence on the Security Council.

Story continues

Leaders and foreign ministers of G-7 countries, most recently France and Germany, have recently concluded visits to China, and there is growing worry after China recently sent planes and ships to simulate an encirclement of Taiwan. Beijing has also been rapidly adding nuclear warheads, taking a tougher line on its claim to the South China Sea and painting a scenario of impending confrontation.

The G-7 ministers said that peace and stability between China and Taiwan in the Taiwan Strait is an indispensable element in security and prosperity in the international community, and they called for the peaceful resolution of cross-Strait issues.

On Taiwan, there is clear unanimity in the approach we are taking, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters of his talks with other ministers in Karuizawa.

"What I heard was a remarkable convergence on concerns related to (China) and what were doing to address those concerns, he said.

On stalled discussions with the Chinese, Blinken said the United States placed a premium on keeping communications channels open as President Joe Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping agreed to last year.

My expectation would be that we will be able to move forward on that, but it does require China to make clear its own intentions in doing that, Blinken said.

The communique also urged China to abstain from threats, coercion, intimidation or the use of force. We remain seriously concerned about the situation in the East and South China Seas. ... There is no legal basis for Chinas expansive maritime claims in the South China Sea, and we oppose Chinas militarization activities in the region.

In Beijing, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Wenbin said the G-7 had grossly interfered in China's internal affairs and maliciously slandered and smeared China.

He said the communique is full of arrogance, prejudice and sinister intentions against China. We strongly oppose and deplore this and have lodged solemn complaints with the Japanese side, the host country of the meeting.

Despite indications, notably comments from French President Emmanuel Macron, that the G-7 is split over China, U.S. officials said in Karuizawa that there is a shared worry among G-7 nations over Chinas actions, and a desire to continue a coordinated approach on working with Beijing even as nations confront Chinese coercion and attempts to water down or circumvent international rules regarding trade and commerce.

Japans worry about China can be seen it its efforts to make a major break from its self-defense-only post-World War II principles, which include work to acquire preemptive strike capabilities and cruise missiles.

For the first time as the G-7, we noted in a statement our commitment to a rules-based, free and open international order and our strong objection to unilateral attempts to change the status-quo anywhere in the world," Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi told reporters.

He said that Japan, as the only G-7 member in Asia, brought a focus to the Indo-Pacific region.

Besides China, a key worry is North Korea, which since the beginning of last year has test-fired around 100 missiles, including intercontinental ballistic missiles that showed the potential of reaching the U.S. mainland and a variety of other shorter-range weapons that threaten South Korea and Japan.

We demand North Korea refrain from any other destabilizing or provocative actions, including any further nuclear tests or launches that use ballistic missile technology, the communique said, adding that future actions must be met with a swift, united and robust international response, including further significant measures to be taken by the UN Security Council.

It is critical that sanctions be fully and scrupulously implemented by all states and remain in place for as long as North Koreas WMD (weapons of mass destruction) and ballistic missile programs exist, the ministers said.

___

Yamaguchi reported from Tokyo.
Former Rep. Gabby Giffords (D-Ariz.) has condemned the gun violence and injustice evident in the shooting of a Kansas City, Missouri, teenager who went to the wrong house last week to pick up his siblings.

As someone who is still recovering from a gunshot to the head, I am heartbroken and infuriated that Ralph Yarl now faces a lifetime of recovery, Giffords tweeted Monday. At 16 years old. For simply ringing a doorbell. We cannot continue to be a nation defined by gun violence and injustice.

Ralph Yarl, a Black high school junior, was shot in the head and arm on Thursday night after ringing the doorbell of a home in Kansas City. According to his family, he had mistakenly arrived at the address thinking it was the house where he was supposed to pick up his younger brothers.

Andrew Lester, an 84-year-old white man, has been charged with two felonies in the shooting: assault in the first degree and armed criminal action.

Lester allegedly fired his .32-caliber revolver through the glass of his front door, striking Yarl in the head. According to Clay County Prosecutor Zachary Thompson, Yarl never entered the home and the two had not exchanged any words when Lester opened fire.

Thompson said he believes there was a racial component in the shooting.

As someone who is still recovering from a gunshot to the head, I am heartbroken and infuriated that Ralph Yarl now faces a lifetime of recovery.



At 16 years old. For simply ringing a doorbell.



We cannot continue to be a nation defined by gun violence and injustice. pic.twitter.com/DQq063yRLz  Gabrielle Giffords (@GabbyGiffords) April 17, 2023

In 2011, Giffords was shot in the head when a gunman opened fire at an event she was hosting at a grocery store in Tucson. Six people died, and 12 others were wounded. She suffered a brain injury and underwent intensive speech and physical therapy. She stepped back from Congress and went on to become a vocal advocate for gun safety.

Story continues

The organization she founded to combat gun violence, named Giffords, also tweeted about the Yarl shooting, writing: This is fringe gun culture at work. Its built on the false, and often racist, foundation that its ok to shoot first and ask questions later. And it must end.

Missouri has controversial stand your ground laws that make it legal for a person to use physical force to the extent he or she reasonably believes such force to be necessary to defend himself or herself from what the person reasonably believes to be the use or imminent use of unlawful force by such other person.

The laws have been fiercely criticized by anti-gun violence groups. The Brady Center to Prevent Gun Violence, for example, says stand your ground laws disproportionately harm Black people and perpetuate the decades-long brutalization of Black lives while protecting and promoting unjust and unwarranted violence in America.

Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas said the law, which was adopted in Missouri in 2016, should not apply in this case, according to The New York Times.

If Stand Your Ground really lets somebody just shoot somebody that rings a doorbell, he said, that puts the life of every postal worker, every campaigner, every Amazon delivery person at risk in this country.

Correction:A previous version of this story incorrectly listed Lesters age as 85.

Related...
Gay Adult Store in U.K. Vandalized for Second Time in Two Months

For the second time in as many months, a gay adult book and novelty store in the U.K. was vandalized.

Clonezone Manchester in Manchester reported its glass front door was deliberately damaged by vandals on the evening of Thursday, April 13. The attack followed a similar incident of vandalism targeting the store that took place last month on Wednesday, March 22.

While the front door was damaged, nobody was reported injured in either attack.

It saddens me to, again, be writing this but would like to thank everyone for the outpouring of well wishes and support we have received after the second incident of targeted vandalism against Clonezone Manchester, Clonezone posted to Twitter on Friday.

\u201c\ud83c\udff3\ufe0f\u200d\ud83c\udf08\ud83c\udff3\ufe0f\u200d\u26a7\ufe0f\ud83d\udcaa\u201d  Clonezone Manchester \u2022 #LGBwiththeT (@Clonezone Manchester \u2022 #LGBwiththeT) 1681485781

The Greater Manchester Police (GMP) confirmed the incident in a statement made available to the Manchester Evening News.

At around 9:45 pm last night (Thursday 13 April 2023) Greater Manchester Police were called to reports of criminal damage at a premises on Sackville Street, Manchester, a spokesperson for the GMP said in a statement. Officers attended the scene and an investigation has subsequently been launched to determine the full circumstances surrounding this incident.

City Councillor Pat Karney decried the vandalism against the store.

Second targeted attack on Clonezone last night, Karney posted to Twitter.

\u201cSecond Targeted Attack on Clonezone last night.

Just called to see the staff.

We have valuable information so the Council and GMP will go through our CCTV in the Gay Village and across the city centre.

We will track down these hate criminals.-\u2066@Piccadilly_Lab\u2069\u201d  Pat Karney (@Pat Karney) 1681467310

Despite the attacks, Clonezone remained both defiant and upbeat, reaching out to thank the community for their outpouring of support.

Story continues

Jan 2024 we celebrate 40 years of being loud proud and unapologetically queer on Machesters queer scene, Clonezone posted last month after the first incident, adding they have no intention of closing up shop.

\u201cA massive thankyou for the well wishes & comments after wednesday, the team is fine & we're open as normal

Jan 2024 we celebrate 40yrs of being loud proud & unapologetically queer on Mcr's queer scene & have no intention of being anything other than that

\ud83d\udcaa\ud83c\udff3\ufe0f\u200d\u26a7\ufe0f\ud83c\udff3\ufe0f\u200d\ud83c\udf08

#QueerManchester\u201d  Clonezone Manchester \u2022 #LGBwiththeT (@Clonezone Manchester \u2022 #LGBwiththeT) 1679653615

Anyone with information on the incident should contact the GMP online at www.gmp.police.uk or the outside charity online at Crimestoppers. All tips can be reported anonymously.
Rep. George Santos (R-N.Y.) may be running for reelection but the embattled congressman, under fire for fabricating portions of his resume, isnt likely to get much financial help from his party, a new fundraising vehicle indicates.

Santos seat is one of Democrats top targets in next years elections, but the freshman lawmaker is a notable omission from Protect the House New York 2024, a joint fundraising committee formed to corral money for vulnerable House Republicans in the state.

The committee includes both House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and his leadership PAC, as well as the NRCC, the House Republicans campaign arm, and the New York State Republicans federal PAC. It will raise money for frontline New York Reps. Mike Lawler, Brandon Williams, Marc Molinaro, Anthony DEsposito, Andrew Garbarino, Nick LaLota, according to organization paperwork filed Monday with the FEC.

Joint fundraising committees allow multiple candidates to bundle large amounts of cash from donors while helping defray the costs associated with raising that money.

McCarthys involvement in the effort means that the freshmen lawmakers, whose unexpected strength in last years midterms helped propel Republicans to take over the House, will be able to tap into the speakers fundraising prowess as they try to defend their majority.



Several participants in the joint fundraising committee have called for the resignation of Santos, who faces an ethics investigation over fraud allegations, though McCarthy has declined to do the same.

Asked Monday whether he would support Santos reelection campaign, McCarthy reportedly responded with a laugh and said he would wait and see who else jumped in the race.

Protect the House New York is the latest joint fundraising vehicle for endangered GOP incumbents from the state to leave out scandal-ridden Santos. The NRCC helped launch a joint fundraising committee in February called New York Majority Makers, which includes every Republican representing Long Island except for Santos.

The exclusions come as Santos could use help raising money amid a torrent of controversies: The freshmans first quarter fundraising data released this weekend show Santos campaign raised just $5,333.26, meaning that after handing out more than $8,000 in refunds he is starting a defiant reelection bid in the red.
The Atlanta-area prosecutor investigating efforts by former President Donald Trump and his allies to overturn the 2020 election indicated Tuesday that she has conducted fresh interviews with some of the Republican activists who falsely claimed to be Georgias legitimate presidential electors.

In a court filing Tuesday, Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis noted that her office conducted those interviews on April 12 and April 14, suggesting an active and ongoing investigation. Willis disclosed in the filing that more than one of the false electors had described potential violations of Georgia state law by another one.

Willis is urging the judge overseeing the matter to disqualify the lawyer who represents 10 of the false electors, an arrangement she had previously challenged  with limited success  because of the potential for conflict among the different false electors. Now that some have provided testimony implicating others in potential crimes, Willis office argued, it is no longer tenable for them to share the same attorney, Kimberly Debrow.

It is unfathomable how Ms. Debrow can offer competent and adequate counsel to her client who has been accused of further crimes, Willis argues in the filing.

Its the first whisper from Willis about the probe since January, when she described charging decisions in the investigation as imminent. Her comments at the time followed the conclusion of a special grand jurys investigation into Trump and his bid to reverse the election results. While the special grand jury recommended criminal charges against an untold number of people whose identities remain secret, the panel had no power to issue the charges itself. Instead, Willis must present evidence to a traditional grand jury in order to issue formal charges, which may or may not align with the special grand jurys recommendations.

Willis special grand jury probe stretched for nearly a year as she hauled in a slew of figures in Trumps inner circle, suggesting that her probe went beyond the immediate allegations of potential Georgia election law violations that Trump may have committed. She fought some of those witnesses  from Sen. Lindsey Graham to former chief of staff Mark Meadows to former national security adviser Mike Flynn to Rudy Giuliani  in state and federal courts to secure their testimony. Willis is particularly interested in Trumps Jan. 2, 2021 phone call in which he urged Georgias Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger to find just enough votes to reverse the outcome of the election.

Story continues

Willis concerns about the legal representation of the false electors is not new. She raised an alarm in November that some of them might have different degrees of legal exposure and could be called on to testify against each other or otherwise have interests that would require separate representation. At the time, the judge overseeing the matter, Robert McBurney, permitted 10 of the electors to remain represented by a single attorney. But he agreed to require another, Georgia Republican Party Chair David Shafer, to get separate representation because his degree of criminal exposure appeared to be greater than the others.

The false electors were a key aspect of Trumps bid to remain in power, despite losing the 2020 election. By convening a set of pro-Trump electors in several states Trump lost, his allies pointed to the competing slates of electors to argue that Congress or then-Vice President Mike Pence should pick between them on January 6, 2021, when lawmakers met to count electoral votes and finalize the results of the election. The challenges lodged by Trumps congressional allies failed, and Pence ultimately rejected Trumps repeated insistence that he had the single-handed authority to halt the certification himself, ending Trumps last-ditch bid to stay in power.

Many of the false Republican electors were party activists or chairs in those states, and they helped convene the Republican electors in December, when Bidens certified electors also met to formalize his victory in those states. The false electors in at least five of the Biden-won states  including Georgia  signed certificates claiming that they were the legitimate presidential electors from those states. While many of the false electors have claimed they werent told that they were going to become components in Trumps Jan. 6 plans  only that their actions were necessary to preserve legal challenges  others were more intimately involved with figures in Trumps inner circle.

Many of them have already been subpoenaed by federal prosecutors probing Trumps election gambit as well, and dozens of them were subpoenaed by and testified to the Jan. 6 select committee.

Trump has already been indicted in New York for alleged crimes related to hush money payments and covering up an affair just before the 2016 election. But the Fulton County and federal probe may present more acute legal threats in the long run as prosecutors edge closer to final charging decisions.
Last week, Germany handed over a Patriot anti-aircraft missile system with a load of missiles for it to Ukraine.

Source: the website of the German government; European Pravda

Details: Besides the air defence system and anti-air missiles, the German side provided 16 Zetros trucks and two border patrol cars.

Reminder: Germany promised to transfer one Patriot air defence system battery to Ukraine. One such battery includes from four to eight launchers loaded with four missiles each.

As is known, the USA was the first to announce the transfer of a Patriot system to Ukraine in December 2022 as part of the next military aid package. In addition, the Netherlands will also supply two Patriot air defence systems and some missiles to Ukraine.

At the end of March, the Ukrainian military completed training on the Patriot air defence system in the USA , which was earlier than expected.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
An undercover agent testified and lawyers delivered opening arguments on the second day of the public corruption trial of Andrew Gillum and Sharon Lettman-Hicks.

Gillum, former Tallahassee mayor and the 2018 Democratic nominee for Florida governor, and Lettman-Hicks, his longtime mentor and owner of P&P Communications, are charged with illegally soliciting campaign donations and pocketing them in their own accounts. Gillum also is charged with lying to the FBI about gifts undercover FBI agents gave him during a 2016 trip to New York City.

Here are the latest developments in the trial.

Decoding the indictment ABCs: Guide to the people, organizations in Andrew Gillum trial

Andrew Gillum trial Day 1: Jury selected, possible witnesses and an appeal to raise $1M

Federal prosecutors say Gillum sought donations because he needed the money for himself

Gary Milligan II gave opening arguments to the seated jury for the prosecution. Defense attorney Margot Moss for Andrew Gillum and Mutaqee Akbar for Sharon Lettman-Hicks followed with their opening remarks. An FBI agent was called as a government witness later, but visual representations were barred from the courtroom for his testimony.

Opening the case for the prosecution, Gary Milligan II told jurors that when undercover FBI agents first arrived in Tallahassee in 2015 for Operation Capital Currency, they were focused on John J.T. Burnette, a wealthy developer who was later convicted on bribery charges in the probe.

Thats why this began, Milligan told jurors, adding that Gillum wasnt on their radar screen.

Burnette suggested the undercover agents, who posed as investors with Southern Pines Development, hire Adam Corey, a lobbyist and close Gillum friend, to introduce them to city and county commissioners.

Corey suggested the agents, who wanted to fly under the radar, pay for a fundraising dinner for Forward Florida to give Gillum support without their names appearing on official paperwork. Miller floated the $4,386 cost of the dinner in April 2016.

Back story: FBI undercover agent billed for food, drinks at Andrew Gillum fundraiser, documents show

In August 2016, agents Mike Miller and Brian Butler met with Gillum and Corey in New York City, where they also met Gillums younger brother, Marcus Gillum, for the first time. During a subsequent trip to Nashville, Marcus Gillum allegedly asked the agents for four $25,000 donations to seal the mayors support for four different projects.

Story continues

Milligan said Gillum sent his brother and his friend Sean Pittman, a Tallahassee lawyer, lobbyist and campaign consultant, to talk about donations and local projects.

Hes not having these conversations himself, Milligan said of Gillum. Over and over again (hes) trying to distance himself. He wants something to happen, but he doesnt take responsibility for it.

Former mayor and gubernatorial candidate Andrew Gillum listens with attorney Margot Moss to opening arguments in the Tallahassee federal courthouse Tuesday. At right, co-defendant Sharon Lettman-Hicks listens with her attorney,

Milligan also told jurors, Lets be clear. Andrew Gillum is not charged with bribery. He never took a bribe.

The FBI started to look at the finances of P&P Communications, the firm founded by Gillums co-defendant, Sharon Lettman-Hicks. The bureau saw that Gillum was being paid large amounts of money by P&P, which hired Gillum in 2017 as he was gearing up to run for governor and left his long-time job with the People for the American Way Foundation.

Milligan said P&P defrauded several nonprofits by soliciting a total of $242,500 in campaign donations and funneling the money to her firm to pay Gillum. At the time, he said, P&P had almost no money in its bank account.

Mr. Gillum had a motive for this, Milligan said. He needed the money.

Sharon Lettman-Hicks arrives at the Federal Courthouse for her corruption trial where she is former Tallahassee Mayor and 2018 Democratic nominee for Florida Governor, Andrew GillumOs codefendent Monday, April 17, 2023.

Milligan added that the case wasnt about whether Gillum was a good mayor or not.

This case is not about politics, he said. Its not about whether you liked Gillum or his politics. This case is about deceiving donors  deceiving his own campaign. All to keep the checks flowing to P&P.

Defense lawyers say Gillum, Lettman-Hicks are innocent

Margot Moss, a Miami lawyer representing Gillum, opened by showing photos of Gillum and his wife, R. Jai, and their three kids together.

This case is about what happens when you put a target on someones back, she said. And then they twist and they force the evidence in the direction of the targets. But this is not what our justice system is about.

Flashback to 2017: Gillum pledges cooperation with FBI, says he's not focus of probe

She said Gillums salary at P&P was legitimate money.

The truth is Andrew Gillum is innocent. Thats why he has chosen to go to trial to say loud and clear I am not guilty,  Moss told jurors.

She said Gillum constantly told the agents to separate in their minds the projects they were seeking support for and the campaign donations they wanted to give him. She said Gillum got so upset with the agents after one conversation about donations and projects that he reached out to Pittman, who said in a recorded conversation that quid pro quo talk with Gillum scares the s--- out of him.

CEO of Pittman Law Group Sean Pittman, Tallahassee lawyer and lobbyist, responds to eight questions asked by the Florida State Presidential Search Committee on Friday, May 14, 2021.

Hes just not that way, Pittman told one of the agents. If I even suggested a (quid pro quo), hed tell me to kiss his ass.

She said Marcus Gillum was the troubled kid from Andrew Gillums family, who got in trouble at school and was arrested at a young age. She said Marcus looked up to his brother and wanted to please him.

Hes saying whatever he has to say just so he can go back to his brother and say, I got you a big donation,  Moss said.

One of Lettman-Hicks lawyers, Mutaqee Akbar of Tallahassee, said evidence or bread crumbs in the case prove that she is innocent.

This case is about the governments failure to see the truth even when the truth was staring them in the face, Akbar said.

Defense's portrayal of Gillum draws a warning from the judge

Gillum's defense attorney also sketched out Gillums early life, noting that he was the first in his family to graduate from high school and from a university. She painted a portrait of a young Andrew Gillum as a nerdy little kid who watched U.S. Rep. Maxine Waters, a long-serving California Democrat who is Black, on C-SPAN.

Gillums political success was destiny come true for him, Moss said.

Gillums lawyers, in part, have argued that he was targeted because he was a Black Democrat running for governor.

But U.S. District Judge Allen Winsor, who in December rejected a request to dismiss the charges against Gillum, admonished Gillums attorneys after Tuesdays opening statements.

This case is going to be tried on facts and evidence, not about whether someone grew up poor or whether they were inspired by somebody, Winsor, who was appointed by former President Donald Trump, warned after the jury left the room.

 News Service of Florida

Undercover agent Mike Miller testifies about NYC trip

The government called its first witness, Mike Miller, one of several undercover agents who posed as investors with Southern Pines Development, an FBI front.

Under questioning from Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Grogan, Miller said he and Corey helped plan a trip in August 2016 to New York City with Gillum and his brother. The idea was to get a relaxed Gillum out of town so that he would talk more candidly with agents.

Flashback to 2017: 'Mike Miller': Developer or FBI agent?

'I got you': Texts, emails detail how Adam Corey, FBI arranged trips for Andrew Gillum

During the trip, the agents, including Brian Butler, who posed as a green energy investor, paid for hotel rooms for Corey and the Gillums, tickets to Hamilton, a boat ride around the harbor and dinner and drinks.

After the undercover investigation wrapped, overt FBI agents interviewed Gillum in June 2017 after a ribbon-cutting ceremony in a public park. Gillum allegedly denied that the agents ever gave him anything during the interview.

The agents, Corey and Gillum met at the Hard Rock Cafe in Times Square before the Hamilton show. Miller said he initially planned to get tickets to a Mets game, but the weather was bad.

We made some calls last minute and got some tickets to Hamilton, one of the agents said.

After the trip, Gillum texted Miller.

You guys were excellent hosts!! Gillum said. Ive had a blast. Please extend by deepest appreciation to Brian.

Gillum told agents to keep campaign donations, development plans separated in their 'mind's eye'

Prosecutors played a number of secretly recorded conversations between the undercover FBI agents and Marcus Gillum. During one of the conversations, an agent asked him what his role was in Gillums campaign for governor.

Were not sure, Marcus Gillum said. He just wants me as his right (hand) man. He knows everything I do, and he wants me to be as involved as I can be.

During a meeting in Nashville, Marcus Gillum told undercover agents Mike Miller and Brian Butler that 75 grand would be great to get his brothers approval on three different projects. He said the money would go through another consultant company owned by Sean Pittman.

Under questioning from the government, Miller told jurors that the FBI needed to confirm how much Andrew Gillum knew about what Marcus Gillum was saying. In February 2017, Miller met with Andrew Gillum and his brother at the Ocean Prime restaurant in Jacksonville to talk.

Andrew Gilllum said he would be filing for governor around the first of March. Miller, who was interested in annexing Fallschase from Leon County into the city, said he and his investors could contribute $50,000.

Well, were there, Andrew Gillum said. Well get there. Im good.

Subscriber exclusive: Myers Park, Fallschase and a 'mafia' mentality: Court traces twists in Tallahassee FBI case

The mayor said he had spoken with then-City Manager Rick Fernandez about the citys annexation policy and mentioned that the businessmen would have to apply.

Miller mentioned doing something creative to get donations to the Gillum campaign without the developers names on it. Andrew Gillum changed the subject by bringing up a story in the news about an alligator eating an eagle, Miller told jurors.

The agent testified that Andrew Gillum would not get involved in those conversations about connecting development projects with campaign contributions.

On March 13, 2017, Mike Miller met with Andrew Gillum at Madison Social to catch up. Gillum talked about traveling across the state and country, from The Villages to San Francisco, to raise money.

They passed around a God-damned hat and collected $5,000 at The Villages, a conservative seniors enclave, and bigger sums elsewhere.

Gotta get it, baby, Gillum said. This aint for the faint-hearted. Im excited, man. Later, he said, I become an animal around this (expletive). If youre not an animal, you dont get it.

Gillum said his campaign team did opposition research and found that his friendship with Adam Corey was a liability.

That mother (expletive) dominated the whole conversation, Gillum said.

Miller told Gillum that his brother had upped his request for campaign donations from $25,000 to $75,000 for three projects, including developments at Fallschase and Myers Park.

I hate that he  he should not have correlated at all, Gillum said.

Miller talked about developing a portfolio of properties along South Monroe Street as mixed-use projects, which Gillum said he loved. Miller mentioned he was at the $100,000 level for donations. But Gillum said to separate those things from his minds eye.

Sean Pittman tells agents they spooked Andrew Gillum,

Later that night, Mike Miller and Brian Butler met with Sean Pittman at a local wine bar.

First of all, yall spooked the mayor, Pittman said. I dont know what you did to spook him.

Pittman added that talk of a quid pro quo scares the (expletive) out of (Gillum).

Some people are that way, Pittman said. Hes just not that way. Sometimes, I wish he was. I just want to, No. 1, get the mayor out of it. Hes out. So whatever Marcus said, Marcus is young and hes fun and he may have been repeating something somebody said.

Sean Pittman, Founder and CEO of the Big Bend Minority Chamber of Commerce

Pittman said what the agents needed was someone who can do that (expletive) and that what he needed was someone who could help his candidate, Gillum.

I want him to feel comfortable, Pittman said of Andrew Gillum. And I need you guys to feel comfortable that No. 1, youre helping him, because theres a great chance he can win this thing.

Pittman tells agents he can work with them on 'complicated things'

Pittman suggested the agents work with him directly rather than Marcus Gillum or Corey.

Im the guy you can come to for complicated things, Pittman said. There are people who dont want their names on campaigns that we found ways to get it to the campaign that are legal.

On March 31, 2017, Pittman called Miller to say he was trying to raise $1 million for Gillum by the end of the day and asked whether he could donate $100,000.

Miller told Pittman he would need Gillum to guarantee his support for their projects in return.

Those kinds of guarantees are hard to get, Pittman said. In fact, to some degree, theyre almost illegal to get. Its just not his style.

Pittman said he cant advise (Gillum) to make that call. But he said he liked Miller and that the two of them could talk apples to apples.

At some point, Pittman mentioned hiring him for $5,000 a month and said if anyone could merge campaign donations and projects, he could.

Gillums defense cross-examines agent Miller

Under cross-examination by Gillum lawyer David Markus, Miller acknowledged that the agents never made the campaign donation.

Markus said Gillum always distanced himself from any quid pro quo talk.

Thats what we want politicians to do, right? Markus asked.

Yes, sir, Miller replied.

Former Tallahassee Mayor and 2018 Democratic nominee for Florida Governor, Andrew GillumOs defense attorney David Markus arrives at the Federal Courthouse for jury selection Monday, April 17, 2023.

Markus said none of what the agents discussed with their subjects ever happened.

It turns out a lot of talk about nothing, Markus said.

Correct, Miller replied.

Quotables from Day 2

The News Service of Florida and Associated Press gathered these quotes from the courtroom.

After a year spending tens of thousands of your  taxpayer  money, flying around the country, wining and dining  still theyre trying to get that target,  Gillum defense attorney Margot Moss while accusing the FBI of trying to trap Gillum into lying about campaign-related finances.

This case is not about politics. This case is about deceiving donors (and) stealing from his own campaign.  Prosecutor Gary Milligan II in opening arguments.

Hes just not involved. Andrew Gillum doesnt know the source of the money, doesnt know whether it was obtained by fraud. Lets be real. Andrew Gillum was running for governor, running up and down the state.  Hes not thinking about, Wheres P&P getting my money?  Gillum defense attorney Margot Moss in opening arguments.

"Whether he was the best mayor or worst mayor, it doesnt matter... Theres not going to be any magic moment. Wait and listen carefully.  Prosecutor Gary Milligan II urging jurors to be pay close attention to the evidence in the coming days.

Gavel to gavel coverage

While cameras and electronics are not allowed in the courtroom, stay tuned to tallahassee.com for daily updates from longtime investigative reporter Jeff Burlew (@jeffburlew on Twitter).

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Andrew Gillum corruption trial: Opening arguments, FBI agent testifies
Julie Dunn says some of her company's delivery vehicles will not be compliant until July

A firm says it faces tens of thousands of pounds in penalties as it will not be ready in time to comply with Glasgow's Low Emission Zone (LEZ).

Dunns Food and Drinks said a delay in receiving new delivery vans meant some of its vehicles would not meet emission standards by the time the zone comes into effect on 1 June.

The wholesaler is asking Glasgow City Council for more time to comply.

The local authority said it had taken a phased approach to implementation.

The LEZ was first announced in 2017 as a way to improve air quality.

The zone covers large parts of the city centre, with fines ranging from 60 up to 480 per day for non-compliant cars and light goods vehicles, and up to 960 for buses and HGVs.

Dunns, which has 300 customers within the zone, said it had ordered several compliant diesel vehicles in November 2021 - but would not receive them until July due to supply chain delays.

Operations director Julie Dunn said: "We support any move to improve air quality in city centres, and the introduction of the LEZ is not something that has crept up on us or taken us by surprise.

"We have planned carefully and ordered compliant vehicles that under normal circumstances would have arrived well in time."

Dunns is upgrading its fleet to meet the new emission standards

But she said the world had changed massively in the years since the LEZ was announced.

Ms Dunn explained: "The knock-on effect of the Covid-19 pandemic, war in Ukraine, and the consequent global supply chain issues and domestic worker shortages could not have been predicted.

"To now face potentially tens of thousands of pounds in fines to carry out our day-to-day duties - which are vital to hundreds of businesses in Glasgow City Centre - due to global events outwith our control does not seem right.

"I am confident we are not the only wholesaler facing this situation, and I worry many other businesses could be affected too."

Story continues

And in an interview with BBC Radio Scotland's Good Morning Scotland programme she added "If I have four trucks going into the city that are non-compliant five days a week for the seven or eight weeks that we will be operating before the new trucks arrive that would be around 140,000 of fines."

What is the low emission zone?

All vehicles entering the zone after 1 June will face a penalty charge if they do not meet emission standards.

It covers an area between the M8 to the north and west, the River Clyde to the south, and the Saltmarket/High Street to the east.

In general, petrol vehicles registered from 2006 onwards and diesel engine vehicles registered after September 2015 will meet the required standards.

low emissions zone map

Transport Scotland has set up a website which allows people to check if their vehicle is compliant.

There will be some exemptions from the scheme, including blue badge holders, motorcycles, mopeds and emergency vehicles.

Residents living within the zone will not have to comply until June 2024, and some taxis in Glasgow have also been given extra time to comply.

Aberdeen, Dundee and Edinburgh are also introducing LEZs, but they will not be enforced until 2024.

Stopping deliveries

The Scottish Wholesale Association (SWA) is calling for a grace period for firms struggling to comply in time.

The trade body said it supported the low emission zone in principle but added that the "rapid introduction" would "make it very difficult for our members to operate their business efficiently".

SWA chief executive Colin Smith said: "Our members' businesses could be in jeopardy if they are unable to afford to upgrade their vehicles to LEZ compliant.

"This would mean members pulling out of delivering to Glasgow businesses, potentially reducing competition, and increasing costs to business, residents and tourists as those complying pass on the investment costs to customers in the form of higher prices."

What are the potential penalties?

Glasgow LEZ sign

The owner of any non-compliant vehicle detected within the low emission zone will initially face a fine of 60.

The penalty charge will then double with each subsequent breach, rising to a maximum of 480 for cars and light goods vehicles and 960 for buses and HGVs.

Once that figure is reached, the maximum fine will be imposed for each day that the vehicle enters the zone.

The rate is reset to 60 if there are no breaches for 90 days.

The council says the size of the fine will only start to increase after the vehicle's registered keeper can expect to have received the first penalty charge notice.

All penalties will be reduced by 50% if paid within 14 days.

Number plate recognition

Glasgow City Council put LEZ signs and road markings in place at the end of last year, covering all zone entry points.

Automatic number plate recognition cameras are set to be installed later this month.

A spokeswoman for the city council said: "The Low Emission Zone is an essential measure if Glasgow is to tackle the harmful air pollution that has dogged parts of the city centre for decades.

"Poor air quality presents a serious risk to public health, especially for the most vulnerable, and the LEZ is an essential measure to help bring down pollution levels to a more acceptable level and make our city centre a safer and more attractive place to live, work and visit.

"To give businesses as well as individuals time to prepare, since the LEZ was first announced in 2017, we have taken a phased approach to implementation and there has been an extensive programme of engagement with all those likely to be affected."
A GoFundMe campaign launched to support a Black teenager who was shot in the head by a white homeowner when he accidentally went to the wrong address has soared past $2.6m in donations.

Ralph Yarl, a 16-year-old high school junior, was shot twice last Thursday when he went to pick up his younger twin brothers from a friends house on 13 April.

Kansas City Police said that Ralph had gone to collect his siblings from a friends house on 115th Terrace in Kansas City, Missouri, but got muddled up with the address and accidentally went to a home on 115th Street by mistake.

There, Ralph allegedly rang the doorbell and the homeowner  later identified as 84-year-old Andrew Lester  opened fire on him, shooting him twice.

The Black teenager was rushed to hospital in critical condition while the white homeowner was initially detained  before being released without charge.

On Monday, prosecutors charged Mr Lester with assault in the first degree, which carries a punishment of 10 to 30 years or life imprisonment. He was also charged with armed criminal action, which carries a punishment of three to 15 years.

Earlier protesters, the victims family and a growing number of celebrities had demanded justice for the 16-year-old and for the shooter to be criminally charged.

Donations have been flooding in on a GoFundMe campaign, set up to help pay for the boys recovery.

Police booking photo of Andrew Lester, charged with shooting Ralph Yarl (Kansas City Police)

As of around 4am ET on Tuesday  just over a day after its launch  a staggering $2.6m had been raised.

On the campaign page, a woman who identified herself as Ralphs aunt described the teenager as a fantastic kid who had dreams of doing to Texas A&M University to major in chemical Engineering.

At school, he is a member of the Technology Student Association and Science Olympia Team. Jazz and competition band. He is a section leader in the marching band; a scholar and one of the top base clarinet players in Missouri. He recently earned Missouri All-State Band recognition with an honorable mention. He plays multiple instruments in the metropolitan youth orchestra. He is a 2022 Missouri scholar academy alumni. Ralph can often be found with a musical instrument. He loves them all, the page reads.

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Last summer, Ralph attended Missouri Scholars Academy, where he got a full college life experience. His goal is to attend Texas A&M to major in chemical Engineering.

When asked how he plans to get into this university, he said, Well, if they have a scholarship for music or academics, I know I can get it. Ralphs teacher and friends describe him as  a kind soul, quiet, friendly, well-mannered, always willing to help, super smart, and a musical genius. Ralph was looking forward to graduating high school and finally getting the opportunity to visit West Africa before starting college.

Life looks a lot different right now. Even though he is doing well physically, he has a long road ahead mentally and emotionally. The trauma that he has to endure and survive is unimaginable. He is our miracle. We have heard these types of stories many times, and unfortunately, most black boys are not alive to get another chance.

Ralph Yarl GoFundMe soars past $1m mark (GoFundMe)

Ralph deserves to have the future that he has dreams about. He deserves to be the light that shows the world that LOVE wins and that humanity is still Good. However, he will need a lot of help to get there. Funds from this account will be used for his medical bills and therapy. Any additional funds will be use for college expenses at Texas A&M, a trip to West Africa, and other expenses.

The family described how Ralph had been on his way to pick up his twin younger brothers from their friends house a few blocks from his own home.

He didnt have his phone. He mistakenly went to the wrong house, one block away from the house where his siblings were. He pulled into the driveway and rang the doorbell, the page read.

The man in the home opened the door, looked my nephew in the eye, and shot him in the head. My nephew fell to the ground, and the man shot him again.

Following the shooting, Ralph managed to stumble away to some other homes in the neighbourhood to get help, according to his family.

Unfortunately, he had to run to 3 different homes before someone finally agreed to help him after he was told to lie on the ground with his hands up, the family said.

Civil rights attorneys Ben Crump and Lee Merritt, who are now representing the victim and his family, said that the high school scholar was shot twice  once in the head and once in the arm.

The suspect was initially taken into custody on Thursday and placed on a 24-hour hold.

However, under Missouri state law, a person can only be held for 24 hours on suspicion of a felony before officials must either charge or release them. The suspect was released pending further investigation.

Speaking before the announcement of the charges against Mr Lester, Mr Crump and Mr Merritt  who have previously represented the families of Ahmaud Arbery and George Floyd  condemned the release of the armed and dangerous suspect in a joint statement after taking the case.

In a joint statement, the attorneys said: There can be no excuse for the release of this armed and dangerous suspect after admitting to shooting an unarmed, non-threatening and defenseless teenager that rang his doorbell.

Ralph Yarl lies in hospital bed as he recovers from shooting (Shaun King)

We demand swift action from Clay County prosecutors and law enforcement to identify, arrest and prosecute to the full extent of the law the man responsible for this horrendous and unjustifiable shooting.

After charges were brought on Monday, Mr Crump said in a statement: While this is certainly a step in the right direction, we will continue to fight for Ralph while he works towards a full recovery.

However, Mr Lester has not been arrested and taken into custody.

Hollywood actors Halle Berry and Viola Davis have also spoken out to demand justice for the Black teenager and condemn the lack of charges so far brought against the man responsible.

Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves said at a press conference on Sunday that  due to Ralphs injuries  police had been unable to get a formal statement from the victim. Ralph was discharged from hospital, it was announced on Monday.

While the police chief initially said that there was no evidence to date to indicate that the shooting was racially motivated, Clay County prosecutor Zachary Thompson confirmed in a press conference on Monday afternoon that there was a racial component to the case, although he would not give details on what had caused him to come to that conclusion.

The shooting  which marks the latest in a growing number of shootings of Black people in America  has sparked protests with hundreds marching through the area where the teenager was shot during a rally on Sunday.

Many carried placards reading Black Lives Matter, Ringing a doorbell is not a crime and Justice for Ralph, reported KSHB.
Ralph Yarl was shot on April 13 while trying to pick up his younger brothers. Faith Spoonmore/GoFundMe

The GoFundMe page for Ralph Yarl has reached $2.6 million within a day of its creation.

The Black teenager was shot twice while picking up his younger twin brothers.

Yarl, 16, visited the wrong house, and was shot when someone answered the door.

The GoFundMe page for high school student Ralph Yarl, who was shot twice after ringing the wrong doorbell, has raised more than $2.6 million within a day of its launch.

Yarl, a Black teenager from Kansas City, Missouri, was shot on April 13 while picking up his younger twin brothers, the fundraising page said.

The 16-year-old didn't have his phone with him and went to the wrong block in a middle class neighborhood, wrote Faith Spoonmore, who organized the GoFundMe and identified herself as Yarl's aunt.

Yarl was shot in the head after someone answered the door, and then was shot a second time after he fell the ground, Spoonmore added.

Spoonmore described Yarl as a "fantastic kid" who attended scholar programs, plays the bass clarinet in his school orchestra and jazz band, and is a member of his school's science olympiad team and student technology association.

Yarl also seeks a music scholarship at Texas A&M, where he hopes to study chemical engineering, Spoonmore added.

"Ralph was looking forward to graduating high school and finally getting the opportunity to visit West Africa before starting college," Spoonmore wrote.

The funds raised on the GoFundMe page come from more than 68,000 donations, and have already exceeded the fundraiser's goal of raising $2.5 million. The money is to be used for medical bills and therapy, wrote Spoonmore. Additional funds left over are earmarked for Yarl's college expenses, his trip to West Africa, and "other expenses," she added.

She wrote that Yarl is "doing well physically," but has "a long road ahead mentally and emotionally" to recover from the shooting.

Yarl was released from hospital on Sunday, is able to walk, and is recovering at home, his father told the Kansas City Star.

Story continues

Police on Monday identified the shooter as Andrew Lester, an 85-year-old white man. He is charged with armed assault, the Clay County prosecutor said.

Multiple celebrities and national figures have condemned the shooting.

"Let's be clear: No child should ever live in fear of being shot for ringing the wrong doorbell," Vice President Kamala Harris tweeted.

"A young Black boy HAS THE RIGHT to accidentally go to 115th Street instead of 115th Terrace WITHOUT BEING SHOT," musician Questlove wrote on Instagram.

Spoonmore did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment sent outside regular business hours.

Read the original article on Insider
Gov. Brad Little and Lt. Gov. Scott Bedke were in Idaho Falls on Friday to tout the accomplishments of the 2023 legislative session.

They are substantial, some of them historic, especially when you step back and look at where Idaho is now compared to when Little first took office in 2019.

But backsliding on equal rights, especially for the LGBTQ community, stands out as a black eye on this otherwise impressive record.

In 2011, when he was lieutenant governor, Little chaired a transportation infrastructure task force that identified a huge deferred maintenance backlog. An especially big problem was thousands of decaying bridges across the state. As of now, the state expects to have funding to shore up two-thirds of that maintenance backlog.

When Little took office, Idaho was in the bottom 10 states in terms of starting teacher pay. Now it will be in (or at least near, depending on what other states do) the top 10. Few, if any, governors in America can brag about a turnaround that significant.

This years big achievements  getting starting teacher pay above $47,000 a year, adding nearly $400 million to public education and passing a grant program that will allow Idaho students to get up to $8,000 to pay for community college, all while cutting taxes  will mean vastly better lives for coming generations with a better education, less debt and better job prospects.

Another historic year for education

This years session is the latest in a series of advances in education funding during Littles term in office, including $300 million last year plus nearly $50 million for early childhood literacy.

Increases in teacher pay will pay especially large dividends in areas like Idaho Falls, which are near the border.

In eastern Idaho, teachers have long bled across the border to higher-paying jobs in Wyoming and Utah after gaining a few years of experience. The problem was so bad that former Sen. Jeff Siddoway, an extremely conservative Fremont County Republican and the chair of the Local Government and Taxation Committee, famously vowed to block the passage of any tax cuts until it was addressed during the 2015 session.

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Now the osmotic pressure will be reversed, as starting teachers make more in Idaho than in either Wyoming or Utah. Starting pay will be higher than in any neighboring state except for Washington, according to National Education Association data.

The Launch Program will literally revolutionize what were doing post-K-12, Little said.

And thats probably not an exaggeration. Right now for a kid who cant afford college, who doesnt have a family with a history of college or technical education, the easiest path is to take a low-paying job with limited possibilities for advancement. Now becoming a high-paid welder will be just as easy.

Now we have a vehicle to deliver career technical so that we do the same for plumbers, welders, HVAC technicians, auto mechanics that we do for teachers and lawyers and accountants, Little said.

Luck or skill?

Its tempting to think that Little just got lucky.

He inherited an economy with 7% annual growth, unheard-of in much of the country. It took a hit in 2020 during the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic but quickly rebounded to 12, then nearly 14%. Numbers like that are usually only seen in rapidly industrializing countries.

The economic boom has meant huge budget surpluses that could be used to slash taxes while making investments in schools, child literacy programs, roads, bridges, water infrastructure and many other priorities.

But its not just luck. Little  a lifelong policy wonk  has been singularly effective in making the most of these good times. Setting an investment-focused agenda means that this economic boom  which is temporary, as are all booms  will lay the groundwork for higher sustained levels of economic growth and higher standards of living over the coming decades.

Every school district, every graduating senior, every kid who is getting ready for school and has a better ability to read is going to benefit from the policies that Little has championed.

The campaign against transgender people

Well, almost every kid.

Because the other thing that is growing to shape Littles legacy  something he has not championed but to which he has consistently acquiesced  is Idahos growing and incessant legal persecution of transgender people, especially children.

A yearslong, nationally coordinated campaign of hatred has made Idaho one of its test beds. In 2020, Little signed an obviously unconstitutional bill to prevent transgender people from getting identifying documents that match their gender and a likely unconstitutional bill that banned transgender athletes from participating in sports. This year, he signed a bill that would make it a felony for a doctor to provide the standard of care to transgender children, punishable by up to 10 years in prison.

Several transgender kids testified before the Legislature that this care is the reason theyre alive today. A wealth of data shows that people with gender dysphoria, children particularly, have astronomically high rates of serious depression and suicidality. This is not a matter of wokeness, but of their lives.

I asked Little what these kids should do, now that the health care they rely on has been made a crime.

He urged families with transgender children who rely on gender-affirming care not to leave the state.

Those families that might think about moving ought to think about their  educational opportunities, better jobs, a better way of life and a safe community, he said.

Which is a bit like throwing gold at a drowning man.

The importance of justice

The achievements of Littles term in office are undeniable and will make countless lives better. But to really be great, he has to develop a passion for justice that matches his deep understanding of policy.

When the government intrudes into the most intimate personal decisions that these families have to make  decisions they do not come to lightly and that have overwhelming implications for their childrens mental and physical well-being  those families wont care much about better job prospects or scholarships or safer bridges. Little has a duty to protect those families from infringements on their rights.

But Little hasnt lifted a finger to help them, even as they have become the prime targets for extremists bent on making biblical law into the law of the state.

I did not hear him articulate a clear reason on Friday why he did not stand up for them. I have never heard him clearly state a reason.

Most of Idahos families will benefit materially in significant ways from the agenda Little set and negotiated to completion this session. A few will be torn apart.

And all of us live in a state that is a bit less free than it was in January.

Bryan Clark is an opinion writer for the Idaho Statesman based in eastern Idaho.
TD is being upgraded by CIBC Capital Markets to outperform, from neutral, partly because of the bank's stock underperformance compared to its banking peers. (Photo by Alex Tai/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

Despite recently being crowned the world's most shorted bank, Toronto-Dominion Bank (TD.TO) (TD) got a rating upgrade from analysts at CIBC Capital Markets.

Analyst Paul Holden upgraded Canada's second-largest lender to outperform, from neutral, in a note to clients on Monday, partly driven by better-than-expected earnings from Charles Schwab and the underperformance of TD Bank's stock relative to its peers.

Although Holden trimmed his 12-month price target to $97 per share from $100, he still says this is a good time to be adding to TD.

Schwab, in which TD holds a 12 per cent stake, also addressed a number of potential risks during its latest earnings conference call, the analyst said, which helped ease concerns.

However, TDs large U.S. presence is one of the reasons some investors are betting against the bank.

A recent analysis by S3 Partners found investors had shorted a collective $3.7 billion worth of TDs stock, the most compared to any other bank.

Some investors say they're concerned about the U.S. banking sector after the failures of Silicon Valley Bank and the takeover of Credit Suisse, TD's planned acquisition of U.S. regional lender First Horizon, and its exposure to the Canadian housing market.

However, Holden says there are no signs of major earnings stress among the big U.S. banks that have reported earnings so far, and expects a similar result from TD.

The bank may not shoot the lights out with FQ2 results, but it should also not be highly affected by the liquidity events of March, he says. TD will report its second-quarter results on May 25.

The bank is also eyeing the deadline for its proposed takeover of First Horizon Bank (FHN) on May 27. TD offered to buy First Horizon for $25 per share in early March, but the U.S. lenders stock has recently traded well below that.

We expect TD and FHN will agree to extend the offer and believe that an extension of six months or longer is possible given regulatory uncertainty. As we previously wrote, there are multiple reasons to justify a lower offer price, and we think something around US$22.50 per FHN share is a reasonable expectation, Holden says.

Story continues

Extending the offer at the original price of US$25 would be disappointing for TD shareholders. A longer closing period and a lower price would help address capital concerns for TD.

Michelle Zadikian is a senior reporter at Yahoo Finance Canada. Follow her on Twitter @m_zadikian.

Download the Yahoo Finance app, available for Apple and Android.
Google DeepMinds chief Demis Hassabis has said theres a possibility of artificial intelligence gaining self awareness one day.

Philosophers havent really settled on a definition of consciousness yet but if we mean by sort of self-awareness, these kinds of things, I think theres a possibility AI one day could be, Mr Hassabis said in an interview with CBS 60 Minutes.

While AI systems are definitely not sentient today, according to the Deepmind chief, he said it is one of the fascinating scientific things were going to find out on this journey.

Mr Hassabiss claim comes a year after Google fired a software engineer who claimed its AI had become self-aware and sentient.

Blake Lemoine, an employee at the company at the time, was fired after he said he believed Googles LaMDa AI chatbot was a person.

Mr Lemoine was insistent that the AI system was self-aware, publishing articles on the topic as well as logs of his conversations with the chatbot.

But AI experts on social media denied that any of the public evidence posted by the former Google employee suggested that the system was self-aware.

Many said instead that the system had been trained to use language in similar ways as humans.

Its regrettable that despite lengthy engagement on this topic, Blake still chose to persistently violate clear employment and data security policies that include the need to safeguard product information, Google told Reuters then.

However, before Mr Lemoines public statements about LaMDa, OpenAI chief scientist Ilya Sutskever had tweeted saying todays large neural networks may be slightly conscious.

it may be that today's large neural networks are slightly conscious  Ilya Sutskever (@ilyasut) February 9, 2022

Googles Bard AI chatbot also appears to be self-aware, replying to queries on why it helps people with the response Because it makes me happy.

Story continues

But the search giants Senior Vice President James Manyika told CBS that the AI systems appearance of sentience comes since it has learned from people.

Were sentient beings. We have beings that have feelings, emotions, ideas, thoughts, perspectives. Weve reflected all that in books, in novels, in fiction, Mr Manyika said, adding that its no surprise that it exhibits behavior that looks like someones behind it.

Theres nobody there. These are not sentient beings, he added.
In an interview with CBSs 60 Minutes that aired Sunday, the Google CEO said regulation is necessary to ensure AI is aligned to human values. Pichai said AI will soon impact every product of every company and disrupt jobs, noting that writers, accountants, architects, software engineers and other knowledge workers will feel the biggest impacts, our colleague Karl Evers-Hillstrom reported. Pichai added that without guidelines, AI could be abused by bad actors. The technology could be used to quickly create deepfake videos to spread disinformation and cause a lot of harm at a societal scale, he told CBSs Scott Pelley. How do you develop AI systems that are aligned to human values, including morality? Pichai asked. This is why I think the development of this needs to include not just engineers, but social scientists, ethicists, philosophers, and so on, and I think we have to be very thoughtful. Pichai said that society must collectively decide how AI should be integrated, adding that its not for a company to decide. Read more here in a full report at TheHill.com.
WASHINGTON  Republicans defended Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas on Monday after it was reported that he failed to disclose gifts and a real estate transaction from a billionaire GOP donor.

Justice Thomas has been attacked and excoriated since his confirmation hearing, and I suspect this is just a continuation of that, Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, told HuffPost on Monday.

Ask how many senators have had to do that  ask how many senators have welcomed personal hospitality. I think that would be an interesting story, Cornyn added.

Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), another member on the panel, said he wasnt concerned about the gaps in the conservative justices disclosure forms.

It happens all the time, Kennedy said. Justices... are entitled to have friends.

Thomas has come under fire for not reporting over two decades of luxury travel that he and his wife, Ginni Thomas, took with Texas real estate mogul Harlan Crow, including trips on the donors yacht and private jet. Thomas has said he and Crow are friends.

Last week, ProPublica revealed that Thomas also failed to disclose a 2014 real estate deal to sell properties in Georgia to the billionaire. Thomas mother still lives on one of the properties and doesnt pay rent. Federal law appears to require any real estate deal to be reported on financial disclosure forms.

Thomas is reportedly planning to amend his financial disclosure forms to include the real estate transaction, according to CNN, in an implicit acknowledgment that he should have reported it in the first place.

To the extent that this latest real estate transaction wasnt disclosed, hell amend his disclosure statement, which I think is the right thing to do, Cornyn said Monday.

But the Texas Republican, who once served on the Texas Supreme Court, said he opposed efforts to pass legislation that would require U.S. Supreme Court justices to adopt and follow a code of ethics as well as place additional transparency standards on gifts and travel. The court, he said, is capable of changing their own ethics code.

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Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), meanwhile, accused Democrats of racism by singling out Thomas for failing to report financial ties to a Republican billionaire donor, even though theres no evidence of other Supreme Court justices failing to report such arrangements.

The left has always had a special derision for Justice Thomas because hes a Black man who dares to be a conservative, Cruz said.

Only one GOP senator, Mitt Romney of Utah, told HuffPost on Monday he had concerns about Thomas failure to disclose his ties with Crow.

If the reports are accurate, it stinks, Romney said. When pressed to elaborate, he added, I dont have to explain more than that.

Democrats have vowed to respond to the Thomas revelations, but their power, in this case, is limited. The Supreme Court polices itself.

Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), a vocal critic of dark money and GOP efforts to install conservative judges on the judiciary, on Monday laughed off Republican attempts to wave away the Thomas controversy.

They know hes a billionaire, right? Whitehouse said of Crow. They know hes politically active. They know hes filed briefs in the Supreme Court. This is a guy whos interested in the court, and not as a casual observer. So I think that puts the extraordinarily Rococo extravagance of these gifts into a very different category than just wildly generous personal hospitality.

He added. Theres a lot more going on when you mix the cocktail of right-wing billionaires, dark money, amenable justices and the law.

Related...
Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) on Monday criticized a U.S. district judges unprecedented ruling suspending approval of a drug that is most widely used for abortion care and miscarriage in the United States.

After 20 years of FDA approval that he would be questioning a womans ability again to have a say over her reproductive health, Im quite concerned about it, Murkowski told HuffPost.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved mifepristone, one of two drugs used in medication abortion, in 2000. Its been safely used by millions of pregnant Americans for over two decades.

But earlier this month, right-wing Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk in Texas said that the FDA rushed the approval process for mifepristone in order to greenlight elective chemical abortions on a wide scale. He ordered its suspension nationwide.

The matter is now being appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court, which has put Kacsmaryks order on hold until it can consider the case. A separate federal judge in Washington state also issued a competing ruling this month that blocked the FDA from removing mifepristone from the market in 17 states and the District of Columbia, where abortion is legal.

Murkowski, one of two GOP senators who support abortion rights (along with Susan Collins of Maine), voted with nearly every one of her colleagues to confirm Kacsmaryk after he was nominated by President Donald Trump.

Asked Monday if she would still support him today, the Alaska Republican said she probably would not.

When I had an opportunity to look at his record and vetted him, he demonstrated to me he had the credentials as a judge, Murkowski said, noting that she also voted to confirm the federal judge who issued the competing order in Washington state.

Kacsmaryks credibility has come into question in recent days. According to an article in The Washington Post, he took his name off a 2017 Texas Review of Law and Politics article and failed to disclose his work on the article to the Senate Judiciary Committee, which requires nominees to disclose all publications by nominees before the panel. The article criticized protections added during the Barack Obama administration for transgender people and those seeking abortions.

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Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) said he didnt approve of hiding information from the Senate Judiciary Committee.

I dont think anybody should do that, but I havent independently verified that information or looked into it, Cornyn, a member of the panel, told reporters on Monday. The process only works if we have candor and truthful answers, so thats significant.

Still, its not like Kacsmaryks anti-LGBTQ+ and anti-abortion views werent known publicly before his nomination. Collins, the lone Republican who opposed Kacsmaryks nomination, warned about his far-right views in a statement in 2019:

A number of Mr. Kacsmaryks writings and interviews indicate an alarming bias against the rights of LGBTQ Americans and disregard for Supreme Court precedents. For example, Mr. Kacsmaryk has dismissed proponents of reproductive choice as sexual revolutionaries, and disdainfully criticized the legal foundations of Roe v. Wade. He has described the campaign for same-sex marriage as typified by lawlessness, and he has derided the Supreme Courts Obergefell opinion.



Such extreme statements reflect poorly on Mr. Kacsmaryks temperament and suggest an inability to respect precedent and to apply the law fairly and impartially.

Related...
Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and other officials were on the defensive Tuesday as Senate Republicans became more vocal about their efforts to back impeachment for the secretary.

Mayorkass appearance before the Senate Homeland Security Committee sparked the usual heated exchanges and personal attacks now common in such forums, but the GOP posture escalated as Sen. Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) pledged to soon introduce a vote of no confidence resolution for the secretary.

House efforts to launch an impeachment of Mayorkas have been simmering for some time, with GOP lawmakers arguing he has failed to successfully manage the border amid an uptick in migration. But an official inquiry has yet to be launched, and those efforts have recently taken a back seat to debt ceiling talks.

But Marshall on Tuesday suggested a need to buoy that process in the Senate, where it is expected to make little progress given the Democratic majority.

I stand at the ready to receive articles of impeachment from the House and conduct an impeachment trial in this body, Marshall said. But in the meantime, I think the Senate must show our colleagues in the House that weve had enough of the failures from the Department of Homeland Security and believe that the Secretary is not fit to faithfully carry out the duties of his office.

Mayorkas at one point attempted to respond, asking to take a point of personal privilege, but Marshall objected, saying, I want you to answer my questions, not give me lectures.

Mayorkas, given an opportunity by the next speaker, Sen. Tom Carper (D-Del.), declined to respond.

I just want to take a moment to ask my colleagues here today to treat the secretary with the respect he deserves, Carper said, noting Mayorkass integrity, work ethic and dedication to a complex job.

I was raised  my guess is most of the folks in this committee were raised  to treat other people the way we want to be treated. I wouldnt treat anybody the way that Ive seen you treated before in other committees and again here by at least one of our colleagues today.

Story continues

At other turns during the hearing, GOP lawmakers sought to hold Mayorkas personally responsible for various issues at the border.

Do you not care? Do you not just have an ounce of human compassion for what your open border policy, the kind of human deprivation it is causing? Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) said.

Mayorkas would later defend the Department of Homeland Securitys (DHS) efforts to stem migratory flows, pointing to a program that largely blocks nationals from Haiti, Nicaragua, Venezuela and Cuba from seeking asylum but allows those with U.S. sponsors to apply to enter the U.S.

Various GOP lawmakers zeroed in on a recent New York Times article delving into the extent Biden administration officials were aware unaccompanied children were being trafficked into child labor.

The care of children who arrive at the border without their parents spans multiple agencies, with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) responsible for vetting the sponsors who ultimately care for them.

At one point, Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), who has also called for Mayorkass resignation, accused Mayorkas of pressuring officials and agencies to skip the vetting process and get these kids out as soon as possible to sponsors who werent vetted.

The Times story does not reference Mayorkas and primarily focuses on the roles of HHS and high-ranking White House officials in the matter.

Senator, I look forward to discussing this issue further because you are misstating the facts so terribly, Mayorkas responded.

Mayorkas also shot back when Hawley accused him of letting thousands of children into the country to be exploited, pointing to a Trump-era policy of separating parents from their children.

It is stunning to me, stunning, to hear you say that the prior administration reunited children with their parents, Mayorkas said.

Mayorkas at another point said lawmakers, including Johnson, were disparagingly mischaracterizes our commitment to address trafficking and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals, including children.

Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) offered a defense of Mayorkas and DHS, saying that senators must not forget the role of corporations hiring the migrant child labor outlined in the Times investigation.

It is the employers breaking child labor laws, Padilla said. We should not misplace the blame here.

Mayorkas was one of several officials called before Congress on Tuesday to discuss immigration-related matters.

HHS officials appeared before both the Houses Energy and Commerce and Oversight committees, while Immigration and Customs Enforcement Director Tae Johnson appeared before House appropriators.

Much of the discussion with Johnson surrounded the number of detention beds funded through the ICE budget, a figure that determines the extent the agency is able to house people in detention centers versus other means of supervision. President Bidens budget cut detention capacity by about a quarter.

At various points during the hearing, Johnson said he would like to see funding for a greater number of beds than covered in the budget but acknowledged that the agency simply would not be able to detain all those who may be slated for deportation.

Rep. Michael Guest (R-Miss.) said that would undercut the administrations ability to remove people from the country as their immigration cases work their way through the court system.

If its easier to remove people once theyre in detention, and youve agreed with that, and I agree with that, but yet we have a budget which is actually shrinking detention beds. I find that counterproductive, Guest said.

As these additional cases work their way through the system, were going to see those numbers grow exponentially. And it just doesnt seem to me that we either dont have the resources or we dont have the policies in place to enforce the law.

Johnson said even when the agency has rapidly expanded the number of beds in the past we filled those beds up in no time.

So I personally dont think theres a number of beds that you can actually buy thats going to solve this problem that were seeing, he said.

At another point, Johnson was asked about the agencys Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) unit, which works to combat cartels and other transnational crime.

Rep. Lauren Underwood (D-Ill.) pointed to reporting that HSI staff at one point proposed separating from ICE, arguing the agencys reputation made it difficult to carry out their work.

Johnson said he opposes siphoning off the unit, but backs giving them flexibility to minimize their affiliation with ICE, saying efforts like removing the ICE part of their email address has proven helpful.

One of the things we did this year was to give HSI the flexibility to use whatever branding they felt was necessary to increase cooperation in the communities. So in other words, if removing the ICE moniker completely and just using the HSI brand was going to result in greater cooperation, they had the flexibility to do so, he said.

But Underwood said those moves failed to address the underlying problem.

ICE has the responsibility to proactively and intentionally build trust in the communities that you serve, she said.

And so I think that this is an area where the agency definitely needs to do more.

Nick Robertson contributed reporting

Updated: 2:28 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A crew with The Ocean Cleanup retrieves a large ghostnet from the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. The Ocean Cleanup

The Great Pacific Ocean Patch refers to a big swirling soup of plastic in the ocean.

A new study found the patch was full of sea life that was living on the plastic debris.

The findings challenged the assumption that coastal species couldn't survive in the open ocean.

The Great Pacific Garbage Patch is more than just a swirling vortex of plastic floating in the open ocean over 1,000 miles from land  it's also become an ecosystem hosting a variety of sea creatures that cling to the debris.

Scientists studying the infamous trash heap have found dozens of marine species that call the patch home, according to a study published Monday in the journal Nature Ecology & Evolution.

They found 46 different species of invertebrates living on the debris, with the vast majority being species that are typically only found along coastlines, rather than the middle of the open ocean. The creatures included sponges, oysters, anemones, crustaceans, barnacles, and worms.

The Great Pacific Garbage Patch typically refers to an area of the Pacific Ocean between California and Hawaii in which floating trash concentrates due to factors like wind and currents. The area  which is more like a giant trash soup rather than one large continuous heap  has become an unfortunate example of plastic pollution in Earth's oceans.

The researchers collected 105 pieces of floating garbage from the patch and examined them for signs of life, ultimately identifying 484 invertebrates organisms. More than 70% of the trash collected was carrying coastal species.

"We expected to find some; we just didn't expect to find them at such frequency and diversity," study co-author Linsey Haram, then a postdoctoral research fellow at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, told The Atlantic.

The findings also contradicted the assumption that coastal species could not survive in areas of open ocean.

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The authors said the results suggest the lack of available surface "limited the colonization of the open ocean by coastal species, rather than physiological or ecological constraints as previously assumed."

The Great Pacific Garbage Patch refers to areas of marine debris concentration in the North Pacific Ocean. NOAA Marine Debris Program

"They're having a blast," study coauthor Matthias Egger, head of environmental and social affairs at The Ocean Cleanup, told The Wall Street Journal of the coastal species living on the trash. "That's really a shift in the scientific understanding."

The study also noted that many of the coastal animals were living alongside animals that are at home in the open ocean on the same piece of debris, putting together species that historically were unlikely to come into contact.

Biogeographer Ceridwen Fraser at the University of Otago, who was not involved in the study, told The Atlantic: "As humans, we are creating new types of ecosystems that have potentially never been seen before."

Read the original article on Business Insider
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP)  The recently reinstated Rep. Justin Jones carried an infant-sized casket into Tennessee's Capitol as protesters calling for gun safety legislation outside the Capitol were blocked from bringing caskets inside.

After passing troopers and security, Jones was then barred from bringing the casket onto the House floor, briefly passing it off at the doorway to fellow Rep. Justin Pearson, who was also recently reinstated.

Demonstrators led by Bishop William Barber II had marched in Nashville on Monday, demanding that lawmakers pass the gun safety legislation and stop using their authority to trample democracy. They carried several caskets symbolizing those lost to gun violence on Monday.

The legislators are back, but returning duly elected lawmakers to their seat does not solve the problem, Barber said, demanding that lawmakers stop committing policy murder.

The fatal shooting of six people at a Nashville private school last month kicked off a stream of calls for changes to Tennessees gun laws, including a ban on assault weapons, tougher background checks and a red flag law. Republican Gov. Bill Lee has urged lawmakers to pass legislation that would keep firearms away from people who could harm themselves or others. So far, the Republican supermajority has refused.

Reps. Jones and Pearson, both Democrats, returned to the GOP-dominated General Assembly last week after being ousted for their role in a pro-gun control demonstration from the House floor. The episode has turned Tennessee into a new front in the battle for the future of American democracy and pressured lawmakers to address gun control in a state known for its lax firearm regulations.

On Monday, when protesters were blocked from bringing caskets into the Capitol, Jones carried an infant-sized casket inside and walked with protesters, including Barber, through the building. When he reached the House chamber, the sergeant-at-arms stopped Jones from bringing it onto the floor. As Jones entered the chamber after the session and tried unsuccessfully to get the attention of Republican House Speaker Cameron Sexton, Pearson held the casket at the door. When Sexton left, he stopped for a moment to speak to a few protesters.
Seven Palestinians were injured in an Israeli army operation in the occupied West Bank, the Palestinian health ministry said Tuesday, hours after two Israeli men were injured by gunfire near a Jewish site in annexed east Jerusalem.

The shooting comes amid a period of deadly attacks and military raids across the West Bank, along with killings in Israel.

The Palestinian ministry reported six people with "minor injuries from live fire" had gone to Jenin governmental hospital, while another person shot had been admitted to a nearby hospital following the raid in the northern West Bank city.

A statement from the Israeli military confirmed that an operation was underway in the Jenin refugee camp, without giving further details.

Earlier Tuesday, Israeli authorities said a suspected Palestinian gunman had wounded two Israeli men in the Sheikh Jarrah neighbourhood of east Jerusalem after firing at their car.

"Police officers are at the scene conducting searches for the suspect who fled," the police said in a statement.

Israeli security forces closed off streets in the neighbourhood, where an AFP journalist saw officers entering a Palestinian home, with a drone and helicopter as well as police dogs aiding the search.

Officers enforcing the shutdown prevented cars and people from moving in the centre of the neighbourhood, as heavily armed forces combed the area.

Police announced they had found the perpetrator's gun near the scene of the attack, which took place near the tomb of Simeon the Just -- Shimon Hatzadik in Hebrew -- a site frequented by religious Jews.

The weapon was identified as a Carlo makeshift submachine gun, which Palestinians manufacture in the West Bank.

Hadassah hospital said they received a 48-year-old gunshot victim lightly wounded, and Shaare Zedek medical centre said it was treating a man in his 50s in moderate condition.

- Rising death toll -

The search was punctuated by the 10:00 am (0700 GMT) two-minute siren marking Israel's Holocaust Remembrance Day, honouring more than six million Jews killed by the Nazis during World War II.

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Jerusalem mayor Moshe Lion, speaking at a city hall ceremony, said one of the Holocaust's main lessons was "to never be helpless in the face of those seeking to harm us".

Later in the morning, most of the security forces had left Sheikh Jarrah, with roads reopened and traffic flowing as normal, the AFP journalist said.

Sheikh Jarrah was the focal point of protests against the eviction of Palestinian residents by Israeli settler organisations in the build up to and during the May 2021 war between Israel and Gaza militants.

It is also the site of a weekly Israeli demonstration against the occupation of the Palestinian territories.

The attack took place a day after a Palestinian woman stabbed and moderately wounded an Israeli man at the Gush Etzion junction in the southern West Bank.

The woman was shot by security forces and taken to hospital in moderate condition.

The conflict has this year claimed the lives of at least 96 Palestinians, 19 Israelis, one Ukrainian and one Italian, according to an AFP count based on Israeli and Palestinian official sources.

These figures include, on the Palestinian side, combatants and civilians, including minors, and on the Israeli side, mostly civilians, including minors, and three members of the Arab minority.

rsc-jjm-rox/des
Gunmen suspected to be Fulani herders have killed 33 people in an attack on a farming village in northwest Nigeria's Kaduna state, where intercommunal herder-farmer violence is common, a local official told AFP Tuesday.

The assailants stormed Runji village in Zangon Kataf district at around 1900 GMT on Saturday, opening fire on residents and torching homes as people tried to flee, Francis Sani, administrative chairman for the Zangon Kataf area said.

"We buried 33 people killed in the attack on Sunday, including women and children," Sani told AFP by telephone.

"The attackers, who are no doubt Fulani herdsmen, also burnt more than 40 houses in the village before they were confronted by soldiers and vigilantes who were alerted," he said.

Six people were also injured in the attack, which happened three days after a similar attack in nearby AtakNjei community killed eight people, Sani added.

Insecurity will be one of a major challenges for President-elect Bola Tinubu, who won the presidential ballot in February marred by technical problems and oppostion claims of vote-rigging.

In a statement on Sunday, Samuel Aruwan, Kaduna state internal security affairs commissioner confirmed the attack in which "several lives were lost", without giving details.

He said an unspecified number of houses were burnt and some residents injured in the attack, which he condemned as "unacceptable and unjustifiable."

Predominantly Christian Southern Kaduna where Zangon Kataf lies is a hotbed of tit-for-tat flare-ups between Fulani herders and pastoral farmers.

The area has for several years been wracked by deadly conflict between herders and farmers over grazing and water rights.

The conflict has spiralled into broader criminality with gangs of so-called bandits, comprising mostly herders,carrying out deadly raids on villages to steal livestock, kidnap for ransom and burn homes after looting them.

There has been an increase in tit-for-tat killings between the bandits and vigilante groups set by local communities in recent times, prompting the state authorities to attempt peace negotiations.

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Authorities and security analysts have expressed concern over alliances between the bandits, who are motivated by financial gains, and jihadists waging a 14-year-old insurgency in the northeast.

That conflict has killed around 40,000 people and displaced more than two million more since 2009, though militants have been pushed back from territory and towns that they once held.

abu/pma/ri
Since the U.S. militarys withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021, stories about the evacuation and resettlement of interpreters have seemingly become vogue.

These tales of eye for an eye rescues between interpreters and their American counterparts have found their way of late into Hollywood as an increasingly covered genre of American heroism. Guy Ritchies latest film The Covenant is no exception.

The story follows U.S. Army Sgt. John Kinley (Jake Gyllenhaal) and his Afghan interpreter Ahmed (Dar Salim) as they rather reluctantly save one another and become accidental heroes along the way.

To me, it was a parable, Gyllenhaal told Military Times. It was about doing good reluctantly. I think selfless service is an idea that is really interesting.

When Ahmed is introduced, Kinley remains wary of him despite the fact that Ahmeds first act is to save his unit from an ambush that had been coordinated by another interpreter. Things take a turn, however, when a mission to uncover a substantial weapons cache goes awry, leaving Kinley shot by Taliban fighters in the process.

Ahmed, rather begrudgingly, attempts to save his life. The interpreter, who has a pregnant wife and lost a child at the hands of the Taliban, has a special immigrant visa, or SIV, for his family on the line. But as the story progresses, it becomes increasingly obvious that altruism is the play.

I love that there are two characters who dont like each other very much, Gyllenhaal added. They do it out of a duty. They do it out of the sense of goodness that is inside of us.

Because the Taliban is hunting the pair, Ahmed must avoid the main roads to get Kinley back to base. In doing so, he pushes the mostly unconscious American in a wagon up mountains and across unrelenting desert terrain.

The scenes, after some time, begin to feel reminiscent of Sisyphus, forced by Zeus to unsuccessfully push a boulder up a hill for all eternity.

From Kinleys perspective, the sequence is an opium-induced fever dream, highlighted by hazy images and rhythmic music that seem to blur day and night. Eventually, the pair finally achieve salvation at the hands of another Army platoon.

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Kinley is sent home to recover, but Ahmed is, predictably, left behind to fend for himself. Thousands of miles away, Kinley soon resolves to save Ahmeds life.

In a booze-fueled sequence, Kinley attempts to navigate the legal channels necessary for securing Ahmeds visa, spending brutal hours on the phone as the grating hold music plays on loop.

All the while, Ahmed, his wife, and his newborn son are forced to hide, moving every few days as the Taliban continues to hunt them.

The moral dilemma for Kinley becomes whether or not the debt of life that he owes Ahmed is worth risking everything to save him. He grapples with a creeping desire to push it out of his mind until his sense of duty  the idea of a covenant  overcomes him.

As audiences might expect with any action movie, all is well that ends well. A wild action sequence ensues that seemingly spells certain doom for both heroes, right up until the last moment when fate  also known as an outlandish American helicopter rescue  intervenes.

This film ultimately depicts a positive end for an Afghan interpreter or ally who manages to escape an oppressive regime hellbent on punishing anyone who helps coalition forces. In reality, many remain behind, hiding, waiting for SIVs and living in constant fear of retribution.

The U.S. military mantra of no man left behind is one that was proven to include significant grey area for numerous allies during the Vietnam War, and has similarly been critiqued in the wake of troop withdrawals from Afghanistan in August 2021.

There are currently more than 150,000 Afghan SIV applicants  many of them allies, interpreters, and their families  hoping to escape the Taliban-run nation, the Biden administration estimated to Foreign Policy.

Guy Ritchies The Covenant is in theaters on April 21.
If dealing with the constant threat of violent criminal gangs and kidnappings in Haiti wasnt bad enough, try finding a reasonably priced fare to fly out of the country to Miami on American Airlines.

The U.S.-based carrier, which had reduced its direct flights to Haiti even before the COVID-19 pandemic threw air travel into a tailspin, is planning to cut back its once-a-day flights to Port-au-Prince from seven days to six starting next month.

The reduction comes as travelers flying out of Port-au-Prince on American see one-way tickets priced at more than $3,000 for a flexible business class seat, which sometimes is the only seat available. The high fare has Haitians in sticker shock as they admit to being confused by the phenomenon and accuse the airline of price gouging.

Stealing money from people fleeing a war zone should be illegal, John Cazeau tweeted.

Cazeau, who lives in Boston but owns property in Fort Lauderdale, is flying JetBlue on Thursday for $292 from Boston round trip. He said in a follow-up interview with the Miami Herald that the fares being charged for Haiti travel make no sense.

They are applying the same economic principles of the western world to a destitute and failed state, he said. Imagine AA asking Ukrainians to pay $3,400 to fly out of a war zone ....How can AA justify that fair? Please enlighten me.

Earlier this month, American began flying a much smaller Airbus 319 with 128 seats, instead of a Boeing 737-800 with 172 seats, on its Miami-Port-au-Prince route. The loss of the 44 additional seats was felt almost immediately as one-way flights out of the Haitian capital shot up to anywhere between $1,091 with a weeks planning to $3,404 for a last-minute airfare. Meanwhile, tickets from Miami to Port-au-Prince are as low as $124.

Laura Masvidal, a spokeswoman for American Airlines, said the change to an Airbus A319 was a decision that was made as part of the continuous evaluation of our network and available resources.

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We are currently operating one daily flight between MIA and PAP. Due to soft demand on our MIA-PAP service, on May 9 we will reduce our service to six weekly flights until August, she added.

In comparison, JetBlue, which shows no available seats out of Port-au-Prince into Fort Lauderdale until May 3, has $589 one-way tickets out of the Haitian capital. After late May the cost drops to $160 one way. Low-cost Spirit Airlines, the only other U.S.-bound airline flying out of Port-au-Prince, also has no seats available until May 4. The one-way price on that day into Fort Lauderdale, however, is $1,043.

With such high airfares, U.S.-bound travelers are either forced to dig deep in their pockets, use frequent-flyer miles if they have them or fly to the Dominican Republic via Haitis Sunrise Airways. A Miami-bound ticket onboard a bigger American Airlines flight from Santo Domingo to Miami is $257 for a basic economy next Tuesday and $493 for business class.

The reduction in American Airlines service and the lack of availability of seats on other carriers have coincided with a higher demand among Haitians looking to fly out of the country, especially those who have qualified to travel to the United States under President Bidens recently launched two-year humanitarian parole program. The program allows nationals of Haiti, Cuba, Nicaragua and Venezuela to temporarily migrate to the U.S. if they have an approved financial sponsor.

Haitis Tourism Minister Cassandra Francois told the Herald that the government is very concerned about the high fares and cutbacks, and she is currently in talks with the airlines to add more flights. On Tuesday, Francois said she spoke with the representative of American Airlines for Haiti regarding the high cost of its tickets compared with the rest of the Caribbean region.

The representative, she said, informed her that the airlines needed the Boeing 737-800 for long haul destinations and therefore replaced it with the smaller AirBus.

As a result, the company increased the prices in proportion to high demands from Haiti. That is not fair to the potential tourists, she said.

Knowing that there is not a high frequency of flights to Haiti, in comparison to other destinations in the Caribbean and regarding the high demand, this situation impacts our economy and demotivates the diaspora, Francois said. They just need more planes.

She said she plans to ask American in a follow-up meeting to not only reduce the ticket prices but to add another flight, even if it is a small plane, in order to have two flights per day.

Francois said she also spoke with a representative of Spirit Airlines to see about the possibility of adding another flight on its Fort-Lauderdale to Cap-Haitien route during the summer, given that it is the only U.S. based-carrier that services the northern Haitian city. We welcome American Airlines to do the same, she said.
More than half of congressional Republicans are asking the U.S. Supreme Court to allow a lower court ruling revoking the Food and Drug Administrations approval of mifepristone to stand, a contrast with the partys attempts to publicly ignore and downplay the judicial battle over access to abortion medication.

The amicus curiae brief, filed by Americans United for Life, has the signatures of 147 GOP members of Congress, including 23 senators and 124 House members. Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), one of the few Republican senators to openly praise the ruling, is the lead Senate signer. Rep. August Pfluger (R-Texas) is the lead House signer.

The Supreme Court is considering a Justice Department request to stay the ruling handed down by U.S. District Judge Matt Kacsmaryk, a Texas-based nominee of former President Donald Trump. Kacsmaryks ruling, which revoked the FDAs approval in 2000 of the safe and widely used drug, has faced heavy criticism from Democrats for restricting abortion rights and from pharmaceutical companies for threatening the authority of the FDA.

The Supreme Court has an historic opportunity to protect women and girls from the dangers of chemical abortion drugs, Steven Aden, the chief counsel at Americans United for Life, said in a statement announcing the brief. The FDA has deregulated these drugs at the expense of patient safety.

Amicus curiae briefs (Latin for friend of the court) are regularly used by members of Congress to weigh in on issues before the court.

Since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wades guarantee of abortion rights last year, Republicans have found themselves facing an intense political backlash even as they seek to further limit abortion access. Public surveys show a clear majority of Americans want abortion medication to remain legal, and the GOP has largely avoided commenting on Kacsmaryks ruling.

In a statement Tuesday afternoon, Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.) blasted her congressional colleagues who signed on to the brief.

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I am astounded by my Republican colleagues cruel disregard for womens right to control their own bodies, their eagerness to defy the American people by asking a court to deny patients access to an FDA-approved drug, and their complete indifference to how overruling the FDAs experts with an unprecedented ruling by a sole federal district court would upend the agencys authority to do its job and threaten patients ability to get so many other critical medications, Murray said.

Last week, Murray led congressional Democrats own amicus curiae brief asking the Supreme Court to grant the Justice Departments request. Every Democratic senator signed the brief except Joe Manchin of West Virginia, and all but 10 House Democrats also signed on.

Related...
Hollywood actors Halle Berry and Viola Davis have spoken out to demand justice for a Black teenager who was shot in the head by a white homeowner in Kansas City.

Ralph Yarl, a 16-year-old high school junior, was shot twice last Thursday when he accidentally went to the wrong house to pick up his younger twin brothers.

The teenager spent four days in hospital while the white homeowner  84-year-old Andrew Lester  is still walking free.

Mr Lester was finally charged on Monday afternoon with assault in the first degree, which carries a punishment of 10 to 30 years or life imprisonment, and armed criminal action, which carries a punishment of 3 to 15 years, but has not been taken into custody.

Protesters have been demanding justice for Ralph and a growing chorus of celebrities are weighing in on the case, voicing outrage over the shooting and the treatment of his accused attacker.

Berry posted Ralphs image on Twitter and urged her Twitter followers to contact the local prosecutor to urge him to bring charges against the homeowner.

His name is #RalphYarl and Im sick and tired of this feelingmy heart completely broke when I learned this precious 16-year-old, who accidentally rang the door of the wrong address in an attempt to pick up his siblings, was shot in the head by a man who didnt want him on his property. This innocent child is now fighting for his life, she wrote.

This could be your child. This should NOT happen. Please do something today! Join me and please contact Prosecutor Zachary Thompson and demand an immediate arrest and bring the appropriate charges: Building: James S. Rooney Justice Center Address: 11 South Water Street, Liberty, Missouri 64068 Phone: 816-736-8300 Fax: 816-736- 8301 Email: prosecutor@claycopa.com

Fellow Black actor Viola Davis also took to Instagram to demand action.

ALL HANDS ON DECK!! she wrote, directing people to the posts of civil rights attorneys Ben Crump and Lee Merritt.

Actor Kerry Washington wrote on Twitter: Instead of waiting around for #LoveIsBlindmake a phone call. For #RalphYarl. Demand that Prosecutor Zachary Thompson make an arrest and bring the appropriate charges. 816-736-8300.

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Instead of waiting around for #LoveIsBlindmake a phone call. For #RalphYarl. Demand that Prosecutor Zachary Thompson make an arrest and bring the appropriate charges. 816-736-8300  kerry washington (@kerrywashington) April 17, 2023

Supermodel Naomi Campbell, actor Amy Schumer and model and TV personality Chrissy Teigen also shared Instagram posts about the case as they all rallied behind the family of the 16-year-old boy now fighting his injuries in hospital.

A GoFundMe launched to help pay for the boys medical bills had topped $2.6m by Tuesday morning.

His name is #RalphYarl and Im sick and tired of this feelingmy heart completely broke when I learned this precious 16-year-old, who accidentally rang the door of the wrong address in an attempt to pick up his siblings, was shot in the head (1/3) pic.twitter.com/4VaZo7EFVE  Halle Berry (@halleberry) April 17, 2023

Actor Gwyneth Paltrow wrote on Instagram: #RalphYarl accidentally rang the doorbell of the wrong house in KCMO. He was trying to pick his younger siblings. The white owner of the hours shot this Black child in the head. He shot him again as Ralph bled out. The shooter is free. No charges. This is America.

Kansas City Police said that Ralph had gone to collect his siblings from a friends house on 115th Terrace in Kansas City, Missouri, on the evening of 13 April.

Police said that the teenager got muddled up with the address and accidentally went to a home on 115th Street by mistake.

There, Ralph allegedly rang the doorbell and the homeowner opened fire on him through a glass screen door using a .32 caliber revolver.

Prosecutors said that there is no indication Ralph and the homeowner exchanged any words with each other before the shooting unfolded and there is no footage of the encounter.

Ben Crump and Lee Merritt, the prominent civil rights attorneys now representing the victim and his family, said that the aspiring Texas A&M University student was shot twice  once in the head and once in the arm.

According to a probable cause statement, Mr Lester told police he was in bed when he heard the doorbell ring and so he grabbed a handgun.

When he saw Ralph, he claimed he was scared to death at the boys size and feared he was unable to defend himself given his elderly age.

He claimed he thought the boy was trying to break in and so shot twice through his exterior glass door, the documents state.

However, Ralph told police from his bed at Childrens Mercy Hospital that he did not pull the door  but only pressed the doorbell.

He said he was waiting at the door when the man opened it and immediately shot him.

He fell to the ground and was shot a second time, he said.

After being shot, he said he heard the shooter warn him: Dont come around here.

In the GoFundMe, Ralphs family wrote: The man in the home opened the door, looked my nephew in the eye, and shot him in the head. My nephew fell to the ground, and the man shot him again.

Following the shooting, Ralph managed to stumble away to some other homes in the neighbourhood to get help.

Unfortunately, he had to run to 3 different homes before someone finally agreed to help him after he was told to lie on the ground with his hands up, the family said.

He was rushed to hospital where the family said he was listed in critical condition.

On Monday (17 April), Ralph was released from hospital and had returned home to recover there.

Ralph Yarl (pictured) was shot twice on 13 April (Ben Crump Law via AP)

The suspect was initially taken into custody on Thursday and placed on a 24-hour hold.

However, under Missouri state law, a person can only be held for 24 hours on suspicion of a felony before officials must either charge or release them. Mr Lester was released pending further investigation. The charges were announced later by Clay County prosecutor Zachary Thompson in a press conference on Monday afternoon.

Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves said at a press conference on Sunday that  due to Ralphs injuries  police had been unable to get a formal statement from the victim.

This was also contradicted by Ralphs attorneys who said that the teenager gave an interview from his hospital bed on Friday.

While the police chief initially said that there was no evidence to date to indicate that the shooting was racially motivated, Mr Thompson said while announcing the charges that prosecutors did believe there was a racial element.

The shooting  which marks the latest in a growing number of shootings of Black people in America  has been branded a hate crime by the victims family and has sparked protests in the city demanding justice.

Hundreds of residents took to the streets of Kansas City on Sunday to march through the Northlands area where the teenager was shot.

Many carried placards reading Black Lives Matter, Ringing a doorbell is not a crime and Justice for Ralph, reported KSHB.

A pregnant family friend of Ralph Yarls parents told The Kansas City Star that she fears for her unborn child.

How do you protect a Black kid? said Patience Gaye.

Ralph Yarl lies in hospital bed after being shot twice (Shaun King)

What are we supposed to do now? We left our countries because we dont want to be killed. Thats why we left. They came to America for a better life. How is this a better life?

Speaking before the charges were announced, Mr Crump and Mr Merritt  who have previously represented the families of Ahmaud Arbery and George Floyd  condemned the release of the armed and dangerous suspect in a joint statement after taking the case.

In a joint statement, the attorneys said: There can be no excuse for the release of this armed and dangerous suspect after admitting to shooting an unarmed, non-threatening and defenseless teenager that rang his doorbell.

We demand swift action from Clay County prosecutors and law enforcement to identify, arrest and prosecute to the full extent of the law the man responsible for this horrendous and unjustifiable shooting.

A woman who identified herself as Ralphs aunt described 16-year-old Ralph as a fantastic kid in the GoFundMe campaign.

At school, he is a member of the Technology Student Association and Science Olympia Team. Jazz and competition band. He is a section leader in the marching band; a scholar and one of the top base clarinet players in Missouri. He recently earned Missouri All-State Band recognition with an honorable mention. He plays multiple instruments in the metropolitan youth orchestra. He is a 2022 Missouri scholar academy alumni. Ralph can often be found with a musical instrument. He loves them all, it reads.

Last summer, Ralph attended Missouri Scholars Academy, where he got a full college life experience. His goal is to attend Texas A&M to major in chemical Engineering.

When asked how he plans to get into this university, he said, Well, if they have a scholarship for music or academics, I know I can get it. Ralphs teacher and friends describe him as  a kind soul, quiet, friendly, well-mannered, always willing to help, super smart, and a musical genius. Ralph was looking forward to graduating high school and finally getting the opportunity to visit West Africa before starting college. Life looks a lot different right now.
An assistant principal with the Hays Consolidated Independent School District was arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated and evading arrest earlier this month, according to county jail records.

Julia Rosales, an assistant principal at Lehman High School, was arrested on April 7 and was released on a $2,000 bond, according to jail records with Hays County.

Hays CISD said Rosales is still employed and working with the district at this time since the incident did not happen in connection with any type of school function or involve any students.

A district spokesperson said the human resources department is conducting its own investigation, which could result in some type of action regarding her employment depending on the results of the investigation. A decision about Rosales' employment could also come after the criminal investigation.

The spokesperson said the district's official HR policy is that "an arrest does not establish that the alleged criminal conduct occurred, and no person shall be disqualified from District employment solely on the basis of an arrest. However, the District may make an employment decision based on the conduct underlying the arrest if the conduct makes the individual unfit for the position in question."

Any employee with the Hays County school district accused of drunk driving is not allowed to drive students while there's a pending criminal investigation, the spokesperson said.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Hays CISD assistant principal charged with DWI, evading arrest
Homemade red velvet cupcakes, strawberry crunch pound cake and lunch lady butter cookies will meet a DJ, hourly gift drawings and giveaways at the newest grand opening in Five Points.

Sweet GGs Bakery will officially cut the ribbon on its new location on Saturday, April 22.

The bakery was formerly located on Fort Jackson Boulevard but closed its doors in October 2022 when the building was bought out. Owners Nayo and Devon Harvin have spent the past several months renovating the Five Points location in anticipation of this weekend.

Nayo Harvin has been baking since 2012, specializing in custom orders and handmade items. Her bakery, Sweet GGs recently opened in Columbias Five Points.

The popular bakery has served up goodies in Columbia since 2012.

Though Nayo Harvin has been a professor at South Carolina State University since 2010, both of her grandmothers baked, and she said she has always had a knack for the skill.

She entered a festival in Sumter in 2012 just because baking was a fun hobby. One friend handed her $40 and asked her to make her sons birthday cake. Slowly, she did more custom orders and was able to open up her first storefront on Fort Jackson Boulevard in 2021.

A customer walks into Sweet GGs bakery, which recently opened in Columbias Five Points.

I know its rare to actually make the leap from working at home to having a storefront, so I just feel fortunate, Harvin said.

As a tribute to her grandmothers, Gertrude and Geneva, the name Sweet GGs was born.

This is just a little thing that makes me feel like I still have a connection with them, Harvin said.

A custom cake from Sweet GGs Bakery in Five Points.

The couple balances the workload, with Nayo Harvin doing most of the baking, and Devon making icing, pies and getting the new storefront customer-ready.

This does not work without him, Nayo Harvin said. Were in this together.

Most days, Harvin gets up at 5 a.m. to start baking before making the hour commute to teach graphics, manufacturing and African American history courses in Orangeburg. Though its exhausting to balance, she said she loves both jobs.

Nayo Harvin has been baking since 2012, specializing in custom orders and handmade items. Her bakery, Sweet GGs recently opened in Columbias Five Points.

Thats what you do when you want to build something, Harvin said. You have to sacrifice sleep for now so that you can build.

At the old location, most of Sweet GGs business came from returning customers. In the month that Sweet GGs has been softly open in Five Points, the bakery has already seen more foot traffic.

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Those who have already tried Harvins creations have turned into loyal customers.

A custom cake from Sweet GGs Bakery in Five Points.

Telisa Tapp discovered Sweet GGs two years ago when she was looking for a bakery to make her husband, Melvin Tapp, a custom 75th birthday cake. Because he was a pastor, she requested the cake to look like one of his Bibles, which he annotates in yellow sharpie.

It was so real looking that I thought it was one of my old Bibles, Melvin Tapp said.

It was the most beautiful cake, Telisa Tapp said. It was perfect.

A custom cake from Sweet GGs Bakery in Five Points.

Theyve frequented the shop every other week since. Their favorite items are the strawberry, coconut and key lime cakes, but they said the friendly customer service and atmosphere is what makes Sweet GGs so standout.

Nothing compares, Telisa Tapp said. Theyre head and shoulders above other bakeries.

Customers can expect to find all of Sweet GGs baked goods as well as a DJ, hourly drawings for gift cards and free giveaways at 631-B Harden St. on Saturday for the official grand opening. Ten percent of all sales that day will be donated to the Ronald McDonald House of Charities in Columbia, and anyone who brings in a donation from the Ronald McDonald House wish list will get 10% off their order total.

Sweet GGs grand opening is just the latest in a slew of other recent openings in the Five Points area, including:
Pamela Walker, mother of Jayland Walker, wipes away tears during a news conference Monday at St. Ashworth Temple Church of God in Christ after Attorney General Dave Yost announced the Akron officers who fatally shot Jayland won't face criminal charges.

Most of Jayland Walker's family didn't speak at a news conference that dealt with their continued trauma. They had a chorus to do so for them.

And that group stated loudly what Walker's mother, Pamela, and sister, Jada, could not or would not.

Pam Walker sat behind her lawyer Bobby DiCello for much of a 45-minute news conference at the St. Ashworth Temple Church of God in Christ mostly looking straight ahead, shell shocked. Her daughter, Jada, sat with clenched hands for much of the time while her right leg released significant energy from constant bouncing up and down.

Jada didnt say a word. Pam Walker only said a few.

More: Akron Public Schools to close Tuesday following grand jury decision in Jayland Walker case

Although she reacted with an occasional nod, the most significant words of the early evening came when U.S. Rep. Emilia Sykes said, Jayland should be here today.

Pam Walker replied with an audible, Yes, he should.

Jada Walker, Jayland Walker's sister, is comforted by Akron NAACP President Judi Hill during a press conference Monday at St. Ashworth Temple Church of God in Christ.

The sentiment was one everyone in attendance  Black, brown and white  seemed to agree upon after a special grand jury elected not to indict eight police officers in the June 27 shooting death of 25-year-old Jayland Walker, who was hit 46 times.

The Rev. Robert DeJournett, a relative and the pastor of St. Ashworth, acknowledged the Walker family isnt doing particularly well.

More: 'Seen it too many times': Akron community reacts to decision in Jayland Walker shooting

Our hearts are hurting. Yeah, our hearts are heavy. We talked about peace. Pamela and Jada are not feeling peaceful right now, he said. We're not advocating violence at all, but we don't feel peaceful. They're broken into pieces. We talk about being calm. How can we be calm when the injustice we believe has happened? And this is a sad, sad day for our family and our community.

Decision on police in the Jayland Walker case creates anger

There was anger after the grand jury decided the eight Akron police officers who shot Walker after a car and foot chase shouldn't face criminal charges. But its an emotion that some said can be channeled into something positive.

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The Rev. Raymond Greene Jr., executive director of The Freedom BLOC, a group focusing on Black leadership, issued a call to Black men for unity.

Anger is an emotion that is felt when a wrong is done to you, Greene said. And this wrong is done to us too many times to the city of Akron: board up everything that you want to do. But we are coming. To my friends, to my brothers, to Black men: we need you. To gang members in the city of Akron: we need you.

The Rev. Raymond Greene Jr., executive director of The Freedom BLOC, speaks as U.S. Rep. Emilia Sykes and Teresa R. LeGrair, president and CEO of Akron Urban League, listen during a press conference Monday at St. Ashworth Temple Church of God in Christ.

There is one clear and present enemy in the city, in this county and the state, in this country, and their name is Jim and Jane Crow, he said, and, and we'll not rest until we put them to bed.

Judi Hill, president of the Akron chapter of the NAACP, reiterated a call to the Akron Police Department to end frivolous traffic stops and car chases.

More: Akron police to launch internal probe into Jayland Walker case, won't name officers involved

We need to let them know that enough is enough. The only change that's ever really happened in this country is out of chaos, she said. I'm not going to use the word 'peaceful.' I'm sorry. Right now, my head is saying, change. Yes, change has to happen. And this is the start, folks. So young people, I said it earlier in a video to you, do your TikToks, get on Facebook, keep it smart, safe. Do what you need to do to keep up the heat. We don't want them to think that you get away with this again.

What does justice look like for Jayland Walker's family?

Sykes said she would formally ask the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice to investigate Walkers death.

They don't have to, but I do hope that they are listening to the voices of Ms. Walker, to the voices of this community and take it upon themself to find the will to investigate what happened not only with Mr. Walker, with Jayland, she said, but the patterns and the practices of the Akron police that would allow for officers to feel like they could shoot 90 rounds, hitting a young man 46 times and then handcuffing him afterwards.

Walker family lawyer DiCello said he thought it was a possibility, courtesy of conversations he'd had with a couple of prosecutors, that indictments would come in some fashion.

Now I'm not bringing the prosecution and I didn't see the evidence, but I saw what I saw on TV today, and that's what I'm commenting about, what I saw on TV  Jayland didn't have a chance if what I saw on TV was given to the grand jury, he said.

Denied redress by the state of Ohio, the Walkers legal team will file a civil lawsuit between June 1 and June 25, he said.

Attorney Bobby DiCello accompanies Pamela Walker, left, mother of Jayland Walker, and U.S. Rep. Emilia Sykes as they enter a press conference Monday at St. Ashworth Temple Church of God in Christ in Akron.

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Jayland Walker family reacts after grand jury clears Akron officers
Photo Illustration by Luis G. Rendon/The Daily Beast/HBO/Reuters

The Greeks would be pleased with Barrys fourth (and final) season, which has reaffirmed a long-held truth about this show: It is the literalization of those famous faces of Grecian drama, the laughing-and-crying masks representing the muses Thalia (comedy) and Melpomene (tragedy). Once a comedy with a lot of darkness, the HBO marvel has evolved into something haunting, sorrowful even. Yet when those laughs do comeand thank goodness, they still dotheyre just as smart, surprising, and revealing as ever.

In Thalias corner in this, Barrys final season, is Mr. Gene Cousineau (Henry Winkler). After his heel turn in Season 3, in which he sold out his former student/current hitman Barry Berkman (Bill Hader) to the Feds as revenge for killing his girlfriend Janice Moss back in the first season, Mr. Cousineau is salivating over his newfound attention.

He wants so badly to be a good person, Winkler tells the Daily Beasts Obsessed, about where we first find Mr. Cousineau this season. He makes a promise to Jim Moss [played by Robert Wisdom] not to talk to anybody. [Jim and Cousineau] are going to keep the memory of his girlfriend, of Janice, sacrosanct.

But shutting up is tough for Cousineau. Make that a double when fame is on the line. Of course Cousineau can only keep his promise to Jim for not even two episodes before baiting a story-hungry Vanity Fair reporter into sitting through his one-man show, in order to learn Cousineaus version of what led to Barrys arrest. By the time this hilariously self-indulgent moment happens, near Episode 2s end, its only surprising that it didnt happen earlier.

Barry Season 4 Premiere Recap: Cousineau Makes a Fatal Mistake

He can't help himself, Winkler says. He is addicted to the spotlight, the way my youngest granddaughter is addicted to Cadbury eggshe fights tooth and nail [against it], and of course the spotlight wins.

That spotlight is delectable for not just Cousineau, but us watching as well. With the bulk of this half-hour spent on heavier thingsSallys (Sarah Goldberg) gutting visit to Barry in jail; the revelation that Barry has given up Hank (Anthony Carrigan) and the Chechens in exchange for a get out of jail free cardCousineaus majorly narcissistic mistake is almost a breath of fresh air. Even though both we and he know that what hes doing will piss Jim right off, watching Cousineau seize the chance to tell a rapt audience the story of the last several months of his life is undeniably fun.

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It helps that Winkler gives this monologue his award-winning all. Embodying Barry, Cousineau pitches and slows his voice down, adopting a loping gait. In his telling, that dumb hitman was begging our hero, Gene Cousineau, to notice him, and Cousineau took him in from the goodness of his heart.

As for where that impression even came from, Winkler explains it in charmingly peculiar terms. Bill has an upper lip, kind of, he says so I started there, and then out of that came the voice as I was rehearsing it.

Henry Winkler on Barry, The Fonz, and How He Invented Imposter Syndrome

Thankfully, Hader was not offended, Winkler adds. In fact, he kept pushing Winkler further to nail Cousineaus tour-de-force of a scene. [As a director,] Bill takes me on that journey, in terms of Gens performance, he says. What does he want? Bring it down. I want more of it. Now youre in it, and youve got knee pads on, because youre just working so hard telling this story.

Hader even made sure the crew was spraying Winkler down, the actor tells us, to achieve Cousineaus intensely sweaty look. All of this kept both us and the reporter, alone in the audience, absolutely, hysterically enthralled. An impression, no matter how good, is the sincerest form of flattery, after alland a helluva thing to watch.

Merrick Morton/HBO

But this may be the last ounce of sincerity we could see from Cousineau going forward. Letting a journalist share his version of the Barry Berkman story with the public isnt going to end well. And no matter how the public receives it, Winkler says Cousineaus desire to share the story at all was the final straw in many ways.

I dont think he ever cares about other people, [but] he cared about Barry, Winkler says. He saw him as the son that his real son even wasnt to him. Barry filled that space.

With Barry still behind barsfor nowand Cousineau doing the one thing Jim told him not to do, its safe to say that no one is filling that space for our favorite acting teacher any more.

Barry airs Sunday nights on HBO at 10 p.m. ET.

For more, listen to Henry Winkler on The Last Laugh podcast.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now.

Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now.
Jimmy Kimmel said Donald Trump revealed one of his worst ideas yet when he spoke over the weekend at the National Rifle Associations annual convention.

And its one thats become a rallying cry among the right for years: arm teachers to stop school shootings.

Hes so dumb, Kimmel said. What a remarkably stupid and dangerous idea, arming the teachers. Let me tell you something: If my teachers, when I was in school, had guns, my Spanish teacher wouldve shot me at least 15 times. I would not be here tonight.

Trump also echoed a call from others on the right for more armed guards in schools  but Kimmel pulled a tragic real-life example from recent history to show the flaw in that idea.

In Uvalde, the school district had its own police force, he said, referring to the mass shooting at Robb Elementary School in which a gunman killed 19 children and two teachers. It doesnt make a difference, but of course these people keep forgetting to mention that.

See more in his Monday night monologue:
A three-mile stretch of Highway 99 through west-central Fresno will undergo a major facelift starting next year, and the price tag for the work is estimated at about $400 million.

The Fresno City Council, at its meeting Thursday, will consider revisions to an agreement with the California Department of Transportation, or Caltrans, that will encompass the freeway work between Clinton Avenue and El Dorado Street, just south of the Highway 180 interchange.

The extensive work calls for reconstructing the highways concrete pavement and rebuilding several bridges, as well as closing two sets of on- and off-ramps at Belmont and McKinley avenues and improving the Olive Avenue interchange with the freeway. Caltrans also plans to acquire additional right-of-way property to allow for widening the freeway from its current configuration of three lanes in each direction to four.

The existing pavement within the project limits is deteriorating, cracking, and settling so much that pavement rehabilitation is needed, according to a project statement on the Caltrans District 6 website.

Construction is expected to start in late 2024 and continue into 2029.

Closing the Highway 99 on- and off-ramps from Belmont and McKinley avenues without replacing them will reduce the number of traffic interchanges for drivers. They wont be reopened because they are too close to other ramps to provide safe entry and exit to the freeway, creating traffic congestion during peak commute hours, according to a staff presentation to the council.

Highway 99 truck route extension on list of changes

But closing the Belmont ramps will also erase part of what is currently considered an important route for commercial truck traffic serving industrial businesses in the area of Palm and Belmont avenues, including Producers Dairy and La Tapatia Tortilleria, said Andrew Benelli, Fresnos city engineer, in a report to the council.

The removal of the Belmont Avenue entrance and exit ramps from State Route 99 will require trucks that want freeway access to use a different route, Benelli wrote. Caltrans is recommending that H Street between Divisadero and Fresno streets be designated as a truck route, as the preferred alternative to minimize impacts to adjacent neighborhoods.

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Benelli added that Fresno Street is already a designated truck route between G Street and Highway 99, so the state is recommending extending the truck route on Fresno Street east to H Street, on the east side of the Union Pacific Railroad freight rail tracks.

Another change that drivers will eventually confront is a new interchange at Olive Avenue that will include traffic roundabouts on Olive, both east and west of the freeway to connect to the on- and off-ramps for both the northbound and southbound highway lanes.

An improved sound wall to shield nearby Roeding Park from the adjacent freeway noise is also part of the rehabilitation project.

Caltrans reports that it expects its property acquisition for right of way to add future lanes and its design work for the project to be completed by April 2024, with construction commencing in the fall of 2024.

Work on the Olive Avenue and El Dorado Street bridges is set for stage one of construction from the fall of 2024 through 2025, including the new Olive Avenue roundabouts and connections to adjacent local streets.

Throughout most of 2026, scheduled work includes the permanent closure of the Belmont and McKinley ramps in February. The McKinley Avenue bridge over Highway 99 will be widened, and the existing Tielman Avenue bridge over the freeway will be removed and cul de sacs built on either side of the freeway.

Rebuilding the freeway lanes with new concrete pavement is planned for 2027 on new outside lanes while keeping three inside lanes moving in each direction. From late 2027 and throughout 2028, work will shift to the rebuilding the inner lanes as traffic moves to the outer lanes.
The former Democratic candidate said people are more onto  Mr Trump than during the last two elections. (AFP via Getty Images)

Hillary Clinton has insisted Donald Trump would not be re-elected even if he wins the Republican nomination to run for president next year.

The former Democratic candidate said people are more onto him than during the last two elections.

Ms Clinton added that he has a hard core of support which will help him secure the Republican nomination. But, speaking to Sky News, she said: In a general election against president Joe Biden, I do not believe he can win.

People are more onto him and his behaviour than they were before.

Ms Clinton went on to say she believes Mr Biden will be re-elected no matter who he comes up against. The 75-year-old branded Mr Trumps main Republican rival Ron DeSantis unproven, adding that nobody really outside of Florida knows very much about him.

She added: In Florida they are watching him do crazy things. So I actually believe that president Biden will be re-elected regardless of who the Republican nominee is.

Ms Clinton praised Mr Bidens record in office, including garnering support for Ukraine, uniting Asian countries against Chinese aggressiveness and passing major legislation through congress. She said: Look what hes getting done.

She said: We are living back in a time when a lot of people expect their leaders to be performers, not producers. Ms Clinton added that Mr Biden is not a performer like Boris Johnson or Mr Trump, and thank God for that.

Dismissing criticism of Mr Biden, who would be 86 at the end of a second presidential term, as too old to run for re-election, Ms Clinton said: I feel like I could do the job. Im in my mid-seventies.

Ms Clinton lost the 2016 presidential election to Mr Trump after a campaign dubbed the most bitter in recent American history by The New Yorker.

She spoke to Skys Beth Rigby at Belfasts Queens University, where she is chancellor, for a three-day conference to mark 25 years of the Northern Irish peace deal.

Former Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams, former UK prime minister Tony Blair and former Irish PM Bertie Ahern spoke on Monday, addressing the anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement.

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Ms Clinton, Barack Obamas former secretary of state, also urged the US and Nato to do much more to supply the planes and anti-aircraft missiles Ukraine needs amid Russias ongoing invasion.

Ukraine is getting enough help to be able to withstand the Russian invasion. It needs to get enough help to repel the Russian invasion, she said.

Ms Clinton warned that Russian president Vladimir Putins brutality knows no bounds. The Russians are taking enormous losses. I want to keep the pressure up and make it even more on the Russians because as we now look at the available information, they could get more brutal in terms of the air defence, she said.

Thats why the Ukrainians need more help to repel that, she added.
Valeria Cortez had high hopes when she decided to attend Sacramento State in 2019.

A native of San Jose, Cortez had struggled to find a Latino community in her high school of 3,000 students. That would soon change, she thought.

Cortez envisioned a university where she would find faculty who shared similar backgrounds, the inclusion of Latino indigenous authors in the curriculum and spaces where she could feel comfortable practicing her Spanish.

Sacramento State seems to offer that environment.

In 2015, Sacramento State was recognized as a Hispanic-Serving Institution, making it eligible for millions of dollars in federal grants.

That status and funding has coincided with the schools Latino population increasing to 38%. The institution as of this year is one of 30 in the country with a Seal of Excelencia  a certification highlighting a commitment to Latino students and their successes.

But Cortezs time at Sacramento State suggests the university may not fully be living up to its name. Now a senior, Cortez is still searching for that community she longed for in high school.

I havent experienced any of that, Cortez said. Im still hoping, by the time I graduate, I find that community within the school.

Interviews with Latino faculty, administrators and students reveal that Cortez is not alone in her feelings. Many raise concerns, saying Sacramento States HSI label is not synonymous with addressing student needs. And some are leading the charge for the designation to take on more meaning.

In an open letter last month, Heidy Sarabia, an associate professor of sociology, called the current state of the university unacceptable.

Sac State is failing as a Hispanic Serving Institution, it is failing our faculty, our staff, and our students most, wrote Sarabia.

Its a Hispanic-enrolling institution

The Sacramento State HSI discussion comes amid a nationwide increase in these institutions. In 2021-22, there were 572 institutions across the country that met the definition, according to the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities.

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California has more than any other state, with 174 HSIs.

The rise is attributed to an overall increase in the enrollment and concentration of Hispanics in colleges around the country. For some, it raises questions about how well schools are serving Latino students.

I dont know if any institution that is an HSI is living up to the name of being a serving institution, said Amber Gonzalez, an associate professor of child and adolescent development at Sacramento State.

The HSI label, Gonzalez said, is solely numbers-based. HSIs must have a student body that is at least 25% Hispanic. And though grants are focused on Latino and low-income students, the federal government does not require they specifically benefit Hispanics.

Since 2015, Sacramento State has been awarded $16.5 million in HSI federal funding.

Manuel Barajas, a professor of sociology, does not mince words about the universitys HSI status and questions how it was given that label.

Of course, its not a Hispanic-Serving Institution, said Barajas. Its a Hispanic-enrolling institution.

For Barajas, the problem starts and ends with faculty representation.

When Barajas arrived at Sacramento State in 2002, Latinos made up 7% of the faculty. Twenty-one years later, they make up 8%. Latinos also face the largest ratio disparity of students to faculty of all racial and ethnic groups.

However, Barajas says even that 1% increase is deceiving.

In 2004, Latinos consisted of 8% of the tenured faculty. In 2020, they decreased to 4.5%. Tenure density is vital, according to Barajas, because part-time work is insecure and low-paying.

Students do not see a reflection of who they are, their accents, styles or backgrounds among the faculty Theres a positive correlation with having mentorship that looks like you and academic success, Barajas said.

Theres also issues with retention. Barajas and Gonzalez both shared multiple experiences of Latino professors leaving the campus for other opportunities.

Barjas did a survey of 12 Latino professors in 2020 across different departments to get a better understanding of their belonging. His final question asked if they envisioned remaining at the university until retirement.

All 12 professors said they had no plans of staying at Sacramento State.

University leadership

Sacramento State President Robert Nelsen believes the university is living up to its HSI name, but acknowledged that the representation statistics are concerning.

Its important that we increase the number of faculty and were dedicated to doing that, Nelsen said. We want our faculty to look like our students.

He highlighted the last two years of hiring. Last year, the school hired 63 faculty, 17% of which were Latino. Nelsen said its not enough, but will be built on.

Nelsen also pointed to Sacramento States history of supporting the Latino student population including its college migrant assistance program, the second oldest in the nation. The campus also offers a Dreamer resource center for undocumented students, and a Serna Center to enhance Latino leadership and civic engagement.

Those resources and support have earned the institution a rare Seal of Excelencia.

That is one of the most prestigious fields there is, Nelsen said.

Carlos Nevarez, interim provost and vice president of academic affairs, has been working with Nelsen to address the gaps in equity. Nevarez is currently the highest-ranking Latino on campus, and makes up the 1% of Latino administration at the school.

Non-traditional hiring practices have been his focus, Nevarez said. We need to rework, rethink, reframe the way we do hiring to ensure that were providing opportunities for individuals like myself, Nevarez said.

To truly serve students, Nevarez said, the university must ensure students feel a sense of belonging and advance their successes. He prioritizes graduation rates as an important marker, noting they have increased significantly in recent years. In 2012, the four-year graduation rate was 9% for Latinos. The rate rose to 28% by 2018.

Whats ahead for Sac State?

It took three years for Cortez to learn of Sacramento States HSI designation.

In the fall of her junior year, she was scrolling through Instagram when an online flyer caught her attention. The posting was calling on Hispanic students to participate in a project examining the needs of Latinx students on campus and their perception of the university as a HSI.

Cortezs interest in social justice and change led her to apply, and she ultimately became one of two dozen students involved in the research project.

The two-year project is set to culminate this May and is co-led by Gonzalez. The projects main goal is to identify how Sacramento State can better serve Latino students. The results highlight a need for more faculty representation, Latino and indigenous culture in the classroom and continued outreach of available resources.

Its not to say Sac State isnt doing anything. They are. But this is our way of saying how can we make it better? said Cortez.

In Cortezs eyes, an easy fix would be updating curriculum and and textbooks. She pushed for classroom materials that showcase people of color, specifically individuals that would empower her as a Latina.

Professors, like Sarabia, believe that diversity in the classroom can be built upon with the establishment of a Latinx/Chicanx or Latin American studies major. She hopes the major can lead to the eventual creation of an entire campus department.

A department where we can exercise that kind of leadership that is needed, that kind of power that is needed to continue to move forward, Sarabia said.

Nelsen, who retires at the end of the academic year, has even bigger goals for the university. I hope that we dont have another white, bald president here, Nelsen said.
After the latest atmospheric river event contributed to the resurrection of a "ghost lake," flooding nearby towns, residents in the path of snowmelt from the Sierra Nevada are waiting for the other shoe to drop.

The train of storms that slammed the West Coast over the winter into March filled parched reservoirs and revived the depleted snowpack. However, while the surplus of water provided an oasis amid a historic megadrought, snowmelt from the Sierra Nevada could contribute to more long-lasting concerns for flood-prone towns.

Experts have pointed to the southern Sierra Nevada snowpack, which drains into the San Joaquin Valley, as a particular area of concern. Gauges have already started to show some runoff, but it's just the start of what will likely play out as intense spring flooding, Jeffrey Mount, a senior fellow at the Water Policy Center at the Public Policy Institute of California, told AccuWeather National Reporter Bill Wadell.

The snowpack held 317% of its historical average as of April 12, and local authorities have warned they have only a short amount of time to prepare for a spring runoff from years' worth of snowmelt delivered over the course of only a few months.

"In the southern Sierra, you're looking at about three years' worth of total runoff [that] is now frozen in place up there in those mountains, and it's going to come down into a system which is absolutely not designed to handle it," Mount said.

One of those areas is the Tulare Basin in the southern San Joaquin Valley, an area that has no outlet to the ocean. Instead, the water travels to what was once Tulare Lake -- where now small towns and farmland occupy the drained lakebed.

The agricultural town of Allensworth, which has a history of periodic flooding, is among those currently at risk from the impending snowmelt.

Founded in 1908, Allensworth was California's first town established by African Americans, though its population is now predominantly Hispanic. As its population fluctuated over the years, now home to nearly 600 people, it has frequently been referred to as "the town that refuses to die."

Story continues

However, the same holds true for the drained watershed it was built upon.

GET THE FREE ACCUWEATHER APP

Locals refer to Lake Tulare as a "ghost lake," as water levels at the drained lake will occasionally refill during particularly wet years. However, before the area was developed for agriculture and the rest diverted for irrigation, it was once the largest freshwater lake in the western United States, fed by snowmelt from the Sierra Nevada.

Years of heavy rainfall and snowmelt call forth the ghost of the lake, however, haunting the residents with damaging floodwaters. This happened in 1983 and 1997 -- both years that experienced very strong El Nino events.

Residents prepare for this specter not with salt and crucifixes but with sand and heavy machinery.

A BNSF locomotive pulls train cars past flooding in the Central Valley during a winter storm in Tulare County near Allensworth, California, on March 22, 2023. (Photo by PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images)

When the water returned once more in mid-March, Jose "Chepo" Gonzales, 50, worked to mitigate the reach of the flooding as his father had before him nearly 45 years earlier in 1979.

"I got to do like my dad did then," Gonzales told the Los Angeles Times as he moved sand with a small tractor to help build a berm. He added that the repairs his father had made to stop a leak in the banal bank were still visible today.

Roughly 20 miles to the northwest, the city of Corcoran has all eyes on the levee that stands between the revived Lake Tulare and the city's streets.

"The primary concern right now is that water level is at 178 feet. We have a levee that's 188 feet," Corcoran City Manager Greg Gatzka told Wadell. "We know more water is coming. If that water is going to get too high on top of this levee, we have the situation where that levee can start deteriorating and get compromised, which is our biggest concern and biggest fear."

Kings County, where Corcoran is located, declared an emergency on March 10 and activated its emergency operations center on March 21. While President Joe Biden signed an emergency declaration on April 3 that made federal funding immediately available for seven counties, including Tulare and Kern, Kings County was not included.

Kings County Board of Supervisors Chairman Richard Valle said in early April that this was because the county did not submit its loss damages to the state on time.

"I'm told that once the state could reaffirm our loss damages, then it should not be an issue for us, Kings County, to get added to that declaration," Valle told the Fresno Bee.

The damages would largely impact agriculture. In 2021, the county's crops were valued at $2.3 billion, and it's estimated that flooding could ruin more than 41% of the crops plus cost $1 billion in damages.

About 30 square miles of farmland had been inundated by the revived lake by early April. Kings County Sheriff Dave Robinson told the Fresno Bee that people had been showing up with boats and kayaks, mistaking the area as a recreational waterway.

"The lake bottom is private farmland that is flooding. Over the course of the next few months, we will be dealing with this," Robinson said during a March press conference.

In an aerial view, widespread flooding is seen as a series of atmospheric river storms melts record amounts of snow in the Sierra Nevada Mountains on March 23, 2023, near Corcoran, California. The region is the site of the once-massive Tulare Lake, which was the largest freshwater lake in the western United States before farming diverted its waters and the area was developed for agriculture.

The damage will not be isolated to just Allensworth and Corcoran, however, with many other rural communities looking to shore up their levees.

"There are a number of small rural communities along the San Joaquin River that are nervous, and they should be nervous because they're going to have to let a lot of water go down that river, and it's not well-designed as a flood control structure," Mount said.

Both local authorities and water experts have warned that the pending flood event has echoes of 1983, a year when record-level snowpack levels had resulted in Lake Tulare holding floodwaters for two years.

The scenario towns around Lake Tulare are likely to see is similar to the year 1983, Mount said, which was a strong El Nino year that also saw high snowpack levels. Over the course of two months, about 80% of the snowpack had melted and either turned into runoff or evaporated. Roughly 100,000 acres were under some three million acre-feet of water, submerging portions of towns like Allensworth and Corcoran.

The area had pumped water into canals and sent some to Southern California but relied heavily on evaporation, according to Mount. The result was water sticking around for two years.

Two palm trees are backdropped by snow-covered mountains in Hesperia, California, March 1, 2023. Record snowfall and rain have helped to loosen droughts grip on parts of the western U.S. as national forecasters and climate experts warned Thursday, March 16, that some areas should expect more flooding as the snow begins to melt. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong, File)

"I don't see any way around it," Mount said. "We're probably going to see the same thing this year where we're looking at two years of water."

Should 2023 echo 1983 and face two years of Lake Tulare lapping at the city's border, Gatzka warned the city would also need to weather a long recovery period with the resulting economic impact.

Ironically, the unusually low March temperatures are one of the factors behind why the flooding could be so intense.

In an aerial view, a car is left stranded in widespread flooding as a series of atmospheric river storms melts record amounts of snow in the Sierra Nevada Mountains on March 23, 2023, near Corcoran, California. The region is site of the once-massive Tulare Lake, which was the largest freshwater lake in the western United States before farming diverted its waters and the area was developed for agriculture.

The stubborn cold kept the snowpack from melting for a longer period of time, allowing for more snow to build up in the mountains. When warmer weather arrives, all that snow will melt, and the runoff is more intense.

March temperatures in 1983 fell 2-4 degrees below normal in some locations of the Sierra Nevada with precipitation at least double the usual amount, according to AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Tom Kines. This year, temperatures averaged about 4 degrees below normal in the mountains and foothills east of the San Joaquin Valley, and precipitation was well above normal in both the mountains and the valley.

"Roughly 80% of that snow is likely to melt and turn into runoff or go back into the atmosphere in that two-month period of May and June," Mount said. "And that's kind of what happens even in our really, really epic years, like 1983. That's precisely what happened."

Even with the relief from the drought, Mount cautioned against assuming the state's troubles with persistent dry weather were over.

"How quickly we forget that just a year ago we were in a screaming drought, and how quickly we forgot that in 2019 we had a very wet year," Mount said. "We filled all our reservoirs, and one year later, we were in trouble."

That year had started off with nearly 8% of the state free of drought and abnormally dry conditions, but by early March, that percentage had soared to 93%, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. The percentage remained between 80% and 96% until November, when dry weather swept across the state, plummeting the percentage of the state that was free of dry and drought conditions to 18.6%.

While that percentage continued to fluctuate, even rising again to 96% at the start of 2020, it quickly dropped once more at the end of January 2020 and continued to fall. From Dec. 8, 2020, to Feb. 21, 2023, the percentage of California free of drought conditions remained under 1%.

"We fall back into drought very quickly, so no, this has not solved all our problems," Mount cautioned. "In fact, you never solve a problem in California water, you just manage it."

While the rainfall has significantly boosted water levels at California reservoirs, Mount pointed out that the state relies heavily on groundwater. In an average year, he said, it makes up a third of the state's water supply or two-thirds in a drought year. One wet year alone won't be enough to restore those aquifers.

"If you're a fish, you need more than one good wet year to recover. And if you're a bird, you also need more than one good wet year to recover," Mount said. "So drought is in the eye of the beholder, but all I can tell you is our reservoirs are full. We are relaxing our drought restrictions appropriately at this point, but we have not solved the problem."

Want next-level safety, ad-free? Unlock advanced, hyperlocal severe weather alerts when you subscribe to Premium+ on the AccuWeather app.AccuWeather Alerts are prompted by our expert meteorologists who monitor and analyze dangerous weather risks 24/7 to keep you and your family safer.
Mayor Joe Hogsett easily won the Democratic nomination for mayor in his past two elections in 2015 and 2019, but in state Rep. Robin Shackleford, D-Indianapolis, he faces his strongest primary opponent yet.

She represents increasing division within the Marion County Democratic Party that spilled into public eye last year. Black Democrats, including Shackleford, slammed party leadership helmed by then-chair Kate Sweeney Bell and Hogsett over the since-ended slating process to endorse candidates, which they said was controlled by leaders and shut out Black and Latino candidates.

Still, most political watchers give Hogsett  and his overwhelming lead in campaign cash  the clear advantage.

And while Hogsett is being challenged, with the Indiana Black Legislative Caucus siding with Shackleford, many within his party are standing with him. One of Shackleford's Democratic colleagues at the Indiana Statehouse, Rep. Blake Johnson, D-Indianapolis, reached out to IndyStar to criticize what he called her political mudslinging when she released an infrastructure improvement plan on April 5 that attacked Hogsett for not adequately addressing pedestrian safety.

What I think is its unnecessarily divisive, he told IndyStar.

Both candidates stand to make history if they win.

Hogsett would become the only mayor other than Republican Bill Hudnut to serve more than two terms since 1970, when Unigov consolidated the city and county governments.

If Shackleford wins, she would become the citys first woman, first Black and first non-white mayor, something which she has said is long overdue.

Indianapolis mayoral primaries: 5 things to know about the candidates, race

University of Indianapolis political science professor Laura Wilson said the election is like a referendum on Hogsett. He's been attacked by opponents on problems from rising gun violence to pedestrian safety to the pothole-ridden streets.

Wilson noted Shackleford has released a number of policies to emphasize how she'd do things differently.

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"I think Robin Shackleford is real competition although the challenges for her are steep," Wilson said.

Community activists Clif Marsiglio, Larry Vaughn, and perennial candidate Bob Kern, also are running in what's become a crowded Democratic primary.

Joe Hogsett

Its a story Hogsett has told many times. But its one he cant seem to emphasize enough as he fields questions about why hes running for a third term, which he said in 2015 he wouldnt do.

He thinks he lost time to transform the city during the COVID-19 pandemic and wants another shot.

In no small measure, the reason why I'm running for a third term is based largely on the fact that I think that we created a great deal of momentum in the first term, he said.

One thing that hasnt changed: hes using the same west side storefront that housed his 2019 campaign.

Nestled beside a Mexican restaurant and auto insurance store along bustling West Washington Street, the Hogsett west side campaign nerve center is bedecked with campaign posters and hosts campaign volunteers phone banking, mailing and canvassing for his reelection.

The citys $150 million violent crime prevention program and its historic $1.1 billion 5-year infrastructure plan passed in this years budget are some of the plans Hogsett wants to see through in a third term.

While people may criticize my leadership for their own political agendas, I think continuity of leadership is what I, uniquely, the only candidate, provides, he told IndyStar.

Incumbent mayor Joe Hogsett answers questions during a mayoral Democratic town hall on Tuesday, March 28, 2023 at The Indianapolis Star in Indianapolis.

Hogsett said he knows problems exist, such as gun violence and potholes, which his opponents have attacked him on. But he said that what his administration has been doing is working and his pitch to voters is to stay the course. He points to the 15% reduction in homicides from 2021 to 2022 as evidence, saying its the largest decrease in year-on-year homicides in IMPD history.

Hogsett has, since his first term, sought to lobby state lawmakers to change Indianas outdated road funding formula that disproportionately shorts Indianapolis, and other highly-trafficked cities, of road money.

The Indiana General Assembly is now considering a bill, Senate Bill 283 authored by Sen. Aaron Freeman, R-Indianapolis, which would send about $8 million more road money each year to Indianapolis by correcting a glitch in the road funding formula. But Hogsett acknowledged that lawmakers have still not fixed the key funding formula issue.

Joe Hogsett gets a kiss from his wife Stephanie Hogsett at City Market on Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2022, after the announcement by incumbent mayor Hogsett that he is seeking another term as Indianapolis mayor.

Hes been working with regional mayors to see how urban areas can collaborate to fix the problem.

One thing Hogsett has sworn he wouldnt do is raise taxes. Hes never raised taxes before and does not plan on doing so even to deal with Indianapolis $1 billion road funding gap.

Im not going to support any tax increases on Marion County residents unless and until we start getting our fair share of state support in terms of road funding, he said.

Hes earned a reputation for fiscal prudence. Voters from 2015 might remember his campaign ads featuring his own decades-old shoes to underscore how he wont spend unnecessarily.

When he took office in 2016, he inherited a structural deficit of $38 million. By his second budget, the city had eliminated it. The city has passed balanced budgets since then. Indianapolis has a triple A bond rating, the highest level, which Hogsett is proud of.

Weve had support of broad bipartisan agreement on our fiscal vision for the city, he said. Thats not a Joe Hogsett vision or a Democratic Party vision, but rather a city of Indianapolis vision for fiscal stability, fiscal prudence.

Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett (left) congratulates Lutheran head coach Remus Woods after his team defeated Southwood, 97-66, for the IHSAA Class A state title Saturday, March 25, 2023, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.

Hogsett has touted the $3.6 billion in current and forthcoming investments in downtown development as a cornerstone achievement of his time in office. Gamechanger is how he describes the redevelopment of City Market East, Pan Am Plaza, the expansion of the Convention Center, the expansion of IU Health Medical Campus, 16 Tech, the Elanco global headquarters, the Gainbridge Fieldhouse renovation and Elevator Hill.

The next four or five years may be the among the most exciting in our city's history, he said.

Those developments may be the crown jewels of his time in office, but some residents and political opponents have criticized the citys overt focus on downtown at expense of neglected neighborhoods that still have no sidewalks or bus stops and said its driven displacement and gentrification.

We continue to invest significantly, whether it be our Circle City Forward Initiative, which is transforming not only parks, but also neighborhood infrastructure throughout the community, Hogsett said.

Robin Shackleford

For Shackleford, to be Indianapolis mayor is to be an advocate for the city, especially as a Republican-dominated Indiana General Assembly is increasingly at odds with its capital residents political views.

Its a conflict she knows well and has navigated in her almost 11 years at the legislature, working across party lines to get bipartisan bills passed, notably, a temporary traffic amnesty program in 2019.

As I reflect on what I've been able to get done at the Statehouse, I think about it, I should be able to get even more done with a Democrat-led city, she told IndyStar.

She faces an uphill battle in the primary against the incumbent mayor. By her own admission, she has never had to put in a lot of work to keep her Statehouse seat, having been unopposed in her last three general elections to the District 98 seat representing Indianapolis at the Statehouse.

As of the most recent figures released by the April 14 deadline, Hogsett had about 77 times more money in his campaign war chest than she had. About 25 people are on Shacklefords campaign staff, though she said theyd be more appropriately described as her campaign volunteers. Most of them, including her campaign managers, are unpaid.

Robin Shackleford answers questions during a mayoral Democratic town hall on Tuesday, March 28, 2023 at The Indianapolis Star in Indianapolis.

Much like her campaign team built by grassroots volunteers, she hopes to beat Hogsett through mobilizing voters. But political experts have said that would be difficult, as a grassroots-only strategy isnt likely to work in such a big race.

Like Hogsetts challengers across the aisle, Shackleford said crime is the biggest issue facing Indianapolis and her top priority.

It is a universal problem across the city," she said. "Everybody is concerned about their safety.

While Hogsett has said the rise in violence was accelerated by the pandemic, Shackleford said thats not an excuse.

You can't blame the pandemic, she said. I think the issue was he was not focusing more on the preventive side of safety of law enforcement.

Indiana Rep. Robin Shackleford swears into office, among fellow House representatives, on Tuesday, Nov. 22, 2022, during the ceremonial start of the upcoming legislative session at the Statehouse in Indianapolis. The session starts in earnest on Jan. 9, 2023.

Mental health, addiction, jobs without living wages, trauma  those are some of the root causes of crime that Shackleford said she would address in an expansive public safety plan.

Although Hogsett created the Office of Public Health and Safety in an effort to address those issues, Shackleford said she thinks it has been underfunded and under resourced. For example, she said, the $2 million funding the citys Mobile Crisis Assistance Team, which responds to people in mental health crisis, is insufficient.

Thats just a drop in the bucket for the resources that it's going to take, she said.

Shackleford thinks Hogsett has pursued downtown growth at the expense of neighborhoods, including her own district on the east side, which have become neglected.

What seems kind of lopsided is when one of our biggest issues is all that development going downtown and his top funders are developers, she said. What you start seeing is more crime in the surrounding neighborhoods, less development, less infrastructure, more health issues, more food deserts, more pharmacy deserts, more bank deserts, and nothing has been done to stop (it)I dont think hes been focused on any of these issues at an adequate level.

Indiana Black Legislative Caucus then-Chair State Rep. Robin Shackleford speaks during a press conference, Tuesday, Feb. 01, 2022, at the Indiana State Capital in Indianapolis.

In multiple campaign emails, Shackleford has suggested that hes been beholden to large donors expecting favors in return for their contributions, accusations Hogsett strongly denies. IndyStar reported in January that his campaign war chest is powered by some of Indianapolis' biggest players in business and real estate, who have developments downtown.

Shackleford also takes issue with Hogsett's spending decisions. Balancing budgets are important, she said, but so is taking care of the city.

You dont want to balance the budget on the backs of not making sure resources are out there and government is not ran efficiently, she said. When you have streets crumbling, when you have crime is so high, when you have lights not on, you're sacrificing just to say that you got a balanced budget.

Similarly, Shackleford criticized what she said was Hogsetts unwillingness to raises taxes for fear it would harm his prospects of reelection.

Given the city has reached a crisis point, she said, she would consider raising taxes to make sure roads get adequately funded. Her comprehensive infrastructure plan wont be funded by tax hikes at the moment, however, and she would first audit available funds to see how to reorient spending.

As a state representative, she worked on a historic police reform bill passed in 2021 that defined the use of chokeholds during arrests as deadly force among other accountability measures. She also was the key driver behind the launch of Indianas first telemedicine pilot program in 2014.

This session, she has been part of the Democratic pushback against the Republican assault on transgender rights, proposing four amendments to try and water down the ban on gender-affirming health procedures for youth, to no success.

Marsiglio, Vaughn, Kern

Marsiglio is a longtime community activist and calls himself an unpolished politician. A self-described progressive liberal, he said Hogsett has not been committed enough to a progressive agenda, including social justice and infrastructure. Marsiglio's biggest priority, if elected, he said, would be improving public safety, drawing on his experienced as a trained mental health clinician to address mental illness and addiction.

Vaughn focused on not giving private businesses money through tax increment financing districts and said addressing mental illness and addiction in crime reduction is a waste of resources. He also ran against Hogsett in 2015, when he made local headlines for comparing school reform to sending kids to gas chambers.

Perennial candidate Kern has run unsuccessfully in six Democratic primaries for congressional and Statehouse seats before. His priorities are crime, infrastructure and homelessness. Kern made local and national headlines in the past for his congressional bid while having felony convictions.

The primary is May 2. Early voting has begun.

Contact IndyStar reporter Ko Lyn Cheang at kcheang@indystar.com or 317-903-7071. Follow her on Twitter: @kolyn_cheang.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Hogsett faces 'real competition' from Shackleford in mayoral primary
By Hannah Confino and Rami Amichay

Tel Aviv (Reuters) - Esther Paran navigated her way in a wheelchair through the throngs of Israelis marching through Tel Aviv in protest at government plans to overhaul the country's judicial system.

She was pushed by an aide. She did not bang on drums or yell along with the crowd. But she understands more than most about the vulnerability of democracy.

Paran, 79, is one of roughly 147,000 Holocaust survivors still alive in Israel. She was born in Hungary towards the end of World War Two when her family was in hiding from the Nazis. They came to Israel in 1957 after a deadly uprising in Hungary that failed to end Soviet rule.

Democracy needs a lot of safeguards, she said, and the highly-contested judicial overhaul plan that has caused months of turmoil in Israel is what disturbs her today.

She never drew a comparison between events from her past and the current rift in Israel.

"When I see the television I get so angry I can't sleep all night," she said at one of the demonstrations that have drawn hundreds of thousands of protesters. "Here at least I feel that I do something. And I believe it will help."

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's attempt to make sweeping changes to the court system has caused an unprecedented fracture in Israeli society.

His right-wing coalition wants to rein in the Supreme Court it sees interfering in policymaking. This sparked outrage at home and concern abroad about the erosion of Israel's checks and balances and a weakening democracy.

That enmity, though, will take a back seat on Tuesday as Israel marks its Holocaust remembrance day and commemorates the death of 6 million Jews. Television channels carry memorial ceremonies and for two minutes Israelis stand in silence as sirens blare across the country.

Hungary was allied with Nazi Germany. Paran said her mother, like many other Jews around Budapest, was able to find them a place to hide with another family thanks to documents from Swedish diplomat Raoul Wallenberg.

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There was little food and constant danger. At one point the family ate meat off a dead horse they found.

Her family stayed in Hungary after the war and through a popular uprising in 1956 that was crushed by Soviet troops. They moved to Israel the next year and Paran became a physician.

She dabbed tears from her cheeks when recalling their life in Hungary.

Paran discussed her worries about Israel more stoically and with a sense of optimism that protesters' concerns will be heard.

But in the meantime, she said, to "sit and do nothing is a terrible feeling."

(Editing by Christina Fincher)
Associated Press

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP)  A mob in the Haitian capital beat and burned 13 suspected gang members to death with gasoline-soaked tires Monday after pulling the men from police custody at a traffic stop, police and witnesses said. The horrific vigilante violence underlined public anger over the increasingly lawless situation in Port-au-Prince where criminal gangs have taken control over an estimated 60% of the city since the July 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moise. Six more burned bodies were laid in a nearby neighborhood later Monday, and some witnesses said that police killed them and residents set them on fire, but the AP could not verify the accounts independently.
A brand new Scottish Tory star barged into the bizarre parallel universe occupied by new First Minister Humza Yousaf on Tuesday to remind everyone that his so-called plans for the future are not whats dominating the thoughts of Scottish voters.

Meghan Gallacher is Douglas Rosss deputy and was standing in for him for the first time in tackling any SNP leader, and wasted no time in highlighting the shambles of his party and government and by insisting that its the criminal investigation by Police Scotland into the SNPs finances thats at the top of the voters priorities.

Yesterdays Holyrood proceedings were strange even by that places odd ways, in that at the height of an incredibly detailed probe by a team of up to 20 detectives into how the SNP is run, we were asked to focus, instead, on a pie-in-the-sky list of maybes by Yousaf.

In an assembly which never seems to believe that its really a proper parliament, there was some initial reluctance among opposition parties about intruding into what was seen as the private grief of the SNP.

Not Ms Gallacher. The 31-year-old, mother of a nine-month-old daughter, and former John Lewis customer relations manager, went straight for the jugular, saying that Yousaf had made his policy statement when scandal continued to engulf his party, before adding: The SNP is in total meltdown.

Humza Yousaf in Holyrood - Jane Barlow/PA

Considering that its two most senior officials, chief executive Peter Murrell, husband of Nicola Sturgeon, and treasurer Colin Beattie, a close associate of Nicola Sturgeon, have both been arrested by police as suspects in their investigation about what happened to a missing 600,000 war chest donated by members, this was a pretty accurate reflection of the SNPs current state.

Gallacher also focussed firmly on Ms Sturgeons role, saying that leaked video footage had revealed that the former first minister had tried to shut down scrutiny of her partys finances months before the police investigation began.

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Yousaf attempted a riposte by saying that it was brave of Gallacher to talk of propriety when the Tory Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister were under investigation by the Commons standards commission. But he chose to ignore the fact, which everyone else is aware of, that his party is at the centre of a massive police investigation unlike - as far as were aware - the Tories.

And his attempt at humour fell on stony ground when he insisted that hed rather be working for the people of Scotland than to languish in opposition. How long before he begins that languish is a matter of some debate in the watering holes of Holyrood.

The other opposition parties took their lead from the Tory deputy leader, with Labours Anas Sarwar saying that the SNP was mired in scandal, mired in division. And he added that the crisis now afflicting the SNP was an indication of how they govern Scotland.

Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton insisted that the new First Ministers attempted re-launch had been utterly torpedoed by events outside the parliament.

It was an arrogance entirely reminiscent of his predecessor that persuaded Yousaf to believe that he could present what he proudly boasted was his programme for government to the Scottish Parliament when the only people really interested in his party right now are the best brains of Police Scotland.

Gallacher cut through the strange business as usual tone the SNP is seeking to adopt by accusing Yousaf of failing to suspend his former mentors until the police investigation is completed.

Sturgeon was his principal mentor but there has been no sign of her, or her husband or Colin Beattie, being suspended. Not yet, anyway.
CINCINNATI (AP)  A little over a year after his big league debut, hard-throwing right-hander Hunter Greene reached a long-term deal with the Cincinnati Reds.

Im fired up, the pitcher said Wednesday, a day after the team announced a $53 million, six-year contract. I want to be in the forefront to returning to winning in Cincinnati. We have a lot of great players here and coming through the system.

Greene had agreed last month to a one-year contract paying $730,000 while in the major leagues and $350,000 in the minors. His new superseding deal includes a $2 million signing bonus payable within 60 days of the deal's approval by the commissioner's office and salaries of $1 million this year, $3 million in 2024, $6 million in 2025, $8 million in 2026, $15 million in 2027 and $16 million in 2028.

Cincinnati has a $21 million option for 2029 with a $2 million buyout,

Hes a talented player, but hes just as great off the field as well, said general manager Nick Krall, who attended a news conference with manager David Bell, Greene's parents and Reds teammates.We want players who make commitments off the field.

Greene's 2028 salary can escalate by up to $11 million and the 2029 option by up to $13.2 million based on from this year going forward: $200,000 for each All-Star election or selection, $2 million for any Cy Young Award, $1 million for second or third in the voting, $750,000 for fourth or fifth and $500,000 for sixth through 10th.

Hunter is a talented young pitcher, Bell said. Hes accomplished a lot, but he has a long way to go.

Greene would get award bonses or $250,000 for each Cy Young or MVP, $150,000 for second or third in the voting and $100,000 for fourth or fifth. Greene also would get $100,000 for each for All-Star election or selection, winning a Gold Glove or earning World Series or League Championship Series MVP.

The commitment we made to Hunter reflects his commitment to this organization and to our community, Reds CEO Bob Castellini said in a statement. He is part of the foundation of young players who will continue to help us build a successful major league team.

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Greene, 23, became the first Reds pitcher age 25 or younger to start on opening day since 1980.

Greene started Monday night and left after three innings after being struck on the right leg by a comebacker. X-rays were negative, and he is expected to make his next start.

Greene has struck out 188 while allowing 124 hits in 142 2/3 major league innings. Last season, he became the only major league rookie since 1900 to have at least three appearances in which he threw six or more innings and had eight or more strikeouts.

The Reds selected Greene with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2017 amateur draft.

___

AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports
A dangerous situation is unfolding in Gem County.

According to filings recently submitted by St. Lukes Health System, Gem County Sheriff Donnie Wunder is refusing to serve court papers on Ammon Bundy, whom the hospital is suing after Bundy disrupted services at the hospital over a child protective services case. Gem County has also indicated that private process servers could face trespassing citations.

This comes after Gem County deputies served court papers on Bundy on April 6. Bundy wrote an account of what happened that day on his website.

I came out the door near him and chased him out of the storage area demanding that he get in his vehicle and leave, Bundy wrote. He did, but the second deputy wanted to confront me. Nose to nose I demanded that he leave my property immediately and never come back.

Wunder wrote that Bundy had trespassed process servers from his property and that he had become threatening when deputies served him.

I talked with Mr. Bundy via telephone on April 10th, Wunder wrote in a letter to St. Lukes attorneys. Mr. Bundy expressed to me that he feels like he is being harassed by all the papers that have been served on him (by mail and personal service). Mr. Bundy went on to say that he is at his breaking point. By the tone in his voice, I believe he is. In my opinion, if this continues, there is a potential for someone  getting hurt.

In a follow-up email, Gem County Prosecutor Erick Thomson confirmed that the sheriff would no longer execute service on Bundy, and that private process servers were at risk of being cited for trespassing.

The issue was first brought to light by Devin Burghart, executive director of the Institute for Research and Education on Human Rights, which has long followed Bundys Peoples Rights Network. Bundy has been refusing to participate in court hearings, Burghart pointed out, and earlier this month, he made a threatening post on social media warning officials to come no more upon him.

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(Bundy) is making it impossible for the folks at St. Lukes who are trying to seek justice in this case to try to get a fair hearing, Burghart said. That makes it very difficult for those who believe in the rule of law to believe that justice can be served.

Sheriff Wunders concerns about the safety of his deputies are understandable. Bundy has a history of standoffs with law enforcement, and according to Burgharts research, there were more than 33,000 people in Bundys network as of fall 2021 (St. Lukes attorneys cite the figure of 60,000 in their filings). There is real danger involved here, and it needs to be taken seriously.

But the problem cant be wished away just because it is dangerous. It will not become less dangerous by being neglected.

In fact, the current situation is largely a result of repeated failures to hold Bundy accountable for his actions.

Because federal prosecutors in Nevada committed prosecutorial misconduct during the Bunkerville standoff trial, Bundy was allowed to walk.

When Bundy and his cohort broke through doors to flood the Idaho House gallery unmasked during the height of the pandemic, they were rewarded by being allowed to stay.

Bundy forced his way into public health district meetings, shutting them down, without facing any consequences.

I dont know why theyve failed to enforce the law against Bundy. Frankly, its baffling to me and our organization that he hasnt been brought to justice for his many, many abrogations of the law over the years, Burghart said in an interview. Its given him carte blanche to escalate his harassing and threatening behaviors.

The failures of accountability have to end somewhere.

If they dont, Bundy will have made a mockery of the law and law enforcement, and made up a blueprint for anyone who wants to avoid legal sanctions: act threatening enough and wild enough, and the consequences will simply evaporate.

St. Lukes attorneys summed this situation up well: ... Tolerating an extremists chilling effect on service of process would set a dangerous precedent in Idaho. It would encourage militants to intimidate those they harm into silence and inaction, as well as reinforce the notion that extremists like Bundy may freely operate outside the law. They may summon hundreds of armed disruptors to shut down a hospital and endanger the lives of everyone within it  then escape liability by holing up in a compound with threats to law enforcement and anyone else who attempts to set foot on the property to serve legal process.

Its deal with Bundys threats now or deal with countless Bundy copycats down the line.

The sheriff has a legal mandate  not an ability but a requirement  to serve court papers on Bundy. He should do his job, or resign from his post and allow someone else to do it.

Statesman editorials are the unsigned opinion of the Idaho Statesmans editorial board. Board members are opinion editor Scott McIntosh, opinion writer Bryan Clark, editor Chadd Cripe and newsroom editors Dana Oland and Jim Keyser.
Attorneys for St. Lukes Health System have asked the Idaho Supreme Court to weigh in after an Idaho sheriff said his office will no longer serve far-right activist Ammon Bundy with legal papers, citing concerns over safety.

St. Lukes is in the midst of a civil defamation case against Bundy and his associate Diego Rodriguez, as well as several organizations led by the two men. The hospital system said both men led a baseless smear campaign against the hospital and lied about the circumstances of a child welfare case involving Rodriguezs grandchild, according to previous Idaho Statesman reporting.

In its petition to the Supreme Court, St. Lukes said it has been unable to find private process servers to deliver legal documents to Bundy. St. Lukes lawyer Erik Stidham wrote that private servers expressed concerns about online attacks, armed protests at their homes and violence. According to the petition, Bundy reported some private process servers for trespassing on his property. Process servers are not specifically exempted from trespass laws in Idaho.

St. Lukes has largely relied on the Gem County Sheriffs Office to deliver legal documents to Bundys Emmett home, Stidham said. But recently Gem County Sheriff Donnie Wunder said Bundys behavior toward sheriffs office employees serving legal papers is becoming a concern. As a result, Wunder said, his office would no longer serve documents to Bundy, either.

St. Lukes is asking the Idaho Supreme Court to compel Wunder to comply with his statutory duties to serve process and notices, as well as prohibit Wunder from pursuing trespass charges against process servers who enter Bundys property.

Bundy did not return a request for comment.

Potential for someone to get hurt

In a document dated April 12, Wunder wrote that Bundy was becoming more and more aggressive toward civil process servers contacting him over court proceedings in the St. Lukes lawsuit. The sheriff said Bundy has been avoiding servers and has been confrontational when they succeed in contacting him.

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Wunder said Bundy called Gem County emergency dispatch on April 6 after he was contacted at his home by two sheriffs deputies and told a dispatcher he wanted a record of the deputies trespassing on his property.

Wunder said in his statement that he spoke with Bundy on April 10. Bundy, who gained notoriety in two armed standoffs with government officials in the 2010s, told the sheriff he feels as though hes being harassed, Wunder said.

Mr. Bundy went on to also say that he is at his breaking point, Wunder said. By the tone in his voice, I believe he is.

Wunder said he is concerned for the safety of his deputies and the process servers contacting Bundy.

In my opinion, if this continues, there is potential for someone to get hurt, Wunder said.

On April 10, the same day Bundy and Wunder spoke, Bundy published a blog post on the website for the Peoples Rights Network, a far-right group Bundy founded in 2020 that claims to bring neighbors together against tyranny.

The post detailed the April 6 incident Wunder described. Bundy said two deputies came to serve him papers and were told by his son that he wasnt home. Bundy noted he was in the shop adjacent to his house, where deputies quickly found him after allegedly looking into the shop windows, according to Bundy.

I could not believe the audacity of these deputies, Bundy wrote. When I saw that one of them had actually come into the covered storage section of the shop, I began to yell at him to get off my property. I came out the door near him and chased him out of the storage area demanding that he get in his vehicle and leave.

Bundy said the first deputy returned to the vehicle, but the second wanted to confront Bundy.

Nose to nose I demanded that he leave my property immediately and never come back, Bundy wrote.

Bundy noted that he has recently been served with reams of papers related to the St. Lukes case and said he doesnt know if he has ever been as upset as he was during the April 6 incident.

Bundy said the media has tried to portray him as a violent person since standoffs against government officials in 2014 and 2016. The 2014 incident in Nevada occurred when Bureau of Land Management officials corralled cattle belonging to Bundys father, Cliven Bundy, after the elder Bundy refused to pay fees for grazing his cattle on public land. In 2016, Ammon Bundy led the takeover of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge in Oregon. Though Bundy was charged with multiple crimes, he was never convicted in either incident.

Bundy wrote in the blog post that he isnt a violent person, adding that after Thursdays confrontation with the Gem County sheriff deputies, I feel like they are going to keep pushing and pushing until I become what they say I am.

Lawsuit stemmed from child welfare case protests

In its petition to the Supreme Court, St. Lukes argued that the health system and its employees had the courage to stand up to the bullying of Bundy and (the Peoples Rights Network).

It would be unjust if Bundys threats and the sheriffs concerns for the safety of his deputies deprived the St. Lukes parties of due process in a lawsuit which seeks to hold Bundy and (Peoples Rights) accountable, the petition said.

Bundy was arrested in March 2022 and charged with trespassing at St. Lukes Meridian Medical Center after he failed to leave the property in connection with the child welfare case now at the center of the defamation lawsuit. In the following days, Bundy and Rodriguez rallied supporters to protest outside of St. Lukes in downtown Boise, where they blocked an ambulance bay.

At one point, St. Lukes went into lockdown over security concerns. The hospital later said at least four patients had to be diverted to other hospitals because of the protesters.

In May 2022, St. Lukes sued Bundy, Rodriguez and the Peoples Rights Network. The health system said it wanted the defendants to remove defamatory and false material shared online about St. Lukes.

Bundy has failed to remove online statements about St. Lukes and has not shown up to court hearings. On Tuesday, 4th District Judge Lynn Norton, who is presiding over the civil defamation case, issued a civil arrest warrant for Bundy for contempt of court, according to reporting from the Idaho Capital Sun and Boise State Public Radio. She set his bail at $10,000.

In January, he pleaded guilty to the trespassing charge at St. Lukes Meridian. He characterized the plea as a peace offering to St. Lukes.

In February Norton issued an order allowing St. Lukes to seek punitive damages in the case. They could total up to $7.5 million, according to previous Statesman reporting.

The case is set to go to trial July 10.
(Rebecca Walker / SWNS)

A teenage girl has bizarrely suffered from cancer symptoms since her identical twin was diagnosed in 2017  despite not having the disease herself.

Sophie Walker, 16, was diagnosed with a Wilms tumour - a type of kidney cancer - on October 25 2017, and started a four-week course of chemotherapy shortly after.

In the five years since, she has gone into remission twice - but relapsed four times. Throughout this time, her twin sister, Megan, has been experiencing many of the same symptoms.

After Sophie was diagnosed following stomach bug-like cramps, Megan began experiencing similar symptoms - including stomach and back pain, paleness - even weight loss.

The girls mum, Rebecca Walker, from Edinburgh, Scotland, said: When Sophie was first diagnosed, Megan had all the symptoms. People comment on how ill she looks all the time - shes even paler than her sister.

Every test under the sun has been done on her, and theres absolutely nothing wrong with her. Its so bizarre.

After an initial 27 weeks of chemotherapy, Sophie went into remission until January 2020 - when a routine MRI showed something worrying on her spine.

A consultant informed Rebecca that her initial biopsy had seeded on her spine - meaning the needle inserted into Sophies initial tumour had dislodged and spread cancer cells.

(Rebecca Walker / SWNS)

Following a three-week course of radiotherapy, a relapse in December 2021 and remission in December 2022, consultants told Sophie just three months ago that shed once again relapsed.

Rebecca said: We went to get Sophie checked out one day, and were told by the consultant she couldnt feel anything there.

But by the following day, we were called back in. All the consultant could say was that the results were not good - and she started to cry.

Sophie saw the look on her face and just broke down, for the first time in six years.

Sophies dad, Jamie Walker, 44, left the room with Sophie to console her - meanwhile Rebecca stayed with the consultant to ask further questions.

Story continues

She said: I was told to take her away and make memories, while shes well enough.Since the news, Sophies consultant has said shell be able to have the tumour on her spine operated on - by a team of consultants, oncologists, pediatric surgeons and plastic surgeons.

Despite this little bit of hope - Sophie is still struggling deeply with health anxiety and depression - and Megan has been feeling the exact same way.

Rebecca said: Megan just cant settle if Sophie isnt there. We have a big family and everyone looks out for each other, but Megan has been struggling hugely.

(Rebecca Walker / SWNS)

Sophie and Megan have eight siblings - James, 20, Emily, 19, Ruthie, 17, Daniel, 13, Olivia, 11, Emma, nine, Nathan, eight and eight-month old Evan.

While the older ones are looking after the younger ones in the house, Megan will stay in hospital by Sophies side, sometimes until 3am, Rebecca added.

She wont leave her until she says, Im tired, I want to go to sleep.

All throughout Covid, she wasnt allowed to see Sophie as Jamie and I were her two named visitors. She couldnt cope.

As soon as those restrictions were slightly lifted, Megan wanted to see Sophie again.

When Sophie relapsed in January, Megan also volunteered herself for a head-to-toe MRI scan.

Nothing showed up, theres absolutely nothing wrong with her, explained Rebecca.

Consultants are telling me its just a twin thing - which I find totally bizarre. Ive never heard of identical twins getting sick at the same time, when one isnt even ill herself.

The Walker family are currently running a GoFundMe to raise funds for proton therapy in New York - after receiving surgery in Scotland on a date to be confirmed.
At a town hall last fall, a man came to Assemblyman Tom Lackey, R-Palmdale, with a challenge.

For years, he told the legislator, he had tried to get his original birth certificate from the state. But he was adopted, making that much more difficult under California law. Would Lackey try to do something to address the issue?

I was very sympathetic to his plea, Lackey said.

The lawmaker, a father of two adopted children, knew that the process isnt the same for everybody. His son and daughter were able to get their original birth records because they have relationships with their birth mothers.

In February, Lackey introduced a bill that would change how California handles requests from adopted people who want to obtain their unredacted birth certificates. While the rules around the requests would remain more restrictive than those in many other states, Lackey said his goal is to give adopted people better access to their personal records.

Currently, original birth records are placed under seal when most children in the state are adopted. In those cases, if adopted people later request a birth certificate, they will receive an amended version with their adoptive parents listed.

Judges can unseal the records. But people who were adopted said in interviews that requests to do so are not often successful.

Under AB 1302, the state would be required to contact the birth parents of an adopted person who requests an unredacted birth record. If the parents deny the request, or dont respond, the adopted person cannot get the complete original document.

The bill does allow for the records to be released if both birth parents are dead.

Gregory Luce, a Minnesota-based attorney, agrees with Lackey that Californias rules should change. He founded the Adoptee Rights Law Center and helps people obtain their original birth certificates.

It is the most conservative state in the country for adopted people on that issue, Luce said.

Yet, he opposes the proposal. For several years, Luce struggled to get his own birth certificate from officials in Washington, D.C., where he was born and adopted. Luce, 57, eventually got it in 2020.

Story continues

So, when he looks at AB 1302, he sees a process that is still too convoluted and unnecessary for adopted people.

Instead, Luce would prefer that California allow all adopted adults to request and receive their birth certificate without restrictions, other than paying the normal fee to get the record. He said he is willing to work with legislators to get there.

Currently, 12 states allow adopted people of a certain age unrestricted access to the original document, according to the law center. Vermont will join them in July.

For me, and for everyone, its important to know who you are and where you came from, he said.

Lori Schultz, a school administrator near Bakersfield, was able to find her birth parents using the minimal information the state would release. She even connected with her birth mother, who told Schultz that she was happy they did.

Still, Schultz, 62, said it would be especially meaningful just to hold her original birth record.

I kind of feel like I was forced into a secret witness protection program.

Like Luce, though, she is opposed to the bill, calling it well meaning but misguided.

We should have unrestricted access, Schultz said.

So far, more groups oppose than support the measure, according to an analysis produced by a legislative staff member.

Despite the push back, Lackey said the support the bill has received from lawmakers gives him optimism. The proposal has three co-authors, including one Democrat. The Assembly Judiciary Committee also advanced the bill Tuesday.

We believe were on the pathway to a successful step in the right direction, Lackey said.
Indiana state lawmakers have advanced a bill that would fund voluntary handgun training for schoolteachers.

Indianas Senate voted 42-8 to approve the measure on Tuesday, just days after the capital city of Indianapolis hosted the annual National Rifle Association (NRA) convention.

House Bill 1177, which passed in the state House in February, seeks to create a specialized firearms safety, education and training curriculum for teachers and other school staff. The proposed bill will also allow schools to apply for funding to provide counseling services to students, teachers, school staff, and school employees in the event of a school shooting.

Proponents of the bill say that the 40 hours of optional training will help teachers be prepared to defend themselves and their students in an active shooter situation, but opponents of the measure have other thoughts.

How is 40 hours of training going to prepare you to shoot a kid in your classroom? state Sen. Andrea Hunley (D) asked on Tuesday. This is not going to stop school shootings.

According to state law, Indiana school districts are allowed to permit schoolteachers to be armed, but no training is mandated.

The proposed measure comes in the wake of the latest string of mass shootings. This past weekend, a gunman opened fire inside a dancehall studio in Dadeville, Ala., killing four people and injuring 28 others.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
An Indiana man is facing charges after an investigation into the death of a Coral man in February 2022.

According to Pennsylvania State Police, state troopers were dispatched to help EMS with a potential drug overdose at a house along Locust Street in Center Township on Feb. 4.

The victim, identified as 23-year-old Chad Richard Stineman, was found dead inside the home. His cause of death was determined to be multiple drug toxicity, which included fentanyl, methamphetamine and xylazine.

Stamp bags found at the scene also contained fentanyl and xylazine, state police said.

During the course of the investigation, James Emanuel Emerson, 52, was identified as the suspect. He was accused of intentionally delivering, selling and distributing the drugs that caused Stinemans death.

Emerson is charged with felony counts of drug delivery resulting in death, manufacture, delivery, or possession with intent to manufacture or deliver and driminal use of a communication facility.

Emersons preliminary hearing is scheduled for May 16.

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By Krishn Kaushik and Joseph Campbell

NEW DELHI/JAUNPUR, India (Reuters) -As he crosses the mud houses and wheat fields around his village to catch a train to distant Mumbai, Sujeet Kumar says he is thinking about the better life that awaits him in India's city of dreams.

The 21-year-old from Jaunpur district, in India's most populous state of Uttar Pradesh, was headed for the countrys financial capital, saying he moved out of "compulsion", like hundreds of millions of others before him.

"Mumbai is a city of the rich...whoever goes to Mumbai, their luck changes," Kumar said. "I hope luck smiles on me also there, and I will also make progress."

This internal migration is bound to intensify as India becomes the world's most populous nation, throwing up enormous challenges for the government - managing the strains on urban infrastructure as well as creating 8 million to 10 million jobs every year to absorb its army of young unemployed.

According to 2011 figures, the latest available, India's then population of 1.21 billion people included 456 million internal migrants.

The United Nations had projected India's population would reach over 1.42 billion last week, overtaking China.

Nearly two-thirds of India's people are under 35 and many of those in the countryside flock to the cities to take whatever job they can - becoming labourers, drivers or helpers in shops and homes. Many are from Uttar Pradesh and neighbouring Bihar state, where populations are rising faster than elsewhere in the country.

"Migrants are always concentrated in more precarious work. Better jobs are not available to migrants and they have very little political power to negotiate wages," said Mukta Naik, an expert on migration at New Delhi's Centre for Policy Research.

"There are not enough jobs, and they are not good enough to attract people for the long term, not good enough wages to invest in housing, to get their children to the cities to study."

Story continues

Besides the low-paid and difficult-to-get jobs, those arriving in the cities are faced with prohibitive costs of living and a struggle to find a place to live. They are unable to access social welfare benefits and many fall victim to the crime rampant in urban slums.

Abdul Nur, a 37-year-old security guard in Bengaluru, said he left his village in the northeastern state of Assam when he was 17, and has since lived and worked in Chennai, Hyderabad and Mumbai cities.

"When I was in Mumbai, there was too much tension. It was hot, there was crime," he said.

He was in India's financial capital a decade ago, where, he said, it was very tough to live on the 14,000 rupees ($171) he earned a month, with high rents and cost of food.

But even Bengaluru, India's tech capital which is attracting huge numbers of migrants, has become too expensive, Nur said.

"I am sending my wife and child back to the village," he said. "In my salary it is very tough to educate him here. I will live alone now."

GOING BACK

Some of the migrants have become so disheartened they are returning home.

Bhikhari Manjhi, 30, left his village in Odisha state and moved to Bengaluru where he was promised a job as a construction worker with a salary of 10,000 rupees a month. For two months, his contractor paid him 100 rupees every week, promised to pay the rest later, but never did.

"When we demanded our money, we were beaten up," Manjhi said.

Earlier this month, Manjhi walked for about 1,000 km (620 miles) for over seven days with two fellow villagers to return home.

Now, he said: "We live in the forest area, and can earn about 15,000 rupees in a year."

In cities like Bengaluru, more than that can be made in a month. But Manjhi said: "I don't want to go back".

A 2020 International Labour Organization report said migrant workers contribute 10% of Indias GDP and serve as the backbone of several sectors. The money they send back reduces poverty at home and improves the well-being of their families, it said.

Experts say the government needs to help create more jobs and ensure they are distributed across the country, especially in the poorly-developed and predominantly rural north and the east.

"Rural India (only) provides jobs in the form of disguised unemployment," said Mahesh Vyas, who heads the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy.

This meant, he said, that even if more jobs are created in agriculture, they do not add to output. And apart from agriculture, the only investment in the hinterlands is in temporary infrastructure projects, which produce short-lived jobs.

The cities, with all their shortcomings, will continue to attract migrants as they remain the best places to offer jobs, he said.

Kumar from Jaunpur echoes that.

Sporting a new haircut and a pair of sunglasses, he shot videos and photos for his social media accounts during a visit to Mumbais tourist spots.

"I am really liking it here...so much better than my village," he said.

($1 = 81.6360 Indian rupees)

(Reporting by Krishn Kaushik in NEW DELHI; Additional reporting by Joseph Campbell and Sunil Kataria in JAUNPUR; Editing by YP Rajesh and Raju Gopalakrishnan)
Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland (Laguna Pueblo), the first Native American cabinet secretary in U.S. history, is shown during her remarks on the opening day of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues on April 17, 2023. (Photo: Jenna Kunze for Native News Online)

This story is published as part of the Global Indigenous Affairs Desk, an Indigenous-led collaboration between Grist, High Country News, ICT, Mongabay, and Native News Online.

NEW YORKColorful Indigenous regalia replaced suits and ties in the United Nations General Assembly hall earlier today, as Native leaders from around the globe sat side by side for the opening ceremony of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues.

The Permanent Forum is a U.N. advisory body that is mandated to deal with Indigenous Peoples issues related to economic and social development, culture, the environment, education, and health and human rights. The Permanent Forum has convened annually at the U.N. headquarters in New York City since 2002, excluding pandemic years when the forum met mostly virtually.

Each forum also centers on a specific theme. This years forum is built around the theme of Indigenous Peoples, human health, planetary and territorial health and climate change: a rights-based approach.

This year also marks the first time the forum resumed its fully in-person session since the pandemic began, and it showed. The General Assembly hall was nearly fullwith more than 2,000 registered participants.

There's a lot more people from the United States compared to last year, Shawnee Tribal Chief Ben Barnes told Native News Online. Chief Barnes said he could tell by the reaction of the room when Department of the Interior Secretary Deb Haaland (Laguna Pueblo) took the stage to loud whistles and cheering from those in attendance.

Indigenous peoples are experiencing a new era unfolding worldwide, Haaland said during the opening ceremony. It's being reaffirmed as institutions like the Vatican are rejecting and rescinding the very doctrine used to falsely justify missteps and destruction of our lands, people, and identities for hundreds of years.

Her speech focused largely on the empowerment of Indigenous women and girls, a theme that persisted throughout day one of the forum.

Story continues

Nations must address the violence and severe gender inequities that persist for Indigenous communities globally, particularly Indigenous women and girls, Haaland said. Indigenous women and girls are  best positioned to uplift the needs of their communities and advance climate crisis solutions. If we do not empower women everywhere as innovators and leaders, our global climate goals cannot proceed.

Following the opening ceremony, member states and Indigenous Peoples Organizationsas the U.N. calls any tribal nation or non-profitspoke about the continued discrimination and violence many Indigenous women and girls face.

In 1979, the United Nations adopted the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW). It became an international treaty and human rights legislation for women two years later, after 20 countries ratified the treaty, making its laws binding. Today, 189 of 194 countries have ratified the treaty; the United States is not one of them.

Countries that ratify the treaty are required to:

Eliminate all forms of discrimination against women in all areas of life; Ensure womens full development and advancement in order that they can exercise and enjoy their human rights and fundamental freedoms in the same way as men; and Allow the CEDAW Committee to scrutinize their efforts to implement the treaty by reporting to the body at regular intervals.

A body of independent experts that monitors the implementation of human rights legislation, CEDAW provided a 25-page report of guidance to countries on legislation they can enact to ensure the rights of Indigenous women and girls.

Speakers from Greenland, Canada, the United States, Canada, Norway, Australia, and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) supported the recommendation, called General Recommendation No. 39 on Indigenous Women and Girls.

Although Indigenous women in Canada are strong and resilient, we continue to face systemic discrimination and deep-rooted racism as evidenced by persistent social, economic, political, and violence against our mothers, Cora McGuire-Cyrette, the executive director of the Ontario Native Women's Association (ONWA) said. General recommendation 39 is a critically necessary document for Indigenous womens rights. Yet, it is only as good as its implementation. More must be done to hold governments accountable.

Stay tuned for more updates from the United Nations this week. Native News Online is also partnering with the Global Indigenous Affairs Desk, an Indigenous-led collaboration between Grist, High Country News, ICT, and Mongabay.

About the Author: "Jenna Kunze is a staff reporter covering Indian health, the environment and breaking news for Native News Online. She is also the publication's lead reporter on stories related to Indian boarding schools and repatriation. Her bylines have appeared in The Arctic Sounder, High Country News, Indian Country Today, Tribal Business News, Smithsonian Magazine, Elle and Anchorage Daily News. Kunze is based in New York."

Contact: jkunze@indiancountrymedia.com
(Bloomberg) -- Indonesia is urging Volkswagen AG to invest in its electric vehicle industry as the country seeks to counterbalance Chinese companies dominance over its nickel reserves.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The German automaker may partner with Vale SA, BASF SE and Merdeka Copper Gold to invest in the local car battery sector, said Investment Minister Bahlil Lahadalia on the sidelines of the Hannover Messe trade fair. VWs battery company PowerCo is holding talks worldwide, including in Indonesia, on raw material hedging, a company spokesperson said.

This is all to anticipate a trade war between big countries, Lahadalia said in a Monday statement. We must embrace a free and active economy, and we do not discriminate which countries are prioritized. All countries are equal.

President Joko Widodos vision of building an endto-end EV supply chain onshore is starting to take shape with billions of dollars in investments pouring in to turn the countrys nickel riches into batteries. But the industry is dominated by Chinese companies that have moved quickly to put in the funds and the technology needed to unlock the reserves, placing Indonesian products at risk of being left out of US and European markets.

BASF is considering building a nickel-cobalt refinery with Eramet SA, although no decision has been made, according to a spokesperson.

Ford Motor Co has taken a stake in a battery-nickel plant being built by Vale and Zhejiang Huayou Cobalt Co, while Tesla Inc is still in investment talks with the Indonesian government.

For Volkswagen, gaining access to the metal reserves could help its push to develop a mass-market car for the electric age. The German auto giant has struggled to keep pace with Teslas EVs and needs to halt sales declines in China, where domestic manufacturers led by BYD Co have stepped up their game.

Story continues

--With assistance from Tim Loh and Monica Raymunt.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Update: The Clay County Sheriffs Office announced about 1:05 p.m. Tuesday that Andrew Lester surrendered himself at the county jail and was in custody.

Black community leaders in Kansas City expressed outrage Tuesday morning that an 84-year-old white man accused in the shooting Ralph Yarl, a Black teen, has not been taken into custody a day after he was charged by prosecutors and a warrant issued for his arrest.

Andrew D. Lester of Kansas City, North, was charged Monday in Clay County with first-degree assault and armed criminal action after he shot Yarl twice with a 32-caliber Smith & Wesson revolver around 10 p.m. on Thursday.

Yarl had gone to Lesters home in the Northland by mistake, intending to go to an address one street over to pick up his younger twin brothers. Lester allegedly opened fire within a few seconds of seeing the teen on his doorstep, according to charging documents.

The charges announced Monday came after a weekend of protest and outrage at the fact that Lester was released within two hours of being taken into custody by police after the shooting, with no charges filed over the weekend and into Monday. Local leaders and attorneys representing Yarls family said it was plain that race was a factor in the case of a white man shooting a Black teen.

The fact that Lester apparently remained free and his whereabouts unknown Tuesday further angered many.

The fact that Lester is not in custody is infuriating, said Gwen Grant, president and CEO of the Urban League of Greater Kansas City. Filing charges is only one step on the pathway to justice. It rings hollow when the assailant is not in custody and KCPD has no idea where he is. Unconscionable!

Neither Kansas City police nor Clay County Sheriffs Office would say Tuesday why Lester was not in custody. And neither agency acknowledged responsibility for taking action to arrest him.

Police Chief Stacey Graves and Mayor Quinton Lucas, left, at a news conference Sunday afternoon.

In response to questions, Sarah Boyd, a spokeswoman for the Clay County Sheriffs Office said: No one has asked us to go serve the arrest warrant.

Story continues

Sgt. Jacob Becchina, a Kansas City Police Department spokesman, said only that the police department did not have any updated information that Lester is in custody.

We would love to report to you that he is in custody at either our facility or Clay County and as soon as he is we will do so, Becchina told The Star in an email.

Scrutiny of police and prosecutors

The shooting quickly gained national attention over the weekend and Monday as elected officials such as Vice President Kamala Harris and celebrities shared their thoughts on social media. Many called for criminal charges to be brought after Lester was released from police custody.

This shows that we are less important and that equal justice in the process is not a reality for us, said the Rev. Vernon P. Howard, president of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference of Greater Kansas City. The law enforcement agency responsible for the arrest is failing which starts at the top.

Protestors march in Kansas City on April 16 to bring attention to the shooting of Ralph Yarl, 16, who was shot when he went to the wrong house to pick up his brothers.

During a press conference on Sunday, Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves had said the criminal case had not been forwarded to prosecutors because they had not yet spoken to Yarl.

However defense attorneys in Kansas City challenged Gravess statement because is common for police proceed with criminal charges without speaking to the victim.

The charging documents made public Monday shed further light on the decision to release Lester without charges early Friday.

The documents show that police had talked to Yarl hours after the shooting. In an email Tuesday, Becchina the police spokesman, said that it was a cursory interview, not a formal statement.

A formal statement is done away from medical personnel and generally not during the course of medical treatment.generally prosecutors request a formal statement prior to making a charging decision, that is why chief said that, Becchina wrote.

The documents, written by police detectives, say Lester was released because Clay County prosecutors thought the shooting needed further investigation.

The shooting

The shooting was first reported to police at 9:52 p.m. Thursday.

Yarl, an honor student at Staley High School, was at the wrong house by mistake when Lester, the homeowner, opened the door and shot the teenager in the head through the storm door, according to the charging documents.

As Yarl lay on the doorstep, Lester shot him a second time, in the arm.

Yarl got up and ran from the property, but he had to ask at three different homes before someone help him.

Arriving officers found Yarl sprawled in the street roughly five houses down from where the shooting occurred in the 1100 block of N.E. 115th Street.

Ralph Yarl

A witness told police they heard the sound of gunfire coming from Lesters residence shortly before Yarl could be heard screaming for help. Responding officers reported seeing Lester standing inside the house behind a shattered glass storm door.

Lester was taken into custody but was released less than two hours later, according to court documents.

If convicted on the first-degree assault charge filed against him Tuesday, Lester faces up to 30 years in prison.

Prosecutors requested he be held on a $200,000 bond.
A Georgia man braved the elements for eight days after crashing his bike in the north Georgia mountains, news outlets report.

He thought hope was lost  until a passerby heard his cries.

You have some really mixed emotions while youre out there, Kirk Wintersteen, 68, told WANF from his hospital room. I thought I could certainly be found and when it got to the last two days or so, I kind of gave up.

The Cumming man was riding his motorcycle home March 25 when he lost control and crashed in the Chattahoochee National Forest in Blairsville, near the Georgia-North Carolina border, the news station reported.

He broke his ankle in the crash, leaving him unable to walk.

Without food or cell service, Wintersteen spent the next several days stranded in the dense forest where he braved stormy weather and freezing temperatures, WSB-TV reported. He crawled and drank water from a nearby stream in hopes that someone would find him.

I may die here if Im not able to get my leg out from under the motorcycle, he recalled to the station. I was eventually able to do that

I started thinking about survival at that point, Wintersteen said.

The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests are two national forests in Georgia featuring nearly 867,000 acres across 26 counties, according to the U.S. Forest Service. The land boasts 850 miles of hiking trails, dozens of campgrounds, streams and other natural scenery.

Wintersteens friends and family launched an intensive search after he didnt return from his ride, according to Jake King, whose mother is Winstersteens significant other.

I immediately went to the last place that we knew he was going to which is ... like a biker hangout, King told Neighborhood TV. After a while, the word started getting out and Kirk has a lot of friends, many of them motorcycle riders, and they somehow started getting my phone number and ... finding out how they could help.

After more than a week of searching, fellow bikers heard Wintersteens shouts for help, according to a Facebook page organized for the search effort. He was found April 2 and has been recovering at a hospital since.

Story continues

His condition wasnt known as of Tuesday, April 18.

Wintersteen told WANF hes grateful to have been found alive.

God gave me more time, he told the station.

Blairsville is about 100 miles northeast of Atlanta.

Woman spends night clinging to tree after boat capsizes in Texas river, rescuers say

Hiker trying to save dog that fell off ridge gets stuck below Hawaii trail, rescuers say

Hiker and dog were stuck on steep and rocky cliff  then rescuers saw his headlamp
Passengers hug on a platform next to a train arriving at the station in Kramatorsk, in the Donetsk region on April 8, 2023. Genya Savilov/AFP via Getty Images

Civilian-run groups are evacuating Ukrainians trapped in Russia or occupied territories in Ukraine.

The job is risky but vital, three volunteers with one such group  Helping to Leave  told Insider.

The group has helped more than 160,000 people, including some who were forcibly deported to Russia.

Elisavet Karsanidi was surprised when she was told her mobile phone number is written on the walls of a destroyed building in Mariupol.

But ultimately, she's glad it's there as a first port of call for Ukrainians who are desperate to evacuate the war-torn country, she told Insider in an interview.

Karsanidi is part of a non-governmental organization called Helping to Leave, which launched hours after Russia invaded Ukraine last year and has since grown into one of the largest assistance projects in the war to date.

The group has provided financial, legal, medical, and psychological help to around 160,000 Ukrainians since the start of the war, according to an annual report published last month. It also helps evacuate them.

The job is rewarding but can be high-stakes, three volunteers, including Karsanidi, told Insider.

"Every day feels like a cardiogram. Every day you feel from high to low, and you go there so easily," Nelli Isaieva, a supervisor for the group, told Insider. "But it makes me feel like I'm doing something good."

Isaieva, who is from Ukraine, helps evacuate people out of temporarily occupied regions, like Mariupol, which was captured by the Russians late last year and has remained under their control.

An elderly woman lays in the back of the van after being evacuated her from her house in Kostyantynivka, Ukraine, on March 21, 2023 Ignacio Marin/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

But in March 2022, Isaieva said they also started getting messages from Ukrainians who are stuck in Russia after they were forcibly deported there.

Ukraine and the West have accused Russia of running a forced relocation and deportation program that they say has seen hundreds of thousands of people displaced.

Before being deported, many are forced to go through abusive screening processes  known as "filtration"  which may result in detention, strip searches, or torture, an Amnesty International report published late last year said.

Story continues

For Ukrainians who are deported, it is difficult to get out because many have their passports seized and replaced with Russian documentation, officials have said.

Russia has also illegally transferred thousands of Ukrainian children to Russia, the UN Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine said in a report published last month. According to a Ukrainian database, more than 16,000 children had been deported as of February this year, the report said.

Isaieva told Insider that in some cases, they also help children to get out of Russia, though this is a more complicated task and depends on different factors, including how old the children are, and what their parents want for them.

The NGO also helps other vulnerable communities, like a group of Ukrainian men in wheelchairs who were able to escape a Russian deportation center they were provided with legal support and transport, Insider previously reported. They have since relocated to Norway.

At the time of writing, Helping to Leave has helped evacuate around 2,000 Ukrainians who were forcibly deported to Russia, the annual report said.

How it works

The process of evacuating people differs from case to case, but largely works like this, according to the volunteers:

Anyone wishing to leave reaches out to the group on Telegram.

The team, which includes Ukrainian, Russian, and English speakers, looks at all the different options they can get them out and then fact-checks the routes.

If people are in need of medical or legal assistance, Helping to Leave connects them to the relevant people. It has volunteers spread across Europe, but also volunteers on the ground, like drivers.

If people want to be relocated to a different country, they get sent a database of all the places they can go to.

The group uses donations to cover most expenses, like chartering buses, hiring drivers, or paying for train tickets.

Members of the team stay in touch with people and help find the resources they need until they're safe.

While in some cases, providing reliable information is enough to help someone get to safety, other cases can take weeks.

Yuliia Kostrik, who helps people get out of the Kherson region, told Insider that they never force people to make any decisions, adding: "We can only offer options and allow them to decide themselves. But we do try to provide as many options as possible."

The most rewarding feeling is once people have made it out of the war safely, the team members told Insider.

"When I get calls from people who have gotten out, that is the best feeling," Kostrik added.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Shannon Stapleton/Reuters

Back when Jim Jordan was a collegiate wrestling champion, the strategy would have been called a double misdirection duck under.

As a Trump-adoring Republican congressman from Ohio and chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, Jordans initial misdirection on Monday was convening a hearing in New York to examine how Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Braggs pro-crime, anti-victim policies have led to an increase in violent crime and a dangerous community for New York City residents.

In truth, the violent crime rate is declining in Manhattan, with murders down 14 percent, shootings down 17 percent, and robberies down 8 percent. Jordan was just seeking to undermine Bragg and therefore the 34-count indictment he had secured against Trump 13 days before.

Don't be fooled, this is not a serious exercise, this is a political stunt, Rep. Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) warned as the charade on the sixth floor of the federal building was about to begin. Jim Jordan and his Republican accomplices are acting as an extension of the Trump defense team trying to intimidate a duly elected district attorney of Manhattan.

To mask the actual crime numbers, Jordan applied a second misdirection, inviting the families of two murder victims, the father of a hate crime, and a Manhattan bodega clerk who was charged with homicide after killing a robber but later deemed to have acted in self-defense.

The emotional impact of each individual case eclipsed the statistics. And the Democrats faced the impossible challenge of insisting that crime is down while people whose loved ones have been victims of violence are at the witness table a few feet away. More than one grieving relative was roused to fury.

Then came the duck under.

Manhattan DA Sues Rep. Jim Jordan to Stop Intimidation

While some 90 percent of New York homicides involve a firearm, all the killings described by the witnesses were committed with a knife. Had a gun been involved, the Democrats would have no doubt raised the question of how the weapon came to be in New York. The vast majority of them originate from the iron pipeline: red southern states with lax gun laws.

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There was no inconvenient pistol for the likes of gun rights fanatic Rep. Troy Edwin Nehls (R-TX) to explain away. He spoke as if he were righteousness itself when he addressed Bragg, as though the prosecutor was physically present at the hearing.

Youre a disgrace to this county and I will do everything I can to hold you accountable, said Nehls, a former police officer fired for allegedly destroying evidence.

The full double misdirection duck under was on display when Rep. Dan Goldman (D-NY) told the witnesses that he viewed the hearing as a charade aimed at assisting Trump. Madeline Brame reacted as a mother who feels justice has still not been done after the fatal knifing of her 35-year-old son, Hason Correra, in UPper Manhattan in 2018. Two men are serving 20 years to life, but Bragg dropped the charges against two other people she feels were involved. She works as a victim advocate and she pointedly told Goldman that victims do not care about politics.

Dont insult my intelligence, she told Goldman. Youre trying to insult me like Im not aware of whats going on here.

A particularly pointed critique of Jordans approach was later voiced by Mark House, the principal of Bronx Engineering and Technology Academy. He is also both a gun owner and a member of Bradys Regional New York Leadership Council for gun reform, which is why he spoke, along with New York Mayor Eric Adams, on a second-floor balcony at the federal building just before the hearing.

I told my students I was going to miss the first period today to come down here and try to speak a little truth on their behalf, House began. Lets take our visiting politicians at their word today. Lets assume that they want to talk about violence in New York City, my city. Well, then lets talk.

He addressed the issue as Jordan would haveif he were legit and not sticking to knife violence for political expediency.

What makes violence in our city, their cities, their state, so violent? House asked. Simple. Guns.

House listed what Jordan was not going to address for all his talk of reducing crime: Unregulated guns, unrestricted sales, no background checks. He described the impact of Jordan and his pals playing politics amid the public health epidemic of gun violence.

Because of the failure in Congress to act to strengthen our laws, my students have to regularly partake in school lockdown drills that I administer, I direct, he said. I have to teach our kids how to hide, how to secure the doors in their classrooms, how to stay quiet so somebody with a gun doesnt hunt them down in their own schools.

He concluded, Enough. Enough of the hypocrisy, enough of the politics, enough of the excuses, enough of the thoughts and prayers, enough of the lockdown drills, enough of the shootings. The time for action is now.

As Jordan performed a double misdirection duck under in a political stunt disguised as a hearing, House returned to his school, where state law requires him to perform four lockdown drills a year.

Everybody has to lock their doors, turn off the lights and try to hide, he told The Daily Beast. They have to be quiet. I go by, rattle the door handle, and listen.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Jan Davis Tire Store, an Asheville staple, fell victim to arson earlier this month, according to police.

ASHEVILLE - Detectives are continuing to investigate what is believed to be arson at a longtime downtown Asheville business.

Former City Council Member Jan Davis, 75, has operated the business  Jan Davis Tire Store on Patton Avenue  for "going on 39 years," he told the Citizen Times.

He is among the ranks of those concerned by behavior from some living on Asheville's streets, and calling for change. Among other things, increased police presence, better pay and harsher accountability from magistrates would make a difference, Davis said.

"We are a tourist destination, and that's going to change if we don't do something," he said. "We're going to lose jobs and revenue if we don't make the streets safer."

He expects the arson to cost him $300,000 and several weeks out of commission.

No arrest had been made as of April 17, APD spokesperson Samantha Booth confirmed via email.

Related: Asheville police: Violent crime up across city, property crime down in 2022

More: Asheville police: Couple robbed at gunpoint downtown

More: Housing, homelessness, cops and crime: Downtown discussed at Asheville CIBO

"Detectives are continuing to investigate," she said.

"The Asheville Fire Department responded to an unoccupied business located near the 205 block of Patton Ave around 5:30 a.m. on April 7 for a report of a tire fire," Booth first wrote in an April 13 news release. "When crews arrived on the scene, they located a stack of tires against the building on fire with an extension into the building. There were no reports of injuries to civilians or first responders. Fire investigators have determined this fire was intentionally set."

Davis said that a neighboring business' security cameras caught two people setting fire with an accelerant to tires outside before it spread onto the building.

An AFD incident report, obtained by the Citizen Times with a public records request, offers little more information.

"The scene was documented with still photography, a matterport camera, and aerial photography," the report said. "The AFD investigation unit will continue to work in conjunction with APD to investigate this incident. The property owner was provided with both AFD and APD's incident numbers and advised to not touch any items until permitted by their insurance company."

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Asheville police arrested Allen Lee Honeycutt, 42, earlier this month for an alleged separate arson incident at a business, according to a joint news release from APD and AFD. Police charged him with arson and felony breaking and entering. At press time he is in the county jail.

A larger conversation around homelessness, crime, substance abuse, tourism and the city's government took off earlier this year, fueled in part by downtown business owners and workers who say that Asheville's culture as a whole has changed for the worse. They have raised common complaints: harassment when walking back to their cars, defecation and urination in the streets and a general fear to be in Asheville  and downtown especially.

Police presence downtown has shrunk dramatically amid years of severe understaffing. In recent months, police officials have said the department is short of about 40% of its workforce.

Right now, downtown, we have two officers and maybe two working extra, APD Capt. Mike Lamb told a crowd at the Council of Independent Business Owners in March. We used to have 12 officers, eight that were within our Charlie (downtown) District, and then two or three extra that would work in the evening. So, thats how much lower our numbers are.

The department was unable to provide conclusive data linking unhoused people to crime, Lamb said at the time. A homeless person could have a number of addresses listed on a warrant  a homeless shelter, the jail or their address before they became homeless, he noted.

More: 40 murder defendants waiting to be prosecuted; 'stretched' Buncombe DA asks AG for help

More: Answer Man: Whats the law on distance between bikes, cars in North Carolina?

According to incident report data specific to downtown and provided by the department in a spreadsheet, there were 58 reports of violent incidents in 2022, a drop of 29% from the previous year. Property crime incidents were also down, with 336 reported in 2022 and 351 in 2021. Since 2013, there were four oyears that had more of those incidents reported than last year: 2013, 2018, 2019 and 2021.

But in a more recent, different dataset looking at Asheville as a whole rather than just downtown, property crime went down in 2022 while violent crime rose.

Violent crime trended at historically high levels both in the city and nationally in 2022, Police Chief David Zack said at a March Environment and Safety Committee meeting. There was a 17.4% increase from 2021 to 2022, according to his data. The number has steadily climbed, with some aberrations, since 2013.

The city and county have partnered in a new way, with Buncombe County deputies patrolling downtown amid understaffing, the Citizen Times reported on April 14.

"I'm very compassionate to homeless people," Davis told the Citizen Times. "Most people are on the street by circumstance or bad decisions. On the other hand, I certainly can't condone the criminal behavior that we have, without anything being done about it. It's constant."

Ryan Oehrli covers public safety, breaking news, courts and other beats for the Citizen Times. Comments? Questions? Tips? Send them to coehrli@citizentimes.com or 252-944-6816. Please support local, daily journalism with a subscription to the Citizen Times.

This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Investigation into downtown Asheville arson ongoing
DES MOINES, Iowa  Democrats in the Hawkeye State are feeling divided about whats likely to be a demoted status in the 2024 presidential contest, with some hoping to find ways to salvage parts of their most cherished political tradition.

The Democratic National Committees move to knock Iowa from its perch as the first-in-the-nation caucus  a point of pride among Iowans for decades  has inspired mixed reactions from Democrats on the ground, with some validating calls for more diverse states to go earlier and others defending the merits of preserving their historical prominence.

As Republicans begin to barnstorm the state, Democrats there are coming to terms with the reality that politicians from their side of the aisle will have few reasons to make the trip, leaving residents somewhere between dispirited and cautiously optimistic.

It is very important to many, many people, said MD Isley, a Democrat from Des Moines and regular caucusgoer for progressive candidates. The loss of it on the Democratic side is very painful, and its painful to watch.

Democrats here see the state slipping further into GOP territory, and the caucus shakeup further amplifies the divide. Iowas become redder as local and national Republicans have made inroads in general elections and as Democrats have publicly shown a desire to downgrade the states importance when choosing their presidential nominees.

Some liberals see the changing caucus dynamics as an indication that the national party is setting its priorities elsewhere, including targeting areas they believe more accurately represent the countrys national composite.

I do have concerns about appropriate representation of the population, so I do understand and personally support why there would be movement in a different direction outside of Iowa, Isley said.

Im personally not bothered by it, but I do understand and empathize with others that are sorry to see it go, he added.

Story continues

Some Democrats, including young voters and other liberals who are typically heavily engaged in the process, say its good for the party to move away from overemphasizing a small state with mostly white residents.

They support the values of representation and inclusivity the party is hoping to prioritize again in the next cycle, following President Bidens commitment to creating a vastly diverse administration.

It would be sad to see the Iowa caucus go away; however, I do support letting other states and more diverse places have their first pick at a presidential candidate, said Dennis Bowen, a 32-year-old student at Des Moines Area Community College and registered Democrat.

Weve had the caucuses now for about 50 years, and so its always good to get other perspectives, he said.

A big part of the caucus process is to allow White House aspirants from different backgrounds to have opportunities to rise in the nominating ranks, especially those who are less likely to receive as much attention or significant funding elsewhere. Likewise, its a chance for residents to see who might be the best to propel the country forward, even if theyre less nationally known.

In recent Democratic cycles, some candidates with nontraditional bonafides have done surprisingly well in the caucus, including Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), a self-described democratic socialist, and more recently, Pete Buttigieg, the former mayor of South Bend, Ind., whos now serving as Bidens transportation secretary.

Sanders and Buttigieg offered something fresh for a party seeking to revamp its image at critical moments. Although Sanders narrowly lost to Hillary Clinton in 2016, his economic populist pitch attracted droves of supporters, while Buttigieg in the next cycle gave off a youthful and sensible perspective in the eyes of many voters.

In 2024, the caucus process is expected to be vastly different, not only because Democrats arent likely to have an open primary  Biden, although he hasnt officially launched a reelection campaign, is thought to be the presumptive nominee  but because Iowa Democrats are going to be more muted.

In downtown Des Moines, many Democrats understand the tradeoff. They see the value of having others go ahead, but also dont want to feel left behind after leading the process for roughly a half-century.

The proposed changes have also raised some economic concerns. Residents say the state gets a boom each election when Democratic candidates come to campaign, and the additional eyeballs on their cities and towns help change misconceptions about what the state represents.

Its really disappointing to see it go away because we really care about it, and its obviously a really good thing for our state with revenue and tourism as well, said Heather Plum, an Ankeny resident who caucuses regularly for Democrats.

Iowa is very often considered a flyover state, she said after lunch at Bubba, a southern comfort restaurant. We really are a hidden gem. That is the loss for me. Its a spotlight on Iowa.

The expected shuffle has caused some within the party to explore other ways to stay in the broader national discussion, even as theyve come to accept that South Carolina, the state that helped Biden win a victory in the 2020 primary, is scheduled to take their place.

Last week, Iowa Democrats wrote a memo to the DNC asking for a monthlong extension to work out their preferred place in the lineup and also asked for mail-in ballots to be allowed in the caucuses, something Republicans are actively lobbying against in the state.

I am committed to holding the most inclusive and accessible caucuses in Iowa history, Iowa Democratic Party Chair Rita Hart wrote in her letter to the DNC.

Folks who work third shift, people with disabilities, and parents of young children should have a voice in Iowas presidential nominating process, she continued. I look forward to posting our Delegate Selection Plan for public comment soon.

Waiting for his meal at Bubba with other political enthusiasts, Isley said Iowans are right to acknowledge the very valid concerns over potential losses of economic opportunities that may emerge as a result of moving the caucus.

But like other voters here, he suggested its about keeping a forward-looking eye on the future of the party and putting things into perspective.

We are a large nation of many people, he said, and the process should be representative of all.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The Iowa bill would allow teens to work longer hours, take jobs on assembly lines, and serve alcohol. Luis Alvarez/Getty Images

The Iowa Senate voted just before 5 a.m. to pass a bill that would roll back child labor laws.

The bill, if passed by the House, would allow teens to work longer hours and serve alcohol.

A state labor leader told Insider he thought the bill's early-morning passage was a "disgrace."

Iowa's Republican-led state senate voted in an early-morning session to roll back child labor laws in the state  allowing teens to work longer hours and to serve alcohol at their jobs.

The bill passed 32-17 before 5 a.m. local time on Tuesday with two Republicans  Sens. Charlie McClintock and Jeff Taylor  joining the entire Democratic party in opposition of the bill.

The bill would allow sixteen and seventeen-year-olds to work until 9:00 p.m. during the school year and until 11:00 p.m. over the summer. It also allows same-aged kids to serve alcohol in restaurants if their parents sign off on it.

The bill prohibits fourteen and fifteen-year-olds from any mining or manufacturing work but adds that anyone under the age of eighteen can do "light" assembly line or packaging work  as long as machines aren't involved.

The voting session had dragged into the early morning because supporter GOP Sen. Adrian Dickey refused to answer a question from Democrats about amendments to the bill, the Des Moines Register reported.

The bill now goes to the House of Representatives for a vote.

A slew of Democrats and labor leaders in the state have spoken out against the bill, noting that it could create unsafe work environments for kids.

According to the Register, Democrats had tried to include additional amendments to the bill to offer additional workers' compensation benefits to any teens that got injured on the job.

Charlie Wishman, the President of the Iowa Federation of Labor AFL-CIO, told Insider in a statement he thought the passing of the bill is a "disgrace," adding that it will "do nothing to attract new Iowans, and puts children at risk of death in dangerous occupations."

Story continues

"Every parent wants their kids to grow up with every opportunity to succeed, not risk an early death by working in dangerous jobs," Wishman said. "The legislation passed by the Senate tonight is every parent's worst nightmare."

He added that "the majority party's inability and unwillingness to answer any questions about this legislation disenfranchises Iowans from the political process and takes away their elected representatives' ability to get them answers."

"If the Iowa Senate wishes to operate in this fashion, democracy dies in our state," Wishman told Insider.

Iowa Senate Democratic Leader Zach Wahls in a statement to Insider called the bill "dangerous" that "will allow Iowa kids to serve alcohol, work in roofing and demolition, and inside industrial freezers  and they passed it in the dead of the night when they thought they could dodge democratic accountability."

He continued: "If this legislation becomes law, Iowa kids will be exposed to dangerous working conditions that violate federal law and threaten their health and wellbeing. This bill is immoral, illogical, and it will lead to more kids getting injured and killed in workplace accidents. While Iowa is facing a workforce crisis, Senate Republicans shouldn't try to solve it on the backs of children."

Gov. Kim Reynolds has previously spoken in favor of the bill, telling reporters this month she doesn't think "we should discourage" kids wanting to work and to earn money, the Des Moines Register reported.

At an April 4 press event, Reynolds, speaking about the bill, pointed to her own experience working as a teen babysitting and waiting tables, according to the Register.

"That's good experience," Reynolds said. "You know, it teaches the kids a lot and if they have the time to do it and they want to earn some additional money I don't think we should discourage that."

Reynolds did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment.

Other supporters of the bill, including Dickey, have argued that the bill will teach Iowa's children important skills in workforce training programs, the Register reported.

"While the responsibility of having a job might be more valuable than having a paycheck, the reward of the paycheck will allow these youth who want to have a job to possibly save for a car, maybe buy a prom dress, go to a summer camp, take a date out for the weekend," Dickey said, according to the Register.

In addition to rolling back child labor laws, Republicans in the state have voted to restrict SNAP food benefits.

This month, legislators passed a bill that adds hurdles for those wanting food assistance, including banning anyone with more than $15,000 in liquid assets or savings from getting benefits and requiring state agencies to run identification checks on beneficiaries.

An earlier version of the bill banned people on the food assistance program from buying staples like white bread or American cheese, but that was stripped from the final bill.

Read the original article on Business Insider
This story is part of The News & Observers new Tasty Triangle series.

Heres the math. On Saturday morning, Isaac Henrion and his team brought roughly 1,600 bagels to the Durham Farmers Market. They started selling at 8 a.m.

At any moment over the next three hours, the line approaching their stand was about seven to 10 patrons deep. It moved at a brisk pace, as the menu options were simple: seven flavors of bagels, six types of cream cheese. Each bagel cost $2.50. Bakers dozens were $24.

By 11:07 a.m., the bagels were sold out. Thats eight purchased every minute, on average.

Henrion, 30, is now accustomed to not having any leftover bagels. What began as a pandemic-era project in his home kitchen is now the trendiest bagel in the Triangle.

We just keep trying to grow organically every week, Henrion said. We try to make a little bit more. We try to make them a little bit better.

The communitys appetite for Isaacs Bagels surely reflects that many lifelong Southerners appreciate no-frills, New York-style bagels, along with their barbecue and Cheerwine. But it also exemplifies an obvious demographics shift  that thousands of bagel-appreciating northerners (like me) have brought their taste buds to the Triangle.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 365,000 New Yorkers moved to North Carolina between 2006 to 2019, with a net migration of 218,200 people in North Carolinas favor.

That includes me, as I relocated from the Big Apple to Asheville four years ago. Asheville had a lot to offer: bears, beards, breweries, the Biltmore, but good bagels it did not. Coming over to the Triangle last summer, I again found local bagel options lacking. Benchwarmers Bagels in Raleighs Transfer Food Hall tends to top Best Bagels in North Carolina rankings, but its a schlep from my place in Durham.

Henrion, who grew up in the United Kingdom but spent time in New York City in his 20s, saw a void that could be filled with his New York-style bagels.

Story continues

Classic stuff that people like, and just try to focus really hard on that, Henrion said as customers cycled through the line. Right now, we just have bagels and cream cheese. Its not crazy.

How Isaacs Bagels are made

Isaacs Bagels comes down to three basic steps: boil, season and bake. Old over bold. Hand-rolled and water boiled rather than machine-made and steamed.

Inside a Durham commissary kitchen, the team, including Henrion, his wife, Karly, and a crew of bakers, sinks rolled dough into kettles of boiling water darkened with malt syrup. Henrion says that gives the finished product a subtle maltiness and shine. The dough is then coated on all sides with seeds: poppy, sesame, onion, salt and pepper, everything or cinnamon raisin, before the dough is chilled for two days. This allows the bagels to ferment before theyre baked into rings of flaky, chewy, airy delightfulness.

Yes, Im a fan. The outer layers feel distinct, a crispy barrier to the textures inside. The cream cheese flavors are fun, though I am not. I stuck to plain and dill scallion, while the other flavors are burnt jalapeno, fig honey, Sichuan chili, and lox capers.

When discussing New York and bagels, the subtext is Jewish culture. Bagels originated in the shtetls of Poland and have remain intertwined with delicatessen fare. Good bagels were ubiquitous growing up. The population of my Rochester, New York suburb was about 30% Jewish (me included.) We had the Bagel Bin, Bagel Land, plus Brownsteins Deli within walking distance.

That North Carolina had a relative dearth of these types of establishments felt unfamiliar.

But the Jewish population in the state has been growing. According to the Institute of Southern Jewish Life, there were around 10,000 North Carolina Jews in 1960. By 2011, that figure had tripled. Data from Jewish Heritage North Carolina suggests there were as many as 45,000 Jews in the state by 2019.

In addition to the Saturday market, customers can pre-order fresh Isaacs Bagels for home delivery (Durham locations only) or for pick-up at the Jewish Community Center. Frozen bagels are available all week at the Durham Co-op Market.

By the end of the year, Isaacs Bagels expects to open its first brick and mortar store at 1003 W. Chapel Hill St., where itll sell popular bagels and schmears.

When we open the shop, were going to have a lot of stuff that fits within that cuisine, said Henrion, who is not Jewish himself. Because were focused very much on treating it like a cuisine that were trying to honor the best we can, I think that resonates with a lot of Jewish people who are our customers.

To me, that will make Durham feel more like home.

Details

Isaacs Bagels can be bought at the Durham Farmers Market on Saturday; for delivery or pickup on Sundays; or sliced and frozen at the Durham Co-Op Market during the week. Go to isaacsbagels.com for details.

Tasty Triangle

 Have a restaurant or dish we should try? Let us know at https://bit.ly/3GbBMOp.

 Read more stories from our Tasty Triangle series at newsobserver.com/topics/tasty-triangle.

Our new Tasty Triangle series is devoted to beloved dishes of the region. You can help
Princess Rita Boncompagni Ludovisi has been served with an eviction notice amid a dispute with her stepsons over the Roman villa she and her husband shared until his death in 2018.

The 500-year-old, 30,000 square-foot villa in the heart of Rome has been put up for auction several times, but no bids were placed.

Once known as Rita Jenrette, then wife of U.S. Rep. John Jenrette of South Carolinas Pee Dee, said Monday she has appealed the order and is uncertain what she will do if the police show up at her door on Thursday.

She hopes to reach a settlement with her stepsons and gain more time to move.

In his will, her husband Prince Nicolo Boncompagni Ludovis left her 50% of the proceeds if the house were sold and the right to live there for life. His three sons would split the rest.

Villa Aurora, valued at more than $500 million in the first auction, was built in 1570 by Francesco del Nero, a member of a rich Florentine family and a treasurer of pope Clement VII.

Neglected for years, the villa holds antiquities and masterpieces  a statue of the Greek god Pan attributed to Michelangelo, a rare Caraviaggio mural, which represents most of the value of the house..

Galileo, Goethe, Tchaikovsky were visitors to the estate that once covered almost 90 acres. At one time the property held the home of Julius Caesar.

The Ludovisi family has owned the villa since 1621.

Another auction is scheduled for June 30. The asking price is now $158 million.

Also living in the villa is a Ukrainian refugee family  the daughter and grandchildren of Ludovisis housekeeper. Amid their fears for their family in Ukraine, they are now worried about the eviction.

I will never abandon them, Ludovisi said.

She and her husband spent years restoring the mansion, including replacing the roof that birds flew into the house through, but much remains to be done.

Ludovisi has also digitized the family archive, some of which was found in a locked trunk. T. Corey Brennan, a classics professor at Rutgers University who is helping her, has said they have accumulated some 150,000 pages of material.

Story continues

They found revealing letters from Marie Antoinette in perfect condition, he said.

They have gathered some of the material into a book that will be published in late 2023 by Brepols, which specializes in fine books on the humanities.

The book is dedicated to the prince.

The princess was married to Jenrette for five years while he was an up and coming congressman. He served three terms before losing after he got caught up in what was known as ABSCAM, an FBI sting operation to uncover political corruption.

Thirty-one public officials were targeted for the investigation, in which FBI agents posed as representatives of a fictional Abdul Enterprises, Ltd., owned by an Arab sheik. They were offered money for votes on government contracts benefiting the sheik.

Five congressmen, including Jenrette, were convicted of bribery and corruption.

Jenrette spent 13 months in federal prison. He died in March.

His wife divorced him and moved to Los Angeles, where she made movies and was a reporter for the A Current Affair television show.

She then moved to New York where she had a six- and seven-figure income as a real estate broker before meeting the prince In 2003 and moving to Rome.
The head of Italy's privacy watchdog was hopeful Tuesday that OpenAI would adjust its AI chatbot so it could be back online in the country at the end of April.

Italy's watchdog temporarily blocked ChatGPT at the end of March over data privacy concerns, becoming the first Western country to take action against the popular artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot.

"We are ready to reopen ChatGPT on April 30, if there is a willingness on the part of OpenAI to take useful steps," Data Protection Authority chief Pasquale Stanzione told the Corriere della Sera daily.

"It seems that on the company's side there is, we'll see," he said.

ChatGPT caused a global sensation when it was released last year for generating essays, songs, exams and even news articles from brief prompts.

But critics have long fretted it was unclear where ChatGPT and its competitors got their data or how they processed it.

Italy's data protection watchdog had said that US firm OpenAI, which makes ChatGPT, had no legal basis to justify the mass collection and storage of personal data for training the algorithms underlying the operation of the platform.

The authority also highlighted a lack of clarity over whose data was being collected.

It said wrong answers given by the chatbot were not being handled properly and accused the firm of exposing children to "absolutely unsuitable answers".

On Tuesday, Stanzione insisted users' ages must be verified and OpenAI must "indicate a method to reduce the risk of wrong answers".

Users should be "clearly informed that their data is being used for a specific purpose, the training of the algorithm", he added.

The runaway success of ChatGPT garnered OpenAI a multibillion-dollar deal with Microsoft, which uses the technology in its Bing search engine and other programmes.

It also sparked a gold rush among other tech firms and venture capitalists, with Google hurrying out its own chatbot and investors pouring cash into all manner of AI projects.

ljm/ide/ar/ach
BTS star J-Hope was set to start his mandatory South Korean military service on Tuesday, local media reported, the second member to report for duty since the K-pop juggernaut went on hiatus last year.

The septet has become a global cultural phenomenon, selling out stadiums and dominating charts while raking in billions for South Korea's economy and building an international legion of fans known as ARMY.

But all able-bodied South Korean men must serve at least 18 months in the military, and after a years-long debate about whether BTS deserved an exemption, Jin, the oldest member of the group, began his service in December.

J-Hope -- whose full name is Jung Ho-seok -- was set to begin his five-week basic training at an army boot camp in Gangwon province on Tuesday, Yonhap News Agency reported.

The 29-year-old posted pictures of himself with a buzzcut on the South Korean social media platform Weverse on Monday.

"I love you, ARMY. I'll go and come back safely!" he said.

The post attracted thousands of comments from fans, with many expressing sorrow over the group's ongoing hiatus.

"Be careful and stay healthy... Say hi to Jin for us, please? We will miss you so much!" one wrote.

"It suits you so well," another wrote of J-Hope's buzzcut.

Jin left the comment "D-1" on one of J-Hope's Weverse posts on Monday -- a nod to the fact he had one day left before the start of his service.

The septet's agency HYBE had confirmed on April 1 that J-Hope would begin his service, but did not disclose details "to prevent any issues that might occur from crowding".

"The entrance ceremony is a time to be observed by military personnel and their families only," it had said.

"Fans are advised to refrain from visiting the site."

- 'Excited' -

J-Hope said during a livestream with fans last week that he was "excited" about his time in the military.

"It will be a new experience, and I will be learning to fit into a new society, and I'm excited about that," he said.

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"In the meantime, what I look forward to is living each day in a normal way, which is different from my usual lifestyle. This could make me healthier."

The band had cited exhaustion and the pressures of stratospheric success while dropping their bombshell hiatus announcement last year, saying they were taking a break to focus on their solo careers.

Analysts have questioned what the future holds for the group after all seven members complete their military service.

Some male K-pop stars have struggled to resume their careers after military service in a cut-throat industry where artists are easily replaceable.

"During the absence, (BTS) could lose their public interest, and the decline in popularity will damage their business," Lee Taek-gwang, a communications professor at Kyung Hee University, told AFP.

"It would not be easy for the boy band to reunite... this is not only the problem of BTS but also the problem of almost all (South Korean) boy bands and male celebrities."

cdl/ceb/qan
"Guy Ritchie's The Covenant" stars Dar Salim (left) and Jake Gyllenhaal. Getty; Marianne Ayala/Insider

Jake Gyllenhaal told Insider "Guy Ritchie's The Covenant" marks the first time he's ever cried watching himself on screen.

Dar Salim said his character reminds him of his parents who fled Baghdad with him when he was a child.

"The Covenant" opens in theaters on Friday.

Sitting in a room staring at a camera, Jake Gyllenhaal takes a deep breath and flashes a quick smile over Zoom.

He's all business.

Setting a serious tone makes sense. His latest movie, "Guy Ritchie's The Covenant" (in theaters Friday), is yet another example of what Gyllenhaal has been drawn to over his 32-year career on screen: projects filled with complexities and drama.

And what better way to promote it than to have a laser-focused stare?

Gyllenhaal prepares for the first question. However, it's not for him but for his costar Dar Salim, sitting next to him. Suddenly the star's demeanor changes as he takes in Salim's answer, even laughing when he's given his first question.

Comfort quickly sets in as the two actors speak candidly about working together on the project.

Gyllenhaal plays Army Sergeant John Kinley, who, during the war in Afghanistan, is rescued by his platoon's interpreter Ahmed, played by Salim, following a bloody firefight with the Taliban. Ahmed saves Kinley's life by dragging him for days to safety through the mountains. Later, back home in the US, Kinley learns Ahmed and his family is still in Afghanistan hiding from the Taliban. Unable to get his superiors to extract him, Kinley returns to the country alone to repay his unspoken debit and get Ahmed out.

In typical Guy Ritchie fashion, the visuals and action are significant pillars of the storytelling. But Insider's conversation with Gyllenhaal and Salim, a skilled character actor known for his work on Danish television, highlights what makes this action war movie unique: two people from opposite sides of the world forging an unlikely bond.

Here Gyllenhaal and Salim speak about how they built the story around a sparse script; Salim explains why, as an Iraqi, the film was important to him; and Gyllenhaal reveals why the movie marked the first time he'd ever cried watching something he'd starred in.

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Dar Salim and Jake Gyllenhaal (in cart) in "Guy Ritchie's The Covenant." Christopher Raphael/MGM

Dar, what was more challenging, Guy Ritchie's very scaled-down script or dragging Jake around?

Dar Salim: Oh, that's a tough one! [Laughs.] I have to say Guy Ritchie's script. The first week I had to take a deep breath or two to remind myself, "I got this." Because you are working with people who are the best in the world so you want to impress them.

Pushing Jake around was just the bonus. I like the physical stuff. It helped the character. And Jake was laying there, and two or three people were hired to throw stuff in his face. Rubble, blood. It was very uncomfortable for him, which obviously was very comfortable for me.

Jake, did you mess with Dar a little? Throw some rocks in with you on the cart to make it heavier?

Jake Gyllenhaal: No. I was just there for him. He obviously enjoys seeing me get beaten up. [Laughs.]

The lifeblood of this movie is the unique relationship that forms between your characters John and Ahmed. Jake, over the years how did you figure out the best way to go about gaining a connection with your costar so a story like this works?

Gyllenhaal: The nice thing about this movie, and what I think makes it interesting, is that there is no real bond between these two people. It's an arranged marriage. They are reluctantly connected all the way until the end. So it's not about making a bond. It's a promise that one makes to the other that he had to go back into danger to make good for him. And he doesn't do it for some sentimentality, or because he's a good guy. It's really basically that John cannot go forward with his life and fully be alive unless he goes back and fulfills a promise. And that's what I loved about it.

(L-R) Jake Gyllenhaal and Dar Salim in "Guy Ritchie's The Covenant." Christopher Raphael/MGM

So it didn't require us knowing each other, or even require us liking each other. [Laughs.] It was a fantastic unlikely way of telling a story. So many movies like this are about doing what's good, or it's filled with sentimentality, and this isn't like that  which is very much Guy Ritchie.

But Dar and I have gotten along from the moment we met.

Was that a bummer, honestly? With what you just said, would it have been good if you didn't like Dar?

Gyllenhaal: It's a lot more fun to play that you don't like each other than actually not liking each other.

Salim: And it also takes a lot of generosity by Jake to lead the other guy in and relax enough on a set to be able to play the way we play in this movie. It feels comfortable. You stop yourself from trying too hard.

Dar, was there any friendly competition between you and Jake? Was there a scene that you were like, "I'm going to act the hell out of this scene and kill it?"

Salim: You want to kill all the scenes. But it's never a competition. If you think like that, you're going to fail. Don't tell the other actors that, but it does not work like that. The more generous you are towards your colleagues it will come back to you and the camera will notice. When you try to do stuff like that, it's a waste of time, and often the director isn't going to use the footage.

But I will say, before we began shooting, I was concerned I was going to fade away next to Jake because he's such an amazing actor. I didn't know. I finally just focused on what I needed to do and did my job and let the movie gods do the rest.

Jake Gyllenhaal in 2005's "Jarhead." Universal Pictures

Jake, many will instantly think of "Jarhead" and the prep work you did for that when thinking of you doing a war movie. Did you do anything similar for this?

Gyllenhaal: Since then, I've played ex-military and been trained by amazing technical advisers. I've handled live weapons off-set, so, yes, "Jarhead" was the first time that I had ever played someone in the service, but the foundation has been built over many years. So filming this, I used everything I've learned. And then with the technical advisers on this movie, Special-Ops sergeants, they were there with us every day and kind of updated for me that stuff I had learned in the past.

Dar, you were born in Baghdad and fled to Denmark very early in your life. Do you see a family member in Ahmed? Or did memories of yourself as a child come back when you made this?

Salim: I think one of the strongest attributes an actor can have is empathy, which can be painful in your daily life, but you can understand what they are going through. A guy like Ahmed, for me, represents my parents' generation. It's not easy to flee your country when you're in your 30s and 40s and leave everything behind. So for me, it was emotional, and I find some pride in playing a guy like him from that part of the world and making him relatable to the European and American audiences. Showing that, look, he's a guy like John.

This reminds me of the scene where John reconnects with Ahmed later in the movie 

One of my favorite scenes! And it's done basically with so few words.

Salim: Yeah.

Gyllenhaal: It's a great scene  the physical distance between the two.

Salim: But you know, there's no doubt that the appreciation is there. Instead of Ahmed saying, "Oh, it must have been incredibly hard to find me," it's all inside him and he doesn't have to say it.

Jake Gyllenhaal in "Guy Ritchie's The Covenant." Christopher Raphael/MGM

Jake, we see you in some very intense scenes in this movie. I think fans of your work would be curious to know how you power down after doing a very emotional scene. Have you learned over the years how to just turn it off, or does it take a while?

Gyllenhaal: It's a strange job that we do, relaying our emotions and feelings like that. Over the years, it's become a technique, and you kind of learn to craft a space where you can play when the camera is rolling. And you have to prepare yourself for those things and understand the very simple questions that we ask ourselves as actors all the time: "Where is he coming from?" "Where is he going?"

But these stories stay with you, and they are a part of you, and it's the reason why you want to do them. So it works in both directions. There's a part of me that wanted to do it, so my heart is in it, so it's a part of me. And I do carry with me the experiences that I've had, and they don't ever really go away in a lot of ways. So the characters [and] experiences, they are with me always.

I will say this, though: I don't think I've ever watched a movie that I've been in and it's made me cry. This movie did when I saw it, which I was very surprised by.

What part made you cry?

Gyllenhaal: It was the ending. The very end. I was also very emotional in the very first firefight of the movie, when everything goes sideways. Guy tells a story, particularly through action, he really tells an emotional story. I was surprised how much it would mean to me, that first firefight scene. It really got me.

I can't really watch myself on screen, but the story here came through, and it just reminded me what we are as Americans and world citizens. Doing good is not without grudge or complications and a lot of complexity. This is a movie that says doing good is through action and, like what you said, oftentimes it's not what is said, it's about what's done.

This interview has been condensed and edited for clarity.

Read the original article on Insider
A week after suffering a medical complication, actor Jamie Foxx is still hospitalised in Georgia.

Last week, the 55-year-old actors daughter Corinne shared on Instagram that her father had experienced a health scare. She added that due to quick action and great care, Foxx is on his way to recovery.

On Monday (17 April), a source told CNN that the Django Unchained star is still hospitalised.

Details of Foxxs medical emergency havent been revealed.

In 2021, Foxx admitted his biggest parenting mistake was not making enough time for his daughter.

During an appearance on The Ellen Show web series Dad Confessions, Foxx said he compensated for not being home enough by simply taking his daughter Corrine to Disneyland.

I thought Disneyland would fix everything, Mickey Mouse is going to fix it. he said, adding that he subsequently realised Disneyland didnt distract Corrine from his absence in a very uncomfortable session with a therapist.

I found out my daughter was like, I dont need Disneyland, Dad, I just need you, he said.

(Ian West/PA)

He added: So thats the thing. Time, time is priceless.

Professionally, Foxx has been in Atlanta recently, filming the Netflix movie Back in Action with Cameron Diaz.

Two years ago, the Project Power star delivered an impressive impression of Donald Trump.

In an interview with Rap Radar, the actor casually slipped into a voice reminiscent of the former US presidents signature hushed tone.
(Bloomberg) -- The man suspected of throwing an explosive device at Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida may have nursed a grudge against the election system and the ruling partys ties to a fringe religion, local media reports said.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The 24-year-old taken into custody sought to run for election to Japans upper house of parliament last year but was rejected as too young to qualify as a candidate, Kyodo News reported Tuesday citing court documents.

The man identified as Ryuji Kimura has not spoken about the incident that took place on Saturday at a fishing port in the western prefecture of Wakayama, where Kishida was due to campaign for candidates from his Liberal Democratic Party, Kyodo said. There has been no lawyer speaking on behalf of the suspect.

A man by the same name and address as the suspect filed a lawsuit in a district court in June seeking 100,000 yen ($745) in damages for mental distress because he didnt qualify for the race, where candidates must be at least 30 years old and pay a 3 million yen deposit, Kyodo said.

The suit said the requirements violated the Constitution but the court dismissed the case, calling the conditions reasonable, Kyodo said.

Video of the weekend incident showed a pipe-like object being thrown from the crowd and landing near Kishida. The premier was whisked away by security personnel a few seconds before the device exploded. He was unharmed and one police officer suffered minor injuries.

The prime minister went back on the campaign trail hours later, calling the attack unforgivable. The incident rekindled memories of the fatal shooting of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who was gunned down about nine months ago by an assailant while making a campaign speech for the LDP.

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The suspect in the latest incident was angered by the decision of the Kishida government to have a state funeral for Abe, saying politicians like Abe were able to keep power through ties to groups like the Unification Church, the Mainichi newspaper reported court filings as saying.

The LDP saw a fall in its support in the weeks following the Abe assassination as the extent of its ties to the church emerged. The group has dozens of criminal and civil judgments against its members in Japan, many over its fund-raising methods.

But the attempted attack may have helped Kishida, who has seen his support rate climb in polls taken over the past few days. This has fueled speculation he could call an early national vote to solidify his leadership as he seeks to push through policies to head off a population decline threatening long-term economic health and raise wages for workers struggling to make ends meet.

Although he doesnt have to hold a vote for more than two years, Kishida could be tempted to call an early poll if the LDP does well in special elections this Sunday for five parliamentary seats, and if he can raise his profile through a successful hosting of the Group of Seven leaders meeting next month in his home town of Hiroshima.

Missing this current window for an election also carries a risk for Kishida, with the economy possibly weakening down the road.

Bloomberg Economics on March 31 cut its GDP growth forecast for Japan in 2023 to 0.8%, down from 1.1% previously. It said the nations economy could have a rough year as yen appreciation and weaker demand in the US and Europe takes a toll on exports.

--With assistance from Isabel Reynolds.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Jenny Mollen reflects on aging and plastic surgery in a new essay. (Photo: Jason Mendez/Getty Images)

Jenny Mollen is reflecting on aging and plastic surgery in a new essay for Oprah Daily.

The I Like You Just the Way I Am author, 43, recalled going into her plastic surgeons office to discuss having an upper blepharoplasty, a procedure in which a doctor removes extra skin from ones eyelids. But she was ultimately denied by the surgeon, who told her, You dont need your eyes done. Youd be crazy to start messing with your face, and if you do, youll regret it for the rest of your life.

In reflecting on the surgeons thoughts, the Girls alum, who wrote that she had previously undergone breast augmentation surgery, a breast lift, lower blepharoplasty and regular Botox treatments, noted, Today, our choices are endless. Potions and procedures promising not just pre-pubescent pores but photoshopped perfection accost us at every turn. Social media has given us the power to create the mythology of our own aging: With the swipe of a finger, we can filter out our flaws, cinch our waists, contour our cheekbones, and stay looking forever 21. But trying to embody this unrealistic beauty standard is as absurd as trying to fit into a too-tight piece of fast fashion.

Of the push-pull of aging, she continued, I want the respect of being over 40 but the power of being under 30. I want it all, the way every Hollywood rom-com promises. I want to be a mother of three, but also the CEO of my own company. A woman who has time for dry brushing and pedicures and date nights with her Armani-model husband who gets an erection the second she walks in the room. I spent the best years my body will ever see in a velour tracksuit, only to reach my 40s and learn that black-tie now means a bikini covered in full-length fishnet. Its not fair. But despite the surgeries, facials, lasers, and fillers, nothing has changed the way I feel about being older. Its both bittersweet and infuriating.

She concluded her essay with, "As the people around us start looking more and more like their iPhone Memojis, perhaps the biggest act of rebellion is to do nothing. But Im too big a narcissist for that. What we need as a culture is group therapy and transparency, people talking about how maddening it feels to be out of control. We need to fill our world with sticky notes reminding us what is real. Regardless of your current age, you are never going to be younger than you are right now. See, you just aged a second. So stop deleting pictures of yourself that you dont like, because 10 years from now, even a bad pic of you is a good one. And while youre at it, stop beating yourself up for being human. Life is happening. And unlike your forehead, you cant make it stand still."

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Mollen has previously spoken about feeling more confident with a little cosmetic tweaking. In 2019, she told Us Weekly of her regular Botox use, If you can smooth out a few lines, I think it does wonders for your psyche. Its important to empower women in any way possible. And I think that this is something that actually makes you feel good about yourself.

In 2020, she spoke to New Beauty about her love of Botox, adding that while she also tried lasers and other skin procedures, she had done nothing crazy yet to her face.

Im down for crazy, though, she added. Maybe I need to get into more now that Im in quarantine. Maybe that can be my new social life, just going to see my dermatologist a bunch.

Wellness, parenting, body image and more: Get to know the who behind the hoo with Yahoo Life's newsletter. Sign up here.
Jeremy Strong has defended his use of the term dramaturgically after the Succession star became a meme.

In a featurette airing after the historic third episode of Successions fourth and final season, Kendall Roy actor Strong said that he hadnt been terribly surprised by the episodes events.

I thought it made sense dramaturgically. And then when I read the script, I found it shocking and emotionally devastating, Strong said.

The clip quickly went viral online, with many social media users questioning whether dramaturgically was even a real word.

In response, the Merriam-Webster dictionary tweeted the words definition, describing it as relating to the art or technique of dramatic composition and theatrical representation.

Speaking to Entertainment Tonight, however, Strong has now doubled down on his use of the term.

When the interviewer told Strong he had had to Google its meaning, Strong responded: Well, its a real word.

Im a theatre nerd and its a theatre nerd word, so I stand by it, he said.

Strong raised eyebrows with his choice of word (Getty Images)

Strong is known for his method acting style and taking his work incredibly seriously  something his co-star Brian Cox has often dismissed.

However, their co-star Alan Ruck last month defended Strong, saying: Every actor is different Thats fine. Let him do it.

I think Jeremy is very hard on himself. And my personal feeling is that he doesnt fully trust his talent. I think it could be an easier path for him. But he doesnt believe it.

Following last weeks shocking episode, the writers of Succession shared the sneaky code they used to keep the shows biggest twist yet under wraps.

Fans, meanwhile, realised a clue about the events of season three had been hinted at in the poster for the last run of episodes.

You can read The Independents review of Successions  equally surprising  episode four here.

Succession airs Sundays on HBO Max in the US and on Mondays on Sky Atlantic and Now in the UK.
The attack ads are slowly ramping up between former President Donald Trump and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R), his potential rival for the 2024 GOP presidential nomination.

On Mondays broadcast of The Tonight Show, host Jimmy Fallon imagined how the pairs trading of blows may escalate  and go on and on.

Fallon also spitballed walkout music ideas for conservatives after President Joe Biden went on stage to Dropkick Murphys Im Shipping Up To Boston during his trip to Ireland last week.

Fallon first imagined Biden strutting out to Ginuwines Pony.

He then suggested mocking songs for Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.), Donald Trump Jr., former first lady Melania Trump and more.

Watch the video here:

Related...
Finding a job that pays enough to support for you and your family without a long list of job requirements can be difficult. When you factor in the costs of housing, utilities, local grocery prices and other necessities, jobs that pay a low wage may not cover basic living expenses.

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology calculated the living wage by county by evaluating typical expenses to find how much an individual must make hourly to support themselves, or multiple children or dependents in a full-time job.

MIT records living wages for individuals, couples and families that vary based on the number of dependents, number of children and the number of adults who are working. The living wages have also increased compared to Januarys calculations, according to previous reporting in The Bellingham Herald:

 Whatcom Countys living wage for an individual with no dependents is $17.47 per hour, working full time.

 For a household with two adults, no children, and only one individual working, a living wage in Whatcom County is $27.62 per hour.

 For a household with two adults, no children and both adults working, the living wage is $13.81 per hour.

 For a household with two adults, one child, and only one adult working, the living wage is $34.53 per hour. If this household had two children the living wage would be $39.51 an hour.

 For a household with two adults and two children and both adults working, the living wage is $25.98 per hour. If the family had three children, both individuals would need to make $32.10 per hour.

As Washington states minimum wage is $15.74 per hour, this amount is not considered a living wage in Whatcom County unless you have multiple adults working in a household with no dependents.

The Bellingham Herald has searched the job website Indeed and local Craiglist listings to find positions with minimal requirements that are available as of Monday, April 17, that advertise wages at or above living wages:

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House cleaner at Merry Maids

 Bellingham.

 Full-time.

 $17-$21 per hour.

 Valid drivers license required.

U.S. Postal Service mail carrier

 Bellingham, Lynden and Blaine.

 Part-time and full-time.

 $19-$33 per hour.

 No requirements listed.

Plywood press trainee at Mt. Baker Products, Inc.

 Bellingham.

 Full-time.

 $23.50 per hour.

 Must be at least 18 years old and no experience is needed.

Park worker for the city of Bellingham

 Bellingham.

 Full-time.

 $23.08 per hour.

 Requirements: valid drivers license, experience in grounds maintenance and the ability to obtain specific certifications and work.

For those looking for a job, the Port of Bellingham is also hosting its 2nd annual marine trade industry job fair and try-a-trade day from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, May 4. Employers such as Westwind Marine, Trident Seafoods, Dakota Creek Industries, Inc. and Bellingham Technical College will be at the event. The event is at Fishermans Pavilion at 2599 S. Harbor Loop Drive in Bellingham.
Jodie Turner-Smith and Joshua Jackson in 2023. Lionel Hahn/Getty Images

Joshua Jackson said he'd have had a "torrid affair" with wife Jodie Turner-Smith if they'd met "five years earlier."

"I was just not ready. I didn't think I ever wanted to get married," Jackson said of settling down.

The "Dawson's Creek" actor and Turner-Smith met in 2018 and got married in 2019.

Joshua Jackson revealed in a new interview that if he had met wife Jodie Turner-Smith just a few years earlier, the two likely would have had a passionate affair but might not have gotten married.

When the Sunday Times' Scarlett Russell asked Jackson what caused him to settle down with the "Queen & Slim" star, Jackson said his age played a part in the decision.

"Partially it's age. I'm old enough to be able to do this," Jackson said. "Partially it's about finding somebody in the right moment of life."

"If we had met five years earlier we probably would have had a torrid affair, but all the rest of this stuff, I was just not ready. I didn't think I ever wanted to get married," he added.

Jackson went on to say that both he and Turner-Smith initially pretended as though their relationship was "casual" after they met in 2018.

"Except that we'd spend every moment together and find reasons to be in other cities together at the same time," he explained.

Before his marriage to Turner-Smith, Jackson was in a relationship with "Inglourious Basterds" star Diane Kruger from 2006 to 2016. The pair split amicably after 10 years together, and Kruger went on to welcome a daughter with "The Walking Dead" star Norman Reedus in 2018. Kruger and Reedus became engaged in 2021.

Jackson and Turner-Smith tied the knot in 2019, after Turner-Smith proposed to the "Dawson's Creek" star during a vacation in Nicaragua. They later welcomed a daughter, Janie, in April 2020.

Jackson told the Times that he was overjoyed about being a parent with Turner-Smith.

"It is impossible for me to look into the face of my child without feeling love for my wife," he said.

Read the original article on Insider
Journalists found a military facility and a radar station of the Russian occupiers in Crimea.

Source: Skhemy, an investigative reporting project of Radio Liberty

Details: The project reports that a military facility was found on the E97 road to the right of the road in the direction of Kerch. A radar station is located next to it. The object on the satellite image from 17 April looks like this:

 '   , 17  2023 

A military facility near the Olviia stone quarries, 17 April 2023

Judging by satellite images, the construction of the military facility began on 24 July 2022, and it began to be operated in August. As Krym.Realii [Crimea.Realities, a project by Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty  ed.] reports, it is noteworthy that this object is not on Google maps.

 Google Maps     18  2023 

Screenshot of Google Maps of the Olviia stone quarries district from 18 April 2023

Background:

In November 2022, Russian-appointed "authorities" of the occupied Crimea ordered "fortification works to ensure the safety of Crimeans" to be built on the peninsula.

In the beginning of April, American publication The Washington Post reported that Russia has started to prepare the annexed Crimea for a Ukrainian counteroffensive, with the occupiers building a complete web of trenches and fortifications on the peninsula in just a few weeks.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
JACKSON, Miss. (AP)  Mississippi must join most other states in allowing religious exemptions from vaccinations that children are required to receive so they can attend school, a federal judge has ruled.

U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden handed down the decision Monday in a lawsuit filed last year by several parents who say their religious beliefs have led them to keep their children unvaccinated and out of Mississippi schools. According to the lawsuit, some of the plaintiffs are homeschooling their children, while others have family or work connections in Mississippi but live in other states that allow religious exemptions for childhood vaccinations.

Ozerden set a July 15 deadline for the Mississippi State Department of Health to allow religious exemptions. The state already allows people to apply for medical exemptions for a series of five vaccinations that are required for children to enroll in public or private school. The immunizations are against diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis; polio; hepatitis; measles, mumps and rubella; and chickenpox.

Mississippi does not require COVID-19 vaccinations.

The only states without religious or personal belief exemptions for school immunization requirements are California, Connecticut, Maine, Mississippi, New York and West Virginia, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

In response to questions from The Associated Press on Tuesday, health department spokesperson Liz Sharlot declined to say whether the department will appeal the judges ruling. She did not say whether the department has an estimate of how many people might seek religious exemptions from vaccinations.

The Mississippi State Department of Health continues to support strong immunization laws that protect our children, Sharlot said. Beyond that, it is our long-standing policy that the Agency does not comment on pending litigation.

The lawsuit, funded by the Texas-based Informed Consent Action Network, argued that Mississippi's lack of a religious exemption for childhood vaccinations violates the U.S. Constitution.

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The State of Mississippi affords a secular exemption to those with medical reasons that prohibit vaccination, reflecting that it can accommodate students that are unvaccinated, the network said in a statement. It has simply chosen to not accord an exemption when it is someones immortal soul that a parent believes would be at risk.

One of the families who are plaintiffs in the lawsuit believe God has created humans with functioning immune systems that were well designed to counteract threats, the lawsuit said, adding that they only seek out medication when an intervention is clearly necessary.

Mississippi once had a religious exemption for childhood vaccinations, but it was overturned in 1979 by a state court judge who ruled that vaccinated children have a constitutional right to be free from associating with their unvaccinated peers, the lawsuit said.

Over the last several years, Mississippi legislators have rejected proposals to allow religious exemptions for childhood vaccinations. Health officials have argued that allowing more exemptions could lead to the spread of preventable diseases.
Judge David Peltz ruled in favor of the University of Michigan in a case involving the ongoing U-M graduate workers' strike Monday, recommending the strike come to an end.

The decision  issued on behalf of the Michigan Employment Relations Commission  recommended the Graduate Employee Organization at U-M end its strike, finding the strike in violation of the union's contract with the university.

The GEO began its strike on March 29, mobilizing for better wages. Negotiations on the contract, currently set to expire on May 1, began in November 2022.

"The university is relying on these legal tools to keep things the way they are," said GEO President Jared Eno. "We were prepared for that, but it's still really disappointing that the university is trying to keep grad workers from fighting for what they deserve."

U-M officials filed the case on March 29, seeking an end to the strike under the university and union's collective bargaining agreement. Officials accused the union of engaging in an unfair labor practice through the strike, violating its contract with U-M.

The strike negatively impacts the campus community toward the end of its winter semester, said U-M spokesperson Rick Fitzgerald in a news release.

"This has left our students' exams and final grades in jeopardy at a crucial time near the end of the semester," Fitzgerald said. "While the university has worked diligently to ensure that the negative impact felt by students is minimized, it is in the best interest of the entire campus community, especially our undergraduate students, for GEO to stop its strike and return to the classroom."

The GEO continued its strike into its fourth week Monday, announcing upcoming events on social media for the week.

More: U-M graduate student workers on strike, seeking better pay and benefits

More: They come from different backgrounds, but new UAW leaders echo vision for change

Story continues

The GEO plans to appeal the recommendation to the Michigan Employment Relations Commission.

"As long as the university comes and bargains in good faith, we'll be able to get to a fair contract, but until then we'll continue to need to put pressure on them to do the right thing," Eno said.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: GEO to appeal recommendation, continue strike
Chancery Judge Jennifer Schloegel issued an order Thursday to close her courtroom to the media during the remainder of a trial for sanctions against former longtime federal drug agent and ex-Hancock County Narcotics Commander Ben Taylor over allegations of wrongdoing.

Attorney Michael Holleman is asking the judge to sanction Taylor by ordering him to pay all attorneys fees and court costs in a child support case in which Taylor is accused of producing fraudulent DNA tests to deny he fathered a girlfriends child.

Holleman represents the childs mother, Branissa Stroud, a co-petitioner in a state Department of Human Services lawsuit filed against Taylor in 2020. The minor child lives with Stroud.

Taylor was married during the time he was involved with Stroud.

The Sun Herald broke the story on the case and has covered it extensively since last year. That coverage has included attending court hearings in the case.

Former federal agent and current Hancock County sheriffs commander over narcotics, Benjamin Ben Taylor is pictured here with Branissa Stroud, and the child Stroud identifies as Taylors daughter.

The judge has since ordered and received the results of DNA tests to confirm the identity of the childs father.

In earlier testimony, Taylor denied producing the fraudulent documents, instead saying it was Stroud that forged the paperwork. She vehemently denied those claims.

A matter of privacy

In her order , Judge Schloegel said she was taking the protective measure as the evidence may reveal confidential information of the minor child and that the childs right to privacy and emotional well-being outweigh the publics interest in this matter.

The judge also issued a gag order in the April 13 ruling that prevents all parties and their attorneys and witnesses from speaking further about the case until the litigation is concluded.

Branissa Strouds lawyer, Michael Holleman, during a court hearing for Taylors case against DHS at Hancock County Chancery Court in Bay St. Louis on Monday, Sept. 12, 2022.

Based on ongoing testimony, the court has developed significant privacy concerns for the minor child, the order said.

Its not in her best interest to have defamatory allegations published for public dissemination and commentary, the order said. Once printed, the information remains in perpetuity for easy access and distribution via the Internet.

Story continues

It, therefore, poses a potential danger to the childs mental and emotional well-being for the rest of her life through no fault of her own, the order said.

A call for sanctions

In his request for sanctions against Taylor, Holleman outlined various allegations to support sanctions against Taylor.

Heres a look at them:

The judge issued the child support order against Taylor in August 2021, and Taylor ignored the order until the state seized thousands of dollars in income from him eight months later.

Taylor allegedly intercepted, ignored and disposed of an Aug. 10, 2020, court order sent to his federal employer to withhold the monthly child support payments from Taylors pay. Taylor was allegedly able to intercept the order because, at the time, he worked as a federal supervisory agent in Homeland Security Investigations within the U.S. Department of Immigration and Customs.

Taylor lied in court records about Stroud voluntarily submitting a DNA sample for herself and the child to support the fraudulent DNA test results. Stroud never gave Taylor a DNA sample for herself or her daughter.

Federal investigator Donald Smith in the inspector generals office for HSI called Holleman and Stroud on June 29, 2021, to tell them he was investigating Taylor for producing fraudulent DNA test results and other matters. Smith said his investigation confirmed the document was a forgery.

Federal investigator Smith told Holleman and Stroud that Taylor had failed a lie detector test administered by federal authorities about the alleged fraud and other matters.

Smith said he asked the U.S. Attorneys Office to seek a criminal indictment against Taylor for the crime, but the federal prosecutors office declined to do so.

Smith created a Brady file on Taylor about the fraud in the officers HSI employment record for disclosure to defense attorneys in cases Taylor investigated. A set of regulations known as the Brady Disclosures requires prosecutors to disclose such material on officers to defense attorneys to help them exonerate their clients in court.





The fake DNA test results are on letterhead in the name of Hunts Genetics and contain a fraudulent and forged signature of a non-existent laboratory director, along with a fraudulent notary stamp and forged signature in the name of Dayton, Ohio, notary Donnell Garry. The Sun Herald interviewed Garry, and he confirmed the fraud.

Taylor has had various attorneys in the case.

Judge Jennifer Schloegel presides over a court hearing for Ben Taylors case against DHS at Hancock County Chancery Court in Bay St. Louis on Monday, Sept. 12, 2022.

Attorney acknowledges fraud

Attorney Cassidy Anderson represented the ex-law enforcement officer but then got permission from the judge to step down after reports on the fraudulent DNA test results were submitted to the court.

Melanie Smith, a lawyer for the Department of Human Services, talks to Branissa Strouds lawyer, Michael Holleman, during a court hearing for Taylors case against DHS at Hancock County Chancery Court in Bay St. Louis on Monday, Sept. 12, 2022.

Taylor had given the attorney the fraudulent test results that the attorney used as exhibits in a motion requesting the judge to dismiss her August 2020 order adjudicating Taylor the father of the child and ordering him to pay $1,076 in monthly support and $7,760 in back child support.

MDHS didnt collect any funds from Taylor until the agency intercepted and seized $11,811 from Taylor for child support in early April 2021.

After that seizure, Taylor allegedly produced the fraudulent documents.

In one of Andersons last filings for Taylor, he asked the judge to dismiss his request for her to remove the child support order against Taylor, noting that the DNA test results that had been submitted falsely bears the notarial seal and signature of a notary.

Ben Taylors ex-girlfriend Branissa Stroud, center, and Taylors wife Dorean Taylor, right, sit in on a court hearing for Taylors case against DHS at Hancock County Chancery Court in Bay St. Louis on Monday, Sept. 12, 2022. Taylor failed to show up for court.

Ben Taylors wife Dorean Taylor talks with Branissa Strouds lawyer, Michael Holleman, during a court hearing for Taylors case against DHS at Hancock County Chancery Court in Bay St. Louis on Monday, Sept. 12, 2022.

In this December 2020 picture from the Bay St. Louis Police Department, former federal agent, local police officer, and current Hancock County Deputy Benjamin Ben Taylor, is recognized for his outstanding service in the city of Waveland.
Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich made his first public appearance in Russia after being arrested nearly three weeks ago on espionage charges as a judge upheld his pretrial detention at a Tuesday hearing, according to The Wall Street Journal.

Gershkovich, who has denied the charges against him, was in Moscow City Court for the hearing. The judge could have moved Gershkovich to another jail, permitted house arrest, or granted him bail, but ultimately decided on keeping him in custody until May 29.

U.S. Ambassador to Moscow Lynne Tracy and Gershkovichs lawyers, Tatyana Nozhkina and Maria Korchagina, were in the courtroom during the hearing, the newspaper says.

Gershkovich, who has been in custody since March 29, appeared at the hearing Tuesday in a see-through detention box, wearing jeans and a blue-checkered shirt.

WALL STREET JOURNAL RPEORTER IMPRISONED IN RUSSIA SAYS HE'S NOT LOSING HOPE IN HANDWRITTEN LETTER TO FAMILY

Evan Gershkovich, a Wall Street Journal reporter, is seen in Moscow during appeal hearing.

Russia's Federal Security Service has charged Gershkovich with espionage, accusing him of collecting "information constituting a state secret about the activities of an enterprise within Russias military-industrial complex," according to state media outlet Tass.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

The Wall Street Journal and the U.S. government have denied the charges against Gershkovich as well. The U.S. State Department last week designated Gershkovich as being "wrongfully detained" by Russian authorities. President Biden also has called the arrest "totally illegal."

GERSHKOVICH FAMILY SAYS CAPTURED WSJ REPORTER FELT IT WAS HIS DUTY TO REPORT ON RUSSIAN PEOPLE, DESPITE RISK

Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich is being held in Moscow's infamous Lefortovo prison.

"Journalism is not a crime. We condemn the Kremlins continued repression of independent voices in Russia, and its ongoing war against the truth," Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement. "The U.S. government will provide all appropriate support to Mr. Gershkovich and his family. We call for the Russian Federation to immediately release Mr. Gershkovich."

Story continues

Yesterday, Tracy visited Gershkovich at the Lefortovo prison where he was being held in what was the first time Russian authorities provided U.S. officials access to him since his arrest, according to The Wall Street Journal.

"He is in good health and remains strong," the newspaper quoted Tracy as saying. "We reiterate our call for his immediate release."

If convicted, Gershkovich reportedly would face a sentence of up to 20 years in prison.

Fox News' Paul Best contributed to this report.
ZURICH, Switzerland  One of the most spectacular Tyrannosaurus rex skeletons in existence sold for millions of dollars Tuesday at a Switzerland auction.

The well-preserved and brilliantly restored fossil fetched 5.5 million Swiss francs ($6.18 million), including the "buyers premium" and fees, Koller Auctions marketing director, Karl Green, told FOX Weather. It was first estimated to sell between 5 and 8 million Swiss francs.

"It went to a private European collector, and we do not know yet what they have in mind for showing it but will try to find out," Green said. "We hope it will be shown publicly somewhere."

PREHISTORIC SABERTOOTH SKULL FOUND IN IOWA LIKELY LAST OF SPECIES TO WALK EARTH, RESEARCHERS SAY

Koller auction house director Cyril Koller (center) gestures next to the skull of the 'Trinity' during sale of the skeleton of the Tyrannosaurus-Rex (T-Rex) by Koller auction house in Zurich, on April 18, 2023.

The approximate 67-million-year-old skeleton, known as TRX-293 Trinity, consists of nearly 300 bones (50.17% original bone material) from three dinosaurs excavated between 2008 and 2013 from the Hell Creek and Lance Creek formations in Montana and Wyoming, according to the auction house. Both sites are known for two of the most important T. rex discoveries.

In 1997, Sue sold at auction for $8.4 million to Chicagos Field Museum of Natural History. Another T. rex skeleton, known as Stan saw a world-record hammer price of $31.8 million in 2020, purchased by the History Museum Abu Dhabi. It catapulted dinosaur fossil prices into a realm usually reserved for the most sought-after works of art, the auction house said.

"Dinosaur skulls are very rare; they are among the most valuable components of fossil skeletons," said scientific advisor Nils Knotschke, one of the worlds leading fossil preparators. "In fact, most dinosaurs are found without their skulls. But here we have original Tyrannosaurus skull bones, all from the same specimen."

Trinity was dynamically mounted in a scientifically accurate and modern pose at a astonishing length of 11.6 meters (38 feet). It towers at a height of 3.9 meters (12.8 feet). It's a process that often takes between seven and 10 years for a team of palaeontologists, preparators and conservators.

Story continues

'I COULDNT BELIEVE WHAT I WAS LOOKING AT': RECORD-BREAKING DINOSAUR FOOTPRINT UNEARTHED IN ENGLAND

A picture of 'Trinity' is seen during sale of the skeleton of the Tyrannosaurus-Rex (T-Rex) by Koller auction house in Zurich, on April 18, 2023.

According to the April 2021 scientific journal Nature, only 32 skeletons of adult T. rex specimens have been found worldwide, the auction house reports, adding that the rare adult skeletons that have been unearthed are almost all now in institutional collections.

DISCOVERY OF 256 FOSSILIZED TITANOSAUR EGGS SHEDS NEW LIGHT ON DINOSAUR SPECIES

Biders are seen next to a picture of 'Trinity' is seen after the sale of the Tyrannosaurus-Rex (T-Rex) skeleton by Koller auction house in Zurich, on April 18, 2023.

The T. rex was one of the last dinosaur species to exist at the time of the abrupt extinction of this order in the Cretaceous.
A York County jury has acquitted two Rock Hill men charged with murder in the case where a person was fatally shot on Interstate 77 in 2022, according to court records and lawyers.

The jury found Robert Daquan Johnson, 27, and Montrece Shajaun Kennedy, 29, not guilty on all charges after a five-day trial at the Moss Justice Center in York, S.C. The jury returned its verdict late last week

Sixteenth Circuit Senior Assistant Solicitor Chris Epting, who prosecuted the case with Deputy Solicitor John Anthony, confirmed Johnson and Kennedy had been acquitted.

The jury found both men not guilty of the charges of murder, attempted murder, and two counts of possession of a weapon during a violent crime.

Keith Feaster, 25, of Chester, died in February 2022 when he was shot. He was a passenger in a truck traveling southbound on I-77, according to officials.

Johnson and Kennedy were arrested by York County Sheriffs deputies but denied involvement, according to their defense attorneys.

Defense lawyers praise jury verdict

Kennedy was represented at trial by Rock Hill lawyer Geoff Dunn.

Were very grateful to the jury, Dunn said in a statement to The Herald after the verdict. Mr. Kennedy is looking forward to being home with his family.

Johnson was represented by B.J Barrowclough and Ryan Newkirk of the 16th Circuit Public Defender office. After the jury verdict, Barrowclough said he and Newkirk appreciated the jurys attentiveness to the details of the case.

We were very happy with the jurys decision, Barrowclough said in a statement to The Herald. It was a long trial. There was a lot of evidence and testimony for the jury to sift through. But we felt like if they really paid attention to the details that they would see that some of the most significant evidence favored the defense. My co-counsel Ryan Newkirk and I both really appreciate their efforts.

Johnson remained in the York County jail Monday, after the acquittal, pending unrelated legal matters, according to Barrowclough and court and jail records.
Former Columbus Police Vice officer Andrew Mitchell is questioned by defense attorney Mark Collins during Mitchell's trial. Mitchell is describing his physical altercation with a woman he claims grabbed his hands.

Donna Dalton Castleberry, a 23-year-old mother of two who was battling addiction and working as a prostitute on Columbus' West Side in August of 2018, deserved respect and patience - not death, a prosecutor told a jury Tuesday in Franklin County Common Pleas Court.

"She didn't deserve to be gunned down, trapped in a crappy undercover police car by Andrew Mitchell," Assistant Franklin County Prosecutor Dan Cable said.

Mitchell, 59, a former Columbus police officer, is charged with murder and voluntary manslaughter in connection with the Aug. 23, 2018, shooting of Castleberry. However, because of the way Mitchell was indicted in 2019, the jury could only find him guilty of one of the two charges - should they decide a conviction is warranted.

Mitchell was working in plain clothes as a Columbus police vice officer and driving an unmarked Mitsubishi Galant when he encountered Castleberry in August 2018. After picking up Castleberry, Mitchell parked the car so the passenger side, where Castleberry was sitting, was tight against a brick wall of an apartment building. When Mitchell could not show Castleberry his badge, the pair struggled inside the vehicle and over the course of about a minute, Castleberry slashed Mitchell on one hand, and Mitchell shot six rounds, hitting Castleberry three times. She died a short time later at OhioHealth Grant Medical Center.

The jury in the case began deliberating shortly after 11 a.m. Tuesday after hearing closing arguments on Monday afternoon and Tuesday morning from both sides.

Apr 14, 2023; Columbus, Ohio, United States; Family members of Donna Dalton Castleberry become emotional while Former Columbus Police Vice officer Andrew Mitchell is questioned by Franklin County Prosecutor Sheryl Prichard during his trial. Mandatory Credit: Brooke LaValley/Columbus Dispatch

Mitchell is the first Columbus police officer to be tried for murder in connection to an on-duty shooting. He went to trial in April 2022 but the jury in that case was unable to reach a unanimous verdict.

Tuesday morning, Mark Collins, one of Mitchell's attorneys, tried to get the jury to focus on the things that the prosecution in the case didn't prove.

"Knives kill people. Choking kills people. Words don't," Collins said, referencing Mitchell's account of events that unfolded in the car.

Story continues

The argument Collins made to the jury was that Mitchell was justified in using deadly force because Castleberry had sliced him with a knife and attempted to choke him with her foot during a scuffle in the Galant's front seat.

"There's no requirement to de-escalate when you've been a victim of deadly force," Collins said.

Collins also said the charges of murder - which require the jury to find Mitchell caused Castleberry's death during a felonious assault - and voluntary manslaughter - which means the jury would find Mitchell acted in a sudden fit or passion or rage - contradict each other.

Assistant Prosecutor Sheryl Prichard gave a closing argument Monday afternoon by imploring the jury to review the audio and video recording of the shooting and determine if what is seen and heard matches Mitchell's version of events.

"He's saying she doesn't want to go to jail, but she's calling out for the police," Prichard said. "If you want help to come ... you're happy with what she said and you sit there and wait."

Prichard also indicated how the forensic evidence lines up and contradicts Mitchell saying he was in fear of his life during a minute-long struggle with Castleberry that ended with him firing six shots over about 14 seconds into the backseat of his unmarked Mitsubishi Galant. Mitchell fired six shots before his gun jammed.

Related coverage: New details revealed in unsealed warrants in federal case against former Columbus vice cop Andrew Mitchell

"The gun coincidentally jammed at the exact moment he decided to stop shooting," Prichard said, noting that the flight path of one of the bullets, as determined by forensic examination, showed Mitchell had his "hand over (the driver's seat) ... getting closer to Donna."

"There's no evidence she ever went at him [in the moments immediately before the shooting," Prichard said. "You cannot categorically shoot somebody because you may have been justified earlier."

Defense Attorney Mark Collins shows the plastic ID badge of Former Columbus Police Vice officer Andrew Mitchell while Michell is questioned during his trial on April 14, 2023.

Prichard ended her closing by telling the jury that Mitchell was not able to explain how he was justified in shooting Castleberry more than 45 seconds after she had cut him with a knife.

"He did not take into account the circumstances changed," Prichard said. "He shot until his gun wouldn't fire anymore. That's not justification."

On Tuesday morning, Cable provided a rebuttal closing to the jury, pointing out the things Mitchell doesn't remember about what happened inside the Galant.

"Donna Castleberry's last moments on Earth were not trying to cut Andrew Mitchell because she was scared of a warrant," Cable said. "There's nothing she could have done. He decided to shoot her from the very beginning."

Cable also disputed a claim by the defense's expert witness, former Akron police officer Kevin Davis, that Castleberry was a "violent female aggressor."

"Donna Castleberry had no power, no authority and was in a position none of us would want to see our mothers, sisters or daughters," he said. "Respect and patience is what she deserved."

Regardless of the verdict in the case, Mitchell will remain in police custody, awaiting federal trial on charges he forced women to have sexual conduct with him in exchange for their freedom and lying to federal investigators. A trial on those charges is currently scheduled for later in 2023.

bbruner@dispatch.com

@bethany_bruner

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Jury deliberating if former Columbus vice officer is guilty of murder
After she started receiving gender-affirming care around two years ago, Hazel Krebs said her life finally made sense.

Krebs began the process of medically transitioning at the University of Kansas Medical Center and legally changed her name in early 2022. Before making the decision to transition, she dealt with anxiety, depression and substance use disorders for years.

[Gender-affirming care] was life-saving for me, she said. It was one of the best things Ive ever done.

On Sunday, Krebs joined dozens of other protesters at Mill Creek Park to rally against an executive action by Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey that would drastically reduce access to gender-affirming care when it goes into effect on April 27.

The executive action would require 15 hour-long therapy sessions over 18 months before someone can receive gender-affirming care. Its considered one of the most strict anti-trans actions in the country, because it targets both adults and children.

Baileys office has said the restrictions are aimed at stopping gender-affirming care for minors, but the legislation makes no distinction between children and adults.

Transgender friends, family and communities gathered Sunday, April 16 at Mill Creek Park on the plaza to protest Attorney General Andrew Baileys new executive action so strict that it will essentially ban gender-affirming care for many adults and minors in Missouri.

Wrenching away life-saving care

Sheania Crowley, who organized Sundays rally, said she and other trans people and allies needed to take action as soon as possible because of how quickly the restrictions are set to take effect.

Crowley said while Bailey and other Republicans have said they are protecting minors by working to restrict gender-affirming care, the rates of suicide among transgender children and adults are likely to rise if they cant get care they need.

Suicide rates for transgender adults and children are already monstrously high, and this is going to do nothing but increase that, she said. This is wrenching away life-saving care that has saved the lives of thousands of our siblings. Its just evil.

Hazel Baumgartner hasnt started the process of medically transitioning.

They live in Missouri but have been considering leaving the state for the last year because of anti-trans measures. In the last few weeks, she increased those efforts, secured a place to live in Charlotte, North Carolina, and is raising funds to move by September.

Story continues

Its a big change, they said. Ive been in Missouri the past 13 years, and Im having to leave over this shit.

Another trans person at the rally, who asked not to be identified, said hes already experienced issues. Hes also worried that, because some of the restrictions specifically apply to people with depression and PTSD, the hormone replacement therapy hes received for years could be taken away.

But, he said, it was hormone replacement therapy that helped ease his depression so that he sees his therapist fewer times a month and doesnt need anti-depressants anymore.

Transgender friends, family and communities gathered Sunday, April 16 at Mill Creek Park on the plaza to protest Attorney General Andrew Baileys new executive action so strict that it will essentially ban gender-affirming care for many adults and minors in Missouri.

A lack of understanding

Lily DeSett lives in Kansas now but began the process of medical transitioning in Missouri in 2017 when she was 23. Before she started treatment, DeSett said she was depressed and had suicidal thoughts. Without gender-affirming care, she said she wouldnt be alive.

Lawmakers, she said, seem to think trans people make the decision to medically transition on a whim and have easy access to hormone treatments.

DeSetts process was long and controlled. Planned Parenthood walked DeSett through the risks of medical transitioning and started her on a low dose of medication. Each month, she got a blood test before doctors would agree to increase her dosage.

Theres a lack of understanding of the trans medical process, she said, so maybe before passing laws or executive decisions like this, maybe they should talk to trans people first and figure out what is going on with us first before stepping on us.

To help trans people, Crowley said allies need to use their time to contact their representatives, join protests and take further action immediately to make sure their concerns are known to lawmakers.

DeSett said she hopes if more people make their support for trans people known, lawmakers will have to listen.

Im hopeful, she said, that even if its not today or tomorrow that peace, common sense and humanity prevails.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks in Mexico City in January 2023. AP Photo/Andrew Harnik

A man confronted Canada's PM Justin Trudeau about abortion rights in a viral clip.

Trudeau tells the man he must "do a little more thinking, and a little more praying."

Trudeau has pledged to defend abortion rights, which have been rolled back in the US.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's exchange with a man opposed to abortion rights during a university visit has gone viral.

The clip was filmed and posted on Reddit by user @NoahFromCanada during a visit by Trudeau to the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg last week.

In the clip, a young man tells Trudeau he's a supporter of the right-wing Canadian People's Party because "they're mostly Christian and I'm against the vaccine mandate", and tells Trudeau he also opposes abortion rights.

"Do you think women should have the right to choose what happens to their own bodies?" Trudeau asks him.

"Personally, no," the man responded before Trudeau asks "do you think you should be able to choose what happens to a woman's body?"

"I think if they're sleeping around they shouldn't be allowed to abort the baby, personally," he responds, prompting Trudeau to respond incredulously "wow. Wow."

The two continue the debate before Trudeau asks: "So, a woman who is raped should be able to get an abortion?"

"That's where it gets complicated," the man responds.

"No, it doesn't get complicated. It's a yes or no," Trudeau says. "It's an all-too-common example. Women get raped all the time and it's something we have to take seriously  Should a woman who was raped be able to get an abortion?"

"Uh, I'm split on it, 50-50," the man responds, saying he can't come to a definitive answer.

"Well, it sounds like you need to do a little more thinking  and a little more praying," Trudeau says, and pats the man on the shoulder before heading off.

Trudeau and the governing Liberal Party have pledged to defend abortion rights in Canada, even as they are rolled back across the border in the US following last year's landmark ruling by the Supreme Court to overturn Roe v. Wade.

In the wake of the ruling, the Canadian government pledged $2.5 million to expand access to abortion services, CBC reported.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Uganda holds "Chinese Bridge" competitions for college, secondary students

Xinhua) 09:30, April 18, 2023

Chinese Ambassador to Uganda Zhang Lizhong (R) presents prizes to Nsubuga Vianney (C) and Wamala Sadik, winners of the Ugandan finals of the "Chinese Bridge" competitions, at Kawempe Muslim Secondary School, Kampala, Uganda, April 16, 2023. (Photo by Nicholas Kajoba/Xinhua)

KAMPALA, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Uganda on Sunday held the "Chinese Bridge" competitions aimed at testing college and secondary students' proficiency in Mandarin in Kampala, the capital of Uganda.

The event was held under the theme "One World, One Family" for both categories at Kawempe Muslim Secondary School. A total of 12 finalists from both categories showcased their Chinese language skills and understanding of Chinese culture through speeches, quizzes, and cultural performances.

Both Vianney Nsubuga of Luyanzi Confucius Class, who won the competition for the college category, and Sadik Wamala, who won in the secondary category, will represent Uganda in the global competitions.

Nsubuga was full of excitement as he hugged his fellow contestants after being announced as the winner. "I am so excited about this win. I didn't expect it because it was a tough journey to beat all these contestants. But thank God I have made it, and I will be traveling to China and learn more about Chinese culture," Nsubuga said.

Wamala said he will keep revising and make it a point to learn more about the Chinese language and culture.

Chinese Ambassador to Uganda Zhang Lizhong said the competitions have promoted cultural exchanges between the two countries, and become a platform for students to make friends.

"The Chinese language has become not only a golden key to understanding China, but also a golden bridge to strengthen our mutual support, solidarity, and bilateral cooperation in various fields, and continuously deepen the China-Uganda comprehensive cooperative partnership," he said.

Grace Baguma, director of Uganda's National Curriculum Development Center, said the partnership between Uganda and China has enabled many Ugandans to achieve more in terms of job creation and empowerment.

Baguma said last year over 98 percent of students who sat the ordinary level secondary school examinations for the Chinese language passed very well, attributing it to support from the government and Chinese embassy. She said more secondary school teachers have started learning and taking courses in the Chinese language in order to get jobs in schools and companies that have a niche in Chinese.

A contestant performs during the Ugandan finals of the "Chinese Bridge" competitions at Kawempe Muslim Secondary School, Kampala, Uganda, April 16, 2023. (Photo by Nicholas Kajoba/Xinhua)

A contestant performs guzheng, a Chinese zither, during the Ugandan finals of the "Chinese Bridge" competitions at Kawempe Muslim Secondary School, Kampala, Uganda, April 16, 2023. (Photo by Nicholas Kajoba/Xinhua)

A contestant dances during the Ugandan finals of the "Chinese Bridge" competitions at Kawempe Muslim Secondary School in Kampala, Uganda, April 16, 2023. (Photo by Nicholas Kajoba/Xinhua)

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A male juvenile is dead in an overnight shooting in Cincinnati, according to the Hamilton County Coroners Office.

The coroners office and Cincinnati Police Homicide Unit are both responding early Tuesday.

Multiple officers responded to the shooting reported on Strand Lane in Winton Hills around 1:30 a.m.

The juvenile victim was taken to the Univesity of Cincinnati Medical Center, where he succumbed to his injuries, the coroners office confirms.

Enquirer media partner Fox19 provided this report

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Juvenile shot and killed early Tuesday
(Reuters) -An 84-year-old white man charged in the shooting and wounding of a Black teenager who mistakenly walked up to the man's house in Kansas City surrendered to police, the Clay County Sheriff's Office said on Tuesday, but was freed on bond within a few hours.

Andrew Lester had been charged a day earlier with first-degree assault, which could bring a sentence of life in prison, for shooting Ralph Yarl, 16, on the doorstep of his suburban home around 10 p.m. last Thursday.

Yarl had walked up to Lester's house to pick up his younger siblings, who were at a nearby house with a similar address.

Lester was also charged with armed criminal action, punishable by up to 15 years in prison.

"Andrew Lester, charged in the shooting of Ralph Yarl, has surrendered at our Detention Center. He is in custody," the Clay County Sheriff said earlier on Twitter.

Bond for Lester was set at $200,000, which he posted within a few hours of turning himself in to authorities, the Clay County Sheriff's office said on social media late Tuesday afternoon.

"I can tell you there was a racial component to the case," Thompson said, without elaborating during a news conference to announce the charges.

Prosecutors have not filed hate crime charges, which carry lesser penalties in Missouri than the two counts Lester faces, Thompson added.

Lester fired two shots through a glass door with a .32-caliber revolver, the prosecutor said. Yarl, who was struck in the head and an arm, did not cross the threshold, Thompson said, adding it did not appear any words were exchanged in the encounter.

But Yarl told police in an interview at the hospital where he was treated that the man told him, "Don't come around here," local media reported, citing court documents.

The teen was recovering at home on Monday, his family said.

Lester was initially taken into custody, placed on a 24-hour investigative hold, then released pending an interview with Yarl and the collection of forensic evidence, Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves said.

Story continues

His swift release helped fuel two days of protests. Demonstrators at the suspect's single-story house on a tree-lined street on Monday shouted "Black lives are under attack" and "Stand up, fight back," online videos showed.

Missouri has a "stand your ground" law that allows homeowners to use physical force to defend themselves against suspected intruders.

The law says a person cannot use deadly force unless they reasonably believe it is necessary to protect themselves or another person against death or serious physical injury, or a possible felony.

Lee Merritt, a lawyer for Yarl's family, said on Tuesday the "stand your ground" law would only protect a homeowner if the person had been threatened.

"The law doesn't protect him under these circumstances," Merritt said in a CNN interview.

"There's no way you can see fear when you look at that kid," his aunt Faith Spoonmore said in the same interview. "In this country, from decades - hundreds of years - of conditioning, we've decided that Black and criminal is almost synonymous."

(Reporting by Brendan O'Brien in Chicago; Additional reporting by Brad Brooks in Lubbock, Texas; Editing by Deepa Babington and Bill Berkrot)
Ralph Yarl, 16, was supposed to pick up his two younger brothers last week when he approached the wrong house. Andrew Lester came to the door and shot Yarl in the head  then shot him again.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP)  An 85-year-old white man who shot a Black teen at his front door in Kansas City, Missouri, last week has been charged with armed assault, and the Clay County prosecutor said Monday there was a racial component to the case.

A community is demanding justice for Ralph Yarl (above), a 16-year-old youth who was reportedly shot after he rang the wrong doorbell in North Kansas City. (Photo: Screenshot/YouTube.com/Fox 4 News Kansas City)

Prosecuting Attorney Zachary Thompson said at a news conference that Andrew Lester shot 16-year-old Ralph Yarl, who is recovering at home after being released from the hospital on Sunday.

When asked if anything was said between Lester and Yarl that made Thompson believe the shooting was racially motivated, Thompson said nothing like that is indicated in charging documents.

We understand how frustrating this has been but I can assure the criminal justice system is working and will continue to work, Thompson said at a news conference.

Yarl was supposed to pick up his two younger brothers last week when he approached the wrong house. Lester came to the door and shot Yarl in the head  then shot him again. No words were exchanged before the shooting, the probable cause statement said.

Lester told police that he lives alone and had just gone to bed when he heard his doorbell, according to a probable cause statement. He said he picked up his gun and went to the door, where he saw a Black male pulling on the exterior storm door handle and thought someone was breaking in.

Community leaders and an attorney for Yarls family had earlier demanded justice for the Black teen. Thompson said an arrest warrant was issued but Lester was not yet in custody.

The shooting outraged many in Kansas City and across the country. Rev. Vernon Howard, president of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference of Greater Kansas City, said in a statement Monday that the homeowner should immediately be arrested for what he called a heinous and hate-filled crime.

Story continues

The Missouri Senate held a moment of silence for Yarl on Monday. We pray for justice, Democratic Sen. Lauren Arthur said.

The shooting happened Thursday night in a middle-class neighborhood in north Kansas City. Yarl was sent to pick up his twin younger brothers. He didnt have a phone with him and went to the wrong block, his aunt, Faith Spoonmore, wrote on a GoFundMe page set up to help pay medical bills. By Monday afternoon, $1.4 million had been raised.

Graves said that Yarls parents asked him to pick up his brothers at a home on 115th Terrace, but he mistakenly went to 115th Street, the Kansas City Star reported.

Spoonmore wrote that Yarl pulled into the driveway and rang the doorbell.

The man in the home opened the door, looked my nephew in the eye, and shot him in the head, Spoonmore wrote. When Yarl fell to the ground, the man shot him again.

Spoonmore wrote that Yarl approached three different homes before someone finally agreed to help him after he was told to lie on the ground with his hands up. The AP could not independently confirm this account.

Yarl is a bass clarinetist who earned Missouri All-State Band honorable mention and who plays several instruments in the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra of Kansas City, Spoonmore wrote. A statement from the North Kansas City School District described Yarl as an excellent student and talented musician.

Yarl was released from the hospital Sunday and is recovering at home, his father, Paul Yarl, told the Kansas City Star. Spoonmore said Yarl is doing well physically but has a lot of trauma to overcome emotionally.

Police have not identified the shooter or his race, though civil rights attorney Ben Crump said the family provided information indicating he was white. He did not elaborate.

By Monday afternoon, the home where the shooting happened had been vandalized. Black spray paint on the side of the house showed a heart with 16 in the middle. Eggs splattered the front windows and the door.

The shooting has caught the attention of national figures.

Vice President Kamala Harris wrote on Twitter that she and her husband were praying for Yarl.

Lets be clear: No child should ever live in fear of being shot for ringing the wrong doorbell, Harris tweeted.

Bernice King, daughter of Martin Luther King Jr., wrote on Twitter that the man who did this should be charged AND we need to work for the legislative and heart change to prevent these tragedies.

Graves said investigators will consider whether the suspect was protected by Stand Your Ground laws, which allow for the use of deadly force in self-defense. Missouri is among around 30 states with such laws.

These laws breed a society of violence and fear while providing cover for those who harm, maim and kill others, state Rep. Marlene Terry, a St. Louis Democrat who chairs the Missouri Legislative Black Caucus, said in a statement.

A message seeking comment from Republican Gov. Mike Parson, a staunch gun rights supporter, wasnt immediately returned.

Crump, who has represented families in several high-profile cases of Black people being shot, including those of Trayvon Martin, Michael Brown, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and George Floyd, called it asinine that charges have to wait for an interview with Yarl.

We all believe that if the roles were reversed and this was a Black citizen who shot a 16-year-old for merely ringing his doorbell, they would have arrested him, and he wouldnt have slept in his bed that night, Crump said.

Two days after Yarl was shot, a 20-year-old woman was killed by a homeowner in Upstate New York Saturday after the car she was in drove to the wrong address. Washington County Sheriff Jeffrey Murphy said Kaylin Gillis was in a car with three others looking for a friends house.

As the car was turning around, Kevin Monahan came out and fired two shots, one of which struck Gillis. Monahan was charged with second-degree murder.

TheGrio is FREE on your TV via Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku, and Android TV. Please download theGrio mobile apps today!

The post Kansas City man charged in shooting of Black teen at his front door appeared first on TheGrio.
Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas said 16-year-old Ralph Yarl was shot by an 84-year-old white man because he was existing while Black.

I share the outrage and the concern of many and asking why, Lucas told Sara Sidner on CNNs News Central on Tuesday morning.

This boy was shot because he was existing while Black, and he knocked on the door of someone who clearly, clearly fears Black people  Black boys, Black children, and I think that is clear as day, Lucas added. And so I hope that its not mistaken or forgotten, the reason why many Black people and Black parents  myself included  are concerned is because, if one day its ringing on the doorbell that can get you shot, then what else is next?

On April 13, Yarl went out to pick up his younger brothers from a friends house when he accidentally went to the home of 84-year-old Andrew Lester.

In a probable cause statement, Lester said he saw a black male approximately 6 feet tall pulling on the exterior storm door handle. He fired a .32 caliber revolver, striking Yarl in the head. As he lay on the ground, Yarl told officers, Lester fired again and struck him in the arm.

Yarl eventually managed to run away and find help; an ambulance was called and Yarl was taken to a nearby hospital in critical condition while Lester was taken into custody before being released.

Though Missouri has a stand your ground law, which allows citizens to respond to threats or force without fear of criminal prosecution, Yarls family said the teenager was no threat to Lester.

His aunt Faith Spoonmore said her nephew is barely 170 pounds and under 6 feet tall. Yarl told officers he did not touch Lesters door.

Clay County Prosecuting Attorney Zachary Thompson said there appears to be a racial component to the case.

Lucas on Tuesday said he wont assign racial bias until further investigation, but to pretend that race is not a part of this whole situation would be to have your head in the sand.

Story continues

Going up to a door is normal existence, Lucas added, but being shot for doing so is horrifying.

Somebody came to a door and shot through a door not once, but twice, Lucas said. Thats what is horrifying. Thats why I think Im glad to see this first step toward justice and why we all need to investigate  how we handle this and how we can do better in the future.

Lester now faces two felony charges for assault in the first degree and armed criminal action.

Yarl was released from the hospital on Monday and is recovering at home, but his family said he is traumatized by what occurred.

Theres a major part of Ralph that died on Thursday, said Spoonmore on CNN This Morning.

What Ralph went through, he lost a part of himself that day, she added. A lot has changed since that happened. The way hes going to walk through this world is going to be totally different because of what happened.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The night prosecutors say Black Kansas City teen Ralph Yarl was shot by white homeowner Andrew Lester, 84, Jodi was watching TV. Then, she heard banging at her front door, her handle rattling and a voice crying out, I need help.

Jodi  who requested her last name not be used  was overcome with shock and fear, but she jumped up and dialed 911.

Panicking, she asked the dispatcher what she should do but said she was told not to open the door. There is an active shooter in the area, Jodi said she was told.

But when she saw Yarl, 16, collapse at the end of her driveway and other neighbors rush over with flashlights, she and her son joined the first-aid efforts. There were about four neighbors who circled around Yarl, she said. One, living on the street behind the shooting, leapt over his fence to assist the injured teen, she said.

When Jodi asked Yarl what happened, he told her he was supposed to pick up his younger brothers from a friends house when he came under fire.

A man came to the door with a gun and shot me in the head, she recalled him telling her.

She stood in her driveway Tuesday afternoon and brushed tears off her face as she remembered what took place that evening. Everything would be OK, she told him, even though she wasnt sure it would be.

Jodi, a health care professional, sent her son inside to grab towels and then placed one under Yarls head to slow the bleeding.

He was very alert, she said. Hes such a brave young man.

The neighbors talked with Yarl about his activities at Staley High School  track and band  before paramedics came to help.

At school, Ralph Yarl is involved in jazz and competition band, among other activities.

Ive never seen so many first-responders come so fast, she said.

According to previous statements from Kansas City police, Yarl was trying to pick up his siblings Thursday evening from a house on the 1100 block of Northeast 115th Terrace in the Northland, but he went to a home on Northeast 115th Street instead.

Clay County prosecutors say he was shot within a few seconds of being seen by Lester, who fired twice and told him, Dont come around here.

Story continues

Family said the second time Lester shot Yarl was after the teen had already fallen to the ground.

Officers found Lester standing behind a shattered glass door, charging documents indicate.

He now faces charges for first-degree assault and armed criminal action. Lester surrendered to authorities Tuesday, the day after he was charged. He posted his $200,000 bond not long after.

You dont shoot twice

Clay County prosecutor Zachary Thompson told media at a press conference Monday that there was a racial component to the case.

The shooting has been the focus of activist groups and protests, one on the street where Yarl was shot.

Jodi watched a crowd march Sunday, saying it was peaceful and it needed to be done.

At the protest, Meara Mitchell, a teacher of Yarls for several years, called the teen a stellar human being.

He is the utmost example of how you want a young man to carry himself in this world, she said.

Jodi hopes the justice system will hold the shooter accountable. She never spoke to Lester, who lives a few houses down.

If its a mistake, you dont shoot twice, she said.

Celebrities and political leaders, too, have shared their condolences with Yarls family. A GoFundMe started by his aunt has already amassed $3 million as of Tuesday afternoon. On Monday, Yarl was able to return home from the hospital.

He continues to improve. Hes responsive and hes making good progress, his father said after his release.

Several of Lesters neighbors told The Star Tuesday that the neighborhood is fairly quiet. Some said they had seen Lester around a few times but never talked to him  he mostly kept to himself.

Vickie Mahterian, 76, who lives on the street behind Lesters home, said she and other neighbors were horrified by the shooting.

He was an individual who does not represent us, she said.

Kansas City teen Ralph Yarl shot at a Northland home Thursday evening, police say.

Lesters home was the focal point of the street Tuesday afternoon, with news vans parked nearby to video its spray-painted siding and garage door windows covered with newspapers from the inside.

Those who helped Yarl are rejoicing that the teen seems to be on the mend.

Miracles do happen, Jodi said.

He has a long road ahead. However, we are very thankful that he is still here with us, a family member wrote in an update on the GoFundMe page. Ive been taking the time to read the emails and comments to Ralph. It warms our hearts to see him smile at all the kind words.
Jed Royal doesnt think the China threat is overhyped.

A career civil servant who has worked in various roles at the Pentagon for the last two decades, Royal, 44, took over as the principal deputy assistant secretary of Defense for Indo-Pacific Security Affairs (IPSA) in September.

The job oversees IPSAs extensive portfolio  including China, Taiwan and South and East Asia, all the way to Mongolia in the north and Afghanistan and Pakistan in Central Asia  working to synchronize the agencys activities with the administrations goals.

The task is no small feat, as the Biden administration late last year named China as the United Statess largest long-term threat, outweighing even Russia.

The strategy, released in October, pointed to Beijing as the top pacing challenge for the Defense Department, calling for a major effort to build up the U.S. military with an eye on deterring China in the next several decades.

The document pointedly warns that China is the most consequential strategic competitor for the coming decades, saying Beijing seeks to threaten Taiwan, erode American alliances in the region and potentially destabilize the U.S. homeland through surveillance and cyberattack capabilities.

Were tracking [the Peoples Republic of China] intention and military activity, military behavior, and our concern about the way that the PRC and the [Peoples Liberation Army] operate in the region is increasingly dangerous, Royal told The Hill in a recent interview. We dont think that the way that we have put forward the depiction of the PRC pacing challenge is overblown in any regard.

Beijings coercive behavior has been in the news frequently since the start of the year, first with its highly scrutinized aerial surveillance program, brought to light after a spy balloon was spotted over the U.S. in late January and early February.

That was followed by Chinese war drills earlier this month around Taiwan after the independent islands leader, Tsai Ing-wen, met with Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) and several other U.S. lawmakers while in the United States, a visit that angered Beijing.

Story continues

The military exercises mirrored those after then-Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) visited Taiwan in August, after which China for nearly a week dispatched warships and military aircraft around the island and fired ballistic missiles into nearby waters and air in a show of force not seen before.

Weve been closely monitoring what theyre doing. We do see an alarming uptick in the way they operate in and around the Taiwan Strait, including with incursions that are clearly meant to send a signal that the PRC wants to make sure that Taiwan knows its happening, Royal said.

He would not comment on whether the Chinese drills this month were on par with those around Pelosis visit, but he said in both cases Beijing is trying to use the situation to establish some type of new normal.

This is a problem for instability in the region and across the strait, Royal said. I would say that we should expect probably more of this kind of thing in the future if things continue on this trend, and its very concerning to us.

CIA Director William Burns said earlier this year that U.S. intelligence has shown that Chinese President Xi Jinping has ordered Beijings military to be ready by 2027 to invade Taiwan, which it views as sovereign territory.

President Biden has said that the United States would defend Taiwan if China were to attempt an invasion, though its not clear if that includes the use of American troops or only the influx of U.S. weapons and equipment, as Washington has done for Ukraine in its war with Russia.

A major concern floated, however, is whether the U.S. military will have enough of the right weapons in its stockpiles for Taiwan after billions of dollars worth have been pledged to Kyiv.

But Royal  who prior to his current role served as the deputy director of the Defense Security Cooperation Agency, the arm overseeing foreign military sales  brushed aside such worries.

Every decision that we have made to draw down from U.S. military stock and provide to Ukraine has been with full knowledge and awareness of what is necessary to be able to deter, and if necessary, fight and win in the Indo-Pacific region, he said.

Were completely confident that we can execute our operational plans as necessary in the event of conflict, he added.

Royal also addressed a $19 billion backlog of U.S. weapons approved for Taiwan, a figure often touted by GOP lawmakers.

The sales, which include Harpoon over-the-horizon long-range anti-ship missiles and F-16 fighter jets, stem from a 2019 deal delayed due to COVID-19-related supply chain issues and high weapons demands amid the Ukraine-Russia war.

I think the word backlog sort of invokes a sense that everything is stagnant and not moving forward, and I can assure you thats not the case, Royal said. The department is moving very quickly to try and ensure that the defense industrial base can produce  as efficient as possible to move those weapons towards Taiwan. And were in the process of doing so.

He pointed to $54 billion in implemented foreign military sales to Taiwan, including $27 billion in new contracts in 2017, indicating the sheer amount of weapons and equipment promised to the island.

He said the scrutiny helps the U.S. defense industrial base receive the level of attention that it needs, some of which will come through funding in the current fiscal 2023 and in the upcoming fiscal 2024 defense budget.

Were investing a lot to try and ensure that the defense industrial base is responsive in the United States. Some of that will have a bit of a lag in terms of payoff. Thats no surprise, Royal said.

In the meantime, the Pentagon has kept a close eye on its balance of an outward projection of strength in the face of a bellicose China. The tightrope walk is crucial to prevent any miscalculation between the two superpowers.

On the question of miscalculation, I think thats an important thing for us to consider, Royal said. We will operate responsibly and safely wherever international law allows. Weve made that sort of a key tenant of the way that weve conducted ourselves and fully compliant with what we believe to be the rules-based international order  we dont see the same behavior on the PRC side.

The mismatch lends to concerns that China could be allowing for the additional opportunity for a miscalculation or something along those lines due to its risky behavior and the way that it operates, he added.

Royal stressed the need for communication in such scenarios, with Washington keeping to a long-standing policy and practice of reaching out to China with an open channel for communication.

The United States has done this in previous naval transits through Chinese contested waters in the South China Sea ahead of war drills and during the course of the high-altitude spy balloon, which was eventually shot down over the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of South Carolina.

We believe that open lines of communication are really important in situations just like this to be able to manage responsibly manage the international environment and avoid the chance of miscalculation, he said. But unfortunately, were not getting the kind of responsiveness from Beijing that we would like.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Lights of rememberance

Credit - Getty Images

When my kids were young, they used to play what they called the Holocaust Game. One of them would give a signal, and together, they would clamber as fast as they could into a single bed, piled with stuffed animals. Theyd pull the covers over their heads as they waited for an imaginary thump on the door. You have to be quiet, theyd whisper to each other. Theyre coming!

When I first found out my children were doing this, I felt sick with guilt and worry. As someone with many family members lost in the Holocaustcousins, great aunts and uncles with whom I had been fascinated since childhoodI had talked about the genocide and resulting war often in our house. Wed discussed parallels to the atrocities over family dinners. Had I traumatized my children with my own preoccupation of the Holocaust? Were they irrevocably damaged? Had I done them a disservice by talking about their relatives who refused to leave their comfortable lives in Europe and were, therefore, forced into crowded ghettos, starved, and tortured before they were stripped naked and shot, left for dead in pits? Were they just playing or were they actually afraid that at any minute a neighbor might turn them into the SS? Had I fulfilled or overshot my responsibility as a Jewish mother?

All parents want to protect their children. We teach them to look both ways before crossing the street, to be wary of strangers, to keep their distance from a burning flame.

The talk that Jewish parents have with our children is different, but also involves pulling back a curtain with the risk of disillusionment. It is an ancient talk that we are commanded to engage in by our religious tenets. Our holidays revolve largely around these lessons about identity as well. We regale our children during Passover when we celebrate our ancestors escape from slavery, at Hanukkah when we replay the story of their victory over their Greek oppressors, and at Purim when we acknowledge their narrow escape from annihilation at the hands of Haman.

Story continues

Read More: Scholars Are Learning More About What the Catholic Church Didand Didnt Doto Save Jews During the Holocaust

Our Jewish communal memory is long, but, unfortunately, we need not look to our ancient past to feel the effects of hatred. It was only 80 years ago that our families were nearly obliterated. That memory is still fresh. So, when white supremacists storm the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, or march in Charlottesville shouting Jews will not replace us!, or shoot up the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, or when extremists equate the Star of David with the swastika, we recognize the risk. We are constantly aware of our vulnerability, of the persistent rancor and vitriol spewed against us, of the way others perceive us as different.

The hard truth, which no parent wants to tell a child, is that the world is not always a beautiful place. Our history tells us that horror exists, democracies can fall, economies can fail, and violence can erupt on a scale that defies imagination. Accepting that means accepting that, sometimes, we will be afraid.

Recently, prompted by the fact that I was working on a book about our family history, I thought about my children and their Holocaust play again. This time, I discussed the dilemma with my now adult offspring.

When I asked my children what they remembered about the role of Holocaust remembrance in our household, they said theyd recognized my preoccupation without a doubt. They often rolled their eyes when I made references to it when they were teens, as if it was any other refrain. But, in retrospect, they didnt think my harping made them overly fearful or paranoid. Rather, they said they felt prepared by itand not just for dangers faced by Jews. My discussions about our history had taught them to recognize signs of hostility toward any minority group. It made them notice how people can be too complacent to face the dangers happening in front of them. My children learned to use the example of the Holocaust as a tool for empathy.

These reactions may say more about the admirable character of my children than they do about my parenting skills. But they do also make me think that a little paranoia or fear may not be such a bad thing. That in playing their game, my children were simply processing the reality of the world we live in. The risk, however, is that fear with no outlet can be paralyzing. This is why, in addition to teaching my children to be aware, Ive also made a point of teaching them to act when they see injustice.

I would be remiss as a parent if I didnt teach my children these truths, just as I would be remiss if I didnt teach them about the richness of our cultural heritage, our contributions to civilization, the emphasis on scholarship and study, the depth and splendor of the lives their ancestors led while they still had the freedom to do so, and the way this richness sustained them in their darkest hours. I would be remiss because I would, then, not have taught them what it means to be Jewish. I would not have taught them what it means to persevere.

We live in a world of extraordinary challengesto the climate, to equity, to civil rights, to health, to basic notions of truth and decency, to democracy itself. None of usof any backgroundcan afford to bury our heads in the sand. If theres one thing I hope my children have absorbed, its that the comforts and privileges theyve grown up with can be taken away in a moment. People are facing these challenges all over the world every day, and we must be vigilant and willing to fight back against oppressors. Giving the next generations the sense that they have agency, that they can act upon the world instead of accepting what is subpar, can lift them from what could otherwise cause a sense of despair. Telling the truth and sharing our stories can help them realize a better future.

Adapted from Unearthed:A Lost Actress, a Forbidden Book, and a Search for Life in the Shadow of the Holocaust by Meryl Frank. Copyright  2023. Available from Hachette Books, an imprint of Hachette Book Group, Inc.
FIRST ON FOX: Kim and Khloe Kardashian walked into a California prison Monday morning with a different goal in mind  guiding a group of young influencers through the American criminal justice system.

"Its always an honor to be able to visit the men and women living behind our prison walls," Kim, a longtime criminal justice reform advocate, said Monday. The "Kardashians" star had spent several hours at the California State Prison of Los Angeles County in Lancaster with Michael Rubin and members of the REFORM Alliance  a group that aims to help ex-cons successfully return to society through probation and parole reform  and a number of young social media stars.

"Hearing the stories of people trapped in the prison system is what drives my commitment to advocate for reform and find ways to leverage my platform to help change lives and laws," she said of the visit, which began around 9:30 a.m.

In a proverbial generational shift, the social media and reality TV superstar said the goal of the trip was to introduce a new group of Gen-Z influencers to key issues of criminal justice and proposals for reform.

KIM KARDASHIAN DETAILS HER NEW DOC, SAYS SHE'S NOT WORRIED ABOUT JUSTICE REFORM CRITICS

Kim Kardashian, Michael Rubin and REFORM Alliances Future Shapers Advisory Council visit the California State Prison of Los Angeles County in Lancaster.

Kim Kardashian, Michael Rubin and REFORM Alliances Future Shapers.

They are called the Future Shapers Advisory Council, which was established in February with the REFORM Alliance, and includes Hannah Jackson, Rondo Bonilla, sisters Charli DAmelio and Dixie DAmelio, Sophia Kianni, C.J. Stroud, Zander Moricz, Jack Wright, Bryce Young, Jax Ajueny and Aidan Kohn-Murphy.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

In 2018, Kardashian famously lobbied then-President Donald Trump for the release of Alice Johnson, who served 21 years in prison for a nonviolent offense.

The social media and reality TV superstar said the goal of the trip was to introduce a new group of Gen-Z influencers to key issues of criminal justice and proposals for reform.

Longtime criminal justice reform advocates Kim Kardashian bringing new generation to her cause.

"We are building up the next generation of leaders and influencers who will join us in this fight," the SKIMS mogul said.

The prison's inmate roster has previously included Joseph Son, the former "Austin Powers" actor who killed a cellmate while serving time for another crime, and the prolific serial murderer Samuel Little.

Story continues

KIM KARDASHIAN ARRIVES AT WHITE HOUSE, THANKS TRUMP FOR COMMUTING SENTENCES OF 'THREE REALLY DESERVING WOMEN'

Kardashian's group heard the stories of a series of incarcerated men, discussed potential solutions for public safety and rehabilitation, and visited with members of the prison's PAWS For Life program, according to the REFORM Alliance.

A prison spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

KIM KARDASHIAN REFLECTS ON ALICE JOHNSON CASE, HOW SHE WAS TOLD GOING TO THE WHITE HOUSE WOULD RUIN CAREER

Kim and Khloe Kardashian are pictured inside the state prison in Lancaster, California, on Monday, April 17, 2023.

Others in attendance included California state Rep. Matt Haney, D-San Francisco, rapper Lil Baby, REFORM officials Jessica Jackson and Law Erin Haney, and Heidi and Marc DAmelio

Kim Kardashian is invited to speak by U.S. President Donald Trump during an event celebrating the second chance hiring reentry program for former inmates at the White House in Washington, June 13, 2019.

Kardashian was an outspoken supporter of the First Step Act, a bipartisan criminal justice reform bill that Trump signed in 2018.

WHAT IS THE FIRST STEP ACT? 5 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE REFORM LAW

A group of Gen-Z influencers led by Kim Kardashian meets with inmates at the California state prison in Lancaster.

REFORM Alliance co-chair Micahel Rubin, center, flanked by members of the Future Shapers Advisory Council.

She has also hosted a podcast on the subject, "Kim Kardashian's The System," and has made visits to jails and prisons around the country.

For years, she's visited inmates around the country, including former Oklahoma death row resident Julius Jones in prison roughly a year before Gov. Kevin Stitt granted him clemency in 2021, commuting his sentence to life without parole.

The group met with members of the prison's PAWS For Life program as part of the tour.

And in 2020, she partnered with Oxygen for a two-hour documentary titled "Kim Kardashian West: The Justice Project," in which she revealed she hoped to become a lawyer.

After leaving the state prison in Lancaster, the group stopped for lunch at La Papillon, a steakhouse and seafood restaurant.

Kim Kardashian speaks to the Future Shapers Advisory Council and members of the REFORM Alliance at La Papillon, a steakhouse and seafood restaurant in Lancaster, California.

Kim Kardashian, center, poses with several of the inmates her group met with in a Lancaster, California, prison Monday.

In 2020, Kardashian addressed people who aren't familiar with her prison reform work, thinking it is a publicity stunt.

"I would say, first of all, [I'm] spending so much time away from my family and children," she told Fox News Digital at the time. "I'm going to law school, which is taking 18 hours a week from my babies to study. I think there are more cost-effective and time-effective publicity stunts that I can do. I always laugh at that one. Why would someone go to law school for a publicity stunt? Thats torture."

"What I really want is for these cases, these stories of injustices, to get attention," she continued. "I think as long as these cases are getting attention, that just makes me really happy. I just hope that it continues like that, no matter what it's faced with."

"I think you just have to tune out the noise and stay focused on people and these issues," she added.

"They're the ones that deserve the attention, not the critics."
Foretold episode 2

Episode 2: "A Certain Kind of Education." We go back to where it all began: Morro Bay. Paulina shows Faith her hometown, where she recounts a childhood in a tightknit family, vibrant parties and an education cut short.

Read the episode transcript.



See all episodes and extras.

Roma wheel in red

Last week, I informally polled the L.A. Times newsroom. Very informally:

Please emoji  if you VIVIDLY remember your first day of kindergarten.

Please emoji  if you remember the feeling of it, or the emotion of it, but don't really remember details.

Please emoji  if you don't remember it at all.

Of the 80 people who responded, eight said they vividly remembered their first day of kindergarten, 22 said they remembered the feeling of it, and 50 people said they had no memory of that day whatsoever.

When Paulina Stevens started kindergarten at Del Mar Elementary in Morro Bay, Calif., it was the first time she spent any significant time away from her family. (Faith E. Pinho / Los Angeles Times)

Surprisingly, for such a landmark day in our early lives, the memory of it is just about as hazily familiar as the rest of our early childhood memories. I remember the buzz of energy as parents dropped off their children and the echo of little footsteps in a concrete hallway but not much else.

For some kids, the first day of kindergarten is their first exposure to an entirely new environment outside of the cocoon of familiar home life. Its an overwhelming experience for any child, but for Paulina Stevens, who had very little interaction with anyone outside her family, it was especially traumatic.

The first day, I was just crying the whole entire day, I remember, until the very last moment that I got picked up from school.

Paulina Stevens in Foretold

Many kids cry during the first day of school  some just in the morning, some all day. But Paulina wasnt just crying because of the shock of this new world. She was also carrying a secret.

The only thing before any school year was like, Don't tell anyone you're a Gypsy.

Paulina Stevens in Foretold

And so Paulina experienced a unique beginning to her education. As a bicultural kid myself, I can only imagine what it was like to have a home life so vastly different from what is projected at school, yet not be able to express the confusion that inevitably results from straddling two opposites. Paulinas home life as a child was loud and carefree, filled with family and parties. At school, Paulina was expected to line up, raise her hand, and ask permission before going to the bathroom.

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And so, perhaps, this is why Paulina remembers her few years of school with mixed feelings.

Paulina Stevens, right, reunites with her first-grade teacher, Alicia Cameli, at Del Mar Elementary in Morro Bay, Calif. (Faith E. Pinho / Los Angeles Times)

On the one hand, she was learning so much and absorbing this new world with curiosity. One teacher remembered her as a creative student. She had dreams to become a veterinarian. But on the other hand, she was hiding herself, never able to fully share and bond with others. She knew that eventually she would be pulled out of school, so what was the point? Her curiosities would remain unfulfilled and her friendships surface level. After sixth grade, she stopped attending school altogether.

This isnt unusual among traditional Romani Americans. Many pull their children out of formal public education in order to protect them from the encroaching influence of the gadje  outsiders.

As we began to learn in Foretold Episode 1, the distrust of gadje, or anyone who is not Romani, has built over centuries. In an effort to protect their communities and preserve their culture, Romani parents instilled in their children an aversion to gadje. This week we learn about the concept of marime, a spiritual uncleanliness.

You risk becoming polluted by going into the non-Romani world. We think that not only are gadje unclean, but by socializing with them, we can become unclean too.

Professor Ian Hancock in Foretold

This uncleanliness doesnt only come from interaction with outsiders. Many things can be marime, including food preparation and personal hygiene. This episode dives into how this concept evolved from a hygienic and spiritual practice to a lifestyle.

It rests on the idea that you can be physically unclean and you can also be spiritually unclean. And you can take care of physical uncleanliness by washing yourself. But you could only take care of spiritual uncleanliness by living according to a certain way of life.

Professor Ian Hancock in Foretold

Ultimately, avoiding a state of marime is a way of differentiating insiders from outsiders. The practice makes attending public school a field of landmines.

You cannot even eat food cooked by gadje. So whats the kid going to do at lunchtime in the cafeteria? You cannot sit next to the opposite sex in class. What are the kids going to do?

Professor Ian Hancock in Foretold

Of course, just as with any spiritual or cultural practice, there are degrees of adherence. Paulina did attend school for several years  as long as her family deemed appropriate. She had one foot in one culture and one foot in another. Why couldnt she comfortably continue that way through high school graduation and beyond? People of various minority cultures already do this.

But they do it at a cost.

Sending children off to an institution designed to teach them how to read, write, and assimilate to a mainstream American society presents an existential threat to a minority culture. The more time you spend reciting the pledge of allegiance, the less time you have to learn, say, the Romani language at home. Day after day, year after year, that repetitive exposure to the mainstream metabolizes in you until youre irrevocably changed.

Listening to Paulinas childhood memories, I recalled a way I too was forever altered by the force of assimilation and, in my case, childish laziness. I was 6 years old, accompanying my mother to a parent-teacher conference. At home I spoke only Spanish, my first language. It was tiresome to constantly toggle from English all day at school to Spanish at home, but I had to do it because my mom didnt speak English.

Imagine my surprise when, that fateful afternoon, she and my teacher carried on an entire conversation in English without even looking to me for a translation.

I petulantly refused to respond in Spanish for years after that, despite my tired mothers best efforts. Now I speak Spanish meekly and with a very noticeable pocha accent. I wish I had kept it as pure as it was when I was 6.

From time to time I get emotional about it, thinking about how I can never express my full self to my cousins in Sonora  I dont have the words to convey my personality. I will always be separated from my family by the scar tissue of my assimilation. The idea of traveling back to my homeland fills me with the deepest insecurities. I have permanent imposter syndrome for the culture I was born into.

So I get it. Kids are impressionable. Languages, practices and customs are only as strong as peoples dedication to them.

But Spanish is still a major language, and my Mexican culture is not in danger of extinction. Romani culture, with a much smaller population, is much more vulnerable.

I think part of this story, too, is this fear that the culture is being diluted, and what do you do with that and how do you preserve it?

Faith E. Pinho in Foretold

Well, you preserve it by being strict. And this is going to sound weird, maybe, but in our case, I believe in segregation. I know thats a terrible word.

Professor Ian Hancock in Foretold

There is nuance here somewhere between an uncomfortably charged term like "segregation" and the idea of shielding ones offspring, the bearers of your cultural history, from the slow creep of assimilation and erasure.

Now, imagine being a child, learning the joy of your culture, the only way of life you know, and then being taught to hide it from your peers. For what? You dont know, but it feels bad. As a child, the nuance and complexity doesnt register fully, if at all. The effects are just understood emotionally, as it was in Paulinas memory when she recounts what happened after a teacher approached her father and mentioned knowing their Romani identity.

He told my mom. He was like, They know that we're Gypsies, and, you know, should we leave? Is that bad? He didn't really know. And then after that, he was fine with it.... But just that initial moment, I guess, sparked a little fear.

Paulina Stevens in "Foretold"

And so the discomfort in Paulinas early education wasnt just first-day-of-school jitters or the growing pains of an adolescent life, it was many things at once. A fear of discrimination. A risk of becoming marime. A falling stone in the erosion of Paulinas dedication to the lifestyle in which she was raised. But it was also the seed of change  and whether change is culture evolving or culture eroding depends on who you ask.

 Jazmin Aguilera

Roma wheel in red

Go even deeper

There is no monolithic "Romani American experience," not even in California  there are a multitude of them. Author Oksana Marafioti shares her recollections of how arriving in Los Angeles as a teenager led her to celebrate the various parts of her heritage.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
(Clockwise, from top left) The coronation spoon; the ampulla; St Edwards Crown; a picture showing St Edward's Crown, the orb, the sceptre with cross, the sceptre with dove and the sovereign's ring; the orb; and Queen Mary's Crown. (Royal Collection Trust/PA)

King Charles's coronation will take place in a ceremony dating back over a 1,000 years and while it will be adapted to keep in mind a contemporary spirit, much of the structure will be rooted in this longstanding tradition, the palace has said.

Despite the fact that the coronation ceremony on 6 May has taken place at Westminster Abbey for 900 years, most of the objects currently in use for the service don't date back that far  even if some of them are centuries old.

Yahoo explains what all the regalia and ornate objects are that you'll see in the arcane ceremony in May and what symbolic meaning they have.

What is the ampulla?

The ampulla in which the anointing oil is kept during the coronation. (Royal Collection Trust/PA)

The ampulla is an ornate jar, shaped like an eagle with its wings outstretched, used to store the holy oil the monarch will be anointed with.

Its design is based on a legend involving St Thomas Beckett, who is said to have had a vision that the Virgin Mary appeared to him and presented him with a jug like this that would be used to anoint all the kings of England.

An earlier version of the jar was previously used, but that one was smaller than today's.

Fun fact: The head of the eagle unscrews and there is a hole in the beak that allows the oil to be poured out in the ceremony.

Read more: Royal Collection Trust - The Ampulla

What is the coronation spoon?

The coronation spoon (Royal Collection Trust/PA)

The coronation spoon is first recorded as being part of the coronation regalia in 1349, but even then it was listed by the record keeper as being an antique, so we can safely presume it is even older than that.

It is used in the ceremony when the monarch is being anointed; the holy oil is poured onto the silver gilt spoon before the archbishop then uses it to consecrate the monarch for their new role.

It was sold off in 1649, but unlike everything else didn't get melted down, and was returned for use in the coronation in 1661. It has been in use ever since.

Fun fact: The spoon is oldest surviving artefact still used in the coronation today.

Story continues

Read more: Fascinating history of the Coronation Spoon, the oldest relic used in royal ceremony

What is the sceptre with cross?

Sovereign's Sceptre with Cross. (Royal Collection Trust/PA)

Technically, there are two sceptres involved in the coronation ceremony, but only the one with a cross on its top has traditionally been referred to as one.

The sovereign's sceptre with cross is part of the collection of the Crown jewels, created by Sir Robert Vyner in 1661 for the coronation of Charles II.

It features the Cullinan I diamond  otherwise known as the Star of Africa  which weighs 530.2 carats and was added in 1910. It also includes emeralds, rose-cut diamonds, rubies and amethyst monde.

Fun fact: The sovereign's sceptre symbolises temporal power and good governance.

Read More: A Brief History of the Cullinan Diamonds, Queen Elizabeth's Most Valuable Jewels

What is the sceptre with dove?

The St Edward's Crown, the orb, the sceptre with cross, the sceptre with dove and the sovereign's ring. (Crown Copyright/PA Archive/PA Images)

The other sceptre involved in the coronation ceremony features a dove instead of a cross at the top, symbolising the holy ghost.

It was also commissioned for Charles II's coronation and created by royal goldsmith Robert Vyner.

The gold rod features emeralds, rubies and diamonds, and represents the monarch's spiritual role and responsibilities for pastoral care to the people they rule over.

Fun fact: The sceptre with dove is traditionally known as the rod of equity and mercy.

Read More: Complete guide to the Crown Jewels to feature in King Charless Coronation

What is the Queen Consort's sceptre with dove?

Camilla will be crowned alongside Charles on 6 May at a smaller coronation ceremony. (Getty Images)

The consort's sceptre with dove is part of the regalia Camilla will be invested with as Queen.

The rod is, controversially, made from ivory  which comes from animals like elephants and rhinos.

It has been used during the coronation of a consort since 1685, and is smaller than the monarch's sceptre.

Prince William is a conservationist and passionate campaigner against the ivory trade, so initially it was in doubt whether the ivory sceptre would be used.

Fun Fact: The sceptre was first used by Mary of Modena, the wife of James II.

Read more: Queen Camilla will hold ivory sceptre during coronation ceremony

What is the orb?

Charles will be invested with regalia like the orb which represents the Christian world during his coronation. (RCT/PA)

The orb symbolises the Christian world, and along with the rod and sceptre is one of the objects the monarch is invested with to symbolise their sovereignty, before they are crowned and after they have been anointed.

It's split into three sections, which represent continents - because in medieval times only three continents were known of, and a cross is set atop it.

The orb features emeralds, rose-cut diamonds, rubies, sapphires and a single row of pearls.

It is placed in the monarch's right hand and represents their power.

What are the swords of state?

Top to bottom: The sword of state, the sword of spiritual justice, the sword of temporal justice and the sword of mercy. (Crown copyright/PA)

There are five swords of state that play a part in the coronation ceremony: the sword of temporal justice, the sword of spiritual justice, the sword of mercy, the sword of offering and the great sword of state.

The sword of state symbolises the power of the monarch and is part of the regalia used to signify that the royal authority of the crown has been invested in the new sovereign at the coronation service.

It is handed to the monarch after the anointing but before the crowning itself, after it has been presented to the monarch, a peer traditionally offers a price for it and then removes it from the scabbard, carrying it open for the rest of the ceremony.

Fun Fact: The sword of mercy is also called Curtana and has a blunted tip, which signifies the merciful nature of the monarch.

What is the armillis?

Queen Elizabeth holding Prince Charles's hand as she wears the armillis designed for her 1953 coronation. (PA)

The armillis are chunky bracelets placed on the wrists of the new monarch as part of the investiture, which takes places after the anointing  they are referred to as bracelets of sincerity and wisdom.

One pair was created by royal goldsmith Robert Vyner for the coronation of Charles II, and were used at every coronation until the late Queen's in 1953.

Fun act: The late Queen's armillis was commissioned as a gift from the Commonwealth and are made from 22 carat gold with red velvet lining.

Read more: Behind the scenes at the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II

What are the spurs?

The orb, the spurs and the sovereign's ring. The spurs are also known as St George's spurs. (Crown Copyright/PA)

The spurs are presented to the monarch after they have been anointed and then placed back on the altar.

Gold spurs have been part of the coronation ceremony since 1189, for the crowning of Richard I, who was also known as Richard the Lionhear.

Their purpose in the coronation is derived from the ceremony of creating a knight, and they symbolise knighthood  they used to attached to the new monarch's feet, but now they simply hold them at the ankle and put them back on the altar.

Fun fact: The spurs are also called St George's spurs.

Read more: King Charless coronation: The aristocrats taking on the task of crowning royalty

What crown will be used in King Charles's coronation?

St Edward's Crown will be used by Charles during the 6 May coronation service. (RCT/PA)

Following tradition, King Charles will be officially crowned with the St. Edwards Crown, the same headpiece that his mother Queen Elizabeth II used.

The current St Edwards Crown has been around since 1661, created for Charles IIs coronation in place of the medieval crown that had been melted down by parliamentarians in 1649, following the execution of King Charles I.

It was commissioned from the Crown jeweller, Robert Vyner, to follow in the footsteps of the original mediaeval design, with four crosses-pattee, four fleurs-de-lis, and two arches atop solid gold frame set with rubies, amethysts, sapphires, garnet, topazes and tourmalines.

The crown is topped with an orb and a cross, symbolising the Christian world and features a velvet cap with an ermine band, much like the the robe of state of crimson velvet.

Fun fact: The St Edward's Crown is the heaviest of the coronation crown at 2.23kg (nearly 5lbs).

Read more: St Edward's Crown: The historic centrepiece of King Charles's coronation

What crown will Camilla use during the coronation?

Camilla will be crowned with Queen Mary's crown on 6 May. (RCT/PA)

It was announced in February that Queen Marys crown had been chosen by Camilla for the coronation, when it was removed from the Tower of London for minor adjustments and modification work ahead of the ceremony in May.

The art deco-inspired crown was originally created for Mary of Teck in 1911, but will undergo some alterations by the Crown jeweller, including being reset with some of the rarest and most expensive gems in the world, the Cullinan III, IV and V diamonds, in tribute to the late Queen Elizabeth.

Much like its inspiration, Queen Alexandras crown of 1902, Queen Marys crown can be worn without the arches in the form of a circlet, which Queen Mary wore for the coronation of her son, King George VI, in 1937.

Fun fact: This will be the first time a new crown has not been commissioned for the consort and the palace have said that this is in the interest of sustainability.

Read More: Camilla to wear Queen Marys crown for coronation

Who made the coronation necklace and earrings?

The coronation earrings and other jewellery were last worn by Elizabeth, the Queen Mother in 1937. (PA)

While Buckingham Palace is yet to confirm the exact pieces of jewellery to be worn by Camilla when she is crowned in May, the Queen Consort is likely to wear a series of priceless gems that date back hundreds of years.

The current coronation necklace was presented to Queen Victoria in 1858, and has been worn by several queen consorts during their coronations  Queen Alexandra in 1902, Queen Mary in 1911 and Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, in 1937  and Queen Elizabeth II at her own coronation in 1953.

Created by royal jewellers Garrard, it features 25 graduated brilliant-cut diamonds and a 22.48 carat diamond pendant, known as the Lahore Diamond.

It was among several new pieces of jewellery commissioned by Victoria, which also included the coronation earrings, that replaced the collection belonging to Queen Charlotte, her grandmother, that her uncle, Ernest Augustus Duke, had taken when he became King of Hanover.

The coronation earrings feature an additional four stones taken from an aigrette and a garter star, and were subsequently worn at the coronations of Queen Consorts Mary in 1911, and Elizabeth in 1937.

Fun fact: The diamonds from the Victorias collection are said to have come from swords and useless things in the royal collection, with the 28 gems from the necklace being removed from a garter badge and a sword hilt.
East African leaders on Sunday called for an immediate end to the ongoing fighting in Sudan where military clashes have killed at least 97 people and injured hundreds of others.

The Kenyan Presidency said the leaders from the regional bloc, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), held an emergency virtual session on Sunday where they called for an immediate cessation of hostilities between the parties to the conflict in Sudan.

Those in the emergency session were President William Ruto of Kenya, Salva Kiir of South Sudan, Yoweri Museveni of Uganda, Ismail Omar Guelleh of Djibouti, and Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia.

"President William Ruto asked IGAD leaders to take a firm position on the crisis to restore peace in the country," the presidency said in a statement issued in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya.

The leaders resolved to send presidents Kiir, Ruto and Guelleh at the earliest possible time to reconcile the conflicting groups.

The leaders also asked the two parties to the conflict in Sudan to provide a safe corridor for humanitarian assistance in Khartoum, Sudan's capital, and other affected towns.

Violent clashes erupted on Saturday between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Khartoum and other cities, where the two sides traded accusations of initiating the conflict.

The tension between the two military forces has escalated since Wednesday in the Merowe region in northern Sudan, after the RSF moved military vehicles to a location near the military air base there, a move that the army considered illegal.

Deep differences have emerged between the Sudanese army and the RSF, particularly regarding the latter's integration into the army as stipulated in a framework agreement signed between military and civilian leaders on Dec. 5, 2022.





Produced by Xinhua Global Service
David Choe as Isaac in 'BEEF.' Credit - Andrew CooperNetflix

BEEF, the dark A24 comedy series, was released on Netflix earlier this month to critical acclaim. The streamer shared today that the show was among the top 10 most watched series in 87 different countries in its second week, and its title has been frequently evoked as the eligibility cutoff for this years Emmy Awards approaches next month. But discourse surrounding previous comments made by the artist David Choe, who stars alongside Ali Wong and Steven Yeun as Yeuns characters cousin, has since reached a fever pitch.

In a 2014 podcast, Choe told a story about sexually assaulting a masseuse, which he called rapey behavior. Though he later denied that he was speaking factually and apologized for his comments, a journalists recent resurfacing of the podcast episode on Twitter has called into question the BEEF creators decision to cast him.

Who is David Choe?

Choe is a Los Angeles-based artist who has been working for three decades. He is perhaps best known for painting murals for the Meta (then Facebook) offices. In 2005, Sean Parker, then president of Facebook, invited Choe to paint the walls of the tech companys first offices in Palo Alto, Calif. Choe chose to receive payment in stock rather than cash, and when Facebook went public seven years later, his shares were valued at approximately $200 million. Two years later, Mark Zuckerberg commissioned Choe to paint murals for their next offices.

The first set of murals drew mixed reactions. In 2006, Gawker reported that a journalist for Jaded Magazine had been shadowing Choe when he was at work in the Palo Alto offices. Within this short 20-minute visit, Parker encouraged him to go crazy and draw as many giant cocks as Choe wanted, reads an excerpt from the Jaded journalist in Gawker. I saw the artist slap on a smile and slip into David Choe persona, immediately head downstairs, and tag up a woman on all fours in about two minutes to the delight and amusement of Parker and his friend. (According to the Los Angeles Times, the allegedly sexually graphic artwork has since been airbrushed out of the official Facebook history.)

Story continues

Choes artworkand the persona to which the Jaded journalist was referringexplores themes like degradation and desire, and the artist has termed his work dirty style. After the Facebook murals (the second set of which were comparatively tame, depicting abstract faces, bodies, and eyes), he held solo exhibitions in New York, London, and Mexico City. He has worked with Vice, CNN, and HBO, and recently created The Choe Show for FX, in which he paints famous guests and takes them on a journey of shared emotional experience.

What happened in 2014?

In 2013, Choe started co-hosting the podcast DVDASA with adult film star Asa Akira. On March 10, 2014, DVDASA released an episode in which Choe said that he engaged in rapey behavior.

He told a story about sexually assaulting a Black woman who had been giving him a massage. He said that he started to masturbate in front of the masseuse without telling her.

Im at a place and theres potential for a lawsuit, and she has given me no signs that shes into me or that this is appropriate behavior, BuzzFeed reported that Choe said on the podcast. In my head I go, Do you care if I jerk off right now? and it sounds so creepy in my head that I go, I cant say that out loud.

So I go back to the chill method of: you never ask first, you just do it, get in trouble, and then pay the price later.

Choe went on to say that after the masseuse stopped the massage, he asked her to pretend like Im not doing this and continue with the massage, which she did. He asked to touch her, touched her, and she pulled away. He then described an escalation that culminated in him pushing her head down and forcing her to perform oral sex.

[https://twitter.com/aurabogado/status/1647017287986339840?s=20]

On the podcast, after Choe told this story, Akira said, You raped allegedly. Choe responded, Well encouraged.

I just want to make it clear that I admit that thats rapey behavior, Choe said. But I am not a rapist.

Akira then said, Youre basically telling us that youre a rapist right now. To which Choe responded, Yeah.

What was the response to the podcast?

At the time, writer Melissa Stetten first covered the podcast episode for the now-defunct website XOJane. Then Ali Vingiano and Tasneem Nashrulla picked up the story for BuzzFeed News. On the same day that the BuzzFeed article went up in 2014, Choe responded.

On DVDASAs now-defunct website, he wrote that he was not a rapist, that the podcast is not a representation of reality, and that the stories he told on it were not facts.

I never thought Id wake up one late afternoon and hear myself called a rapist, Choe wrote, according to BuzzFeed. It sucks. Especially because I am not one. I am not a rapist. I hate rapists, I think rapists should be raped and murdered. I am an artist and a storyteller and I view my show DVDASA as a complete extension of my art.

In 2017, Choe was commissioned to paint a mural in Manhattans Lower East Side, which was protested by other artists. (Less than a week after the mural was finished, graffiti writers tagged huge letters over the piece in a show of disapproval.)

Choe then apologized again via his Instagram account. In a 2014 episode of DVDASA, I relayed a story simply for shock value that made it seem as if I had sexually violated a woman, he wrote. Though I said those words, I did not commit those actions. It did not happen. I have ZERO history of sexual assault.

I am deeply sorry for any hurt Ive brought to anyone through my past words, he continued. Non-consensual sex is rape and it is never funny or appropriate to joke about. I was a sick person at the height of my mental illness, and have spent the last 3 years in mental health facilities healing myself and dedicating my life to helping and healing others through love and action.

Whats happening now?

Less than a week after BEEF came out, on April 12, Aura Bogado, a senior reporter at the Center for Investigative Reporting, responded to a tweet about Choe from the Twitter account @FilmUpdates.

[https://twitter.com/aurabogado/status/1646330108125519873?s=20]

David Choe, as in the guy who detailed the way he raped a woman? Bogado quote-tweeted. And then came back to say it was just a misunderstood version of his reality?

Bogado posted a video clip of the podcast to Twitter, then tweeted that Choe wrote to Twitter to get the video taken down. She included screenshots of emails addressed to her in which it appears that Choe has claimed that his nonprofit, the David Young Choe Foundation, owns the copyright to the video. Tweets that included the video were removed from Twitter on April 16.

That email seems to be the only response that Choe has given to the incident since it resurfaced. Netflix, the BEEF producersincluding Ali Wong and Steve Yeunand A24 have not responded to the allegations. Twitter users have called out the BEEF stars silence.

Reposting this again so you lot can get a grip. Both Steven Yeun AND Ali Wong are friends with David Choe. Friends. Buddies. Homies. Pals!



They knew. Stop acting like they didnt know because you like them. https://t.co/bP77IgOdUI  Clarkisha Kent (@IWriteAllDay_) April 17, 2023

ali wong used her power as executive producer to hire & platform this man after his very public patterns of misogynoir. it's simply anti-Black for her to cosign & to now try killing the story. r*pists & abusers remain in power bc of the protection from the enablers around them https://t.co/paV7KFEe8v  heenz (@heenasharma_) April 18, 2023

As of press time, Netflix had not responded to TIMEs request for comment.
A Black teenager who was shot by a homeowner after ringing the wrong doorbell is recovering and charges were filed Monday afternoon against a white man as calls for justice intensified in Kansas City, Missouri.

Ralph Paul Yarl, 16, was shot just before 10 p.m. Thursday when he went to pick up his younger twin brothers from a friend's home, police said.

But Yarl went to 115th Street instead of 115th Terrace and was shot twice after ringing the doorbell, his familys attorneys, Lee Merritt and Ben Crump, said.

Whoever was inside took a little longer than he anticipated to respond, and so he just waited at the door, Merritt, told NBC News on Monday, citing a formal statement Yarl gave to law enforcement investigators from his hospital bed Friday.

He heard rustling around going on in the house and then finally the door was open, the attorney said. And he was confronted by a man who told him, Dont come back around here, and then he immediately fired his weapon.

The teen was shot in the head, which cracked his skull and left him with a critical, traumatic brain injury, Merritt said. While the teenager was still on the ground, the homeowner opened fire a second time, striking Yarl in the upper right arm, he added.

Yarl went to three houses before someone finally helped him, his aunt, Faith Spoonmore, wrote on a fundraising page for the teens medical expenses.

Protests were held in Kansas City over the weekend, with some saying the teens race played a role in his shooting.

Police Chief Stacey Graves Sunday said that while shooting did not appear to be racially motivated, she did recognize the racial components of this case.

I want everyone to know that I am listening and I understand the concern we are receiving from the community, she added.

Late Monday afternoon, Andrew Lester, 85, who is white, was charged with two felony counts in the shooting, and a warrant was issued for his arrest.

What is the status of the investigation?

Late Monday afternoon, Clay County, Mo., prosecutors filed two two felony counts against the white homeowner, Andrew Lester, 85: assault in the first degree and armed criminal action.

Story continues

A warrant was issued for Lesters arrest, but Prosecuting Attorney Zachary Thompson said Lester was not in custody.

Thompson said there was a racial component to the shooting but he didnt elaborate.

Lester faces a maximum punishment of life in prison in the assault charge and three to 15 years for the alleged gun crime, Thompson said.

Kansas City Police worked through the weekend to build a solid case for prosecutors, Graves said Sunday.

She said then that a formal statement from Yarl is forthcoming as he recovers, but that investigators have recovered a firearm from the scene that is being held as evidence.

Authorities also will consider whether the suspect was protected by Missouris Stand Your Ground law, the chief said.

The law says a would-be shooter defending life or property does not have to retreat before taking violent action.

As demands for accountability build, Mayor Quinton Lucas has promised a thorough investigation and appropriate action.

We will make sure we do all we can to be fair, to make sure were as expeditious as possible and more than anything to make sure that everyone, no matter their background, knows that justice can be obtained here in Kansas City, he said.

Who is Ralph Yarl?

The musically inclined as well as academically driven high school junior is described by his family as a fantastic kid who was looking forward to visiting West Africa before starting college.

Yarl attends Staley High School, where he is an excellent student and talented musician, North Kansas City Schools Superintendent Dan Clemens said in a statement Monday.

He maintains a stellar GPA while taking mostly college level courses," he said. "While he loves science and hopes to pursue that career path, his passion is music. Thankfully, we know he is now recovering alongside family."

Yarl is a member of his schools jazz and competition band, Spoonmore, his aunt, wrote on the fundraising page.

Brad Hudson, the Missouri All-State Band coordinator, said 1,500 students auditioned for the band in December, and Yarl was recognized in the Honorable Mention Band. Musicians in that category do not perform but are recognized in the program, he said.

Yarl was also chosen among 330 rising high school juniors last summer to attend the Missouri Scholars Academy, a three-week residential program for the academically gifted, said Megan Lilien, who taught a college-level chemistry-based science class and spent about three hours in the lab with Yarl and about 17 other students each day of the program.

He was curious, intelligent. Hes quiet, but hes literally taking in the world. You just notice. Hes just observing everything, she said. He has this sweet face. He wasnt the one who was talking all the time or answering all the questions, but you knew he was learning at all times. He was kind. He was definitely respected by everyone in the group.

Yarl's goal is to study chemical engineering in college, Lilien said.

On Monday, Spoonmore said her nephew had been released from the hospital Saturday, with Merritt adding that "he's stabilizing and recovering."

However, Spoonmore previously acknowledged on the fundraising page that Yarl has a long road ahead mentally and emotionally.

The trauma that he has to endure and survive is unimaginable. He is our miracle. We have heard these types of stories many times, and unfortunately, most black boys are not alive to get another chance, she said.

Who is the suspect?

Little is known about Lester.

Phone calls to the address where Yarl was shot went unanswered Monday.

Police said Sunday that the shooter had been taken into custody and held for 24 hours, the maximum for a suspect in a felony until charges are filed.

Police have not said what time the suspect was taken into custody, citing Missouris Sunshine Law, which allows records to be closed to the public in some limited circumstances.

After consulting with the Clay County prosecutors office, the homeowner was released pending further investigation due to the need to obtain a formal statement from the victim and compile additional information for a case file to be presented, Graves said.

Under Missouri law, a vast majority of felony suspects are released after 24 hours, but many are re-arrested once enough evidence is gathered to bring charges, she added.

Crump and Merritt criticized police the release, saying there is no excuse for the release of this armed and dangerous suspect after admitting to shooting an unarmed, non threatening, and defenseless teenager that rang his doorbell.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Andrew D. Lester, the man accused of shooting Ralph Yarl, a Black teenager, in Kansas City, Missouri, turned himself in to the authorities on Tuesday, a day after he was charged with assault in the first degree and armed criminal action.

Lester, 84, was in police custody early Tuesday afternoon, the sheriffs department in Clay County, Missouri, announced.

Lester, who lives in a quiet neighborhood on the northern edge of Kansas City, is charged with shooting Ralph twice on Thursday night after the teenager stood on Lesters front porch, having arrived at the wrong address to pick up his siblings.

On Monday, the authorities submitted the case to the Clay County prosecuting attorneys office. The prosecutor, Zachary Thompson, said there was a racial component to the case, but declined to elaborate.

Heres what we know, and dont know, about the shooting.

What happened?

On Thursday evening, Ralph was sent to pick up his younger twin brothers at a friends house. He mixed up the address and went to Northeast 115 Street instead of Northeast 115th Terrace, which is one block away.

Lester answered the door, the authorities said, and shot the 16-year-old in the forehead and in the right arm.

Thompson said that Ralph did not cross the threshold into the home and that shots were fired through a glass door from a .32-caliber handgun. There was no indication that any words were exchanged, Thompson said.

According to a criminal complaint filed on Monday, Lester told a police officer after the shooting that he saw a Black male pulling on the exterior storm door handle, and that he believed the person was attempting to break into his house. When interviewed by a detective, Ralph said that he only rang the doorbell and did not pull on the door.

A detective said that Ralph told him that after he was shot by Lester, he got up and ran away to keep from being shot.

In an interview with CBS Mornings on Tuesday, Cleo Nagbe, Ralphs mother, described her son as still recovering from his injuries. He got a couple of bullets in his body, instead of a couple of twins coming up, out and giving him a hug, she said of the shooting.

Story continues

Lester was initially taken into custody by the police and was released without charges on Friday.

Ralph is expected to recover.

Paul Yarl, Ralphs father, told The New York Times on Monday that his son, an athlete who loves music and video games, had surgery over the weekend to remove the bullets and was able to walk out of the hospital on Sunday. He is expected to make a full recovery.

In the CBS interview on Tuesday, Ralphs mother, who works as a nurse, said her son was doing considerably well after being shot above his left eye and in his upper right arm.

One of the bullets was lodged in his head for up to 12 hours before it was removed. The residual effect of that injury is going to stay with him for quite a while, Nagbe said.

Ralph is expected to give a formal statement to investigators when his injuries allow.

What do we know about the shooter?

Although Lester was released from custody on Friday, he was not charged until Monday, after protests and anger spread in the community.

Thompson said that a warrant had been issued for Lesters arrest and that bail had been set at $200,000.

I dont have any information regarding his specific whereabouts, he said, but its my understanding law enforcement is aware of the situation and taking all appropriate action.

It was not immediately clear if Lester had a lawyer.

In the CBS interview with Ralphs mother, one of the lawyers representing the family, S. Lee Merritt, was asked whether he thought Lesters age was a factor in the shooting.

The fact that hes 84 years old will be a consideration in terms of what he thought, Merritt said. But Ill remind you the former president and current president of the United States is about that age as well.

Merritt said that Lester had an opportunity to make an intentional decision but decided to shoot the boy.

What has been said about case?

The White House said on Monday that President Joe Biden had spoken to Ralph by phone and that he had shared his hope for a swift recovery.

Mayor Quinton Lucas of Kansas City told the Times on Monday that he was heartbroken and angry about the situation.

Youve heard about driving while Black, Lucas said. Youve heard about all the other issues that Black people confront in life. Can you not knock on the door while Black? Its almost like you cant exist.

After charges were announced against Lester on Monday, Ben Crump and Merritt, lawyers representing the victims family, said in a statement that gun violence against unarmed Black individuals must stop.

Our children should feel safe, not as though they are being hunted, they said. While this is certainly a step in the right direction, we will continue to fight for Ralph while he works toward a full recovery.

c.2023 The New York Times Company
A garage-theme restaurant chain offering freshly-made, extreme burger creations and craft beer pairings is coming to Overland Park.

Sickies Garage Burgers & Brews is taking the former Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews building at 7111 W. 95th St. No opening date was available.

Its burgers include the Wild Hog (with barbecue sauce, two strips of peppered bacon, onion ring and American cheese), the Philly (provolone cheese, green peppers, mushrooms and onions), the Jesse James (with barbecue pork, fried jalapenos, pepper jack cheese and spicy ranch), the Glazed Doughnut (American cheese and peppered bacon on a glazed doughnut bun) and the Sickies Burger (peppered bacon, fried egg, pulled pork, barbecue sauce and American cheese, topped with onion rings and a splash of hot sauce).

It also has chicken wings (with 25 sauce selections), mashed potato bowls, macaroni and cheese bowls, homestyle dinners (such as meatloaf, chopped steak, chicken fried chicken and hot beef sandwiches), Kobe burgers, chicken sandwiches, salads, cauliflower wings, fried green beans, cheese curds, nachos and quesadillas. It serves more than 50 craft beers, as well as hand-spun boozy milkshakes.

The Fargo, North Dakota-based casual restaurant was founded in 2012 and now has nine locations in Florida, Nebraska, Nevada, North Dakota and South Dakota. Two are scheduled to open this summer in Texas.

The decor features car and motorcycle memorabilia.

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews closed two years ago after 15 years of operation in the building.

Chain known for specialty burgers and beers loses Johnson County spot after 15 years
We now know who will be joining Idris Elba in Paramount+s new live-action series, Knuckles.

Paramount+, Paramount Pictures, and SEGA of America just announced its entire cast for the Sonic The Hedgehog spinoff series, which is currently in production in London. It is a spinoff of the animated film series. Idris Elba first starred as Knuckles in the second film.

Here's an official description:

The new live-action series will follow Knuckles on a hilarious and action-packed journey of self-discovery as he agrees to train Wade as his protege and teach him the ways of the Echidna warrior.

Adam Pally, Tika Sumpter, and more are joining Idris Elba who is set to star the titular character Knuckles.

Pally will reprise his role from the film franchise as Wade Whipple. The ensemble includes Edi Patterson (The Righteous Gemstones), Julian Barratt (Mindhorn), Scott Mescudi (Dont Look Up), Ellie Taylor (Ted Lasso) and guest star Rory McCann (Game of Thrones). Sumpter will be reprising her role as Maddie in the series in a guest star role.

All of the key creative team from the previous films are returning for the series.

This includes the films director Jeff Fowler, as well as Neal H. Moritz, Toby Ascher, John Whittington, Idris Elba, and Toru Nakahara, who all serve as executive producers on the series.

Additional directors for the series include Ged Wright, Brandon Trost, Jorma Taccone and Carol Banker.
The Russian news outlet Agentstvo has reported that Russian President Vladimir Putin visited the temporarily occupied territory of Kherson Oblast before Easter, and was not far from the border with Crimea.

Source: Agentstvo on Telegram; Kremlin-aligned news outlet RIA Novosti

Details: The outlet has drawn attention to the fact that the video of Putin's visit to Ukraine's Kherson Oblast, posted by propaganda media on 18 April, shows a stele at the entrance to Henichesk from the village of Novooleksiivka.

And also to the fact that in one of the shots, Putin hands the soldiers a copy of an icon that belonged to "one of the most successful ministers of defence of the Russian army in the nineteenth century" and says that "it's about to be Easter, right?".

Agentstvo has noted that Easter was on 16 April, so it can be concluded that the Russian dictator's trip to the temporarily occupied territories and meeting with the military took place last week.

           ,       ,    "".    ,  " ".    .   Telegram- "" pic.twitter.com/W9dyMItwLJ     (@ukrpravda_news) April 18, 2023

Later, Putin's remark about Easter in the Kremlin's video was edited, in particular, the word "will" was deleted [so that he appears to be saying "its Easter"  ed.].

The outlet has also noted that the video may give the impression that Putin arrived in Henichesk by helicopter. However, the footage of Putin's departure from the city shown later may indicate that he travelled by helicopter only through the territory of Crimea, and went to Kherson Oblast by car.

Story continues

The footage of Putin's departure shows the Chonhar Hotel, located right on the border with Crimea. Several helicopters are circling over the hotel.

The Kremlin has said that Putin's trips to the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine were supposedly "not prepared in advance".

Later, the propaganda outlet RIA Novosti posted a comment by Dmitry Peskov, Putin's press secretary, who claimed that Putin had been in Ukraine on 17 April. He said that the commentators had allegedly hooked on one of the Russian dictator's phrases and immediately began to put forward supposedly "false hypotheses".

Quote from Peskov: "It was yesterday [17 April  ed.]. Indeed, the president, when he presented the icon, said that it is Easter. But the fact is that Easter lasts 40 days, it is celebrated for 40 days, and, moreover, it is Easter week now."

Background:

On 18 April, Russian propaganda media outlets reported that Russian dictator Vladimir Putin had allegedly visited the headquarters of the Dnepr military group on the Kherson front and the Vostok group in Luhansk Oblast.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
The merits of a lawsuit against a bill recently passed to ban slot-like gray machines from gas stations, bars and convenience stores across Kentucky are still in limbo.

But a judge had plenty to say about Attorney General Daniel Camerons efforts to change the court that would hear the case, which was filed against the state by some in the gray machines industry. Camerons office responded to the lawsuit by arguing that Senate Bill 126 should apply in this case. The bill was enacted to allow litigants to move their legal challenges related to state government or legislation to a randomly selected circuit court across the state.

Franklin Circuit Judge Phillip Shepherd, in an order, kicked the question of whether Camerons use of that Senate Bill 126 provision was allowed to the Kentucky Supreme Court.

Camerons office was named the defendant in Franklin Circuit Court in the lawsuit regarding gray machines. The suit alleges a ban on the machines is a violation of due process, free speech and equal protection rights.

The attorney general asked for a venue change to be initiated under the provisions of Senate Bill 126, which his office argued is a constitutional provision because the constitution states the legislature can direct where and in what manner suits against the Commonwealth are brought.

Shepherd presented evidence in his order that undermined Camerons argument.

While the argument of the Attorney General has a superficial appeal, an examination of the case law demonstrates that it is simply wrong and ignores the well-established meaning of the term suits against the Commonwealth, Franklin Circuit Judge Phillip Shepherd wrote in the order.

He added that the bill creates a unilateral and unreviewable right for any party to such litigation to implement a transfer with no judicial involvement, discretion or oversight. It directs the clerk of the Kentucky Supreme Court to implement the random lottery selection of a new circuit court, but Shepherd pointed out circuit courts ordinarily have no role in determining the validity of the clerks duties.

Story continues

In court, Shepherd similarly challenged the use of Senate Bill 126, according to the Kentucky Lantern, comparing it to the Wheel of Fortune.

He can spin the Wheel of Fortune and go to a different jurisdiction, Shepherd said, referring to a hypothetical plaintiff in a case. Why is the plaintiff allowed to change the jurisdiction that he originally chose other than to allow the plaintiff an opportunity to forum shop?

Attorneys for Cameron argued in court theres a critical government interest in providing litigants access to courts without any concern of bias.

Gov. Andy Beshear vetoed Senate Bill 126, but was overriden by the majority-GOP legislature. Beshear framed the bill as an attempt to circumvent Franklin Circuit Court, which has drawn the ire of Republicans in recent years. He called the bill a legislative power grab to control Kentucky courts.

In November, Shepherd defeated a GOP-backed challenger by 26 percentage points in a high-dollar and oftentimes contentious race.

Shepherds order to kick the decision up to the Kentucky Supreme Court has no effect on the merits of the case against the gray machines ban as of yet. If the Kentucky Supreme Court declines to intervene on the matter of Senate Bill 126s validity, Franklin Circuit Court will issue a ruling.
FORT LAUDERDALE  A Lake Worth Beach man and his brother have been indicted on allegations that they fraudulently obtained millions of dollars in federal loans intended help small businesses survive shutdowns related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Investigators say Patrick Charles, 41, and his brother, Carl Henry Charles, 43, of Miramar received about $2.5 million in loans and advances through the Small Business Administration's Economic Injury Disaster Loan, or EIDL, Program. It was created in March 2020 as part of the CARES  Coronavirus, Aid, Relief and Economic Security  Act approved by Congress.

The siblings made appearances Friday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Panayotta Augustin-Birch at the Fort Lauderdale courthouse. Each was granted a $250,000 bond and ordered to surrender their passports.

The court allowed each defendant to be represented by temporary counsel and scheduled an arraignment hearing for April 28. On Monday, the case was set for a May 22 trial date in Miami before U.S. District Judge Beth Bloom.

Fort Lauderdale-based attorney Michael Weinstein is representing Patrick Charles. He said Monday that he is still reviewing the indictment and awaiting discovery documents.

"We're going to investigate the government's case and we will defend him accordingly," he said.

Lawyer sentenced: $1.6M theft of CARES Act money sends South Florida attorney to prison for three-plus years

CARES Act fraud: Palm Beach County Inspector General: Forged documents used in COVID relief cases

Candidate convicted: One-time West Palm office seeker sentenced to prison for $800K CARES Act loan fraud

According to an indictment unsealed Friday, the Charles brothers submitted applications from March 2020 through December 2021 to the Small Business Administration seeking nearly $5 million for businesses that did not exist before the start of the pandemic and that did not have any revenue or other business activity.

The indictment alleges that Patrick and Carl Henry Charles and unnamed accomplices opened and directed others to open bank accounts for the purpose of securing EIDL advances and loans. Carl Henry Charles and unspecified accomplices reportedly collected and used the personally identifiable information of others to submit fraudulent applications. The siblings then used the loans to enrich themselves and others, according to a statement from the U.S. Attorney's Office.

Story continues

Both face multiple counts of wire fraud. If convicted, Patrick Charles faces up to 60 years in prison and Carl Henry faces up 80 years, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office.

Julius Whigham II is a criminal justice and public safety reporter for The Palm Beach Post. You can reach him at jwhigham@pbpost.com and follow him on Twitter at @JuliusWhigham. Help support our work: Subscribe today.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Two South Florida men indicted on federal COVID-19 economic relief fraud
(Bloomberg) -- Indias Supreme Court began hearing arguments for granting legal recognition to same-sex marriages in a crucial case that will decide the fate of marital and allied rights for lesbian and gay couples in the 1.4 billion-strong South Asian nation.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The court will confine the hearing to Indias secular law on marriage  the Special Marriage Act  without delving into the contours of the laws that govern religious marriages in the country, Chief Justice D. Y. Chandrachud said during the proceedings Tuesday.

We have to be conscious of our own limitations, Chandrachud said, hinting that amending existing laws, like religion-based personal codes falls within the powers of parliament.

Its unclear how long the Supreme Court will take to decide the case, which addresses what its called a seminal issue of great importance. The court set up a five-judge constitution bench to hear the clutch of petitions after Prime Minister Narendra Modis government said it opposes gay marriage rights and that the matter should be legislated by Indias parliament and not decided by the courts.

In its latest court filing Sunday, the federal government buttressed its stand that deciding on issues touching upon human relations such as marriage is essentially a legislative function.

India is a country of several divergent religions, castes, sub-castes and schools of religions, the personal laws and customs all recognise only marriage amongst heterosexual persons, the governments latest court filing adds. The government has also cited social norms to oppose same-sex marriage and said that the so-called idea of family in Indian culture only accepts marriage between a biological man and a biological woman.

Story continues

India decriminalized homosexuality in 2018, but has yet to extend family rights to the LGBTQ community.

The court proceedings will be closely watched, particularly in Asia where Taiwan is the only jurisdiction to recognize same-sex marriage. Should Indias Supreme Court rule in favor of marriage equality, the country will become the worlds largest democracy to do so.

While the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh  the ideological parent of Modis ruling Bharatiya Janata Party  had announced it opposed marriage equality, at least two Muslim religious groups have also placed their opposition before the court.

A number of rights, like adoption and inheritance, that are allied to marital rights remain absent for Indias LGBTQ people.

The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights also joined the fray of opponents to marriage equality, stating in an affidavit before the court that the existing legal system in India does not envision same-sex couples having custody over or adopting children.

In contrast, the Delhi Commission for Protection of Child Rights, a state-level independent body for the National Capital Region, has backed marriage equality and the capability of same-sex couples as parents. The Indian Psychiatrist Society also in a statement earlier this month urged for the members of the LGBTQ community to be treated at par with all citizens of the country.

(Updates with details of hearing.)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
The court was shown photographs taken before and after the damage, which Mr Price admitted he did to the River Lugg

A farmer hired diggers and bulldozers to illegally rip up trees and vegetation from the banks of one of the UK's best salmon rivers, a court heard.

John Price has admitted seven charges of damaging the River Lugg in Herefordshire, including failing to stop pollution entering the waterway.

Price also re-profiled river banks.

The first day of a three-day sentencing hearing at Kidderminster Magistrates' Court was told the Lugg was home to a number of endangered species.

In the wake of the damage, charges against the farmer were brought by the Environment Agency and Natural England.

He hired diggers and bulldozers, removed gravel and silt from the Lugg and carried out work at the site for more than 200 hours, including building a drainage channel into the river.

The farmer hired diggers and bulldozers to carry out the work

Price, of Day House Farm, Kingsland, who owns land either side of the Lugg, had a "habit of driving vehicles through the river at all times of the year", the court was told.

In 2020, he was issued with a stop notice by Natural England. He pleaded guilty to failing to comply with that notice and carrying out similar work the following year.

Prosecutor Bernard Thorogood told the court Price had carried out flood alleviation work on land he was renting in Marden in 2018.

He was warned not to do it again and ordered to repair the damage.

In 2007, he was renting land in Stretford, six miles from his farm, for growing potatoes.

He built a dam in Stretford Brook to create a pool which he used to irrigate the crop. Environment Agency officers found the brook had dried up for 1.5km (1500m) below the dam. He pleaded guilty to two charges and received a fine.

Price had objected to the River Lugg and banks next to his farm being made a site of special scientific interest (SSSI) in February 1995, the court was told.

The defence said the Lugg is home to six protected and endangered species: common otter, Atlantic salmon, white clawed crayfish, brook lamprey, shad and bullhead.

It was also described as one of the best rivers in the UK for salmon and supports many rare water beetle and crane fly species.

The hearing continues.

Follow BBC West Midlands on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Send your story ideas to: newsonline.westmidlands@bbc.co.uk
Chinese Vice Premier Liu Guozhong, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with Uzbek Deputy Prime Minister Jamshid Kuchkarov in Beijing, capital of China, April 18, 2023. (Xinhua/Yue Yuewei)

BEIJING, April 18 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice Premier Liu Guozhong met with Uzbek Deputy Prime Minister Jamshid Kuchkarov in Beijing on Tuesday.

Liu said China is ready to work with Uzbekistan to fully implement the consensus reached by the two heads of state and push China-Uzbekistan relations to a new level.

Liu introduced China's achievements and experience of poverty alleviation upon request, adding that China will strengthen cooperation in poverty reduction and promote the development of the global poverty reduction cause.

Kuchkarov said Uzbekistan is willing to learn from China's experience in poverty reduction and development and deepen exchanges and cooperation with China in various fields. 
Map of Laos

Laos is one of the world's few openly communist states. It is a one-party state and the general secretary of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party holds ultimate power and authority over state and government.

A French colony until the 1953, the power struggle which ensued between royalists and the communist group Pathet Lao also saw the country caught up in the Vietnam War. Communist forces overthrew the monarchy in 1975, heralding years of isolation.

After the fall of the Soviet Union in the 1990s, Laos began opening up to the world. But despite economic reforms, the country remains poor and heavily dependent on foreign aid.

Most Laotians live in rural areas, with around 80% working in agriculture mostly growing rice.

Laos plans for hydropower to become its biggest source of revenue. But its neighbours Vietnam, Thailand and Cambodia have all raised concerns about the environmental impact of its dam-building projects along the Mekong River which they jointly share.

See more country profiles - Profiles by BBC Monitoring

LAO PEOPLE'S DEMOCRATIC RFEPUBLIC: FACTS

Capital: Vientiane

Area: 236,800 sq km

Population: 7.7 million

Language: Lao

Life expectancy: 66 years (men) 70 years (women)

LEADER

President and General Secretary of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party: Thongloun Sisoulith

Thongloun Sisoulith

Thongloun Sisoulith was elected the Lao People's Revolutionary Party's general secretary, and thus effective leader of Laos in January 2021. He is the first civilian with no military background to be general secretary.

MEDIA

A goat eats grass near by TV satellite dishes installed outside houses at a village in the South-western Nakai plateau in Laos.

The ruling LPRP exerts tight control over the media and the government owns most mainstream outlets.

Use of social media, particularly Facebook, is widespread. But press freedom bodies say the authorities monitor usage for content deemed negative and individuals have been punished for posting such material.

TIMELINE

The That Luang Buddhist stupa in the capital Vientiane

Some key dates in the history of Laos:

13th Century - Kingdom of Lan Xang, a million elephants, is founded by prince Fa Ngum who had been exhiled by his father from the Khmer Empire. He makes Theravada Buddhism the state religion.

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1637-1694 - King Sourigna Vongsa rules for 57 years - seen as Lao's " Golden Age". After his death the country splits into three.

1763-1769 - Burmese armies overran northern Laos and annexe Luang Prabang.

1777 - Southern Laos comes under Thai rule.

1893 - Laos becomes a French protectorate until 1945, when it is briefly occupied by the Japanese towards the end of World War Two.

1946 - French return following the surrender of Japan.

1950 - Faced with an increasingly difficult war against the Viet Minh across much of French Indochina, France grants Laos semi-autonomy as an associated state within the French Union.

1954 - Laos gains full independence as a constitutional monarchy as French withdraw following defeat at the Battle of Dien Bien Phu by the Viet Minh.

1960 - Fighting breaks out between the Royal Lao Army and the communist North Vietnamese and Soviet Union-backed Pathet Lao forces, leading to civil war.

1960s - The United States intervenes in the region in a bid to prop up its ally South Vietnam against North Vietnamese and Viet Cong attacks. Laos is subject to extensive bombing the US attempts to destroy North Vietnamese sanctuaries and to rupture the supply lines known as the Ho Chi Minh trail.

1973 - Vientiane ceasefire agreement divides Laos between the communists and the royalists.

1975 - The Pathet Lao - renamed the Lao People's Front - seizes power and replaces the monarchy with a communist government.

1979 - Food shortages and the flight of hundreds of thousands of refugees to Thailand leads the government to modify its approach.

1986 - Encouraged by President Gorbachev's changes in the USSR, Laos introduces market-oriented reforms.

1994 - "Friendship bridge" over the Mekong linking Laos and Thailand is opened.

1995 - US lifts its 20-year aid embargo.

1997 - Laos becomes a member of Asean, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

2000 - Series of bomb blasts hits Vientiane; authorities blame anti-government groups based abroad. Celebrations of 25 years of communist rule.

2012 - Laos approves plans to build a massive dam at Xayaburi, on the lower Mekong river, despite opposition from environmentalists and neighbours Cambodia and Vietnam.

2013 - Becomes a member of the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

2016 - Barack Obama becomes the first sitting US president to visit Laos.
Railroad tracks with the Los Angeles skyline in the background. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times)

The last time an overnight train connected Los Angeles and San Francisco was 55 years ago.

A Newport Beach-based startup wants to turn back the clock with its version of a "hotel train."

The luxury overnight train could soon provide a new way to travel between San Francisco and L.A., if Dreamstar Lines Inc. can get its plans approved by California rail lines.

The idea for the privately run night train would function as an almost railway red-eye, but with comfortable accommodations so people could get a full night's sleep before waking up at their destination, said Dreamstar CEO Jake Vollebregt. If the small company's plan moves forward, he said the new trains could be running by the summer of 2024.

I think it would represent a renewal of rail," Vollebregt said. For those travelers who have had enough of the security checks and the waiting and the delays [on airlines], well be appealing to them."

Dreamstar hopes to tap into just a small portion of the massive market for travel between two of California's largest cities.

Travel between L.A. and San Francisco has become one of the nation's busiest flight routes, according to recent statistics from OAG Aviation. More than 250,000 airplane seats a month fly between the two cities, OAG data show; Dreamstar plans to provide private rooms for about 65 people per trip  far less than a commercial flight.

Vollebregt said Dreamstar's service would be "more like a private jet company than a big airline," focused on the specialized niche of "upscale, overnight, hotel train service." Its night trains would travel in each direction, departing around 10 p.m. and arriving the next day around 8 a.m., Vollebregt said.

The five or six sleeping cars would offer three types of private rooms: single roomettes, executive-class double bedrooms or first-class staterooms  the latter two having private bathrooms  and a car for drinks, dessert and continental breakfast, he said. The trains would have multiple stops in both L.A. and San Francisco, startup officials said, and a stop and crew-change point in San Luis Obispo.

Story continues

One-way tickets would cost about $300, $600 and $1,000, depending on the tier of room, which Vollebregt said is higher than typical airfare, but below other North American sleeper trains.

An overnight passenger train  Southern Pacific's LARK  ran between the two influential California cities for about two decades beginning in the 1940s, but the service ended in 1968. Amtrak in the 1980s began operating an overnight train from Sacramento to L.A. that stopped in Oakland, but it lasted only two years.

Amtrak currently offers a variety of long-distance travel across California during the day, but none direct from San Francisco to Los Angeles. The Coast Starlight connects L.A. to Oakland and Emeryville, while the San Joaquin route goes from the same Bay Area stops to Bakersfield, but requires a separate bus trip to get to L.A.

"For day trips, travelers have limited options for morning arrivals in either direction or flying up the night before," Vollebregt said. "Why not a night train so travelers can sleep and wake up at their destination?"

He said the "gold standard" for the concept is based on Japan's well-run railway system, which he called "very prompt and comfortable and very affordable." He hopes his team can bring that concept to California, and eventually expand between other metropolitan areas.

But the next step, Vollebregt said, is getting approval and support from necessary stakeholders and railway operators, which includes Union Pacific, which owns most of the Coast Line route the train hopes to use, as well as Metrolink in Southern California and Caltrain closer to San Francisco.

Officials from both Union Pacific and Metrolink confirmed they are in talks with Dreamstar representatives, but neither has reached any type of agreement yet. It wasn't immediately clear if talks had started with Caltrain.

The biggest challenge is getting buy-in from the agencies and the private companies that own the lines and the terminals," Vollebregt said. He is hopeful to begin services in the summer of 2024, but said it depends on how quickly our partners are willing to move.

Scott Johnson, a spokesperson for Metrolink, said Dreamstar representatives had recently "presented very high-level plans for the proposed service."

"More in-depth details and analysis would be needed for the service to move forward," Johnson said in a statement.

Vollebregt admits there are still a lot of questions about the venture, including how scalable and sustainable it would be as a business, as well as nailing down the physical infrastructure and logistics. But he said Dreamstar has spent years researching the feasibility and is confident in its current plans.

"This is one of the biggest travel markets in the country, with more than 10 million airline passengers annually and around 40 million total travelers," Vollebregt said. "A night train would be sustainable with less than a quarter of a percentage point of market share, which would support ridership well above that."

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Flag of Latvia

The criminal case dates to before Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine, from March 10, 2021.

Latvian law enforcement established that Malyshev has been in Russian-controlled territory of Ukraines Luhansk Oblast since at least 2015.

Read also: Latvia warns Russian envoy to leave country by Feb. 24

Malyshev was a long-time member of the so-called 14th battalion of territorial defense of the 2nd army corps of the Peoples Militia of the LNR. He participated in combat operations and attacks on the Ukrainian Armed Forces, thereby opposing the territorial integrity of Ukraine, the report stated.

The Latvian Security Service sent the case to the Prosecutors Office of the Riga District Court last summer, calling for criminal prosecution of the suspect under the Criminal Code article on participating in an armed conflict.

Read also: Latvia wont participate in Olympics alongside athletes from Russia and Belarus

Currently, Malyshev is wanted internationally.

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
In the fight against the proposed Marvin Nichols Reservoir, state Rep. Gary VanDeaver proposed an amendment Tuesday to require a feasibility study of the project by 2025.

VanDeaver, R-New Boston, proposed the study as an amendment to the Texas Water Development Board Sunset Bill, which expires every 12 years and establishes the terms of the agencys continued operation.

The Marvin Nichols Reservoir project would flood 66,000 acres of bottomland hardwood forest in Cuthand, 30 miles southeast of Paris, to provide water to the growing Metroplex 150 miles away.

This would make the proposed Marvin Nichols Reservoir one of the most expensive public works projects and one of the largest land grabs by eminent domain in Texas history, said VanDeaver.

Rep. Terry Canales, D-Edinburg, spoke against the amendment, saying it should be a standalone bill or study.

This is not the place for it, said Canales.

The Texas House opted to table the amendment in favor of a clean bill.

Janice Bezanson of Preserve Northeast Texas, a group fighting the reservoir, said the group plans to testify about the issue before the Senate Committee on Water, Agriculture and Rural Affairs when the bill does there.

This legislative development comes two months after Gov. Greg Abbott told CBS 19 in Tyler that all avenues should be examined to meet water demand.

There are water needs, whether it be in the Dallas area or even in the Tyler area, Abbott said. But what we must do, we must explore other options before we start taking peoples lands or flooding property thats been around for literally centuries.
The Florida Highway Patrol on Sunday arrested a Leesburg man and charged him with attempted murder and other charges stemming from a road rage incident on Floridas Turnpike.

Zion Zaire-Vincent Waller, 22, was stopped by troopers near mile marker 191 after receiving reports at around 6:21 p.m. of a white sedan improperly changing lanes, cutting in front of vehicles and following too closely at speeds of around 100 mph, according to a news release from the the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles

While troopers were speaking to the driver and a passenger, a pickup truck pulled up alongside and said the driver had shot at his vehicle. He pointed to a bullet hole in his drivers door, according to the release.

After searching the vehicle, troopers found a loaded rifle and a handgun on the passenger side floorboard.

Waller told troopers the driver of the pickup truck threatened him with a weapon. No weapon was found in the truck.

Waller was taken to the Osceola County jail and charged with three counts of attempted murder, reckless driving, shooting into an occupied vehicle, aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and possessing an unlicensed firearm.

FHP did not release the names of the three people in the pickup truck.

This article originally appeared on Daily Commercial: FHP accuses Leesburg man, 22, of shooting at another Turnpike driver
The Lexington Police Department is partnering with the Drug Enforcement Administration to host an event where people can properly dispose unwanted or expired prescription drugs for free.

The event will take place on Saturday, National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at Kentucky American Water at 2300 Richmond Road. Police said this will be a no-questions-asked event.

Cleaning out your medicine cabinet could help prevent theft, drug abuse, and potentially save a life, LPD said in a news release.

Prescription and over-the-counter pills, vitamins, medicated ointments and lotions, and pet medication will be accepted. Items that wont be accepted are liquids, aerosol cans and needles, according to police.

More information about take back day can be found at DEAtakeback.com or lexingtonky.gov/med-disposal. Kevin McWilliams, a spokesperson for the DEA, said prevention of prescription drug misuse and opioid addiction starts at home.

At a time when opioid misuse remains at epidemic levels, safely and properly disposing of medications that are no longer needed is a very small act that can have a big impact on keeping prescription drugs out of the wrong hands, McWilliams said. DEAs National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is a great time for all of us to clean out our home medicine cabinets.

Pharmacies and hospitals offer drop boxes where citizens can dispose of prescription medication year-round. Police said doing so properly can prevent drug abuse, theft and save lives.
When Lexington Police Sgt. Tyson Carroll worked homicide, there were times when he would arrive at the scene of a shooting and a witness would point to one of the citys more than 130 traffic cameras, telling officers to pull the video from those cameras to identify the suspect.

The problem?

None of the citys traffic cameras record footage. The cameras are only used by the citys traffic management center for real time conditions.

But under an ambitious new program unveiled Tuesday in Mayor Linda Gortons $505 million budget proposal, the city hopes it can use those cameras and connect them in real time to the citys 100 license plate reader cameras and private business or home security cameras.

Gorton is requesting $150,000 for a software called Fusus that will help Lexington Police Department complete the project.

This intelligence software will allow us to combine our existing technology assets, including alerts from Flock license plate readers and video from traffic cameras, while also allowing the voluntary addition of private security cameras from partnering businesses, even residential cameras, Gorton said.

In addition, police are asking for two full-time analysts who will help monitor and oversee the citys new real time intelligence center. How much those analysts will cost the department has not yet been determined but will likely be more than $100,000 in additional expenses for salaries and benefits.

Assistant Police Chief Brian Maynard said the citys traffic cameras will not be used to target or cite motorists for traffic violations. In Kentucky, it is illegal to use cameras for traffic violations, such as running a red light.

The cameras will be used for investigations.

Building off of Flock cameras

Lexington has used license plate reader cameras since March 2022 and is in the process of increasing the number of them around town from 25 to 100. The cameras record license plate numbers. Those license plates are run against various databases  including outstanding warrants, missing persons and stolen vehicles.

Story continues

The Flock license plate readers have helped find 18 missing persons, allowed police to confiscate 46 guns, led to 246 people arrested and the recovery of $2 million in stolen property, Gorton said.

The license plate readers have not been without controversy.

Some have raised questions about where the cameras are located.

Police have declined to release the location of the cameras, citing security concerns, until all 100 cameras are in place. That should happen soon, Maynard said.

We understand that people had questions about the locations, Maynard said of the Flock cameras.

The location of the citys traffic cameras are already known, he said. Those traffic cameras can be located at https://trafficvid.lexingtonky.gov/publicmap/.

Fusus is unique in that it can help police use license plate readers, traffic cameras and private video from businesses and residents  which police use often  together in one place. Businesses can register their cameras with Fusus to be used at any time or only when police need them. Businesses will not have access to other cameras.

It will create efficiencies, Maynard said.

In major investigations, including shootings, time is important.

Using cameras near the Fifth/Third Pavilion in downtown, police were able to get videos of a shooting on Short and Mill streets in 2022. Although the video did not show the shooters face, the shooter touched two cars.

We were able to get fingerprints, Carroll said.

That saves officers a lot of time, police said.

Technology costs increase

As Lexington police have become reliant on technology, the costs to use those technologies has also steadily increased.

For 75 additional license plate reader cameras, the city will spend around $275,000. Lexington police have also spent millions on body-worn cameras, including an expansion of that program to 175 officers that traditionally do not interact with the public such as assistant chiefs and other personnel.

Costs for software and storage of the video police collect are also climbing.

To store video from the body-worn cameras costs roughly $800,000 annually.

The department is short 105 officers. Efficiencies created by technology can help the under-staffed department, Maynard said.

For example, more than 100 police officers responded to a shooting at the Fayette Mall in August 2020. With no access to Fayette Malls cameras, police had to go through and clear each mall store because police did not know where the shooter was located. The shooter was gone within a few minutes of the shooting, cameras later showed.

The total cost of the response to that call is not known but Maynard said it could have been upwards of $50,000 just in overtime costs.

If police had access to more cameras, it could help them in highly volatile situations to find and arrest suspects, he said.

Oversight of Fusus

Louisville, and Cincinnati and Dayton, Ohio, use Fusus.

Maynard said only officers with certain permissions will be able to access Fusus. Audits will be performed by the departments public integrity unit to make sure the videos arent being accessed by unauthorized people.

Tyler Scott, the mayors chief of staff, said the policies for the central intelligence unit are being developed in consultation with the American Civil Liberties Union, the NAACP and the Lexington-Fayette Human Rights Commission.

The department will discuss Fusus and how it will be used at a Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council Social Services and Public Safety Committee meeting May 2. All the policies will be posted on the departments transparency page, he said.
(This April 18 story has been corrected to remove the reference to criminalising identifying as LGBTQ, a provision dropped in the draft stage, in paragraph 8)

By Ayenat Mersie

NAIROBI (Reuters) - For Kenya's lesbians and gays, a supreme court ruling allowing the rights body that represents their interests to register as a non-governmental organisation has turned out to be a mixed blessing.

February's ruling in favour of the National Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission (NGLHRC) reversed a ban imposed on it by the national board that regulates NGOs, and was welcomed by the commission as a minor affirmation of LGBTQ Kenyans' place in society.

But, in a country where same-sex acts remain punishable by up to 14 years in prison, the ruling has also led to a menacing backlash.

President William Ruto said that, while he respected the supreme court's decision, "it doesn't mean we have to agree with it" - a reaction less hostile than from many other leading politicians.

Meanwhile, NGLHRC activists have reported a surge in threats against the community. Calls it has received reporting abuse, including assaults, threats and discrimination, rose from 78 in January to 117 in February and 367 in March, the commission said.

Victims include a 31-year-old lesbian who was on the back of a motorbike taxi on the capital Nairobi's outskirts last week when she was stopped by about 10 motorcycle riders.

They surrounded her, pushed her, and shouted they knew she was "one of them" - meaning gay - before a couple walking past intervened and the crowd dispersed, the woman, who asked not to be named, told Reuters.

"Things have gotten worse after the ruling and Uganda's recent introduction of the Anti-Homosexuality Bill," she said, referring to a draft law passed by neighbouring Uganda's parliament last month that would introduce the death penalty for some same-sex acts.

For now, Kenya is still seen as a relative haven for LGBTQ people in a hostile region. Unlike in many of the more than 30 other African countries where same-sex relations are illegal, its colonial-era anti-gay law is rarely enforced.

Story continues

The court's judgment said the NGO board's ban on NGLHRC violated constitutional freedoms of association and protections against discrimination.

Yet the NGLHRC's records shows that discrimination - by employers, landlords and healthcare providers - is on the rise, and one lawmaker has threatened to introduce a bill imposing a life sentence for homosexual acts.

For Kevin Mwachiro, an LGBTQ activist for 15 years, this is the most challenging time that the community inside Kenya has experienced.

"People... feel like they have the right to attack you. And they feel that they have that right because of what has been said in the press, what the government has said," he said.

(Reporting by Ayenat Mersie; Editing by Aaron Ross and John Stonestreet; Editing by Jon Boyle)
LGBTQ Ugandans are being threatened and beaten as the nation's president weighs signing legislation that would make merely identifying as LGBTQ a crime and other aspects of homosexuality an offense that could result in the death penalty.

I recently interviewed activist Henry Mukiibi in the Ugandan city of Entebbe. Mukiibi is founder of Children of the Sun Foundation, which provides health care, shelter and advocacy for vulnerable LGBTQ Ugandans.

Within hours of our interview, the hardships faced by the LGBTQ Ugandans that Mukiibis nonprofit was sheltering became even more dire.

Henry, an eviction will solve this problem, a text message he received said. It will help me also you take your s--- somewhere.

The text was from Mukiibis landlord. The s--- the landlord referred to was homosexuality. The landlord proceeded to evict the 20 LGBTQ residents living in the foundation's shelter.

I am scared on where the shelter occupants are going to sleep, Mukiibi texted me after our interview.

He found another location for the shelter, but the new landlord required four months of rent before the group could move in. A donor later agreed to help pay the initial rent.

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Anti-LGBTQ bill carries harsh penalties, including death

Last month, the Ugandan Parliament passed the Anti-Homosexuality Act, which, if signed, would become "one of the most extreme anti-LGBTQI+ laws in the world," the Biden administration said.

Officials with the United Nations Human Rights Office have condemned the legislation, saying it would be an "egregious violation of human rights" if signed into law. They noted that the legislation was approved "after years of state-instigated and perpetuated discrimination and violence on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity."

Story continues

The Ugandan legislation also comes at a time when, according to the American Civil Liberties Union, state legislators in a majority of U.S. states have introduced at least 385 anti-LGBTQ bills.

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The weekend I interviewed Mukiibi in Entebbe, President Yoweri Museveni had been in the city, urging members of Parliament from more than 20 African countries to reject the promotion of homosexuality and save the world from this degeneration and decadence.

At the two-day, interparliamentary conference, numerous attendees applauded Museveni on the hard stance Uganda is taking on homosexuality.

If Museveni signs the bill into law, as many expect him to do soon, according to the Ugandan Parliament website:

Engaging in aggravated homosexuality will result in the death penalty.

Anyone convicted of committing the offence of homosexuality would be sentenced to life in prison; any attempt would get seven years.

Anyone engaging in acts of homosexuality could get 20 years in jail.

"A child convicted of the act of homosexuality" would face three years.

Those convicted of marrying someone of the same sex or facilitating a same-sex marriage is liable to be sentenced to 10 years.

An owner, occupier or manager of premises who knowingly allows the premises to be used for acts of homosexuality faces a 10-year sentence.

Additionally, those supporting or promoting homosexuality, including tourists, journalists and potentially lawyers, also face prosecution. So do family members, friends or anyone else who doesnt turn in those they suspect of homosexuality.

Museveni signed similar, though less harsh, anti-LGBTQ legislation into law in 2014, but it was nullified because Parliament didnt have a quorum. Parliament has ensured that wont be the case this time.

It's unfathomable how homosexuality, who a person is and how they express themselves, can generate such hatred and murderous desire. Yet I met Ugandan girls as young as 13 with babies fathered by adult men, either by force or seduction, and these heterosexual men faced no criminal charges.

As the new bill awaits Museveni's signature, LGBTQ Ugandans served by the Children of the Sun Foundation have been beaten on their way to a clinic. Mukiibi and residents have received threats of violence from neighbors and on WhatsApp. People have thrown stones at Mukiibis house, making him feel unsafe sleeping there.

Henry Mukiibi, founder of Children of the Sun Foundation, in Entebbe, Uganda, says the foundation has received threats of violence from neighbors and on WhatsApp. People have thrown stones at Mukiibis house, making him feel unsafe sleeping there.

In January, a leaked report from the Uganda NGO Bureau contained a list of nongovernmental organizations suspected of promoting LGBTIQ activities in the country. Children of the Sun Foundation was listed in the report.

It's not the first time shelter residents have been threatened, beaten

Mukiibi said he started the foundation because he saw LGBTQ community members were discriminated against in government facilities and didn't have access to services.

"I think my calling is to help vulnerable people who are like me," said Mukiibi, who is bisexual. "I continue because there are very many people who need support, and there is nowhere they can get it."

He and the people he has tried to help have paid a steep price for his activism  or rather, for simply being gay.

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On March 29, 2020, Mukiibi received a concerning call. Henry, we've been raided, the foundation's shelter administrator said, by police, army, local council and the local defense unit.

Mukiibi thought he would talk to the officials and get those from the shelter released. But when he arrived at the shelter, he saw the residents had been beaten. And when authorities discovered he was the boss, they arrested him along with the others.

I asked them, Why?  Mukiibi said. He was told, Because of sodomy.

The police looked for proof of sodomy. Some of the members were taken behind the house for anal tests, Mukiibi said. The tests were purportedly done to identify residents who had had sex. They were not doctors. They had no uniforms. We don't know whether these people were professionals.

The gates to the shelter were opened, and bystanders were encouraged to come in and "look at these homosexuals," take photos and identify them on social media. Mukiibi said a police officer told him, "I am going to order these people to do mob justice on you."

We were tied as slaves and then were ordered to walk, he said. We term it as a shameful walk from the shelter to the police station. People spat on them. They threw stones. They called them horrible names.

Mukiibi's shame increased as his wife, children, in-laws and family saw news coverage of what happened. Before that, he had hidden his bisexuality.

Harassed, tortured and unlawfully kept in prison for 50 days

Mukiibi and 19 people from the shelter were taken to Kitalya Prison. Unable to prove sodomy, officials charged them with defying presidential directives under COVID-19.

One day, Mukiibi saw a warden beating his group. Fearing theyd be killed, he pleaded with a different warden, one who had previously helped him, to save them. He told me, Henry, right now, I can only save you. He hid Mukiibi under the bed in the prison hospital, where Mukiibi endured hearing the screams and cries of his shelter's residents for several hours.

Opinion alerts: Get columns from your favorite columnists + expert analysis on top issues, delivered straight to your device through the USA TODAY app. Don't have the app? Download it for free from your app store.

Back in the ward, Mukiibi learned his group had been restrained and beaten with wire. Some were still crying. Some were bloody. Noticing a trans woman was not sitting down, he asked why.

After beating her, they ordered a piece of firewood, Mukiibi said. They made her undress, and the warden got a piece of wood, lit it and put it under her private parts. After seeing them being beaten, I gained strength that, even now, if I die its OK. I've seen it all.

Mukiibi choked up and a tear fell from his eye as he told me about the torture.

Lawyers representing the foundation seemingly worked magic. The charges were dismissed. The lawyers sued the government on behalf of Mukiibi and the 19 residents and won. They each were awarded about $1,300 in U.S. dollars  which is more than many Ugandans, especially in rural areas, make in a year. But Mukiibi said they have yet to receive the money.

Mukiibi, Ssenabulya and the Ugandan LGBTQ community need help

Mukiibi and Charles Ssenabulya, the foundation's programs manager, want their voices  and whats happening in Uganda  to be heard. They want the president not to sign the bill into law.

That's why we are always more than willing to share our stories with the media, Ssenabulya said. Because you may not know who sees it and where it will reach and what impact could result back to the country.

Rachelle Chase is an author and an opinion columnist for the Des Moines Register.

He hopes that someone who reads this column and other coverage of the anti-LGBTQ legislation could influence Museveni not to sign the bill. He also wants other countries, like the United States, to eliminate restrictions that prevent LGBTQ Ugandans from fleeing for their lives to seek asylum.

Most important, they want LGBTQ Ugandans to have the freedom to safely be themselves.

If somebody steals something from a friend, it hurts some person after stealing, Mukiibi said, but in having sex with my boyfriend, who is hurting?

For information on how to help, contact Mukiibi at cosf.uganda@gmail.com or info@cosfuganda.ug

Rachelle Chase is an author and an opinion columnist for the Des Moines Register. Follow Rachelle at facebook.com/rachelle.chase.author or email her at rchase@registermedia.com

You can read diverse opinions from our Board of Contributors and other writers on the Opinion front page, on Twitter @usatodayopinion and in our daily Opinion newsletter. To respond to a column, submit a comment to letters@usatoday.com.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: LGBTQ Ugandans fear harsh anti-gay bill criminalizing their existence
Missouri state Rep. Maggie Nurrenbern has been sounding the alarm for years over the states loose gun laws and in February introduced a bill limiting the scope of Missouris stand your ground law. The bill went nowhere.

Over the weekend, Nurrenbern, who is white, found herself explaining to her adopted 9-year-old son, who is Black, the shooting of Ralph Yarl  a Black 16-year-old Kansas City student who is alleged to have been shot twice by a white homeowner in the Northland after ringing the doorbell of a residence while looking for his brothers.

I think we now have a shoot first, ask later policy in this state, or at least that is what people have interpreted it to be, said Nurrenbern, a Democrat who represents a swath of the Northland.

And now, she said, we have a young boy who is fighting for his life because of what we have perpetuated by our lax gun laws.

Anger has been building in the wake of the shooting, in part because of a sense among Democrats, gun control activists and some residents that the states gun laws have contributed to an atmosphere where residents feel too comfortable pulling the trigger. Republicans, who hold supermajorities in the Missouri House and Senate, signaled they have no plans to narrow the states gun laws and voiced confidence in the justice system  a local prosecutor announced charges late Monday.

These shoot first laws, stand your ground laws  theyre harmful and theyre dangerous policies that give people a license to kill, said Carthesa Dillard, a volunteer with the Missouri chapter of Moms Demand Action whose 19-year-old son was shot and killed in 2017 and 18-year-old brother was shot and killed in 2014.

Asked Sunday whether any self-defense laws may apply in the Clay County shooting, Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves said only thats a potential. Attorneys have cast doubt on whether the states self-defense laws would apply, but it would be up to the shooter to raise the defense.

Story continues

You cant just shoot people who come to your door, Missouri criminal defense attorney Kevin Jamison told the Star on Monday.

Clay County Prosecuting Attorney Zachary Thompson said Monday evening charges have been filed against Andrew D. Lester, an 84-year-old white man, over the shooting. Speaking at a news conference, Thompson said Lester was not yet in custody.

Thompson said Lester could face life in prison if convicted. He said there was a racial component to the shooting.

During an interview at Kansas City police headquarters, Lester allegedly said he thought Yarl was attempting to break into the house, according to charging documents. A detective, summarizing Lesters comments, wrote that Lester believed he was protecting himself from a physical confrontation and could not take the chance of the male coming in.

Missouri has a robust self-defense law  parts of which are referred to as both the castle doctrine and stand your ground  that give people wide latitude to use deadly force if they reasonably believe they are about to be attacked. Lawmakers passed Missouris original castle doctrine law in 2007, allowing homeowners to defend themselves in their own homes without first trying to retreat.

In 2016 the Republican-controlled Missouri General Assembly, overriding the veto of then-Gov. Jay Nixon, a Democrat, approved what is commonly called the states stand your ground law, which allows individuals to use force in self-defense without retreating in any location where they have the right to be.

Missouri passed a stand your ground law following the 2012 death of Trayvon Martin, a Black teen who was shot and killed by George Zimmerman in Florida. Zimmerman was charged with murder but acquitted after claiming self-defense. Missouri is one of at least 28 states, including Kansas, with some form of a stand your ground law, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

A 2022 study conducted by researchers at Oxford University, the University of Pennsylvania and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, found that Missouris gun homicide rate increased significantly after the states stand your ground law was enacted. States with stand your ground laws like Missouri, Alabama, Florida and Georgia, saw increases in homicide rates range from 16.2 to 33.5%, according to the study.

Ultimately, this tragic incident underscores why shoot first, ask questions later policies like so-called stand your ground laws do far more harm than good. These laws breed a society of violence and fear while providing cover for those who harm, maim and kill others, state Rep. Marlene Terry, a St. Louis Democrat who chairs the Missouri Legislative Black Caucus, said in a statement.

Missouri lawmakers have loosened gun laws

Republican lawmakers are offering few indications they plan to reassess Missouris self-defense laws following the shooting of Yarl, even as Democrats call for changes. A spokeswoman for Missouri Gov. Mike Parson, a Republican, didnt respond Monday to a request for comment.

In the last couple years, Republican legislators have offered bills that would create the presumption that individuals who claim to have used force in self-defense believed force was necessary. These bills would make prosecuting individuals who claim self-defense so difficult that opponents, including prosecutors, have denounced the measures as the Make Murder Legal Act.

Two measures have been filed this year, but neither has received a hearing. State Rep. Ben Baker, a Neosho Republican who has filed one of the bills, said that while Yarls shooting was tragic, he doesnt support efforts to water down the stand your ground law.

Baker framed his bill as a way to strengthen the law, preventing long, drawn-out trials where defendants must prove that they acted in self-defense.

It seems as though someone reacted prematurely  not knowing and not investigating what the situation wasits a terrible situation where people reacted in such a way, Baker said, referring to Yarls shooting. But I dont think that negates the purpose and, you know, the value of our stand your ground law for law-abiding citizens either. People make mistakes in a lot of different ways.

Missouri House Majority Leader Jonathan Patterson, a Lees Summit Republican, said the shooting of Yarl is a tragedy.

I think we need to get all of the facts and let the justice system do its work, Patterson said in a statement.

Missouri Republicans have consistently pushed to loosen gun laws in recent years.

In 2021, Parson signed into the law the Second Amendment Preservation Act, which declared certain federal gun laws invalid if they didnt have equivalent in state law. A federal judge found the law unconstitutional earlier this year, but Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey, a Republican, plans to appeal.

Lawmakers removed requirements that individuals have permits to carry concealed weapons in 2016, in addition to approving the stand your ground law. Two years earlier, lawmakers overrode Nixons veto to lower the minimum wage to have a concealed weapon from 21 to 19.

Unfortunately, the reaction from Republicans in the Legislature to horrific shootings has been to make Missouri more dangerous for kids and families, state Sen. Lauren Arthur, a Kansas City Democrat whose district includes the shooting site, said in a statement.

At Arthurs request, the Missouri Senate held a moment of silence for Yarl on Monday.

Even right now, there is legislation pending in the Missouri House that prosecutors have dubbed the Make Murder Legal Act because it removes the requirement that a shooter present a claim of self-defense, Arthur said.

State Rep. Josh Hurlbert, a Smithville Republican whose district includes the site of the shooting, said in a text message that he was praying for Ralph and his family. I fully trust the KCPD and the Clay County Prosecuting Attorneys Office to investigate and review the facts of the case and take any appropriate action, he said.

Yarls family and police have said he was asked by a parent to pick up his brothers from an address on 115th Terrace. Instead he went to a residence in the 1100 block of 115th Street, where he was shot.

More than 200 people marched through the Northland on Sunday demanding justice for Yarl. Nurrenbern, the state legislator, said she asked her son whether he wanted to go to the march.

He didnt. He just wants to be a kid, Nurrenbern said. The beauty about kids is they want their innocence and they should have their innocence.

The Stars Anna Spoerre, Andrea Klick and Kynala Phillips contributed reporting.
BEIRUT, April 18 (Xinhua) -- The Lebanese government on Tuesday approved four additional monthly salaries for public sector employees, in addition to the two previous rises approved in Sept. 2022, the National News Agency reported.

Public sector employees will start receiving seven salaries per month two months later. They are requested to complete a minimum of 14 working days per month to be eligible for the wage increase.

They are only requested to attend 14 working days as the government cannot afford to pay the high cost of their daily transport to work.

Meanwhile, the transportation allowance for public sector employees was set at 450,000 Lebanese pounds (about 3 U.S. dollars) per day, provided attendance is at most 18 days per month.

The cabinet also approved three additional salaries for retired public sector employees in addition to the two pay increases approved in Sept. 2022, which adds up to a total of six salaries.

The Lebanese cabinet convened on Tuesday to discuss the demands of public sector employees who demonstrated outside the Grand Serail, demanding wage rises amid the financial crisis.

Lebanon has been facing a steep financial crisis, causing a collapse of the local currency and plunging over 80 percent of the population into poverty.

Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati said the government approved wage increases according to available resources. "We understand the concerns of the demonstrators, and we affirm that we will spare no effort to follow up on their demands," he said.

Lebanon needs to elect a new president and form a new cabinet capable of implementing reforms to unlock aid from the International Monetary Fund and lead the country onto the path of recovery. 
Speak like your audience and be relatable to your audience, says Dan Kelsall

Social media is where we project a version of ourselves. And a pensive Dan Kelsall is nothing like his rowdy character on LinkedIn, the social media platform famously tagged "Facebook for suits".

In the online world the co-founder of Manchester marketing firm Offended makes sure his business lives up to its name. His posts stick out for the prevalence of profanity and no holds barred humour.

Offended specialises in guerrilla marketing, turning the world of corporate messaging and polished branding upside down. As the irreverent Mr Kelsall puts it: "We don't just get our own ads banned, we get ads banned for our clients too."

With 900 million of the world's professionals registering their personal CV and career attainments on the site, LinkedIn has become a valuable resource for head-hunters and human resources departments.

But over the last three years or so, this once staid community billboard of career updates and business launches has seen a change in tone.

Many posts have become more personal, featuring the emotional backstories of its members with accounts of childhood influences and admissions of failings and frailties.

This is a far cry from the hard-sell approach beloved of many corporate players and not everyone is happy. Critics murmur that these posts are more suited to the weekend musings of Facebook or the raucous tone of Twitter.

So what has triggered this change? According to Mr Kelsall, boredom with corporate marketing is one culprit.

It's hard to imagine, but Mr Kelsall once worked as a copywriter for a tax software firm, producing "some of the driest things I've written". He may not have enjoyed this time, but it did give him an insight into what pulls in readers.

"Consumers are less and less trusting of big brands. People are tired of boring marketing.

"The skill is to speak like your audience and be relatable to your audience. I've been on LinkedIn for seven years and I've got 66,000 followers. That's a really engaged audience."

Story continues

Working from home during the pandemic brought home life into contact with work

Parry Headrick founded Massachusetts public relations business Crackle. He attributes his entire client base to introductions via LinkedIn. There his followers learn about his penurious childhood and his own children's lives.

It's not to everyone's taste, though. One LinkedIn user responded to his disclosures with: "Nice story. It doesn't belong on LinkedIn."

Mr Headrick disagrees. "Engagement is about telling a compelling story. Your parents didn't read you a press release at bedtime, they read you stories. I try to give an insight into who I am if you work with me."

He is scathing about the effort businesses put into "company pages on LinkedIn that get no engagement", pointing out that human tales work. "It's the personal element that engenders trust."

Mr Headrick sees his personal pronouncements as "part of a broader shift away from corporate speak".

So what changed to make businesses so informal? Azadeh Williams thinks she knows.

Speaking from the Sydney offices of her media and marketing company, AZK Media, she explains why she shares updates about her six-year-old daughter. "I was a journalist for 20 years and I can spot marketing rigmarole and a contrived script. You have to be your crude, authentic self to attract your audience."

She wouldn't have posted this material a few years ago, but with the pandemic Zoom meetings intruded into the domestic space. This has changed everything. "Before Covid families didn't exist for your work colleagues. Now they've seen the families and it makes us more interesting."

Covid changed LinkedIn, according to Azadeh Williams

She believes that while LinkedIn has evolved from being the home of CVs, many users retain the mindset that it's just a digital job interview.

Douglas Rode runs recruitment giant Page Group in the UK and Ireland. As LinkedIn is such an important tool in his world how does he view its new incarnation? "Even five years ago people didn't open up so much. Now there's greater awareness of people's vulnerabilities such as mental health and LinkedIn has magnified this."

As a job-hunting expert would he advise someone to bare their soul there? His response is very qualified. "It's a matter of individual choice. You are putting yourself out there so a future employer can see you. You're trying to get a balance and you want to sound human, not generic or automated."

Others are more pointed. Tom Skinner, of London marketing agency Go Up, fears LinkedIn's new emotional tone is merely a symptom of celebrity culture and "a society that celebrates people who can self-publicise above all else".

LinkedIn has a 200-strong team working on stories primed to attract attention and involvement, all grist to the mill of recruiting companies that pay it for the right to scour the CVs of its members.

Dan Roth says LinkedIn does not encourage more personal posts

Dan Roth, Editor in Chief at LinkedIn, denies cultivating controversy to pull in readers. "We use algorithms to determine the right content for you but we do not steer people in one direction."

He too credits the pandemic with the shift in attitudes. "People found they got remarkable feedback when they talked about their mental health." He sets great store by LinkedIn users being identifiable in contrast to anonymous contributions on Twitter. Yet despite this public profile many members are unaware of how cringeworthy their stories can be.

More technology of business:

Braden Wallake rushed to LinkedIn when he made two staff at his Ohio company redundant in August 2022, boasting of how "vulnerable" he felt when making this decision. He even adorned the post with a tearful selfie.

The first response to his post was a single word. "Muppet."

Furthermore, he was rewarded with the online title, The Crying CEO, and became the poster boy for what behavioural insights expert Helen Jambunathan calls the "LinkedIn cringe".

Ms Jambunathan says LinkedIn's algorithms reward posts that provoke engagement, even if this dilutes its recruitment industry origins. "LinkedIn is becoming more personal and generalised, and less about 'work' as we know it."

This trend comes from the top. Research group Kekst CNC analysed the LinkedIn profiles of chief executives across the UK, US, Germany and Sweden, noting that 77% of them post personal content.

Maybe the "Facebook for suits" is fine with its new knockabout tone. And the louder the criticism, the more people listen.

Back in Manchester Mr Kelsall is relaxed about making the odd enemy. "Sometimes you need detractors as much as you need fans."
The third week of Lori Vallow Daybells criminal trial started Tuesday morning.

Vallow Daybell, a 49-year-old Rexbug mother, and her husband, Chad Daybell, are charged with the first-degree murders of her two children  7-year-old Joshua Jaxon JJ Vallow and 16-year-old Tylee Ryan.

She is also accused of conspiring to murder the children and Chad Daybells then-wife, Tammy Daybell. Vallow Daybell faces a felony charge in Arizona as well for allegedly conspiring to kill her fourth husband, Charles Vallow.

Chad Daybell  whose trial date hasnt been set  also faces a first-degree murder charge in Tammy Daybells death.

The 18-person jury last week heard from eight witnesses, including Vallow Daybells brother Alex Coxs widow Zulema Pastenes, who testified Friday for roughly four hours. Vallow Daybells defense attorney John Thomas wrapped up his cross-examination Tuesday morning.

Pastenes told the courtroom about the Daybells religious beliefs and how she participated in castings with Vallow Daybell, where they would cast out dark spirits from certain peoples bodies.

READ MORE: 5 key highlights from witness testimony in Lori Vallow Daybells jury trial

1 p.m.  Vallow Daybells brother made 46 gun-related purchases

Vallow Daybell, along with Tylee and JJ, moved to Idaho around Sept. 1, 2019, Rexburg Det. Chuck Kunsaitis said during his testimony Thursday. He was able to confirm this information by looking at the familys financial records, which showed their travels northwest from Arizona to Idaho.

Tylee was last seen roughly a week later on Sept. 9, 2019.

Kunsaitis said that after early September, Tylees bank account was the opposite of what her spending habits were. He said that Tylee typically purchased items in person, and that her account was very active but once they were in Idaho, the purchases were made mainly online.

Kunsaitis also said that by Oct. 20, 2019, all of the childrens monthly Social Security payments were going to a sole account that Vallow Daybell opened.

Story continues

Kunsaitis also reviewed a rental application for Vallow Daybells Rexburg apartment. In the application, which was presented in court, Vallow Daybell wrote that she was moving to Idaho because Tylee wanted to attend Brigham Young University-Idaho, but she was too young to live alone so Vallow Daybell was relocating with her.

Vallow Daybells eldest son, Colby Ryan, said in his testimony early Tuesday that Tylee had received her GED certification. East Idaho News reported that Tylee was never enrolled in any Idaho school.

In August 2019, Cox received a $21,000 loan, and at the same time, he began purchasing a large number of firearms and ammunition. Kunsaitis said Cox made 46 gun-related purchases between August and October.

The Rexburg Police Department, according to Det. Ray Hermosillo, located several firearms, silencers, ammunition, knives, duct tape and rope inside the garage of Vallow Daybells Rexburg apartment.

Court adjourned at 3:20 p.m., and the prosecution is expected to continue its direct examination of Kunsaitis Wednesday.

12:30 p.m.  Special agent outlines Vallow Daybells childrens Social Security benefits

Mark Saari, a special agent with the Social Security Administration, during his testimony Tuesday, outlined the amount of money that JJ, Tylee and Vallow Daybell were receiving from the government.

Prosecutors have also charged Vallow Daybell with grand theft for allegedly continuing to collect Social Security benefits on behalf of her children, according to the indictment.

Tylee had money, Lori wanted it, Tylees gone, Fremont County Prosecutor Lindsey Blake told the court during the prosecutions opening statement on Monday, April 10.

Tylee and JJ each received nearly $2,000 a month in what Saari referred to as survivor benefits. They both received the money because their fathers had died. Tylees biological father, Joseph Ryan, died in 2018 from natural causes, while JJs father, Charles Vallow, was shot and killed in July 2019.

Vallow Daybell also received nearly $2,000 from Social Security benefits from Charles Vallows death to help support her children.

Saari said during his testimony that the bank account in which Tylees survivor benefits were being deposited changed on Aug. 20, 2019. It changed from a JP Morgan account to a Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria, also known as BBVA, account.

Tylee was last seen on Sept. 9, 2019.

Saari said that if a child dies, moves or is no longer under a parent or guardians care, the Social Security Administration needs to be notified. He added that they also need to be notified when someone gets remarried.

When asked if Vallow Daybell ever notified the agency, Saari said she didnt.

11 a.m.   Y ou murdered my siblings. Vallow Daybells son accuses mother in recording





An explosive recorded video call between Ryan and Vallow Daybell was played in court Tuesday. The call occurred in August 2020  less than two months after police had located the remains of Tylee and JJ on Chad Daybells property.

You murdered my siblings, Ryan told his mother in the recording. Audible gasps were heard in both the courtroom and overflow rooms as spectators listened to the recording.

I didnt, Lori responded. Im sorry that you feel that way.

You didnt do anything, right? Ryan said. Mom, I prayed for you in my worst moments, I prayed for my siblings who you swore to me were OK.

Ryan later in the recording told Vallow Daybell that God will convict people who acted on his behalf in pure blasphemy. The comment caused Vallow Daybell to begin laughing, which seemed to enrage Ryan.

He questioned his mother repeatedly in response, saying, Youre laughing?!

Vallow Daybell then told Ryan that he can judge her because the whole world already is, and that he wasnt there and doesnt know what happened to Tylee and JJ.

They love me and they are fine and they know the truth, Vallow Daybell said about the children.

But Ryan said it doesnt matter what happened if Tylee and JJ were buried in your new husbands background. He later told his mother that his little dead siblings are the ones who needed protecting and that Vallow Daybell had ripped out his heart.

Everyone is gone except for you and youre in jail because of it, Ryan said.

Ryan repeatedly asked his mother throughout the video call whether her actions were done in Jesus name.

You can tell me right now that Jesus Christ  the savior of the world  is on your side right now? Ryan asked his mother.

I can tell you that, Vallow Daybell responded.

10:30 a.m.  Who taught you that God is good?

Jim Archibald, one of Vallow Daybells defense attorneys asked Ryan nearly a dozen yes or no questions about Vallow Daybells religious beliefs during cross-examination.

During the trial last week, two of Vallow Daybells former friends  Melaine Gibb and Zulema Pastenes  testified about the Daybells religious fringe religious beliefs, specifically that the Daybells believed dark spirits or zombies could inhabit a persons body.

The Daybells, who were members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, had extremist beliefs the world was going to end in July 2020, and that they were a part of the 144,000 people who, according to the Book of Revelations, would be saved during the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.

Did she teach you about zombies? Archibald asked Ryan.

No, Ryan responded.

Archibald asked Ryan some form of this question several times, asking if Vallow Daybell ever taught or mentioned reincarnation, evil spirits, the 144,000 or other beliefs that former friends had testified the Daybells believed. He responded to almost every question no.

Who taught you that God is good? Archibald asked Ryan.

The church and my mom, Ryan responded.

9:45 a.m.  Vallow Daybells eldest son called to the witness stand

The prosecution briefly called Ryan, to the witness stand Tuesday.

He testified that Vallow Daybell told him that Charles Vallow died from a heart attack and it wasnt until he saw Cox later that July night that he learned Cox shot and killed Charles Vallow.

Ryan also testified that on Nov. 27, 2019, Arizona authorities contacted him and asked if he knew anything about Tylee and JJs whereabouts. He said that Vallow Daybell never told him where she was moving when she left Phoenix, but that she was moving somewhere cold.

It was dangerous for her to tell anyone where she was going, Ryan said, recalling what Vallow Daybell had told him.

Ryan added that he was concerned about Tylee before police reached out to him because of the way Tylee had been texting him and that he received texts from Tylee until late September 2019.

Tylee was last seen on Sept. 9, 2019.

Vallow Daybells defense team is expected to begin cross-examination.
Ever heard of the warranty of habitability?

It applies to renters in Whatcom County  and across Washington state  who may be living in substandard housing.

The warranty of habitability is a legal requirement that ensures renters are guaranteed a safe place to live.

The law, RCW 59.18.060, states that landlords must maintain the living space to substantially comply with any applicable code, statute, ordinance, or regulation governing their maintenance or operation.

The law varies slightly depending on whether the unit is a single-family residence or a multi-family complex.

But, generally, it states that landlords must keep up their properties by:

 Maintaining structural integrity.

 Supplying adequate locking systems and keys.

 Maintaining weather-tight conditions.

 Reasonably mitigating infestations.

 Maintaining all electrical, plumbing and heating systems.

 Arranging for reasonable removal of waste.

 Providing facilities adequate to supply heat, water and hot water.

 Equipping the unit with smoke detection devices.

 Providing tenants with information about the risks of mold exposure and how to minimize mold growth.

So what does this mean for renters?

If a landlord doesnt provide these things or make necessary fixes, a renter may be entitled to receive a partial or full rent reduction during the period of time the home was uninhabitable.

It is not recommended that renters withhold rent payments, according to the nonprofit Northwest Justice Project, which provides free civil legal services to low-income people in Washington.

However, if a renter believes the needed repairs are bad enough, they can sue their landlord for already paid rent and future rent.

These are things renters can use to prove landlords have not maintained habitability, according to Northwest Justice Project:

 Housing code inspectors reports and testimony.

 Photos.

 A witness to testify about local rental values and what the rental unit is actually worth with the defects.

 Testimony from someone with experience in property valuation such as a building inspector, housing authority employee or real estate agent.

Do you have a story to tell about renting, buying or building Whatcom County housing? Reporters Rachel Showalter and Robert Mittendorf invite your comments at newsroom@bellinghamherald.com.
JJ Vallow and Tylee Ryan; Tammy Daybell Center for Missing & Exploited Children, Facebook / Via Facebook: photo

Lori Vallow Daybell, widely known as the Doomsday Mom for her extreme religious beliefs, is currently on trial for the killings of her two children, 16-year-old Tylee Ryan and 7-year-old Joshua Jaxon JJ Vallow, and Tammy Daybell, the former wife of her husband, Chad Daybell. (Chad is scheduled to be tried separately for the same crimes later this year.) Lori is also charged with conspiracy to commit murder in the July 11, 2019, fatal shooting of her previous husband, Charles Vallow, in Arizona.

Opening statements began April 10, and each days testimony so far has provided shocking details about the childrens killings and their remains, Lori and Chads claim that she was a goddess and he a prophet, and the vast web of death and deceit surrounding them. Fremont County, Idaho, prosecutor Lindsey Blake told jurors that at its core, the case was about three things:  money, power, and sex . Lori and Chad used their fanaticism to justify their greed and desire to marry each other, the prosecutor said, getting rid of their then-spouses and Loris youngest children after claiming they were possessed by demons that needed to be cast out.

In addition to the three killings for which Lori is currently being prosecuted, two other men close to Lori died in 2019 at the prime of their lives, and a third relative survived an alleged attempt to fatally shoot him.

The judge has refused requests to livestream the trial, but recorded audio has been released publicly at the end of each day's testimony. Warning: The details about the childrens remains are graphic and disturbing.

Finding the childrens bodies

Rexburg, Idaho, Police Detective Ray Hermosillo provided the most emotional and graphic testimony of the trial so far on April 11, when he described finding the remains of JJ and Tylee on Chad Daybells Idaho property on June 9, 2020, after a monthslong nationwide search. As the gruesome photos of their remains were shown and discussed in court, JJs grandfather Larry Woodcock openly sobbed in the galley, and Lori, usually animated and cheerful, slumped in her chair, with her arms crossed and her head down , never looking at the photos , according to reporters in the courtroom. (The judge had earlier denied her request to be excused from court during this graphic testimony.)

Story continues

Police discovered JJs body first, Hermosillo said, buried near a pond beneath soil, rocks, and wood paneling. As soon as they removed the topsoil, Hermosillo said, there was a strong odor that, through my training, I knew was a decomposing body. The body was wrapped in black plastic, and the detective could see the crown of JJs head.

Tylees remains were found elsewhere in the property, in a pet cemetery near a fire pit. Unlike JJs body, which was mostly intact, Hermosillo said that at the second burial site they first found only clumps of rotted flesh, charred flesh,  a piece of broken charred bone sticking up through the dirt, [and] bone fragments in the soil. He testified that they also found a melted green bucket containing other remains, including organs. Underneath the melted bucket, they found the partial remains of a human skull as well as a jawbone and teeth. The smell of decomposition was so foul, Hermosillo said, that the investigators, who were digging on their hands and knees, had to take turns in painstakingly removing the remains and placing them on a tarp.

In this aerial photo, investigators search for human remains at Chad Daybell's residence on June 9. John Roark / AP

Chad Daybells speedy departure

Chad was home when police served the search warrant for his property, but then relocated to his daughters place, just catty-corner to his house. When JJs remains were removed from his gravesite, however, Chad took off at a high rate of speed, Hermosillo said; police caught up with him and took him into custody . Chad has remained behind bars ever since, awaiting his own trial for the killings of his previous wife and two stepchildren.

The childrens autopsies

Investigators finished excavating the burial sites on June 10, and on June 11 they met at the Ada County coroners office in Boise to witness the autopsies of the childrens remains, performed by medical examiner Garth Warren. Under a duct-taped black plastic bag, they saw JJ was wearing red pajamas and white socks. A smaller white plastic bag was wrapped around his head and sealed with more layers of duct tape, and even more tape directly covered his mouth  from jawline to jawline, Hermosillo testified. More duct tape was used to bind his wrists, arms, and feet, and he had visible bruising on his arms. A white-and-blue childs blanket was placed on top of him. Despite the decomposition and duct tape, Hermosillo said JJ was still easily identifiable, based on his hair and features, as the little boy we had been looking for for the past eight months.

JJ Vallow, Tylee Ryan, and Alex Cox at Yellowstone National Park on the last day Tylee was seen alive; JJ Vallow on the day he was last seen alive FBI, Ada County Court

Zulema Pastenes, Loris sister-in-law, later testified that Lori and Chad believed that there is a two-minute window after a demon has been cast out in which another can enter  but that this can be prevented by destroying the body through fire or water or binding it.

Hermosillo also testified about photos depicting the last evidence of proof of life for JJ and Tylee: Tylee on Sept. 8, 2019, in Yellowstone National Park, and JJ on Sept. 22, 2019, wearing red pajamas on a couch at Loris Rexburg apartment. (Lori had recently moved there from Arizona to be closer to Chad.) It was that night, Melanie Gibb testified, that she and her boyfriend, David Warwick, last saw JJ ; the couple were staying at Loris and saw Loris brother Alex Cox take his nephew up to bed. Gibb and Warwick left the next day.

Attempted shootings of Brandon Boudreaux and Tammy Daybell

It was yet another alleged act of violence within Vallow Daybells circle that led to Hermosillos involvement in the case: He was tracking a Jeep that Arizona authorities alleged was involved in the attempted murder of Brandon Boudreaux, the ex-husband of Lori's niece Melani Boudreaux. Brandon testified April 10 that his marriage crumbled after Melani became fervently religious and once spent $10,000 to store food for an impending apocalypse. Amid complicated custody arrangements with his children, someone driving a Jeep shot at him on Oct. 2, 2019. Police later confirmed that the Jeep was registered to Charles Vallow. (By that time, Vallow had been fatally shot by Alex, who claimed self-defense, on July 11, 2019.)

On Oct. 9, exactly a week after someone shot at Brandon in Arizona, a masked man fired several shots at Tammy Daybell in Rexburg, Idaho, but she was unhurt. Pastenes, Alexs wife, testified on Friday that the same day someone shot at Tammy, Chad was with Pastenes, Lori, Melani, and others  but not Alex  performing a casting ceremony to banish the evil spirit inhabiting Tammys body. Pastenes testified that Lori answered a phone call that made her scary mad, and afterward told her that that idiot can't do anything right on his own.

Tammy died 10 days later, on Oct. 19. On Nov. 5, Chad wed Lori on a beach on the Hawaiian island of Kauai.

At the time, authorities accepted Chad's account that Tammy, an active 49-year-old mother of five, had died naturally in her sleep. But prosecutors revealed in their opening arguments last week that an autopsy performed after her body was exhumed had determined her cause of death to be asphyxiation at the hands of another.

From left: JJ Vallow's grandparents Larry and Kay Woodcock, and Brandon Boudreaux attend the hearing for Lori Vallow Daybell on March 6, 2020, in Rexburg, Idaho. John Roark / AP

Theyre planning something: Charless warnings to Tammy and suspicions that he too was a target

Chandler, Arizona, Police Detective Nathan Duncan testified April 14 about a number of emails and messages Charles exchanged in the weeks leading up to his death, threatening to tell Tammy about Chads affair with Lori and condemning their dangerous religious beliefs. In one email he told Lori that he wanted full custody of their son, JJ, saying, I will not let him be a part of your apostasy.

Duncan testified that on the morning of July 11, the day Alex fatally shot him, Charles exchanged text messages with Adam Cox, Lori and Alexs other brother (Adam has said he did not subscribe to Loris  crazy beliefs ).

Al is here, Charles texted Adam, referring to Alex being at Loris house, where he was picking up JJ. They are planning something, Adam responded, and Charles said, Absolutely.

Their messages were exchanged between 7:35 and 7:37 a.m., Duncan testified. Alex shot Charles at around 7:49 a.m. but didnt call 911 until 8:32 a.m., police said in Loris indictment for conspiring to kill Charles.

Rexburg Police Department, Madison County Jail

Zombies, castings, and light versus dark

Loris friends Gibb and Pastenes testified about prayerlike castings used to cast out evil spirits from someone they considered to be dark or a zombie. Lori had told her that she and Chad had been chosen to lead the 144,000 faithful when Christ returned in the second coming, Gibb said.

Both Gibb and Pastenes testified that their group had performed castings on Charles. But Pastenes told the court that if those didnt work, Lori had joked to her, she could always put some pills in his water.

Gibb testified that among the numerous people Lori classified as dark were Tylee, JJ, JJs grandmother Kay Woodcock, Tammy, Loris dad, her other brother Adam, Brandon Boudreaux, and police.

Pastenes testified that she was surprised by her husband Alexs equanimity after shooting Charles. When she asked how he felt, he simply responded,  Zulema, he was a zombie .

The mortuary call

Jurors heard a strange recorded call Chad made to a mortuary on the night of Charless death in which he says he is looking to cremate his uncle, asks for a ballpark price to ship the cremains out of Arizona, and uses a different spelling for his last name (Dabal), first saying his first name is Chad and then subsequently John.

Charles Vallow, Lori Vallow's oldest son Colby Ryan, and Lori Vallow Netflix

Alexs blessing  and death

Prosecutors also played a recording of Chad blessing Alex on Nov. 24, 2019, about two weeks before Alexs death: I bless you with the knowledge that you will now move forward as a true warrior, not only through physical action but through spiritual power that will be bestowed on you. Lori can be heard on the recording as well, and the trio seem to be crying during the blessing.

The day after learning that Tammys body was going to be exhumed, Alex died in Gilbert, Arizona, at the age of 51. Although his death on Dec. 12 was attributed to natural causes, the timing was remarkable. His wife testified that after refusing to answer her question about whether he had anything to do with Tammys death, his last words were I think Im being their fall guy. Either Im a man of God or Im not.

BuzzFeed News

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More on Lori Vallow Daybell
The high-profile trial of doomsday cult mom Lori Vallow resumed in Boise, Idaho, on Tuesday following a one-day break on Monday.

Ms Vallow, 49, is charged with first-degree murder, conspiracy, and grand theft over the deaths of daughter Tylee Ryan, 16, and son Joshua JJ Vallow, seven.

Tylee and JJ were last seen alive in September 2019. Their bodies were found buried on Ms Vallows new husband Chad Daybells property in June 2020.

Ms Vallow is also charged with conspiracy to murder Mr Daybells first wife Tammy in October 2019.

She has pleaded not guilty in a dramatic case spanning multiple murders and unexplained deaths, in which jurors have heard testimony from Ms Vallows former friends concerning bizarre ritualist castings to rid people of dark spirits.

On Tuesday, Ms Vallows surviving son Colby Ryan told the court about text messages he received from his sisters phone in the weeks after her murder that felt like he was speaking with someone else.

The jury then heard him angrily confront his mother about the deaths of his siblings in a phone call to her in prison.

You ripped my heart out! he told her.

Key points

Timeline of doomsday cult moms mystery case

11:00 , Oliver O'Connell

Rachel Sharp has compiled a timeline of the tragic and bizarre case:

Timeline of the Lori Vallow Daybell case

Chad Daybell warned Lori Vallow of police search when arrested

08:30 , Oliver O'Connell

A jailhouse phone call captured the moment Chad Daybell warned cult mom Lori Vallow that police were closing in on the day that her childrens remains were discovered buried on his property.

Rachel Sharp has the story.

Story continues

Lori Vallow trial hears jailhouse call with Chad Daybell on day bodies found

Lori Vallow trial hears horror of her childrens murders

05:30 , Oliver O'Connell

Graphic photos shown at cult mom Lori Vallows murder trial revealed how her slain son JJ was still wearing his red pyjamas and a nighttime diaper when his remains were found buried in a shallow grave on Chad Daybells property in Rexburg, Idaho.

His sister Tylees remains were found nearby.

Rachel Sharp reports.

Lori Vallows son JJ was found buried in red pyjamas and diaper

Everything we know about the Lori Vallow Daybell doomsday cult murder trial

03:30 , Oliver O'Connell

Rachel Sharp delves into the deeply disturbing tale of suspected murders, unexplained deaths and apocalyptic cult beliefs about killing zombies which surrounds Lori Vallow and her doomsday author husband Chad Daybell.

What we know about the Lori Vallow Daybell doomsday cult murder trial

Vallows chilling response to question about missing daughter, 16, revealed

01:30 , Oliver O'Connell

A former friend of Lori Vallow has revealed the cult moms chilling response after being confronted about her missing teen daughter.

Ms Vallows trial is in its second week at the Ada County Courthouse in Boise, Idaho, almost three years after she was charged with killing her son Joshua JJ Vallow, seven, and daughter Tylee Ryan, 16, and conspiring to murder the first wife of her doomsday preacher husband Chad Daybell.

On Friday, Ms Vallows former friend and former fellow cult acolyte Zulema Pastenes told the court about the ritualistic castings that Ms Vallow and Mr Daybell performed to drive out demons from dark spirits.

Andrea Blanco reports.

Lori Vallows chilling response to question about missing Tylee revealed

Vallow trial hears emotional prison call with surviving son

Tuesday 18 April 2023 23:30 , Oliver O'Connell

On day six of testimony in the trial of cult mom Lori Vallow, the jury heard a recording of a phone call between the defendant and her eldest son from the early months of her incarceration.

Colby Ryan, Ms Vallows son from her second marriage, was called a witness for the prosecution. He is her only surviving child following the murders of daughter Tylee, 16, and adopted son JJ, 7, in September 2019.

In the emotional call between mother and son, Ms Vallow refused to switch on her camera, while Mr Ryan demanded to know whether Jesus had really told her to murder his siblings.

Read more:

Lori Vallow trial hears gut-wrenching prison call with surviving son Colby Ryan

Tuesday 18 April 2023 23:00 , Oliver O'Connell

Court adjourns for the day

Tuesday 18 April 2023 22:28 , Oliver O'Connell

Judge Boyce adjourns court for the day.

The trial will continue at 8.30am MT tomorrow.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 22:00 , Oliver O'Connell

A further document put into evidence is the rental application for the town home in Rexburg. Lori put her income as $5,000 per month (the total of all the Social Security benefits) and said her reason for moving was so her daughter could attend BYU-Idaho.

Lori put on the application that her reason for moving into the complex was her daughter had graduated high school and they were moving to Rexburg so Tylee could attend BYU-Idaho.  Nate Eaton (@NateNewsNow) April 18, 2023

Tuesday 18 April 2023 21:57 , Oliver O'Connell

Lori also shared a credit card with her brother Alex Cox.

In a March 2019 statement, there is an airfare for Tylee to go to Hawaii with a friend, and another for Chad Daybell to fly from Idaho Falls to Mesa.

Both Charles Vallow and Tammy Daybell were still alive at this point and married to Lori and Chad respectively.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 21:54 , Oliver O'Connell

The next exhibit is credit card statements for a joint account with Charles Vallow that Lori continued to use after his death.

Two major transactions are highlighted: a $3,000 payment to the local mortuary on 12 July and another on 20 July for an Allegiant Airlines flight from Provo to Arizona for Chad Daybell.

Mr Daybell was still married to Tammy at this point.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 21:43 , Oliver O'Connell

The next account shown to the court is a joint BBVA account for Tylee and Lori. There are statements from 19 August to 2019 through until January 2020.

After 1 September 2019, all transactions were conducted online with the exception of two purchases at Mexican restaurant Costa Vida in Rexburg on 17 September and another at the chains branch in Idaho Falls 7 October.

There are deposits from Loris account into this one which are then immediately Venmoed to Colby Ryan, her son. There are 29 such deposits of around $60. The Venmo transactions would occur on the same day as the deposit is made.

Prior to September 2019, almost all of Tylees purchases were in-person.

Court resumes after afternoon break

Tuesday 18 April 2023 21:33 , Oliver O'Connell

The jury is brought back in following the afternoon recess.

Det Kunsaitis is still on the stand for direct examination. As another account is brought up, the defence team asks for a sidebar with Judge Boyce.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 21:16 , Oliver O'Connell

The next account looked at is the BBVA Compass Bank account for Lori which was opened on 20 October 2018. All of the Social Security payments were redirected to it.

From August 2019 through January 2020 this is where payments to Tylee were deposited after her death.

From 18 September the payments for JJ began to be deposited in the same account. Det Kunsaitis says: Based on our investigation, JJ was killed five days later.

After a summary document is submitted as evidence court goes on its afternoon break.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 20:50 , Oliver O'Connell

The focus of the evidence presented to the jury is Tylees bank statements from January 2019 to October 2019. It is a heavily used account and each month she received her $1,859 from Social Security and made payments on her Jeep Wrangler.

In addition, much of her spending is at shopping malls, fast food restaurants, and convenience stores. Her final in-person purchase was on 1 September at a McDonalds in St George, Utah.

Her Social Security deposits ceased in July as they had been diverted to a different account.

The final transaction was on 20 September. She had $10.04 in the account and it was transferred to Lori, who had access to the account. Profile numbers assigned to account users show that it was Lori who made this transfer.

Last proof of life for Tylee was 8/9 September 2019.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 20:22 , Oliver O'Connell

A large number of exhibits are entered into evidence ahead of Det Kunsaitiss testimony he is asked to only refer to them if referenced during questioning.

Det Kunsaitis has worked as a police officer in Rexburg for 23 years. He has been a detective since 2011.

On 27 November 2019, he was aware Det Hermosillo was issuing search warrants for three different townhomes in Rexburg to locate JJ Vallow. He arrived in the afternoon to help with the warrants.

At Loris home, he found an invoice for Self Storage Plus sitting on a printer and so a further warrant was issued for the unit.

In addition, a PO Box belonging to Lori was located in Sugar City, Idaho. Inside was approximately 100 pieces of mail addressed to Lori, Chad, Alex, and the children, including letters from the Social Security Administration.

The manager of the apartment complex also said he had mail for them.

Much of it was bills and financial documents, so a list of financial institutions was drawn up associated with the family.

New witness: Det Chuck Kunsaitis, Rexburg PD

Tuesday 18 April 2023 20:01 , Oliver O'Connell

The next witness is Detective Chuck Kunsaitis of Rexburg Police Department.

Before he is brought in there is a brief sidebar after which a large folder of documents is placed on the witness stand by the prosecution.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 19:51 , Oliver O'Connell

In addition to the payments to the children, Lori also received Mother, child and care benefits.

Lori was eligible because she and Charles were married for 10 years.

She was paid $1,951 per month. These payments were also stopped in January 2020. Social security recipients have a duty to report any change in circumstances such as a child no longer being in their care or that the child has died.

Lori never reported the deaths of her children, her new marriage, or her change of address.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 19:48 , Oliver O'Connell

JJ also got benefits following the death of Charles Vallow, his adopted father.

He was paid $1,951 per month beginning on 18 September 2019 (Charles died on 11 July 2019).

These payments were also suspended in January 2020.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 19:47 , Oliver O'Connell

Tylee was receiving $1859.00 a month in 2019 into a JP Morgan account. That was then switched to a BBVA account on 20 August 2019.

Any change would have been flagged to Lori as her mother in an automated notice.

It reads: As you requested on August 20, 2019, we changed Tylee's direct deposit. We will send her payment to the new account you selected.

Social security payments for Tylee were suspended on 3 January 2020 due to the childrens whereabouts being unknown.

New witness: Mark Saari

Tuesday 18 April 2023 19:44 , Oliver O'Connell

The next new witness is Mark Saari, a special agent with the Social Security Administration who investigates fraud.

He became involved in the case in January 2020 when his office was contacted by the FBI in Arizona as part of the search for Tylee and JJ.

Mr Saari was asked to investigate whether the childrens benefits were being misused by Lori.

Court back in session

Tuesday 18 April 2023 19:42 , Oliver O'Connell

Judge Steven Boyce is back on the bench and the jury is brought back in.

Lori has been chatting with her attorneys though at times has looked a little more stoic than earlier having listened to the call before lunch.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 18:36 , Oliver O'Connell

Colbys testimony concludes and he is released from his subpoena.

He looks over at Lori for two seconds on his way out of the courtroom.

Judge Boyce calls lunch.

The trial will resume at 12.30pm MT with a new witness.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 18:34 , Oliver O'Connell

The highly emotional call ends abruptly: I pray every day no matter how mad I am at you, no matter how bad I want to hit your husband in the face with a shovel, I pray for you, I pray for him. You ripped my heart out, you ripped everyones heart out. I want to be in Idaho this week. You need to look me in my eye, Mom. Look me in my eye.

You ripped my heart out, you ripped everyone's heart out. I want to be in Idaho this week. You need to look me in my eye, Mom. Look me in my eye." Colby noted earlier that Lori's camera is turned off and the call ends.  Nate Eaton (@NateNewsNow) April 18, 2023

Tuesday 18 April 2023 18:32 , Oliver O'Connell

Colby tells his mother that Jesus will judge her for what she has done and she laughs.

She says that no one understands what happened but Tylee and JJ do.

They love me and they are fine and they know the truth and we are the only people that do.

Colby yells at his mother for saying that Jesus told her to do these things.

The kids are found buried in your new husbands backyard?

He confronts her about running away to Hawaii after the murders.

They were murdered and you walked away, Colby says.

Lori replies: That is not what happened.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 18:26 , Oliver O'Connell

The call is playing again.

Colby: I have prayed for you in my worst moments, I have prayed for my siblings who you swore to me were ok. I thought I could trust you. I thought that you were a completely different person.

Lori: Youve known me your whole life.

Colby: I dont know a murderous mother.

Later Colby confronts Lori about the text messages from Tylees phone:

You lied to me more times than I can count about this. To know they're gone and you knew and my phone being texted by my little sister who wasn't even alive. My brother was the sweetest kid and you say this is God's will for my whole family including my stepfather to be dead after everything that youd tried to tell me you can tell me right now that Jesus Christ, the Saviour of the World is on your side? You tell me that with all the conviction of your heart that Jesus Christ is on your side right now. Please.

Lori: I can tell you that.

Colby-I have pushed past everything to try and help you. You lied to me more times than I can count about this. To know they're gone and you knew and my phone being texted by my little sister who wasn't even alive. My brother was the sweetest kid and you say this is God's will  Pretty Lies & Alibis (@PrettyLiesAlibi) April 18, 2023

Tuesday 18 April 2023 18:21 , Oliver O'Connell

Colby is brought back into the courtroom because Judge Boyce wants him on the stand while the call is played to the jury.

Judge Boyce says that on hearing the beginning of the call he wants Colby on the witness stand.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 18:19 , Oliver O'Connell

For context, the call was made after the bodies of Tylee and JJ had been found on Chad Daybells property.

Before Judge Boyce called a sidebar, Colby said he had prayed for Lori and she said she didnt do anything.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 18:17 , Oliver O'Connell

The call is played but interrupted when Judge Boyce calls for a sidebar with attorneys.

Boyce interrupts the phone call and asks for a sidebar with attorneys.  Nate Eaton (@NateNewsNow) April 18, 2023

Tuesday 18 April 2023 18:16 , Oliver O'Connell

Wood now asks to admit and play a jailhouse phonecall between Colby and Lori.

Colby has left the room but he remains under subpoena so could be called back in if the defence has questions.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 18:15 , Oliver O'Connell

Colby only found out Lori was in Rexburg on 19 December 2019 when it was one the news.

He only found out his sister and brother were missing when the Gilbert PD showed up to talk to him.

When he was a teenager, he and Lori had a conversation about her life insurance and he was the only beneficiary, not Tylee or JJ.

Lori never asked him for money. but did ask Tylee.

There are no further questions and Colby is released from the stand but not from his subpoena meaning he might be called back.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 18:11 , Oliver O'Connell

Redirect from prosecutor Rob Wood begins.

Colby says his mother never asked him for money, just to help them move, and she has no control over his bank account.

She once gave him Tylees debit card to buy himself a birthday gift.

He was never invited to join any of her special church meetings or castings.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 18:03 , Oliver O'Connell

Archibald asks Colby if he loved his mother. He says yes. Archibald asks if his mom loved him. Colby responds: I think so.

He reads quotes from Colbys book back to him.

Who taught you God is good? asks Archibald.

Church and my mom, he said.

No further questions from the defence team.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 18:01 , Oliver O'Connell

Colby was not at home when Charles filed for divorce from Lori nor when they reconciled.

He says his relationship with Alex Cox was minimal.

He was crude and kind of funny and odd.

Colby saw Alex more after he got married and moved out of his mothers house in 2018.

Archibald asks Colby about the book he wrote: God Over Odds  and about how God got him through his life.

He is also asked about his appearance in the Netflix docuseries Sins Of Our Mother. Colby says he was not paid for that. In the show Colby says his mother changed after she met Chad Daybell and that prior to that she had spent her whole life protecting her kids.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 17:56 , Oliver O'Connell

At 17 Colby went to live with his uncle Uncle Adam in Kansas. He then moved back in with Lori and Charles and got his GED and went to a community college.

At 18 he went on an LDS mission for six weeks to Nampa, Idaho, and Lori was supportive.

He is asked if his mother taught him about Jesus and he says yes and confirms they would attend church.

Lori never taught him about multiple lives or creations, nor anything about him being anyone else in another life, castings, or zombies.

Colby says she did talk about vibrations and that they had the same vibration.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 17:52 , Oliver O'Connell

Colby describes his relationship with Charles as good and that he also had a good relationship with Tylee and JJ.

He tells the court that Tylee had pancreatitis and frequently needed hospital treatment.

JJ was diagnosed with autism and Colby says Lori cared for all of their needs growing up.

Colby says both he and Tylee struggled with a lack of self-worth and Lori encouraged him to do good things with his life.

Court resumes after morning break

Tuesday 18 April 2023 17:49 , Oliver O'Connell

Defence attorney Jim Archibald begins the cross-examination of Colby Ryan.

Questioning begins by establishing some biographical details  Colby is 27, has no relationship with his biological father, was raised by Lori and first stepfather Joe Ryan and second stepfather Charles Vallow  and then his relationship with his mother. We learn that she has only met one of Colbys children.

Colby is asked about his relationship with his first stepfather Joe and whether his childhood at that point was good or bad. He replies that it was bad.

He is asked if he was abused by his stepfather immediately sparking an objection from prosecutors.

The objection is sustained.

Colby is asked if Lori protected him and Tylee from Joe. He says yes, she moved them away.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 17:39 , Oliver O'Connell

Colby is reportedly refusing to look at his mother as he sits in the witness box and awaits cross-examination by her defence team.

Lori pulled several tissues from a box of Kleenex and appears to be crying or wiping her eyes. It's hard to see from my vantage point as her back is toward the gallery. Colby still has not looked at his mom for several minutes.  Nate Eaton (@NateNewsNow) April 18, 2023

Tuesday 18 April 2023 17:11 , Oliver O'Connell

On 27 November, Gilbert Police Department contacted Colby looking for Tylee and JJ.

He told them he too was concerned as texts between him and his sister had changed. Different language was being used and it didnt sound like how she would type  he felt he wasnt speaking with Tylee.

Colby says he had received money after September 2019 from two different accounts registered to his mother.

He was not aware of her location but knew she had moved from the Phoenix area. She had also told him that she was getting married again.

She just told me she was moving somewhere cold and it was dangerous for her to tell anybody where she had gone.

When he called at Thanksgiving the phone had been disconnected.

No further questions from the prosecution.

Judge Boyce calls the morning break.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 17:06 , Oliver O'Connell

Colby spoke to Lori that day, which was also the last day that Tylee was seen. They were in the Yellowstone National Park gift store and he could hear her over the phone in the background.

After Charless death, Lori had said she was taking control of Tylees money to cover bills while she looked for a new job.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 17:04 , Oliver O'Connell

A few weeks after Charless death, Lori told Colby she was not going to receive any money from his life insurance. They would speak about once a month about her finances and she said often told him that they were out of money.

Tylee got social security benefits from her deceased father, Joe Ryan. Occasionally, she would send him money by Venmo. He says Lori would send money to Tylee who would then send some on to Colby.

This changed on 8 September 2019 when he asked Tylee for money and she told him that she wasnt in control of her money and that Lori now was.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 16:59 , Oliver O'Connell

Shown photos of Tylee and JJ, he identifies them as his sister and little brother and appears emotional.

Asked who Charles Vallow was, he says that he was his stepfather for 13 years.

On the day Charles died, he tells the court that Lori called him at work in the afternoon and said he had had a heart attack and said nothing about him being shot.

He went to the house and was greeted at the door by Tylee. Alex was inside watching TV and had a bandage on from where he said Charles had hit him with the bat and that he had then shot Charles.

Loris demeanour that night was calm.

New witness: Colby Ryan

Tuesday 18 April 2023 16:54 , Oliver O'Connell

The next witness is Colby Ryan, Lori Vallows son from a previous marriage.

He is being questioned by prosecution attorney Rob Wood who asks how he knows the defendant.

Colby responds that she is his mother and does not look at her.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 16:52 , Oliver O'Connell

After some further questions about the castings, redirect concludes and Zulema is released from her subpoena and steps down from the witness stand.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 16:50 , Oliver O'Connell

Their influence over Alex was strong.

Zulema says: They told Alex he was the angel who had come to Saul before he became Paul and he was the one who spoke to him and made him blind so he would mend his ways and become a follower of Jesus Christ. They also told him he had been an angel before and he was an angel that had appeared to Joseph Smith. They told him he had been exalted in other creations with his wife Holly and he had been a very powerful warrior. He had unmasked Satan in another creation and that is the reason why Satan had so much animosity toward him.

Zulema says Alex quit his job and moved to Rexburg after Chad and Lori told him to do so. He left behind his belongings in Arizona.

Chad and Lori told him the only reason he came to earth at this time  his sole purpose was to protect Lori.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 16:46 , Oliver O'Connell

Prosecution attorney Rachel Smith begins redirect examination of Zulema after asking if she needs a minute.

Zulema says she is OK to proceed and is asked whether she tries to look for the good in people and to clarify some of the text conversations she had with Lori.

Lori often called Zulema a goddess and praised her ability to influence the elements.

She said that I was very special and my mission was the most important one. They were always looking out for me because my mission was the most important one.

Chad also told her and said she was a goddess of the earth with a special mission. Zulema says that repeatedly being told how special she was made her feel good and she really started to believe it.

She saw them do the same to Alex.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 16:40 , Oliver O'Connell

On the day Charles was murdered by Alex Cox  11 July 2019  Zulema says she was at the temple.

In a text from the day she says she was working on Hiplos, the evil demon inside of Charles.

While there she texted Lori saying she was told he will be taken as he is and that she does not know what that means, adding that she hopes this will end.

Lori was supposed to be with her but did not come.

Thomas asks about a spiritual experience she had in the temple at which she saw Heavenly Father, Heavenly Mother, Jesus, and her eternal husband.

Zulema says she doesnt recall that day.

Thomas says: You saw Heavenly Father, Heavenly Mother, and Jesus and you dont remember what happened?

After she thinks for a while, Thomas withdraws the question and concludes his cross-examination.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 16:31 , Oliver O'Connell

Thomas asks about the castings, specifically the one in which they were trying to get the demon Garrett out of Charles Vallow.

She explains she is unsure if the demon ever left Charles as Lori always had to ask Chad for confirmation of whether the demon was gone or not.

Zulema says she had faith that they were telling her the truth.

I personally did not have confirmation whether those evil spirits or demons were cast out. I trusted and believed what Lori and Chad were saying.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 16:29 , Oliver O'Connell

Zulema is asked about her weapon of light fire which she says she used to help heal others in castings.

She is then asked whether she had a portal in her home. She says she did not and never has. In a text message to Chad she asked him to help her make one so she can get answers.

Zulema does not recall this conversation.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 16:25 , Oliver O'Connell

Zulema tells the court that she was never asked to hurt anyone or do anything evil and thought that she was helping Chad and Lori to work toward something good to help get darkness out of the world and get rid of evil spirits.

She says she now realises that Chad and Lori were manipulative and evil, and their intentions were very evil.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 16:22 , Oliver O'Connell

In another text with Chad, she says she is feeling better about things. She asks him whether she has a calling and how she will know when to go to the temple when the callout happens.

A different text has Zulema saying that she has a yearning to go to the temple and leave the world behind and that God is telling her there is no time for anything else.

Chad says he knows she has a close relationship with the Saviour and that she will know when to gather and will be one of the first. Zulema says she got chills all over her body.

In reference to another text from December 2018, Zulema says Lori and Chad taught that when you have any kind of physical pain or any emotional suffering, it was an attack from the dark side and evil spirits.

She told Chad she was being attacked and he responded: Hi Zulema. I have captured and removed the evil spirits that were attacking you. I have removed the weapons and am healing the damage.

Thomas asks her if she thought this actually worked and she says that often she actually felt better afterward. In a subsequent text she reads out she tells Chad her shoulder is better.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 16:12 , Oliver O'Connell

Text messages between Zulema and Chad and Lori are entered as evidence.

In one she explains that her daughter is in Arizona and feels she is being abandoned if Zulema leaves. She asks Chad to look at who the daughter was in a past life and says that he understands the difficulty of the decision about moving to Rexburg.

Nevertheless, both Chad and Lori pushed her to move and Chad gives her a blessing telling her to do so.

She prayed and was told by the Lord that she would move there but not yet.

The couple continued to pressure her to move and it came up in every blessing they gave her.

Thomas says, "Yes or no - did you pray about it?" She says, "Yes." Thomas says, "And yes or no - the Lord told you eventually that you would go to Rexburg?" She says, "Yes." Then adds that Chad and Lori were pushing her to move to Rexburg "in every blessing they gave me."  Nate Eaton (@NateNewsNow) April 18, 2023

Tuesday 18 April 2023 16:06 , Oliver O'Connell

Zulema is asked about a statement she made that Alex would do anything for Lori. Thomas suggests that maybe that wasnt true and she didnt know him that well during their four-month relationship.

Zulema disagrees and tells the court that Alex would make decisions but still feel the need to ask Chad and Loris permission. She recalls her earlier testimony that Chad had given Alex a blessing telling him to move to Rexburg and that he would be a warrior. The next day Alex and Chad flew up there to check it out.

After they got married, Zulema told Alex she wouldnt live in Rexburg as her family and worker were in Arizona. As they discussed what to do, he said: Well, before I make any decisions I need to ask Chad and Lori what I should do.

She says he was looking for direction.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 16:01 , Oliver O'Connell

Asked about what trauma she has from that time, Zulema says that on 12 December she went to work and Alex was fine. When she came home he was on the bathroom floor and was rushed to the Emergency Room by paramedics, where he died.

Zulema is on the verge of tears as she recalls being asked permission to switch off the machines keeping Alex alive at the hospital.

Tuesday 18 April 2023 15:58 , Oliver O'Connell

Defence attorney John Thomas resumes cross-examination by asking Zulema about her relationship with Alex Cox, Lori Vallows brother.

She says they went on a few dates between August and Halloween 2019 when they had their first kiss. They would often speak on the phone about family, the scriptures, and other things as they got to know each other.

Just seven days after Halloween, on 7 November, Alex proposed to her when she came to Rexburg, Idaho, to visit him.

Alex was very clear that he was looking for a relationship and he wanted to get married.

He had told her as much during their first dinner and she was not surprised by the proposal.

He had told me he was looking for a ring and asked for my ring size. I was not completely surprised that it happened on that day.

A few weeks later at Thanksgiving, he drove down to Arizona with Melani (Loris niece) and stayed with Zulema through the weekend, and on 1 December they went to Las Vegas to get married.

Zulema says she cant remember the specific date on which they got married as there is so much trauma around that time that she would prefer to forget.

Court resumes

Tuesday 18 April 2023 15:44 , Oliver O'Connell

After a brief out-of-court meeting with both the defence and prosecution teams, Judge Steven Boyce is back on the bench.

Lori Vallow is shackled to the floor at the defence table.

Chad Daybells lawyer, John Prior, is present in court, as are family members of Charles Vallow and JJs biological grandparents Kay and Larry Woodcock.

Someone is removed from the courtroom for disrupting proceedings.

The jury is brought in.

Day 6 of testimony to resume shortly

Tuesday 18 April 2023 15:15 , Oliver O'Connell

Day six of testimony in the trial of Lori Vallow will resume shortly at the Ada County Courthouse in Boise, Idaho.

Zulema Pastenes, a former cult acolyte and former friend of Vallows, is back on the stand as cross-examination of her by defence attorney John Thomas continues.

Heres a recap of what Zulema told the court on Friday.

Lori Vallows chilling response to question about missing Tylee revealed

Everything we know bout the Lori Vallow doomsday cult murder trial

Tuesday 18 April 2023 14:48 , Oliver O'Connell

It looked every inch the fairytale wedding.

Dressed in white with pink flower garlands around their necks, the bride and groom couldnt have looked happier as they exchanged vows on a paradise beach in Hawaii.

Photos captured the apparently blissful day as they toasted their nuptials, embraced and she danced to him playing the guitar.

But, behind the photos, something much more disturbing was going on.

Her two children had not been seen alive in two months.

His wife of three decades  the mother of his five children  had died suddenly just two weeks earlier.

And her husband had been shot dead by her brother (who would also soon be dead) not long before.

In the three years since the November 2019 wedding of Lori Vallow and Chad Daybell, a deeply disturbing tale of suspected murders, unexplained deaths and apocalyptic cult beliefs about killing zombies has come to light.

Five people close to the couple have wound up dead.

And the couple are now on trial for murder.

What we know about the Lori Vallow Daybell doomsday cult murder trial

The doomsday cult explained:

Tuesday 18 April 2023 13:38 , Rachel Sharp

At the centre of the string of alleged murders and mystery deaths stands the couples bizarre doomsday cult.

Chad Daybell ran a publishing company that put out books about apocalyptic scenarios loosely based on the theology of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

LorisVallow followed his books for some time, before the pair finally met in person at a religious conference in Utah in October 2018.

At this point, investigators say their relationship became romantic.

And as their relationship grew more intense, so too did their apocalyptic beliefs.

Vallow claimed in divorce documents that Ms Vallow believed she was a god-like figure chosen to carry out the work of 144,000 believers.

Multiple friends cited in police reports say that the couple believed they could drive out evil spirits and seek revelations from beyond the spiritual veil.

Ms Vallow even believed she could teleport between Arizona and Hawaii, according to documents.

But  most chillingly  the couple allegedly believed that people, including JJ and Tylee, had become zombies.

They allegedly had a scoring system for ranking how far peoples souls had gone from good to evil.

The only way to then rid an individual of the zombies would be for them to die, according to documents.

Prosecutors believe that Ms Vallow and Mr Daybell used these beliefs to further their plots to kill JJ, Tylee and Tammy.

What we know about the Lori Vallow Daybell doomsday cult murder trial

Tuesday 18 April 2023 12:53 , Rachel Sharp

As cult mom Lori Vallow is finally on trial for the murders of her children JJ Vallow and Tylee Ryan, Rachel Sharpdelves into the deeply disturbing tale of suspected murders, unexplained deaths and apocalyptic cult beliefs about killing zombies which surrounds her and her doomsday author husband Chad Daybell:

What we know about the Lori Vallow Daybell doomsday cult murder trial

Lori Vallow trial to resume today

Tuesday 18 April 2023 12:24 , Rachel Sharp

The high-profile trial of cult momn Lori Vallow is set to resume in Boise, Idaho, today.

The court took a scheduled day off on Monday for an administrative day at Ada County Courthouse.

Testimony is now expected to resume at 8.30am local time.

Why are Vallow and Daybell being tried separately?

Tuesday 18 April 2023 11:45 , Oliver O'Connell

The decision to separate the cases comes on the heels of new DNA testing, which included all parties allegedly involved with the crime. The test results were returned too close to the 3 April trial date for both the defence attorneys to adequately review. The proximity of the results to the trial date, along with Ms Vallows refusal to waive her right to a speedy trial, forced Mr Boyce to separate the cases.

Mr Daybells case will be rescheduled, but Ms Vallows will continue as planned.

Lori Vallow to be tried separately from husband Chad Daybell over childrens murders

Lori Vallows chilling response to question about missing daughter

Tuesday 18 April 2023 08:45 , Oliver O'Connell

A former friend of Lori Vallow has revealed the cult moms chilling response after being confronted about her missing teen daughter.

Ms Vallows trial is in its second week at the Ada County Courthouse in Boise, Idaho, almost three years after she was charged with killing her son Joshua JJ Vallow, seven, and daughter Tylee Ryan, 16, and conspiring to murder the first wife of her doomsday preacher husband Chad Daybell.

On Friday, Ms Vallows former friend and former fellow cult acolyte Zulema Pastenes told the court about the ritualistic castings that Ms Vallow and Mr Daybell performed to drive out demons from dark spirits.

Testifying under oath for the prosecution, Ms Pastenes opened up about Ms Vallow and Mr Daybells cult beliefs and their rating system of light and dark for how they ranked the spirits of the people around them.

Lori Vallows chilling response to question about missing Tylee revealed

Everything we know bout the Lori Vallow doomsday cult murder trial

Tuesday 18 April 2023 04:45 , Oliver O'Connell

It looked every inch the fairytale wedding.

Dressed in white with pink flower garlands around their necks, the bride and groom couldnt have looked happier as they exchanged vows on a paradise beach in Hawaii.

Photos captured the apparently blissful day as they toasted their nuptials, embraced and she danced to him playing the guitar.

But, behind the photos, something much more disturbing was going on.

Her two children had not been seen alive in two months.

His wife of three decades  the mother of his five children  had died suddenly just two weeks earlier.

And her husband had been shot dead by her brother (who would also soon be dead) not long before.

In the three years since the November 2019 wedding of Lori Vallow and Chad Daybell, a deeply disturbing tale of suspected murders, unexplained deaths and apocalyptic cult beliefs about killing zombies has come to light.

Five people close to the couple have wound up dead.

And the couple are now charged with murder.

What we know about the Lori Vallow Daybell doomsday cult murder trial

Vallow confronted by best friend about JJ lies and relationship with Chad Daybell

Tuesday 18 April 2023 02:45 , Oliver O'Connell

A phone call between cult mom Lori Vallow and her former best friend was played in court during her ongoing trial for the murders of two of her children.

On Thursday, prosecutors played a phone conversation between Mr Daybell, Ms Vallow and her then-best friend Melanie Gibb, who was on the stand testifying for the state. In the early December 2019 call, which she recorded secretly, Ms Gibb delved into the couples bizarre cult beliefs and later confronted them for asking her to lie to the police about JJs whereabouts.

Andrea Blanco has the story.

Lori Vallow confronted by best friend about JJ lies in secret recording

Timeline of doomsday cult moms case

Tuesday 18 April 2023 00:45 , Oliver O'Connell

More than three years after her children were last seen alive, doomsday cult mom Lori Vallow is finally on trial for their murders.

Tylee Ryan, 16, and Joshua JJ Vallow, 8, vanished without a trace in September 2019, sparking a multi-state search while their mother appeared carefree  marrying her new husband Chad Daybell on a beach in Hawaii.

The childrens bodies were finally discovered nine months later buried in a pet cemetery on Mr Daybells property in Idaho.

Rachel Sharp reports.

Timeline of the Lori Vallow Daybell case

Chad Daybell warned Lori Vallow of police searching his property in jailhouse phone call

Monday 17 April 2023 22:45 , Oliver O'Connell

A jailhouse phone call captured the moment Chad Daybell warned cult mom Lori Vallow that police were closing in on the day that her childrens remains were discovered buried on his property.

In the call, made on 9 June 2020 and played in court during Ms Vallows high-profile double murder trial on Wednesday, Mr Daybell is heard telling his new wife that law enforcement were on the scene searching his property in Rexburg, Idaho.

Rachel Sharp has the details.

Lori Vallow trial hears jailhouse call with Chad Daybell on day bodies found

Brandon Boudreaux breaks down speaking about childrens remains

Monday 17 April 2023 21:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Cult mom Lori Vallows former nephew-in-law broke down in tears on the witness stand as he testified about the moment he had to identify the remains of her murdered seven-year-old son.

During an emotional first day of testimony in Ms Vallows murder trial on Monday, Brandon Boudreaux told jurors about the moment that he learned Joshua JJ Vallow, seven, and Tylee Ryans remains had been found buried on Chad Daybells property.

Rachel Sharp reports.

Lori Vallows nephew-in-law Brandon Boudreaux breaks down at murder trial

Lori Vallow trial hears horrifying details of her childrens murders

Monday 17 April 2023 20:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Graphic photos shown at cult mom Lori Vallows murder trial revealed how her slain son JJ was still wearing his red pyjamas and a nighttime diaper when his remains were found buried in a shallow grave on Chad Daybells property in Rexburg, Idaho.

Joshua JJ Vallow was last seen alive on 22 September 2019.

Lori Vallows son JJ was found buried in red pyjamas and diaper

Detective reveals alarming items found in Lori Vallows home

Monday 17 April 2023 19:45 , Oliver O'Connell

One of the first detectives investigating the disappearance of cult mom Lori Vallows son and daughter has revealed the alarming items discovered in her home months before the children were found murdered.

Andrea Blanco reports.

Detective reveals alarming items found in Lori Vallows home weeks after murders

Last week: Vallow abruptly leaves court after trial hears of discovery of childrens bodies

Monday 17 April 2023 18:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Cult mom Lori Vallow suddenly left the room where she is standing trial for the murders of her daughter and son after the court heard graphic details on how the childrens remains were recovered in a pet cemetery.

Andrea Blanco has the story.

Lori Vallow abruptly leaves court after trial hears grisly details about crime scene

Tammy Daybell murder revealed as asphyxiation

Monday 17 April 2023 17:45 , Oliver O'Connell

The cause of death of Chad Daybells first wife Tammy has finally been revealed as cult mom Lori Vallows high-profile murder trial gets underway in Idaho.

In opening statements in Ada County Courthouse on Monday morning, Fremont County prosecutor Lindsey Blake told jurors that Tammy, 49, died by asphyxiation  and not peacefully in her sleep as was originally claimed.

Rachel Sharp has the details.

Lori Vallow trial hears how Chad Daybells first wife Tammy was killed

Listen: Full audio of Fridays testimony

Monday 17 April 2023 17:33 , Oliver O'Connell

Listen to a full audio recording of Fridays testimony courtesy of Law & Crime:

Court is dark today in ID v. #LoriVallow. Catch up on Zulema's shocking testimony from Friday. She testifies about casting out of evil spirits and more. https://t.co/dN0FXB5c34  Cathy Russon (@cathyrusson) April 17, 2023

Vallow was driven by money, power and sex to murder her children, prosecutor says

Monday 17 April 2023 16:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Cult mom Lori Vallow was driven by money, power and sex to murder her two children and her new husbands then-wife, prosecutors told her murder trial.

Rachel Sharp has the story.

Lori Vallow was driven by money, power and sex to murder kids, prosecutor says

Former friend says doomsday cult mom saw her childrens murders as mercy'

Monday 17 April 2023 15:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Cult mom Lori Vallow allegedly killed her two children in what she believed was an act of mercy, her former friend has said.

Ms Vallow and her doomsday preacher husband Chad Daybell are accused of killing her two youngest children, 16-year-old Tylee Ryan and seven-year-old Joshua JJ Vallow. Ms Vallow is currently facing trial in Boise, Idaho, while Mr Daybells proceedings are scheduled for later this year.

Andrea Blanco reports.

Lori Vallow saw her childrens murders as mercy, former friend says

Guns, knives and doomsday kits found at Vallow home

Monday 17 April 2023 09:30 , Oliver O'Connell

One of the first detectives investigating the disappearance of cult mom Lori Vallows son and daughter has revealed the alarming items discovered in her home months before the children were found murdered.

Andrea Blanco reports.

Detective reveals alarming items found in Lori Vallows home weeks after murders
Photo Illustration by Kelly Caminero / The Daily Beast / Getty

Fort Lauderdale last week was inundated with a historic downpour that caused massive floods and catastrophic property damage, upending the lives of thousands of people. According to experts and meteorologists such as Dan DePodwin of AccuWeather, this level of rain was so historic and rare that it is expected to only occur once every thousand years. Some areas saw over 25 inches of rain.

Cars and trucks floated through the city, and artery roads were turned into rivers that can only be passed by swimming through them. Many residents lost their homes, their vehicles, and their every material possession.

I know all this to be true because my family experienced it all.

Ron DeSantis May Fall Into His Own Abortion Trap

As I was heading home last Wednesday night, I got a frightening text. It was from my mom, telling me not to come home. You cant come home. Water is everywhere, inside and outside. Were flooded.

Though it was pouring, I wasnt gravely concerned. Its just a little water, I thought to myself. I was wrong.

I would have no home to return to that night, but I would swim through two feet of water across the city just to sleep on the ground downtown. When the waters receded days later, I came back to what had been my home to find all my belongings destroyed and the interior of the house flooded.

Elijah Manley

Pictures, clothes, books, everything: gone. Theyre irreplaceable. Everything I spent my life building was gone in one night. Its like the memory of your identity has been wiped away. I couldnt help but feel destroyed inside knowing that everything I had to my name is gone. It takes me back to a time in my childhood when my family was homeless. During that time, it was difficult maintaining all of our belongings.

And as I and countless others were experiencing this tragedy, our governor was in other states, far away, hawking his book and hyping up donors for a likely presidential run. In a time of historic crisis, the leader of our states government went AWOL.

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It was only a few years ago when another Florida Republican governor, Rick Scott, traveled to areas affected by other natural disasters. Hed put partisanship aside and advocate for emergency aid to support affected communities. We can rebuild homes. We can rebuild businesses. We cannot rebuild your life, Scott said.

Our current governor, Ron DeSantis, is no Rick Scott.

Elijah Manley

While our local mayors, city commissioners, and emergency management personnel were on the ground immediately working to address the crisis, Gov. DeSantis didnt even have the time to call Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis to offer his support.

This angers me beyond words. Im not rich. My family is working class, and we have been blue-collar all our lives. It hurts my heart to know that my governor couldnt make time to visit my city, witness our suffering, and demonstrate leadership. He could have promised swift and aggressive relief, pledged to help us rebuild, and looked into our eyes and let us know some things are more important than politics. But he didnt.

Elijah Manley

Some DeSantis supporters have argued that his book tour and speaking engagements were planned in advance, while these floods could not have been predicted. That excuse might work for a day. Once it became clear there was a catastrophe back home, he could (and should) have hopped on the first jet back to Florida.

Instead, he continued his journey across the country to three states, including the early primary state of New Hampshire.

Yes, you read that correctly: while a major city in the governors home state was underwater, Ron DeSantis continued to sell books and campaign across the country.

Ron DeSantis Isnt a Tough Guy. Hes Just Another Cowardly Bully.

When he did fly back, it was in the middle of the night for a quick stop at the state Capitol to sign the six-week abortion ban. Then he left again, making no stops in Fort Lauderdale or affected areas. (His campaign and office staff did muster up the energy to attack critics on social media and lambaste the media for pointing out his absence.)

This isnt about partisanship, this is about responsibility. I have levied the same criticism at President Joe Biden for not visiting East Palestine, Ohio, after the catastrophic train derailment that devastated the working-class region.

If Ron DeSantis is more interested in running for president than being the governor we deserve in difficult times, then he must resign immediately. When we lost everything, our governor was absent. If DeSantis cant demonstrate basic humanity and offer effective leadership during an emergency as governor, how can we expect him to handle larger crises as president? We shouldnt.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now.

Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now.
A lottery player almost fainted over her big North Carolina win  and rushed to tell her son about the prize, officials said.

But he didnt believe her at first.

My son said, I dont mean no disrespect, but youre lying, $1 million prize winner Eunice Brown told the N.C. Education Lottery. I had to send him a picture to convince him.

Brown said her son wasnt the only person skeptical about the lucky win.

I looked at the ticket and didnt believe it, Brown said in an April 18 news release. Like I could see it, but just couldnt believe it.

But the win was the real deal, and it came after Brown went to Home Race Mart in Lake Waccamaw, a town roughly 40 miles northwest of Wilmington. While at the store, officials said she tried her luck on a $30 scratch-off ticket for the Millionaire Maker game.

Brown made the purchase one year after a ticket she bought at the same store won a smaller $5,000 prize. But when she discovered her more recent ticket was worth much more, she said she had to come back down to Earth.

I thought I was going to faint, Brown told the N.C. Education Lottery. I really did feel numb.

Brown, a Bladen County resident, took her prize in a lump sum of $600,000 and kept $427,509 after taxes. She said she plans to put some of the prize money toward bills and share it with her family members.

Its not the first time a lottery player has experienced numbness after hitting the jackpot. One recent North Carolina winner was left in a haze, while a South Carolina man felt numb for a couple of days, McClatchy News reported.

Change in morning routine leads to life-changing lottery win for North Carolina man

Truck driver scratches her NC lottery ticket  then she sees all those little zeroes
The Loudoun County Joint Board of Supervisors and School Board committee held a meeting Monday to discuss protocols on the handling of future sexual assault cases about a week after the U.S. Department of Education launched an investigation into the northern Virginia district mired by controversy.

"I dont believe that we have a systemic issue in our schools with sexual assault," supervisor Juli Briskman said at the meeting Monday. "Charges and arrests came very late in my opinion and communication failed."

The agenda listed the purpose of the meeting as "to provide the Joint Board of Supervisors and School Board Committee (Joint Committee) with information regarding Information about the School Resource Officer (SRO) Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Loudoun County Sheriffs Office (LCSO) and Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS), with specific information pertaining to investigations into sexual assaults in schools."

That included required training to investigate sexual assault claims, collaboration with non-profits or victims assistance programs to support victims, chain of command for SRO investigations, protocol between LCPS/ LCSO for investigating sexual assaults, funding and staffing needed for LCSO to investigate sexual assault cases appropriately, and interview protocols for underage sexual assault victims.

US DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION LAUNCHES PROBE INTO LOUDON COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS OVER HANDLING OF SEXUAL ASSAULTS

Loudon County Schools supervisor Juli Briskman at Monday's meeting related to the district handling of future sexual assault cases.

The northern Virginia district drew national attention after an LCPS father, during a June 2021 school board meeting, accused the district of covering up his daughter's sexual assault after a biological boy wearing a skirt raped her in the girls' bathroom in May of that year. The father, Scott Smith, claimed the district had attempted to cover up his daughter's assault to push its controversial transgender bathroom policy that had sparked parental protests at district school board meetings. The policy had not yet been implemented at the time of the assault.

Story continues

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

The suspect then transferred to another school in the district and assaulted another girl, and faced charges in both cases.

Last week, it was reported that the U.S. Department of Education is investigating Loudoun County Public Schools over accusations that the district failed to adequately address reports of sexual assault at Stone Bridge and Broad Run high schools.

FAIRFAX COUNTY SCHOOLS ACCUSED OF COVERING UP GANG RAPE AS MS-13 TRAFFICKERS PLAGUED DISTRICT: LAWSUIT

Loudoun County Joint Board of Supervisors and School Board committee meeting on sexual assault protocols.

Loudoun County Superintendent Scott Ziegler was fired by the school board in December in response to a grand jury report on the district's handling of the two sexual assaults committed by the same student. Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin was critical of Loudon County Public Schools while running for office and issued an executive order shortly after being sworn in green lighting an investigation by Attorney General Jason S. Miyares into the assaults. Miyares impaneled a grand jury in April 2022, resulting in the indictments of Ziegler and LCPS spokesman Wayde Belmont Byard, who allegedly lied to the grand jury about when he initially learned of the first sexual assault.

Last month, the Virginia Attorney Generals Office motioned for the court to issue a subpoena ordering interim Superintendent Daniel W. Smith to provide a report related to the investigation Ziegler publicly, the Loudon Times-Mirror reported. The school board earlier this year denied requests from the public to release the report, citing attorney-client privilege.

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, right, told Loudon County father Scott Smith, "Every parent in America stood with you," during an event to introduce the Parents Bill of Rights at the U.S. Capitol on March 1, 2023, in Washington, D.C.

"LCPS as an organization tends to avoid managing difficult situations by not addressing them fully," a special grand jury report stated, according to FOX 5. "This has not served them or our community well, and the culture needs to change. Stronger leadership would address problems head-on instead of letting them snowball."

Related to the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office, the report also stated school officials testified that multiple investigators called it an "iffy case" and a "shaky case."

"The recommendations that came out from the special grand jury, the eight of them, had no specific recommendations," Lt. Colonel Christopher Sawyer said at Monday's meeting. "Ultimately, those recommendations that came through the report were all based on Loudoun County Public Schools."

Fox News' Landon Mion contributed to this report.
Two Louisiana state senators said the Legislature was hoodwinked into legalizing a consumable hemp product market with enough THC levels to make users high, likening it to recreational marijuana.

"Last session we unknowingly created a recreational THC market in Louisiana," Republican Monroe Sen. Stewart Cathey said Tuesday during a Senate Agriculture Committee hearing that he chairs.

Cathey's committee was debating his Senate Bill 219 which would roll back the limit of THC that can be contained in consumable hemp products. The committee voted to advance the bill to the full Senate for debate.

THC is the chemical that creates a high or euphoria and is often credited with helping manage pain, stress and insomnia, among other conditions. Hemp's THC levels are typically lower than in its cannabis-cousin marijuana, but it can be concentrated in hemp products like edibles and sold at CBD stores.

"If we're going to legalize (recreational THC), it needs to be done openly and honestly, which wasn't done," Republican Monroe Sen. Jay Morris said. "It was sold to the Legislature as if we weren't allowing psychoactive materials."

Lawmakers, regulators and entrepreneurs in the exploding hemp industry are grappling with which consumable products from gummies to inhalables to frozen drinks containing THC are legal and how they can be packaged and sold, especially in relation to serving sizes.

Cathey's bill would limit the amount of THC in consumable products to 2 milligrams, down from the current 8-milligram limit.

A second bill by House Speaker Clay Schexnayder would make tweaks to the current law, but not to the extent of Cathey's. Schexnayder has shepherded four bills ushering the hemp industry into Louisiana since hemp was legalized on a federal level in 2018.

Leafly, a website focused on cannabis use and education, says a 5-milligram dose is "when a high begins to set in for many new or inconsistent consumers."

Story continues

"It was not the intent of the Legislature to authorize a statewide flood of unregulated THC psychoactive drug marketplace," Cathey said.

Casey White owns Pippi's Purpose hemp stores in Lafayette and Abbeville.

Hemp entrepreneurs testified that Cathey's bill would destroy the burgeoning industry and wipe out thousands of jobs.

"This bill would absolutely gut this industry," said Jason Garsee of Monroe, owner and chief executive of Str8W8 Cannabis and president of the Gulf South Hemp Association. "This bill you're carrying right now is putting people out of business in your town, state and district. It would decimate my investment and my business."

John Ford of Lafayette is president of Black Farmers Hemp.

"This doesn't make any sense," he said of Cathey's bill. "We're trying to grow an industry."

Casey White owns two CBD stores, called Pippi's Purpose, in Abbeville and Lafayette.

"I've spent my life savings to open these stores," White said. "This would destroy our industry."

Blaine Jennings, owner of Virgin Hemp Farms in Lafayette, said Cathey's bill is "a direct attack on the thousands of business owners in this booming industry."

Greg Hilburn covers state politics for the USA TODAY Network of Louisiana. Follow him on Twitter @GregHilburn1.

This article originally appeared on Lafayette Daily Advertiser: Louisiana senators say they were duped into legalizing hemp THC products
Former Love Is Blind contestants have described the allegedly unsafe working conditions they faced while filming the show, with multiple stars opening up about panic attacks and poor mental health they experienced on set.

Although Love Is Blind is currently one of Netflixs most popular reality shows, many former stars have now opened up about their negative experiences filming for the show while speaking to Insider.

Danielle Ruhl, who got married to Nick Thompson during season two of the show, said that she underwent a psychological screening before filming. However, she confessed that she felt like she shouldnt have passed the screening, as she claimed shed discussed her history of mental illness and previous attempted suicide.

Looking back Im like, they are only doing that to check the box, she said. They didnt care.

Speaking to Insider, contestants also said that they sign a contract which allegedly states that appearing on the show could expose their personal, private, surprising, defamatory, disparaging, embarrassing, or unfavourable information. The document also allegedly warns contestants they could be subject to public ridicule, humiliation or condemnation due to their appearances on Love Is Blind.

Ruhl also shared how producers allegedly responded to her mental health challenges while filming, specifically during her post-engagement trip to Mexico with Thompson, with the former reality star recalling panic attacks on set.

According to Ruhl, when she was left alone in a hotel room after producers were concerned she had Covid-19, she confessed that she started to feel more anxious. Along with being worried about her absence on the show, she felt stressed because she had recently told Thompson about a traumatic experience from her past.

She said that she then experienced a panic attack in her closet, where shed gone in order to make sure she wasnt on camera. Ruhl claimed that when Thompson returned, he tried to tell producers that he and his then-fiancee did not want to be on the show anymore. She also reportedly told producers that she was struggling with her mental health and did not want to keep filming.

Story continues

I kept telling them: I dont trust myself, she said. Ive tried committing suicide before. Im having suicidal thoughts. I dont think I can continue in this.

However, she claimed that producers kept telling her to stay and said things like: Youre the love story, or youre Lauren and Cameron, referring to season one couple Lauren Speed and Cameron Hamilton, who got married during their finale.

(MONTY BRINTON/NETFLIX)

Speaking to Insider, Thompson said contestants werent offered proper mental health services throughout filming or after it, despite intense scrutiny contestants often face when the show airs.

You thrust us into this situation without any support, and everythings amplified, he said. It literally ruins lives.

A season one contestant, Brianna Holmes, also revealed that she had a panic attack in the pods, after the man she was dating through a wall said that he was skeptical about marrying her.

She recalled the experience to Insider, with Holmes revealing she exited the pods in Atlanta while shaking and sobbing. However, she claimed that producers and film crew continued to follow her.

They literally chased me off of the set to the trailers, cameras in my face, Holmes said. Im like, this is too much. I dont want this. I dont want to be here. I dont want to do this.

She confessed that she left the show that day amid the pressure to get engaged to a stranger in less than two weeks. Its a lot, she explained. None of it was scripted. Everything you see is real. These are peoples real lives and real emotions.

Along with mental health challenges, multiple contestants claimed that they werent offered enough food or water when filming. Ruhl alleged food would run out in the womens living quarters.

I remember every time wed get to the freaking kitchen, thered be like one hard-boiled egg and it was like a fight to see like, who could actually get the stuff, she said.

The comments echoed season two contestant Jeremy Hartwells lawsuit against the Netflix show, which was filed in July 2022. In the legal document, he claimed that cast members were only given alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, energy drinks and mixers and that hydrating drinks such as water were limited.

The lawsuit also claimed that, through a combination of sleep deprivation, isolation, lack of food and an excess of alcohol all either required, enabled or encouraged by the Love Is Blind team, it created inhumane working conditions and altered mental state for the cast.

(MONTY BRINTON/NETFLIX)

Kinetic Content issued a statement to The Independent regarding the lawsuit last year, in which the firm said there was no merit to Harwells claims and that the company would vigorously defend against them.

Speaking to Insider, Hartwell claimed that, when he contacted Kinetics talent-relations manager, Erin Page, in February 2022, he was told that his complaints were being taken seriously. However, he alleged that a month after this conversation, someone from Kinetics legal counsel called him and denied his claims.

Contestants also reiterated Harwells comments about rest, claiming that they werent given enough hours to sleep when dating in the pods. The pods stage was a total of 10 days, with cast members required to film up to 20 hours a day. The filming schedule included dates, confessional interviews, and talking to other contestants in the living quarters.

The sleep deprivation was real, season one contestant Danielle Drouin said. I feel like they do it on purpose because theyre trying to break you. They want you on your edge.

After dating in the pods, couples return to their hometowns and live together, before saying I do or I do not at the altar.

In his lawsuit, Hartwell also alleged that Love Is Blind stars werent properly compensated for their time on the show. He claimed castmates are paid $1,000 per week, up to $8,000 for the length of filming the show. He claimed that production paid them less than half of the applicable minimum wage rate of $15 per hour in California, despite the cast working up to 20 hours a week.

He added that contestants couldnt leave the show until filming was done or else theyd have to pay $50,000, which could have caused them to fear the showrunners.

According to some former stars who spoke to Insider, when they left Love Is Blind, they struggled to return to their everyday lives, with Holmes alleging she quit her job as a mental-health counsellor because it reminded her about her time on the Netflix show.

She also acknowledged how disappointed she was about not getting any screen time, as she didnt get engaged on the show. It made it feel like everything I went through was for nothing, Holmes said. I wasnt good enough to make it more than 30 seconds on the show? It was like a smack in the face.

Thompson claimed that, after filming ended and when his season premiered, Kinetic didnt keep in touch with him and that he only got a few calls from a mental health professional, hired by Kinetic, who asked him how he was doing. When he told them that he wasnt good or that his marriage was ultimately falling apart, he claimed that the professional would respond with: Okay, let us know if you need anything.

It felt like checking a box, he said, alleging that he asked people at Kinetic to connect him with marriage therapists. I literally begged for help, and I didnt get it. Like, I want to fix my marriage that youve thrust us into for profit. And it was nothing.

Thompson also said that when the news broke in August 2022 that he and Ruhl had divorced, he received messages from people online who called him abusive and questioned his sexuality. It was brutal, he said. Thats when I started to crumble mentally.

Meanwhile, Ruhl confessed that shes been working on improving her mental health since filming wrapped. She also noted that she attended trauma therapy after her experience on Love Is Blind. I dont think that Ive felt myself since before filming, she said. Im trying to refind who I am because it f***ed with me so much.

Although Netflix didnt respond to Insiders request for comment, Kinetic Content said in a statement to the outlet: The wellbeing of our participants is of paramount importance to Kinetic. We have rigorous protocols in place to care for each person before, during, and after filming.

The Independent has contacted representatives for Kinetic Content and Netflix for comment.
BAGHDAD, April 18 (Xinhua) -- Four Islamic State (IS) militants were killed Tuesday in an airstrike on IS hideouts in Iraq's northern province of Kirkuk, the Iraqi military said.

Based on intelligence reports, the Iraqi warplanes conducted an airstrike in the rugged area of Wadi al-Shay, southwest of the namesake provincial capital Kirkuk, some 250 km north of Baghdad, according to a statement issued by the Security Media Cell, a media outlet affiliated with the Iraqi Joint Operations Command.

The airstrike resulted in the killing of four IS terrorists and the destruction of their hideouts, the statement added.

The security situation in Iraq has improved since the defeat of the IS in 2017. However, IS remnants have since melted into urban centers, deserts and rugged areas, carrying out frequent guerilla attacks against security forces and civilians. 
Is there really such a thing as too much chocolate?

Not if youre Kansas City-based chocolatier Russell Stover Chocolates.

The companys latest box of chocolates would crush Forrest Gump. It weighs in at 5,616 pounds.

The giant box of chocolates that measures more than 30 feet long and more than 15 feet wide and filled with enormous chocolate candies weighing in at 11 to 38 pounds each was created during an event Monday as Russell Stover employees worked to break the record for the worlds largest box of chocolate. The previous record held by U.K. chocolatier Thorntons was a mere 3,725 pounds.

A Guinness World Records representative was on hand to confirm the record while humongous chocolate candy treats were individually weighed as they were added to the giant gift box inside the Kauffman Center for the Peforming Arts. Chocolate coated almonds were added for good measure.

Russ Bishop, center, member of Russell Stovers world record chocolate team, weighs in giant slabs of chocolate during Mondays attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the largest box of chocolate.

The record setting event was part of the companys celebration of its 100th year in business. A silent auction was held during the event with proceeds going to Feed the Children, a nonprofit that provides food and essentials to families in need.

Who gets to eat the massive candies? They will be distributed in ways to benefit Feed the Children later this year according to Russell Stover Chocolates.

See the giant box of candy being assembled in these photos.

The giant chocolate candies placed in the Russell Stover gift box weighed from 11 to 38 pounds each.

Giant specialty chocolates weighing from 11 to 38 pounds each are placed in the enormous gift box that measured 30 feet, 4.5 inches by 15 feet, five inches.

Mike Finn prepares to put a giant chocolate slab into a chocolate box during Russell Stover Chocolates attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the largest box of chocolate.

The giant novelty chocolates that filled the Russell Stover Chocolates gift box weight from 11 to 38 pounds each and combined to make more than 5,000 pounds of candy in the Guiness World Records largest box of chocolates.

A Russell Stover chocolatier places giant chocolate specialty candies into a chocolate box during Russell Stover Chocolates attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the largest box of chocolate.

Brian Walsh dumps chocolate covered almonds into the chocolate gift box during Russell Stover Chocolates attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the largest box of chocolate.

The last two giant slabs of chocolate are wheeled in on a cart to put inside a Russell Stover Chocolates box during the Kansas City-based chocolate companys attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the largest box of chocolate Monday, April 17, 2023, at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. More than 5,000 pounds of giant chocolate candies were loaded into the oversized gift box to set a new Guiness World Record of 5,616 pounds.

Niccolo Starace, CEO of Russell Stover Chocolates, left, accepts the Guinness World Record award for the largest box of chocolate at Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts on Monday, April 17, 2023, in Kansas City. The oversized 5,616 pound replica of the brands chocolate box was filled with specialty chocolates weighing from 11 to 38 pounds each.
Earth Day is April 20, but in the Charlotte area, were celebrating across multiple days. And for good reason  its a good time to reset our own expectations for how we can help treat Mother Earth with the love she deserves. Below, youll find events that help you donate those used household goods, organize creek and street cleanups and even giveaways for free trees.

Ongoing events

Clean the Queen with Envision Charlotte

Location: 932 Seigle Ave, Charlotte, NC 28205

When: Now through Friday, April 21

Cost: Free

Sign up for a volunteer slot by emailing engage@envisioncharlotte.org. Youll be given an area of town, safety vest, litter pickers and bags. Wear comfortable clothes and plan to show up 10 minutes before your shift. Snap a photo of your area before and after, then bring your litter back to the Innovation Barn. The onsite coffee shop opens at 7 a.m., and Giddy Goat will be selling empanadas and lunch items. A celebration party will be held on Friday:

1-2:30 p.m.: Grand Opening of Community Apiary, featuring local honey tastings from Bee Downtown.

3-6 p.m.: Celebrate the week other volunteers, a live band, food, beer and wine. Awards will be announced at 5 p.m.

Visit the website for the full list of events.





Charlotte Observers Earth Day subscription sale

Location: Virtual

When: Now through Sunday, April 23

Cost: $5 for 3 months of unlimited digital access

Save the trees (and newsprint) by hopping on The Charlotte Observers Earth Day digital sale. Bonus: Access to all of CharlotteFives content is included in your subscription!

Friday, April 21

Ballantyne Earth Day

Location: Brixham Park, 15801 Brixham Hill Ave, Charlotte, NC 28277

When: Friday, April 21; 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., and 5-9 p.m.

Cost: Free for daytime events; food available for purchase; $10 for movie night

In Ballantyne, Northwood Office will host a free shredding, meditation and movie night. Here are the details:

8 a.m. to noon: You can shred and recycle personal documents and donate household items to Goodwill.

8 a.m. to noon: Outdoor meditation and yoga flow with SweatNET Charlotte.

8 a.m. to noon: Feast with food trucks, play games and listen to live music.

5 to 9 p.m.: Outdoor movie night showing of Finding Nemo. Food and drink options available for purchase on site.

Story continues

Outdoor movie nights at Brixham Park in Ballantye.

Saturday, April 22

Mecklenburg County Earth Day events

Location: Varies

When: Varies

Cost: Varies

Mecklenburg County is hosting a plethora of Earth Day events. Here are a couple:

Saturday, April 22 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.: Sweep the streets around Naomi Drenan Rec Center.

Saturday, April 22 from 1-3 p.m.: Earth Day scavenger hunt at McDowell Nature Center.

Make sure to register online before the events fill up!

Cemetery headstone preservation

Location: Steele Creek Presbyterian Church Cemetery; 7001 Steele Creek Pres Ch, Charlotte, NC 28217

When: Saturday, April 22; 9 a.m.-noon

Cost: Free

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Historic Landmarks Associations Adventure Club will host a cemetery headstone preservation event at Charlottes historic Steele Creek Presbyterian Church Cemetery. Air pollution is contributing to the deterioration of headstones. Youll be using a mild biodegradable, pH neutral solution to protect them for years. Register by April 20. Contact the commission with any questions.

Birdsong Brewing creek cleanup

Location: 1016 N. Davidson St. Charlotte, NC 28206

When: Saturday, April 22; 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Cost: Free

Join Birdsong Brewings team for its annual cleanup of the brewerys adopted portion of Little Sugar Creek and the surrounding streets. Theres an after-party and a vinyl reuse workshop hosted by UpCycle Arts CLT. Here are the details:

10 a.m. -12 p.m.: Creek Clean Up

12-2 p.m.: After party, where non-alcoholic beverages and pizza will be provided for volunteers at the brewerys taproom.

1-5 p.m.: Vinyl reuse workshop

Earth Day Jam

Location: Bell Tower Green Park, 120 South Church Street, Salisbury, NC, United States,

When: Saturday, April 22; 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Cost: Free

Salisburys annual Earth Day Jam is a music and arts festival that will celebrate Earth Day. Here is what you can expect at the festival:

Members of local agencies and nonprofits offering help with education.

Local farmers and growers selling produce.

Artisans and craftsmen selling goods

Yoga and reflexology

Local foods, sweets and libations from New Sarum Brewing Company and Dover Vineyards

15 local, regional, and nationally touring bands on two stages.

BPC & Springclean Earth Day

Location: 932 Seigle Ave, Charlotte, NC 28205

When: Saturday, April 22, 1-3 p.m.

Cost: Free

Help create the first Black Political Caucus quilt using reused recycled, and repurposed T-shirts donated by members of the caucus. Registration is required; contact Keiba Young at (704) 453-4456 or bpc.iiivc@gmail.com or CT Anderson at (704-565-9144) or info@springclean.org for details.

Brunch for the planet at Snooze

Location: 1331 Central Ave Suite 100, Charlotte, NC 28205

Location: 2041 South Blvd Suite 106, Charlotte, NC 28203

Location: 4425 Sharon Rd S170, Charlotte, NC 28211

When: Saturday, April 22, all day

Cost: Cost of your meal

Snooze A.M. Eatery will plant a tree on behalf of each member of its loyalty program who eats at Snooze on Saturday. Sign up for the program, order a pancake flight and dine happy, knowing that the restaurant has pledged to plant up to 3,000 trees this year.

Saturday, April 29

Green Fest at the Downtown Hickory Farmers Market

Location: The Sails on the Square, 246 Union Square NW, Hickory, NC 28601

When: Saturday, April 29; 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

Cost: Free

The City of Hickory will celebrate Earth Day and Arbor Day with a booth at the Downtown Hickory Farmers Market. Stop by the citys booth to get:
Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko has held a meeting with Denis Pushilin, the Kremlin-appointed puppet leader of the so-called Donetsk Peoples Republic [DPR, self-proclaimed and non-recognised republic in Donetsk Oblast  ed.].

Source: Belarusian presidential Telegram channel Pul Pervogo; Belarusian state-owned news outlet Belta

Details: Lukashenko's office said on 18 April that he was meeting with the "interim head of the DPR", Denis Pushilin, and showed a photo of the meeting between the leader of the Donetsk militants and the self-proclaimed president of Belarus.

Lukashenko has offered Donetsk Belarus' assistance in restoring and normalising people's lives under Russia's occupation of the Ukrainian region.

Quote from Lukashenko: "There is a lot of work ahead. We need to rebuild. We need to revive industrial enterprises and agriculture. In the end, people will live there. It is 100% certain. And people need to be fed.

That is why we are ready to provide appropriate assistance and support so that people who are not strangers to us there can finally stop suffering. That is why I am waiting for such a frank conversation from you."

Background: Pushilin, the Kremlin's puppet leader in Donetsk, visited Belarus in July 2022. He visited the Brest Fortress at the time and was accompanied by Andrey Turchak, the secretary of the United Russia party's general council, and Boris Gryzlov, Russias Ambassador to Belarus.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
Im a Celebrity is back for an All-Stars edition set in South Africa.

Premiering on ITV on 24 April, Im a Celebrity... South Africa sees a number of prominent former contestants return to the series for another set of challenges.

Phil Tufnell, Carol Vorderman and Shaun Ryder are among the familiar faces competing this season.

ITV has claimed that the new locale will provide bigger and tougher challenges in a harsher and more unforgiving environment.

Also among the brave returnees announced was actor Helen Flanagan.

Heres a brief breakdown of Flanagans life and career, as well as what shes said about appearing on Im a Celebrity for the second time...

Flanagan, 32, is best known for her 12-year stint on ITVs long-running drama Coronation Street. From 2000 to 2012, the actor starred as Rosie Webster.

Helen Flanagan Im a Celebrity (ITV)

She briefly reprised the role in 2017, before going on maternity leave in 2018.

Flanagan made her Im a Celebrity debut in its 12th series over a decade ago.

During her five-week journey, she faced several Bushtucker trials, which required her to dive into a tank full of crocodiles, get buried alive in bugs and more. She was eliminated in the fifth round of the 2012 Australia-based season.

Speaking ahead of her return to the jungle, Flanagan said: I am not saying I am going to go in and be a jungle warrior and be absolutely amazing because I will not. Yes, I will be scared but I will have a go and I will be a lot better than last time.

When I see Ant & Dec in the South African jungle, I will joke I am not going to do the Trials! It will also be really nice to see Ant & Dec again in a funny sort of way!

Im a Celebrity South Africa begins on 24 April at 9pm on ITV1 and ITVX.
A video surfaced Tuesday of French President Emmanuel Macron singing a traditional song in the street after a televised address in which he sought to soothe tensions over his unpopular pension reforms.

Many internet users suspected the footage was faked using AI or other means when it first emerged, but people close to Macron told AFP it was genuine.

"The president took a moment with his wife (Brigitte Macron) after his speech (on Monday evening). They encountered a group of young people who were singing... so he joined them in a song from the Pyrenees which he knows and loves," they said.

In the night-time video, Macron can be seen reading from his phone the words of "Le Refuge", a song about a lodge in the mountain range on France's southwestern border with Spain, surrounded by men in their 20s and 30s singing vigorously.

The incident might at first have seemed a welcome show of connection with voters for the president, whose reforms including an increase to the pension age have earned him widespread animosity in recent weeks.

But the video was first published on the Facebook page of an organisation called "Projet Canto".

While the group describes itself as preserving traditional songs in digital form, left-wing newspaper Liberation reported last year that it was founded and run by far-right activists and offered recordings of songs with ties to Nazi Germany in its app.

Macron "could not have known in the moment the backgrounds of every person he was speaking to," the person in his entourage said.

The group told Liberation last year that "political songs are part of the history of song, that's why we've stored them," saying it also had "far-left" songs in its catalogue.

Macron previously sang "Le Refuge" during a trip to the Upper Pyrenees in 2022.

sac-fff-nga/tgb/sjw/ach
(Bloomberg) -- French President Emmanuel Macron is looking to reverse a string of disappointing diplomatic forays by approaching China with a plan that he believes could potentially lead to talks between Russia and Ukraine.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Macron has tasked his foreign policy adviser Emmanuel Bonne to work with Chinas top diplomat, Wang Yi, to establish a framework that could be used as a basis for future negotiations, according to people familiar with the plans.

As President Xi Jinping stressed, there are no magic pills to solve the crisis, according to a spokesperson from Chinas Foreign Ministry. The spokesperson added that all parties would need to accumulate mutual trust to create conditions for a truce and peace talks.

The French strategy envisions talks between Russia and Ukraine happening as soon as this summer if all goes well, said the people, who spoke on the condition of anonymity.

On his recent trip to China, the French president fell short of his goal to convince Xi to talk to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy  the two still havent spoken since the war broke out more than a year ago. Macron also infuriated allies last year after he said allies shouldnt humiliate Russia.

China supports Europe starting from its own fundamental and long-term interests to push for resuming peace talks as soon as possible and to create a balanced, effective and sustainable European security framework with consideration for the reasonable concerns of various parties, according to the Chinese spokesperson.

Its not clear if Macron has support for his plan from Kyiv and its allies, many of whom have dismissed cease-fire proposals that would allow Russia to keep territorial gains. Many nations are also skeptical that China can serve as a neutral intermediary given its no-limits friendship with Russia. The countries have repeatedly pledged to strengthen ties, including a call on Monday to boost cooperation between their militaries.

Story continues

An official from Macrons office confirmed the plan for Bonne to speak to Wang but declined to comment on the details, adding that Frances allies have been informed of any French initiative.

Spring Offensive

Any future negotiations would be dependent on several conditions, including a successful Ukrainian spring offensive that would put Kyiv in a position of strength during any talks, according to the people.

Some European officials worry that dangerously high expectations have been placed on any Ukrainian counteroffensive, which may not be decisive enough for Kyiv to liberate all the territory Russia has occupied. A more realistic target is a 30 kilometer (20 mile) or so advance in the south that would put Ukraines most capable artillery within range of Russian supply lines and create the conditions for a deeper push in 2024, Bloomberg previously reported.

This means Ukraines allies would need to ramp up support to enable future offensives to win back more occupied territory or that any potential ceasefire negotiations before that time could see Russia remain entrenched in significant swathes of Ukrainian territory.

Macron has previously said that he sees a major role for China and that thanks to its relationship with Russia it could bring Moscow back to reason. Beijing so far hasnt shown signs that its willing to pressure Moscow to withdraw troops.

Top diplomats from the Group of Seven nations  including France  this week endorsed Zelenskiys Peace Formula, which includes the complete withdrawal of all Russian troops from Ukrainian territory.

Zelenskiy said on Telegram over the weekend that he talked with Macron about his recent visit to China. The two spoke about the next steps in organizing a peace summit, Agence France-Presse wrote, citing an official in Macrons office.

Kyiv has repeatedly said that territorial concessions shouldnt be on the table and several of Ukraines allies back that position, warning that any settlement that essentially freezes the war would likely see Russia rearm before starting another offensive.

For his part, Russian President Vladimir Putin has provided little indication to suggest his objectives have changed, let alone that he is prepared to move forces out of Ukrainian territory.

Macrons plan would rely on long-term security assurances for Ukraine that would aim to deter Russia from future acts of aggression, according to the people. Allies have yet to spell out the specifics of the measures due to be agreed at a NATO leaders summit in Lithuania in July, but will aim to help Ukraine modernize its armed forces and become more interoperable with NATO militaries.

In parallel, Ukraines allies are also working on ways to sustain the ongoing provision of weapons and key supplies, such as 155mm rounds of ammunition, one of the people said.

--With assistance from Colum Murphy.

(Updates with Zelenskiy comment on Telegram in 14th paragraph. An earlier version replaced a Chinese Foreign Ministry comment that was erroneously included.)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Madeline Kingsbury was planning on moving out of the home she shared with the father of her children before she went missing, according to her sister.

Ms Kingsbury and Adam Fravel, the father of the children, were no longer in a romantic relationship and Ms Kingsbury was looking to move, Megan Kingsbury told KARE 11 over the weekend.

Megan said her sister was looking for a place to live in the area to remain close to Mr Fravel so her children could see him as often as possible.

Mr Fravel does not have custodial rights to his children.

Ms Kingsbury was last seen on 31 March after dropping their two children off at daycare with Mr Fravel.

Megan said she last heard from her sister the morning she went missing, the two were exchanging text messages. But later that day, when Ms Kingsburys family could not reach her, they became concerned.

The Kingsbury family, people in the community, and law enforcement have spent the past two weeks searching tirelessly for Ms Kingsbury.

Mr Fravel denies any involvement in Ms Kingsburys disappearance.

So far, police have not named any suspects.

Key points

Madeline Kingsbury vanished on 31 March after daycare dropoff

Father of children says he borrowed her blue van

Mom-of-twos final text revealed

Search scaled back after over 2,000 join hunt for missing mom

Sister of missing mother-of-two speaks out

ICYMI: Police provide update on Madeline Kingsburys van

09:00 , Ariana Baio

Madeline Maddi Kingsburys dark blue Chrysler Town and Country van is currently being processed for evidence according to Winona Police.

The dark blue van is at the center of the investigation as law enforcement believes the whereabouts of the vehicle may lead to the location of Ms Kingsbury.

(Winona PD)

Theyve asked residents in Winona County and Fillmore County to check their home security cameras for any footage captured on 31 March or 1 April to see if they can spot the van.

Throughout the investigation, we have worked closely with the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA to identify and process any available forensic evidence, the Winona Police said in a press release.

Story continues

We are following up on leads and paths of inquiry trying to get answers in this case.

Madeline Kingsbury was looking to move out of her home

06:00 , Ariana Baio

Madeline Maddi Kingsbury was looking to move out of the home that she shared with the father of her children, Adam Fravel, according to her sister.

Megan Kingsbury told KARE 11 over the weekend that Ms Kingsbury and Mr Fravel had ended their romantic relationship and Ms Kingsbury was looking for a new place to live.

I knew that her intentions were to keep the kids as close to Adam as possible, Megan said.

Mr Fravel does not have custodial rights to the two children he had with Ms Kingsbury but Megan said there were plans to co-parent.

Upon Ms Kingsburys disappearance, the two children were placed into state custody until a safe and more permanent place to stay was found.

(Winona Police)

Megan Kingsbury shares emotional video about her sister

03:00 , Ariana Baio

Megan Kingsbury, the sister of Madeline Kingsbury, shared a video on her TikTok page talking about her younger sister.

Every day, Megan checks in with TikTok about the search for her missing 26-year-old sister.

On 17 April, Megan made a video talking about how difficult this time has been without her sister.

I miss my sister, a lot, Megan said. Shes been in this house a number of times and I just look at spots where she has sat or stood and I just see her everywhere.

Its been more than two weeks since Ms Kingsbury went missing. So far police have no suspects or leads as to where Ms Kingsbury might be.

The Kingsbury family and the communities have been relentlessly searching for Ms Kingsbury since she went missing.

But Megan and her family are not giving up hope to finding their sister and daughter.

Of course were hopeful that were gonna find her, Megan told KARE 11. Its not so much a question of if, its when. Its really hard the longer it goes on, two weeks, but the hope is obviously still there. Its just a struggle to keep positivity about it sometimes.

Community support gathering offered for those affected by Madeline Kingsburys disappearance

Tuesday 18 April 2023 00:00 , Ariana Baio

The Hiawatha Valley Mental Health Center is offering a safe and quiet space for those affected by Madeline Maddi Kingsburys disappearance to support each other.

In a flyer posted to the Finding Madeline Kingsbury Facebook page, the Hiawatha Valley Mental Health Center said they would like to offer a safe, quiet space for you and our community to be together to support each other.

For over two weeks, the communities in Winona County and Fillmore County have come together to search for Ms Kingsbury who mysteriously vanished on 31 March after dropping her two children off at daycare.

This is not a formal educational or therapy gathering but an information time for us to support one another, Hiawatha Valley Mental Health Center added.

Law enforcement continue their search for Madeline Kingsbury

Monday 17 April 2023 20:00 , Ariana Baio

Madeline Kingsbury and Adam Fravel ended their relationship recently

Monday 17 April 2023 18:00 , Ariana Baio

Madeline Kingsbury and Adam Fravel ended their relationship recently according to Megan Kingsbury, the sister of Ms Kingsbury.

Speaking with local news outlet KARE 11, Megan said her sister was looking for a new place to live after she and Mr Fravel ended their relationship.

Megan said she wanted her sister, known as Maddi, to move closer to her in the Twin Cities but Ms Kingsbury wanted her two young children to have frequent contact with their father as there may have been plans to co-parent.

Her intentions were to keep the kids as close to Adam as possible, Megan told KARE 11.

Who is Madeline Jane Kingsbury?

Monday 17 April 2023 16:00 , ariana.baio

Madeline Maddi Jane Kingsbury has been missing for two weeks.

The 26-year-old mother-of-two is from Winona Minnesota and disappeared mysteriously on 31 March after dropping her two young children off at daycare.

Ms Kingsbury has become the subject of national media attention as police, her family, and community members search for her.

Megan Kingsbury, the sister of Ms Kingsbury described her as a hardworking and dedicated mother.

Shes my best friend. She was really funny as a little kid. She liked to pick out her own clothes and they never matched. And she loved wearing dark red lipstick that was always on her teeth, Megan told ABC6 News.

Ms Kingsbury was knowingly close with her family. Her sister last heard from her around 8.15 am on the morning of her disappearance.

After her family couldnt get in contact with her during the day, they knew something was wrong.

Ms Kingsburys mother, Krista Naber, told News Nation, Madeline was just a hard-at-work mom, she took care of her two babies, she had started graduate school in January. Things were finally looking up for her.

Madeline Kingsbury, a 26-year-old mother of two children, was last seen on 31 March (Winona Police)

Sister of Madeline Kingsbury provides update

Monday 17 April 2023 13:45 , Ariana Baio

Megan Kingsbury, the sister of Madeline Kingsbury, sat down for an interview with local news outlet KARE 11 to discuss updates in her sisters disappearance investigation.

This past weekend, volunteers - some on horseback- searched targetted areas in Winona and Fillmore Counties.

Of course, were hopeful that were gonna find her, Megan said.

Its not so much a question of if, its when, its really hard the longer it goes on, two weeks, but the hope is obviously still there. Its just a struggle to keep positivity about it sometimes.

Megan said law enforcement has not provided any further updates about the searches other than what theyve told the public.

Ms Kingsbury has been missing since 31 March.

WATCH: Original press conference from Winona Police

Monday 17 April 2023 11:00 , Ariana Baio

Search continues for Madeline Kingsbury

Monday 17 April 2023 08:00 , Ariana Baio

The Finding Madeline Kingsbury Facebook Page told people on Friday, 14 April that they would be searching for Ms Kingsbury over the weekend via horseback.

We are beyond [grateful] and overwhelmed with the amount of equine volunteers that have reached out. Because of this we are working to best figure out where to utilize everyone. We are working with law enforcement to sort out a plan, please do not contact their offices to limit traffic to equine coordinators, admins, and law enforcement.

Ms Kingsbury has been missing for two weeks.

Father of Madeline Kingsburys children involved in custody dispute

Monday 17 April 2023 05:00 , Ariana Baio

Adam Fravel, the father of Madeline Kingsburys children, was involved in a custody dispute over his two children in the days following Ms Kingsburys disappearance.

According to a petition from the Winona County Health and Human Services, obtained by Fox News Digital, Mr Fravel allegedly did not cooperate with authorities when they placed his two children on a 72-hour-hold after Ms Kingsbury went missing.

Ariana Baio reports.

Father of Madeline Kingsburys children involved in custody dispute

Madeline Kingsburys sister reveals their final text exchange

Monday 17 April 2023 02:00 , Ariana Baio

Madeline Maddi Kingsburys sister, Meghan Kingsbury revealed the final text messages between her and her sister before she went missing on 31 March.

Megan said the last text message she received from Ms Kingsbury was at 8.15 am, the day she went missing.

We were chuckling about a funny photo exchange between us, and that was the last communication with me, or with any of my family or her other friends, Megan told Fox News.

Megan said she and her family became worried about Ms Kingsbury after she stopped answering her phone.

This is very unlike her, Megan said. Shes not the type of person who would want to take a break and not tell anybody. If she had a problem and wanted to get away, she would come to my house.

Online rumours lead to speculation and misinformation

Sunday 16 April 2023 23:00 , Ariana Baio

Throughout the Madeline Kingsbury investigation, online rumours have led to misinformation.

The Kingsbury family and police requested the public refrain from spreading gossip about Ms Kingsbury and the investigation via social media.

On the Finding Madeline Kingsbury Facebook page, the Kingsbury family asked people to display appropriate and empathetic behavior both on and offline by not spreading unconfirmed information about the investigation.

If you are participating in a search party PLEASE keep any and all findings within your group and Law Enforcement, a post in the group read.

One online rumour led some to believe the Winona Police Department was going to host a press conference on 11 April which led law enforcement to clear things up in a post.

Internet sleuths have jumped to conclusions when assuming how Ms Kingsbury went missing and who may, or may not have, been involved in her disappearance.

The speculation led the father of Ms Kingsburys children, Adam Fravel, to release a statement stating he did not have anything to do with Ms Kingsburys disappearance.

WATCH: Megan Kingsbury give update on her sisters disappearance

Sunday 16 April 2023 20:00 , Ariana Baio

$16k raised for family of Madeline Kingsbury

Sunday 16 April 2023 17:00 , Ariana Baio

So far, people have raised over $16,000 for the family of Madeline Maddi Kingsbury after she disappeared on 31 March without a trace.

A GoFundMe was set up to help pay for Ms Kingsburys family to stay in hotels while they search for her in surrounding areas.

Were overwhelmed by the dedication and tangible expressions of love demonstrated by the huge circle of warriors she unknowingly gathered around her, the Kingsbury family said in a statement on 11 April.

The GoFundMes goal is $20,000.

Father of Madeline Kingsburys children speaks out

Sunday 16 April 2023 14:00 , Ariana Baio

Adam Fravel, the father of Madeline Kingsburys two children released a statement amid public speculation.

Over the course of the last 12 days my family and I have been subject to a myriad of accusations regarding the disappearance of the mother of my children, Maddi Kingsbury, the statement from Mr Fravel said.

I did not have anything to do with Maddis disappearance, he added.

Andrea Blanco and Ariana Baio report.

Father of Madeline Kingsburys kids speaks out almost two weeks after she vanished

Madeline Kingsburys family says we will find Madeline

Sunday 16 April 2023 12:30 , Ariana Baio

On 12 April, the Winona Police Department and Kingsbury family provided a statement and press release about the disappearance of Madeline Maddi Kingsbury.

Were overwhelmed by the dedication and tangible expressions of love demonstrated by the huge circle of warriors she unknowingly gathered around her- her sorority sisters, coworkers at Mayo Clinic, and other places, fellow students from her days at Winona State, other moms and her many, many friends, acquaintances and people whose lives she touched.

The 26-year-old mother-of-two was last seen and heard from on 31 March. Police have conducted one large mass search and now smaller searches led by community members are underway.

There have been so signs of Ms Kingsbury thus far but her family says they are not giving up hope.

We will find Madeline. This is our mission and we will not falter.

REACP: Who is Madeline Kingsbury and what happened to her?

Sunday 16 April 2023 09:00 , Ariana Baio

The search for 26-year-old Madeline Jane Kingsbury is underway after the mother-of-two mysteriously disappeared on 31 March.

Ms Kingsbury was last seen dropping her two young children off at daycare with the father of her children. After returning home around 8.15 am on 31 March her whereabouts became unknown.

Here is everything we know about Ms Kingsbury as Winona Police continue their search and investigation into her disappearance.

Rachel Sharp reports.

What we know about missing mother Madeline Kingsburys disappearance

Law enforcement ask residents to check their cameras

Sunday 16 April 2023 06:00 , Ariana Baio

Law enforcement officials are asking residents of Fillmore, Houston, and Winona counties to check their cameras, save videos, and walk their properties in the hunt for missing woman Madeliene Maddi Jane Kingsbury.

Walk your property if you havent done so already, Tom Williams, the Winona Police Chief said in a press conference on Friday, 7 April.

Look for signs of anything suspicious, a disturbance, or anything out of place, Mr Williams added.

Fillmore County Sheriff John DeGeorge echoed Mr Williams plea asking people to check their cars, their properties, the trails, and more for any suspicious signs.

Ms Kingsbury went missing on 31 March.

What Madeline Kingsbury told her family minutes before she vanished

Sunday 16 April 2023 03:00 , Ariana Baio

Just moments before Madeline Maddi Kingsburys suspicious disappearance, she was texting with her sister, Megan Kingsbury.

The two had a close relationship and Ms Kingsbury was often in communication with her family.

Ms Kingsburys family knew something was wrong when she stopped answering their messages as it was out of character for her.

Police in Winona and neighbouring Filmore County described Ms Kingsburys disappearance as involuntary and suspicious.

Megan revealed what she and her now-missing sister were speaking about.

Andrea Blanco reports.

Sister of missing Winona mother Madeline Kingsbury reveals final text

Madeline Kingsbury had plans to see sister day after she vanished

Sunday 16 April 2023 00:00 , Ariana Baio

Megan Kingsbury said that she and her 26-year-old sibling had arranged to meet on Saturday 1 April but were yet to flesh out the details of the plans.

They were messaging on the morning of Friday 31 March, with Megan revealing she received the last text from her sister at around 8.15am.

Neither she nor anyone else has seen or heard from Ms Kingsbury since then.

What we know about the day Madeline Kingsbury disappeared

Saturday 15 April 2023 21:00 , Ariana Baio

On 31, March, Madeline Maddi Jane Kingsbury suddenly disappeared after dropping her two young children off at daycare.

Her disappearance has been described as involuntary and suspicious by law enforcement officials and Ms Kingsburys family is pleading with the public for help finding their missing daughter, mother, and sister.

Heres what we know about the timeline of her disappearance.

8 am, 31 March- Ms Kingsbury and the father of her children dropped off their two children at daycare.

8.15 am, 31 March- Ms Kingsbury returned home in her dark blue Chrysler Town & Country van.

10 am, 31 March-The father of Ms Kingsburys children told police officers he left her residence in the dark blue van.

The father of the children returned to Ms Kingsburys residence and told authorities she was no longer home. Ms Kingsburys cellphone, ID, wallet, and jacket she was wearing earlier that day were left inside.

1.30 pm, 31 March- The dark blue Chrysler Town & Country van was spotted traveling southbound on County Road 12 and Highway 43 in Winona County. Police did not say who was driving.

1 April- Winona Police Department released Ms Kingsburys photo saying they are seeking information in her disappearance.

7 April- The Winona County Sheriffs Office and Fillmore County Sheriffs Office conducted a mass search.

8 April- Law enforcement announced they will be ending the planned second mass search because there were enough volunteers to cover more ground.

12 April- The Kingsbury family and Winona Police release a statement saying they are still searching for Ms Kingsbury. The father of Ms Kingsburys children also releases a statement telling the public he had nothing to do with her disappearance.

An update on Madeline Kingsburys van

Saturday 15 April 2023 18:00 , Ariana Baio

Madeline Maddi Kingsburys dark blue Chrysler Town and Country van is currently being processed for evidence according to Winona Police.

The dark blue van is at the center of the investigation as law enforcement believes the whereabouts of the vehicle may lead to the location of Ms Kingsbury.

Theyve asked residents in Winona County and Fillmore County to check their home security cameras for any footage captured on 31 March or 1 April to see if they can spot the van.

Throughout the investigation, we have worked closely with the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA to identify and process any available forensic evidence, the Winona Police said in a press release.

We are following up on leads and paths of inquiry trying to get answers in this case.

(Winona PD)

Madeline Kingsburys family releases statement

Saturday 15 April 2023 15:00 , Ariana Baio

Madeline Kingsburys family releases statement

Nothing in life prepares you for this, the Kingsbury family wrote in a statement posted to Facebook.

On 12 April, the Winona Police Department and Kingsbury family provided a statement and press release about the disappearance of Ms Kingsbury.

The 26-year-old mother-of-two was last seen and heard from on 31 March. Police have conducted one large mass search and now smaller searches led by community members are underway.

Were overwhelmed by the dedication and tangible expressions of love demonstrated by the huge circle of warriors she unknowingly gathered around her- her sorority sisters, coworkers at Mayo Clinic, and other places, fellow students from her days at Winona State, other moms and her many, many friends, acquaintances and people whose lives she touched.

There have been so signs of Ms Kingsbury thus far but her family says they are not giving up hope.

We will find Madeline. This is our mission and we will not falter.

Search continues for Madeline Kingsbury

Saturday 15 April 2023 13:00 , Ariana Baio

The Finding Madeline Kingsbury Facebook Page told people on Friday, 14 April that they would be searching for Ms Kingsbury over the weekend via horseback.

We are beyond [grateful] and overwhelmed with the amount of equine volunteers that have reached out. Because of this we are working to best figure out where to utilize everyone. We are working with law enforcement to sort out a plan, please do not contact their offices to limit traffic to equine coordinators, admins, and law enforcement.

Ms Kingsbury has been missing for two weeks.

ICYMI: Father of Madeline Kingsburys children involved in custody dispute

Saturday 15 April 2023 11:00 , Ariana Baio

Adam Fravel, the father of Madeline Kingsburys children, was involved in a custody dispute over his two children in the days following Ms Kingsburys disappearance.

Ariana Baio reports.

Father of Madeline Kingsburys children involved in custody dispute

WATCH: Law enforcement hold a press conference on Madeline Kingsbury

Saturday 15 April 2023 08:00 , Ariana Baio

Adam Fravel involved in custody dispute

Saturday 15 April 2023 06:00 , Ariana Baio

Adam Fravel, the father of missing 26-year-old Madeline Kingsbury, was involved in a custody dispute in the days after Ms Kingsburys disappearance.

According to a petition from the Winona County Health and Human Services, obtained by Fox News Digital, Mr Fravel allegedly did not cooperate with authorities when they placed his two children on a 72-hour-hold after Ms Kingsbury went missing.

Father took the younger child into the residence and locked the door despite being told that the children were in the care and custody of Winona County, the document reads. While Father was in the home with the younger child, Social Worker could hear Father shouting expletives.

The document alleges that Mr Fravel called his attorney who advised him to take the children in the home so that they could not be removed. He also made threats to sue Winona County.

Eventually, when Mr Fravel placed his children into a vehicle, he refused to let social workers help put the kids into car seats and ended up putting them in the wrong car seats. He also refused to gather the childrens belongings so they left only with the clothes they were wearing.

Megan Kingsbury, the sister of Ms Kingsbury, confirmed to the public that Mr Fravel currently does not have custody of his children but assured people that they are safe and in good hands.

Who is Madeline Jane Kingsbury?

Saturday 15 April 2023 04:00 , Ariana Baio

Madeline Maddi Jane Kingsbury has been missing for two weeks.

The 26-year-old mother-of-two is from Winona Minnesota and disappeared mysteriously on 31 March after dropping her two young children off at daycare.

Ms Kingsbury has become the subject of national media attention as police, her family, and community members search for her.

Megan Kingsbury, the sister of Ms Kingsbury described her as a hardworking and dedicated mother.

Shes my best friend. She was really funny as a little kid. She liked to pick out her own clothes and they never matched. And she loved wearing dark red lipstick that was always on her teeth, Megan told ABC6 News.

Ms Kingsbury was knowingly close with her family. Her sister last heard from her around 8.15 am on the morning of her disappearance.

After her family couldnt get in contact with her during the day, they knew something was wrong.

Ms Kingsburys mother, Krista Naber, told News Nation, Madeline was just a hard-at-work mom, she took care of her two babies, she had started graduate school in January. Things were finally looking up for her.

Madeline Kingsbury (Winona Police)

Law enforcement say they are extremely concerned for Madeline Kingsburys safety

Saturday 15 April 2023 02:00 , Ariana Baio

On 12 April, the Winona Police Department provided an update about the disappearance of Madeline Maddi Kingsbury, nearly two weeks after the 26-year-old went missing.

Winona Police reiterated that evidence suggests Ms Kingsburys disappearance was involuntary and suspicious.

We remain extremely concerned for her safety, they wrote.

Mother of Madeline Kingsbury gives update on donations

Friday 14 April 2023 23:00 , Ariana Baio

Krista Naber, the mother of missing 26-year-old Madeline Kingsbury, gave GoFundMe donators an update on where their donations would be going.

The search continues for Madeline, Ms Naber wrote on 12 April. The family has been thankful for all of your donations to help keep the search for Maddi alive and moving forward.

In the description of the GoFundMe, the creator indicated donations would be going toward paying for the Kingsbury family to stay in hotels as they look for Ms Kingsbury.

But donations will also be used for Ms Kingsburys two young children, according to Ms Naber.

Megan Kingsbury says theyre still searching for her sister

Friday 14 April 2023 21:00 , Ariana Baio

Megan Kingsbury, the sister of missing 26-year-old Madeline Kingsbury, posted a TikTok video on 13 April, informing viewers that she and her family are still searching for Ms Kingsbury.

I was out searching with my mom for probably about three hours around Winona and then crossing over just into the border of Wisconsin on 35 - didnt find anything, Megan told viewers.

Father of Madeline Kingsburys children involved in custody dispute

Friday 14 April 2023 19:45 , Ariana Baio

Adam Fravel, the father of Madeline Kingsburys children, was involved in a custody dispute over his two children in the days following Ms Kingsburys disappearance.

Ariana Baio reports.

Father of Madeline Kingsburys children involved in custody dispute

Search continues for Madeline Kingsbury

Friday 14 April 2023 18:00 , Ariana Baio

The Finding Madeline Kingsbury Facebook Page told people on Friday, 14 April that they would be searching for Ms Kingsbury over the weekend via horseback.

We are beyond [grateful] and overwhelmed with the amount of equine volunteers that have reached out. Because of this we are working to best figure out where to utilize everyone. We are working with law enforcement to sort out a plan, please do not contact their offices to limit traffic to equine coordinators, admins, and law enforcement.

Ms Kingsbury has been missing for two weeks.

Adam Fravel involved in custody dispute

Friday 14 April 2023 16:23 , Ariana Baio

Adam Fravel, the father of missing 26-year-old Madeline Kingsbury, was involved in a custody dispute in the days after Ms Kingsburys disappearance.

According to a petition from the Winona County Health and Human Services, obtained by Fox News Digital, Mr Fravel allegedly did not cooperate with authorities when they placed his two children on a 72-hour-hold after Ms Kingsbury went missing.

Father took the younger child into the residence and locked the door despite being told that the children were in the care and custody of Winona County, the document reads. While Father was in the home with the younger child, Social Worker could hear Father shouting expletives.

The document alleges that Mr Fravel called his attorney who advised him to take the children in the home so that they could not be removed. He also made threats to sue Winona County.

Eventually, when Mr Fravel placed his children into a vehicle, he refused to let social workers help put the kids into car seats and ended up putting them in the wrong car seats. He also refused to gather the childrens belongings so they left only with the clothes they were wearing.

Megan Kingsbury, the sister of Ms Kingsbury, confirmed to the public that Mr Fravel currently does not have custody of his children but assured people that they are safe and in good hands.

Madeline Kingsburys mother gives update on donations

Friday 14 April 2023 14:00 , Ariana Baio

Krista Naber, the mother of missing 26-year-old Madeline Kingsbury gave GoFundMe donators an update on where their donations would be going toward

The search continues for Madeline, Ms Naber wrote. The family has been thankful for all of your donations to help keep the search for Maddi alive and moving forward.

In the description of the GoFundMe, the creator indicated donations would be going toward paying for the Kingsbury family to stay in hotels as they look for Ms Kingsbury.

But donations will also be used for Ms Kingsburys two young children, according to Ms Naber.

Ms Kingsbury was last seen dropping her children off at daycare on 31 March.

ICYMI: Father of Madeline Kingsburys children speaks out

Friday 14 April 2023 12:00 , Ariana Baio

Adam Fravel, the father of Madeline Kingsburys two children released a statement amid public speculation.

Over the course of the last 12 days my family and I have been subject to a myriad of accusations regarding the disappearance of the mother of my children, Maddi Kingsbury, the statement from Mr Fravel said.

I did not have anything to do with Maddis disappearance, he added.

Andrea Blanco and Ariana Baio report.

Father of Madeline Kingsburys kids speaks out almost two weeks after she vanished

WATCH: Megan Kingsbury give an update on her sisters disappearance

Friday 14 April 2023 10:00 , Ariana Baio

An update on Madeline Kingsburys van

Friday 14 April 2023 08:00 , Ariana Baio

Madeline Maddi Kingsburys dark blue Chrysler Town and Country van is currently being processed for evidence according to Winona Police.

The dark blue van is at the center of the investigation as law enforcement believes the whereabouts of the vehicle may lead to the location of Ms Kingsbury.

Theyve asked residents in Winona County and Fillmore County to check their home security cameras for any footage captured on 31 March or 1 April to see if they can spot the van.

Throughout the investigation, we have worked closely with the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA to identify and process any available forensic evidence, the Winona Police said in a press release.

We are following up on leads and paths of inquiry trying to get answers in this case.

(Finding Madeline Kingsbury Facebook Page)

Sister of Madeline Kingsbury says they are still looking

Friday 14 April 2023 06:00 , Ariana Baio

Megan Kingsbury, the sister of missing 26-year-old Madeline Kingsbury, posted a TikTok video informing viewers that she and her family are still searching for Ms Kingsbury.

I was out searching with my mom for probably about three hours around Winona and then crossing over just into the border of Wisconsin on 35 - didnt find anything, Megan told viewers.

Ms Kingsbury has been missing for nearly two weeks after dropping her children off at daycare on 31 March.
A.P. Moller-Maersk wants to provide more regional expertise for its Latin American clients as the shipping giant continues to expand its services beyond ocean freight under the guidance of new CEO Vincent Clerc.

Maersk opened a new Global Service Centre (GSC) in Mexico City to service the Americas region, as well as a dedicated satellite center in city of Santos in Brazils southeastern region. This comes after Maersk opened its seventh warehouse in South Americas biggest economy last September.

As Maersks shared services arm, GSC aims to support customers growing regional needs in individual markets. The Mexico City GSC will offer English, Spanish and Portuguese language support and process standardization to create a consistent customer experience across regions where Maersk operates.

Maersk said the centers will create over 700 new jobs in 2023 before nearly doubling to 1,300 positions by 2025. The two locations will employ staff in customer experience, finance, process management, technology and data/analytics roles.

We have consistently prioritized our customers and business needs and these new centers allow us to take this ambition even further, said Mohit Bhatia, head of Global Service Centres, Maersk, in a statement. The GSC in the Americas will have many exciting opportunities to reshape the way teams within Maersk work together and create success through collaboration beyond boundaries.

In recent years, Maersk has worked on becoming a global integrator of container logistics across transport nodes to broaden its solutions beyond its core ocean freight expertise.

An acquisition spree that started in 2021 includes Maersk scooping up Li & Fungs logistics business LF Logistics, bulky freight delivery services provider Pilot Freight Services, freight forwarding company Senator International and non-containerized project logistics firm Martin Bencher Group.

And in 2022, the company added 243 total warehouses, including 198 facilities from the LF Logistics acquisition and 45 new facilities out of organic growth. Maersk now operates 452 sites in total.

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The logistics expansion was reflected on Maersks balance sheet, with total revenue in the companys logistics and services branch (including acquisitions) increasing by 47 percent to $14.4 billion last year. When only including organic contributions, revenue still rose 21 percent. Maersk said its top 200 customers drove its organic revenue growth and it continues to develop integrated solutions to meet end-to-end supply chain needs.

Maersk GSC is an international endeavor, with the divisions facilities already spread across four sites in Bangalore, Chennai, Mumbai and Pune in India, as well as two in the Chinese cities of Chengdu and Chongqing. It also has facilities in Manila, The Philippines and Tangier, Morocco.

As part of our transformational journey to become increasingly customer centric, nearshoring some of our key customer processes close to where our customers are is another way of ensuring that we speak the same language as them, said Farheen Mahmud, head of GSC Americas, Maersk. Alongside, opening our hubs in the thriving cities of Brazil and Mexico filled with deep culture of service excellence will also provide fascinating opportunities to our Americas talent.

Maersk says the branchs teams interact with multiple stakeholders across A.P. Moller-Maersk to enable approximately 30 million touch points per year with over 59,000 customers.

The division oversees not only the strategic execution of finance and commercial processes, but also closely partners with the technology teams based out of Maersk GSC. For example, Maersk says that its GSCs offer end-to-end cross-functional perspective on process design and execution. This is enabled through centralized setup, driving towards standardization as it aims to ensure that there is a more consistent global customer and employee experience across locations.

Maersk expansion comes ahead of 2M dissolution

The freight giant, which is ending its 2M alliance with fellow container shipping titan MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company by 2025, has been busy trying to expand its geographic reach and overall competencies across global markets. Earlier this month, Maersk said it signed a new lease for a 685,000-square-foot facility at Segro Logistics Park East Midlands Gateway in Derby, England.

The newly built facility will be completed in June 2023 and is part of a 700-acre development by the U.K. real estate company Segro. The logistics park features the U.K.s only inland freeport as well as a 50-acre Strategic Rail Freight Interchange (SRFI) providing it with direct rail links to the seaports of Felixstowe, London Gateway and Southampton.

Maersk also addressed shifting consumer demand by extending its connections within China from both Europe and the U.S. As of March 20, its offered a new air freight service with scheduled flights between Billund, Denmark and Hangzhou, China. The inaugural flight also marked the first scheduled air cargo operation between Denmark and Asia.

This service includes three weekly flights with three newly converted Boeing 767-300 freighters that have recently been added to the fleet of Maersk Air Cargo. All Europe-China flights will be operated by Maersks internal cargo airline.

As for the U.S.-to-China service, Maersk introduced not one, but two new air freight services with regular flights linking the countries.

In April, Maersk commenced two weekly flights between South Carolinas Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport and Shenyang Taoxian International Airport, as well as two weekly flights between Chicago Rockford International Airport and Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport. Both services will be increased to three weekly flights starting in May.

The operation will be done with three Boeing 767-300 freighters, and will be operated by Miami-headquartered cargo airline, Amerijet International.

Those expansions came just months after Maersk announced its building a green flagship logistics center in Shanghai that should open for business by the third quarter of 2024.

Click here to read the full article.
Giulio Giaccio was kidnapped by false policemen, killed and dissolved in acid in July 2000

Two Italian gangsters accused of mistakenly murdering a man and dissolving his body in acid have offered his relatives tens of thousands of euros in compensation ahead of their trial.

Giulio Giaccio, 26, was shot in the head and dissolved in acid because the two men, allegedly members of the Camorra mafia in Naples, believed he was sleeping with the sister of one of them.

But it was a case of mistaken identity  Mr Giaccio had nothing to do with her or the Camorra clans that control organised crime in Naples.

The murder took place in 2000, but the two men were only arrested in December last year after police received information from a pentito  a former mafioso who became an informer.

Offer of cash

They now face trial for murder but it has emerged they offered the dead man's family cash in an apparent attempt to win clemency should they be found guilty.

In the Italian system, if the perpetrator of a crime offers compensation to a victim or the victims family, it can be considered as a mitigating factor when it comes to sentencing.

Salvatore Cammarota, 56, and Carlo Nappi, 64, who already have criminal records for the crime of mafia association, offered the family 60,000 plus property worth 120,000.

But the family have refused the offer, saying they want justice to take its course.

No money will bring back the life of Giulio. After 23 years, the family believes in the justice system, in which they have confidence, said Alessandro Motta, the familys lawyer.

Relatives want to see the most severe punishment handed down to the two defendants. They dont even have a body to mourn, he said.

The first hearing in the trial is scheduled for Wednesday.
Russian Air Force Su-27 jet fighters perform during the 2011 MAKS International Aviation and Space Salon in Zhukovsky. REUTERS/Sergei Karpukhin

A hair-raising encounter saw a Russian jet almost shoot down a British spy plane last year.

Incidents like this raise fears of NATO's Article 5 being triggered, leading to an all-out war.

In reality, countries have many alternatives before taking that fateful step, one expert says.

A hair-raising encounter between Russian and British military aircraft, which resurfaced in the news last week, raised the question of near-misses and whether a trigger-happy incident between global rivals could spill over into World War III.

On September 29 last year, a Russia Su-27 fighter jet fired on a UK surveillance plane in international airspace over the Black Sea, near Russian-occupied Crimea.

The British plane was unharmed, and the Kremlin assured the British Minister of Defense that there had been a "technical malfunction."

But it later emerged, per two anonymous intelligence sources who spoke to The New York Times, that the Russian pilot had misheard ground communications, and believed he had permission to fire.

Only a malfunction stopped the missile smashing into the plane.

Leaked Pentagon documents, circulated this month, also referred to the incident as a "near shoot-down."

The new reporting painted a much more serious picture of the incident, raising questions of what the international response would have been had it succeeded.

As a member of NATO, the UK adheres to the principle of collective defense, whereby  through Article 5  an attack on one member state can be interpreted as an attack on all.

Insider spoke to a former NATO officer and expert on international security to find out how incidents of this kind are handled at the highest level.

Diplomatic backchannels

It's often imagined that activating NATO Article 5 is an automatic process, with events ever-ready to spiral out of control.

In reality, it's a voluntary and vanishingly rare step that  even outside of the desire to avoid a massive war  countries have political incentives not to take, William Alberque, director of strategy, technology and arms control at the International Institute for Strategic Studies, told Insider.

Story continues

In fact, NATO countries generally want to demonstrate that they can defend themselves without having to turn to other member states for help, he said.

There's also an unspoken risk  if no other nation agreed to defend them "that would be really damaging," he added.

A Russian Su-27 fighter jet seen approaching a US MQ-9 Reaper drone over the Black Sea on March 14, 2023, in video released by the US military. US European Command

According to Alberque, the only time Article 5 was triggered was September 11, 2001, and even then the US was reluctant to use it because it didn't want it to be a NATO issue.

"They wanted US unilateral action to rule the day," he said.

In fact, throughout the Cold War there were instances of planes being shot down on both sides, and despite all this it never resulted in Article 5 being triggered.

And more recently, when a stray Ukrainian missile landed in Poland last year, killing two Poles and setting off an initial blame game between Russia and Ukraine, Poland also didn't want to invoke Article 5.

"Turns out they didn't even want Article 4. They just went in for a regular NATO consultation because they didn't think that it rose to the level of acute," Alberque said.

Article 4, which results in a consultation between all member states on what to do next, can be invoked when a country believes its security is threatened. It's been used seven times in NATO's history.

Russia's risky provocations

At the same time, Russia regularly needles its rivals by tailing their aircraft when they approach areas it considers sensitive, according to Alberque, who is also a former director of NATO's arms control unit.

"This is actually a political signal from Russia that they don't want you to be there," he said.

Alberque said this isn't unique to Russia  many countries conduct air intercepts. But "the problem with the Russians is they often do stupid stuff."

"When you fly near Crimea, when you fly near Kaliningrad, when you fly near St. Petersburg, they try to send aircraft out to intimidate you into backing off."

He added that this is often done on the instruction of the Kremlin, which has become more aggressive in its approach since 2013.

Alberque recalled an infamous encounter over the Baltic Sea in 2016, when armed Russian Su-24 fighter jets harassed the USS Donald Cook in international waters, coming within 30 feet of the ship at extremely low altitude.

An alternative to NATO's Article 5

Regarding the incident last year, even if a British pilot had died, the UK would likely have taken a long pause before rushing to invoke Article 5, Alberque says.

"There's going to be all kinds of reactions, there's going to be a debate in parliament," he says. "People will try to make political hay out of it, but wise leaders will say: 'No, this wasn't world war. Let's calm down here.'"

Meanwhile, the UK and Russia  like the US  are also signatories to a treaty known as INCSEA.

First ratified during the Cold War, it sets out a number of rules designed to prevent accidents in international waters and airspace.

In provocative situations like this, it offers a less aggressive channel, where UK authorities could have reminded Moscow of its right to fly over international waters and of the risk of triggering a war.

Or, in Alberque's words, rather than Article 5, the UK could have used INCSEA to consult with Russia and simply say: "'What the fuck happened here?'"

Read the original article on Business Insider
CAIRO, April 18 (Xinhua) -- Egypt's flag carrier EgyptAir on Tuesday said it will continue the suspension of its flight to and from Sudan's Khartoum International Airport due to the continuous instability in Sudan.

In a statement, EgyptAir said, "the suspension will continue until further notice."

On Saturday, EgyptAir said flights to and from the Khartoum International Airport would be grounded for 72 hours after clashes erupted between the Sudanese army and its paramilitary Rapid Support Forces.

A UN envoy to Sudan said that the clashes in Sudan have killed 185 people and wounded another 1,800 as of Monday. 
Map of Mali

Once home to several pre-colonial empires, the landlocked, arid West African country of Mali is one of the largest on the continent. For centuries, its northern city of Timbuktu was a key regional trading post and centre of Islamic culture.

After independence from France in 1960, Mali suffered droughts, rebellions, and 23 years of military dictatorship until democratic elections in 1992.

In 2013, France intervened militarily at the government's request, but a jihadist insurgency in the north and central regions has since gathered pace.

Mali is renowned worldwide for having produced some of the stars of African music, most notably Salif Keita.

Read more country profiles - Profiles by BBC Monitoring

REPUBLIC OF MALI: FACTS

Capital: Bamako

Area: 1,240,192 sq km

Population: 21.4 million

Languages: French, plus Bambara, Dogon, Fulfulde, Manding, Arabic, Tuareg

Life expectancy: 57 years (men) 59 years (women)

LEADERS

Interim head of state: Assimi Goita

Mali military leader Assimi Goita

The military council that seized power in August 2020 is led by Colonel Assimi Goita.

At first he put an interim president and prime minister in place, but ousted them in May 2021 in a dispute over their attempt to replace two Goita allies in the cabinet.

West African leaders have expressed concern over the lack of opposition and civilian representation in the planned transition to elections.

Mali is struggling with a jihadist insurgency that has made much of the north and east ungovernable.

MEDIA

The great mosque of Djenne is one of the continent's most notable landmarks

The media environment in Bamako and the south is relatively open, but the presence of armed groups in the north poses dangers for media workers, says Freedom House.

Radio is the leading medium. There are hundreds of stations, run by the state as well as by private operators.

TIMELINE

The Niger River serves as the country's main transport and trade artery

Some key dates in Mali's history:

300-1200s - Much of Mali is part of the Ghana Empire, the first of three major West African empires that controlled trans-Saharan trade in gold, salt, other precious commodities - and slaves.

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c.1226-1670 - Battle of Krina in 1234 marks the rise of the Mali Empire, which becomes dominant force in the upper Niger basin.

c. 1464-1591 - Songhai Empire, as the Mali Empire loses some of its power, losing its dominance of the gold trade, the Songhai Empire gradually gains control over the eastern half of the Mali Empire.

1591 - The Battle of Tondibi. Songhai forces decisively defeated by the army of the Saadi dynasty in Morocco, who make Timbuktu their capital. The fall of the Songhai Empire marks the end of the region's role as a trading crossroads. Area splinters into smaller kingdoms.

1898 - France completes conquest of Mali, then called French Sudan.

1958 - French Sudan, which changes its name to the Sudanese Republic, becomes an autonomous republic within the French Community.

1959 - Mali and Senegal unite to become the Mali Federation.

1960 - Mali Federation gains independence from France. Senegal swiftly withdraws from the federation, allowing the Sudanese Republic to become the independent Republic of Mali, with Modibo Keita as president. It becomes a one-party, socialist state.

1968 - Following economic decline, Keita is overthrown in a coup led by Moussa Traore, who sets up a military-led regime and represses political opposition and protests.

1980s - Some limited political liberalization.

1991 - March revolution; President Traore arrested. Opposition parties are legalized and a constitution is approved.

2012 - Tuareg rebellion in northern Mali, led by the National Movement for the Liberation of Azawad (MNLA).

Coup, after which Islamist groups including Ansar Dine and Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), who had helped the MNLA defeat the government, turn on the Tuareg and capture several towns.

France intervenes militarily and recaptures key towns.

2015 onwards - Conflict in central Mali between agriculturalists like the Dogon and the Bambara, and pastoralists like the Fula (or Fulani) over access to land and water. These factors which have been exacerbated by climate change as the Fula move into new areas.

2020 - Malian army led by Colonel Assimi Goita and Colonel-Major Ismael Wague oust President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita in a coup. A political transition to civilian rule is agreed.

2021 - Tensions between civilian politicians and the military in the interim administration lead to another coup, led by Assimi Goita. Neighbouring states impose sanctions

2022 - France withdraws its troops from Mali. Mali's government strengthens its links with Moscow, with mercenaries from the Wagner group deployed in the country.
Police Departments across the country are experiencing a shortage of officers.

Some in the Miami Valley are asking for voters to approve levies in the May second primary to help increase their staff. One of those levis is on the ballot in Miami Township.

>> Classes cancelled at Tipp City Schools Friday for funeral of student who died after brief illness

News Center 7s Kayla McDermott talked with the Miami Township Police Chief about the levy and the hopes those living in the township will back their levy.

Police Chief Charlie Stiegelmeyer said no one wants to be an officer anymore.

I dont know if I can blame them, Stiegelmeyer said

>> Benadryl Challenge takes the life of 13-year-old Ohio boy

The lack of perspective police officers is stretching his force thin.

We have 32 sworn officers, and that includes myself as well as my command staff. Were losing at the recruitment war, Stiegelmeyer said

Stiegelmeyer said he would like around 45 or 50 officers on the force. To increase patrol, the chief hope voters greenlight a 5.75 mill levy. The levy would raise taxes to just over $6.00 monthly or about $70.00 yearly.

>> Person in critical condition after being trapped inside burning Dayton house

Our goal is to this is to stabilize my workforce, retain the good quality, professional people that I have, and I want us to become a recruiting point, Stiegelmeyer said

The force handles roughly 30,000 calls to the police a year, which is about 3,000 calls a month, and with only 20 officers, that is about 150 calls for each officer a month.

The levy would generate about $800,000.00 a year and would increase officers salaries, benefits, and equipment, but most importantly, Chief Stiegelmeyer says it would help the people.

>> Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin medically cleared to return to football after cardiac arrest

I was a resident of Miami Township, I had to ask myself for this for mere fact of $6 a month or $73 a year; could I afford not to have this levy come to maintain the police service that I have? I think thats the best question to ask yourself, Stiegelmeyer said

Story continues

If this levy passes, it will be continuous, meaning residents will never have to vote on it again unless they want the levy to end.








Andrew D. Lester, the man accused of shooting 16-year-old Ralph Yarl, surrendered to police custody. About time.

On Tuesday afternoon, Lester walked into the Clay County jail and turned himself in, local authorities said. How gracious of him. Kansas City police showed the public little interest in holding Lester accountable for the unspeakable act hes accused of. He was released after posting bond.

Police investigators really messed up, didnt they? What were they thinking, letting Lester go free two hours after he allegedly pumped two rounds into the unsuspecting teen?

Despite being charged Monday with one count each of first-degree assault and armed criminal action, Ralphs alleged attacker remained free until Tuesday afternoon.

Lesters surrender to Clay County authorities came about a day after prosecutors issued a warrant for his arrest. For almost a day, he was nowhere to be found.

Yes, you read that correctly. The 84-year-old man who allegedly used a happy trigger finger to shoot Ralph, an honor student at Staley High School, remained at large nearly a day after felony charges were filed against him.

And neither the Kansas City Police Department or the Clay County sheriffs office knew where Lester was, the agencies told reporters Tuesday afternoon.

How is that even possible?

The suspect never should have been released from custody without legal consequences to begin with. After Thursdays shooting in Kansas Citys Northland, Lester told police he shot Ralph twice within seconds of seeing the teen on his porch in the 1100 block of Northeast 115th Street, according to a probable cause statement filed in the case.

As if it wasnt bad enough that authorities released Lester two hours after he shot the teen in the head and arm for ringing the wrong doorbell, we have now learned it apparently takes days of protests and a media firestorm for Kansas City police to act with urgency.

A white man shot an unarmed Black teen and remained free for days. When community leaders and activists say Ralph and his family deserve better, clearly the bungled arrest of the perpetrator is evidence that justice is being served slowly.
Man with phone and computer

A member of staff at a sensitive government organisation has appeared in court accused of risking national security by downloading top secret information.

Hasaan Arshad is charged with an offence under the Computer Misuse Act after an investigation led by the Metropolitan Polices Counter Terrorism Command.

The 23-year-old appeared at Westminster Magistrates Court on Tuesday accused of transferring sensitive data from a top secret computer onto his phone and then taking it home.

He appeared in the dock wearing dark jeans and a black parka coat and spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address in Rochdale, Greater Manchester.

The court heard Mr Arshad had been employed by a sensitive government organisation before his arrest in September last year when his home was searched.

The identity of the organisation Mr Arshad worked at was not revealed in court.

'Top secret'

Prosecutors allege that before leaving his job on August 24, Mr Arshad took his work mobile phone into a top secret area and connected the device to a top secret workstation.

It is then alleged he transferred sensitive data from a secure top secret computer to the phone before taking it home and transferring the information to a hard drive connected to his personal home computer.

Top secret is the classification for the Governments most sensitive information, where compromise might cause widespread loss of life or threaten the security or economic wellbeing of the country or friendly nations, according to Ministry of Justice security guidance.

Mr Arshad was not asked to enter a plea to a single charge under Section 32A of the Computer Misuse Act 1990 relating to unauthorised acts causing, or creating risk of, serious damage.

The charge said: Between August 23, 2022 and September 23, 2022 (he) did an unauthorised act in relation to a computer and at the time of doing the act knew that it was unauthorised; and the act caused, or created a significant risk of, serious damage of a material kind, this being damage to the national security of a country; and he intended by doing the act to cause serious damage of a material kind or was reckless as to whether such damage was caused.

Story continues

Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring granted Mr Arshad conditional bail ahead of his next appearance at the Old Bailey on May 5.

He said the defendant must live and sleep at his home address, must not leave or attempt to leave the UK mainland, and must notify the police of any internet-enabled device in his possession.

He is banned from using anonymous internet browsing tools including VPN and Onion routing, or accessing darknet systems such as Tor.
The man accused of shooting Kansas City teenager Ralph Yarl after the youth mistakenly came to his door to pick up his siblings has posted bond and was released from jail, records updated Tuesday afternoon show.

Andrew Lester, 84, was charged Monday with first-degree assault and armed criminal action in Clay County. Bond was set at $200,000 and Lester is prohibited from having weapons of any type, court records said.

Just after 1 p.m. Tuesday, the Clay County Sheriffs Office said Lester had surrendered and was in the process of being booked in.

According to VINELink, a custody database, Lester bonded out Tuesday afternoon.

On Thursday, Yarl had knocked on the wrong door when he went to pick up his twin brothers.

Court documents said Lester answered the door holding a gun and shot the 16-year-old twice, striking his head and right arm. The Staley High School junior sought help at three homes before someone assisted him, family members said.

Police responded to the shooting, and Lester was taken into custody. He was released within two hours with no charges filed.

Over the weekend, the shooting received national attention as celebrities and politicians called for racial justice and gun reform.

When Clay County Prosecutor Zachary Thompson announced the charges Monday, he was asked if race was a factor and said yes, but declined to elaborate.

Yarls father said his son had been released from the hospital and was recovering at home.

On Tuesday, President Joe Biden said on social media, No parent should have to worry that their kid will be shot after ringing the wrong doorbell. Weve got to keep up the fight against gun violence. And Ralph, well see you in the Oval once you feel better.
Andrew Lester appears in court to answer charges of first-degree assault and armed criminal action on Wednesday, April 19, 2023 in Liberty, Mo. Lester, 84, accused of shooting Ralph Yarl, a Black teenager, pleaded not guilty. | KMBC pool photo via Associated Press

Ralph Yarl was trying to pick up his younger brothers from their friends house on April 13 in Kansas City, Missouri, when he mixed up the address and showed up at the wrong house. When the 16-year-old rang the doorbell, he was met by the owner of the house, who opened the door and shot Yarl in the head, according to prosecutors.

Andrew D. Lester, the 84-year-old homeowner, pleaded not guilty to felony charges in relation to the shooting on Wednesday, per NBC News.

After being shot, Yarl was able to make it to the house of a neighbor, who called for help.

Lester was taken into custody by the police for 24 hours, then released without charges on Friday, The New York Times reported. But then on Monday, he was charged with assault.

Yarl is recovering at home and reports expect him to make a full physical recovery. A GoFundMe fundraiser has raised nearly $3.2 million that his aunt says will go towards his medical bills and therapy, and any additional funds will go toward his education at Texas A&M University, according to BBC.

Protests erupt over the weekend over the shooting of Ralph Yarl

Protests erupted over the weekend over the incident, with protesters marching to Lesters home on Sunday. Yarl is a 16-year-old Black teenager who is an honor student and all-state band member.

This undated photo provided by Ben Crump Law on Monday, April 17, 2023, shows Ralph Yarl, the teenager shot by a homeowner in Kansas City, Mo. | Ben Crump Law via Associated Press

Lester is a white man, and the prosecutor on the case, Zachary Thompson, said: There was a racial component to the case, per the Times.

With a conviction, the charge could deliver a life sentence to Lester.

Thompson said Yarl did not cross the threshold of Lesters home, and Yarl told police in the hospital that Lester told him, Dont come around here, Reuters reported.

Missouris stand your ground law does allow homeowners to use physical force to defend themselves against suspected intruders, but the defendant will have to prove that he believed the threat from Yarl was necessary enough to use a gun to protect himself, per Reuters.

The shooting has put renewed focus on stand your ground laws around the country, NBC News reported.

Story continues

Doug and I are praying for Ralph Yarl and his family as he fights for his life.



Let's be clear: No child should ever live in fear of being shot for ringing the wrong doorbell.



Every child deserves to be safe. Thats the America we are fighting for.  Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) April 17, 2023

Vice President Kamala Harris tweeted, No child should ever live in fear of being shot for ringing the wrong doorbell.

The civil rights attorneys for Yarl, Ben Crump and Lee Merritt, said in a statement, Gun violence against unarmed Black individuals must stop. Our children should feel safe, not as though they are being hunted, per ABC News.

Woman shot and killed after pulling into the wrong driveway in upstate New York

On Saturday, 20-year-old Kaylin Gillis was looking for a friends house in rural upstate New York, along with three other friends. She accidentally pulled into the wrong driveway and was shot and killed by a man sitting on his front porch, authorities said, according to CNN.

Kaylin Gillis, 20, was shot to death in upstate New York when she accidentally drove into wrong driveway while searching for a friends house. Kevin Monahan, 65, is being held in the Warren County Jail on second-degree murder charges. https://t.co/XxBngfBFq8  Shannon Watts (@shannonrwatts) April 17, 2023

On Monday, 65-year-old Kevin Monahan was charged with second-degree murder in connection to Gillis death, per CNN.

Theres clearly no threat from anyone in the vehicle, Washington County Sheriff Jeffrey Murphy said, per BBC. Theres no reason for Mr. Monahan to feel threatened.

Two cheerleaders shot after one tried getting into the wrong car

Two teenage cheerleaders were shot in a supermarket parking lot after one attempted to get into the wrong car, thinking it was hers.

One of the girls was shot twice and was critically injured in the incident, while the other was treated at the scene. Payton Washington is currently hospitalized in critical condition, CNN reported.

In this photo provided by Baylor University, Payton Washington poses in an undated photo wearing Baylor University attire. Washington was one of two cheerleaders shot and wounded by a man in a Texas supermarket parking lot after one of them said she mistakenly got into his car thinking it was her own. | Baylor University via Associated Press

Fellow cheerleader Heather Roth opened the car door thinking it was hers after carpooling to practice and saw a man in the passenger seat, so she started to get out of the car to go back with her friends. The man was identified by police as 25-year-old Pedro Tello Rodriguez Jr.

According to NPR, Roth said the man approached their vehicle, and she had just rolled down her window to apologize when he started shooting.

Heather Shearer, managing partner of the Woodlands Elite Cheer Company, where the girls train, said Washington experienced a ruptured spleen, which got removed, but she also told CNN she is expected to make a full physical recovery.

I know mental wounds also leave scars, Felecia Mulkey, head acrobatics and tumbling coach at Baylor University, where Washington had committed to compete in the fall, told CNN. We want to lift up the athletes and their families during this difficult time. We love Payton and we wish her well as she recovers.
Details remain sparse after an elderly Florida man was found dead inside a burning car near the Beaufort-Jasper county line, according to officials from the Jasper County Coroners Office and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division.

Michael J. Caponero, 86, of Tampa, was pronounced dead at the scene Saturday, Jasper County Coroner Willie P. Aiken III announced. The car, a Jeep Liberty, was found engulfed in flames on the side of Kress Road, which connects I-95 and Highway 17 just south of Yemassee.

Neither the burning car nor Caponeros body showed signs of foul play, according to Chief Jeff Crosby, spokesperson for the Jasper County Sheriffs Office. There was no one else in the Jeep, which was parked on the side of the road and did not seem to have been involved in a crash, he said.

Crosby would not offer specifics about the cause of the fire. Although SLEDs Arson Unit was asked to assist, the incident is not necessarily being investigated as an arson, he said.

Speaking with police, family said Caponero had not been acting abnormally prior to his death. The 86-year-old had just visited one of his sons in Jacksonville, and was thought to be driving north to visit another before his car was found in northern Jasper County.

A representative from the Jasper County Coroners Office could not immediately be reached for comment. The Jasper County Sheriffs Office and SLED are investigating the death.
A man has been arraigned on murder charges in connection to the killing of a married couple found bludgeoned to death in their Marshfield home and also killing the couples dog, Plymouth County District Attorney Tim Cruz said Tuesday.

Christopher Keeley, 28, pleaded not guilty in Brocton Superior Court on two counts of murder in the deaths of Carl and Vicki Mattson, both 70 years-old. He is currently being held without bail, according to Cruz.

On Nov. 29, 2022, at approximately 9:19 p.m., Marshfield Police received a call requesting a well-being check at a home at 75 Gotham Hill Drive. When officers arrived, they found the bodies of a man and a woman with obvious signs of trauma. The Mattsons, who were bludgeoned and stabbed, were declared dead at the scene.

Officers found the home to be quiet with no motor vehicle in the driveway, and no sign of Keeley. Marshfield Police further contacted a family member of the Mattsons who told police Keeley had not lived at that residence for some time.

25 Investigates: Marshfield double murder suspects criminal history uncovered

Massachusetts State Police Commonwealth Fusion Center issued a BOLO alert for Keeley, and a 2019 black Jeep Wrangler. Investigators recovered and secured the Jeep, which was not occupied, in an Avon parking lot.

On Dec. 2, 2022, Keeley was taken into custody in Miami Beach, Florida for an unrelated incident.

Working with Massachusetts State Police, authorities in Florida detained Keeley on the Massachusetts warrant for two counts of murder. Keeley waived his right to rendition in Florida, and Massachusetts State Police returned him to Massachusetts on Dec. 16, 2022.

Keeley was additionally arraigned on one count each of Misuse of a Credit Card, Larceny of a Motor Vehicle, and Animal Cruelty, for killing the Mattsons dog. He is next scheduled to appear in Plymouth Superior Court on June 29.

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
A man kidnapped and sexually assaulted his ex-girlfriend before she seized his car and escaped, sending him on a rampage involving arson and a high-speed police chase to get revenge, federal prosecutors said.

Now, hell spend decades in prison nearly nine years after the multistate crime spree between Pennsylvania and New Jersey in June 2014, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of New Jersey.

Luis Figueroa, 42, of the Bronx, New York, was sentenced to 43 years in prison after he was found guilty of kidnapping, criminal sexual abuse, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, and assaulting a U.S. federal employee, the attorneys office announced in and April 17 news release. The prison term will be followed by five years of supervised release.

He previously pleaded guilty to arson and possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon, officials said.

Figueroa deliberately engaged in a premeditated crime spree to extact revenge on the mother of his son. Fueled with anger, he kidnapped, assaulted and raped her, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger said in a statement.

When his ex escaped him in New Jersey, Figueroa went on to attack a federal employee, set a car dealership on fire and slammed his car into multiple police cars during a chase, according to prosecutors.

McClatchy News contacted Figueroas attorney for comment on April 18 and didnt immediately receive a response.

How the crime spree unfolded

The case dates to when Figueroa waited with a shotgun outside his ex-girlfriends apartment in Hazleton, Pennsylvania, the morning of June 6, 2014, prosecutors said.

When she came out, Figueroa is accused of hitting her in the face with the gun.

I told you I was going to kill you, he said before attacking her and her sister, who was eight months pregnant, according to prosecutors.

The child of Figueroa and his ex-girlfriend was there at the time of this assault, prosecutors said. Another family member led the child into a bedroom to protect them from seeing the attack, which resulted in the sister falling down the stairs, according to officials.

Story continues

Afterward, Figueroa kidnapped his ex and drove to New Jersey with her in the backseat of his SUV, the release said.

At some point, he pulled over at the Kittatinny Point Visitors Center near the Delaware Water Gap and sexually assaulted the woman, according to prosecutors.

The ex-girlfriend escapes and the rampage ensues, officials say

Figueroas ex-girlfriend escaped after she persuaded him to get rid of his shotgun, prosecutors said.

As he was away from the SUV, she got in the drivers seat and drove off, according to officials.

Upon realizing his ex-girlfriend and his SUV was gone, he attacked a nearby National Park Service employee, prosecutors said,

He approached the employee and then lured them to a storage room at the visitors center and slammed (his) head against a door, according to officials.

Figueroa threatened the employee into giving him car keys, stole his car and drove away to a used car dealership in Paterson, New Jersey, prosecutors said.

The car dealership was run by someone who Figueroa had a business relationship with, officials said.

Ultimately, Figueroa got a hold of a gas canister, doused the car dealerships office with gasoline and struggled with a worker before setting the place ablaze, according to prosecutors. The car dealerships office burned down as a result.

Afterward, he got in another car and drove toward the George Washington Bridge heading into New York City while driving erratically, prosecutors said.

Police officers noticed and pursued Figueroa, who ended up hitting several officers vehicles with the car he was driving, officials said.

Then, he got out of the car and ran away before police officers caught up and arrested him, according to the release.

He was convicted of the charges after a two-week trial in May 2022, according to prosecutors.

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[Source]

The Delaware man who broke the thumb off a priceless terracotta warrior statue lent to the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia by China in December 2017 has pleaded guilty to a federal misdemeanor charge.

Michael Rohana, 29, of Bear, Delaware, pleaded guilty to one count of trafficking in archaeological resources in a Pennsylvania court on Monday. The misdemeanor charge could earn Rohana one year in jail when hes sentenced on Aug. 17.

Rohanas Monday charge was reportedly closer to what his attorney had previously argued for and carried much fewer penalties than his initial charge.

Rohana was first charged with the theft and concealment of an object of cultural heritage from a museum and interstate transportation of stolen property, which carried a total maximum penalty of 30 years in prison when he was arrested in 2018.

More from NextShark: China locks down third city, Anyang, raising total in strict quarantine to 20 million

Prosecutors then charged Rohana under the federal art theft statute at his trial the following year. An individual can be charged under the law if the item stolen meets the threshold of being either at least 100 years old and worth more than $5,000 or worth at least $100,000.

Under this law, Rohana could have faced a maximum prison sentence of 10 years and a fine.

His attorneys, public defenders Catherine C. Henry and Nancy MacEoin, argued that the statute is only applicable for art thieves, as Rohanas case was the first time the law was applied to a person whose motive was to vandalize, not for financial gain.

More from NextShark: NYPD Looking For Attacker Who Repeatedly Punched and Bit Asian Man's Fingers

These charges were made for art thieves  think like Oceans Eleven or Mission: Impossible, Henry said during her closing argument in the 2019 trial, adding that the man wasnt in ninja clothing sneaking around the museum. He was a drunk kid in a bright green ugly Christmas sweater.

Story continues

Another factor that lessened Rohanas sentence was the actual value of the terracotta warriors thumb.

Jurors were left confused after art appraisers disagreed over the thumbs value, as the prosecution argued the thumb was worth more than $150,000.

More from NextShark: Japanese filmmaker sentenced to 7 years in jail by Myanmar junta

Meanwhile, the defense said it should be lower than the federal art theft law threshold, explaining that the terracotta warrior statue, known as The Cavalryman, was initially found in pieces and assembled by archeologists for display, making the recent damage insignificant.

As part of the plea deal with prosecutors, Rohanas defense team and the prosecutors agreed to set the value of the finger at $500.

Rohana was caught in the act by a security camera at the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia while attending an ugly sweater party in December 2017.

More from NextShark: Japanese woman claims her husband played sex tape of her and ex-husband at stepdaughters wedding

Investigators learned through the footage that Rohana, who was 24 at that time, sneaked inside a closed-off section of the museum during a drunken excursion. The security camera caught him taking selfies with the terracotta warrior statue worth around $4.5 million.

The drunken trip ended with Rohana breaking the thumb off the ancient statue, believed to be around 2,000 years old, and taking it back to his parents home, where he still lives.

The incident ignited outrage in China, with Chinese officials demanding the man face severe punishment for the crime.

The incident also prompted the City Council of Philadelphia to apologize for what happened.

The Franklin Institute in Philadelphia was one of the only two museums in the U.S. that China chose to host the traveling exhibit for the terracotta warriors statue found in the tomb of Chinas first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, in Xian, Shaanxi province, in 1974. The other exhibit in 2017 was at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in Richmond.
People gather at a landslide site in northwest Pakistan's Torkham on April 18, 2023. Eight people were injured and scores of others went missing under the rubbles following a land sliding at the Torkham border in Pakistan's northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Tuesday, rescue sources said. (Str/Xinhua)

ISLAMABAD, April 18 (Xinhua) -- Eight people were injured and scores of others went missing under the rubbles following a land sliding at the Torkham border in Pakistan's northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Tuesday, rescue sources said.

The incident happened at about 3:50 a.m. local time due to lightning at the border area near Afghanistan, sources from the state-owned Rescue 1122 told Xinhua.

"It was a massive land sliding, and part of a mountain caved in when the lightning struck it, trapping dozens of trucks waiting to cross the border," the sources added.

Earlier in a statement, Rescue 1122 said that several vehicles caught fire after the landslide, adding that initially three ambulances from the nearby camp of the rescue organization were dispatched to the site.

The statement said that judging from the magnitude of the incident, ambulances and firefighters from other parts of the province have also been called in.

About 60 rescue workers are taking part in the operation, and all resources are being used to recover the trapped people from the rubbles, the statement added. 

Rescuers search for victims at a landslide site in northwest Pakistan's Torkham on April 18, 2023. Eight people were injured and scores of others went missing under the rubbles following a land sliding at the Torkham border in Pakistan's northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Tuesday, rescue sources said. (Str/Xinhua)

People discover a victim at a landslide site in northwest Pakistan's Torkham on April 18, 2023. Eight people were injured and scores of others went missing under the rubbles following a land sliding at the Torkham border in Pakistan's northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Tuesday, rescue sources said. (Photo by Saeed Ahmad/Xinhua)

People search for victims at a landslide site in northwest Pakistan's Torkham on April 18, 2023. Eight people were injured and scores of others went missing under the rubbles following a land sliding at the Torkham border in Pakistan's northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Tuesday, rescue sources said. (Photo by Saeed Ahmad/Xinhua)

Heavy machinery remove a container at a landslide site in northwest Pakistan's Torkham on April 18, 2023. Eight people were injured and scores of others went missing under the rubbles following a land sliding at the Torkham border in Pakistan's northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Tuesday, rescue sources said. (Str/Xinhua)

People search for victims at a landslide site in northwest Pakistan's Torkham on April 18, 2023. Eight people were injured and scores of others went missing under the rubbles following a land sliding at the Torkham border in Pakistan's northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Tuesday, rescue sources said. (Photo by Saeed Ahmad/Xinhua)

People search for victims at a landslide site in northwest Pakistan's Torkham on April 18, 2023. Eight people were injured and scores of others went missing under the rubbles following a land sliding at the Torkham border in Pakistan's northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Tuesday, rescue sources said. (Photo by Saeed Ahmad/Xinhua)

Rescuers search for victims at a landslide site in northwest Pakistan's Torkham on April 18, 2023. Eight people were injured and scores of others went missing under the rubbles following a land sliding at the Torkham border in Pakistan's northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Tuesday, rescue sources said. (Str/Xinhua)

An excavator removes debris at a landslide site in northwest Pakistan's Torkham on April 18, 2023. Eight people were injured and scores of others went missing under the rubbles following a land sliding at the Torkham border in Pakistan's northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Tuesday, rescue sources said. (Photo by Saeed Ahmad/Xinhua)
A Bronx man who committed a premeditated crime spree that began in Pennsylvania and ended with burning down a car dealership office in Paterson in 2014 was sentenced Monday to 43 years in prison.

Luis Figueroa, 42, was found guilty of kidnapping, criminal sexual abuse, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, and assaulting an employee of the United States, after a two-week trial in front of a federal judge in May 2022.

He previously pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and arson.

U.S. Attorney Philip Sellinger called Figueroa "a danger to the public."

According to a press release from the Office of the U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey, Figueroa waited outside the apartment of his ex-girlfriend in Hazleton, Pennsylvania, with a shotgun, hitting her in the face when she came out.

Several agencies, including AFT, State Fire Marshall, investigate the scene of a fire at Hosanna Motors in Paterson in June 2014.

He said, "I told you I was going to kill you," and physically assaulted her and her sister, who was eight months pregnant at the time, causing the sister to fall down a flight of stairs. A family member took the child the victim shared with Figueroa into a bedroom to protect them, the release said.

Figueroa forced his ex-girlfriend into the back seat of a red SUV, drove her to the Kittatinny Point Visitor Center and sexually assaulted her. His ex-girlfriend convinced Figueroa to get rid of the shotgun and escaped by driving away in the SUV when he went to get rid of it.

When he saw that the vehicle and his ex-girlfriend were gone, Figueroa assaulted a National Park Service employee by slamming his head against a door and threatened to harm him if he didn't hand over his car keys, the release said.

After stealing the car, Figueroa drove to Paterson to Hosanna Motors on Totowa Avenue.

He asked for a gas can, left to fill it with gasoline and then covered the office with gas, before struggling with an employee and lighting the building and himself on fire.

North Jersey news Bergen County's new tech high school breaks ground; to open in 2025

Story continues

Hosanna's owners told NorthJersey.com that they had been subletting a portion of a lot they owned on West Broadway to Figueroa and he was mad they evicted him from the other dealership.

He stole another car and led police on a high-speed chase after he was seen erratically driving toward the George Washington Bridge, the release said. He injured a police officer when he rammed the stolen car into multiple police cars. He was arrested after he tried to flee on foot.

"Figueroa deliberately engaged in a premeditated crime spree to extract revenge on the mother of his son. Fueled with anger, he kidnapped, assaulted and raped her. Along the way, he assaulted a federal employee, stole his car, burned down a car dealership office and endangered law enforcement officers and members of the public who were in his way," Sellinger said.

Figueroa was also sentenced to five years of supervised release.

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Bronx man sentenced for burning down Paterson NJ car dealership
The man accused of gunning down a security guard during a bank robbery in East St. Louis was sentenced Tuesday to 50 years in a federal prison.

Jaylan Quinn, 23, pleaded guilty to one count of bank robbery and one count of using a firearm to commit murder for shooting and killing security guard Ted Horn, 56, during the heist at First Bank, 350 River Park Drive, on Aug. 27, 2021.

In addition to 50 years in prison, a judge for the U.S. Court for the Southern District of Illinois ordered Quinn to serve an additional five years of supervised release and pay restitution of $7,280.

Although this sentence wont bring back Ted Horn, its a small sigh of relief that the man responsible for taking his life will spend the foreseeable future in federal prison for his crimes, said U.S. Attorney Rachelle Aud Crowe. Swift action by the FBI, the Illinois State Police and the East St. Louis Police Department led to this successful investigation, and I applaud their efforts to remove this dangerous, uncivilized criminal from society.

Horn, a resident of St. Libory, grew up in Belleville and graduated from Belleville West High School. He had been a security guard at First Bank for about 11 years. He previously was stationed at the U. S. Attorneys office in Fairview Heights for 14 years, according to his obituary.

Horn is survived by his wife of 35 years, Jana L. Horn, two adult sons, three grandchildren, and his mother, Rosalie Horn.

Jana Horn didnt want to comment on the sentence or trial other than to say shes relieved its behind her.

I just really dont want people to forget about who Ted was, she said by telephone. He was one of those people who would do anything for anybody. He was a quiet man, but he was a really funny man once you got to know him.

Ted was a great father and a great husband. We were going on 36 years of marriage. You just dont see that much anymore. But he was someone that I could always rely on.

According to court documents, Quinn and an accomplice, Andrew R. Brinkley, 21, entered the bank wearing masks about 4 p.m. They approached a teller with a note that read: I got a bomb strapped to my chest - Pull all the money in or everyone die.

Story continues

Horn attempted to stop the robbers, but Brinkley was able to push past him and head for the door.

Quinn struggled with Horn before drawing a semi-automatic handgun and shooting him in the head, the court records say. Quinn and Brinkley then fled in a white Lexus sedan. Horn was pronounced dead at the scene.

Quinn and Brinkley were identified through bank surveillance video. A St. Louis man also approached a police officer with a photo FBI had released from the bank video and identified one of the suspects as his son Andrew.

By 2 p.m. the next day, FBI agents arrested them both at Brinkleys St. Louis apartment, the search of which led to the recovery of a 9mm handgun, and clothing that matched witness descriptions.

They also found two marked $20 bills taken during the First Bank robbery. A white Lexus sedan was found parked at the residence, the court records.

An Illinois State Police forensic lab later recovered Brinkleys finger prints on the robbery demand note, the FBI affidavit said.

The robbery cost First Bank about $1,140, according to the FBI.

Surveillance video showed Quinn and Brinkley twice tried to enter Busey Bank in Fairmont City wearing masks the day before the fatal shooting, according to an FBI affidavit.

Todays significant sentence reflects the severity of Jaylan Quinns actions. And while it brings a conclusion to this case, the loss experienced by the family of Ted Horn will last a lifetime, FBI Springfield Field Office Special Agent in Charge David Nanz said. We hope that in some way todays sentence provides a degree of comfort for the victims family.

Brinkley was sentenced to 20 years in prison on Jan. 12, 2023. He was ordered to pay $7,280 in restitution and will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.

The FBI-Springfield Field Office led the investigation with assistance from the Illinois State Police and the East St. Louis Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Laura Reppert and Ali Burns prosecuted the case.
A Michigan man is accused of shooting three people, including two teenagers, after his food order was delivered to the wrong home, officials said.

The shooting happened before 9 p.m. on April 13 in a northwest Detroit neighborhood, according to an April 17 news release from the Wayne County Prosecutors Office.

After his food was dropped off at the wrong house, 32-year-old Deon Ray Thomas went over and confronted the victims, the release said.

The situation became heated, and words suddenly turned to violence when Thomas pulled out a handgun and opened fire on the four victims, prosecutors said.

A 31-year-old man and two 14-year-old boys were wounded, officials said. A 36-year-old woman inside the home was not injured.

The victims were not defenseless, police told WDIV.

More than 30 shots were fired back and forth, in what police described as a gun battle, the outlet reported, adding that police confiscated four guns over the course of the investigation.

This is what looks like a shootout, Police Chief James White told the station. Houses that are next door to each other, so neighbors.

Thomas, the 31-year-old man and the two teenagers were taken to a hospital for treatment, the release said. Everyone survived.

Thomas is facing 24 charges, including four counts of assault with intent to murder, court records show. His bond has been set at $500,000.

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A man who got shot in a botched robbery at The Streets at Southpoint mall on Black Friday two years ago is going to prison.

Romeo Kevante Pride, 27, will serve nine years and two months in prison, after pleading guilty in a federal Greensboro courtroom to a firearms charge related to the 2021 shooting, U.S. Attorney Sandra J. Hairston of the Middle District of North Carolina said Tuesday.

Pride pleaded guilty to a felony charge of possession of a firearm by a felon in December 2022, according to a news release.

He was one of the men involved in the Nov. 26, 2021, shooting at the Durham mall in which he was shot and injured.

Pride traded gunfire with a jewelry seller he was trying to rob, The News & Observer previously reported.

Two bystanders were injured in the shooting.

Pride had a loaded .40 caliber Glock handgun, according to the news release.

In addition to the prison time, he will serve a three-year term of supervised release, the news release stated.

Two other men  Lamonttae Taylor, of Durham, and Jaquaay Walton, of Virginia  were also previously charged in the shooting.

Taylor, then 20 years old, was charged with robbery with a dangerous weapon, conspiracy to commit robbery with a dangerous weapon, felony possession of cocaine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Walton, then 31 years old, turned himself in previously for a charge of carrying a concealed gun.
"The Hatchet-Wielding Hitchhiker" used an image of an unrelated man, Taylor Hazlewood, the lawsuit alleges. Insider

A Kentucky man is suing Netflix over the use of his image in a true-crime documentary.

A picture of Taylor Hazlewood was used in a murder story he had no connection with, a lawsuit claims.

"The Hatchet-Wielding Hitchhiker" tells the story of viral star-turned-killer Kai McGillvary.

A Kentucky man is suing Netflix after it allegedly used his photo without permission in a true-crime documentary about a convicted murderer, court documents show.

Taylor Hazlewood is seeking more than $1 million in damages, saying the documentary "The Hatchet-Wielding Hitchhiker" portrays him in a "sinister and defamatory light."

His lawyer Angela Buchanan told Insider: "Hazelwood had no connection whatsoever to the people or events depicted in the film.

"Despite this, his personal Instagram photograph was included twice within the film, and the second use was included alongside a photograph of [Caleb] McGillvary, after he committed murder, with audio stating that he was either a guardian angel or a 'stone-cold killer.'"

Hazelwood "never sought or did anything to attract attention for the McGillvary story," Buchanan added.

The documentary focuses on Caleb "Kai" McGillvary, who became an internet celebrity in 2013 after he intervened in an assault, but he was later convicted of murder.

McGillvary gained viral video stardom as a hitchhiker who used his hatchet to subdue Jett McBride, a man who gave him a ride before attacking a utility worker. Speaking to local media afterwards, McGillvary delivered an endearing homily about love and respect before saying "smash, smash, smash!" to describe how he used his hatchet to intervene in the assault.

But three months later he was wanted for the killing of New Jersey lawyer Joseph Galfy. Despite pleading self-defense, McGillvary was convicted of first-degree murder in 2019, as The Washington Post reported.

The documentary looks at McGillvary's path from video star to convict, using multiple screenshots from social media to illustrate  one of which, per the lawsuit, is actually from Hazlewood's Instagram account.

Story continues

Hazlewood was first alerted to the use of the image, which shows him holding a hatchet, when friends began contacting him after the Netflix documentary aired.

"Wtf? Explain please," one friend messaged him, per the complaint.

"So something not so chill happens later in the documentary," the complaint cites another message as saying. "Youre picture shows up again after hes charged with murder and its just bad vibes."

Hazlewood says he was posing in the photo with a friend's hatchet in homage to his favorite childhood book, "Hatchet" by Gary Paulsen.

"Mr. Hazlewood's original Instagram post is tagged with this book and author, so there should have been no confusion by any company doing its homework when sourcing content," Buchanan, the lawyer, said.

Netflix did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment, sent outside of working hours.

McGillvary is also suing Netflix, alleging that the company is among several that are "ruthlessly exploiting a hero's life story for money," according to the Fresno Bee.

Read the original article on Insider
Searchers found a body they believe belongs to a missing Colorado man, according to a sheriff.

A ground search crew found a mans body, believed to be Jerry Allbright, 53, the evening of Monday, April 17, the Larimer County Sheriffs Office said in an April 18 Facebook post.

However, because of the hazardous terrain and fading light, the sheriffs office said it could not recover the body and planned to return the following morning.

Before he went missing, Allbright left his home on foot on Friday, April 14, and never returned, the sheriffs office said in an April 16 Facebook post.

Early the next day, deputies said he texted his family saying he was lost in the mountains.

Cell phone data showed Allbrights text message was sent about 1 1/2 miles west of the street where his home is located, the sheriffs office said.

His family called the sheriffs office later in the afternoon on Saturday, April 15, after searching the area and not finding him, deputies said.

The sheriffs office said it too searched the area but could not locate Allbright.

The next day, the sheriffs office said it continued looking for Allbright with the help of multiple agencies, searching the area using ground crews and a drone.

After the mans body is recovered, deputies said the coroners office will determine a manner and cause of death.

While this isnt the outcome we hoped for, we take comfort in knowing Jerry will be returned to his family, the sheriffs office said.

Larimer County is about 40 miles northwest of Fort Collins.

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A man was slashed in the neck with a knife after he asked for a cigarette at a bus stop in a popular North Carolina tourist town, according to police.

Officers in Asheville responded to a bus stop near downtown at around 5:30 a.m. on April 18 and found a man with a cut on his neck, according to a post on the Asheville Police Departments Facebook page.

The mans injuries were not considered life-threatening, and he refused treatment, according to the post.

The man told officers that he had gotten into a fight with another man after asking him for a cigarette, according to police.

The suspect pulled out a knife, started swinging, slashed the victim in the throat, and then left the scene prior to the officers arrival, the post says.

Police are still searching for the man with a knife and are asking anyone with information to contact the department by calling 828-252-1110 or sending an anonymous tip, according to the post. Anonymous tips can be sent by texting TIP2APD to 847411 or through a smartphone app, which can be found by searching Asheville PD in the app store.

Asheville is in the Blue Ridge Mountains in western North Carolina, about 125 miles northwest of Charlotte. About 10 million people visit the area each year, WLOS reported. Tourists spent $2.6 billion in 2021, according to Explore Asheville.

19-year-old stabs his roommate in the face in their Alabama home, police say

Mom stabs her son when fight about cleaning a dirty dish escalates, Tennessee cops say

Why? Why? Man shot by cousin during argument outside home, Tennessee cops say
Prosecutors in New York City on Monday asked the judge overseeing the criminal case against former President Donald Trump to seek additional information from one of Trump's attorneys who they believe may have a potential conflict of interest in the case.

Trump has pleaded not guilty to 34 felony counts of falsifying business records related to a $130,000 hush payment to adult film actress Stormy Daniels in the closing weeks of the 2016 campaign. Trump has denied all charges.

MORE: Trump indictment updates: Trump speaks out on charges from Mar-a-Lago

Trump's defense team includes Joe Tacopina, a lawyer Daniels once considered hiring as her attorney, and the Manhattan district attorney's office said Tacopina's representations so far are insufficient.

"[T]he People request that the Court make certain additional inquiries of Mr. Tacopina and conduct a Gomberg inquiry of the defendant," executive assistant district attorney Susan Hoffinger wrote in a letter to the court, referring to a hearing that would establish that Trump knowingly opts to continue with Tacopina as his attorney notwithstanding any conflict.

Trump affirmed at his arraignment he wanted to move forward with Tacopina on his legal team, but Hoffinger said a full hearing would be needed.

PHOTO: FILE - Former President Donald Trump departs from Trump Tower, April 14, 2023 in New York City. (Stephanie Keith/Getty Images, FILE)

She has asked the judge order Tacopina to turn over any records of his firm's communications with Daniels, and to disclose the extent to which he may have shared any information from Daniels with Trump.

The potential conflict was raised by Daniels' current attorney, Clark Brewster, who said in a letter to the Manhattan district attorney's office that Daniels had a 2018 conversation with Tacopina and attorneys at his firm about them potentially representing her.

Tacopina has said he never spoke to Daniels and he told the judge his firm refused to represent her.

Manhattan DA asks judge to look into Trump attorney's potential conflict of interest originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
A Massachusetts man says he plans to improve his home and install a swimming pool after he won a $1 million prize on a scratch ticket he stopped to buy on the way home from Easter Mass.

Edward Richards, of Haverhill, recently became the fourth $1 million prize winner in the Massachusetts State Lotterys Billion Dollar Extravaganza instant ticket game, Lottery officials said.

Richards told the Lottery that he had attended Easter Mass on Saturday night and that after being blessed with holy water, he felt that he needed to buy some scratch tickets.

Richards, who was joined at Mass Lottery headquarters by his daughters, chose the cash option on his prize and received a one-time payment of $650,000.

He purchased the ticket at Richdale Convenience on West Main Street in Georgetown.

The store will receive a $10,000 bonus for the sale of this ticket.

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Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (Ky.) returned to the Capitol Monday after a five-and-a-half-week absence as his party faces an array of tough political problems: the expiration of the debt limit, a messy fight over the 2024 presidential nomination and divisions over abortion policy.

McConnell has been the GOPs steady hand on the levers of power in Washington for more than a decade, and he now faces some of the biggest challenges of his career.

Its good to be back, McConnell declared Monday in his first Senate floor speech in nearly six weeks, making a quip about the concussion he suffered last month. Suffice it to say, this wasnt the first time that being hardheaded has served me very well.

The Senate leaders biggest immediate challenge is to figure out how to help break the impasse between President Biden and Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) over the debt limit, which is projected to expire this summer, perhaps as soon as June.

McConnell played a key role in brokering compromises to avoid national default in 2011 and 2021, and lawmakers are starting to look for him to step in after weeks of stalemate between Biden and McCarthy.

So far, he has stayed well away from the negotiations. But on Monday he took a step toward the fray by scolding Biden on the Senate floor for refusing to negotiate with McCarthy.

President Biden does not get to stick his fingers in his ears and refuse to listen, talk or negotiate. And the American people know that. The White House needs to stop wasting time and start negotiating with the Speaker of the House, he said.

Biden and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) feel comfortable not engaging with McCarthy directly on the debt limit, betting that hell cave under increasing political and financial market pressure to avoid a default.

Schumer on Monday panned McCarthys proposal to extend the debt limit for only one year and package it with a variety of spending reforms as a terrible idea.

Story continues

McConnell responded on the Senate floor by pointing out that just a few years ago Schumer had declared under a Republican president that the debt ceiling provides ample opportunity for bipartisanship, not for one party jamming its choices down the throats of another.

McConnell also faces an increasingly acrimonious and destructive battle between former President Trump and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R), the two frontrunners for the partys presidential nomination in 2024.

McConnell was absent from Congress, recuperating from a fall at the Waldorf Astoria on March 8, when DeSantis stepped on a political landmine last month by declaring that the war in Ukraine was not a vital U.S. security interest.

He also missed the political circus that surrounded Trumps indictment on 34 felony charges on April 4.

Trumps attacks on DeSantis have become increasingly hard-hitting, as evidenced by a new ad funded by a Trump-allied PAC accusing the Florida governor of supporting cuts to Medicare and Social Security and suggesting he eats chocolate pudding with his fingers.

The Kentucky senator made clear after last years midterm election that he thought chaos and negativity associated with Trump was a drag on Senate Republican candidates because he turned off moderate and swing voters, but Trumps popularity with Republican voters has only swelled over the past month.

Trump now leads DeSantis by nearly 29 points in an average of nationwide polls conducted since late March.

Trumps presidential campaign has also gained more support in the Senate GOP conference after Sens. Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.) and Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) endorsed him this week, bringing Trumps total number of Senate Republican endorsements to nine.

On the policy front, Republicans are divided over abortion, which is becoming a tricky litmus test for potential Republican hopefuls.

Former Vice President Pence and Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) were grilled about their views about the death penalty for abortion providers and a national abortion ban, respectively, in recent interviews.

McConnell tried to keep abortion politics out of last years Senate races by declaring that there werent 60 votes in the Senate for passing any federal abortion ban.

Republican senators greeted McConnells return to the Senate with a sense of relief as it enters a five-week work period in Washington.

Im glad hes back. I texted him earlier, said, Look forward to seeing him here in the next 20 minutes, said Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) before the weekly Senate Republican leadership meeting, which McConnell hasnt attended since early March.

Cornyn, an adviser to the Senate leadership team, said McConnell has unmatched experience navigating the toughest political challenges Congress encountered over the past decade and a half.

Hes been here a long time and hes navigated those challenges, he said. I dont expect anything to change.

McConnells absence had stoked some speculation about how much longer he plans to lead the Senate Republican conference and who is most likely to succeed him as leader.

But McConnell, who is 81 and was reelected in 2020, looked on Monday to be fully recovered and didnt show any sign that hes thinking about retiring before his term expires at the end of 2026.

Were truly lucky and blessed that we get to serve in this remarkable institution, represent our home states, and serve our country, and needless to say Im very happy to be back, he said in his return speech.

And Republican senators say McConnell has a lock on the top job for as long as he wants it.

Cornyn on Monday waved aside any notion that hes trying to build political support to replace McConnell by having private lunches with Senate colleagues.

I regularly have lunches with colleagues and help where I can, he said, but quickly added: Im for Mitch McConnell being the majority leader as long as he can serve.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
ISLAMABAD, April 18 (Xinhua) -- Five people were killed and 25 others injured when two passenger buses collided in Pakistan's south Sindh province on Tuesday morning, police and rescue teams said.

The incident happened in Sukkur district where a bus heading towards east Punjab province had a head-on collision with the other one coming from Punjab at the national highway in the district, the police told media.

The injured people were shifted to a nearby hospital and several of them are in critical condition.

The cause of the accident is being determined, but according to the initial investigation by the police, the bus driver heading toward Punjab lost control of the vehicle due to over-speeding.

Road accidents frequently happen in Pakistan due to poorly maintained roads, violation of road safety rules, and reckless driving. 
Minority Leader Mitch McConnell has rejected calls from a growing chorus of Democrats for Republicans to cooperate with their efforts to replace Dianne Feinstein (D., Calif.) on the Senate Judiciary Committee.

Senate Republicans will not take part in sidelining a temporary absent colleague off the committee just so Democrats can force through their very worst nominees, the Kentucky senator and ranking Republican said on Tuesday, according to CNN.

Feinstein, the longest-serving female senator in American history, entered the body in 1992 and, at 89, is the oldest member in the chamber. She was hospitalized in early March following a bout with shingles and has yet to return to active political duty.

Feinsteins absence from the Judiciary Committee has reportedly led to the delay in the confirmation of at least a dozen of President Bidens federal judicial appointees. Moreover, the California senator has missed dozens of votes while she recovers at her home in San Francisco.

Last Wednesday, Feinstein released a public statement acknowledging the growing frustration over her lingering absence from Capitol Hill.

I understand that my absence could delay the important work of the Judiciary Committee, so Ive asked Leader Schumer to ask the Senate to allow another Democratic senator to temporarily serve until Im able to resume my committee work.

McConnell, who returned to the Senate on Monday following a fall that left him hospitalized in early March, has committed to blocking Democratic efforts to replace Feinstein, whose absence has narrowed the partys majority in the body to just one seat.

Replacing Feinstein would require 60 overall votes and at least ten Republicans to vote across party lines.

Leading House Democrats including Ro Khanna (D., Calif.) and Alexandria Ocasion-Cortez (D., N.Y.) have also called upon Feinstein urgently relinquish her duties for the sake of the party.

Its time for @SenFeinstein to resign, the California representative tweeted last Wednesday. We need to put the country ahead of personal loyalty. While she has had a lifetime of public service, it is obvious she can no longer fulfill her duties. Not speaking out undermines our credibility as elected representatives of the people.

Story continues

Its time for @SenFeinstein to resign. We need to put the country ahead of personal loyalty. While she has had a lifetime of public service, it is obvious she can no longer fulfill her duties. Not speaking out undermines our credibility as elected representatives of the people.  Ro Khanna (@RoKhanna) April 12, 2023

Fellow House representative Jamaal Bowman (D., Ny.) joined his colleagues supporting Feinsteins departure during an interview with CNN on Monday. Shes had a very long and stellar career, you know, but missing that many votes, stopping us from moving forward with our judge nominations, Bowman said.

However, fellow Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D., N.Y.) and Tammy Baldwin (D., Wis.), have come to Feinsteins aid.

Shes a team player, and shes an extraordinary member of the Senate, Gillibrand insisted during a recent interview on CNNs State of the Union on Sunday. Its her right. Shes been voted by her state to be senator for six years. She has the right, in my opinion, to decide when she steps down.

I think that is really an important, a responsible thing to do during her absence, because we have President Bidens nominees waiting for hearings and votes and we want to keep that moving. But I wish her well and hope she returns to the Senate very soon, Baldwin said during an appearance on Meet the Press.

Prior to her decades-long stint in the Senate, Feinstein served as the Mayor of San Francisco and unsuccessfully ran for Governor of California.

More from National Review
The Oklahoma Sheriffs Association on Tuesday suspended three McCurtain County law enforcement officials following troubling accusations that the officials participated in a discussion about killing local journalists and the hanging of Black people.

During an emergency meeting of the Oklahoma Sheriffs Association Board of Directors, a unanimous vote was taken to suspend McCurtain County Sheriff Kevin Clardy, investigator Alicia Manning and Jail Administrator Larry Hendrix.

In a statement, the board said it followed association bylaws which state that a member may be suspended for good and sufficient cause by a majority vote.

The suspensions may be appealed.

The association is a membership organization and not a regulatory agency.

More: McCurtain County community in turmoil after sheriff, commission accused of hateful speech

The suspensions follow published accusations by the McCurtain Gazette-News that after a March 6 county meeting, Clardy, Manning and District 2 Commissioner Mark Jennings discussed killing reporter Chris Willingham.

Willingham, who wrote the explosive article, has said the discussion was recorded by a device left in the room by his father, Bruce Willingham, who is also the newspapers publisher.

Willingham has an ongoing defamation lawsuit against the sheriffs office, Manning and the Board of County Commissioners.

The newspaper accused Manning of saying in the recording about Chris Willingham: I aint worried about what hes gonna do to me. Im worried about what I might do to him.

The newspaper accused Clardy of mentioning that he has an excavator.

The newspaper accused Jennings, the commissioner, of saying he knew hitmen. Jennings also said he knew where two big, deep holes are if Manning needed them, according to the newspaper.

Jennings is accused by the newspaper of saying in the recording that Black people have more rights than others, and that there was a time when authorities could take Black people down to Mud Creek and hang them up with a rope.

Story continues

Willingham went to the FBI with the accusations, and the state attorney generals office confirmed it is investigating the matter.

Protesters and some elected leaders, including Gov. Kevin Stitt, have called on the officials to resign.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: McCurtain County officials suspended from Oklahoma Sheriffs' Association
The McCurtain County Sheriffs Office responded late Monday evening to explosive accusations made by a local newspaper this week.

The McCurtain Gazette-News reported that after a March 6 county meeting, officials discussed killing a reporter that works for the paper, and making racist comments toward Black people. The conversation is allegedly captured on an audio recording, and was released online publicly over the weekend.

The audio released online matches some of the quoted material in the story, but The Oklahoman has not yet independently verified who the speakers were in the recordings.

According to the newspaper, Sheriff Kevin Clardy, investigator Alicia Manning, Jail Administrator Larry Hendrix and District 2 Commissioner Mark Jennings were part of an impromptu discussion after the March 6 meeting of the county Board of Commissioners.

Monday evening, the McCurtain County Sheriff's Office posted a response to the community outcry on the department's Facebook page.

The post states that the investigation is ongoing, noting that investigators are looking into the authenticity of the recording and transcript, and if the recording was made legally according to Oklahoma statute.

Monday afternoon, about 100 people protested outside a McCurtain County commissioners meeting, calling for the resignations of the sheriff, one commissioner and others.

More: 'You can't take things like this lightly.' State officials call for resignations in McCurtain County

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: McCurtain County Sheriff's Office responds to allegations; investigation ongoing
Republicans ripped into SEC Chair Gary Gensler at his first House oversight hearing in 18 months, claiming his crackdown on cryptocurrency has failed to bring stability to digital asset markets.

Your approach is driving innovation overseas and endangering American competitiveness, Financial Services Chair Patrick McHenry (R-N.C.) told Gensler Tuesday after calling the SECs approach to policing the market nonsensical.

Cryptocurrency lobbyists have been pushing lawmakers for months to take a more aggressive tack with Gensler, who has significantly dialed up SEC enforcement since last years spectacular collapse of the FTX exchange, setting its sights on some of the biggest companies like Coinbase.

Gensler has long argued that much of the lightly regulated $1 trillion market violates U.S. securities rules because many of the products consist of unregistered securities.

Gensler, an ally of top progressives like Senate Banking Chair Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) and Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), has been on a collision course with McHenry since the GOP took control of the House in January. The veteran regulators turbocharged rulemaking agenda includes planned overhauls of the private equity industry and stock market trading, along with a sweeping climate disclosure proposal that Republicans have battered with claims of government overreach.

But much of the fireworks during Tuesdays marathon five-and-a-half-hour hearing were over crypto.

McHenry  along with other Republicans like Reps. French Hill of Arkansas and Bill Huizenga of Michigan  attacked Gensler over his approach to regulation. They said he was too focused on enforcement and not enough on providing clarity for the industry. They also blasted the SEC chair for stonewalling their efforts to investigate his response to the FTX failure, with McHenry calling the agencys responses unacceptable.

If you continue to thwart this institution by ignoring our requests and providing incomplete responses, we will be left with no choice but to pursue all avenues to compel the information or documents we need, McHenry said.

Story continues

In one contentious exchange, McHenry challenged Gensler to explain whether Ether  the second-largest crypto token after Bitcoin  is a security, while hinting at a potential turf war between the SEC and another regulator, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. CFTC Chair Rostin Behnam, whose agency oversees derivatives products, has said that Ether falls under the CFTCs jurisdiction.

Do you think it serves the market for an object to be viewed by the commodities regulators as a commodity and the securities regulator to be viewed as a security? Do you think that provides safety and soundness for the products? McHenry asked Gensler, who led the CFTC during the Obama administration. I think no should be a very simple answer for you here.

But Gensler declined, citing a longstanding precedent for SEC officials to not comment on specific cases. Instead, he offered a high-level response explaining the SECs test for determining whether an asset is a security.

The SEC chair called on exchanges, brokers and issuers to comply with the same rules that Wall Street follows.

Its not a matter of a lack of clarity, he said. This is a field that in the main is built up around non-compliance.

Democrats, led by ranking member Maxine Waters (D-Calif.), defended Genslers crypto strategy  as well as most of the SECs agenda. Waters said his approach to crypto marked a stark difference from that of previous SEC officials. And Rep. Jim Himes of Connecticut criticized Republicans for taking issue with the SEC for doing too much, too quickly just weeks after blasting bank regulators for doing too little and moving too slowly following the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank.

The hearing offered Republicans a rare opportunity to harangue Gensler to his face rather than through public letters and official statements.

Gensler was often quick to defend the SECs work, but the frustration was palpable. Several lawmakers, including House Whip Tom Emmer (R-Minn.) and Rep. Warren Davidson of Ohio, voiced displeasure with Genslers refusal to answer yes or no questions about his agenda.

Rep. Alex Mooney (R-W.V.) bashed as radical Genslers high-profile bid to require public companies to disclose climate risks.

Rep. Andy Barr (R-Ky.) said the SECs attempt to force private equity firms to make new disclosures to their investors would strip competition from the private funds market and harm investors. And Rep. Ann Wagner (R-Mo.), who chairs the committees panel on capital markets, said the planned overhaul of U.S. stock trading risks making equity markets more costly, less efficient and overall worse for individual investors.

Even some Democrats had questions.

Rep. Ritchie Torres of New York wondered aloud whether the SECs plans to update stock trading rules are fixing what aint broken.
Megan Thee Stallion

Megan Thee Stallion is reclaiming her power. In a recent interview with Elle Magazine for its latest cover, she addresses her shooting at the hands of Tory Lanez for the final time.

The hot girl is featured in the magazines April issue and opened up about how she overcame public humiliation after being shot, her decision to stay out of the public eye following Lanezs guilty verdict, and providing a voice for other Black women who may be victims of violence.

I dont want to call myself a victim. As I reflect on the past three years, I view myself as a survivor, because I have truly survived the unimaginable, Megan shared with the magazine. Not only did I survive being shot by someone I trusted and considered a close friend, but I overcame the public humiliation of having my name and reputation dragged through the mud by that individual for the entire world to see.

.@theestallion faced vitriol from gossip blogs, strangers, and peers after coming forward about her shooting by #ToryLanez in 2020. For the first and only time since her assailants guilty verdict, she discusses moving past what happened in our May issue: https://t.co/p1dbcS5evF pic.twitter.com/anKnG4pJOR  ELLE Magazine (US) (@ELLEmagazine) April 18, 2023

As Blavity reported, the 28-year-old was shot by Lanez after the two attended a pool party at Kylie Jenners home on July 12, 2020.

Megan said the Canadian native, social media users and her musical peers had made jokes about the injuries she sustained in the shooting. However, she couldnt understand why people werent condemning the Say It artist for his actions after he shot her.

Story continues

I could have let the adversity break me, but I persevered, even as people treated my trauma like a running joke. First, there were conspiracy theories that I was never shot. Then came the false narratives that my former best friend shot me, the Savage rapper said.

She continued, Even some of my peers in the music industry piled on with memes, jokes, and sneak disses, and completely ignored the fact that I could have lost my life. Instead of condemning any form of violence against a woman, these individuals tried to justify my attackers actions.

In December 2022, a Los Angeles jury found Lanez guilty on charges of discharging a firearm with gross negligence, assault with a semiautomatic firearm and carrying a loaded, unregistered firearm in a vehicle, per Blavity.

When the guilty verdict came on Dec. 23, 2022, it was more than just vindication for me, it was a victory for every woman who has ever been shamed, dismissed, and blamed for a violent crime committed against them, the Houston native recalled.

Megan took a months-long hiatus from social media following the high-profile case. From spending time with her dogs or her manager, Farris, the 28-year-old said she reflected on her life after what she described as trauma.

These last few months, Ive been healing after being in such a dark place. The physical and mental scars from this entire ordeal will always sting, but Im taking the appropriate steps to resume my life.

Megan also encouraged other survivors to continue using their voices and speak up, despite what some may say about them.

For anyone who has survived violence, please know your feelings are valid. You matter. You are not at fault. You are important. You are loved. You are not defined by your trauma. You can continue to write beautiful, new chapters to your life story. Just because you are in a bad situation doesnt mean you are a bad person. Our value doesnt come from the opinions of other people. As long as you stand your ground and live in your truth, nobody can take your power, she said.
Less than one year after Meta CEO and founder Mark Zuckerberg was pushing the Metaverse, the firm has moved away from the technology in meetings with advertisers. GLENN CHAPMAN/AFP via Getty Images

Meta has shifted away from pitching the metaverse to advertisers, The Information reported.

In pitch meetings, the company has reportedly been prioritizing Reels and AI tools.

The move comes as the firm has moved away from its metaverse ambitions over the past few months.

Around this time last year, Mark Zuckerberg was all in on the burgeoning possibilities of the metaverse  the very thing after which he renamed his company.

But, as his company embraces cost-cutting and loses billions of dollars in its efforts to bring virtual worlds to fruition, his enthusiasm has been waning.

According to a new report from The Information, Meta is no longer pitching the metaverse to advertisers in meetings. Instead, the company is incentivizing the use of its short-form video product Reels, while also highlighting its slew of AI tools, per the report.

The company is reportedly offering discounts of as much as 25% in the event that a certain amount of money is spent on Reels, per The Information. One ad executive whose firm spends hundreds of millions with Meta told The Information that this discount was "unusually large."

Aside from pushing the adoption of Reels, Meta is touting its host of AI tools for advertisers, such as Advantage+, a program introduced last year that uses machine learning to deliver targeted ads across Meta's social platforms, per The Information.

Meta is also investing in generative AI tools that can assist in creating marketing campaigns, per The Information. One Meta employee told the publication these types of investments could mean short-term gains for the company, which has been facing pressure amid cost cutting.

Meta has been turning away from the metaverse as part of the company's "Year of Efficiency," which has seen the firm lay off more than 20,000 employees over the last six months.

Last October, Zuckerberg refused to back down from his commitment to the metaverse, claiming that spending on Reality Labs, the division of Meta focused on building the metaverse into a functioning set of products, would only increase. But now Reality Labs, which has lost billions of dollars, is being pressured to execute more economically.

Story continues

In a note addressing the most recent round of layoffs, Zuckerberg only mentioned the metaverse twice in over 2,000 words, while AI development was described as the company's "single largest investment." And in a February call discussing Meta's 2022 full-year earnings, executives brought up AI six times  while the metaverse was not mentioned at all.

Meta declined to provide an on-the-record comment about its metaverse ambitions or advertising strategy.

Read the original article on Business Insider
MEXICO CITY (Reuters) -Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador on Tuesday accused the Pentagon of spying on his government following leaks in U.S. media, and said he would begin classifying information from the armed forces to protect national security.

His comments came several days after the Washington Post reported on apparent tensions between Mexico's Navy and the Army, citing a U.S. military briefing revealed in online leaks of secret U.S. military records.

"We're now going to safeguard information from the Navy and the Defense Ministry, because we're being a target of spying by the Pentagon," Lopez Obrador told his daily news conference.

A Pentagon spokesman said the U.S. Department of Defense has a "strong collaborative defense partnership" with Mexico's Army and Navy, and that the entities tackle common challenges "while respecting each other's sovereignty and respective foreign policy agendas."

The Pentagon has previously called the leak a "deliberate, criminal act."

The Washington Post story said there was no indication the cited document came from intercepted communications of Mexican officials.

Lopez Obrador has come under pressure to hold the military accountable for years of alleged abuses, including reported disappearances and killings. Even so, he has increased the army's role in public safety and sought to put the National Guard, a militarized police force, under Army control.

On Monday, Lopez Obrador had described the U.S. intelligence in the leaks as an "abusive, overbearing intrusion that should not be accepted under any circumstance," adding that he did not plan to rebuke the U.S., but would at some point discuss "conditions for collaborative work."

When presented on Tuesday with new allegations of the use of controversial spyware Pegasus during his government, he reiterated that his administration does not spy.

Prominent Mexico-based rights group Centro Prodh on Tuesday said two of its staff had their phones targeted by Pegasus last year, according to an analysis by Toronto-based digital watchdog Citizen Lab, becoming the latest of several alleged cases of Pegasus used during Lopez Obrador's government.

(Reporting by Daina Beth Solomon in Mexico CityAdditional reporting by Raul Cortes in Mexico City and Idrees Ali in WashingtonEditing by Andrea Ricci and Matthew Lewis)
MEXICO CITY (AP)  Mexicos Supreme Court ruled Tuesday that last years transfer of the newly created National Guard from civilian to military control was unconstitutional, dealing a blow to President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador who created the security force in 2019.

The vast majority of the National Guards members and leadership came from Mexicos military, but it was described as a civilian force and placed under the control of the civilian public security ministry. Lopez Obrador created it with a constitutional reform to replace the disbanded federal police.

Last year, Mexicos Congress passed legislation shifting control of the National Guard to the military. Lopez Obrador had argued then, as he repeated Tuesday, that it was the only way to avoid the corruption that engulfed the federal police.

Legal challenges were mounted immediately, noting that since the civilian nature of the National Guard was enshrined in the constitution, it could only be changed through another constitutional reform. By then however, Lopez Obrador's ruling party and allies no longer had the necessary majority in Congress.

The attempted shift fed criticism that Lopez Obrador was militarizing Mexico.

Troops had already been critical in previous administrations in combatting the powerful and heavily-armed drug cartels. But rather than sending them back to the barracks as Lopez Obrador had once advocated, he cemented their role in Mexicos public security.

Last October, the Congress extended the time the military would be able to continue performing a domestic law enforcement role to 2028. Previously, that role was supposed to end in 2024. The Mexican public has expressed higher levels of trust in the military than in police in polling.

Lopez Obrador also vastly expanded the military's responsibilities, putting them in charge of ports and customs, as well as his signature projects like building a new Mexico City airport and a tourist train on the Yucatan Peninsula.

Story continues

While the National Guard  now some 128,000 strong  could muster the firepower to match the cartels, it did not have the investigative capacity of a civilian police force. Critics have said the National Guard has largely operated as a visible patrolling presence in Mexicos many insecure areas, but is not dismantling organized criminal capability.

Eight of the courts 11 ministers ruled the transfer to military control unconstitutional.

On Tuesday morning, before the court's decision, Lopez Obrador criticized the court broadly for not producing justice and personally for court members' salaries.

If the National Guard isn't under the defense secretary and goes on like before when it was under the public security secretary ... look how the federal police ended up: completely corrupt, Lopez Obrador said.
[Source]

Michelle Yeoh is set to reprise her role as Emperor Philippa Georgiou in "Star Trek: Section 31," an event film on Paramount+.

Originally planned as a series, the project was first announced in 2019. The film will feature Georgiou grappling with the sins of her past, all while leading a secret Starfleet division responsible for protecting the United Federation of Planets.

Yeoh expressed her joy at returning to the role, which began with Season 1 of Star Trek: Discovery," in a statement.

Im beyond thrilled to return to my Star Trek family and to the role Ive loved for so long. Section 31 has been near and dear to my heart since I began the journey of playing Philippa all the way back when this new golden age of Star Trek launched. To see her finally get her moment is a dream come true in a year thats shown me the incredible power of never giving up on your dreams. We cant wait to share whats in store for you, and until then: live long and prosper (unless Emperor Georgiou decrees otherwise)! More from NextShark: Woman Bashes Asian Victims Head With a HAMMER After Demanding to Remove Mask in NYC

Olatunde Osunsanmi will direct and serve as executive producer. Craig Sweeny will write and executive produce. Yeoh is also executive producing alongside Alex Kurtzman and Aaron Baiers.

Kurtzman praised Yeoh and credited her with the idea to create a spin-off for her character.



All the way back in 2017, before the first season of Star Trek: Discovery had even aired, Michelle had the idea to do a spin-off for her character, Philippa Georgiou. She broke new ground as one of the first two women on screen in the pilot to usher in a new age of Trek, and now, six years later, Star Trek: Section 31 finally arrives on the heels of her latest groundbreaking win. Everyone on Team Trek couldnt be more thrilled to have our legendary friend return home to us as we expand our storytelling into new and uncharted corners of the Trekverse. Long live Emperor Georgiou; long live Michelle Yeoh. More from NextShark: Pro-democracy Cantopop star Denise Ho arrested by Hong Kong police for sedition

Story continues

CBS Studios will produce the film, which is slated to begin production later this year.

Paramount+ isnt the only streaming platform to have Academy Award winner Yeoh onboard an upcoming project. She recently reunited with her Everything Everywhere All at Once castmates for the anticipated American Born Chinese series premiering next month.

More from NextShark: Malaysian Squash Star Nicol Ann David Leads 'Greatest Athlete of All Time' Poll

Enjoy this content? Read more from NextShark!

Liev Schrieber and Naomi Watts' son perceived as 'too beautiful' by Japanese netizens
An Nvidia H100 chip on a black background



Nvidias Hopper H100 GPU is specifically designed to assist AI development. Microsoft is trying to find a way to cut its reliance on that chipmakers silicon.

Microsoft has a lot riding on AI, so much that its reportedly developing its own superpowered chip designed specifically for training and running its sophisticated chatbot systems. This chip, code-named Athena, would need Olympus-sized power to channel all of Microsofts ambitions in the AI arena.



On Tuesday, The Information reported based on two anonymous sources with direct knowledge of the project that Microsofts upcoming Athena chip has been in the works since 2019. That year also happens to be the same time the Redmond, Washington tech giant made its first investment into OpenAI, the makers of ChatGPT and GPT-4. Per the report, the chip is being tested behind the scenes by a small number of Microsoft and OpenAI staff. The chip is reportedly designed to handle both training and running its AI systems (which means its intended Microsofts internal setups, rather than your personal PC).

Read more

Gizmodo reached out to Microsoft, which declined comment. Of course, it makes sense that the Redmond company is trying to develop its own proprietary tech to handle its growing AI ambitions. Ever since it added a ChatGPT-like interface into its Bing app, the company has worked to install a large language model-based chatbot into everything from its 365 apps to Windows 11 itself.

Microsoft is trying to cut down on the money its paying other AI chip makers. Nvidia is the biggest player in this arena, with its $10,000 A100 chip taking up more than 90% of the datacenter GPU market for both training and running AI, according to investor Nathan Benaich in his State of AI report from last October.

Now Nvidia has a more advanced chip, the H100 chip, which is supposed to grant nine times as much training performance as its previous AI training chip, according to the chipmaker. Nvidia claimed last month that OpenAI and Stable Diffusion-maker Stability AI each used a H100 in part to train and run their current-gen AI models. Thing is, that H100 isnt cheap. As first reported by CNBC, that newer GPU has gone for upwards of $40,000 on eBay, when it has cost closer to $36,000 in the past.

Story continues

Nvidia H100 GPUs going for $40k on eBay. pic.twitter.com/7NOBI8cn3k  John Carmack (@ID_AA_Carmack) April 14, 2023

Nvidia declined to comment on Microsofts plans to stop relying on the companys tech. Though Nvidia maintains the biggest lead in AI training chips, the company does probably still want to keep Microsoft as a customer. Last year, the U.S. introduced new restrictions to keep the company from sending its A100 and H100 chips to Russia and China. Last month, Nvidia said it was allowing for more cloud-based access to its H100 chips, and that Meta was also jumping on the H100 bandwagon.

Competition and costs are reportedly speeding up Athenas development. Google, the other major tech giant trying to make a statement in the burgeoning AI industry, is also working on its own AI chips. Earlier this month, the company offered more details on its own Tensor Processing Unit supercomputers. The company said it connected several thousand of these chips together to make a machine learning supercomputer, and that this system was used to train its PaLM model, which in turn was used to create its Bard AI.

Google even claimed its chips use two to six times less energy and produce approximately 20 times less CO2 than contemporary DSAs. Knowing just how much energy it takes to train and run these AI models, Microsofts new chip will need to contend with the massive environmental cost of proliferated AI.







Want to know more about AI, chatbots, and the future of machine learning? Check out our full coverage of artificial intelligence, or browse our guides to The Best Free AI Art Generators, The Best ChatGPT Alternatives, and Everything We Know About OpenAIs ChatGPT.

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ISLAMABAD, April 18 (Xinhua) -- Two terrorists were killed during a police operation in the Rajanpur district of Pakistan's Punjab province, a statement by the counter-terrorism department of police said on Tuesday.

The law enforcement agency conducted an operation by acting on an intelligence tip-off regarding the presence of the militants in the area, said the statement.

During the operation, the terrorists began firing at police, and two of them were subsequently killed by their own accomplices.

Three other terrorists managed to escape during the crossfire, and a search operation is underway, said the statement.

Arms and ammunition were recovered from the custody of the killed terrorists, who were later identified as active members of the banned outfit Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, the splinter group of Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan.

The statement added that the terrorists were plotting an attack on police and other law enforcement agencies. 
Military families living on-base at Fort Gordon in Georgia say theyre still dealing with housing problems a year after a bipartisan Senate investigation revealed mistreatment of families in privatized housing on the base.

Sen. Jon Ossoff (D-GA) released the new report Tuesday that details improvements that have been made and gaps that still remain following his investigation last year into housing problems at Fort Gordon and other bases.

The newly released findings are focused on Balfour Beatty Communities, the private housing company that operates homes on the base.

The report said since the release of last years findings in April 2022 about reported mistreatment of military families, there have been more reports of Balfour Beatty failing to properly respond to repairs or handle environmental hazards, like mold growth.

Ossoff led a discussion about these ongoing concerns on Capitol Hill Tuesday morning, which included input from several military spouses.

This has been an ongoing issue for so long with so little change, said Joy Viera, a military spouse who previously lived at Fort Gordon.

The report said Balfour Beatty has made improvements including increasing maintenance staff at Fort Gordon, expanding training, and implementing a new quality assurance plan for gas and venting work orders.

Still, military families reported ongoing issues, according to the report.

Despite these improvements, this inquiry identified numerous examples of Fort Gordon residents facing ongoing housing challenges, including persistent mold and shoddy workmanship by maintenance staff, the report said. Multiple tenants reported recurring problems with mold that put them and their families at risk of serious health consequences, including several instances where independent, third-party inspectors deemed their homes unfit for habitation.

The report said the Army has implemented new reforms to address the deficiencies identified in last years Senate investigation.

Story continues

There are some reasons to believe that some progress is resulting from that more intense approach by the Army, but its still a long way to go to get to the outcome that we seek which is safe healthy housing for every family at Fort Gordon and other bases around the country, Ossoff told our Washington News Bureau.

Ossoff said Balfour Beatty declined the Senators invitation to join Tuesdays discussion, and instead there was an empty chair with a card with the name of the company.

Army officials did, however, join the conversation and highlighted improvements in oversight.

Ossoff questioned the Army officials about how they measure progress in fixing the housing problems.

In response, Rachel Jacobson, the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Installations, Energy and Environment, said they are tracking things like the number of complaints and the response time to get the problems fixed, among other measures.

Our awareness now I believe is much greater than it was a year ago, said Jacobson. I think because of all these issues that came to light, because of all our own internal investigations, it was a wakeup call.

In response to the ongoing concerns, the report calls on Balfour Beatty to ensure the technical quality of maintenance work, consistently identify and remediate mold in homes, and more effectively plan for long-term sustainability of the project.

Military spouses called for more specificity in the tenant bill of rights and changes to it to better protect families.

Military families should be able to sign off on their work tickets confirming they are accurate and true to what was performed and what the issue was, said Breanna Barnhart, a resident at Fort Jackson, which is also run by Balfour Beatty. That would hold Balfour Beatty accountable but theres lacking verbiage in our legislation.

In response to the investigation, a spokesperson for Balfour Beatty Communities said: Balfour Beatty Communities is totally committed to the health, safety, and well-being of our residents and we acknowledge that we have more work to do. In this we are committed to working with the Army and with Senator Ossoff. We appreciate that the progress being made has been recognized. We declined the invitation to participate in todays event because we have multiple two-way communication channels in place to maintain transparency into maintenance requests, keep residents informed, and allow them to share their feedback and raise concerns, and because we continue to meet routinely with the local Military Housing Office and Command to ensure any resident housing concerns are being appropriately addressed by our team. We continue to invest in people and resources to offer the best possible living experience for the men and women who serve our country.

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HOLLAND  An audio statement from the 6-year-old daughter of a murdered woman brought the courtroom to tears Monday, Apri 17, as the sentencing for Enrique Estrada III took place in the Ottawa County 20th Circuit Court.

Estrada, who was found guilty of first-degree murder by a jury last month, was sentenced to life in prison without parole. He's already served a little over one year and three months in jail.

More: Jury finds Holland man guilty of first-degree murder

"My mom is dead and I miss her so much," the small, high-pitched, 6-year-old said on a voice recording that victim Katherine Rutger's mother, Michelle Beyer, held up to the microphone. Beyer said the statement was something the child "worked so hard on" with her therapist. "My mom used to help me with by boo boos, she would kiss them. I miss her kisses."

Katherine Rutgers, with daughters Aria, 5, and Audrey, 3, in a photo shown during a court hearing, Feb. 9, 2022.

Rutgers, of Holland, was suffocated to death by her ex-boyfriend, Estrada, shortly after Christmas 2021. Rutgers had two daughters, now 6 and 4 years old.

"I feel sad and angry that my mommy died," the 6-year-old continued. "I have lots of big feelings about Enrique. I feel angry and scared and lots of other stuff. I think Enrique is a bad man who killed my mom. I want Enrique to promise not to kill anyone I love ever again."

Beyer talked about the complicated grief in losing her daughter  "The natural order has been disrupted," she said  and now taking care of her two granddaughters in her daughter's place.

"My heart aches for both (the girls)," Beyer said.

Beyer found Katherine after she was killed, lying in her bed and her youngest child left unattended for hours in the nearby bedroom. Estrada suffocated Rutgers with a rag and left hours before.

Multiple times Monday, the family told Estrada to look at them when they addressed him. Each time, Estrada was facing the wall and slowly turned in his chair to look at them.

Rutgers' sister said she and Katherine had both been in relationships with domestic abuse.

"I escaped and survived while she did not," the sister said.

Story continues

Each family member referenced their religious faith as a source of strength, support and forgiveness.

"I used to wish I would never have to look into the eyes of Enrique, the same eyes that stared my sister directly in the eyes and drained all life and air out of her lungs while she struggled to take her last breaths," the sister said. "I didn't want to be in the same room nor breathe the same air as him. It seemed quite unfair to watch him breathe so freely."

The sister said she chose to see Estrada "as Jesus would"  as a "broken, hurting person."

Katherine's older brother, Shane Van Houten, talked about how personal and tragic the murder was, forever changing the family's memories around Christmastime.

"Because of you, Enrique, Katherine won't be here to see her daughters graduate, get married, have grandchildren and make countless of memories with them," Van Houten said. "I hope she visits and haunts you in your sleep and moments of solitude for the rest of your life."

Judge Karen Miedema thanked the family members for sharing their "powerful" statements, and asked for the 6-year-old to especially be thanked.

Before sentencing, Estrada said he originally wasn't going to address the courtroom, but felt compelled to speak after hearing the family's impact statements.

"I just wanted (Katherine's family) to know that even if they see me as some kind of evil or even a monster, I am not," Estrada said. "I took on being a family man. I loved Katherine ... I cared for her own kids as my own."

Miedema described the case as "sad for everybody" and addressed Estrada.

"You had other options that night," Miedema said. "So you are responsible for this."

This article originally appeared on The Holland Sentinel: 'I miss her kisses': Holland man sentenced to life without parole for murder of young mom
Soldiers on patrol outside the Forensic Medical Service morgue building in Matamoros, Mexico, March 8, 2023. (Alejandro Cegarra/The New York Times)

Within minutes of riding into Mexico in a rented white minivan last month, Latavia McGee knew that she was lost.

She and three of her closest friends  close enough that she called them brothers  had driven from South Carolina to Matamoros in the state of Tamaulipas so that she could get a tummy tuck procedure. It was a journey she had made once before, as part of a wave of American women seeking cosmetic surgery across the border.

But this time, she was running late, had no phone service and had veered off course, McGee recalled in a recent interview. She was struggling to remember where the clinic was supposed to be.

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Also in the van were Zindell Brown, Shaeed Woodard and Eric Williams, old companions with whom she had grown up in South Carolina. That morning in Mexico, they had been enjoying one anothers company, McGee said, as Brown, the best Spanish speaker of the four, asked strangers for directions.

Then gunshots rang out, and the friends found themselves caught in the crossfire of a Mexican cartel. Brown 28, and Woodard, 33, would be killed, and McGee, 34, and Williams, 38, would spend four days in captivity, with the bodies of their friends beside them.

The deadly encounter drew international attention, highlighting the relentless violence that the Mexican government has failed to contain and bringing Republican criticism of the Biden administration for not doing enough to confront cartels across the border. Though the episode is still being investigated, officials have said that they believed the friends were taken by mistake: criminals in Mexico do not usually target Americans. Two days after McGee and Williams were released, five bound men were found by Mexican authorities with a letter, purportedly from a powerful cartel, blaming them for the attack on the Americans.

The two survivors are only now beginning to speak publicly about their ordeal, as they continue to cope with the physical and emotional aftermath, which has left Williams using a wheelchair. In an interview with The New York Times, they described confused captors and gutsy escape attempts before they were released, and they provided more details about what drew them to Mexico.

Story continues

McGee, who lives in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, first had cosmetic surgery in Matamoros about two years ago, she said, and was returning for another procedure. She saw it as a form of self care after having six children. It wasnt that I was self-conscious, because I always thought I was beautiful, she said. I wanted to do it, so I saved my money, and I went.

While her path across the border was risky, it was also well worn. Experts who track the practice known as medical tourism say that tens of thousands of U.S. residents make the trip every year in search of body-sculpting operations that are cheaper than what they can find at home. Despite the experience of McGee and her companions, the trend shows no sign of slowing.

Cross-Border Medicine

Cartel violence is distressingly common in Tamaulipas, one of six Mexican states that the State Department warns Americans to avoid because of crime. Even so, women cross the border from Brownsville, Texas, every day to visit clinics in Matamoros offering liposuction and cosmetic procedures known as tummy tucks and Brazilian butt lifts.

About 1.2 million Americans traveled to Mexico in 2019 to save money on medical procedures, according to Patients Beyond Borders, a group that offers guidance on health care options abroad. The organization estimates that cosmetic procedures account for about 15% of all medical travel from the United States.

Jasmine Wilson, 28, of Washington, D.C., went to Mexico last October for body shaping surgery that might have cost her $20,000 domestically, she said. In Mexico, the procedures came to only about one-quarter of that price. In the months since, she has used TikTok to promote the work of her surgeon, whom she found through a Facebook group.

Wilson said larger women often have a hard time obtaining cosmetic procedures in the United States. A lot of plus-sized women dont even know that they can get plastic surgery, she said, because they get turned down.

Some cosmetic surgeons consider it too risky to operate on patients who have high body mass indexes. But compared with their American counterparts, surgeons in Mexico appear to be more likely to accept those patients, said David G. Vequist IV, founder of the Center for Medical Tourism Research at the University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio. Americans with limited access to health care, a category in which people of color are overrepresented, are also more likely to travel for procedures abroad, he said, pointing to a 2016 survey conducted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

For many patients who undergo butt lifts and related procedures, complications like blood clots or embolisms, which can be fatal, are a bigger concern than the cartels. Even a normal recovery involves bruising, bleeding and painful swelling, which has led to a homegrown system of postoperative recovery houses arising along the border.

Roxanne Flores has crossed into Matamoros hundreds of times, she said. She underwent cosmetic surgery in Mexico years ago, and she now rents a house in Brownsville where women can pay to stay before and after their operations.

Ive never, ever been caught up in something while driving women to Tamaulipas and back, she said, adding that McGee might have looked out of place in Matamoros because she was in a car with three men.

Like many other medical tourists, McGee prepared for her first surgical trip by sifting through social media platforms where women had recommended doctors and shared photos of their figures before and after procedures.

A friend recommended the same doctor that Wilson had visited. I was kind of scared, McGee said this week about her first procedure in Mexico two years ago, because she knew that complications were possible. But she was happy with the results, and decided to go back again for a tummy tuck.

Threats and Beatings

After roaming through Matamoros with her friends on the day of her appointment last month, McGee was ready to head back to Brownsville when a car cut them off.

From the back seat of the van, Brown insisted that he had seen a gun, and he urged his friends to flee, McGee recalled. Williams, who was driving, said he did his best to escape as shots rang out, throwing his arm across McGee in the passenger seat to try to protect her.

Someone on the street died in the shooting; news outlets identified her as Areli Pablo Servando, a 33-year old Mexican woman.

In the violent, noisy blur, each of the four friends either tried to run from the minivan or was pulled from it, Williams and McGee recalled. Then, in a moment that was captured in a bystanders video and shared widely on social media, the four were loaded into the bed of a white pickup truck.

As the truck began to pull away from the scene of the shooting, McGee was the only one of the four who had not suffered a major injury. She and Williams, who had been shot in the legs, decided that she should try to escape and find help. So she jumped, she said, and ran toward a fence with a gate. But the gate was locked, and the fence was too high to climb over.

The assailants forced her back into the truck and beat her, she said. The four Americans were then taken somewhere and accosted by more men with guns, who threatened them and asked them if they were in the drug trade.

No, McGee recalled answering. We came for surgery.

Confusion seemed to creep in as their captors consulted with one another. Some of the assailants told McGee that she would be released, she said. Still, the threats and beatings continued.

The four were taken to a sort of clinic, where McGee said she saw that both Brown and Woodard appeared to be lifeless. All I could see was their heads and the dreads hanging off the bed, she said. And all I could do was cry.

Williams  who by then had been stripped  said his injured legs were hastily stitched up. The two survivors and their dead friends bodies were moved again, to a place where they were surrounded by about a dozen other captives who looked as if they had been badly beaten.

The surviving friends languished there for about two days, McGee said. They prayed together and took turns feeling hopeless, each asking the other to relay loving messages to their spouses and children.

Ill Never Be OK

Eventually, they were driven to yet another location, where McGee again tried to escape, they said. She managed to grab the phone of a guard who seemed to be incapacitated, and repeatedly dialed 911. Each time, she said nothing to the operator for fear that the cartel might be listening. But she hoped that the police would come if she kept dialing.

Her last attempt to flee came after she spotted an empty vehicle outside the place where they were being held. Finding the keys inside, she hauled Williams into the vehicle with her and hit the accelerator. Rough terrain slowed her down, she said, and then she was spotted; bullets flew again. She was taken back to the room with the bodies.

Not long after that, the police arrived. According to Mexican authorities, McGee, Williams and their slain friends were found on the morning of March 7 in a wooden shed surrounded by farmland on the edge of Matamoros. A couple of hours later, the two survivors were in the custody of U.S. officials.

Since the kidnapping, Williams has undergone surgery to repair his legs and is unsure when he will be able to walk again. He and McGee are grieving the loss of their friends, whom they described as supportive and sweet.

Ill never be the same, McGee said. Ill never be OK.

Sometimes, McGees phone still brings her notifications from the cosmetic surgery groups she joined years ago on social media, where women continue to post about their plans for procedures in Mexico.

c.2023 The New York Times Company
Pennsylvania State Police troopers were called to a Summit Township residence last week to check on the welfare of a 66-year-old man who hadn't been seen or heard from by family for more than two weeks.

The discovery of strange writings on the walls of the residence, and of suspected human bone in a burn pit on the property, has launched a death investigation.

Authorities on Monday had not yet identified the suspected remains found in the burn pit on property at 7017 Crestview Drive, where the missing man lived. The whereabouts of the missing man, 66-year-old Michael Maisner, also remained unknown Monday, according to state police.

Troopers based out of state police Troop E headquarters in Lawrence Park Township issued a news release late Thursday revealing their missing persons investigation and asking anyone with information on Maisner's whereabouts to call the station. The release included a description of Maisner and of his car, a 2014 Cadillac XTS.

Maisner was reported missing by family members who last saw him March 27, troopers wrote in the release.

According to information contained in search warrants state police obtained as part of the investigation, troopers were first called to Maisner's residence April 12 to check on his welfare. Investigators wrote in the warrants that troopers observed "nonsensical graffiti" on the walls when they arrived at the residence, but received no response when they knocked on the door and did not find Maisner when they went inside the residence.

A woman in the attic and a missing car

State police were called back to the Crestview Drive residence late Thursday morning to investigate a report of a woman in the attic. Troopers identified the woman, who was found in the residence by members of Maisner's family, as Marisa J. Rodriguez, according to information in the affidavits filed with the four search warrants.

Rodriguez told troopers she was at the residence to take care of Maisner's cats and had not seen Maisner in two weeks, according to the affidavits.

Story continues

Troopers wrote that while they were at the house Thursday morning, they had seen the Cadillac XTS belonging to Maisner. But when troopers returned to the residence late Thursday afternoon to complete a missing persons report with members of Maisner's family, the Cadillac was no longer in the driveway, according to the affidavits.

Investigators wrote that while at the house during the second visit Thursday, troopers noticed a portion of carpet missing from the stairs inside the residence, and they located a burn pit on the property that was warm and contained fibers that appeared to be the same as the carpet removed from the residence.

Troopers additionally discovered bleach and bleach wipes in the residence, along with the smell of bleach, and they found a red mark on a bathroom wall that appeared to be suspected blood, according to information in the affidavits.

Pennsylvania State Police troopers investigating the whereabouts of a 66-year-old Summit Township man reported missing on April 12, 2023, said they found suspected human remains on the man's property.

On Thursday at about 8:40 p.m., the Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office stopped Maisner's Cadillac in Chautauqua County. Rodriguez was operating the car and Maisner was not in it, according to the affidavits.

Troopers wrote in a search warrant obtained for the Cadillac that Chautauqua County sheriff's deputies impounded the car and detained Rodriguez.

State police on Friday towed the Cadillac from New York to Troop E headquarters and filed charges against Rodriguez, 35, of McKean, in the theft of the car. Troopers wrote in the affidavit filed with her criminal complaint members of Maisner's family told troopers that Maisner would not lend the car to anyone and no one else ever drove it.

When Rodriguez was questioned after the traffic stop in Chautauqua County, she would not say who allowed her to operate the car, according to the affidavit.

McKean District Judge Denise Stuck-Lewis arraigned Rodriguez Saturday morning on third-degree felony counts of theft and receiving stolen property and on a misdemeanor count of unauthorized use of motor vehicles. Rodriguez was placed in the Erie County Prison without bond.

Writings and a bone found in a burn pit

State police returned to the Crestview Drive residence a third time Thursday when they served a search warrant on the property about an hour after Maisner's car was stopped in Chautauqua County.

According to information in the search warrant affidavits, troopers took a closer look at the graffiti on the walls. The statements included, "I already shot myself 6 times in the head" and "Shot the devil and burn him alive," investigators wrote.

On Friday, state police searched the burn pit after receiving consent from Maisner's family. Investigators found a bone in the pit and sent a photo of it to Dennis Dirkmaat, chair of the department of applied forensic sciences at Mercyhurst University. Dirkmaat stated the bone appeared to be human, and the coroner was notified, investigators wrote in the affidavits.

Erie County Coroner Lyell Cook said Monday that he had gone to the scene Friday and contacted Mercyhurst University to collect the remains and to do an examination on them.

Anyone with information that could assist state police in the ongoing investigation is asked to call 814-898-1641.

Contact Tim Hahn at thahn@timesnews.com. Follow him on Twitter @ETNhahn.

This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News: Police probing discovery of suspected human bone in burn pit in Summit
A bald eagle at a Missouri sanctuary is finally the proud father of an eaglet chick.

Murphy, who is cared for at the World Bird Sanctuary in Valley Park, was granted the privilege of fostering a baby eagle after he attempted to incubate a rock.

World Bird Sanctuary CEO Dawn Griffard told Fox News Digital in an interview that Murphy discovered a rock in his enclosure in early March  and immediately took to it.

Murphy was brought into the sanctuarys care about 30 years ago after suffering multiple injuries in the wild.

AMERICAN WILDLIFE QUIZ! HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW THESE STATS AND FACTS ABOUT ANIMALS IN THE UNITED STATES?

Since then, Murphy  who's been living with four old bald eagles in a brand-new aviary  has become been a "favorite" of sanctuary visitors.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

The 31-year-old bird took on a new venture recently when he was caught protecting one area of his enclosure and was "very fussy" about other people coming near it, Griffard said. Murphy had pulled sticks over to the area to build a nest around what was identified as a rock.

This is the rock that Murphy the bald eagle was treating like an egg.

"It was an average rock," she said. "It didnt even look like an egg, but he insisted on incubating it."

For the next few weeks, the sanctuary warned visitors that Murphy was not injured, but was in the midst of tending to a rock.

ALASKAN BALD EAGLES WIN NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC'S FIRST PICTURES OF THE YEAR PHOTO CONTEST WITH STUNNING IMAGE

The sanctuarys notice went viral on social media.

It is not out of the ordinary for bald eagles, even males, to seek out objects to incubate during the spring when hormones are "running high," noted Griffard.

"It's not unusual for a male bald eagle to do this because, in the wild, the male and the female take care of the nest and the eaglets equally," she said.

Even though Murphy had his choice of females to mate with, Griffard explained that there were no love matches. "No one wanted each other," she said.

But it was abundantly clear that Murphy was ready to be a father.

Story continues

On April 3, while Murphy was busy tending to his rock at the sanctuary, a large storm blew an eagles nest from a tree about an hour outside St. Louis.

AS BALD EAGLE MAKES MIRACULOUS COMEBACK IN US, AUTHOR REVEALS THAT HUMANS REDEEMED OURSELVES

One of two chicks in that nest survived  and was brought to the World Bird Sanctuary (WBS) for rehabilitation.

"We did all the exams [and] X-rays and [the baby bird] was bruised and battered a bit and had a bit of a wonky wing," the CEO said. "But we kept the baby in the hospital for about a week, and everything was fine."

Eaglet 23-126 was taken in by the World Bird Sanctuary after a large storm knocked its nest from a tree on April 3, 2023.

Next, the sanctuary's humans made sure they could raise the baby without imprinting on it, which can be difficult for birds of prey such as eagles, vultures and owls.

"Birds visually imprint on their parents during a critical period of development," notes the Wildlife Center of Virginia's website. "After imprinting, they will identify with that species for life."

Griffard added, "Once they imprint on a human, they can't be released back to the wild."

After caring for the baby bird while wearing camouflage outfits and making sure the eaglet was not exposed to human faces, sanctuary caretakers decided it was time to pair the baby with a foster parent.

Enter Murphy, the wannabe eagle daddy.

"We haven't had an eaglet for eight years, so we don't have a foster parent that is experienced in raising chicks," Gibbard said.

"So, it was decided to try Murphy out."

WBS created whats referred to as "baby jail," which is a small, vinyl-covered wire enclosure that allows the foster parent to see the baby while keeping all parties safe.

THE BALD EAGLE: A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE GREAT CONSERVATION SUCCESS STORY OF AMERICA'S BIRD

The eaglet, in baby jail, was brought into a private enclosure with Murphy at night until April 13  when the pair was finally introduced.

The father-chick duo immediately began bonding, Griffard revealed, and Murphy successfully fed the baby on day one.

Murphy the mature bald eagle meets his foster eaglet on April 13, 2023.

"Its going well," she said. "He's a first-time dad, so he's not as into it as an experienced dad would be. But that's not necessary, because he's got so much help from us."

She added, "The really important thing is that the baby is mirroring him and following him around  and they're sitting together, so [the] baby is getting the full experience of being raised by an eagle instead of a human."

ENDANGERED CALIFORNIA CONDORS RELEASED IN REDWOOD NATIONAL AND STATE PARKS FOR FIRST TIME SINCE 1892

"Words cannot describe" how meaningful its been to bring Murphys dreams to life and to see the sanctuarys efforts come to full fruition, said Griffard.

"I'm just over-the-moon excited that this is working out," she said. "[At] every step we were so apprehensive, knowing that there was no guarantee that this was going to work."

Eaglet chick 23-126 peeps at foster dad, Murphy, for more food at the World Bird Sanctuary in Valley Park, Missouri, on April 13, 2023.

She added, "But having it work out  its kismet. It's so moving."

The reaction on social media has been nothing but positive, as the public follows the father and baby's love story.

"It's about a single dad that has worked so hard and was rewarded for his efforts," Griffard said of Murphy's journey to parenthood.

Eaglet chick 23-126, who is only about three to four weeks old, will be released once its fully grown at 10 to 12 weeks.

Murphy, a 31-year-old bald eagle, guards eaglet 23-126 while the little one is kept in "baby jail."

The separation will not affect Murphy, Griffard said, as its natural for bird parents to let go of their babies.

"By that point, he's not needed by the chick anymore," she said. "Hell be fine."

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The chick will not receive a name due to a superstition that once a bird is named, something goes wrong before its release, Griffard noted.

Griffard invited the public to call the chick whatever theyd like, mentioning that a few names such as "Rocky," "The Rock" and "Pebbles" have been floated.

The World Bird Sanctuary is currently looking into a DNA test to identify whether the baby is male or female.

As of 2007, bald eagles are not considered endangered, but the World Bird Sanctuary continues to keep up much-needed care for these birds, Griffard said.

"It's hard work. The birds are suffering," she said. "We're there to make it better and get them back out into the world."

Those interested in supporting the World Bird Sanctuary can donate at worldbirdsanctuary.org/donate.
Despite a growing chorus of elected officials who have condemned the shooting of Ralph Yarl, a Black 16-year-old Kansas City student, Missouris top statewide official has remained silent.

Missouri Gov. Mike Parson, a Republican whose term ends in 2025, has made no public statements about the shooting of Yarl, who was shot by a white man in the Northland on Thursday after ringing the doorbell at the wrong house while picking up his brothers.

The Republican governors office has not responded to two emails from The Star over two days asking to weigh in on the shooting. His silence has persisted even after President Joe Biden spoke with Yarl and his family. Biden on Tuesday announced he had invited Yarl to the White House once he recovers. Vice President Kamala Harris also condemned the shooting on Monday, saying every child deserves to be safe.

It is telling that the President of the United States can make time for a phone call to the family but our governor has yet to release a statement, said state Rep. Maggie Nurrenbern, a Kansas City Democrat who represents a swath of the Northland.

Nurrenbern urged Parson to reach out to Yarls family and the community. If nothing else, Nurrenbern said, he should say hes praying for Yarls recovery and hopes that justice is served.

Parson remained silent on the shooting after he held a meet and greet in his office at 10:15 a.m. Tuesday with members of the Northland Regional Chamber of Commerce.

As governor, Parson has a major role in overseeing Kansas Citys police operations, which is the only Missouri police force under state control. Parson is in charge of appointing four of the five spots on the Board of Police Commissioners. Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas occupies the fifth spot.

House Minority Leader Crystal Quade, a Springfield Democrat and potential candidate for governor in 2024, told The Star on Tuesday that Parsons silence wasnt surprising. She pointed to his support of Missouris loose gun laws, saying in a statement that the Republican governor fostered a climate that made this tragedy possible.

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As both a lawmaker and a governor, he supported every effort to gut the states gun safety laws, despite the opposition of law enforcement, and then shrugged as firearm deaths increased, the statement said. The Missouri where a teenage boy is shot just for ringing a doorbell is the Missouri Mike Parson worked to create.

House Majority Leader Jonathan Patterson, a Lees Summit Republican, on Tuesday said he believed Parson was being cautious.

As governor, he wants to be responsible with his comments, Patterson told The Star. And to prematurely comment on a situation that we dont know exactly what happened, I think its actually the responsible thing to do.

Patterson said the shooting was tragic, but would hold his judgment because the public did not know enough about what happened.

If the kid just rang the doorbell, then I think a crime has been committed and thats very tragic, he said. But I think we really have to know what exactly happened.

Jean Evans, a former executive director of the Missouri Republican Party, defended Parsons silence in an interview with The Star on Tuesday, saying its unclear whether the governor had been briefed on the shooting, knows the situation or has talked to the prosecutor.

I sometimes feel like theres this zealous need for everybody to weigh in on every single issue and get a response immediately and some of us would like to wait and see for the facts, Evans said. I do know (Parson) to be somebody who cares very much about kids. And so I am certain that he would empathize with a family whose child has been shot because thats the kind of person he is.

However, Parson still had not commented on the shooting after Clay County Prosecutor Zachary Thompson charged the alleged shooter, Andrew D. Lester, on Monday with first-degree assault and armed criminal action.

Lester had surrendered to the Clay County Detention Center and was in custody as of Tuesday afternoon, according to the Clay County Sheriffs Office.

The Republican governors lack of response to the shooting is not necessarily unprecedented. In 2014, then-Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon, a Democrat, faced criticism for appearing tentative and weak as tensions escalated between protesters and Ferguson police after the shooting death of Michael Brown, an unarmed Black teenager, by a white police officer.

After the Clay County prosecutor brought charges against Lester, both of Missouris Republican senators weighed in on the shooting. Sen. Josh Hawley Tuesday called the shooting terrible and said he supports the decision to prosecute while decrying rising violence across Missouri. Sen. Eric Schmitt said he was praying for the family but would let the prosecution play out before making additional comments.

The shooting has sparked national outrage and brought new scrutiny to Missouris gun laws. The GOP-controlled Missouri Senate on Monday held a moment of silence after state Sen. Lauren Arthur, a Kansas City Democrat, asked the chamber to pray for Yarl and his family.

Nurrenbern, the Kansas City Democrat, said Yarls shooting was a pivotal moment that needed to unite the state.

Its so important that the governor of the state really is the governor for every part of the state and every community in the state, she said. Gov. Parson has been to Clay County numerous times. Hes been to our schools. Its even possible that hes met this young man along his different journeys and trips.

And so I think its important, again, just to have a united front in this - that we and Missouri do not stand for this type of violence, period.

The Stars Daniel Desrochers contributed reporting.
The Missouri House passed a bill Monday allowing guns to be carried on public buses and inside churches and other places of worship, chipping away at the list of places where guns are prohibited even with a concealed carry permit.

The bill, sponsored by Rep. Adam Schnelting, a St. Charles Republican, would allow people with concealed carry permits to have guns on public transit. The bill includes an amendment proposed by Rep. Ben Baker, a Neosho Republican, that would also allow people with permits to carry guns in churches and other places of worship. Churches could still prohibit guns by placing signage that states firearms are not allowed.

The reality is, people are already carrying guns on public transit, Schnelting said Monday. I stand by the Constitution. I stand by my constituents. And I stand by the would be victims and the victims who simply want to be able to defend themselves against perpetrators of violence and crime.

The bill passed the House on a vote of 102-45 and now heads to the Senate. The vote came just days after 16-year-old Ralph Yarl was shot twice and critically wounded in Kansas City after going to the wrong house to pick up his siblings on April 13. The shooting sparked national outrage and a protest this week.

We havent even spent time today acknowledging the gun violence that happened about 10 miles from my own house, which is that a child was gunned down for ringing a doorbell, state Rep. Ashley Aune, a Kansas City Democrat, said on the floor Monday. We fight so hard in this room for more guns in more places and we forget about the actual lives lost and I really encourage you all to consider that while youre protecting the Second Amendment.

Democrats have long been against legislation that broadens Missouris gun laws, and said the bill would exacerbate gun violence issues in the states urban areas.

Kansas City had 171 killings in 2022, which was the second-deadliest year to date, the first being 2020. Recent incidents on public transit include a 2020 shooting where three people, including a police officer and bus driver, were wounded on a RideKC bus by a suspect in an alleged robbery. Another man was shot in 2017 on a RideKC bus in downtown Kansas City after an altercation.

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Im probably the only person in this body who rides the bus on a somewhat regular basis, said state Rep. Richard Brown, a Kansas City Democrat. Having a gun on public transit does not make people feel safe.

Doug Alpert, the rabbi at Kansas City-based Congregation Kol Ami, said there is no reason to have guns in places of worship, and the bill would only increase the likelihood of shootings in places like synagogues, which already face threats and violence.

In 2014, three people were killed outside of the Jewish Community Center in Overland Park when anti-semite Frazier Glenn Miller Jr. fatally shot them.

Weve all had to raise our security profile and its something that I would rather not do for my synagogue, but I have to do it, Alpert said. And this would only make it worse.

Supporters of the bill pointed to the need to protect themselves from potential criminals on buses.

William Bland, a member of the Western Missouri Shooters Alliance, told The Star Monday that concealed carry permit holders are among the most law abiding citizens, and the inability to carry a gun on a bus makes people more vulnerable.

We have gone through so much in order to obtain that permit, Bland said. Were very careful about it. Weve been trained, so I dont see the opposition.

Representatives and lobbyists from organizations and transit associations in the major cities in Missouri  Kansas City, St. Louis, Springfield and Jefferson City  all testified against the bill.

Kimberly Cella, the executive director of the Missouri Public Transit Association, previously told The Star that allowing guns on public transit would seriously jeopardize federal funding for non-profit transit providers like OATS Transit and SMTS, Inc.

Those providers, Cella said, have private contracts and receive federal funding, and there are requirements in those contracts that prohibit guns on transit. The bill would jeopardize those contracts and the matched federal funding, Cella said.

Both St. Louis and Kansas Citys transit systems are bi-state operations governed by a federal compact that prohibits guns on public transit, and Cella said it is her understanding that that compact would supersede the bill and not apply to transit in those cities.
A 32-year-old mother of three was found dead near an abandoned barn in Washington, authorities and her family said.

JoAnna Speaks body was discovered before 6 p.m. April 8 in Ridgefield, the Clark County Sheriffs Office said in a news release.

Her body was identified by the Clark County Medical Examiners Office, and her death is being investigated as a homicide, deputies said April 18.

There were indications her body was moved near the barn after she died, deputies said.

This world will not be the same without her ... beautiful soul. She was definitely one of a kind, her sister Robyn Speaks wrote on Facebook.

JoAnna Speaks had three kids, a loved one wrote on Facebook. She had two sons, 13 and 12, and a 7-year-old daughter, according to a GoFundMe created by family to raise money for her funeral expenses.

JoAnna is survived by her three children, her parents/step-parents, three biological siblings, four step-siblings, three nieces, and one nephew, her family said on the fundraising post.

Authorities ask anyone with information about her death to contact the Clark County Sheriffs Office Major Crimes Unit Tip Line at 564-397-2847.

Ridgefield is about 25 miles north of Portland.

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Gulfport police have arrested a man and woman in connection with the beating death of a 5-year-old child, according to a Gulfport police press release.

Denzel Jamal Blakely, 29, is jailed in Harrison County on one count of capital murder in the April 14 killing of the boy, identified by Harrison County Coroner Brian Switzer as Edward Lamptey. Lachelle Renae Washington, 31, is being held on a charge of child deprivation of necessities resulting in substantial harm.

Washington is the mother of the child and Blakely is the stepfather, Switzer told the Sun Herald.

An investigation began shortly after police responded to a call for a medical emergency involving the child at a home in the 3300 block of 39th Avenue around 7:15 a.m. on April 14.

The child was pronounced dead at Memorial Hospital in Gulfport the same morning. The release said that the cause of death was blunt force trauma, and both suspects admitted their alleged roles in the childs death.

Blakely is being held without bond because he is charged with capital murder, which is a murder committed during the commission of another felony crime.

Washington is being held on a $50,000 bond.

No other information was released from police.

To report information, call the Gulfport Police Department at 228-868-5959 or Mississippi Coast Crimestoppers at 877-787-5898.
A 53-year-old woman who immigrated to the United States from Poland was fatally stabbed by her adult son, Illinois police say.

The Kane County States Attorneys Office announced Monday, April 17, the arrest of Michal Wybraniec, who is accused of killing his mother, 53-year-old Beata Wybraniec.

The killing happened Sunday, April 16, authorities say, in South Elgin, about 40 miles northwest of Chicago.

Michal Wybraniec, 30, used a knife to stab his mother multiple times inside the home they shared, according to the states attorneys office.

Beata Wybraniec attempted to flee from (her son) but he caught her outside and resumed stabbing her, authorities said.

A motive for the killing is unclear. Michal Wybraniec was arrested and charged with first-degree murder and armed violence, according to the states attorneys office.

A $2 million bail has been set for his release from jail.

According to an obituary, Beata Wybraniec was a mother of three known as a beautiful, compassionate and faithful woman.

She will be remembered for her personality to handle all situations with calmness and her ability to counsel anyone in need, the obituary states. She found happiness in all things, and her love for dancing and singing will be remembered forever.

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ULAN BATOR, April 18 (Xinhua) -- A strong wind and a heavy dust storm are hitting the western part of Mongolia, the country's meteorology and environmental monitoring agency said Tuesday.

The wind speed is reaching up to 40 meters per second in the western provinces of Zavkhan, Bayan-Ulgii, Uvs and Khovd, the weather agency said, urging the public, especially nomadic herders and drivers, to take extra precautions against possible disasters.

The strong wind and heavy dust storm are expected to reach central and southern Gobi provinces of the country Tuesday night and continue to reach the eastern part of the country on Thursday, with an average wind speed expected to reach 18 to 24 meters per second, the agency warned.

Mongolia has a harsh continental climate as strong winds, snow and dust storms are common during the spring.

Climate change-related desertification is the main factor behind the increasing frequency of yellow dust storms in Mongolia in recent years, according to the Ministry of Environment and Tourism.

The Asian country has a total land area of 1,564,116 square km, and around 77 percent of the country's total territory has been somehow affected by desertification and land degradation, according to official data. 
When Henry Dyer started reeling in his line, he couldnt have known that his catch would make history.

Out fishing with a friend on Cherokee Lake in eastern Tennessee on April 13, Dyer reeled in a paddlefish, and it was a monster WTVC reported.

When I snagged that thing, I thought Id hung on a stump and then all of a sudden it just took off, Dyer told WTVC. The fish made five long runs. It took about 35 minutes for me to get it to the boat.

The fish was weighed at an official station where they thought it may be a new state record, according to a Facebook post from the Hawkins Farmers Co-op.

They were right.

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency announced the new record in an April 18 Facebook post.

Weighing in at 149 pounds, the 6.5-foot beast is officially the largest paddlefish ever caught in the state of Tennessee.

American paddlefish can grow to lengths of 7.2 feet and reach 200 pounds and are found in the Mississippi River Basin, Lake Huron and parts of southern Canada, according to the Encyclopedia Britannica.

Its a big deal, at least in my mind it is, Jason Henegar, assistant chief of fisheries for the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, told ABC News Channel 9.

The previous record for paddlefish in Tennessee was held by Chad Collins, who caught a 120-pound fish in the Cherokee Reservoir in April of last year, according to state records.

Not only did Dyers fish break the record for paddlefish, it may be the largest fish ever caught and recorded in the state.

Since records have been kept, the largest fish ever caught in the state was a 130-pound blue catfish. The fish was caught in 1976, state records show.

That makes Dyers fish even more impressive.

Dyer gave the fish to the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency to aid in their research, ABC News Channel 9 reported.

Congratulations. Fish of a lifetime, one person commented on the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency post.

You truly can tell a huge fish story! another said.

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In the days since Dyer caught the fish, you cant wipe the smile off my face, he told ABC News Channel 9.

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Pending the signature of Montanas governor, Greg Gianforte, the state is prepared to ban TikTok on personal devices as well as bars app stores from offering TikTok. It would be the first state in the U.S. to pass legislation prohibiting downloads of the wildly popular video-streaming app within state lines.

KTVH reports that Montanas House of Representatives voted 54-43 in favor of the bill on Friday afternoon. This comes on the heels of the states Senate approval of the bill back in March. Set to go into effect in January 2024 if signed, SB 419, as the bill is known, would fine any entity $10,000 for even discrete violations of the ban, with an additional $10,000 for each day the violation continues. Montana also banned the use of TikTok on state devices last year.

As the Wall Street Journal reported, Its unclear how some elements of the legislation would be enforced, but the penalties would apply to ByteDance or the app store from which the app was downloaded, including Apple and Google.

Should the United States enact a federal ban on TikTok or if TikTok severs its Chinese connections, the bill explains, it would be void. Montanas GOP-controlled legislature sure is leading this effort, which is more sweeping than bans in place in nearly half the states and even the federal government.

TikTok is owned by the Chinese tech company ByteDance, which has been under intense scrutiny over concerns it could give user data from its 150 million TikTok accounts to the Chinese government to spy on U.S. citizens or use the personal data to push pro-Beijing disinformation on the platform.

This development also follows the Biden administrations continued negotiations with TikTok, directing it to divest from its Beijing-based corporate parent company or risk a nationwide shutdown.

Furthermore, bill S.686 has gathered bipartisan support to give the Department of Commerce the authority to ban apps controlled by foreign adversaries, which could apply to TikTok. In March, TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew faced brutal questioning from lawmakers in Washington where he attempted to subdue bipartisan fears about the viral app.

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According to NPR, supporters of the ban point to a 2017 Chinese intelligence law that requires private companies to hand over data about consumers if requested, despite TikToks response that it would never comply in that circumstance.

TikTok has also been pushing back and preparing to challenge the ban. Their spokesperson, Brooke Oberwetter, told Insider via email, The bills champions have admitted that they have no feasible plan for operationalizing this attempt to censor American voicesWe will continue to fight for TikTok users and creators in Montana whose livelihoods and First Amendment rights are threatened by this egregious government overreach.

This ban is censorship, pure and simple. Hundreds of thousands of people in Montana use TikTok to communicate, get the news, and express themselves. We won't stop fighting against these unconstitutional bans  in Montana and at the federal level. https://t.co/LQhRSQZ0GU  ACLU (@ACLU) April 15, 2023

This is significant for supporters as it lays the groundwork for other states to follow suit. A federal court challenge is expected soon, likely setting up a legal battle that could even land in front of the U.S. Supreme Court.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine presents his budget at the State of the State event at the Ohio Statehouse in January

The Ohio House introduced its own version of the state budget Tuesday, and it included a $1 billion tax cut, higher income limits for school vouchers, and a TikTok ban.

The 5,300-page proposal, known as House Bill 33, is the second version of a plan to spend more than $86 billion over the next two fiscal years.

Gov. Mike DeWine gave lawmakers his budget proposal in February.

More: Gov. Mike DeWine pushes for targeted tax relief, education spending in budget

Many of the items on the governor's wish list, like a plan to change how Ohio's children learn to read, remain, but the House made some important changes. Here's a look at what changed and what stayed the same:

Tax cuts

DeWine didn't propose overall income tax cuts in his budget. Instead, he added specific deductions for certain groups like people with children, affordable housing developers and first-time home buyers.

The House, however, decided it wanted a $1 billion tax cut that combines the two lowest income tax brackets into one and lowers the rate.

"Rather than bringing the top brackets down, we kind of did a bottom-up approach," Rep. Jay Edwards, R-Nelsonville, said. "We're really trying to help middle-income people."

The House's budget kept DeWine's request to eliminate sales tax on baby products like diapers and formula, but it added a deduction for the residents of East Palestine.

Payments to compensate for lost income following the Feb. 3 train derailment could be deducted from residents' income taxes if the federal government labels the accident a "qualified disaster."

Social media

TikTok, WeChat and other services "owned by an entity located in China" would be banned from government devices under the House budget. But a plan to require parental consent for minors who use social media was pulled from the proposal.

That doesn't mean parental consent is going away. Edwards told reporters a separate bill is in the works that would do more than require parental consent to create social media accounts. It would allow parents to sue companies like Facebook, TikTok and Instagram if their children got around the system and got harmed.

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"The framework that was set forward in the governor's budget was you had to go to the attorney general, and the attorney general had to choose to take your case up and it was really out of people's hands," Edwards said. "We think people should be able to make those decisions.

School funding

DeWine's budget increased the income limits for Ohio's school voucher program, known as EdChoice, from 250% to 400% of the federal poverty level. That would amount to $120,000 of annual income for a family of four.

Republicans in both the House and Senate have introduced bills that go further, proposing a universal voucher system where every Ohio child is eligible. But the House budget didn't include those proposals.

Instead, it recommended moving the income limit up to 450%, or $135,000 in annual income for a family of four.

The House budget would continue implementing the new school funding formula that lawmakers passed in the last two-year budget.

State representatives also folded $388 million that DeWine wanted for school resource officers into the overall public education budget.

"I have a county, Morgan County, they have times when they don't have a law enforcement officer in the county," Edwards said. "How are we going to take someone and put them in a school, or mandate that they put them in a school?"

Education policies

DeWine has been traveling the state, pushing for a change in how children are taught to read since he introduced his budget earlier this year.

Known as the science of reading, the governor's budget required all public and charter schools to use curricula that followed this method by the fall of 2024. Districts would also be banned from using another method, known as cueing, that teaches children strategies to decipher unfamiliar words, like looking at a picture or known words.

More: Gov. DeWine: Science is 'abundantly clear,' some Ohio schools teach reading wrong

The House budget kept this plan, but it reduced the allocated amounts for teacher training in the science of reading and new materials/books for schools using other methods.

State representatives also eliminated a requirement that students who fail the third-grade reading exam be retained and removed some licensing requirements for military veterans who want to teach.

Rape kit testing

Survivors of "sexually oriented" offenses would get the rights to information about their rape kits if the House budget proposal becomes law.

Ohioans could request information about whether a DNA was found, whether that DNA matched someone in a state or federal database and the kit's estimated destruction date. And all entities that retain sexual assault kits would have to submit annual reports about their inventory to the Ohio Attorney General's office.

Wages for in-home healthcare workers

DeWine increased Medicaid's reimbursement rates, and the House went even further in its budget proposal.

DeWine's plan raised home and community-based provider rates by $1.2 billion over the biennium, which amounts to an average rate increase of approximately 19%. And the House tacked on another $110 million per year to bring the hourly rates for these workers to $17 in fiscal year 2024 and $18 in 2025.

"I wish we could get them to $25," Edwards said. He plans to push the Senate to increase those rates even further if the state's financial forecast improves between now and June.

More: 'We lost everything': Ohio mom says Medicaid's low rates delayed care for her daughter

Hunting and fishing

The House budget would move the start of gun season for deer from the Monday after Thanksgiving to Black Friday. And it would modify the laws that govern how wildlife officers enter private properties.

Officers would need a warrant before inspecting containers when they suspect illegal hunting and before searching private land. The exception to the latter would be if the officer obtained permission from a landowner.

Flavored tobacco products

Another proposal removed by the Ohio House was a ban on the sale or distribution of flavored tobacco products.

Lawmakers tried to pass a law late last year to prohibit cities and other local governments from restricting the sales of these products, but DeWine vetoed it.

"Were dealing now with young peoples lives," DeWine said at the time. "When a local community wants to make the decision to ban these flavors to protect their children, we should applaud those decisions."

Correction: An earlier version of this story incorrectly stated the status of a proposal to eliminate the sales tax on baby products.

Anna Staver and Laura Bischoff are reporters for the USA TODAY Network Ohio Bureau, which serves the Columbus Dispatch, Cincinnati Enquirer, Akron Beacon Journal and 18 other affiliated news organizations across Ohio.

Get more political analysis by listening to the Ohio Politics Explained podcast

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Ohio budget: Tax cuts, TikTok ban, school vouchers
The Moscow City Court made a decision to leave in custody the reporter of The Wall Street Journal, Evan Gershkovich, accused of espionage.

Source: Russian state-owned news agency RIA Novosti, CNN

Details: US citizen Evan Gershkovich appeared at a meeting on Tuesday, 18 April, to challenge the conditions of his detention.

Gershkovich asked to be transferred to house arrest, the defence offered to release him on bail of RUB30 million [approx USD366,900  ed.], the court refused.

The Moscow City Court left the American journalist in custody, recognising the decision to arrest him as legal.

US Ambassador to Russia, Lynne Tracy, said she spoke with Gershkovich on Monday, and he stays strong and in good health.

"The charges against Evan are baseless, and we call on the Russian Federation to immediately release him," the diplomat said, speaking after the court issued its decision on Tuesday.

Jailed Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich has been denied an appeal to change the terms of his detention at a court hearing in Moscow https://t.co/jzpmenxj4X pic.twitter.com/Vm3AVRlaoA  CNN (@CNN) April 18, 2023

Background:

On 29 March, the Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation (FSB) detained Evan Gershkovich, a Wall Street Journal reporter, in Yekaterinburg, and a criminal case had been opened against him for espionage.

The Moscow court ordered to detain Evan Gershkovich until 29 May.

The Wall Street Journal denied the accusations of espionage against journalist Evan Gershkovich and demanded his release.

The US Department of State designated Gershkovich "wrongfully detained".

According to the media, Russian President Vladimir Putin personally approved the arrest of US reporter Evan Gershkovich whom Russia accuses of espionage.

On April 15, journalist Evan Hershkovich wrote his first letter to his relatives from the Lefortovo detention centre, and on April 17, the US ambassador to Russia, Lynne Tracy, visited him in the detention centre for the first time.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
Russian conscripts called up for military service at a railway station in Omsk in November. REUTERS/Alexey Malgavko

The Kremlin has promised high pay to Russians who perform military service in Ukraine.

But there are already reports of Russian troops not getting paid on time or at all.

Anger over pay issues could worsen the already poor morale among Russian troops in Ukraine.

Hoping to mollify citizens thrown into a less than popular war, Russia has boosted pay for recent draftees. But this is creating other problems.

Not only are personnel costs devouring one-third of the defense budget, but in some cases, newly conscripted troops are being paid more than combat-experienced officers, including the ones training them.

"In all my military service, I have never seen ordinary soldiers get more than the officers who command them," Yuri Netkachev, a retired lieutenant general, told Russian newspaper Nezavisimaya Gazeta.

The 300,000 draftees called up last year in the "partial mobilization" announced by President Vladimir Putin have been promised monthly pay of up to 200,000 rubles, or $2,430 at current exchange rates. That's bountiful compared to the 2,000 rubles, or $24, a month that conscripts earned in 2020 and the 62,000 rubles, or $757, a month paid to volunteer contract soldiers that year.

There are also signing bonuses for volunteers. (The Kremlin is promising cash for other accomplishments in Ukraine, like destroying enemy tanks.)

Conscripts at a Russian military conscription office in Grozny in November 2014. AP Photo/Musa Sadulayev

But an ordinary motorized infantry officer today will only receive a monthly minimum of 195,000 rubles, or about $2,370, with even a platoon commander only earning about 225,000 rubles, or $2,740, Ministry of Defense officials told Nezavisimaya Gazeta.

And officers receive their full pay only if they spend the entire month in enemy territory, said Andrey Poleshchuk, chairman of the All-Russian Trade Union of Military Personnel, according to the Russian outlet.

Netkachev said mobilized troops are being trained by officers who "as a rule" have combat experience. "But it turns out that these experienced warriors, who train 'green soldiers' called up from the civilians, to whom the state has already pocketed 200,000 rubles, receive several times less," Netkachev said, according to a translation by the US Defense Department's Foreign Military Studies Office.

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The conscripts' new salaries compare favorably with US military compensation. A US Army private earns a base pay of around $2,000 a month, while a newly minted second lieutenant gets almost $3,700, not counting any bonuses or allowances. And the cost of living in the US is far higher (though Russia's economic outlook is dour).

A Russian soldier instructs conscripts at a recruiting station in the city of Tambov in June 2014. Lev Vlasov/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

On the other hand, life in the Russian military is no picnic. Barracks are decrepit, the food is poor, and hazing of new conscripts  the notorious "dedovshchina"  is brutal and sometimes deadly. There are also complaints that soldiers are not receiving the money they were promised. Even the families of Wagner Group mercenaries killed in action are not getting the promised compensation  unless they can show the body.

Nonetheless, military pay looks generous compared to the civilian sector, where the average monthly wage is 63,000 rubles, or $770. While almost a million Russians, especially the affluent and the educated, have fled abroad to avoid conscription, military life may seem attractive to those from poorer, rural areas like Siberia, which have seen high casualties in Ukraine, and to impoverished ethnic minorities. (The US military faces the opposite problem, with a tight civilian labor market driving a recruitment crisis.)

Not that the Kremlin is motivated by generosity. What was supposed to be a quick, easy invasion of Ukraine has become a bloody stalemate where poorly trained soldiers are sent into battle with tanks from the 1950s. Despite government propaganda and appeals to patriotism, many Russians feel apathetic at best about the war.

In the long run, the question is whether the Russian economy  already hurting from Western sanctions  can afford the weapons needed to replace the thousands of armored vehicles, artillery pieces, and other weapons lost in Ukraine while paying the 1.5 million troops that Moscow wants in uniform.

Volunteers operate a mobile army recruitment spot in Moscow on April 13. Vlad Karkov/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

At present, personnel costs will devour at least 30% of planned defense spending, whereas previously the share of defense spending on military salaries wasn't more than 12% to 15%, according to Nezavisimaya Gazeta.

"If we take into account similar expenses for more than a million military personnel of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, then at least 1.5 trillion rubles [$18.2 billion] will be spent on the payment of monetary allowances per year," the article said. "That is, almost every third ruble planned in the expenditure side of the budget for national defense in 2023."

However, cutting military pay  or failing to pay salaries and bonuses  would be a risky move. Disputes over pay are a common cause of turmoil in the ranks. African militaries have seen mutinies over pay in recent years, and American veterans of World War I  the "Bonus Army"  marched on Washington in 1932 to demand money owed to them.

A coup by disgruntled Russian soldiers isn't likely, but for an army facing low morale and heavy losses, appeasing conscripts with extra pay could backfire if the government doesn't keep its promises.

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
Ralph Yarl Ben Crump Law

The mother of 16-year-old Ralph Yarl, the Black teenager who was allegedly shot by a white homeowner on Thursday after he went to the wrong home to pick up his siblings, says he is out of the hospital and recovering but is just starting to reckon with the emotional impact of the shooting.

"You can see that he is just replaying the situation over and over again and that just doesn't stop my tears either, because when you see your kid just sits there and constantly he just  tears are just rolling from both sides of his eyes, there's nothing you can say to him," Yarls mother, Cleo Nagbe, said in an interview with CBS Mornings on Tuesday.

Cleo Nagbe told @GayleKing that her son, 16-year-old Ralph Yarl, is crying "buckets of tears" as he recovers from two gunshot wounds.She said Ralph is replaying the situation over and over again. 12:30 PM - 18 Apr 2023

Nagbe told Gayle King that it took 12 hours to remove a bullet from her sons left frontal lobe, above his left eye, and he was also shot in his upper right arm. Hed mistakenly gone to the wrong home to pick up his twin brothers from a sleepover, who were a block away.

Andrew Lester Clay County Sheriff's Office

On Tuesday, the homeowner, 84-year-old Andrew Lester, turned himself in to authorities and was booked into jail. He has been charged with first-degree assault and armed criminal action.

Though Yarl is now recovering at home, Nagbe said the residual effect of the shooting will stay with him.

"While he was standing there, his brothers didn't run outside, but he got a couple of bullets in his body instead of a couple of twins coming up, out, and giving him a hug," she said.

Yarl will communicate when he can, but only because he is surrounded by a team of medical professionals, Nagbe said. She added her son mostly "just sits there and stares and the buckets of tears just roll down his eyes.

Story continues

In Clay County prosecutor Zachary Thompsons announcement of the charges on Monday, he noted that there was a "racial component" to the case but did not comment further on specifics.

The Yarl family is being represented by civil rights attorneys Lee Merritt and Ben Crump. In a joint statement released Monday, Crump and Merritt said the family had received news of the charges shortly after they had gotten off a phone call with President Joe Biden.

Moments after the family got off the phone with President Biden, who offered his prayers for Ralphs health and for justice, we learned that the prosecutor will be charging the man who is responsible for the deplorable shooting of this innocent boy," the statement read. "Gun violence against unarmed Black individuals must stop. Our children should feel safe, not as though they are being hunted. While this is certainly a step in the right direction, we will continue to fight for Ralph while he works towards a full recovery.

On Tuesday, Biden said in a tweet that he had spoken with Yarl and invited the 16-year-old to the White House once he recovers.

No parent should have to worry that their kid will be shot after ringing the wrong doorbell, Biden wrote on Twitter. Weve got to keep up the fight against gun violence. And Ralph, well see you in the Oval once you feel better.

According to Merritt , Yarls family expected to meet with prosecutors on Tuesday to discuss the case against Lester.

More on this
Map of Mozambique

Mozambique, which gained independence from Portugal in 1975, is still suffering from the effects of a 16-year civil war that ended in 1992.

Tensions remain between the ruling Frelimo party and the former rebel movement Renamo.

The discovery of offshore gas fields in 2011 offers the possibility of transforming the economy, but a jihadist insurgency has derailed plans.

Read more country profiles - Profiles by BBC Monitoring

LEADER

President: Filipe Nyusi

Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi

Filipe Nyusi, of the Frelimo party, won elections in 2015 and 2020.

He presides over a country on the cusp of tapping offshore gas fields that could transform the economy, although a jihadist insurgency in the north has put the state's ability to guarantee security in doubt.

MEDIA

Mozambique has several Indian Ocean islands that attract tourists

Television is a key medium. State-run radio operates alongside private FM stations.

Print media have limited influence.

Journalists who upset the authorities risk intimidation and threats and self-censorship is commonplace, says Reporters Without Borders.

TIMELINE

Some key dates in Mozambique's history:

Mozambique's Portuguese influence is much in evidence in the capital Maputo

1752 - Portugal colonises Mozambique.

1962-74 Independence struggle: Front for the Liberation of Mozambique (Frelimo) formed.

1975 - Independence: Frelimo sets up single-party system, leading to civil war.

1990 - Constitution amended to allow multi-party system.

1992 - UN-brokered peace deal ends fighting between Frelimo and the rebel Mozambique National Resistance (Renamo).

1994 - First multi-party elections.

2017 - A jihadist insurgency begins in the north, delaying the development of promising offshore gas fields.
Mrs. Davis is a deeply silly show deeply committed to its silliness. And that's precisely what makes it so much fun. The new Peacock series from Tara Hernandez (The Big Bang Theory) and Damon Lindelof (Lost, The Leftovers), pits a nun with a mysterious past against an all-powerful, seemingly omniscient artificial intelligence. Her mission: to find the Holy Grail. You know, another one of those stories. Along the way, there are a slew of messy beheadings, a cheesy '90s-era car chase and a group of villainous German henchman spiritually descended from The Big Lebowski's trio of Nihilists.

If you were looking for another complex genre exercise like Lindelof's excellent Watchmen series or The Leftovers, Mrs. Davis ain't it. But from the first scene of the show, you can tell that he probably had a lot more fun making this. Initially based on a spec script by Hernandez, who also served as showrunner, Mrs. Davis is practically a live-action cartoon, filled with colorful set-pieces and a never-ending slew of zany characters, all set in a world where humans willingly subject themselves to the demands of an AI via wireless earbuds.

None of Mrs. Davis would work without Betty Gilpin (GLOW, The Hunt) as its heart and soul. As Simone, the nun being targeted by Mrs. Davis, she effectively juggles a hard-edged cynicism with an openness to pure devotion. It's hard enough to be a believable action lead, it's even tougher to make that same character seem believably devout. By the time we see Simone racing through city streets on a motorcycle, while also wearing her nun habit, we fully buy Gilpin in the role. It's like seeing Kill Bill's The Bride with a samurai sword  it's sure to be an indelible pop cultural image. (And of course, it hearkens back to Abel Ferrara's cult revenge classic, Ms. 45.)

As a piece of cultural commentary, Mrs. Davis is practically allergic to subtext. It's a nun versus AI, what else do you need? It's easy to draw parallels between religious devotion and the way we live with technology today. That's particularly true when it comes to the explosive rise of generative AI. Is there really a huge difference between plugging in a string into ChatGPT or Midjourney and hoping for an interesting result, compared to putting your hands together and praying for divine help? And if AI ultimately ends up fulfilling our needs more effectively, wouldn't people treat it with a certain amount of religious reverence?

Story continues

These questions danced around my head as I watched Mrs. Davis, but the series itself is far more interested in goofy shenanigans and soapy plot twists than attempting any serious philosophical exploration. But I suppose even Damon Lindelof needs a vacation sometimes. Your enjoyment of the show will depend on well you sync up with its farcical wavelength. Why is there a group of well-funded, anti-AI militia bros, led by a shirtless buffoon? Don't worry about it, they're hilarious (Chris Diamantopoulos, one of the more memorable VC bros from HBO's Silicon Valley, truly commits.)

Mrs. Davis on Peacock

The idea for Mrs. Davis arrived in the early paranoid phase of the pandemic, Lindelof told us in an interview. During that time of sheer uncertainty  back when we were still wiping down groceries  Hernandez wished for an app that could just tell her what to do. "What if there was something that we trusted?" Lindelof said. He was also intrigued by the role of algorithms in our lives, something he noticed while going down YouTube and Tiktok rabbit holes with his teenage son.

Mrs. Davis was written and produced long before ChatGPT and other generative AI tools reached the public, but its release couldn't be better timed. Despite just making a show about an all-powerful algorithm, Lindelof is intrigued by the new AI tools. "Artificial intelligence is basically coded to give us what we want," he said. "And so, never before in the history of of technology have we had more of an opportunity to get clarity on what it is we want.... What is human existence? What is the meaning of life?"

Mrs. Davis on Peacock

If Mrs. Davis more effectively wrestled with those questions, it would have been another prestigious series for Lindelof. Instead, it feels more like a creative exercise, one that gave Hernandez the opportunity to move beyond the world of sitcoms.

"I think that we we have an unprecedented opportunity for the greatest therapist in the history of of of our species to tell us, here's what you really are like," he added. "For any fan of Douglas Adams, we now have that computer that's going to spit out "42" [Adams' comedic answer to the meaning of life]. I'm just curious to see what it says."

The first four episodes of Mrs. Davis premiere on Peacock on April 20th.
As funding for college diversity, equity and inclusion programs across the country face the chopping block, state lawmakers are seeking information about how much money is being funneled towards the initiatives in South Carolina.



Following similar requests in other red states, the S.C. Commission on Higher Education asked each of the states 33 public colleges and universities for spending associated with diversity, equity and inclusion  or DEI  in early February.







The request, which was obtained by The State, asked for the cost of any policy, procedure, program, training or activity associated with race, ethnicity, gender identity or sexual orientation, as well as efforts referencing social justice, intersectionality and more.







The commission found that S.C. colleges and universities spent a combined $8.3 million on these programs, according to self-reported figures collected by the Commission on Higher Education and obtained by The State.



State Rep. Shannon Erickson, R-Beaufort, chair of the House Education and Public Works Committee, told The State that the numbers provided were all over the map.







DEI costs were broken down by the amount of money spent on salaries, operations and trainings. Below are the combined one-year spending totals for each state school.

Four-year colleges and universities

 Citadel Military College of South Carolina: $129,615.95



 Clemson University: $2,520,097.94



 Coastal Carolina University: $488,741.21



 College of Charleston: $707,228



 Francis Marion University: $64,750.75



 Lander University: $31,582



 Medical University of South Carolina: $1,213,566



 South Carolina State University: $0



 University of South Carolina - Aiken: $120,390



 University of South Carolina - Beaufort: $9,065



 University of South Carolina - Columbia: $1,723,412



 University of South Carolina - Upstate: $334,495



 Winthrop University: $59,109

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Two-year regional colleges

 University of South Carolina - Lancaster: Unknown

 University of South Carolina - Salkehatchie: Unknown

 University of South Carolina - Sumter: Unknown

 University of South Carolina - Union: Unknown

Technical schools and community colleges

 Aiken Technical College: $31,662

 Central Carolina Technical College: $148,140

 Denmark Technical College: $16,686.90

 Florence-Darlington Technical College: $0

 Greenville Technical College: $141,547

 Horry-Georgetown Technical College: $249,758

 Midlands Technical College: $50,000

 Northeastern Technical College: $20,208.57

 Orangeburg Calhoun Technical College: $15,083

 Piedmont Technical College: $5,000

 Spartanburg Community College: $0

 Technical College of the Lowcountry: $39,903

 Tri-County Technical College: $0

 Trident Technical College: $1,000

 Williamsburg Technical College: $16,496.74

 York Technical College: $36,795.06
Chloe-Rose Adkin has followed in her mother Helen's footsteps after they were both crowned winners of national beauty pageants 12 months apart. (Chloe-Rose Adkin/SWNS)

A mum and daughter are celebrating having both been crowned winners of a national beauty pageant just 12 months apart.

Chloe-Rose Adkin, 22, from Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, has followed in her mother's footsteps and is now the new Miss Galaxy 2023, a year after her mum Helen, 58, won the UKs National Classic Ms title at the same venue last summer.

Chloe-Rose has been taking part in pageants since she was 15 after getting scouted for the competitions.

She decided to enter her mum into her first pageant, without her knowing, and a year later Helen was shocked to scoop the winner's crown.

Helen, who is a council worker, said she was apprehensive taking part in the pageant at first and worried she was too old for the stage but soon gained confidence hearing the crowd cheer her on.

Read more: First lesbian Ms Great Britain finalist will use platform to tackle prejudice and empower plus-size women

Helen Adkin after winning the UK's National Classic Ms title last year. (Chloe-Rose Adkin/SWNS)

The mother and daughter duo now enjoy getting ready for competitions together and say its great being able to spend time doing something they both love.

I was trying to get my mum to compete for ages, but in the end I just decided to enter her into a pageant without her knowing," Chloe-Rose, an estate agent, explains.

She had been helping me compete for years, she loves watching them and is always with me anyway, so I thought why not just get her into it as well.

I wanted her to do something for herself and I thought this would be great.

People think we look similar, and everyone knows us as the duo.

Read more: Woman bullied for being 6ft 2 learns to embrace her height to become tallest Miss England contestant

Chloe-Rose Adkin and her mum pictured after Helen won the UK's National Classic Ms title last year. (Chloe-Rose Adkin/SWNS)

Helen, a mum of one, says she taking part made her feel empowered and believes pageants are for everyone.

"When I found out Chloe had entered me, I felt really nervous at first, but I really loved it," she says. "It gave me such a confidence boost.

"There were a lot of other ladies who supported me through it, pageants are not just a young person thing anymore."

Story continues

Watch: Mechanic ditches repairing cars and greasy overalls to become beauty queen

Having taken her daughter to pageants since her teenage years, Helen says it was great having Chloe-Rose's support for her own event.

"I have been running around at competitions for Chloe for years, so it was really nice for her to be there for me when I needed her," she says.

"At my age we tend to do everything for other people, so it was amazing to just have this for myself and work towards something just for me."

Read more: Instagram campaigner wears purple glittery false eye to inspire others with sight loss

The mother and daughter duo say they love taking part in pageants together. (Chloe-Rose Adkin/SWNS)

Chloe-Rose says it was difficult to watch her mum up on stage as she knew exactly how she would be feeling.

"I was so nervous for her," she explains.

I knew everything she was going through and how nervous she would be so that was hard.

It was a role reversal.

Mum was very apprehensive before the competition, I think she thought she was too old to do it, but she loved it when she was on the stage.

It gave her so much confidence.

Chloe-Rose is now due to represent the UK in Florida in August this year. (Chloe-Rose Adkin/SWNS)

Chloe-Rose will now head to Orlando in August to represent the UK at the Miss Galaxy International Pageant finals, with her mum Helen by her side.

Im so honoured to represent the UK," she says of the forthcoming pageant. "It has been a four-year process and Im excited my dream has finally come true."

Additional reporting SWNS.
Chinese, Palestinian FMs hold phone talks

Xinhua) 09:38, April 18, 2023

BEIJING, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang on Monday talked over phone with Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad Al-Maliki.

During the conversation, Qin said that China is highly concerned about the recent intensification of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and the escalation of tensions, and has urged the UN Security Council to hold consultations and communicated closely with the international community to try to cool down the situation.

China strongly condemns the words and deeds that violate relevant UN resolutions, supports the resumption of peace talks between Palestine and Israel as soon as possible on the basis of the "two-state solution," and is willing to play an active role in this regard, he said.

For his part, Al-Maliki highly appreciated China's clear position on the Palestinian issue, thanked China for supporting the Palestinian national self-determination and independent statehood, and welcomed all efforts made by China.

He commended China for promoting the restoration of diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran, which demonstrates China's role as a responsible major country.

Qin stressed that China always supports the strategic autonomy of Middle Eastern countries and supports them in holding their future in their own hands, adding that China is willing to continue to make contributions to peace and stability in the Middle East.

The two sides agreed to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, promote cooperation in various fields and push the traditional friendly relations between the two countries to a new level.

The Palestinian side expressed firm support for the one-China principle and opposition to external forces' interference in China's internal affairs under the pretext of human rights.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Wu Chaolan)
NEW YORK, April 17 (Xinhua) -- U.S. oil prices suffered substantial losses on Monday on possible resumption of oil export from Iraq's semi-autonomous Kurdistan region via Turkiye's Ceyhan oil terminal.

The West Texas Intermediate (WTI) for May delivery dropped 1.69 U.S. dollars, or 2.05 percent, to settle at 80.83 dollars a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange. Brent crude for June delivery decreased 1.55 dollars, or 1.8 percent, to settle at 84.76 dollars a barrel on the London ICE Futures Exchange.

Iraq's federal government and the Kurdistan regional government have resolved technical issues essential to resuming the region's oil exports via the Turkish port of Ceyhan, said a report by Reuters on Monday.

Turkiye's Ceyhan port halted the shipment of oil from the Kurdistan region and Kirkuk province on March 25 after the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) ruled that export of oil from the Kurdistan region is subject to approval from the Iraqi central government.

Crude oil supply in the international market lost around 450,000 barrels per day due to measures taken following the ruling by the ICC.

The Iraqi federal government and the Kurdistan regional government signed an agreement on April 4 to resume Kurdish oil exports via Turkiye.

Traders also tend to book profits as oil prices struggle to gain additional growth momentum amid economic uncertainties.

"Given enough time we will get a bit of a pullback, simply because a lot of traders are sitting on nice gains that they would like to book sometime soon, especially if the market is not going to pick up more momentum," said Christopher Lewis, analyst with market information platform FX Empire.

The substantial rise of the U.S. dollar index on Monday also weighed on commodity prices denominated in the currency. 
The impact of Twitters changes under Elon Musk boiled over last week when NPR and PBS said they would no longer use the platform over misleading labels added to their accounts.

The departures are raising questions about whether more news organizations will follow NPR and PBS off of Twitter and what it means for both the media industry and Twitters viability.

Paul Barrett, deputy director of NYU Sterns center for business and human rights, called the departures part of the longer term erosion of Twitters credibility and the quality of content on it.

If you have prestigious mainstream resources that are known for being reliable basically setting sail and saying, Were not going to participate here anymore, I think inevitably users who have respect for those outlets are going to think twice about whether its worth checking in on Twitter, he said.

As the tension rises over how Musk is running Twitter, the billionaire CEO is continuing his selective media circuit. Following his interview with BBC News on the heels of adding the labels, Musk sat for an interview with Fox Newss Tucker Carlson in a conversation that aired Monday night.

Why NPR and PBS quit Twitter

NPRs headquarters in Washington, D.C. Photo: Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Image

After Musk took over Twitter at the end of October, he announced several changes to long-standing policies and moderation measures.

Musk expanded features on Twitter Blue  a service that lets users pay for blue check marks and other special perks  and allowed back users once banned, including former President Trump. Those moves led to concerns about how media figures would continue to use the platform.

Musks latest barb to the press was the addition of state-affiliated labels earlier this month to accounts for some news outlets, including NPR, PBS and BBC. While Musk eventually walked the labels back to government funded, the decision was a turning point that led NPR and PBS to quit the site.

Fred Brown, chair of the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) professional standards and ethics committee, said that while news organizations traditionally aim to report the news and not make the news, in a case like this its impossible for them to avoid being the news.

Story continues

News organizations should be very careful about doing activist things like boycotting a publication or a means of communication, in this case. But in this case they also have to make a strong statement that they do not agree with the character characterization that they have been given, Brown said.

The labels, he said, are simply inaccurate. The majority of funding for NPR and PBS comes from private donations, sponsorships, and member stations.

I think news organizations have a responsibility to identify things that are inaccurate, Brown said.

NPR and PBS arent the only legacy media brands Musks been picking fights with, either.

Twitter stripped The New York Times of its verified check mark earlier this month ahead of changes to remove some of the legacy check marks and instead ask users to pay for them.

Along with the change, Musk tweeted that the real tragedy of @NYTimes is that their propaganda isnt even interesting, and called their feed the equivalent of diarrhea.

A spokesperson for the Times said the newspaper is not planning to pay the monthly fee for check mark status for our institutional Twitter accounts.

Overall Twitter traffic visits are down

A sign at Twitter headquarters is shown in San Francisco on Dec. 8, 2022. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu, File)

Twitter never boasted the overall user numbers that other mainstream social media companies did, like Meta-owned Facebook and Instagram.

Twitter reported an average of 237.8 million daily monetizable users in its last quarterly earnings report released in July, before Musk took the company private. Meanwhile, Meta reported an average of 2 billion daily active users on Facebook in its December report.

Despite the lower user base, Twitter gained prominence for its reputation of being plugged into whats going on today in the news, and what a certain set of influential people are saying about the news, Barrett said.

As those people depart, I think inevitably, the profile of the site will diminish, he added.

Already, visits to Twitter overall have been down since January, according to data compiled by Similarweb.

Worldwide visits to the website dropped 7.3 percent year-over-year in March, marking the third straight month of declines, according to Similarweb estimates.

At the same time, theres been a drop in Twitter referrals to news websites in recent months, according to Similarweb data shared with The Hill. For example, Twitter referrals to The New York Times dropped from roughly 7.5 million in March 2022 to under 4 million this March.

BBC, which is now labeled as publicly funded on its Twitter account after pushing back on the government funded label, also saw a dip. Twitter referrals dropped from about 4 million in March 2022 to 2 million this March.

There was also an overall decline in social media referrals beyond just Twitter over the year, based on Similarwebs data.

Twitter is the leading source of traffic from social media referrals for many outlets analyzed by Similarwebs data.

That was not the case, though, for NPR. Twitter was the third leading source of traffic from social referrals, after both Facebook and Reddit, according to Similarwebs data.

The Hill reached out to Twitter for comment regarding the apparent decline in users and received only a poop emoji in response  the standard reply to emails sent to Twitters formerly active press office.

The Trump factor on Twitter

Twitters role in how it was used by the media was in part shaped over the past seven years by Trump.

The former president, as a candidate and president in office, used Twitter frequently to weigh in real time on events.

Trump, who is running again in 2024, was booted from Twitter in January 2021 after a pro-Trump mob rioted at the Capitol fueled by election misinformation spreading on Twitter and elsewhere online.

Musk restored Trumps account in November, but the former president has yet to return.

Twitter may have had some trouble in the post-Trump era regardless of its corporate management, but the takeover by Musk and his petulant and erratic management of the company, I think has really driven him to the edge of the cliff, Barrett said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Burmese-language Facebook posts shared repeatedly in Myanmar have mocked the ruling military junta for apparently using a misspelled banner at a Buddhist new year water festival. Comments on the posts indicated some social media users were misled by the posts, which actually shared images that were altered to insert the typo.

The posts shared two photos of water festival celebrations in front of the city hall in Yangon, Myanmar's largest city.

They appeared to show a stage with a sign in Burmese that reads: "The Water Festival Stage for Corpses".

"Arrest the one who wrote the signboard," the post's mocking Burmese-language caption read on April 14, 2023.

A screenshot of a misleading Facebook post taken on April 17, 2023.

The photo circulated online during the Thingyan festival, usually a joyful celebration involving public water fights that welcomes in the new year in Myanmar.

The festival has become politicised since the coup in 2021, with pro-democracy advocates calling for boycotts of junta-supported events, as AFP has reported (link archived here).

It is one of Myanmar's twelve traditional festivals (link archived here).

The same image was also shared in Facebook posts here, here and here alongside a similar claim.

Comments from some users indicated they believed the purported typo on the festival banner was genuine, with one saying that whoever had written the message had been forced to flee out of fear of being punished.

"I can't stop laughing," another user wrote. "It's an omen," one other said.

However, the banner has been altered to insert the typo.

Doctored banner

A keyword search found the same photo published on the BBC Burmese Service's Facebook page (link archived here) published on April 13, the first day of the festival.

The first day of water festival in Yangon with tight security," part of the post's Burmese-language caption reads. "The evening view of the first day of the water festival in front of Yangon city hall and the people's park can be seen.

"Experts said that many people did not enjoy the water festival to show their sadness for hundreds of people died in Pazi Gyi village during military airstrikes in the past few days."

Story continues

In the original photo, a sign above the stage reads, "The Holy Water Festival Stage".

The BBC report refers to an air strike on Pazi Gyi village in central Myanmar, which killed at least 170 people in April. AFP also covered the attack (link archived here).

Below is a screenshot comparison of the photo in the misleading posts (left) and the photo from BBC Burmese's post (right), with the altered characters highlighted by AFP:

A screenshot comparison between the photo of the misleading Facebook post (left) and the photo from BBC Burmese' post (right), with the altered characters highlighted by AFP.

A similar photo was also published by Myanmar media outlet Eleven (link archived here) on the same day from a different angle.
The names of four of the eight Akron officers who shot and killed Jayland Walker accidentally appeared Monday in a presentation by Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost.

The video recording of the press conference was no longer available on the Ohio Attorney General's Facebook page Monday night.

Akron police chief: Names of 8 officers who shot Jayland Walker won't be released

Yost said during the presentation, which laid out findings in the state's 10-month investigation, that it would be up to Akron Police Chief Steve Mylett as to whether any of the officers would be named now that a grand jury in Summit County has declined to charge them criminally. Two slides, however, contained names of four of the officers.

Screenshots name Akron police officers in Jayland Walker shooting

The slides include screenshots of footage from the four officers' body-worn cameras. The images capture the moments Walker sprang from his rolling vehicle while wearing a ski mask and the moment he turned toward police before being fired upon more than 90 times.

In the bottom right-hand corner of the still frame are the last names of four officers, which Mylett again said Monday the department is not releasing due to concerns for their safety after they received death threats.

Activists released eight names they claim to be the officers last fall.

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Ohio AG presentation identified 4 Akron police who shot Jayland Walker
An 18-year-old Nampa man will spend at least three years in prison after he fired a gun toward a police officer last year.

Jaden Martinez fled police officers attempting to detain him on a warrant near the 1900 block of 1st Street in Nampa in September, leading to a police pursuit.

Martinez made a slight left around a fence and as he turned, I could see something in his hands, Brian Jones, Nampa Police Department sergeant, wrote in an affidavit. I then heard a gunshot and saw a plume of dirt pop up approximately 10 feet in front of me.

The shot did not hit any officers and police reported no injuries, according to a Nampa Police Department news release in September.

Martinez was charged with felony assault or battery of a police officer for creating a well-founded fear in Officer Jones that such violence was imminent, as well as four additional charges, which were later dismissed, according to court documents.

He initially pleaded not guilty to all counts. In January, he changed his plea to guilty on the felony assault or battery of an officer. Third District Judge Davis VanderVelde sentenced Martinez on March 29, with three years fixed in prison and seven years indeterminate, meaning he wont be eligible for parole until serving three years.

Two nearby schools, Park Ridge Elementary and Endeavor Elementary, implemented a hall check while police searched for Martinez last year. During a hall check, students return to classrooms and continue with classroom activities while exterior and interior doors are locked, according to the Nampa School District website.

After officers located Martinez and took him into custody, they said Martinez made statements that didnt make any sense and indicated that he believed police were trying to kill him, according to the affidavit.

The Nampa mans four dismissed charges were use of a deadly weapon in commission of a felony, resisting or obstructing arrest, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia with intent to use.
(Bloomberg) -- NATO wants to strike a deal with China over rules outlining the responsible use of artificial intelligence and other disruptive technologies in the military domain, the alliances chief Jens Stoltenberg said Tuesday.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization is pushing to develop shared universal standards for new technologies, following up on an AI strategy agreed among the alliances members that outlines principles for responsible use.

The next step would be to engage with China, both on these values and principles but also to perhaps agree on some rules of the road for responsible use, Stoltenberg told a NATO conference on arms control and disarmament by video link. He added his staff was in regular contact with their counterparts in capitals including Beijing.

Leaders of the 31-member military alliance agreed last June that China is a systemic challenge as allies grow increasingly conscious of the security threat Beijing poses in a variety of arenas, particularly in the long term. The NATO chief has repeated warnings about Chinas efforts to build up its military and nuclear weapons, as well as what he has described as bullying behavior toward its neighbors and efforts to control critical infrastructure while spreading disinformation about the alliance.

We dont regard or assess China as an adversary but China poses some challenges to our interests, to our NATO values and to our security, Stoltenberg said Tuesday. That makes it even more important to engage with China because we see they are investing in new modern capabilities, long-range missiles, more than tripling the number of nuclear warheads in a few years.

Story continues

Stoltenberg said it would be in Chinas interest to provide more transparency about their nuclear arsenal, including with verifiable limits. China should be willing to sit down and engage in more arms control agreements, including limits on their number of nuclear warheads, he said.

Officials from more than 60 governments including the US, China and South Korea met in February in The Hague to discuss the ethical and legal consequences of using AI in the military. Two days of wide-ranging discussions resulted in dozens of governments signing a call to action which acknowledged the responsibility humans have when deploying AI in the military.

--With assistance from Katharina Rosskopf.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
The Navy has unveiled five design options for the services new national museum, which is slated to open in 2025 and provide greater access for the public.

The concepts stemmed from the Navys Artistic Ideas competition in which 37 architectural firms submitted proposals. The Navy then selected designs from five firms: Bjarke Ingels Group; DLR Group; Frank Gehry Partners; Perkins & Will, and Quinn Evans.

All five design ideas include a ceremonial courtyard, and plans to accommodate Navy artifacts including a Corsair aircraft, a Swift Boat and the sail of a submarine.

Now in the conceptual stage, the Navy envisions the future museum with greater public access, a new building, ceremonial courtyard and potential renovation of existing historical buildings.

Now in the conceptual stage, the Navy envisions the future museum with greater public access, a new building, ceremonial courtyard and potential renovation of existing historical buildings. (U.S. Navy)

Now in the conceptual stage, the Navy envisions the future museum with greater public access, a new building, ceremonial courtyard and potential renovation of existing historical buildings.

Now in the conceptual stage, the Navy envisions the future museum with greater public access, a new building, ceremonial courtyard and potential renovation of existing historical buildings.

Now in the conceptual stage, the Navy envisions the future museum with greater public access, a new building, ceremonial courtyard and potential renovation of existing historical buildings.

We are pleased to display five visions for the future of the National Museum of the U.S. Navy, Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro said, according to a Navy news release. While each concept is different, all of them show how we might celebrate our Navys accomplishments, honor our veterans and point the way toward the Navys future.

The new museum, to be built outside the Navy Yards Tingey Gate in Washington, D.C., will take up approximately 270,000 square feet and include about 100,000 square feet of net gallery space. The Navy announced the preferred location for the museum in October.

Navy picks location for new national museum

The concepts unveiled today are a crucial step in exploring what is possible for the new National Museum of the U.S. Navy, said retired Adm. Samuel Cox, the director of Naval History and Heritage Command and curator of the Navy, said in the news release. Well tell the story of the Navys history as it continues to unfold, and the ideas developed by our finalists herald a new way of honoring that history by inviting visitors to participate.

The Navys current museum opened in 1963 in an old gun factory within the Navy Yard.

Cox told Navy Times last year that the current museum is not meeting the mission of telling the Navys story to the American public.

The base is very hard to get into due to security requirements that have only gotten more stringent over the years, Cox said. So, we are not going to have the Navy the nation needs if we dont have the support of Congress, and you wont have the support of Congress if you dont have the support of the American people.

Story continues

Other museums the Navy operates include the National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola, Florida; the National Museum of the American Sailor in Great Lakes, Illinois; and the United States Navy Submarine Force Museum, in Groton, Connecticut.

The design ideas will remain on display for public viewing at the Navys existing National Museum on the Washington Navy Yard. Visit the museums website for hours and access guidance. NHHC plans additional public showcases this summer.

Anyone wishing to comment on the concepts can do so on the museums Facebook page, or by emailing the museum.
Nearly a quarter of South Sudan's population has been affected by years of unprecedented flooding, according to a report Tuesday by the UN Development Programme and the government's relief and rehabilitation commission.

Four straight years of flooding have impacted more than 2.6 million people across the world's newest nation, forcing many to turn to wild fruits and leaves for sustenance, the report said.

"Roads and bridges have been washed away, health facilities abandoned or destroyed, crops and pastures submerged under water, families destroyed and parents separated from their children," the commission's chairman Manase Lomole Waya said.

The floods also led to the deaths of 172 people caught by rising waters, the report said.

"The affected people and communities are mainly relying on support of relatives and friends, fishing, eating wild fruits and leaves, selling animals, as well as the limited humanitarian assistance supplied," it said.

The annual floods since 2019 -- a recent phenomenon that many experts link to climate change -- have turned 10 percent of the country's arable land to swamp at a time when two out of three South Sudanese do not have enough to eat.

The country has already had to grapple with deadly conflict, natural disasters, economic malaise and relentless political infighting since winning independence from Sudan in 2011.

Since then it has spent more than half its existence at war, with nearly 400,000 people dying during a five-year civil conflict that ended in 2018.

Last November, the United Nations warned that around two-thirds of South Sudan's population of 11 million people were at risk of severe hunger, surpassing levels seen even during the conflict in 2013 and 2016.

The UN blamed the humanitarian disaster on a combination of violence, poor macroeconomic conditions, extreme climate events and spiralling costs of food and fuel, as well as a decline in funding for aid programmes.

Four out of five in South Sudan live in "absolute poverty", according to World Bank figures for 2018.

Story continues

Although a 2018 ceasefire and power-sharing deal between President Salva Kiir and his deputy Riek Machar still largely holds, little progress has been made in fulfilling its terms.

The country remains one of the world's poorest despite large oil reserves, and its leadership has drawn fierce criticism from the UN for stoking violence and failing to improve living conditions for its people.

str/amu/js
Netflix is about to bring its fight against account sharing to the US. In Q1, we launched paid sharing in four countries and are pleased with the results, the company wrote in its Q1 letter to shareholders . We are planning on a broad rollout, including in the US, in Q2.

Since February , Netflix has offered paid account sharing in Canada, New Zealand, Portugal and Spain. The add-on allows primary account holders to pay an additional fee every month to share their Netflix service with up to two people outside of their household. As the main owner of an account, you can still watch on your phone and sign into the service on a device outside your home, like a smart TV at a hotel. Netflix also allows secondary users to convert their profiles into new accounts.

A Netflix account is meant to be shared in one household (people who live in the same location with the account owner), the company says on a support page . People who are not in your household will need to sign up for their own account to watch Netflix.
Under the new policy, Netflix users will have to pay a fee to share accounts with people outside of their households. Netflix

Netflix said it has delayed rolling out its paid sharing program to Q2 from Q1.

Under the new policy, members will pay a fee to share accounts with people outside of their households.

The program has faced backlash from many customers, with Netflix's co-CEO admitting it's an unpopular move.

Netflix has delayed its long-awaited password-sharing crackdown  but it could be coming any day now.

In its Q1 letter to shareholders timed with its earnings report, Netflix said it "shifted the timing" of the launch of paid sharing to Q2 from late Q1 due to tweaks it made to the program.

"We're pleased with the most recent launches of paid sharing, and while we could have launched broadly in Q1, we found opportunities to improve the experience for members. We learn more with each rollout, and we've incorporated the latest learnings, which we think will lead to even better results," the company said.

Netflix had initially said it would launch the program "more broadly" in Q1, which ended on March 31, after launching it in several countries, including New Zealand, Canada, and Spain. The program is now set to launch this quarter, which began at the start of April and runs until the end of June.

The streaming giant's plans to plow forward with its password crackdown have proven unpopular with some customers. Earlier this year, many users took to social media to announce that they would cancel their subscriptions once the policy went through.

"You're by far the most expensive streaming service w/o the value matching it. Sort your mess," one tweet from a politician in Ohio read.

Under Netflix's new "paid sharing" policy, members would have to pay a fee to share their accounts with people outside of their households. In Canada, users now have to pay an extra $CAD 7.99 per extra member.

In January, Netflix's co-CEO, Greg Peters, warned that password sharing would not be a "universally popular move," according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Netflix has said that its password-sharing crackdown results in a "cancel reaction" from some customers in countries where the program has already been tested.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Netflix envelopes Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

It's the end of an era for Netflix.

The company has announced it's officially ending its DVD rental business after more than two decades. "On September 29th, 2023, we will send out the last red envelope," Netflix said in a tweet. "It has been a true pleasure and honor to deliver movie nights to our wonderful members for 25 years."

Long before the rise of streaming, Netflix operated since 1998 as a service where subscribers could rent movies through the mail, and DVDs would arrive in a red envelope. It wasn't until 2007 that Netflix's streaming service launched.

But believe it or not, Netflix has maintained its DVD rental business all this time, though it now does so on DVD.com rather than the main Netflix site. The DVD service reportedly had more than two million subscribers as of 2019. In 2011, Netflix infamously announced plans to spin off its DVD business as Qwikster, but the idea was walked back after backlash.

On its DVD.com website, Netflix said "we've made the difficult decision to wind down" the service because "the DVD business continues to shrink." Discs will be shipped until the end of September, with returns accepted until the end of October. The decision comes after a challenging year for Netflix, which lost subscribers in 2022 for the first time in over a decade. On Tuesday, the company announced it added fewer subscribers than analysts expected.

"Those iconic red envelopes changed the way people watched shows and movies at home  and they paved the way for the shift to streaming," Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos said, thanking "everyone who ever added a DVD to their queue or waited by the mailbox for a red envelope to arrive."

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George Verwer: KP Yohannan Salutes Missions Legend Who Died April 14

MEDIA ADVISORY



Interview Availability



NEWS PROVIDED BY

GFA World

April 17, 2023







George Verwer(left) and KP Yohannan



KP Yohannan

WILLS POINT, Texas, April 17, 2023 /Christian Newswire/ -- Few people knew George Verwer, legendary founder of Operation Mobilization (OM), in the same way as KP Yohannan, founder of GFA World. From the earliest OM days in Asia, Yohannan recalls the unprecedented impact Verwer made on global evangelical missions over 60 years in the world's hardest places.



No One Tells the George Verwer Story Like KP Yohannan

"George Verwer challenged me as never before to commit myself to a life of breathtaking, radical discipleship," says Yohannan, also known as Metropolitan Yohan, who went on to launch Gospel for Asia (now GFA World, www.gfa.org), one of the world's biggest missions agencies.



Yohannan, author of the bestseller Revolution in World Missions that he dedicated to Verwer, will share with your audience or readers:

How as a barefoot teenager from a remote village in Asia his first encounter with Verwer turned his life upside down



The incredible story of the early years of OM



How Verwer's passionate challenge to "radical discipleship" still resonates with young people today, inspiring thousands to reject materialism and go "all out" for Christ

MEDIA, TV AND RADIO INTERVIEWS:



To arrange your fascinating interview with KP Yohannan, contact:

Gregg Wooding

972-567-7660 gwooding@inchristcommunications.com



SOURCE GFA World



CONTACT: Gregg Wooding, 972-567-7660, gwooding@inchristcommunications.com


Nicaragua on Tuesday barred the EU's designated ambassador following criticism of its "systemic repression" of dissent in the five years since anti-government protests were put down with a heavy hand.

Foreign minister Denis Moncada said the Central American country decided to block ambassador-in-waiting Fernando Ponz in response to an "interventionist, bold and insolent communique" from the European Union.

"In these circumstances and in the face of the permanent siege on the right of our people to national sovereignty, we will not receive their representative," Moncada said in a note addressed to Brussels.

The European Union, in a statement Tuesday, said that since 2018, when thousands took to the streets in anti-government protests, "the people of Nicaragua have faced systemic repression."

A clampdown on those protests, observers said, left more than 350 dead, hundreds imprisoned and more than 100,000 in exile, and prompted a UN Human Rights Council probe.

Since then, the government has jailed hundreds of critics, including several would-be challengers to President Daniel Ortega in 2021 elections, shuttered universities and trade unions and banned NGOs.

Ortega was a leader in the leftist Sandinista government that ruled Nicaragua 1979-1990, and won a vote to return to office in 2007, reelected in successive campaigns discredited by observers.

He has engaged in increasingly authoritarian practices, quashing presidential term limits and seizing control of all branches of state.

The United Nations and Western governments have repeatedly accused Ortega's government of illegally attempting to crush any and all opposition.

"The European Union has consistently condemned this repression, repeatedly calling for the liberation of all political prisoners, the full return to the rule of law as well as the return of international human rights organizations to the country," the latest EU statement said.

Story continues

Moncada hit back that the criticism was telling of the "imperialist and colonialist positions that characterize the European Union."

- 'Cry for justice' -

As ties with the West worsened, Nicaragua last year kicked out then-EU ambassador Bettina Muscheidt and denied entry to the new US envoy due to what it called an "interfering" attitude.

The bloc, in turn, declared Nicaragua's ambassador "persona non grata."

It also prolonged sanctions against 21 individuals and three entities given the "deteriorating political and social situation" in Nicaragua -- including Ortega's wife and vice-president Rosario Murillo.

The steps included an assets freeze and travel ban.

Also Tuesday, Amnesty International issued a report detailing the Ortega government's efforts to "silence human rights defenders, activists, journalists and any ... voices critical of the government; and to operate without any control or accountability."

The report, entitled: "A cry for justice: 5 years of oppression and resistance in Nicaragua," accuses the regime of a wide range of human rights violations including arbitrary detention, torture and extrajudicial killings.

The government maintains the 2018 protests were part of a failed coup backed by Washington.

It called a march for the capital Managua on Wednesday on what Ortega has declared a "Day of Peace" on the anniversary of the protests.

bur-fj/mlr/tjj
MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - Nicaragua has withdrawn its approval of the European Union's ambassador to the country, the Central American nation's foreign ministry said Tuesday, after an EU statement calling for a "return to the rule of law" in Nicaragua.

In a statement, the foreign ministry said the decision was due to the "interventionist, daring and insolent" position from the EU on Nicaragua.

Earlier in the day, the EU said in a statement it condemned the systemic repression Nicaraguans had faced since nationwide protests broke out five years ago on April 18, 2018.

"On this sad anniversary, the EU confirms its readiness to support all efforts aimed at a democratic, peaceful and negotiated solution to the protracted political crisis in Nicaragua," it added.

Nicaragua has declared the anniversary of the protests "The National Day of Peace."

Nicaragua's foreign ministry accused the EU of "crimes against humanity," without citing evidence. It said it "will not receive" the EU's nominee for ambassador to the country, Fernando Ponz.

Ponz was nominated for the role after Nicaragua declared the previous ambassador to the country, Bettina Muscheidt, "persona non grata" in September.

Press officials for the EU Commission did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

(Reporting by Mexico City newsroom; editing by Stephen Eisenhammer)
Nicki Minaj has joked that she will be attending the coronation of King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla on 6 May.

It comes after the rapper, 40, released a collaborative track with Ice Spice, titled Princess Diana, this week.

Promoting the new song, she tweeted on Monday (17 April): Ill be attending the coronation. Thank you. Stream Princess Diana until I land. Scones on dekk [sic]. Whole lotta gang s***.

Minaj added in a follow-up tweet: Fank you. Properly excited, really. Yes, it appears there was one seat open right next to [Prince] Harry.

I rang his telly [sic] and said: You be Harry Potter, and Ill be Hermione. We both loffed [sic]. Met him on the jet and now here we are. Ttyl.

However, the Anaconda rapper has not been named as a performer at the coronation concert, which is set to take place on Sunday 7 May.

Artists that have been confirmed as headliners for the concert include Katy Perry, Take That, Lionel Richie, Andrea Bocelli, Sir Bryn Terfel, Freya Ridings and Alexis Ffrench.

Minaj has also not been confirmed as one of the 2,000 invited guests at the ceremony by Buckingham Palace.

Nevertheless, fans were tickled by her joke on social media, with some suggesting Minaj should hold a private party at Buckingham Palace following the crowning.

The Kings coronation guest list does include some celebrities, including Absolutely Fabulous star Dame Joanna Lumley, who is reportedly a close friend of Charles.

Ill be attending the coronation. Thank you. Stream #PrincessDiana until I land 

scones on dekk

Whole lotta gang sh!t

  Nicki Minaj (@NICKIMINAJ) April 17, 2023

Sky News announced last week that Lumley will join correspondents Alastair Bruce, Kay Burley and Anna Botting in the news coverage right after attending the service.

Story continues

US First Lady Jill Biden will also attend the coronation, but without her husband, president Joe Biden.

It was also recently confirmed that the Duke of Sussex will attend the coronation, after months of speculation about his attendance due to the rift between him and the royal family.

Fank you. Proper excited, really. Yes, it appears there was one seat open right next to Harry. I rang his telly & said: You be Harry Potter, & Ill be Hermoine



We both loffed. 

Met him on the jet 

and now here we are 



Ttyl  Nicki Minaj (@NICKIMINAJ) April 17, 2023

However, the Duchess of Sussex will remain in California with their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, as Archies fourth birthday falls on the same day as the coronation.

According to a report, Harry held peace talks with Charles before confirming he would attend the coronation.

The Telegraph quoted a source close to the couple as saying that there had been some positive conversations between father and son. However, these reportedly did not extend to Harry and his brother, Prince William.

The duke was understood to be seeking an apology from the royal family over his grievances with them, chiefly over his allegations about the palace leaking and planting negative stories about Meghan in the press.

In an interview before the release of his memoir Spare earlier this year, Harry said the ball is in their court but the door is always open for reconciliation.
Map of Niger

A vast, arid state on the edge of the Sahara desert, Niger has seen a series of coups and political instability in the decades following independence from France in 1960.

Today the country struggles with frequent droughts and poverty.

Continuing threats to Niger's security stem from the fallout from the Libyan civil war, conflict in northern Mali, and several jihadist insurgencies in the region.

French and US forces are assisting Niger in countering these threats.

Niger is betting on increased oil exploration and gold mining to help modernise its economy.

See more country profiles - Profiles by BBC Monitoring

REPUBLIC OF THE NIGER: FACTS

Capital: Niamey

Area: 1,267,000 sq km

Population: 24.4 million

Languages: French, Arabic, Buduma, Fulfulde, Gourmanche, Hausa, Kanuri, Zarma, Songhai, Tamasheq, Tassawaq, Teb

Life expectancy: 60 years (men) 62 years (women)

LEADER

President: Mohamed Bazoum

Niger's President Mohamed Bazoum

Former interior minister Mohamed Bazoum was sworn in as president in April 2021, in Niger's first democratic transfer of power since independence in 1960.

His most immediate priority is the deadly jihadist insurgency causing chaos in parts of the country and across the broader Sahel region.

He has also made tackling corruption in the country a goal of his presidency.

MEDIA

Cyber cafe in Agadez

Niger's underdeveloped media sector reflects the country's poverty and low levels of literacy, which constrain media development and limit public access to some platforms and outlets.

The threat from jihadists is a further challenge to the media sector and those who work in it.

Radio is a key news source and local privately-owned stations operate alongside the national state broadcaster.

TIMELINE

Niger's 16th Century Agadez mosque is the world's tallest mud-brick structure

Some key events in Niger's history:

5th Century BC - region becomes an area of trans-Saharan trade. Led by Tuareg tribes from the north.

c. 300AD-1200s - Much of the region is part of the Ghana Empire, one of several major West African empires controlling trans-Saharan trade in gold, salt, other precious commodities - and slaves.

Story continues

c. 632-700s - Arab invasion of North Africa and subsequent spread of Islam.

c.1226-1670 - Mali Empire becomes dominant force in the upper Niger basin following the Battle of Krina in 1234.

c. 1464-1591 - as the Mali Empire loses some of its power, losing its dominance of the gold trade, the Songhai Empire gradually gains control over the eastern half of the Mali Empire.

1591 - The Battle of Tondibi. Songhai forces decisively defeated by the army of the Saadi dynasty in Morocco, who make Timbuktu their capital.

The fall of the Songhai Empire marks the end of the region's role as a trading crossroads. Area splinters into smaller kingdoms including the Kanem-Bornu Empire around Lake Chad, the Sultanate of Air in the north, and Hausa kingdoms and others.

1890s - France begins to colonise the area.

1904 - Military Territory of Niger is created, including what are now the countries of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, with its capital at Niamey.

1922 - Niger becomes a colony within French West Africa.

1958 - Niger became an autonomous state within the French Community.

1960 - Niger becomes independent, as a one-party civilian regime. Economic difficulties, droughts, corruption and food shortages trigger a military coup.

1974-1991 - First military regime. In the 1980s, the army gradually loosens its control over political developments.

1991 - Multi party elections held. Civilian rule.

1990-95 - Tuareg rebellion for independence in northern Niger, triggered by regional famines.

1996-99 - Military intervene to take power again.

1999-2009 - Civilian rule restored.

2007-09 - Renewed Tuareg rebellion amongst elements of the Tuareg people living in the Sahara desert regions of northern Mali and Niger.

2010-2011 - Military carry our coup d'etat in response to attempt by the president to extend his political term by modifying the constitution

2010 - A new constitution designed to restore civilian rule approved in referendum.

2011 - Civilian rule restored, and Mahamadou Issoufou becomes president.
Nine in 10 companies want workers with ChatGPT experience, according to a new survey that gauges job-market demand for knowledge of fast-evolving artificial intelligence (AI) communication tools.

An April poll of 1,187 business leaders by ResumeBuilder.com, the job-seeker site, found that 91 percent of firms are looking for workers with ChatGPT skills on the resume. Some companies reported an urgent need for employees who can converse with chatbots.

ChatGPT, a generative AI chatbot that launched in November, holds the potential to transform the American workplace, along with the classroom, the home office and pretty much anyplace else humans engage in written communication.

The interesting part is, this only became available to the world five months ago, said Stacie Haller, chief career adviser at ResumeBuilder. All of a sudden, we have a whole new job category, and some of these jobs are paying $200,000.

Already, corporate America has its own title for the ChatGPT specialist: prompt engineer.

All but unknown a year ago, the prompt engineer functions as a sort of chatbot whisperer, feeding carefully worded verbal prompts to the large-language model that yield accurate, relevant responses.

It takes skills to get useful answers, said Hatim Rahman, an assistant professor of management and organizations at Northwestern Universitys Kellogg School of Management.

You can prompt the model to give answers back in a specific way. You can say, Pretend you are a customer. How would you react to this product description? Things like that require some kind of understanding of how to get useful information from the model.

Starting salaries for prompt engineers can exceed $200,000, and a chatbot specialist might work across several departments. Theyll help HR do job descriptions. Theyll help marketing write copy. Theyll help IT write coding, Haller said. Thats why the salaries are so high.

Computer scientists predict the GPT family of AI chatbots could take over such human tasks as populating corporate correspondence and emails, drafting business plans and college essays, writing code, answering customer-service queries and crafting poetry.

Story continues

Business leaders who answered the ResumeBuilder survey reported an interest in hiring AI-skilled workers across the organization. Among them, 58 percent said they want ChatGPT-trained software engineers. Roughly one-third said they want people with chatbot knowledge in customer service, marketing or human relations. A smaller group seek GPT-savvy workers in data entry, sales and finance.

Companies seek ChatGPT experience up and down the chain of command, from the cubicle to the executive suite. Larger firms may want employees who can build a customized large-language model for the companys exclusive use.

And heres an ominous note: Among the companies seeking prompt engineers, 75 percent said those jobs will probably lead to the elimination of other jobs.

If you look throughout history, any new technology shakes up the workplace, Haller said. She cites the fax machine, which enabled speedy transmission of documents over telephone lines in the 1980s and 1990s.

Like the fax, the chatbot is not going to completely replace everything that youre doing, Rahman said. In the best case, it can augment and make you more productive in retrieving information.

Prompt engineers dont necessarily need computer-science credentials. A recent Time magazine feature profiled a chatbot specialist with an English degree.

The chatbot whisperers job is figuring out the right prompts to get the right response, Rahman said, a skillset that calls for critical thinking, a way with words and an adaptive brain: AI programs learn as they go.

The query that you write today is unlikely to yield the same answer tomorrow, or even the next time you use it, Rahman said.

ChatGPT is powered by parent company OpenAIs latest iteration of the technology, GPT-4, which launched in March. The updated technology built on the first model released to the public. Among other advancements, it can now accept prompts from images.

The chatbot tool is being offered to the public more widely since its November launch, including through Microsoft, which has invested billions into OpenAI and launched an updated version of its search engine Bing with the AI chatbot built in.

As ChatGPT, with Microsofts backing, grows in the public space, rival companies and startups are looking to expand as well. Last month Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, SpaceX and Twitter, founded a new AI company called X.AI, according to a Nevada business filing.

Google unveiled its own rival AI chatbot, Bard, in February, and last month the Silicon Valley giant said it is opening a waitlist for users to try it out.

As tech companies enter a generative AI arms race, and as employers seek workers with chatbot experience, regulators, activists and tech experts are sounding the alarm on risks it poses, spanning from the spread of misinformation to potential discriminatory biases within the tools.

Already, many corporate leaders see AI as a potential competitive advantage, something to adopt lest they be left behind.

They can be more creative, Haller said, summarizing comments from the surveyed firms. The company will grow faster. They can save money. Any company that wants to be cutting-edge needs to incorporate cutting-edge technology.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The man charged in connection with the deaths of two married Medford men who were found fatally stabbed in a storage unit in Boston has been ordered held without bail.

Leonid Volkov, 37, of Medford, was arraigned Tuesday in Somerville District Court on a charge of murder and larceny from a building in the deaths of Pavel Vekshin, 28, and Kiryl Schukin, 37, both also of Medford.

Volkov appeared before a judge wearing a gray Jurassic Park shirt. A not-guilty plea was entered on his behalf.

Vekshin and Schukin were last seen at the end of March and were reported missing by friends and coworkers on Sunday, April 9, Prosecutor Ceara Mahoney told the court. Their bodies were found in rubber bins inside a unit at the iStorage facility on North Beacon Street in Bostons Brighton section last week.

Schukins body had been dismembered and investigators found portions of his body scattered inside three storage bins, according to Mahoney. Both of the victims are said to have suffered numerous sharp force injuries.

Paperwork and personal items belonging to the victims were also found in the storage unit, in addition to trash bags, gloves, cleaning products, a blood-stained shower curtain and rug, bloody rags, and dismemberment tools, Mahoney said.

DA: Bodies of missing Medford men found in storage unit, suspect arrested and charged with murder

Investigators believe Volkov used the name of one of the victims to rent the storage unit.

My understanding is they were friends, said Defense Attorney Debra DeWitt. Theyd known each other for a period of time.

Prosecutors suggest that friendship went sour over the issue of a lease. Mahoney, the prosecutor, said for the past year, Schukin served as a guarantor of Volkovs lease for an apartment in Medford. That made him responsible for rent payments if Volkov defaulted.

Apparently, he did.

Mr. Schukin had recently learned that Mr. Volkov was in arrears on his rent payments, Mahoney said.

Because of that, Schukin informed Volkov he would no longer act as guarantor. Mahoney said the lease expired last month and eviction proceedings had begun for the Volkov family, which includes his wife and their two children.

Story continues

Schukin was seen conversing with Volkov inside the cab of a rented U-Haul truck on March 29, days before he was reported missing, investigators said.

The defendant admitted that he picked up Mr. Schukin in his U-Haul and drove Mr. Schukin to the area near his apartment, Mahoney said. The ostensible reason for that meeting: to discuss the lease. Volkov claims he brought Schukin back to his Locust Street apartment later that night.

That was on March 29th -- the last time Schukin was seen alive.

After Vekshin and Schukin were reported missing, Volkov was allegedly seen on surveillance video in and around Schukins apartment.

However, Mr. Schukin was not captured on surveillance re-entering the building that evening or thereafter, Mahoney said.

But surveillance did pick up the U-Haul van that night -- and on several occasions afterwards. It also captured a person dressed in black entering and re-entering the victims Locust Street apartment -- and carrying out items such as clothing, garbage bags and a pair of electric scooters.

Investigators believe Volkov was using the truck to transport items from the victims apartment to the storage facility.

Credit card records for the victims showed numerous purchases made at businesses throughout eastern Massachusetts in the time frame the victims were missing and believed to be deceased, said Mahoney. Receipts from those purchased were said to be found in the storage unit.

At some of those locations the same U-Haul van was spotted, as well, she said.

DeWitt said much of the states evidence is circumstantial.

Would it surprise someone that they did know each other and they were friends and that he was in and out of the apartment, she said. I think we all go in and out of our friends apartments on a regular basis so that doesnt surprise me at all.

BREAKING: Judge orders Leonid Volkov, 37, of Medford, be held without bail.



Hes charged in the stabbing deaths of Pavel Vekshin, 28, and Kiryl Schukin, 37, of Medford.



Prosecutors say he dismembered one of the bodies and hid them both in a storage unit @boston25 pic.twitter.com/of0XmgbdUu  Julianne Lima (@JulianneLimaTV) April 18, 2023

Volkov was arrested without incident in North Attleboro on Saturday.

The deaths of Vekshin and Schukin remain under investigation, and prosecutors say additional charges are forthcoming.

Volkov is due back in court on May 19.

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graphic

Claims that Covid leaked from a lab were once roundly dismissed as Trumped-up charges - the ravings of a US president who seemed maliciously hellbent on blaming China for the pandemic.

Now after 18 months of extensive research and analysis, a US Senate Committee has published its full 304 page report into the matter - and it makes for compelling reading.

The committee concludes that: The preponderance of circumstantial evidence supports an unintentional research-related incident.

It even appears that China had begun making vaccines before it had admitted to the world there was a dangerous virus running rampant through the country.

But it has taken a long time to reach this point.

When Covid-19 first emerged in Wuhan in December 2019, many pointed out that the outbreak was close to the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV).

Of all the cities in the world, a deadly coronavirus had popped up just eight miles from laboratories where scientists were importing and tinkering with deadly bat coronaviruses.

Even Wuhan scientists themselves were concerned. Dr Shi Zhengli, WIV virologist, told Scientific American that she remembered thinking if coronaviruses were behind the outbreak could they have come from our lab?

It should not have been so controversial. Laboratory leaks are fairly common, with smallpox, swine flu, anthrax, and foot and mouth disease all known to have escaped from facilities in recent decades.

In 2004, the Sars virus leaked from a high-containment research laboratory in Beijing at least three times, causing local outbreaks - so such a scenario was far from unprecedented.

Behind the scenes, international scientists were also worried. The virus had come out of nowhere, seemingly pre-adapted to infect humans, and no intermediary host could be found.

An email from Sir Jeremy Farrar, director of the Wellcome Trust, in February 2020 said that a likely explanation was that Covid had rapidly evolved from a Sars-like virus inside human tissue in a low-security laboratory.

Story continues

The email, to Dr Anthony Fauci and Dr Francis Collins, of the US National Institutes of Health, said that such evolution may have accidentally created a virus primed for rapid transmission between humans.

Sir Jeremy warned that research in Wuhan was like the Wild West, with experiments carried out at worrying biosecurity levels.

But Dr Collins, the former director of the US National Institutes of Health, argued that further debate on the subject could damage international harmony. The comment would come to typify why it has been so difficult to get to the bottom of the origins of Covid.

As Matt Hancocks original biography drafts show, the world was terrified of upsetting China.

Over the next few months, scientists did what they could to steer investigations away from a laboratory leak, pushing journals to publish letters and papers that dismissed concerns as conspiracy theories.

Only in the US was the possibility being seriously considered, where Mike Pompeo, the US secretary of state, argued there was enormous evidence that the virus had leaked from Wuhan.

In May 2020, US intelligence discovered there had been an emergency shutdown at WIV in October 2019, coupled with a suspicious fall in mobile phone activity.

But the political gulf between the Trump administration and most scientists led to the allegations being disparaged as anti-Chinese racism.

When an investigation by the World Health Organisation concluded that the virus had most likely jumped from animals to humans in a zoonotic spillover event, the case seemed closed.

In fact, it was not until Mr Trump left office in January 2021 that the tide began to turn and slowly scientists put their heads above the parapet.

In a letter to the journal Science in May 2021, 18 of the worlds top epidemiologists and geneticists from institutions including Cambridge, Harvard and Stanford universities called for an independent inquiry into the origins of the pandemic.

By that time, a collective of virologists and hackers had also found evidence showing that Wuhan scientists had been tweaking bat coronaviruses to make them more deadly - and doing so with funding from the US government.

In 2010, WIV embarked on gain of function experiments to increase the infectiousness of Sars coronavirus in humans. By 2015, Wuhan scientists had created a highly infectious chimeric virus that targeted the human upper respiratory tract.

In 2018 and 2019, grants from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases in the US showed that Dr Zhengli had applied to work on virus infection experiments in humanised mice using Sars coronaviruses - to find out what changes could lead to a spillover event into humans.

As Harvard scientist Alina Chan told MPs at the House of Commons science and technology select committee: You find these scientists who said in early 2018: Im going to put horns on horses, and at the end of 2019 a unicorn turns up in Wuhan city.

Freedom of Information requests also revealed that under the US-China Predict project, Wuhan researchers collected bat coronaviruses from China and south-east Asia. These were sent to various laboratories hundreds of miles away for sequencing, archiving, analysis and manipulation.

WIV had collected more than 220 Sars-related coronaviruses, at least 100 of which were never made public. Members of staff were also photographed wearing inadequate levels of personal protective equipment while handing bats.

But to date, Beijing has failed to disclose much of the work that was happening and removed a database of viral sequences shortly before the pandemic erupted.

Bombshell admission

By the summer of 2021, US intelligence had also discovered that three researchers at WIV had sought treatment at a hospital after falling ill in November 2019 - weeks before China told the world about Covid.

Then in August 2021, the head of the WHOs pandemic origins investigation made the bombshell admission that he had been pressured into ruling out a laboratory leak to avoid arguments with China.

Dr Peter Embarek said it was actually a likely hypothesis that a laboratory employee could have picked up the virus while working in the field and brought it back to Wuhan.

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, director-general of the WHO, was forced to admit that a laboratory leak had been ruled out prematurely and set up a new inquiry to examine the origins of the pandemic.

More than 18 months on, that inquiry has gone nowhere, with members complaining they have been stonewalled by China. In response, Beijing claims the inquiries are politically motivated and has even suggested the pandemic may have begun in the US.

Last October, a US Senate committee concluded that the Covid-19 pandemic was more likely than not the result of a laboratory accident and told China it would need to prove otherwise. On Monday the committees full report was published giving a comprehensive breakdown of its reasoning and the arguments are persuasive.

The virus seems to have emerged far earlier than China admitted, probably between October 28 and November 10 when US diplomats commented on the unusually bad flu season in Wuhan, and satellites picked out an increase in hospital traffic.

The Deputy Consular Chief recalled: By mid-October 2019, the dedicated team at the US Consulate General in Wuhan knew that the city had been struck by what was thought to be an unusually vicious flu season. The disease worsened in November.

It is also apparent in the months before the first cases emerged that WIV were concerned about biosafety at their facilities. In April 2019, WIV published 13 patents covering a range of remedial actions for containment problems, such as making sure doors were airtight and exhaust systems were disinfected.

During this period, the WIV team continued to collect bat coronaviruses and experiment on them in Wuhan labs.

Then, in mid-September of 2019, WIV took its sample and sequence database offline and enhanced physical security of its campus. The database has never been restored.

Around this time, the committee report suggests that China began creating its own vaccines to Covid, before alerting the world to the virus.

All of the evidence remains circumstantial and China continues to dig in its heels, so without access to its database, laboratories, and records, investigations are now at an impasse.

Sir Richard Dearlove, the former head of MI6, believes that if any evidence existed, it has likely now been destroyed.

The political will to probe deeper also seems lacking outside of the GOP. If the Cabinet Office notes are to be believed, the British Government appears to view links to the Wuhan laboratory as entirely coincidental.

But with each passing day, a laboratory leak becomes more plausible. When scientists hunted for the source of the original Sars, a small team found it within six months.

It is now more than three years since the start of the pandemic and, despite an unprecedented search, no animal host for Covid-19 has ever been found. Perhaps because it never existed in the wild.

This article was originally published on March 8, 2023, and has been updated.
CNNs Anderson Cooper tore into embattled Rep. George Santos after the New York Republican announced he would run for reelection in 2024.

Sure, he doesnt have the support of his party on Capitol Hill, or the support of the party leadership back in his district whove called for his resignation, or the support of most of his constituents, who in recent polling say they want him to resign, Cooper said on Anderson Cooper 360 Monday, according to a clip captured by Mediaite.

And yes, he faces multiple federal and local investigations into his finances after he admitted to lying about everything from his college degree to where he worked and even his heritage, Cooper continued. But when you have no shame, none of that matters. Today, he announced hes going to run for reelection.

Santos polling numbers show good news and bad news, CNN senior data analyst Harry Enten said.

The good news is: I went back through history and found some politicians with comparable favorable ratings  right around 7 or 8%, Enten said. The bad news is: Those politicians were either at the time convicted criminals or later became convicted criminals.

Enten noted that Santos had similar approval ratings to those received in 2008 by then-Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich (D), who was impeached and incarcerated for eight years on federal charges of public corruption, and in 2005 by then-Ohio Gov. Bob Taft (R), who was convicted of violating state ethics laws.

Santos said in a statement Monday that he was proudly announcing his bid for another two-year term. The statement said Santos had proven to be a diligent legislator and outspoken critic of the Washington Establishment in his first 100 days in office.

Santos has spent his term battling a firestorm of controversy and bipartisan calls to resign after bombshell reports revealed he had fabricated myriad aspects of his work, education and personal background to get elected.

He faces local, federal and international investigations into his misrepresentations, as well as probes into allegations of campaign finance violations. He stepped down from his House committee assignments weeks after taking office.

Related...
Mountaineer Noel Hanna, who has died during an expedition in Nepal, "lived for the mountains", his sister has said.

It is understood Mr Hanna, from Dromara in County Down, died at a camp while making a descent from Annapurna, the 10th highest mountain in the world.

The 56-year-old had scaled Mount Everest 10 times in his career.

In 2018, Mr Hanna became the first person from the island of Ireland to successfully summit and descend K2.

Mr Hanna had scaled the 8,091m (26,545ft) peak in the Annapurna mountain range on Monday and died overnight, Irish broadcaster RTE reports.

BBC Nepali said there were local reports that his body has been airlifted to the capital, Kathmandu.

Irene Hunter told BBC News NI's Evening Extra that her brother "loved a view and he just loved people" and that he was "a legend".

Asked if the family was aware of the dangers which Mr Hanna faced, Ms Hunter said: "He didn't really say too much, he didn't want to worry us all."

She added that her brother's body would be returning to Finnis, close to the Mourne Mountains, where he began his climbing career.

There are reports that a second climber from India who had been missing after falling into a crevasse has been found alive.

Annapurna in the Himalayas is the 10th highest mountain in the world

Robbie Marsh, a guide in the Mourne Mountains, described Mr Hanna as an inspirational figure within the climbing community.

He told BBC News NI: "I was always at him to write a book, but he was such a humble man.

"He just normalised climbing 8,000 metre mountains, just like we would do Slieve Donard."

Mr Marsh said he was inspired by Mr Hanna to quit his corporate management job to set up his mountaineering business.

"Part of his legacy is that inspiration that he has given people," he said.

Robbie Marsh was inspired to set up a mountaineering business by Noel Hanna

Banjo Bannon, a climber from Newry, who was the second person from Northern Ireland to reach Mt Everest in 2003, said: "Noel had it in his head that he was going to do all 14 peaks over 8,000m. That was his goal and dream."

Alison Irwin, a representative from the Nepal Ireland Society, said Mr Hanna did a lot of work in promoting connections between the two countries.

Story continues

"He had a huge love of Nepal, through his mountains, and was very, very interested in all things Nepal," she said.

'Modest in his achievements'

Ms Irwin described feeling delighted for Mr Hanna when she heard he had reached the peak of Annapurna this week.

She added: "The first thought that came into my head when I saw the summit news was, 'well, I hope he gets down safe'. And I woke up this morning to that bad news."

The society has extended condolences to Mr Hanna's family.

Ms Irwin said Mr Hanna's proudest achievement was reaching the summit of Burke-Khang (6942m; 22775ft), which she said some sherpas described as "unclimbable".

"He was very modest in his achievements," she added.

Mourne Mountain Adventures, a guided hiking company based in Kilkeel, has paid tribute to Mr Hanna.

In a social media post, the company said: "There is some peace in that he spent his last moments doing what he loved best, such a great man and one of N Ireland's finest mountaineers."

Dan McFarland, the head coach at Ulster Rugby, tweeted: "Very sad to hear of Noel's passing. Noel was a great inspiration to this team.

"All our thoughts are with Lynne and Noel's family."

Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs said it is aware of the case and is providing consular assistance, but would not comment further.
WOBURN  A Marlborough man has been charged with assaulting an elderly dementia patient he helped care for while working as a nurse in 2021, authorities said.

Tonny Kiyaga, 47, pleaded not guilty Thursday at his Middlesex Superior Court arraignment to charges of assault and battery on an elderly or disabled person; witness intimidation; and threatening to commit a crime.

According to the state Attorney General's Office, Kiyaga was a licensed practical nurse at a Park Avenue Health Center in Arlington, which is a rehabilitation and skilled nursing facility. Park Avenue Health fully cooperated with the investigation, the AG's Office said.

National Nurses Week: Mass. union wants legislative action, not more 'pizza or flowers'

According to the AG's Office, the assault occurred on Aug. 29, 2021. Kiyaga is alleged to have assaulted an elderly dementia patient. When the patient cried out, another employee saw Kiyaga shove the patient and threaten the man.

Park Avenue Health fired Kiyaga after an internal investigation and his nursing license was suspended by the state. The case was then referred to the AG's Office, which filed the charges after its own investigation.

During the arraignment, Assistant Clerk Magistrate Daniel Flaherty ordered Kiyaga to stay away from and have no contact with the victim and his family; to stay away from and have no contact with witnesses; and to not provide services in a health care center while unsupervised.

Neither Kiyaga nor a representative for Park Avenue Health Center could be reached for comment on Friday.

Norman Miller can be reached at 508-626-3823 or nmiller@wickedlocal.com. For up-to-date public safety news, follow him on Twitter @Norman_MillerMW or on Facebook at facebook.com/NormanMillerCrime.

This article originally appeared on MetroWest Daily News: Nurse from Marlborough charged with assaulting elderly patient
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 18)  The mega-trade pact among 15 economies in the Asia Pacific region will take effect in the Philippines by June 2, a Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) official said Tuesday.

During the first briefing of the Senate Special Oversight Committee on the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), DFA Director Anthony Aguirre said its effectivity would start 60 days after the government has deposited the instrument of ratification, which was done last April 3.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. previously said the ratification of the RCEP in February echoed the Philippines commitment to openness and a thriving business environment.

The RCEP is considered the worlds largest trade deal, which covers 10 members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), along with Australia, China, Japan, New Zealand, and South Korea.

It is designed to eliminate tariff rates  or the taxes imposed on imported products  on 90% of goods between the signatories within 20 years.

READ: EXPLAINER: What is RCEP? Will PH benefit from it?

During the briefing, Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda asked the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) about the domestic preparedness steps undertaken since the ratification of the RCEP.

The DTI said the government needs to issue necessary legal documents, particularly the executive order implementing the RCEP agreement from the Office of the President.

A trade education would also be rolled out, working closely with local governments and supplementing the knowledge of businesses regarding the RCEP.

Before the RCEP takes effect, the DTI is also targeting to launch an import monitoring system that would detect a surge in imported products. It hopes to make the system operational by the fourth week of May.

Meanwhile, DA Usec. Mercedita Agcaoili Sombilla said the department has already identified projects and activities to ensure improvement in the sectors productivity and make them competitive in the market.

A number of agricultural groups had expressed their opposition to the Philippines joining the RCEP, as they warned of a possible rise in cheaper products that could affect farmers earnings.
NEW YORK (AP)  A parking garage collapsed Tuesday in lower Manhattans Financial District, killing one worker, injuring five and crushing cars as concrete floors fell on top of each other like a stack of pancakes, officials said.

Vehicles tumbled into what looked like a frozen stream of sedans and SUVs. People nearby described a fearsome rumbling, followed by screams.

Ahmed Scott arrived to collect his car after work and found a disaster in the making.

In a video he shot from across the street, someone off-camera yells, Guard! 911! 911! There's a building collapsing on Ann Street," followed by the sound of something crumpling. About 45 seconds later, two women run out, saying the building fell while they were inside it. A man stands on a fire escape as bystanders try to figure out how to help him get down. He eventually did, Scott said.

I hope ain't nobody else in there, Scott recalled thinking, worrying for the garage workers he'd gotten to know.

To Jadess Speller, a student at nearby Pace University, the collapse felt like an earthquake -- like the earth opened up inside, like thats how violent it was." Other students described seeing cars falling in the building.

One vehicle landed on its end in the garage entrance, a photo posted by Mayor Eric Adams' office showed.

Authorities believed they had accounted for everyone inside the building, but searches continued Tuesday evening to make sure no one was in any of the squashed cars, Fire Department Chief of Operations John Esposito said. One garage employee was rescued via a neighboring roof after being trapped on an upper floor, he said.

He was conscious and alert and moving around, calling us. He just couldnt get down, Esposito said. Four of the injured were hospitalized and in stable condition, and the fifth refused medical attention, he said.

The garage caved in around 4 p.m., a few blocks from City Hall and the Brooklyn Bridge, and about half a mile (0.8 km) from the New York Stock Exchange. Pace evacuated an adjacent dorm and classroom building, and canceled all evening classes as it assessed the buildings' safety. School officials sent the displaced students to a student center while working out other accommodations.

Story continues

Don Mulligan was on the 17th floor of a nearby hotel when he heard a roar like a jet flying overhead and felt the high-rise sway.

You knew something was happening, said Mulligan, of Cincinnati. The hotel was evacuated, he said.

It wasn't immediately clear what caused the collapse. City Buildings Department records show the three-story structure has been a garage at least since the 1920s, and there are no recent permits for construction.

Messages were left for a parking company that lists the garage as one of its properties.

The collapse left the building completely unstable, Adams said at a news conference. Esposito said firefighters had to pull out because of the danger, conducting searches instead with a drone and robotic dog.

The building was all the way pancaked, collapsed all the way to the cellar floor, acting Buildings Commissioner Kazimir Vilenchik said.

William Flashnick, 19, was in a Pace classroom when he and his friends thought they heard an explosion and ran to a window to look. As they opened the window, a plume of thick dust rose in the air.

When it cleared, they peered down into the parking structure, where cars were tossed asunder and a top deck had cracked open.

Flashnick initially worried for all of their lives. One of his first thoughts was of the World Trade Center, which looms over the neighborhood.

We freaked out. Given the history of this place, its a little scary," he said.

___

Associated Press writers Michael R. Sisak and Deepti Hajela contributed.
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) criticized the red carpet that was rolled out for former President Trump as he faced criminal charges in Manhattan earlier this month, saying people get treated far worse for doing far less.

I have to go in every single day, watching people get treated far worse for doing far less, Ocasio-Cortez said in an interview with The Daily Show that aired Monday, speaking about how Rikers Island is in her district. And then its like this red carpet that gets rolled out.

Trumps arraignment in Manhattan earlier this month was covered by a swarm of media, with crowds of law enforcement protection and gathered demonstrators.

Trump, who was charged with 34 felony counts related to the falsification of business records, was not required to take a mugshot or wear handcuffs. He also entered the courthouse through a side entrance.

The New York congresswoman praised people in the city for how they greeted the former president, saying they treated him like a Florida man.

I think they treated him like a Florida man, Ocasio-Cortez joked. He dont belong to us no more. Hes not from Queens anymore.

Hes a citizen of Mar-a-Lago at this point, she quipped.

Trump claimed in the aftermath of his indictment that people in the courthouse were crying as he went through the arrest and arraignment process.

When I went to the courthouse, which is also a prison in a sense, they signed me in and Ill tell you people were crying, Trump said in an interview with news host Tucker Carlson earlier this month.

But Ocasio-Cortez said that while maybe some like Reps. George Santos (R-N.Y.) and Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) were crying, she was not.

Not me, Ocasio-Cortez said. Kick it back to LaGuardia, baby.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
An Ohio grand jury declined to indict eight police officers involved in the shooting death last summer of Jayland Walker, who died in a hail of police gunfire after he shot a gun at officers from his vehicle, Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost announced Monday.

Officers tried to stop Walker for a traffic violation in Akron shortly after midnight on June 27 of last year, but he refused to pull over and fired a handgun out his window about 40 seconds into the vehicle chase.

Walker eventually bailed out of the car and ran into a parking lot while wearing a ski mask, body camera footage shows. He reached into his waistband and then raised his hand during the foot chase, leading officers to believe that he was pulling out a gun, Yost said.

Eight officers fired more than 90 shots at Walker, striking him dozens of times, according to an autopsy. Body camera footage of the shooting that was released days after the incident sparked protests in Akron for Walker, who was a 25-year-old Black man.

"The sheer number of shots is one of the things that make the video so hard to watch. Multiple officers each making an independent judgment about a threat and acting independently to neutralize that threat, creates a dynamic that amplifies the use of force exponentially," Yost said Monday. "That being said, it is critical to remember that Mr. Walker had fired on the police and that he shot first."

ONE DEAD, 1 HURT AFTER SHOOTOUT WITH POLICE ON VIRGINIA INTERSTATE

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

A handgun and loaded magazine were recovered from his vehicle after the shooting. Dashcam footage from a Cuyahoga Falls officer also showed Walker firing his handgun during the vehicle chase, according to prosecutors.

Akron Mayor Dan Horrigan urged residents to protest peacefully and told "outsiders with ill intentions" to stay out of the city following the grand jury's decision.

The University of Akron canceled all on-campus events on Monday and moved in-person classes to remote instruction, while all Akron public schools will be closed on Tuesday.

Story continues

EX-FORT WORTH OFFICER INDICTED FOR MURDER OF ATATIANA JEFFERSON

Akron Police Chief Steve Mylett said that the officers will remain on administrative duties for the foreseeable future as the department conducts an internal review.

"As advised by the law department, we will not be releasing the involved officers' names, as the threats made against them are still believed to be active viable and credible," Mylett said at a press conference.

President Biden said during a visit to Ohio in July that the Justice Department's civil rights division was monitoring the case.

CLICK TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

The Congressional Black Caucus said in a statement Monday the grand jury failed to "bring the eight officers involved in his tragic and unjust murder to justice."

"Despite the decision today, one thing remains true: Jayland Walker should be alive today," the caucus said in a statement.

"The excessive use of force shown and the disregard for Jaylands life by Akron police has no place in any community in our country, and this decision deeply erodes public trust between police and the communities they serve."
The governor of Oklahoma has called for the resignations of the sheriff and other top officials in a rural county after they were recorded talking about "beating, killing and burying" a father/son team of local reporters  and lamenting that they could no longer hang Black people with a damned rope.

Gov. Kevin Stitt called for McCurtain County Sheriff Kevin Clardy, county Commissioner Mark Jennings, sheriff's investigator Alicia Manning, and Jail Administrator Larry Hendrix to step down after the McCurtain County Gazette-News published an article over the weekend about what was captured on the recording.

I am both appalled and disheartened to hear of the horrid comments made by officials in McCurtain County, Stitt said in a statement released Sunday. There is simply no place for such hateful rhetoric in the state of Oklahoma, especially by those that serve to represent the community through their respective office.

Stitt, a Republican, said he has ordered the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation to initiate an investigation to determine whether any illegal conduct has occurred.

Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt speaks during a roundtable at White House on June 18, 2020. (Alex Wong / Getty Images)

Bruce Willingham, who works for his family-owned newspaper, has turned the full audio over to the FBI and the Oklahoma Attorney Generals office, his lawyers said.

Meanwhile, dozens of county residents angered by the officials' comments picketed Monday outside the headquarters of the McCurtain County Commissioners in the town of Idabel, which is about 200 miles southeast of Oklahoma City, NBC affiliate KFOR of Oklahoma City reported.

None of the four officials named by Stitt could be reached for comment, but late Monday the McCurtain County Sheriff's Office said in a statement that the recording was "illegally obtained," appears to have been altered, and may have been produced in violation of state law prohibiting secret recordings by third parties.

Image: (Christopher Bryan / Southwest Ledger via AP)

The office, which said it has received threats of violence and death over the saga, said it was investigating how the recording was obtained and whether it violated the secret recording law.

Story continues

Investigative findings, the sheriff's office said, will be "forwarded to the appropriate authorities for felony charges to be filed on those involved."

The Willinghams also did not respond to inquiries from NBC News. But Kilpatrick Townsend, the law firm representing the Willingham family, said they appreciated the expressions of support.

"For nearly a year, they have suffered intimidation, ridicule and harassment based solely on their efforts to report the news for McCurtain County," the statement said.

The latest furor erupted after Willingham, acting on a tip that the commissioners were illegally engaging in county business after the public meetings were over, left a recording device on March 6 in the commissioners' chamber, the newspaper reported.

Earlier that day, Willingham's son, Christopher Lee Willingham, who is also a reporter at the newspaper, had filed a lawsuit against Clardy, Manning and the commissioners in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma seeking unspecified damages. He claimed they were punishing him for his hard-hitting reporting by spreading "slander" about him.

When Willingham retrieved the device, he discovered that the conversation began with a grisly conversation about a fire victim being compared to "barbecue" before the group turned to talking about his son.

"My papaw would have whipped his ass, would have wiped him and used him for toilet paper," Manning said of the younger Willingham, according to the newspaper. "If my daddy hadn't been run over by a vehicle, he would have been down there."

Jennings then piped in, saying "I know where two big, deep holes are here if you ever need them."

"I've got an excavator," Clardy chimed in, according to the newspaper.

Jennings, according to the newspaper, then said he knew "two or three hit men" who belong to the Louisiana mafia.

"They're very quiet guys and would cut no f---ing mercy," he reportedly said.

Manning, according to the newspaper, discussed "who would get the blame if anything was done" to Christopher Lee Willingham's wife, Angie.

There was also "caustic" criticism of local District Attorney Mark Matloff, the newspaper reported in the first batch of recordings it released.

Matloff is not commenting on the report, a member of his staff said at the McCurtain County Courthouse.

"Some of the discussion included not only harsh criticism of judges, but also the possibility of assaults on judges here," the newspaper reported.

When the talk turned to who might run for sheriff against Clardy, Jenning recalled how a former sheriff "would take a damned Black guy and whoop their ass and throw them in the cell."

"Yeah," Clardy replied, according to the newspaper. "It's not like that no more."

"I know," said Jennings. "Take them down to Mud Creek and hang them up with a damned rope. But you can't do that anymore. They've got more rights than we've got."

Two more batches of recordings made by Willingham are to be released soon, his lawyers said.

The Willingham family has lived in the county for 120 years and has operated The McCurtain County Gazette-News for 40 years. Founded in 1905, it is a print-only publication, a rarity in the rapidly diminishing world of newspapers. And this is not the first time it has made national news.

In the wake of the 1995 bombing of the federal building in Oklahoma City, Willingham hired a freelancer named J.D. Cash who produced a number of scoops about the investigation into the deadly terror attack and who was later derided as a "conspiracy theorist" by some of the newspaper's competitors. Cash died in 2007.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Kevin Stitt. Alex Wong/Getty Images

Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt (R) said he is "appalled and disheartened" by "horrid" and "hateful" comments made by the sheriff and three other officials in McCurtain County, and called on them all to resign.

Over the weekend, the McCurtain Gazette-News published an article about remarks made on March 6 by McCurtain County Sheriff Kevin Clardy, County Commissioner Mark Jennings, sheriff's investigator Alicia Manning, and Jail Administrator Larry Hendrix. They were recorded discussing killing McCurtain Gazette-News reporters and hanging Black people, with one individual heard saying, "Take them down to Mud Creek and hang them up with damned rope. But you can't do that anymore. They've got more rights than we got."

Bruce Willingham, whose family owns the McCurtain Gazette-News, received a tip that McCurtain County commissioners were illegally conducting county business after public meetings were over, NBC News reports, and he left a recording device in the commissioners' chamber to see if this was true. Willingham's son, Christopher Lee Willingham, is also a reporter at the newspaper, and earlier March 6 he had filed a lawsuit against Clardy, Manning, and the county commissioners, accusing them of slander and punishing him for his reporting.

The McCurtain Gazette-News, which published some of the audio recorded by Bruce Willingham's device, reports that when talk turned to killing reporters, Commissioner Jennings told the other officials, "I know where two big, deep holes are here if you ever need them" before claiming he knows "two or three hit men" in the Louisiana mafia. The newspaper also says there was "caustic" criticism of local District Attorney Mark Matloff and "some of the discussion included not only harsh criticism of judges, but also the possibility of assaults on judges here."

Story continues

In a statement, Stitt said there is "simply no place for such hateful rhetoric in the state of Oklahoma, especially by those that serve to represent the community through their respective office." The governor also said he has ordered the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation to "initiate an investigation to determine whether any illegal conduct has occurred." About 100 demonstrators gathered outside the McCurtain County Commissioner's Office on Monday, demanding the officials resign.

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Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt is calling for the resignations of four county officials after the McCurtain Gazette-News obtained an audio recording of them making racist comments and discussing their strategy for having journalists killed and buried.

The officials, who were reportedly recorded during a March 6 county commission meeting, are McCurtain County Sheriff Kevin Clardy, Sheriffs Capt. Alicia Manning, District 2 Commissioner Mark Jennings, and Jail Administrator Larry Hendrix.

I am both appalled and disheartened to hear of the horrid comments made by officials in McCurtain County, Stitt said in a statement, the Associated Press reported Monday. There is simply no place for such hateful rhetoric in the state of Oklahoma, especially by those that serve to represent the community through their respective office.

In one clip, Jennings seems to complain that lynchings of Black people are outlawed. Take them down to Mud Creek and hang them up with a damn rope, he said. But you cant do that anymore. They got more rights than we got.

On secretly recorded audio first reported by the McCurtain Gazette-News, GOP McCurtain County, Okla. officials  including the sheriff  talk about hiring hitmen to assassinate local journalists and complain that Black people now have the right to not be lynched. pic.twitter.com/N8XKNwpgqW  Heartland Signal (@HeartlandSignal) April 17, 2023

In another, the group discusses Bruce Willingham, publisher of the print-only McCurtain Gazette-News, as well as his son, Chris, who is a reporter there.

I know where two deep holes are dug if you ever need them, he said, to which Clardy responded: Ive got an excavator.

Well, Jennings replied, these are already pre-dug.

As if that wasnt enough, Jennings seemed to brag that hes known two or three hitmen in Louisiana who are very quiet guys and would cut no fucking mercy.

Story continues

The elder Willingham said he obtained the clips with a voice-activated recorder that he left inside the meeting room on a hunch that the commission was breaking the law by conducting official business after the meetings conclusion. Willingham gave the clips to the FBI and the states Attorney Generals Office, he added.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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An Oklahoma sheriffs office says a newspaper's audio recording in which the sheriff and other county officials are reportedly heard discussing killing two journalists and hanging Black people was illegal and predicted felony charges will be filed.

A post on the sheriff's office Facebook page  the agency's first public comment since the comments by Sheriff Kevin Clardy and others were reported by the McCurtain Gazette-News  does not address the recorded discussion, but calls the situation complex and one we regret having to address.

The threatening comments by the officials that were recorded have sparked outrage and protests. Oklahoma's GOP Gov. Kevin Stitt and state Rep. Eddy Dempsey, a Republican who represents the area, have called for Clardy and others to resign. NAACP leaders in Oklahoma also called for the FBI and the Department of Justice to investigate.

The sheriff's statement calls the past 72 hours amongst the most difficult and disruptive in recent memory and says the recording was altered and involves many victims.

There is and has been an ongoing investigation into multiple, significant violation(s) of the Oklahoma Security of Communications Act ... which states that it is illegal to secretly record a conversation in which you are not involved and do not have the consent of at least one of the involved parties, according to the statement.

Joey Senat, a journalism professor at Oklahoma State University, said under Oklahoma law, the recording would be legal if it were obtained in a place where the officials being recorded did not have a reasonable expectation of privacy.

Bruce Willingham, the longtime publisher of the McCurtain Gazette-News, said the recording was made March 6 when he left a voice-activated recorder inside the room after a county commissioners meeting because he suspected the group was continuing to conduct county business after the meeting had ended in violation of the states Open Meeting Act.

Story continues

Willingham said he twice spoke with his attorneys to be sure he was doing nothing illegal.

The newspaper released portions of the recording in which Clardy, sheriff's Capt. Alicia Manning and District 2 County Commissioner Mark Jennings appear to discuss Bruce and Chris Willingham, a reporter for the newspaper who is Bruce Willingham's son. Jennings tells Clardy and Manning I know where two deep holes are dug if you ever need them, and the sheriff responded, Ive got an excavator.

Jennings also reportedly says hes known two or three hit men in Louisiana, adding theyre very quiet guys.

In the recording, Jennings also appears to complain about not being able to hang Black people, saying: They got more rights than we got.

Jail Administrator Larry Hendrix was also present during the conversation.

The Associated Press could not immediately verify the authenticity of the recording. None of the four have returned telephone calls or emails from The Associated Press.

Glenn Cook, the executive editor of the Las Vegas Review-Journal, where reporter Jeff German was stabbed to death in September allegedly by an elected official the reporter was investigating, said he was chilled to the bone after learning about the Oklahoma case.

What's almost as troubling as the contents of the recording is the complete absence of shame, Cook said of the sheriff's office's response to the incident. Sadly, the willingness of government to protect itself at all costs really never surprises me, but in this particular case the kind of digging in that we're seeing reflects incredibly poorly on the people of Oklahoma.

A spokesperson for the FBIs office in Oklahoma City declined to comment on the case. Phil Bacharach, a spokesperson for Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond, said the agency had received an audio recording and is investigating the incident, but declined to comment further.

Bruce Willingham said he believes the local officials were upset about stories weve run that cast the sheriffs office in an unfavorable light, including the death of Bobby Barrick, a Broken Bow, Oklahoma, man who died at a hospital in March 2022 after McCurtain County deputies shot him with a stun gun. The newspaper has filed a lawsuit against the sheriffs office seeking body camera footage and other records connected to Barricks death.

Separately, Chris Willingham has filed a federal lawsuit against the sheriff's office, Clardy, Manning and the Board of County Commissioners alleging Manning slandered him after he wrote an eight-part series of articles detailing problems inside the sheriff's office. The lawsuit claims after the first few articles were published, Clardy and Manning began investigating which office employees were speaking to the newspaper and were attempting to get a search warrant for Willingham's phone.

The lawsuit, which was filed on the same day the recording was made, alleges that after the series was published, Manning told a third party during a teleconference that Chris Willingham exchanged marijuana for pornographic images of children from a man who had been arrested on child pornography charges.

Manning made these (and other) false statements about Willingham in retaliation for articles he wrote about the (sheriff's office) as a reporter for the McCurtain Gazette and to destroy his credibility as a reporter and journalist, the lawsuit states.

More than 100 people gathered outside the McCurtain County Courthouse in Idabel on Monday, with many of them calling for the sheriff and other county officials to resign.

On Tuesday, the Oklahoma Sheriff's Association, a voluntary membership organization and not a regulatory agency, held an emergency meeting of its board. It voted unanimously to suspend Clardy, Manning and Hendrix from the association.

The sheriff's office statement said there have been a large number of threats of violence including death threats against unspecified county employees, officials, their families and friends since the conversation was first reported.

The statement said the sheriff's office will issue news releases until its investigation concludes and findings are forwarded to the appropriate authorities for felony charges to be filed on those involved.

The incident in Oklahoma follows the February killing of a television news reporter who was shot and killed and a cameraman wounded in Florida while filming a story about a homicide that happened earlier that day.
A former Oklahoma substitute teacher, and wife of the Wellston police chief, faces charges after allegedly having a relationship with a 15-year-old student at the school where was employed, according to reports.

FOX 25 Oklahoma City reported that Emma Delaney Hancock, 26, was arrested and charged with lewd or indecent proposals or acts to a child under 16, soliciting sexual conduct or communication with a minor with technology, and obscene or indecent writings and pictures.

According to a probable cause affidavit obtained by FOX 25, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation was alerted to an investigation into Hancock in November 2022, after the Lincoln County Sheriffs Office sought assistance.

OKLAHOMA GOV. STITT DEMANDS OFFICIALS RESIGN AFTER REMARKS ABOUT KILLING JOURNALISTS LEAK

CBS affiliate KWTV in Oklahoma City reported that Lincoln County Sheriff Charlie Dougherty said Hancock's husband, Alfred, is the Wellston police chief, which is why the OSBI was asked to take the case.

The county sheriffs office was looking into allegations that Hancock sent nude photos to the Wellston Public Schools student.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

Empty classroom in an elementary school.

The affidavit claimed officials interviewed the student, who said his interaction with Hancock began Oct. 6, when he put his phone number into her phone to get a class assignment.

63-YEAR-OLD OKLAHOMA MAN ARRESTED FOR POSSESSING 2,000 CHILD PORNOGRAPHY FILES

That same night, the student alleged, Hancock reached out to him on Snapchat with a friend request.

The Snapchat conversations between Hancock and the student escalated over the course of a few weeks, the student told investigators, moving from conversational to nude pictures and videos.

The affidavit notes two instances where the student visited Hancocks classroom, where she would allegedly kiss and touch the 15-year-old on lunch breaks as they hid in closets and pantries.

The roof of a police patrol car at night, with the blue and red lights flashing.

The student also alleged that Hancock would let him vape from her vape pen, FOX 25 reported.

Story continues

POLICE CAPTAIN ALLEGEDLY SENT PENIS PHOTOS, OFFERED FEMALE DETECTIVE FAVORS FOR PANTIES: LAWSUIT

According to the affidavit, the student told a friend about the situation with the substituted teacher, and the other student asked her about it.

The affidavit shows Hancock denied having a relationship with the 15-year-old before changing her story and saying they were not going to get caught, so it would not amount to anything.

Authorities executed a search warrant into the teachers Snapchat account and allegedly found videos related to the accusations.

Hancock surrendered to the Lincoln County Sheriffs Office last Thursday and posted bond.

KWTV reported that several Wellson residents said Hancock's father is Wellston's mayor.

Wellston Public Schools Superintendent Mike Franz told FOX 25 that the district became aware of the allegations in November and immediately removed Hancock from the substitute call list.

The district also notified law enforcement officials and is cooperation throughout the states investigation, according to the statement.
Five years ago, Andrew Gillum almost became governor of Florida. The former Tallahassee mayor lost to Gov. Ron DeSantis by fewer than 34,000 votes.

The then-rising politician is now in a federal courtroom fighting criminal charges.

The trial of Gillum, 43, and his political adviser and mentor, Sharon Janet Lettman-Hicks, 54, started Tuesday in Tallahassee. Its expected to last three weeks.

READ MORE: Andrew Gillum was almost elected Florida governor. Now hes on trial in federal court

Heres what to know ahead of the case as the trial begins.

What is Gillum accused of?

In 2022, Gillum was indicted by a federal grand jury after being accused of lying to FBI agents and defrauding campaign mega donors and organizations that believed they were donating to legitimate political causes.

Hes accused of asking for political contributions under false pretenses and routing the money through Lettman-Hicks communications company, which then distributed the money back to Gillum. Nearly $57,000 in campaign and other contributions were illegally steered into Gillums personal account, according to the indictment.

Aside from the 17 counts of wire fraud, Gillum is also accused of lying to FBI agents, a charge that stems from the agencys public corruption investigation in Tallahassee.

Undercover agents posed as developers, court records say, and paid for parts of a 2016 trip Gillum and his brother took to New York City. In 2017, Gillum sat down with FBI agents and denied receiving gifts from developers.

How has he responded?

Gillum has denied the allegations against him, though the FBIs corruption investigation has already led to several convictions. He also denied knowing anything about how Lettman-Hicks managed the campaign accounts.

The former Democratic nominee for governor pleaded not guilty and said the investigation was



political.

Theres been a target on my back ever since I was the mayor of Tallahassee, Gillum said after being indicted. They found nothing then, and I have full confidence that my legal team will prove my innocence now.

Story continues

Whats next?

If convicted, Gillum and Lettman-Hicks face decades in federal prison.

They can be sentenced to up to 20 years for each count of wire fraud  or conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Gillum could face up to five years in prison for the charge related to making false statements to the FBI.

Lawrence Mower of the Miami Herald/Tampa Bay Times Tallahassee Bureau contributed to this report
An expansive ranch tucked away in the scenic greenery of Montana has landed on the real estate market.

The Five Ranges ranch has listed for $25 million and while its perfectly secluded, its mere miles from population if you want the best of both worlds.

A short drive from multiple international airports and nestled between numerous mountain ranges in Southwestern Montana, this 4,880+ acre ranch cascades from mountain tops to valley floors, offering world-class elk hunting, game bird, and fly fishing habitat, the listing on the ranchs website describes. The ultimate property for trophy hunters, this ranch offers prospective buyers an authentic, high-end Montana ranch experience while supporting a herd of over 300 elk.

And there are plenty of high-end structures on the land where folks can relax after a day of living off the land.

The once in a generation property, according to the site, includes:

8,510-square-foot main lodge

Cabins

Two private apartments

Oversized garage

Gym

Multiple outdoor living areas

The lodge appears to be something out of a storybook with its rustic outside that stands out against a white Montana winter.

Designed as a place to entertain first and foremost, the Five Ranges lodge features two levels of living space and a third level Sky Lounge with towering views of the Pintler Mountains, the listing says. American Clay walls and ceilings, hand-forged iron work, custom made light fixtures, leather, slate, marble and hardwood flooring, copper sinks, reclaimed white timber oak flooring and several fire features are only a small illustration of what this ranch has to offer.

The ranch is southeast of Missoula.

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Metro Manila (CNN Philippines Life, April 17)  This week, catch a gig prods anniversary show and a free ballet performance, celebrate International Book Day, and shop for new art pieces and scents.

Celebrate International Book Day at Instituto Cervantes de Manilas Intramuros branch. Photo from INSTITUTO CERVANTES DE MANILA/FACEBOOK

Celebrate Dia del Libro at Instituto Cervantes de Manila

This April 22, celebrate International Book Day at Instituto Cervantes de Manilas Intramuros branch. Opening at 10 a.m., the event program includes a concert, free Spanish lessons, talks from publishers and authors, book signing events, and more. There will also be a book market open the whole day, with discounted books from local bookstores and publishers. For the full schedule and updates on the event, visit their Facebook page.  CNN PHILIPPINES LIFE STAFF

Catch the Paniki Anniversary show at Mows

Started last year, the Paniki Collective has been an interesting gig prod group to follow, with lineups that range from Zild and Blaster and the Celestial Klownz to Walktrip and Space Moses. This April 23, theyre holding an anniversary and benefit show at Mows in partnership with cultural mass organizations SINAGBAYAN (Sining na Naglilingkod sa Bayan) and Tambisan sa Sining. The lineup includes Ang Bandang Shirley, Zild, ToneeJay, Salem And The Stellar Cats, Cherry Society, Butterfly Den, and Nakasabit sa Puno ay Ako. Get your tickets at tinyurl.com/PANIKIANNIV-PRESALE-TIX. For updates, visit their Instagram page.  GABY GLORIA

Shop for local art at BGC Art Mart

BGCs regular art mart is back this weekend. Spend a summer day browsing through unique artworks from local artists, sample food from the available stalls, and catch some live performances throughout the art-filled weekend. The BGC Art Mart will be at the Alveo Central Plaza from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. from April 21 to 23. For updates, visit the event page.  CNN PHILIPPINES LIFE STAFF

Members of the American Ballet Theatre (ABT) Studio Company. Photo courtesy of AYALA FOUNDATION

Cebu and Davao residents, enjoy the ballet for free this weekend at Ayala Malls

Enjoying cultural shows at little to no cost is a rare treat in the Philippines, especially in the field of ballet. But there are thankfully moments in which these spectacles are available for the wider public to enjoy. After their last visit in 2019, the American Ballet Theatre (ABT) Studio Company comes back to the Philippines this week with their new roster of stars, as well as a special performance by the countrys acclaimed pianist, Cecile Licad. This will be Licads first performance since the pandemic. The ABT will be performing for free this April 22 at Ayala Center Cebu, and April 23 at Ayala Malls Abreeza in Davao. The benefit performance is for the Ayala Foundations CENTEX program, which provides education for underserved students while providing opportunities to thrive in arts, dance, and music. If youre ever in Cebu or Davao for the free performances, we suggest bringing a younger sibling or family member whose love for dance may be piqued by such a show. As the Ayala Foundation asserts through its CENTEX program, who knows what budding talent lies in each of us?  MARGA BUENAVENTURA

For more information, visit the Ayala Foundation website.

Gloam (9,300/50mL) is the newest scent by Aesop. Photo by MARGA BUENAVENTURA

Try this new eau de parfum by Aesop, perfect for cool summer nights

Spicy scents are tricky things in warm weather, because for some noses, it does make one smell like a savory dish. Its certainly not for everybody, but I like to believe they have a place in anyones perfume collection. Gloam (9,300/50mL), the newest scent by Aesop is another spice-forward offering, and the latest installment of their Othertopias collection by longtime collaborator Barnabe Fillion. Pink pepper and cardamom open up the scent, with neroli and orange flower complementing it with floral notes. At the depths of Gloam is a woodsy and earthiness that Ive come to love across many Aesop scents, a subtle nod to how scents are a natural dialogue between us and essences found in the natural world. And while Gloam is admittedly not for everyone, I find that experimenting with wearing it at different times of the day can yield to varying results. The spicy and floral notes are strong in the daytime, but when worn at night, Gloam settles as a soft, almost powdery scent on me. Its the kind thatll make you sink into nice, cozy sheets. The scent still lingered in my night clothes the day after, and it was such a surprising pleasure that I turned it into a new step in my evening rituals.  MB

Gloam is available in their official online store and in their Aesop shops at Greenbelt 5 and Powerplant Mall.
The Fort Worth Zoo, over the past eight weeks, has released 718,553 endangered Houston toad tadpoles and eggs into their native range on a Bastrop County site.

Since 2010, the Fort Worth Zoo has been working on Houston toad recovery in collaboration with Texas State University and the Houston Zoo. This years toads have produced more eggs and tadpoles in a single year than the previous years combined, since the program began. From 2010 to 2022, the total tadpoles and eggs were 665,813.

One of the first amphibians to be listed under the Endangered Species Act in 1970, there are now fewer than 400 Houston toads left in the wild. Declines in the toads populations suggest that the balance of its ecosystem is off. And the decline of one species signals declines in other species may follow.

The Houston toad is a habitat specialist, requiring very specific environmental conditions to live and breed. It needs thick, deep sandy soil, canopy cover, native grasses and water sources. Much of the forested long-leaf pine areas where the toad lives have been converted to agricultural and commercial use, reducing the toads habitat.

The Fort Worth Zoo is one of four facilities that breeds the species. A second Houston toad breeding facility was built this year that allowed the zoo to double its capacity for this species. The zoo also employs a reproductive physiologist who determines when the females are ready to breed to maximize egg production.

Every week over the last two months, the zoos Houston toad team has made breeding matches based on the physiologists findings, counted every egg, bagged the egg strands and taken them down to the release site. About 10 tadpoles remain at the zoo from each toad pairing to keep a healthy variety of genetics for future toad breeding.
This is the second in a series of essays from a Knowledge Matters Campaign tour of school districts using high-quality science curriculum. In this piece, Ann Hodson, director of elementary schools for Lafourche Parish School District in Louisiana, celebrates how their investment in Amplify Science and the resolve of the bayou people helped their district emerge triumphant from back-to-back disasters. Follow the rest of the series and previous curriculum case studies here.

I was two months into my dream job as Lafourche Parishs director of elementary schools, ready to help lead our district back from COVID, when the second-most destructive hurricane in American history made landfall in south Louisiana. In one short week of 2021, Category 4 Hurricane Ida damaged nearly every one of our school buildings and wreaked havoc on the lives of our families. Our hopes for normalcy  that the pandemic was finally behind us  screeched to a halt.

Some of our schools were left completely unusable. How were we going to provide for the needs of our 12,000 students? Our superintendent insisted students needed to be brought back on campus sooner than later. By nothing short of a miracle, all students were back to school in eight weeks.

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One year later, the Louisiana Department of Education selected Lafourche Parish Schools for the honor of a Models of Excellence Award for the districts commitment to high quality science instruction and maintaining student growth on the state assessments, despite disruptions from the pandemic and Hurricane Ida. A large celebration, Making the Impossible Possible, was held at the local high school. State Superintendent of Education Cade Brumley presented our district with a banner marking our comeback. Finally, something to truly celebrate! It was a testament to the resolve of the bayou people. None of this could have been possible, however, had our district not gone through the extensive process four years ago of adopting Amplify Science, which blends hands-on investigations, literacy-rich activities and interactive digital tools.

Story continues

I was in my former role as a school principal when we implemented the high-quality curriculum. In that position, I experienced first-hand the dramatic change in students being far more engaged and excited about the opportunities they were given with Amplify Science. No more sit-and-get. Science was now about hands-on learning, experiments and problems to solve relevant to their lives.

When I met with parents, they talked about the topics in Amplify Science. There was a special excitement about the floating train, part of a third grade unit on balancing forces. I couldnt help thinking to myself, Wow, our students are so turned on, theyre teaching their parents. Were developing future scientists here. We were engaging girls in science! Students, teachers and parents are all talking about science.

The implementation of Amplify was a pretty seamless one. Unlike with other newly adopted curriculums, we didnt get much or any pushback. Louisiana had adopted new science standards in 2017 and our teachers were looking for support. Amplify Science addressed the standards and our teachers felt it really gave them confidence with the new content. They loved that everything was all right there for them and embraced learning this new phenomenon-based approach. Any hesitation the teachers had about whether or not the kids could do it was overwhelmed by the kids excitement.

A student in third-grade teacher Tika Mathernes classroom works on a computer. (Photo courtesy of Knowledge Matters Campaign)

The Knowledge Matters team toured Lockport Upper Elementary when they visited this spring. As I accompanied our visitors into classrooms, I had a chance to see the instruction with fresh eyes, and I was excited by what I saw. Topics were rich. Third graders were reading to find evidence about environmental changes and adaptive traits. Fourth graders were exploring how sound travels. Fifth graders were building terrariums and making predictions about what would happen in them over the coming weeks. In each classroom, science came alive  and evidence was abundant of students growing their speaking, listening, reading and writing skills right alongside their science content knowledge. This was in stark contrast to the direct instruction of science concepts we had used in the past.

Educators told our visitors they were grateful to have a curriculum that provided in one place all the pieces they needed to be effective. They no longer had to spend hours gathering and researching and putting lessons together on their own. They could now spend their time perfecting their craft. They quickly realized that their students were actively engaged in lessons, they were having fun, they were thinking critically, they were reading and writing about science  they were truly learning. There was an overwhelming consensus among educators and families that this shift in science instruction was a welcome one.

What happened in those two days of the Knowledge Matters tour would give any educator the frissons, a French word we use in south Louisiana when we get the chills. It was more than I ever expected  a few of us were even brought to tears. Perhaps best were the students voices, saying things like, Science is fun; Its like magic, but its real; Science is my favorite subject.

Our journey is far from complete. There is still much work to be done here in Lafourche Parish Schools. But we know we have laid the groundwork for future success with the help of a high-quality science curriculum. None of this could be done without the dedication of our classroom teachers and support from our families and community. The biggest winners in all of this are our students, the single reason we exist. We are definitely in this to win it for them!
The move towards personalized, competency-based learning in Arizonas Santa Cruz Valley Unified School District (SCVUSD) began with a very basic question  Are we doing what is best for our kids?

For more than three years now, SCVUSD has been working to shift the way it thinks about student achievement and grades as they work to integrate personalized, competency-based learning into district-wide strategies. This includes a move towards competency-based evaluation and standards-based grading.

Students at Calabasas School, one of five SCVUSD schools, track their own growth in WIN notebooks  a physical binder for kindergarten through fourth graders and a digital document for fifth through eighth graders. WIN stands for What I Need.

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Learners set goals for their academic growth in partnership with their teachers  easily pointing to where they started with their reading and math fluency, and where theyre going. The focus isnt on what they dont know, but instead on what they dont know yet.

The goal is to work towards proficiency. Students progress between levels of understanding, not grades. Level one being the typical starting point for most learners, three being proficient and four indicating mastery. The expectation is that most learners will progress to a three or a four in each standard by years end. If not, they can try again until they demonstrate proficiency in that area. What students have learned and still need to learn is prioritized over a single grade at a single point in time.

In a traditional grading system, arbitrary measures such as extra credit, classroom behavior or classroom participation are used to calculate a percentage  an 80 percent in one subject might mean something completely different than it does in another and provides little evidence of what has been learned. By contrast, standards-based grading moves students through a learning continuum and only when the student has demonstrated mastery are they moved to a subsequent level.

Story continues

Third grader Juan Antonio Espiricueta Jr. uses his WIN (What I Need) Notebook. The physical binder is used by kindergarten through fourth graders at Calabasas School to track progress towards academic goals for the school year. (Jillian Kuhlmann/KnowledgeWorks)

Through ongoing observational and formative assessment, teachers know where their students are and what they need. A teacher might create playlists or choice boards, for example, with five potential activities aligned to a standard. Students then choose three activities based on the options presented for the learners current level placement. Students cultivate agency by making meaningful choices about how theyll practice and how they will demonstrate their learning. Individual activities are complemented with teacher-facilitated small group work.

The big question on the mind of many educators when considering a move to a competency-based learning approach is often, How will this actually look and work in my classroom?

Related Mastery Learning Backers Launch New HS Transcript to Help Grads Apply to College

Opportunities to share lessons learned through inquiry labs have helped Arizona educators connect theory with practice by seeing it in action. As part of the state-led support system for personalized learning, through a partnership with the Center for the Future of Arizona and KnowledgeWorks, inquiry labs invite fellow educators for site visits where they can observe teaching and learning strategies, ask questions and leverage best practices and lessons learned.

In addition, the Arizona Personalized Learning Network provides pathways for individual educators, schools and districts to adopt, scale and spread personalized, competency-based learning with the goal of shifting systems. The network is a professional learning community made up of educators that are actively pursuing student-centered learning strategies in the classroom. KnowledgeWorks convenes these professional learning communities, offering teachers the support and professional development they need to try new things, prototype new strategies and shift their role in the classroom.

Martina Alvarez, a former math teacher at Rio Rico High School in SCVUSD, once skeptical of standards-based grading, is now its greatest advocate. After recognizing that in the traditional grading model assigning a failing grade had finality  the learning had ended, but the gaps in knowledge remained. By contrast, with standards-based grading, when a student earns a 1 or 2, they work with their teachers to create a learning plan to figure out what needs to be done to reach proficiency. Learning becomes cyclical, rather than a linear path students progress along whether they understand the content or not. Solving algebraic equations becomes a nearly impossible feat if you dont first know how to multiply and divide fractions.

For Yuki Carrillo, a third-grade teacher at Calabasas School, standards-based grading has also been well received by parents. While Carrillo is available to answer questions, student-led conferences allow students to explain their strengths, where they have gaps in learning, and most importantly, what comes next to advance along the continuum. Its not a secret what theyll be tested on, everyone has a shared understanding of what needs to be learned in order to advance to the next level.

Schools that change the way they think about grading must also change how they acknowledge academic achievement. Instead of the typical honor roll ceremonies, Calabasas School invites families to recognize their childs academic growth, proficiencies and MAP scores.

Ivan Arvizu and Nicole Fierro display their ceremonial rocks as part of their annual academic recognition celebration. (Jillian Kuhlmann/KnowledgeWorks)

In addition to a traditional certificate of achievement, elementary students embellish school ceiling tiles with painted handprints including their names and the year they will graduate. Middle grade students select a rock from the campus landscape and paint it before returning it to one of the campus many pathways. Their efforts feel tangible.

Theres a powerful feeling of hopefulness when you see children learning who they are and what they need to succeed. It makes you wonder why it cant be like this in every school, for every student.
Former President Trump in a Manhattan courtroom for his arraignment this month. (Curtis Means / Associated Press)

Even before the unprecedented indictment of former President Trump, Manhattan Dist. Atty. Alvin Bragg was widely accused of relying on a dubious legal theory . Many observers said the idea that a New York grand jury could charge Trump with covering up a federal crime was untested. They were wrong.

In the days before the indictment, some legal analysts warned that New York lacked jurisdiction to charge Trump with efforts to hide federal crimes such as illegally financing and influencing the presidential election. Bragg was criticized across the political spectrum for trying out a novel legal theory in a historic indictment. Even those hoping to see Trump held accountable were concerned that the questions surrounding the case could exacerbate national polarization.

When the indictment was unsealed, sighs of relief greeted the revelation that Trump could also be charged with concealing state tax crimes , which are well within Braggs jurisdiction. But the fact is that Bragg is on solid legal ground in accusing the former president of covering up federal crimes, too. There is nothing remotely novel about charging a defendant in one jurisdiction for trying to commit a crime in another.

Take the 1894 case in which two men, William Hall and John Dockery, fired shots from North Carolina across the border into Tennessee, where the bullets struck and killed someone. They were convicted of murder in North Carolina, but the conviction was overturned on the grounds that the killing took place in Tennessee, where they should have been brought to trial.

But what if Hall and Dockery had missed? In that case, the court made clear, North Carolina would have been within its rights to prosecute them for attempted murder. The attempted crime can take place in a jurisdiction other than the one that would rightly prosecute if the attempt were successful.

Or consider a much more recent case in New York. In 2009, Theophilis Burroughs took a deposit from undercover New York police officers and agreed to meet them in South Carolina, where he would sell them illegal guns. Had the plan been completed, Burroughs would have violated South Carolinas gun laws, not New Yorks. On these grounds, Burroughs claimed that New York had no right to prosecute him for the attempted illegal sale.

Story continues

But a court rejected his argument. If you try to break South Carolinas laws in New York, the reasoning went, you are committing a crime in New York: the crime of the attempt.

Trump, likewise, is not charged with successfully influencing a federal election. That would require showing that the election would not have proceeded as it did if he had not paid hush money to Stormy Daniels and Karen McDougal, which would be a very tall order. Trump may well have won in 2016 even if Daniels and McDougal told their stories before the election. If success would have required flipping the election his way, there would be at least reasonable doubt about such a charge.

Trump is really being charged with an attempt to illegally influence the election. To prove Trump is guilty of the crimes he is charged with, Bragg needs to show he was trying to hide something illegal by falsifying business records. And the crime Trump tried to commit that way need not be a crime in New York. That is, its as if he fired a shot across the border and, for all anyone can tell, missed.

This isnt to say we know how the case will turn out. People with the money to hire first-rate defense attorneys are regularly acquitted of quite ordinary charges. And judges are sometimes moved by specious arguments to the effect that ordinary charges are extraordinary.

But there is nothing extraordinary, much less new, about being charged with attempting to commit a crime in the jurisdiction where you made the effort  even if the successful crime would have taken place elsewhere.

Gideon Yaffe is a criminal law professor and a member of the Justice Collaboratory at Yale Law School. He is the author of Attempts: In the Philosophy of Action and the Criminal Law.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
This article was originally published in Nebraska Examiner.

LINCOLN  Nebraska would no longer be the only state in the union that doesnt provide some sort of school choice under a bill sent to final-round approval Thursday.

Legislative Bill 753 would permit state tax credits for donations to organizations that provide scholarships to kids to attend private and parochial schools. An estimated 5,000 students could switch to private schools, a legislative fiscal note says, and some senators predict it would lead to opening of more private and religious schools.

Initially, $25 million a year would be allowed for the credits, but the credits could eventually rise to $100 million a year. That would be more than the state spends a year on the State Patrol ($80 million a year) but about 10% of what Nebraska spends each year on state aid to K-12 public schools.

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Advocates: Lets students have a choice

Advocates portrayed the bill as a way to allow students, particularly low-income kids, the opportunity to attend a private school if they arent thriving in a public institution.

They cited three inner-city Catholic schools in Omaha where almost all students qualify for free school lunches, where very few are Catholic and where 94% graduate from high school on time, compared to 78% in the Omaha Public Schools.

This bill allows children to find the best school that fits their needs, even if they cant afford tuition, said State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Elkhorn, who has worked seven years to pass a school choice measure.

LB 753, which has the support of Gov. Jim Pillen, advanced from second-round debate on a 33-11 vote.

A legal workaround

Four hours of debate on the bill focused mainly on its fiscal impact on public school funding and whether the measure was a workaround to provide public funds to private schools.

Two attorneys opposed to the bill, Sens. George Dungan of Lincoln and John Cavanaugh of Omaha, questioned whether LB 753 violated a state constitutional prohibition on providing public aid to religious institutions.

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Dungan cited a Nebraska Law Review article in February by Anthony Schutz of the University of Nebraska College of Law that questioned whether the bill was constitutional.

Its not cut and dried, the senator said, adding that LB 753 appeared to be a workaround to make it constitutional.

But Linehan disputed that, citing Nebraska Supreme Court rulings that stated that it was OK to provide public funds to private schools.

Not an appropriation

She said LB 753 would not be an appropriation of state funds because its a tax credit.

Its not an appropriation if we never collect the money, Linehan said.

The tax credits, under the bill, would not go directly to schools but to scholarship granting organizations, which would provide scholarships, estimated to average $5,000 a year, to students.

Critics said that providing tax credits to private schools would reduce funds for public schools and might stress the state budget eventually.

A new fiscal note on the bill, prepared earlier this month, stated that if 5,000 students, as projected, switch from public to private schools in the states 11 largest school districts, it would reduce state aid to those schools by nearly $12 million due to the loss of students. But if the switches happened in a broader group of districts, there would be a mix of school aid winners and losers, with a projected overall hike in school aid of $92,000.

North Dakota bill awaits signature

Nebraska and North Dakota have been the only states that didnt provide some government funds for private/parochial education, but on Thursday, the North Dakota House gave final approval for a bill that provides funds for students to attend private schools.

The powerful state teachers union, the Nebraska State Education Association, has pledged to launch an initiative petition drive and put the issue before state voters if LB 753 passes.

After Thursdays vote, NSEA President Jenni Benson said legislators arent listening to Nebraska voters because a majority of them oppose giving public tax dollars to private schools.

Supporters of LB 753 claim its all sunshine and rainbows but the reality is LB 753 is a tax voucher scheme that will drain funding from our public schools and give it to unaccountable private schools that discriminate against kids, Benson said in a press release.

Linehan, during Thursdays debate, disputed that, saying that private schools must be approved by the state. Other supporters said the state offers all kinds of tax credits, and it could be argued that every one takes away funds from public schools.

A mayor fear of school choice opponents is that once the state opens the door to school choice, the program will grow and lead to approval of charter schools and vouchers  something supporters of LB 753 discount.

Two senators who represent North Omaha, Justin Wayne and Terrell McKinney, have supported the bill as giving children in their districts an option to public schools.

Another supporter of the bill, Omaha Sen. Brad von Gillern, said he expected that passage of the measure would aid in the construction of more private schools.

Von Gillern, who said he served as an elder at West Omahas Lifegate Church until October, said a coalition of groups, including Lifegate, is talking about opening a Christian high school in Omaha. The elementary school at Lifegate, he added, has a waiting list.

Theres definitely a need, von Gillern said.

The senator said he didnt consider his former post with the church and voting on LB 753 as any kind of conflict of interest. The Opportunity Scholarships would go to students, not the church or school, von Gillern said, and the success of a Christian school would be determined by how well it educates students.

Lawmakers did adopt one amendment to LB 753 on Thursday that had been suggested by Sens. Jana Hughes of Seward and Barry DeKay of Niobrara.

DeVos group spent heavily

Hughes said she was concerned that funds given to scholarship granting organizations (SGOs) didnt create a tax shelter. Her amendment requires that unused scholarship funds would be transferred to other SGOs or given to the state general fund.

DeKay said his part of the amendment would insure that there was a re-evaluation of the opportunity scholarship program after three years to ensure it was improving educational outcomes.

A similar opportunity scholarship bill failed to pass last year, but a national school choice group, funded by former U.S. Secretary of Education, Betsy DeVos, spent heavily last fall to get state senators elected who support the idea.

Nebraska Examiner is part of States Newsroom, a network of news bureaus supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Nebraska Examiner maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Cate Folsom for questions: info@nebraskaexaminer.com. Follow Nebraska Examiner on Facebook and Twitter.
Russian dictator Vladimir Putin

It will take at least eight years to process all the applications.

Only 15.7% of foreign companies in Russia have completely withdrawn from the Russian market.

Another 28% are waiting and 23.8% continue to work in the Russian market as before the war.

Read also: State mail company planning to provide electric bikes to mail carriers

The remaining 32.5% of foreign companies plan to withdraw from Russia soon.

In total, 1,212 (38.2%) foreign businesses have stopped operations and declared their intention to withdraw from Russia.

Read also: FSB confiscates passports from Russian officials and directors of state-owned companies  FT

In the last two weeks, two companies have been added to the exited category.

The 211 companies that have completely exited Russia as of April 16 had at least 331,500 employees, $47.6 billion in annual revenue, $36.5 billion in capital, and $45.4 billion in assets.

Companies that have stopped operating and plan to exit the market soon had 313,200 employees, $56.6 billion in annual revenue, $23.3 billion in capital, and $24.5 billion in assets.

Companies that have suspended operations in Russia had 171,500 employees, $42.2 billion in annual revenue, $17.4 billion in capital, and $30.9 billion in assets.

Read also: Putins ex-wifes loan company sees record profits amid Russias full-scale invasion

The impact that the complete withdrawal of the companies has had on the Russian economy is quantifiable. The companies employed almost one-quarter (23.1%) of the population, represented over one-fifth (20.9%) of foreign investment, generated $47.6 billion in revenues in 2021 (15.7% of total revenue), and paid $3.3 billion in taxes (13.2% of all taxes).



The Russian government is taking various measures in response to Western sanctions, KSE experts said.

Every Western company wanting to exit the Russian market and sell its assets must now transfer a direct payment to the budget of the aggressor state.

Only 9% of the nearly 1,500 global companies operating in Russia quit the country following its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Presidential Office advisor, Mykhailo Podolyak, said on Feb. 11.

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
Manuel Aguilar Villalobos

An Oxnard man has been sentenced to more than 136 years in prison in connection with almost a dozen sex-related crimes involving children, but his attorney said he will appeal on constitutional and fairness grounds.

Ventura County Superior Court Judge Paul W. Baelly sentenced Manuel Aguilar Villalobos late last month after a jury convicted the defendant of molesting several girls in the Oxnard area. The allegations first came to light last year for crimes prosecutors said had been carried out over 15 years when the four girls were 6 to 16 years of age.

Baelly sentenced Villalobos to an indeterminate term of 130 years to life in prison with the potential for parole plus a fixed term of six years and eight months. Villalobos, 62, will not be eligible for parole for many decades and may not be eligible for the rest of his life in the estimation of Edward Andrews, the senior deputy district attorney who prosecuted the case.

"It seems very unlikely that he would have the opportunity to commit these crimes in the community again," Andrews said.

Villalobos, who was arrested in September, pleaded not guilty to all charges and testified in his own defense at his two-week trial. He asked for probation at the sentencing hearing, but Baelly rejected that proposal.

A jury convicted him in March on 11 counts of sex crimes. The alleged offenses included committing lewd acts upon a child under age 14, unlawful sexual intercourse and unlawful oral copulation. The jury also found true more than three dozen related factors including sexual contact with more than one victim under age 14, violating a position of trust and confidence and abusing vulnerable victims.

The convictions for crimes against three of the victims were based on inappropriate touching of their private parts and kissing that did not go so far as intercourse or oral sex, Andrews said. With the fourth, the defendant engaged in inappropriate touching at first but as she got older, his behavior progressed to intercourse and oral sex, Andrews said.

Story continues

Villalobos' attorney, Damon Jenkins, argued against the sentence based on constitutional protections against cruel and unusual punishment and guarantees of equal protection and due process. Jenkins said he also objected based on new California laws aimed at reducing prison overcrowding that disproportionately affects minorities.

The defense presented evidence about Villalobos lack of a previous criminal record, his commitment to being a supportive father for his family and past traumas to lighten the penalties, but the court rejected those arguments, Jenkins said. Both the conviction and the sentence will be appealed, the senior deputy public defender said.

Villalobos is being held in the Todd Road Jail outside Santa Paula but court records suggest that his transfer to prison is imminent.

Andrews declined to comment on the still pending appeal because he has not seen it.

Kathleen Wilson covers courts, crime and local government issues for the Ventura County Star. Reach her at kathleen.wilson@vcstar.com.

This article originally appeared on Ventura County Star: Oxnard man plans appeal after 136-year sentence for sex crimes
By Natasha Ribeiro and Tyler Clifford

NEW YORK (Reuters) -A four-story parking facility collapsed in New York City's lower Manhattan near Pace University and the New York Stock Exchange on Tuesday, killing at least one worker and injuring five others who were inside the structure, authorities said.

Emergency personnel using robotic devices after firefighters were pulled back from the fallen structure due to unstable conditions checked the site for any further casualties, but officials said they believed all victims had been accounted for.

No foul play was suspected.

"We have no reason to believe that this was anything other than a structural collapse," City Police Commissioner Keechant Sewell told reporters.

Reuters video footage from the scene, in Manhattan's financial district blocks from the World Trade Center and New York Stock Exchange, showed a rescue operation getting underway and multiple cars stacked on top of one another amid crumpled slabs of concrete.

One person was pronounced dead on the scene, four more were taken to area hospitals for injuries and a sixth individual who was hurt declined medical treatment, said John Esposito, chief of fire operations for the New York City Fire Department.

He described all six as workers who were in the parking structure when it collapsed.

"This was an extremely dangerous situation for our firefighters," he told a late-afternoon news briefing. Esposito said firefighters ordered out of the structure had still been inside conducting searches as "the building was continuing to collapse."

Robot devices were then deployed, he said, marking the first time city firefighters had flown a drone aircraft into a fallen building to conduct a search.

Pace University, a private college campus whose students, faculty and staff use the parking structure, was evacuated as a precaution, authorities said.

"This building is completely unstable," New York City Mayor Eric Adams told reporters.

Story continues

The New York City Department of Buildings' online records showed that the structure, at the site of the collapse had been cited for 45 violations, including 25 since 2003, many related to its elevators.

One 2003 filing noted that "ceiling slab cracks exist" as well as "defective concrete with exposed rear cracks." It said an $800 penalty had been paid for the violation.

Eyewitnesses said the collapse was swift and without warning.

"It all happened so fast," said Thai Nguyen, 35, who lives in Chinatown and is a manager of the nearby Kollective Klub. "Our store is two buildings from the parking garage, and we also have a hotel next to us. People ran inside asking if they could take refuge inside our store."

Sandy Imhoff, 78, who lives in an adjacent apartment on the same street, said she fled her home with her two cats when her building began to shudder from the force of the collapse.

"My building was shaking. I only had time to grab my dog and leave the building," Imhoff said. "I'm really worried about my cats. But at least everyone in my building was able to evacuate. It's so unreal."

(Reporting by Tyler Clifford and Natasha Ribeiro in New York; Additional reporting by Kanishka Singh and Jasper Ward in Washington; Writing by Steve Gorman; Editing by Josie Kao)
Mayra and Eduardo Reyna and their daughter, Danika, 16, spent a lovely day Saturday in Bremerton as guests of the Washington Youth Academy.

Theyd been invited to family day by Danikas best friend, who is a cadet at the quasi-military school.

When activities wrapped up, the Reynas departed for the Bremerton ferry dock for the return trip across Puget Sound. They planned to dine at the Crazy Crab Pot in Seattle, then drive to Bellevue, where they had a hotel reservation.

Theyd drive home to the Tri-Cities on Sunday.

About 4 p.m., they boarded the Walla Walla, a 1973-built Washington state ferry.

Theyd expected to take a later boat, but there was room on the Walla Walla, so they drove on. Mayra Reyna, director of real estate for the Port of Pasco, remembers noticing the name of the boat and laughing.

We have to compete with Walla Walla for everything, she said, referring to the Tri-Cities competition for business and jobs.

Half an hour later, the Reynas and nearly 600 other passengers found themselves adrift as the Walla Walla lost power near Bainbridge Island.

Brace for impact

The hours-long misadventure began when the lights flickered twice. The captain announced there had been a problem but it was fixed. The lights returned and all seemed well.

The captain came on again. He informed passengers the aging ferry had lost propulsion and navigation. He ordered them to don life jackets and brace for impact.

Disbelief was the first reaction.

Everybody thought he was joking because the power came back on, she said.

He wasnt. Passengers were directed to a staging area, but not told which end of the boat it was on. Half headed for the bow, half for the stern.

You have 600 people running around like chickens, she recalled.

Nearly 600 passengers were stranded when the Washington State Ferry Walla Walla ran aground near Bainbridge Island on April 15. Mayra Reyna, a Port of Pasco executive, was traveling to Seattle with her family when the incident occurred.

Soon, everyone was wearing an orange vest and waiting for impact. At about 4:30, the ferry ran aground.

Bonfire on shoreline

The situation was confusing, but officers assured passengers there was no risk of sinking. Two tugs showed up. The Coast Guard. Helicopters were hovering. Police boats circled.

Story continues

On the shore, homeowners oozed onto decks to watch the unfolding drama. Someone lit a bonfire.

On the boat, a therapy-dog-in-training made the rounds, comforting nervous passengers. A small group of nuns looped around the deck as well, greeting fellow passengers. One, new to Washington, told fellow passengers it was her first-ever ferry trip.

The passengers included a group of sailors, headed to a ball and dressed to the nines. The uniformed military members stepped up to aid the ferry crew.

For Mayra Reyna, the ordeal was marked by long waits and sometimes conflicting information. There were at least two medical emergencies.

A doctor on board aided the first patient. By the time a woman collapsed an hour later, medics had boarded and were able to help.

Anxious hours

Mayra Reyna said the mood was calm and even friendly at first. But around 8 p.m., the uncertainty turned to anxiety.

Ferry crew handed out food from the concession stand to mixed results. The Reynas saw passengers walk off with entire boxes of candy, unwilling to share.

It was sad, she said.

Support boats and the U.S. Coast Guard pull alongside the grounded Washington State Ferry Walla Walla on April 15 near Bainbridge Island.

After five hours, the stranded passengers were transferred to Kitsap Transit ferries and returned to Bremerton. The Navy guys helped people across the gap between boats.

Mayra Reyna said her family was fortunate. She was able to book a hotel in Bremerton. Other passengers werent so lucky. People lined up at the desk behind her couldnt get rooms and the clerk didnt expect the influx.

They reached shore at 9:30 p.m., hungry and separated from their car and belongings. The ferry crew wouldnt let passengers go to their cars unless they needed medication. Danika slipped past and retrieved a phone charger.

While Mayra checked into the hotel, Eduardo and Danika looked for a Subway or something to eat. A 7 Eleven was the only business open.

They bought premade sandwiches and the stores last two toothbrushes.

The Walla Walla was freed around midnight and passengers were invited back at 9 a.m. Sunday to retrieve the 180 vehicles theyd left behind.

It was a chaotic scene, but Reynas eventually reclaimed their vehicle.

Nearby, another ferry was loading passengers and vehicles for a run to to Seattle. The Reynas looked at each other and said no.

They drove around via the Tacoma Narrows Bridge. After a stop at Cheesecake Factory, they booked it back to the Tri-Cities.

We had no energy or will to do anything else. We just wanted to get home.

The grounding of the Walla Walla is under investigation. Gov. Jay Inslee told the Seattle Times the states ferry fleet is aging and desperately needs new boats.

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A Tennessee pastor is facing charges after he was accused of using his churchs Wi-Fi to upload illegal images, deputies said.

The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children received a CyberTip saying a local churchs Wi-Fi was being used to upload child sex abuse material, according to an April 18 news release from the Williamson County Sheriffs Office.

Deputies of the Williamson County Sheriffs Office Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force began to investigate the tip and traced it to a church where 50-year-old Daryl Hayes was lead pastor, deputies said.

The task force executed a search warrant at the church and at Hayes home, deputies said, and found that Hayes was using the churchs internet connection to upload the material.

Neither Hayes family, nor the church, were aware of Hayes activities, according to the news release.

Deputies said the church cooperated fully with investigators, and Hayes was fired immediately.

Hayes was the lead pastor at Berrys Chapel Church of Christ in Franklin, Tennessee, Kenneth Young, a spokesperson for the church, confirmed to McClatchy News.

The church was made aware of the investigation into Hayes in December, Young told McClatchy News, and terminated Hayes once they were made aware.

While we are not aware of any harm to any families affiliated with Berrys Chapel Church of Christ, the Church condemns sexual immorality of any kind and especially holds its leaders to a high standard of accountability for their actions, especially those actions that may adversely affect children, Young said.

Hayes was charged with six counts of sexual exploitation of a minor, according to the news release.

Deputies do not believe local children were victims.

Williamson County is just south of Davidson County, where Nashville is the county seat.

Youth pastor used church Wi-Fi to download child porn after services, Florida cops say

Pastor killed in wrong-way crash driving to Palm Sunday service, Michigan officials say

Church hosting drag show vandalized with Molotov cocktails. Cops want event canceled

Womans toes grew back because of prayer, Missouri pastor says. Website wants proof
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 17)  An alleged leader of the New People's Army was arrested in Malaysia earlier this month, authorities confirmed on Monday.

A statement from the Philippine Army's 10th Infantry Division said Eric Jun Casilao was apprehended in Langkawi in a joint operation by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, Bureau of Immigration, and Department of Foreign Affairs, together with the Royal Malaysian Police and Malaysian Immigration.

He was apprehended at the Jeti Point International Clearance Gate, Langkawi on April 1, as he was boarding a ferry bound for Koh Lipe, Thailand.

"Eric Jun Casilao was put on the Malaysian Red Notice List for falsification of passport by assuming fake identity. Likewise, after his arrest, Eric Casilao was detained for violating Malaysian Immigration laws and deported to the Philippines on April 17, 2023," the statement said.

Casilao has warrants of arrest for murder, kidnapping and serious illegal detention, and attempted murder, it added.

In a separate statement, the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) said Casilao's arrest is proof of Philippine laws at work.

Meanwhile, former Anakpawis Party-list representative Ariel Casilao appealed for his brother's safety, adding that his lawyers were "denied information regarding the details of his deportation to the Philippines."

"I believe that Eric has the right to have access to his lawyers, at every stage of his being in the custody of authorities, and especially in the duration of his deportation and travel from Malaysia to the Philippines. I am very worried of his safety," he said in a statement.
New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft led a delegation that included rapper Meek Mill on a march in Poland on Tuesday to honor victims and survivors of the Holocaust.

The 3-kilometer March of the Living is an annual commemoration that covers the Auschwitz-Birkenau complex, the largest Nazi concentration camp during World War II.

The event is being attended by Kraft as part of his Foundation to Combat Antisemitism, which he started in 2019 to address hate against Jews. Kraft lit the first torch at the outset of the march, a Patriots team spokesman said.

Kraft was one of several celebrities who helped advocate on behalf of Mill, who was released from prison in 2018 after initially being sentenced to two to four years in jail for probation violations in decade-old gun and drug convictions.

Kraft has since joined Mill, rap mogul Jay Z and Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin in the Reform Alliance, a group that lobbies for changes to state probation and parole laws.

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Penn States undergraduate students do not trust their university to take reports of sexual misconduct seriously  nor provide supportive accommodations, nor handle reports fairly  according to the results of a recently released universitywide survey.

According to University Parks 2022 Sexual Misconduct Climate Survey, only 42.9% of female undergrads  and 24.6% of gender-diverse undergrads  believe Penn State would take a report of sexual misconduct seriously. Thats a significant drop from 2018, when 62.9% of female undergrads answered in the affirmative and from 2015, when 72.8% said the same.

While the survey data at Penn State show results and trends similar to institutions across the country, the findings are troubling, university spokesperson Lisa Powers said in a written statement. These trends toward non-reporting and lower trust are a cause for concern and emphasize that more work is needed. One sexual assault is too many and we must continue to improve our processes and increase confidence and safety for our students.

As Powers mentioned, it is possible students perceptions could reflect a national trend and might not be indicative of issues isolated to University Park. But the declining trust in the university was still among the biggest statistical changes in the survey, which last spring polled 2,799 undergrads and 1,233 graduate/professional students.

Other universities conduct similar  but different  surveys, and many have not yet made their most recent results public. Anecdotally, Michigan States 2022 survey found that 72.2% of female undergrads believe their school would take reports seriously. By contrast, Wake Forests 2022 survey revealed that only 39.7% of female undergrads believed it would be very or extremely likely their reports would be taken seriously.

Changes in trust

Undergraduate students lack of trust in the University Park campus wasnt limited to just one question or example. It followed a recurring theme:

Story continues

Safety distrust : Only 51.1% of female undergrads  and 40.5% of gender-diverse undergrads  believed Penn State would protect the safety of the person making a report. That compares to 67.1% of female undergrads in 2018 and 73.4% in 2015.

Support distrust : Some 39.4% of female undergrads  and 26.1% of gender-diverse undergrads  believed Penn State would provide accommodations to support the person making a report. That compares to 53.4% of female undergrads in 2018 and 55.9% in 2015.

Fairness distrust : Only 41.9% of female undergrads  and 20.2% of gender-diverse undergrads  believed Penn State would handle a report fairly. That compares to 57.5% of female undergrads in 2018 and 66.7% in 2015.

Overall distrust: Some 34.7% of female undergrads  and 18.8% of gender-diverse undergrads  believed Penn State would take action to address factors that led to a report. That compares to 51.1% of female undergrads in 2018 and 59.8% in 2015.

Typically, marginalized communities showed greater distrust than their white counterparts when it came to survey responses. And undergraduates showed greater distrust than graduate/professional students.

These survey data are a first step in understanding our students perceptions and experiences, both at Penn State and across the country, Powers said. Results from national surveys and at other institutions have not been released so we currently lack the ability to compare, but we will be doing so to see if there is a national trend toward distrust in institutions/authority, lower response rates, and potential impact from the pandemic  all of which could be contributing factors.

Other survey findings

Dozens of questions were asked in the survey, which Penn State organized into a 41-page report for University Park. Each commonwealth campus also conducted its own survey.

Among other highlights/lowlights found in the main campus report:

Female undergrads feel safer than they did in 2015  but less safe compared to 2018 : Some 62.5% of female undergrads said they felt safe from sexual harassment in 2022, 66.5% felt safe from sexual violence and 75.7% felt safe from stalking. That compares favorably to 2015, but not 2018. For example, when it came to safety from sexual violence, 71.8% of female undergrads said they felt safe in 2018 and 61.6% in 2015.

A rising number of female undergrads feel there isnt much they can do to combat sexual misconduct : This number continues to climb. It stood at 17.8% of female undergrads in 2015, 33.8% in 2018 and 42.5% in 2022.

More than 4 in 10 gender-diverse undergrads say faculty/staff subjected them to offensive sexist remarks : Some 43.5% of such students said they were subject to the remarks. (Its difficult to compare to past years, since Penn State previously grouped non-heterosexual and gender-diverse groups together.) That compared to 23% of female undergrads, which saw rises from 2015 (18.8%) and 2018 (20.4%).

Slightly more undergrad women say theyve been sexually assaulted, compared to past years : Some 27.8% of female undergraduates say theyve survived at least one instance of completed or attempted oral, vaginal or anal sexual assault, compared to 27.5% in 2015 and 27.1% in 2018. Some 32.7% also say theyve survived an instance of non-consensual touching, fondling or kissing  compared to 30.2% in 2015 and 28.1% in 2018.

Fewer female undergrads are talking to others about personal incidents involving stalking, dating violence and/or non-consensual touching : In 2022, only 52.6% of female undergrads said they talked to anyone  including roommates or friends  about their firsthand experiences, compared to 62.9% in 2018. Instances of reporting were largely down across the board. The percentage speaking to an on-campus counselor was 5.8% in 2022 and 9.1% in 2018, compared to off-campus counselors at 3.5% in 2022 and 4.4% in 2018. Only 1.9% spoke to campus police in 2022, a decrease from 2.9% in 2015.

Campus police were considered least-useful in helping deal with reported incidents : Students were given seven options for resources in the survey  such as university faculty/staff, on-campus counselors/therapists, etc.  and were asked to rank the helpfulness of each resource. Of the seven choices, campus police were ranked last, as 26.7% of undergrads believed they were moderately or very useful in helping. That finished just behind the Office of Student Conduct (29.2%). The most helpful included residence advisers and Residence Life staff (77.8%), followed by University Health Services (61.5%).

The most-repeated reason female undergrads dont report some incidents involving sexual misconduct is because they believe its more trouble than its worth: Some 47.7% of female undergrads said that was one reason they didnt report. Although that was also the most-repeated reason in past surveys, the percentage has still significantly dropped. It stood at 73.6% in 2018.

In a news release announcing the publication of the 2022 Sexual Misconduct Climate Survey, the university said it plans to use the data as a guide to address problems and inform policy. Powers added Monday that conversations tied to the survey have already begun.

As always, our goal is to engage students in conversation so that they can add their voices to the survey findings and also help inform programs and initiatives, she said. We have started the conversation with Coalition to Address Relationship and Sexual Violence (CARSV), a group of faculty, staff, and students, and will continue to seek out all our communities to make sure all are being heard.

Resources

There are a number of local, state and national resources at the disposal of Penn State students and others in Centre County. Here is a list, much of which was compiled by the university:

On-campus

Off-campus
The Florida House of Representatives may soon ask Gov. Ron DeSantis to sign a bill that prevents children from being in attendance at adult live performances that some say target drag shows.

Though Senate Bill 1438, called the "Protection of Children" bill, doesn't single out any group of individuals, members of the LGBTQ+ community say it follows the same steps seen in other states that crack down on performances that directly affect them.

Last week, SB 1438 passed with a 28-12 vote inching one step closer to preventing minors from attending events that some may consider sexual, or lewd by depicting nudity or the exposure of prosthetics or imitation of breasts. If passed, the legislation could impact Alachua County more than neighboring counties, as Gainesville often hosts a number of drag performances throughout the year.

[These politicians] dont come and see how much fun we have and how real [drag shows are], said drag performer Rachel Boheme.

Gainesville drag queen Jade Jolie performs at the University Club on Thursday, January 17, 2013, in Gainesville Fla. Jolie was selected to compete in the fifth season of RuPauls Drag Race.

More: Thursday, Less Than Jake, Descendants to headline Fest 21

More: DeSantis touts new bill to assert control over Disney, suggests building prison near resort

The time to be LGBTQ+ is becoming more and more controversial as anti-drag bills are beginning to sweep the nation. Last month, Tennessee passed a law that made prohibited drag shows with children present.

Boheme, wearing a purple sequin gown and matching-colored wig that reached just below her shoulders, expressed her grievances about the legislation as she prepared for her performance at the University Club, located at 18 E University Ave. in Gainesville.

It is not about anything other than us just showcasing our art," the 31-year-old said.

Her colleague, Emma Gration, was also taken back after learning about recent attacks on establishments that promoted such events, including a bar that lost its liquor license for hosting a Christmas-themed drag show.

My immediate reaction was obviously in a state of disbelief, she said, adding that drag has been an outlet of expression. My mind raced to think that my venues would be hit by this silly legislation.

Story continues

Drag expresses the feelings the [gay community] has endured. Its a way for queer people to celebrate themselves through this art form ... Drag, to me, has saved my life."

Caleb Collins waits in the University Club dressing room for a show to begin at University Club.

Other voices

Caitlyn Schiffer, a 19-year-old journalism student at the University of Florida, attended Gration and Boheme's recent performance while filming a feature on their drag queen competition. It was her first time attending a drag event.

There are such prevalent issues occurring in America right now, she said, and these lawmakers are choosing to crack down on topics that affect their religious beliefs and have nothing to do with the safety of the public.

Schiffer said that the barring of such events is unfortunate given the joy it brings to so many. For those who have issues with the shows, she proposed a more simple solution: "Don't go to one."

Loren Miranda, 20, also in attendance, shared her thoughts on the issue, too.

Gainesville drag queen Jade Jolie listens to music in the dressing room before her performance at the University Club on Thursday, January 17, 2013, in Gainesville Fla. Jolie was selected to compete in the fifth season of RuPauls Drag Race.

Drag isnt perverted or overly sexual, the sophomore journalism major said. The fact that trans and LGBT individuals are the only ones impacted by these bills isnt a coincidence.

Like Schiffer, University Club was also the first drag venue Miranda attended. She has made efforts to learn and support the art form ever since.

It inspired me to continue supporting drag talent in my own hometown of Tampa at local gay clubs and bars there, she said. Even if its just being there cheering them on.

Miranda described the feelings she is overcome with when watching members of the queer community show off their talents through song, dance, hair and makeup.

Watching a drag show and seeing someone show the most true and honest version of themselves is life-changing, she said.

Drag means the freedom to express yourself in any way possible, even if it isnt pleasing to everyone or expected from others.

This article originally appeared on The Gainesville Sun: 'Anti-drag' legislation draws reaction from UF students, performers
Cub Scouts lead a flag ceremony during an assembly honoring veterans at Midas Creek Elementary in Riverton on Monday, Nov. 12, 2018. | Ravell Call, Deseret News

When my oldest son wanted to join the Cub Scouts  a K-5 coed program of the Boy Scouts of America  I resisted at first. I told him we could go to one meeting, just to check it out, but that we might want to preserve more downtime in our familys schedule rather than adding yet another activity.

But after that meeting, he came home reciting the Scout Oath, which reads in part: On my honor I will do my best to do my duty  to keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight.

They had me at do my duty. Were now a Cub Scouts family. Heres why.

We live in an increasingly politicized country, where parenting and educational practices diverge ever more by ideology  to the detriment of us all.

On the right, the old-fashioned authority that children desperately need is too often coupled with racial and religious prejudice. Some lean into theocracy, teaching that only the principles of their faith should govern the country. Others, dubbing themselves legacy Americans, claim American values only for white, Protestant people whose ancestors have been here for far longer than mine.

Meanwhile, on the left, a worthy emphasis on inclusion and pluralism has become too often inextricable from the denigration of longstanding American values like personal responsibility, agency and hard work. For example, some proponents of anti-racism ideology say that an emphasis on high standards, measurable outcomes and writing well are characteristics of white supremacy culture.

No wonder were polarized.

Yet Cub Scouts manages to square this increasingly impossible circle in a way that feels reminiscent of my own 1990s childhood. There is an emphasis on diversity and inclusion, as well as an acknowledgement of past wrongs and a commitment to youth safety, alongside an appreciation of the old-school American values that rightly belong to us all.

Related

Story continues

The organization emphasizes the personal accountability of The Pilgrims Progress, John Bunyans allegorical guide to Christian self-mastery that was many 19th-century Americans educational text of choice.

More importantly, Cub Scouts rejects the fragility of Tracy Hoexters A Wrinkled Heart, a picture book about mean words being permanently wounding that is commonly referenced in schools today. Scouts recite a list of characteristics that are supposed to define a Cub Scout, including brave, trustworthy, reverent and helpful. The rhetoric inculcates an orientation toward solving others problems rather than wallowing in ones own. Resilience is an expectation, as is moral leadership.

Earlier this year, it was reported at my sons den meeting that there had been some troublemaking in second grade. My son and his fellow scouts told their den leader that none of them had been involved. Without missing a beat, the den leader responded that he would not expect any less, encouraging them to be behavioral leaders among their classmates.

These are exactly the kinds of lessons that my husband and I want our all-American boys to absorb.

Their paternal grandparents came to this country from Liberia in the 1970s and 1980s, then settled in inner-city Cleveland and raised four college graduates and successful professionals. Two of their maternal great-great-grandmothers arrived here from Romania and Italy, respectively, in the 1910s  the former a 15-year-old on the run from the Russian pogroms and the latter an 18-year-old picture bride.

Thirty years before the Jewish granddaughter of one of these women (my sons maternal grandmother) met the Catholic grandson of the other (their maternal grandfather), the two were working in the same inner-city Philadelphia sweatshop.

My sons  Black, multiethnic, Mass-attending Catholics who as toddlers attended the same synagogue nursery school that some of their Jewish cousins once did  are as American as apple pie.

Related

So, contrary to much of the energy on todays right, the freedoms and privileges of life in America are just as much my sons birthright as they are the descendants of white Americans of European descent. And, contrary to much of the energy on todays left, my sons are just as capable of meeting the responsibilities and demands of life in America as anyone else.

For my kids and for everyone elses  more than 73 million all-American girls and boys of every color, creed and background I want to live in a 21st-century America that acknowledges and lives out this reality of genuine equality.

Such an America would require our vast diversity of citizens and institutions to make intentional efforts to sound more like the Cub Scouts and less like either side of our increasingly polarized politics.

So, to help do our small part, well continue with Cub Scouts. Our middle son is excited to start next year. For the kind of countercultural, formative programming the organization offers, its worth being busy.

Elizabeth Grace Matthew is a freelance writer, an Americas Future Foundation Writing Fellowship alumna and a Young Voices contributor. Her work has appeared in America Magazine, Law and Liberty, The Hill, The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and The Philadelphia Inquirer.
Watch: Philip Hammond warns of 'real risk' to London financial services from EU crypto bill | The Crypto Mile

Former UK chancellor Philip Hammond has warned that the EU's forthcoming crypto regulation bill could create such an attractive trading environment for the web3 sector that Brussels could eclipse London "in terms of financial services innovation".

The European Union will vote on the final wording of the Markets in Crypto Assets (MiCA) bill this month. It is set to make the bloc the first major global jurisdiction to install a comprehensive regulatory framework for the crypto sector.

The law is expected to provide credibility to the crypto sector, with licensed crypto-asset service providers (CASPs) required to offer investor protections under MiCA across the EU.

Speaking on this week's episode of Yahoo Finance UK's The Crypto Mile, Hammond warned that if the EU sets the right regulatory balance between freedom and restriction, the bloc could eclipse London as a centre of trade for digitised financial markets.

Read more: Crypto live prices

"I think there is a real risk, and candidly this is the first time in 40 years that there has ever been an issue in which Eurozone countries looked as though they are going to be ahead of the UK in terms of financial services innovation, Hammond said.

"During the time that the UK was a member of the EU, typically the UK drove the financial services agenda, and was always a first mover.

Former chancellor Philip Hammond: 'At the moment, we are quite some way away from the UK becoming a global crypto hub.' Photo: Aaron Chown/PA via Getty

"It is a very uncomfortable proposition to think that with the MiCA vote coming up, we could see the European Union offering a trading environment which is more permissive and looks more attractive to institutions and to innovators, than the UK does.

The UK government is working to regulate the crypto sector through amendments to the Financial Services and Markets Bill.

Hammond said that London needs to establish itself as the premier trading venue for digitised assets, to ensure the future of Britain's financial services industry post-Brexit.

Story continues

Read more: Philip Hammond on CBDCs, stablecoins and crypto's place in global finance | The Crypto Mile

Hammond believes that this centres around web3 innovation, the digitisation of traditional markets and cryptocurrency trading.

"I am hopeful that the very fact of the European Union moving forward on its MiCA plan would jolt regulators and legislators in the UK awake, and just underscore that this is not some marginal activity being experimented on by a few third tier jurisdictions, it is mainstream," he said.

UK needs an optimal balancing act when setting regulation

Hammond said: "As ever, when designing a regulatory regime for a new product, its a very careful balancing act; if you err on the side of being too accommodating, you risk disasters happening and your reputation being trashed. If you err on the side of being too restrictive, then the business goes elsewhere.

"If you look back over the past 40 or 50 years, the UK has a pretty good record in financial services regulation of getting this balance about right and being not the most accommodating jurisdiction, but being accommodating enough to attract the services away from more conservative jurisdictions, and I hope we are about to pull this trick off again."

UK's ambition to become 'global crypto hub'

In 2021, Hammond became senior advisor at London-based crypto custody firm Copper, becoming chair of the company in 2023.

He described the UK as currently lagging behind other jurisdictions in terms of its ambition to become "a global crypto hub".

Read more: Philip Hammond: Big finance's move into crypto is unstoppable

In April 2022, then-chancellor Rishi Sunak planned to make the UK a global crypto asset technology hub. Alongside former economic secretary to the Treasury John Glen, he laid out a roadmap for the UKs crypto future.

This included the development of new legislation for a "financial market infrastructure sandbox" that can aid crypto-firms to innovate.

However, Hammond said: "At the moment, we are quite some way away from the UK becoming a global crypto hub.

"I see other jurisdictions around the world making significant strides towards creating broader digitised financial markets, which is the big prize here.

"I hope it is not too late, and I hope that the UK will move into the vanguard of this action. But at the moment, it is the smaller jurisdictions that are making the running.

Should the UK follow the US's harsh regulatory stance on crypto?

"The regulatory environment needs to be safe, secure and effective, and in my own view, the US has gone too far in effectively making it impossible for certain actors to participate in digital asset marketplace," Hammond said.

"But, I don't think that is necessary given the size and the sophistication of the actors. I think the UK does have an opportunity to lead a well regulated, properly ordered digital marketplace, which is none the less more accommodating to those big intuitional players, than the US looks as though it is going to be."

He highlighted the issue of competing regulators in the US. In contrast, the UK has a single regulatory authority for financial services, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

"The US has got a bit of an intuitional challenge here, in the fact that there are competitive regulators in the US, and whenever a new product or market place comes along, there is always a sense that different regulators are trying to position themselves around that.

Read more: Germany considers following Italy in banning ChatGPT

"We have just the one regulatory here in the UK for financial services, so it seems to me that there is an opportunity now for the UK, as it has done successfully in the past to identify a mistake, which is an excess of regulation in the US, and thus create a more attractive environment in the UK."

There is global competition to attract players in the web3 space.

Hong Kong has implemented its own crypto and digital asset regulatory framework, and Gulf states such as Dubai are also positioning themselves as attractive environments for digital asset trading.

The colonisation of the web3 sector by traditional finance and web2 firms is advancing, and according to Hammond, jurisdictions neglect the growth potential of the sector "at their peril".

Watch: Philip Hammond on CBDCs, stablecoins and crypto's place in global finance | The Crypto Mile

Download the Yahoo Finance app, available for Apple and Android.
CHICAGO (AP)  Philadelphia All-Star slugger Bryce Harper faced a left-hander for the first time in his quest to return sooner from Tommy John surgery.

Im going to keep pushing the envelope and trying to do everything I can to be ready, Harper said Tuesday after facing Ranger Suarez prior to Tuesdays doubleheader against the Chicago White Sox.

This marked only the second time Harper has faced live pitching, and he admitted I still need to get into the grind of things.

Harper saw 16 pitches, and he hit a fly to center, grounded to second base, fouled three pitches and swung and missed three times against Suarez.

I wish Ranger was throwing a little more pitches at a time, Harper said of Suarez, who is recovering from a left forearm injury. I want to see more. At the same time, I want to be smart, too, with who Im facing.

I dont want to face a guy from low-A and get blown up in the hand or anything like that. I just want to be smart with whom Im facing, what Im doing, when were doing it.

Harper declined to say whether he was ahead of schedule in his recovery, but his work at first could suggest he could return sooner than June. He still has yet to be medically cleared to play any position until he can resume throwing.

I dont want to get out there and not play to my ability unless I can do it, Harper said.

Harper also is mindful of sliding feet first and not risking an injury to his right elbow.

If I slide head first and hit my right arm on the ground, its the same thing, Harper said. I could sprain my arm and be out for five to seven months. Theres no reason to rush that. I need to be smart in what I do. Im not going to rush anything out there because it does nothing good for our team or organization if I come back the fastest and not the smartest in what I do.

___

AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports
A photo of Kenyas opposition leader Raila Odinga receiving medical care was shared on social media with claims that it was taken after he complained of chest pains following an anti-government protest in Nairobi in March 2023. But this is false: the picture dates back to 2017 when he was hospitalised with suspected food poisoning. Odingas party Azimio la Umoja told AFP Fact Check that the politician did not fall ill after recent rallies. Moreover, there are no such reports in local media.

"Verified reports reaching me from highly reliable sources indicate that Azimio Leader Raila Odinga complained of severe chest pains before fainting immediately after addressing residents of Pipeline Estate (sic)," reads a tweet published on March 30, 2023.

Pipeline Estate is a residential suburb in Kenyas capital, Nairobi.

Screenshot showing the misleading post, taken on April 18, 2023

The photo shows Odinga lying in what looks like a hospital bed while being attended to by medical staff.

The same claim was shared elsewhere on Twitter as well as on Facebook.

Anti-government protests

Odinga lost the presidential election in August 2022 to William Ruto by a slim margin. Since then, tensions have been rising between the camps.

In February 2023, Odinga gave Ruto a two-week ultimatum (archived here) to address alleged election fraud in last year's vote and tackle Kenyas exorbitant living costs, as well as halt the ongoing process of appointing new electoral commissioners.

On March 20, 2023, the opposition leader spearheaded the first public protest (archived here) in Nairobi.

On March 30, his Azimio la Umoja party held (archived here) its third protest rally in Nairobis Pipeline estate. Thousands of Kenyans responded to Odinga's call to action and joined marches in Nairobi and other parts of the country. At least three people died (archived here), and businesses and property were damaged.

After two weeks of violent protests, Ruto and Odinga separately announced that they had agreed on April 2 to bipartisan negotiations (archived here) spearheaded by parliament to address the oppositions concerns.

Story continues

However, the opposition warned protests would resume if it did not deem the negotiations meaningful.

Old photo

AFP Fact Check already debunked (archived here) the image in the post when it was taken out of context in 2022.

A reverse image search showed that the photo was first published more than five years ago.

The image appeared in Kenyan media reports here and here (archived here and here) when Odinga was hospitalised in 2017 for suspected food poisoning following a series of rallies on Kenyas coast.

At the time, Odinga was contesting the presidency under the National Super Alliance (NASA) and faced off against former President Uhuru Kenyatta.

There have been no reports in local media of Odinga fainting or falling ill on March 30, 2023, when he hosted a protest rally in Nairobis Pipeline estate.

The Azimio la Umoja party told AFP Fact Check that this claim is propaganda, and that "Raila is in good health".

"He did not fall ill during our March 30 rally in Pipeline, Nairobi."
A German photographer has turned down a prestigious prize after revealing that his winning photograph was created using artificial intelligence.

Boris Eldagsen was named the winner in the creative open category at the Sony World Photography Awards, with his black and white photograph Pseudomnesia / The Electrician. The image shows a young woman standing in front of the camera while an older woman stands behind her.

However, one week after he won the prize, Eldagsen shared a statement on his website announcing that he would not accept the awards.

I applied as a cheeky monkey, to find out, if the competitions are prepared for AI images to enter. They are not, he wrote.

We, the photo world, need an open discussion. A discussion about what we want to consider photography and what not. Is the umbrella of photography large enough to invite AI images to enter  or would this be a mistake?

Eldagsen, who specialises in photo and visual art, said that he hoped to speed up this debate by refusing the award.

He suggested that if you dont know what to do with the prize, please donate it to the fotofestival in Odesa, Ukraine.

A spokesperson for the World Photography Organisation said that Eldagsen told them he had co-created the image using AI before he was announced as the winner.

As per the rules of the competition, the photographers provide the warranties of their entry, they told The Guardian.

The creative category of the open competition welcomes various experimental approaches to image making from cyanotypes and rayographs to cutting-edge digital practices. As such, following our correspondence with Boris and the warranties he provided, we felt that his entry fulfilled the criteria for this category, and we were supportive of his participation.

The WPO added that they had additionally welcomed Boriss wish for dialogue, but had suspended working with him after he declined the award.

Given his actions and subsequent statement noting his deliberate attempts at misleading us, and therefore invalidating the warranties he provided, we no longer feel we are able to engage in a meaningful and constructive dialogue with him, they said.
A winner in an international photography competition has renounced his award after revealing that his artwork was generated with the help of artificial intelligence.

German artist Boris Eldagsen said he submitted his image to this years Sony World Photography Awards in a bid to test whether such competitions are prepared for the entrance of realistic, AI-generated submissions. His announced win last month in the creative category led him to conclude that they are not.

AI images and photography should not compete with each other in an award like this. They are different entities. AI is not photography. Therefore I will not accept the award, he said in a statement last week that was shared on his website.

Eldagsen said he did not initially disclose that his artwork was AI-generated when in December he submitted his piece, titled Pseudomnesia: The Electrician. The contest said the submissions could be made using any device, he said.

Boris Eldagsen's AI-generated image that won first place in the creative category in this year's Sony World Photography Awards.

Boris Eldagsen's AI-generated image that won first place in the creative category in this year's Sony World Photography Awards.

It was only after his black-and-white image depicting two women was named victor in the creative category that Eldagesn said he revealed to the contests organizers that he had received some extra help.

In a message that he said he sent to Creo, which organizes the contest with its World Photography Organisation, he said that he didnt want any misunderstandings and that after two decades in photography my artistic focus has shifted more and more to exploring creative possibilities of AI generators.

In a later follow-up email, he said he wanted to make it clear that his art was produced as an experiment with AI generators, knowing that there will be [an] outcry amongst the photographers community.

The contests organizers stood by awarding him first place in the creative category, however, stating that it welcomes various experimental approaches to image making from cyanotypes and rayographs to cutting-edge digital practices.

Story continues

As such, following our correspondence with Boris and the warranties he provided, we felt that his entry fulfilled the criteria for this category, and we were supportive of his participation, Creos World Photography Organisation said in a statement shared with HuffPost Tuesday.

Eldagsen was still stripped of the award and any recognition on Creos website, however, with the organization reasoning that he rejected the accolade and he admitted to trying to fool the judges.

Given his actions and subsequent statement noting his deliberate attempts at misleading us, and therefore invalidating the warranties he provided, we no longer feel we are able to engage in a meaningful and constructive dialogue with him, the organization said.

A new winner will not be named in the creative category, a spokesperson said.

Eldagsen, who did not immediately respond to HuffPosts requests for comment, said he hopes that his refusal of the award spurs more discussions on AI images in art.

We, the photo world, need an open discussion, he said in an online statement. A discussion about what we want to consider photography and what not. Is the umbrella of photography large enough to invite AI images to enter  or would this be a mistake? With my refusal of the award I hope to speed up this debate.

This wasnt the first art contest to be controversially won by AI.

Last year, the Colorado State Fair awarded an AI-generated image a blue ribbon in the fairs contest for emerging digital artists, sparking some outcry over the award entrys legitimacy.

I talked to Jason Allen, who submitted an AI-generated piece to the Colorado State Fair and won first prize.



Art is dead, dude, he told me. Its over. A.I. won. Humans lost.https://t.co/JNlpGm5PZf  Kevin Roose (@kevinroose) September 2, 2022

The contests judges told local news outlet The Pueblo Chieftain that they were unaware that the artwork had been created using AI, but even if they had known, it would have still been awarded first place. A spokesperson for the Colorado Department of Agriculture told the Chieftain that there may be future policy changes.

Creating AI-generated artwork is as simple as entering a series of words into AI art-generating software. One free online program is called Dream. These programs then turn out custom images based on those words.

In Eldagsens work, he said his images were co-produced using AI image generators. His series of work titled Pseudomnesia, which he notes is a Latin term for fake memory, was imagined by language and re-edited more between 20 to 40 times through AI image generators, he posted on his website.
Filippo Inzaghi of AC Milan celebrates his goal during the Serie A match between AC Milan and US Lecce at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on August 29, 2010 in Milan, Italy.

Pippo Inzaghi has told FourFourTwo about his relationship with strike partner Alessandro Del Piero  and the truth about whether the pair ever got on or not.

Inzaghi played with Del Piero for Juventus and Italy, with many pundits and outlets at the time claiming that the strike duo fell out in Turin. The strikers flourished together with Zinedine Zidane playmaking behind  but after Del Piero returned from a knee injury, there appeared to be tension as the Italians tried to rekindle their chemistry.

In a game against Venezia, Inzaghi ignored the better-positioned Del Piero on several occasions, with Del Piero let his feelings known in the post-match interview, as his barren run in open play continued no thanks to his colleague. Now, however, Inzaghi has told his side.

Alessandro Del Piero and Filippo Inzaghi of Juventus during the Italian Serie A match against Parma played at the Stadio Communale in Florence, Italy. The game ended in a 1-1 draw.

"Alessandro and I never really had any problems," he reveals to FFT. "That whole story goes back to a famous match against Venezia in February 2000: I scored a hat-trick, and for my second I couldve squared the ball to him.

"Thats a typical Italian paradox: a striker scores three and he gets criticised for not passing the ball. I became tired of being criticised all the time; I was scoring 25 to 30 goals every season, but people kept saying I was too egoistic.

"That had nothing to do with Del Piero, though."

Eventually, Inzaghi would move to AC Milan, while Del Piero remained at the Old Lady before moving to Australia. Both players left their respective Italian sides on exactly the same day  and both had a great relationship on the pitch while it lasted.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 17)  The legal team of Leila De Lima said Monday that one of the remaining drug cases against the former senator has been submitted for decision.

During a chance interview, Boni Tacardon, legal counsel of de Lima, said they expect the decision to be promulgated on May 12.

Malalaman na natin dito kung inosente nga si Sen. Leila de Lima at hinihiling namin ang dasal ng ating mga kababayan, he said.

[Translation: We will find out here if Sen. Leila de Lima is indeed innocent and we ask for the prayers of our countrymen.]

Tacardon said the case was filed following an allegation that de Lima, a known critic of former President Rodrigo Duterte, received drug money from the New Bilibid Prison inmates.

But this claim was retracted by former Bureau of Corrections officer-in-charge Rafael Ragos early last year, claiming he was coerced by then Justice chief Vitaliano Aguirrean appointee of Duterte.

Likewise, drug dealer Kerwin Espinosa also withdrew his allegations against De Lima, who has been in jail since 2017 over accusations that she funded her senatorial campaign using drug money.

De Lima has long denied the allegations.

Dahil nga dito, nag-desisyon ang kampo ni Sen. Leila de Lima na i-submit na for resolution talaga yung buong kaso na at pinapa-desisyunan na namin sa hukuman ang nasabing criminal case ni Sen. Leila de Lima, Tacardon said.

[Translation: Because of this, the camp of Sen. Leila de Lima decided to submit the entire case for resolution and we are now asking the court to decide on the said criminal case.]

Her lawyer also noted that they already submitted a petition for bail for the other case of De Lima.

RELATED: De Lima to again seek bail after key witness ends testimony
An image of a pizza. Getty

A pizza delivery man stopped a fleeing suspect in a police chase by sticking his foot out to trip him.

Tyler Morell was still holding a pizza when he successfully tripped a man running from the police.

The Pennsylvania police department hailed Morell as a hero, saying he "saved the day," WPVI reported.

A pizza delivery man offered some free service to Pennsylvania officers earlier this week by tripping a suspect they were chasing.

Tyler Morrell realized he was in the middle of a police chase while making pizza deliveries for Cocco's Pizza on Sunday afternoon, WPVI-TV reported.

"A car just came up doing like 75," Morrell told the outlet. "He beached on the side of this person's lawn and almost took out a couple of cars."

The Brookhaven Police Department said they were in pursuit of a stolen Kia at about 3:30 pm when the car, driven by a 17-year-old suspect, crashed on Preston Street in Middletown Township, according to WPVI.

Video from a doorbell camera shows Morrell walking from the door of a home where he was making a delivery back towards the street just as the suspect abandoned his vehicle and started to flee on foot.

"I started walking towards the road, but I couldn't do anything with my hands because I'm holding the pizza, so I just stuck my leg out," Morrell said.

The suspect tripped and fell, allowing police to catch up and apprehend him.

"He gave us the help we needed, by tripping him it gave us the time to catch up with the gentleman," Brookhaven Chief of Police Michael Vice said, per WPVI. "In this case, this guy ultimately saved the day."

In addition to the minor suspect, police said they also arrested a 19-year-old, who authorities allege to be the passenger in the stolen car, per WPVI.

"I am so sick of seeing crime go on, especially half a mile down the road," Morell told WPVI. "So if they needed a hand or a foot, I was there."

Story continues

Morell was hailed as a hero by police and still managed to deliver the pizza to customer Danielle Yeager, who said it was a "10 out of 10 delivery," WPVI reported.

"Special shoutout to our delivery driver Tyler, who assisted the Brookhaven police today, and STILL delivered the food unharmed!!" a post on Coccos Pizza Aston's Facebook page read.

Read the original article on Insider
By Gabriela Baczynska

BRUSSELS (Reuters) - Poland this month presented a proposal for a new set of sanctions against Russia for waging war against Ukraine, according to a document seen by Reuters on Tuesday, including a ban on pipeline oil and diamond imports.

The written proposal, which a diplomatic source said was delivered to the EU executive European Commission, marks an opening salvo in what is bound to be long and complex negotiations among the bloc's 27 countries.

All must agree to impose new sanctions. The bloc has already put in place ten rounds of punitive steps against Russia since Moscow's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February, 2022.

A senior EU official on Monday declined to comment on the possible timing for any new sanctions.

The EU's chief executive, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, has said previously an 11th package would focus on combating circumvention of existing restrictions, in particular for spare parts and equipment that Russia deploys on the battlefield against Ukraine.

Warsaw's proposal would stop Russian oil imports via the northern leg of the Druzhba pipeline going to Germany. It would end imports of Russian diamonds and natural gas, including LNG, and curb nuclear energy cooperation.

Germany and Lithuania are also for nuclear energy sanctions with leniency for those like Hungary and France who trade with Russia.

Hungary, which last week said it had agreed to modify its contract with Russia's Rosatom for the expansion of the Paks nuclear plant, has so far firmly opposed any sanctions on Russian nuclear energy.

Belgium, home to the world's biggest diamond trading hub Antwerp, has successfully lobbied against barring Russian imports so far.

Poland casts itself as a leading Russia hawk in the EU and an ardent supporter of Kyiv. But, worried about upsetting farmers ahead of a national election this year, Warsaw this week dealt a blow to Ukraine by banning its grain imports.

Hungary and Slovakia joined the ban, a matter envoys of all the 27 EU members are to discuss in the bloc's hub Brussels on Wednesday.

(Reporting by Gabriela Baczynska; Editing by Christina Fincher)
WARSAW (Reuters) - Poland has reached an agreement on restarting transit of Ukrainian grains through its territory as of Friday, Polish Agriculture Minister Robert Telus said on Tuesday, adding transits would be monitored and sealed.

Poland's Development Minister Waldemar Buda added a ban on imports of Ukrainian food products to Poland would remain in place.

Pressure has been mounting on Brussels to work out a European Union-wide solution after Warsaw and Budapest announced bans on some imports from Ukraine at the weekend, with other countries in eastern Europe saying they are also considering action.

Farmers say cheap imports from Ukraine, which has faced difficulties exporting by sea due to Russia's invasion, have lowered prices and reduced their sales.

In Poland, the issue has created a problem in an election year for the ruling nationalist Law and Justice (PiS) party that relies on rural areas for much of its support.

Ukraine had said its priority was to reopen transit through Poland.

"We managed to create such mechanisms that will ensure that not a single ton of grain will remain in Poland," Telus told journalists after two days of talks in Warsaw.

(Reporting by Anna Wlodarczak-Semczuk, Marek Strzelecki and Pawel Florkiewicz; Editing by Mark Potter)
By Pawel Florkiewicz, Marek Strzelecki and Anna Wlodarczak-Semczuk

WARSAW (Reuters) -Poland agreed on Tuesday to lift a ban on the transit of Ukrainian grain and food products, but Ukraine said a wartime deal allowing it to safely ship grain from Black Sea ports was still under threat.

Failure to resume exports into eastern European countries or secure an extension of the Black Sea grain deal would trap large amounts of grain in Ukraine, hitting its exports and causing further economic problems for Kyiv as it battles Russian troops.

European Union member states Poland, Hungary and Slovakia have imposed import bans to protect their markets from an influx of cheaper supply following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and Warsaw banned their transit through Poland at the weekend.

But Polish Agriculture Minister Robert Telus said a second day of talks in Warsaw had produced a breakthrough, with transit to be monitored and sealed. The deal will go into force at midnight on Friday, Development Minister Waldemar Buda said.

"We were forced to close the border because the EU had its eyes closed on large amounts of grain flowing into Poland, but at the same time we continued talks with Ukraine on how to enable transits, but with a guarantee grains would not be stuck in Poland, and we managed to find a solution," Telus told a news conference in Warsaw.

Ukrainian First Deputy Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko told the news conference she was confident Ukrainian exporters would respect the terms of the deal agreed with Poland.

It was not immediately clear how the other countries that have imposed import bans on Ukraine would react after the agreement in Warsaw, with Romania looking likely earlier on Tuesday to impose a similar ban.

Large quantities of Ukrainian grain have been trapped by bottlenecks in eastern and central Europe as low global prices and demand mean grain cannot easily be sold on.

The bottlenecks have reduced prices and hurt sales by local farmers, putting political pressure on governments in the region, particularly the Polish government before an election.

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The EU has criticised member states for putting individual bans in place, and EU envoys are set to discuss the measures on Wednesday, a senior EU official said.

Bulgaria has also been considering a ban. The Czech Republic has said it will not impose a ban on its own but wants an EU solution.

BLACK SEA GRAIN DEAL IN DOUBT

Ukraine, which relies on grain and food sales for a significant slice of its gross domestic product, also has concerns about the Black Sea Grain Initiative brokered between Moscow and Kyiv by Turkey and the United Nations last July.

The initiative, intended to alleviate global food shortages by allowing exports to resume from three ports that had been blockaded in Ukraine, is set to expire on May 18.

It is unclear whether it will be extended because Russia says a separate deal meant to ease its own agricultural and fertilizer exports has not been upheld.

"It is under threat of being halted and Russia has again blocked the inspection of ships," Svyrydenko told the news conference in Warsaw.

"It is extremely important for us to unblock transit, otherwise Ukraine will remain blocked. We cannot together with our partners give Russia the opportunity to take advantage of this situation," she said.

Russian news agency RIA said on Tuesday the inspections had restarted but a senior Ukrainian official told Reuters: "Nothing has been resolved."

U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric said there had been no ship inspections on Monday or Tuesday.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will discuss the Ukraine Black Sea grain export deal with U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in New York next week, Russia's U.N. envoy said on Tuesday.

(Reporting by Pawel Florkiewicz and Anna Koper in Warsaw, Luiza Ilie in Bucharest, Krisztina Than in Budapest, Pavel Polityuk in Kyiv, Humeyra Pamuk in Tokyo and Michelle Nichols at the United Nations, Writing by Timothy Heritage, Editing by Jason Neely, Sharon Singleton and Jonathan Oatis)
A Phoenix police car.

Police are investigating a fatal shooting that left one dead at a Budget Lodge motel in Phoenix on Monday.

According to police, officers responded to the area of Dunlap Avenue and Black Canyon Highway just before 3:30 p.m., after receiving an emergency call regarding a shooting in front of the motel room. Upon arrival, they located Elijah Johnson, 18, on the ground with a gunshot wound.

Responding fire crews transported Johnson to a local hospital, where he later died from his injuries, police said.

An investigation into the incident remained ongoing, as police have yet to identify or detain any suspects. Those with any information are urged to contact Phoenix police or Silent Witness at (480)-WITNESS if they wish to remain anonymous.

No other information had been released.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Man dead in Phoenix Budget Lodge motel shooting Monday
A missing girl who was last seen walking her dog in Boston has been found safe, police announced Tuesday.

Janell Escalona, 14, was reported missing from the area of 111 Atlantic Avenue after she left for a walk on Monday morning, according to the Boston Police Department.

The department announced that she had been found more than 24 hours after she was reported missing.

There were no additional details immediately available.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
Authorities are asking for the publics help after a woman allegedly abandoned a puppy on Monday afternoon.

Groveland Police say they responded to an area of Main Street around 3 p.m. for a report of an abandoned Australian Shepherd puppy. Responding officers say the dog had no apparent injuries and immediately began investigating.

Surveillance cameras showed a blonde woman driving a black Mazda SUV wearing a black Maine School of Law sweatshirt leaving the pup and fleeing the scene, according to authorities.

She is now being sought on suspicion of animal cruelty.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call police.

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




A mass shooting left four dead and injured at least 28 people at a Sweet 16 party in Dadeville, Alabama, on Saturday.

The four victims died of gunshot wounds, Tallapoosa County Coroner Mike Knox confirmed to PEOPLE. Corbin Dahmontrey Holston, 23, Philstavious Dowdell, 18, Marsiah Emmanuel Collins, 19 and Shaunkivia Nicole Smith, 17, all attended the party held at a dance studio.

The shooting occurred at around 10:30 p.m. and left dozens of other attendees injured, including some still in critical condition, according to The Associated Press.

Its really sad to see all the kids that were shot and the ones that are deceased, Keenan Cooper, the DJ at the party, told CNN.

Cooper added that most will probably be traumatized after being witnesses to the shooting.

My son was killed last night in #DadevilleAlabama his name is Marsiah COLLINS. He was accepted to LSU took a year off and was going to enter in the fall but now hes dead pic.twitter.com/hG5qhlK3yR  Martin Edward (@KardinalLaw) April 16, 2023

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency has yet to make an arrest. Police indicated they have strong leads but havent released information concerning a suspect or motive behind the shooting, CNN reported.

Dadevilles police chief and state officials asked anyone with pictures or information from the scene to bring it forward.

I cannot stress this enough: We absolutely need you to share it, Sgt. Jeremy J. Burkett of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency said, according to the news outlet.

The shooting is far from being an isolated incident. There have been over 160 mass shootings so far this year in the United States, according to the Gun Violence Archive. It defines mass shootings as incidents in which at least four people have been shot. The archive doesnt include other occurrences of gun violence, such as the recent shooting of Ralph Yarl, a Missouri teenager who rang the wrong doorbell.

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2 more Alabama Sweet 16 shooting victims identified https://t.co/splb1Z3hOe pic.twitter.com/kC4B1VzupD  New York Post (@nypost) April 17, 2023

President Joe Biden reiterated his call for gun control reform after the shooting.

Americans want lawmakers to act on common sense gun safety reforms, he tweeted on April 17. It is within Congress power to require safe storage of firearms, require background checks for all gun sales, eliminate gun manufacturers immunity from liability, and ban assault weapons and high-capacity magazinesand this should happen without delay, he added.
A portion of a Beaver County road was dedicated to fallen Army Sgt. Joshua Rimer over the weekend.

Part of Harvey Run Road in Freedom is now Army Sgt. Joshua James Rimer Memorial Road.

Rimer, a 2003 Freedom Area High School graduate, was killed in Afghanistan on July 22, 2009.

Throughout his time in the Army, Rimer earned a Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts.

Sgt. Rimer made the ultimate sacrifice while fighting to defend our freedom and in turn our community suffered a tremendous loss, said Sen. Elder Vogel. This road dedication is a great way to honor his name and highlight his dedication to our great nation. I wish his family and friends my deepest sympathies as they continue to heal from the loss of Sgt. Rimer.

Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW

TRENDING NOW:

Pittsburgh man charged for allegedly assauling priest at South Side monastery New charges filed against Butler County mechanic, 3 new victims come forward Duquesne University Police Department strikes after nearly 8 months of negotiations VIDEO: As locals celebrate Orthodox Easter in Allegheny County, thoughts remain with war-torn Ukraine DOWNLOAD the Channel 11 News app for breaking news alerts
New businesses live or die based on their ability to attract customers attention. Product development, branding, and homing in on a niche will only get a company so far. At a certain point, itll have to let people know it exists and do it invitingly, enticingly.

Thats what marketing is for  to inform people about a business and its services and products. While some enterprises spend untold money on marketing, others can rely on more cost-effective ways to announce their existence to potential customers.

Ive never promoted my company, says Hayes Thomas. People find us on Instagram or through word-of-mouth. And for a long time, its just been word-of-mouth.

Hayes Thomas is the founder and CEO of HCT Concierge, a membership-based luxury concierge service. Starting in 2014, Hayes Thomas developed and grew his business based on understanding the needs of his customer base and building relationships with them.

Crucial to his success, however, was word-of-mouth. Hayes Thomas became known as the person who could get people a table at an exclusive restaurant. From there, it went to people asking me about hotels, then cars, security services, even private planes, he recalls. And then it went from London-based venues and events to events in Los Angeles.

In the early days of HCT Concierge, Hayes Thomas reputation generated buzz around the company. Even though it wasnt a deliberate marketing strategy, HCT stumbled upon the holy grail of marketing  a practical promotional vessel that doesnt cost a pound to run.

The Power of Word-of-Mouth Marketing

Its no secret that traditional forms of advertising suffer from a severe problem  the people they address dont trust them. Survey after survey, the results show dismal consumer trust in advertising.

Research done by YouGov on behalf of Campaign shows that only 10% of British people trust advertising they see on social media. Eighteen percent trust ads on websites, and 29% trust ads they see on search engines.

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Traditional media ads fared better  54% said they trusted television ads, 53% said the same for radio ads, and 43% said it about advertisements in print publications. Still, if ads are distrusted by nearly half of all people at best, it indicates a sorry state of affairs.

The brilliance of using word-of-mouth in advertising is that it doesnt rely on ads, bypassing peoples whole issue with trusting ads. Instead, word-of-mouth is more like a recommendation from friends, family, or people we trust.

Word-of-mouth isnt without its problems, however. Its reach is much smaller than that of advertising, and it takes much more time to spread  even in the digital era. It can be challenging to track and measure, leading to limited feedback. It might also backfire in case of negative word-of-mouth.

For Hayes Thomas and HCT Concierge, however, the problem was the limitations word-of-mouth poses when trying to scale a business. Still, the company benefited greatly, especially in its earlier stages.

Key Takeaways from HCT Concierges Organic Word-of-Mouth

HCT Concierge used word-of-mouth marketing without relying on the hallmarks of word-of-mouth marketing strategies and all the digital tools. Instead, it relied on organic word-to-mouth, the kind one gets with happy customers. To get it, HCT Concierge had to do a couple of things right:

Know the customer and understand their needs. As a luxury concierge services provider, HCT and Hayes Thomas knew the customer had a significant disposable income and needed services to get the most out of their lifestyle.

Provide appropriate services without fault. HCT Concierge benefits its clients in various ways. It gets them access to sought-after events and services, provides savings through reduced pricing, offers access to exclusive events, and even offers reward points.

Be as convenient as possible. The premise of luxury concierge services is based on providing a convenient way for people to enjoy and manage their lifestyles. Program members dont have to jump through hoops to access HCTs services.

Keep innovating and improving. With the release of the HCT app, the company married its concierge and e-money services into a single app. Members can access the services, support, and e-money account without switching between apps.

HCT Concierge and Hayes Thomas reached the limits of word-of-mouth around the same time Hayes Thomas found that running the company on his own wasnt possible anymore. There were only so many people daily, creating a bottleneck that compromised the companys growth.

Since then, the companys taken on more staff, prepared the HCT app, and got ready for the next phase of its existence  scaling up and offering even more to its members. At the end of the day, its about doing a good job and knowing that youve made someones day, says Hayes Thomas. Thats the best part of it.

McClatchy newsroom and editorial staff were not involved in the creation of this content.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 18) Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang will head to the Philippines for an official visit later this week, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) confirmed on Tuesday.

In an advisory, the DFA said Qin will make the trip from April 21 to 23 upon the invitation of his counterpart, Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo.

The official visit continues the series of high-level interactions between the Philippines and China in 2023, following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.s state visit to China in early January, the department noted.

According to the DFA, Qin and Manalo are expected to tackle regional security issues concerning both nations.

The two will likewise discuss the implementation of deals reached from previous Philippine-China engagements  including during Marcos state visit to Beijing as well as the recently concluded Bilateral Consultations Mechanism on the South China Sea.

In particular, both sides will discuss increasing and strengthening cooperation in the fields of agriculture, trade, energy, infrastructure, and people-to-people relations, among others, the DFA added.

Qins visit will be his first official engagement with the Philippine government since his appointment as foreign minister and state councilor.

Both Manila and Beijing have previously agreed to find solutions  through diplomatic means  to settle issues and tensions over their overlapping claims in the disputed waterway.

READ: Maritime row with China a 'serious concern' for Filipinos  DFA
WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden paid $137,658 in federal income taxes in 2022 after reporting income of $579,514, according to their joint tax return released Tuesday to mark the federal tax-filing deadline.

That's an effective federal tax rate of 23.8%.

The bulk of their earnings came from Biden's $400,000 salary as president, while Jill Biden earned $82,355 from Northern Virginia Community College, where she teaches.

In addition to their salaries, the first couple reported $35,240 in pensions and annuities, as well as $5,092 from CelticCapri Corp. and Giacoppa Corp.  companies the Bidens created at the end of the Obama-Biden administration for their respective speaking and writing engagements.

CelticCapri, the company owned by the president for his engagements, has been dormant since 2020 and doesn't engage in any business other than to receive potential royalties, according to the White House.

President Joe Biden speaks Tuesday before signing an executive order related to child care and eldercare during an event in the Rose Garden of the White House.

The Bidens donated $20,180 to charities and churches, led by $5,000 to the Beau Biden Foundation. The first couple gave $2,000 to the Fraternal Order of Police Foundation and $1,680 to St. Joseph on the Brandywine, the Catholic Church they regularly attend in Wilmington, Delaware.

The Bidens paid $29,023 in state income tax to Delaware, while Jill Biden paid $3,139 in state income tax to Virginia.

Releasing the president's tax returns is a tradition that was broken during former President Donald Trump's four years in the White House.

With this year's release, the Bidens have made public 25 years of tax returns, according to the White House, the most of any past president while in office. This year's figures closely match the first couple's 2021 tax return, which reported the Bidens earned $610,702 and paid $150,439 in federal income taxes.

More: President Biden earned $610,710 in 2021, paid 25% in federal taxes, returns show

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Vice President Harris, Second Gentleman release tax returns

Vice President Kamala Harris and her husband Douglas Emhoff paid $93,570 in federal income tax on a federal adjusted gross income of $456,918, their return shows. Thats an effective tax rate of 20.5%.

The vice president and second gentleman also paid $17,612 in California income tax, and Emhoff paid $9,697 in District of Columbia income tax.

The couple contributed $23,000 to charity, including the University of Southern California, Howard University in Washington, the Legal Aid Society of DC and DC Central Kitchen, a jobs-training program that uses recycled food to fight hunger and poverty.

Harris's salary as vice president was $219,171.

Emhoff, who does not receive a salary as second gentleman, earned $169,665 from Georgetown University, where he teaches at the law school.

With Tuesdays release, Harris has made public 19 years of tax returns, the White House said.

Reach Joey Garrison on Twitter @joeygarrison and Michael Collins @mcollinsNEWS.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: President Joe Biden, VP Harris release 2022 tax returns
President Joe Biden has invited Ralph Yarl to visit the White House once the Kansas City teen recovers after being shot last week after he rang the wrong doorbell.

No parent should have to worry that their kid will be shot after ringing the wrong doorbell. Weve got to keep up the fight against gun violence, Biden said in a tweet Tuesday. And Ralph, well see you in the Oval once you feel better.

Biden spoke with Yarl and his family Monday evening as national outrage continues over the shooting.

Yarl, a Black 16-year-old Kansas City student, was allegedly shot by Andrew D. Lester, a white man, in the Northland after ringing the doorbell at the wrong house while picking up his brothers.

Clay County Prosecutor Zachary Thompson charged Lester on Monday with first-degree assault and armed criminal action. Lester surrendered to authorities Tuesday.

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters Tuesday that Bidens phone call with Yarl and his family was not unusual or uncommon for this president.

This is a president as we know, understands loss, understands the importance of making sure that hes a president that is there when a family is suffering and dealing with a hard time, Jean-Pierre said. And thats what you saw. This is a president having to deal with another shooting, talking to another family, about what theyre going through with their kid being shot, for ringing the wrong doorbell.

The press secretary stressed that she didnt want to say more about the incident while the case remains pending, but she and other White House officials have called for stronger gun regulation in the wake of the shooting.

We can fix this, Congress can fix this, Jean-Pierre said. They can take action today and deal with some real issues that were seeing to really deal with gun reform. And were not seeing that.

Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, a Kansas City Democrat, said he was pleased Biden called Yarl, calling it a stroke of genius.

Story continues

Thats kind of who Biden is, not to talk to parents we want to talk to the kid, Cleaver said.

Sen. Josh Hawley, a Missouri Republican, also praised the presidents decision to reach out to Yarl. Attorneys for Yarl said Biden offered prayers for Yarls health and justice.

While the shooting has sparked national condemnation and brought new scrutiny to Missouris gun laws, Missouri Gov. Mike Parson has remained silent on the incident.
UPDATE: President Joe Biden has invited Ralph Yarl to the White House when he recovers. Read more here.

President Joe Biden spoke with Ralph Yarl and his family on Monday amid a national outcry over the shooting of the 16-year-old Black high school student, a White House official confirmed.

Yarls attorneys, Ben Crump and Lee Merritt, said Biden offered prayers for Yarls health and justice. Yarl left the hospital on Monday and is recovering at home, after suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.

Gun violence against unarmed Black individuals must stop, the attorneys said. Our children should feel safe, not as though they are being hunted. While this is certainly a step in the right direction, we will continue to fight for Ralph while he works towards a full recovery.

The attorneys said Biden called just before Clay County Prosecutor Zachary Thompson announced he was charging 84-year-old Andrew D. Lester with first-degree assault and armed criminal action for allegedly shooting Yarl .

Yarls family said the high schooler mistakenly rang Lesters doorbell when going to pick up his twin brothers.

The Northland shooting has drawn national attention in a larger political discussion about gun laws and racism, as many expressed outrage over the delay in bringing charges against Lester, who is white.

Biden, who helped Congress pass an assault weapons ban when he was in the U.S. Senate, has been outspoken about his desire for stricter federal gun regulation. But so far, his calls have gone unheeded by Congress, where there is little appetite among Republicans for more restrictive policies.

Earlier on Monday, Vice President Kamala Harris offered her support for Yarl and his family.

Doug and I are praying for Ralph Yarl and his family as he fights for his life, Harris tweeted, referring to her husband, second gentlemen Doug Emhoff. Lets be clear: No child should ever live in fear of being shot for ringing the wrong doorbell.

Missouris Republican senators, Josh Hawley and Eric Schmitt, have not commented on the shooting as of Monday.
The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) has concluded that Wagner Group financier Yevgeny Prigozhin "is seemingly regaining some favour with Russian President Vladimir Putin".

Source: ISW report on 17 April 2023

Details: The ISW has reported that Prigozhin might have regained Putins favour as Russian armed forces are failing to fulfil Putins military objectives in the Donbas offensive, which supposedly began this past winter.

Wagner forces appear to receive reinforcements, ammunition, and political recognition, in contrast to the Kremlins earlier efforts to "expend" Wagner forces and Prigozhin in Bakhmut since at least January 2023.

On 17 April, Wagner-linked sources reported that the military company was training up to three motorised rifle brigades of mobilised military personnel to reinforce Wagner Group's flanks in Bakhmut.

Prigozhin also confirmed that Russian airborne forces are operating alongside Wagner and indicated that Wagner is actively receiving artillery shells.

ISW analysts remain unclear as to how much Putin trusts Prigozhin, but it is likely that he has put an end to the Russian Defence Ministrys attempts to take revenge on Wagner Group by refusing its requests for ammunition and reinforcements.

At the same time, the ISW said that the recent interview with two former Wagner fighters, in which they discuss their abuse of Ukrainian children, civilians and prisoners of war, underscored that systematic cruelty and violence were fundamental to how the Wagner Group operates.

ISW analysts believe that the "extremely graphic atrocities" described by the two fighters, Azamat Uldarov and Alexei Savichev, confirm a number of recent reports that Wagner Group systematically relies on violence as a method of waging war.

The ISW also points out that Prigozhin and Wagner commanders might be actively inciting violence and brutality "in an attempt to build social cohesion and reputation within Wagner units".

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Quote from the ISW: "This type of engrained violence is likely to have escalating domestic impacts on Russian domestic society, especially as Wagner fighters complete their contracts and return to their homes.

Russian society will have to increasingly work to handle the normalized brutality committed by its forces as they reintegrate into the domestic sphere, which will likely have generational domestic societal ramifications."

ISW Key Takeaways on 17 April:

Wagner Group financier Yevgeny Prigozhin is seemingly regaining some favour with Russian President Vladimir Putin likely as a result of the Russian conventional militarys inability to accomplish the tasks Putin had set for it during the winter offensive in Donbas. The extent of Putins trust and favour for Prigozhin is unclear at this time, but it is likely that Putin halted the Russian MoDs efforts to avenge Wagner by denying Wagner reinforcements and ammunition.

An interview with two former Wagner Group fighters on their treatment of Ukrainian children and other civilians and prisoners of war (POWs) further highlights how Wagner has institutionalised systematic brutality as part of its fundamental modus operandi.

The Gulagu.net interview with the two former Wagner fighters provides valuable insight into Wagners force structure and operational prioritisation.

The Moscow City Court sentenced Russian opposition activist Vladimir Kara-Murza to 25 years in prison on the charge of high treason for Kara-Murza's criticism of the Kremlin and the war in Ukraine.

Chinese Defense Minister Li Shangfu met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on April 16 and pledged to strengthen military exchanges and cooperation between Russia and China. Putin continued efforts to portray Russia as an equal defence partner with China and a Pacific naval power amidst Lis visit.

Former Russian officer and ardent nationalist Igor Girkins newly formed "Club of Angry Patriots" published its manifesto focused on protecting pro-war factions in the Kremlin from possible "sabotage" and "betrayal."

Russian forces conducted limited ground attacks northeast of Kupiansk and south of Kreminna.

Russian forces have made further gains in Bakhmut and continued ground attacks along the Avdiivka-Donetsk City line.

Russian forces continued defensive preparations in southern Ukraine.

The Kremlin's transition to electronic summonses distribution is continuing to complicate Russian conscription procedures.

Russian occupation authorities continue to discuss the provision of Russian passports in occupied areas of Ukraine.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
Andrew Lester, the suspect in the shooting of 16-year-old Ralph Yarl, has been released from custody after posting a $200,000 bond, authorities said.

Lester surrendered at the Clay County Detention Center on Tuesday and was released a few hours later after posting bond, the Clay County Sheriff's Office said.

Lester, an 84-year-old white man, was charged with one count of felony assault in the first degree and one count of armed criminal action, also a felony, Clay County prosecuting attorney Zachary Thompson said during a press conference Monday evening.

Ralph Yarl was shot Thursday night by a homeowner in Kansas City, Missouri, after he accidentally went to the wrong address to pick up his siblings, police said on Sunday.

"He knowingly caused physical injury to [Yarl] by shooting him," Thompson said, adding that the first count is a class A felony with a sentence of up to life in prison, while the second count is an unclassified felony and carries a range of punishment of 3-15 years in prison.

It is unclear if Lester has retained an attorney.

PHOTO: Ralph Yarl is shown smiling for a photo. (Courtesy of Ralph Yarl's Family)

PHOTO: This booking photo provided by the Kansas City Police Department shows Andrew Lester on April 13, 2023. (Kansas City Police Department via AP)

In his statement to police, Lester said he "had just laid down in bed when he heard the doorbell ring," according to the probable cause statement.

Lester told police he picked up his gun, a .32 Smith & Wesson 1888 revolver, and went to the front door, which consists of an interior main door and exterior glass storm door, both of which were locked, the statement reads.

"Lester stated he opened the interior door, and saw a black male approximately 6 feet tall pulling on the exterior storm door handle. He stated he believed someone was attempting to break into the house, and shot twice within a few seconds of opening the door," the statement reads.

Lester told police he had never seen the man before and that "no words were exchanged during the incident and the male had not said anything prior to pulling on the door handle," according to the probable cause statement.

Story continues

The suspect told police "it was the last thing he wanted to do, but he was 'scared to death' due to the male's size," his own age, and his "inability to defend himself," the statement reads.

Police conducted an informal cursory interview with Yarl at Children's Mercy Hospital on Friday, according to the probable cause statement. Yarl told police he parked in the driveway, went to the front door, "pressed the doorbell and waited outside the front door," the statement reads. Yarl told police the man inside "took a long time but finally opened the door holding a firearm," and then "he was immediately shot in the head and fell to the ground," according to the statement.

Yarl told police he got up and "ran away to keep from being shot," and that the man allegedly said "don't come around here," according to the probable cause statement.

Yarl told police he went to multiple residences to ask for help and tell people to call the police, the statement reads.

MORE: Family of teen shot after going to wrong house to pick up siblings demands justice

Attorney Lee Merritt, who represents the Yarl family along with attorney Ben Crump, told ABC News Live Prime anchor Linsey Davis in an interview Monday that the family is "relieved" that charges have been filed.

"Because of the national outpouring, because of the community of Missouri that stood up, because of all the national organizers and people who have lent their voice -- it seems that the prosecutors and law enforcement agencies on the ground are taking the case more seriously," Merritt said.

The case garnered national attention over the weekend, and the White House confirmed to ABC News that President Joe Biden spoke with the Yarl family on Monday.

"This evening, the president spoke by phone to Ralph Yarl and shared his hope for a swift recovery," the White House said Monday night.

"Ralph just got off the phone with the president of the United States today, who assured him that, you know, that he was and the rest of the nation was invested in justice for him," Merritt told ABC News.

PHOTO: Ralph Yarl is pictured in the hospital, where he is recovering from his injuries after being shot by a homeowner after mistakenly going to the wrong house. (Courtesy of Ralph Yarl's Family)

Ralph's aunt Faith Spoonmore told ABC News Live Prime in an interview Monday before charges were announced that Ralph was shot in the head through a glass door and then in the arm and suffered a traumatic brain injury and an injury in his arm.

"He is healing. We are taking it one day at a time," she said, adding that the shooting has also taken an emotional toll on the family.

The charges came after protests erupted in Kansas City over the weekend after Lester, who was unidentified at the time, was taken into custody and then released pending an investigation by the Kansas City Police Department.

"We understand how frustrating this has been," Thompson said. "But I can assure you that the criminal justice system is working and will continue to work. As with any serious case, we approached this one in an objective and impartial manner."

Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves said during a press conference Sunday evening that after the shooting, the suspect was taken into police custody and placed on a 24-hour investigative hold but had since been released while police investigate and present evidence to the prosecutor's office.

"After consulting with the Clay County Prosecutor's Office, the homeowner was released pending further investigation due to the need to obtain a formal statement from the victim, forensic evidence and compile additional information for a case file to be presented," Graves said on Sunday.

PHOTO: Ralph Yarl is pictured with a clarinet. (Courtesy of Ralph Yarl's Family)

PHOTO: Clay County Prosecuting Attorney Zachary Thompson announces charges against Andrew Lester, April 17, 2023, in Liberty, Mo. (Charlie Riedel/AP)

Police announced on Monday afternoon that they submitted the case to the Clay County Prosecutor's Office; prosecutors announced the charges two hours later.

Crump and Merritt said in a statement released Monday evening that the family is "extremely relieved that criminal charges are finally moving forward."

"'Justice delayed is justice denied.' We are relieved that charges are finally moving forward but are disappointed in the delay that necessitated national outcry for an obvious crime," Merritt said in a statement. "We are cautiously optimistic about accountability and justice."

Merritt said that Ralph was released from the hospital on Saturday and is in the care of his doctors at home. He said that the family now wants to "see this man held accountable to the full extent of the law."

"Despite of everything, we are grateful that he is alive because considering what he went through, I don't think the person who did this intended that he will be alive," Spoonmore told ABC News. "... We are upset, we are angry, but we also understand that it could have been much worse."

ABC News' Matt Foster, Justin Gomez and Darren Reynolds contributed to this report.

Ralph Yarl shooting suspect posts bond, released from custody: Sheriff's office originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Demonstrators take to Wilbeth Road near the site where Jayland Walker was shot and killed by Akron police last summer as they protest the grand jury's decision not to criminally charge the eight police officers.

In the hours following Monday's news that a grand jury had decided not to indict officers in last year's Akron police shooting of Jayland Walker, cars began descending on Wilbeth Road, the site of a memorial for Walker marking the approximate location of his death.

They were caravanning to the area from a gathering at St. Ashworth Temple Church of God in Christ on Vernon Odom Boulevard.

By nightfall, the street in front of the Bridgestone complex was blocked to traffic in both directions, with cars lining the road from Dallas Avenue almost all the way to South Main Street.

Music blasted from vehicles, occasionally drowned out by a cacophony of car horns. Many attendees loudly expressed their hatred of the police.

Eight Akron officers fatally shot Walker 46 times on June 27 after he led them on a crosstown car chase, during which police say the 25-year-old Black man fired a single shot from his vehicle. Walker was unarmed and running in a ski mask when he was shot after a short foot chase near Wilbeth and South Main. A handgun was found in his vehicle, police said.

Before the caravan of protesters arrived Monday, a number of demonstrators had already gathered on the sidewalk outside the Bridgestone building, eliciting supportive honks from passing cars.

Jayland Walker's name glows in candlelight Monday as demonstrators protest the grand jury's decision not to criminally charge the eight Akron police officers who shot and killed Walker last summer.

Akron residents communicate disgust and fear after grand jury decision

On the sidewalk, Toni Weems, bundled against the cold, recounted her astonishment at what she views as an unjust decision by the grand jury.

"I just stood there, thinking, 'Really? Out of 46 shots, it's OK?' It doesn't make sense. How can an officer shoot somebody when they're just running away?" said Weems.

Weems would like to see the police department change how officers address situations and people.

"They kind of intimidate people to make things happen, if you ask me. But if they can approach a person with a little more humanity  I mean this is a person; yeah, he may have done wrong, but try to see how he can fix that and do better," she said. Additionally, she believes a change in the laws governing police conduct is warranted.

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While Weems hopes protests in the city remain peaceful, she had little hope that it would make a difference if they do.

"Anything that we try to do  peaceful protest, talking to the councilmen and everything  nothing seems to change. Nothing," she said. Her prayers, she added, were with the Walker family.

Josh Sloan said he was shocked but unsurprised at the grand jury's decision.

"We've seen it over and over again," said Sloan. "It happens so often that there's no punishment, no penalty, and then it happens in another town."

A woman carries a portrait of Jayland Walker as she protests the grand jury's decision along with hooded demonstrators Monday in Akron.

The officers involved in the shooting should have been taken off the force following Walker's death, he said, and charged with manslaughter or murder.

In the coming days, Sloan said, he hopes he sees enough action by the community to force a change.

"Change means whatever it takes to stop police violence," said Sloan. "I'm upset, overwhelmed  there's definitely a lot of sadness." While he acknowledges the situation doesn't directly affect him, he still feels for his community that is now expressing its grief and anger.

"If I don't care, that's selfish," Sloan said.

Motorists block traffic on Wilbeth Road on Monday as they protest the grand jury's decision not to charge Akron police officers in the June 27 shooting death of Jayland Walker.

Protesters also walked or drove vehicles elsewhere in downtown Akron and the Highland Square neighborhood, prompting the police department to close Main Street in both directions between Mill and State streets and urge people to avoid the area.

Raina Lasley, who was among the protesters near the Bridgestone complex, said she was disgusted by the news that the officers were not charged by the grand jury, and frightened by it. In her opinion the grand jury let the officers get away with murder.

"Now everybody is going to be afraid for their lives," said Lasley.

She hopes the community will remain steadfast.

"We can't just let this go or it's going to keep happening," Lasley said.

Contact reporter Derek Kreider at DKreider@Gannett.com

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Protesters gather at site of Akron police shooting of Jayland Walker
PROVIDENCE  Timothy Desjardins is wanted in court in Washington, D.C.

The FBI has accused Desjardins, 35, of repeatedly assaulting police officers with a wooden table leg during the U.S. Capitol riot on Jan. 6, 2021.

But the Providence man still has criminal matters to clear up in Rhode Island.

During a hearing Monday in Superior Court, Providence, Judge Robert D. Krause made arrangements for Desjardins to serve prison time for crimes that date back to the fall of 2021, according to lawyers.

Desjardins' lawyer, Pamela E. Chin, said Krause had formulated a sentence for Desjardins on Monday but that he also issued a stay in the matter.

The result is that Desjardins will formally receive the sentence early next week, she said.

An image that the FBI says shows Timothy Desjardins, 35, of Providence, outside the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

Chin commented on the situation during a proceeding Tuesday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Lincoln Almond.

Almond was told that Desjardins already knows he must serve an 18-year prison term for offenses that took place in Providence well after the riot at the U.S. Capitol.

Desjardins was accused of drawing a gun during a dispute with a man in the parking lot of Walgreens on Sept. 26, 2021, and firing a shot that grazed the man's head.

In November 2021, he was accused of engaging in an armed standoff with police at the We the People Barbershop he had operated at 374 Atwells Ave.

Almond heard from Chin and Assistant U.S. Attorney Lee H. Vilker on Tuesday for a hearing requested by federal authorities.

Almond was asked to issue an order for Desjardins' removal from Rhode Island and transfer to Washington, D.C. for prosecution in the riot case.

Almond issued the order.

Vicker asked Almond to keep Desjardins in federal custody, but at the Adult Correctional Institutions in Cranston, through Monday's proceeding.

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Rhode Islander accused in Jan 6 riot bound for Washington, D.C.
A Poudre School District middle school teacher was arrested this weekend after a former student told law enforcement the teacher sexually abused him while he was a student in 2002.

A former student from Cache la Poudre Junior High  now named Cache la Poudre Middle School  made a report to law enforcement in January that one of his former teachers sexually abused him twice while he attended school there about 20 years ago, the sheriff's office said in a news release.

As a result of the investigation, the Larimer County Sheriff's Office arrested Robert Denise, 59, on Sunday. Denise has been charged with two counts of sexual assault on a child in a position of trust, a Class 3 felony.

Denise has been a teacher at Cache la Poudre Middle School since 1995, and that's the only job he's had while working for Poudre School District, according to district spokesperson Emily Shockley. In 1995, the school taught students in grades 7 through 9.

Robert Denise

Denise had most recently been teaching social studies at the middle school before being placed on paid administrative leave in February, when the sheriff's office began their investigation, principal Alicia Bono told families in an email Monday.

Denise was released from jail Monday after posting his $1,000 cash bond, according to online court records.

Because of the charges alleged and the man's job, law enforcement said it's possible there could be multiple victims. Anyone with information can contact investigator Ryan Gebhardt at 970-498-5586. Anonymous tips can be shared through Crime Stoppers at Larimer County at 970-221-6868 or www.stopcriminals.org.

All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in court. Arrests and charges are merely accusations by law enforcement until, and unless, a suspect is convicted of a crime.

Resources for students, families

In the email to families Monday, Bono said the district's mental health team will rotate through the school's classrooms to speak with students. Families were also given instructions on how to contact the front office if their student needs support.

Story continues

The school and the sheriff's office also shared information about the following resources available for all community members:

Child, Adolescent and Young Adult Connections (CAYAC): 970-221-3308

ChildSafe: childsafecolorado.org or 970-472-4133

Connections - Adult Services: 970-221-5551

Crawford Child Advocacy Center: crawfordcac.org or 970-407-9739

I Matter Colorado (up to six free, virtual counseling sessions): imattercolorado.org or yoimportocolorado.org for services in Spanish

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (free and confidential support 24/7): 988 (text or call); get help in Spanish: 988lifeline.org/help-yourself/en-espanol

Sexual Assault Victims Advocate (SAVA) Center: 970-472-4204

SummitStone Health Partners Community Crisis Center: 970-494-4200

This article originally appeared on Fort Collins Coloradoan: Poudre School District teacher arrested in sex abuse case from 2002
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met troops in a frontline town Tuesday, a day after Russian leader Vladimir Putin visited occupied zones as Kyiv builds up to an expected counteroffensive.

While 45-year-old Zelensky spoke with soldiers in the heavily bombarded town of Avdiivka in eastern Ukraine, the Kremlin's footage showed Putin, 70, visiting the pro-Western country's occupied territory in the south and east, under a veil of secrecy.

Mykhailo Podolyak, an advisor to Zelensky, called Putin's trip "a 'special tour' of the mass murders' author", adding he went to Ukraine's occupied territories "to enjoy the crimes of his minions for the last time".

Putin's visit came as China's Defence Minister Li Shangfu was in Moscow to demonstrate what he called Beijing's "determination" to stronger Russia ties.

Moscow has been seeking allies to confront the West as its war in Ukraine causes immense destruction and suffering but is far from Putin's goal of capturing control of the country.

Zelensky went to Avdiivka, located close to Russian-controlled city of Donetsk, and thanked troops for their service, his office said.

A video also showed Zelensky standing outside with soldiers in the heavily bombarded town, apparently not wearing protective gear.

"I have the honour to be here today, to thank you for your service, for defending our land, Ukraine, our families," Zelensky told the soldiers.

- Putin visits occupied territory -

Putin visited the partly Russian-occupied Kherson and Lugansk regions and heard reports from top commanders on Monday, and the Kremlin made the trips public a day after it happened.

Moscow portrayed the trip as a marker of its control in occupied Ukraine, but Russia does not fully hold those areas despite claiming them after a widely-condemned annexation last year.

The Kremlin released footage showing Putin disembarking from a helicopter as he visited the headquarters of the Dnieper army group and met military commanders. He also visited national guard headquarters in Lugansk in eastern Ukraine.

Story continues

"It's important for me to hear your opinion on the situation, to listen to you and to exchange information," Putin said.

The Kremlin said in March that Putin had also made a surprise trip to the port city of Mariupol, which Moscow captured after a long siege last spring.

"The president is now visiting the new regions more and more often," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

After Putin's visit was made public, Ukrainian officials said Russian forces had shelled the centre of the city of Kherson, killing one person and injuring nine.

Last week a Russian strike on a block of flats in the eastern Ukrainian city of Sloviansk killed 15, including a two-year-old boy, and wounded 24.

According to video footage released by the Kremlin, neither Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu nor Russia's top commander in Ukraine, Valery Gerasimov, accompanied the president.

During his trip to Ukraine, Putin heard reports from Mikhail Teplinsky, commander of Russia's airborne troops, and Colonel-General Alexander Lapin.

- 'No houses left' -

British military intelligence said on Tuesday that "heavy fighting" continued along the Donbas front line in eastern Ukraine and Russia's regular troops and forces from the Wagner mercenary outfit continued to make "creeping advances" in Bakhmut.

Much of the fighting is now concentrated around the eastern town of Bakhmut which has become the longest and bloodiest battle of the conflict.

Several kilometres to the west, in the village of Druzhkivka, military engineers tasked with clearing mines to make way for Ukrainian troops in Bakhmut told AFP the fight was becoming more and more precarious.

"The city looks more like ruins. There are almost no whole houses left. It's practically wiped out," said Denis, a 20-year-old military engineer from western Ukraine.

Pavel, a 33-year-old sapper from the same unit, said Russian troops were throwing forces at the fight, apparently caring little for their losses.

"More than once we have seen them jump out of cover and begin to run. They get killed, they gather their strength and do it again," he told AFP.

The commander of Ukrainian ground forces, Oleksandr Syrskyi, said Russian troops were not abandoning their goal of taking control of Bakhmut "at any cost," ramping up the use of heavy artillery and air strikes.

bur-as-jbr-am/as/jmm
The Orthodox icon is supposed to be a copy of an ancient Russian icon that belonged to one of the most successful defence ministers of the Russian empire, said Vladimir Putin - KREMLIN RU/HANDOUT HANDOUT/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

Vladimir Putin has visited the occupied Kherson region for the first time in over a year of the war in Ukraine, amid reports of a possible Russian retreat.

The Kremlin on Tuesday published undated footage and photographs of the Russian president visiting the headquarters of his forces in the Kherson region, as well as in Luhansk.

The sparse scenes in the videos made it difficult to identify the location or even the date of the visit, but Mr Putins slip about the upcoming Easter suggests he was probably there last week, before Russian Orthodox Easter last Sunday.

Mr Putin, in a sign of support for the much-criticised Russian generals, met top Russian commanders, including General Alexandr Lapin, who has been a frequent subject of verbal attacks by Wagner owner Yevgeny Prigozhin and his supporters.

The Kremlin did not release any substantial details of what Mr Putin said during the trip, apart from greetings and introductions.

In the only televised episode that showed off-script remarks, the Russian leader was seen pulling out an Orthodox icon from a lavish case and presenting it to the commanders of Russias Dnieper Group of Forces in a clear bid to portray the invasion of Ukraine as a holy war for Russias survival.

The icon is supposed to be a copy of an ancient Russian icon that belonged to one of the most successful defence ministers of the Russian empire, Mr Putin said, without naming him.

The Russian presidents secretive trip came as Volodymyr Zelensky thanked troops for their service in a city close to the front line in Donetsk.

A video also showed Mr Zelensky standing outside with soldiers in the heavily bombarded town of Avdiivka, apparently not wearing protective gear.

I have the honour to be here today, to thank you for your service, for defending our land, Ukraine, our families, he told the soldiers.

Ukrainian authorities said on Tuesday they are seeing signs that Russian troops might be preparing to pull out of the area after an embarrassing surrender of the regional capital of Kherson last November.

Story continues

Goodwill gesture

They are definitely getting ready for the next goodwill gesture, Nataliya Gumenyuk, a spokeswoman for Ukrainian forces in the south, told public television on Tuesday, in reference to Russias retreat from Kherson, which the Russian military called a goodwill gesture at the time.

As in the weeks before the surrender of Kherson, Russian occupation authorities have been seen collecting, packing up and shipping various belongings to their homeland, according to Ms Gumenyuk.

But Ukrainian authorities are not expecting an immediate withdrawal, she said, adding that Russian troops have been shoring up their defences and laying mines on the shoreline to ward off Ukrainian attacks.

A few weeks before Mr Putins visit, authorities in Kherson had been busy building lines of fortifications in preparation for an apparent Ukrainian counter-offensive.

Satellite images released in recent months showed an intricate web of trenches and dragon teeth fortifications all over the Russian-occupied south of Ukraine in a clear sign that the forces view the much-anticipated Ukrainian counter-offensive as inevitable.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 13)  Secure the safety of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) amid ongoing tension between China and Taiwan, President Ferdinand Marcos directed the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).

"He (Marcos) has given the general order na always watch out for the safety and welfare of all OFWs, including in Taiwan," Jose de Vega, DFA Undersecretary for Migrant Workers Affairs, said Tuesday during the Laging Handa briefing.

Echoing the president, De Vega also said the Philippines is a peaceful country that has no intent to carry out "offensive military actions."

"There is no need for anyone to make a statement, which would make it appear our OFWs are being targeted, he added.

The government has not received reports of OFWs wanting to return home or expressing distress over the ongoing tension between China and Taiwan, according to De Vega.

He added that a contingency plan is in place should hostilities arise.

Yung Manila Economic and Culture Office sa Taipei and Kaohsiung, they are in touch with Filipino community leaders, at lahat ng employers kailangan may plano para sa kanyang manggagawa in case magkaroon ng hostilities, De Vega said.

[Translation: The Manila Economic and Culture Office (MECO) in Taipei and Kaohsiung are in touch with Filipino community leaders, and employers are required to have plans for their workers in case hostilities break out.]

The MECO is the Philippines' de facto embassy in self-governing Taiwan in the absence of diplomatic ties between Manila and Taipei. Its functions, however, are non-political and non-security in nature in keeping with the One-China policy that recognizes the Peoples Republic of China as the sole legitimate government of China.

Earlier, a lawmaker condemned Chinas threat against the safety of OFWs.

China seems to be issuing a threat not just against the Philippines as a country but to innocent OFWs who were obligated to work abroad to create better lives for their families, Alliance of Concerned Teachers Rep. France Castro.

READ: Solon condemns Chinas threat vs. OFWs in Taiwan

During his speech Last April 14, Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian said China is the last country that wishes to see conflict over the Taiwan Strait."

"But we will not renounce the use of force, and we reserve the option of taking all necessary measures," he added.

RELATED: China tells PH to oppose Taiwan independence, warns anew vs. EDCA sites
Russian President Vladimir Putin meets with Chinese Defence Minister Li Shangfu at the Kremlin in Moscow on April 16, 2023. PAVEL BEDNYAKOV/SPUTNIK/AFP via Getty Images

A Chinese defense official sanctioned by the US visited Moscow Sunday.

The visit by Gen. Li Shangfu suggests Beijing continues to back Russia amid the Ukraine war.

China claims to be neutral, but fears are growing that Beijing will back Russia with lethal aid.

At a meeting in Moscow over the weekend, China signalled its unyielding support for Russian President Vladimir Putin and his brutal invasion of Ukraine.

Defense minister Gen. Li Shangfu met with Putin and Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu Sunday during a three-day trip to the Kremlin, Russian state media agency TASS reported.

Putin said the meeting cemented new military cooperation between the countries  ominous words that will likely be met with anxiety in Kyiv amid US warnings that China is considering providing lethal aid to Russia.

The decision to host Li itself appears to be a middle finger to the US, which in 2018 sanctioned the Chinese official over dealings he had with Rosoboronexport, the Russian state-owned arms exporter.

An alliance to win the Ukraine war

China's intervention could help tip the balance in the conflict, where both sides in recent months have made little progress.

Putin said that the two world powers were "regularly exchange useful information, cooperate in the field of military-technical cooperation, conduct joint exercises," according to the AFP.

"This is, undoubtedly, another important area that strengthens the exclusively trusting, strategic nature of our relations," he added.

Li added that ties between the nations were stronger than they were during the Cold War. "They are very stable," Li said after the meeting, according to the AFP.

China last week reiterated that it would not be providing military aide to either side in the war, and Li on Sunday made no mention of China stepping over the red line and providing lethal weapons.

But leaked Pentagon documents last week claimed that China had already agreed to provide lethal aid to Russia, as long as it was able to do so secretly, according to The Washington Post.

Story continues

A Ukrainian official told Reuters on Friday said that Chinese components had been found in Russian weapons and in Ukraine. Sunday's meeting will do little to allay concerns that China could be poised to intensify its support for the Kremlin.

Denting America's grip on the world

China has been Russia's most important international partner in the wake of its invasion of Ukraine, providing sweeping diplomatic and economic support to the Kremlin.

It has claimed to be neutral in the conflict, even proposing a 12-point peace plan. But it has refused to criticize Russian aggression and made no efforts to broker discussions with Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Analysts believe that China's President Xi Jinping sees the Ukraine war as an opportunity to dent the global power of the US, China's chief geopolitical rival and Ukraine's most important ally in resisting Russian aggression.

"The visit of China's defense minister with Vladimir Putin in Moscow is just the latest moment in a flurry of Russia-China coordination to jointly confront the democracies in Europe and Asia in their attempt to dismantle the rules-based order," Jonathan Ward, founder of the Atlas Organization, told Insider.

In recent weeks European leaders have visited China in the apparent hope that they can persuade Xi to use his leverage to get Putin to back down in Ukraine.

But Ward told Insider that Li's visit signalled that China would remain adamant in its support of Russia.

"A meeting of this kind is likely to be an assessment of their geopolitical coordination in Europe and Asia as well as the present and future direction of military cooperation," he said. "Li has been clear on this visit in his declaration of the importance of Russia-China strategic cooperation, and this should dispel any further illusions about the nature of the Russia-China axis in the capitals of Europe and Asia, or in the boardrooms of Western companies that continue to do business in either China or Russia."

The meeting between Li and Putin comes weeks after Putin hosted China's President Xi Jinping in Moscow, where the two renewed their "no limits" cooperation pact. Shortly after, China's top diplomat Wang Yi made the trip to Moscow.

Not everyone is convinced this is Xi's ultimate plan. Some believe that China may step back from providing Russia with military aid, as doing so would risk cutting it off from access to the advanced economies in the West it needs to fuel its growth.

What is clear, however, is that Xi's next move could determine the fate of Russia and its war with Ukraine.

Read the original article on Business Insider
KYIV, Ukraine (AP)  Russian President Vladimir Putin visited command posts of his forces fighting in Ukraine for the second time in two months, officials said Tuesday, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made his latest trip near the front line.

The visits  on different days and in different provinces  sought to stiffen the resolve of soldiers as the war approaches its 14th month and as Kyiv readies a possible counteroffensive with Western-supplied weapons.

Some of the most significant of those weapons appeared to have recently arrived in Ukraine. Germany's official federal government website on Tuesday listed a Patriot surface-to-air guided missile system as among the military items delivered within the past week to Ukraine.

Ukraine has been pressing for Patriots and other air defense systems from its allies for months, and Germany's appeared to be the first to have arrived. Ukrainian air force spokesman Yurii Ihnat declined to confirm Tuesday that a Patriot is in Ukraine, local media outlet RBC-Ukraine reported, while stating that receiving the missiles would be a landmark event, allowing Ukrainians to knock down Russian targets at a greater distance.

Elsewhere, Kremlin video showed Putin arriving by helicopter at the command post of Russian forces in southern Ukraine's Kherson province, then flying to the headquarters of the Russian National Guard in Luhansk province, in the country's east. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the visits took place Monday.

Dressed in a dark suit, Putin attended briefings with his military brass on both of his stops. The locations of the military headquarters werent disclosed, making it impossible to assess how close they were to the front line. Nor was it possible independently to verify the video's authenticity.

On Tuesday, Zelenskyy made his latest trip to visit units in Avdiivka, an eastern city in Donetsk province where fierce battles are taking place. He heard first-hand reports about fighting and handed out awards.

Story continues

Zelenskyys visits to areas feeling the brunt of Russias full-scale invasion gathered pace last month as he shuttled across the country, often by train. As with Putin, the Ukrainian president's wartime trips usually arent publicized until afterward.

While official coverage of Putin's trip showed him in mostly formal and ceremonious settings, Zelenskyy's office issued photos showing the Ukrainian president taking selfies with soldiers, eating cake with them and drinking out of paper cups.

Russias war in Ukraine has become largely deadlocked, with heavy fighting in the east, particularly around the Donestk province city of Bakhmut, which for 8 months has seen the longest and bloodiest battle so far.

Russia illegally annexed Kherson, Luhansk, Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia provinces in September, following local referendums that Ukraine and the West denounced as shams. Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak was scathing in his criticism of Putins trip, accusing him of degradation and being the author of mass murders in the war.

Large parts of Donetsk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia, as well as some areas of Luhansk province, have remained under Ukrainian control. In November, Russian forces ceded territory in Kherson province, including the regions namesake capital.

In a related development, the Moscow-appointed governor of the occupied part of Donetsk province, Denis Pushilin, went to the Belarus capital of Minsk and won pledges of support from President Alexander Lukashenko, a Putin ally.

The Kremlin forces Minsk to get involved in the war more actively in order to pressure Ukraine, Belarusian political analyst Valery Karbalevich said in a telephone interview. It is clear that Pushilins visit to Minsk has been synchronized with Putins trip to the occupied Ukrainian regions and aims to show that the Belarusian threat hasnt gone away.

During his visits, Putin congratulated the military divisions on Orthodox Easter, which was celebrated Sunday, and presented them with icons. Speaking to senior officers at the Kherson headquarters, Putin handed them a copy of an Orthodox icon he said belonged to a 19th century Russian general.

The senior officers present at the meetings reflected which ones were currently in favor with Putin. Col. Gen. Mikhail Teplinsky, the chief of Russia's airborne troops, was among the top generals at the Kherson base.

Teplinsky, a career officer who rose from lieutenant to become chief of the elite military branch, is known for being popular with his troops. Last fall, however, he was temporarily relieved of his position amid a spat with the military brass. He was restored to the job this year, and his meeting with Putin indicated he was back in favor.

A senior officer who greeted Putin in the Luhansk region, Col. Gen. Alexander Lapin, also was relieved of his duties as commanding officer in northeastern Ukraine after he was blamed for a hasty Russian pullback from parts of Kharkiv province in the face of a Ukrainian counteroffensive in September. Lapin was later named as chief of staff of the ground forces, and his meeting with Putin signaled he had the presidents trust.

Putins and Pushilin's trips came as Ukraine is preparing a new counteroffensive to reclaim occupied territories, possibly using the newly arrived Patriot.

In addition to Germany, the United States and Netherlands have pledged to provide Patriots, and a group of 65 Ukrainian soldiers trained in Oklahoma last month on how to use them.

The Patriot is a surface-to-air guided missile system first deployed in the 1980s that can target aircraft, cruise missiles and shorter-range ballistic missiles. A Patriot missile battery typically includes six mobile launchers, a mobile radar, a power generator and an engagement control center. Zelenskyy has said Ukraine needs at least 20 Patriot batteries.

Ukrainian officials have said theyre depleting Russian forces in eastern Ukraine while preparing for a counteroffensive.

Meanwhile, at least three civilians were killed and 11 wounded in Ukraine between Monday and Tuesday, according to Zelenskyy's office. Most of the casualties occurred in the Donbas, the eastern region made up of Luhansk and Donetsk provinces, the office said. Six people were wounded in artillery fire in the city of Kherson.

In another in a series of possible cross-border attacks into Russia, a drone a Russian official said was sent from Ukraine hit a military office in the Bryansk town of Novozybkov. Gov. Alexander Bogomaz said on Telegram that the building was damaged and no one was hurt. Ukrainian officials, in keeping with past practice, didn't comment on the incident.

___

Associated Press Writer Yuras Karmanau in Tallinn, Estonia, and Hanna Arhirova in Kyiv contributed.

___

Follow the APs coverage of the war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine
KYIV, Ukraine  Russian President Vladimir Putin visited command posts of his forces fighting in Ukraine for the second time in two months, officials said Tuesday, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made his latest trip to positions near the front line.

The visits  on different days and in different provinces  sought to stiffen the resolve of soldiers as the war approaches its 14th month and as Kyiv readies a possible counteroffensive with Western-supplied weapons.

Kremlin video broadcast by Russian state television showed Putin arriving by helicopter at the command post of Russian forces in southern Ukraines Kherson province and then flying to the headquarters of the Russian National Guard in Luhansk province, which is in the countrys east. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the visits took place Monday.

Dressed in a dark suit, Putin attended briefings with his military brass in both of his stops. The locations of the military headquarters werent disclosed, making it impossible to assess how close they were to the front line. Nor was it possible to independently verify the authenticity of the video.

On Tuesday, Zelenskyy made his latest trip to visit units in Avdiivka, an eastern city in Donetsk province where fierce battles are taking place, his office said. He heard first-hand reports about fighting and handed out awards.

In this photo provided by the Ukrainian Presidential Press Office, Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy talks with a commander at a position in Avdiivka, Donetsk region, Ukraine, Tuesday, April 18, 2023. (Ukrainian Presidential Press Office via AP)

Zelenskyys visits to areas feeling the brunt of Russias full-scale invasion gathered pace last month as he shuttled across the country, often by train. As with Putin, the Ukrainians wartime trips usually arent publicized until after hes already left an area.

While official coverage of Putins trip showed him in mostly formal and ceremonious settings, photographs issued by Zelenskyys office showed the Ukrainian president taking selfies with soldiers, eating cake with them and drinking out of paper cups.

Russias war in Ukraine has become largely deadlocked amid heavy fighting in the east, particularly around the Donestk province city of Bakhmut, which for 8 months has seen the longest and bloodiest battle so far.

Story continues

Kherson, Luhansk, Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia provinces were annexed illegally by Russia in September, following local referendums that Ukraine and the West denounced as shams. Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak was scathing in his criticism of Putins trip, accusing him of degradation and being the author of mass murders in the war.

Both then and now, large parts of Donetsk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia, as well as some areas of Luhansk province, have remained under Ukrainian control. In November, Russian forces ceded territory in Kherson province, including the regions namesake capital.

In a related development, the Moscow-appointed governor of the occupied part of Donetsk province, Denis Pushilin, went to the Belarus capital of Minsk and won pledges of support from President Alexander Lukashenko, a Putin ally.

Analysts said Pushilins visit was likely approved by the Kremlin and sought to remind Kyiv about the possibility of Belarus joining Russia in the war.

The Kremlin forces Minsk to get involved in the war more actively in order to pressure Ukraine with threats of Belarus joining, Belarusian political analyst Valery Karbalevich said in a telephone interview. It is clear that Pushilins visit to Minsk has been synchronized with Putins trip to the occupied Ukrainian regions and aims to show that the Belarusian threat hasnt gone away.

During his visits, Putin congratulated the military divisions on Orthodox Easter, which was celebrated Sunday, and presented them with icons. Speaking to senior officers at the Kherson headquarters, Putin handed them a copy of an Orthodox icon he said belonged to a19th century Russian general.

The senior officers present at the meetings reflected which ones were currently in favor with Putin. Col. Gen. Mikhail Teplinsky, the chief of Russias airborne troops, was among the top generals at the Kherson base.

Teplinsky, a career officer who rose from lieutenant to become chief of the elite military branch, is known for being popular with his troops. Last fall, however, he was temporarily relieved of his position amid a spat with the military brass. He was restored to the job this year, and his meeting with Putin indicated he was back in favor.

A senior officer who greeted Putin in the Luhansk region, Col. Gen. Alexander Lapin, also was relieved of his duties as commanding officer in northeastern Ukraine after he was blamed for a hasty Russian pullback from parts of Kharkiv province in the face of a Ukrainian counteroffensive in September. Lapin was later named as chief of staff of the ground forces, and his meeting with Putin signaled he had the presidents trust.

Putins trips came as Ukraine is preparing a new counteroffensive to reclaim occupied territories. Last month, he visited the Russian-held port of Mariupol on the Sea of Azov. The city was captured by Russian troops in May 2022 after two months of fierce fighting.

Ukrainian officials have said theyre depleting Russian forces in eastern Ukraine while preparing for a counteroffensive. Zelenskyy has argued that if Russia seizes Bakhmut, it could allow Putin to begin building international support for a deal requiring Ukraine to make compromises to end the war.

Oleksiy Danilov, the secretary of Ukraines National Security and Defense Council, told The Associated Press that Ukraines allies were helping the government assemble the materiel needed for a counteroffensive, including heavy armored vehicles and ammunition.

Meanwhile, at least three civilians were killed and 11 wounded in Ukraine between Monday and Tuesday, according to Zelenskyys office. Most of the casualties occurred in the Donbas, the eastern region made up of Luhansk and Donetsk provinces, the office said. Six people were wounded in artillery fire in the city of Kherson.

Associated Press Writer Yuras Karmanau in Tallinn, Estonia, contributed.
Dr. Raynard Washingtons start date with Mecklenburg Countys health department lined up almost perfectly with the arrival of COVID-19.

The epidemiologist joined Mecklenburg Countys health department in March 2020, just five days after the U.S. formally declared COVID-19 a pandemic and four days after the county reported its first case. Though he didnt anticipate a pandemic when he applied for the job, hes spent every day since then thinking about it, sometimes working 12-hour days and weeks without breaks.

The hours paid off, Washington said. If he had to give the county a letter grade on its emergency response over the past three years, he said hed give it an A-plus.

Mecklenburg County received more than $255 million in federal COVID relief dollars. In this Q&A with The Charlotte Observer, Washington talked about Mecklenburgs response to COVID-19, what will happen to temporary employees funded with that money and how the county is prepared for the next crisis.

This interview has been edited for brevity and clarity.

Mecklenburg County Public Health Director Dr. Raynard Washington on Wednesday, January 19, 2022.

Charlotte Observer: You joined the county as health director in the middle of the pandemic, correct?

Dr. Raynard Washington: I came to the county on March the 16th of 2020. I was previously in the city of Philadelphia. Im an epidemiologist by training, and I was their chief epidemiologist.

When I first joined Mecklenburg, I was a deputy health director, which is I guess you can say second in command in our department. And then Gibbie (Harris) retired in December of 2021 and I became health director. So when I took over as health director, obviously we still today are still dealing with COVID stuff, but it was at a different time, I think at the first couple years of the response.

CO: When you had federal money coming in, what were the priorities that you knew needed funding right away?

RW: Mecklenburg County took early action as a local government in terms of our immediate pandemic response to ensure that we protected the health and safety of our employees and our clients by moving to a virtual environment.

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Before we got our first case, we activated the Emergency Operation Center, an opportunity for us to set up an incident command structure that brings to the table all the critical players who may have a role in the response activities.

What emergency management does is brings together all the stakeholders of law enforcement emergency response teams, Medic, fire, social service agencies, community volunteers, and it is a coordinating entity for all response activities as well as communications.

We did start to see our pandemic response funding come down and there was also an understanding that theres going to be some level of reimbursement from the (Federal Emergency Management Agency).

We were also at the same time mobilizing our response activities. We have the communicable disease team thats made up of nurses who already everyday track and monitor the 85-plus communicable diseases that were responsible for tracking and tracing in our community. At that time, nobody knew what contact tracing was, but its a thing that we do every day for a lot of conditions.

With a novel illness that we didnt know a lot about, as we were learning from our partners at the state and federal government, we were working to mobilize very quickly to be able to adopt the necessary protocols.

The first couple of months we were essentially just reassigning existing resources within the health department to be able to respond to the activities as well as working to stand up an isolation facility to ensure that we had space for individual residents who didnt have a place to isolate.

So thats when we began to issue the lease agreement with the hotel (to isolate COVID patients). Then of course, we had to identify staff to actually staff that hotel. Many of our staff actually ended up working in the hotel. A variety of staff from various parts of the health department, environmental health and other areas took on responsibilities and were diverted from the usual work to assist with response activities.

In the health department, it was all hands on deck. As the need for support and resources continued to grow in the summer, early months. We worked to set up a hotline for our community members. We had to mobilize communication resources to ensure that there was a website and places where people could go for trusted information.

CO: How many temporary employees did you hire? What will happen to their positions?

RW: We established, with the support of the Board of County Commissioners, the COVID response unit with about 35 team members. Those individuals were hired on two- or three-year, term-limited positions.

Many of those positions do end in June of this year. Fortunately for us, we have been able to transition many of those team members to other permanent roles in the health department, so were not looking were not facing a big layoff. Many of those folks will be continuing on with us in new capacities and some of them will be in new grant funded positions that are funded by federal public health infrastructure grants.

CO: Did the health department have enough support?

RW: I think were really fortunate to have really supportive leadership to support us and moving forward and, and also making the best decisions for our community. I certainly think we had adequate support. .

One of the challenges we had at least initially was having enough human support, human resources to help us get all the stuff done that we ultimately need to get done. Initially, when we just had a couple of cases a week. Obviously, we had plenty of staff to handle that.

Many of us worked seven days a week, sometimes 12 to 14 hours for a very long time to make sure that everything we needed to get done got done. And ultimately I think we we certainly were able to.

Even throughout the response when it got more, I would say politically charged, it was great to have the thoughtfulness of our leaders here to trust science and to follow the data and to allow us to lead from a neutral place of public health practice.

CO: Looking back over the past three years, how would you grade the countys response to the pandemic?

RW: I would give us an A-plus. I would actually give probably every local health department an A-plus.

Being in the situation that we were in to find a novel virus where information was rapidly evolving every single day from state, federal and global partners and trying to translate that information to the community and then work very quickly to again, mobilize the resources we needed. Whether it be isolation quarantine hotel thats a 24/7 operation or the needs of our case investigation team, which was also a seven-days-a-week operation.

Are there things that we could have done better? I think thats the case in every situation, theres always an opportunity to do something better. So I wouldnt give us 100% on a test, but certainly, I think the level of effort and the commitment of our team members and our leaders showed they stepped up to the occasion.

I would say that we did a fantastic job given the circumstances and the level of misinformation that was sort of fighting against us and then the political polarization that was attached to it. All those forces considered you know, its a really hard test to pass.

CO: Is Mecklenburg County prepared for the next pandemic?

RW: I think, state and national level theres certainly an opportunity for us to make sure we have a seamless coordinated public health system. In many cases right now its fairly fragmented, partially because of the way that the public health system is funded. Much of the funding goes to states, and states have a certain level of latitude and how they implement various systems. We need to really have coordination.

There was a time where people were trying to find out how many COVID cases we have and you got one number from the county, one number from the state one number from the feds. And that really is representative of the lack of a seamless, coordinated data system to be able to respond.

Kudos to the federal government. There was a big initiative where roughly $3 billion has now gone into public health agencies across the country to help us build our capacity to be able to respond, not just in emergency response, but also in our day-to-day operations. Well be able to sustain those things as a result of these additional funds that came from the federal government.

In a situation where youve got miscommunication across the board, having people who actually have expertise, its not just about communicating back to the media. Its about how you can communicate health information in a way that people understand regardless of your literacy level and regardless of your ability to understand complex biological processes. In a world where everybodys consuming information in real time or in 30 seconds on social media, a press release is not going to reach 1.2 million residents.

Theres a lot of discussion right now from the public health community advocating for this is why this is so important. Weve got lots of investments in the biological and basic sciences like through the National Institutes of Health to develop treatments and vaccines and weve gotten lots of investments in health care specifically to deliver services directly to people with treatment and care. But we dont have equal level of investment in public health and when it comes down to things like an emergency or a pandemic. Public health sits right in the middle of all of that.

We have a lot of preparedness plans, within the health department. We have a preparedness team. They manage a lot of plans for us, that help us be prepared for incidents and emergencies that might arise, whether it be a waterborne illness or another respiratory illness or nuclear event of some sort. Those things, I think, are continuing to to move forward. However, theres still a need for added investment at the federal and state level in our system as a whole so its more coordinated.
Qatar and the United Arab Emirates are working to reopen their long-closed embassies "in the coming weeks", an official said Tuesday, as a wave of rapprochement sweeps the turbulent Middle East region.

The two countries re-established relations in January 2021, after the UAE took part in a nearly four-year Gulf blockade of Qatar, but despite several meetings they are yet to restore the diplomatic missions.

"Regarding the opening of embassies between the two countries, I think it will be in the coming weeks," foreign ministry spokesperson Majid Al-Ansari told a briefing.

"The technical committees are now doing their work in this context, and it is expected that there will be exchange visits to consider the procedures we need to reopen embassies."

A UAE official confirmed that the reopening of embassies is "under process".

"At present, the activation of diplomatic ties, which will include the reopening of embassies, is under process between both countries," the official said in a statement sent to AFP.

Opening the embassies would be just the latest in a series of reconciliatory steps for Gulf relations since heavyweights Saudi Arabia and Iran moved to restore ties last month.

Last week, Qatar put aside a chronic feud to resume relations with Bahrain. The two sides aim to quickly reach the "highest levels of cooperation", Al-Ansari said on Tuesday.

Saudi Arabia has been negotiating a fresh ceasefire in Yemen's civil war and nearly 1,000 prisoners from the conflict, pitting a Saudi-led coalition against Iran-backed rebels, have been released in recent days under an exchange deal.

In further evidence of the mood of detente, Saudi Arabia's top diplomat was expected in Damascus on Tuesday, the first such visit since the start of Syria's civil war in 2011.

Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain and Egypt imposed a diplomatic and transport blockade on Qatar in 2017, accusing it of supporting extremist organisations in the region and becoming too close to Iran. Doha denies the allegations.

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A reconciliation accord was sealed in January 2021. The UAE and Qatar held one of a series of meetings earlier this month in what the Qataris called a "positive atmosphere".

Sunni kingdom Saudi Arabia and Shiite theocracy Iran's decision to resume ties appears momentous because they have long been vying for influence around the region, backing opposing sides in conflicts including Yemen.

Analysts say Saudi Arabia, the world's biggest oil exporter, is now seeking to calm Gulf tensions and focus on ambitious domestic projects aimed at reducing its economic dependence on crude.

str/th/hkb
By 2025, Kentuckys new medical marijuana law will take effect, granting individuals with qualifying health conditions legal access to noncombustible cannabis products  and they wont have to travel across state lines to purchase them.

However, Senate Bill 47s chief advocate, Louisville Republican Rep. Jason Nemes, insists the law wont put the state on a pathway to recreational legalization.

This is not a wink, wink, nod, nod, medical program, Nemes said at a committee meeting for the bill, the Herald-Leader previously reported.

The new law follows an executive order issued by Gov. Andy Beshear that allows Kentuckians to legally use medical marijuana purchased in other states. Beshear previously announced he would withdraw his order once the GOP-dominated Kentucky legislature passed its own medical cannabis law, chiding the body for its failure to act.

Heres a dive into Kentuckys new medical marijuana law, including its many caveats around who gets to be a cardholder and how they apply.

When will Kentucky launch its new medical marijuana program?

The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services has its work cut out for it.

Under Senate Bill 47, the cabinet has been tasked with building a medical cannabis program that would oversee the cardholders who use it, the health care workers who treat them and the dispensaries that provide it, along with other stakeholders. That includes creating an electronic monitoring system to facilitate the tracking of medicinal cannabis from the point of cultivation to the point of sale to cardholders.

The cabinet  in partnership with the state Board of Medical Licensure, the Kentucky Board of Nursing, the Kentucky Center for Cannabis and a new advisory board  must do all this no later than July 1, 2024.

Thats in anticipation of the law becoming effective Jan. 1, 2025.

Who qualifies to be a medical marijuana cardholder under the Kentucky law?

According to the legislation, a person will be eligible to apply for a medical cannabis card if they meet the following requirements:

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A resident of Kentucky Obtain a written certification from a qualifying health care provider, meaning a doctor or advanced practice registered nurse authorized to prescribe controlled substances and appropriately licensed by a state board Not convicted of a disqualifying felony offense

Children under the age of 18 years old may also use medical marijuana if they qualify and are registered with the state. However, they will not be permitted to purchase, possess or acquire medicinal cannabis.

Minors may only use medicinal cannabis with the help of their designated caregiver, such as a parent or legal guardian, who also registers with the state and provides consent for medical treatment.

To be considered qualified to use medical marijuana, an individual must have one of the following health conditions:

Any type or form of cancer, regardless of stage

Chronic, severe, intractable or debilitating pain

Epilepsy or any other intractable seizure disorder

Multiple sclerosis, muscle spasms or spasticity

Chronic nausea or cyclical vomiting syndrome resistant to other conventional treatment methods

Post-traumatic stress disorder

Notably, the law extends medical marijuana use to people with chronic nausea or vomiting syndromes resistant to the usual treatments, unlike the governors executive order.

Otherwise, the individual in question must have any other medical condition or disease the Kentucky Center for Cannabis determines would gain a medical, therapeutic or palliative benefit from the use of medical marijuana.

Where is weed legal? How Kentucky compares to 37 states that allow medical marijuana

How do you obtain a medical marijuana card in Kentucky if you qualify?

Applicants have to submit several pieces of information to the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services to be considered eligible for a medical cannabis card in Kentucky.

These include:

The name, address and date of birth of the qualified patient. If the applicant is houseless, they must provide an address where the applicant may be reached.

A written certification issued by a medicinal cannabis practitioner within 90 days immediately preceding the date of an application.

The name, address and telephone number of the qualified patients doctor or APRN, referred to as a medicinal cannabis practitioner.

The name, address and date of birth of no more than two individuals chosen by the qualified patient to be designated as a caregiver, if the patient chooses to use one.

A statement, signed by the qualified patient, pledging not to divert medicinal cannabis to anyone who is not permitted to possess it. This statement will include a list of potential penalties, including criminal prosecution, for illegally distributing medical cannabis. The patients caregivers must sign similar forms.

An application or renewal fee for a registry identification card for a qualified patient. This includes an additional fee for cards granted to caregivers.

How much medical cannabis can a cardholder possess?

That remains to be decided. The cabinet will determine what constitutes a 30-day supply of medical cannabis, in consultation with doctors and other health care practitioners.

Who can use medical marijuana in Kentucky? Heres what to know about the requirements

What are the rules around possessing and using medical marijuana?

There are several rules, chief of which is smoking marijuana isnt allowed under the states medical cannabis law.

Cardholders must keep their medical marijuana in the original container it was provided in. They must carry their valid medical cannabis card with them along with documents attesting to their qualifying diagnosis.

In the meantime, Kentuckians can continue to access medical marijuana through Beshears standing executive order. A spokesperson for the governor said the order will remain until it is no longer needed, when the new law goes into effect in 2025.

Do you have a question about marijuana in Kentucky for our service journalism team? Wed like to hear from you. Fill out our Know Your Kentucky form or email ask@herald-leader.com.
A member of a Raleigh gang is headed to prison for 11 years after plotting to kill a rival gang member, according to the U.S Attorneys Office.

On Tuesday, U.S. Attorney Michael Easley announced that Clinton Basco, 26, was sentenced to 132 months in prison for his involvement in trafficking meth amphetamine and participating in a conspiracy to commit murder.

Bascos case is part of a larger effort of taking down dangerous gang leaders, Easley said in a statement. More than 20 indictments have been issued in a large plot among gang members like Basco to kill each other.

Basco was in a leadership role within the EGTC (Raleigh Eight Trey Gangster Crips) and was known as an enforcer who committed acts of violence of behalf of the EGTC in Raleigh, the statement said.

At the direction of Crips members Dexter Maxwell and Rayquan Wiggins, Basco and Deandre Earp were ordered to kill an unnamed rival gang member.

Law enforcement arrested all the men before the murder could take place, according to the statement

In January 2022, Earp was sentenced to more than 40 years in prison. In February, Wiggins was sentenced to eight years in prison.

Basco pleaded guilty to the drug trafficking charges and murder conspiracy in June 2021.
E-commerce had a moment during the global pandemic, but not only have things chilled since then, its gotten downright competitive as the economy cooled in the past year, according to Jordan Gal, co-founder and CEO of Rally.

Founders in this space used to speak of optimism, but that has turned into realism, and people are more careful, Gal told TechCrunch. The pie seems to have stopped growing, and there's more ferocious competition for what's left in that pie.

Gal went on to explain that merchants are having to make harder decisions, including whether they can afford to invest in software.

Thats why Rally, a composable checkout platform for e-commerce merchants, has broken up its business into two segments: the first to meet merchants where they are with integrations to commerce tools, like Salesforce Commerce Cloud, Magento and BigCommerce; the second to offer merchants a headless ecosystem.

The term headless refers to the ability to change the front end or back end of a website without affecting the other. Gal said he was not able to provide details just yet, but said Rally is close to announcing a partnership with companies specializing in front end and back end to offer headless-as-a-service.

Gal started Rally with Rok Knez to create checkout tools for merchants outside of the Shopify ecosystem. Both were previously involved with another checkout company, CartHook, and led the company to process nearly $3 billion in transactions for Shopify merchants before selling to Pantastic in 2021, Gal said.

Rally, which is working with 50 e-commerce merchants currently, provides one-click checkout with payment processing and tools for post-purchase offers that turns the purchase into a multi-revenue channel by allowing the merchant to inject offers after the checkout. For example, rather than going right to a thank you page, consumers would be offered the option of upgrading to a subscription or purchasing additional similar products in a way that doesn't interrupt the payment flow.

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Implementing the post-purchase offer has helped merchants increase revenue by over 12% on average, Gal said.

Meanwhile, over the past 12 months, Rally has doubled the size of its team and is doing millions in monthly GMV (gross merchandise volume), Gal said.

TechCrunch previously profiled the company when it raised $6 million in seed funding. Today, the company announced additional funding of $12 million in Series A funding. It was led by March Capital, which was joined by Felix Capital, Commerce Ventures, Afore Capital, Alumni Ventures and Kraken Ventures. The new investment, which closed in the first quarter of 2023, gives Rally $18 million in total venture-backed capital.

Gal plans to focus the new funding on go-to-market, including entering new markets, like enterprise and international, and expanding integrations beyond Swell, BigCommerce and others, including Salesforce Commerce Cloud, commercetools, Affirm and AfterPay. Rally will also focus on strengthening its fraud protection offering and build out web3 features, starting with allowing merchants to accept cryptocurrencies in their checkout.

We want to establish a reputation as the best choice when a merchant is looking to either upgrade their checkout or build a new site without having to build their own checkout, Gal said. You can't just build it and leave it alone, so merchants are looking for a partner that they can trust so they can focus on what they're best at.

If you have a juicy tip or lead about happenings in the venture world, you can reach Christine Hall at chall.techcrunch@gmail.com or Signal at 832-862-1051. Anonymity requests will be respected.
Supporters across the nation raised more than $400,000 in an online fundraiser Tuesday alone  reaching the $3 million mark  to help the family of Ralph Yarl, the Black teen allegedly shot twice by a white man when he rang the wrong doorbell in Kansas Citys Northland last week.

As of late Tuesday afternoon, a GoFundMe to help pay for the 16-year-olds medical bills, therapy and college education, among other expenses, has had hit more than $3 million since Yarls aunt Faith Spoonmore started the fundraiser on Sunday.

Students in the Staley High School jazz band, of which Yarl is a member, will also host a benefit concert from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Thursday in the schools Great Hall. All proceeds from ticket and refreshment sales will go to Yarls family or their church.

Andrew Lester, 84, was charged with first-degree assault and armed criminal action for allegedly shooting Yarl twice when the teen went to Lesters door by mistake, after being sent to pick up his younger brothers from a home the next street over.

Lester surrendered to authorities Tuesday afternoon, nearly 24 hours after authorities issued a warrant for his arrest. He was being held in the Clay County jail, before posting $200,000 bond just hours after surrendering.

Andrew Lester, 84

Yarl told detectives a white man came to the door holding a firearm and shot him, knocking him to the ground. The man then allegedly shot Yarl once more in the arm, and told him Dont come around here.

Yarl said he ran from the home, fearing the man would shoot him again. He asked for help at several residences before someone called 911 and Yarl was taken to the hospital.

On Monday, Yarls father told The Star that his son was released from the hospital and is recovering at his mothers home.

President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris are among the politicians calling for justice for Yarl and have invited him to visit the White House. Celebrities, including Jennifer Hudson and Halle Berry, have also posted about the teen.

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Spoonmore said on GoFundMe that her nephew is a high-achieving student and a talented musician.

At school, Ralph Yarl is involved in jazz and competition band, among other activities.

She said he plays in the jazz, competition and marching band and has earned state recognition as a bass clarinet player. Yarl also plays multiple instruments in the Northland Symphony Youth Orchestra, she said. He was selected his sophomore year for the Missouri Scholars Academy at the University of Missouri and hopes to study chemical engineering at Texas A&M, Spoonmore said.

Dan Clemens, superintendent of the North Kansas City School District where Yarl attends Staley High School, also shared a message of support for his family Monday and emphasized the teens achievements.

Ralph is an excellent student, a talented musician, Clemens said. He maintains a stellar GPA while taking mostly college-level courses. While he loves science and hopes to pursue that career path, his passion is music.
A GoFundMe campaign launched to support a Black teenager who was shot in the head by a white homeowner when he accidentally went to the wrong address has soared past $2.8m in donations.

Ralph Yarl, a 16-year-old high school junior, was shot twice last Thursday when he went to pick up his younger twin brothers from a friends house on 13 April.

Kansas City Police said that Ralph had gone to collect his siblings from a friends house on 115th Terrace in Kansas City, Missouri, but got muddled up with the address and accidentally went to a home on 115th Street by mistake.

There, Ralph allegedly rang the doorbell and the homeowner  later identified as 84-year-old Andrew Lester  opened fire on him, shooting him twice.

The Black teenager was rushed to hospital in critical condition while the white homeowner was initially detained  before being released without charge.

On Monday, prosecutors charged Mr Lester with assault in the first degree, which carries a punishment of 10 to 30 years or life imprisonment. He was also charged with armed criminal action, which carries a punishment of three to 15 years.

Earlier protesters, the victims family and a growing number of celebrities had demanded justice for the 16-year-old and for the shooter to be criminally charged.

Donations have been flooding in on a GoFundMe campaign, set up to help pay for the boys recovery.

Police booking photo of Andrew Lester, charged with shooting Ralph Yarl (Kansas City Police)

As of around 1pm ET on Tuesday  just over a day after its launch  a staggering $2.88m had been raised.

On the campaign page, a woman who identified herself as Ralphs aunt described the teenager as a fantastic kid who had dreams of doing to Texas A&M University to major in chemical Engineering.

At school, he is a member of the Technology Student Association and Science Olympia Team. Jazz and competition band. He is a section leader in the marching band; a scholar and one of the top base clarinet players in Missouri. He recently earned Missouri All-State Band recognition with an honorable mention. He plays multiple instruments in the metropolitan youth orchestra. He is a 2022 Missouri scholar academy alumni. Ralph can often be found with a musical instrument. He loves them all, the page reads.

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Last summer, Ralph attended Missouri Scholars Academy, where he got a full college life experience. His goal is to attend Texas A&M to major in chemical Engineering.

When asked how he plans to get into this university, he said, Well, if they have a scholarship for music or academics, I know I can get it. Ralphs teacher and friends describe him as  a kind soul, quiet, friendly, well-mannered, always willing to help, super smart, and a musical genius. Ralph was looking forward to graduating high school and finally getting the opportunity to visit West Africa before starting college.

Life looks a lot different right now. Even though he is doing well physically, he has a long road ahead mentally and emotionally. The trauma that he has to endure and survive is unimaginable. He is our miracle. We have heard these types of stories many times, and unfortunately, most black boys are not alive to get another chance.

Ralph Yarl GoFundMe soars past $1m mark (GoFundMe)

Ralph deserves to have the future that he has dreams about. He deserves to be the light that shows the world that LOVE wins and that humanity is still Good. However, he will need a lot of help to get there. Funds from this account will be used for his medical bills and therapy. Any additional funds will be use for college expenses at Texas A&M, a trip to West Africa, and other expenses.

The family described how Ralph had been on his way to pick up his twin younger brothers from their friends house a few blocks from his own home.

He didnt have his phone. He mistakenly went to the wrong house, one block away from the house where his siblings were. He pulled into the driveway and rang the doorbell, the page read.

The man in the home opened the door, looked my nephew in the eye, and shot him in the head. My nephew fell to the ground, and the man shot him again.

Following the shooting, Ralph managed to stumble away to some other homes in the neighbourhood to get help, according to his family.

Unfortunately, he had to run to 3 different homes before someone finally agreed to help him after he was told to lie on the ground with his hands up, the family said.

Civil rights attorneys Ben Crump and Lee Merritt, who are now representing the victim and his family, said that the high school scholar was shot twice  once in the head and once in the arm.

The suspect was initially taken into custody on Thursday and placed on a 24-hour hold.

However, under Missouri state law, a person can only be held for 24 hours on suspicion of a felony before officials must either charge or release them. The suspect was released pending further investigation.

Speaking before the announcement of the charges against Mr Lester, Mr Crump and Mr Merritt  who have previously represented the families of Ahmaud Arbery and George Floyd  condemned the release of the armed and dangerous suspect in a joint statement after taking the case.

In a joint statement, the attorneys said: There can be no excuse for the release of this armed and dangerous suspect after admitting to shooting an unarmed, non-threatening and defenseless teenager that rang his doorbell.

Ralph Yarl lies in hospital bed as he recovers from shooting (Shaun King)

We demand swift action from Clay County prosecutors and law enforcement to identify, arrest and prosecute to the full extent of the law the man responsible for this horrendous and unjustifiable shooting.

After charges were brought on Monday, Mr Crump said in a statement: While this is certainly a step in the right direction, we will continue to fight for Ralph while he works towards a full recovery.

More than 20 hours later, authorities announced that Mr Lester had surrendered at a detention centre on Tuesday afternoon.

Hollywood actors Halle Berry and Viola Davis have also spoken out to demand justice for the Black teenager and condemn the lack of charges so far brought against the man responsible.

Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves said at a press conference on Sunday that  due to Ralphs injuries  police had been unable to get a formal statement from the victim. Ralph was discharged from hospital, it was announced on Monday.

While the police chief initially said that there was no evidence to date to indicate that the shooting was racially motivated, Clay County prosecutor Zachary Thompson confirmed in a press conference on Monday afternoon that there was a racial component to the case, although he would not give details on what had caused him to come to that conclusion.

The shooting  which marks the latest in a growing number of shootings of Black people in America  has sparked protests with hundreds marching through the area where the teenager was shot during a rally on Sunday.

Many carried placards reading Black Lives Matter, Ringing a doorbell is not a crime and Justice for Ralph, reported KSHB.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 18)  Former Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, who was the countrys top diplomat when Manila legally challenged Beijings claims in the West Philippine Sea, died on Tuesday, April 18.

He was 83.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) confirmed the news, saying the diplomat died while en route to San Francisco.

I extend my deepest condolences to the loved ones of Secretary Albert F. Del Rosario, DFA Secretary Enrique Manalo wrote in a separate statement.

He was a consummate diplomat and an inspiring leader who led the DFA with integrity and unwavering commitment to public service. You will be missed, Mr. Secretary, he added.

Del Rosario was born in Manila on Nov. 14, 1939.

He served as foreign affairs secretary from 2011 to 2016 during the administration of former President Benigno Aquino III.

Known for his role in helping the country secure its historic arbitral victory against China on the West Philippine Sea issue, Del Rosario was a staunch advocate of protecting and advancing national security and promoting the rights and welfare of Filipinos, the DFA said.

Even after his term as DFA chief, Del Rosario continued to speak against Chinese incursions in Philippine waters and to urge succeeding administrations to continue defending the countrys territory.

Before taking the helm of the DFA, he held the position of Philippine Ambassador to the United States during the term of ex-President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.

In 2004, Arroyo conferred on him the Order of Sikatuna with the Rank of Datu, which is bestowed on individuals who have rendered exceptional and meritorious services to the country.

Del Rosario was also the chairperson of the think tank Stratbase ADR Institute for Strategic and International Studies, which focuses on in-depth analysis of economic, social, political and strategic issues influencing the Philippines and the Indo-Pacific region.

The organization mourned the passing of its head, whom it said personified the highest level of statesmanship, integrity, and love of country.

"He has been a champion of democratic values and a rules-based international order to sustain lasting peace, security, and prosperity for all, read the statement of the Stratbase ADR.

He believed that diplomacy is a great equalizer in international affairs and that each state had an equal voice in the global community regardless of their political, economic, or military capabilities, it added.

Del Rosario is survived by his wife Gretchen and his children.
Image shows Ralph Yarl

An 84-year-old man in the US state of Missouri has turned himself in to police after shooting a teenager who mistakenly rang his doorbell.

Andrew Lester was bailed after being charged with first-degree assault and armed criminal action, both felonies.

The white homeowner allegedly shot Ralph Yarl, 16, who is black, once in the head and once in the arm last Thursday night in Kansas City.

The boy survived, and doctors say they have no idea how.

A prosecutor said there was a "racial component" to the shooting. Mr Lester has not been charged with a hate crime, and charging documents do not describe any alleged racial bias.

He was released on Tuesday evening after posting 10% of the total $200,000 (160,000) bail amount.

The teenager told authorities he had mistakenly approached Mr Lester's home last Thursday night to pick up his younger twin brothers, driving to Northeast 115 Street instead of Northeast 115th Terrace, which is one block away.

After Ralph rang the doorbell, Mr Lester shot him twice - once in the forehead and once in the arm. No words were exchanged before the homeowner opened fire with a .32 revolver, prosecutors said.

Mr Lester has not denied shooting the boy, telling authorities he believed he was protecting himself from a confrontation. Prosecutors have said that Ralph "did not cross the threshold" of Mr Lester's home.

Police initially detained Mr Lester for questioning and released him without charges, sparking protests throughout Kansas City on Sunday.

On Monday, prosecutor Zachary Thompson announced Mr Lester had been charged with first-degree assault and armed criminal action. If convicted, he could face life in prison.

If convicted, Mr Lester could face life in prison

Ralph's mother Cleo Nagbe told CBS News her son had returned home from hospital, surrounded by a team of medical professionals.

He is expected to recover, Ms Nagbe said, stunning his own doctors.

Story continues

Lee Merritt, a lawyer for the Yarl family, told the BBC that Ralph was suffering from speech problems and had a long road to recovery.

"I think he's an amazing kid," said Mr Merritt, adding that the boy was surprised by all the attention the case has been getting.

"It's a big deal because the community is tired of their children being victimised and Ralph will make the change," said Mr Merritt.

The lawyer said the family was not upset that Mr Lester had not been charged with attempted murder.

"I don't want to create a higher burden for prosecutors to meet," said Mr Merritt. "I want him to be locked away for the rest of his life and so these charges are sufficient."

Hundreds of protesters held a rally outside the local court on Tuesday where many denounced the suspect's bail.

Donna Camargo (R) and Anna Donigan (L) attended a protest on Tuesday outside the local court

"I'm angry Lester's been released on bail," 17-year-old Donna Camargo told the BBC.

"Even more angry he was taken into custody at the time of the incident and went home - was able to sleep in his bed while Ralph was fighting for his life in the hospital."

A GoFundMe account set up to pay for Ralph's medical recovery had raised more than $3m (2.4m) as of Tuesday.
Ralph Yarl, 16, is a "fantastic kid" who plays bass clarinet, his aunt said

A man in the US state of Missouri has been charged with shooting a teenager who rang the wrong doorbell while picking up his younger brothers.

Andrew Lester, 84, has been charged with first-degree assault and armed criminal action, prosecutors said.

Mr Lester, who is white, allegedly shot Ralph Yarl, 16, who is black, once in the head and once in the arm last Thursday night. The boy survived.

A prosecutor said there was a "racial component" to the shooting.

Mr Lester has not been charged with a hate crime, and charging documents do not describe the alleged racial bias.

At a press conference on Monday, Clay County Prosecutor Zachary Thompson said: "My message to the community is that, in Clay County, we enforce the laws and we follow the laws.

"That doesn't matter where you come from, what you look like or how much money you have."

Police initially detained Mr Lester for questioning and let him go, sparking protests throughout the city on Sunday.

On Monday, protesters gathered outside the suspect's home chanting "black lives are under attack" and "stand up, fight back", online video shows. Mr Lester's home has also reportedly been vandalised.

Personal injury lawyer Benjamin Crump, who is representing the Yarl family, said: "You can't just shoot people without having justification when somebody comes knocking on your door - and knocking on your door is not justification."

Ralph's family said the teen had been trying to pick up his younger twin brothers from a friend's house at around 22:00 local time on 13 April when he knocked on Mr Lester's door.

Family members say the boy mistakenly went to 115th Street instead of 115th Terrace and rang the bell twice. After being shot, he went to three nearby homes before someone helped him, they said.

No words were exchanged before the homeowner opened fire with a .32 revolver, prosecutors said.

But another attorney for the family, Lee Merritt, told NBC News: "He heard rustling around going on in the house and then finally the door was open.

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"And he was confronted by a man who told him, 'Don't come back around here,' and then he immediately fired his weapon."

According to local reports, Mr Lester told police that he believed someone was breaking into his home and fired two shots through his door. A witness also told the local news station that he heard Ralph "screaming that he had been shot".

On Monday, prosecutors said Missouri citizens have the right to use force if they "reasonably" fear that they are in danger. They declined to elaborate further on the specifics of this case.

Ralph was released from hospital on Sunday and was at home recovering from his injuries, family members said.

The boy's father, Paul Yarl, told the Kansas City Star the charges were "such a relief".

"I'm happy. This is what we've been looking for. It's here."

According to the family's lawyers, President Joe Biden called the Yarls on Monday and spoke with them for 20 minutes.

He told reporters that Mr Biden had offered his prayers and invited them to the White House once the teenager has recovered.

Celebrities including Viola Davis, Justin Timberlake, Halle Berry and Kerry Washington - as well as Kansas City Chiefs star quarterback Patrick Mahomes - condemned the shooting.

A GoFundMe account set up to pay for Ralph's medical recovery has raised over $2.1m (1.7m) as of Monday.

In a separate incident on Saturday, a 20-year-old woman in New York state was shot after the vehicle she was in mistakenly drove into the wrong driveway.

Friends drove Kaylin Gillis away from the scene and attempted to call for help in a nearby town, but she was was later pronounced dead by paramedics.
Ralph Yarl, the Black teen shot in the head by a white Kansas City man for going to the wrong home to pick up his younger siblings, has been crying buckets of tears since he was wounded last week, his mother said on Monday.

In her first interview since the shooting, Cleo Nagbe told Gayle King on CBS Mornings that her 16-year-old son is doing considerably well physically, but he is still dealing with emotional trauma.

Hes able to communicate mostly when he feels like it, Nagbe said. But mostly he just sits there and stares, and the buckets of tears just roll down his eyes. You can see that hes just replaying the situation over and over again, and that just doesnt stop my tears either.

Cleo Nagbe told @GayleKing that her son, 16-year-old Ralph Yarl, is crying "buckets of tears" as he recovers from two gunshot wounds.



She said Ralph is replaying the situation over and over again. pic.twitter.com/RkOG34FqtE  CBS Mornings (@CBSMornings) April 18, 2023

Yarl left his home on Thursday night to pick up his twin younger brothers from their friends house, as requested by his mother. While the teen had the correct house number, he turned onto the wrong street and pulled into the driveway of Andrew Lester, an 84-year-old white man.

After Yarl rang the doorbell, Lester shot at him through the front doors glass  one bullet struck him above his left eye, and one in his upper right arm, his mom said. The boy visited several neighbors homes before he received medical attention. Yarl was hospitalized for his injuries, and returned home on Saturday to continue his recovery.

He got a couple of bullets inside his body, instead of a couple of twins coming out and giving him a hug, Nagbe said.

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The head wound, she added, caused extensive injury because the bullet lodged there for up to 12 hours before it was taken out.

The residual effect of that injury is going to stay with him for quite a while. Hes home, but I want to remind everybody that Ralph is home because hes surrounded by a team of medical professionals, she continued, referring to family members who are health care providers. The boys mother is a seasoned nurse, his aunt is a physical therapist and his uncle is a medical professional.

On Monday, Clay County Prosecutor Zachary Thompson charged Lester with felony first-degree assault, punishable by a maximum of 30 years to life in prison, and armed criminal action.

Lester told investigators he shot Yarl because he feared for his life, which civil rights attorney Lee Merritt said sounds awfully familiar.

Clay County Prosecuting Attorney Zachary Thompson announces charges against Andrew Lester, Monday, April 17, 2023, in Liberty, Missouri.

Clay County Prosecuting Attorney Zachary Thompson announces charges against Andrew Lester, Monday, April 17, 2023, in Liberty, Missouri.

We know that Blackness in and of itself, just being Black, has been seen as a threat often in this country, said Merritt, who along with civil rights attorney Ben Crump is representing the family. And so when we hear him say, I feared for my life, and we know the only thing he was confronted with was a 16-year-old ringing his doorbell, it is obviously unjustifiable for him to decide to use deadly force against this so-called threat. Again, Blackness is not a threat.

Thompson, who said he believes there is a racial component to the shooting, plans to meet with Yarls family on Tuesday. Merritt said he is looking forward to hearing the prosecutor elaborate on the racial aspect.

Yarls friends and family have described the high school junior as kind, quiet, gifted, smart and musically talented. Nagbe recalled how her arguments with Yarl include telling him to put down the sheet music so he could finish homework for his English class  his only non-college-level course that she said is boring for him.

Yale University has twice asked Yarl to apply to the school, and the teen bonded over music  particularly the clarinet  with President Joe Biden during a call on Monday.

Correction:A previous version of this story incorrectly listed Lesters age as 85.
A photo of Ralph Yarl during band practice GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/nf36y-cover-medical-expenses

On April 13, Ralph Yarl, an unarmed Black 16 year old, was shot twice in Kansas City, Missouri, after he walked up to the wrong house. The high school junior had been asked to pick up his younger siblings from a friend's house, but mistakenly went to a home a block away. The homeowner who shot him, an elderly white man, was not immediately arrested or charged, sparking outrage and protests in Kansas City.

What led up to the shooting?

Yarl's family said he was told to pick up his siblings from a friend's house on 115th Terrace, but he left his phone behind, and without the right address, accidentally went to 115th Street. It was around 10 p.m., and Yarl's family said after he knocked on the door, the homeowner opened the door and shot him twice  once in the head and once in the arm. "He mistakenly went to the wrong house," Yarl's aunt, Faith Spoonmore, wrote on GoFundMe. "He pulled into the driveway and rang the doorbell. The man in the home opened the door, looked my nephew in the eye, and shot him in the head." Yarl was able to run away from the property, but Spoonmore said he had to knock on three different doors before someone called 911.

The homeowner, identified on April 17 as 84-year-old Andrew Lester, told police officers that not long after he went to bed, he heard his doorbell ring. He looked and saw a Black male pulling on the locked storm door, and afraid he was going to get robbed, fired his Smith & Wesson .32-caliber pistol. The criminal complaint filed April 17 says Lester told police the "last thing he wanted to do" was shoot someone, but he "could not take the chance of the male coming in." Lester, the complaint stated, was "visibly upset and repeatedly expressed concern for the victim."

What did police do?

After the shooting, Lester was in police custody for 24 hours, then released. Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves told reporters that under state law, a person can be held for just 24 hours before either being formally charged or freed. When an arrest wasn't immediately made, protesters began gathering outside of Lester's home, some holding signs that read "Ringing A Doorbell Is Not A Crime."

Story continues

Civil rights attorneys Ben Crump and Lee Merritt are representing Yarl, and in an interview with CNN, Crump said, "We can only imagine if the roles were reversed, and you have a Black man shooting a 16-year-old white child who was simply ringing his doorbell, and the police took him in for questioning and let him come home and sleep in his bed at night. How much outrage would there be in America? It's unacceptable. We demand justice. Arrest the attempted murderer of this young Black child."

On April 17, Lester was charged with felony assault and armed criminal action. During a press conference, Prosecuting Attorney Zachary Thompson said there was "a racial component to the case," and officials "understand how frustrating this has been but I can assure you the criminal justice system is working and will continue to work."

What is Yarl's condition?

The teenager was hospitalized with gunshot wounds to the head and chest, a fractured skull, a traumatic brain injury, post-concussive syndrome, and injuries to his arm, Merritt told The Guardian. He underwent surgery to remove the bullets, his father, Paul Yarl, shared with The New York Times, and left the hospital on Sunday night. Paul Yarl said his son, now recuperating at home, is expected to make a full recovery.

Ralph Yarl enjoys playing the clarinet and video games, and is an honor student and all-state band member, his family said. Paul Yarl told Fox 4 Kansas City that his son is in "good spirits," and the family is relieved that charges have been filed against Lester. "That's what we requested, that's what we wanted, and that's what is happening, so we're happy," he said. Paul Yarl also questioned why the situation escalated so quickly, saying, "Man could've called police if he suspected something, he could've called 911. To shoot, that was wrong."

Missouri's gun laws

Under the state's "stand your ground" and "castle doctrine" laws, individuals who believe they are being threatened do not have to withdraw, but can only act in self-defense if there is "a reasonable fear of deadly force or assault," Kansas City attorney Kevin Jamison told The Washington Post. There has to be proof of a threat, and Jamison said a person knocking on a door or ringing a doorbell is not a legitimate reason to use deadly force against someone.

Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas agrees. "If 'stand your ground' really lets somebody just shoot somebody that rings a doorbell, that puts the life of every postal worker, every campaigner, every Amazon delivery person at risk in this country," he said.

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KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP)  As Ralph Yarl struggled to come to grips with being shot after going to the wrong house to pick up his younger brothers, the white Kansas City, Missouri, homeowner who shot the Black teenager turned himself in and was released on bond Tuesday.

Andrew Lester, 84, surrendered at the Clay County Detention Center a day after being charged with first-degree assault and armed criminal action. He posted bond Tuesday afternoon. Some civil rights leaders urged a hate crime charge, but Clay County Prosecuting Attorney Zachary Thompson said first-degree assault is a higher-level crime with a longer sentence  up to life in prison.

Lee Merritt, an attorney for the Yarl family, said the case should qualify as a hate crime.

Ralph Yarl was shot because he was armed with nothing but other than his Black skin, he said.

As Yarl recovered from his wounds, supporters, civil rights leaders and politicians rallied in downtown Kansas City to call for justice for the 16-year-old and a stronger effort to improve racial relations in Missouri and the U.S.

Speakers urged the crowd to support Yarl, to fight for justice and to remove politicians who pass discriminatory laws and support gun rights.

Many carried signs saying, He is only 16, and Is this what Kansas City has come to? Stop gun violence.

Merritt said the family is also angry that police held Lester for only two hours after the shooting, when they legally could have held him for 24.

If they would have held him for 24 hours, they would have held him long enough to get the statement from the kid with a bullet in his brain," Merritt said. They got the statement the very next day.

During an interview Tuesday with CBS Mornings, Yarl's mother, Cleo Nagbe, said her son is in good spirits but that the trauma remains evident. She said he is able to communicate mostly when he feels like it, but mostly he just sits there and stares, and the buckets of tears just rolls down his eyes.

Story continues

You can see that he is just replaying the situation over and over again, and that just doesnt stop my tears either, she said.

The shooting happened about 10 p.m. Thursday. Police Chief Stacey Graves said that Yarls parents asked him to pick up his twin brothers at a home on 115th Terrace.

Yarl, an honors student and all-state band member, mistakenly went to 115th Street  a block away from where he meant to be. When he rang the bell, Lester came to the door and shot Yarl in the forehead  then shot him again, in the right forearm.

Lester faces arraignment Wednesday afternoon. He does not yet have a listed attorney.

Lester told police he lives alone and was scared to death when he saw a Black male on the porch and thought someone was trying to break in, according to the probable cause statement.

No words were exchanged before the shooting, but afterward, as Yarl got up to run, he heard Lester yell, Dont come around here, the statement said.

Yarl ran to multiple homes asking for help before finding someone who would call the police, the statement said.

James Lynch was the neighbor who found Yarl. He didnt respond to an interview request, but his wife confirmed an NBC News report that said Lynch heard shouting and saw Yarl banging on the door of another home.

I heard somebody screaming, Help, help, Ive been shot! Lynch, who is white, told NBC. The father of three ran out and found Yarl covered in blood. Lynch checked his pulse and, when another neighbor came out with towels, helped stem the bleeding until paramedics arrived.

The shooting outraged many in Kansas City and across the country. President Joe Biden was among those demanding justice. He spoke with Yarl on Monday and invited him to the White House.

No parent should have to worry that their kid will be shot after ringing the wrong doorbell, Biden tweeted. Weve got to keep up the fight against gun violence.

Thompson said Monday that there was a racial component to the shooting. He did not elaborate. Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Alexander Higginbotham said in an email to The Associated Press on Tuesday that there is not a racial element to the legal charges that were filed.

Merritt said the Yarl family met privately with Thompson and asked why he said the case had a racial aspect, without elaboration. The prosecutor said he was echoing the words from law enforcement that obviously theres a racial dynamic at play in this case, said Merritt, who called the answer shallow.

About 150 supporters attended Tuesday's rally at police headquarters, chanting Justice for Ralph and demanding that the U.S. Department of Justice investigate. Lester, the activists said, received preferential treatment because he is white.

Bishop Frank Douglas of the Church of God in Christ, said the U.S. is experiencing its own version of apartheid and that if the shooter had been Black, it would have been lynching time.

We are putting a spotlight to whats been going on for over 100 years," Douglas said. "We got emancipation but we didnt get love.

Karen Allman, 61, said she had lived in Lesters neighborhood for 32 years, although she didnt know him or hear the shooting. She said she attended Wednesdays rally to support Yarl and his family because if we dont speak out, its going to keep happening.

I dont know what they go through on a day-to-day basis being Black, said Allman, who is white. But I do know if we dont stand with them, they dont have a chance of having any of this fixed.

The assault charge against Lester carries a penalty of up to life in prison. Lester also was charged with armed criminal action, which has a penalty range of 3-15 years in prison.

Charging Lester with a hate crime would have potentially meant a shorter sentence if he's convicted, experts said.

Washington University School of Law professor Peter Joy said the state hate crime law is used only to enhance low-level felony or misdemeanor charges.

What the prosecutor did was charge (Lester) with the highest degree of felony they could charge him with, Joy said.

Legal experts believe Lester's lawyers will claim self-defense under Missouris Stand Your Ground law, which allows for using deadly force if a person is in fear for their life. Missouri is among roughly 30 states with such statutes.

Robert Spitzer, a professor emeritus of political science at the State University of New York, Cortland, whose research focuses on gun policy and politics, said the Missouri law provides wide latitude for people to use lethal force.

St. Louis defense attorney Nina McDonnell agreed. She said prosecutors have a strong case but that the Stand Your Ground law defense is a huge hurdle to overcome.

The defendant was in his house and has expressed that he was in fear," McDonnell said.

___

Salter reported from OFallon, Missouri. Heather Hollingsworth in Mission, Kansas, contributed to this report.
A rare species of bee has been recorded in Warwickshire for the first time.

The Spring Plasterer Bee, also known as Colletes cunicularius, was discovered by a ranger at Ryton Pools Country Park.

The bee, with a distinctive fluffy face, typically nests in sandy soil and digs tunnels into the ground.

Warwickshire County Council said it was "thrilled" to have recorded the new species.

A single male bee had been discovered during a survey of the area by Warwickshire Country Parks ranger George Humphrey before a "healthy population" of the species was discovered nearby.

Known to be an important pollinator of plants, fruit trees and wildflowers, the UK's population of Spring Plasterer Bees had heavily declined in the 20th century.

The species had existed at a few sites on the north west coasts of England and Wales, but populations have now started to spread inland to new areas.

Mr Humphrey described the find as a "wonderful" and an "unexpected" start to the year's bee recording season.

He said the park, which now has 82 species of bee, was one of the few places in the region that had suitable conditions to support a range of species.

"I am proud to be part of a team working to ensure our park's ecosystems continue to support a range of species, including the Spring Plasterer Bee," he added.

Follow BBC West Midlands on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Send your story ideas to: newsonline.westmidlands@bbc.co.uk
SAN DIEGO (AP)  As an ambassador for rats, it's never easy to win over the public. There's that hairless tail after all.

But Runa at the San Diego Zoo is doing her best to counter the bad press. She is one of a handful of such so-called ambassadors showing off the virtues of rats at three U.S. zoos. The rats were provided by a Tanzania-based organization that is training African giant pouched rats to combat wildlife trafficking, detect diseases and perform other useful tasks.

At least twice the size of the common brown rats found in cities, African giant pouched rats like Runa are best known for ferreting out landmines and other explosive material on old battlefields in Angola, Mozambique and Cambodia, earning them the nickname hero-rats. Efforts are underway to expand the use of their keen sense of smell to finding people trapped in collapsed buildings, detecting diseases in laboratory samples and alerting officials to illegal goods at ports and airports.

Six African rats completed their first trial working in the field in March, spending a month at a port in Tanzania where they were tasked with detecting smuggled goods, including Pangolins. The scaly anteater is coveted by poachers and is among the most trafficked animals in the world. Its meat is considered a delicacy in Vietnam and some parts of China, and its scales are used in traditional Chinese medicine.

Wildlife contraband is concealed among vast numbers of shipping containers that annually leave Dar es Salaam in Tanzania and other African ports.

Runa initially was trained to find landmines, but she often got distracted on the job. She has been excelling, however, as an ambassador, said Cari Inserra, lead wildlife care specialist at the San Diego Zoo.

On a recent day, her trainers hid small vessels of chamomile tea under the dirt in a box. As soon as she was released from her cage, Runa's tiny nose was abuzz with twitching as she set out to work. Within seconds she had found all the vessels, and was racing over to suck on a syringe filled with a pellet-and-banana smoothie.

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One of the most fun things to see is how she changes the perceptions of people, Inserra said.

Nicki Boyd, of the San Diego Zoo and Wildlife Alliance, said rats offer an important tool to combat wildlife trafficking, which the zoo wants to highlight since the illegal animal trade "is very destructive to the species that we are actively trying to save and protect in the wild."

I do think there is the ability to scale this up, she said.

But rats still have a ways to go in winning over everyone. Last week, New York Mayor Eric Adams introduced Kathleen Corradi, a former elementary school teacher and anti-rat activist, as his new rat czar" whose job is to battle potentially millions of rats lurking about the city.

The city's help-wanted ad for the post stated it was seeking applicants who are bloodthirsty, possess killer instincts and could commit to the wholesale slaughter of rats. At her first news conference in her job, Corradi, standing next to Adams, stated her hatred of rats and vowed to use science to rid the city of them.

Rats can spread disease like leptospirosis, which on rare occasions can lead to meningitis and cause the kidneys and liver to fail.

Izzy Szott, a behavioral research scientist at the Tanzania-based organization APOPO, which is training the rats to work for governments, said she was not surprised to hear rats had been named enemy No. 1, but she wants people to know the full picture. Her hope is having ambassador rats at renowned zoos, like San Diego's, will lead to more understanding and support for rat research.

New York City spokesman Fabien Levy called his citys rats dirty, diseased and a public health risk that the city is intent on ridding itself of using humane techniques where possible. But he added: Our priority remains our citys residents, not its rodents.

Rats in general, Szott said, actually are quite clean animals," adding that they groom themselves constantly and often affectionately lick their trainers' arms after getting a good scratching.

Szott said rats often get a bad rap," but that it's important to consider our responsibility towards the wildlife around us and that we share the planet with.

We need to understand the capabilities that these animals have and see them in a humane way and treat them in a humane way, she added.

African giant pouched rats have sniffed out more than 150,000 landmines to date, according to her organization. They've also helped health clinics in Africa diagnose people with tuberculosis, detecting the bacteria in the sputum samples of 25,000 patients.

At their facility in Morogoro, Tanzania, Szott and the other researchers are also working on training the rats to someday aid in the detection of contaminated soil or help rescuers in finding people trapped under the rubble after earthquakes and explosions. The rats, which can be dispatched into hard-to-reach areas, have been outfitted with tiny vests with a pendant they can pull to send an alert to their handlers when they find a person. So far they have succeeded in alerting their handler when given such a task in a mock disaster setting, Szott said.

And Szott said she believes someday they could be a regular fixture at some ports and airports, offering a cheaper option to drug-and-explosive-sniffing dogs. One of her program's rats has already shown they can sniff out multiple species, she said, adding that they could be used to stop the trafficking of elephant ivory and rhino horn.

New York City's common brown rats share the same traits, but their shorter lifespan makes them unlikely candidates for such trainings, Szott said. African rats can live up to a decade whereas small brown rats only live for a few years.

We think they make great zoo additions, she said of the African rats, adding that the ambassadors will broaden people's understanding of just how smart they are and how we can co-exist with them.
Reddit said it plans to start charging companies for access to its API, which some AI companies use to train their AI models. Zach Gibson/Getty Images

Reddit said it plans to start charging companies for access to its data that is used to train AI.

Major players in the AI race like OpenAI, Microsoft, and Google train AI models using Reddit's data, NYT reported.

Reddit's CEO told the Times that Reddit doesn't need to give away its data to tech giants "for free."

Reddit knows its data is valuable in the AI race  and now it plans to charge companies for access to it.

"We are introducing a new premium access point for third parties who require additional capabilities, higher usage limits, and broader usage rights," Reddit announced on its blog.

A Reddit spokesperson told Insider that as the company "expands globally, we are working to create a more sustainable, healthy ecosystem around data."

The spokesperson said Reddit is currently working on finalizing costs for access to its API, or application programming interface  the way two software programs communicate with each other.

"The Reddit corpus of data is really valuable," Steve Huffman, cofounder and CEO of Reddit, told The Times. "But we don't need to give all of that value to some of the largest companies in the world for free."

Companies such as OpenAI, Microsoft, and Google, who are all developing generative AI models, have used their access to Reddit's API to train their LLMs, or large language models, including ChatGPT, The New York Times reported.

OpenAI, Microsoft, nor Google immediately responded to Insider's request for comment ahead of publication.

Huffman told The Times that data from Reddit is constantly new, making it valuable for models to give better and more relevant answers.

"More than any other place on the internet, Reddit is a home for authentic conversation," Huffman said. "There's a lot of stuff on the site that you'd only ever say in therapy, or AA, or never at all."

The company said its "data API will still be open for reasonable and appropriate use cases and accessible" on its developer platform. Huffman told The Times that Reddit's API will still be free for developers building applications to help people with using Reddit. Researchers using Reddit's data for studying or other noncommercial reasons will also have free access, The Times reported.

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Most developers and third parties who use Reddit's API have been notified by email, the company said.

"Crawling Reddit, generating value and not returning any of that value to our users is something we have a problem with," Huffman told The Times. "It's a good time for us to tighten things up."

Read the original article on Business Insider
Redmond police re-arrested a man last week for allegedly having sexual contact with minors, the police department announced Monday.

Buckland Darrell, 44, was arrested on April 11 and charged with four counts of first-degree child molestation involving three victims. He is being held in the King County Jail on $500,000 bail.

Redmond police detectives previously arrested Darrell in March after he allegedly had sexual contact with a boy in 2020 while attending a church in Redmond. Darrell was also arrested for child molestation involving another victim in December 2022. He was released on bail in both cases.

According to Redmond police, the cases are all similar in that they involve boys under the age of 12, and the incidents happened near or in the presence of the victims family members. The three most recent victims are also affiliated with the same Redmond church.

After his arrest, Darrell told police there were more victims but did not provide names or details.

Police said Darrell has attended many church events and gatherings over the last decade and believe there could be more victims. The Redmond Police Department asks anyone with information to contact their tip line at 425-556-2500.
On Sunday, the father of 16-year-old Ralph Yarl stood in front of the house where an 84-year-old man shot his son in the head and the arm and said, in a reserved voice among a chanting crowd of protesters, that he just wanted justice for his son.

On Monday, Clay Countys top prosecutor announced charges of first-degree assault and armed criminal action against the homeowner, Andrew D. Lester.

This is such a relief, Paul Yarl, Ralphs father, told The Star about an hour after the charges were made public. Im happy. This is what weve been looking for. Its here.

Yarls attorney advised him not to comment on any specific charges, but on Monday, Zachary Thompson noted that the assault charge is a class A felony which means, if found guilty, Lester faces at least 10 years and up to 30 years or life in prison.

The teen was shot Thursday when he mistakenly went to pick his younger twin brothers up from the wrong home in the Northland, going to the 1100 block of 115th Street instead of 115th Terrace, family and police said.

Though he was critically wounded, Ralph Yarl was released from the hospital on Sunday, his father said, and he remains at his mothers Kansas City home recovering.

Hes responsive. Hes responding and its a slow recovery, but hes making good progress, Paul Yarl said Monday evening.

While Ralph Yarl did walk from the hospital lobby to a vehicle when he was released, he needs to sit tight for awhile, Paul Yarl said.

The focus is on healing, and we havent reached the point of asking him to talk or walk around, he added.

There are signs of hope. When a former teacher of Ralph Yarls at Hawthorn Elementary School recently reached out asking the familys permission to speak publicly about her former student, Paul Yarl said his son smiled and said, Of course.

As Ralph Yarl heals with the help of his mother, a nurse who is taking time off work to be by his side, his younger siblings are staying with a family member.

Story continues

They need to heal too, Paul Yarl said. Theyre in shock.

In the past four days, Ralphs Yarls story and name has traveled from the mouths of Kansas Citians to the mouth of the leader of the United States. Civil rights attorney Ben Crump said President Joe Biden spoke to Yarl and his family for about 20 minutes on Monday, telling him that he and the entire country are praying for him.

Yarls aunt, Faith Spoonmore, started a GoFundMe Sunday to raise money for Ralphs medical bills and other expenses. As of Monday evening, more than $2 million had been raised.

We are grateful, and I know Ralph is grateful too for the love and prayers and support, Paul Yarl said.

Most of all, hes grateful that his son is still on this Earth.

We didnt lose him, Yarl said. Hes still here.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 18)  Government officials and ambassadors of various nations paid tribute to the late former Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Albert del Rosario, whom they described as a real patriot and champion of Philippine sovereignty.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. sent his condolences to the loved ones of Del Rosario  the countrys top diplomat when Manila took Beijing to court over its sweeping claims in the South China Sea  describing him as an honorable and esteemed public servant.

We thank his deep commitment to our national interest and his unwavering devotion to our shared values, Marcos said.

House Speaker Martin Romualdez and Deputy Speaker Ralph Recto also looked back at Del Rosarios legacy as a staunch defender of the countrys territory.

There was no better advocate of Philippine interest, no braver defender of our OFWs (overseas Filipino workers), no bolder champion of our sovereignty than him when he was the republic's top diplomat, Recto said.

Senators Joel Villanueva and Chiz Escudero both remembered Del Rosario as their colleague during the Aquino administration, adding that the late officials achievements will forever be part of Philippine history.

Senate Minority Leader Koko Pimentel meanwhile highlighted how Del Rosario helped make the countrys foreign service more active and felt.

He also contributed to the growth of the private sector through his contributions in the insurance sector where he was a stalwart, Pimentel said.

Del Rosario died on Tuesday while en route to San Francisco, according to the DFA. His family has yet to provide further details about his death.

Meanwhile, ambassadors and embassies of different countries, including the United States, Japan, Canada, and Germany, also expressed their sympathies.

His leadership to uphold the rule of law in the sea will never be forgotten, Japanese Ambassador to Manila Kazuhiko Koshikawa said.
The body of one of two best friends and business partners from East Point who vanished in February has been identified.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation said a second set of remains is in the process of being identified.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Jason Salter and Kenny Guerra were last seen together on Feb. 25 in East Point. The two men are both fathers and own Rockstar Lifestyle Print Shop in South Fulton County.

TRENDING STORIES:

According to friends, Salters Altima was found in the parking lot of a Family Dollar and Guerras BMW was found at a southwest Atlanta apartment complex.

On Monday, the Fulton County Medical Examiner told Channel 2s Matt Johnson that remains found on a farm in the Chattahoochee Hills area on March 11 have been identified as Salter, who was 39. Guerra has not been identified.

The farm where the bodies were found is about 25 miles away from East Point.

Scientists are conducting DNA processing on the second set of remains to get an identification, the GBI said.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation said they are investigating Salters death as a homicide, but they have not released his cause of death.

Family members described Salter and Guerra as pillars of the community.

They were very special and loved in the community, Jasons sister said. They didnt have enemies that we know of.

Family members urged the public to contact the GBI with any information about the case that could help determine what happened and who is responsible.

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Police have not identified any suspects in the mens disappearance and Salters death.




Rep. Paul Gosar, R-Ariz., linked to an article with a headline referencing Jewish warmongers from a website with a history of antisemitic content in his House newsletter published Sunday.

The link pushed readers to a story about the war in Ukraine from Veterans Today, an outlet that provides a platform for Holocaust denial and antisemitic content, according to the Anti-Defamation League.

The headline was listed in Gosar's newsletter as "Congressman Gosar: Warmongers Nuland & Blinken 'Are Dangerous Fools Who Can Get Us All Killed,'" leaving out the Veterans Today headline's reference to Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Undersecretary of State for Political Affairs Victoria Nuland being Jewish.

The Veterans Today website displays a different headline: "Congressman: Jewish warmongers Nuland & Blinken 'Are Dangerous Fools Who Can Get Us All Killed.'"

Media Matters was the first to report on Gosar's inclusion of the link. The website also noted that the article appears to be republished from the Russian-funded outlet Sputnik, which did not refer to Judaism in the headline.

Gosar did not immediately respond to NBC News' request for comment.

Blinken and Nuland have both repeatedly expressed support for Ukraine. The U.S. has provided Ukraine with more than $35 billion dollars in security assistance, according to the State Department. Gosar has vocally opposed giving additional aid to Ukraine.

The congressman's original comments referred to in the article were made at the end of February and did not refer to Judaism.

Both Nuland and Blinken have a deeply rooted irrational hatred of Russia, and they seek to get the US involved in another world war, Gosar tweeted on Feb. 23. These are dangerous fools who can get us all killed.

Gosar has come under criticism for speaking at a gathering of white nationalists and posting a video that depicted him killing Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y. The House voted to censure Gosar and remove him from his congressional committee assignments in 2021 over the Ocasio-Cortez video, but he was reinstated after Republicans took over the House this year.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
North Carolina lawmakers are set to consider a bill Wednesday that would grant the Republican-led General Assembly more control over the 58-campus community college system, taking away power from the governor, members of the Council of State and local leaders.

The bill would also give the system president more power while reducing the authority of the community college governing board.

Republican sponsors say the bill will lead to a more effective and coordinated system, but Democrats see it as a detrimental power transfer.

Senate Bill 692, or the Community College Governance bill, builds upon House Bill 149, which passed the Senate. If passed into law, HB 149 would reassign the final decision on naming the community college system president from the State Board of Community Colleges to the Republican-led General Assembly, as previously reported by The News & Observer.

The proposals come as the state board is without a permanent president and is seeking a replacement for Thomas Stith, who resigned as president in July. Bill Carver is serving as the interim president.

As it is now, the board would select the new president, with a hiring choice expected soon.

Power transfer

In August, the board created a presidential search committee tasked with picking and interviewing candidates before inviting the full board to interview finalists and vote. The committee was to attempt to complete the search process by January 2023, according to the community colleges website.

By giving the final say to the General Assembly, SB 692 could affect that hiring process.

The board currently has authority to adopt and administer all policies, regulations, and standards which it deems necessary for the operation of the community college system, according to law. The board appoints and can kick out the system president.

Under SB 692, the power to appoint the president would transfer from the board to the General Assembly.

The president would also become the systems chief administrative officer and hold executive authority over the system, shifting much decision-making power from the board to the president.

Story continues

Administrative tasks shifting from the board to the president would include reviewing reports and programs related to the success of community college students who transfer to a UNC System school and making recommendations for programs and courses of study, according to a news release sent out by Senate Republicans.

In the news release, Republicans wrote that this bill empowers the next Community Colleges System President to have a greater say in the administration of the System and allows the president to deploy resources more effectively across North Carolina and allows our community colleges to work together in a coordinated approach.

Republicans wrote that the board had been bogged down by making administrative decisions better handled by the president and staff.

Republican Sen. Amy Galey  a main sponsor of the bill and Senate Education Committee chairwoman  told The News & Observer Monday that the current system is not working as well as it should or could. The most important thing is that we have an educated workforce.

Its time to start talking about it, and its time to start addressing the systemic problems in the community college system that make it not as responsive to the needs of prospective employers as it should be.

Other main bill sponsors are Republican Sens. Todd Johnson and Tom McInnis. Senate leader Phil Berger is among its co-sponsors.

Strip governors power?

SB 692 would also strip Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper of the power to appoint 10 members to the state board and reassign this authority to the General Assembly, adding to the eight members it can already elect.

In recent years, the Republican-led legislature has made gains in carving away power from Cooper and his successors, most recently with a law that removes direct oversight of the states three residential schools for blind and deaf students from the State Board of Education, largely made up of Cooper appointees. Earlier this year, a Republican law took effect limiting his and future governors powers to issue and continue executive orders.

Sam Chan, a spokesperson for Cooper, wrote that North Carolinas economic development has set records over the last few years and this bill will significantly damage our job recruiting efforts if a Governor has no appointments to any community college boards.

At the campus level, the bill reduces college trustee boards to 12 members, down from 13, by doing away with a nonvoting seat for a student representative.

Trustee member appointment would also change: eight would be appointed by the General Assembly and four by the local county board of commissioners. As of now, four trustees are appointed by the local school boards, four by county commissioners and four by the governor, with one representing the student body.

The Governor is the chief economic recruiter for the state, community college workforce training is a critical part of coordinated job recruitment and it makes no sense to destroy a system that is working well simply to gain political power, Chan wrote. This move will hurt North Carolina long after Governor Cooper leaves office and we urge legislators not to pass this harmful legislation.

According to the states constitution, the General Assembly shall provide for the selection of trustees of The University of North Carolina and of the other institutions of higher education. Galey pointed to that language and said that when the community college system was taken from under the oversight of of the State Board of Education in the early 1980s, it was a clear violation of the Constitution.

The bill would also reduce state board membership from 22 to 21 this summer and to 18 by 2027. Appointed members would no longer have to include a member to represent the six different regions of the state, and there would no longer be a member representing students.

By 2027, the state treasurer, labor commissioner and lieutenant governor would also be eliminated from the panel.

Decision made in a vacuum

Sen. Jay Chaudhuri, the Senate Democratic whip, said this bill is probably the most significant (change) in the last quarter century.

It would have made sense to have had a commission to examine best practices around the country in a bipartisan fashion and then present and discuss those recommendations so were not making change without stakeholder input, he said, What are the opinions of local community colleges? Whats the opinion of the governors office? Whats the opinion of the business community? Whats the opinion of students that attend community colleges?

This appears to be a decision that was made in a vacuum without any input from stakeholders, and its difficult to get buy-in for such a significant overhaul of the community college system without the necessary input from those stakeholders, he said.

Galey, asked by The N&O about what the bill drafting process was like and whether those affected had a say, said she did not have any comment about that.

Senate Democrats voted against HB 149, which was rolled into Senate Bill 692.

Chaudhuri said Democrats had seen this play for power by Republicans before, with the UNC System. The systems governing board is entirely appointed by members of the states Republican-majority General Assembly.

Boards of trustees at the systems member universities are elected in part by the UNC Board of Governors and in part by the General Assembly.

The governor was previously able to make some university appointments; that power was stripped from the office in a 2016 law passed as former Republican Gov. Pat McCrory left office and Cooper entered, as previously reported by The N&O.

Galey said that feedback to her on the bill had come from individuals concerned that they wont be appointed or reappointed, rather than anyone saying why structurally, it shouldnt be done.

I havent heard anybody offering alternatives. Galey said.

She said she had not talked to the governor or anyone on his staff but had heard from people at the local level, such as school boards, concerned about losing their appointment ability.

Galey said she had no plans to amend the bill and that she would like to hear what the critics had to say about the constitutional language on appointment power.
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Senate Republicans will block Democrats' plans to temporarily replace Senator Dianne Feinstein on the committee that approves federal judges, the chamber's top Republican, Mitch McConnell, said on Tuesday.

That would make it harder for Democrats to confirm President Joe Biden's appointments to the federal judiciary until Feinstein, 89, returns to the Capitol after having been sidelined by a bout of shingles since early March.

"Senate Republicans will not take part in sidelining a temporarily absent colleague off a committee just so Democrats can force through their very worst nominees," McConnell, himself just returned from a five-week-long medical absence, said in a speech on the Senate floor.

Feinstein on Wednesday said she would temporarily step down from her spot on the Senate Judiciary Committee while she recovers at her home in San Francisco.

Top Senate Democrat Chuck Schumer said he would ask the chamber this week to allow another Democratic senator to temporarily serve on the Judiciary Committee while she recuperates.

Any replacement would need Republican support for approval, something McConnell said would not materialize.

Feinstein's absence reduces Democrats' narrow majority in the chamber by one to 50-49. Fellow Senate Democrat Amy Klobuchar on Sunday warned that Democrats could need that vote on critical issues like the debt ceiling.

Feinstein's absence prevents her from voting in the Senate, where she has not cast a vote since mid-February.

The trail-blazing California lawmaker faces continued calls from some fellow Democrats to resign her seat due to health problems.

(Reporting by Katharine Jackson and Moira Warburton; Editing by Scott Malone and David Gregorio)
Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Chairman Gary Gensler defended his aggressive regulatory agenda from a wave of Republican attacks during Tuesdays House Financial Services Committee hearing.

Republicans blasted the SECs lawsuits against cryptocurrency firms under Genslers tenure and accused him of refusing to comply with congressional requests for documents.

GOP lawmakers on the panel took aim at Genslers proposed market overhauls, including regulations to tighten rules for crypto firms and mandate disclosure of public companies climate change risk. They noted that Gensler has proposed more than twice as many rules as his predecessors.

Flashback: Gensler compares cryptocurrency market, regulations to wild west

Tuesday marked Genslers first appearance before the panel since October 2021, and his first under GOP control of the House.

Gensler made the case that U.S. capital markets are the strongest and most secure in the world because of its robust rules. He said that new innovations are putting investors at risk, spurring the need for updated rules.

The SEC is the cop on the beat watching out for your constituents, he told lawmakers.

Republicans grill Gensler on crypto

Securities and Exchange Commission Chairman Gary Gensler answers questions during a House Financial Services Committee oversight hearing of the SEC on Tuesday, April 18, 2023. (The Hill)

Rep. Patrick McHenry (R-N.C.), the committees chairman, blasted Genslers SEC for launching more than 50 enforcement actions against crypto companies.

He said its irresponsible for the SEC to sue the firms for failing to register with the SEC when the law isnt clear about if certain digital assets are securities or commodities. The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has sparred with the SEC over which agency has authority over certain cryptocurrencies.

Crypto meltdown: Crypto faces a crisis of confidence amid FTX collapse

Youre punishing digital asset firms for allegedly not adhering to the law when they dont know it will apply to them. Its nonsensical, McHenry told Gensler.

When pressed by McHenry to define whether ethereum, the second-largest cryptocurrency, is a security or a commodity, Gensler refused to answer, only stating that a token is a security when investors expect a profit from it.

Story continues

Theres a lack of clarity here in the marketplace. Can you at least agree to that? McHenry said.

Gensler responded that its clear the SEC has the authority to regulate crypto, leaving McHenry visibly frustrated.

Does it concern you that your approach to the digital asset industry is actually driving this industry out of the United States? Rep. Tom Emmer (R-Minn.), a top crypto ally, asked Gensler.

Im trying to drive it to compliance and if theyre not complying with the laws then they shouldnt be offering their products to U.S. investors, Gensler responded.

The crypto industry has lashed out at Gensler, accusing him of creating a hostile environment for crypto that is forcing digital asset firms, including failed crypto exchange FTX, to move their operations abroad.

Gensler told lawmakers that the crypto market is rife with noncompliance and insisted that the SEC doesnt need additional authority from Congress to regulate crypto.

This noncompliance not only puts investors at risk, but also puts at risk the publics trust in our capital markets, Gensler said.

The crypto industry has suffered from a wave of bankruptcies that have undermined public confidence in digital assets.

Disgraced FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried worked closely with lawmakers to draft a bill intended to be first comprehensive crypto regulatory law, which would have handed enforcement to the CFTC rather than the more powerful SEC.

Rep. Brad Sherman (Calif.), the top Democrat on the capital markets subcommittee, said that lawmakers should pass legislation to categorize all crypto assets as securities.

That way it would be very clear that investors in crypto get the same protection as investors in stock, bonds and other intangible assets acquired for an investment purpose, Sherman said.

Business groups also fighting SEC agenda

Traffic moves along along 99 south in Fresno, Calif., Dec. 28, 2017. (John Walker/The Fresno Bee via AP)

Republicans are largely allied with corporate America in their push to delay, modify or scrap SEC proposals that they say would undermine U.S. competitiveness.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce sent a recent letter to the committee taking aim at Genslers aggressive regulatory agenda, noting that his 53 proposed regulations are twice as many rules as his predecessor in just half the time.

The barrage of rulemaking at the SEC is unprecedented and merits the close scrutiny of Congress, Tom Quaadman, executive vice president of the Chambers Center for Capital Markets Competitiveness, told lawmakers.

Quaadman, who provided lawmakers with a list of questions for Gensler, cited an October SEC inspector general report raising concerns about the agencys ability to carry out the large number of proposals. The report pointed to attrition among SEC staffers.

I get the impression from personnel across the SEC that there are concerns about the high volume and the fast pace of this rulemaking. Lets try to get it right, not get it done in a hurry, Rep. Frank Lucas (R-Okla.) told Gensler on Tuesday.

The National Association of Manufacturers sent a letter to committee members Tuesday criticizing the climate disclosure rule, arguing that it would substantially increase compliance costs and legal risks for public companies.

The lobbying group called on the SEC to ax a provision that would place new reporting burdens on private businesses that are part of a public companys supply chain.

Gensler said Tuesday that the SEC is taking those comments into consideration when crafting its rule. He said that the rule is not intended to put obligations on nonpublic companies.

Weve gotten 15,000 comments. On the investors side, its almost uniformly supportive of mandating climate risk disclosures, Gensler told lawmakers.

Democrats largely defended Gensler throughout the hearing, urging him to ensure the proposed rules remain strong following public comment periods.

These reforms are not being rushed. They are long overdue, said Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.), the committees ranking member. Meanwhile, Republicans are eager to rush forward with measures that would deregulate our capital markets.

Republicans rip Gensler over transparency

Rep. Bill Huizenga (R-Mich.) asks questions during a House Financial Services Committee oversight hearing of the largest U.S. banks on Wednesday, September 21, 2022. (The Hill)

Throughout the tense hearing, Republicans expressed frustration that Gensler wouldnt give them straight answers. They added that Gensler has failed to adhere to congressional inquiries.

Rep. Bill Huizenga (R-Mich.) said that when he asked for documents relating to the SECs rule to mandate disclosure of climate-related risks, the agency provided only publicly available information, including a letter from Huizenga and McHenry congratulating Gensler on his confirmation.

I have that one in my file already, Huizenga told Gensler. Frankly, its insufficient and unacceptable what has been going on.

Huizenga and McHenry also sent a recent letter to Gensler requesting more information about the SECs charges against Bankman-Fried. Republicans have accused him of failing to prevent FTXs collapse.

Gensler said Tuesday that he is obliged to keep investigative matters confidential.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Former President Donald Trump and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell dont agree on much, but theres still one thing that unites them: A disdain for the Club for Growth.

The conservative anti-tax group is once again at the center of an intraparty collision course. This time, its going up against two of the most powerful people in the GOP  the former president and the Senate minority leader  right as the party is struggling to fix its electability problems and with control of the upper chamber on the line.

The Club is positioning itself against the National Republican Senatorial Committee in the three states that are most key to retaking the majority: West Virginia, Montana and Ohio. Privately some top party operatives and McConnell-aligned strategists worry the Club's recruits, who are typically conservative hardliners, could struggle to win competitive races. The fear is that, at best, the group is creating unnecessarily messy primaries. At worst it is blowing another shot at retaking the majority.

Even lawmakers keeping an open mind about how the Club approaches the current cycle dont hide their concern over the group's past tactics.

"There's a lot of work to be done on understanding the main goal is not to make a point on any one political issue, but to win," said Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), against whom the Club once tried to recruit a primary challenger.



But the Club hasnt been content merely to cross Senate GOP leaders. The group has launched an offensive against Trump too, raising the spectre that a primary that was already destined to be brutal could end up bloody. In recent weeks, Trump has returned the volley, privately indicating that he would be far less likely to endorse down ballot candidates who are allied with the Club, according to two people close to the Trump campaign.

While it has never been known as a go-along-to-get-along institution, the Club has been increasingly embracing its position as party antagonist. And it enters the cycle with two powerful foes.

Story continues

"It goes with the role, because if we weren't willing to take some incoming and people not liking us, we couldn't do our job," said David McIntosh, the group's president. Asked whether it was more important to elect candidates with the group's political philosophy or to take back the majority, McIntosh said the former. "We have both goals, he explained. But the primary one is that focus on the economic conservatives."

For many in GOP circles, the Clubs talents lie not in its ability to win elections but to generate attention. For that reason, theyre often loath to engage publicly with the group. But McIntosh insists that the organizations motivation is fealty to principle. And if that means angering bigwigs, hes comfortable with it.

He began the cycle by briefing reporters that Trumps toxicity was hurting the partys chances with swing voters and announcing that the group had not invited him to its annual donor retreat. Then, he outlined his plans to zero in on key Senate races.

In West Virginia, the Club announced it will spend at least $10 million to boost Republican Rep. Alex Mooney just as GOP recruiters are on the cusp of convincing the wealthy and popular Gov. Jim Justice to run. In Montana, the group is nudging Republican Rep. Matt Rosendale, who lost to Sen. Jon Tester (D-Mont.) in 2018, to make another go while the NRSC has been heavily recruiting Tim Sheehy, a Navy SEAL and wealthy businessperson.



And in Ohio, the Club is beseeching GOP Rep. Warren Davidson to take on Democratic Sen. Sherrod Brown in what is already an extremely crowded field.

In 2020, Trump carried all three states. In 2024, they represent Republicans best opportunity to retake the Senate. All three of the Club's preferred candidates in these states are members of the conservative House Freedom Caucus with profiles that might not endear them to swing voters in a general election.

And there is fear elsewhere in the party that those candidates or a divided primary will only boost the three veteran Democratic incumbents in those races.

"That's an old shopworn line that the moderates have used for 20 years. And the data shows they're wrong," McIntosh said in dismissing those concerns. "The milquetoast kind of establishment Republicans actually do worse."

But inside the NRSC, operatives are desperately trying to lock in candidates with broad appeal. One example: They have been trying to recruit Justice, a coal-mining magnate-turned-West Virginia governor who is increasingly expected to launch a run against Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin.

The Senate Leadership Fund, a super PAC with close ties to McConnell, released a poll showing Justice was the only candidate who could beat Manchin.

Privately, strategists gripe that Mooney, a former Maryland state senator, could face carpetbagger attacks and struggle to fundraise while Justice, who is worth hundreds of millions, could write his own checks. Mooney backers counter that the congressman could easily run to the right of Justice, a Democrat-turned-Republican who supported President Joe Bidens infrastructure bill.

The Club signaled its intent to boost Mooney with that $10 million or more cash infusion and McIntosh said that unless Governor Justice is just dying to be in the Senate he hoped he would sit out the race and bring the whole party together.

Both Justice and Mooney are hoping to claim the MAGA mantle by securing the backing of Trump himself in a state he carried by 39 points in 2020. Justice, who hunts with the former presidents sons, is actively trying to nab Trumps endorsement, according to a person close to the governor. As is Mooney, who endorsed Trump last year. The congressman discussed the race with Trump and is also hoping for his backing, according to a person close to his campaign.

Tensions are running even higher in Montana where the Club is eagerly recruiting Rosendale, a two-term congressman, to take on Tester. Austin Knudsen, the states attorney general, is also weighing a run but many Republicans in D.C. and Montana are excited about a potential campaign by Sheehy, a political neophyte with no record to attack and who could self-fund a bid.

He's a great kid and a good business guy and smart, Rep. Ryan Zinke (R-Mont.) raved about Sheehy. He's going to represent the younger generation.

Rosendale lost to Tester by more than 3 points in 2018 after being branded as a carpetbagger with a noticeable Baltimore accent. Privately, Rosendale has told friends and allies that he plans to run for Senate, according to a person familiar with his plans. Publicly, he has remained noncommittal, and he raised just $127,000in the first quarter and spent more than that.

Jon Tester does not represent the state of Montana, Rosendale said in response to a question about his Senate plans. The voters in Montana will make a decision over the next 12 to 18 months on who they want to replace him.

Asked why Rosendale would fare better against Tester six years later, McIntosh said the Club depleted its resources boosting him in the primary in 2018 and blamed Republican leaders for failing to come in for the general election.

I am now very aware of that, and realize I can't count on McConnell, because honestly, I don't think his motive is simply to get the majority, McIntosh said. It is frustrating to watch the establishment not fund somebody and then say, Oh, they couldn't win.



Trump looms large in Montana. Rosendale has notably declined to endorse him, telling POLITICO he planned to remain neutral. Yet he traipsed to Mar-A-Lago to attend Trumps post-indictment rally earlier this month  a move that befuddled some consultants in the former presidents orbit.

The former presidents campaign is closely tracking which members have endorsed him, according to two people close to the operation. Those people note that Republican operatives who want to dissuade Trump from backing an opposing candidate send Trump's team news clips showing the Clubs support for that candidate.

The Club, which spent some $150 million in the past two elections, is still a major player in Republican politics and has close ties to many of the partys top donors. Its spending is dwarfed by that of the Senate Leadership Fund but it will have the resources to cause headaches in primaries.

Some of its candidates would be well-positioned, if not favored, in a primary. But in others the path to victory is less clear. In Ohio, the group is pushing Davidson, a fourth-term member, to enter a field already crowded with wealthy businessmen.

It's safe to say I'm actually very actively looking at the race every day, Davidson said in an interview. I would clearly be the conservative.

The group hasnt always been on a different page from national Republicans. Both the Club and Trump aligned to support Blake Masters in 2022, with the Club spending more than $3 million to push Masters through a crowded primary. But Masters went on to lose to Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.).

They didn't do a really great job last time around, Sen. Mitt Romney (R-Utah) said of the Club. Their folks were underperformers and I just think people are tired of the anger and the vitriol and actually want to see people get along and get some things done.

The Club did not back some of the other notable 2022 Senate losers, such as Don Bolduc in New Hampshire or Herschel Walker in Georgia. And it has had some success in boosting candidates to Congress, notably current Sen. Ted Budd, who won an open seat in North Carolina in 2022 with both Trumps backing and the groups support.

I think theyve really tried to get fiscally responsible people to win Senate races, said Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.), another Club-backed candidate. They were very influential in Ted Budd winning the primary and the general last time.
[Source]

Scientists have shed light on the multiethnic and mysterious Xiongnu empire, Mongolia's ancient nomadic society that reigned from circa 200 BCE to 100 CE and purportedly pushed imperial China to build the Great Wall.

The tribes of Xiongnu were considered the main threat by Emperor Qin Shi Huang during the 3rd century BCE Qin Dynasty when he decided to defend unified China with the concept of a Great Wall. The emperor began work on the wall in 221 BCE by connecting a number of existing defensive walls along the northern border of China into a single system. The wall was further strengthened against the Xiongnu during the reign of the Han emperor Wudi (14187 BCE).

In a new study published in the journal Science Advances, an international research team revealed details regarding the society's community structure after analyzing ancient DNA and archaeological findings from two separate burial grounds. The first site was an aristocratic elite cemetery at Takhiltyn Khotgor, while the other was a local elite cemetery at Shombuuzyn Belchir.

Previous studies cited by the research team found an "extremely high" level of genetic diversity from the genomes of 17 remains they exhumed, indicating that the group was multiethnic, multicultural, and multilingual. The team's own analysis of 18 individuals of both high and low status  as determined by their burials  corroborated said studies.

More from NextShark: Squid Game star Jung Ho-yeon pays homage to Korean culture with SAG Awards look

According to the scientists, the burial practice also hinted at the ages at which gender and status were ascribed in Xiongnu society.

Women were revealed to have an important and influential role, as they were found to have the highest-status individual graves. They were buried in elaborate coffins that featured golden sun and moon emblems  Xiongnu symbols of power. In one tomb that held the remains of a woman, the scientists also found the remains of six horses and a chariot.

Story continues

Harvard University Associate Professor Christina Warinner, the study's senior author, noted that "children received differential mortuary treatment depending upon age and sex." They found that adolescent boys were buried with bows and arrows, just like adult men, while boys under 11 were not.

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Choongwon Jeong, an associate professor of biological sciences at Seoul National University, shared that members of the Xiongnu society leveraged marriage and kinship to build their empire.

The Xiongnus influence extends to Genghis Khan and his Mongol Empire, among other succeeding nomadic empires.

Bryan Miller, the project archaeologist for the study and assistant professor of Central Asian art and archaeology at the University of Michigan, highlighted such influence in an email to CNN.

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"Xiongnu" was the name of a dynasty not a people, per se; but that dynastic regime greatly impacted the peoples within its realms and left a powerful legacy in Eurasia. Many subsequent groups appropriated the potent name of Xiongnu (or Hunnu) as they established their own regimes, leading to the perpetuation of so-called "Hunnic" entities even as far as that of Attila and the Huns at the edge of Europe centuries after the demise of the Xiongnu in Inner Asia.

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While a Texas resident was on the phone with police, an intruder forced his way into her home, authorities said. That intruder was then shot and killed.

A woman called 911 at about 5:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 18, reporting that a man was breaking into a home in northeast Austin, Cpl. Destiny Silva said during an on-scene news conference shared on Facebook.

The female resident stated that a male was banging on her door and that he was trying to knock the door down and that the resident was trying to hold the door closed, Silva said.

Then, while still on the call with dispatchers, police said she reported that the man was trying to force his way in through a window.

The caller then stated that the male suspect had entered into the home, Silva said. The callers last update was that shots had been fired.

Officers arrived at the home at 5:37 a.m., police said, and EMS arrived shortly after.

The man accused of breaking into the home was pronounced dead about 10 minutes later, Silva said.

This was a very, very tragic incident and one of the residents did shoot the male suspect in self defense, she said.

It is unclear how many people were in the home, and authorities have not said who shot the man.

No charges have been filed, though an investigation is ongoing.

This is the citys 23rd homicide of 2023.

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A retired Springfield Police Department officer spent the last year cleaning two gravestones of men killed by members of the Bonnie and Clyde gang 90 years ago.

Polk County resident and retired SPD officer Ron Hutcheson said the project stemmed after he saw photos of one of the gravestones in a KY3 story about the Bonnie and Clyde murders in Joplin. The depicted gravestone was of John Wesley Harryman Sr. at Saginaw Community Cemetery in Saginaw, about an hour west of Springfield.

Hutcheson said he's been cleaning and restoring gravestones as a hobby for several years. When he saw the state of Harryman's grave, he felt compelled to clean it up.

"I just felt that this officer had been killed in the line of duty and it merited my time to restore it and make a difference," Hutcheson said. "It was just an opportunity to honor a officer that gave the ultimate sacrifice, as they say. Even though its been 90 years, it's worthy of remembering."

Before and after photos of John Wesley Harryman Sr.'s gravestone at the Saginaw Community Cemetery in Saginaw, Missouri. Harryman was a lawman killed by the Bonnie and Clyde gang on April 13, 1933. Polk County resident Ron Hutcheson cleaned the gravestone in time for the 90th anniversary of Harryman's death.

Harryman, known by those close to him as "Wes," died on April 13, 1933 at age 42. At the time of his death, Harryman was serving as the Joplin Police Department Constable. He died of gunshot wounds in his right shoulder and chest, according to the Missouri Law Enforcement Memorial.

This year is the 90th anniversary of the Bonnie and Clyde shootouts in Joplin. Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow were infamous outlaws who traveled throughout the United States with their gang, robbing banks, stores and rural funeral homes, during the Great Depression.

In April 1993, the outlaw couple spent a few weeks in a garage-style apartment on 34th Street in Joplin, robbing a few businesses. A tipped off neighbor reported the outlaws to the Joplin Police Department, but during the couple's escape, Harryman and Police Detective Harry McGinnis were killed, according to the Joplin city website.

While researching information about Harryman online, Hutcheson stumbled across contact information for Harryman's grandson, John Wesley Harryman III. Harryman III, 73, lives in Scottsdale, Arizona.

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Harryman III said his father was 12 years old in 1933 when his father, Harryman Sr., was killed in the shootout. Harryman III's father was one of eight children and their mother never remarried, so many of the children had to get jobs at age 12 or 13 to help support the family without their father.

Harryman III said he never met his grandfather, but his grandmother did help raise him. It was from his older aunts and uncles that he learned about his grandfather.

When Harryman III was 18 years old, his uncle was a guest on "The Joey Bishop Show" to discuss the 1967 film, "Bonnie and Clyde."

"He went on to basically tell the world how the Bonnie and Clyde movie was not very accurate," Harryman III said. "They make Bonnie and Clyde out to be semi-heroes, very attractive people, which they were the opposite of that."

Harryman III's uncle not only had thoughts about the accuracy of the film, but he was unhappy that his father was depicted in it.

The Joplin shootout scene is featured in the film. Two police officers, who are unnamed but are likely Harryman Sr. and McGinnis, sneak up on the outlaw's apartment and are shown killed in combat. Harryman III said the movie was unfavorable for many of his family members during the heyday of its popularity.

Along with Harryman's gravestone, Hutcheson also cleaned and restored the gravestone of McGinnis at Deepwood Cemetery in Nevada, Missouri. Hutcheson said the state of this gravestone was in better condition than Harryman's, so it didn't take as long to clean.

McGinnis was also killed on April 13, 1933, at age 53. McGinnis died of a gunshot wound to his right arm, according to the Missouri Law Enforcement Memorial.

Before and after photos of Harry McGinnis' gravestone at the Deepwood Cemetery in Nevada, Missouri. McGinnis was a police detective killed by the Bonnie and Clyde gang on April 13, 1933. Polk County resident Ron Hutcheson cleaned the gravestone in time for the 90th anniversary of McGinnis' death.

Properly cleaning and restoring gravestones is not a quick and easy process. Hutcheson said he follows the same practice used at the Arlington Cemetery in Washington D.C.

The National Cemetery Administration, under the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, provides an online guide for how to properly clean government-furnished gravestones and markers. The goal of cleaning is not to make a gravestone look new but instead to preserve it.

For gravestones with biological growth, like algae, mildew, moss and lichens, the National Cemetery Administration advises the use of special cleaners, like Prosoco ReVive, Cathedral Stone Bio-Cleaner, Wet and Forget or D/2 Biological Solution. Bleach and chemicals with strong acids or bases should never be used.

In addition to the proper cleaners, Hutcheson said he uses a soft brush and "lots of patience" when cleaning stones.

Hutcheson said he initially restored family gravestones but has begun working on more military gravestones. He recently gained permission from a small cemetery in Greene County and another in Polk County to begin restoring their stones too.

"It's just something that I enjoy, to be alone and the quiet, peacefulness of the rural cemeteries and also appreciate the efforts that the volunteers in these smaller cemeteries go to keep them running for their families or community," Hutcheson said.

This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Graves of men murdered by Bonnie, Clyde cleaned by retired SPD officer
Love and loss, fury and forgiveness are at the heart of Charise Castro Smiths El huracan (The Hurricane), a profoundly insightful and moving play now getting its belated Florida premiere at GableStage.

After a successful world premiere at Yale Repertory Theatre in 2018, El huracan had several other productions, but like nearly everything else in theater, its momentum was disrupted by the pandemic.

But maybe the rough magic referenced in El huracan and William Shakespeares The Tempest, an inspiration for former Miamian Castro Smith, was working overtime to get it to a theater in the playwrights hometown at just the right time with just the right people involved. Certainly, the result is magical and as fine a production as youll see in South Florida all season.

El huracan is a 100-minute play in two parts, with a glamorous Cuban origin story at the beginning and a linking interlude in the middle. It is written in English, but certain words, phrases or speeches are in Spanish. Not a stretch for Miami-area audiences, but the playwright has other characters translate or restate that content.

In the first part, set in 1992, Hurricane Andrew is roaring toward Miami on its path of unfathomable destruction. In the second, 25 years have passed. Some characters have died, only to resurface as spirits; others have been born or matured or now face a frightening future.

When we first meet Valeria (Barbara Bonilla), shes a beautiful up-and-coming magician in pre-revolutionary Cuba, with the handsome Alonso (James Puig) as her assistant (the younger versions of those characters are played by Thais Menendez and Gabriell Salgado).

Then the play shifts to Miami and pre-Andrew urgency, as Valerias middle-aged daughter Ximena (Adriana Sevan) and granddaughter Miranda (Menendez) try to quickly pack Valerias most important things  the items used in her magic act, especially  to keep them safe at Ximenas.

Three things become evident: Alonso, Valerias devoted husband, is nowhere to be found; Ximena and Miranda, a student at Harvard, squabble frequently over their different agendas for Mirandas life; and Valeria is suffering from Alzheimers disease.

Story continues

Frequently, shell have conversations with her long-gone sister Alicia (Emma Garcia Seeger). Now and then, shell put on the top hat from her act, grab a huge bag and announce that shes going out (in the torrential rain) to find Alonso. Ximena diverts Valeria by saying Alonso has gone to the pharmacy and will be back soon; in fact, he left after his wifes diagnosis, unable to bear watching the woman he loved for a lifetime slowly vanish.

Near the end of the first section, as Hurricane Andrew is about to pulverize so much of the world outside Ximenas home, Castro Smith expertly propels the action from lust to tragedy. Miranda and Fernando (Salgado), a neighbors son who was a high school crush, have their own Cuba Libre-fueled hurricane party, one that will have life-changing consequences.

After theyve retired to Mirandas bedroom, Valeria awakens, grabs her hat and bag, and walks out the front door into that peculiar green light that can transform the sky during hurricanes. Hers is the ultimate vanishing act, though she and Alonso surface as spirits unseen by the living after the play jumps to 2017.

Now its Ximena, fierce as ever, who is facing Alzheimers. Her Cuban cousins son Theo (Salgado) is staying with her as he takes the first steps toward forging a life in Miami. Inevitably, he has noticed her memory lapses, agitation and confusion. So an emailed SOS has gone out to Miranda, who left home the day after her grandmothers disappearance. The prodigal daughter returns to her still-furious mother, her own daughter Val (Garcia Seeger) in tow. Expect fireworks and tears.

Castro Smith, coauthor of the Oscar-winning Disney animated movie Encanto, mixes realistic dialogue with evocatively poetic imagery, sometimes crossing into the terrain of magical realism.

One small example, as Alonso is translating what Valeria says in Spanish: As old age floods your mind, hidden away boxes and trunks float to the surface. The things that the river of memory brings back to you sometimes feel random. But they are yours, and theyre home. Love is the only real magic. Although it is sometimes tricky, it is not a trick.

Miami-born director Damaso Rodriguez, who first brought El huracan to the attention of GableStage producing artistic director Bari Newport, has done a superb job of staging a piece with myriad challenges. They include time jumps, characters that are visible to some and invisible to others while making certain that lines spoken in Spanish are contextually clear. And the performances he has helped shape? They are exquisite and tonally cohesive.

Bonilla, seen last season in GableStages Boca, gets a far deeper and more intricate role as Valeria. Now and then, her portrait of a woman in the last stages of Alzheimers is endearing, but as her face goes blank, she becomes utterly heartbreaking.

Sevan played Valeria in the world premiere of El huracan at Yale Rep (and won a critics award for her performance). Her Ximena is a towering achievement, as key to Castro Smiths play as the aging magician Prospero is to The Tempest. Her exhausted, fearful, raging Ximena is an unforgettable portrait of a strong woman shattered by loss and by a disease that would rob her of her memories.

Menendez, who grew up in Miami and is based in Los Angeles, is a beguiling performer who fully inhabits the college-age Miranda (her scenes of drunken flirtation with Salgados Fernando are irresistible). She then transforms before our eyes into a middle-aged woman who is, like her mother before her, now caught between caring for an elder and raising her own daughter.

The self-assured Garcia Seeger, a recent University of Florida grad, impressively meets the challenge of playing three distinct characters. As Alicia, shes a forever-young spirit in a one-piece bathing suit and white swim cap, a source of comfort and guilt to the aging Valeria. As Val, shes lovable and curious about the family she has never met. As the neurologist Dr. Kempler, she is matter-of-fact and professional as she arrives at a diagnosis for Valeria.

As Alonso, Puig has to play notes of adoration and abandonment, defensiveness and the forever-painful realization that leaving when Valeria needed him most was the greatest mistake of his life. He conveys the complexities of his characters actions with a slight nervousness of a man who knows hes doing the wrong thing.

Salgado, who has appeared at many of the regions theaters since making his professional debut as the Creature in Zoetic Stages Frankenstein in 2021, plays two distinct supporting roles in El huracan, but both draw on the young actors comedic ability. His Fernando is a Miami hunk whos a magnet for Miranda. Theo is more serious  indicated by the glasses he wears  and funny as he switches from his Cuban Spanish to the English hes trying to acquire.

Thanks to additional donor support, GableStages budget for El huracan was larger, and it shows. Magician Andre Garre was hired to teach the cast the magic tricks specified in the script, while Jeni Hacker did the brief segments of choreography and intimacy coordination.

Set designer Frank J. Oliva has created Ximenas house as a two-story playing area with walls that, if you look closely, combine old photographs with the imagery of swirling hurricane winds. Jameelah Bailey and Constanza Celci dressed the set and gathered the props that convey place and era.

Lighting designer Blanca Forzan summons a Cuban club with an explosion of brightly colored lights. Sound designer Rodolfo Ortega provides the sudden sounds of Hurricane Andrew, a faint musical underscoring and Frank Sinatra crooning Come Fly With Me. Costume designer Gema Valdes facilitates the plays time travel and provides a beautiful blue halter dress for Valeria, a costume that will link her in youth and the spirit world.

Even before Castro Smiths success with Encanto, she was focusing more on writing for film and television. The movies Oscar (she was co-director as well as co-author) took that career path to a higher level, leaving her far less time for the developmental demands of writing plays and getting them produced.

The point is this: El huracan is a made-for-Miami play. It will resonate here most deeply, and its a thoroughly engaging story being given a great production. It will be at GableStage through May 14  and then poof, like Valeria, it will be gone.

ArtburstMiami.com is a nonprofit source of theater, dance, visual arts, music and performing arts news.

If you go

WHAT: El huracan by Charise Castro Smith

WHERE: GableStage in the Biltmore Hotel, 1200 Anastasia Ave., Coral Gables

WHEN: 2 and 7 p.m. Wednesday, 8 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday (additional matinee May 13), through May 14 (streaming version available during regular performances April 21-May 14)

COST: $45-$75 (streaming ticket $27)

INFORMATION: 305-445-1119 or gablestage.org.










Senior Chinese diplomat meets with Lao deputy prime minister

Xinhua) 09:40, April 18, 2023

BEIJING, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Wang Yi, director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, met with Lao Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Saleumxay Kommasith in Beijing on Monday.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, called on the two sides to implement the strategic consensus reached by the top leaders of the two parties and countries, carry forward the traditional friendship, deepen political mutual trust, and synergize development strategies to lift bilateral ties to a new level.

"China is ready to work with Laos to uphold ASEAN centrality, uphold open regionalism, safeguard our shared home, and create a better environment for regional development and revitalization," Wang said.

For his part, Saleumxay said Laos is ready to strengthen cooperation with China in various fields, jointly build a high-quality Belt and Road, construct a Laos-China community with a shared future, and promote the development of the cause of socialism.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Wu Chaolan)
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 18)  The internal review on police officials supposedly linked to illegal drugs is expected to conclude in around two weeks, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said on Tuesday.

"I think in another two weeks or so, we'll be able to finish that. We'll be able to review all of that," Marcos said during a joint meeting with peace and order councils.

"It's a very complicated system, and it's a very complicated situation. Hindi naman tayo pwedeng umaksyon on the basis ng tsismis [We cannot act just on the basis of rumors]. We cannot move on that basis. We have to be very careful because we have to [be] fair. It has to be just," he added.

According to the Presidential Communications Office, Marcos appealed to Philippine National Police (PNP) members to work with his administration, noting that he has an obligation to address the drug problem.

Marcos also instructed the national and local peace and order councils to address violence by drug syndicates over turf wars.

"It stems from the territorial fights over areas where drugs are distributed, (and) who controls the drug trade in that area," he said.

In January, Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos appealed to ranking PNP officials to submit courtesy resignations in a bid to cleanse the ranks of illegal drug ties.

Last week, 49 police personnel were found criminally and administratively liable for the 6.7-billion shabu (local version of methamphetamine hydrochloride) haul and "cover-up" in October last year.

Marcos also ordered the councils to address political violence, which he said is among the biggest concerns threatening peace and order.

"They happened just after the election and they just... halos sunod-sunod. Kaya't naging very prominent sa pag-iisip ng taong-bayan na masyado na talagang naging malala ito," Marcos stressed.

[Translation: These happened almost one after the other. So it became very prominent in the minds of the people that it really got worse.]

Authorities earlier reported a string of political violence, involving the assassination or attempts to kill local officials.
Pathogenesis: A History of the World in Eight Plagues, by Jonathan Kennedy (Crown)

Great historical changes are often conceived of as being brought about by the genius and tenacity of great men, or occasionally women, but Jonathan Kennedy argues in his book Pathogenesis: A History of the World in Eight Plagues, that germs are largely responsible for everything from the decline of the Neanderthals to the current poverty of sub-Saharan Africa.

His quick history of the world from the Paleolithic to the present day offers a different lens to view many of the big events of the past. Some of Kennedy's conclusions are mere speculation, like his idea that deadly plagues in the Roman empire led to the swift rise of Christianity. In the midst of so much death, he argues, the new religion offered a more enticing view of the afterlife than paganism.

Most of his observations are bolstered by more historical research and are more convincing. In showing how pathogens helped the Spanish conquer Central and South America, Kennedy explains that European diseases including smallpox and measles killed or incapacitated most of the native population, which had no immunity to the previously unknown germs. One outbreak in 1545 alone is estimated to have killed up to 80% of the Indigenous peoples of Mesoamerica.

The death and destruction also accelerated their religious conversion as many of the remaining Indigenous peoples, along with the Spanish, saw it as proof that the Christian God was superior, Kennedy argues.

On the other side of the Atlantic, Kennedy explains how resistance to infectious disease  especially the malaria and yellow fever prevalent in parts of sub-Saharan Africa  boosted the slave trade. Disease-resistant Africans were less likely to die on the new world plantations than Europeans, and much of the native population had already been wiped out. The subsequent association of Africans with slavery contributed to the ideology of white supremacy that continues to impact the way African Americans are treated today, Kennedy argues.

Story continues

The presence of malaria and yellow fever also prevented Europeans from colonizing the African interior, but only for a time. That changed when quinine was discovered to help prevent death from malaria. But because the rates of death and disease were still high, the colonies attracted desperate and ruthless individuals with a desire to make a quick fortune and get out. It was disease, Kennedy argues, that helped create the harshly extractive colonial economies in places like the Congo, the repercussions of which are still felt in the extreme poverty of those countries.

Poverty, including in wealthy countries like the United States, is a sort of modern plague, killing millions each year with both infectious disease and non-communicable diseases like diabetes, Kennedy argues in the final chapter. These poverty-associated health problems, in turn, have been associated with higher death rates during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Kennedy ends with a passionate plea for public health expenditures to eliminate disease. Relying on examples of successful public health campaigns throughout the book, he argues that such an investment will both improve human lives and bolster economies.
Richard Sharp seen in a handout publicity photo

Richard Sharp has been the chairman of the BBC since February 2021.

As chairman of the BBC's board, he is in charge of upholding and protecting the BBC's independence and ensuring the BBC fulfils its mission to inform, educate and entertain, among other things.

A former banker, the 66-year-old earns 160,000 a year in the role, which he previously pledged to give to charity.

But his appointment has been facing scrutiny after a Sunday Times report claimed that shortly before being given the job, Mr Sharp helped the then-Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, secure a loan guarantee agreement. Both men deny there was a conflict of interest, and Mr Sharp said he "simply connected" people.

Mr Sharp's position as BBC chair is the subject of two separate, ongoing investigations - one by the BBC and another, which is being overseen by Adam Heppinstall KC.

Mr Sharp faced renewed calls to quit in March, in a row about the BBC's policy on impartiality that saw the corporation take Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker off air over a controversial tweet.

As a child, Mr Sharp spent part of his childhood in the US, where his father held senior positions at chemical giant Monsanto and telecoms company Cable & Wireless.

Mr Sharp read PPE at Christ Church, Oxford, where he was a neighbour to the journalist Adam Boulton. His 40-year career in finance began with a job at JP Morgan, and then he had a long and very distinguished career at investment bank Goldman Sachs.

There, he was a senior figure when a young Mark Carney - the future Bank of England Governor - also worked for the bank.

This connection had some poignancy when Mr Carney, as governor, warned about the potential economic risks of Brexit. Mr Sharp, who supported Brexit but not prominently, disagreed with some of Mr Carney's assessment, seeing more opportunities outside the European Union.

Mr Sharp ended up as chairman of Goldman's Principal Investment in Europe. That is, guiding partners with their investments, rather than on the trading side.

Story continues

One of Mr Sharp's closest relationships at Goldman was with a young man called Rishi Sunak.

Mr Sharp - a major Tory party donor who was on the board of the conservative think tank, the Centre for Policy Studies - described Mr Sunak to a friend as the best young financial analyst he had seen.

Sharp worked with Rishi Sunak during his time at Goldman Sachs

Mr Sharp went on to work for his old mentee Mr Sunak when he was chancellor, helping the government with loans to business at the beginning of the pandemic. According to BBC journalist Amol Rajan, Mr Sunak was mildly miffed at losing such a close ally at a crucial time, but was persuaded of the merits of Mr Sharp taking up his new role at the BBC.

Mr Sharp has also known Boris Johnson for almost 20 years, the former prime minister said in a statement issued after the Sunday Times published its story about his loan agreement.

Mr Sharp's heritage is Jewish and he is considered by those who know him broadly pro-Israel. He has a twin sister, Victoria, who is a senior judge. Victoria was also the name of his first wife. Mr Sharp had another sister who died young from cancer.

Deeply affected by this, Mr Sharp became a supporter of some of Maurice Saatchi's campaigns to improve cancer research, and care for those enduring cancer.

Mr Sharp has a strong pedigree in the arts, as a former chairman of the Royal Academy, and was for many years a member of the Bank of England's Financial Policy Committee.

He has also served on the boards of public and private companies in the UK, Germany, Denmark and the United States.

Shortly after being appointed, Mr Sharp spoke about the licence fee, saying it was the "least worst" way of funding the BBC. But Mr Sharp told MPs he had an "open mind" about how the corporation should be funded in the future, and it "may be worth reassessing" the current system.

Mr Sharp said he was "considered to be a Brexiteer" and had donated around 400,000 to the Conservative Party over the past 20 years.

And when asked by MPs "what's in it for you?" Mr Sharp said: "We're all a product of our upbringing and I was very fortunate with the parents I have, my great grandparents came to this country escaping tyranny.

"I think I won the lottery in life to be British and if I can make a contribution, I couldn't be happier to.

The BBC is part of the fabric of all our national identities, it offers education and enrichment and is also important for our position in the world... It is a massive privilege to be chair of the BBC."

During his tenure at the BBC, he has defended the broadcaster on numerous occasions and used his platform to highlight the importance of journalism while lamenting the threat of disinformation.
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On day six of testimony in the trial of cult mom Lori Vallow, the jury heard a recording of a phone call between the defendant and her eldest son from the early months of her incarceration.

Colby Ryan, Ms Vallows son from her second marriage, was called a witness for the prosecution. He is her only surviving child following the murders of daughter Tylee, 16, and adopted son JJ, 7, in September 2019.

In the emotional call between mother and son, Ms Vallow refused to switch on her camera, while Mr Ryan demanded to know whether Jesus had really told her to murder his siblings.

The jury remained focused during the call, which was played at the end of Mr Ryans testimony and is believed to have taken place in early August of 2020.

In the call, he said he had been praying for his mother and her fourth husband Chad Daybell, with whom she is accused of the murders of his brother and sister as much as I want to hit him in the face with a shovel.

Mr Ryan pleaded for Ms Vallow to tell him the truth about what happened leading up to the discovery of Tylee and JJ in shallow graves in a pet cemetery on Mr Daybells property in Rexburg, Idaho.

In an especially visceral moment, he said: My siblings, my whole family, my dad  everyone is gone except my mom and youre in jail because of it. You ripped my heart out. You ripped everyones heart out."

Mr Ryan also called her out for texts he received from his sisters phone in the weeks after she was last seen and how Ms Vallow must have known and lied to him about her whereabouts.

An incredulous Mr Ryan, himself a devout Christian, asked why with all that had happened, how could Ms Vallow then say that Jesus Christ was on her side, when, he says, she will be judged by him.

Ms Vallow in response laughs and says that only Tylee and JJ know what happened.

They love me and they are fine and they know the truth and we are the only people that do, she says.

Ms Vallow and Mr Daybells beliefs of an impending doomsday and Second Coming included a concept of people being taken over by dark spirits and demons that had to be cast out. She said her children and husband had been taken over by such entities.

Story continues

Tylee and JJ were last seen in September 2019. Their bodies were discovered on 9 June 2020 after months of searching.

Ms Vallows husband Charles was shot and killed by her brother on 11 July 2019. Tammy Daybell died by asphyxiation on 19 October.

Mr Daybell and Ms Vallow were married on 5 November 2019 in Hawaii.

On 20 February 2020, she was arrested and charged with two felony counts of desertion of dependent children.

Mr Daybell was arrested upon the discovery of the childrens remains on his property and on 25 May 2021, they were both indicted on the charge of conspiracy to commit first-degree murder, first-degree murder, and grand theft by deception for the deaths of Tylee, JJ, and Tammy.

They are being tried separately.
WASHINGTON  Ro Khanna kicked off his first congressional campaign nearly two decades ago, inspired by the advocacy of one sitting California lawmaker: Democratic Congresswoman Barbara Lee.

Barbara Lee has been a hero of mine, he said.

Khanna endorsed Lee last month after rumors the 46-year-old Democrat would consider launching a campaign of his own.

His support for the congresswoman gained attention recently after he called for Sen. Dianne Feinstein, the longest-serving senator from California, to resign. Feinstein previously announced she would retire at the end of 2024, setting off the most competitive California Senate race in decades.

Khanna threw his support behind Lee one of three Democratic candidates, all colleagues, vying for the Senate seat currently held by 89-year-old Feinstein. The crowded Democratic field also includes California Reps. Adam Schiff and Katie Porter.

Why Khanna wants to stay in the House

For Khanna, the place to be is in the lower chamber. His decision follows the midterm elections after dozens of progressive House candidates won their races  like Reps. Maxwell Frost of Florida and Summer Lee of Pennsylvania despite Republicans gaining a narrow majority.

I think the progressive energy is in the House, he told USA TODAY. ... and I think I can have an impact on bold policy from the House."

The Congressional Progressive Caucus, where Khanna serves as a deputy whip, is the largest its been in history, adding 16 freshmen lawmakers for a total of 103 members in the 118th Congress. The caucus seeks to advance left-leaning policies and build on diversity. The current executive board is half comprised of women and over 70 percent of its members are people of color or identify as LGBTQ+.

To Khanna, the House is simply the most exciting place," he said.

Smart analysis delivered to your inbox: Sign up for the OnPolitics newsletter

Countdown to 2024: These candidates have already announced Senate plans for next election

Story continues

Why Khanna supports Lee

Rep. Barbara Lee, D-Calif speaks at a news conference at the Capitol in Washington, Wednesday, Feb. 23, 2022.

The four-term congressman said Lees anti-war advocacy inspired him to first run for Congress. She stood out in 2001 as the lone member of the House to oppose a measure that gave the president authority to strike against any nation or group involved in the Sept. 11 attacks.

Her anti-war platform is one Khanna mimicked when launching his first campaign for the House in 2004 the first anti-Iraq primary campaign in the country, he says. He lost in the primary to the incumbent, Democratic Rep. Tom Lantos.

I got crushed but Im very proud of that effort to stand up against the Iraq War and I saw Barbara Lees example in helping inspire me, he said.

Khanna will be serving as co-chair of her 2024 Senate campaign. In this role, he said he will focus on consolidating northern California voters, conducting outreach to communities of color and connecting with progressive voters who back Democratic Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont. Khanna is popular among Sanders supporters after serving as national co-chair for the Sanders presidential campaign during his 2020 bid.

Why Khanna's endorsement matters

Lee, who serves alongside Khanna on the Congressional Progressive Caucus as one of three chair emeriti, told USA TODAY Khannas endorsement is important to consolidating the progressive base. Khanna is a leader among the progressive party and well respected in California and throughout the country, she said.

"I was very honored to receive his endorsement and it's helping us in a very powerful way I believe, here in California, to talk to voters and to communicate to populations of voters that he really resonates with," Lee said.

Lee said her campaign will focus on championing issues that affect voters' lives such as income inequality, climate change, public safety and the California housing crisis.

California Senate race: Rep. Barbara Lee launches campaign for retiring Feinstein's seat

More: Rep. Katie Porter is running for Sen. Dianne Feinstein's seat in California

Pushing for progressives on Biden's board

April 3, 2023; Washington, DC, USA; April 3, 2023; Washington, DC, USA. Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) poses for a portrait at Spirit of Justice Park near the U.S. Capitol building Monday, April 3, 2023.. Mandatory Credit: Josh Morgan-USA TODAY

While campaigning for Lee, Khanna will also be serving on President Joe Bidens newly-formed national advisory board." Khanna said he will be one of 20 lawmakers from around the country who will make the case for Bidens agenda ahead of the 2024 elections.

"Im very honored to be on that," he said. "Im going to be surrogating for the president."

As a surrogate, Khanna said he will be focusing on amplifying Biden's efforts to bring back manufacturing jobs while making the case that the president is pushing for economic revitalization throughout the Midwest and the South.

Khanna has pushed for progressive policies throughout his career in public service from his time as the deputy assistant secretary in the Department of Commerce under former President Barack Obama to now representing constituents in Silicon Valley in a district outside the San Francisco Bay Area.

Born in Philadelphia, Khanna has spent years focusing on American manufacturing and technology, serving as the lead sponsor for the Endless Frontier Act in 2021, legislation that focused on investing in scientific and technological innovation. Khanna also authored the CHIPS and Science Act, which Biden signed into law in 2022 to enhance manufacturing.

We need to tell that story of economic revitalization, Khanna said.

More: House Dems Ro Khanna, Dean Phillips call on Sen. Dianne Feinstein to resign

CA Senate race: Rep. Adam Schiff, who led first Trump impeachment, seeking CA Senate seat held by Feinstein

How will Dems set themselves apart in California?

Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., questions witnesses during a hearing of a special House committee dedicated to countering China, on Capitol Hill, Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2023, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) ORG XMIT: DCAB387

Khanna said the biggest challenge for Democrats running in the 2024 Senate race is how the three will get peoples attention in the largest state in the country.

People care more probably about the Hollywood celebrities and the tech celebrities than about politics, he said.

The California congressman said he anticipates that other members of the progressive caucus will rally around Lee, stressing she is the only person of color running in the race.

Being an African American woman is going to matter at a time that theres not a single African American woman in the United States Senate, Khanna said.

To Khanna, Lee stands out among the crowded Democratic field because of her staunch record on matters of war and peace.

"We've got three excellent people running in the Senate. They're all colleagues of mine. They all have their own strengths," Khanna said. "I just think Barbara Lee's track record, her historic candidacy and her advocacy as an anti-war candidate really sets her apart."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Rep. Ro Khanna backs Rep. Barbara Lee instead of running for CA Senate
Here's what the Prince Aquatic Center is expected to look like when the Sands Family YMCA in Canandaigua opens in October.

CANANDAIGUA, NY  The new aquatic center at the Sands Family YMCA in Canandaigua will be named for Rochester businessman and philanthropist Brian F. Prince.

With Prince's gift of $1 million, the center will be named the Prince Aquatic Center. The nearly 10,000-square-foot Prince Aquatic Center will feature two pools  a warm water pool with a splash pad for families, and a six-lane exercise pool for lap swim and more. A whirlpool and dry sauna also are part of the mix.

The Sands Family YMCA will be a game changer for Canandaigua, especially this Aquatic Center, Prince said in a prepared statement. During a recent visit to another aquatics center within the YMCA of Greater Rochester, I was awestruck to see just how important a state-of-the-art aquatic center is in a vibrant YMCA, and I am proud to help bring that to Canandaigua.

Prince is president and CEO of Hegemon Capital Inc. As a kid, the YMCA played a significant role in his life, as he said in the statement he used to ride his bike to the Northwest Family YMCA on Long Pond Road in Greece.

Brian Prince

I know what the Y meant to me growing up and Im honored to do what I can to ensure the Ys mission carries on to the next generation for families and children, stated Prince. Living next to the Finger Lakes, it is especially important to make sure our community can be safe in and around the water.

Ernest Lamour, president and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Rochester, said it brings joy to see people who have beenimpacted by the Y get involved and give back.

"It truly shows the power of the Y and the difference it can make on your life and in your community," Lamour stated.

The Sands Family YMCA is set to open Oct. 2. This facility is being made possible, largely thanks to the Sands Family Foundation, which has given a historic gift of $13.5 million to support the Canandaigua branch.

Last month, the YMCA of Greater Rochester announced a way for Y members and the community to financially support the Canandaigua Y as part of a community campaign. To learn more, visit ymcaroc.co/BecomeRooted.

This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Sands Family YMCA in Canandaigua NY gets $1M gift
BUCHAREST (Reuters) - Romania's ruling Social Democrat Party (PSD) said it will ask the coalition government to impose a temporary ban on Ukrainian grain imports, mirroring moves by other central and eastern European states to protect their domestic agriculture.

Poland, Hungary and Slovakia have already enforced import bans of food and grain. Warsaw, despite being a staunch political ally of Kyiv, has gone one step further by also stopping transit.

Ukraine is holding a second day of talks with Polish counterparts to unblock exports of food and grain through Poland.

One of the world's largest grain exporters, Ukraine had its Black Sea ports blocked by Russia's invasion more than a year ago and has been forced to find alternative shipping routes through Poland and Romania.

Logistical bottlenecks and shorter transport distances have made millions of tonnes of Ukrainian grain remain in central European states, hurting prices and sales of local farmers.

PSD will ask the governing coalition to make a political decision to enable a temporary decree, the party said in a statement.

The measure is needed to protect Romanian farmers as the compensation provided by the European Commission "cannot cover the overall damage they sustained," PSD said.

"At the same time, Romania must continue to support Ukraine by facilitating the transit of farm products to other European Union states or to Black Sea commercial routes."

Romanian Agriculture Minister Petre Daea - a PSD member - was due to hold talks with his Ukrainian counterpart on Wednesday.

Romania's flagship Black Sea port of Constanta shipped some 12 million tones of Ukrainian grains in 2022 and the first quarter of this year.

Access to three Ukrainian Black Sea ports was cleared last year under a deal between Moscow and Kyiv, but that deal is set to expire on May 18 and Russian demands have left the prospect of an extension uncertain.

(Reporting by Luiza Ilie; Editing by Alexandra Hudson)
Round Rock police say a barricaded man killed himself after officers tried to arrest him on a felony assault charge on Tuesday.

A man killed himself during a standoff after Round Rock police tried to arrest him on Tuesday, officials said.

At approximately 12:15 p.m., police said, officers attempted to serve an arrest warrant on a man in the 1900 block of Denfield Drive for felony assault/family violence with a prior conviction. Cmdr. Tom Sloan said the situation escalated when the man, who was in his 40s, did not follow the officers' orders to come out the house and instead barricaded himself.

He said the man's name was not released because his next-of-kin have not yet been notified.

When the Round Rock SWAT team tried to approach the house, the man fired one round, Sloan said. He said the officers disengaged and instead checked on nearby residents. Sloan said no one was injured and that the officers did not return fire.

Police then requested help from the Williamson County sheriff's office and the Central Texas Regional SWAT team to help de-escalate the situation, he said, but the man later fired two more shots. The SWAT teams used robot, drones and gas canisters to get a response from the man, the police commander said.

At approximately 2:40 p.m., Sloan said, officials determined through its drone that the man was dead from a self-inflicted wound. He said the man was the only one person in the house.

Officers are currently attempting to serve an arrest warrant on an armed, barricaded subject at a residence in the 1900-block of Denfield Drive. SWAT is on scene. People in the immediate area should remain indoors. Others should avoid the area. TIME: 1:30pm Tuesday pic.twitter.com/ilHm2iWQas  Round Rock Police (@roundrockpolice) April 18, 2023

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Round Rock police: Barricaded man killed himself after arrest attempt
Vladimir Putin, who allegedly visited the territories of Ukraine occupied by Russia, brought icons to the military

They claim Putin visited the headquarters of the Dnipro military group in Kherson Oblast and the Vostok headquarters of the terrorist LNR organization in Luhansk Oblast. The despot listened to reports from occupation commanders on the situation on the fronts, including in Zaporizhzhya Oblast.

Read also: Russian sociologist explains when Putins entourage may overthrow him

Read also: Putin personally approved arrest of WSJ reporter

Propagandists wrote that the tyrant brought copies of icons with him, which he gave to his troops. They published videos claiming Putin moved between headquarters by helicopter. The exact date when the war criminal illegally entered the occupied territories of Ukraine was not disclosed.

Russian propagandists reported on March 19 that Putin visited the occupied city of Mariupol at night. They published several videos showing the autocrat driving through the city at night and talking to locals.

Ukrainian intelligence expressed doubts that it was actually Putin that visited the city.

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
Victory Day will be held in a mixed format in Moscow and other Russian cities in 2023. There will be no full-time Immortal Regiment march this year.

Source: Russian state-owned news outlet TASS

Details: Olga Zanko, the head of the central headquarters of the All-Russian public movement "Victory Volunteers" and Russia's State Duma member, said that Victory Day 2023 would be held in a mixed format: on-site and online events dedicated to the memory of the Great Patriotic War, including the Immortal Regiment march, will be held in the regions.

Elena Tsunaeva, co-chairman of the central headquarters of the All-Russian public movement Immortal Regiment of Russia and Russia's State Duma member, said that there will be no traditional on-site Immortal Regiment procession in Russia in 2023.

Background: For the second time, Russia will celebrate Victory Day in World War II in a more modest manner than usual due to the fact that it started the war against Ukraine and is engaged in aggressive military operations.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 18)  The government has not received reports of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) wanting to go back to the Philippines or expressing distress over the ongoing tension between China and Taiwan, a Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) official said Tuesday.

As far as Filipinos in Taiwan are concerned, wala pa kami nababalitaan na gusto umuwi o nababahala, Jose de Vega, DFA Undersecretary for Migrant Workers Affairs, said during the Laging Handa briefing.

[Translation: As far as Filipinos in Taiwan are concerned, we have not heard from anyone who wants to go home or is worried.]

He added that a contingency plan is in place should hostilities arise.

Yung Manila Economic and Culture Office sa Taipei and Kaohsiung, they are in touch with Filipino community leaders, at lahat ng employers kailangan may plano para sa kanyang manggagawa in case magkaroon ng hostilities, De Vega said.

[Translation: The Manila Economic and Culture Office (MECO) in Taipei and Kaohsiung are in touch with Filipino community leaders, and employers are required to have plans for their workers in case hostilities break out.]

The MECO is the Philippines' de facto embassy in self-governing Taiwan in the absence of diplomatic ties between Manila and Taipei. Its functions, however, are non-political and non-security in nature in keeping with the One-China policy that recognizes the Peoples Republic of China as the sole legitimate government of China.

Earlier, a lawmaker condemned Chinas threat against the safety of OFWs.

China seems to be issuing a threat not just against the Philippines as a country but to innocent OFWs who were obligated to work abroad to create better lives for their families, Alliance of Concerned Teachers Rep. France Castro.

READ: Solon condemns Chinas threat vs. OFWs in Taiwan

During his speech Last April 14, Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian said China is the last country that wishes to see conflict over the Taiwan Strait."

"But we will not renounce the use of force, and we reserve the option of taking all necessary measures," he added.

RELATED: China tells PH to oppose Taiwan independence, warns anew vs. EDCA sites
Russia has reduced its offensive activity around the city of Donetsk, most likely to divert resources to the Bakhmut front.

Source: UK Defence Intelligence, as reported by European Pravda

Quote: "Heavy fighting has continued along the Donbas front line. However, there is a realistic possibility that Russia has reduced troop numbers and is decreasing offensive action around Donetsk city, most likely to divert resources towards the Bakhmut sector," the UK MoD states.

Details: Russian MoD and Wagner Group forces continue to make creeping advances in the city of Bakhmut. The front line in the town centre largely follows the main railway line.

"Ukraine is generally holding Russias envelopment from the south along the line of Korsunskovo Street, the old main road west out of town. For both sides, the exact sequencing of any major drawdown of their units around Bakhmut has become a critical question, with Ukraine wanting to free-up an offensive force while Russia likely aspires to regenerate an operational reserve," UK Defence Intelligence reports.

Background: Earlier, British intelligence pointed to further evidence of an "internecine struggle" in Russia over the war in Ukraine.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
A Russian judge ruled on Tuesday that American journalist Evan Gershkovich will remain jailed on espionage charges.

The Wall Street Journal reporter and the U.S. government deny the allegations.

Gershkovich, a 31-year-old U.S. citizen, was arrested in Yekaterinburg on espionage charges last month, accused by Russias Federal Security Service of trying to obtain classified information.

The reporter had appealed his detention, but the Tuesday ruling in Moscow City Court says hell stay jailed at least until the end of May. Gershkovich could face up to 20 years in prison if convicted.

U.S. officials have decried the incident. Secretary of State Antony Blinken last week designated Gershkovich as wrongfully detained by Russia.

President Biden has said its totally illegal whats happening, and a spokesperson for the State Department condemned the Kremlins continued repression of independent voices in Russia, and its ongoing war against the truth.

The most important thing is we know Evans not a spy. He never was a spy. Hes never worked for the U.S. government. Hes a journalist who works for The Wall Street Journal. And as the president and secretary said, Journalisms not a crime, said the administrations special presidential envoy for hostage affairs, Roger Carstens, last week.

The Associated Press contributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
By Alexander Marrow

(Reuters) -Russia is "not yet" planning to block Wikipedia, its minister of digital affairs said on Tuesday as a Moscow court handed the online encyclopaedia another fine for failing to remove content Russia deems illegal.

Wikipedia is one of the few surviving independent sources of information in Russian since a state crackdown on online content intensified after Moscow sent its armed forces into Ukraine.

"We are not blocking Wikipedia yet, there are no such plans for now," Interfax news agency quoted digital affairs minister Maksut Shadaev as saying.

Wikipedia said in an emailed statement it would "continue to provide access to Wikipedia for Russian speakers around the world who find value in the site and endeavor to protect everyone's right to access".

On Tuesday, a Moscow court fined Wikipedia owner Wikimedia Foundation 800,000 roubles ($9,777) for what Russian agencies said was a failure to remove information considered to be promoting train hopping, where a person rides on the side or top of a train.

Wikimedia has previously said information that Russian authorities complained about was well sourced and in line with Wikipedia standards.

Russia has for years sought to launch a home-grown online encyclopaedia, without making much progress.

Russia has similarly struggled to establish a comparable video hosting service to Alphabet's YouTube, which remains available while other foreign social media platforms are blocked.

Vyacheslav Volodin, speaker of the State Duma, Russia's lower house of parliament, said on Tuesday a court had ordered Google to pay 1 billion roubles for blocking the Duma TV YouTube channel.

"Today, the bailiff service has started seizing property, in search of these funds," Volodin said.

Google in Russia did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Interfax news agency later said communications regulator Roskomnadzor was seeking to fine Google up to 4 million roubles for refusing to remove content banned in Russia. The case will be heard in a Moscow court on April 20.

Story continues

Last September a court upheld a fine of 21.7 billion roubles against Google's Russian subsidiary for repeated failure to delete information related to the campaign in Ukraine.

The subsidiary filed for bankruptcy after authorities seized its bank account. The U.S. tech giant has paused commercial operations in Russia, but free services remain available.

Russia also fined Amazon's Twitch 4 million roubles for failing to delete "false information" about Moscow's campaign. Twitch had no immediate comment.

($1 = 81.8255 roubles)

(Additional reporting by David LjunggrenEditing by Mark Trevelyan, Mark Heinrich, Jonathan Oatis and Cynthia Osterman)
As Russia's war on Ukraine grinds on toward the 15-month mark, both sides are expected to launch new offensives, and both sides have apparently suffered shortages of key weaponry. Recently leaked Pentagon documents appear to show Ukraine running dangerously low on the air defense rounds it has used to stop thousands of Russian rockets, missiles and exploding drones from reaching their targets.

On the other side of the front lines, the leaked papers suggest Russia's special forces have been decimated, as wave after wave of soldiers have been thrown into the fight with little gained in return.

The Ukrainians will soon get an advanced U.S. Patriot air defense system to help them fend off the invasion, and there's more weaponry on the way from Europe  everything from heavy main battle tanks to machine gun ammunition.

Ukrainian Minister of Defense Oleksii Resnikov recently gloated in social media videos over the first big tanks sent from Europe to help his country fend off Russia's invasion, climbing aboard a British Challenger 2, part of the first batch of modern "main battle tanks" (MBTs) to be handed over to Ukraine's armed forces. They were promised along with dozens of German-made Leopard 2 tanks and, later this year, American M1 Abrams tanks.

These are the tanks Ukraine has been promised from the West

Russia, however, may be struggling to get modern war machines to the front lines, and has pulled some very, very old tanks out of deep storage, seemingly to bolster its ground forces in Ukraine.

While Ukrainian forces train on modern Western weapons, Russian tank crews appear set to take delivery of machines driven by their fathers'  or even their grandfathers' generations.

Last month, an online post by the Conflict Intelligence Team (CIT), a Russian organization that's investigated and documented Russia's military actions in Ukraine since the first invasion in 2014, showed what it said were mothballed, Soviet-era T-54 and T-55 tanks being loaded onto trains and rolling off storage bases.

Story continues

It sparked a flurry of speculation, and while Russia's military hasn't commented on the movement of the tanks, more sophisticated but still-old Soviet T-62 tanks have already been taken from the same storage location, brought to workshops to be refurbished, and then deployed in Ukraine. CIT noted in its late-March report that the train transport spotted that month was the first known instance of the older T-54s and T-55s being pulled out of storage.

An image published in late March 2023 by the exiled Russian Conflict Intelligence Team (CIT) organization shows what the CIT says are Soviet-era T-54 and T-55 tanks rolling away from a storage base on train cars. / Credit: Conflict Intelligence Team

While official sources have said nothing, pro-Kremlin military analysts who feature regularly on Russia's state-run media outlets made no attempt to downplay the apparent resurrection of the Soviet military hardware.

Yuri Netkachev, a retired lieutenant general who once commanded a tank battalion, told the Nezavisimaya Gazeta newspaper that the T-54 and T-55 tanks were "in demand to continue the special operation, because they have a significant ammunition load."

With Ukraine's armed forces claiming to have destroyed more than 3,600 Russian tanks since the full-scale invasion began on February 24, 2022, Netkachev stressed the sheer quantity of old Soviet tanks in Russian storage  as many as 10,000, he claimed  as a potential battlefield advantage.

"We see these tanks on the railway platforms, and this indicates that crews of four people per vehicle have been trained for all of them. The tanks have been modernized, the sights on them have been adjusted and can be replaced, and also for each of them there is sufficient ammunition, which will be replenished in a timely manner," claimed Netkachev, suggesting they would most likely be used to hold ground, rather than attempt to gain it as part of a "main striking force."

The "Beast From the East"

Entering service just after the Second World War, in 1948, the T-54 was the original Cold War tank. Dubbed the "Beast From the East" during that East-West standoff, the tank represented a massive leap in Soviet design. It was followed by the introduction of the T-55 a few years later, and both were produced in huge quantities.

A file image published in late March 2023 by the exiled Russian Conflict Intelligence Team (CIT) organization shows what the CIT says is a Soviet-era T-55 tank in open storage on a Russian base. / Credit: Handout/Conflict Intelligence Team

With estimates suggesting as many as 60,000 of the machines were built in the USSR, it became one of the most widely used tanks in the world, having been exported to about 50 countries. They have been and are still used by countless armies and militias in conflicts ranging from the jungles of Vietnam to the plains of Africa and the mountains of Afghanistan.

However, despite still being in production into the early 1980's it was clear by the previous decade, when they were used in the Arab-Israeli war, that the T-55 was outdated and they were eventually withdrawn from service and mothballed.

Until now, at least.

While Netkachev and other Russian pundits likely offer realistic insight, framing the old tanks as a plentiful resource to bolster Russian forces' back lines on the battlefield, Moscow's plans for the Cold War machines have not been confirmed. They wouldn't fare well if put toe-to-toe with the latest Western MBTs, or even many of the smaller armored fighting vehicles (AFVs) now being supplied to Ukraine, as the Soviet tanks lack sufficient armor, firing range, night fighting capabilities and modern fire control systems  or the capacity to fire on the move.

Those facts left CIT's analysts to write that it was "difficult to determine the possible uses of these tanks," but they concluded it likely "indicates severe issues with military vehicle supply in the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation."

As Russia's two tank factories reportedly struggle to produce new tanks and modernize older models under pressure from international sanctions that have constrained supplies, Russia might be banking on its significant stocks of older machinery to keep its war effort going, and even to help it drive a long-expected offensive this spring.

Even if used, as Netkachev and other analysts have suggested, as almost static, indirect-fire artillery pieces behind the front lines, given the number of tanks and the quantity of shells Russia has for them, the Soviet relics could still prove deadly. Assuming, of course, that after decades in storage, they even start.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin paid a new visit to Russian-occupied parts of Ukraine, Russian officials said Tuesday, in what would be his second trip to the country in just two months. An undated video released by the Kremlin and broadcast on Russian state media appeared to show Putin arriving by helicopter at a Russian command post in an occupied area of the Kherson region and then traveling to the Russian National Guard headquarters in the neighboring Luhansk region.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the visit took place on Monday, though the exact timing and locations were not disclosed and CBS News could not independently verify the authenticity of the video.

This screenshot of a video broadcast on Russian state television allegedly shows Russian President Vladimir Putin visiting the Russian-occupied Ukrainian region of Kherson. / Credit: Russian pool via Reuters

"It is important for me to hear your opinion on how the situation is developing, to listen to you, to exchange information," Putin was shown telling Russian commanders in the video.

Many Western leaders have visited Kyiv since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February last year, but Putin has only made rare visits to Russian-occupied regions of the country. Last month he visited Crimea, a Ukrainian peninsula unilaterally annexed by Moscow in 2014, and the southeast city of Mariupol.

Both Russian and Ukrainian forces failed to make significant advances on the ground over the winter as battles for eastern cities like Bakhmut grinded on, resulting in huge losses for both sides.

Meanwhile, Group of Seven (G7) foreign ministers meeting in Japan, including U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, issued a statement condemning Russia for announcing a plan to station "tactical nuclear weapons" in Belarus, just across Ukraine's northern border. It was the first time Russia has threatened to deploy nuclear weapons in another country since the Cold War. The G7 includes the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Italy, Germany, France and Japan.

"Russia's irresponsible nuclear rhetoric and its threat to deploy nuclear weapons in Belarus are unacceptable," the G7 said in a statement. "Any use of chemical, biological or nuclear weapons by Russia would be met with severe consequences."

Story continues

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Russian occupiers shelled Kherson on April 18

Russian forces shelled the city center at 10:17 a.m., reported Kherson Oblast Military Administration head, Oleksandr Prokudin, on Telegram as it happened.

Oleksandr Prokudin/Telegram

Russia targeted the area around Khersons Central Market, said Presidential office head, Andriy Yermak.

Read also: Three people injured in 88 attacks on Kherson Oblast in last day

Oleksandr Prokudin/Telegram

"As a result of the artillery shelling, six people were injured," he wrote on Telegram.

Oleksandr Prokudin/Telegram

Read also: Two men injured, one loses both legs, after tripping Russian mine in Kherson Oblast

Russian forces fired on populated areas in Kherson Oblast 57 times on April 17, with Kherson being targeted six times. One additional person was injured as a result of the attacks.

Earlier, it was reported that Russian tyrant Vladimir Putin visited Kherson Oblast.

Read also: Ukrainian army destroys artillery and two Grad rocket systems Russians used to attack Kherson Oblast

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
In this photo taken from video released by Russian TV pool on Tuesday, April 18, 2023, Russian President Vladimir Putin arrives at an undisclosed location. The Kremlin says Putin has visited headquarters of the Russian troops fighting in Ukraine. | Pool photo via Associated Press

Russian President Vladimir Putin visited the Russian-occupied Kherson region in Ukraine to rally troops and to commemorate Orthodox Easter, which was celebrated on Sunday, the Kremlin announced Tuesday.

Putin visits occupied regions in Ukraine

As seen in a video released by the Kremlin, Putin met with troops at military headquarters in the Kherson region before flying to the Luhansk province, where he visited the headquarters of the Russian National Guard.

Both of the Ukrainian regions that he visited were annexed by Russia last year, BBC reported.

Related

The move represented an apparent attempt by the Russian leader to rally his troops and demonstrate his authority, according to The Associated Press.

The unexpected visit is the Russian presidents second trip to Ukraine in the span of two months. In March, Putin traveled to the occupied city of Mariupol, where he toured the city by night and spoke to residents, the Deseret News previously reported

Mykhailo Podolyak, an advisor to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, responded to Putins surprise visit by calling it a tour to enjoy the crimes of his minions for the last time.

Putin's degradation is impressive. The world waited for his statement a year ago. Now they don't. There's no such political actor. There's only a "special tour" of the mass murders author in the occupied and ruined territories to enjoy the crimes of his minions for the last time.    (@Podolyak_M) April 18, 2023

Russian court upholds U.S. journalists detention

Meanwhile, Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich appealed his pre-trial detention but was rejected by a Russian court Tuesday, The Associated Press reported.

Related

Russia accused the American journalist of espionage, a claim that the U.S. denies.

Gershkovich is currently being held in a pre-trial detention center until May 29, per CNN.
Russia appears to be preparing a retreat from some areas of Kherson, a Ukraine military spokeswoman said on Tuesday.

Russian troops have reportedly been packing up their belongings, civilian clothes and local property in a sign that they are preparing to move, Natalia Gumenyuk has said. Earlier on Tuesday morning, an attack on an outdoor market in Kherson killed one and injured nine, according to the latest tally.

It comes as the Kremlin announced on Tuesday that president Vladimir Putin had visited troops in the Kherson region, asking them to give their views on how the situation was developing and handing out Easter gifts.

Elsewhere, the British Ministry of Defence said in its latest update that there is a realistic possibility that Russia has reduced troop numbers and is decreasing offensive action around Donetsk city, which they believe is to divert resources towards Bakhmut.

In the frontline city, Ukraine is generally holding Russias envelopment from the south along the line of Korsunskovo Street, the old main road west out of town, the Ministry of Defence added.

02:59 PM

Today's liveblog is now closed

Thank you for following today's liveblog. Here is a summary of today's stories.

A Russian court has denied bail for Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who was arrested on charges of espionage for which he faces up to 20 years in prison.

President Zelensky visited "frontline positions" of Ukrainian soldiers in Andiivka, Donetsk Oblast, on Tuesday, his official website has said. Mr Zelensky handed out awards to soldiers and heard reports from military commanders about the situation on the battlefield, his office said.

Russia has said that it has deployed nuclear submarines to the Pacific Ocean as part of a surprise readiness check ordered by Vladimir Putin. The Russian ministry of defence released a statement alongside images of the submarines on Tuesday, which claimed: "Strategic and multi-purpose nuclear submarines deployed in the Pacific Ocean as part of a sudden check of the combat readiness of the Pacific Fleet forces."

Russian forces have increased the use of heavy artillery and air strikes in the city of Bakhmut, the commander of Ukraines ground forces said. "Currently, the enemy is increasing the activity of heavy artillery and the number of air strikes, turning the city into ruins," General Oleksandr Syrskyi said in a statement.

Vladimir Putin made an unannounced visit to occupied territories in Ukraine, visiting the headquarters of his forces in the Kherson and Luhansk regions.

Story continues

Please follow along tomorrow for all the latest updates on Ukraine.

02:42 PM

Russian foreign ministry summons British, Canadian and US ambassadors for dressing down

Russias foreign ministry summoned British, Canadian and US ambassadors for a dressing down on Tuesday afternoon, following their condemnation of the conviction of Vladimir Kara-Murza.

Mr Kara-Murza, who is a Russian and British national, was sentenced to 25 years in prison for treason on Monday in a trial he and the West said was politically motivated.

Russia's foreign ministry accused the three ambassadors of "gross interference" in Russian domestic affairs.

US Ambassador to Russia Lynne Tracy arrives at the Russian Foreign Ministry headquarters in Moscow - KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP

02:26 PM

Ukraine builds up stockpile of air defence ammunition as Russia slows campaign of long-range attack

Ukraine is building up a stockpile of air defence ammunition because Russia has slowed its campaign of long-range attack, according to a Western official.

The admission came amid speculation that Kyiv was struggling to replace Soviet-era weaponry that are the cornerstone of the network used to protect its skies, Joe Barnes reports.

Of the reports of Ukrainian stockpiles being low, I think everybodys low, weve had a year of conflict and crisis, the official said.

Its not an inexhaustible supply and nobody has an inexhaustible supply of weapons, but what we do know is that they [Ukraine] have enough to defend themselves at the moment.

The source added: What we havent seen for a while are large-scale attacks into Ukraine, and thats given the Ukrainians a bit of breathing space.

02:07 PM

Evan Gershkovich: Wall Street Journal reporter denied bail by Russian judge

A Russian court has denied bail for US reporter Evan Gershkovich, who was arrested on charges of espionage for which he faces up to 20 years in prison, reports Nataliya Vasilyeva.

A judge read out the ruling saying his detention "should remain in place", after which Mr Gershkovich responded in Russian: "All understood. Thank you very much."

Mr Gershkovich, a reporter for The Wall Street Journal, denies the espionage charges.

To read more from The Telegraph's Russia correspondent, and watch footage of Evan Gershkovich in court, click here.

01:43 PM

President Zelensky visits soldiers in Andiivka

President Zelensky visited "the frontline positions" of Ukrainian soldiers in Andiivka, Donetsk Oblast, on Tuesday, his official website has said.

Mr Zelensky handed out awards to soldiers and heard reports from military commanders about the situation on the battlefield, his office said.

The Ukrainian leader was quoted saying: "I have the honour to be here today, to thank you for your service, for defending our land, Ukraine, our families.



Volodymyr Zelenskiy awards a Ukrainian service member at a frontline, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine - UKRAINIAN PRESIDENTIAL PRESS SERVICE/via REUTERS

01:29 PM

Listen: Latest episode of Ukraine: The Latest out now

01:15 PM

Pictured: Man treated by medics at Kherson market following Russian shelling

Wounded man is treated by medics at a market in the center of the Ukrainian city of Kherson following a Russian shelling - DINA PLETENCHUK/AFP

12:39 PM

Iconic Moscow march for Victory Day celebrations cancelled by organisers

The organisers of the Immortal Regiment (Bessmertni Polk) will not host their traditional march through Moscow this year for security reasons.

The annual Immortal Regiment procession commemorating the Russians lost in the Second World War, which first took place on 9 May 2010, will not take place this year, and instead organisers are looking at other formats for the event.

The march has often drawn tens of thousands to Russias capital, and Vladimir Putin himself has taken part in the event in the past.

Co-chairwoman of the Immortal Regiment Russia committee and State Duma deputy Elena Tsunaeva said at a press conference: The Immortal Regiment will be held in other formats this year for security reasons. We propose to honour the memory of our heroes throughout the day by choosing the formats we talked about today.

Among the suggested formats were an online database for veterans and a remembrance wall with photographs of war heroes, RIA Novosti reported.

12:04 PM

Watch: Russia deploys nuclear submarines into Pacific Ocean in surprise readiness check

11:45 AM

Analysis: Putin's visit to occupied territories 'has showcased the Kremlin's anxiety'

Vladimir Putins unannounced visit to occupied territories in Ukraine has showcased the Kremlins anxiety about what would be a hostile local population in what Russia now calls part of its country, writes Russia correspondent Nataliya Vasilyeva.

Mr Putin had famously avoided travelling anywhere near the front line of a devastating war he unleashed for a full year earlier before he was spotted on a brief visit in Mariupol last month.

Photos and videos from the southern Kherson region released by the Kremlin on Tuesday morning showed Mr Putin either sitting down at two separate meetings with his generals or getting off helicopters and cars, surrounded by bodyguards.

The landscape is unrecognisable, and there is no spontaneous interaction with locals.

The subdued scenes from what Mr Putin calls Russias new territories stand in sharp contrast to the genuine outpouring of support he received on his first trip to Crimea that Moscow illegally annexed in 2014 when jubilant crowds thronged the streets, chanting Putin and Russia.

Such scenes would be inconceivable in Kherson now: not a day passes without news of yet another act of sabotage or a bombing against occupation authorities in the area that the Kremlin now considers its territory.

With that implicit security threat, all Mr Putin has to do is hole up in windowless rooms with his generals and pore over battle maps.

11:16 AM

Russia carries out surprise readiness check of nuclear submarines, says defence ministry

Russia has said that it has deployed nuclear submarines to the Pacific Ocean as part of a surprise readiness check ordered by the president, Newsflash Media reports.

The Russian ministry of defence released a statement alongside images of the submarines on Tuesday, which claimed: "Strategic and multi-purpose nuclear submarines deployed in the Pacific Ocean as part of a sudden check of the combat readiness of the Pacific Fleet forces."

It added: "In the course of a surprise check of the combat readiness of the forces of the Pacific Fleet (Pacific Fleet), which is carried out by decision of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin, strategic nuclear missile submarines and multipurpose nuclear submarines of the Submarine Forces of the Pacific Fleet are deployed at the indicated positions in the Pacific Ocean.

Russia deploys nuclear submarines in the Pacific Ocean as part of a sudden check of the Pacific Fleet from the base in Kamchatka in Russia in undated footage - @mil/Newsflash/@mil/Newsflash

The footage allegedly shows at least one submarine departing from a Kamchatka port in the east of the country before at least half a dozen of the submersibles are shown at sea with the coast in the background.

Newsflash Media has not been able to independently verify the footage or claims.

11:01 AM

Pictured: WSJ reporter Evan Gershkovich appears in Moscow court

Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who was detained in March while on a reporting trip and charged with espionage, stands behind a glass wall of an enclosure for defendants before a court hearing to consider an appeal against his detention, in Moscow, Russia - EVGENIA NOVOZHENINA/REUTERS

10:54 AM

Crimea resident jailed for ten years for setting fire to military draft office and preparing bridge attack, says FSB

A resident of Russian-held Crimea has been jailed for ten years after setting fire to a military draft office and preparing an attack on a bridge, the Russian security service has said.

The man was arrest in June 2022, and convicted of arson at a military draft office in Simferopol", the regional capital of Crimea, and "preparing the destruction of a railway bridge", according to a statement from the FSB on Tuesday.

"During a search, an RGD-5 grenade was confiscated," the statement added.

Investigators had also found a phone with photos of railway bridges in the peninsula and a notebook with a hand-drawn map of a hidden arms arsenal with an anti-tank mine and a detonator, according to the FSB.

The chief of the security service in Russia Alexander Bortnikov said in April that 118 "terrorist crimes" had been prevented in Russia since February last year.

10:33 AM

In pictures: More from Putin's visit to the Kherson region

President Vladimir Putin visiting the headquarters of the 'Dnieper' army group in the Kherson Region - KREMLIN RU/HANDOUT HANDOUT/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock/Shutterstock

Russian President Vladimir Putin visiting the headquarters of the Dniepr military grouping in the Kherson region of Ukraine - HANDOUT/AFP

10:19 AM

Macron looks to work with China to establish framework for Ukraine war negotiations

French president Emmanuel Macron is to approach China with a plan that he believes could potentially lead to talks between Russia and Ukraine, Bloomberg reports.

Foreign policy adviser Emmanuel Bonne has been tasked by Mr Macron to work with top China diplomat Wang Yi to establish a framework that could be used as a potential basis for future negotiations, sources familiar with the plans told the outlet.

Talks between Russia and Ukraine could happen as soon as the summer if all goes well with the French strategy, the anonymous sources said. Any negotiations would be dependent on certain conditions being met, such as Kyiv conducting a successful spring offensive that would put Ukraine in a strong position during the talks.

It is currently unclear whether Mr Macron has any support from Ukraine or its allies for his plan.

09:57 AM

'Putin's degradation is impressive': Zelensky adviser responds to Putin's visit to Ukraine

Putin's degradation is impressive. The world waited for his statement a year ago. Now they don't. There's no such political actor. There's only a "special tour" of the mass murders author in the occupied and ruined territories to enjoy the crimes of his minions for the last time.    (@Podolyak_M) April 18, 2023

09:35 AM

Pictured: Putin visits Russian National Guard headquarters in Luhansk region

Russian President Vladimir Putin visiting Russian national guard headquarters in the Lugansk region in the east of Ukraine, which is partly controlled by Russian troops. - AFP

09:22 AM

Egypt reverses plan to give rockets to Russia, leaked documents suggest

Egypt reversed a plan to give rockets to Russia after talks with top US officials and instead offered to make artillery shells for Ukraine, according to leaked documents, reports Nick Allen.

The documents reported by the Washington Post gave further detail about Egypt's role, which was detailed in earlier leaks last week.

According to the classified documents that emerged last week, Cairo planned to produce up to 40,000 rockets for Moscow, and told its officials to keep the deal secret to avoid problems with the West.

Read more on this story here.

09:09 AM

WSJ journalist to appeal against arrest and detention

Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich will appeal against his arrest and detention in an ex-KGB prison in Moscow on espionage charges on Tuesday, according to court documents.

The first US journalist to be detained in Russia on espionage charges since the Cold War, Mr Gershkovich and the Wall Street Journal have both denied he was involved in espionage, as has Washington.

According to a public judicial document, a Russian court will hear a complaint filed by Mr Gershkovich against the decision to keep him in custody in Lefortovo prison while the case is being investigated.

The court documents only provided basic details about the case, and the court said it was forbidden to publish some documents. A Russian lawyer for Mr Gershkovich did not respond to a request for comment from Reuters.

The hearing is essentially procedural, and will cover how Mr Gershkovich should be detained as he awaits trial, and will not cover the substance of the charges as investigators are still working on the details of the case.



08:51 AM

More than 2000 Ukrainians have been returned from Russian captivity, says Zelensky

President Zelensky announced that Ukraine has returned a total 2,235 Ukrainian men and women from captivity since the war began in a post on his official Telegram channel on Tuesday morning.

Writing in both Ukrainian and English, he said: "Since February 24, Ukraine has returned 2,235 Ukrainian men and women from Russian captivity. We remember everyone. We will bring back each and every one."

08:31 AM

Pictured: Putin gives Easter gifts to troops on Ukraine visit

During his visit to troops in the occupied regions on Tuesday, President Putin presented copies of religious icons as Easter gifts.

When handing over the gift to troops at the "Dnieper" headquarters, Mr Putin remarked that the icon had previously belonged to "one of the most successful defence ministers of the Russian empire," RIA Novosti reported.

Vladimir Putin shows an icon prior to present at one of headquarters of the Russian troops at an undisclosed location - Pool Sputnik Kremlin/Pool Photo via AP

08:14 AM

Russia turning Bakhmut into ruins with artillery and air strikes, says Ukraine general

Russian forces have increased the use of heavy artillery and air strikes in the city of Bakhmut, the commander of Ukraines ground forces said.

"Currently, the enemy is increasing the activity of heavy artillery and the number of air strikes, turning the city into ruins," General Oleksandr Syrskyi said in a statement.

The region of Bakhmut has been the epicentre of the war in Ukraine for several weeks and fighting in the area showing no sign of abating, as General Syrskyi added that Russia remained committed to taking the city at any costs, though they were suffering heavy losses.



08:02 AM

Pictured: Ben Wallace meets US defence secretary Lloyd J. Austin III at the Pentagon

Defence Secretary @BWallaceMP met with @SecDef Lloyd J. Austin III at the Pentagon. They discussed #USUK defence cooperation, the AUKUS trilateral agreement & ongoing support for  Ukraine.



  pic.twitter.com/WuM1DeaZcg  Ministry of Defence  (@DefenceHQ) April 18, 2023

07:42 AM

Watch: President Vladimir Putin visits troops in Ukraine

07:35 AM

G7 vows 'severe costs' for those helping Russia in Ukraine

G7 foreign ministers warned Tuesday that those helping Russia wage war in Ukraine would face "severe costs", as they offered a united front on another key policy challenge: China.

After two days of talks in the Japanese mountain resort town Karuizawa, the top diplomats from leading economies unveiled no new sanctions on Moscow over its invasion but pledged to crack down on those helping Russia evade the measures and acquire weapons.

The ministers also put Beijing on notice over its "militarisation activities" in the South China Sea and insisted their Taiwan policy was unchanged despite recent controversial comments from France's president.

While talks were dominated by Ukraine and regional challenges, including a demand that North Korea "refrain" from new nuclear tests or ballistic missile launches, the ministers covered a broad sweep of global policy problems.

07:31 AM

Poland, Ukraine to resume grain talks

Poland and Ukraine will resume negotiations early on Tuesday to try to reopen the transit of food and grains, the Polish agriculture minister told public radio station PR1.

The two countries held talks on Monday over bans by central eastern European countries seeking to shelter their farmers from the impact of an influx of cheaper Ukrainian grain.

Some Black Sea ports were blocked after Russia's invasion of Ukraine and large quantities of Ukrainian grain have been trapped in Central Europe because of logistical bottlenecks.

"We are talking with the EU as well as with Ukraine to find solutions. We want these products to go to Europe, but go deep into Europe," Agriculture Minister Robert Telus said.

"We talked yesterday, there were long talks. Today we are also sitting down for talks...These are typically technical talks to find a solution and let this transit go to Europe," he added.
Evan Gershkovich

Gershkovich's defense team had requested a softer preventive measure, such as house arrest, restrictions on certain activities, or a bail of 50 million rubles.

Read also: Russias FSB charges WSJ journalist Gershkovich with espionage

When asked by the judge if he needed the court's decision to be translated to him, Gershkovich replied, "No, it's clear. Thank you very much."

The appeal was considered behind closed doors, though U.S Ambassador to Russia, Lynn Tracy, attended. She was permitted to visit the detained journalist for the first time one day earlier.

Tracy said that the U.S. would continue to demand consular access and the release of Gershkovich, as well as Paul Whelan, the U.S. businessman serving a 16-year prison sentence in Russia.

Read also: State Department urges US citizens to leave Russia immediately

The Lefortovo Court in Moscow arrested Evan Gershkovich on March 30. Russian security services claim that he collected information on a state defense enterprise "at the request of the United States."

He was detained in Yekaterinburg, accompanied by publicist Yaroslav Shirshikov, who said that Gershkovich was preparing a report on Wagner PMC and the war in Ukraine.

The Wall Street Journal rejects the Russian regime's allegations and demands the immediate release of the journalist.

The United States recognized Gershkovich's arrest as unlawful, allowing the state to negotiate on his behalf. His case will be handled by the State Department unit that typically handles hostage negotiations.

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 Russian military attacked the centre of the city of Kherson on the morning of 18 April, killing one person and injuring nine others.

Source: Oleksandr Prokudin, Head of Kherson Oblast Military Administration; Andrii Yermak, Head of the Presidents Office of Ukraine, on Telegram

Quote from Prokudin: "Attention! The centre of Kherson is under fire! Take cover!".

Details: At the same time, Yermak clarified that the occupiers attacked the Central Market area. Six people have been injured during the Russian artillery shelling.

Update: Prokudin later reported that one person had been killed and seven injured.

The head of the Oblast Military Administration (OMA) published a photo of the aftermath of the Russian attack. He noted that there is no military facility near the site hit by the Russians.

Later, Kherson Oblast Military Administration clarified that nine people had sustained injuries.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
(CNN)  Air France and Airbus have been found not guilty of involuntary homicide in a criminal trial over the 2009 crash of a flight from Rio de Janeiro to Paris that killed 228 passengers and crew.

The national carrier and plane manufacturing giant had been charged over their alleged role in the disaster after a previous investigation was dropped in 2019.

Looking at the science at the time, no criminal liability seems to me to be applicable, one of the magistrates said, according to CNN affiliate BFMTV.

The acquittal was confirmed in an abstract of the courts ruling provided by the Paris prosecutors office.

State prosecutors had taken the unusual step of admitting to the court that it was impossible to pin the blame on either company, BFMTV reported.

That is the part of the decision that we cannot  we do not  know how to be satisfied by, because nothing in our world, in our age, can justify that 228 people took a flight leaving Rio for Paris and never landed, David Koubbi, a lawyer representing some of the families of victims of the crash, told BFMTV.

However, the court did find certain Airbus or Air France practices to be reckless or negligent. One issue is that Airbus did not replace faulty devices called pitot tubes, sensors crucial to determining an aircrafts speed and altitude. Problems with pitot tubes had affected Airbus aircraft in the past.

Air France, for its part, did not properly flag past reports of incidents with these tubes to pilots, according to the court.

Both companies are now liable for civil damages as a result. A subsequent hearing has been set for September 4.

Koubbi said these are not the claims for which his clients wanted compensation.

The 2009 crash

Mystery initially surrounded the crash of Air France flight 447, an A330, in part because it occurred while the plane was flying over the Atlantic Ocean. Most fatal aircraft accidents happen close to take-off or landing, not mid-flight.

Frances Bureau dEnquetes et dAnalyses (BEA) concluded in 2012 that problems were first caused by icing on the pitot tubes. Once these sensors failed, the autopilot disengaged and the cockpit crew lost reliable readouts of flight data. The plane then plunged.

Airbus retrofitted pitot tubes on aircrafts in 2019 following a directive from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency.

Had they been convicted, the companies would have each faced a fine of 225,000 ($245,629).

In a statement, Airbus said it reaffirms the full commitment of the company and all its employees to keep prioritizing a safety-first culture across the company and the aviation sector.

An Air France spokesperson said the company wishes to reaffirm its continued trust in all of its pilots and flight crews and reiterates that the safety of its customers and crews is its absolute priority.

This story was first published on CNN.com, Air France and Airbus acquitted in trial over 2009 plane crash"
US journalist Evan Gershkovich's court appearance in Moscow on Tuesday will be a rare break from his isolation in Lefortovo prison -- a symbol of repression since Soviet times.

The detention facility, which has housed a long list of high-profile figures, is engineered by the FSB security service to keep detainees in near-total solitude.

"It's a frozen prison, they're isolating you as much as possible from the outside world and from other prisoners, apart from your cellmate," said Igor Rudnikov, a former detainee and journalist.

AFP spoke to Rudnikov and lawyers, activists and families to gain insight into life in the prison.

Inside the pale-yellow 19th-century building, inmates are forbidden from seeing or speaking to any detainee other than the one cellmate allocated to them.

"It's hard to describe... imagine, you're only ever with one man, in an eight-square-metre cell, 24/7," said Rudnikov, who spent almost 10 months there in 2017-2018.

Daily walks are also taken as a pair, in a roofless space roughly the same size as a cell.

"Even a husband and wife in love can't spend that long together, let alone people who have just met," he continued.

For Rudnikov, this was "definitely a way to apply psychological pressure," just like the constant artificial light and noise in the building.

- 'Sound of Lefortovo' -

Much of Lefortovo's four-storey internal structure is metallic -- stairs, doors, floors and trolleys -- so the building "rattles and rings" non-stop.

The system that prevents inmates from seeing anyone when moving around the prison adds to the noise.

To warn others to stay out of the way, guards loudly snap their fingers or rattle their keys as they lead prisoners through.

"That's the peculiar sound of Lefortovo, which you hear when you walk through its corridors," said Maria Eismont, a lawyer who goes regularly to the facility.

Everyone AFP spoke to, however, agreed that material conditions were better at the FSB-controlled facility than in other Russian jails.

Story continues

Lefortovo is unusual in Russia's regular prison system, as it holds high-profile people investigated for crimes including treason, terrorism or espionage.

Former US Marine Paul Whelan was detained there in 2018 before being sentenced to 16 years on espionage charges and transferred to another prison.

Lefortovo has held famous detainees since Soviet times, including writer Alexander Solzhenitsyn -- briefly -- or Mathias Rust, a German pilot who made a stunning landing near Red Square in 1987.

Across Russia, its name instantly evokes memories of Stalinist purges.

In the 1930s, it was rare that prisoners left the buildings alive, according to the rights organisation Memorial.

Times have changed however, and the lawyers AFP spoke to had not heard of physical abuse in recent years.

"It's a very harsh but correct and polite detention facility," Eismont, who currently has three defendants in Lefortovo, summed up.

"The main thing is that people are cut off from the outside world as much as possible," she said.

- 'Closed world' -

As part of that, it is impossible for lawyers to bring anything -- even letters -- to their defendants.

"Usually, I take some chocolate to share with the person I'm going to see. In Lefortovo, they don't even let you bring your water bottle," Eismont said.

Ksenia Mironova, a 25-year-old journalist for Helpdesk media, remembered being laughed at for asking to buy credit for a phone call to her partner Ivan Safronov.

"They said, 'how naive are you to expect to get phone calls'," she recalled.

Safronov, a respected journalist, spent two years in Lefortovo before being sentenced to 22 years for treason in a remote prison colony.

For the pair, hand-written letters became a vital line of communication.

Mironova recalled "drowning in tears" after first receiving letters from Safronov.

"I used to carry this letter with me, in my bag, all the time," she said.

Then, halfway through Safronov's second year at Lefortovo, the letters stopped coming completely.

It seems investigators -- who read each letter and choose whether or not to pass them on -- decided to withhold them.

Mironova recalled how "weird" she felt walking around the streets near Lefortovo being so close to Safronov but knowing he was "in a completely closed world".

"One day, though, we'll open up this fortress."

brw/bur/bp
(Reuters) -The Russian-installed head of the Moscow-controlled part of Ukraine's Donetsk region met Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko in Minsk on Tuesday and said he had discussed ways of boosting trade.

The visit by Denis Pushilin prompted Ukraine to protest about what it called a "blatantly unfriendly act" by Belarus, a close ally of Russia that allowed Moscow's forces to use its territory as a launching pad for the February 2022 invasion.

Pushilin, writing on Telegram, said he was interested in quarry equipment, tractors and buses as well as building products and furniture.

In return, his region was ready to export grain to Belarus, in addition to existing shipments of sunflower seeds.

The so-called Donetsk People's Republic is one of the four regions in Ukraine that Moscow proclaimed as its own last September in an exercise Ukraine and its allies called a "sham", coercive referendum.

In a statement, the Ukrainian foreign ministry called on Minsk to stop taking "destructive steps" and said it was recalling its ambassador to Belarus for consultations.

(Reporting by Reuters; Editing by Frank Jack Daniel, David Ljunggren and Jonathan Oatis)
REUTERS/Evgenia Novozhenina

A convicted murderer pardoned after fighting in the war against Ukraine with the notorious Wagner Group is accused of stabbing a local man to death after returning homethe second such case in less than a month.

Authorities in the capital of the self-proclaimed republic of South Ossetia launched a manhunt late Monday after a well-known local man was repeatedly stabbed.

Soslan Valiyev, described as developmentally delayed and a local celebrity of sorts, was knifed multiple times in Tskhinvali on Monday evening, according to local reports citing police.

Georgy Siukayev now stands accused of his murder. Siukayev, taken into custody just a few hours after the grisly killing, had only recently returned from the battlefield in Ukraine. Hed been serving a prison sentence for a 2014 murder when he was apparently recruited by Wagner, according to local media.

Disaster has occurred. If Siukayev is guilty, and the evidence leads back to himit is necessary to get him. Everyone who may have covered for him, hid his vehicleall must be detained, the president of the self-proclaimed republic declared at an emergency overnight meeting, calling the murder a high-profile case.

Former leader Eduard Kokoyti paid tribute to Valiyev on Telegram, describing him as a kind and harmless guy who was loved by everyone, with rare exceptions and a kind of symbol of Tskhinvali.

Wagner Boss Claims Russias Mission Accomplished in Ukraine

Police said two other people had been detained in connection with the murder, though Siukayev was identified as the direct perpetrator. He allegedly committed the murder less than three weeks after returning to the area on March 27.

Last month, a similarly tragic situation played out in the Kirov region, where a 28-year-old Wagner fighter and convicted killer on break from the war allegedly beat and stabbed a pensioner to death.

Wagner founder Yevgeny Prigozhin, in comments to The Daily Beast, did not deny that Siukayev was a member of the mercenary group. Instead, he insisted that repeat offenses by the groups recruited former prisoners are still incredibly rare, and that crime has decreased tenfold thanks to the group.

Story continues

He went on to suggest Siukayev had actually acted heroically to defend local residents against someone he claimed was harassing people. According to him, the Wagner fighter had stepped in and stabbed Valiyev after the latter had begun to insult and threaten passengers inside a vehicle who called for help.

Surveillance footage of the moments leading up to the murder show a man identified as Valiyev speaking to someone inside a vehicle, but he is clearly seen walking away as Siukayev appears to start attacking him.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Brazil pushed back against US criticism that President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva is parroting Russian and Chinese propaganda on the Ukraine war as he held talks with Moscow's top diplomat.

Lula's meeting Monday with Sergei Lavrov in Brasilia follows state visits to China and the Middle East, during which Lula said the United States should "stop encouraging war and start talking about peace" in Ukraine.

He also claimed Kyiv shares the blame for the conflict, which began when Russian forces poured into Ukraine in February 2022.

Lula's remarks echoed a line frequently used by Moscow and its strategic ally Beijing, which blame the West for the war.

In addition to earning a US reproof the comments drew frustration Tuesday from Kyiv, which warned Brazil's leader was giving "equal weighting" to Ukraine and Russia over the war's origins.

China seeks to position itself as neutral on the Ukraine conflict, but has maintained its partnership with Moscow and refrained from imposing sanctions.

In the Brazilian capital, Lavrov thanked Lula for his discussions last week on seeking to help mediate peace talks.

But Lula's recent remarks on Ukraine sparked criticism from the White House, which has spearheaded international efforts to isolate Moscow and bolster Kyiv.

"In this case, Brazil is parroting Russian and Chinese propaganda without at all looking at the facts," US National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters on Monday.

He described Lula's message on the war as "deeply problematic."

Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira, who had also met with his Russian counterpart, shot back, saying: "I don't know how or why he reached that conclusion but I do not agree at all."

Despite Lula's comments about the United States, the 77-year-old, who returned to power in January after serving two terms from 2003 to 2010, is also seeking closer ties with Washington.

His visits to China and the United Arab Emirates came after meeting in February with US President Joe Biden.

Story continues

But Lula's latest remarks antagonized Kyiv, which stressed Brasilia was denying Russian aggression as the cause of the conflict.

"An approach that gives equal weighting to the victim and the aggressor and accuses countries that help Ukraine defend itself against deadly aggression of encouraging war, does not correspond to the real state of affairs," Ukraine's foreign ministry spokesman Oleg Nikolenko wrote on Facebook.

- Latin America tour -

G7 foreign ministers warned Tuesday that any nation helping Russia's war effort would face "severe costs."

Meeting in Japan, the top diplomats from the world's leading economies pledged to crack down on those helping Russia evade sanctions and acquire weapons.

Brazil has not joined Western nations in imposing sanctions on Russia for its invasion, and has refused requests to supply ammunition to Ukraine.

"We are grateful to our Brazilian friends for their clear understanding of the genesis of the situation (in Ukraine). We are grateful for their desire to contribute to finding ways of settling this situation," Lavrov said after meeting with his Brazilian counterpart.

Russia desires a swift end to the conflict but any solution would have to be based on "multipolarity," he said, accusing the West of "trying to dominate the international arena."

Washington does not have "any objection to any country that wants to try to bring an end to the war," Kirby said.

"That could happen right now, today, if Mr (Russian President Vladimir) Putin would stop attacking Ukraine and pull its troops out."

Brazil is Lavrov's first stop on a weeklong Latin American tour that will include Venezuela, Nicaragua and Cuba -- countries with leftist governments hostile to Washington.

rsr-jhb/mlm/bp
By Michelle Nichols

UNITED NATIONS (Reuters) -Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will discuss the Ukraine Black Sea grain export deal with U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in New York next week, just weeks before the pact could expire unless Russian demands regarding its own exports are met.

Lavrov is due to chair two U.N. Security Council meetings as Russia holds the presidency of the 15-member body for April. Russian U.N. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia said Lavrov and most of his delegation had received U.S. visas to travel to New York.

He will also meet with Guterres, said Nebenzia. Russia has warned that the outlook for the deal allowing the safe wartime export of grain and fertilizer from Ukrainian Black Sea ports beyond May 18 is "not so great."

"Of course, he will be raising that during his bilateral (meeting with Guterres)," Nebenzia told reporters.

"Nothing is moving, efforts are being made but unfortunately they are fruitless for us," he said, referring to U.N. attempts to help facilitate Russia's own food and fertilizer exports despite broad Western sanctions imposed on Moscow over its Feb. 24, 2022 invasion. "We clearly said we want to see progress."

The grain export deal was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey in July 2022 to help tackle a global food crisis that U.N. officials said had been worsened by Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the deadliest war in Europe since World War Two.

It was extended in November and then last month Russia only agreed to renew the deal for at least 60 days, half the intended period. Moscow said it would only consider a further extension if several demands in relation to its own exports were met.

"We continue to be determined to have this deal implemented fully as we are continuing with determination to work on the other part of the package, which is the facilitation of Russian grain and fertilizer. The stakes for this are very high," U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric said on Tuesday.

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To help persuade Russia to allow Ukraine to resume Black Sea grain exports, a separate three-year pact was also struck in July in which the U.N. agreed to help Russia export food and fertilizer.

Ukraine said on Monday that the Black Sea grain deal faced the threat of being halted.

(Reporting by Michelle Nichols; editing by Doina Chiacu, Mark Heinrich and Jonathan Oatis)
(Reuters) - Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu told his Chinese counterpart on Tuesday that their countries' military cooperation was a "stabilising" force in the world and helped to reduce the chances of conflict, Russian news agencies reported.

China has emerged as Russia's most important international partner in the 14 months since Moscow invaded Ukraine. Chinese Defence Minister Li Shangfu is currently in Moscow as the countries look to deepen their military cooperation, which has raised concerns in the West.

"The coordination of our efforts in the international arena has a stabilising effect on the global situation and helps to reduce the potential for conflict," the Interfax news agency quoted Shoigu as telling Li on Tuesday.

Li met President Vladimir Putin on Sunday.

Shoigu said it was important that the two countries coordinated their efforts on the global stage, and expressed confidence that a programme of joint military exercises would be expanded.

Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Moscow last month in a show of support for Putin, days after the International Criminal Court called for the Russian leader's arrest on suspicion of war crimes in Ukraine.

(Reporting by Reuters; Editing by Kevin Liffey)
Map of Rwanda

Rwanda, a small landlocked country in east-central Africa, is trying to recover from the ethnic strife that culminated in government-sponsored genocide in the mid-1990s.

An estimated 800,000 ethnic Tutsis and moderate Hutus were killed by dominant Hutu forces in 100 days.

Rwanda has striven to rebuild its economy, with coffee and tea production among its main exports, and economic development has helped reduce poverty and inequality.

Paul Kagame became president in 2000 and has effectively run Rwanda since 1994. While his government has maintained stability and economic growth, the US-based NGO Freedom House says it has also suppressed political dissent through intimidation, torture and suspected assassinations of exiled dissidents.

Read more country profiles - Profiles by BBC Monitoring

REPUBLIC OF RWANDA: FACTS

Capital: Kigali

Area: 26,338 sq km

Population: 13.8 million

Languages: Kinyarwanda, French, English, Swahili

Life expectancy: 64 years (men) 69 years (women)

LEADER

President: Paul Kagame

Rwanda President Paul Kagame

Paul Kagame has run Rwanda since his rebel army ended the slaughter of hundreds of thousands of people in 1994.

He was sworn in as vice-president and defence minister in the post-genocide government in July 1994, but was widely seen as the real power in Rwanda.

In 2000 parliament elected him president. He has won elections ever since, the last was in 2017 where official figures showed he won 99% of the vote, which many outside the country dismissed as a sham. He has said he will stand again in 2024.

To his admirers he is a visionary leader, but to his critics he is an authoritarian despot who tolerates no opposition.

MEDIA

Radio soap operas have been used to foster peace and reconciliation and to help heal the wounds left by the genocide

State TV and radio reach the largest audiences and operate alongside privately-owned outlets.

Self-censorship is commonplace, says Reporters Without Borders. Exile journalists operate online, prompting website blocking, says Freedom House.

TIMELINE

Rwanda is home to an estimated one-third of the worldwide mountain gorilla population

Some key dates in the history of Rwanda:

700BC-1500AD - Bantu groups migrate into Rwanda, clearing forest land for agriculture. The original forest-dwellers, ancestor's of today's Twa, move to the mountainous areas.

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15th-19th Centuries - Clans begin to merge into kingdoms. One of these, the Kingdom of Rwanda becomes increasingly dominant from the mid-18th Century, reaching its greatest extent under the reign of King Kigeli Rwabugiri in the 19th Century.

1890 - Rwanda becomes part of German East Africa, following the colonial partitioning of Africa in the 1884 Berlin Conference.

1914-1918 - World War One.

1916 - Belgian forces invade German-held Rwanda.

1922 - Belgium rules both Rwanda and Burundi as a League of Nations mandate called Ruanda-Urundi. Both the Germans and the Belgians promote Tutsi supremacy, considering the Hutu and Tutsi different races.

1959 - Tutsi King Kigeri V, together with tens of thousands of Tutsis, forced into exile in Uganda following Hutu-Tutsi violence.

1961 - Belgium - now pro-Hutu - holds a referendum in which Rwanda votes to abolish the monarchy.

1962 - Rwanda separates from Burundi and gains independence.

1963 - About 20,000 Tutsis are killed following an incursion by Tutsi rebels based in Burundi. Fighting between the two ethnic groups continues intermittently over the next three decades.

1990-1994 - Rwandan civil war. The rebel Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF) composed of nearly 500,000 Tutsi refugees, invades northern Rwanda from Uganda. The RPF condemns the Hutu-dominated government for failing to democratize.

1993 - Peace treaty signed.

1994 - Ceasefire ends when Rwandan President Juvenal Habyarimana and Burundi's President Cyprien Ntaryamira are killed in a rocket attack on their aircraft. Most theories say the aircraft was shot down either by the RPF or government-aligned Hutu followers opposed to talks with the RPF.

Mr Habyarimana's death triggers a 100-day orgy of violence, the Rwandan genocide, perpetrated mainly by Hutus against Tutsis and moderate Hutus. About 800,000 people are killed.

1996-2003 - Rwanda's invasion of DR Congo marks the beginning of its lengthy involvement in the neighbouring country's two civil wars.

2003 - Voters back a draft constitution which bans the incitement of ethnic hatred. Paul Kagame wins the first presidential elections since the 1994 genocide.

2005 - Government begins the mass release of thousands who confessed to involvement in the 1994 genocide. Rwanda's 12 provinces are replaced by a smaller number of regions with the aim of creating ethnically-diverse administrative areas.

2015 - The International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda holds its last hearings, 10 years after opening, and having convicted 93 individuals in connection with the 1994 genocide.

2017 - President Kagame re-elected with 99% of the vote in polls denounced as unfair by independent observers.
Ryan Reynolds in a suit and Hugh Jackman doing a bicep curl. Jeremy Chan/Getty Images/Hugh Jackman/Instagram

Ryan Reynolds is "trying" to keep up with Hugh Jackman's "Deadpool 3" training.

He called the Australian star a "beast" and joked that he's "obsessed with his own body."

In March, Jackman showed off his 8,000-calorie meals as he prepares for his return as Wolverine.

The cameras haven't started rolling on Marvel Studios' "Deadpool 3" just yet, but leading men Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman are already hard at work getting in shape for their respective roles.

Jackman is no stranger to bulking up to wield the adamantium claws on the big screen after playing Wolverine nine times since 2000, but he's pushing himself harder than ever as he returns to the role at the age of 54.

In fact, last month, the Australian star shared with fans that he's eating 8,000 calories a day to give his body what it needs to get into superhero shape. That includes two steaks, chicken burgers, and black bass.

Reynolds is also working out for the sequel, and posted to Instagram several weeks ago a photo of himself in the gym with the caption: "Keeping Up With The Jackmans."

The Deadpool actor also recently told ET Canada that he's "trying" to keep up with his costar, who he called "a beast."

"I'm trying Hugh Jackman is a beast, you know? He's clearly obsessed with his own body. So, keeping up with someone who's that diligent is going to be challenging. But, yeah, it's been fun," said Reynolds.

The duo are clearly having fun with their playful dynamic ahead of "Deadpool 3," as Jackman responded to the interview by saying: "More like petrified. Have you seen you?"

Reynolds also said that he didn't stop "pestering" Jackman about "Deadpool 3," and said that the timing was finally right for the actor's return as Wolverine.

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He explained: "I mean, I never stopped I was just pestering him like a gnat over the last many years. I believe in timing, as much as hard work and luck and all those intersections that are supposed to meet. Timing's the big one. I think he was ready. I think he was excited."

"And what we pitched him was enough of a divergence from the character that he knows and the character that he's left behind, that it gives him something completely new to play and something that he's really excited to do," Reynolds added.

Read the original article on Insider
The Sacramento County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously Tuesday to close two motels where 212 homeless people live. The hotels became shelter space through Project Roomkey, a pandemic-response homelessness initiative.

The new resolution clears the way for the county to spend $6.3 million in federal funding to ramp down and close this emergency sheltering program. The supervisors did not discuss the item at the public meeting before approving it, along with all other consent matters.

The 212 people, a county spokesperson said, will not be guaranteed permanent housing.

The vote comes two months after the supervisors axed an organization  Sacramento Self-Help Housing  that housed 560 low-income people in the county. The county also has at least 7,000 more unsheltered residents than it has beds to offer on any given night.

Sacramento (County) needs not to ramp down any shelter situations, said Crystal Sanchez, president of the Sacramento Homeless Union. Sacramento Self-Help Housing is closing and we do not have enough shelter space as it is.

The supervisors cut funding to that nonprofit without setting a path to keep those 560 people in their homes. Weeks later, they voted to redirect county money to landlords to pay rent temporarily for Self-Help Housing participants, but did not take over those residents leases.

Three Project Roomkey motels initially opened shortly after COVID-19 hit the U.S. in early 2020. Between that spring and the winter of 2022, more than 2,500 people spent time in the hotels. In that nearly two-year span, only 17% of the participants were connected to permanent housing. The county previously defunded the third hotel.

On average, said county Public Information Manager Janna Haynes, people now in Project Roomkey hotels have been living in their rooms for 277 days  more than nine months. These residents work with community-based providers who are often focusing more efforts on clients still living on the streets, Haynes said. The new resolution will dedicate onsite rehousing navigators who only work with Project Roomkey participants.

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According to a document attached to Tuesdays agenda, working with the new housing navigators will be compulsory; those who do not work with the navigators  or who decline housing twice  will be evicted.

The proposed agreement says, Refusal to engage with the rehousing navigator within 10 days of intial (sic) contract (sic) will be exited from the program. Refusals of two viable and reasonable housing options will result in the exit of the PRK participants.

People in these rooms have had access to services for the duration of their stay.

The resolution will makes changes for them: Haynes said in an email that the new navigators will help people look for housing, fill out applications, find transportation to housing and work out move-in logistics. She said, Having a caseload of persons on-site and available daily will make for better outcomes.

The $6.3 million to close the hotels comes from the federal American Rescue Plan Act. The countys Department of Human Assistance recommended this new plan, with projected closures on June 30 and Oct. 31 .

According to the agencys request to the board, $167,000 of the requested funds will go to rehousing services through June, while $96,000 will go to security and $1.9 million will go toward sheltering services, including keeping the motels running during the wind-down period.

The Bees Theresa Clift contributed to this story.
Southwest Airlines flights were temporarily grounded nationwide Tuesday morning due to technical issues, according to the airline and the Federal Aviation Administration, resulting in delays.

Southwest Airlines requested the FAA pause the airlines departures, the FAA tweeted shortly after 7:30 a.m. Pacific time. The pause was then fully canceled, the FAA said in an update a half-hour later.

Earlier this morning, Southwest requested that FAA pause Southwest departures due to an internal technical issue at Southwest, FAA officials wrote.

Close to 800 domestic flights through Southwest were delayed due to the issue as of 8 a.m., according to flight tracking website Flight Aware, including 61 at Sacramento International Airport, which relies heavily on the airline.

The airline in social media responses to travelers said the delays were due to intermittent technology issues.

We have had to implement a ground stop as a result of intermittent issues that were experienced, and we should hopefully be resuming our operation as soon as possible, the airline wrote in a Twitter reply.

Southwest Airlines shortly after Christmas last year experienced major problems that resulted in thousands of flight cancellations over the course of several days.

During that crisis, Sacramento International Airport was among the most heavily disrupted of all U.S. airports.

This morning @SouthwestAir experienced a technical issue with one of their internal systems.



At the airlines request, the FAA paused Southwests departures as they resolved the issue.



The pause has been lifted and their service has resumed.  The FAA  (@FAANews) April 18, 2023

Southwest Airlines requested the FAA pause the airlines departures.



Please contact Southwest Airlines for more.  The FAA  (@FAANews) April 18, 2023
(CNN)  The newest addition to the Oregon Zoo is adorable, and its helping boost the population of a once-endangered species.

A baby bontebok was born at the Zoo April 1 to Winter, his 8-year-old mother, according to a news release from the Oregon Zoo.

The bontebok is a species of grazing antelope native to the coastal plains of northwestern South Africa, according to the zoos website. But after being hunted to near extinction in the early 20th century, the herbivores are now only found in zoos, farms, and game preserves.

The yet-unnamed calf weighs just around 18 pounds and appears healthy, the news release explained. The baby received supplemental feedings and a plasma transfusion because he did not start nursing immediately after birth. He seems to have bounced back, the zoo said.

We gave him a couple supplemental bottle feedings and then returned him to mom, said Kelly Gomez, who oversees the zoos Africa section, in the release. And then overnight, he was nursing just fine. Hes a sturdy little guy, and quite handsome.

Gomez described the baby boy as living proof of the impact people can have if we work together for wildlife.

A couple hundred years ago, there were only 17 bontebok left on the planet, and the species was headed for almost certain extinction, she said in the release.

The antelopes were overhunted by Dutch settlers in southern Africa during the 18th and 19th centuries who viewed them as pests, according to the zoo.

But the bontebok is distinct from other antelopes in one crucial way: They are unable to jump. Because of this, some sympathetic farmers were able to safely enclose the 17 bontebok still alive in a fenced property in 1837, says the zoo.

In 1931, Bontebok National Park was established in South Africa and the species began to slowly rebound.

Today, bontebok are categorized as vulnerable by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature. There are an estimated 2,500 to 3,000 of the antelope.

Its an incredible conservation story, Gomez said in the release. And hopefully, we can inspire more successes like this for the future.

This story was first published on CNN.com, An incredible conservation story: Oregon Zoo welcomes birth of rare antelope once facing extinction"
In June 2021, Cyndi Lopez-Spencer was about to start her dream job.

She grew up in a violent home where trauma left its mark. Now in her 40s, she was the new director of operations at WEAVE, the Sacramento regions most prominent nonprofit for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and sex trafficking.

I was so excited to be there, Lopez-Spencer told The Bee, and not just because the organizations mission was so closely aligned with hers. She would also be working almost exclusively with women, in a place she thought would be safe and empowering.

Six months later, Lopez-Spencer stacked her belongings on a rolling utility cart, dropped her keys on her desk, walked out of WEAVEs midtown office and never returned.

In a Dec. 10, 2021 letter to the nonprofits board of directors, Lopez-Spencer said that WEAVE, an organization created to provide support and sanctuary for abused women, was itself poisoned by a culture of emotional and verbal abuse.

Lopez-Spencer, whos been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder, a condition she said she disclosed to the organizations human resources office when she started, described locking herself in her office to cry or to endure another panic attack after being yelled at and humiliated by the women who run the organization.

The CEO of WEAVE is Beth Hassett, who has been in the job since 2006. Reporting to Hassett are Chief Program Officer Gina Roberson, Chief People and Talent Officer Marnie Shuey, and chief officers of finance, counseling, community response, and compliance.

I am a DV (domestic violence) survivor myself, Lopez-Spencer wrote to the board. The treatment by members of (senior management) is abusive, and counter to everything that WEAVE stands for.

The Sacramento Bee spoke to 13 current and former WEAVE staff members from across the organizations teams: operations, counseling, prevention and education, advocacy and legal. Many did not know one another. The former employees were there from 2018 to earlier this year; two currently work at WEAVE.

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Each described an organization that, despite its mission, is belittling to its diverse staff and tone deaf to evolving conversations about race and racism, issues that can trickle down to the services it provides its clients. Most spoke on condition of anonymity, either because they still work at WEAVE or remain in the same field and fear retribution. (Anonymous sources are known to the reporter and two Bee editors.)

Many staff who spoke to The Bee said taking their issues to WEAVES HR office would have been be a dead end. They labeled the group of chief executives  including the head of HR  as cliquey, and feared that the close personal relationships among executive staff might influence their view of employee complaints.

Hassett and WEAVE Board President Ashley West denied these allegations in an in-person interview and written statements.

As a workplace and leadership team, WEAVE is working continuously to live our mission in action and to evolve our practices, Hassett said in a statement.

We are open, transparent and collaborative. We strive to keep our lines of communication with all employees open and have a dedicated human resources specialist team to address concerns.

 You do realize this is a DV agency we work for, right?

WEAVE, originally an acronym for Women Escaping a Violent Environment, was founded in 1978 by three Latina domestic violence survivors, Sandra Orozco Stapleton, Ramona Delgado and Jennie Hernandez Gin. From a shoestring nonprofit, it has grown into Sacramentos leading provider of services for people in crisis. WEAVE reported that in 2021 it provided shelter to 146 adults and children, counseling to 524 individuals, legal services to 684 and answered more than 7,000 calls on its 24/7 crisis hotline.

In 2022, it received about $6.5 million in government grants and $2.4 million in other contributions. Its staff are embedded in police departments and sheriffs offices to help victims report violence or assault. In schools, from elementary through college, they teach classes and lead workshops on healthy relationships and intimate partner violence.

Hassett was named one of Sacramentos Most Admired CEOs by the Sacramento Business Journal in 2020. Four years earlier, she was honored by the Congressional Victims Rights Caucus with the Ed Stout Memorial Award for Outstanding Victim Advocacy.

In celebrating 25 years with WEAVE in 2021, Hassett told Inside Sacramento that shed undertaken a rebrand that included changing the organizations acronym from Women Escaping a Violent Environment to When Everyone Acts, Violence Ends.

The new language reflects the importance of educating yourself about what leads to violent acts, intervening when you see somebody behaving badly, donating clothes to our thrift stores, donating money, Hassett said. I like the positivity of (the new name). It shows that we all have a role  even if we dont think weve been touched by it, we have.

Staff The Bee interviewed were enthusiastic about WEAVEs mission. For many of them, the work is personal; they or someone they know and love was affected by domestic or intimate partner violence.

But Lopez-Spencer is one of many current and former employees who say the workplace culture created by Hassett is antithetical to the mission of promoting safe and healthy relationships. They say they pursued this mission despite workplace leadership, rather than because of it.

Edward Costa, director of operations before Lopez-Spencer, had spent his career in finance before coming to WEAVE in 2020. He said he made the change because he wanted to work for an organization that served its community. Costa found himself shocked that leadership at a domestic violence agency would treat its employees so badly.

I wanted to work for a company that does good and gives back, he said. I was very excited to join the company  but pretty much from the day I got there, I wondered what the hell I got myself into  I came from corporate America! The banking industry! And I had never seen anything like it.

There was constant degrading, yelling, trashing other employees out loud over the phone, he said.

He stayed for 10 months.

You do realize this is a DV agency we work for, right? Costa recalls saying to his supervisor multiple times. It blew my mind that they would talk to people the way they did, treat the people the way they did.

Lopez-Spencer recalled two interactions with Gina Roberson, the chief program officer who oversees all victim advocacy and intervention services. Both rose above the level of a heated workplace disagreement, she said.

The first occurred when Lopez-Spencer had been at WEAVE for just a few months, she said. Following a group email discussion about the organizations safehouse for women and children, she said Roberson came to her office and yelled at her until she was red in the face. The door was wide open, and two other advocacy team members watched from across the hall.

They were both standing there staring at me, she said, while Gina  yelled at me, like Im the dumbest dumb-dumb in the history of people. She just yelled and yelled and yelled.

Later, staff who had watched the exchange went in to comfort her, and told her not to take it personally, as Roberson has a pattern of such behavior.

The second interaction was similar  a disagreement triggered by a meeting about security at the safehouse.

She came up to my office later that day and went zero-to-60 in a second; red in the face, yelling. I just stood there and let her yell at me.

Roberson denied both of these stories and said that WEAVE does not have a toxic workplace culture.

I do not scream at people I work with, Roberson told The Bee in a written statement. And I do not have the context for what instance she is recalling. Roberson said that in the 4-and-a-half years shes worked at WEAVE, she has supervised 10 members of leadership and only two have left, voluntarily and on good terms.

I work really hard to support my staff, build a team atmosphere, and develop great working relationships, she told The Bee. I write personal notes of thanks and appreciation to my staff and colleagues, including one to Cindy Lopez-Spencer letting her know how much I was glad she was there and that she was doing a great job.

Hassett also denied that WEAVE has a toxic workplace culture.

WEAVE has an extensive commitment to creating a workplace where everyone belongs and feels safe, she said. We always review and take action when a question arises.

Three weeks after The Bee interviewed Hassett and West, Costa, Lopez-Spencer and another source for this story received an email from Shaw Law Group, asking to interview them for an internal complaint, as they may have information that would be useful for the investigation.

We take the facts implied by your questions very seriously and have hired a law firm to investigate them, Hassett told The Bee. We will not comment further on the workplace investigation.

Not my monkeys, not my circus

Current and former staff said that WEAVEs executive leadership  comprised primarily of middle-aged white women  has failed to stay in step with evolving conversations about race and racism. WEAVE leaders deny this.

This is a subjective judgment about which we strongly disagree, Hassett said in a written statement. Our dedication to DEI training, practices and workplace culture demonstrates otherwise.

In March 2019, the District Attorneys office announced it would not prosecute the Sacramento police officers who shot and killed Stephon Clark. The year prior, two police officers chased the unarmed father of two through his grandmothers backyard in Sacramentos Meadowview neighborhood, before shooting at him 20 times. It was the latest in a series of officer-involved shootings that were often followed by an aggressive police response to protests.

As concern grew about police violence in Black neighborhoods, WEAVE staff met to discuss the news. Black employees worried that communities of color were hesitant to seek WEAVEs help, given its close ties to law enforcement. They were also concerned about how WEAVE would respond to the shooting and the DAs subsequent ruling.

For some of our Black community, people dont feel safe with the police, said a former staff member who worked with commercially and sexually exploited children.

There was a discussion about that. I asked, Where do we stand on safety for Black and Brown communities?

Alex Wilson, a WEAVE community educator from November 2018 to March 2019, was in the meeting.

(Staff members of color) were talking about safety, but (Hassett) was talking about how WEAVE should respond (in the media), about WEAVEs image and appearance, she said. It felt like it was more about Beths association with the DA than actual concern for our Black clients.

Then Hassett made a comment that sucked the air out of the room.

You know what? she said. Not my monkeys, not my circus.

The room went dead silent, according to Wilson.

We were kind of like, Did that just happen? recalled another former staff member who worked on the victim advocacy team. The energy in the room definitely shifted.

Hassett told The Bee that she regrets using the phrase, but that no ill intent or cynicism was meant.

Hassett told The Bee that during the meeting Wilson and others described, a staff member asked the question, How does WEAVE decide when we speak to the media about an issue?

A phrase was used that, in hindsight, is regretful..., Hassett said in an interview. The words did not land well. I apologize for that.

She also said that WEAVE leadership met with the DA to inform her how damaging the District Attorneys decision was to communities WEAVE serves and offered to broker conversations with WEAVE allies.

Black staff and other staff members of color said the comment represented executive leaderships lack of cultural competency.

That was the pivotal moment for me, said the former staff member on the exploited children team, a woman of color. Theres no way someone can say that and then do the work. I was done at that moment, and I had to find a way to exit, which was difficult. She quit shortly thereafter.

Wilson said she believes she was fired for calling attention to organizational blind spots on race. Hassett strongly disputes this. She said she could not go into details about Wilsons departure, but categorically denies that she or anyone else has ever been fired for pushing back against leadership, especially about race.

We do talk about race and diversity often and no employee has ever been terminated or received negative feedback for discussing race related issues, Hassett said in a written statement.

Wilson, who is Black, recalled talking with a colleague of color on her team who said that cultural appropriation is not that big of a deal. Given the diverse student body that Wilson and her colleague worked with, Wilson was concerned about her colleagues placement in a majority-Black Sacramento high school.

If this is how she thinks about cultural appropriation, what else does she think about (those) communities?

Wilson had a meeting with the team manager and her colleague about the interaction, where she felt her concerns went unheard and unaddressed. Shortly after, Wilson recalls being honest with her team manager about the meeting where Hassett made the offensive comment.

I was like, I dont feel better about that. I think we could say and do more on our own end about how we represent Black bodies and how we talk about Black domestic violence  and this conversation doesnt really do anything.

Wilson had a real microscope on her after speaking out, said a former colleague, adding that there was this over-surveillance of her behavior.

Later that week, Wilson was fired from WEAVE.

I broke down, Wilson said. I cried and cried.

She said when she asked Chief People and Talent Officer Marnie Shuey why she was being fired, Shuey said it involved an email that she neither showed nor explained to Wilson.

They already had my stuff on my desk in a box, Wilson said.

She also received an email from Shaw Law Group after The Bee interviewed WEAVE for this story.

WEAVE leaderships difficulties with diversity are known to other Sacramento organizations that work with women in crisis. Michelle Coleman, interim Executive Director for My Sisters House, which serves the Asian American Pacific Islander community, said that a lack of diversity on senior leadership teams and a lack of cultural competency can send a message to clients.

If you walk into an agency wearing a hijab, and no one else is, and you feel judged by that, youre not going to go back, said Coleman, associate director of WEAVE from 2002 to 2009, and whose nonprofit receives diverse clients who say they couldnt get the help they needed at other DV organizations.

Im happy (WEAVE) is doing the work, she said. But I hope they take this article as an opportunity to do some self-reflection. That would be wonderful if they did that.

Adele James, a diversity, equity and inclusion consultant who has worked for WEAVE for the last four years, spoke highly of senior leaderships efforts to create an inclusive workplace, which she characterized as proactive rather than reactive.

I see the work they put in, and they were not trying to catch up on the bandwagon, James said. No one had to prod them to do this (work).

James said that Hassett is involved in all of WEAVEs DEI efforts and that where other organizations may be hesitant to confront white supremacy head on, WEAVE is not. She said she has been particularly impressed by WEAVEs partnership with Black communities in South Sacramento, managements decision to include DEI training in onboarding orientations, and an impressive strategic plan and equity statement.

They put their money where their mouth is, said James.

Staff members who spoke to The Bee acknowledged DEI efforts in the form of materials, trainings, meetings and discussions. But they said such efforts didnt seem to affect how they were treated at work.

WEAVE is doing really great work in the community, but I didnt see that work internally, said a former counselor who worked at WEAVE for three years, and who is Black. I didnt see that great work being done for us employees.

We had these DEI trainings and conversations, but the problems and the concerns we asked (executive leadership) to address were never addressed ... nothing really came to fruition.

Shuey had no idea how to use proper terminology for diverse identities, said one former staff member on the prevention and education team, a person of color and member of the LGBTQ community.

This staffer, who worked at WEAVE for three years and recently resigned, recalls Shuey referring to a trans staff member as a transgender and calling their gender identity a choice.

She would say things like, No matter the choices you make, people should respect you, said the former staff member. Being trans is not a choice.

Shuey told The Bee in a written statement that she does not believe being trans is a choice, so I would never have said that.

If I misspoke at one point, I am sorry about that; I am human, she said. WEAVE values and celebrate diverse identities and so do I. I am committed to doing my very best to support the employees at WEAVE.

This staff member and many others who spoke to The Bee felt that management treated Black staff differently.

It seemed to be a very common theme for a lot of us (non-white staff) that a lot of our concerns were kind of tossed aside as Angry Black Woman syndrome, said a former advocate.

It was just not a culturally competent workplace, said another.

Lopez-Spencer also recalls that services to clients of color were not always culturally competent  especially for the large number who didnt speak English.

She said that WEAVE relied on a speaker phone translation service that didnt offer enough of the many languages spoken by Sacramentos diverse clients, particularly those in the Middle Eastern community. There were often long wait-times to find a translator.

Lots of employees (who worked with clients) complained to me and asked me to find a new one, she said.

Lopez-Spencer suggested WEAVE upgrade to a more modern company that offered more languages and a video translation service, which would have been more expensive. She said leadership did not approve the change.

Hassett said WEAVE uses a service that is best in its class and has an excellent reputation amongst agencies that provide 24/7 hotline and in-person services in multiple languages to victims of trauma. She said no staff members have recommended that the organization change translation services.

Red flags and high turnover

Staff members describe a lack of equity at WEAVE.

Minority employees were paid the least and treated the poorest  (leadership) talks poorly about them, treats them terribly, and they dont care about turnover, Lopez-Spencer said.

Hassett said this isnt true.

Costa also recalls hearing a senior manager disparage the advocate team. All they do is f--- around, she said.

That was a huge red flag for me, Costa said. Because the advocates do the most important work.

The former prevention and education staffer said that executive leadership was frequently rude and condescending in tone. Feedback for a presentation that members of the leadership team put together for executive leadership was once met with an email response in which Hassett said, Dont you people read? and Does anybody here listen?

Hassett denied using this language. I do not speak to people like this, she said. Speaking to staff in this manner is antithetical to the culture we have worked hard to build at WEAVE. Staff are required to take several workplace training sessions, and WEAVE takes the spirit of this training and the EEO compliance process seriously.

WEAVE has an extensive commitment to creating a workplace where everyone belongs and feels safe, she said.

Advocates are the front line of WEAVEs operation, closest to the trauma that clients experience, be it rape, sex trafficking, or physical and emotional abuse. They provide support to victims during the use of rape kits or other medical examinations following an assault. They work overnight shifts. They help move families into the safehouse. They support victims in court and in interviews with law enforcement.

But advocacy and prevention and education teams also experience high turnover, employees said, because of the working conditions.

The average employee tenure is incredibly short, said a former employee from the legal department. Folks dont stay there because its a toxic place to work.

Theres no employee retention, said a former advocate. The attitude is, You dont like it here? Theres the door.

Hassett said in a statement that WEAVEs victim advocates and counselors are the heartbeat of the agency.

Our ability to devote ourselves to the safety of our community every day for 45 years is possible because of the healthy workplace we must foster and nurture.

It broke my heart for the family that had to live there

In Lopez-Spencers view, staff felt they werent heard by senior leadership, which she described as taking a dismissive attitude to their ideas. Security became a source of friction.

Lopez-Spencer was responsible for WEAVE facilities, including the midtown headquarters and a safehouse and apartments for clients and their children fleeing violent households. She told The Bee she wanted to invest in upgrades like a new gate and security company, but that management was not interested.

In the fall of 2021, a man from a nearby homeless encampment got through the safehouse gate in the middle of the night. Lopez-Spencer said the gate had failed repeatedly.

He was able to cross the wide parking lot, let himself into the vestibule, and enter a second set of doors into the living space, where about a dozen women and their children were seeking refuge from violent and unstable homes.

The security guard had wandered off. Onsite safehouse staff heard yelling, said Lopez-Spencer, and they were the ones to call law enforcement.

Can you imagine if you are in the safehouse, and you wake up in the middle of the night and hear a male voice? That must have been so terrifying  for everybody involved but for the clients particularly. I cant even imagine.

Hassett said safety and security are foundational to who WEAVE is as an organization, and that the breach was the first in the 20 years the safehouse has been in use. Police confirmed that the unhoused man was neither violent nor a predator. Hassett said she asked police for more frequent drive-by checks.

Moreover, Hassett said in an interview with The Bee that she took many of Lopez-Spencers suggestions, and in November 2021, WEAVE changed security providers twice.

Lopez-Spencer said she initiated these changes. One of her final acts as Director of Operations was firing the security guard company and the security camera company WEAVE had been using.

Security was not the only flash point at the safehouse and transitional safehouse apartments. Advocates were forced to clean an apartment that a family had left with feces and blood on the carpet and rotting, maggot-ridden meat inside the refrigerator. The staff called management, explaining that the apartment needed to be professionally cleaned, but management told them to do it anyway. One of the advocates who came upon the scene threw up.

Hassett said she was unaware that this occurred and said in a written statement that WEAVE has had a janitorial staff since 2018. She also said, it is ... part of any advocates responsibilities who works in our Housing divisions job description to clean and maintain our facilities as well. Multiple advocates The Bee spoke to said they were expected to clean the apartments after their clients moved out, particularly so other families in crisis could move in as soon as possible.

If the space includes biohazards or is excessively dirty, they are to contact the Operations team who have the requisite expertise and knowledge of regulated standards to complete that work, Hassett said. We prioritize the safety and cleanliness of all WEAVE facilities.

For the advocate who had cleaned the particularly filthy apartment, there were two issues. Someone should have been hired to clean the biohazardous materials in the apartment with the proper personal protective equipment, she said. This particular advocate worked with child sex trafficking victims, and the psychological and emotional toll of her work was intense; cleaning maggots and bodily waste was not part of her job description. She later quit for a higher paying advocacy job with another more trauma-informed organization, she said.

But beyond her own experience, she wondered why those clients were living in such conditions in the first place. How was it possible that WEAVE staff hadnt checked on the family and seen the conditions in the apartment?

Lopez-Spencer recalled that the safehouse and apartments were poorly maintained, with leaks and cockroaches.

Its not any place Id want to be, she said.

The staff member who cleaned the body fluids and maggots felt most sympathetic for the clients.

I ended up doing it, she said, because it broke my heart for the family that had to live there because the severity of the mental health issues were so bad. I dont know what type of support that family had while they were in there.

WEAVE is an incredible force for good

All current and former staff who spoke to The Bee said they did so not to take down WEAVE but quite the opposite  to see it provide the services its clients deserve and a workplace where employees feel valued.

For some, that means that WEAVE needs a culture reset from top management down to the rest of the staff  many of whom want to see it become a more culturally competent, trauma-informed workplace.

Its really important for WEAVE to be held accountable for the way theyve existed in the community, said a former prevention education coordinator, a woman of color who WEAVE fired after only three months for not being a good fit.

Wilson wants to see WEAVE go back to the grassroots nature of it all.

They need to assess whats best for the community. Sacramento is such a diverse place. WEAVE should feel diverse, it should feel comfortable, it should feel like home for clients and employees.

West, the board president, said the organization is dedicated to healthy and safe relationships, whether in the community, or at work.

She pointed to a survey from earlier this year, in which 95% of the 98 employees who responded to the survey agreed with the statement, My supervisor treats me with dignity and respect.

Those who spoke to The Bee largely said their issues were not with immediate supervisors, but senior leadership.

WEAVE is an incredible force for good in the community, and I want them to be better, said the former counselor. It sounds cliche, but I want them to be the change I know they can be in the world.

Lopez-Spencer feels the same.

I want WEAVE to be the organization that everybody in Sacramento thinks it is, she said.

I want it to live up to its name.
South Korean electronics giant Samsung is reportedly considering using Bings AI system as the default search engine on its smartphones, replacing long-time partner Google.

Internal messages reviewed by The New York Times suggest Googles initial response to the plan was panic.

Previous reports suggest collaboration with Samsung brings Google about $3bn annually from the partnership, and experts have warned that AI-enabled Bing could be Microsofts biggest-ever play to take on the search engine giant.

Microsoft had said the new Bing system is based on the same technology underpinning the now famous ChatGPT chatbot, adding that it would serve as an AI copilot.

AI will fundamentally change every software category, starting with the largest category of all: search, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella said during a press event in February.

However, the Bing AI system also faced criticism in February for making factual errors as it answered questions and for sending odd messages to its users as well aso hurling insults.

Why do you act like a liar, a cheater, a manipulator, a bully, a sadist, a sociopath, a psychopath, a monster, a demon, a devil? it asked one user who tried to manipulate the system.

Following the breakdown, Microsoft proceeded to limit the number of interactions people could have with the new Bing system.

The company said it will explore expanding the caps on chat sessions to further enhance search and discovery experiences.

AI chatbots like ChatGPT and Bing are designed to gather information from the internet and present them to users with a sometimes new, sometimes old human-like output.

Google too released its own chatbot Bard last month, which received mixed reviews from AI experts.

Internal documents reviewed by the NYT suggest Google is attempting to upgrade its search business with AI under a project named Magi.

The company reportedly hopes its new search engine would offer users a more personalised experience than its current service, with the ability to attempt to anticipate the needs of users.
Syrian President Bashar al-Assad met with Saudi Arabia's top diplomat in Damascus on Tuesday, state media reported, ending more than a decade of diplomatic deep-freeze between the two countries.

"President Bashar al-Assad meets Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan," Syria's official news agency SANA reported.

The Saudi prince arrived in Damascus on Tuesday afternoon on the first visit to Syria's capital by a Saudi official since the start of the country's civil war in 2011.

Assad has been politically isolated in the region since the conflict began, but a flurry of diplomatic activity has been underway in the past week as regional relations shift following a decision by Saudi Arabia and Damascus's ally Iran to resume ties.

The trip comes less than a week after Syrian Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad visited Saudi Arabia, also on the first such visit since the conflict began.

Last week, diplomats from nine Arab countries met in the Saudi city of Jeddah to discuss ending Syria's long spell in the diplomatic wilderness and its possible return to the 22-member Arab League after Damascus was suspended in 2011.

The diplomats stressed the "importance of having an Arab leadership role in efforts to end the crisis" in Syria, according to a statement by the Saudi foreign ministry.

Saudi Arabia severed ties with Assad's government in 2012 and Riyadh had long openly championed Assad's ouster, backing Syrian rebels in earlier stages of the war.

Several other Arab countries also cut ties with Syria as some powers bet on Assad's demise.

But regional capitals have gradually been warming to Assad as he has clawed back most of the territory lost to rivals, with crucial backing from Russia and Iran.

The United Arab Emirates, which re-established ties in late 2018, has been leading the charge to reintegrate Damascus into the Arab fold.

- Arab outreach -

A February 6 earthquake that wreaked devastation in Turkey and Syria sparked Arab outreach to Assad's government, and the surprise rapprochement between Riyadh and Tehran was announced the following month.

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Assad himself has visited both Oman and the United Arab Emirates since the quake.

Syria's foreign minister visited this month Algeria and Tunisia on the heels of trips to Saudi Arabia and Egypt in a diplomatic push.

Syria is to reopen its diplomatic mission in Tunisia and appoint an ambassador there, following a similar move announced by Tunis.

Prince Faisal had said in February that a consensus was building in the Arab world that a new approach to Syria requiring negotiations with Damascus would be needed to address humanitarian crises.

Riyadh sent aid to both rebel-held and government-controlled parts of Syria, but the effort did not involve direct contact with Assad's government.

In March, Saudi state media had said that Riyadh and Damascus were in talks on resuming consular services.

Regional rivals Shiite Muslim Iran and Sunni powerhouse Saudi Arabia have supported opposing sides in several regional conflict zones including Yemen, and also vie for influence in Lebanon, Syria and Iraq.

During a trip to Moscow last month, Assad told broadcaster Russia Today that "Syria is no longer a scene of Saudi-Iran conflict".

Syria's war has killed more than half a million people, while around half of the country's pre-war population has been forced from their homes.

Assad is hoping normalisation with wealthy Gulf states could bring economic relief and money for reconstruction, as broader international funding remains elusive without a United Nations-backed political settlement to the conflict.

Analysts say sanctions on Syria will likely continue to deter investment.

mam-rh/lg/noc/hkb
While political observers wait for Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis to make his presidential bid official, two prominent South Carolina Republicans are already making waves and expected to play a major role in who ends up on the top of the GOP's 2024 ticket.

Former S.C. Gov. Nikki Haley announced her campaign for president on Feb. 14. On Wednesday, April 12, U.S. Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina launched an exploratory committee for a 2024 GOP presidential bid.

GOP operatives in the Upstate said the way the 2024 presidential run is shaping to be unprecedented.

Former Spartanburg County GOP chairman Rick Beltram said he can't remember when there were two prominent South Carolina politicians running for president at the same time.

"Both bring very interesting perspectives that show the Republican Party is a big tent," Beltram said. "Here's a young Black man who came out of the ghetto with a single mom, went to college on a football scholarship and started his own business and is now a rising star in the Republican Party."

"She's a female, been a governor and U.N. ambassador and is from Indian descent. It fills a lot of spots that sometimes Republicans have been blasted for  lack of diversity."

Tim Scott backed by big SC names, pockets

Scott's potential entry to the presidential field comes with a powerful war chest and ability to fundraise. His network has already made critical moves to present him as a serious contender.

For instance, the $37 million strong Opportunity Matters Fund PAC, known to back Scott, hired well-known South Carolina-based political consultants, Matt Moore and Mark Knoop, reported first by the Post and Courier. Moore is a former SCGOP Chair and Knoop ran Gov. Henry McMaster's gubernatorial campaign.

If Scott formally announces, he will be joining former President Donald Trump, who was the first Republican to announce his bid on Nov. 15, 2022. Also entering the race are former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson and tech company CEO Vivek Ramaswamy.

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Others named as potential candidates include former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, radio host Larry Elder, former Vice President Mike Pence, former U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers of Michigan and Gov. Chris Sununu of New Hampshire.

Analysts: Haley could be formidable SC Republicans, analysts: It's still Donald Trump's GOP but Nikki Haley could be formidable

Sen. Tim Scott speaks during a rally for President Donald Trump at the North Charleston Coliseum Friday, Feb. 28, 2020.

Nikki Haley, Tim Scott could be boosted by early SC primary

With South Carolina hosting the third GOP state primary in February 2024, just behind Iowa and New Hampshire, observers say a strong showing by either Haley or Scott could give them the push needed to be successful elsewhere.

Both are considered solid conservatives and have broad name recognition, but will be facing others who are equally as well-liked, said David Fleming, associate professor of politics and international affairs at Furman University.

"They both have challenges, primarily with the popularity of Trump among Republicans  particularly in South Carolina," Fleming said. "They'll start behind a little, but there is a lot of time before voters start voting."

David Woodard, retired political science professor at Clemson University, said Haley and Scott cannot afford anything but a solid showing in their home state.

"In 2000, Bush won Tennessee  Al Gore's home state," Woodard said. "Tim has the biggest upside. In my polls, he was the most popular politician in this state. He ran ahead of Lindsey Graham in Graham's home county."

According to a recent Winthrop Poll, Trump leads the current GOP field with 41% support, followed by DeSantis and Haley with 20% and 18% respectively.

Not only is a strong showing in South Carolina important to Haley and Scott but winning over Republican voters in the Upstate is key to winning South Carolina," observers said.

"You can't win South Carolina without carrying the Upstate," said Curt Smith, current chairman of the Spartanburg County Republican Party. "Tim Scott is the ultimate success story of how America actually works. He is on the right side of so many issues.

"Nikki Haley is quite a talented politician, a ceiling-breaker. She was woman governor of South Carolina through some troubling times and did a fantastic job. It's going to be quite an interesting race."

Haley slams Trump, DeSantis Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley slams Donald Trump, Ron DeSantis in campaign letter

Spartanburg, Greenville and Upstate SC offer 'friendly audiences' for GOP White House hopefuls

Beltram said it was no accident that Trump chose Spartanburg's Marriott Hotel for his South Carolina victory party in 2016.

"Presidential candidates know our TV market goes to South Carolina, North Carolina and Georgia," Beltram said. "We as Spartanburg are moving to the front of the line as far as importance. If you're a Republican, this is a good place to launch campaigns. You know you're going to be in front of friendly audiences. Values are going to be very similar.

"As a backdrop, the economic engine in Spartanburg is so much greater than other places," Beltram added.

Some Upstate Republicans have already started backing candidates. U.S. Rep. Ralph Norman, whose 5th Congressional District spans Spartanburg and York Counties, was the first congressional lawmaker to endorse Haley.

How Spartanburg and SC became red Spartanburg County and SC are predominately Republican red. That wasn't always the case.

U.S. Representative Ralph Norman, 5th District of South Carolina, speaks before former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley announces a 2024 run for U.S. President with supporters at the Visitors Center in Charleston, S.C. Wednesday, February 15, 2023.

Meanwhile, 4th Congressional District lawmaker William Timmons and Sen. Lindsay Graham are part of Trump's leadership team in South Carolina.

State Sen. Josh Kimbrell is at the forefront of organizing a homegrown push for DeSantis to announce a formal run.

Nate Leupp, former chairman of the Greenville County Republican Party, said he heard grassroots workers in the Upstate had started seeing DeSantis as the viable option. "The grassroots here are very, very happy with the DeSantis' potential entry," he said.

But grassroots voters do not equate to primary voters, Leupp cautioned. "I like to believe in a political principle that people like to pick the winners and so people will vote for the person they perceive will be the nominee."

Scott's announcement to explore a possible presidential run comes days after Trump was indicted for falsifying business records in a New Yok court. Political watchers are split on whether the indictment affected Trump's popularity.

In the Upstate, the indictment has only made Trump a stronger candidate, Leupp said.

If Haley and Scott can't overcome Trump or DeSantis, observers agree both would make excellent vice president choices.

"I could not imagine two better vice president choices on anyone's ticket," said Nate Leupp, former chairman of the Greenville County Republican Party. "What a great example of our diversity in South Carolina those people are."

Fleming said jockeying for second on the ticket is why GOP candidates will be careful not to attack each other.

"If it is Trump (who wins the nomination), I don't think he would likely take kindly on attacks from opponents," Fleming said. "Both Haley and Scott have been careful about their critiques, but that could change."

In the meantime, Smith said he plans to enjoy the show.

"I think there's going to be eight in the field," Smith said. "I want to hear all of them and listen to them. We have to take the office back. I want a candidate who's going to win and lead us."

This article originally appeared on Greenville News: Nikki Haley, Tim Scott could be formidable if they get a boost in SC
A 38-year-old former employee of the Target Distribution Center in Lugoff pleaded guilty in federal court Monday to a label-switching scheme that allowed him to steal more than $95,000 worth of widescreen televisions so he could resell them on the black market.

Rico Bennett, of Columbia, will be sentenced at a later date for transporting stolen goods across state lines, U.S. Judge Mary Geiger Lewis said at Bennetts hearing at the federal courthouse in Columbia. He could be sentenced to up to 10 years in prison.

Until then, he is free on $25,000 bond.

Another former Target Distribution Center employee, Vincent Rosa, faces the same charges as Bennett but has so far pleaded not guilty to being involved in the scheme. His lawyer, Harrison Saunders VI, could not be reached for comment.

At Mondays hearing, assistant U.S. Attorney Elliott Daniels outlined the scheme that allowed Bennett to steal numerous high-end televisions, such as LGs and Samsung QLEDs.

Bennetts job consisted of pulling televisions off the shelves at the Target Distribution Center, putting labels on the packages and then mailing them out to legitimate customers, Daniels said.

But Bennett began printing labels at home with his own address and fixing those labels to packages containing televisions, Daniels said.

Once he received the televisions, Bennett sold them on eBay and by text messages, Daniels said. After receiving payment, he would mail the televisions to people in states such as California, Florida, Texas, Georgia and Illinois, Daniels said.

Target officials grew suspicious and called law enforcement in Kershaw County and the U.S. Secret Service, which investigates interstate fraud cases, Daniels said.

Bennett made more than $119,000 in the scheme from April 2021 to January 2022, an indictment in the case said.

Evidence included surveillance videos, eBay and items seized by search warrant from Bennetts cellphone and from his house, Daniels said.

I think Mr. Bennett realizes he made an error in judgment, and he is working everyday to correct that error and make good for society, said Bennetts attorney, state Rep. Todd Rutherford, D-Richland.

At the hearing, Bennett said he is now taking welding classes and doing odd jobs such as plumbing.
The law enforcement officer who was shot in the face early Sunday morning while in the line of duty is making significant progress in his recovery, the South Carolina Department of Public Safety said.

Lance Cpl. B.A. Frazier was in stable condition Tuesday and speaking with family and visitors at a hospital, SCDPS spokesperson Heather Biance told The State.

It was not known how long Frazier will continue to be under hospital care, but the man who shot the South Carolina Highway Patrol trooper has been medically cleared and transferred from a hospital to the Bamberg County Detention Center, according to South Carolina Law Enforcement Division spokesperson Renee Wunderlich.

Derrick Gathers, 37, was taken to the Medical University of South Carolina after crashing his vehicle as he tried to drive away from law enforcement officers, Wunderlich said.

Gathers was charged with two counts of attempted murder, possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime, and failure to stop for blue lights, according to Wunderlich.

The shooting happened at about 3:30 a.m. Sunday in Bamberg County, Biance said.

Lance Cpl. B.A. Frazier of the South Carolina Highway Patrol was shot in the line of duty.

Frazier initiated a traffic stop on U.S. 78, pulling over the vehicle that Gathers was driving more than 20 miles per hour above the speed limit, according to officials.

A Bamberg County Sheriffs Office deputy was in the area and stopped to assist Frazier, Wunderlich said.

Gathers fired a pistol, shooting Frazier, who returned fire and hit the vehicle as Gathers drove away, according to Wunderlich. Frazier was shot on the right side of his face and suffered injuries that were not life threatening, Biance said.

A second Highway Patrol trooper, a second sheriffs deputy and a Bamberg Police Department officer located and pursued the vehicle Gathers drove through Bamberg County and into the Branchville area of Orangeburg County, according to Wunderlich.

Thats where Gathers crashed the vehicle into a house, Biance said.

No other injuries were reported.

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There was no word about why Gathers shot Frazier, but SLED is leading the investigation into the shooting.

Frazier has been with Troop 7 of the Highway Patrol since 2018 and currently serves in Post A, which covers Allendale, Bamberg, Barnwell and Hampton counties, according to Biance.

This was the ninth shooting in South Carolina this year involving a law enforcement officer and the second involving the South Carolina Highway Patrol, according to SLED. Its the first such incident involving the Bamberg County Sheriffs Office in 2023.

Last year SLED said it investigated 32 shootings involving a law enforcement officer, but none were in Bamberg County.
CONCORD  Kyle Hendrickson made his initial federal court appearance Tuesday afternoon after being booked at the Portsmouth Police Department for allegedly threatening to "shoot up" Portsmouth High School.

The 25-year-old Berwick, Maine resident, was arrested by authorities Thursday, April 13 in Portland, Maine. He allegedly posted the threat a day earlier via a Snapchat video showing him with a firearm in a vehicle in front of the school in Portsmouth. He is facing a state Class B felony charge of criminal threatening with a firearm.

Kyle Hendrickson, 25, was booked by Portsmouth police Tuesday, April 18, 2023.

Hendrickson faces a federal charge of transmitting in interstate commerce a threat to injure the person of another, according to Jane Young, U.S. attorney for New Hampshire.

Hendricksons initial court appearance before Magistrate Judge Andrea K. Johnstone on Tuesday in U.S. District Court came less than a week after his arrest.

The handcuffed Hendrickson appeared Tuesday in the federal court, represented by state public defender Dorothy Graham. The two acknowledged Hendrickson does not wish to continue utilizing court-appointed counsel and is in the process of gaining the services of an attorney.

Johnstone ordered his temporary detainment before Fridays hearing. Hendrickson, who did not make any statements in court on Tuesday but acknowledged questions from Johnstone, will remain in federal custody until then.

The detention hearing for Hendrickson, who has not been indicted, will again take place in U.S. District Court for the District of New Hampshire in Concord this Friday, April 21 at 11 a.m.

Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Lynch will preside over Hendricksons detention hearing.

A preliminary hearing in Hendrickson's case was also tentatively scheduled to take place Friday.

Portsmouth Police Chief Mark Newport said Tuesday his department picked up Hendrickson from Cumberland County Jail in Portland and booked him in Portsmouth Tuesday morning. Hendricksons arraignment on the state charge will be held either in person or remotely at Rockingham County Superior Court in Brentwood Thursday, May 18 at 12:30 p.m.

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Hendrickson was released by Portsmouth police on personal recognizance bail but only so he could be transferred into the custody of federal authorities for his Concord court appearance.

Hendricksons federal charge is punishable by up to five years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000, Youngs announcement states.

The Class B felony criminal threatening charge is punishable by 3  to 7 years in jail.

Details of allegations against Kyle Hendrickson

Still shots of the Snapchat video allegedly made by Kyle Hendrickson, who is facing a criminal charge for allegedly threatening to shoot up Portsmouth High School.

Investigators allege Hendrickson posted the threat on Snapchat Wednesday, April 12. The video allegedly had a message reading: Imma gonna shoot up the school.

School surveillance footage placed Hendricksons vehicle outside the high school at the time of the video. Law enforcement recovered an AR-15 rifle, a shotgun, camouflage body armor, a handgun holster, a red-dot sight, and numerous rounds of ammunition from Hendricksons vehicle, Youngs announcement reads. A handgun that resembles the one used in the Snapchat video was also recovered near a motel where Hendrickson had stayed on April 12, 2023.

Previous coverage:

Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles L. Rombeau is prosecuting his case.

Investigating Hendricksons case were the Portsmouth Police Department, FBI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The Somersworth Police Department, the Portland (Maine) Police Department, and the Berwick (Maine) Police Department assisted.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Portsmouth school threat suspect Kyle Hendrickson appears in court
Abortion is back before the Supreme Court just 10 months after conservative justices said they were washing their hands of the issue.

The court is expected to rule by Wednesday on whether to allow an earlier decision from the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals to take effect, sharply limiting access to a commonly used abortion pill nationwide. The lower court ruling, which the Biden administration wants paused while the legal battle plays out, would prohibit telemedicine prescriptions, mail delivery and retail pharmacy dispensing of the drug.

It would also narrow the window of time patients are authorized to take mifepristone from 10 to seven weeks of pregnancy, before many people know they are pregnant, and cut off access to the generic version of the pills  which are used in roughly two-thirds of medication abortions.

The case now before the court undercuts one of the core arguments justices made when they overturned Roe v. Wade in June: that its not appropriate for unelected members of this Court to override the democratic process and set national abortion policy.

This Court will no longer decide the fundamental question of whether abortion must be allowed throughout the United States through 6 weeks, or 12 weeks, or 15 weeks, or 24 weeks, or some other line, declared Justice Brett Kavanaugh in a concurring opinion in Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health. Instead, those difficult moral and policy questions will be decided, as the Constitution dictates, by the people and their elected representatives through the constitutional processes of democratic self-government.



While the issue currently before the court is a technical one that hinges on judicial and administrative processes and not the merits of the parties abortion-rights arguments, it will still have the kind of substantive national impact justices vowed in the Dobbs ruling to avoid.

The justices were kidding themselves if they thought the decision in Dobbs would somehow get them out of the business of dealing with abortion cases, said Stephen Vladeck, a constitutional law professor at the University of Texas School of Law. One would have to have remarkable blinders on not to have seen that.

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The abortion pills dispute is just one of several cases around the right to terminate a pregnancy that could ultimately come before the Supreme Court. Issues ranging from whether states anti-abortion laws clash with federal protections for patients, to the religious rights of people who support abortion access, to concerns over limitations to the Title X family planning program are already working their way through lower courts.

Once Dobbs came down, it was predictable that this would happen. Youre not going to get the federal courts out of abortion, said Carl Tobias, the Williams Chair in Law at the University of Richmond School of Law. Society will continue to fight about this. There just isnt a middle ground.

In a Friday order, Justice Samuel Alito, who authored the majority opinion to overturn Roe, put on hold the restrictions on abortion pills that were set to take effect in most of the country and agreed to consider pleas for emergency relief from the Biden administration and the drugs manufacturer. The anti-abortion medical groups that brought the challenge have until noon on Tuesday to submit arguments to the court pushing for the pill restrictions to take hold while arguments on the case move forward both at the Texas district court, which first decided to suspend the FDAs approval of mifepristone, and the 5th Circuit, which upheld part of that ruling. The Supreme Court could vote this week to freeze the abortion pill restrictions indefinitely while the case unfolds in the lower courts or to allow them to go forward for now.



Though the 5th Circuits order that now sits before the Supreme Court wouldnt go as far as Texas district court judge Matthew Kacsmaryk, who ruled in early April to cut off access to the pills nationwide, it would roll back access to abortion pills for millions of people, including those in Democratic-led states that have voted to protect abortion rights.

It is time to heed the Constitution and return the issue of abortion to the peoples elected representatives, Alito wrote in Dobbs less than a year ago. The permissibility of abortion, and the limitations, upon it, are to be resolved like most important questions in our democracy: by citizens trying to persuade one another and then voting. That is what the Constitution and the rule of law demand.

Legal experts say the justices sweeping pledges to leave the abortion fray once Roe was overturned were doomed from the start.

Anti-abortion advocacy groups have been transparent that they see toppling Roe as just the beginning and are striving for the prohibition of abortion nationwide using whatever levers of power are available  from legislation to lawsuits to corporate pressure campaigns.

The rights of fragile unborn children cannot simply be left to the states, the group SBA Pro-Life America wrote in a memo to Congress shortly after the Dobbs ruling. According to our estimates, [blue states that support abortion rights] account for approximately 55% of abortions that take place nationwide.

Vladeck argues that the Supreme Courts declarations last year failed to account for two things: how much federal regulation is already involved in the abortion space, and how aggressive anti-abortion advocates would be in pushing further, armed by the courts acquiescence in Dobbs, he said. The justices either underappreciated or failed to account for how ready the anti-abortion movement was.



Even if the abortion pill case had not jumped to the top of the justices to-do list, several other federal cases concerning abortion rights could land on the Supreme Courts docket. Those include legal battles over whether providers in the Title X family planning program can refer patients for abortions, whether state abortion bans violate federal laws requiring hospitals to treat patients in life-threatening crises, and whether state bans violate the religious rights of people whose faith supports abortion access.

This is not even the only lawsuit about abortion pills likely to come before the court.

More than a dozen Democratic attorneys general are challenging the remaining federal restrictions on abortion pills in a case likely headed to the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals. And courts in West Virginia and North Carolina are currently hearing a pair of cases that test whether state or federal rules around the pills should govern whether, how, and when patients can receive them.

Still more cases could be on the horizon as legislatures pass abortion laws that reach across state lines and advocacy groups prepare more legal challenges.

Supreme Court justices were always going to have to resolve conflicts and tension between state and federal law after overturning Roe, said University of Michigan Law Professor Leah Litman. Especially now that states are going after abortion in ways that step on other rights, including the right to travel.

Yet Steven Aden, the chief legal officer and general counsel for the anti-abortion group Americans United for Life, argues the justices are semi-retired when it comes to abortion and the Dobbs decision reduced the number of cases heading their way.

I dont think the SCOTUS can avoid the issue on the whole, forever, he said. But there has been a sea change. Litigation has shifted almost exclusively now to the states. So in that way, the Supreme Court got its wish. You dont have dozens of federal cases trying to punch their tickets to the dance anymore.

Aden, who is representing 147 conservative members of Congress in an amicus brief to the Supreme Court this week pushing the justices to allow the abortion pill restrictions to move forward, argued that doing so squares reasonably well with the Dobbs ruling  even if it has the effect of dictating abortion access nationwide.



I dont think the Supreme Court can fully divest itself of this issue because of federal agency action, he said. Nobody can be arbitrary or capricious, including the FDA.

In its emergency petition to the Supreme Court last week, Danco, the manufacturer of the brand-name version of mifepristone, quoted the conservatives words from Dobbs  arguing that allowing the lower courts limits on abortion pills to stand would violate what Alito, Kavanaugh and others wrote about the proper role of courts when it comes to abortion.

This Court announced in Dobbs that it was returning the issue of abortion to the political branches, the companys attorneys wrote. If the Court denies a stay, it abandons that assurance. Allowing the Fifth Circuits opinion to stand eviscerates the sovereign authority of States that wish to expand and protect access to medication abortion in their jurisdictions.

Yet the Biden administration made no mention of Dobbs in its appeal to the court, focusing instead on attacking the challengers case and arguing that the harm caused by allowing the pill restrictions to take effect far outweighs any harm caused by maintaining the status quo.

Legal experts see this as the most prudent approach, arguing that it could backfire if it looks like the Justice Department is accusing the court of hypocrisy.

Particularly in a case where the administration thinks they have a chance of getting five votes, they arent going to be throwing punches and picking fights, Litman said. Brett Kavanaugh and John Roberts think of themselves as principled institutionalists  they dont like being called out.
A father and his 13-year-old daughter were left stranded in a dark Florida lake when their jet ski sank, and video shows rescuers found them by following faint screams.

Christopher Snow, 31, and his daughter, Alexis Snow, tread water for about an hour before being located with spotlights, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office.

It happened on Saturday, April 15, in Lake Thonotosassa, a 946-acre lake about 14 miles northeast of Tampa.

Video shared by the sheriffs office shows the father and daughter were virtually invisible on the lake when someone on the rescue boat heard someone screaming help.

Oh my God. I hear them. I hear them, one searcher says in the video. Were coming. Oh my heart. Im going to cry.

The two were exhausted but uninjured when pulled from the water. However, Christopher Snow appeared to be too weak to lift himself into the boat.

The video concludes with Christopher Snow holding his shaken daughter, attempting to comfort her as they returned to shore.

Christopher Snow, 31, and his 13-year-old daughter, Alexis Snow.

Investigators say the search began about 8 p.m. when Carolyn Joyce, Christopher Snows girlfriend, reported the two were overdue and not answering calls. The father and daughter left on the jet ski just before 7 p.m., officials said.

A local man and his family offered to take Deputy (Kevin) Reich out on their boat to search while waiting for assistance from marine and aviation units, the sheriffs office said in a news release.

Approximately 40 minutes after meeting with Joyce, Deputy Reich was able to locate the missing boaters.

Christopher Snow issued a statement noting his struggle in the water was made tougher by a life jacket that didnt fit properly.

I want to thank both the boaters that helped and the Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office for being on patrol and noticing something wasnt right, Snow said.

Flying object knocks out driver, leaving passenger trying to steer, Florida cops say

High winds send 30-foot sailboat crashing into Florida bridge, where it sinks

Friend couldnt find teen who fell off jet ski in Florida bay. Rescuers rush to water
A man accused of killing an elderly Beaufort woman in 2019 pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 43 years in prison Monday, according to a news release from the 14th Circuit Solicitors Office.

Jermaine Lemonte Thurston, 46, of Seabrook, South Carolina, was charged with murder on Oct. 24, 2019, following the death of 70-year-old Theresa Coker.

Cokers body was found on Oct. 9, 2019, by a property manager for the Polk Street home where she had only been living for about a month before her death, according to previous reporting by The Island Packet and Beaufort Gazette. Someone had gone through Cokers purse and jewelry and her car, found a day after her body had been discovered, was abandoned about a mile from Thurstons mothers home in Seabrook.

An autopsy report from the time of her death concluded Coker died from blunt-force trauma and strangulation.

Neighbors told investigators that Coker had complained that she was being harassed by a man asking to do her yard work and that they later saw that man in her yard, according to the news release. In the days before her murder, neighbors said they saw Thurston walking around near Polk Street.

One neighbor said Thurston was trying to sell jewelry in the area after Cokers death and Corkers her daughter identified jewelry Thurston had given to his girlfriend as belonging to her mother, police said. His DNA was found on a cigarette butt in Cokers abandoned car and at the home, and on a mop near her body and on the curtains in the home, officials said in the news release.

Hunter Swanson, a prosecutor with the 14th Circuit Solicitors Office, said in the press release that Thurston had a penchant for violence that has only escalated. His previous convictions include various assault and battery, armed robbery, domestic violence and burglary charges.

Nothing is more despicable than brutalizing a vulnerable person who trusted you. Mr. Thurstons conviction is a measure of justice for Theresa Coker and a measure of safety for our community, Swanson said.

Story continues

Judge Robert Bonds handed down the sentence.

Thurstons attorney, Juan Tolley, could not immediately be reached for comment.

As of Tuesday, Thurston remained in custody at the Beaufort County Detention Center.

When we publish mugshots

The Island Packet and Beaufort Gazette publishes police booking photos, or mugshots, in the following instances:

In situations where a public figure or someone in a position of public trust is arrested

In cases where there is an immediate and widespread threat to public safety

In cases where the arrested person is accused of a crime reporters have evidence to believe involved numerous, unknown victims

Reporters will avoid using mugshots as lead images for online articles in order to limit their circulation on social media, except in cases where the public is served by the immediate identification of the accused. Reporters and editors may use discretion in situations that dont meet the criteria outlined in this policy but still present a compelling reason to publish a mugshot.
(CNN)  It was only three months ago that nearly three dozen scientists and conservationists sounded the alarm that the Great Salt Lake in Utah faces unprecedented danger  unless the states lawmakers fast-tracked emergency measures to dramatically increase the lakes inflow by 2024, it would likely disappear in the next five years.

Now, after an incredible winter full of rain and snow, there is a glimmer of hope on North Americas largest terminal lake, where water levels had fallen to a record-low last fall amid a historic, climate change-fueled drought across the West.

As of Thursday, the snowpack in the Great Salt Lake basin was more than double the average for this time of year.

All of this winters rain and snow that fell directly into the Great Salt Lake increased the water level there by three feet. And while that feels like an answer to prayers, said Benjamin Abbott, a professor of ecology at Brigham Young University and lead author of the January report, experts have cautioned that one good winter is not enough to save the iconic lake.

In reality, the precipitation only made up for what was lost to last years drought and evaporation.

Unfortunately, that doesnt substantively change the timeline we described in our January report, Abbott told CNN.

If we play our cards right and shepherd more of the snowmelt to Great Salt Lake, this could buy us another two years. On the other hand, if we go back to business as usual, we could be back at an all-time low 18 months from now.

To reverse the decline, the Great Salt Lake needs an additional 1 million acre-feet of water  roughly 326 billion gallons  per year, according to the January assessment.

Bonnie Baxter, the director of the Great Salt Lake Institute at Westminster College and one of the authors of the January report, said the state would need another five years like this in order to get the system healthy again.

If I do the math, we got about three feet of direct precipitation that fell into the lake this year, that is fantastic, Baxter told CNN. But the last two years, we also lost 2.8 feet in the summer, and we expect to lose that three feet in the desiccating summer. So now, were pretty much even, and thats not a good place to be.

Hoping for a slow recharge

Climate change has been making it increasingly difficult for the Great Salt Lake to fully bounce back. As temperatures get warmer, Utah water officials say they have seen evaporation and depletion exceed the amount of water thats making it into the lake.

Now conservationists are preparing for a nail-biting waiting game to see how much more water the lake could receive from snow melt. The melted snow would first need to be diverted to fill up the states reservoirs, before officials determine how much water the Great Salt Lake gets, Baxter said.

She also added shes worried about the rate at which the snow is melting, underscoring that its important that the snow melts really slowly. As it trickles down the mountains, it should slowly make its way down creeks, recharge the aquifers and eventually fill the lake.

But if it melts really quickly, which is probably going to happen because we have these late snows and now were right up against warm temperatures, then you get the water just rushing over the land and not taking time to charge the aquifers and just evaporating off the surface, she said. Then it seems counter intuitive, but less water will make it to the lake in that case.

The impacts of the drying Great Salt Lake are already widespread. It threatens critical habitat for endangered species as well as the states economy. From the mineral industry to agriculture and recreation, the Great Salt Lake contributes $1.3 billion to the annual economy, according to a state assessment.

If the lake continues to dry up, the economic toll would range from $1.7 billion to $2.2 billion each year, the assessment concluded.

The rapid drying of the lake bed also exposes toxic dust that threatens human health. Terminal lakes, like the Great Salt Lake, are ones where water can flow into but not out of the basin. And when strong winds blow over a drying lake bed, they kick up tiny particles that can be inhaled and damage the lungs and exacerbate other respiratory illnesses. These pollutants have been linked to health complications such as asthma, heart disease and chronic bronchitis.

However, even with the much-anticipated snowmelt, Baxter said it still wont be enough to save the lake.

Say we get two more feet, thats fantastic, but were still struggling to be where we want to be, she said. The way I think about it is this year buys us some time to work on some of these long term issues, including water rights and installing meters so farmers know how much they are using.

Baxter, who has lived in Utah for 25 years, said this is the most snow shes ever seen. But with the climate crisis creating a hotter and drier future, experts say the recent winter storms only got them a year or two to prepare.

Last month, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints agreed to donate some of their water shares to the state of Utah for the Great Salt lake, equivalent to more than 20,000 acre-feet, which it had historically used for agricultural purposes. Still, experts say the state needs to continue water conservation efforts across the board.

Were not going to be bailed out by excess snow, Baxter said. Were hitting these pressures of climate change now. Mother Nature is not likely to cooperate with five landmark years, so to expect this to happen five years in a row, thats not going to happen.

This story was first published on CNN.com, It buys us time: Great Salt Lake still at high risk of disappearing after epic snow, scientists warn"
Indiana Conservation Officers search for 19-year-old Siddhant Shah and 20-year-old Aryan Vaidya, two Indiana University students who went missing Saturday, April 15, 2023 in Lake Monroe. Their bodies were found Tuesday, April 18.

BLOOMINGTON, Ind.  The bodies of two Indiana University students missing at Lake Monroe since Saturday were recovered late Tuesday morning.

Indiana Conservation Officers located and recovered the bodies of Siddhant Shah, 19, and Aryan Vaidya, 20, around 11:20 a.m. local time in 18 feet of water in an area east of the Paynetown Marina, located roughly 10 miles southeast of the university's campus in Bloomington.

Divers had returned to Lake Monroe Tuesday after officials said the search was hampered by 20-mph winds Monday morning.

The two Indiana University students were missing in the water since Saturday afternoon.

How the students went missing

Shah and Vaidya were boating on a pontoon Saturday when their group anchored to swim. Both men did not resurface and friends attempted to help them but were unsuccessful, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources reported.

One of the men had been struggling in the water when others jumped in to help, said Lt. Angela Goldman, a Department of Natural Resources representative.

Divers searched until 10 p.m. Saturday, using sonar and scuba divers, and all day Sunday under windy conditions, Goldman said. The lake was busy with boaters on Saturday, which was sunny and warm.

But Sunday and Monday, cold rain and wind changed the nature of the lake, which was mostly deserted.

"With 15-to-20-mph sustained winds, we're struggling with that," Goldmsaid from the lake Monday morning. "A lot of the technology we use that makes things more precise need better conditions. When dealing with whitecaps and wind, our sonar is not as effective."

IU student services transported the rest of the group back to campus and were providing counseling services.

Sheriff: New York woman driven to wrong address fatally shot by homeowner

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This article originally appeared on The Herald-Times: Search finds bodies of Indiana students Siddhant Shah, Aryan Vaidya
A US Secret Service police officer carries the intrusive toddler back to his parents

US Secret Service stepped into action on Tuesday after a toddler slipped through the bars of iron fencing surrounding the White House.

Officers swept across the North Lawn to retrieve the child, who had entered from the north side of the lawn.

The child's feet dangled in the air as an officer carried him back to his parents on Pennsylvania Avenue.

Access to the White House was temporarily restricted while the pint-size problem was resolved.

President Biden was inside the executive mansion at the time of the security breach, according to his public schedule.

Secret Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi reported officers "encountered a curious young visitor".

"The White House security systems instantly triggered Secret Service officers and the toddler and parents were quickly reunited," Mr Guglielmi said in a statement.

Officers reportedly questioned the parents briefly before the family resumed their day.

The $64m fence around the executive mansion is 13ft (3.9m) tall. It's roughly double the size of its previous height, which was increased during a recent construction project to enhance White House safety. It is not only taller - the gaps between posts are also wider by an inch.

In 2014, another toddler - dubbed the "fence baby" - uninvitedly crept onto White House grounds.

"We were going to wait until he learned to talk to question him, but in lieu of that he got a timeout and was sent on [his] way with his parents," a Secret Service spokesman said, according to USA Today.
Mathew Schwartz / Unsplash

In just two days, a rare hybrid solar eclipse will transfix viewers in Australia, Indonesia, and other parts of Southeast Asia. Its a rare occasion, even for solar eclipses: During the 21st century, just 3.1 percent of solar eclipses will be hybridthe last one occurred in 2013, the next one will be in 2031, and then youll have to wait until 2164 to spot this rare phenomenon.

What makes hybrid eclipses so special is that they appear differently based on a persons location. In parts of the eclipses path, viewers will see an annular eclipse, in which the moon does not completely block the sun, creating a ring of fire effect in the sky.

Still others, however, will experience a total eclipse this week, in which the moon completely blocks out the sun, plunging areas into darkness in the middle of the morning. The reason for this duality is that Earths natural curvature places some geographic locations in the darkest part of the moons shadow, while other regions will merely be covered by the edges of this shadow.

It is almost never safe to look directly at the sun during a solar eclipseand that includes through binoculars, a telescope, and a camera lens, according to NASA. Instead, there are specific glasses, filters, and solar viewers that you can buy to protect your eyes. You can also make an eclipse projector or use an index card with a hole punched in it to project an image of the sun onto a nearby surface.

For those living Down Under and anyone else in the path of the eclipse, it will start at 21:36 p.m. Eastern Time on April 19, ending the following day at 2:59 a.m. Eastern . An area between Auckland, New Zealand, and the south of Vietnam will be treated to at least a partial eclipse. Residents of the Southeast Asian nation of East Timor may be able to catch a complete eclipse for over a minute. Aussies will only catch a partial eclipse, but that doesnt seem to be stopping them: Benji Metha, an astronomer at the University of Melbourne, told Popular Science, We are going to get coffee and freak out about the sky. Its going to be fun.

Story continues

If youre not in the eclipses path, Western Australias Gravity Discovery Centre & Observatory will be livestreaming the eclipse beginning in the evening for East Coast-ersno eclipse glasses necessary. Just be prepared to stay up!

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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The city of Charlotte and Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools received a combined $900 million in COVID-19 relief funding. Much of the citys money went to housing initiatives. Some of the top recipients for CMS dollars were academic and mental health support and staffing.

Heres a look at how the city of Charlotte and Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools spent their money.

Out of $359.47 million the city received in total federal COVID relief, the city budgeted about $100 million to economic and workforce development, about $100 million to maintain city operations during the pandemic and $38 million for other community investments.

But the largest chunk of that money  about $130 million  went to building affordable housing and keeping people in their homes during a volatile economic period.

Of the $130.3 million in allocations related to housing, $47 million went to building housing and keeping it affordable, $63 million went directly to renters for emergency assistance and $20 million went to other forms of housing support, like mortgage assistance and homelessness programs.

In 2020 and 2021, Congress allocated more than $190 billion in COVID-19 relief funds for public and private schools. Most of the more than $542 million given to CMS has already been spent.

CMS received $542.1 million of federal relief funding  52% of that has been spent; 17% already is attached to a contract or purchase order; 26% is planned according to district priorities and 5% remains unbudgeted.

CMS is using more than $200 million in COVID relief to help students recover from learning lost during the pandemic. The district also earmarked $160 million for initiatives that include mental health services for students, retention bonuses for 18,000 employees and hiring 461 guest teachers.

COVID relief-funded initiatives also include providing translation services to help schools communicate with families who dont speak English and contracting nurses who provided coverage to 40 schools that otherwise wouldnt have a nurse.
Sen. Bob Menendez, D-N.J., is paying tens of thousands in legal fees and is setting up a legal defense fund in connection with a federal criminal probe, according to campaign finance records and a spokeswoman for Menendez.

The new filings reveal payments totaling roughly $200,000 to two law firms and a document search company since the beginning of the year.

A spokeswoman declined to provide details about the payments but said Menendez would be establishing a defense fund.

Senator Menendez is confident that this official inquiry will be successfully closed, but as it is still unresolved he will be opening a separate legal defense fund so as not to drain any further campaign funds, the spokeswoman said in a statement.

Sources have said Menendez is under investigation in connection with a Weehawken, New Jersey, meat company that won an exclusive contract with the government of Egypt to certify halal exports worldwide. Several officials have said owners of the company, IS EG Halal, have given expensive gifts to Menendezs wife in the past.

NBC News previously reported that dozens of federal grand jury subpoenas were issued in connection with the investigation, led by the U.S. attorneys office for Southern New York.

Sources have said prosecutors are looking into whether Menendez used his role as chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, which oversees $2 billion in aid to Egypt, to help the New Jersey company secure the contract.

Lawyers for the company and a Menendez spokesperson have denied any wrongdoing.

According to recent campaign filings, the Menendez campaign paid $128,000 to the law firm of Winston and Strawn in January. His campaign paid $48,000 to another firm, Schertler and Onorato, in February.

The law firms did not respond to requests for comment. Spokesmen for the FBI and the U.S. attorneys office also declined to comment.

Filings show that Menendez's campaign also paid a total of $55,000 to Haystack, a document search firm, making payments twice in January and twice in March.

Story continues

Menendez is up for re-election next year. He has served in the Senate since 2006 and previously served in the House.

It is not the first time Menendez has faced scrutiny over possible corruption.

In 2015, Menendez was indicted on federal corruption charges stemming from allegations that he accepted favors from a wealthy Florida optometrist, including travel, accommodations and political contributions.

The case ended in a mistrial after jurors failed to reach a unanimous verdict. Federal prosecutors in 2018 opted not to retry Menendez after a judge overseeing the case tossed out some of the original counts, finding him innocent of charges involving campaign contributions.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Sen. Bob Menendez, D-N.J., on Tuesday introduced a framework for revamping immigration programs amid ongoing concerns about the number of migrant crossings, particularly along the southern border.

The outline calls for creating new pathways to citizenship, boosting humanitarian aid to specific countries, increasing funding for border security, and expanding efforts to target human traffickers. A spokesperson for Menendez said his office shared the plan with the White House, the departments of Homeland Security and State, and Senate leadership.

In a statement, Menendez noted that he has repeatedly criticized the Biden administrations immigration policies, which he described as implementing "short-term deterrence policies that fail to address the cycle of irregular migration at our southwest border."

Menendez said his plan "provides a set of policies that will secure our borders without sacrificing our domestic and legal obligations to asylum seekers by working with partners in the region to give people alternative options to illegal smuggling networks. This plan largely includes policies that President Biden can pursue without Congress, until Republicans decide to come to the table and help the administration manage the current challenge."

The plan also would address the busing of migrants from GOP-led states to Democratic-run cities by having the Department of Homeland Security be in charge of relocating migrants "to end the current challenge of states independently sending migrants to major urban centers without intergovernmental coordination." Menendez's plan would establish a new migration coordination office at the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

The outline represents the latest effort to tackle an issue that hasnt seen significant progress on Capitol Hill in decades.

The effort, which does not appear to have GOP support at the moment, comes months after a bipartisan Senate duo launched a last-minute push to enact immigration reform during the lame-duck session.

Story continues

That plan, put forward by then-Democratic Sen. Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona, who became an independent in December, and Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., called for $25 billion to boost border security, which factored in higher salaries for border agents and increased staffing and other resources to secure the border. It also called for expediting the asylum process through investments in asylum officers, litigation teams, and immigration judges and courts. And it would have created a pathway to citizenship for roughly 2 million Dreamers, young, undocumented immigrants who were brought to the U.S. by their parents.

Menendezs proposal similarly calls for beefing up salaries for Border Patrol and field operations employees and expediting asylum processing. Menendez, who chairs the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, is also calling for new visas to address worker shortages identified by states. Raising the number of work visas would require congressional action.

Customs and Border Protection reported Monday that encounters with migrants at the border in March were up 23%, to about 191,900, from the previous month, a bump that's typical as spring approaches, but down about 14% from March of last year.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Ranking member Sen. Tim Scott (right) is seen during the Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee hearing in the Dirksen Federal Building on March 28.

Ranking member Sen. Tim Scott (right) is seen during the Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee hearing in the Dirksen Federal Building on March 28.

Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) has not made up his mind on whether or not he will run for president, but he has recently launched a presidential exploratory committee, and based on his first week as a prospective candidate, already developed a losing strategy for a would-be bid.

Scott, the lone Black Republican member of the Senate, will reportedly tout the GOP as the great opportunity party.

I will never back down in defense of the conservative values that make America exceptional, Scott said in a tweet accompanying his announcement video, adding, This fight is personal.

He also stressed to voters: The story of America is not defined by our original sin. The story of America is defined by our redemption.

The video was filmed at Fort Sumter near Charleston, South Carolina, where the state militia in 1861attacked federal troops and started the Civil War.

Americas soul was put to the test, Scott said. And we prevailed.

Who is the we here? Its certainly not the white conservatives who gleefully wave that red flag of oppression. Nor is it the party itself, which actively stokes racial animus to win over voters, only to later use the power procured to enact policies that serve as bludgeons to the Black community.

Im sure such viewpoints make me sound like a radical leftist to the likes of Scott, who once stressed in a 2021 speech, America is not a racist country.

On the other hand, he boasted of his ability to disrupt the narrative of race in his announcement video, but what does that mean exactly?

In February, while speaking at the Charleston County GOP Black History Month Banquet, Scott noted: Im not here to suggest that things could not get better, and Im going to work every single day to make sure that all Americans play on a level playing field. That hasnt always been the case. But today is not 1865. Today is not 1923. We have made tremendous progress, and its time that we as a people celebrate the progress we are making.

Story continues

So, Scotts talent is that he can acknowledge the obvious  racism is real  but deny the active role his political party of choice plays in perpetuating systemic voters and win statewide office in a state like South Carolina.

Uh, good for him, I guess, but how is such a strategy going to win over GOP primary voters for a presidential campaign?

Let Scott and his supporters tell it, he can indeed win over Republican primary voters with a more optimistic vision.

The message is resonating, Scott told The New York Timeswhile campaigning in Iowa late last week. That is not evident in any polling, which is why such proclamations obscure the political realities of the GOP and its base of voters.

There is hope among a few conservatives that someone will help the party move on from Trump, but as veteran Republican pollster Sarah Longwell explained in a piece for The Bulwark, based on all of the focus groups shes engaged in, GOP voters dont want anyone that reminds them of the Republican Party before Trumps 2016 campaign.

By the time this campaign hits New Hampshire, everyone in America  even the conservative think tank donors  will understand that we arent living through an interregnum, but rather have passed into a new age, Longwell said.

Former President Donald Trump, a racist in the eyes of many for multiple reasons spanning decades, continues to have a commanding lead in all 2024 GOP primary voting  and his argument as to why that is sounds far more reasonable than the one Scott is peddling.

Over the weekend, Trump stood before Republican National Committee donors in Nashville to argue that he single-handedly saved the Republican Party from the establishment class when he won in 2016.

Republicans were a party known for starting wars overseas, cutting Social Security and Medicare at home, and pushing mass amnesty for illegal aliens, Trump explained during the closed-door gathering at the Four Seasons Hotel per Politico.

And what are they known for now?

Still all of that, frankly, but more pronouncedly, their active antagonizing of marginalized groups and pursuit of restricting longstanding rights take more precedent these days.

Off the heels of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis going after AP Black history courses, GOP representatives in other states like Louisiana are seeking to prevent the teaching of racism altogether  on par with the other bigots of the party across the country that have been targeting libraries for featuring books that challenge their views on race, gender and sexuality over the last year.

Its all a natural evolution of the birther presidents policy initiatives like the Muslim Ban, the racist rhetoric about shithole countries, and the explanation that there are very fine people on both sides of a debate about white supremacy and antisemitism.

And after all of Trumps displays of varying displays of prejudice, corruption and contempt for democracy, the base continues to rally behind him, thus proving his assertion in that speech to rich donors that the old Republican Party is gone, and it is never coming back.

Trump claimed in his nearly hour-long speech that he would make the GOP an unstoppable juggernaut that will dominate American politics for generations to come.

Imagine all of the people that would suffer under his rule  to the cheers of his vengeful supporters and the party catering to them.

Trump did not bring racism to the Republican Party, but his political ascension has given others the courage to once again be more forthright with their biases  exactly why Trump leads over all his challengers with his discount version, the empty and cruel Ron DeSantis, at a distant second.

Trump will more than likely be the nominee, and he is not selling a second term themed around hope and optimism, but one of retribution.

Tim Scott can hope that somehow, someway he can break through and become the first Black man since 1996 to have a credible shot at securing the GOP presidential nomination in 2024, but considering the state of the Republican Party, it might be foolish to place much hope in such an unrealistic scenario.

Related...
Good morning and welcome to the A.M. Alert!

ATKINS GARNERS DEMOCRATIC SUPPORT TO LIFT CALIFORNIAS TRAVEL BAN

Seven years after California barred taxpayer-funded travel to states whose legislatures have enacted anti-LGBTQ legislation, that ban could soon go away.

The Senate Business, Professions and Economic Development Committee on Monday cleared the way for SB 447, by Senate President pro Tem Toni Atkins, D-San Diego.

SB 447 effectively undoes AB 1887, the 2016 travel ban law which Atkins said she voted for. It also would fund creation of a nonpartisan, LGBTQ-inclusive ad campaign that would run in states that have passed anti-LGBTQ laws.

It would focus on issues, not politics or politicians, Atkins said.

Speaking to the committee on Monday, Atkins said that AB 1887 was well meaning, but things have changed significantly and I believe a different approach is warranted.

She said the travel ban has led to unintended consequences, including interfering with the states efforts to establish itself as a destination for out-of-state people seeking an abortions.

One thing we discovered was that while we could pay for peoples plane tickets to California, we couldnt pay for their tickets to go home because of the travel ban, Atkins said.

Atkins had two witnesses testifiy in support of her bill  John Perez, former Assembly Speaker and University of California regent, and Craig Pulsipher, legislative director for Equality California.

Perez said that AB 1887 has forced the university system to play bureaucratic shell games as it avoids spending state funds on student, faculty or staff to banned states.

Pulsipher said the U.S. is awash in anti-LGBTQ legislation, with more than 400 such bills being introduced this year alone, with most targeting transgender people.

At a time when our community is quite literally under attack, being on offense and proactively combating hate is now more important than ever, he said.

No one spoke in opposition to the measure, which passed the committee by a 10-3 vote. The bill moves next to the Senate Appropriations Committee.

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After the bills committee passage on Monday, Atkins sent out an email blast touting the support of many prominent Democratic elected officials, including Sens. Scott Wiener, Susan Talamantes Eggman, Assemblyman Rick Chavez Zbur and Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara.

And what of Assemblyman Evan Low, D-Campbell, the author of AB 1887?

Low released a statement after Atkins first announced her bill saying that while he supports the concept of taking Californias message of inclusion to other states, we shouldnt completely end Californias state-funded travel ban without having an alternative action in combating discrimination. We cant back down, especially as a record amount of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation is being introduced.

MARJORIE TAYLOR GREENE CUTS CHECKS TO EMBATTLED CALIFORNIA REPUBLICANS

When Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Georgia, called for a national divorce last February, Reps. Ken Calvert, Mike Garcia and Michelle Steel joined the majority of their fellow California Republicans in keeping quiet. Now, it appears that their decision not to openly criticize Greene has has paid off.

Greenes most recent Federal Election Commission filing shows that Calvert, Garcia and Steel were among a handful of House Republicans to benefit from her largess, with each receiving $2,000 from the Georgia Republican.

According to Business Insider, Greene has spent a total of $311,000 this year to help her party win close races.

Its unclear whether the campaign contributions will prove to be a liability in 2024, but Greene has firmly cemented herself as a far right Republican firebrand and all three California Republicans are in districts where the California Democratic Party has at least a slight registration advantage; Garcias district, CA-27, also voted for President Joe Biden in the 2020 election, 55.1% to 42.7%.

None of the representatives responded to a Bee request for comment by deadline.

QUOTE OF THE DAY

Im introducing a Constitutional Amendment providing that U.S. Senators, like Members of the House, must always be elected rather than appointed.

- Rep. Kevin Kiley, R-Rocklin, via Twitter.

Best of The Bee:
Democrats arent mounting a pressure campaign to get Sen. Dianne Feinstein to resign. Dont expect them to stay totally quiet either, especially if her absence drags on for months.

At the moment, Democrats are deferring to the legendary California senator to make her own decisions about her future, hoping she'll return to Washington soon  and help clear out a growing backlog of President Joe Bidens judicial nominees.

But as Feinsteins battle with shingles continues to hamper their thin Senate majority, Democrats are also signaling they can't wait indefinitely. They expect Feinstein to act of her own volition if she sees the party's agenda keep languishing during her extended absence.

The question is, how long until she goes back? So if it's three months, I dont know, that becomes a really difficult question. If its a couple of weeks? I'm fine with it, said Sen. John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.). Im not going to pressure her one way or the other. But I think, you know, if it's going to be months and months? My guess is that  she will be her own harshest critic.



Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) blocked Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer's Tuesday afternoon request for unanimous consent to add Sen. Ben Cardin (D-Md.) temporarily to the Judiciary Committee. In theory, that could tee up a floor vote on the matter, but Democrats dont have the 10 GOP votes theyd need to move forward.

This is about a handful of judges that you cant get the votes for, Graham said.

Indeed, Republicans made clear Monday that they would reject Feinsteins request to temporarily step down from the Judiciary panel. Chair Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) has had to repeatedly delay committee votes on judges since Feinsteins absence began in late February. But on Thursday the committee is expected to at least vote on nominees that have bipartisan support, a Durbin spokesperson said.

Now Democrats are largely out of options. And Schumer said little Tuesday, declining to get into any resignation talk whatsoever. Feinstein's future did not come up at Democrats' Tuesday lunch meeting, according to multiple senators.

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"She and I are both very hopeful she will return very soon," said Schumer, who spoke to Feinstein on Friday.

Unless Feinstein returns or resigns, all Democrats can do is wait. Feinstein's term ends at the end of 2024, and her office on Tuesday pointed to last week's statement in which she said she expects to come back.

Its not the first time Democrats have wrestled with tough questions about the twilight of the 89-year-old Feinsteins career. She faced pressure to step down as the top Democrat on the Judiciary Committee during the presidency of Donald Trump and eventually acceded to those demands. She also passed on the role of Senate pro tempore, which as the most senior senator of the majority party would put her in the line of presidential succession.

Now, Democrats expect her to make a difficult call about her own health as it threatens to overshadow her rich legacy in politics. Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.), who is now the pro tempore and was elected the same year as Feinstein, said she has complete confidence that [Feinstein] will make the right decision for her state and her country.

The next step is up to Sen. Feinstein. I hope that means shell be returning to us soon, Durbin said. As to whether she should resign, Durbin added: This is her decision. Shes had a remarkable career in the Senate. Im not going to make that decision or even suggest it.

Publicly, the White House lined up with other Democrats, saying Feinstein deserves a chance to recover and to make her own decisions on her career.

This is a decision for her to make  when it comes to the future, her future, said White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.

Other Democrats noticeably bristled at the suggestion that Feinstein should be forced out, or that the party would talk about her resignation at all. At least three House Democrats have already stated that Feinstein should step down, though no senators have yet joined them.



Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) called the resignation talk among Democrats very selfish.

Other people have different reasons and concerns that they couldn't be here, Manchin said, referring to a spate of health problems that have sidelined other senators recently. We never asked them to step aside.

House Democratic leadership is giving Feinstein similar room to maneuver, with No. 3 Rep. Pete Aguilar (D-Calif.) saying Tuesday she should set her own timetable. However, he added that as the debt ceiling fight heats up in Congress, our expectation as House Democrats is that every senator is going to need to participate.

Yet with the special Senate responsibility of confirming nominees, the problem is already acute across the Capitol.

With Feinstein absent and Republicans refusing to help temporarily replace her, the Judiciary Committee is now tied, hamstringing some Democratic nominees. There are 15 judges who have gone through a hearing  which can be conducted without Feinstein  and are awaiting a panel vote, according to numbers tallied by the American Constitution Society.

Still, there are 18 judges who have already been through the committee and can be brought to a vote on the Senate floor, some of whom may be able to move without the California Democrat.

There are some questions about whether the GOP would even fill Feinsteins slot on Judiciary if she did resign, given that restoring Democrats majority on the panel effectively allows them to unilaterally confirm nominees. Sen. Jon Tester (D-Mont.) said that whether she resigns or not, it isnt gonna make any difference.



But Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas), a Judiciary Committee member and counsel to Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, said that Republicans may view a Senate vacancy differently than Feinsteins request to seek a temporary replacement.

Traditionally thats when the resolution has been changed  when somebody is no longer able to serve, Cornyn said. There's never been a precedent for a temporary replacement, it's my understanding. So if the circumstances were to change, I assume that the precedent would be applied.

Feinstein last voted in the Senate on Feb. 16, kicking off a period in which McConnell and Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) also missed significant time. McConnell and Fetterman have since returned, adding to the pressure on Feinstein. Of course, that already existed in part because her absence was the only one that meant Democrats couldn't confirm certain judges, the most significant thing the party can unilaterally accomplish during a divided government.

Manchin implored Durbin to send judges to the floor that have bipartisan support, which would allow Schumer to move to confirm more nominees but would also isolate a handful of more controversial nominees. And with assurances from Republicans they will vote for nominees who have bipartisan support in Feinstein's absence, "Chair Durbin is pleased to be able to move forward with votes on Thursday," a spokeswoman said on Tuesday evening.

Nicholas Wu contributed to this report.
Republicans on Monday put up a blockade against the Democratic push to temporarily replace Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) on the Senate Judiciary Committee, saying there is no chance theyll take a step that will effectively allow President Bidens most partisan judicial nominations to advance.

GOP senators of all stripes lined up in opposition Monday as they returned to the Capitol from a two-week recess partially headlined by questions about when Feinstein would be back. The six-term senator has been absent since late February due to a case of shingles, leaving the Judiciary panel deadlocked 10-10 and unable to pass partisan nominees along for floor votes.

I, for one, am not going to help President Bidens most unqualified nominees to get confirmed. I dont think youll see us help in that effort, said Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas), a senior member of the panel and a key ally of Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.).

At least five Republicans on the Judiciary Committee  Sens. Tom Cotton (Ark.), Thom Tillis (N.C.), Marsha Blackburn (Tenn.), John Kennedy (La.) and Cornyn  all said they would oppose the effort to replace the longtime California Democrat or saw no reason to remove her.

Kennedy said hed take Feinstein at her word shell be back soon.

I will vote against any attempt by Senate Democrats to temporarily replace Sen. Feinstein on the Judiciary Committee, Tillis, who is often seen as among the more bipartisan senators, tweeted. I deeply respect Senator Feinstein, but this is an unprecedented request solely intended to appease those pushing for radical, activist judges.

And Sens. Susan Collins (Maine) and Lisa Murkowski (Alaska), two of the most moderate Republicans in the chamber, may have put the nail in the coffin of the effort, though for a different reason than some others.

Sen. Feinstein has been an extraordinary senator and shes a good friend of mine. During the last two years, theres been a concerted campaign to force her off the judiciary committee, and I will have no part of that, Collins said.

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Feinstein, 89, last week asked Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) to replace her on the panel, which has had to cancel three markups in her absence. Her request came shortly after Reps. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) and Dean Phillips (D-Minn.) called for her to resign  a call Senate Democrats arent ready to repeat.

But replacing her on the panel while she remains a member of the Senate would require a vote of the full chamber.

Schumer said he plans to bring up a resolution to replace her via unanimous consent this week. If that fails, as is expected, Democrats would need 60 votes to break a filibuster and make the change.

Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) told reporters that he was hopeful the requisite 10 Republicans would help their cause. He argued the shoe could be on the other foot and Republicans could be in a similar position at any time.

Shes asked to be replaced and I hope we can achieve that.  The rain can fall on both sides of the road, and Republicans ought to think a little bit about what this means. Tomorrow they may be facing the exact same thing, Durbin said.

He noted there have been instances of a senator helping out when a colleague on the other side of the aisle has been absent by withholding their vote.

I hope so. I think it would speak well of the Senate. But I will tell you quite honestly, Ive seen the opposite occur, Durbin continued, pointing to the need for Sen. Ted Kennedy (D-Mass.) to return to Washington in 2008 to vote on Medicare legislation over the objections of his doctors. He died a year later.

Durbin did not say who he would prefer to take Feinsteins spot and added he has not talked to Feinstein about her situation or when she could return.

Schumer has said he expects her back soon, with Feinstein saying in her statement last week that she hopes to be back as soon as possible.

However, no firm timeline is in place. Schumer declined to divulge much information on the situation during a press conference on Monday.

She believes she will return soon. Shes very hopeful of that, and so am I, Schumer said.

In the meantime, the backlog at the committee level will continue to sit idle until something happens one way or another. There are 14 nominees who have appeared for Judiciary Committee hearings but have not received a vote from the panel.

The panel last voted to advance a nominee on Feb. 16.

I am concerned, Schumer said, laying the blame for the situation at the feet of Republicans. The real fault lies with Republicans. If you look at past Senates when Republicans were in charge, there has never been this kind of stonewalling of nominees who are qualified, who have good credentials, etcetera.

One person who did not speak on the subject on Monday was McConnell, who returned to the Capitol after a five-week absence due to a cracked rib and a concussion. The GOP leader spoke about his return to the chamber and the ongoing battle to raise the debt ceiling in his floor remarks.

Feinstein said shortly after her shingles diagnosis that she had hoped to return by the end of March, but she recently said that she is continuing to recuperate from the illness that can be difficult to shake.

If she is removed from the panel, the move would mark another lessening of her responsibilities in recent years as her acuity as come into question. Feinstein was the leading Democrat on the panel through 2020, but she stepped aside from that post in favor of Durbin after she was heavily criticized for her handling of judge Amy Coney Barretts confirmation to the Supreme Court.

She also was in line to become Senate Pro Tempore earlier this year as the most senior Democrat, but Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.) filled that post instead. The position would have put Feinstein third in line for the presidency.

Feinstein also announced earlier this year that she is not running for reelection.

From my judgment, this is a matter of respect for Sen. Feinstein, and its extremely disappointing that Republicans would want to put politics into our committee assignments, just as we would work with them if there was a situation on their side to temporarily fill a slot, said Sen. Debbie Stabenow (Mich.), the No. 3 Senate Democrat.

They should be doing that for us. Thats just normal Senate courtesy, she added.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
(CNN)  Sudan's paramilitary forces besieged and shelled a hospital in central Khartoum on Sunday, five eyewitnesses told CNN, as fighting between militants and the country's military claimed nearly 100 lives over the weekend.

The leaders of the opposing sides, Sudan's military leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his former deputy and paramilitary chief Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, have traded blame for the instigating the fighting that has engulfed the country.

Burhan has accused Dagalo of staging an "attempted coup and rebellion against the state."

Witnesses have little doubt about what happened at Al-Moallem hospital, where intense shelling forced staffers to evacuate, leaving some patients behind.

"I have no doubt that they deliberately targeted the hospital," said one medic who evacuated the hospital on Sunday after Dagalo's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) laid siege to it. CNN is not using any of the real names of the hospital medics in this article for safety reasons.

The hospital is meters away from Sudan's army headquarters, and medics said it was treating scores of wounded soldiers and their families. The hospital's maternity ward was struck in the shelling, causing a wall there to collapse, according to hospital employees.

A 6-year-old child died in the building, one medic said. Two other children were seriously wounded. As the shelling intensified, medics and patients huddled together in the corridor and prayed.

At first we were praying for salvation," the medic said. "Then when the shelling got worse, we started to discuss what would be the most painless part of the body to be shot in and began to pray instead to die painlessly."

It's unclear whether the RSF has taken control of the hospital as it attempts to take over the nearby army headquarters, a flashpoint in Khartoum's violence.

"The evacuation was chaos," the medic said. "I thought I was going to vomit. I was stumbling and falling on the ground."

"Can you believe that we left the hospital and left behind children in incubators and patients in intensive care without any medical personnel," another medic said. "The smell of death was everywhere."

"There was no electricity, no water there inside the hospital," said a third medic. "None of our equipment was working, a woman sheltering with us had a two-day-old baby. I don't even know what happened to her."

At least half a dozen hospitals have been struck by both warring sides, according to Sudan's Doctors Trade Union.

"For the second day in a row, amid the absurd and bloody fighting between the People's Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, there is a large number of deaths and moderate and critical injuries," the Central Committee of Sudan Doctors said in a statement posted overnight.

Food, water and power shortages are rampant as Sudan has endured a third day of fighting, that has spread from Khartoum across the nation.

"Food in the fridge and freezers have gone bad," Eman Abu Garjah, a Sudanese-British doctor based in Khartoum, told CNN. "We don't have any supplies at the moment, that's why we're trying to go somewhere where the shops are open."

"The planes were flying overhead earlier in the day. They didn't just wake us up, they prevented us from going back to sleep," she said.

"It's Ramadan, we're up for early morning prayers and after that usually you have a little bit of a siesta and wake up again for the afternoon prayers. But sleep was just not possible. The house was rattling and the windows were shaking."

A broken alliance

Until recently, Dagalo and Burhan were allies. The pair worked together to topple ousted Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir in 2019 and played a pivotal role in the military coup in 2021.

However, tensions arose during recent negotiations to integrate the RSF into the country's military as part of plans to restore civilian rule.

In an interview with CNN on Monday, Burhan accused Dagalo of attempting to "capture and kill" him during an attempt by the paramilitary leader to seize the presidential palace.

In response to the allegation, an RSF spokesperson called Burhan, "a wanted fugitive."

"We are seeking to capture him and bringing him to justice. We are fighting for all Sudanese people," the RSF spokesperson said.

Burhan also accused the RSF of breaking a proposed ceasefire on Sunday and Monday.

"Yesterday and today a humanitarian ceasefire proposal was put forward and agreed upon," said Burhan from army headquarters, as gunshots rang out in the background.

"Sadly, he did not abide by (the ceasefire)," he added. "You can hear right now the attempts to storm the Army headquarters, and indiscriminate mortar attacks. He's using the humanitarian pause to continue the fight."

The RSF denies that it broke ceasefire.

It is unclear how much control the RSF has wrested from the country's military. Dagalo claims he now controls the country's main military sites, a claim repeatedly disputed by Burhan.

"We're under attack from all directions," Dagalo told CNN's Larry Madowo in a telephone interview on Sunday. "We stopped fighting and the other side did not, which put us in a predicament and we had to keep fighting to defend ourselves," he claimed.

Ascent to power

The RSF is the preeminent paramilitary group in Sudan, whose leader, Dagalo, has enjoyed a rapid rise to power.

During Sudan's Darfur conflict, starting in the early 2000s, he was the leader of Sudan's notorious Janjaweed forces, implicated in human rights violations and atrocities.

An international outcry saw ex-President Bashir formalize the group into paramilitary forces known as the Border Intelligence Units.

In 2007, its troops became part of the country's intelligence services and, in 2013, Bashir created the RSF, a paramilitary group overseen by him and led by Dagalo. Dagalo turned against Bashir in 2019.

Months before the coup that unseated Bashir in April 2019, Dagalo's forces opened fire on an anti-Bashir, pro-democracy sit-in in Khartoum, killing at least 118 people.

He was later appointed deputy of the transitional Sovereign Council that ruled Sudan in partnership with civilian leadership.

International powers have expressed alarm at the current violence in Sudan. Apart from concerns over civilians there are likely other motivations at play, the country is resource-rich and strategically located. CNN has previously reported on how Russia has colluded with its military leaders to smuggle gold out of Sudan.

This story was first published on CNN.com, "We left behind children in incubators. Witnesses describe hospital shelled in Sudans clashes."
Sen. Dick Durbin of Illinois, left, speaks with Sen. Dianne Feinstein of California before a Judiciary Committee business meeting on February 16, 2023. AP Photo/Mariam Zuhaib

Durbin asked that his GOP colleagues allow the Senate to replace Feinstein on the Judiciary panel.

Feinstein has been out for weeks and Democrats want to approve President Biden's judicial nominees.

However, the Democratic effort appears to be hitting a brick wall among Republican senators.

As a broad swath of Republican senators on Monday voiced opposition to temporarily replacing Sen. Dianne Feinstein on the Judiciary Committee, the panel's chairman asked that his GOP counterparts "show a little kindness" toward their Democratic colleague as she continues to recover from a bout of shingles.

Feinstein, the 89-year-old veteran lawmaker who has been absent from the Senate for nearly two months, last week requested to be taken off the key Senate panel after facing calls from several Democratic lawmakers to resign from office.

The California senator's weekslong absence has prevented Democrats from confirming President Joe Biden's numerous judicial nominees, which has been a key priority for the administration and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York since the president took office in 2021.

In the first two years of Biden's presidency, Democrats confirmed his nominees at a rapid clip, determined to counter former President Donald Trump's success in installing conservatives to key judicial vacancies during his single term in office. Democrats in January had a 51-49 Senate majority, and members were gleeful at having a 11-10 edge on the Judiciary Committee, which wasn't the case in the previous 50-50 Senate.

But with Feinstein still recovering in San Francisco, the composition of the Judiciary Committee is 10-10. Democrats would need the full Senate to approve a temporary replacement, and Durbin called on Republicans to think of Feinstein, who has served in the body since winning a 1992 special election.

"It just boils down to this  tomorrow this could happen to the Republicans, and they could find themselves in a vulnerable position through no fault of their own," he told a group of reporters, including NBC News, on Capitol Hill. "I hope that they'll show a little kindness and caring for their colleague. She's in a delicate part of her life and her Senate service and they should stand by her and give her a dignified departure from the committee."

Story continues

"She is obviously sensitive to the fact that her absence has an impact on the committee," he continued. "I think we can take care of this issue, do it very quickly, and I hope we can find 10 Republicans who will join us in that effort."

Sen. John Cornyn of Texas didn't foresee Republican members helping Democrats temporarily replace Sen. Dianne Feinstein of California on the Judiciary Committee. AP Photo/Mariam Zuhaib

Little 'appetite' among GOP to replace Feinstein

In order for Democratic leaders to replace Feinstein on the Judiciary Committee, they'd need either unanimous consent or 60 votes to proceed.

But Republican lawmakers, who have railed against many of Biden's judicial nominees as too ideologically liberal, on Monday appeared unwilling to help Democrats with their dilemma  a list which included both conservative hardliner Tom Cotton of Arkansas and the more moderate Susan Collins of Maine.

Sen. John Cornyn of Texas told NBC News that Republicans weren't on board to aid Democrats in restoring their committee edge simply to advance nominees that GOP members feel are unfit to serve on the federal bench.

"These are, by definition, the most controversial nominees," he told the news outlet. "And if Democrats are depending strictly on their own party-line vote to get them out of committee  I don't think there's any appetite on our side to help what we consider to be controversial or unqualified nominees to get confirmed."

Cotton, a Judiciary member who has been sharply critical of the Biden administration, was clear in his opposition to the Democratic effort on Monday.

"Republicans should not assist Democrats in confirming Joe Biden's most radical nominees to the courts," he tweeted.

And Collins, who during the first year of Biden's presidency backed more of his judicial nominees than any other Senate Republican, expressed opposition to the Democratic proposal while also praising Feinstein's service.

"She's been an extraordinary senator, she's a friend of mine," the senator told reporters on Monday. "During the past two years, there has been a concerted campaign to force her off of the Judiciary Committee. And I think that's wrong, and I won't be a part of that."

Feinstein, a trailblazing former San Francisco mayor, had for decades been a broadly popular figure within the party. But as the Democratic base in California shifted to the left, her more moderate stances on many issues made her unpopular with many of the state's progressive voters.

She won reelection by eight points in 2018, but it was her closest race since winning her first full term in 1994.

In 2020, Democrats were incensed at Feinstein  then the ranking member of the Judiciary Committee  after she praised Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina for his handling of the confirmation of conservative jurist Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court. After liberal jurist Ruth Bader Ginsburg died just weeks before the presidential election that November, Republicans pushed through Barrett's nomination, infuriating Democrats still upset that the GOP had blocked now-Attorney General Merrick Garland from ascending to the high court after the death of Antonin Scalia in 2016.

Feinstein announced after the 2020 election that she would not serve as the top Democrat on the Judiciary Committee at the beginning of the new Congress, but would remain a member of the panel.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Following the command of Gov. Ron DeSantis, a state senator has drafted an amendment to retroactively invalidate a development agreement between Walt Disney World and its special taxing district that has undercut the governors control of the districts new governing board.

The amendment, by Sen. Blaise Ingoglia, R-Spring Hill, is scheduled to come before the Senate Rules Committee on Wednesday, and follow through on the governors threat to end what he called a sham agreement. The agreement effectively limits what the governors appointees can do with the special district that houses Disneys theme parks and resorts.

In February, on the eve of a special legislative session to give DeSantis control over the Reedy Creek Improvement District, the Disney-backed board outmaneuvered the governor. It entered into last-minute development and restrictive covenant agreements with Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, U.S., Inc. that essentially require Disney to sign off on any changes made by a governor-controlled board for decades to come.

Ingoglias amendment to SB 1604, a bill relating to land use and development regulations, voids those documents by prohibiting the district from entering into an agreement within three months of getting a new board. The amendment also requires the DeSantis-appointed governing board, now called the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District Board, to review and readopt any development agreement approved by the previous board.

DeSantis announces new round of actions against Disney through Legislature, new board

Ingoglia said at a news conference with DeSantis on Monday in Lake Buena Vista that his goal was to wrench control from Disney and give it to the state.

They were their own government, and I would argue that is an egregious form of corporate welfare, he said. Its unconscionable that one corporation would hold that much power. So what did we do? We took away that power, returned it to the people and put everyone on a level playing field.

Story continues

Original intentions of the 1967 agreement with Disney

Ingoglia, like DeSantis, did not mention that the reason the state created the Reedy Creek Improvement District in 1967 was to allow the company to tax itself to build an infrastructure for municipal services on which to operate the theme park, which at the time was more than 16 miles from the nearest urban development.

They also did not mention that the company not only pays more than $160 million annual tax  at a tax rate three times higher than that paid by residents of Orange and Osceola counties, the money is used to maintain a higher level of services and infrastructure than the counties provide. The taxing district is governed by the board, which until February was appointed by The Walt Disney Co.

On Wednesday, the DeSantis-appointed board of supervisors is scheduled to meet and will also attempt to void the Disney-backed agreement, DeSantis said.

They thought that they could create some type of development agreements that would essentially render everything that we did null and void and put them in control in perpetuity for this, DeSantis said at the special district headquarters. Well, thats not going to fly right now.

How did the Disney-DeSantis feud develop? A timeline from COVID rules to culture wars

The feud began when Disney voiced opposition to the Legislatures passage of the Parental Rights in Education Bill in 2022, which prohibited classroom instruction on gender identity issues in certain grades. The fight continued this year after Disney CEO Bob Iger called DeSantis move anti-business and anti-Florida.

Although DeSantis suggested he was interested in more punitive measures aimed at Disney, such as possibly building a state prison next to the companys theme parks and imposing new regulations on its rides and monorails, the amendment attempts to void the development agreement and the restrictive covenants but does not impose additional restrictions.

Legal analysis leans in Disneys favor

Legal analysts who reviewed Ingoglias amendment told the Herald/Times that the proposal is likely to face a legal challenge, and the proposal could be declared unconstitutional under the Contracts Clause of both the U.S. and Florida constitutions. If approved, the change could establish new precedent for handling development in Florida.

That clause prohibits government actions to impair an existing contract, said Jake Schumer, a municipal attorney in the suburban Orlando law firm of Shepard, Smith, Kohlmyer & Hand.

He said the state will argue that the contract wasnt impaired because state law allows for modifications, but Disney will argue that state law isnt meant to allow the Legislature to veto contracts but merely to allow lawmakers to enact new regulations.

I think Disneys argument is stronger, but its not a slam dunk, Schumer said. But the amendment is also intended to apply to the restrictive covenants, which imposed restrictions on the governor-controlled board for things like building heights and other development decisions.

By attempting to repeal those covenants, the amendment is a clear violation of the contracts clause, Schumer argued. It would be a major change in the law for the bill to be held up as to the application to that agreement.

Florida statute does not authorize this state on its own to modify or revoke a development agreement, said Michael Wolf, a professor of local government and property law at the University of Florida,

Jane West, a lawyer and policy and planning director for 1000 Friends of Florida, a growth management advocacy organization, said the amendment is not likely to affect other development agreements in force in other parts of the state.

In my opinion, this language of this amendment is so narrowly tailored that it would have practically zero application in any other development agreement context that I am aware of  which is good for the rest of Florida, not so much for Disney, West said.

First Amendment could come into play

If legislators pass the amendment, they will also tee up a major First Amendment case, the legal experts said. The company could argue that the governor and Legislature are attempting to punish it for speaking out.

If Disney can demonstrate all of this is an attempt of this Legislature and the governor to bully them or punish them because their executives were taking a position that is unpopular with the duly elected representatives of the people, then it is entitled to First Amendment protection, Wolf said.

The entire thing is arguably prohibited retaliation under the First Amendment because it springs from Disneys protected speech against the education bill, and the new [amendment] seems clearly targeted only at Reedy Creek, Schumer said.

Wolf also said that the measure could also be invalidated by the court because it attempts to retroactively apply to the Disney agreements. In 1999 the Florida Supreme Court ruled in Metro-Dade County v. Chase Fed. Hous. Corp. that generally due process considerations prevent the State from retroactively abolishing vested rights.

Miami Herald editor Adrian Ruhi contributed to this report.

Mary Ellen Klas can be reached at meklas@miamiherald.com and @MaryEllenKlas
Senator Roger Marshall (R., Kan.) released a report on the origins of Covid-19 on Monday, advancing the idea that the pandemic most likely was the result of two leaks.

This report concludes most likely this was two leaks [including] a lab leak in the September-October [2019] timeframe, even as early as July or August, Marshall told reporters ahead of the the reports publication.

Weve concluded that [China] started vaccine development in November 2019. And then another lab leak seems to be most sensible explanation, the senator added. There are key data points that are being held back that could help us prove that.

The 301-page report titled Muddy Waters was drafted by Robert Kadlec, a medical expert who spearheaded Operation Warp Speed, a public-private partnership launched in May 2020 to accelerate the development and distribution of vaccines.

READ: The Origins of Covid-19 Report  We must establish additional guardrails on risky Gain of Function research to make sure lethal research NEVER leaks again. https://t.co/XWuT3Ia1Zu  Dr. Roger Marshall (@RogerMarshallMD) April 18, 2023

The report speculates that two lab leaks occurred within weeks of one another in the fall of 2019 in Wuhan, China, home to a virology research institute. In the months following the initial leaks, Covid-19 cases in the surrounding region spiked.

The theory is largely based on the development timeline of Chinas Covid vaccine: Dr. Zhou Yusen, a Chinese military scientist who later died under mysterious circumstances, filed a Covid-vaccine patent on February 24 2020, which suggests that work on the vaccine must have begun at least as early as November, 2019, based on Operation Warp Speeds timeline. A number of Iranian athletes who traveled to Wuhan for the World Military Games in the fall of 2019 further supports this early-outbreak timeline, the report argues.

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There was [a] noticeable increase of Wuhan adult ILI cases during week 46 (November 11-17, 2019) corresponded to negative influenza testing that same week. This occurrence is similar to the epidemiological outlier identified in the published study. It occurs approximately 13 weeks before the recorded surge of COVID-19 cases in Wuhan in late January, early February 2020, the report notes.

Epidemiological and genetic molecular analyses of the early published circulating Wuhan SARS-CoV-2 strains supported the possibility of two spillover events two or more weeks apart, Kadlec writes in the report.

This assessment was made based on minor genetic differences in early circulating strains suggesting that two lineages of the same virus may have emerged simultaneously and progressed on different paths or sequentially separated by some period of time.

One lineage showing more mutations than the other implying it had been circulated longer than the other or had potentially passed through more individuals.

In the early stages of the global pandemic, leading American medical experts such as Anthony Fauci, the former director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, as well as prominent academic journals like the Lancet denounced supporters of the lab-leak theory as peddlers of conspiracy theories.

If you look at the evolution of the virus in bats and whats out there now, [the scientific evidence] is very, very strongly leaning toward this could not have been artificially or deliberately manipulated, Fauci told National Geographic in May 2020.

Everything about the stepwise evolution over time strongly indicates that [this virus] evolved in nature and then jumped species, Fauci said.

However, recent announcements by the Department of Energy and the FBI that the lab leak theory may have been the primary culprit of the viral outbreak have raised new questions.

China has had every chance to disprove all reports surrounding the origins of COVID-19, but they have not & will not. Im proud to release The Origins of COVID-19 Report, a crucial development in getting to the bottom of COVID-19s origins, Senator Marshall tweeted on Monday night.

More from National Review
Map of Senegal

Long considered one of Africa's model democracies, the western African nation of Senegal has a tradition of stable governments and civilian rule.

Hundreds of Senegalese were killed in a separatist conflict in the southern region of Casamance, but violence has waned since a 2014 ceasefire.

The country's stability has allowed it to send peacekeeping troops to DR Congo, Liberia and Kosovo.

Slaves, ivory and gold were exported from the coast during the 17th and 18th Centuries, and now the economy is based on agriculture. The money sent home by Senegalese living abroad is a key source of revenue.

Read more country profiles - Profiles by BBC Monitoring

REPUBLIC OF SENEGAL: FACTS

Capital: Dakar

Area: 196,712 sq km

Population: 17.1 million

Language: French

Life expectancy: 65 years (men) 70 years (women)

LEADER

President: Macky Sall

Senegal's President Macky Sall

Once an ally of President Abdoulaye Wade, Macky Sall created his own opposition party in 2008 and defeated Wade in the 2012 elections, and he was re-elected in February 2019.

During his time in office, the separatist conflict in the southern Casamance region has waned, and in 2014 rebel leader Salif Sadio declared a ceasefire.

MEDIA

The Senegalese island of Goree was the largest slave-trading centre on the African coast

Senegal has traditionally had one of the most unrestricted and diverse media scenes in the region.

The constitution guarantees freedom of information and abuses against journalists are relatively infrequent, says press freedom group Reporters Without Borders.

TIMELINE

Leopold Senghor was independent Senegal's first president and led the country for two decades

Some key dates in Senegal's history:

8th Cemtury - Present-day Senegal is part of the Kingdom of Ghana.

11th Century - Islam comes to the region through contact with the Morocco-based Almoravid dynasty.

12th-14th Centuries - Rise of the Jolof empire.

1440s - Portuguese traders reach Senegal river estuary.

1588 - Dutch establish slave port on island of Goree.

1659 - French found St-Louis at the mouth of the Senegal river; it becomes a key slave-trading port.

1677 - French take over island of Goree from the Dutch, the start of nearly 300 years of French oversight.

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1756-63 - Seven Years War: Britain takes over French posts in Senegal, forms colony of Senegambia.

1775-83 - France regains its holdings during the American Revolutionary War.

1816 - Britain returns French holdings captured during Napoleonic Wars.

Late 1800s - France extends its influence, gains control of all the territory of Senegal.

1895 - Senegal becomes part of French West Africa.

1914 - Blaise Diagne elected as Senegal's first African deputy to French parliament.

1946 - Senegal becomes part of the French Union.

1958 - Becomes an autonomous republic, as part of the French Community.

1960 - Senegal becomes independent, initially as part of Mali Federation with French Sudan (now the Republic of Mali) but quickly pulls out to become a separate republic.

1966 - Leopold Senghor's Senegalese Progressive Union becomes the sole political party.

1982 - Senegambian confederation formed; Senegal and neighbouring Gambia aim to combine military and security forces.

1982 - Separatists in the southern province form the Movement of Democratic Forces of Casamance (MFDC), clash sporadically with the army over following decades.

1989 - Confederation with Gambia is dissolved.

2000 - Opposition leader Abdoulaye Wade wins presidential elections.

2014 - Rebel leader Salif Sadio, who had been fighting for the independence of the Casamance region, declares a unilateral ceasefire.
The family of Shanquella Robinson is outraged after learning U.S. law enforcement will not charge anyone with her death. This decision has left them to consider a civil lawsuit in hopes of justice.

TMZ spoke to the mother and sister of the deceased about how their family is coping after a decision by U.S. officials to close the case on their loved ones death, with no one being held accountable.

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department and the Charlotte sector of the FBI handled the case with authorities in Cabo, Mexico.

The 25-year-olds mother, Sallamondra, and sister, Quella, are as devastated as they are confused. They revealed to TMZ the results of the investigations completed in the U.S. and Mexico were vastly different.

Her death while on vacation in Cabo San Lucas in October 2022 resulted in two autopsies. According to the one there, Mexican officials reported her cause of death was severe spinal cord injury and instability of her vertebrae. The outlet added this suggested the young woman experienced trauma.

The family told TMZ the U.S. authorities did their autopsy once Robinsons body was shipped home. According to the outlet, they admitted that there was swelling in her brain, but reported the cause of death was inconclusive.

The widely circulated video of Robinson being attacked showed her being punched in the head and dropped on her neck. So the family feels the Mexican officials theory is the most logical.

Blavity reported that the familys legal team is being led by famed civil rights attorney Ben Crump and Sue-Ann Robinson (no relation).

After the ruling, Sue-Ann stated the U.S. officials relying on their less acute and delayed autopsy is a discrepancy that has yet to be properly explained.

Sue-Ann told TMZ that justice for Shanquella was not served, at the fault of U.S. prosecutors. She added the family is not accepting the decision of the investigation and said they will continue to seek ways to pursue criminal charges.

Story continues

The family has previously met with President Joe Biden and will continue to pursue his intervention and press other government officials for assistance in getting the answers they deserve.

Getting the U.S. Attorneys Office involved is the next step needed to reopen Robinsons case criminally.

TMZ reported the family was offered the option to exhume her body for a third opinion, which they state is still an option.

Family members are also not ruling out taking civil legal action against the individuals that vacationed with her. They know the friends last seen with her before her death and believe they know more than they told officials.
As the U.S. becomes increasingly wary of China's growing influence on the Western tech stage, internet platforms from TikTok to Shein are finding themselves in Washington's sights.

As a Chinese saying goes: The first bird that pokes its head out gets shot. In recent months, lawmakers in the U.S. have escalated efforts to ban TikTok. In December, the U.S. House of Representatives ordered its staff and lawmakers to delete the video app from their government-issued mobiles. A broader restriction appears to be looming after the app's CEO Shou Zi Chew went through five hours of grilling questions before Congress in late March.

Now Temu and Shein, two fast-growing e-commerce platforms that leverage China's efficient supply chains to ship affordable goods to American consumers, are facing heightened scrutiny from Washington.

The U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission (USCC), a government organ created by Congress to report on the national security implications of the bilateral trade and economic relationship between the two countries, published a report detailing the "challenges" presented by Chinese fast fashion platforms.

Those challenges include "exploitation of trade loopholes; concerns about production processes, sourcing relationships, product safety, and use of forced labor; and violations of intellectual property rights."

The report, which came out last Friday, singles out Shein and Temu as two foremost examples posing such risks to America.

These concerns have been flagged before. For instance, Rick Helfenbein, former chairman of the Board of the American Apparel & Footwear Association, wrote back in 2021 that Shein and other similar direct-to-consumer e-commerce players managed to take advantage of the U.S. de minimis import exemption, which allows $800 per person per day to be free of tariff.

But as Shein and Temu gain further ground in the U.S., their influence inevitably draws more attention. Shein was the most downloaded shopping app in the U.S. last year, overtaking Amazon; Temu, which is the sister app of China's online deals giant Pinduoduo, managed to climb to the top of the U.S. app stores in the course of a few weeks.

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Shein responded to the USCC report in a statement: "As a global company with customers and operations around the world, Shein takes visibility across our supply chain seriously. For over a decade, we have been providing customers with on-demand and affordable fashion, beauty and lifestyle products, lawfully and with full respect for the communities we serve."

Temu did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The fact that Shein is in the crosshairs of USCC goes to show the difficulty of trying to play down one's China links. In an effort to shun the impact of geopolitical tensions, Chinese companies expanding in the West feel increasingly pressured to disassociate themselves from home. Many Chinese startups have expressed to TechCrunch their angst about being trapped in geopolitics while trying to build a genuinely competitive global product.

As I wrote before, many of them are now moving their main entity abroad and even securing foreign citizenship for their executives, aside from basic practices like storing user data in the target markets rather than China.

In Shein's case, the fast fashion behemoth, which was founded in Nanjing and Guangzhou a decade ago, has made Singapore the home of its de facto holding company; its founder and CEO Sky Xu also reportedly became a permanent resident of Singapore, a country seen as politically neutral and favored as an overseas outpost by Chinese tech bosses for its cultural and geographic vicinity.
(Reuters) - Inspections of ships moving grains from Ukraine have restarted after a pause which threatened to shut down the Black Sea shipping corridor, the RIA news agency cited the Russian foreign ministry as saying on Tuesday.

A ministry official quoted by RIA blamed Monday's interruption on Ukraine's failure to observe agreed procedures but said the issue has been resolved.

Kyiv said on Monday the U.N.-brokered initiative allowing the safe Black Sea export of Ukrainian grain was in danger of shutting down after Russia blocked inspections of participating ships in Turkish waters.

Pyotr Ilyichyov, head of the international organisations department at Russia's foreign ministry, told RIA that the passage of grain ships depended both on the weather and on how well they observed the procedures.

It remains unclear if the grain deal, in place since last July, will be renewed, as Russia complains another agreement, aimed at facilitating its own agricultural and fertilizer exports, has not been upheld.

(Reporting by Reuters; Editing by Jacqueline Wong and Christian Schmollinger)
Law enforcement agents are still searching for a shooter who wounded two women and a man near a Cincinnati park Saturday evening.

>> TRENDING: Multiple calls made to 911 from address of Darke Co. double homicide; 1 made night of crime

Cincinnati police were dispatched to Piatt Park shortly before 6 p.m. after receiving reports of multiple people being shot, WCPO reported.

When officers arrived, they located three victims, two women and one man, in and around the park with gunshot wounds. Medics transported the victims to a local hospital for further treatment.

Police blocked access to Piatt Park for several hours as officers checked alleys and the nearby area for the suspect and more victims.

We were given some statements that there may have been a person over in that area and the officers were just checking to see if anyone needed help, Cincinnati Police Lieutenant David Schofield said. Also, with the recent shooting, we just needed to take precautions to make sure officers were safe.

Schofield claimed the shooting of the three victims appeared to be connected, according to WCPO.

Following a preliminary investigation, a group was approached by a man who started an altercation with them and fired shots, Schofield said.

It was unknown how many shots were fired or if the shooting was related to another call made less than 24 hours earlier.

We will be investigating both of them fully, Schofield said, If we found any indication that theyre connected, Ill let you know.

Harold Greene said he was inside a library when he heard the shots nearby. He then checked to see if there were any potential victims.

We see a woman getting patched up by the police, by the officers, and what now. We come back, and I see one of my friends I know, he was hobbling around, Greene said. He got shot in the foot.

Cincinnati police led the investigation into the shooting.

Investigators are continuing to review area footage, interview witnesses, and search the area for the suspect who remains at large.
The CEO of the National Black Doulas Association details some of the challenges that Black doulas are up against.

Black Maternal Health Week, which closes today, began this year with news of a Black family in Texas losing custody of their newborn after following the advice of their midwife about the infants jaundice care.

This ordeal is a perfect example of the sort of barriers Black doulas and midwives face while trying to conduct care, Tracie Collins, founder and CEO of the National Black Doulas Association (NBDA), said in a recent interview with theGrio. Collins said while doulas are a key part of combating the troubling Black maternal mortality rate, they face a slew of challenges on the job. A major one is pay inequity.

Collins said insurance companies and doctors lack of understanding of the role of Black (and brown) doulas perpetuates pay inequity, the No. 1 problem facing Black doulas. The average cost of hiring a doula is around $1,500, but Collins said white doulas can make between $20,000 and $50,000 more a year than a Black doula.

This is why we are working so diligently and quietly until things are solidified with insurance companies to add doulas into their benefits, she said.

The pay gap is also a reason that Collins started NBDA, which has business development embedded in its training curriculum and extends the training further through mentorship. I wanted to teach Black and brown doulas the business aspect, she said. Not just how to support families. You also have to understand it as a business.

Beyond business savvy, the general perception of Black and brown doulas contributes to this ongoing pay inequity. Collins recalled a recent interview she did during which the interviewer erroneously stated that Black and brown doulas offered their services for free.

That is why white doulas continue to surpass Black and brown doulas when it comes to pay equity. We are referenced as the community workers versus actual birthing professionals, she said. There are a lot of doulas who have advanced degrees. You know, there are a lot of doulas who get in there and work with the community but they should not be devalued from a pay standpoint due to the color of their skin. The work is all the same.

Story continues

Black doulas and midwives can be vital to a Black birthing persons success, however, they face challenges in attempting to conduct care because they are misunderstood. (Photo credit: Getty/Brooke Fasani Auchincloss)

Meanwhile, there are those other challenges that doulas face. From insurance companies not covering their care to being barred from the delivery room to seemingly being undermined at every turn, they are up against huge obstacles. Collins noted that these conditions exist because physicians and hospitals both lack a cultural understanding of Black and brown families and what doulas and midwives do. Every birthing person needs a doula, she said.

By providing necessary emotional, informational  and even physical  support throughout pregnancy, doulas prepare clients for the birth itself. Midwives provide crucial hands-on medical support for the birthing person and baby. You can often find individuals who are certified to offer both types of services. Both, Collins said, should be considered members of a team.

The evidence of doulas success was once mostly anecdotal, but increasingly studies point to their benefits. A National Library of Medicine study, for instance, confirmed that doula-assisted mothers were four times less likely to have a low birth weight (LBW) baby, two times less likely to experience a birth complication involving themselves or their baby, and significantly more likely to initiate breastfeeding.

According to Collins, doulas increase birthing satisfaction by at least 20%. They also decrease the need for cesarean sections by 20% and decrease the rate of medical intervention by 30%.

Collins said she hopes perceptions will soon shift in mainstream medicine. Particularly, cultural competency for hospitals, for doctors and physicians, she said. Then a level of accountability with insurance companies, so if [physicians and hospitals] dont adhere to the set policy when it comes to accountability, there is some repercussion in their dollar, in their pay. And that they have to go through a system of being held accountable.

Though a lot of what Collins describes are things that require a cultural shift in how doulas and midwives are viewed, there are solutions birthing people can utilize now.

When it comes to affordability and getting Black doulas paid for their vital work, Collins said pregnant people can push back against physicians unwilling to sign off on doulas or midwives and ask for the rejection in writing. Once you start to create a paper trail, then you know, they tend to straighten up because their major concern in hospitals, and doctors, theyre gonna always operate from liability first, she said.

The family in Texas bumped up against this dynamic. Physicians weighing in have noted that the pediatrician  who suggested the family seek medical intervention for the infant and who subsequently reported the husband and wife to Child Protective Services (CPS) when they chose not to after consulting with their midwife  could have potentially been liable if the babys condition worsened.

Collins also said parents-to-be should be wary of any practitioner who doesnt respect their wishes or challenges how they choose to parent their child. Those are some key things to pay attention to, she said.

Further, she stressed that planning a pregnancy healthcare strategy should require at least the amount of research that goes into planning a vacation. This includes thoroughly vetting care providers, reading reviews, getting a sense of the cultural understanding of potential care providers as well as learning their philosophy on doulas, midwives and other desired care approaches. If theyre not in line with your values, Collins recommends seeking out someone else.

Just because your insurance company is accepted, theyre in network, does not mean you have to go with this person, she said. Really explore your options. Understand your rights. Communicate with a patients rights advocate.

In terms of ensuring that doulas are paid, Collins pointed out that pregnant people can get creative. If they dont have the resources, people can put it on their birth registry, she said. Say, Pay for my Doula. I dont need all of these toys and other things for my child.

Many doula groups around the country make gifting doula services convenient by offering gift certificates.

Another piece of advice that Collins offered is that pregnant people seek out a certified doula or midwife  its a bonus if theyre NBDA-certified because their curriculum specifically trains in Black and brown traditions. Collins recommends also asking doulas and midwives how many births theyve handled and how many they handle per month.

Its also vital to know whats at stake. According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Black birthing people are 2.9 times more likely than white birthing people during childbirth or from childbirth-related causes. Black doulas and midwives can help navigate the process, provide close-up monitoring and act as a liaison or proxy.

However, they alone cannot solve the systemic racism that can  as the Texas incident might suggest  vilify Black parents and even themselves. Thats the reason why doulas are not the solution, Collins said. They are just a part of the solution.

Kay Wicker is a lifestyle writer for theGrio covering health, wellness, travel, beauty, fashion, and the myriad ways Black people live and enjoy their lives. She has previously created content for magazines, newspapers, and digital brands.

TheGrio is FREE on your TV via Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku, and Android TV. TheGrios Black Podcast Network is free too. Download theGrio mobile apps today! Listen to Writing Black with Maiysha Kai.

The post Show Black doulas the money! The No. 1 problem facing them is pay inequity. appeared first on TheGrio.
It was time.

Trick Daddy finally removed his grills.

The famed Miami rapper didnt undergo the treatment for aesthetic purposes; apparently, his oral hygiene wasnt so hot, TMZ first reported.

Tricks dentist, Danielle Noguera of 5 Star Smiles in Coral Gables, told the media outlet that the Sundays Eatery owner had not tended to his teeth in a very long while, as in 15 years. Thats FIFTEEN.

Translation: Those gold grills hes been sporting since 1994 (we really dont want to imagine what his breath was like) were covering up some major decay.

How bad were the hip hoppers chompers? Lets just say Trick had to undergo painful bone graft surgery to repair them. Noguera says that the hip hopper has already plunked down $60,000 to eventually have a Hollywood smile, full of sparkling white porcelain veneers. Your guy is already halfway there, with the uppers completed, before and after pics on the site show.

If you care to see whats going on under the 48-year-old music legends hood, literally, the Love & Hip Hop: Miami cameras reportedly documented his complicated oral health journey.

Lesson to the kids at home: Brush and floss twice daily and have your teeth professionally cleaned.
(CNN)  People of color in the US face heightened risks of harm from climate-induced disasters. Now, non-profits are pushing to remedy that disparity with more equitable approaches to disaster preparedness, response and recovery.

Until we really address the root issues of climate injustice, were going to continue to see a disproportionate impact as it relates to disasters in Black and historically excluded communities, said Abre Conner, Director of Environmental and Climate Justice for the NAACP.

The unequal toll of climate disasters

A report by the EPAs Office of Atmospheric Programs looked at four vulnerable social groups: people living on low-income, racial minorities, those with no high school diploma, and seniors over age 65. Of those four groups, the study found minorities are most likely to live in areas projected to be impacted by climate change.

Moreover, Black people are 40% more likely than non-African-Americans to live in areas with the highest projected increases in mortality rates due to changes in extreme temperatures.

Its a dire warning for the future, based on an inequitable past.

Many marginalized people, Black in particular, have faced socioeconomic factors that relegate them to living in environmentally hazardous areas or substandard housing structures. So, when a natural disaster hits, they are ill-equipped to withstand the impact.

That was the situation this past March 24 when a severe tornado leveled much of the Black-majority rural town of Rolling Fork, Mississippi, killing 26 people. Racial disparities existed in Rolling Fork for decades. Many residents there were poor, had low access to information or internet service, were priced out of insurance coverage, and lived in mobile homes that werent retrofitted to withstand severe weather conditions. With the nearest tornado shelter over 15 miles away, it set the perfect storm to leave people displaced and scrambling for aid and assistance, which was very slow to arrive.

The tendency is to ignore and exclude, and thats a violation of human rights, said Chauncia Willis, CEO and founder of the Institute for Diversity and Inclusion in Emergency Management (I-DIEM).

Willis group deploys equity response teams before and after disasters to help community organizations integrate equity into all facets of disaster policy and practices. She started I-DIEM after spending over 14 years in disaster management.

Ive witnessed the disparities, and it hits a little different when the people look like you, Willis said in an interview with CNN.

Almost three weeks after the tornado, Rolling Forks mayor said about 500 people  roughly a third of the towns population remained displaced, leaving victims with questions and concerns. To provide some answers, FEMA, MEMA (Mississippi Emergency Management Agency), the Small Business Administration, and the American Red Cross are holding a series of town halls, the first of which took place Tuesday at South Delta Elementary School.

Housing is a major concern at the present. It wasnt just Rolling Fork; it was all of those other communities surrounding that were also impacted by the tornado, said Willis. Thats going to be the difference between life and death in the future.

The future is concerning; marginalized communities historically endured long-term effects from disasters.

Remnants of destruction are still visible In New Orleans primarily Black 9th ward 18 years after Hurricane Katrina.

Lingering effects of racism

Although natural disasters dont discriminate, the response can, especially when the lingering effects of structural racism hamper relief.

In Katrinas aftermath, Louisiana instituted a Road Home program, disbursing emergency funds based on appraised home values rather than actual rebuilding costs. But after decades of discriminatory economic practices including redlining, homes in historically White communities typically appraised far higher than comparable houses in Black neighborhoods.

Also, New Orleans White neighborhoods tend to sit on higher ground with less risk of flooding and easier access to jobs and resources. The circumstances after Katrina ended up forcing many Black families out of the city.

Poverty should not hinder survival from disasters. Being a person that is not White shouldnt limit your survival, said Willis.

But there is growing awareness of the unfairness and concerted efforts to fix it. Sally Ray from the Center for Disaster Philanthropy says racial and socioeconomic disparities are key factors guiding where her organization deploys funding.

I think we need to quit being uncomfortable talking about the intersection of climate change, racism, and disasters, Ray told CNN. The reality is we have long systemic racist problems across our country, and because of these things, when a disaster comes, its much more devastating.

The problem with emergency management response

A growing body of research spotlights the historical inequity in federal disaster response.

One 2018 study by sociologists from Rice University and the University of Pittsburgh looked at counties that each suffered the same amount ($10 billion) in hazard damage. In those events, Black survivors wealth decreased by an average $27,000 while White survivors average wealth increased $126,000.

In 2020, FEMAs advisory council acknowledged the inequities and called for the agency to address the issue.

On January 20, 2021, President Biden signed Executive Order 13985 to advance racial equity and support for underserved communities through the federal government. Since then, FEMA has undertaken initiatives to expand access and reduce barriers to their response, recovery, and resilience programs.

In an email to CNN, FEMA spokesman Jeremy Edwards said, Recognizing this and the realities of historically underserved communities, FEMAunder the leadership of Administrator Criswellhas undertaken a number of initiatives to reduce barriers, so all people, including those from vulnerable and underserved communities, are better able to access our assistance.

The agency has simplified the eligibility process, expanded the ways survivors can verify home occupancy, and prioritized casework for vulnerable populations.

FEMA says these changes have enabled 124,000 survivors to access over $709 million in assistance they would have previously been ineligible to receive.

But non-profit leaders want FEMA to do more.

I think that in earnest they are trying to correct, but we can still do better in pushing to ensure these recoveries are equitable, said Art delaCruz, CEO of Team Rubicon. This veteran-led humanitarian organization assists global communities before, during, and after disasters and crises.

Grassroots activists insist equitable disaster planning and response must start with local voices.

The future of disaster management is actually going to be at the local level with the locals as the lead rather than the federal government or state government, explained I-DEIMs Willis.

Inherent distrust of authorities after years of racist and discriminatory practices is one reason why. Another reason is simple pragmatism.

Who knows the community better? asked Willis, whose group helps set up Community Resilience Hubs and local-led facilities to support neighbors, coordinate communication and provide emergency management training.

Willis emphasizes that these types of initiatives, and more, need to be done before disasters strike. When people are not prioritized before a disaster, those same people will bear the brunt.

Non-profit and community-based organizations leading equity by filling in gaps

For a long time, non-profit organizations have been counted on to plug gaps that the government had yet to fill in disenfranchised communities. And increasingly, non-profits are doing things differently to address racial disparities in disaster management.

For Team Rubicon, that means using tools like the CDC/ATSDR Social Vulnerability Index. The index, launched by the Center for Disease Control and the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, uses 16 variables to help emergency planners and officials identify vulnerable communities before, during, or after disasters. Those variables include social factors like poverty, lack of transportation, and crowded housing. The databases and maps generated by the tool help estimate supplies required, emergency personnel needs, evacuation procedures, and even whether an area needs emergency shelters.

As we see a disaster strike an area, that is where we try to deploy because we know thats where the greatest need is, explained delaCruz.

The Center for Disaster Philanthropy focuses on identifying a diverse pool of applicants in their grantmaking, pushing more funds to organizations supporting struggling communities of color, and listening to the needs of the affected people on an individualized basis.

We work really at the local grassroots level to get to know the community, said the Center for Disaster Philanthropys Sally Ray, who spoke to CNN from Oklahoma City, which was hard-hit by tornadoes last year. She and her team are on the ground, accessing lingering issues and working on proactive ways to support the town throughout this years tornado season.

Our goal has always been to leave a community in a better place and be there for the long-term commitment to that, Ray added.

Meanwhile, many non-profits, especially at the local level, are overstretched as major disasters become more frequent and destructive.

There are communities that have suffered disaster after disaster after disaster, and the toll on the people and the community increases each time that happens, said delaCruz.

We need to start integrating community-based organizations into the global emergency management structure, said Willis.

Building resilience

Disasters destabilize communities as well as economies. That is why much of the conversation among emergency management leaders lately has focused on building an inclusive approach to disaster resilience.

In Rolling Rock, theres been a disaster. Now is the time to rebuild with the proper strategy, with forethought, a focus on resilience, and a focus on life-saving equity, Willis from I-DIEM explained. She said these resilience efforts must include disaster preparedness and infrastructure improvement and awareness of socioeconomic issues impacting marginalized communities.

FEMA says they are committed to helping Mississippi recover.

To date the agency says they have visited 1,400 homes in Sharkey County alone, interacting with over 2,400 survivors and registering hundreds for assistance. Theyve also provided more than $5.4 million to Mississippi households since the deadly tornadoes struck earlier this year.

The agency also implemented some grassroots efforts like non-financial direct technical assistance to help build community-wide resilience in 20 communities, tribes, and territories.

Nonprofits continue to play a crucial role. But the problem looms large, and when it comes to disaster response for historically marginalized communities, theres more than enough workload to go around.

There is no value in not directly preparing communities of color, Willis said. The government already underserves them. Do they also need to be underserved by humanity?

This story was first published on CNN.com, Racial disparities are working against disaster recovery for people of color. Climate change could make it worse"
The Snake River has been named the fourth most endangered river in the nation on an annual list compiled by American Rivers.

The reason? The four dams along the lower Snake River in Eastern Washington, located near the Tri-Cities to near the Idaho border.

The annual report by the nonprofit calls for the dams to be removed, but not immediately.

... (It) is critical that the hydropower, transportation and irrigation services of the dams are replaced before dam removal can begin, the report said.

The dams provide more than 1,000 megawatts of clean energy, or enough to power almost 1 million homes.

Well over 100 people rallied in August at Howard Amon Park in Richland in opposition to breaching the four lower Snake River dams in Eastern Washington.

Much of the year, Bonneville Power Administration relies on the lower Snake River dams specifically to help meet peak demands for energy, according to the Tri-City Development Council (TRIDEC).

A recent analysis by the Washington Post found Washington state to have the second cleanest power in the nation, thanks mostly to its hydroelectric generation. Vermont was first with mostly nuclear and some hydro generation.

The dams also allow 50 to 60 million tons of cargo to be moved on the lower Snake River annually, including allowing farmers to export grain and other crops grown in interior parts of the United States to overseas markets.

The four lower Snake dams  Ice Harbor, Lower Monumental, Little Goose and Lower Granite  have some of the most advanced and successful fish passage systems in the world, according to TRIDEC.

It says fish headed downstream are surviving at rates similar to fish in undammed rivers.

But all species of salmon and steelhead populations in the Snake River Basin are now listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act, says American Rivers.

Overall fish survival now at four Columbia River and four Snake River dams.

The fish support the entire food web from the Rocky Mountains to the Pacific Ocean, including at least 135 species, from salmon to salamanders to endangered Southern Resident killer wells, says American Rivers.

The dams turned (what) was once a free-flowing river into a series of still-water reservoirs that act as a bathtub left in the sun, contributing to increased water temperatures and exacerbating climate change through emissions of methane, the American Rivers report said.

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Temperatures in the lower Snake now consistently reach 70 degrees, a temperature that can be lethal for salmon and steelhead, in July and remain high throughout summer months, the report said.

Its clear that salmon cannot recover with the lower four Snake River dams in place, said the report.

Replacing Snake dam benefits

There is no silver bullet to rebuild salmon and steelhead populations, said Kyle Smith with American Rivers.

Removing the dams would be part of a broader strategy to recover salmon, not the be all, end all, he said.

Habitat restoration, reintroducing species in the upper Columbia River and prevention of predation by fish, birds and sea mammals are needed, he said.

Lower Monumental Dam near Kahlotus on the Snake River spills water to benefit juvenile salmon in July 2022. The Snake was named the nations fourth most endangered river in 2023 by American Rivers.

American Rivers wants Eastern Washington to be part of the conversation on replacing the benefits of the dams as momentum and a sense of inevitability on removal of the dams builds, Smith said.

Participation from concerned communities and impacted industries is critical so the solutions we generate and settle on are inclusive and holistic rather than decided by someone in Seattle or Portland that isnt aware of some of the intricacies or nuances of life in the Northwest, he said.

American Rivers wants the dams hydropower replaced with renewables, such as solar backed up with battery storage.

Smith concedes that affordable battery storage, while promising, is not yet developed enough for use that would be needed in the Northwest to store energy for long periods. But it might be in a decade, he said.

Replacing the benefits of the dams would be expensive.

Rep. Mike Simpson, R-Idaho, floated a plan in 2021 that estimated it would take more than $30 billion to mitigate the damage to the region if the Snake dams were torn down.

While that proposal has not moved forward, the Washington state House and Senate proposed budget would pay for new studies to look at replacing the benefits of the dams.

Removing the dams is about more than saving salmon, Smith said.

It is about creating infrastructure to carry the inland Northwest into the 22nd Century for the next 100 years, he said.

Climate change is altering precipitation patterns to less snowfall in winter and more spring rain, he said. That changes the ability of hydrosystems to produce power at some times of peak demand, he said.

The Northwest needs to diversify its energy production and the federal government needs to modernize the electric grid, he said.

10 top endangered rivers

Rivers on the most endangered list for 2023 include:

Colorado River, Grand Canyon, for climate change and outdated water management. Ohio River for pollution and climate change. Pearl River, Miss., for dredging and dam construction. Snake River, Wash., Oregon and Idaho, four federal dams. Clark Fork River, Mont., for pulp mill pollution. Eel River, Calif., for dams. Lehigh River, Penn., for poorly planned development. Chilkat and Klehini rivers, Alaska, for mining. Rio Gallinas, N.M., for climate change and outdated forest and watershed management. Okefenokee Swamp, Ga. and Fla., for mining.

The rivers were picked based on their significance to people and wildlife, the magnitude of the threat and whether the public could influence their futures.
Humza Yousaf has refused to suspend Nicola Sturgeon and other senior figures embroiled in the police investigation into the SNP's finances - Jane Barlow/PA

Humza Yousaf is facing a mounting SNP rebellion over his refusal to suspend Nicola Sturgeon and other senior figures embroiled in the police investigation into the party's finances, after its treasurer was arrested.

Mr Yousaf, the First Minister, has refused to suspend Colin Beattie, who was arrested on Tuesday morning - insisting that the party treasurer is innocent until proven guilty.

Kate Forbes and Ash Regan, Mr Yousaf's opponents in the recent bitter party leadership contest, both warned him that "decisive action" was needed to prevent the crisis wreaking more damage.

Ms Forbes, who only narrowly lost to Mr Yousaf, said the party would be "in trouble" if he failed to act and it was a "critical moment" that could see voter support evaporate ahead of next year's general election.

Ms Regan said party members involved in the police investigation should be suspended.

It comes after the arrest of Peter Murrell, the party's former chief executive and Ms Sturgeon's husband, earlier this month.

Mr Yousaf is also facing calls from the Scottish Tories to suspend Ms Sturgeon, who has not been questioned by police, after video footage emerged at the weekend of her trying to shut down scrutiny of the SNPs finances.

Police Scotland arrested Mr Beattie, who is also the MSP for Midlothian North and Musselburgh, at 8am on Tuesday as a suspect in connection with its investigation. He was questioned by detectives for around 12 hours.

The force issued a statement at 8.15pm saying that Mr Beattie had been released without charge pending further investigation, as previously happened with Mr Murrell. A report will be sent to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service.

The development wrecked Mr Yousaf's attempt to relaunch his government, overshadowing a major policy speech at Holyrood outlining his political priorities.

Speaking outside the Scottish Parliament chamber on Tuesday afternoon, Mr Yousaf said he was surprised by the arrest and that he didnt believe at all that the SNP was operating in a criminal manner under his leadership.

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Mr Beattie was party treasurer for most of Mr Murrells tenure as chief executive. He served in the post from 2004 until December 2020, until members elected MP Douglas Chapman, who had pledged to improve transparency.

Mr Beattie regained the role a few months later in June 2021, after Mr Chapman resigned claiming he had not been given the information he needed to carry out his duties.

Since July 2021, Police Scotland has been examining the SNPs handling of more than 600,000 in donations raised in 2017 for a second independence referendum.

Supporters made complaints when accounts lodged with Companies House in 2020 appeared to show the SNP only had 97,000 in the bank, despite the referendum never having been held.

Mr Murrell, who was the SNP chief executive for more than two decades before he quit last month, was arrested on April 5. The home he shares with Ms Sturgeon was raided by police.

He was released without charge pending further investigation.

Ms Forbes told a BBC Radio 4 programme, titled Leading Scotland Where?, broadcast on Wednesday night that allegations about the party's finances were "mind-blowing".

In her first broadcast interview since losing the leadership contest and Mr Murrell's arrest, the former SNP Finance Secretary said: "Right now people are watching with astonishment but they want to see leadership in dealing with it and resolving it."

"I think we need decisive action or we will be in trouble," she warned, arguing that voters were "watching extremely carefully" ahead of next year's general election.

She added: "We are at a pretty critical moment  and it will be the response and the reaction that determines how big a problem this is for the SNP."

Ms Regan, a former SNP community safety minister, told BBC Radio 4's World at One programme: I think if its found that people have been involved in something of this nature, that certainly until that can be cleared up, whether thats one way or the other, they should be suspended from the party.

I think this can be resolved with decisive action, and I think that action should be taken to restore confidence both of members of the SNP and the public as well.

Mr Yousaf refused to suspend Mr Beattie but added: Of course Im surprised that one of my colleagues has been arrested, its a very serious matter indeed.

Speaking during a visit to York University, Sir Keir Starmer, the Labour leader, said: After 16 years in power, it has descended to this - a real mess - and those being let down are Scottish voters, who are entitled to better than this.
Colin Beattie - Stuart Nicol

The SNP's treasurer has been released without charge, after he became the second figure in the party to be arrested in connection with a police investigation into the party's finances.

Colin Beattie was questioned by detectives on Tuesday, and Police Scotland later said that he had since been "released without charge pending further investigation". The force said a report would be prepared for the Crown Office.

The arrest of Mr Beattie, who is also the MSP for Midlothian North and Musselburgh, comes less than two weeks after Nicola Sturgeon's husband was arrested as part of the same investigation.

Peter Murrell, the former SNP chief executive, was questioned by officers on Wednesday, April 5 as officers searched the home the couple share. He was later released without charge, pending further inquiries.

Police Scotland have been looking into how more than 600,000 in donations to the party earmarked for an independence referendum had been used.

Humza Yousaf, the Scottish First Minister, said on Tuesday that he would not be speaking to his predecessor Nicola Sturgeon about the investigation.

"I haven't spoken to Nicola in the last couple of weeks, but I will get to speak to Nicola, I am certain I will," he said at Holyrood.

"But one thing Nicola and I will not be talking about is the police investigation. That would be wholly inappropriate."

However, Meghan Gallacher, the Scottish Tory deputy leader, said that Mr Yousaf should "tackle this scandal head on and prove he is his own man" by suspending both the former first minister and her husband.

"The SNP is in total meltdown," she said. "Its former chief executive and now its current treasurer have been arrested amid a police investigation into the party's finances.

"And leaked footage has shown Nicola Sturgeon trying to shut down scrutiny."

Her comments came after Craig Hoy, the Scottish Conservative chairman, called for Mr Beattie, Mr Murrell and Ms Sturgeon to be suspended from the SNP.

Story continues

Mr Hoy said: "This extremely serious matter is escalating by the day and everyone in the SNP has a duty to be as transparent as possible about what they knew and when."

But Mr Yousaf said it was a "really important point of natural law that people are presumed innocent until guilty".

He said he would consider the situation if charges are brought by police, saying if that was the case "we may well have to take that course of action".

The First Minister stated: "Of course if they are guilty I would take the appropriate action, whether that is suspension or going further than that.

"But it is really important due process takes place."

Earlier on Tuesday, Police Scotland confirmed Mr Beattie had been arrested "in connection with the ongoing investigation into the funding and finances of the Scottish National Party".

A report will be submitted to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, the force added.

An SNP spokesperson said: "We have no comment on a live police investigation."

Mr Beattie was the SNP's national treasurer between 2004 and 2020, losing the position to MP Douglas Chapman.

However, Mr Chapman quit the post in 2021, claiming he was not being given the required information to carry out the job.

Mr Beattie reclaimed the post soon afterwards, and reportedly told the party's ruling body on Saturday the SNP would struggle to balance the books - reports that have since been disputed by senior figures including former Westminster leader Ian Blackford.

There was no sign of police activity outside Mr Beattie's address in Dalkeith, Midlothian, on Tuesday morning, or outside his constituency office in the town.

Sir Keir Starmer, the Labour leader, said the SNP is in a "real mess".

"The SNP developments are deeply concerning," he said. "Obviously there is a criminal investigation going on, so there is only so much I can say.

"But after 16 years in power, it has descended to this - a real mess - and those being let down are Scottish voters, who are entitled to better than this."

Meanwhile, Anas Sarwar, the Scottish Labour leader, said the news of the arrest meant the SNP was no longer a functioning government.

"This is an SNP mired in scandal, mired in division, talking to themselves about themselves, and the crisis that now engulfs the SNP is not just an indication of how they govern their party, but also how they govern our country," he said.
AR-15-style guns hang on a store wall in Burbank, Calif in this photo from last year. Prosecutors have charged a Clay County business owner, Kristopher "Justin" Ervin, with violating federal gun laws by illegally selling devices to convert semiautomatic AR-15s into fully automatic machine guns.

Customers of an Orange Park business owner charged with selling illegal machine-gun conversion equipment told a federal jury Monday about curiosity and anxieties surrounding the devices they bought online.

Society is pretty fragile. If things were to go [toward] lawlessness, its better to be prepared than not prepared, said Joel Moya, a pharmacist who lived in Orange Park when he bought four items from AutoKeyCard.com in November 2020.

We had the riots. We had COVID. We live in a very fragile society. Its really frightening, said Moya, who paid $614 for the metal items, which could collectively could be cut into a total of 12 strips that prosecutors say could each make a separate semiautomatic AR-15 rifle fire round after round as a fully automatic machine gun.

Living now in Ocala, Moya testified as a gun-crime trial continued in Jacksonville for business owner Kristopher Justin Ervin and Matthew Hoover, a Wisconsin gun dealer who promoted Ervins devices on a YouTube channel about guns that has 179,000 subscribers.

Entrance to Jacksonville's federal courthouse.

Ervin and Hoover are charged with conspiracy and illegally transferring unregistered machine-gun conversion devices in violation of the National Firearms Act of 1934, a law that limited machine guns availability and regulated sales of them. Hoover promoted Auto Key Card, which he described on several YouTube postings as his channels sponsor, and witnesses Monday said they bought Ervins products after seeing them on Hoovers channel.

Ervin is also charged with a banking crime, financial structuring, and possession of unregistered conversion devices, which the law treats like unregistered machine guns.

Moya, who said a gaming interest grew into ownership of about 40 real-life firearms, described buying the items as novelties and said he did not cut them out.

Cross-examined by defense attorney Matthew LaRosiere, Moya said the devices were nice to have but not the route I would have taken if he had needed a machine gun. He noted that Auto Key Card items were designed for use only with AR-15s having a specific bolt carrier, the SP-1, pointing out how that limited its utility as a conversion device.

Story continues

A Mossberg 22 cal. AR-15 style rifle rests on a countertop at a Jacksonville gun shop in this 2016 photo. Federal prosecutors have charged Clay County business owner Kristopher "Justin" Ervin with violating federal gun laws by selling devices to convert rifles like this into fully automatic machine guns.

Later, Assistant U.S. Attorney David Mesrobian played a YouTube clip where Hoover described the SP-1 bolt carrier as being affordable and easy to come by.

Auto Key Card sold card-shaped strips of metal etched with lines that prosecutors say an agent at the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms and Explosives followed with a cutting tool to create a piece colloquially called a lightning link for converting a semiautomatic AR-15 into a machine gun.

Some items had stamped openings that let them be used as bottle openers or pen holders.

Jacksonville resident Darek Stennes bought a pen holder  a card wth a hole punched through it  from Auto Key Card for $42.

As a pen holder, I could say what it was and what it could be, said Stennes, an executive chef at a downtown club.

But Stennes, who grew up around guns and owns about 20 firearms, said he felt uneasy as he looked at the precision of the lines in the metal.

This graphic appeared on a website federal agents said Kristopher Ervin used to sell card-shaped strips of metal etched with a design that could convert a semiautomatic rifle into a machine gun. The patterson shown here is for a strip caryingthe pattern in three places.

The longer I looked at it and thought about it, the more uncomfortable I felt, said Stennes, who joined a friend who had also bought items in hiring an attorney and contacted authorities.

Stennes eventually cut up the items to make them unusable but held onto the ruined pieces.

I kept it just in case something came up, he told LaRosiere. I could prove that I actually destroyed it.

After hearing from Ervins customers, attorneys and U.S. District Judge Marcia Morales Howard resumed an earlier debate about defense efforts to argue the items Ervin and Hoover promoted werent covered by the National Firearms Act because they were designs on metal, not parts of a firearm.

Restating a position she has held since 2021, the judge said that was a question for jurors to decide, not her.

The jury has to decide whether the Auto Key Card falls within the statutory definition of a machine gun, Howard said.

This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: As Jacksonville machine-gun trial unfolds, customers recount purchases
South Carolina is having a moment. It has the nations best womens basketball program. It has not one but two people running for president.

South Carolina has a Republican lawmaker who suggests women wanting abortions should ignore court rulings prohibiting them, and another Republican lawmaker suggesting women who have abortions be put to death.

Democrats, in perhaps the only thing theyve done lately that made sense, have moved South Carolina atop its primary election calendar on the basis that it will be more representative than Iowa and New Hampshire. If you consider that majority-America is crazy, then mission accomplished.

Tim Rowland

But can I remind anyone that the last time South Carolina got this much attention was 1861, and for the health and well-being of our nation, 1861 warnt such a good year.

So maybe we can just pump the brakes on South Carolina.

When South Carolina seceded from the Union, Judge James Petigru remarked that his home state was too small for a republic and too large for an insane asylum."

South Carolina then was led by Sen. John C. Calhoun, a litigious nitpicker of whom it was said could never pen a successful love poem because every sentence he ever wrote began with whereas.

Calhoun was known as the cast iron man for his backbone, something that cannot be said of the states current senior senator, Lindsey Graham, who, when pressed to testify about his meddling in Georgia elections, sought the protective enjoinment of Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas.

Thomas, we now know, has his own issues, being accused of failing to report lavish gifts from a benefactor  something the justice said he was not aware he needed to do. Maybe Im coming at this from outer space, but  hes a judge, right? Isnt knowing the law, like, kind of his job? This would be like if Tom Brady came out tomorrow and said he never realized there was a rule against intentional grounding.

In a sugar-coated documentary, Thomas purports to be a simple man of the people, with a preference to hanging out in  I am not kidding  Walmart parking lots.

Story continues

So it must distress him terribly when he is, presumably against his will, jetted around the world to exotic vacation resorts by a far-right billionaire benefactor.

The latest: Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas has been reporting income from defunct real estate company: report

One of these resorts is Topridge, an Adirondack estate once owned by Marjorie Merriweather Post, better known for creating Mar-a-Lago.

A couple of years ago, I was sitting with the owner of a small hotel named Roger who claimed to have bought Topridge from the Post estate  also at the auction was some guy named Donald Trump, and rather than compete, the two decided to divide the spoils. Roger would take Topridge, while Trump got Mar-a-Lago.

Roger said he had made his money selling hot dogs, and done well enough to afford this transcendent lakeside Great Camp, a diamond of luxury in the middle of a remote wilderness.

Salted into his soliloquy were references to his friends Michael Jackson, President Gerald Ford et al., and a whole list of accomplishments and adventures too numerous to mention.

My contribution to the conversation was the assorted uh-huhs and um-hms of a disbelieving person who really has nothing to add to such a fantastic tale and is only hanging in there to see where this story would end up.

Free State politics: Maryland Senate confirms appointments of local residents to boards and commissions

By this time we were low on coffee, so I followed him into a cluttered motel office to refill. He continued to chatter away, but I wasnt hearing any of it because I was too busy noticing all the pictures on the wall with Roger hanging out with Michael Jackson, Jerry Ford, Elvis and a truly incredible cast of famous characters.

Later, hunting through Wikipedia, I found that Roger had indeed owned Topridge for a while, something that ultimately proved too overwhelming for his tastes. Unlike Thomas, he really was more of a Walmart parking lot kind of guy.

Tim Rowland is a Herald-Mail columnist.

This article originally appeared on The Herald-Mail: Palmetto State, Supreme Court justice getting their 'moments'
Some parts of South Florida were dealing with major gas supply issues after a storm last week brought torrential rain and flooding to the region, causing fuel delivery delays.

A staggering 59% of all gas stations in the Miami and Fort Lauderdale area were out of fuel at one point Tuesday, along with another 21% of gas stations in West Palm Beach, according to fuel tracker GasBuddy.com. Some of those shortages were the result of a "panic buying spree, which overwhelmed the system," said Patrick De Haan, head of Gasbuddy's petroleum analysis.

He said that there were still "millions of gallons of gasoline still waiting to be delivered." De Haan estimated it would take about a week for things to get back to normal.

Lamar P. Fisher, mayor of Broward County  which includes Fort Lauderdale  said in a statement Monday that "the loading and delivering of petroleum products" was "disrupted on April 12 during the unprecedented storm that flooded greater Fort Lauderdale."

Vehicles line up to get fuel at a gas station on April 17, 2023 in Miami, Florida. / Credit: Getty Images

Fisher said that, as of Monday, three fuel tankers were in port at Port Everglades, and another five were "offshore waiting to unload."

"Fuel supply arriving at Port Everglades remains sufficient and deliveries to the consumers are anticipated to increase at a regular pace over the next few days," Fisher said.

He also called on drivers not to panic buy.

"There is no need to panic or rush to the pumps," Fisher said.

The Florida Division of Emergency Management on Tuesday said that the State Emergency Response Team was sending 500,000 gallons of fuel to Southeast Florida and that the first trucks should be arriving by Tuesday night.

Many residents were left scouring the region for gas, and on Tuesday, there were long lines of cars waiting to fill up at those stations which did have fuel.

Ramario Castillo told CBS News he was hoping he wouldn't have to push his vehicle, which was sitting on empty as he waited in line, into a gas station.

Story continues

"You know, it's really crazy, the anxiety it gives," driver Eduardo Travieso told CBS Miami. "Like, last night, I was driving all over the place. Like, I work this morning, I'm supposed to be at work already."

Last week's storm brough more than two feet of rain to part of Fort Lauderdale, with the ensuing flooding leaving many residents stranded in their homes. It forced the closure of Broward County Public Schools, one of the largest school districts in the nation, and also shuttered Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport for about two days.

 Manuel Bojorquez contributed reporting.

Black people live longer in counties with more Black doctors, study finds

Ceasefire lasts mere minutes before fighting resumes in Sudan

Dominion Voting Systems' lead attorney breaks down Fox News settlement
A man reads a copy of the Juba Monitor, with a heading referring to the killing of South Sudanese journalist Peter Moi of The New Nation newspaper, on August 21, 2015 in Juba

Journalists work under constant threat and intimidation in South Sudan and media freedom is precarious, says human rights NGO Reporters Without Borders (RSF).

The government has threatened and detained journalists over reports it does not like and the security services have seized print runs of newspapers. Defamation is criminalised.

There is rampant corruption, and there are atrocities against civilians, journalists, and aid workers, says US-based NGO Freedom House.

Radio is the most popular medium. Private stations, some with foreign funding, operate alongside the state-run South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC).

The Catholic Church and Internews, a US-based media development organisation, are key players in non-state radio. BBC World Service broadcasts to Juba on 90 FM (Arabic) and 88.2 FM (English).

Though expensive for many locals, newspapers rank second to radio in popularity. Most publish in English and are printed in Uganda or Kenya.

State TV has little competition. The development of TV is hindered by poverty and a limited electricity and telecoms infrastructure.

There were 900,000 internet users by December 2021, comprising just 7.5% of the population (Internetworldstats.com). Access to online media that report opposition views has been blocked. Facebook is the most-used platform, with 436,000 users by April 2022.

Press

Juba Monitor - daily

Al-Masir (Destiny) - Arabic daily

Radio

SSBC (South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation) - state-run

Eye Radio - funded by US government aid body, USAID

Radio Miraya - operated by UN Mission in Sudan and Swiss NGO Fondation Hirondelle

Bakhita Radio - Catholic

Capital FM - privately-owned, from Juba

Radio Tamazuj - independent radio news station covering Sudan and South Sudan

Television

SSBC (South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation) - state-run

Online
DALLAS (AP)  Southwest Airlines planes were briefly grounded nationwide Tuesday for what the airline called an intermittent technology issue, leading to more than 2,200 delayed flights just four months after the carrier suffered a much bigger meltdown over the Christmas travel rush.

The hold on departures was lifted by mid-morning Eastern time, according to Southwest and the Federal Aviation Administration, but not before traffic at airports from Denver to New York City backed up.

Southwest has resumed operations after temporarily pausing flight activity this morning to work through data connection issues resulting from a firewall failure, the Dallas-based airline said in a prepared statement. Early this morning, a vendor-supplied firewall went down and connection to some operational data was unexpectedly lost.

Southwest urged customers to check on their flight status and explore self-service options for travel as the airline worked on restoring its operation.

By late afternoon on the East Coast, more than half of all Southwest flights were delayed, and the airline accounted for half of all delays nationwide. On the positive side, Southwest had only about a dozen flights canceled, roughly in line with other major airlines, according to FlightAware.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg retweeted an FAA post about the ground stop, adding, We are here to ensure passengers have strong protections when airline failures like this affect their plans. He referred travelers to a Transportation Department checklist of passenger rights, and his press secretary noted that no other airlines experienced disruptions.

Tuesday's delays added to the picture of an airline that has struggled more than most with technology issues.

It was a 17-minute ground stop. This will have no long-lasting affect on Southwests reputation, said Henry Harteveldt, a travel analyst with Atmosphere Research Group. What matters now for Southwest is getting to the cause and doing all it can to ensure incidents like this dont occur again.

Story continues

Rob Britton, a former American Airlines executive who teaches crisis management at Georgetown University, said the damage from Tuesday's incident will be minor but will add to the erosion of Southwests image. He said Southwest has underinvested in technology while growing rapidly, and it suffers from an insular culture" that "keeps them from looking outside for solutions."

In December, Southwest canceled nearly 17,000 flights in a 10-day stretch around Christmas  wrecking holiday travel plans for well over 2 million people  when a winter storm shut down its operations in Denver and Chicago and the airline's system for rescheduling pilots and flight attendants was overwhelmed.

Those cancellations cost the airline more than $1 billion and led to an ongoing Transportation Department investigation and a congressional hearing during which lawmakers complained that Southwest provided little or no help to stranded travelers.

Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., who led that hearing, said Tuesday's breakdown is another demonstration that Southwest Airlines needs to upgrade their systems and stop the negative impacts to individual travelers.

The airlines unions have said they warned management about problems with the crew-scheduling system after a previous meltdown in October 2021.

CEO Robert Jordan has embarked on a campaign to repair the airline's damaged reputation. Southwest said last month it would add deicing equipment and increase staffing during winter weather that is cold enough to limit the amount of time that ground workers can stay outside.

Shares of Southwest Airlines Co. fell Tuesday nearly 1% while its closest rivals  American, Delta and United  all gained at least 1.5%.
BARCELONA, Spain (AP)  Authorities in Spains parched northeast warned Tuesday that Barcelona and a wide surrounding area that's home to some 6 million people could face even tighter restrictions of water use in the coming months.

Samuel Reyes, head of Catalonias Water Agency that manages water resources for the area encompassing Barcelona and other smaller cities in Spains northeastern corner, said the area would likely be declared in a drought emergency by September unless forecasts for scant rain prove incorrect.

Unless it rains in the spring and summer, there wont be any increases in the reservoirs and we will enter a stage of emergency for the Llobregat river system sometime around September, Reyes said.

The Ter-Llobregat river system provides the main water supply for Barcelona, Girona and other smaller towns and villages. Spains government said Tuesday that its reservoirs, along with others in northern Catalonia, have shrunk to 27% of capacity. Only the reservoirs connected to the Guadalquivir river basin in southern Andalusia are worse off, at 26% of capacity.

Reyes said many of Catalonias rivers are at historic lows after a drought that has broken all records for the region and forced authorities to start limiting water use for agriculture and industry last year. Town halls have also been asked to stop filling public fountains, and limits on other uses are in place. There is an open debate now about whether or not to fill swimming pools in the summer, with many cities saying they are ideal climate shelters.

In an extraordinary effort to save every last drop of water, authorities successfully moved some 13 cubic hectometers of water from Catalonia's Sau reservoir in recent weeks. In order to ensure the quality of water and avoid a massive die-off of fish, authorities culled 4,000 fish belonging to invasive species. Reyes' agency said on Tuesday that that process had concluded.

Sau is now one of three reservoirs that Catalonias firefighters have said they will no longer be able to use to reload water to fight wildfires. Most of Spain is bracing for a difficult wildfire season with forests dry and temperatures expected to remain high after a record-hot 2022.

Story continues

Drought has become the principle concern of this country, said Patricia Plaja, spokeswoman for the Catalan government.

Under current restrictions, Catalonia's cities are limited to using 230 liters of water per person per day, including personal use as well as what the town hall uses per inhabitant for services like street cleaning. That would drop to 200 liters per day under the emergency phase of Catalonias drought plan. The water agency says that the average person consumes some 116 liters per day for domestic use.

Catalonias government is proposing regional legislation that would allow it to impose fines on cities that use too much water.

Catalonia faced a severe drought in 2008 and used tankers to ship in water for Barcelona. Reyes told The Associated Press recently that his agency would not recommend for that method to be used again, nor would it back a possible rerouting of water from the much larger basin of the Ebro river in Catalonia's south.

___

Follow APs climate and environment coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/climate-and-environment
Springfield Police are investigating a homicide that occurred Monday leaving one teen dead.

Just before 7 p.m., police responded to a report of someone who had been shot in a vehicle at the intersection of Forest Avenue and Calhoun Street. A male passenger and female driver both had multiple gunshot wounds.

The male victim, Lavelle C. Rose III, 18, from East St. Louis, Illinois, was pronounced dead on scene. Roses family has been notified.

The female was transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

More: Police chief shares notable milestone: 'No one was shot' in Springfield in all of February

A suspect has not been identified in this case.

Detectives continue to investigate and are asking anyone with information about this incident to contact the Springfield Police Department at 417-864-1810 or make an anonymous call to Crime Stoppers at 417-869-TIPS (8477).

This incident is Springfields third homicide investigation in 2023.

This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Springfield police investigate homicide that left one teen dead
Editor's note: Justin Lynch is a researcher and analyst in Washington, DC. He is co-author of the book "Sudan's Unfinished Democracy." The views expressed here are his own. Read more opinion at CNN.

(CNN)  Four years ago, almost to the day, the people of Sudan were celebrating a revolution after overthrowing longtime dictator Omar al-Bashir. Now the East African country faces the possibility of a complete collapse similar to the chaos we see today in Yemen or Libya.

On Saturday, rival military factions began fighting each other in the capital of Khartoum. The two sides battled for control of the nation's airports, bases and military compounds. Violence quickly spilled into the streets and across the country.

Some 45 million Sudanese effectively are held hostage and are unable to venture out of their homes for fear of being killed in the crossfire. At least 180 people have perished in the fighting, including three World Food Programme humanitarian workers.

The conflict pits two bitter rivals and their powerful armed forces against each other. On one side are the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), led by Gen. Abdel Fattah al-Burhan. On the other side are the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group led by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemeti.

There is no good side in this conflict. Both have been accused of a long litany of human rights violations.

How did Sudan go from casting off despotic rule and creating a fledgling democracy a few years ago to teetering on the brink of state collapse?

Revolution lost

On April 11, 2019, Sudan's longtime dictator, Bashir, was overthrown. The cause of Bashir's removal was months of protests led by Sudan's unions, which spurred a military coup from the SAF and RSF. Both Burhan and Hemeti joined forces to remove their former boss.

It was a moment of promise because there was hope for democracy. I remember walking around the "sit-in"  a giant carnival of freedom in the middle of Khartoum that protesters had blocked off to demand change. It was electric.

But social movements such as the Sudanese Professionals Association (SPA)  the union behind the protest  often struggle to translate the momentum of their demonstrations into real political power.

The reason for this is, in part, structural. Social movements such as the SPA are often based on grassroots activism. A dictator can arrest one or two leaders of an organization but not an entire country.

However, once a dictator is overthrown, these kinds of social movements often struggle to build the leadership hierarchy necessary during political negotiations that take place. Like many other movements, Sudan's protesters were unable to translate mobilization into political power.

Civilian leaders entered into a negotiation with the military over the future of the country shortly after Bashir fell in April 2019. The two sides were not evenly matched. Because of these leadership challenges, the pro-democracy forces struggled to bargain with the disciplined military.

Any momentum that pro-democracy advocates had during the negotiations was stamped out in June 2019 when RSF soldiers violently dispersed the sit-in. More than 100 people were killed.

After the June massacre and the leadership challenges, a transitional constitution was signed in August 2019 that gave the SAF and RSF most of the power in Sudan. Burhan was the head of state, and Hemeti was placed in an elevated political position. Elections were promised in 2022, but few believed they would actually happen.

A legacy of autocracy

The transitional period began in August 2019, and I interviewed Abdalla Hamdok, the civilian prime minister, several times for a book that I co-wrote on Sudan's revolution. The way that the constitution was written meant that Hamdok had limited power as the prime minister. Burhan was the head of state and wanted to preserve the powers of the SAF.

Hamdok often told me that revolutions come in cycles. The 2019 removal of Bashir was a high point of revolution, and he saw his job as making as many reforms as possible before the low tide of counterrevolution swept him away.

Hamdok found that the legacy of 30 years of dictatorship meant that Sudan's political and economic models were dilapidated. But Burhan and Hemeti blocked the big reforms that Hamdok wanted to make.

Outside Khartoum violence grew. Parts of Sudan such as Darfur saw a new round of conflict between ethnic groups orchestrated by RSF troops. More than 430,000 people were displaced due to conflict in Sudan, mostly in Darfur.

Soldiers did not hide the atrocities they committed against civilians. I remember drinking tea with a soldier aligned with the RSF at his house in Darfur as he explained why he had recently participated in the burning down of a village from another ethnic group.

The soldier reasoned that a member of his tribe had been killed in an altercation, so the RSF-aligned forces took revenge by torching a village that had been home to 30,000 people. At least 163 people died.

Tensions between the SAF and RSF grew. Burhan viewed Hemeti and his RSF forces as upstart usurpers from Darfur who were undisciplined. Hemeti on the other hand believed that it was time for Darfur to lead Sudan.

Hamdok was on the cusp of beginning to turn the economy around when Burhan and the SAF intervened. As we wrote in the book "Sudan's Unfinished Democracy," the potential success of a civilian government was too much for Burhan. In October 2021, Hamdok was removed in a military coup.

International delusion

After the October 2021 coup, the United States and United Nations pushed a worse version of the transitional constitution in Sudan. They argued that it was the best way to bring democracy.

The idea was to restart the transitional period, but I and many others argued it was shortsighted and wouldn't work. Returning to a government led by Burhan was clearly not going to usher in democracy. If the plan ended in a coup the first time, why would it work the second time?

Some activists stopped partnering with the US and came to see the UN mission as a roadblock to democracy because of these policies. I felt sorry when I spoke with the best American and foreign diplomats, who also understood the international policy in Sudan wouldn't work. They saw the flaws but felt powerless to dissent and were forced to carry out decisions made many levels above them.

What preceded this weekend's outbreak of clashes was a controversial part of the international policy that tried to unify the SAF and RSF. The idea was to make a single army, but neither Hemeti nor Burhan wanted to give up the power they had amassed.

The plan to unify the military hadn't worked in similar contexts. It was a repeat of the 2013 and 2016 unification processes that took place in South Sudan with similarly bloody results. Instead, the tenuous relationship between Burhan and Hemeti boiled over due to the pressure.

What's next?

It can be easy to look at the recent history of "revolutions" in countries such as Myanmar, Tunisia, Egypt and Sudan and conclude that they eventually backfire. I don't agree. I learned from Sudanese activists that a nation's political fortune is an active battle.

We can one day hope that Sudan sees dreams of democracy come true. But right now, the Sudanese people are just hoping to survive the day.

The lesson from Sudan is that a revolution is only the start of change, not the end.

This article was first published on CNN.com, "Opinion: How did Sudan go from casting off despotic rule to this?"
By Uditha Jayasinghe

COLOMBO (Reuters) - Sri Lanka is considering a proposal by a Chinese private company to export 100,000 endemic monkeys to China, a government minister said on Tuesday, sparking protests from animal protection groups.

The island's agriculture minister has appointed a committee to evaluate the proposal to export 100,000 toque macaques, found only in Sri Lanka, to be displayed in zoos in China, Cabinet Spokesperson and Transport Minister Bandula Gunawardana said.

"This is not a discussion between the Sri Lankan government and the Chinese government but with a Chinese company," Gunawardana told reporters at a weekly briefing, without naming the company. "The committee will evaluate the proposal."

The move has alarmed environmentalists and conservationists who have warned the monkeys could be headed to labs rather than zoos, even if it earns some scarce dollars for the country facing its worst economic crisis in more than seven decades.

The organisations say China has only about 18 zoos, which would have to house about 5,000 monkeys at each.

"Macaques, with their human-like qualities have been particularly popular, especially with medical testing facilities in the USA and Europe. The potential income from such a trade would be far greater than that from the sale of this species to zoos," four conservation organisations said in a joint statement. "Is this where these macaques are headed?"

They demanded the proposal be discarded and toque macaque habitats be protected. They also want the government to allocate resources to study the monkeys' behaviour and reduce harvest losses, which is a reason cited by the agriculture ministry to consider capturing and exporting the animals.

(Reporting by Uditha Jayasinghe; Editing by Raju Gopalakrishnan)
Ralph Yarl survived being shot after approaching the wrong house in Missouri

Two recent cases of unarmed people being shot and killed in the US have renewed discussion of so-called "stand your ground" laws.

In the past week, 16-year-old Ralph Yarl was shot twice after ringing the doorbell of the wrong home and 20-year-old Kaylin Gillis died after being shot upon entering the wrong driveway.

The shootings have prompted questions about a person's rights to protect themselves and their property in the US - and when a person can use deadly force in self defence.

The answer depends on where you live.

What is a stand your ground law?

A stand your ground law is enacted at state level and most of these permit an individual to protect themselves with the use of reasonable force, including deadly force, to prevent death or great bodily harm.

Stand your ground laws echo the common law "castle doctrine" principle, which does not carry a "duty to retreat" when a person feels they must defend their home.

The duty to retreat, or an obligation to step back and avoid confrontation where possible, is removed under most stand your ground laws, dubbed "shoot first" laws by critics.

The laws began to appear in states after a bill featuring the language "has the right to stand his or her ground" was introduced in Florida in 2005.

When defendants use a stand your ground law to defend their actions, often the case centres on whether or not their use of force meets the standard for "reasonable", given the perceived threat.

Some laws refer to "deadly force", defined as the amount of force which a reasonable person would deem likely to cause death, or serious bodily harm, to another person, according to Cornell University.

How many states have stand your ground laws?

Versions of stand your ground laws are in effect in at least 28 states - including Missouri where Ralph Yarl was shot - and Puerto Rico.

The states include: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah and West Virginia Wyoming.

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In these states, there is no duty to retreat from an attacker.

In Missouri, a person does not have a duty to retreat from their private property. An 84-year-old man has been charged first-degree assault and armed criminal action over Ralph Yarl's shooting.

Eight other states - California, Colorado, Illinois, New Mexico, Oregon, Virginia, Vermont and Washington - permit the use of deadly force in self defence.

New York state, where Ms Gillis was shot as the car she was in pulled into the wrong driveway, does not have a stand your ground law, and imposes a broad duty to retreat.

But its state law also introduces the castle doctrine in certain circumstances. A man has been charged with second-degree murder over the Ms Gillis' death.

The impact of stand your ground laws

Statistics show that states with stand your ground laws have seen a rise in homicides by 10% or higher.

John Roman, director of the Center on Public Safety and Justice at NORC at the University of Chicago, authored a study examining 53,019 cases involving stand your ground laws.

He told the BBC that they "promote violence".

"People feel like they have an added protection that makes them more likely to shoot where they wouldn't have shot without that perceived protection," he said.

It also "tragically" increases racial disparities in the US criminal justice system, he said.

Data from the report showed that, when the shooter is white and the victim is black, the white shooter is 10 times more likely to have their actions deemed justified than when the shooter is black and the victim is white.

The study found that, in cases where stand your ground laws featured, 11.4% of white-on-black homicides were ruled as justified, compared to just 1.2% of black-on-white homicides.

Well-known cases related to stand your ground

The death of unarmed 17-year-old Trayvon Martin in Florida in 2012 thrust conversations around the principle behind stand your ground into the national spotlight.

Lawyers for neighbourhood watchman George Zimmerman, 29, said he acted in self-defence with justifiable use of deadly force. He was acquitted of all charges.

The case sparked a fierce debate about racial profiling in the US and spontaneous protest marches were staged overnight in cities such as San Francisco, Philadelphia, Chicago, Washington DC and Atlanta.

In another prominent case, Ahmaud Arbery, a 25-year-old black male, was fatally gunned down by three white men while jogging through a Georgia neighbourhood, unarmed. The men tried to justify their actions by citing stand your ground laws.

However, they were unsuccessful and were convicted of felony murder among other charges.
Neighbours is returning less than a year after its final episode was axed  and one special guest star has already been announced.

The Australian soap originally aired from 1985 to 2022, but came to an end in July. However, in November, it was announced that the show was being rebooted by Amazon Freevee.

With production kicking off on Monday (17 April), it has now been announced that The OC star Mischa Barton will make an appearance in the new series.

Barton will arrive in the fictional Melbourne suburb of Erinsborough as Reece, an American who is new to the area and not quite who she appears to be.

Speaking about joining the soap, Barton, 37, said: Im excited to be part of this iconic shows next chapter, and I am really looking forward to being back in Australia, a place I know and love!

I think the character of Reece is going to be a great role for me to explore and play with.

The final episode of Neighbours on Channel 5 aired in July 2022 when the soap failed to secure new funding after being dropped by the broadcaster.

Despite its initial axing, the long-running show has been revived by streaming site Amazon Freevee and production company Fremantle, with a new series to begin on the service in the autumn.

We are excited to announce Mischa Barton will be joining the #Neighbours cast as a guest star, playing the character Reece, an American new to Erinsborough whos not quite who she appears to be... pic.twitter.com/Ys0iHnYKCA  Neighbours (@neighbours) April 17, 2023

Neighbours executive producer Jason Herbison said: With Neighbours launching on Amazon Freevee in north America, we are beyond excited to have an actor of Mischas calibre join us for the beginning of this exciting new chapter.

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Mischas character is dynamic and unpredictable, and will have an instant presence on Ramsay Street. Our loyal viewers are going to love her, locally and abroad.

Barton is best known for her portrayal of Marissa Cooper on Noughties teen drama The OC , but has also appeared in a number of films, including Lawn Dogs and The Sixth Sense.

The London-born actress has also starred in a variety of stage productions, including Where The Truth Lies, Twelve Dreams, and One Flea Spare.

The forthcoming Neighbours reboot will see the return of a number of recognisable on-screen characters including Susan and Karl Kennedy, Toadie Rebecchi and Paul Robinson.

The revitalised series will premiere free of charge on Amazon Freevee in the UK and US, with the site also streaming thousands of Neighbours episodes from previous series. It will be broadcast on Prime Video in Australia, New Zealand and Canada.

Additional reporting by Press Association
Daisy Ridley as Rey in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker. (Lucasfilm/Disney)

At Star Wars Celebration 2023 Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy announced three new Star Wars movies, one of which will see the return of Rey Skywalker, played by Daisy Ridley.

The franchise has been focused on the small screen in since 2019's The Rise of Skywalker, with all eyes of shows like The Mandalorian, Andor, and Obi-Wan Kenobi.

Now however, fans can cast their eyes to the future with a bit more clarity on where the cinematic side of Star Wars is heading.

Read more: Every Star Wars movie and show currently in development

But now the film has been announced, what will it be about? And when might we be seeing it?

Heres everything you need to know about Daisy Ridleys return to Star Wars.

Possible release date for Daisy Ridley's new Star Wars movie

Dave Filoni, Daisy Ridley and Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy onstage during the studio panel at the Star Wars Celebration 2023. (Kate Green/Getty Images for Disney)

An official release date for Rey's return has not been announced yet, but this shouldnt come as a surprise given the recent upheaval behind the scenes, with Damon Lindelof leaving the project and Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight stepping in to work on the script.

While no release date was offered, speaking exclusively to Yahoo UK, Kennedy did point out that the script was close to being finished, saying, Weve just got to a point now where weve got a wonderful writer in Steven Knight, hes come on board and were going to see a script probably in the next month and a half that weve been working on for quite a while. So were getting close.

Read more: Star Wars: Behind Lucasfilms (mostly) risk-averse movie bets (Hollywood Reporter, 7 min read)

It's rumoured to be the most likely Star Wars movie to hit the big screen next, with Disney having staked a claim to a December 2025 release date for an untitled Star Wars film.

Daisy Ridley's Rey movie plot

Daisy Ridley as Rey in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker. (Lucasfilm/Disney)

The story will take place 15 years after the events of Episode IX as Rey Skywalker attempts to build and train a New Jedi Order.

Speaking to IGN at Star Wars Celebration, Kennedy said, Well were 15 years out from Rise of Skywalker, so were post-war, post-First Order, and the Jedi are in disarray.

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"Theres a lot of discussion around, Who are the Jedi? What are they doing? Whats the state of the galaxy? She (Rey) is attempting to rebuild the Jedi Order, based on the books, based on what she promised Luke, so thats where were going.

Read more: What's going on with the Star Wars movies?

The New Jedi Order is uncharted territory for the existing canon of Star Wars under the Disney banner, but it does have significant roots in the now de-canonised Expanded Universe books.

Daisy Ridley as Rey with Mark Hamill as Luke Skywalker in Star Wars: The Last Jedi. (Lucasfilm/Disney)

Published between 1999 and 2003, the books follow Luke Skywalkers New Jedi Order, along with the New Republic, as they fight off the threat of the Yuuzhan Vong  a race of nomadic aliens seeking to take over the galaxy.

Whether the upcoming film takes any story beats from these books or opts for a wholly original story remains to be seen.

Who will star alongside Daisy Ridley in Rey's return?

Daisy Ridley's Rey was supported on her journey by Chewbacca, BB8, C-3PO, Poe Dameron (Oscar Isaac) and Finn (John Boyega) in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker. (Lucasfilm/Disney)

Daisy Ridley will be making her return as Rey Skywalker, last seen in The Rise of Skywalker. It is unclear if her sequel trilogy co-stars Oscar Isaac and John Boyega will be joining her.

Speaking with Variety at Star Wars Celebration, Kathleen Kennedy spoke about Ridleys excitement to return to the franchise, saying that she was out of her mind excited.

She went on to elaborate on Ridleys attendance at the convention, It was a pretty straightforward phone call. I started out by just saying, Hey, I think were getting near being ready.

"Weve been talking a lot about what were doing in the movie space, and I said, I think were getting close to being ready. How would you like to go to Celebration? That was really the beginning of it. She was out of her mind excited.

Daisy Ridley as Rey in Star Wars: The Last Jedi. (Lucasfilm/Disney)

No other cast details are known at this time, however there is a chance that we might be seeing Grogu, with the story taking place about 45 years after the events of The Mandalorian, and the focus being on a New Jedi Order.

Read more: Everything we know about Skeleton Crew

This would put Grogu at around 90 years of age  the same age in which Master Yoda became a Jedi Knight in the current canon.

Whos directing?

Daisy Ridley and Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy attend the studio panel at Star Wars Celebration 2023. (Jeff Spicer/Getty Images for Disney)

Documentarian Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, who most recently worked on the Disney+ Ms. Marvel series will be helming the untitled project, based on a script by Steven Knight, who took over from Damon Lindelof and Justin Britt-Gibson.

The Pakistani-Canadian filmmaker has won two Academy Awards for documentary shorts, and brings a humanistic style to a galaxy far, far away.

Obaid-Chinoy will also mark the first woman to helm a Star Wars project, as well as the first person of colour.

Is there a trailer for Daisy Ridley's Star Wars return?

There is no trailer for the project and its unlikely there will be one for the foreseeable future until production gets underway.

Watch: The biggest reveals from Star Wars: Celebration
SpaceX is finally launching its Mars-bound Starship craft into orbit.

But the first attempt has been postponed after a pressurisation issue caused the company to pull the launch with just minutes to go.

Now the world is waiting for the announcement of a new date, after SpaceX has investigated the issue and how quickly it can be available to launch again.

Eventually, SpaceX hopes to use the spacecraft to explore the Moon and Mars. But for now it will complete a short orbital flight, lifting up into space and then falling back down.

You can follow all the latest news and updates right here as SpaceX attempts to launch the largest rocket the world has ever seen.

Key points

Everything you need to know about todays launch

... and how to watch live

How big is Starship?

What will Starship do?

Full story on todays postponement

Monday 17 April 2023 14:52 , Andrew Griffin

Heres the full rundown on what happened today (and, notably, what didnt).

Elon Musk reacts to cancellation  and says new attempt will be a few days'

Monday 17 April 2023 14:31 , Andrew Griffin

Elon Musk, who had been pessimistic about the chances of a successful launch today, says that lessons have been learned from todays launch.

We still dont know when the next launch will be but he says a few days.

Learned a lot today, now offloading propellant, retrying in a few days   Elon Musk (@elonmusk) April 17, 2023

(Sorry to keep going on about this, but 4/20 is just a few days away...)

SpaceX expecting a minimum of 48 hours before it can go again

Monday 17 April 2023 14:20 , Andrew Griffin

Weve not got a new date for the launch. But SpaceX says it will be at least 48 hours.

(That takes us very close to Thursday, which is 4/20 and one of Elon Musks favourite dates.)

The extra delay is because it got very close to the launch, so theres more to reverse.

Story continues

Countdown happening as usual

Monday 17 April 2023 14:18 , Andrew Griffin

With five minutes to go, everything looks like the launch is continuing. Thats because the wet dress rehearsal is a real rehearsal: everything is happening as it would on the day.

(SpaceX)

Todays launch will probably not happen, SpaceX announces

Monday 17 April 2023 14:14 , Andrew Griffin

The pressurisation issue means that the plan is to treat today like a wet dress rehearsal. So it will still continue with the countdown, but wont actually take off at the very end.

That wont be confirmed right until the end: at any point up to T-10 seconds, SpaceX can decide that they will press go instead.

10 minutes left to launch

Monday 17 April 2023 14:10 , Andrew Griffin

Were now in single-digit minutes. Launch is schedule for 10 minutes from now.

(No update on those issues mentioned below, however.)

SpaceX dealing with pressurisation issue'

Monday 17 April 2023 14:05 , Andrew Griffin

Sensors have detected a problem with pressurisation on the rocket, SpaceX says. Engineers are working to fix it.

If they cant, then they can hold the count. But theyd be likely to treat todays launch as a dress rehearsal and use another of the launch windows.

In the meantime, the rocket is still being loaded with its propellant.

(Theres also still one boat in the way, SpaceX said. The coastguard are working to move it.)

Weather is good  but SpaceX is watching for winds

Monday 17 April 2023 13:58 , Andrew Griffin

Everything is looking good for the launch so far, SpaceX said. Weather is nice, and the range has been almost entirely cleared of boats.

The only thing it is watching is for winds, which are currently fine but could pick up later in the window.

If something does go wrong today, then SpaceX will have the option of postponing and trying again in 24 or 48 hours. Which of those they choose will depend on how far they get through the countdown.

Monday 17 April 2023 13:52 , Andrew Griffin

Here on this imagery from SpaceX, you can see how much of the rocket is made up of Starship itself, the actual spacecraft that humans could one day use to fly to the Moon.

(SpaceX)

The rest is made of the the Super Heavy booster. That will drop off early in the mission and drop into the water. (Usually it would aim to land again for re-use, but SpaceX has decided this test is already ambitious enough and it wont be doing that this time around.)

Both of those pieces have been tested, to various degrees, before. But todays launch will be the first time that the two of them have been attached together and then shot into space.

Starship soars above the ground

Monday 17 April 2023 13:49 , Andrew Griffin

The rocket is standing proud on its pad in south Texas. Were seeing some stunning images of it as morning arrives, with just over half an hour to go.

(SpaceX)

(SpaceX)

(SpaceX has noted that the view wont be quite as good once the rocket sets off; at home on the launchpad, there are a whole load of cameras available to look at, but the live coverage will become a little less spectacular once the journey begins.)

Musk sounds confident

Monday 17 April 2023 13:37 , Andrew Griffin

Elon Musk has tweeted about proceedings. Its notable less for the update everything is proceeding on schedule  but more the fact that he sounds confident we will get liftoff.

Cryogenic propellant load of Starship is underway, liftoff in T minus 1 hour  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) April 17, 2023

Yesterday he said there was a good chance that the launch will be postponed. (It still very much could be, of course.)

Fueling begins

Monday 17 April 2023 13:34 , Andrew Griffin

The Super Heavy booster is now getting fueled up, SpaceX says. (This is important for at least a couple of reasons: the fuel is obviously required to lift off the ground, but it also turns the rocket into a much more dangerous thing should anything go wrong.)

SpaceX sets new target time

Monday 17 April 2023 12:54 , Andrew Griffin

SpaceX is now targeting 8.20am local time, or 2.20pm in the UK, it has said in a tweet.

Tim Peake says launch will herald a new era of deep space exploration'

Monday 17 April 2023 11:50 , Andrew Griffin

British astronaut Tim Peake is excited about todays launch. He says it will be responsible for a new era of deep space exploration.

SpaceX really is thinking big with Starship. This is the biggest and most powerful rocket ever built. But its ambition goes way beyond its gargantuan size: it is hoped that the rocket will herald a new era of deep space exploration, unlocking the potential for humans to visit other planets, he said.

This programme could be the launchpad for hugely exciting scientific research. Im convinced that collaboration with commercial operators like SpaceX is vital for pushing the boundaries and enabling this new era of deep space exploration.

Animation shows route of spacecraft as it flies around the Earth

Monday 17 April 2023 10:58 , Andrew Griffin

Heres a neat little animation showing the journey that Starship will take when (or if) it lifts off today. You can see the two parts splitting, then the spacecraft making its way all around the Earth before splashing down in the sea.

Starship's 1st orbital flight is almost here!  We made an animation to show you the planned flight path #SpaceX @elonmusk pic.twitter.com/7oPqIKXrsI  Cindy Pom (@CindyPom) April 16, 2023

Grimes celebrates upcoming orbit

Monday 17 April 2023 09:38 , Andrew Griffin

Musician Grimes, Elon Musks sometime partner, seems to be attending the launch. Shes posted a tweet that seems to be celebrating.

We're getting to orbit today  pic.twitter.com/xJ9v90QqK6   (@Grimezsz) April 17, 2023

Elon Musk says he doesnt expect launch to happen in Twitter space

Monday 17 April 2023 09:29 , Andrew Griffin

Elon Musk says theres a good chance todays launch will get postponed. And if it doesnt, then theres a good chance it will go wrong when it happens.

I guess I would just like to set expectations... low, he said. If we get far enough away from the launchpad before something goes wrong, I would consider that to be a success.

If SpaceX sees anything that gives us concern it will postpone the launch, he said. (Musk has already predicted a launch on Thursday  which would be 4/20, a favourite date of his  so he seems to be factoring in a delay.)

If we do launch, well consider anything that does not result in the destruction of the [...] launch pad [...] a win.

Thats what he said in a Twitter space, on Sunday evening, held to mark the upcoming launch.

You can listen to the full thing on YouTube below, thanks to Remo Uherek, who recorded it.

SpaceX shares new images of fully stacked Starship waiting to go

Monday 17 April 2023 09:18 , Andrew Griffin

SpaceX has shared new images of Starship waiting on its launchpad.

More pics of fully stacked Starship ahead of its first flight test from Starbase  https://t.co/095WHWN1zX pic.twitter.com/eSeQKcR2k4  SpaceX (@SpaceX) April 16, 2023

Even before it takes off, these pictures show the biggest rocket ever made. But that will obviously be a lot more impressive once it actually gets going.

Everything you need to know about todays launch

Monday 17 April 2023 09:11 , Andrew Griffin

... and heres everything you need to know about the launch: what will happen, what wont, when, and more.

How to watch live

Monday 17 April 2023 09:09 , Andrew Griffin

Heres everything you need to know about following the historic launch, live.

Starship gets launch time

Monday 17 April 2023 08:23 , Andrew Griffin

The time is set: SpaceX says it is targeting a launch around 8am central time, 9am eastern time, or 1pm in the UK. It has some time either side to use, if anything goes wrong.

Starship launch: How previous tests have gone

Thursday 13 April 2023 17:36 , Anthony Cuthbertson

This may be the first ever orbital flight test of Starship, but SpaceX has already performed numerous high-altitude flights with previous prototypes of the rocket.

All but one of them ended in a fiery explosion, just like this one:

The one that made it was Starship SN15, which managed to land back on its pad at SpaceXs Starbase facility in southern Texas in May 2021.

Fast forward nearly two years and SpaceX boss Elon Musk says theres no guarantee that the latest Starship wont end in failure.

I am not saying it will get to orbit but I am guaranteeing excitement, he said last month. It wont be boring.

Starship launch: SpaceXs timeline for the flight test

Thursday 13 April 2023 10:25 , Anthony Cuthbertson

The first ever orbital flight test of a Starship rocket will take just an hour and a half, according to SpaceXs launch timeline.

It will see Starship and its booster rocket lift off from the Starbase facility in Texas, before the two separate over the Gulf of Mexico. As the booster comes down to land on a drone ship, the main Starship rocket will continue around the planet to splash down just off the coast of Hawaii.

(SpaceX)

If all goes to plan, this is what should happen after lift-off:

55 seconds - Max Q (moment of peak mechanical stress on the rocket)

2 minutes 49 seconds - Booster main engine cutoff

2 minutes 52 seconds - Stage separation

2 minutes 57 seconds - Starship ignition

3 minutes 11 seconds - Booster boostback burn startup

4 minutes 6 seconds - Booster boostback burn shutdown

7 minutes 32 seconds - Booster is transonic

7 minutes 40 seconds - Booster landing burn startup

8 minutes 3 seconds - Booster landing burn shutdown

9 minutes 20 seconds - Starship engine cutoff

77 minutes and 21 seconds - Starship entry

88 minutes 43 seconds - Starship is transonic

90 minutes - Starship splashdown

Starship launch: What will SpaceXs next-gen rocket actually be used for?

Thursday 13 April 2023 09:53 , Anthony Cuthbertson

Elon Musk has big plans for Starship, having pinned his hopes for colonising Mars on the next-generation rocket.

The ultimate goal is to establish a permanent human presence on the red planet by 2050, but before that a base on the Moon will neet to be set up in order to serve as a launch pad for missions deeper into the solar system.

SpaceX has already secured a multi-billion dollar deal with Nasa to develop a Starship moon lander as part of the US space agencys Artemis mission.

An illustration of a SpaceX Starship human lander design that will carry the first Nasa astronauts to the Moon (SpaceX)

A crewed flight of Starship HLS (Human Landing System) will not take place earlier than December 2025, according to Nasa, but should occur before 2030.

If successful, it will be a modified version of this rocket that will then take humans to Mars.

A SpaceX mockup of Elon Musks plan to use Starship rockets set up a colony on Mars in order to ensure humanitys long-term survival (SpaceX)

First though, SpaceX needs to complete the orbital flight test.

Starship launch: Latest SpaceX photos show true scale of rocket

Wednesday 12 April 2023 18:26 , Anthony Cuthbertson

SpaceX has shared new images of its fully stacked Starship sitting on its launchpad at the Starbase facility in southern Texas.

In one image, you can see workers in a crane at the base of the booster, showing off the true scale of the Mars-bound rocket.

Weather looks good, once regulatory approval is granted that will be the final hurdle before an orbital launch attempt can be made.

Starship launch: SpaceX working on Elon time?

Wednesday 12 April 2023 15:01 , Anthony Cuthbertson

The current status of Starship is ready for launch; awaiting regulatory approval, according to SpaceX boss Elon Musk.

Starship is ready for launch 



Awaiting regulatory approval  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) April 9, 2023

The only problem is, pending only regulatory approval is what he said nearly two years ago. When one of his followers asked if this was Elon Time, or real time, he replied, real time.

(Twitter/ screenshot)

Things at SpaceXs Starbase facility seem far more progressed this time, so his conviction carries far more weight. The FAA also appears close to approving, with only one stumbling block potentially standing in the way of a Starship launch next week.

Starship launch: Watch SpaceXs latest mission to Mars demo

Wednesday 12 April 2023 11:33 , Anthony Cuthbertson

SpaceX has updated its Starship Mission to Mars demo, showing a computer generated vision of what it will look like for the rocket to launch into space.

It features an animation of the Starship stage separation, as well as the booster landing back at the launch site for refuelling.

The Starship rocket meanwhile continues its journey to Mars, landing alongside other Starship rockets at an already inhabited colony.

An early version of the video was originally used at a SpaceX event in 2016. You can watch the latest version here:

Starship launch: SpaceX says no rehearsal this week

Wednesday 12 April 2023 08:24 , Anthony Cuthbertson

SpaceX says it will not do a launch rehearsal this week, but is still aiming for the orbital flight test as early as next week. Its not clear if a rehearsal will take place at all, having already completed a static fire test of both the Starship rocket and the Super Heavy booster.

The only thing currently standing in Starships way is regulatory approval from the Federal Aviation Administration, who will hopefully have a decision on the environmental compliance review soon. There has never been a launch like this, which could account for the approval delays.

Teams are focused on launch readiness ahead of Starships first integrated flight test as soon as next week, pending regulatory approval  no launch rehearsal this week https://t.co/SpsRVRsvz1 pic.twitter.com/ovYUQgAjAc  SpaceX (@SpaceX) April 11, 2023

Starship launch: What date will the SpaceX rocket lift off?

Tuesday 11 April 2023 19:13 , Anthony Cuthbertson

Starship is ready for launch, Elon Musk has said, only regulatory approval is standing in the way.

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has given a number of updates in recent days, with the latest report suggesting the date will be on or soon after 17 April.

This is the latest statement we have from the FAA:

The FAA has not made a license determination for the SpaceX Starship Super Heavy operation, and the FAAs Command Center planning notice should not be interpreted as an indicator that a determination to issue a licence has been made or is forthcoming

FAA

Starship launch: How big is the SpaceX rocket?

Tuesday 11 April 2023 17:55 , Anthony Cuthbertson

Starship and its Super Heavy Booster will produce nearly twice the thrust of Nasas Space Launch System (SLS), which is currently the most powerful rocket ever made.

SpaceX is building such a massive rocket in order to meet Musks goal of transporting people and cargo across the Solar System. In order to reach the Moon and Mars with significant payloads, Starship has been equipped with six engines, while the Super Heavy has a further 33  producing a projected 7.25 million kg of thrust.

Heres how its actual size compares to other huge rockets throughout history:

Hello and welcome...

Tuesday 11 April 2023 17:12 , Anthony Cuthbertson

to The Independents live coverage of SpaceXs preparations to launch its Starship rocket into orbit.

The biggest spacecraft ever built is ready for lift-off, according to chief exec Elon Musk, though regulators are still performing the final approval checks. A report from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has marked 17 April as a primary launch date, with 18-22 April listed as backup dates.

Well be bringing you all the latest news and updates of the next-generation rocket, which Musk hopes to one day use to colonise Mars.
Police in Statesville have taken a man into custody who is accused of robbing a Bank of America on March 10.

The Statesville Police Department said the robbery happened around 9:30 a.m. that day at a Bank of America on East Broad Street.

Police say a man standing about 510 wearing a blue surgical mask, eyeglasses, and a tan or gray collared polo shirt, walked into the bank branch and indicated that he had a gun and demanded money.

Its not clear how much money was stolen, but the police department said the suspect left in a dark blue Toyota Prius.

Police said on Monday, Michael Thomas Bzik, 36, of Concord, was taken into custody.

Statesville police and investigators with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigations went to Allentown, Pennsylvania, where they questioned several people and gathered more evidence. After some surveillance, they arrested Bzik and charged him with robbery with a dangerous weapon and being a fugitive of justice.

He was given no bond.

(WATCH: No injuries reported in Stanly County bank robbery, sheriffs office says)
Alibaba Cloud AI Tongyi Qianwen

Alibaba Cloud's AI big language model "Tongyi Qianwen" and the logo of OpenAI in Hangzhou city, Zhejiang province, China. On the same day, Ali Cloud officially launched ChatGPT's AI large language model "Tongyi Qianwen". It is understood that "Tongyi Qianwen" is a large scale language model, including multiple rounds of dialogue, copywriting, logical reasoning, multi-modal understanding, multi-language support. Credit - CFOTO/Future Publishing

An AI gold rush is underway in the private sector in the wake of ChatGPT, but the geopolitical stakes are even greater. The United States and China are vying for global leadership in AI, a technology that is transforming political, economic, and military power. The U.S. currently leads in AI, but China is rapidly catching up and has declared its intent to be the global leader by 2030. To stay ahead of China in AI, the U.S. will need to work with China. The best competitive strategy for the U.S. is to sustain ties with China in areas where the U.S. benefits disproportionately, such as human talent and computing hardware, while severing problematic ties.

U.S. policymakers have been on a steady path to selectively decoupling the U.S. and Chinese AI ecosystems, which are deeply intertwined. The U.S. government has blacklisted Chinese tech firms using Entity List designations and slapped export controls on advanced semiconductor manufacturing equipment and AI chips to China. U.S. companies and universities should not be working with Chinese entities engaged in human rights abuses or working with the military. Yet Washingtons steady ratcheting up of restrictions risks going too far. To preserve Americas technological leadership, the U.S. should maintain the flow of Chinese talent to the U.S. and preserve Chinas dependence on U.S. hardware.

China produces the most top AI scientists in the world. More researchers publishing in top AI conferences come from China than any other country. But they dont stay in China. Over half of Chinas best undergraduates studying AI come to the U.S. for graduate school. And they stay. Over 90 percent of Chinese undergraduates who move to the U.S. for their PhD stay in the U.S. after graduation. The biggest beneficiary of Chinese talent isnt Chinaits the United States.

Story continues

The Chinese government is working hard to boost its domestic scientific base. To tap into the estimated 400,000 Chinese scientists abroad, the Chinese government has an estimated over 200 talent recruitment programs to bring scientific knowledge back to China. The U.S. government has stepped up investigations in response to the Chinese governments campaign of intellectual property theft and academic espionage. In 2021, a jury convicted the former chair of Harvards Chemistry and Chemical Biology Department of lying to federal authorities and tax fraud for failing to disclose a $50,000 a month salary he was paid for participating in Chinas Thousand Talents Plan. The U.S. government needs to improve research security through investigations and increased visa screening, but it must do so without cutting off the flow of Chinese talent to the U.S. These talent flows are a brain drain for China and a brain gain for the U.S.

Read More: In the Tech War With China, the U.S. Is Finding Friends

The U.S. also benefits from keeping China dependent on chips made using U.S. technology. As the frontier of AI research shifts to more compute-intensive AI models like ChatGPT, America has an asymmetric advantage over China. Even though the most advanced chips in the world arent made in the U.S., they are made using U.S. technology. The U.S. government used this fact to cut off Huaweis access to advanced 5G chips in 2020, crippling Huaweis global 5G business. In October 2022, the Biden Administration placed even more expansive export controls on advanced AI chips to China. Unlike the controls on Huawei, these new AI chip controls are not targeted at a specific company; they are China-wide. While these controls are likely to constrain Chinese firms ability to train the most cutting-edge AI models, they risk accelerating Chinas drive towards chip independence.

U.S controls create financial incentives for companies to design-out U.S. technology to meet Chinas massive appetite for foreign chips. China imports over $400 billion in chips per year. While current controls are narrowly targeted, they will de facto grow over time as chips advance and the threshold for export controls remains the same. U.S. controls also risk boosting Chinese domestic chip companies as their cloud computing and datacenters turn to more reliable domestic suppliers. A better strategy would be to keep Chinese commercial companies dependent on foreign chips built using U.S. technology while denying sales for military applications or human rights abuses. Keeping China dependent on U.S. technology would retain the kind of leverage the U.S. government used against Huawei, a powerful tool in the U.S.-China technology competition.

Washington has been on a steady path towards selective decoupling of the U.S. and Chinese AI ecosystems. U.S. policymakers tend to view any connections between U.S. and Chinese AI researchers with suspicion, fearing Chinas model of military-civil fusion means any civilian AI advances will benefit Chinas military. This is a mistake. The U.S. is in a long-term technology competition with China, but pure decoupling is a weak strategy. The U.S. benefits disproportionately from talent flows and Chinas dependence on American hardware. Washington should maintain these linkages even while severing others. The best strategy for staying ahead of China in AI includes working with China when the U.S. benefits more.
President Joe Biden recently offered a new defense of his controversial 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan  in an unsigned 12-page memo that the White House released amid religious holidays with little warning to U.S. officials or reporters.

Two weeks later, officials, veterans and volunteers who worked on the mission are still deeply frustrated, saying that Bidens narrative about Afghanistan is too focused on political point-scoring and that the administration should do more to tackle the ongoing crisis.

It felt like an eighth grader wrote it from the middle school cafeteria. I think the public deserved more of an answer, said a current service member who spent months helping evacuees from Afghanistan and called the document petty.

Theres a big portion of America thats still hurting about this. There are still people who are trying to get people out. Theres still so much work going on that [Washington] has forgotten about, added the service member, who spoke on the condition of anonymity for fear of professional retaliation.

The White House statement is an unclassified summary of an after-action review that Biden directed across government agencies involved in the Afghan pull-out. The memo largely addresses how much responsibility Biden should bear for the way America ended its 20-year mission in Afghanistan  with a two-week withdrawal in which 13 American service members and hundreds of Afghan civilians died and thousands of people eligible for U.S. evacuations were left behind.

The answer, according to the memo: not much. Before Biden withdrew U.S. forces from Afghanistan in August 2021 and Taliban militants took over the country, the administration carried out deliberate, intensive, rigorous, and inclusive planning, the statement argues, including preparing for a major evacuation starting in May 2021.

Instead of evaluating the Biden administrations internal debates and choices, the White House statement places significant blame on former President Donald Trump, noting that he signed a deal with the Taliban that set a deadline for U.S. forces to leave Afghanistan. Trump left no plan for a withdrawal or evacuation and damaged key national security institutions that had to implement the pull-out, according to the memo. Additionally, the memo raises questions about U.S. intelligence and military commanders, as well as Afghans themselves, saying Biden had little warning of a rapid Taliban takeover, let military personnel determine the operational details of the evacuation and tried without success to urge a stronger Afghan resistance to the Taliban.

Story continues

Nine people who worked on the withdrawal and evacuation mission told HuffPost the White House statement offers a dishonest view of the situation. By emphasizing Trumps decisions, overlooking gaps in Bidens preparation and casting a shambolic moment as a success, the White House is fueling fresh frustration and hurting its credibility on Afghanistan even further, they argued.

Critics say Bidens team should acknowledge its mistakes and identify who made decisions that damaged the rescue effort, as well as address the trauma and humanitarian toll that their approach caused. Veterans and other volunteers who have spent years trying to save Afghan partners of the U.S. also want Biden to take immediate steps to make ongoing evacuation efforts easier.

From a military perspective and from even a citizens perspective its very difficult to believe in the [memo]... to believe in our country and to believe that I did the right thing in my youth, said Perry Blackburn, a retired lieutenant colonel who was one of the first soldiers to deploy to Afghanistan in 2001. The founder of a nonprofit called AFGFree that works on evacuation missions and aid, Blackburn wants Biden to change administrative policies to make it easier for vulnerable Afghans to resettle abroad.

The administration is tired of the issue, he said, adding: Were relentless, and they want to move on.

The memo and the resulting outrage come amid growing scrutiny of the withdrawal.

Republicans are using their control of the House of Representatives to pressure the Biden administration to release more information on its Afghan strategy and to hold high-profile hearings on the matter. Last month, the first hearing featured testimony from Sgt. Tyler Vargas-Andrews, who was severely wounded in the Aug. 26, 2021, terrorist attack on Kabul airport. He accused Biden of an inexcusable lack of accountability and negligence.

Marine Corps Sgt. Tyler Vargas-Andrews was one of multiple U.S. service members wounded during a suicide attack on the American evacuation mission in Kabul, Afghanistan, in August 2021.

Marine Corps Sgt. Tyler Vargas-Andrews was one of multiple U.S. service members wounded during a suicide attack on the American evacuation mission in Kabul, Afghanistan, in August 2021.

Scott Mann, a veteran who runs an Afghan rescue effort called Task Force Pineapple, also testified at the March hearing. In a LinkedIn post about this months White House memo, he said the document showed a tremendous amount of bias and almost deluded thinking.

It does not reflect, in my assessment, good institutional leadership, the kind of leadership that we were taught as young leaders and junior officers, Mann added. Certainly the Trump administration bears a tremendous amount of responsibility but the withdrawal  and, worse, the abandonment of our allies  falls squarely on this administration.

Contacted for comment, a White House spokesman noted that the administration helped a significant number of Afghans. While no one, including our intelligence community, anticipated that the Afghan government would fall as quickly as it did, we were able to conduct one of the largest airlifts in history  a massive undertaking that would not have been possible without significant contingency planning, the spokesman wrote in an email.

The next majorAfghanistan hearing is scheduled for Wednesday. It will feature testimony from the inspectors general of the Pentagon, the State Department and the U.S. Agency for International Development, as well as the congressionally appointed special inspector general for Afghan reconstruction  four watchdogs with access to sensitive and potentially embarrassing materials about the administrations Afghan policy.

A Different Kind Of Trauma

Taliban forces captured Afghanistans capital of Kabul on Aug. 15, 2021. Between then and Aug. 31, more than 120,000 Americans, other foreigners and Afghans fled on frantically arranged flights that left Kabul airport as 6,000 U.S. troops and local partners guarded the facility. Tens of thousands of people tried to get to the airport, often with help from contacts abroad, such as U.S. military personnel and veterans, nonprofit groups and Afghan expatriates. Many of them, including Afghans who would likely face Taliban persecution for working with the U.S. and nearly 1,000 American citizens, were unable to board planes.

On Aug. 26, a suicide bombing attack at one of the gates to the airport killed 13 U.S. troops and at least 170 Afghans, and wounded scores of others. Three days later, the U.S. launched a drone strike that officials said was meant to stop another attack at the airport. The strike instead killed 10 civilians, including seven children, The New York Times revealed.

By the time the airlift ended, desperate Afghans and foreigners who remained in the country had few chances to leave. Meanwhile, American officials and volunteers were struggling to care for the tens of thousands of people who were evacuated.

Eighteen months later, the work has yet to end.

Many volunteers are still spending time and personal resources to help people escape Taliban rule and build new lives. That work can weigh heavy: Multiple people told HuffPost that becoming involved in the effort activated their and their colleagues post-traumatic stress from military service and left scars on their families.

Just in the last six weeks, we have had another divorce and another bankruptcy come in, said Ben Owen, who runs a veterans group called Flanders Fields. Some veterans who became involved in the Afghan effort and had previously struggled with substance abuse ended up relapsing, he added.

The active service member, who worked with the nearly 35,000 Afghans who passed through Ramstein Air Base in Germany, told HuffPost she really struggled in the months after [the evacuation] because we just held it together for so many months.

It was a different kind of trauma or post-traumatic stress than combat in so many ways: You took on a lot on behalf of other people, she added, citing examples like caring for children who came to the facility without their parents.

The rushed, ad-hoc nature of the withdrawal and evacuation made such consequences inevitable, people involved believe, as officials and volunteers took on herculean tasks beyond their skill sets, stretched themselves to offer logistical and emotional support to terrified contacts on the ground and juggled new responsibilities with their existing jobs and personal lives.

The Biden administration failed to suitably prepare or heed warnings, two current and two former officials told HuffPost, disputing the claims of intense planning in the recent memo.

I was sitting in [White House] meetings as late as June and July, and nobody was acting as though this was an urgent thing we needed to start making decisions on, said a former national security official who requested anonymity to avoid retaliation.

A current Biden administration official recalled meeting with a high-ranking active-duty officer at CENTCOM, the Pentagon command that oversaw Afghanistan operations, in mid-July 2021. Is anyone reading the emails were sending? he asked her. Do you feel like Washington gets it? We need help. Were not qualified to help refugees  and, by the way, this is going to be really bad.

I thought to myself: Nobody is reading your emails, said the official, who was not authorized to speak on the record. She noted that much of the Biden administration was still working from home and away from secure government facilities at the time because of the pandemic.

Bidens aides had more than a year to craft a strategy, noted Marla Keenan, a civilian protection expert who volunteers with an Afghan evacuation group, because Trump had announced his deal with the Taliban well before the 2020 election.

As soon as Trump said they were going to withdraw, the planning should have started  it was fairly obvious there was going to be a problem, Keenan said. There were challenges that were inherited, but I do not believe they couldnt have been overcome.

A White House spokesman presented with these arguments told HuffPost the administration spent months getting ready to leave Afghanistan. There was extensive planning underway to prepare for all contingencies as early as March 2021, the spokesman wrote in an email. This planning continued rigorously for months.

And at a press conference after the memos release, White House national security spokesman John Kirby argued: Decisions made and the lack of planning done by the previous administration significantly limited options available to [Biden].

The presidents transition team asked to see plans for [troop] removal. They asked to see plans for a security transition to the Afghan government. And they asked to see plans to increase the processing of Special Immigrant Visas. None were forthcoming, Kirby continued. Transitions matter. Thats the first lesson learned here. And the incoming administration wasnt afforded much of one.

Once the evacuation began, a then-State Department official said the extremely unorganized process left staff at the agency  who were handling critical tasks like rushed visa processing and liaising with foreign governments that agreed to host Afghans  openly crying at work.

The morale hit a critical low where both appointees and civil servants were ashamed, the former official said, speaking on the condition of maintaining anonymity.

Amid worrying reports from the ground, conflicting instructions from superiors and rigid procedures that were not suitable for an emergency, there was no playbook  the official side didnt know what to do, said the current official. She and many other U.S. officials became involved with nongovernmental efforts to save vulnerable Afghans, U.S. citizens and others. No one was telling me to stop; everybody was saying, Keep doing what youre doing, she said.

Thousands of people tried to access the U.S. airlift out of Kabul airport in August 2021. Many of those eligible for evacuation were not able to get on planes.

Thousands of people tried to access the U.S. airlift out of Kabul airport in August 2021. Many of those eligible for evacuation were not able to get on planes.

Volunteers and officials scrambled to design their own procedures, conscious that they were dealing with matters of life and death.

They were going to leave behind the very people that bought into the same thing I did, and those people were going to be hunted by the very enemy I fought, said Blackburn, the retired Green Beret. I dont think the government anticipated us to organize so quickly and begin to advocate for these folks and be as relentless as we have been.

Determined as they were, veteran volunteers had to contend with limited information, a ticking clock and security threats.

With zero information or knowledge beforehand, were suddenly having to realize that its not just civilian volunteers or active-duty troops or contractors [at the airport]  we have to navigate three rings of security, one of which is the Taliban, Owen said.

For vulnerable Afghans, the irregular process meant unreliable access to help, noted Alex McCoy, a veteran and activist.

There was a perception that high-ranking powerful people were able to get their folks out and regular people were not able to: Out of the blue, some billionaire would say, Heres the information for someone I once met in Geneva. People were calling [Transportation Secretary and military veteran Pete] Buttigieg and generals, McCoy said. Every inequity that exists got amplified in the absence of an intentionally designed process.

And getting out of Afghanistan was no guarantee of stability.

Personnel who were working at facilities receiving evacuee flights, like the Ramstein base in Germany, were never certain who back in the U.S. was directing the evacuation and resettlement operation, the service member said. We had to take it upon ourselves to take charge.  We were like, This is an airlift base  we dont know how to run a city of evacuees!

The head that needs to roll is whoever didnt put somebody in charge, she added.

The former national security official challenged the White House memos claim that Trump-era dips in personnel at agencies like the State Department drove the pandemonium. They had an entire task force, they plussed-up everybody it wasnt a matter of not having enough bodies, said the former official. It was that we had people who were operating from this position of inexperience in crisis management, risk aversion and a lack of interagency cooperation.

Some administration officials working on the operation came to believe that national security adviser Jake Sullivan or Secretary of State Antony Blinken would be fired over the chaos, the one current and two former officials said.

There werent any practitioners in Bidens Cabinet  in this situation where you need an absurd level of practicality, all you have is bureaucrats and theorists, said the current official. She was specifically critical of Sullivan, saying: Jake Sullivan has never had to make a lifesaving decision. He has been paid to answer questions in an intelligent way. What in Jake Sullivans resume qualified him to make lifesaving decisions? They need to think about how that appears when youve got someone up there floundering and not being held accountable.

A White House spokesman declined to address the criticism of Sullivan or critiques of how the administration handled personnel working on the evacuation.

At Ramstein, the service member relied on her previous years of experience in Afghanistan to reduce the risk of violence in the crowded camps  where emotions ran high as it remained unclear when people would be allowed to leave  and to help staff be culturally sensitive. She tracked the danger of inter-ethnic and inter-tribal conflict, monitored whether evacuees who previously held top government posts were being overly dominant, communicated with Afghans in the U.S. who had family or contacts in the camp and designed lessons to help people prepare for life in America.

It was better because we made it better, she said. Help was not on the way.

Thousands of Afghans spent more than a month at Ramstein Air Base in Germany, where one U.S. service member said officials were unsure who was overseeing the resettlement process.

Thousands of Afghans spent more than a month at Ramstein Air Base in Germany, where one U.S. service member said officials were unsure who was overseeing the resettlement process.

By Oct. 30, the Ramstein mission ended: U.S. forces completed the process of taking evacuees there to the United States.

But government support for the personnel involved there and at other facilities has been inconsistent, the service member said. Troops permanently stationed at the bases received decompression time while those who were deployed there temporarily only received assistance or leave if they personally requested it or their specific unit provided it.

You had young officers, young State Department folks just in charge and once it was done, in a sense it was like [the government] didnt give a shit anymore, the service member added.

For veterans who were affected by the Biden administrations policy, a post-withdrawal surge in Veterans Affairs Department outreach helped, multiple veterans said. But the botched mission and the seeming U.S. failure could resonate painfully for years. The former national security official, who is herself a veteran, said she worries that research will eventually link the situation to an uptick in post-traumatic stress claims and veteran suicides.

People who are still involved in evacuation efforts are alarmed about waning interest and resources despite Afghanistans worsening condition. Moments like the release of Bidens defensive memo shift public attention to partisan jousting, and there is deepening distrust between volunteers and the administration, despite the White House memos assertion that the administration saw outside support as critical and it is building on these partnerships.

Were still in the thick of it  it should be focused on action, not protect your ass yet, Keenan said. She said she hopes the veterans she is assisting will eventually help evacuate Afghan journalists, activists, artists and others at risk from the Taliban.

Its not just those who helped the U.S. military or NATO. It was also a lot of other people who bought into what we were selling, Keenan said.

Playing Politics

The Biden administration has always been extremely sensitive about political embarrassment over its Afghanistan policy. Still, Bidens team misjudged how its policies would upset specific groups with influence over the national conversation on foreign policy, like veterans who are deeply invested in the U.S. commitment to foreign partners, argued McCoy, the veteran and activist who lobbied to end the U.S. mission in Afghanistan.

The goodwill that was created by the decision to withdraw was harmed by the decision to not evacuate Afghans with U.S. links sooner, McCoy said.

He noted that the administration often justifies its approach by giving Biden credit for ending a war that three of his predecessors failed to conclude. President Biden refused to send another generation of Americans to fight a war that should have ended for the United States long ago there was no scenario except a permanent and significantly expanded U.S. military presence  that would have changed the trajectory, the recent White House memo states.

But some of the loudest voices for pulling out American troops, including prominent veterans and human rights groups, repeatedly said they wanted to see both a withdrawal and an evacuation of Afghans who were tied to the U.S. or facing danger from the Taliban. And the Biden teams boasts of ending forever wars may disturb people whose careers were defined by the Afghanistan mission and other post-9/11 conflicts, said the current administration official: This is not the language we want to be using when were trying to connect to veterans.

Bidens team repeatedly seeks to conflate the decision to withdraw and the consequences of deciding not to do the evacuation sooner, McCoy said. He said he believes that framing upsets people disappointed in the evacuation and boosts hawks who never wanted a withdrawal at all, including top Republicans.

President Joe Biden with a Vietnam War veteran on the 2020 campaign trail. As a presidential candidate, he pledged to wind down America's involvement in overseas conflicts.

President Joe Biden with a Vietnam War veteran on the 2020 campaign trail. As a presidential candidate, he pledged to wind down America's involvement in overseas conflicts.

Arguably, the administrations own political caution about offering refuge helped create the negative perception of the withdrawal that Biden is still struggling to combat.

For instance, the administration rejected ideas from activist groups and lawmakers from both parties, such as rapidly sending vulnerable Afghans to Guam for processing before relocating them stateside, seemingly because Biden was antsy about appearing to spark mass migration or risk national security.

The memo does not mention that months were wasted looking for third countries to host evacuees because of the unwillingness to evacuate them to the logical place: the U.S., McCoy said.

The roll-out of the memo reflected how the administration is still misjudging the potential risks of its choices. By dispatching Kirby, a retired admiral who now works in the White House, to talk to journalists about the memo, Bidens team may have hoped that his military background would bolster the administrations argument. Instead, Kirbys comments were especially jarring for many onlookers with military ties.

For all this talk of chaos, I didnt see it from my perch, said Kirby, who was the Pentagon spokesperson at the time of the withdrawal.

Owen called Kirbys remark unconscionable, and the current service member commented: Thirteen young American service members are dead  thats not the right words to use.

Hearing Kirby in my mind absolutely lie about what happened 18 months ago in Afghanistan and then double down with [this memo], it is difficult for me to understand how were ever going to get better at what we do, Blackburn said. Kirby says there was no chaos  there were people hanging off of an airplane, brother!

A White House spokesman declined to address the pushback to Kirbys remarks.

Asked where they would like Bidens team to focus its energy, veterans and volunteers shared a wishlist of changes. Blackburn hopes the president will drop the requirement for Afghans seeking visas to have in-person interviews, which requires them to somehow leave Afghanistan to get to a U.S. embassy and to be able to schedule an embassy appointment amid a staggering global backlog. Additionally, he wants the U.S. to push other countries to take in Afghan refugees.

Owen said he believes Congress is getting closer to passing the Afghan Adjustment Act, which would provide a path to permanent residence for Afghans evacuated to the U.S.

Nearly everyone HuffPost spoke to said they also hope to eventually see greater accountability for the Biden teams missteps in 2021. Though the memo offered little detail on who to hold responsible, the administration simultaneously sent classified after-action reviews from various government agencies to Capitol Hill, which could offer clues to legislators and congressional staff about where to highlight bad decision-making and finally reckon with one of the most surreal moments in Americas long war on terrorism.

What a freaking giant horrible mark on humanity that entire thing was, the active service member said.

Related...
Blood had already been spilled during the armed standoff between US agents and the Branch Davidian cult in Waco, Texas, when lawyer Dick DeGuerin got a phone call.

The worried mother of cult leader David Koresh said her son needed legal help. She hired DeGuerin.

He was the first outsider to pass through the security cordon and enter the Mount Carmel compound, where the Davidians were holed up.

DeGuerin came face to face with a badly wounded Koresh, and was in position to try to broker an end to the stalemate.

Three decades later, as the story pours forth from the 82-year-old lawyer, he remains convinced that the 51-day siege could have ended peacefully without the deaths of nearly 80 people.

DeGuerin's account strikes a chord in today's deeply polarized United States, where some see Waco as a symbol of government overreach.

Even now, a memorial at the scene to those killed draws hundreds of visitors a month.

When DeGuerin got the call from Koresh's mother, he knew that the case was of a "magnitude" beyond anything he'd ever faced.

"I had handled some big cases, but nothing like this," DeGuerin recalled from his office in Houston. "The world was watching."

- Talking to Koresh -

The Branch Davidians were founded in 1959 as a splinter from the Seventh Day Adventist church. They believed in the imminent return of Jesus, and Koresh emerged as their charismatic leader in the 1980s.

In 1993, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) accused the group of stockpiling weapons, and obtained an arrest warrant for Koresh and a search warrant for the compound, where there were also allegations of child abuse.

On February 28, ATF agents raided the complex, a gun battle erupted, several people died, and a tense weeks-long standoff set in.

As he prepared to enter the compound in late March, DeGuerin thought he had worked out a deal with Texas Rangers law enforcement officers to manage Koresh's surrender.

FBI agents took the lawyer close to the compound in the back of a tank, stopping about 100 yards away.

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"My handler said, 'Would you like some body armor?' I said, 'No, I'm not afraid of the Davidians... I just don't want you FBI snipers shooting at me.'"

DeGuerin didn't know what to expect, but said he found Koresh, 33, to be intelligent and articulate, and could see he had gunshot wounds to his torso and wrist.

Koresh was "very angry" at the siege by the FBI and ATF agents.

DeGuerin saw it as his mission to get Koresh out of the compound and into court "without anybody else dying."

"I told him, of course, that the law is the law and he had to obey the law even though it might conflict with his religious beliefs. He understood that," he said.

- Wait or 'rush in' -

As negotiations ground on, DeGuerin returned to the compound with another lawyer, Jack Zimmerman, who represented one of the other cult members.

Patience was wearing thin, particularly among federal agents.

"There were the negotiators that wanted it to end peacefully. And then there were the tactical people that just wanted to rush in and kill anybody and arrest him," DeGuerin said. "The tactical people won."

As a final showdown loomed, DeGuerin sought to go back and make a final appeal for Koresh to surrender to authorities.

But he was turned away.

"This FBI agent told me, 'We don't need you anymore.'"

On that day -- April 19, 1993 -- FBI agents in armored vehicles smashed into the compound buildings and pumped in tear gas.

The causes of the subsequent fires are still disputed, but the compound burnt to the ground, claiming more than 70 lives, including some 20 children.

Investigations cleared law enforcement of wrongdoing, but Waco became a rallying cry for Americans accusing their government of abuse of authority, and it spurred growth of militias across the country.

In 1995, on the second anniversary of the raid, Timothy McVeigh, who had driven to Waco to witness the siege, carried out the Oklahoma City bombing killing 168 people.

For DeGuerin, 30 years on, the lessons of Waco are clear.

The federal agents had grown convinced that Koresh "was fooling them again" and would not surrender, he said.

"They didn't wait. I believe if they'd waited, it would have ended peacefully. But it didn't."

mav/tjj/bgs
For more than two months, newly unionized workers at the Medieval Times in Buena Park have been on strike, picketing at the popular themed dinner theater. Last week, customers, apparently frustrated with protesting workers blocking the parking lot entrance, lashed out.

On Thursday, several picketers were struck by a patron in a moving vehicle or were shoved by a second patron who got out of the passenger seat of the car, according to worker interviews and video footage of the altercation posted to social media.

Videos show a car attempting to access the Medieval Times parking lot unsuccessfully, a man in the passenger seat exiting the vehicle and swinging at picketers, and the driver, still behind the wheel, driving the vehicle through the line of protesters.

We were peacefully picketing tonight and because of that there was a slight delay in traffic getting into the venue. We were telling people not only about the abuse of people but the abuse of animals that this company continues to perform. pic.twitter.com/lI2u5Kq8hE  Sir Jake The Knight (@JAKEMBOWMAN) April 14, 2023

Medieval Times actor and strike organizer Erin Zapcic said at least six workers were hurt in the incident. The most seriously injured person suffered a fractured tailbone, she said. All protesters have since returned to the picket line, she said.

Lt. Ryan Dieringer of the Buena Park Police Department confirmed police arrested one male Medieval Times patron involved.

Also on Thursday, Dieringer said, police had arrested a picketer for punching the hood of an oncoming vehicle attempting to enter the parking lot. He said the protests had been peaceful up until last week.

Zapcic alleged the worker involved in that incident had only hit the car after the car had struck him, adding that the arrest was for a vandalism misdemeanor.

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In an emailed statement, a Medieval Times spokesperson urged against protests that interfered with the company's business.

We do not condone any sort of violence on the picket line, regardless of the perpetrator, the spokesperson said. We respect the right of our employees to strike, and we hope they respect our right to conduct our business. Our guests and their families also have the right to be entertained, free from the blocking of their cars, any threats or intimidation. We ask for peace, calm and respect from everyone at this time.

Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament, based in Irving, Texas, is a Spanish nobility-themed dinner theater show with live-action jousts on horseback. It operates 10 Medieval Times castles in the U.S. and Canada.

Zapcic said negotiations with Medieval Times for workers' first contract have established some common ground, but have made little headway on main issues of pay increases, improved safety procedures and better treatment of horses. Medieval Times throughout the strike has continued its Buena Park production without the unionized workers, instead using out-of-state actors sourced from other castles, and is advertising for new hires, she said.

Cast member Erin Zapcic, seen here on the picket line in February, plays the queen at the Buena Park Medieval Times. She also serves as a union steward for the show cast. (Stephanie Breijo / Los Angeles Times)

To prompt the company to engage seriously in negotiations, Zapcic said, the group of some two dozen protesters recently moved the picket line closer to the parking lot entrance, marching along Beach Boulevard and preventing cars from easily accessing parking for the dinner theater. Some customers have been irate in response, Zapcic said.

Medieval Times' representatives did not respond to requests for comment on the state of the ongoing negotiations.

The main issues are still outstanding and still pretty much at loggerheads," Zapcic said. "None of us wants to be out here for 70-plus days, but we're gonna stay on here for as long as it takes. All we're asking is people don't cross the picket line."

Zapcic typically plays the role of Queen Dona Maria Isabella in the Buena Park Medieval Times production.

"Instead of understanding and respecting what we are fighting against, guests became violent," said Jake Bowman, a worker who plays the role of a knight, in a series of posts on Twitter after the incident. "Do not come to this show until they work with us to make it safe and better for everyone. Its not asking a lot, just go see a movie instead."

Medieval Times performers in Buena Park voted to unionize in November and went on strike Feb. 11.

In late March, the location's sound and lighting department announced its intent to unionize. The National Labor Relations Board has scheduled a union election for April 26, where the group will vote on whether to join the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
A 22-year-old college student found dead inside a wrecked car was killed by a gunshot wound to the head, Texas officials say.

Police in Selma, a suburb of San Antonio, responded to a call about a crashed vehicle along Interstate Highway 35 late on April 15, the department said in a news release.

Witnesses described the victims vehicle as swerving and almost striking another vehicle before hitting the inside median and coming to a stop, the release said, adding that the victim had injuries to the back of his head.

But following an autopsy, it was determined that the victim, Joseph Banales, was killed not by the crash, but by a gunshot to the head, the Bexar County Medical Examiners Office told McClatchy News. His death has been ruled a homicide.

Banales was a senior nursing student at the University of the Incarnate Word and a member of the ROTC program, his family told KENS.

He was heading home after a military ball he attended with his girlfriend, family told the station. Banales had just dropped her off and they were talking on the phone while he drove.

During the call, she overheard an engine revving, a loud bang, and then the call dropped, according to the outlet.

His family believes he was killed in a road rage incident, KSAT reported.

If anybody has any information we would really appreciate you coming forward because the shooter needs to be brought to justice, Lisa Amato, Banales godmother, told KSAT. Its very difficult to know this man or woman is out there still living their life while we are grappling with Josephs death and how to bury him.

McClatchy News has reached out to Selma police for an update.

The investigation is ongoing.

Man shoots three after food order is delivered to wrong house, Michigan officials say

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A makeshift grave for a student killed on campus surroundings at the University of Khartoum

A student has been killed at the University of Khartoum after being hit by a stray bullet amid continuing deadly clashes in Sudan's capital city.

A Facebook post, verified by the BBC, said the body was buried on campus after safe passage off site could not be secured.

Sudan has been rocked by violence since tensions spilled over between the army and a notorious paramilitary force.

Dozens of students remain trapped.

"We buried our friend after getting permission from his family and the university. We were going to get food for the rest of the students," law student Mosaab Sharif, who is sheltering in a building near the campus, told the BBC.

"There were three of us, and then he was hit in the chest. We couldn't even help him. As we were burying our colleague, one of us was hit with a bullet in his hand."

Both the army and a paramilitary group called the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) claim to control key sites in Khartoum, where residents have been sheltering from explosions and gunfire.

"Snipers have been targeting anyone with flash lights. That's why no-one is walking around wearing white clothes to be extra safe," said Mr Sharif.

"We are scared of both sides, the military and the RSF, if they shoot in our direction."

The law student also added that other students had been sleeping in a nearby mosque, when a shell hit the building, injuring two people.

"We are in the middle of a heavy firefight. There are ammunition strikes around us which hit homes.

"The students have been here for three days without food or drink. Their condition is very, very, bad," Mr Sharif explained in a video posted online, as gunfire rang out in the background.

Mosab Sharif says students are trapped in Khartoum

In a separate video circulating widely on social media, another student reveals how dozens of students are sleeping on the floor of a library on campus.

"There's 88 of us including 20 workers, some elderly. The situation is difficult," he said.

"We can't do anything. we don't have any resources and planes are flying by. We are scared of electricity and water cuts."

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He went on to say that food and water was running low but that no-one wanted to risk leaving the building.

A Nigerian student in Khartoum, who wished to remain anonymous, told the BBC that she managed to get out but had "never experienced anything like this in her life".

"We woke up to gunshots, it was really scary, we were panicking," she explained, as she fled from her accommodation and was told to get on a crowded bus to a safer location.

She said she managed to speak to her very worried parents.

"I spoke to my mum yesterday but she could literally hear the gunshots from my phone."

Schools and universities are calling on humanitarian organisations to help evacuate dozens of stranded people and students.

But Ghazali Babiker, Sudan's acting director for the medical charity Medecins Sans Frontieres, said that even aid agencies trying to help have been cut off.

"With this war no-one can walk out on the street. Everyone is trapped in their location," he said.
While Succession is ending, the chemistry between two of its stars is here to stay.

At least J. Smith-Cameron, who plays Waystar Royco general counsel Gerri Kellman on the HBO series, used Sundays premiere of her other series Waco: The Aftermath as an opportunity to keep it afloat  and made a flirty dig at Succession co-star Kieran Culkin by comparing him to his brother.

And [look] who i invited to it ... yes, thats right its RORY, the NICE Culkin, Smith-Cameron tweeted with a photo of her alongside Rory Culkin.

And who i invited to it (because he was so brilliant in the first series, Waco, as David Thibideau the guy who lived through and wrote the book (yes, thats right its RORY, the NICE Culkin) pic.twitter.com/nAJAFMLGzg  J. Smith-Cameron (@j_smithcameron) April 16, 2023

Succession fans are familiar with the on-screen chemistry between Smith-Cameron and Kieran Culkin, but they may not realize the characters fictional flirtations are rooted in real life.

Its nice to work with that lady, and you know, look at her, Culkin told The Associated Press during a red carpet event for Succession in 2021. How? Shes so alluring, I cant focus. Its a joy. No, Ive been friends with J for nearly 20 years or so.

Culkin added he was really excited when Smith-Cameron was cast, as the Kellman character was initially written to be a man, and said their chemistry just sorta happened on its own and grew during production  and ultimately altered the course of the show.

I would flirt with J. In the most obnoxious way, just to fuck around  but it never occurred to me that it would inform anything they wrote, Culkin told The Hollywood Reporter in 2021, adding that Smith-Cameron was a lovely scene partner and fantastic to work with.

This isnt the first time Smith-Cameron has initiated a cheeky back-and-forth with Culkin. The 65-year-old actor posted a selfie of her sharing a drink with her co-star in March 2022  and wrote that Culkins outstretched middle finger is gonna get stuck like that.

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While their relationship in the series currently appears to be collapsing, the pair jokingly locked lips during the 2022 SAG Awards after Succession won for best ensemble performance in a drama series, according to People.

Both Culkin and Smith-Cameron are taken, however, with the former married to model Jazz Charton and the latter to writer-director Kenneth Lonergan. But if her recent statements are to be believed, Smith-Cameron will continue the harmless flirtation forever.

We were kind of always flirting on set, she told Esquire in March. It was never for one second a real flirtation. It was that set-crush kind of thing.

Succession airs Sundays at 9 p.m. Eastern on HBO.

Related...
By Khalid Abdelaziz, Nafisa Eltahir and Humeyra Pamuk

KHARTOUM (Reuters) - Heavy gunfire shattered a 24-hour truce in Sudan on Tuesday shortly after it was due to take effect under U.S. pressure on warring military factions to halt fighting that has touched off a humanitarian crisis.

Loud shooting reverberated in the background of live feeds by Arab television news channels in the Khartoum capital region minutes after the agreed 6 p.m. (1600 GMT) onset of the ceasefire.

Warplanes were roaring in the skies above Khartoum, a Reuters reporter heard tanks firing shortly after the truce was due to take hold, and a resident told Reuters he heard an air strike being carried out in Omdurman, Khartoum's sister city on the opposite bank of the Nile river. Several witnesses reported a large army ground force entering the city from the east.

The regular army and the rival paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) issued statements accusing each other of failing to respect the ceasefire. The army's high command said it would continue operations to secure the capital and other regions.

"We have not received any indications here that there's been a halt in the fighting," United Nations spokesman Stephane Dujarric told a news briefing in New York.

The conflict between Sudan's military leader and his deputy on Sudan's ruling council erupted four days ago, derailing an internationally backed plan for a transition to a civilian democracy four years after the fall of Islamist autocrat Omar al-Bashir to mass protests and two years after a military coup.

The fighting has triggered what the United Nations has described as a humanitarian catastrophe, including the near collapse of the health system. The U.N.'s World Food Programme suspended operations after three of its employees were killed.

At least 185 people have been killed in the conflict.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, speaking in Japan, said on Tuesday he had telephoned both army chief General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and RSF leader General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, appealing for a ceasefire "to allow the Sudanese to be safely reunited with families" and to provide them with relief.

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Fighting had appeared to tail off close to the deadline for the ceasefire, which coincided with the evening breaking of the daily fast during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.

WARPLANES AND EXPLOSIONS

Earlier in the day, the sounds of warplanes and explosions echoed across Khartoum. Residents in the neighbouring cities of Omdurman and Bahri reported air strikes that shook buildings and anti-aircraft fire. Fighting also raged in the west of the country, the United Nations said.

In video verified by Reuters, RSF fighters could be seen inside a section of the army headquarters in Khartoum. The fighters did not appear to control the sprawling site, a Reuters reporter in the capital said.

Burhan heads a ruling council installed after the 2021 military coup and the 2019 ouster of Bashir, while Dagalo - better known as Hemedti - is his deputy on the ruling council.

Their power struggle has stalled the plan for a shift to civilian rule after decades of autocracy and military domination in Sudan, which sits at a strategic crossroads between Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Ethiopia and Africa's volatile Sahel region.

Unless controlled, the violence also risks drawing in actors from Sudan's neighbourhood who have backed different factions, and could play into competition for regional influence between Russia and the United States.

REPORTS OF SEXUAL ASSAULT

Fighters have attacked aid workers, hospitals and diplomats, including a European Union ambassador assaulted in his home.

U.N. aid chief Martin Griffiths said humanitarian relief workers and facilities were continuing to be targeted in Sudan and the United Nations was "receiving reports of attacks and sexual violence against aid workers".

"This is unacceptable and must stop," Griffiths posted on Twitter, adding that the U.N. aid office in South Darfur was also looted on Monday.

Three workers for the World Food Programme were killed in the fighting on Saturday, and a U.N. plane was hit in crossfire at Khartoum's international airport.

Blinken said a U.S. convoy was attacked despite its vehicles being marked with diplomatic licence plates and bearing U.S. flags. Initial reports suggest the attack was undertaken by RSF-associated forces, he said, calling the action "reckless". Blinken said all U.S. personnel were safe after the incident.

After the call with Blinken, Hemedti said the RSF approved the ceasefire to ensure the safe passage of civilians and the evacuation of the wounded.

In a post on Twitter, he said he and Blinken "discussed pressing issues" and more talks were planned. The RSF issued a statement saying it was waging a battle to restore "the rights of our people" in what it called a new revolution.

A previous, shorter ceasefire agreed for Sunday was widely ignored. Artillery volleys, strikes by combat aircraft and street fighting have made it almost impossible to travel in Khartoum, trapping residents and foreigners in their homes.

The main international airport has been under attack, halting commercial flights.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies said it was nearly impossible to provide humanitarian services around the capital. It warned that Sudan's health system was at risk of breakdown.

The outbreak of fighting followed rising tensions over a plan for the RSF's integration into the regular military.

Discord over the timetable for that process delayed the signing of the framework deal to launch a civilian transition that was due to be signed earlier this month.

The fighting has affected several parts of the country since Saturday, including the western desert region of Darfur, which borders Chad and suffered warfare from 2003 that killed as many as 300,000 people and displaced 2.7 million.

(Reporting by Khalid Abdelaziz in Khartoum, Nafisa Eltahir and Hatem Maher in Cairo, Humeyra Pamuk in Tokyo and Claudia Tanos in Dubai; writing by Frank Jack Daniel and Mark Heinrich; editing by Christina Fincher, Alex Richardson and Emelia Sithole-Matarise)
In a still image a video released Monday, a Cuyahoga Falls police cruiser dash camera shows Akron police chasing Jayland Walker onto the Route 8 southbound ramp at Tallmadge Avenue. State investigators said Walker fired one shot from his car moments later. He was shot and killed by Akron police a short time later on June 27, 2022.

Suicide by cop is a phrase used to describe people attempting to kill themselves by pushing law enforcement to use lethal force.

In 2019, experts estimated that about 100 of the 1,000 fatal police shootings in the U.S. every year are suicide by cop, The Washington Post reported.

Officers who kill someone in these situations are not automatically legally justified using lethal force, even if the person says they want to die.

In recent years, the Police Executive Research Forum, or PERF, has studied suicide by cop and developed a protocol to handle cases, hoping to reduce fatalities.

What does the BCI report say?: What we're learning from BCI investigation into Akron police shooting

Does the Jayland Walker case appear to be a possible suicide by cop?

State prosecutors said Monday they could not conclude Jayland Walker committed suicide by cop in Akron, although they did investigate that possibility.

The case has some of the the hallmarks of suicide by cop, based on PERF reports, including:

He was male. About 83% of people who attempt to die this way are men, according to PERF.

Walker was going through a crisis after his fiancee, Jaymeisha Beasley, died the month before in a car crash near Cincinnati. PERF data shows about 67% of people who attempt suicide by cop have confirmed or likely mental illness, with about 14% of those being depressed.

Walker, police say, fired a shot from his car window during a chase, which officers believed posed a threat and prompted police from all over Akron to join in the cross-city chase. One of the defining characteristics of suicide-by-cop incidents, PERF reports, are threats to officers' lives, or attempts to make officers believe the person poses such a threat.

And Walker, leaving a gun behind, abandoned his still moving car in a parking lot and ran from police, before turning for a split second and being shot 46 times by eight officers in uniform. One of the defining characteristics of suicide by cop is giving the officer no choice but to use lethal force to stop the threat, PERF said.

In the weeks after his fiancee's death, Walker searched Google for the quickest ways to die and drinking bleach, according to a prosecutor summary of the case released Monday by BCI. The report also states Euclid Capt. Mike Janson said Walkers best friend interviewed for a job there June 29. During the interview, the man told Janson and others that Walker had asked him how to get police to shoot him.

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This still image, taken from Akron police bodycam, shows Jayland Walker running from his car with a ski mask covering his face in the moments before eight officers shot him.

Senior Assistant Attorney General Anthony Pierson said there was no evidence that Walker committed "suicide by cop" but said Walker was going through a difficult time after the recent death of his fiancee.

"I don't want to speculate as to what Mr. Walker was thinking at the time, but I can say this, that it has been made public that Mr. Walker was going through a very tough time in his his life. I think it's been documented that Mr. Walker's fiancee had died a short time before this incident happened. And he was going through a very tough time. And he was hurting," Pierson said.

PERF, working with mental health and law enforcement officials, came up with protocol to help police deal with suicide-by-cop cases.

Jayland Walker shooting coverage: What do you need to know about the Jayland Walker police shooting? Here are the essentials

The first step is identifying these situations. Some indicators include:

Person says kill me or shoot me or expresses a wish to die.

Person appears distressed or in a mental health crisis.

Person is not behaving like most criminal offenders, for example not trying to leave a crime scene.

The person behaves strangely, like ramming a police car or vandalizing random objects.

In Walkers case, police would have no way of immediately knowing about the recent death of Walkers fiancee.

Akron police provided this still image taken from cameras showing a snapshot of the chase that later ended in Jayland Walker's shooting death last summer. Police circled a flash coming from the window of Walker's car, saying it showed Walker firing a gun during a police chase.

Fleeing a traffic stop and firing a weapon could fit a suicide-by-cop scenario, particularly since Walker didnt have a prior criminal record.

But fleeing can also signal to police that someone is worried about much more than a traffic stop and has something to hide, a warrant out for arrest or illegal drugs or weapons.

Jayland Walker case: Why local journalists matter for covering the Jayland Walker case from beginning to end

In the Walker case, after the cross-city car chase, things unfolded in seconds as Walker ran from his car, a ski mask covering his face.

A gaggle of police with guns and stun guns drawn ran after him, shouting orders at the same time before Walker turned and eight officers opened fire.

How should police respond to potential suicide-by-cop situations?

If police identify a potential suicide-by-cop case, FERC protocol urges officers to follow three steps:

Ensure officer and public safety. If subject has a gun, take cover and call for backup, a supervisor and any crisis intervention trained officers. Avoid pointing guns at a potentially suicidal person because it will increase his or her anxiety and exacerbate the situation. FERC instead advises police to consider keeping their guns unholstered, pointed at the ground. Stun guns or pepper spray can escalate the situation. One officer should communicate with the person and try to connect, to deescalate situation.

Moreover, if police think they have a suicide-by-cop incident, they should slow down, FERC protocol says. Do not think you need to resolve the incident quickly. If a persons life is at stake, there is nothing wrong with taking many hours to resolve it."

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Did Jayland Walker die by suicide by cop in Akron?
India is one of the countries most exposed and vulnerable to heat

In his best-selling 2020 novel, The Ministry for the Future, science fiction writer Kim Stanley Robinson opens with a deadly heatwave in India which kills millions of people.

The sky blazes like an "atomic bomb", the heat from it is a "slap in the face", the eyes sting and "everything was tan and beige and a brilliant, unbearable white". Water doesn't help because it is "hot as a bath worse than the air". People die "faster than ever".

Mr Robinson's dystopian tale about global heating might be a horror fantasy of sorts, but it is also a chilling warning. Earlier this week, 12 people died from heatstroke and many others were admitted to hospital after attending a government-sponsored event in an open ground under a blazing sun in Navi Mumbai in India's Maharashtra state.

India is one of the countries most exposed and vulnerable to heat. Hot days and hot night events have risen significantly, and are projected to increase between two and four-fold by 2050. Heatwaves are also predicted to arrive earlier, stay longer and become more frequent.

Twelve Indians died from heatstroke after attending an event in an open ground in Navi Mumbai on Sunday

The weather office has predicted above-average temperatures and heatwaves until the end of May. Average temperatures in India have risen by around 0.7% between 1901 and 2018, partly due to climate change.

Heatwaves killed more than 22,000 people between 1992 and 2015, according to official figures. Experts reckon the actual toll would be much higher. Yet, the country really "hasn't understood the importance of heat and how heat can kill", says Dileep Mavalankar, director of the Gujarat-based Indian Institute of Public Health. "This is partly because we don't compile our mortality data properly."

Prof Mavalankar should know. In May 2010, he found that the city of Ahmedabad had recorded 800 all-cause excess deaths - a measure of how many more people are dying than expected, compared to the previous few years - during a sweltering week of record-breaking temperatures. It was clear, he said, that heat was killing a lot of people. He said researchers compared the total number of deaths in the city to the maximum temperature recorded on the day, and laid down three colour coded alerts, with the red warning triggering above 45C.

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Prodded by these findings, Prof Mavalankar helped put together India's first heat action plan for the city of Ahmedabad. The plan kicked off in 2013 and advocated simple solutions like staying indoors, drinking lots of water before stepping out, and going to the hospital emergency if one felt sick. By 2018, he says, deaths from all causes had declined by a third in the hot, dry city.

heat

But the bad news is India's heat action plans don't seem to be working very well. (It is unclear whether the authorities in Navi Mumbai had a heat action plan in place when a million people reportedly were allowed to gather under the open sky.) A new study of 37 heat action plans at the city, district and state levels by Aditya Valiathan Pillai and Tamanna Dalal of Centre for Policy Research, a think-tank, found a lot of shortcomings.

For one, most of the plans were not "built for local context and have an oversimplified view of the hazards". Only 10 of the 37 plans studied seem to establish locally defined temperature thresholds, although it was unclear whether they took factors like humidity into account while declaring a heatwave. "We recommend nuancing and localising the heat hazard definition by including climate projections," Mr Pillai told me. One way to do it is to have more automated weather stations at village levels, according to Prof Mavalankar.

Second, the researchers found that nearly all the plans were poor at "identifying and targeting vulnerable groups". Farm and construction workers who toil in the open, pregnant women, the elderly, and children were most vulnerable to heat.

Some three-fourths of India's workers work in heat-exposed jobs like construction and mining. "Workers are losing the ability to safely and efficiently work outside as the planet warms. It's becoming too hot and humid for them to cool themselves enough when they generate a large amount of body heat when conducting heavy labour," says climate researcher Luke Parsons of Duke University, North Carolina.

This becomes worse during heatwaves as there are fewer safe and productive work hours during the day, he adds.

Ahmedabad was the first city in India to have a heat action plan

Mr Pillai says that India needs "granular understanding of which neighbourhoods have most people working in jobs where they are exposed to heat and whether they could afford to buy a cooler or afford to skip work". He adds: "You might have a situation where 3% of the area of the city contained 80% of the vulnerable population."

Also most of the heat action plans seem to be underfunded, had weak legal foundations with scant accountability, and were not sufficiently transparent, Mr Pillai and Ms Dalal found.

Heatwave solutions can often be simple - planting enough trees in extremely exposed and hot areas or using design choices to reduce heat gain and increase heat loss in buildings.

Sometimes simple surveillance solutions such as moving patients from a baking top floor to a lower floor of a non-airconditioned hospital can protect lives, as a study in Ahmedabad found. Having worker protections in place to stop or slow work if it is too hot can help so people don't feel the need to keep working at high intensity when it's not safe, says Mr Parsons.

India saw a 55% rise in deaths due to extreme heat between 2000-2004 and 2017-2021, a recent study published in the medical journal, The Lancet, found. Exposure to heat also caused a loss of 167.2 billion potential labour hours among Indians in 2021, resulting in loss of incomes equivalent to about 5.4% of the country's GDP.

But clearly, Indians are still not taking heat seriously enough.

According to reports, the place in Navi Mumbai where the government ceremony had taken place had recorded a maximum temperature of 38C (100F) on Sunday. Yet, photos of the event showed thousands sitting directly under the sun with no roof or covering to offer shelter. Only a few carried umbrellas, or wrapped towels on their heads.

"I live in Delhi where the temperature can touch 50C and I see very few people even bring out their umbrellas," Mr Pillai says.

BBC News India is now on YouTube. Click here to subscribe and watch our documentaries, explainers and features.

Read more India stories from the BBC:
Havent made it out to see the wildflowers yet this spring?

The superbloom has been spreading across California since late March, dusting its rolling hills and fields in giant swaths of gold, orange and blue flowers. And here on the Central Coast its been no different.

According to the Theodore Payne Foundation, which manages the popular Wild Flower Hotline where people can learn the weekly status of Californias blooms, the superbloom is in full swing across the region, with a variety of flowers on display.

From the massive, viewable-from-space bloom at Carrizo Plain National Monument to Santa Barbara Countys emerging bloom, heres a list of some of the best places to spot wildflowers on the Central Coast this spring, according to the Foundation.

Before you head out, make sure to check out our tips and advice here on how to responsibly enjoy the superbloom.

Tidy tips fill the foreground in California Valley as the Temblor range rises in background. Wildflower fans turned out along Highway 58 on April 7, 2023. A series of drenching atmospheric river storms filled creeks and made for a solid wildflower season.

Carrizo Plain National Monument

First things first: If you want guaranteed flowers and a grand spectacle, a trip out to the Carrizo Plain National Monument in eastern San Luis Obispo County is just the ticket.

This bloom is so large, in fact, that its been photographed by satellites, as seen in recently released images from NASA.

Visitors to the Carrizo Plain can expect to see a huge range of flowers, including yellow hillside daisies, goldfields, San Joaquin blazing stars, Great Valley phacelia, chick lupine, Valley larkspur, baby blue eyes, red maids, thistle sage and fire-red wind poppy, according to the Foundation.

Youll want to visit Carrizo Plain soon, the group warned, because the region is beginning the downside of peak bloom.

Grace Curtis of Sacramento poses for a photo by her sister Christine Wilson of San Luis Obispo in a field of wildflowers along Shell Creek Road, April 1, 2023.

Shell Creek Road

This is a beloved spot for most San Luis Obispo County residents. As you make your way down Highway 58 toward the Carrizo Plain, make sure to stop along Shell Creek Road for a hyper-local superbloom.

Here goldfields, lupines, poppies, tidytips and baby blue eyes line property nestled along the roadway, making a perfect not-too-far-of-the-way destination for those wanting to check out the blooms.

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The land is private property, however, and owner Daniel Sinton urges visitors to be respectful of that when taking in the flowers. At the start of this years wildflower season, Sinton told The Tribune he keeps the property open for people to enjoy the natural beauty, but asked for visitors to be conscientious when out there by obeying all signage. That includes reminding people to park off the road when they stop for a spell.

Like Carrizo Plain, this area also appears to be in the downswing of the bloom, so make sure to stop by soon to take it in.

For alternate viewing spots in the same area, check out Bitterwater Road and La Panza Road.

Figueroa Mountain

If youre looking for an area thats just getting started on its bloom, look no further than Figueroa Mountain in Santa Barbara County.

According to the latest Wild Flower Hotline update on April 14, the wildflowers are just now emerging below the ranger station on Figueroa Mountain Road, while higher up have not yet begun flowering because of cool temperatures.

Visitors can expect to see California poppies, California golden violets, yellow buttercups, blue fiesta flowers, sky lupines, pink canyon peas and shooting stars scattered around the region, according to the hotline.

Grass Mountain in the area is a particularly beautiful spot, according to the hotline, where visitors can take in the classic combination of orange poppies and lupines.

Be wary: the road sustained significant storm damage during the winter, but repairs are currently underway. Until that time, much of the higher elevation of the road is inaccessible.

Beau James Spraungel took this picture of wildflowers near Piedra Blancas Light Station north of Hearst Castle in San Simeon on Saturday, April 8, 2023.

Other Central Coast spots to check out

There are also smaller pockets of flowers scattered throughout the Central Coast, often in the vicinity of the regions highways, open spaces and recreational trails.

Some other places where wildflowers have been reported are in the Pismo Preserve, the poppy fields on the Pt. Buchon Trail at Montana de Oro State Park, San Simeon and South Hills and Irish Hills natural reserves outside of San Luis Obispo  though these blooms are significantly more sparse.

Know of other good superbloom viewing spots on the Central Coast? Email reporter Kaytlyn Leslie at kleslie@thetribunenews.com to have them featured in The Tribunes ongoing wildflower coverage.
(Getty Images)

Fox News is on trial in a Delaware courtroom standing accused of defaming a voting machine company in the aftermath of the 2020 presidential election.

A plaintiff must meet a high legal bar to prove that on-air statements were made with actual malice, the standard established by the US Supreme Courts 1964 ruling in New York Times v Sullivan that affirms strong First Amendment protections for the press when reporting on public officials and public figures.

This week, a judge will preside over one of the biggest-ever defamation cases against a media company, with a six-week jury trial involving a $1.6bn lawsuit from Dominion Voting Systems against the most-watched cable news network in the US.

The judge has already determined that on-air statements about the company in the wake of the 2020 presidential election were false. It will be up to a jury in Superior Court in Wilmington to determine whether they rise to actual malice  in other words, whether Fox knowingly presented false claims or did so with reckless disregard for the truth.

Attorneys for Fox argue that the network had a duty to report newsworthy claims, which were endorsed by then-President Donald Trump, and that Dominion has failed to meet the so-called Sullivan test  a precedent that right-wing figures have tried to overturn for years.

In the days after Mr Trumps loss in the 2020 election, Trump-connected figures floated conspiracy theories and other baseless claims about Dominion on air, claiming that the company was responsible for flipping or manipulating votes, had ties to Hugo Chavez and Venezuela, and provided kickbacks to election officials.

Hundreds of pages from Dominion show that top on-air personalities, producers and Fox Corporation leadership knew those segments were bogus. Those claims were false, and they were aired uncritically on the network, Judge Eric Davis determined.

Still, some legal analysts and press freedom advocates are wary of a courtroom determining what constitutes ethical reporting, and fear an outcome against Fox could have significant blowback in other newsrooms.

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In the Sullivan decision from nearly 60 years ago, justices on the nations highest court declared the profound national commitment to the principle that debate on public issues should be uninhibited, robust, and wide-open.

While Fox is relying on the constitutional safety net affirmed in the Sullivan case, the former president and other right-wing figures have spent years trying to undermine it.

The litigious former president sued The New York Times and CNN in an effort to eliminate precedent that limits the ability of public figures to launch potentially financially devastating lawsuits against the press.

Last last year, Mr Trumps lawyers in the CNN case argued that the precedent no longer merely provides breathing space for the occasional misstatement, but rather, offers a nearly impenetrable shield to the media, allowing it to publish defamatory statements targeting political enemies, without fear of consequence.

A lawsuit against CNN provides a perfect vehicle to strip First Amendment protections, his lawyers wrote in a recent filing.

The Trump campaigns lawsuit against The New York Times was dismissed, and CNN has sought to dismiss Mr Trumps challenge to the network. Mr Trumps lawsuit also suggested that the network is responsible for the rise of disinformation without addressing Mr Trumps own wave of bogus claims.

Delaware Superior Court Judge Eric Davis is depicted in a courtroom sketch presiding over the Dominion case on 17 April (AP)

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, whose administration has launched an aggressive campaign against the press, is supporting legislation that deliberately chips away at Sullivan and weaponizes defamation law to the point that it represents a death knell for American traditions of free speech, according to Bobby Block, executive director of the Florida First Amendment Foundation.

Last year, a judge and a jury separately shut down a case from former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin in her own attempt to sue The New York Times. A judge determined that no reasonable jury would find that the newspaper and the editor at the centre of the case acted with actual malice in publishing a 2017 editorial that referenced her political action committee.

Newspaper spokesperson Danielle Rhoades Ha said in a statement that the verdict was a reaffirmation of a fundamental tenet of American law: public figures should not be permitted to use libel suits to punish or intimidate news organizations that make, acknowledge and swiftly correct unintentional errors.

At least two conservative justices on the Supreme Court have also expressed a willingness to revisit the Sullivan precedent, which could wind up in front of the conservative-supermajority panel that has already overturned the half-century precedent from Roe v Wade.

What started in 1964 with a decision to tolerate the occasional falsehood to ensure robust reporting by a comparative handful of print and broadcast outlets has evolved into an ironclad subsidy for the publication of falsehoods by means and on a scale previously unimaginable, Justice Neil Gorsuch wrote in 2021.

The Sullivan standard emerged from a violent period in the civil rights movement in the early 1960s, when a city commissioner in Alabama sued The New York Times for defamation over an advertisement from civil rights groups that accused Southern police of waging an unprecedented wave of terror against them.

The ad did not even mention LB Sullivan, but an all-white jury panel in a courtroom presided over by a judge who wrote articles defending white supremacy awarded him $500,000.

Mr Sullivans target was not necessarily The New York Times or winning a defamation case but against the civil rights movement itself; he wrote at the time that if Negroes persist in flaunting their arrogance and defiance by congregating  the police will have no alternative but to take whatever action that might be necessary to disperse them.

But a unanimous Supreme Court opinion from Justice William Brennan overturned the verdict. The justices underscored the right of freely examining public characters and measures and established that libel lawsuits from public figures must meet a higher threshold than challenges from other plaintiffs.

Despite the judges assertion that Fox News knowingly presented false claims, statements from Fox News spokespeople to The Independent have warned that Dominions lawsuit presents an unprecedented assault on the First Amendment that could threaten the medias absolute right to cover the news.

Fox will continue to fiercely advocate for the rights of free speech and a free press as we move into the next phase of these proceedings, according to a statement.
HELSINKI (AP)  Swedens public radio said Tuesday that it would stop being active on Twitter, but it did not blame new labels that Elon Musk s social media platform has slapped on public broadcasters, leading some major North American outlets to quit tweeting.

Sveriges Radio said on its blog that Twitter has lost its relevance to Swedish audiences. National Public Radio and Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, meanwhile, have pointed to Twitters new policy of labeling them as government-funded instititutions, saying it undermines their credibility.

For a long time, Sveriges Radio has de-prioritised its presence on Twitter and has now made the decision to completely stop being active on the platform, at the same time that we are shutting down a number of accounts, said Christian Gillinger, head of the broadcaster's social media activities.

He cited a recent study showing only some 7% of Swedes are on Twitter daily and said the platform has simply changed over the years and become less important for us.

The audience has simply chosen other places to be. And therefore Sveriges Radio now chooses to deactivate or delete the last remaining accounts, Gillinger said.

The broadcaster's news service, SR Ekot, which has been labeled publicly funded media, will remain on Twitter but has been marked inactive.

Sveriges Radio, which has been active on Twitter since 2009, also noted the recent turbulence around Twitters operations and said it was worrying that the social media platform has reduced its workforce dramatically."

We believe that it may in the long run affect the companys capacity to handle, for example, fake accounts, bots and disinformation but also hate messages and threats, Gillinger said.

The labels for public broadcasters have unleashed a new battle between reporters and Musk, who has long expressed disdain for professional journalists and said he wants to elevate the views and expertise of the average citizen.

Canadas CBC said Monday that it would pause its activities on Twitter after it was labeled as government-funded" because it undermines the accuracy and professionalism of its journalists' work to allow our independence to be falsely described in this way.

U.S. broadcasters NPR and Public Broadcasting Service made similar decisions earlier this month for related reasons.
STOCKHOLM (Reuters) - Swedish Radio announced on Tuesday it was quitting Twitter, the first major European public broadcaster to join three from North America that abandoned the social media platform in the past week.

Swedish Radio said its decision had been made because Twitter had lost relevance for a Swedish audience, not blaming a new policy by Twitter under owner Elon Musk to label more public broadcasters as government funded.

"The audience has simply chosen other places to be. And therefore Sveriges Radio now chooses to deactivate or delete the last remaining accounts," Christian Gillinger, head of Social Media at Swedish Radio, said in a blog post.

U.S. broadcasters NPR and PBS and Canada's CBC quit Twitter in the past week after the social media company added new labels to their accounts designating them "government-funded media".

That change so far appears to have been applied in North America but not in Western Europe, where Swedish Radio, Britain's BBC and others are instead labeled "publicly-funded". Gillinger said Swedish Radio had no problem with its designation: "Based on the current definition, it's a correct description of how Swedish Radio is financed."

Major Western broadcasters argue that there is a clear difference between those that receive public funding but are editorially independent, and those that are run by governments.

By far Sweden's biggest radio company with 7.4 million weekly listeners in 2021, Swedish Radio has been on Twitter since 2009. It said Swedes' interest in Twitter had waned, citing a report it said showed only 7% of Swedes used Twitter daily, compared with 53% for Facebook and 48% for Instagram.

Gillinger said most accounts would be deleted and others would be labeled as inactive. Individual reporters working for Swedish Radio were still free to use Twitter as they please.

He said it was worrying, however, that Twitter had reduced its workforce and that it could negatively impact Twitter's ability to handle bots, disinformation and hateful content.

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"Of course, these are factors that also weigh in when we now decide to be editorially inactive on the platform," he said.

Twitter under Musk no longer operates a press office to respond to requests for comment.

(Reporting by Johan Ahlander; Editing by Peter Graff)
In the midst of the demonstrations at the state Capitol, hundreds of protesters packed into the confines of the old building, creating walls of shoulders and walls of sound as they chanted their support for the three Democratic lawmakers facing expulsion that day.

The ceiling rattled with chants and the floor shook with the stomping as the crowd  undulating like an oversized snake  coiled and hissed with each vote broadcasted on the TV monitors.

The overwhelming turnout on April 6 was just one snapshot of the demonstrations following The Covenant Shooting and subsequent expulsion of two Democratic lawmakers that placed the First Amendment  in all its power, complexity and even limitations  on full display for the nation to see.

Demonstrators chant slogans inside the Tennessee State Capitol in Nashville, Tenn., on Thursday, April 6, 2023.

Following the mass shooting at The Covenant School, demonstrations against gun violence sprang up across the state, but most prominently in Nashville. Reps. Justin Jones, D-Nashville, Justin Pearson, D-Memphis and Gloria Johnson, D-Knoxville, led their own protests on the House floor, breaking the chamber's rules to speak in support of stricter gun control measures during a House session on March 30.

The politics of expulsion: How Republicans handed Democrats a major win with historic vote

The pushback on the three Democrats came swiftly: a historic expulsion vote left Jones and Pearson ousted from their seats and Johnson left standing by merely one vote.

Its a great First Amendment argument, said Aftyn Behn, a local activist and demonstrator, wiping rain from her drawn hood as she stood with demonstrators outside the Capitol. We have three democratically elected officials who used their First Amendment rights on the floor, supporting others using their First Amendment rights, and yet theyre being expelled. Its not right.

Although Jones and Pearson have been reinstated via interim appointments, Tennessee Republicans received national criticism for the expulsion, along with mounting questions regarding the First Amendment rights of the lawmakers and whether they were violated by the GOPs retaliation.

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'At least symbolically, this was an assault on First Amendment,' expert says

Before his expulsion, Pearson sent a letter to his House colleagues, explaining he was using his First Amendment rights to help "elevate the voices in our community who want to see us act to prevent gun violence."

"We must always stand up for what we believe to be right and just, we must say no to more gun violence," he wrote.

Related: A week after expulsion, Justin Pearson of Memphis returns to Tennessee House

Related: Justin Jones returns to state legislature after unanimous Nashville Council appointment

But the First Amendment rights of a lawmaker speaking inside the legislature is more complex, legal experts say.

David Hudson, a Belmont University law professor and First Amendment expert, said a key case to study is a U.S. Supreme Court decision from 1966.

Bond v. Floyd is an extraordinary case that sets strong First Amendment precedent for legislators, even from 57 years ago, Hudson said.

Julian Bonds case holds similarities to todays case of the Tennessee Three, as they've become known. Bond, a young, Black, newly elected representative in the Georgia House of Representatives, was blocked from taking his elected seat from the majority-white body following statements made on a hot political issuein his case, his opposition to the Vietnam War.

Rep.-elect Julian Bond, seated, fumbles through his desk in Atlanta, on Jan. 10, 1966, after he was refused his seat in the Georgia House of Representatives Around him other Representatives raise their hands for the oath of office as they are sworn in. Bond, 25, became the center of a controversy when he endorsed a statement by the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee which charged the United States as being guilty of murder in Vietnam,

The case went all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court, which ruled in Bonds favor and the action against him a violation of his First Amendment rights  as well as those of his constituents.

The manifest function of the First Amendment in a representative government requires that legislators be given the widest latitude to express their views on issues of policy, wrote Chief Justice Earl Warren, who issued the courts opinion on the case. The central commitment of the First Amendment  is that debate on public issues should be uninhibited, robust, and wide-open. Just as erroneous statements must be protected to give freedom of expression the breathing space it needs to survive, so statements criticizing public policy and the implementation of it must be similarly protected."

Legislators have an obligation to take positions on controversial political questions so that their constituents can be fully informed by them, and be better able to assess their qualifications for office, Warren added. Also so they may be represented in governmental debates by the person they have elected to represent them.

But a key difference between Bonds case and the Tennessee Three is the timing of their statements. Bonds comments were made in a news interview outside the House chambers. Jones and Pearson broke House rules to use a bullhorn to lead the gallery in chants for gun control, resulting in a recess in legislative business.

The facts are different, but the larger principle is you cannot remove someone from a state legislature because of their political viewpoints, Hudson said. The GOP could try to claim that they (removed Jones and Pearson) because of the disruption. And that argument may succeed. But still, you're still doing the same thing. So I do think while Bond v. Floyd is not exactly on point for this case, there is a strong precedent that argues that the Tennessee leaders in the House overstepped their authority. I think that at least symbolically, this was an assault on First Amendment.

Lawmakers can face limits on speech

Kevin Goldberg, a First Amendment specialist at the Freedom Forum, said the difference between the two cases is vital to deciding if the expulsion is a historic violation of the First Amendment rights of the lawmakers, the GOP enforcing the House rules on decorum and order or an overly harsh punishment.

You hung us out to dry: Leaked audio shows hot tempers inside GOP caucus after expulsion vote

Constitutional rights trump anything else, he said. You can pass all the rules you want but if they attack the First Amendment, the First Amendment wins, even for legislators. But does that mean they can say and do every everything they want, whenever they want? No.

Goldberg said there are many instances where a lawmaker's right to freely speak can be limited, regardless of Bond v. Floyd and especially considering the venue in which they are speaking.

Justin Jones watches from the gallery as Gloria Johnson, D-Knoxville, speaks ahead of a vote to expel her from the House of Representatives at the Tennessee State Capitol in Nashville, Tenn., on Thursday, April 6, 2023.

The first limitation would be whether these three are considered public employees, Goldberg said. Because there's a concept called public employee speech that says when you're acting as a public employee, your First Amendment rights are limited because of your association with the government  because it might be perceived that you're talking for the government.But Goldberg said that this legal standard  determined by the court case Garcetti v. Ceballos in 2006  is unlikely to be used by the state of Tennessee as the reason to limit the legislators speech, considering one of the main arguable exceptions to this rule is the idea of protesting something thats a matter of public concern  matters like mass shootings.

Another limitation that Goldberg said could apply to the lawmakers right to speak is rather simple: whether they were engaged in unprotected areas of speech, like inciting violence.

If they engaged in unprotected areas speech, then their rights fall away entirely, Goldberg said. We're talking about incitement to imminent, lawless action. We're talking about fighting words. We're talking about true threats against other members of the legislature. I dont see any argument that can be made that (they did this).

Finally, Goldberg said where the speech took place is also applicable. Whether it is in a non-public or public forums can determine free speech limitations, he said.

The Capitol floor, called the well, is what we would probably call a non-public forum, he said. It's an area owned by the government that has not traditionally been open to free speech for all.

Non-public forums, defined by Perry Education Association v. Perry Local Educators Association in 1983, are areas that the state may reservefor its intended purposes, communicative or otherwise, as long as the regulation on speech is reasonable and not an effort to suppress expression merely because public officials oppose the speakers view.

This rule, Goldberg said, puts the argument right back where it started  the state can claim that the space is non-public, where they have a right to limit the legislators free speech in the interest of decorum. But the ruling, and subsequent punishments, have to be applied evenly  which is where Goldberg said he believes the state runs afoul.

I think the argument on the side of the legislators will be that the application of these restrictions, in the form of expulsion and censure, is applied in an overbroad way, he said. What we're talking about here is viewpoint discrimination: you've treated these three on this side of the issue differently than you might have treated people who might be against gun control.

In essence, Goldberg said the state may have an arguable right to limit expression of free speech on the floor  but the First Amendment violation comes not in the limitation itself, but in the consistency of punishment for violations of these limitations.

I think that that going from zero to 60, so to speak, and kicking two members out is what we would call overbroad, Goldberg said. There's a whole lot of actions that can, and probably should have been, taken in the middle. And frankly, a whole lot of actions that would probably have been applied to others, and historically have been applied to others, and not applied in this case. So these three could not have predicted they would have gotten in trouble for engaging in a First Amendment-based action. Thats a defense in itself.

One thing that was not up for debate, however, was the overwhelming display of the First Amendment from the thousands of demonstrators that rallied at the Capitol over the past few weeks.

It's just great that so many people come out and use nonviolent protest, and the right of assembly, to try to affect change on an issue, Goldberg said. It was multigenerational, and I love seeing kids protest. Its why we do this work: that the freedom for each generation continues, that this tradition we've had in the country of love of assembly of speech, and of petitionall five rights that came squarely into play here.

The USA Today Network - Tennessee's coverage of First Amendment issues is funded through a collaboration between the Freedom Forum and Journalism Funding Partners.

Have a story to tell? Reach Angele Latham by email at alatham@gannett.com, by phone at 731-343-5212, or follow her on Twitter at @angele_latham

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Tennessee three: The First Amendment was front and center during expulsion
Tarrant County commissioner Roy Brooks blamed County Judge Tim OHare for breaking the system at Tuesdays county commissioners meeting.

The comment came as OHare announced he would call an elections board meeting to discuss replacing outgoing election administrator Heider Garcia, who resigned following a meeting with OHare. In his resignation letter, Garcia said he would not compromise his values.

The system was not broken ... It was broken by the hand of you, Judge OHare, Brooks said.

In his resignation letter, Garcia wrote his formula to administer a quality transparent election stands on respect and zero politics and that compromising on those values wasnt an option for him.

You made it clear in our last meeting that your formula is different, thus, my decision to leave, Garcia wrote. I wish you the best; Tarrant County deserves that you find success.

After Brooks comment, OHare asked the longtime commissioner to explain to the public how he broke the system.

Brooks told OHare that the only evidence he had for breaking the elections system was the line in Garcias letter about his meeting with the county judge and their disagreements with administering transparent and nonpolitical elections. He told OHare that if his hand-picked successor did not see the same success as Garcia then Tarrant County would not be well-served.

After Brooks comment, OHare said Garcia chose to resign on his own and wanted to respect the conversation they had because Garcia had asked him to keep it quiet.

It was a surprise to me when it wasnt quiet, OHare said.

OHare said he will ask the county attorney how to go about communicating whats going on without violating open meetings law. The county judge also chairs the countys elections board.

I will do exactly what I did on that day, OHare said. I wish him nothing but success and wish him well. And Im not going to air dirty laundry, but if I get approval to speak to one of you individually as to what happened Im happy to do so.

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Other commissioners thanked Garcia for his service.

Elections by nature are political, and they are polarizing, commissioner Manny Ramirez said. But I dont think the administration of those elections should be either.

Ramirez hoped the elections board would move quickly to find a capable and competent successor. Commissioner Alisa Simmons called Garcias resignation concerning and terrifying.

Ramirez, who found out about Garcias resignation when he was called by the Star-Telegram for comment Monday, said that while the county had good reporters, county administration had a communication problem.

OHare had planned to have a closed-door meeting to discuss the election administrators performance following the May 6 election, he told True Texas Project members during an April 10 meeting.

Garcia will stay in his position until June 23 to allow his staff to complete duties surrounding May 6 municipal elections and potential runoffs. Early voting begins April 24.

Poll book approval

Tension over Tarrant Countys elections continued in a different way when commissioners approved a new electronic poll book system for the countys elections office Tuesday. A poll book is used to keep track of registered voters who have cast ballots.

OHare asked many questions of assistant elections administrator Troy Havard, namely about the benefits of the system and whether it would be difficult to conduct municipal elections without the system in place. Havard said not having an electronic system would make it easy for voters who voted in one location to cast a vote at another location.

Garcia was not present at Tuesdays meeting.

Karen Wiseman, the woman who put a letter asking whether one Fort Worth resident cast their vote at a Stop Six voting location in their mail box, told the commissioners the new system was hackable. She asked whether it would be appropriate to have the new elections administrator pick their own system.

Another woman who did not identify herself spoke in favor of doing manual poll books and said it would not be easy to go vote in another location with a manual system. Her comments drew cheers from some audience members.

And when the county unanimously approved the new system, there were gasps from the same audience members.

Are you kidding me? one woman said.
Named Trinity, the T. rex is said to be one of the biggest and best specimens in the world

A skeleton of a 67 million-year-old Tyrannosaurus rex has been sold to a private individual for 5.55 million Swiss francs ($6.2m; 5m).

This is the first time a T. rex has been auctioned in Europe.

The specimen has been described as ''one of the most spectacular T. rex skeletons in existence'', measuring 11.6m long and 3.9m tall.

Scientists are concerned about the increasing number of dinosaur fossils ending up in private collections.

It's not the first auction of T. rex, or the highest price fetched, but such sales are relatively rare.

Last year a T. rex skeleton which was expected to fetch up to $25m (21m) at auction was withdrawn after doubts were raised over where parts of it had come from.

The name of this skeleton is "293 Trinity", because it is built from three different T. rexes from US dinosaur sites in Montana and Wyoming. It is made up of 293 separate bones from specimens retrieved between 2008 and 2013.

Why did T.rex have puny arms?

What did dinosaurs sound like?

Most auctioned dinosaur skeletons are made up partly of casts or replacements but more than half of 293 Trinity is real bone, a relatively high percentage.

It was sold at the Koller auction house in Zurich. In an interview for the firm's website, Dr Hans-Jacob Siber of The Aathal Dinosaur Museum in Switzerland, described Trinity as a "special beast".

"There are only 20 or 30 good T. rex skeletons in the world and this is one of the bigger and better ones," he said.

The T. rex's skull is especially well preserved

The dinosaur was bought by a private individual and will remain in Europe, according to a spokesperson for the auction house.

Koller hopes it will go on public display, but it is not clear at this stage what the owner's plans are.

Prof Steve Brusatte, a dinosaur expert at Edinburgh University, told BBC News that he was concerned that increasing numbers of dinosaur specimens were finding their way into private hands.

"Most museums can't compete with the deep pockets of the oligarchs and the super-rich," he said.

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"What worries me is that these very rare dinosaur skeletons, which are scientifically very valuable and are important for education and public engagement disappear into the vaults of private collectors which means that they are not available for public display."

But Dr Dennis Hansen of the Zoological Museum in Zurich said that he believed that many privately owned dinosaur specimens eventually end up being available to the public.

"I see it the same way as art. Art historians would like every single important painting to be available in the public ream, but experience shows that sooner or later it ends up in the public domain".

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Four years ago, Crystal Mason sat in a Tarrant County courtroom, surrounded by family members and supporters, as attorneys and justices argued about whether she committed voter fraud.

On Tuesday, she found herself back in the same room in the Court of Appeals for the Second District of Texas. Once again, she and dozens of other observers in the gallery listened to complex legal arguments surrounding a single provisional ballot that Mason cast. Mason, who is from Rendon, cast the ballot in the 2016 election  provisional ballots are meant to allow a person to cast a potential vote, with its eligibility to be counted to be determined later, even if their name does not appear on the list of registered voters.

The ballot was not counted, and Mason said she was unaware she was not allowed to vote. But in March 2018, Mason was convicted of illegal voting and sentenced to five years in prison. In May 2019, the American Civil Liberties Union of Texas, the ACLU Voting Rights Project, and the Texas Civil Rights Project joined Masons legal team, and in July 2019, Mason was released from prison. The case made its way up to the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals, which ordered the Second Court of Appeals to revisit the case.

The subsequent legal battle has drawn national attention and bipartisan support from leaders who say Masons case is an example of how voter fraud claims are used to suppress voters.

Ms. Mason and her family have been burdened by this for far too long, Savannah Kumar, ACLU of Texas attorney, said in a statement about Tuesdays hearing. We believe that what is right will ultimately prevail and the court system should overturn this unwarranted conviction, as we explained once again in court today.

In May 2022, Mason said in a statement that her life has been upended for what was, at worst, an innocent misunderstanding of casting a provisional ballot that was never even counted. I have been called to this fight for voting rights and will continue to serve my community.

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Crystal Mason is a Tarrant County resident. She is represented by the American Civil Liberties Union of Texas, the national ACLU, and the Texas Civil Rights Project, along with criminal defense attorneys Alison Grinter and Kim Cole.

Appeals hearing

In March 2020, three justices on the Court of Appeals for the Second District of Texas denied Masons appeal, although the court agreed she did not know she was ineligible to vote.

But in May 2022, the Court of Criminal Appeals found that the Second District Court of Appeals had erred. In a brief, the Court of Criminal Appeals said the court failed to require proof that Mason actually knew it was a crime for her to vote while on supervised release.

That proof was the subject of Tuesdays arguments before the same three justices who issued the 2020 opinion: Justices J. Wade Birdwell, Dabney Bassel and Elizabeth Kerr.

Sophia Lakin, an ACLU attorney on Masons legal team, began her legal arguments at about 1:30 p.m. Tuesday. She said the state has failed to prove that Mason knew she was not allowed to vote, and her glancing at a section in the provisional ballot that addresses voter eligibility is not proof that she read it. Even if she did read it, she may not have understood the implications.

In the provisional ballot Mason filled out in 2016 (in which she was assisted by a poll worker), she signed an affidavit that included a small passage essentially saying the voter acknowledges they are not currently on probation.

The state has argued, and continued to argue Tuesday, that her signature is evidence that she knew she was not eligible to vote.

In a notable exchange Tuesday, Justice Birdwell asked the states attorney where in the provisional ballot does it say the voter is disqualified from voting if they are on probation or federally supervised release.

The states attorney was silent for several seconds.

Ill help you out, Birdwell said. It doesnt... There is nothing in this that tells her the consequence of her eligibility to vote.

Masons attorneys also argue that an election law passed in 2021 supports the reversal of Masons conviction. The law, Senate Bill 1, says a person accused of illegal voting cannot be convicted based solely on the fact that they signed the provisional ballot affidavit and voted; the bill says there must be additional, corroborating evidence that the person knew they could not cast a ballot and did so anyway.

In its brief, the Court of Criminal Appeals wrote that it agrees with the state that changing the state law alone doesnt decriminalize Masons conduct, but said it also agrees with Masons attorneys that actual knowledge of ones ineligibility is an element of the offense of illegal voting.

The states attorney pointed out that Mason would have received a notice in the mail that she was not eligible to vote while on supervised release. Kerr asked if there was evidence that Mason read it, and the attorney said no, but that is not required under the law.

A campaign of voter suppression

Masons case, said Barbara Arnwine, president and founder of the Transformative Justice Coalition, has been used to bludgeon Black voters and further a campaign of voter suppression.

Arnwine and Daryl Jones, a former prosecutor and member of the Transformative Justice Coalition, have been involved with Masons case almost since the beginning and flew from Washington D.C. to Texas to attend Tuesdays hearing. They said Masons case exemplifies voter suppression tactics, especially against Black voters, and has a chilling effect on other potential voters.

Millions of people who have the right to vote do not do so, they said, because they have a former conviction and are not certain of their rights or afraid of repercussions.

In February, a bipartisan group of former state and federal prosecutors, led by the States United Democracy Center, filed an amicus brief urging the Second Court of Appeals in Fort Worth to reverse Masons conviction. Sarah Saldana  a States United advisory board member and former U.S. attorney for the Northern District of Texas, was one of those who signed the brief.

The provisional system worked in Crystal Masons case, and Ms. Masons penalty should have been not having her voted counted  which is what happened, Saldana said in a statement. This is a misuse of prosecutorial power that could have a chilling effect on minority voters participation in elections.

Saldana and Matt Orwig, another former U.S. Attorney in Texas, wrote in a column published in the Star-Telegram that Masons prison sentence is far harsher than other cases involving flagrant violation of Texas election laws.

For example, in 2018, Justice of the Peace Russ Casey, who pleaded guilty to turning in fake signatures to get on the ballot for re-election, received probation. In Harris County, two women admitted they cast a ballot in another persons name in 2016. They were sentenced to one day in prison each.

As former U.S. attorneys who served in Texas  one in a Republican administration, one in a Democratic administration  we believe that the freedom to vote, faith in our elections and a fair justice system are not partisan issues, they wrote. They are pillars of our democracy. Texas Second Court of Appeals in Fort Worth can strengthen these principles later this month when it examines Masons case.
To celebrate the end of tax season, several restaurants and establishments are offering deals and freebies. | Mark Lennihan, Associated Press

Tax season is coming to an end, and businesses want to help stressed taxpayers celebrate. On Tax Day, which falls on April 18, a few restaurants are offering deals and freebies. Heres a running list of deals.

Note: This list will be updated as more deals come in.

Tax Day deals 2023

Brio Italian Grille

Brio Italian Grille is offering an 18% discount on dine-in and to-go orders with the code TAXDAY2023 on April 18, according to information sent to the Deseret News.

Buca di Beppo

Buca di Beppo is offering an 18% discount on dine-in and to-go orders with the code TAXDAY2023 on April 18, according to information sent to the Deseret News.

Cheesecake Factory

Customers who spend $50 on an online order can get $10.40 off with the promo code TAXDAY1040. The deal runs through April 21.

Krispy Kreme

On April 18, customers who purchase an assorted or glazed dozen at regular price can get a second glazed dozen for the cost of the sales tax. If you order online and use the promo code TAXBREAK, you can get the second dozen for free, according to Krispy Kremes website.

Potbelly

Potbelly Sandwich Shop is doing a buy-one-get-one-free deal on its original-sized sandwiches on April 18, according to its website. Customers can use the code BOGO to access the deal online or through the restaurants app.
The tax filing deadline is quickly approaching. Thanks to April 15 falling on a weekend and April 17 being the District of Columbias Emancipation Day, the usual deadline has been pushed to April 18 this year. While many people have their tax filings all squared away, some procrastinators are still scrambling to get their filings complete in the final hours of tax season.

If you fall into that, to-be-completed group of taxpayers you may just be in luck. There are some lesser-known deductions that could potentially save you dollars when you do finally file. Most taxpayers are familiar with common deductions such as charitable donations and mortgage interest, but you may be able to also claim deductions for hair and beauty products. It is important to note that not all deductions will apply to every taxpayer. Its always wise to consult a tax professional to ensure accurate and appropriate filings. Here are some hair and beauty tax deductions 21Ninety has found.

Body Oil

According to the tax court, bodybuilders, who are professional,s can claim the ordinary and necessary expenses related to their profession as itemized deductions. That may may include body oil. However, expenses for food and supplements used to attain a muscular physique are non-deductible expenses. It is important to note the limitations regarding tax deductions can vary based on the jurisdiction and specific circumstances. Always talk to an accountant to verify what works in your situation.

Elective Surgery

According to some reports, cosmetic surgery could potentially be deductible! In 1988, a tax court allowed adult entertainers to claim a tax deduction for breast augmentation surgery. The case involved a stripper who initially had her deduction claim of $2,088 denied by the IRS. Upon appeal, the tax court accepted it. The court found that the surgery could be considered a legitimate business expense. The ruling said the surgery had the potential to increase the strippers income by generating bigger tips and profits.

Story continues

Hair Color

Certain personal features can be a business expense if utilized in the same manner. According to Business News Daily, a woman named Bobbi Baehne is the perfect example of this deduction.

Baehne is the President of Think Big Go Local. She decided to dye her hair purple for a convention and has maintained the color ever since. Her purple hair has become synonymous with the companys branding, as she is considered the face of the business. Baehne shared that her accountant informed her that her purple hair has become an integral part of the companys brand and serves as advertising for their services. As a result, she is entitled to deduct the $200 as well as the amount she spends monthly to maintain her hair color as a business expense. If you have any physical attributes that are important to your business, it could be time to have a talk with your accountant

Gym Membership

If you have a gym membership, it can be classified as a tax-deductible medical expense. To do so, you need to meet certain benchmarks. First, you must have a diagnosis of a specific medical condition from a licensed doctor. Second, the gym facility must be used as a treatment for that condition.

The post Tax Procrastinators, Here Are Some Hair And Beauty Deductions Allowed By The IRS appeared first on 21Ninety.
A Texas middle school teacher fired last week after she was alleged to have encouraged students in her class to fight has been arrested on suspicion of child endangerment, police said Monday.

Natally Garcia, 24, of Dallas, was booked into jail Monday afternoon in connection with the fights, according to police and inmate records. No bail amount was listed.

Garcia was arrested based on a warrant that listed four counts of child endangerment, police in Mesquite, the Dallas suburb where the fights took place, said in a statement.

Kimbrough Middle School in Mesquite, Texas. (Google maps)

It wasn't clear whether Garcia has obtained legal counsel. The Dallas County public defender's office and the Mesquite Education Association have not responded to requests for comment.

The counts correspond to NBC Dallas-Fort Worth reporting, including cellphone video that captured some of the fighting, which found four students paired off to brawl in two bouts at Kimbrough Middle School on Wednesday.

The Mesquite Independent School District alleged in a statement Friday that the teacher, who had not been publicly identified at the time, outlined the rules of engagement and ordered a student to watch the door.

It said that an internal investigation was launched not long after the fights and that, by Thursday, the substitute teacher had been fired. The teacher had been employed since early March, the district said.

The fighting in a class of 12- and 13-year-olds was exposed, in part, by parent Beatriz Martinez, who released her daughter's cellphone video of some of the brawling.

She told NBC Dallas-Fort Worth she was glad her daughter rejected taunting by fellow students who wanted her to join in.

The station reported that some of the fighters emerged bloodied, although no serious injuries have been reported.

Just two days before the fighting, a Florida teacher was charged with contributing to the delinquency of a minor after she was alleged to have facilitated classroom fights at her Tallahassee middle school, according to court documents.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
A 59-year-old teacher has been arrested after he was accused of sexually assaulting a former middle school student in the early 2000s, Colorado officials said.

A former student at Cache La Poudre Middle School in LaPorte contacted authorities in January on two separate occasions to report that Robert Denise had sexually assaulted him in the early 2000s, according to a news release by the Larimer County Sheriffs Office.

Cache La Poudre Middle School did not return McClatchy News request for comment.

Denise, who is listed as a social studies teacher on the schools website, has been employed at the school since 1995 and is accused of touching the victim on several occasions, deputies said.

After further investigating, Denise was arrested and charged with sexual assault on a child by one in a position of trust, according to the release.

He was booked into the Larimer County Jail on April 16, officials said.

Due to the nature of the charges and the suspects job, investigators are concerned that other victims may exist, deputies said in the news release. Anyone with information about unreported inappropriate conduct or abuse involving this suspect is encouraged to contact Investigator Ryan Gebhardt at 970-498-5586.

LaPorte is about 70 miles north of Denver.

Teacher sexually assaulted students, Connecticut cops say. One kept count in notebook

15-year-old twins sexually assaulted by older sisters boyfriend, Pennsylvania cops say

School bus driver kissed, touched girls breast through her clothes, Florida cops say
Southwest Airlines Boeing 737s are seen at San Diego International Airport. (Howard Lipin / San Diego Union-Tribune)

More than 2,100 Southwest Airlines flights were delayed Tuesday by technical problems with the embattled air carrier's systems.

The Federal Aviation Administration paused Southwest departures at the airline's request Tuesday morning while the company worked to resolve "data connection issues resulting from a firewall failure," a Southwest spokesperson said in a statement.

"Early this morning, a vendor-supplied firewall went down and connection to some operational data was unexpectedly lost," the statement said.

By 8:10 a.m. Pacific time, the FAA said, service had resumed, although the effects of the pause continued to push back departure times.

At least 2,192 Southwest flights were delayed in the U.S. by 2:25 p.m., representing more than half of its scheduled departures, according to flight tracking service FlightAware.

The delays come after the airline experienced a historic meltdown in December, forcing Southwest to cancel more than half of its flights over a week.

After the disruptions, Chief Commercial Officer Ryan Green pledged that the company would do everything we can, and work day and night to repair our relationship with you. Southwest said it would invest more than $1 billion to upgrade its IT system.

Delayed Southwest passengers aired their frustrations with the airline on social media Tuesday.

"Ive been sitting on a plane from Las Vegas to San Diego for 2 hours waiting for a 'weather report,'" one person wrote on Twitter. "This 45 minute flight will now take 4 hours. What a complete joke and waste of time."

"Sitting on the tarmac at Midway due to a computer problem causing a @SouthwestAir nationwide ground stop," another wrote. "Airlines require systems that have 99.999% uptime. Time to install some new IT leadership that takes availability culture seriously."

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Two Iowa teenagers admitted helping ambush and kill their high school Spanish teacher who was beaten to death in a park with a baseball bat. Both pleaded guilty Tuesday to first degree murder.

Prosecutors said Willard Miller and Jeremy Goodale carried out the 2021 attack on Nohema Graber because of a bad grade she had given Miller. The two were 16 at the time.

Evidence shows both Miller and Goodale struck the 66-year-old teacher while she was taking her regular after-school walk, prosecutors say. Miller admitted helping plan and carry out the killing but denied ever hitting Graber. Goodale testified that Miller initiated the plan to kill Graber and each of them struck her.

The Fairfield High School teacher's body was found hidden in the park under a tarp, wheelbarrow and railroad ties. The town of Fairfield is home to some 9,400 people and is around 100 miles (160 kilometers) southeast of Des Moines.

As part of an agreement with Miller, prosecutors will recommend a sentence between 30 years and life in prison, with the possibility of parole. For Goodale, prosecutors said they'll recommend a sentence between 25 years and life with the possibility of parole.

Goodale testified that they planned the killing for about two weeks, after Miller recruited him to help. Goodale had previously agreed to testify against Miller at his trial, which was expected to begin later this week.

"On Nov. 2 of 2021, I met Willard Miller at Chautauqua Park, and I understood that he had intent to kill Mrs. Graber, Goodale said as he entered his plea. He said Miller brought a bat among other supplies to go through with the murder.

After he had struck Nohema Graber, he then moved her off of the trail where I then struck her and she died as a result, Goodale said. Afterwards, we removed any evidence that we could.

The two were charged as adults because of the severity of the crime, but they werent subject to a mandatory sentence of life without parole because they were 16. Willard is now 17 and Goodale is 18.

Story continues

Investigators have said that Miller met with Graber at the high school on the afternoon of Nov. 2, 2021, to discuss his poor grade in her class. Graber later drove her van to a park where she was known to take walks after work, authorities say. Witnesses saw her van leaving the park less than an hour later with two males in the front seat.

The van was left abandoned at the end of a rural road. After getting a phone call from Goodale, a witness later picked up Goodale and Miller as they walked to town on that road, investigators say.

Goodale and Miller were initially detained after a witness provided police with photos of a Snapchat conversation in which Goodale allegedly implicated himself and Miller in the killing.

In a police interview, Miller described the frustrations he had with the way Graber taught Spanish and how the grade in her class was lowering his GPA.

___

This story has been updated to correct Goodale's age to 18, not 17.
Shanghai's governance capability strengthened by development of primary-level democracy

09:58, April 18, 2023 By Liu Shi'an ( People's Daily

Photo shows the Chunjiang residential complex after renovation in Wuliqiao sub-district, Huangpu district of Shanghai. (Photo from the government of the Huangpu district)

In Shanghai, various approaches have been forged to build democracy at the primary level, which enable citizens to make suggestions or advice and conduct broad consultation centering on issues concerning their own interests and rights.

This well coordinates interests of different parties, resolves disputes and makes the urban communities more stable and harmonious.

The Chunjiang residential complex in Wuliqiao sub-district, Huangpu district of Shanghai was built nearly 40 years ago. It was once troubled by a series of problems, such as a dilapidated carport for non-motorized vehicles and pitted fitness paths.

The residents had a strong aspiration to renovate the complex, said Zhang Chengjun, Party head of the Longhua neighborhood of Wuliqiao, which administers the Chunjiang residential complex. However, residents' opinions and interests varied, Zhang told People's Daily, saying it's a problem that often hinders the renovation of old residential complexes.

In 2019, the Chunjiang residential complex started employing a system that combines hearings, coordination meetings and appraisal meetings to improve its living environment.

The renovation of the residential complex concerned the practical interests of all the 300 households living in it, so it was important to maximize the convergence of interests.

Staff communicate with residents on a project of old residential complex renovation in Zhangmiao neighborhood, Baoshan district, Shanghai. (Photo from the government of the Baoshan district)

Therefore, the Party branch and neighborhood committee of the Longhua neighborhood decided to solicit opinions from all residents, and a renovation plan was finalized and announced after hearings joined by residents.

The renovation needed huge coordination efforts. For instance, the upgrading of water supply facilities in the residential complex was a big project, and relevant excavations might inconvenience the residents. Besides, renovating the pump house would probably cut off the water supply.

After rounds of negotiations and discussions, the residents had finally reached consensus to ensure the smooth progress of the renovation project.

As the renovation was about to be finished in September 2020, the residential complex hosted an appraisal meeting, inviting the resident representatives, the property management company and the residents' committee to evaluate the renovation results.

The residential complex, apart from introducing the system that combines hearings, coordination meetings and appraisal meetings, has adopted responsibility, commitment and notification systems. Before the renovation started, it hosted meetings for soliciting public opinions, negotiations and better oversight.

"These all well explained the consultative democracy at the primary level," said Zhang Qian, deputy director of the Wuliqiao sub-district committee.

By practicing whole-process people's democracy, Shanghai has connected democratic elections, consultations, decision-making, management and oversight, solving a large batch of problems that needed to be addressed for the people.

A senior citizen takes a barrier-free elevator on a pedestrian overpass in Shanghai. (People's Daily Online/Yang Jianzheng)

Dong Yunhu, director of the Standing Committee of the Shanghai Municipal People's Congress, noted that Shanghai, with a strong sense of responsibility and a sense of mission, will keep innovating ideas, measures and carriers, so as to build Shanghai into the best example for practicing the whole-process people's democracy.

Shanghai has built more than 5,500 contact points where citizens can communicate with deputies to the Shanghai Municipal People's Congress and the National People's Congress (NPC). Thanks to these contact points, a batch of pressing difficulties and problems that were of great concern to the people were resolved. Over the past five years, 43,000 meetings, communications and talks were held between deputies and citizens in the contact points.

The Shanghai Municipal Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) has kept following the resolution of major livelihood issues over the recent years. It has conducted special oversight on the renovation and renewal of old residential complexes and buildings for three consecutive years.

It has launched special inspection on the implementation of 16 livelihood projects, which was joined by 813 members of the committee. A general inspection report and 16 sub-report were delivered, and 485 suggestions made, which largely promoted the implementation of policies and decisions made by the municipal government.

Focusing on the drafting of nearly 100 regulations, such as Shanghai's municipal data regulation, urban renewal regulation and residential property management regulation, the CPPCC Shanghai Municipal Committee has organized its members to join the consultation on legislative issues, so as to make legislation more science-based and democratic.

(Web editor: Chang Sha, Du Mingming)
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP)  Tennessee budget writers on Tuesday said they will funnel $20 million of taxpayer dollars to help fund anti-abortion centers, marking a dramatic reduction from the original $100 million proposed by Gov. Bill Lee several months prior.

After a considerable conversation, both negotiating teams agreed that we would leave $20 million in the budget for crisis pregnancy centers," said state Sen. Bo Watson, chairman of the Senate Finance, Ways and Means Committee. "We would also like to have further discussions on exactly who these crisis pregnancy centers are and what they do.

In January, Lee, a Republican, announced during his annual address to the General Assembly that he wanted to create a $100 million grant program for nonprofits commonly known as crisis pregnancy centers. The amount immediately raised eyebrows because it would have launched Tennessee as among the top states spending tax dollars on such organizations known for dissuading people from getting an abortion.

Yet even reducing the amount to $20 million for crisis pregnancy centers is still relatively higher compared with other states that send public funds to these types of organizations. While Texas set aside $50 million during the 2021-2022 fiscal year, states like Pennsylvania spent around $7 million and Missouri budget around $6.5 million. Meanwhile, an Associated Press tally based on state figures found that public spending on crisis pregnancy centers has significantly jumped over the past 10 years as the fight over abortion access has only intensified.

Critics of these centers often accuse them of providing misleading information about abortion and contraception  for example, suggesting that abortion leads to mental health problems or breast cancer. But proponents argue that these centers provide essential social services offered to women who would otherwise remain pregnant but were unaware of the help they could receive. Some offer counseling and classes in parenting skills, as well as clothing and food.

Story continues

Lee's push to have the state help support crisis pregnancy centers came as criticism was swirling around Tennessee's abortion ban  considered among the strictest in the United States  which had just gone into effect a few months prior because of the U.S. Supreme Court revoking the constitutional right to abortion.

In the months since, Republican lawmakers have advanced legislation that would add a narrow exemption to the state's abortion ban. Lee has yet to sign the bill, but he did enact legislation that bans local government from using public funds to assist public employees in receiving abortion services, including services out-of-state.

Tennessee lawmakers are moving quickly to finalize the budget proposal as part of their push to adjourn by the end of the week after receiving national scrutiny over the expulsion of two young Black lawmakers, as well as facing pressure to address gun control in the wake of six people being killed in a Nashville school shooting.
PORTSMOUTH  The firearms and ammunition 25-year-old Kyle Hendrickson allegedly had when threatening to "shoot up" Portsmouth High School last week has local residents and leaders feeling like their worst nightmare easily could have become reality.

"The guy had guns, body armor," Portsmouth Mayor Deaglan McEachern. "That's pretty nuts and terrifying to me as a parent. It's difficult to even think about what could be a parent's worst day ever."

Hendrickson allegedly posted a Snapchat video of himself with a gun seated in a Ford Explorer outside Portsmouth High School. The video included the message Imma gonna shoot up the school, according to Jane Young, U.S. attorney for New Hampshire.

Portsmouth Police Chief Mark Newport is acknowledging people don't feel safe sending children to school.

According to allegations in court documents, the items found in the SUV were a black outside waist handgun holster, a Kittery Trading Post bag with four boxes of assorted ammunition, a Sig Romeo 7 red dot sight for a modern sporting rifle, six buckshot shotgun rounds and a box of .22-caliber rimfire ammunition. In the back trunk, they found camouflage body armor, a box of 50 rounds of 40 caliber Smith & Wesson ammunition, a box of five shotgun rounds, an unloaded Chiappa Firearms shotgun and an unloaded Radical 5.56 RG15 assault rifle. In the center console of the car, police said they recovered a 5.56 magazine and 13 rounds of 40-caliber Smith & Wesson ammunition within a handgun magazine.

McEachern said when he was informed about the threat and the decision to close the city's schools, he was in his daughter's room because she was having difficulty sleeping.

"I had the thought that I hoped my wife, Lori, would be asleep when I returned to bed," he said. "Then, she could have a good night's sleep before I had to tell her. It's a terrible thought, your child dead, or the fear they would experience if something like this came into their school."

Kyle Hendrickson was arrested in Portland, Maine, Thursday, April 13, 2023, and charged in connection with a school shooting threat at Portsmouth High School in New Hampshire.

Portsmouth Police Chief Mark Newport said, "People are scared. Schools used to be a safe place for our kids. That sense of security is being challenged."

Story continues

The chief added, "We are fortunate that we do not have a lot of violent crime here. But we are not immune and that's why we train, to prepare as best we can for such an event. The first threat we had here this year was a hoax. This one was not the same thing."

The Portsmouth threat incident came about two weeks after a school shooting in Nashville left three 9-year-old children and three adults dead.

Portsmouth leaders call for gun laws and school safety measures

Portsmouth Mayor Deaglan McEachern believes a school resource officer in each Portsmouth school could improve safety.

McEachern said he would like Portsmouth to have a school resource officer in all schools. Currently there is an SRO in the middle and the high school, but not in the elementary schools.

"We have time to have this discussion as the budget has not been finalized," he said. "I would like to see SROs added for all the elementary schools. The City Council cannot add that line item, so it would need to come from the police, or from the schools. I think having a cruiser outside each school could be a deterrent."

McEachern said he sees the role of an SRO in a school not as a disciplinary role, but as a safety measure.

"We used to have Kevin Semprini, Officer Friendly," he said. "Our kids should feel secure knowing if there is trouble, they can reach out and rely on their SRO."

"That is certainly a topic open for conversation," Newport said. "In a perfect world, it would be so. But we have to have the right officer for the position, and we are also facing staffing issues. We need the right people, to have the right impact on the kids, parents and the schools."

Never miss a story: Follow local news on the Seacoastonline mobile app

Portsmouth Police Commission chairperson Stefany Shaheen is also a school parent in Portsmouth.

"With children in the Portsmouth schools, we have kids getting shooter drills, and the schools being on lockdown," Shaheen said. "I have gotten those terrifying texts, with kids in a closet, texting they do not know what is going on."

Luckily, she said, with the expertise of the FBI and Portsmouth police, Hendrickson was quickly identified and apprehended.

Police Commission Chair Stefany Shaheen, seen in this file photo, said: "I reject the notion that there is nothing we can do. There are things we can do, and we need to do them now. The number one cause of death for our children right now is gun violence."

"The arsenal he had was so frightening," she said. "I reject the notion that there is nothing we can do. There are things we can do, and we need to do them now. The number one cause of death for our children right now is gun violence."

Stefany Shaheen: Frustrated with ceaseless gun violence? Vote for change.

Every time there is a school shooting, or a threat the topic of changing gun laws comes up, not much changes, McEachern said, referencing a longtime political divide.

"Guys like this should not have access to guns," McEachern said. "He has a record, was a red flag. At the state level, we get frustrated with the legislature because there have to be better ways to do what is needed here. We can push for better gun laws, but they need support. If we could agree there is a certain group of people who have lost their rights to have guns, it's a start. We can do the right thing, the responsible thing. I think gun owners should be a part of the conversation and we should do what is easiest first, like backing up red flag laws, background checks, and waiting period to buy guns, and ammo."

Mayor McEachern commentary: We must do everything we can to assure our schools are safe

New Hampshire Republican Gov. Chris Sununu, who spoke to the National Rifle Association Friday, has consistently opposed gun laws that would add restrictions. He has said they won't make schools safer.

Shaheen said it's time for the lawmakers in this country to put every option on the table.

"This is not a partisan issue," she said. "We need every leader, every teacher, every parent on board to do a better job. This person should have been red flagged, should never have had access to the arsenal he had.

Shaheen said bump stocks that can shoot 90 bullets in 10 seconds should not be available. She said loopholes at gun shows need to be closed, so background checks are happening on all gun sales.

"We should have buyback programs, the same as we have take-back days for drugs," Shaheen said. "People should be able to safely turn over guns. We need more things like trigger lock giveaways."

Shaheen pointed to polls showing a majority of Americans favor changes to gun laws.

"Everyone has to come to the table on this," Shaheen said. "The Second Amendment and keeping kids safe is not mutually exclusive."

Newport was asked if Hendrickson would have attempted to carry out his threat. He said there is no way to know.

"I can't get inside his head," he said. "So we will continue working with our community, with the schools, the City Council, the mayor and the city manager, to decide how we make our schools safer. I think right now we are all on the same page."

How the case against Kyle Hendrickson is proceeding

Hendrickson on Monday remained in Cumberland County Jail in Portland, Maine, according to Newport.

Hendrickson was arrested Thursday, April 13, in Portland, charged with criminal threatening with a firearm, a Class B felony. On Friday, Young announced Hendrickson is facing a federal charge of "transmitting in interstate commerce a threat to injure the person of another."

Hendrickson was scheduled for an initial appearance in U.S. District Court in Concord, at 3 p.m. Tuesday, April 18.

Newport said Hendrickson waived extradition from Maine to New Hampshire in a court appearance in Portland, on Friday. He said Hendrickson will be transported to New Hampshire and face the state's felony charge at Rockingham County Superior Court in Brentwood.

The federal charge is punishable by up to five years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000 if there is a guilty finding, according to Young. The Class B felony criminal threatening charge is punishable by 3  to 7 years.

Behzad Mirhashem, a federal defender serving as Hendrickson's attorney, could not be reached for comment Monday.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Portsmouth leaders urge gun laws, school safety: 'People are scared'
Channel 2 Action News has learned that a former high-profile Atlanta attorney, Tex McIver, has given up his law license.

According to court filings, the Georgia Supreme Court has accepted the voluntary surrender of McIvers law license.

The state Supreme Court reverse McIvers conviction in June after he was found guilty of killing his wife Dianne in 2018.

RELATED STORIES:

This Court accepted McIvers petition for voluntary suspension of his license pending the outcome of his appeal of those convictions, suspending him until further order of this Court, and directing him to notify the State Bar of the final disposition of his direct appeal, court documents showed. Accordingly, it is hereby ordered that the name of Claud L. McIver III be removed from the rolls of persons authorized to practice law in the State of Georgia.

McIver will have a new trial over his wifes death. The date for that trial has not been set yet.

RELATED NEWS:
A Texas man was arrested last Thursday in connection with the cold-case slaying of a teenager more than four decades ago  then was released on bond from jail the next day.

The Texas Rangers took Larry Allen West into custody for the murder of Carol Joyce Deleon, 18, whose body was found June 4, 1981, along Interstate 35 in Comal County.

She had been shot six times in the head, according to a warrant obtained by KENS5. An autopsy revealed bruising on her neck, and investigators concluded that the suspect was "forcibly holding or restraining the victims neck" when he repeatedly shot her.

FLORIDA POLICE WANT TO SPEAK TO WOMAN WITH LONG BLONDE HAIR' IN 35-YEAR-OLD COLD-CASE MURDER INVESTIGATION

Although she was partially clothed, investigators said there was no indication she'd been sexually assaulted.

Authorities were unable to identify her from fingerprints and missing persons reports, and she was buried as a Jane Doe.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

NEBRASKA MAN ID'D AS MINNESOTA COLD-CASE MURDER VICTIM

In 2009, due to advances in DNA technology, authorities were able to identify her as a recent Thomas Edison High School graduate who'd gone missing after attending a nightclub in San Antonio.

A break in the case came in 2019 after DNA from fingernail scrapings and her body were submitted for genetic geneology testing, which identified three suspects of interest  including West  authorities said.

The Texas Rangers went to his workplace in 2021, and he voluntarily gave them a swab of DNA that matched the samples found on her body, according to the arrest warrant.

He was arrested April 13 and released the next day on $125,000 bond, court records show.

"Weve been suffering for over 40 years not knowing what happened to my sister," Carol Joyce Deleon's sister, Sandra Deleon, told KENS5. "The potential of what she could have been  will never be known. We were robbed of that, she was robbed of that."

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West's first wife told investigators that he had allegedly raped and beaten her during their brief 30-day marriage, according to the arrest warrant.

He couldn't immediately be reached for comment.

West is due back in court in May for a pretrial hearing.
Texas House Speaker Dade Phelan (R) vowed to provide more resources for mothers following the U.S. Supreme Court decision striking down a federal right to abortion.

Texas House Speaker Dade Phelan (R) vowed to provide more resources for mothers following the U.S. Supreme Court decision striking down a federal right to abortion.

When the U.S. Supreme Court struck down the federal right to abortion last June, triggering a Texas law that makes the procedure a felony, Texas House Speaker Dade Phelan (R) tweeted that his legislative chamber would double down on maternal health care and resources for women, children, and families.

Those resources apparently do not include paid parental leave for the nearly three-quarters of Texas workers who currently lack paid family leave of any kind.

Last Thursday, Texas Rep. Angie Chen Button (R), chair of the state House International Relations and Economic Development Committee, informed Texas Rep. Penny Morales Shaw (D), the chief sponsor of a bipartisan paid parental leave bill, that the bill will not get a hearing and is thus effectively dead, according to a Democratic Texas House staffer involved in advancing the legislation.

Chen Button decided against holding a committee hearing, a prerequisite for a committee vote and a potential vote on the House floor, after two business groups  the Texas Association for Business and the National Federation of Independent Business  objected to the idea of the hearing, according to the Democratic staffer, who had knowledge of the conversation and requested anonymity to speak freely.

The development was especially disappointing to Democrats because Chen Button had, just days earlier, assured Morales Shaw that the bill would at least get a hearing, the Democratic staffer added. And Morales Shaw had signaled her willingness to water the bill down by making the program optional for small businesses with fewer than 50 employees.

It feels like a gut punch, the Democratic staffer said. At the end of the day, the business lobby has veto power over the extent of their commitment to families.

If were really pro-family, we wouldnt have any inhibitions or concerns about offering paid leave for families with newborn children and recently adopted children.Amanda Posson, senior policy analyst at Every Texan

Story continues

Chen Button could still change her mind. She has until next week to put the bill on the committee hearing calendar through the normal channels. After that, it would require extraordinary, exceedingly unlikely measures to grant the bill a hearing or a vote on the House floor.

Spokespeople for Chen Button, the Texas Association for Business and the NFIB, respectively, did not respond to HuffPosts requests for comment on the Democratic staffers version of the conversation between Chen Button and Morales Shaw.

Morales Shaws Texas Family Act would guarantee Texas full-time workers 12 weeks of paid leave, up to $1,000 a week, upon the birth or adoption of a new child.

The bills financing mechanism is what drew the ire of the Lone Star States powerful business lobby. To fund the program, Morales Shaw and her nine co-sponsors would levy a tax equivalent to 0.15% of the total wages that a business pays out. For example, on a payroll of $500,000, a company would contribute $750 to a new state entity called the Texas Family Fund, which would pay out benefits to workers with a new child.

Proponents of the bill note that the new program would help women, in particular, stay in the workforce, potentially unlocking $19 billion in lost wages.

Texas Rep. Penny Morales Shaw (D) introduced the Texas Family Act that would guarantee full-time workers with a new baby 12 weeks of paid time off up to $1,000 a week.

Texas Rep. Penny Morales Shaw (D) introduced the Texas Family Act that would guarantee full-time workers with a new baby 12 weeks of paid time off up to $1,000 a week.

The free market hasnt solved a very public, widespread issue and gap in our system, said Amanda Posson, a senior policy analyst at Every Texan, a liberal think tank that collaborated closely with Morales Shaw on the bill. Its time for a people-centered public solution that can fill in this tremendous gap that erodes our workforce retention, and that we clearly saw in the pandemic leads women and mothers out of the workforce, and costs all of us, ultimately.

There is no exact data available on the number of Texas workers who currently do not receive paid parental leave from their jobs. But 74% of Texas workers  10.8 million people  lack either paid parental leave or paid leave to care for a family member, according to an analysis of official data conducted by the National Partnership for Women and Families, a pro-paid-leave group in Washington, D.C.

Every Texan estimates that about 144,000 full-time Texas workers would receive benefits from the Texas Family Fund in its first year of operation.

If were really pro-family, we wouldnt have any inhibitions or concerns about offering paid leave for families with newborn children and recently adopted children to provide this really valuable and important care, Posson said. There shouldnt be a conflict here.

Texas Republicans are known for their opposition to higher taxes on business and employer mandates of any kind.

There was some optimism, however, that even the Lone Star State GOP would warm to modest benefits for new parents in the wake of the U.S. Supreme Courts June decision overturning a federal right to abortion. The high court judgment enabled a 2021 Texas law to take effect that prohibits abortions in all cases but those where the pregnancy endangers the mothers life.

The law, which threatens doctors who perform abortions with life imprisonment, also put a spotlight on Republicans like Speaker Phelan who promised that the self-described pro-life party would help families care for children after they are born.

Texas state Rep. Angie Chen Button (R) may be protecting Republicans from having to either take an unpopular vote against the parental leave bill or cross the partys big-business backers.

Texas state Rep. Angie Chen Button (R) may be protecting Republicans from having to either take an unpopular vote against the parental leave bill or cross the partys big-business backers.

Sure enough, Texas Republicans are on track to pass legislation providing state employees with paid parental leave benefits.

Morales Shaw and her allies hoped that ensuring private-sector workers the same benefits might be next. She succeeded in recruiting a Republican co-author for her bill, state Rep. Ben Bumgarner, whose vote would have ensured the bills passage out of the state House International Relations and Economic Development Committee. And representatives of the labor, medical and faith communities were prepared to testify at a hearing about the bill.

Whats more, Chen Button, a business-friendly Republican from the Dallas suburbs and a vice chair of the Texas Houses Early Childhood Caucus, seemed like the right person to confirm that the bill got fair consideration.

Chen Button might benefit politically from forging a bipartisan compromise with Democrats. With suburban voters drifting toward Democrats in response to Donald Trumps presidency, she nearly lost her bid for reelection in 2020. Texas Republicans drew her a much more conservative district in 2022, enabling her to win reelection handily this past November.

When Chen Button expressed reservations about the bills impact on Texas small businesses, Morales Shaw was willing to play ball by exempting the smallest businesses from the program, thus sparing them from the new 0.15% payroll tax.

But now the Democratic Texas House staffer fears that quashing a hearing on the bill and deferring blame to two business groups is Chen Buttons way of protecting Republicans from having to either take an unpopular vote against the bill or cross the partys big-business backers.

One thing we had anticipated from the beginning, since most Republicans support paid parental leave in theory, is that this is the kind of bill that no one wants to kill in broad daylight, the aide said. So its being killed in the shadows by not getting a hearing.

Related...
homes in Portofino Italy

Portofino, a picturesque fishing village in Italy, has become a popular tourist destination, attracting thousands of visitors annually. However, the increased foot traffic has led to some issues, such as clogged streets and safety concerns.

To address these problems, the towns mayor, Matteo Viavaca, has announced a new rule that will fine tourists who loiter in two popular areas.

According to The Times, the two spots in question are popular among tourists who stop for selfies and photos, causing pedestrian traffic to come to a halt. This congestion has resulted in what Viavaca has reportedly called anarchic chaos.

To combat this, the areas have been designated as red zones.

Tourists who linger there will face a fine of 275 euros, or approximately $302.

Photo Credit: Kristine Tanne

The new rule went into effect over Easter weekend when the town saw a surge in tourism for the holidays. It will remain in effect until October 15 and will be enforced every day until 6 pm.

The goal, according to Viavaca, is not exclusivity but rather safety and enjoyment for all.

The objective is not to make the place more exclusive but to allow everyone to enjoy our beauty, Viavaca told The Times. We want to avoid dangerous situations caused by overcrowding.

Is Mass Tourism A Massive Problem?

Portofino isnt the only destination struggling with the negative effects of mass tourism.

In recent years, many popular destinations around the world have implemented measures to manage tourism and protect their cultural heritage.

Venice, another Italian destination, has instituted a tourism tax for visitors staying overnight. Funds from the tourism tax go toward infrastructure improvements and maintenance. Other cities, such as Amsterdam and Barcelona, have imposed daily visitor caps to limit overcrowding in certain areas.

In addition to these efforts to manage tourism, some destinations have also been exploring ways to encourage more sustainable travel. Some countries, including Iceland and New Zealand, have launched campaigns to encourage visitors to explore lesser-known regions and engage in environmentally responsible activities.

These measures aim to prevent damage to the environment, infrastructure, and local communities. Improving the quality of life for residents is also an important factor for many local governments.

RELATED: How Insecure Star Yvonne Orji Did Her Own Eat Pray Love Global Adventure
Could you have overlooked hundreds of dollars in federal income tax refunds that you are legitimately owed?

The Internal Revenue Service says that about 144,700 Californians have yet to claim refunds owed them from 2019.

Taxpayers have until July 17 to claim the money. The median refund available to Californians is estimated to be $856. That means half the refunds are more than that amount and half are less.

IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel figured that the 2019 funds were sometimes overlooked because they involved returns usually filed as the COVID-19 pandemic was gripping the country in 2020.

The pandemic put the brakes on most activities in mid-March, just as Washington was quickly offering COVID-related economic relief and people were preparing their tax returns. The filing deadline that year was extended until mid-July.

With the pandemic taking place when the 2019 tax returns were originally due, people faced extremely unusual situations. People may have simply forgotten about tax refunds with the deadline that year postponed all the way into July, Werfel said in a statement.

He said that the IRS often sees students, part-time workers and others with little income overlook filing a tax return and remain unaware they could be owed a refund.

Taxpayers usually have three years to file and claim refunds. If they dont, the federal government keeps the money.

IRS estimated that about $141.8 million in unclaimed refunds await California taxpayers. Nationally, about $1.5 billion has yet to be claimed.

The 2019 refund could be held back, though, if someone has not filed a 2020 or 2021 tax return. And the IRS could take the refund and apply it to amounts still owed to the state or federal government.

The government could also make sure the money could be used to pay unpaid child support or to repay debts to the government for student loans.

How to seek a refund

Forms needed to file are available on the Forms, Instructions & Publications page or by calling toll-free 800-829-3676. Consumers can also look at guidance available on the IRS website.

Story continues

IRS said in a news release that there are different ways people can obtain the information they may need to get their 2019 refund. The agency said taxpayers should begin the process now.

IRS advice on how to proceed

 Request copies of important documents: Taxpayers who are missing Forms W-2, 1098, 1099 or 5498 for the years 2019, 2020 or 2021 can request copies from their employer, financial institution or others.

 Use Get Transcript Online at irs.gov. Taxpayers who are unable to get those missing forms from their employer or other payers can order a free wage and income transcript at irs.gov using the Get Transcript Online tool. IRS says that for many taxpayers, this is by far the quickest and easiest option.

 Request a transcript. Use Form 4506-T with the IRS to request a wage and income transcript.

The transcript shows data from other returns received by the IRS, such as Forms W-2, 1099, 1098, Form 5498 and IRA contribution information. Taxpayers can use the information from the transcript to file their tax return.

Taxpayers in most of the country must file their 2022 federal income tax returns by the end of Tuesday. In California, because of the weather-related problems this winter and spring, the deadline for federal and state returns in most counties has been extended until Oct. 16.
Ebola cases started popping up in the United States in 2014, just a few years into David Baynes career at the Georgia Department of Public Health. His experienced there affirmed his commitment to public health and kept him on a trajectory that led him to Thurston County.

I watched people who had never heard of public health before, all of a sudden go, Who are these guys? Bayne said. That was a real trigger point for me of going, I would love to be in a place where Im helping the average person understand the role that we have for them.

Bayne rose to Director of Strategic Partnerships and Policy in his nearly seven years at the department. Reflecting on his time there, he said he would often pivot from responding to an infectious disease outbreak to helping a family access food programs and preparing for emergencies.

Its never ending, Bayne said. Even in the time Ive been in public health, its grown. ... Theres always pieces of the puzzle that keep getting in. I love that. Public health is in all things, ultimately. Its one of the few areas where you can say that with a straight face.

Thurston County hired Bayne to lead its Public Health and Social Services Department (PHSS) in December with a $145,000 starting salary, The Olympian previously reported. He replaced interim director Kurt Hardin who filled the role left by former director Schelli Slaughter at the start of 2022.

PHSS responds to a range of health issues, from infectious diseases to homelessness. It also regulates food safety, septic systems and more. In Baynes words, the department aims to improve the safety and health of the county population wherever its most at risk.

Over three months into the job, Bayne sat down with The Olympian to discuss his past experience and current vision for the department. The discussion occurred as the department has been transitioning away from its heavy focus on COVID-19, responding to a worsening opioid crisis and working to mitigate homelessness.

Story continues

Baynes journey to Thurston County

Bayne moved to Thurston County in 2018 to work at the Washington state Department of Health. He served as Deputy Secretary of Strategic Partnerships until becoming the countys PHSS director.

Though he loved working for Georgia and Washington state, Bayne said he has a soft spot for county health departments.

The state in many ways operates as a pass-through for a lot of funding and provides a lot of high-level guidance, Bayne said. The on-the-ground-work is really happening, in many ways, at the county level.

Bayne said he felt drawn to the opportunities and challenges of working in a mid-sized local health jurisdiction. Thurston County especially felt unique because it is the state capital and features an urban and rural divide, he said.

He also has personal reasons for taking the county post. As a resident and father, he said he wanted to give back to the community.

The thought that I could lead the department in my hometown community was really exciting, Bayne said. Ive got two kids, a 5-1/2-year-old and a 4-year-old, and I have this vested interest that where they grow up is a place that is welcoming and healthy.

In many ways, Bayne said working in public health feels like full circle experience. He was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin but he spent most of his childhood in Connecticut. His family eventually relocated to Atlanta, Georgia where he lived for over two decades.

Earlier in this life, he said his family lived just below the poverty line. They eventually achieved a middle-class life, but he said that experience affected their health.

To be in a place where I get to have such a direct impact with some of the social determinants of health, knowing how much it impacted me and my family, its a big deal, he said.

He said one of his main priorities at the county is to measure and address health disparities among populations with different racial identities and socioeconomic statuses.

This idea about disparity is something we cant escape from, Bayne said. As were moving forward, as Im trying to figure out how to move in our post-COVID (emergency) environment, I want to do that in a way that is honoring and centering around those disparities as well.

COVID-19 response

Bayne started at PHSS just as it was dismantling its emergency response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

He described this period as an unwinding phase where the department is refocusing on health issues that were not as much of a priority during the past three years.

Its the COVID pandemic phase moving into a COVID endemic phase, Bayne said. How do we operate in a way where COVID becomes another infectious disease that we deal with?  What do we unwind? What do we keep? That is a big challenge we still face.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention describes Thurston Countys COVID-19 Community Level as low, along with all the other counties in Washington state.

But PHSS is still responding to outbreaks in congregate care settings and encouraging vaccinations among the public. Bayne said there seem to be fewer significant spikes in COVID-19 activity, but those trends are still not as predictable as he would hope.

For his part, Bayne said he still chooses to wear a mask if hes near someone whos immuno-compromised or if hes at a large gathering.

Bayne said he thinks PHSS learned to quickly adapt and mobilize a lot of people during the pandemic, and to build relationships with non-traditional partners such as local business and community organizations.

To me, we have to keep building on that, Bayne said. We have to continue to learn how to make that more effective next time.

Bayne said the public health system suffered wins and losses in communicating with the public.

We as a public health system did not fare as well against misinformation, Bayne said. Thats still something were fighting back against, working through and trying to figure out best practices.

Opioids and overdoses

Overdose deaths have been increasing and have even affected the county jail, according to Thurston County officials.

Officials have blamed that trend on an influx of fentanyl, a synthetic opioid thats 50-100 times stronger than morphine.

Coroner Gary Warnock has said his office counted 153 overdose deaths in 2022 and 114 of those deaths involved fentanyl. For comparison, Warnock counted 51 overdose deaths involving fentanyl in 2022 and just 10 in 2019.

Bayne co-chairs the Thurston County Opioid Response Task Force with Prosecuting Attorney Jon Tunheim. In December, the Board of Health voted to continue the 2021-2022 Opioid Response Plan through 2023.

That plan calls for measures to prevent and treat opioid abuse; prevent further overdose deaths; increase the distribution of naloxone, which reverses overdoses; and collect more data, among other goals.

Bayne said he has been getting up to speed on the task forces action plan, but he said a critical component is education. Like with COVID-19, he said PHSS has a role to play in dispelling misinformation and stigmas around addiction.

Not everyone understands the prevalence of fentanyl and its risks, Bayne said. Education has taken the form of social media posts and direct presentations to community partners.

I love the task force being an avenue for us to have really good conversations and really good methods for getting the word out on what we need to do, Bayne said.

PHSS also sees as really critical its work to ensure community partners are supplied with naloxone. PHSS offers naloxone training through the Thurston County Syringe Services Program.

Homelessness

Bayne said the homeless response system is stressed with uneven funding, and local providers are overwhelmed.

I think our provider community, which is incredible in Thurston County,  they are stressed to the max, Bayne said. A lot of them are at capacity in terms of who they can serve, and they need more staffing. Its not an easy market to hire people to work in that particular field.

Bayne said PHSS has identified disparities in the system, but they havent been able to address them all.

The number of people counted in Thurston Countys Point in Time (PIT) homeless census increased from 766 in 2022 to 792 in 2023, according to preliminary numbers released in March.

Though the data shows an increase in 2023, the PIT has historically undercounted the homeless population and its methodology has varied year to year.

The PIT census is a requirement for federal grants, but Bayne said it also helps PHSS see high-level trends among demographic groups over time.

I dont want to pretend that the PIT count is the definitive mark of how we can measure homelessness, but it is one of our more consistent ways that weve been able to do it, Bayne said.

Bayne said the county has been making some progress in its response efforts.

For one, Bayne said the countys Office of Housing and Homeless Prevention (OHHP) has participated in Gov. Jay Inslees Rights of Way Initiative, an effort to relocate people camped near highways.

Additionally, he said OHHP has served as a local leader in Built for Zero, a national movement to end homelessness using data, and the Anchor Community Initiative, a program that supports efforts to end homelessness among youth and young adults.

However, Bayne said hes especially excited by the recent creation of a Lived Experience Steering Committee in the local homeless policy community.

You want people who are experiencing living this to actually be part of the solution, to give us feedback and for their voices to be heard in our decision-making process, he said. This is so key.

Inclusive efforts like this will help PHSS understand and address health disparities in the county, he said.

Its a representation of where I want all of our different sorts of efforts in offices to go, Bayne said. Its to keep centering that as they make decisions going forward.
Zhafira Aqyla is popular on TikTok and YouTube. Screenshot/TikTok - zhafiraiha

A TikTok influencer filmed herself asking her best friends to call her by her full name.

She said they had been calling her Zha instead of her full Indonesian name Zhafira for years.

She explained her decision by saying she didn't want to reduce her identity.

A TikToker appeared to capture the moment she told her friends she wanted to be called by her full Indonesian name instead of the shorter nickname they knew her by.

The creator, a Harvard graduate student named Zhafira Aqyla, filmed herself explaining that she wanted to make this change to take power over her name and not reduce her identity.

In the video, which has received over 2 million views, Aqyla appears to address people who are off-camera, saying in an on-screen caption that they are her friends who had been calling her "Zha" for five years.

She said that starting in 2023 as a new resolution, she wanted to go by Zhafira, and said she had begun asking everyone to call her by that, including her husband.

"This is me taking power of my own name," Aqyla explained. She said the reason she asked people to call her Zha in the first place was that she thought her full Indonesian name would be too complicated for people to say.

"But I realized that it's me kind of reducing my identity, and I feel like that's the colonized person in me wanting to service other people by doing that, and I feel like I don't wanna do that anymore," she continued.

One of the people off-camera said it might take some time for them to adjust, which Aqyla said was OK.

"If you call me Zha, I'm not gonna get angry," Aqyla said. "It's a process for everyone."

As the video ended, one person could be heard saying they'd do their best, while another giggled and said this was the biggest shock they'd ever heard.

The raw moment has fascinated viewers, with some commenters calling Aqyla an inspiration. Some users praised Aqyla's friends for taking it in and being respectful even though they were surprised, while others criticized them for seeming to suggest that her name would be difficult to say, or for acting like it would be an inconvenience for them to switch over.

Story continues

"It's been a little while and I hope they have respected this for you, you deserve that," one person commented on the video. "It's not a big ask."

People with non-Western names have spoken out before about feeling pressure to change their names, or to adopt a more typically Anglo-sounding name so they could assimilate into Western culture. In 2021, the British actress Thandiwe Newton said she had been going as "Thandie" her entire career because the "W" was thoughtlessly left out of her name in her first acting credit, and announced she would be going by her full name again to reclaim it.

In addition to her TikTok page, which has over 470,000 followers, Aqyla is popular on YouTube, with a channel dedicated to showing her life at home and college that has over 280,000 subscribers.

Aqyla did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Read the original article on Insider
The White House gates cant stop all intruders from breaching the premises, apparently.

A toddler squeezed through the metal barricade Tuesday morning but was caught by Secret Service officers on the north lawn before he crawled too close to the executive mansion, a spokesperson confirmed in a statement to POLITICO.

The Secret Service Uniformed Division today encountered a curious young visitor along the White House north fence line who briefly entered White House grounds, Secret Service spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi said. The White House security systems instantly triggered Secret Service officers and the toddler and parents were quickly reunited.

In a photo taken by an Associated Press photographer, the boy can be seen being carried by two uniformed officers, suspended in the air amid a backdrop of the White House.

Though short-lived, the toddlers escapade may be historic: Its possibly the first successful breach of the White House barrier since the fences height was doubled to 13 feet four years ago due to several intrusions. The new fence did, however, come with gaps an inch wider, totaling 5.5 inches.

It also appears to be the first baby breach at the White House in eight years. In 2015, a 4-year-old made it into a secured area as well, causing security officers to draw their weapons on the north lawn. And the year before that, a toddler squeezed through the fence in front of the residence.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Ryan Garcia and Gervonta Davis will look to settle their long-standing feud this weekend, as the unbeaten boxers clash in a huge main event in Las Vegas.

Davis (28-0, 26 knockouts) holds the WBA lightweight title, while Garcia (23-0, 19 KOs) is a former WBC interim lightweight champion.

However, the Americans will meet in a catchweight bout at 136lbs, in a fight that is years in the making.

Davis recent legal issues threatened to delay the contest, but Tank, 28, and Garcia, 24, are still on course to clash at long last.

Heres all you need to know. We may earn commission from some of the links in this article, but we never allow this to influence our content. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent.

When is it?

The fight will take place on Saturday 22 April, a main event at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The main card is due to begin at 1am BST on Sunday 23 April (5pm PT, 7pm CT, 8pm ET on Saturday). Ring walks for the main event are then expected at approximately 4am BST on Sunday (8pm PT, 10pm CT, 11pm ET on Saturday).

How can I watch it?

The event will stream live on Dazn in the UK and selected European countries, and on Dazn pay-per-view in the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

Odds

Garcia  15/8

Davis  4/9

Draw  14/1

Via Betway.

Fight card (subject to change)

Gervonta Davis vs Ryan Garcia (136lbs catchweight)

David Morrell (C) vs Sena Agbeko (WBA super-middleweight title)

Bektemir Melikuziev vs Gabriel Rosado (super-middleweight)

Elijah Garcia vs Kevin Salgado Zambrano (middleweight)
Getty Images

This is the latest in our series on underrated destinations, It's Still a Big World.

I went to Honduras for one reason: I love outdoor adventures but hate crowds.

For the past few decades, Costa Rica has worn the Central American crown in adventure travel, as its well-known for hiking, biking, surfing, zip-lining, and pretty much all things outdoors. Dont get me wrong, I thoroughly enjoyed my action-packed trip to Costa Rica in 2020, but I know thats partly because I visited right after the country reopened, so every single hotel and attraction I visited was empty.

Just think about it. How many people do you know have been to Costa Rica? I know five people who visited Costa Rica just last month alone, yet I only know two people who have ever visited Honduras. This surprised me because Im a travel writer with many travel writer friends who are constantly jet-setting around the globe. As such, I placed Honduras at the top of my 2023 travel list.

Last month, I spent six days in Honduras, where I zip-lined, hiked down a cliff and behind a 143-foot waterfall, kayaked in a mangrove forest, rafted between two National Parks, and hiked in another National Park, where you can rent a six-person luxury cabin for an insanely low price of $300/night. I also cycled through rural, rarely explored areas and visited Central Americas largest and newest cypress tree labyrinth, which opened in January.

What I loved most about traveling in Honduras was that, unlike in Costa Rica or Mexico, where 90 percent of the travelers you meet are American, most of the travelers here are Honduran so you can enjoy the rare opportunity of traveling with locals. Most Americans I met were Honduran-American travelers returning to explore their birth country; the other chunk was a group of U.S. Army and Navy folks stationed at one of the bases. Apparently, the base organizes adventure trips for the troops every weekend.

Coxen Hole Cruise Port in Roatan, Honduras. Alberto Palacio

Roatan

Of the very few Americans that do make it to Honduras, the vast majority go to two places: Roatan and Copan. Situated about 30 miles off the northern coast of Honduras, Roatan island is the perfect mix of beautiful beaches and superb snorkeling/diving, paired with plenty of bars and nightlife options. Think Tulum but a bit less developed and without the endless drunken Spring Break vibe. To get to Roatan, you can catch a boat from nearby Cayos Cochinos, or hop on one of several daily flights from Houston, Miami, and Tegucigalpa. Since its easy to get here from the U.S., it usually makes the most sense to start here and then fly out of another airport (like Tegucigalpa) or to do the reverse.

Story continues

To keep it even simpler, catch an hour-long ferry from La Ceiba (on the mainland) to the smaller, less-touristy Cayos Cochinos, which is within the Roatan municipality. Made up of two small islands and 13 smaller coral cays, Cayos Cochinos is about 20 miles northeast of La Ceiba. These pig bays are worth an overnight visit but are also easily visited as a day trip. Most visitors come here for two reasons: to visit beaches and to experience Garifuna culture. The Garifuna are the descendants of Carib Indigenous people and enslaved Africans who were exiled from British colonies in the eastern Caribbean in the 18th century.

Today, there are thriving Garifuna communities across Central America (and in the United States), but the largest population is found in Honduras, followed by Belize. In 2001, UNESCO declared the Garifuna culture a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity and you can book Garifuna Tours in Cayos Cochinos and elsewhere in Honduras.

Copan temple in Honduras. Michel Gounot

Copan

Honduras other claim to fame is Copan, one of the most important sites of the Mayan civilization, which was discovered in 1570 but not excavated until the 19th century. The entire city of Copan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where travelers can visit pyramids that the Mayans built to symbolize mountains, plazas to represent lakes, and doorways to suggest caves. The site was occupied for over 2,000 years and, today, Copan is famous for not only the number of its stone sculptures but also for the well-preserved quality of these stone columns, built to represent a forest of kings.

Because I didnt want to spend seven hours (each way) in a car getting there and because Ive visited so many other Mayan ruins (again, Im a spoiled travel writer), I decided not to visit Copan. I only had six days in Honduras and I wanted to spend every waking moment doing something outdoorsy, so much to the surprise of every Honduran I met, I skipped the countrys national treasure. Ill add, however, that every single traveler I met who had visited the site said it was spectacular. From what I heard, its well worth a day or two, as you can also zip-line, go horseback riding, visit a huge field of sunflowers, and tour coffee and tobacco farms.

A picture of a mesmerizing Pulhapanzak waterfall on Lake Yojoa under the clear sky in Honduras Wirestock via Getty Images

Pulhapanzak Waterfalls

My first stop in Honduras was Pulhapanzak, about a two-hour drive from the Comayagua Airport, where I flew in. Pulhapanzak is a 143-foot waterfall that can be engaged with in just about every way imaginable. Zip-line across the falls, climb down, behind, and under the falls, just take a selfie in front of them, or go kayaking in the quiet water behind it. Its a popular day trip but you can also stay overnight at the onsite cabins, which is what I did. The cabins are modest but adequate and all the other guests were Hondurans and Honduran-born Americans who I stayed up with chatting around the campfire.

Come morning, a van pulled up full of Army and Navy folks stationed at a base two hours away. Since I was alone, I was partnered with their group for a zip-line tour. Shout out to the wild military man who shot and shared some epic videos of us gliding over the falls.

Zip-lining is not usually my favorite activity because, while its often included in the "adventure travel" category, I find it a bit too passive for my liking. Pulha, as the site is sometimes referred to, on the other hand, completely changed my mind. Its not every day that you can crisscross above an enormous waterfall, surrounded by its massive spray while sopolotes (vultures) circle above. In a word, it was incredible.

Even more incredible was the climb down and behind the waterfall, which, in a word, was intense. Or, perhaps, insane, depending who you ask. The hike is broken into three increasingly harsh sections, where you have to swim across a narrow river, climb up and down stair-like rocks while water pounds down onto you, and hold a rope as you carefully shuffle your way along a rock shelf while the great Pulhapanzak releases its watery gates of hell from above. One of the women in my group stopped at the first section, which was probably smart, as my guide says that some people experience panic attacks when they get to sections with non-stop powerful bursts of water streaming down. Ill admit to being a bit nervous at times, and I definitely tucked my glasses down into my bra, behind my life jacket, but, overall, I absolutely loved it.

Pico Bonito mountain, a national park and one of Caribbean coast's tallest mountains, in the background of La Ceiba harbor, Honduras gionnixxx

La Ceiba, The Bride of Honduras

All around the northern port city of La Ceiba, considered by many to be the most beautiful city in Honduras, youll encounter colorful billboards referring to the area as La novia de Honduras,, or The bride of Honduras. The billboards showcase the areas beaches, forests, and rivers this nature-rich region is known for and the photos are accurate. If I had to choose one favorite place in Honduras, it would definitely be La Ceiba. I started my visit at The Lodge & Spa of Pico Bonito, which is located within the Pico Bonito National Park.

Solo hiking within the park is possible but Im glad to have gone with a local guide, who pointed out white crown parrots, black hawk eagles, toucans, tree frogs, monkeys, butterflies, and countless tropical plants and mushrooms. After the hike, I headed straight to the spa for a relaxing massage. Once at the spa, I learned that they also offer the traditional Mayan sweat lodge experience known as a temazcal. Having gotten hooked on the practice in Mexico about 10 years ago, I was disappointed not to be able to try it here, as you need to make a reservation the day before because the ceremonial stones take five hours to heat up. Word to the wisemake an advance reservation so you don't miss out.

The next day, I headed out on a kayaking tour of La Ceibas mangrove forests with La Moskitia Ecoaventuras. My guide, Emilio, is the son of the companys founder and was a wealth of information. As we paddled through Lago de Cacao, he pointed out green herons, howler monkeys, and black hawks that have adapted to eating the local crabs. Tiny, rare pygmy kingfishers flew in front of us while some of the areas 200 varieties of bats slept on the downed trees that we floated under. Emilio pointed out a nephila spider and explained that it spins a web so strong that scientists are trying to synthesize it as a substitute for iron. After a quick stop at the beach, we saw several crocodiles, which Emilio insisted never bother humans.

That afternoon, I headed out again with Moskitia Ecoaventuras to whitewater raft along the Rio Cangrejal, which flows between Pico Bonito National Park and the neighboring Nombre de Dios (Name of God) National Park. Though I didnt have time to hike, guides told me that the 4-hour in-and-out hike to the 420-foot high El Bejuco waterfall is pretty incredible.

While in the area, I stayed several nights at the La Villa de Soledad, which is within walking distance to rafting and hiking opportunities. La Villa is a family-run colonial villa with enormous rooms, sky-high ceilings, hammocks on the patio, and a charm you won't find in any corporate hotel. The B&B, like many Honduran hotels and inns, can help arrange your taxis and excursions, so should you not book a driver or guide, reach out to them in advance to plan your trip. You can also work with trusted tour operators to book accommodations and drivers. I was extremely impressed with Moskitia Ecoaventuras, who assured me they can help travelers plan a multi-day adventure itinerary, including activities, accommodations, and drivers. Next time I visit Honduras, thats exactly what I will do.

Comayagua

As the runways in the capital city, Tegucigalpa, are very short, Honduras recently unveiled a new international airport near Comayagua, about 80 minutes away. The majority of attractions are in the northern and western parts of Honduras, but its worth spending a day in/around Comayagua regardless of your plans. If you do only one thing here, make it a visit to Rancho Sofia. Dont be fooled by the inordinate amount of cow photos on their social media page, as this is far more than a farm. This farm-turned-tourist attraction opened a small but stunning hotel two years ago with six rooms, multiple pools, plus camping options and a laundry facility. If its available, opt for the room with two floor-to-ceiling window walls overlooking the property.

Rancho Sofia also operates a small restaurant and Cow Bar that can only be described as John Deere meets Honduran bohemian chic. Yeah, I know. Think vodka cocktails and fresh dragon fruit juice on the patio, in a hammock, or in the elevated treehouse lounge area while the sounds of Madonna and The Weeknd drift through the air. You could easily drive here on your own but I arrived by bicycle with Julie Tours Travel, which took me on a 10-mile tour of small towns and farmland before stopping at the Jardin de Eden, which is just down the road.

Jardin de Eden, better known as the Cypress Labyrinth, began planting its 2,886 cypress trees (brought in from all over the country and neighboring El Salvador) in 2018. The trees were finally tall enough for the attraction to open its doors in December 2022, and visitors now spend anywhere from 30 minutes to 3 hours trying to find their way out of the maze. The site also has a large flower tunnel leading to a park studded with plants trimmed into the shapes of dogs, hearts, and everyday objects like cups. Theres also a large clock made of plants and bushes thats been set to 9 oclock because that's when Jesus died (Honduras is a very religious country). A handful of cabins have been built on site, completely surrounded by fuchsia-colored bougainvillea flowers, that should open next month, adding to the country's already impressive selection of unique accommodations.

Comayagua Honduras. Franck38 via Getty Images

Getting Around and Planning Your Trip

Like most Central American countries, you can rent your own car, hire a driver (with or without a guide), or get around by public transportation. You can pick up your car right from the airport and its best to reserve one in advance. If you book a driver, understand that they are just thatdriversthey are not tour guides and they may or may not speak English. Uber is also a good option for getting around larger cities (its unavailable in small cities and rural areas). However, for safety reasons, only accept drivers with a photo with profile information.

While its recommended to avoid public buses within Tegucigalpa for safety reasons, it is safe to take buses between cities (between Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula, for instance). If you rent your own car, know that the roads are in decent (but not great) condition and you can usually get by with a sedan. If you plan to drive yourself to off-beat nature hikes, kayaking trips, or to that gorgeous colonial villa I stayed in, definitely consider getting a mini-SUV, which is what I rode in.

Google Maps works fairly well (though several times it tried sending us the wrong way down a one-way street), but know that it may suggest a shortcut through an area that isnt the safest. This is only a real concern if youre driving in Tegucigalpa, which, as youll learn later, can (and should) be skipped if you have limited time in the country.

Even if you want to do your own thing and drive alone, it still may be worth hiring an agency to help plan your itinerary, book hotels, and even map your driving route so you stay on the right track. If you do drive alone, avoid driving at night for security purposes and because some highways arent well marked so its easier to get lost at night. Also, make sure to reserve an automatic car as stick shifts are often the default in much of Latin America.

Having local currency (lempiras) is best but, if youre in a pinch, many places catering to tourists (accommodations, restaurants, excursion companies) accept USD. I also found that several hotels and tour companies exchange money, which is easiest to do during the week since they dont do bank runs on the weekend.

Though pre-planning is a good idea in any country, figuring things out is fairly easy once you get to Honduras. Everywhere I went, I met travelers who shared tips for where to go and highly knowledgeable guides gave me advice for what Ill do next time I return.

Speaking of guides, I got my car and guide through Andy Paraiso Tours. Actually, I was assigned a travel agent, not a guide, which seems common here, and it worked well since I had local experts for all my adventures. Unfortunately, the Travel Honduras website has a lot of broken links, but it does have good information worth reviewing. If you like the idea of visiting multiple destinations in Central America, Visit Centro America is a great website that allows you to search for tours by country, activity, and length of stay.

In general, guides speak English, prices are extremely affordable, and Honduras uses the same electrical outlets as the U.S. so you dont need to bring a converter. All the places I stayed had Wi-Fi (though signal strength varied), and my international data plan usually allowed me to browse and text freely, and I was even able FaceTime a few times.

Safety

Honduras has historically received fewer visitors than Costa Rica because it has experienced far more crime and violence than its Central American neighbor, famously known for not having a military. While there were many more problems and safety concerns in the past, the situation has improved substantially. The country experienced a coup in 2009, and a later president was arrested and extradited to the United States on drug trafficking charges. Still, the government has since declared war on gangs, and Honduras has experienced a steady and significant drop in homicides over the past decade.

Does Honduras still have issues with drugs and violence? Yes, but its mostly limited to the northeasternmost province, Gracias a Dios, and certain neighborhoods in Tegucigalpa. Because the rest of the country is way more interesting and beautiful, most travelers will want to skip Tegucigalpa anyway.

While I did visit Tegucigalpa (with a local guide who knew what neighborhoods were safe), I couldnt make it to the colonial city center because there was a large political protest that day. These protests are somewhat common and may be accompanied by violence, so instead of touring the downtown area, we spent our time stuffing our faces with the popular street snack, baleadas. The astoundingly addictive snacks (usually eaten for breakfast or as an evening snack) are thick corn tortillas stuffed with beans, eggs, and mantequilla, a creamy liquid butter. These egg, bean, and buttery treats are basically a takeaway version of the traditional Honduran plate, minus the plantains, plus a helping of cabbage curtido slaw. Do not leave the country without trying them.

COVID Concerns

While much of the world has completely eliminated COVID restrictions and one could easily forget that the pandemic hasnt ended, Honduras is still taking COVID fairly seriously. Masks are required on domestic flights, in airports, and in public places. Even when masks arent required, they are the norm in many indoor settings, from supermarkets and pharmacies to cafes and hotels. As such, even if you usually go without a mask, it would be polite to carry one with you to use indoors if thats what you see most people are doing.

To visit Honduras, youll also need to show proof of vaccination or a recent negative PCR test before boarding your flight and again when you land in Honduras. Travel insurance isnt required (though I bought a World Nomads plan because Im a huge believer in comprehensive travel insurance), but you do have to fill out a health form 72 hours before your departure.

Getting to and from Honduras is fairly easy, as is getting around the country, communicating, exchanging money, and finding safe and wonderful adventures. While I selfishly hope the country doesnt become completely overrun with tourists in the near future, it absolutely is a possibility. Until then, now is the time to enjoy an underrated, under-visited small Central American paradise thats happy to have you and just about guarantees you a great time.

Cassandra Brooklyn is a writer, travel expert, and group tour leader. She runs EscapingNY, an off-the-beaten-path travel company, and is the author of the guidebook Cuba by Bike.

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CINCINNATI (AP)  TJ Friedl drove in four runs, and Cincinnati beat the Tampa Bay Rays 8-1 on Monday night after Reds right-hander Hunter Greene departed with a leg injury.

Kevin Newman homered for Cincinnati, and Nick Senzel scored two runs. The Reds won the opener of the three-game interleague series after losing 14-3 to Philadelphia on Sunday.

Tampa Bay lost for the third time in four games since its 13-0 start. Josh Lowe homered for the Rays, and Randy Arozarena and Harold Ramirez each had two hits.

Our timely hits weren't there tonight, Rays manager Kevin Cash said. When they got guys on base, they found hits and we didn't."

Greene surrendered a leadoff double in the third before he was struck by Yandy Diaz's comebacker. The 23-year-old right-hander stayed in after he was evaluated by a trainer and tossed a few warmup pitches.

But Greene, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2017 amateur draft, departed after the inning. He averaged 96.8 mph for 21 fastballs, down from a season average of 99.5 mph.

He looked fine after throwing a few more pitches, Reds manager David Bell said. I saw him in between innings and he was limping really bad. At that point, we made the decision. With these types of contusions, you have to really stay on top of it. But the goal as of right now is to have him make his next start.

Greene, who started on opening day, was diagnosed with a right tibia contusion. X-rays were negative.

It's super tight, Greene said. I wanted to finish that inning. I knew I could finish it. As soon as I came in it tightened up right away. It would have been foolish to go back out and just use my arm. Im just happy the X-ray was negative.

After Greene departed, Buck Farmer, Alex Young, Ian Gibaut (1-0) and Kevin Herget combined for six innings of five-hit ball. Lowe homered in the ninth against Herget for Tampa Bay's only run in front of a crowd of just 7,375 at Great American Ball Park.

With starters Zach Eflin and Jeffrey Springs sidelined by injuries, the Rays used Jalen Beeks (0-1) as an opener. Beeks pitched three innings of one-run ball, surrendering Newman's second homer in the second.

Story continues

Friedl's three-run double off Kevin Kelly made it 4-0 in the fourth, and Tyler Stephenson and Newman tacked on run-scoring singles in the seventh.

WEB GEM

Tampa Bay loaded the bases in the sixth, but right fielder Jake Fraley made a diving grab on Manuel Margots looping liner for the final out of the inning.

He's worked hard to be an all-round player," Bell said of Fraley. He's getting better defensively. Doing all the little things.

The Rays went 0 for 10 with runners in scoring position and stranded nine.

(Fraley's catch) was difficult to see, but it's part of the game," Margot said through a translator. "I feel like we left a lot of guys on base.

TRAINERS ROOM

Rays: OF Jose Siri (strained right hamstring) will likely need some at-bats in the minors before being activated, according to Cash. Hes eligible to come off the IL on Wed. ... Eflin is expected to be activated on Sunday when he is eligible.

Reds: INF Spencer Steer left Sundays game with right knee soreness but an MRI did not show any damage. He is day to day. ... RHP Lucas Sims (lower back) pitched back-to-back days for Triple-A Louisville and could be activated on Wednesday when eligible.

UP NEXT

LHP Nick Lodolo (2-0, 2.12 ERA) starts for the Reds on Tuesday. The Rays havent announced their starter, but rookie RHP Taj Bradley could get the call.

___

AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb and https://twitter.com/AP_Sports
Map of Togo

Togo, a narrow strip of land on Africa's west coast, has for years been the target of criticism over its human rights record and political governance.

Granted independence from France in 1960, Togo has struggled to build a stable economy.

Togo is one of the world's top five producers of phosphates, which are used in fertilisers, but remains poor and dependent on foreign aid.

Read more profiles by BBC Monitoring

LEADER

President: Faure Gnassingbe Eyadema

Togolese president Faure Gnassingbe Eyadema

Faure Gnassingbe Eyadema succeeded his father, who died in 2005 after ruling the country with an iron fist for 38 years.

The military installed Faure Gnassingbe as president, but following intense domestic and international pressure he called elections. Hundreds died challenging his victory in those polls.

Gnassingbe has won three more elections, in 2010, 2015 and 2020. All were criticised by the opposition.

Constitutional changes in 2019 allowed President Gnassingbe to seek re-election and potentially stay in office until 2030 - an issue that sparked huge protests in 2017-18.

MEDIA

Koutammakou, the Land of the Batammariba in north-eastern Togo, is listed as a World Heritage Site

Radio is the most popular medium, particularly in rural areas. The main TV station is government-owned Television Togolaise. The government also operates Togo-Presse daily.

Private media have proliferated. There are dozens of commercial and community radios and weekly newspapers, as well as a handful of private TV stations.

A penal code criminalising media offences was introduced in 2015, raising media freedom concerns.

TIMELINE

Some key events in Togo's history:

15-17th Centuries - Ewe clans from Nigeria and the Ane from Ghana and Ivory Coast settle in region already occupied by Kwa and Voltaic peoples. In the 1700s, however, the coastal areas are occupied by Denmark.

1884 - German protectorate of Togoland established, but lost to British and French forces in 1914. In 1922 the western part of the country is handed to Britain, while France is given the eastern area by the League of Nations.

Story continues

1960 - Independence.

1967 - Gnassingbe Eyadema seizes power in bloodless coup, political parties dissolved.

1992 - New constitution approved. In 1993 President Eyadema dissolves government, sparking protests and fatal clashes with police. Thousands flee to neighbouring states.

2005 - President Eyadema dies, aged 69. The military appoints his son Faure as president, and he goes on to win elections that year and again in 2010, 2015 and 2020. Opposition parties denounce the results as fraudulent.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrives for a news conference at the conclusion of a G7 Foreign Ministers' Meeting at The Prince Karuizawa hotel in Karuizawa, Japan, Tuesday, April 18, 2023. AP Photo/Andrew Harnik, Pool

An American diplomatic convoy was fired on during intense fighting in Sudan this week.

No one was hurt during the attack, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters Tuesday.

The incident came as days of fighting in the east African country killed nearly 200 people.

Armed fighters opened fire on a clearly marked US diplomatic convoy on Monday in Sudan, the top US diplomat said. Though there were no injuries among the Americans, the incident was condemned as "reckless" and "irresponsible."

The incident unfolded as Sudan's army and a rival paramilitary group have spent the last four days battling to secure control over the massive east African nation. The short conflict has killed scores of people and left Western officials, including those in the US, urging both sides to deescalate.

"I'm limited in terms of the details and what I can get into from here, but I can confirm that yesterday we had an American diplomatic convoy that was fired on," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters in Japan on Tuesday. "All of our people are safe and unharmed. But this action was reckless, it was irresponsible, and of course unsafe  a diplomatic convoy with diplomatic plates, a US flag, being fired upon."

Blinken said he spoke earlier with Gen. Abdel Fattah al Burhan, who commands Sudan's army, and Lt. Gen. Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, who leads the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary and also is referred to as Hemedti. During these separate calls, Blinken said "I made very clear that any attacks, threats, dangers posed to our diplomats were totally unacceptable."

Smoke rises as clashes continue in the Sudanese capital on April 17, 2023. Photo by Mahmoud Hjaj/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

Maxar closeup satellite imagery of the fires and smoke plumes coming from burning airplanes at the Khartoum international Airport, Sudan. Satellite image (c) 2023 Maxar Technologies.

"This particular incident is still being investigated in terms of understanding exactly what happened," Blinken told reporters. "The initial reports that we have is that it was undertaken by forces associated with the RSF, and again, I made very clear in my conversation with General Hemedti that any attacks that endanger our diplomats are totally unacceptable, and I shared the same with General Burhan."

Story continues

The US officials were traveling from their homes in Khartoum, Sudan's capital, to an American residential compound in the city, when gunfire hit an armored vehicle that was a part of the convoy, The New York Times reported.

A State Department spokesperson told Insider that the incident did not involve the vehicle of John Godfrey, the US ambassador to Sudan. "We call on all actors to establish an immediate ceasefire, and take active steps to reduce tensions and ensure the safety of all civilians, UN and other diplomatic personnel, and humanitarian workers," they added.

People walk past shuttered shops in Khartoum, Sudan, Monday, April 17, 2023. AP Photo/Marwan Ali

The incident involving American personnel was not the first time Western officials have been attacked in Sudan in recent days. Earlier on Monday, the European Union's ambassador to the country was assaulted at his home, said Josep Borrell, the EU's foreign affairs chief.

He called the incident "a gross violation of the Vienna Convention," adding that "security of diplomatic premises and staff is a primary responsibility of Sudanese authorities and an obligation under international law."

Violence first broke out across Sudan on Saturday when clashes erupted between forces loyal to the two rival generals, who had been jockeying for power following a 2021 military coup that they orchestrated together. Tensions increased as they struggled to integrate the RSF into the country's army.

A "technical" vehicle (pickup truck mounted with turret) of Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitaries is stationed outside the offices of Dar al-Mushaf (African Holy Koran Publishing House), in the south of Sudan's capital Khartoum on April 17, 2023. Photo by -/AFP via Getty Images

The sudden conflict has seen exchanges of gunfire, artillery, and airstrikes, trapping millions of people in their homes. Over 180 people had been killed and another 1,800 were left injured as of Monday, according to the United Nations. Among the dead are three employees of the World Food Programme, a UN organization.

By Tuesday afternoon local time, it appeared as though the warring sides had agreed to a 24-hour ceasefire, the Associated Press reported, citing Arab media.

"The situation has already led to horrendous loss of life, including many civilians. Any further escalation could be devastating for the country and the region," UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said. "I reaffirm that the United Nations stands with the people of Sudan at this very difficult time, with full support for their efforts to restore the democratic transition and build a peaceful, secure future."

Read the original article on Business Insider
By Katharine Jackson

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell on Tuesday expressed support for the Supreme Court's chief justice as Democrats urge him to investigate luxury trips taken by Justice Clarence Thomas that were paid for by a Republican donor.

I have total confidence in the Chief Justice of the United States to deal with these court internal issues, McConnell told reporters.

Senate Judiciary Committee Democrats, in a letter sent to Chief Justice John Roberts on April 10, said Thomas' conduct violated ethical standards.

The committee plans to hold a hearing on the matter but a date has not yet been announced.

ProPublica reported on April 6 that Thomas accepted expensive trips from Republican donor and real estate magnate Harlan Crow over decades without disclosing them.

Thomas defended the trips, saying he had been advised he was not required to report that type of "personal hospitality." But the conservative justice said he would abide by new, tighter rules that recently took effect.

(Reporting by Katharine Jackson and Moira Warburton in Washington; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama and Cynthia Osterman)
Residents across the northeastern United States have been riding a temperature roller coaster in recent days as high temperatures soared to summerlike levels only to abruptly plummet back to the chillier conditions more typical of early spring. AccuWeather forecasters say this temperature tug-of-war will not come to an end anytime soon, and a potent storm may also disrupt weekend plans.

Late last week, high-temperature records were broken across a 1,100-mile-long swath of the U.S. that stretched from the Midwest all the way to the Atlantic coast. Over the past weekend, many of these same locations encountered dramatically lower high temperatures, some nearly 40 degrees Fahrenheit less than the previous 24-48 hours.

GET THE FREE ACCUWEATHER APP

Have the app? Unlock AccuWeather Alerts with Premium+

Another significant warmup and subsequent cooldown are in store for the Northeast spanning Thursday to Monday.

Tuesday was the coolest day across most of the northeastern U.S. as chilly air pushed south from Canada. Morning commuters in portions of Pennsylvania and New York saw a few snowflakes fly in the midst of showery and drizzly weather. In State College, Pennsylvania, temperatures reached just 42 degrees Tuesday, with the city spending most of the day in the 30s. AccuWeather RealFeel Temperatures dipped into the 20s for a time. In comparison, high temperatures in Happy Valley reached the mid-80s last week.

Temperatures began to moderate on Wednesday and ended up at levels somewhat more typical of mid-April by the end of the day for the central Appalachians and the mid-Atlantic region.

Places like New York City and Allentown, Pennsylvania, both reached a high temperature in the mid-60s on Wednesday. While high temperatures are set to return to seasonable levels, a jacket may still come in handy for folks headed outdoors.

Following only a slight uptick in temperatures Wednesday, Thursday will be a different story entirely.

"Areas with high temperatures only in the 40s F to near 50 F on Tuesday will see a remarkable turnaround to near-record warmth by Thursday," AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Dan Pydynowski said.

Story continues

Residents in cities like Pittsburgh, where temperatures spent most of Tuesday in the 40s, only reaching the low 50s in the late afternoon, will experience much warmer weather Thursday. Highs in the Steel City will reach the mid-80s Thursday and challenge the existing record temperature of 86 from 1941.

Thursday will be a great day to get outside and take advantage of the warmth and dry weather, forecasters say.

"People will be shedding winter coats for shorts and t-shirts," Pydynowski said.

Friday is likely to be even warmer across the Northeast, with additional high-temperature records likely to be challenged. A cool breeze from the Atlantic may sweep inland in portions of Delaware, New Jersey and southeastern New York. But, just west of this sea breeze, temperatures will soar into the 80s.

The chances for showers will return for some areas Friday as a cold front begins to move through the Great Lakes. However, the stormiest weather of the week is expected to occur by the start of the weekend.

"A potent cold front will track across the interior Northeast late Saturday, bringing a swath of drenching rain to the region," AccuWeather Meteorologist Alyssa Smithmyer said. Conditions will become blustery earlier in the day across parts of Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania and New York, she added.

"Heavy rain and thunderstorms are likely to hold off in Washington, D.C., until the mid-afternoon and perhaps the end of the day around Philadelphia," AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Alex Sosnowski said. "Stormy conditions probably will not evolve until Saturday night in New York City, but it could become quite nasty with heavy rain and gusty winds and even thunder and lightning."

Portions of the mid-Atlantic and central Appalachians may have to face severe weather from Saturday afternoon to Saturday night.

"As the storms or windswept rain pivots through the mid-Atlantic corridor, the number of flight delays and cancelations will increase substantially," Sosnowski said.

Anyone with scheduled outdoor activities will have to plan accordingly and keep an eye on MinuteCast with the free AccuWeather app.

In the wake of Saturday's storminess, temperatures will once again crash Sunday.

"By the end of the weekend, jackets will have to come back out as temperatures tumble yet again as the topsy-turvy trend continues," Pydynowski said.

The air may turn cold enough to allow widespread areas of frosts and freezes over the interior Northeast with low temperatures in the 20s to low 30s in store on Sunday night and Monday night.

Want next-level safety, ad-free? Unlock advanced, hyperlocal severe weather alerts when you subscribe to Premium+ on the AccuWeather app. AccuWeather Alerts are prompted by our expert meteorologists who monitor and analyze dangerous weather risks 24/7 to keep you and your family safer.
Charges against nearly two dozen protesters arrested at the Kentucky Capitol in March are moving forward, as of Tuesday morning.

The 20 people who were charged made their first court appearances Tuesday. All 20 pleaded not guilty to a sole count of third-degree criminal trespassing before Franklin District Judge Kathy Margeot.

They were arrested inside the House of Representatives gallery March 29 while protesting against Senate Bill 150, which banned gender-affirming care for trans youth.

In addition to banning puberty-blockers, hormones and surgeries for kids under 18, Senate Bill 150 bans lessons on gender identity and sexual orientation, prevents transgender students from using the bathroom that corresponds with their gender identity and stops school districts from requiring teachers to use a students pronouns if they dont align with their sex assigned at birth.

Nearly a dozen attorneys appeared on behalf of the clients, who are now scheduled to reappear in court for a pretrial conference at 10 a.m. on May 30.

There have been calls for the protesters charges to be cleared. The Fairness Campaign, a Kentucky advocacy group for LGBTQ rights, tweeted support for the protesters being pardoned. Its unclear if that will be the case. It was previously reported 19 individuals were arrested, but KSP later confirmed 20 were charged.

Attorneys present at Tuesdays proceedings said they have not yet spoken with Franklin County Attorney Max Comley about dropping the charges.

Story continues

Comley didnt respond to multiple requests for comment by phone and email prior to publication.

Comley told the judge Tuesday he wouldget the chance to speak with arresting KSP officers before the upcoming May court hearing.

Rebecca Grant, one of the defendants in the case, told the Herald-Leader she plans to fight her charges. In addition to criminal trespassing, Grant, a disabled war veteran, was charged with having prescription pills not in their proper container.

She said she took part in the protests to stand up for transgender children, and said having access to gender affirming care as a child would have been transformative for them.

My trans siblings and allies showed up to the state capitol where we do not have representation in the legislature, Grant said. There are no trans legislators. There are barely any gay, bi, or lesbian legislators either. We showed up and when they presented a bill that would discriminate against trans children, we used our free speech to speak out against that.

Trans people are part of this community, we deserve to have a voice. We deserve to have equal opportunities, and until we have those same opportunities, especially medical access, we will keep on speaking up.

The defendants were among the hundreds who showed up to the steps of the Capitol Annex to protest the overriding of Gov. Andy Beshears veto of Senate Bill 150. Once the legislature gaveled in, protesters moved inside and could be heard chanting from the halls.

Capitol security and state police struggled to remove the protesters from the gallery, but then resorted to using zip ties to take the protesters into custody and lead them outside of the Capitol.

Security is now using zip ties to remove protestors, who had locked arms pic.twitter.com/UIDflC2E5p  Austin Horn (@_AustinHorn) March 29, 2023

KSP gave each individual the option to leave without any enforcement action or be placed under arrest, Capt. Paul Blanton, a spokesperson for KSP, said in a previous statement.

Reporters Austin Horn and Tessa Duvall contributed to this story.
A decade after the Tri-Cities planetarium opened, visitors are being treated to brighter, higher resolution panoramas across its viewing dome and a new learning lobby.

The Columbia Basin College planetarium closed in mid January for upgrades and reopened this month with a new laser projection system, plus state-of-the-art software, an updated and programmable theater lighting system, and new lobby exhibits.

On Tuesday, April 18, CBC plans a ribbon cutting and will recognize Hanford contractor Central Plateau Cleanup Co., or CPCCo, as the new naming rights sponsor of the planetarium.

The company has committed to donating $350,000 to what is now called CPCCo Planetarium.

With the companys help the planetarium now has a new projection system that doubles the resolution on its 36-foot viewing dome.

CPCCos investment in the new projector creates a memorable, engaging experience that audiences will not only remember, but come back to enjoy again and again, says CBC President Rebekah Woods.

The Columbia Basin College planetarium has reopened after upgrades, including a learning lobby with information about astronomy.

The original 10-year-old projection system could not be upgraded and needed to be replaced, said Elizabeth Burtner, CBC assistant vice president for communications.

The lighting system around the dome also is new, with multicolor, programmable LED lights.

The lobby has a new look after HAPO Community Credit Union continued its support with a $150,000 donation to create a more immersive learning experience.

The Columbia Basin College planetarium, now called the CPCCo Planetarium, has reopened with a new projector in its center that doubles the resolution on its domw

The lobby now has a moonscape and earthscape and information in English and Spanish on topics such as meteoroids, gas and ice giants, and the oort cloud.

Over the past decade 147,000 people have visited the planetarium, with about 44% of them high school students and younger.

Visitors to the planetarium see an hour-long show. It starts with a live presentation that often includes a look at stars, constellations and planets that will be seen in the sky that night and a discussion of astronomy topics that are making news.

Then an astronomy or other science-themed film is projected on the dome.

Story continues

The planetarium is in the D building on CBCs Pasco campus and can be reached from Argent Road via Farm Road.

The Columbia Basin College planetarium has reopened after upgrades, including a learning lobby with information about astronomy.

Tickets currently cost $8 for adults, $7 for seniors and $5 for children 6 to 12, but some prices will increase this summer. Individuals and families also can purchase annual memberships.

Tickets must be bought online. Go to bit.ly/43E3q0t or find a link to purchase tickets for each show on the CPCCo Planetarium Facebook page.

Planetarium show schedule

Heres the upcoming schedule of planetarium shows through May:

 Edge of Darkness shows at 7 p.m. Friday, April 21 and 2 p.m. Saturday, May 13. Recommended for middle school and older. It features scenes of places gathered during space missions, including the first close up of Pluto and its moons and the bright lights of Ceres, a dwarf planet.

 The Little Star That Could shows at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 29. Recommended for preschool through second-grade. A yellow star searches for planets to warm and protect, providing children with basic information about the solar system.

 Violent Universe shows at 7 p.m. Friday, May 5. Recommended for fourth-grade and older. Patrick Stewart narrates a show about the power of the universe, with stars collapsing under their own gravity and infernos of nuclear energy releasing deadly radiation.

 Robot Explorers shows at 7 p.m. Friday, May 19. Recommended for fourth-grade and older. Unmanned probes were launched into the far reaches of the solar system in recent decades to beam information back to Earth.

 Kaluokahina: The Enchanted Reef shows at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 27. Recommended for elementary school ages and older. A young cartoon sawfish and his friend go on a quest to save an enchanted, underwater reef.

Other shows scheduled through the summer focus on Pluto, trees, stars, cells, telescopes and black holes.
Photo Illustration by The Daily Beast / Getty

EASTERN UKRAINEExplosions blasted in the backdrop as soldiers from the Ukrainian 10th Mountain Assault brigade prepared a drone for takeoff. The unit was in a shielded position two kilometers from the front line, north of the Russian-controlled Soledar in Eastern Ukraine.

The Daily Beast was with the drone unit last monthhidden among trees with a dugout for cover last as the Russian army returned fire. Drone units are the eyes of the Ukrainian army, and their work is crucial in identifying Russian military equipment, such as tanks and artillery.

Soon after the drone unit had arrived, a Ukrainian position nearby was repeatedly hit by Russians forces. The drone was sent up to locate the source, and a Russian anti-tank gun was soon discovered near some trees. Petro, a corporal in the Ukrainian army and leader of the drone unit, called it in. A Ukrainian artillery unit responded, but only with one shot.

Petro told The Daily Beast it takes about six artillery shells to eliminate a target, but ammunition shortages forced them to use a single shotjust enough to scare the Russian anti-tank gun into backing away.

A grenade can be sent to scare, and then they [Russia forces] dont work for an hour or two, said Petro. It is obvious that we need more ammunition. The Russians also have ammunition problems but generally have a lot of equipment. We do our best to respond.

A big problem

Ukrainian soldiers often describe the war as an artillery duel. Cities along the front line are getting pounded day and night, especially key cities like Bakhmut and Avdiivka. Ammunition shortages are now being reported all along the frontl ines.

Youre on the front line. Theyre coming toward you, and theres nothing to shoot with, a battalion commander in the 46th Air Assault Brigade told The Washington Post last month. Ukrainian soldiers defending the encircled city of Bakhmut have also reported shortages to local outlets. We need ammo, ammo, ammo, Illia, a mortarman with the 3017th unit of Ukraine National Guard, told the Kyiv Independent recently, adding that they often only get 10 shells a day, enough for a minute's work.

Story continues

A soldier with the Ukrainian 3rd Separate Assault Brigade in Eastern Ukraine, who spoke with The Daily Beast on the condition of anonymity, shared similar stories. He added that despite difficulties, his men continue to fight, inflicting high casualties on the advancing Russian army.

The roads to the positions are muddy. Only trucks can make the way. Stefan

The West, meanwhile, is desperately trying to increase production for Ukraine. On March 20, the EU agreed to increase output and send one million ammunition rounds to Ukraine within 12 months.

We have to admit that a million shells are a minimum of what Ukraine needsbut this is still far from what Ukraine needs to make a difference on the ground and support their offensive, Estonias Foreign Minister Urmas Reinsalu said about the deal.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has also demanded that the Russian defense industry increase its output of ammunition. In January, Sergei Chemezov, the head of the Russian defense company Rostec, said that its factories are working almost around the clock to make that happen.

No choice

Back with the drone unit, a sergeant, Oleg, told The Daily Beast that Western donations are essential for Ukraines ability to fight, but arent enough to cover the Ukrainian needs.

Our biggest problem is that we are running out of artillery shells To stop them [Russia], we must constantly work, work, work, and work. Grenades dont last forever. We cannot work as intensively as we would like, said Oleg in the dugout.

Petro added that at the beginning of the invasion, the Russians didnt always take cover and stayed in positions for a long time, making it easy to hit them. Now, they keep their tanks on the move. They adapt. They are starting to think about how to fight better. They learn from their problems and mistakes, explained Petro.

After launching the drone, the unit near Soledar had eyes on Russian positions on the other side of the front line, and followed their every move. They spotted Russian soldiers walking between buildings and tanks on the move, noted everything down and passed along the information to their command.

We either win, or we die. We have no other choice. Our people here are ready to die. We only want to win, said Oleg.

Eyes everywhere

Its not only Ukrainian drones roaming the sky near the front line. The Russians also try to locate Ukrainian positions with drones. From the dugout, the drone team could hear a Russian aircraft dropping bombs, sending shockwaves under their feet. The muddy dugout protects the team from fragments, but could collapse if hit directly.

At a field hospital nearby a few days later, The Daily Beast could see the human cost of the bombardments. Sergei, a 40-year-old Ukrainian soldier, arrived with a bandage on one eye after being struck by fragments of a blast near the front line.

The last thing he remembered was the sound of a Russian drone, soon followed by a Russian attack with mortar grenades, landing all over the field. One hit a soldier next to him, who died instantly, he said. Shocked, Sergei had dropped to the ground for cover. This was only his first day at the front line after training in Great Britain.

Oleg is ready to be taken to the position. He comes from Western Ukraine. Every day, he travels back and forth to the frontline to spot the Russian positions. Stefan

He said it is hard to describe the fighting on the front line for people who havent been there.

Its terrible, but I dont regret being here because Im fighting for my children to live in freedom, said Sergei, after discovering that, to his relief, a fragment had narrowly missed his eye.We lack equipment But it wont stop us from fighting and stopping them.

Others are not so lucky. Two soldiers arrived on stretchers, shaking from the cold and with fragments in their legs. Tourniquets had been wrapped around them for hours to stop the bleeding. They waited seven hours at the front line for evacuation after being hit.

One of them, who didnt want to provide his name, told The Daily Beast that despite the situation at the front, he was eager to return to the front line when he recovers. If the Ukrainians run out of ammunition, he said, he would simply use rocks to fight.

Petro joined the army at the beginning of the invasion. He has worked with drones ever since. Stefan

Cant stop

Oleg shared similar sentiments. He told The Daily Beast that there is no other option than Ukrainian victory. He pointed to an online video in March, allegedly showing a captured Ukrainian soldier being shot by Russians while saying: Glory to Ukraine.

For Oleg and Petro, it is impossible to make any deal with Russia after seeing videos like these. Russian victory will mean the end of the Ukrainian state, they said.

We have some of the best soldiers in the entire world. We opposed the second-largest army in the world very effectively. We are still here, not running away; we are ready to fight. We just need more artillery shells, Oled said. The most effective thing that NATO can do to stop Russia is to give us more ammunition. Then, we will stop them.

I hope that we can win this war as soon as possible so that we can go home, added Petro. I want to go home to my parents, my wife, and my brother. Go to work, go to a cafe, meet my friends.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now.

Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now.
Michael Taylor has his dad to thank after winning the lottery through Encore. (Courtesy: OLG)

Following his fathers advice and saying yes to Encore has paid off for an Ontario man who won $100,000 in the Oct. 29, Lotto 6/49 draw.

Michael Taylor, a 50-year-old truck driver from Burlington, has been playing the lottery for 30 years. Throughout this time, hes been using the same regular numbers that he received in a special way  from his late father in a dream.

My dad passed away, and in a dream, he gave me lottery numbers, said Taylor, while at the OLG Prize Centre in Toronto to pick up his winnings.

Ive been playing them ever since.

While he used his late dad's numbers for his original Lotto 6/49 picks, he got some additional luck through the computer generated Encore numbers.

He had matched six of seven Encore numbers, 3577146, in exact order leading to his big $100,000 win. The bonus game allows players to pay an extra $1 to attach to their already purchased ticket for a host game. Theres an Encore draw everyday.

Taylor, who is a father and grandfather himself, said he went to replay his ticket when he came across the big surprise.

It was all kind of a blur. When I saw $100,000 on the screen, my hands were shaking, said Taylor. I was so excited and happy of course.

His lucky ticket was purchased at a Fortinos on Appleby Line in Burlington, and while at the store, Taylor called his wife to share the news. She was in disbelief.

And she said, Stop lying to me! shared Taylor.

For Taylor and his family, the win means he can pay off his mortgage and retire early.

It was so fun, recalled Taylor.

It looks like paying attention to his dream and fathers intuition paid off.

Tools to stop gambling

If you're looking to take a break from gambling, self-exclusion programs can be effective tools. See here for resources that are available across Canada.

Related lotto stories from across Canada
Former President Donald Trump, who vowed to hire only the best people, is trashing yet another former top official from his administration.

This time, Trumps ire was directed at Mick Mulvaney, who served as his acting White House chief of staff from January 2019 to March 2020.

Since leaving Washington, I havent heard much about Liddle Mick Mulvaney, perhaps the dumbest person, along with John Bolton, working at the White House, Trump wrote in a Truth Social post Monday evening.

Trump claimed Mulvaney was named acting chief of staff because I never would have named him to the permanent position.

This guy was uncharismatic, a born loser, he wrote, slamming Mulvaney over his current gig as an on-air contributor at CBS News. No wonder they have No Ratings!

Its not clear what exactly triggered Trumps screed about Mulvaney, who also held jobs in the Trump administration as the director of the Office of Management and Budget and as a special envoy to Northern Ireland. He resigned from the latter role following the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol and has since become critical of the former president.

In November, after Trump announced his bid for the presidency, Mulvaney said it was a bad move for the GOP because Trump was the only Republican who could lose. And last month, on Fox News, Mulvaney said he would not support Trump in 2024 because Im not interested in backing a loser.

Despite boasting that he would surround himself with only the best and most serious people, Trumps administration and campaigns were plagued with personnel issues. A number of his former advisers went on to be charged with and convicted of crimes. Many former aides and appointees have been attacked and ridiculed by Trump himself, including former national security adviser John Bolton, FBI Director Christopher Wray and former Attorney General Jeff Sessions.

CORRECTION: A previous version of this story incorrectly referred to Christopher Wray as the FBIs former director. He is still in the role.

Related...
Former President Trump on Tuesday knocked Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) for actions against Disney in the state, saying the governor is being absolutely destroyed by the company.

DeSanctus is being absolutely destroyed by Disney. His original P.R. plan fizzled, so now hes going back with a new one in order to save face, Trump said on Truth Social, referring to the Florida governor by a nickname.

Trump speculated that Disneys next move will be the announcement that no more money will be invested in Florida because of the Governor. In fact, they could even announce a slow withdrawal or sale of certain properties, or the whole thing. Watch! That would be a killer.

DeSantis has been battling with Disney, which operates its Walt Disney World amusement park near Orlando. Hes sought to punish the company for speaking out against Floridas so-called Dont Say Gay law.

DeSantis on Monday said that the state could consider building a prison or potentially another amusement park next to land owned by Disney.

In the meantime, this is all so unnecessary, a political STUNT! Trump said Tuesday.

The former presidents comments come as he campaigns to retake the White House in 2024. Though the Florida governor hasnt declared an official bid, DeSantis is widely considered a top possible contender to run against Trump for the GOP nomination.

Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie (R) on Tuesday also criticized DeSantis for his back-and-forth with Disney, arguing his actions arent in line with a conservative stance on the interplay of government and business.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Donald Trump could be banned from ever entering the White House again due to his role in the January 6 attack on the US Capitol.

Two nonprofit groups argue that a Civil War-era rule disqualifies any officer of the United States from entering office in future after they have engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the US.

They claim Mr Trumps role before and during the riot proves he engaged in an insurrection and so, under Section 3 of the 14th Amendment, cannot run for president in 2024.

The groups have sent letters to state election officials asking them to block Mr Trump from going on the ballot, reported The Washington Post.

The legal effort comes as a judge ruled that Mr Trumps rape case against E Jean Carroll will go ahead as planned next week  knocking back the former presidents request for a delay.

In other issues, Mr Trumps battle with rival Republican Ron DeSantis continues to ramp up.

A super PAC supporting the Florida governor released a television ad accusing Mr Trump of stealing pages from the Biden-Pelosi playbook.

Mr Trump fired back on Truth Social on Monday, fuming that Ron DeSanctus was spreading Democrat Disinformation!

Key Points

Judge rejects another Trump attempt to delay E Jean Carroll trial

Trumps financial disclosures reveal his post-White house earnings

Trumps presidential campaign has raised $34m so far this year

Trump tells NRA conference he will end Bidens war on guns: What theyre doing is crazy

Donald Trump hits back at Ron DeSantis

What happened to Donald Trump? DeSantis supporting super PAC launches attack ad against former president

Stephen Colbert trolls Trump and Melania

19:25 , John Bowden

Stephen Colbert trolled Donald and Melania Trump on his late-night show on Monday.

OnThe Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Melania  played by Laura Benanti  made an appearance, seeking to put to bed the rumours about why she has fallen quiet after her husbands indictment.

The spoof Melania boasted she had been enjoying her life spending time with my family, enjoying roped-off brunches at my live-in golf prison, and disposing of top secret documents.

Story continues

She was also spending time eating classified documents. You can really taste the national security, she said.

Will Melania show up to support her husbands 2024 campaign? Join Stephen as he talks to her live from Mar-a-Lago.



Special thanks to our good friend Laura Benanti! pic.twitter.com/jodE2Yd7tQ  The Late Show (@colbertlateshow) April 18, 2023

Trump whines about not getting enough credit for not overcharging people for NFTs

18:55 , John Bowden

Another one of Donald Trumps Tuesday gripes on Truth Social centred around the issue of his trading cards  a set of digital NFTs marketed towards his supporters for his personal gain.

In a post, he made the bizarre complaint that media organisations were not patting him on the back for keeping the prices for the wholly purposeless items steady, despite, as he claimed, rising demand for the artistic offerings.

18:02 , John Bowden

Just yesterday, former President Donald Trump was hitting Florida Governor Ron DeSantis over another favourite GOP issue  the Second Amendment.

The former president disputed Mr DeSantiss claim in an ad that he was aligned with Democrats over the issue of gun rights.

Wow, thats like Democrat Disinformation! he wrote, also claiming that Ron DeSanctus didnt attend the NRA Convention over the weekend in person because he was concerned about being booed.

Heres the full post:

And heres what got him wound up:

Wow. New pro-Desantis Super PAC ad against Trump called, Trump the Gun Grabber. Played at the NRA Convention. Probably the best ad against Trump for the Republican primary Ive seen. pic.twitter.com/Z7Vqw7WVpb  Ron Filipkowski  (@RonFilipkowski) April 16, 2023

Trump claims Elon Musk trying to make friends with Joe Biden

17:20 , John Bowden

Donald Trump revealed his thoughts about Twitter CEO Elon Musk on Tuesday as the former president sees his own platform for conservatives, Truth Social, face financial struggles.

I dont believe Elon Musk voted for Biden, not for a minute! He told me that he voted for me, but who knows about that, and who cares? Elon is just trying to make friends with the absolutely horrible Biden Administration because of all the government subsidies he gets, and all the permits he needs. His space company, car company, battery company, tunnel company, and even Twitter, which was illegally controlled by the FBI, need government HELP & SUBSIDIES. HE IS JUST MENDING FENCES!

Nonprofits seek to disqualify Trump from 2024 ballot over January 6 riot

16:13 , John Bowden

Two nonprofit groups  including the group that challenged several GOP House members eligibility to serve because of their support for the January 6 attack on the Capitol  are looking to use the same provision of the US Constitution to keep Donald Trump off the ballot next year.

Mr Trumps support for the attack, the groups say, would fall under Section 3 of the 14th Amendment to the US Constitution, which prohibits any officer of the United States who has engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the country  after previously taking an oath to support the Constitution  from serving in any federal office.

Its a longshot bid by the groups, but spells out the kind of resistance Mr Trump is going to face from even centrist-aligned organisations heading in to 2024, thanks to the chaos that was 2020 and early 2021.

Read more from Andrew Feinberg:

Trump could be banned from ever entering White House again using Civil War-era clause

Trump: DeSantis is being destroyed by Disney'

15:14 , John Bowden

Donald Trump speculated that Ron DeSantis would lose his political war against the Disney corporation on Tuesday.

The president issued his latest attempt in his now months-long campaign to bait the Florida governor, who has not yet announced whether he will run for president despite heavy speculation around the matter, into a fight with a post on Truth Social that went live Tuesday morning after the governor made what his aides later clarified was a joking threat to place a new state prison near the massive Disney World resort.

DeSanctus is being absolutely destroyed by Disney, Mr Trump claimed in the post. His original P.R. plan fizzled, so now hes going back with a new one in order to save face. Disneys next move will be the announcement that no more money will be invested in Florida because of the Governor - In fact, they could even announce a slow withdrawal or sale of certain properties, or the whole thing. Watch! That would be a killer. In the meantime, this is all so unnecessary, a political STUNT! Ron should work on the squatter MESS!

FEC filings show Trump made less than $200 from Truth Social

14:37 , John Bowden

Donald Trumps personal financial disclosure reports with the Federal Election Commission offer the first public glimpse into his earnings and financial state since leaving the White House in 2021.

Alex Woodward took a look at the details.

Donald Trump made less than $200 from Truth Social, filings show

ICYMI: Protesters shout at Jim Jordan outside of House hearing in New York City

13:45 , Oliver O'Connell

As Republican Representative Jim Jordan attempted to hold a House Judiciary Committee hearing in New York attacking Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg, protesters could be heard shouting and chanting outside.

Let the public in, a group of protesters shouted from the hallway located directly outside of the room where Mr Jordan and the House Judiciary Committee held their meeting on Monday,

Outside of the Jacob Javits Federal Building in downtown Manhattan, another group of protesters chanted, Hey hey, ho, ho, Jim Jordans got to go.

Ariana Baio reports from New York City.

Protesters shout at Jim Jordan outside of House hearing in NYC on Alvin Bragg

McCarthy hits Biden for not negotiating with GOP on debt ceiling

13:15 , Oliver O'Connell

The White House may be on track for a political victory over the debt limit as the GOP Speaker of the House looks at least somewhat unwilling to threaten Americas credit by blocking an increase to the debt limit.

But that didnt stop Kevin McCarthy from hammering President Joe Biden on the issue of not negotiating with Republicans over spending decreases at all, as the White House has maintained that the president wants to see the GOPs budget proposal in full before any such talks begin.

Mr McCarthy spoke Monday morning at the opening bell of the New York Stock Exchange, before sitting down for a Q&A with the NYSEs president.

John Bowden reports.

Kevin McCarthy hits Biden for not negotiating with GOP on debt limit

Stephen Colbert trolls Trump and Melania

12:45 , Rachel Sharp

Stephen Colbert trolled Donald and Melania Trump on his late-night show on Monday.

OnThe Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Melania  played by Laura Benanti  made an appearance, seeking to put to bed the rumours about why she has fallen quiet after her husbands indictment.

The spoof Melania boasted she had been enjoying her life spending time with my family, enjoying roped-off brunches at my live-in golf prison, and disposing of top secret documents.

She was also spending time eating classified documents. You can really taste the national security, she said.

Will Melania show up to support her husbands 2024 campaign? Join Stephen as he talks to her live from Mar-a-Lago.



Special thanks to our good friend Laura Benanti! pic.twitter.com/jodE2Yd7tQ  The Late Show (@colbertlateshow) April 18, 2023

Trump could be banned from office over Jan

12:15 , Rachel Sharp

Donald Trump could be banned from ever entering the White House again due to his role in the January 6 attack on the US Capitol.

Two nonprofit groups argue that a Civil War-era rule disqualifies any officer of the United States from entering office in future after they have engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the US.

They claim Mr Trumps role before and during the riot proves he engaged in an insurrection and so, under Section 3 of the 14th Amendment, cannot run for president in 2024.

The groups have sent letters to state election officials asking them to block Mr Trump from going on the ballot, reported The Washington Post.

Trump takes Truth Social shot at DeSantis over Second Amendment record

11:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Monday lunchtime on Truth Social, and former President Donald Trump has hit out at his favourite foe, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.

This time the topic was the Second Amendment, with the former president disputing Mr DeSantiss claim in an ad that he was aligned with Democrats over the issue of gun rights.

Wow, thats like Democrat Disinformation! he wrote, also claiming that Ron DeSanctus didnt attend the NRA Convention over the weekend in person because he was concerned about being booed.

Heres the full post:

And heres what got him wound up:

Wow. New pro-Desantis Super PAC ad against Trump called, Trump the Gun Grabber. Played at the NRA Convention. Probably the best ad against Trump for the Republican primary Ive seen. pic.twitter.com/Z7Vqw7WVpb  Ron Filipkowski  (@RonFilipkowski) April 16, 2023

George Santos announces re-election bid

10:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Its happening, GOP Rep George Santos is officially running for re-election in New Yorks 3rd District.

The controversial congressman made the announcement on Twitter on Monday afternoon. He is the subject of ongoing investigations at the local, state, and federal levels, and there have been numerous calls for him to resign.

ANNOUNCEMENT: I am proudly announcing my bid for re-election for #NY03. This is about TAKING BACK our country and restoring greatness back to New York.



To support donate here:https://t.co/BH2nGK54vp pic.twitter.com/LGJdPcsyP6  George Santos (@Santos4Congress) April 17, 2023

If news taints rape-trial jurors, Trump shares blame, says judge

09:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Donald Trumps rape trial will begin next week as scheduled after a federal judge on Monday rejected his lawyers request for a one-month delay, saying the former president cannot make public statements to promote pretrial publicity and then claim its prejudicial to him and reason to delay a trial.

Judge Lewis Kaplan in Manhattan said the civil trial on claims against Trump by a longtime columnist, E Jean Carroll, will begin as scheduled on 25 April. Trump denies the rape happened or that he ever knew Carroll.

Read more...

Judge: If news taints rape-trial jurors, Trump shares blame

Is Fox News about to pay the price for giving Trumps 2020 lies a platform?

07:45 , Oliver O'Connell

This week, a judge in Delaware, where Fox is incorporated, is expected to preside over a six-week jury trial stemming from Dominions $1.6bn lawsuit against the network, which will defend itself against Dominions argument that false statements about the company in the wake of the election were defamatory, costing Dominion significant business and reputational harm.

On Sunday evening Judge Eric Davis announced that the trial had been suddenly delayed  mere hours before opening statements were scheduled to begin on Monday morning.

No explanation was given for the sudden delay but multiple reports have revealed that Fox News is now pushing to settle the case before the trial gets under way.

Alex Woodward reports from Delaware.

Will Fox News pay the price for giving a platform to Trumps election lies?

Judge rejects Trumps last-minute bid to delay E Jean Carroll trial

05:45 , Oliver O'Connell

A federal judge in New York City has rejected former president Donald Trumps 11th-hour attempt to once again postpone his long-delayed civil defamation and rape trial on the grounds that publicity surrounding his recent indictment necessitated a cooling-off period to ensure an impartial jury.

Judge Lewis Kaplan on Monday ordered the trial, which stems from two civil lawsuits brought against the ex-president by writer E Jean Carroll, to commence on 25 April as previously scheduled.

Andrew Feinberg reports.

Judge rejects Trumps last-minute bid to delay rape and defamation trial

Fox News to point finger at Trump in defence of defamation case

03:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Fox News could introduce evidence that others  including former president Donald Trump  made similar claims about Dominion Voting Systems for the purposes of rebutting Dominions malice case in a closely watched defamation trial against the right-wing network.

Fox also could present evidence of other defamers for purposes of contesting causation, according to a filing in Delaware Superior Court.

Alex Woodward reports from Wilmington.

Fox News plans to fight Dominions defamation case by pointing finger at Trump

McCarthy hits Biden for not negotiating with GOP on debt limit

01:45 , Oliver O'Connell

The White House may be on track for a political victory over the debt limit as the GOP Speaker of the House looks at least somewhat unwilling to threaten Americas credit by blocking an increase to the debt limit.

But that didnt stop Kevin McCarthy from hammering President Joe Biden on the issue of not negotiating with Republicans over spending decreases at all, as the White House has maintained that the president wants to see the GOPs budget proposal in full before any such talks begin.

John Bowden reports from Washington, DC.

Kevin McCarthy hits Biden for not negotiating with GOP on debt limit

Trump says if elected he will force federal workers to pass a political test

Monday 17 April 2023 23:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Former president Donald Trump said that if he returns to the White House in 2025, he will mandate that federal employes take a civil service test and workers who do not pass would be fired.

The former president made the remarks in a video released on Friday.

Eric Garcia has the story.

Trump says he will make federal workers take political test and fire those who fail

Kari Lake claims Trump is only person who could beat her in Senate race

Monday 17 April 2023 23:15 , Oliver O'Connell

Kari Lake claims Donald Trump is the only person who could beat her in the Arizona Senate race. She made the remarks in conversation with Kimberly Guilfoyle.

Watch:

Kari Lake tells Guilfoyle today that she saw some new polling today that said the only person who could beat her in the US Senate race in AZ is Trump. pic.twitter.com/HhSSrhRdws  Ron Filipkowski  (@RonFilipkowski) April 17, 2023

Fetterman puts hands over heart as he returns to Senate after six-week hospitalization for depression

Monday 17 April 2023 22:45 , Oliver O'Connell

SenatorJohn Fetterman returned to the United States Senate on Monday after treatment for depression kept him away for six weeks.

Mr Fetterman exited his car in his trademark black hooded sweatshirt, gym shorts and sneakers and placed his hand over his heart as he returned to the chamber ahead of votes on Monday afternoon.

Mr Fetterman posted a photo of his return to the Senate.

Its good to be back, he tweeted.

Eric Garcia reports from Capitol Hill.

John Fetterman returns to Senate after six-week hospitalization for depression

Earlier: Judge rejects Trumps last-minute bid to delay rape and defamation trial

Monday 17 April 2023 22:15 , Oliver O'Connell

A federal judge in New York City has rejected former president Donald Trumps 11th-hour attempt to once again postpone his long-delayed civil defamation and rape trial on the grounds that publicity surrounding his recent indictment necessitated a cooling-off period to ensure an impartial jury.

Judge Lewis Kaplan on Monday ordered the trial, which stems from two civil lawsuits brought against the ex-president by writer E Jean Carroll, to commence on 25 April as previously scheduled.

Andrew Feinberg has the latest:

Judge rejects Trumps last-minute bid to delay rape and defamation trial

Schiff: Blind loyalty to the disgraced former president is all that matters'

Monday 17 April 2023 21:50 , Oliver O'Connell

California Democratic Rep Adam Schiff had a few thoughts on Jim Jordans away day in New York City this morning.

Jim Jordans attempt to intimidate the Manhattan DA is another effort to place the former president above the law. And undermine the interests of justice. It wont succeed, but then that is not the point. Blind loyalty to the disgraced former president is all that matters.

Rep Adam Schiff

Watch below:

Jim Jordan's attempt to intimidate the Manhattan DA is another effort to place the former president above the law.



And undermine the interests of justice.



It wont succeed, but then that is not the point.



Blind loyalty to the disgraced former president is all that matters. pic.twitter.com/09HOV2WFUX  Adam Schiff (@RepAdamSchiff) April 17, 2023

McConnell: Its good to be back'

Monday 17 April 2023 21:25 , Oliver O'Connell

Senator Mitch McConnell is back in the Senate after recovering from a concussion and a broken rib sustained during a fall.

Its good to be back. I want to thank all my colleagues for their warm wishes shared over the past few weeks, he told the upper chamber of Congress. This wasnt the first time that being hardheaded has served me very well.

Watch:

McConnell: It's good to be back. I want to thank all my colleagues for their warm wishes shared over the past few weeks. This wasn't the first time that being hardheaded has served me very well. pic.twitter.com/NXZpbs9LXf  Acyn (@Acyn) April 17, 2023

Heres what happened to Mr McConnell:

Mitch McConnell discharged from hospital six days after hotel fall

Schumer says McCarthy continues to bumble our economy towards a catastrophic default

Monday 17 April 2023 21:05 , Oliver O'Connell

One thing is clear from this mornings theatre at the New York Stock Exchange: Democrats want to avoid defaulting on our countrys debts. Meanwhile, Speaker McCarthy continues to bumble our economy towards a catastrophic default.

Senator Chuck Schumer

Watch:

.@SenSchumer (D-NY): "One thing is clear from this morning's theater at the New York Stock Exchange: Democrats want to avoid defaulting on our country's debts. Meanwhile, Speaker McCarthy continues to bumble our economy towards a catastrophic default." https://t.co/TiYcNeSrNi pic.twitter.com/QBOsSJ8bk4  CSPAN (@cspan) April 17, 2023

George Santos announces re-election bid

Monday 17 April 2023 20:57 , Oliver O'Connell

Its happening, GOP Rep George Santos is officially running for re-election in New Yorks 3rd District.

The controversial congressman made the announcement on Twitter on Monday afternoon. He is the subject of ongoing investigations at the local, state, and federal levels, and there have been numerous calls for him to resign.

ANNOUNCEMENT: I am proudly announcing my bid for re-election for #NY03. This is about TAKING BACK our country and restoring greatness back to New York.



To support donate here:https://t.co/BH2nGK54vp pic.twitter.com/LGJdPcsyP6  George Santos (@Santos4Congress) April 17, 2023

FEC filings show Trump made less than $200 from Truth Social

Monday 17 April 2023 20:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Donald Trumps personal financial disclosure reports with the Federal Election Commission offer the first public glimpse into his earnings and financial state since leaving the White House in 2021.

Alex Woodward took a look at the details.

Donald Trump made less than $200 from Truth Social, filings show

Fetterman returns to Congress

Monday 17 April 2023 20:20 , Oliver O'Connell

Senator John Fetterman has returned to Capitol Hill for the first time since mid-February after treatment for clinical depression.

Sen. @JohnFetterman (D-PA) returns to Capitol Hill after a two-month absence during which he received treatment for clinical depression at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. https://t.co/6tjy3Wlngo pic.twitter.com/YS9E9gzfCu  CSPAN (@cspan) April 17, 2023

DeSantis supporting super PAC launches Trump attack ad

Monday 17 April 2023 20:00 , Oliver O'Connell

A super PAC supporting Florida Governor Ron DeSantis released a television ad attacking former President Donald Trump, accusing him of spending airtime and money attacking the likely Republican presidential candidate.

Donald Trump is being attacked by a Democrat prosecutor in New York, the ads narrator says. So why is he spending millions attacking the Republican governor of Florida? Trumps stealing pages from the Biden-Pelosi playbook.

Graig Graziosi reports.

What happened to Donald Trump? DeSantis super PAC launches attack ad

Trump takes Truth Social shot at DeSantis over Second Amendment record

Monday 17 April 2023 19:35 , Oliver O'Connell

Monday lunchtime on Truth Social, and former President Donald Trump has hit out at his favourite foe, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.

This time the topic was the Second Amendment, with the former president disputing Mr DeSantiss claim in an ad that he was aligned with Democrats over the issue of gun rights.

Wow, thats like Democrat Disinformation! he wrote, also claiming that Ron DeSanctus didnt attend the NRA Convention over the weekend in person because he was concerned about being booed.

Heres the full post:

And heres what got him wound up:

Wow. New pro-Desantis Super PAC ad against Trump called, Trump the Gun Grabber. Played at the NRA Convention. Probably the best ad against Trump for the Republican primary Ive seen. pic.twitter.com/Z7Vqw7WVpb  Ron Filipkowski  (@RonFilipkowski) April 16, 2023

Investigation into possible gunshot near Vice Presidents residence

Monday 17 April 2023 19:10 , Oliver O'Connell

The Secret Service is investigating reports of a single shot that was fired near the US Naval Observatory which is the home of Vice President Kamala Harris and First Gentleman Doug Emhoff.

Officers with the Secret Service Uniformed Division responded to the reports around 1.30 am EST on Monday according to a report from NBC News.

Ariana Baio reports.

Possible gunshot near Vice President Harris residence is being investigated

Protesters shout at Jim Jordan outside of House hearing in New York City

Monday 17 April 2023 18:50 , Oliver O'Connell

As Republican Representative Jim Jordan attempted to hold a House Judiciary Committee hearing in New York attacking Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg, protesters could be heard shouting and chanting outside.

Let the public in, a group of protesters shouted from the hallway located directly outside of the room where Mr Jordan and the House Judiciary Committee held their meeting on Monday,

Outside of the Jacob Javits Federal Building in downtown Manhattan, another group of protesters chanted, Hey hey, ho, ho, Jim Jordans got to go.

Ariana Baio reports from New York City.

Protesters shout at Jim Jordan outside of House hearing in NYC on Alvin Bragg

Schumer hits out at McCarthy over debt ceiling speech

Monday 17 April 2023 18:21 , Oliver O'Connell

Senator Chuck Schumer hit out at Republican Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy over his debt ceiling speech this morning.

He went all the way to Wall Street and gave us no new details, no new facts, no new information at all, said Mr Schumer, warning of a Republican default crisis.

President Biden and I are happy to meet with the speaker when he has something to talk about  a plan.

The senator adds that without a House GOP debt plan what are we going to talk about? The furniture?

President Biden and I are happy to meet with the speaker when he has something to talk about: a plan.



Adds that without a House GOP debt plan what are we going to talk about? The furniture?  Garrett Haake (@GarrettHaake) April 17, 2023

ICYMI: Trump tells NRA conference he will end Bidens war on guns

Monday 17 April 2023 17:55 , Oliver O'Connell

Donald Trump told the National Rifle Association conference that he would end Joe Bidens war on guns and vowed to protect ownership rights forever despite a recent spate of mass shootings.

The one-term president made the promise during a keynote address in Indianapolis, Indiana, where he told NRA members that he would be the maligned groups loyal friend and fearless champion if he returns to the White House after the 2024 presidential election.

Graeme Massie reports.

Trump tells NRA conference he will end Bidens war on guns

Monday 17 April 2023 17:35 , Oliver O'Connell

Fox News could introduce evidence that others  including former president Donald Trump  made similar claims about Dominion Voting Systems for the purposes of rebutting Dominions malice case in a closely watched defamation trial against the right-wing network.

Fox also could present evidence of other defamers for purposes of contesting causation, according to a filing in Delaware Superior Court.

Fox News plans to fight Dominions defamation case by pointing finger at Trump

Will Fox News pay the price over Trumps 2020 election lies?

Monday 17 April 2023 17:10 , Oliver O'Connell

This week, a judge in Delaware, where Fox is incorporated, is expected to preside over a six-week jury trial stemming from Dominions $1.6bn lawsuit against the network, which will defend itself against Dominions argument that false statements about the company in the wake of the election were defamatory, costing Dominion significant business and reputational harm.

On Sunday evening Judge Eric Davis announced that the trial had been suddenly delayed  mere hours before opening statements were scheduled to begin on Monday morning.

No explanation was given for the sudden delay but multiple reports have revealed that Fox News is now pushing to settle the case before the trial gets under way.

Alex Woodward reports from Wilmington, Delaware.

Will Fox News pay the price for giving a platform to Trumps election lies?

McCarthy hits Biden for not negotiating with GOP on debt ceiling

Monday 17 April 2023 16:45 , Oliver O'Connell

The White House may be on track for a political victory over the debt limit as the GOP Speaker of the House looks at least somewhat unwilling to threaten Americas credit by blocking an increase to the debt limit.

But that didnt stop Kevin McCarthy from hammering President Joe Biden on the issue of not negotiating with Republicans over spending decreases at all, as the White House has maintained that the president wants to see the GOPs budget proposal in full before any such talks begin.

Mr McCarthy spoke Monday morning at the opening bell of the New York Stock Exchange, before sitting down for a Q&A with the NYSEs president.

John Bowden reports.

Kevin McCarthy hits Biden for not negotiating with GOP on debt limit

Full story: Judge rejects Trumps last-minute bid to delay rape and defamation trial

Monday 17 April 2023 16:25 , Oliver O'Connell

A federal judge in New York City has rejected former president Donald Trumps eleventh-hour attempt to once again postpone his long-delayed civil defamation and rape trial on the grounds that publicity surrounding his recent indictment necessitated a cooling-off period to ensure an impartial jury.

Judge Lewis Kaplan on Monday ordered the trial, which stems from two civil lawsuits brought against the ex-president by writer E Jean Carroll, to commence on 25 April as previously scheduled.

Andrew Feinberg has the full story.

Judge rejects Trumps last-minute bid to delay rape and defamation trial

Trump weighs in again on Fox News trial

Monday 17 April 2023 16:05 , Oliver O'Connell

Former President Donald Trump has weighed in again on the Fox News v Dominion trial, which is scheduled to get underway tomorrow.

In an all-caps post on his social media platform, Mr Trump implored Rupert Murdoch: JUST TELL THE TRUTH AND GOOD THINGS WILL HAPPEN. THE ELECTION OF 2020 WAS RIGGED AND STOLLENYOU KNOW IT, & SO DOES EVERYONE ELSE!

Heres the full post:

Watch: Congressman says Most of the really angry voices here are faking it

Monday 17 April 2023 15:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Ive been in Congress for 100 days.



Most of the really angry voices here are faking it. pic.twitter.com/fdWgve81FZ  Rep. Jeff Jackson (@JeffJacksonNC) April 17, 2023

Federal judge rejects another Trump attempt to delay E Jean Carroll trial

Monday 17 April 2023 15:12 , Oliver O'Connell

A federal judge has rejected another request by Donald Trumps legal team to delay the E Jean Carroll civil rape trial.

Mr Trump sought a supposed cooling off period from the media coverage of his indictment.

In denying the request for a delay, the judge noted: Events happen during postponements. Sometimes they can make matters worse.

In denying Trump's request for a delay, the judge noted:



"Events happen during postponements. Sometimes they can make matters worse.



The footnote that follows this quote rattles off Trump's legal peril. #AlwaysReadTheFootnotes pic.twitter.com/pfwNuRBMWk  Adam Klasfeld (@KlasfeldReports) April 17, 2023

Trump says if elected he will force federal workers to pass a political test

Monday 17 April 2023 15:05 , Oliver O'Connell

Former president Donald Trump said that if he returns to the White House in 2025, he will mandate that federal employes take a civil service test and workers who do not pass would be fired.

The former president made the remarks in a video released on Friday.

Eric Garcia reports from Washington, DC.

Trump says he will make federal workers take political test and fire those who fail

Ron DeSantis supporters open new front in 2024 campaign: TV ads

Monday 17 April 2023 14:00 , Josh Marcus

A super PAC supporting Florida Governor Ron DeSantis released a television ad attacking former President Donald Trump, accusing him of spending airtime and money attacking the likely Republican presidential candidate.

Donald Trump is being attacked by a Democrat prosecutor in New York, the ads narrator says. So why is he spending millions attacking the Republican governor of Florida? Trumps stealing pages from the Biden-Pelosi playbook.

Mr DeSantis is expected to announce a bid for the White House in 2024, though he has not formally confirmed his candidacy.

The ad focuses in part on Social Security, which Mr DeSantis has previously stated should begin when American workers turn 70, rather than the current age of 65. The Florida governor has since changed his position, arguing the program should not be touched during negotiations, according to The Hill.

Graig Graziosi reports.

What happened to Donald Trump? DeSantis super PAC launches attack ad

Trump claims Dominions lawsuit against Fox News would be weakened if network stands by his election lies

Monday 17 April 2023 13:33 , Rachel Sharp

Donald Trump is also weighing in on Fox News defamation case with Dominion Voting Systems.

In an early morning Truth Social post on Monday, the former president falsely claimed Dominions lawsuit would be weakened if the network stands by his 2020 presidential election lies.

IF FOX WOULD FINALLY ADMIT THAT THERE WAS LARGE SCALE CHEATING & IRREGULARITIES IN THE 2020 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION, WHICH WOULD BE A GOOD THING FOR THEM, & FOR AMERICA, THE CASE AGAINST THEM, WHICH SHOULD NOT HAVE EXISTED AT ALL, WOULD BE GREATLY WEAKENED. BACK UP THOSE PATRIOTS AT FOX INSTEAD OF THROWING THEM UNDER THE BUS - & THEY ARE RIGHT! THERE IS SOOO MUCH PROOF, LIKE MASS BALLOT STUFFING CAUGHT ON GOVERNMENT CAMERAS, FBI COLLUDING WITH TWITTER & FACEBOOK, STATE LEGISLATURES NOT USED, etc. he wrote.

Dominion Voting Systems high-profile $1.6bn defamation trial against Fox News was due to begin on Monday but was suddenly delayed on Sunday night.

Multiple reports have stated that Fox News is pushing to settle the case before it goes to trial with lawyers for the two sides expected to meet on Monday.

The media empire has been defending the company and its Fox Corporation parent from allegations that they defamed the voting machine company by spreading false claims that its systems manipulated the 2020 presidential elections outcome to ensure Donald Trumps loss.

Court filings leading up to the trial stitched together a much-larger picture of the Fox organisation, its decision making, and its concerns over declining viewership with competition from other right-wing networks that indulged the former presidents conspiracy theories. Fox News has argued it had an obligation to cover newsworthy allegations and that the lawsuit poses a threat to press freedoms.

Donald Trump joins chorus of Republicans baselessly attacking trans people

Monday 17 April 2023 12:00 , Josh Marcus

In his remarks to a National Rifle Association (NRA) event, Donald Trump vowed to use the full force of the federal government to investigate gender-affirming care for transgender Americans, a statement that elevates his anti-trans rhetoric and Republican threats to LGBT+ people ahead of 2024 elections.

There have been more than 155 mass shootings and more than 12,000 gun-related deaths in 2023, which the GOP presidential candidate blamed on a mental health problem and a spiritual problem in his remarks in Indiana on 14 April.

He said he would direct the US Food and Drug Administration to study the effects of gender-affirming healthcare and so-called trans ideology on mental health and violence, should he be elected, amplifying a baseless and dangerous narrative that transgender people are responsible for violent attacks across the country.

I think most of us already know the answer, he added.

Alex Woodward has the story.

Trump threatens trans healthcare in NRA speech
Former President Trump on Tuesday posted images to his Instagram account for the first time since Jan. 5, 2021, a day before the riot at the U.S. Capitol.

I am pleased to inform you that, due to the great success of my previously launched DIGITAL TRADING CARDS, we are doing it again, SERIES 2, AVAILABLE RIGHT NOW, Trump wrote below an image of himself appearing to hold the Liberty Bell. He then posted a second image of himself dressed in superhero garb.

Before the two new images touting his digital trading cards, the previous post on Trumps account is a graphic inviting followers to join President Donald J. Trump at the Save America March on Jan. 6, 2021, at The Ellipse in front of the White House.

On the second digital trading card image, Trump wrote that he hopes everyone notices that hes leaving the price of the Trading Cards the same as last time, even though they are selling for MANY TIMES MORE.

Back in December, when Trumps 2024 campaign was largely inactive, the former president teased a major announcement that turned out to be the release of his digital trading card collection. The cards, which Trump described at the time as featuring amazing ART of my Life & Career! were on sale for $99 each and sold out within a day.

The Series 2 NFTs are now selling for the same. The cards website linked in Trumps Instagram bio suggests in all-caps that supporters buy 47 digital trading cards and you get a ticket to a dinner with the president at Mar-a-Lago, Trumps residence in Florida.

I could have raised the price MUCH HIGHER, & I believe it still would have sold well, with a lot more money coming to me, but I didnt choose to do so, he wrote. In all-caps, the former president added, I will be given no nice guy credit?

The site also says the money made from the cards wont go to Trumps 2024 campaign, are not political and have nothing to do with any political campaign.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Donald Trump isn't quiet about much.

But after Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a six-week abortion ban, the former president has remained silent on the subject.

He didnt chide DeSantis for signing the bill late Thursday. Nor did he needle him for sidestepping the issue at two events Friday, one of them at the conservative Liberty University.

Trumps aides have criticized DeSantis from both sides on abortion. But it remains a mystery where Trump, a Florida resident, stands on the question of whether abortion should be illegal at six weeks.

There is a silence because theres a recognition that this is probably not going to be great for a general election, Republican strategist David Urban, a former Trump adviser who is neutral in the 2024 primary campaign, said of DeSantis and Trumps avoiding the topic.

Trumps uncharacteristic tiptoeing underscores the political risk of supporting a six-week abortion ban. While many conservative voters who make up the GOP's base embrace the new Florida law, Republicans overall have struggled to present a unified position on abortion since the Supreme Court last year overturned Roe v. Wade and a half-century of precedent on reproductive rights. After Republicans suffered losses in the November midterms they were supposed to dominate, Trump himself blamed abortion politics.

On Monday, a Trump adviser said the six-week abortion ban has been a topic of internal discussion ever since it became clear the law was about to be enacted.

Aides, however, say they dont want to get ahead of Trump on the subject, with a spokesman saying, He will address it if he is asked about it.

Trump has generally avoided the topic of abortion since he launched his 2024 campaign.

However, the issue could come up Saturday. Trump is scheduled to call in to Iowas Faith & Freedom Coalition spring event and take questions, said the groups president Steve Scheffler, who's also an Iowa Republican National committeeman.

Story continues

A pro-DeSantis super PAC has seized on Trumps silence.

Governor DeSantis has an incredible record of success in protecting the unborn and children with heartbeats from the brutality of abortion, said Erin Perrine, spokeswoman for the Never Back Down super PAC, told NBC News in a statement Monday. Donald Trumps latest contribution to the pro-life movement has been blaming pro-life voters for 2022 midterm losses instead of his endorsements burying candidates that should have won.

The criticism of Trump from allies of DeSantis, who so far isn't publicly discussing the bill he signed, underscores the hot-potato nature of the issue among Republicans.

Trumps team is more comfortable addressing abortion in terms of what he did as president  specifically setting the table for states to restrict abortion  than how he views the new law in his home state.

The thing weve been pointing to is he has a pretty flawless record when it comes to pro-life and protecting life, not the least of which is the appointment of Supreme Court justices before Roe v. Wade was overturned, said Steven Cheung, a Trump spokesman. In terms of the six weeks, I dont want to get ahead of what hell say about that or what hell propose. I think hell lay out a pretty clear agenda for that.

Mike Noble, an independent pollster who regularly surveys the Southwest, including the battleground state of Arizona, said its no surprise Trump is staying mum on the topic for as long as he can.

Trump thinks the Dobbs ruling hurt GOPers last November, Noble said. He does not want the six-week issue used against him in a general election.

Noble pointed to national polling that shows broad support for some form of legal abortion and noted that a six-week ban would not sit well with women, swing voters and independents, particularly in battleground states. The silence from DeSantis and Trump is indicative of the larger quandary facing Republicans.

Its the big conundrum that the GOP is currently facing, Noble said. They still dont really have an answer for it. Thats why Democrats keep teeing off on this issue. The GOP is fractured.

The Florida law bans abortions at six weeks but creates exemptions for rape and incest up to 15 weeks into pregnancy.

Some strategists say the abortion debate has long been challenging for Trump.

Brad Todd, a GOP strategist, said Trumps relationship with anti-abortion activists has been in the nature of an alliance more than in a shared cause since he burst onto the political scene in 2015.

This has never been Trumps favorite issue, Todd said.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Former president Donald Trump said that if he returns to the White House in 2025, he will mandate that federal employes take a civil service test and workers who do not pass would be fired.

The former president made the remarks in a video released on Friday.

I will require every federal employee to pass a new civil service test, demonstrating an understanding our constutitional limited government, he said.

Mr Trump said that the test would include command of due proceess rights, equal protection, free speech, religious liberty and Fourth Amendment to the Constitutions protection against unreasonable search and seizure, which led him to mention the FBI searching his Mar-a-Lago estate in August for classified documents.

We will put unelected bureaucrats back in their place, librate the US economy and attract millions of jobs and trillions of dollars to our shores, he said.

Mr Trump has previously called on putting in new requirements for federal employees. In March of last year, he called on passing laws that would make every employee who works under the executive branch fireable by the president.

We will pass critical reforms making every executive branch employee fireable by the president of the United States, he said at the time. The deep state must and will be brought to heel. Its already happening.

Throughout his presidency, Mr Trump regularly went after various executive branch officials, such as when he fired FBI director James Comey and when he regularly attacked his attorney general Jeff Sessions.

Mr Trump was recently indicted and arraigned in Manhattan on 34 charges related to alleged hush money payments to adult film star Stormy Daniels. He also faces a federal investigation led by Special Counsel Jack Smith, whom Attorney General Merrick Garland appointed, to investigate both his keeping of classified documents and his attempts to overturn the 2020 presidential election results, including his actions on January 6.
Tunisian authorities closed the offices of Islamist-inspired opposition party Ennahdha on Tuesday, a senior party official and local media said, a day after arresting its leader Rached Ghannouchi.

Ennahdha was the largest party in Tunisia's parliament before President Kais Saied dissolved the chamber in July 2021.

The party's shutdown sparked renewed concern from Europe and former colonial power France.

"A police unit showed up at the party's main headquarters (in Tunis) and ordered everyone there to leave before closing it," Riadh Chaibi said.

"The police also closed the other offices of the party elsewhere in the country and prohibited any meeting in these premises," the party official told AFP.

The move came after Ghannouchi, 81, was arrested the previous evening at his home in the capital Tunis.

He was the latest in a string of opposition figures held.

Since early February, authorities in the North African country have arrested more than 20 political opponents and personalities.

Saied, 65, claims those detained were "terrorists" involved in a "conspiracy against state security".

Speaking at a ceremony on Tuesday, Saied called on the judiciary -- of which he seized control last year -- to "fulfil its role in this phase the country is going through".

"We are waging a merciless war against those who seek to undermine the state and its institutions," the president said without mentioning opposition parties or figures by name.

Ennahdha vice-president Mondher Lounissi said late Monday that Ghannouchi had been taken to a police barracks for questioning and his lawyers had not been allowed to attend.

The arrest came after remarks by Ghannouchi warning that eradicating different viewpoints such as the left or political Islam, from which his party originated, might lead to a "civil war".

A source at the interior ministry quoted by Tunisian media confirmed that the arrest was linked to these statements.

Ghannouchi was the speaker of Tunisia's parliament before Saied dissolved it.

Story continues

The president went on to seize wide-reaching powers through a series of moves. Opponents have dubbed his actions a "coup" and a return to autocratic rule in the only democracy to emerge from the Arab Spring uprisings in the region more than a decade ago.

After his dramatic power grab, Saied has ruled by decree, and last year rammed through a constitution that gave his office unlimited powers and neutered parliament.

The country is also heavily indebted and facing high inflation and unemployment, leading some of its citizens to try fleeing to Europe.

Tunisia has been negotiating for several months with the International Monetary Fund for a loan worth nearly $2 billion, but discussions appear to have stalled.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned in March that Tunisia urgently needs to reach a deal with the IMF, adding to dire European Union warnings about the country's future.

According to an interior ministry order reported by Tunisian media, meetings at the offices of Ennahdha and the main opposition alliance, the National Salvation Front (FSN), were banned as of Tuesday by force of the ongoing state of emergency.

Ennahda is a component of the FSN.

- EU expresses 'great concern' -

The European Union expressed "great concern" over Ghannouchi's arrest and the closure of Ennahdha's offices.

In a statement, it recalled the "importance of respect for the rights of the defence as well as the right to a fair trial".

The 27-nation bloc also raised the "fundamental principle of political pluralism", saying these elements were "essential for any democracy and form the basis of the European Union's partnership with Tunisia".

France, Tunisia's former colonial ruler, denounced "a worrying wave of arrests" and implored Tunis to ensure suspects are given due process.

Human rights groups have criticised the arrests.

"The arrest of the leader of the most important political party in the country... marks a new phase in the crisis," FSN head Ahmed Nejib Chebbi told AFP late Monday.

"This is blind revenge against opponents," he added.

On Tuesday, Chebbi said police had blocked a planned news conference to respond to Ghannouchi's arrest, which followed his February court appearance on terror-related charges.

In November he was also in court over allegations his party had helped jihadists travel to Iraq and Syria. Before that, he was interrogated over alleged money laundering.

Ghannouchi was exiled for more than two decades under late dictator Zine El Abidine Ali, but returned following the country's 2011 revolt to become a dominant figure in Tunisian politics.

ayj/ezz/bfi/dv/hkb/ami/it
TUNIS (Reuters) - Tunisian authorities on Tuesday banned meetings at all offices of the opposition Ennahda Islamist party and police closed the headquarters of the Salvation Front main opposition coalition, party and official sources said.

Ennahda fears the move will pave the way for banning the party and comes a day after police detained Ennahda leader Rached Ghannouchi, the most prominent critic of President Kais Saied and three senior officials, the party said.

Hours after Ghannouchi's arrest, police raided the party headquarters early on Tuesday and evacuated all those present to start a search that will take days, party officials said.

A Reuters reporter said that police also prevented access to the headquarters of the Salvation Front party in the capital, where a press conference was scheduled to be held on Tuesday.

The Salvation Front is the main opposition coalition that includes Ennahda, small parties and activists. It regularly organises protests against Saied and accuses him of a coup. Most of its leaders are in prison on suspicion of conspiracy.

Sources said that there was a decision to ban meetings at Ennahda headquarters throughout the country.

For decades, Ennahda was banned, and most of its leaders, including Ghannouchi, were in exile. After a 2011 revolution that brought democracy, the party became a major player and took part in successive governments.

"It seems to be an attempt to ban the Ennahda and hit opposition", Riadh Chaibi the senior official in Ennahda told Reuters.

Police have this year detained leading political figures who accuse Saied of a coup for his moves to close the elected parliament in 2021 and move to rule by decree before rewriting the constitution.

An interior ministry official said Ghannouchi had been brought in for questioning and his house searched on the orders of the public prosecutor investigating "inciting statements".

Ghannouchi said in an opposition meeting on Saturday, "Tunisia without Ennahda, without political Islam, without the left, or any other component, is a project for civil war."

(Reporting by Tarek Amara; Editing by Andrew Heavens)
U.S. Rep. Mike Turner and members of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence will visit Wright Patterson Air Force Base this week.

Turner, who serves as chairman of the intelligence committee, will host members at WPAFB Thursday and Friday including the Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall, according to a spokesperson for Turners office.

The bipartisan visit will give the intelligence committee a chance to take a look at the work being done at WPAFB, including at the National Air and Space Intelligence Center.

>> Southwest Airlines flights delayed after technical issue briefly grounds flights nationwide

The center is a field operating agency that reports directly to the deputy chief of staff for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and cyber effects operations, according to the bases website.

News Center 7 reached out to Turner for comment:

By bringing the majority of the House Intelligence Committee, including Ranking Member Jim Himes, to Dayton, those of us charged with oversight and policy-making for the Intelligence Community will see firsthand the work of Wright-Patterson missions to understand what are adversaries are doing. With deep-dive briefings from our nations intelligence leaders and mission briefings at NASIC and NSIC, the members of the House Intelligence Committee will see Wright-Patt as not just a user of intelligence, but as a generator of intelligence.

The group is scheduled to discuss national security issues Friday

Wright-Patterson Air Force Base is located in Greene and Montgomery counties and is the Dayton regions largest employer.
















Posts calling out Beef star David Choe and sharing the 2014 podcast clip in which he detailed self-proclaimed rapey behavior have been taken down from Twitter since criticism renewed this month.

The tweets included clips from a 2014 episode of his now-defunct podcast, DVDASA, and were removed from Twitter on Sunday after they were labeled with a report from the copyright holder notice. The clips included Choes telling a graphic story about a masseuse that has been criticized as describing rape and sexual assault. He later asserted that the story was a fabrication.

An email obtained by NBC News, sent from Twitter and addressed to Meecham Whitson Meriweather  one of two social media users whose tweets were removed  listed Choe as the copyright holder and party who had requested the takedown. In the request, included in the email, Choe wrote that the clips had been shared without our consent.

We would like to have these videos removed immediately, said the request, which specifically cited tweets from Meriweather and fellow Twitter user Aura Bogado.

Neither Twitter nor Choe responded to requests for comment. After the controversial podcast in 2014, Choe denied the story, saying in a statement that the podcast is a complete extension of my art.

I never thought Id wake up one late afternoon and hear myself called a rapist. It sucks. Especially because I am not one. I am not a rapist. I hate rapists, he wrote in the 2014 statement. Multiple news outlets at the time reported on his response, which was posted on the podcasts now-defunct website.

The Twitter email, which also listed the David Young Choe Foundation as Choes company, informed Meriweather that his tweet had been taken down because of a DMCA takedown notice, a reference to the Digital Millennium Copyright Act, which protects copyright holders from online theft. However, several Twitter users said the tweets removal was an attempt by Choe to scrub the internet of his past.

Story continues

Meriweather, a New York City-based culture writer, said he had been following Beef since it was released April 6. He saw the clip when it was first posted by Bogado, a senior reporter at the Center for Investigative Reporting.

Meriweather wrote in the now-removed tweet that the woman who was in the room during the episode, Asa Akira, called Choe out several times, telling him the behavior he described was rape, allegedly.

Meriweather said he was disappointed in the handling of the controversy, adding that the tweets removal is an example of silencing those condemning problematic behavior.

Its just so strange to me, he said. We are no longer believing our eyes and our ears when its right in front of us.

Since the shows release, many have questioned its decision to cast Choe. Choe previously said on The Joe Rogan Experience podcast that co-stars Steven Yeun and Ali Wong had presented him with the opportunity to be in the series, which marked his first major foray into acting.

Waiting to hear why @aliwong and @steveyeun made a decision to give Choe this platform, Bogado wrote. Silence really speaks volumes.

Neither Yeun nor Wong responded to requests for comment. And as of Monday, Wongs Twitter account had been set to private. Neither Netflix nor A24, the studio that produced the series, responded, either. Bogado also did not respond to a request for comment.

Choes comments have been the subject of criticism in the past, as well. In 2017, a mural he painted in Manhattan was vandalized. And among the messages tagged on it was the word rapist. Choe apologized for the remarks in a statement on Instagram, writing that he has ZERO history of sexual assault.

In a 2014 episode of [DVDASA] I relayed a story simply for shock value that made it seem as if I had sexually violated a woman. Though I said those words, I did not commit those actions. It did not happen, he said. I am deeply sorry for any hurt Ive brought to anyone through my past words.

Meriweather said he hopes the show will act, but he also acknowledged that there is a layered conversation to be had.

I think theres really only one way to go about it  which is to take accountability and then move forward without him, Meriweather said. The thing is that everyone knew. It was complicity. How do you really move forward with that when you are part of the problem?

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
A one-year-old child who had been transported to a local hospital with multiple severe injuries died four days later, leading to the arrest of two suspects, Tracorvis Levon Strickland and Cornelia Padreka Roberts, on charges of murder and aggravated manslaughter.

On Sunday, April 9, 2023, officers from the Jacksonville Sheriffs Office were called to assist the Florida Department of Children and Families in an investigation at a local hospital.

The investigation was related to a one-year-old child who had been transported to the hospital with multiple severe injuries. The Special Assault Unit detectives were also called to conduct their preliminary investigation.

According to JSO, the next day, as a result of the severity of the childs injuries identified by medical personnel, members of JSOs Homicide Unit were called in to conduct a joint investigation with the original SAU detectives.

Unfortunately, four days after being transported to the hospital, the victim succumbed to the injuries and was pronounced dead by medical staff.

During the investigation, detectives reviewed the available evidence and conducted interviews with those who potentially had access to the child.

As a result of their investigative efforts, 39-year-old Tracorvis Levon Strickland was identified as the suspect in the death of the child. Detectives obtained an arrest warrant for Strickland, and on Saturday, April 15, 2023, he was located and arrested for Murder and Aggravated Child Abuse.

Further investigation led to the arrest of a second suspect, 21-year-old Cornelia Padreka Roberts. After an interview, Roberts was arrested for Aggravated Manslaughter and transported to the Pretrial Detention Facility.

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Two-thirds of respondents said in a new CBS News/You Gov poll that Congress shouldnt interfere with recent legal investigations involving former President Trump.

The new poll, published Monday, found that 67 percent of respondents said that GOP lawmakers shouldnt interfere with the investigations involving former President Trump, while 33 percent of respondents said that GOP lawmakers should make an effort to stop law enforcement investigations into Trump.

There was a stark divide along party lines. Nearly six in 10 Republican respondents (56 percent) said that GOP lawmakers should interfere with law enforcement investigations into Trump, compared to 21 percent of Democrats and 21 percent of Independents.

Nearly eight in 10 Democrat respondents (79 percent) said that the legal investigations into Trump should run their course, compared to 73 percent of Independents and 44 percent of Republicans, according to the poll.

The poll comes as former President Trump, who announced his third presidential campaign at his Mar-a-Lago estate last November, became the first-ever current or former U.S. president criminally charged after being indicted in New York City earlier this month.

Trump was charged in connection with a six-figure payment that his former lawyer, Michael Cohen, paid to adult film star Stormy Daniels ahead of the 2016 election to silence her allegations that the two had an affair, which Trump denies.

Trump, who is facing 34 felony counts of falsifying business records in Manhattan, has pleaded not guilty to all counts against him during his arraignment.

In response to Trumps indictment, the GOP-led House Judiciary Committee held a meeting on Monday that focused on violent crime in New York City, as the House GOP expressed their displeasure with Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg (D) after a grand jury he enlisted indicted the former president.

The CBS News/You Gov poll was conducted from April 12 to April 14 with a total of 2,065 respondents participating in the survey. The polls margin of error was 3.2 percentage points.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Tyre Nichols family plans to sue the city of Memphis, the Memphis Police Department and individual police officers over the January traffic stop that resulted in the 29-year-olds death, the familys attorneys announced on Tuesday.

Renowned civil rights attorney Ben Crump, as well as attorney Antonio Romanucci and local counsel and retired Judge Earnestine Hunt Dorse, plan to file the civil suit on Wednesday.

The attorneys for the Nichols family will also be suing Memphis police for international infliction of emotional distress for allegedly lying to Nichols mother, according to Tuesdays press release.

Nichols died in January after being brutally beaten by Memphis police officers during a traffic stop. The ultimately fatal encounter was captured on body camera and surveillance footage, which sparked national outrage after it was released to the public later that month.

Five Memphis police officers were fired and charged with second-degree murder for their role in Nichols death  but all pleaded not guilty in their first court appearance in February.

Two other officers were also terminated, and one retired before he was fired. Three members of the Memphis Fire Department were fired, and one was suspended, for failing to provide Nichols with adequate care after the beating.

The Department of Justice is also conducting an independent review of the incident.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
KARUIZAWA, Japan (Reuters) - The United States is able to move forward with its relationship with China following President Joe Biden's meeting with leader Xi Jinping last year, but that requires Beijing to make clear its own intentions, Washington's top diplomat said on Tuesday.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken made the comment at a news conference at the conclusion of the Group of Seven (G7) meeting of rich democracies in Japan's town of Karuizawa.

Biden met Xi in Indonesia in November for a three-hour meeting aimed at preventing strained ties between the two nations from spilling into a new Cold War.

China's foreign ministry urged the U.S. to stop claiming to put "guardrails" on both countries' relations.

"The United States has formulated and implemented incorrect policies towards China based on its incorrect understanding of China," ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin told a regular briefing, blaming this for the current tense state of ties.

(Reporting by Humeyra Pamuk; Additional reporting by Laurie Chen and Liz Lee in Beijing; Editing by Kim Coghill and Clarence Fernandez)
Washington  The number of migrants apprehended by U.S. immigration authorities after crossing the Mexican border without authorization increased by 25% in March as the Biden administration prepares for a major policy shift next month.

U.S. Border Patrol agents recorded over 162,000 apprehensions of migrants in between official ports of entry last month, a jump from the 130,000 apprehensions reported in February, federal statistics released Monday show.

The increase in migration follows a historical pattern of border crossings spiking in the spring. Despite the uptick, the number of migrant apprehensions last month was lower than the tallies recorded in March 2021 and March 2022.

Still, unlawful migration to the U.S. southern border continues to be at historically high levels, and concerns of a broader influx of illegal crossings have intensified as U.S. officials prepare to discontinue a rule known as Title 42 that has allowed them to summarily expel hundreds of thousands of migrants during the coronavirus pandemic.

Absent any major policy pivot, the Department of Homeland Security is preparing for up to 13,000 migrants to cross the southern border per day, about 400,000 each month, once Title 42 lifts in early May, according to internal projections. The Trump-era order is set to lapse once the national COVID-19 public health emergency expires on May 11.

To address the potential spike in migration, the Biden administration is hoping to finalize a regulation on or before May 11 that would disqualify migrants from asylum if they enter the U.S. illegally after failing to ask for protection in a country other than the one they fled that they traversed to reach American soil. The rule is likely to be challenged in court by migrant advocates, who have denounced it as a Trump-like effort to gut U.S. asylum laws.

Venezuelan migrants approach the U.S. Border Patrol by foot to cross the border and apply for humanitarian asylum in the United States on April 10, 2023, in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico. / Credit: David Peinado/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

The rise in migrant arrivals in March marks the first time that migration levels have increased significantly since President Biden announced a series of new measures earlier this year to discourage illegal border crossings and encourage migrants to wait for a chance to enter the U.S. legally.

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In January, the Biden administration convinced Mexico to accept additional expelled migrants, expanding Title 42 to expel Cubans, Haitians and Nicaraguans who attempted to enter the country unlawfully. Previously, only migrants from Mexico, northern Central America and Venezuela could be expelled to Mexico.

At the same time, the administration started allowing migrants in Mexico to apply for a chance to enter the U.S. at a border port of entry through a mobile app known as CBP One. It also committed to admitting up to 30,000 migrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua and Venezuela each month if Americans agreed to sponsor them.

In March, officials processed 22,865 asylum-seekers who secured appointments to enter the U.S. through the CBP One app, according to the government data published Monday. Another 27,783 migrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua and Venezuela flew to the U.S. under the sponsorship program.

The increase in border apprehensions last month largely stemmed from an increase in crossings among migrants from Mexico, Colombia and Peru. The uptick occurred across demographics, with officials recording higher levels of apprehensions of single adults, families and unaccompanied children than in February.

Apprehensions of Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans and Venezuelans remained very low compared to the massive number of border crossings among migrants from those countries late last year. But the number of Venezuelans attempting to cross the U.S. southern border illegally increased from February.

Border Patrol has reported over one million migrant apprehensions in fiscal year 2023, with another six months still to go. The agency recorded 2.2 million apprehensions along the southern border in fiscal year 2022, a record high.

Apprehension figures don't precisely denote the number of individuals processed by U.S. border officials, since some migrants attempt to enter the country multiple times after being expelled to Mexico. Roughly a quarter of those processed in March were repeat border-crossers, according to government statistics.

Nearly 420,000, or over 40%, of the apprehensions recorded in the current fiscal year have led to migrants being expelled to Mexico or their home country under Title 42, government figures show. In March, Border Patrol carried out over 85,000 expulsions, the highest level since June 2022.

Migrants who are not expelled under Title 42 are either deported under regular immigration laws, sent to long-term detention centers or released with an opportunity to request asylum. Unaccompanied children who are not from Mexico are housed in federal shelters until U.S.-based sponsors claim them.

The unprecedented levels of migrant apprehensions recorded along the U.S.-Mexico border over the past years have coincided with a historic displacement crisis in the Western Hemisphere, where countries beset by economic and political tumult, such as Venezuela, have seen record numbers of their citizens flee north.

Nearly 250,000 migrants traversed Panama's Darien Gap in 2022 on their way to the U.S. and other destinations, an all-time high, according to official Panamanian government figures. In March alone, 38,000 migrants crossed the roadless and mountainous jungle  a 55% increase from February.

Last week, the governments in the U.S., Colombia and Panama announced a two-month operation to curb migrant smuggling in the Darien Gap, but did not disclose concrete details.

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China

Credit - Getty Images/iStock

The FBI on Monday arrested two New York residents on charges of opening and operating an off-the-books Chinese police outpost in lower Manhattan since February last year to track, intimidate, and stifle dissenters of the ruling Communist Party in China.

That was just one of three transnational repression cases the Justice Department unveiled, accusing China of a multi-front campaign to extend the reach and impacts of its authoritarian system into the United States and elsewhere around the world, according to Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General David Newman. Charges were also filed against 34 officials under Chinas Ministry of Public Security (MPS) for allegedly harassing Chinese nationals in New York using fake social media profiles. Another nine individuals believed to be based in China were added to a previous complaint for allegedly conspiring to commit interstate harassment by utilizing a U.S. telecommunications company to target a New York-based CCP dissident.

The trio of cases shows the extent to which China monitors and attempts to stamp out critics, even those outside its borders. The Justice Departments charges announced Monday mark the first legal proceedings in the world taken against such overseas Chinese outposts, as the U.S. government appears increasingly willing to confront China on its dubious global surveillance apparatus and persistent crackdowns on peoples freedoms.

Spanish civil rights group Safeguard Defenders published a report last year on the existence of more than 100 overseas Chinese police stations sanctioned by the CCP to exert control and influence over its nationals abroad. Safeguard Defenders outlined how these outposts have been used for the sinister purpose of evading international procedures in pursuit of those that Beijing considers to be fugitives. In a press briefing Tuesday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin accused the U.S. of slanders and smears and described the charges as political manipulation. China has previously claimed the stations are in fact just service centers to offer assistance to the countrys diaspora. Wang added on Tuesday: The transnational repression is an allegation that best matches the U.S.s own practices.

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Laura Harth, campaign director for Safeguard Defenders, tells TIME that Chinas outposts are certainly nefarious. Its illegal to start with, but even if it wasnt, I mean, its not even as innocent as it looks as far as they report it to be, she says.

U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York Breon Peace (second from left) speaks at a Justice Dept. news conference announcing arrests and charges against multiple individuals alleged to be working illegally in connection with the Chinese government, in New York City on April 17, 2023. Angela WeissAFP/Getty Images

Id like to say how proud I am, said Breon Peace, Brooklyns top attorney, when announcing the actions taken by the U.S. government, as we are the first law enforcement partners in the world to make arrests in connection with the Chinese governments overseas police stations.

But any celebrations on Americas part would be premature, suggests Harth, who says that the Chinese outposts like the one in New York are merely the tip of the iceberg, and that closing a single station down is unlikely to stop the networks of individuals and organizations underneath it that are engaged in both these kinds of interference and repressive activities. Harth hopes that this will spur on other countries concerned over these unsanctioned Chinese offices to take action.

Heres what you need to know about the latest U.S. charges.

Who was arrested?

The U.S. Attorneys Office in the Eastern District of New York announced that two men were arrested at their homes Monday morning. Charges were filed against Lu Jianwang, 61, from the Bronx and Chen Jinping, 59, from Manhattan, each for conspiracy to act as an agent for the Chinese government and for obstructing justice by destroying evidence upon learning that the FBI was investigating them. The charges carry a maximum sentence of 5 years and 20 years in prison, respectively.

The two men, who ostensibly worked for a nonprofit established in 2013 with the stated mission to serve as a social gathering place for Fujianese people, allegedly opened an undeclared secret police station in lower Manhattan in early 2022 on behalf of the MPS branch in Fuzhou, Fujian province in Chinas east.

Lu, who went by the name Harry, had a longstanding relationship of trust with the Chinese government, according to the complaint. When President Xi Jinping flew to the U.S. in 2015, Lu took part in counterprotests against demonstrators critical of the Chinese leader. The complaint says Lu also helped Chinese authorities locate multiple persons of interest in the U.S., including a pro-democracy activist who claims to have been harassed by proxies for the Chinese government.

Little information is available about Chen, but the complaint said he was secretary general of the nonprofit, and he admitted to working with the Fujian police through the overseas office, though he claimed his work had only to do with drivers license applications and renewals. According to the New York Times, a court-appointed lawyer for Chen said at his bail hearing that he worked as a home health aide and had no property to use as collateral. Both men were released on bail after appearing before a judge on Monday afternoon.

What do we know about the alleged secret police station?

The complaint said the hidden police stationlocated at the office of Lu and Chens nonprofit at 107 East Broadway, which is within New Yorks Chinatownwas opened on Feb. 15, 2022, without diplomatic approval from the U.S. The office was closed in the fall of 2022 amid scrutiny over the legality of its operations.

Investigation outlined in the complaint revealed that Lu flew to Fuzhou in the preceding January for the launch of a police initiative to establish overseas stations, and he seemingly accepted the task, even posing for a picture with a sign that read Fuzhou Public Security Bureau, Overseas 110 Report to Police Service Station.

Images included in the complaint depicting the alleged undeclared Chinese office in Manhattan, left, and Lu Jianwang posing with a Chinese police officer and a sign seemingly acknowledging the "overseas station." United States District Court Eastern District of New York

FBI searched the New York outpost in October, where they found a Fuzhou Police Overseas Service Station banner and equipment related to drivers license renewals. The FBI also seized and accessed the phones of Lu and Chen, as well as other officers of the outpost. They found that exchanges with police officials in Fuzhou had been deleted from their social messaging apps. Lu and Chen later admitted to the FBI that they deleted the conversations.

An open-source video, the complaint says, also revealed that officials from the Chinese consulate in New York visited the outposts premises at least once in April 2022.

What are the other cases about?

The other two complaints unsealed on Monday involve charges against more people allegedly involved in Chinas expansive campaign of transnational repression, though none have yet been arrested as most of them are believed to be on Chinese soil.

In one case, which is being handled by the U.S. Attorneys National Security and Cybercrime Section, prosecutors charged 34 named MPS officers with operating troll farms to attack Chinese dissidents and spread disinformation and propaganda. The officers are alleged to be part of an elite Chinese national police task force called the 912 Special Project Working Group, which used fake profiles on social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter to promote the approved narratives of the Chinese government and discredit anti-China messaging, and to create and amplify messages with the purpose of aggravating political and social tensions in democratic countries.

The other case expands charges against Jin Xinjiang, also known as Julien Jin, a former China-based executive at the videoconferencing company Zoom. The U.S. Justice Department charged Jin in 2020 for disrupting and censoring commemorations that May and June of the 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre on the platform. He has been wanted by the FBI since November 2020.

The amended complaint alleges that Jin worked directly with and took orders from the Chinese government and police to target U.S.-based dissidents since 2018, and it extends the charges to one other civilian and eight Chinese officials who worked with Jin on the operations.
A U.S. diplomatic convoy in Sudan was fired on in a reckless and irresponsible attack amid the African nations ongoing violence, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Tuesday.

None of the Americans were injured, he told reporters while speaking in Japan, emphasizing that the convoy was fired upon despite bearing diplomatic plates and a U.S. flag.

We have deep concerns, of course, about the overall security environment as it affects civilians, as it affects diplomats, as it affects aid workers, he said.

During a call Tuesday morning, Blinken told Gen. Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, who leads Sudans military, and Gen. Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, the commander of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, that the attack was totally unacceptable.

He also underscored the need for a ceasefire, and, following the call, the RSF issued a temporary ceasefire to open safe paths for the passage of civilians, the group wrote in a tweet .

While the incident is under investigation, initial reports show that the RSF was responsible for the attack, the secretary of state said.

When asked whether Americans in Sudan were safe, National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby told reporters Monday that all U.S. government personnel are accounted for and sheltering in place, refusing to provide further details.

We are staying in close touch with them right now, and we expect those communications to continue, Kirby said. But I dont want to get ahead of where we are.

Blinken said hes in contact with Americans on the ground in Sudan, refusing to elaborate other than saying that the U.S. will continue to take every responsible measure to make sure that our people are safe and secure.

The U.S. has also been in close coordination with counterparts from the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom to deal with the deepening violence in Sudan, he said. The ultimate goal is to put Sudan back on the track of talks, negotiations, again, to restore civilian-led government.

Alex Ward contributed to this report.
On Tuesday, the U.S. officially marks Holocaust Remembrance Day to memorialize the 6 million Jews murdered by Adolf Hitlers Nazi Germany between 1933 and 1945, and to celebrate those who survived the persecution.

The day is part of a weeklong national Days of Remembrance commemoration established by Congress that began on Sunday. This year's events come as antisemitic incidents continue to rise in the U.S. and as the genocide becomes ever more distant for young Americans.

This years national ceremony, organized by the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C., will be held Thursday at the U.S. Capitol. The commemoration will mark the first time the event will be held at the Capitol since before the coronavirus pandemic.

As we lead the nation in remembering the six million Jews who were murdered, honoring the survivors, paying tribute to the rescuers and celebrating the liberators, we are reminded of the power of their history to inspire people everywhere to confront antisemitism, all forms of group-targeted hate and genocide, the museum said on its website.

Why do we mark Holocaust Remembrance Day?

In addition to Thursdays event at the Capitol, organizations such as Seattles Henry Friedman Holocaust Center for Humanity and the Ackerman Center for Holocaust Studies at the University of Texas at Dallas have events scheduled throughout the week. Holocaust survivors will share their stories, and candle-lighting ceremonies will honor the victims.

Two thirds of Europes Jewish population was systematically eliminated by Hitlers Nazi Germany, along with others deemed politically, racially or socially unfit.

But while the genocide was engineered by the Nazis, its important to remember it was further enabled by people who follow orders without question, bystanders who watch and do nothing, ordinary men and women simply going with the flow, Chris Leighton, of the Institute for Christian and Jewish Studies in Why We Remember, says in an informational video posted on the museums website.

Story continues

Why is Holocaust Remembrance Day held this week?

Globally, the day is commemorated on Jan. 27, the date designated by the U.N. General Assembly in 2005 to commemorate the day in 1945 that the Red Army liberated the concentration camp in Auschwitz.

Nations around the world also hold their own commemorations, some also on Jan. 27 and others on other dates. In the U.S., the commemoration aligns with Israels Yom Hashoah, a solemn national holiday generally marked on the 27th day of Nisan, the first month of the ecclesiastical year.

The date also roughly coincides with the anniversary April 19 of the 1943 Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, in which 700 Jewish insurgents resisted German troops and police who had swarmed the largest Jewish ghetto in German-occupied Europe to deport Jewish inhabitants. The revolt, the first major urban rebellion against the Nazi occupation, was crushed four weeks later.

Why is the occasion important?

Such commemorations are playing against a backdrop of rising antisemitism around the world. According to the Anti-Defamation League, antisemitic incidents in the U.S. rose to an all-time high of 3,697 in 2022, an increase of 36% over the previous year.

Survey results released in 2018 showed nearly a third of Americans and more than 4 in 10 millennials mistakenly thought 2 million or fewer Jewish people died during the Holocaust  and while more than half of the 6 million Jews killed were from Poland, where the Auschwitz concentration camp was located, two-thirds of millennials and 41% of Americans overall were unable to identify it.

Dig deeper:

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Holocaust Remembrance Day: U.S. tributes honor victims, survivors
The UK government on Tuesday issued its strongest appeal yet to unionists in Northern Ireland to restore power-sharing government to the region, where tensions have risen as a result of Brexit.

The Conservative government in London called on the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) -- its historic ally -- to embrace "real leadership" and emulate predecessors who helped forge Northern Ireland's 1998 peace accord.

The DUP, which supports Northern Ireland remaining part of the UK, has been boycotting the divided territory's government at Stormont over post-Brexit trading arrangements agreed with the European Union.

But ahead of fresh local elections next month, it has been coming under sustained pressure from London, Dublin, Brussels and Washington, peaking in a visit to the island last week by US President Joe Biden.

Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris delivered the UK government's sharpest rhetoric yet, in a speech to a Belfast conference marking the 25th anniversary of the 1998 Belfast/Good Friday peace agreement.

All sides in Northern Ireland want better public services, economic prosperity and a brighter future for their children, the minister told the audience at Queen's University.

"The biggest threat to Northern Ireland's place in the (UK) union is failing to deliver on these priorities," he said.

"Others who share that (pro-UK) view should put the union first, restore the devolved institutions and get on with the job of delivering for the people of Northern Ireland."

Citing the compromises forged by diehard unionists in 1998 and subsequently, Heaton-Harris added that "real leadership is about knowing when to say yes and having the courage to do so".

The three-day conference in Belfast has a high-powered cast of leaders who brokered the 1998 deal, including former UK prime minister Tony Blair, then-Irish premier Bertie Ahern and ex-president Bill Clinton.

After meeting Clinton at the conference on Monday, DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson said he had "underscored our commitment to restoring the NI Assembly on a basis that unionists as well as nationalists can support".

Story continues

"Quick fixes without solid foundations will do a disservice to those trying to make the institutions work," Donaldson said.

But speaking after Heaton-Harris, Ireland's foreign minister Micheal Martin said London and Brussels had worked hard to adopt a recent reform of the post-Brexit trading arrangement to try to placate the DUP.

All leaders in Northern Ireland had the "responsibility to accept democratic outcomes", Martin said, after the DUP lost elections last year for the first time to the Irish nationalist party Sinn Fein.

"But I urge all elected representatives to take their seats in the Assembly and the Executive, and get to work on the questions of everyday life that matter to the people of Northern Ireland," he added.

jit/phz/ri
The UK government on Tuesday issued its strongest appeal yet to unionists in Northern Ireland to restore the region's power-sharing government, after Brexit disrupted a delicate political balance.

The Conservative government called on the pro-UK Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) to embrace "real leadership" and emulate predecessors who forged Northern Ireland's 1998 peace accord, which ended three decades of violence against British rule.

The DUP has been boycotting the divided territory's government at Stormont over post-Brexit trading arrangements agreed with the European Union, despite itself supporting the UK's split from the EU.

The party has been under sustained pressure from London, Dublin, Brussels and Washington, peaking in a visit to the island last week by US President Joe Biden.

Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris delivered the UK government's sharpest rhetoric yet, in a speech to a conference marking the 25th anniversary of the 1998 Belfast/Good Friday peace agreement.

Everyone in Northern Ireland wants better public services, economic prosperity and a brighter future for their children, the minister told the audience at Queen's University in Belfast.

"The biggest threat to Northern Ireland's place in the (UK) union is failing to deliver on these priorities," he said.

"Others who share that (pro-UK) view should put the union first, restore the devolved institutions and get on with the job of delivering for the people of Northern Ireland."

Citing the compromises forged by diehard unionists in 1998 and subsequently, Heaton-Harris added that "real leadership is about knowing when to say yes and having the courage to do so".

- Reunification poll? -

The three-day conference in Belfast has a high-powered cast of leaders who brokered the 1998 deal, including former UK prime minister Tony Blair, then-Irish premier Bertie Ahern and ex-president Bill Clinton.

At the conference, EU Commission vice president Maros Sefcovic said he had consulted widely with business leaders in Northern Ireland.

Story continues

"What... I heard very clearly was, they need predictability," said Sefcovic, who led talks for the new deal with the UK, dubbed the "Windsor Framework".

"They need stability," he added, urging political leaders to learn from the "inclusivity" that resulted in the Good Friday Agreement.

The 1998 peace deal ended border checks on the island of Ireland as a condition for overcoming "The Troubles".

But Brexit upended Northern Ireland's fragile status quo by necessitating the return of a trading border between the UK and the EU.

The customs checks are happening now between Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) and Northern Ireland, to the DUP's fury.

DUP lawmaker Emma Little-Pengelly told the conference that the party's concerns were not being taken seriously enough.

"We need to build the strong (Stormont) foundations to make the institutions work. Not just this year, or the next five years, but for the next 25 years," she said.

Other Northern Irish leaders said the DUP and Conservatives only had themselves to blame for refusing to accept the inevitable consequences of Brexit.

The DUP began its boycott in February last year, before losing Stormont elections for the first time to the Irish nationalist party Sinn Fein. Local council elections are due next month.

Ireland's foreign minister Micheal Martin said London and Brussels had worked hard to clinch the Windsor Framework, in a bid to placate the DUP by diluting the border checks.

All leaders in Northern Ireland had the "responsibility to accept democratic outcomes", Martin said.

Sinn Fein's leader Mary Lou McDonald predicted that Ireland would be reunited within the next 25 years, but stressed that preparations needed to start now for a referendum on both sides of the border.

Unionists "equally need to have a stake in what can be the most incredible opportunity for this incredible island", she told the conference.

jit/giv
Ukraine and Poland have reached an agreement during talks on Tuesday on the transit of Ukrainian grain through Polish territory after Warsaw suspended it along with imposing an import ban.

Source: Deputy Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko, Minister of Economy of Ukraine, reported by European Pravda

Quote: "As a result of the negotiations, it was decided that the transit of Ukrainian goods through Poland would be unblocked on the night of Thursday to Friday [the night of 20-21 April  ed.]."

Details: Svyrydenko has stressed that Kyiv understands the situation of Polish farmers just like the Polish side understands the situation of Ukrainian farmers suffering from Russia's full-scale war against Ukraine.

"In the end, the root cause of this situation is Russian aggression. And we will do everything to prevent Russia from taking advantage of the situation," she stressed, adding that the Polish side had informed Ukraine about the technical aspects of transporting Ukrainian products through Poland.

Background: In late March, at the initiative of the Polish side, Poland, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria and Slovakia sent a joint letter to the EC demanding a response to the problems caused by the export of Ukrainian grain.

In recent days, Poland, Hungary and Slovakia have banned imports of Ukrainian agricultural products, and Romania has called for the same. Warsaw initially banned not only imports but also the transit of agricultural products from Ukraine.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
Kyrylo Budanov believes that the Russian war criminal who cut off the head of a Ukrainian prisoner will not soon become

When asked about the perpetrator of the war crime, Budanov replied, Yes... We know who he is. He declined to disclose the persons whereabouts.

Read also: Zelenskyy reacts to video of Ukrainian soldier's decapitation by Russians

Budanov pointed out that all those involved in similar incidents in the past were no longer alive, suggesting that this war criminal could face a similar fate.

He clarified that incidents of this kind of violence are isolated.

Read also: Russia released footage of Ukrainian POW execution for intimidation, Kyiv says

A video emerged on Russian Telegram channels on April 11 showing Russian-backed militants beheading a Ukrainian soldier with a knife. The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) launched an immediate investigation.

Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Malyar has asked that speculation about the identity of the victim not be made public until the official conclusion is released.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called on world leaders to respond to the atrocities committed by Russian thugs. International politicians, including UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, and Secretary-General of the Council of Europe Marija Pejcinovic-Buric, have condemned the crime.

On April 13, Ukrainian Ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets reported that the Main Intelligence Directorate had preliminary information about the identity and location of the person who executed the Ukrainian soldier in the video.

This is not the only incident of this nature to have recently occurred. On April 10, Russian social media featured images of the remains of a Ukrainian soldiers head, apparently placed on a stake in an unidentified location, possibly in Bakhmut.

According to ISW analysts, social media users have already been reminded of similar incidents involving decapitated skulls on stakes in Popasna, Luhansk Oblast, where Wagner mercenaries operated in the spring and summer of 2022.

Read also: Former Wagner commanders confess to massive war crimes, including killing children

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CNN reported on a different video that appeared on Russian Telegram channels on April 8. The footage shows the decapitated bodies of two Ukrainian soldiers lying on the ground next to a destroyed military vehicle. It was likely filmed by Russian Wagner mercenaries, and journalists believe it was filmed recently. In addition to the decapitations, their hands look to be severed. (Note: the U.S. channel does not provide a link.)

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By Anthony Boadle

BRASILIA (Reuters) -Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Tuesday condemned the violation of Ukraine's territorial integrity by Russia and again called for mediation to end the war, a peace initiative that was criticized by the Ukrainian government.

Speaking at a lunch with Romanian President Klaus Iohannis, Lula said a group of neutral nations must come together to help broker peace between Russia and Ukraine.

His comments came after he set off a storm among Western allies by stating over the weekend that they were prolonging the fighting by supplying arms to Ukraine.

A White House spokesperson accused Lula of "parroting Russian and Chinese propaganda without looking at the facts." And on Tuesday, the White House said Lula's "tone was not one of neutrality."

In Washington, a person familiar with the matter said U.S. officials have privately made clear the Biden administration's displeasure to Brazilian counterparts about Lula's criticism of the arming of Ukraine.

The White House did not immediately reply to a Reuters question on the purported contacts but late on Tuesday said in a statement that Biden's national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, had spoken with his Brazilian counterpart, Celso Amorim, about "a number of bilateral and global issues, including Russias war against Ukraine."

Earlier, Amorim had joined the war of words, calling the U.S. criticism "absurd" and insisting that Brazil did not share Russia's position.

"Brazil defends the territorial integrity of Ukraine," Amorim told Globo TV. But he added: "As long as there are no talks, the ideal peace for the Ukrainians and the Russians will not happen. There must be concessions."

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov visited Lula in Brasilia on Monday and thanked him for his peace efforts, remarking that Brazil and Russia shared views on the year-old conflict in Ukraine.

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Lula has pitched himself as a peace broker to end the war, which began when Russia invaded the neighboring country in February 2022. His proposal, based on Brazil's tradition of non-intervention and neutrality, calls for a group of nations not involved in the war to engage both Russia and Ukraine in talks.

Ukraine has criticized Lula's proposal because it treats "the victim and the aggressor" the same way, and on Tuesday invited the Brazilian president to the war-torn country to see for himself the consequences of the Russian invasion.

Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesman Oleg Nikolenko said Ukraine was following with interest Lula's efforts to find a solution to the war. But he rejected the view Lula expressed over the weekend that countries arming Kyiv were prolonging war.

The European Union has also rejected Lula's suggestion that both Ukraine and Russia are to blame for the war. EU foreign affairs spokesman Peter Stano said all aid was aimed at Ukraine's "legitimate defense."

Lula has said Russia should return territory it invaded last year, but he has suggested Ukraine might sacrifice Crimea, which was occupied by Russian forces in 2014, a suggestion rejected outright by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy.

Zelenskiy has urged world leaders to adopt his 10-point peace plan which, besides calling for the withdrawal of Russian troops and a cessation of hostilities, proposes restoring Ukraine's original borders with Russia.

(Reporting by Anthony Boadle and Lisandra Paraguassu in Brasilia; Matt Spetalnick in Washington; Additional reporting by Nandita Bose and Trevor Hunnicutt in Washington; Editing by Brad Haynes, Cynthia Osterman and Lincoln Feast.)
The EU Council approved the initiative to include Ukraine in the European roaming zone

Read also: Digital Transformation Ministry conducting survey on national roaming

We are getting closer to mobile roaming with the EU. To prevent Ukrainians from paying additional communication fees in Europe, or Europeans from paying them in Ukraine, the EU Council has approved the (European Commissions) proposal and given green light for a bilateral decision, said Ministry of Digital Transformation head, Mykhailo Fedorov.

The move will decrease costs for Ukrainians to call relatives in Europe, and operators will cease from charing 30 UAH per minute for calls. The requirement to change SIM cards during trips to Europe will also be eliminated.

Read also: ChatGPT now officially available in Ukraine, says information technology minister Fedorov

Once passed, the consumer rights of Ukrainians will be protected under EU rules.

Once approved by the European Council, the final decision must also be approved by the EU-Ukraine Trade Committee. The committee will need to adopt a joint decision to provide a mutual internal market for roaming.

Earlier, it was reported that EU regulators proposed allowing Ukrainians to use the blocs free mobile roaming zone.

Currently, EU and Ukrainian operators offer affordable or free calls between the EU and Ukraine on a voluntary basis.

Thanks to this agreement, about 4 million Ukrainian refugees in the EU have access to affordable communication.

Voluntary measures were recently extended for six months, and the new procedure now also applies to calls to fixed-line numbers in Ukraine.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Key developments on April 18:

Zelensky visits front-line Avdiivka in Donetsk Oblast

Putin reportedly visits Russian-occupied Luhansk, Kherson oblasts

Macron wants China to help bring Ukraine, Russia to negotiating table, Bloomberg reports

Former Wagner Group mercenary admitted killing POWs, says "he knows more" atrocities committed

President Volodymyr Zelensky visited the front-line city of Avdiivka, some five kilometers north of Russian-occupied Donetsk, the President's Office reported on April 18.

Zelensky met Ukrainian forces defending the city, awarding service members with state honors and thanking them for their service.

"I wish you nothing but victory  something that every Ukrainian desires and which holds great importance for all of us," Zelensky said.

Avdiivka has been a front-line city since 2014 when Russia occupied the regional capital Donetsk.

The industrial city, with a pre-war population of 32,000 people, is largely ruined. Less than 2,000 people remain in Avdiivka, according to Vitalii Barabash, the city's military administration head.

During the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the town remains one of Russia's primary goals as an important defense node in Donetsk Oblast, half of which is currently occupied.

In March, Russian troops made substantial gains on the southern and northern flanks of Avdiivka. Ukrainian military spokesperson Oleksii Dmytrashkivskyi said on March 20, adding that the city could become a "second Bakhmut."

Since then, Ukraine's military has stabilized defense lines near the city, with little territory changing hands.

The U.K. Defense Ministry, in its April 18 intelligence update, said there is a "realistic possibility" Russia has diverted troops and resources from Avdiivka toward Bakhmut, where they are continuing to make "creeping advances."

As of mid-April, Ukraine's forces hold parts of Bakhmut, west of the railway line, while Russian troops led by Wagner Group mercenaries have taken the administrative center.

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Surviving Avdiivka: Russia intensifies assault on city deemed a second Bakhmut AVDIIVKA, Donetsk Oblast  Avdiivka is an eerie city to drive into in March 2023. One year into Russias full-scale war against Ukraine, but nine years into the Donbas war, the compact city just 10 kilometers from the center of occupied Donetsk is barely holding on. There is little choice Kyiv IndependentFrancis Farrell

Putin reportedly visits occupied territories

The Kremlin claimed on April 18 that Russian President Vladimir Putin recently visited the occupied territories in Kherson and Luhansk oblasts.

Ukraine's Center for Investigative Journalism verified the place visited by Putin to be the Russian military headquarters in the village of Shchaslyvtseve, Kherson Oblast.

The place, which used to be a vocation center, is located over 100 kilometers from the front line and less than 10 kilometers northeast of occupied Crimea.

Lithuania's Prime Minister Ingrida Simonyte said the Russian propaganda messages seem to be trying to mimic Zelensky and thus inspire the demotivated Russian troops.

It was Putin second reported visit to the territories occupied by Russia since February 2022. Days after the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Putin, he allegedly traveled to occupied Crimea and Mariupol in Donetsk Oblast in mid-March.

Macron wants China to force Kyiv, Moscow to talk

French President Emmanuel Macron wants China to help bring Kyiv and Moscow to the negotiations table as soon as this summer, Bloomberg reported on April 18, citing unnamed sources.

According to the report, Macron's foreign policy adviser Emmanuel Bonne was tasked to work with Wang Yi, China's top diplomat, "to establish a framework that could be used as a basis for future negotiations" between Ukraine and Russia.

After meeting with China's leader Xi Jinping in early April, Macron said that he believed China had a major role in "building peace."

However, three days after meeting Xi, Macron said France and China see it to be too early for peace talks as "today, the time is military."

"Ukrainians are resisting, and we are helping them," Macron said in an April 9 interview with Les Echos. "The time is not for negotiations, even if we prepare them, we have to set milestones," he added.

Zelensky talked with Macron on April 15 to discuss his recent visit to China and the situation on the front line.

China has positioned itself as a potential mediator between Ukraine and Russia and offered a widely criticized 12-point "peace plan" that does not explicitly include the withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukrainian territory.

Russian mercenary claims he knows more war crimes committed in Ukraine

Alexey Savichev, a former Wagner Group mercenary, said that his alleged confession about executing dozens of Ukrainian civilians, including children, was "only 10%" of what he could share, Russian independent outlet Vertska reported on April 18.

Russian opposition media outlet Gulagu.net published a video on April 17 where two former prisoners turned mercenaries, Savichev and Azamat Uldarov, said they committed war crimes in Bakhmut and Soledar, Donetsk Oblast, as part of the Wagner mercenary group.

Both said they were ordered by Wagner Group boss Yevgeniy Prigozhin, Putin's confidant, to "clean up" two front-line towns, meaning kill everyone.

Savichev told Vertska he had been offered 10,000 rubles ($123) for the Gulagu.net interview, adding he decided to talk "just to eat and survive."

He claimed he had received multiple threats since the interview was published online.

"I only told 10% of what could be told. And for this 10%, I am now hiding, running like a rat across Russia," Savichev allegedly said.

Savichev admitted throwing around 30 grenades into a pit with 50-60 wounded Ukrainian POWs and Wagner deserters, saying he "would rather have fulfilled the order and go warm up because it was very cold." Uldarov confessed to killing several hundred Ukrainian civilians, including a child, sheltering in a basement.

Following the interviews, Ukraine's Prosecutor General launched an investigation into violation of the laws and customs of war on April 17.

Ukraine investigates 80,840 cases of alleged war crimes and crimes of aggression committed by Russia, the Prosecutor General's Office said on April 17, adding that Russia's war has killed at least 470 children and wounded at least 948 since late February 2022.

Prigozhin denied Savichev and Uldarov's claims, calling them "a blatant lie," saying both would be dealt with "in a special way."

Prigozhin's Wagner Group has been accused of war crimes, including torture and extrajudicial killings of civilians and prisoners of war in several countries, including Ukraine and Syria.

The U.S. has previously accused Russian mercenaries of exploiting natural resources in several African countries and elsewhere to fund its military aggression against Ukraine.

Prigozhin and his closest family members were sanctioned by a number of countries, including the U.S. and Ukraine in 2022 and the U.K. in 2020.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov is on a trip to Brazil

The White House has sharply criticised Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva for accusing the United States of "encouraging" the war in Ukraine.

Lula said after a visit to China at the weekend that the US needed to start talking about peace in Ukraine.

Visiting Brazil, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov met Lula and thanked Brazil for its efforts.

US National Security Council spokesman John Kirby accused Lula of "parroting Russian and Chinese propaganda".

Lula, who has pitched himself as a broker for peace talks to end the conflict, said over the weekend that "the United States needs to stop encouraging war and start talking about peace".

His comments came after meeting Chinese President Xi Jinping. China published a peace plan in February that does not explicitly call for Russia to leave Ukraine.

Russia waged a full invasion of Ukraine in February last year. The International Criminal Court has since issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Mr Lavrov, who visited Brasilia on Monday, said that Moscow was "grateful to our Brazilian friends for their clear understanding of the genesis of the situation".

"We are grateful for their desire to contribute to finding ways to settle this situation," he said.

Mr Kirby said Lula's comments were "simply misguided" and missed the mark by "suggesting the United States and Europe are somehow not interested in peace, or that we share responsibility for the war".

In response, Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira said of Mr Kirby: "I don't know how or why he reached that conclusion but I do not agree at all."

Brazil has not joined Western countries in imposing sanctions on Russia and has refused requests to supply ammunition to Ukraine.

While Brazil is calling for peace talks, Ukraine and its allies say an immediate ceasefire would allow Russia to keep hold of territory it illegally obtained through force.
Former Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko, with the assistance of an interpreter, speaks to a group gathered at the World Trade Center Utah office in Salt Lake City on Monday, April 17, 2023. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Former Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko, who survived an assassination attempt by poisoning in 2004 before becoming the countrys third president, had a simple message Monday during a visit to Utah:

Ukraine will be free.

He expressed certainty that Ukraine will win the war against Russian President Vladimir Putin, noting the 54 countries that are supporting Ukraine make up 75% of the world GDP, compared to Russias 2%.

Of course we have no doubts, together we will win, he said through his translator, Maryna Antonova.

His comments came when Yushchenko, alongside his wife, Kateryna, met with Utah officials and business leaders in Salt Lake City at the World Trade Center Utahs downtown office Monday afternoon.

Earlier in the day, the former president, who served from 2005 to 2010, also met with the Deseret News editorial board. His visit concluded with a benefit dinner Monday evening at the Grand America hosted by the Idaho-based charity To Ukraine With Love, and sponsored by Zions Bank, Wasatch Group, Gardner and The Dell Loy Hansen Family Foundation. Utah real estate developer Dell Loy Hansen has taken a personal interest in aiding Ukraine and has committed millions in donations to help build dozens of homes in destroyed neighborhoods through To Ukraine With Love.

Utah Gov. Spencer Cox, among other state officials, attended Monday nights benefit dinner and exchanged words of support with the former president.

Its an honor to have him here, Cox told the Deseret News in an interview Monday evening. But also a helpful reminder to all of us of the destruction that is happening in Ukraine, but the hope that is there as well.

Cox pointed to his recent call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and his focus on ensuring the rebuilding effort starts now, not just when the war is over. Cox noted many generous Utahns are helping with rebuilding efforts. But as the war persists, he urged Utahns to keep the charitable work coming.

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Id like to see Utah continue to support the work the same way we did in the first couple of weeks, Cox said. Its easy to forget as it drags on and resources are being spent, but these are real people and this is truly good versus evil. And I believe that history will smile kindly on states like Utah who have been so generous.

Related

During each gathering, Yushchenko described both the challenges and the hope of the war-torn country still fighting to suppress Russias invasion that began more than a year ago. Ukraine has been at war with Russia since 2014, but has been fighting off a full-scale invasion since Feb. 24, 2022.

Yushchenko urged Ukraines allies to continue supporting his country  but to also think about the future of Russia after we win this war. ... If Russia stays the way it is, it means that we fail in whatever goals we are setting for ourselves. With Russia the way it is, no country in the world can safely plan its future, he said.

Former Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko and his wife Kateryna Yushchenko walk out of the World Trade Center Utah offices in Salt Lake City on Monday, April 17, 2023. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

The victory in the war of Ukraine is, first of all, the victory of the free world, he said, and creating everything that is necessary to make sure that Russia never again becomes the source of aggression, the source of instability, and the source of war.

While applauding continued efforts to send aid to Ukraine  whether its food or supplies to millions of displaced Ukrainians  Yushchenko also urged Ukraines allies in Utah and across the world to also help the country build itself back up even stronger than before the invasion.

Economically, Yushchenko said Ukraine has enormous potential to expand its grain processing and exports to help farmers build their businesses and, therefore, the countrys entire economy. He urged the U.S. to share its expertise, technology and exporting capabilities to help Ukraine access a larger market.

Related

Im dreaming big, but this is something that we can all do and something that is worth attention of a country with such advanced technology, resources and knowledge as the United States, he said.

Yushchenkos visit comes ahead of an upcoming trade mission, during which Utah officials are expected to visit Ukraine and meet with humanitarian organizations as well as government officials.

Franz Kolb, international trade and diplomacy director for the Utah Governors Office of Economic Opportunity, welcomed Yushchenko to the Beehive State.

We want you to know that the state of Utah is committed to Ukraine, Kolb said at the lunch hosted by World Trade Center Utah. Id like to not just welcome you. We are a state of action.

Yushchenko also applauded the work of To Ukraine With Love, a nonprofit that has fielded millions in donations to bring everything from sleeping bags to hot meals to displaced Ukrainians. The charity has also built modular homes to house families in hard-hit villages near Kyiv.

This is what is the most important for millions of people living in Ukraine and suffering from the consequences of the war, he told the Deseret News editorial board. What to eat? Where to live? Will schools reopen again? How can we get access to health services? How to bring families together that are separated by time and distance? How to come back to the houses that are destroyed. ... All these issues are on everyones agenda in Ukraine today.

Related

Yushchenko, at the conclusion of his remarks, offered a blue and yellow flag to Utah officials, which he signed with a black marker. On the flag next to his signature, he also drew a sketch of a traditional Ukrainian home.

This is the ideal Ukraine we all have in our minds, he said. A country with beautiful houses.

Utah officials gifted the former president a crystal honeypot in the shape of a beehive, symbolizing the states motto of industry and collaboration.

Former Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko speaks to a group gathered at the World Trade Center Utah office in Salt Lake City on Monday, April 17, 2023. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Getting Putin out of the U.N.?

Yushchenko told the Deseret News editorial board that he believes Putin should be pushed out of the United Nations Security Council, describing it as one of my personal goals.

I think there are many reasons to do this, to push Russia out, plus we do know that many lawyers of the world, including American lawyers, are working hard on making sure that this happens.

At the time of his presidency, Yushchenko said he dealt with Putin one-on-one at times but they covered important issues that were on the bilateral agenda between Russia and Ukraine.

Yushchenko noted hes always been a very open opponent to Russian policies and politics, but at the time we did deal with each other as partners. I did feel that there was respect towards Ukraine and me as a person speaking on behalf of Ukraine.

What was going (on) in Putins head, I am not going to comment, but at least we had a dialogue. I also understand I was probably the most undesirable person in the position of Ukraine that Putin ever wanted to see. But we still dealt with him and discussed whatever issues were important for both countries at the time.

Related

Yushchenko won the Ukrainian presidency after the Orange Revolution, or a series of nationwide protests throughout Ukraine that challenged election results that were in favor of his opponent, Viktor Yanukovych. The protests led to the original results being annulled, and Ukraines Supreme Court ordering a revote. The final results showed a victory for Yushchenko with about 52% of the vote.

Yushchenko said Putin congratulated his opponent three times, but still ultimately had to deal with me. He said he doesnt remember Putin ever congratulating him on his election, but its not about private relations, because I was representing my country. My job as president was to protect interests of my country and discuss issues that were important for our bilateral agenda.

Yushchenko applauded Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and his administration in how well they communicate the needs of Ukraine to other countries.

Why Utahns should care

Yushchenko said whats happening in Ukraine, no matter where you live, affects everyone globally.

The question is always who is next? What nation will be attacked? he said. The problem is that Putin wants to revise the whole security arrangement of the world, he wants to have a larger sphere of influence.

Yushchenko said Putin wants the Soviet Union back.

This is why I say that if you live in Utah ... this all comes to you. This is all about protecting security in the people of Utah as well. Because what we fight for in Ukraine is to make sure that Russia is not imposing its chaos, imposing its brutality, (and) does not influence policies and security arrangements for any other country of the world.

He said Ukraines allies must ask, What do we do then to the source of aggression? What do we do then with making sure something like that never happens again?

This is where it becomes very complicated. If we are all together as allies in this war, if it is OK with us that after what Russia did to Ukraine and to other parts of the world they can still be a country like they are and they can still preserve this regime and the influence and Russia stays the source of aggression and the source of security challenges and the source of instability for the whole world, it will let Russia continue to do what they do after the victory of Ukraine, Yushchenko said.

I think we all lose.
On his work trip to Kuwait, Dmytro Kuleba, Ukraines Foreign Affairs Minister, called on the country to join the efforts to reconstruct Ukraine.

Source: press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Kuleba on Twitter

Quote: "In Kuwait, I met with Waleed Al-Bahar, Acting Director of the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, to invite Kuwait to take part in the reconstruction of Ukraine.

We discussed social and humanitarian projects, particularly school and hospital construction."

Details: Waleed Al-Bahar reported that his fund is ready to participate in the International Conference on Reconstruction of Ukraine, which is planned at the end of June. According to Al-Bahar, cooperation with Ukraine is one of the priorities of the fund.

Special attention is devoted to social causes, such as building of new hospitals, schools, kindergartens, as well as development of programs of psychological support and rehabilitation of Ukrainians who were affected by the war.

A meeting of the experts of both countries will take place in the near future, where they will discuss in-detail the possibilities of cooperation.

Kuleba emphasised that "in the overall perspective of post-war reconstruction, Ukraine is likely to become the largest construction site in the world".

Background:

The Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development is a state agency responsible for providing financial and technological aid to developing countries.

It was established in 1961 and allocates a part of the revenues from oil exports to providing financial and technological aid to developing countries. The Fund acts under the leadership of the Foreign Affairs Minister of Kuwait.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has invited Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva to visit Ukraine to understand the true nature of the war, following his scandalous statement.

Source: Oleh Nikolenko, spokesperson for the MFA, on Facebook

Before that, the Brazilian president said that the war was allegedly caused by "decisions made by the two countries" and accused both Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelenskyy of not taking the initiative to end the war.

Quote: "Ukraine is eagerly following the efforts of the Brazilian president to find a solution to end the war.

At the same time, the approach of placing the victim and the aggressor on the same scale does not reflect the actual state of affairs, and countries that help Ukraine defend itself against deadly aggression are accused of encouraging war.

More than anyone else, we are committed to ending Russian aggression based on the peace formula proposed by President Zelenskyy."

Details: The MFA stressed that Ukraine "does not need to be convinced of anything" because the war is being waged on Ukrainian territory.

Nikolenko also confirmed the invitation to Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva to visit Ukraine to understand the true causes and nature of Russian aggression and its consequences for global security.

Background:

Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has repeatedly accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of being too friendly. He made this statement amidst Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrovs visit to Brazil.

On 17 April, the White House sharply criticised Brazil after the president's statement.

In early April, Silva suggested that Ukraine give up Crimea and end the war. The MFA responded by saying that Ukraine does not trade its territories.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
Gunners of the Airborne Assault Forces managed to hit the target while it was moving

The video shows Sicheslavsk 25th separate airborne brigade artillerymen hitting a moving target with precision, destroying the enemy BMP along with its crew.

Read also: Ukrainian Armed Forces destroy two radar stations, air defense system, warehouse  General Staff

There is still a lot of work ahead, but this does not sadden us and will not stop us! We will completely liberate our beloved Ukraine! the Command said in the video caption.

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Judging by the released footage, it is a controlled detonation

A video of the incident was posted on social media on April 18.

Read also: Russia continues creeping advance in Bakhmut  UK intelligence

It shows a massive blast, causing a huge column of dust to rise into the air.

The building was destroyed by soldiers of the 77th separate airmobile brigade of the Airborne Assault Troops of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

The brigade was forced to destroy the facility, presumably, to deprive the Russian invaders of the opportunity to use the facility as a shelter to concentrate their forces and launch future attacks.

Read also: Ukrainian defenders strike Russian positions, destroy three aircraft bombs

The Ukrainian brigade has retreated to a more advantageous position.

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Foreign trade operations were conducted with partners from 206 countries of the world

Ukrainian exports amounted to $6.45 billion (57.2% y-o-y), while imports were $10.17 billion (82.1%), leaving a negative trade balance of $3.71 billion (against $1.08 billion in January-February 2022).

Read also: Sea exports of Russian crude via Black Sea to grow despite embargo in January 2023  BlackSeaNews

Ukraine conducted foreign trade with partners from 206 countries over the last 12 months.

Read also: New EU sanctions on Russia to target technology exports, including Iranian drones

Seasonally adjusted exports increased by 4.8% in February against January 2023, while imports grew by 3.2%.

At the same time, seasonally adjusted balance of foreign trade was negative and amounted to $2.2 billion in February 2023. It was the same last month, a $2.2 billion negative balance.

The value of exports in Ukraine has been slowly decreasing since September: from $4.1 billion to $3.32 billion. This is primarily due to the slowdown of the grain corridor and the correction of prices on the world market.

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In no other country have women and girls so rapidly disappeared from all spheres of public life." - AP/AP

The United Nations is ready to take the heartbreaking decision to pull out of Afghanistan next month unless the Taliban reverse an edict banning local women from working for the organisation.

UN officials are asking the Taliban regime to make exemptions to the order made earlier this month, which is the latest in growing restrictions imposed since the former insurgents took power.

It is fair to say that where we are right now is the entire United Nations system having to take a step back and re-evaluating its ability to operate there," the head of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) told Associated Press.

Achim Steiner said: But its not about negotiating fundamental principles, human rights.

The United Nations agencies have played a central role in feeding Afghans and trying to keep basic services running in the past 18 months, as the country dives further into poverty.

Pull-out described as 'devastating'

Michael Kugelman, South Asia Institute Director of the Wilson Center, described the potential pull-out as "devastating".

"Afghanistan is facing its highest risk of famine in 25 yrs, and the UN is one of the only major international groups on the ground providing relief," he said.

The Taliban have increasingly removed women and girls from public life since they overthrew the internationally-backed government in August 2021.

Girls are not allowed in secondary school. Women have been removed from government departments and banned from work in most sectors. They have been ordered to cover their faces in public and told they cannot travel long distances without a chaperone.

In the latest decree, the Taliban said that female Afghan staff employed with the UN mission can no longer report for work.

This is a very fundamental moment that were approaching, Mr Steiner said. And obviously our hope and expectation is that there will be some common sense prevailing.

Without female staff the UN would struggle to interact with Afghan women, many of whom will not discuss sensitive issues with men or meet with them in private.

Story continues

Severe humanitarian crisis

Afghanistan was one of the world's most severe humanitarian crises before the Taliban took power and its situation has worsened as international funding has been cut and the economy has collapsed.

But the UN has decided that despite the need, human rights are non-negotiable and the organisation will leave in May if the Taliban do not relent.

I think there is no other way of putting it than heartbreaking, Mr Steiner said. I mean, if I were to imagine the UN family not being in Afghanistan today, I have before me these images of millions of young girls, young boys, fathers, mothers, who essentially will not have enough to eat.

During negotiations to secure the American troop withdrawal that precipitated the Taliban victory, the insurgents assured Washington they did not wish to return to their repressive 1990s policies.

Women increasingly marginalised

Yet since they took power they have instead increasingly marginalised women.

In no other country have women and girls so rapidly disappeared from all spheres of public life, nor are they as disadvantaged in every aspect of their lives, Richard Bennet, the special rapporteur for human rights in Afghanistan concluded last year.

The hard line position is apparently being dictated by the Taliban's supreme leader, Haibatullah Akhundzada and his inner circle in the city of Kandahar.

There have been signs of dissent among other senior Taliban figures, including some criticism of both the direction of the regime and the way the leadership is monopolising power.

Some 3,300 Afghans are employed by the UN, 2,700 men and 600 women, and have remained at home since April 12 but continue to work and will be paid, the organisation said. The UNs 600 international staff, including 200 women, are not affected by the ban.
The number of Afghans in poverty nearly doubled to 34 million as the nation was racked by the collapse of the US-backed government and the Taliban takeover, the United Nations said Tuesday.

Vast foreign subsidies were halted and aid programmes dramatically cut back after the US-backed republic fell in 2021 as many countries refused to deal with the Taliban authorities in Kabul.

Those NGOs still providing vital help were dealt a further blow in December last year by a Taliban government order barring Afghan women from working for them.

The curb was extended this month to the UN's Afghan women employees and the organisation said it faces an "appalling choice" over whether to continue its aid schemes.

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) released on Tuesday a stark new assessment of 2022 data estimating 34 million Afghans were living below the poverty line.

The figure is a staggering increase of 15 million on 2020, the last full year of rule by the Western-backed government that crumbled in a matter of weeks the following summer.

There is no contemporary census data for Afghanistan but the UN uses a population estimate of 40 million, meaning 85 percent of the nation is projected to be in poverty.

"Some have been compelled to sell their homes, land, or assets that generate income," the UNDP report said.

"Others have resorted to the distressing practice of commodifying their own family members, turning children into labourers and young daughters into brides."

The UN airlifts vast sums of US dollars into Afghanistan to pay staff and operating costs -- cash injections that have also been vital in shoring up the nation's faltering economy.

- 'Into the abyss' -

About $1.8 billion was imported this way between December 2021 and January 2023, according to the UN's mission in Afghanistan.

It warned at the start of the year "if the volume of assistance that the UN is able to provide diminishes the amount of cash shipped will be reduced".

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That means if the UN winnows down its work owing to the Taliban government curbs, it will have the double effect of reducing aid and cutting a crucial economic lifeline for desperate Afghans.

The UN has also warned that restrictions may turn off the aid tap at the source, with donors wary of committing cash to projects that cannot be implemented.

The UN's 2023 Afghanistan appeal has thus far raised only five percent of its $4.6 billion goal.

"If foreign aid is reduced this year, Afghanistan may fall from the cliff edge into the abyss," the UNDP resident representative in Afghanistan, Abdallah Al Dardari, said in a statement.

Many organisations suspended their operations in protest against the December ban on NGOs employing Afghan women.

An exemption was granted to those working in the health sector following days of wrangling, but the UNDP said 150 NGOs and aid agencies "have suspended all or part of their work".

Aid officials say they need women workers to help identify and support Afghan women beneficiaries across the country.

"The ban has very negative consequences," Dardari told reporters during the release of the UNDP report in Kabul.

"If we don't have those female colleagues, who will knock on the door and provide support and talk to Afghan women in their homes?"

- Negative impact -

The UN has told all Afghan citizens, both men and women, to stay away from its offices since Taliban authorities banned Afghan female UN staff from work two weeks ago.

"For now they are working from home and they will continue to be UN staff and they will continue to be paid," Dardari said.

The order is the latest in a slew of creeping restrictions on the freedoms of women since 2021 that have seen teenage girls barred from schools and women pushed out of many government jobs.

In a wide-ranging public statement ahead of the Muslim festival of Eid al-Fitr, Taliban supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada said "the development of Afghanistan is the responsibility of Afghans".

"We should not rely on others," he said.

Qatar, traditionally a major donor which has pressed the Taliban authorities to end the ban on women workers, said it sent on Tuesday its first humanitarian flight to Afghanistan in 10 months carrying food, medical supplies and books.

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A United Airlines plane taking off from San Francisco International Airport. Courtesy of United Airlines

United plans to operate 66 flights per week connecting the US and the South Pacific region this winter.

That's a 40% increase in United flights to Australia and New Zealand compared to 2022.

The schedule includes a new direct flight between San Francisco and Christchurch, New Zealand.

United Airlines is planning to ramp up its flights connecting the US to Australia and New Zealand by nearly 40%, the carrier announced Tuesday.

Over the winter, it plans to operate 66 flights per week between the two regions.

The expansion includes a new direct flight between San Francisco International Airport and Christchurch International Airport in New Zealand, starting December 1. United plans to fly the route three times per week on a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner and would be the only airline to offer a direct connection between Christchurch and the US.

United also plans to add four weekly flights connecting Los Angeles International Airport and Auckland Airport in New Zealand starting October 28, and three weekly flights between LA and Brisbane Airport in Australia, starting November 29. The airline says it will operate both routes with Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners.

The new flights between San Francisco and Christchurch, Los Angeles; Auckland and Los Angeles; and Los Angeles and Brisbane are all subject to government approval.

Additionally, United plans to start offering daily flights between San Francisco and Brisbane, and twice daily flights between San Francisco and Sydney, starting October 28.

United currently connects San Francisco to Brisbane three times per week, and San Francisco to Sydney daily.

The airline also plans to add around 100 seats per day to its flights between San Francisco and Melbourne, Australia by operating the route with its largest aircraft, the 777-300ER, starting October 28.

In the winter of last year, United Airlines was already the main airline connecting the US and the South Pacific with 512,715 seats, according to aviation blog Simple Flying, an 18% increase compared to 2019.

Read the original article on Business Insider
The full moon rises over the sky in Istanbul, with the Camlica Mosque, the largest mosque in Asia Minor on March 28, 2021, in an AP file photo. MU professor Eric Sandvol will meet up with other researchers deploying hundreds of small earthquake sensors in the earthquake zone for a National Science Foundation project.

After a grad student for Eric Sandvol defends a dissertation, the two will head to Turkey to meet up with other researchers deploying hundreds of small earthquake sensors in the earthquake zone for a National Science Foundation project.

Sandvol, a University of Missouri professor of geological sciences, and his grad student leave for Turkey on April 27. There, they will meet up with teams from Georgia Tech and the Scientific and Technological Research Institution of Turkey. It's Turkey's counterpart to the NSF, Sandvol said.

The small, autonomous sensors are a little bigger than a soda can. Unlike traditional seismographs, they're not required to be anchored in concrete, he said.

"These things, you just put them in the ground," Sandvol said. "You can deploy hundreds very rapidly. We will have a total of 250 of them."

The project is supported by an NSF rapid response grant.

They measure ground motion in three directions, he said.

The February earthquakes in Turkey and Syria were unusual in several ways, making them good for research, Sandvol said.

"Number one, they were really big," he said.

The East Anatolian fault, where the earthquakes occurred, is a strike-slip fault, which doesn't typically produce large-scale earthquakes. The 7.8 magnitude and 7.5 magnitude earthquakes occurred nine hours apart

"This is really big for the kind of fault it's on," Sandvol said. "That's the reason so many people lost their lives."

Where there's a bend in the fault is where an earthquake usually stops. Not this time, he said. It continued around a bend in the fault zone into a part of Turkey that borders Syria causing more destruction in that country.

Why didn't it stop this time?

"That's one of the reasons we want to go there," Sandvol said. "It's a really interesting research question."

The second earthquake probably shouldn't be considered an aftershock, because it was nearly as strong as the first one, Sandvol said.

"It was a comparable size," he said. "Usually aftershocks are orders of magnitude smaller."

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What happened in Turkey is considered a doublet, he said.

There has been enough restoration of infrastructure that the project will be safe, Sandvol said.

"Our colleagues have already been to the earthquake zone," he said.

They will be staying in a region that suffered little damage, he said.

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: MU professor, grad student, headed to Turkey earthquake zone for NSF
The US Justice Department on Tuesday charged the founder and three members of a half-century-old Black nationalist group with working with Russian intelligence to influence elections in the United States.

Omali Yeshitela, the founder of the African People's Socialist Party (APSP) and the Uhuru Movement, and two other party members, Penny Joanne Hess and Jesse Nevel, were charged with acting as unregistered agents of Russia, which carries a maximum five-year prison sentence.

All three, as well as another member named Augustus Romain, have also been charged with conspiring to act as agents for Russia, which brings up to 10 years in prison.

According to an indictment, the four people took money and other support from US-based Russian Alexandr Ionov and Moscow-based officers of Russia's FSB intelligence agency who directed Ionov.

Ionov was charged last year for running a political influence operation directed by the FSB, but his US contacts were not named, though APSP facilities were raided by the FBI at the time.

Charges against Ionov, who is believed to be back in Russia, were updated in Tuesday's indictment filed in Tampa, Florida.

Undercover as president of the Moscow-based Anti-Globalization Movement of Russia, Ionov used the APSP and Uhuru movements, and Romain's Georgia-based spinoff Black Hammer, to promote Russian views on politics, the Ukraine war and other issues.

Yeshitela traveled to Russia in 2015 where he entered a partnership with Ionov's group, according to the indictment.

In 2016 Ionov funded a four-city protest tour by APSP supporting a "Petition on Crime of Genocide against African People in the United States," according to the Justice Department.

In 2017 and 2019, the group also actively sought to influence local elections in St. Petersburg, Florida -- where the four Americans are based -- and then the 2020 national elections, according to the charges.

It said that in 2022 Romain and Black Hammer received funding from Ionov and his group "to further the interests of Russia in relation to the Russian invasion of Ukraine."

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The Justice Department said the Americans all knew Ionov worked for the Russian government.

The indictment, which also charged two FSB officers based in Russia, said Ionov had provided funding to an unnamed political group in California that advocated California's secession from the United States.

And in a parallel indictment filed in Washington, the US charged Russian national Natalia Burlinova, the head of the academic outreach organization PICREADI, with operating with the FSB to recruit Americans.

"Today's announcement paints a harrowing picture of Russian government actions and the lengths to which the FSB will go to interfere with our elections, sow discord in our nation and ultimately recruit US citizens to their efforts," said FBI Acting Assistant Director Kurt Ronnow.

pmh/des
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP)  Four Americans affiliated with a Black empowerment and political organization have been charged along with three Russians with conspiring to covertly sow discord in U.S. society, spread Russian propaganda and interfere illegally in U.S. elections, according to an indictment unsealed Tuesday.

The U.S. citizens and two Russians were added to an existing case in Tampa, Florida, federal court involving Aleksandr Ionov, described by prosecutors as the founder of a Moscow-based organization funded by the Russian government to carry out a clandestine influence campaign in the U.S.

The four Americans are all part of the African People's Socialist Party and Uhuru Movement, which has locations in St. Petersburg, Florida, and St. Louis. Among those charged is Omali Yeshitela, chairman of the U.S.-based organization  which was raided by the FBI last summer when Ionov was originally charged.

Russia's foreign intelligence service allegedly weaponized our First Amendment rights  freedoms Russia denies to its own citizens  to divide Americans and interfere in elections in the United States, said Assistant Attorney General Matthew Olsen of the Justice Department's National Security Division.

The department will not hesitate to expose and prosecute those who sow discord and corrupt U.S. elections in service of hostile foreign interests, regardless of whether the culprits are U.S. citizens or foreign individuals abroad, Olsen said in a news release.

Yeshitela and three other U.S. citizens  Penny Joanne Hess, Jesse Nevel and Augustus C. Romain Jr  are charged with conspiracy to defraud the U.S. Hess, Yeshitela and Nevel are also charged with impersonating agents of a foreign government. Ionov and the other two Russians, who remain in their country, face the fraud conspiracy charge.

Court records did not list attorneys for any of the seven defendants, and it wasn't immediately clear if they have been arrested. An email seeking comment was sent to the African People's Socialist Party, which has previously denied working covertly for Russia or that any members committed a crime.

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Prosecutors said Ionov operated an entity called the Anti-Globalization Movement of Russia that was used to carry out its U.S. influence efforts, overseen by the Russian intelligence service known as the FSB. They recruited U.S.-based organizations to help sway elections, make it appear there was strong support in the U.S. for Russia's invasion of Ukraine and backing efforts such as a 2015 United Nations petition to decry the genocide of African people in the U.S., according to the indictment.

Among other things, the indictment charges that an unnamed candidate for local office in St. Petersburg received clandestine funding and political strategy from the group. Ionov and another Russian said at one point that their Florida effort would extend to the 2020 presidential campaign, which they called the main topic of the year.

The Uhuru group did have a candidate who ran unsuccessfully for St. Petersburg City Council in 2019, Eritha Akile Cainion. who is not charged in the indictment. She held a news conference in 2022 in which she defended Russia, saying world colonial powers have been collaborating against Russia" for more than a century.

St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch, a Democrat, called the allegations troubling. It is important to underscore that the City of St. Petersburg does not support, condone or tolerate any foreign government engaging in activities to undermine or influence our elections, Welch said in a statement.

Yeshitela, the indictment adds, traveled from Tampa to Moscow in 2015 to meet with Ionov and other Russians to communicate on future cooperation, according to an Ionov email. What followed was covert Russian funding and support for various activities in the U.S. until summer 2022, including demonstrations at the California and Georgia state capitols and at an unnamed social media company in San Francisco.

Much of the alleged cooperation involved support for Russian's invasion of Ukraine. In March 2022, Yeshitela held a news conference in which he said the African People's Socialist Party calls for unity with Russia in its defensive war in Ukraine against the world colonial powers. He also called for the independence of the Russian-occupied Donetsk region in eastern Ukraine.

In addition, the Justice Department announced a separate indictment in Washington charging Russian national Natalia Burlinova with conspiring with Russian intelligence to recruit U.S. academics and researchers to attend programs that advanced Russian interests. Burlinova concealed that her efforts were funded by the Russian government, prosecutors said.

It was not immediately clear Tuesday if Burlinova has an attorney to speak on her behalf.
A group of four U.S. citizens and three Russian nationals have been charged in connection to an investigation into a foreign influence campaign.

The Justice Department (DOJ) said in a release on Tuesday that a federal grand jury issued a superseding indictment against the individuals, alleging they were working on behalf of the Russian government and with the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB), the countrys main security and intelligence force, to influence U.S. politics over multiple years.

The indictment adds to a case the DOJ has been pursuing against Aleksandr Viktorovich Ionov, the founder and president of a Moscow-based organization called the Anti-Globalization Movement of Russia. He was charged in July with conspiring to have U.S. citizens act as agents on behalf of the Russian government.

Officials allege Ionov used his organization to conduct the foreign influence campaign with supervision from FSB officers. The superseding indictment names Aleksey Borisovich Sukhodolov and Yegor Sergeyevich Popov as FSB officers who were responsible for directing the campaign.

The release states that the three Russian defendants recruited, funded and directed political groups in the United States to act illegally as unregistered agents of Moscow and spread pro-Russian propaganda.

Russias foreign intelligence service allegedly weaponized our First Amendment rights  freedoms Russia denies its own citizens  to divide Americans and interfere in elections in the United States, Assistant Attorney General for the DOJs National Security Division Matthew Olsen said.

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The release alleges Ionov engaged in the campaign from at least November 2014 to July 2022. He allegedly recruited members from three political groups in Florida, Georgia and California to participate in the campaign.

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The four U.S. citizens who are being indicted are people whom Ionov allegedly recruited to participate. They are Omali Yeshitela, Penny Joanne Hess, Jesse Nevel and Augustus C. Romain Jr. Yeshitela, Hess and Nevel are residents of St. Petersburg, Fla., and St. Louis, while Romain is a resident of St. Petersburg and Atlanta.

Prosecutors allege that Ionov, Sukhodolov and Popov conspired to influence democratic elections by funding a political candidate running for local office in St. Petersburg in 2019 and also planned to influence other elections, including possibly the 2020 presidential election.

Ionovs campaign also allegedly tried to create an appearance of the U.S. publics support for Russia annexing territories in Ukraine and generally spread propaganda supporting Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine, according to the DOJ.

All seven indicted individuals are being charged with conspiring to have U.S. citizens act as illegal agents of the Russian government and could face up to five years in prison if convicted. Yeshitela, Hess and Nevel are also being charged with acting as agents of Russia without notifying the U.S. government and could face up to 10 years in prison if convicted.

A separate criminal complaint charging a Russian national with conspiring with an FSB officer to act as an illegal agent of Moscow has also been unsealed, the release states.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
By Humeyra Pamuk

KARUIZAWA, Japan (Reuters) -A U.S. diplomatic convoy came under fire on Monday in Sudan in an apparent attack by fighters associated with Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Tuesday, in an incident he described as "reckless" and "irresponsible".

The incident prompted a direct warning from Blinken, who separately telephoned RSF leader General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, and Sudan's army chief General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, to tell them that any danger posed to American diplomats was unacceptable.

"I can confirm that yesterday we had an American diplomatic convoy that was fired on," Blinken said at a news conference in the Japanese resort town of Karuizawa where he attended a meeting of the Group of Seven foreign ministers.

"I made very clear that any attacks threats, dangerous posed to our diplomats were totally unacceptable."

The people in the diplomatic convoy were safe, he said.

"We have deep concerns of course about the overall security environment as it affects civilians, as it affects diplomats, as it affects aid workers," he said.

The United States was in close coordination other countries that have influence in Sudan, including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Britain, he said, as well as the African Union and other international organisations.

Fighting in Sudan has killed at least 185 people and injured more than 1,800 others as both sides claimed gains in a conflict that has seen the use of air strikes and artillery.

Clashes have continued despite numerous calls from the United States and other countries for a halt to fighting as well as efforts by Egypt and the United Arab Emirates to get the rivals to agree to a ceasefire.

(Reporting by Humeyra Pamuk; Writing by Tim Kelly; Editing by Kim Coghill, Michael Perry and David Dolan)
Prosecutors in the US state of Missouri have announced felony charges against an elderly white man after he allegedly shot and severely wounded a Black teenager who mistakenly rang his doorbell.

Ralph Yarl, 16, was in critical condition after he was shot twice, once in the head, last Thursday night when he rang the doorbell at the wrong house while trying to pick up his twin brothers from a friend's home nearby.

Outrage rose over the case throughout the weekend, after it was revealed that the homeowner had been released without charges following 24 hours in custody.

However on Monday, Clay County prosecutor Zachary Thompson announced that the homeowner, identified as Andrew Lester, had been charged with assault in the first degree and armed criminal action.

Bail for Lester, whose age was variously given as 84 and 85 by prosecutors and US media, was set at $200,000.

"To pretend that race is not a part of this whole situation would be to have your head in the sand," Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas told CNN Tuesday. "This boy was shot because he was existing while black."

The White House announced Monday evening that President Joe Biden had spoken by phone to Yarl "and shared his hope for a swift recovery."

Yarl's aunt, Faith Spoonmoore, said on a GoFundMe campaign that her nephew was a gifted student who dreamed of studying chemical engineering. As of Tuesday morning, the fundraiser had pulled in more than $2.8 million for Yarl.

Deadly shootings are a regular occurrence in the United States, a country of around 330 million people that is awash with an estimated 400 million guns.

But Yarl's case has sparked a particular outcry as the nation continues to grapple with a long history of lack of accountability for violence against African Americans.

Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves said at a Sunday night press conference that the information at the time "does not say that it's racially motivated" and that the investigation was still active.

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"But as a chief of police, I do recognize the racial components of this case. I do recognize and understand the community's concern."

Charges were also filed Monday in a similar case in New York state, where a 20-year-old woman was shot dead.

Police in New York state said Kaylin Gillis had been fatally shot by a homeowner on Saturday night when she showed up with three others at the wrong address when trying to find a friend's house.

"While they were leaving the residence after they determined that they were at the wrong house, the subject came out on his porch for whatever reason and fired two shots, one of which struck the vehicle that Kaylin was in," said Jeffrey Murphy, the sheriff of Washington County, where the shooting took place.

The homeowner identified as the person who fired the shots, 65-year-old Kevin Monahan, was arrested Monday and charged with second-degree murder, according to the sheriff's office.

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By Andrew Chung

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. Supreme Court justices on Tuesday appeared ready to bolster the ability of employees to obtain accommodations at work for their religious practices in a case involving an evangelical Christian former mail carrier's claim of discrimination against the U.S. Postal Service.

The nine justices heard oral arguments in an appeal by Gerald Groff, a former mail carrier in Pennsylvania who was disciplined by the Postal Service after repeatedly failing to show up for assigned work shifts on Sundays, when he observes the Sabbath. While the justices signaled sympathy toward the issue of obtaining accommodations for religious reasons, they did not seem willing to automatically rule in Groff's favor.

Lower courts threw out Groff's lawsuit, finding that the Postal Service's refusal to exempt him from Sunday deliveries did not violate federal anti-discrimination law because it would place too much hardship on his co-workers and employer.

Some justices emphasized the "common ground" between Groff's attorneys and President Joe Biden's administration that businesses cannot deny accommodations under a federal anti-discrimination called Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as easily as a decades-old Supreme Court precedent might suggest.

Under Title VII, which prohibits employment discrimination based on religion and other factors including race, sex and national origin, employers must make allowances for a worker's religious observance or practices unless that would cause the business "undue hardship."

The Supreme Court in a 1977 case called Trans World Airlines v. Hardison determined that to be anything imposing more than a minor, or "de minimis," cost.

Conservative Justice Neil Gorsuch said, "If we were simply to say that some courts have taken this de minimis language rather seriously and no one before us defends it ... then maybe we could do some good day's work, and put a period at the end of it, by saying that that is not the law."

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Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar, defending the Postal Service for the administration, said she agreed in order to correct lower courts that are "led astray by that de minimis language."

Groff's attorneys had asked the Supreme Court to overturn the Hardison precedent and require companies to show a "significant difficulty or expense" before denying an accommodation.

The Supreme Court, with its 6-3 conservative majority, has a track record of expanding religious rights, often siding with Christian plaintiffs. Groff's case gives the court another chance to rule for a plaintiff claiming religious bias.

Groups representing some religions that are in the minority in the United States including Islam, Judaism and Hinduism backed Groff in the case, saying they are disproportionately denied religious accommodations, forcing them to choose between their religion and their jobs.

The dispute has also sparked debate over whether religious people are more legally deserving than others to have weekend days off from work. Unions representing postal workers have urged the justices to consider the hardship that religious accommodations have on co-workers who, for example, lose out on a day to rest or spend with family when they have to cover for shift gaps.

Liberal Justice Sonia Sotomayor emphasized the impact on other workers, noting that Groff's job required him to work as needed on Sundays.

"And he says, 'Well, now I'm not working Sunday and I'm not working religious holidays ... and it's not an undue burden to force the employer to have to give other employees greater work.'"

Conservative Justice Brett Kavanaugh noted that accommodations could burden other religious employees, including Catholics or Baptists, who would prefer Sunday off but are not compelled by religion to not work.

"It seems concerning that you're told, in effect, you don't get Sunday off even though you're religious. The other guy next to you gets Sunday off because he's religious but his religion gives him a little more benefit," Kavanaugh said.

The justices asked questions indicating that they were mulling how to provide lower courts with better guidance as to what might constitute an "undue burden" for businesses, including paying premium wages for a fill-in employee, or going shorthanded.

Groff worked as a "rural carrier associate" in Pennsylvania's Lancaster County, a job that required him to fill in as needed for absent career carriers, including on weekends.

The Postal Service in 2013, in a bid to remain profitable, contracted with Amazon.com to deliver packages, including on Sundays.

Groff failed to report for assigned Sunday shifts. Postal officials sought to accommodate Groff by attempting to facilitate shift swaps, but were not always successful. His absences caused tension among other carriers who had to cover his shifts, the Postal Service said. Groff received several disciplinary letters and resigned in 2019.

(Reporting by Andrew Chung; Editing by Will Dunham)
By John Kruzel

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday considered a bid by three whistleblowers to revive lawsuits accusing pharmacy operators of pocketing millions of taxpayer dollars by knowingly overbilling government health insurance programs for prescription drugs.

The justices heard arguments in an appeal by the whistleblowers of lower court rulings in favor of Safeway Inc, owned by Albertsons Companies Inc, and SuperValu Inc, part of United Natural Foods Inc.

The litigation was filed under a law called the False Claims Act that lets individuals sue on behalf of the U.S. government when they have evidence of fraud against federal programs. The whistleblowers, seeking monetary damages, accused the companies of offering prescription drugs at discounted prices to most customers paying out of pocket, while improperly charging higher rates to the government.

Government healthcare programs reimburse pharmacies for dispensing covered drugs to beneficiaries.

At issue is whether companies can avoid liability for fraud by showing that an "objectively reasonable" reading of the law supported their conduct - regardless of whether they truly believed that interpretation at the time of their alleged wrongdoing.

Tejinder Singh, a lawyer for the whistleblowers, told the justices that embracing this legal standard "would permit some of the worst offenders to escape liability."

Some conservative justices signaled concern that a ruling in favor of the whistleblowers could lead to judges being asked to determine whether legal advice is true or false - a notion Justice Brett Kavanaugh balked at.

"Obviously, if you say (to the government) it's $20 and in fact you're charging everyone $10, okay, false. I get that. But if it's based on a legal understanding, it's a little hard for me to say your legal view is false," Kavanaugh said.

The whistleblowers said federal law requires pharmacies to bill the Medicare and Medicaid programs at the same prices charged to the general public under a rate known as a pharmacy's "usual and customary" price. They also said both companies knew they were defrauding the government and worked to conceal their pricing practices.

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The companies fended off the whistleblower lawsuits by claiming that Medicare and Medicaid billing requirements were unclear and that their practices were supported by a reasonable reading of the law.

"What the court has to recognize is that we deal in a situation where there's no guidance - we have an inherently ambiguous term," Carter Phillips, a lawyer for the supermarkets, told the justices, referring to the "usual and customary" price. "We used what was by all accounts - and is undisputed before this court - an absolutely, objectively reasonable interpretation."

The Chicago-based 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals sided with the companies. The court said the pharmacy operators could not be held responsible for fraud given the "objectively reasonable" interpretation of the law in their favor - even if they did not actually believe that interpretation and intended to deceive the government.

President Joe Biden's administration backed the whistleblowers, arguing that the 7th Circuit's ruling undermined the False Claims Act.

"The one bedrock requirement is (companies) should not say things they do not believe to be true," said Malcolm Stewart, a lawyer for the administration. "Even if they think there is a reasonable argument down the road that it is true, if their best judgment is the statement we are making is not true they shouldn't make it."

A ruling is due by the end of June.

(Reporting by John Kruzel; Editing by Will Dunham)
Alex Cochran, Deseret News

Before Utah had fully realized its potential as a dynamic, robust economy, it was known as the cultural home of mommy blogging in the 2000s and 2010s. And as Utahs economy has continued to cement itself as the top-ranked state economy for 15 years and counting, so has, well, the influence of the states digital content creators.

Influencers and momfluencers  women who commoditize their motherhood online have long evolved past the days of mommy blogging. The global influencer market was worth more than $16 billion last year.

These highlighted, filtered influencers are not so different from the business leaders and tech founders who have come to define the states economy. They secure lucrative brand deals, grow successful companies and promote their own products in extremely competitive markets.

Rachel Parcell (@rachparcell), Cara Loren Van Brocklin (@caraloren), Hannah Neeleman (@BallerinaFarm) and hundreds of other women who started as bloggers and influencers have transformed themselves into moguls. And yet these influencers drive, technical skill sets and business sense arent perceived in the same way as the tech execs of Silicon Slopes, even though the timing of Utahs tech boom and the rise of Utahs bloggers and influencers follow the same pattern starting in the 2000s.

The old-school business leaders have something that has eluded many of the influencers-turned-moguls cohort  prestige.

Kathryn Jezer-Morton is a sociologist and writer for New York Magazine with a newsletter called Brooding that inspects momfluencers, online parenthood and modern family life. She spoke with me about Utahs unique position of power in the world of online influencing.

Theres so much money in it. If money is what makes something legitimate, its definitely legitimate. This is a massive economic phenomenon, and Utah is at the center. For influencing, Utah is the Rome of the Roman Empire. Thats where so many trends were born, a lot of the things that are now considered normal started there  like what it means to be a mom online.

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Jennifer Hanks is a blogger and an influencer (@cocoscaravan) who lives in Utah. Through social media, she uses her experience as a widow and mother to young twin boys to help her followers navigate grief and motherhood.

She decided to monetize her social media account and work with brands after her late husband died four years ago. I started off slowly, but now its a full-time business and I get to stay home with my kids and support my family while sharing my story.

Part of the reason why Hanks moved back to Utah was to tap into Utahs fast-moving economy and the Silicon Slopes community. Utah is the place to be as an influencer because of how many people start their own businesses here and are excited to make connections and collaborate.

Meg Miles (@meg_miles) is a health and fitness influencer and owner of Wilma, a fitness training app for moms. Miles began posting on Instagram  a place of community  as a personal trainer before building her fitness app. Now, she markets her business on Instagram without having to take on content creation work outside of her own brand marketing.

She says, I feel like Im in all three worlds of Utahs economy  tech, entrepreneurship and influencing. Im heavily involved in the development of my app, I primarily market my business on social media, and I do some pure influencing through affiliate links as a way to organically share the things Im loving.

As a consumer of social media, Ive often wondered how Utah can support so, so many successful influencers. Surely Utahs economic environment and tech investment has assisted influencers thriving through the monetization of their likes and likenesses  in becoming successful CEOs behind the filters and captions. But its not such a logical leap to consider that Utahs tech companies have thrived in here, in part, because of the work of the influencers.

Cydni Tetro, the co-founder and president of Utahs Women Tech Council, told me, When youre building an industry or doing a specific type of work, the thing that you crave is surrounding yourself with people who give you insights, tools and techniques on the things youre doing to build your business. As you look at the Utah landscape, you have a high concentration of influencers, technology companies and consumer companies. Whats cool about Utah is that its a diverse economic engine that has the ability to attract and drive these large industries so they can overlap, collaborate, and encourage growth.

Ryan Boswell is the senior director for growth for Silicon Slopes. He says: Influencers now, rather than pushing brands, are becoming brands. Creators are at the core of Silicon Slopes mission, which is supporting entrepreneurs and startups.

He hopes Silicon Slopes can have more events targeted to content creators as part of its Marketing Chapter. We recognize the influencer industry and it will be part of what propels Utah forward. We want to convene and connect influencers with startups to bring new innovation to new audiences moving forward.

Some believe the tech world has been slow to embrace influencers and creatives as their own. Gabrielle Blair is an original mommy blogger at DesignMom.com who co-founded Alt Summit, a conference in its 13th year, for women entrepreneurs, content creators and the people who want to connect with them. She told me she believes the reason for the reticence is patriarchy and misogyny  its not super complicated.

The tech industry really doesnt acknowledge us or understand what we do. And then when they need us, like when they need a platform to launch from, they dont value the work enough to pay competitively.

Alt Summit 2023 took place in March in Palm Springs, California, and Blair tells me that Microsoft attended so conference attendees could beta-test a new product, similar to what Pinterest famously did at Alt Summit in 2010. You cant get more tech than Microsoft, but is the tech world going to be watching? Probably not. But marketing departments probably are.

Seventy-seven percent of influencers who monetize their content are women and although these women own LLCs, corporations and multimillion-dollar companies, neither consumers nor industry leaders, nor sometimes even creators themselves, take them as seriously as their tech counterparts. Women have created a whole new industry  a new way of marketing and doing business made out of whole cloth  and it is still dismissed.

In her December 2022 newsletter, Maybe Were Too Hard on Influencers, Jezer-Morton writes: What if, instead of dismissing influencers categorically, we decided to understand exactly what it is that they do?

With every post, they have to triangulate between four competing priorities: inscrutable platform algorithms, brand partners, audience preferences and their own sense of personal authenticity. Meanwhile, brand agreements rely on the contents performance, and saying something off-brand could mean losing a deal. When a familys income is on the line, youd better believe momfluencers are doing more than just posting cute photos.

Related

Influencers are not like celebrities because part of the allure of celebrity is withholding, unlike influencers, who have attained their status through sharing their lives, or at least commoditized versions of it. Its a vulnerable place to be when your face and persona is your companys greatest asset. This is why the savviest of influencers diversify their platforms to create their own products, brands and companies. It shores up their influence to enter into more traditional markets and business sectors.

These more traditional business models vary as widely as capitalism will allow. For example, India Blue Severe (@indyblue_) started blogging at age 11 and by the time she was in high school, she had grown a large, loyal Instagram following. Four years ago, she and her business partner started the brand Lonely Ghost, a streetwear clothing company with a grocery store-themed brick-and-mortar store at The Riverwoods in Provo and a perfectly pithy catchphrase, I love you say it back.

Her oral history of The Lonely Ghost Story says, We started from square one. No investors, no connections, no money. Just a lot of ideas. One thing we did have? A wild, uncontrollable, international, unexplainably powerful influence ...

She knew she had an opportunity to create something tangible, to represent this feeling that we all shared.

I used to have a hard time taking influencers at their words when they would talk so intimately about their communities or, really, their followers. As Ive tried to take influencers more seriously, I now stand in awe of the finesse and authenticity with which they ask their followers to write a check for the tangible businesses they build and then promote. It takes buy-in, and followers really do buy in.

Despite the devoted followers and wealth that Utahs influencers have continued to amass through their creativity and practically 24/7 jobs, they are still often met with side-eyed discomfort. The relationship between Utahs influencers and its dynamic entrepreneurial world is doubly complicated because of how people view influencers generally, and sometimes also how influencers view themselves.

At the beginning of my interview with influencer Jennifer Hanks, I admitted to her that I had a difficult time getting influencers to speak with me for this story. We chatted about why that could be: Its nerve-wracking talking about being an influencer because you get judged  some people dont like that you make money this way. They think its easy, but they dont see the meetings and time and work that goes into a single post.

Although influencing has been what Hanks calls a blessing in her life, she feels there is a stigma attached to the job. I feel embarrassed; even the world influencer sounds silly. I say Im a content creator or that I work in social media. I sometimes feel like I have to defend myself and justify the money I make because people dont take it seriously.

Like other parts of our online lives, part of the problem with the way influencing is viewed could be that we dont know how to talk about it in an analog, nuts-and-bolts sort of way. That might be why influencers themselves dont know how to talk about what exactly they do. They call themselves content creators or digital media marketers or they avoid labeling themselves at all and instead reference building community. Both of the influencers I interviewed for this story were uncomfortable with calling themselves influencers.

In her newsletter, Jezer-Morton proposes: I wonder if our resistance to ascribing any real skill to influencing has to do with our own shame about the way we consume the content itself. So many of us (myself extremely included) feel uncomfortable with the way sharing platforms have us in a headlock, and its in that compromised position, awash in self-loathing at our inability to wrestle free, that we often spend our free moments scrolling.

As we enter the second decade of influencing as we know it, there is some responsibility as consumers to understand how the sausage is made. Maybe the bad taste in your mouth after scrolling social media doesnt come from the people who are posting, but from a lack of understanding, reflection and acknowledgment of how you got there in the first place.

To suggest that we might engage in disentangling our personal cynicisms and cultural biases so that influencers can get their due feels like a glib suggestion for a concluding thought. But taking the work that these women do seriously  their valuable skills, instincts for innovation and commitment to adapting to new technologies  theres nothing glib about that.
Manatee County commissioners have voted to replace District 3 Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge as chairman.

The decision came after the board voted to ask County Attorney Bill Clague to negotiate with Manatee-Sarasota Building Industry Association CEO Jon Mast to replace Lee Washington as interim county administrator.

Commissioners voiced dissatisfaction with communication from those who have served in the county administrator role during Van Ostenbridge's tenure as chairman as reason for the change.

In case you missed it: Hopes responds to resignation, describes separation from Manatee County as 'mutual'

"We need to do a complete transition from the top down," Commissioner Jason Bearden said. "It's not a point of whether or not our chair is doing a great job as chair because he is. But where I'm at with it is, because staff has been trained a certain way, they only report to certain commissioners."

Baugh accepts chairmanship role

Commissioners removed Van Ostenbridge in a narrow 4 to 3 vote at the end of a heated debate where some commissioners expressed frustration over a lack of cooperation with county staff, stating they show preferential treatment toward the now-former chair.

Van Ostenbridge, and commissioners George Kruse and Mike Rahn voted against Bearden's motion. Van Ostenbridge and Rahn left the meeting after the vote, although both returned in time to vote on a proposal to create a collection development advisory board for Manatee County libraries.

Baugh assumed her third term as chair of the Manatee County Commission after Van Ostenbridge handed her the gavel after the vote. She last held the role in 2021 before Van Ostenbridge was appointed.

Members of the public often called for her resignation from the seat that year over her role in planning a COVID-19 vaccine site that only served residents of Lakewood Ranch. Baugh settled her case with the Florida Commission on Ethics earlier this year.

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"I realize that this board, we've been through a lot, and I realize that we're not always informed of things the way we should be, I have complained many times about it," Baugh said. "I don't like feeling sometimes like the chairman runs the show then we find out about it after the fact, the decisions are made instead of bringing things to the board."

Mast tapped for interim acting administrator role

Manatee County Commissioners are targeting Manatee-Sarasota Building Industry Association CEO Jon Mast to replace Lee Washington as Interim County Administrator.

Washington has served in the role since former Administrator Scott Hopes resigned in February.

Mast has been rumored as a preferred candidate to permanently fill the role, but a permanent county administrator would be required to move to Manatee County within a short timeframe to serve in the role. Mast lives in Sarasota County.

Mast is a Florida-certified general contractor and has been involved in the building industry for more than 35 years, according to his LinkedIn profile. He has owned several companies in the construction industry that offer contractor, remodeler, land developer, architectural principle, designer, and real estate agent services.

He also worked with Sarasota County Government in the Planning and Development Services Department prior to his role with the association, serving as General Manager of Business Operations and the Manager of Land Development, his profile states.

Reinshuttle speaks out: Fired Manatee employee says Scott Hopes told him to suppress sexual harassment claim

Mast was suggested by Commissioner Mike Rahn, who previously served as president of the organization and serves as a "Life Director." County Commissioner Vanessa Baugh's husband, Don Baugh, is also a current board member.

Commissioners voted 6 to 1 to direct County Attorney Bill Clague to negotiate with Mast on behalf of the board and will consider appointing him to the interim role at a future public meeting. Washington would revert to his former role as Community and Veteran's Services director.

Mast became involved in county affairs in January with discussions with county staff over proposed changes to the Manatee County's Land Development Code, according to county records. Those proposals have not yet been discussed with commissioners publicly.

At-large Commissioner George Kruse was the lone nay vote on the decision. He said the move is unnecessary as the process of hiring a permanent administrator could be resolved within months.

"Regarding Commissioner Kruse's comments, I just don't feel as if I've got what I need to do my job effectively with the current situation that we are in, so that's the reason why I am going to be in support of this," At-Large Commissioner Jason Bearden said in response.

This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Commissioners vote Van Ostenbridge out as Manatee County Chairman
Russian President Vladimir Putin visits the headquarters of the "Dnieper" army group in the Kherson Region, Russian-controlled Ukraine, in this still image taken from handout video released on April 18, 2023. Kremlin.ru/Handout via REUTERS

Russian President Vladimir Putin made a rare visit to occupied Ukraine.

The Kremlin said Putin visited on April 17, but video footage seemed to refute that.

Putin is seen saying Orthodox Easter, held on April 16, was "coming up," suggesting the visit was earlier.

Vladimir Putin made a rare visit to occupied Ukraine, but a verbal slip by the Russian president casts doubt on when the trip actually took place.

The Kremlin said on Tuesday that Putin visited a military headquarters in Russian-occupied Ukraine, amid Russia's ongoing invasion of the country.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters that the visit took place on Monday, April 17, state media outlet TASS reported.

But a comment made by Putin in footage released by the Kremlin hinted that it was likely filmed days earlier.

The BBC reported that the Kremlin initially released footage in which Putin says that Easter is "coming up," but then edited the video to remove Putin saying those words.

Russian Orthodox Easter was on April 16.

The trip was Putin's second recorded visit to Ukraine since Russia invaded the country in February 2022. He previously visited the Russian-occupied city of Mariupol and Crimea region in March.

Putin's more secretive movements contrast with those of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who has made multiple trips to the front line since the invasions started.

The Kremlin said Putin visited a military headquarters in the Kherson region and a national guard headquarters in the Luhansk region. Both regions are partially occupied by Russia.

It also said that Putin attended a military command meeting and heard reports about what was happening in the Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions, which Russia has annexed.

The Kremlin pushed back on suggestions the footage had been taken earlier, with Peskov saying on Tuesday that Putin's mention of Easter had been misinterpreted.

"The fact is that our Easter lasts 40 days, we continue celebrating it, now we have Easter week," he said, according to TASS. "That's why it is erroneous to pay attention to that phrase and make hypotheses about something that was never real. The trip took place yesterday."

Read the original article on Business Insider
In a joint press conference on Monday with Ukrainian prosecutor general Andriy Kostin, Attorney General Merrick Garland announced that the U.S. would take additional legal measures to combat Russian war criminals.

The Justice Department will send an experienced prosecutor to The Hague to be based at the European Union Agency for Criminal Justice Cooperation. That appointment will provide greater DOJ resources to international partners fighting the Russian war machine. Additionally, the DOJ will send a resident legal adviser to the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv to work on a variety of complex justice-sector issues. Criminal-justice reform is generally required of countries who want to attain NATO and EU membership.

We have a very long memory, as I know that Ukraine does as well, and these things tend to not work out very well for the people who commit these crimes and are prosecuted, Garland explained when asked what the time line is for prosecuting Russian war criminals.

I wouldnt expect for anything to happen tomorrow, except for [war criminals] who are found in Ukraine or are found in the United States, but in the long-run we expect justice to be done, Garland added.

The new DOJ measures follow Garlands trip to Ukraine last month, during which he signed a memorandum of understanding that formalizes U.S. cooperation with the Ukraine Joint Investigative Team (JIT), which is investigating core international crimes committed in Ukraine. The JIT comprises Ukraine, Poland, Lithuania, Slovakia, Estonia, Romania, and Latvia. The Office of the Prosecutor at the International Criminal Court is also involved. The experienced prosecutor whom the DOJ will detail to the Hague will assist the JIT in its investigations.

Our Ukrainian colleagues are also assisting us with our investigations that are led by the [DOJs] War Crimes Accountability Team into potential war crimes over which the United States possesses criminal jurisdiction, explained Garland. These include crimes in which American citizens have been harmed or killed. He added that with respect to crimes against Americans, which we have our own jurisdiction for, we have been making good progress with respect to some suspects. That investigation is going very well.

Story continues

Deputy attorney general Lisa Monaco, who also took part in the press conference, echoed Garlands promise. Our resolve at the Justice Department has never beens stronger in this work. We are dedicating more resources to ensuring accountability and to combating those that facilitate the Russian war machine, she explained. She added that both she and Kostin will be appearing in front of Congress this week to discuss what U.S. and Ukrainian law enforcement are doing and what more can be done.

Kostin thanked the U.S. for its efforts and reiterated that Ukraine remains committed to criminal-justice reform. He also highlighted the joint effort entitled Task Force KleptoCapture  a team of prosecutors, agents, analysts, translators, and others  that continues to bring prosecutions and effect seizures against sanctioned enablers of the Kremlin and the Russian military. We are intensifying our efforts to freeze the Wagner Groups overseas assets to deprive the group of the resources to finance its criminal activities in Ukraine and worldwide, Kostin explained.

Congress has granted the DOJ the authority to transfer certain assets seized from Russian oligarchs for use in rebuilding Ukraine.

In terms of additional cooperation, Kostin said that Ukraine would welcome learning programs sponsored by the DOJ on how to combat cyber crime as well as the unlawful deportation of Ukrainian children. We are talking extensively about the possibility of sharing intelligence information to investigate and prosecute specific war crimes committed by Russians, Kostin added.

To Kostin, the overall goal of U.S.Ukrainian cooperation in this regard is to strengthen a global coalition for justice so there are no safe havens for perpetrators anywhere in the world.

The prosecutor general also answered a question about whether the recent leak of Pentagon documents had affected the cooperation between the two countries. Some of the documents leaked by a Massachusetts airman, who has now been arrested and charged under the Espionage Act, contained intelligence on the war in Ukraine.

With regard to our accountability efforts, this leak has no influence on our work, explained Kostin. We are united . . . to making all perpetrators accountable for all war crimes committed on Ukrainian soil against Ukraine and against Ukrainians.

More from National Review
Veterans Affairs officials will launch a new five-year study into Gulf War Syndrome in an effort to better define and explain the symptoms for the mysterious illness.

Its a move that veterans groups say is overdue but also potentially beneficial to tens of thousands of Gulf War veterans. As many as 250,000 individuals who served in operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm in the early 1990s have reported a series of problems including joint pain, fatigue, rashes, memory issues and digestive problems, with no clear cause.

The new study  a partnership with the National Institutes of Health  will involve about 75 veterans who agreed to be monitored at federal health facilities for two weeks. The goal is to look at multiple body systems affected by Gulf War Illness and how these systems operate.

30 Years On, Veterans Recall the Desert Storm Air War

The causes of the illness have been under debate for more than three decades. Last year, a study by University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center researchers asserted that exposure to sarin gas  released into the atmosphere when Iraqi chemical weapons caches were bombed during the conflict  were to blame for the myriad symptoms.

But federal officials have not accepted those findings as fact, and veterans who file disability claims based on Gulf War Illness symptoms face numerous paperwork challenges to prove a connection between their time in service and failing health.

Shane Liermann, deputy national legislative director at Disabled American Veterans, called the new study significant in potentially outlining clearer guidelines for filing those claims and seeking medical treatment for the illness.

The move also comes nine months after President Joe Biden signed into law the Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act, better known as the PACT Act. The legislation provides presumptive benefits for a host of unusual illnesses connected to burn pit exposure in Iraq and Afghanistan, Agent Orange exposure in Vietnam and radiation exposure at various military sites in the 1960s and 1970s.

Story continues

The law also reforms how VA handles other toxic exposure claims, with the goal of easing bureaucratic rules for recognizing new illnesses for medical care or disability payouts.

This collaboration will bring together experts who will meticulously investigate the underlying causes of Gulf War Illness symptoms, VA Chief Research and Development Officer Rachel Ramoni said in a statement. With the help of the veterans who volunteer for the study, researchers will lay the groundwork for care that will meaningfully improve the lives of the hundreds of thousands of veterans living with this disease.

Information on how to volunteer for the study is available through the NIH website.
In recent weeks, Harris has delivered significant speeches before Black Americans and abroad, from Africa to Nashville to New York, the clear proxy for the administration on key issues like racial justice.

The role of Vice President Kamala Harris has been the subject of political fodder since the day she took office.

Many praise Harris for her historic role as the first Black, first woman and first South Asian vice president in the United States and her work to date. Others are critical in dissecting the former California U.S. senators role and whether or not she is an effective enough vice president.

Vice President Kamala Harris listens during the start of an April 12 meeting with the Biden administrations Task Force on Reproductive Health Care Access in the Roosevelt Room of the White House. She is representing the administration in Black spaces on racial justice and other key issues. (Photo: Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Examining Harris role as it relates to the White Houses ability to reach Black communities, political scientist and Fordham University professor Christina M. Greer noted in a previous interview with theGrio: Kamala Harris was missing for a lot of Black people for a very long time, and they were wondering what she was doing, what she was being utilized to do.

While Harris is leading the White Houses response on broader issues like reproductive rights, abortion and clean energy, the vice president is also a clear proxy for the Biden-Harris administration in Black spaces and on key issues like racial justice  something of particular notice in recent months.

On Friday, the vice president delivered a speech at Al Sharptons annual National Action Network Convention in New York City, where Harris condemned Republican extremists for attacking hard-won freedoms like voting and LGBTQ+ rights and banning Black history books as an attempt to erase Americas full history.

During her remarks, she notably garnered applause and laughter from the mostly Black audience when she used a phrase known well in the Black community: Dont fall for the okey-doke.

Harris speech at NAN comes after back-to-back outreach efforts by the White House to Black communities, who played a crucial role in the election of President Joe Biden and his vice president  and will be just as crucial as the administration gears up for a soon-to-be-announced 2024 reelection campaign.

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Vice President Kamala Harris delivers the keynote address April 14 at the 2023 National Action Network Convention at the Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel. She garnered applause and laughter when she used the phrase Dont fall for the okey-doke. (Photo: Johnny Nunez/WireImage)

Political commentator Reecie Colbert told theGrio that while Harris doesnt always win the day on Twitter or on Instagram among critics on social media, when it comes to the voters, I think her presence is undeniably an asset to the ticket.

Colbert praised the vice presidents recent and unexpected trip to Nashville, Tennessee, just hours after Republicans expelled two young, Black state lawmakers for joining thousands of demonstrators inside the state capitol to protest gun violence.

While on the ground, Harris met with Tennessee leaders and delivered a fiery speech at Fisk University, an HBCU, condemning so-called Republican state lawmakers for attempting to silence the Tennessee Three and the voices they were channeling.

That, she declared, is not a democracy.

Colbert, who hosts The Reecie Colbert Show on Sirius XM, said it was excellent agility on the part of [Harris] and her office to quickly travel to Nashville.

The gravity of the situation with what we saw  fascist, racist behavior from the Republicans really demanded such a quick turnaround in a response, she said.

As for the speech itself, Harris did not read from a teleprompter, something Colbert contended made the vice presidents remarks appear incredibly authentic. She said it reminded her of Harris stand-out moments as a U.S. senator.

She didnt take it as slow as she has been doing as vice president. It was much more from the heart and much more forceful, said Colbert, who noted Harris had been a little toned down and muted in some of her responses over the past two years.

President Joe Biden (center) delivers remarks on reproductive rights in the Roosevelt Room of the White House in July 2022 as Vice President Kamala Harris (left) and Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra (right) listen in. (Photo: Alex Wong/Getty Images)

Activist Melanie Campbell also gave Harris high marks for her Tennessee speech, telling theGrio it was a great utilization of the bully pulpit, so that America knows whats going on in Tennessee could happen to a town near you.

Campbell, who serves as head of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation and its Black Womens Roundtable, said the vice presidents speech appeared well received by young people, including those on her staff.

Another Harris speech that garnered approval from Black leaders was her remarks at the funeral of Tyre Nichols in February. Nichols, a Black man, was beaten to death by Memphis police during a traffic stop.

Harris passionately assailed the repeated occurrence of deadly police encounters with Black citizens and called on Congress to pass the long-sought George Floyd Justice in Policing Act.

And in March, Harris garnered significant press on her trip to Africa after delivering an emotional speech in Accra, Ghana, about the impacts of the transatlantic slave trade. Before her remarks, she had toured a slave castle, where enslaved Africans were held before they were loaded onto ships and sold in the Americas.

Vice President Kamala Harris addresses young people gathered on Black Star Square during her March visit to Accra, Ghana. (Photo: Misper Apawu/Pool/ AFP via Getty Images)

The horror of what happened here must always be remembered, said Harris. It cannot be denied. It must be taught. History must be learned.

Campbell said that while it is not new hearing the vice president deliver such passionate speeches about race, racial justice and other issues important to Black communities, there is something significant about the sequence of these recent remarks and the current political battles that exist.

There are so many attacks coming our way that the role shes playing  is really resonating, she explained. It was very beneficial for the administration as they move forward with moving their agenda and going into a presidential election cycle that starts any day now.

Colbert said the timing could not be better for Harris as its very important that she really gets her swagger going for 2024 because the daggers are out for her. Still, she says, a lot of the negative commentary about the vice president and her absence over the years has been unwarranted.

If you look at the historical lens of vice president, she is a lot more prominent, said Colbert, who noted that, to date, Harris has done hundreds of events.

President Biden has made a point to call it the Biden-Harris administration, she added. I dont recall any other administration making that kind of distinction.

Campbell said the Biden-Harris White House shows they are continuing to stay committed to critical issues, including police reform, voting rights and abortion. She believes it will yield dividends in the 2024 presidential election.

At the end of the day, she said, it is about whether we have a democracy or not.

Gerren Keith Gaynor

Gerren Keith Gaynor is the Managing Editor of Politics and White House Correspondent at theGrio. He is based in Washington, D.C.

TheGrio is FREE on your TV via Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku and Android TV. Also, please download theGrio mobile apps today!

The post Is Vice President Kamala Harris having a moment with Black voters? appeared first on TheGrio.
Car thefts in Washington state have been happening at a faster pace than most other states nationwide. Now the Evergreen State is also inching closer to being the state with the most vehicle thefts in America. The News Tribune previously reported that in 2022 Washington saw the third-highest number of vehicle thefts in the U.S., at 46,939, according to a report on thefts from the National Insurance Crime Bureau.

Every month, thousands of vehicles are snagged off the streets of Pierce and King counties, the Puget Sound Auto Theft Task Force reports.

Over 1 million vehicles were stolen in 2022, equating to an estimated $8.9 billion worth of vehicle losses from thefts. Read more: https://t.co/jY8vpJQkVu pic.twitter.com/bTZTpRkzUW  NICB (@insurancecrime) March 13, 2023

But now, a new analysis shows that Washington has the second-highest rate of thefts per 1,000 vehicles. Vehicle history check platform carVertical reviewed the data from the NICB and found that for every 1,000 registered vehicles in Washington state, 15 were stolen in 2022. This equates to around one in every 67 registered vehicles stolen.

In addition to the NICB, carVertical collected data from government registries, insurance companies and other databases to uncover the total number of registered vehicles per state.

The Evergreen State is tied for second with Missouri, both of which are eclipsed by Colorados 28 vehicles stolen per 1,000 automobiles. California, which had around 202,685 vehicles stolen, had a slightly lower theft rate of 14 per 1,000 vehicles.

On top of the theft rates, carVertical also found that the nations top five most-stolen vehicles are:

Chevrolet Pick-Up  48,206 stolen

Ford Pick-Up  47,999 stolen

Honda Civic  31,673 stolen

Honda Accord  30,274 stolen

Toyota Camry  17,270 stolen

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In April, Pierce County saw a slight increase in car thefts, at 771 compared to Marchs 748, per the Puget Sound ATTFs report. Law enforcement representatives previously told The News Tribune that trends on social media encouraging people to steal cars have directly impacted Washingtons surge in stolen cars.

Vehicles that are the most susceptible to thefts include models from Hyundai and Kia. Over the past few months, the Puget Sound ATTF has partnered with local law enforcement agencies to give owners of at-risk vehicles free anti-theft devices. Hyundai is also offering free software upgrades to some of its vehicles that install better anti-theft protective measures.
It wasnt yet set up for the tornadoes that hit the region Saturday, but a new system of outdoor sirens for tornado warnings is being installed in St. Clair County and will be ready later this year.

Work on the new sirens began last week, according to Herb Simmons, director of the St. Clair County Emergency Management Agency.

The county signed a $2.49 million contract with Acoustic Technology Inc. last year for the project.

Were putting in all new ones, even the ones that were out there, were replacing them with updated versions, Simmons said Monday.

Federal relief funds from the American Rescue Plan will pay for the sirens.

Simmons said the work on the new sirens began in the southern part of the county, where there were no sirens.

Simmons did not have a final completion date for the new sirens but noted the contractor had some delays because it had not received parts that had been ordered.

The current siren system, such as the one in Belleville, sounded the alarm Saturday before the storm hit the city.

The sirens are designed to warn people who are outside and not for people indoors, Simmons said.

Simmons recommends residents sign up for a warning service such as CodeRED, get a weather radio and monitor media reports. St. Clair County and Belleville are two of the area governments that offer the free CodeRED service. You can go to the websites for the county and city to sign up for the service.

The National Weather Service has said eight tornadoes hit the St. Louis metropolitan area on Saturday, with four in the metro-east and four in Missouri, according to a preliminary assessment.

No injuries were reported but the tornadoes knocked down trees and caused property damage and power outages.

BND reporter Lexi Cortes contributed information for this article.
Students draped in their school colors crowded in front of Staley High School Tuesday for a 1,500-person march to show solidarity for their 16-year-old classmate, who was shot in the head while ringing the doorbell of a Northland residence.

Ralph Yarl, 16, was released from the hospital just days after allegedly being shot twice by an 84-year-old man whose home he mistakenly approached Thursday to pick up his brothers.

The shooting garnered national attention following reports that Yarl, who is Black, was allegedly shot twice by the white homeowner, Andrew Lester, 84. Lester was initially released by Kansas City police last week shortly after being detained on suspicion of aggravated assault.

On Tuesday afternoon, Lester surrendered and was booked, nearly 24 hours after being charged with two felonies, first-degree assault and armed criminal action. He was soon released on bond.

Student Landyn Goldberg photographed the crowd Tuesday at Staley High Schools Unity Walk, held in honor of classmate Ralph Yarl, 16, who was shot in the head while attempting to pick up his siblings.

Yarls classmates in the Black Student Union organized a walk to honor him as he continues on his long road to recovery.

The walk started at 10 a.m. Tuesday at the bus loop by the schools student entrance, according to social media posts.

As more and more peers joined, the event turned into a sea of the school colors  black, green and blue  to honor Yarl. Many hoisted handmade signs proclaiming We walk for Ralph.Others carried signs that read, We love you Ralph and Stop the hate!

Student Fallyn Kowalski photographed the crowd Tuesday at Staley High Schools Unity Walk, held in honor of classmate Ralph Yarl, 16, who was shot in the head while attempting to pick up his siblings.

An estimated 1,500 students turned out, according to Susan Hiland, a spokeswoman for the North Kansas City School District.

Chants of One Falcon, One Family echoed throughout the crowd. Students also led cries of Justice for Ralph, pleading that law enforcement hold the 84-year-old accountable.

Superintendent Dan Clemens said earlier that the district was devastated to learn what happened to Yarl.

Student Fallyn Kowalski photographed the crowd Tuesday at Staley High Schools Unity Walk, held in honor of classmate Ralph Yarl, 16, who was shot in the head while attempting to pick up his siblings.

Yarl is an excellent student and talented musician. He maintains a stellar GPA while taking mostly college level courses, Clemens wrote in a statement Monday.

While he loves science and hopes to pursue that career path, his passion is music. Thankfully, we know he is now recovering alongside family.

Story continues

Meara Mitchell, a former teacher of Yarl, called him the utmost example of how you want a young man to carry himself in this world.

The district said additional resources are available for students who need help at Staley High School this week.

Student Fallyn Kowalski photographed the crowd Tuesday at Staley High Schools Unity Walk, held in honor of classmate Ralph Yarl, 16, who was shot in the head while attempting to pick up his siblings.

Shocking, disgusting and horribly tragic

Yarls shooting sent many of his Staley High School peers reeling, according to interviews with The Star over the weekend.

Savannah Mabery, 16, is in Yarls AP Government class. His brothers are in fifth grade, like hers, she said in a prior interview with The Star.

Hes so smart. Hes really nice. Hes really quiet, she said, describing the shooting as shocking, disgusting and horribly tragic.

Its literally 2023 and this is still happening. He just went to the wrong house and rang the doorbell, Mabery said.

Another classmate, Jorge Sainz, 16, said the shooting left him feeling as if he had less freedom than hed previously thought.

17-year-old Yorwin Deng, agreed, saying he doesnt feel as safe in his neighborhood anymore. He told The Star that its hard to believe this happened to Yarl, who avoids conflict and never looks for trouble.

On a walk to a friends house after Yarl was shot, Deng made sure to pull his hood down.

All he did was ring a doorbell, said Sainz.

The Stars Anna Spoerre contributed to this report.
Cosmonaut Sergey Prokopyev performing a spacewalk outside the Zvezda service module on August 15, 2018.

Two cosmonauts are getting ready to venture outside the International Space Station (ISS) on Tuesday night for some orbital maintenance work.

Commander Sergey Prokopyev and Flight Engineer Dmitri Petelin are scheduled to perform their spacewalk at 9:30 p.m. ET on Tuesday to move a radiator from one side of the ISS to the other. The extravehicular activity will be broadcast live on NASA TV, as well as the space agencys website. You can also tune into the action through the feed below. The live feed will begin at 9:00 p.m. ET.

Read more



NASA Live: Official Stream of NASA TV

The spacewalk is set to last for around six hours and 40 minutes. Cosmonauts Prokopyev and Petelin will be tasked with moving a radiator, or heat exchanger, from the space stations Rassvet module to the Nauka science module.

The newly installed European robotic arm will assist with the task, with Roscosmos Flight Engineer Andrey Fedyaev commanding it from the space station interior. The pair will don their Orlan spacesuits, exiting through the Poisk airlock and making their way over to the Earth-facing side of the ISS.

This is the cosmonauts second spacewalk together. In November 2022, Prokopyev and Petelin were unable to go on a spacewalk to relocate the radiator due to a spacesuit malfunction. Prokopyevs spacesuit had faulty pumps connected to its cooling system, rendering it unusable for an extravehicular activity. Hopefully the pair have better luck with their spacesuits this time around.

For more spaceflight in your life, follow us on Twitter and bookmark Gizmodos dedicated Spaceflight page.

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Sign up for Gizmodo's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Click here to read the full article.
WATERBURY  Where in Vermont is there a cannabis dispensary, museum, CBD hemp farm, restaurant, music venue, and equity fund manager all in one? Waterbury's Zenbarn Farms.

"Zenbarn Farms is a cannabis destination and experience," said co-owner Marlena Tucker-Fishman.

Founded in April 2020  on the cannabis-themed holiday 4/20  Zenbarn Farms started with the mission of providing CBD products to people struggling with mental health during the thick of the pandemic. CBD is a cannabis ingredient derived from hemp that does not cause a "high" sensation by itself, but can have various other psychological benefits.

Zenbarn's CBD tinctures, edibles, and topicals are designed to promote calmness, sleep, and focus, among other benefits.

Marlena Tucker-Fishman is co-owner of Zenbarn Farms, a Waterbury-based cannabis dispensary, museum, CBD hemp farm, restaurant, music venue, and equity fund manager.

"It's done wonders for my chronic ankle pain," Tucker-Fishman said about her products. "And it's very fulfilling when more and more people who come through the door are sharing similar experiences."

In November 2022, Zenbarn launched its dispensary, selling Vermont-grown cannabis with varying levels of THC, a chemical in cannabis that induces the feeling of "being high."

Zenbarn Farms sells CBD oil from Burlington-based producer Pepper Lee CBD.

The Cannabis Generation Equity Fund

On Juneteenth of 2021, Tucker-Fishman helped found the Cannabis Generation Equity Fund. A collaboration between Zenbarn Farms and the Vermont-based nonprofit Pennywise Foundation, the fund provides financial, educational, and emotional support for Black, Indigenous, and people of color entering the cannabis industry.

Since November 2022, the fund has raised about $7,000 from community contributions and tips at the Zenbarn Farms store, Tucker-Fishman said. Recipients of the fund include Candace Taylor of the Winooski organization Conscious Homestead, Shirelle Grant of the cannabis equity advocacy nonprofit Vermont NORML, artist Raphaella Brice, and artist Liza Phillip.

An exhibit at Zenbarn Farms allows customers to smell six different types of terpenes  compounds that provide aroma and flavor in cannabis, as well as various psychological effects. For the exhibit, Burlington artist Liza Phillip was commissioned through the Cannabis Generation Equity Fund.

Tucker-Fishman said it's important that the fund supports Black and Indigenous people because they have been disproportionately harmed by the War on Drugs.

Story continues

Nationally, Black people are 3.64 times more likely than white people to be arrested for cannabis possession, according to an ACLU analysis of FBI data from 2010-2018. These racial disparities in cannabis arrests persist in the U.S. cannabis industry, in which only 2% of cannabis entrepreneurs are Black, according to a 2022 article in Fortune.

"If people are going to start to profit off of this," Tucker-Fishman said, "we need to make sure there's folks who look like us making sales."

Contact April Fisher at amfisher@freepressmedia.com. Follow her on Twitter: @AMFisherMedia

This article originally appeared on Burlington Free Press: Waterbury's Zenbarn Farms supports racial equity in cannabis industry
(AFP via Getty Images)

WhatsApp and other secure messaging apps have sounded the alarm about an unprecedented threat to UK citizens and people who communicate with them.

It is the latest alarm from WhatsApp, Signal and others about the UKs planned Online Safety Bill. The legislation aims to protect people online  but security experts have warned that parts of the bill could force apps to weaken the technology that keeps messages safe.

As such, the law would pose an unprecedented threat to the privacy, safety and security of every UK citizen and the people with whom they communicate around the world, according to a new open letter.

That letter was addressed to anyone who cares about safety and privacy on the internet, and was signed by the head of not only WhatsApp but also Signal, Viber, Element, OPTF/Session, Threema and Wire.

Private messages are private, wrote Will Cathcart, head of WhatsApp, in a separate tweet. We oppose proposals to scan peoples private messages, and were proud to stand with other apps to defend encryption and your right to privacy.

Mr Cathcart has repeatedly suggested that WhatsApp could be forced to turn off service for UK citizens, since it would refuse to comply with any rules that required it to weaken security. Signal and other apps have said they would take the same stance.

As end-to-end-encrypted communication services, we urge the UK Government to address the risks that the Online Safety Bill poses to everyones privacy and safety, the letter begins. It is not too late to ensure that the Bill aligns with the Governments stated intention to protect end-to-end encryption and respect the human right to privacy.

The government has indicated that it is not the intention of the bill that it will be used to limit end-to-end encryption. But critics and messaging apps have argued that the legislation should be written more precisely, to ensure that it cannot be used that way.

End-to-end encryption is a technology used in apps such as WhatsApp to ensure that only the sender and recipient of a message can read it. It means that the message cannot be intercepted by third-parties  locking out law enforcement and hackers, as well as the messaging platforms themselves.

Story continues

Messaging apps have voiced concern that the new law could allow regulator Ofcom to force apps to scan through messages to ensure that illegal content such as child abuse imagery is not being distributed on their platform. But security experts say that would require weakening security for everyone, since there is no way to break encryption on specific messages.

As currently drafted, the Bill could break end-to-end encryption, opening the door to routine, general and indiscriminate surveillance of personal messages of friends, family members, employees, executives, journalists, human rights activists and even politicians themselves, which would fundamentally undermine everyones ability to communicate securely, the letter reads.

The Bill provides no explicit protection for encryption, and if implemented as written, could empower Ofcom to try to force the proactive scanning of private messages on end-to-end encrypted communication services - nullifying the purpose of end-to-end encryption as a result and compromising the privacy of all users.

It ends with a plea to the government to rewrite the bill. While it does not threaten to cut off service if the bill is not changed, WhatsApp and others have repeatedly made clear that they could do so.

The UK Government must urgently rethink the Bill, revising it to encourage companies to offer more privacy and security to its residents, not less. Weakening encryption, undermining privacy, and introducing the mass surveillance of peoples private communications is not the way forward, it concludes.
The City of Jacksonville is hosting a Prescription Drug Take Back Day this weekend. Its part of the federal Drug Enforcement Administrations National Take Back Day.

Thanks to National Take Back Day, Florida has collected 8,300 tons of unused medicine over the last 12 years. This Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Jacksonville wants to see you drop off your unused medications.

Get them out of the home to reduce the chance of overdose, medication mistakes, Dawn Sollee, Director of The Florida Poison Information Center, said.

The federal law enforcement agency is aiming to maintain the publics health and safety and so is Jacksonville.

Its also really important for the environment, Florida Poison Information Center of Jacksonville Education Coordinator Michael McCormick said.

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McCormick said the biggest misconception about getting rid of your unused medicine is thinking you should do it on your own.

Flushing pills down the toilet, you see it in movies, but its really bad because the pharmaceuticals go straight through wastewater treatment plants and into the water supply, McCormick said.

RELATED: List of local participating locations in DEA Drug Take Back Day

If you or anyone you know would like to participate in this weekends Drug Take Back Day to get rid of your unused, unwanted or expired medications for safe disposal come by one of these five Jacksonville-area locations.

UF Health North, 15255 Max Leggett Pkwy, 32218 Avenues Mall, 10300 Southside Blvd., 32256 Jacksonville Beach Police Department, 101 Penman Rd. S, 32250 Mayo Clinic, 4500 San Pablo Rd. S., 32224 The Potters House, 5119 Normandy Blvd., 32205

[DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks]

Sollee hopes you participate.

Take advantage of DEA drug take back day and disposal sites, it keeps those products out the hands of people that shouldnt have access to them, Sollee said.

Acceptable drugs include vitamins, over-the-counter medicine and prescription medication, patches, ointments and pet medications.

Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live.
Andrew Lester (right) is accused of shooting Ralph Yarl (left) in the head in front of his home in Kansas City, Missouri, on April 13, 2023. Faith Spoonmore/GoFundMe/Kansas City Police Depar

Andrew Lester, 84, has been charged with armed assault after shooting 16-year-old, Ralph Yarl.

Lester told police that he was afraid someone was trying to break into his home, CNN reported.

He also claimed he was "scared to death" by Yarl's size, CNN reported, citing court documents.

A white man from Kansas, City, Missouri, said he shot a Black teenager who mistakenly rang his doorbell because he was "scared," CNN reported.

Andrew Lester, 84, has been charged with first-degree assault and armed criminal action after he allegedly shot Ralph Yarl in front of his home last week, Clay County prosecutor Zachary Thompson said during a press conference on Monday.

Yarl, a 16-year-old high schooler, had intended to pick up his brothers on the evening of April 13, but went to the wrong address and rang the doorbell twice, Thompson said

Lester told police officers that he was in bed when he heard his doorbell ring and grabbed a handgun before answering, adding that he was "scared to death" by Yarl's size, CNN reported, citing a probable cause statement.

"He stated he believed someone was attempting to break into the house, and shot twice (through an exterior storm door) within a few seconds of opening the (main) door," the statement, written by police officers, said, according to CNN.

"(He) stated the male inside took a long time but finally opened the door holding a firearm. He stated he was immediately shot in the head and fell to the ground," it said.

His attorneys and aunt, Faith Spoonmore, did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment.

Yarl was shot twice, with bullets striking him in the left forehead and right arm, the probable cause statement said.

Spoonmore said in a TikTok video posted last week that before her nephew, "a man opened up the door, looked at him in the eye and said: 'Don't ever come back here!' as he shot him in the head."

"My nephew fell down and the man shot him again," she added in the video.

After three nights in the hospital, the 16-year-old has been brought home and "continues to improve," his father, Paul Yarl, told The Kansas City Star. Yarl's mother, who is a nurse, has taken time off work to tend to her son, he added.

Story continues

A warrant had been issued for Lester's arrest.

"My message to the community is that, in Clay County, we enforce the laws and we follow the laws," Thompson said at the press conference on Monday. "That doesn't matter where you come from, what you look like or how much money you have."

Read the original article on Insider
Ralph Yarl with his school band, left, and in a hospital after the shooting. (Courtesy of Yarl family)

An arrest warrant was issued early Monday evening for the man accused of shooting Ralph Yarl, a Black 16-year-old who rang the doorbell to a home where he believed he was to pick up his two siblings.

Clay County, Mo., prosecutor Zachary Thompson announced that the suspect, Andrew Lester, an 84-year-old white man, faces two felony counts, including assault in the first degree and armed criminal action in connection with the shooting. The assault charge is a grade A felony, the highest level in the state, which carries a sentence of 10-30 years, or life imprisonment, upon conviction. Officials said that Lester fired his gun through the glass door and shot Ralph twice even though the teenager did not attempt to enter the home and no words were exchanged between the two.

There was a racial component to the case, Thompson said.

The announcement of the arrest warrant followed four days of mounting frustration and anger expressed by Ralphs family and loved ones who demanded that the shooter be held accountable.

On Monday, family attorney Ben Crump called the charges appropriate, but stressed his belief that Lester deserved to be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

They let this white man go, who shot this 16-year-old teenager who only pushed his doorbell and they questioned him for 20 minutes and let him come home and sleep in his bed at night, Crump told Yahoo News shortly after the warrant announcement. Had the roles been reversed  had a Black man shot a 16-year-old white citizen  [nobody would] believe they wouldve let him come home and sleep without him being arrested and processed.

Ralph Yarl. (Courtesy of Yarl family)

Crump added that Ralph and his family had received a call from President Biden early Monday evening. In a statement, Crump said Biden offered his prayers for Ralphs recovery and for justice in the case.

After suffering one gunshot wound to the head and another to the arm, Ralph spent three days in the hospital before being released Sunday, Ralph's father, Paul Yarl, told the Kansas City Star.

Story continues

He continues to improve, Yarl said. Hes responsive and hes making good progress.

Tensions in Kansas City have continued to rise in recent days. Over the weekend dozens of community members gathered in front of the home of the alleged gunman for a demonstration, many periodically chanting, Stand up, fight back!

The Kansas City Police Department told Yahoo News that while details about the investigation were unavailable to the press due to the so-called Missouri Sunshine Law, they were working as quickly as possible to submit a complete case file to the Clay County Prosecutor's Office.

Circumstances of violent crime vary depending on innumerable variables, KCPD spokesman Corey Carlisle said in an email. The police department doesnt file charges, that is up to the county prosecutor to determine charges in felony violent crime cases.

The shooting

Officers arrived at Lesters home on April 13 just before 10 p.m. after receiving a report that shots had been fired. When they arrived, they said, they found Ralph, who had been shot twice, and he was transported to a local hospital. KCPD Chief Stacey Graves said Sunday that the homeowner was placed under a 24-hour investigation hold following the shooting, but was released pending further investigation.

Police later learned that Ralphs parents had asked him to pick up his twin siblings from a home located at Northeast 115th Terrace, but he mistakenly went to a home on Northeast 115th Street, which was one block away. Ralph had no phone with him at the time.

Ralph Yarl is a section leader in his school's marching band. (Courtesy of Yarl family)

Faith Spoonmore, who identified herself as Ralphs aunt on a GoFundMe account set up for the teen, claimed the homeowner opened the door and shot Ralph in the head. And after Ralph fell, the man shot him again, she said. Once alert, Ralph was able to get up and run to a nearby home to get help.

The online fundraiser set up by Spoonmore raised more than $1.8 million in less than 24 hours. The funds, she says, will be used to cover Yarls medical bills, therapy and college expenses.

Social media reactions

Derrick Johnson, president and CEO of the NAACP, expressed anger in a statement over how the incident had played out.

Tonight, millions of Black parents across America are going to have The Talk again, this time adding another item to the list: dont ring the wrong doorbell, Johnson said Monday.

Crump said that despite Ralphs release from the hospital, he still has a long road ahead of him.

He's going to miss quite a significant amount of time from school, but everybody's praying that he can make a full recovery, Crump said. It's a miracle that he's home.

The shooting has angered people across the country, many of whom flocked to social media to express their feelings. Oscar-winning actress Halle Berry wrote that her heart completely broke after learning of what happened to Ralph.

This innocent child is now fighting for his life, Berry tweeted late Sunday and posted to her Instagram, urging more than 9 million of her followers to demand an immediate arrest and bring the appropriate charges to the shooter.

His name is #RalphYarl and Im sick and tired of this feelingmy heart completely broke when I learned this precious 16-year-old, who accidentally rang the door of the wrong address in an attempt to pick up his siblings, was shot in the head (1/3) pic.twitter.com/4VaZo7EFVE  Halle Berry (@halleberry) April 17, 2023

Bernice King, daughter of the slain civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., echoed calls for justice in the hopes to prevent these tragedies.

Lets be for justice, which is a continuum, King tweeted Sunday evening.

Kansas City Chiefs running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire shared his own dismay, tweeting, Cant even ring doorbells out here, along with the hashtag Ralph Yarl.

Ralphs contagious smile

According to the GoFundMe page, Ralph is the section leader of his high school marching band. He had looked forward to graduating high school and visiting West Africa before starting college.

Christopher Wilson, Ralphs third grade teacher at Hawthorn Elementary, recalled the teen as a joy to have in class. Nearly a decade ago, he had won the schools top citizenship award, Wilson said, which was voted on by the class.

He was a quiet student, but kind, very bright and a friend to everyone, Wilson told Yahoo News. His smile is still just as contagious.

Cover thumbnail: Courtesy of the Yarl family
Ralph Yarl - LEE MERRITT

A white man who shot a black teenager in the head after he knocked on the door of the wrong house has surrendered to police custody after being charged with assault.

Andrew Lester, 84, shot Ralph Yarl twice after the 16-year-old mistakenly knocked on his front door to collect his younger brothers in Kansas City, Missouri, shortly before 10pm on April 13.

Mr Lester has been charged with first-degree assault and armed criminal action, punishable by up to 15 years in prison.

Clay County Sheriff confirmed on Tuesday night that Mr Lester had surrendered at their detention centre: He is in custody.

The shooting has fuelled protests across Kansas City and stirred memories of Trayvon Martin and Ahmaud Arbery - two young black men who were gunned down by assailants who later claimed self-defence.

It came as a lawyer for the teenager expressed disbelief that Mr Lester wasnt kept in police custody after the shooting, and questioned if police would have acted more rapidly if the roles were reversed.

I mean, this citizen went home and slept in his bed at night after shooting that young black kid in the head, attorney Ben Crump said.

Andrew Lester - Reuters

[Ralph] merely rang the doorbell. That was it, Mr Crump told CNN. And the owner of the home shoots through the door, hitting him in the head and then shoots him a second time.

On the night of the shooting, Mr Lester was taken into custody and released less than two hours later pending further investigation.

Police spoke with Ralph while he was being treated at a hospital, where he told them his mother asked him to pick up his 11-year-old brothers at 1100 NE 115th Street, according to charging documents, which notes the actual address they were staying at was 1100 NE 115th Terrace.

When he arrived at the house, Ralph said he rang the doorbell and waited a while before a man eventually opened the door and immediately shot him in the head, causing him to fall, the document says.

While the teenager was lying still on the ground, the man then fired again, shooting him in the arm, Ralph told police.

Story continues

He said he got up and ran to keep from being shot, and he heard the man say: Dont come around here. He then went to multiple nearby homes asking for help and telling people to call police.

The house where Ralph Yarl was shot - AP

In his account to police, Mr Lester said he saw a black male approximately 6 feet tall pulling on the exterior storm door handle.

He stated he believed someone was attempting to break into the house, and shot twice within a few seconds of opening the door.

Mr Crump said the teenager was being treated in hospital for a cracked skull and a critical, traumatic brain injury. The lawyer said it was a miracle he survived.

There was a racial component to this case, said Zachary Thompson, the Clay County prosecuting ttorney, without elaborating.

Mr Lesters lawyer may seek to invoke the Stand Your Ground laws which allow homeowners in Missouri to respond to threats or force without fear of criminal prosecution in any place where a person has the right to be.

If convicted, he faces a maximum punishment of life in prison on the assault charge and three to 15 years for the gun crime.
Dozens of prescription pill bottles

Credit - Getty Images

In October 2022, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a shortage of amphetamine mixed saltsa drug category that includes Adderall, the stimulant medication often used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

In the six months since, little has changed. Numerous amphetamine mixed salts products are still in short supply, although certain manufacturers expect to release additional inventory in April or May, according to an Apr. 10 update to the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) drug shortage database.

Half a year may seem like ample time to get more of a medication into production and circulation. But experts say ending a drug shortage is more complex than it seemsparticularly when it comes to a heavily regulated substance like Adderall.

Six months feels like a long time, and it absolutely is a long time for patients, says Emily Tucker, an assistant professor of industrial engineering at Clemson University who studies drug shortages. But in the broader context of the pharma industry, its very common to see shortages of over a year.

Drug shortages are usually caused by manufacturing disruptions, Tucker says. When the FDA announced the Adderall shortage last year, it pointed to ongoing intermittent manufacturing delays at Teva Pharmaceuticals, a major supplier of Adderall.

But increasing demand seems to be a big factor, too. ADHD diagnoses and stimulant prescriptions are on the rise, apparently driven partially by relaxed prescribing standards during the pandemic and partially by better awareness and detection of the condition. That spike in demand seems to be constraining the available medication supply.

Read More: If Youre Feeling Anxious, Try This 2,000-Year-Old, Neuroscience-Backed Hack



On the surface, that seems like an easier problem to fix: if more people need a drug, simply make more of it. But even if everyone wants to increase the production, it might just not be possible, says Ozlem Ergun, a professor of mechanical and industrial engineering at Northeastern University and an expert in pharmaceutical supply chains.

Story continues

Drug manufacturing is a multi-step process, explains Philip Almeter, chief pharmacy officer at UK HealthCare in Kentucky. Typically, different manufacturers are involved in first processing a drugs active ingredients, then putting on finishes touches before it hits pharmacy shelves. Its not as simple as just making more, Almeter says. You have to make more at different levels.

More from TIME

Many pharmaceutical manufacturing plants also operate at near-peak capacity and make multiple drugs under the same roof. Scaling up production of one drug could require ceasing or reducing production of another drug, leading to a domino effect, Ergun explains. Its not as easy as, Why dont you just go and jack up your manufacturing? she says.

Adderall is also a special case because its a controlled substance. Due to its potential for illicit sale and use, production is regulated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as well as the FDA. To avoid having more of the drug in circulation than necessary, the DEA caps the amount of amphetamine available to manufacturers in a given year. Authorized manufacturers apply to receive a portion of the total supply and can request more if necessary, but the DEA may deny a request if the total quota has already been met, among other reasons.

Camber, a pharmaceutical company that makes amphetamine mixed salts, says it is waiting for the DEA to review its quota application, according to the ASHPs drug shortage database. Teva representatives have also suggested that the DEAs quota system is contributing to the ongoing shortage, Bloomberg reports. (Neither company responded to comment requests by press time.)

Read More: How to Be Mindful if You Hate Meditating

The DEA, however, has said otherwise. A representative for the DEA declined to comment for this story but highlighted a December 2022 entry in the Federal Register, which says U.S. manufacturers did not use the total allotted amphetamine supply in 2020, 2021, or 2022. The majority of the manufacturers contacted by DEA and/or FDA have responded that they currently have sufficient quota to meet their contracted production quantities for legitimate patient medical needs, it says. As a result, the DEA did not increase the quota for 2023, but maintains the authority to do so if necessary.

Theres so little transparency in the pharmaceutical industry that its difficult to know the real story behind the back-and-forth, Tucker says. Drug makers dont need to publicly share much information about where their drugs are made and sourced, how much of them they make, or their overall production capacities. The DEA, meanwhile, doesnt need to share all the details about how much of the amphetamine quota each company receives. That opaque system makes it hard to know exactly whats causing a shortage.

Its very hard to correct a system when you dont know whats going on in the system, Ergun says. She contributed to a recent report on improving medical supply chains for the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine, and one of its primary recommendations was increased transparency in the industry.

Without freer-flowing information, Tucker says theres no telling when shortages will let up, though shes encouraged that some manufacturers expect additional supplies this spring. The amount of media attention and public outcry about the Adderall shortage may also help resolve it relatively quickly, she sayswhich isnt the case for many of the 160 drugs with reported shortages in the U.S. last year.

Those are also a big deal, Tucker says. But perhaps theyre not getting this degree of attention.
Partners often feel the effects of snoring the most (Alamy/PA)

If your partner snores, you might notice that things get a whole lot worse after theyve had a few drinks.

This can make life a misery for any sleep-disrupted partners  not least because experts suggest many snorers are more likely to snore when lying on their back, but when theyve been drinking, theyre harder to move on to their side.

According to the British Snoring & Sleep Apnoea Association, around 41.5% of the UK adult population snore  and a whole lot more people are affected if you take partners into consideration.

But why does alcohol make things worse?

When youre awake, muscles in your nose, mouth and throat keep your airways open, explains Amy Gallagher, a senior sleep physiologist at the Cromwell Hospital, London.

But when you sleep, these muscles relax and can lead to airways narrowing. As air passes through, it can cause the surrounding tissues to vibrate, resulting in the sound we call snoring.

A proportion of these snorers suffer from obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), where theres a greater degree of airway narrowing.

Usually, the louder the snoring, the greater the degree of narrowing, sometimes with total blockage of airflow, says Professor Ram Dhillon, a consultant ENT surgeon with a special interest in snoring and OSA. This blockage is termed an apnoea if of 10 seconds or longer in duration.

Alcohol plays a role in both snoring and OSA, say the experts. Dhillon explains good tension in the muscles around the upper airway keep it open, but warns: Sleep reduces this tension, increasing the likelihood of narrowing to produce snoring, and total blockage, resulting in apnoea. Alcohol consumption enhances the relaxation and reduces the tension of these upper airway muscles and tissues and worsens the severity of the snoring, and can unmask apnoea and/or also increase its severity.

And Gallagher adds: Alcohol has a negative impact on the quality of your sleep and can make snoring worse, or if you dont usually snore it can mean that you do.

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So what can you do to stop snoring? Heres the experts advice

Avoid alcohol

While not drinking wont necessarily stop you snoring, its likely to reduce it.

Dhillon says: The advice is to avoid alcohol totally if you have snoring or have been diagnosed with OSA. If you suffer from snoring made worse with alcohol and have disruptive sleep, then a diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnoea may need to be considered.

And if you dont want to give up alcohol completely, then both experts warn its best to at least not drink close to bedtime.

Certainly do not drink alcohol for at least four hours before sleep, advises Dhillon, and Gallagher stresses: Dont drink alcohol late at night. Alcohol relaxes your muscles, making your airways more likely to narrow. You might also snore louder if youve been drinking because your throat is dry, as alcohol makes you dehydrated.

Quit smoking

Smoking irritates the throat and nasal passage, and Gallagher explains: This irritation can cause swelling and dryness which may lead to snoring. Smoking is also associated with congestion and this can further worsen breathing.

Sleep on your side

Sleeping on your back makes you more likely to snore, says Gallagher.

Sleeping on your side is the best sleep position to help prevent snoring, because it reduces the compression of your airways, she adds.

Maintain a healthy weight

Dhillon suggests people who are excessively overweight, particularly with a BMI of 35 or above, and/or with a neck size of 16.5 inches or greater, are more likely to snore.

Gallagher explains: If youre overweight, you may have extra tissue in and around your throat which contributes to snoring. Leading an active and healthy lifestyle and maintaining an ideal weight can reduce pressure on your airways and helps stop snoring.

Elevate your pillow

By raising your head around four inches on your pillow, pressure is removed from the throat and the nasal passage opens up, says Gallagher, who explains: This forces your tongue and jaw forward and helps to reduce snoring.

Try stop snoring treatments

Dhillon recommends treatments including mandibular advancement devices, which hold the lower jaw and tongue forward making more space to breathe and prevent snoring, a nocturnal mouth guard, which holds the jaw in the right position to stop snoring, or continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), which provides a continuous flow of air into the upper airway via a face mask.
Talking to people is crucial when making changes to working practices. Photo: Getty

Whether we like it or not  and most of us dont  change is something we cant avoid, especially in the workplace. From new managers and colleagues to different technologies and plans, how we do our jobs is constantly evolving. Despite this, many of us struggle to adjust to changes at work. So why do we dislike change  and how can employers help people be more adaptable?

Humans are creatures of habit. One reason for this is a type of cognitive bias called the status quo bias, which goes some way to explain why we are so resistant to change. It means that when we are faced with a challenging decision, people tend to prefer things to stay as they are  and show a preference for choices that maintain the status quo. There are many factors involved in this bias, from not wanting to lose what we own, to wanting to avoid regret.

Read more: How to recognise a toxic work culture from a job advert

We also struggle with change because it can mean uncertainty, something we are hardwired to try to avoid because it can leave us vulnerable to risk. Neuroscience research teaches us that uncertainty registers in our brain much like a mistake does. When faced with a change  such as a new boss  it signifies a diversion from what we know, which often leads to stress. This is because our stress responses are tuned to environmental uncertainty, an evolutionary mechanism that may have once helped us survive as hunter gatherers.

Although most of us arent at risk of being eaten by wild animals, this biological mechanism still exists. In fact, researchers at University College London found that even knowing theres a small chance of getting a painful electric shock can lead to more stress than knowing youll definitely be shocked. In other words, its the uncertainty  the not knowing  that triggers anxiety. And because change means uncertainty, we get stressed.

Read more: Why are remote workers 'body doubling' online  and can it boost productivity?

Story continues

That being said, change is often inevitable. Your company might be restructuring, introducing a new strategy or moving people to different teams. However, research shows that employers can help employees adjust to change more easily with a relatively simple tactic.

How to get employees on board with change

Getting a team to accept a new plan can be difficult. However, the way changes are communicated to employees can make a big difference. According to a recent report in the Academy of Management, the best way to announce change is to emphasise the things that are staying the same.

The report analyses the results of two studies published in 2019. In the first study, researchers carried out a survey of 209 employees and their supervisors from a number of organisations that had announced organisational change plans. These included reorganisations, expansions, changes in leadership and more.

Workers ranked how certain or uncertain they felt about the change, along with what their manager had communicated would remain the same. Meanwhile, managers ranked their reports support for the change. The results showed that when leaders communicated what would be staying the same, the more supportive people were of the planned changes.

Read more: What is neurodiversity and why are employers embracing it?

In the second study, 208 business school students were informed of potential changes to their curriculum. The students received one of two messages  one outlined a vision of change for the curriculum, and the other conveyed the same vision, but emphasised how some things would remain the same.

The results showed that support for change was higher when the vision of change was accompanied by what the researchers termed a vision of continuity. In other words, people were more accepting of change when they sensed some things would stay familiar.

The research has significant implications for employers. While announcing changes may be unavoidable, highlighting the things that will remain the same may help to alleviate some of the uncertainty and stress. Of course, there will likely still be resistance  particularly when people are faced with unpleasant or difficult changes, such as lay-offs. But the way employers communicate with people can make a big difference.

Watch: 4 day work-week is catching on, as it shows positive impacts on health

Download the Yahoo Finance app, available for Apple and Android.
It is likely to only take one Democratic Senate opponent to sink Julie Sus nomination as U.S. labor secretary. And at least two Democratic senators wont say theyre backing her.

Sen. Jon Tester, D-Montana, said Tuesday he was very ambivalent about confirming the former top California labor department official. Sen. Joe Manchin, D-West Virginia, said no comment when asked if hed support Su.

Both senators are up for re-election next year in states President Donald Trump easily won in 2016 and 2020.

Democrats now control 51 of the Senates 100 seats. But Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., is battling health issues and has not voted since mid-February. Its unclear when shell return.

With all 49 Republicans expected to oppose Su, it would take only one Democratic defection to deny her confirmation. The Senate Health, Education, Labor & Pensions Committee plans a hearing on the nomination Thursday.

But first, Rep. Kevin Kiley, R-Rocklin, will hold a hearing in his Workforce Protections Subcommittee Wednesday that will in part examine Sus impact on California and, potentially, on the nation.

Hes not sympathetic.

My aim is to show whats in store for the country if Californias disastrous policies are nationalized and (Gov. Gavin) Newsoms acolyte Julie Su is elevated, Kiley wrote on his blog.

Tester said wants to wait for Thursdays confirmation hearing before commenting further.

He plans to meet with Su immediately after the hearing.

Im very ambivalent. I voted for her before. I dont have any problem with her right now. Well see how things go, he said.

Labor supports, GOP opposes

The Su nomination has become mired in a classic Washington pressure campaign. The AFL-CIO and Asian American activists are pushing hard for her confirmation. Business interests and conservative Republicans tend to be opposed.

The AFL-CIOs website features as its top item a petition urging people to voice their support for Su.

Julie Su has made a career out of representing not only workers, it says, but the most vulnerable workers in America.

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Asian American members of Congress are pleased that she would become one of the few Asian Americans to have run a Cabinet department. Rep. Ted Lieu, D-Santa Monica, a member of the House Democratic leadership team, called her a fearless advocate for the rights of workers and good paying jobs across our economy.

Su was a highly-regarded worker rights attorney before entering government service. In July 2021, she became the deputy U.S. labor secretary, confirmed on a party-line vote. Tester and Manchin voted to confirm her.

When Secretary Marty Walsh left the top job last month, Su became acting secretary.

At the Labor Department, she has been its chief operating officer, helping to implement union-friendly policies. Among the departments tasks are running job training programs, enforcing wage and hour laws, and managing unemployment programs.

Su and controversy

Su faces two controversies.

In California, her department was in charge of the state unemployment system when the COVID-19 pandemic triggered an enormous spike in jobless claims. Su was Secretary of the California Labor and Workforce Development Agency.

The agencys Employment Development Department was deluged with claims, and at the same time had to manage new federal unemployment programs.

EDD struggled, as insufficient staff and balky technology left it often unable to promptly handle phone calls and requests for service. The unemployment program became riddled with scams that by some estimates have cost the federal government $30 billion in fraudulent claims.

Su is also being criticized by many business interests and Republicans for her championing of the 3-year-old California law that reclassified many independent workers as employees. The law gave them the right to minimum wages, workers compensation and other benefits.

Republicans claim that she would push similar changes nationally, though with a House controlled by the GOP that would be nearly impossible.

Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., the top Republican on the Senate labor committee, said that in California, Su removed the flexibility of individuals to work as independent contractors. He called her record troubling.

Such concerns make Sus confirmation uncertain. As Sen. Bob Casey, D-Pa., a labor committee member, said, he and other Democrats thought Su was great.

But, he added, Im not sure we have 50.
Kate Middleton felt resentment towards Meghan Markle for causing her to miss Queen Elizabeth IIs final moments, according to the author of a new royal book.

Royal commentator Robert Jobson, who is the author of Our King: Charles III: The Man and the Monarch Revealed, made new claims about the late monarchs family during a recent interview with Australian publication The Daily Telegraph. He noted that before the Queen died at her home in Scotland in September, immediate members of her family rushed to the city to see her.

However, Jobson pointed out that Prince Williams wife, Kate, and Prince Harrys wife, Meghan, did not join their spouses on this trip to Scotland. The royal commentator alleged that now King Charless III was the one who asked the two women not to come.

If Catherine doesnt come, Meghan cant either, its not appropriate for wives to attend, he claimed to the Australian magazine, as reported byThe New Zealand Herald.

Despite the claim, Jobson still alleged that the Queens youngest son, Prince Edward, was accompanied by his wife, Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, when visiting the late royal in September.

Jobson went on to claim that while the Duke of Sussex wanted his wife with him to see the Queen, his father allegedly didnt want this, but he couldnt tell Harry that.

Harry was insisting Meghan travel with him to Scotland as the Queens life ebbed away but the King said it was only for the children and grandchildren to be with the Queen, he claimed. Privately, he wanted to say Meghan was not welcome but he couldnt say that to Harry so he personally intervened and asked Kate to stay back so that it was fairer on Meghan.

Jobson claimed the request for Kate to to stay back, while her husband was saying goodbye to the Queen, ended up impacting her feelings toward Meghan.

Kate deliberately stayed away but she desperately wanted to be there with the Queen in her last moments. Thats eaten Kate up and has built up resentment towards Meghan, the author added.

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He also claimed that when the late monarch passed on 8 September, she was with Charles and his wife, Queen Camilla, and Princess Anne, the Queens only daughter. William, Edward, Sophie, and the Queens third child, Prince Andrew, reportedly arrived at 5pm that day, two hours after she passed. Harry joined the rest of the group at 8pm.

According to Jobson, there was also some tension between Kate and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex during a walkabout in London after the Queen passed.

On 10 September, William and Kate walked alongside Harry and Meghan as they greeted well-wishers near Windsor Castle nine days before the Queens funeral. Pictures of the four wearing mourning attire quickly made headlines at the time, with Harry and Meghan holding hands. This was also their first engagement under their new titles after stepping back from royal duties in 2020.

In his book, Our King Charles III: The Man and the Monarch Revealed, Jobson claimed that sources told him that while the four seemed amicable on the day, that wasnt the case. He said that, according to sources, the image of unity was an illusion.

He made claims about the Princess of Wales feelings during that walk, writing: Catherine later admitted to a senior royal that, such was the ill feeling between the two couples, the joint walkabout was one of the hardest things shed ever had to do.

In his bombshell book, Spare, Harry has made multiple claims about the royal family, including a story about a physical altercation that he had with his brother.

He also alleged that there were several occasions where Kate and William were hostile towards his wife. For example, he shared some tense texts between Meghan and Kate about the infamous bridesmaid dresses for the Duke and Duchess of Sussexs 2018 wedding.

On 12 April, Buckingham Palace announced that Harry will attend his fathers coronation ceremony in May, while Meghan will remain in California with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.

According to a friend of the Sussexes, Harry reached out to the King, since the realease of his book, which came out in January. As reported by The Telegraph, a friend of Harry and Meghan said that there had been some positive conversations between him and his father. The publication also alleged that Harry held peace talks with the King, before his presence at the coronation was confirmed.
Sunscreen is one of many ways of protecting your neck skin. | Matt Slocum, Associated Press

Look, Im quickly coming up on 30  this very year, in fact. While Im not afraid of aging, I do want to take good care of my skin and set myself up for success as I get older. After all, your skin is the largest organ of the body.

While I take pretty good care of my skin, theres one part of my body that I often neglect: my neck. And as it turns out, your neck ages faster than your face. Heres why  and what to do about it.

Why does my neck age faster than my face?

As Dr. Theodora Mauro, professor of dermatology at the University of California, San Fransisco, told The New York Times, neck skin ages faster than almost any place else on the body. Additionally, your neck skin is particularly vulnerable, said Mauro.

According to Mauro, there are a few things that can contribute to aging neck skin: poor posture, insufficient skin care, sun exposure and the natural weakening and decline of your muscles.

Also, the skin on your neck is less durable, making it unable to heal as well as it does elsewhere on the body, per The New York Times.

How do I tighten my neck skin naturally?

While most treatments dont come with a guarantee, there are a few things you can do to potentially tighten your neck skin:

A skincare routine: Perhaps one of the easiest ways to begin to care for your neck skin is to have a comprehensive skincare routine. Since everyones skincare needs are different, youll probably want to consult with a dermatologist before buying skincare products.

Collagen supplements: According to MasterClass, you can take collagen supplements to encourage collagen production, as well as to promote skin elasticity, and moisturize the skin. You can also get collagen treatments in-office, per Byrdie.

Use retinol: According to Byrdie, retinol is a great product for firming your neck. Heather Woolery-Lloyd told Byrdie, It is FDA-approved for treatment and prevention of wrinkles and has decades of science backing its effectiveness.

Use sunscreen: Whenever you apply sunscreen to your face, apply it to your neck, too  and often. Board-certified dermatologist Roberta Del Campo told Byrdie that using both sunscreen and retinol is important because they are not only improving their skin quality but preventing the loss of collagen.

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How do I tighten my neck skin without surgery?

If youre looking to tighten your neck without invasive surgery, here are some noninvasive treatments, per MasterClass:

Facial yoga: According to MasterClass, Facial yoga involves stretching to stimulate the facial muscles and neck muscles. There are multiple facial yoga routines for out there, so make sure to find one that specifically targets the neck. MasterClass recommends doing facial yoga for thirty minutes every day.

Neck stretches: If you want to keep things simple, try out facial yogas cousin  neck stretches. Per MasterClass, neck stretches simply involve looking up at the ceiling and turning your neck slowly. This can help tone and tighten your neck.

Non-invasive treatments: There are multiple non-invasive treatments that use lasers or wave frequencies to heat the layers underneath the skin and stimulate new collagen production, per MasterClass. These treatments include radiofrequency and laser treatments, as well as ultherapy.

Exfoliations treatments: Many spas offer exfoliation treatments, such as chemical peels and dermabrasion or microdermabrasion. Per MasterClass, these treatments (peel) away the upper layers of skin to improve elasticity and smooth the appearance.

Microneedling: This is probably the most invasive treatment on the list, but as MasterClass put it, microneedling is a minimally-invasive procedure. This treatment involves puncturing your neck skin with small needles, which resurfaces the skin to stimulate collagen and elastin production.

Its worth mentioning that no matter what neck-tightening treatment you land on, results will likely vary. And if you have sensitive skin, you might want to consult with a dermatologist before starting a treatment.

Related

The best products for your neck

Price: $14.99.

If youre on the hunt for a cheap anti-aging cream for both morning and night, this one from LOreal is a great choice. According to LOreal, this cream helps smooth, firm, and hydrate areas of your skin that can be prone to visible signs of skin aging, like wrinkles loss of elasticity. Its formulated with pro-retinol and centella asiatica and is dermatologist tested.

Price: $12.99.

Retinol is a great anti-aging product, but can be harsh on skin in high percentages. According to Everyday Health, you should look for retinol serums with no more than 1% retinol  like the INKEY List retinol serum. With 1% retinol, this serum can help reduce lines and wrinkles.

Price: $24.97.

Since using sunscreen is key to protecting your neck skin, why not use an anti-aging moisturizer and sunscreen all in one? This RoC moisturizer is a great option. Use it in the morning to protect your skin from the sun during the day  and you can use it on your face and chest, as well as your neck.

Price: $9.99.

If youre looking for a much cheaper alternative, rose hip oil is a great option. As Tracie Martyn co-founder and CEO Marius Morariu told CNN, rose hip oil contains trans-retinoic acid and a number of antioxidants, which can help with reducing wrinkles and supporting cell turnover.

Price: $29.99.

Retinol isnt just good for your face and neck  its great for your entire body, too. You can use this Paulas Choice retinol body treatment on your neck and the rest of your body. And it has 0.1% retinol, meaning itll be pretty gentle on your whole body.
It took four days. But the octogenarian accused of shooting Ralph Yarl is now facing criminal charges. They include armed criminal action and first-degree assault, a class A felony which carries a penalty of no less than 10 years and up to 30 years or life imprisonment, if convicted.



For Andrew D. Lester, the alleged shooter, thats essentially a death sentence.

It would also mark a stark turn of events for the white man who, immediately after the shooting on Thursday, was taken into custody but promptly released after about an hour. Lester surrendered Tuesday and is back in custody. He told police he was scared to death, citing the teenagers size. Fearing that he could not defend himself, Lester discharged his weapon, striking Yarl in the head and in the arm.

The incident has triggered another round of all-too-familiar outrage and horror, and ignited fresh scrutiny over our nation's gun laws  in particular, Missouris stand your ground law, which protects people in some cases who use potentially lethal force if a proportionate threat is encountered.



The perceived threat in this case: Yarl, a Black teenager who was sent to pick up his younger twin siblings, mistakenly arriving at the wrong door.





This case has all the ingredients to revive the national debate over stand your ground laws, which over much of the last decade have been central in trials for civilians accused in fatal shootings of Black teens and young men, including Trayvon Martin and Jordan Davis in 2012.(Daviss mother is Rep. Lucy McBath (D-Ga.), a prominent gun control advocate.)



Martins killer, George Zimmerman, argued during court proceedings that he was suspicious of the teen, who was visiting relatives in a gated community in Florida. Zimmerman then pursued Martin, got into a physical altercation with him, shot him and was acquitted. In Davis case, Michael David Dunn got into an argument over loud rap music at a gas station, then shot into a vehicle carrying Davis and his friends, killing Davis. Dunn was convicted of first-degree murder.

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Its been my goal from the very beginning to get justice for the child involved in the case, Clay County Prosecuting Attorney Zachary Thompson told reporters Monday afternoon after charges had been announced.

I can tell you there was a racial component in this case, he added, without giving further details.

The split-screen politics here are hard to miss. Politicians and celebrities alike have weighed in, including Vice President Kamala Harris, who tweeted: Lets be clear: No child should ever live in fear of being shot for ringing the wrong doorbell. Every child deserves to be safe. Thats the America we are fighting for.

President Joe Biden spoke to Yarl and shared his hope for a swift recovery, the White House announced Monday evening.

Yet as demonstrators rallied through the weekend in Kansas City calling for justice for Yarl  ensuring national media didnt turn its focus elsewhere and ramping up pressure on the law enforcement investigation  some 500 miles east in Indianapolis, the National Rifle Association held its annual convention.

It was attended by a handful of potential 2024 GOP hopefuls, including former President Donald Trump and former Vice President Mike Pence, and the Kansas City incident was not mentioned.

However, other recent shootings were evoked  including mass shootings in Nashville last month and another in Louisville just over a week ago  to argue before the reported 70,000 attendees that more guns are needed.

As the criminal case involving Lester works its way through the Missouri legal system, discrepancies between some of the details that led to the shooting will be addressed.

For instance, Lester told police he shot after he saw Yarl pulling on an exterior storm door, thinking he was trying to break in, while Yarl told police he waited outside after he rang the doorbell and did not pull on the door, The Kansas City Star reported.

Those details could be the crux of whether Lester walks free. But the reason we are talking about this at all seems to be clear, according to a joint statement from Democratic state lawmakers in Missouri: Reps. Ashley Aune, Jamie Johnson, Maggie Nurrenbern and Eric Woods.

While we may want to think that race did not play a factor, it is naive to assume that a white teenager in the same situation would face the same violence, the group wrote on Monday. This is a time when we must be willing to have hard conversations about racism in this country and, sadly, in our communities.

This article first appeared in an edition of The Recast newsletter.
US-POLITICS-GUNS-NRA-CONVENTION

Former President Donald Trump speaks during the National Rifle Association's annual convention at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, on April 14, 2023 Credit - Alex WroblewskiAFP via Getty Images

This article is part of The D.C. Brief, TIMEs politics newsletter. Sign up here to get stories like this sent to your inbox.

As he closed out the gun lobbys biggest annual gathering on Friday with an hour-long keynote, Donald Trump had tough words for Communists, foreign wars, critics of Christianity, and supporters of transgender rightsoh, and his former Vice President.

I hope you gave Pence a good warm approval, Trump said, clearly knowing his potential rival for the 2024 nomination had been welcomed earlier with a smattering of boos. No, because he is a nice man. If you want to really know the truth, he is, hes a good man. And I heard it was very rough. To be clear: Trump is polling right around 50% among Republican voters, while Pence is stuck at 6%.

Trump also couldnt help but take a swipe at Ron DeSantis, mocking the potential rival who appeared by video as DeSanctus, despite enjoying a robust roughly 24-point advantage over the Florida Governor.

If all of this seems typically petty for the former President, it is. But Trumps punching down is not without reason. Despite retaining a clear frontrunner status for his partys nomination next year, its not as strong a footing as it may seem at first glance. While the prospects of multiple indictments loom, Trumps biggest latent flaw is hiding in plain sight.

Both the order and the rules surrounding next years Republican primaries remain in flux. How they shake out could set Trump up to do good, but not great, in the first few contests, with one or more competitors drawing enough support that it punctures the air of invincibility around the former President heading into the free-for-all elections that follow. After all, Lyndon Johnson came within six points of losing the New Hampshire primary in 1968; two weeks later, he bowed out of the campaign altogether.

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The so-called Early States have to award their delegates proportionally, although each can implement a bare minimum of as high as 20% of the vote to qualify for even a single delegate. After that early window, most of the states will shift to a winner-take-all model, though some may choose to split the spoils based on congressional districts rather than statewide totals.

But of course, all of this requires an important hedge: virtually everything about next years primaries remains subject to change. There is no hardened calendar yet. The outline of a schedule exists, although ultimately it is up to every individual state to decide when and how to execute their nominating events, down to whether the format is a one-person-one-vote election, a caucus held in various church basements and bingo halls, or even a party convention whereif history has shown us time and againextremists have their best chance of grabbing hold and derailing campaigns, if not careers.

There are plenty of opportunities for state legislators, party leaders, election chiefs, and some Governors to get hinky with the nominating calendar here. No one can reliably win a contest without a basic understanding of the rules. Those rules, for what its worth, arent even due to the Republican National Committee until Oct. 1.

Further complicating matters: Republicans in some states might not actually have the final say on when their nominating contest takes place. In Maryland, for instance, the Democratic legislature has hinted it has plans to move the states current winner-take-all tentatively scheduled for April 23, 2024, to avoid a conflict with Passover. Similar conflicts are playing out in Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island; moving too far ahead, though, could strip the power to run winner-take-all contests and give an edge to candidates who can pass the minimum viability test. Go too far afield, and parties could trigger penalties for delegates, as is shaping up under a plan backed by Michigans Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer that could cost her states Republican comrades seats at the GOP convention for going too early.

Or take New Hampshire, a state that by law has to have the first-in-the-nation primary. (Folks in Concord, N.H., dismiss Iowas caucuses as a curiosity and not anything to be taken as a true peer.) National Democrats have taken steps to downgrade New Hampshires importance in favor of South Carolina, arguing it is a more representative snapshot of the partys electorate. The Democratic National Committee has told New Hampshire that it has until June to find an offramp and a later date. But New Hampshire leadersled by Republican Gov. Chris Sununu, who may on his own end up becoming a 2024 contender stillhave rejected that and are planning to plow forward with its lead-off contest. I dare you: come and take it, Sununu said last month.

So New Hampshireor other jailbreak statescould find itself with a meaningless contest for delegates, a raft of party activists sidelined at the conventions, and plenty of uncertainty if the parties would make good on threats to punish candidates who play in scofflaw states. (The most obvious precedent is Democrats punishment of Michigan and Florida in 2008 for hopscotching ahead; the delegates were seated, but got only one-half of a vote apiece.)

To be clear, Trump clearly has advantages at the moment that simply cannot be matched: the power of being a former President, a two-time national nominee, a fundraising machine that looks formidable if untested for one last huzzah. And hes not exactly clueless to the complexities of winning a presidential nomination. In 2016, facing a floor revolt at his nominating convention in Cleveland, he deputized some of the smartest rules-masters in the GOP and dodged a disastrous insurrection. In 2020, his campaign team shrewdly started working the refs early to either cancel primaries or to make them more difficult for his challengers. This time around, Trumps team is hardly being coy about the steps theyre considering to make Trumps ascent less difficult, and his rivals are taking notice of his efforts to woo party insiders in case he needs them.

Still, the nominating matrix is a tough one, and the Republican one changes with every state border that is crossed. For candidates not named Trump, a fluid path to the nomination favors those who are nimble and can flex person-to-person retail stops. For all the trappings of the former Presidency, the agility to wing a schedule does not work in any meaningful way. Popping into states is easy when expectations are low; things get tougher for candidates who demand enormous crowds. The most compelling speech of Robert F. Kennedys 1968 campaign was an on-the-fly set of remarks delivered from the back of a pick-up truck in Indianapolis, hours after Dr. Martin Luther King had been assassinated.

This all help explains why none of the cohort of Republicans looking to challenge Trump are entirely irrational individuals. Still, knowing Trumps instincts, there are better than even odds he thinks suckerpunches downward may have more impact than anything his quants might tally for slide decks. Just ask Pence and DeSantis how their latest run-ins with their former patron have gone.

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Days after an April 15 mass shooting at an Alabama teens birthday party, local police have shared limited information regarding any possible suspects.

The shooting killed four people and wounded 28 others, and now the community asking why it is taking law enforcement so long to provide basic answers.

The Dadeville Police Department and Tallapoosa County Sheriffs Office are working together on the case. The two local law enforcement agencies are with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the FBI to investigate the crime.

Sgt. Jeremy Burkett of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency hosted three news conferences since Saturday, each time asking for the public to come forward with any information regarding the shooting in Dadeville, the Montgomery Advertiser reports.

DADEVILLE, AL  APRIL 16: Pastor Fred Hutcherson speaks as community members hold a prayer event following a shooting at the Mahogany Masterpiece dance studio on April 16, 2023 in Dadeville, Alabama. According to reports, at least four people were killed and others injured in a shooting during a birthday party at the dance studio on Saturday night. (Photo by Megan Varner/Getty Images)

Even the smallest detail can be important, Burkett stated during a Sunday public check-in.

However, officials took no questions from reporters and did not provide basic details in the case until Monday afternoon. Some residents voiced their concerns over why those hired to protect and serve arent further along in their probe.

Dadeville native Erica Jackson told reporters she was confused about what is being done to make arrests.

I was hoping to hear that they had the people responsible. We need to know. Are they still out there? Why wont anybody tell us anything? Jackson asked.

Teneeshia Johnson told NPR during a candlelight vigil on Sunday night that she was frustrated that authorites werent saying more.

According to police, Dadeville is one municipality in Alabama that does not have a public safety emergency plan in place for situations like this. This may have hindered the town ability to respond to one of Americas 162nd mass shootings since the top of 2023.

Police have not dropped a be on the lookout or BOLO with suspect descriptions, and other agencies say they have not received, according to sources, information regarding the shooting.

Story continues

The shooting comes almost a week after another mass shooting in the United States. On Monday, April 10, a Louisville Old National Bank was shot up, killing five of its employees.

In this incident, law enforcement acted promptly to take down the shooter, CNN reports with the help of the public. In fact, the mother of the shooter, Connor Sturgeon, turned him in. Sturgeons mom called 911 to report her son had left a note stating his intentions and was on his way to the bank with a gun.

Officers were able to respond, tragically only after the young killed his five co-workers and shot one of their own in the head responding to the crisis. The prompt response is attributed to the citys working emergency operations  which are reportedly not active in Dadeville, a majority-Black town of less than 3,000 people.

Figures from the Gun Violence Archive say the number of mass shootings has gone up significantly in recent years. Since 2020, there have been 600 mass shootings, averaging approximately two a day over the last three years.

Statistics show that since 2006, there have been 546 mass shootings resulting in the deaths of 2,838 people.

As many in the city mourn, WSFA 12 News reports, the tone outside of the dance studio where the shooting happened is somber, particularly as officials removed the crime scene tape surrounding the area and shared the names of those who lost their lives.

The names of the four casualties from the shooting were released on Monday afternoon: Corbin Dahmontrey Holston, 23; Marsiah Emmanuel Collins, 19; Philstavious Dowdell, 18; and Shaunkivia (KeKe) Nicole Smith, 17.

Dadevilles police chief asked for patience with the investigation on Monday and for witnesses to come forward with pictures or information that could help solve the case.

I cannot stress this enough: We absolutely need you to share it, Sgt. Jeremy J. Burkett of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency said.
A fully-functional Senate Judiciary Committee could speed up the process to fill federal judge vacancies in California. But right now, that committee is not fully functional, and its unclear what will happen to the nominees.

In late January, President Joe Biden, a Democrat, nominated Monica Ramirez Almadani and Wesley Liu Hsu to fill gaps on the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California and Marian FitzGerald Gaston for the Southern District.

None of them, however, have been considered by the Senate. Why? Because California Sen. Dianne Feinsteins prolonged absence has forced the Senate Judiciary Committee to effectively pause confirming the presidents picks.

The committee vets the presidents choices for nominations before allowing the full Senate to vote on confirmation. To reach the Senate floor, a nominee must majority support of the 21-person committee.

Without Feinstein, the committee is split evenly among Democrats and Republicans. Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill., the Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman, told CNN, I cant consider nominees in these circumstances because a tie vote is a losing vote in committee.

The committee, which oversees judicial and executive nominations, has not approved anyone since mid-March and have held hearings for few nominees. The Senate confirmed 11 judicial nominees in March.

A spokesman for Feinstein said he did not have a comment about the nominees status.

Feinstein offered to step down but Republicans wont replace her

Feinstein, 89, has not been back to the U.S. Senate since being diagnosed with shingles in late February. In early March, her office revealed she was hospitalized. The California Democrats delayed arrival, coupled with questions about her mental fitness and age, has led some of her congressional colleagues to call for her resignation.

Under pressure, Feinstein offered to temporarily step off of the Judiciary Committee last week. Feinstein, who has been in the Senate since 1992, will retire after her term expires in 2025.

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Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said Tuesday he would try to have Sen. Ben Cardin, D-Md., fill Feinsteins seat. Cardin, a veteran lawmaker, is regarded as liberal but not far left.

But the full Senate needs 60 votes to replace her. In a slim majority, presently with Democrats controlling 50 seats and 49 Republicans, the vote must be bipartisan.

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., made it clear neither he nor other Senate Republicans wanted to help Democrats fill the seat. He said that Democrats are making good progress in confirming judges and need no further help.

The far left wants the full Senate to move a senator off a committee so they can ram through a small sliver of their nominees who are especially extreme or unqualified, McConnell said, saying four nominees who he did not name were unqualified.

So, even though they could move a number of less controversial nominees right now, h said. they want to sideline Senator Feinstein so they can ram through the worst four as well.

Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, the top Judiciary Committee Republican, said he would not go along with the Democratic plan, not the way theyre doing business unless they want to change all the committees and do it on a permanent basis.

Bidens nominees to be judges in California

Of the California nominees waiting to be heard by the Judiciary Committee, Ramirez Almadani is the CEO of Public Counsel, the nations largest pro bono law firm. Hsu and Gaston are judges on the Los Angeles County Superior Court and San Diego County Superior Court respectively.

Five nominees who could impact Californias judicial process have passed the Judiciary Committee but not been confirmed by the full Senate: P. Casey Pitts and Rita F. Lin for the Northern District, Kenly Kiya Kato and Hernan D. Vera for the Central District, and Anthony Devos Johnstone of Montana, who could fill a vacancy on the Ninth Circuit.

On Monday, Biden nominated Ana de Alba, a federal judge for the Eastern District of California, which includes Sacramento, Modesto and Fresno, to serve on the Ninth Circuit Appeals Court. Regardless of Feinsteins absence, it would take a while to get to her nomination.

Biden has put 119 judges, including Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, on the federal bench.

Not having Feinstein in the Senate in general could make it more difficult to confirm nominees who need more Democrats to get enough support.

Feinstein is not the only senator who has had to take time away recently.

McConnell and Sen. John Fetterman, D-Penn., returned Monday following weeks long medical issues. McConnell, 81, broke a rib and had a concussion from a fall at a Washington hotel on March 8. Fetterman, 53, sought inpatient treatment for clinical depression at Water Reed Army Medical Center in February; he was released in late March.

Schumer said he expects Feinstein to return to the Senate. They spoke Friday, and he said Tuesday, She and I are hopeful she will return very soon.
When Raquel Doke first noticed her face was puffy in April 2022, she chalked it up to a reaction from too much salty food. Months later, the veterinary resident, now 28, would be diagnosed with stage 4 adrenocortical carcinoma, a rare type of adrenal cancer.

In the spring of last year, Doke was completing a residency program at Iowa State University when her life took a sharp turn. Ironically, I was training in medical oncology when I was diagnosed with cancer, says Doke.

However, Doke's early symptoms did not initially raise alarm.

A former gymnast and college cheerleader, Raquel Doke has always been very active and healthy. (Courtesy Raquel Doke)

Subtle symptoms

In April 2022, Doke says she noticed her face looked swollen and rounder than usual. I got (takeout) for the first time in a long time, and the next morning was when I first noticed my face was puffy, so I thought it was because I had salty food, says Doke. But the puffiness didnt go away.

Doke then noticed bloating and discomfort in her upper abdomen. I ordered a dress in my size, and when I tried to zip it up, I couldnt fit into it anymore, says Doke, adding that she was unaware a large tumor was causing her abdomen to protrude.

Additionally, she started experiencing insomnia and an abnormal menstrual cycle. In May, she finally saw a doctor.

Doke, who has an underlying heart condition, says her provider did a variety of diagnostic blood tests, X-rays and an echocardiogram. Nothing was coming back abnormal so it wasnt my heart ... but I knew that something was wrong, she recalls.

By June, Doke's menstrual cycle had stopped entirely. I knew it was something with my hormones, she adds. After doing more research and tapping into her own medical knowledge, Doke says she suspected polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) or Cushing disease  which can both affect the hormones and menstrual cycle.

Doke says she couldnt get in to see an endocrinologist for several months but was able to convince her provider to give her a salivary cortisol test to see if she had Cushing disease, a disorder where the body makes too much of the hormone cortisol.

Story continues

The morning after dropping off her saliva sample, Doke had severe pain in her left abdomen. After doubling over on the floor in pain while trying to measure a dogs lymph nodes, Doke rushed to the emergency room.

At the ER, they ordered a CT scan of my abdomen, and they saw that I had an adrenal tumor and I was internally bleeding, says Doke. She had a large hematoma, or a pool of clotted blood, in her abdomen.

Doke underwent an emergency procedure to stop the bleeding and was transferred by helicopter to the University of Iowa, where doctors decided the hematoma made it too risky to remove the mass on her adrenal gland right away. She was moved to the intensive care unit.

They wanted to do more tests to figure out what exactly they were dealing with before they cut into me, says Doke, adding that the doctors were "99% sure" it was adrenal cancer.

The salivary cortisol test she had taken came back very high, Doke says, and she was diagnosed with Cushing disease, in addition to adrenal cancer. In Doke's case, her Cushing disease was caused by her adrenal tumor.

Raquel Doke says Taylor Swift's music has helped her get through difficult times during her cancer journey. (Courtesy Raquel Doke)

What is adrenal cancer?

Adrenal cancer is a rare cancer that can affect one of both of the adrenal glands, which sit on top of the kidneys and produce hormones that regulate essential body functions, per the Mayo Clinic. The type of adrenal cancer Doke has, adrenocortical carcinoma, grows on the outer layer of the gland.

They found evidence that the tumor was actually secreting hormones  cortisol and androgens  which were causing the symptoms, like swelling, Dr. Matthew Campbell, associate professor in the department of genitourinary medical oncology at MD Anderson and Dokes oncologist since October 2022, tells TODAY.com.

According to Campbell, the adrenal glands follow instructions from the pituitary glands to make hormones like cortisol, which is involved in blood pressure control. But adrenal tumors like Doke's don't rely on instructions from the pituitary glands, so "they start secreting these chemicals on their own, says Campbell.

The excess cortisol production leads to Cushing disease, which can cause high blood pressure, high blood sugar, muscle weakness, facial redness, weight gain and thin skin, Campbell says.

How is adrenal cancer treated?

Treating this type of cancer often involves surgery, chemotherapy, and controlling cortisol levels, Campbell says. In some ways, we're fighting two problems.  The cancer itself and the hormones the cancer is secreting, he adds.

Doctors may remove the original tumor to reduce the amount of cortisol produced, says Campbell, but cutting out large tumors like Dokes can be risky or cause the cancer to spread. These tumors are at extremely high risk of rupturing in the operating room, and if they do, they can leave behind cancer cells that begin growing throughout the abdomen, says Campbell.

This is a very rare tumor, and a lot of people have hesitation about the first move.  There was concern based on her initial scan that surgery wasnt going to be the best initial plan, says Campbell, adding that surgery should only be performed by a surgeon with a lot of experience treating this cancer.

In June 2022, Doke was transferred to the Mayo Clinic, where doctors tried out different therapies. I entered into a clinical trial where I was receiving immunotherapy and a drug that is not yet approved for the treatment of Cushings disease, says Doke.

Doke relocated to Houston to be treated by Dr. Campbell. (Courtesy Raquel Doke)

In August 2022, Doke says she developed congestive heart failure, and her Cushings was progressing. My face started getting much bigger, I got acne, I had extreme muscle wasting, says Doke. An MRI showed that the cancer was stage 4 and had spread to her liver, she says.

At that point, the doctor I was seeing said I have maybe one year left  which was really scary and upsetting, says Doke. Based on her own medical knowledge, she was hesitant to try chemotherapy because she thought it would only shrink her tumor at best and would severely diminish her quality of life.

I felt like we werent going to have an adequate chance for treatment until the tumor was removed," she adds.

In late August, Doke finally found a surgeon who was willing to remove her tumor, she says. We scheduled the surgery for the end of August, a week before he was about to retire, so I got super lucky, says Doke.

During the five-hour surgery, doctors removed a 13-centimeter adrenal tumor, one kidney, part of her diaphragm, several lymph nodes, lesions on the liver and part of her vena cava (the bodys largest vein). The recovery was long and difficult, Doke says.

A month after my surgery, we saw that I had disease progression in my liver, so at that point I needed chemotherapy, says Doke. In October, Doke relocated to Houston to be treated by Dr. Campbell.

After freezing her eggs, Doke started oral and intravenous chemotherapy in November 2022. Doke says the side effects, especially losing her hair, were "traumatizing." She did six rounds of the IV chemo, and now she's doing IV immunotherapy in addition to the oral chemo.

At this time  she is in a deep partial remission from her cancer, and we are following her carefully, says Campbell.

At the end of April 2023, Doke is scheduled to have an ablation procedure, which involves using heat to kill tumor cells. "Hopefully that will help me progress from partial remission, she says.

Courtesy Raquel Doke

Adrenal cancer prognosis, incidence

The prognosis for adrenocortical carcinoma varies widely, says Campbell. Once the cancer has spread outside the adrenal glands, patients can live for as little as three months or past five years, he notes. The majority of patients will succumb to their cancer within a year to three years of diagnosis, says Campbell.

There are only one to two cases per million U.S. citizens per year, says Campbell. Many primary care providers never see a patient with adrenal cancer, and the majority of oncologists may see one or two patients in their careers because it is so rare, he adds.

There are an estimated 400 to 600 cases annually in the United States, says Campbell, and about 60% of those are women.

Its not clear exactly what causes adrenal cancer, and most cases are sporadic, but certain genetic syndromes can increase the risk, says Campbell. Adrenal cancer can occur in people of any age, including young children, he adds.

Adrenal cancer can be difficult to diagnose especially early on, says Campbell. The cancer grows in an area of your body where it doesnt tend to cause a lot of symptoms, he adds. Moreover, the symptoms of the cancer and hormonal changes can be subtle and slow progressing  such as weight gain, trouble sleeping, abdominal pain, and fatigue, per Johns Hopkins.

These are often misdiagnosed while the cancer spreads, says Campbell. When tumors are making cortisol, it tends to be hard because a lot of primary care doctors are thinking about much more common diagnoses that result in a spike in blood pressure, for example, says Campbell.

Unfortunately, patients are often diagnosed late. Half of the patients diagnosed every year have stage 4 cancer when theyre diagnosed. Its rare that we catch patients when the cancer is just beginning, says Campbell.

As for Doke, she says hopes her story inspires people to listen to their body and speak up. "I think having my medical knowledge helped, but it's really important to advocate for yourself. ... If something doesn't feel right, see a doctor and make sure that they're covering all their bases," she says.

Raquel Doke and her boyfriend. (Courtesy Raquel Doke)

Today, Doke lives in Houston with her boyfriend and has paused work and school to focus on her treatment. One thing that has helped Doke cope with all the emotions during her cancer journey is music. She credits the lyrical prowess of Taylor Swift for helping her get through the past year. "I would listen to her when I would sit in the dark before PET scans, in the waiting room," she says.

When Doke was unable to get tickets for Swift's "Eras" tour, her friends encouraged her to post on TikTok to try to find a seller. "It was the first time I was on social media without my hair and the first time I really opened up about everything," says Doke, adding that she received an outpouring of support.

An alumni of her alma mater, Villanova University, offered to buy her two tickets to Swift's show in Houston on April 23.

"The amount of love and kindness I have experienced during this entire process has been really uplifting," says Doke.

"I don't know how long I have. ... What's important is to treat every day like it's important and like it's special. ... Do something that makes you happy and cherish your relationships with everyone," says Doke.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
Nalah T. Jackson, 24, left, a transient woman charged with kidnapping twin Columbus boys when she stole their mother's car in December, pleaded guilty Tuesday in unrelated cases to one count each of grand theft of a motor vehicle and attempting to receive stolen property for stealing two vehicles earlier in December and crashing them. She was represented in the plea agreement by defense attorney Priya D. Tamilarasan, right.

A transient Columbus woman authorities have accused of stealing a running car with twin infant boys during the week before Christmas pleaded guilty Tuesday to unrelated charges in Franklin County Common Pleas Court.

Nalah T. Jackson, 24, admitted to previously stealing two vehicles on Dec. 2 and crashing them.

As part of a plea agreement with Franklin County Prosecutor's Office, Jackson pleaded guilty to one count each of grand theft of a motor vehicle and attempting to receive stolen property.

Franklin County Common Pleas Judge Karen Phipps sentenced Jackson to 90 days in jail as jointly recommended by prosecutors and Jackson's defense attorney, Priya D. Tamilarasan. Phipps also ordered Jackson to pay $500 in restitution to one of the victims of the car thefts.

Jackson said in court Tuesday she's grateful for this plea agreement so she can be transferred to a mental health treatment facility.

In the Dec. 2 incident, according to the Franklin County Prosecutor's Office, Jackson crashed a stolen vehicle near the intersection of Bridge Street and Frantz Road in Dublin. The vehicle Jackson was in  which was reported stolen in Columbus earlier that day  flipped on its side.

A woman got out of her vehicle and helped Jackson out of the window. Jackson then got in the woman's vehicle and drove off, Dublin police said.

Jackson only made it a short distance, however, before driving through a red light and causing another accident in the second stolen vehicle, according to the prosecutor's office.

More: Kidnapping suspect charged with stealing other vehicles before car with infant twins

Jackson will remain incarcerated while she waits for her jury trial scheduled for Oct. 10 in Columbus on federal kidnapping charges. If convicted in that case, Jackson faces 20 years to life in prison on each of the two kidnapping counts.

The federal charges are from Dec. 19 when Columbus police said that Jackson stole a running 2010 Honda from outside a Donatos Pizza in the Short North with five-month-old twin boys Ky'air and Kason Thomas inside as their mother ran inside the pizza shop to get a Door Dash order for delivery.

Story continues

Ky'air was recovered the following morning in the parking lot of the Dayton International Airport. Kason was recovered Dec. 22 in his mother's car in the parking lot of an Indianapolis pizza shop. The infant boy was found hours after Jackson had been arrested by Indianapolis police, thanks to the efforts of two women cousins who alerted them.

Ky'air died from unrelated circumstances on Jan. 29, with the family reporting he stopped breathing at his home. He was transported to Nationwide Children's Hospital where he was later pronounced dead.

The Franklin County Coroner's Office ruled in March that Ky'air's death was the result of Sudden Unexplained Infant Death and that an unsafe sleep environment was a significant factor in the death. According to the autopsy, 6-month-old Ky'air was placed face down on an adult bed with excess bedding and pillows unsupervised after being fed.

Related: Report: Columbus police miscommunication led to AMBER Alert delay in twins kidnapping

jlaird@dispatch.com

@LairdWrites

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Twins kidnapping suspect pleads guilty in unrelated car theft case
A former physician assistant was sentenced to federal prison for her role in a healthcare fraud scheme.

In September 2019, Theresa Pickering, 55, of Norcross, was hired as a licensed physicians assistant at a family practice in Norcross.

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Court documents show that Pickering was not a licensed physician assistant in Georgia at that time. Since March 2014, she reportedly hadnt been a licensed physicians assistant in any state.

Before relocating to Georgia and being hired as a licensed physician assistant at the Norcross-based family practice, Pickering was sentenced to prison in 2015.

She was sentenced for a fraud and narcotics case related to illegal practices as a physician assistant in Mississippi, the release states.

TRENDING STORIES:

While working at the Norcross practice, federal officials said Pickering treated patients, diagnosed illnesses, ordered diagnostic tests and lab work, handled sick visits and prescribed drugs to patients, which she was reportedly not authorized by law to do.

Authorities said she also issued prescriptions, including for controlled substances, without the doctors permission. According to the release, this caused the practice to submit nearly $147,000 in fraudulent claims for reimbursement to Medicare and several private insurance companies.

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Pickering did not learn from her previous fraud conviction. Instead, she chose to continue to endanger patient lives through theft and lies, said Keri Farley, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta.

On Tuesday, Pickering was sentenced to two years and nine months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. She was also ordered to pay $48,742.30 in restitution.

IN OTHER NEWS:




Kaylin Gillis lost her life in a tragic shooting in Upstate New York

A 20-year-old woman was shot dead in New York state after her friend mistakenly pulled into the wrong driveway.

Kaylin Gillis was met with gunfire upon making the wrong turn onto the driveway of Kevin Monahan in the town of Hebron.

Monahan, 65, allegedly fired two shots from his porch as Ms Gillis and her three friends attempted to turn the car around, according to the Washington County sheriff, Jeff Murphy.

Ms Gillis was hit by one round.

"This is a very sad case of some young adults who were looking for a friend's house and ended up at this man's house who decided to come out with a firearm and discharge it," Sheriff Murphy told a news conference.

Days after Ralph Yarl shooting

The shooting came just days after Ralph Yarl, a black teenager, was shot in Kansas City, Missouri, after ringing the doorbell of the wrong house when attempting to pick up his younger brothers.

Andrew Lester, 85, who is white, has been charged with one count of felony assault in the first degree and one count of armed criminal action.

The area where the New York shooting too place is rural and driveways are poorly lit at night. None of the group exited the vehicle or walked towards Monahans house.

Ralph Yarl, a black teenager, was shot in Kansas City - LEE MERRITT

"There's clearly no threat from anyone in the vehicle," Sheriff Murphy said. "There's no reason for Mr Monahan to feel threatened."

After the shooting the group drove to nearby Salem, north-east of Albany, where they called emergency services.

Paramedics arrived and performed CPR on Ms Gillis but were unable to save her.

When officers arrived at Monahans property he refused to come out and spoke to a 9/11 dispatcher for over an hour before he was taken into custody, according to police.

He has been charged with second degree murder.

Sheriff Murphy described Ms Gillis, who lived in Schuylerville, New York, as an innocent young girl who was out with friends looking for another friends house.

A GoFundMe page has been created to help her family "with funeral and other expenses".
Tuberculosis bacteria CDC

A woman with untreated tuberculosis has refused 16 court orders to isolate at home.

She was last spotted boarding a bus to a casino in Tacoma, Washington.

Tuberculosis can be treated with antibiotics, but it can be contagious if left alone.

A Washington state woman known to be contagious with tuberculosis was recently spotted boarding a bus to a local casino, in defiance of several court orders to isolate at home and a warrant for her arrest, NBC News reported April 12.

The woman, whose name has not been released to the public but is referred to as "V.N." in court documents, has refused multiple orders from the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department (TPCHD) to isolate and resume treatment for TB since she stopped taking her prescribed medication more than a year ago.

Tuberculosis infections were once extremely deadly, but now can be treated with the antibiotic isoniazid  though it must be taken daily for six to 12 months depending on the severity of disease. Not completing that course of treatment can make the disease harder to fight in the future, according to the American Lung Association.

Untreated TB can spread from person to person, but not as easily as the virus that causes COVID-19. Catching TB usually requires spending extended time with a contagious person in a closed space, local health officials said in a news release. Because of low rates of tuberculosis in the United States, most people in the US aren't vaccinated against the disease.

For a disease that's as dangerous as TB, refusing treatment and ignoring isolation orders can lead to legal consequences. Here's a timeline of the Washington woman's treatment history and how she ended up on the run.

The patient started treatment for TB, but failed to complete it

Chest x-ray shows a lung infection. Visoot Uthairam/Getty Images

The health department requested an involuntary isolation order for the infected woman on January 18, 2022, the Tacoma News Tribune reported. According to court filings obtained by the local newspaper, the woman started treatment for TB, but didn't complete the full course of medication.

Story continues

Since the woman declined to follow through with her prescribed treatment, health officials enlisted the help of the Pierce County Superior Court to make sure she was not putting others at risk.

According to the News Tribune, the court issued an order stating that the patient must isolate at home for a set period of time and cooperate with testing and treatment.

"This is less restrictive than a detention facility; however if such measures are not effective, more stringent measures may be requested," the court order read, per the News Tribune.

As the patient flouted court orders, health officials doubled down

The woman was ordered to isolate at home if she refused treatment. Westend61/Getty Images

Through regular visits to the patient's residence and communication with the doctors in charge of her treatment, it was determined that she "[had] not remained in her residence in accord with the court's order, nor [had] she treated or tested to determine the status of her tuberculosis infection," according to court filings obtained by the News Tribune.

This resulted in two more court orders for involuntary isolation issued February 24 and March 24, the local news outlet reported.

In the request for renewal of these orders, health officials warned that one patient's actions could pose a threat to the health of the community. Failure to comply with TB treatment can fuel the development of antibiotic-resistant strains, which are much harder to treat and more dangerous to those infected.

In March, the court also ordered an attorney to represent the woman, according to the News Tribune.

The court orders continued throughout 2022

A judge uses a gavel in a courtroom. Naruecha Jenthaisong/Getty Images

On April 15 2022, the health department filed another petition alleging that the patient had not remained in her residence "in accord with the court's order."

The court renewed its order for continued involuntary isolation on April 19, and then again on May 17, June 28, July 27, August 25, September 27, October 21, November 18 and December 16, according to the News Tribune.

"Most people we contact are happy to get the treatment they need," Nigel Turner, director of Communicable Disease Control at the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department, said in a news release in January 2023. "Occasionally people refuse treatment and isolation. When that happens, we take steps to help keep the community safe."

The patient was in a car crash in January 2023

Police tape at a car accident scene. Jasmin Merdan/Getty Images

On January 11 2023, health officials reported to the court that the patient was involved in a car wreck. She visited an emergency department complaining of chest pains the next day, the News Tribune reported.

"She reported that she was a passenger in a vehicle driven by another. This admission means that she was not in isolation," the health department's petition said per the News Tribune. While the isolation order would permit her to leave her home for medical care, the petition alleged that the patient did not tell the ER staff that she had active TB, and therefore put them at risk.

X-rays taken during her ER visit revealed that the woman's TB had progressed, which would suggest that she was not complying with treatment, according to the health department. What's more, she also tested positive for COVID-19, further indicating that she was not isolating at home.

A judge issued a warrant for her arrest in March 2023

After two more court orders issued January 20 and February 24, Judge Philip Sorensen of the Pierce County Superior Court issued an arrest warrant for the woman who had refused TB treatment for more than a year, the News Tribune reported. This means that police officers have the ability to arrest and detain her and bring her to a facility where she will be treated for TB against her will.

The judge also upheld his previous orders, which required that the woman be confined at the county jail or an alternative facility for treatment and isolation until she was deemed safe to be discharged.

The woman's court-appointed attorney, Sarah Tofflemire, has suggested that her client may need a legal guardian to help her understand what is going on, according to the News Tribune. Court records show that the woman has had a foreign language interpreter present for all proceedings, but she has still not acknowledged the existence of her own medical condition.

"She has primarily focused on how she dislikes papers coming to her home, and not the import of the process in which she finds herself," Tofflemire said, according to the News Tribune. "She has repeatedly threatened suicide in relationship to papers being served upon her home," and has also spoken erratically and out of turn during court proceedings.

Last week, she disappeared after boarding the bus to a local casino

Casino table. Andy Kirby/Getty Images

In April, an officer who was following the woman saw her board a bus to a local casino, according to a court filing obtained by NBC News. For reasons unknown, the officer let her go.

Now, the woman has been found in contempt of the court and has been ordered to be treated against her will. But as of April 12, authorities had not located her since she was seen boarding the bus, NBC reported.

Read the original article on Insider
HARTFORD, Conn. (AP)  Connecticut divers have discovered the wreckage of an experimental submarine that was built in 1907 and later scuttled in Long Island Sound.

The Defender, a 92-foot-long (28-meter-long) boat, was found Sunday by a team led by Richard Simon, a commercial diver from Coventry, Connecticut.

Simon said he had been interested in the story of the Defender for years. He spent months going over known sonar and underwater mapping surveys of the bottom of the sound, as well as government documents obtained under the Freedom of Information Act, to identify any anomaly that fit the size of the sub.

A submarine has a very distinct shape, he said. It needs to be 100 feet long and 13 feet in diameter. So I made a list of everything that was that long and there was one target on that list.

Simon then assembled a group of top wreck divers to determine if the Defender was in the location he had identified.

Poor tidal conditions forced them to abandon an attempt last Friday. They returned on Sunday and discovered the Defender lying on the bottom, more than 150 feet (45 meters) beneath the water's surface, off the coast of Old Saybrook.

It was legitimately hiding in plain sight, he said. Its on the charts. Its known about in Long Island Sound, just no one knew what it was.

Simon described the agony of waiting on the deck of his research vessel, staring at a dive buoy in the fog and waiting for his two divers to surface. Once they did and confirmed they had found a sub, the team erupted in pure joy, he said.

Simon said he didn't want to give the exact depth, because he said that could give away the sub's location.

The submarine, originally named the Lake, was built by millionaire Simon Lake and his Bridgeport-based Lake Torpedo Boat Company in hopes of winning a competition for a U.S. Navy contract, according to NavSource Online, a website dedicated to preserving naval history.

It was experimental vessel, with wheels to move along the sea bottom and a door that allowed divers to be released underwater, Simon said.

Story continues

The company lost that competition and Lake then tried refitting the boat for minesweeping, salvage and rescue work, renaming it the Defender. But he never found a buyer. It was a well-known sub and was even visited by aviator Amelia Earhart in 1929, Simon said.

But the submarine spent many years unused, docked in New London before eventually being abandoned on a mud flat near Old Saybrook. It was scuttled by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 1946, but the corps never disclosed where, Simon said.

Simon said it was clear when his team found the wreckage that it was indeed the Defender. The length, the size and shape of protrusions on the submarines distinct keel, and the shape and location of diving planes characteristic of Lake-built vessels, all helped identify it, he said.

Simon and his team plan to spend the summer diving on the sub, filming it and taking photographs. He said he and the company he and his wife own, Shoreline Diving, put up the money for the search. He said he hasnt figured out how to monetize the find, but said that wasnt the goal in looking for it.

He has already contacted the Navy to see if it would be interested in helping preserve the wreckage.

The ship has some protections under what is known as the Abandoned Shipwreck Act, a 1988 law that would allow it to be treated as an archaeological or historical site instead of a commercial property to be salvaged, he said..

So, as a wreck diver, I can go visit history; I can touch it; I can experience it, he said. It's just a different connection to history, to the past that we don't have in any other activity.
Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra violated the Hatch Act when he expressed support for Democratic Sen. Alex Padillas election at an event last year, a government watchdog said Tuesday.

While speaking at the Congressional Hispanic Caucus annual awards gala in September, Becerra said he intended to vote for the California senator. The U.S. Office of Special Counsel, which handles disclosing wrongdoing within the federal government, said Becerra expressed his personal electoral preference while in his official capacity.

The Hatch Act prohibits federal employees, while acting in their official capacity, from affecting or interfering with elections.

While federal employees are permitted to express support for candidates when speaking in their personal capacity. the Hatch Act restricts employees from doing so when speaking as a government official, Special Counsel Henry J. Kerner wrote in a letter attached to the report.

While I did not realize at the time that my off-the-cuff remarks concerning my personal voting intentions were in violation of the Hatch Act, I now understand why they were not permitted, Becerra said in a statement within the report. Becerra added that he received counseling on the Hatch Act from his departments ethics division.

At the gala, Becerra said, To my brother, my friend and Senator, and someone I will be voting for in a little bit more than a month, Alex Padilla, thank you so much, Senator, for being there for all of us.

Becerra, a Democrat born and raised in Sacramento, still calls the city home. He was Californias attorney general before President Joe Biden tapped him to lead the Department of Health and Human Services.

A federal employee who violates the Hatch Act is subject to a wide range of disciplinary actions, including expulsion from service or a fine or simply a letter of reprimand.

The Office of the Special Counsel sent the report to Biden to take appropriate action. The office itself can recommend punishments but not enforce them.

Story continues

A spokesman for the White House said that it did not have a comment. A spokesman for Becerra did not respond to a voicemail.

This will very likely be it for disciplining Becerra, said Norman Eisen, a White House ethics czar in former President Barack Obamas administration. Becerra handled the situation correctly, he said, by apologizing, receiving training and promising not to do it again.

He made lemonade out of the lemon, Eisen said in a telephone interview.

Eisen said this was a good lesson for others on the Hatch Act and how to handle violations.

Thirteen senior officials under former President Donald Trumps administration violated the Hatch Act in months leading up to the 2020 election, according to the office. In 2019, the agency recommended Trump remove Kellyanne Conway, his former White House counselor, from office over repeat offenses. He did not.

Instead of doing the right thing, Eisen said, they doubled down and created an environment of lawlessness.
A health worker collects a swab sample for COVID-19 test on April 15 in Noida, India. (Getty Images)

Theres a new variant of the coronavirus that infectious disease experts and public health officials are keeping a close eye on. XBB.1.16, also known as Arcturus, is an Omicron subvariant that appears to be more transmissible and has fueled a recent surge of COVID-19 cases in India. While the variant is circulating at low levels in the U.S., health officials are closely monitoring it.

The World Health Organization warned about XBB.1.16 last month and labeled it a variant of monitoring, a designation that isnt as serious as a variant of interest. However, that status could change if the variant shows signs of increased transmissibility or virulence, or is able to evade antibodies, the WHO noted.

XBB.1.16 has now been detected in at least 29 countries, including the U.S. and it is expanding its reach fairly quickly. In late February, XBB.1.16 accounted for only 0.21% of all COVID-19 cases worldwide. A month later, that had increased to 3.96%, according to the WHOs latest figures.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention began reporting cases of XBB.1.16 last Friday. According to the latest CDC data, the variant now accounts for 7% of new COVID-19 cases nationwide.

Heres what to know about Arcturus, or XBB.1.16

What is XBB.1.16? Is it more dangerous?

XBB.1.16 is a sublineage of the Omicron variant thats similar to XBB.1.5, the strain that has dominated infections in the U.S. since January. But XBB.1.16, the WHO noted, has a mutation in the viruss spike protein that has been associated with increased transmissibility and potentially a higher degree of infection. However, some experts have said that while it looks like it could spread more quickly and lead to more cases, it doesnt appear to cause more severe disease.

In India, the variant has led to a surge in COVID-19 cases in recent weeks. On Tuesday, India's Health Ministry reported 61,233 COVID-19 cases, which is a notable increase from the 15,208 cases that were reported on March 31. However, hospitalizations have not surged significantly.

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I doubt it will lead to too many new hospitalizations or deaths, Dr. Monica Gandhi, an infectious disease specialist and a professor of medicine at the University of California, San Francisco, told Yahoo News. I was just in India. ... There was an increase in cases but not an increase in hospitalizations, she added.

Gandhi explained that the coronavirus wont be fully eradicated, so it will continue to evolve and new forms of it will continue to emerge. However, she said new variants won't necessarily become more dangerous. She added that most of the population has immunity from either the vaccines, infection, or both, and that will continue to protect most individuals against the worst outcomes of the disease.

I think this is where we are. We're gonna have to live with this [virus] and we're going to see cases go up and down if we get a new subvariant that's more transmissible, but hopefully, it will not lead to an increase in severe disease, Gandhi said.

Does the new variant cause different symptoms?

On Tuesday, the FDA authorized a second dose of the bivalent booster for seniors and immunocompromised people. (Getty Images)

According to anecdotal reports coming from India and other parts of the world, including the U.S., XBB.1.16 may cause a new COVID-19 symptom not seen with previous coronavirus strains. Some doctors have said the new variant seems to be causing conjunctivitis, often called pink eye, in children and adolescents.

In a recent tweet, Vipin M. Vashishtha, an Indian pediatrician who is also a member of the WHO's Vaccine Safety Net program, said he had started to get pediatric COVID-19 cases again, and more children who are sick with XBB.1.16 are experiencing itchy conjunctivitis with sticky eyes.

The Mayo Clinic also reported on Thursday that experts are seeing the same eye symptoms in young patients who are sick with COVID-19.

Dr. Michael Chang, a pediatric infectious diseases expert at UTHealth Houston and Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, told Yahoo News that many things can cause pink eye. He said that at the moment theres not enough evidence to say that the new COVID variant is causing conjunctivitis in children.

We don't have the context of whether they're seeing that in some of the regions in India. We know their COVID cases are going up, and presumably, these kids are testing positive for COVID, but we don't know if they're testing positive for anything else either, Chang said.

He explained that other viruses can cause conjunctivitis. Adenovirus, which can cause a mild cold or flu-like illness and can be easily confused with COVID-19, is one of them. Cases of adenovirus tend to increase in the spring and summer, and Chang said doctors in the U.S. are seeing more of it these days.

We are seeing adenovirus circulating, so even if COVID cases go up, unless you're doing testing for both COVID and adenovirus, which most people aren't  it may be difficult [to determine] what's causing your pink eye.

Are our COVID-19 vaccines effective against XBB.1.16?

Some doctors say XBB.1.16 may be causing a new symptom among children: conjunctivitis. (Getty Images)

When a new variant of the coronavirus emerges, one concern that arises is whether our current vaccines will protect us against that strain.

It is too early to know how well the COVID-19 vaccines neutralize XBB.1.16. However, some experts believe the shots should remain effective at preventing severe illness and death, even if XBB.1.16 is found to be able to evade antibodies from vaccines. Gandhi explained that this is because, aside from antibodies, there are other parts of the immune system that are activated with vaccination and infection, such as B cells and T cells, which can also offer long-lasting protection against the virus.

Although theres no reason to be concerned right now, Gandhi said that whenever theres a new, more transmissible variant, people who are older and those who are immunocompromised are at the highest risk for complications. She urged those groups to stay up to date with vaccination, particularly getting the bivalent booster if they havent received it yet.

If you're in an older or vulnerable group, if you are someone who is over 65 or on immunosuppressants or have multiple comorbidities, just go out and get a booster, she said.

On Tuesday, the FDA authorized a second dose of the bivalent COVID-19 vaccine for seniors and immunocompromised people. The CDCs Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices  a group of outside experts who advise the agency on vaccines  is scheduled to meet on Wednesday to discuss the strategy. If these experts recommend the shots, CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky is likely to sign off on their use and they could become available as early as this week.

Cover thumbnail photo: Getty Images
New York Attorney General Letitia James is hosting the states first gun buyback later this month, her office announced on Tuesday, in an effort to curb gun violence.

The AGs office will pay $500 per assault rifle or ghost gun, $500 for the first handgun turned in per person and smaller dollar amounts for various other firearms turned in on-site at nine events statewide on April 29, according to a release.

Both working and non-working unloaded firearms will be accepted in exchange for prepaid gift cards with no questions asked, the office said, though the weapons are required to be turned in within a bag or box. There is also no limit on the number of weapons that can be turned in.

This is an amnesty program, in which no questions will be asked about the person dropping off the gun, the AGs office stressed.

The buyback events, held in conjunction with local law enforcement, will be held in a variety of New York locations at varying times on the 29th.

Were doing everything we can to get dangerous guns off our streets and stop gun violence, James said on Twitter.

Jamess gun buyback announcement comes in the wake of mass shootings in Kentucky, Tennessee and Alabama in recent weeks, and amid renewed debate about gun violence in America.

The move also comes as House Republicans try to scrutinize crime in New York City, where former President Trump was hit with criminal charges earlier this month by the Manhattan District Attorney.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
South Africa: Electoral Commission welcomes signing of the Electoral Amendment Bill

The Electoral Commission has welcomed the signing into law of the Electoral Amendment Bill.

The Commission says the assent by the President provides the necessary legal certainty required to prepare for the National and Provincial Elections which will be held in 2024.

Such certainty in the legal framework can only augur well for the Electoral Commission, the voting public, possible contestants, observers and other interested stakeholders, the Electorial Commission said.

The foremost implications of the Act are as follows:

For the first time individuals who are not associated with political parties will stand as candidates for elections into legislatures and the National Assembly.

It commits the country to a process of Electoral reform beyond the 2024 elections.

Now that the policy choices for the coming elections have been made, the Electoral Commission will move with deliberate speed to finalise the supporting business applications necessary for the implementation of the Act.

These include, among others:

Rewriting the Candidate Nomination System to facilitate the participation of independent candidates and unrepresented political parties together with a portal to enable candidates to capture the details of voters who support their candidature;

Redeveloping the Results System to facilitate the recordal of votes cast in favour of independent candidates and translating these into seats where the relevant threshold is met;

Updating platforms and mechanisms of liaison with parties to also include independent candidates;

Reviewing the Political Party Funding legislation in order to include funding of elected independents; and

Ensuring enactment of consequential amendments and regulations to enable the realization of the objects of the Act.

The Commission has now approved an integrated chart of electoral milestones which contains all activities and timelines that underpin preparations for 2024 National and Provincial Elections. In this regard the Commission wishes to highlight the following:

Independent Candidates

The Act determines the participation of independent candidates on the following basis:

An independent candidate may be nominated to contest in one or more regions but may only be elected to one seat in the National Assembly.

An independent candidate may only be nominated to stand in a provincial legislature in a province in which they are registered.

An independent candidate may only be a member of either the National Assembly or a provincial legislature.

A prescribed declaration confirming that the candidate has submitted names, identity numbers and signatures of voters who support his or her candidature:

In relation to the election of the National Assembly, the names must equal 15 per cent of the number of votes required to obtain a seat for that region in the preceding election if contesting only one region o 15 per cent of the highest of the quotas in the preceding election, if intending to contest in more than one region.

Where the 15 percent of the highest of quotas is not achieved, that independent candidate may only contest in the region or regions as determined by the next highest quota met

In relation to a provincial legislature, 15 per cent of the votes required to obtain a seat in the preceding election, in respect of that province.

Further requirements include:

Candidates must pay a prescribed deposit. Deposits paid by independent candidates may be different from those paid by political parties.

Candidates must undertake to be bound by the Electoral Code of Conduct.

Candidates must sign a declaration that they are not disqualified in terms of the Constitution.

In respect of provincial elections, candidates must sign a declaration that they are registered in that province.

Registered political parties that do not have seats in any legislature or the National Assembly will have to meet the same 15 percent quota requirement and also pay a deposit.

Ballot Papers

The participation of independent candidates in elections of the National Assembly as a consequence of the signed law, has the following noteworthy implications:

The amended Act provides for an additional ballot paper in the election of the National Assembly thereby offering voters a non-binary choice of either a party or independent.

The effect of this is that the regional and compensatory ballots are separate (two ballots instead of a single ballot as was previously the case).

The regional ballot for the National Assembly includes parties and independents. The other (national) ballot contains only parties in order to restore proportionality.

The ballots for the regional seats in the National Assembly will be region-specific in a manner similar to provincial legislature ballots.

The introduction of the second ballot for the election of the National Assembly, results in an increased number of ballot papers to be printed without the corresponding increase in time lines. Thus the ballot printing window remains an immutable 28 days.

The number of ballot papers for provincial legislature elections remains unchanged at one ballot per province. These will contain the names of parties and independent candidates.

Voter Registration

Ahead of each election, the Electoral Commission undertakes registration drives to register new voters and to enable already registered voters to inspect and where necessary update their registration details. These drives result in updating of the voters roll.

For this purpose, the Electoral Commission announces that it will open its network of approximately 24 000 voting stations over the weekend of 18 and 19 November 2023 to register new voters for the forthcoming elections and to facilitate inspection of the roll.

Voting station based registration represents the most equitable manner of equalising access to the vote.

Additional modalities of registration have also been implemented to facilitate continuous registration.

Those with access to the internet may register, inspect and update their details at any time before the proclamation of the elections by visiting www.elections.org.za.

Voters may also visit the local offices of the Commission in each municipality or take advantage of the various activation campaigns that the Commission will undertake in various areas to register and update their details.

Vote where you are registered

In National and Provincial Elections, voters vote at the voting station where they are registered. However, the Electoral Act had provided for an exception.

This exception was intended to facilitate the continued franchise of persons who unavoidably found themselves outside areas in which they were registered on voting day.

However, over time, this well-meaning provision has been misused in a manner that may imperil proper administration of elections and creates perceptions that some voters are able to vote more times than they are entitled to.

The new framework now provides that those who, for unavoidable reasons, are likely to find themselves outside of their voting station of registration, must give prior notice of their intention to vote at a different voting station.

The Commission reiterates that with the assent of the Bill certainty has now been created in the planning framework for the 2024 National and Provincial Elections. Our time is short and we cannot afford any delay, the Commission said.

All electoral stakeholders are asked to start their preparations in order to avoid missing immutable electoral timelines.  SAnews.gov.za

This story has been published on: 2023-04-18. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
G7 foreign ministers want to show unity, but the outside world sees rifts

09:59, April 18, 2023 By Global Times editorial ( Global Times

The G7 Foreign Ministers' Meeting, which took place from April 16 to 18 in Nagano, Japan, served as a preview of the G7 summit scheduled to be held in May. Generally, the tone set by the foreign ministers' meeting is likely to be similar to that of the G7 summit. The G7 foreign ministers' joint statement, which reflects the main tone of the meeting, will be released on April 18, but the key points have already been leaked by several foreign media outlets, indicating that the "tensions over China will be high on the agenda" of the meeting.

According to reports, at working dinner on April 16, the foreign ministers of the G7 countries reaffirmed the "importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Straits," and also stated that maintaining unity among the G7 is "extremely important" in addressing the various challenges in the Indo-Pacific." Some media analysts believe that the urgent need to demonstrate so-called "unity" and the blatant interference in China's sovereignty reflects possible anxiety raised by Macron's call for the EU not to become a "follower" of Washington on the Taiwan question. There are also analysts who believe that there is a possibility of cracks appearing within the G7.

Overall, this G7 foreign ministers' meeting has two main characteristics. Firstly, it continues and intensifies the ideological and new Cold War atmosphere of the G7, further pushing a complete shift for the G7 from a rich countries' club focusing on global governance and economic issues towards a geopolitical tool which promotes bloc confrontation. Secondly, as the host of the G7 presidency this year, Japan has added a pungent Japanese seasoning to the traditional American formula of the G7 meeting. Specifically, this includes a focus on interfering in the Taiwan question, hyping the "China threat" theory, and seeking G7 support for its plan to dump nuclear-contaminated wastewater into the sea.

As the sole Asian member of the G7, every time Tokyo hosts a G7 summit, it seeks to actively assert its "Western identity" on Asian soil and thereby gain a stronger presence. While Japan is strengthening the G7's China containment functions under Washington's direction and trying to achieve a political rallying of the US alliance system close to China, it is also stuffing the group with its own selfish interests. This has not played any positive role and should be condemned by all parties. It is reported that the G7 UK Summit in 2021 first made a fuss about the Taiwan question in a joint statement, which was secretly promoted by Japan under the encouragement of the US. This time, with Japan hosting the G7, its impulse to rope in external forces to interfere in the Taiwan Straits is even more blatant, making the G7 more and more of an actual external threat to peace and stability in the Taiwan Straits.

It is ironic that while the G7 foreign ministers are eagerly showing focus "in unanimity outwards" with the efforts of Japan, the G7 is facing a crisis of trust brought on by the leak of confidential documents revealing US monitoring allies, as well as the growing sense of independence and autonomy in Europe that is challenging the transatlantic alliance. These fissures are prominent and weaken the G7's unified voice on some issues, making the solidarity displayed by the G7 foreign ministers seem deliberate and unnatural. The role that the US now assigns to the G7 is, to put it plainly, G1, a small circle led by the US that follows order from Washington. However, this is the idealistic G7 that Washington hopes for, and in reality, it is not the case.

It is worth noting that the joint statement issued by G7 Meeting on Climate, Energy and the Environment on Sunday did not provide the support that Japan had hoped for regarding its plan to discharge nuclear-contaminated wastewater into the sea. Germany's Minister for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection Steffi Lemke even protested during the press conference, stating that she "cannot welcome the release of the treated water." It is well known that Asian neighboring countries such as China and South Korea have long been strongly opposed to Japan's plan to discharge nuclear-contaminated wastewater into the sea, but the US has been lenient. The open disagreement within the G7 indicates that in today's world, where the interests of all people are closely intertwined and our destinies are shared, it is difficult to continue promoting the Cold War-style ideological division of blocs, even within the Western world. The continuously emerging and increasingly severe global issues present a strong need for solidarity and cooperation among all human beings. Engaging in bloc confrontation goes against the tide and will inevitably encounter greater resistance.

Frankly speaking, the representativeness of G7 in the international community has significantly declined. When it was established in the 1970s, G7 countries accounted for 70 percent of the global economy, but now this share has dropped to about 40 percent. According to the World Bank's estimation, from 2013 to 2021, the total contribution of G7 countries to global economic growth is less than that of China alone. The representativeness of G7 in terms of population is even less, as its member countries account for less than 10 percent of the world's population. Nowadays, as Washington wants to further turn G7 into a "coordinated command center" under the US State Department, and its bloc confrontational nature is becoming more and more pronounced, it brings more destructive rather than constructive effects to the world.

"Unity" is now the most commonly shouted slogan when G7 countries gather. Although G7 as a whole maintains a relatively consistent attitude on the surface, this is more a forceful expression of Washington's interests and the forced bundling of promoting confrontational blocs. In fact, the debate on whether to independently develop foreign relations or be a vassal of the US has already emerged in the West. Against this backdrop, no matter how G7 wants to show "unity", one thing is certain: no matter what group or alliance, if it deliberately creates opposition and friction, its future will be one of decline.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Wu Chaolan)
Unfortunately, our website is currently unavailable in your country. We are engaged on the issue and committed to looking at options that support our full range of digital offerings to your market. We continue to identify technical compliance solutions that will provide all readers with our award-winning journalism.
A New York homeowner has shot and killed a woman who went to the wrong house with a group of friends  in eerily similar circumstances to the shooting of Black teenager Ralph Yarl.

Kaylin Gillis, 20, was travelling in a car with three friends when they made a wrong turn looking for a friends house in Hebron, upstate New York, on Saturday night.

The group accidentally drove into the driveway of homeowner Kevin Monahan, 65, who came out onto his porch and fired two shots, according to Washington County Sheriff Jeffrey Murphy.

Gillis was struck by one of the bullets.

This is a very sad case of some young adults who were looking for a friends house and ended up at this mans house who decided to come out with a firearm and discharge it, said Sheriff Murphy at a press conference on Monday.

Due to the remote area where the shooting took place, the group drove to the neighboring town of Salem, northeast of Albany near the Vermont state line, and called 911, said Mr Murphy.

Emergency crews arrived and performed CPR on Gillis but couldnt save her and she was pronunced dead.

When officers arrived at Mr Monahans house to investigate the shooting, he refused to come out, said the sheriff.

Authorities spoke with him through a 911 dispatcher and in person for about an hour before he was taken into custody, according to the sheriff.

Mr Monahan, 65, was arrested and charged with second-degree murder.

He was booked into the Warren County jail. It wasnt clear whether he had an attorney who could speak on his behalf.

Mr Murphy said that Gillis, who lived in Schuylerville, "was an innocent young girl who was out with friends looking for another friends house".

He said there was "no reason for Mr Monahan to feel threatened".

Kaylin Gillis was shot and killed in upstate New York (GoFundMe)

The shooting happened just days after 16-year-old Ralph Yarl was shot and wounded in Kansas City, Missouri, after going to the wrong house to pick up his younger brothers.

Kansas City Police said that Ralph had gone to collect his siblings from a friends house on 115th Terrace in Kansas City, Missouri, on the evening of 13 April.

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Police said that the teenager got muddled up with the address and accidentally went to a home on 115th Street by mistake.

There, Ralph allegedly rang the doorbell and the white homeowner Andrew Lester, 84, opened fire on him through a glass screen door using a .32 caliber revolver.

The aspiring Texas A&M University student was shot twice  once in the head and once in the arm.

According to a probable cause statement, Mr Lester told police he was in bed when he heard the doorbell ring and so he grabbed a handgun.

When he saw Ralph, he claimed he was scared to death at the boys size and feared he was unable to defend himself given his elderly age.

He claimed he thought the boy was trying to break in and so shot twice through his exterior glass door, the documents state.

However, Ralph told police from his bed at Childrens Mercy Hospital that he did not pull the door  but only pressed the doorbell  and there is no evidence to suggest he tried to enter the home.

Ralph Yarl was released from hospital on Sunday to continue his recovery at home (AP)

He said he was waiting at the door when the man opened it and immediately shot him.

He fell to the ground and was shot a second time, he said.

After being shot, he said he heard the shooter warn him: Dont come around here.

Ralph was rushed to hospital where the family said he was listed in critical condition.

He was released from hospital on Sunday to continue his recovery at home.

On Monday, Mr Lester was finally charged with assault in the first degree, which carries a punishment of 10 to 30 years or life imprisonment, and armed criminal action, which carries a punishment of 3 to 15 years, but has not been taken into custody.

Protesters have been demanding justice for Ralph and a growing chorus of celebrities are weighing in on the case, voicing outrage over the shooting and the treatment of his accused attacker.
At least one person died and four were rushed to hospital after a multi-story parking garage in New York City collapsed on Tuesday, emergency responders said.

Aerial video footage circulating on social media showed cars piled on top of one another in a jumble of cracked concrete in the financial district of Lower Manhattan.

The building on Ann Street "pancaked, collapsed, all the way to the cellar floor," the acting head of New York's buildings department, Kazimir Vilenchik, told a press conference at the scene.

Its exterior remained standing, but officials said they feared further collapse.

The fire department's chief of operations John Esposito said they had ordered all their initial responders out of the building -- but that a robotics unit had been able to deploy a robot dog and fly drones inside to conduct searches.

He said they believed there had been six workers in the building when it collapsed.

"Four of them have been transported to the hospital in stable condition. We have one patient that has died," he told the news conference.

The sixth person refused medical treatment, he said.

Esposito said the fire department believed everyone had been accounted for.

Officials were calling for New Yorkers to avoid the area.

bur-st/des
A French man faces criminal charges after a New York woman died following a jet ski accident in St. Lucia last week.

Evans Ramos, 28, of Cosmellieur, France, was arrested by the Royal St. Lucia Police Force and charged with reckless manslaughter, ABC News reported.

St. Lucia Police say a woman from New York is dead following a jet ski incident in Gros Islet on Friday. The dead woman has been identified as Jazmine Chandler-Tabb. Cops say a male is in custody.  Anselm Gibbs (@AnselmGibbs) April 14, 2023

Officers responded to a call regarding a jet ski accident on April 7 and confirmed Jazmine Chandler-Tabb was the woman who lost her life while tubing on Reduit Beach.

Local police said Chandler-Tabb was a passenger in the floating device when the recreational activity turned deadly.

The jet ski collided into the tube, resulting in the death of the young lady, a police official told the news outlet.

The victims wife, Natiya Joseph, said she is devastated following the loss of her partner in the heartbreaking tragedy.

Im just devastated, she was my friend, my partner, she was just my everything, she told ABC News.

The Bronx, New York, couple and their daughter Aniya visited the island on April 6 to celebrate Josephs fathers 80th birthday on April 8, per the outlet.

Joseph said the couple would have celebrated their second wedding anniversary in May. The grieving widow shared loving words in remembrance of her wife.

Jazmine was very loving, very supporting, she was encouraging, Joseph said. She was always smiling, huge smile.

A police source also confirmed Ramos was the driver in the jet ski incident. He was visiting the Caribbean as a cruise ship passenger and remains in custody on the island.

I hope that he gets the justice that he deserves, Joseph said.
A 20-year-old woman looking for a friend's house in upstate New York was fatally shot by a homeowner after the car she was riding in went to the wrong address, authorities said Monday.

Kaylin Gillis was in a car with three other people Saturday night in the rural town of Hebron when the group mistakenly turned onto the property of Kevin Monahan, 65.

"While they were leaving the residence once they determined that they were at the wrong house, the subject came out on his porch for whatever reason and fired two shots, one of which struck the vehicle that Kaylin was in," Washington County Sheriff Jeffrey Murphy said during a news conference Monday.

The group then drove to the neighboring town of Salem, about 50 miles northeast of Albany near the Vermont state line, and called 911, according to Murphy. Emergency crews arrived and performed CPR but Gillis was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Monahan was later arrested and has been charged with second-degree murder. It wasnt clear whether he had an attorney who could speak on his behalf.

"This is a very sad case of some young adults that were looking for a friend's house, and ended up at this man's house who decided to come out with a firearm and discharge," Murphy said.

RALPH YARL CASE: Homeowner charged with shooting teenager who went to the wrong house in Kansas City

'No reason for Mr. Monahan to feel threatened'

When officers arrived at Monahans house to investigate the shooting, he refused to come out and was uncooperative, Murphy said.

Authorities spoke with him through a 911 dispatcher and in person for more than an hour before he was taken into custody, according to Murphy. Monahan was then booked into Warren County Jail and is expected to make a court appearance.

Murphy noted that the shooting took place in a "very rural area" with limited cell phone service and that it is an easy area to get lost in. He said the group had been in Monahan's driveway for just a short time before they "realized their mistake."

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Murphy added that Gillis, who lived in Schuylerville, was an innocent young girl who was out with friends looking for another friends house."

"There was clearly no threat from anyone in the vehicle," Murphy said. "There was no reason for Mr. Monahan to feel threatened."

POLICE SHOOTING IN NEW MEXICO: Body camera footage shows police going to wrong address and fatally shooting homeowner

Recent home shooting cases

The Hebron, New York, shooting occurred days after 16-year-old Ralph Yarl was shot and wounded in Kansas City, Missouri, after going to the wrong house to pick up his younger brothers.

A local prosecutor announced Monday that an 84-year-old white man who shot the Black teen twice at his front door was charged with armed assault. Yarl, who is now recovering at home after being released Sunday from the hospital, had initially been hospitalized in critical condition.

The incident also follows the fatal shooting of a New Mexico homeowner after police responded to the wrong house for a domestic violence call.

Recently released body camera footage shows unidentified Farmington Police officers immediately shooting Robert Dotson, 52, after he opened the door with a gun. The incident is under investigation and the three officers were put on paid administrative leave.

Contributing: N'dea Yancey-Bragg, Jeanine Santucci, and Jessica Onsurez, USA TODAY; The Associated Press

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: New York wrong address shooting: 20-year-old fatally shot by homeowner
Looks like the worlds wealthiest people like to flock to New York City.

According to a survey from the investment migration firm Henley & Partners, the Big Apple is the richest city in the world, with 340,000 high-net-worth individuals, Bloomberg reported on Tuesday. Over the past decade, the number of millionaires in the city has grown a whopping 40 percent, helping N.Y.C. maintain its perch among the wealthiest areas across the globe.

More from Robb Report

While, in general, affluent people seem to prefer New York, the upper upper echelons actually favor the West Coast. The Bay Area, which ranked third overall on the list of wealthiest cities, has the highest number of billionaires, touting 63 (New York, in comparison, has 58). Given how many tech companies call Silicon Valley home, that shouldnt be too surprising.

The top five richest metropolises were rounded out by Tokyo (290,300 HNWIs) at the No. 2 slot, London (258,000) at No. 4, and Singapore (240,100) at No. 5. Both Tokyo and London made the list despite an overall drop in wealthy residents, losing 5 percent and losing 15 percent, respectively, in the past decade. The Bay Area and Singapore, however, have seen massive spikes: The California region shot up 68 percent, while the Asian country grew 40 percent.

In total, the United States had 10 cities crack the top 50 richest in the world, beating out China (with five cities) and Australia (with four). A few U.S. cities in particular have seen some incredible growth since 2012. Austin, Tex., was second overall in that regard, with a 102 percent increase in high-net-worth individuals. Both Miami and West Palm Beach, in Florida, also saw impressive numbers, with 75 percent and 90 percent growth, respectively. That could be thanks in part to the exodus of businesses to the state during the pandemic, when remote work allowed CEOs and other leaders to relocate to a warmer clime.

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Elsewhere, Russia has long been home to a good deal of the worlds wealth, but the countrys war with Ukraine, among other factors, has led to steep declines in the countrys high-net-worth population. Moscow has seen a 44 percent plunge over the past decade, while St. Petersburg has experienced a decrease of 38 percent.

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Click here to read the full article.
Philip Mehrtens was taken hostage by Papuan rebels in February

The kidnapping of a New Zealand pilot by separatists in Indonesia's West Papua region has thrust a decades-old insurgency back into the spotlight.

Philip Mehrtens, 37, was taken hostage by West Papua National Liberation Army fighters (TPNPB) in February.

The rebels have been holding him captive as a political prisoner in the remote Nduga region and this week attacked a number of Indonesian troops sent to rescue him, killing at least one.

Mr Mehrtens' kidnapping is the latest flashpoint in a long-running, often brutally violent conflict between the Indonesian government and West Papua's indigenous people.

What is West Papua?

Indonesia is divided into 38 provinces across thousands of islands.

West Papua is the easternmost territory. It is the western half of New Guinea, the world's second largest island after Greenland, with Papua New Guinea (PNG) comprising the eastern half. PNG was granted independence from Australia in 1975.

West Papua has had a special autonomous status since 2001. Since June 2022, it has been divided into five provinces.

Map

The resource-rich area includes the world's largest gold mine, as well as extensive sources of natural gas, minerals, timber and palm oil.

West Papua has a population of more than 5.4 million people. The indigenous Papuans, who are Melanesian, are now thought to be outnumbered by settlers from other parts of the archipelago. Indonesia is ethnically very diverse, with the Javanese at around 100 million the largest group.

Why is there conflict in West Papua?

When Indonesia's independence from the Netherlands was agreed in 1949, West Papua remained under Dutch control. However Indonesia launched an armed campaign to end Dutch rule there in 1961, and, with US support, was allowed to take control two years later.

A UN-mandated vote was held to confirm Indonesian sovereignty in 1969. Known as the Act of Free Choice, it has been widely criticised as only 1,022 Papuan leaders, supervised by Indonesia, were permitted to vote.

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A pro-independence insurgency known as the Free Papua Movement (OPM) began an armed campaign shortly afterwards, which continues to this day.

The Free Papua Movement is poorly armed and divided along clan and regional lines.

The Indonesian authorities have shown little tolerance of this separatist movement, and have frequently used the military to fight it.

Papuan students protesting for the independence of Papua at a rally in Surabaya, Java in 2021

Some analysts estimate up to 450,000 soldiers, insurgents and civilians have died in the conflict since it began in the 1960s.

The Indonesian military has also been accused of serious human rights abuses going back to the 1960s. Last year, UN-appointed experts said recent abuses included child killings, disappearances, torture and enforced mass displacement.

What is the current state of the conflict?

Pro-independence fighters have been mounting more frequent attacks since 2018.

The security situation in the highlands deteriorated after the military intelligence chief for West Papua was shot dead by separatists in 2021.

The West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) - the armed wing of the Free Papua Movement - has said it carried out several of these attacks.

It has long been labelled a terrorist organisation by the Indonesian government.

In 1996, the TPNPB kidnapped 26 members of a World Wildlife Fund research mission in Mapenduma. Two Indonesians in the group were killed by their captors, but the remaining hostages were eventually freed within five months.

More than a decade later, a convoy of 16 buses carrying gold mine employees was attacked. This resulted in two deaths and five people injured.

In 2018, 25 Indonesian construction workers were abducted from their camp in Nduga by a Papuan armed group, with at least 17 of them being killed.

Tens of thousands of people were displaced during the military operation that followed.

This is the same area where Mr Mehrtens, the New Zealand pilot, was kidnapped. It is on the route of the controversial Trans-Papua Highway, a road being built across the mountains which many Papuan nationalists believe is a threat to their identity and traditional way of life.

Why have separatists targeted Westerners?

Following Mr Mehrtens' kidnapping, a TPNPB spokesman said that it would now target "all foreigners: the US, EU, Australians and New Zealanders".

He claimed that those countries had supported Indonesia's rule by sending weapons and training soldiers over past decades. He said they had also turned a blind eye to Indonesia's oppression in the region.

Human rights groups have also said those countries could speak up more about Indonesia's human rights abuses. Australia, for example, has long had close defence ties with Indonesia.

Papuan grievances against Western governments also originate from those countries' roles in allowing the flawed 1969 referendum to go ahead and to be approved by the UN.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that he held a meeting on the situation in the region in Poltava Oblast, and also visited the hospital.

Source: Zelenskyy on Facebook

Quote from Zelenskyy: "We finish this day in Poltava. Quite a long day and emotional. In the morning I was in Donetsk Oblast, in our Avdiivka. It is difficult to see what Russian terrorists have done to this city And respect to each of our soldiers, all Ukrainian who have been holding back and gradually destroying this Russian evil for 419 days and nine years.

I had the honour to congratulate Ukrainian soldiers and officers on Easter and present awards. I often thank them in my evening appeals... For their accuracy and bravery, for destroying the invaders."

Details: The President said that during the meeting he discussed important issues: the security and socio-economic situation in the region, the readiness of military units to perform tasks. We also heard information about "the operational situation in the region."

Zelenskyy also visited one of the medical institutions where Ukrainian servicemen are being treated in Poltava Oblast.

There he talked to the wounded soldiers and presented them with awards.

Journalists fight on their own frontline. Support Ukrainska Pravda or become our patron!
Volodymyr Zelenskyy with a Ukrainian military officer

Zelenskyy posted footage on Telegram showing the aftermath of Russian shelling of Avdiyivka.

As part of his visit, Zelenskyy heard a report by the Donetsk operational and tactical group commander on the situation in his area of responsibility.

He also spoke with members of the marines, airborne assault, and mechanized and artillery units, thanking them for their service.

I have the honor to be here today, to thank you for your service, for defending our land, Ukraine, our families, Zelenskyy said.

Congratulations on the holidays, on (Orthodox) Easter! I wish you only victory  this is what I wish for every Ukrainian, this is what is very important to all of us. I wish good health to all of you and your families, and Im sincerely grateful on behalf of every Ukrainian for the great path that you overcome every day.

Read also: Zelenskyys Easter address to Ukrainians from Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra

The memory of the fallen Ukrainian soldiers was honored with a moment of silence.

Zelenskyy presented state awards to several Ukrainian servicemen. They were awarded with the Orders of Bohdan Khmelnytsky of the 2nd and 3rd degrees, as well as the Orders For Courage of the 2nd and 3rd degrees.

The Ukrainian military presented the Ukrainian leader with a challenge coin, a chevron, and a plaque with 110th separate mechanized brigade insignia.

Office of the President of Ukraine

Office of the President of Ukraine

Office of the President of Ukraine

Office of the President of Ukraine

Office of the President of Ukraine

Office of the President of Ukraine

Office of the President of Ukraine

Read also: Zelenskyy checks rebuilding of destroyed infrastructure while visiting Kherson Oblast

Zelenskyy also visited a military hospital in Donetsk Oblast. He observed the work of a frontline surgical group, visiting the triage department, anti-shock ward, operating room, and intensive care room.

The president was shown a Scania evacuation bus capable of simultaneously transporting five lying and 16 sitting patients. The bus, equipped with modern medical equipment, has already made over 90 trips.

Office of the President of Ukraine

At the hospital, Zelenskyy chatted with soldiers and presented them with state awards, including medals for military service to Ukraine, for personal courage and selfless actions in defense of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, as well as loyalty to the military oath.

Story continues

Thank you for your service, Zelenskyy said.

I wish you a speedy recovery. All the best to you.

Office of the President of Ukraine

Office of the President of Ukraine

Read also: Zelenskyy visits Kharkiv

The Ukrainian leader took the time to speak with the hospitals medical staff and awarded representatives of the medical service of the Armed Forces of Ukraine with Danylo Halytskyi orders for saving the lives of Ukrainian soldiers.

Id like to thank you and wish you  the health that you give to our guys, he said.

Earlier, Zelenskyy visited the frontline positions of the Ukrainian military near Bakhmut on March 22.

During that visit, Zelenskyy heard reports on the operational situation and the course of combat actions at the frontline. The president spoke with the service members in the combat zone and thanked them for defending Ukraine.

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
A judge ordered another competency evaluation Monday for a Madison Heights man charged with first-degree murder in the October 2019 shooting death of his elderly father.

Chris Hamilton Austin, 52, is charged in the killing of John Bell Austin Sr., 83. On Oct. 1, 2019 Amherst County Sheriffs deputies responded to John Austins residence on Riverview Road and found him dead from a gunshot wound, the sheriffs office has said. Austin was arrested at the scene. His attorney, Mark Arthur, has said he acted in self-defense.

Three and a half years later, the case has had multiple delays centered on Austins mental capacity and the defense believes he may have acted on an uncontrollable impulse, according to court documents filed in Amherst Circuit Court.

Austin appears to lack the capacity to comprehend proceedings against him and he hasnt been communicating verbally to assist the defense, his attorneys have stated in court filings.

In June 2021, Amherst Circuit Judge Michael Garrett at one point ruled evaluation reports supported the conclusion Austin is competent to stand trial. Though Austin had difficulty forming verbal responses during a June 2021 hearing, he pleaded not guilty at the time to the charges of first-degree murder and use of a firearm in commission of a felony.

Heather Goodwin, another attorney representing Austin, requested another evaluation, telling Garrett in an Aug. 2022 pre-trial hearing the defendant remained nonverbal in communication. In ordering another forensic evaluation for competency that month, Garrett said he saw a noticeable difference in Austins appearance and said he seemed to have lost weight.

At a review hearing Monday, Arthur said he has been informed an out-patient competency evaluation can be performed on Austin in eight weeks. Another review hearing to evaluate the status of the evaluation and how to proceed toward trial is scheduled for 4 p.m. June 28 in Amherst Circuit Court.

Austin remains in custody while awaiting further court proceedings.
Horizon Behavioral Health will participate in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, with medicine drop box locations available for residents across Central Virginia, according to a news release from the organization.

Fatal prescription opioid overdoses continue to be the leading category of drugs causing or contributing to death in Virginia, with 2,223 fatalities reported in 2021, according to the Virginia Department of Health, setting a record for a second year in a row, Horizon said.

This year, the organization "continues to support this effort to reduce environmental risks that can lead to accidental and intentional overdose by offering free storage and disposal resources as well as Rapid REVIVE! Overdose Response Training on-site and free Narcan," according to the news release.

Horizon's CEO Melissa Lucy said in the release, "When it comes to minimizing risks for substance misuse, the effort starts in the home. Safe storage, proper disposal, education, especially among adolescents, young adults, and older adults, is key in preventing overdose deaths due to prescription medications."

From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 22, seven medication drop box locations will be available throughout Central Virginia for residents to dispose of expired, unwanted or unused medications, as well as share resources to safeguard the home.

According to Horizon, the locations are as follows:

Altavista Police Department, 510 7th St., Altavista

Hometown Pharmacy, 196 Amelon Square Shopping Center, Madison Heights

The Farmers Bank of Appomattox, 169 Old Courthouse Road, Appomattox

Tractor Supply Co, 1128 E Lynchburg Salem Turnpike, Bedford

Horizon Behavioral Health, 2215 Langhorne Road, Lynchburg

Kroger, 2012 Wards Road, Lynchburg

Kroger, 4119 Boonsboro Road, Lynchburg
UPDATE: An arrest has been made after authorities found human remains Tuesday in a burning vehicle on Sandy Level Road in the Goodview area of Bedford County, according to a Virginia State Police news release.

The victim, the news release said, died by "violent circumstances" before the vehicle burned. Special Agents with the Virginia State Police identified a suspect in Roanoke.

"A search warrant obtained for the suspects residence, and more evidence of the violent encounter was found inside the home," the release, issued Thursday, states. "The 29-year-old male was located, taken into custody without incident, and charged with Murder in the Second Degree."

The investigation remains ongoing.

EARLIER: Human remains were discovered in a burning vehicle in Bedford County on Tuesday, according to the Virginia State Police.

An investigation began after Bedford County Fire & Rescue crews were called to a vehicle fire on Sandy Level Road off Virginia 24 in the Goodview area, a news release said. Firefighters arrived at about 12:45 a.m. Tuesday to find the vehicle fully engulfed in flames.

After the blaze was extinguished, crews found human remains inside, according to the news release. Agents with the Bureau of Criminal Investigation responded to the scene, and the roadway closed temporarily while the scene was processed.

The remains were sent to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, Western District, for identification, the release said.

 From staff reports
When Lynchburg native Carter Elliott IV was the campaign manager for former Lynchburg City Councilor Beau Wright on his successful 2018 campaign for council, it was far from the then-20-year-olds first encounter with politics.

Still a college student balancing a double major and managing a campaign for city council at the time, Elliotts history in politics dates back to before he could even cast a legal ballot in an election.

I knocked like a couple hundred doors at 11 years old for [President Barack] Obama, [Sen. Mark] Warner and [U.S. Rep. Tom] Perriello, Elliott said in a recent interview about volunteering in the 2008 election.

Elliott, now 25, seemed destined to work in politics, and said his earliest memories come from tagging along with his grandfather, Carter Elliott Jr., a former Campbell County Board of Supervisors member, to local democratic committee meetings.

My aunt worked for Perriellos office. My uncle worked for [Gov.] Chuck Robb and [U.S. Rep.] Don Beyer, Elliott said, also noting his grandfathers time on the board of supervisors, and that he was the last elected Democrat in a county thats now 70% to 30% Republican.

Pretty much my dad is the only one who wasnt in it, he added.

A fourth-generation dairy farmer in Campbell County and 2015 Rustburg High School graduate, Elliott was raised on Campbell Countys Seven Oaks farm, an Elliott family-owned estate that dates back about 150 years.

Growing up on the farm in rural Virginia, Elliott sees the irony in being a Democrat, but said his grandfather was definitely the reason he became one.

Like I grew up shooting clay pigeons with a shotgun, Elliott said. I grew up with a healthy appreciation for the Second Amendment; obviously I believe in the well regulated part.

I had a lot of really cool people to look up to, he added, naming the likes of his grandfather, Lynchburg luminaries Elliot and Rosel Schewel, and former Gov. Terry McAuliffe, who he calls his political hero.

These days, Elliott works as the press secretary for Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, serving as one of the youngest gubernatorial press secretaries in the country, just 15 years after knocking on doors as a pre-teen for candidates in Lynchburg.

Working as a 25-year-old in a field that some spend decades trying to break in to, Elliott hearkened back to a time on the farm with his grandfather and father where he made a several thousand dollar mistake of running over a tree branch and damaging one of the tractors on the farm. Elliott said that was the time he learned the importance of honesty and hard work.

My grandfather would say, all you got to do is three things to make me happy: You just got to work hard. You got to tell the truth. And you got to tell me when you mess up. And as long as you do those three things, youre gonna succeed.

I really put that to the test that day, he said about running over the tree branch. ... When you grew up on a farm, you learn a lot of things. You learn how to work a lot of hours. You learn how to do tough tasks, you learn how to multitask. And politics is no different.

Prior to becoming the press secretary for Moore, Elliott acquired a long list of experience working on campaigns ranging from city council in Lynchburg to U.S. Senate and gubernatorial candidates.

To name a few, Elliott has worked with Sen. Warner, 2018 5th District Democratic candidate Leslie Cockburn, served as a campaign fellow for former Gov. Ralph Northam, Senate candidate Alex Lasry of Wisconsin, and, most notably for him, as the political coordinator for McAuliffes 2021 gubernatorial campaign.

It was a dream come true, Elliott said about his biggest pinch me moment: the opportunity to work for McAuliffe. I mean, he is like eat, sleep, breathe and helping Virginia. I did everything I could to get on his team. I called everyone I knew, ... like anything I could do to try to get my foot in the door I was trying to do.

That campaign featured his personal favorite memory of all-time, bringing McAuliffe to his alma mater, the University of Lynchburg.

I didnt go to a big school but I went to a very active school. Bringing him to my alma mater and having him speak in front of a couple 100 students, two weeks before the end of the election. I mean, it was just surreal. I mean, the guy went to JoJos [Pizza] with us, played cornhole, had a beer, and then went over and spoke to a bunch of Hornets, Elliott said about McAuliffes visit to the school.

McAuliffe shares the same kind of love for Elliott for the time he spent working on his campaign.

I always tell people sleep when youre dead and Carter follows that same mantra, McAuliffe said. I loved having him on my team and happy hes helping my good friend Wes Moore  even if hes on the wrong side of the Potomac.

Leaving his home in Virginia to work in Annapolis for Moore, deemed by many to be a rising star in the Democratic Party, Elliott said the decision was extremely hard for a little while.

But you know, one of the things I came to terms with is that sometimes in order to grow, you have to leave home, he said.

As a press secretary, Elliott joked, Yeah, well, you know, my first job was shoveling cow manure. Some people say thats still what I do today. But the 17 or 18 hour days are rewarding he said, citing the ability to see people he works for touching the lives of people in their state.

Its really cool getting to see the impression that hes going to leave on the state, and hes really working to create a Maryland that leaves nobody behind. Its cool to play a small role in helping with that, he said.

Moore said Elliott brings enthusiasm, energy, and most importantly, a little bit of humor to everything he does.

Its why hes such an important part of the team, Moore added. I know he loves his home state of Virginia, but we are grateful to have him here helping us create a better Maryland. And part of making this Marylands decade will be converting him into a [University of Maryland] Terps fan.

Elliott, admitting he went winless in elections from his successful campaign with Wright for City Council in 2018 to Moores victory in 2022, said the nature of the field is to get beat up.

Its really like the old cliche, you know. You just got to get back up and keep fighting. But along the way, I got to work for these incredible people, he said.

Although hes a proud Democrat, Elliott believes bipartisanship is important, even important enough for him to help launch a Republicans club at the University of Lynchburg while he was in school.

When you work together and do those things, you find out that you have a lot more in common than you differ, he said. And its the same way like that anywhere you go.

Reflecting on growing up in Central Virginia, Elliott said theres no way I would be anywhere close to where I am if not for this community.

If I went to college in D.C., or if I went to college in Blacksburg at [Virginia] Tech, I just wouldnt have had that same opportunity to do these things. And I really, really feel indebted to like the community and the city, he added.

Wright, Elliotts first full-time boss on the campaign trail, said about his old campaign manager, Farming runs in his blood, and I think thats why hes such a hard working, no nonsense, get stuff done kind of guy.

And I think that partly explains why hes done so well in politics  he gets what it means to be from and of a place, and that it takes all kinds of people from all different political views to make a community successful.

Joking again about his losing record in elections, Elliott said, you learn very quickly in politics is that you cant plan your future effectively, pointing to the fact hes lived in five cities and three states in the last calendar year.

But growing up in a Methodist home, Elliott said he confidently knows that in the next 10 years he wants to do all the good you can, for all the people you can, all the times you can, in any way you can.

I dont know where Im going to be. I dont know what Im gonna be doing. But I want to be doing that.
Malvern, Iowa has seen a beautification project spearheaded by local artist Zack Jones. Vibrant art and sculpture adorn the community of around 1,000 residents in hopes to bring tourism and revitalize the small town from the outside inward.

His largest project, Jones' 150-year-old decommissioned church has worn many hats and it's beginning to show its age. The historic building, which acts as Jones' art studio, an Airbnb, a wedding venue and a concert venue, needs a $30,000 facelift.

Bats in the attic, crumbling stairs, dry-rot, gaps in the siding, deteriorating decorative corners and decaying original trim will be taken care of and renovated beginning in mid-May to give the building back its charm.

The renovations are made difficult by outdated materials including custom mill-cut lumber, which is hard to source and increases the cost of the project.

"The town was established in 1869 and the church was built in 1873," said Jones. "I know many people don't think of future generations, but I think for future generations buildings of this age will be rare and cherished."

Jones moved back to his hometown of Malvern in 2006, after living in Cave Creek, Arizona. Jones learned painting techniques from the late Sergio Ladron De Guevara, a fine artist known for his paintings of architecture and landscapes.

"I wanted a live/work space and I couldn't afford that in Scottsdale, Arizona," Jones said. "So, I moved back to my hometown after 11 years."

Upon his return, he applied De Guevara's techniques to create landscapes of different regions in Southwest Iowa. He eventually stumbled upon an unconventional property that piqued his interest.

"The Historical Society was looking for a possible function for the old church decommissioned in 1969," Jones said. "At the time I was young and naive and didn't understand the work it needed. I fell in love with the space and bought the church in 2012."

The old facade has not stopped the "Art Church" from booking events weekly, but Jones says a fresh coat of paint may create some renewed interest.

The town's revitalization originated from a domino effect of building renovations in downtown Malvern.

"When I moved back in 2006, I was inspired by a gal and her husband opening a coffee shop in what is now Classic Cafe," Jones said. "They went in and exposed all the brick and connected it to an adjacent boutique next door."

"It felt like the Old Market," Jones said. "I thought to myself, this is the way every small town should be."

Jones said this created a synergy in the town that combined to make an elevated downtown area with spaces dedicated to art.

"It's contagious," he said. "We've had volunteers write grants including one to beautify the bank, which was matched by the bank to further invest in fixing the sidewalks and public art."

Part of the grant was used to contract Jones to complete a mural for the town's grocery store, Mulholland's.

The store, which has been in the same family for all but 17 years of its 150 years of operation, burned down in December 2021, bringing the 70-foot mural down with it.

"It was only up for five years," Jones said. "Two steps forward and one step back. It's been a rough couple of years, but things are starting to look up."

They are building onto the local high school, new housing is going up and more businesses are coming to town, he said.

During the summer, Malvern sees an influx of people fueled by the nearby Wabash bicycle trail and Jones' Art Church Summer concert series, beginning the second Saturday of June.

"The arts play a key role in creating a destination," Jones said.

Jones is accepting donations toward the revitalization on GoFundMe. The Art Church is still over $26,000 away from the amount necessary to repair the church.

For Jones, Malvern's potential is infinite.

"I'm trying to create a little slice of Mayberry based on the arts," he said. "That includes public art which feeds back into the community and local businesses."
Mason Keffalos, medical student at Creighton University, started volunteering at CHI Health Mercy Council Bluffs in September 2022.

Mason is one of nine music volunteers with the bedside music program. The program was started in 2022 to create an environment of healing and hope for patients and staff using music. As a music volunteer, Mason plays the guitar and sings songs for patients in various departments of the hospital.

He says that volunteering at Mercy is a great way to use an activity he loves in a meaningful way for others.

Volunteering provides me a meaningful outlet to use a gift Ive been blessed with to connect with others who are in need of healing. I am proud of the time I spend with patients as well as the impact the music has had in the hospital, he said. It is encouraging to me to see patients, family members and staff so grateful.

Masons favorite memory as a music volunteer was a time when he played for a patient that had recently been placed on palliative care. The family was struggling and it was encouraging to enter a room of sad individuals and share music that was capable of putting a smile on their faces.

Outside of school and volunteering, Mason enjoys getting outside and enjoying the weather. One of Masons previous work experiences is as a commercial fisherman for salmon in Bristol Bay, Alaska. This past winter, he had the chance to start a new hobby of tying fly fishing flies and he hopes to use them this summer to catch fish. Mason is originally from Alaska and is looking forward to being home for a few months.

National Volunteer Appreciation Week is April 16-22, 2023. Mercy Hospital wants to celebrate and thank our volunteers for their commitment and dedication. To learn more about volunteer opportunities at CHI Health Mercy Council Bluffs, call Volunteer Services at 712-328-5394.
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Unidentified gunmen have killed at least 40 people and wounded 33 others in two attacks on the army and volunteer defense forces in northern Burkina Faso only days after its military government had declared a general mobilization to help the state deal with mounting jihadi attacks.

The Burkinabe army said in a statement that the death toll is 40 fighters and added that at least 50 terrorists had been neutralized in a response on Saturday (15 April), notably from the air. The following day, another attack targeted the military detachment of Kongoussi, the army said, reporting that two soldiers were killed and some twenty terrorists neutralized.

The region is not far from the border with Mali, an area overrun by fighters linked to al-Qaeda and ISIS who have carried out repeated attacks for years. In what was one of the deadliest attacks in recent months, last week, 44 civilians were reported killed by armed terrorist groups in two villages in the northeast, near the Niger border.

On April 13, Burkina Fasos military government  who came to power in September last year in a coup, the second in eight months  had declared a general mobilization and a warning to give the state all necessary means to deal with the string of jihadist attacks blamed on fighters affiliated with al-Qaeda and the ISIS group. These measures give the transitional government the right to request people, goods and services but also the right to call for defense employment, individually or collectively.

The West African country has been caught since 2015 in a spiral of jihadist violence that began in Mali and Niger a few years ago.
More than 20,000 people took to the streets of Paris in support of Kabylie independence from the yoke of the military regime in Algiers, waving Kabyle flags and chanting slogans denouncing Algerian repression.

The march was held on the day of the Amazigh Spring commemorating the Kabyle struggle to emancipate from the grip of the Algerian army which killed at least 160 Kabylians in 2001 after they demanded recognition of their cultural and linguistic specificities.

The demonstration was organized by Kabyle independence movement MAK in Paris with similar marches in Montreal and San Fransico where a significant Kabyle diaspora lives.

The Algerian regime has classified MAK as a terrorist group and cracked down on sympathizers in the restive Kabylie region sending scores to jail.

MAK leader Ferhat Mhenni received capital punishment along with 49 Kabyle independence leaders.

The march as usual was ignored by pro-establishment French media as President Macron prepares to host the civilian puppet of the Algerian army, President Tebboune.

Meanwhile, Algerian security services banned any march in the Kabylie region and cancelled a match in Tizi Ouzou- the hot bed of Kabylie dissent- to avert a mass protest.
Tunisia under Kais Saied is backpedaling to autocracy as the president continues his crackdown on the opposition, arresting leader of Ennahda opposition party Rached Ghannouchi.

Tunisian authorities also raided the headquarters of the party as part of power-consolidation by a president that disbanded the parliament and tailored a new constitution fostering his power grab, while weakening checks and balances.

Ennahdha denounces this extremely serious development and calls for the immediate release of Rached Ghannouchi, Ennahda said in a statement.

His arrest came after he warned that Tunisia could plunge into a civil war if the president maintains his crackdown on the left and the Islamist opposition groups.

Since early February, Saied has sent at least 20 prominent opposition politicians behind bars using bogus charges. The move triggered condemnation from rights groups.

Ghannouchi was the speaker of Tunisias parliament before Saied dissolved the institution and went on to seize wide-reaching powers through a series of moves opponents have dubbed a coup.

Previously, Ghannouchi was questioned by the Police then released. He had already been in court last November over allegations his party had helped jihadists travel to Iraq and Syria.

The crackdown on the opposition takes place as Tunisias economic outlook darkens on the back of dysfunctional state finances, failed talks with the IMF and prospects for a surge of unemployment.

Western leaders are already warning of Tunisias economic collapse. EU foreign policy chief Joseph Borrel said Tunisia risks collapse economically or socially that could trigger a new flow of migrants to Europe.
A court in Senegals capital Dakar announced Monday the appeal trial for defamation against opposition member Ousmane Sonko has been postponed to May 8.

Sonko was initially expected to appear in court on April 17. The leader of Pasteef party was handed last month a two-month suspended prison sentence for defaming Tourism Minister Mame Mbaye Niang.

He was also fined some $300,000, but was cleared from the offences of insult and forgery.

The politician who has unveiled plans to run for next presidential elections had claimed Mame Mbaye Niang had been criticized by state inspectors for his management of a rural unemployment scheme.

The Minister filed a lawsuit against him for defamation. The defense team of state official requested a tougher sentence for Sonko.

The prosecutor had requested against Sonko two years in prison, including an effective one-year prison term.

The politician, touted as the main rival of incumbent leader Macky Sall for the elections, has made no comment about the court decision.

For reasons related to our communication strategy, we have decided not to pronounce on this referral, his defense said.
A California man has been sentenced to more than 6 years in federal prison for possession of fentanyl.

Alejandro Berrelleza-Bojorquez, 25, of Los Angeles was sentenced Friday to 72 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and 100 grams or more of fentanyl analogue.

After completing his sentence, Berrelleza-Bojorquez will be placed on supervised release for 4 years. Berrelleza-Bojorquez faces deportation from the United States following the service of his sentence. There is no parole in the federal system.

According to a press release from U.S. District Attorney for the State of Nebraska Steven Russell, a Nebraska State Patrol trooper stopped a vehicle driven by Berrelleza-Bojorquez on March 7, 2022, on Interstate 80 in Dawson County for speeding.

His co-defendant, Orlando Castro-Gutierrez, was the passenger. The trooper smelled marijuana odor emanating from the vehicle, and the vehicle was searched.

In the trunk, law enforcement found 10 triple-wrapped bags under clothing. Those bags contained about 10,000 pills. Law enforcement also found in the trunk 15 zip-lock baggies in a paper sack that contained about 15,000 pills.

The vehicle was towed, and both men were arrested. Upon further search after the tow, law enforcement found a 1 kilogram-sized brick in a box in the trunk.

Sample pills from the 10 wrapped bags were tested at the state lab, and the lab confirmed that they contained fentanyl.

The pills in those ten wrapped bags weighed over one kilogram. Sample pills from the 15 zip-lock baggies were tested at the lab, and the lab determined they contained para-fluorofentanyl, a schedule I substance and analogue of fentanyl.

The pills from those 15 baggies weighed about one and a half kilograms. The brick was tested at the lab as well, and the lab confirmed it contained fentanyl.

Castro-Gutierrez is scheduled to plead guilty on May 3 in Lincoln.
Albert's Culbertson Grass is approximately 64 +/- acres of native grass pasture accessed by a well maintained, paved county road. The property has a barbed wire perimeter fence and there is a well with a windmill (the Seller nor their representative know the quality of the well). There is electrical service on the property. There are several potential building sites on the property so a Buyer will have many options with this terrific ranch.LandAlberts Culbertson Grass is 64 +/- acres of rolling native grass. ImprovementsThere is a perimeter barbed wire fence and electrical service to the property. RecreationAlberts Culbertson Grass and the Frenchman River Valley offers endless recreation, from hunting small game and varmints to monster plains mule deer and White-tailed deer. You also have the opportunity to go hiking, biking or having fun on your ATV/UTV all on your own property! Swanson Reservoir, which boasts some excellent fishing and waterfowl hunting is only a short 15 mile drive to the west of Alberts Culbertson Grass. AgricultureCurrently Alberts Culbertson Grass is operated as a cattle pasture. Water/Mineral Rights & Natural ResourcesAll appurtenant water rights associated with this property will transfer to the Buyer at Closing. Seller owned mineral rights will transfer to the Buyer at Closing. General OperationsAlberts Culbertson Grass is currently used as a cattle pasture. Region & ClimateHitchcock County, Nebraska gets 21 inches of rain, on average, per year.The US average is 38 inches of rain per year. Hitchcock County averages 24 inches of snow per year.The US average is 28 inches of snow per year. On average, there are 240 sunny days per year in Hitchcock County.The US average is 205 sunny days. Hitchcock County gets some kind of precipitation, on average, 71 days per year. Precipitation is rain, snow, sleet, or hail that falls to the ground. In order for precipitation to be counted you have to get at least .01 inches on the ground to measure. Weather Highlights Summer High:the July high is around 90 degrees Winter Low:the January low is 14 Rain:averages 21 inches of rain a year Snow:averages 24 inches of snow a year HistoryThis area is rich in history. On 30 Aug. 1873 the first election was held in the county. It was held at the residence of F.U. Martin on Section 14, Township 3, Range 32 West, two miles east of the present town of Culbertson. The first officers elected were: Thomas LeGrand, W.W. Kelly and F.U. Martin, commissioners; W.Z. Taylor, Clerk, J.E. Kleven, Treasurer; G.E. Baldwin, Sheriff; A.J. Vanderslice, Judge; J.H. Conklin, surveyor; Daniel Murphy, Superintendent of Schools; J.H. Miller, Coroner. The county seat was located on the north half of Section 17, Range 31 West, the site of the town of Culbertson. Prior to 1869, the Republican Valley was a major retreat for the hostile Sioux and Cheyenne Indians. The valley was in the heart of buffalo range and was one of the great hunting grounds of the West. Whites made only occasional hunting trips into the region, due to the threat of Indian problems. In the summer of 1869, at the Battle of Summit Springs, near present Sterling, Co., Gen. Eugene A. Carr and his Republican River Expedition defeated the hostile Indians under Chief Tall Bull, which virtually cleared the Republican for settlement. The counties to the east of Hitchcock County were quickly organized by adventuresome frontiersmen and women. Though he did not file upon the land until August, George C. Gessleman was the first person to settle in what is now Hitchcock county, arriving in the early spring of 1873. During the next few months, he was joined by about a dozen other men, staking claims along Blackwood Creek to the east and north of present Culbertson. On 30 May 1873, a flash flood on the Blackwood brought near disaster to those first frontiersmen of the county. In the night, after everyone was in bed, most sleeping outdoors, a flood rushed down the creek, washing away tents, wagons and possessions. The boundaries for Hitchcock County had been defined by the legislature in January 1873 and named for Phineas W. Hitchcock, then serving as United States Senator from Nebraska. Situated near the southwest corner of Nebraska, the county is twenty-four miles north and south and thirty miles from east to west. In June the settlers petitioned Governor Robert W. Furnas for permission to organize the county, and he issued a proclamation on 5 July 1873, calling for an election to organize the county to be held on August 30th. In July, William Zacariah Taylor arrived on the present site of Culbertson and began building a store, probably at the instigation of the Republican Valley Land Company, the town site company of the Burlington Railroad. He named the site for Alexander Culbertson , noted trader of the Upper Missouri County in the 1840s and 1850s, who was living out his old age at Orleans, Harlan County, where his son-in-law was a Burlington official. Before the election, however, the settlers went through another time of trial, when the Sioux defeated the Pawnee at the Battle of Massacre Canyon on Tuesday morning, August 5th. The day before the battle a party of Sioux warriors had terrorized some of the settlers along the Blackwood, destroying some property. An account of the battle is given elsewhere in this history. Eighteen votes were cast at the first election on August 30th, and the men elected served only until the regular election on October 14th. Several of those elected had apparently left the county by the second election, however. A party of buffalo hunters were robbed in early October on the Stinking Water and left afoot on the prairie later making their way to the Kansas settlements. They and others said the robbery was done by some of these first county officials. During that first summer, only a few acres of ground were broken. For survival, these first frontiersmen depended upon the buffalo and other wild game. Supplies had to be transported from the railroad in the Platte Valley, mainly from North Platte or Plum Creek (Lexington). Having little money, many of the settlers traded buffalo meat for essentials. This was to remain the main source of trade until the buffalo herds were finally wiped out. Though 1874 started out well, the grasshopper hordes arrived in late summer and the few small fields were devastated. Many of the settlers left the county, leaving only a handful of men. In 1875 a major change came to the county. Large scale ranching began in Southwest Nebraska. Some ranchers came from the East, but others were Colorado ranchers who entered the region from the west. Thus began Culbertsons boom period. Though a few very small settlements, such as Stratton, Palisade and Benkleman were started about 1880, until about 1883, Culbertson was the only real settlement in Southwest Nebraska, being the only town between Indianola and Ogallala. Though many of the ranchers and their families lived in Culbertson, at least during the winter, and many of the men served as officials of Hitchcock County. Until the railroad built up the valley, few settlers entered the region, for they would have had no way to market their produce except for the long haul to the Platte. When the Burlington began to build west, many homesteaders entered the county, settling on the Driftwood and the Frenchman, as well as building up the river valley. It was not until about 1884, however, that homesteaders began to settle on the divide lands, booming the population of the county. Early history of Hitchcock County tells of frequent Indian scares, but no injury was ever done the settlers. In the fall of 1876, two horse thieves were killed in Massacre Canyon and buried near Culbertson. In the fall of 1878, a band of Cheyenne Indians escaped from their reservation, to visit their old Nebraska home, and passed near here. In the fall of 1881 the Burlington and Missouri Railroad was completed to Culbertson and trains began running regularly to this point. In March 1882, trains began running westward as far as Akron, Colorado. The first school district was organized 21 Feb. 1876. This district was the north one-half of the county. No other district was organized until 1879 when four more districts were added. Another district was formed in 1880 and three more in 1881, making nine school districts in the county by 1882. There were 335 children of school age and 12 teachers holding certificates. The salaries of the teachers ranged all the way from $20 to $40 per month. The first newspaper in the county was the spring of 1879 by W.Z. Taylor, and Nat L. Baker was the editor. This paper was published until the spring of 1800, when Baker took the material and started the Chipper. Taylor started another paper called the Sun at the same time and employed R.D. Graham as editor. During the same summer the Clipper failed and Baker returned the material and the Sun remained the only paper published in the county. LocationAlberts Culbertson Grass is located in Hitchcock County in SW Nebraska. The closest community is Culbertson and the nearest large community is McCook (15 minutes). The property is only a mile north of US Hwy 34 and is located almost an equal distance from Interstates I-70 and I-80.

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Governor Jim Pillen has extended a statewide ban on outdoor burning through midnight on Sunday, April 23. The order suspends the authority of local fire officials to issue burn permits during this time period.

In addition, the National Weather Service has issued a fire watch for our area through Thursday. The watch is for all of west central, north central and southwest Nebraska and the eastern portion of the Panhandle.

The watch is due to elevated to near critical fire weather conditions expected as a result of low humidity and windy conditions.

At the same time, Isolated severe thunderstorms are possible across much of western and north central Nebraska Tuesday evening. The primary hazards include large hail and damaging winds.

Pillens original order was issued last Thursday. It includes the following statement:

The continuing period of dry weather and drought conditions may cause increased dangers and elevated fire risk to include extreme rangeland fire danger, and may create problems greater in scope than local governments alone may resolve.
Photo: Christopher Bryan/AP

Sheriff Kevin Clardy of McCurtain County, Oklahoma, was among several officials caught on tape saying some aggressively racist and terrible things  like complaining that they cant lynch Black people anymore. In response, the sheriff is threatening to prosecute the newspaper that exposed his racism.

The recording, published by the family-owned paper, captured a candid conversation on March 6 between Sheriff Clardy, investigator Alicia Manning, and district commissioner Mark Jennings following a county Board of Commissioners meeting. The recording was made by McCurtain Gazette-News publisher Bruce Willingham, who told the Associated Press that hed left the device in the room, because he believed the group was conducting official business after the meeting ended  a violation of state law.

As it happened, Willinghams son Chris, a reporter at the family-owned newspaper, had filed a defamation suit against Manning on March 6:

So what led up to McCurtain Co. officials allegedly plotting to kill Gazette journalists in an audio recording? Reporter Chris Willingham filed a defamation lawsuit that details events leading up to the recording. The suit was filed the same day as the recorded meeting. (thread)  Erin Christy (@Erin_Christy) April 18, 2023

After a morbid exchange comparing human remains to barbecue, the trio discussed killing and burying Chris Willingham. Ive got an excavator, Clardy said, according to the tape. Jennings said he already had holes for both Bruce and Chris Willingham that were pre-dug and mentioned a hit man he knew who would cut no fucking mercy.

The three moved on to a conversation about how many candidates would run in the upcoming race for county sheriff. They dont have a goddamn clue what theyre getting into, Jennings said. Not this day and age. Im gonna tell you something. If it was back in the day, when Alan Marston would take a damn Black guy and whoop their ass and throw him in the cell? Id run for fucking sheriff. Jennings was referring to the county sheriff who served in the 1980s.

Yeah, Clardy replied in the recording. Its not like that no more.

I know, said Jennings. Take them down to Mud Creek and hang them up with a damn rope. But you cant do that anymore. They got more rights than we got.

FBI is now investigating case of the McCurtain County Oklahoma sheriff, county officials who were CAUGHT on a RECORDING discussing killing a newspaper reporter and talking about returning to Black hangings. pic.twitter.com/078jcGOsfc  Popitics (@Popitics1) April 18, 2023

Many local officials would resign with such a sordid tape making national news, but the sheriffs office published a statement on Monday describing the complex situation it was facing and alleging that the recording may have been doctored. The office promised additional press releases as findings are forwarded to the appropriate authorities for felony charges to be filed on those involved.

Although Clardy refuses to back down, there is a growing coalition calling for his resignation. On Monday, more than 100 people gathered at the county courthouse calling for him to resign. Republican figures, from the state representative encompassing McCurtain County to the governor, have called for the resignation of Clardy, Manning, Jennings, and jail administrator Larry Hendrix, who was present for the conversation.

On Wednesday, Jennings submitted his immediate resignation in a handwritten note, vowing to release a formal statement in the near future regarding the recent events in our county. He did not apologize.

This post has been updated.
The Opelika community gathered together Monday night to show support for those affected by the mass shooting in Dadeville, including the family of 19-year-old Opelika High School graduate Marsiah Collins.

Saturday night at a birthday party in Dadeville, four people, including Collins, were fatally shot and 28 people were injured. The other three people who lost their lives include Philstavious Dowdell, 18, of Dadeville; Shaunkivia Nicole Smith, 17, of Dadeville; and Corbin Dahmontrey Holston, 23, of Dadeville.

Monday night Janataka Holmes, Boys and Girls Club of East Alabama Opelika clubhouse director, decided to schedule the candle lighting ceremony and prayer vigil to show Collins mother and family that the community shares their loss.

The community showed up offering shoulders to cry on, comforting hugs and prayer.

Public officials and pastors provided words of encouragement and said prayers for the victims, their families and the injured. The speakers included Opelika City Council President Eddie Smith, Ward 1 Opelika Councilman George Allen, Opelika Learning Center Assistant Principal Tamarcus Milner, CEO of Boys and Girls Club of East Alabama Richard Curry, Pastor Rick Lane and Pastor Clifford Jones.

Collins mother, Shirley "Shunte" Jones, said she wasnt planning on speaking at the event but felt like she had to. She described her son as humble, sweet, kind-hearted and respectful.

Yall really dont know what yall mean to me and my family. Thank you so much, Jones said. Im speechless. Im numb. I really cant believe that Marsiah is gone. I never thought I would have to bury my child. I never thought that this would happen to me. I thought my childs supposed to bury me.

Jones said she couldnt describe what it was like to get the phone call on Saturday night and having to drive to Dadeville, but shes thankful to all the men that also drove to Dadeville for support.

The last thing I would want any parent out here to do is to be burying their child. That pain that Im feeling, I hope yall dont ever have to feel what me and my family is feeling, Jones said.

She asked children to never leave the house without telling their parents they love them and to always call or text where they are.

Pastor Clifford Jones asked, Where have we gone wrong? Where have we gone wrong as families, as churches, government leaders, state and local? What has happened to us that we have allowed these kinds of tragedies to take place in our community? What will it take to turn this matter around? I think it really is a heart issue. Its a heart issue and its a matter of love. I think it really comes down to an individual not knowing how much God really loves them. If that person knew how much God loved them he would not have brought such carnage upon the Dadeville community.

Jones cited scripture saying people are meant to love your neighbor as yourself. Jones said it appears many have lost the capacity to love.

This tragedy that took place in Dadeville was an act of evil, he continued. The enemy came to steal, kill and destroy. He came to steal, kill and destroy from the families of those affected, but our faith must remain in the promise that God has given to us.

Jones offered condolences to the families who have lost loved ones and to those who are recovering in the hospital.

We stand with you. We stand with you as a community. We stand with you in faith believing that God will deliver, Jones said. We stand with you and hope. Our hope, that things will get better and that we will look unto the hills from which cometh our help for all our help comes from the Lord.

The vigil concluded with the lighting of the candles and releasing of balloons.

To help support the people of Dadeville The Community Foundation of East Alabama has set up a fund to collect donations. To donate, visit cfeastalabama.org/caring-for-dadeville. Checks addressed to Community Foundation of East Alabama Caring for Dadeville Fund can also be mailed to P.O. Box 165 Opelika, AL 36803-0165.

All donations made to the Fund, minus credit card fees, will be distributed as grants to organizations that are addressing the needs of the victims and Dadeville community.
Teachers with Tallapoosa County Schools visited students and grieving families in area hospitals hours after a shooting broke out Saturday night at a teens birthday party in downtown Dadeville.

Dadeville High seniors Philstavious Dowdell, 18, and Shaunkivia Nicole Smith, 17, were among the four people who lost their lives. The others were Marsiah Emmanuel Collins, 19, of Opelika and Corbin Dahmontrey Holston, 23, of Dadeville.

Tallapoosa County Schools superintendent Raymond Porter said numerous teachers went out to the scene and to the hospitals for their students and to stand alongside grieving family members and friends.

I think we sometimes forget about the relationships that teachers and staff develop with students. We are students extended family, Porter said. Education is not a job. Educators is who we are. We do this because we love children, and so there was absolutely no surprise to me that teachers and staff responded like they did because that is who they are.

Tallapoosa County Schools superintendent Raymond Porter said schools were in session on Monday to offer support for students and provide a sense of normalcy.

I feel like when the world turns upside down, school helps right the world. Porter said. Its where students feel safe. Its where students interact with those people with their friends who love them, teachers and staff who love and support them. I wanted to give them some semblance of normalcy, and thats why it was important that we start school today and stay in school.

To further help the students, Porter said theyve brought in counselors from other schools, opened their doors to clergy and have enhanced law enforcement presence. Porter added that the extra police presence is not there because of any threat of danger, but they are there to help parents and children feel safe and comfortable.

Weve lost family members. Our hearts are heavy for those families, for those who are injured. We are taking time to remember those who lost their lives, he said.

Porter gives his thanks to the local agencies, medical partners, other school systems, superintendents and counselors that have shown support and have volunteered their time.

Its been a tremendous outpour of love, concern and that has been very uplifting for myself, the staff, the families and the students, he said.

Porter continues to ask for prayers for the students, families, teachers and staff.

To help support the people of Dadeville The Community Foundation of East Alabama has set up a fund to collect donations to give to nonprofits that can help the victims and their families. To donate, visit cfeastalabama.org/caring-for-dadeville. Checks addressed to Community Foundation of East Alabama Caring for Dadeville Fund can also be mailed to P.O. Box 165 Opelika, AL 36803-0165.

All donations made to the Fund, minus credit card fees, will be distributed as grants to organizations that are addressing the needs of the victims and Dadeville community.

A candle lighting ceremony and prayer vigil will be held Monday at 6:30 p.m. at the Lee County Courthouse Square in Downtown Opelika.
Wish it was more!!!!



I keep thinking about how in that Murdoch Vanity Fair profile it was in the divorce settlement that Jerry Hall cant talk to the Succession writers lmao

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Wish it was more!!!!



Me too. When I saw that number I thought; that's kind of low.

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"I keep thinking about how in that Murdoch Vanity Fair profile it was in the divorce settlement that Jerry Hall cant talk to the Succession writers lmao"





Whaaaaaaat?  Tell me more, tell me more 

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One more juicy tidbit: he dumped her out of nowhere via e-mail



https://www.vanityfair.com/news/2023/04/rupert-murdoch-cover-story/amp So the whole article is well worth the read but if you want a condensed version Pop Bitch talked about it a bit today!One more juicy tidbit: he dumped her out of nowhere via e-mail

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that piece was SO GOOD. they really are irl succession.

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shoulda stuck it out for the $1.6 billion!

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and an on air apology from every host that lied

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does it include a public apology? or does fox get to keep pretending they did nothing wrong

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No :(

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Robert Reich put out a newsletter saying the court should require Fox hosts to apologize every half hour, on air until 2024. If only!

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ugh. i WISH. or a banner on the screen 24/7 during their programming (i'll allow them to not air it during adverts!). although ofc...porque no los dos!?

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Nope. Fox got exactly what they wanted. They don't have to pay the full amount and they can continue to spread false info about the election.

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And democracy stays on the ropes

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Why didn't they just let go to trial and get the whole amount.



And when will the cretin Murdoch finally die.



Also I know this is barely a dent in the empire of Murdoch but hopefully this can open a can of worms from right wing news outlets with their blatant lies.

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I think the risk is that litigation would drag on for years and they'd get a FOX-friendly jury.

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and tied up in appeals

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Cool. Now give it to the voting public.

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where's that channing tatum hahahahahahahahaha image

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Ugh I wish it'd gone to court.

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Too bad their clowns won't have to testify but take their money!

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Fox News' @HowardKurtz reported the settlement on-air and read Fox's statement during the 4pm hour. He added, "Much of the media was looking forward to six weeks of  frankly a lot of people in the mainstream media, anti-Fox, ... are now going to be deprived of that opportunity."  Oliver Darcy (@oliverdarcy) April 18, 2023

Fox is celebrating right now

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so everyone in America who gets their news literally only from fox news (i.e., everyone who heard these lies about the election nonstop for months) are never going to hear about this settlement

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Exactly. So how is that going to stop the threats to Dominion employees. Dominion's ceo and the lawyers are going to get paid but everyone else still has to deal with the lies.

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Exactly. One in a lifetime opportunity to melt this thing to the ground and they chose the money. Whew the ghetto.

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So Fox probably realize how bad the trial was going to be pr wise so decided to settle.

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https://www.washingtonpost.com/media/2023/04/18/fox-news-smartmatic-defamation-lawsuit/ There's still another voting machine defamation lawsuit for Fox to contend with, to the tune of $2.7 billion. I'm not sure how much Fox there will be left even if they keep settling.

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" [Dominion was only worth $100m, now its raining Murdoch ]"







lol I heard to the tune of "It's raining men hallelujah".



lol I heard to the tune of "It's raining men hallelujah".

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If youre going to purport yourself as a news organization and you get caught lying it should at minimum be a legal requirement that you have to admit it to your audience in some official way.



I fucking hate this country!!!!!

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seems like they got off easy

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Very easy since this isnt even a dent in the companies $20billion worth

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Yup. All Fox learned is they just have to pay to keep their shit quiet. It's a drop in the bucket considering their net worth.



Fox can continue to lie all they like. Zero accountbility and real consequences. They literally aren't even admitting any guilt. All their viewers will just assume Dominion wanted money not the truth that Fox should haven been required to say under oath or public statement that they spread lies about the election.



I get this was Dominions best finacial option, most likely, but they really could have used this to truly expose what Fox is and force them to admit how unjournalistic and anti-democracy they are.

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Very bittersweet.



Yes, they won. Fox is clearly a liar.



But the fact that FOX doesnt have to state on air that they lied....and dont get to be as embarrassed as they would have if the trial went through...SUCKS.

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With the trial starting in just two days, Dominion claimed that it is "missing a whole bunch of Rupert Murdoch documents that we otherwise would have been entitled to" had Fox News properly identified him as an officer.



The judge is not pleased with Fox.https://t.co/XO2GeF3HZp  Jeremy Barr (@jeremymbarr) April 11, 2023

I'm sure they'll cease lying about elections immediately.  Ben Collins (@oneunderscore__) April 18, 2023 See this is why they should've gone to trial. They still would've got paid and more info would come out. They were hiding documents.

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Does America have a Calderbank equivalent?

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Like a Calderbank offer? Not really bc the costs consequences of litigation in the US and Aus are totally different.

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Germany took its last three nuclear power plants offline on Saturday, ending more than six decades of commercial nuclear energy use.

The power plants Emsland in Niedersachsen, Isar-2 in Bavaria, and Neckwarestheim-2 in Baden-Wurttemberg were taken off the grid this weekend despite rising public support for nuclear power generation in recent months.

Germany ended the nuclear power era despite continued concerns about energy security and energy supply after the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the end of pipeline natural gas deliveries from Russia, which was the largest gas supplier to Europes biggest economy before the war.

The end of nuclear energy in Germany wasnt without controversy. Last year, politicians reopened the debate about the nuclear phase-outdecided after the 2011 Fukushima disasterwhile recent polls found that the majority of Germans opposed the imminent closure of all remaining nuclear power plants amid concerns about rising energy bills.

After Fukushima, Germany vowed to phase out its nuclear power reactors by the end of 2022. The current government only extended the deadline by just over three months to ensure electricity supply this past winter, the first without Russian pipeline gas. Related: Russia's Seaborne Crude Oil Exports Rebound To Above 3 Million Bpd

Despite calls from conservative parties and growing public support for keeping nuclear reactors operational, at least for a limited period of time, the government followed through with the pledge to end nuclear power generation in Germany.

A poll for public broadcaster ARD showed last week that the majority of Germans disapprove of the governments nuclear phase-out. According to the survey, 59% of Germans think that the decision to phase out nuclear energy is wrong, while just over a third, or 34%, believe the phase-out was the right thing to do. Younger people are more likely to approve of the nuclear phase-out, the survey showed. A total of 66% of the Germans opposing the nuclear phase-out are concerned about soaring energy prices because of that decision.

Last week, Robert Habeck, Germanys Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, said that the nuclear phase-out is irreversible despite the resistance to end nuclear power generation.

A YouGov poll for German news agency DPA showed last week that 65% of Germans are in favor of keeping the three remaining nuclear power plants operating for the time being, business daily Handelsblatt reported. Only 26% of respondents supported shutting down the plants now.

The government assured the public that Germanys energy security is not at risk after the closure of the nuclear reactors.

Germanys energy security is and continues to be ensured; it remains very high compared with the situation in other countries around the world, Habeck said.

Germany has built new LNG import terminals, taken steps to boost grids, and is currently putting in place policies to have 80% of its electricity supply met by renewable energy by 2030, Habeck added.

In 2030, we want to generate 80 percent of our electricity from renewable energy. We are now putting the policies in place for this and adapting the necessary legislation, the minister said.

Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Germany has built several floating LNG import terminals. It plans to have as much as 70.7 million tons per year of LNG import capacity by 2030, which will make it the fourth-largest LNG import capacity holder in the world.

Germany may end up using less LNG import capacity than it has planned to roll out this decade, but better safe than sorry, the chief executive of the top German utility, RWE, said last month.

It may be the case that the LNG terminals are not fully utilized. But you need them as an insurance premium, RWEs CEO Markus Krebber said in an interview with German business magazines Der Stern and Capital.

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As far as renewable energy is concerned, the share of renewables in Germanys electricity generation grew in 2022 to 46.3% from 42.3% in 2021, figures from Germanys Federal Statistical Office showed last month. But the share of coal-fired power generation also rose, and coal was again the single-largest source of electricity production, as was in previous years, followed by wind power generation, whose share also grew. Photovoltaic energy generation also increased and accounted for 10.6% of Germanys power output last year, up from 8.7% in 2021.

Germany now needs an even faster expansion of renewables to meet its energy needs and replace the lost nuclear energy generation.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
Environmentalists are up in arms over apparent slack added to the Group of Seven's energy and environmental goals, after ministers decided that the 'war in Ukraine and its effects on oil and gas' warrant breaking what are supposed to be 'firm commitments' that climate advocates say are necessary to limit global warming.

Nishimura Yasutoshi, Japan's Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, Environment Minister Akihiro Nishimura and other delegates attend the opening session of G7 Ministers? Meeting on Climate, Energy and Environment in Sapporo, Japan April 15, 2023, in this photo released by Kyodo. Mandatory credit Kyodo via REUTERS

Most notably, the ministers left the door open to new investment in natural gas and ongoing use of fossil fuels.

The G7 ministers also concluded their conclave on Sunday without setting a deadline for halting new coal investments, though they did pinky-swear to 'work toward' cleaning emissions from power generation and reducing vehicle emissions by 2035.

Related: G7 To Maintain Russian Oil Price Cap At $60



"It falls short of being the clarion call to action that was needed," said Alden Meyer, a senior associate at climate change think tank E3G during a Twitter Spaces conversation, adding that the G7 undermines its global authority "every time they allow carve-outs on issues like international fossil fuel finance."

The G7, the seven most developed countries, consider themselves stewards of the global effort to reduce greenhouse glasses - and their communique 'sets the tone for negotiations around energy and climate among the Group of 20 countries and at the UN climate summit  COP28  in Dubai in November,' Bloomberg reports.

The new statement seemed to weaken at least one previous commitment, climate activists said. At last years meeting, the groups promise was specific: to halt new direct public support for the international unabated fossil fuel energy sector by the end of 2022, except in limited circumstances clearly defined by each country that are consistent with a 1.5C warming limit.

But now, with the war in Ukraine and its effects on oil and gas supplies stretching into a second year, the group said investment in the gas sector can be appropriate to help address potential market shortfalls, as long as theyre implemented in a manner consistent with our climate objectives and without creating lock-in effects. -Bloomberg

French Energy Minister Agnes Pannier-Runacher pushed back at critics, saying that the new language was actually more strict than what was originally envisioned, and that it "implicitly means that we cannot invest in the exploration of new gas capacity."

She also told reporters on Saturday that while the highlight of this year's negotiations was an agreement to phase out 'unabated' fossil fuels more rapidly, the group "could not reach an agreement on exiting coal by a specific date."

The final language was said to have been crafted to appease Japan, which hosted the meeting, as well as Germany's Deputy Energy Minister Patrick Graichen, which called the group's position "carefully balanced."

That said, the G7 meeting did result in several commitments - including a plan to boost solar capacity by more than 1,000 gigawatts, and offshore wind generation to 150 gigawatts across member nations by the end of the decade, a move which would triple solar power and increase offshore wind capacity seven-fold.

"The G-7 are confirming that solar and wind are in line for takeoff," said Dave Jones, head of data insights at energy think tank Ember said in the same Twitter Spaces, adding that the commitments show "very clearly that wind and solar are the biggest and cheapest tools in the toolbox to reduce emissions this decade."

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The group also acknowledged, but did nothing about, a plan to collectively cut vehicle emissions by at least 50% by 2035.

By Zerohedge.com

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Li Auto Inc, one of China's up-and-coming electric vehicle (EV) producers, is looking to expand its footprint in a big way, announcing on Tuesday that it aims to add seven new cars to its lineup.

The new lineup will include five range-extended electric models, five pure electric models, and its flagship model. The vehicles will be priced at 200,000 yuan ($29,100) and up.

Ma Donghui, Li Auto's president and chief engineer, announced the new lineup at the Shanghai auto show, noting that Li Auto's current best-selling car in China - the Li One sport utility vehicle (SUV) - delivered 257,334 cars in total in 2022.

In addition to the rollout of its new fleet, Li Auto is also working on the construction of 300 high-speed charging stations across China. The stations will be installed across the Yangtze River Delta and Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region and is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

By 2025, Li Auto aims to build over 3,000 supercharging stations across China, covering 90% of major cities and highways.

The ambitious plan is part of a larger trend among Chinese EV makers looking to capitalize on the growing demand for electric vehicles in their home market.

In addition to Li Auto's expansion plans, other Chinese EV makers such as NIO Inc., Xpeng Motors and WM Motor Technology Co Ltd have also announced plans to expand their own product lines.

NIO recently announced that it would launch an all-new sedan model, while Xpeng Motors has revealed plans for a new SUV model with extended range capabilities.

WM Motor Technology Co Ltd is also planning a new lineup of cars with advanced autonomous driving features and improved battery technology for longer-range capabilities.

These moves come at a time when global automakers are increasingly turning their attention towards China's rapidly growing EV market.

Volkswagen AG recently announced that it would be investing $12 billion into its Chinese operations over the next five years. General Motors said it will launch ten all-new EVs in China by 2025 under its Cadillac brand alone.

Chinese EV makers are set to benefit from this increased competition as they continue ramping up their product offerings to capture a larger share of this rapidly expanding market segment.

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With Li Auto's ambitious expansion plans now officially announced, we can expect even more exciting developments from them in the near future as they look to solidify their position among China's leading EV manufacturers.

By Michael Kern for Oilprice.com

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Last year, investments in low-carbon energy hit $1.1 trilliona record high and a major increase on the previous year.

However, this record investment did nothing for the worlds energy security, it seems, because besides the record investments in renewables, 2022 was also a year that saw a major increase in oil, gas, and coal demand.

Not only that, but warnings multiplied about more fossil fuels investments that will be needed. Even the head of the International Energy Agency warned earlier this month that the oil market is facing a shortage later this year because of a growing gap between supply and demand.

In such a context, when the most developed economies in the world are striving to reduce their dependence on fossil fuels, one cannot help but wonder why they are also encouraging more fossil fuel production.

Germany, for instance, just closed its last three nuclear power plantsa low-carbon source of electricitybut expanded a coal mine. The United States federal government is spending billions on alternative energy but is insisting that oil producers boost their output. Britain wants to become the Saudi Arabia of wind energy, as former PM Boris Johnson said, but gas demand hit a record last year.

Something doesnt seem to be adding up. This something is the hidden cost of renewable energy. It is not something widely talked about because it has the potential to derail transition efforts by casting doubts over the viability of the transition.

Yet the issue is very much clear and present. Why else would China be building as many coal power plants as the rest of the world despite boasting the worlds most wind and solar capacity? Related: G7 To Maintain Russian Oil Price Cap At $60

Many critics of the transition to wind and solar argue that the biggest problem is that these are being touted as cheaper than fossil fuels. And the calculations to do that are made on the basis of something called levelized cost of energy.

The levelized cost of energy is a simple measure. Per the U.S. Department of Energy, LCOE measures lifetime costs for an energy installation divided by energy production. It sounds straightforward and simple enough. The problem is, it isnt.

LCOE is not a comprehensive measure of costs because it only factors in upfront costs and the cost of operating a wind or solar farm. What it markedly does not factor in is the cost of energy that is not produced by these farms when the sun is not shining and the wind is not blowing.

These are some substantial costs because when wind and solar are down, fossil fuel plants need to step in and fill the gap, and the electricity they produce has become expensive because of those cheap renewables.

But besides LCOE, which proponents of wind and solar have used for years to argue for their affordability, there are also other costs that are making themselves known now. Raw material prices are going through the roof, and there is little anyone can do about it.

Daniel Yergin earlier this month wrote in an op-ed for the Wall Street Journal that the transition would kickstart a mining boom. The reason is that wind, solar, and EVs require massive amounts of metals and minerals, and these are not being produced at anywhere near the necessary scale. And this means some shortages may well be looming over the horizon.

Copper is a case in point. Trafigura warned last year that there was only five days worth of copper supply in the world in inventory. Not only this, but that inventory was likely to shrink further to just 2.9 days worth. Just how dangerous this is becomes clear from the fact that ordinarily, the worlds copper inventories are measured in weeks.

As a result, copper prices are about to hit a record this yearagainaccording to Trafigura. This is not going to do anything about the affordability of wind and solar, especially given that its not the only commodity in short supply.

Everything is getting much more expensive in an already stretched wind industry supply chain, a senior Siemens Gamesa executive told the FT late last year. In the U.S., the Biden administration last suspended exorbitant tariffs on Asian import solar panels after these caused a slew of new project delays and cancellations because of higher costs.

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No wonder, then, that the wind and solar industries are finding life hard at the moment, despite upbeat reports that continue to insist that wind and solar are the cheapest sources of energy.

This is why oiland coal, toocontinue to be essential for the worlds energy security. Their LCOE may be higher than wind and solars, but so is their reliability because, unlike those two, fossil fuel power is dispatchable: it can deliver whenever its needed.

And lets face it  oil and gas production and processing requires a lot less metals and minerals than manufacturing solar panels, inverters, cables, and wind turbines for that low-cost, low-carbon energy that is, essentially, neither of these.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

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The UK will have enough natural gas supply to meet demand this summer, with supply coming mostly from the UK North Sea and Norway, supplemented by LNG imports, the UKs National Gas Transmission said in its Summer Outlook 2023.

Moreover, National Gas Transmission expects to see sustained flows of gas from the UK into Europe this summer.

We are anticipating that the NTS could again be used as a transit for gas flows going into Europe, however, we dont expect demand for exports from GB will be as high as it was last year, the company said.

Yet, it is unclear what level of exports we will see going to the EU over the summer, according to the report.

Last summer saw record levels of UK gas exports to the EU via the interconnectors due to the low storage stocks across the EU at the end of the 2021/2022 winter and supply concerns after Russia started to slash exports via pipelines to Europe, National Gas Transmission said.

This summer, the outlook looks brighter, at least for now, thanks to the high level of gas stockpiles in Europe at the end of this winter.

There are hints of greater stability in the energy market going forward as price differentials narrow and forward price curves reduce, Ian Radley, System Operations Director at National Gas Transmission, said in the report.

The summer period  from April to September  tends to be a period when the UK sees lower demand on the National Transmission System (NTS) due to warmer weather, as people require less gas to heat their homes.

In a separate report today, the UKs National Grid ESO said it expects there would be sufficient available supply to meet demand at all times this summer.

We expect to be able to support exports to neighbouring European countries if needed, continuing the close-working and coordinated support with our neighbouring Transmission System Operators from last summer and winter, National Grid said in its 2023 Summer Outlook.

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By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

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Final approval from all 27 member states is crucial, and there are concerns about the fulfillment of necessary reforms, especially for Ukraine.

The European Union is facing a crucial year when it comes to its enlargement policy. The last country to join the bloc was Croatia back in 2013, and with the United Kingdom leaving in 2020, the EU has actually shrunk for the first time in its history. No countries are expected to join the current 27 member states anytime soon, but there is a real belief in Brussels that the EU enlargement process can be reenergized after nearly a decade of false dawns.

The raised and then dashed hopes in the past were partly because candidate countries -- and potential candidate countries -- in the Western Balkans struggled to implement reforms across various policy fields necessary for membership. Plus, Turkey -- another country aiming to join the bloc -- grew increasingly disinterested and even antagonistic toward the EU.

But another reason was that many established EU member states felt less enthusiastic about further enlargement. Some pointed to the difficult "absorption" of the 10 new member states from Central and Eastern Europe after the 2004 and 2007 enlargements as a reason to slow down further expansion. Others argued that the many crises the club had to grapple with in recent years -- Brexit, increased migration, eurozone wobbles -- took up most of Brussels' attention.

Deep Background: Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 has created a new urgency in Brussels. Last summer, Albania and North Macedonia were finally given the green light to start EU accession talks. However, the biggest development was that the EU, within months of the invasion, recognized that Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine could become members in the future.

That decision in 2022 to grant the latter pair candidate status and Tbilisi potential candidate status was previously unthinkable. The new statuses came with several recommendations -- seven for Ukraine, nine for Moldova, and 12 for Georgia -- that the countries had to fulfill before moving to the next stage in the enlargement process.

An oral update on the three countries' progress is expected to be given by the EU's neighbourhood commissioner, Oliver Varhelyi, in early May before a much-anticipated European Commission enlargement report due in October. While that is still six months away, several people I have spoken to who are familiar with the drafting of the report but are not authorized to speak on the record have suggested that the commission will recommend moving to the next steps with all three countries in their respective paths.

Drilling Down

For Ukraine and Moldova, that would mean getting the green light to start accession talks. For Georgia, it would mean moving from potential candidate country to candidate country -- the place Kyiv and Chisinau are right now.

While this seems to be the thinking right now in Brussels, the political situation in any or all of the three countries could worsen in the months ahead, potentially causing the recommendations to change.

Regardless, all 27 member states need to be on board and give the final green light, most likely in December, to whatever recommendations the commission put forward. That is far from guaranteed, as unanimity for the decision is needed, and that has proven hard to secure previously. (For several years in a row, the European Commission recommended that North Macedonia should start accession talks, only for Greece, and then Bulgaria, to block.)

While the trio are making confident noises that the policy recommendations handed to them last summer by the European Commission will be met as soon as possible, there are concerns in Brussels that not everything can be accomplished this year. In the case of Ukraine, that is especially true when it comes to reforms to the Constitutional Court and the implementation of anti-oligarch and media laws. Moldova still has plenty of work to do in the fight against corruption. And Georgia still has to make progress on tackling political polarization and ensuring an independent judiciary.

Yet the sense in Brussels is that there is a need to make a "political statement" and give the trio a boost amid persistent political pressure from Russia, not to mention a war, in the case of Ukraine. While some member states are expected to point out various deficiencies in the reform processes, enlargement advocates hope that unanimity can be found quickly.

This hope is based on two assumptions: Firstly, that 2024 will be a "lost year" politically in Brussels as it will be consumed by the European Parliament elections in May and then the change of the entire European Commission and selection of a new European Council president in the summer. There is, in other words, a need to make sure important policy decisions are made in 2023. Secondly, fears about the trio of countries not fulfilling all of their policy recommendations can be allayed by flexibility. More recommendations can be proposed for Georgia to move to the next step, and don't rule out that the European Commission could come with another "midterm" assessment of various conditions before Kyiv and Chisinau can embark on proper accession talks. Some of the worries, notably about judicial issues, can be addressed in further talks, which are expected to last for years.

Many might question why Georgia should get candidate status, especially after ruffling feathers in Brussels recently about the near implementation of a Russian-style "foreign agents" law, which was put on ice after street protests. The thinking in Brussels is still that Tbilisi is one step behind Ukraine and Moldova and should remain there, but that the future offer of candidate status would be reasonable considering that Bosnia-Herzegovina achieved this status last year despite not fulfilling all of Brussels' requirements.

Brief #2: The EU Is Looking For Ways To Sanction Russia's Nuclear Industry

What You Need To Know: The European Union is slowly starting work on another sanctions package on Russia -- the 11th round of restrictive measures since Moscow's attack on Ukraine last year. Many EU officials privately concede that Brussels is running out of areas to sanction and that future measures most likely will focus on closing various loopholes; looking into how to legally use Russian assets frozen in the bloc -- for example, to help with paying for Ukrainian reconstruction; and making sure that more third countries align with the actions taken by the EU.

There is, however, one area that so far remains untouched by EU sanctions: the nuclear industry. Already last spring, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland proposed targeted measures against the Kremlin's civil nuclear capabilities, but they fell on deaf ears. Now, the four countries are trying again and have circulated a discussion paper among the 27 EU members, seen by RFE/RL, on how the bloc can target Russia's state-owned nuclear energy giant Rosatom by limiting imports of nuclear fuel, stopping new investment into power plants, and restricting exports to Russia that will benefit this industry.

Deep Background: One of the reasons why their proposal might fly this time is that the United Kingdom and the United States have already moved in this direction. Earlier this year, both slapped a visa ban and asset freeze on Oleg Romanenko, the director of the Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant in southeastern Ukraine, which was captured by Russian forces in March 2022. Ever since, Rosatom has been in control of the plant, the largest in Europe, and the West has been increasingly concerned that Russian forces are using the entire complex as a military base.

Last week, Washington went a step further, sanctioning five entities and one individual associated with Rosatom (though not Rosatom itself), a move which U.S Secretary of State Antony Blinken described as a response to Moscow's use of energy exports to "exert political and economic pressure on its customers globally."

Another reason why it might work this time is that the EU largely is weaning itself off Russian nuclear energy. Last year, the Czech energy company CEZ announced that it wouldn't allow Russian firms to compete for a tender for building new nuclear power units at Dukovany, a nuclear power station in the southeast of the Czech Republic. Finland also canceled a planned nuclear power plant project that would use technologies provided by Rosatom.

Drilling Down

The problem for the EU is that, so far, there hasn't been much unity on targeting more Russian energy assets after hitting oil and petroleum products in a drawn-out process last summer. Many EU capitals are wary of soaring energy prices; others are still dependent on the Russian nuclear industry, notably Hungary. Last week, Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto went to Moscow to strike new energy deals with Russia, and Budapest has been adamant that it will veto any new EU sanctions in the energy sphere.

Apart from securing an opt-out from EU sanctions when it comes to the import of Russian oil, Budapest has close links to Rosatom. Last summer, the Hungarian atomic energy agency issued a license for the construction of Units 5 and 6 of the Paks II nuclear power plant in central Hungary. According to the deal, Russia will provide Hungary with a 10 billion euros ($11.1 billion) state loan that should make up 80 percent of the financing for the project, which is planned to be completed in 2032.

In order to win Budapest over on potential new sanctions, the Baltic-Polish discussion paper envisages the option of introducing an individual derogation for Hungary, covering the nine years needed for the construction of the Paks II units. This derogation would allow funds and resources to be made available to Rosatom, plus the unfreezing of assets, if they were connected to Paks II.

Hungary is not the only country with reservations. Four other EU member states operate 15 Russian-made nuclear reactors: six in the Czech Republic, five in Slovakia, two in Finland, and two in Bulgaria. A Rosatom subsidiary is so far the only manufacturer in the world that can service fuel assemblies at these plants, which are needed to keep them both functional and safe.

At the time of Russia's invasion of Ukraine last February, Rosatom had 73 projects in 29 countries, notably in Turkey, China, India, and Iran. Despite the war, the company's overseas revenue was on track to rise by about 15 percent in 2022 compared with 2021, with most of that revenue made outside of the EU. So even if the EU could hit the company with sanctions, it wouldn't make much of a dent in the Russian economy and could certainly hurt countries in the EU.

There is also the issue of the EU importing enriched uranium from Russia. Around one-fifth of all EU imports come from Russia, making it the third biggest supplier of enriched uranium to the bloc, with just Niger and Kazakhstan providing more. In 2021, France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Sweden purchased enriched uranium for more than 300 million euros from Russia.

In 2022, the Netherlands and Sweden stopped buying uranium from Russia, but Germany and France together bought 452 million euros worth. While both countries have tried to find alternative sources, they are still bound by contracts -- with the Baltic-Polish discussion paper noting that a two-year derogation period could be offered to both Berlin and Paris.

Looking Ahead

On April 18, the European Parliament is expected to finally vote in favor of visa liberalization for citizens of Kosovo. The decision, which will go into force at the start of 2024, is highly anticipated, as Kosovo is the only country in the Western Balkans that still doesn't enjoy visa-free travel to most EU countries. Others in the region have already enjoyed this benefit for over a decade. EU member states approved the move last month and, after the vote in the parliament, where a huge majority favors approval, there will be a signing ceremony in the Strasbourg chamber, which will symbolically seal the deal.

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On April 21, there is another meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group at the Ramstein military base in western Germany, bringing together defense ministers from over 50 countries, notably all 31 NATO allies, with the aim of boosting arms deliveries to Ukraine. And while Kyiv can count on pledges of more ammunition and air-defense systems, it's probably not likely to get modern fighter jets for now. Speaking in Washington, D.C., last week, Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal urged the United States to send F-15s or F-16s as part of a "fighter jet coalition" that he is trying to form with various Western partners. For now, it looks like Kyiv will have to settle for more training possibilities for Ukrainian pilots in various partner countries instead of getting more modern planes.

By RFE/RL

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The White House has sharply criticized Brazil after its president accused the United States of encouraging the war in Ukraine, saying he was "parroting Russian and Chinese propaganda without looking at the facts."

John Kirby, spokesman for the White House National Security Council, said on April 17 that Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's comments over the weekend during trips to China and Abu Dhabi were "simply misguided."

Kirbys comments came as Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov visited the Brazilian capital and expressed gratitude for Brazil's approach to pushing for an end to hostilities in Ukraine.

Lavrov told reporters in a press conference that the West has engaged in "a rather tough struggle" to maintain its dominance in world affairs, including economics and geopolitics.

"As for the process in Ukraine, we are grateful to our Brazilian friends for their excellent understanding of this situations genesis. We are grateful [to them] for striving to contribute to finding ways to settle it," Lavrov said.

Lavrov spoke after meeting with Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira, who told reporters that Russia accounts for one-quarter of the South American country's fertilizer imports, and that he and Lavrov discussed measures to guarantee the supply.

He also reiterated Brazil's view that sanctions against Russia were causing negative impacts for the global economy, particularly in developing states, and that Brazil supports an immediate cease-fire in Ukraine.

Lula has refused to provide weapons to Ukraine, saying this would mean entering the war. The Brazilian leader says he seeks peace through mediation by a club of nations including Brazil and China, an approach that has irked both Kyiv and the West.

He told reporters on April 16 in Abu Dhabi that two countries -- both Russia and Ukraine -- had decided to go to war. That comment came a day after saying during a trip to China that the U.S. must stop "stimulating" the continued fighting and start discussing peace.

Earlier this month, he suggested Ukraine could cede Crimea to end the war. Ukraine rejected the proposal.

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U.S. oil and gas giant Chevron is looking to explore for natural gas off the coasts of Cyprus, Egypt, and Israel as the region's energy demands grow.

In a lease tender issued on Monday, the company is seeking a drilling vessel for 2024 with an option to extend its use for several years.

Chevron already operates in these three eastern Mediterranean countries and remains committed to working with their respective governments and partners to support the growth of the region's energy sector.

The Eastern Mediterranean boasts abundant energy resources that have the potential to enhance energy security both regionally and internationally.

The move comes as energy companies look to capitalize on Europe's fresh demand as it diversifies its gas supplies away from Russia.

Chevron's immediate goal is to expedite the development of the Aphrodite gas field near Cyprus. The field could contain as much as 4.5 trillion cubic meters (tcf) of gas.

Aside from Aphrodite, Chevron also operates the giant Leviathan field offshore Israel, producing 12 billion cubic meters (bcm) of gas.

Chevron and its Leviathan partners NewMed Energy and Ratio Energies aim to nearly double the Leviathan field's production to 21-24 bcm by 2027. They are also considering constructing a floating liquefied natural gas facility to export the fuel to different international markets, including Europe.

Earlier this year, Chevron and another partner, Eni, announced they had discovered a gas deposit in the Nargis offshore concession in Egypt that they would like to explore further.

Chevron became a significant gas producer in the East Med basin in 2020 following the $5 billion acquisition of Noble Energy. The company's lease tender for a drilling vessel indicates a concerted commitment to this market as it seeks to augment its supply of energy resources.

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Chevron's continued exploration in the region will support the Mediterranean's booming natural gas sector, and help bolster the energy security of the region at large.

By Michael Kern for Oilprice.com

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China and India, the main customers of Russia's crude oil in recent months, have snapped up in April Russian cargoes at prices above the $60 per barrel price cap set by the G7, Reuters reports, citing traders and its own calculations.

Russia's flagship crude grade Urals is now trading above the $60 price cap and has headed mostly to India and China so far this month, per data from Refinitiv Eikon cited by Reuters.

India is estimated to account for over 70% of the Urals shipments in April, and China is receiving 20% of those shipments so far this month, according to Reuters estimates.

China and India haven't joined the so-called Price Cap Coalition of mostly Western nations that imposed a price cap on Russia's crude oil if the cargoes are using Western insurance, shipping, and financing.

Since the OPEC+ announcement of additional cuts through the end of the year, the price of Urals has moved higher, threatening the price cap imposed in a bid to hurt Russia's oil revenues.

Russia was the single largest crude oil supplier to China in January and February, overtaking Saudi Arabia, which was the number-one supplier of oil to China last year, according to Chinese customs data. As China accelerated the buying of cheap Russian crude oil at discounts to international benchmarks, Chinese imports of crude from Russia jumped by 23.8% year over year to 1.94 million barrels per day (bpd) in January and February 2023.

India, for its part, is also boosting imports of Russian oil to record levels. In February, Russia remained India's top oil supplier for a fifth consecutive month.

More recently, Russian weekly crude oil exports by sea returned to above 3 million bpd in the week to April 14, bouncing back from an eight-week low in the previous week, data from vessel-tracking services compiled by Bloomberg showed earlier this week. Most of those exports are going to China and India.

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By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

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An appeals court has ruled against banning natural gas hookups in new buildingsan idea put forward by the city of Berkeley in California as a means of reducing emissions.

In its ruling, the court said that Berkeleys 2019 ban on gas hookups in effect banned all appliances operating with natural gas, which it cannot do because federal legislation pre-empts such local legislation, Reuters reported.

"By its plain text and structure, EPCAs preemption provision encompasses building codes that regulate natural gas use by covered products, Judge Patrick Bumatay, one of a three-member panel at the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, wrote. And by preventing such appliances from using natural gas, the new Berkeley building code does exactly that.

Berkeley is one of about a dozen cities around the United States that are basically waging war on natural gas and choosing to do it by banning the use of the fuel for household needs and, in some cases, business needs such as in restaurants.

Berkeley, however, was the first. Several major cities, including Denver, New York, Seattle, and San Francisco, have followed in Berkeley's example. The governments of the states they are in, in turn, have struck back with legislation banning such prohibitions.

For the proponents of gas bans, the benefits are clear, or rather, the benefit: lower emissions. For the opponents, there are too many disadvantages, from the cost of switching a house from gas to electricity to the effect of more all-electric households on the grid when the ban only applies to newbuilds.

The news about Berkeley would be welcome by the gas industry, which has been naturally opposing the string of bans, and by restaurants, for which natural gas is the most efficient and cheap option.

Commenting on the court ruling, a spokesperson for the association of restaurants in the U.S. told Reuters that the ban had been an overreaching measure beyond the scope of any city."

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By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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ExxonMobil has decided to withdraw as of May 31 from a joint venture operating agreement for an oil and gas field in Colombia, the partner in the venture said on Tuesday, not even a month after pulling out of a sizeable project in Brazil.

Sintana Energy said in a regulatory filing that ExxonMobil had sent its subsidiary Patriot Energy Oil and Gas a notice stating that, based on the terms of the Joint Operating Agreement between ExxonMobil and Patriot, the U.S. supermajor had decided to withdraw from the agreement as of May 31, 2023.

The notice also says that Exxon will withdraw from the Contract with the Colombian regulatory agency Agencia Nacional de Hidrocarbones, effective after obtaining required Government approvals. Both the JOA and Contract pertain to 43,158 acres of property known as the VMM-37 block in Colombia's Middle Magdalena Valley Basin.

Sintana Energy CEO Doug Manner said, "We are disappointed that our VMM-37 partner for more than a decade, ExxonMobil, has voluntarily chosen to withdraw from both the JOA and Contract. Management has engaged legal and technical advisors for assistance in addressing this unexpected change of events".

The withdrawal from a block in Colombia followed reports from earlier this month that ExxonMobil had ended a major drilling campaign offshore Brazil after years of failing to make a major oil discovery there.

ExxonMobil is also facing fresh scrutiny from investors over its climate ambitions at its upcoming annual general meeting (AGM) next month.

Legal and General Investment Management (LGIM) and Christian Brothers Investment Services (CBIS) have co-filed a shareholder resolution, calling on the energy giant to provide more disclosures on potentially stranded assets post-energy transition.

The two investment groups are requesting that Exxon's board reveal whether their asset retirement obligations (ARO) are in line with the International Energy Agency's (IEA) net zero emissions targets.

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By Tom Kool for Oilprice.com

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G7 will maintain its price cap on Russian crude oil at $60 per barrel, Reuters has reported, citing an official from the group, which partnered with the European Union on the cap.

The decision comes despite rising oil prices that have narrowed the discount between Brent and Russian crude, bringing it closer to the cap, and also despite calls from some EU members and Ukraine for a lower cap.

The price caps, agreed upon last year and coordinated with an EU Russian oil and product import embargo, have prompted various reactions. According to its authors, the cap is working. Axios reported recently that Russias oil export revenues have plunged by nearly 50% from highs of over $20 billion.

According to others, however, Russian oil frequently sells for more than $60 per barrel. The FT reported last month that the price, at which Russian companies sell oil abroad often exceed the G7-imposed price cap on the countrys exports.

There have also been concerns about the enforcement of the price cap, largely left at the discretion of Western insurance and ship owners. This significant new responsibility prompted many of them to outright refuse to contract Russian cargoes, regardless of price, which in turn led to an increase in the so-called shadow fleet that carries Russian oil and fuels around the world.

Meanwhile, the International Energy Agency reported that Russias oil and oil product exports last month had hit the highest since April 2020, an increase of 600,000 bpd. Revenues, however, were 43% lower than a year ago.

Oil product exports specifically rose by more than 17% in March, Reuters reported earlier this month, despite the full embargo on such exports to the European Union.

Russia itself said recently it had managed to reroute all of its oil exports to what it calls friendly countries, following the barrage of Western sanctions in the wake of Moscows invasion of Ukraine.

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By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

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WAYNE, Neb.  A former Winside Public Schools art teacher was sentenced Monday to 180 days in jail for having sexual contact with a student.

Judge Ross Stoffer also placed Rachel McPhillips, 29, of Norfolk, on two years' probation.

McPhillips pleaded no contest in February in Wayne County Court to amended charges of disturbing the peace and attempted child abuse. She initially had been charged with third-degree sexual assault and child abuse.

McPhillips was arrested a year ago on suspicion of having sexual contact from September 2021 through April 2022 with a male student who went from age 15 to 16 during that time period.

McPhillips was the first of two Winside teachers accused of having inappropriate contact with a student in the past year.
An Omaha man was sentenced to four years probation Tuesday for his role in a July 4 fireworks attack in Sarpy County.

Maddix K. Foss, 19, was found guilty in Sarpy County District Court of first-degree assault after an incident near 135th and Redwood Streets on Independence Day last year. Jeremy D. Brown, 41, and Brittany King, 37, were also charged in connection with the assault.

Brown was sentenced to three to four years in prison for first-degree felony assault. King was sentenced to two consecutive sentences of two to four years in prison for second-degree felony assault and possession of a deadly weapon.

Prosecutors said Foss was among a group of people that approached a family sitting outside a house about 7 p.m. and shot Roman candles at them. A fight ensued, and two people were injured.

In addition to the wounds caused by the fireworks, one victim suffered internal injuries, and another suffered serious injuries to his head.
Francis Moul packed a lot into his life.

A fifth-generation Nebraskan who was born in York on April 11, 1940, Moul quickly stood out. A Fulbright scholar, Moul proved talented in many fields. An award-winning journalist and publisher in Iowa and Nebraska, Moul was also a passionate environmentalist and peace activist with leadership roles on the Nebraska Wildlife Federation and Nebraskans for Peace. While a political science instructor at Wayne State College, Moul organized a festival for the first Earth Day ever in 1970.

He also was heavily involved within the Nebraska State College System. He taught political science at Wayne State College and took on executive roles at Chadron State College.

While Moul, 82, lived a varied life when it came to occupations, friends and associates said he always had a consistent and positive outlook. Moul died March 4 in Lincoln from kidney failure and heart failure.

The husband of former Nebraska Lt. Gov. Maxine Moul, whom he was married to for 50 years, Francis Moul also was a player in the political arena as a member of the Democratic National Committee and first associate chair of the Nebraska Democratic Party.

I can give you a list of about 500 people that you can call and youd never get one negative word about him, former Gov. and U.S. Sen. Ben Nelson said Monday. Its fair to say that he spent a great deal of his time thinking of others rather than himself. I was always impressed with his caring nature.

Allen Beermann, a former Nebraska secretary of state and a former executive director of the Nebraska Press Association, recalled how Francis Moul would occasionally recommend books to Beermann when Moul owned and operated Wordsmith Books and Art in the Haymarket district in Lincoln.

He was always very kind to me and generous. He would always return phone calls, Beermann said. He just became a friend.

Mouls deep interest in people also stood out to Vince Powers.

He appreciated (that) each person mattered regardless of who they were or their station in life, the former chair of the Nebraska Democratic Party said.

In addition to being caring, Moul had a lighter side. When his wife was lieutenant governor from 1991 to 1993 under Nelson, Moul would cheekily refer to himself as second lieutenant.

He had a sense of humor, Maxine Moul said with a laugh. A lot of people will remember him for that.

But Francis Moul was very serious when it came to promoting Nebraska. Maxine Moul remembered her husband working with Nelson to revamp Nebraskas road map to show the states topography. That work gave motorists the opportunity to see where exactly the Sandhills and the states canyons are located.

He was passionate about issues and he worked hard for them, Maxine Moul said.

In addition to his wife, Francis Moul is survived by two sons, a brother, sister, five grandchildren, along with three sisters-in-law and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Mary, and his daughter, Jennifer.

Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of April 2023
Two Iowa teenagers charged in the beating death of a high school teacher pleaded guilty to first-degree murder Tuesday.

Willard Miller and Jeremy Goodale both changed their pleas to guilty Tuesday and admitted helping kill 66-year-old Nohema Graber, their Spanish teacher at Fairfield High School. Investigators said the attack was possibly regarding a dispute over grades in Grabers class.

Prosecutors say the evidence shows both Miller and Goodale struck Graber with a bat. Miller admitted helping plan and carry out the killing but denied ever hitting Graber. Goodale testified that Miller initiated the plan to kill Graber and they both struck her.

The teachers body was found in a Fairfield park in November 2021 hidden under a tarp, wheelbarrow and railroad ties. The town of Fairfield is home to some 9,400 people and is around 100 miles southeast of Des Moines.

Prosecutors agreed to recommend a sentence between 30 years and life in prison with the possibility of parole as part of an agreement with Miller. Prosecutors said they would recommend a sentence of between 25 years and life with the possibility of parole for Goodale.

Goodale previously agreed to testify against Miller at his trial, which was expected to begin this week.

Goodale and Miller were both charged as adults because of the severity of the crime, but they werent subject to a mandatory sentence of life without parole because they were 16 at the time Graber was killed. Willard is now 17 and Goodale is 18.

Investigators have said that Miller met with Graber at Fairfield High School on the afternoon of Nov. 2, 2021, to discuss his poor grade in her class. Graber later drove her van to a park where she was known to take daily walks after school, authorities say. Witnesses saw her van leaving the park less than an hour later with two males in the front seat.

The van was left at the end of a rural road. After getting a phone call from Goodale, a witness picked up Goodale and Miller as they walked to town on that road, investigators say.

In a police interview, Miller described the frustrations he had with the way Graber taught Spanish and over how the grade in her class was lowering his GPA.

Goodale testified that the two teens planned the killing for about two weeks, after Miller recruited him to help.
LINCOLN  Nebraskas largest city and one of its smaller villages have won federal infrastructure grants to replace aging natural gas pipelines.

The Metropolitan Utilities District, serving Omaha, was awarded $10 million and the village of Stuart, in northern Nebraska, got more than $216,000. They were two of the 37 projects chosen from among 180 applicants for grants under a new federal pipeline safety and modernization program.

Tristan Brown, acting administrator of the U.S. Department of Transportations Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, announced the awards last week, along with U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer and Gov. Jim Pillen.

Brown said replacing old natural gas pipelines helps reduce risks to citizens, provides jobs for pipeline workers, reduces energy costs and decreases environmental hazards. He said the new program, created under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law of 2021, targets community-owned utilities in underserved rural and urban areas.

Fischer, a Republican, backed the bill along with Rep. Don Bacon, the Nebraska Republican representing the Omaha-area 2nd Congressional District.

She said Friday that she has a soft spot in my heart for infrastructure, which she called a core duty of government at the state and federal level. She said the new grants will ensure the safe distribution of natural gas.

Masa Niiya, vice president of engineering for MUD, said the $10 million grant will be enough to replace about 13 miles of pipe, while reducing pressure on ratepayers.

In 2008, MUD launched a long-range plan to replace 561 miles of low pressure cast-iron gas mains with high pressure plastic pipes. The iron pipes, some of which date to the 1880s, are concentrated in the older parts of the city, chiefly east of 72nd Street.

The plan called for changing out one-fifth of MUDs gas system. Niiya said utility has been tackling about 40 miles a year and has about 130 miles of pipe left to do. He said the goal is to finish by 2027.

Larry Paxton, village chairman of Stuart, said the grant will really improve the natural gas situation in his village, which had a population of 482 in the 2020 census.

Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of March 2023
LINCOLN  Wine lovers will be able to bring their beer-drinking buddies along when visiting Nebraska wineries under the first bill passed this year by the Nebraska Legislature.

Legislative Bill 376 passed on a vote of 41-0 Monday night. The measure was introduced by State Sen. John Lowe of Kearney, chairman of the Legislatures General Affairs Committee.

Lowes original proposal would make some changes in law allowing the Liquor Control Commission to better track alcohol brought into the state. Several other bills were incorporated as amendments.

One would allow Nebraska farm wineries to get a license to sell beer and other drinks that they do not manufacture.

The change would provide options for people who dont want to drink wine, but want to go out with wine-loving friends and family. It also could make wineries more attractive as venues for weddings and other events.

Another would allow Nebraska microdistilleries to distribute up to 500 gallons of their product directly to retailers, as long as the distribution is done by microdistillery employees. The change could increase the availability of Nebraska-made bourbon, gin, brandy and other liquors.

Nebraska farm wineries and craft breweries already have similar authority to distribute limited amounts of their own products without going through the states usual process for alcohol distribution.

Another provision of LB 376 would allow churches and other nonprofit organizations to get up to 12 special designated liquor licenses per year, rather than the current limit of six. Such licenses are commonly used for fundraisers and other events.

Legislative action has been slowed this year by Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh of Omaha, who has mounted an ongoing filibuster in hopes of killing a bill that would ban gender-altering care for transgender minors.

In the last 90-day legislative session, lawmakers had passed 57 bills by this point in the session, according to the Clerk of the Legislatures office.

Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of April 2023
LINCOLN  Nebraska lawmakers advanced a bill Monday that would base future superintendent salaries on the wages for school districts entry-level teachers.

Legislative Bill 800 would cap a superintendents total compensation at no more than five times the salaries of the districts first-year teachers. It advanced out of the Legislatures Education Committee on a 5-2 vote Monday. Several other bills advanced out of committee during the same meeting, including two aimed at reducing the states teacher shortage.

If passed, LB 800 is likely to affect only the total compensation of three superintendents  in Omaha, Lincoln and Millard  once those positions enter their next contract. The three districts are by far the states largest.

State Sen. Dave Murman of Glenvil, the education chair, introduced the bill. He and other supporters have said some superintendent salaries are too high, and they have suggested that limiting their pay might lead to raises for teachers.

But opposing lawmakers focused on reports that Gov. Jim Pillen might veto LB 800 if it passes. Sen. Rita Sanders of Bellevue, one of the two dissenting votes, also said she is concerned that if first-year teacher wages rise because of the bill, it could lead some districts to raise taxes.

Sen. Lynne Walz of Fremont, another opponent, wasnt present for Mondays executive session but submitted her votes ahead of time. She previously said she didnt have enough information on the bill to support it, and pushed for a study to examine its impacts in light of the governors reservations.

The red flag has gone up, Walz said last week.

The committees split vote may affect whether LB 800 makes it into a larger package the committee will be discussing later this week. According to committee members, Pillen has also said he would veto the bill even if its attached to other legislation.

The committee advanced several other bills Monday aimed at forging alternative pathways for teachers to enter the field. LB 603, introduced by committee member Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of the Omaha area, would create options for individuals to obtain a teaching certificate. The bill was pushed out of committee in a 6-1 vote, with only Walz voting against it.

Under the bill, the individual must have a bachelors degree, and the organization supplying the teaching certificate must operate in at least five other states, be in operation for at least 10 years and require candidates pass two exams relating to their subject area and general professional teaching knowledge. Additionally, the committee attached an amendment that would require the candidate to complete one semester of student teaching, which is the same requirement in place for university teaching programs.

LB 762, introduced by Sen. Wendy DeBoer of Bennington, also advanced in a 7-0 vote Monday. Originally intending to establish an apprenticeship program for teachers, a committee amendment would change the bill to provide tuition assistance for paraprofessionals looking to become teachers.

The original LB 762 would appropriate $5 million from the general fund for the program. The amendment would lower the funding to $1 million, and take it from the $1 billion Education Future Fund Pillen has proposed this year.

Both bills aim to reduce the states growing teacher shortage. According to the Nebraska Department of Education, unfilled teaching jobs across the state increased by nearly 60% over last school year, going from 482 vacancies at the start of the 2021-22 school year to about 768 at the beginning of 2022-23.

Linehan argued this amount of vacancies is urgent enough to warrant legislative action.

We have a crisis, Linehan said. So dont we need to do something like right now?

Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of April 2023
Southwest Airlines resumed flights late Tuesday morning after a temporary nationwide ground stop of all departing flights that delayed more than 1,500 flights across the country.

Southwest blamed the problem on a computer glitch.

Southwest has resumed operations after temporarily pausing flight activity this morning to work through data connection issues resulting from a firewall failure, the Dallas-based airline said in a prepared statement. Early this morning, a vendor-supplied firewall went down and connection to some operational data was unexpectedly lost.

At Eppley Airfield, where Southwest is the largest air carrier, eight of 11 departures scheduled for the rest of the day were listed as delayed, according to departure information on the airports website, Flyoma.com, though most of the delays were short. The longest delay was a 12:25 p.m. flight to Chicagos Midway Airport that had been pushed back to 2:10 p.m.  an hour and 45 minutes.

Eleven arriving flights were also delayed, including a 9:45 a.m. arrival from Chicago-Midway that was nearly 90 minutes late.

Tim Schmitt, Eppleys chief operating officer, said only minor impacts were expected in Omaha. He urged people scheduled to travel on Southwest today to check with the airline or consult the app on their phones to make sure the flight is departing on time.

By late morning on the East Coast, Southwest accounted for well over half of all delays nationwide, but the airline had canceled fewer than a dozen flights, according to FlightAware, a national flight-tracking system.

In December, Southwest canceled nearly 17,000 flights over the Christmas holiday due to bad weather and its crew-scheduling system becoming overwhelmed. Those cancellations cost the airline more than $1 billion and are being investigated by the U.S. Department of Transportation.

This article includes material from the Associated Press.

Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of April 2023
The Ogun State Police Command has arrested a 33-year-old woman, identified as Olaide Adekunle, for allegedly selling her 18-month-old baby for N600,000 to offset her bank loan.

Naija News reports that the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, SP, Abimbola Oyeyemi, disclosed the latest development in a statement on Monday.

According to him, the suspect, who lives in Sango, the Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area of Ogun State, left her house for Lagos where she sold the baby to an unknown buyer.

He said Olaide was arrested following a complaint lodged at Sango divisional headquarters by her husband, Nureni Rasaq, stressing that his wife left home for Lagos on March 15, 2023, with their baby girl, Moridiat Rasaq, but returned home without the baby.

According to Oyeyemi, the husband stated further that all efforts to know what happened to the baby proved abortive as the woman was unable to give any reasonable account of the whereabouts of the baby.

The police boss added that the suspect has confessed to the crime and the acting Commissioner of Police, DCP Babakura Muhammed, had directed that the suspect be transferred to State Criminal Investigation Department for further investigation and possible recovery of the baby.

He said, Upon the report, the DPO Sango division, CSP Dahiru Saleh, detailed his detectives to go after the said woman, and she was promptly arrested.

On interrogation, the suspect confessed that she had sold the baby to someone in Lagos at the rate of N600,000.

When asked the reason for her action, she stated that she borrowed money from a microfinance bank, and when she was unable to pay back the money, the bank agents started dragging her and threatened to deal decisively with her.

It was consequent upon this that she ran to Lagos and started hawking sachet water.

It was while hawking that she met a man who introduced her to the woman that eventually bought the child in Lagos.
A clergyman, Daniel Oluwafeyiropo, was on Monday remanded in prison by an Ikeja sexual offences and domestic violence court for allegedly raping two of his church members.

Oluwafeyiropo was remanded in Kirikiri Correctional Centre pending the fulfilment of his bail conditions.

The founder of I Reign Christian Ministry was earlier arraigned on a two-count charge bordering on rape which contravenes section 260 (2) of the criminal laws of Lagos State, 2015.

Oluwafeyiropo was said to have committed the offence in June 2020 at Ikota Villa Estate, in Lekki, Lagos.

The presiding judge, Ramon Oshodi, admitted the suspect to N20 million bail with two sureties in like sum and to submit his international passport and adjourned the case till May 9.

Defence counsel, Olukunle Oyewole, had earlier moved for the bail of his client on liberal terms.

My lord, the defendant was not informed on the day the matter came up for the first time before this court.

The defendant is a well-known religious leader, and he has shown by his action that he will not jump bail.

The offence for which he is charged with is a bailable offence, and he has credible sureties that can stand for him.

And lead prosecution counsel, Babjide Boye, urged the court to reject the bail application, adding that the offence committed is serious.

Boye posited that there is a possibility of the defendant interfering with the prosecutions witnesses.

He stated that the defendant is a bishop of many branches, and if granted bail, he may use his position to influence the prosecution of witnesses, being a man of authority who has the possibility of committing the same crime.

He urged the court to deny the defendant bail because he had failed to provide the court with exceptional circumstances to grant him bail.

The suspect pleaded not guilty to the charge.
The leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) yesterday stormed the national headquarters of the Labour Party (LP) in Abuja to flush out elements which the labour centre described as rodents trying to take over the party.

The solidarity visit, in support of the embattled national chairman of the party, Barrister Julius Abure, was led by the national president, Comrade Joseph Ajaero and other members of the national executive.

This came amid leadership crisis that is rocking the party over two court orders on the position of the national chairman of the party.

A High Court in Benin, Edo State, had given an order restraining anybody from removing Abure as party chairman, while an FCT High Court also granted an interim order restraining him from parading himself as the party chairman.

But the labour centre had on different occasions maintained that Barrister Julius Abure remained the chairman of the party which the congress said it formed to represent ideological persuasions of Nigerian workers.

At the party headquarters, Comrade Ajaero said the labour centres fathered the LP and would not abandon it to any illegal leadership.

Ajaero also stated that anyone who illegally declares himself either as chairman, secretary or anything will be tackled by workers anywhere in the country.

He said Nigerian workers should arrest such people and bring them to the labour centre.

He said, For some time, we have not been visiting our house we decided to visit our house this afternoon after getting some information that there are some rodents trying to move into our house and we have come with some insecticide to fumigate the house from any rodents that is illegally trying to enter our property, incidentally, we didnt see any rodents but we will comb around and see whether there is any. The LP is a child of circumstances. It began, when we lost almost all confidence in the existing political parties and we felt that the LP will be the ideal political party that will represent our ideological persuasions.

He noted that for anybody or group to think that they can sabotage or derail their ideological move, they will resist them with the last drop of their blood.

This was formed by the NLC and TUC, this is our party, nobody can come from the blues and declare himself as the chairman or secretary of our party without our consent, such people, if they attempt to come here next time, all their property, all their houses, their residential houses we will occupy it where ever it is located, then they will know that all that they have was given to them by Labour.

Today, we say enough is enough, never again will any human being enter here under any guise, under any order even if we lose our leadership, we have to meet as trustees of this party to decide the next line of action. For anybody to illegally declare himself either as chairman, secretary or anything, we urge all workers anywhere in the country, where you see such people, arrest them and bring them to us, he added.

He said the Labour Party refused to be distracted and would continue to pursue the court case until the mandate of the party is recovered.

In his remarks, Abure said, Time has come for Nigerians to take back their countryand no amount of harassment, intimidation, nor falsehood will deter us from that pursuit, we refuse to be distracted and continue to pursue our court case till that mandate is recovered.
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A coalition of groups comprising states in the Southsouth has supported former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio, to emerge as president of 10th Senate.

Addressing a news conference in Uyo yesterday under the aegis of Coalition of South-South Community for United Nigeria, Justice and Equity, the Chairman, Eseme Eyibo, said Akpabio was more qualified to be the Senate president.

The coalition appealed to the All Progressives Congress (APC), President-elect Bola Ahmed Tinubu and senators-elect to zone the Senate presidency to the South South for equity, justice and fairness.

Eyibo, a former member of the House of Representatives and ex-chairman of Cross River Basin Authority, said Akpabio had the capacity and pedigree to occupy the office.

READ ALSO: Akpabio sets blaze in race for Senate President

He said: If we follow the model of what has been going on in this country, each time the Senate presidency comes to southern Nigeria, it is usually micro-zoned to the Southeast.

Southeast has enjoyed uninterrupted Senate presidency for five times-Adolphos Wagbara from Abia State, Evans Enwerem from Imo State, Chuba Okadigbo from Anambra State, Pius Anyim from Ebonyi State and Ken Nnamani from Enugu State.

The position has been distributed to five Southeastern states. So, now that the Senate presidency is coming to the South, it cannot go to the Southwest because the president is from the Southwest. The natural place, if we mean zoning, it should go to, is the Southsouth.

We are presenting Sen. Akpabio for this position. We seek the support of all.
The Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC on Monday, April 17, 2023, arraigned one Joseph Victor Ndubuka before Justice Darius Khobo of the Kaduna State High Court on a two count charge bordering on romance scam and non- disclosure of assets.

The defendant allegedly used the false identity of Caucasian gay to defraud unsuspecting victims of their hard-earned money.

READ ALSO: EFCC arrests 11 suspected internet fraudsters in Maiduguri

One of the counts reads, that you, Victor Joseph Ndubuka m sometime in March 2023 within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court knowingly failed to make full disclosure of your assets by deliberately refusing to declare your cryptocurrency and Non Fungible Token (NTF) all worth about Twenty Eight Thousand Dollars in the Disclosure of Assets and Liabilities Form and you thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 27(3) (a) of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (Establishment) Act, 2004 and punishable under Section (27) (3) of the same Act.

He pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Prosecuting counsel, Precious C. Onyeneho urged the court to fix a date for hearing of the matter, while the defence counsel, A.I Hamza urged the court to admit his client to bail.

Justice Darius, however, adjourned the case till May 3, 2023 for hearing of his bail application and ordered the defendant remanded at the Correctional Centre. .
One of the governorship aspirants on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kogi State, Yomi Awoniyi has slammed the primary election that produced Senator Dino Melaye as lacking in credibility.

Awoniyi, who is a former deputy governor of the state, also said that Melaye emerged through a tainted delegates list.

Melaye, who represented Kogi West at the National Assembly, was declared winner of the Kogi State PDP governorship primary on Sunday after scoring 313 votes against Awoniyis 77 votes.

The former deputy governor, in a statement on Monday in Lokoja, said: Without an iota of doubt, I make bold to say Senator Melayes victory is a pyrrhic one. This victory portends great danger to the unity of our party and the prospect of winning the November 11 governorship election.

READ ALSO:Melaye wins PDP governorship ticket in Kogi

The primary that threw up Senator Melaye was flawed; 158 delegates, who emerged from the state ad hoc congress of March 29, 2023, were replaced by the woeful Senator Abdul Ningi Congress Committee, working in concert with Senator Dino Melayes enablers within the party hierarchy at the highest level.

Awoniyi further stated that it was not fair to gift any aspirant, a total of 158 votes in a contest for 739 votes, involving eight aspirants.

It is fraudulent, duplicitous, sinful, and unwholesome because it confers an undue advantage on the favoured aspirant. Senator Dino Melaye won a fraudulent primary.

This pyrrhic victory may look like a fait accompli, but the dust is unlikely to settle even beyond the November 11, 2023 governorship election. From the forgoing, it may surprise many that I do not necessarily blame Senator Dino Melaye for where we find ourselves today. He needs to search his heart to see if he has behaved well, as a counsellor of the celestial, which he claims to be. But I blame his enablers, he added.

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The governorship candidate of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Adamawa State, Aishatu Dahiru Binani has dragged the the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

KanyiDaily recalls that Binani was illegally declared the governor-elect of Adamawa by the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Hudu Yunusa. following last Sundays supplementary election.

Yunusa had walked into the collation centre after the supplementary election was suspended on Saturday and announced Binani as the winner on Sunday when outstanding results were yet to be declared.

The APC governorship candidate was hoping to upstage the incumbent governor, Ahmadu Fintiri of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who scored more votes during the main election on 18 March.

But INEC described Yunusas action as null and void, and reversed Binanis declaration as winner of the election, which could have made her the first elected female governor in Nigerias history.

INEC said the Adamawa REC has no power to announce the winner of the election, noting that the responsibility solely lies with the state collation officer appointed by the commission.

Binani Drags INEC To Court

Binani approached the Federal High Court in Abuja, seeking a judicial review of the administrative decision of the INEC in respect of her declaration as the winner of Adamawa governorship election held on March 18 and April 15, 2023.

In the suit filed by her lawyers, led by Hussaini Zakariyau (SAN), Binani is seeking an order to prevent INEC and its agents from taking any further steps towards the declaration of the winner of the election pending the determination of her case.

She is seeking the leave of the court for a judicial review of the administrative decision of INEC in respect of her declaration as winner of the governorship elections held on March 18 and the supplementary elections of April 15.

Binani is also seeking an order of prohibition and certiorari preventing INEC and its agents from taking any further step towards the declaration of the winner of the elections pending the determination of her application for judicial review.

The application was filed pursuant to Order 34 rules 1a, order 3(1) & 3(2) a, b, c, Order 6 of the Federal High Court (Civil Procedure Rules) 2019 and Section 251 (1)q & r of the 1999 Constitution, as well as section 149 & 152 of the Electoral Act 2022.

On the grounds under which the application is brought, the governorship candidate stated that after the collation of results, INEC declared her as the winner of the elections but the PDP and its candidate, Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, who was sued as the 2nd & 3rd respondents resorted to fighting and causing a public disturbance which led to the beating and manhandling of an INEC official.

This crisis, she noted, led INEC to cancel the initial declaration which she said the commission had no power to do as only the election petition tribunal is vested with such powers.

By cancelling her declaration, Binani contends that INEC usurped the powers of the election petition tribunal, which is the only court vested with powers on declaration on the conduct of an election.

The APC candidate argued that a judicial review exists to enable the superior court to checkmate the actions and decisions of inferior courts as well as the legislative and administrative arm of government including agencies and public officers.

The applicant further submitted that INEC, being an agency of the government can have its actions, records and decisions checked by the court and only a court can nullify the actions of an INEC official and not the commission itself.

KanyiDaily recalls that Aishatu Dahiru Binani accepted the controversial result of the Adamawa State governorship election despite the cancellation of her victory by the INEC.
A mass burial has been conducted in Kaduna State after the killing of innocent people by terrorists.

The PUNCH reports that normalcy has been restored to Runji Sakwab Community, in Atyap Chiefdom of Zango Kataf Local Government Area Kaduna State, following the mass burial of 33 persons killed by bandits on Saturday night.

It had been reported that the 33 persons were gruesomely murdered in their sleep and their houses razed, such that 19 of the corpses were burnt beyond recognition.

Speaking at the mass burial ceremony, the Local Government Chairman, Mr. Francis Sani Zimbo expressed shock over the incident, saying it was an unprovoked attack on the people.

He said Runji Sankwab was the third community to experience the series of attacks within a space of about 30 days in the Atyap communities.

Zimbo who decried the killings disclosed that while the local government has held several security meetings to unravel reasons behind the repeated attacks and proffer possible solutions aimed at putting a stop to the carnage; however lamented their efforts were all to no avail.

The council boss remarked, our hands are tight and there are no options left for us again but to seek for solutions and help from outside our immediate scope through the help of the media.

The National President, Atyap Community Development Association, Comrade Timbwak Samuel Achie, called on the entire Atyap community to unite and defend themselves whenever faced with such genocidal threats.

He also appealed for assistance from well-spirited Nigerians and international bodies to assist the affected persons because their houses, totalling about 40 were burnt to ashes and valuables, including food items destroyed.

Performing the mass burial rites, the Local Government Chairman of Christian Association of Nigeria, Bishop Jacob Kwashi urged the government to live up to its responsibility of protecting lives and properties.

Bishop Kwashi therefore prayed for the repose of the lives of those that died and prayed for quick recovery of those who sustained various degrees of injuries and those in critical conditions.

Reacting on the sad incident, the State Police Public Relations Officer DSP Mohammed Jalige said his officers and personnel of other security operatives have since been deployed to the area to ensure such carnage does not recur.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has asked the Inspector-General of Police to investigate and prosecute the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Adamawa State, Barr. Hudu Yunusa Ari.

INEC made the call at the meeting held today, 18th April 2023, at its headquarters in Abuja.

INEC also requested the Secretary to the Government of the Federation to draw the attention of the appointing authority to the unwholesome behavior of the REC for further action.

The commission also confirmed that the collation process shall resume at a time to be determined by the Returning Officer.

More details shortly.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has announced the expulsion of former Gombe State Governor, Senator Danjuma Goje from the party.

Goje was expelled on Tuesday for alleged anti-party activities according to a statement by the APC chairman in Kashere ward, Akko local government area, Tanimu Abdullahi.

The ward chairman accused Goje of several offences, including failure to grace the flag off of APCs governorship campaign and general anti-party activities. He also lamented that the former Governor could not win his ward for the APC but was defeated by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the just concluded 2023 polls.

The expulsion was signed by 31 executive members including four state officials according to Abdullahi.

The committee also deliberated on the allegations against Goje of hobnobbing with opposition parties and their candidates with the intent to undermine the success of the APC in Gombe State and Nigeria in general.

Open support to opposition party candidates by hosting the NNPP gubernatorial candidate and the PDP Akko Federal House of Representatives candidate in his residence and offered support against the interest of his party, the APC, among many other instances, the statement read in part.

It added that Goje worked against all other APC candidates in the state and openly informed his followers to vote for candidates of other parties.

Making pronouncements that undermined the APC administration in the state and sponsoring campaign of calumny with the intention of inciting the public against the APC administration in the state.

Giving clear directives to his associates and proteges to work against the interest of the APC in Gombe State by ensuring only Senator Goje is elected on the APC platform (Using the Goje Kawai slogan) while working towards the defeat of other APC candidates at all levels.

That the executive council of the All Progressives Congress in Kashere ward has decided to expel Senator Muhammadu Danjuma Goje from the All Progressives Congress for his numerous anti-party activities that are in breach of Article 21, Section A, subsections ii, iii, vi and vii of the APC constitution.
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By Israel Bulus, Kaduna

The supplementary election held in the Khuta Polling Unit of Kwasam Ward in Kauri/Chawai Local Government Area for Kaduna State House of Assembly on Saturday was marred by vote buying and intimidation of voters and journalists by thugs.

The election was declared inconclusive by INEC on March 18, 2023.

However, the PDP Local Government Collation Officer, Simon Arabo, who refused to sign the result, described it as daylight robbery.

The PUNCH reports that in the Kahuta Polling Unit which had 995 registered voters in the two wards where the supplementary elections were conducted, the election was marred by voting buying and voter intimidation by thugs who intermittently, chased away voters while queuing to vote as well as attacking some journalists who were monitoring the elections.

Some voters who attempted to run to their homes were not so lucky enough as the thugs who were wielding dangerous weapons such as sticks, knives and cudgels, also followed and beat them up, thereby disenfranchising most of them. The police used tear gas canisters to disperse the invading thugs.

Our correspondent gathered that the thugs were allegedly brought on Friday night in two Sharon vehicles with the aim to disrupt the conduct of the election.

Some of the military officials who were deployed to restore sanity on the premises and ensure the peaceful conduct of the election was later withdrawn.

Immediately after the military men left the scene, thugs returned to the venue wielding sophisticated weapons while the police looked helplessly.

He expressed gratitude for the party to have given him the chance to fly the partys ticket in the 2023 House of Assembly in the local government and called on all party supporters to remain calm.

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By Ogochukwu Anioke, Abakaliki

Ebonyi Governor David Umahi has called for flushing out of all criminal elements from the forests in the southeast by security agencies.

The Governor stated this in Abakaliki, capital of Ebonyi State on Monday.

He spoke at the All Progressive Congress (APC) Ebonyi State chapter stakeholders meeting, which held at the Ecumenical Centre.

He said: In our forests today, we have the kidnappers, herdsmen, cultists, all sorts of criminals, anybody staying in the forest is taking a risk, when we say that people should move out of the forests, it is for their safety and security, so I support that kidnappers, herdsmen, cultists, and bandits should be flushed out of our forests.

Umahi, who is also the Chairman of Southeast Governors Forum, said the zone had since banned the movement of cows by foot.

He enjoined leaders to exhibit patriotism in their conduct to guarantee unity.

He called on leaders and stakeholders of the zone to speak up and desist from playing politics with the security of the zone and nation.

Governors of South East have been calling on our leaders to speak out on the security of the zone and unity of Nigeria, I read on paper where someone said he was giving Governors of South East 7-days to ban open grazing, the Governors of southeast had banned open grazing and movement of cows by foot into South East, in each of States of the South East, we are managing ourselves well, what we discuss with the herdsmen is the system in place for a long time.

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By Joshua Chibuzo Andrew, Owerri

The operatives of the Imo state police command have dislodged a camp belonging to the Eastern Security Network, ESN, in Agwa Oguta LGA of Imo state.

ASP Henry Okoye, the Imo state Police Public Relations Officer, in a statement issued on Tuesday, said the operatives of the command Tactical Team, on a tip-off, maneuvered their way into the identified criminal hideout and raided it.

The statement reads, the hoodlums on sighting the police operatives immediately engaged them in a fierce gun duel but were later overpowered by the superior firearms of the police who professionally took vantage position forcing the criminals to flee with various degrees of gunshot injuries.

The operatives, according to the statement, recovered various ammunition including three automatic pump action guns, thirty-one rounds of live cartridges, fifty-nine rounds of AK 47 ammunition, o e police hand grenade, IPOB/ESN insignia, blue and black color police uniforms, P-cap, police belt, military camouflage uniform, black color tiger 150 motorcycles, one red daylong motorcycle, one black KYMCO motorcycle, one silver color honda ladys motorcycle, one black traveling bag among other items recovered from their hideout.

Meanwhile, the Imo state Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Barde, while commending the gallantry exhibited by the commands operatives, further urged them to continue to mop up illicit firearms and dislodge all criminal hideouts in the state.

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By Izunna Okafor

The operatives of the Kastina State Police Command have arrested a 30-year-old man, Abubakar Abdulaziz, for allegedly kidnapping and murdering a 3-year-old boy after collecting ransom to release him.

The Police Public Relations Officer of the Command, CSP Gambo Isah made this known in a statement issued to newsmen, in which he also that the suspect has confessed to have buried the child alive.

According to CSP Isah, the child was kidnapped at about 1.am on March 23 at Bacirawa Village, Musawa Local Government Area of the State when his parents was deep asleep, after which no member of his family ever saw him alive again

The statement partly read: On 12/4/2023, at about 1500hrs, the command succeeded in arresting one Abubakar Abdulaziz, 30 years old, of Sabuwar Santa, Musawa Local Government Area Katsina State, a suspected kidnapper, and killer of a three-year-old child.

The fact of the case is that on 23/3/2023, at about 0100hrs, the suspect criminally trespassed into the residence of one Adamu Alhassan, of Bacirawa village, Musawa Local Government Area, Katsina State, while he was deep asleep, and kidnapped his three-year-old son to an unknown destination.

He dropped a letter directing the said Adamu Alhassan to pay a ransom of N800,000 and providing a contact phone number.

However, the father made contact, negotiated and paid the sum of N150,000 to secure the release of his child but to no avail.

Upon receipt of the report, immediately detectives swung into action and succeeded in arresting the suspect (Abubakar Abdulaziz) in connection with the case.

During the course of investigation, he confessed to the commission of the offence and further confessed to having buried the child alive after receiving the ransom money.

The investigation is ongoing.

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The senator representing Kaduna Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly, Shehu Sani, has vowed that he cannot be a sportsman in an election where there was no contest.

Shehu Sani who was addressing members of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Kaduna, said the conduct of the 2019 general elections falls short of expectations.

The senator complained that elections in most parts of Kaduna State were characterized by irregularities.

Shehu Sani, therefore, called for the outright cancellation of the election in Kaduna state.
AbdulRashid Maina

Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the Department of State Service has arrested former Chairman of the Pension Reform Task Force, AbdulRashid Maina.

Maina, who was embroiled in N2.1billion pension scam was arrested through a joint effort by the EFCC and DSS, sources told SaharaReporters.

According to the source, Maina was arrested in a hotel in Abuja as he attempted escaping by shooting at the DSS operatives detailed to arrest him.

The source said, He hid himself in a bulletproof car for several hours before he was forced out by the operatives.

On the request of the EFCC, the DSS have been monitoring his movement for days before now.

It was gathered that one Zainab Buratai, a woman who claimed to be a business woman and philanthropist in Abuja, by her Twitter handle but no established direct connection with the Chief of Army Staff, said Maina has been using her influence in the police force, to terrorize his extended family. Mainz had ordered one of her nephew, Sadiq to arrested.

Sadiq was beaten to comma on the allegation of stealing $1.7m belonging to Maina.

Whereas, Mainas biological son has admitted stealing the fathers money and Mainas son Laila confirmed taken possession of the unspent stolen fund from the son.

Mainas younger brother, Khalid, was also arrested and detained by officers of the IG special team under Abba Kyari.

It took intervention of senior police officers to secure the release of Khalid last weekend.

Personnel of the anti-graft agency have arrested several agents, couriers, informant and subordinates of Maina the last 2 months and several properties hidden under several proxies and concubine seized from the fugitive.

As at the time of this report, the DSS is still profiling Maina and possibly would hand him offer to the EFCC later today or sometime soon.

His possession of firearm, among other is to be investigated by the DSS.

Maina is being aided by top government officials led by Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, to evade trial and prosecution following his embezzlement of N2.1billion pension fund.

Maina in January 2019, secured a court order stopping the EFCC from declaring him wanted.

Justice Giwa Ogunbanjo of the Federal High Court described the action of the anti-graft agency in declaring Maina wanted as unlawful.

A non-governmental organisation, Centre for Law and Civil Culture, has approached the Federal High Court in Lagos to compel the AGF to account for the assets recovered from Maina.

The suit marked FHC/L/CS/756/2019 has the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission as the second respondent.

The group is seeking a mandamus order to compel the AGF and the EFCC to provide it with information on the 270 landed properties, exotic cars, money and other valuables allegedly recovered from Maina.

The group said its suit followed the alleged refusal of the EFCC to oblige its request for information via a December 28, 2018 letter.
President Muhammadu Buhari in 2003, after he lost election under the defunct ANPP, decided to stage protests all over the country, and he was never arrested or prosecuted. The rally was disbanded by police, and Buhari was told to go to court.

That was the defence of Femi Falana, lead lawyer on Omoyele Sowores defence team in the suit the federal government filed against the Sahara Reporters publisher and RevolutionNow protest leader who has been in DSS detention since August 3.

Falana also stated before Justice Ijeoma Ojiukwu of the Abuja Federal High Court that the current leaders of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, including President Buhari, in 2011, called for the kind of revolution that took place in Egypt.

The SAN however pointed out that Sowore had specifically warned his followers not to engage in any form of violence.

We submit that the use of the word Revolution is not a criminal offence in Nigeria and it has never been criminalized. Hence, President Buhari called for a revolution and was never arrested or prosecuted, he said.

According to him, the only time some youths were arrested for using the term revolution was in 1948 under the colonial era, noting they were not charged with treason but with sedition.

He also argued the federal government has failed to give any cogent reason why Sowore should not be released on bail pending his trial because he is presumed innocent by virtue of section 36 of the 1999 Constitution.

On count-two of the charge that bordered on the allegation that Sowore insulted President Buhari, Falana argued that under the law, no public office is allowed to use the machinery of the state to settle scores with his opponent.

If the President feels offended by any statement made by the 1st defendant, the only option open to him into sue for libel. He said the Court of Appeal, in its judgement in 2008, upheld the right of Nigerians to protest against the government without firstly security police permit.

On the allegation of money laundering, he argued the charge is not enough to deny the defendants bail, when those that stole billions have all been granted bail.

He cited the Dokubo- Asari case in which the warlord admitted in his own statement that he was involved in the blowing up of pipelines in the Niger Delta.

Sowore never admitted that he committed any offence in his own statement.

Falana, therefore, urged the court to grant Sowore, who was the AAC presidential candidate in the last election, bail on self-recognizance as a political leader.

He also reminded the court that Sowore was earlier granted bail on the condition that he would deposit his international passport with the Registrar.

Justice Ijeoma Ojukwu would later grant Swore bail I the sum of N100m, and restriction of his movement to Abuja only, after depositing his international travel documents with the court.

PV: 0
<! Governor Sanwo-Olu, with his team >

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday disclosed that eight more Coronavirus patients have been discharged in the state.

He said they were discharged after testing negative twice for the deadly virus.

The governor disclosed that the eight survivors included two female and six male.

More great news today from our Mainland Infectious Disease Hospital, Yaba. 8 more people; 2 females and 6 males have tested negative and fully recovered from #COVID19. They have been discharged to return to their families, he tweeted on Tuesday.

Sanwo-Olu said the discharge of the eight Coronavirus patients brought to 69, the total number of patients discharged so far in the State.

In his words: This brings the number of patients successfully managed and discharged from our facilities to 69. Please, let us continue to adhere to all the safety advice from our health experts.

On Monday, the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control, NCDC, confirmed 189 confirmed cases of Coronavirus in Lagos, out of which 61 had been discharged.

As at Monday, Lagos has 120 active cases of Coronavirus, but as at 5:21pm on Tuesday, it has decreased to 112 after the State discharged eight patients.

So far, Lagos has recorded six death, two evacuation cases and three transfer cases.
BLOOMINGTON  An Indiana man died in a traffic crash Monday in rural McLean County, authorities said.

Nathan A. Walloch, 28, of Camby, Ind., died from multiple blunt injuries after a collision between his vehicle and a sport utility vehicle, according to a statement from McLean County Coroner Dr. Kathy Yoder.

Walloch was the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle, Yoder said. Toxicology tests were pending Tuesday afternoon.

Illinois State Police previously said they responded late Monday to a two-vehicle fatal crash on U.S. 136 at 150 East Road in Mount Hope Township. More information about the crash was not immediately available.

This incident remains under investigation by the McLean County Coroner's office and the Illinois State Police, authorities said.

Cities with the highest rate of motor vehicle fatalities Cities with the highest rate of motor vehicle fatalities #50. Oklahoma City #49. Salt Lake City #48. Wichita, Kansas #47. Newport News, Virginia #46. St. Petersburg, Florida #45. Miami #44. Montgomery, Alabama #43. Huntsville, Alabama #42. Toledo, Ohio #41. New Orleans #40. Phoenix #39. Bakersfield, California #38. Fresno, California #37. Augusta-Richmond County consolidated government, Georgia #36. Tulsa, Oklahoma #35. Fayetteville, North Carolina #34. Milwaukee #33. Akron, Ohio #32. Hollywood, Florida #31. Mobile, Alabama #30. Kansas City, Kansas #29. Indianapolis #28. Nashville-Davidson metro, Tennessee #27. Orlando, Florida #26. Tampa, Florida #25. Knoxville, Tennessee #24. Atlanta #23. Dallas #22. Shreveport, Louisiana #21. Springfield, Missouri #20. Palmdale, California #19. Kansas City, Missouri #18. Lancaster, California #17. Louisville-Jefferson County metro, Kentucky #16. Chattanooga, Tennessee #15. Fort Lauderdale, Florida #14. Albuquerque, New Mexico #13. Macon-Bibb County, Georgia #12. Glendale, Arizona #11. Jacksonville, Florida #10. Cleveland #9. San Bernardino, California #8. Birmingham, Alabama #7. Little Rock, Arkansas #6. Tucson, Arizona #5. Baton Rouge, Louisiana #4. St. Louis #3. Detroit #2. Jackson, Mississippi #1. Memphis, Tennessee
The agency said in a social media post shortly before 11 p.m. that troopers were on the scene of the crash on U.S. 136 at 150 East Road. The highway was expected to be closed for several hours, and drivers were directed to avoid the area.
BLOOMINGTON  A Bloomington man has been sentenced to 13 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections for possession with intent to sell cocaine.

Duane K. Martin, 34, pleaded guilty Monday with possessing between 15 and 100 grams of cocaine with the intent to deliver.

Martin had been charged with seven other counts related to cocaine possession and delivery, but those were dismissed as part of the plea agreement, according to court documents.

Martin received credit for 306 days in custody of the McLean County Jail and must serve half of his sentence before being eligible for parole.

He was also ordered to pay court fees and fines and to serve 18 years of mandatory supervised release.

Martin's attorney did not return requests for comment at the time of publishing.
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

April 18, 1923: The city council was petitioned to change the name of Longworth Street to Jackson Street. The petition was referred to Commissioner Anderson of the department of streets and public improvements and signed by all the residents on Longworth Street.

75 years ago

April 18, 1948: It may sound like something from Al Capp's "Li'l Abner," but Bloomington-Normal has a new claim to fame, courtesy of its cockroach population. The dubious distinction of being a roaches' retreat has been conferred on the Twin Cities by students from the University of Illinois, who travel here weekly to collect insects that they will use in testing new types of insecticides.

50 years ago

April 18, 1973: Gwendolyn Brooks, poet laureate of Illinois and 1950 Pulitzer Prize winner in poetry, will deliver the 114th commencement address for Illinois Wesleyan University. She will also receive an honorary doctor of humanities degree from the university as part of the May 20 ceremony.

25 years ago

April 18, 1998: Forty of Herman Brockman's former students, many now distinguished scientists in their fields, hosted a daylong science symposium in his name at Illinois State University. Brockman retires in May after 35 years as an ISU biology teacher. "He taught me how to think," said one former student, Dr. Sarz Maxwell, now a psychiatrist with the Illinois Department of Mental Health.

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'
Question: While students about to graduate from Illinois high schools are required to take a government/citizenship/civics test to qualify for a diploma, another course is no longer required that until the 1950s was a requirement in Illinois schools. Do you know what that course was?
Last week's mass shooting at the Old National Bank in downtown Louisville is the latest reminder of Americas worsening epidemic of gun violence. It should be more than enough to spur elected officials to pass common-sense measures to keep guns away from unstable individuals.

The Louisville shooting left five people dead and at least eight wounded, including two police officers. Despite his mental-health issues, the shooter was able to legally purchase an AR-15-style rifle the week before. The massacre came just two weeks after three nine-year-old students and three staffers at a school in Nashville were killed by a disturbed individual who had managed to stockpile seven guns despite having been diagnosed with an emotional disorder.

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, who lost a close friend in the Louisville shooting, gave an emotional speech this week on the need to prevent future tragedies. As a Democrat who supports tougher gun laws, but faces a veto-proof Republican legislature, his frustration is understandable. Other officials have less excuse for inaction.

The fact is, research shows that a majority of mass shooters exhibit warning signs before committing murder. Laws that aim to prevent these people from accessing firearms are a critical tool in reducing the likelihood of mass shootings.

Known as red-flag laws, such measures allow police or family members to ask a court to temporarily confiscate weapons belonging to unstable individuals. Theyre one of the few gun-safety policies that command a degree of bipartisan support  and they seem likely to work: A study of Connecticuts red-flag policy credited the law preventing at least one death for every 10 to 20 times it was used. A California study of 21 cases found that after guns were taken from individuals whod made explicit shooting threats, no further violence occurred.

Last year, Congress passed the most significant federal legislation on guns in nearly three decades, which included federal grants to encourage states to institute red-flag policies of their own. Unfortunately, this push has only hardened opposition among lawmakers in Republican-controlled states.

As of 2020, 19 states and the District of Columbia had red-flag laws on the books, with Florida and Indiana the only ones to pass them under Republican leadership. In the years since, despite scores of mass shootings, those numbers havent changed. Neither Tennessee nor Kentucky has adopted a red-flag law; in fact, Tennessee is one of multiple red states to pass recent legislation making gun access even easier. Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, a Republican, said that he will push state lawmakers to pass a red-flag law in the wake of the Nashville massacre  a belated but welcome step forward.

Red-flag laws arent failsafe. In the past year, gunmen have carried out mass shootings in California, Colorado and New York, all of which have enacted such laws. In Colorado, several local sheriffs announced their resistance to enforcing red-flag laws, questioning their constitutionality; in New York, authorities believed that statements made by an eventual mass shooter who underwent a two-day mental-health evaluation werent specific enough to trigger the law, thus enabling him to acquire an assault rifle as soon as he turned 18.

Yet these failures dont invalidate the broader concept; they show that more work is needed to ensure that red-flag laws are effective. States need to tighten such statutes to remove ambiguities and clarify when authorities should act. President Joe Bidens administration has already tasked federal agencies to partner with law enforcement, health care providers, educators and other community leaders to expand public awareness of red-flag laws; it should expand this campaign to persuade states to strengthen enforcement of the law while addressing concerns over gun owners due-process rights. As a necessary step to get more red states on board, Biden should regularly publicize the fact red-flag laws have withstood numerous legal challenges  including in Republican-leaning Florida, where judges have approved red-flag requests more than 8,000 times since 2018.

Gun-rights extremists will surely continue to oppose such laws. But sensible people of both parties should recognize that theyre the most promising approach yet devised to address the national scourge of mass shootings. Its hard to imagine a worthier cause to support.

Bloomberg Opinion
On the heels of a divisive mayoral election, news that Chicago has been chosen to host the 2024 Democratic National Convention reawakens something that feels like hope.

Thats partly because of the welcome emergence in this drama of something that has been all too rare even among Illinoisans in the same political party. Cooperation.

Chicago edged out New York and Atlanta for the Democratic National Committees approval. With the city coping with surging violent crime and the economic aftereffects of the pandemic, the convention decision puts the spotlight on why the city has such strong appeal for the nations Democrats.

Experience

No other city comes close to pulling off the number of national political conventions that Chicago has hosted for both parties  25, from the 1860 Republican convention that nominated Illinois favorite son Abraham Lincoln to 1996, when Democrats renominated Bill Clinton in the United Center, where next years convention is to be held.

Unions

The main decision-maker in choosing the convention city was President Joe Biden, which, much to the dismay of Georgians, gave a big advantage to Chicago. The Windy City is still a big union town, and that gave Chicago a decisive edge over Atlanta.

Location, location, location

Also important is Chicagos location amid the Midwests blue wall states  Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan and Minnesota. Each of those states had Democrats reelected as governors in last years midterms.

The United Center offers one of the largest arenas in North America. The convention, scheduled for Aug. 19-22 next year, is expected to draw 5,000 to 7,000 delegates and alternates to the arena, and up to 50,000 visitors to the city.

Costs vs. benefits

Conventions cost money  lots of it  and the price tag can turn out to be wildly underestimated when it comes due. At the end of the 2012 Democratic convention in Charlotte, North Carolina, Democrats still owed money on everything from operational expenses to construction work and modifications made to the Time Warner Cable Arena, according to Politico.

The cost of Chicago hosting the convention would be somewhere between $80 million and $100 million, according to various reports. Pritzkers team has expressed hopes of a financially risk-free 2024 convention, hinting that a billionaire governor could be an attractive stopgap.

Redemption

Anyone who remembers the Democrats disastrous 1968 convention at Chicagos International Amphitheatre knows why, as the Tribunes Ron Grossman wrote, The phrase 68 Convention was about to join Al Capone as mnemonic shorthand for the more notorious chapters of Chicagos history.

That was the summer when protests and bitter feelings against the war in Vietnam, the draft, and the assassinations of Martin Luther King Jr. in April and Robert F. Kennedy in June boiled over into the convention hall and the streets. Images of Chicago police beating protesters in Grant Park as they chanted The whole world is watching were broadcast around the world.

A commission appointed by President Lyndon Johnson and headed by businessman and future Illinois governor Dan Walker characterized the disaster as a police riot.

None of that did anything to hurt Richard M. Nixons presidential bid, which the Republican easily won the following November by campaigning on such themes as law and order and peace with honor.

But 28 years would pass before Democrats would return to Chicago, partly through diligent efforts by Mayor Richard M. Daley to redeem the reputation of the city and his father, Mayor Richard J. Daley, who had been mayor in 1968.

As image redemption, the 1996 convention worked like a charm. The younger Mayor Daley spruced up boulevards with flowers, brightened transit tunnels with new paint and controlled protests, which were much smaller than in 1968, with comparative restraint.

Morale is a difficult entity to value in dollars, but in terms of how people feel about their city and the future of the country, convention moments like that can be priceless.

Chicago Tribune
Integrated marketing and Communications Company, Global Media Alliance has announced its preparedness to host the 7th edition of the prestigious Ghana Beverage Awards (GBA) scheduled to come off on Friday, April 21 2023 at the plush Kempinski Gold Coast City Accra.



According to the organizers, the awards night promises patrons a night full of captivating experiences whiles rewarding ingenuity and effort of players of the beverage industry.



Speaking ahead of the event, Chief Executive Officer for Global Media Alliance, Ernest Boateng, lauded the participating beverage companies for their high level of participation in all activities that were earmarked to herald the awards night.



As organizers, we followed with keen interest the high levels of energy and enthusiasm that was channeled into the various activities held to herald the main event and I must say that years participation has been exceptional. We would like to express our sincerest gratitude for your commitment, and we make a solemn promise to innovate and make GBA always worth looking forward to.



Since inception, the awards scheme has grown on all levels including the number of votes, entries and categories; a true reflection of your growing acceptance of the scheme which we never take for granted. As always, we will continue to welcome and acknowledge your feedback, as part of efforts to cement the schemes position as a reference point for excelling beverage companies who have demonstrated commitment to satisfying the ever-changing needs of consumers, he said.



He noted that his outfit is committed to providing an unforgettable experience for patrons and well wishers of the beverage industry.



Our theme which seeks to inspire excellence is the benchmark of the experience we seek to give patrons of the night. Trust our team of event managers to exceed expectations of patrons.



GBA is proudly supported by the Food and Beverage Association of Ghana (FABAG), Consumer Protection Agency (CPA), Food Research Institute (FRI) under CSIR, Silverbird Cinemas, Perception Management International (PMI) ,Ministry of Trade and Industry, Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture and the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA).Its media partners are: Citi FM, Happy FM, YFM, Neesim FM Bolga Neesim FM Tamale, eTV Ghana, Mx 24, Business and Financial Times, Nyjdlive.com, Daily Guide and Ghanaweb.



Source: Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
Samuel Dubik Mahama, the Managing Director of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), has confirmed that former President John Dramani Mahama has been paying his own electricity bills.



It may be recalled that the former President in an exclusive interview with TV3 disclosed that apart from government providing his monthly pension, he pays all other bills including electricity himself.



Reacting to this in an interview on Peace FM's morning show 'Kokrokoo', the ECG MD confirmed to Kwami Sefa Kayi, host of the show that Mahama takes care of his own electricity bills.



"We collate the bills of the former Presidents and take them to the Chief of Staff to pay. Former President Kufours bills were with us, we've given them to the Chief of Staff and she has worked on them. We also had former President John Mahamas ownwe got in touch with him, and we realized that he has already been paying his own billsso moving forward, we will discuss with him so that his bills will be absorbed" he indicated.



According to him, the mistake is "from my office...we have now put structures in place after a very comprehensive conversation with the Chief of Staff. She told us her peace of mind and told us exactly what we have to do. If we were doing our work well, this would not have happened in the first place".



Listen to him in the video below





Source: Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
Prioritising agriculture is the panacea for the country weaning itself off the clutches of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the immediate past Minister of Food and Agriculture, Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto, has stated.



Im saying that we need to prioritise agriculture in terms of public allocation of funds. Our budget should prioritise agriculture and if we do that, the farmers will be able to produce so much for export and food security that we would not need to go and borrow money to finance our debts, he said.



Dr Akoto, who was sharing his vision with the Daily Graphic in an interview, said if the country should prioritise agriculture, we should be able to get money to fund all our development activities including industrialisation, education, health, infrastructure and all those needs.



Tree crops

He said if attention was paid to the tree crop sector alone, the country would be able to generate enough money for all her developmental needs.



Dr Akoto said it was in that vein that he championed the establishment of the Tree Crops Development Authority, which was currently established under an act of Parliament, Act 2019, (Act 1010).



The body itself, which is headquartered in Kumasi, was inaugurated by the President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, in 2020. The only problem is that the seed fund that is required for them to take off is not adequate enough.



Out of $5 million yearly for three years making $15 million needed for them to really take off, as we speak, they are in their third year but only $1.3 million has been disbursed, said describing the TCDA as having the potential of raking in revenue between $6 billion and $12 billion.



Dr Akoto said, for instance, that Ivory Coast, with five commercial tree crops of cocoa, coffee, cashew, oil palm and rubber, was generating between $6 billion and $8 billion annually.



He said, interestingly, the tree crops under the TCDA, cashew, rubber, oil palm, mango, coconut and shea had a better chance of raking in more because Ghana had better and more land as compared to Ivory Coast.



Dr Akoto expressed regret that the TCDA could not take off properly because of the challenges that it was confronted with, saying that with the $1.3 billion, the TCDA could not function the way it should with the projected $15 million.



So, when I talk about prioritising agric, this a classic example, the former minister said



Political ambition

Asked about his political ambition, Dr Akoto said, I want to bear the flag of this party to give me the opportunity to bring about the necessary changes in this party to stand us in a good position to win the 2024 December election.



Basically, Im in this race as a result of what I observed to be things which were not well managed in the party that nearly cost us in the 2020 election, he said.



He expressed concern that during the campaigns leading to the 2020 election, it came out clearly that there were lots of conflicts among party executives, district chief executives and the Members of Parliament (MPs).



Apart from the conflict, a lot of the party people on the ground, throughout the country, are complaining about lack of employment and all kinds of complaints from the base all the way to the top, he stated, adding that since his resignation from office, I used the time to consult stakeholders as to what requirements were needed to win the 2024 general election.



I consulted from the polling stations through to their supervisors, who are the coordinators, to the constituency executives to the regional and national level, he added, saying that he used that last three months since his resignation in trying to understand the nature of the problems the party faced.















Source: graphiconline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
A soundtrack of explosions, a skyline dominated by bitter, black smoke, a daily existence of fear and uncertainty as bullets, rockets and rumours fly.



Life in Sudan's capital, Khartoum, and in many other parts of the country, has taken a sudden, very dramatic turn for the worse.



At the heart of it are two generals: Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the leader of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), and Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, better known as Hemedti, the head of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).



The two worked together, and carried out a coup together - now their battle for supremacy is tearing Sudan apart.



The relationship between the two goes back a long way.



Both played key roles in the counter-insurgency against Darfuri rebels, in the civil war in Sudan's western region that began in 2003.



Gen Burhan rose to control the Sudanese army in Darfur.



Hemedti was the commander of one of the many Arab militias, collectively known as the Janjaweed, which the government employed to brutally put down the largely non-Arab Darfuri rebel groups.



Majak D'Agoot was the deputy director of the National Intelligence and Security Services at the time - before becoming deputy defence minister in South Sudan when it seceded in 2011.



He met Gen Burhan and Hemedti in Darfur, and said they worked well together. But he told the BBC he saw little sign that either would rise to the top of the state.



Hemedti was simply a militia leader "playing a counter-insurgency role, helping the military", while Gen Burhan was a career soldier, though "with all the ambitions of the Sudanese officer corps, anything was possible".



The military has been running Sudan for most of its post-independence history.



The government's tactics in Darfur, once described by Sudan expert Alex de Waal as "counter-insurgency on the cheap", used regular troops, ethnic militias and air power to fight off the rebels - with little to no regard for civilian casualties.



Darfur has been described as the first genocide of the 21st Century, with the Janjaweed accused of ethnic cleansing and using mass rape as a weapon of war.



Hemedti eventually became the commander of what could be described as an offshoot of the Janjaweed, his RSF.



Hemedti's power grew massively once he began supplying troops to fight for the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen.



Sudan's then-military ruler, Omar al-Bashir, came to rely on Hemedti and the RSF as a counterweight to the regular armed forces, in the hope that it would be too difficult for any single armed group to depose him.



In the end - after months of popular protests - the generals clubbed together to overthrow Bashir, in April 2019.



Later that year, they signed an agreement with the protesters to form a civilian-led government overseen by the Sovereign Council, a joint civilian-military body, with Gen Burhan at its head, and Hemedti as his deputy.



It lasted two years - until October 2021 - when the military struck, taking power for themselves, with Gen Burhan again at the head of the state and Hemedti again his deputy.



Siddig Tower Kafi was a civilian member of the Sovereign Council, and so regularly met the two generals.



He said he saw no sign of any disagreements until after the 2021 coup.



Then "Gen Burhan started to restore the Islamists and the former regime members to their old positions", he told the BBC.



"It was becoming clear that the plan of Gen Burhan was to restore the old regime of Omar al-Bashir to power."



Mr Siddig says that this is when Hemedti began to have doubts, as he felt Bashir's cronies had never fully trusted him.



Sudanese politics has always been dominated by an elite largely drawn from the ethnic groups based around Khartoum and the River Nile.



Hemedti comes from Darfur, and the Sudanese elite often talk about him and his soldiers in pejorative terms, as "country bumpkins" unfit to rule the state.



Over the last two or three years, he has tried to position himself as a national figure, and even as a representative of the marginalised peripheries - trying to forge alliances with rebel groups in Darfur and South Kordofan that he had previously been tasked with destroying.



He has also spoken regularly of a need for democracy despite his forces having brutally put down civilian protests in the past.



Tensions between the army and the RSF grew as a deadline for forming a civilian government approached, focused on the thorny issue of how the RSF should be re-integrated into the regular armed forces.

Source: BBC









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Rt Rev. Bosomtwe Ayensu, a former Methodist Bishop of Obuasi has tasked Ghanaians to take blame for the state of the country as much as they blame the government of the day.



He told Accra-based Rainbow Radio in an interview (April 17, 2023) that it was untenable that Ghanaians were always fixated on demanding of government but not meeting political leadership halfway.



Zooming in on the state of the economy, he defended government's decision to go to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) stating that they were forced to do so. He also mentioned how Ghanaians appeared averse to paying taxes.



"People keep complaining the taxes we pay are one too many. Ghanaians are not truthful and wicked. We do not want to help each other. We must be responsible and truthful, and patriotic.



"We should also blame ourselves as Ghanaians just as we blame the government. We keep blaming the government but have refused to blame ourselves for whatever we have also contributed to the mess we are in. What are we also doing to help the country develop? he quizzed.



On the issue of government's return to the IMF, he explained: "This is not deliberate. The government had told us that it would not go back to the IMF, but in the past, they told us they would not go.



"There is a reason for whatever we do. What happened was not deliberate, and if we see anything deliberate, we will talk, he told Kwabena Agyapong on Frontline on Rainbow Radio 87.5Fm.



Government has serially blamed the COVID pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war for the economic challenges.



Some domestic measures to secure an IMF bailout was the passage and recent assent of three new taxes: Excise Duty Amendment Bill 2022, the Growth and Sustainability Levy Bill, 2022, the Ghana Revenue Authority Bill 2022 and the Income Tax Amendment Bill 2022.



The bills were presented to Parliament as part of government's plans to raise about 4 billion Ghana Cedis annually in domestic revenue mobilisation.



They are also crucial to help secure Board Approval for the US$3 billion International Monetary Fund (IMF) Programme after a staff-level agreement was reached late last year.







Source: ghanaweb.com









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Dr Anita Owusu-Afriyie, a Medical Officer in the Oncology Unit of the International Maritime Hospital (IMaH), has cautioned against engaging multiple sexual partners as the practice is hazardous.



She said the expedition of multiple sexual partners exposes both the practitioner and the innocent partners to great danger and vulnerability, therefore, increasing the chance of meeting a person who is carrying the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a cancer-causing virus.



The virus that causes HPV infection is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact. Most people get a genital HPV infection through direct sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex.



Dr. Mrs. Owusu-Afriyie said this at the weekly meeting, Your Health! Our Collective Responsibility! A Ghana News Agency Tema Regional Office initiative aimed at promoting communication on health-related topics and setting the medium for the propagation of health information to influence personal health choices by improving health literacy.



Your Health! Our Collective Responsibility is a public health advocacy platform initiated by the Ghana News Agency Tema Regional Office to explore the parameters of the four approaches to health communication: informative, educational, persuasive, and prompting.



Speaking on the topic: Some cancers and how to prevent them, Dr. Mrs. Owusu-Afriyie said the risk of getting HPV increases along with the number of sexual partners a person has.



If you had a positive HPV test and your Pap test was abnormal, your doctor will probably follow up with a colposcopy. Try to see a physician who specializes in this procedure.



During a colposcopy, your doctor will look more closely at the cervix, vagina, or vulva with a special microscope called a colposcope, Dr. Mrs. Owusu-Afriyie encouraged people to undergo an HPV test and Pap test.



Dr. Mrs. Owusu-Afriyie also zoomed in on the risk factors of breast cancer and stated that excessive alcohol intake, age, women who have not given birth



before, women who give birth but do not breastfeed their babies, early menarche (the first period), obesity, and family history are among them.



She said having early menarche and late menopause meant that one would have a longer period of menstruation, adding that, periods were based on the oestrogen hormones.



She said the oestrogen proliferate with cells such as fat cells to promote the growth of cancers and their spread.



She added that, breastfeeding also helps in reducing the risk, indicating that when the baby is breastfeeding, the oestrogen level goes down, giving the mother some form of protection.



She advised women to do regular breast screening to aid in early detection and treatment, stressing, however, that after doing a self-examination, one must visit the hospital for a clinical examination to help pick up any lump that might not be detected through the self-examination.



She said after clinical examination by trained doctors, if any lump is detected, a diagnostic test would then be carried out to look into the tissues to confirm if it was cancerous, after which treatment would start.



Dr. Mrs. Owusu-Afriyie added that the two types of tests that were mostly done in Ghana for breast cancer were ultrasonography for women aged below 40 years, and mammography for those aged above 40, adding that breast MRI could also be done to diagnose cancer.



She encouraged women to take advantage of the free breast screenings during the month of October, which is breast cancer awareness month, for early detection, adding however that, screening could also be done at any time.





Source: ghanaweb.com









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The Leader of the United Denominations: Group of Lighthouse Churches, Evangelist Dag Heward-Mills, urged believers to be ready for the sacrifices that comes with following Christ.



Speaking to his congregation at the 2023 Good Friday Miracle Service held at the Blackstar square, he said Christians must be ready to deny themselves of certain pleasures for the sake of the cross.



He noted that Christians must be ready to deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow him.



To him, a true believer must be willing to stand persecution that comes with Christianity rather that chasing after goodwill messages.



There is a price. People are not prepared to pay the price. Theres a price to being in ministry. Theres a price to pay to be a Christian, he said.



He warns that churches who are only interested in preaching the blessings of God without talking about the sacrifices that comes with the faith must be avoided by believers.



Be blessed be blessed. That is a false gospel. Come and be blessed. Come and get blessings when you come to God bless you and bless your business. You bless your marriage you. Bless you, bless you. Come for blessings come from misrepresentation of what God has for us, he warned.



Dag Heward-Mills, said Although Jesus, who is the leader of the faith, thought his followers that anyone who is not willing to sacrifice for the faith cannot be discipled.



Jesus rather said a man who comes to me and does not hate his father, his mother, his brother, his sister, his children ye and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. These are the words of Jesus, he added.



The evangelist, vehemently described as misrepresentation of gospel, Christians who are only interested in hearing goodwill messages only.



Because, yes, Jesus came to bless us and we get blessings when we serve the Lord. But that is not the gospel. And that is a misrepresentation. Jesus rather said a man who comes to me and does not hate his father, his mother, his brother, his sister, his children ye and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. These are the words of Jesus, he continued.





Source: Ghanaweb.com









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Gun violence sees 'no solution in polarized US' amid more mass shootings

Global Times) 10:00, April 18, 2023

Tug of gun control. Illustration: Liu Rui/GT

Gun violence is always a critical topic during US elections, but Chinese experts see little hope in the US political circle to address the issue due to its historical complexity and the extremely polarized stances of Democrats and Republicans, even as gun-related tragedies continue to occur in the country.

In the latest reflection of the miserable situation, over the past weekend, Alabama witnessed another mass shooting tragedy in the US, with four deaths and 28 injuries, while the potential Republican presidential candidates still reportedly rejected the idea of more restrictions that could curb the bloodshed as they spoke at the annual gathering of the National Rifle Association (NRA).

The Alabama shooting happened the same day that shots were fired into a crowd at a park in Louisville, Kentucky. Two people were killed and four others were wounded.

That incident was the city's second mass shooting in less than a week. On April 10, a gunman killed five people and injured several others at Louisville's Old National Bank, CNN noted.

Across the US, a total of 157 mass shootings have happened this year as of April 16, indicating an average of 1.48 cases per day during this period, according to data released by the Gun Violence Archive (GVA).

These shootings have resulted in 12,358 deaths - with 413 aged under 17 - and 9,600 injuries, according to data updated on Monday on the website.

But former president Donald Trump still insisted that "this is not a gun problem" in his speech on Friday afternoon during the NRA annual gathering. Mike Pence, Trump's vice president, also toed the line by saying that people should "stop trampling on the God-given rights of the American people every time a tragedy happens," according to a New York Times report on Friday.

Lu Xiang, research fellow at the Chinese Academy of Social, pointed out that the issue has been totally politicalized and become a label of partisan conflict in the US.

"In the US, the Democrats have to call for banning or managing guns, while Republicans will definitely stress freedom in owning guns. It's as if they are not Democrats or Republicans if they do not stick to the party's stance," Lu told the Global Times on Monday.

Such polarized stances have resulted in there being no space for the two parties to negotiate over the issue, which Lu deemed as the main reason why the problem of gun violence in the US cannot be resolved at its root.

The is a typical systemic problem of the US, Lu noted.

During the NRA annual meeting, photos of children handling firearms also made the rounds on US social media platforms over the weekend.

Even though the association said that they had rendered the guns at the exhibitions incapable of being fired, gun control advocates slammed the scene as saying "responsible gun owners and parents would not allow a child to put their finger on a firearm's trigger while pointing it at other people - even if they're props," the Insider reported.

Yuan Zheng, deputy director and a senior fellow of the Institute of American Studies at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said that even though gun violence is always a critical issue during the US elections, they will not play a decisive role.

Gun violence is a complicated issue combining historical and partisan elements as well as social factors. The current polarized US politics is making it even more difficult to solve the problem, which is actually pathetic and indicates the government's lack of capability, according to Yuan.

The US government's inability to address this "mission impossible" has laid bare the decline of US governance capacity, according to a report China released in February revealing the truth and facts of rampant US gun violence.

In June 2022, US President Joe Biden signed into law what was reportedly the most sweeping legislation aimed at preventing gun violence in 30 years.

Biden called the signing of the legislation a "monumental day" and said it was proof that Democrats and Republicans could find common ground on important issues. "God willing, it's going to save a lot of lives," he said.

However, experts see this so-called gun deal as one that just "scratches the surface", as it falls short of the essence of gun control measures expected by the public, such as prohibiting the manufacture, transfer and possession of semi-automatic assault weapons and the transfer and possession of large-capacity ammunition feeding devices; and a change to the age at which a person needs to be to purchase an assault-style weapon.

They deemed the agreement as being just a joint "political show" put on by theDemocrats and Republicans to trick the public and win votes during the midterm elections amid an outcry over gun violence following the killing of at least 19 children and two teachers at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas on May 24, 2022.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Wu Chaolan)
The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) arrested a Kenyan national last Saturday (15 April 2023) for smuggling 11.04 kilogrammes of cocaine into Kotoka International Airport (KIA) worth US$309,120.



The suspect, Mary Njeri, 35, was apprehended by NACOC officials during routine checks in the arrivals hall after disembarking from a South African Airways flight from Nairobi to Accra via Johannesburg.



A search of her luggage revealed packages of Cremora food that contained the concealed drugs.



In preliminary questioning Njeri confirmed possession of the consignment in her luggage and she was later arrested to enable further investigations.



The exhibits have been sent to the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA) for analysis and report. The suspect is being held in prison pending further inquiries and prosecution.



NACOC assured the public that it remains committed to reducing the drug trafficking threat to the country.



The Commission wishes to use this report to remind the general public in Ghana that the possession and transportation of illicit drugs without lawful authority is illegal and is punishable under Sections 40 (1) and 41 (1) of Act 1019 of the Narcotics Control Commission Act 2020.

Source: asaaseradio.com









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First Deputy Speaker of Parliament Joseph Osei-Owusu is incensed over what he calls over exploitation of Ghanaians by members GUTA.



According to the Bekwai MP, GUTA has lost the moral right to complain about tax hikes alleging that members of the association under-declare their products and also over price their goods to gain huge profit margins.



Joewise who is unhappy with the current development was reacting to concerns raised by GUTA over the introduction of the 3 revenue bills approved by parliament.



According to the association, their members are already struggling with their businesses insisting, the 3 revenue measures will impose addition hardship on them.



But in an interview with Kumasi-based Oyerepa TV, Joewise accused members of the association of dishonesty, insisting they (GUTA) are ripping of the Ghanaian consumer.



GUTA should be fair to this country. They are always taking about taxes and yet they are over exploiting Ghanaians and I am saying this without fear. I bought this tiles you see in China, some of the highest grade you can get.



But I bought less than a fraction of what they (GUTA) sell it on the market which even the weakest in China. I also payed import duties They are dishonest, they are under-declaring and inflating the prices to make huge profits on any product. He told morning show host Kwesi Parker-Wilson.



He further argued that Ghanaians are not paying enough taxes to cushion government realize its revenue target. Comparing Ghana to other African countries, the first Deputy Speaker noted that inspite of low tax collection in Ghana, 90% of African countries cannot match Ghana in terms of development.



If GUTA were to pay the right taxes on imported products, it should reflect in how much revenue we generate. Government runs a budget deficit every year and is compelled to borrow to finance the budget. So the truth of the matter is that we (as a nation) are not paying enough taxes.



...90 percent of West Africa countries cannot match Ghana in terms of development and infrastructure yet they pay more taxes than us. And yet the educated ones among GUTA are always complaining about taxes. he explained.











Source: ghanaweb.com









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Aspiring Presidential Candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Dr Kwabena Duffuor has described an appalling widely circulated video of a converted toilet facility in the Ghana Secondary School (GHANASCO), Tamale into a residential block for students.



To him, the move is as well inhuman and expects the government to take immediate measures to save the shameful situation.



It is heartbreaking and saddening that at this stage in the life of Ghana, after 66 years of Independence, some of our Senior High School children are being compelled to sleep in toilets because of the destruction of school facilities as well as the inability to rapidly replace/repair dilapidated structures.



The inhuman story coming out of the Ghana Secondary School (GHANASCO), Tamale, is nothing short of, sordid. Dr Duffuor said in a statement.



Adding that Under the Administration of President Atta-Mills, and as Finance Minister, we tirelessly worked to efficiently deploy the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFUND), and other resources to conscientiously provide a deluge of boarding facilities for existing schools, and also constructed new schools with such facilities.



In as much as we desire to provide our children with free education, we must conscientiously also ensure that our children acquire education in dignity.



While the rod is not being spared vis-a-vis the interdiction of the headmaster, let the Policy Makers honestly work towards providing adequate facilities to support the educational transformation process.



Our beloved Motherland is the only country we have so let us work together to build the Better Ghana we all desire and deserve.

Source: King Edward Ambrose Washman Addo/peacefmonline.com/ghana









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John Mahama, aspiring Presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has tasked supporters of the party to protect the ballot box and stop any moves to disrupt the polls on December 7, 2024.



Addressing branch and constituency executives in the Krachi East Municipality of the Oti Region, he advised them to work hard to defend and stay for the counting of votes.



Former President Mahama, who is seeking to lead the NDC said the party would be vigilant at the polling stations during the elections in 2024 calling for transparency at the end of the results.



He said lessons were learned from the previous elections and therefore extra vigilance was what the party needed to annex power from the New Patriotic Party (NPP).



He tasked the constituency and regional executives to make a commitment to run an effective campaign that would drill down to the branches and make available campaign materials and organizations for them to work.



John Mahama, who is confident of becoming flagbearer of the NDC asked the delegates to support him and the party to win the 2024 elections after the presidential primaries.



He urged all parliamentary aspirants to unite after primaries for the NDC to win the elections.



He was accompanied on the tour by Professor Joshua Alabi, former NDC appointees, former MPs, former Ambassadors, some national executives, and the regional officers.





Source: GNA









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Former President John Dramani Mahama has opened up for the first time how he felt when his presidency was described as incompetent by some members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).



According to him, he felt frustrated when his opponents described him as incompetent during his administration.



He indicated that frustration took better part of him to respond that his critics has never been a President before and does not know what it takes to be President and no one having never been president can describe him as incompetent.



Do you remember Incompetent Mahama administration?.



They kept saying this for long to the extent that one time because it was frustrating me, I replied them.



Normally, I dont reply such things but you remember Trade Fair, I told them you have not been president before. Even the Presidencys wind has not blown around you, so you dont have experience. The role is not that easy, it is quite a task. So, one does it and hands over to another to continue, he said in Twi.



But they said I should shut up, I know nothing  Incompetent Mahama, incompetent Mahama and they spoke the Queens English too, Mr. Mahama made confession when addressing the delegates of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Suhum in the Eastern Region.



He believes that the tag given him has proven futile as evidenced by the management of the economy now.



It would be recalled that prior to the 2016 elections, then New Patriotic Party Presidential Candidate Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Vice Presidential Candidate Dr Mahamudu Bawumia had often described the managers of the former administration as incompetent.



According to Mr Mahama, the current economic crisis proved that the Akufo-Addo government deceived Ghanaians into voting for him.



He pointed out that the NDC is the only party that can deliver on any promise of development to the people of Ghana.

Source: Daily Guide









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The outstanding leadership of the Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Agency(EPA) Hon. Dr. Henry Kwabena Kokofu, has attracted attention from groups within the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).



One such group is the NPP Northern Patriots, a group based in Tamale, who are calling on the leadership of the ruling party to consider the former Bantama legislator as a strategic choice ahead of the 2024 elections.



The group believes Dr. Kokofu has distinguished himself very well, both as an MP and the Executive Director of the EPA, since his appointment.



According to the group, Dr. Kokofu "is also endowed with personality; and ticks all the boxes for a major role in ensuring that the ruling New Patriotic Party can break the 8 come December 2024"



The NPP Northern Patriots is of the view that the party would require someone who is untainted and possesses the requisite qualities to attract floating voters, as well as the middle class.



Responding to a question as to why a Northern Group will root for someone other than their own for a running mate, the Spokesperson for the group, Nyaaba Nyanburi, said the group considered competence over any other criteria, stressing that the NPP can only break the 8 with leaders who are competent and appealing to voters.

Source: King Edward Ambrose Washman Addo/peacefmonline.com/ghana









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In 1873, Comstock founded the New York Society for the Suppression of Vice  a society whose crest bore two images: a man in a top hat shoving another man into a jail cell, and perhaps the same gentleman tossing a pile of books onto a pyre. That year Comstock also successfully lobbied Congress to pass the Comstock Act, a law prohibiting the possession, sale, distribution or mailing of "obscene, lewd, lascivious, indecent, filthy or vile" materials, which could include things like pornographic books and photos, but also contraception. Violation of the Comstock Act was punishable with fines and prison sentences.

After Comstock's anti-obscenity bill was signed, he was assigned as a special agent and inspector to the U.S. Postal Office, giving him the power to enforce the law. Under court order, Comstock seized and burned millions of books, newspapers, pamphlets, photographs and other printed materials  many of them educational documents about then-taboo topics: sexual health, atheism, homosexuality, contraception, abortion and equality of the sexes.

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Under the Comstock Act, the first violation imposes a five-year maximum prison sentence, while subsequent ones can rack up 10 years. Over 3,000 people were arrested under the law, serving what added up to 600 years in prison. Comstock acted as personal and political nemesis to early feminists like Emma Goldman and Planned Parenthood founder Margaret Sanger. He was even known to boast about the number of "libertines" he drove to suicide.
But let's assume that the U.S. takes jurisdiction over a space murder. Investigating the crime and building a case is going to be tricky, considering that the crime scene and potential witnesses are outside the Earth. "You may have to add a whole new profession  space cop," Hanlon says. "There's going to be a tremendous cost to send somebody into space just to investigate a murder." In fact, it may drain resources that would go to other things that we want astronauts to be doing, such as performing research and exploring the cosmos.

And gathering evidence in space or on another planet or moon might be especially difficult. As this 2018 Atlantic article explains, DNA  increasingly, a key means of identifying perpetrators  would age differently on Mars than on Earth, because of the increased exposure to solar radiation due to the red planet's thinner atmosphere. Additionally, lower gravity would lead to such things as different splatter patterns from stab wounds. On the plus side, the ubiquitous Martian dust clinging to the exteriors of space suits and other surfaces might provide a valuable new sort of evidence.

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"It creates incredible complexities," Hanlon says. But even so, she figures that investigators and prosecutors will find a way to deal with it. "Our law developed before fingerprints and DNA. When you prosecute a criminal case, you do what you can with what you're given."

Space murder may also require the courts to grapple with Fourth Amendment issues, since astronauts are continually being monitored in myriad ways, including on video. "There's a value to having cameras in every room of a spacecraft," Hanlon says. "But do you have an expectation of privacy?" Hanlon expects that many of these questions will be resolved by wise judges and lawyers.

But she'd also like to see spacefaring countries come together and work out a new international agreement on how to work together on handling future crimes in space. "What we don't want is an international space regime that has very different concepts from jurisdiction to jurisdiction," she says. "Hopefully, we can explore space together as a species and have common understandings."

Now That's Interesting Another potentially complicating factor for prosecuting an American for murder in space is that in the U.S., murder typically is charged as a crime under state rather than federal law. Committing murder on a ship or on an aircraft as part of a hijacking are federal crimes.
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:

CSU researchers Yusef Farah and Rachelle Austin with the ultrafast pump-probe transient absorption spectrometer they used to measure charge carrier properties of molybdenum disulfide thin films. Credit: John Eislele/Colorado State University

Solar power technologies, which use solar cells to convert sunlight to electricity or storable fuels, are gaining momentum in a world looking beyond fossil fuels for its energy needs.

The dark bluish solar panels that dot rooftops and open fields today are typically made from silicon, a well-tested semiconductor material. Silicon photovoltaic technology has its limitations, though, losing up to 40% of the energy it collects from sunlight in the form of heat waste. Researchers at Colorado State University are studying radical new ways to improve solar power and provide more options for the industry to explore.

CSU chemists are proposing to make solar cells using not silicon, but an abundantly available natural material called molybdenum disulfide. Using a creative combination of photoelectrochemical and spectroscopic techniques, the researchers conducted a series of experiments showing that extremely thin films of molybdenum disulfide display unprecedented charge carrier properties that could someday drastically improve solar technologies.

The experiments were led by chemistry Ph.D. student Rachelle Austin and postdoctoral researcher Yusef Farah. Austin works jointly in the labs of Justin Sambur, associate professor in the Department of Chemistry, and Amber Krummel, associate professor in the same department. Farah is a former Ph.D. student in Krummel's lab. Their work is published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

The collaboration brought together Sambur's expertise in solar energy conversion using nanoscale materials, and Krummel's expertise in ultrafast laser spectroscopy, for understanding how different materials are structured and how they behave. Sambur's lab had become interested in molybdenum sulfide as a possible alternative solar material based on preliminary data on its light absorption capabilities even when only three atoms thick, explained Austin.

That's when they turned to Krummel, whose lab contains a state-of-the-art ultrafast pump-probe transient absorption spectrometer that can very precisely measure the sequential energy states of individual electrons as they are excited with a laser pulse. Experiments using this special instrument can provide snapshots of how charges flow in a system. Austin created a photoelectrochemical cell using a single atomic layer of molybdenum sulfide, and she and Farah used the pump-probe laser to track the cooling of electrons as they moved through the material.

What they found was astoundingly efficient light-to-energy conversion. More importantly, the laser spectroscopy experiments enabled them to show why this efficient conversion was possible.

They found that the material was so good at converting light to energy because its crystal structure allows it to extract and exploit the energy of so-called hot carriers, which are highly energetic electrons that are briefly excited from their ground states when hit with enough visible light. Austin and Farah found that in their photoelectrochemical cell, the energy from these hot carriers was immediately converted into photocurrent, rather than lost as heat. This hot carrier extraction phenomenon is not present in conventional silicon solar cells.

"This work paves the way for knowing how to design reactors that contain these nanoscale materials for efficient and large-scale hydrogen production," Sambur said.

The project was a collaboration with Professor Andres Montoya-Castillo and Dr. Thomas Sayer of University of Colorado Boulder, who contributed theoretical chemistry and computational modeling to help explain and verify the experimental data.

"The discovery required a 'team science' approach that brought together many different types of expertise, in computational, analytical and physical chemistry," Krummel said.

More information: Rachelle Austin et al, Hot carrier extraction from 2D semiconductor photoelectrodes, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (2023). DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2220333120 Journal information: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
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Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

Artificial reefs have been constructed at Borssele 1 & 2 wind farm off the Netherlands coast of Zeeland to boost underwater wildlife. Research by Wageningen Marine Research (WMR) shows that cod can often be found near the artificial reefs and use them as a base. The behavior of lobsters, however, shows a more ambiguous picture.

The researchers call the initial results "promising." Wind farm developer rsted and partner De Rijke Noordzee are also pleased with the new nature development. rsted has installed four artificial reefs in the wind farm based on its ambition to design wind farm Borssele 1 & 2 in a nature-inclusive way.

Ruben Dijkstra, Managing Director of rsted Benelux, said, "It is important that offshore wind energy and ecology go hand in hand. rsted sets up innovative biodiversity projects worldwide to test, gain experience and learn. This contributes to realizing our ambition to build offshore wind farms that have a net positive impact on biodiversity. It is great to see that the results of our biodiversity project in the Borssele 1 & 2 wind farm are promising. These results are public and we are sharing them with the scientific community."

Through transmitter surveys, WMR researchers study the behavior of cod and lobster underwater. Both species prefer hard substrate such as artificial reefs in their immediate habitat. "We want to know what role these artificial reefs play for our target species of cod and European lobster. That way, we can eventually advise on how to optimize these boosts for local biodiversity," said Benoit Berges and Marcel Rozemeijer of Wageningen Marine Research.

Cod as key species

Researchers chose to study the behavior of Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) because cod is a key species in the functioning of the local ecosystem. If cod are doing well, it is an indication that the reefs are also suitable habitat for other species of fish, marine and benthic life.

In July 2021, 45 Atlantic cod were fitted with acoustic transmitters ("tags") to track their movements. In May 2022, the acoustic transmitters were retrieved and the data collected, after which the transmitters were redeployed. The data collected provides GPS coordinates through time. This revealed the effect of the four artificial reefs: Atlantic cod are attracted to the reef and like to stay in its vicinity.

Lobster makes high demands

On behalf of De Rijke Noordzee, 12 European lobsters (Homarus gammarus) were also fitted with a transmitter and then released. Most lobsters had left within a day. A few used a reef and its immediate surroundings for a few days, but then migrated further. Researcher Marcel Rozemeijer explained why: "Lobsters make high demands on their environment. They have a strong preference for good burrows to hide in. In addition, they need a lot of food, which also puts a number of demands on the environment."

It was noteworthy, however, that the lobsters were clearly walking slower on and around the reefs. "They were possibly foraging. When they move on over the open sand again, they walk much faster," said Rozemeijer.

The batteries of the transmitters lasted about a year. Moreover, lobsters molt regularly. Therefore, in May 2022, another 19 locally caught cod were tagged, and 12 new lobsters were tagged and released. These new data were extracted in early 2023 and are currently being analyzed. The study will run until the end of 2023.
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Chinook salmon. Credit: Barrie Kovish/ Wild Salmon Center

A study published today in Fish & Fisheries offers a comprehensive look at the state of North American wild Chinook salmon. Its findings hold new insights for fisheries managers looking to address wide-ranging declines among Chinook stocks.

The study, led by Wild Salmon Center Watershed Scientist Dr. Will Atlas with a team of leading salmon researchers from NOAA Fisheries, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, and Simon Fraser University, analyzed abundance trends for more than 80 Chinook populations extending from California's Sacramento River north to the Fraser River in Canada.

Analyzing time series data, the team found that more than 70 percent (57 of 81) of studied populations have experienced declining abundance in the last 50 years. But these trends also varied across the region: a signal that the species' diverse strategies for migration and spawningalso known as life historiesare aiding their success in some rivers.

Taking a close look at these strategies, the team found a strong link between Chinook abundance trends and time spent in relatively cold freshwater and marine habitats. The life histories of Chinook stocks can vary widely even within the same river system. A key example of intraspecies diversity is run timing: whether a population returns to freshwater in spring, summer, or fall.

"While most populations declined, some increased in abundance," Dr. Atlas says. "Chinook populations are stable and even recovering in certain systems. Our research indicates that Chinook life history diversity has been key to the ability of some runs to thrive in the face of climate change."

Particularly notable declines occurred in California Chinook populationsincluding most Sacramento and Klamath river stocks analyzed by the teamas well as interior spring Chinook returning to the Fraser, Columbia, and Snake River watersheds. Southern and interior stocks have been heavily impacted by climate disturbances in recent years, suffering through both lower, hotter flows in their natal river systems as well as warmer conditions in areas of the North Pacific where they spend the ocean portion of their life cycle.

However, the team also found that in recent decades, some fall and summer Chinook populations, including those in the Fraser and Columbia, have increased in abundance. These fall and summer stocks travel north along the continental shelf to areas west of Northern British Columbia and Southeast Alaska where marine waters have been slower to warm.

Some spring Chinook populations also remain strong in watersheds where cold water is reliably accessibleas well as in other systems where habitat restoration, dam removal, and fish passage improvements are protecting and enhancing access to intact habitats.

An example is the relative abundance of wild spring Chinook in Butte Creek, a tributary of California's Sacramento River that has benefited from flow augmentation and extensive ecosystem restoration. In Oregon's Clackamas and Sandy Rivers, spring Chinook have also made a remarkable recovery following dam removals and other fish passage corrections.

Map depicting regional groupings, specific population locations, run timing, and dominant juvenile life history for each of the 81 Chinook populations including in analysis. Credit: Wild Salmon Center

"This study strongly supports the case for maintaining a diverse portfolio of wild Chinook runs across the region," says Dr. Matt Sloat, WSC Science Director and a co-author on the paper. "As environmental conditions get tougher, it's increasingly important that we understand and maintain the different survival strategies that Chinook have honed over millions of years."

The study's publication follows an unprecedented ocean Chinook fishing closure by the Pacific Fishery Management Council, running through spring 2024 and extending from California's southern border to Oregon's North Coast. The council moved to curtail fishing in anticipation of near-record low return rates for Klamath and Sacramento fall-run Chinook. (The latter stock was not specifically analyzed by the research team.)

According to study co-author Dr. Nate Mantua, research scientist at NOAA Fisheries Northwest Fisheries Science Center, the study's findings show the direct connection between unreliable fisheries and the many ways that humans have made it increasingly difficult for wild Chinook to survive all the way through their life cycle.

"Salmon are naturally resilient, but we've curtailed river flows, cut off much of their spawning grounds with dams, reduced the wetlands where juveniles grow on their way to the ocean, and further simplified their populations through hatchery and harvest practices," Dr. Mantua says. "These changes have reduced the capacity of wild Chinook to respond to climate impacts in their freshwater, estuary, and ocean habitats. As a result, they careen between booms and busts."

The authors note that a range of habitat protection and restoration actions are underway to improve habitat and flow protections for salmon. This year, the largest dam removal in U.S. history is set to begin on the upper Klamath River, reopening a vast area of historical Chinook habitat. The NOAA Restoration Center is heavily investing in Pacific Northwest salmon habitat restoration, including reconnecting floodplains and recruiting beavers back to rivers.

In Oregon, following improvements to the state's private forestry practices, agencies are now contemplating a comprehensive habitat conservation plan for more than 600,000 acres of state forestland to benefit salmon and other species. And in recent years, multiple studies from federal, Tribal, and state agencies have recommended the removal of four dams on the lower Snake River.

"Chinook are vitally important to Indigenous cultures, fisheries, and the health of the environment in the Pacific Northwest," says study co-author Charles Parken, salmon habitat assessment biologist at Fisheries and Oceans Canada. "This study should prove foundational for communities looking to further accelerate the salmon ecosystem restoration work so critical to ensuring that this species rebuilds across its range."

But Dr. Atlas also notes that reforms will need to extend beyond habitat to fisheries management. Mixed-stock ocean fisheries pose conservation risks to weak stocks, and low abundance of some populations can close entire fishing regions, limiting opportunities for fishers to catch more abundant overlapping stocks. He cites this year's California and Oregon closuresdriven by Klamath and Sacramento stocksas cases in point.

According to Dr. Atlas, one responsive move would be a shift toward terminal and selective fisheries, which harvest salmon from known populations, minimizing impacts on non-target populations and species. With terminal and selective fisheries, he says, management regimes can more nimbly adjust fishing opportunities to target healthy stocks, while reducing impacts on at-risk or endangered populations.

"That's one example of the climate-smart paradigm that we must begin to move into," Dr. Atlas says. "When combined with the trends evidenced in our study, the recent closures show that the current system isn't the resilient approach we needboth for fishing communities and for long-term maintenance of salmon biodiversity."

More information: William I. Atlas et al, Trends in Chinook salmon spawner abundance and total run size highlight linkages between life history, geography and decline, Fish and Fisheries (2023). DOI: 10.1111/faf.12750 Journal information: Fish and Fisheries

Provided by Wild Salmon Center
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Isaiah Bolden holding a freshly collected core from a coral in Curacao this past February. Credit: Georgia Tech

Coral reefs are more than just a vital part of the ocean. They can also reveal clues about the past. Analyzing coral skeletons can paint a rich picture of the environmental history of an ecosystem, from temperature variability to land-use changes.

On the U.S. Virgin Island of St. Croix, the ruins of a Danish sugar plantation built from harvested coral bricks could be the key to understanding how and why the area was decimated by the 18th-century transatlantic slave trade.

Researchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) will travel to St. Croix to analyze this coral. They hope to determine how coral mining, dredging, and reef erosion affected near-shore biodiversity, contemporary coral populations, and bathymetry or underwater depth. The project uniquely combines archeology and oceanography.

"We can survey these corals to try and reconstruct the climate around St. Croix before, during, and after the slave tradeparticularly with regard to sea surface temperature and trade wind strength," said Isaiah Bolden, a co-principal investigator and assistant professor in the School of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences at Georgia Tech. "This could give us an interesting, climatically informed perspective on the timing of the transatlantic slave trade and why and how St. Croix became a part of this history."

The coral codex

The first phases of the project involve collecting coral. Justin Dunnavant, co-PI, National Geographic Explorer, and assistant professor of archeology at UCLA, will use 3D photogrammetry, the process of combining photographs at different angles to create a 3D rendering, to determine which coral species were used in plantation construction. Then the researchers will collect live and historic coral samples with minimally invasive techniques so Bolden can analyze their composition.

Coral skeletons are a rich source of historical data. Like trees, living coral grows in annual rings and can be dated by counting these rings. For the dating of ancient samples, the team is also applying uranium-thorium dating, a type of radiometric dating that relies on a natural "clock" that forms as radioactive uranium locked inside of coral skeletons naturally decays into thorium.

Determining the ages of the plantation structures will help reveal whether the coral was harvested from the sea floor alive or if these buildings were constructed from pre-existing coral rubble. Additional analyses can uncover clues of how the ecosystem has responded to direct human impacts from the 18th century to present. To this end, the project will also sequence proteins trapped in the skeletons of fossilized and contemporary corals on St. Croix to investigate genetic differences.

The coral skeletons can reveal more than age and genetic differences, though. Mineral "impurities" that get substituted into the growth bands of the limestone-like calcium carbonate skeleton of corals can be measured and used to infer sea surface temperature, salinity, pH, runoff, and many other environmental conditions during a coral's lifetime.

"Corals try to build a pristine skeleton made of calcium and carbonate ions," Bolden said. "The problem is seawater isn't just a pure mixture of those two components, so some of this other stuff gets in the way. For example, the element strontium, which has a similar chemical behavior to calcium, is incorporated into the skeleton at a faster rate during cooler temperatures than warmer temperatures. This means we can use the ratio of strontium-to-calcium across growth bands in the coral skeleton as a clue toward past temperatures."

Making these measurements involves drilling and dissolving powders from the coral growth bands and then using a mass spectrometer to analyze the chemical composition of the powders. The data, in turn, can be combined with instrumental records from the modern era to develop equations that translate the chemical changes into environmental changes.

"This is a really cool opportunity to study how local reefs have recorded and responded to climatic and anthropogenic changes during a definingly dark period of colonization and human civilization," Bolden said. "How can we interface these new ecological and climate records with the written historical record to further detail the story of colonization and the slave trade in St. Croix?"

The St. Croix ecosystem, then and now

The researchers will also collect contemporary data to build a better understanding of St. Croix's existing modern coral reef ecosystems. They will collect and analyze seawater samples and conduct coral species and coverage surveys to capture current seasonal conditions and trends in reef health.

Throughout the project, the researchers will collaborate with local St. Croix universities and high schools to ensure the research isn't just about the community, but also benefits it by giving students research opportunities.

"I'm really interested in this opportunity to bring a climate context to the history often taught in schools to discover things we haven't learned," Bolden said. "We're talking about decolonizing geoscience and unearthing the stories that haven't been told."
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Difficulties in telling the Kentish plover (left) apart from the Hanuman plover (right) have meant that the status of the species has changed a number of times. Credit: Left image Zeynel Cebeci, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons and right image Image Avian Sciences & Conservation

The Hanuman plover, named after a Hindu god, has been reinstated almost a century after being relegated to a subspecies. It is hoped that resurrecting the species will focus conservation attention on at-risk habitats.

In the 1930s, the Hanuman plover, Charadrius seebohmi, was merged with the Kentish plover as both species were considered to be the same. The advent of DNA sequencing has now allowed scientists to confirm subtle differences between the groups that are enough to split them apart once again.

The researchers hope that by resurrecting the species, which lives in Sri Lanka and southern India, conservation funding will be used to help protect the area's threatened wetlands. These habitats are highly biodiverse and provide important overwintering sites for migrating birds.

Dr. Alex Bond, who co-authored the study and is Principal Curator and Curator in Charge of Birds at the Museum, says, "While we don't know if the Hanuman plover is threatened at the moment, it lives in an area which has one of the highest human population densities on the planet."

"Having a name attached to these birds means it is easier for policymakers and politicians to notice these plovers and take any steps needed to help them."

The findings of the study were published in the journal Ibis.

The problem with plovers

Plovers are a family of shorebirds that live all over the world, except for the very poles. They feed on invertebrates, but otherwise have a range of different habitats and lifestyles.

One of the most widely distributed species is the Kentish plover, which despite its title no longer lives in the English county which gives it its name. At one point, the species was thought to inhabit an area stretching across several continents from South America across to Europe and southeast Asia.

While populations in different parts of the world were split into different subspecies, they were all considered closely related enough that they all kept the scientific name Charadrius alexandrinus.

"The Kentish plover reflects a general trend of lumping different taxa together, particularly in birds, in the mid to late twentieth century," Alex explains. "In the past 20 years the move has been to split these up as we've recognized that what was thought to be one species can actually be several different ones."

One of the largest changes came in 2009, when a paper comparing Kentish plovers living in Europe and Asia to those in the Americas was released. Genetic comparisons of the two groups revealed that their populations were more different from one another than between some other plover species.

This led to the snowy plover being resurrected, sparking investigations of other birds that could have the potential to become species in their own right. One promising candidate was another subspecies of the Kentish plover, known as C. a. seebohmi.

How was the Hanuman plover resurrected?

To assess whether the Hanuman plover was more than a subspecies, the researchers took measurements and samples from wild birds, as well as specimens held in the world's museums.

They found that these birds tended to have smaller wings, tails and beaks than the Kentish plover, as well as different plumage. While the Kentish plover tends to have black legs in both sexes, the Hanuman plover has dark gray legs, while males have a black stripe across their forehead that C. alexandrinus doesn't.

Observations of wild birds also showed that Hanuman plover molt differently than the Kentish plover. The Asian birds molt much earlier in the year, and molt different feathers before the breeding season, than their relative.

Even stronger evidence that these birds were two different species was found in their genetics, which suggested they had split apart around 1.2 million years ago. At the time, levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere were decreasing, which caused changes in the timing of Ice Ages.

The researchers suggest that this event, known as the Mid-Pleistocene Transition, might have been responsible for causing the two species to diverge as a result of the environmental impacts it caused, such as sea level changes.

Collectively, the evidence was enough for the team to say that the species should be resurrected.

"Over a century ago these birds were considered to be their own species, so it's not that these plovers have changed," Alex says. "Instead, it's our understanding of what a species is, and how much variation is suitable to differentiate one, that is different."

"It's this, along with the advent of genetic techniques, that have allowed us to tease these two species apart."

While the Latin name of the restored species was decided by scientific naming rules, the researchers were able to pick a new common name. They chose to name the species after the Hindu god Hanuman, who according to legend built a bridge between southern India and Sri Lanka.

Future research could help to reveal more about this enigmatic plover now it has been identified as a species in its own right.

More information: Jude Janitha Niroshan et al, Systematic revision of the 'diminutive' Kentish Plover (Charadriidae: Charadrius ) with the resurrection of Charadrius seebohmi based on phenotypic and genetic analyses, Ibis (2023). DOI: 10.1111/ibi.13220

This story is republished courtesy of Natural History Museum. Read the original story here
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Graphical abstract. Credit: Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Gene Regulatory Mechanisms (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2023.194909

The protein PKMzeta is known to be associated with long-term memory formation. Neurological disorders such Alzheimer's disease, as well as depression and aging, correlate with reduced levels of this protein in the brain. Researchers affiliated with institutions in Brazil and the United States have now discovered a mechanism that helps explain the link and could pave the way to future medical innovations. Their study is reported in article published in the journal Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA)Gene Regulatory Mechanisms.

To understand the mechanism, the researchers used epigenetics, the science of how environmental stimuli activate or inhibit gene expression without altering the DNA sequence. An epigenetic technique often used by researchers is gene silencing by DNA methylation, in which methyl groups are added to a specific section of a gene to prevent its transcription. For example, methylation of the DNA sequence of a gene may turn the gene off so it does not make a protein.

In the article, the authors recall that in the central nervous system the protein CREB1 normally binds to a section of the gene PKMzeta so that it expresses the protein of the same name. The study showed, however, that hypermethylation of this piece of the gene resulted in significantly lower levels of the protein PKMzeta.

"Our analysis revealed that DNA methylation regulates expression of this gene, which plays a role in several pathologies," said Deborah Schechtman, last author of the article and a professor at the University of Sao Paulo's Institute of Chemistry (IQ-USP) in Brazil. "I believe that when basic science is well done it provides vital information for drug development and advanced therapies."

Inside DNA

Dimitrius Pramio, first author of the article and a Ph.D. candidate in biochemistry at IQ-USP, described the materials used in the study, some of which were obtained thanks to partnerships with Yale University and SUNY Upstate Medical University in the US. "The materials included databases, human cells isolated from patients or modified in the laboratory, and animal cells," he said.

Several tests were conducted to see if methylation of the gene PKMzeta would lead to a drop in levels of the protein it produces, using drugs that interfere in DNA methylation and the gene-editing technique CRISPR. In this case, alterations made to the gene PKMzeta prevented proper binding of the protein CREB1. "Production of the protein PKMzeta did indeed fall as a result," Schechtman said.

The results confirmed that the gene in question requires CREB1 to trigger production of the protein PKMzeta and that DNA methylation explains the drop in levels of the protein.

The authors also analyzed the role of other genes in the central nervous system to see if they were inhibited by this process of DNA hypermethylation that prevented CREB1 binding. "We wanted to find out whether the process occurred more globally," Schechtman said.

If the expression of other genes besides PKMzeta is affected by this pattern of DNA methylation, it must be particularly relevant to brain alterations possibly associated with pathologies, and the authors showed that the mechanism is not confined to the protein PKMzeta.

Next steps

Several ways forward from this study suggested themselves. One would be to analyze other genes affected by this process of DNA methylation that inhibits CREB1 binding, with the aim of seeing what role they play in the organism, as well as their possible association with diseases.

Another possibility would be to try to understand what the protein PKMzeta actually does in the central nervous system. "We know it's involved in memory, but how does this work in detail? That's a relevant question," Schechtman said.

For Pramio, it is also important to test the mechanism in more precise models. For example, specific brain regions could be analyzed, as could animal models of diseases such as Alzheimer's and depression. "Other studies have shown that the use of certain antidepressants in animal models of depression restores expression of the gene PKMzeta when it's inhibited, but they didn't investigate DNA methylation," he said.

Other conditions could also be examined. Schechtman, for example, is working on chronic pain, and there is a possibility that the gene PKMzeta could be involved in such conditions owing to its participation in synaptic remodeling of neurons. "Many questions and hypotheses have been raised by the study," she said.

According to Pramio, progress in these research lines could contribute in future to the development of new treatments, which would be particularly important for depression and Alzheimer's, given the challenges posed to physicians by these disorders.

More information: Dimitrius Tansini Pramio et al, DNA methylation of the promoter region at the CREB1 binding site is a mechanism for the epigenetic regulation of brain-specific PKM, Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA)Gene Regulatory Mechanisms (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2023.194909

Provided by FAPESP
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Credit: NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center

Now in its fifth year in space, NASA's TESS (Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite) remains a rousing success. TESS's cameras have mapped more than 93% of the entire sky, discovered 329 new worlds and thousands more candidates, and provided new insights into a wide array of cosmic phenomena, from stellar pulsations and exploding stars to supermassive black holes.

Using its four cameras, TESS monitors large swaths of the sky called sectors for about a month at a time. Each sector measures 24 by 96 degrees, about as wide as a person's hand at arm's length and stretching from the horizon to the zenith. The cameras capture a total of 192 million pixels in each full-frame image. During its primary mission, TESS captured one of these images every 30 minutes, but this torrent of data has increased with time. The cameras now record each sector every 200 seconds.

"The volume of high-quality TESS data now available is quite impressive," said Knicole Colon, the mission's project scientist at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland. "We have more than 251 terabytes just for one of the main data products, called full-frame images. That's the equivalent of streaming 167,000 movies in full HD."

"TESS extracts parts of each full-frame image to make cutouts around specific cosmic objectsmore than 467,000 of them at the momentand together they create a detailed record of changing brightness for each one," said Christina Hedges, lead for the TESS General Investigator Office and a research scientist at both the University of Maryland, Baltimore County and Goddard. "We use these files to produce light curves, a product that graphically shows how a source's brightness alters over time."

To find exoplanets, or worlds beyond our solar system, TESS looks for the telltale dimming of a star caused when an orbiting planet passes in front of it. But stars also change brightness for other reasons: exploding as supernovae, erupting in sudden flares, dark star spots on their rotating surfaces, and even slight changes due to oscillations driven by internal sound waves. The rapid, regular observations from TESS enable more detailed study of these phenomena. This mosaic combines more than 900 images from all 24-by-90-degree sectors surveyed by NASA's TESS (Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite) through October 2022. The mosaic covers 93% of the sky and builds up in chronological order, illustrating the mission's progress over the past five years. A prominent feature in the mosaic is the Milky Way, a glowing U-shaped band that represents the bright central plane of our galaxy. Credit: NASA/MIT/TESS and Ethan Kruse (University of Maryland College Park)

Some stars give TESS a trifecta of brightness-changing behavior. One example is AU Microscopii, thought to be about 25 million years olda rowdy youngster less than 1% the age of our Sun. Spotted regions on AU Mic's surface grow and shrink, and the star's rotation carries them into and out of sight. The stormy star also erupts with frequent flares. With all this going on, TESS, with the help of NASA's now-retired Spitzer Space Telescope, discovered a planet about four times Earth's size orbiting the star every 8.5 days. Then, in 2022, scientists announced that TESS data revealed the presence of another, smaller world, one almost three times Earth's size and orbiting every 18.9 days. These discoveries have made the system a touchstone for understanding how stars and planets form and evolve.

Here are a few more of the mission's greatest hits:

TESS has observed hundreds of supernovae and thousands of other candidate transient, or short-lived, events so far.

TOI 700 d was the first planet TESS found that orbits within its star's habitable zone. That's the range of orbital distances where liquid water potentially could exist on the planet's surface. In January, astronomers announced this Earth-sized world was joined by another, TOI 700 e, that also orbits in the star's habitable or "Goldilocks" zone.

The active galaxy ESO 253-3 hosts a 78-million-solar-mass black hole that flares up every 114 days, the first supermassive black hole shown to flare regularly. To understand why, astronomers combined ground-based observations of the flares with data from TESS, NASA's Swift and NuSTAR telescopes, and the XMM-Newton satellite operated by ESA (the European Space Agency). The most likely answer, they say, is that a giant star skims close enough to the monster black hole once each orbit that the black hole's gravity strips away some stellar gas. This material falls inward, creating a flare when it strikes the vast disk of gas surrounding the black hole.

TESS discovered a trio of hot worlds larger than Earth orbiting a much younger version of our Sun called TOI 451, located about 400 light-years away. The system was found in a newly discovered "river" of stars called the Pisces-Eridanus stream, which stretches across one-third of the sky. TESS showed that many of the stars revealed had star spots and rotated rapidlyclear evidence the stream was only 120 million years old, or one-eighth the age of previous estimates.

New discoveries are waiting to be made within the huge volume of data TESS has already captured. This is a library of observations astronomers will explore for years, but there's much more to come.

"We're celebrating TESS's fifth anniversary at workand wishing it many happy returns," Colon said.
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Credit: Antiquity (2023). DOI: 10.15184/aqy.2023.13

Archaeologists have used wood taxa analysis to distinguish between imported, drift and native wood from five Norse farmsteads on Greenland.

Historical records have long suggested that medieval Norse colonists on Greenland (AD 9851450) relied on imported material such as iron and wood. Until now, it has not been fully recognized where these imports of wood came from.

To study timber origins and distribution on Greenland, Lisabet Gumundsdottir from the University of Iceland examined the wood assemblages from five Norse sites in western Greenland, of which four were medium sized farms and one a high-status episcopal manor. All sites were occupied between AD 1000 and 1400 and dated by radiocarbon dating and associated artifact types.

A microscopic examination of the cellular structure of the wood previously found by archaeologists on these sites enabled the identification of tree genus or species, and the results were published in the journal Antiquity.

The results show that just 0.27% of the wood examined were unambiguous imports, including oak, beech, hemlock and Jack pine. Another 25% of the total wood studied could be either imported or driftwood, including larch, spruce, Scots pine and fir.

Credit: Antiquity (2023). DOI: 10.15184/aqy.2023.13

Because hemlock and Jack pine were not present in Northern Europe during the early second millennium AD, the pieces identified from the medieval contexts in Greenland must have come from North America.

This confirms the historical sources, that the Norse did acquire wood from the east coast of North America. The sagas indicate that the explorers Leifurheppni, orleifurkarlsefni and Freydisall brought back timber from Vinland to Greenland.

In addition to the possibility of import, driftwood was one of the most important raw materials in Norse Greenland, making up over 50% of the combined assemblage.

Wood also came from Europe, likely including the oak, beech and Scots pine from this assemblage. Some may have come as ready-made artifacts, such as barrel staves, while reused ship timber could have been brought to use in buildings on Greenland.

More information: Lisabet Gumundsdottir, Timber imports to Norse Greenland: lifeline or luxury?, Antiquity (2023). DOI: 10.15184/aqy.2023.13 Journal information: Antiquity

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Phase diagram of Mott insulators as function of frustration and correlation strength. Credit: Nature Communications (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37491-z

For two decades, it was believed that a possible quantum spin liquid was discovered in a synthetically produced material. In this case, it would not follow the laws of classical physics even on a macroscopic level, but rather those of the quantum world. There is great hope in these materials: they would be suitable for applications in quantum entangled information transmission (quantum cryptography) or even quantum computation.

Now, however, researchers from TU Wien and Toho University in Japan have shown that the promising material, -(BEDT-TTF) 2 Cu 2 (CN) 3 , is not the predicted quantum spin liquid, but a material that can be described using known concepts.

In their recent publication in the journal Nature Communications, the researchers report how they investigated the mysterious quantum state by measuring the electrical resistance in -(BEDT-TTF) 2 Cu 2 (CN) 3 as a function of temperature and pressure. In 2021, Andrej Pustogow from the Institute of Solid State Physics at TU Wien has already investigated the magnetic properties of this material.

Phase diagrams illustrate material properties

"Phase diagrams are the language of physics," says Pustogow, leading author of the current study. If you understand this language, a quick glance at the diagram shows how the properties of a material change depending on temperature and pressure. Water, for example, becomes solid at a temperature of 0C and gaseous at 100C. If you now change the pressure, for example by heating water in a pressure cooker, the boiling point increases to over 100C.

In order to now find out how the supposed quantum spin liquidi.e., a liquid in which the spins of the electrons can rotate freely and are quantum entangledbehaves under pressure, the research team carried out systematic resistance measurements. "The special thing is that the very shape of the phase boundary gives deep insights into the physics of magnetic quantum fluctuations, which actually can't be measured with electrical resistance per se," says Pustogow. This was only made possible by a method that is unique worldwide, which the Japanese partners used to study the material. "So we make the impossible possible and follow the entropy footprints of the magnetic moments and thus gain new insights into a supposed quantum spin fluid," continues Pustogow.

Prof. Andrej Pustogow. Credit: Vienna University of Technology

Disorder as a key

The researchers also found that the phase diagram of -(BEDT-TTF) 2 Cu 2 (CN) 3 strongly resembles that of helium-3. Already back in the 1950s a Soviet researcher predicted that helium-3 behaves differently from conventional materials, turning from solid to liquid rather than from liquid to solid at low temperatures (of less than 0.3 Kelvin). Exactly the same effect occurs with electrons in solids when they freeze upon increasing temperature from a metallic state (mobile electrons) to a Mott insulator, in which the electrons are firmly bound to the atom and do not move.

This "Pomeranchuk effect," named after the researcher who predicted it, was also observed by the international research team in -(BEDT-TTF) 2 Cu 2 (CN) 3 : At higher temperatures, the material initially shows insulating behavior with rigid electrons that melt into a liquid (metal) when it cools. Below 6 Kelvin, however, the electrons freeze again and lose their magnetic moments as well.

"Although -(BEDT-TTF) 2 Cu 2 (CN) 3 itself is not a quantum spin liquid, our research provides important clues for further research into these materials. For example, our experiments help to better understand the mechanism of magnetoelastic coupling. If we succeed in controlling this effect, we may also be able to eventually realize a quantum spin liquid," Pustogow says.

More information: A. Pustogow et al, Chasing the spin gap through the phase diagram of a frustrated Mott insulator, Nature Communications (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37491-z Journal information: Nature Communications
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Temperature-driven formation of supersolidity. Heating a dipolar quantum fluid can lead to the emergence of a supersolid phase of matter, as illustrated schematically in c. Credit: Nature Communications (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37207-3

Solids can be melted by heating, but in the quantum world it can also be the other way around: In a joint effort, an experimental team led by Francesca Ferlaino in Innsbruck, Austria, and a theoretical team led by Thomas Pohl in Aarhus, Denmark, show how a quantum liquid forms supersolid structures through heating. The scientists obtained a first phase diagram for a supersolid at finite temperature.

Supersolids are a relatively new and exciting area of research. They exhibit both solid and superfluid properties simultaneously. In 2019, three research groups were able to demonstrate this state for the first time beyond doubt in ultracold quantum gases, among them the research group led by Francesca Ferlaino from the Department of Experimental Physics at the University of Innsbruck and the OAW Institute for Quantum Optics and Quantum Information (IQOQI) in Innsbruck.

In 2021, Francesca Ferlaino's team studied in detail the life cycle of supersolid states in a dipolar gas of dysprosium atoms. They observed something unexpected: "Our data suggested that an increase in temperature promotes the formation of supersolid structures," recounts Claudia Politi of Francesca Ferlaino's team. "This surprising behavior was an important boost to theory, which had previously paid little attention to thermal fluctuations in this context."

The Innsbruck scientists joined forces with the Danish theoretical group led by Thomas Pohl to explore the effect of thermal fluctuation. They developed and published in Nature Communications a theoretical model that can explain the experimental results and underlines the thesis that heating the quantum liquid can lead to the formation of a quantum crystal. The theoretical model shows that as the temperature rises, these structures can form more easily.

"With the new model, we now have a phase diagram for the first time that shows the formation of a supersolid state as a function of temperature," Francesca Ferlaino says. "The surprising behavior, which contradicts our everyday observation, arises from the anisotropic nature of the dipole-dipole interaction of the strongly magnetic atoms of dysprosium."

More information: J. Sanchez-Baena et al, Heating a dipolar quantum fluid into a solid, Nature Communications (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37207-3 Journal information: Nature Communications
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Cyril Koller, CEO of auction house Koller, stands next to the head of the skeleton of a Tyrannosaurus rex named Trinity, during an auction in Zurich, Switzerland on Tuesday, April 18, 2023. The 293 T. rex bones were assembled into a growling posture that measures 11.6 meters long (38 feet long) and 3.9 meters high (12.8 feet high. The skeleton is expected to fetch 5 million to 8 million Swiss francs ($5.6-$8.9 million). Credit: Michael Buholzer/Keystone via AP

Nearly 300 Tyrannosaurus rex bones that were dug up from three sites in the United States and assembled into a single skeleton sold Tuesday at an auction in Switzerland for 4.8 million francs ($5.3 million), below the expected price.

Crafted into an open-mouth pose, the T. rex skeleton measuring 11.6 meters long (38 feet long) and 3.9 meters high (12.8 feet) high came in under the anticipated range of 5 million to 8 million francs when it went under the hammer at the Koller auction house in Zurich.

Koller had said Tuesday's sale would be the first time such a T. rex skeleton would go up for auction in Europe. The composite skeleton, featuring 293 bones, was a showpiece of an auction that featured some 70 lots, and the skull was set up next to the auctioneer's podium throughout.

"It could be that it was a compositethat could be why the purists didn't go for it," Karl Green, the auction house's marketing director, said by phone. "It's a fair price for the dino. I hope it's going to be shown somewhere in public."

Green did not identify the buyer, but said it was a "European private collector." Including the "buyer's premium" and fees, the sale came to 5.5 million Swiss francs (about $6.1 million), Koller said.

Promoters said the composite T. rex, dubbed "Trinity," was built from specimens retrieved from three sites in the Hell Creek and Lance Creek formations of Montana and Wyoming between 2008 and 2013.

The head of the skeleton of a Tyrannosaurus rex named Trinity, is seen during an auction in Zurich, Switzerland on Tuesday, April 18, 2023. The 293 T. rex bones were assembled into a growling posture that measures 11.6 meters long (38 feet long) and 3.9 meters high (12.8 feet high. The skeleton is expected to fetch 5 million to 8 million Swiss francs ($5.6-$8.9 million). Credit: Michael Buholzer/Keystone via AP

Koller said "original bone material" comprised more than half of the restored skeleton. The auction house said the skull was particularly rare and also remarkably well-preserved.

"When dinosaurs died in the Jurassic or Cretaceous periods, they often lost their heads during deposition (of the remains into rocks). In fact, most dinosaurs are found without their skulls," said Nils Knoetschke, a scientific adviser who was quoted in the auction catalog. "But here we have truly original Tyrannosaurus skull bones that all originate from the same specimen."

T. rex roamed the Earth between 65 million and 67 million years ago. A study published two years ago in the journal Science estimated that about 2.5 billion of the dinosaurs ever lived. Hollywood movies such as the blockbuster "Jurassic Park" franchise have added to the public fascination with the carnivorous creature.

Cyril Koller, CEO of auction house Koller, stands next to the head of the skeleton of a Tyrannosaurus rex named Trinity, during an auction in Zurich, Switzerland on Tuesday, April 18, 2023. The 293 T. rex bones were assembled into a growling posture that measures 11.6 meters long (38 feet long) and 3.9 meters high (12.8 feet high. The skeleton is expected to fetch 5 million to 8 million Swiss francs ($5.6-$8.9 million). Credit: Michael Buholzer/Keystone via AP

A model of a dinosaur is seen during an auction of auction house Koller, for the skeleton of a Tyrannosaurus rex named Trinity, in Zurich, Switzerland on Tuesday, April 18, 2023. The 293 T. rex bones were assembled into a growling posture that measures 11.6 meters long (38 feet long) and 3.9 meters high (12.8 feet high. The skeleton is expected to fetch 5 million to 8 million Swiss francs ($5.6-$8.9 million). Credit: Michael Buholzer/Keystone via AP

A view of the skeleton of a Tyrannosaurus rex named Trinity, during a preview by auction house Koller at the Tonhalle Zurich concert hall, on Wednesday, March 29, 2023 in Zurich, Switzerland. A giant T. Rex skeleton thats been dug up from three sites in the United States is going up for auction in Zurich on Tuesday, April 18, 2023 a first sale of its kind in Europe. Credit: Michael Buholzer/Keystone via AP, File

Cyril Koller, CEO of auction house Koller, stands next to the head of the skeleton of a Tyrannosaurus rex named Trinity, during an auction in Zurich, Switzerland on Tuesday, April 18, 2023. The 293 T. rex bones were assembled into a growling posture that measures 11.6 meters long (38 feet long) and 3.9 meters high (12.8 feet high. The skeleton is expected to fetch 5 million to 8 million Swiss francs ($5.6-$8.9 million). Credit: Michael Buholzer/Keystone via AP

The two areas the bones for Trinity came from were also the source of other T. rex skeletons that were auctioned off, according to Koller: Chicago's Field Museum of Natural History bought "Sue" for $8.4 million over a quarter-century ago, and "Stan" sold for nearly $32 million three years ago.

Two years ago, a triceratops skeleton that the Guinness World Records declared as the world's biggest, known as "Big John," was sold for 6.6 million euros ($7.2 million) to a private collector at a Paris auction.

 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
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In this photo provided by Todd Salat, northern light enthusiasts got a surprise early April 15, 2023, when something odd was mixed in with the green bands of light dancing above the Donnelly Dome near Delta Junction, Alaska. A light baby blue spiral resembling a galaxy appeared amid the aurora for a few minutes. The spiral was formed when excess fuel that had been released from a SpaceX rocket that launched from California about three hours earlier turned to ice, and then the water vapor reflected the sunlight in the upper atmosphere. Credit: Todd Salat via AP

Northern lights enthusiasts got a surprise mixed in with the green bands of light dancing in the Alaska skies: A light baby blue spiral resembling a galaxy appeared amid the aurora for a few minutes.

The cause early Saturday morning was a little more mundane than an alien invasion or the appearance of a portal to the far reaches of the universe. It was simply excess fuel released from a SpaceX rocket that launched from California about three hours earlier.

Sometimes rockets have fuel that needs to be jettisoned, said space physicist Don Hampton, a research associate professor at the University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute.

"When they do that at high altitudes, that fuel turns into ice," he said. "And if it happens to be in the sunlight, when you're in the darkness on the ground, you can see it as a sort of big cloud, and sometimes it's swirly."

While not a common sight, Hampton said he's seen such occurrences about three times.

The appearance of the swirl was caught in time-lapse on the Geophysical Institute's all-sky camera and shared widely. "It created a bit of an internet storm with that spiral," Hampton said.

Photographers out for the northern lights show also posted their photos on social media.

In this photo provided by Christopher Hayden, a light baby blue spiral resembling a galaxy appears amid the aurora for a few minutes in the Alaska skies near Fairbanks, Saturday, April 15, 2023. The spiral was formed when excess fuel that had been released from a SpaceX rocket that launched from California about three hours earlier turned to ice, and then the water vapor reflected the sunlight in the upper atmosphere. Credit: Christopher Hayden via AP

"This all happened as it passed over Alaska during a beautiful aurora display, stunning many night-watchers including myself," professional photographer Todd Salat, known for stunning aurora images, told The Associated Press in an email.

"Trust me, at first, I was totally bewildered," he said. "I now know it can be explained with rocket science, but during and immediately after the experience, I thoroughly enjoyed the mysterious feeling of the unknown."

The rocket took off from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California on Friday night with about 25 satellites as its payload.

The timing of the fuel dump and the fact that it was a polar launch made the blue spiral visible over a large swath of Alaska. "And we got that really cool looking spiral thing," Salat noted.

In January, another spiral was seen, this time over Hawaii's Big Island. A camera at the summit of Mauna Kea, outside the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan's Subaru telescope, captured a spiral swirling through the night sky.

Researchers have said it was from the launch of a military GPS satellite that lifted off earlier on a SpaceX rocket in Florida.

 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
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While school discipline rates have long been reviewed at the end of the year, new research highlights the importance of monitoring daily discipline rate fluctuations throughout the school year. Credit: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (2023). DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2120417120

Rates of school discipline fluctuate widely and predictably throughout a school year and increase significantly faster for Black students than for their white counterparts, University of California, Berkeley, researchers have found.

A new study published today in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences documents for the first time the "dynamic" nature of student discipline during an academic year. Daily rates of punishment across all schools in the study ratchet up in the weeks before Thanksgiving break, decline immediately before major vacations and increase rapidly again when classes resume.

Schools with a high degree of racial disparity regarding discipline referrals or suspensions early in the year see discipline rates for Black students increase even faster as the semester continues, researchers found. By November, the Black student discipline rate is 10 times higher than at the beginning of the year. Compared to white students, it's 50 times higher.

"This work is a game-changer," said Jason Okonofua, assistant professor of psychology at UC Berkeley, and the study's principal investigator. "We can predict year-long suspension rates in just the first 21 days of school. That's information that we needed to know. And now we do."

Okonofua and his colleagues used improved daily discipline-tracking technology to study the snapshots of middle school punishments. Going forward, the granular information they gleaned can help educators keep tabs on escalating school tension. It can even help teachers and school officials ward off potential discipline-causing incidents, much like they modify a lesson plan to overcome a learning gap in the classroom.

"The more information you have, the better decisions you can make," Okonofua said. "If principals or teachers know by Halloween in any given year these students are facing this very heightened risk of being kicked out of school, or in which schools these students face the highest risk, we can get in there and do something about it, as opposed to letting it fester.

"Because the data shows, it would."

Long the focus of federal inquiries, policy debate and scholarly interest, school discipline disparities have been well-documented nationwide. Recent research has shown that high school students who are suspended are more than twice as likely to be charged or convicted of a crime and incarcerated as young adults. Brief online coursework for teachers can even increase empathy and reduce suspensions. Yet, the debate is increasing about whether school officials should be quicker to kick students out of class.

While cycles of school tension might seem intuitive, the focus historically has not been on measuring punishment rates in real-time or introducing interventions before incidents occur.

Instead, districts collect data on student discipline and produce year-end reports for state and federal regulators to examine how discipline varies among schools, which ones are more punitive and where to target interventions. While that "static" data provides a summary of what's gone on throughout the year, it fails to capture the day-to-day realities at school.

To understand this more "dynamic nature" of student discipline, Okonofua and his colleagues assembled four years of data about the daily disciplinary experiences of 46,964 students across 61 middle schools in one of the 10 largest school districts in the country. The district was located in a southern U.S. state and, like an increasing number of organizations, it had implemented a more sophisticated discipline data tracking system.

The resultsespecially the disparitieswere immediately startling.

"It is incredibly important, useful and valuable to know we should do a specific type of intervention at a specific point in the year based on the real-time data. That's where we're going to get the biggest bang for our buck," Okonofua said. "If we can be more cost-efficient, everybody wins."

Okonofua's co-authorsSean Darling-Hammond of UCLA, Michael Ruiz of UC Berkeley and Jennifer L. Eberhardt of Stanford Universityalso published a short video that uses beeping tones to illustrate discipline disparities between Black and white students. The anxiety-inducing tones are meant to simulate how stressful school can be when students are witnessing increasing discipline.

Okonofua likened school discipline tracking tools to an athlete's heart rate monitor at the gym. Rather than simply estimating how hard a workout was, real-time data can be more useful.

"The more data we have, the more we know," Okonofua said. "And the more we know, the more we can do."

The study shows how important it is for districts to create systems for teachers to regularly monitor school discipline, he said. Policy leaders should likewise take note as they write policies and dedicate funding meant to curb discipline, alleviate disparities and minimize disruption.

"It's important to think about each data point. That's a whole story," said Okonofua, reflecting on discipline's lasting effects on both the student in trouble and classmates witnessing the punishment. "I hope we can do as much as possible going forward to just keep in mind that each one of these data points is a whole life."

More information: Sean Darling-Hammond et al, The dynamic nature of student discipline and discipline disparities, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (2023). DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2120417120 Journal information: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
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Supramammilary nucleus projections to the hippocampus (yellow), adult-born new neurons (purple), microglia (magenta), and plaques (lavender) in the Alzheimer's mouse brain. Credit: Song Lab, UNC School of Medicine

In adult human brains, the hippocampus generates new neurons (adult-born neurons, or ABNs) throughout life, helping us maintain memories and regulate emotions. Scientists call this process "adult hippocampus neurogenesis (AHN)." In people with Alzheimer's disease (AD), this process is impaired, leading to reduced production of ABNs with poorer qualities. Given that AD patients often develop both cognitive symptoms (such as memory loss) and non-cognitive symptoms (such as anxiety and depression) for which AHN plays a critical role, one way to help Alzheimer's patients achieve symptom relief could be to restore AHN.

Published in the journal Cell Stem Cell, research from UNC School of Medicine scientists demonstrated that stimulating a brain region called Supramammilary nucleus (SuM) located in the hypothalamus effectively enhanced adult-born neurons in the otherwise impaired Alzheimer's brains of mice. After patterned stimulation of SuM, AD brains developed more ABNs with improved qualities. Importantly, activation of these SuM-modified ABNs restored both cognitive and affective deficits in AD mouse models.

"It's been a longstanding question whether AHN can be sufficiently enhanced in impaired AD brains to improve brain function," said senior author Juan Song, Ph.D., associate professor of pharmacology and a Jeffrey Houpt Distinguished Investigator at the UNC School of Medicine. "An important point to consider when addressing these questions is the low-level hippocampal neurogenesis, which becomes even lower in AD patients.

By manipulating a small number of ABNs in the AD brain, we demonstrate that ABNs can be enhanced even in the presence of AD pathology, and these enhanced ABNs are important for the restoration of behaviors and hippocampal function."

To enhance ABNs in AD brains, Song and colleagues adopted an elegant two-step ABN-enhancing strategy by first stimulating SuM using a patterned optogenetic paradigm with the goal of promoting the generation and developmental properties of ABNs, followed by stimulating the activity of SuM-enhanced ABNs using chemogenetics.

Optogenetics involves the use of light to alter the activity of brain cells expressing light-sensitive opsin genes. Chemogenetics involves the use of inert molecules to alter the activity of brain cells expressing designer's receptors.

"Interestingly, SuM stimulation alone or activation of ABNs without SuM stimulation failed to restore behavioral deficits in AD mice." Song said. "These results suggest that multi-level enhancement of ABNsnamely increasing their number, improving their developmental properties, and enhancing their activityis required to achieve their therapeutic benefits in AD brains."

When Song and colleagues further analyzed the protein changes in the hippocampus of AD mice in response to activation of SuM-enhanced ABNs, the researchers found that several well-known protein pathways were activated inside cells. These pathways include the ones important for synaptic plasticity of neuronal cells that allow enhanced communication among them, as well as the ones important for phagocytosis of non-neuronal microglia that allow efficient plaque clearance.

"It is striking that multi-level enhancement of ABNs through combined SuM and ABN stimulations allows such a small number of ABNs make profound functional contribution in diseased AD brains," Song said. "We are eager to find out the mechanisms underlying these beneficial effects mediated by activation of SuM-enhanced ABNs on AD pathology and hippocampal function. Future efforts will be needed to develop drugs that mimic these beneficial effects mediated by activation of SuM-enhanced ABNs. Ultimately, the hope is to develop first-in-class, highly targeted therapies to treat AD and related dementia."

Co-first authors of the Cell Stem Cell paper are Ya-Dong Li and Yan-Jia Luo in the Song Lab. Other authors are, Ling Xie, Dalton Tart, Ryan N Sheehy, Libo Zhang, and Leon G Coleman Jr, all at the UNC School of Medicine.

More information: Ya-Dong Li et al, Activation of hypothalamic-enhanced adult-born neurons restores cognitive and affective function in Alzheimer's disease, Cell Stem Cell (2023). DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2023.02.006 Journal information: Cell Stem Cell
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Jefferson Lab's CEBAF Large Acceptance Spectrometer in Experimental Hall B. Credit: DOE's Jefferson Lab

In a unique analysis of experimental data, nuclear physicists have made the first-ever observations of how lambda particles, so-called "strange matter," are produced by a specific process called semi-inclusive deep inelastic scattering (SIDIS). What's more, these data hint that the building blocks of protons, quarks and gluons, are capable of marching through the atomic nucleus in pairs called diquarks, at least part of the time. These results come from an experiment conducted at the U.S. Department of Energy's Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility.

It's a result that has been decades in the making. The dataset was originally collected in 2004. Lamiaa El Fassi, now an associate professor of physics at Mississippi State University and principal investigator of the work, first analyzed these data during her thesis project to earn her graduate degree on a different topic.

Nearly a decade after completing her initial research with these data, El Fassi revisited the dataset and led her group through a careful analysis to yield these unprecedented measurements. The dataset comes from experiments in Jefferson Lab's Continuous Electron Beam Accelerator Facility (CEBAF), a DOE user facility. In the experiment, nuclear physicists tracked what happened when electrons from CEBAF scatter off the target nucleus and probe the confined quarks inside protons and neutrons. The results were recently published in Physical Review Letters.

"These studies help build a story, analogous to a motion picture, of how the struck quark turns into hadrons. In a new paper, we report first-ever observations of such a study for the lambda baryon in the forward and backward fragmentation regions," El Fassi said.

In like a lambda, out like a pion

Like the more familiar protons and neutrons, each lambda is made up of three quarks.

Unlike protons and neutrons, which only contain a mixture of up and down quarks, lambdas contain one up quark, one down quark and one strange quark. Physicists have dubbed matter that contains strange quarks "strange matter."

In this work, El Fassi and her colleagues studied how these particles of strange matter form from collisions of ordinary matter. To do so, they shot CEBAF's electron beam at different targets, including carbon, iron, and lead. When a high-energy electron from CEBAF reaches one of these targets, it breaks apart a proton or neutron inside one of the target's nuclei.

"Because the proton or neutron is totally broken apart, there is little doubt that the electron interacts with the quark inside," El Fassi said.

After the electron interacts with a quark or quarks via an exchanged virtual photon, the "struck" quark(s) begins moving as a free particle in the medium, typically joining up with other quark(s) it encounters to form a new composite particle as they propagate through the nucleus. And some of the time, this composite particle will be a lambda.

But the lambda is short-livedafter formation, it will swiftly decay into two other particles: a pion and either a proton or neutron. To measure different properties of these briefly created lambda particles, physicists must detect its two daughter particles, as well as the beam electron that scattered off the target nucleus.

The experiment that collected this data, EG2, used the CEBAF Large Acceptance Spectrometer (CLAS) detector in Jefferson Lab's Experimental Hall B. These recently published results, "First Measurement of  Electroproduction off Nuclei in the Current and Target Fragmentation Regions," are part of the CLAS collaboration, which involves almost 200 physicists worldwide.

SIDIS

This work is the first to measure the lambda using this process, which is known as semi-inclusive deep inelastic scattering, in the forward and backward fragmentation regions. It's more difficult to use this method to study lambda particles, because the particle decays so quickly, it can't be measured directly.

"This class of measurement has only been performed on protons before, and on lighter, more stable particles," said co-author William Brooks, professor of physics at Federico Santa Maria Technical University and co-spokesperson of the EG2 experiment.

The analysis was so challenging, it took several years for El Fassi and her group to re-analyze the data and extract these results. It was her thesis advisor, Kawtar Hafidi, who encouraged her to pursue the investigation of the lambda from these datasets.

"I would like to commend Lamiaa's hard work and perseverance in dedicating years of her career working on this," said Hafidi, associate laboratory director for physical sciences and engineering at Argonne National Lab and co-spokesperson of the EG2 experiment. "Without her, this work would not have seen fruition."

"It hasn't been easy," El Fassi said. "It's a long and time-consuming process, but it was worth the effort. When you spend so many years working on something, it feels good to see it published."

El Fassi began this lambda analysis when she herself was a postdoc, a couple of years prior to becoming an assistant professor at Mississippi State University. Along the way, several of her own postdocs at Mississippi State have helped extract these results, including co-author Taya Chetry.

"I'm very happy and motivated to see this work being published," said Chetry, who is now a postdoctoral researcher at Florida International University.

Two for one

A notable finding from this intensive analysis changes the way physicists understand how lambdas form in the wake of particle collisions.

In similar studies that have used semi-inclusive deep inelastic scattering to study other particles, the particles of interest usually form after a single quark was "struck" by the virtual photon exchanged between the electron beam and the target nucleus. But the signal left by lambda in the CLAS detector suggests a more packaged deal.

The authors' analysis showed that when forming a lambda, the virtual photon has been absorbed part of the time by a pair of quarks, known as a diquark, instead of just one. After being "struck," this diquark went on to find a strange quark and forms a lambda.

"This quark pairing suggests a different mechanism of production and interaction than the case of the single quark interaction," Hafidi said.

A better understanding of how different particles form helps physicists in their effort to decipher the strong interaction, the fundamental force that holds these quark-containing particles together. The dynamics of this interaction are very complicated, and so is the theory used to describe it: quantum chromodynamics (QCD).

Comparing measurements to models of QCD's predictions allows physicists to test this theory. Because the diquark finding differs from the model's current predictions, it suggests something about the model is off.

"There is an unknown ingredient that we don't understand. This is extremely surprising, since the existing theory can describe essentially all other observations, but not this one," Brooks said. "That means there is something new to learn, and at the moment, we have no clue what it could be."

To find out, they'll need even more measurements.

Data for EG2 were collected with 5.014 GeV (billion electron-volt) electron beams in the CEBAF's 6 GeV era. Future experiments will use electron beams from the updated CEBAF, which now extend up to 11 GeV for Experimental Hall B, as well as an updated CLAS detector known as CLAS12, to continue studying the formation of a variety of particles, including lambdas, with higher-energy electrons.

The upcoming Electron-Ion Collider (EIC) at DOE's Brookhaven National Laboratory will also provide a new opportunity to continue studying this strange matter and quark pairing structure of the nucleon with greater precision.

"These results lay the groundwork for upcoming studies at the upcoming CLAS12 and the planned EIC experiments, where one can investigate the diquark scattering in greater detail," Chetry said.

El Fassi is also a co-spokesperson for CLAS12 measurements of quark propagation and hadron formation. When data from the new experiments is finally ready, physicists will compare it to QCD predictions to further refine this theory.

"Any new measurement that will give novel information toward understanding the dynamics of strong interactions is very important," she said.

More information: T. Chetry et al, First Measurement of  Electroproduction off Nuclei in the Current and Target Fragmentation Regions, Physical Review Letters (2023). DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.130.142301 Journal information: Physical Review Letters
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The Smart Classroom Project has redesigned classrooms at over 20 schools in the last 4 years, classrooms that serve as 'live' laboratories producing scientific evidence on the effects on learning (Image: Smart Classroom Project, UOC). Credit: UOC

Can learning and physical and psychological well-being be enhanced by redesigning traditional classrooms? The scientific evidence says they can. Traditional classrooms, which are usually organized in rows of chairs and desks in front of the teacher's desk and blackboard, no longer meet today's expectations and needs in education.

The digital age calls for new designs in learning spaces. Indeed, these innovative spaces can be considered the 'third teacher'playing a key role that affects the students' learning experience. The Smart Classroom Project research group, in the Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences at the Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC), is now examining the relationship between innovative spaces in schools and teaching practices.

"We want to see how these practices take place there, and how they affect learning outcomes," explained Guillermo Bautista, a researcher on project entitled "The third teacher in the digital age: an analysis of the relationship between innovative school spaces, teaching practices and learning outcomes."

Previous studies by the UOC group and other international groups have defined models of spaces that help to improve learning, "but more evidence is required on how these spaces affect important factors in learning, such as the teacher's performance, collaborative learning, motivation, proactivity during learning and engagement, among other factors, as well as cognitive processes such as memory and attention," said Bautista.

A 'live' laboratory

If the classroom furniture has wheels and can be easily folded away, this helps to create a more flexible space and to change learning activities during the same session, or to create different layouts depending on the activity. Meanwhile, circular tables foster communication and collaborative interaction among small groups. These are examples of how classroom layouts and furniture influence well-being and learning. The Smart Classroom Project research group has been able to confirm this at more than twenty schools, where in the last four years it has installed new classrooms which act as a 'live' laboratory for this project.

The teachers' impressions have so far been positive. The results of the evaluations carried out using validated instruments show that according to the teachers, the spaces are "very much better in terms of all the factors measured than those in the ordinary classrooms in which they had worked before," said Anna Escofet, a member of the Faculty of Education at the University of Barcelona and a researcher working on this project. She added that these evaluations validate both the process and the model obtained for the space, and enable some initial conclusions to be drawn. For example, there is no single classroom model that can be applied to all schools, spaces and educational projects.

Three teachers

As Escofet explained, the 'third teacher' is a concept that comes from the ideas of Loris Malaguzzi, who inspired the Reggio Emilia schools and their methodology. Through their work and by creating an educational scenario shaped by the methodology and resources, the teacher acts as the first teacher. The family, with its unquestionable influence on education, is the second teacher. Within this approach, the space has been called the 'third teacher' due to the results of research on its influence on learning and the role it can play in the teaching and learning process.

Its influence is not limited only to infants' and primary schools, where furniture layouts have often been more flexible. According to the experts, classroom design needs to be reconsidered at all levels of education in order to improve teaching practices. "The higher the educational level, the more complicated the methodological and spatial changes become, because the idea that a traditional layout and method ensures successful learning is more deep-rooted. It is something that has not been scientifically proven, but it is ingrained in a large proportion of teachers. However, the spaces need to be reconsidered at all levels based on the factors mentioned," said Bautista.

Breakthroughs in this field are leading to improvements in the learning experience from all perspectives. However, there is still a long way to go, according to the researchers.

"There is a need for interdisciplinary studies that measure a specific way of working with or changing the space and immediate learning, as well as more interdisciplinary studies based on students' and teachers' outcomes and perceptions. These studies can be approached in many ways and by focusing on various factors that may be related to the environment, pedagogy and technology, or with two or three of those dimensions combined," said Bautista. He is one of the members of the Smart Classroom Project group carrying out the project, alongside research staff from the Universitat Oberta de Catalunya, the University of Barcelona and the Universitat Politecnica de Catalunya.

Provided by Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC)
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This photo shows the Roman Space Telescope's Cold Sensing Module, which contains the Simplified Relative Calibration System (sRCS). Credit: Ball Aerospace

A vital subsystem for NASA's Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope was recently delivered to Ball Aerospace in Boulder, Colorado, and installed in the spacecraft's Wide Field Instrument (WFI). Called the Simplified Relative Calibration System (sRCS), this component will allow astronomers to measure the total light output of cosmic objects like galaxies and supernovae with extreme accuracy. When Roman launches by May 2027, scientists will use this data to unravel the secrets of dark energy and dark matter, discover exoplanets, and explore many topics in infrared astrophysics.

"Without this calibration tool, we wouldn't be able to gather accurate enough measurements to achieve the next-level science Roman is designed to do," said Joshua Schlieder, a research astrophysicist at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland.

The Roman team originally planned to use a different version of the sRCS. But to ensure the sRCS would be ready on time and of the caliber needed for the mission, a team of engineers at Goddard jumped in with a new approach. Using some components from the original version, the team redesigned, built, and tested the sRCSa process that usually takes several yearsin about a year and a half, while ensuring it will meet all of the mission's requirements.

"This incredible feat was only made possible by pulling in extraordinary engineers and scientists from various disciplines who exemplify the teamwork and dedication that NASA prides itself in," said Hali Flores, the sRCS product development lead at Goddard.

The subsystem was delivered to Ball Aerospace, where it was integrated into the WFI's Cold Sensing Module, pictured above. The gold and silver component at the center of the photo near the bottom is the electronics box that controls the sRCS, and we can see its output light as a red glow near the center of the image.

The heart of the system is a softball-sized hollow sphere built by Hawaii Aerospace Corporation in Honolulu. Its interior is made of a diffusely reflective material called Spectralon that interacts with light from 24 light-emitting diodes (LEDs), in six different wavelength bands corresponding to the visible and infrared filters of the WFI. It will illuminate the detector array (which will fit in the smile-shaped hole in front of the red light like a puzzle piece) with precisely controlled light at different intensities.

Scientists will periodically compare how the detectors respond to that light with their response to light from cosmic objects, which will reduce uncertainty in Roman's measurements. The sRCS is designed to enable the detectors to measure the relative brightness of celestial objects to roughly 0.1 percent accuracy even when the objects differ in brightness by a factor of 100,000.

This photo shows the engineering test unit of Roman's Simplified Relative Calibration System's light source sphere. Light exits the sRCS through the gold cylinder on top. It can be seen as the red glow in the first image on this page. This subsystem will enable astronomers to measure the brightness of stars, galaxies, supernovae, and more with extreme accuracy. Credit: Hawaii Aerospace

"The sRCS helps scientists understand exactly how our detectors respond to the light from the objects we observeparticularly how that response varies with the color or brightness of the light," said Jackie Townsend, Roman's deputy project manager at Goddard. "The ability to do this on-orbit with this accuracy is unique to Roman, and is core to achieving our science objectives."

Next, additional components will be integrated into the WFI, including the detectors in May. Then, the sRCS and detectors will be tested together. As part of a thermal test this fall, the sRCS will perform its first calibration sequence on the detectors that will fly aboard the spacecraft.

More information: For more information about the Roman Space Telescope, visit: roman.gsfc.nasa.gov or www.nasa.gov/roman. To virtually tour an interactive version of the telescope, visit: https://roman.gsfc.nasa.gov/interactive/.
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Totality in 2002, as seen from the Woomera Rocket Range. Contrast has been slightly stretched to emphasise the shadow and the corona. Credit: Nick Lomb, Author provided

This week, eclipse chasers will be visiting the small town of Exmouth, at the tip of North West Cape in Western Australia. Weather permitting, they are coming to see one of nature's greatest sightsa total eclipse of the sun on Thursday April 20.

Whether staying at hotels, resorts or camping sites, many would have made travel arrangements a year or more in advance. But don't be too disappointed if you can't be there; other opportunities to see total eclipses are coming up in the next few years. Here's what you need to know.

A fully immersive experience

A total solar eclipse occurs on those rare occasions when the Moon lines up with the sun and passes in front of it from our vantage point here on Earth. The bright disk of the sun is entirely hidden for a short periodseconds or minutes. During this time, called the totality, eclipse watchers will see a dark hole in the sky where the sun had been, surrounded by a faint glowour star's corona.

This is what eclipse chasers seek to witness. The string of locations where a total eclipse will be visible to observers is called the "path of totality." People will often travel thousands of kilometers to be in the right place at the right time. They are not only treated to the magnificent sight of the corona, but get a fully immersive experience.

The sky rapidly darkens, the temperature drops, birds stop twittering and animals start going to sleep. The gathered observers, whether from your own group or from distant countries, are united in the experience.

An addictive hobby

There are two warnings associated with total solar eclipses. One is that chasing them is addictive. Often people who have seen their first eclipse immediately want to start planning to see their second.

I can vouch for this personallyafter watching my first total eclipse on December 4, 2002, from the Woomera Rocket Range, I became most keen to observe another. Seeing the corona surrounding the dark sun come into view was an awe-inspiring experience, heightened by the fascinating location and the elation of fellow observers. My next eclipse was on August 1, 2008, at an even more interesting locationa beach on the shore of the Novosibirsk Reservoir in Siberia; and most recently, I watched the Far North Queensland eclipse on November 14, 2012.

The other warning is this: the only time it's safe to look directly at the sun is during the brief period of totality. All other times, during the partial phases before and after, it is necessary to take precautions.

For this, special eclipse glasses are available from planetariums, public observatories, amateur astronomy groups and astronomy stores. Just make sure the glasses have the CE European standard mark.

Taking photographs is safe, though only during totality unless you have the appropriate filters. A tripod is essential, as the corona is faint and you will need long exposures. Seasoned eclipse observers arrive at eclipse sites loaded with professional-grade cameras and telephoto lenses. But if it's your first time, it's probably better to just watch and absorb the event, rather than try photographing it.

Plan ahead and stay mobile

After this week's eclipse in Australia, the next total solar eclipse will be visible on April 8, 2024, from the United States and Mexico. After passing through Mexico, the path of totality sweeps across the United States from Texas to Maine, before moving to parts of Canada.

There are many potential viewing spots along the path. However, before picking a site, it's important to study the "climate report" for the eclipse. This grants the best chance of avoiding the eclipse watcher's greatest enemyclouds.

However, even with the best advance planning, last-minute clouds are possible. Seasoned observers try to stay mobile, so that if the weather forecast is bad for their location, they can move to another location to avoid the clouds.

The US total solar eclipse will be followed on August 12, 2026, with one where the path of totality passes over Spain and Iceland. Then there will be one on August 2, 2027, visible from Egypt and Saudi Arabia.

An upcoming eclipse of greatest interest to Australians is the total solar eclipse on July 22, 2028, for which the path of totality passes from WA through the Northern Territory to New South Wales towns such as Bourke, Dubbo and Mudgee before reaching Sydney. It is rare for a major city to be in the path of totality, and the five million people of Sydney will get a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to view a total solar eclipse from their homes or backyards.

Of course, like at any other eclipse, clouds are a possibility, so keep a lookout for weather reports closer to the date. Before eclipse day, look at the forecasts from the Bureau of Meteorology and specialized astronomy websites.

As mentioned, for serious eclipse observers, mobility before a total eclipse is essential. For example, at the November 14, 2012, eclipse in Far North Queensland, a Sydney Observatory group made a successful last minute dash inland to avoid the forecast poor weather.

Clouds, however, are not all bad. For the same eclipse, I was at Palm Cove Beach and fortunately, the clouds parted just at the start of totality. The excitement involved made for a fantastic and unique experience.

If you are not at North West Cape this week and want to experience the wonders of a future total solar eclipse, you may want to start planning now.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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Observing System Experiments show that ESAs Aeolus mission significantly improves short-range forecasts, particularly in the Tropics and at mid-latitudes. The graph shows the standard deviation of changes when assimilating Aeolus data at an atmospheric pressure of 200 hPa (around 12km altitude). Credit: ECMWFM. Rennie/ESA

On 30 April 2023, all nominal operations of Aeolus, the first mission to observe Earth's wind profiles on a global scale, will conclude in preparation for a series of end of life activities.

Although a recent upgrade to Aeolus' original laser meant that in its last months it has been performing as well as ever, diminishing fuel combined with increasing solar activity means the mission must come to an end.

That ESA's wind mission has made it this far is a great achievement, having outlived its predicted lifetime of three years by over 18 months.

But it's not over just yet.

Over the past year, scientists and industry specialists have been designing a thorough roadmap to bring the Aeolus mission to a close. After much consideration and careful planning it was decided that the best course of action is to carefully re-enter the satellite back to Earth.

The finishing touches to the end-of-life schedule will be made over the coming weeks and a timeline will be announced in due course.

In the meantime, Aeolus will provide data as usual up to the end of operations on 30 April 2023. While no new operational data will be gathered after 30 April, the mission's existing data will still be available to users.

"My gratitude goes to all our ESA and industry colleagues who have developed and operated this unique mission," said Aeolus Mission Manager, Tommaso Parrinello.

"A special thanks goes to the scientific community, whose support has been outstanding and has contributed to one of the most successful missions ever flown by ESA."

A trailblazing wind mission

Aeolus, ESA's fifth Earth Explorer, was tasked with an extraordinarily challenging and pioneering feat: to measure global winds from space using a laser.

Its launch in 2018 was an achievement some thought might not be possible, especially after many years of grit and determination to make its experimental technology work. Plenty of headscratchers and setbacks were encountered along the way.

Once in orbit Aeolus met further trials, being forced into switching to its back up laser less than a year after launch.

The struggles were worth it, as Europe's wind mission triumphed.

Aeolus data are now used by major weather forecasting services worldwide, including the European Center for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF), Meteo-France, the UK Met Office, Germany's Deutscher Wetterdienst (DWD), and India's National Center for Medium Range Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF).

Its many successes, including economic benefits valued at over 3.5 billion, mean that an operational follow-on mission called Aeolus-2 will be launched within a decade.

Despite exceeding its design life in orbit, ESAs Aeolus mission continues to deliver excellent data. The uses for Aeolus wind data are many, from predicting the weather and improving climate models, to tracking events in near-realtime, such as the recent Hunga Tonga volcanic eruption. The image shows how the ash from the eruption left its mark in Aeolus measurements on 15 January 2022. A huge blip, or drop, can be seen in the Aeolus signal over the Tonga region, suggesting the plume of volcanic ash must have reached an altitude above the range that can be detected by Aeolus. Credit: ESA

Remarkable improvements in weather forecasts

Aeolus carries an instrument known as ALADIN, which is Europe's most sophisticated Doppler wind lidar flown in space. A laser fires pulses of ultraviolet light towards Earth's atmosphere, and a receiver detects the light that is scattered back from air molecules, water molecules, and aerosols such as dust.

Thanks to subtle changes in the properties of the light that is received, we can measure how quickly these particles travel away from Aeolusthe speed of the wind.

Over its four and a half year lifetime, orbiting Earth 16 times a day and covering the entire globe once a week, ALADIN has beamed down over seven billion laser pulses.

Supported by the ground segment team, well over 99.5% of the data collected reach users such as weather forecasters within three hours.

The impacts have been remarkable.

Since ECMWF started assimilating Aeolus data in 2020 the satellite has become one of the highest impact-per-observation instruments in existence.

A lot is down to Aeolus' capacity to measure winds where data are scarce. When planes were grounded during the lockdowns imposed due to the COVID pandemic, Aeolus was able to contribute missing data to plug the gap in weather forecasts.

Researchers recently concluded that Aeolus data could also help to improve forecasting of hurricanes in regions of the planet where reconnaissance flights are sparse, particularly over the tropics.

A universal collaboration

The Aeolus mission has been underpinned by a tightly-knit, Europe-wide collaboration of over forty experts that make up the Aeolus Data, Innovation, and Science Cluster (DISC).

Years of calibration and validation activities by the DISC, including tens of thousands of kilometers flown in field campaigns from Greenland to Cape Verde, have honed and improved the instrument and the quality of its data.

In recent years, an international collaboration known as the Joint Aeolus Tropical Airborne Campaign (JATAC) has expanded the remit of Aeolus, honing in on the use of Aeolus data to measure the role of aerosols in tropical weather systems.

Where aerosols are concerned, Aeolus has managed to provide unique insight into volcanic plumes. The satellite was able to track the huge Hunga Tonga eruption of January 2022, and observed a completely new atmospheric phenomenon following the eruption of Raikoke in 2019.

Aeolus wind data also improve modeling of plumes as they spread through Earth's atmosphere, which benefits air traffic safety.

Other innovative projects have used Aeolus data to understand a range of phenomena from Saharan dust to ocean biochemistry and sea surface winds.

The results will inform future Earth Explorer missions such as EarthCARE, a collaborative mission between ESA and JAXA that will carry a similar lidar instrument to measure atmospheric aerosols and clouds.

"The Aeolus mission has been a triumph of European innovation, collaboration and technical excellence," says ESA's Director of Earth Observation Programs, Simonetta Cheli.

"Aeolus is another example of how ESA's Earth Explorers perform beyond expectations, and a shining light for our Future EO program. Its impacts will live long beyond its lifetime in space, paving the way for future operational missions such as Aeolus-2."
This blog covers software patent news and issues with a particular focus on wireless, mobile devices (smartphones, tablet computers, connected cars) as well as select antitrust matters surrounding those devices.
By Mabinty M.Kamara

Report by the Special Investigations Committee set by President Julius Maada Bio to investigate the August 10 protests organisers, planners, Funders and most importantly to make recommendations for action that would prevent a recurrence of the violent August 10 protest has indicated that the protest was politically motivated .

The committee also noted that from interviews conducted across the country, the protest was blamed on the current economic situation in the country which it stated was exploited by politicians.

"All the areas visited by the committee, there was an insistent complaint of economic hardship and food insecurity. Although the situation is not akin to Sierra Leone, there are indications that they may have genuinely contributed to the August 10 incident with rogue politicians exploiting the reality for their political advantage," the report said.

Presenting the report last week to President Julius Maada Bio, the Committee Chairperson lawyer Emmanuel Saffa Abdulai said that they visited all the areas where the violence erupted that day such as Port Loko, Lunsar, Kamakwe, Binkolo and some parts of the Urban and rural parts of the Western area.

He added that they also visited areas where the incidents did not occur such as Bo, Kenema and Kono and that other previous reports were also reviewed which informed the committee report.

He added that the Security sector which is key was relatively prepared, more reactive than proactive and that they were high handed before, during and after the protests.

He added that the Security sector was challenged by logistics and manpower.

Lawyer Abdulai noted that Sierra Leone is politically divided along regional lines as demonstrated in the voting patterns over the years with the two major political parties the Sierra Leone Peoples party and the All Peoples Party (APC) having their strongholds in the South East and the North- West respectively.

He noted that the incidents occurred in the perceived strongholds of the APC party and that the messages across were that the current president must go. This according to the report could not have been coincidental. This is also reinforced by the timing and spontaneity of the protest starting at around 6 am to 900 hours in all the affected areas," he stated.

He added that stakeholders in the affected areas provided names of politicians who aided the protest and that the videos and transcripts were provided to the effect.

"There were also indications that the protests were politically motivated, and they were well planned, organised and coordinated in an organised manner," he stated.

He also noted youth unemployment which according to UNDP development index stands at 60 percent is greatly affecting livelihood, as well as taxes and increasing social menace such as drug abuse.

Also, he noted that they learned during investigation that the social interaction between the government and the people for the latter to channel their grievances and frustrations are limited.

He added that this is a recipe for creating insecurity in the country.

The Chairman commended the role of the media in information dissemination but singled out radio stations in the east end of Freetown who according to residents were fanning the flames of violence.

The committee proffered a number of recommendations for government actions.

After the Violent August 10 protest in 2022 which led to the death of 6 police officers and 26 civilians, the government set up the committee to look into the situation after public outcry for the perpetrators to be brought to book.



Copyright (c) 2023 Politico (17/04/23)
GLENS FALLS  As part of its continuing mission to pair the community and artisans together, The Shirt Factory hosted the Spring is Sweet, Maple in April event Saturday.

These days, theres not a lot that everybody can agree on, but one thing people can agree on is good food, said Eric Unkauf, owner of The Shirt Factory.

In March, the business hosted the Winter Melt spicy food event, and on Saturday, it was the Spring is Sweet maple in April event.

Part of what those are doing is theyre typically charitable events, Unkauf said.

The spicy food event raised around $650 for Community Action, and the maple event brought in around $700 for High Peaks Hospice.

Always we try and work with a smaller, local charity that maybe doesnt have the exposure and/or the fundraising capabilities internally, he said.

Not only raise some money for them, but to just kind of build some awareness in the community of what they are and what they do.

Stars of the event Saturday included Maple Valley Farm and Rusty Bucket Maple Farm.

As maple producers were kind of stewards of our trees, we look out for them like our own kids basically, said Timothy Monica, co-owner of Maple Valley Farm, a fifth generation maple farmer.

Monica and his family are carrying on the multi-generational tradition of tapping local maple trees and producing fresh, upstate maple products.

On the other side of the courtyard, Gavin Gamache, owner of Rusty Bucket Maple Farm and his family, said they are relatively new to the maple game, but are still dedicated to a first class, local product.

Pretty much it goes right from the heat, right to a bottle, Gamache said. It doesnt have the same Vermont taste, not to knock Vermont.

Food and craft vendors from all over the region lined the parking area of the Shirt Factory, some with special maple twists to their offering.

In 2017, Unkauf said the facility started hosting food events as a means to engage more with the community and bring in vendors that might not necessarily have a presence in the area.

What really became kind of quickly apparent was, it wasnt just an event, it was something that helped build a sense of community, he said.

What started as a small gathering of food vendors in the courtyard of the converted clothing manufacturer, has become the Thursday Market and Food Truck Corral, a summer staple for the area.

The first year we made up, like, I think maybe four 12-foot long picnic tables for people to sit at, Unkauf said. Now were up to 30 or 36.

The event has become such a success that Unkauf said hed added pre-market and post-market events such as Winter Melt and Spring is Sweet, to meet the community desire.

Unkauf said all the events are meant to be fun, low-key community celebrations that harken back to simpler times, and wont break the bank.

Ive got six kids myself, and I can remember it felt like you had to take out a lone sometimes when you went places, he said with a laugh. The idea here is putting on a good event, not just for the public, but putting on a good event for the vendors.

The Thursday Market and Food Truck Corral season kicks off May 18 and runs through Sept. 14.

For more information about The Shirt Factory, call 518-502-1450, or visit www.facebook.com/shirtfactory.
VINELAND  The CompleteCare Health Network earned the loyalty of Terri Sullivan over the years.

Sullivan, of Vineland, used to visit the CompleteCare location in Millville for her medical care. A couple of her girlfriends, who lived in Millville, received care there and told her about it.

This was during a period when Sullivan had no health insurance, but it still provided service to her.

Sullivan has health insurance coverage currently and uses the CompleteCare campus here. She stayed with CompleteCare because she liked the service she received from the company in Millville.

I would recommend them to folks that need it. Theyre not all about the money, Sullivan said.

The CompleteCare Health Network, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, was founded in Bridgeton and has since spread to other towns in Cumberland, Cape May and Gloucester counties.

Bridgeton community health center awarded $4M in federal funding BRIDGETON  The city's CompleteCare community health center has been awarded more than $4 mi

CompleteCare is a federally qualified health center and is the second largest in the state, said Curtis Edwards, president and CEO.

Health Center Program Award recipients, like CompleteCare, are community-based health care providers that receive funds from the federal Health Resources & Services Administration Health Center Program to provide services in underserved areas. They must meet a stringent set of requirements, including providing care on a sliding fee scale based on ability to pay and number of children, and operating under a governing board that includes patients.

Every New Jersey county has a health care service that accepts patients who have affordability issues, Edwards said.

CompleteCare sees many Medicaid patients, Edwards said. The network works with local businesses and farms to provide for the areas seasonal workers and migrants across multiple industries.

The outreach workers who visit the camps where the migrants stay are all bilingual, Edwards said.

CompleteCare has five school-based health centers serving children at Bridgeton High School, Vineland High School, Cumberland Regional High School, the Broad Street School in Bridgeton and Downe Township Schools.

Local health officials work to fill the gap in Cape maternity services CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE  Many expectant mothers in Cape May County should expect a longer driv

Besides school-based health centers, CompleteCare funds programs to bring underserved school children to local health centers for medical and dental care. Some might be unserved without the companys intervention.

Some of the patients who use CompleteCare choose between spending money to eat and seeing a doctor, and the delay in receiving medical care can lead to the worsening of chronic illnesses such as opioid addiction and HIV, Edwards said.

Chronic conditions are one of our specialties, he said.

CompleteCare assesses the needs of every community it serves, Edwards said.

In Gloucester County, CompleteCare is looking to open a mens health center in a building it owns by December 2024, Edwards said. In Bridgeton, the company wants to move its OB/GYN and dental divisions to a property it owns.

On a recent Tuesday, nurse practitioner Nicole Babel, 31, of Sicklerville, used a manual blood pressure monitor to check for hypertension in patients at the Vineland CompleteCare Health Campus.

Linwood nursing home evacuated for small fire LINWOOD  A small fire that originated in a storage closet led to a partial evacuation of Co

Babel became familiar with CompleteCare through her mother, who worked for the company in the past and is employed by them now at Vineland RiteCare.

Babel said she feels very fortunate that she has worked for CompleteCare for the past four years.

Their mission is really good. They provide care for an underserved community, she said.

CompleteCare has a mobile unit with a dedicated staff that can visit migrant workers who work early or late as well as affordable housing complexes and faith-based organizations, Edwards said.

A lot of people dont know this service is available to them, he said.
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Waldos Spot in Egg Harbor City is a simple walk-up window that sits on Philadelphia Avenue serving take out to hungry patrons in the know. Its far easier to miss than it is to see from any car driving down the road, but for those who manage to take notice, they offer an offbeat menu of items you would never associate with each other, as things like nachos, fajitas and rice bowls share space with hot dogs and sausages, fresh lemonades and cupcakes. Its a bit all over the place, but in a good way.

But if there is one item that stands out among the rest it has to be their Stuffed Waffle Cones. If you are expecting this treat to have anything to do with ice cream, think again. What stuffs these cones is cheesecake, making for a lovely (and arguably more indulgent) dessert. I went down and grabbed one recently after seeing a bunch of enticing posts on social media.

They switch up the flavors on the stuffed cones on the regular, and on the day I went they had either Snickers or Reeses Peanut Butter Cup varieties available. For me that was a no-brainer, as Reeses is the undisputed king of all candy bars, and an enhancer of any and all desserts without exception.

The waffle cone they used was of the chocolate variety, which normally I would pass on, but it made sense with the Reeses theme of combining chocolate with peanut butter. It came dipped in a chocolate shell too, which was a nice touch. The cheesecake itself featured nice chunky bites of crushed peanut butter cups, and was topped with a full size, fully intact Reeses Peanut Butter Cup serving as a sort of crown. The cheesecake was tasty, but seemed almost frozen, which I didnt expect. I think I would have preferred it room temp, more like how a traditional slice of this cake would be, but I still enjoyed it as it was. The whole thing was drizzled with peanut butter and chocolate sauces, which made it a little tricky to eat like a normal cone, but also added to the over-the-top factor of the concept overall.

I have to admit, I couldnt finish the entire thing in one sitting. As seems to be the case with many of the more rich and indulgent desserts that I order, in the end my eyes were bigger than my stomach (which is a seriously impressive feat on the part of my eyes). I did manage to get through half of it before throwing in the towel, and saved the rest for a midnight snack, which I enjoyed the next evening.

Will I be ordering all of my waffle cones sans ice cream from now on? No, I dont expect I will, but the stuffed variety at Waldos Spot is a fun twist in a new direction. If somebody ever comes up with a version of this using a hot, fresh Belgian waffle as the cone it could be truly amazing. But as is, its still worth the trip.

Waldos Spot is located at 115 Philadelphia Ave. in Egg Harbor City. Check out their Facebook page for more info.
The National Weather Service issued a Red Flag Warning for all of South Jersey Tuesday to highlight the very high risk for the spread of wildfires.

The warning, in effect until 8 p.m., was issued around 11:30 a.m. by the Weather Service. Two hours later, a wildfire broke out off Route 524 and River Road in Washington Township, Burlington County, according to the New Jersey Forest Fire Service.

The Red Flag Warning gets its name from the red flags that are used to alert the public of the high risk of wildfires. Each Weather Service office has their own criteria for what sets off a warning. However, a combination of low humidity, gusty winds and a drying ground due to sunshine leads to it being issued.

Oftentimes, the New Jersey Forest Fire Service is consulted before issuing a warning.

The warning only speaks to the spread of wildfire, not the creation of them. 99% of wildfires are caused by humans, whether unintentionally or intentionally.

Limit your outdoor burning. Make sure cigars and cigarettes are fully put out, too. If you're carrying a trailer, make sure there's enough room between the road and the vehicles so sparks don't fly. Sparks from a railroad caused small bush fires in the northern part of the state last week.

The very high wildfire spread risk will continue into Wednesday. While wind gusts will be in the 20s, as opposed to 30s, the ground will have another day to dry out in the full sunshine.

Those south of Route 30 are currently classified as being "abnormally dry" by the United States Drought Monitor. This does not mean the region is in drought, but ground and water levels are near drought stage.
What's Happening in the Region

The Talibans Creeping Diplomatic Inroads in Central Asia

Kazakhstans Trade Minister Serik Zhumangarin led a delegation to Kabul on April 15 to meet with representatives of the Taliban government and deliver a shipment of humanitarian aid.

Following meetings with the Kazakh delegation, the Talibans acting deputy prime minister, Abdul Ghani Baradar, said Kazakhstan is prepared to reopen the Afghan embassy and consulate soon.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Aibek Smadiyarov confirmed the accreditation of Taliban diplomats on April 17, but made clear that did not mean Kazakhstan was recognizing them as Afghanistans government.

The Afghan embassy has not been operating since the Taliban returned to power in August 2021.

The press service for the Talibans Foreign Ministry said Zhumangarins delegation discussed increasing railway traffic between the two countries to boost trade ties.

The statement also mentioned the Talban had offered the Kazakh delegation an opportunity to invest in Afghan mining projects (See item below in What Im Following).

According to a report from the Afghan media outlet Tolo News, the Talibans acting foreign minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi said Afghan-Kazakh trade during the last year came to some $900 million.

Nooruddin Aziz, the acting Taliban Industry and Commerce Minister, called for increasing trade between the two countries to some $3 billion.

This seems unlikely as Kazakh Foreign Ministry spokesman Smadiyarov said Kazakhstans main exports to Afghanistan are flour, wheat, flaxseed, and sunflower oil.

Smadiyarov did mention exporting railway locomotives to Afghanistan.

Afghanistan currently has three railway lines, one connecting the country to Uzbekistan, which is the route Kazakh exporters use, and two other short lines connecting to Turkmenistan.

Tolo News reported Zhumangarin said Kazakhstan was prepared to issue 30-day business visas to Afghan businessmen.

Kazakh media outlet Kazinform said Kazakhstan will open a trading house in Afghanistan.

Why Its Important: Plans to allow the Taliban to have diplomatic representatives in Kazakhstan shows the Afghan militant group continues to improve its ties with its Central Asian neighbors.

A Taliban delegation visited Tajikistan at the end of March, reportedly visiting the capital Dushanbe and going to the eastern city of Khorugh to discuss occupying the Afghan consulate there.

No government in the world recognizes the Taliban as the legitimate government of Afghanistan, but in a world of realpolitik, the Central Asian governments seem to be accepting the Taliban will not lose control of Afghanistan anytime soon.

Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan, as well as Russia, China, Pakistan, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates have already accredited diplomats from the Taliban.

Tajikistans Loose Definitions of Terrorist and Extremist

Tajikistans prosecutor general reported to the deputies in the upper house of parliament, the Milli Majlisi, that 97 Tajik citizens wanted on charges were extradited back to Tajikistan from other countries in 2022.

Prosecutor general Yusuf Rahmon said 18 of the 97 were wanted in Tajikistan on charges of extremism or terrorism.

Rahmon did not mention which countries were involved, but throughout 2022, Russia extradited activists and journalists living in Russia who were natives of Tajikistans eastern Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Oblast (GBAO).

When GBAO residents attempted to conduct a peaceful protest on May 16, 2022, Tajik authorities branded them extremists and launched a sweeping security crackdown in the region.

Tensions had been high in GBAO since the killing of a local man by police in November 2021.

The extradition from Russia of GBAO natives started shortly after that.

Among the first was Chorshanbe Chorshanbiev, a mixed martial arts fighter who was competing in matches in Russia.

Chorshanbiev had posted messages of support for the demonstrations that followed the killing.

Several other people from GBAO who similarly posted their support for the GBAO demonstrators were extradited from Russia.

After the security operation in eastern Tajikistan May-June 2022, the extraditions increased.

Rahmon said in 2022 alone there were 1,197 crimes in Tajikistan connected to terrorism or extremism, an 18.5 percent increase compared to 2021.

Why Its Important: Prosecutor general Rahmons figure seems high in a country of some 10 million ruled for decades by an authoritarian government.

The more likely explanation for this number is Tajik authorities are resorting to charging critics of, or potential threats to the government with crimes that carry harsh penalties.

The prosecutor general did not list any individual cases.

If he had, he might have been embarrassed to admit that among these alleged terrorists and extremists were lawyers, poets, and journalists with no previous record of association with anti-government groups.

It has become clear after the May 2022 security operation in GBAO that anyone Tajik authorities consider an obstacle or potential threat will be branded a terrorist or extremist and imprisoned.

The Latest Majlis Podcast

This weeks Majlis podcast looks at the recent labor strikes by oil workers in Kazakhstan.

Kazakh President Qasym-Zhomart Toqaev might talk about a new Kazakhstan but there was nothing new about the way Kazakh authorities reacted when oil workers from the western part of Kazakhstan travelled to the capital, Astana, to press their demands.

This weeks guests are Assel Tutumlu, lecturer at the Department of International Relations and Political Science at the Near East University in Nicosia, Cyprus and Luca Anceschi, professor of Central Asian Studies at Glasgow University.

What I'm Following

China Ready to Invest Big in Afghan Lithium Deposits

The Talibans acting Minister for Mining and Petroleum, Shahabuddin Delawar, says Chinese company Gochin could invest up to $10 billion to develop lithium fields in Afghanistan.

Its difficult to say which Chinese deals with the Taliban are genuine and which ones are made simply to keep the Taliban believing China is their friend, with Beijing knowing the project might never be realized.

In any case, China stakes a claim to some of Afghanistans lithium fields.

What Im interested in is the size of this investment.

The mining project involves development of infrastructure  roads and tunnels, and construction of a hydropower plant.

It is the largest amount of money China has invested in a single project in the Central Asian region since the oil and gas pipelines from, respectively, Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan.

When Is Meeting Time in Bishkek?

A Bishkek court upheld the ban on public meetings in the center of Bishkek that has been in effect since March 2022.

The issue is gathering more public interest lately in a country where 20 years ago and more, citizens blocked roads and camped out on city squares for demonstrations that lasted weeks, and sometimes even months.

Fact of the Week

The Kyrgyz ombudsmans press service says there are 1,077 Kyrgyz citizens serving time in Russian prisons.

Central Asians imprisoned in Russia have been targeted for recruitment by the Russian private military contactor Wagner Group.

Thanks for Reading

Thanks for reading our Central Asia in Focus newsletter! I appreciate you sharing it with other readers who you think may be interested.



Feel free to contact me on Twitter or by responding to this email, especially if you have any questions, comments, suggestions, or just want to connect with me about topics concerning Central Asia.



Please consider filling out this brief survey so that I can better understand how this newsletter can be useful for you.



See you next week for more on whats happening in Central Asia.

Until next time,

Bruce
Mortgaged house to buy oil at the instance of online friend who disappeared in virtual reality

Ranganath Achari, a 54-year-old bank manager living in Dapodi, felt his life was about to change when his online woman acquaintance proposed to let him become a partner in her business. However, his dreams were shattered when the woman acquaintance, claiming to be a UK national, disappeared in the web of virtual reality leaving him mired in debt.

In his complaint with the Bhosari police station, Achari has stated that he was relieved to the tune of over Rs 53.68 lakh, an amount he raised by mortgaging his house and taking personal loans by the racket which claimed to be running Kings Veterinary Speciality Centre in the UK.

Achari said he received a Facebook friend request from a woman identifying herself as Cassey Duke in August 2022. Later, she told him that she was associated with the UK-based Kings Veterinary Special Centre, which purchased Ginseng Reserve Fluid that is used as raw material in manufacturing immunity boosters and medicines to treat erectile dysfunctions and diabetes.

According to Achari, the woman told him that presently they were purchasing Ginseng Reserved Fluid. She promised Achari to pay a commission of USD 2000 to 3000 per bottle if he procured the fluid and sent it to them.

Achari added when he started making purchases of the oil, various people who identified themselves as Dr Albert Gregory, Dr Peter Morris from the UK and a woman identifying herself as Anita Bhavan of Bhavan Traders from Mumbai which supplied the fluid.

Achari said after the two con men from Mumbai said they required 25 litres of the fluid, he mortgaged his house and took personal loans to raise the money and purchase the fluid from Anita. He was warned against opening sealed bottles at the time of purchase. He was sent some bottles after he paid the money and thereafter the gang just disappeared. When he opened a bottle and examined the fluid, it looked like plain water.
Strong gusts caused an iron hoarding to fall on April 17, killing at least five people and injuring two more, on a service road next to the Mumbai-Pune highway in the Ravet Kivale in Pimpri Chinchwad.

The deceased identified as Shobha Tak (50), Varsh Kedari (50), Bharti Manchal (33), Anita Umesh Roy (45) and Ramavadh Praladh Aatmaj (Age 29)

As per reports a criminal case has been filed against four people at the Ravet police station. Namdev Baruk Mahsudge (land owner), Datta Gulab Taras (Hording manufacturer), Mahesh Tanaji Gade (the rentee) and the advertising company are named as accused in the complaint filed by Police Sub Inspector Ravindra Sopan Panhale (age 31) of Ravet police station.

As per the police the accused had not taken any permission or license to operate the hording business from the PCMC. The culprits being the inhabitants of the area were fully aware of the weather condition as it is close to Sahyadri mountain ranges there are high possibilities of gusty winds and heavy rain, still no safety measures were taken by the accused in this case. The place where the hording was installed is a densely populated area and high volume of traffic.

A case has been filed under section 304 (2) and 34 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
A textile businessman from Kothrud was stabbed to death and his dead body was found in a decomposed state in an open space in Bavdhan. This incident came to light on April 13. A murder case has been registered against the unknown accused in Hinjewadi police station on Monday.

According to the police the body was discovered in an open area next to the Ganga Legend Society Labour Camp in Bavadhan.

As the body disintegrated, the odour became apparent. The deceased has been identified as Nitesh Haribhau Kalbhor (age 42, of Sangam Chowk Kothrud) who owns a clothing store in Kothrud. The victim was stabbed by a sharp object in the back.

A case has been registered under section 302 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Hinjewadi police are further investigating the case.
A 20-year-old woman accused of stabbing a teen in Rock Island awaits sentencing after accepting a plea agreement.

Destiny T.L. Thomas, of Rock Island, stabbed the girl just after midnight on Dec. 6 at the Maple Ridge Apartments, 3700 5th St., according to the Rock Island Police Department. Authorities considered the teens injury life threatening.

The Rock Island County States Attorneys Office initially charged her with two counts each of home invasion and aggravated battery in relation to the attack, according to court records.

Thomas has since pleaded guilty to a single count of aggravated battery and is scheduled for sentencing on June 11, records show. The remaining charges were dropped on April 10 when Thomas entered her plea.

Judge Frank Fuhr, who presided over the hearing, ordered a presentence investigation and mitigation hearing ahead of Thomas sentencing.

Presentence investigations are designed to produce background reports on defendants that are meant to aid judges during sentencing. Mitigation hearings are also meant to help judges determine appropriate sentences. They can include arguments from attorneys, statements from victims, statements from the defendant and other presentations.

At a bond reduction hearing, also on April 10, Fuhr denied Thomas motion to reduce her bail, which remains $250,000, court records state. To be released, she would have to post a $25,000 bond.
Former Augustana College president Steve Bahls and his wife, Jane, are establishing a scholarship honoring Nelly Cheboi, a 2016 alumna and the 2022 CNN Hero of the Year.

The "Nelly Cheboi Endowed Scholarship" will be awarded to international students at Augie demonstrating financial need and academic merit.

The Bahls committed $50,000 to founding the scholarship; the funds will be matched dollar-for-dollar through Augie trustee Murry Gerber's matching challenge. The first award is anticipated after the fund matures in three years.

Cheboi  who grew up in Mogotio, Kenya  is the co-founder and CEO of TechLit Africa, a nonprofit that redistributes recycled technology by building computer labs in schools in rural Kenya. She was named the 2022 CNN Hero of the Year in December for her work in bridging the digital divide, also winning the $600,000 "Elevate Prize" to further support TechLit Africa's services.

During his presidency, Bahls oversaw significant growth in international student enrollment. He said the creation of the Nelly Cheboi scholarship recognized her work to expand digital literacy and highlighted her as a role model for Augustana students.

She is someone who had an idea, who was told that idea could never be implemented, he said in a news release. She persisted, used her Augustana-taught critical thinking and analytical skills to start this wonderful organization. We want to honor her and send a message to students who receive this award: Dont be shy in your ambitions and set your goals high.

The Bahls met Cheboi in 2011 when their church, Trinity Lutheran in Moline, sponsored her room and board at Augie. Today, they consider her an adopted daughter, spending holidays together and connecting several times throughout the year.

Additionally, Jane Bahls chairs the TechLit Africa board.

To her, it's been a joy to see Cheboi follow her dreams and empower young people to gain employable skills with the option of staying in their home communities.

For these kids, its fun and engaging, Jane Bahls said in the news release. It provides them real opportunities for working online; they are learning all of those skills. Its exciting. Not because I love technology but because I love the idea of their rise out of poverty.

The Bahls also created the "Steven and Jane Bahls Scholarship," which provides financial assistance to full-time students demonstrating financial need.

For more information, contact Nicole Lauer at 309-794-7645.
Russia tries to ease tensions between Syria and Turkey

An attempt to mend ties while partner China does the same in the Middle East

Turkey and Syria have protracted disagreements on the security issues which affect them

Syrian, Turkish, Russian, and Iranian deputy foreign ministers concluded two days of discussions for Syria-Turkey reconciliation without agreeing on a date or location for a conference to prepare a summit.

Russia hailed the meetings as "frank and direct," while Turkey viewed them as "transparent and clear."

Russia Hosts Talks with Turkey, Syria, and Iran

During the discussions, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov urged the Syrian and Turkish parties to be adaptable and efficient, avoid hostile rhetoric, and seek common ground.

He stated that Moscow and Tehran would work to establish favorable conditions for continued discussions between the opposing groups in Syria's civil conflict. According to the UN, the conflict has ravaged the nation and killed over 350,000 fighters and civilians.

Since 2011, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has conducted a proxy war against Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Tehran has sent paramilitaries to strengthen the Syrian army, while Moscow has given air assistance, allowing Assad to retake control of 70% of the nation, Irish Times reported.

The Kremlin has also repeatedly attempted to assist Syria in repairing strained ties with other nations, especially neighboring Turkey, which has supported armed opposition to Assad during the 12-year conflict. Per AP News, the Turkish and Syrian military ministers met in Moscow in December, the first such meeting since Syria's revolt turned civil war began in 2011.

Syria's deputy foreign minister, Ayman Sousan, praised Russia and Iran for their assistance in "confronting terrorism" in statements broadcast by the state news agency SANA. Sousan chastised those nations who "took advantage of the situation created by this war to send their forces to Syria illegally" and backed "terrorist groups."

Read Also: Syrian FM Visits Egypt After Severing Diplomatic Ties in 2011

Turkey-Syria Tensions

During Syria's civil war, Turkey has sponsored armed opposition organizations seeking to destabilize Assad's administration, which has murdered almost 500,000 people and displaced half of the country's prewar population.

Turkey de facto controls significant swaths of northern Syria, and Sousan stressed that the evacuation of the Turkish military from Syrian land is necessary for normalizing relations, according to Fox News.

Despite Turkey's assistance for Syrian opposition forces in the north, Ankara and Damascus are concerned about the US-backed, Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces in Syria's northeast.

Turkey-backed opposition forces battled with the SDF in the past, accusing them of being an extension of Turkey's outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party, or PKK. For decades, the PKK has fought against the Turkish government in Ankara.

Assad's regime has portrayed the SDF as a separatist army stealing the country's resources while holding Syria's biggest oil reserves.

The attempts toward Turkish-Syrian reconciliation come as Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who faces presidential and legislative elections in May, faces significant domestic pressure to return Syrian refugees amid a severe economic crisis and rising anti-refugee sentiment.

Related Article: Syria's Assad Takes Part in Arab Leaders Summit in Saudi Arabia

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Thirteen-year-old Zach Maxwell knew something was wrong when he struggled to uncap a pen after taking a fitness test.

Just a week or two before, the Pleasant Valley student threw his arm out playing dodgeball.

I couldnt really move it. I could barely hold a ball. I couldnt squeeze it. I had no strength in my arm, Zach said. But it got better.

Until, that is, he did a pushup test in P.E.

Afterward, he could barely pull a cap off a pen to write down how many pushups he'd done. In the next test, he could hold a plank for only about half as long as he could the year before because his arm hurt.

I just couldnt hold myself up any longer; it was just too painful, Zach said. So then, after that, I was like, Mom, its pretty bad. It hurts. Its messed up.' 

His doctor first suspected a problem with Zachs rotator cuff, and a physical therapist gave him some exercises.

It wasnt getting better.

After a few months came the diagnosis: An aggressive form of bone cancer. Zach would need chemotherapy, and his right arm would have to be amputated from the shoulder.

Community support followed.

When he and his mom, Jodi Maxwell, tried to cancel their YMCA membership as financial headwinds appeared on the horizon, an employee pulled from the Ys scholarship fund to cover the family.

A Bettendorf Y member paid for an e-bike with an accommodation for Zachs amputation at a Saturday benefit hosted by the Bettendorf Y. And a GoFundMe has raised thousands of dollars to help the Maxwells with medical expenses.

I just, I felt really loved and cared about, Zach said.

On Monday, he was packing for another trip to Rochester, Minnesota, for another round of chemo treatment. Its now a familiar trek.

Because the treatment takes multiple days to cycle through his system, theres a lot of wait time. Zachs grandparents frequently drive to Rochester to keep him and his mom company, which means a lot of card-playing  one of his favorite activities.

His grandparents taught him to play Spades, Whisk and Smear, with a deck of 52 playing cards. And they play for hours. Zach said they had to throw away a pack of well-used cards after corners tore and edges creased.

I think in one day, we played six or seven hours of cards, Zach said.

He recently had the sutures removed from his March 6 amputation, and he's looking forward to being fitted next week for his prosthetic. The passive device, which means it doesnt move on its own, will make it possible to wear a backpack with both straps again.

In about six months, he'll likely qualify for an upgrade.

Surgeons relocated Zachs arm nerves, which will grow along a graft mesh and connect to his other muscles. In the future, those could pave the way for a robotic hand that Zach could open and close, allowing him to twist his wrist and possibly move his thumb.

Ultimately, the robotic hand could pick up signals from nerves elsewhere in his body and react.

If I think about opening my right hand, on my front part of my chest, itll move a muscle, and if I think about closing it, they said itll move a muscle on my back, and the prosthetic will sit there and pick up on the movements and open and close the hand and everything, Zach said.

Katie Gagner, a Maxwell family friend, has helped organize fundraisers and community events for Zach. She's known his mom for a little over a year, having worked together as nurses. She took the reins on organizing a GoFundMe and a CaringBridge account to give Jodi Maxwell more time to focus on Zach.

"I lost my daughter three years ago," Gagner said. "And he's definitely brought happiness back into my life."

"I always said I never want any mother to experience what I've experienced, and I'll do whatever I can. This was just a small opportunity for me to try to make a difference with them and give her all the time with Zach that she needed."
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  An 84-year-old white man who shot a Black teen at his front door in Kansas City, Missouri, last week has been charged with armed assault, and the Clay County prosecutor said Monday there was a racial component to the case.

Prosecuting Attorney Zachary Thompson said at a news conference that Andrew Lester shot 16-year-old Ralph Yarl, who is recovering at home after being released from the hospital on Sunday.

When asked if anything was said between Lester and Yarl that made Thompson believe the shooting was racially motivated, Thompson said nothing like that is indicated in charging documents.

We understand how frustrating this has been but I can assure the criminal justice system is working and will continue to work, Thompson said at a news conference.

Yarl was supposed to pick up his two younger brothers last week when he approached the wrong house. Lester came to the door and shot Yarl in the head -- then shot him again. No words were exchanged before the shooting, the probable cause statement said.

Lester told police that he lives alone and had just gone to bed when he heard his doorbell, according to a probable cause statement. He said he picked up his gun and went to the door, where he saw a Black male pulling on the exterior storm door handle and thought someone was breaking in.

Community leaders and an attorney for Yarls family had earlier demanded justice for the Black teen. Thompson said an arrest warrant was issued but Lester was not yet in custody.

The shooting outraged many in Kansas City and across the country. Rev. Vernon Howard, president of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference of Greater Kansas City, said in a statement Monday that the homeowner should immediately be arrested for what he called a heinous and hate-filled crime.

The Missouri Senate held a moment of silence for Yarl on Monday. We pray for justice, Democratic Sen. Lauren Arthur said.

The shooting happened Thursday night in a middle class neighborhood in north Kansas City. Yarl was sent to pick up his twin younger brothers. He didn't have a phone with him and went to the wrong block, his aunt, Faith Spoonmore, wrote on a GoFundMe page set up to help pay medical bills. By Monday afternoon, $1.4 million had been raised.

Graves said that Yarl's parents asked him to pick up his brothers at a home on 115th Terrace, but he mistakenly went to 115th Street, the Kansas City Star reported.

Spoonmore wrote that Yarl pulled into the driveway and rang the doorbell.

The man in the home opened the door, looked my nephew in the eye, and shot him in the head, Spoonmore wrote. When Yarl fell to the ground, the man shot him again.

Spoonmore wrote that Yarl approached three different homes "before someone finally agreed to help him after he was told to lie on the ground with his hands up. The AP could not independently confirm this account.

Yarl is a bass clarinetist who earned Missouri All-State Band honorable mention and who plays several instruments in the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra of Kansas City, Spoonmore wrote. A statement from the North Kansas City School District described Yarl as an excellent student and talented musician.

Yarl was released from the hospital Sunday and is recovering at home, his father, Paul Yarl, told the Kansas City Star. Spoonmore said Yarl is doing well physically but has a lot of trauma to overcome emotionally.

Police have not identified the shooter or his race, though civil rights attorney Ben Crump said the family provided information indicating he was white. He did not elaborate.

By Monday afternoon, the home where the shooting happened had been vandalized. Black spray-paint on the side of the house showed a heart with 16 in the middle. Eggs splattered the front windows and the door.

The shooting has caught the attention of national figures.

Vice President Kamala Harris wrote on Twitter that she and her husband were praying for Yarl.

Lets be clear: No child should ever live in fear of being shot for ringing the wrong doorbell," Harris tweeted.

Bernice King, daughter of Martin Luther King Jr., wrote on Twiter that "the man who did this should be charged AND we need to work for the legislative and heart change to prevent these tragedies.

Graves said investigators will consider whether the suspect was protected by Stand Your Ground laws, which allow for the use of deadly force in self-defense. Missouri is among around 30 states with such laws.

These laws breed a society of violence and fear while providing cover for those who harm, maim and kill others, state Rep. Marlene Terry, a St. Louis Democrat who chairs the Missouri Legislative Black Caucus, said in a statement.

A message seeking comment from Republican Gov. Mike Parson, a staunch gun rights supporters, wasnt immediately returned.

Crump, who has represented families in several high-profile case of Black people being shot, including those of Trayvon Martin, Michael Brown, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and George Floyd, called it asinine that charges have to wait for an interview with Yarl.

We all believe that if the roles were reversed and this was a Black citizen who shot a 16-year-old for merely ringing his doorbell, they would have arrested him, and he wouldnt have slept in his bed that night, Crump said.

Two days after Yarl was shot, a 20-year-old woman was killed by a homeowner in Upstate New York Saturday after the car she was in drove to the wrong address. Washington County Sheriff Jeffrey Murphy said Kaylin Gillis was in a car with three others looking for a friends house.

As the car was turning around, Kevin Monahan came out and fired two shots, one of which struck Gillis. Monahan was charged with second-degree murder.

Dont sugarcoat it: How to talk to your kids honestly about racism Helping your childs health Talk to your child honestly The appearance of impropriety When a child enters school Reaching out to other families
A handful of Gov. Kim Reynolds picks to lead state agencies and serve on state boards and commissions were confirmed to their roles with little to no bipartisan support under a new Republican super majority in the Iowa Senate.

Senate Republicans on Monday confirmed Reynolds picks over the objections of Democrats to lead Iowa's state education agency and serve on boards that govern its three state universities and nominate judges in the state.

Reynolds office did not immediately respond to a request for comment Monday evening.

Republicans hold a supermajority in the Senate, controlling 34 of 50 seats, which prevents Democrats from blocking gubernatorial appointees that require a two-thirds majority.

Reynolds nomination of Robert Cramer to the Iowa Board of Regents passed by the slimmest of margins on a 34-16 party-line vote, with all Democrats opposed.

Cramer previously was nominated to the board in 2013 by former Gov. Terry Branstad, but lost a confirmation vote in the Iowa Senate when Democrats held the majority.

Vice president of land development at road construction company Cramer & Associates in Grimes, Cramer finished second in a Republican congressional primary in 2014.

Sen. Herman Quirmbach, a Democrat from Ames and ranking member of the Senate Education Committee, reiterated concerns that sunk Cramers nomination in 2013, namely his public opposition to marriage equality in the state.

I asked him in recent conversation to describe how his views had changed. His response was, Not that much, Quirmbach said on the Senate floor. I dont think that a sterile expression of respect for every student is sufficient to lead our great universities.

Our universities have to be warm, welcoming, supportive places for all students of all backgrounds. I dont think that Mr. Cramer is capable of doing that.

Sen. Ken Rozenboom, a Republican from Pella who chairs the Senate Education Committee, praised Cramer for his remarkable public service on various civic boards, and values his construction expertise.

Cramer told The Gazette ahead of the confirmation vote his religious views also compel me to love everybody and treat everybody the best I can.

He said his experience in construction could help the regents in guiding their universities through growth and building, and hopes to build bridges and trust between the regent universities and conservative lawmakers.

Cramer since 2019 has given $37,871.36 to Republicans and Reynolds in cash and in-kind contributions  including more than $27,500 to Reynolds in the fall of 2021.

The Senate also voted 48-2 to reconfirm Sherry Bates to the Board of Regents and reconfirmed Nancy Dunkel by a vote of 49-1.

Senators also voted 48-2 to confirm James Risewick, who was appointed by Reynolds in 2022 to fill a vacancy and has been serving on the Board of Regents in the interim.

Democrats objected to Reynolds picks to lead the Iowa Department of Education and to serve on the Public Employment Relations Board and State Judicial Nominating Commission.

The Iowa Senate confirmed Chad Aldis  Reynolds pick to succeed Ann Lebo, who resigned as director of the Iowa Department of Education  in a 37-13 vote, with all but three Democrats voting against his confirmation.

Quirmbach told The Gazette last week he would vote to confirm Aldis in the interest of maintaining a working relationship moving forward.

Aldis has worked for multiple charter school and private school choice think tanks.

Democrats criticized Aldis for never having worked or taught in a public school.

We are at a crossroads with our public schools Sen. Molly Donahue, a Democrat from Cedar Rapids, said on the Senate floor, referring to a bill signed into law by Reynolds early this year allowing families to use taxpayer money to pay for private school tuition.

We need somebody who is going to be running the Department of Education that is passionate about public education and knows public education, Donahue said.   For the last 20 years, he has been focused on education reform, including advocating in multiple states for charter school laws and private school choice legislation.

That is not the resume of a pro-public school advocate who is looking to help navigate the rough seas ahead for our public schools, Donahue said.   We need somebody, a director, who understands the public schools, public school funding, the needs of the majority of the students in our state, and somebody who is going to fight for this system that has been starved and strangled for the last 12 to 14 years.

Sen. Brad Zaun, R-Urbandale, said Aldis background advocating for education reform in Ohio gives me more reason to support him. Zaun, who met with Aldis ahead of the confirmation vote, said he is interested in increasing the student performance of all the schools in the state of Iowa.

Zaun, too, argued Aldis is committed to speaking on behalf of the teachers as well as giving flexibility to school districts so they can improve student importance.

Yes, we did pass a school choice bill, and we need someone in there that understands and supports empowering parents in the state of Iowa, Zaun said.

Democrats also objected to the nominations of Bradley Hartkopf to the State Judicial Nominating Commission and Cheryl Arnold, Public Employment Relations Board. Both were confirmed by a vote of 35-15, with all but one Democrat opposed.

Democrats objected to having a corporate lobbyist on the committee that interviews applicants and selects nominees for appointment to the Iowa Supreme Court and the Iowa Court of Appeals. Hartkopf is the director of public policy for the Iowa Association of Business and Industry.

Zaun said Iowa Code does not prohibit a lobbyist from serving on the commission, and called Hartkopf a decent person who exercises good judgment.

As for Arnold, Sen. Bill Dotzler, a Democrat from Waterloo, said he did object to her specifically, but its time we address the issues surrounding the PERB and erosion of collective bargaining rights in the state for public employees.

The Senate voted unanimously to reconfirm Debi Durham as the director of Iowa Economic Development Authority and the Iowa Finance Authority. Durham has led IEDA since 2011 and has led both agencies since 2019.

The Senate also voted overwhelmingly to reconfirm Beth Townsend as director of Iowa Workforce Development. She has served in that role since 2015. Several Democrats objected to Townsends renomination for recommending changes to Iowas child labor laws, and for what they saw as her inability to address the shortage of child care workers in the state.
DES MOINES  Senate Republicans passed a bill that would cap non-economic damages in commercial vehicle lawsuits, sending it to Gov. Kim Reynolds desk for a signature.

The Senate gave final passage to Senate File 228 on Monday, a bill that would cap non-economic damages at $5 million in lawsuits involving commercial vehicles and provide limited liabilities for employers in those lawsuits.

The bill passed 31-19. Three Republicans joined all Democrats in voting no.

Supporters of the bill have said it would prevent so-called nuclear verdicts - which have been seen in other states - that deliver tens or hundreds of millions of dollars in lawsuits against trucking companies. They also argued the limits would bring down insurance coverage rates in the state and bring certainty to a vital industry.

The bill was supported by business groups, trucking companies and many other businesses. It was opposed by trial lawyers and justice groups.

"The goal of this amendment is protecting Iowans who are injured while lowering and protecting predictability and stability for our critical components of our supply chain," said Sen. Mike Bousselot of Ankeny, the bill's floor manager.

The Senate passed a version with a $2 million cap and broader liability protections in February, but the House amended the bill to increase the cap to $5 million. Bousselot said the bill is "far short of the policy that would be ideal," but that it represents an agreement between the Iowa trucking industry and trial lawyers.

Democrats have said the bill will take away Iowans' rights to a trial by jury to decide fair compensation in situations of serious injury or death caused by a commercial vehicle.

While he voted against the bill, Sen. Nate Boulton, D-Des Moines, said the amended version represented a significant compromise and took out some of the most objectionable pieces of the original bill.

"The work done by so many in this chamber and in the House to continue working on this legislation and prevent the harshest of outcomes from becoming real in that original legislation is truly appreciated," he said.

Damages cap

The bill would cap damages from death, injury and other non-economic sources in lawsuits involving commercial vehicle drivers and companies at $5 million. Economic damages would not be capped, and all punitive damages would go to the plaintiff.

The cap would not apply if the driver of a commercial vehicle was doing one of the following:

Operating with an alcohol concentration of 0.04 or more

Operating under the influence of a drug

Refusing to submit to alcohol testing

Committing a felony involving the use of the vehicle

Using the vehicle to illegally manufacture or distribute a controlled substance

Driving without a commercial drivers license or while the license is suspended or revoked

Reckless driving

Using a electronic device while driving

Speeding more than 15 miles per hour above the speed limit

Commercial vehicle definition

The list of vehicles covered by the bill includes vehicles weighing more than 26,000 pounds, vehicles transporting hazardous materials, some livestock transportation vehicles, and road tractors. It does not include vehicles designed for 16 or more passengers, including buses, or delivery or pickup trucks used for commercial purposes.

The Senate bill originally had a much broader definition of commercial vehicle, which included buses, delivery trucks, company-owned pickup trucks

Employer liabilities

The bill would shield commercial vehicle employers from liability stemming from direct negligence in hiring an employee who causes an accident, but employers could still be sued for direct negligence in supervising, training or trusting an employee.

The last time the Senate considered the legislation, it was written to shield employers from legal liability in most cases, but House lawmakers stripped some of those protections.

"When a company knows the operator of a commercial motor vehicle should no longer be behind the wheel, they now will have a higher duty of care because it will be liable for higher damages that those decisions cause," Boulton said. "That's better for safety on our roads. It's better for Iowans."
After his first federal trial ended in a hung jury, a man who was stationed at Ellworth Air Force Base was found guilty on Thursday of attempting to entice a minor in summer 2021.

James Dean Hanapel, 22, of Jacksonville, Florida, was arrested in August 2021 during a routine undercover operation where law enforcement agents pose as underage children on the internet during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. In recent years, the stings have led to arrests of primarily local men.

At the time of the operation, Hanapel was a 20-year-old Airman First Class stationed at Ellsworth. He was discharged from the Air Force in December 2021, Ellworth Air Force Base Public Affairs Officer Second Lt. Michael Caggiano confirmed on Monday.

Hanapel started a conversation Aug. 10, 2021 with Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent Richie Berger, who was posing as a 14-year-old girl named "Journey" on an online messaging app, according to an affidavit filed the day after his arrest.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Collins told the jury on the first day of the three-day trial the conversation moved to text messaging "almost right away." Once texting, "Journey" told Hanapel she was only 14 years old.

"He could have walked away," Collins said. "He kept on communicating with her."

On Aug. 12, 2021, after sexual conversations, Hanapel agreed to meet up with "Journey" at West Middle School in Rapid City. Law enforcement predetermined the location. Collins said Hanapel stopped to buy condoms on his way to Rapid City from Box Elder after "Journey" asked if he had any.

Both Collins and Ellery Grey, Hanapel's defense attorney, stressed that the main question at trial was whether law enforcement entrapped Hanapel.

Collins said it was not a "who-done-it" or "what happened" case, but a question of whether Hanapel was entrapped by law enforcement.

Grey said the agent used "flattery and persuasion" in the conversations with Hanapel, who was "resistant" and not already willing to commit the crime.

Although the law allows undercover agents to use deception to give someone already willing to commit a crime the opportunity to do so, the government cannot legally persuade an unwilling person to commit a crime.

"Simply giving someone a favorable opportunity to commit a crime is not the same as persuading him," read the jury instruction on entrapment.

The first jury, which heard the case in October 2022, concluded the trial with a note to the judge that stated, "We as a jury have not been able to come to a unanimous decision regarding entrapment."

Now that Hanapel has been convicted, he faces a minimum of 10 years in federal prison and a maximum of life.

He is scheduled to be sentenced at 1:30 p.m. on July 7 at the federal courthouse in Rapid City. He is currently held at the Pennington County Jail.
After suffering a heart attack last week, Randy Seiler, chairman of the South Dakota Democratic Party and former U.S. attorney for the District of South Dakota, died Monday, the South Dakota Democratic Party confirmed on Tuesday.

Seiler was in a coma in a Sioux Falls hospital Monday, the Argus Leader reported. He was running with his dog at the Oahe Dam near Pierre when he suffered the heart attack, according to a Friday statement from Berk Ehrmantraut, executive director of the South Dakota Democratic Party.

Seiler's term was set to end on May 1. South Dakota Democratic Party Acting Chair Jennifer Slaight-Hansen will assume all responsibilities of chair until her elected term begins on May 1, according to the party's statement.

I am in shock. We have lost one of the great leaders of our party. I personally have lost a mentor and friend," Slaight-Hansen said. "I fall short of words to express my sadness on his sudden passing. I pray his soul rests in peace. I wish Wanda and his family immense strength as they move forward."

President Barack Obama nominated Seiler as the 41st United States Attorney for the District of South Dakota in 2015, a capacity he served in until his retirement on Dec. 31, 2017.

U.S. Attorney Alison Ramsdell of the District of South Dakota released a statement on Tuesday afternoon saying the office "mourns the untimely passing of our friend and former colleague."

"He led with unparalleled dedication to the cause of justice and equality under the law. Randy was an inspiring and tenacious leader, and we will miss him dearly," Ramsdell said. "Our thoughts are with Randy's wife, Wanda, and their family during this difficult time."

Seiler spent a total of 22 years working with the U.S. Attorney's Office. As an assistant U.S. attorney, he spent 14 years prosecuting violent crime cases, according to a 2017 Department of Justice Release announcing his retirement.

Seiler grew up in Herreid, South Dakota, served in the U.S. Air Force, which included a year-long tour in Vietnam, and graduated with honors from the University of South Dakota School of Law.

Funeral arrangements for Seiler are pending.
The Rapid City Fire Department  which usually focuses on putting out fires  was the source of some smoke floating in the air in Rapid City Tuesday.

The department's Wildfire Mitigation Crew conducted a controlled burn to reduce fire fuels and invasive plants growing in ditches as summer  and fire season  approaches.

In 2022, over 14,000 acres across South Dakota burned in wildfires.

Tuesday's controlled burn covered a little less than 5 acres, according to RCFD spokesperson Tessa Jaeger. It began near the railroad tracks by the Rapid City Skate Park and continued to East Boulevard North.

The crew intended to get all the way to Runnings on East Anamosa Street on Tuesday, but stopped due to smoke dispersal. They plan to continue on Wednesday, Jaeger said.

Lt. Eric O'Connor, Rapid City Fire Department Fire and Life Safety Division and Wildland Fire, said the land was selected because of the high-risk vegetation as well as kids and homeless populations frequenting the area.

"Numbers show we have several fires in these areas every year," O'Connor said.

The land within the burn area belongs to the city, the Rapid City, Pierre, & Eastern Railroad, and Runnings.

"We really battle a lot of that  ownership, this person wants this, or this agency doesn't allow it, so this is really cool. We can just go and not worry about a property line," he said.

The controlled burn removes invasive non-native grasses, which grow and die early in the year, creating fuel for wildfires in the summer months. Native grasses and forbs  herbaceous flowering plants  grow and turn green later in the year, making them more resistant to fire, O'Conner said.

"We're knocking back the non-native species and then trying to promote the native species of grasses and forbs," he said.

A water engine stayed nearby as the crew used torches to burn dried grass in the ditch. O'Connor said a lot goes into selecting when to do a controlled burn, and the window this year was narrow.

"Just a couple weeks ago, we were digging out two feet of snow," O'Conner said. "Then when we get into the green up, everything turns real green, then it's not very good to carry fire."

The exact day for a controlled burn is selected based on weather, and Tuesday was picked because of low winds and relatively low temperatures.

"We've been talking to the weather service for days, picking this day versus that day," O'Connor said. "We have one of our crew members every hour taking environmental observations, fuel moistures, relative humidity, all those types of things."

The department has about 10 other controlled burns planned in the city and surrounding areas "as environmental conditions allow."

"We'll just do what we can," O'Connor said.
After hearing public proponent and opponent testimony of proposed social studies standards at the fourth and final public hearing in Pierre on Monday, the South Dakota Board of Education Standards voted 5-2 to institute the contentious standards.

The most recent version of the proposed social studies standards, released on March 30 on the the department's website, will now enter a two-year transitional period that districts will use to research and adopt curriculum and training resources to implement the new standards. Beginning in the fall of the 2025 school year, the standards will be statewide.

Voting in favor of the standards were Rich Meyer, Phyllis Heineman, Linda Olsen, Julie Westra and Steven Perkinss. Terry Nebelsick and Steve Willard voted against. Four of the five affirmative votes were by members appointed by Governor Kristi Noem. Noem, who had greatly influenced the process, ordered the suspension of the original working group tasked with drafting the standards in 2021. This group consisted of 40 to 50 educators from across the state, represented every grade level and was formed similarly to the state's previous revisions through an application and nomination process then chosen by the Department of Education.

Instead, in August 2022, Noem replaced the work group with the Social Standards Revision Commission, of which its members were appointed through the Governor's Office. The 15-person committee included only two South Dakota educators  both of whom have spoken out against the process.

After 90 minutes for both proponent and opponent testimony, the State Title Administrator Shannon Malone said she received 121 written proponent comments, 1,137 opponent comments and 37 that were neutral. Proponent testimonial themes appreciate that the standards are accurate, comprehensive, engaging and will inspire students to be proud patriotic citizens, she said.

She added, opponent themes include criticisms that there are too many standards, the process was political, the cost for curriculum implementation would be high, age-inappropriate content, includes Christianity ideology and does not include enough Native American content.

Since their proposal, board members discussed the standards for the first time in a public setting.

Board President Terry Nebelsick spoke first and opposed the standards in an extensive oration. He said the adoption of the standards would go against the clear majority of educators in South Dakota who were typically born within 75 miles of the school where they teach. It would also go against the Native American communities which have orchestrated highly attended opposition demonstrations at all four meetings.

Nebelsick denounced the numerous conspiracies of a "progressive agenda" by pointing out the numerous school districts across the state that opposed the standards despite their overwhelming Republican electorate.

Concerning the content of the standards, he feared they would steal the innocence of children in grades one through three by having them learn the brutality of humanity like massacres and wars. Since the standards focus on memorization, he predicts teachers and students will enjoy social studies lessons less. As a result, students will fall behind and teachers will leave the profession or the area.

Nebelsick said those concerns, combined with the millions of dollars it will cost each school district to implement, led him to propose the revision process be picked up where the 2021 working group left off and having the Noem-appointed work group join in the revision. He is very comfortable continuing with the current standards as they do so.

"Those that oppose these standards are the educators that are the sons and daughters of the prairie and Hills of South Dakota and our Native American brothers and sisters," Nebelsick said. "Great teachers know that you need to connect and love not hammer if you want learning to improve. There will be an outward migration of teachers to other professions or other states where their intellect, their commitment and their professionalism is valued."

Linda Olsen, who has lived and taught on the Cheyenne River Reservation for the last 44 years, greatly values Native history and believes there should be better coverage of that history in South Dakota's public schools. She said she believes the newly approved standards are a step in the right direction.

"We really do need to do a better job of incorporating Nakota, Lakota and Dakota history," Olsen said. "I guess I am confused [about widespread Native American opposition] because I feel that the 2022 standards have more Lakota history than previously."

After the 2021 proposed standards were made public, board member Julie Westra said she received several comments by people saying they thought the standards were horrible and needed to be changed. She said she received fewer disapproving comments regarding the 2022 standards.

"I'm also talking as a mom," Westra said. "I have three children, all that have gone to school K-12 and now are in college. We took them to Washington, D.C. 10 years ago, and frankly I was appalled by what they didn't know. All of the monuments, all the museums, it's like they heard of it for the first time, which actually I think is embarrassing. I do feel that we need to change these standards, and I do feel that these are very good."

South Dakota Secretary of Education Joseph Graves said the two-year implementation process is already underway. The process will include history and civics summits held by the state this summer and next summer. The state will form professional development for teachers and include teachers in the selection process of curriculum book previews by the 95 publishers at the request of the state. The state hopes to provide these books to districts to curb the expensive implementation of the new standards. Additionally, Graves claimed the material will not be textbooks but readings books for students to learn social studies during designated reading that will help lessen the time needed to teach social studies.

Though the vote asserts the standards will be implemented in every public school in South Dakota, there is still much work to be done by school boards, administrators and teachers. Malone said the standards are not permanent and may still be revised during the transitional period at the request of the board.
Officials are warning Montanans to keep themselves and their pets away from dead birds, as a bird flu outbreak now in its second year starts to infect more mammals.

In Montana, close to 82,500 domestic birds have been culled from the ongoing outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza, or HPAI, since the state saw its first case in a poultry flock last April.

But on top of the losses for farm-raised birds, the outbreak has also taken a harder toll on wild birds than in years past. Thats led at least 12 mammals in Montana to succumb to the disease, which experts say they likely got from eating infected wild birds.

Its meant a busy year for Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks and the states Veterinary Diagnostic Lab, which are sampling and testing animals to see how the H5N1 strain has spread across species.

According to lab data as of March 31, employees have confirmed one black bear, two grizzly bears, two raccoons, one red fox, and six striped skunks as non-negative for bird flu. The samples are then sent to a national lab in Iowa where they are confirmed positive.

The lab also confirmed the influenza strain in three bald eagles, five turkey vultures, 13 red-tailed hawks, and 21 great horned owls.

The situation is much different than the last time an HPAI outbreak roiled the country, said Erika Schwarz, the clinical veterinary microbiologist whos in charge of leading the bird flu testing for the state lab.

That outbreak, which spanned from December 2014 to June 2015, killed more than 50 million birds across the country. Cases went down as the weather got warmer.

But this time around, animals continued to contract the virus through the summer. A year later, the outbreak has killed 58 million domestic birds in the U.S. and counting, and impacts to wild birds and mammals have been more severe too, Schwarz said.

Montanas lab didnt test mammals for bird flu during the last HPAI outbreak or at start of this one, according to Schwarz.

That changed in October, when Montana officials started hearing of mammals contracting bird flu in other states.

The lab had saved samples from two grizzly bears, and a black bear originally misidentified as a grizzly, who were all euthanized for neurological problems. Originally, officials thought the bears had rabies, but those tests were negative.

Schwarz said a few weeks later, on a whim, the lab thought to test those samples for bird flu and were startled to see them come back positive.

Clinically, the symptoms for rabies and bird flu are the same, Schwarz said. Animals will show signs of neurological distress, like abnormal movements and circling, tremors, seizures, and not fearing humans.

Since the bears, the lab has started to test any animals with those symptoms for both rabies and bird flu.

Its a heavy workload for the labs employees, but Schwarz said theyre trained to handle high amounts of testing. Cases have slowed a little this winter, but theyre expecting them to pick back up again, Schwarz said.

This outbreak and how long its persisted is unusual, Schwarz said. Its left a lot of scientists just baffled.

In the last outbreak, Montana didnt see wild bird die off so there werent infected dead birds on the landscape for other animals to get into, said FWP wildlife veterinarian Jennifer Ramsey. Thats changed now.

Last week, three domestic cats  two in Nebraska and one in Wyoming  contracted the virus after eating wild birds. A dog in Canada died of bird flu the week prior.

Its not something new  mammals have been infected with avian influenza viruses in the past, Ramsey said. We just havent dealt with it to this extent here before. Its concerning.

People should make sure to keep their pets away from dead birds, and always wear gloves if they have to handle a carcass, Ramsey said.

U.S. health officials are monitoring how the virus is changing overtime, Ramsey said. The longer the virus circulates and the more species it infects, the easier it is to mutate.

So far, theres no evidence of the virus spreading from mammal to mammal, which would cause significant concern, Ramsey said. A handful of humans who worked closely with infected birds got the virus in 2022 but recovered.

The threat of mammal to mammal spread was amplified when animals at a Spanish mink fur farm died from bird flu in January. But Schwarz said those animals were in such close proximity to each other, allowing a greater opportunity for the virus to spread quickly through many animals.

When we think about the types of mammals that we see acquiring the virus here, they are mostly solitary or semi-solitary carnivores and mesocarnivores, Schwarz said. So the risk of seeing this kind of rapid mammal-to-mammal spread would probably be quite a bit lower.

People should report any unexplained animal mortalities to FWP, Ramsey said. While the state has limited resources, and tries to focus testing on areas and species where bird flu hasnt been confirmed yet, reports help officials better understand where the virus is.

Cases in mammals have been concentrated in places like Bozeman and Missoula, where there are more people to report mortalities. But thats not to say other parts of the state dont have similar amounts of virus thats going undetected, Ramsey said.

Montana is a very large, rural state if Im sitting here at my desk in Bozeman, I have no idea what somebody may be seeing in another town, Ramsey said. So having those calls and reports is helpful.
Grand Jury declined to indict the Ohio officers because they were under threat when Jayland Walker fired a shot at them

Walker's death in June 2022 triggered rallies in Akron

The cops engaged in the incident were suspended for three months

A grand jury in Ohio has opted not to charge police officers in the murder of Jayland Walker, a 25-year-old Black man who was shot dozens of times by cops during an attempted traffic stop and pursuit last summer in Akron, Ohio, according to the state's attorney general.

Walker died on June 27, 2022, when Akron police attempted to pull him over. Officers chased Walker, first in cars and then on foot, according to footage given by the police.

No Charges Filed Against Cops Who Fatally Shot Jayland Walker

Officers stated that they believed Walker had discharged a firearm from his vehicle and were afraid he might fire again, forcing them to kill him. On Monday, Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost said that Walker fired at least one shot from his automobile at officers.

On the other hand, Walker was unarmed when he was tragically shot by police while on foot. According to the attorney general's office, eight Akron police officers fired 94 bullets at Walker, leaving him with 46 gunshot wounds.

Per NY Times, Yost stated that Walker disobeyed orders to display his hands and halt. The police were unaware that Walker had left his revolver in his car, the attorney general claimed. His death spurred an inquiry by the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Inquiry and protests about racial inequality and police use of force, some of which became violent, causing damage to local businesses, according to Akron police.

Per CNN, the bureau's probe was subsequently turned over to a special prosecutor, who recently submitted the case before a grand jury. The cops can testify before the grand jury under Ohio law, which DiCello claims "favors the officers."

According to Ohio Assistant Attorney General Anthony Pierson, the special grand jury consisted of nine people: three males and six women. For an indictment to be issued in Ohio, at least seven of the nine jurors must vote in favor of the charges, but Yost said they were prohibited by law from discussing the final result.

Walker has no criminal record and worked as a DoorDash and Uber Eats delivery driver. According to the inquiry, a pistol, bullet casing, and gold wedding band were discovered in Walker's vehicle the night of his death.

According to the Akron Beacon Journal, his fiancee, Jaymeisha Beasley, died in a vehicle accident a month before. When questioned if Walker was planning a "suicide by cop" at the time of the incident, Pierson replied there was no clear evidence to support this theory.

Pierson said the investigators from the Ohio Attorney General's office conducted more than 100 interviews and studied footage from over 50 body-worn cameras. They also analyzed pertinent surveillance video, including 25 Ohio Department of Transportation recordings.

Read Also: Marjorie Taylor Greene Mocked for Defending Pentagon Documents Leaker Jack Teixeira

Grand Jury's Decision Sparks New Protests in Ohio

According to Akron Public Schools spokesperson Mark Williamson, all Akron Public Schools will be closed on Tuesday due to the grand jury's decision not to file any state charges against the officers.

Walker's killing sparked protests in the northern Ohio community and reignited discussion over how Black people are treated during ordinary police contact. The NAACP and Walker's family attorney have asked the Justice Department to launch a federal civil rights probe into the shooting. The agency reacted by stating it was keeping an eye on the situation, NBC News reported.

Following property damage caused by last year's protests, numerous Akron businesses boarded windows in anticipation of an announcement on charges against the cops involved. Steel barriers have been erected, and security has recently been heightened outside the Summit County Courthouse. Plywood was used to cover the street-level windows of City Hall.

Akron Police Chief Steve Mylett stated that officers are prepared for protests. If there is violent conduct, police will proclaim an unlawful assembly and issue repeated warnings and routes for individuals to leave, he added.

Related Article: Louisville Bank Shooting: Suspect's Mental Health Issues, Revealed

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A bill that would codify parts of the federal Indian Child Welfare Act into state law passed the Senate on Friday after a contentious discussion on the floor.

Thirty-eight senators voted in support of the bill in the second reading, and 12 were opposed. In the third reading, which also happened Friday, 33 people voted in support and the same 12 senators remained opposed. Because the bill passed the House in a different form, it must first be reconciled before heading to the governors desk.

Known as ICWA, the Indian Child Welfare Act determines how Native children are put in foster or adoptive homes, prioritizing family and tribal placements. The federal law was enacted in 1978 in response to decades of state child welfare and private adoption agencies separating Native children from their families.

House Bill 317, which has received strong public support in its committee hearings, comes as the federal ICWA is under threat. The federal Supreme Court in July will issue a ruling on a case that challenges ICWAs constitutionality. At least 10 other states have codified ICWA into state law, including, most recently, Wyoming. Every tribe in Montana also passed a resolution that supports codifying ICWA into state law.

Brought by Rep. Jonathan Windy Boy, D-Box Elder, HB 317 commits the state to prevent, when possible, out-of-home placements for Native children that are inconsistent with the rights of their parents and the interest of tribes. It prioritizes placements that preserve and honor a childs tribal culture and connections.

The attached amendment sets the termination date for 2025 and outlines contingent voidness, meaning that if the federal court strikes ICWA down in its entirety, the Montana ICWA would become law for two years.

Sen. Jason Small, R-Busby, carried the bill on the Senate Floor, and Windy Boy said the bill wouldve had a tougher go if it was a Democrat who was carrying it. Small, Northern Cheyenne, is one of two Republicans on Montanas American Indian Caucus.

Im glad it went through, but what doesnt surprise me is there will always be a fraction of this body that will never vote a certain way, regardless of what it is, Windy Boy said. This session in particular is so partisan.

Heated floor discussion



Senators discussed the merits of HB 317 for nearly an hour during its second reading.

Small, who introduced the bill, said it was a collaborative effort between experts, leaders and those impacted by the issue.

This boils down to an issue of states rights and its willingness to protect its residents, he said, urging his colleagues to support the bill.

Several Republican senators expressed opposition.

Sen. John Fuller, R-Kalispell, said the bill should be forestalled until the Supreme Court has made a decision. He said ICWA might be or very likely is wrong and unconstitutional. The Supreme Court has not yet issued a ruling on the case, and in 2019, 486 federally recognized tribes and 59 Native organizations filed an amicus brief defending its constitutionality.

Sen. Forrest Mandeville, R-Columbus, spoke of Tony Renova, a 5-year-old Crow child who in 2019 was abused and killed by his biological parents, with whom he was placed under ICWA.

I respect your culture, I really do, he said. But we have to keep the welfare of these children in mind.

Several senators, including Susan Webber, D-Browning, argued that ICWA was put in place to do exactly that.

This bill protects children if theyre taken out of their cultures, said Webber, who is Blackfeet. We have to know who we are. We look in the mirror and were different.

Sen. Shane Morigeau, D-Missoula, said several children had been placed under his mothers care, per ICWA guidelines, and they grew up happy, healthy and became successful.

A tragedy happened, he said in reference to the Renova case. But success of kids staying home in communities with family members, growing up in their communities they know, growing up with role models and family members, learning their culture, knowing their identity, knowing who they are empowers them to be the person we all want them to be when theyre older.

Sen. Ellie Boldman, D-Missoula, said what happened to Renova was a tragedy, and she cited another case in West Yellowstone involving the abuse and murder of a 12-year-old boy from a non-Native family.

The abuse and neglect tragedies, they dont prefer one color or the other, she said.

Sen. Steve Hinebauch, R-Wibaux, said he heard from a proponent in committee that 49% of kids on the reservation are being investigated for child abuse.

Do you think thats true? he asked Small.

Small replied, I cant imagine in this world that half of the families on the reservations are being investigated for anything abusive with their children.

Hinebauch said he would vote no on the bill, arguing that it drives wedges between the two races.

Sen. Jeremy Trebas, R-Great Falls, said he would support the bill if it applied aspects of ICWA to all children in Montana. Sen. Dennis Lenz, R-Billings, brought a bill that does just that, and it unanimously passed the Senate in March.

This policy was passed by Congress, and I get why, Trebas said. I get the history of it, and I think it was good then. But I think it is wreaking havoc on our foster system now.

Webber countered this point and said that ICWA was created for Native families because they are overrepresented in foster care systems. According to the National Indian Child Welfare Association, Indigenous children are four times more likely to be removed by state child welfare systems than non-Native children, even when their families face similar problems. Frank Edwards, an assistant professor at Rutgers University who studies national policies like ICWA, said one of every four Native children in Montana have a lifetime risk of being in foster care.

Sen. Daniel Emrich, R-Great Falls, asked Small if the word Indian was struck from the bill, would he still support it? Small answered that, yes, Lenzs bill applying some ICWA concepts to all children passed the Senate 50-0.

Emrich remained unconvinced.

When I look at stuff like this, a lot of people seem to think its great for the tribes, Emrich said. And that may be the case, but if this is good legislation, if this is a good law, it should not have the word Indian in the legislation.  It doesnt matter what race theyre from. It doesnt matter what culture theyre from, theyre kids.

Sen. Mike Cuffe, R-Eureka, pushed back, saying that without the word Indian, the legislation would be a whole different bill. Cuffe said he would support HB 317.

In his closing, Small reiterated that ICWA has not been found unconstitutional and that the Senate already supported a bill dubbed ICWA for All.

If ICWA wasnt good, why would we include that name in something else? he said. Its a gold standard.  This bill needs a green light. Its good.

When asked if he was surprised by the discussion on the floor regarding his bill, Windy Boy answered, A pass is a pass.
Eggs Up Grill, a popular breakfast, brunch and lunch spot, will open a new location in Midlothian at 12050 Southshore Pointe Drive in the Southshore Shops off Hull Street Road.

This will be the third Eggs Up Grill in the Richmond area. The others are at 2003 Huguenot Road in North Chesterfield and at 2238 John Rolfe Parkway in Henrico County.

All three Eggs Up Grill are franchised by Richmond couple Rob and Karla Thompson. Thompson is a retired naval intelligence officer. He also served four years as the Matoaca District representative for the Chesterfield County School Board.

Along with record growth in Chesterfield County comes lots of hungry neighbors who have been craving another Eggs Up Grill location for the best breakfast, brunch and lunch in town, Thompson said in a news release. Karla and I cannot wait to open this spring, and we thank everyone for your continued support.

The opening date is set for early May.

Eggs Up Grill serves breakfast dishes such as loaded home fries, a Texas farmhouse omelet, and red, white and bacon pancakes with strawberries and powdered sugar. The 3,420-square-foot restaurant will serve guests seven days a week from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Founded in Pawleys Island, South Carolina, Eggs Up Grill now has 62 locations open, mostly on the East Coast in the Carolinas, Georgia, Virginia and Florida.

The Midlothian location will hire up to 20 team members and will begin interviewing candidates this month. Those interested can apply online at eggsupgrill.com.

Richmond-area business expansions, openings and closings Popshelf P.T. Hastings Seafood Killa Dillas Genovas Pizza Station & Take Out Kitchen The Veil Brewing Co.'s new taproom Luxe New American Bar & Grill Wok This Way Eggs Up Grill Mayu Sushi & Thai Maxs on Broad RICH Nail Lounge Sycamore Jewelers, Midlothian Mi Casita Restaurant Ironclad Coffee Grit Coffee Rockler Woodworking and Hardware Boiling Crab Richmond Blue Cow Ice Cream Co. Suzy Sno Diablo Doughnuts RVA The Brass Tap Graybo's Sports Cards Blue Ridge Cyclery BigWife's Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams CarLotz Acacia Midtown Zoom Room Richmond Torchy's Tacos Planet Fitness Raising Canes Chicken Fingers Three Notch'd Brewing Retail or Resell Marshalls Raising Cane's My Favorite Muffin Mattress King Anthony's on the Hill The Mill on MacArthur
Richmond authorities on Monday released the name of the man killed in a shooting Sunday night.

Police were called to the 5600 block of Petoskey Avenue at 8:47 p.m. for a report of someone shot.

Orlando Lee, 42, of Richmond was found in an apartment, police said; he had an apparent gunshot wound and was unresponsive. Lee was pronounced dead at the scene.

The medical examiner will determine the cause and manner of death.

Anyone with information is asked to call police at (804) 646-6739 or Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000.
U.S. Rep. Jennifer McClellan, D-4th, has fired off a letter to AdvanSix, telling the executives of the chemical plant that she wanted answers about the release of harmful materials from its Hopewell facility.

McClellan addressed a letter on Monday to AdvanSix President and CEO Erin Kane and its Hopewell plant manager, Andy Girvin, in the wake of the Richmond Times-Dispatchs report citing violations by the company of the Clean Air Act and Clean Water Act 66 times over the past eight years.

I am deeply concerned that constituents of the Fourth District of Virginia are being subjected to ongoing toxic chemical releases, with serious health implications, McClellan said in the letter. As the facility is located within a mile of over 900 homes, these repeated violations put the Hopewell community at unacceptable risk of increased morbidity and mortality.

In her letter, McClellan asked AdvanSix to show how it will change its operations to avoid future clean air and clean water violations and how the company will work with the Environmental Protection Agency and the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality to comply with federal and state regulations.

McClellan also urged AdvanSix to address the environmental impacts of the chemical releases, as well as increase transparency and improve communication with the Hopewell community.

She questioned the impact on the health of nearby local residents. Notably, the life expectancy in Hopewell is more than five years lower than the average in Virginia. The cancer mortality rate is almost double the state average, and the rate of hospitalization for asthma is three times the norm, McClellan added.

A spokesperson for AdvanSix issued a statement after McClellans letter was made public.

It said the company had been in contact with McClellans office, adding that AdvanSix was committed to being a responsible environmental steward, good neighbor and active partner with local officials, regulatory agencies and our communities, and that it has been transparent with federal and state agencies.

She also said the company took issue with some of the violations cited in the article, and that the company had self-reported some of the ones cited in The Times-Dispatch report.

The statement further added, AdvanSix has regular interactions with its regulatory agencies  when an agency does provide us with a finding, we take prompt action to address it and implement mitigations, and we use it as an opportunity to improve our practices and procedures and fulfill our commitment to responsible environmental stewardship.

We are not aware of any significant impact to the environment or risk to human health as a result of the operation of our plant, it read in part.

Concetta Manker, Hopewells interim city manager, announced earlier this month that the city plans to work with the EPA and the DEQ to investigate the violations, as well as help AdvanSix become compliant.

McClellan previously sent a letter to Kane regarding the approximately 340 AdvanSix employees who went on strike April 6. The four unions involved in the strike were looking for better pay and increased schedule flexibility from the company.

Similar to her letter supporting the striking AdvanSix employees who worked around hazardous materials, McClellan also voiced support for Hopewell residents who face health risks from the chemicals. McClellan noted the reduced life expectancy in the city.

It is the right of every Hopewell resident to breathe clean air, drink clean water, and live a healthy life, McClellan concluded. I await your response on the steps you will take to address impacts of previous toxic chemical releases and to prevent future violations of environmental regulations.

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The Richmond Planning Commission unanimously voted Monday to recommend that the City Council repeal its minimum parking requirements.

Kevin Vonck, the citys director of planning and development review, presented the proposal with the request that the commission vote to recommend the city eliminate the minimum number of off-street vehicular parking spaces required for all uses in all districts.

Parking minimums require multifamily housing and businesses to provide a set number of off-street parking spaces in order to ensure homeowners and workers have a place for cars.

If the city votes to approve the ordinance repeal, the department will no longer monitor the number of spaces, if at all, that a business provides.

It is getting the city out of the business of regulating specifically what youre building, Vonck said. For instance, you can build a residential property in this district. We dont tell you how many bedrooms to put in.

The decision came after numerous residents came forward, as well as submitted letters, in varying degrees of support, opposition and anywhere in between.

Those in favor of eliminating parking minimums argue that while practical in theory, they are not realistic in practice. Often, developers are required to build more parking spaces than there are occupants, which leads to parking lots sitting empty and parking decks left with their higher levels bare.

Likewise, Vonck emphasized that if the city decides to eliminate its minimums, it does not mean the businesses will stop providing parking spaces.

Over the past five years, the city has approved 50 large-scale residential, commercial and mixed-use projects. In total, the city required 4,789 spaces. The developers provided 12,646.

Developers are looking at the market; they are looking at who is potentially going to rent, Vonck said. And theyre providing parking as they feel appropriate.

First District representative Andreas Addison, who sponsored the ordinance repeal, has been outspoken about his support for the elimination of the minimums, arguing it will allow for higher-density neighborhoods, better access to public transit and more affordable housing.

The hope is that, with developers no longer tasked with constructing lots or parking garages, there will be more room to build additional housing units, ultimately increasing the citys available housing stock.

Likewise, those in favor argue it will lead to lower rent costs.

In order to build and keep up with construction demands for parking lots and decks, developers rely on higher rent payments to cover costs. With lower costs, developers will not charge higher rents.

According to Vonck, the average cost of constructing a parking lot in the city can range from $9,000 to $41,000. In a 2016 study published by the University of California, Los Angeles, buildings that have parking garages charge 17% more in rent each month than those that do not.

We are not reinventing the wheel here. These are things that are being done in other cities and they have done well and, in order to remain competitive, I think its really wise to move us into that direction, said Joh Gehlbach, vice president of government affairs for the Richmond Association of Realtors. We are in full support of repealing parking minimums.

The elimination of parking minimums also aligns with the citys RVAGreen 2050 sustainability plan.

The plan, adopted earlier this year, serves as a guidebook for the city as it navigates policy and development decisions. As the city inches closer to zero carbon emissions, there is a strong push to develop adequate public transit and create more green spaces.

By requiring developers to construct large patches of asphalt for vehicle owners, the city is eliminating potential green spaces. With these minimums largely affecting mixed-use development corridors, the goal is to increase public transit to these areas.

Those in opposition argue it will do the exact opposite, citing that the city is not ready to eliminate its minimums.

While other cities like Philadelphia, New York City and Atlanta do not have parking minimums, they also have better access to public transportation either through a subway system or mass transit.

According to Patricia Merrill, president of the Westhampton Citizens Association, many in the city depend on automobiles and eliminating minimums will result in congested streets and neighborhoods.

The City of Richmond does not have adequate alternatives to automobile use by individuals, whether they live within or outside the city, to travel to and from their jobs, stores, restaurants and other locations, Merrill stated in a letter of opposition submitted to the Planning Commission.

Additionally, Merrill said it isnt fair to adopt a one-size-fits-all approach to all minimum parking requirements.

The city is set to hear the resolution to repeal the ordinance at its 6 p.m. Monday meeting in which citizens will have an opportunity to speak in favor or opposition before a final vote is taken.
FAIRFAX  A grand jury has refused to indict a former Northern Virginia police officer after he fatally shot an unarmed shoplifting suspect outside a busy shopping mall in February.

Authorities presented the case to a grand jury for an indictment against Wesley Shifflett, who shot and killed Timothy McCree Johnson, 37, outside Tysons Corner Center on Feb. 22.

Fairfax County Commonwealths Attorney Steve Descano  who ran for office on a reform agenda that included holding police accountable for misdeeds  had called a news conference Monday, presumably to announce criminal charges.

But the noon news conference was first delayed, then canceled. Later in the day, Descano issued a statement saying hes evaluating all options following the grand jurys decision.

Since, by law, no prosecutors were permitted to be present in the room when the investigating officers made their presentation to the grand jury, I cant say for sure what information was conveyed to the grand jurors, Descano said.

The shooting occurred after Shifflett and another Fairfax County police officer chased Johnson on foot from the mall after receiving a report from security guards that Johnson had stolen sunglasses from a Nordstrom department store.

Dimly lit body camera video shows the chase and the shooting. The officer is heard saying Get on the ground and later saying stop reaching as shots are fired. After the shooting, Shifflett tells another officer that he saw Johnson continually reaching in his waistband.

A search of the grounds after the shooting turned up no weapons.

Shiffletts lawyer, Caleb Kershner, praised the grand jury for its decision.

The grand jury has seen this case for exactly what it is, Kershner said.

Kershner said Johnsons death is a tragedy but that his client acted reasonably when he believed he saw Johnson reaching for a weapon in his waistband.

Shifflett was fired last month for what Fairfax County Police Chief Kevin Davis called a failure to live up to the expectations of our agency, in particular use of force policies.

A lawyer for Johnsons family likened the shooting to an execution. Johnsons mother, Melissa Johnson, said officers shot her son when all they knew at the time was that he was Black and male and had allegedly triggered an alarm from a store for some sunglasses.

The Johnson familys lawyer, Carl Crews, declined comment Monday on the grand jurys decision.

Descano, in his statement, said he had contacted Johnsons family Monday morning and told them he expected an indictment.

So I can only imagine their pain and shock when they received the news that the officer  who shot and killed their unarmed son  was not indicted, he said.

Defense lawyer Kershner said it would be vindictive and almost anti-police if Descano were to try to obtain an indictment from a different grand jury.

The grand jury, thank God, did the right thing, and the commonwealths attorneys office now has to accept that, he said.

From the Archives: Richmond Police Mounted Unit
A Spotsylvania County man charged in connection with the December overdose death of a 6-year-old girl was denied bond Monday.

Jonathan Copenhaver, 37, was in Spotsylvania Circuit Court seeking to reverse prior bond denials. He and the child's mother, Cera Harper, are both being held in the Rappahannock Regional Jail on two counts of child neglect and possession of illegal drugs.

The child was found dead the morning of Dec. 16 at the home of Harper and Copenhaver on Sunburst Lane. A medical examiner determined that her cause of death was fentanyl poisoning.

Defense attorney Alex Raymond on Monday tried to shift the blame away from Copenhaver. He said that Copenhaver left the home the previous night after getting into an argument with Harper.

He said the child was fine when he left. "He left the child alone with her mother and he doesn't know how she got into any drugs," Raymond said.

He said Copenhaver is not a flight risk and has not been convicted of a crime since 2008.

Prosecutor Susie Brock said fentanyl tablets and methamphetamines were found during a search of the home and argued that Copenhaver's night away does not absolve him of responsibility.

Brock said there was a 5-month-old child in the home as well who fortunately was not capable of getting into drugs that had been "carelessly" left out.

Judge Ricardo Rigual denied the bond request.
Sixteen years ago, a Virginia Tech student shot and killed 32 fellow students, faculty and staff members in the deadliest school shooting in U.S. history. The tragedy on April 16, 2007, traumatized Virginia Tech community members and exposed enormous vulnerabilities on college campuses. The Virginia Tech massacre also proved a wellspring of reform, strengthening threat assessment efforts across the state and distinguishing Virginias violence prevention system as a national model.

Like many Virginians, I was personally affected by the Virginia Tech shootings. That day, my father-in-law, a beloved professor and dean, was working in his office on the third floor of Techs engineering building, Norris Hall, where the shooter headed after killing two students in a residence hall. Around 11 a.m., a university-wide email stated that shootings with multiple victims had occurred in that building. We repeatedly called my father-in-law, with no response, waiting anxiously into the afternoon. Finally, he connected with his wife, telling her that a SWAT team had ushered him and his colleagues out of Norris Hall.

Then-Virginia Gov. Tim Kaine declared a state of emergency and three days later called for a comprehensive review of the tragedy. He asked a panel to conduct an independent, thorough and objective incident review of the tragedy at Virginia Tech and to make recommendations regarding improvements that can be made in the commonwealths laws, policies, procedures, systems and institutions.

In August 2007, the Virginia Tech Review Panel released a 147-page report that listed findings in several areas, including law enforcement, emergency operations, communication with campus and families, gun policies and behavioral health. The report provided a timeline of events and a detailed biography of the shooter, from his childhood to the moment he killed himself at Norris Hall. It described how during his time at Virginia Tech, his disturbing behavior and creative writings drew the attention of officials and faculty in various offices and departments.

Virginia Tech faculty and staff members obviously cared deeply about their students and their campus. Many people interviewed, however, mistakenly believed that privacy laws prevented them from sharing information with one another.

One of the review panels key conclusions about the shooters personal history was the following: No one knew all the information, and no one connected all the dots.

A year later, the General Assembly passed legislation mandating violence prevention and threat assessment on college campuses, identifying officials best positioned to know and share important information about potential threats. The state offered free campus threat assessment trainings through the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services, which continue today. In 2013, Virginia became the nations first state to require all public-school divisions to create and support violence prevention processes. Last November, after the shootings at the University of Virginia left three student-athletes dead, campus threat assessment once again attracted statewide attention, gaining bipartisanship support for mandating that teams have access to criminal and health records and disclose concerning information to police.

Under the direction of these laws, my colleagues and I reorganized into teams across our fields of expertise: counseling services, residence life, student affairs, academic affairs, law enforcement, human resources and legal services. Today, we meet regularly to evaluate potential threats across the spectrum: violent writings, aberrant behavior, messages posted on campus, troubling outbursts toward classmates or professors. When a student concern proves particularly pressing, we often contact the parents, recognizing that they know their child best and are typically eager to help. Campus threat assessment teams evaluate possible threats from employees and community members as well.

Does threat assessment actually prevent violence? Yes. Research on both planned and executed mass shootings shows that most individuals aiming to do harm communicate their intentions through social media, creative writings and conversations with friends and family members. The intent essentially leaks out before any action is taken, and its in sharing this leakage where we might intervene. In my experience, even in the absence of potential violence, threat assessment often highlights behavioral problems affecting a students experience and community.

As we engage in this work, memories of April 16, 2007, are rarely far from our minds. Of course, some recommendations from the 2007 review panel remain unrealized, such as improving the states mental health care system. Recent legislative agendas have recognized this particular challenge, and in late 2022, the administration of Gov. Glenn Youngkin proposed the three-year plan, Right Help, Right Now, to transform the behavioral health care system. It could be the latest reform to help us build upon the valuable work of threat assessment teams in caring for our students.

Whether supporting student health or intervening when someone intends to cause harm, threat assessment strengthens our mission to produce graduates who are ready and equipped for post-university lives and careers. And our campuses are better for it.

From the Archives: The James River James River James River James River James River James River James River James River James River
As Virginians, we have much to be proud of. We tout the fact that our country can trace its origins here to Jamestown, that we have produced more presidents than any other state and that our legislature and governor typically operate in a less partisan manner than other bodies across the country.

Despite many ups and downs on our shared Virginia journey, the past several months have been an embarrassment. After significant strides were made in bringing our commonwealths voting scheme into the 21st century with the Voting Rights Act of Virginia and other companion legislation, Republicans in the General Assembly filed, voted on and passed numerous bills to walk back the work that skyrocketed Virginia from 49th to 12th in ballot access. Thankfully, a Democratic majority in the state Senate preserved the positive work accomplished under former Gov. Ralph Northam.

But the story doesnt end there. Just a few weeks ago, Gov. Glenn Youngkins administration altered the policy and considerations under which felons could have their voting rights restored and slowed restorations to a crawl. Disappointingly, Virginia is the only state in which a felony fully disenfranchises a person and the sole authority to restore their rights lies with the governor. Until Gov. Youngkins reversal under the cover of darkness, previous Republican and Democratic governors had dramatically expanded the restoration process and done so in an open, transparent manner.

Then a recent report from Buckingham County recounted that the entire registrar office staff quit amid harassment from the local electoral board and residents who promote former President Donald Trumps Big Lie that the 2020 election was improperly stolen (a claim which is without any merit). The departures left the rural jurisdiction with no way to register to vote or certify candidate paperwork just before the filing deadline. This is not only a shock to the system, but also completely undermines our democratic processes.

All of these instances leave a stain on Virginias reputation as a place that embraces democracy and encourages participation in our electoral process. I have family members who can tell stories of being denied the right to vote only a few decades ago. I was proud to vote for electoral reforms in 2020 and 2021 in the legislature because I knew my ancestors had given blood, sweat and tears during their lifetimes to achieve these small measures of progress.

Still, if Gov. Youngkin intends to take us backward, he needs to publicly state his standards for restoration, explain the changes and share what drove the policy change. I pray there is nothing nefarious behind his decision, but we all remain in the dark until he tells Virginians why he changed the policy. Transparency remains critical in every aspect of government, and voters across Virginia are owed an explanation for his covert action.

Moreover, our attorney general must step in to rectify the situation in Buckingham  immediately. When I sought my partys nomination for attorney general in 2021, I proposed a Voter Protection and Election Integrity Unit for this very purpose. Virginians need to know that not only are our elections secure, but also that our election officials can operate without fear of harassment or intimidation. We should all be troubled that the attorney general has not reassured us that our electoral processes remain safe. What happened in Buckingham can happen elsewhere without intervention and proper leadership.

Unfortunately, we are also saddled with a House of Delegates that holds a regressive view of voting. Republican legislators purportedly profess support for second chances, but remain silent as the governor punishes residents well after theyve paid their debt to society. Moreover, many Republicans tell advocates and constituents that they support an easier process to restore voting rights but stand idly by as their colleagues kill bills to remove the governors authority to determine who gets to vote. Virginians deserve courageous legislators who arent afraid to buck their party when the going gets tough.

The right to vote makes our country special  it is sacred and not to be taken for granted. Although we all make mistakes along the way, faith, compassion and a commitment to an inclusive process should carry the day.

Virginia should proudly lead in every facet of voting, from election administration to access to the ballot. Absent action from our current set of elected leaders, we can only regain our place at the front of the pack by voting for individuals who will stand up amid the noise and put our voices  Virginias voices  first.

Close 05-31-1971 (cutline): Voting Machines destined for Henrico Polling booths are unloaded. 10-29-1964 (cutline): Getting ready for election. 11-03-1989 (cutline): Youth Poll--Students at Ratcliffe Elementary School in Henrico County lined up to take part in a mock election yesterday. A school official monitored polling, which was done on school computers. The real election for governor, lieutenant governor and attorney general is Tuesday. 11-02-1971: Walter C. Lewis, precinct worker explains procedure of voting machine to Raymond L. Redd. 11-06-1973 (cutline): Voters received lapel pins after making their choices at the ballot box. Pins were distributed at city precincts by the Richmond Jaycees. 12-16-1952 (cutline): They decide on Eisenhower--Presidental electors cast Virginia's 12 votes for General Eisenhower. 03-08-1988: Voting booth at City Hall precinct during presidental primary. 11-03-1948 (cutline): A long night of waiting--A crowd (above) hears announcer read election results at a Republican party last night at the Hotel John Marshall after Truman had started to forge ahead in early returns. Score board totals indicate the Virginia trend. 10-02-1969 (cutline): Billie Holloman spots a 'help wanted' sign in a pharmacy here today. The notice responds to yesterday's announcement by a group of ex-Democrats. 09-14-1971 (cutline): Voting Activity Slow Here-- There wasn't a great deal of voting activity reported in the Richmond area during the early hours of today's Democratic primary elections. Officials at voting precinct 73, located at Dick Strauss Ford on Belt Boulevard, were on duty early in the morning awaiting the voter turnout. Mrs. Frances Shaw, an election official there, reported it was 10:35 a.m. before the first voter arrived to cast a ballot. 11-05-1980 (cutline): Jubilant merrymaker holds aloft words Republicans wanted to see. GOP supporters celebrated at party at Hotel John Marshall. 08-03-1949: Mr. John Thomas Martin casts his ballot. 11-07-1972 (cutline): Voters prepare to cast their ballots at city precinct 10 in fire house at 28th and 'Q' Streets. From the Archives: Voting in Richmond Interested in a copy of any of these photos? Click here. 05-31-1971 (cutline): Voting Machines destined for Henrico Polling booths are unloaded. 10-29-1964 (cutline): Getting ready for election. 11-03-1989 (cutline): Youth Poll--Students at Ratcliffe Elementary School in Henrico County lined up to take part in a mock election yesterday. A school official monitored polling, which was done on school computers. The real election for governor, lieutenant governor and attorney general is Tuesday. 11-02-1971: Walter C. Lewis, precinct worker explains procedure of voting machine to Raymond L. Redd. 11-06-1973 (cutline): Voters received lapel pins after making their choices at the ballot box. Pins were distributed at city precincts by the Richmond Jaycees. 12-16-1952 (cutline): They decide on Eisenhower--Presidental electors cast Virginia's 12 votes for General Eisenhower. 03-08-1988: Voting booth at City Hall precinct during presidental primary. 11-03-1948 (cutline): A long night of waiting--A crowd (above) hears announcer read election results at a Republican party last night at the Hotel John Marshall after Truman had started to forge ahead in early returns. Score board totals indicate the Virginia trend. 10-02-1969 (cutline): Billie Holloman spots a 'help wanted' sign in a pharmacy here today. The notice responds to yesterday's announcement by a group of ex-Democrats. 09-14-1971 (cutline): Voting Activity Slow Here-- There wasn't a great deal of voting activity reported in the Richmond area during the early hours of today's Democratic primary elections. Officials at voting precinct 73, located at Dick Strauss Ford on Belt Boulevard, were on duty early in the morning awaiting the voter turnout. Mrs. Frances Shaw, an election official there, reported it was 10:35 a.m. before the first voter arrived to cast a ballot. 11-05-1980 (cutline): Jubilant merrymaker holds aloft words Republicans wanted to see. GOP supporters celebrated at party at Hotel John Marshall. 08-03-1949: Mr. John Thomas Martin casts his ballot. 11-07-1972 (cutline): Voters prepare to cast their ballots at city precinct 10 in fire house at 28th and 'Q' Streets.
Halfway through this month, Richmond is having one of its 10 warmest Aprils on record  about 5.5 degrees warmer than average, but a shift to cooler air is around the corner.

The rest of this week will bring temperatures either near or above average, as afternoons reach the 80s again before this weekend. No rain is expected until then, as a few rounds of showers and thunderstorms over the weekend will signal the shift away from the warmth of the past few weeks.

The precise timing of showers and potential thunderstorms has not been ironed out yet, although early data suggests they move through between Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon.

Although next week will certainly be cooler, it does not look especially cold for the end of April. Afternoon temperatures next week will average in the 60s with daybreak temperatures in the 40s.

A late season freeze is not expected, but a couple of nights in the 30s are likely, which could translate into some patches of frost, especially in suburban and rural areas away from central Richmond.

The change comes with a broad, spinning area of low pressure in the middle atmosphere, several hundred miles north of Virginia. Winds around that circulation are counterclockwise, leading to a more consistent wind from the west or northwest next week, and tapping some cooler air from the Great Lakes and the Midwest.

Once these circulations develop, they often break away from the main flow of the jet stream, so they tend to persist for several days before being swept away. They also send weak disturbances spinning off from them, so there will be a few chances to pick up some rain next week.

Because the winds will be from the west or northwest, there will be no air advancing into Virginia from the Gulf of Mexico, so a prolonged soaking rain is not forecast next week. More likely, there will be a couple of cloudy days mixed in next week with occasional light rain, but nothing that adds up to much more than a quarter of an inch. On those cloudier days with showers next week, afternoons may hold in the 50s, so it is still too early to pack away jackets for the summer.

Richmond is also quietly having its sixth-driest start to the year on record, with less than 8 inches of rain since the first of the year. In fact, the temperature and precipitation so far this year are both very similar to this point in 2012.

That year went on to become the hottest year on record in Richmond with an average temperature of 61.1 degrees, about 3 degrees higher than the average over the last hundred years. We have gotten used to it being warm; the last year that was cooler than the hundred-year average was 2003.

We have had some dry spells in recent years that went on for a few months, but Virginia has not been in a serious drought since 2010-11. Even after a dry spring in 2012, the rain picked up in June and July, holding off a serious drought before it was finally erased at the start of 2013.

Last year was also drier than average, but not terribly so, with Richmond getting 90% of its average precipitation for the year. Its been more than 20 years since back-to-back years that were drier than average: 2001-02.

In the broad sense, we expect Virginia to be wetter in a warming climate. The data of the past 20 years emphasizes that point.

Nonetheless, it is still too early to draw direct comparisons about how the rest of this year will play out, although there are some modest indications of a summer that will be warmer and wetter than average in Virginia.

But if you are looking forward to a cooler stretch, next week will be for you.

From the Archives: The James River James River James River James River James River James River James River James River James River
The FBI arrests two individuals in connection with a suspected secret Chinese police station hidden in New York

The hidden outpost was thought to have been operating in the area's Chinatown

Federal officials believe that the secret police station was created to intimidate Chinese dissidents who were living in the United States

On Monday, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) arrested two people believed to have conspired to act as agents of the Chinese government at a remote police station hidden in Manhattan, New York.

Officials believe that the two men used the secret police station to intimidate Chinese dissidents living in the United States and working on behalf of the People's Republic of China (RPC).

Secret Chinese Police Station in New York

Authorities also charged other people in two unrelated cases; one was against 34 Chinese police officers who are believed to have harassed Chinese nationals living in the New York area. The second is against eight Chinese officials facing accusations of directing a US-based tech company employee who sought to remove dissidents from the platform, per the New York Times.

Court papers said that Chinese security officials were running the Manhattan outpost, which was only one of over 100 Chinese police operations worldwide. These stations worked to unnerve diplomats and intelligence officials in various nations.

The recent case marks the first time that criminal charges have been raised about one such Chinese police outpost. Furthermore, the charges against the two arrested individuals, 61-year-old Lu Jianwang and 59-year-old Chen Jinping followed an FBI and US Attorney's Office in Brooklyn investigation.

In a statement, the US attorney in Brooklyn, Breon S. Peace, said that the newly-revealed charges responded to the PRC that the United States was aware of what they were doing. He argued that they would work on stopping these efforts from occurring in the US.

Read Also: Kevin McCarthy Faces Skepticism Among GOP Over Proposed SNAP Cuts

Intimated Chinese Dissidents

Despite the allegations, Chinese authorities have denied any responsibility for the secret police stations in the United States, calling the outposts "service centers" meant for nationals living overseas, according to BBC.

On Monday, the US Department of Justice said the two individuals established the first overseas police station on US soil on behalf of Beijing's Ministry of Public Security. The establishment was later forced to close in the autumn of 2022, said the DOJ, after the people involved with the station became aware of the FBI investigation.

The acting assistant director of the FBI's Counterintelligence Division, Kurt Ronnow, said that the situation was "outrageous" because China's Ministry of Public Security was trying to get away with establishing a secret police station in Manhattan, New York.

He argued that the hidden outpost was created amid Beijing's efforts to export repression and subvert the rule of law. He added that this case was a reminder that the PRC would do anything to bend people to its will, even forcefully, said CBS News.

Related Article: Marjorie Taylor Greene Mocked for Defending Pentagon Documents Leaker

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Governor presents comprehensive mobility plan for state

Riviera Maya, Q.R.  Governor Mara Lezama says a new comprehensive mobility plan for the state has been delivered. The new plan was presented Monday to legislative deputies in Mexico City during the Mobility and Well-being Forum.

Lezama says the new mobility plan included lanes with vehicle restrictions and the installation of security cameras inside public transport units. She says she is hoping the new plan will solve some of the problems faced by the main cities in terms of mobility.

This comprehensive plan, which includes a mobility law, contemplates the creation of adequate roads with lane restrictions and cycle paths, she said adding that the regulation of digital platforms is also on the list, but the the installation of cameras in public transport units is being given priority due to the amount of violent incidences against women.

Lezama added that a network of bike paths that are being developed around the state in conjunction with the Maya Train project, is also part of the mobility plan.
Partial loss of gear creates rough landing for Guatemala flight after leaving Cancun International

Flores, Guatemala  Ejercito Guatemala reported on the rough landing of a plane in Flores after leaving Cancun. The small plane that was carrying 14 passengers and three crew skidded into a field after experiencing landing gear issues.

According to information from the Guatemalan Army (Ejercito Guatemala), the aircraft, owned by TAG Airlines, lost part of its landing gear when descending to the airstrip. Due to the loss of the part, the plane ended up skidding off the runway and into a green area.

Army Spokesperson Ruben Tellez revealed that it was during the landing maneuver that the incident occurred, leaving the plane stranded in the undergrowth of the airstrip Sunday morning.

Elements of the Northern Air Command of the Guatemalan Air Force went to the site. No injuries were reported. On social media, Tag Airlines confirmed the flight happened on a direct from Cancun International to Flores.

The plane ended up in a field after losing a piece of landing gear. Photo: Ejercito Guatemala April 16, 2023.

Ejercito Guatemala posted through the Northern Air Command, they assisted in the evacuation and transferred to a safe place, the passengers of a private airline which presented damage to the landing gear.
My initial impression of the film Jesus Revolution was a simple one, albeit a bit self-centered from a Gen-Z movie reviewer:

This isnt a Gen-Z movie.

Rife with bell-bottom jeans, hippie culture, and portrayals of anti-government angst, the film tells the origin story of the Jesus movement of the 1960s and 70s, particularly the growth and struggle of the West Coast evangelical group known as Calvary Chapel. If youre old enough to remember the 1960s and 70s, youll find Lionsgates upbeat new film Jesus Revolution to be a walk down memory lane, writes Kathy Schiffer for National Catholic Registerand the overwhelming amount of decidedly not-Gen-Z moviegoers in my theater clearly concurred.

Yet, by the films end, it was clear that my initial impression was completely wrong: This is a movie Gen-Z should definitely see, and perhaps now more than ever. In the wake of revival controversies inspired by Asbury, this is the follow-up my generation needs. It answers the question that Asbury raised: Whats the fate of religious movements built on emotion?

The Jesus movement depicted in Revolution is one formed by the tension between an old-fashioned Calvary Chapel church in Costa Mesa, Southern California, and the broken, wild-eyed, but sincere hippies Calvary Chapel feels unable to reach. Jonathan Roumie shines as the dynamic but tortured hippie Lonnie Frisbee, in stark contrast to decidedly traditional pastor Chuck Smith (Kelsey Grammer). Through an unlikely meeting during which Frisbee explains his passion for sharing the Gospel (dubbed the good news) with his fellow hippies, Smith overcomes his skepticism of Frisbees unorthodox ways and opens Calvary to the hippie community. At the same time, the film follows the steps of young outcast and wannabe hippie Greg Laurie (Joel Courtney), who gets pulled into the new Calvary Chapel movement by his love interest (Anna Grace Barlow) and eventually rises to become one of the most successful preachers in the Jesus movement.

Although the first third of the movie can feel exposition-heavy, the plot balances itself as the Jesus movement starts to spread throughout California. The movie pulls few punches about the substance abuse of the hippies converted by Calvary Chapel or the problems faced by the main characters, including Lauries abandonment issues and Frisbees erratic temperament and power trips (although his noted struggles with homosexuality make little, if any, appearance in the story). Through Smiths leadership and Frisbees charisma, Calvary Chapel expands exponentially, outgrowing its building and spurring a cultural movement that captivated American Christians and seekers on a national level. Although Frisbee ultimately leaves for Florida over creative differences, Laurie takes over from Smith and goes on to help grow the Jesus movement, becoming one of the most influential preachers in the nation and maintaining a successful ministry to this day. The Calvary Chapel movement would expand far beyond Lauries own congregation, currently fueling more than 1,800 ministries worldwide.

Yet the fate of characters like Laurie illustrates why Revolution is such a crucial film for our current moment and generation. When the film begins, Laurie is a high schooler too full of wanderlust for a life highlighted by JROTC. He starts his journey with no interest in Christianity, attracted more by the ecstatic high (and romantic appeal) of the hippies being drawn to Calvary Chapel. Through a series of worship encounters, along with the sober reality of witnessing a drug overdose at one of the films many parties, Lauries burgeoning passion for the Jesus movement goes on to propel him into the spotlight of the revolution taking over his world.

The rest of Frisbees drug enthusiast hippie cadre, however, dont so much follow him into Smiths conservative church looking for better theology or a morally high-horsed lecture (the movie as a whole is remarkably low on preachiness), but for a loving group of Christians willing to incorporate them into a community. There is a generation right now searching for God  sheep without a shepherd, Frisbee tells Smith early in the film. And the door of your church is shut.

The Calvary Chapel that follows grows by the enthusiasm and dynamism of the hippie movementsome might even call it a revival. Yet what happened to that passion when it came time to build a stable institution that would survive passing fads? The psychedelic-fueled quest for meaning eventually faded, and the enthusiasm behind the initial Jesus Revolution changed. This is the message of Revolution: The passion for discipleship had to become more methodical, concrete. It couldnt stay nebulous and free-form, not if the movement was to last. Emotion and dynamism create communities, yet building the structures capable of carrying that community forward so it would be open to the next generation takes something more.

In the end, Jesus Revolution is a Gen Z movie. Generation Z epitomizes the sheep without a shepherd that drive the plot of the film: Theyre desperately searching for meaning yet increasingly unmoored from any institutions capable of providing it. Like the hippies of Laurie and Frisbees day, were chasing after religious sparks due to disenchantment with traditional religious communities. Religious enthusiasm like what was seen at Asbury pique our interest just like the Jesus movement did in the 1970s. Yet, if you found Asbury intriguing, Jesus Revolution is the perfect follow-up: True religious growth isnt ultimately about one-off student revivals of the present day any more than it was about the psychedelics of the 60s. Its about channeling the passion of the heart into stable communities of faith (presumably orthodox or traditional faith) that last longer than an emotional thrill or acid trip. Revolution isnt about ridiculing religious enthusiasmits about how enthusiasm translates to action.
Last month we took a test drive of ChatGPT, an artificial-intelligence robot that composes essays. Its splendid with grammar but lousy with facts. Among key details it flubbed were that the 10-seat counter at the Texas Taverns counter is U-shaped (its straight), and The Roanoke Times has won several Pulitzer Prizes. (The actual number is zero.)

Anyway, artificial intelligence has myriad applications. One for which you might be unaware is parking in downtown Roanoke. Thats occurring at more than 20 privately owned commercial lots spread over the citys center  the ones formerly owned by Nashville, Tennessee-based Premier Parking.

Another company, Metropolis.io, merged with Premier Parking a year ago. Funded by venture capitalists, the new companys reach spreads from the West Coast to the East. It controls hundreds of parking garages and more than 130,000 parking spaces. Various news accounts have described Metropolis as an AI-powered autonomous commerce platform.

Metropolis allows users to register their parking experience with their phones, rather than using kiosks, which are still in at least some of the companys lots.

But Corrine Casella of Roanoke doesnt think much of the systems artificial smarts. Thats because Metropolis dinged her $70 for two hours of parking on a recent Sunday afternoon, when Casella thought she was paying $7.

After I contacted Metropolis on her behalf, a manager for the company told me the $70 charge was erroneous, and it would issue Casella a refund because of the glitch. (By then, the company had already twice denied her appeals.)

Judging by social media and complaints posted to the Better Business Bureaus website, shes not the only aggrieved parker whos been dinged that way by Metropolis.

Casella reached out to me after she posted a warning on NextDoor.com about what had happened to her, while she, her daughter and her grandson took in an April 2 matinee of Jersey Boys at Mill Mountain Theater.

Arriving downtown for the 2 p.m. show, they couldnt find on-street or garage parking that afternoon, so they drove around downtown until they found an empty space in the Nickel Lot between Williamson Road and Market Street, off Church Avenue.

As instructions there indicated, Casella aimed her smartphone at the QR code on a sign in the lot, got to the companys website and registered on it. She inputted the tag number of her daughters vehicle, and the payment method (Casellas debit card number).

The robot responded by texting a message to Casellas phone at 1:49 p.m. It included a six-digit authentication code and the message, Welcome to Nickel Lot, powered by Metropolis. Just drive out to end your visit.

Two hours later, near the end of Jersey Boys, another text from Metropolis popped up on Casselas phone. This one was time-stamped 3:49 p.m.

It read: Metropolis Parking: Your payment did not go through. Please update your credit card information here to pay for your visit. The text included a link.

When they returned to the lot around 4 p.m. there was a $70 ticket on her daughters vehicle. It wasnt a city-issued parking ticket  which one can take to court  but rather a private citation Metropolis imposed for nonpayment at the Nickel Lot. (Private-lot parking fines, which are not illegal in Roanoke, vary depending on the lot.)

It would have been cheaper to risk parking overtime on the street, because the most common city-imposed parking fine is $20.

Via her phone, Casella attempted to dispute the fine with Metropolis. But an employee named Joseph T informed her thusly in a reply email:

We have investigated the details of your visit and the associated violation, and based on our review of the data from our systems, your violation dispute has been denied. In further reviewing your visit, it indicates that you did not pay for your parking visit.

 To avoid any additional fees, please submit payment for your violation at Metropolis Payments by the due date printed on your violation.

Later, Casella wrote on NextDoor, From what I understand they keep adding late fees that can add up to a $1,000  then send it to a collection agency. She wanted to avoid that potential hassle.

In a follow-up email, Joseph T. offered her a 50% discount on future parking with Metropolis, but she doubted shed take up that officer.

Seven dollars is the full-day rate, Casella said. Ive already paid for what, seven additional parking experiences? She noted the monthly charge for the lot is $80.

Her original post on NextDoor generated more than 80 replies. Some respondents recommended she hire a lawyer to handle the $70 dispute. Others suggested she reach out to me, which she did. Two other respondents said they had been similarly dinged, recently, after they tried to pay at the companys lots. One of those ended up getting the fine waived.

The other, Joe Belmonte, told me hed paid a $50 fine at a different Premier Parking/Metropolis lot downtown. Unlike Casella, he had received no confirmation text that his original parking transaction had gone through.

The Better Business Bureau has fielded four other similar complaints against Premier Parking locations since October. (The business is unaccredited with the BBB, which has given it an F rating.)

On Thursday I called Premier Parkings office in Roanoke and left a message for the manager. Soon, Elijah Urias called me back from Naples, Florida. Hes in charge of the Metropolis parking operations in Roanoke, but hasnt moved here yet.

While on the phone with me, Urias reviewed Casellas parking transaction details, including the text messages the company sent her shortly after her daughter parked.

This looks like a mess up on our part, Urias said. Casellas original transaction should have gone through, he added. He also confirmed Casella made no mistake while inputting her debit card number. He noted she paid the $70 fine with an identical account number  and that transaction had gone through.

Urias told me Metropolis would issue a $70 refund to Casella. He called her Thursday, and they connected Friday.

She said Urias told her she should not have been fined, and that he would schedule a meeting with the companys violations department to discuss the matter. Casella has yet to receive a refund. Urias didnt respond to a text or voicemail I left him Monday.

But the same kind of glitch appears to be happening to other downtown motorists, too, based on complaints to the BBB and on NextDoor.com.

That suggests anyone else who parks short-term in Premier Parking/Metropolis lots in Roanoke should be wary.

We already know artificial intelligence has plenty of flaws, because somehow, it has bestowed The Roanoke Times with several Pulitzer Prizes.

A $70 space for two hours of parking in downtown Roanoke seems an even bigger goof.
Roanokes prosecutor has identified the victim of Sunday evenings fatal shooting at a Grandin Village convenience store and provided additional details about the incident.

Steven D. Crowder was shot inside the 7-Eleven in the 1400 block of Grandin Road Southwest, Commonwealths Attorney Donald Caldwell said in a press release Tuesday.

Police said Monday that 20-year-old Isaiah C. Baldwin had been arrested and charged with second-degree murder in connection with the shooting.

The relationship between Baldwin and Crowder remains unclear. But Caldwell confirmed that Crowder was a customer at the 7-Eleven, where Baldwin was a clerk.

Caldwell said the homicide appears to be the result of a spontaneous confrontation over a tobacco product purchase between Baldwin and Crowder.

As a result of the confrontation, Mr. Crowder was shot and killed by Mr. Baldwin, Caldwell said. Mr. Baldwin immediately left the [7-Eleven] following the shooting.

Police responded to the scene at 8:50 p.m. Sunday, according to a search warrant filed in Roanoke Circuit Court.

Officers located an adult male inside the business, assessed his injuries and he was subsequently pronounced deceased, the warrant reads. The investigation revealed that a person inside the business produced a firearm and shot the deceased subject.

Police obtained a search warrant for the store and executed it at 11:19 p.m. Sunday. Officers seized cartridge cases, metal fragments, currency and a phone, according to the warrant.

Caldwell said police also took statements from witnesses on the scene and reviewed video camera footage.

At 2:13 a.m. Monday, police obtained an arrest warrant for Baldwin. Baldwin was taken into custody at 12:27 p.m., by the U.S. Marshals Capital Area Regional Fugitive Task Force.

Mr. Baldwin was arraigned in the Roanoke City General District Court this morning where he was appointed a public defender to represent him, Caldwell said.

Baldwins preliminary hearing in the same court is scheduled for May 27.

Please bear in mind that Mr. Baldwin is presumed to be innocent, Caldwell said. That presumption of innocence will continue until his charges are resolved in court.

The 7-Eleven store on Grandin Road was closed temporarily Monday but reopened at about 2 p.m., a store employee, who did not want to be identified, said Tuesday.

The employee also said 7-Eleven workers are not permitted to carry firearms on the job.

We are aware of the situation that took place in Roanoke on Sunday evening and our thoughts are with the family of the victim, 7-Eleven Inc. said in a statement Tuesday. 7-Eleven is cooperating closely with local law enforcement to provide any support necessary to determine the cause of this incident.
A new logo is part of the updated branding unveiled this week at Roanoke College.

Refreshed branding represents a new era for the 181-year-old institution, said President Frank Shushok in an announcement Tuesday.

We know our story resonates with all kinds of people and holds true to who weve been, who we are and who we are becoming, Shushok said. The sum of experiences, interactions and communications at Roanoke shapes how students engage, how alumni remember and participate, and how faculty and staff deliver on our promise and vision.

The new shield logo is inspired by school values, history and goals, the announcement said. The branding, which also includes a refreshed color palette, typography, patterns, graphics and writing voice, was established in partnership with Ologie, an Ohio-based agency that specializes in education.

What the private college paid the consulting agency was not immediately available.

Yours, Roanoke is the message at the heart of the new communications, the announcement said. The approach is designed to share Roanokes story and convey what makes the College unique for every Maroon.

The goal is to draw people to learn how Roanoke College students turn personal experiences into purpose, said Melanie Wine Tolan, college vice president for marketing and communications.

Our brand tells the world who we are, what we do and why we do it, Tolan said. With almost 200 years of history, we have powerful stories from alumni, students and faculty to share in new ways.

The new logo and communications will be deployed across college platforms, including on-campus signage, merchandise, print publications and a redesigned website that will be completed in late summer, the announcement said.
Roanoke City Council has wrapped up its school board candidate interviews Monday before making two appointments next month.

The council appoints school board trustees for three-year terms, and has now interviewed five people  two of them incumbents for the two seats that will open up July 1.

The incumbents, Eli Jamison and Natasha Saunders, were the last of five candidates to be interviewed by the council Monday. The council interviewed the three other candidates  Jacqueline Moon, Auraliz Quintana and Christopher Link  on April 3.

Jamison has served on the board since 2017 and has held various roles in higher education. During her interview, she said learning loss and student population growth are major challenges now and going forward.

One of the big accomplishments that Ive been working on ... is the investment of the professional development of my colleagues to pass the torch of leadership effectively so the ongoing stewardship of the school board remains constant and strong, Jamison said.

Saunders began serving on the school board in 2020. She said Monday that increasing experiential opportunities for students is important to her. She said her time on the school board  especially her baptism by fire during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic  has taught her the importance of listening and collaborating.

An essential objective for me is to ... continue to be a part of the equity task force and continue to see everything we do through the lens of equity. That has been huge, from our capital improvement plan to our curriculum to how we recruit, Saunders said Monday.

As a trustee, Moon said April 3, she hopes to address housing insecurity and poverty among students. Moon moved to Roanoke in 1990 and served in the military before becoming a real estate assessor in 2004. Moon attended Roanoke schools and she has a son who is a William Fleming High School senior.

Originally from Puerto Rico, Quintana hopes to represent Roanokes Hispanic population on the school board. Before moving to Roanoke seven years ago, she spent time in New York working for child protective services and she currently supervises after school activities for the citys parks and recreation department. One of her children has already graduated from city schools, and another is currently enrolled.

Links interest in the school board stems from his belief that public education is integral to a functional society. A structural engineering consultant from Richmond, Link has lived in Roanoke for about a decade. He has a daughter attending city schools currently.

All five candidates returned to council chambers Monday evening for a public hearing, where residents spoke on their behalves and shared their thoughts about who council should select. Most of them turned out in support of Quintana, including her own daughter.

The council expects to make the appointments on May 1.
But even with fewer time variations, time confusion again arose as a problem in the 20th century. The advent of air travel compressed distances even more, and the rise of the internet and mobile devices enabled instantaneous communication between people all over the planet and gave us a 24-7 culture in which we're tightly interconnected to events in distant places.

That's why a few years ago, Hanke and his colleague, Johns Hopkins University professor of physics and astronomy Richard Conn Henry, proposed an even simpler solution. They want to do away with time zones completely, and put the entire world on universal time (UTC). Under their system, when it's 9:00 in one place, it's 9:00 everywhere on the planet, even if it's morning in one place and evening in another.

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In addition to making it easier to adjust to travel, having one time across the planet would make it easier for people who need to, say, set up conference calls with groups of individuals scattered from Montana to Germany, as Hanke, who is supervisory board chairman of a Dutch company, sometimes has to do.

"Endless confusion would be gone forever," Henry concurs in an email. "Life will be simpler!"

Abolishing time zones might also eliminate the negative health effects from sleep deprivation that affect people who live on the western edge of time zones, as described in this May 2019 article in the Journal of Health Economics.

Since Hanke and Henry proposed abolishing time zones in 2012, others, such as bestselling author and New York Times essayist James Gleick, have supported the idea as well. And to a certain extent, a switch to universal time already has taken place. Pilots and air-traffic controllers in the U.S., for example, rely on universal time (or "zulu time, " as they call it). Financial traders, whose dealings sometimes cross borders as well as time zones, stamp transactions in universal time as well, to make sure that the pricing is correct. And the internet essentially runs on universal time.

Some might wonder if a switch to universal time would alter the rhythm of people's daily schedules, but Hanke doesn't think so.

"People say, 'Oh, if we went universal time, that would mean we'd have be opening businesses when it's dark outside.' No, your business would go like it does now, with the sun. In New York or Baltimore, if you open normally at 9 a.m., that would be 14:00 [2 p.m.] on your watch," he says (assuming GMT is 9 a.m.) It might take some getting used to, but Hanke thinks that in a generation, children who grew up with UTC would no longer associate, say 7 a.m. with breakfast time or 9 a.m. with starting work. And the switch not unheard of.

"China currently has this 'problem' in that it has one time zone for a huge swath of East-West real estate," Henry adds. "But it is totally cured by having local decisions as to opening/closing times for businesses and so on. That would obviously be essential for a world-wide system."

Now That's Interesting Hanke's and Henry's proposal to switch to universal time was an outgrowth of another of their projects, the Hanke-Henry Permanent Calendar, which would create a 364-day year in which the first two months of each quarter are 30 days, and the third has 31 days. Each quarter has the exact same number of days, 91, which is intended to simplify financial calculations.

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Originally Published: Jul 16, 2019
" " Members of the pop group Duran Duran, plus actresses Grace Jones (in hood) and Tanya Roberts pose at a photo shoot for the 1985 James Bond movie "A View to a Kill." Jones and Duran Duran were famous for their androgynous loooks. Sunday People/Mirrorpix/Getty Images

In Fall 2019, The New York Times ran an article titled, "Beyond Androgyny: Nonbinary Teenage Fashion," which referenced the style of teenage musician Billie Eilish. In the story, the author refers to Eilish's "androgynous" oversized, baggy clothes, her statement that gender roles are "ancient," and her position as "the anti-Britney Spears, the anti-Katy Perry." But the author also notes that Perry herself said in 2017 that she was ready to trade in "cutesy" for more "androgynous, architectural" looks herself. While you may be familiar with the term "androgyny," and even how it's represented through fashion, can you conflate it or interchange it with some of the other terms it often stands beside, like "nonbinary" and "genderfluid"?

Rose Bell is a Ph.D. candidate and teaching associate in the department of philosophy at Syracuse University who uses the pronoun "they." They are careful to point out that while they identify as androgynous, genderfluid and nonbinary, they can't speak on behalf of everyone who identifies as any one or more of these descriptors  which, for the record, are entirely distinct things.

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"These are very different; someone can be one of these things without being the others, or they could be all of them!" they write via email. "Androgyny can mean a number of things. I most often hear it used to refer to gender presentation. In this sense, it means someone whose appearance does not fit either masculine or feminine norms  who doesn't look or dress like a man or a woman. But some people also identify as androgynous, which isn't the same as looking androgynous. And both of these things are different from 'nonbinary,' although there is definitely some overlap."

The term "cisgender" refers to someone whose actual gender is the same as the gender they were assigned at birth, and "transgender" refers to a person whose assigned gender at birth differs from their actual gender. While many societies tend to recognize and acknowledge just two genders  male and female  nonbinary individuals may experience a gender identity that's neither one or the other. People who identify as nonbinary may also identify as gender fluid, agender (without gender), third gender or otherwise.

" " Dave Castiblanco, an androgynous model, holds up a Pride flag in Bogota, Colombia. Daniel Garzon Herazo/NurPhoto via Getty Images

"Nonbinary is an umbrella term that describes anyone who has a gender identity that is not strictly one of the 'big two' binary categories," Bell says. "There are many different identities under that umbrella." But according to Bell, while some people who identify as androgynous may also identify as nonbinary, one doesn't equal the other  especially in terms of physical appearance. "It's important to remember that not all nonbinary people have androgynous gender presentation!" they say. "Nonbinary is about who you are, not about how you look."

While genderfluidity may fall under the nonbinary umbrella, the two terms are not equivalent (and neither is equivalent to androgyny). "Genderfluid is a gender identity," Bell says. "If someone is genderfluid, that means their gender isn't fixed. It might shift from day to day. But they don't necessarily shift between 'male' and 'female'  they might shift between 'woman' and 'agender' for example. Genderfluid people are often under the nonbinary umbrella, but not always. The same is true of androgynous people."
Supported by grants disbursed by the National Research Foundation (NRF), these studies will aid the further development of nanosensor technology for the detection of foodborne bacteria and gut health, and microfiltration technology for infectious disease diagnosis

 The Intra-CREATE grants by NRF facilitate increased interdisciplinary collaboration among researchers from SMART and other CREATE research institutions

 These novel projects build on existing technologies developed at SMART

Singapore, 18 April 2023Three research teams from the Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)MIT's research enterprise in Singaporealongside their partner institutions, have been awarded Intra-CREATE grants by the National Research Foundation (NRF) Singapore. The grants are part of the NRF's initiative to bring together researchers from institutions under the Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE) in order to achieve greater impact from collaborative research efforts.

The first two grants have been awarded to researchers from SMART's Disruptive & Sustainable Technologies for Agricultural Precision (DiSTAP) interdisciplinary research group (IRG) to develop food packaging capable of detecting foodborne bacteria, and a rapid test kit to rapidly assess gut health from blood serum and stool samples. The third grant is jointly awarded to a joint research team from SMART's Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) and Critical Analytics for Manufacturing Personalized-Medicine (CAMP) IRGs, for the development of a novel diagnostic technique capable of rapidly detecting low-abundance pathogens in biological samples.

Combining nanosensor technology and food packaging for foodborne bacteria detection

Hosted by SMART DiSTAP in collaboration with the National University of Singapore (NUS), the research project "Biodegradable silk-nanocomposite multifunctional films for sustainable, smart and active food packaging" aims to develop a protein-based, biodegradable and multifunctional food packaging solution capable of detecting and combating foodborne pathogens in real time.

Foodborne illnesses are often caused by bacteria, fungi, parasites and viruses, and food packaging plays an important role in maintaining food safety and freshness. However, conventional food packaging materials are passive barriers that can only delay the adverse effects of contamination, and many are made of synthetic plastics and petroleum-derived polymers which contribute to environmental waste and pollution.

Co-led by Dr. Yangyang Han, Postdoctoral Associate at SMART DiSTAP, and Dr. Tedrick Thomas Salim Lew, Assistant Professor at NUS' Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, this novel and sustainable approach aims to enable early and real-time detection of specific foodborne bacteria. This will be achieved by replacing plastic-based packaging with nature-derived protein-based films with added stimuli-responsive nanosensors and antimicrobial hydrogels.

"Food safety and waste represent a major societal challenge with significant health, economic, and sustainability implications, and our goal is to provide a sustainable alternative to protect food safety while reducing spoilage and environmental waste," said Dr. Han. "The interdisciplinary nature of this projectwhich combines the fields of biomaterials, nanotechnology, food safety, toxicology, sustainability and microbiologywill result in a novel solution to better understand pathogen sources and spread mechanisms in the food supply chain."

Point of care sensing kit to rapidly determine gut health from blood serum and stool samples

SMART DiSTAP's "Rapid detection of Indole-3-propionic acid and development of Raman spectral library for gut health monitoring using a portable spectrometer (RIDRaGS)" project, which combines the expertise of researchers from SMART, MIT, National University Hospital (NUH), NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine (NUS Medicine) and Duke-NUS Medical School, seeks to develop the first sensor capable of instantly detecting the presence of Indole-3-propionic acid (IPA) in blood serum and stool samples.

Digestive diseases constitute one of the highest disease burdens in our community, and persistent gut inflammation and microbial imbalance have been identified as key contributors to obesity, cardiovascular-metabolic diseases, accelerated ageing and cancer. IPA, a small-molecule metabolite produced by the human gut microbiota, is an emerging indicator of gut health as it regulates the gut immune response and inhibits excessive inflammation. Patients with active gut inflammation have depleted IPA levels, while recovery from the inflammation restores IPA concentration.

Co-led by Dr. Mervin Chun-Yi Ang, SMART DiSTAP Associate Scientific Director, and Dr. Lee Wei Jie Jonathan, Consultant at NUH's Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology and Assistant Professor at NUS Medicine, this project focuses on utilising portable spectrometerswhich have been developed by DiSTAP for other biological applications such as non-invasive plant health monitoringto rapidly detect IPA levels in blood or stool samples. This will help to enhance the efficiency of the testing process, as IPA is traditionally analysed through conventional mass spectrometry-based techniques and the use of specialised lab equipment.

"Nutrition, microbiome and anti-inflammatory approaches have received great attention in recent years and are hailed as some of the most promising research areas that will address the country's healthcare challenges," said Dr. Ang. "Building on SMART DiSTAP's success in customising portable spectrometers for different agricultural applications, we are excited to further develop these tools and see how they can be also applied to healthcare and medicine."

Rapid diagnosis of infections and monitoring of cell therapy product contamination using electrostatic microfiltration

Hosted by SMART IRGs AMR and CAMP in collaboration with the Singapore Centre for Environmental Life Sciences Engineering (SCELSE), "Electrostatic microfiltration-based enrichment of low-abundance pathogens and improves downstream detection performance" seeks to produce a novel diagnostic technique capable of rapidly detecting low-abundance pathogens in biological samples.

When a patient is sick from an infection, particularly in their blood, it takes up to seven days to detect pathogens using conventional methods. This hinders timely and appropriate diagnosis and treatment, and worsens the prognosis. A similarly delayed process occurs in cell therapy product manufacturing, where it takes between seven to 14 days to evaluate the presence of contaminants such as bacteria, virus and fungi. Because cell therapy products cannot be sterilised, detecting contaminants early on to restart the production cycle is urgently needed so that the products can be delivered to patients quickly and safely.

The research team, led by Dr. Yaoping Liu, Senior Postdoctoral Associate at SMART CAMP, and Dr. Irvan Luhung, Senior Research Fellow at SCELSE, in their previous research, have developed electrostatic microfiltration as an effective sample preparation device for bacteria enrichment, and aim to integrate the microfilter with mainstream detection methods. This enables the bacteria to be detected via digital loop-mediated isothermal amplificationa form of polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The developed system will be rapid, single use, portable and easy to operatewith no requirement for a highly specialised facility. It will also be compatible with other advanced downstream detection techniques and can be easily embedded into existing commercial kits or facilities to further improve the performance of detection techniques.

"This project builds on on-going projects at SMART focused on separating viruses and bacteriawhich are much smaller than mammalian cellsfrom biological samples, and could revolutionise the way pathogens are identified," said Dr. Liu. "The use of an efficient and relatively cost-effective method could significantly improve the prognosis of sepsis and other infectious diseases, and allow the delivery of timely and more personalised care."

The grants for these projects commenced on 1 April 2023 and will run for 18 months.

###

Provided by Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology
Russia sentences top Kremlin critic Vladimir Kara-Murza to 25 years in prison

The individual previously survived two poisoning attempts and now faces the lengthiest sentence given to an opponent of Russian President Vladimir Putin

Kara-Murza faces charges of spreading false information about the Russian military

Vladimir Kara-Murza, one of the top critics of the Kremlin and Russian President Vladimir Putin, has been sentenced to 25 years in jail after surviving two poisoning attempts.

The Russian individual's prison sentence was handed down about treason charges for criticizing Moscow's invasion of Ukraine in what many people saw as a show trial. The verdict, which is the lengthiest given to a dissident of Putin, highlights the continued crackdown on the Russian Federation since the beginning of the war.

Top Kremlin Critic Sentenced to 25 Years in Jail

The arrested individual is known to be a long-time pro-democracy activist whose family currently lives in the United States. He was a contributing opinion writer for The Washington Post. As per ABC News, kara-Murza, a holder of dual British and Russian citizenship, was arrested in April 2022 and faced charges of spreading false information about the Russian military in Ukraine.

The charges were based on statements that Kara-Murza made where he accused the Russian military of committing war crimes in Ukraine. Russian officials later charged the activist with treason over public speeches criticizing President Putin and his invasion of Kyiv. They also charged him with belonging to an "undesirable organization."

Now, almost all prominent Russian opposition figures are either imprisoned or have been placed in exile amid the continued crackdown on dissidents. Furthermore, the unprecedented length of Kara-Murza's jail sentence sparked fear among liberal Russians and drew comparisons to trials during the era of Joseph Stalin.

Read Also: Judge Lifts Ban on Naming 15-Year-old Gateshead Killer

A Continued Crackdown of Dissidents

The head of the Russian human rights organization Memorial, Yan Rachinsky, said that the sentence given to Kara-Murza was comparable to the times of Stalin. They added that it was even more horrific because it was given in response to a man's words. They argued that this only showed that the Russian Federation was afraid of words and was working to shut dissidents up.

The 45-year-old's last words in court last week were made to support his previous stance on the Russian military's war crimes. On Monday, observers watched Kara-Murza in a cage wearing blue jeans, a black T-shirt, and a gray blazer while handcuffed before he was seen smiling and gesturing to supporters, according to Inquirer.

He noted that he meant every word he said for which he was incarcerated and did not repent for any of them. He added that he was proud of the words he uttered in opposition to the Russian military's actions.

The activist's wife, Evgenia Kara-Murza, praised her husband's courage following the sentencing. She gave him a "5+" for his courage, consistency, and honesty, whereas the grade was comparable to an "A+" in other educational systems.

On Monday, Kara-Murza's lawyer, Vadim Prokhorov, said that his client plans to appeal the sentence in the near future, said CNN.

Related Article: US Military Helicopter Raid Kills Senior ISIS Leader

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AI software can accurately detect TB from chest X-rays, shows a study being presented at this year's European Congress of Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases (ECCMID) in Copenhagen, Denmark, (15-18 April).

Tuberculosis (TB) is a major cause of death and disease worldwide. It causes 1.6 million deaths a year, making it is the 13th-leading cause of death globally and the second-biggest infectious killer, after COVID-19.

In low-resource settings, chest X-rays play an important role in the diagnosis of patients unable to produce good quality sputum samples for microbiological analysis. Computer-aided detection (the use of software to analyze X-rays for abnormalities) could assist in diagnosis in areas with a lack of radiologists.

However, there is a lack of good-quality studies assessing its diagnostic accuracy, as highlighted recently by the World Health Organization.

To find out more, Dr. Frauke Rudolf of the Department of Infectious Diseases, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark, and colleagues compared the performance of artificial intelligence (AI) software (qXR, Qure.ai, Mumbai, India) in assessing chest X-rays with that of two Ethiopian radiologists with different levels of experience.

To improve applicability in low resource settings, the AI was given mobile phone photographs of analog (non-digital) CXRs.

Chest X-rays from 498 patients were analyzed retrospectively. Fifty-seven (11%) of these patients had been diagnosed with TB, 41 clinically and 16 through PCR tests (Xpert MTB/Rif).

The AI software was as good or better than a trained radiologist at identifying the PCR-confirmed cases. It correctly identified 75% of all PCR-confirmed cases (sensitivity of 75%) and 85.7% of non-TB cases (specificity of 85.7%).

The less experienced radiologist's assessments had a sensitivity of 62.5% (they correctly picked up 62.5% of the PCR-confirmed cases) and a specificity of 91.7% (they correctly identified 91.7% of those who didn't have TB).

The experienced radiologist's assessments were 75% sensitive and 82.0% specific.

The agreement in results between the radiologists was moderate, as was the agreement between the radiologists combined and the software.

Dr. Rudolf says, "With an estimated 3 million undiagnosed patients in 2021, there is an urgent need to develop novel strategies and technologies aimed at improving TB detection in low-resource, high-incidence settings.

"We've shown that AI software is at least as good at detecting TB as a trained radiologist and that a simple mobile phone photograph is sufficient for analysis.

"In low resource areas with a high incidence of TB but a shortage of radiologists, chest X-rays could be photographed with a mobile phone and the image sent be analyzed remotely by the AI.

"This would allow more chest X-rays to be read properly and, crucially, allow more cases of TB to be diagnosed."

Provided by European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases
GREENVILLE, S.C.  For lineworkers, weathering the storm is just another day on the job, a job critical to the building the 21st century infrastructure South Carolinas economy will be built on.

As Duke Energy celebrates National Lineworker Appreciation Day, its also important to recognize the critical role the states technical colleges and high schools play in preparing and training the energy workforce of the future. As part of the companys ongoing support for these programs, the Duke Energy Foundation has granted $10,000 to each of the five training sites that are preparing lineworkers with the skills necessary to keep the lights on and ready the grid for a low-carbon future.

We are transforming the energy grid  making strategic, data-driven investments to improve reliability, use more solar and clean energy and provide customers with the intelligent information they need to make better energy choices and save money, said Mike Callahan, Duke Energys South Carolina state president. These investments will reap benefits for many years to come, but we must increase the talent pipeline for lineworkers here in South Carolina today to build the smart-thinking power grid of tomorrow. Programs like these are absolutely critical for us to be successful in these efforts.

The grants will help provide the necessary safety equipment to students as part of their participation in these programs. Recipients include the York Comprehensive High School, York Technical College, Horry Georgetown Technical College, Tri-County Technical College and Denmark Technical College.

Over the past six years, Duke Energy and its Foundation have provided more than $2.8 million in funding to support lineworker programs in states where the company operates.

Battling storms, building the future

Ten years after the U.S. Senate passed a resolution in 2013 designating April 18 as National Lineworker Appreciation Day, the role of lineworkers is more important than ever before  in maintaining and growing energy infrastructure, protecting public safety and making sure communities have power.

Our lineworkers continue to do the important work of keeping the lights on  whether its our transmission techs working on high-voltage transmission lines that carry electricity from power plants or our distribution techs working on the lines that carry power to homes and businesses, said Harry Sideris, executive vice president of customer experience, solutions and services for Duke Energy. Im proud that our line teams prioritize safety and taking care of our customers and of each other.

The more than 7,700 Duke Energy and contract lineworkers who make up the Duke Energy line team are responsible for constructing, operating and maintaining equipment and more than 300,000 miles of power lines in Duke Energys service territories  enough to circle the Earth 12 times.

My job comes with daily challenges and responsibilities for both my crew and me, but I take pride in safely and efficiently delivering power to our customers  so they can go about their lives with the modern conveniences that electricity provides, and that most people depend on, said Joshua Haithcock, senior journeyman lineworker originally from South Carolina who currently is with the New Bern, N.C., coastal zone workforce development crew.

Those interested in a career as an electric lineworker with Duke Energy should contact community colleges directly for more information on their specific lineworker training programs, including available funding for tuition.
FLORENCE, S.C.  The Francis Marion University Performing Arts Center will join communities around the state by hosting a ReadAcrossSC event which will feature readings of books threatened with banning. The event will take place from 1-3 p.m. Sunday at the amphitheater on the lawn of the Performing Arts Center in downtown Florence.

The first half hour of the event will be devoted to readings from books written for young children, and the second half hour will be devoted to readings from young adult novels. The final hour will be devoted to readings of books aimed at older audiences, including books that have stirred controversy when taught in high schools and on college campuses. Volunteer readers will include members of the Francis Marion University and Florence-area communities. All the readings will include family-friendly passages.

Information about book banning in South Carolina and about the history of select banned books will be provided to all attendees.

In case of inclement weather, the event will be held in the foyer area of the FMU Performing Arts Center.

Similar events will be held in Columbia, Charleston, Hilton Head, and Rock Hill during the week of April 20 to coincide with the April 20 ReadSC Read-In at the South Carolina State House.
    23% 50 34 13% LME  1800020000   2% 250 17.1 15 250   AI 8.5% 0.56%  Alphabet 700 31.36%   FRC       2811.88% 10%3  2021 5.58%2.5% 0.49% 0.7%0.77%  2 1%6% 410%  596   $3000  746 10% 
SIOUX CITY  This weekend, the Boys Scouts of America will be collecting non-perishable food items to give to the Food Bank of Siouxland.

The so-called "Foraging" event is set for Saturday, April 22 and will involve local Boy Scouts gathering donations from people's doorsteps and delivering them directly to the food bank. On Thursday, the Food Bank of Siouxland and the Boy Scouts are holding a First Bag Donation ceremony.

"Members of City Council will be present to commemorate the 'First Bag Donation' and thank Boy Scouts of America for their service to our community," a release from the Food Bank of Siouxland said. Per the statement, the ceremony is set for 3:30 p.m.

The Food Bank of Siouxland is located at 1313 11th St. and has been operating since 1991.
SIOUX CITY -- A Sioux City woman has been sentenced to more than three years in federal prison for selling methamphetamine.

Kimberly Hansen, 58, pleaded guilty in October in U.S. District Court to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. She was sentenced Friday to 37 months in prison. She will serve two years on supervised release after completing her prison sentence.

According to the U.S. Attorney's Office, Hansen and others sold at least 15 kilograms of meth from June 2017 through August 2019. Hansen received shipments of multiple pounds of meth via mail from California 12 times and bought several pounds of meth from the same source and transported it back to Sioux City for resale.
CHEROKEE, Iowa  Six months after the Cherokee Community School District Board of Education voted to allow staffers to carry weapons in school, community members and parents continue to seek additional information.

Around 30 community members attended a Cherokee school board meeting Monday. Some shared their concerns about the policy and asked questions, while others expressed support for the policy.

Board Vice President Angie Anderson abruptly moved to adjourn the meeting before completing the agenda. The board voted to end the meeting unanimously.

In October, the Cherokee Community School District school board voted to change the districts weapons policy, exempting staff from the policy. The policy says school district facilities are not an appropriate place for weapons and outlines the process if a student or parent brings a weapon into the facilities.

One sentence of the policy was changed to add staff to those exempted from the policy: Weapons under the control of law enforcement officials and staff approved by the administrative team are exempt from this policy.

School Board President Jodi Thomas said the board and district took the policy change seriously after being approached by staff.

They wanted to protect themselves, our students and their friends and colleagues, she said.

In November, the board approved weapons training for 29 individuals; in February the board approved weapons training for up to 45 staff members.

No other changes have been made to the policy, nor have any other policies or procedures been voted on in open session.

Parent Sofia Seliger said after the weapons policy was changed, community stakeholders were told multiple steps would occur before staff members are allowed to carry weapons at school and would involve school board approval in public meetings.

She said it was assumed there would be additional information presented to the public before any aspects of the program were implemented and it was shocking to see the board approve the weapons training for staff.

A group of parents and community members have been vocal against the new policy, sharing concerns related to safety, financial impacts, lack of transparency and a lack of professional research in the decision-making, among other issues.

The group addressed the board during the regular March meeting but, due to board policy, the board members were unable to respond at the time. The group asked to be put on the March board meeting agenda, but due to various reasons was not.

The group provided a four-page letter to the board outlining their concerns regarding the policy. On Monday, the board responded to the concerns in a prepared statement.

Funding for training, supplies

The first concern outlined in the letter was the funding source for the weapons, training, supplies and implementation of the policy.

The group said the district plans to cover costs with Gov. Kim Reynolds School Safety Initiative, which is intended to provide funding for schools to implement safety measures. It uses two COVID-19 relief funding sources, the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER).

Community members contend that arming staff does not qualify, as the funds are for capital improvements.

The district received a voluntary assessment done in November by the Iowa Department of Homeland Security to become eligible for the use of the funds and administration is currently working to write the grant request, said Board Member Patty Brown.

Brown said anything not covered by the grant would be funded by the districts general fund.

The community group expressed concerns about the overall cost of allowing weapons and training staff.

So far, the board has approved up to 74 staff members for weapons training. The group quoted the Cherokee Chronicle Times stating the negotiated rate was $20,000 for training and $1,000 per day for building rental.

Even if only 36 teachers and staff proceed to this level of training, building rental alone will amount to $15,000, the letter read. This combined cost of $35,000 does not include any of the other associated costs including ammunition, protective gear, transportation, stipends, and the firearms themselves if that is deemed part of the policy implementation.

As of today, there has been no cost to the district for weapon training, said Board Member Ray Mullins. Volunteers who received three hours of instruction from Peterson Firearms Instruction and intend to proceed with future training have paid for their own conceal and carry permits."

Mullins said exact future costs are not known at this time and will depend on the number of staff deemed competent to carry weapons and building layouts.

Costs outlined by Mullins included:

$0 for Peterson Firearms Instruction conceal and carry training;

$365 per year, per district for Fostoria Gun Range facility rental from the general fund;

$1,000 per eight-hour day, per building team of 12 for Peterson Firearm Instruction weapons training, a total estimate of $15,000 from the general fund;

$10,000 initial estimate for ammunition supplies for weapons training from the general fund;

$5,000 for one-time expenses including safes, weapon cleaning kits, protective equipment from the general fund and;

After the initial training, an estimated yearly cost of $13,000 for weapons training, range membership, training ammunition, screenings and ongoing training.

Insurance coverage

The second concern outlined in the letter was the potential loss of the districts insurance carrier. The group states EMC Insurance has maintained they will not carry policies for schools who choose to arm staff and teachers.

Mullins said the district has not received official cancellation by EMC Insurance and the policy is currently enforced.

Thomas added the Iowa House approved a bill that would protect schools that arm their staff from being dropped by their insurance carrier. She said the bill is now awaiting approval from the Iowa Senate.

The group acknowledged the bill in their letter but stated they are concerned about the potential increase in premiums following this decision.

Transparency

The third concern listed in the letter was the lack of honest communication and transparency.

Based on correspondence with the superintendent and lack of specifics in public school board notes, it appears that much of the discussion and decision making surrounding this policy was done erroneously in closed session, according to the letter.

In August, the board held a closed session to examine the emergency operations plan, citing Iowa Code allowing closed sessions to avoid disclosure of specific law enforcement matters. In the following meeting in September, the board began discussing the weapons policy change.

The group believes discussing the weapons policy does not qualify for a closed session and should have been discussed in an open session. The group also outlined specific board policies they believed were not followed.

Anderson said an FAQ was released in October to answer questions in a manner that wouldn't be counterproductive.

Decisions regarding safety policy and strategy are not always publicized in complete detail out of concern that the plan could be compromised by those who might wish to do harm, Anderson said.

Use of professional data and research

The fourth concern outlined in the community members letter is the use of data and research in the process of changing the policy. The letter states the group was unable to find professional, scientific, data-driven studies which affirm the school boards decision to update the weapons policy and proceed with training teachers to carry weapons.

The group states various resources indicate introducing weapons into schools makes the environment less safe, not more.

We are incredibly disappointed that the administration and board have withheld information used to inform your decision to change the weapons policy, according to the letter.

Board Member Brian Freed said the board looked at school shootings that have already occurred. He read off various schools in the nation where school shootings occurred, what their active shooter plan was and the total victim count.

Parkland, Florida, school plan was resource officers on campus and to call 911, the victim count was 34, he said. Uvalde, Texas, the school plan was to call 911, victim count was 38.

Thomas said there have been 130 mass shootings this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive, and last year there were four times as many mass shootings as any previous year.

She said an armed citizen has never shot the wrong person while stopping an active shooter.

The board of education will not hope for a good, armed person to be present and wait for a fast response to a 911 call if an active shooter comes through our doors, we will plan for a well-trained, armed person to be present. We will plan to respond to a threat within 30 seconds, she said.

Public comment

On Monday, the board limited those who wished to speak on the topic to 1 minute and 40 seconds. The board did not respond to any of the comments made or questions asked. The group of community members who gave the board the initial letter provided an additional statement they had planned to read during the meeting.

Audience members expressed frustration regarding the limited amount to speak and the abrupt ending to the meeting.
State senators on the Legislature's Education Committee on Monday voted to advance a bill capping superintendent pay at five times the pay of a first-year teacher to the floor for debate.

Sen. Dave Murman of Glenvil, the sponsor of the bill (LB800), said the committee will meet later this week to discuss whether to include the measure in a package of other education-related bills or have it be considered on its own.

The bill advanced from the committee on a 5-2 vote after delaying a vote on Friday.

Along with Murman, Sens. Lou Ann Linehan of Elkhorn, Danielle Conrad of Lincoln, Joni Albrecht of Thurston and Justin Wayne of Omaha all voted to advance LB800.

Sens. Rita Sanders of Bellevue and Lynne Walz of Fremont voted against it. Sen. Tom Briese of Albion was absent from Monday's executive session.

The bill has already generated controversy as Gov. Jim Pillen has signaled that he would veto LB800 should it pass three rounds of voting and land on his desk for a signature.

A former member of the University of Nebraska Board of Regents that participated in two president searches, Pillen said he believed the bill would take away local control from school boards.

Murman said his bill was designed to control administrative costs and could incentivize school districts to raise teacher pay. It would only affect new superintendent contracts moving forward.

But organizations representing school administrators, education service units and school districts in urban and rural areas opposed the bill, and said a one-size-fits all approach could keep boards from hiring the best candidates for the job.

The bill largely appears to target Nebraska's three largest school districts  Lincoln Public Schools, Omaha Public Schools and Millard Public Schools  where school boards have approved large contracts for their top administrators in recent years.

Representatives from those groups told the committee earlier this year that those increases were needed to recruit top candidates for those jobs.

Other bills advanced by the committee include:

* LB603 from Linehan to allow for alternative methods for individuals with bachelor's degrees to get certified as teachers in Nebraska. Teachers pursuing certification through this route would be required to complete a semester of student teaching under an amendment approved by the committee.

* LB703 by Murman, which would allow state and community colleges to sell surplus property on their campuses rather than have to haul those items to Lincoln for an auction under the existing state rules.

* LB708 from Speaker John Arch to create a memorandum of understanding between the Nebraska Department of Education, the Department of Health and Human Services, and the Office of Probation Administration and the State Court Administrator to share data about students who are in the juvenile court system.

* LB762 from Sen. Wendy DeBoer of Bennington creating the Paraprofessional to Teacher Program to help recruit more certified teachers. The program would receive $100,000 in funding from the Education Future Fund in 2023-24 and $1 million annually after that to help paraprofessionals become teachers using an alternative certification process.

Top Journal Star photos for April 2023
SIOUX CITY  For the second week in a row, the Sioux City Council opted to defer a vote on a proposed sewer rate hike, which would impact residential, commercial and industrial ratepayers.

The vote to delay the second reading of the ordinance for another week came after Doug Skinner, a representative of Bridgeport Logistics, asked a number of questions about plans to rebuild the city's aging wastewater treatment plant at 3100 S. Lewis Blvd.

The project would be done in phases. The first two phases, which are mandatory, are expected to cost roughly $465 million. A third phase, which would be undertaken if a new industry moves to town, could increase the total cost of the project to $580 million, according to Hazen and Sawyer, P.C., a Minneapolis environmental engineering firm hired by the city to develop a comprehensive facility plan.

Last Thursday, city staff held a meeting with representatives of industries that utilize the plant. Tom Pingel, the city's utility director in charge of the wastewater treatment plant, said implementing the rate increase at the beginning of the next calendar year, rather than the next fiscal year, which begins July 1, was discussed. He said the results of a survey, which asked industrial users which option they prefer, will be presented during next Monday's council meeting.

"Does that also change the permitting process? Does it have to be done by the same timeline, if we're pushing back on the payment stream?" Skinner asked.

City Manager Bob Padmore said the city could defer rates until 2024, but was "under the gun to get going with the design of the plant."

"We would not recommend deferring the master plan process at all," he said.

Hazen and Sawyer is proposing sharing the cost allocation of investments in future infrastructure 50/50 between non-industrial users, which includes commercial and residential ratepayers, and industrial users.

Under the current proposal, a large industry paying $5.05 million annually would see their sewer rates increase to $6.56 million in FY 2024, $7.87 million in FY 2025 and $9.45 million in FY 2026.

During the council's meeting on April 10, Frank Koekkoek Jr., vice president and general manager of Seaboard Triumph Foods, said the pork company would see its sewer rate increase 45% the first year, 75% the second year and 110% the third year.

"I would be remiss if I did not advise all of the economical impact that Seaboard Triumph Foods makes to Sioux City. Seaboard Triumph Foods is the largest employer in Sioux City with 2,500-plus team members. Our yearly expenditures in the community total millions of dollars," he said. "We will always stand by our current commitments. But the mandated rate increase will affect our ability to continue extra charitable donations to over 1,000 nonprofit organizations of Siouxland that are vital to the success of our community residents."

A sewer bill of a small family using 6,000 gallons (800 cubic feet) a month would rise from $41.85 to $50.19 in FY 2024, based on information provided to the council by Hazen and Sawyer. The following two years, the monthly rate for that family would be $55.20 and $56.86. A large family currently being charged $80.49 for 12,000 gallons (1,600 cubic feet) would pay $96.51 in FY 2024, $106.16 in FY 2025 and $109.34 in FY 2026.

On Monday, Skinner also inquired about whether the city has looked into applying for grants to help fund the project.

"This is a huge deal for us. I just didn't get the feeling that we had exhausted every avenue of applicable grants. Have we engaged federal politicians?" he asked.

Councilman Alex Watters noted that he spoke with an official in Washington, D.C., last year, about the wastewater treatment plant and other city projects.

"As far as grant opportunities, Julie (Schoenherr) and others have been on board with preaching that quite a bit, that we need to be aggressive looking into grants to offset some of the costs of these different projects, because the costs have increased so greatly," he said.

The existing wastewater treatment plant, which is between 50 and 60 years old, poses significant safety issues for city staff and has a history of compliance issues with the state.

In January of 2022, the Iowa DNR filed suit against the city over alleged repeated environmental violations at the plant, which dated back to March 2012. The city faces fines adding up to millions of dollars.

In response, the city concedes there have been past violations. But, in each case, the city self-reported them to the DNR upon discovery. The city also has denied allegations that city officials intentionally misled state regulators about the operating capabilities of the plant, calling them "reckless and libelous."
SIOUX CITY  The Sioux City Council green-lighted a budget plan Monday that will increase the tax levy.

The council, during its weekly meeting, voted 4 to 0 to approve a resolution adopting a $194.7 million operating budget and a $82.3 million Capital Improvement Program.

The FY 2024 property tax levy of $15.76 is up from the previous year's levy of $15.42 per $1,000 of assessed valuation.

Finance Director Teresa Fitch told the council that the largest expense categories for the city in FY 2024 are employee compensation, which comprises 36% of the budget, and capital expenditures, which account for 27%.

Fitch noted that the city receives roughly 40% of the property taxes that residents pay.

The owner of a home assessed at $100,000 will pay $785 in property taxes to the city in FY 2024, up $25 from the previous year, while the owner of a commercial or industrial property with an assessed value of $100,000 faces a city tax bill of $1,419, up from $31 the prior year.

The city's budgeting process was impacted by a state error that created a shortfall in expected revenue for Iowa's cities, counties, school districts and community colleges.

City staff initially proposed keeping the tax levy flat. But, after a bill to correct the state's error was signed into law by Gov. Kim Reynolds in February, the city had to increase the levy to make up for a $650,000 shortfall.

In 2013, the Iowa Legislature made reductions to certain property taxes. They also promised "backfill" or funding to cities, counties and schools, whose revenue was impacted by the cuts. In FY 2021, the Legislature decided to phase-out the backfill. The backfill will be completely gone in 2030, according to the Iowa League of Cities.

Fitch showed the council a chart of past city tax collections on residential property assessed at $100,000 dating back to 2015. The city's share of the tax bill for that property is actually less in FY 2024, than it was in fiscal years 2015 to 2020.

"As you can see, we've been much higher than we currently are today and, at times, a little bit lower," Fitch said of the levy. "But, based on that rollback, we're able to change that levy amount to ensure that we're being fiscally responsible to our taxpayers."

Last month, Sioux City Assessor Tyler Erickson's office sent out Sioux City real estate assessment value notices. On average, property owners in the city saw their assessed values increase by about 23.5% (the average for Iowa in 2023 is between 20% and 30%).

"Although the assessor does not report to us, we're kind of all in it together. So, the more information we can get out, the better," Councilwoman Julie Schoenherr remarked, after Fitch's presentation.
United States authorities investigate classified Pentagon documents leaker for potential international ties

The suspect, identified as 21-year-old Jack Teixeira, was a member of the Massachusetts Air National Guard

Officials currently have no evidence that ties the individual to any foreign entity or party

United States officials are investigating the suspect in the leakage of classified Pentagon documents to determine whether or not he had any foreign ties about his reason for conducting the crime.

Three people familiar with the probe spoke out regarding the investigation, as authorities have not seen any public evidence of foreign relations with the suspect. The leaker, identified as 21-year-old Jack Teixeira, was a member of the Massachusetts Air National Guard.

Pentagon Docs Leaker Probed for Possible Foreign Ties

However, United States President Joe Biden's administration and several law enforcement agencies are looking deeper to determine the actual motivation behind the leak. As per Politico, the sources, who spoke anonymously, said that officials do not yet have any information on who the individual was talking to outside of the Discord server.

If officials do find that the suspect has any foreign links, it would mean that the leak was even more damaging than it initially seemed. It could also suggest that a foreign entity or government orchestrated the crime, or it could mean that materials were made available to foreign officials before the leak was made public.

Additionally, the possibility of a foreign connection to the leaker could open him up to further charges. Currently, Teixeira is facing charges of "unauthorized retention and transmission of national defense information" and "unauthorized removal and retention of classified documents or material." Each charge carries a maximum prison sentence of up to 10 years.

Court documents revealed that the leaker violated two sections of the Espionage Act with his criminal actions. If authorities can establish probable cause in the case, they could add another charge against the suspect under a separate section of the act. That particular part of the law deals with gathering or delivering defense information to aid a foreign government.

Read Also: Grand Jury Declines To Indict Ohio Cops in Jayland Walker's Death

Potential Motivation Behind the Criminal Act

The situation comes as many wonder how a 21-year-old junior member of a reserve force of the Massachusetts Air National Guard could get his hands on classified documents. According to BBC, one factor was that he previously worked as a cyber transport systems journeyman within the agency.

The US Air Force website outlined a description of this particular job where it showed the minimum requirements for the role. One was a high school education and a "Single Scope Background Investigation."

An associate fellow at the Technology and National Security Program at the Center for a New American Security think tank, Alexandria Seymour, said it was not unusual for a 21-year-old to access classified information in modern times.

The suspect's arrest came one week after the initial leak of the classified Pentagon documents in a small Discord group. The documents included various information, such as eavesdropping on key allies and adversaries and blunt assessments on the state of the Ukraine war, said CNN.

Related Article: FBI Makes Arrest Concerning Secret Chinese Police Station

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
SIOUX CITY  The Sioux City Police Department is investigating a Tuesday morning incident where multiple shots were fired on South Clinton Street in the Morningside area.

According to Sioux City Police, on the 2300 block of South Clinton, a 24-year-old male got into an argument with another man inside of the residence. As the argument escalated, the suspect pulled out a handgun and chased the other man out of the house. As the chase went north, toward the suspect's car, the suspect fired two shots at the other man.

"Both shots missed the victim, but one bullet struck the front passenger window of the suspect's vehicle that was parked on the east side of S. Clinton Street," a Sioux City Police release said.

Police say the suspect then left the scene in a silver 2008 Chevy Impala which was later found, unoccupied, four blocks from where the shooting took place.
SIOUX CITY  Early Tuesday morning, Sioux City Police officers responded to a stabbing call at the Centennial Manor Apartments on West Third Street, near Cook Park.

Police were dispatched around 1:34 a.m. and located a 53-year-old male who'd been stabbed multiple times, according to a press release. The man who was stabbed was then taken to the hospital and treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

"The suspect in the stabbing, who also resides at the Centennial Manor Apartments, was quickly identified and interviewed by investigators," the release said. "At this time there have been no criminal charges filed, and the investigation is on-going."
WASHINGTON  Extreme views adopted by some local, state and federal political leaders who try to limit what history can be taught in schools and seek to undermine how Black officials perform their jobs are among the top threats to democracy for Black Americans, the National Urban League says.

Marc Morial, the former New Orleans mayor who leads the civil rights and urban advocacy organization, cited the most recent example: the vote this month by the Republican-controlled Tennessee House to oust two Black representatives for violating a legislative rule. The pair participated in a gun control protest inside the chamber after a shooting that killed three students and three staff members at a Nashville school.

"We have censorship and Black history suppression, and now this," Morial said in an interview. "It's another piece of fruit of the same poisonous tree, the effort to suppress and contain."

Both Tennessee lawmakers were quickly reinstated by leaders in their districts after an uproar that spread well beyond the state.

The Urban League's new annual State of Black America report draws on data and surveys from a number of organizations, including the UCLA Law School, the Southern Poverty Law Center and the Anti-Defamation League. The collective findings reveal an increase in recent years in hate crimes and efforts to change classroom curriculums, attempts to make voting more difficult and extremist views being normalized in politics, the military and law enforcement.

One of the most prominent areas examined is so-called critical race theory. Scholars developed it as an academic framework during the 1970s and 1980s in response to what they viewed as a lack of racial progress following the civil rights legislation of the 1960s. The theory centers on the idea that racism is systemic in the nation's institutions and they function to maintain the dominance of white people in society.

Director Taifha Alexander said the Forward Tracking Project, part of the UCLA Law School, began in response to the backlash that followed the protests of George Floyd's killing in 2020 and an executive order that year from then-President Donald Trump restricting diversity training.

The project's website shows that 209 local, state and federal government entities introduced more than 670 bills, resolutions, executive orders, opinion letters, statements and other measures against critical race theory since September 2020.

Anti-critical race theory is "a living organism in and of itself. It's always evolving. There are always new targets of attack," Alexander said.

She said the expanded scope of some of those laws, which are having a chilling effect on teaching certain aspects of U.S. racial conflicts, will lead to major gaps in understanding history and social justice.

"This anti-CRT campaign is going to frustrate our ability to reach our full potential as a multiracial democracy" because future leaders will be missing information they could use to tackle problems, Alexander said.

She said one example is the rewriting of Florida elementary school material about civil rights figure Rosa Parks and her refusal to give up her seat to a white rider on a Montgomery, Alabama, bus in 1955  an incident that sparked the bus boycott there. Mention of race was omitted entirely in one revision, a change first reported by The New York Times.

Florida has been the epicenter of many of the steps, including opposing AP African American studies, but it's not alone.

"The things that have been happening in Florida have been replicated, or governors in similarly situated states have claimed they will do the same thing," Alexander said.

In Alabama, a proposal to ban "divisive" concepts passed out of legislative committee this past week. Last year, the administration of Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin, a Republican, rescinded a series of policies, memos and other resources related to diversity, equity and inclusion it characterized as "discriminatory and divisive concepts" in the state's public education system.

Oklahoma public school teachers are prohibited from teaching certain concepts of race and racism under a bill Republican Gov. Kevin Stitt signed into law in 2021.

On Thursday, the Llano County Commissioners Court in Texas held a special meeting to consider shutting down the entire public library system rather than follow a federal judge's order to return a slate of books to the shelves on topics ranging from teenage sexuality to bigotry.

After listening to public comments, the commissioners decided to remove the item from the agenda.

Other issues in Urban League's report address extremism in the military and law enforcement, energy and climate change, and how current attitudes can affect public policy. Predominantly white legislatures in Missouri and Mississippi have proposals that would shift certain government authority from some majority Black cities to the states.

Forty percent of voters in last year's elections said their local K-12 public schools were not teaching enough about racism in the U.S., while 34% said it already was too much, according to AP VoteCast, an expansive survey of the American electorate; 23% said the current curriculum was about right.

About two-thirds of Black voters said more should be taught on the subject, compared with about half of Latino voters and about one-third of white voters.

50 movies that address the history of racism in America 50 movies that address the history of racism in America Within Our Gates (1920) Shadows (1958) A Raisin in the Sun (1961) Guess Who's Coming to Dinner (1967) In the Heat of the Night (1967) Symbiopsychotaxiplasm: Take One (1968) The Story of a Three-Day Pass (1968) The Learning Tree (1969) Cotton Comes to Harlem (1970) Sounder (1972) The Spook Who Sat by the Door (1973) Ganja & Hess (1973) Killer of Sheep (1978) Losing Ground (1982) She's Gotta Have It (1986) Tongues Untied (1989) Do the Right Thing (1989) Daughters of the Dust (1991) Boyz n the Hood (1991) Just Another Girl on the I.R.T. (1992) Malcolm X (1992) Hoop Dreams (1994) Devil in a Blue Dress (1995) The Watermelon Woman (1996) Down in the Delta (1998) Bamboozled (2000) How to Eat Your Watermelon in White Company (and Enjoy It) (2005) The Untold Story of Emmett Louis Till (2005) The Great Debaters (2007) Trouble the Water (2008) The Black Power Mixtape 1967-1975 (2011) 12 Years a Slave (2013) Fruitvale Station (2013) Dear White People (2014) Selma (2014) Rat Film (2016) I Am Not Your Negro (2016) O.J.: Made in America (2016) Loving (2016) 13th (2016) Get Out (2017) Did You Wonder Who Fired the Gun? (2017) Strong Island (2017) The Force (2017) Mudbound (2017) Hale County This Morning, This Evening (2018) If Beale Street Could Talk (2018) Sorry to Bother You (2018) The Hate U Give (2018) Just Mercy (2019)
A 27-year-old Lincoln man is in jail after he fled Nebraska State Patrol troopers in a stolen car at speeds higher than 100 mph after an attempted traffic stop Sunday evening, according to authorities.

Troopers ultimately deployed spike strips to stop Edwin Portillo Barrientos on Interstate 80 after he had fled nearly 40 miles from where troopers initially tried to stop him, near Bradshaw in York County, the patrol said in a news release.

When troopers stalled Barrientos' vehicle near mile marker 383, he and a front-seat passenger fled authorities on foot, running across the westbound lanes of I-80 before they were taken into custody, according to the news release.

Authorities determined the car Barrientos was driving had been stolen, the State Patrol said.

And they found that the passenger who fled, a 17-year-old girl, had been reported missing, according to the news release.

Troopers arrested Barrientos on suspicion of flight to avoid arrest, willful reckless driving and felony theft by receiving stolen property. He was taken to the York County jail.

The 17-year-old girl was taken to the Lancaster County Youth Intervention Center for an outstanding warrant, according to the release.

Photos: National Guard Sendoff held at Memorial Stadium
A 74-year-old Verdigre man convicted of killing his wife died Saturday at the state prison in Tecumseh.

Phillip Privett was serving a sentence of 40 to 60 years for second-degree murder and use of a firearm to commit a felony. A spokeswoman for the Nebraska Department of Corrections said Sunday that the cause of death has not been determined, but Privett was being treated for a medical condition.

Prosecutors said Privett fatally shot his wife, 66-year-old Linda Privett, at their home in northeast Nebraska on Oct. 20, 2014. A Knox County Sheriff's Office deputy said he responded to a report of shooting and the woman dead on the back porch of the couple's Verdigre home.

Privett, who was arrested without incident, would have been eligible for parole in 2037. Whenever an inmate dies in custody, a grand jury conducts an investigation.

Photos: Nebraska's new Reception and Treatment Center
Photo Credit: Science Photo Library / Alamy Stock Photo

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, each year there are over 1 million work-related injury and illness cases resulting in days away from work. Thats one occupational injury or illness out of every 100 full-time workers annually. The number might not seem high, but given the median number of work days lost per case is 9, the effects are quite large.

Interestingly, most workplace injuries (almost 60% in 2016) are the result of common, everyday missteps  such as overexertion and falls, slips, and trips  not violent events, vehicle crashes, or exposure to harmful substances. This likely explains why the injury incidence rate of nursing assistants, for example, is very close to that of movers and construction workers.

With this in mind, the business security firm CPI Security wanted to help business owners understand which specific injuries were most common in the workplace. Using data from the BLS, CPI analyzed incidence rates, total injuries, median number of work days lost, and other factors across over 1.1 million injury cases nationwide in 2016. For each type of injury, data was used to determine an approximation for how many total work days are lost annually due to that injury (across all employees nationwide), as well as the most common event leading to that injury. The list below shows the top 8 most common workplace injuries in the U.S. With a better understanding for the injuries employees are susceptible to, business owners are better equipped to create and monitor more secure work environments.

CPI Business Solutions

Methodology

Data used in this analysis is from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses (SOII). The SOII includes data on non-fatal injuries and illnesses for each calendar year from a sample of employers. Data for the self-employed, small farms (10 or fewer people), private household workers, volunteers, and federal government workers are not included in the survey. The specific dataset used in this analysis is the Nonfatal cases involving days away from work: selected characteristics (2016). Cases were grouped by the nature of injury (the list items below). The 8 natures with the highest incidence rates are included below with their corresponding total number of cases and median days away from work. The most common event causing the injury for each nature was determined based on total cases. Total work days lost due to the injury was calculated by multiplying the total number of cases for each nature in 2016 by its median days away from work. This calculation is to be used as a rough, directional indicator of how impactful injuries of each nature are on workforce participation.
A bill that would increase penalties for selling a drug that results in a death and hike penalties for fentanyl sales is headed to Gov. Kim Reynolds' desk.

The Iowa Senate passed House File 595 41-9, giving the bill its final green light and making it eligible to be signed into law by Reynolds, who said she will soon sign it. All no votes were Democrats.

If signed into law, a person would receive three times the sentence otherwise imposed by law if they sell or provide a drug to another person that results in their death. The sentence would be doubled if the sale results in serious bodily injury. A person who manufactures a drug in the presence of a minor or sells a drug to a minor would be subject to twice the penalty otherwise imposed by law.

The bill also would heighten the sentence for selling or manufacturing fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid.

Under the bill, selling or manufacturing more than 50 grams of a substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl would be a class B felony, punishable by up to 50 years in prison and a fine of up to $1 million. Sale or manufacture of between 5 and 50 grams of fentanyl would also be a Class B felony, punishable by up to 25 years in prison and a fine of up to $100,000. Sale or manufacture of less than 5 grams of a mixture containing fentanyl would be a Class C felony, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine between $1,000 and $50,000.

Access to naloxone and similar medications, which reverse the effects of an overdose, would be expanded under the bill. The bill would expand who can dispense the medications to include law enforcement agencies, school districts, county health programs and others.

The Food and Drug administration approved the first over-the-counter version of naloxone, under the brand name Narcan, in March.

Reynolds, a Republican, pitched the bill at the beginning of this year's legislative session as a way to curb an increase in overdoses, largely driven by fentanyl, in recent years. Fentanyl is around 50 times stronger than heroin. It is often found mixed with other opioids, and it is increasingly found in counterfeit pills designed to look like prescription opioids.

In a statement on Monday, Reynolds said she would soon sign the bill, and she placed the blame for an increase in fentanyl presence in the U.S. on President Joe Biden's administration's enforcement of southern border policies.

Thats why Ive taken this fight head on and will sign this bill as soon as it hits my desk, she said. While cracking down on drug crimes will help, we know its only half the battle. Raising awareness about the dangers of fentanyl is the other, and as governor I am fighting on both fronts.

While Iowa has among the lowest drug overdose rates of the 50 states, rates have been rising in recent years, following national trends. In 2021, 475 Iowans died of a drug overdose, and fentanyl was involved in 83% of those deaths, according to Reynolds office.

Janice Weiner, D-Iowa City who opposed the bill, said increasing penalties would not help address addiction and overdoses, and she urged harm-reduction measures like focusing on treatment and legalizing fentanyl test strips. Fentanyl test strips can test a substance to determine if fentanyl is present, allowing people using drugs to know what is in a substance before using it.

House Democrats offered an amendment to legalize fentanyl test strips when the bill passed the House, but the amendment failed largely along party lines.

I really would love for us to focus on helping the people with the disorder because putting someone behind bars after someone's already dead isn't going to help them, Weiner said.

Photos: Sudan battles intensify
DES MOINES  Lately, Republican state lawmakers are being more selective with their words during debate in the Iowa Legislature, sometimes refusing to answer Democrats questions. The change is a reaction to a recent Iowa Supreme Court ruling that referred to legislative floor debate.

Senate Republicans, as a general rule, will no longer answer Democrats questions during floor debate, Iowa Senate Majority Leader Jack Whitver, a Republican from Grimes, told reporters late Monday.

And late last week, while debating gun regulation legislation, Rep. Steve Holt, a Republican from Denison who managed the bill in the Iowa House, told Democrats on multiple occasions that he would not answer questions that posed hypothetical scenarios.

Whitver and Holt both cited an Iowa Supreme Court ruling from March as their reasoning for being tight-lipped during floor debate. The courts ruling dealt with 2020 legislation that granted incumbent Iowa utility companies a right of first refusal that would have prevented competitive bidding on future projects.

In its ruling, the court noted the proposal did not go through the normal legislative steps, and asserted that legislators did not know what they were voting on because the bill was produced for the first time earlier the same day it was passed.

In LS Power Mid Continent and Southwest Transmission v State of Iowa, the Iowa Supreme Court indicated it wanted to use floor debate to determine the ambiguous definition of legislative intent. I believe legislative intent is the content of the law passed by a majority of the Iowa Legislature, Whitver said in his statement. In light of that decision, Senate Republicans do not expect to engage in spontaneous and speculative discussions of legislative intent during floor debate until that question is resolved.

That revelation caused a riff in legislative debate late Monday, resulting in the session spilling into the early hours of Tuesday. Upset with majority Republicans decision to stonewall their questions on legislation that would relax some labor regulations for teenagers, Democrats called for multiple caucus meetings that helped extend debate on the bill to roughly seven hours with a vote finally cast at 5 a.m. Tuesday.

Iowa Senate Minority Leader Zach Wahls, a Democrat from Coralville, called Senate Republicans decision to refuse to answer questions a really serious breach of tradition in the Iowa Senate and a really sad development for the state of our democracy in our state.

This is the highest deliberative body in the state of Iowa, and Senate Republicans are refusing to deliberate, Wahls said. When you dont have the ability to actually debate and answer questions, what you are left with is  government behind closed doors, government without oversight, government without accountability. A government that has more corruption, that isnt delivering for people.

Whitver, in his statement, asserted that, The legislative process remains.

It will continue to evaluate proposed policy, collect feedback from Iowans, and develop law to move the state forward, Whitver said.

Republican House Speaker Pat Grassley, from New Hartford, has not established a policy for all House Republicans, but has had conversations with Republicans who manage bills about erring on the side of caution regarding hypotheticals and other questions during debate, Grassleys spokeswoman said.

In the Iowa Supreme Court ruling on LS Power Mid Continent and Southwest Transmission v the State of Iowa and Iowa Utilities Board, Justice Thomas Waterman, writing on behalf of a unanimous, four-justice decision (three justices recused themselves), criticized Senate Republican lawmakers for the manner in which legislation was passed and noted that the bills sponsor, former Iowa Sen. Michael Breitbach, gave inaccurate responses and expressed ignorance about who backed the proposal.

The Supreme Court ruled that the utility companies were entitled to an injunction that postponed enforcement of the right of first refusal provision until its constitutionality can be determined.
Fate.

Thats how Clayton Anderson described the opportunity to lead the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum near his hometown of Ashland.

For Nebraskas lone astronaut, the opportunity to reinvigorate a 25-year-old museum located on a hill that he played on as a child was enticing. But he said it required careful thought as he and his family would be leaving Houston, a city they had called home for 42 years.

My wife and I talked a lot. We prayed a lot, Anderson, 64, told the Omaha Press Club on Thursday. My wife kept saying, We need to do this. And in my heart, it seemed like fate to come home, to run this museum in my hometown on a hill that I crawled on. It just seemed like what I should do.

After assurances from museum leaders they would fully support him, Anderson moved from being a long-distance board member to president and CEO last May.

Despite a resume that included 167 days in space and six spacewalks, the first days of leading a museum proved to be a bigger challenge than he had anticipated.

Now almost one year into his tenure, Anderson believes he made the right decision. He stressed the need for partnerships with other area attractions  specifically mentioning Joslyn Art Museum and the Kiewit Luminarium, which opens Saturday  and people willing to submit ideas to help make the museum a gem of the Midwest.

I believe it should be the best STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) educational facility in the region, he said.

During Andersons leadership tenure, the SAC Museum has placed a greater emphasis on the future, as opposed to just the history of military aviation. That includes bringing an interactive exhibit allowing visitors to see the world from space and experience a flight to Mars, among other adventures. Anderson said he also wants to bring a trailer with interactive museum exhibits to festivals such as the Nebraska State Fair and county fairs.

Anderson said the museum also is enhancing its exhibits of vintage military aircraft. He said an interactive replica of a B-36 bomber is being made by the College of Engineering at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

The 60-foot replica will give attendees the opportunity to experience how crew members had to travel from the front to the back of the airplane, sliding on a skateboard-like device through a narrow tunnel as they pulled themselves with a rope.

Thats what its about. Take that static airplane and make it an interactive exhibit, Anderson said.

Anderson said continued additions are imperative for the museum to bring more people to the museum.

When you bring your kids, your grandkids or you just come to my museum, I want you to walk in the door, walk a few feet and say, Hey, thats new! That wasnt here before, " he said.

Photos: Restoring the B-29 bomberhangar bombermotor bomberbay bomberbreak bomberpaint B-29 bombs B-29 inside B-29 cockpit B-29 clean
Chinese young blood devote to Great Wall protection

11:06, April 18, 2023 By Fei Yang, Wang Jintao, Zhang Tengyang ( People's Daily

Lu Tingting is on an inspection tour of the Great Wall. (People's Daily/Wang Jintao)

In a chilly wind, a young woman skillfully set up a portable meteorological device on a tripod and recorded the wind direction, temperature, humidity and other data, despite her windswept hair.

"These data offer important support for preserving the Great Wall," said the millennial girl Lu Tingting, who grew up in Jiayuguan, a city in northwest China's Gansu province. It's home to Jiayu Pass, the western start of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) Great Wall.

After she graduated with a master's degree, she returned to her hometown and worked for the relics protection department of the Great Wall conservation institute under the Jiayuguan (Great Wall) Silk Road Culture Research Institute.

The Great Wall is so far the largest cultural heritage and one with the widest geographical span in China. However, some parts of it are dilapidated today due to natural erosion, human activities, environmental changes and other factors.

Conservation thus is urgent for the aging Great Wall. Over recent years, as China accelerates the building of the Great Wall national cultural parks, more efforts have been made in the protection and research of the cultural heritage.

Many young generations, including Lu, are engaged in the protection of the Great Wall. With expertise and passion, they are contributing their strength to revitalize the ancient structure in the new era.

Guo Hongxiu splits the thorns during a patrol. (People's Daily/Zhang Tengyang)

Lu has been working to protect the wild Great Wall for more than three years. Every month, she went on more than 400 inspection tours to some 30 sites of immovable cultural relics scattered in the Gobi desert, mountains, forests and other areas where people are rarely seen.

After three years, Lu has gained a significantly deeper understanding of the Great Wall. Now she's become an expert in using all kinds of tools and instruments, and she knows well the features and formation of various "diseases" of the Great Wall, such as surface weathering, exfoliation and cracking.

The conservation of the Great Wall calls for perseverance. The ancient Chinese fortifications, mostly located in remote areas with complex topography, stretch thousands of kilometers. In some sections, there's no paved path, so people engaged have to climb on their hands and knees in order to finish their work. It's a lonely task away from the hustle and bustle of the cities.

Guo Hongxiu is a 32-year-old Great Wall ranger located in Sangyuan village, Lulong county, Qinhuangdao, north China's Hebei province. He goes on patrols all year round with his motorcycle over the bumpy mountainous roads, which is also a tradition of his family started by his grandfather in the 1980s.

As the third-generation Great Wall ranger in his family, Guo recalled that his grandfather often took him on patrols when he was a child. "Grandpa always said that the Great Wall is a valuable asset of the Chinese nation and it carries history, so it must be well protected," Guo told People's Daily.

Shang Heng, a young man born in 1984, started working for the Beijing Institute of Cultural Relics, or what's known today as the Beijing Institute of Archaeology, in 2010. He has joined and hosted many archaeological excavation projects of the Great Wall and completed multiple research programs in the past dozen years. He has been to many sites along the Great Wall on foot for research over the past two decades, covering over 3,000 kilometers.

Photo shows a section of the Great Wall in Luanping county, Chengde, north China's Hebei province. (People's Daily Online/Zhou Wanping)

The conservation of the Great Wall calls for innovation. The Great Wall was built and renovated in different dynasties with various building materials and techniques. Therefore, the preservation of it is not an easy task.

Thanks to the ceaseless efforts made by relevant parties, new approaches and achievements of Great Wall studies and protection have kept emerging these years.

Shang, in cooperation with experts in ancient architecture, materials and botany, has turned rescue-oriented renovation of the Great Wall into comprehensive conservation with research and repair. The conservation combines archaeological excavation, multidisciplinary research and digital tracking records, opening a new chapter of Great Wall conservation.

The application of new technologies has placed the Great Wall under better protection. "Relying on precise data, we have incorporated regular monitoring in the routine inspection. We are using digital monitors for inspection, image data collection and patrols every month," said Lu.

With advanced equipment, such as drones, she can complete inspections more easily and analyze the cause and development of "diseases" based on the data collected, thus providing science-based maintenance solutions.

The innovative conservation has well protected the authenticity, completeness and security of the Great Wall. It is believed that a great synergy will be forged through innovative practices and exploration to inject ceaseless impetus into the protection of cultural heritage and the inheritance of history.

(Web editor: Chang Sha, Du Mingming)
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis threatens Disney World on Monday. He floats the idea of building a state prison next to the iconic amusement park.

The latest remark of DeSantis against the House of Mouse comes right after the giant American firm publicly opposed his state-sponsored "Don't Say Gay Bill," also known as the Parental Right in Education Act. The Florida Gov. now shared his plan to build a prison near the famous tourist spot in the state.

DeSantis Plans to Build Prison Next to Disney World

As per a report by The Independent, DeSantis' shared with reporters his new plans in retaliation to Disney's opposition to the "Don't Say Gay Bill." This time, he is pushing to construct a prison on the state land next to the popular tourist spot.

The Florida governor told reporters in Lake Buena Vista, the location of the massive theme park of the House of Mouse when he plans to erect a new state prison. He also shared some suggestions on what to do with the state land near Disney World.

The Republican politician says, "People have said maybe create a state park, maybe try to do more amusement parks." He adds that someone reminded him, saying, "You need another state prison." DeSantis told reporters that "Who knows? I just think that the possibilities are endless."

In the same press conference, the governor stated, "We want to make sure that Disney lives under the same laws as everybody else," Fox 35 Colorado reports.

Read Also: Anti-Woke Florida Republicans Seek To Ban Gender Studies Majors at Universities

DeSantis vs. Disney

USA Today notes that the ongoing feud between DeSantis and Disney began when the latter made its opposing stand against the "Don't Say Gay Bill" public. The idea to build a prison next to the theme park differs from his first retaliation move. The Republican politician pushed legislation last year to remove the self-governing status of the House of Mouse in Florida.

However, in a surprise turn of events, Disney successfully turned things around, nullifying the state's authority before the new law took effect. DeSantis previously slammed the American conglomerate for what he dubs as being too "woke." His remark came after the giant firm publicly opposed his Parental Rights in Education Act.

Besides the latest threat to build a prison next to Disney World, the governor also raised the idea of increasing the property value tax of the theme park owner.

It is worth noting that the Florida Governor is expected to run for president of the United States (US) in the next few weeks. Thus, DeSantis, who has an ongoing feud against Disney, is currently the presumptive 2024 presidential candidate.

Related Article: Florida's 6-Week Abortion Ban Signed Into Law by Governor Ron DeSantis

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Judging by opinion polls, Donald Trump looks to be the overwhelming favorite for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, while Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is the clear alternative. But news from South Carolina suggests that Republicans arent nearly as sold on Trump as the polling suggests.

Sen. Tim Scott declared last week he is officially exploring a presidential run. In practical terms, that means the campaign he started some time ago is becoming a bit more formal. How serious is his bid? When asked whether he would support Trump if the former president were to win the Republican nomination, Scott said: I plan on being the nominee.

On the surface, Scotts chances dont appear fantastic. Hes running at about 1% of the vote nationally in the polls that bother to include him. Even a survey of likely Republican voters in his home state of South Carolina had him at only 7%, well behind former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley and DeSantis, who in turn were some 20 percentage points behind Trump. Indeed, Trump has been gradually gaining in national polling and now gets about half of all Republican voters in these very early soundings.

And yet Scott is jumping in. He joins the three formally declared candidates with conventional credentials  Trump, Haley and former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson  as well as a half-dozen or more contenders including DeSantis and former Vice President Mike Pence who are expected to announce campaigns soon.

That all these candidates are moving forward indicates they believe the contest is up for grabs, which means they are hearing that message from people active within the Republican Party. Traditional politicians such as Scott and Haley care about their reputations and would be reluctant to move further down the campaign trail if the signs pointed strongly to one candidate.

Indeed, the stature of the Republicans challenging Trump is a strong sign that the party doesnt see Trump  or even a Trump-DeSantis pairing  as overwhelming favorites.

The hard evidence we have says the same thing. Trump has a lot more party backing than he did during his 2016 run, but it doesn't come close to the support that former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton had in 2016 or then-Vice President Al Gore had in 2000. So far, current elected officials endorsing Trump include two governors, six senators and 41 members of the House. Thats not bad. But its more similar to Joe Bidens early endorsement lead in the 2020 contest than a truly impressive show of strength for a candidate who, after all, has the strongest on-paper credentials of any nomination candidate in more than 100 years.

Of course, Trump had practically no party support at all in 2016 and won anyway, albeit narrowly. There is every possibility he will win more easily this time, given far less resistance to him now than then. At the same time, for a former president and two-time nominee, the opposition he faces from some within the Republican Party is apparently convincing enough to Scott and others that they think taking him on is a viable option.

As for DeSantis, his endorsements from some eight members of the House arent going to scare anyone.

Trumps polling lead is a nice asset, but its too early to know how many of those who currently say they would vote for him will still support him once they learn something about the alternatives.

And thats before we see how Trumps legal trouble plays out. So far, his polling numbers have risen a bit after the news from his indictment in New York, but there will certainly be more news, and very likely more indictments, to come.

Scott has plenty of work to do even if Trump fades and DeSantis fails to build on his early successes. So far Scott has shown a knack for sticking with the mainstream of the party without angering anyone. That could create an appealing contrast to the other candidates, but it also might leave him without an opening to take on his rivals.

Is Scott likely to be the nominee? No. But what Scott is hearing must suggest that Trump isnt a sure thing and that DeSantis isnt a beloved second choice. Thats a situation that Scott  or one of the other seeming long shots  could capitalize on.
KHARTOUM, Sudan (AP)  Fighting raged in Sudan on Tuesday hours after an internationally brokered truce was supposed to have come into effect, as forces loyal to dueling generals battled for key locations in the capital and accused each other of violating the cease-fire.

The humanitarian truce came after days of intense efforts by top diplomats on four continents and had raised hopes of sparing Africa's third largest country from civil war. But each side still appeared determined to vanquish the other, despite the suffering of millions of civilians trapped by the fighting.

Residents said they still heard gunfire and explosions in different parts of the capital, Khartoum, particularly around the militarys headquarters and the Republican Palace. They said few people had ventured out, though there were crowds outside some bakeries.

The fighting remains underway, Atiya Abdulla Atiya of the Sudan Doctors Syndicate told The Associated Press. We are hearing constant gunfire.

Sudanese in the capital and in other cities have been hiding in their homes, caught in the crossfire as rival forces pounded residential areas with artillery and airstrikes and engaged in gunbattles outside. Residents say dead bodies in the streets are unreachable because of clashes, with the toll likely to be far higher than the 185 dead reported by the U.N. since fighting began Saturday.

The conflict between the armed forces, led by Gen. Abdel Fattah Burhan, and a paramilitary group known as the Rapid Support Forces, led by Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, has once again derailed Sudan's transition to democratic rule after decades of dictatorship and civil war.

Pro-democracy groups and political parties had recently reached an agreement with the two generals  who jointly led a 2021 coup  but it was never signed and is now in tatters.

The RSF immediately accused the military of violating the cease-fire after it came into effect at 6 p.m. local time (1600 GMT). The army said the rebellious militia continued its attacks around the military headquarters and launched a failed attack on a military base to the south.

Atiya said the Fadil Hospital in Khartoum was hit by shelling after the truce took effect, damaging a medical gas pipeline and water systems. Its one of at least 12 hospitals in and around the capital that have been forced to shut down because of the fighting, out of a total of around 20.

The U.S. Embassy said late Tuesday that there has been ongoing fighting in Khartoum and surrounding areas, and advised Americans in Sudan to shelter in place. It said there were no immediate plans for a government-coordinated evacuation.

Over the past day, fighters in Khartoum attacked a U.S. Embassy convoy and stormed the home of the EU envoy to Sudan, though neither attack caused casualties. The convoy of clearly marked U.S. Embassy vehicles was attacked Monday, and preliminary reports link the assailants to the RSF, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters.

Blinken spoke by phone late Monday separately with both generals, seeking a 24-hour halt in fighting as a foundation for a longer truce and return to negotiations. Egypt, which backs the Sudanese military, and Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, which have close ties to the RSF, have also been calling on all sides to stand down.

Dagalo said in a series of tweets Tuesday that he had approved a 24-hour humanitarian truce after speaking to Blinken. The military initially said the coming hours would bring the crushing defeat of the RSF and only publicly committed to the truce after it began.

Shortly before the start of the cease-fire, a coalition of political parties and pro-democracy groups said it received positive positions from leaders of the military and the RSF on the daylong humanitarian pause. It said in a statement that discussions were underway to solidify that truce.

More tanks and armored vehicles belonging to the military rolled into Khartoum early Tuesday, heading toward the militarys headquarters and the Republican Palace, residents said. During the night, fighter jets swooped overhead and anti-aircraft fire lit up the sky.

Each side already has tens of thousands of troops distributed around Khartoum and the city of Omdurman on the opposite bank of the Nile River. Terrified residents trapped in their homes for days have hoped for a halt long enough at least to get supplies or move to safer areas. The fighting erupted suddenly at the start of the last week of the Islamic holy month of fasting, Ramadan.

We are trying to take advantage of Ramadan to try to continue our faith and prayer," said Mohammed Al Faki, one of 89 students and staffers trapped in the engineering building at Khartoum University. "We are trying to help each other stay patient until this crisis is over.

One student was killed by a sniper, he said, and they buried his body on the campus. The students and staff have had to go out for supplies occasionally, risking harassment by RSF fighters battling troops nearby, he said.

They are attacking us on the streets. They are looting. If you are walking, they will take even your phone from you in the street, the 19-year-old student said of the RSF.

U.N. figures have put the toll from fighting at more than 185 dead and 1,800 wounded, without providing a breakdown of civilians and combatants. The Sudan Doctors Syndicate said Tuesday that at least 144 civilians were killed and more than 1,400 wounded but that many dead could still not be reached to be counted.

Videos posted online Tuesday showed Souq al-Bahri, a large outdoor market in northern Khartoum, in flames from nearby clashes. Satellite images from Maxar Technologies taken Monday showed damage across Khartoum, including to security service buildings. Tanks stood guard at a bridge over the White Nile River and other locations.

Satellite images from Planet Labs PBC, also taken Monday, showed some 20 damaged civilian and military aircraft at Khartoum International Airport, which has a military section. Some had been completely destroyed, with one still belching smoke. At the El Obeid and Merowe air bases, north and south of Khartoum, several fighter jets were among the destroyed aircraft.

The European Unions foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, tweeted Monday that the EU ambassador to Sudan was assaulted in his own residency, without providing further details.

A Western diplomat in Cairo said the residence was ransacked by armed men in RSF uniforms. No one was hurt but the armed men stole several items, said the diplomat, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to talk to the media.

Early on Sunday, the Norwegian ambassadors residence was hit by a shell, causing damage but no injuries, Norwegian Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt said.

The fighting is the latest chapter in Sudan's turmoil since a popular uprising four years ago helped depose long-time autocrat Omar al-Bashir.

Burhan and Dagalo jointly orchestrated an October 2021 coup, derailing efforts to enshrine a civilian government. Both generals have a long history of human rights abuses, and their forces have cracked down on pro-democracy activists.
Are surface temperature records reliable?

What the science says...

Select a level... Basic Intermediate Advanced The warming trend is the same in rural and urban areas, measured by thermometers and satellites, and by natural thermometers.

At a glance

It's important to understand one thing above all: the vast majority of climate change denialism / skepticism / call-it-what-you-likeism does not occur in the world of science, but on the internet. Specifically in the blog-world: anyone can blog or have a social media account and say whatever they want to say. And they do. We all saw plenty of that during the Covid-19 pandemic, seemingly offering an open invitation to step up and proclaim, I KNOW BETTER THAN ALL THOSE SCIENTISTS!

So anyway, at one time in the recent past, certain dubious individuals from the blogosphere had a go at discrediting temperature records. They thought that if temperature records could be discredited, then it followed that global warming could be declared a hoax. Never mind all the other indicators pointing firmly at warming, such as huge reductions in sea ice, poleward migrations of all sorts of species, retreating glaciers and rising seas.

But they forgot one thing. Professional climate scientists already knew a great deal about things that can cause positive outliers in temperature datasets. One example will suffice. When compiling temperature records, NASA's Goddard Institute for Space Studies goes to great pains to remove any possible influence from things like the urban heat island effect. That effect describes the fact that densely built-up parts of cities are likely to be a bit warmer due to all of that human activity.

How they do this is to take the urban temperature trends and compare them to the rural trends of the surrounding countryside. They then adjust the urban trend so it matches the rural trend  thereby removing that urban effect. This is not 'tampering' with data: it's a tried and tested method of removing local outliers from regional trends to get more realistic results.

As this methodology was being developed, some findings were surprising at first glance. Often, excess urban warming was small in magnitude. Even more surprisingly, a significant percentage of city trends were cooler relative to their country surroundings. But that's because weather stations are often sited in relatively cool areas within a city, such as parks.

Finally, there have been independent analyses of global temperature datasets that have reached the same conclusions as NASA, such as the University of California, Berkeley's BEST study. The physicist who initiated that study was formerly a climate change skeptic. Not so much now!

Please use this form to provide feedback about this new "At a glance" section. Read a more technical version below or dig deeper via the tabs above!

Further details

Temperature data are essential for predicting the weather and recording climate trends. So organisations like the U.S. National Weather Service, and indeed every national weather service around the world, require temperatures to be measured as accurately as possible. To understand climate change we also need to be sure we can trust historical measurements.

Surface temperature measurements are collected from more than 30,000 stations around the world (Rennie et al. 2014). About 7000 of these have long, consistent monthly records. As technology gets better, stations are updated with newer equipment. When equipment is updated or stations are moved, the new data is compared to the old record to be sure measurements are consistent over time.

Figure 1. Station locations with at least 1 month of data in the monthly Global Historical Climatology Network (GHCN-M). This set of 7280 stations are used in the global land surface databank. (Rennie et al. 2014) In 2009 allegations were made in the blogosphere that weather stations placed in what some thought to be 'poor' locations could make the temperature record unreliable (and therefore, in certain minds, global warming would be shown to be a flawed concept). Scientists at the National Climatic Data Center took those allegations very seriously. They undertook a careful study of the possible problem and published the results in 2010. The paper, "On the reliability of the U.S. surface temperature record" (Menne et al. 2010), had an interesting conclusion. The temperatures from stations that the self-appointed critics claimed were "poorly sited" actually showed slightly cooler maximum daily temperatures compared to the average. Around the same time, a physicist who was originally hostile to the concept of anthropogenic global warming, Dr. Richard Muller, decided to do his own temperature analysis. This proposal was loudly cheered in certain sections of the blogosphere where it was assumed the work would, wait for it, disprove global warming. To undertake the work, Muller organized a group called Berkeley Earth to do an independent study (Berkeley Earth Surface Temperature study or BEST) of the temperature record. They specifically wanted to answer the question, is the temperature rise on land improperly affected by the four key biases (station quality, homogenization, urban heat island, and station selection)?" The BEST project had the goal of merging all of the worlds temperature data sets into a common data set. It was a huge challenge. Their eventual conclusions, after much hard analytical toil, were as follows: 1) The accuracy of the land surface temperature record was confirmed; 2) The BEST study used more data than previous studies but came to essentially the same conclusion; 3) The influence of the urban stations on the global record is very small and, if present at all, is biased on the cool side. Muller commented: I was not expecting this, but as a scientist, I feel it is my duty to let the evidence change my mind. On that, certain parts of the blogosphere went into a state of meltdown. The lesson to be learned from such goings on is, be careful what you wish for. Presuming that improving temperature records will remove or significantly lower the global warming signal is not the wisest of things to do. The BEST conclusions about the urban heat effect were nicely explained by our late colleague, Andy Skuce, in a post here at Skeptical Science in 2011. Figure 2 shows BEST plotted against several other major global temperature datasets. There may be some disagreement between individual datasets, especially towards the start of the record in the 19th Century, but the trends are all unequivocally the same.

Figure 2. Comparison of spatially gridded minimum temperatures for U.S. Historical Climatology Network (USHCN) data adjusted for time-of-day (TOB) only, and selected for rural or urban neighborhoods after homogenization to remove biases. (Hausfather et al. 2013)

Finally, temperatures measured on land are only one part of understanding the climate. We track many indicators of climate change to get the big picture. All indicators point to the same conclusion: the global temperature is increasing.

See also

Understanding adjustments to temperature data, Zeke Hausfather

Explainer: How data adjustments affect global temperature records, Zeke Hausfather

Time-of-observation Bias, John Hartz

Berkeley Earth Surface Temperature Study: The effect of urban heating on the global trends is nearly negligible, Andy Skuce

Check original data

All the Berkeley Earth data and analyses are available online at http://berkeleyearth.org/data/.

Plot your own temperature trends with Kevin's calculator.

Or plot the differences with rural, urban, or selected regions with another calculator by Kevin.

NASA GISS Surface Temperature Analysis (GISSTEMP) describes how NASA handles the urban heat effect and links to current data.

NOAA Global Historical Climate Network (GHCN) Daily. GHCN-Daily contains records from over 100,000 stations in 180 countries and territories.

Last updated on 14 February 2023 by John Mason. View Archives
Just when it seemed like the trial for Dominion Voting Systems defamation lawsuit against Fox News was ready to begin, the case had another surprise delay, and then a shocker: The two parties would be settling, after all.

Tuesday was to be the first official day for the high-stakes Dominion v. Fox News proceedings, in which the plaintiff sought $1.6 billion in damages from Fox for broadcasting false claims that Dominions voting machines had been rigged in order to steal votes from President Donald Trump during the 2020 election. Initially filed in March 2021, the suit pressed forward last month after the Delaware Superior Court ruled that a trial by jury should determine whether Fox acted maliciously when its hosts lied on air about Dominions activities. The trial was to be a high-profile affair, with Fox employees set to take the stand; now, the case has been settled for $787.5 million, according to Dominion lawyer Justin Nelson, speaking at a press conference just now.

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In response to the news, Dominion CEO John Poulos stated that Fox has admitted to telling lies about Dominion. Fox put a different gloss on the settlement in a statement: We acknowledge the courts rulings finding certain claims about Dominion to be false. This settlement reflects Foxs continued commitment to the highest journalistic standards. We are hopeful that our decision to resolve this dispute with Dominion amicably, instead of the acrimony of a divisive trial, allows the country to move forward from these issues.

Heres how the drama unfolded in the courthouse, where Slates Justin Peters has been posted.

At 3:54 p.m., after an unexplained delay of almost two and a half hours, Judge Eric Davis returned to Courtroom 7E and took his seat. As he did so, Dominion lawyer Justin Nelson rushed down the aisle to his seat at the front of the courtroom. Were lining up the jury, Davis said, directing his next words to Nelson. Everything good? All well?

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Yes, your honor, Nelson said.

Any big difference in what we talked about earlier as to what were going to do?

Nelson and opposing counsel Dan Webb briefly approached the bench. When they returned to their seats, the bailiffs brought the jury into the room, and Judge Davis spoke to them. The parties have resolved the case, and that means that your service is done, he said. Your presence here was extremely important, and without you, the parties would not have been able to resolve their situation. By 3:59 p.m., the jurors had been excused and had left the courtroom.

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Before adjourning, Davis praised the assembled attorneys for the quality of their work. Ive been on the bench since 2012, andI think I said this earlierI think these are the best lawyers Ive had, ever, he said. I know people have been reporting things, and they try to make it look like Im mad, but I want to say Ive never had this good of lawyering here in 13 years.  I just want to say Im proud to have been your judge.

Outside the courtroom, Slates reporter sat down on a bench and worked to file a quick piece. Thank you, Jesus, one woman was overheard saying in the empty hallway.
Lee Sung Jins Beef takes place in California, home of the largest population of South Korean immigrants in the U.S., as well as the highest concentration of Korean churches. For many who were raised in the Korean American church, the Netflix series depiction of it as a source of refuge and redemption is terrifying in its accuracy. For some of us, church is like a toxic, co-dependent ex; even though you know the relationship isnt healthy and is sometimes fraught with endless expectations and conditions, you cant help but want their love. Thats because Korean Americans and church need each other: financially, emotionally, and spiritually.

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Lee, the shows creator, and Steven Yeun, who plays Danny, agreed on the importance of including the church in Beefs story because it was such a big part of both of their upbringings. Christian motifs are scattered throughout the series, from the biblical names of Daniel, his brother Paul, and their cousin Isaac, to the name of Daniels landscaping company, the CHOsen Ones.

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Koreans often validate one another with the phrase Gosaeng manh-i haess-eoyo, which translates to Youve suffered a lot. In Beef, Danny suffers endlessly: financially, romantically, filially, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. However, it is only in the scenes at church, and later in his life-changing, poisonous berryinduced reverie with Ali Wongs Amy, that his suffering receives the validation hes been in desperate need of since childhood, when he was bullied by white peers for being different.

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Regardless of religious beliefs, every Korean immigrant starts life in America at the church. Its the one place where they know they can find community and people like them in this strange and foreign world. For Korean Americans, church is more than just a place of worship. Its a place to conduct business, market, network, socialize, and find a spouse.

Korean culture highly stigmatizes attention to mental health; as Danny says, Western therapy doesnt work on Eastern minds. But church is the one place all Korean Americans know they can go where they wont be shamed for crying, feeling, and asking for help. Research has shown that suppressed emotions return through violence toward others and the self, like how Dannys repressed depression manifests as suicidality and road rage that escalates throughout the series. For a culture known for its K-rage and the concept of han, when one feels that an injustice has been done to them, resulting in intense grief, anger, and emotional outbursts, Koreans need some kind of outlet to release and let goand for many Korean Americans, that outlet is church.

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In Beefs third episode, I Am Inhabited by a Cry, we see Danny return to church, in a scene that feels all too familiar. Celestial sunlight seeps through the blinds illuminating the church band as the gentle sounds of the guitar, the keyboard, and the words Jesus is calling harmoniously fill the space around him. He is immediately surrounded by fellow Koreans, their bodies swaying to the music, hands up in the air and pointing to the heavens, and eyes closed in a trance, as tears stream down their faces. Almost every Korean American has been here before, in a room full of Christians where race doesnt matter because, at church, were all one under God. Upon watching this scene, an immediate visceral sensation elicits memories that, for some of us, weve tried hard to forget. However, we see Danny transition from looking awkward and out of place to fully letting go and releasing all the tension and emotions hes been trying desperately to contain as his tears turn into full-on sobs while the band sings, Are you hurting and broken within? This cathartic moment becomes spiritual for all of us. I really felt something today, Danny says. I actually felt Gods presence, signifying that he finally felt as if he wasnt all alone anymoreand we felt that, too.

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Nonetheless, as welcoming as Korean churches can be, they can also be harmful and traumatic. Unlike the more regulated mental health field, churches have the dangerous potential to exploit the emotionally vulnerable. (See another recent Netflix show, In the Name of God: A Holy Betrayal, a documentary about Korean cult leaders.) Later in the same episode, when Danny concocts a scheme to scam the church for his construction business, his lack of remorse is understandable and feels almost justified, despite his nice guy persona.

However, Dannys relationship with the church isnt so black-and-white. In the sixth episode, We Draw a Magic Circle, we witness Dannys growing discomfort as he watches his cousin Isaac desecrate the church service, overenthusiastically yelling Hallelujah! and making a scene while singing praise songs. Danny doesnt have a problem scamming from church; he does have a problem with disrespecting God.

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Beefs seventh episode begins with Danny as the new leader of the church band, singing a modernized version of Amazing Grace. We see a dejected Edwin, the former leader of the church band and Dannys rival, sulking in the back of the pews, his status in the congregation diminished as the rest of the crowd, including Edwins wife and Dannys ex-girlfriend, cheers Danny on as if hes a rock star. Danny, now a successful businessman who has built his parents a new house, is loved, adored, and approved of in the eyes of God and the church. People, including Paul, look up to him. He shows no remorse or guilt that his success came at the price of Isaac ending up back in jail, and despite the immorality of his actions, hes outwardly become the ultimate man of God. When Paul makes fun of Edwin and Veronicas deteriorating marriage, Danny piously says, Thats not how we react to a brother and sister going through a tough time. We pray for them.

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On the other hand, we see that Edwin has completely fallen from grace. Now the depressed and lonely one, he later approaches Danny in his apartment office and tells him hes not afraid to get his hands dirty, insinuating that he knows that Dannys success must be through illegal activity. Edwins willingness to compromise his values and ethics in an ungodly way to regain his status and worth is another example of hypocrisy in the church and the very human need for recognition and social connection.

The church scenes in Beef illustrate how, for Korean Americans, Christianity is a means to gain acceptance and belonging; these basic needs often go unmet for immigrant families like Dannys who are struggling to assimilate and make ends meet. The Korean American church represents a smaller, more contained version of the struggle to be seen and to feel worthy. Its a lot easier to outsource this validation to a benevolent God than to find it within, especially if you grew up as a minority, constantly othered and confronted with racism, with low self-esteem, and with an absence of emotional nurturing that has prevented you from developing intrinsic self-worth. For a respite from a collectivist culture that glorifies suffering, Korean Americans have turned to the church as a safe haven to gain affirmation for their hardships, a confidence boost, and salvation in a world that struggles to see us for who we really are.

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Nevertheless, even at Dannys highest, he asks Amy, the woman who appears as if shes got it all, if shes happy, because he just wants to know if he has to get to where she is in order to finally be at peace. Amys answerEverything fades. Nothing lasts. Were just a snake eating its own tailimplies that all of the accolades and external validation in the world can never actually fill the emptiness inside. As they say, money cant buy happiness. Many of those who have left the church have found their own source of internal validation and self-worth, and their lives arent so contingent on others approval. Its not that Danny has failed the church or the church has failed himits more that suffering is a part of living. Once you accept this, which both Danny and Amy seem to in what they believe are their final moments, the easier it becomes to cope with life.
Can I still listen to David Bowie? Thats the question the essayist Claire Dederer hears over and over when speaking at colleges. Bowie had been a hero of Dederers own youth and of her adulthood, a musician whose strangeness reassured Dederer and her fellow misfits that when we ourselves felt alien, we might take comfort in the idea that we lived among a secret race, our true family. But after Bowies death in 2016, an as-told-to article in Thrillist resurfaced in which a groupie revealed that she had lost her virginity to the rock star at the age of 15. All of a sudden, the bedroom door opens and there is Bowie in this fucking beautiful red and orange and yellow kimono, the woman, Lori Mattix, recalled with wistful pleasure, but many contemporary readers didnt see it that way.

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Maybe a rock star deflowering an extremely willing groupie in the 1970s doesnt seem particularly horrifying to you. (Who wouldnt want to lose their virginity to David Bowie? Mattix said.) But when you believe an act to be wrong and regard the person committing it to be an avatar of yourself, its hard not to feel betrayed and even implicated in the misdeedand wonder what that means for the art you once loved. The story left Dedererand, apparently, a lot of college studentsfeeling horrified and sad. Were it some other, more conventional rocker of the period, that would be tolerable, but not our guy. Could they still listen to Bowie? How could they not?

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Monsters: A Fans Dilemma is Dederers book-length exploration of those two questions, expanded from an essay she published in the Paris Review in 2017, What Do We Do With the Art of Monstrous Men? It wrestles with how sheas a reader, filmgoer, art lover, and audience membernegotiates the difference between her moral values and what she calls her art love. The book is tangled and fascinating, chasing down arguments and questions that cant always be easily resolved. Dederers shrewd, vivid descriptions of movies and books suggest just how much they mean to her and how deeply any sacrifices on the altar of contemporary sexual ethics might cut.

Slate receives a commission when you purchase items using the links on this page. Thank you for your support.

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Dederers most difficult conundrums involve two filmmakers: Roman Polanski and Woody Allen. Long before #MeToo, Dederer struggled with her love for the mens work in light of their personal behavior. Polanski drugged and raped a 13-year-old girl in Los Angeles in 1977, and in a plea bargain pleaded guilty to unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor (statutory rape) before leaving the country to avoid the consequences. Allen slept with and eventually married his partners daughter. The latter particularly bothers Dederer because as a child she had been very close to her mothers boyfriend, a relationship she still cherishes. The prospect of a similar bond being exploited and sexualized sickens her. Merely learning of Allens affair with Soon-Yi Previn, Dederer felt, somehow perverted this delicate relationship in her own life. She acknowledges that her revulsion isnt logical, but she felt it all the same, and it changed the way she experienced Allens movies. (Monsters only touches on the allegations, denied by Allen, that Allen molested his adopted daughter Dylan Farrow. On that, Dederer writes, We dont know the real story, and we might never know.)

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Dederer has beefed up Monsters with chapters on wicked women artists (basically, those who abandoned their children); on the excuses made for the appalling carryings-on of geniuses; on Lolita, which she elegantly argues is a condemnation of the deeds of its pedophile narrator and therefore the work of an anti-monster; and on other artists whose work is colored by what we know about their lives. Occasionally the book feels as if its wandering from the mark. No doubt artists who are mothers often feel guilty about taking time away from their children to work; they have certainly published a lot of personal essays saying so. But who has ever argued that we shouldnt read Doris Lessing because she left two of her children behind in South Africa when she moved to England to write? Or that Sylvia Plath ought to be purged from syllabuses because her suicide traumatized the son and daughter who slept in the next room as she did it?

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And, alas, Dederer does dip her toe now and then into the topic of cancel culture, despite the fact that Monsters doesnt really concern itself with campaignson social media or elsewheremounted against specific artists with the aim of scuttling their careers or depriving them of some honor. Her book is at its best when it focuses on the individuals encounter with a work of art that feels moving or profound or simply delightful and how knowledge of the artists noxious actions and beliefs can leave a stain on that pleasure. They were accused of doing or saying something awful, and made something great, as Dederer puts it. And knowledge of the awful thing cant easily be shoved aside, as it once might have been. Information about artists and other peoples opinions about those lives have become unavoidable. Biography used to be something you sought out, yearned for, actively pursued, Dederer writes. Now it falls on your head all day long. You cant help hearing about the awful thing, and you cant help the way that affects your response to the great thing.

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Talking about these matters can make less-ambivalent fans defensive. When Dederer explained to a male colleague that Allens Manhattan, a movie in which he plays a 42-year-old man dating a 17-year-old high school student, doesnt really hold up and is creepy on its own merits, he scolded her for letting her knowledge of Allens relationship with Soon-Yi Previn color her judgment. (As someone who remembers when the film was first released in 1979, I can testify that plenty of people thought the age difference was creepy back then too.) I would have a repeat of this conversation, Dederer writes, with many men, smart and dumb, young and old, over the next months: You must judge Manhattan on its aesthetics! they said. Dederer interprets this objectioncorrectly, I thinkas an admonition that she be more detached, as if detachment could ever produce criticism of any worth and as if the admonishers had no interest in the matter themselves. Besides, isnt the age difference between Allens character and Mariel Hemingways, after all, a crucial element of Manhattans aesthetics?

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Although Dederer knew Polanski was worse, whatever that means, Allens transgressions hit closer to home because, as with Bowie, in her girlhood she intuited or believed [Woody Allen] represented me on-screen. He was me. This is one of the peculiar aspects of his geniusthis ability to stand in for the audience. Its true that Allen embodied a neurotic, cultured, metropolitan intellectualisma lifestyle, reallythat won him the devotion of an audience who longed for the same. Allens characters can be self-deprecating, but his New York films, especially Annie Hall and Manhattan, are aspirational, like a Ralph Lauren catalog for people who shopped at Zabars and went to the Film Forum three nights a week. Dederer writes that she saw Allens nerdy persona, a character sustained throughout all of the films he acted in, a character clearly meant to be Allen himself, as one of us, the powerless. Of course, he was not.

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Polanski makes an illuminating contrast to Allen. His past sufferingsthe mother lost to the Holocaust, the war years survived by disguising his Jewishness, his pregnant wife butchered by members of a bizarre cultare so extravagant that who would presume to identify with him? His films are unsettling and powerful instead of charming and stylish. His crimes implicate no one but himself. Furthermore, he seems capable of getting out of his own skin in a way Allen isnt. As Dederer points out, 1968s Rosemarys Baby depicts with startling perceptiveness the dilemma of a young woman manipulated and gaslit by men and how it feels to have ones body treated as the means to someone elses end. What a film to have been made by a rapist! Revisiting Polanskis movies, Dederer found herself swept up in their beauty while her knowledge of Polanskis crimes just sort of hovered there. She didnt forget his past or forgive him, and she felt no inclination to minimize those crimes in deference to Polanskis genius. I simply wanted to watch the films, she writes, because they were great.

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The stain that tainted Dederers appreciation of Allens movies seems not to have seeped so freely from Polanski the man to the directors films. This is because while Dederer is an admirer of Polanskis work, she was Allens fan. The magnitude of an artists personal transgressions sometimes matters less than the nature of the attachment it disrupts. The more closely we are tied to the artist, Dederer writes, the more we draw our identity from them and their art, the more collapsed the distance between us and them, the more likely we are to lose some piece of ourselves when the stain starts to spread.

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Lets consider the possibility that the fans dilemma that gives Monsters its subtitle is a result not just of bad people making great art but of fandom itself, the impossible expectations that a certain kind of art love places on flawed creators. Everyone ought to behave morally, of course, but most of us dont, at least some of the time. Why is it imperative that the people who make art be good people? Its no coincidence that Dederer has been most disillusioned by the transgressions of artists who meant a lot to her in her youth, artists she once felt were showing her how to live, an inherently moral mission. Some artists, like Allen, do invite this sort of attachment. Others do not. No one can accuse Polanski, whose crimes and art may both have roots in the trauma of his past, of pretending not to be fucked up. He cant tell you how to live, only show you what life is (sometimes) like. Once we understand that great art is not a display of ideals, that it often springs from a struggle with the shortcomings and failures of human beings, then its clear that some of it will be made by people whose actions we deplore.

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None of this is to say that artists, however brilliant, deserve special treatment, as many members of the film industry seem to think Polanski does. People who wrong others should be held accountable for their actions. But, again, adjudicating the real-world consequences of artists crimes is not the purview of Monsters. Dederer describes the book as an autobiography of the audience, an examination of how personal experience colors an individuals response to a work of art. No audience member is without personal experience or able to evaluate a movie like Manhattan from the Olympian perspective of pure aesthetics, as the men who argued with Dederer about Allen claimed. Its just that their personal experience inclines them to excuse certain kinds of behavior in their faves, and hers does not.

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But can she still listen to David Bowie? Dederer winds down Monsters with an account of the writer Pearl Cleages fraught relationship with the music of Miles Davis, a man who openly admitted to abusing Black women like herself. Cleage published a whole book on the subject, Mad at Miles: A Blackwomans Guide to Truth, in 1990. But in an interview 22 years later, she admitted that she still listens to Davis magnificent 1959 album Kind of Blue. Dederer sees a path forward in this example. Cleage loves Miles, she writes, and then hates him, and then loves him in a more knowing way. So our relationships shift as we grow up. But pretending the love doesnt exist, or saying it oughtnt to, doesnt help anything.

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The solution is not to smash your idols but to recognize that they are not idols at all. For Dederer, this insight came with the confessional rituals of the 12-step movement. The humility required to stand before the group and describe what is worst about me, what is most monstrous, and the realization that most human beings have a monstrous aspect, allowed her to see the humanity of monsters. This amounts to a more dramatic enactment of a pretty common experience: As children, we adore our parents, and growing up is a process of realizing how flawed they areoften with a period of extravagant adolescent rejectionbefore we come to understand that we love them despite those flaws, as we hope to be loved despite our own.

Monsters concludes with an aria about the glorious anarchy of love, with Dederer running out this analogy between loving the art of awful people and loving awful people themselves quite a bit longer than I would. Bad people can do a lot more damage than art can! And besides, the art itself isnt awful, or we wouldnt be clinging to it despite our misgivings about its creators. The obdurate truth remains that some of the most beautiful and profound things humanity has created are the work of terrible people. We can decide, in a fury of righteousness, to cast those works aside. Or we can choose to view them as a kind of grace, the miraculous salvage from the inevitable wreck of our lives.
Much of the recent coverage of the new Brooke Shields documentary on Hulu rightly focuses on the chilling exploitation and sexualization of the star as a child, and then celebrates how far we have come, noting that sexualized and sexist depictions of a young actress would not be tolerated in the same way today. Lost in these (perhaps overly) hopeful visions of progress is the story of a growing threat to the next Brooke Shields of the world. There is a growing trend in states across the country of making the rights to a persons own name, likeness, and voice transferable to others. Protection against unauthorized uses of ones name or likeness is a good thing, but allowing the transfer of such rights is not. Once someones identity is transferable, then troubled and financially strapped parents (like Shields mom), as well as predatory agents, managers, companies, and organizations, will be armed with the ability to strip anyone, including aspiring models, actors, musicians, and student-athletes, of their rights to their own identities.

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Shields was a victim of this in her youth. Her mother transferred to a photographer Shields right to her own likeness, in the context of nude photographs of her taken when she was a child. As an adult, Shields was not able to stop the use of those images because a court ruled that her mother, as her guardian, had had the right to sell or license Shields rights to her own name and likeness. Shields is not alone. Other courts have held that parents can sell and license their childrens name, image, and likeness rights (sometimes called a right of publicity). Given the recent elimination of the NCAAs ban on student-athletes commercializing their identities, we should be particularly concerned about parents and others taking ownership and control over childrens identitiescollege teams often recruit athletes as early as middle school. If such athletes rights to their names and likenesses are transferred away by their parents, the law makes no provision for them to be reclaimed, even when the children turn 18.

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This danger is becoming worse because what was once thought of as a personal right that could not be transferred away is increasingly being treated (or adopted by statute in some states) as a freely transferable property right. One can now sell the right to ones own (or ones childs) name, likeness, or voice as if it were a car or a houseeven though these attributes of a person are inseparable from them. So, if Shields mother were to have sold Shields right of publicity in its entirety to a third party when she was a child, rather than making a transfer that was limited to the context of specific photos, Shields would not have been able to control what uses were made of her name, likeness, or voice, and might even have been barred from choosing what professional projects she wanted to participate in.

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The right of publicitythe right to control unauthorized uses of a persons identitybegan to be adopted in the United States starting in the late 1800s and early 1900s to counter the use of unauthorized images (especially photographs) of people (both famous and ordinary), which were then sometimes put in advertisements without the persons consent. This right of publicity is now explicitly recognized in almost every state and provides important protections against exploitation. But it cannot do this job if it can be stripped from the very people it is meant to protect.

Parents may often act in a childs best interest, but states should not presume they will. Historically, parents and other adults have exploited children, especially ones who are likely to have significant commercial value because of their talents. It was because of the particularly tragic example of the child star Jackie Coogan in the 1920s that California passed what is known as the Coogan Law. This law requires that the earnings of child actors be put into a trust until they reach the age of majority. This prevents their parents from spending all of their earnings before they turn 18, which is what happened to Coogan.

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Yet, current publicity laws have allowed DJ Khaled to form a company and transfer to it his infant son Asahds right to his own name, likeness, and voice. Olivia Chachi Gonzales, a teenage television personality, discovered that her mother had sold the rights to her name and identity for commercial use to a company while she was a minor. Whatever these parents motives, the possibility of parents selling their childrens rights to their own identities in perpetuity is chilling. Few states protect children (or adults for that matter) from such transfers.

The next Brooke Shields should not be at risk of having their name, likeness, or voice owned by someone other than themselves. And neither should the growing number of student-athletes who are being thrust into the marketplace as children. State publicity laws that protect against unauthorized uses of a persons name, likeness, or voice can be drafted or interpreted to preclude such transfers, but thus far, the law is racing in the opposite direction. The history of exploitation of child performers provides us with a poignant lesson in why we need to stop this trend, and firmly root a persons right to their own identity solely in themselves. This is especially true when it comes to children.
We are now in week two of the Dianne Feinstein saga, in which Democrats willingness to jeopardize their own agenda to accommodate the ailing absentee senator will be on full display.

Sen. Chuck Schumer, per Feinsteins request, is asking that Feinstein be allowed to be temporarily removed and replaced on the all-important Senate Judiciary Committee, which has been gummed up for months due to her absence. The California senator was diagnosed with shingles in March, and her office does not have a timetable for her return to Washington, D.C.

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The timing is crucial. Because of Feinsteins absence, Democrats have lost their majority in the committee and have been prevented from advancing Bidens judicial nomineesarguably the most important thing Democrats can be doing right now, especially without control of the House.

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Schumer will need unanimous consent from the full Senate to pull off a temporary replacement. Already it looks like he wont get it. Republican Sens. Tom Cotton and Marsha Blackburn, both of whom are actually on the Judiciary Committee, have said they will oppose it. Without unanimous consent, the other alternative is for Democrats to recruit 10 Republicans to create a filibuster-proof majority to sign off on the highly unusual mid-session change. So far, even moderate Republican senators have signaled that theyre not inclined.

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So, it will be Republicans who decide what becomes of Feinstein. If 10 Republican allies come to her rescue, Feinstein will eventually be able to indefinitely work from home, per her teams recent comments to Politico. But at least she wont be single-handedly torpedoing the most important thing national Democrats can be doing right now. The Senate Judiciary Committee is now also tasked with holding hearings regarding the ever-expanding ethics scandals of Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas. And it needs a present, functioning majority to do so.

On the face of it, Republicans should be giddy that Bidens judges are stuck in committee due to Feinsteins absence. And they are certainly saying that they wont help her out. But its possible that some might come to her aid for a more strategic reason: They may be able to finagle some assurance from Schumer that someone they like will be temporarily elevated to Feinsteins seat on the committee. One name that keeps coming up? Arizona Sen. Kyrsten Sinema.

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Some might say thats a fine trade for Democrats; Sinema has been a rubber stamp for Bidens judges in the past, having never voted down a Biden judge. But this is not the same Sinema of the bygone 117th Congress. Sinema ditched her Democratic affiliation in December and has since repeatedly disparaged her former Democratic colleagues in the press. She is seemingly in a dead sprint to the right, courting big conservative donors to fund her independent reelection campaign. Its absolutely not assured that she will behave in a favorable manner as the decisive vote on a Judiciary Committee with 11 Democrats and 10 Republicans. In fact, she could imperil the whole project. (Elevating her might also play poorly with other Senate Democrats, as Sinema would be getting a top committee appointment after repeatedly insulting her colleagues and working against them.)

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Even if Feinstein does get off of judiciary temporarily, the job of being a senator has a litany of other demands that she is effectively shirking from 3,000 miles away. And that wont be fully resolved even after she recovers from shingles. Feinsteins precipitous mental decline has been an open secret for years.

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Because the Senate is run by an astonishing array of largely made-up rules, there is one other course of action that would allow Feinstein to stay, explained here by the American Prospects David Dayen. In short, Schumer could disregard the recommendations of the Senate parliamentarian and simply enact these changes with a simple majority, known as the nuclear option. But hed need full buy-in from Sens. Joe Manchin and Kyrsten Sinema (which would be unlikely), and it would force Dems to contend with the optics disaster of having fought harder to keep an inactive 89-year-old in the Senate than for their $15 minimum wage proposal of 2021, when they refused to challenge the parliamentarian.

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If Republicans do make good on this threat to oppose Feinsteins temporary replacement, its hard to see how she could stay in office. Her absence is blocking the effectiveness of the Senate Judiciary Committee at a moment when the impact of judicial appointments and the work of the Democratic Senate has never been clearer. Both the rulings of 5th Circuit Trump-appointee Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk effectively outlawing the abortion drug mifepristone and the Clarence Thomas scandal add even more urgency to an already urgent situation.

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So far, she has missed three-quarters of all votes in the 118th Congress: Some 40 million Americans in the countrys biggest and most important state currently enjoy half the representation of the 500,000 residents of Wyoming. Politico has reported that she may not make it back to the Capitol for two years.

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This is the way it ends then, not with a bang, but with a parade of eyerolls and punchlines about the obvious discrepancies between what Feinsteins staff says and her own rare public utterances; questions about her physical and mental inability to do the job; and a constant resurfacing of her very worst political moments, including her decision to fly the Confederate flag over San Francisco as mayor. There is, to boot, a borderline insulting charm offensive being waged by some California House Democrats and Senate sympathizers who claim that pushing for Feinstein to step aside is all sexism. One particularly representative number from Rep. Norma Torres:

Dear @SenFeinstein please get well soon.



When women age or get sick, the men are quick to push them aside.

When men age or get sick, they get a promotion. #WomensRights ARE #HumanRights  Rep. Norma Torres (@NormaJTorres) April 13, 2023

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Theres no justification for Democrats to continue like this. If (when) Feinstein does resign, it will then kick off a highly contentious process in California.

What to look forward to then?

Gov. Gavin Newsom pledged in 2021 to appoint a Black woman to Feinsteins Senate seat if given the chance; after appointing Sen. Alex Padilla as Kamala Harris replacement for Californias other Senate seat, there is immense pressure on him to make good on that pledge.

But given that the election for Feinsteins seat in 2024 is already well underway, and incumbents are all but guaranteed to win reelection, Newsom will almost certainly have to appoint someone who is willing to pledge not to run for reelection. Having both Senate seats indefinitely occupied by politicians who were initially appointed and not elected is a nonstarter for a state that prides itself on its democratic commitments.

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The simplest solution would be to appoint Oakland Rep. Barbara Lee, who is in the 2024 race and facing an early fundraising deficit. But 20 months as senator may not seem terribly enticing to Lee compared to a full six-year term. And that 20-month term also stands to get shorter and less enticing still as Feinsteins handlers continue to insist, despite what is evident to all politics-watchers, that she is nearly better and about to storm back into D.C. in fighting form. There are many other talented and qualified Black female politicians in California, but at a certain point the offer will be almost insulting.

This dreadful outcome was entirely foreseeable when Feinstein ran for reelection in 2018. Its why the California Democratic party opposed her. Her mental decline was understood even then, and her age meant that it was unlikely shed get to 2024. But national party bigwigs like Barack Obama and Nancy Pelosi swooped in and endorsed her anyway, because of an abiding and self-sabotaging respect for seniority. Feinstein, a fundraising maven, ran a close race despite a huge cash advantage.

Until very recently, one would have simply said that Feinstein had a historic career as Californias first female senator, one who notched some huge legislative triumphs for Democrats. But since 2018, she has been perhaps the worst offender of American political gerontocracy, overstaying her welcome and jeopardizing her own greatest accomplishments in the process. The longer this saga drags on, the more the latter will overwhelm the former. Democrats have been plenty hospitable toward Feinstein over years of her decline; its time she returns the favor.
The federal judiciary is currently engulfed in a battle over the fate of mifepristone, the first of two drugs used in a medication abortion. Although the Food and Drug Administration approved the medication in 2000, and more than 100 scientific studies have demonstrated that it is extremely safe and effective, it has become a major target since Roe v. Wade was overturned last June. Most recently, two lower courts have attempted to overrule the agencys scientific judgments, which would make mifepristone illegal across the country. A different court, however, has issued a competing injunction protecting access to mifepristone in most states where it remains legal. The Supreme Court will wade into this fight within the next few days. As we wait, we decided to do our best to answer some of the most common questions about this increasingly confusing litigation.

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Why is the availability of mifepristone suddenly in question?

Because anti-abortion activists, led by Alliance Defending Freedoma far-right, anti-LGBTQ, anti-abortion law firmsaw the post-Roe landscape as a good opportunity to bring a lawsuit against the medication. The lawsuit has no basis: They claimed the FDAs approval of mifepristone in 2000 was illegal mostly by relying on literal anti-abortion propaganda to claim that mifepristone is dangerous (it is not). They asked U.S. District Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk, a lifelong foe of reproductive rights, to pull it off the market. Kacsmaryk sided with the plaintiffs and purported to suspend the 23-year-old approval of the drug, which is not really something thats in his purview to dothe FDA must follow rules set by Congress, not the courts (more on that in a moment).

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On appeal, the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals pulled back from Kacsmaryks extreme stance, but attempted to reimpose a slew of restrictions on mifepristone that havent been enforced since 2016. These include three mandatory in-person doctors visits for anyone taking the drug; a ban on the cheaper, generic version of the drug; and approval through only seven weeks of pregnancy instead of ten (though doctors could still prescribe it off-label beyond seven weeks).

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And so now the Supreme Court is involved?

Both the Justice Department and Danco Laboratories, which manufactures mifepristone, asked SCOTUS to freeze the 5th Circuits decision and preserve the status quo. If the justices do this, nothing will change; access to mifepristone will remain the same. If the justices dont do this, all those gratuitous roadblocks to mifepristone might snap back into place.

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So what will the Supreme Court do?

On Friday, Justice Samuel Alito granted a brief administrative stay on the case, lasting until Wednesday at midnight, which means none of these new rules will take effect yet. But it also doesnt tell us anything about which way the court is leaning.

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The full court will almost certainly take action by Wednesday night. Broadly speaking, it has two options: Halt the 5th Circuits court order or let it take effect. It seems more likely that SCOTUS will halt the order, for two reasons: First, it brazenly flouted a series of fundamental legal principles; and second, it conflicts with a different order from a federal judge in Washington State. (More on that soon.) But its impossible to know how far this Supreme Court will go to curb reproductive rights, which is a huge part of the problemever since Dobbs, precedent has gone out the window.

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And whats this about a Washington State case?

Thats the wild card. Anticipating Kacsmaryks decisionwhich would have removed mifepristone from the market even in states where abortion is protected and remains legal17 blue states and D.C. asked a liberal judge, Thomas O. Rice, to protect the drugs legality within their borders. Twenty minutes after Kacsmaryk ruled, Rice issued a dueling injunction that maintained access to mifepristone in those blue jurisdictions. He later clarified that his ruling bound the FDA irrespective of decisions from Kacsmaryk or the 5th Circuitcreating a direct conflict between the two orders. Rices order hasnt reached the Supreme Court yet, but if the justices want to spare the FDA from having to choose between two mutually exclusive injunctions, theyll have to stay the 5th Circuit decision.

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Does that mean were in a  constitutional crisis?

Actually, yes. Different courts are effectively forcing the FDA to break the law by choosing which injunction to follow. That situation is not tenable. Executive branch officials are similarly on the brink of being compelled to violate a court order. Moreover, the internal power struggle within the judiciary indicates that constitutional safeguards to guarantee the orderly administration of law are breaking down. This crisis is probably the inevitable result of the judiciarys unceasing seizure of power from the democratic branches.

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Lets say the Supreme Court eventually upholds the 5th Circuit decision and lifts Rices injunctions. Would that really cut off access to mifepristone in blue states?

It could. Part of the problem here is that the 5th Circuit does not understand how FDA regulations work. The 5th Circuit made it sound like courts could simply resuscitate old barriers to access, but the process is far more complicated than that. To comply with these restrictions, mifepristones manufacturer would have to revise its labels, recertify providers, and submit a supplemental drug application for approvalall of which could take months. In the meantime, mifepristone might theoretically remain unapproved.

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Do courts really have the power to impose new limits on a drug?

Nocourts have no authority to override the complex regulatory process that Congress required for the imposition of new restrictions on an FDA-approved medication. Nor do they have the practical ability to enforce these restrictions in the real world. The FDA has vast enforcement discretion over the regulation of drugs. If the Supreme Court refuses to freeze the 5th Circuits decision, the agency can announce that it will not force medical providers to adhere to the new restrictions. In doing so, it will assure blue-state providers that they can continue prescribing mifepristone without fear of sanctions. The alternative is to let courts overrule the FDAs expert scientific determinations, creating a precedent that would make it impossible to bring new drugs to market.

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I heard the 5th Circuit also tried to smuggle in a nationwide ban on abortion by reviving the Comstock Act. Is that true? Also, what is the Comstock Act?

It is true!The Comstock Act is an archaic, unenforced law passed in 1873 to let the federal government censor the mail to protect Victorian-era views of Christian morality. One provision bars the mailing of drugs for the purpose of causing unlawful abortion. The plaintiffs in this case have exploited internal contradictions in the statute to claim that it prohibits the mailing of drugs that cause any abortion, whether lawful or not.

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Although federal courts uniformly rejected that interpretation in the early 1900s, Kacsmaryk and the 5th Circuit found it persuasive. If the Supreme Court agrees, providers will no longer be able to mail abortion pills to patients. The long-term implications are even more dire: The Comstock Acts overbroad language could effectively outlaw medication abortion by making it illegal to transport to clinics, pharmacies, or patients. President Joe Biden presumably wont enforce this ban, but the next Republican president probably wouldthreatening violators with years of incarceration.

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This seems really scary?

Yes, it is a wild and unprecedented situation, honestly, that matters for access to this specific medication, and additionally matters for broader rule of law/how the country functions reasons.

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Yikes. Lets turn back to the immediate stakes of this case. Say the Supreme Court lets the 5th Circuit ruling take effect, and the FDA doesnt fight it. What happens next? Is medication abortion effectively prohibited in all 50 states and the District of Columbia?

No, and thats one major irony of this case. While the two-drug regimen of mifepristone and misoprostol remains the most effective method, patients can also terminate a pregnancy using misoprostol alone. Misoprostol-only abortions may have somewhat more unpleasant side effects, but they are used around the world to safely end a first-trimester pregnancy. Misoprostol is far easier to access than mifepristone because it treats many conditions that have nothing to do with abortion, including stomach ulcers. In the long run, misoprostol-only abortions could still run into problems with the Comstock Act. But for now, if U.S. providers can no longer prescribe mifepristoneor can only do so by jumping through impossible hoopsthey will turn to a misoprostol-only regimen.

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Wait: The plaintiffs say they want to abolish medication abortion supposedly to protect women, but if they succeed, theyll actually just make medication abortion slightly riskier and more painful for women. Do they realize that?

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The plaintiffs acknowledged this fact in court. That, alone, should end the case, becausestay with me when plaintiffs ask for a remedy that does not cure their alleged injury, they lack standing to sue in the first place. But this case has never been about protecting women, its about outlawing abortion, so the plaintiffs are happy to seek a court order that would put more women at risk.

I live in a red state where mifepristone is illegal already. Does that mean I cant get a medication abortion?

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You can, it just wouldnt be strictly legal. Its easy to obtain mifepristone and misoprostol online through a flourishing gray market regardless of where you live. International providers, whose supply appears to be safe and reliable, will mail it to your door. The most popular provider is Aid Access, which is led by a Dutch physician who mails the pills from India. Tens of thousands of Americans have safely terminated their pregnancies with the help of Aid Access since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. All red states do criminalize the use of overseas abortion pillseither through a direct ban or application of other laws like the unauthorized practice of medicine. And anti-abortion advocates are currently lobbying red state prosecutors to investigate and charge people who use or provide these pills, though theyve had no success so far.

Last question: I thought America being in a constitutional crisis would be more obvious, or feel like a bigger deal? What is going to happen next, and how much worse could it get?

Well first, it could get a lot worse! Republicans are increasingly seeking carceral solutions to the ongoing, widespread availability of medication abortion. One activist has filed a lawsuit attempting to bankrupt several Texas women who helped their friend obtain mifepristone. Conservatives will keep enlisting courts, prosecutors, and prisons to crack down on these pills even if their frontal assault on FDA approval fails.

The people fomenting this constitutional crisis are smart enough to push it forward step by step. It will not happen all at once, but instead unfurl slowly, so that most Americans dont realize its happening until it threatens them directly. (One reason this case has gotten so much attention is that it has caused residents of blue states to understand the stakes here.) A bare-knuckled power struggle within the judiciary is an omen of more frighteningly antidemocratic maneuvers to come. By the time you feel this crisis yourself, it may be too late to stop.
Bundles of cocaine were found floating off Italy's eastern coast

The seized cocaine haul is worth almost $440 million

Italy is a key transit route for cocaine trafficking, according to police

According to Italian authorities, a large shipment of cocaine was discovered floating off the eastern coast of the island of Sicily.

Authorities recovered roughly 2 tons of cocaine discovered floating across the Mediterranean during a regular surveillance aircraft on Sunday, according to a statement made on Monday by Italy's Financial Police, Guardia di Finanza.

2 Tons of Cocaine was Found Floating on the Sicily Sea

The cocaine was properly packed in 70 waterproof floating containers that were linked and contained a light signaling system. They further stated that the haul is worth almost $440 million, CNN reported.

"The identification and subsequent seizure of this quantity of drugs, one of the largest ever carried out on national territory, likely prevented the drug from being recovered by criminals for subsequent illegal sale on national territory, which would have yielded very high earnings," according to the statement.

They also claimed to have discovered a blinking tracking device attached to the medicines. The cocaine was discovered during an airborne sweep and is believed to have been abandoned at sea by a cargo ship for later collection and transit to the mainland by a criminal organization. However, officials could not specify which gang, if any, was suspected.

The Cosa Nostra gang has long controlled organized crime on the island of Sicily, as per CBS News. Cosa Nostra, formerly Italy's most powerful mafia organization, has tendrils that spread into the United States and worldwide.

After a 30-year quest, Italian officials apprehended the group's "final godfather," Matteo Messina Denaro, in January. Locals applauded the arrest of the 60-year-old, who claimed that he could fill a cemetery with his victims.

Read Also: Jayland Walker Death: Grand Jury Declines To Indict Ohio Cops in 'Grievous' Killing

Cocaine Trafficking in Italy

Nowadays, the 'Ndrangheta crime syndicate, located in the rocky highlands of Calabria on the Italian mainland near Sicily, dominates the drug trade in Italy and most of Europe.

According to Italian officials, the 'Ndrangheta's stock-in-trade used to be kidnappings for ransom, but it has now evolved into a highly sophisticated worldwide network with a tight grip on the international drugs trade and control over huge swaths of its land where even police dread to go.

Europol, the pan-European law enforcement organization, has named the 'Ndrangheta as one of the world's "most frightening" organized criminal groups due to its "enormous financial strength" and "immense corruptive influence."

According to one research tank, the 'Ndrangheta is more profitable than McDonald's and Deutsche Bank combined, earning billions each year.

According to investigators, the cocaine bundles were laced together with netting. The plastic covering protected the cocaine from becoming wet without weighing it down and perhaps sinking it.

Per ABC News, experts theorized that a cargo ship abandoned it at sea for another vessel to come along and eventually bring it to shore. As a precaution, police planes flew over the water area to look for more cocaine packages that may have separated from the nets.

Cops seized more than 1,600 packets of cocaine packed in 70 bobbing bundles. Cocaine seizures climbed more than fivefold from 3.6 tons in 2018. Police described Italy as a crucial transit route for cocaine trafficking and a hub for Balkan criminal groups, NDTV reported.

Related Article: Iran Court Jails Commander, Iranian Forces Over Ukraine Passenger Plane Downing in 2020

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The indictment charging him with treason for spreading anti-government messages at public events abroad was filed against Kara-Murza last October. He has been in custody since last April, when he was accused in a separate proceeding of allegedly spreading false information about the war in Ukraine during a visit to the United States. Photo: Reuters



A fierce critic of Vladimir Putin and last years recipient of the Vaclav Havel Prize for Human Rights, who is one of Russias most prominent political dissidents, was sentenced to the harshest sentence for the alleged actions handed down since Russia invaded Ukraine last February.

In addition to the prison sentence, according to Russian media, he was also sentenced to pay 400,000 rubles, which is about 4,500 euros, and a seven-year ban on journalism.

Kara-Murza, 41, who holds Russian and British passports, has been a vocal critic of Putin for years. Speaking to CNN just hours before he was arrested, he said Russia was run by a regime of killers.

Kara-Murza was charged with high treason, disseminating false information about the Russian military and illegally working for an organization considered undesirable, and the prosecution sought the maximum possible total sentence for him, which the court then imposed.

In his final address to the court last week, the 41-year-old father of three compared his trial, which took place behind closed doors, to the trials of the 1930s under Stalin. At the same time, he said that he stands behind his words and that he is proud of all his actions. Criminals should repent of what they have done. On the other hand, I myself am in prison for my political views. And I know that the day will come when the darkness over our country will be lifted.

Shortly after the start of the offensive in Ukraine, Russia significantly tightened legislation to silence potential critics. Discrediting the army is punishable by up to five years in prison, and intentionally spreading false information is punishable by up to 15 years in prison.

In 2015 and 2017, Kara-Murza fell ill twice, which he attributed to poisoning allegedly by Russian security forces. He fell into a coma both times, but later recovered, suffering from polyneuropathy, according to his lawyers. Russian authorities have denied any involvement.

Kara-Murza is a historian, journalist and opposition politician who studied at Cambridge and was a close associate of Boris Nemtsovan opposition leader who was killed near the Kremlin in 2015 and was also considered a close associate of the exiled Russian businessman Mikhail Khodorkovsky. The 41-year-old is also a co-founder of the Russian Anti-War Committee, which opposes the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and last year he received the Vaclav Havel Prize for Human Rights, awarded by the Council of Europe.

Convictions and calls for release

After the conviction, there have been calls for his release, as well as criticism of the unfair trial. The United Nations, Berlin and London called on Moscow to immediately release the activist, where the Russian ambassador was summoned to defend them. The prison sentence was also condemned by the European Union.

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk called on Russia to immediately release Kara-Murza. According to the Turks in the words of the sentence handed down by the Moscow court, another blow to the rule of law and civil society in the Russian Federation. No one should be deprived of their freedom for exercising human rights and I call on the Russian authorities to release him immediately, Turk said in a statement.

Todays outrageously harsh court decision once again clearly demonstrates the political abuse of the judiciary to put pressure on activists, human rights defenders and all voices opposing the illegal Russian aggression in Ukraine, announced the EUs high representative for foreign affairs, Josep Borrell. At the same time, he warned that this trial did not meet international standards of a fair and public hearing before an impartial and independent court, they wrote in a message from Brussels.

London demanded the immediate release of the activist. The UK will continue to called for the immediate release of Kara-Murza, said Foreign Minister James Cleverly. The Foreign Office in London summoned the Russian ambassador Andrey Kelin for a discussion about the sentence.

In a protest note released by the Foreign Office, London described Kara-Murzas conviction as violation of international commitments Moscow in connection with the rule of law based on fair trial.

Germany was also critical of Kara-Murzas 25-year prison sentence and called for his immediate release. We condemn this verdict in the strongest possible terms, said German Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Andrea Sasse. The conviction showed the shocking level of repression that has now been achieved in Russia, she said.

The leader of the Belarusian opposition in exile, Svetlana Tihanovska, also responded to Kara-Murzas conviction, describing the Russian activist and journalist as a friend and calling for his release.

He is a brave and intelligent voice of reason opposing Putins inhumane regime and aggression in Ukraine. This verdict is another mockery of justice, she wrote in a tweet.

The Kremlin declined to comment on Kara-Murzas 25-year prison sentence. You know we never comment on court decisions and we wont do it this time either, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.
Gov. Ron DeSantis is almost surely running for president. But its not official yet so the Trump campaign is blasting him for traveling the country promoting himself, and his new book, during Floridas legislative session.

DeSantis wants to campaign full time for president, during the Florida legislative session, while collecting a salary and having the taxpayers pick up the costs for his travel and security, said Donald Trump campaign spokesman Steven Cheung, according to Florida Politics.

Florida has a Resign to Run law that would force DeSantis to resign if he runs for president. But the law has been waived for other candidates in the past.

DeSantis is a young man who is not doing well against me in the polls, to put it mildly. I believe that if he decides to run for president, which will only hurt and somewhat divide the Republican Party, he will lose the cherished and massive MAGA vote, and never be able to successfully run for office again, Trump wrote on social media.

Meanwhile on the other side, on NBCs Today Show President Joe Biden let it slip to weatherman Al Roker, hes running for re-election.

White House Watch is a weekly column on the 2024 presidential election.
Despite outrage and protests from the left, Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the Heartbeat Protection Act into law, banning abortions after six weeks of pregnancy.

The ban will only take effect if the states current 15-week ban, which was signed into law last year, is upheld in court. That challenge is before the state Supreme Court, which is controlled by conservatives.

Florida Planned Parenthood tweeted: TO BE CLEAR: Abortion remains legal in Florida until 15 weeks. This bill will not go into effect until 30 days after the FL Supreme Court undermines our right to privacy.

The law contains some exceptions, including to save the life of the mother. Abortions due to rape or incest would be allowed until 15 weeks of pregnancy, but only if a woman has documentation such as a restraining order or police report.

Also under the new law, drugs used in medication-induced abortions can only be dispensed in person or by a physician. Nationwide, a majority of abortions are drug induced.

Previous state Supreme Court rulings have interpreted Floridas constitutional right to privacy as including access to abortion. But many people fear the court has taken a hard shift to the right and will uphold additional restrictions on abortion.

Earlier in the month Lauren Book, a Democratic state senator, and Nikki Fried, chairwoman of the Florida Democratic Party, were arrested and charged with trespassing during a protest in Tallahassee. On April 13, Democrats in the House attempted to delay the bills passage, filing dozens of amendments to the proposal. All were rejected by Republicans.

Equality Florida says abortion rights and LGBT rights are a common cause.

All of our rights are on the line. We are in this fight to make sure everyone has the power to control their own bodies, lives, and futures. Building a more just and equitable society means ensuring abortion care is available and affordable for all, reads a statement on the organizations website. Its essential that we protect the legal right to abortion, especially now. Abortion is health care. And health care is a human right. We can not go back, and we will not back down. We must stand shoulder to shoulder and fight these attacks together.
A Trnava university has not explained why it did not stand up for its Turkish student.

Trnava Foreigners' Police on Paulinska Street in Trnava on March 17, 2023. (Source: P.D. for The Slovak Spectator)

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Furkans study exchange stay in Slovakia had been going swimmingly until the day he turned up at the Foreigners Police. Shortly after, he was abruptly told to leave the country  even though he had done nothing wrong.

With a national visa issued for 150 days by the Slovak embassy in Turkey, the 20-year-old Turkish student arrived in Trnava, a university town just north of Bratislava, last September. At Ss. Cyril and Methodius University (UCM), he spent the winter term studying international relations.

But less than two months into his stay, after enjoying a short but positive experience of Slovakia, Furkan decided to extend his study exchange in Trnava in order to remain for the full academic year. I wanted to stay with my fellow Erasmus friends, who are continuing their studies in Trnava, and finish my third year over there, he told The Slovak Spectator in March, via WhatsApp. He asked that we not reveal his surname.
The European Commission has not said if it will sanction Slovakia.

Slovakia has banned the imports of selected Ukrainian crops after Hungary and Poland did the same. (Source: SME - Gabriel Kuchta)

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Slovakia will ban the imports of selected Ukrainian crops as of Wednesday, a step that has disrupted the countrys iron-clad pro-Ukrainian politics.

As many as 30 cereals and food products, including corn, vegetables, fruit, wine, honey and various seeds appear on Slovakias banned list.

The government announced its decision on Monday, April 17. Similar measures have been taken by Poland and Hungary, and Bulgaria is considering the same action. Slovakia decided to ban these crops for fear of becoming the sole EU country through which Ukrainian agricultural products would reach the Union. The government argues that it needs to protect the Slovak agricultural sector and consumers.

The ban comes a few weeks after a letter from the five EU countries bordering Ukraine, including Slovakia, was sent to the European Commission. In the letter, they are asking the Commission for more funds for farmers affected by the Ukrainian exports of crops. The first EU package of 56 million was allocated to the affected countries last month and the Commission has confirmed that it is working on a second package as well. However, the five countries are also proposing reintroducing tariffs and quotas on imports from Ukraine, which would require an intervention in the EU-Ukraine free trade agreement in place.

On Monday, the European Commission admitted that it is not yet fully aware of the legal basis on which some member states have introduced these bans. Trade policy is an exclusive competence of the EU, said spokesperson Miriam Garcia Ferrer, adding that unilateral action is not possible. She refused to speculate on what measures the Commission might take against, say, Slovakia.
Acting PM Eduard Heger alleged to prevent transgender people from legal transition.

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Slovak employees accept LGBT+ colleagues the least, a poll by the Profesia job search website has found.

The poll also looked at Slovaks attitude to other groups in society such as foreigners, ethnic minorities, people living with a disability, older people and parents with small children.

Profesia surveyed 4,300 people last year, the Czech Press Agency (CTK) wrote.

The survey was published when some MPs in parliament are trying to stop transgender people from legal transition, and the cabinet is proposing that LGBT+ couples visit the notary to sign an agreement on their relationship.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230417/la-district-attorneys-office-reviewing-sexual-assault-claims-made-against-armie-hammer-1109604454.html

LA District Attorney's Office 'Reviewing' Sexual Assault Claims Made Against Armie Hammer

LA District Attorney's Office 'Reviewing' Sexual Assault Claims Made Against Armie Hammer

American actor Armie Hammer best known for his roles in The Social Network, The Man from U.N.C.L.E., and Call Me By Your Name is under investigation for sexual assault.

2023-04-17T23:06+0000

2023-04-17T23:06+0000

2023-04-17T23:43+0000

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The US Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office is looking into sexual harassment charges filed against US actor Armie Hammer, a spokesperson for the agency has confirmed.Tiffiny Blackwell, who serves as the DA office's communications director, told US media: "I can confirm that the LAPD has presented a case regarding Armie Hammer to the LADA. The matter is currently under review."At present, little is known of the investigation as officials involved in the case have yet to detail on who's behalf the probe was launched, or the exact incident that prompted investigators to act.However, an insider with knowledge of the proceedings relayed exclusively to NBC News that the Los Angeles Police Department had "forwarded findings" that were tied to sexual assault allegations put forward in 2021.It's unclear whether the case has any direct ties to the 2017 rape accusation brought against Hammer by a former partner who alleged at the time that the US actor was mentally, emotionally and sexually abusive. The 2017 accusation had prompted an investigation in February 2021.To date, no formal charges have been filed against the actor, who has referred to the 2017 allegation as "outrageous" and that his encounters have been "completely consensual." Hammer has not commented on the Monday development.Hammer has mostly remained out of the celebrity spotlight since allegations first surfaced but detailed in an early February interview that his interest in the culture of bondage, dominance, sadism and masochism (BDSM) stemmed from being molested by a pastor when he was 13 years old. In the same interview the actor also claimed he tried to commit suicide by drowning at sea but that he changed his mind after thinking of his children.Hammer's admission of BDSM interest came over two years after screenshots initially revealed in January 2021 that he allegedly believed himself to be "100% a cannibal" and that he confessed to wanting to eat his partner, drink her blood and hold her beating heart in his hands. Several other former lovers at the time later accused the actor of manipulation and inappropriate behavior. Model Paige Lorenze said he once carved an "A" on her pubis with a knife and then began licking the wound. In addition, Hammer allegedly asked her to remove her ribs so he could eat them.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20210206/armie-hammer-dropped-by-agency-amid-cannibal-dm-scandal---report-1082001546.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/beijing-confirms-entry-ban-against-lockheed-raytheon-execs-over-taiwan-arms-sales-1109633859.html

Beijing Confirms Entry Ban Against Lockheed and Raytheon Execs Over Taiwan Arms Sales

Beijing Confirms Entry Ban Against Lockheed and Raytheon Execs Over Taiwan Arms Sales

The restrictions complement measures imposed in February which labeled the US weapons makers as unreliable entities, and prohibited them from carrying out a range of export/import activities, making investments in Chinas economy, and stopping employees from living or working in the Asian nation.

2023-04-18T17:50+0000

2023-04-18T17:50+0000

2023-04-18T17:56+0000

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Beijing has offered new details on sanctions imposed against Lockheed Martin and Raytheon Missiles & Defense.In a Tuesday statement, Chinas Ministry of Commerce confirmed that a ban has been in place since February on company executives visiting, working in or residing in the country, and that import/export restrictions have been set up to prevent Chinese products from being used in their military business.Tuesdays comments come amid the continued of escalation of tensions between Beijing and Washington over Taiwan, with tensions spilling into trade ties between the two countries and between China and the West in general.China has been conducting what British financial media has characterized as surgical retaliation against foreign firms in response to US-led technology restrictions. Some measures include a probe into US chip maker Micron Technology for illegal activity, the closure of the Beijing offices of US corporate due diligence firm Mintz Group, a $31 million fine against auditing firm Deloitte over suspected auditing negligence, and the detention of an executive of a major Japanese pharmaceuticals company on suspicion of espionage. Earlier this month, Asian business media reported that China is considering slapping restrictions on the export of rare-earth magnet technology to the US on national security grounds.The United States has spent over four decades flouting a 1982 joint communique with China which obliges Washington to gradually bring arms sales to Taiwan to zero. Washington has recently ramped up its informal diplomatic ties with Taipei in violation of commitments made to China when diplomatic relations were restored in 1979.Recent administrations have signed off on the sale of tens of billions of dollars in advanced military hardware to Taiwan. However, this trade has witnessed the buildup of a $19+ billion backlog, with Covid and the Ukraine crisis blamed for delays.Representatives from more than two dozen major US defense contractors plan to travel to Taiwan next month to discuss the joint production of drones and ammunition. These plans come following Pentagon chief Lloyd Austins announcement in late March that the US military would use a $1 billion authorization to speed up the transfer of weapons to the island.Chinese officials have repeatedly announced their aspiration to ensure a peaceful reunification of Taiwan with the mainland under the so-called One Country, Two Systems model  which will allow the island to preserve elements of its existing political, legal and economic systems while remaining in Chinas jurisdiction. Beijing has warned, however, that any attempts by foreign-backed separatists to declare independence could trigger a military solution to the issue.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230417/report-us-to-sell-taiwan-400-anti-ship-harpoon-missiles-to-repel-chinese-invasion-1109607447.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230412/us-speed-up-of-arms-supplies-to-taiwan-prior-to-islands-2024-elections-sends-ominous-signal-1109390632.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/biden-administration-left-thousands-of-migrant-minors-in-grave-danger-1109634901.html

Biden Administration Left Thousands of Migrant Minors in Grave Danger

Biden Administration Left Thousands of Migrant Minors in Grave Danger

On Tuesday, a House Oversight subcommittee is expected to give a hard time to Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) Director Robin Dunn Marcos over the Biden administration's failure to vet, monitor and track tens of thousands of unaccompanied migrant children.

2023-04-18T18:15+0000

2023-04-18T18:15+0000

2023-04-18T18:15+0000

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The Biden administration appears to be completely indifferent to the fate of unaccompanied migrant children whose arrival at the US southern frontier has increased over tenfold since President Joe Biden assumed the Oval Office, according to Rep. Glenn Grothman (R-Wisc.), chairman of the Subcommittee on National Security, the Border, and Foreign Affairs.According to Grothman, the number of unaccompanied children encountered at the southern border increased from 15,000 in President Donald Trump's last year in office to over 130,000 a year under Biden.The latest scandal stems from a New York Times investigation concerning unaccompanied migrant children who had been released to sponsors and vanished from the government's radar. According to the newspaper, Health and Human Services (HHS) couldnt reach more than 85,000 of those minors and lost immediate contact with a third of migrant children over the last two years.The media revealed that the HHS has little, if any, time to properly check all the sponsors as the Biden administration urges the department's staffers to work faster as more and more illegals are coming to the US. At the same time, it cited US child welfare agencies who argued that the HHS regularly ignores obvious signs of labor exploitation. The newspaper drew attention to the fact that about two-thirds of unaccompanied minors who have been coming to the United States in record numbers since 2021 end up working full-time."This labor force has been slowly growing for almost a decade, but it has exploded since 2021, while the systems meant to protect children have broken down," the media outlet summarized.In March, a Senate Finance Committee led by Sen. James Lankford (R-Okla.) held a hearing about details in the report. However, HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra stated at the time that he was "unfamiliar with reported statistics.""I have never heard that number of 85,000, I dont know where it comes from and so I would say it doesnt sound at all to be realistic, and what we do is we try and follow up as best we can with these kids," Becerra claimed.However, earlier this month a Florida grand jury report described a gloomy picture of unaccompanied minors trafficked by cartels, forced into unlawful labor and sexually abused in the US."The public is led to believe that the process described by our federal government in documents and popular media accounts at least resembled the truth," the Florida grand jury report said. "In reality, the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) is facilitating the forced migration, sale, and abuse of foreign children, and some of our fellow Florida residents are (in some cases unwittingly) funding and incentivizing it for primarily economic reasons."According to conservative observers, the unfolding scandal over the Biden administration's negligence and leaving thousands of vulnerable migrant children in grave danger has become "the extraordinary political boomerang" which eventually hit the Democrats after their longstanding criticism of Donald Trump's migrant policies.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230226/most-unaccompanied-migrant-children-end-up-brutally-exploited-in-us-report-says-1107824191.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/cbc-suspends-twitter-activity-over-state-funded-label-1109608080.html

CBC Suspends Twitter Activity Over State-Funded Label

CBC Suspends Twitter Activity Over State-Funded Label

CBC/Radio-Canada is suspending its activities on Twitter following the social media platforms decision to label them as a government-funded outlet, CBC said on Monday.

2023-04-18T00:32+0000

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The decision comes following Twitters decision to apply the "government-funded media" label to CBCs primary account, which was also recently applied to US state-funded outlet National Public Radio.The label has typically been used to designate media outlets whose editorial independence is allegedly impacted by their government ties.CBC is a so-called crown corporation, mandated by Canadas Broadcasting Act. The CBC is managed by a board of directors and held responsible by the Canadian Parliament, with its financing including government funding.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230409/twitter-dubs-bbc-as-government-funded-media-as-broadcaster--1109297537.html

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David Choe, an actor known for his role in the hit Netflix series 'Beef,' is now facing widespread backlash online after his rape comments back in 2014 resurfaced.

The 'Beef' actor made the comments about rape in a podcast way back in 2014. The video of the episode made rounds on Twitter. However, the Elon Musk-owned social network has since been taken it down.

'Beef' Actor David Choe's Rape Comments

According to The Decider, the new Netflix series 'Beef' quickly took the world by storm. The comedy-drama show rapidly rose to the top of the most viewed show ranking of the giant streamer, alongside favorites these days like 'The Night Agent,' 'Love is Blind,' and 'You.'

While some viewers left high praises after binge-watching 'Beef,' one of its lead stars, Choe, is now receiving heavy backlash on social media platforms like Twitter due to his past rape comments. The hit Netflix show centers on two strangers who had a random encounter when they figured in a road rage mess. Their dispute prevailed, dragging their family and loved ones to their cat and dog fight.

The artist and actor Choe stars as the cousin of Danny Cho, who Steven Yuen plays. But shortly after the premiere of the new Netflix hit, a video online puts a spotlight on the dark rape comments of Choe. Reporter, Aura Bogado, posted a clip of a podcast that the 'Beef' actor previously hosted. He narrated a disturbing encounter with a massage therapist and admitted he was a "successful rapist."

His co-host in the DVDASA, actress Asa Akira, called the 'Beef' actor a "rapist." He then replied by adding that he is "a successful rapist."

In the podcast, he told a graphic story about allegedly assaulting a massage therapist he called 'Rose.' The Netflix actor admitted that he began masturbating without her consent. He then asked her to touch his genitals, forcing her to put oil in his private part, per USA Today. Choe then forced her to do oral sex. The actor adds, "She's definitely not into it, but she's not stopping it either."

The artist/actor notes, "She has given me no signs that she's into me or that this is appropriate behavior." In the same year he made the remarks, he clarified that he was "not a rapist. Instead, his "bad storytelling" was at fault.

Read Also: Madison Brooks' Death: New Video Shows LSU Student's Final Minutes

Why Did Twitter Take Down the Video?

BuzzFeed News notes that Twitter has removed the video containing the rape comments of the Netflix star. The poster disclosed why the social network did so.

Bodega claims that Choe asked the Musk-owned platform to take down the podcast video over a copyright issue, which the "nonprofit" of the actor reportedly owns. BuzzFeed says the clip is still on TikTok, but the audio has been muted due to graphic language.

Related Article: Rape Study Asia: New UN Report Reveals One in Four Men from Some Asian Countries Have Committed Sexual Assault

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/chinas-microchip-industry-showing-signs-of-recovery-after-big-hit-from-us-sanctions-1109630877.html

China's Microchip Industry Showing Signs of Recovery After Big Hit From US Sanctions

China's Microchip Industry Showing Signs of Recovery After Big Hit From US Sanctions

Chinas microchip manufacturing industry seems to have nearly recovered from its big losses earlier this year that were triggered by US attempts to cripple the countrys production of advanced circuitry.

2023-04-18T15:51+0000

2023-04-18T15:51+0000

2023-04-18T15:51+0000

asia

china

microchip

manufacturing

us sanctions

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China produced 29.4 billion units of integrated circuits (ICs) in March, down only 3% from a year ago and narrowing significantly from the 17% year-on-year drop in the first two months of the year, according to new numbers published by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) published on Tuesday.While thats a slight loss, its much smaller than the 17% year-on drop seen in January and February of this year. In fact, the report notes that the NBS often revises its numbers to reflect changes in the companies included in its samples, with Chinese media pointing out that earlier data actually shows a growth in chip output last month as compared to a year prior, rather than a decline.That has included sanctions on leading Chinese tech companies, blocking them from doing business in the US or other Western countries, especially by using false claims that the firms are obligated to spy on their users on behalf of the Chinese government. Congressional hearings last month aimed at pushing a ban on social media app TikTok in the US helped illustrate how those fears are both unfounded and have merged with a general increase in anti-Asian hatred in the United States, with one US lawmaker accusing TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew, who is Singaporean, of being required by law to do the bidding of the Communist Party of China.However, Washingtons drive to isolate China from its suppliers was long anticipated by Beijing, which has poured money into developing and expanding a domestic microchip manufacturing industry. In February, Chinese President Xi Jinping urged the national legislature to launch an even greater effort to place China at the head of a sci-tech revolution with new funding for school tech programs as well as research labs.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230405/rare-earths-behemoth-china-mulls-ban-on-export-of-key-magnet-tech-to-us-1109178024.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/doj-arrests-two-men-for-running-alleged-secret-chinese-police-station-in-manhattan-1109610050.html

DOJ Arrests Two Men for Running Alleged 'Secret' Chinese Police Station in Manhattan

DOJ Arrests Two Men for Running Alleged 'Secret' Chinese Police Station in Manhattan

The Department of Justice announced the arrest of two men for allegedly running a secret police station at the behest of the Chinese government.

2023-04-18T03:52+0000

2023-04-18T03:52+0000

2023-04-18T03:49+0000

americas

new york city

manhattan

china

us department of justice

chinese ministry of public security

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In a complaint unsealed on Monday, the Department of Justice announced it had arrested and charged two men with conspiracy to act as foreign agents and obstructing justice for their alleged role in running a secret police station in Manhattan on behalf of the Chinese government.Harry Lu Jianwang, 61, and Chen Jinping, 59, both US citizens, were arrested on Monday and released on bail. The Justice Department alleges the pair set up a secret overseas police station in an office building in Manhattans Chinatown with the intention to intimidate and harass Chinese dissidents living in New York.The complaint says the office shut down after an FBI raid on the building last fall alerted the members of the group of the FBI investigation. Previously, China described the outposts as volunteer-run organizations designed to help Chinese nationals living abroad with bureaucratic tasks, such as renewing their Chinese drivers licenses.However, the DOJ claims the two men set up the office at the direction of the Fuzhou Municipal Public Security Bureau, a branch of the Chinese Ministry of Public Security and was directed by that organization.It also claims Lu had a longstanding relationship with the ministry that stretched back to at least 2015, when he attended a counter-protest supporting Chinese President Xi Jinping. The complaint alleges he received a plaque from the ministry for that work.Then in 2018, he was allegedly enlisted by the ministry to harass a Chinese fugitive, including with threats of violence, encouraging him to return to China. Finally, the complaint also alleges that in 2022, Lu helped the Chinese government locate a Chinese national and pro-democracy advocate who was living in China. The complaint notes Lu denied those conversations happened.Lu also maintains a residence in China, according to US media reports.Last year, Safeguard Defenders, an NGO previously known as China Action and funded by the National Endowment of Democracy, itself funded by the US government, claimed its investigations revealed over 100 secret police stations around the world, including in the UK, Canada and the US.In a related case, the DOJ also charged 40 national police officers in transnational repression schemes targeting US residents, accusing them of creating fake social media accounts to spread disinformation and pressuring a Zoom employee to remove dissidents from the platform. No arrests have been made in that case and the defendants are thought to live in China.The Peoples Republic of China has not responded publicly to either case at press time.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/elon-musk-to-start-truthgpt-ai-project-which-is-unlikely-to-annihilate-humans-1109617651.html

Elon Musk to Start 'TruthGPT' AI Project Which is 'Unlikely to Annihilate Humans'

Elon Musk to Start 'TruthGPT' AI Project Which is 'Unlikely to Annihilate Humans'

Elon Musk has said that he is starting a rival to AI-powered ChatGPT launched by OpenAI, to be calledTruth GPT.

2023-04-18T10:42+0000

2023-04-18T10:42+0000

2023-04-18T10:42+0000

science & tech

us

elon musk

artificial intelligence (ai)

chatbots

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Elon Musk has lifted the veil of secrecy surrounding his reported future rival to the artificial intelligence-powered ChatGPT language tool launched last November by OpenAI. His own platform -Truth GPT - would challenge creations by Microsoft and Google, the tech billionaire said.The SpaceX and Tesla chief executive added that such AI might be the best path to safety, in the sense that an AI that cares about understanding the universe... is unlikely to annihilate humans because we are an interesting part of the universe.Musk, who co-founded OpenAI in 2015 only to leave it in 2018 in the wake of a power tussle with its present chief executive, Sam Altman, positioned TruthGPT as a more transparent option. He appeared to imply that profit motives could, potentially, undermine the ethics of an AI model. OpenAI, the San-Francisco based start-up, was a non-profit company until 2020, when it switched gear and became a capped-profit company. According to Altman, the company learnt at the time, "that we were going to need far more capital than we were able to raise as a non-profit". He added: Our non-profit is still fully in charge there is a subsidiary capped profit so that our investors and employees can earn a certain fixed return."Musk has already set up a new artificial intelligence company called X.AI Corp., according to a Nevada state filing cited by media reports. Throughout the past few months the tech guru was described as recruiting researchers. As for a "truth-seeking" chatbot, Musk had tweeted back in February that what we need is TruthGPT. The billionaire had been one of a group that drew attention to the risks with which large-scale AI models, such as GPT-4, are fraught. Musk had joined a group of tech executives and experts calling for a freeze on "giant AI experiments until reliable safety standards were established.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230415/elon-musk-creates-new-artificial-intelligence-company-xai-1109546054.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230329/musk-warns-against-progressing-beyond-gpt-4-as-report-says-ai-may-replace-300-mln-jobs-1108897125.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/elon-musk-was-alarmed-by-government-access-to-twitter-private-messages-1109606641.html

Elon Musk Was Alarmed by Government Access to Twitter Private Messages

Elon Musk Was Alarmed by Government Access to Twitter Private Messages

On todays episode of The Backstory, host Lee Stranahan discussed current events including the US arresting two men involved with a "secret Chinese police station", and Canada's CBC outlet leaving Twitter.

2023-04-18T10:07+0000

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2023-04-18T10:07+0000

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Elon Musk Was Alarmed by Government Access to Twitter Private Messages On todays episode of The Backstory, host Lee Stranahan discussed current events including the US arresting two men involved with a "secret Chinese police station", and Canada's CBC outlet leaving Twitter.

Guests:Mark Sleboda - International Relations and Security Analyst | Ukraine is Accusing Russia of Weather Wars, Bellingcat, and the Alleged Pentagon Leaker Ian Shilling - Geopolitical Analyst, Researcher, and Blogger | Tony Blair, MI6, and Elon Musk Threatened by SubstackIn the first hour, Lee spoke with Mark Sleboda about Russia's new conscription laws, President Zelensky called for a meeting with his generals, and the alleged Ukraine counter-offensive. Mark talked about claims about Russia's climate weapons, and Donetsk shelled by Kiev during Orthodox Easter celebrations. Mark analyzed the US intel leaks and the involvement of Bellingcat.In the second hour, Lee spoke with Ian Shilling about Tony Blair's decision to bomb Iraq, Rishi Sunak involvement in corrupt payments, and the British Tory party. Ian discussed the new revelations into Tony Blair's decision to bomb Iraq and how Blair bombed Iraq in favor of Bill Clinton. Ian spoke about Joe Biden's visit to Ireland and the danger of robot dogs.We'd love to get your feedback at radio@sputniknews.comThe views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the position of Sputnik.

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the backstory, what is state-affiliated media, fights for bakhmut, when the ukranian offensive starts, pentagon docs leaked, war plans leak, what is biden doing in ireland, who bombed iraq,
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/embattled-rep-george-santos-announces-reelection-bid-1109608384.html

Embattled Rep. George Santos Announces Reelection Bid

Embattled Rep. George Santos Announces Reelection Bid

Rep. George Santos announced via Instagram on Monday that he will seek reelection for the third district of New York, despite calls for his resignation.

2023-04-18T01:40+0000

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2023-04-18T01:37+0000

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New York Rep. George Santos (R) announced on Monday via an Instagram post that he will be running for reelection in 2024, despite pushback over fabrications he made about his life.Santos wrote in his release that he was "elected to fulfill my campaign promises of securing our border, lowering the high cost of living, solving the disastrous SALT issue in our tax code and fighting the [New York Governor Kathy] Hochul crime crisis of policies empowering criminals to terrorize the people of New York."Santos became the subject of several investigations and calls to resign after alleged improprieties were discovered in his campaign finance reporting and revelations that showed he misled voters about his education, work experience and heritage. He also falsely claimed his mother survived the 9/11 attacks, and that he lost four employees during the Pulse nightclub shooting.Investigations from various media outlets revealed Santos mother was not in the United States on September 11, 2001, and that none of the victims of the Pulse nightclub shooting were associated with Santos or any of his companies.The myriad of controversies has led to an investigation by the bipartisan House Ethics Committee and multiple prominent politicians, including some Republicans, to demand that the Long Island Congressman resign. The congressman has been adamant he would not resign during his term, though he did admit to embellishing his resume during the campaign.Last month, Santos filed paperwork stating he would seek reelection but politicians often do that so they can keep fundraising while they remain undecided. The paperwork was a hint that Santos might run, his announcement confirms.Santos likely faces an uphill battle to stay in office. Republican party chairman Edward F Cox said in an interview that the organization would not support a Santos reelection campaign and the Nassau County Republican Committee has likewise said they will not endorse him in 2024.A January Siena poll revealed 78% of voters in his district, including 71% of Republicans, wanted Santos to resign amid the controversies.Santos, unsurprisingly, will face a primary challenger. Kellen Curry, an Afghanistan veteran and former vice president at JPMorgan has announced he will seek the Republican nomination. Democrats will also be seeking to regain the seat in the general election, with a county legislator announcing he will seek the spot. Santos predecessor Tom Suozzi, who vacated the seat to unsuccessfully run for governor is also rumored to be in the running, as is Santos opponent in 2022, Rob Zimmerman.Besides the lack of public support, support from his party, and growing questions about his ethics, Santos is also having trouble fundraising. His financial disclosure reports indicate he only has $25,000 on hand and only managed to raise $5,333.26 in donations over the first three months of 2023 while paying $8,400 in donation refunds, meaning the Santos campaign is running at a loss.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230325/george-santos-agrees-to-confess-pay-1300-in-restitution-over-brazil-fraud-case-1108769607.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230202/fbi-reportedly-investigating-george-santos-for-stealing-3000-from-homeless-veteran-1106900623.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230302/us-house-ethics-committee-launches-probe-into-embattled-rep-george-santos-1107960656.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/europe-ditching-russias-nuclear-fuel-will-come-at-high-price-1109631547.html

Europe Ditching Russia's Nuclear Fuel Will Come at High Price

Europe Ditching Russia's Nuclear Fuel Will Come at High Price

The UK, US, Canada, Japan and France on April 16 struck an agreement at the Nuclear Energy Forum at the G7 in Sapporo to expel Russia out of the international nuclear fuel market.

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"European countries, as well as the United States, will reduce the import of enriched uranium from Russia. That is, they will simply gradually abandon it," said Leonid Khazanov. "However, the situation is very ambiguous because, on the one hand, Russia's share in world uranium production does not exceed 10%, but when it comes to uranium enrichment [its share is] about 50%. Unenriched uranium is simply mined uranium. But if you put it in the reactor, the reaction will not go, because there are impurities that interfere [in the process]. Thus, it is necessary to purify uranium from these impurities and obtain uranium-235."'Habit Europe Just Cant Break'On April 16, five countries of the Group of Seven, namely, the UK, US, Canada, Japan and France, pledged to squeeze Russia from the nuclear fuel market "as quickly as possible" in order to deal a blow to the country's economy and "fundamentally leave Russia out in the cold" amid its special military operation to demilitarize and de-Nazify Ukraine.Earlier this year, Western mainstream press fretted over the Old Continent's unwillingness to slap restrictions on Russia's nuclear industry even though the EU earlier moved to phase out and completely ban the country's other energy commodities such as oil, petroleum products, gas and coal. The media dubbed the EU-Russia nuclear cooperation "the habit Europe just cant break."As per the EUs Euratom Supply Agency (ESA), Russia's Rosatom nuclear corporation in 2021 supplied the bloc's reactors with 20% of their natural uranium and provided the EU with 31% of their uranium enrichment services.Furthermore, some European countries have continued to deepen their cooperation with Rosatom over the past year despite the Western sanctions spree. For instance, a new Mochovce-3 Soviet VVER-design reactor came online in Slovakia earlier this year. In addition, TVEL Fuel Company of Rosatom and the Slovak power generation company Slovenske elektrarne a.s. signed a contract for the supply of nuclear fuel to nuclear power plants in Slovakia for 2022-2026 with the possibility of a contract extension to 2030.In August 2022, Hungary issued an authorization to Rosatom to construct two new nuclear reactors in the country. The nation's Paks nuclear power plant operates four Russian-built VVER 440 reactors and receives specific nuclear fuel from Russia. All in all, there are around 18 Russian reactors in Europe.One Doesn't Simply Abandon Russia's Nuclear FuelIt's obvious that Washington is behind the initiative to ban Russia's nuclear fuel, according to the energy expert. Previously, the US twisted the EU hand into abandoning Russia's fossil fuels and replacing Russian natural gas with American LNG. The US has exerted persistent pressure on smaller states of Eastern and Central Europe who receive financial support from Brussels, Khazanov noted, adding that some of them are being threatened of being deprived of funding. In May 2022, Finland rejected a plan to build a Russian nuclear power plant in the Nordic country. However, it's not so easy to ditch Russian nuclear fuel when it comes to existing atomic stations driven by Russia-made reactors.The Western mainstream press has placed emphasis on renewables, claiming that they could partially substitute Russia's energy deliveries. However, according to Khazanov, this won't work."If we are talking about Europe, neither solar nor wind power plants will completely replace traditional [means of] generation there, including nuclear ones," argued Khazanov. "It is necessary to allocate space for these [wind and solar] stations, even if wind farms can still stand on the seabed. For the rest, you have to buy land, and land in Europe is mostly privately owned. This will require funding. As we know, wind farms do not always work. And it happened more than once when wind farms stopped in winter. The sun also does not shine every day in Europe, so there will be no complete replacement. And accordingly, Europe stands at a crossroads. It's thinking what to do: to still increase the share of renewable energy, but it's costly; to retain at least some share of conventional energy sources; or to continue exploiting nuclear power plants? And these issues have not yet been resolved in Europe. They don't know what to do."Winners and Losers of Nuclear Fuel BanKhazanov does not rule out that Washington is planning to buy Russia's nuclear fuel from Rosatom in order to re-export it to Europe. Apparently, the US hopes that Russia would considerably reduce the price, according to the expert. However, the problem is that European power plants are receiving Russia's enriched uranium in the form of "fuel elements" which are specifically designed for Russian-made reactors. A nuclear fuel element typically consists of a container with uranium dioxide fuel pellets. The problem is that fuel elements made in the US are completely different from those produced in Russia, according to Khazanov. "You cannot put elements of one design into another design. At best, this will lead to an accident," he said.At the same time, the G7's initiative concerning Russia's nuclear fuel is unlikely to harm the country's atomic industry, according to the expert. He expects that the demand for atomic energy will grow across the world in the foreseeable future. Moreover, Russia has a pool of friendly countries that are ready to develop bilateral cooperation in this field, the expert noted, referring, in particular, to China and Turkey."China generally has plans to build 150 nuclear reactors because their hydro generation is not that strong, although there are two powerful rivers, the Huang He and the Yangtze. Solar and wind generations do not always work; and they see great prospects in nuclear energy," Khazanov said.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230226/ironclad-ties-why-eu-avoids-sanctioning-russias-nuclear-sector-1107820722.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230414/scientists-ask-scholz-to-keep-german-nuclear-plants-running-past-2023-1109537829.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230411/szijjarto-says-discussed-with-novak-prevention-of-sanctions-against-nuclear-energy-sphere-1109352398.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/european-protests-grow-us-media-hides-nord-stream-culprit-sudan-crisis-grows-1109607293.html

European Protests Grow; US Media Hides Nord Stream Culprit; Sudan Crisis Grows

European Protests Grow; US Media Hides Nord Stream Culprit; Sudan Crisis Grows

Citizens in France and Czechoslovakia take to the street in large numbers as economic and political instability inspires EU citizens to protest.

2023-04-18T09:42+0000

2023-04-18T09:42+0000

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European Protests Grow; US Media Hides Nordstream Culprit; Sudan Crisis Grows Citizens in France and Czechoslovakia take to the street in large numbers as economic and political instability inspires EU citizens to protest.

Mark Sleboda, Moscow based international relations security analyst, joins us to discuss Ukraine. President Vladimir Putin met with Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu as the Russian Federation held drills with its Pacific military assets. Also, President Putin met with the Chinese defense minister to discuss allied military capabilities.Joe Lauria, Editor-in-Chief at Consortium News, joins us to discuss European instability. Citizens in France take to the street in large numbers as economic and political instability inspires EU citizens to protest.K. J. Noh, peace activist, writer, and teacher joins us to discuss China. Annalena Baerbock's trip to China demonstrates that the US grip over the EU bloc is weakening. Also, Brazilian President Lula De Silva is vowing to grow his country's partnership with China.Dan Lazare, Investigative Journalist and Author joins us to discuss the Nord Stream cover-up. The New York Times has released an article arguing against finding out who attacked the Nord Stream pipeline. The US media is complicit in the cover-up of what appears to be a US military attack on Germany.Laith Marouf, broadcaster and journalist based in Beirut, Lebanon joins us to discuss the Middle East. Armed groups in Sudan battle. Also, Saudi Arabia is set to host its first Hamas delegation.Steve Poikonen, National Organizer for Action4Assange, joins us to discuss the media. Elon Musk has revealed that the US government was reading the Twitter direct messages of citizens. Also, the separation of church and state should expand to the separation of media and state in the US.Gerald Horne, Professor of History at the University of Houston, TX, author, historian, researcher joins us to discuss Africa. Civilians are perishing as various Sudanese rival military groups battle for control.Craig Jardula, Co-host of The Convo Couch & AM Wakeup on Rokfin joins us to discuss Julian Assange. The US empire's assault on Julian Assange has demonstrated to the world that it has no claim to moral authority regarding human rights claims.We'd love to get your feedback at radio@sputniknews.comThe views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the position of Sputnik.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/fbi-investigating-ex-us-navy-officer-over-spread-of-pentagon-leaks---reports-1109627599.html

FBI Investigating Ex-US Navy Officer Over Spread of Pentagon Leaks - Reports

FBI Investigating Ex-US Navy Officer Over Spread of Pentagon Leaks - Reports

The United States' Federal Bureau of Investigation has launched an inquiry into former US navy officer Sarah Bils, who runs a social media account believed to be one of the places where the leaked Department of Defense documents were published

2023-04-18T13:13+0000

2023-04-18T13:13+0000

2023-04-18T13:23+0000

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A US media outlet said, citing an unnamed US official, that Bils was "actively under federal investigation, but the circumstances of the content of the investigation are unclear at this time." Citing people in the know, the outlet reported that both the FBI and the US navy were investigating Bils' alleged role in the spread of Pentagon leaks. The ex-navy officer herself has denied any links to the leaks. The 37-year-old said in multiple interviews that she was only one of the people administering the Donbass Devushka (translating from Russian as "Donbas Girl") channel on Telegram, largely dubbed in Western media as "pro-Russian." On April 5, the Donbass Devushka channel posted four of the leaked classified documents to its over 65,000 followers, which have since increased to over 71,000. The Pentagon has launched an investigation into the leaks after several large Russian social media accounts shared the original posts. A package of top secret US Department of Defense documents has been leaked online in the recent weeks, disclosing some of Washington's highly classified military analysis and showing that the US was spying not only on its opponents but also on its allies. The leakage sparked deep concern among US officials, who fear that the situation might endanger the US's sources and undermine important international ties. On Thursday, the FBI arrested Jack Teixeira, a 21-year-old member of the US Air Force National Guard, for his alleged involvement in leaking the classified documents. According to The Washington Post, Teixeira started publishing classified documents on Discord around February 2022, at the beginning of Russia's military operation in Ukraine. On Friday, a federal court in Boston charged Teixeira with the unauthorized retention, removal and transmission of classified information, and ordered him to remain in custody until the next hearing, scheduled for Wednesday.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230413/top-us-officials-may-have-greenlighted-pentagon-leaks-to-mislead-russia---ex-fbi-agent-1109454321.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/g7-slams-other-states-nuclear-policy-while-disrupting-global-disarmament-system---beijing-1109619776.html

G7 Slams Other States' Nuclear Policy While Disrupting Global Disarmament System - Beijing

G7 Slams Other States' Nuclear Policy While Disrupting Global Disarmament System - Beijing

The G7 nations are criticizing other countries' nuclear policy, while themselves undermining the international system of nuclear disarmament and trust of the global community, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said on Tuesday.

2023-04-18T10:59+0000

2023-04-18T10:59+0000

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"The G7, considering itself a judge, is arbitrarily assessing other countries' policy of strategic security and arms control, while, at the same time, it constantly undermines the international system of nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation of nuclear weapons, so it does not deserve the trust of the international community," Wang told a press conference. The diplomat added that China has been always committed to a nuclear self-defense strategy and no first use nuclear policy. Earlier in the day, the top diplomats of the G7 called for China's engagement in strategic risk reduction discussions with the United States amid alleged expansion of the country's nuclear arsenal. Earlier in April, China together with France reaffirmed their commitment to a balanced promotion of the three pillars of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty  nuclear disarmament, nuclear non-proliferation and the peaceful use of nuclear energy  after the talks between Chinese leader Xi Jinping and French President Emmanuel Macron.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230307/kremlin-g7s-oil-price-cap-does-not-exist-in-practice-1108144168.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/hillary-clinton-delights-in-trumps-indictment-assures-biden-will-beat-him-in-2024-1109631833.html

Hillary Clinton Delights in Trump's Indictment, Assures Biden Will Beat Him in 2024

Hillary Clinton Delights in Trump's Indictment, Assures Biden Will Beat Him in 2024

Books have been written about alleged criminal activity involving the Clintons, from Clinton Foundation fraud to the mysterious death of Vince Foster, Mrs. Clintons email server and Mr. Clintons flights aboard the Lolita Express.

2023-04-18T16:32+0000

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Hillary Clinton has been unable to hide her delight over her 2016 rivals indictment, claiming the criminal charges against Donald Trump stem from his blatant disregard for the law, both in business and in his political career.So he has been indicted, and there may be others as well, but he has said hes going to keep running and theres nothing in our current system of laws that would prevent him from running. But even if he gets the Republican nomination, he cannot, in my view, be reelected president, the former first lady assured.Pointing out that Trump has a hard core of supporters who will likely help him win the Republican nomination, Clinton stressed that this will not be enough for the general election, and that more people are on to him and his behavior than they were before.Trump vs. ClintonDuring a pivotal presidential debate in 2016, after Clinton suggested that it was awfully good that someone with the temperament of Donald Trump is not in charge of the law in our country, Trump famously responded Because youd be in jail.Trump never followed through with threats to jail his opponent.Instead, the former president himself is now facing criminal charges and possibly even jail time on 34 felony counts in a New York court related to hush money payments to a porn star in 2016. Trump has dismissed any wrongdoing, and has even called the porn star a horse face that he would never sleep with. He has charged the White House, the Justice Department and Democratic prosecutors of trying to stop him from making another run for office after the collapse of Russiagate and twin failed impeachments.Trump became the first former president in the Americas 240+ year history to face criminal charges. His adversaries have argued that the charges against him are a sign that no one, not even a former president, is above the law.Others assert that the charges against Trump are misdemeanors at best, and that his immediate predecessors, who presided over illegal invasions of other countries, signed off on illegal drone warfare programs and revoked habeas corpus in the United States, have committed far worse crimes. This includes the Clinton family, which has amassed an extensive list of allegations against them over their four+ decades in politics, ranging from allegations of financial crimes to a so-called Clinton body count (dismissed by legacy media as a conspiracy theory), but has never faced any criminal charges.Trump's indictment failed to take the wind out of the candidate's sails for 2024, with his presidential campaign pulling in over $15 million over the past two weeks, and the former president edging out Biden in several recent polls.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230407/no-donald-trump-is-above-the-law-1109224590.html

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Group of Seven member states plans to stand up to any Chinese "coercion" in the Taiwan Strait

One senior US State Department official said that the G7 is considering asserting its influence in the region to push Beijing back

The situation comes amid rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific region as China continues to expand its influence to other nations

Member states from the "Group of Seven," more commonly known as the G7, have a shared stance on the China-Taiwan issue and are considering asserting influence in the Taiwan Strait to push Beijing back from the region.

The various representatives of the group of global powers agree that there is a need to stand up to any Chinese "coercion" or attempts to spread control in the Taiwan Strait. A senior US State Department official detailed the situation on Monday amid rising tensions surrounding Taiwan's claimed independence.

G7 Member States Agree on Stance Against China

Officials are increasingly concerned about China's continuously aggressive stance on Taiwan. The situation in the Indo-Pacific region has been a key point of discussion during conversations between G7 foreign ministers during a meeting held in Japan's Karuizawa, as per Reuters.

The official added that the same message was echoed among G7 members where they wanted to cooperate and China with where Beijing is willing. They added that they would not stand idly by if China conducts market manipulation or tries to change the status quo in the Taiwan Strait.

Ministers in the group have become increasingly keen on standing under a unified front. The situation comes after French President Emmanuel Macron recently commented that he was siding with Beijing on China's territorial claim of Taiwan.

Macron visited Beijing earlier this month and cautioned against being dragged into a crisis over Taiwan that he claims was driven by an "American rhythm and a Chinese overreaction." Japan, the only Asian member of the G7, has become increasingly concerned over Beijing's potential aggressive moves on Taiwan.

Read Also: US Military Helicopter Raid Kills Senior ISIS Leader

Member States Plan To Assert Influence in Taiwan Strait

The meeting on Monday between G7 member states primarily focused on Russia's war on Ukraine. According to the Associated Press, the discussions are expected to pave the way for action by leaders of the G7 in their scheduled meeting next month in Hiroshima.

Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi said that the world is now at a "turning point" with the fighting in Ukraine. He said global leaders should reject "unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force."

Hayashi argued that this includes Russia's continued aggression against Ukraine and its threat of using nuclear weapons in the conflict. The American delegation in the meeting viewed the gathering as an opportunity to raise the issue of China's aggression on Taiwan.

The G7 representatives also discussed energy and food security and stronger engagement with nations known as the Global South. These are a loose category of roughly 100 countries, many of which are developing and remain non-aligned with any major global powers, said the Japan Times.

Related Article: Top Kremlin Critic Vladimir Kara-Murza Sentenced to 25 Years in Jail

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/launch-of-sme-logistics-cost-co-financing-service-summed-up-1109613868.html

Launch of SME Logistics Cost Co-Financing Service Summed Up

Launch of SME Logistics Cost Co-Financing Service Summed Up

The results of the pilot launch of the service for co-financing SMEs' transportation costs, which was included in the list of support measures for export support centers (ESC) in 2022, were summed up at the All-Russian conference of export support infrastructure, the Russian Export Center (part of VEB.RF) reported.

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2023-04-18T06:29+0000

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"Natalia Minaeva, director for the development of regional export support infrastructure, and Galina Erendzhenova, project manager for the development of export logistics, spoke about the results of the pilot together with the conference participants," the report says. Thus, representatives of export support centers noted that the service is in high demand among businesses, because it helps enterprises save up to 80% on transporting products. The exchange of top-notch practices and troubleshooting when carrying out the service will allow the REC to "fine-tune" the support measure, thereby bolstering its effectiveness for business, the discussion participants said. More information about the service can be obtained by contacting regional export support centers. The event is taking place in Volgograd from April 17-20, 2023.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230406/rec-pskov-region-increases-number-of-partner-countries-in-2022-1109191122.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/macron-aims-to-approach-china-with-russia-ukraine-negotiation-plan---reports-1109615724.html

Macron Aims to Approach China With Russia-Ukraine Negotiation Plan - Reports

Macron Aims to Approach China With Russia-Ukraine Negotiation Plan - Reports

French President Emmanuel Macron wants to secure Chinas help and advance a plan that could lead to negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, media reported on Tuesday.

2023-04-18T08:29+0000

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2023-04-18T08:30+0000

russia's special operation in ukraine

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Macron believes that this plan could bring Moscow and Kiev to a negotiating table this summer. The French president has reportedly tasked his foreign policy adviser Emmanuel Bonne to cooperate with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to work towards creating a basis for future talks between Moscow and Kiev. According to media reports, Macrons plan will be based on long-term security guarantees for Kiev.In February, Beijing released a 12-point document entitled "China's Position on the Political Settlement of the Ukraine Crisis," that underlines respect for the sovereignty of all countries, the cessation of hostilities and the resumption of peace talks between Moscow and Kiev. In the document, Beijing also condemned the abuse of unilateral sanctions, saying that they did not contribute to the settlement of the crisis.Moscow launched its special military operation in Ukraine in February 2022. Russian and Ukrainian delegations have engaged in several rounds of peace talks since then, but the negotiations ultimately reached an impasse. Russia has insisted that it is open for talks with Ukraine, even after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a decree prohibiting negotiations with Moscow in October 2022.Western nations have imposed numerous sanctions on Russia and have been supplying weapons to Ukraine. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has said any cargo that contains weaponry for Ukraine will become a legitimate target for Russia.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230415/us-to-give-ukraine-49-billion-in-budget-support-1109550665.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/medvedev-west-demands-guarantees-from-russia-but-hints-at-future-nuclear-conflict-1109619564.html

Medvedev: West Demands Guarantees From Russia, But Hints at Future Nuclear Conflict

Medvedev: West Demands Guarantees From Russia, But Hints at Future Nuclear Conflict

The West demands guarantees from Russia about nuclear weapons, but, in fact, hints at a future nuclear conflict between Russia and NATO, Russian Security Council Deputy Chairman Dmitry Medvedev said on Tuesday.

2023-04-18T10:55+0000

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"They are endlessly hypocritical and lie to their own and others, but they say that our country is spreading 'false information' about Ukraine. They demand that Russia give them some kind of guarantees about nuclear weapons, but in fact, they are hinting at a future nuclear conflict between our country and NATO," Medvedev wrote on Telegram.In a joint statement issues earlier in the day, the G7 foreign ministers once again called on Russia to return to a dialogue with the US to reduce nuclear risks. In March, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov said that the transfer of all notifications between Russia and the United States under the New START, including notifications about test launches, has been suspended. Ryabkov said that all forms of information sharing under the New START treaty have been suspended, but Moscow will keep notifying Washington of ICBM and SLBM launches.In February 2023, Moscow announced the suspension of its participation in the New START, which was signed by Russia and the US in 2010 and envisaged mutual inspections of the strategic nuclear facilities of the two countries. Russian President Vladimir Putin said that the US had demanded that Russia unconditionally fulfill its obligations under the treaty, while acting arbitrarily concerning its own obligations.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/moldovan-farmers-demand-government-limit-ukrainian-grain-supplies-or-provide-compensation-1109631427.html

Moldovan Farmers Demand Government Limit Ukrainian Grain Supplies or Provide Compensation

Moldovan Farmers Demand Government Limit Ukrainian Grain Supplies or Provide Compensation

Moldovan farmers demand that the government either provide compensation to local farmers or restrict grain imports from Ukraine, due to the risks Ukraine's massive supplies entail for domestic production.

2023-04-18T16:12+0000

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"We are demanding that the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry join talks of relevant bodies of the Eastern European countries regarding prices on agricultural products and make necessary efforts to provide compensation for farmers from Moldova or temporarily restrict grain imports in our country in the new agricultural season," the association said in a statement. Recent temporary bans imposed by some EU member states on grain supplies from Ukraine increase the risk of rising imports in other countries, including Moldova, farmers said. On Saturday, Poland and Hungary said they were banning imports of Ukrainian agricultural products until June 30, citing the need to protect domestic farmers from the uncontrolled influx of cheap grain from Ukraine. On Monday, Slovak Prime Minister Eduard Heger said that Slovakia would join these countries in suspending grain imports from Ukraine. Bulgaria is also mulling a similar ban, according to the country's agriculture minister, Yavor Gechev.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/over-24000-took-part-in-spontaneous-protests-in-france-60-detained-1109627273.html

Over 24,000 Took Part in Spontaneous Protests in France, 60 Detained

Over 24,000 Took Part in Spontaneous Protests in France, 60 Detained

Over 24,000 people took part in spontaneous protests in France following President Emmanuel Macrons address on the pension reform, and the police have detained about 60 protesters, Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said on Tuesday.

2023-04-18T13:09+0000

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"According to the figures given to me by the prefects, 24,000 people took to the streets yesterday in France  in Paris, Provence and other regions. About 60 arrests were carried out, but the situation was much less tense than in previous weeks," Darmanin said on air of the LCI broadcaster. He also noted that the police would not interrupt any further spontaneous demonstrations since freedom of assembly, "whatever the cause," is enshrined in the French constitution. On Monday, Macron admitted in a televised speech that the reform was clearly not accepted by society and he regretted that "a consensus on it was not found." In Paris, activists staged a "concert" at the city hall, banging pots and spoons against each other in protest against the president's speech. In Paris, Lyon, Rennes, Nantes and a number of other cities, demonstrations turned into spontaneous riots, which were dispersed with tear gas by law enforcement. In Lyon, protesters also set on fire the entrance to the police station. On Friday, the French Constitutional Council approved the key article of the pension reform bill, which would gradually raise the age of retirement in France from 62 to 64 years by 2030. Macron then signed the reform into law and it was published in Frances Official Journal (Le Journal Officiel) in the early hours of Saturday. French unions called on workers to go on a general nationwide strike against the reform on May 1, according to the General Confederation of Labour. Several previous nationwide protests organized by unions attracted over 1 million supporters across France.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/proxy-war-with-russia-has-brought-wests-hegemony-to-brink-of-collapse-german-lawmaker-warns-1109630276.html

Proxy War With Russia Brings West's Hegemony to Brink of Collapse, German Lawmaker Warns

Proxy War With Russia Brings West's Hegemony to Brink of Collapse, German Lawmaker Warns

The Wests decades-long push to drag Ukraine into the EU and NATO has sparked a direct confrontation with Russia, with the US and its allies sending weapons to Kiev and slapping over 12,600 sanctions on Moscow. These moves prompted Russia to reorient its economic ties to the developing world, and sparked a crisis in many EU countries.

2023-04-18T15:08+0000

2023-04-18T15:08+0000

2023-04-18T15:20+0000

world

germany

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ukraine

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The collective Wests economic war against Russia has weakened and isolated the US and Europe, as well as sparking unprecedented resistance to Western neocolonialism from the Global South, a senior German lawmaker has warned.In its confrontation against Russia and China, the Biden administration is trying to establish a world of neocolonial oppression in order to prevent the loss of its hegemonic status, Die Linke (The Left) lawmaker Sevim Dagdelen wrote in a recent piece in a German daily.Dagdelen pointed to the growing failure of Western efforts to justify unilateral sanctions at international venues like the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, as well as growing signs of a veritable flight away from the US dollar as the worlds de facto reserve currency. In a rapid development, more and more countries around the world are deciding to de-dollarize their trade relations, and thus cut the ability of the USA to continue to finance its wars and proxy wars via the printing press, she wrote.Former President of Ghana Kwame Nkrumah describes neocolonialism as a systemic problem of the postcolonial state in relation to the former European colonial empires. According to Nkrumah, ex-colonies achieved independence in theory and in form, but without actually gaining sovereignty. And we see how attempts continue to be made in the 21st century to organize the neo-colonial subjugation of the African continent, be it through the ruthless exploitation of raw materials by Western corporations, or the power of financial organizations that determine the fate of African countries to their detriment. The collective and self-confident refusal of the nations of the Global South to participate in the Wests proxy war in Ukraine shows that this system is increasingly faltering, Dagdelen wrote.Dagdelen has emerged as one of the most outspoken critics of German involvement in the NATO proxy war in Ukraine over the past year, citing the risk of the conflict escalating into a Third World War. The lawmaker has demanded the expulsion of US troops from Germany, slammed US aggression in Syria, criticized neo-Nazism in Eastern Europe, and emphasized that security in Europe cannot be achieved without Russia.Dagdelen is not alone in the German parliament when it comes to pursuing anti-US imperialist policies. Late last year, veteran German statesman Oskar Lafontaine, another Die Linke member, slammed Berlins spinelessness in failing to stand up to Washington, and warned that if Germany doesnt join the new multipolar world order as an independent actor, it will be drawn into Washingtons conflicts with Moscow and Beijing as American vassals.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230417/inevitable-de-dollarization-which-countries-are-moving-away-from-greenback-1109592646.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20221128/german-statesman-slams-eu-leaders-spinelessness-demands-natos-dismemberment-closure-of-us-bases-1104796406.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/putin-visited-staff-of-dnepr-grouping-of-troops-in-kherson-region-kremlin-1109610952.html

Putin Travels to Kherson Region to Meet Russian Troops, Pays First Visit to Lugansk - Video

Putin Travels to Kherson Region to Meet Russian Troops, Pays First Visit to Lugansk - Video

Russian President Vladimir Putin visited the staff of the Dnepr grouping of troops in the Kherson Region, the Kremlin press service said in a statement.

2023-04-18T04:34+0000

2023-04-18T04:34+0000

2023-04-21T11:06+0000

russia's special operation in ukraine

russia

vladimir putin

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"Vladimir Putin visited the Vostok National Guard staff in the Lugansk People's Republic, where he received reports from Col Gen Alexander Lapin and other senior officers on the situation in that area," the statement said.Putin's visits to the staff of the Dnepr grouping of troops in the Kherson Region and to the Vostok National Guard staff in the Lugansk People's Republic were quite impromptu, the Kremlin press service said.This was Vladimir Putin's first visit to the LPR and the Kherson Region, which joined Russia after 2022 referendums.Earlier in the day, Vladimir Putin visited the staff of the Dnepr grouping of troops in the Kherson Region."Vladimir Putin, at the staff of the Dnepr grouping of troops in the Kherson Region, listened to reports from the commander of the Airborne Troops, Col Gen Mikhail Teplinsky, the commander of the Dnepr grouping of troops, Col Gen Oleg Makarevich and other military leadership," the Kremlin press service said.In March, Putin paid a surprise visit to Mariupol, inspecting the city infrastructure and talking to local residents. Russian Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin accompanied the president during the visit and reported on the progress of construction and restoration work in the city and its environs, discussing new residential micro-districts, social, educational and health facilities.In mid-December 2022, Vladimir Putin visited the joint headquarters of the forces involved in the special military operation. On 30 September 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin and the heads of the Donetsk and Lugansk people's republics, as well as Kherson and Zaporozhye regions, signed agreements on the accession of these territories to Russia, after referendums were held that showed that an overwhelming majority of the local population supported becoming part of Russia.Russia launched a special military operation in Ukraine in February 2022 in response to calls by the Donetsk and Lugansk People's Republics for protection from Ukrainian troops. The Russian Defense Ministry said the operation, which targets Ukrainian military infrastructure, aims to "demilitarize and de-Nazify" Ukraine, and to liberate Donbass.Western nations have imposed numerous sanctions on Russia and have been supplying weapons to Ukraine. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has said any cargo that contains weaponry for Ukraine will become a legitimate target for Russia.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230319/russian-president-putin-visits-mariupol-kremlin-1108553131.html

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Russian President Vladimir Putin arrives in the Kherson Region to visit troops taking part in the special military operation on 18 April 2023. Russian President Vladimir Putin arrives in the Kherson Region to visit troops taking part in the special military operation on 18 April 2023. 2023-04-18T04:34+0000 true PT4M55S

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/rec-export-support-infrastructure-conference-opens-in-volgograd-1109610525.html

REC: Export Support Infrastructure Conference Opens in Volgograd

REC: Export Support Infrastructure Conference Opens in Volgograd

A nationwide export support infrastructure conference aimed at summarizing the results of regional export support centers' activities in the first quarter of 2023 started Monday in Volgograd, the Russian Export Center (part of VEB.RF) reported.

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russia

russian export center jsc (rec)

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"Conference participants include representatives of the Russian Export Center, heads of export support centers from 80 constituent bodies of the Russian Federation, and heads of regional 'My Business' centers. The event was opened by Galina Bykadorova, chairwoman of the Committee for Economic Policy and Development of the Volgograd Region. She noted that this was the first time the Volgograd region had hosted such a large event," the report says."Export support for small and medium-sized businesses at the federal level has traditionally been built on the basis of successful regional experience, which is why the Russian Export Center pays special attention to the collection, analysis and adaptation of the best regional practices and helps to implement them so that in every corner of our country, small and medium-sized businesses can receive highly qualified assistance from professionals when entering foreign markets," Natalia Minaeva, Director for Development of the REC's Regional Export Support Infrastructure, said.The conference lasts four days until 20 April, and during the time, there will be strategic sessions for small and medium-sized businesses on export transportation and financial support when entering foreign markets and a presentation of a B2B marketplace, Export Professionals, which operates on the digital platform, My Export. The event will also look at best practice from the regions, including the involvement of young people in exports.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230412/rec-my-export-will-help-find-markets-to-sell-digital-goods---1109382522.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/rec-indian-markets-negotiation-potential-for-exporters-partners-valued-at-over-14mln-1109617937.html

REC: Indian Market's Negotiation Potential for Exporters, Partners Valued at Over $14Mln

REC: Indian Market's Negotiation Potential for Exporters, Partners Valued at Over $14Mln

The Russian Export Center (REC, part of VEB.RF) is opening up the Indian market to companies from Russia, and following three exhibitions and business missions in 2023, the potential for negotiations has surpassed $14 million.

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Nikishina explained, "In 2023, we so far held three exhibition events in India. At the beginning of the year, we organized a stand for Russian companies at the international Dehliwood exhibition of raw materials, technologies, and equipment for furniture production and woodworking.A month later, REC presented a collective expo at the international exhibition of technologies and infrastructure called Smart City. And just two weeks ago, we organized a business mission for Russian companies in the field of high technology within the framework of the Cooperation for Development and Growth forum. It was arranged jointly with the Roscongress Foundation and the Business Council for Cooperation with India."According to the REC chief, a business mission for Russian companies in the field of food products and consumer goods is also planned for October 2023 in India."Such events lay a good foundation for further cooperation between Russian and Indian companies and will aim to strengthen the relationships between our business circles," Nikishina concluded.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230413/russian-export-center-supported-291-companies-in-bashkiria-in-2022-1109481206.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/russian-government-approves-development-of-my-export-digital-platform--1109618589.html

Russian Government Approves Development of 'My Export' Digital Platform

Russian Government Approves Development of 'My Export' Digital Platform

The main objective is to streamline and broaden the accessibility of services for exporters and importers, using the "My Export" digital platform.

2023-04-18T11:32+0000

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The government of the Russian Federation has approved the development of the digital platform "My Export". As part of building the digital platform "My Export" (Single Window System), a single catalogue of services and federal and regional measures to support foreign trade will be created in 2023-2024. A single register of exporters and importers will be formed, and convenient conditions will be organized for their interaction with government agencies. These and other measures are planned to be implemented according to the order signed by the Prime Minister of the Russian Federation, Mikhail Mishustin."The primary task of developing the platform is to help Russian entrepreneurs enter foreign markets, accompany them at every step of the export path, and make it as convenient as possible for them in the digital sphere. Work in this direction is continually ongoing, and we factor in the needs of exporters, and effectively interact with departments. At the same time, we understand that it is necessary, first and foremost, to improve the processes and further unify them. The measures specified in the Government's order will help us to perform these tasks faster and more efficiently," said Veronika Nikishina, the CEO of the Russian Export Center (part of VEB.RF).In order to make it easier and more convenient for exporters to interact with government agencies in an electronic format, plans are in store to create a unified comprehensive list of services and support measures at the regional and federal levels in the field of foreign trade and improve the work of state information systems that provide access to such services.In addition, it is planned to integrate the "My Export" digital platform with the information systems of government bodies and organizations. This will allow users to be promptly notified of the possibility of obtaining services and support measures, as well as to provide information on the status of the provision of these services and their results.Plans are also in store to hammer out a regulatory and technological framework for an operational and convenient system for entrepreneurs to interact with government agencies, including in the consideration of appeals, and to create a single registry of participants in foreign trade. This will enable the authorities to streamline support for exporters and importers, based on specific business situations. In addition, government agencies will be able to monitor business activity, create personalized environments for entrepreneurs in their personal accounts, and send them relevant offers.The Ministry of Economic Development and the Russian Export Center, which is its operator, will coordinate the work on developing the digital platform.

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Slovakia has banned food imports from Ukraine, following other European countries, such as Poland and Hungary. Its latest move comes despite the previous warning the European Union (EU) issued against such a move.

The latest ban on Ukraine's agriculture imports comes shortly after Hungary threatened to extend its grain ban. The latter urges the EU to kick off measures that would help protect Hungarian farmers.

Slovakia Bans Ukraine Food Import

Slovakia has announced that it will ban some agricultural imports from Ukraine. France24 reports that the government of Slovakia confirmed that it has already approved the ban. Other countries in central and eastern Europe are reportedly issuing a similar stance.

However, the Slovakian country clarifies that the new measure skips on grains. And as such, it will continue to import grains from Ukraine despite the ban on other food products. The latest move seeks to protect the interest of farmers in the country amid the significantly low prices of Ukrainian food.

According to Financial Times, Slovakia's ban takes place even as the EU disapproved of the temporary pause in imports. The European Commission says, "EU's trade policy is of exclusive competence and, therefore, unilateral actions are unacceptable."

Read Also: US Mass Sanctions: Officials Target 120 Entities Supporting Russia's Invasion of Ukraine

Poland, Hungary Initiate Ukraine Import Ban

Ukraine's agricultural goods have recently decreased in price, making them relatively cheaper than other European countries. The significantly more affordable pricing has triggered its neighbors to pause their imports.

Besides Slovakia, Poland and Hungary initiated the import ban. The two countries kicked off the ban on Ukraine grains to protect their farmers in their countries amid the meager prices of agriculture from the conflicted nation.

However, while Slovakia has banned some food products from Ukraine, it says it will still accept grains, according to Al Jazeera. The agriculture minister of Hungary, Sandor Farkas, told the EU that if it does place measures to protect its farmers, they are looking to extend the import ban on Ukrainian grain until June.

Meanwhile, the leader of the governing party in Poland, Jaroslaw Kaczynski, shared that their country is now grappling with a "moment of crisis." And as much as they support Ukraine, they prioritize the protection of their farmers.

Since then, Ukraine has already responded to the ban. Officials in the conflicted country say that while the farmers of Poland might be affected, Ukrainians are suffering much more.

Despite all these, the four European countries, including Ukraine, Poland, Romania, and Slovakia, will meet in the next few weeks to discuss pressing matters. Meanwhile, the representatives of the EU have yet to discuss the matter concerning import bans on Ukrainian goods.

It remains to be seen if another European nation plans to join Poland, Slovakia, and Hungary in banning food imports from Ukraine from protecting their agriculture.

Related Article: Hungary To Benefit If Russia Wins Against Ukraine, Ex-MEP Claims

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/syrian-president-assad-saudi-foreign-minister-hold-talks-in-damascus-amid-push-to-restore-ties-1109635612.html

Syrian President Assad, Saudi Foreign Minister Hold Talks in Damascus Amid Push to Restore Ties

Syrian President Assad, Saudi Foreign Minister Hold Talks in Damascus Amid Push to Restore Ties

The devastating earthquakes which rocked northern Syria in February resulted in an unprecedented outpouring of humanitarian support from the countrys neighbors, as well as a concerted diplomatic effort to end regional involvement in the decade-long US-led dirty war against the Syrian government.

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2023-04-18T19:24+0000

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Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al-Saud travelled to Damascus on Tuesday for talks with Syrian President Bashar Assad  with the trip constituting the first visit of its kind in more than a decade, and coming amid the push to restore ties and reopen embassies.President Assad and Prince Faisal discussed bilateral ties, as well as international matters, with Assad asking the foreign minister to convey his greetings to the Saudi King and Crown Prince, as well as the brotherly Saudi people.Prince Faisal reiterated Saudi Arabias support for Syrias territorial integrity, and efforts to restore stability and security  in open defiance the policies being pursued by Riyadhs traditional partners in Washington  which continue to occupy about a third of the Middle Eastern nation's territory.Prince Faisals appearance in Damascus, which followed Syrian Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdads historic trip to Saudi Arabia last week, would have been unthinkable just two months ago.Relations between the two countries collapsed to a post-Cold War low point in the early 2010s after Riyadh joined the US-led effort to try to depose Assad, and sent weapons to rebel fighters. Diplomatic relations were broken off in early 2012. The kingdoms position gradually began shifting in the late 2010s, with Riyadh disengaging with representatives of Syrias opposition, and then beginning reconciliation talks with Damascus in late 2018  with Irans support for Syria in its battle against terrorism reportedly considered a key sticking point.The success of the China-brokered negotiations on the restoration of Iranian-Saudi relations last month resulted in reconciliation talks in other conflict areas being sped up as well, leading to hopes that putting the Iranian-Saudi regional rivalry to bed could help facilitate peace in Syria, as well as Yemen.Saudi Arabia, which is preparing to host a summit of the Arab League next month, is expected to invite President Assad to attend the meeting  a move that would signal a push toward the restoration of Syrias membership in the 22-nation regional body -12 years after its suspension in 2011.Saudi Arabia is one of multiple regional countries that has made a concerted push to restore ties with Syria in recent weeks. The broad regional effort to put an end the Syrian crisis threatens to undermine Washingtons position in the region - with the US strategy focused on the preservation of the status quo, including the illegal occupation of wide swathes of oil and food-rich Syrian territory. Damascus has vowed to one day restore control over all of its internationally recognized territories, and repeatedly called for all military forces in the country which were not invited by the Syrian government to withdraw.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/top-public-officials-security-in-japan-was---and-still-is---a-problem-1109629200.html

Top Public Officials Security in Japan Was - And Still is - a Problem

Top Public Officials Security in Japan Was - And Still is - a Problem

Japan continues to experience assaults by so-called lone wolves on top public officials. Former Prime Minister Abe was killed in such an attack, and shortly before the next stage of local elections in Japan, a new attack on the current Prime Minister Kishida occurred.

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The question is whether this incident is an unpleasant trend: one occurrence could be chance, yet two indicate a pattern. If so, what are the underlying causes of this phenomenon and why is it still happening?According to Valery Kistanov, head of the Center for Japanese Studies at the University of China and Modern Asia, these two attacks do not yet allow us to understand the motives: We have to wait for the arrested young man to speak up, since there might be many causes for his actions. It is yet unclear whether it was due to some public dissatisfaction or he simply wanted to scare people. When Abe was killed, there were assumptions about political motives  that it was an attack on democracy. However, it was later revealed that the reasons for the assassination were purely personal: the young man held a grudge against the Unification Church which had bankrupted his family. The attacker wanted to take his anger out on the leader of the church, but the leader wasnt there and thats the reason Abe became his random victim. And a 24-year-old who attacked Kishida is in fact very young. It is unlikely he has serious philosophical, conceptual or ideological motives of the attack.However, the expert suggested that the young shooter simply wanted to become famous, just like former Prime Minister Abes shooter Tetsuya Yamagami. In other words, he was really inspired by Yamagamis actions, since almost all international media outlets reported on the case, insuring the shooters worldwide fame. Reading Japanese reports on this attack one would endorse empathy towards the detained young man, whose family had been affected by Unification Church  since he grew up in poverty, and was not really to blame for what happened. The attacker of Kishida may have similarly unexpected motives. Now he is not saying anything and he did not even resist arrest. As of now, it is unclear whether he wanted to kill someone or not.Meanwhile, Hideto Osanai, the head of CCTT Inc, which provides protection for high-ranking individuals both in Japan and internationally, deputy chairman of the International Bodyguard Association, and representative of this organization in Asia and Japan, told Sputnik newswire that Japanese policemen had learned from the former Prime Minister Sindzo Abes assassination.Indeed, the security team acted professionally in the case of Kishida. Nonetheless, the incident itself was not foiled  even though it had no tragic consequences.Valery Kistanov noted: "Japanese police took security measures in the case of Kishida, but made an obvious mistake for the second time. The reasons for this are obvious: the event took place outdoors, and the crowd was not actually controlled, as the Japanese press itself reports. However, it is expected that the most serious security measures will finally be taken on the eve of the G7 summit in Hiroshima."

https://sputnikglobe.com/20220927/shinzo-abe-japan-holds-state-funeral-for-former-prime-minister-1101262042.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/trumps-presidential-campaign-hauls-in-over-15-million-in-post-indictment-donations-1109621210.html

Trump's Presidential Campaign Hauls in Over $15 Million in Post-Indictment Donations

Trump's Presidential Campaign Hauls in Over $15 Million in Post-Indictment Donations

Since Donald Trump was indicted by a grand jury on March 30, there has been a tremendous surge of support towards his presidential campaign from donors, electoral filings show.

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Since Donald Trump was indicted by a grand jury in Manhattan on March 30, there has been a tremendous surge of support towards his presidential campaign from donors, electoral filings cited by media outlets have revealed.In the two weeks since his appearance in a Manhattan court to be arraigned, Trump's campaign coffers are said to have swelled by more than $15 million. Over 300,000 individuals rushed to fund the 45th president's 2024 bid after the historic event, with 98% of these individuals being small donors contributing less than $200. Likewise, 24% of donations are said to have come from first-time contributors, according to figures the campaign released ahead of disclosing them to the Federal Election Commission as part of quarterly filings. Trump announced his campaign for a non-consecutive second term in the Oval Office on November 15, 2022. He has been raising money for his presidential bid using his campaign and political action committee, Save America PAC. Since January 1, Trump had been raising an average $168,000 per day.The fundraising raked in a total of $18.8 million in the first quarter. However, a day after the indictment, the campaign is cited as registering $4 million in contributions. Trump's main 'vehicle' for accumulating campaign money - Save America Joint Fundraising Committee - boasted a haul worth $14 million in the first three months of the year, it was added.Former US President Trump has been charged with 34 counts of falsifying business records in the first degree in connection with his alleged involvement in a $130,000 hush money payment, and subsequent cover-up involving a supposed affair with adult film star Stormy Daniels, among others. Trump pleaded not guilty to the charges during his arraignmentTrump has insisted that this is a persecution, not an investigation. He has also maintained that he would not abandon plans to fight for another stint at the White House.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230405/dangerous--illegal-overreach-gop-allies-slam-trumps-criminal-indictment-1109142759.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/turkish-nato-envoy-calls-media-reports-on-swedens-compliance-misleading-1109628018.html

Turkish NATO Envoy Calls Media Reports on Sweden's Compliance Misleading

Turkish NATO Envoy Calls Media Reports on Sweden's Compliance Misleading

The Turkish envoy to NATO said on Tuesday that Sweden was less in compliance with Ankara's requirements for its accession to the military alliance than foreign media let on.

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Levent Gumrukcu told Turkish newspaper in an interview that media made it took like Sweden had addressed all objections to its membership of NATO and the ball was in Turkiye's court. Turkiye has demanded guarantees from Sweden and Finland that they will not harbor Kurdish separatists, whom it perceives as terrorists. Finland was cleared to join NATO in late March, while Sweden's admission stalled over pro-Kurdish protests in Stockholm. Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said in March that Ankara expected Sweden to make tangible progress in the fight against terrorism. NATO chief Jens Stolteberg argued at the Finnish accession ceremony in April that Sweden too had complied with every requirement. The Swedish government has denied sheltering people with ties to the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), which is banned in Turkiye. Despite this, Turkish media reported Tuesday that PKK flags were seen flying outside government institutions in the country's second-largest city, Gothenburg.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/two-people-injured-in-jerusalem-shooting-police-searching-for-perpetrator-1109615572.html

Two People Injured in Jerusalem Shooting, Police Searching for Perpetrator

Two People Injured in Jerusalem Shooting, Police Searching for Perpetrator

Two people were injured as a result of shooting near a border police base in Jerusalem on Tuesday morning, according to media reports.

2023-04-18T07:52+0000

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The two injured persons, ultra-orthodox men who were on their way back from morning prayers, have been sent to medical centers, Israeli newspaper reported, citing a police spokesperson. The Israel police said a helicopter was engaged in searching the shooter, and the weapon used has already been found. On Thursday, the Israeli police stated that they had thwarted a stabbing attack planned to take place in Jerusalem during the Jewish Passover celebration. Over the past few days Israeli police have reinforced security measures in Jerusalem's Old Town, where thousands of Christian, Jewish and Muslim pilgrims have gathered to celebrate key holidays of their religions. This year's celebrations are taking place amid growing tension between Israelis and Palestinians, including the dispute over the status of Temple Mount.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/ukrainian-tankers-accidentally-rip-turret-off-leopard-2-during-training--photos-1109628677.html

Ukrainian Tankers Accidentally Rip Turret Off Leopard 2 During Training  Photos

Ukrainian Tankers Accidentally Rip Turret Off Leopard 2 During Training  Photos

NATO has committed to send over two battalions of the third-generation tank to Ukraine. The Russian military has pledged to meet the advanced Western tanks with specialized tank-hunting units.

2023-04-18T13:45+0000

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Another Ukraine-bound Leopard 2A4 appears to have suffered damage, this time at a Polish training ground before ever getting a chance to make it to the front.Recounting the incident, Polish Army Reserve Officer Piotr Pavelka said Ukrainian tankers apparently just drove into each other during maneuvers.It probably happened like this: one tank drove on top of the other one, drove into its armor and crashed into the turret, simply tearing the turret out of the hull, Pavelka said.The officer accompanied the post with images of the damaged tank, which have also appeared elsewhere online.Ill be honest, I dont remember ever seeing such clumsy vehicle control anywhere, Pavelka said.Ukrainian and NATO military officials have yet to comment on the incident.However, Polish defense media received confirmation from Polands Armed Forces that the incident took place, indicating that it transpired on April 14 at the Leopard Training Center under the 10th Armored Cavalry Brigade in Swietoszow, western Poland. The Ukrainian tankers operating the Leopard 2s were not injured in the incident, and the damaged tank has not been deemed lost irretrievably, but transferred to a repair facility, where it will be inspected and possibly returned to service.Polish media complained about the photos of the damaged tank being posted online, suggesting they will now be used by Russian propaganda to spread disinformation, including false information that the vehicle was destroyed during fighting. The photos could also be used to try to set Poles and Ukrainians at odds, an outlet claimed, without elaborating.The incident is at least the second Ukraine-bound Leopard 2 to suffer casualties. Last week, an informed source told Sputnik that Russian forces sank a captured Ukrainian Leopard 2 in a swamp in the Kherson area after it proved impossible to bring it back to Russian lines.Poland serves as the primary land route through which tens of billions of dollars in Western military hardware is sent to Ukraine. Warsaw has delivered over 300 of its legacy Soviet-era T-72M and PT-91 Twardy tanks to Kiev over the past year, and committed 14 of the Leopard 2A4s that it purchased from Germany in the 2000s.The Polish government has offered steadfast support for Kiev and NATOs proxy war against Russia in Ukraine. However, a substantial and growing minority of Poles has criticized government policy, fearing an escalation of the conflict, and expressing concerns over the Ukrainian governments lionization of Stepan Bandera, a Ukrainian ultranationalist and Nazi collaborator whose militias murdered hundreds of thousands of Polish civilians during the Second World War.Leopard 2s have been lauded as some of the most advanced tanks in NATOs arsenal, but have proven that theyre not invincible. They faced their first combat losses in Afghanistan and northern Syria during NATO and Turkish operations in the 2000s and 2010s, where they were damaged and/or destroyed in roadside bomb attacks, and by Russian-made portable anti-tank missiles.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230414/russian-forces-sink-leopard-2-tank-in-kherson-area-swamp-1109499897.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230401/german-defense-minister-rules-out-deliveries-of-additional-leopard-tanks-to-ukraine-1109028909.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/us-house-passes-bill-to-hold-china-accountable-for-balloon-incident-1109607933.html

US House Passes Bill to Hold China 'Accountable' for Balloon Incident

US House Passes Bill to Hold China 'Accountable' for Balloon Incident

The US House of Representatives passed a bill to hold China accountable for the transit of an alleged spy balloon over the US earlier this year.

2023-04-18T00:30+0000

2023-04-18T00:30+0000

2023-04-18T00:27+0000

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House lawmakers passed the bill, dubbed the Upholding Sovereignty of Airspace (USA) Act, on Monday in a vote of 405-6, with a two-thirds majority required for passage. The bill expresses the sense of Congress that the presence of a Chinese high-altitude balloon over the US earlier this year was an "unacceptable violation of United States sovereignty" and that Chinas broader balloon surveillance program poses a threat to countries around the world. The legislation says the bill holds China "accountable" for the alleged violation. China maintains that the balloon detected over the US was a civilian airship engaged in scientific research. The legislation calls on the Secretary of State to develop a diplomatic strategy to inform allies and partners about the alleged global surveillance balloon program. The bill also requires the Secretary of Commerce to evaluate the transfer of items related to aerospace programs, including airships and balloons, to China for the purpose of export controls. Additionally, the bill calls for the imposition of sanctions against Chinese individuals determined to be connected to its balloon program. The US is still analyzing recovered components of the airship, which was shot down over the Atlantic Ocean after crossing the continental US, allegedly to intercept intelligence from sensitive military sites.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230415/wapo-unveils-leaked-doc-claiming-four-new-alleged-chinese-spy-balloon-flights-1109546981.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/us-russia-can-come-back-together-by-cooperating-in-space---former-astronaut-1109608661.html

US, Russia Can Come Back Together by Cooperating in Space - Former Astronaut

US, Russia Can Come Back Together by Cooperating in Space - Former Astronaut

The US and Russia can improve ties by working together in space, former astronaut Frank Culbertson told Sputnik.

2023-04-18T03:07+0000

2023-04-18T03:07+0000

2023-04-18T03:04+0000

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Culbertson who has completed three space flights and logged over 146 days in space shared that he still has friends in Russia, and has very warm memories of his experience with his Russian colleagues. I'm on a committee to review the safety of the space station periodically with the Russians and General Tom Stafford. We get to communicate every once in a while which to me is very good, he said. Culbertson also expressed hope that the cooperation between the two countries on space will continue. I really wish my friends in Russia well. I have really fond memories of my crew and the people I worked with, like Sergei Krikalev, who's an amazing leader, he said. I have a lot of respect for the Russians that are in the space program who have made so many amazing achievements, accomplished so much, and I wish them well and I hope we can continue to work together. Culbertson believes that today they still do what they did 20 years ago, which is put politics aside and work on flying in space together and keeping each other safe. Culbertson, who spoke with Sputnik at the Yuris Night event held by the Space Foundation in Colorado Springs, also underscored that Russia and the US were managing to keep communications "working" despite various restrictions.When asked whether he believes this space cooperation and relationship between the two countries will be saved amid the current tensions, Culbertson stated, "We are trying to.""I think we can as long as we don't lose sight of what the real goal is," he pointed out. "Its to help help humanity continue to explore the solar system and the rest of the universe together."Russia and the US have continued to cooperate in space despite the sanctions imposed on Moscow in the light of the Ukraine conflict. Earlier in March, a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft carrying the Crew-5 mission team, including Russian cosmonaut Anna Kikina, successfully splashed down off Florida's Space Coast after spending 157 days in space. Kikina became the first Russian cosmonaut to board a US Crew Dragon spacecraft as part of the International Space Station's (ISS) integrated flights agreement signed by Russian space agency Roscosmos and NASA in July 2022.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/us-tries-to-control-energy-and-info-flow-with-nord-stream-bombing-cover-up-1109621776.html

US Tries to Control Energy and Info Flow With Nord Stream Bombing Cover-Up

US Tries to Control Energy and Info Flow With Nord Stream Bombing Cover-Up

The US and its NATO allies tried to implicate Russia in the bombing of its gas pipeline under the Baltic Sea, but now blame a group of civilian divers. Dan Lazare says Washington wants a monopoly on gas and the media.

2023-04-18T14:14+0000

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2023-04-18T14:14+0000

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Award-winning investigative journalist Seymour Hersh exposed Washington's guilt for the bombing that severed three out of four undersea pipelines on the Nord Stream 1 and 2 route from Russia to Germany.That has left German industry increasingly dependent on more expensive and lower quality liquified natural gas imports from the US.Dan Lazare told Sputnik that the US wanted a monopoly not just on gas sales but on information flow too."Once upon a time, countries used to battle over territory. But now, in an era of globalized capitalism, the big fights are for control over commodities, surrogates, energy and information," he noted. "Reality is a truth machine," he stated. "The truth always comes out eventually." The Nord Stream bombing was "an extraordinary act, a true stab in the back... it was an act of war by the US against a close ally, Germany, and a mainstay of NATO."NATO would fracture if the truth came out, the journalist argued. "The results will be explosive, more explosive than the original explosion," Lazare said. "NATO can't survive after an act like this. NATO is poised on the edge of a cliff and this is going to push it over. And when that happens, everything will change."Although alternative online media make it difficult for the establishment to mount a cover-up  with Hersh publishing his expose on his blog after big newspapers refused to run it  the mainstream press is still taking the line of "don't talk about Nord Stream." "It's like a corpse at a family gathering," the author said, pointing out that Hersh's erstwhile employer the New York Times had quoted a Danish naval expert who questioned whether anyone wanted to know the culprit's identity.One diplomat said it's better not to know. And three or four four days later, The New York Times printed a similar article quoting a Danish naval expert saying, Is there any interest from the authorities to come out and say who did this?For more cutting-edge analysis, check out the latest episode of Sputnik's podcast The Critical Hour.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230412/seymour-hersh-nord-stream-sabotage-led-to-total-breakdown-between-white-house-intel-community-1109392166.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/what-is-arcturus-covid-19-variant-detected-in-22-countries-so-far-1109632843.html

What is 'Arcturus' COVID-19 Variant Detected in 22 Countries So Far?

What is 'Arcturus' COVID-19 Variant Detected in 22 Countries So Far?

Although it has emerged as a distinct subvariant of Omicron, Arcturus doesnt seem to be too different from its parent virus.

2023-04-18T17:20+0000

2023-04-18T17:20+0000

2023-04-18T17:20+0000

sputnik explains

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The World Health Organization (WHO) has designated the new coronavirus subvariant XBB.1.16 as a variant under monitoring, but so far isnt sounding the alarms. Because of its mouthful of a name, the subvariant is better known as Arcturus, following a semi-official subvariant naming scheme derived from mythological characters that the WHO has not yet adopted.Outside of COVID-19 virology, Arcturus is a red giant star found in the constellation Bootes, and the fourth-brightest star in the night sky as seen from Earth. Its name in Ancient Greek means Guardian of the Bear. The subvariant was first detected in January.More Infectious, No More DeadlyAlthough it has emerged as a distinct subvariant of Omicron, a WHO-named COVID-19 variant that was first detected in late 2021 and has been the dominant variant globally for nearly 16 months, Arcturus doesnt seem to be too different from its parent virus.We havent seen a change in severity in individuals or in populations, but thats why we have these systems in place. It has one additional mutation in the spike protein, which, in lab studies, shows increased infectivity as well as potential increased pathogenicity, she added.In other words, its a bit more infectious than Omicron, but not by much, and the symptoms dont seem to be any worse than Omicron. Work by Japanese doctors suggests it might be 1.2 times more infectious than Omicron. There hasnt been a detected increase in deaths related to Arcturus, either.New SymptomsIn addition to the classic flu-like symptoms of COVID-19, such as coughing, fever, chills, and loss of sense of taste, doctors have identified some new symptoms unique to the Arcturus subvariant.Where Has Arcturus Been Found?Arcturus is blamed for a large outbreak currently underway in India, where officials have tracked at least 50,000 new cases per day in recent weeks. However, the subvariant has been detected in 22 countries, with small numbers of cases found in the United Kingdom and United States recently.The variant tracker at the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows small numbers of cases being detected in over a dozen US states, but none increasing very rapidly. In the UK, just 50 cases have been spotted so far.Theres no evidence that this is any more severe - and probably its somewhat less severe than previous strains - but its too early to be certain. And thats almost certainly because of immunity, Hunter explained. It will probably become the dominant variant for a while in the U.S. and Europe and most countries around the world, but I dont see it driving up severe infections more than weve seen in recent waves.He added that there is evidence that past COVID-19 infection, as well as multivalent SARS-CoV-2 vaccination, are both having an effect on immunity, although the variant could still circulate for years to come.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230411/biden-signs-bill-ending-us-covid-19-national-emergency---white-house-1109336084.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230323/unprecedented-greed-sanders-slams-moderna-after-company-confirms-130-price-for-covid-jab-1108735429.html

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A 20-year-old woman who arrived at the wrong address was shot dead in New York

Gillis was in a car with three other persons seeking a friend's house

The homeowner was charged with second-degree murder

Authorities said Monday that a woman seeking a friend's house in upstate New York was shot to death after the car she was traveling in went to the wrong location and was met with gunfire in the driveway.

Kaylin Gillis, 20, was driving with three other individuals through the remote hamlet of Hebron on Saturday night when they made a mistake turning into the property.

NY Woman Driven to Wrong Address was Fatally Shot

According to Washington County Sheriff Jeffrey Murphy, they attempted to turn the car around when the homeowner, Kevin Monahan, 65, walked out onto his porch and fired two rounds. Gillis was struck by one round. The group traveled to Salem, northeast of Albany, near the Vermont state line, and dialed 911, according to Murphy, who emphasized that the incident occurred in a region with poor mobile phone coverage.

According to Fox News, emergency personnel arrived and attempted CPR on Gillis but could not rescue her. Murphy added that when cops arrived at Monahan's residence to investigate the shooting, he refused to come out.

According to the sheriff, authorities spoke with him for almost an hour through a 911 dispatcher and in person before taking him to jail. Monahan was arrested and put into the Warren County prison on a second-degree murder accusation. It wasn't apparent if he had a counsel who could speak for him.

Murphy stated at a press conference on Monday that Gillis, who lived in Schuylerville, "was an innocent young lady who was out with friends seeking another friend's residence." "There is no cause for Monahan to feel intimidated," he added.

Per CBS News, authorities believe that Monahan is a worker who has resided in Hebron for "quite some time." He has not provided any information to detectives regarding why he allegedly began shooting. Murphy stated, "There was definitely no threat from anyone in the vehicle. Monahan had no reason to feel endangered."

Gillis is a native of Schuylerville, New York. Murphy claimed to come from a decent family. "By all appearances, she was an innocent young girl out with pals," he added.

Read Also: Italy Police Seize $400 Million Cocaine Floating in Sicily Sea

Incident Comes Following Similar Incident in Missouri

Per ABC News, the killing occurred just days after 16-year-old Ralph Yarl was shot and wounded after traveling to the incorrect residence to pick up his younger brothers in Kansas City, Missouri.

The 85-year-old white man who shot the child twice at his front door was charged with an armed assault on Monday, according to a local prosecutor. Yarl, who was released from the hospital on Sunday and is currently recovering at home, was initially in a critical state.

The shooting comes on the heels of the deadly shooting of a New Mexico homeowner after police arrived at the incorrect location for a domestic violence complaint, as per USA Today. Unidentified Farmington Police officers are shown on body camera footage shooting Robert Dotson, 52 after he opened the door with a pistol. The incident is being investigated, and all three cops have been placed on paid administrative leave.

Related Article: Jayland Walker Death: Grand Jury Declines To Indict Ohio Cops in 'Grievous' Killing

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20230418/wsj-reporter-gershkovich-charged-with-espionage-pleads-not-guilty-1109621323.html

Moscow Court Upholds Decision to Place WSJ Reporter in Detention

Moscow Court Upholds Decision to Place WSJ Reporter in Detention

Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who is accused of espionage, does not consider himself guilty and is ready to prove it in court

2023-04-18T12:07+0000

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2023-04-18T13:42+0000

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arrest

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"The decision of the Lefortovo District Court of Moscow to be left unchanged, the appeal [of Gershkovich's defense team] - not satisfied," the judge said.US Ambassador in Russia Lynne Tracy said that Washington expected Moscow to grant a continuous consular access to Gershkovich and called for his immediate release.Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich does not consider himself guilty and is ready to prove it in court, his lawyer Tatyana Nozhkina told Sputnik on Tuesday."He has a fighting spirit, he does not plead guilty and is ready to prove it," the lawyer said. Earlier in the day, the Moscow City Court ruled that placing Gershkovich in pretrial detention center for two months was lawful.On March 30, the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) said that it had detained Gershkovich in Yekaterinburg on suspicion of conducting acts of espionage for the United States. The FSB said Gershkovich collected classified information regarding the activities of one of the firms of Russia's military-industrial complex.The Lefortovo District Court of Moscow ruled that the reporter be put in pre-trial detention until May 29.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230412/moscow-in-contact-with-us-embassy-on-wsj-reporter-gershkovich-1109379886.html

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Miami Valley Raceway introduces a new $100,000 FFA By Invitation, to be called the Pacey The Wizard Mindlin Memorial to be contested on closing weekend, May 5-6. Owners or trainers of horses that would like to be considered are asked to contact race secretary Gregg Keidel at 513-934-7336.

Mr. Mindlin, who passed away last month at age 81, was a racing fan his entire life. A prominent owner, pedigree expert and ultimately Miami Valleys on-air handicapper, Mindlin was recently described this way: No one loved horse racing more than Pacey, and no one loved Ohio harness racing more than Pacey.

The $100,000 race is tentatively scheduled for Saturday, May 6, sharing the spotlight with the first legs of all four Ohio Sires Stakes divisions for three-year-old pacers and trotters. Only in the event 14 or more Ohio Sire Stakes divisions are necessary, the race could be moved to Friday, May 5.

Let It Ride N, who won the $36,000 Open Handicap at Miami Valley for his fifth straight time over six weeks on Sunday, April 16, is the current favourite -- although a strong contingent of challengers is expected. Let It Ride N (Dan Noble) topped longshots Velocity Poprocks (Austin Hanners) and Incredible Man (Jeremy Smith), stablemates from the Steve Carter barn, in 1:50 flat. Its possible that another Mindlin Memorial candidate will emerge this week as Let It Ride N, a 10-year-old trained by Michael Hitchcock, will be required to take a week off following three straight weekly victories.

(Miami Valley Raceway)
Family-run Soldiers Hill Angus Farm of Warrenton recently won the 2023 Virginia Seedstock Producer Award from Virginia Cattlemens Association.

The award for producing premiere genetics for commercial beef cattle was presented April 13 to farm owner and operator Dennis Pearson at the associations animal meeting, part of the Virginia Beef Expo, in Rockingham.

A few miles east of Jeffersonton in Culpeper County, Soldiers Hill Angus Farm began in the early 1970s as a younger Pearsons 4H heifer project.

Our farm name is a tribute to the Civil War soldiers who battled on our land, four days prior to the Second Battle of Manassas, Pearson said.

More than 30 years since its founding, the farm today covers 500 acres and has a 200-head herd of Angus.

Beef is sold direct off the farm, according to Pearson.

Bulls and breeding females are sold in consignments sales, such as the Culpeper Bull Sale, and off the farm.

Dennis Pearson traces the origins of his award-winning cattle breeding to his time at Virginia Tech. His father, Harvey, also attended the Blacksburg state agricultural college, on the GI Bill after serving the country as a waste gunner on a B-17 in World War II, according to soldiershillangusfarm.com.

Harvey Pearson retired from a 40-year career as Fauquier County Clerk to help his son in the cattle way of life, the family recalls of the farms origins.

Dennis Pearson is retired from the USDA. The WWII veteran farmer attended the recent awards ceremony with his son and daughter-in-law, Miriam.

The attributes of being a top beef cattle producer help the world-wide consumer, Dennis Pearson stated in a release about the seedstock producer award. Their breeding objective is focused on providing balanced performance genetics to the commercial cow-calf sector, he said.

The farm uses whole-herd artificial insemination and embryo transfers to accelerate superior bloodlines, which has increased genetic advancements that benefit the cattle industry, Pearson said.

Over the last several decades beef production has increased, through a more sustainable approach to cattle production, he said.

Benefits include: higher survival rates of natural births through calving ease, lower risk of birth defects through genetic advancements and more efficiencies requiring less feed and inputs for higher beef yield, according to Pearson.

Advanced breeding genetics produce better marbling and carcass, increased quality for the consumer as well as improving functional cattle through maternal traits. These include milk production and reproductive efficiencies as well as boosted beef production through increased carcass weights, the Fauquier County farmer said.

Soldiers Hill Angus Farm has concentrated on registered Angus since 1990 and has evolved into a leading performance Angus herd, he said. SimAngus genetics have recently been added to provide more options.

Since 1990, Soldiers Hill Angus Farm has consigned to the Virginia Beef Cattle Improvement Association Central Test Stations at Culpeper and Wytheville for bull development and marketing.

Over the past 30 plus years, they have developed a following for their genetics by building a strong reputation through being known as a source of predictable performance genetics, Pearson said.
A solar farm project that has been years in the works is once again back on the local government agenda in Madison County.

An application was submitted in 2021 by James and Jean Beall and Springbrook Farm LLC representative Tina Weaver to rezone 91.89 acres beside Yoders Country Market to M1, limited industrial. The property is currently split zoned agriculture A1 and general business B1.

The rezoning is necessary to accommodate the countys zoning ordinance which requires solar projects be located on M1 zoned property. The application also requested a special use permit to construct a solar project on the property. That application went to a public hearing, but was tabled by the applicants and ultimately pulled from consideration.

Months later, the applicants appeared back before the planning commission with a representative from Louth Callan Renewables, a solar development, engineering, procurement, construction, operations and maintenance firm headquartered in Suffield, CT. The company currently has nine projects under lease in Virginia.

LCR submitted a draft site plan to Madison County for the project with rezoning and SUP hearings anticipated in early November. However, the actual application for the rezoning and SUP was never submitted and again the project was off the table. Now, its back.

In February, LCR submitted an application for the rezoning and SUP on the 91.89 acre property owned by James Beallviahis LLC, SBF Madison VA and Weaver via Springbrook Farm at Madison LLC. Not much has changed from the original application.

The project aims to generate 30,761 megawatts per year and would tie into the Rappahannock Electric Cooperative grid at the Pratts substation. Solar panels would cover 59 acres with 32 acres dedicated to open space and two acres covered by impervious surface. The project would have a landscape buffer in accordance with the countys ordinance requirements and feature native plant species for pollinators.

LCR CEO Nick Sylvestre said the plan is to partner with the Virginia State Beekeepers Association and local bee farmers to host hives on-site to support local honey businesses. He said hed also like to use sheep to manage vegetation.

We try to be thoughtful in the landscape plan to protect the scenery, he said. Were making sure its not an eyesore. We use local plants, flowers and trees.

Sylvestre said the project is low impact construction, with much less impact than a housing project. The solar facility is slated to take about 15 months to construct from start to finish and Sylvester said LCR works with local labor to provide an economic stimulus.

If done the right way, these projects make the area look phenomenal, he said.

LCR would sign a 25-year contract with REC and look to extend that by 10 years for a total of 35 years of operation. County planner Ligon Webb is working on creating a forecast to show what the project would mean in terms of county revenue. Solar projects can be taxed via machinery and tools or submit to a revenue sharing plan of up to $1,400permegawatt hour annually.

Webb said LCR has said it would pay real estate tax as well as half of the usual machinery and tools tax. Instead of revenue sharing, Webb said an annual capital payment of $100,000 has been proposed for the life of the project. He estimated that would be more valuable than the revenue sharing option.

Adjacent landowner Allan Nichols again voiced his opposition for the project. He said the proposal lacks substance and contains all hedging statements with no firm commitments to anything being proposed.

Its absurd to believe sheep grazing and tree buffers will increase the beautification of the route 29 corridor, Nichols said.

Its not an issue of Not In My Backyard, he said.

These products are terrible for communities like ours, Nichols said. The most recent iteration is the worst one seen yet.

He said if businesses were to go on the site, as suggested in the comprehensive plan, he would be a great neighbor.

Making this an industrial site is [inappropriate],he said.

Planning commissioners will discuss the project at a work session at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 19 at 414 N. Main St. in Madison. The application is expected to be included in a May 3 public hearing.
Last week, I had the opportunity to travel home to Nebraska and visit with many of you in the state. Its always a delight to be back home interacting with fellow Nebraskans, and Im thankful I was able to participate in some great events.

On Tuesday, I visited The Grocery Kart in Broken Bow, a member of the Nebraska Grocery Industry Association. It was great to explore the store and hear from its owners about their business and their concerns. Small businesses like The Grocery Kart source a number of their products locally  including Nebraska honey, popcorn, and even salad dressing. I am impressed by the work of the grocery industry in Nebraska and how well it provides for the needs of people across our state, especially in rural communities. We spoke about issues spanning from meat labeling to national security, and I appreciated hearing their questions and thoughts.

Later in the week, I had the privilege of visiting Plattsmouth High School, where I received a tour of the Career Technical Education building from a few exceptional students. This facility offers students phenomenal educational opportunities and is very unique in Nebraska. I love hearing from young Nebraskans eager to think about the issues and create change for the better in our state and our country. Visiting with our young leaders fills me with hope for the future.

While in Plattsmouth, I attended a business and community roundtable with Mayor Paul Lambert. I heard updates from the communitys business and industry leaders about their challenges and opportunities. Plattsmouth is a hub of thriving small businesses and a close-knit community. I was thankful for the opportunity listen to and meet with some of its residents.

Another exciting event I attended was the grand opening of Graepel North Americas expanded campus. Graepel is an innovative manufacturing company that focuses on perforated sheet metal products. Those products boost industries from trucking to agriculture, helping our economy grow. I shared my thanks with Graepel for the good work it does for Nebraska, America, and the world by providing vital jobs and well-made products. I am proud that Omaha continues to host Graepel and its expansion in North America.

I also spoke at the State Capitol in Lincoln on Friday. I previously voted to pass the bipartisan infrastructure bill, which supported the creation of a state-level infrastructure grant distributed by the U.S. Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration. The Natural Gas Distribution Infrastructure Safety and Modernization Grant will help the two grant recipients, the Metropolitan Utilities District and the Village of Stuart, update their aging gas distribution pipes so they are safe and up to date. At the grant presentation, I talked about my history advocating for modernized infrastructure, from my time in the Nebraska Unicameral to my current role in the U.S. Senate. I look forward to seeing the benefits of these infrastructure investments.

This weekend, I was also honored to speak at a Nebraska Army National Guard sendoff ceremony in Lincoln. The brave young men and women of the 2nd Battalion, 134th Infantry Regiment (Airborne) are departing on the units first overseas deployment to the Horn of Africa. I was able to thank them for their dedication and service to our nation, protecting our freedoms and way of life. I am inspired by the fortitude of the soldiers and the commitment and sacrifice of their families as they prepare for this yearlong deployment.

I am grateful to have spent time back home in Nebraska this week as I gear up for more legislative work in Washington. As I write, work, and vote, I always keep my conversations with Nebraskans in mind, and I am proud to serve the great state of Nebraska.

Thank you for participating in the democratic process. I look forward to visiting with you again next week.
Members of the Nebraska State Board of Education apologized to the state's teacher of the year for what she called "false statements" leveled at her by their colleague Kirk Penner.

Renee Jones, a Lincoln High School English teacher, told the board Friday that her tenure as the 2023 Nebraska Teacher of the Year has not been without "obstacles," referring indirectly to tweets from Penner critical of Jones.

"But I'm really excited to be here today to talk about all of the great and wonderful things I've gotten to do in spite of a lot of really mean and false statements," Jones told the board during its Friday meeting at the Graduate hotel.

Penner, the board's vice president, has gone after Jones for attending a drag queen story hour session in March 2022 at SXSW EDU, an international education conference, and promising to buy "inclusive children's books." Jones later clarified that she bought the books for her own children.

"I will not apologize for seeking to understand experiences outside of my own. @KirkPenner," Jones tweeted this year on March 24. "My job as a public educator is to serve, understand and support all kids. That is what I will proudly keep doing as an educator."

Jones later tweeted that someone asked her if her family was safe, adding that Penner "is teaching Nebraskans that is it okay to bully, harass and spread lies about people who do not share the same opinion as you."

After Jones gave her quarterly report Friday, board members Patsy Koch-Johns and Deborah Neary both stood up for Jones, offering apologies without directly naming Penner.

"I would like to tell you that, 'Once a Link, always a Link,' and my heart is with you and I am sorry that you have had to face so many obstacles along the way," said Koch-Johns, a former Lincoln High teacher who was also a Nebraska teacher of the year.

Neary said Jones is an "amazing representative" of the state and "a voice for all teachers" in Nebraska.

"You mentioned obstacles and I just want to be on the record stating that I am very sorry that your reputation was attacked repeatedly, that your personal safety is a concern for you and your family and that your family members are hurt because of the attacks on you," Neary told Jones, who was joined by her husband at Friday's meeting.

Penner did not engage with Jones after her report, later telling the Journal Star during a brief recess that "I've said what I've said.

"She said her piece and I don't really have any reaction," he said. "That's kind of where it stands. Besides that, I'm moving forward."

Jones told the Journal Star she was grateful for the opportunity to use her voice to highlight positive things she's done as the state's teacher of the year and not "hyperbolic, false" statements.

"It's really nice to just hear (Neary's and Koch-John's) support," she said. "It's very humbling to have people that do so much work for their kids in Nebraska to cheer me on and just say like, 'Keep doing the work that you're doing.'"

Jones said her students have seen what's circulating on social media, although she said they "weren't shaken by the messages because they are the ones in my classroom, they know the books on my shelves and see my character in our interactions."

Jones added that she "didnt engage in conversations with my students about the situation, but just told them that I wont discuss specifics with them."

Penner first criticized Jones for wanting to buy inclusive children's books on Oct. 20, the day Nebraska Department of Education officials surprised Jones by naming her the teacher of the year. A day later, he quoted another Twitter post of a video of drag queens at the SXSW conference.

"What in the world is going on! There is NO REASON this should be part of any education conference and should NEVER be hyped by the 'teacher of the year'!" he posted.

Penner referred to the conference again in a post in January, criticizing the use of "taxpayer money 2 attend professional development encouraging childrens (sic) books of men dressed as women."

Jones later said in a tweet that she attended the conference on her own time and money.

Then on March 24, Penner posted a screenshot on Twitter showing that Jones had liked tweets from Jane Kleeb, Nebraska Democratic Party chairwoman who'd tweeted that she'd trust "a drag queen" with her kids over Penner.

Penner tweeted that "we are battling for our kids and this crap needs to stop."

Jones responded by saying Penner was spreading an "inaccurate and harmful" narrative.

"You have this amazing platform where you could be focusing on teacher retention and compensation, yet this is what you spend your energy on?"

State board bylaw states that members "have the responsibility to make it clear when they are speaking or writing on their own behalf that they are not representing the board," but doesn't mention social media posts.

Board President Patti Gubbels previously told the Omaha World-Herald that Penner's tweets don't represent the State Board of Education.

Top Journal Star photos for April 2023
Last summer, Imperial farmer Dirk Haarberg made the hard decision to let some of his milo crop die. The heat and the wind had proven too much, Haarberg said, and he needed to save water for his other cornfields.

Haarbergs water pumps also ran nonstop, he said during an interview, drawing more water than usual from the Ogallala Aquifer to feed the thirsty crops he was keeping alive.

We dont overwater, but when it was as dry as it was last summer, theres not much you can do but just water 24 hours a day, said Haarberg.

Decades of irrigating in a relatively dry area has taken a toll on the groundwater in southwest Nebraska. In Chase County, where Haarberg lives, water levels have fallen as much as 100 feet since the 1950s, before the advent of high-density irrigation, according to a newly released University of Nebraska-Lincoln groundwater monitoring report.

The Ogallala Aquifer is healthy and even thriving in many parts of Nebraska. The state is maintaining much higher groundwater volume than many states to the south, according to UNL water experts and decades-long mapping from the U.S. Geological Survey. Between 1950 and 2017, available water in storage in Nebraskas part of the aquifer overall decreased by merely 0.34%, markedly better than the aquifers 36% decline in Texas, according to a Flatwater Free Press analysis of USGS reports.

Over the long term, were not in bad shape, said Aaron Young, a survey geologist at UNL and chief author of the report.

But some small pockets of the aquifer in Nebraska have been losing water at far greater paces than the rest of the state  a slow-but-steady disappearance of water that more closely resembles the troubling situation in much larger swaths of western Kansas and Texas. The decline, mostly located in four counties  Dundy, Chase and Perkins counties in southwest Nebraska and Box Butte County in northwest Nebraska  has prompted natural resources districts in those areas to closely monitor and regulate water usage for years.

Despite this work, experts say that consistently falling water levels may transform irrigation farming in these areas in the future.

In those areas, whether its wet or dry, we kind of see a decline of about a foot per year, sustained over the long term, said Young.

Nebraska isnt grappling with wholesale water shortages like other states for a crucial reason: The Ogallala Aquifer is much thicker here. In fact, the state is home to 70% of the total water contained in the aquifer.

Nebraskas groundwater levels tend to fluctuate with precipitation. The amount of rainfall affects how much water can replenish the aquifer, and how much water farmers need to pump for irrigation. In southwest Nebraska, where precipitation is much less than in the eastern part of the state, producers have tapped into groundwater to feed their crops.

Had we had six more inches of rain, wed have pumped six less inches of water, said Haarberg.

A big part of Upper Republican NRD in southwest Nebraska is at a net deficit in terms of groundwater reserve because of high-density irrigation and slow natural charge, said Virginia McGuire, a hydrologist with the U.S. Geological Survey. This decrease in aquifer thickness, sometimes with more than 50% of water storage in an area disappearing, McGuire said, is less than in western Kansas and Texas, but still significant.

Once you pump it out, you just have very little coming back in, said McGuire. Even though you slow on your pumping because you got a lot of rain, that doesnt really help you that much in the grand scheme of things.

Leaders in the Upper Republican NRD decided to cap water usage at 20 inches per year in the late 1970s  making it among the first entities in the country to set annual water allocations. Before that, area farmers used to pump up to three feet of water from the aquifer per acre.

Folks in our district  saw the writing on the wall that we were going to struggle with decline issues unless we have the ability to regulate water, said the NRDs assistant manager Nate Jenkins.

The NRD has since reduced the allocation several times.

With these restrictions, the district has suffered about 60% less water decline than expected, Jenkins said.

Other NRD leaders also said local regulations have helped stabilize water levels in their parts of Nebraska.

If you look at other states, they havent even started doing anything  like Texas and western Kansas  they didnt have any regulatory system set up, said Dean Edson, executive director of the association of the Nebraska Association of Resources Districts.

Last year, Haarberg was blowing past his allocation on all his irrigation wells  about 13 inches on average per year. He had to take advantage of past years leftover amounts or dip into his carryforward account.

Farmers may not always be able to achieve maximum potential yield on their cornfields even while using their entire annual allocation, Jenkins said.

Still, responding to dipping groundwater levels, the Upper Republican NRD board last week voted to again reduce irrigation water allocations, this time to 62.5 inches in a five-year timeframe.

With the current groundwater reserve and how fast water is consumed, the water in the district will last for a few hundred years, so its not an immediate concern, Jenkins said.

The concern is long term, slowing and eventually stopping groundwater declines so that theres always water to irrigate with, Jenkins said.

About 20% of irrigated acres in the state are subject to restrictions on the amount of water pumped. At different points in time, many NRDs in northern, southern and western Nebraska have also used their authority to pause certain kinds of new well drilling.

In the Panhandle, areas near Box Butte County and Hay Springs also experienced faster groundwater storage decline. These two areas are scattered with irrigation wells, said Lynn Webster, assistant manager at the Upper Niobrara White NRD, as opposed to large swaths of northwest Nebraska that are primarily used for ranchland.

This steady decline in water storage has consequences. In Box Butte County, a handful of residents have had to drill their wells deeper because of the water level drop, Webster said. He also said that area farmers will probably have to make due with stricter water restrictions in the future.

Over the long term, rainfall in his district seems cyclic, with wet years and dry years alternating, Webster said. A prolonged drought would have a more significant impact on groundwater levels, he said.

Even in parts of Nebraska where there arent water restrictions, some farmers have reduced water voluntarily, Edson said. There are programs aimed at preserving water, such as retiring irrigated acres and other aquifer augmentation projects.

Haarberg, the Imperial farmer, leaves his non-irrigated land fallow every three years to preserve moisture in the soil and uses equipment to prevent runoff.

We have done things for 30 years to try and protect our water and protect our ground so that we have more available water, he said.

The farmer would prefer that the local NRD not lower his water allocation, but he said he also understands the need to preserve the areas groundwater.

This seems to be the direction in which his local NRD board and NRDs across the state are heading.

Were taking actions. If you look at their allocation over time, it has dramatically decreased, Edson said. If we need to continue doing that, well continue to do that.
The two Black state Representatives from Tennessee  lets call them the Tennessee Duo  who were kicked out of the state Legislature earlier this month for breaking rules of order (while protesting in the chamber during a debate on gun legislation) brought back memories.

Protesting wrongs is truly what Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and other civil rights leaders did in the 1960s. But, they would have not protested the elimination of ropes and the cutting down of trees to stop the lynching of Black folks by the Ku Klux Klan. They knew that it was due to the hate in the hearts of those bad people. The rope nor the trees were to blame.

Today with the senseless, often random, taking of lives via gun violence, removing any style of gun would not solve the problem. There are 400 million guns in America. Deranged individuals on suicide missions crying for help are severely mentally ill. Last century we built prisons and hired more officers to help address crime. Today we need more individual interventions, counseling, greater awareness, and an increase in mental health professionals.

The Tennessee legislatures actions were wrong and excessive. Congress back in the 1960s attempted to throw out Rep. Adam Clayton Powell, D-NY, for breaking House rules  and briefly they did. The case went to the Supreme Court. The court ruled that Congress could not remove a member of its body. Only the voters of that persons district could do that. Thus, Powell returned to Congress, but was stripped of his seniority.

When you are voted into a bipartisan political body funded by taxpayers, that institution has no right to remove you.

Full disclosure, I was kicked out of one of the best-known congressional caucuses, the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC). My crime was voicing opinions that were different from the other members of the caucus. I was the first Black conservative in Congress and the first Republican voting member of the CBC.

Let us start at the beginning. An enlarged CBC with nearly 40 members attended a White House meeting with former President Bill Clinton. Sitting near the front of the room, I raised my hand repeatedly to pose a question to the president only to be ignored by the CBC chairman. It became an abbreviated meeting as it was a day after the Vince Foster tragedy. As the chairman was about to end the session and me not having an opportunity to speak, I interrupted the meeting by standing up. I directed my question to the president over the boisterous objection of the chairman. In the corner of my eye, I could see security in the room getting uneasy. Clinton calmed everyone with a slight raising of his arm  as if to say, it was all good.

I told the president that I was the GOP chairman of the Welfare Reform Task Force and I wanted to work with the White House on this mission. The president welcomed the comment. He referred me to a key staff person in the room.

Then I voiced my disagreement over the creation of majority-minority congressional districts. Black candidates can get elected in white districts, I said. After all, I was proof of that, having been elected in a 92% white district.

Clinton said that he would support racially gerrymandered districts in an effort to get more Blacks elected to Congress.

After we returned to the Capitol a hastily prepared emergency meeting of the CBC was arranged in which the singular item on the agenda was a discussion and vote to kick me out of the caucus, which they did. I was the only vote in opposition.

The record shows that welfare reform, complete with the establishment of the Debit Card I introduced for recipients, was successful and was a major achievement of the Clinton administration  even though nearly every member of the CBC opposed it.

The record also shows that the growth of the CBC over the years has not come from members who represent minority districts, but instead  I was proven correct  nearly all its growth has come from Black members of Congress who represent majority-white districts.

The CBC has been proven wrong on both counts.

Due to the negative press toward the CBC, I was quickly allowed back into the caucus, though not really welcomed. The same was quickly true for the Tennessee Duo and for the same reasons.

I would like to remind the Tennessee Duo what Dr. King was fighting for during his last days on earth  jobs! The employment practices of companies today is what the 21st-century fight for civil rights should focus on.

The lack of good paying jobs contributes to the white-Black wealth gap. It is the reason for segregated communities and school systems, and heavily contributes to the high crime rates in our cities.

Either taking a persons job away or denying a person a job is like taking a persons life, as quoted in the Bible (Sirach, Chapter 34, verses 25+26). We should work to save or improve the lives of those in the Black community by encouraging the government to enforce employment laws. The federal EEOC has literally been defunded from its 1983 levels.

We trust that employers are treating African Americans fairly, but as former President Ronald Reagan once said about the Russians  trust but verify.

Young men, pick your battles. Ropes, guns, cars and trees do not kill people. People do. Civil rights leaders of the 1960s understood this basic fact. On the other hand, fighting for the verification of fair employment practices from employers receiving government money would be a worthwhile fight.
Police raided the residence of the suspect who threw a smoke bomb during Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's campaign

Ryuji Kimura has a history of suing the government

PM Kishida vows to tight security at G7 summit

Police have raided the house of a man accused of tossing an explosive near Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, as the leader promised to guarantee utmost security for world leaders attending the G7 conference in Japan next month.

On Saturday, Kishida was campaigning for the governing party's by-election candidate in the western Japanese port city of Wakayama when a tiny explosive device was hurled his way.

PM Fumio Kishida Bomb Attack

The incident happened nine months after former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was shot at a political event by a man using a handmade gun in an assassination that shook Japan and spurred questions about whether enough protection was in place. Investigators looking into Saturday's attack raided the residence of the accused suspect, Ryuji Kimura, 24, in Kawanishi, Hyogo Prefecture, early Sunday morning, according to police.

Police verified the discovery of two cylinder pipes at the blast site; one detonated and the other unused. Per CNN, the guy was also arrested with some form of substance, tools, a computer, a mobile phone, and a tablet. In addition, they confiscated more than ten cardboard boxes suspected to hold pertinent materials in an operation that finished just after 9 a.m. local time, according to national broadcaster NHK.

The man was detained on the spot on "suspicion of forcible obstruction of business" and transported to the Wakayama West Police Station for questioning. In Japan, "forcible obstruction of business" is a felony, meaning " obstructing another person's business by force." It is punished by up to three years in prison and a fine of 500,000 yen (about $3,735).

While Kishida was uninjured, the incident brought up memories of Abe's assassination during a campaign rally in the western city of Nara. Abe's death shocked a country not usually connected with political or gun violence. According to the Yomiuri newspaper on Tuesday, the suspect reportedly has a history of suing the government, saying he was wrongfully prohibited from participating in the Upper House election.

Kimura contended that the election legislation breaches the Constitution, which, among other things, mandates equality under the law. According to the Yomiuri article, the court denied the petition in which the 24-year-old suspect requested 100,000 yen in damages for mental agony.

Kimura filed an appeal with the Osaka High Court against the finding, and a decision was set for May of this year. He has yet to be charged, as per Reuters.

Read Also: New York Woman Driven to Wrong Address Shot Dead by Homeowner

PM Kishida Ensures Security for Upcoming G7 Summit

The incident has raised serious concerns about the status of VIP security less than a year after a former prime minister was assassinated and only weeks before Japan welcomes G7 leaders. According to four experts questioned by Reuters, the incident reveals flaws in Japan's security apparatus as well as a failure to implement adjustments following the assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

However, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced he would tighten security at G7 meetings in his nation. Next month, according to Politico, Japan will host the leaders of the Group of Seven most industrialized nations for a summit in Hiroshima.

After fleeing the smoke bomb incident unharmed, Kishida said, "Japan as a whole must strive to provide maximum security during the dates of the summit and other gatherings of dignitaries from around the world."

G7 foreign ministers will convene in Karuizawa, Japan, on Sunday for a three-day summit to tackle China's hostility against Taiwan, Russia's conflict in Ukraine, and North Korea's missile tests. Meanwhile, G7 climate ministers are wrapping up a two-day conference in Sapporo.

Related Article: Shinzo Abe Murder Update: Killer Gets Officially Charged

@YouTube

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Bring your expired, unwanted or unused medication to the Walgreens Pharmacy on Davie Avenue on Saturday.

On April 22, the Statesville Police Department will be participating in the Drug Enforcement Administrations National Prescription Drug Take Back Day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Statesville police said in a news release.

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day offers free and anonymous disposal of unneeded medications at more than 4,000 local drop-off locations nationwide, the Statesville police said.

The Statesville Police Department will be at Walgreens Pharmacy located at 951 Davie Ave. in Statesville for the event.

Most collection sites do not accept illicit drugs, syringes or sharps, such as lancets and needles.

However, the Statesville police will accept sharps and syringes. Liquid products, such as cough syrup, should remain sealed in their original container with the cap tightly sealed to prevent leakage, the Statesville police said.

For more than a decade, the event has helped Americans easily rid their homes of unneeded medications that too often become a gateway to addiction. In partnership with local law enforcement, National Prescription Drug Take Back Day has removed more than 8,300 tons of medication from circulation since its inception, the Statesville police said.

Other disposals sites can be found at DEATakeBack.com.
The Lebanese government plans to forcibly return 15,000 refugees to Syria each month, Orient Net reports.

A Lebanese human rights organization has reported that dozens of Syrian refugees have been deported by authorities and handed over to Assad militias after being arrested in security raids.

According to the Wusl Center for Human Rights, which covers refugee news in Lebanon, the Lebanese army forcibly deported 64 Syrian refugees in two separate incidents. The deportations were carried out following arbitrary security raids in various locations in Lebanon, without consideration for the legal and political situation of refugees in their country.

29 Syrian refugees were deported in a collective operation by the Lebanese army on April 10 and 11, after a security raid on their places of residence in the Haret al-Sakhr complex in the Jounieh area. The detainees were then transferred through the al-Masnaa border crossing to an area that crosses the Syrian-Lebanese border.

In another incident, the Lebanese army carried out mass forcible transfers of 35 Syrian refugees in the Wadi Khaled area in northern Lebanon. The refugees were arrested during security raids on their accommodation in the town of Mazraa in Kfardebian. The detainees were then transferred to the Sarba military barracks in Jounieh and then to the Shadra checkpoint in Akkar, where they were handed over to the Fourth Division of the Assad militia.

These deportations are a violation of the rights of Syrian refugees and raise concerns about the safety and well-being of those deported. The authorities should respect the rights of refugees and provide them with the necessary legal protections.

Their fate is still unknown

The centers statement highlights that during the raids, the refugees were subjected to ill-treatment, despite some of them being sick and children. It was emphasized that all refugees were registered with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and had legally entered the country, although they did not have legal residence status.

The statement further notes that the fate of the deportees in Syria remains unknown at the time of its release, suggesting that the Assad militia is still holding them.

There is growing concern that these actions are part of the Lebanese governments plan to forcibly return 15,000 refugees to Syria each month, despite widespread condemnation from human rights organizations.

This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. The Syrian Observer has not verified the content of this story. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author.
Syria believes Bin Farhan's visit to Syria is part of the kingdom's desire to achieve a political solution to the Syrian crisis, according to al-Modon.

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad welcomed Saudi Arabias Foreign Minister, Faisal bin Farhan, who arrived in Damascus on Tuesday, marking the first visit by a high-ranking Saudi official since diplomatic relations were severed in 2011 due to the outbreak of the Syrian revolution.

Bin Farhan landed at Damascus International Airport and was greeted by Mansour Azzam, the Minister of Presidential Affairs. According to the local newspaper Al-Watan, the Saudi foreign minister is on a working visit that will last several hours.

The Saudi Foreign Ministry stated that Bin Farhans visit to Syria is part of the kingdoms desire to achieve a political solution to the Syrian crisis that would bring an end to all its consequences, safeguard Syrias unity, security, and stability, preserve its Arab identity, and reintegrate it into its Arab environment in a way that benefits its people.

This visit comes a few days after Saudi Arabia welcomed Syrian Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad for the first such visit in 12 years. During the meeting, both sides expressed their willingness to resume consular services and flights between the two countries.

Mekdads visit preceded a meeting of foreign ministers from the GCC, Jordan, Egypt, and Iraq in Jeddah to discuss the possibility of the Syrian regimes return to the Arab League.

However, the consultative meeting did not result in a decision to reintegrate the Syrian regime into the Arab League due to objections from Arab nations, primarily Qatar, Kuwait, and Morocco, as well as Western opposition to normalizing relations with President Bashar al-Assad.

This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. The Syrian Observer has not verified the content of this story. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author.
Kuwait expressed concern about regional and international interventions in Syrian affairs, according to Shaam Network.

The Kuwaiti Ministry of Foreign Affairs has refuted reports that the countrys Foreign Minister, Sheikh Salem Abdullah al-Jaber al-Sabah, is scheduled to visit the Assad regime in Damascus next Thursday. In a statement, the ministry emphasized that the reports published by local newspapers and agencies regarding the ministers visit were untrue. The ministry also stressed the importance of accurate reporting to avoid rumours and misinformation and urged people to rely on official and reliable sources of information.

This follows the publication by the Kuwaiti newspaper, al-Qabas, of an article claiming that Sheikh Salem al-Abdullah would be visiting Damascus next Thursday as part of the ongoing process of normalizing Arab relations, which began months ago. The article also mentioned that the Saudi Foreign Minister is due to visit Damascus on Tuesday  the first visit of its kind in years. However, the newspaper later deleted the article from its website and social media accounts without providing any reasons.

According to the newspaper, a government source confirmed to al-Qabas that Sabah would visit Damascus next Thursday in light of recent conciliatory developments in the region and Arab openness towards restoring relations with Syria. The foreign minister recently reiterated Kuwaits principled stance of preserving Syrias unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity following the Gulf-Arab meeting held in Jeddah last Friday.

Sabah considers Syria an important Arab country and a key pillar of the Arab national security system. He acknowledged Syrias contributions throughout history in enriching human civilization and stressed the importance of the Syrian people as brotherly people. At the informal consultations session hosted by Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan in Jeddah on Monday, Sabah reiterated Kuwaits principled position of preserving Syrias unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity while rejecting any interference in its internal affairs.

Sabah highlighted the ongoing Syrian crisis, which has entered its thirteenth year, causing security, political, economic, and humanitarian repercussions for Syria, its neighbouring countries, and the region. He expressed concern about regional and international interventions in Syrian affairs, destabilizing regional security and stability and providing fertile ground for terrorist and extremist groups and drug trafficking.

This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. The Syrian Observer has not verified the content of this story. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author.
Jaafari said the two nations have shared interests and they do not wish to see their relations deteriorate, according to Baladi News.

The ambassador of the Assad regime to Moscow, Bashar al-Jaafari, expressed on Tuesday that Damascus is willing to establish positive relations with Ankara.

During a press interview held in Moscow, Jaafari stated that Damascus aims to cultivate favourable ties with Ankara as the two neighbouring countries share common interests. He emphasized that Turkey is a neighbouring country and it is in their interest to maintain good relations. He further mentioned that the two nations have shared interests and they do not wish to see their relations deteriorate.

Regarding the prospect of normalization, Jaafari mentioned that Damascus is open to reconciliation.

Turkey is looking forward to organizing a meeting at the foreign ministry level with Damascus, with the participation of Iran and Russia, as part of efforts to normalize relations between the two countries, which have been strained for 12 years due to conflict and estrangement.

On Tuesday morning, the Saudi Foreign Minister, Faisal bin Farhan, arrived in Damascus for his first visit in 11 years.

According to Kuwaits al-Qabas newspaper, the Foreign Minister of Kuwait, Salem al-Abdullah, is scheduled to visit Damascus next Thursday.

This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. The Syrian Observer has not verified the content of this story. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.

Relief assistance arrived on Tuesday in Damascus, as a donation to the Syrian Arab Red Crescent (SARC) aims to help people affected by the Feb.6 earthquake, North Press reported.

A Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) delegation and a cargo plane arrived in Damascus, Syrias capital.

The cargo contains 30,000 units of baby milk, 234 family tents and three surgical kits. This is the second MSF donation to Syria since the earthquake and aims to help quake-affected people in areas where the MSF does not currently have teams.

A few days after the earthquake hit Syria and Turkey, in addition to our emergency operations in northwest Syria, we offered our support to relief efforts in areas where we do not have teams, said Ahmad Abdurrahman, MSF director of operations.

As an independent and impartial medical organization, we remain committed to providing humanitarian and medical assistance to the people in Syria, wherever access is granted, and the humanitarian principles are respected to ensure that aid reaches the people who need it most, he added.

The MSF said in a report that since the earthquake, they have scaled up their response in the quake-affected areas in Syria.

At dawn on Feb. 6, a 7.8-magnitude earthquake hit different areas in Syria killing more than 7,000 Syrians, including 2,153 Children and 1,524 Women.

Saudi foreign minister meets Syrias Assad in Damascus

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has met with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud in the most significant step yet towards ending Syrias decade-long regional isolation.

Prince Faisal landed in Damascus on Tuesday, Syrian state media reported, a week after his Syrian counterpart visited Saudi Arabia.

The visit is the first by a Saudi official to Syrias capital since the start of the countrys civil war in 2011.

The Saudi foreign ministry said in an online statement that the visit showed the kingdoms desire to find a political solution to Syrias conflict that would preserve the countrys Arab identity, and return it to its Arab surroundings.

SANA reports that Assad discussed with bin Farhan bilateral ties and other political international and regional files.

The Saudi minister conveyed to President al-Assad the greeting of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz. Crown Prince, Prime Minister along with their wishes for further security, stability and progress.

Assad, in turn, sent his greetings to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, His Highness the Crown Prince and the brotherly Saudi people, stressing that the brotherhood that unites the Arabs remains the deepest of the bonds binding the Arab countries and that the sound relations between Syria and the Kingdom are the natural state that should be, and these relations do not only constitute an interest for the two countries but also reflect an Arab and regional interest.

President Assad attached great importance to the role of brotherly Arabs for several reasons, among which supporting the Syrian people, liberating all the Syrian territories, stabilizing the situation, and overcoming the consequences of the war on Syria.

Assad considered changing dynamics in the world entail the cooperation among Arab countries in this phase to invest in such changes for the interest of people in all Arab countries.

The Saudi minister voiced his countrys confidence in the ability of Syria and its people to overcome all the war impacts and to achieve sustainable development, stressing that the Kingdom stands by Syria and supports it to preserve its territorial integrity and restore stability and security, along with creating an environment conducive to the return of refugees and displaced persons.

The upcoming stage necessitates the return of sound relations between Syria and the Arab States, in addition to the Arab and regional role of Syria to be better than before, bin Farhan noted.

FBI Builds War Crimes Case Against Top Syrian Officials

For five years, the US Department of Justice has been quietly investigating the brutal killing of American aid worker Layla Shweikani in Syria, according to insiders, The New York Times exclusively reported.

Now the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is building a case against top Syrian officials thought to be behind the detention, torture and execution of Shweikani, which human rights groups and politicians have called a war crime.

The FBI has been collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses across the Middle East and Europe. The officials in question are Jamil Hassan, former head of the Air Force Intelligence Directorate when Shweikani disappeared, and Ali Mamlouk, the former head of Syrias National Security Bureau intelligence service. The men may not be apprehended, but a conviction would mark the first time top Syrian officials had been charged with the human rights abuses that President Bashar al-Assad denies using.

As well as prompting questions about the low profile of Shweikanis case in comparison with that of other Americans captured abroad, including Austin Tice, a journalist covering the war in Syria who was abducted in 2012, and Jason Rezaian, a Washington Post correspondent who was imprisoned in Iran in 2016, the investigation has sparked interest in how the US deals with al-Assad.

The Syrian leader, who has been accused of overseeing a ruthless system of detention and torture, has attracted the attention of some Arab countries and criticism from human rights groups. A possible indictment of Syrian officials would make it clear that the US will not do business with him or his regime, according to former Ambassador James F Jeffrey, the Trump administrations special representative for Syria engagement.

Syria, Tunisia reestablish diplomatic relations

Syrias chief diplomat is on a three-day official visit to Tunisia meant to restore diplomatic relations that have been cut off since 2012 during the civil war that followed President Bashar Assads brutal crackdown on mass protests against his rule, AP reported.

Syrian Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad had a meeting with Tunisian counterpart Nabil Ammar shortly after his arrival on Monday evening. No details were disclosed about the talks and Mekdads schedule for Tuesday or Wednesday.

The visit is meant to help restore bilateral relations, the Tunisian Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.

The move is a glaring example of how things have changed in the region over the past decade: Tunisia was the birthplace of the Arab Spring pro-democracy movements that spread as far as Syria in 2011 and was long among Assads strongest critics. But today, Tunisias leadership is swinging back toward authoritarianism and is allying anew with Assads Syria.

Earlier this month, Tunisian President Kais Saied ordered the appointment of an ambassador to the Syrian capital, Damascus. It followed the decision of the Syrian government to reopen its embassy in Tunis and appoint an ambassador.

In February, Saied announced his decision to raise the level of Tunisian diplomatic representation in Damascus, while stressing that the crisis facing Assads government was an internal matter that concerns only the Syrian people. The move was made at the same time Tunisia was sending urgent humanitarian aid to Syria following the earthquake that killed tens of thousands in the country and neighbouring Turkey.

Mekdads visit to Tunisia is the second leg of a trip that began in Algeria, one of the few Arab countries that maintained diplomatic relations during Syrias civil war.

It comes as influential Tunisian Islamist leader Rached Ghannouchi was detained after a police search, according to his lawyer, in a move denounced by his supporters as a stepped-up effort by the president to quash Tunisias opposition. Ghannouchi, head of the Ennahdha party, is the most prominent critic of Saied.
The Kelso School District could receive nearly $100,000 after settling with an e-cigarette company that faced lawsuits from thousands of school districts across the country for allegedly marketing its products to teenagers.

The lawsuit against Washington, D.C.-based Juul Labs Inc. stems from claims by both government agencies and school leaders that the company purposely and deceptively advertised its products to teenagers, despite the state setting the legal age for using vaping and tobacco products at 21 and older.

The total amount is still tentative, district spokesperson Michele Nerland said by email, but the district is likely to net, after cost and fees, between $93,000 and $101,000 from the settlement with Juul Labs.

The district expects half the funds to be paid this year, Nerland said, with the rest paid over the next four years.

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In June, Kelso Superintendent Mary Beth Tack won school board approval to join 1,600 school districts in the case against Juul. Other area school districts set to receive settlement money include Vancouver Public Schools, Woodland Public Schools and Camas School District.

The school board approved the settlement during its March 20 meeting. Nerland said these will be unrestricted funds the district can use for the general area of student and staff well-being. The school board will likely decide how to use these new dollars during its budget talks this spring and summer.

Juul Labs has paid millions of dollars in settlements, and as of March was still embroiled in more than 4,000 lawsuits across the country. Washington state last year was awarded $22.5 million after a lawsuit filed by State Attorney General Bob Ferguson; Oregon received roughly $20 million in its own settlement.

The company settled its largest case so far last week, The Associated Press reported, agreeing to pay $462 million to six states and the District of Columbia. Juul also agreed to change its marketing tactics and limit how many purchases customers can make online and in retail stores.
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 unit dual quaternion for describing the pose of a rigid body. Credit: NIMTE

Differential geometry has been employed in previous studies to depict the finite and instantaneous motions of rigid bodies. The product of exponential (POE) formula based on differential geometry has been developed to describe the kinematics of articulated robots. This model can efficiently avoid model singularities and improve the robustness of parameter identification, compared with traditional methods based on Denavit-Hartenberg conventions.

However, the homogeneous transformation matrix (HTM) is still employed in such models to describe the pose of a rigid body, which results in deficiencies such as excessive entries within data structure and large computation intensity. In addition, the repeated data dispatch and concatenation are required when invoking HTMs in computers, further slowing the process speed. Therefore, it is imperative to adopt new data structures to improve the calibration and programming efficiency of robots when executing a long sequence of trajectories.

In a study published in IEEE Transactions on Industrial Informatics, a kinematic calibration method with unit dual quaternion (UDQ) as the basic data structure was proposed by scientists from the Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering (NIMTE) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS).

The UDQ was employed to describe the pose of a rigid body, which significantly reduces the number of entries compared with the method based on the 4x4 HTM. The explicit exponential and logarithm mappings, as well as the adjoint operation for UDQs were defined, so that the mapping between finite and instantaneous motions and the propagation of kinematic errors over an articulated robot were revealed with the POE formula.

Through analysis and quantitative evaluation, it was demonstrated that the UDQ-based model can effectively reduce the number of arithmetic operations in the calibration process compared with the traditional ones based on the HTM. Moreover, since it is vector-based data structure, UDQ can avoid the data dispatch and concatenation during the execution of the program, thus improving the efficiency in the error compensation process.

For different kinds of articulated robots, the proposed method can save computation time ranging from 25% to 30% in the error compensation process, which plays a crucial role in efficient and accurate programming of robots.

More information: Jingbo Luo et al, Efficient Kinematic Calibration for Articulated Robot Based on Unit Dual Quaternion, IEEE Transactions on Industrial Informatics (2023). DOI: 10.1109/TII.2023.3254666
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:

A sign at Twitter headquarters is shown in San Francisco, on Dec. 8, 2022. Swedens public radio said Tuesday April 18, 2023 that it would stop being active on Twitter, but it did not blame new labels that Elon Musks social media platform has slapped on public broadcasters and led major North American outlets to quit tweeting.Credit: AP Photo/Jeff Chiu, File

Sweden's public radio said Tuesday that it would stop being active on Twitter, but it did not blame new labels that Elon Musk 's social media platform has slapped on public broadcasters, leading some major North American outlets to quit tweeting.

Sveriges Radio said on its blog that Twitter has lost its relevance to Swedish audiences. National Public Radio and Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, meanwhile, have pointed to Twitter's new policy of labeling them as government-funded instititutions, saying it undermines their credibility.

"For a long time, Sveriges Radio has de-prioritized its presence on Twitter and has now made the decision to completely stop being active on the platform, at the same time that we are shutting down a number of accounts," said Christian Gillinger, head of the broadcaster's social media activities.

He cited a recent study showing only some 7% of Swedes are on Twitter daily and said the platform "has simply changed over the years and become less important for us."

"The audience has simply chosen other places to be. And therefore Sveriges Radio now chooses to deactivate or delete the last remaining accounts," Gillinger said.

The broadcaster's news service, SR Ekot, which has been labeled "publicly funded media," will remain on Twitter but has been marked inactive.

Sveriges Radio, which has been active on Twitter since 2009, also noted the "recent turbulence" around Twitter's operations and said it was worrying that the social media platform has reduced its workforce "dramatically."

"We believe that it may in the long run affect the company's capacity to handle, for example, fake accounts, bots and disinformation but also hate messages and threats," Gillinger said.

The labels for public broadcasters have unleashed a new battle between reporters and Musk, who has long expressed disdain for professional journalists and said he wants to elevate the views and expertise of the "average citizen."

Canada's CBC said Monday that it would pause its activities on Twitter after it was labeled as "government-funded" because it "undermines the accuracy and professionalism" of its journalists' work "to allow our independence to be falsely described in this way."

U.S. broadcasters NPR and Public Broadcasting Service made similar decisions earlier this month for related reasons.

 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Researchers in China have brought machine intelligence to spaceflight, in which an AI was let to control the camera of a satellite for an entire day, as the South China Morning Post reported.

(Photo: by STR/AFP via Getty Images)

A model of China's Tiangong space station is seen at the Apsara Conference, a cloud computing and artificial intelligence (AI) conference, in Hangzhou, China's eastern Zhejiang province, on October 19, 2021.

The AI took control while the satellite captured photos of different locations on Earth.

The Qimingxing 1 Satellite

The Qimingxing 1 satellite operated with a ground-based AI system to help researchers determine how AI can help streamline the satellite's Earth observation workflow via enhanced selectivity of various locations on the planet.

During the test, the AI chose areas on the surface to survey and capture images. However, the team was unclear why the AI chose those locations.

One of the areas that the satellite targeted was Patna, a city in India along the Ganger River. It turns out the area is home to an Indian army regiment that once clashed with the Chinese military in 2020.

Another location was Osaka in southern Japan, which is also an area that usually hosts US Navy vessels operating in the Pacific.

Also read: China Reveals New Stealth Anti-Satellite Weapon; Hypersonic Glide Vehicle Technology Rattles the US

Targeting Military-Related Spots?

It's possible the AI was trained to find military-related targets. This can be leveraged for surveillance purposes. It could alert select users, such as the military, national security administration, and other relevant agencies if it detected unusual objects or activity.

It's common for AI to generate results or exhibit behaviors that are beyond the designers' comprehension.

Nonetheless, why Ai was interested in these targets is unknown, as the satellite is an experimental craft for use by Wuhan University students.

Equipping Satellites with AI

Equipping satellites with AI (Artificial Intelligence) has become an increasingly popular trend in the space industry. AI can help satellites to operate more efficiently, make better decisions and respond to changing conditions in real-time. With the help of AI, satellites can perform their missions with greater accuracy and reliability.

One of the key benefits of AI-enabled satellites is their ability to process large amounts of data quickly and accurately. Satellites equipped with AI can analyze this data in real-time, enabling them to make critical decisions and take appropriate actions more quickly. This is particularly important in applications such as weather forecasting, where timely and accurate data is essential.

Another advantage of AI-enabled satellites is their ability to learn and adapt to new situations. For example, if a satellite is tasked with monitoring a particular area, it can learn to identify and track changes in that area over time. This can be particularly useful in applications such as disaster response, where the ability to quickly identify changes on the ground can be crucial.

AI can also help satellites communicate with each other more effectively. By sharing data and coordinating their activities, AI-enabled satellites can work together to perform complex tasks and achieve common goals. This can be particularly useful in applications such as military surveillance, where multiple satellites may need to work together to gather intelligence and monitor potential threats.

There are, of course, challenges associated with equipping satellites with AI. One of the main challenges is ensuring that the AI is reliable and can operate safely in space. This requires extensive testing and validation to ensure that the AI can operate effectively in the harsh environment of space.

Overall, the benefits of equipping satellites with AI are clear. With the ability to process data quickly and accurately, learn and adapt to new situations, and communicate with each other effectively, AI-enabled satellites have the potential to revolutionize the space industry and make it more efficient and effective than ever before.

Related article: China ASAT Capability Shields its Space Vehicles From US Laser Weapons With New Microwave Technology

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Kansas residents may be able to see the Ring of Fire in the sky, an annular solar eclipse, as reported by Fox4. The Ring of Fire will appear on October 14, 2023.

(Photo: ROBYN BECK/AFP/GettyImages)

A "ring of fire" annular solar eclipse is seen in Kanarraville, Utah, May 20, 2012. The tiny town of Kanarraville, 40 miles north of St George and 263 miles south of Salt Lake City, marked the town's"sweet spot" location where an almost perfect annular eclipse could be seen bringing visitors and vendors to the solar eclipse viewing "party."

An annular solar eclipse takes place when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun while it is at its farthest point from Earth, according to NASA.

It is also referred to as a ring of fire, which will cross over North, Central, and South America in the fall of 2023. The ring of fire will be partially visible to Kansans.

It will look like a fire ring in the sky. However, remember that it's not safe to look at it directly without proper filters.

The Ring of Fire

The ring of fire this year will start at 10:25 am on October 14, 2023, for those in Northeast Kansas. This is when the curvature of the moon will be visible against the sun. The eclipse will be at its fullest around 11:49 am and end at 1:19 pm.

This will be the last annual solar eclipse visible from the continental US until June 21, 2039.

Also read: Ring Around the Sun Called 22-Degree Halo

A Total Solar Eclipse

Kansans are in for a treat in 2024, as there will be a total solar eclipse that will be highly visible in northeast Kansas. Those in the southeast can also see the total solar eclipse at 95 percent.

A 'Ring of Fire' eclipse, also known as an annular solar eclipse, occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, but the Moon is too far from Earth to completely block the Sun. This creates a stunning visual effect where the Sun appears as a bright ring of fire around the dark outline of the Moon.

Unlike a total solar eclipse, where the Moon completely covers the Sun and the sky goes dark, a Ring of Fire eclipse is a partial eclipse. During this event, the Sun's corona, or outer atmosphere, can still be seen shining around the Moon, creating a unique and beautiful spectacle.

Ring of Fire eclipses occur about once every 18 months, but they are only visible from a narrow path on Earth. This is because the Moon's orbit is tilted, and it only crosses the plane of Earth's orbit at two points, known as the nodes. When a Ring of Fire eclipse occurs, it is only visible from the areas of Earth that are aligned with these nodes.

The most recent Ring of Fire eclipse occurred on June 10, 2021, and was visible from parts of Canada, Greenland, and Russia. The next one will occur on December 4, 2021, and will be visible from Antarctica.

While Ring of Fire eclipses may not be as awe-inspiring as total solar eclipses, they are still unique and exciting astronomical events to witness. However, it's important to take precautions when viewing any type of solar eclipse, as looking directly at the Sun can cause permanent eye damage. Special eclipse glasses or filters should always be used to safely observe these celestial events.

Related article: Rare Hybrid Solar Eclipse Visible from Eastern North America to the Middle East on Nov. 3

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Placed inside the folder of parental rights and one of Gov. Greg Abbotts major agenda items, a school voucherlike program appeared to have a good chance of passing through the Legislature.

That was until the familiar coalition of rural and urban lawmakers against implementing programs that would give students public money to attend private schools stopped the proposal from being seriously considered in the Texas House.

What was going to be one of Abbotts greatest political victories could become an embarrassing setback.

On April 6, the House passed a budget amendment against voucherlike programs. The amendment was supported by Democrats and Republicans, particularly rural lawmakers. It signaled that such a school choice plan is still a nonstarter in the House, even as the Senate approved the proposal backed by Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick.

Voucher programs have always been defeated in Texas by a coalition of rural and urban lawmakers who fear such plans would drain resources from public school districts.

School choice proponents say a major goal has been to give students the option of escaping failing schools, which proponents have often targeted as urban areas.

This year, lawmakers supporting the Texas voucherlike plan tried to mollify rural lawmakers and voters.

The plan would create $8,000 education savings accounts, or ESAs, for families to spend on private school tuition, tutoring and books or other materials. School funding is largely tied to enrollment. So for five years, the Senates plan would give small districts, including rural areas, a financial cushion by providing $10,000 for each student who left using an ESA.

But rural residents are not buying it.

Can you blame them? They have watched over the years as their hospitals have closed, making it challenging to receive medical care. They dont want their schools in crisis, though proponents of school choice insist that wont happen.

Rural legislators in Texas are heavily influenced by public school districts that are major employers in their communities, said Republican political consultant Matthew Langston, who backs school choice. I dont think the issue has been effectively communicated with the rural guys. Theres a built-in fear. They know what youre promising, but they dont trust it.

Rural residents fear that allowing any voucherlike program would catch up with them down the line, no matter what lawmakers are promising today.

Theres no guarantee that two years from now they wont come in and mess with the funding sources, Langston said. The reality comes down to theres not been enough done to make sure that they can go back and look their local school officials in the eye and say, Were fully behind you, and this vote doesnt impact the funding sources going into the district.

Mark Owens, a University of Texas at Tyler political scientist, said Republicans typically support school choice, especially in areas where private schools are thriving. But in many rural areas, the only choice is public schools, and they bind communities.

They are often the major employer in town, Owens said.

Republican lawmakers against the school choice plan are apparently not swayed by Abbott, who has embarked on a multicity tour pushing the proposal. His road trip has included small cities and towns and focused heavily on private, Christian schools.

The results, as they stand now, show Abbott would have done better by broadening his pitch. And it reveals that his clout isnt enough to score a win on an issue that conservatives have been losing on for decades.

Lawmakers likely will pass some sort of school choice plan, perhaps one that expands a practice that allowed special needs students to get public funding for education services.

But the broader plan appears out of reach, unless Abbott and school choice proponents can turn the tide in the House.

On Sundays edition of Lone Star Politics, a television show produced by KXAS-TV and The Dallas Morning News, Texas Private Schools Association President Jay Ferguson, said the school choice movement is making progress in Texas.

He added that providing school choice is not about disenfranchising public schools.

Public schools always have the home-field advantage, he said. We dont represent an existential threat to public schools, whether rural or urban.

In a year that Abbott is trying to keep pace with presidential contenders such as Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, losing out on school choice will place a blemish on his record. This year DeSantis signed into law a Florida school choice bill.

In making his pitch, Abbott has criticized public schools for promoting woke-ism and accused some of them of sexualizing kids and teaching a radical ideology. Such culture war issues are popular with conservatives.

In response, Democrats arent sparring the rod when discussing Abbott push for school choice.

Abbott totally misread rural voters and their reps, said Matt Angle, the director of the Democratic Party research group called the Lone Star Project. They like their public schools a lot more than they like Greg Abbott. He doesnt inspire anyone, and he doesnt scare anyone.
Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (NYSE:CCEP  Get Rating) was upgraded by research analysts at StockNews.com from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report issued on Monday.

Other equities analysts also recently issued research reports about the stock. Barclays lifted their target price on shares of Coca-Cola Europacific Partners from $67.00 to $73.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Friday. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft boosted their target price on shares of Coca-Cola Europacific Partners from $63.00 to $66.00 in a report on Thursday, January 5th. Finally, Argus raised their price target on Coca-Cola Europacific Partners from $60.00 to $62.00 in a report on Thursday, March 16th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, one has given a hold rating, three have assigned a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $62.64.

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Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Stock Up 0.4 %

Shares of CCEP stock traded up $0.25 on Monday, hitting $60.13. 679,057 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 1,117,894. Coca-Cola Europacific Partners has a one year low of $41.80 and a one year high of $60.19. The firms 50 day moving average is $56.56 and its two-hundred day moving average is $53.39. The company has a quick ratio of 0.71, a current ratio of 0.89 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.42.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Coca-Cola Europacific Partners

About Coca-Cola Europacific Partners

Large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Gradient Investments LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Coca-Cola Europacific Partners by 3.5% during the 1st quarter. Gradient Investments LLC now owns 8,857 shares of the companys stock worth $524,000 after acquiring an additional 301 shares during the last quarter. Raymond James & Associates boosted its holdings in shares of Coca-Cola Europacific Partners by 10.4% in the 1st quarter. Raymond James & Associates now owns 207,675 shares of the companys stock worth $12,292,000 after purchasing an additional 19,488 shares in the last quarter. Trinity Street Asset Management LLP increased its position in shares of Coca-Cola Europacific Partners by 12.4% during the 1st quarter. Trinity Street Asset Management LLP now owns 2,224,837 shares of the companys stock valued at $131,688,000 after purchasing an additional 245,621 shares during the last quarter. Neo Ivy Capital Management raised its holdings in shares of Coca-Cola Europacific Partners by 492.2% during the 4th quarter. Neo Ivy Capital Management now owns 5,934 shares of the companys stock valued at $328,000 after buying an additional 4,932 shares in the last quarter. Finally, B. Riley Wealth Advisors Inc. bought a new stake in Coca-Cola Europacific Partners in the 4th quarter worth approximately $484,000. Institutional investors own 28.63% of the companys stock.

(Get Rating)

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners plc engages in the distribution and sale of non-alcoholic ready to drink beverages. It operates through the following geographical segments: Iberia, Germany, Great Britain, France, Belgium/Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, and Iceland. The company was founded on August 4, 2015 and is headquartered in Uxbridge, the United Kingdom.

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Core & Main, Inc. (NYSE:CNM  Get Rating) VP John Weldon Stephens sold 25,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, April 13th. The stock was sold at an average price of $25.03, for a total value of $625,750.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the vice president now owns 3,468 shares of the companys stock, valued at $86,804.04. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at this link.

Core & Main Stock Down 0.7 %

Shares of NYSE:CNM traded down $0.18 on Monday, hitting $24.52. 948,099 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 913,394. Core & Main, Inc. has a 52 week low of $18.75 and a 52 week high of $26.63. The company has a quick ratio of 1.60, a current ratio of 3.05 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.60. The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of $22.65 and a 200-day simple moving average of $21.76. The company has a market cap of $6.03 billion, a PE ratio of 11.51, a PEG ratio of 0.69 and a beta of 0.80.

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Core & Main (NYSE:CNM  Get Rating) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, April 4th. The company reported $0.31 EPS for the quarter, hitting the consensus estimate of $0.31. Core & Main had a return on equity of 20.64% and a net margin of 5.50%. The company had revenue of $1.37 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.38 billion. During the same period last year, the company earned $0.30 EPS. Core & Mains revenue for the quarter was up 10.3% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, research analysts expect that Core & Main, Inc. will post 1.91 earnings per share for the current year.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Analyst Ratings Changes

Large investors have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. National Bank of Canada FI purchased a new position in shares of Core & Main during the 3rd quarter valued at about $28,000. Nisa Investment Advisors LLC purchased a new position in shares of Core & Main during the 3rd quarter valued at about $45,000. Money Concepts Capital Corp purchased a new position in shares of Core & Main during the 4th quarter valued at about $39,000. Assetmark Inc. lifted its position in shares of Core & Main by 33.8% during the 3rd quarter. Assetmark Inc. now owns 2,158 shares of the companys stock valued at $49,000 after buying an additional 545 shares in the last quarter. Finally, MetLife Investment Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of Core & Main during the 1st quarter valued at about $58,000. 95.16% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Several brokerages recently weighed in on CNM. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft increased their target price on Core & Main from $40.00 to $42.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Monday, April 3rd. Loop Capital began coverage on Core & Main in a report on Monday, February 13th. They set a buy rating and a $28.00 target price for the company. Truist Financial increased their target price on Core & Main from $22.00 to $24.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a report on Thursday, March 30th. Robert W. Baird upped their target price on Core & Main from $29.00 to $33.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Wednesday, March 29th. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group raised their price target on Core & Main from $25.00 to $27.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Tuesday, April 4th. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $29.33.

Core & Main Company Profile

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Core & Main, Inc distributes water, wastewater, storm drainage, and fire protection products and related services to municipalities, private water companies, and professional contractors in the municipal, non-residential, and residential end markets in the United States. Its products include pipes, valves, hydrants, fittings, and other products and services; storm drainage products, such as corrugated piping systems, retention basins, inline drains, manholes, grates, geosynthetics, and other related products; fire protection products, including fire protection pipes, sprinkler heads and other devices, fire suppression systems, and related accessories, as well as fabrication services; and meter products, such as smart meter products, installation, software and other services.

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Nu Holdings Ltd. (NYSE:NU  Get Rating) was the target of some unusual options trading on Monday. Investors purchased 30,566 put options on the stock. This is an increase of approximately 81% compared to the average volume of 16,894 put options.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several brokerages have issued reports on NU. KeyCorp increased their target price on NU from $5.00 to $6.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Thursday, February 9th. The Goldman Sachs Group lowered their price objective on NU from $9.00 to $8.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, March 1st. Finally, Wolfe Research lowered their price objective on NU from $6.50 to $5.00 in a research report on Thursday, January 5th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating and five have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $7.44.

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NU Stock Performance

NU traded down $0.11 on Monday, reaching $4.55. 13,977,131 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 25,840,055. The companys 50-day moving average price is $4.70 and its 200 day moving average price is $4.40. NU has a fifty-two week low of $3.26 and a fifty-two week high of $7.48. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.12, a current ratio of 0.37 and a quick ratio of 0.37. The firm has a market capitalization of $20.98 billion, a PE ratio of -56.88 and a beta of 1.00.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On NU

NU ( NYSE:NU Get Rating ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, February 14th. The company reported $0.03 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of ($0.01) by $0.04. NU had a positive return on equity of 2.13% and a negative net margin of 7.61%. The company had revenue of $1.45 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.41 billion. As a group, sell-side analysts forecast that NU will post 0.14 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Pictet Asset Management SA increased its stake in shares of NU by 0.5% in the 3rd quarter. Pictet Asset Management SA now owns 1,228,711 shares of the companys stock valued at $5,406,000 after purchasing an additional 5,730 shares in the last quarter. Baillie Gifford & Co. increased its stake in shares of NU by 31.4% in the 4th quarter. Baillie Gifford & Co. now owns 114,648,854 shares of the companys stock valued at $466,621,000 after purchasing an additional 27,413,836 shares in the last quarter. Triumph Capital Management purchased a new position in shares of NU in the 3rd quarter valued at about $236,000. First Republic Investment Management Inc. purchased a new position in shares of NU in the 3rd quarter valued at about $169,000. Finally, Orion Portfolio Solutions LLC purchased a new position in shares of NU in the 3rd quarter valued at about $44,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 47.64% of the companys stock.

NU Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Nu Holdings Ltd. operates as a digital financial services platform and technology company primarily in Brazil, Mexico, and Colombia. It offers Nu credit and debit cards; Ultraviolet credit and debit cards; and mobile payment solutions for NuAccount customers to make and receive transfers, pay bills, and make everyday purchases through their mobile phones.

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Shares of NIPPON STL & SU/S (OTCMKTS:NSSMY  Get Rating) hit a new 52-week low during trading on Monday . The company traded as low as $7.40 and last traded at $7.42, with a volume of 12508 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at $7.49.

NIPPON STL & SU/S Trading Down 0.9 %

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.52, a current ratio of 1.22 and a quick ratio of 0.51. The businesss 50 day moving average is $7.55 and its 200 day moving average is $10.85. The stock has a market cap of $7.05 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 2.70, a P/E/G ratio of 3.94 and a beta of 1.35.

About NIPPON STL & SU/S

(Get Rating)

Nippon Steel & Sumitomo Metal Corporation engages in steelmaking and steel fabrication businesses worldwide. It operates in five segments: Steelmaking and Steel Fabrication, Engineering and Construction, Chemicals, New materials, and System Solutions. The company offers steel plates; hot- and cold-rolled steel sheets and coils, coated steel sheets, color coated steel sheets, electrolytic tin plates, and electrical steel sheets; bar and rod materials; and structural steel products.

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Seabridge Gold Inc. (TSE:SEA  Get Rating) (NYSE:SA) Director Eliseo Gonzalez-Urien sold 10,000 shares of Seabridge Gold stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, April 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of C$14.00, for a total value of C$140,000.00.

Seabridge Gold Stock Performance

SEA traded down C$0.28 during trading on Monday, hitting C$17.92. 50,303 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 57,044. The firm has a market capitalization of C$1.44 billion, a P/E ratio of -199.11 and a beta of 0.74. Seabridge Gold Inc. has a 1-year low of C$13.83 and a 1-year high of C$28.00. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of C$16.28 and a two-hundred day moving average price of C$16.53. The company has a quick ratio of 3.34, a current ratio of 2.70 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 35.81.

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Seabridge Gold Company Profile

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Seabridge Gold Inc, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the acquisition and exploration of gold properties in North America. The company also explores for copper, silver, molybdenum, and rhenium deposits. Its principal projects are the Kerr-Sulphurets-Mitchell property and Iskut project located in British Columbia, Canada; Courageous Lake property situated in Northwest Territories, Canada; Snowstorm project located in the Nevada; and 3 Aces project located in the Yukon Territory.

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Valero Energy Co. (NYSE:VLO  Get Rating) was the recipient of a significant decline in short interest in March. As of March 31st, there was short interest totalling 10,180,000 shares, a decline of 19.6% from the March 15th total of 12,660,000 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 4,270,000 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 2.4 days. Approximately 2.8% of the companys stock are sold short.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several equities research analysts have recently commented on the stock. BMO Capital Markets raised shares of Valero Energy from a market perform rating to an outperform rating and boosted their target price for the stock from $135.00 to $160.00 in a research report on Tuesday, January 17th. The Goldman Sachs Group boosted their price target on shares of Valero Energy from $111.00 to $126.00 and gave the stock a sell rating in a report on Thursday, January 19th. UBS Group started coverage on shares of Valero Energy in a report on Wednesday, March 8th. They set a buy rating and a $176.00 price target on the stock. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted their price target on shares of Valero Energy from $160.00 to $172.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Tuesday, March 28th. Finally, Tudor Pickering cut shares of Valero Energy from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Monday. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have given a hold rating, eleven have assigned a buy rating and two have issued a strong buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, Valero Energy presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $153.94.

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Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the company. GPS Wealth Strategies Group LLC bought a new position in shares of Valero Energy in the first quarter worth about $87,000. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. grew its holdings in shares of Valero Energy by 74.2% in the first quarter. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. now owns 1,061 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $135,000 after purchasing an additional 452 shares during the last quarter. Heartland Bank & Trust Co bought a new position in shares of Valero Energy in the first quarter worth about $795,000. Czech National Bank grew its holdings in shares of Valero Energy by 0.6% in the first quarter. Czech National Bank now owns 45,416 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $6,340,000 after purchasing an additional 263 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Valeo Financial Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in Valero Energy in the first quarter worth about $351,000. Institutional investors own 79.28% of the companys stock.

Valero Energy Stock Performance

Shares of VLO traded down $3.56 on Monday, reaching $128.30. The companys stock had a trading volume of 3,524,348 shares, compared to its average volume of 4,212,770. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.41, a current ratio of 1.38 and a quick ratio of 1.00. The stock has a market capitalization of $47.62 billion, a P/E ratio of 4.41, a PEG ratio of 0.88 and a beta of 1.66. The stocks 50 day simple moving average is $133.52 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $129.89. Valero Energy has a 12-month low of $96.71 and a 12-month high of $150.39.

Valero Energy (NYSE:VLO  Get Rating) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, January 26th. The oil and gas company reported $8.45 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $7.45 by $1.00. Valero Energy had a net margin of 6.54% and a return on equity of 50.15%. The business had revenue of $41.75 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $43.31 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $2.47 earnings per share. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 16.3% on a year-over-year basis. Research analysts forecast that Valero Energy will post 24.95 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Valero Energy Increases Dividend

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, March 16th. Investors of record on Tuesday, February 14th were given a $1.02 dividend. This represents a $4.08 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.18%. The ex-dividend date was Monday, February 13th. This is a boost from Valero Energys previous quarterly dividend of $0.98. Valero Energys payout ratio is currently 14.01%.

Valero Energy Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Valero Energy Corp. engages in the manufacture and marketing of transportation fuels and other petrochemical products. It operates through the following business segments: Refining, Ethanol and Renewable Diesel. The Refining segment consists of refining operations, associated marketing activities, and logistics assets that support its refining operations.

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A Russian woman who uploaded naked pictures of herself in front of a holy tree was deported from Bali on Monday.

Only days after being detained by immigration authorities, the 40-year-old woman, named Luiza Kosykh, boarded a late Sunday plane from Bali Denpasar to Moscow, according to an official with the Bali law and human rights agency, I Nengah Sukadana, according to a Jakarta Post report.

Kosykh was taken into custody on Wednesday after a picture of her naked body in front of a 700-year-old banyan tree went viral, upsetting local Hindus who hold the tree in high regard.

Disrespectful Tourists Are Not Welcome in Indonesia

On April 11, a woman named Ni Luh Djelantik, who calls herself an entrepreneur, shared the images online while criticizing the visitor.

Her Instagram post, which has been liked over 17,000 times, reads, "To all foreigner(s) who disrespect our land, Bali is our home, not yours!"

Read Also: Japanese PM Attack Update

The woman questioned if it is wise for foreigners to take multiple nude selfies in front of trees that locals consider sacred. She further implored that if tourists can't honor local traditions, they may leave Indonesia, per The Independent.

According to reports, Indonesian officials apprehended Ms. Kosykh on April 12.

She said she had no idea the tree was holy when she took the naked shot a few years ago.

Just days before, a Russian man was deported from Bali for sharing a nude photo of himself on a sacred mountain, per the Daily Tribune.

In response to various incidents of cultural disrespect, the island's resorts have pledged to take stricter measures against unruly visitors.

The immigration service has also called on local authorities to create a comprehensive tourist guide for Bali.

Related Article: Italy Police Seize $400 Million Cocaine

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StockNews.com upgraded shares of AGCO (NYSE:AGCO  Get Rating) from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a report published on Friday.

Several other brokerages also recently weighed in on AGCO. Stifel Nicolaus lifted their price target on shares of AGCO from $150.00 to $168.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, January 18th. Wells Fargo & Company boosted their target price on shares of AGCO from $165.00 to $170.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Monday, December 19th. Credit Suisse Group upped their price objective on shares of AGCO from $143.00 to $174.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, December 22nd. The Goldman Sachs Group downgraded shares of AGCO from a buy rating to a neutral rating and cut their price target for the stock from $149.00 to $135.00 in a report on Monday, April 3rd. Finally, Morgan Stanley upped their price objective on AGCO from $129.00 to $136.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research report on Wednesday, February 8th. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, six have given a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, AGCO currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $153.36.

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AGCO Stock Performance

NYSE AGCO opened at $126.76 on Friday. The companys 50 day moving average is $131.81 and its 200-day moving average is $128.88. The company has a quick ratio of 0.62, a current ratio of 1.40 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.33. The firm has a market cap of $9.49 billion, a P/E ratio of 10.68, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.88 and a beta of 1.34. AGCO has a 12-month low of $88.55 and a 12-month high of $147.00.

AGCO Dividend Announcement

AGCO ( NYSE:AGCO Get Rating ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, February 7th. The industrial products company reported $4.47 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $3.88 by $0.59. AGCO had a net margin of 7.03% and a return on equity of 25.75%. The business had revenue of $3.90 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $3.76 billion. Sell-side analysts predict that AGCO will post 13.53 earnings per share for the current year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, March 15th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, February 15th were given a $0.24 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, February 14th. This represents a $0.96 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.76%. AGCOs payout ratio is 8.09%.

Insider Activity

In related news, SVP Torsten Rudolf Willi Dehner sold 744 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Thursday, February 23rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $140.71, for a total transaction of $104,688.24. Following the sale, the senior vice president now owns 26,867 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,780,455.57. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. In related news, SVP Robert B. Crain sold 13,000 shares of AGCO stock in a transaction dated Friday, February 10th. The stock was sold at an average price of $132.67, for a total transaction of $1,724,710.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the senior vice president now owns 40,167 shares in the company, valued at $5,328,955.89. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Also, SVP Torsten Rudolf Willi Dehner sold 744 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, February 23rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $140.71, for a total transaction of $104,688.24. Following the sale, the senior vice president now owns 26,867 shares of the companys stock, valued at $3,780,455.57. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 27,142 shares of company stock valued at $3,671,940 in the last 90 days. 17.40% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Institutional Trading of AGCO

Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the stock. AE Wealth Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of AGCO during the first quarter valued at about $575,000. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. grew its stake in AGCO by 20.8% in the 1st quarter. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. now owns 5,965 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $806,000 after buying an additional 1,029 shares in the last quarter. Raymond James & Associates grew its position in shares of AGCO by 12.3% during the 1st quarter. Raymond James & Associates now owns 29,393 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $3,974,000 after purchasing an additional 3,226 shares in the last quarter. Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC grew its position in shares of AGCO by 35.8% during the 1st quarter. Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC now owns 249,986 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $33,798,000 after purchasing an additional 65,959 shares in the last quarter. Finally, SummerHaven Investment Management LLC grew its position in shares of AGCO by 1.6% during the 1st quarter. SummerHaven Investment Management LLC now owns 8,419 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $1,138,000 after purchasing an additional 130 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 75.48% of the companys stock.

AGCO Company Profile

(Get Rating)

AGCO Corp. engages in the manufacture and distribution of agricultural equipment and related replacement parts. It operates through the following geographic segments: North America, South America, Europe and Middle East, and Asia, Pacific, and Africa. The Asia/Pacific/Africa segment includes the regions of Australia and New Zealand.

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Altfest L J & Co. Inc. trimmed its holdings in iShares Global Consumer Staples ETF (NYSEARCA:KXI  Get Rating) by 17.0% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 6,471 shares of the companys stock after selling 1,322 shares during the quarter. Altfest L J & Co. Inc.s holdings in iShares Global Consumer Staples ETF were worth $386,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other large investors also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Equitable Holdings Inc. grew its stake in shares of iShares Global Consumer Staples ETF by 10.3% during the 3rd quarter. Equitable Holdings Inc. now owns 5,282 shares of the companys stock valued at $283,000 after purchasing an additional 494 shares during the period. UBS Group AG grew its stake in shares of iShares Global Consumer Staples ETF by 19.9% during the 3rd quarter. UBS Group AG now owns 144,544 shares of the companys stock valued at $7,747,000 after purchasing an additional 23,986 shares during the period. Guardian Wealth Advisors LLC bought a new stake in shares of iShares Global Consumer Staples ETF during the 3rd quarter valued at about $252,000. Connective Portfolio Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of iShares Global Consumer Staples ETF during the 4th quarter valued at about $1,312,000. Finally, Bank of Montreal Can grew its stake in shares of iShares Global Consumer Staples ETF by 14,214.9% during the 3rd quarter. Bank of Montreal Can now owns 114,519 shares of the companys stock valued at $6,517,000 after purchasing an additional 113,719 shares during the period.

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iShares Global Consumer Staples ETF Stock Up 0.5 %

iShares Global Consumer Staples ETF stock opened at $62.98 on Tuesday. The business has a 50-day simple moving average of $60.34 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $59.22. The company has a market cap of $1.57 billion, a P/E ratio of 21.43 and a beta of 0.58. iShares Global Consumer Staples ETF has a 52-week low of $52.79 and a 52-week high of $64.95.

iShares Global Consumer Staples ETF Company Profile

iShares Global Consumer Staples ETF (the Fund), formerly The iShares S&P Global Consumer Staples Index Fund, is an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The Fund seeks investment results that correspond to the price and yield performance of the S&P Global 1200 Consumer Staples Sector Index (the Index). The Index is a subset of the Standard & Poors Global 1200 Index.

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Franklin Resources, Inc. (NYSE:BEN  Get Rating) has been given an average rating of Hold by the twelve ratings firms that are currently covering the firm, MarketBeat Ratings reports. Six analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating and six have issued a hold rating on the company. The average 1 year target price among brokerages that have issued ratings on the stock in the last year is $24.82.

A number of research firms have recently commented on BEN. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft upped their price objective on shares of Franklin Resources from $27.00 to $29.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a research note on Tuesday, January 31st. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods upped their price objective on shares of Franklin Resources from $26.00 to $27.00 and gave the company an underperform rating in a research note on Tuesday, January 31st. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their price objective on shares of Franklin Resources from $26.00 to $27.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Tuesday, January 31st. Bank of America dropped their price objective on shares of Franklin Resources from $28.00 to $24.00 and set an underperform rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, April 5th. Finally, Evercore ISI dropped their price objective on shares of Franklin Resources from $27.00 to $24.00 and set an underperform rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, April 13th.

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Franklin Resources Trading Up 0.4 %

Franklin Resources stock opened at $26.85 on Tuesday. The stock has a market cap of $13.43 billion, a PE ratio of 13.70 and a beta of 1.26. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $28.40 and a 200 day moving average price of $26.96. Franklin Resources has a 52 week low of $20.24 and a 52 week high of $34.37. The company has a current ratio of 4.97, a quick ratio of 4.97 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.76.

Franklin Resources Announces Dividend

Franklin Resources ( NYSE:BEN Get Rating ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Monday, January 30th. The closed-end fund reported $0.51 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.54 by ($0.03). The company had revenue of $1.97 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.85 billion. Franklin Resources had a return on equity of 12.69% and a net margin of 12.52%. The companys revenue for the quarter was down 11.6% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business posted $1.08 EPS. Equities research analysts predict that Franklin Resources will post 2.34 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, April 14th. Shareholders of record on Friday, March 31st were issued a $0.30 dividend. This represents a $1.20 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 4.47%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, March 30th. Franklin Resourcess dividend payout ratio is presently 61.22%.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Franklin Resources news, EVP Alok Sethi sold 29,503 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, February 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $31.09, for a total value of $917,248.27. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 92,132 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,864,383.88. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. 23.40% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Franklin Resources

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of BEN. State Street Corp boosted its holdings in Franklin Resources by 7.3% in the 3rd quarter. State Street Corp now owns 34,909,926 shares of the closed-end funds stock worth $761,187,000 after acquiring an additional 2,384,798 shares during the period. Royal Bank of Canada boosted its stake in shares of Franklin Resources by 202.7% during the 1st quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 2,126,650 shares of the closed-end funds stock valued at $59,377,000 after buying an additional 1,424,044 shares during the last quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Franklin Resources by 4.3% during the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 34,072,606 shares of the closed-end funds stock valued at $951,307,000 after buying an additional 1,390,583 shares during the last quarter. Norges Bank purchased a new position in shares of Franklin Resources during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $35,423,000. Finally, Invesco Ltd. boosted its stake in shares of Franklin Resources by 30.9% during the 1st quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 5,507,038 shares of the closed-end funds stock valued at $153,758,000 after buying an additional 1,298,729 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 45.47% of the companys stock.

Franklin Resources Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Franklin Resources, Inc is a holding company, which engages in the provision of investment management and related services. The firm offers services and products under various distinct brand names, including, but not limited to, Franklin, Templeton, Legg Mason, Benefit Street Partners, Brandywine Global Investment Management, Clarion Partners, ClearBridge Investments, Fiduciary Trust International, Franklin Bissett, Franklin Mutual Series, K2, LibertyShares, Martin Currie, Royce Investment Partners and Western Asset Management Company.

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Breakwater Capital Group acquired a new position in iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF (BATS:EFG  Get Rating) in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor acquired 15,180 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,271,000.

Several other large investors also recently made changes to their positions in EFG. Concord Wealth Partners acquired a new stake in iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF during the 4th quarter valued at $29,000. Glassy Mountain Advisors Inc. acquired a new stake in iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF during the 4th quarter valued at $37,000. Advisors Preferred LLC acquired a new stake in iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF during the 3rd quarter valued at $34,000. Allworth Financial LP grew its holdings in iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF by 201.6% during the 4th quarter. Allworth Financial LP now owns 573 shares of the companys stock valued at $48,000 after purchasing an additional 383 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Tsfg LLC acquired a new position in iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF during the 4th quarter worth $54,000.

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iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF Trading Down 0.3 %

EFG stock traded down $0.27 during mid-day trading on Tuesday, hitting $95.05. 781,358 shares of the company were exchanged. The company has a market capitalization of $11.71 billion, a PE ratio of 18.69 and a beta of 0.87. iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF has a twelve month low of $67.58 and a twelve month high of $85.81. The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of $90.88 and a 200 day simple moving average of $86.01.

About iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF

iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF (the Fund), formerly iShares MSCI EAFE Growth Index Fund, is an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The Fund seeks to provide investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance, before fees and expenses, of the MSCI EAFE Growth Index (the Index). The Index is a subset of the MSCI EAFE Index and constituents of the Index include securities from Europe, Australasia (Australia and Asia), and the Far East.

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New Found Gold (NYSE:NFGC  Get Rating) and Franco-Nevada (NYSE:FNV  Get Rating) are both basic materials companies, but which is the better business? We will compare the two companies based on the strength of their valuation, dividends, profitability, institutional ownership, risk, analyst recommendations and earnings.

Volatility and Risk

New Found Gold has a beta of 1.43, meaning that its share price is 43% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Franco-Nevada has a beta of 0.71, meaning that its share price is 29% less volatile than the S&P 500.

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Profitability

This table compares New Found Gold and Franco-Nevadas net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets New Found Gold N/A -107.72% -85.38% Franco-Nevada 53.25% 11.12% 10.78%

Analyst Recommendations

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score New Found Gold 0 0 1 0 3.00 Franco-Nevada 1 2 4 0 2.43

This is a summary of recent ratings for New Found Gold and Franco-Nevada, as reported by MarketBeat.com.

New Found Gold presently has a consensus target price of $10.00, suggesting a potential upside of 92.68%. Franco-Nevada has a consensus target price of $166.43, suggesting a potential upside of 7.38%. Given New Found Golds stronger consensus rating and higher probable upside, equities analysts clearly believe New Found Gold is more favorable than Franco-Nevada.

Valuation & Earnings

This table compares New Found Gold and Franco-Nevadas gross revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio New Found Gold N/A N/A -$69.22 million ($0.41) -12.66 Franco-Nevada $1.32 billion 22.61 $700.60 million $3.65 42.46

Franco-Nevada has higher revenue and earnings than New Found Gold. New Found Gold is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Franco-Nevada, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Insider & Institutional Ownership

22.1% of New Found Gold shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 66.7% of Franco-Nevada shares are owned by institutional investors. 0.7% of Franco-Nevada shares are owned by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that large money managers, endowments and hedge funds believe a company will outperform the market over the long term.

Summary

Franco-Nevada beats New Found Gold on 10 of the 13 factors compared between the two stocks.

About New Found Gold

(Get Rating)

New Found Gold Corp., a mineral exploration company, engages in the identification, acquisition, and exploration of mineral properties in the Provinces of Newfoundland and Labrador, and Ontario. The company primarily explores for gold deposit. It holds 100% interests in the Queensway project that includes 86 mineral licenses and 6,041 claims covering an area of 151,030 hectares of land located near Gander, Newfoundland; and the Lucky Strike project comprising 11,684 hectares located in Kirkland Lake, Ontario. The company was formerly known as Palisade Resources Corp. and changed its name to New Found Gold Corp. in June 2017. New Found Gold Corp. was incorporated in 2016 and is headquartered in Vancouver, Canada.

About Franco-Nevada

(Get Rating)

Franco-Nevada Corp. engages in the management of gold-focused royalties and streams portfolio. It provides investors with gold price and exploration optionality while limiting exposure to many of the risks of operating companies. The company was founded in 1983 and is headquartered in Toronto, Canada.

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StockNews.com upgraded shares of Diebold Nixdorf (NYSE:DBD  Get Rating) from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report sent to investors on Friday morning.

Separately, Wedbush reaffirmed an outperform rating and issued a $5.00 price target on shares of Diebold Nixdorf in a research note on Friday, March 17th.

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Diebold Nixdorf Stock Up 3.8 %

DBD stock opened at $0.86 on Friday. The companys 50-day simple moving average is $2.03 and its 200-day simple moving average is $2.08. Diebold Nixdorf has a 52-week low of $0.70 and a 52-week high of $6.04. The firm has a market cap of $68.22 million, a P/E ratio of -0.12 and a beta of 2.93.

Insider Buying and Selling at Diebold Nixdorf

Diebold Nixdorf ( NYSE:DBD Get Rating ) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, February 9th. The technology company reported $0.79 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.33 by $0.46. The firm had revenue of $968.80 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $985.60 million. On average, analysts anticipate that Diebold Nixdorf will post 1.67 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

In other Diebold Nixdorf news, CEO Octavio Marquez acquired 30,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Monday, February 13th. The stock was bought at an average price of $2.28 per share, for a total transaction of $68,400.00. Following the acquisition, the chief executive officer now owns 351,286 shares in the company, valued at $800,932.08. The purchase was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. In other news, CEO Octavio Marquez purchased 30,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Monday, February 13th. The stock was acquired at an average price of $2.28 per share, for a total transaction of $68,400.00. Following the acquisition, the chief executive officer now directly owns 351,286 shares of the companys stock, valued at $800,932.08. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link. Also, Director Gary G. Greenfield purchased 17,500 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, February 14th. The shares were purchased at an average price of $2.88 per share, with a total value of $50,400.00. Following the acquisition, the director now directly owns 172,419 shares in the company, valued at $496,566.72. The disclosure for this purchase can be found here. 2.05% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Institutional Trading of Diebold Nixdorf

A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the company. Swiss National Bank increased its holdings in Diebold Nixdorf by 8.2% in the 1st quarter. Swiss National Bank now owns 176,059 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $1,185,000 after purchasing an additional 13,400 shares during the last quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased its holdings in Diebold Nixdorf by 11.4% in the 1st quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 62,934 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $423,000 after purchasing an additional 6,422 shares during the last quarter. Raymond James & Associates acquired a new stake in Diebold Nixdorf in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $103,000. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. increased its holdings in Diebold Nixdorf by 25.4% in the 1st quarter. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. now owns 44,100 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $297,000 after purchasing an additional 8,938 shares during the last quarter. Finally, MetLife Investment Management LLC increased its holdings in Diebold Nixdorf by 14.9% in the 1st quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC now owns 28,775 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $194,000 after purchasing an additional 3,730 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 74.46% of the companys stock.

About Diebold Nixdorf

(Get Rating)

Diebold Nixdorf, Inc engages in the provision of integrated software-led services, self-service delivery and security systems to financial, retail, commercial, and government markets. It offers financial self-services such as self-service support and maintenance, value-added services, self-service software, and self-service products, and security solutions including physical and electronic security.

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Duolingo (NYSE:DUOL  Get Rating) had its price objective boosted by JMP Securities from $128.00 to $155.00 in a report published on Friday morning, The Fly reports. The firm currently has an outperform rating on the stock.

DUOL has been the subject of several other reports. Barclays lifted their target price on shares of Duolingo from $99.00 to $131.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Thursday, April 13th. The Goldman Sachs Group lifted their target price on shares of Duolingo from $92.00 to $109.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Thursday, March 2nd. Piper Sandler boosted their price target on shares of Duolingo from $95.00 to $127.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, March 1st. Raymond James boosted their price target on shares of Duolingo from $109.00 to $117.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Wednesday, March 1st. Finally, Bank of America boosted their price objective on shares of Duolingo from $105.00 to $160.00 in a report on Thursday, April 6th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and five have given a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Duolingo presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $131.13.

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Duolingo Price Performance

Duolingo stock opened at $135.31 on Friday. The company has a market cap of $5.50 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -90.21 and a beta of 0.42. The firms fifty day moving average is $118.57 and its 200 day moving average is $93.43. The company has a quick ratio of 3.84, a current ratio of 3.84 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.04. Duolingo has a 52-week low of $60.50 and a 52-week high of $146.40.

Insider Activity at Duolingo

Duolingo ( NYSE:DUOL Get Rating ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, February 28th. The company reported ($0.35) EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of ($0.53) by $0.18. Duolingo had a negative net margin of 16.12% and a negative return on equity of 11.22%. The company had revenue of $103.82 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $99.88 million. During the same quarter last year, the firm posted ($0.46) EPS. The firms revenue was up 42.2% compared to the same quarter last year. Sell-side analysts forecast that Duolingo will post -0.85 EPS for the current fiscal year.

In related news, CFO Matthew Skaruppa sold 2,593 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Friday, February 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of $91.69, for a total value of $237,752.17. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer now owns 43,987 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $4,033,168.03. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. In other news, CFO Matthew Skaruppa sold 2,593 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Friday, February 17th. The stock was sold at an average price of $91.69, for a total transaction of $237,752.17. Following the completion of the sale, the chief financial officer now owns 43,987 shares in the company, valued at approximately $4,033,168.03. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, CEO Ahn Luis Von sold 153,514 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Friday, March 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $118.34, for a total value of $18,166,846.76. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last quarter, insiders sold 254,951 shares of company stock valued at $30,540,088. 22.12% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Duolingo

A number of institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the business. HBK Sorce Advisory LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Duolingo during the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $30,000. Captrust Financial Advisors raised its position in shares of Duolingo by 620.8% during the 1st quarter. Captrust Financial Advisors now owns 555 shares of the companys stock valued at $53,000 after acquiring an additional 478 shares in the last quarter. Lazard Asset Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Duolingo during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $58,000. Zurcher Kantonalbank Zurich Cantonalbank acquired a new stake in shares of Duolingo during the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $111,000. Finally, River & Mercantile Asset Management LLP acquired a new stake in shares of Duolingo during the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $167,000. 63.16% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

About Duolingo

(Get Rating)

Duolingo, Inc develops a language-learning website and mobile app in the United States and China. The company offers courses in 40 different languages, including Spanish, English, French, Japanese, German, Italian, Chinese, Portuguese, and others. It also provides a digital language proficiency assessment exam.

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Local Bounti (NYSE:LOCL  Get Rating) is one of 33 publicly-traded companies in the Agricultural production  crops industry, but how does it contrast to its rivals? We will compare Local Bounti to similar businesses based on the strength of its analyst recommendations, risk, earnings, institutional ownership, dividends, valuation and profitability.

Institutional & Insider Ownership

65.3% of Local Bounti shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 25.5% of shares of all Agricultural production  crops companies are held by institutional investors. 41.5% of Local Bounti shares are held by company insiders. Comparatively, 17.7% of shares of all Agricultural production  crops companies are held by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, hedge funds and large money managers believe a company is poised for long-term growth.

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Profitability

This table compares Local Bounti and its rivals net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Local Bounti -570.35% -95.94% -47.68% Local Bounti Competitors -339.13% -25.58% -15.99%

Risk & Volatility

Analyst Ratings

Local Bounti has a beta of 1.75, suggesting that its share price is 75% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Local Bountis rivals have a beta of -24.13, suggesting that their average share price is 2,513% less volatile than the S&P 500.

This is a breakdown of current recommendations and price targets for Local Bounti and its rivals, as reported by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Local Bounti 0 1 4 0 2.80 Local Bounti Competitors 100 171 489 23 2.56

Local Bounti currently has a consensus target price of $2.85, suggesting a potential upside of 464.36%. As a group, Agricultural production  crops companies have a potential upside of 58.99%. Given Local Bountis stronger consensus rating and higher probable upside, research analysts clearly believe Local Bounti is more favorable than its rivals.

Earnings and Valuation

This table compares Local Bounti and its rivals top-line revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Gross Revenue Net Income Price/Earnings Ratio Local Bounti $19.47 million -$111.07 million -0.39 Local Bounti Competitors $1.56 billion $20.81 million -0.18

Local Bountis rivals have higher revenue and earnings than Local Bounti. Local Bounti is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than its rivals, indicating that it is currently more affordable than other companies in its industry.

Summary

Local Bounti rivals beat Local Bounti on 7 of the 13 factors compared.

About Local Bounti

(Get Rating)

Local Bounti Corporation grows fresh greens and herbs in the United States. It produces lettuce, herbs, and loose-leaf lettuce. The company sells its products to food retailers and food service distributors. Local Bounti Corporation was founded in 2018 and is headquartered in Hamilton, Montana.

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ICL Group (NYSE:ICL  Get Rating) had its target price cut by Barclays from $9.00 to $8.00 in a research note issued to investors on Friday, The Fly reports. They currently have an equal weight rating on the basic materials companys stock.

Several other research analysts have also recently issued reports on ICL. Morgan Stanley dropped their price target on ICL Group from $8.50 to $7.50 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, April 12th. StockNews.com started coverage on ICL Group in a report on Thursday, March 16th. They issued a buy rating on the stock.

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ICL Group Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:ICL opened at $6.41 on Friday. ICL Group has a 12 month low of $6.24 and a 12 month high of $12.88. The stock has a market cap of $8.25 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 3.84, a PEG ratio of 1.35 and a beta of 1.12. The stocks 50 day moving average price is $6.99 and its 200 day moving average price is $7.73. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.40, a current ratio of 1.75 and a quick ratio of 0.93.

ICL Group Cuts Dividend

ICL Group ( NYSE:ICL Get Rating ) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, February 15th. The basic materials company reported $0.28 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.27 by $0.01. ICL Group had a return on equity of 42.79% and a net margin of 21.56%. The firm had revenue of $2.09 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.99 billion. Equities research analysts anticipate that ICL Group will post 0.89 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, March 15th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, March 1st were given a dividend of $0.104 per share. This represents a $0.42 annualized dividend and a yield of 6.49%. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, February 28th. ICL Groups payout ratio is 24.55%.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On ICL Group

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Aigen Investment Management LP purchased a new position in shares of ICL Group during the 3rd quarter valued at $83,000. Private Advisor Group LLC purchased a new position in shares of ICL Group during the 3rd quarter valued at $748,000. Signaturefd LLC grew its holdings in shares of ICL Group by 15.7% during the 3rd quarter. Signaturefd LLC now owns 31,371 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $257,000 after acquiring an additional 4,259 shares in the last quarter. Paradiem LLC grew its holdings in shares of ICL Group by 16.3% during the 4th quarter. Paradiem LLC now owns 58,797 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $430,000 after acquiring an additional 8,221 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. purchased a new position in shares of ICL Group during the 3rd quarter valued at $313,000. 14.13% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

About ICL Group

(Get Rating)

ICL Group Ltd. engages in the manufacture of mineral-based products for the agriculture, food, and engineered materials markets. Its products include potash and phosphate fertilizers, specialty fertilizers, functional ingredients, flame retardants and magnesia products. The company was founded in 1968 and is headquartered in Tel Aviv, Israel.

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Leeward Investments LLC MA lessened its holdings in Centene Co. (NYSE:CNC  Get Rating) by 29.7% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 184,175 shares of the companys stock after selling 77,809 shares during the period. Leeward Investments LLC MAs holdings in Centene were worth $15,104,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD lifted its position in Centene by 2.8% during the third quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 31,270,675 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,433,266,000 after acquiring an additional 855,690 shares during the last quarter. Alliancebernstein L.P. increased its stake in Centene by 5.7% during the 3rd quarter. Alliancebernstein L.P. now owns 3,399,163 shares of the companys stock valued at $264,489,000 after purchasing an additional 183,164 shares in the last quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. increased its stake in Centene by 3.5% during the 1st quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 3,226,201 shares of the companys stock valued at $271,614,000 after purchasing an additional 109,994 shares in the last quarter. Scharf Investments LLC increased its stake in Centene by 2.8% during the 3rd quarter. Scharf Investments LLC now owns 2,038,333 shares of the companys stock valued at $158,602,000 after purchasing an additional 55,992 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Fred Alger Management LLC increased its stake in Centene by 864.1% during the 3rd quarter. Fred Alger Management LLC now owns 2,017,665 shares of the companys stock valued at $156,995,000 after purchasing an additional 1,808,394 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 93.28% of the companys stock.

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Insider Buying and Selling

In other news, CEO Sarah London acquired 30,000 shares of the stock in a transaction on Friday, March 17th. The stock was bought at an average price of $62.60 per share, with a total value of $1,878,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 313,953 shares of the companys stock, valued at $19,653,457.80. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. In related news, CFO Andrew Lynn Asher purchased 3,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Thursday, February 9th. The stock was acquired at an average price of $71.89 per share, with a total value of $215,670.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer now owns 310,955 shares of the companys stock, valued at $22,354,554.95. The acquisition was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, CEO Sarah London purchased 30,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Friday, March 17th. The shares were bought at an average cost of $62.60 per share, with a total value of $1,878,000.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 313,953 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $19,653,457.80. The disclosure for this purchase can be found here. In the last quarter, insiders acquired 46,750 shares of company stock valued at $3,091,605. 0.28% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Centene Price Performance

Centene stock opened at $68.63 on Tuesday. Centene Co. has a 52 week low of $61.71 and a 52 week high of $98.53. The company has a quick ratio of 1.06, a current ratio of 1.06 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.74. The firms 50-day simple moving average is $67.64 and its 200 day simple moving average is $75.75. The firm has a market capitalization of $37.79 billion, a PE ratio of 33.68, a P/E/G ratio of 0.80 and a beta of 0.56.

Centene (NYSE:CNC  Get Rating) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, February 7th. The company reported $0.86 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.87 by ($0.01). The company had revenue of $35.56 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $35.37 billion. Centene had a return on equity of 12.98% and a net margin of 0.83%. The companys revenue was up 9.2% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company earned $1.01 earnings per share. On average, equities research analysts predict that Centene Co. will post 6.34 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of analysts have recently weighed in on CNC shares. TheStreet lowered shares of Centene from a b rating to a c+ rating in a research note on Tuesday, February 7th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft lowered shares of Centene from a buy rating to a hold rating and cut their price objective for the stock from $94.00 to $79.00 in a research note on Wednesday, March 8th. Credit Suisse Group raised their price target on shares of Centene from $104.00 to $106.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Monday, December 19th. Wells Fargo & Company dropped their price target on shares of Centene from $79.00 to $71.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research report on Tuesday, March 21st. Finally, StockNews.com raised shares of Centene from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Wednesday, March 15th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have issued a hold rating, eleven have issued a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, Centene currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $95.22.

Centene Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Centene Corp. operates as a healthcare enterprise, which engages in the provision of programs and services to government sponsored healthcare programs. It operates through the following segments: Medicaid, Medicare, Commercial, and Other. The company was founded in 1984 and is headquartered in St. Louis, MO.

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Want to see what other hedge funds are holding CNC? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Centene Co. (NYSE:CNC  Get Rating).

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29 Tanzanians win teaching skills competition organized by Tanzanian, Chinese academic institutions

Xinhua) 14:11, April 18, 2023

A student (L, Front) receives an award at an awards ceremony of teaching skills competition in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, on April 17, 2023. (Photo by Herman Emmanuel/Xinhua)

DAR ES SALAAM, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Twenty-nine out of 105 students at the Tanzanian state-run University of Dar es Salaam were on Monday given awards after winning the 1st teaching skills competition.

The competition, co-organized by the School of Education (SoED) of the University of Dar es Salaam and the Sino-Africa Joint Center for Educational Research (SA-JoCER), was aimed at enabling student teachers to showcase their skills, competencies and creativity.

Madaha Ndaki, a third-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Education, said he was glad to win in the Chinese language teaching skills category.

"My winning in this category has motivated me to be competent in teaching the Chinese language to Tanzanians after completion of my studies because the Chinese language is a key to opening doors of employment to Chinese companies operating in Tanzania," said Ndaki.

Eugenia Kafanabo, dean of SoED, said the competition targeted student teachers who are in their second and third year of study. "The teaching skills competition was aimed to raise awareness of the importance of practice and improving the teaching styles."

The competition involved 10 different subjects that were selected from secondary school syllabuses, including biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, civics, history, geography, Kiswahili, English and Chinese language subjects, Kafanabo said at the Confucius Institute Hall at the University of Dar es Salaam.

The competition might be an entry point to bring all the relevant stakeholders together as an alliance to contribute to the quality of teacher education, said Eilleen Xu, coordinator of the SA-JoCER, co-established by the University of Dar es Salaam and the Zhejiang Normal University of China.

Venance Manori, director of basic education in the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, commended the University of Dar es Salaam and the Zhejiang Normal University of China for organizing the competition, saying the competition will improve teaching skills for Tanzanian teachers.

A student (3rd L) receives an award at an awards ceremony of teaching skills competition in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, on April 17, 2023. (Photo by Herman Emmanuel/Xinhua)

Eugenia Kafanabo, dean of the School of Education of the University of Dar es Salaam, speaks at an awards ceremony of teaching skills competition in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, on April 17, 2023. (Photo by Herman Emmanuel/Xinhua)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Wu Chaolan)
Airbus has begun notifying airlines about delays in deliveries for its A320neo family of jets in 2024, according to Reuters. Hundreds of the single-aisle planes are set to be postponed as much as three months.

(Photo : by PAU BARRENA/AFP via Getty Images)

A picture taken on February 27, 2023 shows European multinational aerospace corporation Airbus logo at the Mobile World Congress (MWC), the telecom industry's biggest annual gathering, in Barcelona.

It Has Nothing to Do With Supply Chain Problems

Airbus was quick to point out that the delays have nothing to do with the supply chain problems that are getting worse. The company reaffirmed production targets for 2024 and beyond.

Airbus also said that they already communicated in December 2022 on its impact for 2023, and they are now talking about 2024 in much detail.

The delays specifically affect the larger and in-demand A321neo variant, which represents over half of Airbus deliveries. Due to to the complaints against airlines and leasing companies for short-term delay notices, this is Airbus' way of giving more advance notice.

The delays do not include schedule alterations for 2023 and remain unchanged from an initial target for 2022.

Also read: German Aerospace Industry Admits Procurement of US F-35s Exclusive to US Firms Is Inappropriate

Bottlenecks in Supply Chains

The global pandemic has disrupted manufacturing supply chains across the world, with the aerospace industry being no exception. Aerospace manufacturers such as Boeing and Airbus have been struggling with supply chain issues, causing delays in the production and delivery of aircraft parts.

The pandemic has caused a domino effect in the manufacturing industry, with factories shutting down, borders closing, and transportation networks grinding to a halt. This has resulted in a shortage of raw materials, components, and skilled labor, leading to extended lead times and production delays.

For aerospace manufacturers, the supply chain issues have been particularly challenging. The aerospace industry relies heavily on a complex network of suppliers and vendors to produce the parts and components needed to build aircraft. With the pandemic disrupting this network, manufacturers have been forced to adjust their production schedules and delivery timelines.

One of the biggest challenges facing the aerospace industry is the shortage of semiconductors, which are essential components used in aircraft avionics systems. The global shortage of semiconductors has been caused by the pandemic-induced surge in demand for electronics, coupled with disruptions in the supply chain. This shortage has forced aerospace manufacturers to prioritize which planes get the limited supply of chips, leading to delays in production and delivery.

Another challenge facing the aerospace industry is the shortage of skilled workers. With the pandemic forcing factories to shut down and many workers leaving due to safety concerns, there has been a shortage of trained personnel to operate and maintain the complex machinery used in aircraft manufacturing.

To mitigate these supply chain issues, aerospace manufacturers have been adopting new strategies such as diversifying their supplier base, increasing inventory levels, and investing in digital technologies to improve supply chain visibility and agility.

However, these strategies come at a cost, and some manufacturers have been forced to increase their prices to cover the additional expenses. This has put pressure on airlines, which are already facing financial challenges due to the pandemic-induced drop in demand for air travel.

Related article: Jetpacks Over Dubai: Jetman Duo Flies In Formation With Airbus A380 Over Dubai Skyline (VIDEO)





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Shares of Los Andes Copper Ltd. (CVE:LA  Get Rating) were up 1.3% during trading on Monday . The company traded as high as C$11.75 and last traded at C$11.50. Approximately 22,801 shares traded hands during trading, an increase of 113% from the average daily volume of 10,712 shares. The stock had previously closed at C$11.35.

Los Andes Copper Stock Up 1.3 %

The company has a market cap of C$323.73 million, a PE ratio of -33.82 and a beta of 1.16. The company has a quick ratio of 1.15, a current ratio of 1.48 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 29.70. The firms fifty day simple moving average is C$11.80 and its 200-day simple moving average is C$12.93.

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Los Andes Copper (CVE:LA  Get Rating) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, March 1st. The company reported C($0.03) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. As a group, equities research analysts expect that Los Andes Copper Ltd. will post -0.11 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

About Los Andes Copper

Los Andes Copper Ltd. acquires, explores, and develops copper deposits in Canada and Chile. It operates through three segments: Mineral Exploration, Hydroelectric Project, and Corporate. The company holds 100% interest in the Vizcachitas copper, molybdenum, and silver porphyry project located north of Santiago, Region V, Chile.

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Progressive (NYSE:PGR  Get Rating) had its price target decreased by Evercore ISI from $167.00 to $163.00 in a research report sent to investors on Friday, The Fly reports. Evercore ISI currently has an outperform rating on the insurance providers stock.

Several other research firms have also issued reports on PGR. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods boosted their target price on Progressive from $127.00 to $140.00 and gave the stock a market perform rating in a research report on Friday, February 17th. Jefferies Financial Group boosted their target price on Progressive from $159.00 to $168.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Monday, April 10th. StockNews.com lowered Progressive from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday, April 8th. Piper Sandler upgraded Progressive from an underweight rating to a neutral rating and boosted their target price for the stock from $133.00 to $138.00 in a research report on Monday, February 13th. Finally, Roth Mkm boosted their target price on Progressive from $150.00 to $165.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Thursday, February 16th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, six have issued a hold rating and nine have given a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $148.20.

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Progressive Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE:PGR opened at $138.41 on Friday. Progressive has a twelve month low of $106.35 and a twelve month high of $149.87. The firm has a market cap of $81.02 billion, a PE ratio of 98.16, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.88 and a beta of 0.50. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.41, a quick ratio of 0.37 and a current ratio of 0.37. The business has a fifty day moving average of $141.88 and a 200-day moving average of $132.97.

Progressive Dividend Announcement

Progressive ( NYSE:PGR Get Rating ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, January 25th. The insurance provider reported $1.50 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.49 by $0.01. The firm had revenue of $13.54 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $13.33 billion. Progressive had a return on equity of 14.29% and a net margin of 1.64%. On average, equities research analysts predict that Progressive will post 6.27 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, April 14th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, April 6th were paid a $0.10 dividend. This represents a $0.40 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.29%. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, April 5th. Progressives payout ratio is 28.37%.

Insider Buying and Selling at Progressive

In other Progressive news, insider Daniel P. Mascaro sold 2,806 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, March 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of $136.96, for a total value of $384,309.76. Following the sale, the insider now owns 33,276 shares in the company, valued at approximately $4,557,480.96. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. In other Progressive news, insider Daniel P. Mascaro sold 2,806 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, March 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of $136.96, for a total value of $384,309.76. Following the sale, the insider now owns 33,276 shares in the company, valued at approximately $4,557,480.96. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, insider Steven Broz sold 930 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, January 30th. The shares were sold at an average price of $135.50, for a total value of $126,015.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now owns 30,041 shares in the company, valued at approximately $4,070,555.50. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last quarter, insiders have sold 22,987 shares of company stock worth $3,250,378. Corporate insiders own 0.37% of the companys stock.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Progressive

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Kentucky Retirement Systems raised its stake in shares of Progressive by 5.5% during the 3rd quarter. Kentucky Retirement Systems now owns 45,786 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $5,321,000 after purchasing an additional 2,377 shares in the last quarter. Texas Permanent School Fund raised its stake in shares of Progressive by 7.1% during the 3rd quarter. Texas Permanent School Fund now owns 82,762 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $9,618,000 after purchasing an additional 5,508 shares in the last quarter. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Progressive by 76.8% during the 4th quarter. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. now owns 5,651 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $657,000 after acquiring an additional 2,454 shares during the last quarter. Engineers Gate Manager LP increased its holdings in shares of Progressive by 11.2% during the 3rd quarter. Engineers Gate Manager LP now owns 7,450 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $866,000 after acquiring an additional 748 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Evermay Wealth Management LLC increased its holdings in shares of Progressive by 217.1% during the 4th quarter. Evermay Wealth Management LLC now owns 371 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $48,000 after acquiring an additional 254 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 83.19% of the companys stock.

About Progressive

(Get Rating)

Progressive Corp. is an insurance holding company, which engages in the provision of personal and commercial auto insurance, residential property insurance, and other specialty property-casualty insurance and related services. It operates through the following segments: Personal Lines, Commercial Lines, and Property.

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State Street Co. (NYSE:STT  Get Rating) has been given a consensus rating of Hold by the fifteen research firms that are currently covering the stock, Marketbeat reports. Six equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation and four have given a buy recommendation to the company. The average 1-year price objective among brokers that have covered the stock in the last year is $86.81.

A number of research firms have recently commented on STT. Morgan Stanley lowered their target price on State Street from $95.00 to $91.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research report on Monday, April 3rd. Bank of America cut their price target on State Street from $84.00 to $80.00 in a research note on Monday. Evercore ISI cut their target price on State Street from $92.00 to $87.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, April 5th. The Goldman Sachs Group initiated coverage on State Street in a report on Wednesday, January 4th. They issued a neutral rating for the company. Finally, Credit Suisse Group lifted their target price on State Street from $76.00 to $84.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Monday, January 23rd.

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State Street Price Performance

STT opened at $72.68 on Tuesday. State Street has a 52-week low of $58.62 and a 52-week high of $94.74. The stock has a market capitalization of $24.45 billion, a P/E ratio of 10.11, a P/E/G ratio of 1.29 and a beta of 1.56. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.65, a quick ratio of 0.56 and a current ratio of 0.56. The companys 50-day simple moving average is $82.57 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $78.60.

State Street Announces Dividend

State Street ( NYSE:STT Get Rating ) last released its earnings results on Friday, January 20th. The asset manager reported $2.07 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.00 by $0.07. State Street had a net margin of 20.92% and a return on equity of 12.03%. The company had revenue of $3.16 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $3.06 billion. As a group, analysts predict that State Street will post 8.31 EPS for the current year.

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, April 13th. Stockholders of record on Monday, April 3rd were given a $0.63 dividend. This represents a $2.52 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.47%. The ex-dividend date was Friday, March 31st. State Streets dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 35.05%.

Insider Buying and Selling

In other State Street news, EVP David C. Phelan sold 15,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Friday, February 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of $86.63, for a total transaction of $1,299,450.00. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 72,491 shares of the companys stock, valued at $6,279,895.33. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. In related news, EVP John Plansky sold 11,168 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, February 17th. The stock was sold at an average price of $92.22, for a total transaction of $1,029,912.96. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 42,455 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,915,200.10. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. Also, EVP David C. Phelan sold 15,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, February 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of $86.63, for a total value of $1,299,450.00. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 72,491 shares in the company, valued at approximately $6,279,895.33. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last ninety days, insiders sold 32,893 shares of company stock worth $2,923,987. 0.25% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On State Street

Several large investors have recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Guardian Wealth Advisors LLC purchased a new position in shares of State Street in the 3rd quarter valued at about $27,000. FNY Investment Advisers LLC acquired a new stake in shares of State Street in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $28,000. Accurate Wealth Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of State Street in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $29,000. New Hampshire Trust purchased a new position in State Street in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $35,000. Finally, Rise Advisors LLC purchased a new position in State Street in the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $36,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 88.41% of the companys stock.

About State Street

(Get Rating)

State Street Corp. engages in the provision of financial services to institutional investors. It operates through the Commercial and Financial, and Commercial Real Estate segments. The company was founded in 1792 and is headquartered in Boston, MA.

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Tamarack Valley Energy (TSE:TVE  Get Rating) had its target price trimmed by CIBC from C$6.00 to C$5.50 in a research report released on Friday, BayStreet.CA reports.

A number of other equities analysts also recently commented on TVE. Canaccord Genuity Group reduced their price objective on Tamarack Valley Energy from C$6.00 to C$5.50 in a research report on Wednesday, March 29th. Raymond James lowered their target price on Tamarack Valley Energy from C$13.00 to C$11.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research note on Friday, March 3rd. Stifel Nicolaus decreased their price target on Tamarack Valley Energy from C$6.50 to C$6.25 in a report on Friday, March 3rd. Finally, BMO Capital Markets reduced their target price on Tamarack Valley Energy from C$6.00 to C$5.00 in a report on Monday, March 27th. One analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating, six have given a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Tamarack Valley Energy currently has an average rating of Buy and an average price target of C$6.88.

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Tamarack Valley Energy Stock Down 0.7 %

Shares of TVE stock opened at C$4.05 on Friday. The stocks 50-day simple moving average is C$4.14 and its 200-day simple moving average is C$4.46. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 55.79, a quick ratio of 0.80 and a current ratio of 0.29. The firm has a market capitalization of C$2.25 billion, a PE ratio of 5.55 and a beta of 2.78. Tamarack Valley Energy has a fifty-two week low of C$3.28 and a fifty-two week high of C$6.48.

Tamarack Valley Energy Dividend Announcement

Tamarack Valley Energy ( TSE:TVE Get Rating ) last posted its earnings results on Wednesday, March 1st. The company reported C$0.09 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of C$0.17 by C($0.08). Tamarack Valley Energy had a return on equity of 20.16% and a net margin of 29.28%. The company had revenue of C$423.76 million for the quarter. Equities analysts expect that Tamarack Valley Energy will post 0.5460614 earnings per share for the current year.

The company also recently disclosed a monthly dividend, which was paid on Friday, April 14th. Investors of record on Friday, March 31st were paid a $0.013 dividend. This represents a $0.16 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.85%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, March 30th. Tamarack Valley Energys payout ratio is currently 20.55%.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In related news, Senior Officer Scott Shimek purchased 10,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Wednesday, March 22nd. The stock was bought at an average price of C$3.86 per share, with a total value of C$38,600.00. 1.03% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

About Tamarack Valley Energy

(Get Rating)

Tamarack Valley Energy Ltd. engages in the acquisition, exploration, development, and production of oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids in the Western Canadian sedimentary basin. It primarily holds interests in Cardium light oil plays in Wilson Creek/Alder Flats/Pembina, and Garrington and Lochend areas in Alberta; Viking light oil resource plays in Redwater and Westlock in Alberta, as well as in the Consort area of southeast Alberta and Hoosier area of southwest Saskatchewan; Barons Sands light oil plays located in the Penny area of Southern Alberta; and heavy oil properties located in Hatton area of Saskatchewan.

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Shares of The Toronto-Dominion Bank (TSE:TD  Get Rating) (NYSE:TD) have been assigned a consensus rating of Buy from the sixteen analysts that are presently covering the stock, MarketBeat Ratings reports. Three analysts have rated the stock with a buy recommendation. The average 1-year price objective among brokers that have issued a report on the stock in the last year is C$99.48.

A number of analysts have commented on TD shares. BMO Capital Markets reduced their target price on Toronto-Dominion Bank from C$98.00 to C$93.00 in a report on Friday, March 3rd. Fundamental Research set a C$104.14 price objective on Toronto-Dominion Bank and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Tuesday, March 14th. Royal Bank of Canada cut their price objective on Toronto-Dominion Bank from C$113.00 to C$110.00 in a report on Monday, March 27th. National Bankshares lifted their price objective on Toronto-Dominion Bank from C$100.00 to C$102.00 in a report on Wednesday, February 22nd. Finally, CSFB cut their price objective on Toronto-Dominion Bank from C$97.00 to C$94.00 in a report on Friday, March 3rd.

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Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, Senior Officer Riaz Ahmed sold 37,832 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Monday, March 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of C$89.01, for a total value of C$3,367,426.32. 0.10% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Toronto-Dominion Bank Trading Up 0.9 %

Toronto-Dominion Bank Announces Dividend

Toronto-Dominion Bank stock opened at C$82.01 on Tuesday. The firm has a market cap of C$150.08 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 9.92, a PEG ratio of 1.06 and a beta of 0.83. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of C$85.27 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of C$87.08. Toronto-Dominion Bank has a 12 month low of C$76.40 and a 12 month high of C$97.13.

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Sunday, April 30th. Investors of record on Thursday, April 6th will be given a $0.96 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, April 5th. This represents a $3.84 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 4.68%. Toronto-Dominion Banks dividend payout ratio is currently 46.43%.

Toronto-Dominion Bank Company Profile

(Get Rating)

The Toronto-Dominion Bank, together with its subsidiaries, provides various financial products and services in Canada, the United States, and internationally. It operates through Canadian Personal and Commercial Banking, U.S. Retail, Wealth Management and Insurance, and Wholesale Banking segments. The company offers personal deposits, such as checking, savings, and investment products; financing, investment, cash management, international trade, and day-to-day banking services to businesses; and financing options to customers at point of sale for automotive and recreational vehicle purchases.

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StockNews.com upgraded shares of Vale (NYSE:VALE  Get Rating) from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report released on Friday morning.

Several other equities research analysts also recently issued reports on the company. Royal Bank of Canada downgraded Vale from an outperform rating to a sector perform rating and reduced their price objective for the stock from $16.00 to $15.00 in a research note on Monday, February 6th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. downgraded Vale from an overweight rating to a neutral rating and reduced their price objective for the stock from $20.00 to $17.50 in a research note on Thursday, February 9th. Seven investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, five have issued a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $17.68.

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Vale Trading Down 1.8 %

Shares of Vale stock opened at $15.68 on Friday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.80, a current ratio of 1.12 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.40. The firm has a market cap of $70.29 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 3.87 and a beta of 0.87. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $16.19 and a 200-day simple moving average of $15.94. Vale has a fifty-two week low of $11.72 and a fifty-two week high of $19.50.

Vale Increases Dividend

Vale ( NYSE:VALE Get Rating ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, February 16th. The basic materials company reported $0.82 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.63 by $0.19. The business had revenue of $11.94 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $11.51 billion. Vale had a return on equity of 43.41% and a net margin of 42.86%. On average, equities analysts forecast that Vale will post 3.03 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently disclosed a semi-annual dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, March 29th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, March 15th were issued a dividend of $0.3542 per share. This is a positive change from Vales previous semi-annual dividend of $0.05. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Tuesday, March 14th. This represents a dividend yield of 6.1%. Vales dividend payout ratio is currently 17.04%.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Bank of New Hampshire boosted its stake in Vale by 74.1% during the 3rd quarter. Bank of New Hampshire now owns 2,525 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $34,000 after purchasing an additional 1,075 shares during the period. Ameliora Wealth Management Ltd. bought a new stake in Vale during the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $40,000. Iron Horse Wealth Management LLC boosted its stake in Vale by 133.7% during the 4th quarter. Iron Horse Wealth Management LLC now owns 3,038 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $52,000 after purchasing an additional 1,738 shares during the period. Money Concepts Capital Corp bought a new stake in Vale during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $53,000. Finally, Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC boosted its stake in Vale by 277.3% during the 4th quarter. Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC now owns 3,773 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $64,000 after purchasing an additional 2,773 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 20.58% of the companys stock.

About Vale

(Get Rating)

Vale SA engages in the production and exportation of iron ore, pellets, manganese, and iron alloys. It operates through the following segments: Ferrous Minerals, Base Metals, and Coal. The Ferrous Minerals segment includes the production and extraction of iron ore, iron ore pellets, manganese, other ferrous products, and logistic services.

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Virginia Secretary of Labor Bryan Slater will be the keynote speaker for Ferrum Colleges 107th commencement ceremony on May 6, the college announced.

Slater, a Ferrum alumnus, has served as secretary of labor since 2022 when he was appointed by Gov. Glenn Youngkin. Before that he served as assistant secretary for administration and management at the U.S. Department of Labor and assistant secretary of administration for the U.S. Department of Transportation under President Donald Trump.

Slater received his associate degree from Ferrum College in 1982. He later earned his bachelors degree in political science from the University of Richmond.

Slater has over 20 years of political experience serving the public, nonprofit and private sectors, the announcement said.

In Virginia, Slater served as secretary of administration for Gov. Jim Gilmore. He was also director of administration for the attorney generals office when Gilmore held that office.

Slater served as the White House liaison to the U.S. Department of Labor under President George W. Bush and a congressional relations officer for the Department of Housing and Urban Development under President George H.W. Bush.

The Ferrum College commencement ceremony honoring the class of 2023 will take place at 10 a.m. May 6 in W.B. Adams Stadium on campus.
The Iranian threat actor known as MuddyWater is continuing its time-tested tradition of relying on legitimate remote administration tools to commandeer targeted systems.

While the nation-state group has previously employed ScreenConnect, RemoteUtilities, and Syncro, a new analysis from Group-IB has revealed the adversary's use of the SimpleHelp remote support software in June 2022.

MuddyWater, active since at least 2017, is assessed to be a subordinate element within Iran's Ministry of Intelligence and Security (MOIS). Some of the top targets include Turkey, Pakistan, the U.A.E., Iraq, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, the U.S., Azerbaijan, and Afghanistan.

"MuddyWater uses SimpleHelp, a legitimate remote device control and management tool, to ensure persistence on victim devices," Nikita Rostovtsev, senior threat analyst at Group-IB, said.

"SimpleHelp is not compromised and is used as intended. The threat actors found a way to download the tool from the official website and use it in their attacks."

The exact distribution method used to drop the SimpleHelp samples is currently unclear, although the group is known to send spear-phishing messages bearing malicious links from already compromised corporate mailboxes.

Group-IB's findings were corroborated by Slovak cybersecurity firm ESET earlier this January, detailing MuddyWater's attacks in Egypt and Saudi Arabia that entailed the use of SimpleHelp to deploy its Ligolo reverse tunneling tool and a credential harvester dubbed MKL64.

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The Singapore-headquartered company further said it was able to identify hitherto unknown infrastructure operated by the group as well as a PowerShell script that's capable of receiving commands from a remote server, the results of which are sent back to the server.

The disclosure comes weeks after Microsoft detailed the group's modus operandi of carrying out destructive attacks on hybrid environments under the guise of a ransomware operation.
Accusations of sexual assault against actor Armie Hammer are being investigated by the Los Angeles District Attorney's (LADA) Office, according to reports.

On Monday, April 17, Office communications director Tiffiny Blacknell told CNN they are looking into the situation. "I can confirm that the LAPD has presented a case regarding Armie Hammer to the LADA."

Sexual Assault Probe

Hammer has been under investigation for sexual assault since February 2021, when a woman accused him of raping her in 2017. The district attorney's representative would not reveal the complainant's or complainants' identity.

Hammer has denied any misconduct and has not been indicted in the matter.

When asked about the accusation, he responded via his counsel, calling it "outrageous." He claimed that his relationships with the lady and other partners were "completely consensual, discussed and agreed upon in advance, and mutually participatory."

Read Also: Kanye West Documentary: Chicago Woman Sues Netflix, Filmmakers of 'Jeen-Yuhs'

Who is Effie?

In March 2021, Gloria Allred of Los Angeles brought her client, a 24-year-old woman named Effie, who claimed that Hammer had raped her.

Effie said on Monday that what the actor did to her was traumatic. She expressed displeasure at her ex-partner's refusal to accept responsibility for his actions against her and subsequent recourse to personal attacks. Hammer has no remorse, according to her.

In the statement, Effie also emphasized that she does not believe Hammer has changed at all and that he is still causing harm.

Effie, a European resident, claimed in 2021 that she and Hammer had an intimate connection on and off from 2016 to 2020.

She was 20 years old when she first came across Hammer on Facebook and immediately fell in love with him. She said Hammer would often test her loyalty by pushing her to her limits. Effie added that as time went on, he got more aggressive.

On April 24, 2017, Effie claimed that Hammer assaulted her for more than four hours in Los Angeles. She alleged he beat her feet with a crop and did other violent things to her that she did not authorize. Effie said that she had foot pain for a week after the incident.

In Hammer's Defense

Hammer said in a February interview with Air Mail that he always had permission throughout his sexual interactions. "Every single thing was discussed beforehand. I have never thrust this on someone unexpectedly. Never," he explained.

Hammer said he had a pretty radical lifestyle, which he described in detail to Air Mail.

"I would scoop up these women, bring them into it - into this whirlwind of travel and sex and drugs and big emotions flying around - and then as soon as I was done, I'd just drop them off and move on to the next woman, leaving that woman feeling abandoned or used."

The claims of sexual assault against Hammer have resurfaced in the media with the release of the House of Hammer docuseries on Discovery+.

Read Also: 'Beef' Actor David Choe's 2014 Rape Comments Face Backlash: Why Did Twitter Remove Video?

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
One man died and four others were injured Monday afternoon in an explosion at the Green Plains Ethanol Plant in Wood River.

The Wood River Fire Department responded to the explosion just before 3 p.m. The Nebraska State Fire Marshal Agency said upon arrival, firefighters found a liquid holding tank had exploded. There was no fire.

Authorities said they are withholding the name of the deceased pending identification and notification of next of kin.

"We are deeply saddened to report that a Green Plains employee was fatally injured at our facility in Wood River, Nebraska, on April 17, 2023, during routine maintenance and repairs on a whole stillage tank," says a statement from Green Plains. "The plant was not operational at the time. We send our thoughts, prayers and condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of our employee. Another employee and three contractors on site were injured and are receiving medical treatment. We are cooperating with the authorities and will be conducting a full investigation."

The Nebraska State Fire Marshal Agency said one employee is in critical condition at an Omaha hospital. The contractors were treated and released from a Grand Island-area hospital. An autopsy is planned for the man that died.

Staff was working on the liquid holding tank at the time of the explosion, the state agency said. The cause is considered accidental, as a result of the work being done.

Green Plains is based in Omaha. According to the Green Plains website, the Wood River plant has 49 employees.
Paris, TX (75460)

Today

Rain showers in the morning with thunderstorms developing in the afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High 69F. Winds ESE at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 90%..

Tonight

Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm during the evening, then some lingering showers still possible overnight. A few storms may be severe. Low 56F. Winds ENE at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 90%. Rainfall near an inch.
CARBONDALE  Arrowleaf will host a free family movie outing featuring "The Super Mario Bros. Movie" at 1:30 p.m. on April 29 at the VIP Cinemas Carbondale 8 University Mall theater.

The movie will be preceded by a short presentation about the Recovery Oriented System of Care program of the nonprofit organization working in Southern Illinois to improve individuals and communities through economic, behavioral health, developmental services, and community collaboration.

Some may recognize Arrowleaf by another name.

"The name 'Family Counseling Center' no longer articulated the scope and impact of the work we did as an organization," said Arrowleaf Director of Prevention Services Brittney Hale, a social worker and qualified mental health professional.

Hale further explained the broadened scope of Arrowleaf. "For years, we've done more than counseling, and we served more than just families in our community. In 2020, it was time for our name and brand to reflect our growth, the people we serve, our community impact, and the full scope of our work. Arrowleaf is a nonprofit human services organization that works to build well-being for Southern Illinoisans throughout their lives so they can weather life's storms, reach their full potential, and help our communities thrive."

That social work entails three areas essential to well-being and strong communities: Behavioral Health, Developmental Services, and Community collaboration.

"Arrowleaf offers over 25 programs across these three areas which allows us to support Southern Illinoisans through a wide variety of challenges," Hale said.

The showing of the highly-anticipated animated movie starring the classic video game characters of the Mario Bros. universe is a family-friendly feature, full of fun and hopefully fire power, which is a good counterpoint to the topic of child abuse which the showing is meant to bring attention to.

"Arrowleaf has been supporting individuals and families in Southern Illinois for decades through numerous programs," Hale said. "Arrowleaf has always made it a top priority to recognize the importance of child abuse prevention, recognizing children as our future, and fighting for the safety of our youth."

Hale said that Arrowleaf has many programs, from education opportunities for the community on child abuse prevention, trauma informed practices, how to recognize the signs of child abuse to youth mental health first aid, and more, like a free showing of family-friendly movie like "The Super Mario Bros. Movie" parents and children alike can enjoy.

"Offering a free family movie night to families within Southern Illinois provides families an opportunity to have fun experience in which the family can bond and enrich their family unit," Hale said. "By offering this opportunity freely, it eliminates the financial stressor that most families experience. It is difficult for families to access fun activities without enduring financial stress. When prolonged stress is experienced by caregivers children are at higher risk of experiencing secondary trauma, abuse, and neglect."

Before the movie, Hale said families can watch a short presentation where they will learn about the numerous opportunities Arrowleaf has to help families thrive (such as ROSC), as well as learning more about Child Abuse Prevention month.

"Not only is this a fun opportunity, but also educational and resourceful," Hale said. "Our new program, Recovery Oriented System of Care (ROSC) councils are a coordinated network of community-based services and supports that is person-centered and builds on the strengths and resiliencies of individuals, families, and communities to achieve recovery and improved health, wellness, and quality of life for those with or at risk of substance use disorders."

Hale said the ROSC program is meant to create an infrastructure, or "system of care," effectively providing resources to address the full range of substance use problems within Southern Illinois communities.

Child abuse is a reality that is an issue emotionally hard to meet head on.

"During Child Abuse Prevention Month, we're mostly focused on awareness," Hale said. "We try to accomplish this by meeting families where they are at, increasing family bonding activities, and increasing access to knowledge and resources. We want young people to know that there are people ready to believe them and support them. We want adults to know that abuse is never okay."

Underscoring the importance of mandated reporters' role in child abuse prevention, Hale also related how child abuse prevention and awareness is not Arrowleaf's focus just one month out of the year.

If you or someone you know may be a victim of child abuse, there are people who care and want to help. Call the Child Abuse Hotline at 800-25-ABUSE (800-252-2873).

To catch the free screening of "The Super Mario Bros. Movie," register online at myarrowleaf.org/movie-night.
CHICAGO  Faculty at Governors State University ended a strike on Monday after being on the picket line for five days.

Governors State was one of three Illinois universities which saw a faculty strike in the past week and the last to see their strike end.

Union members at Chicago State University ended their 10-day strike on Sunday and those at Eastern Illinois University ended their six-day strike last Thursday.

This contract is a step towards strengthening our university and the support we can give our students, and it will contribute to attracting high-quality educators and retaining the excellent faculty and staff we have, GSU union president Mike Hart said in a statement on Thursday.

The universitys administration shared the optimistic tone in a separate statement.

Governors State President Cheryl F. Green said the tentative contract is an agreement that recognizes the valuable contributions of the faculty and academic support professionals to the University while at the same time recognizing the Universitys fiscal realities.

Faculty returned to classes at Governors State on Tuesday.

CSUs strike was the longest at 10 days. Union members at CSU also held a sit-in protest in which representatives of the union sat inside the offices of CSU President Zaldwaynaka Scott. A video released by the union showed a university police officer requesting them to leave.

Our members never wanted to strike, but being forced to do so has made us more unified and stronger than ever, CSU union president Valerie Goss said in a statement when the strike was suspended.

When the two sides reached a tentative agreement, the university released a statement saying the agreement accomplishes the goals of both parties and addresses a wide array of subjects, including wages, workload and parental leave.

At EIU in downstate Charleston, faculty have voted to end the strike, with a ratification vote set for April 25.

The strike ended despite the bargaining teams having some disagreement over end-of-strike terms. The unions bargaining team wanted a provision in the agreement that would have allowed professors to be paid for making up work they missed during the strike, such as grading or holding additional office hours. A union news release last week indicated this issue could delay ratification.

EIUs administration has demonstrated how they truly feel about the instruction and instructional support at EIU throughout this negotiation process, EIU union president Jennifer Stringfellow said. I have found that Im no longer surprised when Im disappointed by the administration of this institution.

The university took a more optimistic tone in a short statement issued by the universitys media relations department on behalf of the university: EIU thanks all parties for their commitment to our students and willingness to collaboratively chart a pathway forward as the University and its (union) partners work together to advance EIU's mission.

Bargaining is also ongoing between administrators and faculty at Northeastern Illinois University. The faculty union there voted to authorize a strike last week and has also requested mediation.

Faculty at University of Illinois Chicago went on strike for six days in January before the two sides reached an agreement. The union ratified the contract in early February.
Illinois lawmakers are moving ahead with legislation that would require public elementary and high schools to include Native American history in their social studies curriculum.

The measure, introduced by Rep. Maurice West-II, D-Rockford, passed the house on a vote of 75-32, with one voting present. It has been picked up by Senate sponsors Suzy Glowiak Hilton, Cristina H. Pacione-Zayas, Mike Simmons and Robert F. Martwick. It is set to be heard by the Senate Education Committee on Tuesday.

It's important for our students to understand the true history of our state, said West. But I also want to stress that this also is going to make sure we talk about the great things Native American people have done that we just don't know about.

West took up the measure after being approached by representatives from the Native American community during his involvement with legislation related to school mascots.

The measure follows up legislation passed last session that created a 22-member board dedicated to ensuring that school curriculum in the state is inclusive of all history. But the commission had a glaring exemption: It did not have any indigenous representation.

It's interesting when you read the bill that passed it includes almost every other ethnic group, nationality, social groups, religious groups, and that but no Native American representation and it passed with flying colors, (and) nobody raised the the topic and the omission of Natives, Andrew Johnson, a member of the Native American Chamber of Commerce and the Chicago American Indian Community Collaborative, told Lee Enterprises.

The way the law was written prevented a representative from the Native community from service on the commission, Johnson said. Without Native representation, the board can not ensure inclusive history.

"We just have to be honest with ourselves, with what occurred, how we grew, how we got to where we are today and, you know, to hide that history hurts all of us," Johnson said. "The more we know, the more we understand.

Illinois does not have any federally recognized tribes but has the third-largest urban indigenous population in the United States. More than 65,000 indigenous people live in the Chicago metropolitan area, with more than 150 tribal nations represented.

Emily Johnson, press secretary for the Illinois State Board of Education, wrote in a statement to Lee Enterprises that the measure would create a new unit of study, beginning with the 2024-25 school year for Native American history. It would also adjust existing mandated units of study to include Native Americans in the instruction of genocides across the globe and the role and contributions of Native Americans in the teaching of history of the United States.

ISBE will be preparing resource materials in consultation with stakeholders and post them on its website no later than January 1, 2025, Emily Johnson wrote. As a reminder, school districts have local control over curriculum. Districts use mandated units of study and resources like the ones ISBE will develop as guides to make curricular and instructional decisions locally.

Opponents of the bill argue that schools should be focusing on base curriculum such as literacy and math.

This is all about just providing accountability and trying to get rid of excessive mandates on our schools, said state Rep. Blaine Wilhour, R-Beecher City. The education system in Illinois is already doing a very poor job of teaching kids how to read and do math.

The measure is seen by some as part of a larger cultural discussion.

You know, so much of our education, curriculum and just you know, in general seems to be tilted towards more of the leftist philosophy, Wilhour said. So it's important that we provide accountability on that stuff, to make sure it's being done right.

Alex Gough, a spokesman for Gov. J.B. Pritzker, told Lee Enterprises that the governor is in support of including Native American history in school curriculum because it will help build empathy while maintaining a standard for what it means to reckon with our history.

Ongoing conversation

The measure comes as Illinois lawmakers have sought to broaden curricula and progressive policies in schools, even as some states have moved aggressively in the opposite direction.

Another recently proposed piece of legislation backed by Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias would end funding to libraries that ban books. Last session, efforts of the General Assembly included comprehensive sex education and the creation of an inclusive history board.

By contrast, lawmakers in other states, particularly those with Republican majorities, have sought legislation that would restrict how teachers are allowed to address topics such as race, gender identity and sexual orientation.

Florida's so-called Dont Say Gay legislation bars school instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity in kindergarten through third grade. A number of state legislatures are considering several measures; the Human Rights Campaign advocacy group said it is tracking more than 80 pieces of legislation described as curriculum censorship bills.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said earlier this year that he would bar public schools from participating in a pilot of the College Boards new AP course on African American Studies, denouncing the curriculum as an exercise in indoctrination.

Governor DeSantis also signed House Bill 7, which includes provisions to prevent discriminatory instruction in K-20 public schools, ensures Floridas students are not subject to Critical Race Theory indoctrination, and defines individual freedoms based on the fundamental truth that all individuals are equal before the law and have inalienable rights, said Jeremy Redfern, a spokesman for DeSantis.

So, I think what we've done in Florida has been very, very positive. Youll note that they've been able to empower parents to be more engaged in the curriculum that's being used, more engaged in identifying things that are not consistent with state standards, and then just to have more of an impact overall, DeSantis said in a press conference about recent Florida legislation.

Pritzker has taken shots at Florida for its restrictive measures and expressed support for more inclusive school instruction.

"The extremists are coming after your literature. They're coming after your libraries, they are coming after your books under the guise of, 'We're protecting somebody,'" Pritzker, a Democrat, said earlier this month. "The reality is more information is better. Obviously we all believe in age-appropriate materials, but the reality is our libraries have been able to manage this for years and years and years."

Gough, the spokesman, told Lee Enterprises that Pritzker "believes that history should be taught in a way that conveys the story of our country and state as it actually happened."

"Hes taken action to ensure history curriculums in Illinois are inclusive, comprehensive, and accurate by requiring the teaching of LGBTQ, Asian-American, and expanded African-American history," he said.

Indigenous history in Illinois

Supporters of the Native American curriculum legislation argue that current instruction on Native history is incomplete and does not address contemporary issues, or lesser-known topics such as residential schools for Native children.

The U.S. Interior Department released a first-of-its-kind report last year that named the 408 schools the federal government supported to strip Native Americans of their cultures and identities from the late 18th century to the late 1960s. Hundreds of children died while at residential schools and many of those who survived never returned home.

Illinois was home to two residential schools: one was located at Jubilee College in Brimfield and the other was St. Marys Training School for Boys located in Des Plaines.

Current school curriculum also does not address the "Voluntary Relocation Program" initiated by the federal government in the 1950s after residential schools closed.

The Bureau of Indian Affairs created a program to encourage indigenous people to relocate to urban areas in an effort to assimilate them and to dissolve their ties to their mineral-rich land.

In 1953, Congress implemented a new "termination" policy that eliminated most government support for tribes and ended the protected trust status of all Indian-owned land, according to the National Archives. Participants in the program were promised help with housing and employment if they made the move, but most were left in new metropolitan areas without help.

Before the program was implemented, only around 8% of indigenous people lived in metropolitan areas, but by the 2000 census around 64% resided in cities. Chicago was one of the primary cities for relocation efforts and still has a large population of indigenous people.

Chicago was quite a destination because of Route 66, Andrew Johnson said. And so many people came in with promises of jobs and training, education, housing, all sorts of things. And then once they got here, and got off the bus, none of those promises were kept.

Supporters of the measure also want the sovereignty and self-determination of Native tribes to be taught.

(Tribes are) classified differently, because we have the treaties, he said. We have an established relationship with the federal government and that is an understood and protective relationship there that does put us in a bit of a different category.

Johnson said he also wants the curriculum to highlight the diversity of tribal nations that ranges from languages, religions and dress.

He also said that the new curriculum would help students not just look at (indigenous culture) in the lens of what happened in the 1800s, but bring it all the way up here to the 21st century.

Editor's note: This story has been updated to include additional Senate sponsors who were not originally listed.
COLUMBIA  Scout Boats, a leading luxury boat manufacturer, on Tuesday announced plans to expand its Dorchester County operations with a new, $10 million investment.

The investment will expand and renovate the companys corporate headquarters and will facilitate the production of the new 67 LX series yacht, one of the largest outboard-powered sportfishing yachts to be built in the world.

This announcement by Scout Boats is another win for Dorchester County," said Gov. Henry McMaster. "South Carolinas boat manufacturing industry continues to thrive because of our world-class workforce. Congratulations to Scout Boats on its $10 million investment that will provide our people even more opportunities in Dorchester County.

Scout Boats, one of the top boatbuilders in South Carolina, designs and manufactures world-class, luxury models ranging currently from 17 feet to 53 feet, each packed with timeless innovations, technology and trendsetting features. The companys portfolio includes custom, state-of-the-art sportfishing center and dual consoles, and inshore and bay boat models.

Scout Boats plans to enlarge its 36-acre campus by expanding and renovating its corporate headquarters located at 130 Spaniel Lane in Summerville. Scout Boats will build a new 35,000-square-foot facility, which will allow the company to build component parts for its yacht division and support its new product line for the 67 LX series, a 67-foot model that debuted at this years Miami International Boat Show in February.

Renovations are expected to be complete by spring 2024, and operations are expected to be online by summer 2024.
Fire destroyed a vacant home on Belleville Road near Mingo Street on Monday.

The fire was reported at 8:35 a.m., according to Orangeburg Department of Public Safety Battalion Chief Jonathan Winningham.

ODPS Firehouse 2 arrived at the scene about four minutes after the call for the fire went out.

The first firefighters reported the single-story, single-family home was about 90 percent engulfed with fire and the roof was collapsing.

For the safety of firefighters, officers blocked Belleville Road from Mingo Street to St. David Street, Winningham said.

Firefighters were able to get the fire under control in about 10 minutes using a deck gun to flow a larger amount of water, Winningham said.

Firefighters searched the home and found that no one was inside.

They remained at the scene to put out hot spots until about 10:25 a.m.
The registered sex offender accused of trying to kill a state trooper and a Bamberg County deputy on Sunday will remain in jail until his case is heard in court.

Derrick Edward Gathers, 37, of Augusta, Ga. is charged with two counts of attempted murder and one count each of possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime and failure to stop for blue lights

He appeared virtually before Bamberg County Magistrate Richard Threatt on Tuesday.

Gathers appeared to wipe tears from his eyes as Threatt read his charges in court.

Those charges stem from a traffic stop initiated by the S.C. Highway Patrol and Bamberg County Sheriffs Office around 3:30 a.m. Sunday on U.S. Highway 78, on the edge of Denmark, near Best Friend Avenue.

As Lance Cpl. B.A. Frazier approached the Mazda SUV allegedly driven by Gathers, the driver presented a pistol and shot the trooper in the side of his face, according to the S.C. Law Enforcement Division.

Warrants also accuse Gathers of shooting at Bamberg County Sheriffs Deputy Dwayne Duckson.

Frazier and Duckson returned fire, with bullets striking the SUV.

Other officers pursued the SUV until it crashed into a home in Branchville. Gathers was treated by medics and transported to the hospital, where he stayed until he was booked into the Bamberg County Detention Center at 1:59 p.m. Monday.

The Bamberg County courtroom on Tuesday was filled to standing room only with law enforcement officers in support for Frazier and Duckson.

Frazier attended the hearing virtually from his hospital room where hes undergoing treatment for a gunshot wound to the right side of his face.

Capt. Q.M. Brown adjusted his electronic device so Frazier could be seen.

Im not going to ask you to say anything, Threatt said to Frazier. Let me know if you can hear me.

Frazier waved in response.

Second Circuit Deputy Solicitor David Miller told the court that Gathers has an extensive record with multiple felony convictions in New York and pending charges in Georgia.

Miller described Gathers a danger to the community.

Miller asked the court to deny setting Gathers bond.

Threatt agreed.

Gathers has an extensive record that dates back to 2005 in Broome County, New York.

On Dec. 20, 2005, he was convicted of third-degree rape and second-degree criminal sexual act there.

He is a registered sex offender. According to the Georgia Bureau of Investigations Sex Offender Registry, Gathers aliases include: Assassin, Tiger and Tragedy.

Miller told the court that Gathers has a warrant for his arrest in Georgia. His pending charges in Richmond County, Ga. include:

 An April 29, 2020 arrest for possession of methamphetamine, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of less than one ounce of marijuana and possession of a firearm during the commission of a violent felony

 A June 21, 2022 arrest for reckless driving, driving on wrong side of the roadway, improper use of central lane, expired tag, operating vehicle without a license, driving without a license and fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer.

In the meantime, Frazier continues to improve as he receives treatment at the Medical University of South Carolina hospital in Charleston.

The S.C. Department of Public Safety said its not known how long Frazier will be hospitalized, but that hes making progress and has been talking with friends and family.

If Gathers is convicted on his Bamberg County charges, he faces up to 60 years in prison if sentenced to consecutive terms for two attempted murder charges.
Amid heavy artillery bombardments and air strikes on the ruined city of Bakhmut, Russian President Vladimir Putin met with his commanders in two regions of Ukraine that Russia claims to have annexed.

The Kremlin stated that Vladimir Putin visited a national guard headquarters in eastern Luhansk on Monday and participated in a military command conference in the Kherson area of southern Ukraine.

Vladimir Putin received updates on the state of affairs in the southern Kherson and Zaporizhzhia areas from the commanders of the airborne troops, the Dnieper army group, and several other senior officers, as per a Reuters report.

As a security measure, the Kremlin said neither Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov nor Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu accompanied the Russian president as Vladimir Putin visited Ukraine.

On Twitter, Mykhailo Podolyak, a key advisor to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, mocked Vladimir Putin's Ukraine visit, characterizing it as a "'special tour' by the mass murderer of the "occupied" and devastated regions to relish the atrocities committed by his henchmen for one final time.

Read Also: Chinese Satellite Goes Rogue

Vladimir Putin noted in short comments upon his arrival that he didn't want to divert soldiers from their task and that his tour of the station would be conducted in a "businesslike manner, briefly, but concretely," according to Interfax, a news agency linked with the government of Russia, cited by ABC News.

Vladimir Putin Met With His Commanders as Ukrainian Troops Readies Its Counter-Strike

The media outlet reported that Vladimir Putin expressed the importance of listening to the opinions of his commanders and exchanging information regarding the development of the situation in the Russia-Ukraine war.

Although Putin had previously visited areas under Russian control, his recent trip to Kherson and Luhansk marked his first visit to regions partially under Russian military control.

According to DW, Vladimir Putin's trip happens as Ukrainian forces are ready to launch a new counteroffensive to retake the seized areas.

Russia's head of state traveled to Mariupol, a port city on the Sea of Azov that Russia seized control of in May last month.

The international community denounced Russia's annexation of Kherson, Luhansk, Donetsk, and Zaporizhzhia in September of last year as unlawful.

Related Article: Top Kremlin Critic Vladimir Kara-Murza Sentenced to 25 Years in Jail

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
A 37-year-old man is accused of shooting a state trooper and shooting at a Bamberg County Sheriffs Office deputy.

Derrick Edward Gathers of Damascus Road, Augusta, Georgia, is facing two counts of attempted murder and one count each of failure to stop for blue lights and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime.

The shooting took place just outside of Denmark at 3:30 a.m. Sunday.

S.C. Highway Patrol Lance Cpl. B.A. Frazier attempted to stop a Mazda SUV for allegedly driving 20 mph over the speed limit in the area of U.S. Highway 78 and Best Friend Avenue. Warrants allege Gathers was driving the SUV.

Frazier approached the Mazda SUV. Gathers allegedly presented a handgun and shot the trooper in the head with intent to kill the trooper, warrants say.

Gathers allegedly also shot at Bamberg County Deputy Dwayne Duckson, warrants say. Duckson was not physically injured.

Both Frazier and Duckson returned fire and bullets struck the SUV, according to S.C. Law Enforcement Division spokesperson Renee Wunderlich.

Gathers sped away, according to SLED.

Another state trooper, another Bamberg County deputy and a Bamberg police officer located and pursued the SUV through Bamberg County and into Branchville, according to Wunderlich.

The SUV crashed into an Edwards Street home in Branchville.

Medics took Gathers to the hospital for treatment.

He was released from the hospital on Monday and booked into the Bamberg County Detention Center at 1:59 p.m.

In the meantime, Frazier is continuing to recover after being shot on the right side of his face.

Hes currently hospitalized in Charleston.

Frazier is making significant progress and is currently in stable condition and speaking with family and visitors. At this time, its still unclear how long he will remain in the hospital, S.C. Department of Public Safety Public Affairs Director Heather Biance said.

Frazier has been serving as a state trooper since 2018.

Gathers is scheduled to have a bond hearing on Tuesday morning before a Bamberg County magistrate.
SALISBURY, N.C.  Food Lion is celebrating the remodeling of 20 stores, including its Orangeburg location.

From a brand-new look and feel to more convenient grab-and-go items to make any meal easier, each of these stores has made big changes with our customers in mind, said Meg Ham, Food Lion president. While we have made significant enhancements in these stores since they opened about two years ago, we remain committed to keeping our prices low every day, and also offering great promotions and other opportunities to save. We are excited for our neighbors to experience our low prices and the changes we have made just for them.

The remodeled stores feature an all-new look, extensive product assortment, a wide variety of affordable and easy grab-and-go meal options and a great selection of locally sourced items produced or grown in communities around the store.

Customers also have a large selection of affordable organic, gluten-free and plant-based items to choose from, including Natures Promise-brand items, which are Food Lions brand of organic products made with no artificial flavors, preservatives or synthetic colors.

To thank community leaders for their support since the stores opened and their patience during the remodels, Food Lion provided store-made catering trays to various local organizations as part of this weeks celebrations.

The first 100 customers in line on April 19 at the Orangeburg store will receive a mystery gift card valued up to $250. Through April 22, each store will distribute a free giveaway to the first 100 customers each day.
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The Russian president has given himself an array of options to achieve a neutral or an incapacitated Ukraine. From the German Marshall Fund.

Vladimir Putin sees the current security architecture as both unacceptable and dangerous to Russia. It is unacceptable because it manifests a series of tightening military, political, and economic relationships between Ukraine and the West, and Putin sees the West as fundamentally hostile to Russia. The current setup is dangerous, in Putins eyes, not so much because of what these relationships amount to in the winter of 20212022, but because of what they have the potential to become, which is a combined force capable either of countering Russian interests in its neighborhood or of destabilizing Russia itself by modeling a different kind of regime. Ukraines possible membership in NATO symbolizes the security dilemma Putin perceives on his Western border, but the dilemma itself runs much deeper than the unlikely prospects of NATO membership for Ukraine.

What Putin wants is to unwind the tightening military, political, and economic relationships between Ukraine and the West. He realizes that this aim cannot be accomplished through persuasion alone. Russia has little non-coercive leverage over the West, and NATO will not change its open-door policy. The West sees Ukraine as a model for change in the region (including in Russia). Bereft of non-coercive options (in his view) to halt Ukraines path of integration into Western institutions, Putin has begun exploring coercive options beyond the annexation of Crimea and occupation of the Donbas, neither of which has given him what he wants.

Putin may not be able to achieve precisely what he wantsa neutral Ukraine or a Ukraine under Russian sovereignty. He may settle, then, for trying to block outcomes he does not want, alternating between the use of military force and threat of military force to compel the West to minimize its commitment to Ukraine and/or to eliminate the Ukrainian states capacity to obstruct Russias regional interests.

Why Now?

The current environment is perceived as compelling as well as conducive by Moscow. Nonetheless, the urgency and hastiness of Russias demands is surprising. After all, complaints about the West exploiting Moscows weakness had been Russian talking points for many years. Now, though, the matter is seen as exigent. In the words of Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, legally binding guarantees are necessary now within a reasonable time, otherwise Russia will be forced  to eliminate unacceptable threats to our security. (According to the Russian president, Moscow has nowhere further to retreat to.)

Different factors contribute to the sense of urgency as well as opportunity in Moscow.

Internationally, Russia has strengthened its position in the neighborhood in Belarus, Armenia, and now also in Kazakhstan. Domestically, the Russian president secured himself the constitutional right to re-run in 2024, followed by a wave of repression, with no domestic opposition to his course expected. Some Russian commentators view it as part of his personal legacy to solve Ukraine and re-order European security before re-election in 2024 (in an article from July 2021, the Russian president argued that true sovereignty of Ukraine is possible only in partnership with Russia.).

At the same time, Moscow became frustrated with the Minsk process, as it hoped for far-reaching concessions from newly elected President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. Ukraines increased military cooperation with the United States, the United Kingdom, and Turkey is depicted as equally threatening to Russia as formal NATO membership, transforming Ukraine into a military foothold, in the words of Lavrov. In Moscow, an intervention now could be perceived as less costly than an intervention later.

Across the Atlantic, the establishment of a long overdue, strategic stability dialogue in June 2021 meant, for Moscow, that the United States was finally listening to some of Russias grievances. The Russian leadership took this as an opportunity for an all-or-nothing strategy with its package of not-to-be-untied demands, which could be used as a pretext for war in case of refusal. Moscow is well aware that Ukraine matters more to Russia than it does to the West, and that the priority of Bidens presidency was meant to be China.

At the same time, Europe is in the midst of leadership changes, with a new government in Berlin and presidential elections in France. Russias refusal to increase gas flows to Europe was a demonstration of Europes vulnerability. This adds up to a likely perception in Moscow that it is the right time to pursue a course of military threats and ultimatums to achieve its goals  and that the potential benefits outweigh the costs.

But there is another thought to keep in mind regarding Moscows sudden urgency: we simply might not know nor anticipate why certain decisions are taken at the top level. Political leaders do not necessarily follow the rational actor model (to use the term of political scientist Graham Allison) but can instead be driven by internal decision-making processes impenetrable to the outside observer. This is a useful reminder of blind spots: unimaginable options for one side might present themselves as rational to the other.

Whats the Strategy to Achieve These Aims?

Putin has given himself an array of options to achieve a neutral or an incapacitated Ukraine. The foundation of his approach is Russias military power and as backup economic statecraft and espionage/cyber interference. In the short term (the next few weeks), Putin will threaten the use of such power to secure European and U.S. acquiescence to his preferred terms of settlement, which may be less maximalist than his rhetoric often suggests.

He will ascertain whether there is any room for a reversal of the trends that have led him to take such radical action. This phase of diplomacy is also important to Putin in preparing Russian public opinion for the possibility of a major war between Russia and Ukraine. Perhaps war is the course Putin has already chosen. If so, it cannot be a minor war. A minimal objective would be to topple the Ukrainian government  not necessarily through overt military force  and to install a puppet leader.

A more ambitious objective would be to divide the country in two, with the line between Russia and a rump Ukrainian state one of Putins choosing. The most expansive goal would be to conquer Ukraine entirely and then either to occupy it or to demand that its independence be negotiated on Putins terms. A fourth option, mirroring some of Russias strategy in Syria, would be to make a failed state of Ukraine through military intervention and internal subversion, precipitating a migrant crisis that would become Europes headache.

Putin, reviewing his options, need not succeed at nation building or at colonialism in Ukraine. He is focused on getting Ukraine in its current contours  with its Western-leaning, pro-American, pro-NATO government  to fail and may construe the possibility of such failure as the foundation for the success of Russian policy.

What Are Moscows Calculations Vis-a-Vis Europe and the United States?

Europe and the United States have already provided the answer to Moscows most important calculation: the West will not fight and die for Ukraine. With 100,000 troops amassed at the Ukrainian border, this gives Russia the upper hand in negotiations, as the West relies much more on a diplomatic outcome of the situation than Russia does.

Russia also expects that Europe and the United States will not risk the military-technical response threatened by Putin. Although the Wests response will be limited to economic sanctions, support for Ukraine, and reassurance for eastern NATO member states, the threat of far-reaching sanctions has made enough of an impression on Moscow that it has threatened a complete breakdown in Russia-U.S. relations if the sanctions threat is implemented.

Moscow might hope to be able to withstand the impact of sanctions, as it has done since 2014 with much softer sanctions. It will also certainly cooperate more closely with China in economic and financial areas, knowing this makes Washington nervous.

But there will be wider geopolitical repercussions in Europe, and the first signs are that Finland and Sweden are rushing to underline their independent choice of alliance, and eastern member states are demanding reassurance measures by NATO. If the larger goal is to weaken European and transatlantic cohesion, a short-term tactical win in Ukraine can become a long-term strategic loss to Moscow.

Even if Ukraine matters more to Russia than it does to the West: the post-Cold War European order and the alliance with the United States does matter to Europe, and vice versa.

Liana Fix is a resident fellow in GMFs Washington office while on sabbatical leave from the International Affairs department of the Koerber Foundation in Berlin. She is a historian and political scientist, and her work focuses on Russia and Eastern Europe, European security, arms control, and German foreign policy.



Michael Kimmage is a visiting fellow at in GMFs Washington office and a professor of history at the Catholic University of America. From 2014 to 2016, he served on the secretarys policy planning staff at the U.S. Department of State, where he held the Russia/Ukraine portfolio. This article originally appeared on the German Marshall Funds website. Reprinted with permission.
A Casper man who died while in police custody last month overdosed on methamphetamine in the back of a patrol car soon after receiving a medical evaluation at Banner Wyoming Medical Center, a coroners case docket obtained on Tuesday shows.

Wayne Kenneth Sanchez, 62, ingested the drugs before interacting with police on March 8, the Natrona County Coroners Office told the Star-Tribune.

The Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation is continuing to examine Sanchezs death, which is why the coroners office has yet to put out an official statement on Sanchezs autopsy and toxicology results.

Investigators are looking into whether Casper police are at fault in any way, according to the coroners office. There is no indication so far that they were.

Sanchez died at 10:19 a.m., the case docket states. The manner of death was accidental.

Sanchez was a passenger in a minor crash at the intersection of E and Center streets on the morning of March 8, according to the Casper Police Department.

While investigating the crash, Casper police say they developed probable cause to arrest Sanchez for a drug violation.

Initial investigation shows the arrest was benign, the suspect was cooperative, and the arrest required no use of police force, the police department said in a statement.

Sanchez briefly arrived at the jail after the arrest but was immediately transported to the hospital for a medical evaluation as part of routine procedure, Natrona County Sheriffs Office spokesperson Kiera Grogan said last month.

As soon as someone comes, they are transported to Banner Health, she said. Anyone who is meant to be booked into the Natrona County Detention Center goes through this process.

Sanchez, who was arrested on a drug charge and was likely already on drugs, was then cleared by medical professionals and approved to enter the jail.

After an inmate is seen by a provider, he or she might be monitored, admitted to the hospital or cleared to go to the detention center, Mandy Cepeda, spokesperson for Banner Wyoming Medical Center, said Wednesday.

All patients who enter the Emergency Department are triaged to determine the severity of their illness or injury and the urgency of seeing an emergency provider, Cepeda said.

Sanchez died during the approximately three-minute drive from the Casper hospital to the Natrona County Detention Center. Officers didnt realize he was having a medical emergency during that one-mile trip, authorities say.

It appeared that he passed away during transport, Grogan said last month. They realized he had the medical emergency, physically, in the parking garage outside the jail.

As Sanchez was never booked or an inmate, the Natrona County Sheriffs Office said it was unable to comment Tuesday.

Casper police said they would conduct their own internal investigation in the days following Sanchezs death. Amber Freestone, spokesperson for the Casper Police Department, would not comment Tuesday beyond directing people towards the departments original statement on Facebook.

The CPD requested a DCI and County Coroner investigation per policy in this case, she said in a text. Please see the original press release available on FB 3/8/23.

<&rule>

Year in review: Top Casper Star-Tribune photography from 2022
SHERIDAN (WNE)  AARP is now accepting nominations for its 2023 Wyoming Andrus Award for Community Service, which honors 50+ Wyomingites who are sharing their experience, talent and skills to enrich the lives of their community members.

Nominations for this years award will be accepted through July 15 at the AARP Wyoming State Office. Nomination forms are available by contacting Avery Yak at ayak@aarp.org, or on the web at aarp.org/AndrusAward.

Nominations will be evaluated by the AARP Wyoming State Office based on how the volunteers work has improved the community, reflected AARPs vision and mission, and inspired other volunteers.

The state office will then pair down the list of nominees to three finalists. The public will then be asked to vote for the state Andrus Award winner by liking, and sharing, a video of their favorite nominee posted on AARP Wyomings Facebook page.

AARP Wyoming will make a $500 donation to a non-profit in the name of the person who nominated the Andrus Award winner.

AARP Wyoming Andrus Award for Community Service nominees must meet the following eligibility requirements:

Nominees must be 50 years or older.

The achievements, accomplishments, or service on which the nomination is based must have been performed on a volunteer basis, without pay. Volunteers receiving small stipends to cover the costs associated with the volunteer activity are eligible.

The achievements, accomplishments, or service on which the nomination is based must reflect AARPs vision and purpose.

The achievements, accomplishments, or service on which the nomination is based must be replicable and provide inspiration for others to volunteer.

Partisan political achievements, accomplishments or service may not be considered.

Couples or partners who perform service together are also eligible; however, teams are not eligible.

This is not a posthumous award.
The Wyoming Supreme Court on Monday reversed the conviction of a Cheyenne man who successfully argued officers warrantless entry into his home violated his rights.

Myron Martize Woods conviction came after Cheyenne police entered his home without a warrant to arrest him for misdemeanor domestic battery. But, the high court concluded, the circumstances did not exist that would have legally permitted officers to do so without a warrant.

On Feb. 13, 2020, the Cheyenne Police Department received a report of a disturbance. Officers found Woods, his wife and his ex-girlfriend at the scene.

Woods and his ex-girlfriend share a son. The two had been arguing that evening after the ex-girlfriend saw Woods at Walmart without their son, whom he was supposed to be watching.

He was accused of grabbing her neck and pushing her while she was trying to get their son out of his car. After an officer interviewed all of the involved parties, he found there was not enough cause to arrest Woods, the ruling states.

The ex-girlfriend called police later that night after marks on her neck began appearing, the ruling states. The officer believed he now had enough evidence to arrest Woods for misdemeanor domestic battery.

But the officer did not try to obtain an arrest warrant, believing it was not required within 24 hours of the alleged offense, the ruling states.

Just before midnight, three officers arrived at Woods home. A body camera on one of the officers captured the interaction. Woods wife answered the door, and he was standing directly behind her.

The officers repeatedly questioned Woods about what happened and asked him to step out of his home. He declined.

An officer eventually reached over the threshold of the home to grab Woods wrist and pull him outside, the ruling states. Police struggled with him for over two minutes before handcuffing him and forcing him out of his house.

The state charged Woods with one count of misdemeanor domestic battery and one count of interference with a peace officer. Woods filed a motion to suppress the evidence, which he argued was obtained in violation of his Fourth Amendment right.

The court denied his motion. In April 2021, Woods was acquitted of domestic battery but found guilty of police interference during a jury trial held in Laramie County Circuit Court.

He was sentenced to one year of probation. Woods appealed his conviction in district court the following year but lost.

The Wyoming Supreme Court ruled Monday that because the officers were not engaged in the lawful performance of their official duties when they entered Woods home without a warrant, none of the other issues needed to be addressed.

In a previous ruling on Fourth Amendment rights, the Supreme Court stated that a bright line has been drawn at the threshold of a persons dwelling which cannot be crossed to effectuate the warrantless arrest of a suspect absent consent or exigent circumstances.

This case had no extenuating circumstances  Woods did not possess any weapons, did not pose an immediate threat to his ex-girlfriend and did not surrender his expectation of privacy when his wife answered a knock at the front door, the ruling states.
A dead NASA spacecraft, according to experts, would return to Earth over the next few days and crash into the ground.

In a report by Space.com, the US military forecasts that the decommissioned NASA satellite RHESSI will reenter Earth's atmosphere on Wednesday, April 19 (01:30 GMT on April 20), which would be within 16 hours.

RHESSI was launched in 2002 and studied the sun until its retirement in 2018.

The satellite known as RHESSI (short for "Reuven Ramaty High Energy Solar Spectroscopic Imager") is quite small. The mass of RHESSI's small size (around 600 lb/270 kg) will be turned into ash and vapor during its demise fall, according to NASA.

On the other hand, agency officials stated in an update on Monday, April 17, that they anticipate some components will survive reentry. There is a very little chance that anybody on Earth may be harmed, perhaps about 1 in 2,467.

'Crowded and Dangerous'

The impending demise of RHESSI serves as a stark warning that the orbit above Earth is becoming more crowded and perilous.

Networks across the world monitoring space activity are keeping tabs on more than 30,000 individual bits of orbital debris. The problem is that many more are just too little for them to monitor.

About a million objects, each measuring between 0.4 and 4 inches in width, are now hurtling through space at high speed, as estimated by the European Space Agency (ESA). Furthermore, there are about 130 million pieces between 0.04 inches and 0.4 inches.

The high velocity at which these fragments travel means that they may do significant damage to a satellite or a crewed spacecraft even if they make contact with them. Speeds of around 17,500 mph (28,160 kph) are reached in low Earth orbit, where the International Space Station (ISS) and many other crafts travel.

Additional space debris is produced as a result of collisions in space, which increases the likelihood of other collisions in the future. If enough of these things occur, we will have the Kessler Syndrome, a chain reaction that might severely hinder our capacity to explore and utilize space.

Also Read: Ring of Fire Solar Eclipse Set to Dazzle Spectators in Kansas

RHESSI's 2002 Launch

In February 2002, a Pegasus XL rocket deployed the RHESSI satellite in a low Earth orbit. Using its only scientific equipment, an imaging spectrometer that captured X-rays and gamma rays, the spacecraft investigated solar flares and coronal mass ejections.

NASA said on Monday that RHESSI had captured over 100,000 X-ray events throughout its mission, enabling scientists to examine the energetic particles in solar flares. Scientists used the imager to track their frequency, position, and motion to find out where the particles were being accelerated.

Encounters With Earth-Bound Space Junk

When it finally crashes into Earth, RHESSI will not even be the largest piece of space debris to fall to Earth unpredictably. Five days after launching the third and final module for China's Tiangong space station in November 2022, the rocket's core stage, weighing 23 tons, fell down to Earth.

That was the fourth flight of the Long March 5B, and all four of them had ended in the uncontrolled reentry of the rocket's huge core stage.

Also Read: Chinese Satellite Goes Rogue, Unexpectedly Embarks on Sightseeing Tour with AI at the Helm

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
CODY (WNE)  This is an inexcusable tragedy, Mr. Getzfreid, Park County District Court Judge Bill Simpson said moments before Jason Getzfreid, 29, of Powell pleaded guilty to murdering his four-month-old child during a change of plea hearing April 12.

A child, only four months old, died in your care, Simpson said. A totally innocent person who never even had a chance of life, dead because of your incompetence and willful indifference.

During the hearing, a plea agreement was reached that amended Getzfreids charge from murder in the first degree to murder in the second degree. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to serve between 30 and 35 years in a state prison.

The baby died Aug. 27, 2021 after being transported from Powell Valley Healthcare to a hospital in Salt Lake City.

After pleading guilty, Getzfreid described the events that led to his babys death.

He said the baby had started fussing, and he tried to give her a pacifier and swaddle her but then realized she needed a diaper change.

Before I picked her up to check her diaper, I asked her what her problem was, and I started shaking her, he said. [And] she started crying worse.

Getzfreid said he then set the baby on the couch, but when I reached over, she rolled or fell or something and hit the floor. Thats when she went limp and unresponsive.

I didnt mean to cause harm to my daughter, he said later.

Simpson granted the plea agreement despite his own objections.

Im not a party to the plea agreement, he said. Its inexplicable to take a life and not have to pay more in terms of the life of the perpetrator.
Wyomings former Rep. Liz Cheney lived through the thick of some of the most defining moments in U.S. history. Shell share that story in her forthcoming memoir, Oath and Honor: A Memoir and a Warning.

Little, Brown and Company announced Tuesday that it will publish Cheneys book, which is slated to come out Nov. 14. It aims to explain why she stood against her party to denounce former President Donald Trump in the wake of the 2020 elections and whats at stake in 2024.

The last two years have shown us once again that our constitutional republic is not self- sustaining. It survives only because of the courage and honor of individual Americans, Cheney said in the announcement.

When history looks back on this time, each elected official will have to answer the questions: Did we do our duty? Were we faithful to our oath of office?

Cheney, who lost her primary election last year to Wyomings current representative, Trump-backed land attorney Harriet Hageman, became one of the former presidents most outspoken critics after he claimed, without evidence, that the 2020 presidential election was stolen from him. Cheney voted to impeach Trump following the Jan. 6, 2021 attack of the U.S. Capitol. She also served as vice chair of the committee that investigated the attack and eventually voted unanimously to refer charges against Trump to the U.S. Department of Justice.

Cheney suffered backlash for going against the Republican Party in her denouncement of Trump.

The Wyoming GOP and the Republican National Committee censured her over her stance toward Trump and her role on the Jan. 6 committee. At a May rally in Casper, Trump stood beside Hageman onstage and told the crowd to fire Cheney.

That discontent resonated among Wyomings voters: Hageman, Trumps pick to unseat Cheney, trounced the former congresswoman in last years primary election by nearly 40 points. Cheney had coasted to victory in previous elections.

Despite the backlash, Cheney made it her mission to ensure Trump would never again hold office. At the last Jan. 6 committee meeting in December, she called Trump unfit for any office.

The orderly transfer of authority, as called for in the Constitution, routinely takes place, as it has for almost two centuries, and few of us stop to think how unique we really are. In the eyes of many in the world, this every-four-year ceremony we accept as normal is nothing less than a miracle, Cheney said in her opening statement at the meeting.

Every President in our history has defended this orderly transfer of authority, except one. January 6, 2021 was the first time one American President refused his Constitutional duty to transfer power peacefully to the next.

Trump was recently indicted and pleaded not guilty to 34 charges of falsifying business records related to hush money payments he allegedly made to an adult film actress and a Playboy model. Hes also at the center of criminal investigations in Georgia and Washington related to his attempts to overturn the 2020 presidential election and his handling of classified materials.

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Wyoming has struggled to find a sustainable model for its emergency medical services system that is both cost-effective and improves access to care. So a panel of lawmakers will take a crack at the issue later this year.

The Joint Labor, Health and Social Services Committee will study staffing and funding for the states EMS network and a licensing program that would expand behavioral health training for emergency technicians, helping them to respond to mental health crises in rural communities.

Lawmakers took up the issue at the request of Gov. Mark Gordon. They will look to build on the recent work of the governors Health Care Task Force, the Wyoming Department of Health and the Legislature, which have been trying to bolster a fragile system that faces growing demands and increasingly vulnerable EMS providers.

As a part of its work, the committee will also examine staffing efforts for Wyomings volunteer firefighters alongside emergency technicians.

Increasingly, were having difficulties recruiting and retaining qualified individuals to go into firefighting and EMS roles, said Rep. Dan Zwonitzer, R-Cheyenne, the chair of the House Labor Committee.

A Department of Health survey found that staffing was the greatest concern for Wyoming EMS directors driven by a lack of volunteers, according to a report released last October.

The issue is especially acute for rural and frontier EMS providers, which rely more on volunteers. In its report, the Department of Health drew a comparison between EMS and volunteer firefighters, with volunteer rates in firefighting decreasing nearly 30% over two decades, according to the National Fire Protection Association Journal.

EMS agencies also reported challenges retaining paid staff because many seek to advance into other areas within the healthcare sector, the authors wrote.

The report was prepared for Gordons Health Care Task Force following meetings with EMS agencies and other local groups. It found that funding was another significant worry for EMS providers in Wyoming.

It can cost more than $500,000 annually to run a basic ambulance. One with advanced life support care costs on average $1.1 million, requiring somewhere between 1,400 and 2,000 trips a year to break even, according to the report.

Recent state budget cuts have taken a toll, placing more education and training costs on emergency technicians and EMS agencies, the report said. At the same time, EMS calls in Wyoming have increased by 27% to nearly 89,000 since 2016.

Zwonitzer said the joint committee would use the interim to start a conversation while investigating the challenges facing the states EMS and firefighting services and searching for ways to bolster staffing.

Lawmakers took a step toward addressing funding issues during the 2023 legislative session when they passed a bill sponsored by Sen. Cale Case, R-Lander, which allowed county boards to form EMS districts.

But while it gives counties flexibility, residents must agree to raise taxes to form a district.

Speaking before the Joint Labor Committee in February, Gordons health and human services advisor Jen Davis told lawmakers that the bill and another $10 million in COVID-relief funds the state invested in an EMS pilot project were a step forward, but not the final solutions.

We know its an option for the toolbox, but we know its not going to completely solve the issue that we have around our frail infrastructure for EMS, Davis said.

Lawmaker education and other topics

The Joint Labor Committee will also look at long-term care and nursing homes and the requirements that health insurance companies place on doctors and patients for treatments.

Part of that work will include a study of the Program for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly, or PACE, a state and federal program that provides a range of medical and social services so the elderly can stay in their homes.

State budget cuts ended the program two years ago, but lawmakers approved funding during the last legislative to look at bringing it back. Other states that have the program have found that it saves money by allowing people to live independently, Zwonitzer said.

It keeps people living longer, keeps them out of nursing homes and provides a better quality of life, he said.

While the Joint Labor Committee has a full slate of interim topics, much of the panels time will also be spent bringing new members up to speed on the states health care system.

Six of the nine House members were new lawmakers in 2023.

Zwonitzer said one of the priorities for the interim will be ensuring that lawmakers have the knowledge they need to prepare the next general session in 2025.

Health care is really complex and its expensive, Zwonitzer said.  The Department of Health is a couple billion dollars between state and federal funds, and everybody just thinks you can cut $100,000 or $1 million here, $10 million there. But all of that goes to fund programs for services.

The Joint Labor Committee will hold its first of three interim meetings on April 27 and 28 in Casper.

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Lawmakers will take a first look next week at the idea of creating a health substance abuse diversion program in Wyoming, which would aim to keep low-level offenders who struggle with mental health and substance abuse out of the criminal justice system.

The hypothetical pilot program would encompass courts, law enforcement, prosecutors, public defenders and behavioral health providers, according to a model draft drawn up by the Wyoming Judicial Branch. It would have ancillary benefits like addressing crowded jails and logjammed courts, taking pressure off of the Wyoming State Hospital and reducing recidivism.

This year is Wyomings first crack at considering such a diversion program.

I really think its a timely topic, and I think that as it relates to corrections, just so important that we look at any angle we can to try to do things better, said Sen. Bill Landen, cochairman of the Joint Judiciary Committee, which will take up the topic at its meeting Tuesday.

The U.S. has the highest incarceration rate of any country in the world, according to the Prison Policy Initiative, a nonprofit, nonpartisan research organization. In Wyoming, the incarceration rate steadily increased between the late 70s through the mid-2010s. Rural counties have the highest rates of prison admissions, according to a report from the Vera Institute of Justice.

Discussion of a potential diversion program for people who struggle with mental health and substance abuse also comes amid heightened attention on mental health issues in Wyoming  the state with the highest suicide rate in the nation, according to the most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Representatives from Wyoming recently traveled to Florida to learn more about an existing diversion program in the states Miami-Dade County.

The countys Criminal Mental Health Project launched in 2000; between 2000 and 2020, the incarceration rates there have roughly halved, according to a 2021 report by the Eleventh Judicial Circuit of Florida.
CHEYENNE  In a records-request fight between two residents and the Wyoming Department of Education, initial documents show the state spent taxpayer dollars on a private anti-sexualization event hosted by the former state superintendent.

Brian Schroeder was appointed as the state superintendent of public instruction by Gov. Mark Gordon in January 2022 to replace Jillian Balow after she left to lead the Virginia Department of Education. He received statewide attention in his year of public service for his opinions on critical race theory, charter schools, transgender athletes and the alleged sexualization of children in public schools.

He held a press conference in October called Stop the Sexualization of Our Children to address what he described as a critical issue. He requested the presence of the public and invited parents, lawmakers and No Left Turn in Education officials to speak at the event.

Schroeder wrote in a letter to Sen. Lynn Hutchings, R-Cheyenne, in mid-October that there would be a focus on protecting the innocence of children and supporting parental authority, and the laws and policies that coincide and reinforce the same.

It was originally scheduled for Oct. 25, 2022, in the auditorium of the Emerson Building, and stakeholders immediately questioned whether the event was state-sponsored and funded by the WDE.

George Powers and Rodger McDaniel were two residents in search of concrete answers before the press conference took place, and would communicate back and forth with the state agency for months after the event before filing a public records lawsuit at the beginning of March.

They discovered in part what was already suspected through documents provided in February.

An executive assistant at the WDE was directed by Schroeder to purchase flights and make hotel reservations for speakers at the event, despite the state agency making statements later that it was not backing the event with funds.

No state funds will be used in connection with this event, Deputy Superintendent of Public Instruction Chad Auer wrote in a statement sent to the Wyoming Tribune Eagle on Oct. 20. The final venue for the press conference is yet to be determined. The superintendent wants the focus of the discussion to be on the issue of parental authority and standing up against the sexualization of Wyomings children. He does not want the discussion to be distracted by a debate about the proper role of the agency, or use of taxpayer funds/agency resources.

By separating Schroeders event from the agency, I believe we have arrived at the proper balance.

The event was hosted at Cheyenne Little America Hotel and Resort instead of a state building, but the money had already been spent and would continue to be.

The individual procurement card log for executive assistant Penny Rodriguez showed purchases for three flights on Oct. 13. The first purchase was a United Airlines flight for Andrew Wells in the amount of $777.20, and then two Southwest Airlines flights costing $657.96 and $648.96 were booked for Elana Fishbein and Melissa Jackson.

All three individuals were speakers at the press conference.

He provided me with the contact information for the individuals and requested that I purchase airline tickets and make hotel reservations, Rodriguez wrote in a letter dated Oct. 25 about the former state superintendent. I confirmed this information with Trent Carroll, and I was able to find affordable flights and hotel accommodations.

She continued that Schroeder let her know that he was considering not using state funds anymore to pay for some or all of the travel expenses, and she wrote that she advised him to speak with Carroll regarding the details. Carroll is currently the chief operations officer for the department.

Superintendent Schroeder has now confirmed that he does not want to use state funds for this event, and he will provide the WDE reimbursement for the airplane tickets that were charged on my phantom card on 10/13/22, she concluded.

An email was sent the day before by accounting analyst Miranda Aumack to Carroll, also expressing doubt about how to move forward. She wrote that she had a budgeting question for him, since this has gotten a bit too political for me to think that Ive made the correct decision on any of it lol!

Since its been publicly announced no state funds would be used for the event (the sexualization of children in literature, etc.) for which the below folks have had tickets purchased on Pennys Phantom Card, can we use up the elected officials budget, she wrote, adding a Google Docs link. And whatever the funds the Superintendent collects during fundraising can be used to reimburse that budget??

Carroll responded on the day of the press conference and directed them to which funds should be used, and said they would deposit the funds back when the superintendent provided the reimbursement. He also said not to worry about hotel reservations or any other arrangements.

However, another charge was made Nov. 1 to the same individual procurement card for three no-show fees of $110.74 at the Holiday Inn Express for Wells, Fishbein and Jackson.

Rodriguez wrote a second letter at the end of November explaining they didnt provide communication to anyone they would not be staying at the Holiday Inn Express or making their own hotel reservations.

I confirmed with Superintendent Schroeder that the Holiday Inn Express charged my phantom card a no-show charge of $110.74 per guest, she explained. I provided him with copies of the invoices and let him know that these charges would need to be reimbursed to the WDE.

These were the only official documents provided to the two residents by WDE Communications Director Linda Finnerty, besides two checks of $1,000 each sent by Todd A. Maus and Kyle True to the department labeled for press conference.

The two donations totaled $2,000 but didnt cover the $2,416.34 spent by the department in full. No other donations were included in the documents, nor were any other expenditures for the room at the hotel resort or accommodations noted in the lawsuit exhibitions.

Although these documents showed these expenses, it was a drawn-out process, and didnt leave Powers and McDaniel satisfied.

The first request for information was made by Powers on Oct. 14, directly to Superintendent Schroeder. He wanted answers on how the state funds were being used, if it was being sponsored privately, and who the actors were, had the public been publicly noticed, and a string of other questions.

Finnerty told him the superintendent would reach out to him directly on Oct. 19, and an answer was received after an additional follow-up the next day.

Schroeder said no state funds will be used, the funds to cover the cost of the event were through private donations, and WDE personnel would not have any roles or responsibilities in connection with the event. He didnt provide the list of donors but answered questions on who would be attending and said Powers was welcome to be at the event.

The answers werent detailed enough, according to the plaintiffs.

Your reply was helpful, but regrettably it was also incomplete, Powers wrote in a response.

These kinds of conversations continued for months, leading to McDaniel getting involved and requests for even more records from WDE. Often officials would cite having no materials or documentation that matched the request or that all the communications accessible that were available to them had been sent.

The final communication with WDE was filed by both Powers and McDaniels together, and was a response to the receipts, emails and two checks coming to light.

But there were many documents the two plaintiffs believed remained in the hands of the department.

They had requested communications between Schroeder and other representatives in WDE, as well as No Left Turn in Education and Moms for Liberty officials  including personal texts and emails.This spanned materials for planning the event, as well as creating the statement within the department telling the public that state funds werent being used.

In reviewing the materials that you produced, I noted that Superintendent Schroeder forwarded a copy of your October 11, 2022, email to himself at what I presume was his personal account, bschroeder081858@ gmail.com. This suggests that he may have used his personal account to conduct or collect further communications relating to this event, and, if so, those emails should also be collected and produced as responsive public records, McDaniel previously stated in an email to Finnerty. There can be no dispute about the fact that Superintendent Schroeder was treating this event as part of his official function and a transaction of public business.

Other questions revolved around meetings between Fishbein and Schroeder, the post-conference meeting that was promoted as a chance to discuss strategy, legislation and law, or the modification of original plans to hold the event on state-owned property.

Based on their review of the responses and documents related to specific requests, such as these, they said they had serious concerns about the accuracy and sufficiency of those responses.They didnt believe that WDE had discharged its duties under the Wyoming Public Records Act, and proceeded to explain in great detail where perceived failures lie.

The two residents also warned WDE officials they were reserving their rights, including, but not limited to, our rights to pursue this matter with the Office of the Ombudsman and/or with the courts.

After the letter was sent to the department, the attorneys moved forward with litigation. They are asking the Laramie County District Court to order defendants to fully and properly produce all public records, as well as award penalties and damages caused by their knowing or intentional failure to produce public records in compliance with the WPRA.

Other damages, such as costs incurred or just and proper relief, was included, but information was the key component of the civil lawsuit.

WDE and Schroeder have not been forthcoming in the responses to legitimate inquiries concerning this event, according to Powers and McDaniel. He may have chosen to call it a press conference, but it was nothing more than a political rally staged to promote his personal agenda, as well as that of other selected persons and organizations.

The people of Wyoming deserve a chance to see everything that was done in connection with this event. They are entitled to know who participated in its organization. They are entitled to know what public money was spent and, if private parties made contributions to defray those expenses, the people of Wyoming are entitled to know that, as well.

PHOTOS: Schools leader rallies against gender identity teaching, books Brian Schroeder Press Conference Brian Schroeder Press Conference Brian Schroeder Press Conference Brian Schroeder Press Conference Brian Schroeder Press Conference Brian Schroeder Press Conference Brian Schroeder Press Conference Brian Schroeder Press Conference Brian Schroeder Press Conference Brian Schroeder Press Conference Brian Schroeder Press Conference Brian Schroeder Press Conference Brian Schroeder Press Conference Brian Schroeder Press Conference Brian Schroeder Press Conference Brian Schroeder Press Conference Brian Schroeder Press Conference Brian Schroeder Press Conference Brian Schroeder Press Conference Brian Schroeder Press Conference
More than a month after signing a confidentiality agreement with the Bolivarian Republic, Trinidad and Tobago is no where closer to bringing much needed natural gas from Venezuela to these shores.

Sources in a position to know tell Express Business that the negotiations are at a standstill because the T&T government is awaiting to see what happens in Venezuela with respect to the present crackdown on corruption before it tries to engage the south American neighbour.
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The vehicle carrying a group of friends allegedly entered the incorrect driveway of a property in upstate New York by accident, prompting the homeowner to open fire, killing a 20-year-old passenger woman in the car.

This tragic incident happened on Saturday night, April 15.

Mistake Gone Very Bad

The Washington County Sheriff's Office said that Saratoga County resident Kaylin Gillis and her three friends were driving about looking for a friend's home in the village of Hebron when they made a mistake turn into a driveway.

Authorities say that when the automobile's driver was leaving the house where they had unintentionally pulled up, the homeowner, Kevin Monahan, fired two bullets at the car from his patio.

Gillis took a direct hit from a gunshot.

At a news conference on Monday, April 17, Sheriff Jeffrey Murphy said that the 65-year-old Monahan had been arrested and charged with second-degree murder. "This is a very sad case of some young adults who were looking for a friend's house and ended up at this man's house who decided to come out with a firearm and discharge it."

Monahan is now being jailed in adjacent Warren County for his next court appearance in Washington County.

The Times Union quoted investigators as saying they do not think either mental illness or alcohol had a role in the incident.

See Also: Mississippi Man Arrested for Hiding a Gun in a Taco Bell Quesadilla, Police Say

The Night of Tragedy

According to The New York Post, Sheriff Murphy stated that after hearing gunshots at approximately 10:00 PM, Gillis and his companions fled with their car until they could get cell service in a nearby town and ask for assistance.

When emergency personnel arrived, Gillis was declared dead at the scene.

Murphy claims there was no interaction between the homeowner and the friends in the car.

However, Murphy did say that the automobile was only in the driveway for a "very short time."

Murphy claimed it was simple to get lost in the region since there were so many dirt roads.

The sheriff also stated it was abundantly clear that nobody in the car posed any kind of threat, so Monahan should not feel threatened at the time.

Monahan reportedly refused to cooperate with deputies when they arrived. There was "a bit of a situation" before he was brought into jail after he refused to leave his house for nearly an hour, as described by Murphy.

Devastated by Sudden Loss of Life

Those who knew Gillis and her grieving family were still in shock at the senseless shooting death of the young woman.

As per public records, Gillis' father works as a corrections officer at the Washington County prison.

Haleigh Eustis, 20, a cousin of Gillis', told The New York Post on Monday night that the victim was so young, with so much life ahead of her.

"I can't imagine how he feels right now. I know they were attached at the hip. And she had a very loving family. It's just a loving, big family, and she had such a strong backbone from being a part of this family. And I feel so much anger that she can't have that anymore."

See Also: FBI Arrests 2 Individuals in Relation to Secret Chinese Police Station Hidden in Manhattan, New York

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Port of Spain Mayor Joel Martinez intends to ask for an investigation as to why it is with t
It was Woodrow Wilson who insisted there is a need for transparency in government. He pointed out the people have a right to know what the true state of affairs is, and what their representatives were doing on their behalf. He said, Government ought to be all outside and no inside... Everybody knows that corruption thrives in secret places, and avoids public places, and we believe it a fair presumption that secrecy means impropriety.
Angels in Tucson are trading their halos for cowboy hats with Rock the Fox, featuring Grammy-nominated country music star, Elle King, with Madeline Edwards at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 26, at the Fox Tucson Theatre, 17 W. Congress St.

King, a pop sensation and Academy of Country Music and Country Music Association Award winner, will headline the concert to launch Angel Charity for Childrens 2023 fundraising campaign to raise more than $1 million for local nonprofits.

This is our first country concert. We wanted to try something totally different this year and we thought a country concert might reach a new demographic in the community. We are partnering with the historic Fox Theatre downtown and so far the support from the community and sponsors has been phenomenal, said Gillian Kazmierczak, the spring event chair for Angel Charity.

The organization, which is comprised of 250 active volunteers, has raised more than $30 million to benefit 129 local childrens projects since 1983.

Everyone is excited about supporting a new event to raise funds for local children. Country music as a whole has taken a new twist in the 2020s. It has evolved to appeal to younger generations while keeping its older and long-term fan base engaged. Elle King performs modern country with a little crossover to rock n roll and has done fantastic collaborations with other artists such as Miranda Lambert, said Kazmierczak, a four-year member of Angel Charity. The senior subcontract specialist for Raytheon is also a long-time country music fan.

Collaborations are a cornerstone of Angel Charity, which has garnered a reputation for large, impactful gifts ranging from funding of nonprofit programs and scientific research to new construction of facilities, renovations and retiring of mortgages. More than a million children have benefited from the services that Angel Charity and its donors have funded over the years.

The grant for Steele will support physician-scientists, medical students, pediatric residents and researchers with cutting-edge technology, according to Jeannie Nguyen, general chair of Angel Charity.

Renovation of the labs will support the NovaSeq 6000 System, a machine that conducts state-of-the-art whole genome sequencing. This is life-saving technology that uses genetics to detect a variety of diseases quickly; it will have a meaningful impact on the lives of children early in the diagnosis process, said Nguyen.

The machine is capable of sequencing 48 whole human genomes in 40 hours. It is the only instrument in Southern Arizona with that capability and the first instrument of this kind at any university in the state, according to Lori Stratton, director of development at Steele Childrens Research Center.

She said that the generous support from Angel Charity and other community partners and individual donors is vital to the continued growth of Steele Center.

The laboratory space we have now was built in 1992 and it was built for the scientific needs 30 years ago. The evolution of science means that the needs in labs today are very different than they were three decades ago. We have different equipment and more technology and need different spaces. This gift and investment from Angel Charity will move us forward and allow us to fully utilize the capabilities of this new instrument, said Stratton.

Nguyen, a 10-year veteran of Angel Charity and Senior Vice President at National Bank of Arizona, said that Angel Charity is proud to invest in the community and provide a hand up for children in need in Pima County.
COLUMBIA, S.C.  The 12 U.S. soldiers died in a pine forest in South Carolina in 1780, their bodies hastily buried beneath a thin layer of soil as their comrades fled from the British who appeared ready to put a quick and brutal end to the American Experiment.

But this month, the carefully gathered and studied remains of the dozen unknown soldiers are getting a proper memorial and burial where they fell on the Camden battlefield. Its part of the ongoing 250th anniversary commemorations of the Revolutionary War, which historians hope will highlight history that unites instead of divides.

Our democracy is the oldest in the world  we dont always get it right, and we have fought amongst ourselves more than I care to think about. But today, we are the most powerful country in the world. This is what you paid for with your life, reads a letter from Air Force veteran Stacey Ferguson that was placed in the soldiers coffins in late March as she helped prepare the remains for reburial.

But the soldiers excavation and reburial is not only a memorial. It also illustrates what modern science can do.

Several of the fallen were teenagers, and one had a musket ball in his spine. Their names may soon be discovered through DNA testing and genealogy.

However, there are limits to what can be discovered. Time took its toll on the bodies. Bones that didnt decompose to dust were scattered by wild animals, souvenir hunters and a mid-1900s farmer growing watermelons. Some of the remains showed scars from plows or other equipment. Consequentially, a gap in a bone might be a wound from a musket ball or a bayonet  or it might not be.

For a lot of these people, we were not able to ascertain their exact cause of death. The skeletons are very fragmented, said Madeline Atwell, a deputy coroner and forensic anthropologist with the Richland County Coroners Office.

Atwells office spent several months helping other archeologists carefully dig up the soil at the site. When remains were found, they were draped in a U.S. flag and a veteran escorted them to a truck.

The remains have been X-rayed, tested and meticulously cataloged. They are now being prepared for a reburial ceremony worthy of what historians are calling Americas first heroes.

They are truly Americas first veterans. We have a responsibility to honor their sacrifice, said Doug Bostick, the CEO of the South Carolina Battleground Preservation Trust.

A huge ceremony is planned in South Carolina from April 20-22. The soldiers will be honored at the national cemetery at Columbias Fort Jackson Army basic training base before heading on a 20-mile procession to Camden. They will lie in state for two days before horse-drawn caissons carry them back to their resting places.

A similar project is underway in New Jersey, where the bodies of as many as 12 German soldiers, called Hessians, who fought for the British were found in a mass grave at the Red Bank battlefield. In-depth testing, including DNA, are taking place there as well.

History is an ongoing process. Its not like weve written the Battle of Red Bank and we know everything that happened, said Jennifer Janofsky, a public historian at Rowan University and director of Red Bank Battlefield Park. We have a better opportunity to tell a more complete story of these individuals.

Organizers of South Carolinas commemorations of the 250th anniversary of the Revolutionary War are remembering battles, but also want to emphasize American ideals of democracy and the countrys ability to change, mature and acknowledge where it has fallen short.

Ferguson thought about that as she worked on her note to the long-fallen soldiers. As director of operations for the Historic Camden Foundation, she has been there every step of the way in preserving and honoring them. Among the 14 excavated bodies are one Scottish Highlander and one soldier from North Carolina, both of whom were fighting for the British. They will be honored as well.

The U.S. soldiers appear to be from Maryland or Delaware. Researchers are collecting DNA from them, and people who have ancestors who died in the Revolutionary War volunteered to give samples in hopes the soldiers wont remain unknown forever. That work is still months or years away.

For now, Ferguson helped other archeologists and Richland County Coroners Office employees carefully place the remains into handmade longleaf pine coffins, built from 18th century designs, which will be sealed with nails a blacksmith made individually.

They sprinkled dirt from the site where each man was recovered into the coffin. They all signed Fergusons letter, in which the one-time Air Force officer told the soldiers they probably couldnt fathom the power and riches their country gained in the 250 years since they died.

As an officer, Ferguson said she felt a duty to take care of them like she did the men and women in her command.

You died a brave, yet horrible death far from home and loved ones. You were unceremoniously dumped into a shallow grave with so many more just like you. Now we will give you the heros farewell you deserve, Ferguson wrote. All I can say is thank you on behalf of a grateful nation.
Fighting is still raging in Sudan hours after an internationally brokered truce was supposed to have come into effect. Forces loyal to dueling generals battled for key locations in the capital late Tuesday and accused each other of violating the cease-fire. The humanitarian truce was the culmination of days of intense pressure by top diplomats on four continents and had raised hopes of sparing Africas third largest country from civil war. But each side still appears determined to vanquish the other, despite the suffering of millions of civilians trapped by the fighting. At least 185 people have been killed and 1,800 wounded in four days of fighting, according to the U.N., though the real toll is likely far higher.
PHOENIX  Parents wont be able to bring their loaded weapons onto school campuses, at least not while Katie Hobbs is Arizonas governor.

Nor will students get training on gun safety.

In a single veto letter Monday, the governor vetoed both measures saying they do nothing to prevent gun violence. And she said if the safety of school children is really a concern of lawmakers there are better ways to do that  ways the Republican-controlled Legislature has refused to consider.

Hobbs also vetoed two other measures.

One would have directed judges, when confronted with two conflicting interpretations of a state election law, to err on the side of which promotes more transparency.

This bill adds unnecessary language into statute and does not solve any of the real challenges facing election administration, the governor wrote of HB 2319. I look forward to working with the Legislature on bills to do that.

And even Rep. Alexander Kolodin, R-Scottsdale, who crafted the bill, acknowledged much of this wouldnt be necessary if lawmakers crafted clearer statutes.

Hobbs also rejected HB 2297 which would have said that prosecutors pursing cases of fraudulent schemes and artifices are not required to establish that all of the unlawful acts occurred within the state.

This bill will lead to confusion where none currently exits, Hobbs said in her veto message. Existing state law adequately outlines the jurisdictional issues addressed in this bill.

But the governor saved most of her comments for the two gun-related measures.

SB 1131, proposed by Sen. Janae Shamp, R-Surprise, sought to create an exception to existing laws that preclude loaded guns on school property. It would have allowed parents who have a state-issued permit to carry a concealed weapon to keep it with them if they also have a child at that school.

Shamp said that, if nothing else, it would keep parents rushing to the school from being charged with a felony simply because they forgot to first unload the weapon.

Anyway, she told colleagues, it is far safer to keep the gun loaded than risk accidents when unloading and reloading it.

HB 2332 was pushed by Rep. Selina Bliss, R-Scottsdale. It would have required public and charter schools to provide age-appropriate training in firearms safety for students in grades sixth through 12.

None of that would involve the actual instruction on how to operate weapons. Instead, it was promoted as teaching simple, easy-to-remember steps so individuals who receive the training know what to do if they ever come across a firearm.

Hobbs found neither plan acceptable.

Mandatory firearm safety training in schools is not the solution to gun violence prevention, the governor wrote. She said the requirement could have immediate and long-term impacts on the health and well-being of students, teachers and parents, though Hobbs did not spell out what those were.

Nor did she like Shamps proposal.

Allowing more guns on campus will not make a campus safer, she said. Then theres the fact that police officers, arriving at a school with an active-shooter situation, wont necessarily know who are the criminals who are armed and who are the parents.

Im focused on finding concrete solutions to gun violence prevention that protect Arizona families, including but not limited to, policy focused on trauma-informed emergency planning and safe, secure gun storage, the governor wrote.

And Hobbs said lawmakers did have a chance to consider such a measure.

She pointed to HB 2192 which would have made it illegal to keep a firearm or ammunition in any home unless they were in a securely locked box or the gun was equipped with a device device that makes it inoperable without a key or combination. The only exception would be if the owner was carrying the gun or it was within close proximity.

It is dubbed Christians Law, named after Christian Petillo who, while at a friends house in Queen Creek for a sleepover, was fatally shot. The death was ruled accidental.

House Speaker Ben Toma, R-Peoria, never even assigned the measure by Rep. Jennifer Longdon, D-Phoenix, for a committee for a hearing.

In fact, GOP leadership used a procedural motion to block a bid by Longdon, who is paralyzed from the waist down since a random drive-by shooting in 2004, to bring what is known as Christians Law to the full House and put all lawmakers on record. House Majority Leader Leo Biasiucci, R-Lake Havasu City, defended the maneuver.

At the end of the day, its the person behind the gun, he said in engineering the move to block a vote. And we should never forget that it (the Second Amendment) says shall not be infringed.
BOWDOIN, Maine (AP)  Four people were fatally shot at a house in Maine on Tuesday shortly before gunfire wounded three others on a busy highway, in a pair of crimes that are linked, authorities said. Hours later, a man was charged with murder.

Police closed a portion of the interstate highway and residents and businesses in the area were ordered to shelter in place for about 90 minutes before authorities determined there was no threat to the general public.

In Maine, police charged Joseph Eaton, 34, of Bowdoin, with four counts of murder Tuesday evening but declined to discuss a possible motive for the shootings or identify the shooting victims. Eaton was expected to appear in court later this week.

The crimes began in rural Bowdoin, where the bodies were found, and continued with gunfire 25 miles (40 kilometers) to the south on Interstate 295 in Yarmouth, police said. One of the three highway victims was critically wounded, police said.

Law enforcement officers, some carrying long rifles, could be seen canvassing areas near the highway after the shootings. At one point, heavily armed officers at an off-ramp peered inside the trunk of a car that had apparent bullet holes in the windshield. Police said a person of interest was detained, and witnesses saw one person in handcuffs.

In Bowdoin, a farming community with about 3,000 residents, yellow crime tape hung where the shootings took place, in a home flanked by woods at the end of a long, gravel driveway. About 10 marked and unmarked law enforcement vehicles and a crime scene van were parked outside, and investigators moved about the scene.

At one point, a woman spoke to police outside the house before dropping to her knees and sobbing. Later, hearses were seen leaving from the driveway.

The town of Bowdoin has no affiliation with Bowdoin College, which is located about 10 miles (16 kilometers) away, in the town of Brunswick.

Maine Gov. Janet Mills tweeted her concern for the families, friends and loved ones of those impacted by this tragedy. She said she was praying for the injured.

Like people across Maine, I am shocked and deeply saddened. Acts of violence like we experienced today shake our state and our communities to the core, she said.

In Yarmouth, traffic backed up on the interstate as police shut down the southbound lanes. The highway reopened later Tuesday, with the exception of one exit where the police were inspecting the car.

Employees at Water Treatment Equipment Inc., a business near the highway, locked the doors and pulled down the shades after being alerted to the lockdown, which lasted about an hour and a half, manager Kim Snyder said. Workers saw cars backing up on the highway, along with police cars, ambulances and fire trucks.

It definitely shifted the day, and the worry kicked in, she said. They hadnt caught the active shooter. We didnt know what was going on."

Lenora Felker, who works near the highway at Rosemont Market and Bakery, said she sensed something was afoot when people started streaming in, saying the highway was closed, followed by dozens of law enforcement officers who descended on the area.

Officers went business to business asking if they had seen anyone that was wet and muddy fleeing, Felker said. But she knew all the customers and didnt see anything unusual, she said.

Sharp reported from Portland. Associated Press photographer Robert Bukaty in Bowdoin and writers Michael Casey and Steve LeBlanc in Boston contributed to this report.
Mayor Karen Bass, a Democrat elected in November 2022 on a platform of addressing the Los Angeles homelessness epidemic, said on Monday, April 17, that she would propose allocating a "record" $1.3 billion in the next year to help the city's homeless population find permanent housing and access to necessary services.

The mayor's future budget might be utilized to acquire hotels or motels to turn into homes while the city searches its inventory for assets that could house homeless people.

These comments were made four months into the former congresswoman's first term in office, at her annual speech to the City Council on LA's status.

Help for the Homeless

According to Fox News, Mayor Bass noted that the budget would support drug misuse treatment beds for the unhoused, but she did not say how many. She claimed her hallmark program, Inside Safe, gives homeless individuals motel rooms and a road to permanent housing with support for over 1,000 registrants.

She said Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom had pledged 500 temporary housing units to the city, and the Biden administration has given the city and county over $200 million for homeless initiatives.

Bass' optimism is typical for a first-term mayor, but it masks mounting obstacles that might change her time in office.

In November 2022, Bass beat wealthy businessman Rick Caruso to become LA's first Black female mayor. She focused on ending homelessness, lowering crime, and building affordable homes for working families.

See Also: Chicago: Lori Lightfoot Claims Unfair Treatment in Election Because She's a 'Black Woman in America'

City's Homeless Expenditures

Since former Mayor Eric Garcetti approved a 2021 budget with almost $1 billion in homeless expenditures, the homeless population has grown. Bass' dilemma is visible in most neighborhoods: homeless individuals living in trash-strewn encampments or rusting RVs along roadways, beneath underpasses, and near highway exits.

Over 40,000 citywide homeless people have drug or alcohol addictions, and roughly a third have major mental problems. Every day, five homeless people die.

Concern About Potential Tax Revenue Reduction

Though economists disagree, AP News said others predict a recession that may cut municipal tax income at a time when Bass is increasing homeless expenditures.

City Controller Kenneth Mejia's report also noted the need to restore aging streets and sidewalks and raise retiree pension expenses, which currently consume fully 15% of the city's general fund budget.

Car thefts and shootings are on the rise as police manning has decreased. Bass warned that the number of police personnel might fall to below 9,000 - an average not seen since 2002.

Bass said her budget for the year starting July 1 calls for hundreds more cops, a recruiting push, and incentives. It also funds a team of social workers and clinical psychologists to respond to emergency calls without police officers.

See Also: George Santos Files Paperwork for Reelection Despite Facing a Slew of Federal, Local Investigations

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Lawmakers in North Dakotas House passed a bill Monday that would criminalize abortions after six weeks of gestation -- even in cases of rape or incest, the Bismarck Tribune reported.

The bill still requires approval from the Senate and governor to become law.

Opponents of the bill said six weeks is too early to ban abortions because many women don't know they are pregnant by that time. Supporters of the bill said passing it would further the state's tradition of protecting all life, including the unborn.

Republican Rep. Dan Ruby, of Minot, said in support of the bill on the House floor, We have a chance to clean up language in our law, make some improvements to it, adjust to it due to the nature of what we did before the overturning of Roe v. Wade to what is being done now."

Democratic Rep. Gretchen Dobervich, of Fargo, opposed the bill. The House panel had rejected her amendment to change the six weeks to 12 weeks for a woman who has been the victim of sexual violence in which a pregnancy results."

Last month, the North Dakota Supreme Court ruled that a state abortion ban will remain blocked while a lawsuit over its constitutionality proceeds.

Were going to send another message to the North Dakota Supreme Court. This is what this Legislature wants. We want pro-life in North Dakota, House Majority Leader Mike Lefor, a Republican of Dickinson, said Monday on the House floor in support of the bill.

The bill passed with a 76-14 vote, largely on party lines but with a few exceptions.

Democratic Rep. Alisa Mitskog, of Wahpeton, was the only person in her party to vote in favor of the bill. And three Republicans voted against it. They were Rep. Eric Murphy of Grand Forks, Rep. Shannon Roers Jones of Fargo and Rep. Steve Swiontek of Fargo.
Kansas City Star. April 13, 2023.

Editorial: Missouri and Kansas AGs want to block abortion pill  for democracy, says Kris Kobach

If in the near future the U.S. Supreme Court decides to ban the abortion pill, youll have Andrew Bailey and Kris Kobach to blame.

The two men  the attorneys general of Missouri and Kansas, respectively  both signed friend of the court briefs backing the Texas case that suspended the Food and Drug Administrations decades-old approval of the drug, named mifepristone. And in Kobachs case, the brief made a rather startling argument: The pill should be banned in defense of the democratic process.

Why? Because the FDAs decision allowing mifepristone to be sent and received through the mail permits women to circumvent the law in states that have prohibited abortion. The brief signed by Kobach and 20 other Republican attorneys general  18 of them men  said the Biden administration should never have allowed such a violation.

That argument takes a fair amount of chutzpah. Kobach, after all, represents a state where less than a year ago voters made overwhelmingly clear their desire to preserve abortion access. Kobach is doing his level best to contravene their wishes.

So much for the democratic process in Kansas.

A second brief, signed by Bailey and Missouri Solicitor General Joshua M. Divine, offered another brazen argument for banning the pill: to preserve the right of women to choose not to get an abortion.

The ready availability of abortions by mail means that abusive boyfriends or others will more easily be able to coerce women (by force, pressure, or deception) to obtain abortions, they wrote.

And in what can only be interpreted as a bit of high-profile legal trolling, Baileys office cited a PBS interview in which U.S. Rep. Cori Bush, a Missouri Democrat, said she had received a surgical abortion in which the providers continued with the procedure after she tried to halt it. That is disturbing  but it is also notable that Bush, a pro-choice firebrand, in February co-sponsored federal legislation to preserve access to abortion medication in states where abortion remains legal. Her horrible experience is an argument for more access to safe, professional, legal abortion  not against it.

We dont discount the possibility that women can sometimes be coerced into making unwanted life-altering decisions. But it is disingenuous at best  and outright misleading at worst  to suggest that the act of denying a choice to women is actually a means of preserving their choices.

And there is reason to believe that Missourians favor restoring access to abortion. (A 2019 trigger law banning abortion went into effect last year after the 6-3 conservative supermajority Supreme Court broke precedent and overturned Roe v. Wade.) A poll last August found that 58% of respondents want to allow abortions during the first eight weeks of pregnancy. That presumably includes medication abortions, which are responsible for more than half of all abortions today. Nationally, nearly two-thirds of Americans say banning medication abortions would hurt their families.

It is fairly clear, however, that Republican leaders in Missouri and Kansas dont much care what the majority of residents in their states might think about the topic. Kobach, remember, has already claimed one victory, warning big pharmacies like Walgreens and CVS against selling mifepristone in Kansas even before last weeks ruling.

But Bailey and Kobach arent the only offenders. The Kansas Legislature, after all, just passed a nonsense bill requiring doctors to inform patients about the false assertion that medication abortions can be reversed  one of several bills pushed by antiabortion groups despite last years vote. Missouri officials, meanwhile, have done their utmost to avoid a Kansas-style vote on the matter.

Topeka Capital-Journal. April 14, 2023.

Editorial: Almost 140 acres of Kansas native prairie, lake, cave and trails? Sign us up as fans.

Did you know theres a manmade lake in Kansas with clear blue water?

Did you know it could potentially become Kansas 29th state park?

The Topeka Capital-Journals Jason Tidd reports the proposed Lehigh Portland State Park would be on the site of a former cement plant and quarry near Iola, known locally as Elks Lake. The propertys nearly 360 acres contain a 138-acre lake, 300-foot-long cave, woodlands, native prairie and more than 2.5 miles of wide gravel trails and 12 miles of natural surface trails for mountain biking, trail running and nature hikes.

The House voted 114-9 and the Senate 35-5 to approve the park after bundling it into HB 2039, a bill on hunting and fishing licenses for disabled veterans. The bill is expected to go to Gov. Laura Kelly any day.

The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks estimates that it would need $50,000 for surveying and title work, plus $200,000 to develop a master plan and $5 million to $7 million for building design and construction. But it looks like that is possible. Two full-time positions would also be needed but it looks like they will be funded mostly through federal funding and park fees.

KDPW seems in favor of the park as well. Linda Lanterman, KDWP parks division director, said Lehigh Portland has a history worth preserving, a diverse landscape and ecosystem, and is a popular spot for bird watching and fishing.

The secretary, myself and my team went out there and took a look at the property and we hiked the trails, Lanterman said. When you come off the trail and you get on one of the cliffs and you come and see the beautiful crystal clear blue water  which Ive not seen in any of our state parks before  its just a gorgeous piece of property.

Wed like to see this land become a state park.

Thrive Allen County, a rural health advocacy organization, has been constructing the trails, which connect to the Southwind Rail Trail and Prairie Spirit State Park. Thrive has made a push to help this project along. We commend the powers that be for preserving the  in this case, manmade  beauty of Kansas.

While were always eager to support business and economic development, we also recognize the power of nature and the imperative in preserving the incredible diversity of our land in Kansas.

Lets go ahead and push this through. Weve got some hiking to do.

END
Kansas City Star. April 13, 2023.

Editorial: Missouri and Kansas AGs want to block abortion pill  for democracy, says Kris Kobach

If in the near future the U.S. Supreme Court decides to ban the abortion pill, youll have Andrew Bailey and Kris Kobach to blame.

The two men  the attorneys general of Missouri and Kansas, respectively  both signed friend of the court briefs backing the Texas case that suspended the Food and Drug Administrations decades-old approval of the drug, named mifepristone. And in Kobachs case, the brief made a rather startling argument: The pill should be banned in defense of the democratic process.

Why? Because the FDAs decision allowing mifepristone to be sent and received through the mail permits women to circumvent the law in states that have prohibited abortion. The brief signed by Kobach and 20 other Republican attorneys general  18 of them men  said the Biden administration should never have allowed such a violation.

That argument takes a fair amount of chutzpah. Kobach, after all, represents a state where less than a year ago voters made overwhelmingly clear their desire to preserve abortion access. Kobach is doing his level best to contravene their wishes.

So much for the democratic process in Kansas.

A second brief, signed by Bailey and Missouri Solicitor General Joshua M. Divine, offered another brazen argument for banning the pill: to preserve the right of women to choose not to get an abortion.

The ready availability of abortions by mail means that abusive boyfriends or others will more easily be able to coerce women (by force, pressure, or deception) to obtain abortions, they wrote.

And in what can only be interpreted as a bit of high-profile legal trolling, Baileys office cited a PBS interview in which U.S. Rep. Cori Bush, a Missouri Democrat, said she had received a surgical abortion in which the providers continued with the procedure after she tried to halt it. That is disturbing  but it is also notable that Bush, a pro-choice firebrand, in February co-sponsored federal legislation to preserve access to abortion medication in states where abortion remains legal. Her horrible experience is an argument for more access to safe, professional, legal abortion  not against it.

We dont discount the possibility that women can sometimes be coerced into making unwanted life-altering decisions. But it is disingenuous at best  and outright misleading at worst  to suggest that the act of denying a choice to women is actually a means of preserving their choices.

And there is reason to believe that Missourians favor restoring access to abortion. (A 2019 trigger law banning abortion went into effect last year after the 6-3 conservative supermajority Supreme Court broke precedent and overturned Roe v. Wade.) A poll last August found that 58% of respondents want to allow abortions during the first eight weeks of pregnancy. That presumably includes medication abortions, which are responsible for more than half of all abortions today. Nationally, nearly two-thirds of Americans say banning medication abortions would hurt their families.

It is fairly clear, however, that Republican leaders in Missouri and Kansas dont much care what the majority of residents in their states might think about the topic. Kobach, remember, has already claimed one victory, warning big pharmacies like Walgreens and CVS against selling mifepristone in Kansas even before last weeks ruling.

But Bailey and Kobach arent the only offenders. The Kansas Legislature, after all, just passed a nonsense bill requiring doctors to inform patients about the false assertion that medication abortions can be reversed  one of several bills pushed by antiabortion groups despite last years vote. Missouri officials, meanwhile, have done their utmost to avoid a Kansas-style vote on the matter.

St. Louis Post-Dispatch. April 13, 2023.

Editorial: Mental health is Parsons mantra, but it wont stop mass shootings

After the school shooting in St. Louis last October, Missouri Gov. Mike Parson responded predictably, insisting that greater attention to mental health, not more gun restrictions, was the solution. Its just really unfortunate that everyone wants to go to the political point of the guns when you have a tragedy like this, Parson said after a gun-wielding 19-year-old terrorized teachers and students at Central Visual and Performing Arts High School. The gunmans mother had pleaded with police to seize his semiautomatic rifle, noting the young mans mental illness. But police were powerless to intervene because Parson and the Legislature had refused to impose red-flag restrictions on gun ownership.

Parson remains convinced that mental health is the answer. But when it comes to his and Missouri Republican lawmakers record of actually funding and supporting the mental health sectors that address gun violence  or proving that such a strategy actually works  hed be better off offering thoughts and prayers as the solution.

If serious mental illnesses suddenly disappeared, violence would decrease by only about 4%, John Rozel and Jeffrey Swanson wrote in a January opinion piece for the American Association of Medical Colleges. More than 90% of violent incidents, including homicides, would still occur.

They added that even mass shooters, who might seem most likely to be driven by mental illness, dont necessarily suffer from major psychiatric disorders. FBI statistics indicate that only 25% of such assailants had a diagnosed mental illness, and fewer than 5% of mass shooters had a record of a gun-disqualifying mental health adjudication, such as an involuntary commitment to a mental health facility.

Theres almost no kind of behavior rooted in mental illness in Missouri that would constitute gun-disqualifying under current law. Parson is correct when it comes to using mental-health therapy to prevent suicide by firearm, which accounts for most gun-homicide deaths. But national statistics dont support his position when it comes to mass shootings.

When the Missouri Department of Mental Health asked the Legislature in January for a $300 million increase in social-services funding, lawmakers almost laughed officials out of the room. When the department last year warned of severe understaffing due to low pay, the states answer was to seek federal help through then-Sen. Roy Blunt rather than solve the problem using billions of dollars in surplus state funds.

One study ranks Missouri among the five lowest states in the country for the amount of funding devoted to therapy, although it ranks 26th in the country for overall per-capita spending on mental health.

Research consistently shows that widespread gun availability, not mental illness, is the culprit. It seems so obvious that the solution is rooted in red-flag laws, universal background checks and passing laws to keep guns out of minors hands. Mental-health fig leaves have proven excellent at preventing serious discussion of gun-violence solutions, but theyre lousy at stopping bullets.

Jefferson City News Tribune. April 12, 2023.

Editorial: Stay on trail, Missouri

For a second year, hopes of creating a Rock Island Trail across Missouri for cyclists and hikers may have hit an impassable obstacle.

The trail has hit some rocky patches to this point, and it faces a tough funding hill that would leave any cyclist or hiker breathless.

The state is missing an opportunity to inject a little energy into the trail, a project supporters hope would benefit the economies of those small towns along that corridor, as well as tourism across the state.

The Rock Island Trail is proposed to be 144 miles long, stretching across Missouri from Kansas City to the Ozarks, using a former rail bed obtained by the state in 2021. The corridor passes through several Mid-Missouri cities, such as Versailles, Eldon, Eugene, Meta, Argyle, Freeburg, Belle and Bland.

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR) accepted ownership of the corridor in December 2021 after the Missouri Central Railroad Company, a subsidiary of Ameren Missouri, donated its right, title and interest in the corridor to to the state.

For years, trail proponents have lobbied for the state to acquire the rail corridor, seeing it as a complement to the Katy Trail State Park.

Construction of the 240-mile-long Katy Trail began in 1987, and the first section of the recreational pathway was opened three years later in Rocheport. Similar to the development and construction of the Katy Trail, the Rock Island Corridor would be developed in different sections over several years.

Last year, Gov. Mike Parson earmarked $69 million in the fiscal year 2023 budget to begin construction on about half of the Rock Island Trail.

By investing $69 million to start construction on the Rock Island Trail, we can help establish the largest circular rail-to-trail network in the United States and a world-class, one of-a-kind destination for travelers coming to Missouri... while also supporting businesses and creating jobs, Parson said in his 2022 State of the State address.

That funding would have made improvements to about 70 miles of the trail between Eugene and Beaufort. But the funding was ultimately cut in the final budget approved by the Senate.

With a new year came new hope. Unfortunately, the hope was short-lived.

This week, Parson said he hasnt heard of any movement on the trail this legislative session.

Asked if he knew of any legislators advocating for it, Parson said, I just really havent. I mean, weve got a lot going on working on the infrastructure and workforce development pieces. I just havent heard much about it this year.

He said he doesnt know if it will be included in the budget this year.

Based on the testimony of the Office of Administration budget director, it likely wont.

Were still hoping to hear conversations about it (the trail), budget director Dan Haug told a House budget committee last week. But at this point, we dont see a clear path forward. We just didnt feel comfortable putting it in this budget.

Some landowners and businesses have raised concerns about the impact of the trail on property rights. But a February ruling from the U.S. Court of Appeals in February dictated that landowners along the proposed trail should be compensated for the use of the former railroad easement land.

The decision stated the railroad ceased operations decades ago, and the rails and ties were removed. Because of this, the court decided, there is no potential for future railroad use and the landowners should receive just compensation for the use of the land.

So the compensation of the landowners has been addressed.

And other funding efforts have been under way to keep the trail campaign going.

People in communities along the trail, including Owensville and Eldon, have gotten grant funding at the local level to develop their sections of the trail. DNR also recently received a $2.7 million grant to develop the trail.

But success of the project will largely fall to participation of the state.

A common refrain this legislative season has been to dip into the $6 billion surplus only for transformational projects that are an investment in the states future.

The trail could be such a transformational project, and a measured investment by the state could play a pivotal role in having an impact on the lives of those along the trail as well as the state.

Stay on the trail, Missouri.

END
MADISON, Wis. (AP)  Wisconsins state archaeologist has died after being found unresponsive during a training dive in a Madison lake.

Rescuers pulled 63-year-old James Skibo from Lake Mendota on Friday morning, the Wisconsin State Journal reported.

Wisconsin Historical Society Director and CEO Christian Overland said Skibo was with two other divers training for the upcoming season. The Dane County Medical Examiners Office said the cause of death is still under investigation.

Skibo was named state archaeologist in 2021. He recovered a 1,200-year-old canoe in Lake Mendota in June 2021 and a 3,000-year-old canoe in the same lake this past September.

The Wisconsin Historical Society said on its Facebook page that Skibo was looking forward to more dives in Lake Mendota this spring to continuing exploring the canoe sites.

Skibo previously worked as chair of the anthropology department at Illinois State University. He authored and edited 11 books and reviewed dozens of articles on pottery and the archaeology of the Great Lakes.

He was a mentor but also a great learner, Overland said. And what I mean by a great learner is that he was an explorer. He was always thinking about what people could learn from history, not just reading it in books but bringing it to people.
The Oklahoma Senates and House of Representatives differing views of public education spending entered the formal negotiations stage on Monday with the Houses rejection of Senate amendments to House Bills 2775 and 1935.

The procedural move, which was expected, moves discussions to a conference committee of House and Senate members looking for a way to reconcile what seem to be considerable differences between the two chambers.

The House is prepared to assign conferees and get to work immediately as we strive to provide the citizens of Oklahoma with an education plan that works for every student, every parent, every teacher and every school in the state, Speaker Charles McCall, R-Atoka, said in a written statement Monday afternoon.

A spokesman for Senate President Pro Tem Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City, said there are active discussions and directed reporters to Treats comments at a Thursday press conference.

I dont like to put odds on these things, Treat said then. I dont feel real hopeful this week based on progress, but were in April.  Well have a breakthrough, hopefully, if all parties want to get to the goals they say they do.

I know were committed to giving parents more choice and to infusing a large amount of money into the public school system. Were operating in good faith and we hope the others are as well.

The House and Senate agree that common education should get a boost in appropriations of around $600 million this year, of which a large share would go for tax credits to help parents pay for private schools or homeschooling.

The House wants the tax credits available to everyone, while the Senate wants them limited to households with annual income of less than $200,000.

Another major disagreement is over the distribution of funds to school districts. The Senate wants to send all new money through the existing state aid formula, while the House wants a disproportionate share to go to smaller districts.

There are also disagreements over allocating raises for teachers and support personnel.

Lawmakers have a little over a month to work out a compromise ahead of the constitutionally mandated final adjournment on the last Friday of May.

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Turkey Mountain burned last week, and that was a good thing.

Wednesdays controlled burn over 12 to 14 acres of the approximately 600-acre urban wilderness area was long overdue.

We hope to do 10 acres here, 10 acres there, three or four times a year to be able to get through everything, said River Parks Authoritys Ryan Howell. Because in the past in this region, a fire would have occurred every seven to 10 years naturally, so we are trying to mimic that fire regime that naturally occurred.

River Parks Authority, which owns and manages the recreation area, had for years been looking to do controlled burns on the land but never had the resources.

That changed with the creation of the Turkey Mountain Master Plan, which recommends, among other things, that controlled burns become a regular tool for the upkeep and maintenance of the natural habitat. Funding for Wednesdays burn was provided through a federal grant.

When the winds werent too strong and the humidity was just right, Oklahoma Forestry Services workers armed with drip torches used a mix of gasoline and diesel fuel to slowly set fire to land directly north of the main trail head.

The flames never rose higher than 2 to 3 feet, Howell said, but that was the plan all along.

These very small fires allow us to not smoke anybody out, essentially, said Howell, who is managing the master plan improvements on Turkey Mountain. So most folks, other than visually seeing the smoke from Turkey Mountain, werent able to smell it or  be impacted.

Even our next-door neighbors, like right next door, you couldnt tell when we were burning.

What remains standing relatively unscathed are large native oak, hickory and ash trees; gone are the pesky privets, eastern red cedars and other invasive plants that have been robbing the native species of water, soil nutrients and sunlight for decades.

Right now, a lot of our oaks and our native species, they havent sprouted a new generation in like 25 years, because the privet has been so invasive. And so we literally have a 25-year gap in our tree stand, Howell said.

In about two or three months, you wont even see the black anymore, because all of this ash has released a lot of carbon and nitrogen into the soil, and so it actually acts as a fertilizer for all of the native species.

In a few months' time all of this black will be a carpet of green natives, hopefully mostly green natives.

Removing the underbrush not only helps keep the native growth healthier, Howell said, but it removes the ladder fuel that serves to accelerate wildfires.

If you think about a fire creeping along the ground, it is not able to carry through these woods anymore, Howell said.

The location of Turkey Mountains first controlled burn was chosen in part to showcase the benefits the hazard mitigation tool will have on the land and to make the public aware that more are coming, Howell said.

It also provided several easily accessible areas from which firefighters, Forestry Services workers and police officers could monitor and contain the blaze.

Fire isnt the only method being used to ensure that Turkey Mountains natural habitat remains healthy and safe. The understory growth on 80 acres of land  40 acres along the southern border along 71st Street and 40 acres along the northern border near Mooser Creek and Interstate 44  is being removed with machines.

The process is called forest mastication.

They go in with a machine and basically turn a lot of the understory into mulch, Howell said.

The controlled burn comes as River Parks continues to work on another key element of the Turkey Mountain Master Plan  the addition of 25 to 30 miles of new or reconstructed trails.

Fourteen miles of the new trail system have been completed; 12 miles are hiking and biking trails that are accessible to any skill level, and 2 miles of trail are for downhill mountain biking only.

The goal is to have all of the trails completed in 2026, Howell said.
April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month  a time to recognize the importance of our community working together to prevent child abuse. Ginnie Graham talks with Maura Guten, president and CEO of the Child Abuse Network in Tulsa, about how Oklahomans can protect our most valuable and vulnerable population.

People with a reason to believe that a child under 18 is a victim of abuse or neglect are required per the Oklahoma Statutes 10A O.S.  1-2-101  to promptly report it to the Oklahoma Department of Human Services Abuse and Neglect Hotline at 1-800-522-3511.

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Vietnam plans to convert 100 percent of its buses and taxis from petrol-powered to electric vehicles (EVs) within the next three decades to help with environmental protection. Starting 2025, all replacement buses must be electric-powered as per a prime minister decision on green energy transition and carbon and methane emission reduction in the transport industry. From 2030, all replacement taxis will have to be electric automobiles. First electric taxi service Green and Smart Mobility Joint Stock Company (GSM) -- the first taxi service supplier using electric cars in Vietnam -- launched its Green SM taxi service in Hanoi on April 14. GSM CEO Nguyen Van Thanh said the company will operate the service in at least five major localities in Vietnam and it is in talks with a number of partners in Southeast Asia to expand its fleet to about 10,000 electric cabs. In the first phase of operation, Green SM will put 500 GreenCars and 100 LuxuryCars into service in Hanoi, using the VF 5 Plus model. Thanh expects the introduction of Green SM will improve the service quality of the entire taxi industry, similar to the positive impact that the VinBus electric bus system has made in the public bus sector. We will raise the service quality to the highest level so that other firms will have to improve their service to compete, said Thanh. Thanh guaranteed that Green SM will offer competitive fares in the first years. A GreenCar ride costs customers VND20,000 (US$0.85) for the first kilometer. For the next 24 kilometers, the fare stands at VND14,000 ($0.6) per kilometer for the use of the VF 5 Plus car and VND15,500 ($0.7) per kilometer for the VF e34 vehicle. The respective fares are VND12,000 ($0.51) and VND12,500 ($0.53) each kilometer for the rest of the drive. The LuxuryCar service will charge customers a fixed VND21,000 ($0.9) a kilometer for the entire drive. At the opening ceremony of Green SM on April 14, Nguyen Manh Quyen, deputy chairman of the Peoples Committee of Hanoi, hailed the implementation of electric taxi services in Hanoi as contributing to fulfilling Vietnams commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Electric taxis are one of the advanced solutions, bringing many benefits to the community, contributing to reducing air and noise pollution, while saving energy and reducing costs for users, Quyen said. Inevitable trend Nguyen Cong Hung, chairman of the Hanoi Taxi Association, assessed that environmentally-friendly electric cars will become an inevitable trend, given the increasingly expensive petrol. The Hanoi Taxi Association found in its research that electric cars both minimize the negative environmental impacts and have advantages over petrol and diesel cars regarding maintenance and engine noise. Therefore, using electric cars will help taxi businesses save a large amount of operating cost. However, there are two major barriers to the transition to electric taxis -- the lack of charging infrastructure and high investments. An electric taxi needs to be charged many times a day, considering its 24/7 operation, while the initial purchase cost is 1.5 to three times higher than a conventional car. The association urged the government to create preferential mechanisms and policies to encourage the use of electric taxis. Subsidy needed A leader of Hanoi Transport Corporation (Transerco) said that replacing diesel buses with electric ones is not difficult, but budgets will be a major obstacle. Currently, each bus in the VinBus fleet operating in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City costs about VND7 billion ($298,000). In its 10-year life cycle, the bus will need to have its battery replaced once, costing about VND2 billion ($85,143), increasing the total required budget to VND9 billion ($383,142) per bus. For comparison, a diesel bus with equivalent capacity costs just around VND3 billion ($127,714) for everything, including maintenance and repair expenses in the same 10-year life cycle. Many countries around the world have subsidized car purchase prices for bus operators and bus manufacturers as buses remain a low-profit public utility service. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!

Vietnam plans to convert 100 percent of its buses and taxis from petrol-powered to electric vehicles (EVs) within the next three decades to help with environmental protection.

Starting 2025, all replacement buses must be electric-powered as per a prime minister decision on green energy transition and carbon and methane emission reduction in the transport industry.

From 2030, all replacement taxis will have to be electric automobiles.

First electric taxi service

Green and Smart Mobility Joint Stock Company (GSM) -- the first taxi service supplier using electric cars in Vietnam -- launched its Green SM taxi service in Hanoi on April 14.

GSM CEO Nguyen Van Thanh said the company will operate the service in at least five major localities in Vietnam and it is in talks with a number of partners in Southeast Asia to expand its fleet to about 10,000 electric cabs.

In the first phase of operation, Green SM will put 500 GreenCars and 100 LuxuryCars into service in Hanoi, using the VF 5 Plus model.

Thanh expects the introduction of Green SM will improve the service quality of the entire taxi industry, similar to the positive impact that the VinBus electric bus system has made in the public bus sector.

We will raise the service quality to the highest level so that other firms will have to improve their service to compete, said Thanh.

Thanh guaranteed that Green SM will offer competitive fares in the first years.

A GreenCar ride costs customers VND20,000 (US$0.85) for the first kilometer.

For the next 24 kilometers, the fare stands at VND14,000 ($0.6) per kilometer for the use of the VF 5 Plus car and VND15,500 ($0.7) per kilometer for the VF e34 vehicle.

The respective fares are VND12,000 ($0.51) and VND12,500 ($0.53) each kilometer for the rest of the drive.

The LuxuryCar service will charge customers a fixed VND21,000 ($0.9) a kilometer for the entire drive.

At the opening ceremony of Green SM on April 14, Nguyen Manh Quyen, deputy chairman of the Peoples Committee of Hanoi, hailed the implementation of electric taxi services in Hanoi as contributing to fulfilling Vietnams commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Electric taxis are one of the advanced solutions, bringing many benefits to the community, contributing to reducing air and noise pollution, while saving energy and reducing costs for users, Quyen said.

Inevitable trend

Nguyen Cong Hung, chairman of the Hanoi Taxi Association, assessed that environmentally-friendly electric cars will become an inevitable trend, given the increasingly expensive petrol.

The Hanoi Taxi Association found in its research that electric cars both minimize the negative environmental impacts and have advantages over petrol and diesel cars regarding maintenance and engine noise.

Therefore, using electric cars will help taxi businesses save a large amount of operating cost.

However, there are two major barriers to the transition to electric taxis -- the lack of charging infrastructure and high investments.

An electric taxi needs to be charged many times a day, considering its 24/7 operation, while the initial purchase cost is 1.5 to three times higher than a conventional car.

The association urged the government to create preferential mechanisms and policies to encourage the use of electric taxis.

Subsidy needed

A leader of Hanoi Transport Corporation (Transerco) said that replacing diesel buses with electric ones is not difficult, but budgets will be a major obstacle.

Currently, each bus in the VinBus fleet operating in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City costs about VND7 billion ($298,000).

In its 10-year life cycle, the bus will need to have its battery replaced once, costing about VND2 billion ($85,143), increasing the total required budget to VND9 billion ($383,142) per bus.

For comparison, a diesel bus with equivalent capacity costs just around VND3 billion ($127,714) for everything, including maintenance and repair expenses in the same 10-year life cycle.

Many countries around the world have subsidized car purchase prices for bus operators and bus manufacturers as buses remain a low-profit public utility service.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
Austrias Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg received a welcome from Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son in Hanoi on Monday. This is his first trip to Vietnam and the first visit to the Southeast Asian nation by an Austrian foreign minister in more than 50 years. His three-day Vietnam visit was made at the invitation of Minister Son. The Vietnamese government leader expected Austria to facilitate Vietnams exports such as electronics, textiles and garments, footwear, and farm produce during a reception for the top Austrian official. Besides, the prime minister proposed the two nations boost bilateral cooperation in various fields, including science-technology, infrastructure, labor, training, digitalization, circular economy, and green transition. Vietnam and Austria have much potential to expand partnership in culture-art-music exchange and tourism as the two nations have a long-lasting history and a wide diversity of cultural traditions, said PM Chinh. Furthermore, the prime minister proposed the Austrian government urge the Austrian parliament to ratify the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA) and ask the European Commission to soon remove the yellow card on Vietnamese seafood exports. The yellow card is a kind of warning issued by the European Commission to countries involved in illegal unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing. Austrian enterprises have shown their interest in cooperation with Vietnamese partners, said Schallenberg. As such, he said that the two countries should foster the partnership in the labor field via the agreements between the two governments and universities. A photo of talks between Vietnamese Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son and his Austrian counterpart Alexander Schallenberg. Photo: VGP First visit to Vietnam by an Austrian foreign minister in 50 years Speaking at a talk with Vietnamese Foreign Minister Son, the Austrian official said that Austria expected to enhance relations with Vietnam and considered Vietnam its crucial trade partner in Southeast Asia. Austria will consider the proposal from the Vietnamese government to soon ratify the EVIPA and throw its support behind the removal of the yellow card on Vietnams seafood exports, said Schallenberg. Vietnam and Austria established diplomatic ties in 1972. This is the first visit to Vietnam by an Austrian foreign minister in 50 years, according to Vietnamese Ambassador to Austria Nguyen Trung Kien. This is also the most important high-ranking visit since Austrian President Heinz Fischer visited Vietnam in 2012. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!

Austrias Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg received a welcome from Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son in Hanoi on Monday.

This is his first trip to Vietnam and the first visit to the Southeast Asian nation by an Austrian foreign minister in more than 50 years.

His three-day Vietnam visit was made at the invitation of Minister Son.

The Vietnamese government leader expected Austria to facilitate Vietnams exports such as electronics, textiles and garments, footwear, and farm produce during a reception for the top Austrian official.

Besides, the prime minister proposed the two nations boost bilateral cooperation in various fields, including science-technology, infrastructure, labor, training, digitalization, circular economy, and green transition.

Vietnam and Austria have much potential to expand partnership in culture-art-music exchange and tourism as the two nations have a long-lasting history and a wide diversity of cultural traditions, said PM Chinh.

Furthermore, the prime minister proposed the Austrian government urge the Austrian parliament to ratify the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA) and ask the European Commission to soon remove the yellow card on Vietnamese seafood exports.

The yellow card is a kind of warning issued by the European Commission to countries involved in illegal unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing.

Austrian enterprises have shown their interest in cooperation with Vietnamese partners, said Schallenberg.

As such, he said that the two countries should foster the partnership in the labor field via the agreements between the two governments and universities.

A photo of talks between Vietnamese Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son and his Austrian counterpart Alexander Schallenberg. Photo: VGP

First visit to Vietnam by an Austrian foreign minister in 50 years

Speaking at a talk with Vietnamese Foreign Minister Son, the Austrian official said that Austria expected to enhance relations with Vietnam and considered Vietnam its crucial trade partner in Southeast Asia.

Austria will consider the proposal from the Vietnamese government to soon ratify the EVIPA and throw its support behind the removal of the yellow card on Vietnams seafood exports, said Schallenberg.

Vietnam and Austria established diplomatic ties in 1972. This is the first visit to Vietnam by an Austrian foreign minister in 50 years, according to Vietnamese Ambassador to Austria Nguyen Trung Kien.

This is also the most important high-ranking visit since Austrian President Heinz Fischer visited Vietnam in 2012.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
Vietnam's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Quang Hieu has been named Vietnamese ambassador to Japan for the 2023-26 tenure. Vietnamese State President Vo Van Thuong handed over the appointment decision to Deputy Foreign Minister Hieu on Tuesday. Speaking at the appointment ceremony, Hieu said that he was honored to be the first ambassador to receive an appointment decision signed by President Thuong since the latter took office in early March this year. The appointment marks 50 years of Vietnam-Japan diplomatic ties and nearly 10 years of the two nations in-depth strategic partnership for peace and prosperity in Asia, Hieu stated. Ambassador Hieu said that he would strive to contribute to the growth of the Vietnam-Japan relations during his tenure. Japan is one of Vietnams key partners, and their bilateral ties have grown strongly since 1973. Meanwhile, Vietnam is Japans biggest labor source market. Pham Quang Hieu, a 48-year-old resident of Hanoi, is a professional diplomat. He held several posts associated with the international law, multilateral diplomacy, sectoral construction, and personnel organization fields. He was posted as Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chairman of the State Committee for Overseas Vietnamese Affairs in May 2021. On Tuesday, President Thuong also received the ambassadors of Chile, Sri Lanka, and the United Arab Emirates. They came to show their credentials that mark their official tenure in Vietnam. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!

Vietnam's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Quang Hieu has been named Vietnamese ambassador to Japan for the 2023-26 tenure.

Vietnamese State President Vo Van Thuong handed over the appointment decision to Deputy Foreign Minister Hieu on Tuesday.

Speaking at the appointment ceremony, Hieu said that he was honored to be the first ambassador to receive an appointment decision signed by President Thuong since the latter took office in early March this year.

The appointment marks 50 years of Vietnam-Japan diplomatic ties and nearly 10 years of the two nations in-depth strategic partnership for peace and prosperity in Asia, Hieu stated.

Ambassador Hieu said that he would strive to contribute to the growth of the Vietnam-Japan relations during his tenure.

Japan is one of Vietnams key partners, and their bilateral ties have grown strongly since 1973.

Meanwhile, Vietnam is Japans biggest labor source market.

Pham Quang Hieu, a 48-year-old resident of Hanoi, is a professional diplomat.

He held several posts associated with the international law, multilateral diplomacy, sectoral construction, and personnel organization fields.

He was posted as Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chairman of the State Committee for Overseas Vietnamese Affairs in May 2021.

On Tuesday, President Thuong also received the ambassadors of Chile, Sri Lanka, and the United Arab Emirates.

They came to show their credentials that mark their official tenure in Vietnam.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
A large "mysterious spiral" suddenly appeared in the sky above Alaska over the weekend, baffling some experienced aurora viewers and photographers who had been there before.

Todd Salat, known as "The Aurora Hunter," has been capturing images of the northern lights for years. However, in the early hours of the morning, he witnessed something new - an "illuminating gyre in the sky" passing over Donnelly Dome near Delta Junction, southeast of Fairbanks, Alaska, away from city lights, per CBS News.

The enigmatic object, which he captured on camera, seemed to be a massive, dimly-lit spiral galaxy floating just over a mountain amid emerald auroras.

While seeing the lights from the state's northwest, Elizabeth Withnall also shared pictures of the bizarre sight she saw, per UPI.

Read Also: Elon Musk Secretly Launches AI Startup

Expert Says Alaska Mysterious Spiral Object is Not UFO

Don Hampton, optical science manager at the University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute, clarified that the incident was related to a flying object but not a UFO.

He explained that he had personally witnessed fuel being released from a rocket about three times before. He said that when rockets release fuel at high altitudes, it turns into ice. If it happens to be in sunlight when you're in darkness on the ground, you can see it as a big, sometimes "swirly" cloud, but "it's not a galaxy."

According to Hampton, the spiral was "simply water vapor reflecting sunlight.

On Friday evening, the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launched from the Californian Vandenberg Space Force Base, per The Daily Mail.

A huge portion of Alaska could see it since it was a polar launch.

The Falcon 9 was carrying 51 satellites, all of which were part of the Transporter-7 mission.

Related Article: NASA's Dead Spacecraft Heads Directly Toward Earth

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Vietnams State President Vo Van Thuong hosted a reception on Monday afternoon for ambassadors of ASEAN member states who came to send their congratulations and best wishes on the election and inauguration of Thuong as the new head of state. Thuong was sworn in as state president in March. Speaking at the event, Denny Abdi, Ambassador of Indonesia to Vietnam, stated that Vietnam has played a crucial role over the past 28 years in consolidating the solidarity and centrality of ASEAN and in building ASEAN Community Vision after 2025. Vietnams GDP growth rate of 8.02 percent in 2022 will add the impetus toward regional economic growth, the Indonesian diplomat said. The Indonesian ambassador pledged that ASEAN ambassadors will offer their active support and make enormous contributions to efforts to bolster the relations between Vietnam and ASEAN member states. He added that under the sound leadership of the Vietnamese state president, the friendship and partnerships between Vietnam and other ASEAN nations will advance further, contributing to efforts to maintain peace, security, and stability in the region. Vietnam attaches great importance to Vietnam-ASEAN relations Addressing the reception, President Thuong expressed his thanks to the ASEAN ambassadors. The Vietnamese head of state hailed the 2023 theme of ASEAN, which is 'ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth.' He affirmed that Vietnam will accompany Indonesia as the Chair of ASEAN in 2023 and other ASEAN member states in achieving development in peace, prosperity, and harmony. He added that ASEAN holds a key position and is an integral part of Vietnams foreign policy. Vietnam has always attached great importance to its relations with Southeast Asian neighbors, he said. Vietnam and neighboring Southeast Asian countries have been working closely in all important fields and they will expand into new areas. The state leader expects that the ASEAN ambassadors would serve as crucial bridges and contribute more to boosting the friendship and cooperation ties between Vietnam and ASEAN member states. On the occasion of the New Year of Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, Thailand and the Ramadan in Muslim nations, President Thuong extended his best wishes to the leaders and people of these countries. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!

Vietnams State President Vo Van Thuong hosted a reception on Monday afternoon for ambassadors of ASEAN member states who came to send their congratulations and best wishes on the election and inauguration of Thuong as the new head of state.

Thuong was sworn in as state president in March.

Speaking at the event, Denny Abdi, Ambassador of Indonesia to Vietnam, stated that Vietnam has played a crucial role over the past 28 years in consolidating the solidarity and centrality of ASEAN and in building ASEAN Community Vision after 2025.

Vietnams GDP growth rate of 8.02 percent in 2022 will add the impetus toward regional economic growth, the Indonesian diplomat said.

The Indonesian ambassador pledged that ASEAN ambassadors will offer their active support and make enormous contributions to efforts to bolster the relations between Vietnam and ASEAN member states.

He added that under the sound leadership of the Vietnamese state president, the friendship and partnerships between Vietnam and other ASEAN nations will advance further, contributing to efforts to maintain peace, security, and stability in the region.

Vietnam attaches great importance to Vietnam-ASEAN relations

Addressing the reception, President Thuong expressed his thanks to the ASEAN ambassadors.

The Vietnamese head of state hailed the 2023 theme of ASEAN, which is 'ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth.'

He affirmed that Vietnam will accompany Indonesia as the Chair of ASEAN in 2023 and other ASEAN member states in achieving development in peace, prosperity, and harmony.

He added that ASEAN holds a key position and is an integral part of Vietnams foreign policy.

Vietnam has always attached great importance to its relations with Southeast Asian neighbors, he said.

Vietnam and neighboring Southeast Asian countries have been working closely in all important fields and they will expand into new areas.

The state leader expects that the ASEAN ambassadors would serve as crucial bridges and contribute more to boosting the friendship and cooperation ties between Vietnam and ASEAN member states.

On the occasion of the New Year of Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, Thailand and the Ramadan in Muslim nations, President Thuong extended his best wishes to the leaders and people of these countries.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
What you need to know today in Vietnam: Politics -- Prime Minister of the Czech Republic Petr Fiala will pay an official visit to Vietnam from Thursday to Saturday at the invitation of Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. -- Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh welcomed the first visit to Vietnam by Austrian Federal Minister for European and International Affairs Alexander Schallenberg during a reception for the latter in Hanoi on Monday. This is the first visit to Vietnam by an Austrian federal minister for European and international affairs after 50 years. -- Vietnamese State President Vo Van Thuong hosted a reception in Hanoi on Monday for ASEAN ambassadors who came to congratulate him on being elected as the Vietnamese head of state, the Vietnam News Agency reported. Society -- The expected completion of Ho Chi Minh Citys second metro line project has been delayed to 2030 from 2026, according to a decision signed by Deputy Prime Minister Tran Luu Quang. The route linking Ben Thanh Market in District 1 and Tham Luong Depot in District 12 was kicked off in 2010 and has been executed at a snails pace. -- Police in the Central Highlands province of Dak Lak on Monday raided 12 branches of the F88 pawnshop chain in the province to assess their compliance with laws on business operations. Similar checks were earlier conducted in Ho Chi Minh City, central Da Nang City and Quang Nam Province, and southern Can Tho City and Tien Giang Province, among others. -- The principal of an elementary and middle school in Hoa Binh Province, northern Vietnam has been arrested for sexually harassing two 15-year-old students at his office in school time. -- Authorities in Son Tra District of Da Nang City on Monday began dismantling 58 illegally-built business establishments on Son Tra Peninsula in the district. -- The Department of Natural Resources and Environment of Dong Nai Province, a neighbor of Ho Chi Minh City, has launched inspections into the environmental protection at over 9,800 livestock facilities in the province. The inspections will last until July 15. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!

What you need to know today in Vietnam:

Politics

-- Prime Minister of the Czech Republic Petr Fiala will pay an official visit to Vietnam from Thursday to Saturday at the invitation of Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

-- Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh welcomed the first visit to Vietnam by Austrian Federal Minister for European and International Affairs Alexander Schallenberg during a reception for the latter in Hanoi on Monday. This is the first visit to Vietnam by an Austrian federal minister for European and international affairs after 50 years.

-- Vietnamese State President Vo Van Thuong hosted a reception in Hanoi on Monday for ASEAN ambassadors who came to congratulate him on being elected as the Vietnamese head of state, the Vietnam News Agency reported.

Society

-- The expected completion of Ho Chi Minh Citys second metro line project has been delayed to 2030 from 2026, according to a decision signed by Deputy Prime Minister Tran Luu Quang. The route linking Ben Thanh Market in District 1 and Tham Luong Depot in District 12 was kicked off in 2010 and has been executed at a snails pace.

-- Police in the Central Highlands province of Dak Lak on Monday raided 12 branches of the F88 pawnshop chain in the province to assess their compliance with laws on business operations. Similar checks were earlier conducted in Ho Chi Minh City, central Da Nang City and Quang Nam Province, and southern Can Tho City and Tien Giang Province, among others.

-- The principal of an elementary and middle school in Hoa Binh Province, northern Vietnam has been arrested for sexually harassing two 15-year-old students at his office in school time.

-- Authorities in Son Tra District of Da Nang City on Monday began dismantling 58 illegally-built business establishments on Son Tra Peninsula in the district.

-- The Department of Natural Resources and Environment of Dong Nai Province, a neighbor of Ho Chi Minh City, has launched inspections into the environmental protection at over 9,800 livestock facilities in the province. The inspections will last until July 15.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
The expected completion of Ho Chi Minh Citys second metro line project has been delayed to 2030 from 2026, according to a decision signed by Deputy Prime Minister Tran Luu Quang. Any problems in the project will be fixed between 2030 and 2032. The deputy prime minister assigned the Peoples Committee of Ho Chi Minh City to complete procedures to adjust the investment plan of the project and execute it in an economical and efficient manner as scheduled and in line with the law. The metropolis must coordinate with the Ministry of Finance and sponsors to handle issues relating to loan agreements for the project and bear responsibility before the prime minister for the accuracy of data and information. The city was also asked to remove difficulties and obstacles, complete the project by 2030, use loans effectively, and pay debts on schedule. In case of failure to finish the project as scheduled, the city must arrange capital resources to complete unfinished items. The second metro line project in Ho Chi Minh City, linking Ben Thanh Market in District 1 and Tham Luong Depot in District 12, was designed to stretch 11.2 kilometers, passing through six districts: 1, 3, 10, 12, Tan Binh, and Tan Phu. It will include a 9.2-kilometer underground section and two-kilometer elevated section, with 10 stations, upon completion. The project will require an estimated cost of over VND47.89 trillion (US$2 billion) and a total space of more than 251,100 square meters and affect 603 households. The metro line construction commenced in 2010 and was expected to be put into commercial operation in 2016. However, it has been executed at a snails pace. The deadline for the completion of the project was delayed many times before the Ho Chi Minh City Peoples Committee proposed extending it further to 2030 in July last year. An office building and ancillary works at the Tham Luong depot in District 12 have been finished. Only $20.13 million worth of loans and 18.52 million euros ($18.16 million) of official development assistance capital was disbursed for the project from 2010 to 2020, according to the Ministry of Finance. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!

The expected completion of Ho Chi Minh Citys second metro line project has been delayed to 2030 from 2026, according to a decision signed by Deputy Prime Minister Tran Luu Quang.

Any problems in the project will be fixed between 2030 and 2032.

The deputy prime minister assigned the Peoples Committee of Ho Chi Minh City to complete procedures to adjust the investment plan of the project and execute it in an economical and efficient manner as scheduled and in line with the law.

The metropolis must coordinate with the Ministry of Finance and sponsors to handle issues relating to loan agreements for the project and bear responsibility before the prime minister for the accuracy of data and information.

The city was also asked to remove difficulties and obstacles, complete the project by 2030, use loans effectively, and pay debts on schedule.

In case of failure to finish the project as scheduled, the city must arrange capital resources to complete unfinished items.

The second metro line project in Ho Chi Minh City, linking Ben Thanh Market in District 1 and Tham Luong Depot in District 12, was designed to stretch 11.2 kilometers, passing through six districts: 1, 3, 10, 12, Tan Binh, and Tan Phu.

It will include a 9.2-kilometer underground section and two-kilometer elevated section, with 10 stations, upon completion.

The project will require an estimated cost of over VND47.89 trillion (US$2 billion) and a total space of more than 251,100 square meters and affect 603 households.

The metro line construction commenced in 2010 and was expected to be put into commercial operation in 2016.

However, it has been executed at a snails pace.

The deadline for the completion of the project was delayed many times before the Ho Chi Minh City Peoples Committee proposed extending it further to 2030 in July last year.

An office building and ancillary works at the Tham Luong depot in District 12 have been finished.

Only $20.13 million worth of loans and 18.52 million euros ($18.16 million) of official development assistance capital was disbursed for the project from 2010 to 2020, according to the Ministry of Finance.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
The principal of an elementary and middle school in Hoa Binh Province, northern Vietnam has been arrested for sexually harassing two 15-year-old students at his office in school time. B.C.T., the 52-year-old principal of Binh Son Elementary and Middle School in Hoa Binhs Kim Boi District, is being investigated for lewdness against a person under the age of 16, local police said on Monday. The case was processed following a report made on April 7 by Tr.T.H.N. and P.T.T., both of whom are 15 and are in grade ninth at B.C.T.s school. N. and T. told police officers that B.C.T. summoned them to his office during school time, and asked them about sex, used profanities and vulgar language, as well as groped and touched their private parts in the office. The students then reported the incident to teachers in the school and their families. T. visited the houses of the two students to apologize to them and their families later, admitting to the described actions and vowed to take responsibility. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!

The principal of an elementary and middle school in Hoa Binh Province, northern Vietnam has been arrested for sexually harassing two 15-year-old students at his office in school time.

B.C.T., the 52-year-old principal of Binh Son Elementary and Middle School in Hoa Binhs Kim Boi District, is being investigated for lewdness against a person under the age of 16, local police said on Monday.

The case was processed following a report made on April 7 by Tr.T.H.N. and P.T.T., both of whom are 15 and are in grade ninth at B.C.T.s school.

N. and T. told police officers that B.C.T. summoned them to his office during school time, and asked them about sex, used profanities and vulgar language, as well as groped and touched their private parts in the office.

The students then reported the incident to teachers in the school and their families.

T. visited the houses of the two students to apologize to them and their families later, admitting to the described actions and vowed to take responsibility.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
A Taiwanese citizen passed away a few days after she underwent plastic surgery at a Ho Chi Minh City cosmetology hospital early this month, according to the municipal health authority. The Inspectorate of the citys Department of Health said on Tuesday that it had teamed up with police in the city and neighboring Dong Nai Province to clarify the case linked to this Taiwaneses death. The victim, named L.S.B., came to Korean Star-Sao Han, a cosmetology hospital located on Le Hong Phong Street in Ward 12, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City on April 1 for a medical check before undergoing plastic surgery there the following day, according to the preliminary investigation results. The 45-year-old Taiwanese was discharged from the hospital on April 3 and returned home in Dong Nai. On April 7, she suffered shortness of breath and was unable to speak, but she remained conscious. She was rushed to Thong Nhat General Hospital in Dong Nais Bien Hoa City for emergency treatment. The woman was pronounced dead on April 9. On April 12, the Health Department of Ho Chi Minh City reported this case to the Ministry of Health. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!

A Taiwanese citizen passed away a few days after she underwent plastic surgery at a Ho Chi Minh City cosmetology hospital early this month, according to the municipal health authority.

The Inspectorate of the citys Department of Health said on Tuesday that it had teamed up with police in the city and neighboring Dong Nai Province to clarify the case linked to this Taiwaneses death.

The victim, named L.S.B., came to Korean Star-Sao Han, a cosmetology hospital located on Le Hong Phong Street in Ward 12, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City on April 1 for a medical check before undergoing plastic surgery there the following day, according to the preliminary investigation results.

The 45-year-old Taiwanese was discharged from the hospital on April 3 and returned home in Dong Nai.

On April 7, she suffered shortness of breath and was unable to speak, but she remained conscious.

She was rushed to Thong Nhat General Hospital in Dong Nais Bien Hoa City for emergency treatment.

The woman was pronounced dead on April 9.

On April 12, the Health Department of Ho Chi Minh City reported this case to the Ministry of Health.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
IPFire is een opensourcefirewall voor i586-, x86_64- en ARM-systemen. Het bevat onder andere een intrusion detection/prevention system, deelt het netwerk op in zones, doet stateful packet inspection en biedt vpn-mogelijkheden. Voor meer informatie verwijzen we naar deze pagina. De ontwikkelaars hebben versie 2.27 Core Update 174 uitgebracht, een stabiele uitgave voor productiesystemen. De bijbehorende aantekeningen zien er als volgt uit:

The next Core Update has been released: IPFire 2.27 - Core Update 174. It is a traditional spring clean release which updates major parts of the core system and comes with a large number of bug fixes throughout.

This update also comes with a number of security patches in Apache, cURL and more, but none of them have been assessed as being exploitable on IPFire. Nevertheless, we intend to bring those updates to all of our users as soon as possible, and encourage speedy installation of Core Update 174.

The "toolchain" includes the most basic parts to build software and consists of GCC as the compiler, Binutils as the assembler and linker, and glibc as the C standard library. They have been updated to their latest versions improving performance for all generated code and fixing bugs. Although they are not as exciting for our users, they are the building blocks IPFire is founded on and make it the modern, fast and secure distribution that it is.
Between attending to customers and praying in the mosque, Shakeel Ahmed Khan is on his feet after iftaar

UbairUlHameed

Support TwoCircles



As the night begins to draw to a close, at 10 pm, Shakeel Ahmed Khans work picks up top speed. In the last hour before the shutter goes down at Sufia Cloth House, where 58 years old Khan works as a salesman, a rush of customers walks in for shopping for clothes for Eid.

After finishing his Tarahwih namaz, congregational prayers held in mosques in the night in Ramadan, Khan walks back to the shop, takes a seat on a cushioned chair, and welcomes customers with an eager smile. He has been waiting for this moment for over 12 hours. Ours is among the very few shops in the area that open in the morning, as early as 9 am, in the holy month of Ramadan, says Khan of Sufia Cloth House, a store that sells fabrics for men and women and offers tailoring services, in Zakir Nagar, a Muslim-majority area in southeast Delhi.

With a twinkle in his eye, Khan picks up a bolt of fabric and unfurls it in front of his customers, showcasing its unique texture and drape. He explains the intricate details of the fabric and how it will fall on the body when worn.

With a keen eye for detail and precision, Khan measures the selected fabric with a metre rod. His movements are fluid and precise, reflective of his rich experience of 20 years on the job. He carefully marks the measurements with a piece of chalk, making sure each cut is straight and accurate. Once the measurements are marked, he picks up his scissors and begins to cut the fabric, and then packs it carefully. In just a couple of hours, Khan effortlessly manages to deal with around 20 customers, each with their own unique demands.

He starts his day with suhoor, the pre-dawn meal, and the Fajr prayers around 4.45 am before taking a nap for a few hours. As the sun rises and a new day begins, he heads to work. The shop remains calm during the day, but after the iftaar (breaking of fast) meal at sunset, people start trickling in to purchase clothes for the upcoming Eid festival. Men, women both come to our shop to buy cloth. The rush is especially high a few days before Eid when our sales are over double that of other days of the year, Khan says.

The shop is a small, cosy space with shelves lined with bolts of vibrant fabrics, each with its own unique print and texture. The walls are painted in bright colors, adding to the atmosphere of the store. The air is filled with the scent of fresh fabric, and the sound of fabric being cut and measured by the Khan adds to the buzz of the store.

Khan, who hails from Sultanpur, Uttar Pradesh, lives in a rented accommodation, along with his wife and children, in nearby Abul Fazal neighbourhood. He claims to be related to famous Urdu poet Majrooh Sultanpuri, while reciting one of his couplets.

The low footfall during the hot day hours gives Khan the time to pray and recite the Quran. At around 1 pm, he leaves for the mid-day prayers to the nearby mosque.

For Khan, balancing his religious practices and his business is among his priorities.

Prayer is a fundamental part of my life, and I never compromise on it, says Khan.

But at the same time, I have a responsibility to my customers and my business, and I try to balance both as best as I can. Sometimes I miss the congregational prayers but I make up for them later, he says.

As the time for Iftar approaches, Khan begins to set out the meal on a small table in the corner of the shop. He carefully arranges dates, fruits, and other snacks, along with a glass of water or Rooh Afza. The meals usually come from the shop owners house, which lies a few hundred meters away from the shop.

We break our fast together, Its a beautiful thing to share meals with others, Khan says.

After Iftar, he returns to work, as a significant number of customers starts to arrive at the shop. He stands behind a wooden table, displaying textiles of different materials and colours to the customers according to their liking. Khans knowledge and experience in the industry have helped him assist customers in choosing the perfect fabric for their needs.

I have learned a lot about fabrics and customer service over the years, and I enjoy helping people find the perfect fabric for their clothing, says Khan.

At around 8.30 pm, he heads to the mosque for the one-and-a-half-hour-long Taraweeh prayers, and then returns to his shop to attend to another round of customers. He is constantly on his feet, either showing fabrics to customers, or praying in the mosque, after breaking his fast.

As Eid draws near and customers become more demanding, sometimes impatient, regarding tailoring services, Khan attempts to remains calm. I believe that we should always seek to understand others, even if we dont agree with them, he says.

As the day comes to an end, Khan begins to wrap up his business at the shop. He takes a moment to glance around the shop, checking for any leftover fabrics or products that need to be put away. With everything in order, Khan gathers his belongings and downs the shutter.

At the end of a long, fasting day, Khan says he does feel tired but not in a manner of complaining. Ramadan is a month of spiritual growth and reflection, and even though it can be challenging, its a time for immense reward and blessings, says Khan.

Ubair Ul Hameed is a fellow at TCN-SEED mentorship program
The Chinese embassy's spokesperson criticized the Justice Department for supposedly tarnishing China's reputation after charging two New Yorkers with allegedly running a secret police station in Manhattan's Chinatown.

These charges have been described by the Justice Department as a matter of "significant national security." Moreover, the US Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of New York has accused numerous Chinese government police officers of being part of an "army of Internet trolls" that has harassed Chinese activists and dissidents worldwide, including those in New York City.

Liu Pengyu, a spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy in the United States, has accused Washington of using fabricated charges to exercise "long-arm jurisdiction" by prosecuting Chinese citizens under the guise of "transnational repression," according to Fox News.

The Chinese official claims that the US is engaged in "political manipulation" aimed at damaging China's reputation.

Despite the copious amounts of evidence uncovered by the Justice Department, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Wenbin said on Tuesday that China does not run any secret police stations in New York City.

According to the Chinese government, there are facilities outside of China that assist Chinese people with document renewal and provide other services. These centers are staffed by local volunteers rather than Chinese police personnel.

China Allegedly Running a Secret Police Station in New York

As part of a crackdown on Beijing's suspected targeting of dissidents, US federal officials detained two New York residents on Monday for allegedly running a Chinese "secret police station" in Manhattan's Chinatown, Reuters reported.

Read Also: Senior ISIS Leader Facilitating Terror Attacks Killed

Charges of plotting to serve as agents of the Chinese government without telling US authorities and obstructing justice are brought against Lu Jianwang, 61, and Chen Jinping, 59. After making their first appearance in federal court in Brooklyn, they were freed on bail.

China has established abroad "service stations," notably in New York, that unlawfully collaborated with Chinese authorities to persuade fugitives to return to China, according to a study released in 2022 by the advocacy organization Safeguard Defenders, which has its headquarters in Spain.

US Says China is Oppressing Political Opponents

In a distinct complaint, 34 China Ministry of Public Security officers were charged by the US Justice Department of using fake social media accounts to intimidate Chinese dissenters in the US and spread propaganda to counter pro-democracy speech, according to CBS News.

They were part of a secretive task force that persecuted dissidents abroad and interfered with online conferences critical of the Chinese government.

The US Department of Justice is investigating "transnational repression" carried out by rivals such as China and Iran to frighten political opponents in the United States

Senior prosecutor Breon Peace said the US would not condone China's harassment of pro-democracy activists seeking asylum.

Related Article: G7 Member States Consider Asserting Influence in Taiwan Strait

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Arctic Innovation Competition awards to be presented April 22

Photo by Gabriel King

Finalists from all divisions in the 2022 Arctic Innovation Competition join UAF Chancellor Dan White, (center rear in hat), College of Business and Security Management Associate Dean Mark Herrmann (second standing from right) and Usibelli Coal Mine Vice President Lisa Cassino (third standing from left).

The University of Alaska Fairbanks College of Business and Security Management will present over $45,000 in cash prizes and scholarships at the Arctic Innovation Competition award ceremony Saturday, April 22, from 1-5 p.m. at the Wedgewood Resort.

The event is open to the public and will include refreshments. Attendees can meet competitors and win door prizes from Alaska Airlines, Fly Trampoline Park, the Fairbanks Childrens Museum and more.

The competition and awards ceremony are presented by Usibelli Coal Mine. This years competition, now in its 14th year, included online semifinals, which were followed by the first in-person competition after the pandemic.

Competitors present new and innovative solutions, inventions and business ideas that are judged by local engineers and business experts. Entries this year included a way to fireproof your grill, an outdoor air purifier, an artificial intelligence-operated snow plow and a wild animal alert app.

The competition accepts ideas from people of all ages. Competitors are sorted into three divisions: cub (12 years old and under), junior (ages 13-17) and main (ages 18 and over). Cash awards in the main division include a $15,000 grand prize and four $2,000 specialty kicker prizes. Kicker prizes recognize the best ideas in the categories of Arctic, Alaska college student, climate adaptation and sustainability.

Robert Werner, a returning competitor who has placed several times in AIC, submitted two ideas this year, one of which made it to the semifinals.

Arctic Innovation Competition is a wonderful, homegrown competition, Werner said. The diversity of ideas that is in the competition is a really interesting, broad scope. The best part is the kid part; its really heartwarming. The projects are so different from a lot of experiences kids have in school.

The public can vote on favorite ideas through Fan Favorite Voting, which takes place online from Friday, April 14, at 8 a.m. through Friday, April 21, at noon. Vote in each division once per day. Division winners will receive a Chris Marok Allstate Fan Favorite Lego trophy and cash award of $100.

If you have questions about the competition, contact AIC staff at 907-474-6518 or uaf-aic@alaska.edu.

164-23
The U.S. began joint military drills with Japan and South Korea on Monday as North Korea continued to bluster about their alliance.

The U.S. and its allies began naval anti-submarine drills Monday, their first joint exercise in six months. South Korea's defense ministry says the USS Nimitz aircraft carrier participated in the drill alongside destroyers from all three countries.

Submarine-launched missiles are much harder to track than ground or even air-launched missiles due to the uncertainty of where a submarine could launch the missile.

North Korea threatened retaliation ahead of Monday's drills this weekend, vowing that it was not making "empty talk."

US AND ITS PARTNERS STAGE WARFARE DRILLS AS JAPAN, SOUTH KOREA STRENGTHEN ALLIANCE AGAINST CHINA, NORTH KOREA

The aircraft carrier USS Nimitz is participating in drills with South Korea and Japan.

The rhetoric came in a statement published by the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), which condemned South Korea and the United States for the joint 11-day Freedom Shield exercise held last month.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

NORTH KOREA PLANS TRADING RUSSIA WEAPONS FOR FOOD, NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL SAYS

"Their war hysteria is running up to the climax along with the start of Ssangyong, a joint landing drill," the statement read.

"This reminds the people and army of the [Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea] of June 1950 when they had to be subject to war calamity, and further arousing their high vigilance," it continued.

Last month, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un called on his country to be ready to launch a nuclear attack to deter war. His comments came after a flurry of missile launches, which saw North Korea testing its capabilities.

"The nuclear force of the DPRK will strongly deter, control and manage the enemy's reckless moves and provocations with its high war readiness, and carry out its important mission without hesitation in case of any unwanted situation," Kim was quoted as saying in North Korean media.

Fox News' Bradford Betz contributed to this report.
Experience the full interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/9158751-Cainiao-Vietnam-supplychain-logistics-warehousing/

Home to more than 900,000 small and medium enterprises and sitting at the heart of the AsiaPacific region, Viet Nam has long been a major transportation and logistics hub for domestic and multinational corporations to reach major markets such as China and other Southeast Asian countries. Bolstered by the country's strong GDP growth rate of 8 per cent in 2022, thriving e-commerce, and strong manufacturing activities, logistic and warehouse industry contributed 4.5% to Viet Nam's GDP and was poised to grow at a CAGR of over 6.69% until 2029.

However, despite its huge potential, the logistics and warehousing sector in Viet Nam still faces tremendous challenges due to a lack of high-quality facilities, limited services, high costs, and insufficient infrastructure capabilities.

In recent years, businesses and logistic companies in Binh Duong and inner HCM City regions have had to rethink supply chain and operation strategies due to growing pressure on traffic, increasing land costs, hence storage costs, and limited space for future expansion. As a result, to enhance their competitiveness and ensure cost-efficient and undisrupted operations, increasing number of businesses are looking for alternative locations and logistic services within the Greater HCM City region.

Within the context, Cainiao PAT Logistics Park in Long An Province, and Cainiao Dong Nai Smart Logistics Park in Dong Nai are poised to meet the growing demands of businesses that have key customer audiences in inner HCMC, Western HCMC and the Mekong Delta area. Thanks to prime locations providing multi-way access to HCMC, the upcoming Long Thanh International Airport, Cat Lai port and VICT port, the logistic parks provide much-needed services within the bustling industrial clusters and ecosystem in the region.

The company's recent deals with leading industry players such as OOCL and VSICO are testament to the value of Cainiao Network.

Both OOCL and VSICO are established and high-ranking 3PL logistics corporations whose end-customers are also leading corporations in various sectors and origins. With Cainiao Network's state-of-the-art infrastructure, premium quality warehouse, efficient property management, professional customer services, and technical assistance, OOCL and VSICO can reduce their overall logistics costs and streamline their operations to fuel further business growth.

With its continuous efforts, Cainiao Network is proud to contribute to optimising Viet Nam's supply chain in various industries including FMCG, retailing, automotive, home appliances, and F&B chains, allowing its clients to leverage its services and extensive networks, and bringing new businesses to current and prospective tenants. Cainiao Network is confident to support businesses in Viet Nam with their logistics and warehousing needs and bring better logistics solutions to its clients and Vietnamese consumers.

About Cainiao Network:

Founded in 2013, Cainiao Network ("Cainiao") is a smart logistics company and the logistics arm of Alibaba Group. As part of its commitment to create customer value, it adopts a collaborative approach to logistics that aims to improve efficiency and customer experience for all players along the supply chain. It carries forward Alibaba's mission of making it easy to do business anywhere by aiming to deliver anywhere in China within 24 hours, and across the globe within 72 hours.

For further information, visit www.cainiaovietnam.com

Experience the full interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/9158751-Cainiao-Vietnam-supplychain-logistics-warehousing/
Samsung is appealing to its creative side as it collaborates with TOILETPAPER for limited edition designs. You might think that it'll be for smartphone wallpapers, but no. The electronics giant will be offering "unique and disruptive" art for Samsung refrigerator panels.

Bespoke Refrigerator Panels

Samsung is working with TOILETPAPER, a creative studio founded by artist Maurizio Cattelan and photographer Pierpaolo Ferrari, to create one-of-a-kind designs to turn plain and boring refrigerator panels into pieces of "limited edition" art.

The company's aim is to go beyond the basic white appliance design and use art as a form of personal self-expression through customization. The Bespoke design will add character to the fridge, with TOILETPAPER providing "unconventional, avant-garde art styles."

There are four Bespoke panel designs that the electronics company will introduce soon, with titles like "Dessert Lady," "Lipsticks," "Magic Mirror," and "Roses with Eyes." Each design will only be available for certain refrigerator models.

For example, "Lipsticks" and "Roses with Eyes" can be seen on Bespoke Bottom Mounted Freezer models, while "Magic Mirror" and "Dessert Lady" will be available for one-door and four-door refrigerator models.

Executive Vice President and Head of Sales and Marketing Team of Digital Appliances Business, Ik Soo Choi expressed that Samsung is excited to introduce its latest custom designs to Bespoke products, ensuring that users have new ways to express themselves.

"Working with Samsung on the new limited-edition Bespoke TOILETPAPER designs was an amazing opportunity for us to challenge ourselves with in new mediums," says TOILETPAPER co-founder Maurizio Cattelan.

Samsung announced that the limited-edition TOILETPAPER refrigerator panel designs will be available by the first half of 2023. Like appreciated art all over the world, collaborative projects will be displayed for public viewing.

Anyone can view the four Bespoke refrigerator panel designs at the Samsung booth at Art Point Superstudio Piu Via Tortona, Milano, between 11 AM to 9 PM, on April 18th to 22nd, and again on April 23rd between 11 AM to 6 PM.

Read Also: 5 Things You Probably Didn't Know About the History of Samsung

Samsung's C-Lab

The company has not fallen short when it comes to innovation and creativity. It even has a program that encourages employees to come forward with their ideas called "C-Lab" or Creative Lab, which was created back in 2012.

It's an in-house idea incubation program that supports the development of ideas. When an employee comes forward with a brilliant idea, Samsung would not only consult and let them independently manage it, but provide funds as well.

It has over a thousand participants and hundreds of incubated projects. Projects with great market potential will be given the opportunity to launch start-ups. Samsung also supports spin-off companies by providing seed money investments and consultations.

C-Lab spin-offs will also be given the chance to be listed as a vendor on Samsung's online shopping mall for employees and the Korean-Language website, re-employment at Samsung if they take time off to focus on the project and assist in business stabilization.

As for its startup accelerator C-Lab Outside, it can provide support in the form of business grants worth up to 100 million KRW, office spaces, mentoring programs, business presentations in tech events, and collaboration opportunities.

Related: By Using ChatGPT to Generate Notes, Samsung Employees Leak Confidential Info to AI Chatbot
HA NOI  VinFast on April 18 announced that the VF 8 eSUV has been approved for eligibility in the Clean Vehicle Rebate Project (CVRP) from the California Air Resources Board (CARB).

The addition of the VF 8 to the CVRP list of eligible vehicles means VinFast customers in California who buy or lease a new VF 8 will be able to apply for a CVRP rebate of US$2,000 to $7,500.

The CVRP applies to all VF 8s sold or leased in California, retroactively from March of this year. Eligible customers in California can apply for the rebate via the CVRP website.

Receiving CARB eligibility approval of the VF 8 allows the model to qualify for inclusion in several other state incentive programs administered by the Center for Sustainable Energy including Oregon, Vermont, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, and Massachusetts. In addition, the VF 8 and VF 9 have also been officially added to the list of vehicles eligible for Californias Clean Air Vehicle Decal Program which grants free HOV lane access for zero-emission vehicles.

VinFasts second EV batch exported to North America, including 1,879 VF 8 standard models, left MPC Port (Hai Phong, Vietnam) on April 16. It is expected to arrive at Benicia Port, California in May. The shipment includes 1,098 VF 8s for the US market that are also eligible for CVRP for California customers.  VNS
HA NOI  Ha Noi recently issued a project on promoting Vietnamese businesses to directly participate in foreign distribution networks by 2030.

This project aims to build a close strategic cooperation relationship between Ha Noi's manufacturing and exporting enterprises and foreign distribution networks, on both traditional export and e-commerce channels, towards a stable and sustainable productionexportdistribution model.

To accomplish these goals, Ha Noi will direct relevant units, departments, and branches to provide market information for 5,000 businesses, and training for 1,000 to improve their competitiveness and supply capacity to gradually participate in the global value chain; support 300 firms in participating in cross-border e-commerce; and help more than 500 products to be exported directly to foreign distribution networks.

Through many foreign retail groups, Vietnamese goods are now present in supermarkets and shops around the world.

Every year, many kinds of products of Viet Nam, and Ha Noi in particular, are offered at Aeon supermarkets and retail stores across Japan through the Vietnamese Goods Week programme.

Besides traditional products such as instant noodles, rice paper, spices, coffee, garment and textiles and footwear, Vietnamese fruits and agricultural products have also gradually reached the hands of Japanese consumers. Through this programme, many products have been imported by the Aeon Group and offered at hundreds of its supermarkets, contributing to realising the goal of US$1 billion in export turnover of Vietnamese goods through Aeon's system by 2025.

Similarly, Central Retail, one of the largest retail platforms in Southeast Asia, has regularly organised a Vietnamese Goods Week programme in Thailand.

The group has also pledged to support Vietnamese enterprises in seeking partners and bringing Vietnamese goods to its retail systems in Thailand and Italy.

In addition, the export trend through distribution systems based on e-commerce platforms is also being considered an effective solution in helping businesses gradually participate in the global supply chain. In 2022, the Ha Noi Department of Industry and Trade organised a workshop titled Cross-border e-commerce with Amazon  Export opportunities for Vietnamese enterprises, in which more than 500 businesses were guided to access Amazon.

o Hong Hanh, strategic partner director of Amazon Global Selling Vietnam, said that over recent years, the number of Vietnamese sellers has been increasing on this e-commerce platform. In the future, Amazon Global Selling will strongly support Vietnamese businesses to grasp market information, improve the quality of human resources, and gradually build up brands for Vietnamese goods in the world market.  VNS
HA NOI  The railway sector has become a magnet for foreign investors, with firms and organisations from across the globe showing a growing appetite for the industry.

The East Japan Railway Company (JRC), a heavyweight in Japanese railway, sent a letter to the Ministry of Transport expressing interest in two domestic projects; one to upgrade the Ha Noi-Hai Phong Railway and the other to build a new railway leading to the Hai Phong International Port.

The Japanese company made an on-site visit on June 2022 and held a meeting with the ministry on this occasion. In the meeting, a JRC representative requested a go-ahead from the ministry to conduct a feasibility study for the projects.

"Given the high demand for the transportation of goods and passengers between Hai Phong and Ha Noi, the two projects seem feasible and profitable," said the representative.

In another meeting with the ministry, the Ambassador of Spain to Viet Nam, Pilar Mendez Jimenez, said Spain is keen on cooperating with Viet Nam in the development of high-speed railway lines. She also revealed that her country is home to the world's second-longest high-speed railway system, with over 30 lines.

Meanwhile, World Bank expressed its desire to collaborate with Viet Nam in the North-South Express Railway.

Although scores of foreign investors are eager to come on board, some obstacles still need to be overcome to ensure their easy ride.

Luu Quang Lam, chairman of the Investment Mining Port JSC, said the Government's policy to unlock private investments in the railway sector is on point. However, administrative procedures need to be made clearer and more transparent to bring the policy to great effect.

Transportation expert Nguyen Xuan Thuy shared this view, saying that transparency is the key to private investment, which would fill the gap left by public investment in the sector.

According to the Vietnam Railway Authority, the scheme to mobilise private investment for the sector has culminated with only one finished project by late 2022 after ten years of implementation. All other projects have attracted investors' interest but have yet to be realised.

The unsuccessful scheme was because relevant authorities failed to draw up instructions on how to implement favourable policies in the sector. Without favourable policies, investors are reluctant to get involved in railway projects, which normally require huge initial outlays yet yield low-profit margins.

Investors expect that Conclusion No.49 on the development of the railway sector until 2030 with a vision to 2045 would help to turn the situation around, drawing more investors in the unfinished projects.

"The Conclusion would lay the groundwork for the revitalisation of the sector, which has been on the decline for quite a while," said the head of the Vietnam Railway and Economic Association.

According to the Ministry of Transport, the railway sector, with no new lines built over the past years, is gradually losing its market shares to other means of transport.

The Party has had to put the sector on its ten-year agenda to prevent the loss of market shares, with priority being given to the Noth-South Express Railway and some urban rail transit projects in Ha Noi and HCM City.

Under the ministry's estimation, the sector needs around VN240 trillion (US$10.2 billion) of investment until 2030, of which over VN46 trillion for upgrading existing railway systems, VN112 trillion for the construction of high-speed railway lines, and around VN80 trillion for traditional lines.

Minister Nguyen Van Thang revealed that the ministry is calling for more public money to be spent on large-scale railway projects to cut logistics costs for firms between 2021 and 2025.

The projects to benefit from the increased public investment would include the rail lines connecting the national railway to Lach Huyen Port, those connecting the national railway to the Chinese railway in Lao Cai Province, and those connecting the Trang Bom rail lines to Cai Mep-Thi Vai Port.  VNS
HA NOI  Viet Nam and Australia aim to double the scale of two-way investment and become each others top 10 trading partners in the future.

Australian investors are operating 593 projects in Viet Nam with a total registered capital of approximately US$2 billion while Vietnamese businesses have invested $500 million in Australia.

Speaking at the third ministerial-level Viet Nam-Australia Economic Partnership Meeting, held on Monday in Ha Noi, Australias Minister for Trade and Tourism Don Farrell said the Australia-Viet Nam Enhanced Economic Engagement Strategy (EEES) with the goal of boosting trade and investment is ambitious.

Especially, for investment, the goal is to double the current figure, he said.

The field of cooperation is not only economic investment but also investment in other fields, such as education and training, development cooperation, tourism and agriculture, he said.

In terms of development cooperation, Australia is one of the major non-refundable Official Development Assistance (ODA) donors for Viet Nam. According to the announcement of the Australian Embassy, in 2022-23, Australia has increased ODA for Viet Nam by 18 per cent, from AUD78.9 million ($52.9 million) to AUD92.8 million ($62.2 million).

The Australian Government's ODA for Viet Nam focuses mainly on innovation; supporting the development and effective use of a highly skilled workforce; strengthening the economic empowerment of women, including ethnic minorities; responding to the COVID-19 pandemic; creating favourable conditions for and attracting the participation of the private sector in socio-economic development.

At the meeting, Vietnamese Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Chi Dung said that after 50 years of establishing diplomatic relations, Viet Nam and Australia have become important leading economic partners of each other in many fields, from trade, investment, development cooperation, and agriculture, as well as education and training.

Australia is ranked 20th out of 143 countries and territories investing in Viet Nam, focusing on the fields of processing industry, manufacturing, accommodation and catering services, agriculture, forestry and fishery, he said.

Besides, Vietnamese enterprises have now invested $500 million in Australia, he said.

Data revealed at the meeting showed that the trade scale between the two countries reached $15.7 billion by the end of 2022, about 26.9 per cent higher than the figure of 2021.

Australia is Viet Nam's 7th largest trading partner.

Specifically, by the end of last year, Viet Nam's export turnover to Australia reached $5.6 billion while Viet Nam's import turnover from Australia reached $10.1 billion, a year on year increase of 26.2 per cent and 27.3 per cent, respectively.

Viet Nam's export products to Australia include mainly machinery, equipment, footwear, textiles, seafood, iron and steel.

Australia is an important supplier of raw materials for Viet Nams production such as coal, cotton, ores and minerals, and wheat.

In terms of education and training, according to statistics from the Australian Department of Education, Viet Nam ranked fifth among countries and territories sending their students to Australia. As of December 2022, there are more than 22,000 Vietnamese students studying and researching at Australian educational institutions.

Minister Dung called for more investment from Australia and suggested that the Australian side coordinate with Viet Nam to develop the bilateral relations in a more balance manner, and support Viet Nam in trade promotion activities and introducing more products, especially agro-fisheries products in Australia.

The two sides should work closer in new cooperation areas such as innovation, green and renewable energy, circular and high-tech agriculture as well as culture and tourism, he said.

For his part, Farrell affirmed that cooperation between Australia and Viet Nam has been fruitful in all fields, especially trade, investment, education and training. He said he believes that the meeting will open up new development orientations for the Viet Nam-Australia partnership.

At the meeting, the two sides discussed and proposed measures to strongly promote Viet Nam-Australia economic relations and assessed the implementation of the strategy and the results of the meetings of the two sides Working Groups on ODA, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and trade.

The two sides also listened to the comments and recommendations of Vietnamese and Australian businesses to promote the business environment.

In addition, they discussed co-operation between the two countries in multilateral and regional forums of Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN), Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation (APEC), World Trade Organisation (WTO), Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Area (AANZFTA), and Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF).

The meeting was organised while the two countries are holding many activities to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Viet Nam and Australia (1973-2023).

Participants agreed to organise the fourth Viet Nam-Australia Economic Partnership Meeting in Australia in a convenient time.  VNS
HA NOI  The food industry of Viet Nam has significant potential for rapid expansion in the domestic market and increase international cooperation thanks to efforts to improve competitiveness, Vu Ba Phu, director of the Viet Nam Trade Promotion Agency, said.

The growth in the domestic market is being driven by the increasing incomes of local residents, Phu said, adding that Viet Nam with a population of nearly 100 million people, about 50 per cent of whom are below 35, has a huge demand for food products, such as beverages, milk, oil, flour and starch.

He cited statistics that there are about 5,083 enterprises operating in the food industry, an increase of 83.8 per cent against 2019  a positive growth after the COVID-19 pandemic. The food industry is one among key industries prioritised by the Government to 2025.

During the past five years, the consumption of food and beverage products in Viet Nam increased on average 9.68 per cent and 6.66 per cent, respectively.

The vegetable and fruit processing industry which accounts for 24.7 per cent of the food industrys revenue saw a growth of nearly 205 per cent and is expected to continue expanding rapidly, driven by exports and domestic consumption. Major fruits are mango, banana, dragon fruit, orange, and pineapple.

The food industry also has significant potential to increase international cooperation.

The cooperation with big companies like Lotte Mart, E  Mart, Home Plus and CJ creates an opportunity for Vietnamese firms to bring products to shelves of supermarkets and shopping centres in the Republic of Korea including Coupang and Gmarket and gradually penetrate the e-commerce market in this country.

The major food products of Viet Nam exported to Korea include fresh and frozen octopus and squid.

There are four free trade agreements (FTAs) with the presence of both Viet Nam and the Republic of Korea (RoK), contributing significantly to promoting the expansion of Vietnamese products in the Korean market and vice versa, including the ASEAN  Korea FTA, Viet Nam  Korea FTA, Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).

According to a representative from the Korea TradeInvestment Promotion Agency (Kotra), the trade of agro-forestry-fishery products between Viet Nam and the RoK is increasing. The RoK has opened up the agriculture sector based on the FTAs with ASEAN and Viet Nam.

The trade liberalisation process has made the RoK the fourth largest importer of Viet Nams agro-forestry-fishery products, after the US, China and Australia.

According to Paul Le from Central Retail Viet Nam, RoK enterprises should study the opportunities to import products from Viet Nam which are not available in the RoK. Some retailers have earned high revenue from importing instant beef and chicken noodles to the RoK.

He pointed out that Viet Nam has a huge source of raw materials while the RoK has the strength in processing technology, providing room for enhancing the cooperation between the two sides.

Pham Thi ao, deputy director of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development of Hai Duong Province which has many specialties such as Thanh Ha thieu lychee, Hoa Vang sticky rice, Chi Linh hill chicken, and bean cake, said that local food producers are weak in processing and the production lacks stability and efficiency.

ao said that policies should be raised to encourage investments in food processing, especially incentives in land and credit. Besides, it was necessary to complete national technical standards for the food industry, she said.  VNS
BERLIN - A delegation of 12 Vietnamese enterprises is taking part in the world's leading industrial and IT fair Hannover Messe in Germany, taking place from April 17-21, in a bid to showcase products, study the market, and form partnerships.

Highlighting environmentally friendly production, this years expo attracts some 4,000 exhibitors from 100 countries worldwide. The Vietnamese delegation is sent to the event by the Viet Nam Software and IT Services Association (VINASA).

At the Vietnamese space on April 17, VINASA together with the Vietnamese Trade Office in Germany held a networking event themed Industrial digital transformation.

Vu Phuong Thao, Director of VINASA's business development services department, said this was the third time the association has sent Vietnamese firms to the fair.

According to her, Viet Nams ICT industry reeled in about US$148 billion in revenue last year, up 8.7 per cent year-on-year. Turnover of software and IT services contributed more than $1.97 billion to the sum, and is expected to hit $50 billion and $150 billion in the next 10 and 20 years, respectively.

o Viet Ha from the trade office said digital transformation was among the key cooperation sectors mentioned by the Vietnamese Ministry of Industry and Trade and German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action in the minutes of the 2nd session of the Viet Nam-Germany joint committee on economic cooperation. This, coupled with the EU-Viet Nam Free Trade Agreement taking effect, would be conducive to the sides capitalisation on their collaboration potential in technology, she noted.

Nguyen Manh Hai, the counselor overseeing the Vietnamese Embassys investment section, said that Germany was one of the largest ICT markets in the world and the largest software market in Europe with about 100,000 IT companies.

Hai said ample room remained for two-way investment in digital technology and transformation, which needed to be actively tapped by the Vietnamese and German sides in the near future for improved cooperation and investment in related services. VNS
HCM CITY  Viet Nam continues to be a hub for strong tech talent, said the Southeast Asia Startup Talent Report 2023.

The second iteration of the report, which is launched by Monk's Hill Ventures (MHV) and Glints, provides a deeper dive into hiring trends, salary and equity data for founders, C-suite and startup talent from over 10,000 data points and 30 interviews with startup founders across Singapore, Indonesia and Viet Nam.

With a young skilled population steeped in STEM education and its huge services industry ripe for digital innovations, Viet Nam continues to be a strong tech talent market despite the current economic slowdown, said Justin Nguyen, general partner of Monks Hill Ventures.

There is a steady rise of Vietnamese engineering-centric founders who have propelled product-centric cultures. This is behind the growth of some formidable companies and a big reason behind Viet Nam turning into a major startup tech hub. The workforce here is one to be reckoned with and its increasingly the case that Viet Nam is where regional champions go to build their high-performing tech teams, he said.

The report finds that startups will look to invest in more revenue-generating roles such as sales, business development, and marketing and PR in 2023 as companies refocus on paths to profitability.

Additionally, while salaries continue to increase, the growth rate will be much lower than in previous years from upwards of 30 per cent to 5-7 per cent per annum.

The best coders in Viet Nam are compensated competitively to those based in Singapore. The report we hope equips local startups with the tools they need to hire, attract, and retain talent and empowers talent to grow and scale within the maturing startup ecosystem, said Bryan Lee, general manager of Glints Vietnam.

According to the report, the tech talent crunch persists in Southeast Asia, with tech roles remaining high in demand, earning on average 38 per cent more than non-tech roles.

Cash still prevails over equity in the region. While 86 per cent of companies surveyed offer ESOP, on average, ESOP is only made available to one-third of their talent.

The median CEO base salary grew 2.4 times for those that raised up to $5 million compared to 2021, as companies raise larger rounds. More CEOs are taking greater equity dilution, likely due to current headwinds. The report found a 5 per cent drop in equity for CEOs in the $5-10 million funding stage compared to 2021.

Engineering remains the most sought-after tech function. Specialised skills such as product and data are also highly attractive to employers. After engineering, talent in product and data are the highest paid.

Product managers saw the biggest salary increase, making 27 per cent more than in 2021.

Hybrid work is becoming the status quo, with 45 per cent of startups offering hybrid work and 12 per cent offering remote work options to employees across markets.

As companies focus on the path to profitability and positive cash flow this year, the top three functions that companies prioritize hiring for in 2023 across markets are engineering, BD & sales, and marketing & PR, the report said.

Glints is the leading talent ecosystem in Southeast Asia.

Meanwhile, Monks Hill Ventures (MHV) is a venture capital firm investing in early-stage technology companies, primarily pre-Series A and Series A, in Southeast Asia.  VNS
A NANG  A timber afforestation project funded by Ecoculture of the United States has yielded 20,000 samples of precious timber species in Hoa Vang District, promoting the development of an "environment and smart" urban area by 2030.

The plantation, located on 18.1 hectares in Hoa Lien Commune, consists of dalbergia tonkinnensis and pterocarpus macrocarpus, which will help residents in the commune boost sustainable production and the forestry economy, as well as eco-tourism services and medicinal herb farming on forest canopies.

Most rural residents have benefited from acacia plantations, but log farms have badly impacted the soil.

To combat this issue, the city has gradually replaced acacia with indigenous larger timber species, a positive, resilient method against climate change.

The project was implemented by GreenViet, an NGO, and Hoa Lien Commune People's Committee and local farmers.

The project is a part of the "One Million Trees Plantation" project that GreenViet has been planting in public parks and pedestrian zones in a Nang, Ha Noi and HCM City to provide a "green" shadow for the community and reduce air pollution from 2021-2025.

Volunteers and GreenViet had grown 1,000 big trees in a landscape and habitat recovery project for the endangered red-shanked doucs langurs in rich biodiversity in Son Tra Nature Reserve.

The "One Million Trees Plantation" project also helped provide free education and a "green" rehabilitation centre for 100 children with disabilities in Quang Nam Province.

The European Union (EU) has agreed to fund a biodiversity protection and environmental sustainability project in a Nang from 2020-23 with total funding of 650,000 euros.

a Nang has been raising total funds of US$4.4 million for conservation, forest protection and afforestation and establishing new reserves on 43,722 hectares by 2030. The city aims to complete growing more than five million trees by the end of 2025.  VNS
A NANG  The Viet Nam National Symphony Orchestra and Japanese conductor Honna Tetsuji performed a charity concert on March 13th in the central city for students who lost their parents to COVID-19 as part of the "Viet Nam-Japan Jointly Light Up Hope" program.

The event, made possible through funding from Sompo Japan Insurance Inc and the expertise of conductor Honna Tetsuji, featured renowned compositions such as Salut D'amour, Turkish March, Merry Go Round, and Under the Sea.

The Hope School students also participated in the concert, showcasing their gratitude to donors and visitors with Vietnamese children's songs.

Its a wonderful moment that I have waited a long time for since I shared the idea of the concert with Taketoshi Nagaoka (head representative office of Sompo Japan Insurance Inc)," Honna Tetsuju said at the concert. "I was so impressed with community charity programmes organised by FPT Group and the support for the COVID-19 motherless students at the Hope School.

I want to transmit the emotion through music from the heart, not just with words, to the students who lost their parents during the COVID-19 pandemic. Its a harmony in the soul that artists from Viet Nam National Symphony Orchestra expressed through music and students performances tonight.

Taketoshi Nagaoka said he was touched by a visit to the school last July, and he shared ideas with the Japanese conductor on beginning a concert programme to help children who lost their parents to COVID-19.

The Hope School, which took care of 1,000 COVID-19 parentless children in 2021, is the only school in Viet Nam receiving charity support through the Educational Fund through music programmes from the Japanese Government.

This year is the 50th anniversary of Japan-Viet Nam diplomatic ties.

The educational fund aims to ease the pain of underprivileged kids through music, helping them have more hope and confidence in life.

The FPT-initiated Viet Nam-Japan Jointly Light Up Hope music programme has sponsorships from the Japanese business community to help support children who lost parents to COVID-19 at the Hope School.

According to the programme organisers, the educational fund through music performances will be organised at the school over three years, with three music performances each year.

More than 3,500 runners joined a charity fundraising race FPT Happy Run, contributing $140,000 to support underprivileged students in remote mountainous areas.

The school, based in the FPT City in Ngu Hanh Son District, provides full education and nourishment for 1,000 COVID-19 parentless students.  VNS
HA NOI  Vietnamese foreign minister Bui Thanh Son holds official talks with his Austrian counterpart Alexander Schallenberg on Monday, highlighting trade and cooperation between the two countries.

Minister Son said that Viet Nam has always attached great importance to the ties with Austria and hopes to elevate the relations further.

Accompanying Minister Schallenberg was a business delegation comprising representatives of 21 large Austrian enterprises led by Vice President of the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber Philipp Gady.

Welcoming the visiting minister and his delegation to the Southeast Asian country, the Vietnamese minister said that the trip is an important milestone in developing the two countries bilateral ties.

Son added that Austria is one of Viet Nams top 10 trade partners in Europe. Despite the effects of COVID-19, their two-way trade turnover reached US$2.79 billion in 2022.

He requested that the two countries continue to take advantage of the European Union-Viet Nam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) and encouraged Austrian businesses to invest in the Vietnamese economy, especially in the sectors of Austrias strengths such as infrastructure, renewable energy and technology.

The Vietnamese minister also asked that Austria soon ratify the European Union-Viet Nam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA) and support the removal of the European Commissions yellow card on Viet Nams fisheries.

Austrian Minister Schallenberg agreed to look into the matter, adding that Viet Nam has been a dynamic developing economy in the region.

The Southeast Asian country has been witnessing impressive socio-economic growth and has an increasingly important role in the region and the world, he said.

Austria hopes to strengthen its relations with Viet Nam, one of its key partners in Southeast Asia, especially in green technology, transport, healthcare and infrastructure.

The two countries also agreed on promoting delegation exchanges of all levels and collaboration between the two foreign ministries.

They will also support each other on multilateral forums and international organisations such as the United Nations (UN), the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) and the ASEAN-EU cooperation framework.

The two leaders also discussed expanding bilateral cooperation to national defence-security, vocational training and support to the Vietnamese community in Austria.

They also shared their thoughts on regional and international issues of mutual concern, highlighting the importance of ensuring security, safety, freedom of navigation and overflight at the South China Sea (known as East Sea in Viet Nam) and addressing disputes by peaceful means and based on international laws, which include the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Viet Nam and Austria will also celebrate the 50th anniversary of their official diplomatic relations this year, with positive developments in politics, diplomacy, trade-economy, cooperation and culture.  VNS
The Department of Defense (DoD) recognizes that teens are more often than not on their smartphones. They plan to take the opportunity to use that to their advantage by placing targeted ads on social media and streaming platforms.

Recruitment Through Ads

The primary objective of the effort is to reach teenagers and encourage qualified and potential applicants to enlist, as well as raise awareness of the Georgia Army National Guard, which is the sixth largest National Guard in the US.

Through location tracking and geofencing, the National Guard will be testing the recruitment ad at 67 different high schools. It will be in the form of beam banner ads, video advertisements, and other materials to be displayed on apps like Instagram, Snapchat, and more.

Geofencing will be used to target individuals in a particular geographical area. While students are the target audience for the ads, the Georgia National Guard also intends to reach school counselors and parents, who can persuade teens in making a decision

According to Gizmodo, the military organization has a goal in mind when it comes to the ads' reach at 3.5 million views and thousands of clicks for the first few months. Although the National Guard's target is 17-24-year-olds, there is no mention of limiting its ads to them.

Benjamin Lynde, a lawyer in Georgia, said geofence targeting could be the ad campaign's way of bypassing "parental involvement in the recruiting process." Although, Lynde also expressed that parents should be involved in the decision-making.

While some may be concerned about their location being tracked, there's also the monitoring of phone identity and activity for ad retargeting. When a user clicks on an ad, the military will send more ads their way even if they are out of the geofenced location.

The geofenced ads are still not active based on current reports, but the Georgia National Guard has other means to encourage young people to enlist, such as reaching out through phone, email, social media, or recruiting events held on campuses.

In fact, recruitment events are normally hosted at schools. The No Child Left Behind Act of 2002 has made it possible for schools to receive mandatory military funding to assist military recruiters in obtaining student contact information when requested.

Read Also: Military Experts Talk About War in Space, Its Devastating Effects on Earth

Military Recruitments in High Schools

The military needs around 150,000 new recruits yearly to maintain its capabilities, and military recruiters in high school may provide teenagers with options, as well as help with establishing a strong national security force.

Staff Sergeant Krystal Currin expressed that she does the work to educate students about possible future careers. Some may be reluctant to enlist due to the fear of facing actual combat, but the military is not limited to that.

According to Currin, there are other things to do besides going overseas and fighting. She further explained that she works in the IT field where she fixes satellites, computers, and phones, meaning it's possible to work for the military without ever being in a fight.

Although, students will also have to consider that when they enlist, there's still a chance they can be sent to a war zone even if they have technical on non-combat jobs, according to Path Finder. They will still be trained to fight and may even be ordered to kill.

Related: US Congress Approves $40 Million Budget to Improve Microsoft's Military AR Goggles
HA NOI  Chairman of the National Assembly (NA) Vuong inh Hue and his entourage left Ha Noi on Tuesday morning for official visits to Cuba, Argentina and Uruguay from April 18-28.

The visits are made at the invitations of President of the National Assembly of People's Power of Cuba Esteban Lazo Hernandez, President of the Chamber of Deputies of Argentina Cecilia Moreau, and Speaker of the Senate of Uruguay Beatriz Argimon Cedeira.

Accompanying the top Vietnamese legislator are Vice NA Chairman Tran Quang Phuong, NA Secretary General and Chairman of the NA Office Bui Van Cuong, Chairman of the NAs Foreign Affairs Committee Vu Hai Ha, Minister of Construction and Chairman of the Viet Nam Sub-committee of the Viet Nam-Cuba Intergovernmental Committee Nguyen Thanh Nghi, and leaders of many ministries and localities.  VNS
HA NOI  Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh welcomed the first visit to Viet Nam by Austrian Federal Minister for European and International Affairs Alexander Schallenberg during a reception for the latter in Ha Noi on Monday.

PM Chinh hailed the outcomes of the earlier talks between Schallenberg and Vietnamese Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son, as well as a Viet Nam-Austria cooperation forum with the participation of the two countries businesses the same day.

In its foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, diversification and multilateralisation of external ties, active and proactive global integration in a comprehensive and extensive manner, Viet Nam always valued and wanted to reinforce cooperative ties with Austria, an important partner of the European Union, he said.

Schallenberg affirmed that the Austrian Government always considered Vietnam a prioritised partner in the region and looks to expand cooperation with the Southeast Asian country in various areas.

The PM thanked the Austrian Government and people for providing invaluable support for Viet Nam in the process of national development and the past fight against COVID-19. He suggested both sides facilitate the exchange of delegations at all levels, especially those at high level to raise mutual trust and mutual understanding, creating a driving force for all-around collaboration.

Hailing Austria as one of the top 10 trading partners of Viet Nam in Europe over the past years, the PM believed that the two countries' businesses would continue working closely together and tapping advantages brought about by the EU-Viet Nam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) to lift two-way trade to US$4 billion in the coming years.

He wished that Austria would create favourable conditions for Viet Nams products such as electronics, apparel, leather and footwear, agricultural and aquatic products to access the Austrian and EU markets.

On the occasion, PM Chinh proposed the Austrian Government voice its support and call on the Austrian legislature to promptly ratify the EU-Viet Nam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA) and support the European Commission (EC)s early removal of yellow card warning against Vietnamese seafood.

The Vietnamese leader underlined the need to step up bilateral cooperation in areas that both sides have strength and demand, such as sci-tech, infrastructure, labour, vocational training, digital transformation, circular economy and green transition. The two countries hold great potential to expand cooperation in cultural, art and music exchange, and tourism.

He expressed his wish that the Austrian Government would continue offering all possible support to the Vietnamese community living and working in Austria, thereby contributing to the prosperity of Austria and acting as a bridge to propel the bilateral cooperation.

Schallenberg, for his part, said Austria would like to further deepen its ties with Viet Nam in all spheres, adding that the Austrian Government and business community are interested in practical and effective cooperation with Vietnamese partners.

He agreed that both sides should step up labour cooperation by considering the signing of cooperation agreements between the two governments, carrying out training projects between universities and on-the-job training at Austrian companies in Viet Nam, as well as developing the labour market which has great potential.

The two sides vowed to support each other at multilateral and regional forums. Regarding the South China Sea (known in Viet Nam as the East Sea) issue, they shared their views on the importance of ensuring security, safety and freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea, as well as settling disputes through peaceful measures in accordance with international law, especially the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).  VNS
HA NOI  Viet Nam and Australia need to develop bilateral trade in a more balanced way by promoting the export of Vietnamese products to the Southwest Pacific nation, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh said while receiving Australian Minister for Trade and Tourism Don Farrell in Ha Noi on Monday.

Farrell is on a working visit in Viet Nam to co-chair the third Viet Nam-Australia Economic Partnership Meeting together with Vietnamese Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Chi Dung, which took place on the same day.

Being informed by the guest on the sound outcomes of the meeting, PM Chinh recommended the minister work closely with Vietnamese competent agencies to effectively implement the results and the Viet Nam - Australia Enhanced Economic Engagement Strategy (EEES) announced in December 2021.

The host and guest reviewed and lauded achievements in the bilateral ties as this year marks the 50th founding anniversary of their diplomatic relations, which was upgraded to a strategic partnership in March 2018. In their meeting earlier this month, Vietnamese President Vo Van Thuong and Australian Governor-General David Hurley agreed to exchange views on the upgrade of the relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership at an appropriate time in the future.

Last year, bilateral trade hit US$15.7 billion, up nearly 27 per cent year on year. Viet Nam is now Australias 10th biggest trading partner and Australia is Viet Nams 7th largest trading partner.

Viet Nam was implementing three strategic breakthroughs  institutional building, human resource and infrastructure development, PM Chinh said, noting that in the process, the country had always received support from Australia.

He took this occasion to thank Australia for assisting Viet Nam in COVID-19 prevention and control and socio-economic recovery.

The PM proposed Australia make it easier for Vietnamese electronic, footwear, textile, and agricultural products to access its market and give a boost to a number of fields where both nations have strength such as education-training, digital economy, innovation, renewable energy, labour, tourism, people-to-people exchange, and high-tech farming.

He hoped that Farrell, in his post, would make contributions to fostering bilateral trade and cooperation towards effectiveness and practical outcomes, helping the two sides fully tap their potential.

PM Chinh expressed his wish that Australia would share experience to help Viet Nam build an independent, self-reliant economy in association with extensive and effective international integration, particularly in the fields of innovation, capital support, technology, personnel training, and management experience serving such areas as digital economy, green economy, circular economy, energy transition, and climate change.

He asked the minister to convey his invitation to the Australian PM to visit Viet Nam at an appropriate time.

Agreeing with the host's suggestions, Farrell said he would collaborate with Vietnamese ministries and agencies to realise the PMs wishes.

He affirmed that Australia wanted Viet Nam to play a more important role in the countrys trade partner diversification strategy and act as a bridge to promote its relationship with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).  VNS
HA NOI  President Vo Van Thuong hosted a reception in Ha Noi on Monday for ASEAN ambassadors who came to congratulate him on his election as the Vietnamese State leader.

On behalf of the ASEAN diplomats, Indonesian Ambassador Denny Abdi conveyed congratulations and greetings from leaders of Indonesia and ASEAN member states to the President.

He said that over the past 28 years, Viet Nam had played an important role in strengthening the solidarity and central role of ASEAN, as well as in building the ASEAN Community Vision beyond 2025. Viet Nam's GDP growth of 8.02 per cent last year will generate momentum for regional economic development.

Committing to actively supporting and contributing effectively to further enhancing the relationship between Viet Nam and ASEAN countries, he said he believed that under the sound leadership of the President, their friendship and cooperation would continue to grow, making important contributions to maintaining peace, security and stability in the region.

Hailing this year's ASEAN theme, "ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth", which reflects the role of the bloc in the region and the shared aspirations of ASEAN for development in peace, prosperity and harmony, Thuong said that Viet Nam would accompany ASEAN 2023 Chair, and all member countries in achieving these goals.

ASEAN held an extremely important position, and was an integral part of Viet Nam's foreign policy. Unity, flexibility, harmony and inclusiveness would be the "golden keys" to opening doors to a new regional space with ASEAN at the centre, towards realising the ASEAN Community Vision 2025 and beyond, with the community spirit permeating among people of all strata, he said.

Viet Nam always attached importance to ties with Southeast Asian neighbouring countries, he added.

The President said Viet Nam and Southeast Asian nations had been working closely together in a number of important fields such as national defence-security, economy, trade, investment, education-training, and people-to-people exchange, and expanding into new areas in the industry 4.0 era, such as innovation, digital transformation, digital connectivity, circular economy, green economy, clean energy, among others.

The host wished that ambassadors would serve as important bridges, contributing more to promoting friendship and cooperation between Viet Nam and ASEAN member states.

On the occasion of the traditional New Year of Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, Thailand and the Ramadan in Muslim countries, Thuong extended his warmest wishes to their leaders and people.  VNS
HAVANA  The official visit to Cuba from April 18-23 by National Assembly (NA) Chairman Vuong inh Hue will be an important contribution to strengthening, consolidating, expanding and deepening the bilateral relations in all fields, said Vietnamese Ambassador to Cuba Le Thanh Tung.

In an interview granted to the Vietnam News Agency on the threshold of the visit, Tung said that the visit would take place at a special time for Cuba as it successfully organised the election of legislators to its National Assembly of People's Power on March 26, on the 60th founding anniversary of the Cuban Committee for Solidarity with South Viet Nam, and the 50th anniversary of the first visit to Viet Nam by the leader of the Cuban Revolution, Commander in Chief Fidel Castro Ruz.

NA Chairman Hues trip to Cuba is the highest level by Vietnamese Party and State leaders in 2023. This is also the longest and will have the largest number of official activities, with more than 40 covering all aspects, from politics and diplomacy to economy, trade, investment and many others.

This trip would be a particularly important mark in the good relationship between Viet Nam and Cuba, stressed Tung.

NA Chairman Hue would also be the first foreign high-ranking leader to speak at the plenum of the Cuban National Assembly of People's Power, particularly a special session to establish a new National Assembly. "This demonstrates the fraternal solidarity, comprehensive cooperation and mutual trust between the Party, State and people of the two countries," he said.

During his stay, the top legislator of Viet Nam will hold talks and meet with top leaders of the Cuban Party and State. He will also pay a visit to Cuban revolution leader General Raul Castro Ruz.

He is scheduled to attend a bilateral business forum and events to launch Viet Nams cooperation and investment projects at Mariel special development zone and have meetings with representatives from several Cuban associations.

A lot of cooperation agreements, plans and programmes between the two sides would be signed during this visit, Tung said.

On this occasion, the two sides are expected to ink an agreement on inter-parliamentary collaboration, which will help lift the two parliaments relations to a new height with specific programmes, plans and targets of action.

The diplomat said Vietnamese businesses were paying more and more attention to the Cuban market, although it was now still under blockade. The increasing number of investment projects between the two countries in recent years was a testament to the continuous development of bilateral comprehensive cooperation based on fraternal friendship and mutual trust between the two countries leaders and peoples.

Beyond protocol

Also, in an interview granted to the Vietnam News Agency, Dr Ruvislei Gonzalez Saez, Vice President of the Cuba-Viet Nam Friendship Association, said that the visit would go beyond traditional protocol and receive attention from high-ranking leaders in the Caribbean nation.

For Cuba, welcoming a high-level leader from Viet Nam in Havana would not only be a political-diplomatic protocol but also a reunion between brothers, said the expert who is also Director of the Sectorial Programme of the International Relations in Cuba.

NA Chairman Hues visit is the fourth to Cuba by a top Vietnamese legislator in the 21st century.

He said that close and regular dialogues between the two parties and governments had created conditions for the two sides to strengthen mutual trust and understanding and share their experience in addressing challenges in the context of complicated world development and regional situation.

The mutual trust between Cuba and Viet Nam, nurtured by Cuban revolutionary leader Fidel Castro and President Ho Chi Minh, had enabled the two countries to maintain a common stance at bilateral and multilateral forums and support each other during the most difficult times.

According to the expert, although political and diplomatic relations between Cuba and Viet Nam have always been at the highest level, there remains a big room for the two sides to expand further cooperation with new mechanisms, especially economic, trade, and investment connections.

With its increasing presence in the Latin American and Caribbean regions, Viet Nam needs to have more knowledge about the regions to promote economic interests.

Meanwhile, Saez said that Cuba could serve as a bridge to help Viet Nam through diverse economic agreements within the framework of the Latin American Integration Association (ALADI) or the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

Viet Nam could also be a bridge for Cuba to connect with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Thanks to Viet Nams role as the ASEAN Chair in 2020 and the support of many other countries, Cuba became a member of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC) in 2020, he went on.

Furthermore, Cuba and Viet Nam could also step up cooperation in specific fields such as health care, biotechnology, environmental protection, tourism, customs services, public administration, socio-culture, and legal and academic issues; and enhance the twinning relationship between localities, Gonzalez Saez said, adding that Cuba could learn from Viet Nams experience in developing a socialist-oriented market economy.

Regarding bilateral cooperation during the COVID-19 pandemic, he mentioned the great potential for the two sides to boost cooperation in biotechnology and research on prevention and treatment protocols, saying that Cuba had successfully controlled the pandemic and was willing to share its experience with Viet Nam.  VNS
MOSCOW  The Viet Nam Week in Russia, spotlighting Viet Nam as a gateway to Asia, is underway in Moscow to beef up the nations friendship and cooperation.

Lasting from April 17 to 23, the event features eight roundtable discussions on economy, science and education, with participants talking about prospects for the bilateral engagements in the fields of banking, oil and gas exploration, health, and IT. On schedule are also lesson and practice sessions on Vietnams history, arts, and cuisine, among others.

At the opening ceremony, Russian Deputy Minister of Science and Higher Education Konstantin Mogilevsky said in his online speech that it was the first time such a week-long programme on cooperation with Viet Nam had been organised.

Mogilevsky informed participants that an alliance of Russian and Vietnamese technical universities was expected to be set up based on the coordination among the Viet Nam National University-Ha Noi, Moscow Aviation Institute, and Moscow Power Engineering Institute.

The alliance was expected to become a key factor in the nations educational cooperation, providing the Vietnamese industry with highly qualified human resources, he said.

The Russian official noted that the sides involved were considering the organisation of the 2nd Viet Nam-Russia university rectors forum in Moscow this autumn and a Russian week in Viet Nam.

Vietnamese Deputy Minister of Science and Technology Le Xuan inh said the event was a good chance for information exchange and cooperation between Vietnamese and Russian scientists and businessmen.

He believed it would bring Viet Nam closer to Russian friends and open up more opportunities for joint research projects in the time to come.  VNS
HA NOI  President Vo Van Thuong on Tuesday received the Ambassadors of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Sri Lanka and Chile to Viet Nam who came to present their credentials.

Welcoming UAE Ambassador Bader Almatrooshi, Thuong extended his best wishes to the diplomat during the holy month of Ramadan - the month of fasting for Muslims. He expressed his hope that the diplomat will act as a bridge boosting the two countries relations.

Bader Almatrooshi suggested the two countries promote cooperation in socio-culture and education.

The UAE is currently Viet Nam's leading trade partner in the Middle East, with annual two-way trade of US$8 billion, he said, adding that his country wants to expand collaboration with Viet Nam in various fields, as potential remains huge.

He proposed both sides step up high-level contacts to tighten political ties, especially on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

President Thuong stressed the need for appropriate measures to soon bring two-way trade to $10 billion, adding he hopes the UAE will promote investment in Viet Nam, particularly in education, culture and tourism.

At his reception for Sri Lankan Ambassador Sajeewa Umanga Mendis, Thuong affirmed that Viet Nam always attaches importance to developing its traditional friendship and multifaceted collaboration with Sri Lanka.

The Sri Lankan diplomat appreciated Viet Nam's socio-economic development achievements, and showed his hope that the two sides will maintain cooperation and experience sharing, and boost people-to-people exchanges.

Thuong emphasised the importance of promoting high-level contacts and people-to-people diplomacy to intensify friendship and mutual understanding; and stepping up the implementation of existing cooperation mechanisms.

They agreed to promote bilateral cooperation in trade and investment, and share experience in poverty reduction, human development, education, health and culture.

Receiving Chilean Ambassador Sergio Narea Guzman, the leader expressed his delight at the development of the Viet Nam-Chile relations through the regular exchange of delegations and people-to-people diplomacy.

The two sides also need to promote existing cooperation mechanisms, support each other at multilateral forums, and share views and visions on international and regional issues.

With a two-way trade of more than $2 billion, there remains ample room for bilateral cooperation, noted Thuong.

The Chilean ambassador expressed his hope that the two nations will expand collaboration in all fields, especially politics, economics and people-to-people exchanges.  VNS
TOKYO  A delegation of the Communist Party of Viet Nam (CPV), led by member of the Politburo and Head of the Party Central Committee's Economic Commission Tran Tuan Anh paid a working visit to Japan from April 13-18.

The Vietnamese official paid courtesy visits to Secretary-General of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) Toshimitsu Motegi, Chairman of Japanese Communist Party Kazuo Shii, Secretary-General of LDP in the House of Councillors Hiroshige Seko, Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi, and Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Yasutoshi Nishimura. He also had meetings with representatives of the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC), and the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), as well as officials of Hokkaido prefecture.

At the meetings and working sessions with the leaders of Japanese agencies and political parties, Tuan Anh expressed his joy at the strong, comprehensive, and substantive development of the Viet Nam-Japan relationship within the framework of the 'Extensive Strategic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity in Asia,' with a high level of political trust that is increasingly enhanced through high-level and regular exchanges.

The Party official emphasised that Viet Nam considers Japan as one of its foremost important economic partners which always supports and accompanies Vietnam in its international integration process and socio-economic development.

Viet Nam gives priority to developing relations with Japan, he affirmed, expressing the hope that the two sides will expand cooperation in various areas, including politics, economics, defence and security; and promote exchange and cooperation between the governments and stakeholders of the two countries.

He suggested the government and authorised agencies of Japan continue to support and create favourable conditions for the nearly 500,000 overseas Vietnamese living, working, and studying in Japan.

The official also proposed orientations for strengthening bilateral relations in the near future, including increasing the exchange of all-level delegations, fostering cooperation between the CPV and Japanese political parties, and introducing Vietnam's foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, multilateralisation and diversification of relations and international integration.

Both sides should deepen cooperation in various fields, especially in the economy, trade, and investment cooperation, he said.

He said he hopes Japan will continue to cooperate and support Viet Nam in implementing its three strategic breakthroughs, promoting the implementation of large-scale projects; developing Viet Nam's strategic infrastructure, strengthening connection between the two economies; and helping Viet Nam join deeply and effectively in new supply chains, speed up digital transformation and development of smart cities, and develop human resources, and respond to non-traditional security challenges.

He took the occasion to thank Japan for inviting Viet Nam to attend the 2023 G7 summit in Hiroshima in May this year.

For their part, the Japanese representatives expressed great appreciation and support for the development of friendship and cooperation between the two countries. They highlighted the significance of the Vietnamese officials visit in the context that the two countries are celebrating the 50th founding anniversary of diplomatic ties.

They congratulated Viet Nam on development achievements, affirming that Japan considers Viet Nam an important partner in its policy, and that cooperation with Viet Nam holds strategic significance.

Japan is willing to coordinate and exchange measures to strengthen bilateral and multilateral relations in areas that benefit both countries, contributing to elevating the Viet Nam-Japan Extensive Strategic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity in Asia to a new height, the hosts said.  VNS
HA NOI  President Vo Van Thuong handed over a decision appointing Deputy Foreign Minister Pham Quang Hieu as Vietnamese Ambassador to Japan and the Republic of Marshall Islands, during a ceremony held on Tuesday at the Presidential Palace in Ha Noi.

Hieu, who is also Chairman of the State Committee for Overseas Vietnamese Affairs, expressed his honour to receive the appointment in the year when the two countries are celebrating the 50th founding anniversary of the diplomatic ties, and the 10 years of the extensive strategic partnership.

He pledged to do his utmost to contribute to stepping up the bilateral relations during his tenure.

The diplomat promised to work hard on promoting cooperation in infrastructure investment and hi-tech development, digital and green transformation; and enhancing people-to-people exchange and relations between localities of the two countries.

Japan is one of Viet Nam's most important strategic partners in official development assistance (ODA), trade, and investment. The bilateral relationship has been constantly developing across fields.  VNS
HA NOI  The National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology (NIHE) has called for an intensified effort in COVID-19 vaccinations by provincial and municipal health sectors from now until June of this year.

In a letter addressed to provincial and municipal departments of health and centres for diseases control, NIHE has allocated 832,900 doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine with an expiry date between July 9 to 11, 2023.

The vaccine has been distributed to all 63 provinces and cities nationwide, and booster vaccinations are planned for individuals aged 18 years and above.

According to quick reports from localities, more than 266 million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been administered so far, with 51.6 million people aged 18 years and older have received their third dose, a rate of 81 per cent.

However, the rate does not equal across the country, and many localities have lower rates, below 80 per cent. This has led to 300,000 doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine left over (excluding 204,400 doses in the national stock).

In the first eight days this month, around 1,040 doses of vaccine were administered a day, leading to a high risk of not all doses being used.

To increase the coverage and effective use of the AstraZeneca vaccine, the NIHE asked localities to strengthen the vaccination against COVID-19, especially booster doses for people aged 18 years and older.

The target is at least 80 per cent of the population to receive booster doses.

If any locality needs more AstraZeneca vaccines, it should send a letter to the NIHE for supplies.

Speaking at the conference on COVID-19 pandemic prevention and control organised by the Ministry of Health in Quy Nhon City, Binh inh Province, last Friday, Deputy Minister of Health Nguyen Thi Lien Huong emphasised that COVID-19 vaccine supply was based on the proposal of provinces and cities.

She suggested that localities propose the exact vaccines they need.

Provinces and cities administering the COVID-19 vaccine for children from 12 to under 18 years old and children from five to under 12 years old should strive to achieve their targeted rate.

In the past week, Viet Nam recorded more than 2,600 new COVID-19 cases, an average of nearly 400 new cases per day.

For more than three and a half months, Viet Nam has not recorded any fatalities related to COVID-19.

Facing the recent increase in COVID-19 cases, Professor Phan Trong Lan, director of the General Department of Preventive Medicine, said that the number of COVID-19 cases might continue to increase.

But Viet Nam is now at pandemic level one, which is low risk. This level is assessed based on not only the number of cases but also the severe cases and vaccine coverage.

Lan said that scientists and the World Health Organisation forecasted that the SARS-CoV-2 virus still existed.

The next phase's goal is to reduce hospitalisations and deaths, avoid hospital overload and maintain pandemic prevention and control.

Therefore, one of the main tasks is to protect the elderly with underlying diseases and pregnant women. Those people should strictly follow preventive measures and receive enough vaccines as the Ministry of Health recommends.  VNS
Immigrant status troubles CNN writer, black mother

Xinhua) 14:36, April 18, 2023

NEW YORK, April 18 (Xinhua) -- Senior writer for CNN Digital Faith Karimi said she has been increasingly troubled by racism after her son was born, though she has lived in the United States for years and covered incidents of racism.

"I moved to the U.S. from Kenya. I never fully realized I was Black until I had a son," Karimi said in a CNN report on Monday.

"I had never worried about my blackness or looked at my life through the lens of race" in the first 20 years, Karimi said, adding that her status as an immigrant troubled her the most.

Karimi said black immigrants like her are part of a growing demographic.

A Pew study said over 4.6 million Black immigrants live in the United States, a jump from the roughly 800,000 in 1980.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Wu Chaolan)
Apple has something new for its Apple Card users.

The Cupertino-based tech giant recently announced that Apple Card users can now grow their Daily Cash rewards with a Savings account from Goldman Sachs, allowing them to get more with the feature.

Apple launched its Apple Card service in 2019 to "help customers lead a healthier financial life," per the company's statement. It offers customers a familiar experience with Apple Pay and the ability to manage their cards right on their devices.

Apple Card Savings Account Details

Apple mentioned in its announcement that Apple Card users in the US can open a savings account and earn interest starting Apr. 17 without paying any fees, giving no minimum deposits, and maintaining a minimum balance.

The savings account, which comes from Goldman Sachs, an investment banking company, offers a high-yield annual percentage yield (APY) of 4.15% - a rate more than ten times the national average. However, Apple does state in its footnotes that the APY may change at any time and that its 4.15% APY was true as of Apr. 14.

Additionally, the company stated that the average APY could change at any time, with the national average APY for savings accounts being at 0.24% around the time Apple launched its new savings account feature, per Bank Rate.

Read More: Meta Announces New Instagram Reels Features - Will They Make It Easier to Use?

Nevertheless, Jennifer Bailey, Apple's vice president of Apple Pay and Apple Wallet, stated that Appel's goal in launching this new feature is to "build tools that help users lead healthier financial lives, and building Savings into Apple Card in Wallet enables them to spend, send, and save Daily Cash directly and seamlessly - all from one place."

"Savings helps our users get even more value out of their favorite Apple Card benefit - Daily Cash - while providing them with an easy way to save money every day," Bailey said.

How Apple Card's Savings Account Works

Users shouldn't have to worry about their money going into their savings accounts as they're technically managed by Goldman Sachs, meaning that their balances are covered by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, per Tech Crunch.

Once an Apple Card user opens a savings account, all of the Daily Cash they earned will automatically go into the account, though they could change its destination at any time, and there's no limit on how much they can earn at a time.

To better capitalize on their savings accounts, users could even deposit additional funds into them through a linked bank account or from their Apple Cash balance. They will also have easy access to an easy-to-use Savings dashboard in Apple Wallet, allowing them to track their account balance and interest earned over time.

Interestingly, users who open a Savings account can withdraw and transfer funds from it to a linked bank account or to their Apple Cash card without paying any fees. However, users may want to keep a lookout on their balance as it cannot exceed the maximum limit of $250,000.

Related Article: Apple to Use 100% Recycled Metals for Its Components by 2025
HCM CITY  Authorities have proposed to name part of Ha Noi Highway, from the Sai Gon Bridge to Thu uc intersection, Vo Nguyen Giap Street.

The section is nearly 7.8km long.

The reason why the city authority proposed renaming the street was in recognition of the great merits of General Vo Nguyen Giap for the cause of national liberation and reunification.

At the same time, it shows the gratitude of the Party Committee, the city's government and People's Committee to the legendary general who made great contributions to the nation.

After the renaming, the road will be Ha Noi Highway  Vo Nguyen Giap  ien Bien Phu, creating a connection between historical events and historical figures  the ien Bien Phu campaign and General Vo Nguyen Giap.

So far, the process of naming and changing the names of streets has been carried out in line with the Governments Decree 91, which rules that only the Peoples Council, the legislative unit in each city and province, has the authority to decide the names of streets and public works.

Meanwhile, the executive unit of the Peoples Committee is in charge of consulting related units on coming up with suggestions for those names.

Vo Nguyen Giap, the first four-star general and the former commander-in-chief of the Vietnamese Army, died on October 4, 2013 at the 108 Army Hospital in Ha Noi.

He started his career as a history teacher before joining the army to become a legendary general who led the Vietnamese Army to defeat the French and US invaders in 1954 and 1975, respectively.  VNS
HA NOI  Studying, working, earning a living and pursuing success and happiness are the dreams of people with disabilities.

It is also the consistent motto of our Party and State, which has paid much attention and allocated resources to help nearly seven million people with disabilities in the country to have a better life.

Nguyen Van Trung and Huynh Thi Ngoc Uyen, owners of Trung Uyen Blind Massage Centre at Lane 101 ao Tan Road in Ha Noi, are among the typical people who have overcome their inferiority and achieved a bright future for themselves.

The couple provides acupressure services. They also offer free vocational training and create jobs for people with similar circumstances.

Every day, the couples centre welcomes about 100 guests seeking massage, acupressure, and lathering services each day.

Uyen was born in 1982 in a poor village in central Quang Ngai Province. She lived with her grandparents and an older brother.

At age seven, her eyes suddenly blurred due to degenerative retinal disease. All activities of Uyen depended on her older brother.

However, when Uyen was ten years old, her brother passed away after being bitten by a venomous snake. Despite these hardships, Uyen remained strong-willed and strived to improve herself.

In 2000, she began to learn Braille and then went to Ha Noi to study reflexology at the rehabilitation centre of the Vietnam Blind Association. She met Trung, who was in the same situation and later became her life partner.

"At that time, we had to overcome many barriers and prejudices to be together," Uyen said. "After learning the profession and doing it for a while, we realised the potential of massage and decided to establish our own business."

It was a challenging journey to make their dream come true.

In the early days, Uyen borrowed money from all her relatives and collected every penny to purchase equipment. The couple worked all day and read books and documents in Braille about massage skills at night.

Thanks to their effort to improve skills and their enthusiastic and attentive service, the centre has become increasingly popular, creating stable jobs for 12 visually impaired employees with monthly incomes of between VN8-15 million.

"Starting a business is difficult, but with our efforts to overcome difficulties and perfect ourselves, we have fulfilled our dreams," Trung said.

"When we welcome a new employee, we always talk about our own circumstances. We hope to convey our message that they can become valuable to their family and society as long as they work hard and persevere, Uyen said.

Pham Thi Thuy, an employee at the centre, was born blind and used to depend on her family. Her life has changed since she received training at Trung and Uyens centre.

I have had macular degeneration and retinal vein occlusion since childhood. My life was very difficult," she said. "Eight years ago, I learned about acupressure and was taught the profession by Trung and Uyen.

Since then, I have been working an average of 8 to 10 hours a day, earning a stable income of VN10 million per month," Thuy said. "This job is very suitable for the visually impaired like me."

Rising in life

Nguyen Thi Kim Khanh, chairman of the Ba inh Districts Blind Association, said massage is one of the suitable professions for visually impaired people. It provides a stable income for the visually impaired but also gives them the confidence to rise in life.

Currently, Ha Noi has about 100 facilities run by the visually impaired, creating stable jobs and incomes for thousands of other visually impaired people.

Apart from Trung and Uyens business, theres another business model in Ba inh District. Nhan ao Massage Centre, with annual revenue of over VN200 million, has created stable incomes for seven visual-impaired members.

Khanh said people with disabilities always strive to work and reduce dependence on others, although there are many unfavourable conditions regarding health conditions and suitable jobs.

"In addition to jobs such as massage, acupuncture, embroidery and making toothpicks and brooms, there are new trends in vocational training to the visually impaired, such as telesales," she said. "The association has opened classes to create more job opportunities for members.

There are 169 visual-impaired persons in the district.

ang Van Thanh, deputy chairman of the Vietnam Federation on Disability, said to the Vietnam News Agency on the occasion of Viet Nam Disability Day (April 18) that it is necessary to create the best conditions for people with disabilities to be able to integrate equally into the community.

Thanh said: "I think the most important thing for people with disabilities is to eliminate their self-doubt, erase their insecurity, and integrate into the community.

He said one of the obstacles and limitations is the perception of some people in society, even the family of people with disabilities, and the perception of people with disabilities themselves. In addition, some officials enforcing disability-related policies also have limitations in understanding and implementing the policies.

People with disabilities still face limited access to transportation, construction work, and certain policies. These limitations have affected their daily activities, creating barriers for them to integrate into the community fully.

To overcome these limitations, Thanh said the federation would promote and monitor the implementation of laws and international conventions and other support policies for people with disabilities in the coming years.

It will continue reviewing these policies to identify policy gaps and make recommendations to policy-making agencies, the National Assembly, and the Government for policy revisions, including the Law on People with Disabilities.

In the future, the federation will gather information from organisations and people with disabilities and make recommendations for amending the Law on People with Disabilities to help them better access the policies of the Party and the State, he added.  VNS
HA NOI  Professor Phan Trong Lan, the Director of the Department of Preventive Medicine under the Ministry of Health (MoH), has warned the number of COVID-19 cases has been rapidly increasing since the start of April.

This announcement was made during a pandemic prevention and combat conference held on Monday in Ha Noi.

During the first week of April, Viet Nam recorded 278 cases; however, the second week saw 2,000 new cases.

On April 17 alone, the country documented 1,031 new cases - the highest number reported in nearly six months.

Over the first three months of this year, the nation reported 2,070 new cases, averaging 160 cases per week.

However, no fatalities have been documented over the past 108 days. The total number of deaths due to COVID-19 was 43,186, or 0.4 per cent of the total infections.

Regarding the treatment of COVID-19 patients, Nguyen Trong Khoa, Deputy Director of the Department of Medical Examination and Treatment under the MoH, said the department was coordinating with experts to review treatment guidelines.

Nguyen Thanh Ha, deputy director of the National Hospital for Tropical Diseases, said the number of patients of the pandemic being hospitalised had been rising remarkably since the beginning of April.

The hospital received 47 cases in the first week and 85 in the second week. On April 17 afternoon, it treated 146 cases, including 21 severe ones.

Minister of Health ao Hong Lan requested an early meeting of the professional council to review and update treatment guidelines and dissemination.

Units were asked to review the contents relating to licensing, procurement, allocating and transferring equipment, drugs and vaccines in line with their assigned tasks to take the initiative in pandemic prevention.

The dissemination of messages on COVID-19 prevention and control should be sped up to raise peoples awareness of the issue, particularly their compliance with the 2K message  khau trang (facemask) and khu khuan (disinfection).

Also on Monday, at an online briefing conference of the Ha Noi People's Committee with administrations in districts on disease prevention and control, Deputy Director of the Ha Noi Department of Health Vu Cao Cuong said that the number of COVID-19 cases in the city was presently increasing rapidly.

The capital city recorded nearly 500 positive cases within just a week from April 7 to April 14, representing a seven-fold rise compared to the previous week, bringing the total number of infected cases to 756 since the beginning of the year.

Through gene sequencing of the SARS-CoV-2 virus with some COVID-19 cases, the health agency discovered the presence of a new COVID-19 variant, XBB.1.5, which was spreading rapidly throughout many countries, including the UK, Germany, USA, France, Singapore, and the Philippines.

Therefore, the Ha Noi CDC had requested that relevant units continue to closely monitor the disease to promptly prevent a possible outbreak amid the pandemics unpredictable developments worldwide, especially as COVID-19 is constantly mutating with new variants and sub-variants emerging.

Deputy Director of the city's Department of Health Cuong said during the week, the number of cases kept increasing compared to the previous week. The COVID-19 pandemic might still be complicated and unpredictable because the virus has constantly changed to create new variants capable of spreading quickly, avoiding the immune system.

Therefore, peoples negligent attitude towards the disease would fail in prevention and control tasks.

Vice Chairman of Ha Noi People's Committee Vu Thu Ha noted people would travel extensively during the long upcoming holidays of April 30 and May 1, so localities and health authorities must take heed of disease prevention and control, especially the COVID-19 epidemic.

At the same time, localities should pay special attention to the elderly, people with underlying diseases, immunocompromised people, children and pregnant women.

Given the situation, many provinces have ordered close watch and supervision of COVID-19 cases and preparations of human resources and medical facilities for serious cases, if any.  VNS
HA NOI  The former director of Ha Noi Heart Hospital has been told he will face between four and five years in prison for violating regulations on bidding, causing serious consequences.

The recommendation to jail Nguyen Quang Tuan, 56, was proposed by a representative of the People's Procuracy of Ha Noi.

Tuan and other defendants are accused of causing more than VN53.6 billion (US$2.2 million) in damages to Ha Noi Heart Hospital and the Social Insurance Fund.

Under the indictment, 11 other defendants were recommended to face sentencing of 24 months on probation to four years in prison.

The Peoples Procuracy recommended to sentence Hoang Thi Ngoc Huong, 62, former deputy director of the hospital, 30-36 months in prison; Nguyen Thi Dung Hanh, 54, former chief accountant of the hospital and head of the hospitals finance and accounting office, 24-30 months in prison; oan Trong Binh, 63, former deputy head of the hospitals Medical Supplies Office, 30-36 months in prison; Nghiem Tuan Linh, 43, former deputy head of the hospitals Medical Supplies Office, 30-42 months in prison.

The Peoples Procuracy also recommended to sentence Nguyen uc ang, 47, former chairman of the Board of Directors of Hoang Nga Medical Equipment Joint Stock Company, from three years and a half to four years in prison; Pham Huy Lap, 71, former director of the company, 24-30 months on probation; and Pham Thi Kim Oanh, former chief accountant of the company, 24-30 months in prison.

The Peoples Procuracy suggested to sentence Phan Tuan at, 56, former chairman of the Board of Directors and former deputy director of Kim Hoa Phat Biotechnology Joint Stock Company, 24  30 months on probation.

It also suggested to sentence Tran Phu Hung, 47, former deputy general director of AIC  Viet Nam Valuation and Investment Joint Stock Company, 30-36 months in prison; Nguyen Hong Dung, 41, former deputy general director of the company, 24-30 months in prison; and Nguyen Trung Dung, 34, appraiser of the company, 24-30 months in prison.

Indictment

The indictment announced that since 2015, Tuan allowed the two companies to send medical supplies to be used in advance by the hospital. Tuan, ang and at knew each other before.

After extensive bidding procedures were legitimately completed, shortened bidding was designated, and Tuan approved the decision for these two companies to win the contract for extensive packages in 2016 and four designated packages in 2017.

Defendants Tuan, Huong, Hanh, Linh and Binh abused their positions to intervene in bidding activities illegally.

These people colluded with the defendants at the two companies to carry out many violations from the bidding dossier, unit price, type, quantity of stents, and other medical supplies.

The defendants at the hospital colluded with the defendants at AIC - Viet Nam Valuation and Investment Joint Stock Company to issue appraisal certificates at the request and a fixed price of the hospital, which Tuan approved.

This ensured that the two companies won the bids and sold medical equipment in violation of the Procurement Law, causing more than VN53.6 billion ($2.2 million) in damages to the hospital and the Social Insurance Fund in all five bidding packages mentioned above.

The prosecutor at the trial on Tuesday said that the indictment prosecuting the defendants in the case was correct.

Among the defendants, Tuan held the highest position, had knowledge in professional work and bidding procedures and he was mainly responsible for the entire operation of the hospital, the prosecutor said.

Therefore, he must bear the highest responsibility for the violations, the prosecutor said.

However, the representative of the Peoples Procuracy evaluated that during the investigation and at the trial, Tuan was sincere, especially repentant and actively re-mediate the consequences. He already returned US$10,000 that he received from Hoang Nga Medical Equipment Joint Stock Company and VN6 billion ($256,000) to remedy the consequences.

The Peoples Procuracy recognised that Tuan "had excellent achievements during his work and he was awarded the title of People's Doctor", contributing to the development of the country, so he should be considered to reduce the punishment.

Tuan is ordered to be jointly responsible for compensating for the damage to the hospital.  VNS
Australias Minister for Trade and Tourism Don Farrell (left) and Vietnamese Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Chi Dung at the meeting on Monday in Ha Noi.  VNA/VNS Photo Tuan Duc

Australian investors are operating 593 projects in Viet Nam with a total registered capital of approximately US$2 billion while Vietnamese businesses have invested $500 million in Australia.

Speaking at the third ministerial-level Viet Nam-Australia Economic Partnership Meeting, held on Monday in Ha Noi, Australias Minister for Trade and Tourism Don Farrell said the Australia-Viet Nam Enhanced Economic Engagement Strategy (EEES) with the goal of boosting trade and investment is ambitious.

Especially, for investment, the goal is to double the current figure, he said.

The field of cooperation is not only economic investment but also investment in other fields, such as education and training, development cooperation, tourism and agriculture, he said.

In terms of development cooperation, Australia is one of the major non-refundable Official Development Assistance (ODA) donors for Viet Nam. According to the announcement of the Australian Embassy, in 2022-23, Australia has increased ODA for Viet Nam by 18 per cent, from AUD78.9 million ($52.9 million) to AUD92.8 million ($62.2 million).

The Australian Government's ODA for Viet Nam focuses mainly on innovation; supporting the development and effective use of a highly skilled workforce; strengthening the economic empowerment of women, including ethnic minorities; responding to the COVID-19 pandemic; creating favourable conditions for and attracting the participation of the private sector in socio-economic development.

At the meeting, Vietnamese Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Chi Dung said that after 50 years of establishing diplomatic relations, Viet Nam and Australia have become important leading economic partners of each other in many fields, from trade, investment, development cooperation, and agriculture, as well as education and training.

Australia is ranked 20th out of 143 countries and territories investing in Viet Nam, focusing on the fields of processing industry, manufacturing, accommodation and catering services, agriculture, forestry and fishery, he said.

Besides, Vietnamese enterprises have now invested $500 million in Australia, he said.

Data revealed at the meeting showed that the trade scale between the two countries reached $15.7 billion by the end of 2022, about 26.9 per cent higher than the figure of 2021.

Australia is Viet Nam's 7th largest trading partner.

Specifically, by the end of last year, Viet Nam's export turnover to Australia reached $5.6 billion while Viet Nam's import turnover from Australia reached $10.1 billion, a year on year increase of 26.2 per cent and 27.3 per cent, respectively.

Viet Nam's export products to Australia include mainly machinery, equipment, footwear, textiles, seafood, iron and steel.

Australia is an important supplier of raw materials for Viet Nams production such as coal, cotton, ores and minerals, and wheat.

In terms of education and training, according to statistics from the Australian Department of Education, Viet Nam ranked fifth among countries and territories sending their students to Australia. As of December 2022, there are more than 22,000 Vietnamese students studying and researching at Australian educational institutions.

Minister Dung called for more investment from Australia and suggested that the Australian side coordinate with Viet Nam to develop the bilateral relations in a more balance manner, and support Viet Nam in trade promotion activities and introducing more products, especially agro-fisheries products in Australia.

The two sides should work closer in new cooperation areas such as innovation, green and renewable energy, circular and high-tech agriculture as well as culture and tourism, he said.

For his part, Farrell affirmed that cooperation between Australia and Viet Nam has been fruitful in all fields, especially trade, investment, education and training. He said he believes that the meeting will open up new development orientations for the Viet Nam-Australia partnership.

At the meeting, the two sides discussed and proposed measures to strongly promote Viet Nam-Australia economic relations and assessed the implementation of the strategy and the results of the meetings of the two sides Working Groups on ODA, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and trade.

The two sides also listened to the comments and recommendations of Vietnamese and Australian businesses to promote the business environment.

In addition, they discussed co-operation between the two countries in multilateral and regional forums of Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN), Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation (APEC), World Trade Organisation (WTO), Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Area (AANZFTA), and Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF).

The meeting was organised while the two countries are holding many activities to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Viet Nam and Australia (1973-2023).

Participants agreed to organise the fourth Viet Nam-Australia Economic Partnership Meeting in Australia in a convenient time.

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Delegates visit a photo exhibition on the sidelines of the conference.  VNA/VNS Photo Van Diep

Addressing the 12th Viet Nam-France decentralised cooperation conference, which took place in Ha Noi from April 13-16, Ngoc noted that Viet Nam has launched the national strategy on green growth and stepped up economic restructuring in tandem with growth model reform, environmental sustainability and social equality.

As a result, great potential and opportunities remain for Viet Nam and France to boost their cooperation in the future, she said.

Viet Nam also encourages and prioritises quality, focusing on calling for foreign investments, especially in high-tech, innovation, green energy, renewable energy, finance, banking, healthcare, high-quality personnel training, infrastructure, and pharmaceuticals.

They are the areas where France has strengths, and the two economies would be reciprocal, the official added.

Briefing the participants on Viet Nams socio-economic development, Ngoc said it has been named among the top 20 countries in terms of FDI attraction and the 20 biggest economies worldwide.

Regarding the Viet Nam-France relationship, Ngoc called trade, economic and investment ties as pillars of their strategic partnership and traditional friendship.

France ranks 16 out of the 143 countries and territories investing in Viet Nam with more than US$3.8 billion. Their two-way trade reached $5.33 billion last year, of which Viet Nams export to the European nation was valued at $3.7 billion.

France is also one of Viet Nams first and biggest official development assistance (ODA) suppliers in Europe, she said, stressing that Viet Nam is an active, responsible member of ASEAN and Asia-Pacific, while France is a key member of the European Union, and both are members of the Francophone community and the EU-Viet Nam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA).

These are important foundations and premises for the two countries to expand cooperation and boost trade and investment ties between the two countries, Ngoc continued.

The official stressed that the 12th Viet Nam-France decentralised cooperation conference has offered effective solutions to raise the role of localities in promoting investment links between the two countries.

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Vietnam and Austria aim to increase bilateral trade to US$4 billion in the near future, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and Austrian Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg said at a meeting on April 17.

Vietnam's Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh (right) meets Austrian Minister of Foreign Affairs Alexander Schallenberg on April 17. Photo: Vietnam News Agency

Austria now ranks among Vietnam's top 10 European trading partners. In 2022, bilateral trade was worth US$2.8 billion, with Vietnam exporting nearly US$2.5 billion worth of products to the European nation.

Welcoming the first Austrian Foreign Minister to arrive in Vietnam, Prime Minister Chinh said Austria is an important member state of the European Union (EU) and Vietnam hopes to strengthen its ties with the European nation.

To achieve the projected trade target, PM Chinh expected Vietnamese and Austrian businesses to consolidate their operations and seize the opportunities brought by the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA).

The Vietnamese leader also urged Austria to ratify the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA) and help the European Commission (EC) remove the "yellow card" on Vietnamese fishery exports.

"Drastic measures are needed to boost bilateral cooperation in certain fields such as science and technology, infrastructure development, vocational training, digital transformation, and green transition," PM Chinh added.

He called on the Austrian government to facilitate market access for Vietnamese exports such as electronics, footwear, and agricultural and aquatic products.

"With a long history and rich culture, there is great potential for Vietnam and Austria to develop partnerships in culture, art, music, and tourism," he said.

He also expected local authorities in Austria to create favorable conditions for overseas Vietnamese and encourage them to contribute to the prosperity of both nations.

At the meeting, Prime Minister Chinh appreciated the support of the Austrian people and government for Vietnam's socio-economic development and the fight against Covid-19.

He wished the two nations to strengthen political ties and organize more high-level official talks to boost cooperation in various fields.

For his part, Minister of Foreign Affairs Alexander Schallenberg said Austrian enterprises are keen to set up their local businesses in Vietnam to take advantage of the country's advantages in market development, human resources, and business environment.

The Austrian official agreed to strengthen bilateral ties in human resources development through agreements signed between the two governments, universities, and enterprises.

Austria regards Vietnam as a priority partner in the region and looks forward to expanding bilateral relations in all potential areas on the basis of long-term friendly relations, he said.

The two sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in multilateral talks, sharing the same view of a peaceful and secure environment in the East Sea (South China Sea), and giving priority to peaceful measures to settle disputes in accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOSE) adopted in 1982.

Diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Austria were established on December 1, 1972, two months before the signing of the Paris Peace Accords in 1973.

Hanoi Times
Passengers board a train on the Ha Noi-HCM Railway.  VNA/VNS Photo Hoang Hieu

The East Japan Railway Company (JRC), a heavyweight in Japanese railway, sent a letter to the Ministry of Transport expressing interest in two domestic projects; one to upgrade the Ha Noi-Hai Phong Railway and the other to build a new railway leading to the Hai Phong International Port.

The Japanese company made an on-site visit on June 2022 and held a meeting with the ministry on this occasion. In the meeting, a JRC representative requested a go-ahead from the ministry to conduct a feasibility study for the projects.

"Given the high demand for the transportation of goods and passengers between Hai Phong and Ha Noi, the two projects seem feasible and profitable," said the representative.

In another meeting with the ministry, the Ambassador of Spain to Viet Nam, Pilar Mendez Jimenez, said Spain is keen on cooperating with Viet Nam in the development of high-speed railway lines. She also revealed that her country is home to the world's second-longest high-speed railway system, with over 30 lines.

Meanwhile, World Bank expressed its desire to collaborate with Viet Nam in the North-South Express Railway.

Although scores of foreign investors are eager to come on board, some obstacles still need to be overcome to ensure their easy ride.

Luu Quang Lam, chairman of the Investment Mining Port JSC, said the Government's policy to unlock private investments in the railway sector is on point. However, administrative procedures need to be made clearer and more transparent to bring the policy to great effect.

Transportation expert Nguyen Xuan Thuy shared this view, saying that transparency is the key to private investment, which would fill the gap left by public investment in the sector.

According to the Vietnam Railway Authority, the scheme to mobilise private investment for the sector has culminated with only one finished project by late 2022 after ten years of implementation. All other projects have attracted investors' interest but have yet to be realised.

The unsuccessful scheme was because relevant authorities failed to draw up instructions on how to implement favourable policies in the sector. Without favourable policies, investors are reluctant to get involved in railway projects, which normally require huge initial outlays yet yield low-profit margins.

Investors expect that Conclusion No.49 on the development of the railway sector until 2030 with a vision to 2045 would help to turn the situation around, drawing more investors in the unfinished projects.

"The Conclusion would lay the groundwork for the revitalisation of the sector, which has been on the decline for quite a while," said the head of the Vietnam Railway and Economic Association.

According to the Ministry of Transport, the railway sector, with no new lines built over the past years, is gradually losing its market shares to other means of transport.

The Party has had to put the sector on its ten-year agenda to prevent the loss of market shares, with priority being given to the Noth-South Express Railway and some urban rail transit projects in Ha Noi and HCM City.

Under the ministry's estimation, the sector needs around VND240 trillion (US$10.2 billion) of investment until 2030, of which over VND46 trillion for upgrading existing railway systems, VND112 trillion for the construction of high-speed railway lines, and around VND80 trillion for traditional lines.

Minister Nguyen Van Thang revealed that the ministry is calling for more public money to be spent on large-scale railway projects to cut logistics costs for firms between 2021 and 2025.

The projects to benefit from the increased public investment would include the rail lines connecting the national railway to Lach Huyen Port, those connecting the national railway to the Chinese railway in Lao Cai Province, and those connecting the Trang Bom rail lines to Cai Mep-Thi Vai Port.

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Vietnam has announced plans to transition all buses and taxis in the country from petrol-powered vehicles to electric ones to help protect the environment.

According to a decision by the prime minister on green energy transition and emission reduction, from 2025, all replacement buses must be electric-powered, and from 2030, all replacement taxis must be electric.

The Green and Smart Mobility Joint Stock Company (GSM) has become the first taxi service provider to use electric cars in Vietnam. The companys CEO, Nguyen Van Thanh, has confirmed plans to operate the service in at least five major Vietnamese cities and is currently in discussions with partners in Southeast Asia to expand its fleet to around 10,000 electric cabs.

In the first phase of the operation, GSM will deploy 500 GreenCars and 100 LuxuryCars in Hanoi, using the VF 5 Plus model. Thanh has claimed that the introduction of Green SM will improve the service quality of the entire taxi industry in Vietnam, similar to the positive impact that the VinBus electric bus system has had on the public bus sector.

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The GreenCar service costs VND20,000 ($0.85) for the first kilometer, followed by VND14,000 ($0.6) per kilometer for the next 24 kilometers, or VND15,500 ($0.7) per kilometer for the VF e34 vehicle. The respective fares are VND12,000 ($0.51) and VND12,500 ($0.53) each kilometer for the rest of the drive. The LuxuryCar service will charge customers a fixed VND21,000 ($0.9) per kilometer for the entire journey.

The deputy chairman of the Peoples Committee of Hanoi, Nguyen Manh Quyen, has praised the implementation of electric taxi services in Hanoi for contributing to the fulfillment of Vietnams greenhouse gas emission reduction commitments.

Nguyen Cong Hung, chairman of the Hanoi Taxi Association, has assessed that environmentally-friendly electric cars will become an inevitable trend, given the increasing cost of petrol. However, the lack of charging infrastructure and high investments are significant barriers to the transition to electric taxis.

The Hanoi Taxi Association has urged the government to create preferential mechanisms and policies to encourage the use of electric taxis. Many countries around the world have subsidized car purchase prices for bus operators and bus manufacturers since buses remain a low-profit public utility service.
HCMC  Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha has asked representatives of the UK and the European Union to share their experience and technologies in clean energy transition with Vietnam.

He also sought support in developing smart grids, increasing the proportion of renewable energy, and ensuring the balance and stability of the energy system, all of which are expected to pave the way for Vietnam to orient toward a green fuel manufacturer in the Asia-Pacific region.

The request was made during his meeting with the UKs special envoy on climate change and Principal Adviser on Energy Diplomacy at the EU held yesterday, April 17, according to the Government portal baochinhphu.vn.

Vietnam has made a commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, Ha said, adding that the Southeast Asian country considered the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) a critical channel to receive technological and financial support from developed countries in energy transition.

The UK and the EU also expressed their willingness to support Vietnam in technical expertise and technology within the framework of JETP, pledging to further promote investment in Vietnam in the coming time.

The JETP will mobilize an initial US$15.5 billion of public and private finance over the next three to five years to support Vietnams green transition.

The partnership would support the country in achieving its ambitious net zero goal by 2050, help the nation peak its emissions by 2030, five years earlier than planned, and enable it to wean itself off fossil fuels and switch to clean energy.
From left, actors Jin Seon-kyu, Jun Jong-seo and Chang Ryul pose during an interview with reporters at Cannes, France, Sunday. Courtesy of Tving



By Lee Gyu-lee



The Tving series "Bargain" made history when it became Korea's first streaming service original series to compete at this year's Cannes International Series Festival, held from April 14 to 19 in Cannes, France.



Ahead of the winners' announcement, scheduled for Wednesday, the lead actors of the series shared their overwhelming excitement for the series' milestone, saying it is a dream come true.



"Coming to Cannes is an honor I'll pass down to my family," actor Jin Seon-kyu, who played the character of Noh Hyung-soo, said during an online interview with The Korea Times, Sunday. "Spending each day here is heart flattering and exciting. I'm excited to see how global audiences will react to 'Bargain.'"



Adapted from a 2015 award-winning short film of the same name by filmmaker Lee Chung-hyeon, the thriller disaster series follows three survivors trapped in a motel building after an earthquake. Noh has come to the motel with a young woman, Park Joo-young (Jun Jong-seo), who is masquerading as a sex worker with the true intention of stealing and selling his organs.



Just as Noh's fate reaches fever pitch, an earthquake hits, leaving him, Park and a desperate organ buyer named Ko Keuk-ryul (Chang Ryul) trapped and pitted against one another in a game of survival.





A scene from the series "Bargain" / Courtesy of Tving



Jin expressed that the series' recognition came due to its striking cinematography and its unique characters.



"Compared to other nominated series, I felt our series tends to be more unconventional in terms of genre. I think people have responded to the series' one-take filming technique and the unique characters within the story," Jin said. "Also, (the series) puts the viewer in the characters' point of view and makes them feel as if they are playing a virtual reality game, trying to escape. It puts them in the character's shoes, which makes it more interesting."



The series scored the highest number of unique visitors at the time of its release last November, the number of subscribers logging in to watch specific content in the first week of its release among all of Tving's original series.



It garnered acclaim for its massive one-take scenes, as well as the interesting portrayals of human nature under extreme circumstances.





From left, actor Jin Seon-kyu, director Jeon Woo-sung, actors Jun Jong-seo and Chang Ryul pose during the pink carpet event at Cannes International Series Festival, held from April 14 to 19 in Cannes, France, Sunday. Courtesy of Tving
In response to recent scandals, the Insurance Supervision and Administration Department (Ministry of Finance) collaborated with companies' representatives on April 17 in the afternoon.At the meeting, the Insurance Supervision and Administration Department directed businesses to seriously publicize information about insurance operations, especially what customers need to pay attention to with each product.Read more: Few takers for life insurance in Vietnam This agency also appoints enterprises to control the information stated in the sales illustration and product introduction documents. "Enterprises must strictly handle insurance agents who arbitrarily change information in these documents, confuse customers, and expect insurance benefits to be inconsistent with reality," the unit said.To assist participants to understand how death, major sickness, etc. will be compensated for, the table displays insurance benefits. Benefits like dividends and return value are often only examples.Read more: Top 10 prestigious insurance companies in Vietnam in 2021 announced The illustration is quite complicated but is an important document to understand the benefits, especially in terms of cash flow, but is often ignored or not consulted by customers. Some dishonest consulting agents take advantage of this ignorance by making promises like earning adequate principal and interest after 510 years.Read more: Insurance enterprises should list on the stock market: MoF Before recent cases, the Insurance Supervision and Administration Department advised firms to review insurance contracts to ensure they are appropriate for the client's financial situation and risk tolerance.Insurance companies should reassess agent training, especially for those who received it online.Read more: Insurance in Vietnam - statistics & facts For agents who violate, insurance companies are required to strengthen sanctions and strictly handle them. In this point, according to Mr. Ngo Trung Dung, Deputy General Secretary of the Insurance Association, businesses have never paid attention, especially with cross-selling channels through banks. "Many businesses have been reported to have made mistakes in the consulting stage at the bancassurance channel, but they have not been able to intervene," Dung said. At this afternoon's meeting, the Insurance Supervision Administration also appointed the company to announce a hotline, with standing departments with competent officials to receive, answer, and definitively handle customers' inquiries. Enterprises need to settle insurance benefits in a timely manner to avoid delays.With regard to applications reflecting violations of insurance agents under the jurisdiction of the proceedings and judgment enforcement agencies, the enterprise is obliged to transfer the information to the competent authorities.Also read: Bao hiem hai chieu o to: phi bao hiem, quyen loi va kinh nghiem mua bao hiem
Agrotourism is said to drive Vietnam's post-pandemic tourism. (Photo source: vneconomy.vn)

Hanoi  Agricultural and rural tourism has been considered a new direction, bringing fresh air to rural areas in Vietnam, according to experts.

The type of tourism is a new direction in line with the countrys strategy of agricultural economic development towards green agriculture.

According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Vietnam now has more than 1,300 tourist sites under the management of local administrations, about 70 per cent of the sites are in rural areas. They are considered an important resource to promote rural development, create jobs and incomes for people, promote rural economic restructuring, and preserve traditional cultural values.

The northern province of Ha Giang is one of the first localities in Vietnam to develop rural tourism, aiming to improve people's living conditions and develop new-style rural areas.

For years, the province has implemented programmes and policies to support people to develop community-based cultural tourism models.

Ha Giang has focused on investing in infrastructure, renovating the landscape, and preserving the traditional cultural values of ethnic groups.

Up to now, electricity is available to all of its cultural and tourist villages, cars can reach villages and the provincial authorities funded more than 16 billion VND (680,500 USD) to build proper toilets at 272 households that offer homestay services.

The province also regularly opens training courses to improve tourism skills for local people.

Sin Di Gai, head of Lo Lo Chai village in Ha Giang province, said that 32 households in the village now offer homestay services to about 1,000 guests monthly.

Thanks to the accommodation services, the households earn 10-30 million VND monthly. Other households provide auxiliary services such as growing vegetables, raising black pigs or chickens, and planting buckwheat flowers for tourism purposes.

With prosperous tourism business, the villages poverty rate has reduced from 80 per cent to nearly 10 per cent now.

Localities in the southern province of Ben Tre have also developed rural tourism.

In Ben Tre citys Nhon Thanh commune, homestay services have appeared since 2008. Now, the commune has 11 establishments, which can serve 1,500 visitors per day and provide rooms for up to 250 guests daily.

Huynh Van Muoi, owner of Muoi No homestay and one of the first farmers in the commune to switch from agricultural production to tourism, said that when he started his tourism business, he learned everything from how to receive guests, speak English to preparing foods.

Muoi said that the value of his agricultural products sold to tourists is three times higher than that sold to traders.

He converted all of his 8,000 sq.m of farming land to building tourist areas and homestays for guests. He earns ten times higher than growing sedges and making mats.

Tourism is gradually becoming an important economic sector of Nhon Thanh commune in particular and Ben Tre city in general.

Vice chairman of the People's Committee of Ben Tre city Nguyen Van Thuong said that agriculture and rural tourism contribute more and more to the economic development of rural communes. It helps create new jobs, boost production and trade. As a result, tourism activities help to improve incomes and quality of life for local people.

The positive impacts of agricultural and rural tourism prove its effectiveness in the development of the household economy in particular, the rural economy, and agriculture in general.

However, according to Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Le Minh Hoan, many models are still spontaneous, without making differences, and lack linkages.

Many tourist destinations have not cooperated with each other yet and not interested in sharing benefits with the community, he said.

Promotion, connection, and consulting activities have not been oriented, he said, adding that supporting mechanisms and policies have not become a driving force to develop a tourism industry that brings both economic and social values. Synchronous solutions are needed to help the tourism sector reach sustainable values, Hoan added.

Experts suggests solutions to develop farm produce, rural tourism in Mekong Delta Training on free trade agreements are among the measures suggested for the development of the farm produce market and rural tourism in the Mekong Delta.

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The scene of the bomb blast.(Photo source: philstar.com)

Manila - A homemade bomb ripped through a bus in the southern Philippines on April 17, injuring at least eight people, a military spokesperson said.

Army Major Andrew Linao of the Western Mindanao Command said the bomb went off as the bus with an unspecified number of passengers rolled into the transport terminal around 12:20 pm (local time) in Isulan town in Sultan Kudarat province.

The victims, aged 13 to 60, suffered injuries and were taken to a local hospital for treatment, Linao said, adding that no group has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Philippines, Japan agree to boost economic, security cooperation President of the Philippines Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida agreed to strengthen economic and security cooperation between the two countries.
It also aims to serve Vietnam-based businesses to optimise their supply chain, boost accessibility of logistics operations, and improve customer experience and efficiency.

Home to more than 900,000 small- and medium enterprises and sitting at the heart of the AsiaPacific region, Vietnam has long been a major transportation and logistics hub for domestic and multinational corporations to reach major markets in Asia.

Bolstered by the country's strong GDP growth rate in 2022, thriving e-commerce, and strong manufacturing activities, the logistics and warehouse industry contributed 4.5 per cent to Vietnam's GDP and is poised to grow at a compound annual growth rate of over 6.69 per cent until 2029.

However, despite its massive potential, the logistics, and warehousing sector in Vietnam still faces tremendous challenges due to lack of high-quality facilities, limited services, high costs, and insufficient infrastructure capabilities.

In recent years, companies in Binh Duong and inner Ho Chi Minh City regions have had to rethink supply chain and operation strategies due to growing pressure on traffic, increasing land costs, storage costs, and limited space for expansion.

As a result, to enhance their competitiveness and ensure cost-efficient and undisrupted operations, an increasing number of businesses are looking for alternative locations and logistic services within the Greater Ho Chi Minh City region.

Cainiao Network is proud to contribute to optimising Vietnam's supply chain, allowing its clients to leverage its services and extensive networks.

Cainiao PAT Logistics Park in Long An province, and Cainiao Dong Nai Smart Logistics Park in Dong Nai are set to meet the growing demands of businesses that have key customer audiences in Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta.

Thanks to prime locations providing multi-way access to Ho Chi Minh City, the upcoming Long Thanh International Airport, Cat Lai port and VICT port, the logistic parks provide much-needed services within the bustling industrial clusters in the region.

The company's recent deals with leading industry players such as OOCL and VSICO, which is testament to the value of the Cainiao Network.

Both OOCL and VSICO are established and high-ranking 3PL logistics corporations whose end-customers are also leading corporations in various sectors and origins. With Cainiao Network's state-of-the-art infrastructure, premium quality warehouse, efficient property management, professional customer services, and technical assistance, OOCL and VSICO can reduce their overall logistics costs and streamline their operations to fuel further business growth.

Cainiao Network is proud to contribute to optimising Vietnam's supply chain, including in fast-moving consumer goods, retail, automotive, home appliances, and food and beverages chains, allowing its clients to leverage its services and extensive networks.

The company is confident of supporting businesses in Vietnam with their logistics and warehousing needs and bringing better logistics solutions to its clients and Vietnamese consumers.

As the logistics arm of Alibaba Group, Cainiao Network carries forward Alibaba's mission of making it easy to do business anywhere by aiming to deliver anywhere in China within 24 hours, and across the globe within 72 hours.

Experience the full interactive Multichannel News Release here

Vietnam a 'star in global supply chain' Vietnam is a star in the global supply chain in terms of garments and textiles, footwear and electricity, according to a new report.

Vietnam an indispensable part of the global supply chain Nakajima Takeo, chief representative of the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) in Hanoi Office, has outlined the importance of Vietnam to the global supply chain and for Japanese manufacturers in particular.
Decree on Personal Data Protection promulgated, Illustrative image (Photo source: ictnews.vn)

Hanoi  The Government on April 17 issued Decree on Personal Data Protection which specifies measures and conditions to ensure the work.



Under the document, which will take effect from July 1, 2023, those to protect personal data include management and technical measures implemented by organisations and inpiduals involved in processing personal data; measures implemented by State management agencies with jurisdiction in accordance with this decree and related laws and regulations; investigation and prosecution measures carried out by State agencies; and other measures as stipulated by law.



They must be applied from the beginning and throughout the process of handling personal data.



The Department of Cyber Security and Hi-tech Crime Prevention of the Ministry of Public Security is the specialised agency for the work, tasked with assisting the ministry in implementing State management on the protection of personal data.

The national portal on personal data protection provides information on policies of the Party, and laws of the State on personal data protection; disseminates policies and laws on personal data protection; updates and receives related information and data through the internet; and provides information on the assessment of personal data protection activities of relevant agencies, organisations and inpiduals.



In addition, it also receives notifications of violations of regulations on personal data protection; issues warnings about risks and actions of infringing personal data as prescribed by law; and performs other activities in accordance with relevant regulations.



The decree specifies that agencies, organisations, and inpiduals are responsible for disseminating knowledge, skills, and raising public awareness of personal data protection; and ensuring material facilities and conditions for the specialised agency in implementing its tasks.



The Ministry of Public Security is assigned to develop specific programmes and plans to develop workforces specialising in the work.

Vietnam to amend law on personal income tax It is pressing for Vietnam to amend the Law on Personal Income Tax (PIT) as many of its regulations have proven outdated and no longer appropriate.

Consumer rights protection online a focus amid e-commerce boom The protection of consumer rights online has been the focus amid the boom of e-commerce and the digital economy since the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the Ministry of Industry and Trade.
The government has requested that the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) study the feasibility of a new law regarding renewable energy, according to an announcement from the Government Office at the start of April.

A group of energy projects in Vietnam are simply waiting for approval to become officially operational, photo Le Toan

The Government Office issued the notice regarding the conclusion of Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Has March 15 meeting on legislation related to renewable energy (RE). According to the document, DPM Ha requested that the MoIT expeditiously examine and finish the dossier of applications for the creation of a law on renewable energy and comprehensively study global experience in order to review the draft direct power purchase agreement pilot mechanism to be implemented in Vietnam.

Vietnam has been struggling to introduce a new overarching energy plan for this decade. In a document sent to the prime minister in March, the Binh Thuan Wind and Solar Energy Association and 36 related investors stated they face the risk of financial failure because 34 projects (28 wind projects and 6 solar schemes) have completed construction and testing but are still waiting for electricity grid approval.

Solar power plants have been waiting approximately 27 months for a new mechanism, while wind power plants have been waiting approximately 17 months.

Since 2021, government agencies, specialised research units, and consultants have proposed numerous transitional energy solutions. Analysts estimate that unrecognised commercial operation dates and grid-connected wind farms could produce about 10 billion kWh annually to meet the demand. The current situation, therefore, is resulting in substantial waste and harm to investors and the Vietnamese economy.

According to Circular No.15/2022/TT-BCT issued by the MoIT in October 2022, the production of electricity price brackets for RE is on an upward trend. It stipulates approaches and regulations for construction and it establishes power generation price brackets for terrestrial solar plants, floating solar plants, and inland and offshore wind power plants. However, the price ranges do not generate agreement between Electricity of Vietnam (EVN), clients, investors, or vendors.

According to the Binh Thuan Wind and Solar Energy Association, investors are still waiting for the government to direct the MoIT to modify the new power pricing mechanism for transitional projects to reflect the current situation. Due to legal flaws as well as a lack of financial efficacy for investors, current policies cause investors to feel uneasy and anxious, said association chairman Bui Van Thinh.

Existing laws are insufficient

Nguyen Van Vy, vice president of the Vietnam Energy Association, stated that the absence of a distinct law on RE in Vietnam affects and restricts the lure of capital for the growth of this energy source. Regulations on promoting and backing the development of RE are dispersed throughout numerous other legal documents, promulgated and overseen by numerous ministries and industries.

The achievements and progress of the current legal system are insufficient for Vietnams power industry to remedy its low development circumstance, requiring the further making of policies and amending some laws to conform to reality; drawing in funding for development towards guaranteeing energy security and developing RE, Vy said.

The National Assembly has issued numerous legal documents, such as the Law on Electricity in 2004, the Law on Atomic Energy in 2008, the Law on Economical and Efficient Use of Energy in 2010, and the Law on Petroleum last year. But Vy believes that RE requires a separate set of regulations.

Vietnam must focus on three main aspects to lay the groundwork for the energy transition by 2050: energy efficiency, RE development, and electrification, he said. Increasing energy self-sufficiency by maximising the use of domestically produced RE will improve energy supply and demand autonomy and contribute to stable supply.

Currently, the non-state economic sectors interest in investing in the development of the energy industry is still limited, Vy remarked. Therefore, in order to institutionalise and create a legal corridor to attract resources for RE development, the Vietnamese government must investigate and devise a new law on RE.

Concurrently, reviewing and adjusting the RE Development Strategy, promulgating energy development plans under the Law on Planning 2018, and amending and supplementing a number of existing legal documents will help foster the development of energy enterprises, he added.

Selective consumption

Associate Professor Dr. Bui Xuan Thong of the Institute of Oceanography and Environment at the Vietnam Union of Science and Technology Associations remarked that between 2016 and 2020, Vietnam made a significant advancement in RE development. Now, slowly resolving concerns about the future orientation of the energy industry and the lack of indication of the pricing mechanism are currently the greatest obstacles to the development of RE.

The legality of the energy industry as a whole and of each energy segment is still restricted, inconsistent, and uncoordinated internationally. Investment plans on state management of energy resources are absent and uneven; technological and scientific investments in the industry innovate slowly; and the energy planning strategy has not yet been released, Thong said.

As a result of the global energy crisis of 2022 markets such as Thailand, Taiwan, and Germany have modified their policies and laws regarding RE development in order to adapt to the fluctuating market conditions.

Taiwans experience demonstrates that a distinct Law on Renewable Energy necessitates government support for the development of RE. In 2017, Taiwan passed a law mandating the use of RE sources to generate 20 per cent of the nations electricity by 2025 and to eliminate all greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Taiwans development of clean energy has progressed through a number of phases, focusing on research and development and establishing a comprehensive RE chain. The Taiwanese government annually provides funding and subsidies for a variety of system models.

Dr. Pham Canh Huy of the School of Economics and Management at Hanoi University of Science and Technology recommended that Vietnam adopt specific objectives and stable, long-term policies to attract investments for RE development initiatives.

An auction mechanism for the purchasing price of RE is one of the most important policies for maintaining the expansion of the RE market because it is not only transparent but also creates a basis for the markets sustainable development, Huy said.

In Vietnam, the cost of solar and wind power is individually negotiated for each project. This results in challenges with balancing the burden in each region; while EVN cannot decide on the electricity price, discussing a single electricity price with each investor is extremely complex due to the large number of difficult points to clarify. The management agency will lose its drive, and it will be challenging to identify the source of power entering the burden, Huy explained.

Vietnam should adopt an auction system, as this is the only method to address the countrys current inadequacies as well as its future course of action, he said. The MoIT must first issue a decree governing and regulating proposal documents. Since 2019, multiple variants of the renewable electricity auction have been constructed in Vietnam, but there is currently no legal justification for electricity auctions.

The incentive system for RE development must be flexibly designed so that it can be altered according to the specific form of the project and the scale of the projects, according to Huy.

He also proposed close and comprehensive collaboration in the process of formulating policies and regulations on RE development; concurrently, the enactment of strategies and legislation on RE development for corporations in the energy industry should be made concrete as soon as possible.

The MoIT estimates that REs electricity output has reached 130 billion kWh at the end of December 2022, accounting for almost 48 per cent of Vietnams total electricity generation output. This includes 35 per cent hydroelectricity and 13 per cent wind, solar, and biomass energy. The ministry also estimates that the proportion of RE generation in the power generation structure of Vietnams power system has increased from 27 per cent in 2010 to more than 48 per cent in 2022, with a particularly large contribution from wind and solar power in the 2019-2022 period. The proportion of RE sources has considerably increased since the September 2022 report, according to the draft Power Development Plan VIII submitted in October 2022. The proportion of RE sources (excluding hydroelectricity) has increased from 24.3 per cent to 25.7 per cent to 27.3 per cent in 2030, and will continue to rise to 59 per cent in 2050. Between 2030 and 2050, the use of solar energy will skyrocket. Therefore, the capacity of concentrated solar power and wind power will be 8,736MW and 28,480MW, respectively, in 2030 and 136,323MW and 153,550MW, respectively, in 2050.

SK E&S sets solid footprint in renewable energy SK E&S, South Korea's largest private renewable energy operator, signed an agreement to buy a 99.99 per cent stake in New Renewable Energy JSC No.1, which is a subsidiary of Gia Lai Power Electricity JSC to set a foot in the renewable energy sector in Vietnam.

BCG Energy, Hanwha Energy agree new bond payment deadline Vietnam's BCG Energy and its Singaporean partner Hanwha Energy have concluded a new timeline for the former to pay the latter part of an overdue bond.
Son Ha Group, a multidisciplinary economic group with business lines across civil and industrial products, water, renewable energy, industrial infrastructure and real estate, and more last week launched four Vietnamese-made e-motorcycles.

There are now over three million electric bikes in circulation in this country Photo: Son Ha Group

They include two battery-powered models with a maximum speed of up to 80km per hour and a maximum travel distance of up to 200km per charge. The designs are considered similar to the Honda Vario, Yamaha Exciter, and VinFast Klara.

At the launch event, deputy director general Hoang Manh Tan said, Currently, the trend of switching from traditional motorbikes to e-bikes is strong in Vietnam, especially in the southern provinces. This is a great opportunity for two-wheeler assemblers and manufacturers.

Tan further explained that younger people around the world are more aware of the effects of environmental pollution and climate change due to fossil fuels released into the environment.

So, if the government has clear and systematic communication, they will be exposed to new things and are excited instead of being hesitant, and thats why we have developed into the southern market, he said.

Although there have been many domestic groups jumpimg in this field thus far, Tan said that in order to make an electric vehicle (EV) industry in Vietnam, determination and persistence are vital for the businesses keen to get involved.

The market is still very open with good products, reasonable prices, and stable features that could be good enough for the Vietnamese population as well as for export to other ASEAN nations, added Tan.

In the next 5-10 years, Son Ha hopes to become one of the three largest EV manufacturers and suppliers in Vietnam, accounting for 10-20 per cent of the domestic two-wheeler market share of about 300,000-600,000 vehicles a year.

Son Has production plant in the northern province of Bac Ninh, in Thuan Thanh II Industrial Park, was inaugurated three years ago.

The current top name in Vietnam, VinFast, boasts four e-bike models. The company decided in 2021 to completely focus on electric models rather than balancing that with traditional vehicles.

New names entering the market, from young startups to bigger EV brands, are also attempting to launch models with many technical innovations such as longer distances on a single charge, and allowing faster speeds in certain environments.

They include DAT Bike, which has been involved in manufacturing at a Weaver factory in the southern province of Binh Duong for several years, and Pega, with e-bike models that it claims can compete with big names such as Honda and Yamaha.

Tan of Son Ha Group acknowledges that, according to the governments plan, all petrol motorcycle production will be stopped by 2040.

However, I think Vietnam will achieve this sooner for two reasons. Firstly, people will have a greater sense of change and benefits when using EVs; and secondly, at the same time, big companies that produce more gas motorbikes will convert to e-versions. When they switch to EVs, the era of gas cars will end, Tan said.

According to the Ministry of Industry and Trade, there are currently over three million electric bicycles and electric motorbikes in circulation in Vietnam, and the demand is only rising.

Promising times ahead for local e-vehicle producers Vietnamese electric motorbike manufacturer PEGA is going to bring its electric motorbikes to Cuban roads, creating a much-needed buzz for the countrys e-vehicle industry.
The National Committee for Persons with Disabilities plans to support training and roll out livelihood and startup models for about 20,000 people with disabilities this year. (Photo: VNA)

Hanoi  The National Committee for Persons with Disabilities plans to support training and roll out livelihood and startup models for about 20,000 people with disabilities this year, according to Deputy Minister of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs Nguyen Van Hoi.



Vietnam counts more than 7 million people with disabilities, or over 7.06 per cent of the national population above two years old, of whom, 28.9 per cent suffer from severe defects. As many as 342,329 families and inpiduals are currently taking care of social welfare beneficiaries.



Statistics showed that most of the disabled people are poor, neither attend school nor have academic degrees, are of the working age and live in rural areas. They help their families with farming, forestry and fishery activities, with low incomes.



The Party, State and people have paid heed to the group, as reflected through the adoption of many relevant policies, and the allocation of resources for the implementation of the policies, programmes and projects.



As a result, more than 1.1 million disabled people have received monthly social allowances and free health insurance cards.



Article 4 of the Law on Persons with Disabilities prescribes that persons with disabilities are guaranteed to participate on an equal basis in social activities; live independently and integrate into the community; enjoy exemption from or reduction of certain contributions to social activities; to be provided with healthcare, functional rehabilitation, education, vocational training, employment, legal assistance, access to public facilities, means of transport, information technology and cultural, sports, tourist and other services suitable to their forms and degrees of disability, and others in line with legal regulations.



Notably, people with disabilities who face financial difficulties have received legal assistance through consultation and participation in litigation.



Pham Thi Hai Ha, Deputy Director of the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs (MoLISA)' Department of Social Protection, said more than 28.73 trillion VND (1.22 billion USD) was earmarked from the state budget last year for the implementation of the governments Decree No. 20/2021/ND-CP dated March 15, 2021 on support to social allowance beneficiaries, and another 480 billion VND for the roll-out of support policies towards disabled people in terms of education.



Apart from the state budget, relevant organisations and associations have also worked hard to mobilise resources from different economic sectors in order to improve living standards of the disabled people.



The 2010 Law on Persons with Disabilities also prescribes vocational training and employment for them.



Vietnam ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the International Labour Organisation (ILO)s Convention 159 on Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment for Disabled Persons.



The Law on Vocational Education also devotes one chapter to vocational training for disabled people, helping them be self-employed or seek employment, thus stabilising their lives.



The State has pledged to provide financial support and other incentives for the institutions that offer vocational education to the disabled.



Disabled self-employed people and households that create jobs for the disabled can access preferential loans in service of their production and business, and receive assistance in terms of both technology and production consumption in line with the Governments regulations.



Each year, some 19,000 disabled people benefit from such vocational training programmes, more than 20,000 are supported in job seeking and nearly 40,000 access preferential loans.



For the role of employers, the Ordinance on Disabled Persons stipulates that the disabled should account for 2-3 per cent of the workforce of each enterprise. If not, the businesses must monthly contribute to the employment fund for people with disabilities an amount equivalent to the minimum wage prescribed by the State for the disabled employees.



An ILO report showed that Vietnam loses 3 per cent of GDP by not employing people with disabilities in the labour market.



Director of the Social Protection Department To Duc said the legal system related to people with disabilities will be reviewed this year, with a focus on breakthrough policies to enhance their accessibility to vocational education, and create jobs and stable livelihoods for them.



The MoLISA also coordinate with relevant ministries, agencies and localities to build a dossier on amending and supplementing the Law on Persons with Disabilities, the Employment Law, and the Law on Social Insurance, in which suitable policies for the disabled will be integrated and supplemented, he added.

Thousands walk for AO victims, people with disabilities More than 5,000 volunteers of the Vietnam Red Cross Society (VNRC) as well as local residents participated in a fundraising walk for Agent Organge (AO)/Dioxin victims and impoverished people with disabilities in Ho Chi Minh City on August 10.

USAID supports flood-affected people with disabilities in Thua Thien-Hue The US Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Action for the Community Development Centre (ACDC) on November 23 coordinated to provide relief aid for people with disabilities who have been affected by floods in the central province of Thua Thien-Hue.
In late March, the world-famous actor who played Jaime Lannister in the hit TV series Game of Thrones unexpectedly appeared in Vietnam. The image of the actor exploring the city on a motorcycle has delighted netizens.

Attention has not only been focused on the handsome appearance of the actor who played Jaime Lannister, but also on the humorous remarks about how the knight had undergone hand transplant surgery to comfortably ride and control the motorcycle. Additionally, the unique design of the orange motorcycle that looked to have a fuel tank but no exhaust pipe has raised curiosity.

Danish actor Nikolaj Coster-Waldau riding a Dat Bike Weaver++ around Ho Chi Minh City

For e-bike enthusiasts, this is a familiar product. The Weaver++ is the latest model from the Vietnamese startup Dat Bike.

It is known that Coster-Waldau came to Vietnam to film a documentary series about the environment called An Optimist's Guide to the Planet for Bloomberg TV.

These films document his journey to different regions, searching for people, inventions, and actions that make us believe more in pollution reduction efforts and climate change prevention. Therefore, the film crew decided to use an electric motorcycle as the means of transportation as a solution to reduce air pollution.

The level of cooperation between Dat Bike and Bloomberg is still unknown, but it can be assumed that the motorcycle was chosen as an environmentally friendly solution. This is not the first time environmental projects have considered Dat Bike. Previously, the British Embassy trusted this startup to participate in the UK Government's Climate Finance Accelerator programme worth 11.8 million.

The electric motorcycle has a vintage-inspired design that is still robust and suitable for many riding styles. The performance of the Weaver++ is also an advantage that sets the bike apart on the market. It can travel up to 200km on a single charge, equivalent to a week of commuting within the city.

Typically, it takes an hour to charge the first 100km and a total of 3 hours for a distance of 200km. However, with the Dat Charge superfast charging station, the charging time has been shortened to just 20 minutes for 100km of travel, making it the fastest two-wheel electric vehicle charging speed in Southeast Asia. Additionally, this is the only electric motorcycle with an integrated smartphone app to allow for control and upgrades.

Currently, the Dat Biker community on Facebook has attracted nearly 21,000 members, consisting mainly of people who love and use the Dat Bike. Here, topics such as Q&As, bike reviews, and usage tips are widely contributed and responded to by members. This information channel also helps Dat Bike listen to multidimensional feedback from customers and honestly assess the product's advantages and disadvantages to help improve it.

In many posts, representatives of the company also directly answer questions and support customers. For example, some responded that the climbing ability of the Weaver++ motorcycle did not meet their expectations, and they hoped Dat Bike could address this issue. Immediately after receiving the feedback, the Dat Bike team started researching, and after a few months, they released a new firmware update that significantly improved the climbing ability of both the Weaver 200 and Weaver++.

Some users even formed a group to experience off-road riding in mountainous areas and try hill climbs at commercial centres, and all gave positive reviews on this update.

The opportunity for a Dat Bike to appear with the renowned actor in an important documentary film attracted public attention and showed the Vietnamese brand in a very positive light. The overwhelming feedback that Dat Bike received both domestically and internationally also shows that the company's efforts have been recognised. Along with listening and learning, Dat Bike has gained a reputation for innovation and customer-centricity.

Dat Bikes vision to electrify the region With sustainable development picking up pace around the world, Dat Bike believes it has an advantage to take the lead with its e-bikes. Son Nguyen, CEO of Dat Bike, talked to Minh Anh about the companys vision to realise its dream of electrifying the regional market.

Vietnam named among nine top countries for bike tours Vietnam was the only Asian country listed among the top nine destinations in the world with the most beautiful and must-see landscapes by Ride Apart, a website site for motorcycle enthusiasts.
Japan has launched the Asia Energy Transition Initiative, which includes knowledge sharing, technology development, and deployment of decarbonisation and $10 billion in financial assistance to push forward energy transition. The Japanese prime minister also proposed the Asia Zero Emissions Community concept in his last visit to Vietnam.

Taketoshi Nagaoka - Chairman, Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Vietnam

In line with initiatives like these, Japanese companies would like to contribute to a realistic energy transition in Vietnam by promoting the private investment and social application of decarbonisation technologies.

As one example, alongside the Ministry of Industry and Trade, we jointly organised a workshop on Vietnam-Japan cooperation for the development of power and energy fields for decarbonisation.

It was a meaningful opportunity to share information and exchange opinions on various aspects of Japanese energy strategy towards carbon neutrality, state-of-the-art decarbonisation tech, and financing methods for infrastructure development.

Since Japan has many similarities to the energy structure and security of Vietnam, various Japanese decarbonisation measures such as zero-emission thermal power technologies, consumer energy-saving technologies, and on-site power generation and storage have a high affinity with Vietnamese energy policies.

To promote cooperation with the Vietnamese government in the future, we have several requests.

Firstly, amid growing electricity demand, Vietnam is facing power shortages, especially in industrial parks in the north. For this, the early release of Power Development Plan VIII is essential to ensure investment in power generation in line with the growth of the economy. In recent years, Japanese companies have been increasing projects in Vietnam for the growing demand for renewable power generation. However, the delay has seriously affected not only the renewable power plants, but the linking industries such as biomass fuel production, which have been halted.

Japan is involved in several energy initiatives that help in knowledge sharing and tech transfer, Photo: Shutterstock

Second, early implementation of gas-fired power generation is critical. This type of generation contributes to meeting the rapidly increasing demand for electricity, as well as facilitating renewable energy.

Third is the amendment of the existing investment and public-private partnership regulations. Large-scale power generation projects such as gas-fired and offshore wind power cannot be fully implemented by Vietnamese companies and local banks alone, and it is essential to attract foreign companies and financial institutions. However, the current system provides insufficient or uncertain support for investors, which undermines the predictability and the security for foreign-invested enterprises.

Finally, we need the promotion of rooftop solar power and early introduction of direct power purchase agreements for promoting renewable power. We would also ask to relax the eligibility requirements under current purchase agreements, which is to purchase at least 30MW per customer.

This year marks 50 years of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Japan. Both countries have always had a mutually beneficial relationship, and this relationship is growing stronger. We hope to further develop the friendly relationship between our two countries.

Vietnam has massive potential for offshore wind energy Vietnam has the potential to offer an economical and environmentally friendly energy source for economic growth, according to attendees at a recent workshop discussing offshore wind power.

EVN must settle transitional renewable energy power tariffs before March 31: MoIT The Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) has mandated that Electricity of Vietnam (EVN) and investors in wind and solar power reach an agreement on energy rates by March 31.

Development pace picking up in energy Wealthy foreign investors in energy are expanding their long-term strategies in Vietnam while many ongoing projects that missed the feed-in tariff deadline are struggling to find a revenue balance.
From left, director James Gunn, actors Karen Gillan, Pom Klementieff and Chris Pratt pose during a press conference for the film, "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3" at Conrad Seoul in Seoul, Tuesday. Yonhap



By Kwak Yeon-soo



Director James Gunn said "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3" tells an intimate story far more emotional than its predecessors and ends with the focus on Rocket's origin story.



"This is the biggest and the smallest 'Guardians of the Galaxy' movie. When I say the smallest, I mean personal. The characters interacting with one another are so emotional. They are so close and intimate and that's much different from other MCU (Marvel Cinematic Universe) movies," he told Korean reporters during a press conference for the film at the Conrad Seoul, Tuesday.



"Rocket is really important to me because I relate to him a lot. He's an ultimate outsider. When I took this job in 2011 or 2012, it was Rocket's story that drove me to tell the Guardians' story. This movie is an exploration of this sad creature  how he came to be so angry, where he came from and where he is going to go eventually."



Gunn admitted that putting together the soundtrack for the film was the hardest part.



"I kept changing the songs again and again because I felt pressured to keep the bar high. The first two movies were based on songs Meredith Quill gave to Peter (aka Star-Lord), but this one's given to Peter from Yondu. So it has songs from the 70s, 80s and 90s and beyond," the director said.



Actor Chris Pratt, who is returning to his role as Peter Quill, revealed that "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3" will show a more mature version of his character. In the film, Peter, still reeling from the loss of Gamora, must rally his team around him on a final mission to protect the Guardians.



"The first film tells the origin story of a young man who learns to care about more than himself and explores the maternal lineage. The second film focuses on the paternal lineage. The third film really is about oneself. There is more emotion than previous films," he said.





A scene from the film, "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3" / Courtesy of Walt Disney Company Korea
Essentially, they are multilateral financial agreements aimed at accelerating the phase-out of fossil fuels, in a way that addresses the social consequences of doing so.

Christian Deseglise - Head of Sustainable Infrastructure and Innovation, HSBC

The model first gained attention in 2021, when an $8.5 billion deal was announced for South Africa, in partnership with France, Germany, the United Kingdom, United States, and European Union. This was followed by a $20 billion package for Indonesia and a $15.5 billion agreements for Vietnam last year. Deals for India and Senegal are expected to follow.

Many parties have a role to play in the decarbonisation of a country. These include domestic stakeholders, such as its citizens, governments, and utility providers, as well as external partners that help finance the transition. These are a mix of climate finance donors as well as public and private sector investors  typically G7 governments, development banks, and financial institutions.

A Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) allows the key players to work together on designing, funding, and implementing a plan thats tailored to the countrys specific needs and characteristics. It is underpinned by a commitment from the country to step up its climate ambitions, against the promise of funding and support from its external partners.

Retiring coal-fired power plants and replacing this energy with renewables will be a key focus of the plans. But this must be done in a way that minimises any negative impact. That is why the third goal of JETPs is to implement policies that support affected communities  for example, ensuring workers in coal regions can access retraining.

They could also unlock new technologies. The initiatives will also encourage investment into green technologies and industries that boost the countrys economic development. With the right input, Indonesia  the worlds largest producer of nickel  could become a major manufacturer of batteries for electric vehicles, for instance.

But where do banks like HSBC come in? The private sector was not represented at the launch of South Africas JETP. This was a shortcoming, in my view. By bringing the private sector on board from the outset, you can create conditions that help mobilise finance at scale and unlock far greater sums.

In the case of Indonesia and Vietnam, the financial sector is now represented by the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero (GFANZ). Within this, HSBC is playing a lead role, helping identify barriers to private investment in each country, as well as proposing solutions.

In particular, Vietnams JETP will mobilise $7.75 billion from the International Partners Group co-led by the EU and the UK over 3-5 years, with the facilitation of at least the same amount in private finance from GFANZ working group members including HSBC.

We are currently working with GFANZ and the Vietnams Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment on the next steps in terms of implementation with HSBCs support, reiterated by Asia-Pacific co-CEO Surendra Rosha during a number of recent meetings, including one with Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha.

As a bank, we are also supporting the Coal Energy Transition Mechanism, which aims to facilitate the early retirement of coal assets in Asia. This initiative, led by the Asian Development Bank, will work in service of the JETPs.

Renewable energy projects in Indonesia and Vietnam have historically struggled to access financing. The reasons for this are complex and varied  from foreign exchange and credit risk considerations to political and regulatory issues. Within working groups, we will unpick these bankability issues and seek ways to overcome them.

Blended-finance vehicles such as Pentagreen, HSBCs joint venture with investment firm Temasek, could be one possible solution. It can finance projects that banks would ordinarily turn down.

These partnerships are the perfect fit for the worlds local banks. We want to play our part in supporting the transition to a more sustainable world. Thats a key part of HSBCs strategy as a business. And we are a global bank, but with strong local knowledge in Indonesia and Vietnam. We can bring our local knowledge and local footprint to the global community, driving the partnerships.

However, the hard work is just beginning and it is early days for these agreements. They are long-term initiatives, with the initial funding packages to be disbursed over 3-5 years. It is important that all the parties remain committed and engaged over time. But if successful, I believe they can provide the template for decarbonisation across the world.

$15.5 billion in financing for green energy from Just Energy Transition Partnership 2023 could be an interesting year for Vietnams energy sector, as $15.5 billion of financing is set to be mobilised for Vietnams green energy transition through a recent energy partnership.

Displaying readiness for the energy transition in Vietnam Vietnams current development highlights the urgent need to accelerate the global energy transition. John Rockhold, head of the Power and Energy Working Group under the Vietnam Business Forum, looks at how events have demonstrated the cost to the global economy of a centralised energy system dependent on fossil fuels.

Indian research intern: Vietnams clean energy transition accelerates Vietnam is undergoing clean energy transition at an accelerating rate and is considered the leader of clean energy transition in Southeast Asia, Shubham Rai, a research intern in the Southeast Asia and Oceania Centre at Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (MP-IDSA), India, wrote in an article.

Germany ready to assist Vietnam in energy transition: official A German official has voiced the countrys readiness to become a trustworthy and capable partner helping with energy transition in Vietnam.
Some say that Vietnam should study and apply Chinas real estate rescue policy. Whats your take on this?

I want to emphasise that Vietnams real estate market is very different from that of China. Vietnams real estate is a market that lacks supply, while the demand is large both in the short and long term. In the past five years, the licensing and implementation of projects has decreased sharply. Especially in the last two years, there have been almost no new projects launched, leading to an increasingly scarce supply of residential real estate.

Dr. Le Xuan Nghia, member of the National Financial and Monetary Policy Advisory Council

If the legal process is good, and if there are projects and resources at a reasonable price, the demand will be huge. For example, if an apartment of about $1,000-1,280 per square metre or less can borrow 60-70 per cent, the demand will be huge. In other words, even if the market can establish a new price level, the price level will continue to increase and policymakers will expect a stable and acceptable increase.

Moreover, it is this new price level that will restructure the real estate market in the most effective way and at that time, any business or investor who can stand this price level will survive. If not, then they will have to restructure their own corporations according to market principles.

Therefore, the opportunity to solve difficulties in real estate in Vietnam is quite high compared to China. This country solved three problems  legal procedures, accelerating projects, and lending special credit to healthy businesses to buy weak projects  but, in the end, it encountered another big obstacle, which is that sometimes people have no need.

Chinas financial watchdog launched a 16-point plan to energise the real estate market, including a special credit package to rescue businesses. However, actual developments show that the Chinese real estate market is still in a difficult situation. It is still something Vietnam can learn from.

After the nationwide conference on the safe and sustainable development of the real estate market, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh emphasised the priority of bank credit for the recovery and development of affordable housing and social housing. What do you think about this direction?

I think this is a very sharp guiding thought, in line with the current reality of the market. The state budget is not enough to finance all segments and it is impossible to finance businesses.

Furthermore, we cannot entice commercial banks into a market with certain risks. In other words, a shield is needed for the banking system because this is the lifeblood of the economy and depositors trust plays a decisive role in the existence and development of the macroeconomy and the financial market in general and the banking system in particular.

Solving the problem of capital flows for real estate must focus on prioritising bank credit capital to restore and develop affordable housing and social housing. This is important and creates a prioritised segment for restructuring.

Looking at the current market reality, the segment that needs a massive supply which is not available is affordable housing and social housing because there is no mechanism, land, or capital flow. I believe that, when focusing resources on this segment, it will create a new price level and help the market recover and thrive again.

How will the banking system play a significant role in supporting the real estate market to develop sustainably again?

I think that commercial banks can carefully consider and analyse the financial background of each real estate group. They can carry out a comprehensive assessment of collateral or potential security assets and short- and medium-term debt repayment ability, and the ability of the management board, to decide on debt restructuring. After that, new loans can be crafted to both investors and buyers at a reasonable price. This is also to ensure that the restructuring of the real estate market must be a selective restructuring.

My view is that it takes a very realistic view of the market to solve two problems. First, it determines the price to restructure corporate bond debt according to the orientation of revised legislation, which includes negotiating with investors on asset swaps to liquidate corporate bonds, and liquidation of projects to repay debts. Where assets with high solvency are seriously impaired, the enterprise must go bankrupt.

Secondly, businesses cannot just sit and wait, but need to make efforts to self-advocate, or even to accept liquidation of assets to handle their debts.

The management policies of the state play an important role in restoring the real estate market. What is your expectation about the early realisation of these supporting policies in reality?

On the state side, I expect stronger actions, requesting local governments to review land planning related to the real estate market and resolve issues promptly and decisively regarding procedures for projects. Specifically, there must be valuation of site clearance compensation, tax valuation for land use rights, and bidding needs to be carried out quickly so that projects can start construction quickly.

Sumitomo Forestry partners with Kim Oanh Group Sumitomo Forestry Group and Kim Oanh Group signed a strategic cooperation agreement in early April to establish KS Sustainable Development JSC, for the development of large-scale real estate projects.

Removing bottlenecks in real estate market Capital flow, legal bottlenecks, and removing policy obstacles in real estate are the main issues to be discussed by policymakers and experts in a roundtable themed held by Vietnam Investment Review on April 19.

Gamuda Lands strategic regional expansion Malaysian real estate developer Gamuda Land has been expanding its quick turnaround project strategy to deliver higher returns. Angus Liew, chairman of Gamuda Land Vietnam, exclusively shared the groups development strategies with VIRs Bich Ngoc.
Dr. Can Van Luc - Member, National Financial and Monetary Policy Advisory Council

Four highly related industries are construction, accounting for 6.2 per cent of GDP; tourism accounting for 7.2 per cent of GDP (in 2019); accommodation and dining accounting for 2.27 per cent of GDP; and finance and banking accounting for 4.76 per cent of GDP in 2022.

As of the first quarter of 2023, the real estate business contributed 3.54 per cent of GDP and the economy, down 0.04 percentage points compared to the first quarter of 2022.

The real estate industry ranks second in terms of attracting foreign capital, accounting for about 10 per cent of newly registered foreign direct investment (FDI) every year. Towards the end of the first quarter of 2023, registered FDI in real estate reached nearly $66.7 billion, accounting for 15 per cent of total registered foreign capital.

There is an interconnected quadrilateral and close relationship between the markets of banking, securities, insurance, and real estate. If there is a problem in one of these four areas, it will affect other industries and the economy in general.

The real estate market is currently facing many issues, but I would like to focus on three main problems.

Firstly, legal problems are the biggest barriers and difficulties at the moment. Legal regulations of land, construction and real estate are extremely complicated, involving more than 100 laws, decrees, circulars, in which there are many overlapping and inconsistent regulations. For example, there is no consistency between the Law on Land, the Law on Housing, the Law on Real Estate Business on allowing foreigners to buy or own land use rights/real estate.

Additionally, legal regulations are often incomplete, not timely, and unrealistic, leading to a lack of a legal basis for implementation. For example, the law has no provisions on the issuance of certificates of land use rights, or ownership and transfer of tourism and resort real estate, leading to the backlog of many projects.

In addition, there is fear of wrongdoing, fear of responsibility, and extrusion of many officials, further slowing down or jamming projects.

The second is the issue of supply, demand, and price. Due to legal problems, few projects are approved in time, leading to a lack of supply, especially in the housing segment for low-income people, and social housing.

The lack of supply, large project costs, increased input costs, and inflated prices by intermediaries have left real estate prices in Vietnam high relative to peoples incomes. It takes well 23.5 years of income for a middle-class person in Vietnam to buy a house, much higher than Indonesias 18.5 years, Indias 9.2 years, and Malaysias 8.1 years.

The third is capital for the real estate market. In which, real estate credit in the first quarter of 2023 is estimated to increase by about 3 per cent, higher than the general credit growth of 2.06 per cent, compared to the end of 2022.

Total outstanding loans of real estate by the end of February 2023: about $113.5 billion, accounting for 21.2 per cent of the total outstanding loans of the economy; of which, housing loans are estimated at 67 per cent, the rest are loans for real estate business, accounting for about 33 per cent, according to the State Bank of Vietnam and the Ministry of Construction.

Meanwhile, private capital investment in this industry decreased sharply when the number of newly established real estate businesses in the last quarter was 940 enterprises, down 63.2 per cent; registered capital is $2.3 billion (down 60.5 per cent); more than 800 enterprises resumed operation (down 2.6 per cent) compared to the same period in 2022.

The third source of capital: newly registered FDI, capital contribution and share purchase in real estate in the first quarter of 2023 reached $766 million, accounting for 14 per cent of total registered FDI, ranking second in 18 industries attracting foreign investment; FDI disbursement for real estate reached $228.5 million, accounting for 5.3 per cent.

The last source of supply is the capital source from the recovering stock market with the number of bonds issued reaching nearly $1.2 billion, of which real estate enterprises issued $1.02 billion, ranking first and accounting for 83.2 per cent of total issuance.

It should be clearly seen that Vietnam still has a lot of room to develop credit for housing, real estate, industrial parks, and under-supplied segments. Therefore, it is necessary to approach a more balanced and harmonious development of the financial market, and at the same time create development but still control risks and take advantage of new opportunities.

From now to 2030, each year Vietnam needs around $35-44 billion in medium- and long-term capital, in addition to bank credit.

In particular, the country needs to pay attention to controlling financial and real estate risks. It also needs to quickly settle and ensure the legitimate interests of investors in recent cases; implement new decrees efficiently, speed up the review of real estate projects; accelerate disbursement of public investment; and focus on regulating supply demand and real estate prices.

Institutions should also be improved in the direction of amending the laws on securities, enterprises, land, housing, real estate, bidding, and construction.

Regulations on classification of real estate segments require appropriate credit, capital, and financial policies. Guidance should be provided, allowing the establishment of specialised real estate financial institutions in Vietnam. For real estate businesses, it is necessary to have a specific and feasible plan to pay off mature corporate bonds. Diversifying capital sources would help; in addition to bank credit, there are also bonds, stocks, investment funds, and finance leases.

Capital mobilisation is associated with specific capital use purposes. Businesses must reduce financial leverage and limit spread investment. They should head towards transparency and professionalism, especially in terms of credit records, securities issuance records, and implementation of previous commitments.

Finally, paying attention to financial risk management and actively commenting and criticising relevant policies and legal documents is also required.

Sumitomo Forestry partners with Kim Oanh Group Sumitomo Forestry Group and Kim Oanh Group signed a strategic cooperation agreement in early April to establish KS Sustainable Development JSC, for the development of large-scale real estate projects.

Removing bottlenecks in real estate market Capital flow, legal bottlenecks, and removing policy obstacles in real estate are the main issues to be discussed by policymakers and experts in a roundtable themed held by Vietnam Investment Review on April 19.
At the event, Taylor McPartland, founder and CEO of ScaleHealth, introduced this new offering, along with its relationship with Scale Vietnam.

ScaleHealth is a technology platform developed in the US with the desire to connect resources and support the development of health-tech startups globally.

To date, ScaleHealth has attracted more than 10,000 partners including startups, investors, hospitals, and advisors including CardinalHealth, LifeBridge Health, OSF Healthcare, Multicare, Novartis, UCare, Mutticare, and others.

Scale Vietnam is a digital platform focusing on health-tech in the country, helping startups access and take advantage of all the available resources to serve their business needs and solve problems related to a lack of resources, investment capital, and supporting technologies. It also provides advice from experts during the process of product development and deployment.

Taylor McPartland, CEO of ScaleHealth, speaking about the cooperation between ScaleHealth and Scale Vietnam

As a representative of Scale Vietnam, Francis Tuan Anh Nguyen shared an overview of tech trends in the medical field and some urgent medical problems that need to be solved for governments, hospitals, clinics, and patients.

Realising the difficulties that digital health startups are facing due to a range of unresolved problems, the launch of Scale Vietnam will create a separate platform for them to gain information, connections, and build cooperation for product development, he added.

The event attracted the participation of many startups, business managers, and experts. They included the National Startup Support Centre, Microsoft Asia-Pacific, DH Digital Solutions Co., Ltd., and TMA Innovation, among others.

Nhi Tran, CTO of Microsoft Asia-Pacific Startups, introduced the Founder Hub platform, which integrates tools and technologies to assist startups from their inception right through to the go-to-market stage.

She added that Founder Hub can provide a sponsorship package of up to $150,000 throughout startups' development stages and for the following four years. The fact that Founder Hub has partnered with Scale Vietnam's promises to increase the opportunities for startups to grow and raise capital.

Scale Vietnams team and partners

After the official launch, Scale Vietnam will open a registration portal for startups who are keen to join the support platform. For those that have a desire to participate and meet the requirements, Scale Vietnam is ready to support them with consultations and begin integrating them into the platform.

The launch of Scale Vietnam by VMED Group, along with its selection of reputable partners, is seen as a practical choice given the current health situation in Vietnam.

The effort to build the nation's medtech startup community requires cooperation between organisations to accelerate digital transformation and improve the quality of healthcare, both domestically and globally.

Vietnam's green startups show growth Green startups show strong growth in the Vietnamese market as sustainable development projects draw the attention of several venture capitalist funds.

Startups seek the knowledge to flourish With the venture capital market in 2022 deemed generally gloomy with total investment and number of deals falling globally, more work is to be carried out for new companies in Vietnam to survive.

Vietnamese startups raise $855 million in 2022 Vietnamese startups secured $855 million in fresh funding in 2022, which is only one-third compared to the value in 2021, according to a recent report by Nextrans.

Vietnam an attractive spot for startups: Bloomberg Bloomberg on February 14 published an article Silicon Valley talent is helping grow Vietnams startup hub, quoting founders opinion that an abundance of inexpensive engineers coupled with a fast-growing economy makes Vietnam an attractive spot for startups.

Vietnamese and Japanese startups eye cooperation Vietnamese and Japanese startups gathered on February 15 at the Vietnam-Japan Economic Forum to discuss the possibilities of further cooperation.
According to a Q1 report by the Vietnam Association of Realtors, market liquidity in the first quarter of 2023 declined sharply compared to the first half of 2022 when the absorption rate was only about 11 per cent.

The number of transactions, about 2,700, and is down more than half compared to the same period last year. The market is still unbalanced between supply and demand, and there is a serious shortage of supply in social and low-cost housing, it said.

Major obstacles include capital inflows into the real estate market dropping sharply and showing no signs of recovery. Bond maturity pressure remains high, and the total value of corporate bonds maturing in 2023 is estimated at $10.2 billion, of which real estate businesses have a bond balance of about $4.3 billion.

Policies on real estate issues, social housing, and corporate bonds have all been introduced this year

However, the market still recorded a bright spot in terms of supply and transactions in certain projects. Common aspects of real estate projects with good transactions in the last quarter were convenient locations, being developed by reputable investors, and timely handover deadlines.

According to David Jackson, CEO of Colliers Vietnam, the real estate market recorded some positive signs in the first three months of 2023 as the interest outlook started to stabilise thanks to government efforts.

This resulted in improved sentiment, but more importantly it accelerated domestic and foreign investors with strong financial capabilities capitalising on this transformational change in their valuing, negotiation and purchasing processes, Jackson said.

The market is expected to witness some large-scale transactions in the rest of the year. The best recovering segments include residential, industrial, and retail real estate as retaining strong demand and long-term potential for growth. From a broader perspective, this demonstrates that Vietnam real estate continues to be one of the most sought-after markets regionally, backed by solid foundations,Jackson added.

A roundtable on removing bottlenecks and ensuring more liquidity in the real estate market, organised by Vietnam Investment Review, will be held on April 19, 2023. Time: 8:30-11:30am ; Location: Vietnam Investment Review, 47 Quan Thanh, Ba Dinh, Hanoi Format: Live and online channels of VIR group

Removing legal obstacles

Focused on improving policies, opening capital flows, and creating sustainable development, the government has drastically issued many plans for the market.

On April 3, it issued Decree No.10/2023/ND-CP amending and supplementing regulations guiding the implementation of the Law on Land, effective from May 20.

Although it is still too early to assess whether the real estate market will pick up and many issues have not been resolved, industry heads believe the decree will bring positive changes. One of the main benefits is the addition of conditions for issuing title deeds for resort real estate products.

According to the Ho Chi Minh City Real Estate Association, by the end of 2022, the country will have more than 83,000 condotel apartments waiting for title deeds, using commercial and service land funds with a lifespan of 50-70 years.

Second is the supplementation of regulations on land allocation when only one investor meets the selection requirements, which were not previously clearly defined, causing confusion for the localities in land acquisition and land handover procedures.

Decree 10 also supplements the land recovery procedure if the operation of a project is terminated in accordance with the investment law. Accordingly, the investor is allowed to continue using the land for 24 months from the date the project is terminated in accordance with provisions of the law. Within those 24 months, they are allowed to transfer the land use right or sell the properties built on that land to another investor. According to experts, this can reduce pressure cases of project termination.

In addition, a series of other policies to boost the real estate market have been issued since the beginning of 2023, including on corporate bonds, removing bottlenecks in real estate, and social housing development.

Can Van Luc, member of the National Financial and Monetary Policy Advisory Council, said that Vietnam had never had such a great opportunity to amend laws on real estate, land, and credit at the same time.

The basic legal problems have been removed, and the important thing now is how to implement those legal documents to gain our target of pushing up the real estate market, Luc said.

After the issuance of Decree No.08/2023/ND-CP in March, there were $1 billion of newly issued bonds, of which a large amount flowed into real estate. Luc said that corporate bonds were a better channel for capital in real estate this year.

As for the bank credit channel, the overall credit growth for the economy is from 14-15 per cent, and it is certain that credit for real estate will be higher than this threshold, he said.

However, the solutions have been not good enough to create a push for the market to rebound when new laws and sub-law documents such as decrees and circulars have not been issued yet and barriers have not been completely removed. That is why, Luc said, despite receiving positive information, the market still has not had specific results in terms of escaping the downturn.

Many businesses are still facing difficulties and even the risk of bankruptcy, and are being forced to investigate how to save themselves through a variety of different measures.

Dinh Minh Tuan, southern regional director of batdongsan.com.vn, said that although legal snags had been removed, the resort real estate market was unlikely to have positive signals in the short term for several reasons.

The current tourism market is less active, though it is forecast growth will be better by the end of 2023. Also, the prices of resort real estate in big cities is high, especially in tourist cities. Thirdly, a few large investors in the market have not been able to guarantee their commitment to profit, which has affected investor sentiment, Tuan said.

In the long term, the affordable residential will recover first, then, when the economy is stable again and the tourism potential grows along with the legal corridor being supported, the market will be more active, Tuan added. The earliest time for the resort real estate market to recover is after the second quarter of 2024.

Top recommendations

Nguyen Van Dinh, chairman of the Vietnam Association of Real Estate Brokers, has proposed several solutions to promote the healthy and sustainable development of the real estate market.

With the state management agency, Dinh suggested that sub-law documents that remove issues for the market should be issued faster.

The government also needs to soon issue and amend circulars and decrees related to project transfer, land use fee calculation, site clearance, compensation, and social housing planning, he said.

In addition, the government needs to develop a process for approving investment procedures as well as monitoring their implementation in localities. It also needs to sanction localities that do not fulfill their responsibilities. In cases where businesses are unable to continue their projects and transfer projects, the government should have support policies and loosen conditions to create opportunities for businesses to restructure, Dinh explained.

Removing bottlenecks in real estate market Capital flow, legal bottlenecks, and removing policy obstacles in real estate are the main issues to be discussed by policymakers and experts in a roundtable themed held by Vietnam Investment Review on April 19.

Real estate must be allowed to connect robust value chains The real estate market is a bridge connecting industries and markets in the real estate value chain. Specifically, there are 35 industries and fields related to the real estate market, with the coefficient of diffusion from 0.5 to 1.7 times.
Dang Thi Kim Oanh, chairman of Kim Oanh Group, and Kenji Inui, managing director and deputy director of the Global Housing, Construction, and Real Estate division of Sumitomo Forestry Group signing the strategic cooperation agreement

Giants shaking hands

According to the cooperation agreement, KS Sustainable Development will implement a real estate project in Vung Tau City, in Ba Ria Vung Tau province. The project marks the beginning of a partnership and covers 118 town houses and shophouses, which are expected to be rolled out by the end of this year.

The partnership comes after nearly a year of both companies exploring the potential for cooperation and mutual development, and they will continue to research and cooperate with each other to develop other major projects in the future.

Sumitomo Forestry is a 332-year-old international corporation that operates in many fields, including timber and building materials, real estate and construction services. The firm has been very successful with its many business activities in Vietnam and has always set strict standards for choosing its business partners.

Kim Oanh Group is proud to become their strategic partner to develop real estate projects in Vietnam. The move marks a big step forward for Kim Oanh Group to demonstrate its capacity for major development projects.

The leaders of Sumitomo Forestry Group and Kim Oanh Group taking a photo together

The two brands will create synergy to develop real estate projects built to international standards. The projects will not only create ideal living spaces, but also create value when delivered to customers.

A representative from Sumitomo Forestry Group said the two sides share the same strategic vision and development values, with Kim Oanh Group's strengths including its capacity for project development and its dynamic staff.

"Vietnam's real estate market has tremendous potential with a young population, high economic growth, and rapid urbanization. Therefore, the cooperation with Kim Oanh Group will contribute to helping Sumitomo Forestry penetrate deeper into the real estate market in this country of 100 million people," Sumitomo Forestry representative said.

Meanwhile, Dang Thi Kim Oanh, chairwoman of Kim Oanh Group, believes the partnership with the Japanese giant to be a stepping stone for the group to extend its reach into the international market.

"Sumitomo Forestry is a leading corporation in many sectors that comprise the backbone of the economy. This partnership enhances both firms' potential and helps us improve our management, operations, and investment strategies, along with increasing our brand awareness," Oanh said.

The partnership opens up opportunities for Kim Oanh Group to effectively exploit 500 hectares of available land in several locations such as Binh Duong, Dong Nai, Ba Ria Vung Tau, and Kien Giang.

Beyond residential real estate, Sumitomo Forestry and Kim Oanh Group will explore opportunities in other fields such as industrial real estate, tourist resorts, and construction.

A new development phase

Over the last 15 years, Kim Oanh Group has become one of the most prestigious real estate developers in Vietnam with a real estate arm that includes land and project development; real estate marketing and brokerage; infrastructure construction and development; luxury real estate development; and a professional charity foundation.

The strategic handshake between Kim Oanh Group and Sumitomo Forestry Group promises a bright future together

After moving its headquarters to Ho Chi Minh City, Kim Oanh Group developed a multi-sector investment group model, and the group has so far successfully developed around 50 projects in key southern-region markets.

Kim Oanh Group holds a lot of high-value land in prime locations, giving it a secure and solid business foundation, and it continues to keep an eye out for new land investment opportunities to add to its portfolio of projects.

Before the strategic cooperation with Sumitomo Forestry Group, Kim Oanh Group had previously partnered with several other foreign firms, including Frasers Property, CPG, Surbana Jurong of Singapore, and Maple Bear of Canada.

Many domestic groups have also formed partnerships with the group, such as OCB, FPT Software, and Interlink Education.

Kim Oanh Group is entering a new phase of development and the group is expected to become more professional with a more sustainable business model, thereby contributing more value to its customers and the community.

BRG Group and Japanese partner expand FujiMart supermarket chain BRG Group yesterday signed a joint venture agreement with Sumitomo Corporation of Japan to expand the FujiMart supermarket chain in Vietnam.

SMBC scoops up SmartNet shares for over $9 million Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation has inked a deal to form a capital alliance with Smart Net Trading Service JSC with the purchase of shares valued at $9.36 million.
A view of the Songkran New Year Festival in Thailand (Photo source: thaipbsworld.com)

Bangkok  The Thail Ministry of Health is revising its COVID-19 vaccination strategy to cope with the increasing number of new COVID-19 cases during and after the Songkran New Year Festival.

The ministry will start giving COVID-19 booster shots like seasonal flu shots next month, Director of the ministrys Department of Disease Control (DDC) Thares Krasanairawiwong.



He reported that between April 9-15, 435 new infections were admitted to hospitals for treatment, an average of 62 cases per day or 2.5 times higher than the previous week. Of them, 30 had lung inflammation and 19 were put on ventilation, up 58% and 36% respectively. Two of the patients died and they received the last booster shots more than three months ago.



People in risk groups, especially the elderly and those with underlying diseases, should seek to get a booster shot at a medical service office near their homes as soon as possible, Thares said.



After the Songkran festival, people are advised to keep themselves under observation for at least seven days and avoid close contacts with the elderly or people with chronic diseases, he added.



As for the spread of COVID-19 of the XBB.1.16 variant, it has been detected in 22 countries, mostly India. According to GISAID, the Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data, as of April 13, Thailand detected cases of XBB.1.16 sub-variant infection out of about 3,000 cases reported worldwide.

Singapore applies hi-tech in growing strawberries in Malaysia, Thailand Singrow, a Singapore-based agri-genomics, has developed a research project to promote strawberry varieties grown in tropical climate areas. The firm has also promoted franchise farm partnerships in Malaysia and Thailand to make significant progress in its global expansion plans.
The list of reasons for poor competitiveness by some of Vietnams most well-known localities is a long one. At last weeks unveiling ceremony of the latest Vietnam Provincial Competitiveness Index (PCI) and its green index equivalent, the effects of the challenging economic context were laid bare in this years report, as reforms in many policy areas slowed and business optimism remained low.

Top cities bear brunt of sluggish PCI, Hanoi city, Source:shutterstock

In the report, revealed by the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) and with the support of the US Agency for International Development, many businesses reported multiple difficulties in access to finance, hiring employees, limited infrastructure growth, and a gap between central policy and implementation at the grassroots level.

The competitiveness of Ho Chi Minh City last year dropped by a staggering 13 places to 27th, while the capital of Hanoi slumped 10 spots to 20th position.

Ho Chi Minh Citys worst indicators were the proactivity of the local authorities, ranking second-last out of all cities and provinces, and informal charges, ranked 60th. Other indicators of the metropolis are also worse than the average level. For example, the entry costs indicator ranks 43, land access and tenure is placed 54, and law and order ranks 55 on the list.

Nguyen Dinh Tue, director of Ho Chi Minh City Centre for Supporting Small- and Medium-Sized Enterprises, said that the results of administrative reform in the city are meagre and have not created improvements for businesses.

Most individuals and businesses still cannot carry out administrative procedures online or directly, so they pay brokerage fees. Some areas and procedures still have many bottlenecks to be solved, such as project procedures, construction permits, construction of production works on agricultural land, fire prevention and fighting, and hygiene and safety, said Tue.

Deputy Chairman of Ho Chi Minh City Peoples Committee Vo Van Hoan said that the citys leaders have not been satisfied with the results of the administrative procedures reform index, there are still numerous shortcomings and limitations.

There remain difficulties in the process of solving various administrative procedures. Numerous civil servants and public employees are afraid to take responsibility, and do not dare to get involved in regulations that overlap or are incomplete, said Hoan.

About 14,000 dossiers related to land in 2022 have been delayed or feedback has been offered too late, while major transportation projects are around a decade behind schedule (such as Metro No.2 Ben Thanh-Tham Luong), or at least few years (the underpass at Nguyen Van Linh-Nguyen Huu Tho). In addition, disbursement of public investment reported poor performance compared to the national average.

Last year, Ho Chi Minh Citys regional GDP increased by 9.03 per cent, a recovery compared to before the pandemic. However, in the first quarter of 2023, it grew by only 0.7 per cent, the lowest among the five centrally-run cities.

Inflexible frameworks

Up in Hanoi, the two worst indicators were entry costs and land access and tenure, both ranking 59th out of all localities and pulling down the general competitiveness of the capital significantly. Besides that, the proactivity of the citys authorities, informal charges, and law and order are also poor at 53, 48, and 44 on the list, respectively.

Vinhomes chairman Pham Thieu Hoa stated that, although administrative reform in Hanoi has been drastically implemented, it has not yet met the true requirements.

The city should speed up the time of administrative procedures for businesses to have more time to develop their projects. This is the most practical and necessary support action, he said.

Dau Anh Tuan, deputy general secretary and head of the VCCIs Legal Department, said that large economic centres are often subject to more serious economic fluctuations. Moreover, businesses and investors also expect the reforms and changes in administrative procedures there to be stronger than elsewhere.

The enforcement quality of the local government apparatus is being underestimated, and some of them are not active or flexible, said Tuan. In the current challenging context, it is necessary to take the initiative of the government apparatus at all levels, especially in big cities and economic hubs. Because if only one enterprise stagnates, it may be a big risk for the local economy, or affect plenty of other ones.

In addition to burdens caused by the challenges of the economy, foreign-invested enterprises (FIEs) have some headaches with local labour quality, expenditures on training and retention, and recent disruptions in the labour market.

The PCI survey on FIEs revealed that the typical tenure of a worker at such a business often lasts around several years. However, it has become more difficult for businesses to retain employees because workers, especially older ones, have been less interested in long-term employment and deep commitment since the pandemic emerged, according to Pham Anh Thang, representative of the Ministry of Labours, Invalids, and Social Affairs (MoLISA) in Ho Chi Minh City.

Sometimes, workers now accumulate the time needed to receive one-time social insurance payments, which will serve as launching pads to start a business or other alternative careers, Thang said.

FIEs battling

In the south of the country, the recruitment needs of different industries are much different. While most enterprises in textiles, footwear, wood processing, and a few other labour-intensive manufacturing industries have cut working hours since last year, the opposite can be said about manufacturing sectors such as electronics and refrigeration. For example, some top electronic component manufacturers in Saigon High-tech Park have a daily recruitment demand of hundreds of employees.

A head of the human resources department at one such enterprise told VIR that they need more than 1,000 extra employees, but since the end of January only 60 people have come on board.

Thang of the MoLISA in Ho Chi Minh City explained, During the pandemic, two million workers left the market and many did not return. After the fluctuations of the labour market, in order to avoid risks, employers have become timid when trying to recruit, causing some obstacles in the labour market at present.

The proliferation of decent jobs in cities and provinces up and down the country are also attracting workers away from traditional migrant labour markets such as Binh Duong and Dong Nai. Those who stay are drawn to other opportunities with comparable pay and more flexible time arrangements, such as driving for ride-sharing services or working as by-the-hour domestic helpers.

There is considerable room for improvement. For the majority of FIEs (54 per cent), labour quality in their provinces only moderately met their needs. About one-third of the surveys respondents reported that labour quality considerably met their needs. Only 9 per cent were completely satisfied with the local workforce, down from 15 per cent in 2021.

However, when considering the quality of the future labour force, firms outlook seems to be optimistic, according to the PCI survey. FIEs are positive about the quality of general education and vocational training for would-be workers. They rate general education at 4.5 and vocational training at 4.4 out of six points in total.

Improvements in labour quality are urgently needed since labour productivity needs to keep up with wage increases for Vietnam to remain an attractive destination for both foreign and local businesses, urged Thang.

In 2022, FIEs recovered steadily from the negative impacts of the pandemic. The share of FIEs hiring new employees increased markedly from 50.56 per cent in 2021 to 55.77 per cent last year. While 2021 saw an unprecedentedly low rate of businesses reporting profits (38.72 per cent), FIEs improved in this metric in 2022 at 42.77 per cent. Foreign investors appear to have adjusted their operations to stabilise income and expenditures. The shares of businesses reporting losses dropped from a record high of 47.9 per cent in 2021 to 44.88 per cent last year.

Pham Tan Cong, chairman of the VCCI, stated that businesses are facing multiple obstacles from the challenging economic context. We hope local authorities will strengthen support policies that contribute to a more enabling and stable domestic business environment to make up for the instabilities of the global market for the business community, he said.
DETROIT (AP)  A Michigan Supreme Court justice announced Tuesday that he is getting mental-health treatment outside the state and will not hear a case next week.

I encourage everyone who struggles to seek the help they need, Richard Bernstein said in a statement released by the court.

Bernstein, who is blind, has been a justice since 2015 and was reelected last November to another eight-year term.

He caused controversy in January when he publicly criticized Justice Kyra Harris Bolden for hiring a law clerk who had turned his life around after serving 14 years in prison for robbing a store and shooting at police officers.

Bernstein, 48, said he was disgusted by the hiring. But after a backlash, Bernstein apologized and said he regretted his remarks. Bolden's clerk, Pete Martel, resigned.

The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear a case in Cheboygan on April 26.

I appreciate the opportunity to temporarily step out of the courtroom to focus on my mental health, Bernstein said. During this time, I will continue working remotely on all active cases.

Bernstein did not immediately respond to a message from The Associated Press seeking additional comment.

We look forward to him rejoining the court in person in the coming weeks, Chief Justice Elizabeth Clement said.

Bernstein comes from a well-known family in Michigan's legal community, name recognition that helped get him elected in 2014. The Sam Bernstein law firm is a major TV advertiser in the Detroit area.

In 2021, Bernstein took the unusual step of spending months in United Arab Emirates and Israel. He said his goal was to inspire people while talking about his life as a blind lawyer and judge.

The Supreme Court at the time was hearing cases by video conference because of COVID-19. Bernstein participated from overseas and said he was able to keep up with other court work, too.

Follow Ed White at http://twitter.com/edwritez
Textron, makers of the Army's Bell UH-1 Huey helicopter, began its $367 million case Monday against Chinese consumer drone maker DJI in Waco's federal district court.

Attorneys for both Textron Innovations Inc. and Da-Jiang Innovations made opening statements in the patent infringement case before U.S. District Judge Alan Albright and a jury of three women and three men.

DJI, of Shenzhen, China, reached market dominance in the U.S. consumer drone field building and selling drones that employ technology patented by U.S. aerospace company Bell Helicopter, owned by Textron, said Mark Siegmund of Waco law firm Cherry Johnson Siegmund James, during his opening statement to the jury. DJI never licensed the use of the patents from Textron, he said.

Two of the most popular features on DJI consumer drones, follow a vehicle and auto-hover, are based on Textron patents, Siegmund said.

The follow-a-vehicle feature, which enables pilots of helicopters and tiltrotor aircraft to follow ships and land on them, also enables DJI consumer drones to follow snowboarders down mountains or follow cars around neighborhoods, Seigmund said. The feature is based on U.S. patent number 8,014,909 control system for vehicles, issued on Sept. 6, 2011 and owned by Textron.

The auto-hover feature, which enables rotor wing pilots to land their aircraft more safely and easily, also makes flying and operating DJI drones very easy for consumers, Seigmund said. The feature is based on U.S. patent number 9,162,752 flight control laws for automatic hover hold, issued Oct. 20, 2015 and owned by Textron.

In 2019, Textron offered to license the patents to DJI, and DJI did not even return Textrons letter, Seigmund said.

In an opening statement representing DJI, attorney Jacob Schroeder said DJI developed the technologies independently.

Schroeder, of Palo Alto, California, law firm Finnegan, Henderson, Farabow, Garrett & Dunner, said Textrons vehicle-following technology uses both position and direction information of the followed vehicle, while DJIs drones follow vehicles and people just based on the position of the followed vehicle.

DJIs auto-hover feature is not based on a pilot in the vehicle controlling it with mechanical and hydraulic systems like Textrons auto-hover patent. Rather, it is based on a drone operator using a handheld remote control, Schroeder said.

The U.S. consumer drone market has more than $3 billion in revenue, and DJI has a more than 70% market share, Seigmund said. He said he would ask the jury to award damages of what Textron would have received if it had agreed to license the two patents to DJI, between 12% and 14% of the revenue, or around $367 million.

Schroeder said neither Bell, nor Textron, has ever sold a consumer drone based on the two patents. Bell Helicopter primarily manufactures and sells military aircraft to the U.S. government.

Textron did not offer to license the patents, they were looking to sell the patents to DJI in the 2019 letter, Schroeder said. As quickly as technology advances, how could patents from 2011 and 2015 be worth $367 million? Schroeder asked the jury.

DJI is going to ask the jury to award damages of zero, Schroeder said. He also said he would show the jury evidence that Textron should not own the patents in question, because they were not based on the work of Textron or Bell engineers and designers but articles published by engineers from other companies entirely.

Originally founded as Bell Aircraft Corp. in Buffalo, New York by Lawrence Dale Bell, in 1935, Bell Helicopter now builds military rotor wing aircraft in Fort Worth and Amarillo. The company makes commercial helicopters in Canada. Textron bought Bell in 1960.

Wang Tao founded DJI in China around 2006. First making a control system for remote control helicopters, Tao went on to become the worlds first drone billionaire.
This photo captured from Hybe's Weverse fan community platform shows J-Hope of K-pop boy group BTS giving a salute with a buzz cut. Yonhap



J-Hope of the K-pop supergroup BTS began military service Tuesday to become the second member of the group to do so.



The 29-year-old entered an Army boot camp in Wonju, 87 kilometers southeast of Seoul, to begin five weeks' basic training.



In Korea, all able-bodied men are required to serve in the military for about two years.



A black minivan, believed to be carrying him, passed through the main gate at about 1:53 p.m. with some other band members and staff members from the band's agency reportedly traveling in four to five other vehicles to bid him farewell.



He headed directly to the precincts of the camp without getting out of the car or holding a separate event for fans and reporters.



Fans, who were waiting in a drizzling spring rain to catch a glimpse of their favorite star, expressed disappointment when they saw the minivan drive past without stopping.



To prevent possible congestion, the military and police strictly controlled all vehicles passing through the gate. About 30 to 40 journalists were also waiting to cover the K-pop star's arrival, but authorities cordoned off the road leading to the main gate.



Some reporters from foreign media held hours of live streams using smartphones that they installed outside the control line to cover the news.



However, contrary to the enthusiasm of the journalists, there were only about 10 fans gathered, apparently due to the bad weather conditions and the agency's prior announcement that there would be no separate ceremony.



He will become the second BTS member to enroll in the military, following the oldest member, Jin, who began his military service in December.



J-Hope took to Hybe's Weverse fan community platform to share with fans a message and a photo of himself giving a salute with a buzz cut on Monday night.



"I love you all. ARMY, I will return safely," he wrote, addressing the band's global fandom by name. (Yonhap)


A man was indicted Thursday who Hewitt police say broke into a womans home Jan. 15 while she was asleep, beat her and raped her.

A McLennan County grand jury indicted Alto Rhodes, 52, of Hewitt, on Thursday on a first-degree felony charge of burglary of a habitation; a second-degree felony charge of sexual assault; third-degree felony charges of retaliation, violation of a protective order and assault family-violence by impeding breathing; and a Class A misdemeanor charge of evading arrest.

About 3 a.m. Jan. 15, Rhodes broke into a home in the 100 block of Royal Lane, the residence of a woman who has a protective order against him, according to his arrest affidavits. Rhodes choked the woman, threw her to the floor fracturing her wrist and sexually assaulted her multiple times, the affidavits say.

The woman told police Rhodes ordered her to either use methamphetamine with him or perform oral sex on him, before the first sexual assault, then dragged her by her hair into the bedroom and sexually assaulted her again, an affidavit says.

The woman eventually convinced Rhodes to leave the residence and sought help once he left, the Tribune-Herald reported at the time.

Police obtained warrants for Rhodes arrest and at about 7:30 p.m. Jan. 15 went to the 800 block of Majestic Drive to serve the warrants, the Tribune-Herald previously reported. He led officers on a foot chase and gave a false name when they cornered him near a dumpster, an affidavit says.
The Waco City Council on Tuesday is set to approve a new contract with the Cameron Park Zoological and Botanical Society meant to maintain their current relationship after months of negotiation and strife.

The contract between the city and the society was set to expire Sept. 30, but council has approved four extensions in the midst of tense conversations with the zoo society.

Zoo society board members raised questions with a previous draft in December regarding increased society membership rates; split membership revenue, which had previously gone only to the society; and increased city control of communications materials.

A new version of the contract submitted by the city in late December resolved several issues, society board Chair Nancy Lacy said at the time. She then declined to give specifics pending ongoing negotiations. The city council extended its negotiation deadline most recently in February.

The new three-year agreement to be considered Tuesday would sustain most aspects of the city and zoo societys relationship, according to the agenda for Tuesday's city council meeting. The city would continue to own and govern the property, while the zoo society would serve as a support organization.

A new agreement would be good through Sept. 30, 2025, with the opportunity for two yearlong renewals.

The approved contract would also establish a new capital improvement matching challenge where the city could contribute up to $7.5 million over three years to match private donations received by the zoo society. It is unclear whether this would substitute or be in addition to the citys yearly subsidy that bridges the gap between zoo revenue and operating expenses.

According to a council document, funding to match the societys donations will come from available city sources. Sources could include tax increment financing upon approval by the Tax Increment Financing Zone 1 board. The zoo sits in TIF 1. The meeting agenda packet also lists the city's special projects reserve fund as a source that could cover the match.

Also on Tuesdays agenda:

A preliminary plat for a residential subdivision bordering Cameron Park is up for public hearing and approval. The development has caught criticism from the surrounding neighborhood association, which requested the city expand the Brazos River Corridor District to cover its whole territory, including the new development. A preliminary plat could be approved Tuesday, though the zoning overlay districts possible expansion would require the developer, Turner Behringer, to consider additional landscaping, lighting and infrastructure requirements. The overlay's limits on impermeable ground cover, in particular, could force changes.

The council will conduct a first reading and public hearing for a 241-home planned unit development at 2001 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. The PUD if approved would offer a mixture of housing types and would be East Wacos largest new subdivision in decades. The Waco Plan Commission approved the special zoning plan on March 28.

The meeting will start with a work session at 3 p.m. Tuesday in the Bosque Theater at the Waco Convention Center, 100 Washington Ave., followed by a business session at 6 p.m. at the same location.
Abbot volunteer firefighter Horace Daniel Wright, called "Pops" by the community and his colleagues, was directing traffic along Interstate 35 last Friday when a firetruck being maneuvered near a stranded vehicle backed over him where he had fallen. Life-saving efforts that included a helicopter trip to Baylor Scott & White Hillcrest proved unsuccessful.

Wright, 71, joined the fire department just last summer, he and his wife, Susan, moving to Abbott from Dallas-Fort Worth. He had enjoyed a long career with Caterpillar, the heavy-equipment company. A commenter on his online funeral notice called him an expert on the Cat product line.

A press release from the 18-member Abbott Volunteer Fire Department calls Wright a reliable member who "rarely missed a call and was always volunteering to assist around the station, with the trucks, and with required paperwork."

"It's hitting hard, with him being a very loyal, dedicated member, and with today being the anniversary of the West explosion, and our involvement in that situation," Abbott Fire Department's Doreen Strickland said Monday.

First responders from around McLennan County and beyond responded to the massive fertilizer plant explosion April 17, 2013, a cataclysmic event that killed 15 people, including 12 firefighters, two from Abbott's department. The explosion wounded hundreds and leveled hundreds of structures, but also galvanized a community that has made a remarkable recovery.

At Saturday's 10th anniversary memorial service held at West City Park, word spread that the unthinkable had happened. Another area volunteer firefighter had been killed carrying out his duties the night before.

Wendy Norris, president and CEO of Houston-based Texas Line of Duty Death Response Team, said she drove up to West on Friday to assist with ceremony preparations when she heard of Wright's death.

"I was called from one of my team members, and a few seconds later, from someone with West EMS, telling Mr. Wright had died in this accident," Norris said in a phone interview. "We're an all-volunteer entity, so depending on where volunteers are located, sometimes we are able to respond right away. During the West explosion, we had team members on the scene in a few hours. In this particular incident, we went to the hospital directly."

Norris said when a first responder, such as Wright, dies in the line of duty, a protocol called "cultural duties" is placed into effect.

"One of the most important, which starts immediately, is never leaving a first responder alone," Norris said. "Another first responder stands watch. In this case, a DPS officer stood watch, standing outside the door of the trauma room. From the time a first responder dies in the line of duty until they are buried, there is always a first responder standing watch, usually 24 hours a day. Because Mr. Wright's funeral is this Friday, we may have some gaps to fill. But we will do our best to make sure he is never left alone."

Services for Wright are scheduled 11 a.m. Friday at Lake Shore Funeral Home Chapel, 5201 Steinbeck Bend Drive. Survivors include his wife of 48 years, Susan; son Brent Wright, wife Lisa and grandchildren Aiden, Carson and Brooke, all of Frisco; and several brothers and sisters.

Originally releasing information about the fatality, the Hill County Sheriff's Office said the Abbott Fire Department responded to what it thought was a motor vehicle crash near I-35's mile marker 359. Turns out the incident involved a stranded motorist, and firefighters remained on the scene to assist with traffic control until a wrecker arrived, authorities reported.

During this wait, Wright was killed when a firetruck backed into him, according to information provided by the Department of Public Safety.

DPS Sgt. Ryan Howard said Monday the incident remains under investigation, as does a wreck late last month on the interstate that claimed the life of West volunteer firefighter Eddie Hykel. Hykel was struck by a big rig while working a car fire with DPS troopers.
The timing of a nationwide switch to electric cars is crucial, especially in light of the Supreme Court's extreme conservatism, which sees the laws as an example of government overreach.

The administration of President Joe Biden has recommended the implementation of stringent regulations to significantly accelerate the nation's transition to electric vehicles and considerably reduce the amount of auto pollution contributing to the planet's catastrophic warming. However, implementing these regulations faces several obstacles on the economic, logistical, and legal fronts, making it difficult to accomplish.

If the laws were to be approved as they are now suggested, it would imply a quantum leap for the automotive sector in the United States. The proposals, which the Environmental Protection Agency presented on Wednesday, are intended to guarantee that by the year 2032, two-thirds of new passenger cars and one-fourth of new heavy trucks sold in the United States will be all-electric vehicles. There were just 5.8 percent of new vehicles and fewer than 2 percent of trucks sold in the United States that were all-electric last year.

.The transportation sector represents the primary contributor to the production of greenhouse gases within the United States, which is the second most significant emitter of such gases globally, following China. President Biden has pledged to reduce the country's emissions by 50% by the year 2030 to prevent a potential climate crisis. Reducing tailpipe emissions is a crucial aspect of the aforementioned strategy.

In order to achieve its ambitious goals for the American automobile industry, the Biden administration must overcome opposition from both manufacturers and consumers, in addition to potential legal obstacles from those who view the regulations as an encroachment of government authority.

The temporal dimension constitutes a crucial factor in the wholesale adoption of electric vehicles.

The proposed regulations present a quandary for automakers who have already allocated significant funds towards electrification. Specifically, they must grapple with the challenge of maintaining the production of gasoline-powered vehicles, which generate profits, while simultaneously increasing investment in new electric infrastructure. The government's ambitious timeline may pose a challenge for car manufacturers in terms of procuring the necessary materials for vehicle batteries, which are already scarce.

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Another obstacle to overcome is the market's demand. Even with federal tax incentives for buyers that may reach up to $7,500, electric vehicles still have a higher initial cost than traditional automobiles and pickup trucks. According to the Kelley Blue Book, the price of an average new automobile by the end of 2022 was $49,507, while the price of an electric vehicle was $61,448. The dread of being stranded because an electric car cannot reach its destination on a single charge and there are not enough fast-charging stations available is known as "range anxiety." However, even for customers who are driven to purchase electric vehicles and who have the financial means to do so, range anxiety remains a significant barrier.

"This was always going to be a transformation that was going to happen over decades," said Stephanie Brinley, an automotive analyst at S&P Global. Because we have such a tight schedule, there are a lot of activities that have to take place one after the other as well as simultaneously.

The new regulations are vulnerable to being overturned, either by the courts or by a future president, and this is a danger that hangs over the whole situation like a dark cloud.

The sector is already making significant strides toward a fully electric future in many respects. General Motors has committed to ending the production of all cars powered by an internal combustion engine by the year 2035. Ford Motor Company has expressed the goal that electric vehicles would account for half of its sales by the year 2030. The goals of Volkswagen and Stellantis, the business that resulted from the merger of Fiat Chrysler and Peugeot, are quite similar. Additionally, Hyundai and Nissan are working to increase their output of electric vehicles.

However, the new laws would place even more stringent requirements on automotive manufacturers.

Ford is on schedule to invest $50 billion between 2022 and 2026 in the manufacturing of electric vehicles. The company already has two battery factories under development in Kentucky, and a third is slated to be built in Tennessee, along with a factory to produce electric trucks. In February, it made the announcement that it would collaborate with a Chinese company to construct a battery facility in Michigan at the cost of $3.5 billion.

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Automakers such as Ford have yet to acquire adequate supplies of essential materials, including lithium, nickel, cobalt, manganese, and others, necessary for the production of automotive batteries. The origin of these materials remains uncertain.

The Biden administration is relying on the prospect of reduced electric vehicle expenses through mass production, whereas Carlos Tavares, the CEO of Stellantis, has expressed that the challenge of material procurement presents a hindrance to this goal. During a conference held in Detroit, Mr. Tavares expressed that the lack of affordability can be attributed to the scarcity and high cost of raw materials, which are also subject to volatility.

The manufacturing of electric cars is now being financed by the significant profits that automakers make from the sale of gas-powered pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles. However, analysts predict that it will be difficult for automakers to keep their profit margins stable as they build an increasing number of electric cars and a decreasing number of models powered by gasoline.

General Motors has said that it is not yet generating money on its electric cars, while Ford has just stated that its electric business is on track to lose $3 billion this year. Both of these statements are accurate. Both businesses are ramping up the production of electric vehicles in the hopes of turning a profit. Still, in the meanwhile, they are working to reduce expenses, particularly in light of the uncertain economic climate.

As part of an attempt to cut expenses by $2 billion, General Motors is now in the process of cutting 5,000 positions. Ford started eliminating around 3,000 positions from its workforce late last year.

And even though the number of electric vehicles being purchased is on the rise, many people shopping for cars are wary of the new technology.

The price is the most fundamental barrier.

Over the next decade, depending on how much of the car was built in the United States, the federal government will award consumers tax credits of up to $7,500 for purchasing an electric vehicle. Mr. Bozzella estimates that only around 40% of the 91 different electric car models now available in the nation are eligible for tax incentives.

Electric car drivers also have concerns about how to charge their vehicles. According to the White House, 130,000 public charging stations exist for electric vehicles in the United States. The government will invest $7.5 billion to install 500,000 EV charging stations along federal roads as part of the 2021 infrastructure plan. S&P Global released research in January estimating the demand for public charging stations nationwide at over 2 million.

Rentals are one method manufacturers of electric vehicles use in their campaign to win over customers. Hertz, a rental car firm, made electric vehicles twenty percent of its fleet in 2021 after purchasing one hundred thousand Teslas. Most other big automobile rental firms are also expanding their fleets to include electric cars.

"Rental cars are an excellent way to move E.V.s from niche to mainstream," said Drew Kodjak, executive director of the International Council on Clean Transportation, a research group. "Rental cars are an excellent way to move electric vehicles from niche to mainstream." "It gives customers the opportunity to put electric vehicles through their paces for a few days to determine whether or not they like them and how they feel about range anxiety," he said.

Rental firms, such as Teslas, are eligible for tax credits of up to $7,500 per vehicle if they purchase electric cars manufactured in the United States. And the government under President Joe Biden has made it simpler for auto rental firms to resell the vehicles after a few years by allowing purchasers to obtain tax credits of up to $4,000 for purchasing secondhand electric vehicles.

Despite the potential for companies to efficiently produce cost-effective electric vehicles and for consumers to overcome concerns regarding driving range, the suggested regulations are likely to encounter legal opposition or be influenced by fluctuating political circumstances.

According to Mike Sommers, the President of the American Petroleum Institute, an organization that advocates for the interests of the oil and gas industry, the regulations represent a significant move towards prohibiting the usage of vehicles essential to Americans.

According to Mr. Sommers, the suggested regulation can negatively impact consumers by increasing costs and creating a greater dependence on unpredictable foreign supply chains.

Donald J. Trump, the previous President of the United States, took pleasure in reversing the automobile pollution regulations put in place by his predecessor, Barack Obama. A future president can take similar actions concerning the regulations implemented during the Biden administration.

A cohort of Republican attorneys general, a significant proportion of whom hail from states with a thriving oil industry, have already contested a number of the climate policies put forth by the Biden administration. It is worth noting that none of these policies are as ambitious as the proposed regulations on automobile pollution.

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On Wednesday, Attorney General Patrick Morrisey of West Virginia indicated that the aforementioned group would oppose the latest proposals.

According to Steven G. Bradbury, the former chief legal counsel for the Transportation Department under the Trump administration, the proposed regulations would constitute excessive government intervention.

According to Mr. Bradbury, who previously served as a clerk for Justice Clarence Thomas, the utilization of a well-established and long-standing statute is being repurposed to achieve a novel objective, namely the conversion of the industry to electric vehicles. The attainment of these outcomes is evidently motivated by the instruction of the head of state. It is doubtful that this can be accomplished. Congress did not previously consider the utilization of statutes in this manner.

According to Jody Freeman, an environmental law professor at Harvard University and former climate adviser to President Obama, the Clean Air Act has effectively compelled polluting industries to invest in emission-reducing technologies for a considerable time.

However, she acknowledged that the present Supreme Court, comprising six justices nominated by Republican presidents, including three appointed by Mr. Trump, may not interpret it similarly.

According to Ms. Freeman, the court exhibits a strong aversion towards any form of regulation and displays a particularly antagonistic attitude towards the Environmental Protection Agency.

Biden admin accelerating electric vehicle movement with new standards
Civil societies and environmental groups protest the government's pro-nuclear energy policies and the discharge of contaminated water from Japan's Fukushima nuclear power plant in front of Seoul Finance Center, March 9. Yonhap



Korean imports of Japanese seafood swelled nearly 21 percent in the first quarter of 2023 despite concerns over Tokyo's planned release of contaminated water from its crippled nuclear power plant, government data showed Tuesday.



Seoul imported $48.6 million worth of fishery products from the neighboring country in the January-March period, up 20.9 percent from a year earlier, according to the data from the Korea Customs Service.



It marked the largest first-quarter value of Japanese seafood imports since the meltdown of the Fukushima nuclear power plant in 2011.



In terms of volume, Japanese seafood imports came to some 7,670 tons in the three-month period, up 15 percent from a year earlier.



Korea banned all seafood imports from eight Japanese prefectures near Fukushima in 2013 on concerns over their radiation levels in the wake of the incident.



First-quarter imports of Japanese seafood rose on-year in the recent three years after seesawing from 2015 to 2019 following a three-year tumble.



In the first quarter of this year, the value of Korea's overall seafood imports fell 1 percent on-year to $1.42 billion, with their volume sinking 6.2 percent to 349,000 tons.



Industry watchers said the issue of Tokyo's planned discharge of contaminated water appears to have had little impact on Seoul's seafood imports from the country.



But the situation could change should Japan release tainted water from the nuclear power plant in the coming months as planned, they added.



Seoul officials have said Korea will never lift the import curbs "if it poses any threat to the people's safety and health."



Last year, Korea's imports of Japanese seafood hit a 12-year high of $174.2 million on a surge in imports of expensive live fish. (Yonhap)


Feedback is being sought about how people use the internet and digital services in general. This is a chance to speak up and help the state identify ways to provide assistance with any challenges. Attendees will hear a short presentation on digital services followed by a discussion with the audience on the barriers and potential solutions for full participation in the digital aspects of society.
MercyOne seeks volunteers

WATERLOO  As the nation celebrates National Volunteer Week, MercyOne is celebrating the many volunteers who help its hospitals operate.

Volunteer opportunities vary at each hospital and include greeting and escorting patients and visitors at entrances, driving patients to and from appointments, being a mail/medical runner and assisting with projects and clerical duties.

The following positions are needed at MercyOne Northeast Iowa:

Greeters/ambassadors  welcome and assist visitors with where they need to go, make deliveries.

Gift shop  ring up sales, provide customer service.

Patient advocate  visit with patients on the floors.

Spiritual care  Communion, night chaplain, pastoral visitors.

Volunteers must be at least 16 years old. For more information about how to become a volunteer and to apply, visit MercyOne.org/volunteer.

Digital access town hall set

WATERLOO  Iowas Department of Management is holding a 6 p.m. Wednesday town hall at Hawkeye Community Colleges Van G. Miller Adult Learning Center, 120 Jefferson St.

Its one of more than 50 public town hall-style meetings happening statewide to get feedback from everyday Iowans on digital services, including broadband.

Feedback is being sought about how people use the internet and digital services in general. This is a chance to speak up and help the state identify ways to provide assistance with any challenges. Attendees will hear a short presentation on digital services followed by a discussion with the audience on the barriers and potential solutions for full participation in the digital aspects of society:

The town hall should last about 90 minutes. For more information, contact broadband@iowa.gov.

Water mains to be flushed

WATERLOO  On Thursday, water mains will be flushed in the area from Burton Avenue to Cedar Bend Street between West Donald Street and Conger Street.

Water may be a brownish color during and after the flushing but the water is bacterially safe. Waterloo Water Works urges customers within the area and several blocks of it to not plan clothes washing on Thursday.

CF roundabout leg to close

CEDAR FALLS  Beginning Thursday, the southern leg of the Greenhill Road and South Main Street roundabout will close for two weeks to allow for the completion of crosswalks, sidewalks, trail, and splitter island brick. Traffic will be detoured using Bluebell Avenue and Coneflower Parkway.

Veterans post holds fish fry

WAVERLY  A fish fry will be held Friday at the Waverly Area Veterans Post, 1300 Fourth St. N.W. The meal is open to the public.

Cod Loin, baked beans, cole slaw and homemade potato salad will be served for $14. Dine-in is 5:30-7 p.m., lower level. Reservations are optional.

Carry out will be available 5-6 p.m., with front door delivery. Orders for carry out must be in by 4 p.m. Thursday. Contact the post at (319) 483-9287 for carry out or reservations.

Learn more about the post online at www.waverlyvets.us.

Bat workshop at Fontana Park

HAZLETON  Fontana Park in Buchanan County will hold a presentation on bats at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, April 22, at the Fontana Nature Center, 1883 125th St. in Hazleton.

After the presentation there will be an opportunity to build a bat house to take home.

The presentation is free, and the bat house is $15 per box.

To register for program visit www.buchanancountyparks.com.

Show offers rush tickets

CEDAR FALLS  The Book of Mormon will offer rush tickets for performances Friday, Saturday and Sunday at the Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center on the University of Northern Iowa campus.

A limited number of tickets will be available in person at the GBPAC ticket office, 8201 Dakota St., for $25 each 90 minutes before each curtain time.

Tickets prices otherwise start at $44.

Evening performances are 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 6:30 p.m. Sunday. Matinees are at 2 p.m. Saturday and 1 p.m. Sunday. For more information, visit thebookofmormontour.com
WATERLOO  An investigation into a double shooting last week has led to drug charges against a Waterloo teen.

Waterloo police arrested Jalyis Uriah Thomas, 18, on Friday on charges of possession of marijuana with intent to deliver. He was released pending trial.

A 16 year old and a 14 year old were shot by someone in a passing vehicle while they were outside Thomas home at 500 Reed St. at about 9:55 p.m. April 12. Both survived.

No one has been arrested in connection with the shooting.

As part of the investigation into the gunfire, officers obtained a search warrant for the home and located distribution quantities of marijuana and a scale, according to court records.

The US surpasses 160 mass shootings in 2023. Here's every event mapped Mass shootings take place in nearly every type of public and private space Mass shootings have happened in gun-friendly statesand some stricter ones Mass shootings have happened in gun-friendly statesand some stricter ones Mass shootings take place in nearly every type of public and private space Mass shootings take place in nearly every type of public and private space Mass shootings have happened in gun-friendly statesand some stricter ones Mass shootings take place in nearly every type of public and private space Mass shootings have happened in gun-friendly statesand some stricter ones The US surpasses 100 mass shootings in 2023here's every event mapped
WATERLOO  Bond has been set at $700,000 for an Illinois man who was arrested on meth charges while awaiting trial on earlier drug charges.

Waterloo police arrested Antonio Rayshaun Evans, 37, of Stone Park, Ill., on Tuesday for charges of possession of methamphetamine with intent to deliver. He was also detained on a pre-trial release violation.

According to court records, Evans delivered 4 pounds of meth to a confidential source April 2. Then on Tuesday morning, officers stopped Evans in Iowa and found $4,900 in cash, drug ledgers and a scale. He was detained.

Evans is awaiting trial for an Oct. 1 incident in Waterloo where he allegedly fled a vehicle that sheriffs deputies were following. Officers found a bag with 90 grams of meth, 165 grams of crack cocaine and 42 ecstasy pills near where the vehicle stopped. Evans was reportedly carrying $1,000 in cash, records state.
WATERLOO  A man serving time for a 2017 mugging has fled from a halfway house.

Dana Lee Scott Jr., 22, failed to return to the Waterloo Residential Correctional Facility on Monday, according to officials with the Iowa Department of Corrections.

He had been serving prison time for a charge of second-degree robbery, and he was transferred to the facility March 16 for work release.

Scott is described as a black male, 5 feet 11 inches tall, and weighing 217 pounds.

He was convicted in an August 2017 incident where he and two others beat a Waterloo man and took $5 in cash from him.

'Ramadan Camp' reaches Muslim children across the globe
CEDAR FALLS  University of Northern Iowa student Lexi Gause has been named a Newman Civic Fellow.

The social work major is part of a cohort of 154 student civic leaders named 2023-24 fellows by Campus Compact, a national coalition of colleges and universities working to advance the public purposes of higher education. Students from 38 states, Washington D.C. and Mexico to form the cohort.

The Newman Civic Fellowship recognizes students who stand out for their commitment to creating positive change in communities locally and around the world. Fellows are nominated by Campus Compact member presidents and chancellors, who are invited to select one outstanding student from their campus each year.

Gause is a first-generation college student from Cedar Rapids. She serves as president of the Black Student Union, vice president of membership and engagement for Panther Ambassadors and is part of the Thrive Mentoring program. After completing her bachelors degree, Gause plans on pursuing her masters in social work with an emphasis in clinical social work.

Lexi is a true leader and takes pride in everything she does, wrote President Mark Nook in his nomination letter. It is evident by her grades, volunteer work and involvement at UNI. She knows hard work and is never afraid to roll her sleeves up and get involved.

Through the fellowship, Campus Compact will provide these students with a year of learning and networking opportunities that emphasize personal, professional and civic growth. Each year, fellows participate in numerous virtual training and networking opportunities to help provide them with the skills and connections they need to create large-scale positive change.

The cornerstone of the fellowship is the Annual Convening of Fellows, which offers intensive in-person skill-building and networking over the course of two days. The program also provides fellows with pathways to apply for exclusive scholarship and post-graduate opportunities.

Photos: UNI softball vs. Southern Illinois, April 14 SBall UNI vs. SIU 1 SBall UNI vs. SIU 2 SBall UNI vs. SIU 3 SBall UNI vs. SIU 4 SBall UNI vs. SIU 5 SBall UNI vs. SIU 6 SBall UNI vs. SIU 7 SBall UNI vs. SIU 8 SBall UNI vs. SIU 9 SBall UNI vs. SIU 10 SBall UNI vs. SIU 11
WATERLOO  Places to live will grow throughout the city as construction of new infill development and a large apartment complex move forward.

The City Council approved three new housing projects and amended another development agreement Monday.

The sale and conveyance of city-owned property to Baltimore Fields, LLC, of Waterloo is expected to result in the construction of 18 single-family homes east of 1003 Vermont St. The land was sold for $1 with a development agreement which includes a $5,000 infill incentive upon completion of each house.

Community Planning and Development Director Noel Anderson said there were previously two developers who planned to build on the site but the partnership broke up and the land reverted to the city.

He noted that the city has an incentive to sell the land for $1 because it will gain new revenue from property taxes, utilities usage and garbage fees. Other benefits to the city are a growing population and an increased local workforce.

The city also approved the sale and conveyance of a vacant lot located northeast of 1522 West Fourth St. to Iowa Heartland Habitat for Humanity for $1 with a development agreement and a grant of $5,000 for infill housing.

The city has owned the lot, which is located in the Church Row neighborhood, since 2011.

I want to say how proud I am (of) Habitat for Humanity coming to Waterloo and shifting a change in our neighborhoods, Councilmember Nia Wilder said, adding that the project will bring the community together and beautify the area.

The sale of another city-owned vacant lot east of 307 Gable St. to Operation Threshold was approved, as well. Anderson said the lot is two blocks from houses built by Hawkeye Community College on Newell Street. The purchase cost is $3,860 plus up to $1,000 in closing costs.

Were making sure were building houses in every part of the community, Mayor Quentin Hart said.

An amendment to a real estate purchase agreement with Union at North Crossing LP for the construction of a 180-unit multi-family residential development was approved 5-1. Councilmember Dave Boesen dissented and Councilmember Belinda Creighton-Smith was absent.

The apartment complex, located at 3330 E. Fourth St. and 151, 153 and 155 Mission Circle, must have a minimum assessed value of $5 million. There would be no property tax rebates for years one through four. The agreement calls for rebates of 40% for years five through seven, 50% for years eight and nine, and 60% for years 10 and 11.

Boesen said he voted against the resolution because he previously voted no on the purchase agreement.

Photos: UNI softball vs. Southern Illinois, April 14 SBall UNI vs. SIU 1 SBall UNI vs. SIU 2 SBall UNI vs. SIU 3 SBall UNI vs. SIU 4 SBall UNI vs. SIU 5 SBall UNI vs. SIU 6 SBall UNI vs. SIU 7 SBall UNI vs. SIU 8 SBall UNI vs. SIU 9 SBall UNI vs. SIU 10 SBall UNI vs. SIU 11
CEDAR FALLS  Members of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowas youth philanthropy program, Teen Trust, traveled around Black Hawk County via the grantsmobile last week to award their 2023 grants.

The 23 trustees from Black Hawk County high schools awarded $15,225 in grants to eight area nonprofits. The nonprofits that received a grant, along with the project name and grant award amount, include:

Boys and Girls Clubs of the Cedar Valley, SMART Girls Mentorship Program, $1,500.

Cedar Valley Preschool and Child Care Center, Increasing Child Care Through Mentoring Boards & Directors, $2,000.

Loving Tanner, Love & Loss Bereavement Box Initiative, $2,225.

Lutheran Services in Iowa, Trauma Informed Services for Detained Youth, $2,000.

North Star Community Services, Creating Connections: Inclusive Theatre Project, $2,000.

Operation Threshold, Pocket Change, $1,500.

Riverview Center, Sexual Assault Crisis Response Toolkit, $2,500.

SuccessLink, Young Parents Together, $1,500.

The grant funds are available to 5013 agencies addressing community needs in Black Hawk County and are within criteria that the trustees determine as priorities.

The trustees work as a team to decide which organizations to assist through financial aid and/or volunteerism by using a grant application system, site visits and training seminars.

According to a news release, this program illuminates the role in which students can be vital community contributors now, through hands-on education in giving back, as well as valuable leaders in the future.

This group of students is led by a student director, a local college student who empowers and challenges high school students to address, identify and seek solutions to community needs while building a sense of social responsibility.

Current Teen Trust members include 11 students from Cedar Falls High School, two from Columbus High School, three from Don Bosco High School, two from Hudson High School and five from West High School.

The Teen Trust program is accepting applications through April 28 for high school students to serve on Teen Trust for the 2023-24 season.

The program is also hiring for next years student director who works with and reports to the Teen Trust program director. More information and the online applications can be found at www.cfneia.org/teentrust.

Questions regarding the Teen Trust program can be directed to Sloan Alberhasky, Teen Trust program director, at salberhasky@cfneia.org or (319) 243-1365.

Ludicrous Landscapes by Katie Walbert katie walberg artwork .jpg 011320kw-ludicrous-landscape-09 011320kw-ludicrous-landscape-06 011320kw-ludicrous-landscape-07 011320kw-ludicrous-landscape-08 011320kw-ludicrous-landscape-01 011320kw-ludicrous-landscape-02 011320kw-ludicrous-landscape-03 011320kw-ludicrous-landscape-04 011320kw-ludicrous-landscape-05
WATERLOO  The public is invited to join the Waterloo Community Foundation and Friendship Village Foundation from 3 to 4 p.m. on Monday, April 24 for a charitable giving strategies seminar.

Representatives from Stifel will provide basic information and an explanation of the roles Stifel Trust Company and Stifel Donor Advised Funds can play in helping individuals pursue their charitable giving objectives.

The seminar will be held at the Friendship Village Event Center at 600 Park Lane in Waterloo. The event is free to attend and all are welcome.

Those interested should RSVP to Kathy Frampton, Friendship Village development assistant, at (319) 291-8149 or kframpton@fvrc.com.

Photos: UNI softball vs. Southern Illinois, April 14 SBall UNI vs. SIU 1 SBall UNI vs. SIU 2 SBall UNI vs. SIU 3 SBall UNI vs. SIU 4 SBall UNI vs. SIU 5 SBall UNI vs. SIU 6 SBall UNI vs. SIU 7 SBall UNI vs. SIU 8 SBall UNI vs. SIU 9 SBall UNI vs. SIU 10 SBall UNI vs. SIU 11
WATERLOO  On Thursday, water mains will be flushed in the area from Burton Avenue to Cedar Bend Street between West Donald Street and Conger Street.

Water may be a brownish color during and after the flushing but the water is bacterially safe. Waterloo Water Works urges customers within the area and several blocks of it to not plan clothes washing on Thursday.
gettyimagebanks



By Yi Whan-woo



The Korea Customs Service (KCS) said Tuesday it has joined a massive campaign led by the government aimed at drug-related crime, drug trafficking and the punishment and rehabilitation of persons addicted to drugs.



It also said it has separately begun a crackdown on those exploiting the loopholes in customs law and avoiding due process in buying goods from abroad.



Operated under the Ministry of Economy and Finance, the KCS said it will dispatch a carefully selected number of officers for a special investigation unit on drug-related crimes. The unit will consist of 840 police officers, prosecutors and customs agents.



"We'll fully cooperate in every step of the government's efforts to counter drug-related crimes, including investigation and trial," the KCS said in a press release.



On drug trafficking, the KCS will share its data on smuggling cases to help create a comprehensive database on drug trafficking rings.



The investigation unit will work with doctors and other experts on drugs to assess whether drug addicts need to undergo medical treatment and rehabilitation before charges are brought against them.



For those who need rehabilitation, the unit will cooperate with 24 hospitals nationwide, increase relevant expenditure and make sure patients receive medical attention consistently.



Concerning the exploitation of customs law, the KCS said it has been allowing shoppers to skip complicated import processes when buying pharmaceuticals, nutritional supplements and other health-related items in small quantities from abroad if they are for individual use, not for commercial sale.



"And it turned out some shoppers have been re-selling products to make a profit, and what they've been doing is against the law because the import of goods for commercial sales requires completely different steps," the KCS said.



It went on to say, "We'll make sure to prevent the inflow of goods that can disrupt rules on health and safety for the people."


WILMINGTON, Del.  Fox and Dominion Voting Systems reached a $787 million settlement Tuesday in the voting machine company's defamation lawsuit, averting a trial in a case that exposed how the top-rated network chased viewers by promoting lies about the 2020 presidential election.

"The truth matters. Lies have consequences," Dominion lawyer Justin Nelson said in a news conference outside the courthouse after a judge announced the deal.

Dominion asked for $1.6 billion in arguing that Fox damaged its reputation by helping peddle phony conspiracy theories about its equipment switching votes from former President Donald Trump to Democrat Joe Biden. Fox said the amount greatly overstated the value of the Colorado-based company.

The resolution in Delaware Superior Court follows a recent ruling by Judge Eric Davis in which he allowed the case to go to trial while emphasizing it was "CRYSTAL clear" that none of the allegations about Dominion by Trump allies aired on Fox were true.

In a statement shortly after the announcement, Fox News said the network acknowledged "the court's rulings finding certain claims about Dominion to be false." It did not respond to an inquiry asking for elaboration.

Inquiries to Dominion and Fox Corp. were not immediately returned.

Records in the lawsuit showed how Fox hosts and executives did not believe the claims by Trump's allies but aired them anyway, in part to win back viewers who fled the network after it correctly called hotly contested Arizona for Biden on election night. The race call infuriated Trump and many viewers who supported him.

The settlement, which does not need the judge's approval, will end a case that has proven a major embarrassment for Fox News. If the case had gone to trial, it also would have presented one of the sternest tests to a libel standard that has protected media organizations for more than a half-century.

Several First Amendment experts said Dominion's case was among the strongest they ever saw. Still, there was doubt about whether Dominion would be able to prove to a jury that people in a decision-making capacity at Fox could be held responsible for the network's airing of the falsehoods.

Dominion's lawyers argued that Fox defamed the voting machine company by making a deliberate decision to repeatedly air, in the weeks after the 2020 presidential election, false claims by Trump and his allies to appeal to viewers. Fox allowed guests to falsely claim Dominion rigged the election, flipped large numbers of votes to Biden through a secret algorithm, was owned by a company founded in Venezuela to rig elections for late President Hugo Chavez and bribed government officials.

A mountain of evidence  released in the form of deposition transcripts, internal memos and emails from the time  damaged Fox.

Dominion pointed to text and email messages in which Fox insiders discounted and sometimes mocked the vote manipulation claims. One Fox Corp. vice president called them "MIND BLOWINGLY NUTS."

The company sued both Fox News and its parent, Fox Corp., and said its business was significantly damaged.

During a deposition, Fox Corp. Chairman Rupert Murdoch, who founded the network, testified that he believed the 2020 election was fair and not stolen from Trump.

"Fox knew the truth," Dominion argued in court papers. "It knew the allegations against Dominion were 'outlandish' and 'crazy' and 'ludicrous' and 'nuts.' Yet it used the power and influence of its platform to promote that false story."

In his March 31 summary judgment ruling, Davis pointedly called out the news organization for airing falsehoods while noting how the bogus election claims persist, 2 years after Trump lost his bid for reelection.

"The statements at issue were dramatically different than the truth," Davis said in that ruling. "In fact, although it cannot be attributed directly to Fox's statements, it is noteworthy that some Americans still believe the election was rigged."

In its defense, Fox said it was obligated to report on the most newsworthy of stories: a president claiming he was cheated out of reelection.

"We never reported those to be true," Fox lawyer Erin Murphy said. "All we ever did was provide viewers the true fact that these were allegations that were being made."

Fox said Dominion argued that the network was obligated to suppress the allegations or denounce them as false.

"Freedom of speech and of the press would be illusory if the prevailing side in a public controversy could sue the press for giving a forum to the losing side," Fox said in court papers.

In a 1964 case involving The New York Times, the U.S. Supreme Court limited the ability of public figures to sue for defamation. The court ruled that plaintiffs needed to prove that news outlets published or aired false material with "actual malice"  knowing such material was false or acting with a "reckless disregard" for whether or not it was true.

That provides news organizations with stout protection against libel judgments. Yet some conservatives attacked the nearly six-decade legal standard in recent years, including Trump and Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida, who argued for making it easier to win a libel case.

Two Republican-nominated Supreme Court justices  Clarence Thomas and Neil Gorsuch  publicly expressed interest in revisiting the protection.

World reacts to US 2020 presidential election
NASHVILLE, Tenn.  Its almost 4 p.m. at the Nashville branch of the Tennessee College of Applied Technology, and the students in the auto collision repair night class are just starting their school day.

One is sanding the seal off the bed of his 1989 Ford F-350. Another is patiently hammering out a banged-up fender. A third, Cheven Jones, is taking a break from working on his 2003 Lexus IS 300 to chat with some classmates.

While almost every sector of higher education has fewer students registering for classes, many trade programs are thriving. Jones and his classmates, seeking certificates and other short-term credentials  not associate degrees  are part of that upswing.

Trade programs are often more affordable than a traditional four-year degree, students note, and, for many, skilled trades offer a more obvious path to a job.

Mechanic and repair trade programs saw an enrollment increase of 11.5% from spring 2021 to 2022, according to the National Student Clearinghouse. In construction trades, enrollment grew 19.3%, and in culinary programs, it increased 12.7%. Meanwhile, overall enrollment declined 7.8% at public two-year colleges, and 3.4% at public four-year institutions.

In Tennessee, the states overall community college enrollment took a hit during the pandemic, despite a 2015 state program that made community college tuition free. But at the Tennessee College of Applied Technology, a network of 24 colleges that offers training for 70 occupations, many trade programs have continued to grow. At TCAT Nashville, several programs have waiting lists, and the college has added night classes to meet demand, said Nathan Garrett, president of the college.

TCAT focuses on training students for jobs that are in demand in the region, which appeals to many students in normal times, but Garrett said the pandemic may have underscored the need for workforce relevance.

When we look at essential workers, a lot of those trades never saw a slowdown, he said. They still hired. They still have the need. Automotive trades are always in demand, he added.

Even so, Joness pursuit of a degree at TCAT Nashville would perhaps be a surprise to his high school self. I didnt necessarily know what I wanted to do, said Jones, now 26. My biggest fear was to go to college, put in all that time and effort and then not use my degree.

So, at 18, Jones went to work in warehouses, spending long days loading and unloading heavy boxes from tractor-trailers. But after just a few years, he realized he needed a job that would make him happier, cause fewer injuries and pay him more. Trade school for a career fixing cars seemed like the best route.

Robert Nivyayos priorities became clear a bit earlier in his education, when he realized he didnt like high school. He spent most of his free time watching YouTube videos about fixing up cars before he was even licensed to drive.

Training in auto collision repair made sense for him, he said, because he could earn a credential while doing what he enjoyed, and without spending much time in the traditional classroom. Now 19, Nivyayo looks forward to the anticipated payoff when he gets a job in an auto shop. He can expect to make roughly $40,000 to $60,000 a year, depending on the shop, his instructor said.

Every new day, I just get more motivated, Nivyayo said.

Just a few doors down, Abbey Carlson is in the welding studio, wearing jeans with holes burnt through them and a cap to protect her hair. Shes the only woman in the nighttime welding class.

Carlson, now 24, had initially intended to attend a four-year college, but her plans were derailed by an addiction to alcohol. After dedicating herself to recovery, she decided to pursue a career in the trades.

After researching her options, she concluded welding would be the safest path to take as a young woman while also offering her the highest eventual earning potential. So far, shes enjoying her time at TCAT Nashville.

Finally, I feel like Im going to accomplish something in life, Carlson said.

Laura Monks, president of the Shelbyville branch of TCAT, said one of the reasons TCAT appeals to students is the schools co-op program, which gives students who are nearing graduation the chance to work in their desired field a few days a week while also getting credit toward their diploma.

Brayden Johnson, 20, who is in his fifth trimester studying industrial maintenance automation, has had the chance to work as an electrical maintenance technician in a local factory that makes tubes for toothpaste. Hes working the night shift, which comes with a slight pay bump, and is earning about $26 per hour.

He said he hopes to stay in the job after he finishes at TCAT this spring.

At trade schools like TCAT Nashville, students are drawn to the hands-on design of the courses, Garrett said. You need to get your hands on the equipment," he said of the school's philosophy. "You need to start building stuff, breaking stuff and then learn how to fix that stuff.

The opportunity to get real work experience in TCAT's co-op is an extra perk. The employer reports back to the students instructor so they know where the student is excelling and where they are struggling, so they can work on those weaknesses in class, Garrett said.

Fastest-growing jobs that pay over $100K Fastest-growing jobs that pay over $100K #50. Administrative services managers #49. General and operations managers #48. Facilities managers #47. Makeup artists, theatrical and performance #46. Advertising and promotions managers #45. Atmospheric, earth, marine, and space sciences teachers, postsecondary #44. Human resources managers #43. Education administrators, postsecondary #42. Nurse midwives #41. Training and development managers #40. Public relations managers #39. Construction managers #38. Producers and directors #37. Financial risk specialists #36. Physicists #35. Anthropology and archaeology teachers, postsecondary #34. Petroleum engineers #33. Economics teachers, postsecondary #32. Transportation, storage, and distribution managers #31. Financial and investment analysts #30. Psychiatrists #29. Law teachers, postsecondary #28. Computer systems analysts #27. Optometrists #26. Lawyers #25. Fundraising managers #24. Bioengineers and biomedical engineers #23. Marketing managers #22. Database architects #21. Management analysts #20. Nurse anesthetists #19. Engineering teachers, postsecondary #18. Agents and business managers of artists, performers, and athletes #17. Chemical engineers #16. Biochemists and biophysicists #15. Personal financial advisors #14. Computer and information systems managers #13. Financial managers #12. Medical scientists, except epidemiologists #11. Veterinarians #10. Actuaries #9. Computer and information research scientists #8. Health specialties teachers, postsecondary #7. Software developers #6. Physician assistants #5. Medical and health services managers #4. Information security analysts #3. Athletes and sports competitors #2. Data scientists #1. Nurse practitioners
Russian President Vladimir Putin has visited the Kremlins forces fighting in Ukraine for the second time in two months. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, meanwhile, made his latest trip near the front line Tuesday. The visits  on different days and in different provinces -- stiffened the resolve of soldiers as the war approaches its 14th month and as Kyiv readies a possible counteroffensive. Some of the most significant of the weapons Ukraine wants appeared to have just arrived. Germanys official federal government website on Tuesday listed a Patriot surface-to-air guided missile system as among the military items delivered within the past week to Ukraine. Germanys Patriot appeared to be the first such system to have arrived.
The US Embassy in Moscow has rejected an invitation sent to US Ambassador Lynn Tracy to attend a meeting of the State Duma Commission on Investigation of Foreign Interference in Russias Internal Affairs on 18 April to explain the activities of US bio-labs in Ukraine

The US Embassy in Moscow confirms that we have declined the State Dumas invitation to Ambassador Tracy to attend the meeting of the Russian State Duma Commission, the US Embassy said.

According to the embassy, the United States fully complies with its obligations under the Biological Weapons Convention and does not develop or possess such weapons, and Washington has already fully debunked the allegations against it.

Vasily Piskarev, Chairman of the State Duma Commission on Investigating Foreign Interference in Russias Internal Affairs, commented on the refusal of US Ambassador to Russia Lynn Tracy to take part in the meeting of the Commission :

The United States again, in a boorish manner, refused to explain itself about the activities of the Pentagon military biological laboratories located along the perimeter of Russian borders, which are deadly dangerous for the peoples of Russia and for all mankind.

This once again confirms the validity of the conclusions contained in the report presented as a result of a parliamentary investigation conducted by State Duma deputies and senators of the Russian Federation, and are based on indisputable facts that cannot be refuted. As they say in Russia, the hat on the thief is on fire, and the fact that US Ambassador Lynn Tracy, who was afraid to come to the hearing and answer, sent an empty and defiant note in response to our invitation, exposes the inability and unwillingness of the American side to conduct a normal professional dialogue .

At the same time, I also note that Ms. Lynn Tracy found time to attend the court session in the case of a foreign agent, who was found guilty of treason today. In other words, the United States directly admits to supporting him, and therefore to trying again to continue to interfere in our internal affairs, this time by pressuring justice. Will not work.

And no matter how they dodge in Washington, they will still have to answer for their criminal actions, as well as the results of the activities of biolaboratories, including its possible connection with mass epidemics. For our part, we will continue to work to communicate the results of the parliamentary investigation to other countries of the world through our friendly countries. The leadership of the United States, the Pentagon must answer for the threats that their military biological program poses not only to our country, but to all of humanity.

USA, fear to answer? Dont do the crime

WtR
April 17, 2023

Some unconfirmed sources on Sunday night reported that some massive explosions hit one of the illegal US military bases in the Koniko gas field in Deir ez-Zor.

Some news sources also reported that the forces of the international coalition led by the United States targeted a drone during the series of explosions over Deir ez-Zor.

Attacks on illegal US bases in Syria have intensified in recent months. At the beginning of last month, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that two rockets hit the countrys military base in eastern Syria, and there were no casualties.

Koniko gas field is one of the largest US military bases in Deir ez-Zor in eastern Syria. The base had been targeted by rockets several times before.

Meanwhile, local sources in Syria reported a conflict between American forces and unknown people. It is said that American forces have attacked some positions in Syria. According to a local source, one of the helicopters of the American coalition was damaged. Two people were reportedly killed in the air attack of the US forces on one of the villages in Syria.

Some sources reported that a number of American forces were injured.

MNA/5756917; 5756916
Commentary of the Russian Embassy in the USA

We paid attention to the rabid statements by the American administration about the allegedly politically motivated decision of the Russian court that sentenced V. Kara-Murza to 25 years in prison.

Such statements are an open attempt to influence the independent judicial system of the Russian Federation . I would like to ask what verdict the local Themis would have issued if a US citizen was found guilty of treason, i.e. betrayal of the Motherland? What would be the reaction if an American would go, as if to work, to the parliament of a foreign state with accusations against the leadership of his country and take an active part in the development of illegitimate sanctions?

The behavior of local authorities clearly shows the duplicity of Washingtons policy , which recalls democratic values only when it is expedient.

The selectivity of US actions is so obvious that even the American media are already paying attention to it. We recommend the local advocates of democracy to watch the film Oh Canada announced by the popular #FoxNews presenter T. Carlson , with illustrative examples of human rights violations by one of the main allies of the United States. Judging by the commercial, the documentary gives every reason to criticize  Canadians and apply the notorious restrictions to them.

While appealing to freedom of speech abroad, shameful excesses in America itself are bashfully hushed up . For example, as in the situation with some politicians, who, after the so-called. The capitol storm was literally kicked out of social media under the pretext of incitement to violence.

How can the United States be a judge against the background of increasing police brutality , racial discrimination , hatred on religious and ethnic grounds? Maybe the ruling class should direct their irrepressible energy to resolving the humanitarian crisis on the border with Mexico , as a result of which thousands of immigrants, including children, are being held in inhuman conditions?

 Its time for the Washington elites to stop gross systematic interference in our internal affairs and take care of problems at home.

WtR
Weather Alert

.Near record high temperatures Thursday through Sunday will bring significant streamflow rises, especially for snow covered terrain below about 8000 feet. Rises will likely increase daily through the weekend following a diurnal melt cycle with the highest flows often in the evenings and overnight. ...FLOOD WATCH FOR SNOWMELT REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM THURSDAY AFTERNOON 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, Mono County and Surprise Valley California. In western Nevada, Greater Lake Tahoe Area, Greater Reno-Carson City-Minden Area and Mineral and Southern Lyon Counties. * WHEN...From Thursday afternoon through Monday morning. * IMPACTS...Creeks and streams will be running high and fast. Low-water crossings may be flooded. Minor mainstem flooding is currently forecast along the Forks of the Carson River beginning late Friday. The Susan and Walker Rivers will also need to be closely monitored as flooding 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. &&
This June 20, 2019 photo shows Chinese President Xi Jinping, left, and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un waving from an open top limousine as they travel along a street in Pyongyang, North Korea. Xinhua-Yonhap



Chinese President Xi Jinping has sent a letter to North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, expressing his willingness to strengthen strategic communication with North Korea, Pyongyang's state media reported Tuesday.



Xi expressed his "heartfelt" thanks to the North's leader in a reply sent on April 12 to Kim's earlier message congratulating Xi's election as the Chinese president for a third term, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).



Xi said China and the North have maintained and developed their traditional friendly relations, even though international and regional security situations are changing "seriously and in a complicated way."



The Chinese leader expressed his willingness to elevate the bilateral ties to a higher level by "strengthening the strategic communication and jointly guiding" the development of the Beijing-Pyongyang relations with the North's leader, the KCNA said in an English-language dispatch.



Kim sent a letter expressing his "warmest congratulations" to Xi on March 10, the day when he was formally appointed as the Chinese leader for a third five-year term.



Prior to last week's letter, Xi delivered a similar message thanking the North's leader earlier this month via China's new ambassador to North Korea, Wang Yajun.



North Korea has been strengthening its ties with China, the North's traditional ally and economic benefactor, amid global sanctions on its nuclear and missile programs, and stalled denuclearization talks with the United States. (Yonhap)


Weather Alert

.Near record high temperatures Thursday through Sunday will bring significant streamflow rises, especially for snow covered terrain below about 8000 feet. Rises will likely increase daily through the weekend following a diurnal melt cycle with the highest flows often in the evenings and overnight. ...FLOOD WATCH FOR SNOWMELT IN EFFECT FROM THURSDAY AFTERNOON THROUGH MONDAY MORNING... * WHAT...Flooding caused by snowmelt is possible. * WHERE...Portions of California and western Nevada, including the following areas, in California, Greater Lake Tahoe Area, Lassen-Eastern Plumas-Eastern Sierra Counties, Mono County and Surprise Valley California. In western Nevada, Greater Lake Tahoe Area, Greater Reno-Carson City-Minden Area and Mineral and Southern Lyon Counties. * WHEN...From Thursday afternoon through Monday morning. * IMPACTS...Creeks and streams will be running high and fast. Low-water crossings may be flooded. Minor mainstem flooding is currently forecast along the Forks of the Carson River beginning late Friday. The Susan and Walker Rivers will also need to be closely monitored as flooding 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. &&
Long before cannabis was legalized for recreational use in California, intrepid Bay Area chefs were proving that artisanal food and weed make the perfect pair. For almost a decade now, cannabis-infused dinner parties, brunches, and other edible events have popped up on the reg.

While the pandemic forced some of those fledgling tastemakers out of business, culinary cannabis events are once again on the rise from Napa to San Francisco and Oakland. From the travel-centric Cannescape to the womens-only club Big Bad Queens, heres where to get a seat at the weed-friendly table.

Big Bad Wolf + Big Bad Queens (Courtesy of @bigbadwolfsf) Kick-ass, cannabis-consuming woman, this ones for you. Big Bad Queens developed out of Big Bad Wolf, the beloved herb-infused pop-up dinners chef and Food Network cannabis consultant Haejin Chun has been hosting since 2016. Those events, which bring together Bay Area connoisseurs of all genders for great weed and even better food (think pork belly and tomato kimchi, oxtail kimchi dumplings, and miso cheesecake) have become a springboard for something greater: a members-only space created by women for women that revolves not just around cannabis but the power of collaboration. Join the club for just $30 a year to get in on their panels, smoke sessions, mixers, and co-working luncheonsplus first access to Chuns famously fabulous dinner parties. // Sign up at bbwsfmembership.splashthat.com .

Cannescape (Courtesy of @wecannescape) Cannescape, a collaboration between Solomon Johnson, Chopped 420 champ and co-owner of Oaklands The Bussdown, and local journalist Chelsea Davis, combines culinary cannabis excellence with Northern Californias best getaways. At their events, Johnsons weed-infused feasts are just the start. Overnight experiences also include CBD happy hours, expert panels, and a CBD breakfast. For its 2023 4/20 party, Cannescape takes over Calisotgas Dr. Wilkinsons Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs for a two-day event with a five-course dinner at its center. The meal will feature dishes like ubora tart with crab and king salmon with seared brassicas. Tickets for some of the festivities are still available, but definitely keep an eye on their Instagram for their next brilliant showing. // cannescape.com

Cannaisseur (Courtesy of @herbweedandfire) Chef Coreen Carroll, author of Edibles: Small Bites for the Modern Cannabis Kitchen and winner of Netflixs Cooked With Cannabis, has been hosting curated events with her cannabis entrepreneur husband Ryan Bush since 2015. With Cannaisseur, the pair does everything from communal meals to educational opportunities in both public and private formats. Check out their four-course seasonal brunches complete with a mimosa bar and dishes infused with flower, extracts and leaves, or a workshop pairing an edible education with curated tastings. If youre planning a private event, theyll set you up with a tailored menu and infused hors doeuvres based on rotating themes. // For more info, go to cannaisseurseries.com.




This Oct. 5, 2022 file photo shows the Kaesong Industrial Complex, a joint industrial park in the North's border city of Kaesong. Yonhap



South Korea's unification ministry warned North Korea again Tuesday against its unauthorized operation of a now-shuttered joint industrial park in the North, saying it will take necessary measures even if it takes time.



The ministry's call came amid a media report that the North has resumed the operation of some 30 factories at the Kaesong Industrial Complex in the North's namesake border city without permit.



"It is true that more North Korean workers are commuting, compared with the past," a ministry official told reporters on condition of anonymity, without elaborating on the details.



The official said the government is "thoroughly" reviewing legal actions against the North's infringement on South Korean companies' property rights.



"Even if it takes time, the government will hold the North accountable for (its unlawful) act and demand necessary compensation," he added.



Last week, Unification Minister Kwon Young-se voiced "strong" regret over the North's unlawful use of South Korean assets left behind in the factory zone, and vowed to take "all possible measures" to hold the secretive regime accountable.



Signs of the North's unauthorized operation of the industrial complex have continued to be detected.



South Korean commuter buses used to transport the North's workers to the factory zone before its 2016 closure were seen operating in the streets of Pyongyang and Kaesong in the latest photos and video footage carried by the North's state media.



South Korea shut down the joint industrial park, once a symbol of inter-Korean reconciliation, in February 2016 in response to North Korea's nuclear and long-range missile tests. (Yonhap)


Frank Willis, owner of Franks Famous Chicken & Waffles. (Roberto E. Rosales/Journal)

Whats your favorite way to eat chicken? Fried? Grilled? Baked? Chickens versatility means it never gets old.

Popular fried chicken chain Raising Canes is planning two locations in Albuquerque in May, to their fans delight.

But Albuquerque foodies have plenty of local chicken-forward dining options available right now.

Heres a list of a few restaurants across the city that offer unique and delicious takes on fried and grilled chicken favorites:

A sandwich at Happy Chickenzz. (Richard S. Dargan/For the Journal )

Chef Tony Chaleunphonh reaches back to his Laos roots for his specialty chicken options down at El Vado Motel near Old Town.

Happy Chickenzz menu features the Laos-ville Hot, Chef Tonys take on Nashville hot chicken, which comes with a level-three spice warning.

Location and hours:

2500 Central SW at El Vado Motel

Monday-Wednesday: Closed

Thursday: 11:30 a.m.6 p.m.

Friday and Saturday: 11:30 a.m.7 p.m.

Sunday: 11:30 a.m.4 p.m.

A chicken sandwich at KuKri. (Richard S. Dargan/For the Journal)

Hot means hot. Thats the slogan at KuKri, which celebrated its one-year anniversary in January.

The featured 100% halal hand-breaded chicken tenders and sandwiches allow visitors to choose their spice level starting at mild and vamping up to insane hot.

Locations and hours:

505 Central NW, inside 505 Central Food Hall

Sunday through Wednesday: 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

Thursday through Saturday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

3700 Ellison NW, inside The Salt Yard

Closed Monday and Tuesday: Closed

Wednesday and Thursday: 3 p.m.10 p.m.

Friday: 3 p.m.2 a.m.

Saturday: 11 a.m.2 a.m.

Sunday: 11 a.m.10 p.m.

Chicken meals from Sticky Rice in Albuquerque on Wednesday, Feb. 22, 2023. (Elizabeth Tucker/ Albuquerque Journal)

Sticky Rice brings breaks down chicken into its simplest form  Lao-style grilled and served with a side of sticky rice, accented with a delicious chile sauce for dipping. The restaurant only deals in carry-out food, and often sells out before closing time, so plan to visit earlier to beat the rush.

Location and hours:

7600 Jefferson NE

Saturday-Monday: Closed

Tuesday-Friday: 10:00 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Chicken and waffles from Franks Famous Chicken and Waffles. (Jim Thompson/Journal)

Featured on Guy Fieris Diners, Drive-ins and Dives, Franks Famous Chicken and Waffles offers an eclectic assortment of chicken options.

Of course, chicken and waffles is top on the menu, but Franks also serves other soul food classics like sweet tea, smoked turkey greens, shrimp and grits, peach cobblers for dessert, poboys, chile cheese fries, chicken tenders and wings. The location is also a venue for live music.

Location and hours:

400 Washington SE

Monday: Closed

Tuesday-Wednesday: 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

Thursday-Saturday: 11 a.m.-8 p.m

Sunday: 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

A Stripes Burrito Co. in Albuquerque. (Journal file)

Even though burritos are in the name, this eatery is known for its fried chicken game.

Stripes features a buttermilk fried chicken sandwich, doused with house green chile ranch, and a chicken finger basket combo, which comes with coleslaw, fries and a drink.

The restaurant donates a portion of its net proceeds to the Veterans Affairs Hospital.

Locations and hours:

2204 Menaul NE

5211 Gibson SE

801 Juan Tabo NE

2505 Wyoming NE

6121 Lomas NE

2510 Southern NE in Rio Rancho

Daily: 5:30 a.m.-8 p.m.

Serving the Albuquerque area since 1972, the restaurant prides itself on its fried and BBQ chicken options.

Locations and hours:

10101 Central NE

Drive-thru

Monday-Friday: 6 a.m.-10 p.m.

Saturday: 6:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

Sunday: 7 a.m.-8 p.m.

Dine in

Daily 7:30 a.m.-8 p.m.

1830 Lomas NE

Drive-thru and dine in

Monday-Friday: 6 a.m.-10 p.m.

Saturday: 6 a.m.-8 p.m.

Sunday: 7 a.m.-8 p.m.

5231 Central NW

Drive-thru only

Monday-Saturday: 6 a.m.-9 p.m.

Sunday: 7 a.m.-9 p.m.

3720 Juan Tabo NE

Drive-thru and dine in

Monday-Saturday: 6 a.m.-8 p.m.

Sunday: 7 a.m.-8 p.m.

More restaurant news and reviews
SANTA FE  The general counsel for the State Ethics Commission has found probable cause to support allegations that State Treasurer Laura Montoya violated New Mexicos campaign finance and financial disclosure laws while running for office.

The findings  outlined in newly disclosed ethics documents  arent a final determination.

But they allow the case to proceed to a public hearing before retired U.S. Magistrate Judge Alan C. Torgerson, assigned to the case as a hearing officer.

The allegations center on whether Montoya failed to properly disclose the source of $10,000 in contributions and incorrectly filled out paperwork disclosing her personal finances.

The complaint is part of an ongoing dispute between Montoya and her predecessor, Tim Eichenberg, who backed a rival candidate in the Democratic primary last year and filed the ethics allegations against Montoya.

Kenneth Stalter, Montoyas attorney, contested the ethics allegations in a formal response to Eichenbergs complaint, describing it as frivolous and unsubstantiated.

Treasurer Montoya looks forward to presenting the facts in a public forum to Judge Torgerson, Stalter said Monday in a statement to the Journal.

Preparation for a hearing comes after Walker Boyd, general counsel for the ethics commission, issued an 18-page report outlining his investigation into the allegations against Montoya.

He found probable cause to conclude Montoya violated the state campaign finance law by failing to disclose the source of $10,000 in contributions made to her campaign.

In a campaign finance filing, Montoya reported the donations had come from Adelante Sandoval, a political action committee. But the money originated elsewhere  from two companies that contributed to the PAC with the understanding that the money would go to Montoyas campaign, according to ethics documents.

At issue are a pair of $5,000 checks from the companies  SPR LLCs, which lease buildings to an assisted living provider  that were delivered to the PAC, with instructions to earmark the money for Montoya, according to ethics documents.

Boyd said it wasnt clear why the money was donated to the PAC rather than Montoyas campaign directly. But in any case, he said, theres sufficient evidence to conclude Montoya knew the donations were earmarked for her from the SPR LLCs and should have been reported that way.

The donations, Boyd said, came at a critical time  in September 2021, the month before a key fundraising deadline.

Boyd also found that Montoya incorrectly filled out paperwork disclosing her personal finances.

Montoya had described herself in a financial disclosure statement as self-employed, which Eichenberg said was false. Boyd found that self-employment is not a valid disclosure of employment under the Financial Disclosure Act.

The complaint is now set to advance to Torgerson, the retired judge.

If the allegations are proven, Torgerson could impose $4,000 in civil penalties and require Montoyas campaign to return the $10,000 in donations, according to ethics documents.

Eichenberg himself faced an ethics complaint as he and Montoya sparred throughout the 2022 campaign. He agreed last year to pay a $250 civil penalty for using the official seal of his office in a communication supporting one of Montoyas opponents.

But the ethics complaint now advancing focuses on Montoya.

A Democrat and former Sandoval County treasurer, Montoya defeated Heather Benavidez, chief of staff to then-Treasurer Eichenberg, in the primary election and Republican Harry Montoya, no relation, in the general election.

The treasurer leads the office that serves as a sort of state bank, managing and investing the cash used to operate state government. The treasurer also runs an investment pool for local governments and serves on key state boards, including the State Investment Council.
The legal battle over New Mexicos abortion landscape took a new twist Monday, as a small southeastern New Mexico city filed a lawsuit challenging top state Democrats efforts to block local anti-abortion ordinances from being enforced.

Specifically, the lawsuit filed by the city of Eunice against Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham and Attorney General Raul Torrez claims a federal law enacted in the 1870s trumps a new state law  set to take effect in June  that aims to prohibit jurisdictions from restricting access to reproductive health care, including abortion.

The lawsuit was filed Monday in state district court in Lea County, but local officials and anti-abortion advocates held a news conference in Washington, D.C. to announce its filing.

Sen. David Gallegos, R-Eunice, who attended the news conference, said the event was held in Washington, D.C. in large part because supporters of the suit anticipate it could eventually be taken up by the U.S. Supreme Court  perhaps in conjunction with similar court cases from around the nation.

Were hoping this will help fuel the fire to get this resolved, Gallegos told the Journal.

The new lawsuit comes after Torrez, a former Bernalillo County prosecutor who took office in January, launched a legal effort of his own to bar anti-abortion ordinances passed in several eastern New Mexico cities and counties.

It also comes just a month or so after Lujan Grisham signed off on the second of two abortion-related measures approved by lawmakers during this years 60-day session.

One of those new laws bans New Mexico cities, counties and other government bodies from restricting access to abortions or gender-affirming health care, while the other seeks to shield doctors and nurses who perform such procedures from legal liability.

During a bill-signing ceremony this month for one of the new abortion laws, Lujan Grisham expressed optimism the measures would be upheld if targeted in court.

We feel very confident the bills weve signed into law will withstand any legal challenges in the state, Lujan Grisham said at the time.

While New Mexico does not currently have any statewide restrictions on abortion, the new bills have not stopped local-level attempts to limit access to abortion.

More than 300 miles away from Eunice, the city of Edgewood is considering passing its own ordinance expressing support for the federal Comstock Act.

The Comstock Act, passed in 1873, prohibits sending obscene material through the mail  specifically anything that is designed, adapted, or intended for producing abortion.

In December, the Department of Justice issued an opinion for the U.S. Postal service stating that the law does not prohibit sending medication intended to induce an abortion through the mail as long as the sender is not intending that it will be used unlawfully.

But a Texas judge this month said he would suspend a federal government agencys approval of a medication abortion pill called mifepristone, in a ruling that is now being considered by the U.S. Supreme Court.

AG files suit

New Mexico ordinances that supporters have called de facto abortion bans are already the subject of a lawsuit  this one filed by Torrez.

In January, Torrez filed an emergency petition asking the state Supreme Court to block ordinances that were passed in Lea and Roosevelt Counties and the cities of Clovis and Hobbs. Eunice, a 3,000-person city on the Texas border, was not included in the suit because it passed its ordinance on the same day that the Torrez filed his petition.

In late March, the Supreme Court issued an opinion temporarily blocking the enforcement of the ordinances while it considers the issue. The court also asked the parties to file responses specifically addressing the implications of House Bill 7. Those are due Thursday.

AGs office spokeswoman Lauren Rodriguez said the Supreme Court order only applies to the four jurisdictions that were named in the petition.

So while it does not apply to Eunice, Rodriguez said in a statement that the AG is prepared to take formal legal action to prevent any jurisdiction from adopting similar ordinances once the outstanding legal questions have been resolved by the New Mexico Supreme Court.

She also said the states top prosecutor is prepared to defend the new state law once it takes effect June 16, while adding a state Supreme Court ruling on the issue could provide much-needed guidance.

As for the suit Eunice filed against the AG, Rodriguez pointed out that it was written by the same Texas lawyer involved in the other ordinances and it raises the same arguments in support of them.

As a result, the Supreme Court is better situated to address these issues in the first instance, and the Attorney Generals Office will be seeking a stay of the district court action and will continue to fight to protect reproductive freedom in New Mexico, she said.

Backers viewpoint

Backers of the local anti-abortion ordinances have a quite different legal view.

Albuquerque attorney Michael Seibel, who is representing Eunice along with Tommy Parker from Hobbs and Jonathan Mitchell from Texas, said they are essentially arguing the Comstock Laws are the supreme laws of the land and preempt any state laws.

The suit also asks the judge to declare that federal law outlaw all shipment and receipt of abortion pills and abortion-related paraphernalia throughout the United States, regardless of whether a customer could legally use them where they reside.

During Mondays news conference, Eunice Mayor Billy Hobbs said that city councilors voted unanimously to file the lawsuit, even though its abortion ordinance was not among those targeted by the Attorney Generals office.

In addition, city councilwoman Erica Jones said abortion rights advocates who were considering building a new clinic in Eunice were dissuaded by the pervasive opposition to abortion in the community.

What New Mexicans need is not more abortion clinics, but more hospitals and a better infrastructure for our health care needs, Jones said.

Commissioners to vote

Edgewood, a town of about 6,000 in the far southwestern corner of Santa Fe County, is poised to vote on its own ordinance regarding operations by abortion providers soon.

The town will hold a public hearing on April 25.

The ordinance allows anyone to sue another person, with some exceptions, who violates the Comstock Act by using the mail to receive anything used in abortion care  including equipment and medication. It allows statutory damages not less than $100,000 as well as costs and attorneys fees.

Commissioner Sterling Donner, who introduced the ordinance, said that he did so because he was hearing from his constituents  through calls, emails, and conversations about town  that it was something they wanted him to do.

They saw what was going on in other states and other municipalities and they asked for something similar, Donner said.

He said he didnt think that House Bill 7 should affect the town.

Its not banning abortions in the town at all, Donner said. This is just following federal statutes on the equipment and medications coming in. It cant come from out of state.

Mayor Audrey Jaramillo said she is pro-life but still absorbing information and opinions before deciding which way she will vote.

I am evaluating many principles and issues such as public service and input, morality, legalities, and options, she said in an emailed statement.
Prosecutors opened their case against the alleged killer of Jacqueline Vigil by playing a recording of her desperate and tearful husband calling 911 the morning of his wifes death in 2019.

The dramatic 911 call was played during opening statements Tuesday in the trial of Luis Talamantes-Romero, 35, who is charged with first-degree murder in Vigils shooting death.

I dont think shes breathing, Sam Vigil told a 911 dispatcher. Shes not moving at all.

Vigil said he saw a bullet hole in the drivers side window and his wifes body slumped in the drivers seat. Why would somebody do that?

Sam Vigil can be heard weeping in the recording as he attempts to enter his wifes 2005 Cadillac to reach the woman slumped in the drivers seat. I cant find the keys to the car.

Sam Vigil also told the dispatcher he saw a brown Jeep Cherokee back out of his driveway and speed out of the Vigils cul-de-sac at Corte de Loma NW, near Unser and Ladera.

Looking back, I dont see how I even made that call, Sam Vigil told the 2nd Judicial District Court jury on Tuesday when he was called as the first witness for the prosecution. I was devastated. Thats the most horrific thing that could happen to any person.

Jacqueline Vigil, the mother of two State Police officers, was shot once in the head about 5 a.m. Nov. 19, 2019, as she attempted to back out of her driveway on her way to the gym. The case gained national attention when Sam Vigil and his sons attended a news conference at the White House, where then-President Donald Trump announced the case would be included in the federal crime fighting initiative, Operation Legend.

Assistant Attorney General John Duran told jurors in his opening statements that a shell casing found in the Vigils driveway links Talamantes-Romero to the killing.

A second shell casing fired from the same .40-caliber handgun was found in the dirt beside a Jeep Cherokee police found at the Barelas home of Talamante-Romeros sister.

Duran told jurors that Talamantes-Romero was driving the Jeep Cherokee as he and a second man were driving around the West Side burglarizing cars, culminating in Vigils killing.

Duran alleged Talamantes-Romero and a second man prowled the area in the predawn hours that morning looking for vehicles to burglarize when they saw Vigil emerging from her West Side home.

They were joy riding, Duran told jurors during his opening statements. They were screwing around, up to no good.

Talamantes-Romeros attorney, Kathleen Rhinehart, told jurors that Albuquerque police detectives disregarded information that pointed to two other potential suspects in Vigils killing.

The investigation became laser focused on Talamantes-Romero, Rhinehart said in her opening statements. There were other investigations in his case that were never followed through.

Talamantes-Romero also is charged with two counts of aggravated burglary, conspiracy, larceny and other charges in connection with what prosecutors describe as an hours-long crime spree that morning.

Witness testifies

Jurors also heard testimony Monday from Isaac Ramirez  the man who said he rode in the passenger seat of the Jeep and witnessed Vigils killing.

The pair became lost in the residential streets and happened to pulled into the Vigils cul-de-sac where they saw Jacqueline Vigil warming up her car, Ramirez told jurors.

Talamantes-Romero told me he wanted to rob her, said Ramirez, who is referred to in court records as Ramirez-Soto. He wanted me to take the Jeep because he was going to take the womans car.

Ramirez said he balked at the idea of robbing Vigil. I refused, he said. I didnt know how to drive and I didnt want to rob a woman. I told him not to do it.

But Talemantes-Romero was determined to rob the woman and threatened Ramirez if he tried to interfere. Talamantes-Romero loaded a round into his .40-caliber handgun, pointed it at Ramirez and said, Dont tell me what to do, Ramirez testified.

Talamantes-Romero pulled the Jeep up directly behind Vigils car, blocking her in the driveway, Ramirez told jurors. Talamantes-Ramero then approched Vigils drivers side window holding his handgun, he said.

I hear a honk and then I hear a gunshot, Ramirez said.

Moments later, Sam Vigil emerged from his house. Ramirez said he shouted at Vigil to go back in the house to prevent him from being hurt.

The two backed the Jeep out of the driveway and sped out of the cul-de-sac. They drove to a remote site on the West Site out in the middle of nowhere, Ramirez said.

During cross-examination by Rhinehart, Ramirez acknowledged that he was required to testify in Talamantes-Romeros trial under the terms of his November 2020 plea agreement.

Ramirez pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit aggravated burglary for his role in Vigils killing. He also pleaded guilty to attempt to commit aggravated burglary and larceny for other crimes he committed in the hours before the killing.

Ramirez faces up to seven years in prison. His sentencing hearing was deferred until after the trial.

The investigation

About a week after the killing, Elizabeth Talamantes, the sister of Talamantes-Romero, told detectives she owned the Jeep, which officers found next to her apartment.

A second break came in January 2020 when a woman told police Talamantes-Romero, whom she knew as Pelon, came to her apartment the night of the shooting and said he had shot a woman in the head, according to an arrest affidavit filed in Metropolitan Court.

The woman also said Talamantes-Romeros sister and another woman had driven him to San Antonio, Texas. Less than two weeks later, Talamantes-Romero was arrested there on immigration violations.

Read more about the case: Trial, jury selection to begin for Luis Talamantes-Romero who was charged with first-degree murder in killing of Jacqueline Vigil

Alleged shooter in womans death is indicted by a grand jury

Murder suspects immigration hearing files may be sealed, US judge says

Feds ID suspect in womans November death

An American Dream turned nightmare
Penny Pizarro loved all things that sparkle. And everything, down to her personality, needed to.

An avid singer and makeup artist, the 10-year-old Girl Scout loved to dress in tutus and put on mini pop concerts for her family and friends. When it was hot out, her go-to solutions were to cool off in some water or have some chocolate ice cream.

The morning of March 27  the first day back from spring break  Penny and her father, David Pizarro, were on their way to school. David was planning on dropping Penny off before heading to work.

But as they approached the area near San Pedro and Bell SE in Albuquerque, police say, they were T-boned by a man whod stolen a state-owned SUV that was left running at the state fairgrounds.

Both were rushed to the hospital with life-threatening injuries. On Sunday  weeks after the crash  Penny died from her injuries.

Penny fought bravely and with a strength that far surpassed her size and age, but ultimately, Pennys body and mind could not reconcile the injuries she sustained, organizer Jennifer Pagan said in a GoFundMe update Tuesday.

The man accused of causing the crash, 37-year-old John Bearden Jr., told police hed relapsed on methamphetamine, and that hed gotten disoriented after stealing the SUV. He said he sped through neighborhoods before crashing into the father and daughter.

Bearden was originally charged with two counts of great bodily harm by vehicle as well as auto theft and leaving the scene of an accident in connection with the crash, but his charges will be amended to include vehicular homicide, a spokeswoman for the 2nd Judicial District Attorneys Office said. Bearden was ordered to be held in jail until trial last Friday.

Car left unlocked

Contrary to what Bearden told police, Expo New Mexico media manager Oona Gonzales said the SUV taken from the fairgrounds wasnt left running. It was, however, left unlocked  and apparently with the keys inside.

That is a policy that we do not leave keys in vehicles when  getting out, she said. This particular employee made a mistake  She wasnt intending for anything like this (to happen)  But it was  yeah, it was an oversight.

Gonzales said the employee, a rover who works in the security department, got out of the vehicle to open a door and was about 15 feet away. Gonzales claimed Bearden was trespassing and had watched the employee for some time before making his move.

While she declined to identify the employee or discuss whether shes been disciplined, Gonzales said shes still employed by Expo.

Our prayers are definitely with that family. Its very difficult, Gonzales said. She is devastated.

A force to all who knew her

Pennys charisma had an influence on everyone she met.

Staff at The International School at Mesa del Sol commonly got fist bumps from Penny. She got her entire fourth grade class obsessed with Boba Tea, and she loved to dole out hugs to her classmates and fellow Girl Scouts.

Penny was a force to all who knew her, Pagan wrote. She always ensured those around her never felt alone or excluded.  She was sensitive to the needs of others while also having no problem voicing her opinions if she didnt agree with you.

Since the crash, Pennys classmates worried about her, and had been working on a fundraiser to help her, school librarian Desiree Vargas said. A flyer for the event, decorated with pictures of cookies, sparkly pink heart emojis and a puppy sipping what appeared to be Boba Tea, promoted the fundraiser scheduled for 3:45-4:30 p.m. April 28.

But Tuesday, school leaders had to go classroom to classroom, breaking the news of Pennys death to students.

Its sunny, but an atmosphere of gloomy, Vargas said, adding later in a text message that students are shocked and sad.

A celebration of life service for Penny will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday at Trujillo Funeral Home at 110 Alvarado SE, with the burial to take place at 2 p.m. at Mt. Calvary Cemetery at 1900 Edith NE. Pagan asked that instead of wearing dark colors, people wear pink and all things that sparkle to honor Penny.

We cant imagine she would have wanted it any other way, Pagan wrote.

Journal staff writer Olivier Uyttebrouck contributed to this report.
Cover Images/Vince Flores Celebrity

The 'Call Me by Your Name' actor has been accused of rape by a woman, as well as of harboring 'abusive' bondage fantasies and cannibalistic fetishes by other women.

Apr 18, 2023

AceShowbiz - Armie Hammer has had a set of sexual assault allegations against him put "under review" by the district attorney. The "Call Me by Your Name" actor, who has been fighting to claw back his Hollywood career after a string of his messages featuring extreme sexual fantasies emerged, was under investigation for nine months in 2021 after being accused of raping a woman in Los Angeles in 2017. Still, no charges were filed against him.

A Los Angeles Police Department spokesperson has now confirmed that it has handed over its investigation into sexual assault allegations against the embattled 36-year-old to the district attorney. The force's communications director Tiffiny Blacknell told CNN, "I can confirm that the LAPD has presented a case regarding Armie Hammer to the LADA (Los Angeles District Attorney's Office.) The matter is currently under review."

The L.A. Times reported Armie's attorney Andrew Brettler did not comment on the case when he was reached by the newspaper. It added, "Blacknell did not disclose additional information about the case nor identify the complainant or complainants." While the details of the investigation remain unclear, a woman only identified as Effie accused "The Social Network" star Armie of rape during a March 2021 press conference with attorney Gloria Allred at her side.

Effie claimed Armie "violently" raped her in 2017 while they were secretly having an affair, as the actor would have been married to his now-estranged wife, Elizabeth Chambers, at the time of the alleged attack. She also accused him of abusing her "mentally, emotionally and sexually" during their apparent four-year relationship.

Armie has never been charged with a crime and denied the claims, slamming them as "outrageous." His attorney previously told Page Six, "From day one, Mr Hammer has maintained that all of his interactions with (Effie) - and every other sexual partner of his for that matter - have been completely consensual, discussed and agreed upon in advance, and mutually participatory."

"(Effie's) attention seeking and ill-advised legal bid will only make it more difficult for real victims of sexual violence to get the justice they deserve," Armie's attorney continued slamming Effie.

Other women have accused the actor of harboring "abusive" bondage fantasies and cannibalistic fetishes, allegations Armie has said drive him to wish he was dead. The actor, who has 8-year-old daughter Harper and 6-year-old son Ford with his former wife, told AirMail about the impact of the claims on his mental health, "I just walked out into the ocean and swam out as far as I could and hoped that either I drowned, or was hit by a boat, or eaten by a shark."

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The actor, who played chief video game writer C. W. Longbottom on 'Mythic Quest' before his sudden departure in April 2022, was reportedly fired after 'at least two concerns were raised' about his behavior.

Apr 18, 2023

AceShowbiz - F. Murray Abraham was reportedly fired from an Apple TV+ series over two complaints of sexual misconduct. The Oscar-winner, 83, famed for his recent role on "The White Lotus", had been playing chief video game writer C. W. Longbottom on "Mythic Quest" but unexpectedly quit in April 2022 between its second and third seasons.

Rolling Stone reported "at least two concerns were raised" about Abraham's behavior, leading to his sacking. It said, "The first incident resulted in Abraham being given a warning and told to keep away from some of the show's actresses, according to a production source. After a second incident was brought to creator and star Rob McElhenney's attention, Rolling Stone understands that Abraham was let go from the show."

Show producer Lionsgate said in a statement to the magazine, "We take allegations of misconduct seriously and investigate them thoroughly. As a matter of corporate policy, we do not discuss our personnel actions."

Rolling Stone added dad-of-two Abraham, whose wife Kate Hannan died last year after a long battle with multiple sclerosis, did not return requests for comment. It said, "Nor did McElhenney, the show's other creators, and lead actresses."

It's unclear who apparently made the allegations against the star. Abraham, born Murray Abraham, was killed off from "Mythic Quest" in the premiere of season three, aired in November 2022, with his character driving off a cliff into the Grand Canyon in a Thunderbird after he was diagnosed with a terminal illness.

Rob, 46, told Variety around the time the actor's exit from the show was revealed, "It's a bummer to not have Murray in this season. But we recognize that C W is a beloved character and obviously a huge part of the show. So, we made sure that we have a really fitting tribute to him. We definitely address it in a big way."

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The former 'Saturday Night Live' star claims the late 'Rust' cinematographer's parents and sister seek to 'obtain compensation' despite being 'physically, financially and emotionally' estranged from her for years before her death.

Apr 18, 2023

AceShowbiz - Alec Baldwin wants a "misguided" lawsuit filed against him by Halyna Hutchins' parents and sister to be dismissed. The 64-year-old actor, who is facing involuntary manslaughter charges over the death of the cinematographer after she was fatally shot on the set of "Rust" in October 2021, argued Olga Solovey, Anatolii Androsovych and Svetlana Zemko only filed their suit to "obtain compensation" despite being "physically, financially and emotionally" estranged from their late relative "for years" before her death.

Court documents obtained by NBC News stated, "The loss of a daughter and sister is undoubtedly painful in any circumstance. Yet Plaintiffs-who had been distanced from Halyna physically, financially, and emotionally for years before her death-have no viable cause of action against Defendants. This action is especially misguided."

Alec, who has denied any wrongdoing, previously agreed a settlement with Halyna's widower, Matthew Hutchins, their son and estate, and said he believed resolving that court case "should have been the end of the matter." The documents added, "But it is not. The Court should dismiss Plaintiffs' Complaint with prejudice."

The lawsuit was filed in February and as well as Alec, "Rust" armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, assistant director David Halls and Rust Movie Productions, LLC. are listed as defendants.

Gloria Allred, who is representing the family in the suit, hit out at the "30 Rock" star and said he is "once again attempting to avoid responsibility." The lawyer added in a statement, "It is abundantly clear under New Mexico law , which will be applied in the California court that he is responsible for all of the harm he did to the entirety of Halyna Hutchins' family. We are here to make sure that he is held accountable for his actions."

Like Alec, Hannah has also been charged with involuntary manslaughter, while David agreed to plead no contest to negligent use of a deadly weapon.

The next hearing in the case is scheduled for June 9.

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An official from the National Police Agency gives a press briefing at the agency's headquarters in Seoul, Tuesday. Yonhap



By Ko Dong-hwan



The National Police Agency (NPA) said on Tuesday it has confirmed North Korean hacking group "Lazarus" has so far attacked over 200 computers in 61 agencies here.



At a press conference at its headquarters in Seoul, the NPA said 207 computers at eight news outlets and 53 other agencies have been hacked by the group.



The South Korean police discovered that North Koreans hackers had targeted a vulnerability in a certain personal authentication software with security firewalls, which is widely used in South Korea to access personal banking and governmental websites containing personal data.



Hackers exploited the vulnerability to install the software which automatically planted the virus in the computers, according to the police, in what it refers to as a "watering hole" attack.



There are approximately 10 million computers in South Korea that have the same software installed, the authority said Tuesday.



The hackers had a predetermined plot from 2021 to infiltrate INISAFE, a South Korean personal authentication software developer, by studying the software's weaknesses and to develop their own malware, the police said.



The NPA said they had managed to discover signs of Lazarus' activities on South Korean networks and preemptively blocked their further access in cooperation with other agencies.



The authority reminded the public to update their computer cybersecurity software as North Korean hackers continue advancing their ingenuity.



Lazarus was accused by the U.S. government of having stolen an astronomical amount of cyber currency through an online game. The U.S. Department of Treasury said on April 6 that the hackers stole $620 million from the non-fungible token-based online game, Axie Infinity, in one of the largest cyber theft cases of 2022.



Last February, the South Korean government placed its first independent sanctions on North Korea in the area of illicit cyber activities. Four North Korean hackers and seven groups, including Lazarus, were accused of having funneled funds to Pyongyang for the Kim Jong-un regime's weapons programs.



The same day, the U.S. National Intelligence Service, the U.S. National Security Agency and the FBI issued a joint security advisory against North Korea's cybercrimes, saying hackers are trying to obtain cryptocurrency through malware attacks using fake domains.


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According to a new report, 'We Need to Talk About Kanye' promises to bring 'revelation" of unknown context surrounding the 'Donda' rapper's recent controversies.

Apr 19, 2023

AceShowbiz - "We Need to Talk About Kanye", the upcoming BBC documentary on Kanye West, is set to delve into the Chicago rapper's recent antics and behavior. According to a new report, the documentary promises to bring "revelation" of unknown context surrounding his recent controversies.

The movie's producer Jeremy Lee recently shared in an interview with Variety that in addition to Yes antisemitic tirades and 2024 presidential election, the documentary will divulge much more information. Underpinned with world-class journalism and unique access to members of Yes inner circle, this is a revelation-driven film which sheds new light on recent events, Jeremy said.

Jeremy confirmed that Kanye West knows of the documentary, though he will not be involved in any capacity. Yes recent behavior has prompted both condemnation and a re-evaluation of his place in popular culture. With recent events as a starting point, the documentary and accompanying eight-part podcast series [The Kanye Story] explore Yes two decades in the public eye amid a rumored YE2024 election campaign," he added.

The Kanye Story will further explore Kanye Wests career with help from top music industry executives. Investigative journalist Mobeen Azhar, who also explored Britney Spears conservatorship in the film "The Battle For Britney", helmed the BBC documentary.

Variety went on to report that BBC sold the doc to various countries after ordering it in February. Networks in Finland, Belgium, Australia, Sweden, Norway and Denmark already secured rights to the project.

More recently, it was reported that Ye decided to cancel his plans for the 2024 presidential run. "Right now, I am living my life - like I'm concentrating on the school, The Donda Academy, and my new wife, and my kids, and that's it," the Chicago star allegedly told Adam Camacho, a documentary producer hired by Ye's company to make a film in November 2022. "I just want to be left alone."

An anonymous employee of the "Jesus Is King" MC also echoed the sentiment. Of the Yeezy designer, the source told the news outlet, "His interests are focused on his children, family, and creative endeavors Anyone that is representing Ye in any political capacity is a charlatan. There is no political shop."

he insider further claimed that Ye lost desire to be POTUS after tying the knot with his new wife Bianca Censori, who also works at Yeezy. The two made headlines for their surprise, private ceremony in January.

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The TV personality paid a visit to Los Angeles County's California State Prison on Monday, April 17 along with her younger sister Khloe Kardashian as part of REFORM Alliance's Future Shapers Advisory Council.

Apr 18, 2023

AceShowbiz - Kim Kardashian thinks it is an "honor" to be able to spend time with prison inmates. "The Kardashians" star paid a visit to Los Angeles County's California State Prison on Monday, April 17 along with her younger sister Khloe Kardashian as part of REFORM Alliance's Future Shapers Advisory Council and explained that she wants to use her celebrity platform to "change the lives" of those behind bars.

"It's always an honor to be able to visit the men and women living behind our prison walls," the 42-year-old said following the visit. "Hearing the stories of people trapped in the prison system is what drives my commitment to advocate for reform and find ways to leverage my platform to help change lives and laws."

Kim went on to add that she was "thrilled" to be able to bring the council, which was established in 2018 by rapper Meek Mill, alongside Jay-Z and others, into the prison as she vowed to be building the next generation of leaders. "Today I was especially thrilled to bring REFORM's Future Shapers Advisory Council inside the prison as well. We are building up the next generation of leaders and influencers who will join us in this fight," she stated.

The "Keeping Up with the Kardashians" alum is currently training to be a lawyer and in January of this year is said to have met criminals in "solitary confinement" at the Pelican Bay State Prison in Crescent, CA where she reportedly had discussions with them about their mental health.

At the time, a source told TMZ, "Kim spent a day at Pelican Bay State Prison in Crescent, CA earlier this week." The source added, "Her focus was to meet with inmates in solitary confinement, speaking with them in depth about the toll the lockup can have on their mental stability."

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Today the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) launched the Future of Television Initiative, as announced by Federal Communications (FCC) Commission Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel. The Future of Television Initiative is a public-private partnership to ensure a smooth transition to ATSC 3.0 for broadcasters, other associated industries and, most importantly, the American public. NAB will establish and lead this effort with industry, government and public interest stakeholders to establish a comprehensive roadmap for an orderly and expeditious transition to this exciting new viewer experience.

With over 60 percent of Americans already in range of a Next Gen TV signal, we are excited to work closely with all stakeholders, including the FCC, to bring Next Gen TV and all of its benefits to all viewers, said NAB CEO Curtis LeGeyt. We commend the Chairwoman, her staff and the Media Bureau for the hard work they have put into making this collaborative effort a reality. NAB and broadcasters will continue to work tirelessly to pave the way for this exciting new technology, which will revolutionize the way viewers consume broadcast content and enable local stations to better serve their communities.

The Future of Television Initiative will incorporate three working groups, each designed to address critical components of the transition. These efforts will focus on addressing existing hardware, the technical aspects of executing the transition, and other regulatory issues implicated by the evolution in broadcasting standards. The working groups will be formed in the coming weeks and will involve a diverse array of stakeholders.
During the Welcome Session at NAB Show 2023 today, NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt spoke with Univision Los Angeles' Gabriela Teissier in a fireside chat about the state of the broadcast industry. LeGeyt discussed a wide range of topics, including:

NAB Show 2023:

If we look around this week, we're with tens of thousands of our closest friends here in Las Vegas celebrating the very best of broadcasting, reflecting on the last 100 years of our legacy, while at the same time positioning ourselves to innovate to be relevant to our audiences in the future. This is just such a great opportunity to connect to really celebrate the very best of what we do in communities around the country.

The importance of keeping radio in the car dashboard:

We as an industry have a role to play by stepping up and reminding the public and automakers of our ongoing relevance. The facts are, according to Nielsen, 82 million Americans tuned into AM radio at some point over the last month. Those are staggering statistics and that is an audience penetration that any one of the streaming services would bend over backwards to get. This idea that AM radio has lost relevance, I think shows how focused we are on what may be coming next, and the new shiny object, and maybe a lack of appreciation for what's going on around us and how our neighbors, our family are still consuming their media.

AM radio is fulfilling a role in the Emergency Alerting System that is irreplaceable. For those of us who are walking around with a cell phone, it is easy to say in a time of disaster, 'well listen, I got an alert on my phone. But what does that alert say? Tune into your local media, and those AM stations serve as the backbone for the emergency alerting that goes through the broadcast system.

The importance of local broadcasting:

I think what we do best is bring together people of all different worldviews, all different persuasions, all different interests. And reminding them that we live in communities where we need to have some common cause because we're together and whether it's in our local schools, our local businesses, questions about our local roads or our local public safety. There have been communities around the country, shocked by traumatic events -- whether it is gun violence or incidents of police brutality, all of these issues that impact a community.

That is where local broadcasting is doing its best because we have people on the ground who know those communities and know how to talk about the issues that the community is facing in a way that is relevant specifically to that group. And that group may be some Democrats, some Republicans, all different socioeconomic backgrounds, all different races. I think what is truly unique about broadcasting is we're going to help enable that community being together and solving these problems together.

Attacks on journalists and the media:

There couldn't be a more important moment to stand up for the importance of the work that local journalists are doing. We know that this climate is one where our journalists are subjected to violence, harassment and social media trolling. These are very, very difficult jobs. And we are living in a climate where everyone wants to point at us and label us fake news. And so NAB's principal role before we get to anything else, is serving as a loud megaphone for the incredible work that our journalists across the country are doing, and reminding not only communities, but policymakers that it may be politically convenient to point and label us fake news, but we are the ones rolling up our sleeves in these communities, shining a light on abuses, getting in the weeds, making sure that our communities have the information that they need.

Competing with Big Tech:

We need to innovate to compete in a world in which these big tech behemoths have changed everything. They've changed everything with regard to the local advertising market and our ability to generate advertising dollars to reinvest in our content. They've changed everything as audiences are migrating online, using their platforms to access broadcast television and radio content. And they've got so much market power that they can determine the terms of access that in our view does not allow for fair compensation for our content despite the degree to which we drive tremendous traffic to their sites.

So, in light of that reality, and everyone in this room is facing that in different ways, and thinking about how do we keep this business viable in a world in which we are competing with these completely unregulated behemoths, the FCC has a large role to play. They have a significant role to play in thinking about our current media ownership regulations, both television and radio. Do these regulations need to be modernized to reflect the reality of today's marketplace, where broadcasters aren't simply competing against other broadcasters for advertising dollars and audience? We're competing with everyone. Yet, the regulations we operate under recognize a fairly antiquated reality, and certainly NAB thinks those rules of the road need to be modernized both locally and nationally.

Concluding remarks on the future of broadcasting:

It is innovation that is going to enable us to further our hyperlocal connection to our communities. That is our competitive advantage every day that we are focusing on that innovation, that relevance in both television and radio. That is where we are going to continue to thrive as a strong competitor in this media landscape, but as an indispensable function for our local communities across the country. So, I couldn't be more excited to lead that fight. And I'm just grateful for the conversation today and the opportunity to have so many people out here at this show investing in broadcast future.
Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland

Bern, 18.04.2023 - Following a criminal investigation lasting more than six years, the Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland (OAG) on 17.04.2023 filed its indictment in the Federal Criminal Court (FCC) against Ousman SONKO, interior minister in the Republic of the Gambia from 2006 to 2016. The defendant is accused, in his various capacities and positions, of having supported, participated in and failed to prevent systematic and generalised attacks as part of the repression carried out by the Gambian security forces against all opponents of the regime of the President Yahya JAMMEH. The charges cover a period from 2000 to 2016 and constitute in certain cases crimes against humanity in terms of Article 264a of the Swiss Criminal Code (SCC).

The indictment filed in the Federal Criminal Court contains the following statement of facts:

In July 1994, Yahya JAMMEH, a lieutenant in the Gambian armed forces, led a coup d'etat which deposed Dawda JAWARA, the president of the Republic of The Gambia from its independence in 1970. After a transitional period, JAMMEH was elected president in September 1996. There then began twenty years of authoritarian rule marked by the repression of all opposition to his regime.

SONKO, support for JAMMEH's policies

Ousman SONKO (1969) joined the Gambian armed forces in 1988 and was appointed Commander of the State Guard in 2003, a post in which he was responsible for President JAMMEH's security. In 2005 SONKO was promoted to Inspector General of the Gambian police, before serving as head of the Ministry of the Interior from 2006. In September 2016, some months before the end of the JAMMEH regime, SONKO was removed from his position as Minister and left The Gambia for Europe in order to seek asylum there.

The OAG accuses Ousman SONKO of having supported and participated in the repressive policies of President JAMMEH, which in particular targeted political opponents, journalists and alleged coup plotters, and was characterised by the systematic use of torture, rape, extra-judicial executions, arbitrary detention and forced disappearances.

The repression was the result of systematic action taken on the one hand by groups allegedly directly subordinate to the president (National Intelligence Agency [NIA], the Presidential Guard and the special paramilitary unit known as the Junglers' in particular) and on the other by police forces and the prison authorities, who were allegedly subordinate to the Interior Ministry.

JAMMEH's former minister in Switzerland

At the end of November 2016, the OAG was informed by the Federal Office of Police fedpol that the last Gambian interior minister from the JAMMEH era, Ousman SONKO, was located in the canton of Bern. Investigations were immediately carried out. On 25 January 2017, the NGO TRIAL International filed a criminal complaint against Ousman SONKO with the Public Prosecutor's Office in the canton of Bern, which opened a criminal investigation, arrested him and placed him in pre-trial detention, where he has remained ever since. The OAG took over the cantonal criminal proceedings in February 2017 (see OAG press release dated 6.02.2017*).

Systematic and generalised repression of the civilian population

A particular feature of this case is that the defendant's criminal liability, in terms of Article 264k SCC (criminal liability of superiors), does not result solely from direct involvement in the alleged offences, but also from the responsibilities that he had in his capacity as the interior minister, as he was directly in charge of the police and of the prison service.

After an extensive investigation, which involved numerous interviews with the defendant, some forty interviews with complainants, persons providing information and witnesses, as well as six trips to the Gambia made by the team leading the investigation in terms of a request for mutual assistance executed by the Gambian authorities, the OAG filed its indictment in the FCC on 17.04.2023.

The OAG accuses the defendant in particular of having, in the context of five events between 2000 and 2016, participated, ordered, facilitated and/or failed to prevent killings, acts of torture, acts of rape and numerous unlawful detentions.

The OAG will make its final submissions at the hearing before the FCC in Bellinzona. The presumption of innocence applies to the defendant until a final judgment has been issued. With the filing of the indictment, the FCC has sole responsibility for providing further information.

International criminal law in Switzerland

Since 2011, in addition to appeal proceedings ongoing before the FCC as part of the prosecution of a member of an armed faction involved in the civil war in Liberia, around 90 cases have been submitted to the OAG; most have led to decisions not to bring or to abandon proceedings. This was primarily due to a failure to meet the legal requirements (the existence of an armed conflict or the fact that the alleged perpetrators were not on Swiss territory when the proceedings were opened, for example).



Around fifteen criminal proceedings are currently being conducted for war crimes, genocide and/or crimes against humanity, in connection with acts carried out before and after 2011.

The prosecution in Switzerland of crimes against humanity committed before and after 2011

In April 2009, the Federal Council dispatch on the amendment of federal acts for the purpose of implementing the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court made reference to the principle of the non-retroactivity of offences under international criminal law. Crimes against humanity became offences under the Swiss Criminal Code on 1 January 2011.



In September 2021, in the context of another criminal case, the Lower Appeals Chamber of the FCC in a landmark decision (BB.2021.141**) held that, within certain time-limits, it was possible to reconcile the non-retroactivity of criminal law provisions in accordance with Article 2 SCC and the political considerations that favour the non-application of a statute of limitations to crimes with a historical dimension, such as genocide and crimes against humanity'.



This press release does not consider whether any distinction should be made between crimes committed before and after 2011. That will be a matter for the court to decide.

Original version of the text in French

Address for enquiries

Communication of the Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland; T +41 58 464 32 40; info@ba.admin.ch

Publisher

Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland

http://www.ba.admin.ch/




Just because a social reformer Appa Saheb Dharmadhikari was getting Maharashtra Bhushan Award his followers were asked to march towards Kharghar. Hot summer, lack of water and tired bodies gathered two days in advance have gone fragile. It was a display of power vs powerless. But what perhaps was not taken into account was the blazing sun, which made the water hot, leading to dehydration and heatstroke among many in the gathering and causing 13 deaths. The death of people due to sunstroke was really painful. Neither Dharmadhikari was bothered about the people nor the government authorities. Media was busy with a live telecast of such a huge gathering. No media or authorities noticed the inconvenience to the people until some of them died.

Besides Shah, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis, cabinet minister Sudhir Mungantiwar, MLAs and MLCs attended the event; the podium had air coolers, water, shed and almost all the luxurious facilities but the commoners were made to sit under hot sun and without any facilities. Dharmadhikari, 76, has a massive following in the state due to his tree plantation drives, blood donation and medical camps as well as de-addiction work in tribal areas conducted under the aegis of his organisation Shree Sadasya.

People are gullible, they were told their leader was getting felicitated and one must come to Mumbai, most of them travelled for a day, some reached here by train, bus, walking. Considering the heat aspect, the administration installed 2,100 water taps at the venue and also pressed into service 74 tankers. Besides this, more than 200 water tankers were stationed at various places such as parking and connecting roads. But it was not of big help. Water in these taps and tankers became hot as there was no shed over the taps, pipes and tankers. The tankers, too, were not parked under the trees. As the water was hot, many could not hydrate themselves and due to dehydration felt dizzy, instead, distributing packaged drinking water would have been a better option but in this country no one bothers about the crowd.

Irony is that Appasaheb Dharmadhikari, is social worker and instrumental in conducting various tree plantations, blood donation camps, free medical camps, job fairs, cleanliness drives, superstition eradication, de-addiction centers, etc. in Maharashtra. But he forgot to ensure the wellbeing of his people. He should have instructed the government, or assigned some volunteers to take care of the invited crowd. In 2014, he was conferred Doctor of Letters by [D Y Patil University], Nerul. In 2017, he was awarded Padma Shri, Indias fourth highest civilian honour, and Maharashtra Bhushan award for the year 2023.

The Opposition has targeted the Shiv Sena-Bharatiya Janata Party government over the tragedy with Shiv Sena-Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray leader Sanjay Raut alleging that politics behind the award prevailed over peoples convenience. Leader of Opposition in the Maharashtra Assembly Ajit Pawar, who belongs to Nationalist Congress Party, has sought an inquiry into how the event was organised during noon time when the temperature is very high. The Congress had demanded that accountability be fixed in what it said was a case of culpable homicide.

While 11 people died on Sunday, two more deaths were recorded on Monday. Preliminary autopsy reports suggest all of them died of heatstroke. Around 650 people feel sick because of the heat conditions. The programme started around 10.30 am and concluded after 1 pm. The sun was on their head and the heat was unbearable. The temperature was 38 degree Celsius.

More than 300 doctors were there to help, with a facility of over 4,000 beds. But, due to lack of knowledge, the people did not report their condition to the medical teams available at the venue and collapsed. It was also alleged that after the event concluded, volunteers from the police and the local administration were seen in far less numbers at the venue. When people suffered severely then they were provided with cold water, Oral Rehydration Salt, food and wet towels. Many women collapsed due to excessive heat and the policemen on duty drove them on motorbikes through the crowd to medical assistance centres for first aid and saved their lives. There were no ambulances. Instead of asking for justice to his people Dharmadhikari chose to side with the ruling government, but he did not ask for compensation for those families who lost their loved ones. I am sure even Dharmadhikari will not pay them any losses.
This file image, captured from the Twitter account of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, shows photos of South Korean and U.S. Marines engaging in combined drills at Rodriguez Live Fire Complex in Pocheon, 52 kilometers northeast of Seoul, April 5. Yonhap



The U.S. military has revealed it conducted "combined attack" drills with the Korean military earlier this month, in the allies' latest Marine training to bolster deterrence against growing North Korean threats.



In a tweet Monday, the Indo-Pacific Command disclosed a series of photos showing allied troops engaging in the drills at Rodriguez Live Fire Complex in Pocheon, 52 kilometers northeast of Seoul, on April 5.



The drills, part of the Korea Marine Exercise Program (KMEP), came as the allies are stepping up security coordination amid tensions heightened by the North's continued weapons tests, such as that of a purported solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile last Thursday.



One of the photos showed a U.S. Marine firing an M240B machine gun, while another depicted a Korean soldier conducting radio communications at an outdoor training site.



The command said that the "ironclad" alliance between Korean and U.S. Marines built "lethality" with the combined attack drills.



From late last month through early this month, the allies' Marine forces carried out their first large-scale Ssangyong (double dragon) amphibious landing exercise in five years under a joint push to strengthen combined drills to enhance readiness.



The two countries' Marines engage in 15 to 25 KMEP exercises each year. (Yonhap)


Dr. Donald Bruce Irwin, who turned a Hoover clinic into the 30-state AFC healthcare network, died Friday at the age of 73.

According to an announcement from American Family Care, Irwins death came following a sudden illness.

Dr. Irwin was a visionary leader and pioneer of accessible primary care and urgent care who dedicated his life to improving access to quality healthcare, AFC President Randy Johansen said.

No words can express our sadness about his death or our gratitude for the opportunity to work with him. Dr. Irwins legacy will continue to live on through the work we do every day, and we will be diligent in carrying forward the mission of American Family Care.

Funeral services will be held Saturday at Birminghams Asbury United Methodist Church, with visitation beginning at 2 p.m. and services at 3 p.m.

A graduate of Birmingham Southern College and the UAB School of Medicine, Irwin opened the first American Family Care in Hoover in 1982. The franchise model took off in 2013 when the company acquired, and rebranded Doctors Express, an urgent care franchise.

Headquartered in Birmingham, AFC now has more than 300 locations across 30 states.

In a 2011 interview with The Birmingham News, Irwin recounted how he envisioned the AFC concept from his time as an emergency room physician - for a stand-alone medical facility equipped and staffed like an ER, with extended hours and no need for appointments.

Many people were coming to the emergency room with problems which could have been cared for in a less expensive and more convenient manner, Irwin said.

Irwin said he got the inspiration to become a doctor caring for his father, who was injured on the job as a railroad worker in 1949, and needed a wheelchair for the rest of his life. A later adverse reaction by his father to penicillin resolved Irwin to head to medical school.

He is survived by his wife Carla and several children and grandchildren.
A Mississippi coast mother and her live-in boyfriend are charged with capital murder in the beating death of the womans 5-year-old son.

According to Gulfport police, officers were calle to the 3300 block of 39th Avenue in Gulfport on April 14 on a medical emergency involving a child. The child was transported to Memorial Hospital in Gulfport, where he was pronounced dead.

An autopsy would ultimately reveal the child died from blunt force trauma and the death was ruled a homicide. Gulfport detectives interviewed the mother, 31-year-old Lachelle Renae Washington, and her boyfriend, 29-year-old Denzel Jamal Blakely, and both admitted culpability in the childs death, according to police.

Washington and Blakely live together and have another child together, according to Gulfport police, but Blakely is not the father or stepfather of the victim, identified by Harrison County Coroner Brian Switzer as Edward Lamptey.

Washington and Blakely were taken into custody Monday. Blakely has been charged with capital murder, while Washington is charged with child deprivation of necessaries with substantial harm.

As a capital murder suspect, Blakely is ineligible to post bond. Washingtons bond was set at $50,000. As of midday Tuesday, both remained in the Harrison County Adult Detention Center.
Generic photo taken of a claw machine game.Getty Images/EyeEm

A North Carolina theme park dealt with an unusual occurrence over the weekend.

A 13-year-old boy climbed inside a claw machine to steal a prize and got stuck over the weekend, a spokesperson for the theme park confirmed.

Park officials learned the 13-year-old boy got into the Cosmic XL Bonus Game.

A medical team responded to the scene, unlocked it and freed the boy., Carowinds Director of Communications Courtney McGarry Weber told USA TODAY on Wednesday.

According to reports, the child was treated for unspecified injuries and released after spending 17 minutes inside the machine.

Weber said the boys has been banned from the park for one year for the reported attempted theft.

Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim.
Alabama House members took part in a moment of silence before starting their session day on Tuesday to respect the four people who died Saturday following a mass shooting during a Sweet 16 birthday party in downtown Dadeville.

It was literally 20 yards from the Tallapoosa courthouse square, said Rep. Ed Oliver, R-Dadeville, who spoke briefly about the shooting that happened at 10:34 p.m. Saturday at Mahoganys Masterpiece dance studio on North Broadnax Street, about one block from the county courthouse.

Related:

The shooting, which resulted in four deaths and 32 injuries, remains under investigation by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency. No arrests have been made, and no subjects have been identified. ALEA has called the investigation a very fluid situation.

A sleepy town I grew up in Dadeville, Oliver said, referring to a city of around 3,000 residents about 45 miles northeast of Montgomery. Gun fire erupted in violence, killing four young people, and injuring 32 others, some of those critical. Its a sad day in the state when something so senseless happens. Our hearts go out to families and friends who lost loved ones in this attack.

Residents of the small town of Dadeville, Alabama, are trying to make sense of a deadly shooting April 15, 2023. Rebecca Griesbach/AL.com

Oliver, a 1974 Dadeville High School graduate, thanked law enforcement, first responders and neighboring communities for assisting in the emergency response after the shooting took place.

I ask you to continue to pray for the healing and recovery for this community of Dadeville, he said.

Oliver the read off the names of the four people who were killed: 23-year-old Corbin Dahmontrey Holston of Dadeville, 18-year-old Philstavious Phil Dowdell of Camp Hill, 19-year-old Marsiah Emmanuel Collins of Opelika, and 17-year-old Shaunkivia Nicole Smith of Dadeville.
State investigators leading the probe into the shooting at a weekend birthday party in Dadeville that killed four and wounded 32 others remain said they are still trying to sort out the sequence of events that lead to the gunfire.

Nearly 48 hours after the shooting, few details have been released by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency.

In a written update Monday, State Trooper Sgt. Jeremy Burkett said, Special agents did not recover any high-powered rifle ammunition at the scene; however, they did recover numerous shell casings used in handguns. Investigators are still processing all of the evidence, in conjunction with completing interviews, in an effort to solidify a motive, and potential suspects.

Authorities have not said how many shots were fired or how many people are believed to have fired those shots.

The number of injured was previously listed at 28, but Burkett on Monday said that number has now risen to 32.

Four were killed: Corbin Dahmontrey Holston, Marsiah Emmanuel Siah Collins, 19, Philstavious Dowdell, 18, and Shaunkivia Nicole Keke Smith, 17.

Burkett said ALEA is asking for the publics assistance.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the State Bureau of Investigations crime information hotline at 1-800-392-8011 or email sbi.investigations@alea.gov or Central Alabama Crime Stoppers at 1-833-AL1-STOP or www.215stop.com.

ALEAs Fusion Center has also partnered with the FBIs Mobile Office to provide a digital tip line for videos and photos related to deadly shooting. Those files may be uploaded here.

The 5th Circuit District Attorneys Office is providing a list of resources for victims services that can be found here.
A federal judge has given tentative approval for an agreement between Facebooks parent company, Meta, and lawyers representing plaintiffs in multiple class-action lawsuits.

The suits stem from the Cambridge Analytica scandal in 2018, though Meta denies allegations it shared user data with third parties without permission, the Los Angeles Times reported. Despite the denials, Meta has agreed to pay $725 million to settle the cases.

Final approval hasnt been given but U.S. Facebook users can now file claims. How much you can collect will depend on how much attorneys are paid, how many users file and how many years youve used Facebook.

What to know about the settlement

The settlement covers anyone in the U.S. who had an account on the social media network between May 24, 2007 to Dec. 22, 2022. Each person can only file one claim, even if they have multiple Facebook accounts.

You can file by filing out an online form or downloading the online form and mailing it to Facebook Consumer Privacy User Profile Litigation, c/o Settlement Administrator, 1650 Arch Street, Suite 2210, Philadelphia, PA 19103.

To file, youll need your Facebook user name or phone number or email of your account. You will also have to provide your contact information and select a choice of payment - prepaid MasterCard, PayPal, Venmo, Zelle or check.

Exactly how much you will receive remains to be seen. The amount will depend on how much is taken to cover attorney fees, how many people submit valid claims and how long you were on Facebook in the period covered by the settlement.

According to the Los Angeles Times, the proposed settlement would give 25% of the fund to the plaintiffs attorneys for legal fees, plus an unspecified amount for legal expenses. That will leave less than $544 million to be split among those who file a claim.

The deadline for submitting a claim is Aug. 25 11:59 p.m. Pacific time.

You can see more on the settlement here.
Gun violence is the leading cause of death among children in Alabama, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

AL.com reviewed recent data after four people died and 32 people were injured during a mass shooting at a Sweet 16 birthday party in Dadeville, Alabama. Two people killed were high school students.

Normally kids bury parents, but now parents are having to make arrangements for their children, and thats a sad commentary, said Rev. Emerson Ware, a pastor in nearby Alexander City.

By comparing different datasets, AL.com discovered that:

15 Alabama children have been injured or killed by gun violence so far in 2023, according to the Gun Violence Archive . The number, however, is likely higher as it does not account for Dadeville or a number of reported shootings in the Birmingham area.

80 Alabama children died from gun violence, whether accidental or intentional, in 2021, the most recent year available from CDC data.

Since 2014, 520 children in Alabama have been killed by gun violence and 1060 have been injured, according to the Gun Violence Archive.

The 2021 death toll means that gun violence is now reported as the leading cause of death for children between ages 1-17 in the state. The same is true nationally.

From 2018-2020, firearms were the second-leading cause of death for children in Alabama behind car crashes. In 2020, 38 children died from firearms in Alabama. But in 2021, the number of accidental and intentional deaths from firearms jumped to 80.

Each year, many children also are injured by guns.

Accidents, crossfire, assaults

So far in 2023, incidents recorded by Gun Violence Archive and local media include a 6-year-old who was accidentally shot in Lanett by his younger brother; a 5-year-old who was killed in Selma while sitting in a parked car; a toddler who sustained minor injuries after being grazed by a bullet in Fairfield; an 8-year-old who accidentally killed himself in Russellville while playing with a gun he found; 7- and 13-year-old siblings who were shot and had their mother killed inside their home by an intruder; a 9-year-old who was shot at a Birmingham motel alongside her father; a 2-year-old who was killed in Camden when people shot at the car he and his mother were in; a 7-year-old in Mobile who was shot and injured while in a vehicle; and an 11-year-old in Dothan was shot in the hand during a drive-by shooting.

During spring break in Birmingham, three teenagers, Jada White and Caleb Witt from Birmingham City Schools and Kamaree Shondale Phillips from Jefferson County were killed by gunfire in a three-day span.

This makes three kids that left the classroom and wont return, Officer Truman Fitzgerald said about the killings earlier this month.

Nationwide, Alabama had the fourth highest death rate by firearm for all age groups, behind only Mississippi, Louisiana and New Mexico, respectively.

According to Everytown for Gun Safety, an average of 468 people in Alabama die by gun homicides and 1,325 are wounded by gun assaults every year. Additionally, an average of 549 people in Alabama die by gun suicides and 102 are wounded by gun suicide, which is 57% higher than the national gun suicide rate. Everytown used data available from 2015-2019.

In the days since the Dadeville shooting, public health experts, legislators and advocates have weighed in with different messages about how to prevent further tragedies.

The Alabama Department of Public Health is deeply saddened by the recent shooting that has affected the lives of innocent children and their families in the Dadeville community, a spokesperson for ADPH said in a statement.

We would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone about the importance of child safety, especially when it comes to firearms. We encourage parents and caregivers to talk to their children about gun safety and the importance of reporting any unsafe or suspicious behavior to a trusted adult or authority figure.

Details from the Dadeville shooting remain sparse. Law enforcement have not yet charged anyone with a crime or said whether they have a suspect or suspects in custody.

Legislative changes

Everytown, a gun violence prevention organization, ranks Alabama as having some of the weakest gun laws in the country, and says policy contributes to the high rates of gun violence in the state.

Last year, the Alabama legislature passed a permitless carry law, making it legal to carry a concealed handgun into most public places without a permit. When the bill was debated in the statehouse, sheriffs and police urged legislators to reject it, saying it would make it easier for the wrong people to possess a gun at a time when violent crime is rising in the state.

Ive had the ability for the last 30 years to teach street level police officers throughout the United States, said Gulf Shores Police Chief Edward Delmore at the time. And Ive worked as a police officer all those many years and I can tell you this bill will make it more dangerous for those officers and more dangerous for the citizens of this state. This is a bad bill.

In response to the Dadeville shooting and the Covenant School shooting in Nashville in March, some Alabama lawmakers have proposed legislation to increase gun control, while others recommend reducing restrictions on gun owners.

Some of the bills introduced in the 2023 session include legislation that would punish parents who dont secure guns and allow their children to take them to school; exempt pistol permit owners from being allowed to carry firearms on school property; imprison people with felony records if they are caught with a gun; and require gun owners who have been issued a court-imposed gun violence protective order to relinquish their firearms for at least one year.

Read more on the Dadeville shooting:
A young woman looking for a friends house was shot and killed in upstate New York after she and her friends turned down the wrong driveway, police said Monday.

Kaylin Gillis, 20, was riding in a car in Washington County on Saturday night with three other people, Washington County Sheriff Jeffrey Murphy said.

The group turned down a driveway on Patterson Hill Road in Hebron, but quickly realized their error and attempted to leave, according to Murphy.

Its a very rural area, its dirt roads, theres not a lot of cellular service or any type of internet, the sheriff said.

But as they were leaving, the homeowner stepped outside onto his porch and fired two bullets at the vehicle, police said. One of those bullets struck Gillis.

The group attempted to call 911, but had to drive 5 miles to Cemetery Road in Salem before the call would go through, Murphy said. Responding medical personnel could not save Gillis.

Officers went to the Hebron home and encountered its owner, Kevin Monahan.

Monahan, 65, was not cooperative. He would not come out and talk to patrols, Murphy said. We had a bit of a situation there.

After a standoff lasting more than an hour, Monahan surrendered. He was charged with second-degree murder.

Monahan has not said anything of substance to investigators, Murphy said Monday. He remains behind bars in the Warren County jail.

Gillis was killed two days after Ralph Yarl, 16, was shot and wounded after knocking on the wrong door in Kansas City, Mo. The suspect in the teenagers case was initially released but later charged with two felonies.

Missouri is one of 30 states with so-called stand your ground laws that allow property owners to shoot first and ask questions later. New York is not one of those states; under New York law, homeowners have a duty to retreat.

2023 New York Daily News. Visit nydailynews.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Licensed cultivators could start growing marijuana for Alabamas new medical cannabis industry in greenhouses or warehouses before the end of the summer.

The Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission will issue licenses to as many as 17 companies to raise the plants, which will be grown in enclosed facilities with round-the-clock video monitoring and tight security.

AMCC board member Rex Vaughn said experts have told him it will take about 14 weeks for plants to be ready for processing to make pills, capsules, gelatinous cubes, oils, patches, and other products. Those could be available to eligible patients in Alabama dispensaries by as early October or November, Vaughn said.

Thats kind of what our game plan has been, Vaughn said. That will put us mid-fall trying to get products available. Thats what were hoping for.

AMCC Assistant Director Daniel Autrey said he was reluctant to speculate but said early next year is probably a good estimate for product availability.

Again, I hesitate to put a time on that, Autrey said. But I think by first quarter of 24. And hopefully before. It just kind of depends on the supply chain and a number of things, the challenges the licensees will face. AMCC Director John McMillan has previously said products could be available late this year or early next year. Alabama is one of 38 states to authorize medical marijuana. The Legislature passed the bill in 2021.

Autrey and Vaughn said lawsuits are a potential snag that could disrupt the timeline. The AMCC announced last week that it was reviewing 90 applicants for licenses from companies that want to cultivate, transport, process, test, and dispense medical cannabis. The AMCC will award the licenses June 12 and issue them about one month later, Autrey said.

Applicants that do not receive a license can appeal that decision to the AMCC. And if that appeal fails, they can take the matter to court, Autrey said.

Certainly that would be one thing that could delay, Autrey said. Absolutely that could delay our program. I would like to think we could skate by that. But well just see.

There has already been some litigation. Three companies sued the AMCC over what they said were problems with the online application portal that they said caused them to miss the application deadline of Dec. 30, 2022, Alabama Daily News reported. A Montgomery judge heard evidence and ruled in favor of two of the three, requiring the AMCC to accept their applications for review.

Twelve companies applied for cultivation licenses. In addition, the AMCC can issue up to five licenses for integrated facilities that will grow the cannabis. Integrated facilities will also process, transport, and dispense the products. The AMCC posted the names of the applicants in all categories on its website Thursday and posted redacted applications on Friday, along with a form for the public to submit comments.

Some of the applications for cultivator licenses are redacted more heavily than others. Six do not show the location of the proposed cultivation facility. The six that do show the addresses are in Atmore, Centre, Fairhope, Frisco City, Greenville, and McCalla.

The law requires the facilities to be in Alabama. It requires license applicants to show that the majority owners have lived in Alabama at least 15 continuous years before the application date.

Here are the number of applications accepted by the AMCC in Thursdays announcement and the maximum number of licenses the AMCC can award on June 12:

Cultivators: 12 applications accepted; limit of 12 licenses to be issued.

Processors: 11 applications accepted; limit of 4 licenses to be issued.

Dispensaries: 18 applications accepted; limit of 4 licenses to be issued. (Each licensee can have three dispensary locations.)

Secure transporters: 9 applications accepted; no limit specified.

State testing labs: 2 applications accepted; no limit specified.

Integrated facilities: 38 applications accepted; limit of 5 licenses to be issued. (Integrated facilities will be authorized to cultivate, process, transport, and dispense medical cannabis. Each integrated licensee can have up to five dispensaries).

The licensing categories are part of a sweeping set of regulations in the state law and in rules approved by the AMCC. The goal is to regulate the production of medical marijuana from seed to sale. That starts with the companies that will raise the plants.

Cultivators must grow the plants in enclosed structures using artificial light exclusively or to supplement natural sunlight. A security plan to control access to the plants is required. Criminal background checks are required for employees.

The Alabama Department of Agriculture & Industries will inspect the cultivating facilities at least twice a year. A state testing lab will test samples at least four times a year for pesticides and other hazards. Cultivators must document that they destroyed unused cannabis plant material. .

Alabama Agriculture Commissioner Rick Pate said his agencys role will be mostly limited to making sure the cultivators follow the rules to secure their facilities, such as video cameras and secured entrances.

Our only role, and like I said, its not an agricultural role, is while the stuff is growing, they have to meet those security requirements and other things that we do require, Pate said.

Pate said the agency has a larger role in regulating hemp growers in Alabama. Hemp is a form of cannabis that has much smaller amounts of THC, the chemical that causes people to feel high. For example, the department checks to make sure plants do not exceed a limit of 0.3 percent THC content, the legal limit for hemp. Hemp is farmed for CBD oil, which is believed to have health benefits, and has been raised in Alabama for about years.

Pate said one requirement for marijuana cultivators is that the plants must be raised in containers. He said growing it in the ground would have required soil testing for contaminants like metals.

One of the requirements that came up was whether to let them grow it in the soil, Pate said. We made the decision they couldnt. People are going to be eating it. I guess its mostly going to be in some digestible product rather than smokeable so we were concerned that you never know whats in somebodys soil.

Pate said marijuana cultivators will be highly knowledgeable and said he believes most are aligned with partners that have experience raising cannabis in other states.

I look for a pretty high level of professionalism, Pate said. This is not going to be Bubba from whatever Black Belt county that just thinks he can grow good marijuana gets in that business. Its going to be pretty sophisticated business people.

Vaughn, who raises row crops and beef cattle on his farm in Huntsville, said cultivators will need a large initial investment and have a small margin for error such as crop failure.

They will have the ultimate in a controlled environment in how theyre producing these marijuana plants, Vaughn said. They really cannot afford any less. They will have to control every aspect in the production part of it to make sure that theyre timely about their production and also that the quality of the plant is protected and the THC content in the plant is what they need it to be when it comes harvest time.

It will be intense, Vaughn added. I would not want to do it.

Alabama doctors who receive training in medical cannabis will be able to recommend products for more than a dozen conditions -- autism spectrum disorder; cancer-related pain, weight loss, and vomiting; Crohns Disease; depression; epilepsy or conditions causing seizures; HIV/AIDS-related nausea or weight loss; panic disorder; Parkinsons Disease; persistent nausea; post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); sickle cell anemia; spasticity associated with multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injury; Tourettes Syndrome; a terminal illness; and conditions causing chronic or intractable pain.

The legislation allows the products to be pills, capsules, tinctures, gelatinous cubes, oils, creams, patches, suppositories, nebulizers, and liquids or oils for an inhaler. No raw plant materials or products for smoking or eating will be allowed.

The products will be sold in licensed dispensaries in cities and counties that have authorized them with a resolution or ordinance. Birmingham, Huntsville, Mobile, Montgomery, and Tuscaloosa are among the more than 50 cities and nine counties that have given their approval. Here is the list on the AMCC website.

Vaughn said cultivators will need deep financial resources because they can probably expect to wait two or three years before they can get a return on what will be a substantial investment.

Ive heard some of the guys say Im prepared to lose money for the first two years, Vaughn said. I think theyre wise to plan that way.

Read more: Huntsville gives approval to medical marijuana dispensaries

Alabama city grapples with confusion, misconceptions over medical marijuana dispensary

Why Alabamas medical marijuana industry might be cash-only
This photo released by the North's official Korean Central News Agency shows North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, right, and his daughter, known as Ju-ae, visiting the North's space development agency, April 18. Yonhap



North Korean leader Kim Jong-un said Pyongyang has completed building its first military spy satellite and ordered final preparations to launch the satellite as planned, the North's state media reported Wednesday, in a move that is expected to further heighten tensions on the Korean Peninsula.



Kim made the remarks during an on-site inspection to the North's space development agency a day earlier, as Pyongyang has vowed to complete preparations of the launch of a military spy satellite by the end of this month, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).



Kim "set forth the militant task to organize a non-permanent satellite-launching preparatory committee to make sure that the military reconnaissance satellite No. 1 completed as of April will be launched at the planned date, speed up its final preparations and firmly establish the satellite intelligence-gathering capability by deploying several reconnaissance satellites in different orbits in succession in the future," the KCNA reported.



Kim also stressed that the planned launch and operation of the reconnaissance satellite is the "most crucial primary task" for the North to strengthen its military effectiveness of war deterrence against what it called schemes by South Korea and the United States to bolster their military posture against the North.



In December last year, North Korea said it had conducted an "important final-stage" test at its rocket launching facility for putting a military reconnaissance satellite into orbit.



During the visit, which marked Kim's first visit to the agency since March last year, the North Korean leader justified the possession of the reconnaissance satellite as a means of self-defense that can "never be abandoned."



During the visit, which marked Kim's first visit to the agency since March last year, the North Korean leader justified the possession of the reconnaissance satellite as a means of self-defense that can "never be abandoned."



"Possession of such a satellite is a primary task to be indispensably fulfilled to bolster up the armed forces of the DPRK that can never be abandoned, missed and changed, and belongs to its sovereign and legitimate right to self-defense in view of the requirements of the recent security environment on the Korean peninsula and tackling of the long-term threats," Kim said.



DPRK stands for the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, North Korea's official name.





This photo released by the North's official Korean Central News Agency shows North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, second from right, and his daughter, known as Ju-ae, visiting the North's space development agency, April 18. Yonhap



A KCNA photo showed a screen displaying the purported military satellite  a hexagon-shaped structure carrying four solar panels. Analysts estimated it could weigh 200-300 kilograms.



Kim's directive at the agency to produce "standardized and reliable carrier rockets on a full scale" raised questions over what launch platform the North would employ for its first spy satellite liftoff.



Chang Young-keun, a missile expert at the Korea Aerospace University raised the possibility that the North could use a new space launch vehicle or a solid-propellant rocket  used in its recent test-launch of a Hwasong-18 intercontinental ballistic missile.



While it was not mentioned in the report, photos carried by the KCNA showed that Kim was accompanied by his daughter, Ju-ae, rather formally dressed in black suit pants and a light beige blouse.



Wednesday's report comes amid heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula as the North has not responded to routine cross-border calls through inter-Korean liaison and military communication lines since April 7.



Pyongyang has recently conducted other major weapons tests, such as the launch of the Hwasong-18 solid-fuel ICBM this month and what it claimed to be underwater nuclear attack drones, in protest against combined springtime military drills between South Korea and the U.S. (Yonhap)



Against this backdrop, some observers said the North may attempt to launch the satellite ahead of President Yoon Suk Yeol's upcoming state visit to the U.S. later this month.



"There is a high possibility that North Korea may attempt a launch around April 23-24, on the basis that weather conditions are favorable, to show off that it has the upper hand on the Korean Peninsula issue by putting it on the table during the South Korea-U.S. summit," Yang Mu-jin, president of the University of North Korean Studies, said.



Some observers, however, projected that it will take a few more months for the North to put the satellite into orbit given the time needed for technical preparations. (Yonhap)




A proposed annexation plan to add as many as 25,806 residents and make Mobile the second-largest city in Alabama will dilute city personnel and police officers assigned to the current boundaries of the city, some residents fear.

But Councilman William Carroll says those fears are unfounded. Police patrol three miles outside of the city limits within Mobiles police jurisdiction, covering approximately 70,000 residents.

Related:

Those concerns were expressed during the Mobile City Council meeting Tuesday as annexation talks heat up following the release earlier this month of a report advocating for adding tens of thousands of new residents west of Mobile.

Advocates for annexation also spoke out during the council meeting, combating criticism from anti-annexation groups over issues that include a dilution of Black voters if a mostly white area of Mobile is brought into the city limits.

West Mobile citizens dont have an SPLC or ACLU or other political organizations, said Freddy Wheeler, secretary of the West Mobile Annexation Committee. All we have is people in our communities. Let us vote.

Community meetings

The annexation talks will continue during individual community meetings scheduled over the next two weeks. The first will be held tonight at 6 p.m. at the James Seals Park Community Center, hosted by Carroll.

The others include:

6 p.m. April 27 at the Connie Hudson Mobile Regional Community Center, 3201 Hillcrest Road.

6 p.m. April 27 at Craighead Elementary School, 1000 S. Ann St.

6 p.m. on May 1 at the Mobile Museum of Art, 4850 Museum Drive

Under consideration is whether council members should vote in support of allowing a special election that will then determine whether residents living within the unincorporated areas of Mobile should be annexed into the city.

The city is pitching four different annexation proposals and is looking to grow the city from anywhere between 16,738 residents  equivalent to the size of Muscle Shoals  to 25,806 residents  which is slightly larger than adding the entire city of Fairhope.

The end result is to boost Mobiles population well above 200,000 residents, and having the city leap over Birmingham and Montgomery to become the second-largest in Alabama trailing only fast-growing Huntsville.

Dilution of services

Some Mobile residents fret the addition of tens of thousands of new residents will dilute a police department that is already suffering from personnel shortages. According to Chief Paul Prine last month, the agency is down 70 police officers from its typical budget of 488. Last year, 83 officers left the department, while 61 of them  or 73% of those who left  resigned.

We have weekly complaints or (hear) excuses from the council regarding the problems of hiring adequate staff to service the needs of the city and to provide public safety to the city, said resident Betty Shinn. Taking care of current problems appears to be overwhelming. Why would addressing annexation without (addressing personnel), help?

Darlene Martin, also a Mobile resident, said the issues of hiring adequate number of employees should be addressed first before more residents are added to the citys population.

How many more city staff above what we currently have area needed? she asked.

Carroll said that Mobile police are already covering the areas that could be annexed into the city limits largely due to the existing police jurisdiction.

The annexation will be a quarter of that, if we even do (annexation), Carroll said. The personnel is already out there. We are already operating out there and servicing 70,000 people, which is more (people) than any map or study area weve seen.

Carroll argued that Mobile is spending around $26 million to police the extraterritorial jurisdiction without receiving revenues from residents within the area because their properties are not within the citys boundaries.

Adding garbage and trash (services) would be small compared to what we are (already) doing, Carroll said.

Carrolls comments come after he defended the annexation process after it received criticism last week from the Mobile County Democratic Partys executive committee over concerns that it will dilute the citys Black representation on the council.

Annexation proponents, including Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson, have said that adding a large swath of properties west of Mobile will generate revenues and boost up grant opportunities for the city. Proponent say the city stands to gain $7.1 million to $8.4 million immediately in extra sales tax revenues from the annexed territories, depending on which territories are brought into the city.

What we do now has a heavy weight on the economic prosperity in the city in the next 20 to 30 years, Carroll said last week.

Voting-age demographics

Annexation Study Area A-- this proposed map would annex around 26,000 people.

A previous annexation plan, which called for adding around 13,000 new residents within a similar area west of Mobile, crumbled in 2019, and was voted down by the City Council by a 4-3 vote along racial lines.

Similar concerns about demographic makeup of future Mobile electorates exist with the current proposals. Each of the annexation plans maintain Mobile as a majority Black city, but voting-age populations would be close an even Black-and-white split.

If the citys largest annexation plan is adopted, Mobiles voting age population would be a razor-thin 46.8% Black and 46.7% white makeup.

Wheeler said annexation opponents are sewing seeds of distrust between the citys Black residents and west Mobile.

We support Stand Up Mobile in efforts to register Black voters, Wheeler said, referring to a low turnout among Black voters during recent municipal elections. We are vigorously opposed to pitting African Americans against West Mobilians to do it.

Some Black Mobilians say they want the city to grow further to the west.

I truly believe in the vision of Mobile and that vision is growing and annexing the western corridor, said Monica Lane, a resident of Mobile for the past 44 years. Mobile, to me, is a melting pot of Americans of different dreams, goals and relationships. We should want to be all-inclusive and have no separates us. I believe expansion is absolutely necessary for our citys continued growth.
With unanswered question clouding last months police shooting death of 25-year-old Kordell Jones, a group of community activists and Jones own family gathered at a church Monday to call for an end to gun violence, and to begin plotting strategies.

There comes a time when you get sick and tired of being sick and tired, and you got to do something about it, said the Rev. Marvin Charles Lue Jr., senior pastor at Stewart Memorial CME Church, who led the meeting at Mt. Zion Primitive Baptist Church adjacent to Interstate 10.

Related:

This is not a time to compromise because the cause cannot be compromised, Lue said. We cannot afford to compromise at this moment.

The 45-minute meeting hosted by Faith in Action Alabama Mobile Hub was highlighted by a six-point call to action that included an overarching goal to end gun violence in Mobile, and to demand more transparency from police into the investigation of Jones death.

The group also called for additional programs to improve police-community relations, and the release of police-worn body cameras during their encounter with Jones. Police, so far, have declined to release the cameras as the Jones shooting remains under investigation.

Next steps

In addition, the group plotted out their next steps which will include physically attending Mobile City Council meetings, speaking at those meetings, and researching actions that can be addressed by local and county officials.

The meeting took place one day after a mass shooting in Dadeville  about 45 minutes away from Montgomery  that occurred during a Sweet 16 birthday party leaving four people killed, and 32 injured.

The Dadeville shooting, which has captured national attention, was not mentioned during the meeting. But general gun violence in Mobile, which continues on a routine basis, was one of the meetings main focuses. A rally to end gun violence in Mobile is scheduled for June 4, and some attendees are also calling on pastors to get more involved in the neighborhoods that surround their churches.

What we need mostly in this community is God, said Elnora Orr of Mobile. We need to pray for guidance, wisdom and how to talk to our children. We got to tell them you dont need to turn around and get into a fight with your brother and then turn around and shoot him.

She added, Black on Black crime is the worst crime in Mobile. A child getting mad at another child (and shooting them). The devil is walking to and from this earth and trying to see who he can divide and who he can make do this.

Police shooting

The meeting also focused on Jones death, which remains under investigation by Mobile police. No additional details about the shooting have been released since an initial news conference three days after it happened.

Jones was shot and killed while a Mobile police SWAT team was attempting to execute a search warrant at 856 Charles St., related to a robbery investigation involving his brother, Jason Jones.

Kordell Jones

A 2016 graduate of B.C. Rain High School, Jones was shot and killed while police attempted to put everyone on notice inside the house in an attempt to get them to leave in an orderly fashion. Six people reportedly complied and left the home after authorities attempted to gain access by the front door through an energized breach method that created a loud boom and rattled the neighborhood south of downtown Mobile.

Lue said activists will request Mobile officials to enact a moratorium on no knock warrants and explosive devices that force entry into residences within Mobile and Mobile County.

Jones, according to police, leapt through a rear window and was completely nude and armed with an AR-style rifle he legally owned after police gained entry. Jones was shot dead by a SWAT officer, after an unnamed officer shot him four times.

Family members including Jones mother, Monica; sister, LaKenda; and aunt, Debra Mosley, attended the meeting and vowed to be more active.

This meeting was very powerful, said Mosley. Its a powerful call to action for Kordell Jones and others who have lost their lives to senseless gun violence in the city of Mobile and county of Mobile. Moving forward, change is going to happen.

Lue said the goal is to ensure that the groups actions have a purpose.

We are not going to get up and just talk, he said. It has to have a meaning behind it.

Cpl. Katrina Frazier, spokeswoman with the Mobile Police Department, said her agency was unaware of the gathering and were unable to attend due to the ongoing investigation and our desire to respect the legal process that must take place through the judicial system.

The shooting is also being investigated by the Mobile County District Attorneys Office.

Nevertheless, we fully support the communitys efforts to end gun violence and honor Kordell Jones, said Frazier. We recognize the importance of events such as these in creating positive change toward a more peaceful society.
Bre Hutchinson was listening to music and dancing with friends when the unthinkable happened.

The 16-year-old Tallassee High School sophomore cheerleader was having fun at Alexis Dowdells Sweet 16 birthday party, and the next thing she knew she was on the floor, shot, bleeding and trying to find her way out of chaos after gunfire erupted inside the party.

She heard the shots, and everybody went to running, said her mother, Vicky Brown Hutchinson. She fell and her leg went up and thats when she got shot.

Bre has undergone one surgery and is facing another today. The bullet struck her pelvis and remains lodged in her hip.

Shes not really showing emotion, her mother said. But shes in a lot of pain.

Im so scared and never thought I would be going through this,' Bre wrote on Facebook, but I know God is on my side and hes gone continue to bless me.

In a video interview with ABC 33/40 from her hospital bed, Bre said, nobody would help me so I had to like gain my strength and like walk outside after being shot.

Bre is one of 32 people injured when what appears to be a shootout erupted inside the private event venue Mahoganys Masterpiece.

One of her classmates, 16-year-old Cara Johns, remains in critical condition at a Columbus hospital.

Four others were killed: Corbin Dahmontrey Holston, 23, a Dadeville High School graduate; Marsiah Emmanuel Siah Collins, 19, an Opelika High School graduate; Philstavious Dowdell, 18, and Shaunkivia Nicole Keke Smith, 17, both Dadeville High Schools seniors.

The birthday party drew teens from around Dadeville, Tallassee and Pike Road.

I didnt know the girl whose party it was but I knew her friends she was going with and so I thought it was fine, her mother said. Weve never had a problem like this.

Bre Hutchinson was one of 32 people injured when shooting erupted at a Dadeville birthday party on April 15, 2023. Four others were killed. (Special to AL.com.)

Few details have been released by investigators.

Keenan Cooper, the DJ at the party, told WBMA-TV the event was stopped briefly when partygoers heard someone had a gun. He said people with weapons were asked to leave, but no one did.

Soon after, the shooting started.

Alexis Dowdell told the Associated Press she dove to the floor near the DJ as the dozens of revelers ran. She didnt know where to run, in part because shots seemed to come from multiple directions.

When there was a break in the gunfire, Alexis bolted for the front door. But someone pushed her. It was Phil, trying to protect her.

I guess he tried to push me out the door as fast as he could, but I ended up slipping on blood, because it was a whole bunch of blood on the floor, she said.

Bodies were piled by the door, too, so I had to crawl over people to get out, Alexis said.

From what little information has been released, it appears there may have been multiple shooters.

Alabama State Trooper Sgt. Jeremy Burkett on Monday evening said investigators did not recover any high-powered rifle ammunition at the scene but said they did recover numerous shell casings used in handguns.

Investigators are still processing all of the evidence, in conjunction with completing interviews, in an effort to solidify a motive, and potential suspects, Burkett said.

Authorities have not said whether they have identified any suspects. They are pleading with partygoers or anyone else with information to come forward.

33 Dadeville birthday party shooting

Hutchinson said she has no words for the terror that unfolded that night for her daughter and her daughters friends.

It seems like a dream to me, she said. Its devastating.

She is asking for prayers, not only for her daughter and the other victims, but also that justice be delivered.

To the shooters, she says this: Youve got to face judgement and your punishment. God will handle it all.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
NASA says a retired solar imaging spacecraft is predicted by the Defense Department to reenter the Earths atmosphere Wednesday night and some of it will survive to strike Earth.

The risk of harm coming to anyone on Earth is low  approximately 1 in 2,467, NASA said Monday afternoon. The Department of Defense estimates the 660-pound spacecraft will reenter the atmosphere at approximately 8:30 p.m. CDT Wednesday with an uncertainty of +/- 16 hours.

The craft named the Reuven Ramaty High Energy Solar Spectroscopic Imager (RHESSI) was launched to explore the basic physics of particle acceleration and explosive energy releases in solar flares, NASA said. It was launched in 2002.

The spacecraft data provided vital clues about solar flares and their associated coronal mass ejections, NASA this week. These events release the energy equivalent of billions of megatons of TNT into the solar atmosphere within minutes and can have effects on Earth, including the disruption of electrical systems.

RHESSI recorded more than 100,000 X-ray events while it functioned and that work allowed scientists to study the energetic particles in solar flares by following the flares frequency, location and movement. RHESSI also stepped outside its primary mission to help scientists improve their measurements of the suns shape.

NASA and the Department of Defense will continue to monitor reentry and update predictions.
For the first time in four years, NASAs Human Exploration Rover Challenge returns to Alabama this week with 48 competing teams and more than 500 students.

Competition at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center will run Friday and Saturday from 7:30 a.m. until 3 p.m. both days  or until the last teams rover completes the course  and the public is invited.

Teams are coming from 16 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico and the countries of Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Dominican Republic, India, Mexico, Peru and Singapore.

They will race for time over a half-mile-long obstacle course built on the Space & Rocket Centers Aviation Challenge programs grounds. That course is designed to simulate the terrain of the moon, Mars and other distant space bodies.

Racing the clock isnt all the teams must do to win. They must complete mission-focused science tasks and submit detailed reports on their rovers that can pass critical design and safety reviews by real NASA engineers.

The competition is celebrating its 29th year after the pandemic shut it down for three years. It was originally Inspired by the Lunar Rover designed and built in Huntsville for the Apollo moon landings and is one of Americas biggest student engineering and team competitions.

Now, it is also one of eight Artemis Student Challenges NASA says give students access to the kinds of knowledge and technology needed to achieve the goals of its Artemis Program. That program seeks to return America astronauts to the moon for long-term stays.

The Space & Rocket Center is running a shuttle from its Davidson Center for Space Exploration parking lot to the Rover Challenge course during the event.
A new proposal would revive the practice of sending monthly checks to families

The End Child Poverty Act was introduced earlier this month by Democratic Reps. Ilhan Omar, Minnesota, Rashida Tlaib, Michigan and Jesus Garcia, Illinois. The bill would establish a universal benefit to give families $393 per month until the child turns 18.

Congress must take federal action to address child poverty and help millions of families afford basics like food, rent, childcare and healthcare. The End Child Poverty Act would cut childhood poverty by nearly two-thirds, Omar said.

The new program would replace the Child Tax Credit. The CTC, which currently provides a credit of up to $2,000 a year, was expanded during the pandemic to $3,000 per child ages 6-17 and $3,600 per child aged 5 and younger, with half payable in monthly installments of up to $300. It was allowed to expire back to pre-pandemic levels and no monthly payments, however, with Congress seemingly resistant to making it permanent.

READ MORE: 23,900 Alabamians owed average of $880 from IRS and time to claim is running out

The expanded Child Tax Credit lifted 2.9 million children out of poverty and cut child poverty in nearly half, but now that it has expired, too many families are struggling to make ends meet. In the richest country in the history of the world, no family should have to choose between keeping a roof over their head and putting food on the table to feed their children, Tlaib said in a press release.

The newly proposed program would include no caps on income and children would automatically be enrolled at birth. Payments would be distributed by the Social Security Administration.

The payments  about $4,700 a year per child  would help reduce child poverty by 64%, proponents said.
The University of South Alabama Health Care Authority is buying Providence Hospital from St. Louis-based Ascension and its clinics in an $85 million transaction expected to be completed later this fall.

The transaction was approved by the USA Board of trustees during its meeting Tuesday in Mobile.

This is a very exciting day for health care in the Mobile region, said Owen Bailey, CEO with USA Health. Were excited about what Providence Hospital brings to the table. Our goal is a smooth transition of services with little disruption.

The acquisition will allow the healthcare authority to acquire the 349-bed, 11-story Providence Hospital facility on Airport Boulevard and its related sites of care, including physician practices of Ascension Medical Group. Providence is a full-service facility with 24/7 emergency care, a Level III trauma center, an outpatient diagnostic center, and a freestanding rehabilitation and wellness center.

USA and Providence Hospital will continue to operate independently until the transaction is finalized.

Dr. John Marymont, vice-president for medical affairs and dean of the Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine at the University of South Alabama, said there are no plans for layoffs. Providence currently employs around 2,100 employees, he said.

Quite the contrary, Marymont said. We welcome them to our family. We have great aspirations of a smooth transition and offering more services and opportunities of health care needs for Alabama and the Gulf Coast. I think this will enhance both hospitals.

Marymont said that USA Health and Ascension had been in talks for the past six years about a possible partnership, and said he was confident about the transaction. Ascension Health, a 138-hospital system in 19 states, closed its last fiscal year with a $1.8 billion net loss, amid soaring operational costs.

We have done an extreme amount of due diligence and we are confident in the evaluation of the opportunity, Marymont said.

Bailey said for USA Health, the past five years have been a period of explosive growth, which he said has seen the health system grow from approximately seven locations in 2016 to 30 or so within the Mobile area.

USA Health is the only academic health system along the upper Gulf Coast, and operates University Hospital in Mobile, Childrens & Womens Hospital, and the Mitchell Cancer Institute.

We are at and exceeding capacity at our hospitals at USA Health, said Bailey. This (transaction) is about having three hospitals instead of two and what that means about more options to place patients. Instead of being a negative, it will be a positive.

He added, When you are growing at a rate we are growing, you need to make key decisions on what is best for patients.
Alabamas roads are among the most deadly in the country, according to a recent analysis that looked at a variety of traffic conditions across the U.S.

The analysis from finn.com found Mississippi had the deadliest roads in the country with 25 road deaths per 100,000 people.

The Magnolia State takes the unfortunate title of the state with the most dangerous roads with 25 deaths per 100,000 residents. Mississippi has a high proportion of rural highways, which are often more dangerous than urban roads thanks to higher speed limits and lack of police supervision, which could explain the high proportion of lethal accidents, the website noted.

That was followed by Wyoming and Arkansas and Carolina (tied for third).

Alabama ranked seventh for the deadliest roads. The state reported 19 deaths per 100,000 residents with 852 fatal crashes.

Here are the 10 most deadly states for drivers:

1. Mississippi  25 deaths per 100,000 residents

2. Wyoming 25 deaths per 100,000 residents

3. Arkansas  25 deaths per 100,000 residents

4. South Carolina  21 deaths per 100,000 residents

5. Montana  20 deaths per 100,000 residents

6. New Mexico  19 deaths per 100,000 residents

7. Alabama  19 deaths per 100,000 residents

8. Louisiana  18 deaths per 100,000 residents

9. Tennessee  18 deaths per 100,000 residents

10. Kentucky  17 deaths per 100,000 residents

You can see the complete state-by-state list here.
An investigation is underway after a person was killed Monday night in west Birmingham.

Birmingham police and Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service responded about 6:36 p.m. to a report of a person shot on Huntington Lane in the Huntington Hills neighborhood off Cherry Avenue. Neighbors said the area is usually quiet with no problems.

They arrived to find the victim unresponsive inside the house. He was pronounced dead on the scene at 6:56 p.m.

The Jefferson County Coroners Office identified the slain man as Isaiah Randall Harris. He was 22.

Officer Truman Fitzgerald said the preliminary investigation indicates that there was a small gathering at the house. Harris and the suspect were in a room playing video games.

The other people at the home then heard shots and the suspect fled the scene.

Police said he is in custody.

A 22-year-old man was shot to death April 17, 2020, inside a home on Huntington Lane in west Birmingham. (Carol Robinson)

Dozens of grieving family members and friends gathered at the crime scene.

Harris is the citys 33rd homicide in 2023, and the second to take place on Monday.

Of the citys homicides this year, one was an officer-involved shooting by an outside agency and three others have been ruled justifiable and therefore arent deemed criminal.

In all of Jefferson County, there have been 45 homicides including the 33 in Birmingham.
One teen was killed, and another injured in a crash in Chambers County.

The wreck happened at 6:45 p.m. Monday on Chambers County 268, about 10 miles west of Roanoke, said Alabama State Trooper Cpl. Reginal King.

State troopers do not release the names of juvenile victims.

Roanoke City Schools identified the fatality victim as Handley High School senior Terrance Tucker.

Zehkylah Joiner and Terrance Tucker (Handley High School)

A 16-year-old female was driving a Honda Accord that left the road and struck a tree. She was taken to the hospital with undisclosed injuries.

Tucker, who was not using a seat belt, was pronounced dead on the scene, King said.

The investigation is ongoing by troopers.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, center, accompanied by U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel, right, is greeted by Japan's Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi, left, as he boards a train at Tokyo Station, April 16. AP-Yonhap



U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and his Japanese counterpart, Yoshimasa Hayashi, highlighted the importance of trilateral cooperation between their countries and Korea in a meeting held in Tokyo, according to the state department on Monday.



Blinken and Hayashi met on the sidelines of the Group of 7 foreign ministers' meeting being held in Karuizawa, Japan.



"Secretary Blinken congratulated Foreign Minister Hayashi for the recent progress on Japan-ROK bilateral relations, and they both emphasized the importance of U.S.-Japan-ROK trilateral cooperation to maintain a free and prosperous Indo-Pacific region," state department deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel said in a released statement.



ROK stands for the Republic of Korea, Korea's official name.



Seoul-Tokyo relations recently improved after Korea unilaterally decided to put aside historical issues related to Japan's 1910-45 colonial rule of the Korean Peninsula that had been a source of legal and political disputes between the two neighbors for many years.



U.S. President Joe Biden hailed Korea's move last month, with National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby calling it a "truly historical announcement."



"President Biden welcomes that March 6 announcement, which was meant to address their historical issues and to improve bilateral ties," Kirby said earlier.



"The United States will continue, of course, to support Japan and the ROK as they take steps to translate this new understanding into enduring progress," he had said.



Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol is set to hold a bilateral summit with Biden in Washington next Wednesday, two days after arriving for a state visit, marking only the second state visit under the Biden administration. (Yonhap)


A suspect has pleaded guilty in the 2019 fatal shooting of a UAB student outside the Riverchase Galleria.

Michael Jaran Brown, one of three men charged in the killing of 20-year-old Zachariah Taylor Music, pleaded guilty April 14 to felony murder, court records show.

Jefferson County Circuit Judge Alaric May sentenced Brown, 23, to 20 years in prison with five years to serve.

Brown was given credit for 857 days  just over two years  for time served. Hes been in the Jefferson County Jail since his arrest in December 2020.

Previously charged and indicted in Musics death are Dannarious De Shon Washington, 24, and Michael Jabari Akamune, 24. Washington is charged with capital murder, and Akamune is charged with murder.

Their trial dates have not yet been set.

According to court records in the case against Washington, Music was killed during the course of a theft of cash and THC vape cartridges.

Zachariah Taylor Music

Hoover police and firefighters responded about 1:30 p.m. that Wednesday, June 26, 2019, to the fifth floor of the North Parking Deck. When they arrived, they found Music inside a vehicle suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead on the scene at 1:39 p.m.

This was not a random shooting, and we were aware of that within the first 10 minutes of arriving on the scene, now-retired Hoover police Capt. Gregg Rector said following Akamunes arrest. We have several individuals who were engaged in high-risk activities and sometimes those activities turn tragic.

There were lots of terrible decisions made (that) Wednesday, Rector said, and all of those individuals are now going to be held accountable for their actions.

I think by now everyone knows this situation involved drugs and an armed robbery attempt, Rector said.
A 60-year-old man was killed when his car struck the rear of a school bus in Blount County.

Alabama State Troopers identified the victim as Gary B. Reid. He lived in Hayden.

The crash happened at 2:55 p.m. Monday on Alabama 160 near Windsong Lane, about four miles east of Hayden, said Senior Trooper Brandon Bailey.

Reid was driving a Toyota Camry when he hit the 2019 Freightliner Thomas school bus driven by 35-year-old Jana R. Short of Blountsville.

After the initial impact, Bailey said, Reids car left the road and struck an embankment. Reid, who was not using his seat belt, was pronounced dead on the scene.

There were students on the bus at the time of the crash, but they were not injured.
A Columbiana city council member was arrested Tuesday morning in Calera.

Vickie Mizzell, who represents the citys Ward 2, is charged with filing a false report with law enforcement, Calera police Chief David Hyche confirmed.

Under Alabama state law, a person commits the crime of false reporting to law enforcement authorities if he or she knowingly makes a false report or causes the transmission of a false report to law enforcement authorities of a crime or relating to a crime.

The crime is a Class A misdemeanor.

Hyche said he couldnt disclose the allegations against Mizzell. The alleged crime reportedly took place during another criminal investigation.

Mizzell declined comment except to say, Im still totally confused about it.

Mizzell has been a council member since 2020. She formerly served as the chief magistrate in Shelby County.
A 23-year-old Decatur woman has been charged with torture and willful abuse of a child after being reported by a school employee.

Decatur police said Milaya Orr, 23, is being held in the Morgan County Jail on $15,000 bond.

On Monday, a Decatur school employee notified a school resource officer that a child had visible bruises and abusive markings consistent with physical abuse, according to police.

Decatur police family services detectives and Morgan County Department of Human Resources caseworkers began an investigation, resulting in Orrs arrest.

Police are continuing the investigation.
Boys born to people who contracted COVID-19 while pregnant may be twice as likely to be diagnosed with a delay in brain development, according to a new study.

Researchers analyzed the health records of more than 18,000 infants delivered after February 2020 at eight hospitals in Massachusetts, and compared them to the records of babies born pre-pandemic.

They found that males  but not females  born to mothers who had a positive COVID test during pregnancy were more likely to be diagnosed in the first year of life with a neurodevelopmental disorder, such as an intellectual disability or a delay in speech, language or motor function.

If a mom had SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnancy and had a male child, her 12-month-old was 94% more likely to have any neurodevelopmental diagnosis, Dr. Andrea Edlow, co-lead author of the study and a maternal-fetal medicine specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital, told NPR.

The new study adds to a large body of research that has found links between people who contract an infection while pregnant and their infants increased risk of developing neurodevelopmental disorders like autism spectrum disorder and schizophrenia. For example, a 2015 Swedish study of 2.3 million births found a 30% increase in risk for autism spectrum disorder among mothers who had been hospitalized for an infection during pregnancy.

The danger to the fetus isnt from coronavirus itself; viruses rarely pass from a pregnant person to a developing fetus. Rather, the risk to the fetus comes from an infected pregnant persons immune system response.

When a person contracts a virus, the body works to fight it off by producing proteins to regulate the immune system. But in a pregnant person, those proteins can cross into the placenta surrounding the fetus and cause inflammation in the fetus brain.

Its a risk that disproportionately affects male infants whose mothers were infected with the virus that causes COVID-19, said Edlow in a statement.

This is because male fetuses are more vulnerable to adverse exposures in utero, a finding from previous research thats also backed up by this new study, she said.

Its too soon to definitively link maternal COVID exposure with a childs diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder or other neurodevelopmental disorder. The studys authors say more research is needed to better understand possible links.

Ultimately, co-lead author and psychiatrist Dr. Roy Perlis told NPR, Most children of moms who have COVID during pregnancy wont have neurodevelopmental consequences even if there is some increase in risk.
Foreign Minister Park Jin, fourth from left, poses with envoys from the Indo-Pacific region during a briefing announcing the details of Korea's new Indo-Pacific Strategy at the ministry headquarters in central Seoul in this Dec. 28, 2022 file photo. Yonhap



President Yoon Suk Yeol will host a summit with leaders from Pacific island nations in May to discuss ways to expand cooperation between Korea and the region, his office said Tuesday.



The inaugural Korea-Pacific Islands Summit will be held in Seoul from May 29-30 with the participation of leaders from all 18 members of the Pacific Islands Forum, an intergovernmental body aimed at enhancing cooperation among island countries in the region.



The 18 are Papua New Guinea, Fiji, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Solomon Islands, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, Tonga, Palau, Niue, Nauru, Kiribati, the Federated States of Micronesia, Samoa, the Cook Islands, Australia, New Zealand, French Polynesia and New Caledonia.



The gathering will be the first multilateral summit to be hosted by Korea since the launch of the Yoon administration last May.



On the first day, the leaders will hold the summit and attend an official dinner hosted by Yoon and first lady Kim Keon Hee.



On the second day, they will travel to the southeastern city of Busan to participate in various side events.



Separately, the first lady will host programs for leaders' spouses.



"The upcoming summit will signal the start of the full-scale implementation of our government's Indo-Pacific Strategy by region, by upgrading to the highest level our consultation mechanism with Pacific island nations, whose strategic importance is growing, and by expanding cooperation based on actual demand from the Pacific island states," the presidential office said.



"We also expect it to elevate our diplomatic status as we contribute to resolving the issues faced by Pacific island nations, such as climate change, disaster response and regional development, and pursue joint prosperity, and serve as an opportunity to strengthen the international community's support for our bid to host the 2030 World Expo in Busan," it added. (Yonhap)


Missile destroyer Suzhou of the Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy returns to a military port in Zhoushan, China's eastern province of Zhejiang, Nov. 15, 2022. Xinhua-Yonhap



Beijing conducts major naval drill in West Sea



By Lee Hyo-jin



China held a major naval drill in the West Sea, Tuesday, in an apparent protest over strengthened security cooperation between South Korea, the United States and Japan which was displayed by a trilateral missile defense exercise carried out the previous day.



According to Chinese media, China's Maritime Safety Administration on Monday uploaded an announcement on its website that a major military exercise would take place in in its eastern waters from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. (local time) the next day. It also warned that civilian vessels would be banned from entering the designated area in the waters off Shandong Province during the exercise, without providing further details.



Local analysts saw the naval drill, which came just a day after the combined exercise between Seoul, Washington and Tokyo, as highlighting Beijing's deepening skepticism over the trilateral military cooperation.



On Monday, the three allies staged a missile defense exercise in international waters between South Korea and Japan, mobilizing three Aegis-equipped destroyers  ROKS Yulgok Yi I, USS Benfold and JS Atago  to enhance readiness against North Korean missile threats.



"Although it is not the first time China has carried out a military exercise in the West Sea, the fact that it publicly announced the drills beforehand seems to be influenced by the trilateral exercise that took place the previous day," said Shin Jong-woo, a senior analyst at the Korea Defense and Security Forum.



"As South Korea, the U.S. and Japan step up military partnerships to respond to North Korea's provocation, China and Russia are also showing corresponding actions in the form of military drills," he added, mentioning that Russia's reconnaissance aircraft IL-20 flew over waters to the east of the Korean Peninsula on April 14, the same day U.S. B-52 strategic bombers were deployed there in a joint aerial exercise with South Korea and Japan.





South Korean Navy's destroyer ROKS Yulgok Yi I, the U.S. Navy's destroyer USS Benfold and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force destroyer JS Atago take part in a joint naval missile defense exercise in international waters between Korea and Japan, Monday. Courtesy of Ministry of Defense










English News China releases paper on its position on Afghan issue

Alwihda Info | Par peoplesdaily - 14 Avril 2023



Adhering to the "Three Respects" and "Three Nevers". China respects the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Afghanistan, respects the independent choices made by the Afghan people, and respects the religious beliefs and national customs of Afghanistan. China never interferes in Afghanistan's internal affairs, never seeks selfish interests in Afghanistan, and never pursues so-called sphere of influence.

Source: Peoples Daily A report from People's Daily: The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a paper stating China's position on the Afghan issue on April 12. The following is the full text:



China's Position on the Afghan Issue



China and Afghanistan are close neighbors with longstanding friendship between the two peoples. Under the current situation, China's position on the Afghan issue is as follows:



1.Adhering to the "Three Respects" and "Three Nevers". China respects the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Afghanistan, respects the independent choices made by the Afghan people, and respects the religious beliefs and national customs of Afghanistan. China never interferes in Afghanistan's internal affairs, never seeks selfish interests in Afghanistan, and never pursues so-called sphere of influence.



2.Supporting moderate and prudent governance in Afghanistan. China sincerely hopes that Afghanistan could build an open and inclusive political structure, adopt moderate and prudent domestic and foreign policies, and engage in friendly exchanges with all countries especially neighboring countries. We hope the Afghan Interim Government will protect the basic rights and interests of all Afghan people, including women, children and all ethnic groups, and continue working actively to meet Afghan people's interests and the international community's expectations.



3.Supporting peace and reconstruction of Afghanistan. China will continue to do its best to help Afghanistan with reconstruction and development, make plans with Afghanistan and fulfill its assistance pledges, promote steady progress in economic, trade and investment cooperation, and actively carry out cooperation in such fields as medical care, poverty alleviation, agriculture, and disaster prevention and mitigation, so as to help Afghanistan realize independent and sustainable development at an early date. China welcomes Afghanistan's participation in Belt and Road cooperation and supports Afghanistan's integration into regional economic cooperation and connectivity that will transform Afghanistan from a "land-locked country" to a "land-linked country".



4.Supporting Afghanistan in countering terrorism resolutely and forcefully. Security is the foundation and prerequisite of development. The East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM) is a terrorist organization listed by the UN Security Council and designated by the Chinese government in accordance with law. The ETIM forces in Afghanistan pose a severe threat to the security of China, Afghanistan and the region. China hopes that Afghanistan will fulfill its commitment in earnest and take more effective measures to crack down on all terrorist forces including the ETIM with greater determination, and earnestly ensure the safety and security of citizens, institutions and projects of China and other countries in Afghanistan.



5.Calling for greater bilateral and multilateral counter-terrorism cooperation. As Afghanistan faces pronounced terrorism-related security issues, it is necessary for the international community to strengthen counter-terrorism security cooperation at both bilateral and multilateral levels and provide Afghanistan with much-needed supplies, equipment and technical assistance. Afghanistan should be supported in taking comprehensive measures to address both the symptoms and root causes of terrorism and prevent the country from again becoming a safe haven, breeding ground and source of terrorism.



6.Working together to fight terrorism, separatism and extremism in Afghanistan. Terrorism, separatism and extremism in Afghanistan remain a major security threat to the region and the world. China calls on the international community to firmly support Afghanistan's fight against terrorism, separatism and extremism and its active measures to cut off the channels of terrorist financing, to counter recruitment and cross-border movement of terrorists and the spread of violent terrorist audio and video materials, to contain extremism, youth radicalization and the spread of terrorist ideologies, and to eliminate sleeper cells and terrorist safe havens.



7.Urging the US to live up to its commitments and responsibilities to Afghanistan. It is a widely-held view in the international community that, by seizing Afghanistan's overseas assets and imposing unilateral sanctions, the US, which created the Afghan issue in the first place, is the biggest external factor that hinders substantive improvement in the humanitarian situation in Afghanistan. The US should draw lessons from what happened in Afghanistan, face squarely the grave humanitarian, economic and security risks and challenges in Afghanistan, immediately lift its sanctions, return the Afghan overseas assets, and deliver its pledged humanitarian aid to meet the emergency needs of the Afghan people.



8.Opposing external interference and infiltration in Afghanistan. It is a shared view of regional countries that the military interference and "democratic transformation" by external forces in Afghanistan over the past 20-odd years have inflicted enormous losses and pain on Afghanistan. It will be difficult to eliminate the negative impacts for many years to come. To help Afghanistan achieve sustained peace and stability, relevant countries should not attempt to re-deploy military facilities in Afghanistan and its neighbourhood, practice double standards on counter-terrorism, or advance their geopolitical agenda by supporting or conniving at terrorism.



9.Strengthening international and regional coordination on the Afghan issue. Under the new circumstances, Afghanistan should be a platform for cooperation among various parties rather than geopolitical games. China supports all plans and measures that are conducive to political settlement of the Afghan issue, and will actively engage in multilateral coordination through such mechanisms and platforms as the Foreign Ministers' Meeting on the Afghan Issue among the Neighboring Countries of Afghanistan, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO)-Afghanistan Contact Group, the Moscow Format Consultations on Afghanistan, the China-Afghanistan-Pakistan Trilateral Foreign Ministers' Dialogue, the Informal Meeting of China-Russia-Pakistan-Iran Foreign Ministers on Afghanistan, the Troika Plus Meeting and the United Nations, in an effort to build consensus and synergy for stability in and assistance to Afghanistan at regional and international levels.



10.Facilitating solution to Afghanistan's humanitarian and refugee issues. China is concerned about the situation of Afghan refugees and will continue to provide assistance through bilateral and multilateral channels. China supports relevant UN agencies in playing a positive role in this regard, applauds the efforts by regional countries, and calls on the international community to provide continuous humanitarian and development assistance to jointly help Afghanistan rebuild its economy and create favorable conditions for the final settlement of the refugee issue.



11.Supporting Afghanistan's fight against narcotics. China looks forward to and supports more concrete actions by Afghanistan to counter narcotics cultivation, production and illicit trafficking, and will work with the international community to help Afghanistan with alternative development and crackdown on cross-border drug-related crimes, so as to eliminate the source of narcotics in the region.



Dans la meme rubrique : < > Chinese young blood devote to Great Wall protection International passenger service adds new vitality to China-Laos Railway Democracy a common value of humanity, not prerogative reserved to few Pour toute information, contactez-nous au : +(235) 99267667 ; 62883277 ; 66267667 (Bureau N'Djamena)
Barack Obama was a bad president, but Biden is even worse, writes Christopher Roach at American Greatness.

Let's face it, as America's First Black President, Barack Obama had the opportunity of the ages to put racial animosity to bed, and start a new age of comity. But he didn't.

Optimism surrounded his election, and even many opponents were hopeful that his victory would demonstrate to both white and black Americans that extreme racial tensions were a thing of the past and no longer a consuming national problem

But no.

[Obama] never hesitated to criticize white Americans in general and race relations were noticeably worse at the end of his term than they were at the beginning of it.

Then there's Biden:

Unimaginably, Joe Biden is a worse president than Barack Obama, a complete phony and a disaster in every way possible, as is the deep state that controls much of his agenda.

Why? Why didn't Obama make himself the Hope of the ages and Change racial animosity? Why has the "moderate" Biden supercharged the woke agenda from climate change to systemic racism?

My analysis comes down to two reasons.

First, in politics you must have an enemy. Otherwise, government has nothing to do.

Second, in politics you never admit you are wrong and you Made Things Worse. You always blame the enemy. See Reason One, above.

Let's apply Reason One to Obama and the race question. Why didn't Obama bury the hatchet? It's simple. Ever since Marx, our educated rulers have practiced an over/under political formula, where the ruling educated class rules as the Ally of the Oppressed in a war against the enemy oppressors. If the working class are no longer the oppressed du jour, then blacks must be defended against racists, women against sexists, gays against homophobes, and now transgenders against the mighty armies of J.K. Rowling. Otherwise, what's the point of politics for Barack?

Let's apply Reason Two to Biden and "worse." I say that just about everything that the educated ruling class has imposed upon the human race for the last century has Made Things Worse. Pay-as-you-go Pensions? The government's Social Security is going broke. Health care? Government has given it away for free to some people and made it insanely expensive for others. Welfare? Free government money has demolished the low-income family so that the men don't work much and the women don't marry much. Education? Education is now just about teachers getting paid to do nothing and contribute to Democrat campaigns. But free stuff!

Let's just assume that my analysis is right, that politics needs an enemy and that our modern government-centered pensions, healthcare and education have Made Things Worse. Would any woke progressive ever admit it? Not a bit of it. Transgenders are victims, period. If Social Security is in trouble it must be because of Evil Republicans that want to cut it. If health care is in trouble it must be because of greedy drug companies. If education is failing to educate black kids, it must be because of systemic racism.

And I don't mean that the progressives are being cynical and blaming Republicans. I mean that their saving faith tells them that they cannot be wrong and that their failures must all be the fault of the racist-sexist-homophobes on the far right.

Our modern educated ruling class can never be wrong. So they always find an enemy and blame them for the disaster issuing from the ruling-class policies.

Let's review the history of such disasters.

After the French Revolution with bread prices in the stratosphere the solution was to blame les aristos and guillotine them.

After the Bolshevik Revolution and failed Five Year Plans, the solution was to blame the kulaks for the lack of food, and "saboteurs and wreckers" for the failed industrial experiment, and then execute all the second-tier Soviet officials.

After the Maoist Revolution in 1949 Mao ran the Campaign to Suppress Counter-Revolutionaries in 1950, the Thought Reform Campaign against intellectuals and then the Loyalty and Honesty Campaign in 1951, the Anti-Rightist Campaign in 1957, then the failed Great Leap Forward and subsequent Great Chinese Famine, and finally the Great Proletarian Cultural Revolution of 1966-76, which started with the purging of top university officials in China -- usually with students beating them to death. After defeating all his enemies, Mao finally went to his well-deserved rest in 1976.

Hey, you DEI administrators! Suppose that Next President Hunter Biden needs to blame someone for the utter failure of U.S. education and sics all the woke trans kiddies on you, for a change? Think it couldn't happen? I'm sure that all the university presidents in China in 1965 thought the same thing.

Okay. So now we know why Obama was bad and Biden is worse.

Mirror, mirror, on the wall, who is the fairest of them all? No contest: it's Mao ZeDong.

Christopher Chantrill @chrischantrill runs the go-to site on US government finances, usgovernmentspending.com. Also get his American Manifesto and his Road to the Middle Class.

Image: National Archives
I reported previously how the left wing of the Democrat Party, including Joe Biden, Barack Obama, and Kamala Harris, came out in support of a disruptive display by three anti-Second Amendment lawmakers in the Tennessee Legislature. The Democrat Left's support for what it calls freedom of expression does not however extend to swimmer Riley Gaines, who was shouted down, terrorized, and allegedly assaulted at San Francisco State University for saying that men like Lia Thomas should not be allowed to compete against women or use the women's locker room. The President of SFSU refused to condemn these credibly alleged violent crimes on her campus.

The Democrat Left and Black Lives Matter

I also reported that, after a hiatus that may have been due (my inference, not a statement of fact) to questions about Black Lives Matter Global Network's use of 501(c)(3) tax exempt money to campaign against Donald Trump in 2020, ActBlue Charities has apparently renewed its relationship with BLM. The Democrat National Committee's website also linked to the BLM movement in 2020, and these sites linked in turn to extremist sites that called for boycotts against and even the destruction of Israel. This puts the Democrat party squarely into the camp that condones or even, in some cases, incites behavior that has no place in a civilized nation like the United States.

BLM Glorifies a Jew-Killing Terrorist. Here is BLM Chicago honoring Rasmea Odeh and also supporting the so-called Palestinian right of return, whose agenda is to overwhelm and destroy Israel demographically. The national BLM organization, as represented by Patrisse Cullors, called not only for the destruction of Israel but also for support for Odeh. Odeh was convicted of murdering two Jews with a bomb and trying to murder emergency responders, but the Israelis disarmed the second bomb in time. Note how, in contrast to thugs at San Francisco State University being permitted to shout down, threaten, and allegedly assault swimmer Riley Gaines, Israel's supporters and Republicans did not invade BLM Chicago's event to shout down, much less assault, a convicted murderess who is no better than church shooter Dylann Roof, supermarket shooter Payton Gendron, and Oklahoma City bomber Timothy McVeigh. BLM Glorifies Cop-Killing Terrorists. BLM thanked Fidel Castro, whom BLM says should "rest in power," for giving refuge to Joanne Chesimard, whom BLM calls "Mama Assata Shakur." BLM has also referred to fugitive Charles Hill as "brother." Chesimard was convicted of executing a New Jersey State Trooper and Hill (allegedly until proven guilty) murdered a New Mexico law enforcement professional, menaced a flight attendant with a weapon, and hijacked an airplane to Cuba. BLM has also referred to Hill's alleged accomplices as "brothers." Ann Dorn, the widow of murdered police captain David Dorn whose Black life obviously did not matter to the BLM thug who killed him, said of this movement. "If a foreign organization were tied to nationwide rioting in the U.S., wed probably call it a terrorist organization." In addition, "A coalition of left-wing racial justice groups that includes the Black Lives Matter national organization has launched an initiative calling for the abolition of the U.S. prison system and the release of all prisoners, including multiple convicted cop killers."

If an organization (and even the Ku Klux Klan has yet to step over this line as far as I know) talked about "brothers" Dylann Roof and Payton Gendron, it would be obvious that that organization agrees that people should be murdered for praying or shopping while Black. When BLM supports Rasmea Odeh, calls Joanne Chesimard "Mama Assata," refers to Charles Hill and his alleged accomplices as "brothers," and demands the release of convicted cop killers, we can opine reasonably that BLM condones similarly the murder of Jews and law enforcement professionalsand the Democrat party as represented by ActBlue Charities has renewed its support of BLM. BLM Glorifies Fidel Castro. Did I mention that BLM said Fidel Castro should rest in power, and also that Barack Obama offered condolences for Castro's death? Here is what BLM is praising and on what Obama is morally ambivalent: "Over six decades, millions of Cubans were forced to flee their own country, and those accused of opposing the regime were routinely jailed and even killed. And one thing is clear, history will not absolve Fidel Castro; it will remember him as an evil, murderous dictator who inflicted misery and suffering on his own people." This, American voters, is what Black Lives Matter supportsand the Democrat Left supports Black Lives Matter. BLM Meets the Definition of an Anti-Semitic Hate Group. Disagreement with the government of Israel, which the Israelis themselves do as shown very recently, is not anti-Semitic. The International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA), and even the left-leaning Anti-Defamation League (ADL), however, both define denial of the right of Israel to exist (or, in IHRA's case, denial of the right of the Jewish people to self-determination) as anti-Semitic. BLM, as represented by Patrisse Cullors, rather than some rank and file loose cannon, called for the dismantling of Israel. ADL has also defined the BDS movement as anti-Semitic and BLM supports BDS. The Zachor Legal Institute has meanwhile alleged BLM ties with "domestic terror affiliates" of foreign terrorist organizations and the Zionist Organization of America has more information on BLM's anti-Semitic activities. BLM Encourages Looting. Here's a BLM organizer (again, not some rank and file loose cannon) who depicts looting as "reparations." Then BLM cries "racism" when those who act on this incitement, including Caucasian "allies," get life-ruining felony records or even get shot when theft escalates to robbery, as it can easily do if the looters threaten the property owners with violence, as Michael Brown did prior to his fatal encounter with a police officer.

Who Supports Black Lives Matter?

Now let's look at who supports this organization, which supports in turn cop killers, Jew killers, vandals, rioters, looters, and a dictator who murdered countless Cubans.

Joe Biden's team met with BLM's leaders in 2021, when this behavior by BLM was well known. Even though BLM was not happy with the outcome, Biden's representatives should not have associated with them.

Kamala Harris praised the "brilliance" of Black Lives Matter.

Cornell's expensive Law School, as represented by then-Dean Eduardo Penalver, went on record as supporting BLM under color of "racial justice." Cornell's President and Trustees have yet to take corrective action for this use of a Cornell web page to disparage a member of its faculty and put the school into the camp of something that meets the ADL and IHRA definitions of an anti-Semitic hate group. State University of New York Buffalo's Law School in-state tuition is roughly a third of Cornell's and you'll probably learn more law, rather than leftist ideology, there as well.

Hardin-Simmons University, as represented by President Eric Bruntmyer, also lined up with BLM.

Solid Blue New York City renamed a street for Black Lives Matter.

Democrat Left-infested unions like the Seattle Education Association and PSC-CUNY have joined the anti-Semitic boycott, divestment, and sanctions (BDS) movement so it is clear that Jews are not welcome in these unions. Nor do law enforcement professionals, Cuban-Americans, or property owners of all races who don't want their cars, homes, and stores wrecked in BLM loot-a-thons have a home in today's Democrat party. Use your head and vote Red in 2024.

Civis Americanus is the pen name of a contributor who remembers the lessons of history, and wants to ensure that our country never needs to learn those lessons again the hard way. He or she is remaining anonymous due to the likely prospect of being subjected to "cancel culture" for exposing the Big Lie behind Black Lives Matter.
On the tsunami of wokeism, our government, private corporations, academic institutions, and other organizations are doling out significant rewards and preferences to individuals and groups of individuals based on color, race, gender, and other select characteristics. For ease of reference, I have previously assigned the shorthand term of Blue to any candidate determined by the woke calculus of victim variables to be deserving of a given privilege. Now, despite the growing evidence that affirmative action itself has backfired, and contrary to Martin Luther Kings admonition that people be judged on the basis of character versus skin color, we are moving ever more significantly in the wrong direction.

Scholarships, jobs, loans, medical care, recognition awards, airtime and much more are now being awarded to Blue candidates. This could be a biological male athlete who now identifies and competes as a female, a student with below average GPA and test scores who qualifies for a scholarship by virtue of being first generation, a farmer receiving a subsidy or loan on the basis of being a person of color, one of the California residents deemed deserving of some $640b for sins of generations past; a patient being prioritized to receive healthcare on the basis of belonging to a certain racial group, a candidate given special consideration by the president for the open position of Supreme Court Justice on the basis of being black and female, and a growing number of other examples. As Blue benefits grow in size and frequency, it stands to reason that the definitions and qualifications for being Blue will become more significant and receive greater scrutiny.

One of the pesky issues involved in answering the question of Who is Blue? pertains to who gets to write the rules. Afterall, Blueness is not a scientific or legal definition. In fact, it often flies in the face of both science and the law. Scientifically speaking, it is not possible to switch ones gender. And Title VII and other discrimination laws prohibit most rewards provided on the basis of race.

Right now, the Left and its media sycophants are writing the rules and bullying everyone else into going along with them. For example, one rule is that it is acceptable, even laudable for a person to identify as a gender other than the one with which he is born. Another is that it is not acceptable for a person to identify as a race other than the one with which he is born. Thus, Lia Thomas and Dylan Mulvaney are brave champions to be celebrated, while Rachel Dolezal should be scorned. There are exceptions of course. If you are an influential pillar of the Left  say, like Elizabeth Warren  then you will be forgiven for assuming minority racial status with less than 1/1,000th representation in your DNA. Another rule is that it is perfectly appropriate to detain and separate from his family a U.S. citizen who breaks our laws. (Try getting arrested and see how long you remain with your family.) But an illegal immigrant who breaks our laws and is detained and separated from his family may be entitled to as much as $450k from our government.

Of course, there are also a host of rules about which pronouns are appropriate or even demanded for various people depending on what is in their respective heads. At this stage, rules for appropriate adjectives appear to have escaped such requirements.

Aside from who gets to hold the mantle of Blue rule arbiters, another challenging issue is emerging. That issue pertains to how long people will adhere to, and how strictly they will adhere to the given Blue rules. Wokeism is dependent upon the bulk of society essentially playing by the Marquess of Queensbury rules in this regard, while separate rules are extended to select candidates.

Wokeism depends on their opponents being decent and honest, but malleable folks who will allow themselves to continue to be taken advantage of  perhaps shake their heads at the Blue rule du jour, comply, and go back to work. Thus, the racism, sexism, and other biases continue and expand.

But what happens when fair-minded folks realize that increasingly, they are the victims being exploited by the expanding labyrinth of Blue rules and ranks of undeserving prize recipients? When enough people decide that the shark has finally been jumped  enough children have been exposed to drag queens in thongs, enough teenagers regret having their bodies surgically changed to a different gender, enough unqualified candidates have beaten out more qualified candidates for admission, scholarships, and jobs, enough female athletes have been denied the opportunity to compete on a fair playing field, enough Silicon Valley Banks have been bankrupted by harmful ESG policies, enough Blue candidates realize that supposedly preferential treatment has actually hurt more than helped them, etc.  then the honest, decent people may revolt. Rightly or wrongly, they may stop playing by the senseless rules that get rewritten to the advantage of the Left every 15 minutes. They may launch a New Blue movement.

What would that mean? Consider this thought experiment. What if a large number of the supposed oppressors (Asians, Whites, heterosexuals, Larry Elder and Clarence Thomas) suddenly identify as being Blue? What if a very large percentage of these groups simply check a box on the given application that corresponds to a Blue category or publicly proclaim to be in this category? There is some evidence that this is already happening.

Legally speaking, it is their right to do so for perhaps the two largest Blue categories  gender and race. Only the candidate can determine this; and it is illegal for the interviewer, employer, admissions officer, etc. to counter or even ask the candidate about race, gender, or religion  other than for reporting such stats to the government. Only inclusion in some native American tribes requires an actual DNA or quantum blood test. But historically, fair-minded people have regarded such moves as immoral or unfair. Will that view continue?

An increasing number of Americans may be reconsidering the answer to that question; and that answer could have dramatic consequences for wokeism. Most decent people have no desire to receive an accolade or benefit that they do not deserve; and they certainly do not want to do anything that they believe would be unfair.

Imagine what would happen if all of the negative stigma that the Left wants to hang on anyone not playing by the Blue rules  with charges of immorality and fraud, is replaced by an actual cheering of those who refuse to go along? What if New Blue actions begin to be received with the same reverence that the Left currently applies to transgenderism  seen as brave and heroic, and helpful, not in producing but eliminating unfair outcomes? All of this would effectively mean the end of wokeism  because privileged status is enjoyed by nearly everyone.

As Dr. Victor Davis Hanson bluntly and accurately charges, the woke movement is racist to the core, elitist to the core, and discriminatory to the core. As this evil expands, it is testing the patience of a large population of victims who will undoubtedly begin reconsidering their traditional thoughts on fairness. If it persists, it may well bring about, for better or worse, a New Blue revolution.

Author Greg Salsbury, PhD, was president of Western Colorado University from 2014 to 2020. His 2006 award winning work But What If I Live? predicted the subsequent financial meltdown; and his follow up book Retirementology  Rethinking the American Dream in a New Economy topped Amazons personal finance category. He earned his doctorate from the University of Southern California and received Masters degrees from both the University of Illinois and USCs Annenberg School for Communications. He lives in Colorado and Florida and can be reached at Gairedales@yahoo.com.

Graphic credit: FreeSVG public domain
As Democrats wrassle with what to do with incapacitated Sen. Dianne Feinstein, suddenly the comparably health-challenged Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, is well enough to come back to the office, wearing his shorts and hoodie.

Democrat Senator John Fetterman refuses to take questions as he returns to the Capitol for the first time since mid-February pic.twitter.com/JyTRQ1sIKe  RNC Research (@RNCResearch) April 17, 2023

According to Fox News:

Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., returned to the Senate Monday in a black hoodie and shorts, after a six-week stay in the hospital where he was treated for clinical depression. As the senator entered the Capitol for one of the first times since taking office in January, he refused to take questions from the press. "Its great to be back. Thank you," Fetterman reportedly said as he walked into the building. Fetterman will chair his first subcommittee hearing days after returning from his weeks-long absence

GatewayPundit's Christine Laila had a less charitable take:

Democrat Senator John Fetterman (PA) on Monday returned to Capitol Hill looking disheveled and confused after a prolonged absence during which he received treatment for severe depression. Fetterman, 53, spent two months at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center receiving treatment for clinical depression. The dazed and confused Senator looked like a slob as he arrived to Capitol Hill. This is the same guy who was supposedly sponsoring bills from a psych ward. Its great to be back, Fetterman told reporters at the Capitol.

Based on the pictures, does this look like a guy who's beaten depression? He's not exactly coming to work in triumph, all rested and ready, in his best work clothes ready to work. And yes, based on his Twitter picture, he does have nice suits.

Pennsylvania Democrat Senator, John Fetterman epitomizes today's well-dressed lawmaker! pic.twitter.com/9oId5YQ4Uu  Ron Milner (@RonMilnerBoodle) April 18, 2023

This video of Fetterman is why so many are concerned.https://t.co/YvdQwIZC8i  Sebastian Gorka DrG (@SebGorka) April 18, 2023

His face looks strained and mirthless. His physical gestures look forced and exaggerated. He appears to be someone who remains depressed, given his appearance, which signals he doesn't really care about either himself or the public he should be trying to persuade.

It's kind of sad, actually.

The political backdrop appears to be what's driving this. Right now, Democrats have the long knives out for Sen. Dianne Feinstein, whose incapacitation owing to her advanced age has affected the Senate judiciary committee in its quest to confirm leftist judges. They can't do it while she's missing from the committee, based on the 50-50 tie in the Senate which is reflected in committee representation. That's a crisis for Democrats, who have sought to temporarily replace her, apparently with her consent as a compromise since she refuses to resign. It would all be fine, except that three Republicans have no intention of accommodating them. That puts the heat back onto Feinstein to get the heck out. What's more, the vultures are circling -- Rep. Katie Porter and Rep. Adam Schiff each are laying claim to Feinstein's seat even with her not out of it.

Feinstein is known as "Fetterman West" in Democrat circles, which pretty well tells us where this is going. Fetterman, too, is likely to be under intense pressure to either return to work and appear to be on the job, or get out, same as the matter with Feinstein is going.

And suddenly, Fetterman is "well" and back on the job.

What this sounds like is the same disturbing political activity that Democrats have pulled on Fetterman in the recent past -- that when Fetterman, aged 53, was down with a stroke during the Pennsylvania Senate race last year against GOP candidate Dr. Mehmet Oz, he was asked to rest so that his damaged brain could recover from the devastating health crisis, and instead of doing that, which likely would have meant stepping down from the race, Fetterman campaigned for office, his staff saying all was fine and anyone questioning his ability to do his job was an 'able-ist.' That proved a sad disaster for Fetterman, who later learned that the brain damage he was suffering from as the result of the stroke, was now permanent brain damage, because he didn't follow doctor's orders. That would probably be enough to give anyone depression -- was the quest for power at the price of one's health really worth it? Fetterman, though, seems to have been an ornery type resistant to following medical advice: Prior to getting the stroke, he reportedly wasn't taking his preventative medicine, which might have been why he got the stroke.

So now we see what may be the same pattern all over again. He's obviously debilitated, he's obviously not well, and yet he's suddenly back on the job as if nothing ever happened. Either someone was forcing him into this or he's done it himself, or perhaps both. Whatever the case, it's cruel to see him back on the job before he seems to be really ready. It sounds like another cause for depression. Democrats seem comfortable about just letting him die, then, as he overexerts himself, but that's not how politics is supposed to work in this country. The pressure on Fetterman from Democrats looks positively ghoulish given what he's beem through.

Image: Twitter screen shot
I don't know where you find bigger hypocrites on the world stage than China's communist masters.

Caught red-handed by the FBI running literally an illegal government police station in south Manhattan, they spouted out their umbrage as their miscreants were raided, shut down, and hauled off.

According to the Bangkok Post:

China said on Tuesday that "political manipulation" was behind the arrests of two men the United States accused of setting up an unauthorised Chinese police station in New York. Authorities in the city also charged dozens of Chinese security officials in connection with what they said was a campaign to monitor and harass US-based dissidents. "China firmly opposes the US side's slandering, smearing, engaging in political manipulation, and maliciously concocting the so-called transnational repression narrative," foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin told reporters in Beijing. "We urge the US to immediately reflect on itself, abandon Cold War thinking and ideological biases, immediately stop related erroneous practices, stop political manipulation, and stop smear attacks against China," he added.

Had enough? Well, there's more. Reuters has another official statement:

BEIJING, April 18 (Reuters) - China foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin on Tuesday disputed U.S. claims of a Chinese "secret police station" in New York. China maintains a policy of non-interference in other countries and these alleged police stations do not exist, Wang told a regular news briefing.

Are these jackasses or what? Is there even a hint of truth in anything this shill spouts? You thought Baghdad Bob or Jen Psaki was out of the world of reality; get a load of this guy.

The details are very ugly as regards what these Chicoms, fresh from their balloon incident, where they were caught spying on U.S. military installations, were up to. They set up what were essentially NKVD operations to hunt down Chinese dissidents here on legitimate asylum in the U.S. in order to force them back to the communist hellhole they'd fled, apparently with quite a bit of success in some incidences. This, on top of all the spying they already do in the U.S. through TikTok and other technology, along with all their boosters here trying to implement their social credit system.

According to Safeguard Defenders, which keeps tabs on this slimy secret-police operation:

That's a violation of U.S. sovereignty unlike anything ever seen in the U.S. short of an act of war, an amazingly brazen act that, if left unchecked, would obviously lead to similar goon-style oppression on American citizens  first the Chinese-Americans, and then pretty much anyone in the States.

It's shocking that they've gotten away with this crap since 2016, and apparently have several of these illegal "police stations" still operating in the U.S., and around the world, some of them, as Safeguard Defenders notes, by the permission of the sovereign governments who should know better. Italy, of all places, is one, and like France, its economy is ferociously tied to China's based on its designer clothing industries. In the U.S., every person involved in these operations needs to be in jail.

The hypocrisy of China isn't just present in its laughable denials of any untoward activity, which stinks enough. It's also in the loud and noisy claims to being all in favor of national sovereignty, being great respecters and proponents of it.

Based on this 2019 report from The Diplomat, they have been hypocrites about such claims for a long time:

The foundational doctrine of Chinese foreign policy is a set of guidelines called the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, which then-Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai and Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru proclaimed in April 1954. First among those principles is "mutual respect for each other's territorial integrity and sovereignty." Throughout the history of the People's Republic, safeguarding sovereignty has equated to protecting the Communist regime. For instance, Beijing justified the 1989 massacre of protesters gathered in Tiananmen Square as its sovereign right. As Deng Xiaoping told his fellow Politburo members two days before the crackdown, "Some Western countries use things like 'human rights,' or like saying the socialist system is irrational or illegal, to criticize us, but what they're really after is our sovereignty." More recently, Beijing has cited sovereign rights to counter criticism of its internment of an estimated one million Uyghurs. China similarly levied a sovereignty-focused critique of post-Cold War U.S. foreign policy, opposing democracy promotion and all but the narrowest forms of humanitarian intervention. China's emphasis on sovereignty extends to the cyber domain, where Beijing's official strategy for cooperation in cyberspace calls for "international cyberspace order on the basis of state sovereignty." Chinese President Xi Jinping, who has steered China on a more assertive course, reaffirmed in a 2014 speech marking the 60th anniversary of the Five Principles that "[s]overeignty is the most important feature of any independent state as well as the embodiment and safeguard of its national interests."

Now they've stepped things up with spy balloons and now police stations, proving quite persuasively that they are a predator-state, not a respecter of anyone's sovereignty other than their own and not even that, given their destruction of Chinese heritage and the Chinese family  just the sovereignty of their own power.

While the raid in the States by the FBI was welcome and necessary, it's sad that in the U.S., we are stuck with Joe Biden, a fraudulently elected president who appears to have been compromised by China in his family's corrupt business dealings. The Chicoms would know all about that and know that Joe's compromised. That may be at the root of why they are stepping up their brazenly intrusive activity in the U.S. and blandly denying that anything is amiss. Everyone can see what's going on here: a sleazy, lying, shameless superpower with global ambitions that, like any bully, acts wounded and whimpery when it gets a punch in the nose.

Let's see more of this  starting with the busts and shut-downs of every last illegal police station in the States, the mass expulsion of Chicom diplomats involved, and other means of punishment. The U.S. should be first to hold hypocritical China up to global scorn.

Image: Screen shot from ABC News video via YouTube.
Presidential politics is a roller coaster ride. Some politicians  Richard Nixon was one  uselessly plot to "peak at the right moment," but events usually dictate their own schedule. You may recall George H.W. Bush, after the First Gulf War, was at something like an 89% approval rating in 1991. Yet by November 1992, he lost out to a scandal-plagued small-state governor.

Last December, after taking much of the blame for the GOP's disappointing midterms, Donald Trump was passed up by Ron DeSantis in many polls and the betting odds. His campaign was also running short on cash.

But then he caught a lucky break. An indictment. For any other politician this would be fatal. For Donald Trump, who everyone should know by now is just unique, it was the best thing that could happen. With Alvin Bragg's ridiculous case against him, there was an enormous sympathy backlash. Trump sprinted out to a big primary lead the last two months, and now he beats Biden in the latest national polls. There was a significant pickup in fundraising as well.

But the roller coaster may already be headed back down. Don Trump, Jr. put the campaign in an odd place by opposing the Budweiser boycott. The Mulvaney/Bud Light kerfuffle has been a great little triumph in the culture wars, and is right in DeSantis's wheelhouse of fighting the whole "trans" agenda. Trump and his people, though, are obviously not comfortable working this territory.

Trump is also spending a lot of money attacking DeSantis on Social Security, from the liberal side  something DeSantis is finally pushing back on. While he's at it, he might ask Trump, and Biden, for that matter, with Social Security broke and mandatory cuts coming in ten years, what's your plan?

At this point, there's no reason for DeSantis to change his timetable for an early summer official campaign launch. Trump pulled ahead, but no other challenger has made any impact. The field is clear for a head-to-head primary battle.

A lot of media people who have never worked on any campaigns imagine that DeSantis is still somehow making up his mind. The NYT's Ross Douthat is only the worst. In reality, DeSantis was putting together his 2024 presidential race from his earliest days in Congress. That's how these things have to work.

Likewise, of course, Biden is running. He has not announced, because his handlers don't want him on the campaign trail at all. His organization is doing a great job of freezing out any Democrat challengers. He can wait until this summer, when the news will all be about Trump vs. DeSantis. Biden will leave the media to cover the GOP fight for months on end, while he hides out in the basement, just like last time.

Rather than coasting on his early lead, Trump should be preparing for a new challenge, one unlike anything he has faced before: a well-funded opponent running to his right.

DeSantis has already signaled he will attack Trump as a loser and will cite polls showing him the stronger candidate to tackle Biden. He will also make Tony Fauci exhibit #1, saying Trump should have fired Fauci instead of praising him.

Expect lots of commercials showing Fauci lying about masks, vaccines, and the origins of COVID, in contrast to the governor of Florida wisely opening up his state in early 2020.

If I were DeSantis, this sort of attack would be augmented with other examples of Trump being suckered by grifters. Steve Bannon beat the rap in the Build-the-Wall scam only because Trump pardoned him, while his co-defendants are now going to serve time. Highlighting this episode would take Trump's best issue, his willingness to be tough on the border, and turn it against him, because he was misled by con artists.

Likewise, whatever the irregularities that occurred in 2020, there's no doubt that Sidney Powell proved to be an utter fabulist. Trump spent a lot more time entertaining her kooky ideas than he should have. TV commercials showing her to be an utter dolt, along with anyone who fell for her act, will play well in the first GOP contests in Iowa and New Hampshire.

In any event, this campaign won't really start until the first GOP debate in August. Back in 2015, Trump found the media environment, from Fox News to most of the MSM, very friendly because he drew good ratings. Meanwhile, his primary opponents mostly squabbled among themselves and wasted their campaign cash. The 2024 campaign, in contrast, is going to be a long, nasty slog. Trump will need many more lucky breaks to win, but then again, Dame Fortune has been his steady girlfriend.

Frank Friday is an attorney in Louisville, Ky.

Image: Gage Skidmore via Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0.
Recently released documents showed that the FBI is now associating common internet slang with "Violent Extremism." The Heritage Foundation's Oversight Project used a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to obtain the documents that include glossaries illustrating that certain words and phrases have been flagged as indicators of "Involuntary Celibate Violent Extremism" or "Racially or Ethnically Motivated Violent Extremism."

One document refers specifically to "incels," or those "involuntary celibate," whom the "threat overview" describes as possibly seeking to "commit violence in support of their beliefs that society unjustly denies them sexual or romantic attention, to which they believe they are entitled." The assessment admits that "most incels do not engage in violence" but adds that they have been involved in "at least five lethal attacks in the United States and Canada." (You'd be a little on edge, too, if you weren't getting any. Just kidding.)

The list of problematic terms includes "based," which the FBI characterizes as a word used to "refer to someone who has been converted to racist ideology, or as a way of indicating ideological agreement." "Based" was coined by the rapper Lil B and is typically used to refer to something that is "agreeable" and "cool," or "anti-woke."

"LARPing," a term I've never encountered before, also made the list. It refers to people engaged in live-action roleplay, particularly as characters in high-fantasy settings.

"Looksmaxxing," which the documents defined as the "process of self-improvement with the intent to become more attractive," was on the list as well. Conversely, several terms connected to self-pity adorn the list, among them "heightcel" and "baldcel," which apparently refer to short people and bald people, respectively. "It's over," often used to convey "the hopelessness of being an incel," will also attract the attention of The Bureau.

But wait, there's more.

The glossary defines the term "Chad" as a "Race-specific term used to describe the idealized version of a male, who is very successful at getting sexual and romantic attention from women."

"Stacy"  Chad's counterpart  has also been smeared by the FBI and is defined as an "idealized version of a female, who is very successful at gaining sexual and romantic attention from men. Chooses Chad over incels." She chooses Chad over incels? What a b----! Actually, Stacy is probably just pragmatic.

And, of course, "Red Pill" made the cut, too. The term became popular after it was instrumental to the 1999 movie The Matrix and refers to a process by which a person's perspective is dramatically transformed. The FBI defines it as "a belief shared by many online communities that society is corrupt, and that the believer is a victim of this corruption."

In truth, the movie presents the red pill as the pathway to discovering the truth behind the lies that our rulers are telling us, thereby affording us the opportunity to escape the mental prison in which their prevarication seeks to place us...permanently.

On the other hand, to take the blue pill is to choose a life of ignorance, a refusal to shatter the oddly comfortable illusion in which one is living.

Democrats desperately want us all to keep taking the blue pills...so that they can retain and enhance their power.

But the red pill is the only way forward if a society wishes to retain, enhance, or regain its freedoms.

* * *

(Bonus writing for FBI perusal: "In my opinion, based on what I've observed, Chad and Stacey have been engaging in looksmaxxing. Chad is fighting baldcel and heightcel, and Stacey has apparently been red-pilled. Their LARPing looks increasingly strained and mirthless. In short, I think it's over.")
With the glaring and brave exception of J.K. Rowling, the people involved with the Harry Potter franchise appear to have an extreme fetish for "transitioning" children.

The entirety of the popular culture machine in the West, of course, is fully inundated with gender ideology, but the Harry Potter people take it to level 12.

Daniel Radcliffe, the actor who portrayed Harry Potter, recently hosted a cringe series called Sharing Space (the woke left being rhetorically obsessed with "space" and who "shares" it), facilitated by the child-transition advocacy organization the Trevor Project.

Via The Times (U.K.):

Daniel Radcliffe, the Harry Potter actor, has said that children should be trusted to transition from one gender to another if they wish. The actor said that it was "condescending" for adults to question whether such a life-changing decision was in a child's best interests. Radcliffe appeared to support gender transition for young people of any age, while hosting a group discussion for an American LGBT charity, the Trevor Project. In the half-hour conversation, which has been viewed almost 100,000 times on YouTube, Radcliffe asked six young people about their experiences of identifying as transgender and non-binary. When Daley, a participant who was born male but identifies as female, insisted that it was possible for an 11-year-old to decide to change gender, Radcliffe said: "But there are also people who do have a slightly condescending but well-meaning attitude of like, 'Well, people are young and like . . . you know, that is a huge decision'. I'd love to hear from all of you about, like, why we can trust kids to tell us who they are."

The gist of the trans propaganda hour here is that parents prevent children from transitioning (dovetailing with the ongoing corporate media project to undermine parental rights).

The Trevor Project (T.P.) markets itself as an innocent "nonprofit" foundation in the service of promoting human rights. In reality, it's the premier LGBTQ+++ propaganda machine in the West, and it's swimming in cash.

Via 11th Hour Blog:

With $35 million (pdf) a year in funding, the TP's size and scale enable them to engage in a weapons-grade propaganda campaign against vulnerable children and young adults. Their arsenal includes 24/7 chat services with an army of counselors trained in TP's gender ideology via text (TrevorText), phone chat (TrevorChat), and a peer-to-peer forum called TrevorSpace that allows vulnerable kids as young as 13 to engage directly with other kids suffering a crisis of identity around their sexed bodies, and more disturbingly, with adults up-to (and sometimes older than) 25 years old.

Who funds the Trevor Project? One is led to believe it's merely a ragtag band of do-gooder rebels fighting the good fight. In fact, it's funded by the most well monied corporate interests on the planet:

Many of the brands Americans love, and trust fund the TP, including but not limited to Macy's, Chipotle, and H&M. Their list of funders also includes social media tech companies, like Google, Facebook, and TikTok; investment houses, like Wells Fargo and Bank of America, media conglomerates like Disney and AT&T. Not surprisingly, pharma companies like Abbvie, Gilead and Bristol Myers Squib among others are also partnered with the charity.

Transgenderism is big business. The Fortune 500 got the memo: if they want to be a part of the post-human, transhumanist technocracy, they had better get with the program.

Same goes for talentless Hollywood ladder-climbers if they want to keep working.

Ben Bartee is an independent Bangkok-based American journalist with opposable thumbs.

Join Armageddon Prose via Substack or Locals if you are inclined to support independent journalism free of corporate slant. Also, follow Armageddon Prose at Gab and Twitter for the latest content.

Insta-tip jar and Bitcoin public address: bc1qvq4hgnx3eu09e0m2kk5uanxnm8ljfmpefwhawv

Image: Daniel Radcliffe. Credit: The Trevor Project via YouTube, CC BY 3.0 (cropped).
The Washington Post a few days ago highlighted a just-published book by its former columnist Thomas Edsall, now at the New York Times. The books publisher, Princeton University Press, writes:

Thomas Byrne Edsall fears that the country may be headed over a cliff, arguing that the election of Donald Trump was the most serious threat to the American political system since the Civil War. In this compelling and illuminating book, Edsall documents how the Trump years ravaged the nations politics, culture, and social order.

This analysis is a crock. Democrats have been seeking to divide the country by race, sex and class for decades. They have sought to destroy anyone who got in their way. It started way before Trump.

Is American politics past the point of no return? In this compelling book, New York Times columnist and political reporter Thomas Byrne Edsall documents how the Trump years ravaged the nations politics, culture, and social order.

Obama lied continuously to get Obamacare passed, not Trump. People who were against Obamas policies on healthcare and other things were frequently called racists. See! Right-wing intolerance, hatred and racism fuel this movement.

Obama dictatorially ignored immigration laws when he implemented DACA, not Trump.



Obama and Biden support lawless sanctuary cities and states, not Trump.



Obama used the IRS to target political opponents, not Trump. He sought to silence people who disagreed on policies before elections.

Biden compared tea party members who wanted smaller government as domestic terrorists. Democrats frequently use this tactic whether it is people who want to make America great again, people who protest elections, or parents.

Obama and Biden have used the Justice Department to spy on and target political opponents, not Trump.



Obama and Biden support soft on crime DA's, not Trump.



Obama and Biden dictatorially use the EPA to destroy energy companies, not Trump.



Biden is destroying women and girls right by making them share space and compete with biological men, not Trump.



Biden appointed a woman to the Supreme Court who can't even define what a woman is, yet we are supposed to trust her to interpret laws.



Biden supports allowing kids to be castrated, or have their breasts removed without their parents knowledge, not Trump.



Biden ordered Catholic priests to stop showing up at Walter Reed Hospital, not Trump.

The ESG movement is meant to divide and destroy companies that don't adhere to leftist policies.



Biden and Obama support abortion on demand and withholding health care from newborn babies in botched abortions, not Trump.



Biden and Obama oppose school choice for poor kids, not Trump.



Biden's justice Department targeted parents and Catholics, not Trump.

A probe of the National School Boards Associations call for federal investigations of parents as domestic terrorists found the White House was involved in the drafting process that led to the controversial request.

Obama and Biden had slush funds at EPA, Justice Department and CFPB where they shook down companies and gave kickbacks to leftist groups, not Trump.



Biden's justice Department doesn't care about groups that targeted cities or crisis pregnancy centers or illegally protested in front of Supreme court justices houses, not Trump's.

The CDC, under Biden, coordinated with teachers unions to keep schools closed, which has caused massive permanent harm to children and families.

The American Federation of Teachers lobbied the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on, and even suggested language for, the federal agencys school-reopening guidance released in February.

The media is a major participant in the destruction of American culture and politics.



They participated in spreading the lies about Russian collusion and calling Trump an illegitimate president for years to divide and conquer the public.



They still participate in covering up for the Biden family corruption, which is massive.

The media repeated all the misinformation from Fauci and the CDC while silencing those who disagreed. People who didnt take the vaccine were fired and were said to want people to die.



The media never called Democrats who have challenged elections election deniers, but calls any Republicans who challenged an election deniers to disparage them in the eyes of the public.

The media and other Democrats always play the race card to intentionally divide the country.

The examples are endless:

The hands up, don't shoot narrative was a blatant lie to gin up racial hate and division against white cops. How many police have been injured and killed because of this intentional lie?

The media targeted white Christian boys for the crime of wearing MAGA hats. The media and other Democrats don't care who they destroy as they quest for power.

Democrats used the filibuster over 300 times to stop Trump's policies and appointments. But then:

Democrats working to dismantle the filibuster as a major impediment to their legislative agenda say the procedural maneuver is a threat to civil rights.

Trump was falsely blamed for a photo showing kids in cages to gin up racial hate towards him. The pictures were from the Obama, Biden years.

Biden and others continually lie about what Trump said at Charlottesville. Trump repeatedly denounced white supremacists and Nazi's but that wouldnt divide the public so they lie.

We keep hearing that Trump is an authoritarian, which is absolute BS. Trump tried to give the money and power to the people. Obama and Biden tried to amass power for themselves and the government.

Trumps policies were lifting all boats. Minorities and the poor were seeing real wages rise substantially. The poverty rate hit a record low in December 2019 under Trump, not under the Great Society and anti-poverty programs that keep people poor and dependent on the government.

Think how much better Trump could have done if the media and other Democrats werent seeking to destroy him every day.

Obama and Biden refuse to enforce immigration laws Congress passed and dictatorially implemented DACA.



Now Biden, without Congressional approval, has approved billions in health insurance benefits for illegals.

Biden wants to buy young peoples votes, so he is dictatorially trying to cancel student debt.

Biden and his EPA are dictatorially forcing people to buy expensive electric vehicles powered by flammable pollutants.

Biden is forcing schools to allow boys to compete with girls and forcing girls to share facilities with people with penises.

Conclusion: The media and other Democrats will seek to destroy whichever Republican is chosen as the presidential candidate, just as they have in the past. It doesn't matter if they are black, white, orange or if they are a woman. They are the party of personal destruction. Just watch what they do to Nikki Haley, Tim Scott, and Clarence Thomas.

Photo creedit: YouTube screengrab
In this Nov. 13, 2022 file photo, Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, left, and U.S. President Joe Biden pose for a photo during their summit at a hotel in Phnom Penh. Yonhap



President Yoon Suk Yeol said Tuesday the Korea-U.S. alliance is strong enough to bounce back from any conflict of interest or trouble, according to his spokesperson.



Yoon made the remark during a Cabinet meeting held days before he travels to Washington for a state visit and a summit with U.S. President Joe Biden on April 26.



"The president said the Korea-U.S. alliance is not a relationship that meets and parts according to one's interests, but an alliance rooted in the universal values of a liberal democracy and market economy," presidential spokesperson Lee Do-woon said during a press briefing.



"Korea and the United States are a resilient value-based alliance that can fully readjust even when their interests are in conflict or when there is trouble," Yoon was quoted as saying.



When asked whether the president was referring to the recent controversy over allegations the U.S. eavesdropped on Korea's presidential office, a presidential official evaded a direct answer.



"Brothers can fight for various reasons, but just because they argue, isn't it so that they are not considered no longer brothers or no longer family?" the official said.



"In an alliance, not all interests can be the same ... but if they can overcome differences of opinion through dialogue and negotiation, based on trust, it can be resolved within that framework, and the Korea-U.S. alliance is precisely such an alliance," the official added.



Yoon's visit to Washington comes as the countries mark 70 years since the establishment of their alliance.



During the trip, Yoon will confer the Order of Military Merit on three American veterans of the 1950-53 Korean War, according to a government official.



"Veterans issues will be one of the core keywords of this state visit," a presidential official said. (Yonhap)


The book-buying public may be snapping up copies of David Horowitz's newest book: Final Battle: The Next Election Could Be the Last, but the media's cultural gatekeepers are doing their best to prevent more people from buying it. A shameful case of suppression of conservative thought is underway. Mark Tapson writes at Front Page Magazine:

It is the number one best-selling political book in the nation as recorded on Amazon's best-seller list. For three months it has been the number one best-seller in Amazon's "Elections" category, topping such powerhouse books as Alan Dershowitz's Get Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis' new book The Courage to Be Free. Former President Donald Trump praised Final Battle as "Great!" and urged his followers to read it. He even named his presidential campaign "Final Battle." Yet, as Newsmax points out, to date outside of Newsmax there has been no mention of Final Battle in the major media, including Fox News. The boycott extends to the leftwing best-seller lists, in particular the New York Times Bestseller List, the gold standard of book sales. Final Battle does not appear on the Times list at all. When I inquired, the publisher at Humanix Books told me that weekly sales of Horowitz's book "have been higher than other titles on the New York Times bestseller list, but the NYT has not yet included Final Battle. And they won't explain why not."

It no longer comes as any surprise to learn that the New York Times bestseller list ignores conservative books that outsell those the Times deems the nation's best-selling books. To anyone knowledgeable about the Times' track record in downplaying conservative books, the list is no longer the gold standard. Yet the magic words "New York Times best-seller" continue to be the most sought after endorsement in the publishing industry.

Tapson speculates as to why Fox has joined with the Times in suppressing mention of the book:

Why then the silence at Fox? Over the years Horowitz has put on posh events at the Four Seasons in Beverly Hills for Fox authors, including Jesse Waters, Greg Gutfeld, Brian Kilmeade, Pete Hegseth, Steve Hilton and Mollie Hemingway. According to Horowitz these authors are still his friends and not responsible for the boycott which has been imposed by Fox management. A probable reason for their decision is the fact that Final Battle's publisher Humanix Books is the publishing division of Newsmax Media, the cable news and digital media company founded by Christopher Ruddy in 1998 which happens to be the fastest-growing cable news network. Could Fox News be feeling the heat from Newsmax's booming popularity? Another possibility is that Horowitz has been a consistent supporter of former President Trump from the moment the real estate and reality show mogul announced his candidacy back in 2015. He remains a Trump supporter for the upcoming election. Fox News was always wishy-washy at best about Trump, and now even the Left recognizes that Ron DeSantis is the network's preferred candidate. Trump himself soured on Fox News after the media giant backed off from defending his claim that the 2020 election was stolen  a history-changing attack on the election process that Horowitz details in Final Battle. Could Fox News have decided not to promote an influential book that might empower a Trump presidential run?

The waters are very treacherous for any conservative author, even one so justly famous and well regarded as David Horowitz. It is a shame that polarization is causing conservatives to ignore others' conservative books.
Summer is upon us, and America beckons, but not all of it! Let's face it: if the Rose City was on your bucket list, you outlived it. Perhaps you should have been on Portland's bucket list instead.

Forget about Orlando, Disney, San Francisco, Seattle, Honolulu, and Denver, too; deplorable dollars aren't welcome! But they aren't the only places that label you a fascist. Durango, Tucson, Flagstaff, Gallup, Moab, Wisconsin Dells, Boston, the Hamptons, Telluride, Stowe, and Santa Fe are all woked up as well. Forget about Aspen, Atlantic City, Savannah, Palm Beach, Jackson Hole, Helena, Williamsburg, and even Anaheim...they think you are "literally Hitler," too.

Of course, you aren't going to bother with Chicago, Detroit, or Minneapolis...but guess what! Omaha, Nashville, and New Orleans have got blue cancer, too.

So where exactly is a self-respecting conservative supposed to go to relax and get away from the intolerant inclusion and tranzshee's throwing mantrums? Here's a partial list of MAGA-friendly destinations located in red counties that really want your tourist dollars.

Laughlin, NV. Although Clark County is not red anymore, Mojave County is, and Laughlin is more influenced by Bullhead City than Las Vegas. Busy times see patriotic Americans flock to this little Mecca by the river, and elderly couples fill in the slow times, making Laughlin solidly conservative all the time.

Elko and West Wendover, NV. Elko County is solid red, and amazingly beautiful! The Ruby Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for a genuine Western getaway.

Thackerville, OK. Home of the world's largest casino gaming floor! Three times as large as the biggest casino in Vegas!

Bartlesville, OK features the only skyscraper designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, the Phillips Petroleum corporate headquarters.

The rest of Oklahoma. The Sooner State has really morphed into a pretty amazing destination over the past decade. There are more casinos in Oklahoma than there are in Nevada, and they are all new. The people are friendly, and the back roads are empty and beautiful.

Daytona Beach...America's "Redneck Riviera." Sun, surf, and NASCAR.

Bakersfield. If you must go to California, there is really only one place. Just ask Buck Owens.

Cortez, CO...an hour West of Durango, a tried-and-true Trump town on the doorstep of Mesa Verde National Park.

Traverse City. Known all over Michigan as a great year-round destination, it deserves conservative consideration, as it is a spectacular destination.

Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Chattanooga are Tennessee family-friendly destinations, packed with lots of activities for kids of all ages.

Fort Worth...over Dallas, any day, any time.

League City and Galveston offer Texas-size fun, at a variety of laid back resorts.

French Lick, IN...where the jet set went before jets, this oft forgotten gem of a town offers world-class lodging the way it was meant to be, over the top in the most dignified way possible!



French Lick Resort and Casino.

Carmel, IN features brand spanking new old-world European charm. As Scottsdale is to Phoenix, Carmel is to Indianapolis.

Cedar Key, FL: Don't everyone go there at once! This tiny island southwest of Gainesville on the coast is a conservative cove of tranquility for a few dozen people at a time to visit.

Little America, WY. If you really want to get away from it all, the windswept high desert is certainly a place to do it. Bring a good book, because there's whole lot of nothing but a luxury hotel owned by Sinclair Oil.

Sturgis, SD...if you own a Harley, you are probably already on your way there.

Amarillo. Get there by morning and try for a free 72-ounce steak in the evening.

Branson...the one, the only, and red, red, red.

Red America needs your support. It needs your travel dollars. So please don't overlook the Oklahoma Panhandle, the South Shore of Lake Superior, and the Ozarks. Places like Ely, NV; Mattoon, IL; Kearney, NE; Atchison, KS; and Ticonderoga, NY are amazing places to stop and explore for a day. So stop, experience, eat at local restaurants, support conservative families!

This year, depend on deplorable destinations to give you that red state recharge you need! Go! See! Spend! And enjoy!

Photo credit: Public Domain Pictures.
Migrants have been massing at the U.S.-Mexico border waiting for the Title 42 health program to expire on May 11. Why? Once it does, it will create an opportunity for the migrants to cross the border and get a toehold in the United States.

"There are thousands and thousands just waiting for Title 42 to end. I would say a fear is that the Biden admin has no clue just how bad it's going to get. We can barely actively patrol the border now. When Title 42 ends, all of our resources, all of our little manpower that we do have, are going to be focused on processing. Field work will nearly cease to exist in my opinion," a Customs and Border Patrol agent working along the southern border told the Daily Caller News Foundation.



YouTube screen grab.

Title 42 was established during the Trump administration at the beginning of the COVID pandemic. Border officials can automatically refuse entry to migrants who may have been infected by the deadly virus. According to government statistics, 2.5 million potential illegal aliens have been turned away at the border.

Some border states challenged the end of the order, but that only delayed the inevitable end. And once it does end, the Department of Homeland Security estimates that CBP could be expected to handle up to 14,000 illegal aliens each day, a source told CNN.

Despite that expected wave of illegals, little to nothing has been done to prepare the southern border for the surge.

"Most of the time, we are just told that Title 42 will end eventually and to be mentally prepared for the influx of migrants when it does. Regular line agents don't seem to be offered an outline or plan as to how we will actually deal with the large numbers at the processing level," one agent told the DCNF.

While the program can't and shouldn't remain in place indefinitely, right now it is protecting our southern border. Even the Biden administration has admitted that once it expires, there will be a surge of illegals.

So why hasn't more been done? Agents reassigned. Temporary facilities arranged for. National Guard or other military deployed.

The federal government knows that Customs and Border Patrol and border communities can't handle the expected wave of people crossing illegally. El Paso, which has a Democrat mayor, has already declared a state of emergency in the city because of the overwhelming demand for services that the growing illegal alien population requires, and the city can't provide. And he did that while Title 42 is still in effect.

Meanwhile, the White House appears to be doing nothing to strengthen our border. When press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre was asked what Vice President Kamala Harris is doing to address the "root cause" of mass migration to the southern border, which is something she has been put in charge of, Jean-Pierre said, "I don't have anything to lay out specifically on what that work looks like."

When that wave of illegals hits the border, it will be a tidal wave that overwhelms the order and facilities along the border unless the government starts preparing now. It may be too late, but anything that can be done to better prepare is better than nothing.

Michael A. Letts is the CEO and Founder of In-VestUSA, a national grassroots non-profit organization helping hundreds of communities provide thousands of bulletproof vests for their police forces through educational, public relations, sponsorship, and fundraising programs.
Mayor-Elect Brandon Johnson got an introduction to Chicago. Over the weekend, the youth got restless and showed the world how little they respect the police, the mayor, the mayor-elect, and the businesses that pay the taxes. It was Exhibit A of everything gone wrong with what used to be a great city. To make matters worse, the mayor-elect decided to opine on the matter, and the young must be laughing to tears. This is the story:

Chicago Mayor-elect Brandon Johnson warned against vilifying youth while condemning a chaotic "Teen Takeover" of the Loop over the weekend, which saw hundreds of young people descend on the downtown area for two nights in a row. Two teenage males, ages 16 and 17, were shot while standing in a crowd during the mayhem on Saturday night, as hundreds of young people smashed cars, blocked traffic, and fought in the streets. Both victims were transported to a hospital and listed in fair condition, according to Fox 32 Chicago. "In no way do I condone the destructive activity we saw in the Loop and lakefront this weekend. It is unacceptable and has no place in our city. However, it is not constructive to demonize youth who have otherwise been starved of opportunities in their own communities," Johnson, a progressive who defeated moderate Democrat Paul Vallas earlier this month, said in a statement on Sunday. "Our city must work together to create spaces for youth to gather safely and responsibly, under adult guidance and supervision, to ensure that every part of our city remains welcome for both residents and visitors."

Oh, my goodness. He said that he does not condone the destructive activity but does not want to demonize the youth. Sorry, but they are already demons. What civilized person does that? Space for what? What space do you have in mind? Wrigley Field won't take them!

The solution is twofold, and the mayor-elect has a chance to show the world that there is more to a civilization than raising taxes on the rich.

First, he can call the secretary of defense and provide the recruits that the U.S. Armed Forces need. These young people need a sergeant in their lives. Second, he can give the speech that no Democrat has the courage to give. He can tell the Democrats that we've raised a generation that need fathers and lots of tough love.

Wonder how many in Chicago put their homes for sale this weekend?

PS: Check out my blog for posts, podcasts, and videos.

Image: TDKR Chicago 101.
Annie Wilson was a Vermont public school teacher for 34 years, but she retired two years ago after the woke writing was thickly coated on the schoolhouse walls. In recent testimony in the Legislature against an outrageous bill that creates special shields for teachers who assist minor children to obtain gender hormones without parental knowledge, Ms. Wilson related her personal experiences with children who resisted the official party dogma:

Over the last few years I saw a great shift in education. The focus was leaning away from subject matter, the intellect and learning of knowledge, and more toward the emotional and social aspects of the child[.] ... The message was pretty clear, students were not allowed the freedom of free thinking unless it fit into the narrative of what the teachers felt was allowed[.]

Wilson relates stories of children being targeted and shamed for resisting School Pride celebrations; denied the liberty to display an insignia of their support for then-president Donald Trump; and subjected to preferential favoritism for transgender students. She related the experience of conservative students who demurred to the NEA's official narrative on the January 6 "insurrection":

The NEA (National Education Association) sent out suggestions on how the teachers could talk to the students about the attack on the capitol. The "conservative" students, the 7th graders, came to me and told me they were intimidated to speak up and say how they really felt about it for fear of being sent to the Resource Room, where students are sent for misbehavior. During their CRT lessons, a social studies teacher wrote two categories on the white board, one of them being the word "Racist." This social studies teacher placed "Trump'' under the racist category on the white board.

This disgraceful politicization of the classroom is not confined to Vermont. The NEA ought to rename itself the DIA: Democrat Indoctrination Association. Its website affirms Annie Wilson's account:

Explain that the attack on the Capitol today was led by Trump supporters seeking to overthrow a legitimate presidential election and the will of the American people, but they will not be successful. Our country is much stronger than they are and their efforts to divide us will only make our unity more powerful.

This political marshaling of children for future militancy incorporates artificial intelligence (A.I.) technologies and Social-Emotional Learning. A recent survey of third-grade students in the same Vermont school where Annie Wilson taught asked them, "Do you identify as LGBTQIA+?" and "Do you have a teacher or other adult from school who you can count on to help you, no matter what?" Clearly, students there who are from conservative Christian families do not have many supportive teachers. Extremist woke teachers are grooming children to confide in them for gender hormone therapies, private discussions about sex, and other confidences "no matter what."

Children with views that diverge from this one-party domination will be stigmatized and disciplined. Cases have proliferated of children being rebuked for slogans such as "Let's Go Brandon" and "There are only two genders"; a school fundraiser was canceled for selling Chick-fil-A products; an eight-year-old was forced to apologize for misgendering a girl who identified as a boy; girls (and their families) who objected to being forced to strip in their locker room before a gawking biological male were targeted as bigots.

A brave Vermont mother stood up for her young children against gender indoctrination in this same school district. A Vermont statute provides that children with religious objections against teaching about diseases must be dismissed from health education classes, but the parent was denied an exemption for her kids.

Annie Wilson pointed out that those grooming young children for these radical, life-altering decisions would once have been regarded as reportable predators, but they are now being shielded while children are being exploited:

We know that students look up to, admire and idolize their teachers. What happens when a teacher or counselor, "(ii) is a person providing, assisting another person in obtaining, or obtaining for themselves reproductive health care services or gender-affirming health care services in this State", manipulates and influences minors? H.89 protects them, but who protects the student?

Vermonters need teachers and parents who will stand up for children, not manipulate them like pawns for their own agendas.

John Klar hosts the Small Farm Republic Substack and podcast from his Vermont farm. His new book is Small Farm Republic: Why Conservatives Must Embrace Local Agriculture, Reject Climate Alarmism, and Lead an Environmental Revival.

Image: Vermont Agency of Education.
Located in the province of Catania, in the Italian island of Sicily, is the town of Grammichele. It is one of the few towns in the world to have the unique hexagonal layout.

The town was founded after the great Sicily earthquake of 1693 wiped out an earlier settlement called Occhiala, located to the north of modern Grammichele. The survivors built a new town and named it Grammichele, after St. Michele, in the hope that the saint will protect the new town from further disasters.

Grammichele was built by Carlo Maria Carafa Branciforte, the Prince of Roccella and Butera. Designed by Michele da Ferla, it was the first city in Europe with a hexagonal plan. Its layout was probably inspired by Palmanova, a fortified town built one hundred years earlier. The main difference is that Palmanova is based on a nine facets polygon, while Grammichele has a hexagonal plan that could be potentially extended indefinitely. The hexagonal plan designed for Grammichele is divided into six sectors by six roads all converging towards the main square, that is hexagonal too, on which public offices overlooked.

Many collecting areas were created in the town for residents to gather in case a calamity struck. These squares were equidistant and all connected by a geometrically concentric road network around the main hexagonal square, now called Prince Carafa Square. Beyond the hexagon, four rectangular districts were designed. One of them was supposed to contain the Prince Palace but it was never built.

Hexagonal planning is rare today, a mere oddity among a vast array of ideologies, theories and methods, writes authors Eran Ben-Joseph and David Gordon on a paper on hexagonal planning. It briefly caught the attention of various planners, engineers and architects in the early 20th century, but none were able to build large scale plans of this layout.

The New York architect and art historian Charles Lamb advocated the hexagonal city plan as a practical and artistic solution to the ills of the modern city. He claimed that such a system would not only allow for the creation of beautiful European-style boulevards but also allow for planned growth and healthy living. The Australian engineer, Rudolf Mueller, pointed out that the hexagonal layout would lead to potential savings in the length of the water lines as well as those for the sewer system. Fewer hydrants and water mains could serve a larger number of buildings, and shorter service lines could be laid between the mains and the buildings. Others such as Arthur Comey envisioned entire regions covered with small hexagonal towns, connected to each other and to large ones, and larger towns connected to major metropolitan areas, creating a carpet of hexagonal cells.

The turmoil of World War 2, however, put an end to hexagonal planning. In practice, hexagonal blocks would have been too unusual to be a workable solution. How would streets be named or dwellings numbered in a hexagon plan? How would strangers navigate the streets of Hexagonopolis? asked Eran Ben-Joseph. Besides, residential developers and home buyers did not like triangular lots and awkward corners.

Hexagonal planning is a concept that may work in theory but not in practice, he concludes.

The main square of the Sicilian town of Grammichele with town hall, mother church and sundial. Photo credit: imagesef / Shutterstock.com

One of the many street views of Grammichele. Photo credit: NORRIE3699/Shutterstock.com
Samsungs upcoming mid-range smartphone Galaxy A24 has appeared on Google Play Console ahead of its rumored launch later this month. The listing confirms some of the phones rumored specs. The Korean firm hasnt yet announced a launch date for the device.

The Galaxy A24 is listed with the model number SM-A245F on the Google Play Console. Based on Samsungs model number scheme, this is the global version of a 4G device. The listing reveals that the phone is powered by a MediaTek chipset identified by the part number MT6789V. The chipset has two ARM Cortex-A76 CPU cores clocked at 2.2GHz and six Cortex-A55 cores at 2.0GHz. It integrates a dual-core ARM Mali G57 GPU. Based on this data, we can confirm its the Helio G99 processor.

The handset features a 10802324 display (Full HD+ resolution) with 450 DPI screen density. We should be looking at a 6.5-inch panel with a 90Hz refresh rate and 1,000 nits of peak brightness. There are contradicting reports over whether its a Super AMOLED panel or an LCD screen, though. For photos and videos, we are expecting a 50MP primary shooter with OIS (Optical Image Stabilization), 5MP ultrawide lens, 2MP macro camera, and a 13MP selfie camera.

Spotted by Pricebaba, the Google Play Console listing shows the Galaxy A24 with 4GB of RAM. Earlier leaks and rumors say the device will be available with 128GB of storage capacity, expandable by a further 1TB via a MicroSD card. Other rumored specs include a 5,000mAh battery with 25W fast charging, a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, a 3.5 mm headphone jack with Dolby Atmos support, and Android 13.

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Samsung may not keep the Galaxy A24 under wraps for much longer

The Galaxy A24 will arrive as the fifth model in Samsungs 2023 Galaxy A lineup. The company launched the Galaxy A14 5G in January and followed it up with the Galaxy A14 in February. Last month, it launched the Galaxy A54 5G and Galaxy A34 5G. It also confirmed the existence of the Galaxy A24 last month but didnt share further details.

However, leaks have already revealed plenty about the new phone. The Galaxy A24 has also picked up regulatory approvals in several markets over the past few weeks. All of these developments hint at a nearing release. Rumors suggest the phone will break cover in April but we havent heard anything from Samsung yet. We will let you know as soon as we have more information.
In an attempt to curb Microsofts efforts of gaining the search engine market share with its Bing AI chatbot, Google is reportedly planning to release new AI-powered search tools next month. The new tools, codenamed Magi, will initially launch in the US for a limited number of users and will likely build on the conversational capabilities of Googles experimental chatbot, Bard.

In addition to the AI search tools, Google is also reportedly working on other projects, including a radical rebuild of its search engine, an image generator called GIFI, a language learning system called Tivoli Tutor, and Searchalong, a feature similar to Bings sidebar, which will help users answer questions about the current webpage. For instance, while booking a hotel, users could ask the chatbot to search for activities nearby, and the AI would scan the webpage and the internet for a suitable response.

Were excited about bringing new A.I.-powered features to search and will share more details soon, said Lara Levin, a Google spokeswoman.

Googles hurried development of these AI tools comes in response to the growing threat posed by Microsofts Bing chatbot and OpenAIs ChatGPT. While conversational chatbots are still in their early stages, Microsofts integration of them in many of its services has given the company a significant advantage against Google.

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Samsung considers switching to Bing

Although fierce rivals, over the past few years, Samsung and Google have been working together on a lot of projects. But Googles position in the search engine market is under threat, and Samsung is considering replacing Google with Bing as the default search engine on its phones and tablets. This could have a significant impact on Google since their deal is reportedly worth over $3 billion annually.

However, it is also important to note that its unclear whether Samsung is seriously considering Microsoft, or is just trying to advantage of Googles tough situation and negotiate a more favorable deal.
Seventeen is 'more confident than ever' before release of new EP
A new leak has popped up about the Pixel Tablet that sheds light on a handful of details about the upcoming product, including colors, some of the specs and possible included accessories.

The new leak, reported on initially by 9To5Google, suggests the tablet will come with 8GB of RAM and it will have the dock included. 8GB doesnt sound like a lot but its likely going to be more than enough for what this tablet is designed for. In addition to the RAM, the tablet will reportedly launch with the Tensor G2 chip and come with Android 13.

As for the dock, it wasnt clear whether or not this would be coming with the device. It certainly seems like something that could be an optional accessory. But that is apparently not the case.

The Pixel Tablet will come in four colors

Ahead of this leak the Pixel Tablet was already known to come in two different colors. One that looks like the Sage color offered on the Pixel 5 and another that appears to be beige. Featuring black and white bezels respectively. It seems Google also has plans to launch the tablet in two additional colors. Although its still not known what those colors will be.

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It would make sense though for both of them to closely follow the color scheme of more recent devices. The tablet will also come with two storage options. As for accessories, there are likely to be more than a few. The leak however only mentions one. An optional case that will serve as light protection.

The Google Pixel Tablet is expected to be announced on May 10 at Googles annual I/O conference. Itll likely make an appearance alongside the Pixel Fold and the rumored Pixel 7a smartphone. Launch dates are of course still unknown. But pre-orders for the Pixel Fold are rumored to be May 30. So theres a chance the Pixel Tablet could go up for pre-order around the same time.
The Motorola Razr Pro and Razr Lite foldables will launch on June 1 in Madrid, if a tipster is to be believed. This information comes from Max Jambor, a well-known tipster.

The Motorola Razr Pro & Razr Lite will launch on June 1 in Madrid

The Motorola Razr Lite actually surfaced in renders quite recently, while we were wondering what the name of the other model will be. Its sibling, the Motorola Razr Plus 2023, was mentioned in rumors, and that name did get certified. It seems like Motorola opted for a different naming, though. Or perhaps it plans to launch the Motorola Razr Plus later on, who knows.

The higher-end model will be called the Motorola Razr Pro. That device will have a much larger display than the Razr Lite, at least if rumors and leaks are to be believed. Its display will cover the vast majority of the upper portion of the phones back, when unfolded. When folded, almost the entire front side will be covered by that secondary display.

This will be a global launch event for the two phones, by the way. Also, we dont have any spec info regarding the Lite model, but the Motorola Razr Pro details did surface, well, some of them.

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The Razr Pro will include a 120Hz main display, Android 13, and one of Qualcomms best SoCs

That phone is said to include a 2,850mAh battery, and support 30W wired charging. Its display will likely be between 6.7 and 6.8 inches, and it will be a fullHD+ AMOLED panel. Were expecting a 120Hz or 144Hz panel here.

The Motorola Razr Pro will likely include LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.0 flash storage on the inside. Android 13 will come pre-installed on the device, with Motorolas additions to it.

When it comes to the phones SoC, itll be either the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 or the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, it remains to be seen. Well get a lot more information on June 1, it seems. Motorola is expected to confirm that launch date in the near future.
Samsung is seemingly getting closer to launching its first-gen smart ring, aptly called Galaxy Ring. The company has reportedly finalized the key health-tracking technologies for the device. We dont yet have a precise launch date, or even a timeframe, though.

Samsung has shown interest in a smart ring product for a long time. Early patent applications related to such wearable devices from the Korean tech giant date back several years. But it reportedly got serious about commercially releasing a health monitoring smart ring last year. Shortly after the Korean media reported that Samsung has begun work on the device, it filed a trademark application for the moniker Galaxy Ring.

The latest word from the industry is that Samsung plans to offer a PPG (Photoplethysmography) sensor and an ECG (Electrocardiogram)sensor on the device. The idea is to make the Galaxy Ring a comprehensive mobile health and fitness tracker. Since its inner surface will wrap around your finger, it can measure your activities, heart activity, sleep, and other health parameters more accurately than existing smartwatches and fitness bands.

Samsung may be contemplating the best time to launch the Galaxy Ring

A new report coming from South Korea states that Samsung is on the verge of a significant technical milestone for the Galaxy Ring. However, it wont rush to bring the product to the market. The company is evaluating its market demand and its effect on smartwatch sales. Since many people buy a smartwatch for health monitoring, they might find the Galaxy Ring a better solution. Its unobtrusive size makes it perfect for continuous wearing.

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This could affect Samsungs Galaxy Watch sales, though. By the looks of it, the Korean firm will take its time before launching the first-gen Galaxy Ring. The smart ring market is relatively new and doesnt have many players. Italian luxury brand Gucci teamed up with Finnish healthcare company Oura to launch an 18-carat gold smart ring last year. Otherwise, the market is almost untouched by any other big names.

But Samsung isnt the only tech biggie working on a smart ring. Apple is also said to be readying a similar product. The worlds two largest smartphone companies seemingly plan to offer the wearable device as a companion health monitoring gadget that could also serve as an input device and controller for the phone. It remains to be seen which smartphone giant comes out on top. Stay tuned for more information about Samsungs Galaxy Ring.
Headquarters of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in central Seoul / Korea Times file



South Korea said Tuesday it may evacuate its citizens from the conflict-ridden Sudan, as it seeks to stay on top of the ongoing hostilities in the African nation.



An official with the foreign ministry told reporters the government has been keeping close tabs on the development in Sudan through news reports, and real-time information exchange with the United States and other allies.



"We see this as a grave situation, as there have been attacks on foreign missions," the official said, on the condition of anonymity. "We will continue to explore many different options."



Among the options is believed to be the evacuation of the 25 South Korean citizens currently in Sudan.



In a press briefing earlier in the day, foreign ministry spokesperson Lim Soo-suk said the South Korean embassy in Sudan has been checking in on South Korean citizens there and that they have all been accounted for.



Evacuation is expected to present a few challenges, as airspace over Sudan has been closed and traveling by land will be fraught with danger.



Reports out of Sudan have said nearly 200 lives have been lost in the ongoing power struggle between the two generals who seized power in a 2021 coup: army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his deputy, Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who leads the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces.



Amid growing international calls for an end, a U.S. diplomatic convoy has come under fire in Sudan, and Aidan O'Hara, the European Union ambassador to Sudan, has been assaulted in his own residence. (Yonhap)


More than half of Britons do not think the Kings coronation should be funded by the Government, a new poll suggests.

The YouGov survey, carried out just over two weeks before Charles and the Queen Consort are set to be crowned, found 51% of adults questioned believe the ceremony should not be funded by the Government.

Almost a third  32%  said it should, while around 18% did not know.

The Kings coronation is set to cost many millions of pounds  and it falls to taxpayers to foot the bill.

Do you think the coronation of King Charles should or should not be funded by the government? All BritonsShould: 32%Should not: 51% 18-24 year oldsShould: 15%Should not: 62% 65+ year oldsShould: 43%Should not: 44%https://t.co/MzfHCbp5Fs pic.twitter.com/3rUKWPjxHv  YouGov (@YouGov) April 18, 2023

But with no budget revealed for the historic national state occasion, and the Government not commenting on the expected total cost, the amount of public funds due to be spent remains unknown.

Taking place amid the cost-of-living crisis facing the UK and against a backdrop of strikes by doctors, teachers and other public servants over pay, the event has been branded a waste of taxpayers money by critics.

Some unconfirmed predictions suggest Operation Golden Orb could cost the nation between 50 million and 100 million.

The late Elizabeth IIs coronation cost 912,000 in 1953  20.5 million in todays money  while Charless grandfather George VI was crowned at a cost of 454,000 in 1937  worth 24.8 million in 2023 and the most expensive coronation of the last 300 years.

Of the 4,246 adults surveyed on Tuesday, 62% of those aged 18 to 24 were not in favour of the coronation being Government-funded, while 15% were in favour.

Members of the military depart Buckingham Palace, central London, during a night time rehearsal for the coronation (Yui Mok/PA)

With those aged 65 and over, the figures were more evenly balanced, with 44% saying it should not be Government-funded, and 43% saying it should.

For 25 to 49-year-olds, 25% said the coronation should be Government-funded and 55% said it should not, and for 50 to 64-year-olds 46% said it should not be down to Government money, while 39% said it should.

Graham Smith, chief executive of campaign group Republic, has called the coronation an expensive pantomime and a slap in the face for millions of people struggling with the cost-of-living crisis.

As with jubilees and other such events, it is understood the total cost and breakdown of funding will not be available until after the May 6 event.

Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Oliver Dowden has previously insisted the King and the Government are mindful of ensuring that there is value for the taxpayer and there will not be lavishness or excess.

But Mr Dowden also told the Commons Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee at the start of the year: It is a marvellous moment in our history and people would not want a dour scrimping and scraping.
A supermarket driver who delivered shopping to vulnerable people during the coronavirus lockdown is flying back from a holiday in Greece for his sons wedding to attend the Kings coronation.

Geoff Norris, 55, who works for the Asda store in Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, received an invitation to the Westminster Abbey ceremony on May 6, having been awarded the British Empire Medal in 2020 for his services to the Covid-19 response.

However, he realised this would come in the middle of a family holiday on the island Kos from May 3, ahead of his son Anthonys wedding a week later, where he will be best man.

Mr Norris said: When I received the invitation from the Cabinet Office I felt very, very proud and very, very honoured.

I obviously accepted straight away, but the panic set in as soon as I realised I was going to be out of the country, but I had to be at both occasions, I couldnt miss this opportunity to be at the coronation of King Charles III and I certainly couldnt miss my sons wedding.

The supermarket driver delivered shopping to vulnerable people during the coronavirus lockdown (Asda/PA)

Mr Norris, who used his own car on his days off to make sure elderly and vulnerable customers got their shopping during lockdown, contacted travel operator Tui to see if he could fly back in time.

He said: The Tui website said it was going to cost 1,000 to make any changes. But I phoned and explained my situation, which they treated as exceptional circumstances.

I have to say, their staff went above and beyond to try and help, but unfortunately the scenarios offered didnt quite accommodate what I needed.

So a friends son, Jason Duke, who is a British Airways pilot, sorted flights that work perfectly out of his own pocket, which is very generous of him.

I can now be at both events, which means the world to me.

Mr Norris will fly back to London on the evening of May 5 before returning to Greece a day after the coronation.

He added: I want to publicly thank everyone, and the companies involved, for all their help, kindness and generosity.

During the pandemic, we only ever set out to help the elderly or vulnerable.

Three years later, it is going to be an honour to represent my colleagues, customers and the community at such a memorable occasion.

More than 450 British Empire Medal (BEM) recipients will be at the service.
More than 5,000 migrants have arrived in the UK after crossing the Channel so far this year.

Home Office figures published on Tuesday confirmed the provisional total number of people making the journey to date in 2023 now stands at 5,049.

Some 113 migrants were detected in three boats on Monday, suggesting an average of around 38 people per boat.

A record 45,755 crossings were recorded in 2022.

The cumulative number of Channel crossings this year is currently running below the level for 2022.

At the equivalent point last year, the number of crossings stood at just over 6,300.

Downing Street said there was no quick fix to meet Rishi Sunaks promise to stop the boats.

(PA Graphics)

The Prime Ministers official spokesman said it would require a combination of a number of different approaches from the Government to solve this long-standing problem.

It comes after Mr Sunak last week admitted that his plans to stop boats crossing the Channel wont happen overnight and declined to promise they could be completed by the next general election.

Labours shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper said the figures show the full scale of the Tory failure to get any grip on Channel crossings, adding: All they offer is rhetoric and gimmicks instead of any kind of serious plan. No surprise that Rishi Sunak is rowing back on his promise to stop the boats this year.

Nearly 45,000 migrants have arrived in the UK after crossing the Channel since the Government signed the Rwanda deal just over a year ago.

Suella Braverman told of her dream of seeing the Governments plan to send migrants to the east African nation succeed after she was appointed Home Secretary, a policy which High Court judges ruled is lawful but has so far been stalled by legal action.

Her predecessor Priti Patel signed the agreement  which she described as a world-first  with Rwanda on April 14 last year.

There were 44,976 migrants recorded arriving in the UK after crossing the Channel between April 15 2022 and April 17 2023, according to analysis of Government figures by the PA news agency.

In November, Home Office permanent secretary Matthew Rycroft confirmed Britain had already paid Rwanda 140 million under the deal but said he was still unsure whether the policy was value for money.

The battle over the legality of the policy continues, with a four-day hearing listed at the Court of Appeal next week.

Mr Sunak pledged to stop the boats as one of his five main priorities while in office.

The Prime Ministers official spokesman said: While we are confident that some of the elements already introduced  stepping up the partnership with the French government to increase intercepts in the Channel  is having an impact, we know that this will be an incremental approach.

It was too early to draw conclusions at this stage about the impact of the Governments announcements given we know the impact the weather can have on weekly, even daily, crossings.

It will be the culmination of the introduction of all the different policies we are introducing which will have the long-lasting impact the public wants.

Home Secretary Suella Braverman said it is her dream to send illegal migrants to Rwanda (Lindsay Parnaby/PA)

In an interview with ConservativeHome on Thursday, Mr Sunak said he expects a legal battle over the novel, untested and ambitious Illegal Migration Bill, which is going through Parliament, and confirmed there may well be an interim judgment from the European Court of Human Rights against the policy, as happened with the Rwanda scheme.

The Government has vowed to change the law to make it clear people arriving in the UK illegally will not be allowed to stay, either facing deportation back to their home country or a nation like Rwanda where a deal is in place.

Attempts by ministers and officials to use a former RAF base in Essex to house asylum seekers are also set to end up in court.

Braintree District Council said it has been granted an injunction hearing at the High Court on Wednesday and the Home Office has agreed not to move any migrants on to the Wethersfield site until after that date.
SNP treasurer Colin Beattie returned to the job he held for 16 years after the resignation of his successor and is now at the centre of a police probe into the partys finances.

Mr Beattie, 71, served in the role, which oversees financial matters, between 2004 and 2020 and again from 2021 to the present.

But the MSP has remained relatively under the radar during his time in office.

Originally working in international finance, a biography on his website claims Mr Beattie spent 23 years living in the Middle and Far East, followed by 11 years in London, before settling in Dalkeith, Midlothian in 2001 with his wife Lisa  a former leader of the local authority.

Colin Beattie was arrested on Tuesday in connection with a probe into the partys finances (Andrew Cowan/Scottish Parliament/PA)

First elected as a councillor in Midlothian in 2007, Mr Beattie led the SNP group at the local authority.

But in 2011, he moved to Holyrood, being elected as an MSP for the newly-formed Midlothian North and Musselburgh constituency.

Despite the SNP being in power throughout his tenure as an MSP, Mr Beattie has never achieved ministerial office, having never been invited by Alex Salmond, Nicola Sturgeon or Humza Yousaf to serve in Government.

His highest office to date has been the national treasurer post, a role he was elected to in a vote by party members in 2004.

In the partys 2020 internal elections, however, Mr Beattie lost out to MP Douglas Chapman.

But Mr Chapmans tenure would be short-lived, with him resigning in May 2021, claiming he had not been given enough information to carry out the job.

The following month, Mr Beattie returned to the role.

But, in July 2021, Police Scotland opened an investigation into the use of about 600,000 of donations received by the party as part of a fundraising effort to finance an independence referendum campaign.

In August 2021, Mr Beattie sought to reassure members in a statement released alongside the partys accounts, saying: There has been concern expressed in some quarters that this system does not result in a separate fund being officially recorded in the annual accounts of the party.

Hence a claim from some that the money does not exist.

In fact, the money is earmarked through the internal process set out above and will be deployed fully through future cash flow for the purpose of promoting a referendum on independence and campaigns intended to secure independence.

He continued: While these monies are not separated out, their existence in terms of the commitment as to what they will be spent on is tangible.

Scrutiny on the SNPs finances increased in the years to come, however, resulting in former chief executive  and Nicola Sturgeons husband  Peter Murrell being arrested this month.

He was released without charge pending further investigation after more than 11 hours of questioning.

Mr Beattie was subsequently arrested on Tuesday.
The controversial deposit return scheme (DRS) has been delayed until March next year, the First Minister has said.

Making the announcement as he laid out his priorities for government, Humza Yousaf said the shift was part of a reset between government and business.

The scheme, which would see customers pay a 20p deposit on drinks in cans and bottles that will be paid back when the containers are returned, has come under fierce criticism in recent months.

The scheme will require an exemption to the UK-wide Internal Market Act, given by Westminster, to be able to go ahead given possible implications elsewhere in the UK.

But the First Minister said no such decision was forthcoming and Scottish Secretary Alister Jack welcomed the decision to delay.

Speaking in Holyrood, Mr Yousaf said: I remain committed to this scheme as a way to increase recycling, reduce litter and help achieve our net zero ambitions.

But we recognise the uncertainty that continues to be created as a result of the UK Government delaying the decision to exclude the scheme from the Internal Market Act. We had hoped for that decision this week  but it has not come.

At the same time, I  and the circular economy minister  have heard the concerns of business, particularly about the schemes readiness for launch this August. As a result, we will now delay the launch of the scheme to March 1 2024. This provides 10 months for businesses to get ready.

We will use that additional time to work with businesses, and Circularity Scotland, to address concerns with the scheme and ensure a successful launch next year.

The circular economy minister answered a question about the scheme just minutes before it was delayed by the First Minister (Jane Barlow/PA)

A package of measures, Mr Yousaf said, would also be put in place to simplify and de-risk the scheme.

Mr Jack said: I welcome the First Ministers decision to pause the Scottish Governments Deposit Return Scheme, given the widespread concerns from businesses.

We now have an opportunity to continue working together on solutions which deliver for consumers and businesses across the UK, while helping to realise our shared ambition to improve the environment.

The announcement fell just minutes after circular economy minister Lorna Slater fielded a topical question about the schemes future, where former Scottish Government minister Fergus Ewing described the initiative as a Green poll tax.

Mr Ewing  who has become a fierce critic of the government, particularly around its powersharing deal with the Greens  said business organisations had written to the First Minister to say the DRS would increase prices on consumers  something previously accepted by the head of the company charged with implementing the scheme.

Even David Harris, the boss of (Circularity Scotland Limited), paid 300,000 a year, admits that is the case, he said.

Does the minister agree with the boss of her own agency? And if so, why is she so intent as a Green Party representative of imposing at the height of a cost-of-living crisis, price hikes to the poorest people in Scotland, a kind of Green poll tax?

Responding to the accusation, Ms Slater said: I will remind the member that Circularity Scotland is a private, not-for-profit company, not an agency of the Scottish Government.

And I will also remind the member that the regulations for the deposit return scheme were passed by this parliament and we are implementing those regulations.

Speaking after the First Ministers statement in Holyrood, Ms Slater rejected assertions from the UK Government there had not been a formal request for an exemption to the Internal Market Act.

The scheme was due to come into force in August (Jonathan Pow/PA)

That is absolutely not the case, she told journalists.

There are formal processes involved through the frameworks by which the governments work together and the UK Government has agreed that at every point we followed the process exactly.

Ms Slater is set to make a statement to parliament on Thursday on the scheme, which will likely provide more detail on the delay.

The Federation of Small Business (FSB) welcomed the delay, but stressed the importance of using the time to refine the scheme.

Andrew McRae, the bodys Scottish policy chairman, said: It is essential that the Scottish Government now capitalises on this pause and engages in meaningful conversation with businesses to understand and address their concerns.

Only then can DRS be delivered in a way that will work.

That sentiment was echoed by Scottish Retail Consortium director David Lonsdale, who said the pause must have purpose.

But the British Soft Drinks Association, which represents some of the biggest drink firms in the country, said it was disappointed with the delay.

Director general Gavin Partington said: Our members have committed to the introduction of deposit return schemes and have spent several years and millions of pounds on its planned launch in Scotland.

He added: Further delay now leaves the Scottish scheme in a precarious position and we will be looking to the Scottish Government to protect the considerable industry investment to date.
A French publisher has been arrested in London on suspicion of terror offences over his alleged involvement in anti-pension reform protests in his home country, his employer has said.

Ernest Moret, who works at Editions La Fabrique, was reportedly detained by police after arriving from Paris at St Pancras railway station on Monday evening.

Mr Moret, who had taken the Eurostar and is the publishers foreign rights manager, was on his way to the London Book Fair, which takes place in Olympia over three days from April 18-20, when officers tried to determine whether he was engaged in terrorist acts or in possession of material for use in terrorism, the firm said.

Officers said he had participated in demonstrations in France over President Emmanuel Macron raising the retirement age from 62 to 64, a joint statement with Verso Books said.

It read: On arrival at St Pancras Station, Ernest was pulled aside by police officers acting under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act 2000 and detained for questioning without a lawyer present, allegedly to determine whether he was engaged in terrorist acts or in possession of material for use in terrorism.

The police officers claimed that Ernest had participated in demonstrations in France as a justification for this act  a quite remarkably inappropriate statement for a British police officer to make and which seems to clearly indicate complicity between French and British authorities on this matter.

It was demanded that he give up his phone and pass codes to the officers, with no justification or explanation offered. This morning, Ernest was formally arrested and transferred to a police station, accused of obstruction because of his refusal to give up his pass codes. He remains in police custody.

We consider these actions to be outrageous and unjustifiable infringements of basic principles of the freedom of expression and an example of the abuse of anti-terrorism laws.

We consider that this assault on the freedom of expression of a publisher is yet another manifestation of the slide towards repressive and authoritarian measures taken by the current French government in the face of widespread popular discontent and protest.

Youths scuffle with police in Paris during a demonstration in Paris on April 13 (Lewis Joly/AP)

It is crucial for all defenders of basic democratic values to express in the strongest terms that we find this intolerable and outrageous.

On Tuesday afternoon, a Metropolitan Police spokesperson said: At around 1930hrs on Monday April 17, a 28-year-old man was stopped by ports officers as he arrived at St Pancras station, using powers under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act 2000.

On Tuesday April 18, the man was subsequently arrested on suspicion of wilfully obstructing a Schedule 7 examination (contrary to section 18 of the Terrorism Act 2000).

French diplomatic sources said Mr Moret was released on Tuesday evening although the PA news agency has not been able to confirm that with the Metropolitan Police.

A diplomatic source told PA that on Tuesday morning the French Embassy was informed by Mr Morets employers of his arrest in London the previous evening, in relation to checks carried out by the British authorities on the UKs borders.

The Embassy took all the necessary steps with the relevant UK authorities to ensure that the interested party could, if he so wished, fully and immediately benefit from consular protection.

Our compatriot was released by the UK authorities this evening, they said.
GCHQ chief Sir Jeremy Fleming has given ministers a clear-eyed analysis of the risks posed by artificial intelligence (AI).

Downing Street said Prime Minister Rishi Sunak used the same Cabinet meeting on Tuesday to stress the importance of AI to UK national security and the economy, amid growing debates about how to regulate the rapidly developing technology.

Sir Jeremy, who spoke alongside Government chief scientific adviser Professor Dame Angela McLean, spoke about the potential applications and risks of AI.

Downing Street gave little detail about what specific risks the GCHQ boss warned of  but said the update was a clear-eyed look at the potential for things like disinformation and the importance of people being aware of that.

No 10 also stressed that the benefits of AI were also discussed, and a readout of the meeting said ministers agreed on the transformative potential of AI and the vital importance of retaining public confidence in its use and the need for regulation that keeps people safe without preventing innovation.

The Prime Minister concluded Cabinet by saying that given the importance of AI to our economy and national security, this could be one of the most important policies we pursue in the next few years which is why we must get this right, the readout added.

Asked if the potential for an existential threat to humanity from AI had been considered, the Prime Ministers official spokesman said: We are well aware of the potential risks posed by artificial general intelligence.

The spokesman said Michelle Donelans science ministry was leading on that issue, but the Governments policy was to have appropriate, flexible regulation which can move swiftly to deal with what is a changing technology.

As the public would expect, we are looking to both make the most of the opportunities but also to guard against the potential risk, the spokesman added.

The Government used the recent refresh of the integrated review to launch a new government-industry AI-focused task force on the issue, modelled on the vaccines task force used during the Covid pandemic.

Italy last month said it would temporarily block the artificial intelligence software ChatGPT amid global debate about the power of such new tools.

The AI systems powering such chatbots, known as large language models, are able to mimic human writing styles based on the huge trove of digital books and online writings they have ingested.

Mr Sunak, who created a new Department for Science, Innovation & Technology in a Whitehall reshuffle earlier this year, is known to be enthusiastic about making the UK a science superpower.
The Government has been accused of lacking direction and focus on social care reform after it sought to address confusion over controversial spending plans announced earlier this month.

The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has confirmed that about 20% of the 700 million already earmarked for the next two years will be held back until the impact of various measures are assessed.

This is in addition to a further sum of at least 600 million of the 1.7 billion announced by Boris Johnsons government in 2021 for vital reforms also remaining unallocated.

The next steps for reform published on April 4, which the Government said would build on pledges made in the People at the Heart of Care White Paper published in December 2021, were widely criticised for halving investment in the social care workforce to 250 million.

The Government says it remains committed to former prime minister Boris Johnsons pledge to fix social care (Jonathan Brady/PA)

The plan specified an initial minimum spend totalling 572 million on various measures, about 80% of the 700 million stated in the policy paper, leading to questions over the remaining funding.

The DHSC said these measures include at least 250 million for workforce reforms, more than 100 million for digitising social care, and 102 million for housing support.

In addition, up to 50 million was allocated for improving data and 35 million each for innovation and for joining up support services.

But the policy paper also mentions a further 15 million for accessing international recruitment, 3 million for supporting volunteers, and 25 million for additional support for unpaid carers.

The DHSC has confirmed that these funding pledges are included in the categories for the minimum 572 million allocation.

Simon Bottery, senior fellow at the Kings Fund think tank, said the figures show social care is being short-changed due to the gap between the original pledge of 1.7 billion in funding to fix the sector and current spending plans.

Overall, it confirms the picture of a Government that has lost any sense of direction and focus on reform of social care reform, he said.

Social care minister Helen Whately (Chris McAndrew/UK Parliament/PA)

Mr Bottery said this funding gap is likely to include a 100 million cut caused by the loss of savings the Government was expecting to make from the now-postponed cap on care costs and changes to the means test.

He added that the DHSC has confirmed it has already spent 300 million of the funding allocated in 2021 but has not clarified where the money went.

On the remaining funding, Mr Bottery said: It is most likely to go into short-term measures to shore up the existing system, and, in particular, to reduce delayed discharges from hospital, rather than towards the widescale reform of social care that (the Government) promised when it came into office.

It is a mark of this loss of direction that it is still developing delivery and spending plans 16 months after its original White Paper was published.

Mr Bottery said there is concern over a lack of clarity on planned spending at a time when all the trends in adult social care are going in the wrong direction.

He added: We have more people asking for support, but fewer people getting it. We have got the highest vacancy rate the sector has ever seen and we have got the lowest public satisfaction with adult social care since we started collecting data.

The Government came in with a promise to fix social care and it talked about a programme for reform, but what is happening is the reform has been scaled back and scaled back and is now a fragment of the overall package.

That is a damning indictment of the Governments social care strategy.

In a foreword to the next steps plan, social care minister Helen Whately said: For decades, adult social care has not had the attention, resource or support from Government that it deserves. But we are changing that.

A DHSC spokesman said: We are committed to bettering care for everyone and are supporting social care with up to 7.5 billion over the next two years.

This month we set out the next steps in our plan to reform social care, backed by 700 million over the next two years to put people at the heart of care.

Our remaining funding, up to 600 million, has not yet been allocated.

We are considering how best to use this, including further investment in workforce, and will target this remaining funding on measures that will have the most impact.
The family of a British-Israeli woman killed with her daughters in the West Bank said the Government and the media must make it clear that terrorism is completely unacceptable.

Lucy Dee, 48, died three days after her daughters, Rina, 15, and Maia, 20, were shot dead on April 7.

The family of seven, who moved to Israel from the UK in 2014, were travelling in separate cars en route to a Passover holiday.

Mrs Dees widower Leo Dee is a rabbi and they have a son and two other daughters.

On Tuesday, a ministerial visit was made to Mrs Dees family at the north London home of her brother Benjamin Shaw.

The Shaw family is observing the Jewish mourning period of Shiva, having returned home from Israel, where Rabbi Dee remains.

Speaking to minister for the Middle East Lord Ahmad and Baron Polak, Mr Shaw referred to a letter sent to the family from Foreign Secretary James Cleverly, who said there is no justification for the killings.

Mr Shaw said: The only way I can think of dealing with it, what the Government has done, is (to say) that any acts of terrorism, wherever they are, are completely unacceptable.

Hopefully, eventually, if everyone, particularly in the media, say that  the media isnt always so clear-cut in their reporting  then eventually the message will get through to the terrorists that every time you do a terrorist attack its not going to get you brownie points, its going to be negative points.

Lord Ahmad, who is Muslim, told the family his mother raised him to view Judaism as the foundation of the Muslim faith.

She said that as Muslims we believe that the foundation of our faith is Judaism, he said.

Without the foundation of Judaism there would not be the walls of Christianity, and without the walls of Christianity there would not be the roof of Islam.

The other doors and windows represent other faiths and beliefs and ultimately how we come together in the house of God.

He added: To an eight-year-old munching on his toast and a glass of milk it was a very colourful but digestible understanding that religion was not about conflict but about learning from each other.

At the end of their meeting, Lord Ahmad and Baron Polak offered their condolences to the family.

Baron Polak said: Today is Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Memorial Day. In some ways, you have experienced your own holocaust as a family.

I just hope and pray that in the days to come you will be able to remember the happy days you had as a family.

Speaking to the PA news agency after meeting Lord Ahmad and Baron Polak, Mr Shaw said he would like to meet Mr Cleverly and thank him for his support.
This April 14 photo provided by North Korea's official Korean Central News Agency shows the North's new solid-fuel Hwasong-18 intercontinental ballistic missile, test-fired the previous day under the guidance of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. Yonhap



South Korea's top envoy at the United Nations called Monday on permanent members of the U.N. Security Council (UNSC) to take "extraordinary responsibility" to curb North Korea's nuclear provocations.



Addressing a session of the council, Ambassador Hwang Joon-kook stressed that Pyongyang is the "first and only case" that has flouted the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) regime and openly developed nuclear weapons and delivery systems.



Hwang said the UNSC's response to the North's nuclear provocations will serve as a "litmus test on the credibility and the viability" of the council and its role in upholding the global NPT regime.



"In this regard, the five nuclear weapon states under the NPT regime, which coincide with the five permanent members of the Security Council, should show extraordinary responsibility," he said.



Under the NPT, five nations  the United States, Russia, China, Britain, and France  are recognized as nuclear-weapon states. Pyongyang withdrew from the NPT in 2003.



"Even as we speak now, the DPRK is buying enough time to further advance its unlawful nuclear and missile programs according to its own plan, which aims to deploy its nuclear arsenal for full-fledged operation, taking advantage of the weakened implementation of Security Council sanctions," the envoy said, referring to the North by its official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.



Since the beginning of 2022, Pyongyang has launched more than 80 ballistic missiles, including last week's test-firing of a new solid-fuel Hwasong-18 intercontinental ballistic missile.



China and Russia, both veto power-wielding permanent members of the council, have blocked UNSC meetings held since last year to impose additional sanctions on North Korea in response to its military provocations. (Yonhap)


First Minister Humza Yousaf said he has not spoken to his predecessor Nicola Sturgeon in the last couple of weeks, as he rejected calls to suspend both her and her husband from the SNP amid the ongoing police probe into the partys finances.

Mr Yousafs comments came as the police investigation saw SNP treasurer Colin Beattie arrested and questioned by detectives.

The arrest of Mr Beattie, 71, who is also the MSP for Midlothian North and Musselburgh, comes less than two weeks after Ms Sturgeons husband was arrested as part of the same investigation.

Peter Murrell, the former SNP chief executive, was questioned by officers on Wednesday April 5 as officers searched the home the couple share. He was later released without charge, pending further inquiries.

The Constituency Office of Colin Beattie MSP in Dalkeith (Jane Barlow/PA)

Police Scotland have been looking into how more than 600,000 in donations to the party earmarked for an independence referendum had been used  but Mr Yousaf said today he would not be speaking to his predecessor about the investigation.

The First Minister told journalists at Holyrood: I havent spoken to Nicola in the last couple of weeks, but I will get to speak to Nicola, I am certain I will.

But one thing Nicola and I will not be talking about is the police investigation. That would be wholly inappropriate.

Scottish Tory deputy leader Meghan Gallacher however said Mr Yousaf should tackle this scandal head-on and prove he is his own man by suspending both the former first minister and her husband.

Speaking in Holyrood, Ms Gallacher said: The SNP is in total meltdown.

Its former chief executive and now its current treasurer have been arrested amid a police investigation into the partys finances.

And leaked footage has shown Nicola Sturgeon trying to shut down scrutiny.

Scottish Tories called for former SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon to be suspended from the party, along with her husband, former chief executive Peter Murrell (Andrew Milligan/PA)

Her comments came after Scottish Conservative chairman Craig Hoy called for Mr Beattie, Mr Murrell and Ms Sturgeon to be suspended from the SNP.

Mr Hoy said: This extremely serious matter is escalating by the day and everyone in the SNP has a duty to be as transparent as possible about what they knew and when.

But Mr Yousaf said it was a really important point of natural law that people are presumed innocent until guilty.

He said he would consider the situation if charges are brought by police, saying if that was the case we may well have to take that course of action.

The First Minister stated: Of course if they are guilty I would take the appropriate action, whether that is suspension or going further than that.

But it is really important due process takes place.

A 71-year-old man has today, Tuesday, 18 April 2023, been arrested as a suspect in connection with the ongoing investigation into the funding and finances of the Scottish National Party. https://t.co/crTiTkBNTH pic.twitter.com/Pm3vwsQhqm  Police Scotland (@PoliceScotland) April 18, 2023

Earlier on Tuesday, Police Scotland confirmed Mr Beattie had been arrested in connection with the ongoing investigation into the funding and finances of the Scottish National Party.

A report will be submitted to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, the force added.

An SNP spokesperson said: We have no comment on a live police investigation.

Mr Beattie was the SNPs national treasurer between 2004 and 2020, losing the position to MP Douglas Chapman.

However, Mr Chapman quit the post in 2021, claiming he was not being given the required information to carry out the job.

Mr Beattie reclaimed the post soon afterwards, and reportedly told the partys ruling body on Saturday the SNP would struggle to balance the books  reports that have since been disputed by senior figures including former Westminster leader Ian Blackford.

No amount of spin can hide the fact that Scotland has a dysfunctional SNP government. Its time for change. pic.twitter.com/OWCEdqMaCf  Anas Sarwar (@AnasSarwar) April 18, 2023

There was no sign of police activity outside Mr Beatties address in Dalkeith, Midlothian, on Tuesday morning, or outside his constituency office in the town.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said the SNP is in a real mess.

During a visit to York University, he was asked about the arrest of Mr Beattie.

Sir Keir told broadcasters: The SNP developments are deeply concerning.

Obviously there is a criminal investigation going on, so there is only so much I can say.

But after 16 years in power, it has descended to this  a real mess  and those being let down are Scottish voters, who are entitled to better than this.

Meanwhile, Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar said the news of the arrest meant the SNP was no longer a functioning government.

This is an SNP mired in scandal, mired in division, talking to themselves about themselves, and the crisis that now engulfs the SNP is not just an indication of how they govern their party, but also how they govern our country.
An inquest will investigate how a man was deemed to pose a low risk of serious harm by probation services before going on to murder his partner and three children.

Terri Harris, 35, her daughter Lacey Bennett, 11, her son John Paul Bennett, 13, and Laceys friend Connie Gent, 11, were killed with a claw hammer by Damien Bendall at their home in Killamarsh, Derbyshire, in September 2021.

Bendall, who had a history of serious and violent offences dating back to 2004, had been described by one probation officer as cold and calculated and quite psychopathic but was classed as posing a low risk of serious harm to partners and children.

A review of how the Probation Service handled Bendall prior to the murders, ordered by the Justice Secretary, Dominic Raab, found that his supervision was of an unacceptable standard at every stage and critical opportunities to correct errors were missed.

At a pre-inquest review hearing into the deaths of Ms Harris, Lacey, Paul and Connie at Chesterfield Coroners Court on Tuesday, Peter Nieto, area coroner for Derby and Derbyshire, said that four separate inquests would be held at the same time into the deaths.

He said: There has been an Inspectorate of Probation report produced in January and that report obviously raises a number of issues in relation to the assessment and management of the defendant, and whether different management might have made a difference, which from our point of view may mean that there was a prospect that the deaths could have been avoided.

The inquests are going to require particular scrutiny of the ways that Damien Bendall was managed and assessed.

We need to understand who was involved and how any contribution from any agency involved contributed to the deaths.

Bendall, who was expecting a child with Ms Harris when he committed the murders, was given four whole life tariffs for the killings, and another for raping Lacey, in December last year.

Connie Gent (Derbyshire Police/PA)

In January, Chief Inspector of Probation Justin Russell said that a catalogue of errors and missed opportunities in Bendalls supervision saw him categorised as posing a low risk of causing serious harm to partners and children, and a medium risk to the public, and being supervised by inexperienced staff and heavily overloaded line managers.

That was despite Bendall being given a suspended sentence for arson just weeks before the murders, domestic abuse allegations being made by a previous partner and concerns being raised over his contact with a 16-year-old girl in foster care.

After the arson, probation staff decided he was suitable to be put under curfew at home with Ms Harris  an assessment the watchdog concluded was dangerous and entirely inappropriate.

No attempt was made to speak to Ms Harris or visit the property and there is no evidence that essential domestic abuse and child safeguarding checks were carried out by the probation officers making this decision, Mr Russell said, as he agreed no mandatory requirement to do so was extraordinary.

Damien Bendall (Derbyshire Police/PA)

At the hearing on Tuesday, Mr Nieto said that the inquests should not be a re-run of the Inspectorates very helpful report, and would also consider whether changes had already been made by the Probation Service and agencies involved in Bendalls supervision.

David Sandiford, representing the Ministry of Justice and HM Prison and Probation Service, said that the organisations continue to express their deepest sympathy to the families of the victims and added that all 17 recommendations made in the Inspectorates report had all been accepted and reviewed.

Relatives of the victims were present at the hearing, as well as representatives of Derbyshire Constabulary, the Ministry of Justice, Derbyshire County Council and Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.

Angie Smith, the mother of Ms Harris, has launched a campaign, named Terris Fight, calling for relatives to be able to more easily access information on partners they are concerned about.

Mr Nieto said another pre-inquest review would be held in June or July.
The Government has been accused of being out of its depth and of living in very dangerous type of denial about the scale of Irelands housing crisis during a fiery Dail exchange.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar gave a staunch response of his partys track record on social housing delivery, claiming that it had doubled during his last tenure as Irish premier.

He also claimed that Sinn Feins record on social housing in Northern Ireland and Labours in the housing portfolio was less than that delivered by his Government.

Labour leader Ivana Bacik said he had reached a new low in ridiculous political point-scoring, accusing the Fine Gael leader of being smug.

Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald called on the Irish government to reinstate the eviction ban and extend it until the end of January while further supports are put in place.

Commenting on Government claims that the measures introduced would support people, she said: You are clearly in a state of denial and a very, very dangerous type of denial.

Mr Varadkar, in turn, accused Sinn Fein of gaslighting young people, and claimed that Labour was suffering from a crisis of confidence.

He said that Sinn Feins motion scheduled for Tuesday, that calls on the Governments Help-to-Buy scheme and First Home scheme to be ended, would impact on homeownership.

Sinn Fein Party leader Mary Lou McDonald hit out at Government housing policy (Niall Carson/PA)

Youve gaslighted young people and first-time buyers into thinking that youre on their side. You are not, you will take away the schemes that are working, he said.

The Sinn Fein motion accuses both schemes of pushing up house prices and said they should be scrapped and the funding diverted in favour of delivering more affordable homes instead.

Ms McDonald told TDs: Your so-called safety nets dont make a lick of difference to people facing eviction in the here and now. And you have no real plan to stop people losing the roof over their heads.

Mr Varadkar claimed that figures published by the Department of Housing on Monday, which confirmed that the Government had missed its 2022 target for newly-built social homes, showed progress had been achieved.

Labour Party leader Ivana Bacik said Mr Varadkar was smug (Brian Lawless/PA)

20,000 households provided with social housing of some form last year, their housing needs being met. 10,000 homes added to the whole social housing stock, of which about 7,500 were new builds.

Compare that, for example, with the last year in which there was a Sinn Fein housing minister in Northern Ireland  build less than 2,000 new social houses.

Thats a fact, and one that I dont think you can get away from, he said.

Ms McDonald responded that the figures published on Monday, reflect the fact that you missed your target on affordable housing by almost 60% last year.

Now if you count that as achievement, or if you as Taoiseach regard that as an acceptable level of performance, well then God help us all is all I can say, she said.

In response to questions from Ms Bacik, Mr Varadkar said: How many social homes were built the last time there was a Labour minister for housing?

When Labour TD Aodhan ORiordain interrupted to accuse the Taoiseach of point scoring, Mr Varadkar responded to be accused of point-scoring by deputy ORiordain is  anyway, look.

He continued: The last time there was a Labour minister in housing  and yes, I was at the Cabinet table with them  400 new social homes were built in this country. By the time (former housing minister and Fine Gael TD) Eoghan Murphy had finished in his role, we were up to around 5,000.

The amount of social housing built in the State doubled the last time I was Taoiseach, and now under Darragh OBrien, were building more social housing than any year in decades and were going to build more again.

Ms Bacik: Youve reached a new low, that is a ridiculous attempt (of) political point scoring in the face of a brutal housing crisis  and its all very well smirking and being smug and self congratulatory.

Thats not going to help the families approaching me, approaching public representatives from Government parties and opposition parties, who have nowhere to tell people to go because there are no homes available in our communities, no affordable homes, no homes to rent, no homes for sale.

Its a testament to the failed policies of Fianna Fail and Fine Gael and your overreliance on a private sector and on a market that has patently failed to deliver the homes that are needed, she said.

Mr Varadkar responded: Deputy, you simply cant have it both ways. You cant challenge me, my party and my coalition colleagues on our record and then lose the rag when somebody asks about yours.

If youre willing to criticise somebody elses record, you have to at least be able to defend your own and youre not willing to do that. And I think thats very, very disappointing, but it is part of Labours crisis of confidence  youve lost confidence in yourselves.
If you're from Merseyside you're more likely to suffer from a lack of sleep. (Getty Images)

As many as two in three people (65%) in England fail to get seven hours of sleep a night, new data shows.

And depending on which county you live in, you may be hit by a lack of shut-eye more than others.

Merseyside is the most sleep-deprived area, with almost three-quarters (74.4%) of respondents falling short of seven hours, the minimum amount recommended by the NHS.

Meanwhile, aside from quantity, nearly half describe the quality of their sleep here as 'poor'.

Read more: How to stay awake when tired

The most sleep-deprived industries include those working in property services, science and transport, such as train and taxi drivers. (Getty Images)

Kent comes in a close second with 74.42% of respondents not sleeping for long enough, according to the study of 5012 adults from sleep technology firm Simba.

Shropshire (72.55%), County of Bristol (72.50%) and Bedfordshire (72.06%) complete the top five most sleep-deprived areas in England.

Meanwhile, Norfolk, Buckinghamshire, Berkshire, West Midlands and Northamptonshire all have poor sleep scores.

Are you from one of these exhausted counties? (Simba)

"We can see that Merseyside could have the least sleep out of any across England, because of higher self-reported levels of less exercise and access to nature  two things we know are great for helping us to sleep better," says Lisa Artis, deputy CEO at Simbas charity partner, The Sleep Charity.

"Greater access to the outdoors and lower reported noise pollution are likely to play a part in why residents in Dorset and West Sussex enjoy higher than average sleep consumption."

Plus, Artis adds, "In Norfolk and the West Midlands, lower levels of exercise and higher than average levels of alcohol consumption may also be fuelling their sleep deficit  bolted to higher rates of noise pollution reported by the latter.

"Although Bedfordshire rated highly for minimal noise pollution and access to green spaces, levels of alcohol consumption were higher here too."

Read more: What is the TikTok colour noise trend and can it help you sleep better?

If you're from Cambridgeshire you're more likely to be well-rested. (Simba)

On the flip side, the most well-rested county is Cambridgeshire, where just 58% of people get too little sleep (or 42% get more than seven hours). Hampshire, Lincolnshire, East Sussex and Dorset also fare better, among other areas.

But overall, an alarming 72% of people in England report waking up in the morning feeling like they have had insufficient sleep, while one in four (26%) regularly feel tired and struggle to concentrate during the day.

Brits should be getting seven to nine hours of sleep every night, while children need nine to 13 hours and toddlers and babies 12 to 17. A lack of sleep can increase the risk of health issues like obesity, heart disease and diabetes, while having less than seven hours can impair concentration levels and the chances of work or car-related accidents.

A further 33% of adults who routinely fail to get the bare minimum of shut-eye report increased levels of depression and anxiety, in contrast to just 22% of those who average more than the recommended amount.

Plus, the data shows higher rates of irritability, lower sex drive and more illness within those who are sleep-deprived.

Paying attention to sleep hygiene is one of the best ways that you can set yourself up for better slumber; creating a bedroom environment that creates consistent and quality sleep," adds Artis.

Read more: 10 expert-approved ways to sleep better, as millions of adults complain of being 'tired all the time'

If you work in one of these industries it's likely you sleep for less than seven hours a night. (Simba)

It seems the type of job and salary you have also impacts sleep. Almost half (45.89%) of English workers earning over 75,000 regularly clock up more than seven hours, versus just 23% on Job Seekers Allowance.

Those who work in facilities and property Services, science (both 76) and transport (75.64%), such as delivery, taxi and train drivers, most regularly get less than seven hours a night.

Meanwhile, people who work in media (50%), engineering (42.3%) and sport (41.7%) are the most well-rested.

10 most sleep-deprived areas in England

The counties that get less than seven hours shut-eye a night.

Merseyside - 74.47% Kent - 74.42% Shropshire - 72.55% County of Bristol - 72.50% Bedfordshire - 72.06% Norfolk - 71.57% Buckinghamshire - 71.15% Berkshire - 71.03% West Midlands - 69.90% Northamptonshire - 69.81%

10 most well-rested areas in England

The counties that get more than seven hours sleep a night.

Cambridgeshire - 42% Hampshire - 41.38% Lincolnshire - 41.28% East Sussex - 41.25% Dorset - 41.10% Wiltshire - 40.43% West Sussex - 40.37% Hertfordshire - 40.26% Worcestershire - 40.00% Oxfordshire - 39.53%

10 most sleep-deprived careers

The industries that get less than seven hours a night.

Facilities & Property Services - 76% Science, Mathematics and Statistics - 76% Transport (Pilot, Driving Instructor, Delivery, Taxi, Bus driver, Train, Post) - 75.64% Construction and Building - 74.84% Homemaker (parent) - 74.55% Hair & Beauty - 72.34% Business & Management - 72% Security, unformed and protective services (Army, Prison, Police etc) - 72.43% Social Work and Caring Services - 70.13% Alternative Therapy - 70%

Watch: Tips if you're struggling to sleep
Chloe-Rose Adkin has followed in her mother Helen's footsteps after they were both crowned winners of national beauty pageants 12 months apart. (Chloe-Rose Adkin/SWNS)

A mum and daughter are celebrating having both been crowned winners of a national beauty pageant just 12 months apart.

Chloe-Rose Adkin, 22, from Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, has followed in her mother's footsteps and is now the new Miss Galaxy 2023, a year after her mum Helen, 58, won the UKs National Classic Ms title at the same venue last summer.

Chloe-Rose has been taking part in pageants since she was 15 after getting scouted for the competitions.

She decided to enter her mum into her first pageant, without her knowing, and a year later Helen was shocked to scoop the winner's crown.

Helen, who is a council worker, said she was apprehensive taking part in the pageant at first and worried she was too old for the stage but soon gained confidence hearing the crowd cheer her on.

Read more: First lesbian Ms Great Britain finalist will use platform to tackle prejudice and empower plus-size women

Helen Adkin after winning the UK's National Classic Ms title last year. (Chloe-Rose Adkin/SWNS)

The mother and daughter duo now enjoy getting ready for competitions together and say its great being able to spend time doing something they both love.

I was trying to get my mum to compete for ages, but in the end I just decided to enter her into a pageant without her knowing," Chloe-Rose, an estate agent, explains.

She had been helping me compete for years, she loves watching them and is always with me anyway, so I thought why not just get her into it as well.

I wanted her to do something for herself and I thought this would be great.

People think we look similar, and everyone knows us as the duo.

Read more: Woman bullied for being 6ft 2 learns to embrace her height to become tallest Miss England contestant

Chloe-Rose Adkin and her mum pictured after Helen won the UK's National Classic Ms title last year. (Chloe-Rose Adkin/SWNS)

Helen, a mum of one, says she taking part made her feel empowered and believes pageants are for everyone.

"When I found out Chloe had entered me, I felt really nervous at first, but I really loved it," she says. "It gave me such a confidence boost.

"There were a lot of other ladies who supported me through it, pageants are not just a young person thing anymore."

Watch: Mechanic ditches repairing cars and greasy overalls to become beauty queen

Having taken her daughter to pageants since her teenage years, Helen says it was great having Chloe-Rose's support for her own event.

"I have been running around at competitions for Chloe for years, so it was really nice for her to be there for me when I needed her," she says.

"At my age we tend to do everything for other people, so it was amazing to just have this for myself and work towards something just for me."

Read more: Instagram campaigner wears purple glittery false eye to inspire others with sight loss

The mother and daughter duo say they love taking part in pageants together. (Chloe-Rose Adkin/SWNS)

Chloe-Rose says it was difficult to watch her mum up on stage as she knew exactly how she would be feeling.

"I was so nervous for her," she explains.

I knew everything she was going through and how nervous she would be so that was hard.

It was a role reversal.

Mum was very apprehensive before the competition, I think she thought she was too old to do it, but she loved it when she was on the stage.

It gave her so much confidence.

Chloe-Rose is now due to represent the UK in Florida in August this year. (Chloe-Rose Adkin/SWNS)

Chloe-Rose will now head to Orlando in August to represent the UK at the Miss Galaxy International Pageant finals, with her mum Helen by her side.

Im so honoured to represent the UK," she says of the forthcoming pageant. "It has been a four-year process and Im excited my dream has finally come true."

Additional reporting SWNS.
Rishi Sunak has paid tribute to Lyra McKee, marking the anniversary of the journalists death in Northern Ireland in 2019.

Ms McKee died after being hit by a bullet during rioting in the Creggan area of Londonderry on April 18 2019, with dissident republican group the New IRA linked to the killing.

The remarks by the Prime Minister, who praised her as the embodiment of a better Northern Ireland, come as the region marks the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement.

In a tribute issued by Downing Street to mark four years since the shooting, Mr Sunak said: Today, we remember Lyra McKee, a journalist who caught the imagination of young people in Northern Ireland.

In strongly rejecting sectarianism, she embodied the Northern Ireland that I see today  one of realising a better Northern Ireland than what had come before her.

We stand united against the insidious ideology of those who stole her dreams and what she could have gone on to contribute.

Ms McKee was remembered as part of an event at the Guildhall in Derry on Tuesday, with Tim Wheeler of the band Ash dedicating a performance of his bands hit Shining Light to her memory.

Mr Wheeler, performing at the Making Hope And History Rhyme event organised by the John and Pat Hume Foundation, told the audience he would like to dedicate the performance to Ms McKee and all her family and friends.

Former US president Bill Clinton also paid tribute to Ms McKee as he attended a special screening in Belfast of a film about her alongside ex-US secretary of state Hillary Clinton.

He described the film while addressing the event in Londonderry on Tuesday as wonderful.

Mr Clinton said her life is a testament to the unlimited potential of the people of her generation.

Her death is a powerful reminder that there are few permanent victories in politics or life, he said.

We owe it to her to, in her words, to say goodbye to bombs and bullets once and for all.
Colm Murphy, who was found liable in a civil trial for the 1998 Omagh bomb atrocity, has died.

Murphy, 70, a Dundalk-based contractor and publican originally from Co Armagh, died in Co Louth.

A death notice on Tuesday said he had died at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda with funeral details to be announced later.

The Real IRA bomb killed 29 people, including a woman pregnant with unborn twins, just months after the Good Friday Agreement was signed.

The bombing killed 29 people (Paul McErlane/PA)

Murphy was originally arrested over the bombing in 1999 in a joint RUC-Garda investigation. He was charged with conspiracy to cause an explosion likely to endanger life or cause injury as well as membership of the Real IRA.

In 2002 he was found guilty by the Dublin Special Criminal Court of conspiracy to cause the Omagh bombing and jailed for 14 years.

However, his conviction was overturned in 2005 and a new trial ordered.

In 2008 the families of some of the victims of the bombing begin a landmark civil case, suing five men they claimed were involved, including Murphy.

The following year in Belfast a judge in the civil trial ruled that Murphy and four others were all liable for the Omagh bomb, ordering them to pay a total of 1.6 million damages to 12 relatives who took the case.

Colm Murphy was found liable in a civil trial (Julien Behal/PA)

In the criminal case, Murphy was cleared after a retrial in 2010, after interview evidence from the Garda was ruled inadmissible.

In 2011 he won an appeal against the civil trial verdict, but he was again found liable after a civil retrial in 2013.

Last year, a judge in Belfast recommended the UK Government carry out an investigation into the bombing, and urged the Irish Government to do likewise, after finding plausible arguments that there had been a real prospect of preventing the atrocity.

In February the UK Government ordered an independent inquiry into the bombing.
Tanaiste Micheal Martin has affirmed the Irish governments commitment to working with the UK Government to guarantee the Good Friday Agreement.

Speaking at Queens University Belfast alongside Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris, the Irish deputy premier said the UK and Irish governments had a shared responsibility to the agreement.

The Good Friday Agreement includes provisions for a north/south ministerial council and a British-Irish council to promote co-operation between both governments and the Northern Ireland Executive.

This anniversary of the agreement is a reminder that our shared responsibility, our role as co-guarantors, is not a matter of party, policy or preference, it is a solemn responsibility on our two governments, a treaty responsibility enshrined in the 1998 British-Irish agreement, he said.

And it is a responsibility underpinned by the explicit democratic values and wishes of the people in both parts of this island.

It is no secret that our two governments have not always acted in concert at all times in recent years. Even today, there are areas where we disagree fundamentally, such as on the Legacy Bill.

But I am delighted to say that our partnership is manifestly better now than it has been for quite some time.

Of course, like everything else of value, it needs continued care, commitment and investment.

Mr Martin also said his government is committed to all-island co-operation.

This is a small island, regardless of your constitutional preference, it is a shared space, he said.

The geography wont change and there are things that it makes sense to do on an all-island basis.

He added: We are prompting and hosting new conversations, through our Shared Island Dialogue series, about what does it mean to share this island.

The Stormont government is currently not operational due to the DUPs protest against post-Brexit trading arrangements.

Mr Martin called for the return of devolved government, saying the UK Government stretched themselves to achieve the Windsor Framework.

The past few years, with the practicalities of Brexit, have been turbulent for Northern Ireland, and for these islands, he said.

The European Commission and the UK Government stretched themselves in recent months to reach an accommodation that works for Northern Ireland.

I know that turbulence will take some time to settle, that parties need to pause and reflect internally on next steps.

But I urge all elected officials to take their seats in the Assembly and the Executive and get to work on the questions of everyday life that matter to the people of Northern Ireland, including healthcare, education, policing, regional imbalances and much more.

Micheal Martin speaking during the conference at Queens University Belfast (Niall Carson/PA)

Mr Martin echoed the sentiment of former US secretary of state Hillary Clinton at the conference yesterday when he called for Northern Ireland parties to find the spirit of the Good Friday Agreement.

Let us recapture and renew that generous spirit of the agreement, he said.

Lets make the effort again to see this place and see what has happened through the eyes of those we dont agree with.

When we do, I am certain that we will recognise the potential of the opportunity before us.

The potential of a decade of investment and renewal, the potential of our young people when they are given an education and the chance to thrive, potential that we dare not squander.
A gun-style licensing regime should be set up for machete owners, ministers have been told.

Conservative MP Anna Firth, whose predecessor Sir David Amess was fatally stabbed during a constituency surgery, made the call as she warned reckless retailers will seek to circumvent proposals to tighten knife laws in England and Wales.

The Government wants to ban more machetes and zombie knives, introduce tougher sentences for their sale and possession, and give police more powers to seize and destroy the weapons.

Under current laws, if police find a machete or other legal blade in someones home they cannot seize or act upon it, even if they believe the items will be used in crime.

Conservative MP Anna Firth addresses the House of Commons (PA)

Ms Firth, MP for Southend West, told the Commons: Im absolutely delighted to hear this announcement today because machetes and knives have been used in my constituency with tragic consequences, quite apart from what happened to Sir David.

The devil is always in the detail. Im delighted to hear that were going to be considering tightening up the definition on zombie knives, which is obviously needed.

Im also delighted to hear that once theyre prohibited, of course, the importation and manufacture and sale of them will be illegal.

But reckless retailers are expert at circumventing the law and that is what has happened here.

So could I urge the minister to consider going even further and having a licensing scheme for machetes in this country, similar to gun licences.

There are some legitimate uses for machetes but not many and that way at least we can make sure we get every machete off the streets and out of our homes and prevent these appalling crimes and tragedies from happening.

Home Office minister Chris Philp (PA)

Home Office minister Chris Philp paid tribute to Ms Firth for her tireless and very effective campaigning on the issue.

He added: We do intend to be very strict with retailers. The ban will apply to machetes where there is no obvious legitimate purpose and retailers will be committing a criminal offence if they sell them.

We should have no tolerance at all, as she says, for any retailer who seeks to circumvent or break the law by selling machetes that will be banned.

Conservative former minister Mark Francois, a friend of Sir Davids, earlier said he understood some zombie knives could only be banned because of what is written on them.

He also sought assurances that the proposals will stop people buying zombie knives online in the UK or from overseas.

Mr Philp replied: I can confirm that zombie knives which do not have any writing on them will be covered by the proposals made.

He added: People directly selling online prohibited items, that is straight up illegal.

In relation to selling on marketplaces, following discussions with colleagues in the new Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, I have been assured that the Online Safety Bill will cover online marketplaces when it comes to selling items like this.

So with the passage of the Online Safety Bill, the kind of provisions hes asking will apply.

Conservative MP James Daly (PA)

James Daly, Conservative MP for Bury North, said: Following a recent meeting with my local chief superintendent, he set out it is a matter of course for many young people in Bury to carry a knife.

The excuse when they are stopped is that its for self-defence purposes. What happens then? The police take the knife but there is no prosecution.

The problem with this, and we always do it in this House, is we talk about words on a piece of paper. Unless the police actually prosecute and take action against people for possession of weapons, this problem will never be sorted out.

Mr Philp, in his reply, said: It is my view, like it is (Mr Dalys) view, that police where they arrest somebody in possession of a knife should follow up, there should be a prosecution and, certainly, where appropriate, there should be custody as well or rehabilitative work where thats appropriate.

Labours Pat McFadden highlighted the case of Ronan Kanda, who died in a stabbing attack in Wolverhampton last year.

The MP for Wolverhampton South East urged the Government to bring in the ban on the sale of machetes and other similar knives as soon as possible.

Mr Philp replied: We will proceed as quickly as we possibly can.
Free-range eggs will return to supermarket shelves in the coming days as restrictions preventing the spread of bird flu have started to lift.

Since early November, keepers have been required to house flocks indoors and away from wildlife to reduce the spread of avian influenza.

It compounded existing nationwide shortages of eggs, with some supermarkets limiting the number of boxes customers can buy.

Higher energy bills, along with the soaring costs of chicken feed, hens and packaging, have forced producers to cut back on output.

But, from Tuesday, eggs labelled free range will be back in shops as hens will again have access to outdoor areas.

The Government said bird flu risk levels have reduced to medium which means poultry and other captive birds no longer need to be housed.

Since early November, keepers have been required to house flocks indoors and away from wildlife to reduce the spread of bird flu (Joe Giddens/PA)

But chief veterinary officer Christine Middlemiss stressed it is more important than ever for birdkeepers to remain vigilant for signs of the disease and maintain scrupulous biosecurity standards.

The UK has faced its largest ever outbreak of bird flu with more than 330 cases confirmed across the country since late October 2021.

Experts have warned that, despite the relaxation of restrictions, the disease is still around in wild birds.

Robert Gooch, chief executive of the British Free-Range Egg Producers Association, said there is a sense of trepidation among farmers even though it is good news for birds that have been kept inside over the winter months, and for consumers who want to buy free-range eggs.

Food standards bodies have reassured the public that avian influenza poses a very low risk to UK consumers, and there is no impact on properly cooked poultry and eggs.
South Korean chief nuclear negotiator Kim Gunn speaks during talks with his U.S. and Japanese counterparts over North Korea's denuclearization at the foreign ministry in Seoul, April 7. Yonhap



South Korea's chief nuclear negotiator has met with a senior Swedish diplomat in Stockholm to discuss cooperation on the denuclearization of North Korea, Seoul's foreign ministry said Tuesday.



During the meeting with Swedish State Secretary for Foreign Affairs Jan Knutsson on Monday, Kim Gunn, special representative for Korean Peninsula peace and security affairs, discussed ways for the South to cooperate on the North's denuclearization with Sweden, as well as with the European Union. Sweden currently holds the presidency of the Council of the EU.



Also, Kim stressed the need to better inform the international community of the North's serious human rights situation. Knutsson called for stronger bilateral ties and cooperation while stressing that security of the Korean Peninsula, the Indo-Pacific and Europe are inseparable. (Yonhap)


Hundreds of civil servants working in JobCentres are to stage a fresh strike in a long-running dispute over jobs, pay, pensions and conditions.

The Public and Commercial Services union (PCS) said more than 600 of its members at 13 JobCentres in Glasgow and Liverpool will walk out for five days from May 2.

The union said Glasgow has been targeted for disruptive action because it is one of the areas piloting a scheme on claimants having to attend an office several times over two weeks, while Liverpool will face action because of plans to close a local JobCentre.

  ! Civil Servants working in  in Glasgow & Liverpool are to take 5 days strike action next month. PCS members will walk out from 2-6 May This targeted action will severely disrupt the DWPs ill-thought plans#PCSonStrike  PCS Union (@pcs_union) April 18, 2023

PCS members are this week on strike in the Passport Office, Ofgem, and Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency ahead of a nationwide walkout by 133,000 civil servants on April 28.

General secretary Mark Serwotka said: This targeted action in Glasgow and Liverpool will severely disrupt the DWPs ill-thought-out plans.

Ministers might have hoped our members anger had dissipated as our dispute has gone on, but it hasnt, and it wont until ministers make a meaningful offer.

A Department for Work and Pensions spokesperson said: We greatly value the work of our staff but the PCS unions demands would cost the country an unaffordable 2.4 billion at a time when our focus must be on bringing down inflation to ease the pressure on households across the country.

Benefits, the state pension and child maintenance payments are paid automatically and people who rely on that support will continue to receive it.
Charities and campaign groups have warned that new rules for energy suppliers which restrict the forced use of prepayment meters do not go far enough and must be firmly enforced.

The End Fuel Poverty Coalition said the plans fail to deal with concerns over energy debt relief for those most in need.

On Tuesday, energy watchdog Ofgem revealed that household suppliers in England, Scotland and Wales have agreed to a new code of practice which includes a ban on forcibly installing prepayment meters (PPMs) in the homes of people over the age of 85.

Energy firms will now only be able to force-fit prepayment meters if they stick to a set of voluntary restrictions.

PPMs have been in the spotlight after some energy suppliers, including British Gas, were caught breaking into the homes of people struggling to pay their bills to forcibly install them.

The tougher rules also mean that energy suppliers and their contractors must make at least 10 attempts to contact a customer and carry out a site welfare visit before a PPM can be installed.

Suppliers will also need to avoid forced installations where a continuous supply of energy is needed for health reasons, such as for the terminally ill.

Energy firms will also be required to make representatives fitting meters wear body cameras or audio equipment.

When it comes to involuntary switching to prepayment meters, we are making sure consumers are better protected We have launched a tough new code of practice that all British domestic energy suppliers are now signed up to Read more here https://t.co/BCmVkXeCdO pic.twitter.com/dFRZEd0oSY  Ofgem (@ofgem) April 18, 2023

Ofgem chief executive Jonathan Brearley said: Ofgems new voluntary code of practice is a minimum standard that clearly sets out steps all suppliers must take before moving to a PPM.

If and when involuntary PPMs are used, it must be as a last resort, and customers in vulnerable situations will be given the extra care and consideration they deserve, over and above the rules already in place, by suppliers  something that has clearly not always been happening.

The new rules are a voluntary code of practice for suppliers and the regulator said it will consult on whether the voluntary code of practice can be made legally binding ahead of the next winter.

Suppliers will also now need to place 30 worth of credit on any meter they install with a warrant.

Cases must also be reassessed by suppliers once a customer has repaid debts owed.

Disability equality charity Scope is among those calling for the restrictions to go further in clamping down on suppliers.

Tom Marsland, the charitys policy manager, said: This is a welcome step forward from Ofgem. It will now be clearer when the rules are broken, and remote switching will be included.

But this process will still allow energy companies to install prepayment meters in some disabled households.

We want to see the forced installation of meters and remote switching banned outright for disabled people.

Simon Francis, co-ordinator of the End Fuel Poverty Coalition, raised concerns that the new rules will not address financial concerns.

There are really vulnerable groups which have been omitted from its full protection and we have serious concerns about how it will be implemented, such as how people will prove their medical conditions without being humiliated by an energy firm health inspection, he said.

The plans also fail to deal with the elephant in the room  the growing household energy debt mountain.

This was the Governments opportunity to take meaningful action and introduce targeted debt relief for those most in need.

It has failed to do so and seems to have given in to energy industry demands to let them go back to the bad old days of forcing prepayment meters on to customers in distress.

This is a step in the right direction  I welcome agreement from the sector to give redress to those wronged  an important step I've been requesting. Now @Ofgem and suppliers must put these words into action, so struggling families never again face such mistreatment.  Rt Hon Grant Shapps MP (@grantshapps) April 18, 2023

Energy Secretary Grant Shapps welcomed the announcement and called on Ofgem and suppliers to put these words into action, so struggling families never again face such mistreatment.

Shadow climate and net zero secretary Ed Miliband said: Todays action on prepayment meters is not good enough.

It is wrong that these rules still allow those with conditions like Alzheimers, the recently bereaved, those over 75, those with young children to be forced on to prepayment meters.

Meanwhile, Citizens Advice chief executive Dame Clare Moriarty said: Its now up to suppliers to follow the rules and for Ofgem to crack down quickly on any sign of bad practice.

The regulator must also act swiftly to make this voluntary code mandatory.

In February, an investigation by The Times revealed that vulnerable customers  including disabled and mentally ill people  were being forced by British Gas on to the pay-as-you-go meters or having their supply switched off.

Firms were then temporarily banned from installing prepayment energy meters under warrant.
More work should have gone into addressing the legacy of the Northern Ireland Troubles when the Good Friday Agreement was signed, former taoiseach Bertie Ahern has said.

Mr Ahern said the legacy issue was still outstanding 25 years on from the historic peace deal, with new generations seeking answers about victims of violence.

Mr Ahern was speaking, alongside Sir Tony Blair, to a group of school pupils in Belfast when he was asked was there anything he would have done differently around the Good Friday Agreement.

He said at the time talks chairman George Mitchell had set a deadline of Holy Thursday for a deal, which eventually ran into Good Friday.

He added: We had to rush a lot of things.

If you ask me today could I go back, I definitely would have worked harder on the chapter on legacy of the Troubles.

I have spent so much of my life since meeting families who have family members who have died or were injured.

Even recently I met two different groups, one in Belfast, one in Dublin, in the last few weeks.

The former taoiseach said it was very hard to talk to political parties in Northern Ireland about legacy at the time.

Sir Tony Blair and Bertie Ahern (Liam McBurney/PA0

I remember to the parties at one stage after the Good Friday Agreement saying to them I had met (FW) De Klerk and (Nelson) Mandela in Dublin and I asked them to tell me about the South Africa model.

I said to the political parties who were associated with paramilitaries how about doing something on peace and reconciliation.

I dont want to be funny about it but I was nearly in the room on my own after half an hour. There werent many takers around.

Maybe we should have done something, but to look back and say everybody was signed up for legacy issues in 1998 wouldnt be telling the truth.

New UK Government legislation to deal with the legacy of the Troubles proposes offering immunity for people accused of crimes during the Troubles as long as they co-operate with a new truth recovery body.

It would also stop future court processes or inquests.

However, victims groups, as well as the political parties in Northern Ireland and the Irish Government, have criticised the Bill.

Mr Ahern told the group of young people that Northern Ireland still has a problem dealing with families traumatised from incidents during the years of violence.

He said: I am watching it now going back into generations.

Now I am meeting delegations with young people who werent born in 1998, but wondering what happened to their grandfathers.

It is still an outstanding issue.
Planets in the habitable zones of stars that do not have a lot of metals in their atmosphere may be the best targets for the search for life, research suggests.

High levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation may cause damage to the DNA in life forms.

On Earth, oxygen in the atmosphere and the ozone protect the planet from harmful UV levels from the sun.

However, the amount of UV radiation emitted varies from star to star.

Low levels of UV radiation are known to lead to low planetary ozone levels, and therefore less UV protection.

Writing in Nature Communications, the researchers said: During the evolution of the universe, newly formed stars have progressively become more metal rich, exposing organisms to increasingly intense ultraviolet radiation.

Our findings imply that planets hosted by stars with low metallicity are the best targets to search for complex life on land.

However, the influence of stellar metallicity  the abundance of elements heavier than hydrogen and helium in a star  on UV protection and whether or not a planet is habitable is unclear.

Anna Shapiro, from the Max Planck Institute for Solar System Research in Germany, and colleagues modelled the atmospheres of hypothetical Earth-like planets hosted by stars with a range of metallicities.

They found that the planets around metal-poor stars would have more UV shielding, which may have implications for potential life.

While metal-rich stars emit substantially less UV radiation than metal-poor stars, the surfaces of their associated planets are exposed to more intense UV radiation.

According to the researchers, planets orbiting metal-rich stars are less suitable for life despite receiving relatively less UV radiation.
A new environmentally friendly poppy partly made from used coffee cups will be released for this years Remembrance Day.

The historic symbol will be plastic free and made of recyclable paper for the first time since it was introduced 102 years ago.

The redesign took three years to develop with the help of experts at University College London, the Royal British Legion said.

Around 50% of the material will come from discarded coffee cups, with the rest made of renewable fibres, the armed forces charity said.

The new poppy will be made from 50% recycled coffee cups (Royal British Legion/PA)

Alongside the pin-on version, adhesive poppies will also be sold.

Andy Taylor-Whyte, Poppy Appeal director at the Royal British Legion, described the new design as an enduring symbol of remembrance as well as being more planet-friendly.

Were so proud to unveil our plastic-free poppy, which is completely recyclable, and hope that this will encourage more people than ever to take part in this years Poppy Appeal and show support to our armed forces community, he said.

After years of work and collaboration with our partners designing a new poppy, creating new paper and machinery and road-testing it for durability and colour-fastness, we have been able to eliminate single-use plastic and create a poppy that is an enduring symbol of respect and remembrance as well as being more planet-friendly.

Wed like to encourage everyone to get a poppy this year when they become available.

The money raised will allow us to provide expert advice and guidance to support the armed forces community across a wide range of issues, including mobility, homelessness, life challenges such as family breakdowns, and mental health.

In a study of its production, scientists at UCL said the new poppy would reduce its carbon footprint significantly.

Professor Paola Lettieri, from the universitys Department of Chemical Engineering, said: By replacing the single-use plastic with a paper-based design, and increasing the amount of recycled paper used, we found that the new poppy design has a 40% smaller carbon footprint and a similar reduction in its overall impact on the environment.

The new poppy will be sold alongside remaining stocks of the current poppy from October 26 until Remembrance Sunday on November 12.
SNP treasure Colin Beattie has been arrested by police investigating the partys finances.

Mr Beattie, 71, is the second senior SNP figure to be taken into custody after Peter Murrell  the former chief executive and husband of Nicola Sturgeon.

Here is how the investigation has played out so far.

Douglas Chapman stepped down from his role as party treasurer (Chris McAndrew/UK Parliament/PA)

May 2021  MP quits party finance role

MP Douglas Chapman resigned from his role as the partys treasurer, saying he had not been given enough information to do his job.

Senior figures in the party, including Nicola Sturgeon, later disputed his assessment.

Joanna Cherry, a vocal internal critic of the partys leadership, also resigned from her role on the national executive committee (NEC).

July 2021  Police open investigation

Police Scotland confirmed they were investigating after seven complaints were made around donations to the SNP.

This followed allegations that 600,000 raised for campaigning towards Scottish independence was diverted elsewhere.

Earlier, the police force said they were assessing a fraud allegation relating to 600,000 of funds to determine if an investigation is required.

The party said that all sums raised for independence campaigning will be spent on independence campaigning.

Nicola Sturgeon disputed the claims around transparency (Russell Cheyne/PA)

August 2021  Party accounts acknowledge concern

As the partys annual accounts were published, treasurer Colin Beattie acknowledged there had been concern about transparency over independence-related appeals that had raised more than 600,000.

In a section of the accounts, Mr Beattie discussed money raised by the referendum-related appeals since 2017.

He said that 666,953 had been raised up to the end of 2021, with a total of 51,760 expenditure applied to this income.

The money was earmarked through internal processes, he said, though the accounts did not officially record a separate sum.

December 2022  Loan to SNP emerges

In December, it emerged that Mr Murrell had loaned the party 100,000 in June 2021.

The party said this was to help with a cash flow issue after the election that year.

Ms Sturgeon said: The resources that he lent the party were resources that belonged to him.

Nicola Sturgeon resigned last month (Jane Barlow/PA)

February 2023  Nicola Sturgeon resigns

Nicola Sturgeon stunned the political world by suddenly announcing her resignation on February 15.

She said this was not in relation to short-term pressures but because she knew in her head and heart that the time was right to go.

During her Bute House press conference, she was asked if she expected to be interviewed in relation to the investigation. She said she did not.

March 2023  Peter Murrell resigns

Amid the SNP leadership contest to replace Ms Sturgeon, Mr Murrell announced he was stepping down from the role he had held for more than 20 years.

It came during a row over the partys membership numbers, which had also led to media chief Murray Foote stepping down.

Membership numbers had dropped by about 30,000 in the last year, something the party had previously denied.

April 2023  Murrell arrested as police search premises



Mr Murrell was arrested on the morning of Wednesday April 5.

There was a large police presence around his home in Glasgow as well as the SNPs headquarters in Edinburgh.

He was released without charge, pending further investigation, the same day.

April 2023  Treasurer arrested

On April 18, party treasurer Colin Beattie was arrested and interviewed by police.

His role is to oversee the partys finances.
A new deal on sick pay is needed for workers, Priti Patel and Sir Robert Buckland have said, with the pair of former Cabinet ministers calling for an extension of statutory sick pay from day one of illness.

Statutory sick pay is currently 110 per week, but the two senior Conservatives  who both served under Boris Johnson  are calling for simple tweaks amid concerns that the Government is currently subsidising low sick pay.

In a joint article, the pair wrote: Our remarkable track record of getting people off benefits and back into work risks being held back by the challenge of ill health and the huge knock-on costs that come with it.

Simple tweaks to the system would ensure all workers get sick pay paid by their employer from day one if they are ill

The pair argue that the changes would offer a boost to the British economy.

Changes to sick pay could complement other measures already announced in Jeremy Hunts Back to Work budget and encourage this group to return to work and play their part in Britains economy, they said.

The latest official figures show that the number of people off work due to long-term sickness rose to another all-time high, at 2.5 million  up 3.7% quarter-on-quarter and 7.5% year-on-year and the highest since records began in 1993.

The call was welcomed by Amanda Walters, director of the Safe Sick Pay campaign.

Extending the UKs sick pay system to every worker, from day one of an illness, will benefit workers and the wider economy, she said.

Our sick pay system should be a world leader in supporting workers and businesses, but one in three workers cant pay the bills when they get sick. This is causing some people to leave the job market entirely, despite wanting to work.
A record number of people in Scotland are in work according to the latest figures released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

The quarterly data released on Tuesday showed there were 2.4 million workers on payrolls across Scotland  an increase of 50,000 from February 2020.

Scotlands unemployment rate fell by 0.1% between December 2022 and February 2023 to 3%  the lowest it has been since records began in 1992.

Rates of economic activity fell slightly to 75.7% of people aged 16-64, from 76.1% in the last quarter.

And the percentage of economically inactive people rose slightly from 21.6% between November 2022 and January 2023 to 22% between December 2022 and March 2023.

Scotland is also faring better with unemployment compared to the rest of the UK.

Compared with other UK countries, Scotlands employment rate was second highest behind England and the unemployment rate was the second lowest at 3%.

The UK average employment rate was 3.8%.

Neil Gray MSP has welcomed the latest employment figures (Fraser Bremner/Scottish Daily Mail)

Wellbeing Economy Secretary Neil Gray welcomed the figures.

He said: The record low unemployment rate for those aged 16 and over across Scotland and the relatively high employment rate for all 16 to 64-year-olds are welcome.

The unemployment rate for men aged 16 and over was also a record low in the series.

The Scottish Government is delivering on the national strategy for economic transformation to create a fairer, wealthier and greener country, while ensuring everyone can thrive in a diverse and inclusive workforce.

Our policies are supporting the creation of more high-quality jobs and we have increased the number of people earning at least the real, living wage.

The Scottish Government is committed to getting even more people into work, including: parents, disabled people and those with health and caring responsibilities, through employability and skills support, high-quality early learning and school age childcare provision, as well as improving access to flexible working.

However, certain industries still face recruitment challenges so we are continuing to call on UK ministers to establish a joint taskforce on labour market shortages.

An urgent rethink of UK Government immigration policy is needed to enable increased access to the international labour and skills that Scotland needs for our economy and communities to flourish.

With devolved powers on migration, Scotland could boost its workforce and tackle the recruitment challenges, many of which have been caused by the end of free movement and the hard Brexit imposed on Scotland by the UK Government.

Scottish Secretary Alister Jack said: It is welcome news that unemployment has fallen to a new record low and Scotlands labour market remains resilient in face of significant economic challenges.

The UK Government is working to stabilise our economy and last month the Chancellor set out a Budget which continues the cost-of-living support and will deliver sustainable, long-term growth, helping us halve inflation and reduce our national debt.

The UK Government also has an ambitious levelling up agenda in Scotland and is investing more than 2.2 billion to level up communities across the country including the City and Regional Growth Deals.
The SNP is facing a pretty critical moment with decisive action needed, or it will be in trouble, defeated leadership candidate Kate Forbes has said.

The former Holyrood finance secretary, who was defeated by Humza Yousaf in the race to succeed Nicola Sturgeon as SNP leader and Scottish First Minister, spoke out as police investigations into the partys finances continued.

Former chief executive Peter Murrell  who is married to Ms Sturgeon  has been arrested and questioned, before being later released without charge, with the couples home also being searched by officers.

On Tuesday Police Scotland also arrested SNP treasurer Colin Beattie, also the MSP for Midlothian North and Musselburgh, as part of Police Scotlands ongoing investigation into how more than 600,000 in donations to the party earmarked for an independence referendum had been used.

He was released without charge pending further investigation later on Tuesday.

Kate Forbes was narrowly defeated by Humza Yousaf in the contest to be SNP leader (Andrew Milligan/PA)

With the SNP also confirming it is currently without auditors after accountants Johnston Carmichael quit last year, with no replacement as yet being found, Ms Forbes said there were questions over integrity, trust, transparency.

The former finance secretary spoke to BBC Radio 4 in her first broadcast interview since losing the leadership election.

She told the Leading Scotland Where? programme, which airs on Wednesday evening, that right now, people are watching with astonishment, but they want to see leadership in dealing with it and resolving it.

Claims about the partys finances had been mind-blowing, she said.

Ms Forbes was clear: I think we need decisive and quick action or we will be in trouble.

Speaking about the partys situation, she added: I think right now, people are watching with astonishment, but they want to see leadership in dealing with it and resolving it.

She said that the SNP was trusted on various policy areas, adding: What the people of Scotland want is good education, a good functioning NHS, a growing, well performing economy.

These are the issues that matter. And if we can fix and sort the problems within our own party quickly and ensure we are delivering on those external issues, then I think we can continue to build on the trust and success.

The danger will be if there is an absence of decisive and quick action.

She continued: We are at a pretty critical moment and it will be the response and the reaction that determines how big a problem this is for the SNP.

Ms Forbes stated: Right now with questions over integrity, trust, transparency  I think voters are watching extremely carefully.

We perhaps have the next election in the early part of next year.

They will vote in that election on the basis of how we have sorted out our internal problems  even more than that, how we govern.

There is still time to sort it out. But, I said throughout the campaign, Im afraid Im going to say it now  continuity wont cut it.

Speaking about Ms Sturgeon and Mr Murrell, she said the couple were obviously a very good team in the sense of managing the SNP.

But she added: Theres no question that since then there have been lots of questions about transparency, the integrity of the systems and structures, and it doesnt matter how slick the optics are  you need good governance.

An SNP spokesman said: Under the fresh leadership of Humza Yousaf, the SNP has put in place the mechanisms to improve transparency and governance within the party.

Undoubtedly, the last week has been tough for party members but Humza Yousaf is working hard to maintain the strong trust Scottish voters have placed in the SNP at election after election in recent years.
SNP treasurer Colin Beattie has been arrested in connection with a police investigation into the partys finances.

Police Scotland said the 71-year-old has been taken into custody and is being questioned by detectives.

The arrest of Mr Beattie, who also serves as an MSP for Midlothian North and Musselburgh, is the second in relation to the investigation into how more than 600,000 in donations to the party earmarked for an independence referendum had been used.

A 71-year-old man has today, Tuesday, 18 April 2023, been arrested as a suspect in connection with the ongoing investigation into the funding and finances of the Scottish National Party. https://t.co/crTiTkBNTH pic.twitter.com/Pm3vwsQhqm  Police Scotland (@PoliceScotland) April 18, 2023

Police said the 71-year-old was arrested in connection with the ongoing investigation into the funding and finances of the Scottish National Party.

The force said a report will be submitted to the Crown Office.

Earlier this month, former party chief executive Peter Murrell was arrested and questioned for more than 11 hours before being released without charge pending further investigation.

Mr Murrell is the husband of former first minister Nicola Sturgeon.

A spokesperson for the SNP said: We have no comment on a live police investigation.

Mr Beattie was the SNPs national treasurer between 2004 and 2020, losing the position to MP Douglas Chapman.

However, Mr Chapman quit the post in 2021, claiming he was not being given the required information to carry out the job.

The Constituency Office of Colin Beattie MSP in Dalkeith (Jane Barlow/PA)

Mr Beattie reclaimed the post soon after, and reportedly told the partys ruling body on Saturday the SNP would struggle to balance the books, reports that have since been disputed by senior figures including former Westminster leader Ian Blackford.

There was no sign of police activity outside Mr Beatties address in Dalkeith, Midlothian, on Tuesday morning, or outside his constituency office in the town.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said the SNP is in a real mess.

During a visit to York University, he was asked about the arrest of Mr Beattie.

Sir Keir told broadcasters: The SNP developments are deeply concerning.

Obviously there is a criminal investigation going on, so there is only so much I can say.

But after 16 years in power, it has descended to this  a real mess  and those being let down are Scottish voters, who are entitled to better than this.

Meanwhile, Scottish Conservative chairman Craig Hoy MSP called for Mr Beattie, Mr Murrell and Ms Sturgeon to be suspended from the SNP.

He said: This extremely serious matter is escalating by the day and everyone in the SNP has a duty to be as transparent as possible about what they knew and when.

Scottish Labour deputy leader Jackie Baillie said: This is yet another deeply concerning development and the Police Scotland investigation must be allowed to proceed without interference.
President Yoon Suk Yeol speaks during a Cabinet meeting at the presidential office, Tuesday. Joint press corps



840-member special investigation team to serve as control tower



By Jun Ji-hye



President Yoon Suk Yeol vowed, Tuesday, to mobilize all possible resources to root out crimes related to narcotics, responding to heightened concerns following the distribution of methamphetamine-laced drinks to high school students in Seoul and allegations of habitual drug use by A-list actor Yoo Ah-in.



Yoon said drug addiction is a disease and a crime that blights drug users, their families and society, noting that what he found to be "most shocking" was the widespread distribution of drugs to teenagers.



"The government will join all forces to win the war on drugs," Yoon said during a Cabinet meeting at the presidential office.



The remarks came as drug-related crimes have become a major concern in the country.



According to official data, 5,809 people were caught between November of 2022 and February of this year for narcotics-related crimes, up 24 percent from a year earlier. The amount of drugs seized by law enforcement officials surged 55 percent from a year earlier to 306.8 kilograms.



In particular, the distribution of methamphetamine-laced drinks to high school students in Seoul showed just how vulnerable teenagers are to illegal drugs.



According to the police investigating the case that occurred on April 3, a crime ring allegedly blackmailed the parents of students who inadvertently consumed the drinks, demanding money to prevent their children from being reported to police for abusing drugs.





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SNP treasurer Colin Beattie has been released without charge after he became the second figure in the party to be arrested amid a police investigation into its finances.

The 71-year-old was questioned by detectives on Tuesday and Police Scotland said that evening that he had since been released without charge pending further investigation.

The arrest of Mr Beattie, the MSP for Midlothian North and Musselburgh, comes less than two weeks after former first minister Nicola Sturgeons husband was arrested as part of the same investigation.

Peter Murrell, the former SNP chief executive, was questioned by officers on Wednesday April 5 as officers searched the home the couple share. He was later released without charge, pending further inquiries.

Update on investigation into Scottish National Party funding and finances. More: https://t.co/pzmNkCnLuN pic.twitter.com/CS32fxt7aU  Police Scotland (@PoliceScotland) April 18, 2023

Police Scotland have been looking into how more than 600,000 in donations to the party earmarked for an independence referendum had been used, but First Minister Humza Yousaf said on Tuesday that he would not be speaking to Ms Sturgeon about the investigation.

Mr Yousaf told journalists at Holyrood: I havent spoken to Nicola in the last couple of weeks, but I will get to speak to Nicola, I am certain I will.

But one thing Nicola and I will not be talking about is the police investigation. That would be wholly inappropriate.

First Minister Humza Yousaf speaks to the media after delivering a statement on Our Priorities for Scotland, in the main chamber of the Scottish Parliament (Jane Barlow/PA)

Scottish Tory deputy leader Meghan Gallacher, however, said Mr Yousaf should tackle this scandal head on and prove he is his own man by suspending both the former first minister and her husband.

Speaking in Holyrood, Ms Gallacher said: The SNP is in total meltdown.

Its former chief executive and now its current treasurer have been arrested amid a police investigation into the partys finances.

And leaked footage has shown Nicola Sturgeon trying to shut down scrutiny.

Her comments came after Scottish Conservative chairman Craig Hoy called for Mr Beattie, Mr Murrell and Ms Sturgeon to be suspended from the SNP.

Mr Hoy said: This extremely serious matter is escalating by the day and everyone in the SNP has a duty to be as transparent as possible about what they knew and when.

But Mr Yousaf said it was a really important point of natural law that people are presumed innocent until guilty.

He said he would consider the situation if charges are brought by police, saying if that was the case we may well have to take that course of action.

The First Minister stated: Of course if they are guilty I would take the appropriate action, whether that is suspension or going further than that.

But it is really important due process takes place.

Earlier on Tuesday, Police Scotland confirmed Mr Beattie had been arrested in connection with the ongoing investigation into the funding and finances of the Scottish National Party.

A report will be submitted to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, the force added.

An SNP spokesperson said: We have no comment on a live police investigation.

Mr Beattie was the SNPs national treasurer between 2004 and 2020, losing the position to MP Douglas Chapman.

However, Mr Chapman quit the post in 2021, claiming he was not being given the required information to carry out the job.

Mr Beattie reclaimed the post soon afterwards, and reportedly told the partys ruling body on Saturday the SNP would struggle to balance the books  reports that have since been disputed by senior figures including former Westminster leader Ian Blackford.

There was no sign of police activity outside Mr Beatties address in Dalkeith, Midlothian, on Tuesday morning, or outside his constituency office in the town.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said the SNP is in a real mess.

During a visit to York University, he was asked about the arrest of Mr Beattie.

Sir Keir told broadcasters: The SNP developments are deeply concerning.

Obviously there is a criminal investigation going on, so there is only so much I can say.

But after 16 years in power, it has descended to this  a real mess  and those being let down are Scottish voters, who are entitled to better than this.

Meanwhile, Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar said the news of the arrest meant the SNP was no longer a functioning government.

This is an SNP mired in scandal, mired in division, talking to themselves about themselves, and the crisis that now engulfs the SNP is not just an indication of how they govern their party, but also how they govern our country.
A Labour government would bring back Tony Blair-style NHS targets to cut waiting times for patients, Sir Keir Starmer has said, as he accused the Tories of presiding over a broken system.

The opposition leader used interviews with two national newspapers to set out his vision for reform and rebuilding healthcare, with an approach similar to that of New Labour.

He told the Telegraph that successive Conservative governments had overseen a cycle of decline that poses an existential threat to the health service.

In the i, Sir Keir indicated he would follow a target-driven system like the model pursued by former prime minister Sir Tony Blair.

The last Labour government did obviously put targets around it so there is a model there that we know can work, he said.

They drove the waiting lists down dramatically over two or three years. It will fall to us to do the same thing.

Speaking to the Telegraph, he revealed Labour would back single-sex hospital wards and accused Prime Minister Rishi Sunak of sitting on his hands over a long-running pay dispute as further health strikes loom.

For me, patient security, safety and peace of mind comes first. Thats why we support single-sex wards, he said.

I think the NHS is broken, he added.

If they carry on like this, it cant survive  the biggest risk to the NHS is another Tory government.

Sir Keir Starmer with shadow health secretary Wes Streeting (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

It comes as the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) plans to stage the most extreme strikes in its history, which would see staff walk out with no derogations.

Mr Sunak admitted on Monday that meeting his promise to cut NHS waiting times will be more challenging as a result of further industrial action.

The Prime Minister made the pledge as one of his five priorities at the start of the year, but the latest figures showed a record 7.22 million people were waiting to start routine hospital treatment at the end of February.

The RCN is set to return to the picket line after rejecting a pay offer while the British Medical Associations junior doctors also remain locked in a row with the Government over wages.

Mr Sunak claimed he was still hopeful that waiting lists could be driven down but described the unions ballot result as disappointing.

The Government has been contacted for comment.
Rishi Sunak has not done anything sinister surrounding his financial interests as he is investigated over a possible failure to make a declaration to MPs, a minister has said.

The Prime Minister is facing an inquiry by Parliaments standards watchdog amid claims he did not declare his wifes shares in a childcare agency that benefited from the Budget.

Downing Street insists Mr Sunak transparently declared the shares Akshata Murty holds in Koru Kids as a ministerial interest rather than to the Commons.

But Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards Daniel Greenberg has opened an investigation under rules demanding MPs are open and frank with their interests.

Mr Sunak did not detail the shares when being questioned by MPs on the Liaison Committee about why one of his policies favoured private childcare firms.

Home Office minister Chris Philp defended Mr Sunak on Tuesday, insisting no-one really doubts Rishis integrity and ethics.

He has declared his wifes interests in his ministerial declaration. He did draw attention to that to the committee when he gave evidence and he also wrote to them subsequently as well, he told GB News.

He will work with the standards commissioner to clear up any questions that are outstanding.

But I dont think theres anything sinister here, he has made his declaration.

The list of ministerial interests has not been updated for nearly a year and Downing Street has declined to set out when Mr Sunak made the declaration.

Rishi Sunak with his wife Akshata Murty, who holds shares in childcare agency Koru Kids (Ben Stansall/PA)

During the select committee hearing, Labour MP Catherine McKinnell questioned why childminders will get twice the incentive for joining the profession if they sign up with private agencies.

Asked if he had any interests to declare, Mr Sunak responded: No, all my disclosures are declared in the normal way.

He went on to write to the committee to say he would like to clarify for the parliamentary record that this interest has rightly been declared to the Cabinet Office.

He said the new list of ministerial interests, which has not been updated for nearly a year, will be published shortly.

Deputy Labour leader Angela Rayner said delay has left a transparency black hole which is enabling the Prime Minister and those he has appointed to dodge proper scrutiny of their affairs.
Tributes have been paid to a renowned climber from Northern Ireland who died on a Nepalese mountain range.

Noel Hanna, 56, died on Monday while returning from Annapurnas 8,091-metre summit, Thaneswar Guragai of Kathmandu-based Seven Summit Treks said.

The cause of death was not immediately known.

His body was carried down the mountain and taken to the Nepalese capital Kathmandu, Mr Guragai said.

Mr Hannas friend and fellow mountaineer Pat Falvy told RTE that details were scant, but it is believed that he died at base camp after returning from the mountains summit.

I got a text in from my people in Kathmandu which said that Noel had passed away, he said.

Mr Hanna was an experienced climber, having reached the summit of Mount Everest 10 times and was the first person from the island of Ireland to successfully climb and descend from K2, the worlds second highest mountain.

He lived in Dromore in Co Down with his wife Lynne, who is also an experienced climber, and the two had scaled Everest together in 2016.

Mourne Mountain Adventures said it was very saddened to hear of the death of Mr Hanna and sent its condolences to his family and his wife.

There is some peace in that he spent his last moments doing what he loved best, such a great man and one of Northern Irelands finest mountaineers, it said.

DUP MLA for Antrim Paul Frew said on Twitter: So sorry to hear of the death of Noel Hanna from Northern Ireland who had just become the 1st Irish climber to summit Annapurna.

Noel was an absolute legend climbing K2, Manaslu, and Everest 10 times! My thoughts & prayers are with his family at this sad time.
Police chiefs have urged the public to remain vigilant against terrorism and other crime as thousands of visitors prepare to descend on Liverpool for the Eurovision Song Contest.

The city won the right to host the global music event ahead of a number of other UK cities, in place of Ukraine, the previous years winners, who cannot hold the event due to the Russian invasion.

Thousands of people are expected to attend the contest, and related events being held, in the nine days running up to the final at the Liverpool M&S Bank Arena on the waterfront on Saturday May 13.

Chief Superintendent Jonathan Davies of Merseyside Police, overseeing the Eurovision policing operation, said: Hosting the Eurovision Song Contest on behalf of Ukraine is an amazing opportunity not only for the city of Liverpool but for Merseyside as a whole.

The BBC would like to invite #Eurovision fans to send in questions for this years artists   These questions (and the acts answers) will appear in VT films during the live shows and should be universal for multiple artists. The more offbeat and unusual the better. (1/2) pic.twitter.com/2gVx8XXDGA  Eurovision Song Contest (@Eurovision) April 18, 2023

Whether you are a fan of Eurovision or not, there is no escaping the fact that we will see a huge influx of people in Liverpool during the coming weeks.

Merseyside Police is well-practised at planning for large events such as the Giants, the Labour Party Conference and numerous city-wide parades. We know that when the public act as our extra eyes and ears, it helps us keep the crowds drawn by these events safe.

We are asking you all to look out for each other  if you see something that doesnt feel right, tell staff or the police.

The campaign has been designed in collaboration with Counter Terrorism Policing, who run similar campaigns at music festivals and venues, working with the music industry to encourage music lovers to Be Safe Be Sound.

I can reassure the public that there is no specific threat relating to the Eurovision Song Contest, but we always prepare for any eventuality.

Encouraging the public to stay alert and report anything that doesnt feel right is a vital part of keeping people safe at any large event.

Public messaging urging vigilance will be increased in and around the city and on social media in the run-up to the event along with an increased police and security presence.

Some of these police patrols are Project Servator deployments, developed by the National Protective Security Authority (NPSA), formerly the Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure (CPNI), and the City of London Police, which began using the style of police deployments in February 2014 to reinforce the existing ring of steel around the City of London.

Chief Inspector Iain Wyke of Protective Security Operations at Merseyside Police said: These highly visible Project Servator deployments use specially-trained uniform and plainclothes officers to spot the tell-tale signs that someone may have criminal intent, such as gathering information that may help them plan or prepare to commit a crime.

The deployments are deliberately unpredictable, and officers can turn up anywhere at any time. They are supported by colleagues in other specialist roles including the Dog Section, Mounted Section, Armed Policing, and City Watch for round-the-clock monitoring of the CCTV network used across the force area.

Officers will encourage the public, including people working in local businesses, to be extra eyes and ears, and report anything that doesnt feel right. We also ensure event security staff receive training in how to spot suspicious activity and what to do. The aim is to build a network of vigilance made up of business and community partners and the general public.

If you do see a Project Servator deployment, theres nothing to worry about. Feel free to talk to officers, they will be happy to explain what they are doing and how you can help keep people safe.

To report suspicious activity, call the police on 101 or in an emergency 999. Suspicious activity is anything that seems out of place, unusual or does not seem to fit in with day-to-day life.

Guidance on how to help, including what suspicious activity to look out for, and confidential reporting is available at www.gov.uk/act.
FILE - This aerial photo shows the movie set of "Rust" at Bonanza Creek Ranch in Santa Fe, N.M., on Saturday, Oct. 23, 2021. A judge is scheduled to resolve a weapons-related charge against a codefendant in the case against Alec Baldwin in the fatal shooting of a cinematographer during a 2021 movie rehearsal. Prosecutors have proposed plea agreement with safety coordinator and assistant director David Halls regarding his involvement in the western movie "Rust" and the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP)  The judge hearing the wrongful death lawsuit against actor Alec Baldwin and an array of producers and crew linked to a fatal film set shooting agreed Monday to seal from public view the terms of a proposed settlement agreement in the case that benefits the son of slain cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.

The New Mexico judge said the right to privacy for Hutchins' 10-year-old son overrides obligations for public disclosure and ordered that settlement documents and approval hearings be sealed in the civil lawsuit that argues that Baldwin and other film crewmembers ignored industry gun safety standards on the set of the Western film Rust" ahead of the 2021 shooting.

What is driving my decision is really the interests of the minor child. And that is one of the very most powerful reasons to seal a matter, District Court Judge Bryan Biedscheid said in a videoconference hearing of the Santa Fe-based court.

Baldwin, an actor and coproducer of the film, was pointing a pistol at Hutchins during a rehearsal on the film's set outside Santa Fe when the gun went off, killing her and wounding director Joel Souza. He and other defendants have disputed the accusations that they were lax with safety standards.

Widower Matthew Hutchins filed the wrongful death suit last year against Rust producers, including Baldwin, as well as members of the film crew with safety responsibilities and an ammunition supplier. Son Andros Hutchins, who was 9 at the time of the shooting, is also named as a plaintiff.

Attorneys for they boy said Monday that secrecy provisions are paramount to protect his privacy and finalize a settlement with Rust producers.

Knowledge of the settlement terms also will be off limits to people beyond Rust producers who were named as defendants in the lawsuit, including weapons supervisor Hannah Gutierrez-Reed. Several of those defendants objected to being left in the dark on details of the settlement, though approval of the agreement should end their involvement in the wrongful death suit.

Gutierrez-Reed and Baldwin are also confronting criminal charges of involuntary manslaughter in separate court proceedings and have pleaded not guilty, with two weeks of evidentiary hearings scheduled in May.

Matthew Hutchins outlined a proposed settlement agreement in October that opened the way for filming of Rust to resume in Montana. He'll serve as a producer.
FILE PHOTO: Used boxes of Mifepristone pills, the first drug used in a medical abortion, fill a trash can at Alamo Women's Clinic in New Mexico

By Andrew Chung

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The U.S. Supreme Court should restrict the availability of the abortion pill mifepristone, anti-abortion groups challenging the medication's federal regulatory approval told the justices in a filing on Tuesday, urging them to implement curbs ordered by a conservative federal judge in Texas.

The challengers urged the Supreme Court to reject emergency requests by Democratic President Joe Biden's administration and the pill's manufacturer to halt the April 7 preliminary injunction issued by U.S. District Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk in Amarillo that would greatly limit mifepristone's distribution, while litigation proceeds.

The New Orleans-based 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals on April 12 declined to block the restrictions but halted a part of Kacsmaryk's order that would have suspended the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of the drug that was given in 2000, effectively pulling it off the market. The FDA is the U.S. agency that signs off on the safety of food products, drugs and medical devices.

"The only effect of the lower court's order is to restore a modicum of safety for the women and girls who use the drug, including supervision and oversight by a physician," attorneys at the Alliance Defending Freedom, a conservative religious rights group representing the pill's challengers, wrote in the filing.

The FDA and Danco Laboratories have for years disregarded "holes and red flags" in their safety data, "demonstrating callous disregard for women's well-being, unborn life, and statutory limits," they added.

The FDA asserts that mifepristone is safe and effective, a record that it has said is conclusively demonstrated over decades of use by millions of Americans and that adverse effects of mifepristone are exceedingly rare.

The case poses another major threat to abortion rights in the United States in the aftermath of the Supreme Court's decision last June to overturn the landmark 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling that had legalized the procedure nationwide. Mounting abortion bans and restrictions have been enacted by Republican-led states since then.

Mifepristone is taken with another drug called misoprostol to perform medication abortion, which now accounts for more than half of all U.S. abortions.

Conservative Justice Samuel Alito, who authored the June ruling, last Friday temporarily blocked the restrictions on mifepristone in order to give the Supreme Court time to weigh the requests by the administration and Danco, along with the challengers' arguments. The Supreme Court has a 6-3 conservative majority.

Alito, who handles emergency matters arising in a group of states including Texas, delayed the restrictions from taking effect until 11:59 p.m. EDT (0359 GMT) on Wednesday. The court would be expected to issue another order on the issue by that time.

In a case that could undercut federal regulatory authority over drug safety, the administration and Danco on Friday said that mifepristone might not be available for months if the restrictions are allowed to take effect.

Kacsmaryk's decision conflicted with an order also issued April 7 in a separate case from Washington state directing the FDA to keep mifepristone available in 17 states and the District of Columbia, raising questions over how the FDA would manage contradictory commands from the judiciary if the Supreme Court denies the administration's bid for relief.

Anti-abortion groups led by the recently formed Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine and four anti-abortion doctors sued the FDA in November seeking to reverse approval of mifepristone.

The restrictions set by the lower courts would restore curbs on mifepristone that had been lifted since 2016 as the FDA steadily expanded access. These restrictions would include a requirement for three in-person doctor visits to obtain mifepristone and would limit its use to the first seven weeks of pregnancy, down from the current 10.

Since last year's Supreme Court decision, 12 U.S. states have put in place outright bans while many others prohibit abortion after a certain length of pregnancy. The latest Republican-led move came in Florida, where Governor Ron DeSantis on April 13 signed a new law that bans most abortions after six weeks of pregnancy.

(Reporting by Andrew Chung; Editing by Will Dunham)
The owner of a home where a Black teenager was shot and wounded last week in Kansas Citys Northland is a white man in his 80s, according to property records and an attorney for the teens family.

Clay County Prosecutor Zachary Thompson identified the alleged shooter as Andrew D. Lester in a press conference late Monday afternoon in announcing charges against him. A warrant was issued for his arrest.

At a news conference Sunday, Police Chief Stacey Graves said the homeowner allegedly shot Ralph Yarl, 16, after the teen arrived at the wrong house to pick up his brothers in the 1100 block of 115th Street.

Graves said Lester had been initially taken into custody Thursday, placed on a 24-hour hold and released pending further investigation.

Property records reviewed by The Star show Lester, 84, owns the home where Ralph was shot. A database on custody status also showed he was booked last week by KCPD on charges relating to an assault.

Civil rights attorney Ben Crump, who is among the attorneys representing Ralphs family, said based on what Ralphs relatives told him, the shooter is white.

Ralph Yarl

Ralph rang the doorbell at the wrong address before the shooting  at a home on 115th Street instead of 115th Terrace, according to police. The man who opened the door shot Ralph in the head and shot Ralph again when he was on the ground, Ralphs family said. Ralph was able to get up and seek help from neighbors, but had to go to three homes before getting help.

Lawyers hired by Ralphs family criticized law enforcements decision to release Lester last week.

There can be no excuse for the release of this armed and dangerous suspect after admitting to shooting an unarmed, non-threatening and defenseless teenager that rang his doorbell, said Lee Merritt, a Texas-based civil rights attorney.

Graves on Sunday said detectives needed a statement from the victim to seek charges against the shooter. She also said investigators would consider whether the shooter was protected by Missouris so-called Stand Your Ground law.

The Stars Glenn E. Rice and Anna Spoerre contributed to this report.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu finds himself today in a similar situation to President Richard Nixon in the final phase of his presidency: facing criminal charges, leaving a nation bitterly divided and worrying about his legacy.

When examining Nixons legacy, some historians focus on his international accomplishments  the opening to China and the nuclear arms control agreements, which eventually led to the end of the Cold War. Others highlight his domestic achievements, like the desegregation of schools, environmental policies and more. Observers agree, though, that whatever legacy Nixon has left behind, it was marred with Watergate.

It is too early to speak about Netanyahus legacy, but it seems that it will be as complex as that of his American counterpart. In the international arena, Netanyahu succeeded with the Abraham Accords, which added more Arab countries to the peace cycle with Israel. However, he failed precisely where he had hoped to position himself: Israels savior from Irans nuclear threat. In addition, he will probably be remembered as the prime minister who has ruled us for too long and who has excelled in pitting one Israeli against the other.

Yet, on one issue the two leaders seem to have been on the same page: their aversion to the free press. Nixon remained bitter about the press long after his loss in the 1962 California gubernatorial election, which prompted him to famously tell reporters that, You dont have Nixon to kick around anymore, because, gentlemen, this is my last press conference.

As Jon Marshall wrote in The Atlantic in 2014, Nixon was the first president who began labeling the press as the Media, aiming at belittling and discrediting it. In late 1972, he already used much harsher language, when he told Henry Kissinger and Alexander Haig: Never forget, the press is the enemy, the press is the enemyWrite that on a blackboard 100 times.

Netanyahu has never been the darling of the Israeli press. This stemmed in part from his vitriolic incitement against Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin in the fatal summer of 1995, his hedonistic lifestyle at the expense of the public and the fact that journalists discovered quite early the gap between his rhetoric and his accomplishments.

Here was a man, for example, who made a name by teaching the world how to fight terrorism and, upon becoming prime minister, made a turnabout and freed 1,000 Palestinian terrorists for one Israeli POW, Gilad Shalit.

If Nixon mainly ranted against the press in the Oval Office, banned some correspondents from White House press conferences (something Donald Trump would echo some 40 years later), sent the IRS to investigate tax returns filed by journalists whom the White House disliked and threatened to enact harsh libel laws against them, Netanyahu took a much more practical approach: If you cant beat them, he reasoned, own them.

In 2007, after losing the election to Ehud Olmert, he persuaded right-wing casino mogul Sheldon Edelson to publish for him a free, mass-distribution daily, Yisrael HaYom (Israel Today), that would be open about its support for Netanyahu and would offset Israels most popular daily, Yedioth Aharonot, whose publisher, Arnon Mozes, was perceived as an opponent of Netanyahu.

Yisrael HaYom did help Netanyahu regain his political power, but at the same time implicated him in criminal activity: He was secretly recorded scheming with the same Arnon Mozes to change the tone of Yedioth Aharonot in his favor. In return, he promised to cut the circulation of Mozes competitor, Yisrael Hayom. Through Bibis tapes, Israelis  like Americans during Watergate  realized that their leader, allegedly, was a crook.

If this was not enough, Netanyahu, acting as communications minister, secretly offered the owner of Walla!, a popular news website, huge benefits in his bid for Bezeq, the Israeli state-owned communications company, in return for flattering coverage for Netanyahu and his wife, Sarah. This earned him another criminal charge. And finally, he endorsed Channel 14, the Israeli version of Fox News, where he doesnt have to face truth seeking journalists but can propagandize freely.

In the final analysis, it seems that Netanyahus legacy will probably resemble that of Nixon: It wont highlight political and international achievements only, but the fact that they have eroded the public trust in government in general, and in the media  the watchdog of democracy  in particular.

Nixon, at least, offered some apology. In his famed 1977 interviews with British journalist David Frost, he confessed, I let down my friends. I let down my country. I let down our system of government.

Only time will tell whether Netanyahu, when he finally leaves us alone, will do the same.

Uri Dromi was the spokesman of the Rabin and Peres governments, from 1992-1996.
HEBRON, N.Y. (AP)  A woman looking for a friend's house in upstate New York was shot to death after the car she was riding in mistakenly went to the wrong address and was met with gunfire in the driveway, authorities said Monday.

Kaylin Gillis, 20, was traveling through the rural town of Hebron with three other people Saturday night when the group made a wrong turn onto the property.

They were trying to turn the car around when the homeowner, Kevin Monahan, 65, came out onto his porch and fired two shots, according to Washington County Sheriff Jeffrey Murphy.

One round hit Gillis.

The group drove to the neighboring town of Salem, northeast of Albany near the Vermont state line, and called 911, said Murphy, who noted the shooting took place in an area with limited cell phone service. Emergency crews arrived and performed CPR on Gillis but couldn't save her.

When officers arrived at Monahan's house to investigate the shooting, he refused to come out, Murphy said. Authorities spoke with him through a 911 dispatcher and in person for about an hour before he was taken into custody, according to the sheriff.

Monahan was booked into the Warren County jail on a charge of second-degree murder. It wasn't clear whether he had an attorney who could speak on his behalf.

Murphy said at a news conference Monday that Gillis, who lived in Schuylerville, was an innocent young girl who was out with friends looking for another friends house, according to the Times Union of Albany. He said there was no reason for Mr. Monahan to feel threatened.

The shooting happened days after 16-year-old Ralph Yarl was shot and wounded in Kansas City, Missouri, after going to the wrong house to pick up his younger brothers.
Gwangchigi Beach in Seogwipo, Jeju Island, is littered with trash in this August 2022 photo. Newsis



By Ko Dong-hwan



Jeju Island is considering legislation that would require visitors to pay tourism fees to support environmental sustainability.



The fees will include 1,500 won ($1) per night for tourists, 5,000 won per day for those renting a car  10,000 won for a minivan  and five percent of the fee for renting a bus, according to the Jeju Special Self-Governing Province. It said each visitor will be charged an average of 8,170 won per day.



The authority said Sunday that the measure now under consideration, if submitted and passed at the National Assembly, will bring about 141 billion won to the government coffer after the first year. The figure will increase to 154 billion won by the second year and 167 billion won the next year, the authority forecasted.



The country's popular tourism destination has long been considering these measures since locals raised concerns about the side effects of booming tourism, including garbage and sewage increasing beyond the island's management capacity. The island government tried to introduce the entry fee in 2012 but was thwarted by objectors.



The government last August requested the Korea Environment Institute, a state-run research company, to study the feasibility of the entry fee for the island. With the research to be completed by August, the government plans to propose the bill to the National Assembly within this year.



Rep. Wi Seong-gon of the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea who represents Jeju Island's Seogwipo City, submitted revisions last December to the Special Act on the Establishment of Jeju Special Self-Governing Province and the Framework Act on the Management of Charges to introduce the entry fee. The proposal has been pending since.



Jeju Governor Oh Young-hun said at the provincial council on Thursday that the introduction of the measure is "being very carefully planned" so that it can draw citizen support from across the country.



He said the process is "not going to be entirely a pretty picture" and "by no means easy." He added he is keenly monitoring reactions from the central government, the National Assembly, private businesses and news outlets as to the measure.



The provincial council has been discussing ways to preserve the island's ecological diversity and manage the increase in waste, both resulting from increasing visits by tourists from around the world all year round. The council is working on revising three relevant laws to equip the island with a larger budget and stronger laws against the growing responsibility to cater to visitors.



Jeju's move comes as Hawaii lawmakers are mulling charging tourists a "visitor impact fee" to alleviate the effects of overcrowding and to help restore the environment.


FILE - This is a poster on the stage during a news conference following the funeral service for Jayland Walker at the Akron Civic Center in Akron, Ohio, July 13, 2022. A grand jury in Ohio will hear evidence this week to decide whether police officers should face criminal charges in the shooting of Jayland Walker, a 25-year-old Black man whose death sparked protests in Akron last summer. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

AKRON, Ohio (AP)  An Ohio grand jury declined to indict eight police officers who fired 94 shots in the death last year of Jayland Walker, a 25-year-old Black man who fired at least one round at officers during a car and foot chase, the state's attorney general announced Monday.

Walker was shot 46 times in a hail of gunfire that lasted just under seven seconds after he jumped out of his still-moving car and ran from police, said Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost.

He had ignored commands to stop and show his hands and then reached toward his waistband and raised his hand as officers were chasing, Yost said. Some of the officers first used Tasers before firing their guns, he said.

But the officers, not knowing Walker left his gun in the car, believed he was going to fire again at them, Yost said. He said it is critical to remember that Walker had fired at police, and that he shot first.

The shooting last June that Walker's family said was brutal and senseless sparked protests in Akron. On Monday, the city's mayor and police chief urged residents to react peacefully, acknowledging that tensions are high.

Turn toward one other and not on each other, said Mayor Daniel Horrigan.

During a tear- and frustration-filled response press conference, the Walker family and their allies mourned the grand jurys inaction and called on Akron residents to protest loudly for justice and change. Democratic U.S. Rep. Emilia Sykes, of Akron, said she will ask the department to investigate the patterns and practices of the Akron Police Department.

I still cant comprehend how a young man has 46 bullet holes from officers and that is justified, Sykes said, while also urging people to honor Walkers memory by protesting peacefully. I ask you to remember the words of Jaylands family by speaking up. But do so without violence.

The family and the NAACP previously have called on the Justice Department to open a federal civil rights investigation.

Bobby DiCello, an attorney for Walker's family, criticized the state's investigation, saying police gunned down Walker execution-style. Paige White, another attorney for the family, said the investigation was skewed in favor of the police and that Jayland didnt have a chance.

Akron Police Department, when you call for peace, when you call for no destruction, when you call for respect  where was your respect for Jayland? White said.

The state investigation found that police first saw Walker driving with a broken taillight and a broken light on his rear license plate, but they decided not to follow him. They saw him 10 minutes later at the same intersection and decided to pursue him for the equipment violation, Yost said.

Police said Walker refused to stop and then fired a shot from his car 40 seconds into the pursuit.

Officers chased the car on a freeway and city streets until Walker bailed from the still-moving vehicle and ran into a parking lot where he was killed while wearing a ski mask, body cam video showed. Authorities said he represented a deadly threat. A handgun, a loaded magazine and a wedding ring were found on the drivers seat of his car.

Police union officials said the officers thought there was an immediate threat of serious harm and that their actions were in line with their training and protocols.

Dash-cam video from a police cruiser captured images of Walker firing the gun from his car, said Anthony Pierson, an assistant state attorney general. Walker had no criminal history and had never fired a gun until he went to a shooting range with a friend in early June, Pierson said.

Walker had been grieving his fiancees recent death but his family had no indication of concern beyond that, a family representative previously said.

Pierson wouldnt speculate about Walkers state of mind that night and said there was no direct evidence that he was suicidal.

That night he encountered the police he wasnt acting himself, Pierson said. By all accounts he was a good person, a good man.

Blurry body camera footage released last summer did not clearly show what authorities say was a threatening gesture Walker made before he was shot.

Akron Police Chief Steve Mylett said Monday that the city will begin an internal investigation into the shooting, but he would not release the names of the eight officers because of ongoing threats against them.

The officers, who initially were placed on leave, will remain on administrative duties. None of the eight officers appear to have been disciplined for any previous use of force incidences, according to investigation records released by the state

While the grand jurys decision shows no crime was committed by the officers, "in no way does that take away from the tragedy of June 27, Mylett said.

Attorneys for the eight officers released a statement calling the incident a tragedy for the entire community, including Walker's family and all of the officers who were involved. A split-second decision to use lethal force is one that every police officer hopes he or she will never be forced to make, the statement said.

A county medical officer said t he autopsy found no illegal drugs or alcohol were detected in Walker's body.

After taking over the investigation last summer at the request of Akron police, prosecutors with the Ohio attorney generals office presented the case to the grand jury.

City leaders have been preparing for potential demonstrations and set up a designated protest zone downtown outside the city hall building, where plywood covered the first-floor windows. Theres also temporary fencing around the county courthouse and many businesses boarded up their windows.

The city's school district canceled classes on Tuesday in the wake of the grand jury announcement.

Less than 24 hours before the chase, police in neighboring New Franklin Township had tried to stop a car matching Walkers, also for unspecified minor equipment violations. A supervisor there called off the pursuit when the car crossed the townships border with Akron.

___

Seewer reported from Toledo. Associated Press writers Julie Carr Smyth and Samantha Hendrickson in Columbus, Ohio and Michael Rubinkam in Allentown, Pennsylvania, contributed.
Senate Republicans laid into Department of Homeland Security secretary Alejandro Mayorkas during a Tuesday hearing, demanding that he resign or be impeached over his failure to stem record levels of illegal immigration and resulting increases in migrant child labor.

Mayorkas was in agreement that both the asylum and immigration systems are broken, but sparred with several senators on the Homeland Security Committee who sought to put the blame for the deteriorating situation on him.

You ought to resign, explained Senator Ron Johnson (R., Wis.). You should have resigned long ago and if you cannot change course, you should be removed from office, asserted Senator Josh Hawley (R., M0.).

Hawleys colleague in the lower chamber, Homeland Security Committee chairman Mark Green (R., Fla.), promised to donors he would produce charges of high crimes and misdemeanors against Mayorkas. And Senator Roger Marshall (R., Kan.) introduced a draft no-confidence resolution to put the Senate on the record on Mayorkass job performance.

Hawley focused his questioning on the unaccompanied children now being forced to work manual labor jobs. Citing the New York Timess report from February, Hawley pointed to examples of minors being exploited throughout the country. Twelve-year-old roofers in Florida and Tennessee. Underage slaughterhouse workers in Delaware, Mississippi and North Carolina. Children sawing planks of wood on overnight shifts in South Dakota, the article read.

The Times followed up on its reporting Monday, explaining that the administration had missed warning signs about the increase in migrant child labor and the buck was being passed between the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Labor Department.

Our responsibility is to turn an unaccompanied child over to Health and Human Services within 72 hours. We are not involved in the process of when HHS turns that unaccompanied child over to a sponsor, explained Mayorkas, adding that Homeland Securitys worksite enforcement strategy is now focused on unscrupulous employers, including those who exploit children. After Senator Mitt Romney (R., Utah) pointed out that it sounded like the buck was being passed once again between Homeland Security and HHS, Mayorkas clarified he hadnt intended to point the finger and asserted the responsibility is with the government and American society as a collective.

Hawley pointed to the increase of child trafficking as well as child abuse among migrants since Mayorkas took office. The senator attributed the rise to the secretarys policies.

This massive surge began when you came to office. In your first year in office, there was a 342 percent surge of unaccompanied children across the border, explained Hawley. In 2021, you made the decision to change Title 42 to allow unaccompanied children to come into the United States and then to be sent into the interior of the country. Under the last administration, children were reunited with their families in their home country. You changed that and as soon as you changed it, the numbers exploded. That is your responsibility.

Why should you not be impeached for this?, asked Hawley.

Mayorkas rejected Hawleys various characterizations. The horrific exploitation of children is something that we do not condone. You are incorrectly attributing it to our policies, said Mayorkas. It is stunning to me to hear you say that the prior administration reunited children with their parents.

The secretary did not deny that the Biden administration allowed unaccompanied children to stay in the country, unlike single adults and families. Homeland Security has only removed 409 unaccompanied children despite 345,000 crossing since the beginning of fiscal year 2021, according to Fox News.

Hawley reiterated his view the administration was at fault, citing reports that its policies have led smugglers to tell migrant youth they had a better chance of being allowed to stay in the United States under Biden than they had under Trump. The Missouri senator also blamed the administration for continuing to lose track of children released into the interior.

During his questioning, Johnson probed Mayorkas on the sheer scale of the issue.

If [border security is] a priority, how did we let 4-5 million people in this country in a little over two years?, Johnson asked, adding that 22 states have populations less than 4 million people; 28 states have populations less than 5 million people. That is the magnitude of the problem.

You are failing miserably, explained Johnson to Mayorkas, pointing out that 890 deaths have occurred at the border in fiscal year 2022. Do you not care? Do you not have an ounce of human compassion for what your open border policy, the type of human depredation it is causing?

Romney challenged the secretarys high-level strategy focusing on the root causes of illegal immigration in this hemisphere, instead of focusing on border security.

I would note note that that is an impossible task. The United States of America is always going to be a more attractive place for people to come live than in the countries that youre describing. We have a stronger economy. People have much better lives here, much healthier lives and so forth. The idea that were somehow going to solve the root causes in all of Latin America of corruption of the kind of military threats going on. Its not going to happen. So were going to have to secure our border, Romney explained.

I would anticipate that if we continue to have the kind of global warming that weve been having, theres going to be an even greater demand to move into our country, said Romney. All the talk about we need to address root causesthis is taking our eye off the ball, which is we need to have our border secure.

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The governor of Oklahoma has called for the resignations of the sheriff and other top officials in a rural county after they were recorded talking about "beating, killing and burying" a father/son team of local reporters  and lamenting that they could no longer hang Black people with a damned rope.

Gov. Kevin Stitt called for McCurtain County Sheriff Kevin Clardy, county Commissioner Mark Jennings, sheriff's investigator Alicia Manning, and Jail Administrator Larry Hendrix to step down after the McCurtain County Gazette-News published an article over the weekend about what was captured on the recording.

I am both appalled and disheartened to hear of the horrid comments made by officials in McCurtain County, Stitt said in a statement released Sunday. There is simply no place for such hateful rhetoric in the state of Oklahoma, especially by those that serve to represent the community through their respective office.

Stitt, a Republican, said he has ordered the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation to initiate an investigation to determine whether any illegal conduct has occurred.

Bruce Willingham, who works for his family-owned newspaper, has turned the full audio over to the FBI and the Oklahoma Attorney Generals office, his lawyers said.

Meanwhile, dozens of county residents angered by the officials' comments picketed Monday outside the headquarters of the McCurtain County Commissioners in the town of Idabel, which is about 200 miles southwest of Oklahoma City, NBC affiliate KFOR of Oklahoma City reported.

Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt. (AP)

None of the four officials named by Stitt could be reached for comment, but late Monday the McCurtain County Sheriff's Office said in a statement that the recording was "illegally obtained," appears to have been altered, and may have been produced in violation of state law prohibiting secret recordings by third parties.

The office, which said it has received threats of violence and death over the saga, said it was investigating how the recording was obtained and whether it violated the secret recording law.

Investigative findings, the sheriff's office said, will be "forwarded to the appropriate authorities for felony charges to be filed on those involved."

The Willinghams also did not respond to inquiries from NBC News. But Kilpatrick Townsend, the law firm representing the Willingham family, said they appreciated the expressions of support.

"For nearly a year, they have suffered intimidation, ridicule and harassment based solely on their efforts to report the news for McCurtain County," the statement said.

For nearly a year, they have suffered intimidation, ridicule and harassment based solely on their efforts to report the news for McCurtain County.Law firm Kilpatrick Townsend

The latest furor erupted after Willingham, acting on a tip that the commissioners were illegally engaging in county business after the public meetings were over, left a recording device on March 6 in the commissioners' chamber, the newspaper reported.

Earlier that day, Willingham's son, Christopher Lee Willingham, who is also a reporter at the newspaper, had filed a lawsuit against Clardy, Manning and the commissioners in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma seeking unspecified damages. He claimed they were punishing him for his hard-hitting reporting by spreading "slander" about him.

When Willingham retrieved the device, he discovered that the conversation began with a grisly conversation about a fire victim being compared to "barbecue" before the group turned to talking about his son.

"My papaw would have whipped his ass, would have wiped him and used him for toilet paper," Manning said of the younger Willingham, according to the newspaper. "If my daddy hadn't been run over by a vehicle, he would have been down there."

Jennings then piped in, saying "I know where two big, deep holes are here if you ever need them."

"I've got an excavator," Clardy chimed in, according to the newspaper.

Jennings, according to the newspaper, then said he knew "two or three hit men" who belong to the Louisiana mafia.

"They're very quiet guys and would cut no fing mercy," he reportedly said.

Manning, according to the newspaper, discussed "who would get the blame if anything was done" to Christopher Lee Willingham's wife, Angie.

There was also "caustic" criticism of local District Attorney Mark Matloff, the newspaper reported in the first batch of recordings it released.

Some of the discussion included not only harsh criticism of judges, but also the possibility of assaults on judges here.Newspaper report

Matloff is not commenting on the report, a member of his staff said at the McCurtain County Courthouse.

"Some of the discussion included not only harsh criticism of judges, but also the possibility of assaults on judges here," the newspaper reported.

When the talk turned to who might run for sheriff against Clardy, Jenning recalled how a former sheriff "would take a damned Black guy and whoop their ass and throw them in the cell."

"Yeah," Clardy replied, according to the newspaper. "It's not like that no more."

"I know," said Jennings. "Take them down to Mud Creek and hang them up with a damned rope. But you can't do that anymore. They've got more rights than we've got."

Two more batches of recordings made by Willingham are to be released soon, his lawyers said.

The Willingham family has lived in the county for 120 years and has operated The McCurtain County Gazette-News for 40 years. Founded in 1905, it is a print-only publication, a rarity in the rapidly diminishing world of newspapers. And this is not the first time it has made national news.

In the wake of the 1995 bombing of the federal building in Oklahoma City, Willingham hired a freelancer named J.D. Cash who produced a number of scoops about the investigation into the deadly terror attack and who was later derided as a "conspiracy theorist" by some of the newspaper's competitors. Cash died in 2007.


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One-person households in Seoul have been on the rise and the Seoul Metropolitan Government has decided to use the power of those individuals' social media presence to promote the city's related welfare services. Gettyimagesbank



City gov't to harness solo citizens' social media power to better serve one-person households



By Ko Dong-hwan



The Seoul Metropolitan Government has started assembling a group of people who live alone in the city to act as online ambassadors to more actively promote the city's welfare services for one-person households.



The One-Person Households Division under the Seoul Metropolitan Government's Women and Family Policy Affairs Office said Monday the city authority began searching for 50 individuals in the capital, aged from their 20s to 50s. The draft for the selection of civic volunteers will be open for two weeks starting April 18.



The ambassadors will engage in the campaign through either Instagram, Facebook or a personal online blog in May and continue until November. Those who publish an online post advertising the city service at least once a month will be rewarded with up to 90,000 won ($70) each month.



The city government currently offers various welfare services for one-person households including: accompanying eligible people to hospitals; checking in on them during recovery; preparing nutritional meals for them; helping them with tenancy contracts; escorting them home safely after work; and financial counseling.



The services were launched as part of the city government's campaign to target "inconvenience in daily life, safety concerns and grievance in social networks" that particularly stood out among one-person households.





Women in their 20s and 30s represent a majority of the rising one-person households in Seoul and other cities across the nation. They thus call for city welfare services that foster their safety and quality of life. Gettyimagesbank
YEREVAN, APRIL 18, ARMENPRESS. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has said that by adopting the Madrid Principles as the basis for resolving the Nagorno Karabakh conflict in 2007, Armenia recognized Nagorno Karabakh to be part of Azerbaijan.

Pashinyan made the remarks in parliament in response to a question from Hayastan (Armenia) faction MP Artur Khachatryan.

The lawmaker asked the PM to clarify why the 2022 report on the governments program doesnt mention the right to self-determination of the people of Nagorno Karabakh when the 2021-2026 government program noted it as one of the bases for conflict resolution.

Pashinyan said that in the negotiations legacy which he received in 2018 there is no people of Nagorno Karabakh wording, but rather an entire population of Nagorno Karabakh wording. There words are highly important. Yes, the people is a constitutive entity under the Helsinki Act and all other acts. The population isnt a constitutive entity, meaning it is not an entity to sovereignty. And third, if we say self-determination, from whom and where are we self-determining? For example, why arent we saying let Armenia self-determine? Because Armenia self-determined with the 1991 Alma Ata Declaration. From whom? From the Soviet Union, because it was part of the Soviet Union, Pashinyan said.

PM Pashinyan explained that Armenia had a concept around this issue before 2007. The concept was the following: Nagorno Karabakh, like the others, is also self-determining from the Soviet Union, and there was a narrative that Nagorno Karabakh has never been part of Azerbaijan. In 2007 the Madrid Principles emerged, which stipulated that determining the status of Nagorno Karabakh and the entire process must be agreed with Azerbaijan. Why must it be agreed with Azerbaijan if we dont recognize Nagorno Karabakh as part of Azerbaijan? We have recognized Nagorno Karabakh to be part of Azerbaijan with the Madrid Principles. Ive said it is a problem when our negotiations content and public narrative dont match. Weve recognized but we didnt say, and all wars and fighting were related to this, he said.

PM Pashinyan added that an entity to self-determination is the one who wants to self-determine, but Nagorno Karabakh has been left out of the negotiations process in 1998. After this, the right to self-determination was simply left written in the Helsinki Final Act.

And today I am saying, lets decide, either we face this or lets note whats going to happen. I have information, I have the analysis, and I am saying, if we dont face this reality, its not going to happen, Pashinyan added.

MP Khachatryan argued that Pashinyan is equalizing self-determination with independence, whereas the Helsinki Final Act defines self-determination as something completely different. For example, the MP said, Armenia could self-determine and decide that it no longer needs a parliamentary republic and adopt theocracy. The MP argued that this is what the Helsinki Final Act is all about.

Pashinyan answered by saying that Azerbaijan has been saying the same thing during the entire negotiations process. They were also saying that self-determination doesnt mean that an independent state must exist. They were also saying that the entity to that self-determination arent the Armenians of Nagorno Karabakh alone, the Azerbaijanis are also an entity, they were saying that the Azerbaijanis must also decide. Thats why I am speaking about the people-population wording. Ive said back in 2019 that the negotiator of the Nagorno Karabakh issue must be a representative of the people of Nagorno Karabakh because the people of Nagorno Karabakh did not vote in our parliamentary elections, hence I dont have a mandate. Ive continuously and constantly expressed these positions, Pashinyan said.

Asked about his vision of a future status for NK, Pashinyan said there cant be any talk about a future status as long as the status it has so far isnt stipulated in the logic of the narrative voiced by the MP.

Speaking about the MPs observation regarding the ICJ ruling on the Kosovo issue, Pashinyan said that the ICJ had determined that self-determination doesnt require permission from central authorities. The Russian president also spoke about this in context of the events in Ukraine. He said that a region doesnt have to apply to the [central authorities] for self-determination. There was a lot of discussion back then, but no one noticed that in 2007, with the Madrid Principles, we already accepted that we must do it together with them, it cant be done unilaterally. Thats why I am saying that weve had a different concept before 2007, the Prime Minister said.
YEREVAN, APRIL 18, ARMENPRESS. The six troops wounded near the village of Tegh during the April 11 Azerbaijani attack are recovering, Healthcare Minister Anahit Avanesyan told lawmakers in parliament on April 18.

She said the condition of the survivors is getting better every day.

The one serviceman who was critically wounded is already in stable condition, she added.

None of them is in life-threatening condition anymore, and three of the six are still receiving hospital care, Avanesyan said.

On April 11, Armenian troops carrying out engineering works near the village of Tegh close to the border with Azerbaijan came under heavy gunfire in an unprovoked attack. Four Armenian soldiers were killed and six wounded.
From left, KIS director Michelle Quirin, student Je-young, U.S. Ambassador to Korea Philip Goldberg, student Lily and KIS Headmaster Min Sun-shik pose during the school's Human Rights Week 2023 at its Pangyo Campus in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province, April 7. Courtesy of Korea International School



By Kang Seung-woo



Korea International School (KIS) held an event to mark Human Rights Week (HRW) last week, highlighting the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and featuring expert guest speakers who addressed current global issues. The annual event took place from April 3 to 7 at KIS Pangyo Campus in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province.



HRW is organized by the Korea Human Rights Initiative (KHRI), a group of high school students who work yearlong to raise awareness and encourage action on important issues such as peace and justice, LGBTQ rights, gender equality and environmental sustainability.



KIS requested for participating students who gave comments to be identified only by their first names.



A KIS student and KHRI member named Je-young said he believes that events in the news are not so distant from human rights needs in Korea.



Guest speakers included a KIS high school social studies teacher who shared his experience growing up in Northern Ireland, and a person whose own experiences growing up as a sexual minority now inform his insights on how to best support the mental health of all LGBTQ youth.



Personal stories inspire empathy



An empathic connection to an issue often prompts a compassionate response. "One of our goals was to platform stories students could relate to," said Jenny, a KHRI member.



Agreeing that stories are powerful, Joseph, another KHRI member, said, "As global citizens, we need to be aware of issues that may not directly impact us."



Each HRW session closed with a discussion among student attendees, many of whom were glad for the chance to learn more about the U.N. SDGs topics covered. Students were also eager to take positive action.



"Get involved in service clubs," Lily, a KHRI member, said to encourage her peers. She also noted that KIS teachers work with students to develop sustainable service initiatives.



To conclude this year's HRW event, U.S. Ambassador to Korea Philip Goldberg delivered a speech to the high school students.



Ambassador Goldberg is a distinguished diplomat who has served in many countries around the world. His message to the KIS high school students emphasized the value of being a global citizen through awareness and action on human rights issues including education, health and clean water.



The ambassador also highlighted the relationship between the United States and Korea, as both countries work to address the climate crisis through carbon neutrality.



One key point that resonated with KIS students was Goldberg's acknowledgment of individual and collective responsibility to advance human rights.



"You all play a crucial role in advancing human rights," Goldberg said. "Movements to end poverty, to fight against climate change, defend LGBTQ+ rights and promote gender equality rely on the dedication and creativity of young leaders like you who envision a better world."



In closing, Goldberg acknowledged that many students in attendance would one day live outside of Korea. Events like HRW give KIS students the opportunity to think about the needs of their own community and the wider world they will one day engage with.


Jins visit marks the golden jubilee of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and South Korea

The two-day visit of South Korean foreign minister Park Jin to India earlier this month was an important milestone in Seoul implementing its recently launched Indo-Pacific Strategy. Foreign minister Park asserted that the two countries are engaged in contributive diplomacy to boost freedom, peace and prosperity in the region and beyond.

The visit was well covered in the South Korean media, highlighting that both countries are vibrant democracies with immense clout in international culture through Bollywood and K-Pop. Some observers have noted that both nations have a common rival in China, which poses major security challenges and leads international trade.

The South Korean establishment is not very vocal but is quite concerned about the creeping expansionism of China into the South China Sea and the increasing threat to Taiwan. As a country whose more than 80 per cent of the economy depends on foreign trade, South Korea is wary of any threat to the prevailing international maritime order which may impede free navigation for uninterrupted trade.

Foreign minister Park Jin is the author of South Koreas Indo-Pacific Strategy which was unveiled in December 2022. This was an important step as the previous Left-leaning administration of President Moon Jae-in was reluctant to clearly articulate its approach towards the region. The former Democratic Party government rarely used the term Indo-Pacific and continued to use Asia-Pacific to refer to the region, which in effect excluded India and Indian Ocean from having any strategic convergence with the Pacific.

Predictably, US national security adviser Jake Sullivan called the new policy a reflection of shared commitment to the regions security and growing prosperity. But the Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson categorised it as working towards exclusive coteries.

In its broad policy formulation, the Yoon governments Indo-Pacific Strategy brings South Korea more in alignment with the vision of the four Quad nations -- the United States, India, Australia and Japan -- that the entire Indo-Pacific region be firmly anchored in the practice of international norms and commitment to the rules-based international order.

Identifying India as a key partner in South Asia, the strategy devotes a paragraph to India affirming that South Korea will advance (its) special strategic partnership with India. South Korea will increase strategic communication and cooperation through high-level exchanges in foreign affairs and defence, while strengthening the foundation for enhanced economic cooperation by upgrading the ROK-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.

Mr Park Jins visit is an early step in the implementation of this new strategy. President Yoon Suk-yeol has been taking a more pronounced pro-US stand on international issues like the Ukraine-Russia conflict. In a significant move, President Yoon had attended the Nato summit in Spain in June 2022 to broaden South Koreas strategic partnership with the Western democracies.

The Yoon administration is also taking concrete and bold steps to seek innovative solutions to the historic irritants which bedevil bilateral relations with Japan. Greater strategic understanding between South Korea and Japan is critical for strengthening the democratic forces in the Indo- Pacific. Both Japan and South Korea have defence treaties with the United States. South Korea is Indias Special Strategic Partner and Japan is New Delhis Strategic and lobal Partner. The US has been quietly nudging the two countries to smoothen their relations. In early March, the South Korean government announced a scheme to pay compensation to its own citizens who were forced to work in Japanese factories during the Second World War. Seouls plan proposed that the South Korean companies who benefited from the historic 1965 Japan-ROK Treaty to normalise relations would donate to a $3 million fund for distribution among the survivors.

Mr Park Jins visit marks the golden jubilee of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and South Korea. Since the 1990s, after the advent of Indias Look East Policy, India-ROK relations have matured and have full bipartisan support in both the countries.

The core of the bilateral relationship continues to be economic. The bilateral trade touched a new high of $23 billion in 2022 but the trade deficit against India is a cause of worry. Recently, commerce minister Piyush Goyal was constrained to state publicly that he expected South Korean companies operating successfully in India to increase their sourcing from Indian manufacturers. He chided Korean manufacturers in India saying that they prefer to source components from South Korea even if these are more expensive compared to the Indian products.

South Korean companies need to make India a manufacturing hub and become full partners in Indias quest of Atma Nirbhar Bharat. Some strategic guidance from the South Korean leadership to their Korean chaebols could be a game-changer as the Indian market of 1.4 billion consumers is quite positive about purchasing Korean products.

South Korean economic players are upbeat about the opportunities in the growing Indian market. The prestigious Korean Institute for International Economic Planning recently opened its office in New Delhi. It has only two offices abroad, the other being in China.

Mr Park Jin said that the future economic partnership with India would be for supply chain stabilisation with India as a part of manufacturing value chains. India-South Korea scientific and technical cooperation will be speeded up in new areas like AI, Big Data, bio-technology and space exploration. It is notable that institutional linkages are getting stronger.

The Korean SME and Start-Up Agency recently signed a MOU with the Foundation for Innovation and Technology Transfer at IIT Delhi. Foreign minister Park Jins visit was timely and will speed up the second wave of South Korean investments in India, besides harmonising Indian and South Korean perceptions and actions to ensure a free, open and peaceful Indo-Pacific.
The bishop of Hong Kong began his visit, at the invitation of the official archdiocese of the Chinese capital. Welcomed by Archbishop Li Shan and a few dozen faithful, he prayed in the cathedral before an image of the Jesuit pioneer of Christianitys inculturation in China. His visits goal is to promote exchanges and interactions between the two sides.

Beijing (AsiaNews/Agencies)  Bishop Stephen Chow of Hong Kong began his visit to Beijing, on the path set by Matteo Ricci (1552-1610), the great Jesuit pioneer of the mission and inculturation of Christianity in China.

Welcomed yesterday upon his arrival in the Chinese capital, Bishop Chow took part in an evening prayer in the Church of the Saviour with Archbishop Li Shan, who has chaired the Chinese Catholic Patriotic Association since last summer, and a few dozen faithful, an image of Matteo Ricci in front of the altar.

Known in China as Li Madou, the great Jesuit pioneer was declared venerable last December by Pope Francis with the promulgation of the decree on heroic virtues, the first step towards beatification.

Bishop Chow, a Jesuit like Matteo Ricci, is the first bishop of Hong Kong to make an official visit to the Archdiocese of Beijing since the former British colony was returned to China in 1997.

In 2008 the then Coadjutor Bishop John Tong had been invited to attend the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympics, but he was not allowed to meet Archbishop Li Shan.

Bishop Chow, who is accompanied by Vicar General Fr Peter Choy and Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Ha, will remain in Beijing until Friday. During his stay, he is expected to visit important sites and organisations of the "official" Catholic community, including the Theological Seminary where many future Chinese priests study.

When, on 9 March, he announced the visit, after receiving the invitation from the Archdiocese of Beijing, Bishop Chow stressed that the mission of the Diocese of Hong Kong is to be a bridge Church and promote exchanges and interactions between the two sides.

The long-awaited trip comes a few days after Bishop Shen Bin was transferred to Shanghai by Chinese authorities in a unilateral decision taken despite the agreement with the Holy See on episcopal appointment signed in 2018 and renewed for a second time last October.
Iraq is a country facing the most and acting the least, says one expert. Over the next decade, up to 90 per cent of archaeological sites in southern Iraq are at risk from dry winters and hotter summers. Salt left from enhanced evaporation creates a crust that devours everything. Increasingly, farmers and herders are moving to the cities.

Baghdad (AsiaNews)  Iraqs ancient archaeological sites are threatened by climate change, including increasingly intense sandstorms and salinisation, this in a country facing the most and acting the least, says Iraqi archaeologist Aqeel Mansarawi.

Over the next decade, he warns sand could cover 80 to 90 per cent of the archaeological sites. One of them is Umm al-Aqarib, an important Sumerian town in southern Mesopotamia that dates back more than four thousand years, and covers an area of five square kilometres.

The city reached its peak in 2350 BC but now the site is threatened and could disappear. Not only has it suffered from the looting of antiquities in the past because of poor monitoring, but now climate change could bury it under sand.

More than 10 sandstorms have hit the country last year, with visible effects at the site. Before excavating can start, now Archaeological missions will have to put more effort, Mansarawi explained.

Extending across what was once called in antiquity the Fertile Crescent, the land between the Tigris and Euphrates, Iraq is rich in resources, but now symbolises the environmental crisis that is facing the planet.

Sandstorms, rising temperatures and declining water resources, are having an impact not only on human health but also on the countrys cultural heritage.

This worries the local Church. Card Louis Raphael Sako, patriarch of the Chaldean Church, had already raised the issue when he was archbishop of Kirkuk. For the cardinal, Iraqs cultural heritage is a "universal" good that is worth "more than oil".

Speaking in 2016 at the "International Conference for the Safeguarding of Cultural Heritage in Conflict Areas" in Dubai (UAE), he said that protecting such heritage was everyones responsibility. On that occasion, heads of state and government, scholars, Islamic and Christian religious leaders, historians, archaeologists and cultural activists came together to discuss ways to preserve the cultural legacy of the past.

For now, the winds are "more loaded with dust" and "carry fragments of the soil, especially sand and silt, which produce erosion and the crumbling of ancient buildings," lamented Jaafar al-Jotheri, professor of archaeology at Iraq's Al-Qadisiyah University.

The cause, ins view, is drier winters and longer, hotter summers with temperature that exceed 50 degrees and "weaken the soil[s] and fragment them because of the lack of vegetation".

Mark Altaweel, professor of Near Eastern archaeology at University College London, blames another factor, salinisation, due to the very dry" environment. When water evaporates very quickly, only the salt residues remain, which form a crust that devours everything.

Iraq is one of the five countries most affected by the main factors climate change, the first of which are long periods of drought, according to UN reports.

Although the emergency is largely due to the lack of rain, Iraqi authorities are especially critical of Turkey and Iran for building dams upriver, which they view as the main factor in limiting the flow of water.

Still, Jotheri notes that Iraq has the "worst hydraulic management. Even today, farmers resort to flood irrigation, a technique widely considered a huge waste.

What is more, with water shortages gradually driving farmers and herders to cities, land is abandoned, and the soil becomes even more vulnerable to winds, Jotheri adds.

Already in 2021, then Iraqi President Barham Salih raised the alarm, noting that desertification affects 39 per cent of Iraqi land, a percentage expected to increase.
Another political twist follows last months ruling by the Constitutional Court annulling the September elections and reinstating the 2020 assembly. The vote is expected in the coming months. The decision was justified by saying that it was the will of the people to ensure greater stability to the country.

Kuwait City (AsiaNews)  Kuwaits Crown Prince, who enjoys extensive powers attributed by the emir, dissolved the recently restored National Assembly setting the stage for new parliamentary elections in the coming months.

This decision comes a month after the Constitutional Court annulled last Septembers parliamentary election, in which the opposition made gains, and reinstated the previous legislature.

For some time, the Arab Gulf state, an OPEC member, has been grappling with an institutional crisis caused by a tug-of-war between the government and the National Assembly, which has hampered fiscal reforms.

Last year, the latter was dissolved to end feuding between the two branches of government, but an early election that did not bring stability.

"We decided to dissolve the 2020 National Assembly, which was reinstated by the Constitutional Court ... and we will call for holding general elections in the next months," said Crown Prince Sheikh Meshal al-Ahmad al-Sabah in an address on behalf of the ruling emir, who has handed over most of his duties to him.

The crown prince added that the "will of the people" required new elections, plus legal and political reforms to take the country to a new phase, without specifying what changes he had in mind.

The Arab country, a US ally, has a consolidated budget and substantial revenues, but infighting and political gridlock have negatively impacted investment and reforms aimed at reducing heavy dependence on oil revenues.

Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Nawaf al-Sabah, the emir's son, resigned in January due to friction with the parliament elected last year. He was reappointed to the same post in March, and announced a new cabinet this month.

The emirate is a constitutional monarchy, with a parliamentary system of government, the oldest in the Gulf, with significant powers vested in the legislative branch, including passing and blocking laws, questioning ministers and presenting votes of no confidence against senior officials.

The 50 members of Kuwaits National Assembly (Majlis al-Umma al-Kuwaytiyy), who are elected every four years, can remove the prime minister and other ministers and, confirm the appointment of the crown prince and emir, whose throne is hereditary. Traditionally, its political line tends to be conservative.

The countrys resident population is about 4.4 million people, a majority of whom are expatriates without the right to vote and unlikely to obtain citizenship.

Its first parliament was elected in 1963, two years after independence from the United Kingdom on 19 June 1961.

The first Arab nation to adopt a constitution in 1962, Kuwait is among the worlds top oil exporters (90 per cent of fiscal receipts). Yet, it has been plagued by corruption and political instability, caused by conflict between parliament and the government, holding back its economic development.
Today's headlines: at least 133,000 people in earthquake-hit areas in Turkey will vote out of province, 600,000 have changed polling station; Vietnamese blogger who disappeared in Thailand is in the hands of Hanoi police; Taiwan ready to buy 400 missiles from the USA in an anti-Chinese bid; In India, murders and suicides in the army are on the rise; Highs and lows in the estimates of the Russian economy at the time of war (and sanctions).

CHINA - PAKISTAN

A Chinese migrant worker was accused of blasphemy (insulting Mohammed) in northern Pakistan and his office stormed by colleagues. Not finding him, hundreds headed for the local police station, but the officers had transferred him by helicopter to a safe location. The scene of the incident was the mega-plant in Dasu, Kohistan district, Sindh.

TURKEY

At least 133,000 people affected by the devastating earthquake on 6 February will vote outside their home province in the 14 May elections. Another 600,000, the Electoral Commission announced, have changed their polling stations. The vote represents a crucial step for Erdogan and for charting Turkey's future, while support is growing for opposition leader Kilicdaroglu.

VIETNAM

A Vietnamese blogger who disappeared while in Thailand (suspected kidnapping by secret agents) is in the hands of the police. Duong Van Thai, known as Thai Van Duong, fled abroad in 2018 fearing persecution for his posts and videos critical of the Hanoi government and communist leaders. He was in Bangkok and had applied for refugee status.

ISRAEL - PALESTINE

A gunman, wanted by the police, opened fire in the disputed neighbourhood of Sheikh Jarrah, in East Jerusalem, already the scene of violence and clashes with Palestinians in the past. Two people were injured in the attack and it is only the latest episode in a long series of attacks that have characterised Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting and prayer, which ends on 21 April.

TAIWAN - UNITED STATES

Taiwan intends to purchase up to 400 US-made Harpoon missiles in response to the Chinese threat. On 7 April, the Pentagon announced a contract worth over 1.1 billion without specifying the buyer, adding that production is scheduled to be completed by March 2029. And it confirmed support for Taipei to 'maintain sufficient self-defence capability'.

INDIA

The murder of four soldiers at the hands of a fellow soldier has brought to light the phenomenon of killings - and suicides - that is becoming increasingly frequent in the Indian army. At the root of the gestures would be a situation of growing stress, tension and depression within the military. The latest incident took place yesterday at the base in Bathinda, Punjab. There have been more than 800 suicides since 2017.

RUSSIA

According to estimates by the Russian Ministry of the Economy, Russia's gas exports in 2023 will fall by 6.7%, but it is hoped for an overall growth in the next three years of 2.9%, as the lower traffic to the West will be compensated by deliveries 'to friendly and neutral countries'. GDP drops by 3% in the current year, to recover by 2% in 2024.

ARMENIA - AZERBAIJAN

At the European Heavy Athletics Championships in Yerevan an incident occurred during the opening ceremony at the 'Karen Demircayan' sports hall. At the moment of raising the flag of Azerbaijan, one of those present snatched it from the girl holding it and set her on fire. In response to the gesture, the Azerbaijani athletes immediately abandoned the competition.
President Yoon Suk Yeol speaks during a cabinet meeting at the presidential office in Yongsan, April 18. Yonhap



President Yoon Suk Yeol vowed Tuesday to eradicate drug crimes, saying what's "most shocking" is the wide distribution of drugs to teenagers.



Yoon made the remark during a Cabinet meeting, saying drug crimes have been on the increase, with the number of drug offenders expected to surpass 20,000 for the first time this year.



"What's most shocking is that drugs have been widely distributed to teenagers who are the future generation," he said during the meeting at the presidential office. "Together with law enforcement authorities, the government's collective response is strongly required. We must all join forces to root out drug crimes that destroy the nation."



Earlier this month, Yoon ordered a stern crackdown on drug rings after learning of a recent scam where high school students were duped into drinking drug-laced beverages.



On Tuesday, he referred to a case of teenagers joining a drug smuggling and distribution ring, and another case of enough drugs for 390,000 people being distributed via Telegram, the dark web and cryptocurrencies.



"Until 10 years ago, the Republic of Korea was able to remain a drug-clean nation thanks to the cooperation and efforts of many agencies, including not only the prosecution and police, but also the Coast Guard, health authorities and customs services," Yoon said.









"But all of a sudden, under the neglect of government authorities, drugs are not only ravaging people's health and minds, but also destroying teenagers' dreams and hopes," he said.





This image shows confiscated drugged beverages used in a drug scam targeting students, April 17. Yonhap
Shared on the California-based company's social media accounts, the post attached below reveals three output levels for the redesigned 302 series. The 302 White Label opens the list with a naturally-aspirated V8 tuned to a minimum of 500 horsepower. The mid-range 302 Yellow Label promises at least 750 horsepower, obviously made possible by a supercharger on top of the fourth-gen Coyote V8. Saleen isn't stopping here, though. Currently under development, the 2024 model year 302 will flaunt Racecraft suspension componentry, interior upgrades, improved aero, as well as better stopping power. Unfortunately for prospective customers, Saleen doesn't go into the finer details. From the render published on social media, it appears that five-spoke wheels mounted with low-profile rubber boots are on the menu as well.We also see new front and rear bumpers, a ducktail-inspired trunk lid spoiler, and Saleen badging and decals on the front fenders. The render also makes do without the actual car's gas cap door, which is a funny but understandable mistake on the artist's part. The side window treatment is a bit curious as well, but only time will tell if Saleen will actually use body-color paint in that area for a more retro aesthetic of the side profile.Codenamed S650, the seventh-generation Mustang is probably the last to feature internal combustion. The S750 is reportedly starting production in May 2029 on the GE2 platform of the second-generation Mustang Mach-E. Ford hasn't commented on this hearsay yet.Pretty much an S550 updated in every single imaginable way, the 2024 model year Mustang continues with the 2.3-liter EcoBoost and 5.0-liter Coyote of its predecessor. Both engines were thoroughly redesigned or upgraded. The EcoBoost now makes 315 horsepower (5 more than before) and 350 pound-feet (475 Nm) on full song, and it only comes with an automatic tranny.Equipped with two intakes and two throttle bodies, the Coyote in the GT is nothing to scoff at due to 480 horsepower and 415 pound-feet (563 Nm) right off the bat. Choosing the active-valve exhaust system from the options list adds 6 more horsepower and 3 more pound-feet of torque. As for the Dark Horse, make that 500 horsepower precisely and the same kind of torque as the active-valve-exhaust GT (418 pound-feet or 567 Nm).It's a very strong first-year lineup, and Ford should also be proud of the Mustang for outliving the internal combustion-engined Camaro and Challenger. Both are going the way of the dodo for electric vehicles, with Chevrolet expected to roll out an electric sedan under the Camaro moniker. As for Dodge, a three-door electric coupe marketed as the Charger will be manufactured in Canada on the Stellantis group's STLA Large platform.
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Many of the new models follow the trend of the electric revolution, from the Volkswagen ID.7 and BMW i7 M70 xDrive sedans to the Mercedes-Maybach EQSand 2024 MG Cyberster electric roadster that looks like a solidalternative to the iconic Mazda MX-5 Miata. But the Maybach EQS SUV, for example, will be a tough sell in China as tensions are still there, and it's made in Alabama, the United States.Concurrently, the flip side of the coin, believe it or not, is the-powered third-generation 2024 Lincoln Nautilus mid-size luxury crossover SUV. Born as the Lincoln MKX during the mid-2000s, it evolved throughout two generations to remind us of the classic science fiction adventure novel by Jules Verne, 'Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea,' and its mysterious Captain Nemo, leader of the fictional crew of submarine Nautilus. The name change occurred for the 2019 model year during the mid-life cycle refresh of the second iteration.Now, just as the original Nautilus was a sanctuary for Nemo and his crew, so is the Lincoln model intended for the upcoming owners; complete with signature design, a fully reimagined cockpit featuring a giant full-width-dashboard screen, the Lincoln BlueCruis e 1.2 hands-free highway driver-assist system, and some mighty traditional powertrain choices. Well, sort of, in the sense that they are classic for the times that we live in, given the downsized turbo or hybrid decisions.Actually, now that we mentioned them let us get the engines out of the way. As such, Lincoln's all-new 2024 Nautilus will be produced not in America but in China (Hangzhou, Zhejiang by Changan Ford) with a choice of a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine aiming for 250 ponies and 275 lb.-ft. (373 Nm) of torque when mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard. The only other option is a 2.0-liter hybridized mill packing a 100-electric motor for a combined system output of 310 horsepower. Adaptive suspension is also on the menu, alongside four exterior hues - Red Carpet, Diamond Red, Chroma Caviar and Blue Panther, plus three cockpit themes - Black Onyx and Medium Light Space Gray, Smoked Truffle, or Black Onyx and Allura Blue.There is also a Jet Appearance Package, plus "the ultimate in Lincoln luxury," aka the new, exclusive Lincoln Black Label theme Redwood alongside "the popular Chalet." Dressed with 22-inch wheels, H2 Pixel Headlamps ,and animated tail lamps, and with OTA software updates for the cinema-like cockpit and more, the 2024 Nautilus is expected to reach nationwide American dealerships early next year. Ordering has already opened, and pricing is also in - a $50,415 starting MSRP for Premiere, $54,750 for Reserve, and at least $74,465 for the Black Label trim.
The Urus will inevitably go electric, with the switch to zero-emission propulsion expected to happen in 2029. The first-generation Urus will pave the way with plug-in hybrid assistance for its twin-turbocharged V8, which is shared with a number of Volkswagen Group brands.Lamborghini also plans to roll out a modern-day Espada no later than 2028, namely an electric 2+2 gran turismo with seating for at least four peeps. The Huracan is due a ground-up redesign in 2024 for the 2025 model year, and obviously enough, it's going plug-in hybrid for a number of reasons. Two stand out more than the rest.On the one hand, Lamborghini wants to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. But more importantly, everyone and their dog has gone plug-in hybrid in the relentless search for better performance in a straight line and better handling in the twisties. Ferrari and McLaren come to mind with the twin-turbocharged V6 plug-in hybrids marketed under the 296 and Artura monikers.Masterfully imagined with Revuelto styling cues by Estonia-based pixel artist Siim Parn, the Huracan-replacing supercar isn't going to downsize to six cylinders. The all-new supercar's platform can easily accommodate a naturally-aspirated V10 like the outgoing 5.2, but alas, there are growing indications of a twin-turbo V8 with a displacement of 4.0 liters. Not the Porsche-Audi V8 of the Urus, but a different mill that's reportedly capable of redlining at 10,000 rpm.Chief executive officer Stephan Winkelmann told journalists during a preview event of the Revuelto that it's a plug-in hybrid affair, in line with Lamborghini's plan to electrify all three model lines. Chief technical officer Rouven Mohr didn't confirm the exact number of cylinders, but did tease us by mentioning between six and 12 cylinders. Considering that Audi is bidding farewell to the internal combustion-engined R8, it wouldn't make too much sense to keep the 5.2-liter V10 in production for the Huracan-replacing supercar.While it may be expensive to develop the aforementioned twin-turbo V8, fewer cylinders and less displacement equal better fuel economy and reduced emissions. The way a force-fed engine develops torque at low RPMs is also noteworthy. While it may not have that certain something of the V10, the eight-cylinder lump is more than appropriate in this application due to its redline.Going for two fewer cylinders isn't a sacrilege either because Lambo has a history of entry-level models powered by V8s, beginning with the Urraco. If the yet-to-be-named replacement of the Huracan looks anything like the render below, it will certainly steal customers away from both the Prancing Horse and McLaren.
SUV

@farhanazahra91 Happy birthday Nur Fatima Az zahra yang ke 5 ?????? happy dia dapat G Wagon yang dia nak, sampai dia asyik mintak nak pegang kunci je hahaha ? original sound - Farhana Zahra

File this under "rich people do outrageous stuff." A new viral video is getting people hot under the collar and itchy in the fingers. As it so happens, it is somehow related to our area of interest since it involves a brand-new Mercedes G-Wagen, custom ordered for its new owner This G-Wagen is in the news because the owner is a 5-year-old girl who only got it as her motivation to stay in school and continue her education to become a doctor. The girl is the second child of Malaysian businesswoman Farhana Zahra, famous in her native country for her wealth and the outrageous ways she chooses to show it off. She's a show-off, is what we're saying.Earlier this month, Zahra posted a video in which she was talking with her daughter Fatima about her refusal to return to school after a short illness. Fatima argued that she was too young to attend school, but her mother wouldn't hear of it. Instead, she asked Fatima what it would take to get her back to school, to which the little girl replied that she wanted either a green Mercedes G-Wagen or a BMW, preferably in the same color. She may be young, but she knows what she wants.On her fifth birthday, Fatima got her wish: a dusty green G-Wagen wrapped in ribbons, surrounded by balloons, inside a transparent case up on a trailer. Not a toy, but a real car, delivered on the flatbed to its apparently not-very-enthusiastic new owner. The video posted by Zahra showed Fatima's underwhelming but not surprising reaction to the gift (she is only 5, after all!) and included the message that getting her wish granted would serve as motivation to continue with her education.The intention is admirable, no doubt about it, but it's the execution that's getting people upset. Getting a brand new car  an, no less  as a present for a 5-year-old kid is akin to throwing your cash into the garbage bin because the kid won't be able to enjoy it, nor appreciate it in any way. At best, it's a gift you give yourself because you, the parent, will be doing all the driving. But you'll still be "depriving" your kid of a nice birthday present.Zahra is no stranger to controversy on social media. A skeptic could even conclude that the multi-millionaire is courting it intentionally to get clicks because she does it way too often for it to be a coincidence.In the past, Zahra came under fire for posting videos of herself withdrawing as much as $500,000 in cash and filling duffel bags with it, and once, for complaining about how a Lamborghini was a poor choice for a daily driver because you could only fit $500K into its trunk. Where should a rich woman put the other $2 million? she asked.
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Photo: Howe & Howe

kW

In the U.S. there's only one company in the business of making firefighting robots these days. It's called Howe & Howe, it is owned by defense contractor Textron, and offers at the time of writing a lineup of three such beasts, all of them part of a family known as Thermite.Two of its members are called RS1 and RS3, and are tracked, internal combustion engine machines meant to be deployed by firefighters in dangerous areas and help put out hazardous flames.In 2021, Howe & Howe showed the world the EV2 , an electric variant of the existing robots meant to reach places where-powered vehicles can't: oxygen-deprived environments, high-temperature areas, and so on.We don't have any info on how well the EV2 was received by fire departments, but judging by the fact that Howe & Howe is getting ready to show a new model of the Thermite lineage, it probably made quite the impression.The new robot is called Thermite EV1, and it's a slightly smaller version of the EV2 - about half the size, at 75 inches long, 38 inches wide, and 51 inches high (190 x 97 x 130 cm). We still don't know exactly what powers it, except for the fact it uses the latest in high-capacity battery technology and has a greater range.We do know its industrial-grade, belted rubber tracks are set in motion by a 15liquid-cooled motor, and that the thing can move at speeds of up to 5 mph (8 kph)  for reference, the bigger robot is a real speedster, at 8 mph (13 kph) top speed. The contraption can be operated from a distance of 300 meters (984 feet) and can hold enough juice to run for as much as 20 hours at a time.The robot can carry anything from a nozzle to all sorts of attachments. It allows for 700 gallons (2,650 liters) per minute of water or some other fire retardant (maybe even the mixture of the powdered aluminum and iron oxide that gives the family its name) to be sprayed at the fire. And it is equipped with a winch rated at 5,000 pounds (2,268 kg).Howe & Howe will first show the Thermite EV1 in the flesh at the FDIC International show which opens its doors in Indianapolis, Indiana, on April 24. The EV2 will of course accompany it. There is no info at the time of writing on how much such a machine costs.
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Like other Japanese carmakers, Honda did not impress the world with itspush. It makes remarkably reliable combustion vehicles and certainly has the technology to start an EV revolution, but Honda lacked the ambition. Its position is especially shaky in the Chinese market, where consumers have embraced electromobility, and combustion vehicles are getting harder to sell. Its e:N lineup of electric cars hasn't been particularly successful , although Honda wants to change that.At Auto Shanghai 2023, the Japanese carmaker unveiled two EV prototypes from the second-generation e:N Series EV models. The e:NP2 and e:NS2 will soon enter production in China, with deliveries planned for early next year. The motor show also marked the unveiling of the e:NPrologue concept that previews the third generation of e:N models, which will be based on a dedicated EV platform.The e:NP2 and e:NS2 prototypes mark a refining of the current e:N models, with the aim to offer improved dynamics, modern technologies, and a beautiful design. Both are crossovers, but Honda claims they blend the utility of an SUV with the sleek form of a sedan. Honda promises a "unique driving pleasure" thanks to a new sense of "oneness with the vehicle." This reminds us of the Jinba Ittai concept of Mazda vehicles, which symbolizes the same thing. Honda Connect 4.0 technology will be integrated into the new vehicles.For two models very close to production, Honda offers surprisingly few details, including the cars' pictures. We would've loved to learn more about the technologies, although we think the Japanese carmaker will re-use the existing platform from the e:NS1 and e:NP1. There's not even a cockpit picture accompanying the press release. Still, we expect Honda to offer more information in the coming days.The e:N SUV Prologue is intriguing, previewing the third generation of the same EV lineup. Honda sure wants us to know that it plans for the future, although the design is not that different from the second-generation EVs. Still, future vehicles will adopt the "e:N Architecture W" developed exclusively for the e:N Series EV models. The production models based on this concept will arrive before the end of 2024. Honda promises that the future EVs will feature Honda's latest safety and driver assistance systems, as well as AI-powered Honda Connect technologies. They will also raise the vehicle dynamics to a new level to pursue the "joy of driving," another shout-out to a car brand's slogan. We're sure the BMW folks are delighted.
Starting out with a motorcycle permit just because he could get one two years earlier than a driver's license, Mircea keeps his passion for bikes (motor or no motor) alive to this day. His lifelong dream is to build his own custom camper van.

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President Yoon Suk Yeol speaks during a Cabinet meeting at the presidential office in Yongsan District, Seoul, Tuesday. Joint Press Corps



President dusts off playbook of bashing unionists to raise approval rating



By Nam Hyun-woo



President Yoon Suk Yeol is recalibrating his focus on reforming South Korea's labor union culture, an agenda that salvaged his dismal job approval ratings months ago, in an apparent effort to work his way out of a string of diplomatic controversies weakening his grip on state affairs.



During a Cabinet meeting, Tuesday, Yoon slammed some companies' hiring practice of giving favors to employees' children, saying such preferential employment policy is "very wrong."



"Some domestic companies' collective bargaining agreements maintain clauses forcing the businesses to prioritize hiring employees' children," Yoon said. "This is a very wrong practice."



According to data released by the Ministry of Employment and Labor in August last year, 58 out of 1,057 domestic companies employing more than 100 workers had collective bargaining agreements containing clauses that favor the hiring of employees' children or family members.



Of them, carmaker Kia is known for having a collective bargaining agreement that forces the company to hire one immediate family member of a union member who died from illness while employed, children of retired employees or those who worked for more than 25 straight years.



"The practice of hereditary employment goes against our Constitutional spirit and is an unfair succession of privileges, which deprives our future generation of opportunities," Yoon said.



"I have always stressed that the first step toward labor reform is consolidating the rules and laws in labor-management relations," the president said, asking Cabinet members to make efforts to root out those practices.



Yoon's comments are interpreted as an effort to return to his playbook of criticizing South Korea's labor unions and labor market structure to boost public support for his administration.



Last summer, Yoon's approval rating hovered between 25 and 35 percent, but rose to almost 40 percent in the winter after the president took a hardline stance against illegal strikes by unionized truckers and initiated labor reforms by demanding large labor unions to boost financial transparency.



However, the momentum came to a halt following public backlash for the president's handling of South Korea's historical issues with Japan while attempting to improve Seoul's relations with Tokyo, and his office's response to leaked Pentagon documents that purportedly showed the U.S. spied on Yoon's secretaries.



The labor reform drive is also suffering setbacks due to controversy in recent months fueled by the government's hasty efforts to overhaul the country's statutory workweek system. Following the controversy, the government paused its overhaul effort and is now listening to public opinions.



"Regarding the plan to add more flexibility to the country's workweek system, the government is currently gathering extensive public opinions through one-on-one surveys and sample surveys," Yoon said.



"Both the results and contents of such surveys should be disclosed, as well as the process. In particular, the survey's sample setting system should be scientifically and objectively representative and properly disclosed."





Members of the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions hold up signs during a rally against the government's labor policy near the National Assembly in Seoul, Dec. 3, 2022. AP-Yonhap



During the meeting, Yoon also called for improvements to the country's fiscal prudence and criticized the previous Moon Jae-in government for causing the national debt to snowball.



"The national debt has surpassed the 1,000 trillion won ($758 billion) mark for the first time in our nation's history," Yoon said. "About 600 trillion won of debt was accumulated for the first 70 years after the government was founded, but 400 trillion won was added during the previous administration alone."



The president noted that "passing on the burden caused by wanton expenditures is nothing more than an exploitation of the future generation," and urged the National Assembly to engage in discussions to pass a bill containing codes for fiscal stability.





A North Korean fisherman, who was captured near the eastern inter-Korean maritime boundary, is handed over to North Korean authorities in the border truce village of Panmunjom on Nov. 7, 2019. Yonhap
Photo: SpaceX

Photo: SpaceX

After a pressure valve-related anomaly in Starship booster B4's labyrinth of liquid oxygen feed lines, SpaceX opted not to risk even the remote chance of a catastrophic incident taking place on the platform's very first orbital test flight. The reaction to the incident on social media tended to range from mild amusement at Elon Musk's misfortune to quipping about the proposed next launch attempt date being April 20th. Yup, Starship's very first orbital test flight might take place on 4/20. Talk about blazing it to the max.

SpaceX eventually attempted the launch on April 20th , resulting exactly in the disastrous outcome they wanted to avoid in the first place.But before you mock SpaceX as many did with NASA after its three back-to-back launch scrubs of Artemis I last year, we urge you to refrain from taking to your keyboards just yet. In spite of everything negative that you could say about SpaceX or any single person who works for the company, you should give Starship a chance. In truth, the online human-crewed spaceflight fandom space has had a real negative Nancy complex lately. As a website that reported live at the first two Artemis I in the summer of last year, we've seen firsthand how badly people can react to back-to-back heartbreaking launch aborts.Strictly from our own impression during our coverage at Cape Canaveral during Artemis I, local bars along the Space Coast were full of people bemoaning how NASA "dropped the ball" christening the new flagship SLS booster rocket. Some even declared NASA may as well concede the Moon to Russia and China and call it quits altogether. In a way, it's not hard to understand why someone would make such a grandiose statement immediately after watching the launch scrubs live.What this means in regards to SpaceX and Starship is that the public at large can get pretty ticked off when space launches don't go right the first time. When all the misgivings of other Elon Musk-related drama in SpaceX's periphery are added to the equation, it seems to make for a pretty toxic and negative public sentiment surrounding Starship. That's in spite of how objectively amazing it is as a piece of engineering, whether you're an Elon fan or not.Now, we should preface that we understand why people might think Starship is a ridiculous machine. Think about it for a second, 390 feet (119 m) tall, 16.7 million lbs (74.5 M.N) of thrust out of a scarcely believable 33 liquid methane and O2-powered Raptor engines? Oh, and very nearly the entirety of the vehicle is designed to be completely reusable. That sounds like something a teenager would build in Kerbal Space Program or a space travel-related Minecraft mod. It doesn't sound like something that'd actually be practical to operate in the real world, right? Well, at least for another few days, all the speculation will remain just that. I.e., all in our heads and not any kind of proven science. In the meantime, public sentiment that Starship was the wrong choice to serve as the lunar lander vehicle for the Artemis program remains prevalent across the internet.As recently as 2019, reports abounded that even NASA themselves were somewhat annoyed with SpaceX for somewhat dubious assumptions about when Starship will be ready to carry live astronauts into space. Of course, the subsequent global health crisis gave the perfect excuse for everybody to forget about SpaceX moving the goalposts a few times on delivery dates. But in 2023, it's the public at large, as well as NASA again, who's liable to blister SpaceX if subsequent orbital test launches continue to be scrubbed as Artemis I was.But whichever way you slice it, whether you think Starship is an absurd machine or not, it's time we space travel junkies accept that SpaceX is going to be a vital, if not THE most vital, component to fulfilling the doctrine of the Artemis Accords. An international coalition of 23 U.S.-allied nations who've agreed to use NASA and SpaceX hardware to get a wide array of people, not just North Americans, onto the surface of the Moon and beyond within the next few years. With that being the case, all the SpaceX haters ought to be rooting for Starship to succeed instead of reveling in an albeit minor failure.We end with a little dissertation for you all to ponder. Remember how many people hailed the SLS as a failure after three Artemis I launch scrubs? Well, you should also remember how these same people all collectively shut their mouths when the candle finally did light up.Just remember, folks, Rome wasn't built in a day. Conversely, we're pretty confident SpaceX can fix Starship's faulty fueling hardware in time to celebrate its first successful orbital test with Snoop Dogg and Willy Nelson on their favorite day of the year.
This video stars the actual car that Dodge used for the world premiere in Las Vegas, where it was flown by helicopter to the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. The stunt nearly didn't happen due to an overweight condition, which Tim Kuniskis' team solved by trimming the steel plate on which the new Demon 170 was transported.The big kahuna made an erroneous claim at the beginning of this episode of Jay Leno's Garage, saying that everything other than the sheet metal is brand new. Oh really? That's why the most powerful and quickest series-production muscle car in the world features the shoddy interior with awful plastics of every other Challenger post-2015 facelift? Clearly not brand new, the Demon 170 does boast a few substantial changes.From the outset, Dodge intended to upgrade the Demon into something more exciting. It ended up reworking the 6.2-liter supercharged V8 from the inside out, and in the process, Dodge blew a whopping eight powerplants to get everything right. Modified to run on everything from E10 to E85, the Demon 170 truly comes alive when the percentage of ethanol reaches 85 percent of the fuel.1,025 horsepower used to be hypercar territory not that long ago. As a brief refresher, the Bugatti Veyron EB 16.4 entered production in 2005 with 987 horsepower on tap from an 8.0-liter W16 augmented by four turbochargers, hence the 16.4 suffix in its name. Although not as torquey as the French hypercar from nearly two decades ago (pardon the "not that long ago" from earlier), the Demon 170 still is torquier than plenty of diesel-engined trucks of the heavy-duty variety.Kuniskis told Leno that such power and torque wouldn't have meant anything without a proper tire-wheel combo. Dodge collaborated with Mickey Thompson for the street-legal drag radials of the Demon 170, whereas the 18- by 8-inch and 17- by 11-inch wheels come in two guises. Forged aluminum is standard, whereas the carbon-fiber option comes from Lacks Enterprises.Building on the 2018 model year Demon with many go-faster additions, including a larger supercharger and a larger throttle body, the Demon 170 is called this way after the corn-based fuel's alcohol proof. Leno didn't speak out his mind in regard to the cabin  or maybe left out that footage from the final cut  but does wax lyrical about the way it drives and how it makes him feel.Leno is especially impressed by how light the Demon 170 feels on its feet, partly due to the sticky tires and partly due to how the driving assistance nannies are calibrated. Although it's not as surgical as a Porsche 911 GT3 in the corners, it appears to be more than fine for a vehicle that weighs 4,275 pounds (1,939 kilograms)."The Tesla Plaid can probably pretty much match it, but not with the sense of speed that you get from this," said Jay. "It's really a lot of fun." And  personal opinion here  it's also a proper sendoff for the LX-based Challenger. In its place, Dodge prepares to launch a full-electric Charger coupe on Stellantis' STLA Large platform.
Photo: Burgess Yachts

Photo: Burgess Yachts

Photo: Burgess Yachts

We know it takes a long time to build a superyacht from scratch for someone. Still, it can sometimes take even longer to find a suitable model. The representatives of Laurentia's owner had been searching for more than two years when they finally came across a particular Heesen yacht at the 2016 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. That one wasn't for sale but led to further discussions with the yard until the perfect model became available.It's not rare in this industry for customers to choose nearly-completed builds initially intended for someone else. But in this case, the new owner (reportedly a Mexican millionaire) wanted a complete makeover of the interior, and he wanted it in time for the summer season. In other words, the shipyard had to make some considerable changes in just a few months. And it all went down smoothly, without the owner making a single visit to the yard.This is how Laurentia became infamous for having been completed over Whatsapp messages. Typically, customers who pay hundreds of millions for a bespoke toy are regularly on-site to keep an eye on things. But Laurentia's owner took an unconventional route, even though he was just as involved and enthusiastic as any other yacht owner.Project Alida (the second hull in Heesen's 55-meter series) became Laurentia after just two months of redesign and four months for the actual construction work in 2017. And it paid off. The new yacht was nominated at the prestigious World Superyacht Awards in 2018 for its interior design, proving that the complex transformation was smart.The initial version seemed incompatible with the new owner's belief that yachts should feel more like homes. That translated to an informal, relaxed, and friendly interior style. A Miami-based studio named Radyca was in charge of the style transformation. Despite being a newcomer on the market at the time, it did a great job.Project Alida got new fabrics, different finishings, new furniture, and fresh floors. All of the staterooms were redesigned, and the complex changes included a relocation of the spa pool on the sun deck so that it would make room for an oversized sunbed area, and a tapas bar. The original build was also modernized with an outdoor cinema on the main deck aft and gym equipment for the generous beach club on the lower deck.The customization requested by the new owner gave Laurentia the cool and comfortable look that ensured its success in the luxury charter market. It became available for charter as soon as 2018 and has been a popular choice ever since for those willing to pay no less than $400,000 for one week on board.But it's not all about the fabulous amenities and the friendly look. The Heesen name implies outstanding performance as well. Like all the units in the brand's 55-meter series, Laurentia benefitted from the acclaimed FDHF (Fast Displacement Hull Form) concept developed by Van Oossanen. Compared to yachts with a conventional full-displacement hull, the FDHF designs can handle greater speeds without putting too much pressure on the engines.The FDHF has proven to be highly efficient, not just for superyachts, and has become increasingly popular over the years. Thanks to the Omega Architects' design, and flawless naval architecture by Van Oossanen, Laurentia emerged as a highly-responsive vessel capable of long-distance cruising in ultimate comfort.According to the builder, Laurentia successfully went beyond the contractual speed during sea trials, easily hitting 16.6 knots (19 mph/30.7 kph). The large rudders, the high-pitch propellers, and the advanced steering unit were the main features that made the 180.5 feet beast easy to maneuver even in windy conditions. Plus, at 13 knots (14.9 mph/24 kph), it can cruise for 4,500 nautical miles (8,300 km), which means that Laurentia can easily cross the Atlantic.Today, this Heesen superyacht is just as inviting for its owner and charter customers. It can accommodate up to 12 guests, with an experienced 12-people crew attending to their needs. Whether they're in the mood for relaxing in the spa pool, dining in the open air, exercising, or watching a movie outdoors, Laurentia has it all.From the amazing sun deck unfolding over 102 square meters (1,097 square feet) down to the huge beach club, this elegant superyacht is destined for a closer connection to the outdoors (it was designed explicitly for uninterrupted views throughout).It may be hard to believe that everything was put together in just a few months, without actual visits from the customer, but this is one of the miracles of modern yacht building  even bespoke floating mansions worth $50 million can be obtained in no time.
Photo: No2Rivian

Photo: via No2Rivian

BEV

Photo: via No2Rivian

Photo: Rivian

Photo: Rivian

Photo: via No2Rivian

According to the document, the first intermediaries are the ones who should have represented the inhabitants of Jasper, Morgan, Newton, and Walton counties. Some of these folks are part of the JDA (Joint Development Authority). The association thinks they should have prepared the community for the Georgia governor and Rivian's plans for the area. No2Rivian says these representatives didn't do their jobs. The association is particularly irritated with Alan Verner. JoEllen Artz, the president of the No2Rivian organization, told autoevolution who he is."Alan Verner was president of the Joint Development Authority for over 20 years, and half of the land that the state bought is his family farm. This is considered a conflict of interest to make money because of the position you hold, but the violation is being ignored by the state."The second middlemen are the lawyers who are not dealing with the lawsuits the community filed against the Georgia government and Rivian. Artz also told me more about them."There are three lawsuits tying everything up. The first says that Rivian is not a financially-safe business to be allowed to get a $15-billion bond to build the facility, and the state cannot legally allow Rivian to not pay $700 million in property tax for 25 years. The other two suits are identical, one to our county for failure to enforce a rezoning hearing (from agriculture to heavy industrial), and the other is against the state for saying that they don't have to request a rezoning hearing."The association accuses the government of illegally rezoning the agricultural area where Rivian plans to build its factory for industrial purposes. The way the open letter puts it, there are only two possibilities for the role themaker has in the whole story. Either it was used as a pawn in a broader strategy, or it is an active part of that plan. A chat with RJ Scaringe would help the community understand which role Rivian indeed plays in this plot.The open letter compares the destruction the new factory may cause to what General Sherman and his troops did to Rutledge in their March to the Sea during the Civil War. According to Artz, this destruction is being promoted solely by Georgia state so far."There is no construction, just 'land disturbance.' The state is paying for the land disturbance, but Rivian has to pay for the construction."In other words, it may get worse when Rivian starts the construction job. Artz hopes that Scaringe is able to talk to them before that happens."We would talk with Scaringe about our concerns, starting with our drinking water. We would talk of very serious concerns about lithium and our water and then also about how serious lithium battery fires are. There is a year-round campground for disabled children a mile from the site, and there could be hundreds of children there when a fire breaks out. It would be very difficult to evacuate them."Artz also hopes the Rivian CEO can consider locating the factory in other areas of the state."We would talk about how there are areas in Georgia that have had factories close, so the people need jobs. Our community does not need jobs. There was an excellent location in Georgia for a factory, but not too long ago, Hyundai took it. There are also other areas, but the governor wanted him to choose this land so that his good friend, Alan Verner, could sell his land."Another strategy is to suggest Rivian may have better things to worry about than a new factory."We would also encourage him to forget about Georgia and concentrate on his factory in Illinois. It is supposed to be capable of producing 200,000 vehicles a year, but only produces about 20,000. He needs to figure out how to make that factory work well before expanding."The open letter may encourage Scaringe to chat. It makes it clear that the significant disappointment the residents have is with the government, JDA, and the county administration. They are the ones these folks blame the most for what is happening there. They also challenged Scaringe to prove he cares for the environment and communities, something he often says when anyone brings up the problems with the area's residents.The document says they have no reasons to doubt he is telling the truth apart from the fact that he "chose a very environmentally crucial and sensitive area to destroy." One way to make things clear would be to give them a chance to express their concerns face-to-face.I have contacted Rivian about the open letter and will update this article when and if the BEV maker answers. Even if I don't hear from the BEV maker, the No2Rivian association would be happy to confirm if the open letter reached Scaringe. It may be more productive to sit with them and discuss than to wait for the courts to decide who's right. The association shows no signs it may eventually give up fighting to revert the factory location. In its own words, the "white flag" the open letter represents "is not a peace offering, concession or surrender." The idea is to "simply lower the temperature for a moment so perhaps we can just hear each other out." That sounds quite reasonable, doesn't it?
BEV

Photo: Tesla

SUV

Photo: Tesla

In the early days, Tesla evangelists literally created clubs, most of which are still active today. Any discussion about themaker or Elon Musk was usually restricted to the company's fans, which made it easy for them to bash anyone with a dissonant opinion. Ironically, the issue is that sales expanded. In other words, the discussions now have folks who only want to buy an electric car. Saving the world is not on their list of priorities or, in this case, pretensions. My readers know that no car or automaker will ever have that power.With the Model 3 and Model Y , Tesla opened up to more regular customers than early adopters. Many among them are people who used to own cars like the Camry and decided to check what all the hype about Tesla was about. Some of them may be thrilled with their cars' performance or by saving carbon emissions, but a good chunk is frustrated with the difficulties they are facing. Most of these people just expect average services, quality, and reliability  none of which made the BEV maker stand out. It is their lack that currently drives a lot of attention.In a way, it is a similar phenomenon to what Porsche experienced when it presented the Cayenne . The German carmaker needed a high-volume vehicle to remain in the business, and Wendelin Wiedeking came up with anAmericans loved. The thing is that it also brought a different set of customers to the brand.Friends who worked at Porsche dealerships told me that traditional 911 buyers and Cayenne owners were like oil and water. Those driving a 911 would leave their cars at the dealer, ask for some services on top of those recommended, and pay the bill without questions. Cayenne owners would complain about how little the tires lasted, ask if they could do some services at a later date, and would either swap their Cayennes for new ones when the warranty expired or just not return to the dealerships when that happened. The main difference is that traditional Porsche owners do not defend the company online at all costs.It took a while for regular customers to overtake the number of Tesla apologists in dedicated groups. The former are flooding them with concerns about the range, paint, trim defects, charging costs, and basic doubts. These issues and the arrogant posture of several Tesla fans are getting regular car buyers to say loud and clear that they are not "into this Tesla thing anymore." The surprise is that these manifestations now have plenty of support.It is a pretty different scenario from when it was enough to label Tesla critics as FUDsters, short sellers, Big Oil advocates, or stupid people who had no idea what they were talking about. The groups now identify those they call "fanboys" and just ignore them. In some discussions, they are even the ones who get mocked. Their association with the brand makes some make fun of Tesla as well, which is not helpful in increasing sales.Ironically, several Tesla investors backed up this hypothesis by urging the company to start using marketing and advertising to sell its products. They know that word-of-mouth sales  which Tesla incentivized with its referral program  will no longer be enough to push the charts as much as other measures. Fixing quality control would already have massive repercussions. However, they either gave up asking for that or are just repeating the idea that Tesla is still too young and that it will eventually fix that. To have the chance of getting old, it should have already learned.If Tesla vehicles were not rejected at inspections, the company would not have the extensive inventories it is now trying to clear with heavy discounts. If they did not have to return to Tesla Service Centers shortly after delivery, the BEV maker's service would have a better reputation. That would create a beneficial chain reaction for the brand that only the company and its most fervorous advocates fail to understand.Advertisements would not fix the company's main issues. If they were successful, they would bring even more regular customers to the ranks of people talking about Tesla. With the BEV maker's current state of affairs, we would see more and more negative discussions involving it  precisely what Tesla fans want to avoid as much as possible.In such a scenario, the standard answers Tesla advocates use to dismiss criticism would not work as they always have. It would isolate them, as I have been witnessing lately. Accusing others of not knowing how to use them or wanting to stop "the mission" is far from welcoming. What if these others are just willing to buy good and trustworthy vehicles? Either most Tesla customers will fit that description from now on, or the company will not grow 50% per year, as it said it would.This story is an introduction to the cases that show how Tesla cannot count on its advocates anymore, especially those that always blame other customers for issues the company should solve. I have already selected a few examples. As some of them belong to private groups, I will only report the discussions, not the names of the people involved or the names of their groups. Public conversations are another story. If you happen to stumble upon something that fits what I described, you're more than welcome to share it with my other readers and me.
PHEV

EV

Looking at the North American roster, there are just three nameplates to choose from in the United States. You start at the bottom of the food chain with the $16k and $17k Mirage hatchback and Mirage G4 sedan, followed by the old Outlander Sport at $23k. The quirky $26k Eclipse Cross is tucked between the former and the new Outlander, which can still be had inform, thankfully.The only good thing about Mitsubishi's lineup is that no starting MSRP goes above the $40k threshold if you forget about the existence of the pesky destination and handling fees. No Lancer, no Pajero, no Evolution, no light at the end of the tunnel, no nothing  or at least that is how it feels for many fans these days. Meanwhile, in Europe, the situation is even worse. Over there, the Japanese automaker sank in the mud of discontent to the point of making rebadged Renaults  like the 'all-new' ASX and the upcoming Colt , which are nothing but Captur and Clio models.Naturally, that situation has attracted much attention  both in the real world and across the imaginative realm of digital car content creators. As far as the latter is concerned, it seems there are two sides to the Mitsubishi equation. Some just do not seem to accept the sad fate of the carmaker's legends and  from time to time  just pop out in the CGI open with a fresh Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution XI vision that would probably get welcomed with open arms by diehard aficionados.Others, like the virtual artist better known as Theottle on social media, are a tad more pragmatic and accept the bland fate of badge engineering  albeit with a twist. As such, during his latest behind-the-scenes making-off video (embedded below), the pixel master has resorted to CGI slicing and dicing the rather old e-Evolution Concept for a feisty all-electric Lancer revival. The question was long yet simple: "What if Mitsubishi brings back the (iconic) Lancer nameplate for an electric C-segment hatchback sharing its platform with the Renault Megane E-Tech?"But to hopefully escape the angry lightning bolts of Lancer EVO fans, the CGI expert also resorted to completely changing the exterior of the Frenchwith help from the imagined production version of the e-Evolution prototype. And while it is quirky, indeed, to bring back a concept that's more than half a decade old, at least it is not just a Renault Megane E-Tech with a Mitsubishi badge slapped on it, right?
The peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan will become realistic if the two countries recognize clearly, without ambiguities and pitfalls, each other's territorial integrity and undertake not to ever submit territorial claims to each other, Pashinian told the Armenian parliament.

I now want to reaffirm that Armenia fully recognizes the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan and we expect Azerbaijan to do the same by recognizing the entire territory of the Armenian [Soviet Socialist Republic] as the [modern-day] Republic of Armenia, he said.

Pashinian already vowed such recognition in a joint statement with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, French President Emmanuel Macron and European Union chief Charles Michel issued after their meeting held in Prague last October. The statement upheld a 1991 declaration in which Armenia and other newly independent Soviet republics recognized each others Soviet-era borders.

This was due to be at the heart of an Armenian-Azerbaijani peace treaty promoted by the West. Pashinian publicly backed such a deal ahead of the Prague summit, stoking Armenian opposition claims that he is ready to help Baku regain full control over Nagorno-Karabakh.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov likewise said in December that Pashinian effectively recognized Azerbaijani sovereignty over Karabakh at Prague. Lavrov said the Armenian leader thus all but precluded a different peace deal favored by Moscow. It would indefinitely delay an agreement on Karabakhs status.

An Armenian opposition lawmaker, Artur Khachatrian, challenged Pashinian on Tuesday to clarify his position on Karabakhs future status. The prime minister gave no clear answer, saying only that there needs to be an international mechanism for direct talks between Baku and Karabakhs leadership.

In April 2022, Pashinian sparked angry opposition protests in Yerevan when he signaled readiness to lower the bar on Karabakhs status acceptable to Armenia. He and other Armenian officials also stopped making references to the Karabakh Armenians right to self-determination in their public statements.

Pashinians Civil Contract party pledged to continue championing the principle of self-determination in its 2021 election manifesto.

Artsvik Minasian, another opposition lawmaker, accused the Armenian government of not honoring that pledge and thus calling its legitimacy into question.

Meanwhile, Aliyev said that Armenias leadership now agrees in principle with his position on the Armenian-Azerbaijani peace treaty. Still, he said, Pashinian should go farther and declare that Karabakh is Azerbaijan.

In an interview with Azerbaijani state television aired on Tuesday, Aliyev also renewed his threats of fresh military action against Armenia, saying that Azerbaijan is strengthening its army because it must be ready for any situation.

Aliyev went on to again rule out any internationally mediated talks with Karabakh representatives. Karabakh Armenians should accept Azerbaijani citizenship or leave the territory, he said.

The separatists have to realize that they have two options: either they will live under Azerbaijani rule or leave, added Aliyev.
The 56-year-old Hayrapet Meliksetian worked as a security guard at a waste disposal facility of Armenias largest mining company located in southeastern Syunik province. He was found shot dead on April 12 several kilometers from where the Azerbaijani soldier, Huseyn Akhundov, was caught the following day.

The Office of the Prosecutor-General said that Akhundov committed the murder in a failed attempt to steal the guards car and flee to neighboring Iran. It claimed that the car did not start and Akhundov fled the scene before using the victims mobile phone to record a video in which he bragged about killing Armenians and said we are not traitors of our fatherland.

The video posted on social media was widely circulated by Armenian media outlets shortly after several Syunik residents apprehended Akhundov on a highway near the provincial capital Kapan. The soldier was apparently unarmed during his detention.

Speaking to RFE/RLs Armenian Service earlier on Tuesday, Narek Ghahramanian, a Kapan-born parliamentarian affiliated with the ruling Civil Contract party, said that Akhundov confessed to the murder. Ghahramanian suggested that investigators are looking for his weapon.

The second Azerbaijani serviceman, identified as Akshin Bebirov, was detained on April 12 in a Syunik village located about 100 kilometers northwest of Kapan. According to the Armenian military, he claimed to have crossed the Armenian border with Azerbaijans Nakhichevan exclave together with another soldier believed to be Akhundov.

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian said on April 12 that they deserted their army unit in Nakhichevan because of being subjected to hazing and humiliation by other soldiers.

The Azerbaijani government demanded the immediate release of both servicemen charged with illegally crossing into Armenia. It did not immediately react to the murder charge brought against Akhundov.

Sargis Khandanian, the chairman of the Armenian parliament committee on foreign relations, indicated that given the accusations leveled against them Yerevan does not intend to swap Akhundov and Bebirov for any of at least 33 Armenian soldiers who were taken prisoner during or after the 2020 Karabakh war and remain in Azerbaijani captivity.

Armenia is not planning to make any concessions on this matter, Khandanian told reporters.
18 April 2023 17:30 (UTC+04:00)

Sabina Mammadli Read more

The secret of strong cooperation lies in mutual respect and trust, as well as common goals and interests. When countries prioritize these factors, they can build meaningful and sustainable cooperation that benefits all parties involved. This has always been the case with Azerbaijan and Israel, who throughout the history of bilateral ties have supported each others territorial integrity and proved to be trustworthy partners in various spheres.

The opening of the Azerbaijani embassy in Israels Tel Aviv has been another step in the direction of bilateral partnership. Not long after this historic act, Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen is due to visit Azerbaijans Baku, where he is expected to take part in the next meeting of the Azerbaijan-Israel intergovernmental commission, which will be held on April 19, as well as hold a number of meetings with the country's officials. The minister is accompanied by a business delegation of 20 Israeli companies in the field of cybersecurity, homeland security, water supply, and agriculture, which further indicates that the cooperation between the two countries is limitless.

The trade turnover between Azerbaijan and Israel in January-February 2023 amounted to $334.1 million, which is 26.36 percent more than in the same period last year. Such statistics serve to prove that the high-level cooperation between Azerbaijan and Israel is beneficial for both states.

In a comment to Azernews, Director of Azerbaijan Jewish Media Center Nasimi Abilov talked about the visit of the Israeli FM, as well as the future prospects of cooperation between the two countries.

Noting that Cohens visit coincides with International Holocaust Remembrance Day, Abilov added that it also follows the opening of the Azerbaijani embassy in Israel, during which the foreign minister was invited to visit Baku.

Let us inform you that Eli Cohen is visiting Azerbaijan for the first time as a foreign minister. If we take into account that Israel's relations and its status in the world are vast, then the importance of the visit to Azerbaijan can be noted, the director stated.

Having noted further prospects of cooperation between Israel and Azerbaijan, Abilov stressed that the relations of mutual friendship and cooperation between the two countries are based not only on economic and strategic benefits, but also on traditional historical, and cultural roots. He also added that the political relations between the two countries are also at a high level.

For many years now, Israel has become the main supplier of weapons and high technologies to Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan has received weapons and military equipment worth about 5 billion dollars so far from its ally in the Middle East. Such an agreement brought only a favor to Azerbaijan, he remarked.

Furthermore, the expert stressed that Azerbaijan and Israel have become key regional players for each other, especially by cooperating in the sectors that both countries need most.

The studying and promotion of new ways of economic, business and trade relations are being successfully carried out. Thus, relations between Azerbaijan and Israel are not limited to trade and arms import. Since both countries consider Iran a "regional antagonist", the concept of military cooperation between the two states has deepened. Officials in Tehran view these military ties as a threat to Iran's security. Nevertheless, bilateral relations in all fields will continue at the same pace of development, and this will bring success to both nations at the regional and international levels, he added.

To finalize, Abilov pointed out that both countries need close cooperation with each other from a broad political perspective and to ensure that these links are based not only on mutual interests in trade and security issues but also on long-standing traditions of Jewish-Azerbaijani friendship.

---

Sabina Mammadli is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @SabinaMmdl

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
18 April 2023 15:36 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

Azerbaijan's gas export revenues have increased in recent years, following the the western sanctions on Russian gas, which resulted also the hike of the natural gas price in the world energy market. By that time Azerbaijan's export profit was mostly based on oil and in 2022, for the first time, the share of oil in Azerbaijan's exports declined to 51 percent resulting in less dependency of Azerbaijan on oil. Meanwhile, in order to meet the growing demand in Europe, Azerbaijan doubled the export of natural gas to Europe. However, in 2023, the report of the State Customs Committee (SCC) in the first quarter of this year stated that Azerbaijan's gas export was 2.3 billion dollars, which in comparison with the same period of the last year, this was 46 percent lower in terms of volume, and 32 percent lower in terms of value.

Clarifying the numbers, the expert noted that both the producing company and the Ministry of Energy, including the State Statistics Committee write the meter readings in their monthly reports.

As for the reason for such a contradiction in numbers, Ilham Shaban said that the reason is not much clear however, he added that a similar contradiction in the export of electricity was observed previously.

Despite such contradicting numbers may sometimes cause a confusion in public, Azerbaijani state is true to its promise and I can surely say that Azerbaijan's gas exports to Europe are increasing.

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Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
A video grab shows North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, right, showing his watch to then U.S. President Donald Trump during the second U.S.-North Korea summit in Hanoi, Vietnam, on Feb. 27, 2019. EPA-Yonhap



Nuclear scientist Siegfried Hecker encourages Yoon, Biden to devise fresh approach at April 26 summit to dismantle North Korea's nuclear program



By Kang Hyun-kyung





Siegfried Hecker, professor emeritus at Stanford University and director emeritus at Los Alamos National Laboratory / Courtesy of Siegfried Hecker

In 2019, then U.S. President Donald Trump received bipartisan support, despite coming home empty-handed on the heels of a failed summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in Vietnam's capital.



The rationale of U.S. senators who backed Trump, regardless of their party affiliations, was that sometimes no deal is better than a bad deal to curb North Korea's nuclear ambitions. And this was also true at that time, because the U.S. would have made too many concessions otherwise to strike a deal with North Korea.



But Siegfried Hecker, an internationally renowned expert in plutonium science and nuclear security, questions whether American public opinion in favor of the failed Hanoi summit four years ago helped the U.S. achieve its foreign policy goal to denuclearize the North in a firm and verifiable manner.



He believes the opposite may be true.



If a deal was signed back then between Trump and Kim to freeze the Yongbyon nuclear complex and shut down the Nuclear Weapons Institute (NWI) in return for lifting sanctions imposed on the North, Hecker claims that the U.S. would now have been able to gain insight into "many of the uncertainties of North Korea's nuclear capabilities."



However, due to the diplomatic stalemate that ensued after what he called the missed opportunity, he says North Korea's nuclear program has remained in the dark.



The competition between democracies and autocracies after Russia's invasion of Ukraine has further complicated the denuclearization of North Korea, according to Hecker.



He encouraged South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and U.S. President Joe Biden to "take a fresh look at" North Korea during their summit scheduled to take place in Washington D.C. on April 26.



"Pyongyang has not only greatly increased its nuclear capabilities, but it apparently has also fundamentally shifted its 30-year attempts to reach normalization with Washington in favor of aligning itself with Moscow and Beijing," he said in a recent email interview with The Korea Times.



His remark indicates that the dismantlement of North Korea's nuclear program has become trickier than ever before as the North is poised to shift its focus to bolstering ties with Russia and China from its decades-old pursuit of seeking direct negotiations with the U.S.



Hecker, a professor at Texas A&M University, professor emeritus at Stanford University and director emeritus at Los Alamos National Laboratory, says the Hanoi summit was one of the opportunities, which if managed well, could have resulted in a diplomatic breakthrough in dismantling North Korea's nuclear program.



Unfortunately, however, he says that it became a missed opportunity because of Washington's "short-sighted" policy choices, infighting between doves and hawks, and their failure to dive deeply into North Korea's proposal.



On top of Washington politics, Hecker hinted at a perception gap about denuclearization between Washington and Pyongyang as another challenge that caused the summit to fail.



Kim seemed to have believed his commitment to close the Yongbyon nuclear complex to stop producing future nuclear weapons, while keeping its existing nuclear weapons intact, was sufficient to meet the conditions for denuclearization. The U.S., however, viewed denuclearization as a status that could be achieved only when North Korea gives up all of its existing weapons and drops any plan to build nuclear bombs in the future.



"I understood Kim Jong-un's comments to mean he was prepared to take steps right away to roll back the nuclear weapons program  for example, by shutting down the Yongbyon nuclear complex and by closing the Nuclear Weapons Institute," Hecker said. "However, he would not give up any of the weapons themselves until the end of the diplomatic process because that would leave North Korea too vulnerable."



In the September 6 letter disclosed in Bob Woodward's book, titled "Rage," Kim was quoted as telling Trump that he would be willing to completely shut down the NWI as a meaningful step to prove his seriousness about denuclearization.



In his new book, titled "Hinge Points: An Inside Look at North Korea's Nuclear Program," Hecker disclosed that the North Korean leader elaborated on his strategic policy shift from the nuclear program to the economy during a summit with then South Korean President Moon Jae-in, saying this is what he heard from unidentified "South Koreans who were intimately familiar with the summit."



"He planned to denuclearize and concentrate fully on the economy," the nuclear scientist quoted the South Korean sources as saying. "Kim repeated the offer to dismantle the Yongbyon facilities. He had previously offered to dismantle an engine test stand at the Sohae Satellite Launching Station. Now, he would offer to dismantle the entire launch site because he realized that if they only dismantled the test stand, it would be heavily criticized by the United States."



Kim, however, said that he would not give up the weapons until the end.



Kim's confusing remarks in the two different events show that he was willing to stop producing more nuclear weapons, but he had no intention of dismantling existing nuclear bombs that North Korea currently possessed.





Siegfried Hecker, then senior fellow at Los Alamos National Laboratory, briefs the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on Capitol Hill in Washington on his recent inspection of North Korean nuclear facilities in this 2004 file photo. AP-Yonhap



Hecker revisited what went wrong with the 2019 Hanoi summit held between Trump and Kim in "Hinge Points: An Inside Look at North Korea's Nuclear Program."



He said U.S. officials' limited understanding of nuclear technology and how it works was another challenge that made the U.S. government "waste the opportunity."



He claimed Kim Jong-un's offer to shut down the NWI and its possible impact on the North's nuclear program were not thoroughly reviewed by the U.S. side.



He explained the NWI is North Korea's equivalent of the combined Los Alamos and the Lawrence Livermore national labs in the United States, describing it as the brain center of the North's nuclear program.



"What is so significant about Kim's offer is that shutting down the NWI (like shutting down Los Alamos and Lawrence Livermore labs) means the eventual end of the nuclear weapons program. It is not possible to deploy nuclear weapons without the scientists and engineers from the labs: those who designed them, those who helped to assemble them, and those who oversee their maintenance and disassembly," his book reads.



Despite its significance, Hecker said few U.S. officials seemed to have fully understood the meaning of the complete closure of the NWI.





This satellite image, released by 38 North on Nov. 24, 2021, shows North Korea's Yongbyon nuclear complex, north of Pyongyang. Yonhap
17 April 2023 21:07 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

The Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov had a telephone conversation with Dereck J. Hogan, the Acting Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs, Azernews reports citing MFA.

The parties discussed current issues on the cooperation agenda between Azerbaijan and the USA, and the current situation in the region, including the peace agenda between Azerbaijan and Armenia.

Minister Jeyhun Bayramov mentioned the existence of bilateral and multilateral cooperation between Azerbaijan and the United States in various fields and noted the importance of mutual contact in the development of relations. In the post-conflict period, the current situation in the region brought to attention that the continuous military and political provocations committed by Armenia harmed the peace and construction efforts of Azerbaijan. In this regard, it was reported that Armenia has not yet withdrawn its armed forces from Azerbaijans territory, which is hindering Azerbaijans reintegration efforts of residents of Armenian origin, and that it opposes the proposal to establish a border crossing point in order to prevent misuse of the Lachin road. Despite the non-constructive steps taken by Armenia, it was stated that Azerbaijan is determined to continue efforts in the direction of advancing the peace agenda.

Dereck Hogan said that for the establishment of lasting peace and security in the region, it is important for the normalization process between Azerbaijan and Armenia to be successful, and for the existing issues to be resolved through negotiations. He pointed out that the United States is ready to support the peace process.

During the telephone conversation, opinions were also exchanged on other issues of mutual interest.

---

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18 April 2023 11:09 (UTC+04:00)

Sabina Mammadli Read more

A group of Azerbaijans Combined Arms Army military personnel was sent to Turkiye to participate in the "Heydar Aliyev-2023" joint live-fire tactical drills dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the National Leader Heydar Aliyev, Azernews reports per Defense Ministry.

The ceremony was held on the occasion of the departure of the military personnel and equipment involved in the drills to be held in Kars.

After the performance of Azerbaijans National Anthem, Deputy Commander of the Combined Arms Army, Maj-Gen Rahim Jafarov spoke about the unshakable brotherhood between the two countries and the importance of conducting the joint drills.

Besides, it was noted that the main purpose of the drills is to ensure the interoperability between the troops during the battle, improve management, exchange of experience, and increase the professionalism of the servicemen.

After the speeches, the units involved in the drills left the city of Nakhchivan towards the Sadarak border checkpoint. The units crossing the Umid Bridge over the Araz river carried on in the direction of Kars.

Azerbaijan and Turkiye periodically hold joint drills to improve interaction and communication between their army units.

Military cooperation between Azerbaijan and Turkiye first emerged in 1992, with an agreement signed between the Azerbaijani and Turkish governments on military education and weapon equipment and deals to help strengthen the bond between the two nations.

On June 15, the two countries signed a memorandum of alliance that cemented the existing military, political and economic cooperation.

The Shusha Declaration on Allied Relations that President Ilham Aliyev and his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan signed during the first official visit to Shusha eight months after Azerbaijans victory in the war with Armenia, also focuses on defense cooperation.

---

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18 April 2023 12:06 (UTC+04:00)

Azerbaijani Ombudswoman Sabina Aliyeva appealed to the world community and demanded to take decisive steps to bring Armenia to international legal responsibility for its numerous criminal acts against peaceful Azerbaijanis, including in the Bashlibel massacre.

According to Azernews, today marks the 30th anniversary of the massacre committed in Kalbajar Districts Bashlibel village in April 1993 as a continuation of the genocidal policy carried out by Armenia on the basis of strong hatred against Azerbaijan throughout history.

As a result of this bloody genocide against humanity, the village population, including children, women, disabled people, and the elderly, were subjected to various severe tortures and were mass-murdered, and some were even burned alive. At the same time, there were hostages among the villagers, and there is no information about the fate of those people who are considered missing, the statement noted.

Besides, it was noted that the entire infrastructure of Bashlibel, one of the oldest and largest villages of Kalbajar, including its historical, cultural and religious objects, was completely destroyed during the occupation.

The appeal pointed out that Armenians attacked 62 civilians after discovering their location in a cave, where they found shelter to save their lives during the occupation of Bashlibel village.

The liberation of Kalbajar District from occupation created the foundation for the discovery of the burial place of those people who were mercilessly killed by the Armenian armed forces, and their remains were exhumed and after their identities were determined, they were buried separately, the appeal stressed.

Moreover, the ombudswoman expressed pity over the fact that such numerous war crimes and crimes against humanity, as well as the acts of vandalism committed against the historical and cultural heritage of Azerbaijan, have not yet been given a legal assessment at the international level.

---

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18 April 2023 12:32 (UTC+04:00)

Farida Panahova, head of the British Azerbaijani Community in London, addressed a letter to British Foreign Secretary James Cleverley in connection with the Azerbaijani soldiers captured in Armenia.

Azernews reports with reference to the press service of the State Committee for Diaspora Affairs that the letter clarified the reasons why the soldiers of the Azerbaijani army - Babirov Agshin Gabil oglu and Akhundov Hussein Ahliman oglu were in Armenian captivity, drew attention to inhuman actions against our military personnel. This criminal incident is regarded as a gross violation of international humanitarian laws by Armenia.

It is noted that it is important that international organizations investigate not only this criminal incident, but also acts of violence by Armenia over the past 30 years against the missing 3,890 Azerbaijanis, and give them a proper assessment.

It was once again noted that Armenia does not fulfill its obligations under important international acts, including the Geneva Convention, the conventions against torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.

The head of the community urged the British minister to intervene in this issue: It is important to send a clear message to the world that the UK will not tolerate violations of international law, to state that we stand in solidarity with the government of Azerbaijan, which is making efforts to achieve justice for our two soldiers".

We believe that by protecting human rights and the rule of law, we can turn the planet into a safer and fairer space for all, said Farida Panahova.

---

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18 April 2023 14:20 (UTC+04:00)

Spokesperson for Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry Aykhan Hajizada commemorated the memory of the victims of the Bashlibel massacre, Azernews reports per the official's tweet.

"On this day, we remember all innocent victims of Armenian war crimes & crimes against humanity with grief & sorrow, & demand justice for them," he tweeted.

30 years pass since #Bashlibel tragedy, one of the bloodiest massacres committed by #Armenia against #Azerbaijan|is in Kalbajar region of . On this day, we remember all innocent victims of 's war crimes & crimes against humanity with grief & sorrow, & demand justice for them. pic.twitter.com/YMsNYnXFpH  Aykhan Hajizada (@Aykhanh) April 18, 2023

To recap, on April 3, 1993, the armed units of Armenia attacked Kalbajar District's Bashlibel village. 62 civilians who could not manage to escape before the attack took refuge in a cave in the mountains located about 3 kilometers from Bashlybel. Having plundered the village, the Armenians burned it down but were dissatisfied with the result, as they failed to satisfy their thirst for blood. The invaders went in search of the fleeing villagers, realizing that they would not be able to go far since Kalbajar was already occupied.

On April 18, the hideout was discovered. The Armenians killed 12 people, mostly children, women and the elderly. 14 people were taken hostage. Subsequently, the hostages were released, but as a result of the psychological trauma experienced, most soon died.

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18 April 2023 14:00 (UTC+04:00)

Rena Murshud Read more

The EU will continue to support Azerbaijan to achieve sustainable development in water management. Azerbaijan also aims to significantly reduce gas emissions by 2050, head of the European Union (EU) Delegation to Azerbaijan Peter Michalko said at the school symposium on climate change mitigation and adaptation. At the symposium the EU delegation head said that Azerbaijan is facing the challenges of climate change, especially in the reduction of water resources.

According to Michalko, work continues on a new agreement between the EU and Azerbaijan, it will affect many areas, including the environment and ways to decarbonization.

The official said that the EU prioritizes international cooperation in promoting climate neutral and sustainable development, the transition to an inclusive green circular economy, the conservation and sustainable use of ecosystems and natural resources, and global commons.

"Within the EU4Climate program, which is part of a strong partnership between the EU and the government of Azerbaijan, the European Union supports Azerbaijan in its commitment to update and expand its nationally determined targets to combat climate change", he added

He noted that these commitments are formed in accordance with the Paris Agreement to integrate climate change adaptation actions into the national development plan as well as expressing importance of bringing climate change legislation in line with EU standards.

---

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Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
18 April 2023 14:41 (UTC+04:00)

Azerbaijani Defense Minister Col-Gen Zakir Hasanov left for an official visit to Kazakhstan, Azernews reports.

The minister was invited by his Kazakh counterpart Col-Gen Ruslan Zhaksylykov.

Within the framework of the visit, the ministers plan to discuss the prospects for the development of bilateral cooperation in the military, military-technical, military-educational fields and other issues of mutual interest.

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.

---

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18 April 2023 15:57 (UTC+04:00)

Rena Murshud Read more

The presentation of the scientific monograph "Heydar Aliyev - a view from Russia" took place at the Novosibirsk State University of Economics and Management (NSUEU).

According to Azernews, the monograph was published with the support of the Consulate General of Azerbaijan in Yekaterinburg. The authors are Professor of the Novosibirsk State Technical University Mikhail Chernyakov and Associate Professor of the Novosibirsk State University of Economics and Management Kamal Akberov, scientific editor - head of the department of the Institute of History of the National Academy of Sciences of Azerbaijan (ANAS), Candidate of Historical Sciences Jabi Bakhramov.

The authors noted that the monograph "Heydar Aliyev - a view from Russia" is the first scientific study of the legacy of Heydar Aliyev in Russia. They stressed that by studying the documents related to the national leader, they rediscovered this person for themselves, noting that Heydar Aliyev always proceeded from the interests of his people, and thus managed to unite thousands of people around him, became the leader of his people.

Opening the event, member of the editorial board of the book, Acting Consul General of Azerbaijan in Yekaterinburg Shohrat Mustafayev spoke about the exceptional role of national leader Heydar Aliyev in the history of the former USSR and Azerbaijan. Expressing gratitude to all those who assisted in the publication of the book, the diplomat noted that it reflected the most important milestones in the life and political past of national leader Heydar Aliyev.

NSUEM Vice-Rector Vladimir Romashin stressed that it would be useful for university students to study the legacy of Heydar Aliyev.

It was the wise decisions of Heydar Aliyev that made it possible to attract the first foreign investments to Azerbaijan, the economy of the republic reached a new level, he said, adding that Heydar Aliyev is a person who went down in history.

Deputy Minister of Education of the Novosibirsk region Svetlana Korolkova noted that Heydar Aliyev was the leader of all Azerbaijanis. Wherever he was, Aliyev found an opportunity to meet with representatives of the Azerbaijani diaspora. He always highly appreciated the feasible contribution that the Azerbaijanis of the world make to the development of their homeland. The life and work of Heydar Aliyev are a real school for young people.

Mais Mammadov, Deputy Chairman of the Legislative Assembly of the Novosibirsk Region, brought to the attention of those present that the presentation dedicated to the study of the heritage of the outstanding political figure Heydar Aliyev was of great importance.

We have witnessed interest in the personality of Heydar Aliyev among the students of NSUE, one of the ten best universities in Russia. This is certainly an important factor. The centenary of Heydar Aliyev is widely celebrated not only in Azerbaijan, but all over the world, including Russia. We, Azerbaijanis living in Russia, also contribute to the study and popularization of Heydar Aliyev's philosophy, M. Mammadov said.

Anna Lopareva, head of the Department for Nationalities Affairs and Interaction with Religious Organizations of the Novosibirsk Region, in turn, said that Azerbaijanis living in Novosibirsk are distinguished by exemplary behavior and this is an indicator of their upbringing in the right environment, respect for their history and traditions. Of course, the merits of Heydar Aliyev in the formation of Azerbaijani thinking and ideas are undeniable, the head of the department added.

At the end of the event, the participants were given copies of the book signed by the authors, and a film dedicated to national leader Heydar Aliyev was shown.

---

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18 April 2023 16:16 (UTC+04:00)

The restoration of Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur is our top priority, and most of my visits to the regions are to those specific regions, said President Ilham Aliyev as he was interviewed by the Azerbaijan Television in the Salyan district.

Emphasizing that the large-scale restoration and reconstruction work in Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur is going according to plan, the head of state said: The work done in Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur shows again that we, the owners of these territories, have returned to our ancestral lands. Over 30 years, Armenia devastated these lands, did not leave a single stone unturned, was engaged in looting and robbery, and was engaged in barbarism. We, the owners of these lands, have come to build and create. Therefore, as soon as the war ended, work was started immediately.

Currently, former IDPs live in two settlements  in the villages of Aghali and Talish. We see the future face of Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur as a whole in the example of these villages  prosperous cities, prosperous villages, infrastructure created on the basis of smart management principles. So all this is obvious. Let me say again that these two projects show the entire population of Azerbaijan and the whole world what the future face of Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur will be like, President Ilham Aliyev noted.

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18 April 2023 20:30 (UTC+04:00)

Rena Murshud Read more

A country that is itself an aggressor should not be expected to establish peace between the two countries, Mikhail Zernov, a director of the branch of the International Fund for Cooperation and Partnership of the countries of the Black Sea and Caspian Sea, told in a comment for Azernews, with regard to the escalated tensions between Azerbaijan and Armenia in connection with recent Armenian provocations.

As is known, a telephone conversation took place between Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov and Derek Hogan, an Acting Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs, during which the sides have discussed peace agenda between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

At a telephone conversation, Azerbaijan's Bayramov has noted the current situation in the region in the post-conflict period, the ongoing military-political provocations committed by Armenia are detrimental to the peaceful and creative efforts of Azerbaijan.

Derek Hogan, in his standard response, was just sufficient to emphasize the importance of peace between the two sides. Hogan, who stated that he will not spare the support of the United States in this matter, tried to console the Azerbaijani side. However, the question arises as to how the United States can act as a guarantor of peace...

Can the United States really defend the violated rights of Babirov Agshin and Akhundov Huseyn, who were unjustly beaten and imprisoned by Armenia?

According to Mikhail Zernov, the current situation at the border, and in the region is unstable: "The ethno-political and territorial causes of the conflict have deep historical roots, manifestations of such aggression stem from these contradictions. I think tensions in the region is quite tangible."

As for the support of the United States in the return of Azerbaijani soldiers, the expert emphasized that the United States will only try to increase its pressure on both sides in the region.

To establish peace, a negotiation process is needed with the participation of the CIS countries and, of course, Russia, Zernov said as he touched on the return of the Azerbaijani soldiers.

Expert also underlined Russia's stance in ending the conflict in the region, saying that Kremlin always respects Azerbaijan's sovereignty.

"Russia has already recognized the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan. It is necessary to stop the information war by both sides of the conflict, to intensify the negotiation process," he concluded.

---

Follow Rena Murshud on Twitter: @RenaTagiyeva

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By Kim Ae-ran



Since the year 2000, on the second Sunday after Easter, we celebrate Divine Mercy Sunday. On April 30, 2000, Pope John Paul II proclaimed Divine Mercy Sunday and canonized Sister Maria Faustina Kowalska (1905-38).



Then, what is meant by celebrating the Divine Mercy of God and living devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus in our daily lives?



First of all, I think it means to resemble the heart of Jesus. In other words, it means to live with endless love, mercy, perseverance and compassion. Second, it means to pray and embrace everything like a mother who is constantly praying and working hard for the family, while accepting various situations with goodwill and generosity. Third, it means to put into practice the glad tidings of the Good News day in and day out.



Though not explicit, the devotion to the Sacred Heart and to Divine Mercy dates back to the prophets in the Old Testament. The prophets such as Hosea, Isaiah, Ezekiel and Jeremiah already mentioned the merciful, faithful and compassionate love of God. "I will give them a heart of flesh." (Ezekiel 11:19).



In the New Testament, the sacrificing love of Jesus is presented: "If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water." (John 7:37-38). "One of the soldiers pierced his side with a spear, and at once there came out blood and water." (John 19:34).



From the early church, people began to meditate on the Sacred Heart of Jesus pierced with a spear. Then, Church Fathers such as Irenaeus, Hippolytus and Cyprianus said that "the Sacred Heart of Jesus is spring of love and grace. The Sacred Heart is the endless grace."



In the early Middle Ages, the devotion to the Sacred Heart was developed as personal devotion, but in the late Middle Ages, it was developed among religious people like Birgitta, Anselm, Bernardus, Bonaventura, Matilda, Albert the Great, Gertrudis, Francis, Catherine of Siena etc.



Then, Joannes Eudes (1601-80) and Margarita Maria Alacoque (1647-90) deepened the devotion to the Sacred Heart and applied it to the Liturgy, Exposition (Holy Hour) and the Office of the Hours.



Many popes like Clement XIII, Pius IX, Leo XIII, Pius X, Pius XI, Pius 11, Pius XII, John XXIII, Paul VI and John Paul II regarded the devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus as the synthesis of every devotion and the perfect standard for living.



In 1931, Sister Faustina, an uneducated Polish nun of the Congregation of the Sisters of Our Lady of Mercy, became an apostle of mercy with her resolute refrain "Jesus, I trust in you."



The devotion to Divine Mercy includes the message of Christ's mercy, the recitation of the Divine Mercy chaplet, novena, spreading the image of Jesus of Divine Mercy, celebrating the feast of Divine Mercy, Holy Hour of great mercy, reflections and meditation on Divine Mercy, and a day of forgiveness and reconciliation for all souls.



We celebrated the extraordinary year of mercy throughout the world in 2016 because what we needed most was mercy. Now, in 2023, more than ever, we still need Divine Mercy most desperately. Especially in the continuing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, in the climate crisis, among unexpected diseases and various natural disasters, we are in dire need of endless mercy and compassion. "Lord, have mercy on us!"





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.










18 April 2023 18:00 (UTC+04:00)

Sabina Mammadli Read more

The peaceful protest of the Azerbaijani eco-activists and youth representatives on the Lachin-Khankandi road against Armenia's illicit exploitation of mineral resources continues back-to-back for the 128th day, Azernews reports.

Thirty-nine vehicles of Russian peacekeepers have driven along the road unhindered. The vehicles were moving from Khankandi in the Lachin direction. Among the vehicles, there were passenger cars, trucks, fuel trucks, and cars with personnel. In addition, military buses were carrying civilians.

Recall that following the talks with the Russian peacekeepers' command on December 3 and 7, 2022, a group of experts from the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources, the State Property Service under the Ministry of Economy, and AzerGold CJSC was going to begin preliminary monitoring of the illicit mineral resource exploitation, as well as emerging environmental implications on Azerbaijani lands, where the Russian peacekeepers are temporarily deployed, on December 10, 2022.

The expert team was expected to inspect the environmental condition at the Gizilbulagh gold deposit and the Damirli copper-molybdenum deposit, monitor various areas, organize cadastral property records, assess potential risks and threats to the environment, as well as underground and surface water sources.

However, the expert group, accompanied by Russian peacekeepers, faced provocations when arriving at the monitoring area. The planned initial inspection and monitoring did not take place due to the fact that the Russian peacekeepers not only did create necessary conditions but also prevented the entire process from carrying on.

--

Sabina Mammadli is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @SabinaMmdl

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
18 April 2023 08:02 (UTC+04:00)

Spains prime minister on Sunday apologized to victims for a loophole in a landmark law aimed at fighting sexual violence that has allowed some convicted offenders to reduce their sentences.

The law, dubbed Only yes means yes, came into effect in October, reforming the criminal code in a bid to define all non-consensual sex as rape.

But since then, at least 104 offenders have been released and another 978 have seen their sentences reduced, according to latest government figures.

In an interview published on Sunday in the El Correo newspaper, Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said that I ask victims for forgiveness for these undesired effects.

I dont think any deputy, including those parliamentary groups who voted against the only yes means yes law is okay to lower sentences of sexual aggressors, he was quoted as saying. Thats why I am asking for forgiveness.

Under the law, the lesser charge of sexual abuse was dropped and all violations were grouped as sexual assault, which carried stiffer penalties.

The law simultaneously reduced the minimum and the maximum punishment for certain types of sexual crimes, and hundreds have applied to have their sentences revised.

In Spain, sentences can be modified retroactively if a change in the penal code benefits the convicted.

As a result, many of those convicted have seen their sentences reduced, provoking outrage in the country.

The left-wing government has introduced modifications designed to close the loophole, which parliament is currently examining.

We will put a solution on the table to resolve these problems, Sanchez said.

Spain is due to hold municipal and regional elections at the end of May and legislative polls at the end of the year.

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18 April 2023 12:59 (UTC+04:00)

By News Centre

Istanbul Finance Center (IFC), which will operate in the field of economy and finance, was opened in Istanbul. Expressing that IFC is an opportunity for Turkiye, experts say that the new center will also contribute to attracting domestic investors to the financial sector.

Istanbul Finance Center banks phase, which was completed under the ownership of the Turkiye Wealth Fund and under the coordination of the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization, and Climate, was put into service. Economist Assoc. Dr. Batuhan Tufaner said, This will increase employment in the financial sector. It will also contribute to attracting domestic investors to the financial sector.

Confidence is important for foreign investors

Emphasizing that London and New York are among the largest financial centers in the world, Assoc. Dr. Batuhan Tufaner said, For foreign investors to be attracted to the Istanbul Financial Center, they must compete with these big financial centers in the world. In order for this to happen, several criteria must be met. The first thing that foreign financial institutions and investors pay attention to when entering a country is the element of trust. However, the country's macroeconomic indicators are also extremely important in terms of financial markets. Foreign investments are an extremely important factor for the growth of developing countries like Turkiye. If these two criteria are met, IFC will be an opportunity for the Turkish economy.

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18 April 2023 22:18 (UTC+04:00)

The EU Energy platform, which has been created for joint gas purchases, will be available for placing demand on April 25.

The purchases will be possible via the AggregateEU service. This requires that interested companies from EU Member States and the Contracting Parties of the Energy Community finalize their registration with the service provider, PRISMA and subscribe to the AggregateEU service by 20 April.

The submitted demand will subsequently be aggregated and ultimately matched with sellers bids through a tender. Each tendering round  every two months over the next 12-month period  will last approximately two weeks. Both the type of delivery, i.e. liquefied natural gas (LNG) or national balancing point and the date should be indicated by a company when placing its gas demand.

In order to secure the EU's energy supply at affordable prices in the current geopolitical context and to phase out dependency on Russian gas, the European Commission has established with the Member States an EU Platform for the common purchase of gas, LNG and hydrogen.

It is a voluntary coordination mechanism, bringing together the Commission and the Member States, supporting the purchase of gas and hydrogen for the Union, by making optimal use of the collective political and market weight of the EU.

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By Simon Hutagalung



Considering the rising geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific region, South Korea and Indonesia are looking forward to closer economic and political cooperation as they commemorate their 50th diplomatic anniversary. The 50th anniversary of their union was celebrated virtually on Jan. 26. Retno Marsudi, the foreign minister of Indonesia, described the two countries as "unique strategic partners" whose trade has grown rapidly in recent years. The two countries broke their previous trade record in 2022 with $20.57 billion.



In 2017, the presidents of South Korea and Indonesia, Moon Jae-in and Joko Widodo, decided to transform their existing strategic partnership into a "special strategic partnership" with a focus on four key areas: people-to-people exchanges; defense; international relations, regional and global cooperation; and the growth of infrastructure and trade. Both nations have launched a number of plans and agreements over the past five years in an effort to enhance integration and promote closer cooperation.



A free trade pact known as the Indonesia-Korea Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IK CEPA) was negotiated in 2019 to strengthen their economic partnership. South Korea and Indonesia commemorated the 50th year of diplomatic relations on Jan. 1, 2023. The agreement will remove import tariffs on 95.5 percent of Indonesian exports to South Korea and 93 percent of South Korean exports to Indonesia, exceeding the tariff reductions outlined in the ASEAN-Korea Free Trade Agreement.



The bilateral agreement will significantly increase market access because it will partially remove tariffs on goods like steel, cars, and auto parts as well as agricultural and fishery goods. The negotiation process has resulted in closer ties between the two nations, with Indonesia now being South Korea's second-favorite ASEAN nation for foreign direct investment (FDI). Because of South Korea's investments in Indonesia, Nusantara in New Kalimantan has grown by about $6.37 billion and about 58,000 new jobs have been created as a result.



Indonesia and South Korea share the same values as the G20 and MIKTA members in terms of democracy, human rights, a free market, and the freedom to travel without interference. They have similar views on regional and global dynamics as well. The ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific and South Korea's Strategy for a Free, Peaceful, and Prosperous Indo-Pacific Region are the two countries' respective Indo-Pacific strategies that they are using to carefully navigate the escalating rivalry between China and the United States in the Indo-Pacific.



The crisis in Myanmar, China's assertiveness in the South China Sea and North Korea's nuclear threats are the three key dynamics that both countries must focus on in order to create peace and stability in the region. With South Korea's strong support for Indonesia's ASEAN presidency in 2023, if both parties ask for a mediator, the North Korean nuclear threat could be diminished significantly. As a signatory to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), Indonesia would also try to dissuade South Korea from acquiring nuclear weapons, which could endanger the Korean Peninsula and the entire region.



South Korea, on the other hand, should use its diplomatic abilities to resolve the conflict between its two major trading partners due to the growing rift between Indonesia and China in the North Natuna Sea and the growing assertiveness of China. South Korea has stayed out of the South China Sea conflict in order to safeguard its supply lines and gain economic advantages. However, it must not ignore the widening gap in the area.



In Myanmar, the military has extended the state of emergency for an additional six months, and both Indonesia and South Korea must cooperate to help the region resolve the chaos there.



In conclusion, the 50-year diplomatic relationship between Indonesia and South Korea is flourishing, despite the rising geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific region. Finally, in the Korean Peninsula crisis, Indonesia has the potential to significantly lessen the North Korean nuclear threat as a mediator because it has good diplomatic relations with South Korea and North Korea.





Simon Hutagalung is a graduate of the City University of New York and received his master's degree in political science and comparative politics.




Hiking Cape Lookout Trail on N. Oregon Coast Yields Soaring Views

Published 04/12/23 at 4:42 AM

By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff

(Oceanside, Oregon)  One majestic headland, a series of incredible views, three engaging trails along with a wondrous canopy of thick forest. Oh yeah, there are some real surprises along the way. (View from above at Cape Lookout, Oregon Coast Beach Connection)

Expect the unexpected along Cape Lookout, the north Oregon coast headland that juts out in rugged majesty.



This grand headland is packed full of incredible views, a wondrous forest overhead and numerous surprises - plus there are three trails to enjoy. But Cape Lookout is huge  enormous. There's no way you can see it all, actually, but hiking Cape Lookout's trails is a good start.

There are three such trails atop often-misty Cape Lookout: the Cape Trail, the South Trail and the North Trail. There's also a fourth, smaller trail at the main Cape Lookout State Park area called the Nature Trail.



View from above at Cape Lookout, Oregon Coast Beach Connection

The Cape Trail makes a five-mile there-and-back trek along one side of the cape, winding up at the tip of this lofty outcropping where, if the weather permits, you can catch sight of Cascade Head and Cape Foulweather - some 40 miles to the south. To the north, you can even see Tillamook Head - about 42 miles to the north. It's primarily an easy trek with very little elevation gain. But there are enough uphill stretches to induce heavy breathing in even the most hardy.

It's also known for being pretty muddy a lot of the time, so Oregon coast experts say you should bring sturdy hiking shoes and maybe walking poles.

About a half mile down the Cape Trail - at one of the first railed lookout spots you encounter - there's the Crash Sight Memorial, where a World War II B-17 bomber slammed into the headland in 1942.

The aircraft was based out of Pendleton, Oregon and was on maneuvers when, due to fog, it crashed into Cape Lookout and cut a swath through the headland 50 ft. wide and 500 ft. long. All but one of the 11-man crew were killed in the crash. He was found two days later and eventually recovered. The plane pretty much disintegrated upon impact, and all its pieces have either been eaten by the forest or been taken by souvenir hunters in the last 70 years. See the full story: What Really Happened with the Crashed B-17 Bomber on N. Oregon Coast's Cape Lookout

The South Trail veers off to the left of the Cape Trail, taking you down to a hidden cove and a secluded, very sandy beach - eventually connecting to the Sand Beach campground area about four miles to the south. This is no easy trek, however. It's a zigzagging plod downward through two miles of trail before you hit the beach, so you can assume the hike back up will be a gnarly one.

The North Trail leads you down to Cape Lookout State Park and the picnic areas. The trail moves downhill about 2 miles, making it a fairly easy hike. Coming back from the state park to the upper trailhead is all uphill, however, and a much more strenuous safari.





Keep in mind, except at the absolute driest times of the year, these paths often contain spots which are extremely muddy and damp. After all, they essentially plod through a rain forest. There's also quite a bit of wind up here on top of this lofty headland, even on a day where it seems like there's little wind on the beaches. So be advised of the weather and wind conditions before you go.

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It's International Dark Sky Week Around Oregon, the Coast: Time to Stargaze Like Crazy

Published 04/15/23 at 1:22 AM

By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff





(Oregon Coast)  This week, tourism officials want you to celebrate International Dark Sky Week 2023 in Oregon, and that includes the coast. It runs Saturday, April 15th to Saturday, April 22nd. (Bandon at night, courtesy Manuela Durson - see Manuela Durson Fine Arts for more)

Looking up at night is something you can do any time of the year, especially if there are no clouds. This internationally-celebrated week is there to push the message even further: look up this week. Whether you're a visitor or a townie in your own town, International Dark Sky Week (IDSW) is a prime moment to remind you of the heavenly objects above. You'll never know what you'll see (check out the wild fireball seen just recently by Oregon Coast Beach Connection Spectacular Green Fireball Lights Up Oregon Valley Through Washington Coast).

Those touting the star-studded celebration include astronomy expert Jim Todd with Portland's OMSI and Travel Oregon.

Travel Oregon is reminding visitors that the spring and summer months are optimal times to stargaze and observe celestial bodies, the agency said in a press release. Visitors to the state are invited to participate in star-focused events and activities.

Those include regular astronomy events put on by OMSI and the Rose City Astronomers in northwest Oregon, including the OMSI Star Parties held once a month from June through September at both Rooster Rock State Park and L.L. Stub Stewart State Park in the Oregon Coast Range.

Washington Coast Weather - Oregon Coast Weather

Oregon's outback country of eastern Oregon and central Oregon are especially conducive to star gazing. In fact, Travel Oregon said that Prineville Reservoir State Park  about a 50-mile drive northeast of Bend  became Oregons first state park to earn certification as an International Dark Sky Park in May 2021. It joined Sunriver Resort as the only other International Dark Sky Place in Oregon and is now one of fewer than 200 such places around the world.

Much of the reason behind IDSW is to address light pollution, which is worsening around the globe quickly.

Then there's always the Oregon coast. While not as clear as often as those other areas of the state  when skies do clear up it's a stunning show. The Milky Way emerges in full form, with its thick belt of stars and outer space haze stretching across the sky. Meanwhile, there's that always-engaging presence of the surf nearby and that soothing noise of ocean waves.

For any trip around Oregon to check out the skies, Travel Oregon says: You may want to bring a camera and tripod, telescope and a paper map and download an app for stargazing.

Indeed, high vantage points along the coastline provide some extra amazing sights. For one, they're often above much of the ocean mist that's directly above beaches. Oregon Coast Beach Connection recommends Neahkahnie Mountain above Manzanita especially. For some reason  and perhaps it's just dumb luck  some report seeing a lot of random shooting stars atop the atmospheric viewpoint.

There's a major meteor shower that peaks soon this month, see Three Meteor Showers on Oregon coast [April is Stellar Above Oregon Coast / Washington Coast - Three Meteor Showers ]. And later this year an awe-inspiring solar eclipse will dazzle the region, but especially the south Oregon coast. Big Eclipses Coming to Oregon / Washington Coast



Cape Foulweather at night, Oregon Coast Beach Connection

Other high vantage points perfect at night are those with parking lots directly looking out over the surf. Don't head down trails at night to look for viewpoints along the way, such as in the Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor. Lofty parking areas with viewpoints you will want to check out at night: Cape Blanco, Face Rock, Cape Arago, the unmarked gravel pullout just a mile or two south of Cape Perpetua, the overlooks near Heceta Head, Otter Rock near Depoe Bay, Cape Foulweather, the tiny park next to Coho Oceanfront Lodge in Lincoln City, Anderson's Viewpoint near Oceanside, and the Silver Point overlooks just south of Cannon Beach.

All these are excellent for viewing, although being quite high up they may get windier than beaches below. You can get excellent night photographs from the beaches as well. You might also want to check the wet sand for glowing sand or the photographing the waves for glowing waves. The cause is bioluminescent phytoplankton.

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Striking Tufted Puffins Returning to Oregon Coast; Cannon Beach Event Welcomes Them

Published 04/11/23 at 02:42 AM

By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff

(Cannon Beach, Oregon)  Soon the cute lil' ones will be in various places along the coastline. (Photo Seaside Aquarium)

Right about now, every April, the elegant and colorful tufted puffin makes its return to the Oregon coast, showing up at a few places along these 362 miles of shoreline. Bandon, the giant offshore rocks at Oceanside, and near Coos Bay are the hosts to the inimitable bird's presences, as they set up nests to give birth and raise their hatchlings, taking off about August.

In fact, there's a small bulletin from Cannon Beach they have been seen already, but not much in the way of fanfare.

At Cannon Beach's Haystack Rock, they take up their most their most visible presence  the one nesting spot on the Oregon coast that's closest to the general public.

Every year, Cannon Beach hosts a special celebration of their most beautiful of summer visitors, with the welcome back puffins event this year coming up on April 22 and 23. Both days are part of the continuing Earth Day celebrations in town that go through late April.

Haystack Rock Awareness Program (HRAP) puts on the two-day happening, running from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. Both days are free and they're about all things tufted puffin. You'll find interpretive stations, help with spotting scopes so you can get a close look at them, art stations and presentations that are held live and streaming.

This event takes place rain or shine, so please dress accordingly, HRAP said.

The schedule includes:

Saturday, April 22

From 8: am to 11 am, Haystack Rock itself is host to interpretive stations, the bird scope station, and an art table.

At 9:30 am: How to Spot a Puffin (Facebook/Instagram Live).

10 am brings the Puffin Predator Game (Facebook/Instagram Live).

Finally at 10:30 am, there's Puffin Trivia (Facebook/Instagram Live).

Sunday, April 23, the schedule is just about the same.

8:00 am  11:00 am: Interpretive Stations, Bird Scope Station, and Art Table

9:30 am: How to Spot a Puffin (Facebook/Instagram Live)

10:00 am: Puffin Predator Game (Facebook/Instagram Live)

10:30 am: Puffin Trivia (Facebook/Instagram Live)

There has been a brief statement from HRAP that puffins have been spotted, with no other information, so it's possible you'll start to see them farther south.

Coos Bay's Simpson's Reef down on the southern Oregon coast is the most visible spot there, but Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) reports they can also be spotted at times at Coquille Point, but more prominently in one truly famous spot at Bandon.



Photo Manuela Durson - see Manuela Durson Fine Arts for more

From May to August, tufted puffins nest on islands at Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach and Face Rock in Bandon. Remember to bring binoculars or a spotting scope to see them, ODFW said. A great time to check out the coast for offshore pelagic seabirds is after a large storm.

In Oceanside, in Tillamook County, they can be seen on Three Arch Rocks, but you'll really need zoom optics to catch sight of them.

However, even at famed Haystack Rock you'll need optics to see them, and that's what HRAP is there doing. See their schedule at the rock www.haystackrockawareness.com.

For the event, see that website or 503-436-8079 or email hrap@ci.cannon-beach.or.us for more information.

The sad thing about tufted puffins in this state is that their population is quickly declining. According to national experts, the Oregon coast has historically had about 5,000 in past decades, but since the '90s their numbers have dropped to a few hundred. MORE PUFFIN PHOTOS BELOW

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Archived Results for Tuesday, April 18th, 2023

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It is located on private property.

It is not during school hours.

No students are present for curricular or extracurricular activities at the time.

The person in control of the property has not posted a "no guns allowed" sign.

This post appears here courtesy of the Carolina Journal . The author of this post is Alex Baltzegar On Tuesday, the North Carolina Senate voted to override Governor Roy Cooper's first veto of the new legislative biennium by a vote of 30-19.Cooper vetoed Senate Bill 41 (S.B. 41) last week, his first veto since the new members took office in January who were elected in the 2022 midterms.Voters limited Cooper's veto power in the 2022 election. North Carolinians sent a Republican supermajority to the state Senate, and a near Republican supermajority plus several moderate Democrats to the state House.Sen. Danny Britt, R-Robeson, is the primary sponsor of the bill.said Britt.Sen. Sydney Batch, D-Wake, spoke against the bill, followed by Sen. Dan Blue, D-Wake. Both mentioned the Nashville shooting in their comments.Batch has concerns over the bill because she was the victim of cyberstalking. The perpetrator of the crimes received a 144-month sentence but is getting out early, according to Batch.Blue, the Senate minority leader, said the legislature was helping lives with Medicaid expansion, but now the legislature is hurting lives with this bill. Blue said gun violence deaths are the leading cause of death among children now.The first component of Senate Bill 41 (S.B. 41) eliminates a barrier regarding where and when guns can be legally carried.In most North Carolina churches and places of religious worship, the congregations can decide whether firearms are allowed on their private property and what security measures they will have in place to protect their congregations. However, if a church or other place of religious worship is also the site of a private school, then that option is not available to the congregation.S.B. 41 closes that loophole so a person who is legally registered to carry a concealed handgun can do so on the property of a church or other place of religious worship provided that:The second part of the bill repeals North Carolina's Jim Crow-era pistol purchase permit law.After the Civil War, North Carolina's Democratic-controlled legislature enacted a permit system designed with theaccording to The North Carolina Law Review.Now, a century later, the report finds thatfor pistol permits at the Wake County Sheriff's Office.North Carolina is the only state in the South that has kept this law. Federal law already requires background checks for pistols purchased through licensed dealers.The last component of the bill creates a safe storage initiative using state funds through the Department of Public Safety.Cooper put out a statement today on Twitter, accusing Republicans of ill intent.Cooper's statement has already received heavy criticism and accusations of using a tragedy for political gain.In the House, a vote to override Cooper's veto will require at least one Democrat to maintain their support of the bill. Reps. Michael Wray, D-Northampton, Marvin Lucas, D-Cumberland, and Shelly Willingham, D-Edgecombe, voted in favor of S.B. 41 to send it to Cooper's desk.At least one of them will need to maintain their support of the bill. Rep. Shelly Willingham has indicated that if he votes for a bill, he will maintain his support regardless of whether Cooper vetoes.Willingham told The Assembly that he would vote to override Cooper's veto on any bill that he's already supported.Willingham said.The House has indicated they may hold an override vote this week. If the House successfully overrides, the bill will become law.
Early in the introductory college economics course, instructors talk about the Law of Diminishing Returns. An illustration: A farmer has a 100-acre field on which he wants to harvest wheat. If he does all the work himself, he can get 5,000 bushels of grain. With a second worker helping him, he can get 8,000 bushels, and with two helpers, 9,000. As more workers are added, output rises, but by sharply diminishing amounts.Another example: The first ice cream cone a consumer eats adds a lot of pleasure (what economists call), but if the consumer is forced to eat lots of them, by the sixth or seventh cone the consumer may actually be uncomfortable from consuming too much of a good thing.Like most things in life, higher education is subject to the Law of Diminishing Returns. Unfortunately, academics often ignore it, which leads to a massive misallocation of resources as government policy pushes us past the point of diminishing returns with college attendance.Let's start with the most fundamental question: How long should a student go to college in order to be certified as havingor as having had a learning achievement justifying granting a bachelor's degree? At America's first university, Harvard, and nearly all others, the answer typically is four years, with ain academia (unlike for the rest of humankind) defined as roughly 32 weeks of instruction. (The other 20 weeks in the calendar year were originally devoted to helping plant and harvest crops on the family farm.)Yet at Britain's first university, Oxford, a bachelor's degree is typically awarded after three years of even more abbreviated (24 weeks of instruction) annual terms.Why did it take Thomas Jefferson, a formidable intellect and prodigious bibliophile, only two years to graduate from the College of William and Mary, when our most recent presidents, with far lesser reputations for erudition, took twice as long to earn their degrees?During a traditional liberal-arts education (which, increasingly, is being shunned in favor of more vocational-type training), students take foundational courses in their freshman and sophomore years, perhaps developing a good familiarity with literary titans and even mastering the rudiments of a foreign language or solidifying their knowledge of basic science and math. Students usually also gain at least a core understanding of the subject of theirThe junior and senior years are then devoted to deeper study of the major and the completion of a variety of electives.All of that may be enlightening, but at some point, diminishing returns set in.Using my subject of economics as an example, the critically important concepts are introduced in the first course or two: the importance of scarcity and opportunity costs, how market prices and competition help allocate resources efficiently, how and why output varies over time, and so forth. In the third and fourth year, students take specialized courses in relatively narrow areas of economics: money and banking, public finance, game theory, international trade issues, labor economics, statistics, and econometrics.Rarely do graduating students use much of the knowledge gained in these latter classes extensively in the postgraduate world-with the exception being some students who go on to get advanced economics degrees.On the basis of six decades of teaching, I would say that probably 60 percent of the important economic insights for the average student are learned in the first Principles of Economics survey course. The next 10 courses provide the other 40 percent. The Law of Diminishing Returns is at work here, and I think the same applies to most other academic disciplines.Nevertheless, the cost to the student of college remains roughly the same in the senior year as it was in the first year of study. But the educational benefits sharply decline. Many students might want to leave after, say, three years, but the monetaryof having a diploma is substantial. Most employers are dazzled by the degree itself, not the student's useful knowledge. If degree-completion were shortened to the European three-year standard, student costs would decline about 25 percent, and student borrowing to finance college would fall dramatically.So why doesn't it happen?For one thing, money: Colleges want four years or even more of tuition fees per student, not just three years. For another, faculty want to teach relatively esoteric, low-demand advanced courses that seniors might feel compelled to take rather than packed courses with freshmen or sophomores.Moreover, the colleges control the accrediting organizations that help enforce the four-year graduation standard. A school wanting to switch to a three-year degree would likely get flack from its general accreditor, which is essentially controlled by the competing schools it accredits. Accreditation reeks of monopoly elements, disastrous conflicts of interest, and other maladies that are worthy of a few essays of their own on another day. [Editor's note: Read the Martin Center's most recent take on the subject here .]If colleges went to a three-year bachelor's degree with internship/apprenticeship opportunities, students could get a good general education and solid training in a major field of study, along with practical experience in the real world of work.Earnings data suggest that a large part of the human capital of our workers comes not through their formal study as children and young adults but via their on-the-job training. College graduates at age 50 typically make much more money (often at least double) than what their similarly trained 23-year-old counterparts make. Getting students out into the world a year or so earlier via three-year degrees would reduce education costs, increase the working proportion of the population, reduce student debt, and improve the national output. Let's do it.One caveat is in order. Some college education at present is effectively high-level vocational training, which may take four years to do correctly. I am thinking of degrees in engineering or architecture, for example. The optimal amount of higher education probably varies by discipline.For students learning to do computer coding, a rigorous one- or two-year course works beautifully and avoids the unproductive diminishing returns associated with taking a plethora of largely irrelevant courses. I read stories of students who, after a couple of years of intensive training, get extremely well-paid jobs in computer-intensive fields. No extraneous coursework, no brainwashing in diversity and equity-just useful training. Such programs evidently do not go past the point of diminishing returns.Higher education could learn from this experience. To be sure, we now offer professional degrees for those wanting to enter highly skilled vocations like medicine or law. But even here, I think reform is needed. I will save that for the second installment on this topic, coming next month.
This post appears here courtesy of The James G. Martin Center . The author of this post is Graham Hillard Shortly after our February report on DEI activity at Appalachian State University, the Martin Center received a tip from a concerned App State employee. According to this faculty member (who has requested anonymity), App State has been paying many of itsgraduate assistants a higher hourly wage than itsgrad students receive. This pay disparity, our source maintained, was neither accidental nor informal but part of a longstanding, written policy in App State's Cratis D. Williams School of Graduate Studies.To support this claim, our source provided the following chart, which seems to indicate that rates of pay forandgraduate assistants have indeed diverged since at least the 2016-17 academic year. (The red column borders are a Martin Center addition.)As the reader will note, the standard hourly rate of pay for all traditional graduate assistants in 2011-12 was $13.33 or $15.00, depending on the size of one's total stipend. For grad students in the special Graduate Research Assistant Mentoring (GRAM) program, the hourly rate of pay was $18.33, in keeping with the separate status and duties associated with that program.So far, so good, as there is obviously nothing wrong with paying graduate assistants different hourly rates based on merit (in this case, competitive fellowships and programs). The problem begins, as previously stated, in 2016-17, with the introduction of a specialcolumn.Perusing that column, one finds that at least somegraduate students received an hourly pay rate of $15.00, despite the fact that many of theircolleagues worked for $13.33 per hour. By the 2022-23 academic year, thehourly rate had increased to $20.00, outpacing both of the standard pay rates awarded tograduate students. (The GRAM program, to which grad students of all races and genders may apply, pays slightly more.)Was the App State graduate school, in contravention of the spirit (and possibly the letter) of UNC policy and federal law, practicing compensation discrimination? It certainly appeared so.Like all UNC-System institutions, Appalachian State University is bound by the UNC Policy Manual, which states,Turning to The Code itself (a rulebook that), one finds the following:Undergirding both of these stances is language provided by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), which makes clear that[emphasis added]. As an American employer, a public institution of higher learning, and the recipient of federally-guaranteed student-loan dollars, App State is bound by all three of the statutes mentioned by the EEOC.Upon receiving our source's information, the Martin Center immediately reached out to the Appalachian State University communications office for comment. The reply was unequivocal:Presented with the above chart, however, the institution acknowledged in a follow-up email that its original answer had been mistaken. App State does indeed award as many as 20each year. These awards, as the university's website made clear until recently, are available on a competitive basis to incoming graduate students who compose a 600-wordessayAsked by the Martin Center to name the characteristics that allow one to identify asApp State conceded thatOur source, however, described a de facto standard that is rather more specific:Assuming our source is correct, it is difficult to avoid a series of damning conclusions. First, App State has been paying up to 20 graduate students a year a separate wage on the basis of their immutable characteristics. Second, the characteristics in question are practically a who's-who of attributes listed in the EEOC's anti-compensation-discrimination language. Third, straight, white, American men and women who fail to practice areligion have been denied equal opportunity on a public campus.There's a familiar name for this sort of practice: systemic discrimination.Curiously, since the Martin Center began asking questions about App State'sinformation about the opportunity has vanished from the graduate school'spage. Until at least mid-February, the fellowship had its own anchor link . (Note the URL.) However, that link, followed now, fails to turn up the promised material. While the now-missing information remains viewable thanks to the Wayback Machine (i.e., the Internet Archive), a search of App State's website produces, as of this writing, only glancing reference toIn an email to the Martin Center this past Friday, the App State communications office asserted that the university will no longer offer the fellowship in question after this academic year. If true, such a move is little short of an admission of guilt. The public would be remiss not to ask whether other discriminatory practices remain.Whether App State has been breaking the law is a question for regulators and courts. Whether its practice has been shameful, unethical, and unjustifiable is a question for all North Carolinians. The answer could hardly be more obvious.
The Biden administration admitted this week that more than 1,100 pages of vice presidential records were located at President Joe Biden's former office at a think tank in Washington, D.C.In response to a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request by America First Legal, a group founded by former Trump administration official Stephen Miller, the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) said itthe requestfound at the Penn Biden Center.NARA's March 29 letter attributed the rejection to special counsel Robert Hur's ongoing investigation into Biden's handling of classified government documents to determine whether anyone broke the law. The letter, signed by Archival Operations Division Director Stephannie Oriabure, offers more clarity about the sheer number of pages investigators may be examining.In the days before the 2022 election, Biden's team said they found about 10 records marked classified while clearing out Biden's office at the D.C. think tank. Since then, searches by Biden's lawyers and the FBI have taken place at Biden's home in Wilmington, Delaware, his beach house in Rehoboth, Delaware, which have turned up more materials of interest to investigators. NARA also informed Congress its staff obtained nine boxes of materials from the Boston office of a personal attorney to Biden that had been moved from the Penn Biden Center.NARA is tasked with taking custody of presidential and vice presidential records at the end of an administration under the Presidential Records Act. However, the agency said it could not provide any other new information in response to other aspects of America First Legal's FOIA request for vice presidential records either because of a lack of physical custody of certain records or because of Hur's inquiry.Beyond the scope of the FOIA request, some documents that have been uncovered reportedly date back to Biden's time as a U.S. senator. Between 25 and 30 classified documents were known to have been found since November, a source told CBS News in late January.Biden's personal attorneys and the White House have insisted they are cooperating with the National Archives and Justice Department. Still, there is frustration in Congress about a lack of transparency from the Biden administration, even among Democrats. Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA), the chairman of the Intelligence Committee, told MSNBC he gives the Biden administration anon this front.Classified documents have also been found in the homes of former President Donald Trump, who is facing an investigation by a separate special counsel, and former Vice President Mike Pence, prompting the National Archives to call on other former presidents and vice presidents to check for such materials.
Even Biden's "woke" Department of Defense is objecting to the Biden's regime's demand for massive construction of offshore wind turbines, saying that they are a threat to national security. However, being woke, they want to negotiate.

The environmentalists concerned about the threat to offshore marine life, including critically endangered Atlantic Right Whales, and seabirds, however are not negotiating. They are suing. So are commercial fishermen who see their industry being destroyed.

The other big losers are electric power customers because offshore wind is one of the most expensive ways to make electricity.

https://redstate.com/mike_miller/2023/04/17/defense-department-warns-bidens-green-energy-plans-threaten-national-security-n732606


Tokyo must rethink release of radioactive water



Japan and Germany have a history of amicable relations and have usually supported each other on international issues. But things were different last Sunday.



At a news conference after the G7 environment ministers' meeting, Japan tried to elicit unanimous support from other participants for its planned release of radioactive water into the sea. Germany quashed such hopes.



German Environment Minister Steffi Lemke made it clear she "cannot welcome the release of the treated water." Later, Japanese Trade and Industry Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura had to say he was "slightly wrong."



We feel relieved that Germany, undoubtedly the most qualified member of G7 to put the brakes on Japan's unscrupulous attempt, did so. Despite the internal controversy, the European country shut down its last nuclear plant a day earlier. Japan will likely take another shot at the G7 summit next month before releasing radioactive water in a few months.



But it must not. No developed country with a conscience should do that.



Tokyo says it will filter out radioactive substances before dumping the water from the Fukushima Daiichi Plant into the sea and water down the rest, such as tritium. However, many foreign experts doubt the credibility and consistency of data supplied by the Japanese government and the Tokyo Electric Power Co. Japan is highly reluctant to share even such limited data.



The Japanese government cites support from the U.S. government and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). However, Washington is ill-positioned to raise issues with other countries contaminating oceans. The U.S. had long used some Pacific islands as sites to test atomic bombs. The IAEA is basically a pro-atomic-energy organization. Japan is its third-largest financial contributor after the U.S. and China. A Japanese official had headed it for nearly a decade until two years ago.



Most of all, there are alternatives to dumping radioactive water into the sea, including storing it on land or evaporating it. The world's third-largest economy just chose the cheapest way. It then tries to convince others  and itself  in vain that there is no harm. Tokyo says tritium is all but harmless if diluted to one hundred thousandths. Yet, scientists refute that the absolute amount in the sea remains the same and it is harmful if it enters the human body. Tokyo must ask itself which is more important, money or people and the environment.



The Yoon Suk Yeol government's position on this issue remains lukewarm at best. It reiterates Japan's radioactive water discharge plan must ensure safety on a "scientific and objective" level, stressing transparency in "all processes of the discharge." Seoul seems to take the discharge for granted  if unconsciously.



Compare this with China. "The disposal of nuclear-contaminated water is by no means Japan's private matter," a director-general of the Chinese foreign ministry said about a month ago. He added that it is driven by Japan's selfish interests, and Tokyo has not responded to international concerns and addressed them accordingly. In conclusion, the official said, "The Pacific Ocean is not Japan's sewer for discharging its nuclear-contaminated water."



The Pacific Islands Forum also called for shelving the release. A group of 18 Pacific islands expressed the position that the nuclear wastewater be released "only when we have enough data and information to make a full assessment of impacts to human health and environment."



According to Japanese media, Yoon told Japanese officials he would try to persuade Koreans on this issue, even if it takes some time during his visit to Japan on March 16-17. After the Korean media took issue with the report, the presidential office vowed not to import Japanese fisheries products caught near Fukushima. However, Tokyo will dispute that it is "unscientific and unobjective" to ban fisheries imports while approving the release of radioactive water.



Yoon cites national interests in conceding nearly everything to Japan. But there are no national interests that come before the public's health and safety. Yoon must make this clear when he revisits Tokyo in May.




A new report from the United Nations has called for decriminization of sex with children. It contends that children of any age should be able to consent to sexual intercourse with anyone, including adults. This is just the latest in the globalists siding with sexual perversion over normalcy, in this instance promoting pedophilia.

https://humanevents.com/2023/04/16/new-un-report-advocates-for-decriminalizing-sex-with-minors

https://www.theblaze.com/news/un-backed-report-suggests-minors-may-be-able-to-consent-to-sex-critics-accuse-org-of-attempting-to-normalize-pedophilia

https://www.foxnews.com/lifestyle/un-backed-legal-recommendations-normalize-sex-minors-critics-say
Deep in the heart of Montrose, there's a bar that offers food, drinks, and, on certain nights, DJs who'll spin some intoxicating music.

93' Til, named after Bay Area hip-hop group Souls of Mischief's beloved 1993 song "'93 Til Infinity," is a record bara hangout where people can eat food, sip cocktails, and listen to the myriad of records that adorn the shelves. The bar usually has DJs spinning tunes on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and the first Friday of the month; they'll set up their turntables in the front (right next to the shelves of records and a pink-neon "Music for the People" sign) and play vinyl goodies throughout the evening.

"It's always a pleasure for me to play music for people, and particularly in places where vinyl appreciation is displayed and welcomed," says SoulOne, who does a monthly set. Flash Gordon Parks, who also plays 93' Til once a month, can't get enough of the place either. "It's been an awesome experience to be able to play all types of records at spaces where the audience is open to hear great music," he says.

Lung Ly

For a long time, record bars were a thing you could only find in Japan. This goes all the way back to the late 1920s, when cafes were becoming known as jazz kissaestablishments where you could listen to imported jazz that was too expensive to buy. "I spent a little time in Tokyo, and there's a bunch of record bars out there," says chef/owner Lung Ly, who opened 93' Til in 2020 with former Underbelly sous chef Gary Ly (no relation). "I figured that it would be really cool to have something here like that."

In recent years, record bars have been popping up in major U.S. cities. Veteran DJ and Stones Throw Records founder Peanut Butter Wolf opened Gold Line, a vinyl bar that features 7,500 records from the DJ's own collection, in Los Angeles. Philly vinyl head Rich Medina serves as the music director for Dante's HiFi, which has bars in Miami and, most recently, Austin. The Texas state capital is, in fact, swarming with listening bars, including Drinks Lounge, The Long Play Lounge, and the just-opened Equipment Room, located inside Hotel Magdalena.

Andre Sam-Sin

You could also call long-running Montrose hideaway The Flat a record barbut be careful saying that around DJ Sun. "I wouldn't characterize us as a record bar," Sun says. "I would characterize us more as a bar that was taken over by its resident DJ." The veteran Houston spinner has been owning, operating, and programming the music at The Flat since the mid-2010s. Along with giving local DJs a spot to spin some tunes, he has also brought in such visiting superstars as King Britt, Tony Touch and Stretch Armstrong.

Recently, Sun made some cosmetic changes to the establishment. Doing DJ sets at his home studio during the pandemic (which were also broadcast on Instagram Live) made him want to set up a similar DJ area at The Flat. "I was inspired by those sets and how people were coming in and really loving it," he says. Sun collaborated with sculpture light duo Moon Papas and Gin Braverman's Gin Design Studio in coming up with a DJ area filled with shelves of vinyl and a table where DJs can put in either turntables or CDJs (compact disc jockeys). "We might now be known as a vinyl bar, but I just wanna set the record straight," Sun says. "We do have a digital playlist that's coming through Spotify, and we do play CDJs most nights."

Lung Ly

Sun welcomes various DJs into the tricked-out space to play music throughout the week, and usually offers his trademark "soular grooves" on Saturdays. Sunday afternoon, meanwhile, is reserved for the DJs who only play vinyl. "I'd like to maybe even establish a route where some of these luminary vinyl DJs play Austin [on Saturday] and then Houston on a Sunday afternoon," Sun says.

Although Houston has restaurants where you can also buy records, like Mo' Better Brews in the Museum District and Vino & Vinyl in Sugar Land, bars like 93' Til and The Flat are looking to wow patrons with carefully curated music, either from the owners or the DJs they call in. And, according to what Ly sees at 93' Til, Houston seems ready to take in more record-bar grooves. "I think it's catching on here," Ly says. "I try to play stuff that's not too mainstreamthings people don't normally listen to on a regular basis. That's kind of the fun part: just educating our guests."

93' Til is open Tuesday through Sunday. The Flat is open seven days a week.
Pathogenesis: A History of the World in Eight Plagues, by Jonathan Kennedy (Crown)

Great historical changes are often conceived of as being brought about by the genius and tenacity of great men, or occasionally women, but Jonathan Kennedy argues in his book Pathogenesis: A History of the World in Eight Plagues, that germs are largely responsible for everything from the decline of the Neanderthals to the current poverty of sub-Saharan Africa.

His quick history of the world from the Paleolithic to the present day offers a different lens to view many of the big events of the past. Some of Kennedy's conclusions are mere speculation, like his idea that deadly plagues in the Roman empire led to the swift rise of Christianity. In the midst of so much death, he argues, the new religion offered a more enticing view of the afterlife than paganism.

Most of his observations are bolstered by more historical research and are more convincing. In showing how pathogens helped the Spanish conquer Central and South America, Kennedy explains that European diseases including smallpox and measles killed or incapacitated most of the native population, which had no immunity to the previously unknown germs. One outbreak in 1545 alone is estimated to have killed up to 80% of the Indigenous peoples of Mesoamerica.

The death and destruction also accelerated their religious conversion as many of the remaining Indigenous peoples, along with the Spanish, saw it as proof that the Christian God was superior, Kennedy argues.

On the other side of the Atlantic, Kennedy explains how resistance to infectious disease  especially the malaria and yellow fever prevalent in parts of sub-Saharan Africa  boosted the slave trade. Disease-resistant Africans were less likely to die on the new world plantations than Europeans, and much of the native population had already been wiped out. The subsequent association of Africans with slavery contributed to the ideology of white supremacy that continues to impact the way African Americans are treated today, Kennedy argues.

The presence of malaria and yellow fever also prevented Europeans from colonizing the African interior, but only for a time. That changed when quinine was discovered to help prevent death from malaria. But because the rates of death and disease were still high, the colonies attracted desperate and ruthless individuals with a desire to make a quick fortune and get out. It was disease, Kennedy argues, that helped create the harshly extractive colonial economies in places like the Congo, the repercussions of which are still felt in the extreme poverty of those countries.

Poverty, including in wealthy countries like the United States, is a sort of modern plague, killing millions each year with both infectious disease and non-communicable diseases like diabetes, Kennedy argues in the final chapter. These poverty-associated health problems, in turn, have been associated with higher death rates during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Kennedy ends with a passionate plea for public health expenditures to eliminate disease. Relying on examples of successful public health campaigns throughout the book, he argues that such an investment will both improve human lives and bolster economies.
MARK FELIX/AFP /AFP via Getty Images

Texas is no stranger to hurricanes and heavy flooding, and the risk of these natural disasters is increasing as sea levels in the Gulf of Mexico rise.

A new report in Nature Communications found sea levels in the Gulf of Mexico have risen by about a half inch every year since 2010.
HARRISONBURG, Va. (AP)  A Civil War reenactor has pleaded guilty to charges that he planted a pipe bomb at a Virginia battlefield in 2017 and wrote letters falsely claiming that antifa protesters were to blame.

Prosecutors on Tuesday announced the guilty plea from Gerald Leonard Drake, 63, of Winchester.
RICHMOND, Va. (AP)  Nearly six years after a large gathering of white nationalists in Charlottesville erupted in violent clashes with counterprotesters, a grand jury in Virginia has indicted multiple people on felony charges for carrying flaming torches with the intent to intimidate.

The Albemarle County Commonwealth's Attorney's Office said in a news release that the indictments relate to an event on Aug. 11, 2017. That's when a group of white nationalists carrying torches marched through the campus of the University of Virginia, some chanting, Jews will not replace us."

Commonwealth's Attorney James Hingeley did not say in the release how many people have been indicted and did not immediately return a call and email seeking comment on Tuesday. According to electronic court records, the indictments against three people have been unsealed, including William Zachary Smith, of Nacona, Texas; Tyler Bradley Dykes, of Bluffton, South Carolina; and Dallas Medina, of Ravenna, Ohio.

Each is charged with a single count of burning an object with the intent of intimidating a person or group of people. The charge carries a maximum penalty of up to five years in prison.

Smith's attorney, Cody Villalon, declined to comment when reached by phone Tuesday. Dykes and Medina do not have the name of any attorneys listed in electronic court records.

The indictments, which were issued in February but only recently unsealed, come almost six years after violence broke out during two days of demonstrations by the largest gathering of white nationalists in a decade.

Clashes began on the night of Aug. 11, 2017, during the torch march, and continued the following day, when a Unite the Right rally was planned. James Alex Fields Jr., a white supremacist from Maumee, Ohio, rammed his car into a crowd of counterprotesters, killing one woman and injuring dozens. Fields is serving a life sentence for murder and hate crimes.

Prosecutors said the indictments were issued as part of a criminal investigation that is active and ongoing, adding they work with law enforcement to investigate, analyze applicable laws, and bring charges when appropriate.

This is our process regardless of how much time has passed or where the alleged offenders may be found, they said.

Former President Donald Trump set off a firestorm of criticism when he said there were very fine people on both sides of the clashes between white nationalists and anti-racist demonstrators in Charlottesville.
Two people have been arrested after a robbery last week at a Speedy Stop on College Street.

Patrick Bridgewater, 20, and another person who police only described as a "juvenile" were arrested for aggravated robbery/unauthorized use of a motor vehicle and evading in a motor vehicle related to the offense, according to Beaumont police.

At 12:48 a.m. Friday, Beaumont police received the report of a robbery in progress at the Speedy Stop at 8391 College St. on the corner of North Major Drive.

Bridgewater and the child were seen eastbound on College Street as officers were headed to the scene, according to Beaumont police. An officer approaching the scene saw a 2021 white Kia Forte speeding eastbound on College Street. When officers tried to stop the Kia, the driver led officers on a chase that ended in the 2100 block of North Twin City Highway, in Nederland, where they were arrested.

RELATED: Beaumont bank reports Thursday morning attempted robbery

Police determined the pair went into the store together, before Bridgewater jumped the counter, pulled out a handgun, demanded the money and grabbed it from the till.

The juvenile acted as a look-out before jumping on the counter and grabbing merchandise and then driving away with Bridgewater in the Kia, which had been reported stolen since March 31, police said.The two stole an undisclosed amount of cigarettes and cash from the store, police said.

Bridgewater was taken to the Jefferson County jail, while the juvenile was taken to Minnie Rogers Juvenile Justice Facility.
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An Oklahoma sheriffs office says a newspaper's audio recording in which the sheriff and other county officials are reportedly heard discussing killing two journalists and hanging Black people was illegal and predicted felony charges will be filed.

A post on the sheriff's office Facebook page  the agency's first public comment since the comments by Sheriff Kevin Clardy and others were reported by the McCurtain Gazette-News  does not address the recorded discussion, but calls the situation complex and one we regret having to address.

The threatening comments by the officials that were recorded have sparked outrage and protests. Oklahoma's GOP Gov. Kevin Stitt and state Rep. Eddy Dempsey, a Republican who represents the area, have called for Clardy and others to resign. NAACP leaders in Oklahoma also called for the FBI and the Department of Justice to investigate.

The sheriff's statement calls the past 72 hours amongst the most difficult and disruptive in recent memory and says the recording was altered and involves many victims.

There is and has been an ongoing investigation into multiple, significant violation(s) of the Oklahoma Security of Communications Act ... which states that it is illegal to secretly record a conversation in which you are not involved and do not have the consent of at least one of the involved parties, according to the statement.

Joey Senat, a journalism professor at Oklahoma State University, said under Oklahoma law, the recording would be legal if it were obtained in a place where the officials being recorded did not have a reasonable expectation of privacy.

Bruce Willingham, the longtime publisher of the McCurtain Gazette-News, said the recording was made March 6 when he left a voice-activated recorder inside the room after a county commissioners meeting because he suspected the group was continuing to conduct county business after the meeting had ended in violation of the states Open Meeting Act.

Willingham said he twice spoke with his attorneys to be sure he was doing nothing illegal.

The newspaper released portions of the recording in which Clardy, sheriff's Capt. Alicia Manning and District 2 County Commissioner Mark Jennings appear to discuss Bruce and Chris Willingham, a reporter for the newspaper who is Bruce Willingham's son. Jennings tells Clardy and Manning I know where two deep holes are dug if you ever need them, and the sheriff responded, Ive got an excavator.

Jennings also reportedly says hes known two or three hit men in Louisiana, adding theyre very quiet guys.

In the recording, Jennings also appears to complain about not being able to hang Black people, saying: They got more rights than we got.

Jail Administrator Larry Hendrix was also present during the conversation.

The Associated Press could not immediately verify the authenticity of the recording. None of the four have returned telephone calls or emails from The Associated Press.

Glenn Cook, the executive editor of the Las Vegas Review-Journal, where reporter Jeff German was stabbed to death in September allegedly by an elected official the reporter was investigating, said he was chilled to the bone after learning about the Oklahoma case.

What's almost as troubling as the contents of the recording is the complete absence of shame, Cook said of the sheriff's office's response to the incident. Sadly, the willingness of government to protect itself at all costs really never surprises me, but in this particular case the kind of digging in that we're seeing reflects incredibly poorly on the people of Oklahoma.

A spokesperson for the FBIs office in Oklahoma City declined to comment on the case. Phil Bacharach, a spokesperson for Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond, said the agency had received an audio recording and is investigating the incident, but declined to comment further.

Bruce Willingham said he believes the local officials were upset about stories weve run that cast the sheriffs office in an unfavorable light, including the death of Bobby Barrick, a Broken Bow, Oklahoma, man who died at a hospital in March 2022 after McCurtain County deputies shot him with a stun gun. The newspaper has filed a lawsuit against the sheriffs office seeking body camera footage and other records connected to Barricks death.

Separately, Chris Willingham has filed a federal lawsuit against the sheriff's office, Clardy, Manning and the Board of County Commissioners alleging Manning slandered him after he wrote an eight-part series of articles detailing problems inside the sheriff's office. The lawsuit claims after the first few articles were published, Clardy and Manning began investigating which office employees were speaking to the newspaper and were attempting to get a search warrant for Willingham's phone.

The lawsuit, which was filed on the same day the recording was made, alleges that after the series was published, Manning told a third party during a teleconference that Chris Willingham exchanged marijuana for pornographic images of children from a man who had been arrested on child pornography charges.

Manning made these (and other) false statements about Willingham in retaliation for articles he wrote about the (sheriff's office) as a reporter for the McCurtain Gazette and to destroy his credibility as a reporter and journalist, the lawsuit states.

More than 100 people gathered outside the McCurtain County Courthouse in Idabel on Monday, with many of them calling for the sheriff and other county officials to resign.

On Tuesday, the Oklahoma Sheriff's Association, a voluntary membership organization and not a regulatory agency, held an emergency meeting of its board. It voted unanimously to suspend Clardy, Manning and Hendrix from the association.

The sheriff's office statement said there have been a large number of threats of violence including death threats against unspecified county employees, officials, their families and friends since the conversation was first reported.

The statement said the sheriff's office will issue news releases until its investigation concludes and findings are forwarded to the appropriate authorities for felony charges to be filed on those involved.

The incident in Oklahoma follows the February killing of a television news reporter who was shot and killed and a cameraman wounded in Florida while filming a story about a homicide that happened earlier that day.
Photo for The Washington Post by Rebecca Kiger

Im replying to the Letters to the Editor section of the Beaumont Enterprise dated Sunday March 19, 2023 concerning the statement that the rash of railcar derailments and two recent bank failures are a direct result of President Donald Trump's deregulation of the railroad and banking industry. I have found no conclusive evidence of this statement.



The deregulation of the railroad industry addressed the requirement of ECP (electronically controlled pneumatic) brakes concerning High-Hazard Flammable Trains only. Even if the ECP regulation been implemented, the train in East Palestine would not have meet the definition of an HHF Train and therefore not be required to have this braking system. Jennifer Homendy, chair of the National Transportation Safety Board, explained that the derailment was most likely caused by an overheated wheel bearing on one of the freight cars and that the ECP brake system would not have prevented this derailment.



The deregulation of the banking industry addressed the requirements of excessive government oversight of banks based on the 2010 Dodd-Frank Act. The 2018 reform to this act was to increase from $50 billion to $250 billion at which a bank is subject to enhanced regulation by the Federal Reserve. However, this change also allowed the Federal Reserve to retain the discretion to apply enhanced regulatory standards to any specific bank greater than $100 billion, if the Fed feels that is warranted.

I believe the bank failures were caused by specific bank managers' mismanagement and the lack of federal regulators to do their job. Even Barney Frank, co-author of the Dodd-Frank Act, recently stated he doesnt think there is any sign that the rollback caused the problem in the first place and that authority was in no way affected by the 2018 increase in the level of banks subject to the closest supervision.
From artificial intelligence-assisted gastrointestinal procedures to ChatGPT in medicine, here are five AI updates for ASC leaders to know:

1. Forbes named five healthcare AI companies, including Insitro and PathAI, to its fifth annual "AI 50" list.

2. When asked about the best ASC in the U.S., chatbot ChatGPT named five options.

3. Four facilities have added Medtronic's artificial intelligence-assisted polyp detection device GI Genius since January.

4. Becker's named 14 unique ways ChatGPT can be used in healthcare, including for medical recordkeeping and remote patient monitoring.

5. About 59 percent of Americans do not want artificial intelligence-driven robots used in their own care.


By Ahn Ho-young



This year marks the 70th anniversary of the ceasefire of the Korean War as well as the Mutual Defense Treaty between South Korea and the United States. Ten years ago, I used to be the Korean ambassador to the U.S., and worked with U.S. colleagues to organize the 60th anniversary of the ceasefire and the alliance.



On the morning of July 27, 2013, thousands of people gathered at the Mall near the Korean War Veterans Memorial. The ceremony lasted for more than two hours, culminating with the speech of then-President Barack Obama. In the speech, he called the Korean War the Forgotten Victory.



That new definition of the Korean War impressed me deeply and made me think. I knew for a fact that the Korean War had long been known in the U.S. as the Forgotten War. What does it mean that the President of the U.S. now calls it the Forgotten Victory? I thought that his intention was to applaud the developments that Korea had achieved as a nation over the intervening 60 years and the role that the Korea-U.S. alliance had played along the way. During the following more than four years when I worked in Washington as an ambassador, I shared the new definition and my interpretation of it with U.S. citizens.



Ten years passed since then. I think it has been a tumultuous and momentous 10 years in every sense. The year 2013 had not yet seen the Russian invasion of Crimea. Russia was attending the G7 summit as the eighth participant. Russia was engaged in various dialogues and cooperation with NATO. People still basked in the belief that the rules-based international order attracted former communist countries and offered the basis for globalization and the continued economic benefits, which accrue from it. After 10 years, the tenet of liberal democracy, underlying the rules-based international order, is being challenged in various corners of the world.



Even more alarming is what we observe in the U.S. and other countries where the values and institutions of liberal democracy were born and nurtured. We observe mounting challenges to democracy with the wide spread of social and racial bigotries and right-wing nationalism.



These geopolitical and political changes are taking place concurrently with dazzling developments in science and technology. Most remarkable for me are the developments being made in AI, machine learning and quantum computing. AI and machine learning are generative by nature, distinguished from any preceding breakthroughs in science and technology. When they are combined with developments in quantum computing, it can open vast areas of positive applications. At the same time, there are deeply worrying scenarios about the horrible danger humanity will face when the same breakthroughs are abused.



What do these changes over the past 10 years imply for the KoreaU.S. alliance? I have always thought that the strength of the alliance lies in its capacity to adapt itself to the changes in the environment.



As for the geopolitical challenges, Korea has already declared where it stands by announcing its participation in the U.S.' Indo-Pacific Strategy at the end of last year. Korea will work with the U.S. and other like-minded countries to defend and maintain the rules-based international order and its underlying values.



With respect to the dazzling developments in science and technology, I think it is in that area that the alliance must be meaningfully realized. It is because science and technology hold the key to tackling not only the economic and political difficulties we face in both of our countries, but also even for dealing with geopolitical challenges.



In fact, there are ample reasons to believe that both of our countries have a lot to gain from further strengthening cooperation in science and technology. For one, we share common values. For another, the U.S. excels by far in making truly meaningful breakthroughs in science and technology, while Korean industries have mastery over the application of those breakthroughs on the factory floor, something called process knowledge. That's one more reason why Presidents Yoon Suk Yeol and Joe Biden should focus intensely on science and technology when they meet later this month.



Along with these issues calling for the adaptation of the alliance, the alliance is now faced with two clear and urgent challenges. One of them is the unbridled development of strategic and tactical nuclear weapons by North Korea and its repeated threat to use them preemptively against South Korea. There are increasing signs that the North's behavior is undermining South Korean citizens' confidence in the extended deterrence of the U.S.



Another challenge for the alliance is the modality through which the U.S. intends to implement U.S. laws legislated for reshoring critical industries back to the U.S. and foreclosing technological and industrial abuses by certain countries. Some of the modalities are undermining the critical interests of major industries in Korea and other allies of the U.S. I am confident that Presidents Yoon and Biden will address these two urgent challenges sufficiently as well when they meet in Washington.





Ahn Ho-young (hyahn78@mofa.or.kr) is chair professor of North Korean studies, Kyungnam University. He also served as Korean ambassador to the U.S. and vice foreign minister.




All of medicine's 10 highest-earning specialties saw an increase in average pay compared to 2022, according to Medscape's "Physician Compensation Report" for 2023.

Medscape surveyed 10,011 physicians across more than 29 specialties about their income, work hours, job satisfaction and more from Oct. 7, 2022, to Jan. 17, 2023. The full methodology can be found here.

The average income of primary care physicians in 2023 was $265,000. Specialists earned an average of $382,000.

Here is how the salaries in 2023's highest-paid specialties changed in the last year:

1. Plastic surgery: $619,000 (+7 percent)

2. Orthopedics: $573,000 (+3 percent)

3. Cardiology: $507,000 (+4 percent)

4. Urology: $506,000 (+10 percent)

5. Gastroenterology: $501,000 (+11 percent)

6. Otolaryngology: $485,000 (+4 percent)

7. Radiology: $483,000 (+10 percent)

8. Oncology: $463,000 (+13 percent)

9. Anesthesiology: $448,000 (+10 percent)

10. Dermatology: $443,000 (+1 percent)
Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tenn., has reached an agreement to settle allegations of violating the False Claims Act.

The United States alleged that Meharry submitted fraudulent claims to Medicare for physician services in the internal medicine, OB-GYN and psychiatric outpatient clinics, in addition to psychiatric consultations at Nashville General Hospital, from 2016 until March 2020.

However, these services were allegedly provided by unsupervised residents, according to an April 17 news release from the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Tennessee.

Meharry agreed to pay $100,749 to resolve the allegations, in addition to implementing a Medicare billing policy that would provide training to faculty and first-year residents and ensure compliance with Medicare billing requirements.

The claims in the settlement were allegations only and there was no determination of liability, the release said.
Michigan physician Scott Cooper, MD, pleaded guilty April 17 to illegally distributing more than 7,000 oxycodone pills.

According to court documents, Dr. Cooper practiced as a primary care physician at Comprehensive Medical Associates in West Bloomfield, Mich., from 2013 through 2018, where he treated patients who sought prescription drug-controlled substances including oxycodone, hydrocodone, methadone, alprazolam and dextroamphetamine-amphetamine.

Dr. Cooper admitted to not wanting to see his controlled substance patients and continued to prescribe controlled substances without seeing them, according to an April 17 news release from the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Michigan.

The count of conviction relates to a prescription written in October 2017 for 120 dosage units of oxycodone for a patient in prison for whom Dr. Cooper continued to write monthly prescriptions despite not seeing them for nearly three years.

Dr. Cooper has not been able to write prescriptions since June 2020 due to bond conditions and will face a sentence of at least 44 months in prison, the release said.
Cardiology has been recognized as a prime growth specialty for ASCs, so why aren't there more cardiovascular-focused surgery centers?

Cardiology is the fastest-growing ASC specialty, according to Avanza's "2022 Key ASC Benchmarks and Industry Figures" report. Though the speciality has gained popularity in the surgery center space, it has yet to become commonplace.

Prashanth Bala, vice president of ASC operations at Shields Health in Quincy, Mass., spoke with Becker's to discuss why this is the case.

Editor's note: Responses have been lightly edited for length and clarity.

Question: Though outpatient cardiology is becoming more common, why aren't cardiovascular-focused ASCs an industry standard at this point in time?

Prashanth Bala: I think we're gonna see that happen over time. But I think one of the number one reasons, at least what we're seeing here in the Massachusetts and New England market, is that most of those cardiologists or cardiovascular surgeons are employed by hospitals. So it makes it harder for them to break free and do something separately. If they're employed by the hospitals, and or since they're employed by hospitals, unless the hospital or the health system wants to do freestanding facilities such as an ASC focusing on cardiovascular, it typically isn't done or isn't seen. So though it is sort of becoming a national trend, you're seeing that happen more amongst the private groups. They're doing remarkably well and they're showing that the quality of care that can be performed in the outpatient setting is as good as, if not better than, some of the hospitals. It's the same providers doing great high-quality care, just in a different location.

Q: What is pushing cardiovascular procedures to ASCs?

PB: I think it starts with the payers. Medicare, for example, has included those CPT codes now on the outpatient ASC fee schedule, allowing for those procedures to be reimbursed. If they're being reimbursed, you're finding providers now taking advantage of that, and moving those cases into a location that they can better control or to gain efficiencies from.

First and foremost is that Medicare now reimburses several cardiology related CPT codes. But secondly, something that you have to keep an eye on is our state regulations. State regulations either allow you to move [cardiovascular procedures] into an outpatient setting or restrict the types of procedures that can be performed in the outpatient setting. That may be another reason why you're not seeing too many of those cardiovascular ACS popping up just yet.

I think there's still room for growth and opportunity, but I think it's going to be a state-by-state determination of whether these are prevalent or are really great opportunities. You are seeing a small subset of providers in the vascular space, taking advantage of the office based labs, and I think you'll see that continue to be prominent in the workplace as long as reimbursement is there. So to your question about what's pushing it, it's really the opportunity to be reimbursed.
Lake Martin Community Hospital in Dadeville, Ala., treated 15 teenagers who were shot during a birthday party at a nearby dance studio April 15.

Gunfire erupted late during a sweet 16 birthday party at a dance studio in downtown Dadeville on the evening of April 15, leaving four young people dead and 32 injured, according to a report from al.com. Few details have been released and no announcement of any arrests have been made. Fifteen teens with gunshot wounds were rushed to the emergency room at Lake Martin Community Hospital, hospital officials told local media outlets during an April 17 press conference.

"It's very traumatic in a healthcare setting and emergency room setting when you have one gunshot wound come through. But when you have 15, and they're all teenagers, our staff has been through a lot," said Heidi Smith, director of marketing for Ivy Creek Healthcare, which operates the hospital.

Of those brought to the hospital, six were treated and released. Nine of the victims were transferred to other hospitals, five of whom were in critical condition and four in stable condition, Ms. Smith said.

There have been more than 160 mass shootings across the U.S. in the first 15 weeks of the year, according to Gun Violence Archive.
An Indiana nurse pleaded guilty to a felony charge after being charged with removing a COVID-19 patient's oxygen at a nursing home, the Indianapolis Star reported April 17.

Connie Sneed, 54, was a licensed practical nurse at Clarksville, Ind.-based Wedgewood Healthcare Center when she made a Facebook post detailing how she allegedly removed a patient's oxygen to let him "fly with the angels." The patient, a 72-year-old man, died April 30, 2020, after being in the nursing home for a month. A co-worker saw the post and reported it to their supervisor, which led to an investigation and Ms. Sneed's termination.

Ms. Sneed pleaded guilty to knowingly or intentionally acting as a physician's assistant without a license, a Level 6 felony. However, under the plea deal, she will receive no jail time.
In rural areas, where hospitals are shuttering or are no longer offering care such as labor and delivery, patients have no choice but to travel for healthcare. However, in and around big cities, the situation is the opposite: competition between hospitals to attract patients is fierce.

In Northern New Jersey, a heavily populated region just over the bridges from New York City, there is no shortage of hospitals for patients to choose from, so it is incumbent upon healthcare systems to be at the top of their marketing game.

Mike Maron, president and CEO of Holy Name Medical Center in Teaneck, N.J., told Becker's his hospital's marketing strategy begins long before a patient steps into the building. A decade ago, Holy Name scooped up four digital billboards and every rotation on those billboards in a highly trafficked area and has been using them to go beyond traditional marketing messaging. When people are stuck in their cars waiting for traffic to move, the billboards are easy attention grabbers.

"We believe that we're part of the community  we're an integral part of the community. Trust is critical and if you want human beings to trust you, you can't act as an organization; you have to act more human," Mr. Maron said. "We use the billboards to express our humanity as an organization. We want to remind people that we are part of the community just like they are. We're not just here pushing our services."

Of course, sometimes the billboards advertise the medical center's specialties, a new initiative or a public service announcement. Even with a crackerjack marketing team, Mr. Maron said the patient experience begins at the top, and that is why he keeps an eye on hospital messaging  always quick to use the billboards to cheer on the community's successes.

For example, during the 2023 NCAA tournament, Teaneck-based Fairleigh Dickinson University  a No. 16 seed  beat No. 1-seeded Purdue University, based in West Lafayette, Ind. Two of Holy Name's digital billboards boasted about the hometown team's Cinderella story.

"We were excited to be able to congratulate Fairleigh Dickinson and to acknowledge the team's great success," Mr. Maron said. "The team's success is our community's success, too."

More than messaging

Many healthcare systems around the country completed major marketing rebrands since the beginning of the pandemic. Becker's talked with hospitals leaders all across the country and found, far and wide, marketing messaging that is patient-centered and safety-focused works.

Three examples are Saint Peter's University Hospital in New Brunswick, N.J., Oaklawn Hospital in Marshall, Mich., and Hartford Healthcare in Connecticut.

At Saint Peter's, the goal of "providing service excellence throughout a patients journey is threaded" throughout the healthcare system's marketing messaging, according to Michelle Lazzarotti, the organization's senior director of marketing.

"Our 'One Focus' themed campaign demonstrates our advocacy for our patients, always striving for clinical quality and patient safety and treating the entire person  mind, body and spirit  with the highest level of skill and compassion," she said.

Oaklawn's marketing coordinator, Sara Jeffery, said her team's strategy also puts patients first. "Our tagline is 'Real People. Real Care' because we pride ourselves on putting our patients first. Our patients won't feel like just a number here."

Hartford HealthCare's new brand campaign is called "Start Here," and it encourages consumers to do just that.

"The campaign uses vibrant visuals and a bold style that instantly communicates that this is not your traditional healthcare ad  nor your typical health system," Keith Fontaine, vice president of marketing and branding.

"Patients want easier access to care. They deserve more affordable care options. Our goal in this campaign is to spark a bold idea," said Mr. Fontaine, quoting the health system's new marketing video. "'It's time to question the status quo, to challenge assumptions and innovate every day.' This puts patients at the very center of the story  right where they belong."

Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles doubled down on humanizing healthcare when the COVID-19 pandemic started. Alan Dubovsky, the system's chief patient experience officer, told Becker's he and senior leadership at the medical center discovered the keys to providing the best patient experience are safety and trust.

"We never really understood, or never really appreciated, how much people needed that [messaging] from us. I think we always just assumed that people expected [hospitals] to be safe. And we assumed patients trusted us," Mr. Dubovsky said, noting early 2020 became an optimal time to re-energize Cedars-Sinai's patient-focused marketing strategy.

A video  one still shown today  was created within a month of the start of the pandemic in mid-2020 and shown to every patient admitted to the hospital. "We so appreciate you trusting us," Mr. Dubovsky said, paraphrasing the video's message. "Like the rest of the world, we know you have a lot of questions about what's going on. While we may not have every answer for you, what we can tell you is you're safe, you're in good hands and we're here to take care of you."

Before the onset of COVID-19, some elements of patient experience were "boxed into a cookie cutter approach," Mr. Dubovsky said, adding that the pandemic did give systems such as Cedars-Sinai a moment to reconsider how to approach everything  from feedback to marketing  through a new lens.

"In the context of a pandemic we thought, 'If there was ever a time to try something new, let's do it now,'" he said. "Truthfully, I think COVID gave us the flexibility and the freedom to be able to really try out leveraging new platforms and new innovative ways of capturing patient feedback and earning trust, too."

The importance of culture

Earning a patient's trust is vital, but the "commercialization of healthcare" makes it a hard thing to do, Mr. Maron said.

"With all the heavy advertising, patients view hospitals as businesses. Every hospital is pushing, pushing, pushing. It's cold and it's calculating. People feel that," he said.

If you are going to be in business, try the "wellness business," Mr. Maron said. "At Holy Name, we know we can't wait for people to get sick to connect with them. We want to be in the wellness business; we want to have relationships that are not transactional."

Mr. Maron said hospital leaders must realize that "culture" is more than a buzzword.

"Culture is a strong force that will determine the success or failure of your organization," he said. "Harness everything to strengthen the positive culture you want to create and be consistent about it. Also, make sure it's going to differentiate you in a very crowded field."

Patrice Sada, director of patient experience at Baptist Health Miami (Fla.) Cancer Institute, said her hospital's newest marketing initiative is a reflection of a culture that focuses on patients and their loved ones.

"It challenges each of us throughout the healthcare system to demonstrate compassion with each interaction with our patients and visitors," Ms. Sada said. "It is a simple yet powerful hospitality practice that provides the opportunity to create a memorable patient experience."

In the end, marketing efforts have one particular job to do: get patients in the door. Providing an excellent experience that will break down competitive barriers and create lifelong customers is the job of patient-facing employees and clinicians.

Jason Guardino, DO, chief experience officer for Oakland, Calif.-based The Permanente Medical Group in Northern California, said, "When hospitals provide excellent experiences, patients report having very good experiences.

"Therefore, we have to teach doctors and nurses to focus on creating great experiences. When we do that, they become more meticulous about the quality of the care they provide. They have higher-quality standards and, because of their patient-focused mindset, they're less likely to make medical errors. And, ultimately, there are better patient outcomes."

And that is really what success in a hospital looks like: better patient outcomes. Recalling the Robin Williams movie Patch Adams, Mr. Maron said, "You treat the disease, you win or you lose. You treat the person, you win every time."

As systems approach begin to move toward preparing for the end of the public health emergency come May, core marketing messaging that reflects patient well-being even in times of uncertainty and transition are likely to remain a constant thread.

In the event of a future pandemic, injecting patient voice, concerns, feedback and experience into messaging will be key to maintaining trust, Mr. Dubovsky said.

"I think in the blink of an eye, things can change  COVID has taught us that," he said. "It has been a roller coaster of patients, emotion and sentiment, but nothing will get you further than listening to your patients' voices in real time, in my opinion. If you are starting a new campaign, build a platform that allows you to, in real time, capture what patients really want to share with you, and then build messaging around that."
Canton, Ohio-based Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital donated an unused office building to Beacon Charitable Pharmacy, a nonprofit pharmacy that provides low-cost prescription medication.

The one-story building has not been used in several years, according to an April 17 hospital release. Beacon plans to spend more than $1 million to renovate the 5,800-square-foot space. Once complete, Beacon will expand its services, including pharmacy, immunizations, counseling and medication and health education.

In 2022, Beacon served more than 2,300 uninsured or underinsured residents and provided nearly 25,000 prescriptions that amounted to more than $4 million in wholesale value. About 95 percent of the medications are donated, according to the release.
If you are looking for a silver lining from the COVID-19 pandemic, it's this sad short-lived truth, Megan Ranney, MD, deputy dean at Providence, R.I.-based Brown University School of Public Health, told Becker's: "During the pandemic there were no school or workplace shootings."

With businesses and schools shuttered  everyone working and learning remotely  and the cancellations of any type of crowd-based activities, the opportunity for mass shootings didn't exist. However, she said, there was still plenty of gun violence.

"We saw a big rise in gun homicides and a small uptick in gun suicides," said Dr. Ranney, who assumes her new position as dean of the Yale School of Public Health in New Haven, Conn., in July. The pandemic may have provided a short hiatus from mass-casualty shootings, "but gun violence has been rising overall for more than a decade."

With the end of the public health emergency in sight (May 11) and school and events back to normal across the country, public mass shootings are back in the news  Louisville, Ky., Nashville, Tenn., Buffalo, N.Y., and Uvalde, Texas, to name a few. A mass shooting is defined by the Gun Violence Archive as an incident where four or more people are shot or killed.

According to the Gun Violence Archive, as of April 17, more than 30 mass shootings were reported in the first half of this month and 163 mass shootings were reported this year alone. This means there have been more mass gun violence events reported in the United States in 2023 than there have been days.

That being said, Dr. Ranney said the mass shootings are "the tip of the iceberg." One of the biggest challenges is how to stop gun violence before it even happens  not by trying to take away anyone's right to own a firearm, but to make sure legally owned guns are stored properly to best eliminate the possibility of a firearm getting into the wrong person's hands. Purposeful shootings and accidental shootings are both gun violence.

It's time to go past all the "thoughts and prayers" and pay attention to gun violence as a serious threat to communities, she said, and hospitals can play a vital role in attempting to stem the violence.

Media coverage of mass shooting events creates "a sense of hopelessness and fear" about gun violence across the country, Dr. Ranney said, noting the focus needs to be better directed where it's needed most by people who are in the best position to connect with people about important messaging  hospitals, healthcare systems and their associated community outreach programs.

Editor's note: The following responses have been lightly edited for clarity and brevity.

Question: What's the most important thing you want hospital leaders and clinicians to know about gun violence?

Dr. Megan Ranney: First, there needs to be an awareness that this is very much a health issue, not just after the mass shootings, but also in those everyday shootings that we see in every trauma center across the country. The community violence, which disproportionately affects Black and brown youth, hurts the victim, hurts the family and it hurts the community. And it causes a ripple effect that leads to more violence.

It is also a health issue when it comes to gun suicides. Hospitals need to realize these are deaths that rarely come through the doors of the hospital because they are so often fatal. But these are one of the most common types of gun deaths in this country. And this is where hospitals can play an important role.

Q: What role can hospitals play to stem gun violence before the wounded arrive in the emergency department?

MR: As healthcare practitioners, we are talking to patients who are depressed or suicidal. And so awareness of the gun suicides as a health issue is something that we can and should do.

Be aware, in your interactions with patients, of people who are at high risk of firearm injury. This would be parents, because kids find the firearm and unintentionally hurt themselves or someone else; people who are depressed or suicidal; people who are victims of domestic violence; people with substance use disorder; and people with post-traumatic stress.

With these high-risk patients, we should be asking them if they have access to a firearm and counseling them on safer storage. We have the ability to talk about how to keep a firearm out of the hands of someone who either doesn't know how to use it properly or who has an intention of hurting themselves or others.

This is the first thing that we can and should be doing today. And we do far too rarely.

Q: How can this be done without infringing on people's right to own a gun?

MR: It's possible to have these conversations in a way that's nonjudgmental, that creates an alliance with a patient and creates change. It's not about making a political statement. It's about trying to reduce harm. We counsel people about the benefits of wearing seatbelts and locking up poisons underneath the kitchen sink.

There's a big difference between having firearms that are stored properly and being part of a militia. There are ways in which we can reconcile our long-standing tradition of firearm ownership in this country.

So, making sure that the wrong people aren't able to get guns is a part of it. But the truth is that 40 percent of households have a firearm. So we have to make sure that those guns are stored safely and in a way that does not allow someone who has the intention to harm themselves or others to have access to that gun.

The leading source of guns used in gun deaths right now is guns that are improperly stored in cars. That's terrifying. These guns are being stolen and then used in gun crimes.

Just think about the suicides or one person that kills another person because they took their parking spot. This just has to stop. People have to think about gun safety differently. I really believe we can help our communities move into a different reality from the one we are living in now.

Q: How can hospitals start conversations that will move that needle?

MR: We must be active in trying to improve the community in which we are located. Trauma centers, in particular, are often in communities that have higher rates of violence. There's a lot that can be done outside of legislation to help decrease the cycle of violence.

One thing hospitals can do is hold violence intervention programs to help survivors as well as their families to heal after a gunshot wound. This helps them heal psychologically. Most important, it's a step on a path where their folks are less likely to get caught back in that cycle of violence.

We can absolutely tackle this problem if we work together. I can quote example after example through history of huge problems such as car crash deaths and HIV/AIDS that we solved by investing resources. We can also work on harm reduction education. We're not going to change it overnight, but we can shift it. If we don't do anything, of course, we're not going to change it. But it is possible to shift things over time.

In order to change the patterns of firearm injury and death in this country, we have to talk about more than stopping mass shootings. If we only concentrate on those, we're not going to get to the underlying drivers that are leading to this increase. We have to do it all.

Q: Gun violence is one of the top population health issues, along with chronic disease, substance addiction and abuse, mental health issues and lack of vaccinations. Would violence be the one you tackled first if you had the power to choose?

MR: Violence, mental health and substance use actually all go together. These issues are about the depths of despair people find themselves in. People have a lack of community, a lack of a support system, a lack of hope and a feeling of isolation. That's why we need to find classic teachable moments with our patients.

When someone comes into your healthcare system, there is a moment or a chance to talk to them about something that potentially impacts their health. We know that living in a house with a gun that is not properly stored increases the chance of gun deaths.

So we have to find a moment in those interactions to talk to people about what can be done better. We are trusted messengers in a position to find a teachable moment. When we know someone has COPD, we have no problem talking to them about stopping smoking, right? We need to do the same for gun violence.

Q: Can community outreach programs sponsored by hospitals play a part, too?

MR: Absolutely. Those community health programs are so effective. If you hold an event that includes private screenings, you can use that time as an entry point to have discussions about these other drivers of poor health, whether it is mental health, substance use or violence.

It's an entry point for people into a system that feels scary, discriminatory or inaccessible. The medical community provides one service, and it can serve as an entry point into others. They provide a tremendous opportunity to improve community as well as individual level health.
It's no secret that healthcare as an industry could do better at being proactive with quality and safety data.

Earlier this month, 13 leaders shared thoughts in NEJM Catalyst on how healthcare organizations can get more strategic around patient safety and quality improvement  an area that has seen renewed attention after COVID-19-related setbacks. Several themes emerged across leaders' responses, namely the need for more proactive approaches to mitigate risk and intervene, rather than reviewing and assessing harms after they occur.

University Hospitals nurses are leading the charge to do just that by embracing the adoption of artificial intelligence to make daily safety huddles more actionable. In March, the Cleveland-based health system announced it partnered with Edgility to implement a platform that automates the collection and analysis of data from multiple sources, including EHRs and medical devices. The technology identifies patterns and trends related to patient safety, which are provided in a summary level dashboard view, enabling staff to step in earlier and prevent harm when risks are identified.

Safety huddles were something that routinely came up during University Hospitals' nursing governance council meetings, leading to a deep dive into what type of information is shared during huddles and whether they actually support clinicians to intervene and prevent harm.

"The key gap was not always taking action on what was reported," Jennifer Gonzalez, MSN, APRN, clinical nurse specialist and magnet program director at University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, told Becker's. "Sharing information is really strong in the huddles, but when it comes to taking action on specific indicators, there's a true gap."

Nurses co-designed the tool with Edgility to work in any clinical criteria that could cause harm to patients or staff. The process to revamp safety huddles began before COVID-19, and the dashboard went live in 16 units at University Hospitals' academic medical center in February.

"We're early in that journey, but the breakthrough is the approach," said Peter Pronovost, MD, PhD, chief quality and clinical transformation officer at University Hospitals. The dashboard's ability to offer insight into risk and pair that with a risk reduction activity for staff to take is what makes the tool stand out from other uses of AI in the clinical setting.

Most examples of AI in the clinical space predict who is at risk but offer no potential interventions to reduce the risk, Dr. Pronovost said.

Healthcare has traditionally relied on retrospective data to guide quality and safety improvements. As University Hospitals continues to expand its use of AI to predict patient safety risks, it will be on par with industries such as aviation and shipping, which use real-time data with recommendations of next steps.

Take FedEx as an example.

"They map every step and if a box falls off the conveyor belt, they immediately know with real-time data, and there's a decision rule that says it will be put back on the conveyor belt in 10 seconds.  None of that exists in healthcare. Edgility brings that state-of-the art approach for the first time to healthcare," Dr. Pronovost said.

At minimum, the dashboard is reviewed twice a day: during the safety huddle and during shift changes. Eventually, the goal is for clinicians to be notified with alerts in real time.

Data is still being collected to determine what concrete improvements have been made, since the system went live only about two months ago. But already staff have said huddles are more efficient because they do not have to search for risk information. Among the usability data clinical teams have access to right now on units where the dashboard is in use is seeing how long a practice stayed on the board before someone takes action.

The nurse-led innovation component is a significant part of why leaders are so optimistic about the tool's potential.

"The work we're trying to do with nursing is making sure nurses and bedside clinicians are involved in creating these products," Ms. Gonzalez said.

That element is key to ensuring effectiveness and usability, leaders said.

"So many safety products are not used because they're not easy to use, but when you have the end users co-create it with the tech company, you get a much more impactful product," Dr. Pronovost said.
American Chamber of Commerce in Korea (AMCHAM) Chairman James Kim, front row third from left, and Personal Information Protection Commission Chairman Ko Hak-soo, front row fourth from left, pose with representatives from U.S. firms in Korea, during their meeting at Grand Hyatt Seoul, Tuesday. Courtesy of AMCHAM



By Park Jae-hyuk



Korea's top privacy regulator told representatives of U.S. companies in Korea, Tuesday, that authorities here are assessing how data pertaining to Korean users has been used for the development of ChatGPT, which has attracted global attention.



The comments were made by Personal Information Protection Commission (PIPC) Chairman Ko Hak-soo during a meeting with members of the American Chamber of Commerce in Korea (AMCHAM).



"We are not conducting an investigation at this moment toward ChatGPT," Ko said. "However, we are checking whether Korea's data has been used for ChatGPT's AI model building and how the data has blended in."



Ko told reporters last Friday that the government is communicating with OpenAI, the developer of the artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot, which said the number of the chatbot's users in Korea reached 2.2 million.



"We will continue to communicate with the company so that we can check whether the data of Korean citizens has been managed properly," he said at the press conference last week.



In order to help U.S. firms comply with Korea's privacy regulations, the PIPC chairman also shared major changes that have been made to the Personal Information Protection Act, during his meeting with AMCHAM members.



The revisions, which will take effect in September, include the improvement of personal information processing practices, the right to request the transfer of personal information, adjustment of the upper limit of fines to 3 percent of a company's total revenue, diversification of personal information transfer requirements and strengthened protection measures, the introduction of new standards for mobile video devices and alignment of online and offline regulations.



Ko also shared the PIPC's major achievements since its establishment as an independent government agency, including the imposition of a combined 100 billion won ($76 million) fine on Google and Meta Platforms in 2022.



Last September, the privacy regulator slapped a 69.2 billion won fine on Google and a 30.8 billion won fine on Meta for their collection of personal information without users' consent and using it for customized online ads and other purposes.



The two U.S. tech giants filed a lawsuit in February countering the fines.


Hospitals and health systems are embracing the gig economy to provide flexibility to nurses and fill staffing gaps, The Wall Street Journal reported April 18.

Take Mercy, a multistate health system based in Chesterfield, Mo., as an example. The health system, through a partnership with Trusted Health, has harnessed an employment model usually associated with ride-share services and food delivery and applied it to nursing. Mercy rolled out Mercy Works on Demand, an app and online platform that allows the health system's full- and part-time nurses  and other experienced nurses in the area  to easily pick up gig shifts. The health system launched a pilot program at Mercy Hospital Springfield (Mo.) and, in spring 2022, rolled out the on-demand platform across the health system.

Healthcare organizations such as Mercy saw the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on nurses. Some workers left their local hospital jobs to take travel nursing opportunities. Nurses were also struggling with effects on their physical and mental well-being, leading some to retire early or relinquish bedside positions. And now hospitals and health systems continue to grapple with shortages, although there have been signs of easing labor pressures. A National Council of State Boards of Nursing and National Forum of State Nursing Workforce Centers study released April 13 found that about 800,000 nurses intend to leave the workforce by 2027.

Embracing gig apps is one way hospitals and health systems are looking to provide flexibility and fill vacancies, according to The Wall Street Journal. This includes Renton, Wash.-based Providence and St. Louis-based SSM Health.

Providence added gig nurses last year and has filled 13,000 shifts for nurses and other medical roles, Mark Smith, who oversees workforce analysis, staffing and optimization for the organization, told The Wall Street Journal. He also told the publication the health system plans to expand gig work to 19 hospitals and nursing homes from 12.

SSM Health has launched various flexible nursing employment options. According to The Wall Street Journal, SSM Health uses two apps to offer premium pay and shifts to nurses. Staff at the health system are prohibited from picking up gig jobs for 12 to 18 months to avoid competing for its own workers, Seth Lovell, BSN, RN, SSM Health's vice president of nursing, told the publication.

While some organizations have joined the gig economy, others, such as Pittsburgh-based UPMC, have created in-house travel staffing programs to address shortages. UPMC launched its own temporary agency a year ago to attract and retain highly skilled nurses and surgical technologists.

Read the full report here.
Noones of Maghera is closing after nearly 90 years in business

A gift shop in Co Londonderry where generations of couples have placed their wedding lists is closing its doors after almost 90 years in business.

Noones of Maghera, which is also a hardware store and fuel supplier, was first established in the town as a grocers in 1936 by William and Betty Noone.

It was taken over by its present owners Pat and Kathleen McKaigue in 1996, with the couple carrying out a major refurbishment of the premises.

The business, which is understood to have around eight employees, has now announced on its Facebook page that it is closing.

Its statement says: It is with regret that Noones of Maghera has made the difficult decision to cease trading over the coming months.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all our stuff, customers and suppliers past and present who have stayed loyal to us through many years of trading.

Customers expressed their sadness at the move. One said: Sad times for Maghera. Noones of Maghera is a beautiful shop, lovely staff

So sorry for the staff, and for Maghera as a town.

The business said its closing down sale will start on April 24, with goods to have attractive discounts.

We hope to see many of our loyal customers visiting our store for the last time.

Its understood the retailers longest-serving staff have worked there for more than 20 years.

According to its latest company accounts for the year to March 2022, the business suffered a loss of 73,412 over the period, up from around 43,000 the year before.

It also had liabilities of 231,987, which were up from 158,575 the year before.

On its website, Noones describes itself as one of the few pre-war businesses which are still in operation in Maghera.

This underlines the progression, and continued trust our customers place in us.

A member of the McKaigue family has been contacted for comment.
In one of its most recent projects, Andras House plans to invest 10m in a project in Portrush, including at the former Londonderry Hotel on Main Street

Lord Rana has said the Good Friday Agreement freed business from the worries caused by the Troubles, including bombings and bomb scares. He tells the Belfast Telegraph that one of his properties was even bombed twice in the same day

The anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement has been a time of reflection for people in all walks of life in Northern Ireland.

For businesspeople, April 1998 ushered in a new era where they could operate unimpeded by bomb scares and bombings.

Instead an economic wasteland where battle-hardened journalists were the only frequent visitors, the accord gave business space to invest and eventually help transform Belfast into a tourist destination.

But Lord Diljit Rana (84), the founder of hotel and property business Andras House, also recalls life before the outbreak of The Troubles.

The business now has 10 hotels and tourist apartment blocks, most recently buying Coleraines Premier Inn Hotel.

Lord Rana had emigrated to England from India in 1963 before coming here three years later.

Talking to Business Telegraph from Punjab where a charitable trust to promote education bears his name, Lord Rana says: In 1966 Belfast was a very peaceful place with no sign of any troubles and no indication of what was coming. So I bought one restaurant in Victoria Square where the shopping centre is now. Thats how how I started in Belfast.

Within the subsequent four years, I acquired another four restaurants, so the business was doing very well. It was flourishing. The Belfast Telegraph did a full page spread on me because I was a new phenomenon in Northern Ireland.

Sams Snack Bar, the first restaurant, was going so well that Lord Rana extended its opening hours.

It then became very popular. Back then Belfast had so many dance halls and discos and when those businesses closed at about 1am, we were the only place they could get some food so they came to us.

The Windsor Restaurant behind City Hall, Aldergate House on University Road and The Burlington on Dublin Road followed.

But things were to change almost overnight.

They were all doing well until internment was declared in August 1971. Then all hell broke loose. There was bombing, shooting and damage  it all went into high gear after internment was declared.

Lord Rana with then-Economy Minister Nigel Dodds in 2008, ahead of a trade mission to India

The Burlington was bombed in December that year. The other ones just lost business because Belfast was like a ghost town after 6pm. There was hardly a sinner in the city centre. It was totally vacated so there were no customers.

That left him in a quandary. I was left totally penniless. I had a bank loan, a mortgage and a big house to keep in Marlborough Park Belfast but we somehow survived.

He and his wife acquired a bomb-damaged shop in Queens Arcade in the city centre.

I acquired the goodwill, fittings and fixtures for 500. Luckily my wife had saved some money and that came in useful. We fitted it out ourselves and opened it in August 1972. It was a difficult period in the city centre because every day there were bombs or bomb scares but we somehow struggled on.

With other people nervous of the city centre, he was able to acquire three more shops and as he puts it, was soon dabbling in property.

My bank manager was very understanding and lent me some more money and I bought four properties on Lisburn Road. I refurbished them and that gave me some rental income though not much, and some cash flow, even though there was no profit.

He bought another large building on Great Victoria Street. I bought that and converted the ground floor into Indian and Chinese restaurants which we rented to others.

Those businesses benefited from the popularity of the nearby Grand Opera House.

I tested the water for others. Along Great Victoria Street and Dublin Road there were so many restaurants it became known as the Golden Mile of Belfast, which I helped initiate.

Despite the volatility of the time, he decided to build a hotel in the city centre in Blackstaff Square, which opened in 1990. The Belfast Plaza Hotel was the first new hotel to open in the city centre for 20 years.

It was bombed many times. But like The Windmill Theatre in London during the Second World War, our motto was, we never closed.

He says he was always prepared to speak out about the impact of the bombings. I was a prominent businessman and president of the Chamber of Trade. As an outsider and an Indian, I was popular with the news media and did a lot of interviews talking positively, which the IRA didnt like.

They had bombed the hotel in November, December 1991, then bombed it again in June 1992, twice in a day.

He recalls searching the property with security forces and making the chilling discovery of a device inside a plywood box under a black leather sofa. Those were the times we lived in.

While battling the effects of the Troubles on his business, he was involved behind the scenes in bringing warring factions together, beginning after the Anglo-Irish Agreement was signed in 1985.

The unionist politicians felt very aggrieved and felt they were being sold out. Then Tom King came as Secretary of State. All over there were slogans and posters saying Belfast says no to Anglo-Irish Agreement. One day Tom King went to City Hall and he was jostled by the unionist politicians so he was quite shaken.

He recalls an approach by Mr Kings adviser John McConnell. He said, Diljit, you should do something about it. Call Tom King and some of the unionist politicians for dinner at your home.

Lord Rana says he duly issued an invitation to his home for dinner. There was a total confidentiality, nobody taking notes, nobody taking any pictures, so that dinner was successful and broke the ice between the unionists and British administration.

The process continued, with Mr McConnell issuing Lord Rana with a list of potential guests from the republican and unionist sides, as well as businesspeople and civil servants.

They were people who otherwise would not meet each other but in an Indian home over dinner it was a cordial time.

In one of its most recent projects, Andras House plans to invest 10m in a project in Portrush, including at the former Londonderry Hotel on Main Street

His business grew accustomed to bombings and bomb scares but violence also crossed his own threshold.

One night in about 1984 gunmen overtook my family and house. I was running a restaurant on Lisburn Road and when I got home after midnight they were holding my late wife Uma and our boys Rajesh and Romesh.

It was terrifying but Uma was a real lady and kept talking to them and kept calm.

Eventually they locked us all in a broom cupboard and took our car and whatever money and jewellery there was.

You wouldnt wish it on your worst enemy. What we tolerated in Belfast was unbelievable somehow we survived. But the question is now, whats going to happen in future if the DUP keep boycotting any suggestion of a deal. Thats worrying.

But he feels there was much to celebrate as a result of the Good Friday Agreement. It was a great success and I still feel its a great success.

What it felt like, I can only describe as if you are partially blind, but you learn to live with it and youre coping with life.

Then somebody does an operation on your eyes and your eyesight is restored. That was the difference before and after the Agreement.

Before the agreement and when I had the businesses in the city centre, you didnt know when youd close the shop or the restaurant, whether that building would still be there tomorrow or you would be there or not. We lived on day to day, not knowing what the future holds for us. There was bombings but also bomb scares but they did as much damage as the real bombing.

In one month Belfast Plaza Hotel received 80 hoax calls.

Its now a different story. Now my company has 10 hotels in Northern Ireland. Before the Good Friday Agreement we had three. They were Belfast Plaza Hotel, Holiday Inn Express on University Street, which opened in 1996, and Renshaws on Botanic Avenue.

After the Good Friday Agreement we opened others like the Belfast Crowne Plaza, the Holiday Inn at Hope Street and the Hampton by Hilton. We have recently acquired two other hotels, one in Coleraine and one in Portrush.

For business, peace and stability is essential, and because of that, the economy in Northern Ireland flourished. Tourism particularly has flourished but people once thought I was mad building hotels in that situation where buildings were being blown up,.

Now there are several hotels in Belfast, its a thriving tourist destination and a popular weekend destination.

In 2019, we had about 5.3 million tourists coming to NI. For a small place like NI to have about three times its population coming from tourism is a great achievement.

Hes proud to have received an OBE in 2020 for his contribution to economic regeneration and developing tourism.

Looking back, he says: Belfast is a totally transformed place to how it was in 1970s, 1980s and 1990s.

So its a pity to see the present impasse between the DUP and Sinn Fein over the NI Protocol and Windsor Framework.
Apple CEO Tim Cook, right, reacts after seeing an old Macintosh Classic machine brought by a visitor during the opening of the first Apple flagship store in Mumbai (Rafiq Maqbool/AP)   Rafiq Maqbool

Apple has opened its first flagship store in India in a move that highlights the companys aspirations to expand in a country which it hopes to turn into a manufacturing hub.

Chief executive Tim Cook posed for photos with a few of the 100 or so Apple fans who had lined up outside the sprawling 20,000sq ft store in Indias financial capital, Mumbai. The shops design inspired by the iconic black-and-yellow cabs unique to the city.

A second store will open on Thursday in the national capital, New Delhi.

India has such a beautiful culture and an incredible energy, and were excited to build on our long-standing history, Mr Cook said in a statement earlier.

Apple CEO Tim Cook and senior vice president of retail Deirdre OBrien wave to dozens of people waiting outside the store (Rafiq Maqbool/AP)   Rafiq Maqbool

The tech giant has been operating in India for more than 25 years, selling its products through authorised retailers and the website it launched a few years ago. But regulatory hurdles and the pandemic delayed its plans to open a flagship store.

The stores are a clear signal of the companys commitment to invest in India, the second-largest smartphone market in the world where iPhone sales have been ticking up steadily, said Jayanth Kolla, analyst at Convergence Catalyst, a tech consultancy.

The stores show how much India matters to the present and the future of the company, he added.

For the California-based company, Indias sheer size makes the market especially encouraging.

About 600 million of Indias 1.4 billion people have smartphones, which means the market is still under-penetrated and the growth prospect is huge, said Neil Shah, vice president of research at technology market research firm Counterpoint Research.

Mr Cook poses for a selfie with a woman (Rafiq Maqbool/AP)   Rafiq Maqbool

Between 2020 and 2022, the Silicon Valley company has gained some ground in the smartphone market in the country, going from about 2% to 6%, according to Counterpoint data.

Still, the iPhones hefty price tag puts it out of reach for the majority of Indians.

Instead, iPhone sales in the country have thrived among the sliver of upper-middle-class and rich Indians with disposable incomes, a segment of buyers that Mr Shah says is rising.

In September, Apple announced it would start making its iPhone 14 in India. The news was hailed as a win for Prime Minister Narendra Modis government, which has pushed for ramping up local manufacturing ever since he came to power in 2014.

Apple first began manufacturing from India in 2017 with its iPhone SE and has since continued to assemble a number of iPhone models from the country.

People take selfies inside as others watch as they wait for their turn to enter the Apple store (Rafiq Maqbool/AP)   Rafiq Maqbool

Most of Apples smartphones and tablets are assembled by contractors with factories in China but the company started looking at potentially moving some production to south-east Asia or other places after repeated shutdowns to fight Covid-19 disrupted its global flow of products.

Big companies got a jolt, they realised they needed a back-up strategy outside of China  they couldnt risk another lockdown or any geopolitical rift affecting their business, said Mr Kolla.

Currently, India makes close to 13 million iPhones every year, up from less than 5 million three years ago, according to Counterpoint Research. This is about 6% of iPhones made globally and only a small slice in comparison to China, which still produces around 90% of them.

Last week, Indias commerce minister Piyush Goyal said the government was in regular touch with Apple to support their business and that the company had plans to have 25% of their global production come out of India in the next five years.

The challenge for Apple, according to Mr Shah of Counterpoint, is that the raw materials are still coming from outside India so the tech company will need to either find a local supplier or bring their suppliers, based in countries like China, Japan and Taiwan, closer to drive up production.

For Apple, everything is about timing. They dont enter a market with full flow until they feel confident about their prospects. They can see the opportunity here today  its a win-win situation, Mr Shah said.
FinTrU  192

Just six years ago Darragh McCarthy told this business journalist of his ambitious plans to grow his financial outsourcing business to a 1,000-strong company in a handful of years.

In the years since, that ambition has been more than realised  FinTrU now boasting a workforce in excess of 1,200 with sites across Ireland, the UK and now in to Portugal.

FinTru works with some of the worlds biggest investment banks and has continued on a substantial upwards trajectory.

It comes in at the number 192 spot in this years Next 200 list with a turnover of 29.7m, according to accounts for FinTrU Ltd ending December 2021.

During that period it posted pre-tax profits of 4.2m.

In October last year it was revealed the firm was growing its international reach and opening a base in Porto and creating 500 new roles. Its been approved as a project of national strategic interest by Portugals Institute for Employment and Vocational Training (IEFP).

Its understood the 500 new roles are to be created in the next five years.

The company broke the 1,000 employee mark earlier in 2022 and also announced it would be setting up another new base, this time in Letterkenny, creating around 300 jobs.

FinTrU works with tier one investment banks across the globe, offering services such as regulation, legal, compliance and know your customer (KYC).

As FinTrU continues to grow its international investment bank client portfolio, we see this expansion of our global footprint as a very important step in our company journey, Darragh McCarthy, speaking at the time, said.

Founder Darragh McCarthy, who hails from Co Cork, began his financial life on the trading floors of London and New York, and formerly worked for Morgan Stanley.

He incorporated German into his degree, studying at University College Dublin, as a means of getting into burgeoning European markets.

And his first exposure to finance was with an options firm in Frankfurt. He then came back to UCD and wanted to work in investment banking. In 1994, he started working with investment banking giant Morgan Stanley in London.

During his almost 20 years with the firm, Darragh was working in sales, spending a lot of his time selling to German clients.

He was also chief operating officer for Europe, Middle East and Africa. He set up FinTrU at the end of 2013.

Since then, the job announcements and wins have followed. In February this year FinTru announced it was creating 300 new jobs as part of a major 20m investment in its Londonderry base.

The firm, which has its main office in Belfast, could double the size of its Derry workforce to around 600 by 2027.

That latest expansion will eventually see FinTrU growing its workforce to around 1,500 staff.

Its a significant step which will see FinTrU grow to over 1,500 employees in Northern Ireland and significantly increase our competitiveness, catapulting us into a new era of business growth, Darragh said.

FinTrU is celebrating its 10th birthday in 2023 and the north west holds a special place in the heart of our business. Since making our first investment in Derry in 2018, we have been blown away by the talent and were able to surpass our initial jobs target one year ahead of schedule.

Following the announcement of our Letterkenny site last year, our newest investment is a demonstration of our ongoing commitment to develop and champion the north west region and our staff who have helped us to grow here.

Invest NI has been a vital partner in enabling our impressive growth to date and also in securing the long-term sustainability of our operations in both Derry and Belfast.
The episodes depiction of people voting for peace has been nominated in the Memorable Moment category.

The finale of Derry Girls has been nominated for a BAFTA award

The finale of hit Channel 4 show Derry Girls depicting the people of Northern Ireland voting for the Good Friday Agreement has been nominated for a BAFTA award.

The scene heads up a shortlist of six nominees drawn by BAFTA Television Awards headline sponsor P&O Cruises for the Memorable Moment Award.

Lisa McGees hit show ran for three series between 2018 and 2022, with the show culminating in a depiction of the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, which marks its 25th anniversary this year.

The P&O Cruises Memorable Moment Award honours the impact of television in the UK and its power to entertain, inform and bring the nation together  looking back at key moments from 2022 that inspired and moved audiences at home.

Among the moments nominated alongside Derry Girls is BBC Ones Platinum Jubilee: Party at the Palace moment which saw the duffle-coat-wearing bear offer the late monarch a marmalade sandwich from his hat during a cream tea at Buckingham Palace.

Read more Derry Girls Siobhan McSweeney blown away to learn Martin Scorsese is fan

The Queen responded by revealing she also loves marmalade sandwiches, and keeps an emergency stash in her handbag "for later".

Also in contention is the scene from Netflix series Stranger Things in which the cast rescue Max from the demonic Vecna by playing her favourite song, Kate Bush's Running Up That Hill.

Sir Mo Farah revealing he was illegally trafficked to the UK during a BBC One documentary also makes the shortlist, while The Traitors on BBC One features for its final roundtable, as does Nick and Charlie's first kiss in cult Netflix series Heartstopper.

The nominees were chosen by an independent jury of national media experts, overseen by Sara Putt, Bafta's television committee chair and deputy chair of its board of trustees.

Emma Baehr, executive director of awards and content at Bafta, said: "The six moments we're sharing today capture what Bafta stands for: creativity, innovation, and authenticity.

"The Memorable Moment Award spotlights the unforgettable scenes of the last year that truly resonated and inspired viewers at home, showcasing the impact of television."

Votes for the P&O Cruises Memorable Moment can be made online via bafta.org/moment.

Voting will close at midday on May 2 and the winner will be announced at the Bafta Television Awards on May 14.

The ceremony will air on BBC One and iPlayer from 7pm.
Kate Garraway has praised Sir Elton John for his kindness and support after he dedicated a song to her husband Derek Draper during his show at Londons O2 Arena.

The Good Morning Britain presenters husband fell seriously ill with Covid-19 in March 2020 and has suffered long-lasting damage to his organs and requires daily care.

Garraway has since created two documentaries detailing her familys life as former political adviser Draper battles the long-term effects.

Sir Elton John performs at the O2 Arena (Ian West/PA)   Ian West

On Monday, the couple and their two children, Darcey and Billy, were invited to be Sir Eltons guests of honour at his Farewell Yellow Brick Road concert.

Garraway told Smooth Radio: Right up to the last minute, I wasnt sure if it would be possible to get Derek there.

It took weeks of planning and just days before, it looked like he would be too sick to attend. Even on the journey there, he seemed so weak.

But as soon as we got into the stadium and Elton went on stage, he started weeping tears of joy, and squeezed my hand so tightly.

Garraway said her husband refused to wear ear defenders for an hour so he could hear the music but at one point it seemed it might be all too much for him and he started shaking.

She continued: His nurses and I took him outside the hall to let him have a moment to stretch and relax in the dark and silence.

After a while, I asked him if it was time to go and he said, No, want to go back, so we gave him ear defenders to reduce the stimulation and wheeled him back to the concert.

It must have been fate as that was the exact moment Elton suddenly dedicated Dont Let The Sun Go Down On Me to Derek and his journey.

During the dedication, Sir Elton said the couple had been through hell and described them as inspiring.

He added: To say theyve been through a lot is an understatement theyve never given up. Im so thrilled theyre here, I cant believe they are here.

Garraway said: We were all in tears, the kids, Derek and even the nurses. It was completely unexpected.

People around us were so lovely and started clapping which was an extraordinary moment we will all treasure forever and Elton made it possible.

Derek has been stuck at home for so long, so for him to experience that joy and be part of so many peoples amazing evening was just magical.

Garraway said Draper had been exhausted since the concert and was back in hospital for treatment.

She added: But his spirit is lifted and well always have that special moment as a family, whatever the future holds.

I cant thank Elton and David enough. They are such kind people and have been so supportive to us all over the last three years.

We have been surrounded by so much kindness from people everywhere. It really keeps us going through the hard times. Were just bursting with gratitude.
Curing the embarrassment around common ailments

Some health problems may be difficult to talk about. Lorraine Wylie examines five widespread conditions we often prefer to ignore, and what can be done to help

Minor ailments can have an impact   Getty Images/iStockphoto

Lorraine Wylie Belfast Telegraph Tue 18 Apr 2023 at 07:00
POSCO International CEO and Vice Chairman Jeong Tak, right, poses with Lithuania's Minister of Transport and Communications Marius Skuodis at Grand Central in Seoul, Monday. The company said Tuesday that Jeong asked for Lithuania's support for Busan's bid to host World Expo 2030. They also discussed ways to use the Port of Klaipeda for stable export of grain from Ukraine. Courtesy of POSCO International
Two men are to stand trial for the murder of Irish crime boss Robbie Lawlor, a judge ordered today.

Adrian Holland, 39, and Patrick Teer, 48, are jointly accused of involvement in a plot which led to the gangland figures killing in north Belfast four years ago.

Lawlor, 36, was shot dead in broad daylight outside Holland's home at Etna Drive in the Ardoyne area on April 4, 2020.

The killing formed part of a violent drugs dispute between rival criminal factions with connections to Drogheda, Dublin and Sligo.

Neither Holland nor Teer, from Thornberry Hill in Belfast, are suspected of being the gunman.

Adrian 'Aidy' Holland

Instead, they have both been charged with the murder as part of a joint enterprise with unidentified others.

The pair, who are currently remanded in custody, face further counts of conspiracy to murder and possessing a 9mm self-loading pistol with intent to endanger life.

They appeared together at Belfast Magistrates Court today via video-link from Maghaberry Prison for a preliminary enquiry hearing.

Defence lawyers disputed claims there is sufficient prima facie evidence to prosecute their clients.

Barrister Joe Brolly, for Holland, said: We do not accept that there is a case to answer, but we will not be making any submissions (at this stage)."

He indicated that a legal bid to have the prosecution halted will instead be mounted when it reaches the Crown Court.

During the brief hearing Holland and Teer confirmed they understood the charges.

When asked if they wanted to call any witnesses or give evidence, both men replied: Not at this time.

Granting the Public Prosecution Services application, District Judge Steven Keown told the pair: You will be returned for trial at Belfast Crown Court on a date to be fixed.

He agreed to certify for senior and junior counsel to represent each defendant due to the seriousness of the charges.
A Londonderry man accused of disorderly behaviour at bar at Belfast International airport was today ordered to appear in court or face arrest.

Christopher Villa (33) was due to appear at Antrim Magistrates Court, sitting in Ballymena.

But defence counsel Hollie Lynch said there had been an administrative miscommunication with Villa telling his legal team he was due in court but the court service failing to confirm it.

Villa, from Ballyarnett Village in Derry, is accused of disorderly behaviour at the Lagan Bar in Belfast International Airport and of assaulting a woman on March 25, this year.

While a police officer said she believed she could connect Villa to each of the charges, a prosecuting lawyer confirmed the paperwork was only filed late last night.

Adjourning the case for a week, Deputy District Judge Chris Holmes warned that Villa had missed a bench warrant by the skin of his teeth but that come next Tuesday, he better be here.
A man has been jailed for drunkenly stripping off in front of other customers in a Belfast bar.

Nilesh Dingare was asleep and naked from the waist down when police arrived at the pub on the citys Dublin Road.

The 45-year-old was sentenced to one month in custody after pleading guilty to indecent behaviour.

Belfast Magistrates Court heard officers were called to The Points Bar on Saturday, March 25 this year amid reports that a man was naked on the premises.

Prosecution counsel said: He was observed entering the bar and removing his shoes, trousers and underwear.

A number of other patrons and staff were present at the time.

Police discovered Dingare lying on a bench, semi-naked and apparently sleeping.

A number of customers had left the bar in distress, the prosecutor added.

Read more Belfast man stabbed sisters boyfriend with potato peeler

Dingare, with an address on the Dublin Road, is understood to be an Indian national who was visiting Northern Ireland.

Defence solicitor Joe Hackett told the court his client had separated from his wife and been drinking heavily at the time of the incident.

It was more a case of being intoxicated and lying naked, no members of the public (made statements of complaint), he stressed.

With the prosecution withdrawing a separate charge of exposure, District Judge Steven Keown ordered Dingare to serve one month in prison for the indecent behaviour.
A Co Down man is to stand trial accused of breaching a ban on further involvement in the sex trade.

Martin Heaney, formerly of Maypole Park in Dromore, appeared at Belfast Crown Court for an arraignment hearing via video-link from Maghaberry Prison.

Dressed in a grey sweat top and blue jeans, the 60-year-old confirmed to the court he could hear the proceedings.

He entered not guilty pleas to five counts of flouting a Slavery and Trafficking Prevention Order (STPO) imposed on July 20, 2022.

Three of the charges state that on July 23, 2022, Heaney allegedly accessed a website the purposes of which are advertising in person sexual services.

Read more Martin Heaney to stand trial for alleged breaches of slavery and trafficking prevention order

He is further accused of failing to provide the PSNI with the details of a sim card number and failing to provide police with the serial number of a mobile phone in his possession.

Defence barrister Peter Coiley told Judge Philip Gilpin that Heaney was challenging two further counts of his alleged involvement with an enterprise operating in the UK that engages females for the purpose of sexual gratification of others.

A No Bill hearing will be held next week to determine whether Heaney has a case to answer on those charges.

Heaney was made the subject of a seven year STPO at Craigavon Crown Court in July last year.

The former taxi driver received a five-year prison sentence for a series of offences against vulnerable and exploited young women.

Due to time already served on remand, Heaney was released on licence at that stage.

The order included a prohibition on working in the sex trade or accessing any sites advertising personal sexual services.

Within days he was arrested by police at his hostel accommodation on the Ormeau Road in south Belfast for allegedly breaching the banning order.

Judge Gilpin set the trial date for June 20, 2023 and Heaney was remanded back into custody.
Family and friends of the late journalist will gather this evening in her memory

Nichola Corner at the mural in honour of her sister, Lyra McKee. Picture by Kelvin Boyes/Press Eye

Journalist Lyra McKee caught the imagination of young people in Northern Ireland, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has said on the fourth anniversary of her death.

Ms McKee died after being shot in the head during clashes between rioters and police in the Creggan area of Derry on April 18, 2019.

She was filming the riots on her phone and standing next to a police vehicle when she was shot. Police believe the gunman was aiming at officers.

In a statement issued by Downing Street, Mr Sunak said: Today, we remember Lyra McKee, a journalist who caught the imagination of young people in Northern Ireland.

"In strongly rejecting sectarianism, she embodied the Northern Ireland that I see today - one of realising a better Northern Ireland than what had come before her.

"We stand united against the insidious ideology of those who stole her dreams and what she could have gone on to contribute.

It comes as family and friends of journalist Lyra McKee prepare to gather this evening at a mural painted in her memory to mark her anniversary.

The event, organised by a number of LGBTQIA+ support groups, will take place at Ms McKees mural on Kent Street in Belfast city centre at 7pm this evening.

Family and friends of the late journalist will come together to recall Lyra herself and some of her writing.

Queerspace NI, one of the groups organising the event, tweeted details on Tuesday afternoon.

"This evening, from 7, we will be standing at Lyra's mural, with her family, friends and loved ones to remember her with love and fondness. Please come join us, they said.

Tributes have also been paid to Ms McKee online throughout the day, with former NI Secretary of State Julian Smith, who was appointed to the role shortly after her death, describing it as a stark reminder.

"Thinking of Lyra McKee today & of Nichola and Sara & of Joan. A stark reminder of the tragedy of lives lost in Northern Ireland as we recognise the huge gains of the Good Friday Agreement, he tweeted.

Dunja Mijatovic, the Commissioner for Human Rights of the Council of Europe, said investigations into her death should be completed quickly.

"Today marks the 4th anniversary of the killing of journalist Lyra McKee, she said.

"My thoughts are with her family during this difficult time. Ongoing investigations should be completed effectively and rapidly to bring those responsible to justice.

Lyra McKee

Journalist and lecturer Leona ONeill, who was present when Ms McKee was killed, said she wanted to ensure her name was never forgotten.

"Remembering Lyra McKee today, four years on from her murder. I didnt know her in life, I was just there when she was killed, she said.

"I felt helpless that night, but I vow to ensure her name is always spoken, that our young journalists coming up know who she was and what she was about.

"Every new semester I ask incoming students why they want to be journalists. So many of them say Lyra McKee inspired them.

"I think that is so beautiful. Her name is spoken often in my classrooms. A fierce, shining light like that can't be extinguished, not even by death.

The International Press Institute (IPI), a global network for independent media, also commemorated her anniversary.

"IPI today commemorates the four-year anniversary of the killing of Northern Irish journalist Lyra McKee, who was shot dead as she reported from the scene of a riot, they said.

"As we honour her life and work, we renew our call for all those responsible to be held accountable.

Last month, two men charged with Ms McKees murder entered not guilty pleas at Belfast Crown Court.

Derry men Peter Cavanagh (34) from Elmwood Terrace and Jordan Devine (22) from Bishop Street, were both charged with the murder, replying not guilty when the charge was put to them at the hearing in March.

Mr Justice OHara said a trial was likely to take place in the autumn.
Judge quashes decision to voluntarily remove recall scandal neurologist Michael Watt from medical register, branding the process as a fiasco

The courage of victims of disgraced Dr Michael Watt has been praised after a judicial review confirmed he is to face a fitness to practise hearing.

Yesterday a High Court judge described the process allowing him to be removed from the medical register as a fiasco.

Mr Justice McAlinden made the assessment in his written judgment following a successful bid to overturn the decision to grant Dr Watt voluntary erasure.

The decision by the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service (MPTS) was made in private.

It meant there would be no public scrutiny of the work of the former neurologist, and a scheduled fitness to practise hearing was dropped.

Two former patients challenged the decision in a judicial review, which last month found MPTS had acted without jurisdiction.

In his scathing judgment, Mr Justice McAlinden described the fixing of a date for a hearing to determine voluntary erasure an exercise in corner-cutting that the MPT had no power to adopt.

He added: It would appear that Dr Watts representatives were either unaware of the jurisdictional restrictions or, alternately, were aware of them, but were deliberately attempting to flout those jurisdictional restrictions in order to have a third VE application heard by the MPT.

And in a damning assessment, he said: At all times, the GMC (General Medical Council) and MPTS must never lose sight of the primary objective of protecting, promoting, and maintaining the health, safety and well-being of the public...

In this instance, I consider that both bodies clearly lost sight of that primary objective.

Claire McKeegan from Phoenix Law, representing Danielle ONeill, said: She is a harmed patient and should not have to take difficult and stressful legal proceedings to remind bodies which are tasked by Parliament to protect the public of their duties.

Ms McKeegan said a fitness to practise hearing must now proceed at the earliest opportunity.

Alliance Health spokesperson Paula Bradshaw said: No words can do justice to the suffering inflicted by this scandal over many years, and to the courage demonstrated by the victims of it in ensuring the truth of what occurred must be made public.

Last June the Independent Neurology Inquiry found numerous failures meant opportunities to address issues in the work of Dr Watt were missed for many years and on multiple occasions.

The inquiry was set up to examine the biggest recall of patients in Northern Ireland.

The care of more than 5,000 former patients of Dr Watt was reviewed.

The report said: While one process or system failure may not be critical, the synergistic effect of numerous failures ensured that a problem with an individual doctors practice was missed for many years...

The GMC said: Patients of Dr Michael Watt have suffered immense harm and our thoughts are with them and their families.

Following a High Court decision to quash Dr Michael Watts voluntary erasure and reinstate him on the medical register, we took immediate action by referring him to an interim orders tribunal at the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service.

On 21 March the interim orders tribunal imposed a 12-month suspension on Dr Watt, preventing him from practising, while our fitness to practise proceedings are ongoing. This means he cannot practise medicine.

We are assessing the judgment in detail, and it would not be appropriate to comment further at this stage.

The Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service said: We note the judges decision to quash Dr Watts voluntary erasure and we will consider the judgment carefully for learning points that impact future tribunal decision-making.
A renowned Northern Ireland climber who died while descending from one of the worlds highest peaks was a legend who lived for the mountains, his sister has said.

Noel Hanna (56) passed away overnight after summiting the 8,091 metre Annapurna peak in western Nepal.

One of Irelands best known climbers, Mr Hanna, from Dromara, had scaled Mount Everest 10 times.

In 2018, he became the first person from the island of Ireland to successfully summit and descend K2.

The circumstances of his death were unclear, Nepalese officials said.

Mingma Sherpa, chairman at Seven Summit Treks, said Mr Hanna breathed his last in Camp IV last night, adding: His body has been brought down and flown to Kathmandu.

Irene Hunter told the BBC that her brother "loved a view and he just loved people" and that he was "a legend".

She said he "lived for the mountains", adding that her brother's body would be returning to Finnis, close to the Mourne Mountains, where he began his climbing career.

Pat Falvey, Mr Hannas friend and fellow mountaineer, told RTE while details were scant, it was believed he died after returning from the mountains summit.

I got a text in from my people in Kathmandu... which said that Noel had passed away, he said.

He was one of the most amazing climbers, not in Ireland alone, but in the world.

His love and passion was about climbing big mountains.

It was, as a friend of mine once quoted, his cathedral  it was where he went to pray.

DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson led tributes to Mr Hanna, saying it was devastating news.

I had the privilege of meeting Noel and hearing about his mountain-climbing exploits, including his conquest of Everest, he added.

Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and his fellow mountaineers at this sad time.

Mourne Mountain Adventures said: There is some peace in that he spent his last moments doing what he loved best.

Such a great man and one of Northern Irelands finest mountaineers.

Renowned Northern Irish mountain climber Noel Hanna

Read more Noel Hanna: Remembering NI bodyguard turned world famous climber who scaled Everest and K2

The Northern Ireland Duke of Edinburgh Award society also paid tribute.

It said: Noel and his wife Lynne presented Gold Awards for DofE on a number of occasions and in 2012 Noel took a DofE flag to the top of Everest.

"Noel scaled Everest 10 times and he and Lynne were the first married couple to scale Everest from both the North and South sides.

"Noels down to earth manner and incredible expertise were an inspiration to everyone he met.

SDLP councillor Laura Devlin said the community was devastated.

This is awful news to wake to. Noel was an absolute gentleman who I first met away back, she said.

Ms Devlin added: To say he was an athlete was an understatement. He was an incredible climber who climbed Everest many, many times.

Noel was such an interesting person with so much life experience and always up for a chat.

This news is devastating. I am thinking of Lynne and all their family and friends.

Alliance MLA Sorcha Eastwood said it was absolutely tragic and desperately sad news.

She described Mr Hanna as a true mountain man, athlete and adventurer who was renowned the world over for his ability, passion, enthusiasm and zest for life.

He gave generously of his time, supporting many charities but graciously gave his support to many young climbers and mountaineers, Ms Eastwood added.

His heart was truly never far from the mountains of Slieve Croob, his homeplace and he was the best ambassador for Northern Ireland, embodying our spirit of adventure and generosity.

My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Hanna family circle at this difficult time, the community of Dromara who have lost a very special son and the wider mountaineering community whom he so loved.

Sinn Fein MP Chris Hazzard said it was tragic news, adding that his thoughts are with Mr Hannas family.

In a 2019 interview with Sunday Life, Mr Hanna acknowledged the perils of taking on climbing challenges.

You know when you go away there is a chance youre not coming back but thats just the way we live and if you were to think about that every time you went out the door, then theres no point really living life, he said.

Recalling how he served as a police officer during the Troubles, he added: In my job (in the RUC), you would have gone to car accidents or incidents or shootings and things like that and, yes, at the time you thought it was awful, but its the same as climbing, you come across bodies on the mountain, you see people falling down past you, and you just have to think about how lucky you are in life and hope that some day thats not you.

And as someone said, the only thing we are sure of is dying.

Ever since I was young, Ive always felt that since the day you are born, theres a nick in the calendar when you are going to die.

And should you live life to the extreme, or should you not go out the door, lightning will strike the house and you will get killed in the house, and thats been my motto for living life to the full.

Annapurna is the 10th highest mountain in the world at 8,091 metres (26,545 ft) above sea level.

It is well known for the difficulty and danger involved in its ascent.

At least 365 people have climbed Annapurna and more than 72 have died on the mountain, hiking officials said.

Earlier this week, Indian climber Baljeet Kaur went missing near Camp IV while descending from the summit point, organisers said. On Tuesday, it emerged she had been found alive. An aerial search mission was launched after she sent a radio signal asking for immediate help.

A third climber, Anurag Maloo, went missing after falling from 6,000m into a crevasse while descending from Camp IV.
The East Antrim MP used an Early Day Motion to congratulate the side on their recent Premiership title.

The club won the first ever title in their 134-year history after beating Crusaders 2-0 at Seaview on Friday night and Mr Wilson used an Early Day Motion in the House of Commons to congratulate the club on their achievement.

Early Day Motions (EDMs) are used in the Commons to put on record the views of individual MPs or to draw attention to specific events or campaigns

Mr Wilson said the success was a great source of civic pride for the people of Larne.

"This House congratulates Larne FC on its amazing achievement of moving from the bottom of the second tier to becoming NIFL Premiership Champions in 2022/23, he said.

Read more Larne legend Jeff Hughes hails the influence of owner Kenny Bruce

"[The House] notes that this is the first time in the clubs 134 year history that they have become champions; building on their successive victories in the County Antrim Shield.

"[The House] observes the civic pride which the clubs successes have generated in the town of Larne; welcomes the way in which sport has transformed the town through the sporting academy for young players.

"[The House] thanks Kenny Bruce MBE who wanted to give something back to the town where he grew up by investing resources and financing improvements at the club.

The clubs win marks the first time in 21 years the trophy has left Belfast  Portadown were the last provincial side to lift it back in 2002.
Michael Collins may have been killed by a bullet from the British ship. Photo: Independent News And Media/Getty Images   Getty Images

Liam Neeson as Michael Collins in Neil Jordan's film of the same name

A jacket that Liam Neeson wore in a play at Dublins Olympia Theatre in 1981 will be going up for auction in May.

Ian Whyte, chairperson of Whytes Auction House in Dublin, revealed the jacket would be going on sale with Neesons blessing in an RTE interview on Sunday.

Weve a jacket that Liam Neeson wore in a play in the Olympia Theatre back in 1981, he said.

The play was called The Hostage, and the jacket was donated by costumer Bourkes, which used to supply costumes to plays and films during that period.

Liam Neeson himself confirmed it was his, and not only that but he signed the program for the play and a poster.

Its been donated to the Hospice Foundation so thats going up for sale in May, added Mr Whyte.

The jacket will be sold with a tag that has Liam Neesons name and the name of the play.

At the auction in May, a bible that Michael Collins had on him when he was killed will also be sold.

Whytes found itself in hot water in 2021, after an RUC poster seeking information about the August 1998 Omagh bomb sold for seven times its estimate in a controversial auction.

The auction of the poster had been described by a victims campaigner as in bad taste but was defended by the auction house.

In the online auction of historical artefacts, which finished on Sunday, the poster was bought for 750 (646) by an unknown bidder.

The lot was described by Whytes as issued by the Royal Ulster Constabulary, with colour images of the car that contained the explosives, seeking information about the perpetrators of the atrocity.

In 2019, Whytes sold a Bulgarian-made RPG-7 anti-tank weapon of a type used by the Provisional IRA.
A rendered image of Hanwha Aerospace's rocket assembly facility / Courtesy of Hanwha Aerospace





Hanwha Aerospace CEO Son Jae-il
Hillary Clinton has said the Good Friday Agreement will continue to be a model of peacebuilding for other countries around the world.

The former US secretary of state addressed an International Voices in Leadership event at Agreement 25 as Queens University hosted the second of a three-day conference.

Mrs Clinton said she was very proud Northern Ireland led the way.

In todays very difficult political international context, anything that holds out hope that divides can be crossed and bridges can be built and people can get along with former adversaries is so necessary, she added.

Mrs Clinton echoed the calls from peace talks chairman Senator George Mitchell and husband Bill Clinton for the restoration of the power-sharing government at Stormont.

She said that Brexit had been such a shock to the system.

The idea that borders would be reimposed was against the Good Friday Agreement, so something had to happen to create the opening for all parties once again to believe that the Good Friday Agreement was still the basis for self-governance, the ex-presidential candidate said.

I think the Windsor Framework is that opening and I would hopefully expect all the parties now to reconstitute the government.

Focusing on the role of women in Northern Ireland, she said it was remarkable how they have assumed roles that were just not imaginable 25 years ago.

About a third of the Assembly, once the government is reconstituted, will be women, the first minister will be a woman, the head of the civil service is a woman, the head of the judiciary is a woman.

I think women have really stepped up into the public arena, running for office, holding office, having important positions within government.

So everything we thought would happen if you actually create the right circumstances seems to be happening.

But she said that too many women still struggle with leadership because they dont see themselves as leaders, herself included.

I realised that a critic could be a critical friend or a teacher and that you can learn something about yourself by taking their opinion on board, she added.

Anonymous online criticism is literally meant to tear you down. If you take that seriously, you will get taken down.

Caroline Feeney, Hillary Clinton, Mary McAleese and Cherie Blair at WIB Voices of Leadership Conference

Jayne Brady, the first female head of the Northern Ireland Civil Service, said many barriers remain for women to reach their full potential.

The gender playing field is far from level, she told the Mandela Hall event.

Women represent 50% of our talent assets and their career paths must be nurtured.

Former President of Ireland Mary McAleese said she had witnessed young women whose careers had to be put on hold due to childcare or the care needs of elderly parents.
Former PM urges party to return to Stormont at event celebrating GFA

Former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Former PM Sir Tony Blair, former President Bill Clinton and former Irish PM Bertie Ahern

The Secretary of State will warn the DUP the continued stalemate at Stormont poses the single biggest threat to Northern Irelands place in the UK.

Chris Heaton-Harris will deliver a keynote speech at Queens Universitys second day of events marking 25 years since the signing of the Good Friday Agreement.

He will also tell the New IRA will never succeed as the people of Northern Ireland rejected violence.

During yesterdays events at Queens, Tony Blair encouraged the DUP to restore the power-sharing institutions in Northern Ireland, stating that political leaders here know in your heart of hearts what the right thing to do is.

Speaking during an event celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement at Queens University, the former prime minister echoed comments made by his Irish counterpart at the time, Bertie Ahern.

Both men were instrumental in the peace process negotiations.

Former US senator George Mitchell urges NI's political leaders to act with the courage and vision of their predecessors

Mr Ahern first said: I just really deeply hope that the Democratic Unionist Party pays the reward back to us and stays the road with us.

I think the people in Northern Ireland need them, the people on this island need them. We all want to work together. The alternatives are not good, dont even think about them.

We all just want to get back on track. Theres too many big things to deal with and to be arguing about something that was caused by something or another, Im not sure what it was So just lets move forward and try and make this work.

Mr Blair then added: We know peace isnt perfect. We know the institutions have been rather rocky and unstable, as they are today.

We know theres still a lot of distrust and distress between the communities, but we also know that Northern Ireland is a much better place than it was before the Good Friday Agreement, and anything I would say to todays leaders, is that I think when you step back and reflect, you know in your heart of hearts what the right thing to do is, and you just get on and do it.

Former US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Former PM Sir Tony Blair, former President Bill Clinton and former Irish PM Bertie Ahern

Both mens remarks seemed to be part of a recurring theme throughout the Agreement 25 event, as former US senator George Mitchell also had a message for leaders that wont compromise during his morning address.

Each of your parties have the 100 percenters. They want it their way all the time. Compromise is seen as a sign of weakness, he said.

Reasoned principled compromise is essential, especially in divided society. There is great depth in recognising that the only way to help up emerge from the rubble of conflict is that we must learn to understand one another.

We dont need to love one another, we dont even need to like one other, but we must learn to understand one another and be able to say yes to one another even when the quickest and easiest answer is no.

Meanwhile, former US President Bill Clinton highlighted the positives of the Belfast Agreement and called for all those that had a part in it to stand up in QUBs Whitla Hall to be recognised.

He particularly focused on ex-Irish President Mary McAleese, who is originally from Belfast, and added: I am glad Ireland has a symbolic president who can bring people together and I think it is a metaphor that they had a president from Northern Ireland.

However, be careful what you wish for was the message from DUP MP Ian Paisley to those who wish to alter the Good Friday Agreement.

Changes that have been proposed to the peace institutions include altering the community designation system at Stormont that would diminish parties veto power, which have been used by both Sinn Fein and the DUP to take down the Stormont Assembly.

If people want to change an agreement, which were being told is a totem, thats up to people to seek those changes but I would just say, very clearly, be careful what we wish for in this because when you open up one side of it to satisfy some grievance on one side, you automatically start unravelling on another, Mr Paisley said.

The main political party leaders from Northern Ireland attended the event, apart from the DUPs Sir Jeffrey Donaldson.
Sinn Fein leader says she didnt know councillor was criminalBrian Keane was Sinn Fein director of elections in DublinTrial of Gerry The Monk Hutch heard Keane quizzed Dowdall about attack that was carried out in 2011

Court sketch of former Sinn Fein councillor Jonathan Dowdall being cross examined by Gerry 'The Monk' Hutch's defence barrister, Brendan Grehan SC. Photo: Elizabeth Cook/PA Wire   PA

Mary Lou McDonald and Jonathan Dowdall after Sinn Fein candidates handed in their nomination papers for the 2014 local elections. Photo: Sinn Fein An Phoblacht

Mary Lou McDonald checking tallies with Sinn Fein director of elections for Dublin Brian Keane at the RDS count centre for the 2014 local elections, when Jonathan Dowdall was elected as a councillor. Pic: Sinn Fein An Phoblacht

A Sinn Fein official who allegedly stood up to Jonathan Dowdall about his criminal activity is a key aide of party leader Mary Lou McDonald.

Ms McDonalds claims Sinn Fein had no inkling about Mr Dowdall involvement in crime. But this stance is contradicted by evidence in the trial of Gerry The Monk Hutch.

A well-respected Sinn Fein staff member reportedly confronted Mr Dowdall about involvement in a gun attack before he was elected as a Sinn Fein councillor. Sinn Fein has not responded to the allegations aired in court five months ago.

Mr Dowdall, a protege of Ms McDonalds, was a gangland criminal and connected to dissident republican terrorists.

He made a number of financial contributions to Sinn Fein, including a 1,000 cheque donated to Ms McDonald. Mr Dowdall was described in the Special Criminal Court yesterday as a ruthless, base, callous criminal and it was also stated he was a suspected member of the IRA.

He was also branded a liar and a master manipulator during the trial and was found to have lied to the gardai and the courts.

Mr Dowdall has been convicted of torturing a man, while he was still a Sinn Fein councillor. He has also been convicted of his involvement in the gangland murder of David Byrne at the Regency Hotel in February 2016, only a year after he resigned from Sinn Fein.

The murder started the deadly Kinahan-Hutch feud. Mr Dowdall then drove Gerry The Monk Hutch to a meeting with dissident republicans in Northern Ireland.

In conversations on that journey, bugged by gardai, Mr Dowdall tells Mr Hutch he was questioned by Sinn Fein about a gun attack on his uncles home. The house on the Howth Road in Dublin was shot at on the night of March 31, 2011.

In the evidence played in the Special Criminal Court, Mr Dowdall says Brian Keane, a long-time senior Sinn Fein official, summoned him to a meeting before the 2014 local elections.

Mr Keane is the only Sinn Fein figure to have confronted Mr Dowdall. He was Sinn Fein director of elections for the local elections Dublin in 2014. He was also the election agent for Sinn Feins European candidate Lynn Boylan.

Brian Keane

Mr Keane is close to the Sinn Fein leadership, has worked for Ms McDonald and her predecessor, Gerry Adams, and is a good friend of Pearse Doherty, who attended his wedding.

Mr Keane has held several high-ranking positions in Sinn Fein over the past 15 years having been active in Ogra Shinn Fein as a student. The 39-year-old was appointed as national administrator at the age of just 25, he has served on the partys national executive and has also worked for the party in Leinster House.

In the court evidence, Mr Dowdall says Mr Keane and another Sinn Fein official, Stephen McCormick, summoned him to a meeting before the local elections.

Mr Dowdall tells Mr Hutch that Mr Keane was DOE over Dublin, hes after ringing me non-stop, he arrived at my gaff three times and that during the meeting Brian Keane is doing all the talking. On the tapes, Mr Dowdall says Mr Keane said to him ya riddled your uncle's house and he says this is my job to ask this in case it comes out in the media.

The Garda Press Office confirmed there was an incident: "Gardai investigated the discharge of a firearm that occurred at a residence on Howth Road, Raheny, Dublin 5, on Thursday, March 31, 2011. No persons have been charged as a result of this investigation,

When the tapes first emerged in court last November, Sinn Fein were asked to comment but have not responded.

But Ms McDonald has repeatedly said there was nothing to suggest Mr Dowdall was involved in criminality.

"Jonathan Dowdall should never have been a member of Sinn Fein. Had I known what he would become involved in he would not have been a party member for one minute, never mind running for public office  I would not tolerate that, she said last night.

Mary Lou McDonald and Jonathan Dowdall after Sinn Fein candidates handed in their nomination papers for the 2014 local elections. Photo: Sinn Fein An Phoblacht

Ms McDonald also rejected comments made about her during the course of this trial, which alleged Sinn Fein received support from the Hutch family. I have never met Gerard Hutch. I have never received money or electoral support from Gerard Hutch, she said.

The shooting at Mr Dowdalls uncles house and the subsequent meeting with Sinn Fein officials came up repeatedly at the Regency Hotel murder trial.

Aside from the taped conversations, Mr Dowdall was also questioned about the incidents in cross-examination by Mr Hutchs legal counsel. He has denied carrying out the attack on his uncle's house.

"I did not do anything to him and his house.

"A shot was put into his house. It was years ago, he said in court.

Court sketch of former Sinn Fein councillor Jonathan Dowdall being cross examined by Gerry 'The Monk' Hutch's defence barrister, Brendan Grehan SC. Photo: Elizabeth Cook/PA Wire   PA

The defence claimed Mr Dowdall had a falling out with his uncle and investigating gardai were told he was the only person the victim of the attack had any trouble with. But the prosecution said this allegation was not accurate and another person was named.

Mr Hutchs counsel, Brendan Grehan SC, read from a transcript of the tape of Mr Dowdalls conversation with Mr Hutch. Mr Dowdall speaks about being asked by Sinn Fein about the attack on his uncles house.

Your man Stephen McCormick, I dont know him. Hes sitting there watching it and Brian Keane is doing all the talking.

Following publication of this story in the Irish Independent and Independent.ie today, Sinn Fein responded to queries submitted five months ago.

Sinn Fein says it did not conduct inquiries into the incident.

The party says it did not receive information about past incidents Mr Dowdall was involved in.

Sinn Fein says it did not have any knowledge about Mr Dowdall's utterances on the matter.

A spokesperson said: "The partys General Secretary has clarified the facts pertaining to this matter. The party's director of elections in Dublin met with all candidates on a regular basis. At one of these meetings with Jonathan Dowdall, Jonathan Dowdall raised an incident at his uncle's house in case it became an issue in the campaign.

"Jonathan Dowdall said that he did not know who was involved. There was no suggestion that Jonathan Dowdall was involved in any form of criminality at this stage. On the contrary, he was working with some of the largest companies in Ireland - the major banks, the DAA, and companies who worked with government departments. He was interviewed by your newspaper about his business.

"Had we known that he was capable of carrying out heinous crimes he would, of course, not have been anywhere near our party for a minute, never mind standing for the election to the council."
Chris Heaton-Harris has taken aim at the DUP with a blunt message that real leaders know when to say yes.

The Secretary of State was speaking at Agreement 25, a major conference at Queens University.

He told the audience that the partys continued absence from the Assembly presents the biggest single threat to the Union.

His comments came immediately before a party leaders debate which the DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson did not attend.

Mary Lou McDonald, Naomi Long, Doug Beattie and Colum Eastwood were all present, while the DUP was represented instead by MLA Emma-Little-Pengelly.

Mr Heaton-Harris paid tribute to those who brought peace after decades of violence, crediting David Trimbles foresight and leadership, as well as Martin McGuinness, Gerry Adams and John Hume.

He also mentioned the critical role women such as Mo Mowlam, Monica McWilliams and Baroness May Blood played and reflected on the personal commitments of the Clintons and Senator George Mitchell.

It is undoubtedly the case that the efforts of those people to get peace mean that there are men and women alive today, possibly here today, who otherwise may not be, he said

But addressing the current impasse at Stormont, he warned: I make no apologies for wanting Northern Ireland to work within the Union.

Others who share that view should put the Union first, restore the devolved institutions and get on with the job of delivering for the people of Northern Ireland, he says to a round of applause from the audience.

Real leadership is about knowing when to say yes and having the courage to do so.

Mr Heaton-Harris also referenced the shooting of senior police officer John Caldwell by the New IRA, and warned against the tiny minority who seek to drag Northern Ireland back to its darkest days.

For each person who wants to drag it down, there are thousands determined to lift it up, he said.

His words will been seen as a direct message to the DUP, who continue to refuse to enter the NI Executive.

It was left to MLA Emma Little-Pengelly to defend the current DUP position.

I often reflect on my past. We need to learn from it, she said. We need to learn what hasnt worked before, that was the politics of exclusion, of dismissing the genuinely held views of a substantial group of people in Northern Ireland. That doesnt work.

Nationalists and unionists and everyone in between should work together. We will not exclude our way out of this issues.

People feel very strongly that the protocol damaged the agreed position that Northern Ireland would remain a part of the union unless the people of Northern Ireland decided otherwise through a referendum.

UUP leader Doug Beattie, though, said the continued refusal to enter Stormont is trampling all over democracy.

The Good Friday Agreement was the balancing of the unbalancing. Not everyone got what they wanted, he said.

It was designed to be changed. It has been changed already. Sinn Fein are the largest party. If they are not allowed to take their place we are trampling all over democracy in Northern Ireland.

I say that as a whole UK unionist. If any part is damaged or weak, the whole is damaged and weaker. You cannot exclude any corner of society. Lets get stabilised first, then look to see how we can all come together. 

Alliance leader Naomi Long said it would be a tragedy if people were allowed to become jaded and cynical about the Good Friday Agreement due to the latest political statement.

Sinn Feins Mary Lou McDonald added: None of us have any right to disregard the views or rights of the other. The most frightening prospect is drift. We all live here, they will never change. What has to changed now is that institutions function.
Firebrand union leader Mick Lynch is to address the May Day rally in Belfast next weekend.

Mr Lynch, who is the head of rail workers union the RMT and whose mother is from Co Armagh, will offer his support to those taking strike action in Northern Ireland.

The assistant general secretary of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions, Gerry Murphy, said: Every trade unionist across these islands, and many outside our movement, have been inspired and encouraged by the wisdom and clarity offered by RMT General Secretary Mick Lynch.

In a series of media interviews which became internet phenomena, Mick ignored attempts to sideline the justified demands of his members by trivial and stereotypical questioning, and instead outlined their just cause for decent pay and working conditions with style and wit.

By doing so, Mick has assisted trade union representatives from every sector of our economy and society to explain with clarity why so many working people are taking the principled and initially costly decision to vote for strike action.

Mr Murphy said some unions were going on strike for the first time ever.

Three days before our May Day celebration, we are hosting a strike rally at Belfast City Hall on Wednesday April 26 for striking teachers and civil servants, he said.

These strikes follow ballots of members passed with large majorities, including for the first time ever the National Association of Head Teachers.

Eight trade unions plan to strike that day, and this can be added to ongoing disputes in our NHS, local government and universities and colleges. In recent months, we have seen strike action being successful in gaining better pay settlements for workers across the private and public sector.

Mr Murphy said the rally would also feature local speakers involved in industrial action across the economy.

It will act as a rallying cry for better workers rights and collective bargaining structures so that all workers can benefit from trade union membership and the power that derives from taking action together across the negotiation table and, when needed, on the picket line.

Everyone, in unions or not, are encouraged to join us on the march to Belfast City Hall on Saturday 29 April to hear these speakers and be part of a huge celebration of the collective power of working people.
The DUP will not be brow beaten into a return to powersharing in Northern Ireland, its party leader has warned.

Sir Jeffrey Donaldsons comments came after Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris claimed a restoration of the Stormont institutions was the surest way to secure the regions place in the UK.

Addressing a major conference in Belfast commemorating the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, Mr Heaton-Harris said real leadership was about having the courage to say yes as he hailed decisions made by previous unionist leaders during the peace process.

While Downing Street has denied the speech signalled a toughening up of the Governments messaging towards the DUP, many have interpreted the remarks as a change in tone around the ongoing Stormont impasse.

Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris addressing the conference at Queens University (Niall Carson/PA)   Niall Carson

The DUP is currently blocking the functioning of the Stormont institutions in protest at post-Brexit trading arrangements the party contends have created economic barriers between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK.

The Government insists the DUP concerns have been addressed by the new trading deal it struck with the EU, the Windsor Framework.

But Northern Irelands largest unionist party has insisted the Government needs to provide it with further legal assurances on sovereignty and the application of EU law in Northern Ireland.

The great and the good can lecture us all they want for a cheap round of applause but it wont change the political reality, Sir Jeffrey tweeted on Tuesday.

The political institutions only work when there is cross community consensus. Berating unionists wont solve the problem. They didnt do it to Sinn Fein (when the party collapsed powersharing in 2017) and we will not be treated differently or brow beaten into submission.

The Government need to work with us to address concerns and get the outstanding issues resolved. We stand ready to get the job done and see Stormont restored. But it has to have a solid foundation.

Sinn Fein vice president Michelle ONeill speaking to the media at the Queens conference (Niall Carson/PA).   Niall Carson

Earlier, the Northern Ireland Secretary said those who are proud of the regions place in the Union should put the Union first and restore the devolved institutions.

Mr Heaton-Harris was speaking at the three-day conference at Queens University to mark the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday accord.

He said the narrative that unionism was not served well by the 1998 peace deal was wrong.

Speaking in the Whitla Hall at Queens, he said he has been struck by a narrative that has become louder in recent years  a narrative that the Agreement struck in 1998 did not achieve great things for unionism.

He said: That it was somehow all-out wins for nationalism. That narrative is wrong. And all of those, all of us who support the Agreement, must be vocal in countering it.

Today, the principle of consent is so often taken for granted but it was an important and hard-won guarantee that settled Northern Ireland to remain as part of the United Kingdom.

Mr Heaton-Harris said the simple reality is that people tend to change the status quo only when the status quo is not working, or people simply stop making the case for it.

Devolved powersharing institutions created a status quo that those of us who value Northern Irelands place in the Union can robustly and successfully promote and celebrate, he said.

So let no-one tell you that powersharing is at any way at odds with unionism.

Instead it is the surest way by which Northern Irelands place in the Union can be secured, he said, in comments that prompted applause from the crowd.

Mr Heaton-Harris added: I make no apologies for being proud of Northern Irelands place in the Union and for wanting it to continue.

Others who share that view should put the Union first, restore the devolved institutions and get on with the job of delivering for the people of Northern Ireland.

Tanaiste Micheal Martin talking to the media in the grounds of Queens University (Niall Carson/PA)   Niall Carson

Mr Heaton-Harris said real leadership is about having the courage to say yes, telling the crowd: Like David Trimble (former UUP leader), David Ervine (former Progressive Unionist Party leader) before in 1998, Dr Paisley in 2006 (former DUP leader Ian Paisley), real leadership is about knowing when to say yes and having the courage to do so.

Asked about the tone and content of Mr Heaton-Harriss speech, the Prime Ministers official spokesman said that ministers had used similar messaging before, amid efforts to restore powersharing.

We think it is important that the people of Northern Ireland have an up and running, functioning executive, he said.

Our priority is ensuring that is delivered, it is something we have been working on before the framework and obviously we believe that the framework provides the right foundation for powersharing to return.

Sir Jeffrey has not participated in the conference in its first two days. His party colleague Emma Little-Pengelly told the event on Tuesday that some messages emerging from the stage had demeaned or dismissed unionist concerns.

Sinn Feins Stormont leader, Michelle ONeill, who is in line to become first minister if devolution is restored, said the theme of the conference had been one of encouragement.

I dont think its been deliberately antagonistic towards anybody, she said.

I think its been absolutely determined to be positive and to try to encourage the parties to come together.

There isnt any other show in town.

Vice-president of the European Commission Maros Sefcovic attended the conference (Niall Carson/PA).   Niall Carson

Earlier, Irelands deputy premier Micheal Martin also called for the return of the Stormont executive, saying the UK Government stretched themselves to achieve the Windsor Framework.

The past few years, with the practicalities of Brexit, have been turbulent for Northern Ireland, and for these islands, he said.

The European Commission and the UK Government stretched themselves in recent months to reach an accommodation that works for Northern Ireland.

I know that turbulence will take some time to settle, that parties need to pause and reflect internally on next steps.

But I urge all elected officials to take their seats in the assembly and the executive and get to work on the questions of everyday life that matter to the people of Northern Ireland, including healthcare, education, policing, regional imbalances and much more.

Mr Martin also called on the Northern Ireland parties to recapture the spirit of the Good Friday Agreement.

European Commission vice-president Maros Sefcovic, who also attended the conference on Tuesday, hailed the importance of inclusivity.

In a panel discussion focused on the Good Friday Agreement being a template for resolving global conflict, Mr Sefcovic said lesson number one is respect your partner.

He also said that the establishment of a strong personal relationship is important, adding that he was happy to have had a strong relationship within a very short period of time with both Foreign Secretary James Cleverly and Mr Heaton-Harris.

The event at the Queens University Belfast has seen the participation of major political figures including former US president Bill Clinton, former prime minister Sir Tony Blair and former taoiseach Bertie Ahern.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is scheduled to make a closing address to the conference on Wednesday ahead of a dinner event which former prime ministers Boris Johnson and Liz Truss are expected to attend.
First Minister Humza Yousaf defended the Scottish Government as the Tories called for both his predecessor Nicola Sturgeon and her husband Peter Murrell  the former chief executive of the SNP  to be suspended from the party. (Jane Barlow/PA)

First Minister Humza Yousaf said he has not spoken to his predecessor Nicola Sturgeon in the last couple of weeks, as he rejected calls to suspend both her and her husband from the SNP amid the ongoing police probe into the partys finances.

Mr Yousafs comments came as the police investigation saw SNP treasurer Colin Beattie arrested and questioned by detectives.

The arrest of Mr Beattie, 71, who is also the MSP for Midlothian North and Musselburgh, comes less than two weeks after Ms Sturgeons husband was arrested as part of the same investigation.

Peter Murrell, the former SNP chief executive, was questioned by officers on Wednesday April 5 as officers searched the home the couple share. He was later released without charge, pending further inquiries.

The Constituency Office of Colin Beattie MSP in Dalkeith (Jane Barlow/PA)   Jane Barlow

Police Scotland have been looking into how more than 600,000 in donations to the party earmarked for an independence referendum had been used  but Mr Yousaf said today he would not be speaking to his predecessor about the investigation.

The First Minister told journalists at Holyrood: I havent spoken to Nicola in the last couple of weeks, but I will get to speak to Nicola, I am certain I will.

But one thing Nicola and I will not be talking about is the police investigation. That would be wholly inappropriate.

Scottish Tory deputy leader Meghan Gallacher however said Mr Yousaf should tackle this scandal head-on and prove he is his own man by suspending both the former first minister and her husband.

Speaking in Holyrood, Ms Gallacher said: The SNP is in total meltdown.

Its former chief executive and now its current treasurer have been arrested amid a police investigation into the partys finances.

And leaked footage has shown Nicola Sturgeon trying to shut down scrutiny.

Scottish Tories called for former SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon to be suspended from the party, along with her husband, former chief executive Peter Murrell (Andrew Milligan/PA)

Her comments came after Scottish Conservative chairman Craig Hoy called for Mr Beattie, Mr Murrell and Ms Sturgeon to be suspended from the SNP.

Mr Hoy said: This extremely serious matter is escalating by the day and everyone in the SNP has a duty to be as transparent as possible about what they knew and when.

But Mr Yousaf said it was a really important point of natural law that people are presumed innocent until guilty.

He said he would consider the situation if charges are brought by police, saying if that was the case we may well have to take that course of action.

The First Minister stated: Of course if they are guilty I would take the appropriate action, whether that is suspension or going further than that.

But it is really important due process takes place.

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Earlier on Tuesday, Police Scotland confirmed Mr Beattie had been arrested in connection with the ongoing investigation into the funding and finances of the Scottish National Party.

A report will be submitted to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, the force added.

An SNP spokesperson said: We have no comment on a live police investigation.

Mr Beattie was the SNPs national treasurer between 2004 and 2020, losing the position to MP Douglas Chapman.

However, Mr Chapman quit the post in 2021, claiming he was not being given the required information to carry out the job.

Mr Beattie reclaimed the post soon afterwards, and reportedly told the partys ruling body on Saturday the SNP would struggle to balance the books  reports that have since been disputed by senior figures including former Westminster leader Ian Blackford.

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There was no sign of police activity outside Mr Beatties address in Dalkeith, Midlothian, on Tuesday morning, or outside his constituency office in the town.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said the SNP is in a real mess.

During a visit to York University, he was asked about the arrest of Mr Beattie.

Sir Keir told broadcasters: The SNP developments are deeply concerning.

Obviously there is a criminal investigation going on, so there is only so much I can say.

But after 16 years in power, it has descended to this  a real mess  and those being let down are Scottish voters, who are entitled to better than this.

Meanwhile, Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar said the news of the arrest meant the SNP was no longer a functioning government.

This is an SNP mired in scandal, mired in division, talking to themselves about themselves, and the crisis that now engulfs the SNP is not just an indication of how they govern their party, but also how they govern our country.
Known victims just tip of the iceberg, believes campaigner given unnecessary mastectomy

A rogue breast surgeon who grew up in Northern Ireland could be linked to more than 1,600 deaths, a campaigner has warned.

Bangor-educated Ian Paterson is currently serving a 20 year jail sentence for carrying out needless, life-changing operations.

But now the focus is on Patersons botched 'cleavage-sparing' mastectomies on patients which left behind the breast tissue, risking a return of cancer.

Medical experts are now looking through records belonging to hundreds of patients who were under the care of Patterson who was educated at Bangor Grammar School before studying medicine at Bristol University.

At the weekend the Times revealed that the deaths of 650 patients who were under his care are currently being investigated by coroners in Birmingham.

But campaigner Debbie Douglas believes the figure could be much higher than the 650 deaths which were potentially caused by Patersons actions.

Actually, at the moment, I am really pleased that finally it is coming out in the Pyress because it is something Ive been fighting for for the last 10 years, so at least there is a little bit of traction behind it now, said Ms Douglas who was one of thousands of patients who suffered at the hands of Paterson.

I believe the figures are much greater than have been reported, she told BBC Radio 4s Womans Hour.

Campaigner Debbie Douglas   Alexander Britton/PA Wire

She added: At least 675 patients were dead in 2017 (when Paterson was jailed) in the NHS when a consultant looked at the figures for the NHS.

"And a further 1,000, over 1,000, were dead in the private sector.

"So for me, if those patients had a diagnosis of breast cancer and they died from a breast cancer related illness, they should all be looked at, every single one of them.

Originally, the inquiry said they were going to look at 23 cases, that was a sample of Paterson patients. That has been now been raised to 27 and as (the Sunday Times) reported, a further 650 are to be looked at. But I do believe the figure is greater than that, she said.

Mother-of-three Debbie Douglas underwent a cleavage-sparing mastectomy by Ian Paterson which she said left her in "horrendous" pain.

She later learned her cancer was not serious enough to warrant a mastectomy or the seven-month course of chemotherapy she endured.

She founded Breast Friends Solihull, a group fighting for justice for those impacted by the Paterson case

Ms Douglas said she found it heart-breaking that families of patients who had died were left not knowing if their loved ones might still be with them if had not met Paterson.

She urged anyone who thought there may be an issue concerning their loved ones death to ask for their medical records to be reviewed and if were issues discovered to pass the records to the coroner for review.

Ian Paterson was convicted at Nottingham Crown Court in 2017 of 17 counts of wounding with intent and three counts of unlawful wounding.

He had carried out invasive and unnecessary surgery on both men and women between 1991 and 2012. A large proportion of these surgeries were on women with suspected breast cancer. He also carried out unnecessary surgeries such as colonoscopies, vascular surgeries, hernia surgeries and vasectomies.

An inquiry found he carried out unnecessary operations in NHS and private hospitals on more than 1,000 patients over 14 years, exaggerating or inventing cancer risks and claiming payments for more expensive procedures.

Paterson was born in Scotland but his parents moved to Bangor, Co Down when he was a child and he was educated at Connor House prep school before going to the local grammar.

He worked for the NHS and built a practice at two private hospitals run by Spire Healthcare in Birmingham.

Some of the rogue surgeons patients underwent unnecessary chemotherapy, tests and other procedures.

The Times reported at the weekend that 27 inquests have been opened as a result of cases where coroners 'believe there is evidence to have reason to suspect that some of those deaths may be unnatural'.

His trial heard that there had been 'no medically justifiable reason' for many of the procedures, conducted for financial gain between 1997 and 2011.

The investigation is to be led by deputy high court judge Richard Foster, who is experienced in medical negligence cases.

Out of 1,206 mastectomy patients, 675 had died, according to a report by the Heart of England NHS Trust, compiled in 2017 by the breast surgeon Martin Lee.

The report believes that as many as 1,000 of Patersons private patients have died but the cause of death is unknown.

Figures provided by Cancer Research UK figures show that female patients aged between 50 and 60 have a 90 per cent chance of survival when facing breast cancer.

However, the survival rates were less than 56 per cent for Paterson's patients.
LG Group Chairman Koo Kwang-mo walks with staffers at LG Chem's Cheongju plant in North Chungcheong Province, during his visit to the global cathode production line, Monday. Courtesy of LG Group



By Kim Jae-heun



LG Group Chairman Koo Kwang-mo stressed the importance of expanding the company's cathode production during his recent visit to LG Chem's plant, in order to capitalize on the rapidly growing global demand for electric vehicle batteries, according to company officials Tuesday.



Koo made the visit to LG Chem's cathode-producing factory in Cheongju, North Chungcheong province, Monday, to check the global battery supply chain. He emphasized the importance of the material in the value chain.



"As cathodes are a key material in the second battery business and a new growth engine, it is important that we have a leading position with the material in the global market," Koo said during his visit to the factory.



The Cheongju plant serves as a global control tower and a key base for LG Chem's cathode production. Cathodes are a core material that determines battery capacity and life. It accounts for more than 40 percent of battery production costs.



In particular, the plant produces high-nickel NCMA (nickel, cobalt, manganese and aluminum) cathodes for next-generation electric vehicle batteries. NCMA cathodes raise the content of nickel which determines the energy density and applies highly stable aluminum to improve both the power and stability of the battery.



After looking around the production line, Koo checked the production status and global supply strategies of workers there. The chairman also encouraged staff during this visit.



LG Chem produces 120,000 tons of cathodes annually, 70,000 tons of which is produced at its Cheongju plant, enough for about 700,000 high-performance pure electric vehicles.


Heavy fighting was still under way in Sudan on Tuesday hours after an internationally brokered truce was supposed to have come into effect, as forces loyal to dueling generals battled for key locations in the capital and accused each other of violating the ceasefire.

The truce, reported by several Arab media outlets, was to begin Tuesday at 6pm local time, but heavy fighting continued raging.

Residents said they still heard gunfire and explosions in different parts of Khartoum, particularly around the militarys headquarters and the Republican Palace, the seat of power. They said few people had ventured out, though there were crowds outside some bakeries.

The fighting remains under way, Atiya Abdulla Atiya of the Sudan Doctors Syndicate told The Associated Press. We are hearing constant gunfire.

Both generals are backed by tens of thousands of heavily armed troops who have been battling across the capital, Khartoum, and elsewhere in Sudan since Saturday.

The violence has killed at least 185 people, wounded hundreds more and raised the specter of civil war in Africas third largest country.

Millions of Sudanese in the capital and in other major cities have been hiding in their homes, caught in the crossfire as the two forces battle for control, with rival generals so far insisting they will crush the other.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken condemned the violence (Zhang Xiaoyu/Pool Photo via AP)   Zhang Xiaoyu

Satellite channels Al-Arabiya and Al-Jazeera had reports citing the top military officer Shams El Din Kabbashi as saying that the military would comply with the ceasefire.

Earlier, CNN Arabic also said in a report, citing the head of the countrys military, General Abdel Fattah Burhan, that the military would be party to the day-long truce.

The development came a day after a US Embassy convoy came under fire and forces of the two rivals pounded each other for a fourth day with heavy weapons.

The attack on the convoy in Khartoum, along with an assault on the EU envoys residence and the shelling of the Norwegian ambassadors home, signalled a further descent into chaos in the country.

The convoy of clearly marked US Embassy vehicles was attacked on Monday, and preliminary reports linked the assailants to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), the paramilitary group battling Sudans military, US secretary of state Antony Blinken told reporters. Everyone in the convoy was safe, he said.

More than 185 people have been killed and more than 1,800 wounded since fighting began on Saturday, according to UN figures, which did not include a breakdown of civilians and combatants.

The Sudan Doctors Syndicate said on Tuesday that at least 144 civilians were killed and more than 1,400 were wounded.

The overall death toll could be much higher because clashes in Khartoum have prevented the removal of bodies in some areas.

Planes have been destroyed at Khartoum International Airport (Maxar Technologies via AP)   Uncredited

The State Department said late on Monday that Mr Blinken spoke by phone separately with the two rival generals  armed forces chief, General Burhan, and RSF leader General Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo.

I made very clear that any attacks or threats or dangers posed to our diplomats were totally unacceptable, Mr Blinken told reporters at the Group of Seven wealthy nations meeting in Japan on Tuesday. He appealed for an immediate 24-hour ceasefire as a foundation for a longer truce and a return to negotiations.

General Dagalo said in a series of tweets on Tuesday that he had approved a 24-hour humanitarian truce after speaking to Mr Blinken.

More tanks and armoured vehicles belonging to the military rolled into Khartoum early on Tuesday, heading towards the militarys headquarters and the Republican Palace, the seat of power, residents said.

During the night, fighter jets swooped overhead and anti-aircraft fire lit up the skies.

People walk past closed shops in Khartoum (Marwan Ali/AP)   Marwan Ali

Fighting resumed early on Tuesday around each sides main bases and at strategic government buildings  all of which are in residential areas.

Video from the Arab TV network Al-Arabiya showed a large explosion near the main military headquarters in central Khartoum that raised a giant cloud of smoke and dust.

Satellite images from Maxar Technologies taken on Monday showed damage across Khartoum, including to security service buildings. Tanks stood guard at a bridge over the White Nile River and other locations in the Sudanese capital.

Satellite images from Planet Labs PBC, also taken on Monday, showed 20 damaged civilian and military aircraft at Khartoum International Airport, which has a military section.

Some had been completely destroyed, with one still belching smoke. At the El Obeid and Merowe air bases, north and south of Khartoum, several fighter jets were among the destroyed aircraft.

The violence has raised the spectre of civil war just as the Sudanese were trying to revive the drive for a democratic, civilian government after decades of military rule.

Each side already has tens of thousands of troops distributed around the districts of Khartoum and the city of Omdurman on the opposite bank of the Nile River. That has brought the fighting and chaos  with gunbattles, artillery barrages and air strikes  to the doorsteps of the cities terrified residents.
Smoke rises over the horizon as a fire burns after a strike in Khartoum (Abdullah Moneim/AP)   Abdullah Moneim

The Sudanese army and rival forces which they have been battling since the weekend have agreed to a 24-hour ceasefire, Arab media reports said.

The fighting since Saturday has plunged the Sudanese capital of Khartoum and other areas of the country into chaos.

Millions of Sudanese in the capital and in other major cities have been hiding in their homes, caught in the crossfire as the two forces battle for control, with rival generals so far insisting they will crush the other.

Satellite channels Al-Arabiya and Al-Jazeera had reports citing the top military officer Shams El Din Kabbashi as saying that the military would comply with the ceasefire.

Earlier, CNN Arabic also said in a report, citing the head of the countrys military, General Abdel Fattah Burhan, that the military would be party to the day-long truce.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken condemned the violence (Zhang Xiaoyu/Pool Photo via AP)   Zhang Xiaoyu

The development came a day after a US Embassy convoy came under fire and forces of the two rivals pounded each other for a fourth day with heavy weapons.

The attack on the convoy in Khartoum, along with an assault on the EU envoys residence and the shelling of the Norwegian ambassadors home, signalled a further descent into chaos in the country.

The convoy of clearly marked US Embassy vehicles was attacked on Monday, and preliminary reports linked the assailants to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), the paramilitary group battling Sudans military, US secretary of state Antony Blinken told reporters. Everyone in the convoy was safe, he said.

More than 185 people have been killed and more than 1,800 wounded since fighting began on Saturday, according to UN figures, which did not include a breakdown of civilians and combatants.

The Sudan Doctors Syndicate said on Tuesday that at least 144 civilians were killed and more than 1,400 were wounded.

The overall death toll could be much higher because clashes in Khartoum have prevented the removal of bodies in some areas.

Planes have been destroyed at Khartoum International Airport (Maxar Technologies via AP)   Uncredited

The State Department said late on Monday that Mr Blinken spoke by phone separately with the two rival generals  armed forces chief, General Burhan, and RSF leader General Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo.

I made very clear that any attacks or threats or dangers posed to our diplomats were totally unacceptable, Mr Blinken told reporters at the Group of Seven wealthy nations meeting in Japan on Tuesday. He appealed for an immediate 24-hour ceasefire as a foundation for a longer truce and a return to negotiations.

General Dagalo said in a series of tweets on Tuesday that he had approved a 24-hour humanitarian truce after speaking to Mr Blinken.

More tanks and armoured vehicles belonging to the military rolled into Khartoum early on Tuesday, heading towards the militarys headquarters and the Republican Palace, the seat of power, residents said.

During the night, fighter jets swooped overhead and anti-aircraft fire lit up the skies.

People walk past closed shops in Khartoum (Marwan Ali/AP)   Marwan Ali

Fighting resumed early on Tuesday around each sides main bases and at strategic government buildings  all of which are in residential areas.

Video from the Arab TV network Al-Arabiya showed a large explosion near the main military headquarters in central Khartoum that raised a giant cloud of smoke and dust.

Satellite images from Maxar Technologies taken on Monday showed damage across Khartoum, including to security service buildings. Tanks stood guard at a bridge over the White Nile River and other locations in the Sudanese capital.

Satellite images from Planet Labs PBC, also taken on Monday, showed 20 damaged civilian and military aircraft at Khartoum International Airport, which has a military section.

Some had been completely destroyed, with one still belching smoke. At the El Obeid and Merowe air bases, north and south of Khartoum, several fighter jets were among the destroyed aircraft.

The violence has raised the spectre of civil war just as the Sudanese were trying to revive the drive for a democratic, civilian government after decades of military rule.

Each side already has tens of thousands of troops distributed around the districts of Khartoum and the city of Omdurman on the opposite bank of the Nile River. That has brought the fighting and chaos  with gunbattles, artillery barrages and air strikes  to the doorsteps of the cities terrified residents.

Residents have reported looting of shops and homes by fighters.

One resident near Khartoums Arabic Market area said he saw a group of armed men in RSF uniform smashing doors of shops in the area and stealing goods including mobile phones.

The paramilitary force denied the accusations and claimed that some people disguised as RSF troops had stormed residential houses.
Bill Clinton spoke of his love for Derry and connections that stretch over three decades as he delivered an emotive speech at the Guildhall yesterday.
The Indonesian Christian Church of Yasmin was inaugurated this month after a 15-year dispute, Bogor, West Java, Indonesia, April 12, 2023.

Members of a Christian congregation in Indonesias Bogor city got their own church this month after a 15-year dispute with local authorities and Muslim residents.

The Indonesian Christian Church of Yasmin, known as GKI Yasmin, inaugurated the new church building in Bogor, a city about 37 miles south of Jakarta, at an event attended by two cabinet ministers on April 9, which was Easter Sunday for Christians.

Church spokesman Arif Zuwana said most of the congregation welcomed the new church, but some declined to attend because the building was moved from its original site under pressure from neighbors and despite a 2010 Supreme Court ruling allowing construction to continue there.

Most of our members feel that this is a miracle from God to us, although we acknowledge that some congregants still want it to be built on the original land, Arif told BenarNews.

He said he did not know how many congregation members refused to attend services at the new church.

We follow the organizational rules and this is a collective decision at the synod level [to support the relocation], he said.

But one thing is certain: Many people worship in it.

The congregations long struggle reflects the challenges faced by religious minorities in Indonesia, where intolerance and discrimination have been on the rise in recent years, observers have said.

Although the Constitution guarantees freedom of religion, some Christian congregations said they have difficulty building new churches as officials often cite public opposition or zoning regulations.

The Christian minority in Indonesia represents about 11% of the population.

A worker cleans inside the Indonesian Christian Church of Yasmin in Bogor, West Java, Indonesia, April 12, 2023. [Eko Siswono Toyudho/BenarNews]

The GKI Yasmin, a Presbyterian denomination, had obtained a building permit from the Bogor city government in 2006, but soon faced resistance from some locals who claimed the congregation had forged signatures to meet the requirement of having at least 60 neighbors approval.

In Indonesia, the construction of houses of worship must meet several requirements including the signatures and identification of at least 90 worshipers, the signed approval of neighbors and a written government recommendation.

Rights activists have said the decree was passed because of some Muslims concern about alleged Christian missionary activities and what they perceived as a growing number of churches in Muslim areas.

In response to the forgery allegations against GKI Yasmin, the Bogor city government revoked the construction permit in 2008 and sealed off the half-finished building.

The congregation challenged the revocation in court and won a series of legal victories, including a final ruling from the Supreme Court in 2010 that ordered the city government to issue a new permit and allow the church to operate.

But the city government defied the ruling. For years, the congregation held services on the sidewalk or in front of the presidential palace in Jakarta as a form of protest.

The deadlock was finally broken in 2019, when Bogors mayor, Bima Arya Sugiarto, offered to relocate the church to another site, about a mile (1.6 km.) from the original location.

The congregation agreed to the proposal, it said, after consulting with its members and leaders. The city government then granted a 1,668 square meters (about 18,000 square feet) plot of land for the church.

Example of the governments failure

At the inauguration event, Bima apologized for taking too long to resolve the dispute. He said he hoped that the church would become a symbol of tolerance and brotherhood in Bogor.

The government is responsible for fulfilling basic rights, including worship, and the public must share this view, so it is impossible for a place of worship to not be allowed, he said.

Mohammad Mahfud MD, the coordinating minister for political, legal and security affairs, who attended the inauguration event along with Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian, praised the resolution of the case.

This is proof that Indonesia is a country that upholds the constitutional rights of its citizens, especially those of the Christian faith, he said.

But some human rights activists and church members argued that the city government should have complied with the Supreme Courts decision and allowed construction on the original land and building.

Bonar Tigor Naipospos, an activist with human rights group Setara Institute for Democracy and Peace, said the city governments defiance of the court ruling set a bad precedent.

For Bima Arya this is an opportunity for him to portray himself as a leader who protects minorities, especially since he has received almost all support from the church, he said.

Meanwhile, the central government sees this to be a good opportunity to appear committed to maintaining diversity and harmony, he said.

Bona Sigalingging, a former spokesman for GKI Yasmin, agreed with Bonars assessment.

Everything shown in the inauguration event was an example of the governments failure in implementing Pancasila and the 1945 Constitution purely and consistently, he said.

Pancasila is Indonesias state ideology that espouses belief in god, humanity, unity, democracy and justice.

The Jakarta-based Setara Institute, which monitors religious tolerance and democracy in Indonesia, said it documented 175 incidents and 333 violations of religious freedom across the nation last year.

The report found the state was the main violator, accounting for 43% of the total acts. State actors included government officials, law enforcement agencies and institutions.

Bima said the relocation was the best option to ensure the congregations right to worship.

If you enter into a legal debate, this is indeed complicated because each has a strong legal argument, he said.

I offered GKI to get out of the legal debate. So, lets get along.

Another Setara report said Bogor rose to 17th in the institutes annual tolerant city index in 2022, from 33rd the previous year, partly because of resolution of the GKI Yasmin dispute.

The index measures indicators such as freedom of religion, protection of minority rights, social participation and public services.

Nazarudin Latif in Jakarta contributed to this report.
Adm. Yudo Margono, commander of the Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI), leads a prayer in the Babul Jannah Mosque at Yohanis Kapiyau Air Force Base in Timika, a town in Indonesias troubled Papua region, April 17, 2023.

Four Indonesian soldiers remain unaccounted for after Papuan separatist rebels ambushed government forces at the weekend as they tried to free a New Zealand pilot held captive by the insurgents, the military chief said Tuesday.

It was the first time the military publicly acknowledged that soldiers were missing after Saturdays deadly ambush by the West Papua National Liberation Army in Nduga, a regency in Highland Papua province.

The fate of four personnel is still unconfirmed. We are still looking for them, Adm. Yudo Margono, commander of the Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI), told a press conference in the Papua town of Timika.

Nduga is where insurgents seized pilot Philip Mehrtens after torching his plane at a local airport on Feb. 7. Mehrtens works for Susi Air, a local airline that operates in remote areas of Indonesia.

Military officials had previously said that one serviceman from the Indonesian Army was killed in the jungle skirmish. Yudo dismissed claims by Liberation Army spokesman Sebby Sambom that 15 soldiers had been killed in Saturdays incident.

Its their habit to distribute fake news, Yudo said.

A day earlier, a TNI spokesman also accused the Papuan rebels of disseminating misleading information. He appeared to suggest that government troops involved in Saturdays incident were all accounted for.

The names of the troops who have regrouped at the nearest posts proved that the information was fake news, Rear Adm. Julius Widjojono, the spokesman, told BenarNews, when asked about the rebels claim.

In Mimika on Tuesday, Yudo warned that the military would do away with its soft approach in dealing with the rebel group, which has been seeking independence from Indonesia since the 1960s.

After this incident, we will evaluate our approaches, he said. We will increase our ground combat alert operation, from soft approach to combat alert, to boost our combat instinct.

He also said he would rotate out the soldiers who had been stationed in the area for more than a year because of the stress they faced. He did not say how many troops were involved or where they would be relocated.

On Sunday, the Liberation Army, the armed wing of the Free Papua Movement, threatened to carry out more attacks if Indonesia refused to hold peace talks with the rebels involving the United Nations.

The group also said it was willing to negotiate with both the Indonesian and New Zealand governments for the release of Mehrtens, but had not received a response.

Papua, a former Dutch colony, was annexed by Indonesia in 1969 after a U.N.-sponsored referendum that independence supporters and human rights groups say was rigged. The Free Papua Movement has waged a low-level guerrilla war against Indonesian rule ever since.

Human rights groups have accused both sides of committing abuses against civilians in the conflict. The Indonesian government limits access to foreign journalists and aid workers in Papua and information from the region is often difficult to verify.
The Cook Islands has decriminalized homosexuality and strengthened its law against rape in a sign of progress for sexual minorities and women in socially conservative Pacific island countries.

The Cook Islands parliament voted on Friday to update its decades-old Crimes Act.

Apart from repealing a law that criminalized sex between men, the changes remove marriage as a defense in rape cases. They also make child-sex abuse a global offense  meaning perpetrators can face trial in local courts if the crime happened abroad.

It is not the governments role to interfere in the private lives of individuals when activity is consensual and has not caused harm to anyone, Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown told parliament.

I know that our people have their views on this bill. Our older generation have conservative views, our younger generation have more liberal views, he said. Every country in the world at some stage has had to deal with this matter of removing discriminatory laws that criminalize people.

Under the 1969 Crimes Act, acts of indecency between males in the Cook Islands were punishable by up to five years in prison, and up to seven years for sodomy. Human Dignity Trust, which supports legal challenges to anti-LGBT laws worldwide, said the local law against homosexuality wasnt enforced in recent years.

Homosexuality remains illegal in six Pacific island countries: Papua New Guinea, Kiribati, Samoa, Tonga, Tuvalu and the Solomon Islands. Maximum sentences are up to 14 years in some of those countries, though prosecutions are rare.

Such laws are a legacy of the colonial era when countries such as the United Kingdom, France and Germany divided the Pacific into spheres of influence and also introduced Christianity.

Brown said the womens rights were also being advanced with the removal of marriage as a defense to rape charges.

Domestic violence and domestic sexual abuse against women, or men for that matter, can no longer be accepted just because you are married, he said.

Mark Brown, prime minister of the Cook Islands, argues in parliament to repeal a decades-old law criminalizing homosexuality, April 14, 2023. [Screen grab from a Cook Islands Parliament video]

Most of the two dozen lawmakers in the Cook Islands parliament voted in favor of decriminalizing homosexuality including all 15 members of the governing partys caucus.

Opposition lawmaker Teariki Heather, who opposed the decriminalization, said it could lead to the Cook Islands following New Zealand, which legalized same-sex marriage in 2013 following decriminalization of homosexuality nearly three decades earlier.

Look at the nation of New Zealand today. Look at what they have agreed upon in their legislation and their law of allowing same-sex marriage, man and a man, a woman and a woman, he said. As we look around at what is happening around the world, ask yourself this question: do we want to become like them?

The Cook Islands, home to some 17,000 people, is about 3,000 kilometers (1,860 miles) northeast of New Zealand, which is responsible for the small island countrys defense. President Joe Biden said last year that the United States planned to recognize the Cook Islands as an independent state  it has grouped it with New Zealand until now  as part of renewed U.S. attention to the Pacific following inroads by China.

Karla Eggleton, president of LGBT group Pride Cook Islands, said parliaments vote signifies that the law has caught up with Cook Islands society.

It means that we are recognized, it means that the rainbow community are equals in the eyes of the law, she told Radio New Zealand.

We can stand side by side and hand by hand with our neighbors, with our family, with our friends to say that we are truly being accepted for who we are, she said.

UNAIDS, the U.N. agency that leads the global campaign to prevent the spread of HIV, the virus that causes Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, welcomed the Cook Islands law change.

Anti-LGBT laws reinforce stigma and obstruct access healthcare, it said.

This decision by Cook Islands will save lives, Eamonn Murphy, UNAIDS Asia Pacific director, said in a statement.
Ukrainian flag is covered with grains in this picture illustration taken May 9, 2022. Reuters-Yonhap



Slovakia on Monday joined Poland and Hungary in banning grain imports from Ukraine as even Kyiv's staunchest allies come under domestic pressure to shield their agriculture markets.



The heat is mounting on Brussels to work out a European Union wide solution after Warsaw and Budapest announced bans on some imports from Ukraine at the weekend, with other countries in eastern Europe saying they are also considering action.



Farmers say imports from Ukraine have lowered prices and reduced their sales. In Poland, the issue has created a problem in an election year for the ruling nationalist Law and Justice (PiS) party that relies on rural areas for much of its support.



"Ukraine needs help, but the costs of this help should be spread over all European countries, not just the frontline countries, especially Poland. We do not agree to this, because it harms our farmers," Polish agriculture minister Robert Telus said after talks that began in Warsaw on Monday.



Kyiv said it aims to re-open food and grain transit via Poland as "a first step" to ending import bans, but Telus said that no solution had so far been found to guarantee that the grain in transit would not end up on the local market.



Some Black Sea ports were blocked after Russia's invasion of Ukraine began last year and logistical bottlenecks trapped large quantities of Ukrainian grain, which is cheaper than that produced in the EU, in Central European countries.



The Polish, Hungarian and Slovakian export and transit bans come as a deal to allow the export of millions of tonnes of Ukrainian grain via the Black Sea, despite the Ukraine war, nears its May 18 expiry. Meanwhile, Russian demands have left the prospect of an extension of this deal uncertain.



The combined impact of the bans and failure to agree an extension would strand millions of tons of grain inside Ukraine, a major agricultural producer that makes a substantial part of its gross domestic product from food sales.



"The first step ... should be the opening of transit, because it is quite important and it is the thing that should be done unconditionally and after that we will talk about other things," Ukrainian Agriculture Minister Mykola Solsky said before the talks in Warsaw.



To prevent any grain entering its market, Poland's ban also covered transit through the country, which imported 2.45 million tons of grain, or three quarters of total imports, from Ukraine in 2022, Polish Agriculture Ministry data showed.



The bans have left truck drivers stranded for several days in long traffic jams on the border baffled.



"We can't go in either direction. Yes, the Poles reached out to us, I'm very thankful to them. I'm immensely grateful, the whole of Ukraine is, the whole world even. But now, Poland doesn't let (us) in for some reason," Mykola Bervin, a driver from Zhytomyr in Ukraine, told Reuters.



Bervin said he had been stuck for three days and the tailback was more than 25 kilometers long.





A woman holds a loaf of bread during a farmers' protest in front of the Representative Office of the European Commission in Bucharest, Romania, April 7. Slovakia has become the third European Union country to ban food imports from Ukraine. AP-Yonhap
Former Philippine Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario (right) applauds during a forum on the South China Sea in Metro Manila, July 12, 2019.

Albert del Rosario, the Philippines former top diplomat who successfully led the country in its international arbitration case over a territorial dispute with China in the South China Sea, died on Tuesday, his family said. He was 83.

The Philippine case was considered groundbreaking because it marked the first time that any country had challenged China in a world court over its territorial claims in the waterway.

His daughter, Dr. Inge del Rosario, confirmed the news to reporters but did not disclose the cause of death. Other sources close to the family said the ex-foreign secretary died while on a flight to San Francisco.

The family of Ambassador Albert Ferreros del Rosario is deeply saddened to announce his passing today, April 18, 2023. The family requests privacy during this difficult time, his daughter said.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo confirmed the news.

He called del Rosario an advocate of protecting and advancing national security and promoting the rights and welfare of Filipinos both in the Philippines and abroad.

You will be missed, Mr. Secretary, he said.

Born in Manila on Nov. 14, 1939, del Rosario, a critic of former President Rodrigo Dutertes foreign policies  particularly in dealing with China  served as the Philippine foreign affairs chief under late President Benigno Aquino III, from 2011 until 2016.

While heading the Department of Foreign Affairs, del Rosario spearheaded the Philippines legal battle against China before the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, Netherlands over a territorial dispute in the West Philippine Sea. The Philippines brought the case before the court in 2012.

In July 2016, the arbitration court ruled in favor of the Philippines, and threw out Chinas expansive claims in the sea, including in waters that reach its neighbors shores. The Philippines calls the part of the South China Sea that is within its territory the West Philippine Sea.

Activists who traveled to the contested Scarborough Shoal and were blocked by the Chinese coast, react after a ruling on the South China Sea by an arbitration court in The Hague in favor of the Philippines, at a restaurant in Manila, July 12, 2016. [Erik De Castro/Reuters]

The Chinese, however, ignored the landmark ruling, even as most countries in the West, led by the United States, hailed the award in the Philippines favor. Since then, China has carried on with its military expansionism in the strategic waterway, including building artificial islands.

But President Duterte, who took office within a month before the historic ruling, played it down and chose instead to build up warm bilateral relations with China. Late into his presidency, however, he told the United Nations General Assembly that the arbitration courts ruling was beyond compromise and part of international law.

The Philippines not only lost a patriot but an esteemed diplomat who represented our country with utmost grace, honor, and dignity, Sen. Risa Hontiveros said in paying tribute to del Rosario.

His leadership inspired in us the courage and the creativity to fight for our national interest using lawful and diplomatic means. Defending and protecting our rights in the WPS is an intergenerational battle, one we can win because of the work Sec. del Rosario started, Hontiveros said in a statement, referring to the West Philippine Sea.

Philippine Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario, who spearheaded the filing of a complaint against China, attends a hearing regarding the Philippines and China on the South China Sea, at the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) at The Hague, the Netherlands, Nov. 24, 2015. [Permanent Court of Arbitration via AP]

Jose Antonio Custodio, a military historian at the Institute of Policy, Strategy and Development Studies, a Philippine think-tank, described Del Rosario as a brave man who had endured public insults from Duterte.

He was a hero of the republic for successfully fighting against Chinas illegal claims in our maritime entitlements. May his memory be a blessing, Custodio said.

The think-tank Stratbase ADR Institute, where del Rosario served as chairperson, said the former foreign affairs chief championed democratic values and rules-based international order.

He has fought for an independent foreign policy that prioritizes the interests of the country and of the Filipino people. He believed that diplomacy is a great equalizer in international affairs and that each state had an equal voice in the global community regardless of their political, economic, or military capabilities, the institute said.

Jeoffrey Maitem and Jojo Rinoza contributed to this report from Manila.
Wearing a short-sleeved T-shirt, shorts and sandals, the man with the glasses whistled as he slid onto the saddle of his Fino motorbike, backed it away from his Bangkok rental home and rode off.

Those were the last images captured by the security camera of blogger Duong Van Thai. The camera screen showed the footage was recorded at 4:37 a.m. April 13, 2023  but the timestamp was almost certainly inaccurate.

The video showed Thai motoring away during daylight and neighbors said he left home at around 11 a.m. Thursday. Later that day, he live-streamed for about 20 minutes on his YouTube channel with nearly 120,000 followers. He talked about last weeks trial of blogger Nguyen Lan Thang and the U.S. secretary of states visit to Vietnam.

Calls to his mobile phone and messages on WhatsApp on Thursday afternoon went unanswered, several of his friends said, and he never returned home.

On Sunday, police in Vietnams northern province of Ha Tinh announced they had found a person without identification illegally entering the country from trails on its border with Laos. They confirmed that the person was named Duong Van Thai, born in 1982.

Duong Van Thai, also known as Thai Van Duong, had been applying for refugee status with the United Nations refugee agencys office in Bangkok. Thailand for many decades has served as an informal safe haven for political refugees in the region.

The 41-year-old fled Vietnam in either 2018 or early 2019 fearing political persecution for his many blog posts and videos that criticized the government and leaders of the Communist Party on Facebook and YouTube.

Now it appears that he was abducted and forced to return to Vietnam.

Everything looks normal

Grace Bui, a Vietnamese American human rights activist living in Thailand, told Radio Free Asia, a news service affiliated with BenarNews, that she and her friends went to Thai's home on Monday.

Inside his room, everything looks normal, just like Duong has just gotten up in the morning and gone out for a quick walk, she said. We found the bag he often carried when going out. His wallet was still in the bag, and his U.N. card and bank cards were still in the wallet. We found his laptop also.

The U.N. card is a refugee card issued by the U.N. High Commissioner of Refugees office in Bangkok to people who have refugee status and are waiting to be resettled in a third country.



The back of refugee card has text in both English and Thai that reads as follows:

The bearer of this card is related to UNHCR, registered and documented under the U.N. General Assemblys authorization, and cannot be forced to return to their country of origin. All support to the bearer is highly appreciated.

All the belongings in his room seemed to show that Thai was not prepared for a long trip back to Vietnam where he faces a heavy sentence for his criticism against the government and the ruling Communist Party.

A close friend said Thai had a stable life in Thailand and very much wanted to resettle in a third country. He had no plans to return to Vietnam, according to Hoang Trong Man, also known as Man Hien Phap.

I would like to affirm that Mr. Duong Van Thai did not intend to return to Vietnam because if he had had such a plan, he would have told us and collected some belongings before he left, he said.

Pre-disappearance signs

Several of Thais friends told RFA that he had shared with them a piece of great news on Wednesday. He did an interview with UNHCR officials, who asked if he had any relatives in Australia. Thai replied that he wanted to resettle in the United States, where his girlfriend lived.

Bui, who was in regular contact with Thai before his disappearance, told RFA that it was unlikely that Thai would return to Vietnam a day after doing an immigration interview with UNHCR.

Duong [Thai] never intended to return to Vietnam, and if you ask Duong's friends, you will know that he never wanted to go back to Vietnam, she said.

Nguyen Xuan Kim, another Vietnamese refugee in Thailand and a close friend of Thai, said that around two weeks before going missing, he shared his feelings of insecurity just after he posted videos about political infighting in Vietnam.

His recent posts referred to many senior officials of the Ministry of Public Security, about the general who had an extramarital affair, Kim said. He said briefly that he should be vigilant just in case but did not go into the specifics.

Thai told Kim that one of his neighbors said that on April 6, a man riding a motorbike with a Chiang Rai provincial number plate approached Thais home to film and take photos. The man spoke Thai but not fluently, the neighbor told Thai, according to Kim.

On Tuesday, Kim told RFA that Thai gave him access to his rental homes security camera system, some social media accounts and some electronic devices. However, Kim said he hasnt been able to access much of the data.

Who was involved?

A statement from Amnesty Internationals regional office expressed concern over the information about Thais arrest in Vietnam, particularly given that the UNHCR had recognized his refugee status.

Vietnam keeps close tabs on dissidents and has in the past shown that it is not above tracking and surveilling them beyond its borders. Vietnamese refugees living in Thailand who fled the country because of the governments repression must be protected and should not have to live in constant fear, the group said in the statement sent to RFA on Tuesday.

RFA contacted UNHCR and its office in Thailand, as well as the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs, via email to inquire about Thais case but hasnt received a response.

Phil Robertson, the deputy Asia director of Human Rights Watch, urged the Thai government to clarify Thais case.

There are so many highly troubling questions about the abduction of Thai Van Duong, but what is not in dispute is he was living in Thailand as a UNHCR-recognized refugee entitled to full protection, he said in an email to RFA on Tuesday.

How he was forced from Thai soil to Vietnam, who was involved, and when and where did it happen are urgent matters that the Thai government must immediately investigate.

Robertson said he fears that Thais case is yet another example that a so-called swap mart exists between Thailand and repressive neighboring countries such as Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos.

It is very unlikely that Vietnam government agents could have just come into Thailand and snatched a dissident without some local Thai officials knowing about this, and agreeing to look the other way, he said.

Whoever did this clearly broke both Thai and international law that prohibits sending a person back to where they will face persecution, torture and abuse, and there is no doubt all those things lie in the future for Thai Van Duong in the hands of the Vietnamese police, he said. There must be accountability to end this kind of hunting of refugees and asylum seekers in Thailand, starting with this case.

Bui said representatives of international rights organizations in Bangkok have met in the past to discuss how to support and protect refugees in Thailand.

Thai Immigration Police and responsible agencies in Vietnam have not responded to RFAs emails sent on Saturday requesting comment.
Bennington, VT (05201)

Today

Partly cloudy skies during the morning hours will give way to occasional showers in the afternoon. High near 60F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

A steady rain in the evening. Showers continuing late. Low near 40F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%. Rainfall around a quarter of an inch.
Bennington, VT (05201)

Today

Partly cloudy in the morning. Increasing clouds with periods of showers later in the day. High 59F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Rain early...then remaining cloudy with showers late. Low 41F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%.
Ralph Yarl, a Black 16-year-old who was shot and wounded by a homeowner after mistakenly going to the wrong house to pick up his siblings, holds a bass clarinet in this picture obtained from social media. Reuters-Yonhap



A Kansas City man was charged with two felonies on Monday in the shooting of a Black teenager who was wounded after walking up to the wrong house when going to pick up his younger twin brothers.



Andrew Lester, an 85-year-old white man, was charged with first degree assault and armed criminal action for shooting Ralph Yarl, 16, on the doorstep of his suburban home around 10 p.m. last Thursday, the prosecutor said.



"I can tell you there was a racial component to the case," Clay County prosecutor Zachary Thompson told a news conference, without providing further details.



Two shots were fired from a revolver through a glass door, the prosecutor said. Yarl, who was struck in the head and an arm, did not cross the threshold, Thompson said, adding it did not appear any words were exchanged in the encounter.



Lester could face life in prison should he be found guilty of the assault charge and up to 15 years for criminal action, the prosecutor said. Hate crimes, which were not filed, carry lesser penalties in Missouri, he added.



Kansas City has seen two days of protests after the homeowner shot Yarl, who was released from the hospital and is recovering from the gunshot wounds, according to his family.





Thea Davis, pastor at Restore Community Church, left, addresses a crowd of protestors before a march in Kansas City, Missouri, to bring attention to the shooting of Ralph Yarl, April 16. AP-Yonhap



Demonstrators gathered on Monday at the suspect's single-story house on a tree-lined street, shouting "Black lives are under attack" and "Stand up, fight back," online videos showed.



"No child should ever live in fear of being shot for ringing the wrong doorbell," Vice President Kamala Harris tweeted in response to the shooting.



The family's lawyer Ben Crump on Monday had demanded the homeowner be arrested and charged with attempted murder of a teenager described by his school district as an "excellent student and talented musician."



The homeowner was initially taken into custody, placed on a 24-hour investigative hold, then released pending an interview with Yarl and the collection of forensic evidence, Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves said.



A warrant was later issued for Lester's arrest with bond set at $200,000. He was not in custody as of 5 p.m. CDT (2200 GMT), the prosecutor said.



Missouri has a "stand-your-ground law" that allows homeowners to use physical force to defend themselves against suspected intruders.



The law says a person cannot use deadly force unless they reasonably believe it is necessary to protect themselves or another person against death or serious physical injury, or a possible felony. (Reuters)




Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
PITTSFIELD  Fabia Raquel Atherton and Nazira Vargas used to drive two hours to buy what were considered staples in their home countries of Brazil and Costa Rica. Now, they are bringing many of the same staples to the community by opening a Brazilian market here.

Brazzucas, a Portuguese nickname for Brazilians, will open in June at 75 North St., the former home of The Berkshire General Store before it closed in December. The Brazilian restaurant Espetinho Carioca, which opened in December, is across the street.

Atherton said she and Vargas are friends with the owners of Espetinho Carioca, and see their store as a chance to complete the local Brazilian food ecosystem.

We don't have to compete," she said. "If you go to places a couple of hours away from here, you can see a Brazilian restaurant, a bakery and a market thriving next to one another.

Mariane Melo, from Espetinho Carioca, is happy to see Brazzucas opening. She said having a market that close would help the restaurant if an ingredient runs out.

To avoid competing, Brazzucas will make limited use of its kitchen. One exception will be Cachorro Quente, Brazilian hotdogs featuring hard boiled quail eggs, corn, peas, ground beef and Parmesan cheese, with olives and shoestring potatoes on the side.

Some of what the couple will be bringing to town include meats like Brazilian sausage, chicken hearts and picanha, also known as top sirloin cap. Shelves will also be stocked with sugar cane juice, Latin American cheeses, some baked goods, and much more.

And if with all that, you dont find what youre looking for, Vargas says they are open to suggestions. Were going to have a board where people can write down requests. This Eagle reporter was the first to put in a formal request for a Spanish-style horchata.

Atherton and Vargas are aware that their food culture isnt well known in The Berkshires. To make introductions, the couple is planning a June grand-opening party that will include free food and drinks for people to sample and see how the ingredients in the store can be used. We want to make it very open for people to come back, Atherton said.

Besides the food, they are also bringing the common Brazilian and Costa Rican business practice to hold raffles open to customers who spend a certain amount.

Brazzucas will be open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. six days a week. Atherton and Vargas are still deciding whether to be closed on Sunday or Monday.

Their in-store bakery will be small during the first year of operation, but there will be a space with comfortable chairs and a little table to enjoy a pastry.

Atherton and Vargas, who have been together for 16 years, met at La Fogata restaurant on Tyler Street; they now have two children.

They have been working as Shared Living Providers, hosting people with disabilities; eventually, they say they want to hire people with disabilities as store employees.

Atherton and Vargas did not think their dream to open a store would come together so quickly. But Atherton said they were surprised by all the help and donations they've received, including one from their landlord who gave them a lot of kitchen and store supplies the Berkshire General Store left behind. Additionally, the couple is working on applying to the Vibe North Street Grant.

This program by the Berkshire Black Economic Council is offering up to $25,000 to businesses willing to occupy North Street vacant storefronts.
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.
As Ralph Yarl struggles to come to grips with being shot after going to the wrong house to pick up his younger brothers, the white Kansas City, Missouri homeowner who shot the Black 16-year-old is facing his day in court
For many people, one of the key steps in estate planning is making sure their children are treated fairly when it comes to inheritance. But fair doesnt always mean equal, especially if your family situation or assets are complicated.
LENOX  On the verge of possible foreclosure and subdivision, the historic Undermountain Farm and Equestrian Center has gotten a reprieve  although not a guarantee.

The Sprague Family Trust, owner of the 120-year-old farm with widely admired views overlooking Parsons Marsh, has transferred the property to the HomeFarm at Undermountain, a nonprofit formed in 2021.

The transaction for the site at 400 Undermountain Road was recorded last week at the Berkshire Middle District Registry of Deeds. It was a gift, not a sale, according to the document signed by Tjasa Sprague  thus, no payment was recorded.

Sprague told The Eagle that she hopes to remain involved in restoring the historic farm buildings, where 23 horses are stabled.

The 10-acre center of equestrian facilities and historic farming structures includes stables, a large, covered indoor arena, grazing pastures and riding trails. Its surrounded by 150 acres of pasture, forest and hayfields.

The town could have taken the farm from me, but somehow they didnt, she said. The farm is kind of the keystone for all that protected land on Undermountain Road, hundreds of acres.

Sprague said she is applying to put the farm on the National Register of Historic Places, with support from the Massachusetts Historical Commission.

In its mission statement, HomeFarm at Undermountain, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, states that it teaches recreational horsemanship and equine husbandry, and provides therapeutic equine-assisted programs to children and adults. The equestrian center offers lessons, boarding and pony rides. It does not offer trail-riding to the public.

Although the entire property is 158 acres, the gift does not include 61 acres transferred to the Berkshire Natural Resources Council in 2017. The BNRC has held a conservation restriction on that portion of the land since 2016, when it paid $450,000 to the Sprague Family Trust, owner of the site since 1974.

Because of delinquent property taxes and debt service, the farm was in imminent danger of foreclosure, HomeFarm interim Chair Gary Knisely confirmed.

Knisely said the property had been shown to potential developers and told The Eagle hes hoping to raise about $1 million. That funding could come from preservation-minded community members and government programs in order to cover debt and unpaid taxes, and then lay the groundwork to catch up on deferred maintenance and pursue further restoration of the property. So far, the nonprofit has raised about $150,000, Knisely said, adding he is confident the community will rally behind the farm.

What we need right now is to see 40 [percent] to 50 percent of the total raised in the next several months so we can start fixing the fences and stabilize the buildings, Knisely said. Money is needed to begin to show what this place can look like.

Unpaid local property taxes covering the years 2019 through 2023 total nearly $120,000, according to town records, as well as close to $8,000 in unpaid sewer and water fees. The nonprofit also has a $150,000 mortgage to pay off.

Knisely pointed out that without the gift from the Sprague Family Trust and the formation of the nonprofit, the likely result was fated to be a public auction and subsequent housing development on the property zoned for five new homes.

What scared us is that the property was already zoned for homes, and I dont think there would have been any way to stop it, he said.

Even with the gift, Knisely said, the property might be developed.

It does, though, give us sufficient breathing room to totally protect this great asset, if we can pay off the debt and the taxes. Then, if we can raise the $1 million, we can stabilize and move on to restoration.

A three-year payment plan for the real estate taxes is being worked out, HomeFarm Executive Director Lori Pestana stated in a letter to the Board of Assessors. The sewer and water fees would be paid off by the end of this month.

It is the intention of HomeFarm at Undermountain to not only save this historic property from the threat of foreclosure and development but also to repair and restore the buildings and land from years of neglect, Pestana wrote.

This important source of pleasure to the neighbors, townspeople and visitors was very close to being history  only enjoyed by perusing photo books in the Lenox Library, Knisely wrote in an email to some community members.

He credited the generous gift to the nonprofit from Tjasa Sprague, who is now stepping back from a leadership role to become one of the board directors for HomeFarm at Undermountain.

Pestana and Danica Keena will continue to manage and operate the farm and equestrian center, supervised by the board of directors, which will be expanded to nine members. Knisely wrote that he would remain as interim chair until an established community leader assumes that role.

Knisely said he is seeking recommendations to fill out the board. After names of potential members are gathered, recruitment and selection will follow. Then the board will appoint its chair.

The nonprofit is actively seeking donations.

We look forward to the near future when HomeFarm will be a great community resource for community health, land conservation, historical preservation, and the arts, Knisely said.

Nearby resident Jonas Dovydenas welcomed the nonprofits plans, saying hes glad to see a scenic piece of Lenox protected along the byway to Tanglewood from Cliffwood Street through Undermountain Road.

Its all good, but its hard to raise money for all that, he said, adding he has offered to join the board of directors for HomeFarm at Undermountain. Its an important piece of property that should be preserved properly, and I think a horse farm is the right way to go.
WILLIAMSTOWN  A local nonprofit has acquired 10 acres of agricultural land, preserving it specifically for farming so that it doesnt become the site of a real estate development.

Williamstown Rural Lands in recent years had been seeking the land, part of Sweet Brook Farm that borders Woodcock and Oblong roads. The property belonged to the ex-wife of the farms co-owner, and she wouldnt budge from the price offered by a developer, $745,000. Rural Lands matched it to complete the sale.

She had a contract to sell about a year ago, Rural Lands Executive Director Robin Sears said. We said, Lets save this, take it out of the jaws, the clenches, of a developer. They wouldve put at least one, maybe two or three houses on that land. We wanted to keep it natural and keep it in farming.

History and process

The 10 acres had been in the Phelps family for at least a century before the divorce between Pete Phelps and Beth Phelps complicated matters. Sarah Lipinski, the Phelpses daughter, who runs Sweet Brook Farm with her husband Darryl Lipinski, said she and her father were resigned to losing access to the 10 acres, and that they figured her mother would eventually sell it.

Once a 10-year state grant that codified use of the land as agricultural ran out in 2021, Lipinskis mother began receiving offers on the property from real estate developers.

With the purchase, Rural Lands will put the land out to bid, with it probably being leased to a local farmer. If multiple bids qualify, Rural Lands will choose the one whose plans are most harmonious with the groups mission, Sears said.

Sarah Lipinski told The Eagle that Sweet Brook Farm plans to apply for the lease.

Were excited to hopefully pay the lease on that land, she said, to invest back into it and rebuild the soil there, grow better grass, and increase our herd with access to that land.

Though their cows grazed on the land while it wasnt being used, Lipinski said family members hadnt been maintaining it because they thought theyd lose it.

We thought it would be sold, she said, and people would buy houses there.

A yearslong effort for private donations amassed enough money to buy the property. Along with Rural Lands, the towns Select Board, Berkshire Natural Resources Council and others helped to raise the money or remove barriers to the sale.

Because of its special tax status for agricultural acreage, the town had the first right of refusal, meaning it could buy with an offer of $745,000. In 2022, Rural Lands successfully lobbied to acquire the towns right of first refusal.

The Trustees of Reservations, a Massachusetts conservation organization, has agreed to buy the development rights for the property from Rural Lands, and will then place a farming conservation restriction on the land.

Coveted ground

Sears said she loves the land.

It has a stunning view of Mount Greylock, it looks out across the farms, its a beautiful open space, with a stream and maple trees, and its on a dirt road with a lot of road frontage, Sears said.

Sears said Rural Lands had a previous appraisal of the real estate value of the land at about $100,000 less than the eventual price. Sarah Lipinski said the agricultural value of the land is still much less than that.

My dad and Rural Lands paid for an appraisal on that parcel, She said said. The agricultural value of that 10 acres is $15,000. Thats what a farmer should pay for that land to raise crops on it. So how can a farm ever compete with a developer willing to spend $745,000? Every farm in the country would be shut down.

Although the group has now bought only six properties, it owns a total of 19 through private donations. Conserving farmland is not its only priority, though it is one of them.

Part of our mission is to preserve farmland so that farmers can keep farming, Sears said. If theres imminent risk to the property, if theres a threat of development, were also happy to preserve it.

Sarah Gardner, a professor of environmental studies at Williams College and the chair of Williamstowns Agricultural Commission, said the trend of developing farmland for real estate is a local threat.

If we want to have farms in Williamstown five or 10 years from now, its critical to protect the farmland in town, Gardner said in a news release announcing the purchase. Farms cant compete with homebuyers in the real estate market. There are about 12 farms left in Williamstown, but half are not expected to be in business 10 years out. Most farmers here are in their 60s or 70s, and many lack a successor.

More than 80 percent of Berkshire Countys farmland is not permanently protected, according to agricultural organization American Farmland Trust. That organization also found Massachusetts has the second-highest real estate values for farms in the country, and could lose 74,000 acres of farmland by 2040.

Rural Lands said that the 10-acre plot protects an important section of Sweet Brook and connecting water systems, while also preserving the pasture, a sugarbush, and a habitat for birds.

This land has been farmed by my family for eight generations now, I have kids who I hope will be the ninth generation, Lipinski said. I wanted Rural Lands to know how committed my husband and I are to continuing this legacy of agriculture in south Williamstown.
Vladimir Kara-Murza is a Russian opposition politician and Washington Post contributor who has been imprisoned in Moscow since April for speaking out against the war on Ukraine.

Special to The Washington Post.
The former office of the America ChangLe Association, described by U.S. authorities as a Chinese 'secret police station' masquerading as a social gathering place for people from China's Fujian province, on the fourth floor of the Royal East Plaza building at 107 East Broadway in the Chinatown neighborhood of New York City, U.S., April 17. Reuters-Yonhap



Two men were arrested Monday on charges that they helped establish a secret police station in New York City on behalf of the Chinese government, and about three dozen officers with China's national police force were charged with using social media to harass dissidents inside the United States, authorities said Monday.



The cases are part of a series of Justice Department prosecutions in recent years aimed at disrupting Chinese government efforts to locate in America pro-democracy activists and others who are openly critical of Beijing's policies and to suppress their speech.



One of three cases announced Monday concerns a local branch of the Chinese Ministry of Public Security that had operated inside an office building in Manhattan's Chinatown neighborhood before closing last fall amid an FBI investigation. The two men who were arrested were acting under the direction and control of a Chinese government official and deleted communication with that official from their phones after learning of the FBI's probe in an apparent effort to obstruct the inquiry, according to the Justice Department.



Though China is believed to be operating secretive police outposts in countries around the globe, Justice Department officials said these arrests were the first of their kind anywhere in the world.



"This is a blatant violation of our national sovereignty," Michael Driscoll, the head of New York's FBI field office, said at a news conference announcing the cases.



The men, identified as "Harry" Lu Jianwang, 61, of the Bronx, and Chen Jinping, 59, of Manhattan, both U.S. citizens, were arrested at their homes on Monday morning. A lawyer for Lu declined to comment. An email message seeking comment was left with a lawyer for Chen.



At no point did the men register with the Justice Department as agents of a foreign government, U.S. law enforcement officials said. And though the secret police station did perform some basic services, such as helping Chinese citizens renew their Chinese driver's licenses, it also served a more "sinister" function, including helping the Chinese government locate a pro-democracy activist of Chinese descent living in California, officials said.



"New York City is home to New York's finest: the NYPD," said U.S. Attorney Breon Peace, the top federal prosecutor in Brooklyn, whose office brought the cases. "We don't need or want a secret police station in our great city."



Justice Department officials in recent years have prioritized prosecutions of what's known as "transnational repression," in which foreign governments work to identify, intimidate and silence dissidents in the U.S.





A Chinese-language signage is pictured outside the former office of the America ChangLe Association, described by U.S. authorities as a Chinese 'secret police station' masquerading as a social gathering place for people from China's Fujian province, on the fourth floor of the Royal East Plaza building at 107 East Broadway in the Chinatown neighborhood of New York City, U.S., April 17. Reuters-Yonhap
Who among us hasnt done this? Sometimes we are desperate to hear from God, and since we know He speaks through His word, we open the Bible and point to a verse. There have been times in my life I have done this and have been amazed at what the Lord showed me and how He met my need. But a certain time in particular stands out because God taught me the requirement for discernment when using this method.

One day, after receiving the news that my Non-Hodgkins lymphoma had returned, I was desperate to read a verse that would give me encouragement and strength. I used the Open and Point Method to discover what the Lord might want to say to me. Shockingly, the verse I pointed to was this: I will prepare your grave, for you are vile (Nahum 1:14). After I got over the shock, I relied on the knowledge I had gained from years of walking with the Lord, and I knew this message was not meant for me. I know my Shepherds voice, and I also know not to misapply His word. This Scripture, in its context, was meant for Ninevah, which was a faithless and ruthless society. Gods word, incorrectly handled, can cause us to fear or mistrustbut fear is never from God. If you decide to use the Open and Point Method, do it with wisdom, always considering the context of the verses you are reading.

Remedy: Consider the need for discernment and wisdom, and use it when applying what you read.

Photo Credit:  Getty Images
Just days apart the journalism fraternity has lost SABC News Free State editor Teboho Letshaba, veteran SABC News Sepedi Radio current affairs producer and presenter Matome Maupi in Limpopo, and former EWN reporter in Cape Town, Graig-Lee Smith have passed away.

Source:  SABC News SABC News SABC News Free State editor Teboho Letshaba is one of a number of journalists who have passed away recently

The 40-year-old Letshaba passed away in his sleep at his apartment in Bloemfontein on 4 April 2023 and was buried over the past weekend.

SABC News head of input, Angie Kapelianis described Letshaba as versatile, brilliant, and dedicated to education and his work.The multi-award-winning journalist joined the SABC Bloemfontein newsroom in 2008 and held various positions. He also authored at least five Sesotho books, of which one was turned into a theatre production.

Kapelianis said they were still expecting more from him. He was disciplined. He was a quiet and thoughtful guy. To Tebohos family, we feel for you. We are with you To Teboho, sleep well, go well, sys Kapelianis.

Mandla Mbusi, provincial operations manager at the broadcaster, says: We are trying to cope with the grief and loss of Letshaba. He would bring you current affair stories, real stories affecting people lives. We have lost a giant in the media industry and as the broadcaster.

Matome Maupi

The 52-year-old veteran Sepedi Radio current affairs producer and presenter Matome Maupi passed away on the evening of 13 April 2023 after losing a battle against lung cancer. Hed been sick and on leave since January.

Maupi started his radio current affairs career at Mohodi Community Radio and joined the SABC as the host of the popular current affairs show Hlokwa La Tsela on Thobela FM in the early 2000s, where he was loved for his robust interaction with politicians and officials when tackling service delivery issues affecting communities in Limpopo, Mpumalanga, North West, and Gauteng.

Maupi's former colleague, Thipa Selala, described him as a great mentor, teacher, and a walking Sepedi encyclopaedia.

When I joined the SABC in 2007 he was tasked with training me. He was a diligent man; his cheerful personality will be missed. He was energetic and worked like a man possessed with extraordinary vision. He had exceptional courage and an unmatched passion for radio. May God rest his soul.

SABC regional manager Oupa Mamabolo says: "We are bereft of words of comfort as Matome Maupi was one of a kind- an intersection of assertiveness and humility packed in a human being."

Graig-Lee Smith

Former EWN reporter in Cape Town, Graig-Lee Smith passed away on Sunday evening. His colleague Crystal Orderson described Smith as passionate and energetic since their student days at Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT).

He wanted to make a difference in telling stories about communities. He went to speak to rural women and in the Cape Flats who lost children due to violence. He hated sitting in the office and loved going to communities and telling their stories, she says.

Smith joined e-tv Openview team as a producer. He was later appointed as programme manager at RSG- the main and oldest Afrikaans radio station- where he ensured the station reflected full diversity of Afrikaans speakers from Kuruman to Mitchells Plain to Johannesburg.

He had a knack to get people to tell him how they feel, and he was able to bring those stories to 702, 567 Cape Talk, KFM in the Western Cape and 947 in Johannesburg. As a multi-faceted journalist, he was also a stand in news reader, helping when we needed a voice to read news bulletins, says Orderson.

The South African National Editors' Forum (Sanef) sends condolences to the families of these broadcasting giants and colleagues. "Their death is a great loss to the media fraternity, and they will be sorely missed."
Howard Audio is thrilled to share our most recent TVC in which we composed the original music for Castle Double Malt.

Karien Cherry of Giant Films was chosen by Ogilvy to direct the spot and selected Adam Howard to create a smooth jazz soundtrack. We were briefed to have the actual musicians who played on the track appear in the film, Howard explains. I booked some of the best jazz musicians in South Africa to be featured: Sisonke Xonti on sax, Tshogofatso Teffo on guitars, Benjamin Jeptha on bass and Sabu Satsha on drums. We recorded at Howard Audio prior to the shoot. Subsequently, they played to that recording live on set. Ive often seen actors in TV commercials who clearly dont play an instrument  it just looks so wrong to me as a musician. So Im delighted that Karien insisted on using the actual musicians. It adds a level of authenticity to the project.

Watch the spot here:

To learn more about the new Howard Audio and to stay up to date with our latest work be sure to check out our new website at www.howardaudio.co.za.




The University of Pretoria (UP) achieved a 100% pass rate in the 2023 South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) Initial Test of Competence (ITC).

SAICA administers two professional exams, the ITC being the first of the two. The results of the January 2023 ITC examination were released yesterday, 31 March 2023. Three UP students are in the top ten:

In addition to these students, UP has 10 candidates on SAICAs Honours Roll for achieving 75% or more in the ITC:

Ms Chelsey Venter



Mr Christopher Pieterse



Mr Evan Walker



Ms Isabella Van der Watt



Ms Jean Van der Westhuizen



Mr Louis Kruger



Ms Nidhi Jani



Mr Rikus Bester



Ms Shante Dunstan



Ms ZanA Pretorius

The overall national pass rate was 75%  from 59% in 2022. A total of 3,021 candidates (2,946 last year) wrote the January 2023 ITC of which 2,279 passed. This is an increase from the 1,739 candidates who passed last year. UP contributed 174 candidates (172 in 2022) to the January 2023 ITC. There are 18 accredited institutions in South Africa who contribute to the candidates for the 2023 ITC and UP contributes nearly 8% of all successful candidates in the country.

We remain steadfast in our commitment to providing our students with an outstanding education that equips them to become leaders in their chosen fields

 Prof Margaret Chitiga-Mabugu

UP has been consistent with its pass rates over the last 15 years, attaining an average first-time pass rate of approximately 95% over this period.

Professor Madeleine Stiglingh, head: CA-Programme in the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences (EMS) expressed her gratitude to the Universitys and Facultys management for their continued support towards the CA-Programme.

The successful completion of the ITC examination is a passport  our students need to continue on their journey to reimagine and co-create the future, and make a positive impact on society. We celebrate with our students who persevered and victoriously battled in the face of adversity through one of the most challenging times in higher education.

Prof Margaret Chitiga-Mabugu, dean of the Faculty of EMS congratulated all the staff members in the financial sciences departments for the role they played in UP achieving these sterling results. She noted that these outstanding results attests to UPs teaching and learning excellence and the calibre of graduates the University produces.

These exceptional results not only showcase our academic excellence but are a demonstration that our programmes offer relevant knowledge that prepare our graduates for the world of work. We take immense pride in the performance of our students and sincerely congratulate them for upholding UPs reputation of excellence, she said.

We remain steadfast in our commitment to providing our students with an outstanding education that equips them to become leaders in their chosen fields, added Chitiga-Mabugu.

Prof Tawana Kupe, vice-chancellor and principal of UP, who was thrilled over the 100% ITC pass rate, congratulated the students for their achievements. He highlighted that UPs CA Programme is locally relevant and globally competitive, evident in the latest QS World Subject Rankings, which rank UP first in South Africa and Africa in the Accounting and Finance subject areas.

I extend a warm congratulations to our students for their sheer tenacity, which has paid off. Their hard work, combined with our innovative teaching and learning methods, and the dedication of our academics, all ensure that UP continues to be a leader in the education of chartered accountants in the country. These results also validate that our academic offerings align with industry standards, said Kupe.




For the 12th time in the past 13 years telecoms brand MTN (brand value up 24% to R74.3bn) is South Africa's most valuable brand according brand valuation consultancy, Brand Finance's annual Brand Finance South Africa 100 2023 ranking report.

Image supplied. Woolworths SA has the highest Sustainability Perceptions in the Brand Finance South Africa 100 2023 ranking report, revealed at the JSE in Sandton this morning. L to r: Jeremy Sampson  chairman, Brand Finance Africa, Sifiso Ledwaba, Woolworths, and Oliver Schmitz  MD of Brand Finance Africa

Every year, Brand Finance puts 5,000 of the biggest brands to the test, and publishes over 100 reports, ranking brands across all sectors and countries, into the report.

MTNs brand value continued to grow in 2023, meaning that its value is now up 50% from its pre-pandemic level. This is an impressive statistic considering the difficult operating conditions and the complex geopolitical environment that the brand has been faced with. In addition it also has the highest Sustainability Perceptions Value (SPV) of any brand in the rnaking.

Vodacom: second most valuable brand

MTNs brand is worth just less than double the value of the second most valuable brand, Vodacom (brand value up 33% to R39.8bn).

Although Vodacom is not yet operating on the same scale as MTN, Brand Finances research found it is out-performing it in a number of key metrics surrounding customer satisfaction. These included consideration, usage, reputation, quality, and customer service.

It is invariably the case that when economic conditions are particularly challenging, strong brands show off their pedigree. As the world economy and South Africa recovers from the Covid-19 pandemic the brands that have continued to invest in their future are prospering, says Jeremy Sampson, managing director, Africa, Brand Finance.

Banking the most valuable sector

A strong post-pandemic recovery has set South African banking brands up for impressive brand value growth in 2022.

The sector now accounts for five brands in the Top 10 of the ranking and is also the most valuable sector in the South Africa 100 2023 ranking, making up 24% of the total brand value.

The combined brand value of the 11 banking brands included in the ranking was R146.5bn. This is 25bn more than the next most valuable sector, which was Telecoms (six brands included in the ranking to combined brand value of R121.5bn).

Standard Bank (brand value up 27% to R29.7bn) is the third most valuable South African brand, making it the countrys most valuable banking brand for the second consecutive year.

The banks 27% year-on-year growth has further widened the gap with First National Bank (brand value up 5% to R26.1bn) and Absa (brand value up 19% to R25.3bn) which sit in fourth and fifth in the ranking. Investec (brand value up 15% to R16.8bn) has risen three places to re-enter the top 10 of the ranking.

Strongest brands

Pick n Pay is the strongest brand, amongst seven South African brands to achieve elite AAA+ rating.

In addition to calculating brand value, Brand Finance also determines the relative strength of brands through a balanced scorecard of metrics evaluating marketing investment, stakeholder equity, and business performance.

Compliant with ISO 20671, Brand Finances assessment of stakeholder equity incorporates original market research data from over 100,000 respondents in 38 countries and across 31 sectors.

Retail brand Pick n Pay (brand value up 30% to R13.5bn) has become the strongest South African brand with a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 94 out of 100 and corresponding AAA+ rating. Pick n Pay has seen a 14-point BSI increase year-on-year to clinch the top spot for brand strength.

Astonishingly, it is one of seven South African brands to achieve the elite AAA+ rating, five of which came from the retail sector. For comparison, only 12 brands achieved AAA+ brand rating in Brand Finances ranking of the worlds top 500 most valuable and strongest brands - the Global 500 2023.

Fastest growing SA brand

Spar SA is the fastest growing South African brand, up 48% to a brand value of R21.4bn. It's growth reflects a positive outlook for South African retail brands, despite difficult operating conditions over the past year. Spar SA opened 41 new stores in 2022 and was able to record 6% growth in revenue and increased forecast revenues.

Sustainability

As part of its analysis, Brand Finance assesses the role that specific brand attributes play in driving overall brand value. One such attribute, growing rapidly in its significance, is sustainability.

Brand Finance assesses how sustainable specific brands are perceived to be, represented by a Sustainability Perceptions Score. The value that is linked to sustainability perceptions, the Sustainability Perceptions Value, is then calculated for each brand.

As well as being South Africas most valuable brand, MTN also has the highest Sustainability Perceptions Value (SPV) of any brand included in the South Africa 100 2023 ranking - R8.6bn.

This indicates how much brand value MTN has tied up in sustainability perceptions (11.6%). The brands Sustainability Perception Score was 5.23 out of 10, the 10th highest in the ranking.

Woolworths SA (brand value up 25% to R21.7bn has the highest Sustainability Perceptions Score in the ranking, 6.02 out of 10. Woolworths has long been recognised as a pioneering retailer in the sustainability field. Stakeholders resultantly gave it the highest Sustainability Perceptions Score, which equates to R2bn in value contribution to the brand.

View the full Brand Finance South Africa 100 report here




NEW DELHI (PTI): India and the UK are "natural partners" in a world that is becoming more "contested and volatile", Britain's Chief of the Defence Staff Admiral Sir Tony Radakin said on Monday as he began a three-day visit to India.



Admiral Radakin is taking part in a series of high-level meetings in India this week, continuing momentum in building strategic ties between the two countries.



The British CDS began his visit to India by paying homage to the fallen soldiers at the National War Memorial this morning ahead of his first meeting with his Indian counterpart Gen Anil Chauhan.



The two chiefs reviewed progress on various pillars of the UK-India defence partnership and exchanged views to further expand ties in all the domains, a British readout said.



It said the UK and India are natural partners in defence and share a strong and enduring relationship, including collaboration in research, development and training.



Admiral Radakin said his visit to India reflects the UK's belief that our security is indivisible from that of the wider world.



"As a global trading nation it matters to the UK that the Indo-Pacific is open and free, which is why the British Armed Forces are establishing the broadest and most integrated presence in the region of any European nation," he said.



"India and the UK are natural partners in a world that is becoming more contested and volatile. We share many of the same democratic instincts and values and are both committed to the rule of law," he was quoted in the readout.



Admiral Radakin said India and the UK can do more in the area of defence cooperation.



"We are respected military powers, both undergoing significant investment and modernisation, and exercising together across, land, sea and air. But we can do more. I value the opportunity to meet with General Anil Chauhan to discuss how we can develop our partnership in a way that benefits our mutual security and prosperity," the British CDS added.



Admiral Radakin held discussions with the Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Hari Kumar, Chief of the Army Staff General Manoj Pande, Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane, and Additional Secretary Defence Production T Natarajan.



The release also quoted British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace as saying that India is a valued defence partner for the UK and the relationship continues to flourish across our research and industrial sectors.



"Both our nations are committed to the stability and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific and we continue to train and operate alongside our Indian partners to promote security in the region," he said.



Over the next two days, Admiral Radakin will be hosted by various establishments of the Indian Armed Forces across the country, in a bid to boost military-to-military engagement and explore opportunities around the co-creation of future technologies.



Following the signing of an updated Memorandum of Understanding in 2019, discussions around industrial collaboration in the aerospace sector have been progressing, with the UK's Minister for Defence Procurement visiting India in February and the First Sea Lord visiting in March.


A fresh perspective on the Middle East

A new podcast by Brandeis scholars aims to explore under-examined aspects of the Middle East and dispel misconceptions and assumptions.

"Counter/Argument" is produced and presented by the Crown Center for Middle East Studies.

"We're aiming for an audience that is informed and engaged. They are following the Middle East, and they want a deeper dive -- they want to hear from the experts," said Karen Spira, assistant director of the Crown Center.

The podcast is hosted by Spira; Naghmeh Sohrabi, Charles (Corky) Goodman Professor of Middle East History and director for research at the Crown Center; and Ramyar D. Rossoukh, assistant director for research at the Crown Center.

Through conversations with scholars and practitioners encompassing a variety of disciplines and perspectives, each episode debunks key misconceptions about the contemporary Middle East, while remaining committed to the Crown Center's motto of balanced and dispassionate analysis.

Five episodes have been released so far, covering topics like the broader meanings of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogans environmentalism, an in depth analysis of the prison system in Iran and what it means to be a political prisoner there, and the role of modern art in Middle East protest movements. The most recent episode, released April 14, is with Jillian Schwedler, professor of political science at Hunter College and non-resident fellow at the Crown Center, about the significance of popular protests in Jordan and other misconceptions about state and society in Jordan.

"Podcasting is a wonderful medium to broaden our audience," Rossoukh said. "These kinds of conversations about events and issues in the Middle East are happening among colleagues at the Crown Center every day, and they should be of concern to anyone who's interested in the region."

Starting a podcast was a logical next step for the Crown Center, which already produces written analysis of the Middle East in its Middle East Briefs and Crown Conversations. Each episode runs about 30 to 35 minutes.

With language and cultural barriers, the entry into knowledge of the Middle East can carry a high price, Sohrabi said. This can lead to misconceptions and preconceptions about what the region is about. Each episode is an opportunity to set the record straight.

The Crown Center is full of interesting people with indispensable knowledge, Sohrabi said. We approach each episode as a sort of wish list of the researchers we're talking to. What are misconceptions around their expertise? What do they wish a wider audience would know?

Listen to the most recent episode of Counter/Argument.
The owner of Dublin's Market Bar and an adjoining premises has claimed auctioneers Sherry FitzGerald undervalued the city centre property for the purpose of meeting loan-to-value (LTV) requirements of his lender.

Businessman Mark Conan claimed in High Court proceedings that the valuation carried out by Sherry FitzGerald (Commercial) Ltd led him to suffer a loss of nearly 841,000 after he had to sell some of his investments to meet LTV requirements.

Sherry FitzGerald denies his claim that the property on Fade Street in Dublin 2 was worth significantly more than the auctioneers' valuation. It is also denied that Mr Conan suffered the losses claimed.

An application to have Mr Conan's action dismissed on grounds of delay in prosecuting the case, which was taken in 2017, was rejected by Mr Justice Mark Heslin.

Outlining the case, the judge said that in 2012, Mr Conan was required to meet an LTV covenant on loans following the sale of his loans by AIB to Vesta Mortgages Investment, a subsidiary of the US-based private equity firm Lonestar.

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His loans totalled 5.2 million on property he owned which was worth some 6.1 million, it was claimed.

Mr Conan, in his pleadings, said at the time of the valuation, there was a shortfall of some 310,000 in the LTV covenant. The 6.1 million LTV valuation comprised the Market Bar on Fade Street and an adjoining retail unit with office/workshop premises, along with an apartment in George's Quay, Dublin, and property in Cheltenham, England.

Mr Conan says Sherry FitzGerald put a valuation of 1.68 million on the Fade Street properties when they were in fact worth 2.4 million.

The real value of the property was significantly greater than the figure reported to Vesta by Sherry Fitzgerald, he claimed.

Losses

As a result, he said he had to sell some of his investments, including shares in Ryanair and converting Sterling cash balances to Europe.

The payment to Vesta also had a consequential impact on his finances leading him to sell the Cheltenham and Georges Quay properties, he says.

In 2022, Sherry FitzGerald applied to the court to have his case dismissed on the grounds of delay.

The auctioneers argued, among other things, they were severely prejudiced by the delay. They said that while Mr Conan had argued part of the delay was due to a medical condition from which he was suffering, this did not stop him from bringing proceedings in two other cases in August 2021.

Mr Conan opposed the application.

Business Dispute over emergency exit used by Dublin's Marke... Read More

Refusing the application to dismiss, Mr Justice Heslin said no specific or concrete prejudice had been established.

There was no evidence of any damage to Sherry FitzGerald's reputation and business, and it had not been asserted that having these proceedings "hanging over" it had created any difficulty for its business, he said.

The judge said even if he was entirely wrong in the view that prejudice had not been established, it seemed to him that any prejudice to the defendant was of a general and minor sort which falls below what could be considered moderate.

He took the view that the reality that a fair trial remains as possible now, and for the foreseeable future, as at any other time to date.
Former Downing Street communications chief Alastair Campbell has played a lament on the bagpipes for political figures who were involved in the Good Friday Agreement negotiations but have since died.

His performance came at the end of a live recording of The Rest Is Politics podcast, which took place in the Whitla Hall at Queens University Belfast as part of the Agreement 25 conference marking a quarter of a century since the peace deal.

Im actually in my dotage, started to write and Im going to play a lament, Mr Campbell said.

And it is a lament to Mo (Mowlam), John Hume, Seamus Mallon, David Trimble, David Ervine, and two gentlemen better known as the Chuckle Brothers (Rev Ian Paisley and Martin McGuiness), because at various points they were all involved and they are sadly no longer with us.

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Mr Campbell was chief press secretary at the time of the peace deal negotiations in 1998.

Alastair Campbell played a lament on the bagpipes during an event at Queens University Belfast to mark the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement (Niall Carson/PA)

During the course of the live recording, Mr Campbell discussed forthcoming podcast episodes featuring former US secretary of state Hillary Clinton and former UK prime minister Tony Blair.

Weve also done an interview with Hillary Clinton, he said.

Both she and Tony (Blair) separately made the same point, which I think is something here for the PhD students to think about  would it have been achieved in the way that it was in an era of social media? Im not convinced.

Podcast co-host Rory Stewart, a former UK cabinet minister, also expressed apprehension about the impact of social media.

Ireland Alastair Campbell fears violence in North becoming... Read More

Others have been talking about social media, and the way in which instant tweeting could undermine these kinds of processes, he said.

But I think that same form of social media has increased populism and polarisation around the world, as undermining the authority of the United States, its Western allies, weve seen the rise of China.

He added: Its very, very difficult now to see the re-emergence of peace processes and the global order.
The attack on Irish diplomat Aidan OHara at his home in Khartoum, Sudan sent shock waves through the European institutions, Green Party MEP Ciaran Cuffe has said.

Mr O'Hara, who is the EU ambassador to Sudan after his appointment last year, was assaulted on Monday amid conflict in the country. A European spokesperson later confirmed he was not injured.

The ambassadors safety is paramount at this time. We can always withdraw and then bring back diplomatic personnel to the region, Mr Cuffe told RTE radios Today with Claire Byrne show.

I think it is a real concern and I think that the Minister for Foreign Affairs will certainly be in discussions with [EU high representative for security policy Josep] Borrell, and I think it did send a shock through the European institutions when this news came through yesterday.

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We obviously need to protect our people in order that they can continue to render assistance to some of the most vulnerable people on this earth.

Mr Cuffe said he had been shocked by the news as it was rare that diplomatic staff were the subject of physical abuse.

He added that Mr OHara had been with the Department of Foreign Affairs since 1986, had trained as a lawyer, and had served in France, the UK and the Czech Republic.

Mr Cuffe explained that the ambassador's posting, representing the EU in Sudan, was a very important one: It is a very volatile region, and that came home on Monday.

Essentially there is military rule in that country and there is ongoing conflict that has killed several hundred people over the last few days.

The ambassadors safety was paramount, Mr Cuffe said, and an advisory remained in place for citizens not to travel to Sudan.

It is clearly a developing situation, but with several hundred people being killed, and that includes a lot of civilians in the last few days, I think the ambassadors safety is paramount and not just him, but also those who work with him and the European Union.

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Mr Cuffe highlighted that Mr Borrell said the attack was clearly a breach of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, which states countries must prevent any attack on diplomats, their freedom and their dignity.

This was clearly breached yesterday, so I think there will be a review and we'll see what the outcome of that will be, Mr Cuffe added.

Ireland Micheal Martin 'deeply concerned' by attack on Iri... Read More

Under the Convention, there is an obligation on all countries to protect diplomatic staff, Mr Cuffe explained.

It says very clearly in Article 29 that the diplomatic agents shall be invaluable, and they will not be liable to any attack, but clearly there are deep-seated problems in Sudan.

Over the last 40 years, millions of people have died from famine and from conflict in that region. I think there are huge problems to do with crop failures such as soil degradation.

The European Union has a strong role to play in providing assistance and providing help to countries like Sudan, and I just worry that this attack will obviously disrupt and cause challenges for the work that the European Union is doing, but it is crucial that both the UN, the EU and indeed the African Union work together to try and bring about peace in that very volatile region.
A married couple has brought a High Court challenge over the refusal of the Adoption Authority of Ireland to formally recognise or register the adoption of their daughter which took place in a foreign jurisdiction.

The court heard that over a decade ago the couple, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, lived in a country outside of Europe.

The court heard they adopted their first child from the same foreign country while they were residing in Ireland and that child has obtained Irish citizenship. However, issues arose over the adoption of their second child.

The court heard they moved to the country where they adopted both their children in order to become habitually resident there. While in that jurisdiction, they effected a local adoption which was recognised in that country.

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They moved back to Ireland several years ago, after the adoption took place.

Over the last number of years since their return, they have sought to formally register the adoption of their second child with the Adoption Authority of Ireland.

They claim they have provided details to the Adoption Authority of Ireland to show they were habitually resident in the country when the second adoption took place.

While they have been registered as their second daughter's legal guardians some years ago, the couple claims they remain unable to have the adoption formally recognised here.

They claim their efforts to do so have been rejected on grounds including that they did not fulfil certain legal requirements of Irish adoption laws and that they were not habitually resident in the other country when they adopted their second child.

They have also been found not to have intended to permanently settle in the other country at the time of the second adoption.

They claim the refusal to recognise the foreign adoption is flawed.

In its refusal, they claim the Adoption Authority has incorrectly applied Irish and EU law, has breached their constitutional family rights, and rights under the European Convention of Human Rights.

In their judicial review proceedings against the Adoption Authority of Ireland, Ireland and the Attorney General, they seek various orders and declarations, including a declaration that they are their child's legal parents.

They also seek orders quashing the Adoption Authority's refusal to register the foreign adoption order into the Register of Intercountry Adoptions, and they want the court to order the Adoption Authority to include the adoption on the register.

They further seek a declaration that the refusal to include the adoption on the register was unlawful.

The matter came before Mr Justice Charles Meenan who, on an ex-parte basis, granted the couple permission to bring their challenge.

The matter was adjourned to a date later this year.
The powersharing impasse in Northern Ireland will not be solved by demeaning the concerns of unionists, a DUP MLA has said.

Emma Little-Pengelly told the Queens University conference commemorating the Good Friday Agreement that hers was a party of devolution, and it wanted to get back into government at Stormont.

But she said that could only happen when there was a sustainable basis for governance and a return to the principles behind the landmark 1998 deal of unionist and nationalist aspirations both being respected.

Ms Little-Pengelly was taking part in a debate with the leaders of the four other main Stormont parties. DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson did not participate in the discussion panel.

The DUP is currently blocking devolution in protest at post-Brexit trading arrangements that the party believes have undermined Northern Irelands place within the UK.

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Sinn Fein Party leader Mary Lou McDonald attending the three-day international conference at Queens University Belfast. Photo: Niall Carson/PA.

It has made clear that it needs further legal guarantees from the UK Government on sovereignty before it countenances a return to devolution.

At times audience members at Queens made clear their opposition to the DUPs stance, loudly clapping points made by other party representatives when they criticised the Stormont boycott.

Ms Little-Pengelly insisted unionist grievances were not manufactured and said the conference audience was not representative of the electorate.

The reality is that we need to have a fair deal, she said.

We need to address the issues of unionism, anybody in this hall who thinks its easy to say no, we need to get this right in the face of presidents and prime ministers and pressure and the scoffing and mocking of the DUP, I would say this, in terms of this room, this room doesnt represent the voters that are out there.

The voters that are out there speak to us on the doors all the time, theyre articulating their concerns. I am not here to bow to presidents and prime ministers. I am here to speak for the people and their genuine concerns and to try to get that resolved.

Presenter Mark Simpson, Alliance Party leader Naomi Long and Emma Little-Pengelly take part in the debate. Photo: Niall Carson/PA.

The DUP MLA claimed some messages emerging from the conference marking the Good Friday deal had demeaned or dismissed unionist concerns.

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The DUP is a party of devolution, she added.

We want to get devolution back, and we want to make each of the departments work. We want our citizens to be happy, to be healthy and to be able to live fulfilled lives here in Northern Ireland, there are pathways to do that.

Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald said the concerns of the DUP had been listened to and were reflected in the changes to post-Brexit trade brought about by the UK and EUs Windsor Framework deal.

Ms McDonald said no one has any right whatsoever to disregard the views, the fears, the anxieties of the other.

Directing her comments to Ms Little-Pengelly, Ms McDonald said the DUPs concerns had been heard so loudly and taken so seriously that there have been years of a sustained negotiation.

So the question now has to be, particularly for the DUP, you now arrive at a crossroads, and a moment of decision, she said.

And I sincerely say to you, I really pray that that decision is the right decision, because it seems to be unconscionable that we stay in this limbo and that we drift.

For me the most frightening prospect is drift. We agreed that we have to work together. We all live here. Thats not going to change. That will never change. We have different views. Thats not going to change either.

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What has to change now is that we have the institutions, as imperfect as they are, functioning for everybody.

Emma Little-Pengelly and Ulster Unionist Party leader Doug Beattie. Photo: Niall Carson/PA.

Alliance leader Naomi Long said stability could only be achieved at Stormont if the Good Friday Agreement institutions were reformed to remove the ability of the biggest unionist and nationalist parties to veto governance.

The truth is if we get it up and running again, which I hope we do in short term, theres no guarantee that it will survive because the institutions are not just fragile but unstable, she said.

I think people now feel quite jaded and cynical about the Good Friday Agreement. And I think that is a tragedy, because it is one of the most enduring peace agreements anywhere in the world and we should be proud of it and we should take care of it.

But if we do not deal with the fundamental instabilities, it will wither away and support for it will wither away through frustration and cynicism and that to me would be a scandalous waste of an opportunity for all of us.

Referring to the Ms Little-Pengellys remarks, Ms Long questioned the DUPs support for Brexit.

I do understand why unionism is uncomfortable with the protocol and with the Windsor Framework, but I cant understand how you did not see this coming with Brexit, she said.

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SDLP leader Colum Eastwood, Sinn Fein president Mary Lou McDonald and Mark Simpson. Photo: Niall Carson/PA.

Ulster Unionist leader Doug Beattie said a failure to respect the outcome of last Mays Assembly election and return to government would trample over democracy.

We fought the last election in May on a system of government that we were going to employ and Sinn Fein became the largest party, he said.

If they are not allowed to take their place and if were not allowed to get a government up and running now, then we really are trampling all over democracy here in Northern Ireland.

I say that as a unionist, as a whole UK unionist. What happens in Scotland, what happens in Wales, what happens in England is as important to me as what happens here in Northern Ireland, we are a collection of nations, which makes the Union go forward.

Therefore, if any part of that nation is damaged, is weak, then the whole nation is damaged and weak. And, right now, Northern Ireland is damaged because we have no government.

SDLP leader Colum Eastwood rejected the suggestion that post-Brexit trade had changed the constitutional position of Northern Ireland.

Its very clear that this hasnt changed because if its changed I missed the victory party, he said.

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The people of Northern Ireland, the people of the Republic of Ireland, in concurrent referendum decide what happens, because the UK or United Ireland that is the only basis on which we decide a constitutional future.

Ireland Powersharing surest way to secure North's place... Read More

That means that I have to do some work to convince people that its a good idea to change the constitutional position. But it hasnt changed.

I hear this from the DUP, I sit behind them in the House of Commons, and I hear this all the time about the constitutional position has changed. When did that happen?

He added: Emma talks about exclusion  the only people excluding the DUP are the DUP themselves, you have to opt in.
A Mayo farmer on trial for taking part in a vigilante mob attack on security men at a repossessed farm told gardai he was at the scene of the alleged attack and that it just went out of control.

Martin O'Toole (58), of Stripe, Irishtown, Claremorris, Co Mayo, is charged with false imprisonment of and assault causing harm to four security personnel at Falsk, Co Roscommon on December 16th, 2018.

He is also charged with aggravated burglary and four charges of arson of four vehicles at the property. He is further indicted on charges of criminal damage, violent disorder, robbery of a wristwatch from one of the security guards and, finally, cruelty to an animal which was fatally struck during the incident.

The trial at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court has heard that at around 5am on December 16th, 2018, a group of approximately 30 armed men, some wearing balaclavas, arrived at the repossessed rural property at Falsk, just outside Strokestown and attacked security guards there. The house had been forcibly repossessed five days earlier.

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Co-accused men Patrick Sweeney (44), of High Cairn, Ramelton, Co Donegal; Paul Beirne (56), of Croghan, Boyle, Co Roscommon; and David Lawlor (43), of Bailis Downs, Navan, Co Meath, are each charged with the same offences. All four defendants have pleaded not to the 17 charges put to them.

Garda interviews

On day 20 of the trial on Tuesday, the jury heard details of three interviews of Mr O'Toole by gardai at Castlerea garda station on January 10th, 2019.

Mr O'Toole told gardai that he owned lands in Claremorris and had a few horses and a few cattle. He said he married in 1991 but he now lived alone.

He referred to court proceedings and said he was jailed at one point and that during his incarceration, 20 cattle he had in a shed were left to die. Asked if he and his wife were legally separated, he told gardai: We are married until the day we die  there is a contract and what judges say is shite.

He told gardai, my court is common law, God's law and said that the law in the courts was pirate law, the law of the sea.

Asked about the eviction at Falsk and about vulture funds, Mr O'Toole said: I can see a full-blooded civil war out of this. I can ask you for water but if I havent drank for days, I am going to take it by force.

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He said he had first heard about the eviction online and watched video footage which he said showed men being dragged out of their houses and being bet up.

He said the eviction was people coming in from another country, that was an invasion, that was an international incident. The jury has heard that a number of the security guards were from Northern Ireland.

He told gardai: They were brought in to terrorise people. Your job is to protect us, we have no protection. The guards stood by, that was wrong, wrong, wrong.

Denials

During his second interview, the accused repeatedly told gardai that he wasn't at the property during the attack, saying I was never on the property, I never fired a gun in my life.

In a third interview, he again denied being present. Gardai then showed him footage from a body-cam worn by one of the security guard showing people bursting into the kitchen through a back door wielding sticks and a running chainsaw.

After viewing the footage, Mr O'Toole repeatedly said he wasn't on the footage, saying: That's not me, I wasn't there.

Gardai put it to him that it was clearly him, that he hadn't known the video existed and that either you are in over your head or you organised it.

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You are not assaulting anyone... you came to the house to scare these fellas, run them, Detective Garda Brendan McGrath asked the suspect.

Mr O'Toole then conceded that the man in the footage looks like me and that he did go to the house. He said he went first to the home of another man and they drove their vehicles to a meeting point at Elfin mart.

He said at Elfin somebody gave him a stick to carry and that he was then put into a car with three or four other men all strangers and we were told just where to go. He said their car was last in the convoy of vehicles travelling to Falsk and the driver took a wrong turn and they got lost.

When we got there, it was nearly over, he said. He said he went round the back of the house, saying: I just went in for a look.

Asked if he intended to use the stick he was holding, he said, it was just given to me and that it was more to defend himself with.

He said he saw that they were bringing out the two UDR men or whatever they were.

Ireland Regency Hotel murder trial: The full story of how... Read More

It just went out of control I suppose... I thought it was going to be a show of hands. I just filled in a body and did my job.

I was just doing what I was told, standing up for the people, he told gardai.

Asked what he thought about what took place, he told gardai it was your job to step in [at the eviction], this would never have happened.

The trial continues.
The Minister for Foreign Affairs Micheal Martin has said he is deeply concerned following a serious incident at the home of the EU Ambassador to Sudan, who is Irish.

The current EU Ambassador to Sudan is Irish diplomat Aidan OHara, who was attacked at his home.

Tanaiste Micheal Martin said his thoughts are with an outstanding Irish diplomat.

It comes after days of violence in a battle between the army and a powerful rival force.

Senior EU diplomat Josep Borrell tweeted on Monday evening that the EU Ambassador had been assaulted in his own residency, adding the incident constitutes a gross violation of the Vienna Convention.

Deeply concerned at serious incident at home of the EU Ambassador to Sudan. A gross violation of the Vienna Convention.

Thoughts are with outstanding Irish diplomat serving EU in difficult circumstances, and his family. Call for urgent cessation of violence in Sudan & dialogue. Advertisement  Micheal Martin (@MichealMartinTD) April 17, 2023

Ireland Mary Lou McDonald rejects allegations she used Hut... Read More

Mr Martin tweeted: Deeply concerned at serious incident at home of the EU Ambassador to Sudan. A gross violation of the Vienna Convention.

Thoughts are with outstanding Irish diplomat serving EU in difficult circumstances, and his family. Call for urgent cessation of violence in Sudan & dialogue.
Tanaiste Micheal Martin has affirmed the Irish governments commitment to working with the UK government to guarantee the Good Friday Agreement.

Speaking at Queens University Belfast alongside Britain's Northern Ireland secretary Chris Heaton-Harris, the Tanaiste said the Irish and UK governments had a shared responsibility to the agreement.

The Good Friday Agreement includes provisions for a north/south ministerial council and a British-Irish council to promote co-operation between both governments and the Northern Ireland Executive.

This anniversary of the agreement is a reminder that our shared responsibility, our role as co-guarantors, is not a matter of party, policy or preference, it is a solemn responsibility on our two governments, a treaty responsibility enshrined in the 1998 British-Irish agreement, he said.

And it is a responsibility underpinned by the explicit democratic values and wishes of the people in both parts of this island.

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It is no secret that our two governments have not always acted in concert at all times in recent years. Even today, there are areas where we disagree fundamentally, such as on the Legacy Bill.

But I am delighted to say that our partnership is manifestly better now than it has been for quite some time.

Of course, like everything else of value, it needs continued care, commitment and investment.

Mr Martin also said the Government is committed to all-island co-operation.

This is a small island, regardless of your constitutional preference, it is a shared space, he said.

The geography wont change and there are things that it makes sense to do on an all-island basis.

He added: We are prompting and hosting new conversations, through our Shared Island Dialogue series, about what does it mean to share this island.

Stormont is currently not sitting due to the DUPs protest against post-Brexit trading arrangements.

Mr Martin called for the return of devolved government, saying the UK government stretched themselves to achieve the Windsor Framework.

The past few years, with the practicalities of Brexit, have been turbulent for Northern Ireland, and for these islands, he said.

The European Commission and the UK government stretched themselves in recent months to reach an accommodation that works for Northern Ireland.

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I know that turbulence will take some time to settle, that parties need to pause and reflect internally on next steps.

But I urge all elected officials to take their seats in the Assembly and the Executive and get to work on the questions of everyday life that matter to the people of Northern Ireland, including healthcare, education, policing, regional imbalances and much more.

Micheal Martin speaking during the conference at Queens University Belfast. Photo: Niall Carson/PA.

Mr Martin echoed the sentiment of former US secretary of state Hillary Clinton at the conference yesterday when he called for Northern Ireland parties to find the spirit of the Good Friday Agreement.

Let us recapture and renew that generous spirit of the agreement, he said.

Ireland Powersharing surest way to secure North's place... Read More

Lets make the effort again to see this place and see what has happened through the eyes of those we dont agree with.

When we do, I am certain that we will recognise the potential of the opportunity before us.

The potential of a decade of investment and renewal, the potential of our young people when they are given an education and the chance to thrive, potential that we dare not squander.
Cork City is experiencing hospital overcrowding which is "out of control", according to the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO).

The union has called for a bespoke plan to tackle the issue in the city, where both Cork University Hospital and Mercy University Hospital are experiencing record overcrowding.

On Tuesday morning, there were 92 people waiting on trolleys in Cork University Hospital, the highest figure in the State. Meanwhile, conditions at Mercy Hospital were described as "intolerable for nurses", with 40 patients waiting for a bed.

Nationally, the INMO found there were 613 patients on trolleys.

"Overcrowding in both major hospitals in Cork has become out of hand, with records being broken in both Cork University Hospital and the Mercy today," INMO assistant director of industrial relations for the southern region Colm Porter said.

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"It is clear now that this warrants a national response from the Health Service Executive. The situation in Cork University Hospital is continuing to deteriorate week on week.

"Our members are under significant pressure across all wards. The bed deficit that currently exists in CUH is impacting the ability of our members to carry out the safe care they have been trained to provide to patients."

Mr Porter added that immediate engagement is needed to ensure patients can be discharged into the community without delay and that all available private capacity it utilised.
School closures should be used as a last resort to control the spread of Covid-19 according to researchers as a new study found there was a limited spread of the virus in schools in Ireland during the pandemic.

The study by HSE personnel found that less than 3 per cent of close contacts in school with people infected with the Sars-CoV2 virus during the 2020-21 school year had tested positive for Covid-19.

The school outbreaks that we detected were generally small with 92 per cent of outbreaks each comprising less than 10 cases, said one of the reports authors, Ciara Kelly of the HSEs Health Protection Surveillance Centre.

Dr Kelly said the studys findings showed schools were low-risk settings for the spread of the infection and school closures should be avoided because of the consequences of reduced formal education and socialisation during childrens formative years.

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The study, which is published in a European journal on infectious diseases, Eurosurveillance, acknowledged that the extent to which the virus is spread in schools remains somewhat unclear.

However, it noted that other research had indicated that the spread of Covid-19 in school settings had lower levels of transmission than in the general population.

In addition, it pointed out that extensive transmission of the infection in school settings had been largely suppressed by strict prevention and control measures.

They had been introduced at the beginning of the 2020-21 school year with confirmed cases of Covid-19 advised to self-isolate for a period of 7-10 days.

Close contacts were kept away from school after their exposure to a confirmed case but could return to school if they tested negative for Covid-19 after 10 days and remained asymptomatic.

The study identified 21,727 confirmed cases in 5-18-year-olds in Ireland during the 2020-21 school year, representing 2.4 per cent of that age cohort.

They accounted for 18.2 per cent of all notified Covid-19 cases over the period rising from 15.5 per cent during the first term to 23.9 per cent in the third term.

The study said the increase could be explained by the emergence of more transmissible variants of the disease.

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In total, 100,474 close contacts were tested in 1,771 schools over the same period, with 2,373 confirmed as positive.

It equated an overall positivity rate of 2.4 per cent among all school close contacts.

The highest rate was recorded in special schools at 3.4 per cent and the lowest in post-primary schools at 1.8 per cent with primary schools recording a rate of 2.5 per cent.

Overall students had a significantly higher positive rate than staff at 2.4 per cent compared to 1.8 per cent, with even higher rates for students in primary and special schools.

In contrast, staff had higher positivity rates in secondary schools, although the difference was not considered statistically significant.

Students represented 90.5 per cent of schools close contacts with 9.5 per cent made up by staff.

The study noted that 832 outbreaks of Covid-19 in schools had been notified in relation to 3,665 cases between August 2020 and June 2021.

In addition, 18 schools had been closed on the advice of public health officials as the whole school population in such cases had been identified as close contacts.

The study said 92 per cent of outbreaks involved less than 10 cases with 34 per cent comprising just two cases.

It also revealed that 44.7 per cent of all schools reported at least one confirmed case of Covid-19 who attended school during the infectious period with close school contacts identified.

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The study said making direct comparisons between its findings and the results of international studies was challenging although the close contact positivity rate in Ireland was consistent with the findings of similar research conducted in Norway, Italy, Germany, Australia and the US.

It claimed the higher positivity rate in special schools could be explained by the greater educational and personal care needs of students in such schools which meant they had longer contact time with staff.

It said the significantly lower rate of Covid-19 among school staff identified as close contacts could be due to them being more effective in maintaining control measures such as physical distancing compared to students. In addition, it noted staff were required to wear face coverings in all schools.

The study said information on compliance by schools with control measures should be a priority for future research.

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Dr Kelly said it was possible that the extent of the transmission of the virus in schools might have been overestimated where pupils might have become infected from social activities or transport.

While the majority of close contacts had tested negative, she said such students had lost substantial education time which was compounded by the mandatory closure of all schools in the Republic in early 2021 as a result of the third wave of the pandemic.

A consistent measure in international literature and guidance is that school closures are not primary drivers of Sars-CoV-2 transmission, with any potential benefits of school closures in reducing community viral transmission being far outweighed by the resulting harms to children, said Dr Kelly.

In the event of future pandemics, she said the harms and benefits linked to disrupted education must be carefully considered before reflexively closing classes or schools, while there should also be maximum uptake of any vaccination and a high level of compliance with control measures.
Gerard Hutch found not guilty in the Regency Hotel murder dominates the national front papers today.

The Irish Times leads with a picture of Mr Hutch walking away from the court, as they reveal gardai are still investigating him despite his acquittal.

The Irish Examiner also leads with the trial, alongside a piece reporting the HSE is refusing to cover the cost of patients treatment abroad.

The Irish Daily Star calls the end of yesterday's trial the 'trial of the century', with a picture of Mr Hutch after he left court.

The Irish Daily Mail leads with a warning from gardai that Mr Hutch's life could be in danger in Ireland.

Finally, The Echo leads with calls from the Women of Honour who are calling for a public enquiry into allegations of sexual abuse in the Defence Forces.

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In Britain, a recovering economy, an investigation into the British prime minister and a nationwide emergency text all lead the British newspapers.

The Telegraph says single-sex schools can refuse transgender pupils with teachers not having to call children by their chosen pronouns.

The front page of tomorrow's Daily Telegraph:



'Single-sex schools can refuse trans pupils'#TomorrowsPapersToday



Sign up for the Front Page newsletterhttps://t.co/x8AV4OoUh6 pic.twitter.com/5FFFgUfOE4  The Telegraph (@Telegraph) April 17, 2023

Savers withdraw nearly $60 billion from three banks in the US, the Financial Times reports.

Just published: front page of the Financial Times, international edition, for Tuesday 18 April pic.twitter.com/4BI41LAPxJ  Financial Times (@FinancialTimes) April 17, 2023

The Daily Mail reports on the imminent test of the UKs emergency alarm system.

Tuesday's Mail: So which genius thought it was a good idea to terrify the whole country at 3pm on a Sunday? #BBCPapers #TomorrowsPapersToday https://t.co/YXsBX7vZM4 pic.twitter.com/yFWKWcQhr3  BBC News (UK) (@BBCNews) April 17, 2023

The Daily Express reports the economy is on the mend with positive signs showing a quicker improvement than expected.

Tuesday's Daily Express front page - Reasons to be cheerful! Economy on mend#TomorrowsPapersToday https://t.co/fiyd4BVZ75 pic.twitter.com/uG524ZA0gN Advertisement  Daily Express (@Daily_Express) April 17, 2023

The UK security chief has issued an alert over the threat from China, suggesting Beijing wants supremacy not parity, according to The Times.

The i reports on the investigation into British prime minister Rishi Sunak by the UK ethics watchdog over his wifes shares.

Tuesday's front page: Sunak under investigation by UK ethics watchdog over wife's shares#TomorrowsPapersToday pic.twitter.com/D1HkBhxu1h  i newspaper (@theipaper) April 17, 2023

The Daily Mirror leads with Neville Lawrence warning the people who murdered his son that he will not stop fighting for them to stay in jail until they admit guilt.

Metro reports on Mr Sunaks maths announcement and how he has been investigated over his failure to declare his wifes shares.

Tomorrow's Paper Today 



SURELY SUM MISTAKE, PM?



 Sunak announces plans to make all children learn maths until they are 18

 Then he's investigated over 'failure to declare wife's shares in MPs' register'



#TomorrowsPapersToday pic.twitter.com/4BTxXZxCSV Advertisement  Metro (@MetroUK) April 17, 2023

And the Daily Star says Nasa has warned space travel makes you goggle-eyed.

Tuesday's front page: To boldy go where no visually challenged man has gone before #TomorrowsPapersTodayhttps://t.co/h0NX1ySVJz pic.twitter.com/p9Riq6cfIb  Daily Star (@dailystar) April 17, 2023
A massive landslide has struck a key highway in north-western Pakistan near the border town of Torkham, burying two dozen trucks and killing at least two people.

It was unclear how many people were missing and feared buried under the landslide.

Police official Ishrat Khan said dozens of firefighters and rescuers were trying to save truck drivers and other people hit by the landslide near the Afghan border. Officials said it was triggered by lightning during heavy rain.

At least one truck caught fire when it was struck by lightning, rescuers said.

Rescue workers and volunteers search for survivors. Photo: Muhammad Sajjad/AP.

The injured were taken to a nearby hospital and volunteers joined the search for survivors as authorities dispatched heavy machinery to Torkham to try and remove rocks and other debris.

Bilal Faizi, a spokesman for a state-run rescue service, said two bodies were pulled out and eight people were injured.

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World Death toll soars past 180 as generals battle acros... Read More

Rescuers are very careful because there is a possibility of another landslide but they are risking their lives to pull out those feared trapped, he said.

Torkham border crossing is a key trade route between Pakistan and Afghanistan and a location where landslides often block highways, especially in mountainous areas. It is also a major trade route between Pakistan and Central Asian states.

Last summer, devastating floods caused by monsoon rains killed 1,739 people in Pakistan.
Group of Seven (G7) foreign ministers vowed to intensify sanctions against Russia over its war in Ukraine as they wrapped up their meeting in Japan on Tuesday.

We remain committed to intensifying sanctions against Russia, coordinating and fully enforcing them, the G7 ministers said in a statement.

There can be no impunity for war crimes and other atrocities such as Russias attacks against civilians and critical civilian infrastructure.

Russias irresponsible nuclear rhetoric and its threat to deploy nuclear weapons in Belarus are unacceptable.

British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly, left, and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Photo: Andrew Harnik/AP, Pool.

The ministers also agreed to continue their utmost support for Ukraine.

The G7 ministers from Japan, the US, UK, France, Germany, Canada, Italy and the European Union have underlined that their meeting in Karuizawa marked a crucial moment in the worlds response to both crises, which are seen as challenges to the post-Second World War rules-based international order.

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Global efforts to confront the matters at the United Nations have been stymied by Chinese and Russian intransigence on the Security Council.

World Vladimir Putin visits Russian troops in occupied U... Read More

Leaders and foreign ministers of G7 countries, most recently France and Germany, have recently concluded visits to China, and there is growing worry after China recently sent planes and ships to simulate an encirclement of Taiwan.

Beijing has also been rapidly adding nuclear warheads, taking a tougher line on its claim to the South China Sea and painting a scenario of impending confrontation.

The G7 ministers said that peace and stability between China and Taiwan is an indispensable element in security and prosperity in the international community, and they called for the peaceful resolution of cross-Strait issues.
SNP treasurer Colin Beattie has been arrested in connection with a police investigation into the partys finances.

Police Scotland said the 71-year-old has been taken into custody and is being questioned by detectives.

The arrest of Mr Beattie, who also serves as an MSP for Midlothian North and Musselburgh, is the second in relation to the investigation into how more than 600,000 in donations to the party earmarked for an independence referendum had been used.

A 71-year-old man has today, Tuesday, 18 April 2023, been arrested as a suspect in connection with the ongoing investigation into the funding and finances of the Scottish National Party. https://t.co/crTiTkBNTH pic.twitter.com/Pm3vwsQhqm  Police Scotland (@PoliceScotland) April 18, 2023

Police said the 71-year-old was arrested in connection with the ongoing investigation into the funding and finances of the Scottish National Party.

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World Sunak hasnt done anything sinister over financi... Read More

The force said a report will be submitted to the Crown Office.

Earlier this month, former party chief executive Peter Murrell was arrested and questioned for more than 11 hours before being released without charge pending further investigation.

Mr Murrell is the husband of former first minister Nicola Sturgeon.
SNP treasurer Colin Beattie has been released without charge after he became the second figure in the party to be arrested amid a police investigation into its finances.

The 71-year-old was questioned by detectives on Tuesday and Police Scotland said that evening that he had since been released without charge pending further investigation.

The arrest of Mr Beattie, the MSP for Midlothian North and Musselburgh, comes less than two weeks after former first minister Nicola Sturgeons husband was arrested as part of the same investigation.

Peter Murrell, the former SNP chief executive, was questioned by officers on Wednesday, April 5th as officers searched the home the couple share. He was later released without charge, pending further inquiries.

Update on investigation into Scottish National Party funding and finances.



More: https://t.co/pzmNkCnLuN pic.twitter.com/CS32fxt7aU Advertisement  Police Scotland (@PoliceScotland) April 18, 2023

Police Scotland have been looking into how more than 600,000 in donations to the party earmarked for an independence referendum had been used, but First Minister Humza Yousaf said on Tuesday that he would not be speaking to Ms Sturgeon about the investigation.

Mr Yousaf told journalists at Holyrood: I havent spoken to Nicola in the last couple of weeks, but I will get to speak to Nicola, I am certain I will.

But one thing Nicola and I will not be talking about is the police investigation. That would be wholly inappropriate.

First Minister Humza Yousaf speaks to the media after delivering a statement on Our Priorities for Scotland, in the main chamber of the Scottish Parliament (Jane Barlow/PA)

Scottish Tory deputy leader Meghan Gallacher, however, said Mr Yousaf should tackle this scandal head on and prove he is his own man by suspending both the former first minister and her husband.

Speaking in Holyrood, Ms Gallacher said: The SNP is in total meltdown.

Its former chief executive and now its current treasurer have been arrested amid a police investigation into the partys finances.

And leaked footage has shown Nicola Sturgeon trying to shut down scrutiny.

Her comments came after Scottish Conservative chairman Craig Hoy called for Mr Beattie, Mr Murrell and Ms Sturgeon to be suspended from the SNP.

Mr Hoy said: This extremely serious matter is escalating by the day and everyone in the SNP has a duty to be as transparent as possible about what they knew and when.

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But Mr Yousaf said it was a really important point of natural law that people are presumed innocent until guilty.

He said he would consider the situation if charges are brought by police, saying if that was the case we may well have to take that course of action.

The First Minister stated: Of course if they are guilty I would take the appropriate action, whether that is suspension or going further than that.

But it is really important due process takes place.

Earlier on Tuesday, Police Scotland confirmed Mr Beattie had been arrested in connection with the ongoing investigation into the funding and finances of the Scottish National Party.

A report will be submitted to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, the force added.

An SNP spokesperson said: We have no comment on a live police investigation.

Mr Beattie was the SNPs national treasurer between 2004 and 2020, losing the position to MP Douglas Chapman.

However, Mr Chapman quit the post in 2021, claiming he was not being given the required information to carry out the job.

Mr Beattie reclaimed the post soon afterwards, and reportedly told the partys ruling body on Saturday the SNP would struggle to balance the books  reports that have since been disputed by senior figures including former Westminster leader Ian Blackford.

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There was no sign of police activity outside Mr Beatties address in Dalkeith, Midlothian, on Tuesday morning, or outside his constituency office in the town.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said the SNP is in a real mess.

During a visit to York University, he was asked about the arrest of Mr Beattie.

Sir Keir told broadcasters: The SNP developments are deeply concerning.

Obviously there is a criminal investigation going on, so there is only so much I can say.

But after 16 years in power, it has descended to this  a real mess  and those being let down are Scottish voters, who are entitled to better than this.

Meanwhile, Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar said the news of the arrest meant the SNP was no longer a functioning government.

This is an SNP mired in scandal, mired in division, talking to themselves about themselves, and the crisis that now engulfs the SNP is not just an indication of how they govern their party, but also how they govern our country.
Rishi Sunak has not done anything sinister surrounding his financial interests as he is investigated over a possible failure to make a declaration to MPs, a minister has said.

The British prime minister is facing an inquiry by Parliaments standards watchdog amid claims he did not declare his wifes shares in a childcare agency that benefited from the Budget.

Downing Street insists Mr Sunak transparently declared the shares Akshata Murty holds in Koru Kids as a ministerial interest rather than to the Commons.

But Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards Daniel Greenberg has opened an investigation under rules demanding MPs are open and frank with their interests.

Mr Sunak did not detail the shares when being questioned by MPs on the Liaison Committee about why one of his policies favoured private childcare firms.

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Home Office minister Chris Philp defended Mr Sunak on Tuesday, insisting no-one really doubts Rishis integrity and ethics.

He has declared his wifes interests in his ministerial declaration. He did draw attention to that to the committee when he gave evidence and he also wrote to them subsequently as well, he told GB News.

He will work with the standards commissioner to clear up any questions that are outstanding.

But I dont think theres anything sinister here, he has made his declaration.

The list of ministerial interests has not been updated for nearly a year and Downing Street has declined to set out when Mr Sunak made the declaration.

Rishi Sunak with his wife Akshata Murty, who holds shares in childcare agency Koru Kids. Photo: Ben Stansall/PA.

During the select committee hearing, Labour MP Catherine McKinnell questioned why childminders will get twice the incentive for joining the profession if they sign up with private agencies.

Asked if he had any interests to declare, Mr Sunak responded: No, all my disclosures are declared in the normal way.

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He went on to write to the committee to say he would like to clarify for the parliamentary record that this interest has rightly been declared to the Cabinet Office.

He said the new list of ministerial interests, which has not been updated for nearly a year, will be published shortly.

Deputy Labour leader Angela Rayner said delay has left a transparency black hole which is enabling the Prime Minister and those he has appointed to dodge proper scrutiny of their affairs.
Two Iowa teenagers charged in the beating death of a high school teacher have pleaded guilty to first degree murder.

Willard Miller and Jeremy Goodale both changed their pleas to guilty on Tuesday and admitted helping to kill 66-year-old Nohema Graber, their Spanish teacher at Fairfield High School.

Investigators said the attack was possibly regarding a dispute over grades in Ms Grabers class.

Prosecutors say the evidence shows both Miller and Goodale struck Ms Graber with a bat. Miller admitted helping plan and carry out the killing but has denied ever hitting Ms Graber.

The teachers body was found in a Fairfield park in November 2021 hidden under a tarpaulin, wheelbarrow and railroad ties. The town of Fairfield is home to some 9,400 people and is around 100 miles (160 kilometres) south east of Des Moines.

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Willard Miller talks to his lawyer Nathan Olson during a hearing on March 29, 2023, in Fairfield, Iowa (Kyle Ocker/The Ottumwa Courier via AP/PA)

Prosecutors agreed to recommend a sentence between 30 years and life in prison with the possibility of parole as part of an agreement with Miller. Prosecutors said they would recommend a sentence between 25 years and life with the possibility of parole for Goodale.

Goodale previously agreed to testify against Miller at his trial, which was expected to begin later this week.

Goodale and Miller were both charged as adults because of the severity of the crime, but they were not subject to a mandatory sentence of life without parole because they were 16 at the time Ms Graber was killed. Willard is now 17 and Goodale is 18.

Investigators have said that Miller met with Ms Graber at Fairfield High School on the afternoon of November 2nd, 2021, to discuss his poor grade in her class.

Ms Graber later drove her van to a park where she was known to take daily walks after school, authorities say. Witnesses saw her van leaving the park less than an hour later with two males in the front seat.

The van was left at the end of a rural road. After getting a phone call from Goodale, a witness later picked up Goodale and Miller as they walked to town on that road, investigators say.

In a police interview, Miller described the frustrations he had with the way Ms Graber taught Spanish and over how the grade in her class was lowering his grade point average.
The Kremlin says Russian President Vladimir Putin has visited headquarters of the Russian troops fighting in Ukraine.

A video released by the Kremlin early on Tuesday showed Mr Putin visiting the command post for Russian forces in the southern Kherson region. It showed Mr Putin receiving reports from the top military brass.

He then moved by helicopter to the headquarters of the Russian National Guard in the Luhansk region to hear reports about the situation there.

Mr Putin with Russian defence minister Sergey Shoigu. Photo: Gavriil Grigorov, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP.

Russia took the Kherson and Luhansk regions into its fold along with the Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia regions in September in a move that was rejected by most of the world as illegal annexation.

It was impossible to independently verify the footage released by the Kremlin.

The trip marked a second visit by Mr Putin to the areas that Russia occupied in Ukraine in as many months.

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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 non-profit club linked to Sydney Boys High School is caught up in a global investment scheme that many investors now believe is a dud. The Sydney Morning Herald can reveal The High Club, a non-profit group set up by alumni of the selective public school, holds more than half a million shares in dubious investments Steppes Partners and Australian-based ALT Financial Group. The alumni club is the latest in a string of investors revealed to be caught up in a scheme whereby investors were promised windfall profits on shares they were told would soon be listed. The shares have still not been listed. Tony Lewis, a financial adviser who is part of the High Club. Last month ALT Financial was convicted and fined $123,000 by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission after a series of breaches including failing to produce financial reports to shareholders  or the regulator  since at least 2018. ASIC described the offences as serious and said the fine was one of the largest imposed for those types of breaches. The High Club was established in the 1950s to raise and invest funds for the advancement of education at Sydney Boys High School, and provide scholarships and bursaries for students. A 2021 share register reveals that the club became an investor in ALT Financial Group in September 2016, buying 515,000 shares, four months after financial adviser Tony Lewis joined the High Club board.

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Lewis, an alumnus of the school, along with long-time club president and finance director John Pointing, are listed as holding more than 2 million shares in ALT Financial personally, some in their self-managed super funds. Lewis, a former bankrupt, has worked in the investment industry since 1978, including a stint from 2011 to 2013 at a financial services business run by David Sutton. Sutton sits on the board of ALT Financial and is being investigated by ASIC. In 2022, Lewis was forwarding Sutton emails written by disgruntled shareholders who had formed a support group to share their views on the investment products. David Sutton is being investigated by ASIC. Lewis declined to answer questions about the club, or how he and the club came to invest in the shares. But in an email, he said: I have avoided your phone calls and emails because your enquires are based upon information most likely stolen from ASIC that has apparently been provided to you  Using this information is a breach of my privacy and the privacy of my clients. He outlined penalties, according to Google, of up to $50 million for breaching privacy that he suggested this masthead and the journalists might be exposed to. He emailed again an hour later, saying: I apologise for sending this ill-advised email. The High Club invested in the products, tying up funds in high-risk, unlisted stocks that have not been demonstrated to have any real value.

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This masthead is not suggesting Lewis or anyone advising The High Club knew about any of the problems with the products at the time the investments were made; nor do we suggest Lewis made a commission or otherwise profited from the High Clubs investments in these products. It is also not suggested that Lewis is involved in the operation of the scheme. The revelations form part of a year-long investigation by The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age and 60 Minutes into a global investment scheme - supposedly backed by billions in assets - that has embroiled thousands of investors from Australia and overseas. The investigation found a number of financial advisers were paid hefty commissions of up to 30 per cent to sell products, including Steppes. Tony Lewis declined to answer the Heralds questions. Last week ASIC banned one of the financial advisers, Kris Ridgway, after learning a year ago that he was selling the unauthorised products and earning secret commissions of up to 17 per cent from McFaddens Securities (formerly called Dayton Way), which is run by Sutton. Ridgway was selling the products and pocketing the commissions while working as a senior financial adviser at Shaw and Partners in Brisbane. Ridgway was sacked in February 2022. In a confession to the media investigation, Ridgway said he now believed the products, which included ALT Financial Group and Steppes, looked 100 per cent a sham.

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He said the products were supposed to be listed imminently, but years later, investors were still being strung along. Theyre not providing shareholder statements. Theyre not providing financial updates. Theyre not providing updates as to where the companies are at with its listing. And they try desperately to avoid phone calls and any contact with shareholders or anybody else, Ridgway said. A long-term investment In a statement, The High Club said it invested in Steppes knowing it was a long-term investment and are aware of progress made. It would not disclose how much it paid for the 515,000 ALT Financial or Steppes shares, or whether it had invested in other unlisted shares linked to the international investment scheme. Other investors contacted by this masthead said in 2016 shares in Steppes and ALT Financial were selling for anywhere between 17.5 cents and 75 cents each, depending on the seller and the financial adviser. Based on these prices, the club could have invested between about $90,000 and $380,000. The High Club invests in a range of assets, including non-listed shares, and donates funds to the school in the form of bursaries to students and other financial assistance.

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Pointing, who has been president and finance director of the club since 2013, declined to comment on how the club was introduced to ALT Financial, who it was that brokered the deal, or details of his own purchase of the products. Loading According to a share register, Pointing personally purchased shares in Steppes and ALT Financial in 2016. Lewis is also listed as a shareholder, taking ownership of the shares while employed as an adviser at Sydney-based LEM Securities, where he is still listed as working. LEM Securities said 10 clients had invested in the companies. It said the clients were sophisticated investors and that personal advice was not provided. It also said that the amounts invested by clients was nominal, representing less than 1.5 pe cent of any one individuals investible assets. It said almost two years ago it had provided information to ASIC and its insurer about these products. We, like our clients, are very interested to learn what the true state of affairs are in relation to these companies, it said. At no time has any client made a complaint regarding the conduct of Mr Lewis or indeed us in relation to this matter. The misconduct of Mr Ridgway identified in your articles has no correlation to our internal review of this matter. Pointing, like Lewis, is also not accused of wrongdoing in relation to the investments.

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Almost a year on from the federal governments election, Chinese investment in Australia remains near record lows, despite the recent improvement in the diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Chinese companies invested $US1.42 billion in Australia last year, which was almost triple the investment in 2021. However, it remains the second-lowest level of investment since 2007, when KPMG and University of Sydney began compiling their report, Demystifying Chinese Investment in Australia. The highest year was 2008, when Chinese companies went on a shopping spree, spending $US16.2 billion.

Chinese investment in Australia remains near record lows. Credit: Matt Davidson

In the past month, the thawing of relations between China and Australia has seen two Australian premiers, Victorias Daniel Andrews and Western Australias Mark McGowan, visit China.

A delegation of executives from Australian companies  including Rio Tinto, HSBC Australia, Telstra, Cochlear and Fortescue  will visit next week. The trip, organised by the Australia China Business Council, will be the first industry delegation to China in three years.
The Presbyterian Church of Australia has declared its right to refuse school leadership opportunities to students based on sexuality or premarital sexual activity. This comes in response to the Australian Law Reform Commissions review of discrimination laws.

The Church has reasoned that, in the case of discriminating against students based on sexual preference, gay students would not be able to give appropriate Christian leadership in a Christian school which requires modelling Christian living.

Melbourne Grammar school captain Daniel Cash.

I write this as captain of Melbourne Grammar School. I write this as someone who is gay, a fact about myself which I cannot change. I also write this as someone confused  surely modelling Christian living is not well exemplified in the practice of exclusion or discrimination?

The Christian faith is built on the example Christ set in his life. His revolutionary compassion, so radical then as it still is now  care for the outcasts, the lepers, the unclean  inform the values of Christianity and direct the moral constitution of the Church. Jesus shocked the established powers of his time, his love the instrument of a legacy which left a world faith developing in its wake.
A Perth mum who has spent more than $17,000 on expert reports to prove the seriousness of her daughters disabilities only to have her funding slashed by the National Disability Insurance Agency by $26,000 is pleading with the organisation to reconsider their position.

Lisa Davies is also calling on the Commonwealth to improve NDIS processes by actually meeting applicants in person and employing more empathy during assessments to avoid families ending up in lengthy appeals.

Emily has serious and complex needs that are not being met by her current level of NDIS funding.

Davies daughter Emily has a gene fault that has resulted in a rare syndrome known as DEE64 that causes her severe intellectual and physical disabilities. She is the only known case in Australia and is only one of a few dozen cases known worldwide.

As well as that diagnosis she also has a congenital heart defect known as Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome and has suffered two major strokes that both impacted her movement.
Treasurer Jim Chalmers will have to find billions of extra spending in the federal budget to bring women into the workforce, cover the spiralling cost of aged care services, and respond to a government-commissioned report that calls for $34 billion in extra welfare assistance.

The official womens economic equality taskforce and an independent economic inclusion advisory committee have both urged the government to increase Commonwealth rent assistance, abolish the childcare subsidy activity test and scrap the ParentsNext program.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers, who has just returned from the weekends International Monetary Fund and World Bank round of meetings in the United States, is facing a string of economic pressures on the budget. Credit: Paul Morigi

They independently found that rent assistance  currently capped at $157.20 a fortnight  was not enough to keep up with rapidly rising rents for the 1.3 million households who use it, nor guarantee womens housing security.

The economic inclusion committee, which the Albanese government established last year to provide budget advice to address disadvantage, also said the JobSeeker rate was seriously inadequate for more than one million people and should rise to 90 per cent of the aged care pension.
Ive just sat down for lunch at Kingfisher Restaurant outside Galle in southern Sri Lanka and the waiter asked me if Id like something to drink  in Russian. The open-fronted restaurants, cafes and clothes shops surrounding the beachside restaurant, a doppelganger for Kutas Jalan Legian, sprout signs in Russian as well as English and apart from two or three tables, all the diners in the restaurant are speaking Russian.

Youll find Russian menus and waiters speaking Russian in Sri Lankan beach town Galle. Credit: Getty Images

Id guess their numbers at about 65 per cent of all tourists in Galle at the end of March. Its heading towards low season in Sri Lanka, big rains on the way, and most of the European tourists who are the mainstay of the island nation have left, but not the Russians. Theyre here for the long haul.

Its a particular demographic too, Russians between their early 20s and late 40s. Theyre here because this is preferable to home, where they face the possibility of being conscripted into Putins war machine. Its the same story in Indias Goa, along the coast of Kerala and in Thailand. Europe has tightened the screws on Russian visitors, and Asias beach resorts are an appealing alternative.

In the first two months of 2023, more than 370,000 Russian visitors arrived in Thailand, with beach resorts such as Pattaya, Koh Samui and Phuket seeing huge numbers. According to data from Phuket International Airport, more than 233,000 Russians arrived in Phuket between November 1, 2022 and January 21, 2023. Luxury apartments on the island are now renting at three times their pre-Covid value, and upscale real-estate sales have gone ballistic.
Gunfire and shelling are everywhere, Awadeya Mahmoud Koko, head of a union for thousands of tea vendors and other food workers, said from her home in a southern district of Khartoum. A patient is carried into a hospital in Khartoum, Sudan. Hospitals in the capital are overwhelmed as the city turns into a war zone in fighting between the countrys two top generals. Credit: AP She said a shell struck a neighbours house on Sunday, killing at least three people. We couldnt take them to a hospital or bury them. In central Khartoum, sustained gunfire erupted, and white smoke rose near the main military headquarters, a major battlefront. Nearby, at least 88 students and staff have been trapped in the engineering college library at Khartoum University since the start of fighting, one of the students said in a video posted online. One student was killed during clashes outside and another wounded, he said. They do not have food or water, he said, showing a room full of people sleeping on the floor.

Loading At Khartoum International Airport, several commercial planes were destroyed, satellite images show. Even in a country with a long history of military coups, the scenes of fighting in the capital and its adjoining city Omdurman across the Nile River were unprecedented. The turmoil comes just days before Sudanese were to celebrate Eid al-Fitr, the holiday marking the end of Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting. The power struggle pits General Abdel-Fattah Burhan, the commander of the armed forces, against General Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, the head of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. The former allies jointly orchestrated an October 2021 military coup. The violence has raised the spectre of civil war just as Sudanese were trying to revive the drive for a democratic, civilian government after decades of military rule. Under international pressure, Burhan and Dagalo had recently agreed to a framework agreement with political parties and pro-democracy groups, but the signing was repeatedly delayed as tensions rose over the integration of the RSF into the armed forces and the future chain of command.

The US, the UN and others have called for a truce. Egypt, which backs Sudans military, and Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates  which forged close ties to the RSF as it sent thousands of fighters to support their war in Yemen  have also called for both sides to stand down. A man sits by shuttered shops in Khartoum. Street battles have locked people inside their homes and forced shops to close. Credit: AP US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who is attending a G7 meeting in Japan, spoke by phone with Burhan and Dagalo separately and underscored the urgency of reaching a ceasefire, according to the State Departments principal deputy spokesperson, Vedant Patel. In a joint statement on Tuesday, the G7 foreign ministers condemned the fighting. We urge the parties to end hostilities immediately without pre-conditions, it said, calling for them to return to negotiations and reduce tensions. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi said Cairo was in constant contact with both the army and the RSF, urging them to halt the fighting and return to negotiations.

But both generals have thus far dug in, demanding the others surrender. Satellite images show destroyed aeroplanes in Khartoum International Airport on Monday. Credit: Maxar Technologies/AP The European Unions foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell tweeted that the EU ambassador to Sudan was assaulted in his own residency, without providing further details. EU officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Dagalo, whose forces grew out of the notorious Janjaweed militias in Sudans Darfur region, has portrayed himself as a defender of democracy and branded Burhan as the aggressor and a radical Islamist. Both generals have a long history of human rights abuses and their forces have cracked down on pro-democracy activists. Heavy gunbattles raged in multiple parts of the capital and Omdurman, where the two sides have brought in tens of thousands of troops, positioning them in nearly every neighbourhood.

Loading Twelve hospitals in the capital area have been forcefully evacuated and are out of service because of attacks or power outages, the Sudan Doctors Syndicate said, out of a total of about 20. Four hospitals outside the capital have also shut down, it added in a statement. The New York Times reported one hospital was shelled, and patients told to leave while paramilitary troops took up positions. Hadia Saeed said she and her three children were sheltering in one room on the ground floor of their home for fear of the shelling as gunfire rattled across their Bahri district in north Khartoum. They have food for a few more days, but after that we dont know what to do, she said. Residents said fierce fighting with artillery and other heavy weapons raged on Monday afternoon in the Gabra neighbourhood south-west of Khartoum. People were trapped and screaming inside their homes, said Asmaa al-Toum, a physician living in the area.

Fighting has been particularly fierce around each sides main bases and at strategic government buildings  all of which are in residential areas. Smoke is seen rising from a neighbourhood in Khartoum on Saturday. Credit: AP The military on Monday claimed to have secured the main television building in Omdurman, fending off the RSF after days of fighting. State-run Sudan TV resumed broadcasting. On Sunday, the RSF said it abandoned its main barracks and base, in Omdurman, which the armed forces had pounded with airstrikes. Online videos Monday purported to show the bodies of dozens of men said to be RSF fighters at the base, strewn over beds, the floor of a clinic and outside in a yard. The authenticity of the videos could not be confirmed independently. The military and RSF were also fighting in most major centres around the country, including in the western Darfur region and parts of the north and the east, by the borders with Egypt and Ethiopia. Battles raged around a strategic airbase in Merowe, some 350 kilometres north-west of the capital, with both sides claiming control of the facility.

Loading Only four years ago, Sudan inspired hope after a popular uprising helped depose long-time autocratic leader Omar al-Bashir. But the turmoil since, especially the 2021 coup, has frustrated the democracy drive and wrecked the economy. A third of the population  around 16 million people  now depends on humanitarian assistance in the resource-rich nation, Africas third largest. Save the Children, an international charity, said it has temporarily suspended most of its operations across the country. It said looters raided its offices in Darfur, stealing medical supplies, laptops, vehicles and a refrigerator. The World Food Program suspended operations over the weekend after three employees were killed in Darfur, and the International Rescue Committee has also halted most operations. With the US, European Union, African and Arab nations all calling for an end to fighting, the UN Security Council was to discuss the developments. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said he was consulting with the Arab League, African Union and leaders in the region, urging anyone with influence to press for peace.
Paris: French President Emmanuel Macron is approaching China with a plan he believes could lead to talks between Russia and Ukraine, possibly as soon as mid-year.

Macron has tasked his foreign policy adviser Emmanuel Bonne to work with the top Chinese diplomat, Wang Yi, to establish a framework that could be used as a basis for future negotiations, according to people familiar with the plans.

French President Emmanuel Macron and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing last week. Credit: AFP

As President Xi Jinping stressed, there are no magic pills to solve the crisis, according to a spokesperson from Chinas Foreign Ministry. The spokesperson added that all parties would need to accumulate mutual trust to create conditions for a truce and peace talks.

The French strategy envisions talks between Russia and Ukraine happening as soon as this northern summer if all goes well, said the people, who spoke on the condition of anonymity.
Russias quest to sabotage Ukrainian forces internet access by targeting the Starlink satellite operations that billionaire Elon Musk has provided to Kyiv since the wars earliest days appears to be more advanced than previously known, according to a classified US intelligence report obtained by The Washington Post.

Moscow has experimented for months with its Tobol electronic warfare systems in a bid to disrupt Starlinks transmissions in Ukraine, the top-secret assessment, which has not been previously disclosed, contends.

Ukraine relied on Starlink for communication following a slew of Russian missile attacks. Credit: Getty

The document, among a cache of sensitive materials leaked online through the messaging platform Discord, dates to March and does not indicate whether any of Russias tests have been successful. But the intelligence finding is striking nonetheless as it appears to affirm what observers had only hypothesised previously: that a program ostensibly designed to protect the Kremlins satellites can be employed instead to attack those used by its adversaries.

SpaceX, the firm that owns Starlink, declined to comment. Last spring, Musk briefly addressed the Kremlins attempts to target the technology, writing on Twitter in May that while Starlink had demonstrated its resilience against such jamming & hacking attempts, the Russians appeared to be intensifying their efforts.
A man in upstate New York was charged with murder on Monday, local time, in the killing of a woman who was in a car that mistakenly drove into his driveway, officials said.

The woman and the three friends she was with never got out of the car Saturday night, Washington County sheriff Jeffrey Murphy said at a news conference. They were turning around after realising their error when the man, Kevin Monahan, 65, stepped out of his house, in Hebron, New York, and fired at least two shots at the car, the sheriff said.

Kaylin Gillis, 20, died when she was shot after she and several friends mistakenly drove into the wrong driveway in a rural part of upstate New York, the authorities said. Credit: Facebook

One of the bullets struck the woman, Kaylin Gillis, 20, and the group drove about 10 kilometres to a nearby town before they got through to 911, Murphy said. Emergency services workers responded and performed lifesaving measures on Gillis, but she was pronounced dead, the sheriff said.
UB establishes summer program for South Korean youth

Kim Dong Yeon, governor of Gyeonggi Province, Republic of Korea (left), and President Satish K. Tripathi hold the signed memorandum of understanding at the SUNY Global Center in Manhattan.

Partnerships such as the one we formalize today are particularly exciting for their potential to help cultivate the globally minded leaders that our world needs. 

Fifty college-age youth from South Korea will visit UB this summer as part of a youth ladder program established last week by UB and Gyeonggi Province, the largest province in South Korea.

The program was established with the signing of a memorandum of understanding on April 12 by President Satish K. Tripathi and Gov. Kim Dong Yeon at the SUNY Global Center in Manhattan. SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. was on hand for the signing.

The program will run for four weeks in July and offer the South Koreans an opportunity to learn about U.S. higher education and research universities, American culture and Western New York, as well as interact with UB students and faculty for cultural and intellectual exchange.

The Koreans will be able to develop their language skills, multicultural abilities and global understanding through language study, experiential learning and interaction with U.S. students of similar ages and interests.

UBs English Language Institute will present a custom-designed, theme-based, English language program for the Korean students.

A key component of the program will be daily interaction between Korean and American students, administrators said. The American students will take part in afternoon activities on campus and attend field trips in the community. They will help the Korean students with their English language skills, introduce them to the Buffalo Niagara region and provide unique, personal insights into the life of young adults in the United States.
If theres one thing all Malaysians can say that we love about this country, its the food. From the roadside stalls and inviting cafes to late-night mamaks, so much of Malaysian culture is intertwined with food. In fact, one sure-fire way to gather us together is the promise of food. Perhaps its because our food is as diverse as we are; a melting pot of different cultures and heritage coming together, or maybe, were simple creatures who just love good food.

While food can bring some of us comfort and joy, it can also be a source of anxiety for others. From being responsible for your own meals and eating alone to the more triggering aspects of it such as eating disorders, there are times when food just doesnt seem so appetising anymore.

Theatresauces first production of the year, Come Home and Eat explores this complex and nuanced relationship we have with food through a specifically Malaysian lens. Made up of a diverse cast of races and cultures, various controversial topics boiled to the surface, often to witty and comedic ends. Most Malaysians would be able to use food as a starting point to discuss important conversations that we need to have, shared Kelvin Wong, the director of Come Home and Eat and artistic director of Theatresauce.

Whether it was debating about pork-free school cafeterias, Eurocentric (read: racist) views of our local cuisine or lamenting about the shrinking portions of food at the mamak, everyone would find something they related to at the three-day show. All this is thanks to the production being a piece of devised theatre which means that the actors collaboratively come up with the script themselves based on personal anecdotes. We hope everyone is able to see a part of themselves in this production, added Wong.

Before the big show, we spoke to the castFarah Rani, Kamini Senthilathiban, Nabil Zakaria, Nephi Shaine, Nicholas Augustin and Ryan Yap (Sharanya Radhakrishnan was not present for the interviewon why this production was tantalisingly irresistible, the process of cooking up their stories, spicy actor secrets, and more.

What drew you to become involved in Come Home and Eat?

Nephi Shaine: It talks a lot about home, identity, and belonging. As someone who is 21 and living in Malaysia, I feel like Im currently still figuring it out so the themes really drew me into the play.

Kamini Senthilathiban: Ive always enjoyed Theatresauces productions, I feel that theyre doing work that is very contemporary and relevant. Ive also wanted to work with KelvinIve worked with him beforebut this is a devised piece that feels more organic because its dealing with subject matter thats quite personal.

Nick Augustin: I think it was the relationship between food, diversity and Malaysia that really drew me. It explores the connection between our culture and food because Malaysia is so food-orientated and I relate to that since I cook a lot and love food as well!

Nabil Zakaria: To be honest, its the director! Come Home and Eat is a sequel to last years Dont Like It Here? Then Leave and I watched the show and thought it would be such a fun show to be in. There are a lot of cues, you have to run a lot and change a lot and there are so many elements in just one show. I thought that rush would be exciting so I spoke to Kelvin about my interest in joining something similar and here I am.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nabil Zakaria (@zabilnakaria)

Ryan Yap: The topic of home and belonging are really close to Malaysians. Plus, the cast is really diverse so we get to see things from many different perspectives. Im also glad to be able to share my perspective as well.

Farah Rani: Ive known Kelvin for a very long time since we started around the same periodhe directed a few pieces I was in during the early days and we even spent time in New York together. Furthermore, its been a long pandemic so any chance that I get to be onstage again is special. Working with Kelvin once more is also very nice as well as this group of young and talented actors.

What is it about food that Malaysians love so much?

KS: I think Malaysian food is a representation of us; its made up of different cultures, and different tastes. I feel like you can tell a lot about a person based on the foods that they like and enjoy. Makan time is a time when we get together for a meal and thats huge in Malaysian culture. So, food reminds us of our sense of community as well. Plus, our food just tastes great!

NZ: I dont knowis it the sugar? (laughs) But we definitely have a very deep connection to food. I think other than the food itself, its also the act of having food together. Malaysians are super big on that, we gather for meals all the time from early mornings to suppers. Even asking someone about their day is phrased as Dah makan? which means Have you eaten? So, coming together to enjoy food with each other is something ingrained in Malaysians.

FR: I think its multi-layered. On the surface level, our food is good. But underneath that, what makes our food good is, I think, because of our diversity. And to take that to another level, I personally feel food is about belonging and identity, which is why we get so possessive and argue over it.

NA: Its because its the best in the world! (laughs) Alright, on a more serious note, I think its because food connects us to people. When you eat different cuisines, it immerses you in the culture it belongs to. Food is an easy way to share cultures with one another.

Considering that this production is devised theatre, how have you been preparing for your role?

NZ: In a devised show, the director will first present a theme or idea. The actors will then come up with stories and scripts that relate to the theme during rehearsals, and the director will excavate and develop what works best for the show. As a result, there are a lot of personal stories in Come Home and Eat; I have given out some of my own anecdotes too.

It was definitely a scary process for me, especially with one of my monologues. We did end up adding a bit of fiction to it because I was not ready to do a complete tell-all. So in order to protect me as well, we did fictionalise some parts of the story. But theres a lot of writing and thinking involved in this process about our own experience with food and presenting it to Kelvin to see if he likes it or not to be included in the show.

RY: Because there are many different roles in Come Home and Eat, weve done a lot of research into their backgrounds to make sure theyre as accurate and relatable as possible.

NA: Ive mostly been preparing from the build sessions we have where the other characters get together to collaborate on ideas. Because there are no set characters in the production, its easier in the sense that theres a clear start and stop in each scene. But man, does it get hard sometimesespecially with the monologues. My cast mates are amazing at it but Im still quite new to the scene and it did take some time for me to settle into these characters a bit more.

NS: Surprisingly, there is a lot of physical work and Im not the most physically-inclined actor! (laughs) Theres a ton of movement in this show and the director, Kelvin, is constantly pushing me to go out of my comfort zone.

FR: The whole rehearsal process has been quite interesting since it is a devised piece. We worked collaboratively to bring these stories to life. The preparation has mostly been from rehearsals with the ensemble and finding unique angles within each piece.

Whats one secret you can let us in on as an actor that most people would find surprising?

NZ: That actors can get self-conscious too! As someone who was extremely self-conscious, it was difficult for me to get on stage because I was always thinking about how other people would perceive me while I was performing. So, it took a lot to have me just be myself and be in the zone on stage.

You have to be naked in that sense when in rehearsals and on stage. To be honest, that part will always be scary. I think people who are new to the theatre are not going to realise just how naked theyre going to have to be!

NA: I think its the amount of homework we have to do. Most of the time, people think acting is just memorising a script and going on stage to perform it. But its really not like that at all. Theres a lot of deep thinking involvedin the shower, late at night, the list goes on. Unfortunately for me, I cant turn my brain off as much as I wish I can. Im always looking for inspiration for my characters.

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The Delhi government on Tuesday issued a direction to power regulator DERC to conduct a special audit of discoms over power subsidy released to them from 2016 to 2022.

An order issued by Special Secretary (Power) Ravi Dhawan stated that in exercise of the powers conferred by Section 108 of the Electricity Act 2003, the Lt Governor has given a direction to the Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) for conducting the special audit through Comptroller and Auditor General empanelled auditors.

The special audit of the discoms with respect to the power subsidy released to them will cover the period 2016-17 to 2021-22, stated the order.

The audit will ensure that the subsidies reach the targeted beneficiaries in the most transparent and efficient way, it said.

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POLICE in Masvingo province have opened an indecent assault charge against Chiefs Council president Fortune Charumbira after he allegedly sexually abused his 27-year-old married niece on two occasions, NewsDay has learnt.

The complainant formally filed a report at Masvingo Central Police Station under RRB 5457646 on Saturday last week, but Charumbira, who is also president of Pan-African Parliament (PAP, is yet to be arrested.

According to police, the case will be transferred to Harare where the alleged offence was committed.

Charumbira yesterday addressed traditional leaders in Mashonaland Central province ahead of national Independence Day celebrations today, amid reports that some traditional leaders quizzed him over the issue and he professed ignorance.

Charumbira held a meeting and he just reminded traditional leaders to uphold the gains of Independence. He was also asked by Chief Nembire, who is also a senator in the area about the report, and said he is not aware that there are allegations against him while police have not yet contacted him, one traditional leader said.

When NewsDay called him for comment, he just hung up.

National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said they will issue a statement after todays event.

Its too early for us to comment. Check with us after national Independence Day celebrations, he said.

According to a leaked police memo, Charumbira called the complainant on March 31 this year and invited her for lunch at a top hotel in Harare while she was on her way to Mazowe on school business.

When they were about to leave (the hotel), the accused started caressing the complainant on her breasts. He also put his hand in her dress and kissed her without her consent, the docket partly reads.

Charumbira allegedly later handed his car keys to the complainant saying someone would join her outside the hotel.

It is further alleged that an unidentified male adult who had a badge inscribed Parliament of Zimbabwe later showed up as she was leaving the hotel, took over the car keys and drove her to Mazowe.

On April 2, at around 1pm, while in Mazowe, Charumbira reportedly called the complainant and requested to meet her in the central business district.

The woman allegedly hitchhiked from Mazowe to Harare where she met Charumbira, who drove her to another upmarket hotel after taking away her mobile phone.

The memo said the two spent about an hour in the 18th floor lounge of the hotel where they discussed Charumbiras actions in their previous encounter.

The complainant stood up intending to leave. When she was at the door leaving, the accused dragged her by her hand back into the lounge, the police memo said.

It further alleged that Charumbira later escorted the woman to his vehicle where she secretly recorded their conversation after getting back her phone.

In a leaked recording, Charumbira could be heard soliciting for a kiss which the complainant turned down.

I see more value and benefit in you and we being linked somehow, being friends, being very close friends, private, very close friends, Charumbira is heard saying.

When the need arises, we just get that close, that even intimacy, when there is need and it is convenient for both of us. I see more benefits in that than anything, which is not beneficial.

The complainant then said: Its the hardest thing. I am not good at meeting demands.

Charumbira allegedly pleaded for a kiss, while giving assurances that he did not mean to harm her.

Just a kiss with me Can it make the world collapse? If you refuse, you have killed me. The best goodbye is to kiss me. I am saying it out of love.

There is one decision you made. It never destroyed you. You know better when you did it and with  You had to do it at some point although it was hard for years and . I am saying so because you have kids. Those decisions were very difficult. Kiss me to motivate me.

Observers said Charumbira, a known close ally of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, could have been set up by State security agents after he recently publicly called for a coalition government between the Zanu PF leader and his political nemesis Nelson Chamisa of the Citizens Coalition for Change.

Charumbira made the remarks last month at the burial of Harare mayor Jacob Mafumes mother in Mbetu Village, Masvingo province.

On several occasions, Charumbira has found himself on the wrong side of the national Constitution after publicly pledging his allegiance to the Zanu PF leadership.

High Court Judge Justice Clement Phiri, in May 2018, gave Charumbira a seven-day ultimatum to statements that traditional leaders would support the ruling party in the harmonised elections.

Charumbira, however, repeated his claim that traditional leaders owned Zanu PF during the Zanu PF national peoples conference held in Bindura in October, 2021. Newsday


The foundation highlighted that such policies are likely to result in a reduction in revenue and profitability, which could hamper the growth and sustainability of many startups. The Alliance of Digital India Foundation (ADIF), an industry body representing the developer ecosystem and startups, said that Google needs to reconsider its decision to implement the new Google Play payments policy, as the decision could have far-reaching consequences for the Indian startup ecosystem.



The Indian tech industry has repeatedly expressed its concerns about the malpractices of big tech companies like Google. The abusive anti-competitive practices committed by these companies are adversely affecting the Ease of Doing Business in India. Googles decision to impose a high service fee on Indian app developers is just one example of how Big Tech companies are exploiting their dominant position in the market to the detriment of smaller players, as this would make many startups unsustainable. The 30% commission would apply to all startups, imparting services as In-app purchases or subscriptions. Said a statement from ADIF. Google intends to implement its new Google Play payments policy on April 26, 2023. According to ADIF, Google charging a nearly 30% service fee on app developers will prove to be a significant blow to the Indian startup ecosystem.



The Foundation believes that the Indian tech industry has the potential to become a global leader in innovation and entrepreneurship. However, this potential can only be realized if the industry is supported by a fair and transparent regulatory framework that protects the interests of all stakeholders, including small and medium-sized enterprises. ADIF called on the Indian government and the CCI to take immediate action to address the unfair billing practices of big tech companies and safeguard the interests of Indian app developers. ADIF highlighted the necessity to find a more equitable solution that benefits all stakeholders.

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KFTC had also found that Google has restricted rival search engines from being used as the default search engines on Android devices, and has used its dominance to force app developers to use its payment system. According to ADIF, the latest ruling in South Korea highlights the need for greater scrutiny of the tech giant's business practices in India as well to promote fair competition in the market. Google has been called out for its anti-competitive practices at different instances across the globe. Recently, the company was fined $32 million by South Korea's antitrust regulator for violating the country's competition laws. The Korea Fair Trade Commission (KFTC) found that Google's anti-competitive practices have hindered the development of rivals in the mobile operating system market.



The Indian tech sector has made significant contributions to the Indian economy, creating jobs and driving growth in various sectors. However, the growth of the industry is being hampered by the unfair practices of big tech companies like Google. The imposition of an exorbitant service fee on app developers is just one example of how these companies are stifling innovation and competition in the market. The Foundation believes that Google's monopoly over the app store market, coupled with its unfair billing practices, is a significant concern for the Indian tech industry.

ADIF is committed to working with all stakeholders to find a more equitable solution that benefits the Indian tech industry. The Foundation firmly believes that is vital to implement stronger laws against anti-competitive practices adopted by larger companies to create a fair and competitive market that encourages innovation and fosters growth in the Indian tech industry.






According to a report by the Economic Times, daily orders for the three quick-commerce platforms have increased by 25-50 per cent. Days after Zomato-owned quick commerce platform Blinkit's delivery executives went on a strike over a change in their pay-out structure, its rivals -- Tata-owned BigBasket, Nexus Venture Partners-backed Zepto and Swiggys Instamart -- have seen a surge in orders in the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR).



"Normally, we would have grown by 18 per cent in the same period, he said, adding that similar growth numbers were observed this week as well. The daily orders at the company's quick-commerce vertical, BigBasket Now, increased 46 per cent in Delhi and 61 per cent in both Gurugram and Noida on April 13 and 14 compared with the same days last month, BigBasket chief executive Hari Menon told the ET.



To meet the increased demand, Zepto has hired more than 500 delivery personnel in Delhi-NCR, he said. Another top industry executive said that the orders have jumped 40 per cent at Zepto, while Swiggy's daily orders have increased by more than 25 per cent.

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Trouble at Blinkit

On Monday evening, a Blinkit spokeswoman stated that the company has reopened almost all of its dark stores, from which executives pick orders for delivery. However, the Blinkit app indicated that some stores in Gurugram, Delhi, and Noida were closed.



Blinkit on Monday informed its protesting delivery executives that it was closing several of its dark storefronts in Gurugram and Delhi due to the strike. The delivery executives are seeking a reversal of the pay-out structure, which they claim is causing a reduction in their earnings. "We will continue to engage with all delivery partners to help them understand the new pay-out structure," said the spokeswoman.



The delivery executive's registration with the platform was being terminated, the notification read. Several Blinkit delivery executives in Gurugram and Delhi stated they received a message on the Blinkit delivery partner app informing them that some establishments were being permanently closed because no work had been done in the last 3-4 days.



Why Blinkit's delivery executives are protesting Unlike food-delivery services, where gig-workers are free to transport across regions, riders working with quick-commerce platforms are linked to certain dark stores that they have signed on with.



Delivery executives in Delhi and Noida said some stores were reopening, with some riders breaking off from the strike and delivering in the early morning and late-night hours. However, operations in these stores remained hampered for the majority of the day. Blinkit delivery executives went on strike last week in Delhi, Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Noida after the company changed the pay-out mechanism from a flat Rs 25 per delivery (plus Rs 7 during peak hours) to a minimum of Rs 15 for each delivery with a distance-based component.



Blinkit protest and its effect Early on Monday, a Blinkit spokeswoman stated that only Gurugram and Noida remain majorly affected currently and that the company is working to ensure that riders willing to work in these areas are allowed to work safely.



According to the study, the impact on parent company Zomato would be 0.15 per cent of revenue. An ICICI Securities study released on Monday, stated that Blinkit is estimated to lose 1 per cent of its revenue during the April-June quarter due to the continuing strike.



ICICI Securities said that the change in the payout structure was required for Zomato to reduce costs. As per reports, around 100 Blinkit dark stores were shut temporarily because of the strike. The company has around 400 dark stores, almost half of which are in the Delhi-NCR region.
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The formal employees added under the Employees State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) stood at 1.60 million in February, slightly lower than 1.62 million in January, as per data released by the Ministry of Labour and Employment.

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The enrollment of female members was 1.32 million in January.

It shows that ESIC is committed to deliver its benefits to every section of society, it said.

The employees registered under the scheme are entitled to medical treatment for themselves and their dependents and in case of employment-related disability or death, there is provision for a disability benefit and a family pension respectively.

The ESI Act 1948, encompasses certain health-related eventualities that the workers are generally exposed to; such as sickness, maternity, temporary or permanent disablement, occupational disease or death due to employment injury, resulting in loss of wages or earning capacity-total or partial.

The data showed that around 11,000 new establishments registered under the scheme in the month of February, which is 51.7 per cent lower than 22,800 registered in January.The registration of new enterprises will ensure social security cover to their employees.According to the provisional payroll data, employees up to the age group of 25 years constitute the majority of new registrations, as around 0.74 million employees amounting to 46 per cent of the total employees added in the month belong to this age group.It shows that the youth of the nation are getting good employment opportunities in the country, the ministry said, adding that the payroll data is provisional since the data generation is a continuous exercise.The gender-wise analysis of payroll data of February, 2023 indicates addition of 0.31 million female workers and 49 transgender employees under the scheme.The existing wage limit for coverage under the scheme is Rs 21,000 per month, whereby the employee contributes 0.75 per cent of their wages while the employer contributes 3.25 per cent, which is used to provide medical and cash benefits to the employees and their families.


The volume of EU exports of such technology affected by Indias violations is up to 600 million annually. While this is already significant, the real impact on European companies, which also export from other countries to India, is considerably higher, it added. The European Union (EU) has claimed that up to 600 million of its technology exports to India were adversely impacted annually due to Indias imposition of tariffs on information and communications technology (ICT) products.



On Monday, the dispute settlement body of the World Trade Organization (WTO) ruled that Indias imposition of tariffs on mobile phones and electronic components violates its commitment under the Information Technology Agreement under the multilateral trade body. However, the verdict is unlikely to have any immediate impact as India is likely to appeal against the judgment at the appellate body of the WTO, which remains dysfunctional due to lack of members. Major European technology companies include Ericsson, Siemens, Nokia, and Infineon Technologies, among others.



On May 8, 2021, the EU and Indian leaders agreed to resume negotiations for a balanced, ambitious, comprehensive, and mutually beneficial trade agreement, and to launch separate negotiations on an investment protection agreement and an agreement on geographical indications. Leaders also agreed to link trade negotiations to finding solutions to long-standing market-access issues. Valdis Dombrovskis, executive vice-president and Commissioner for Trade, in a statement, said: I welcome the WTO panels verdict and hope India will act swiftly to remove all illegal tariffs. India is an important trading partner of the EU, although our trade and investment flows are still below their potential. Strict respect by India for its WTO commitments will send a clear and positive signal to European businesses that India provides an open, predictable, and attractive business environment. This is even more relevant at a time when we are negotiating an ambitious trade deal with India, he added.

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The European Commission in a statement earlier this month said while both sides have a deeper understanding of the sensitive issues in the trade chapter, divergences remained. The fifth round of negotiations between the EU and India for a free trade agreement (FTA) will be held in New Delhi from June 19-23. Both sides accelerated work on negotiating texts for an FTA and initiated discussions on the modalities of the exchanges of offers on market access in goods, services, investment, and public procurement during the fourth round of negotiations that concluded last month in Brussels.



In April last year, both sides also established the Trade and Technology Council (TTC), a strategic mechanism to focus on trusted technology and security in the wake of rapid geopolitical changes  a move that is expected to deepen their strategic relationship. Both India and the EU agreed to continue internal discussions to bridge as many differences as possible during the next round, the statement added.
The Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Israel and India will be discussed on Tuesday, Israel's Minister of Economy Nir Barkat said adding that the Indian economy is rising to be the third in the world.

Replying to a media query over FTA between India and Israel, Barkat said, "I'm going to be discussing it with the ministers today."

Talking about the sectors that will figure in their discussions, the minister said the talks will be on wide-ranging sectors to enable more and more trade and "free trade brings people together".

"I assume it should be in what we call there's a new couple of sectors that we provide. For example, agrotech food tech, creating food from the sea, and health tech. These are all tech-related ideas that Israel has a lot to offer, translating into a lot of trade in both directions. So from my perspective, we're coming as open as possible," he added.

He further stated that India's economy was on course to becoming to be the third largest in the world, adding that India and Israel have a "classic" partnership.

The first round of negotiations and talks on FTA was held in May 2010 but the deal came out as elusive.

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Earlier, Barkat attended the India-Israel Business Forum where he said that Indian people are "good friends" of Israel. "We share the same values including democracy, human rights and respect for others, and face similar challenges in security and economy," the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) quoted Barkat as saying.

CII tweeted, "Today, 10% of Israel's labour is tech-oriented. For a small economy like Israel, we need to grow that number to 25% in the next 20 yr. For us to scale to that number, we need to open our markets and India is a great solution for our growth: Barkat."

Noting that the world was moving swiftly ahead, he added, "We need to bring our experience from entrepreneurs & managers back to the #education system. The key factor for speeding growth would be how we transition from old jobs to new ones."

The Israel-India Business Forum was also graced by Israel's ambassador to India Naor Gilon, who said the strategic relations between India and Israel are not only in name but in deed as well.

The bilateral trade between the two nations has increased 40 times since the establishment of formal diplomatic relations in 1992, according to CII.
As he crosses the mud houses and wheat fields around his village to catch a train to distant Mumbai, Sujeet Kumar says he is thinking about the better life that awaits him in India's city of dreams.

The 21-year-old from Jaunpur district, in India's most populous state of Uttar Pradesh, was headed for the country's financial capital, saying he moved out of "compulsion", like hundreds of millions of others before him.

"Mumbai is a city of the rich...whoever goes to Mumbai, their luck changes," Kumar said. "I hope luck smiles on me also there, and I will also make progress."

This internal migration is bound to intensify as India becomes the world's most populous nation, throwing up enormous challenges for the government - managing the strains on urban infrastructure as well as creating 8 million to 10 million jobs every year to absorb its army of young unemployed.

According to 2011 figures, the latest available, India's then population of 1.21 billion people included 456 million internal migrants.

The United Nations had projected India's population would reach over 1.42 billion last week, overtaking China.

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Nearly two-thirds of India's people are under 35 and many of those in the countryside flock to the cities to take whatever job they can - becoming labourers, drivers or helpers in shops and homes. Many are from Uttar Pradesh and neighbouring Bihar state, where populations are rising faster than elsewhere in the country.

"Migrants are always concentrated in more precarious work. Better jobs are not available to migrants and they have very little political power to negotiate wages," said Mukta Naik, an expert on migration at New Delhi's Centre for Policy Research.

"There are not enough jobs, and they are not good enough to attract people for the long term, not good enough wages to invest in housing, to get their children to the cities to study."

Besides the low-paid and difficult-to-get jobs, those arriving in the cities are faced with prohibitive costs of living and a struggle to find a place to live. They are unable to access social welfare benefits and many fall victim to the crime rampant in urban slums.

Abdul Nur, a 37-year-old security guard in Bengaluru, said he left his village in the northeastern state of Assam when he was 17, and has since lived and worked in Chennai, Hyderabad and Mumbai cities.

"When I was in Mumbai, there was too much tension. It was hot, there was crime," he said.

He was in India's financial capital a decade ago, where, he said, it was very tough to live on the 14,000 rupees ($171) he earned a month, with high rents and cost of food.

But even Bengaluru, India's tech capital which is attracting huge numbers of migrants, has become too expensive, Nur said.

"I am sending my wife and child back to the village," he said. "In my salary it is very tough to educate him here. I will live alone now."

GOING BACK

Some of the migrants have become so disheartened they are returning home.

Bhikhari Manjhi, 30, left his village in Odisha state and moved to Bengaluru where he was promised a job as a construction worker with a salary of 10,000 rupees a month. For two months, his contractor paid him 100 rupees every week, promised to pay the rest later, but never did.

"When we demanded our money, we were beaten up," Manjhi said.

Earlier this month, Manjhi walked for about 1,000 km (620 miles) for over seven days with two fellow villagers to return home.

Now, he said: "We live in the forest area, and can earn about 15,000 rupees in a year."

In cities like Bengaluru, more than that can be made in a month. But Manjhi said: "I don't want to go back".

A 2020 International Labour Organization report said migrant workers contribute 10% of India's GDP and serve as the backbone of several sectors. The money they send back reduces poverty at home and improves the well-being of their families, it said.

Experts say the government needs to help create more jobs and ensure they are distributed across the country, especially in the poorly-developed and predominantly rural north and the east.

"Rural India (only) provides jobs in the form of disguised unemployment," said Mahesh Vyas, who heads the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy.

This meant, he said, that even if more jobs are created in agriculture, they do not add to output. And apart from agriculture, the only investment in the hinterlands is in temporary infrastructure projects, which produce short-lived jobs.

The cities, with all their shortcomings, will continue to attract migrants as they remain the best places to offer jobs, he said.

Kumar from Jaunpur echoes that.

Sporting a new haircut and a pair of sunglasses, he shot videos and photos for his social media accounts during a visit to Mumbai's tourist spots.

"I am really liking it here...so much better than my village," he said.

($1 = 81.6360 Indian rupees)
WTO says imports by two of India's top destinations-- North America and Europe-- are set to decline in 2023. While North America imports would decline by 0.1 per cent in 2023, against a growth of six per cent in the previous year, shipments to Europe would dip by 0.6 per cent, compared to a six per cent growth over this period in the previous year.

Though up from one per cent estimated earlier, the growth would nonetheless be lower in 2023 than in 2022.


The bank's board of directors has given it the go-ahead to raise up to Rs 6,500 crore in FY24. There are two components to the capital raising plan. The first is the issue of tier-I capital with fresh equity, which could be in the form of a follow-on public offering, a qualified institutional placement (QIP) or a rights issue. Public sector lender Bank of India is looking to raise equity capital upto Rs 4,500 crore in the current quarter ending June 2023 (Q1FY24) to support business growth.



Bank executives said the preference is to go for an equity offering in the early part of the year (April-June 2023) so that they can concentrate on the business in the rest of FY24. The decision would depend on market conditions. The equity offering will help bring the Centre's stake below 75 per cent from the current level of over 81 per cent at the end of March 2023. As part of this component, the Mumbai-based lender has also taken approval to issue additional tier-1 (AT1 bonds) of Rs 4,500 crore. The second component pertains to the issue of tier-II bonds up to Rs 2,000 crore. The bank may seek shareholders' approval for a proposal to raise capital.



The lender, which has over 5,000 branches across the country, had a capital adequacy ratio of 15.6 per cent, with common equity tier-1 (CET-1) capital of 12.77 per cent, including capital conservation buffer. Till December 31, it reported a robust credit growth of 16.08 per cent YoY. The bank would look at AT1 bonds only if it is not able to raise equity due to factors like market conditions, the executives said.

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Public sector Indian Bank has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Tamil Nadu e-Governance Agency, the city-headquartered bank said on Tuesday.

The agreement is to integrate the Indian Bank Payment Aggregator platform with the e-Governance Applications of various departments in Tamil Nadu.

"With this MoU, all government departments can avail plug and play platform for any payment related needs. The Indian Bank Payment Aggregator platform services shall offer timely and cost effective solutions to departments besides providing citizens and businesses with a seamless payment experience," Indian Bank said in a statement.

Minister for Information Technology and Digital Services T Mano Thangaraj exchanged documents with the bank's executive director Mahesh Kumar Bajaj at an event here on Tuesday.

"This MoU will enable easy access, transparency and quick delivery in services and cater to one of the top priorities of the TN government." Bajaj said.

"Our payment aggregator service will be a one-stop solution for all types of payment collection of various departments of TN government," he said.

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TNeGA chief executive officer Praveen P Nair, chief general manager Deepak Sarda were also present on the occasion, the statement said.
Delhi Urban Development Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj on Tuesday gave an approval to the installation of additional 70,000 street lights in the national capital, officials said.

This will be in addition to the 2.1 lakh street lights that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government had earlier aimed to install in the city, they said.

"In another landmark decision that will make the national capital safer for its citizens, the Kejriwal government is set to install 70,000 street lights in various constituencies of Delhi under the Mukhyamantri Street Light Yojana," the department said in a statement.

Bharadwaj gave the nod to the scheme to install an additional 70,000 street lights, increasing the target from 2.1 lakh to 2.8 lakh, and directed the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB) to complete the project within the timeline, it said.

He said the initiative had been taken after seeing the "tremendous participation" of the residents of Delhi under the Mukhyamantri Street Light Yojana, and therefore it was "decided to install an additional 1,000 street lights in each (assembly) constituency of Delhi".

Delhi has 70 assembly constituencies.

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Bharadwaj said that the Delhi government is committed to ensuring the safety of women.

In 2019, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had announced the Mukhyamantri Street Light Yojana. Under the scheme, the aim was to install 2.1 lakh street lights in different parts of Delhi and the responsibility of installing these street lights was given to three different companies. LED lights of 10, 20 and 40 watt were to be installed under this scheme, the statement said.
Ahead of the G20 summit scheduled to be held in September, the Delhi public works department (PWD) has got down to ensure the desilting of the city's major drains to check waterlogging during monsoon, officials said on Tuesday.

The PWD has begun the work of desilting the drains. The deadline is May 31 for the first phase of desilting, a senior PWD official said.

"Since the G20 summit is going to be held in the city, various zones have been asked to carry out this work," he added.

The PWD zones have also been directed to ensure that the debris is picked up and disposed of immediately and not dumped on the pavements, the officer said.

Lieutenant Governor (LG) V K Saxena, who is actively ensuring the city's preparedness ahead of the G20 summit, had earlier directed officials to ensure that there is no waterlogging during the upcoming monsoon season when certain events related to the summit are scheduled to be held.

A large number of delegates are expected to arrive in the national capital in the coming months for the main summit and events related to it.

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The PWD is responsible for the desilting of bigger drains and the storm water drains on the major roads. It is responsible for the management of more than 2,800 drains in Delhi.


The Netherlands became the first country to legalise same-sex marriage when the Dutch parliament passed a landmark bill in December, 2000 allowing the practise. The Dutch law allowed same-sex couples the right to marry, divorce, and adopt children. The Supreme Court of India is hearing requests to legalise same-sex marriages today. This is a day after the government clarified its stance against any such legal move. The government had said that such requests are "mere urban elitist views of social acceptance."



Among these, 23 countries have legalised same-sex marriage through legislation. Australia, Ireland, and Switzerland legalised same-sex marriages through legislation after conducting nation-wide votes. The Human Rights Campaign Foundation monitors developments in the legal recognition of same-sex marriages globally. Currently, 34 countries in the world grant social recognition to same-sex marriages.



Countries that legalised same-sex marriage last year, 2022 Not all countries have legislative arrangements for same-sex marriage. 10 countries have legalised it through court decisions. These countries include Austria, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Mexico, and Slovenia. At this point, these countries have legislation to support same-sex marriage.

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Cuba legalised same-sex marriage on September 25, 2022, through a national referendum.

Andorra made same-sex marriage legal on July 21, 2022.

On July 8, 2022, the Constitutional Court of Slovenia ruled that the ban on same-sex marriage is in violation of the Constitution of Slovenia and mandated the parliament to pass legislation to legalise the same. The parliament passed the law on October 4, 2022.

Countries that are considering same-sex marriages





Countries that have legalised same-sex marriage The Czech Republic, Japan, the Philippines, Thailand, and India are considering the legal aspects of same-sex marriages. The supreme court of India is hearing petitions seeking legalisation of same-sex marriages.

There are currently 34 countries where same-sex marriage is legal. As per data available on the website of Human rights, countries that legally recognise same-sex marriages include, Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Denmark, Ecuador, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, Luxembourg, Malta, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, the United Kingdom, the United States of America and Uruguay.
Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (KIAB / BLR Airport) reported a 96 per cent growth in passenger numbers during 2022-23 compared to the previous financial year, with 31.91 million passengers travelling through the airport.

The increase can be attributed to post-pandemic operations resumption, as well as the re-introduction of key routes and the initiation of new routes connecting leading business hubs and travel destinations, it said in a statement on Tuesday.

It said of the total, 28.12 million were domestic passengers and 3.78 million international passengers during this period.

It continues to be the number one airport for processing perishable cargo in India for the second consecutive year and the third-ranked airport for handling international cargo in the country since August 2022.

"From a passenger perspective, the highlights of the year have been Akasa's growth story, the launch of Qantas' service to Sydney and the launch of daily Airbus A380 services to Dubai by Emirates.

With the recent launch of Terminal 2 (T2), we are better equipped than ever before, to maintain our standing as the preferred gateway to South and Central India, said Satyaki Raghunath, Chief Strategy and Development Officer, Bengaluru International Airport Limited.

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The airport is now connected to a total of 100 destinations -- 75 across India, and 25 international.

The recovery in air transport movements (ATMs) has been impressive, with a 50.8 per cent overall growth in FY 23, it said.

Major international airlines have reinstated their operations from Bengaluru.

Additionally, the airport has added several international routes, such as Qantas Airways commencing four weekly non-stop Bengaluru-Sydney flights, Cathay Pacific commencing flights on the Bengaluru-Hong Kong route, Jazeera Airways commencing flights on the Bengaluru-Kuwait route, and Malindo Air commencing flights on the Bengaluru-Kuala Lumpur route.

In addition, the airport has also seen the launch of A380 operations by Emirates on one of their daily services to Dubai and the reinstatement of Air India's three weekly, non-stop Bengaluru-San Francisco flights, the statement said.

On the domestic front, Akasa Air launched operations from the airport with 25 daily departures to nine cities across India.

IndiGo remains the leading domestic airline from the airport with 57 per cent market share, followed by the Tata Group airlines, which have a total market share of 27 per cent. Akasa Air in just eight months since the launch of its operations has managed to capture 10 per cent market share of the airport's domestic operations.

The airport has processed 44,143 MT of perishable cargo in the current year till January 2023 (full-year results awaited) and 52,366 MT during FY22, it was stated.
The Bihar government on Tuesday approved Rs 309 crore for soil filling and land levelling work, which would facilitate construction of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) at Darbhanga.

An amount of Rs 309.29 crore for the construction of AIIMS on 189.17 acres of land at Darbhanga was sanctioned by the state cabinet chaired by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. The fund will be utilised for soil filling and land levelling work, S Siddharth, Additional Chief Secretary (Cabinet Secretariat), told reporters.

This is a major step towards facilitating the construction of AIIMS at Darbhanga, he said.

The Union government had in September 2020 granted approval for the AIIMS at Darbhanga, the second in Bihar after Patna, at an estimated cost of Rs 1,264 crore.

Once operational, it will have 750 beds along with various healthcare facilities. The new AIIMS is likely to be completed within a period of 48 months from the date of starting of the project.

Besides, the cabinet also approved the proposal to engage 2,832 constables, who have completed their Promotional Training Courses (PTC), for carrying out investigation at different police stations in the state.

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The BJP on Tuesday fielded Shikha Rai and Soni Pandey for the election of the mayor and the deputy mayor of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), despite not having adequate numbers in the House.

Accompanied by Delhi BJP leaders, Rai and Pandey filed their papers for the polls to the posts of mayor and deputy mayor respectively on Tuesday, the last day of filing nominations.

Rai is the councillor from the Greater Kailash-1 ward, while Pandey represents northeast Delhi's Sonia Vihar ward in the civic body.

Earlier, a top Delhi BJP leader had claimed that the saffron party was not likely to contest the polls as there was a "clear mandate" in the favour of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).

The AAP has re-nominated incumbent mayor Shelly Oberoi and deputy mayor Aaley Mohammad Iqbal for the posts.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders hoped that the councillors in the MCD will elect Rai.

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"The BJP is determined to run a good, clean and strong municipal corporation and we hope that all corporators will elect the experienced senior councillor of the party," Delhi BJP general secretary Harsh Malhotra said.

Rai said she will seek votes from the councillors on the basis of her vision for the MCD. A former vice-president of the Delhi BJP, she gained prominence after joining other leaders of the saffron party in hoisting the tricolour at Srinagar's Lal Chowk in 2011.

A lawyer by profession, Rai is an experienced councillor of the civic body where she held the posts of leader of the House in 2017-18 and chairman of the standing committee in 2018-19.

The one-year term of the MCD mayor begins in April. The post has five single-year terms on a rotational basis, with the first year being reserved for women, the second for the open category, the third for the reserved category and the remaining two again for the open category.

The BJP had contested the election for the post of mayor of the unified MCD in February despite not having the necessary votes to emerge victorious. Oberoi had defeated BJP councillor Rekha Gupta in the February poll by 34 votes.

Iqbal too had defeated his opponent from the BJP.

The AAP won the MCD polls held in December last year. It ended the BJP's 15-year rule at the civic body. The Arvind Kejriwal-led party bagged 134 of the 250 wards, while the BJP got 104.
Admission against vacant seats of pre-primary and primary classes in government Sarvodaya Vidyalayas for the academic session 2023-2024 will be done on a first come-first serve basis from April 24, the Delhi government's Directorate of Education (DoE) said on Tuesday.

According to a circular issued by DoE, seats of students placed under long absence during the current session and not traceable or admitted in another school (with documentary proof) will be considered vacant.

Priority should be given to applicants who have applied for admission on a transfer basis from Sarvodaya Vidyalayas of DoE, it said.

Children residing preferably in the vicinity of one km of the school (if Sarvodaya Vidyalaya is not available in the vicinity, then residents within a radius of 3 km of the school) shall be eligible to apply, the circular said.

The status of vacant seats will be displayed in the school.

Admission will not be denied to any divyang child, destitute child, refugee/asylum seeker, homeless, migrant, orphan or child in need of care and protection in any government school due to non-availability of essential documents at the time of submission of documents in the school, the DoE circular said.

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Provisional admission for 30 days will be allowed based on an undertaking by the parents/guardians, it said.

Cluster Resource Coordinators and school management committee members will help the students in making these documents available to them so that the provisional admission may be regularised within the stipulated time and the students may be able to take the advantage of Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) of scholarships in their bank accounts, the circular said.

The DoE, in its circular, also informed that students admitted under the Plan' or Non-Plan' category during the current academic session will not be considered for transfer by Heads of Schools (HoSs).

It said that the HoSs will manually forward all such applications for transfer to the Zonal Grievance Redressal Committee.

The Committee has been constituted at the Zonal level to look into the issues pertaining to admission and transfer of students within the respective Zones of DoE for admissions.

It said that the deserving cases recommended for transfer will be forwarded manually by DDE (Zone) to DE(District) who will examine these cases afresh and forward online School Leaving Certificate (SLC) requests to the desired schools.

The link for sending online requests of these students will be made available at the level of DDE (District).

The circular said that if certain issues remain unresolved, the Regional Director of Education of the respective region will act as the appellate authority for final resolution.

Not more than 10 per cent of the total admissions will be altered by Grievance Committee and priority will be given to the specially-abled students with certification by a government hospital, student or parent suffering from chronic illness and change of residence after admission, the DoE circular said.

The District Grievance Redressal Committee has been constituted at the district level to look into the issues pertaining to the transfer of such students.
The National Human Rights Commission registered a case of death due to police firing or encounter every three days even during the pandemic.

Assailants shot dead former member of parliament Atiq Ahmed on April 16, triggering a debate on extra-judicial killings. As many as 179 cases were registered in 2018-19, shows annual data from a Rajya Sabha reply in 2022. The analysis considered deaths due to police encounter or police firing. This works out to one case every two days. The number of such killings dropped to 135 in 2019-20 and 113 in 2020-21 amid Covid-19 restrictions. But even that works out to a case every three days. The number of deaths had begun to climb again in 2021-22 (chart 1).

The disposal of cases dropped sharply during the pandemic. The cases that the NHRC disposed of as a ratio of pending cases was 86.4 per cent in 2017-18. This disposal rate fell to 14.7 per cent, shows data for 2021-22. The ratio of pending cases to registered ones has also risen, from 13.6 per cent in 2017-18 to a staggering 85.3 per cent in 2021-22 (chart 2), shows data in the March 2022 reply. The number of pending complaints at the time were 139. A look at the latest NHRC bulletin shows 317 pending cases as of March 2023.

The NHRC has recommended monetary compensation in many cases, according to the Rajya Sabha reply.

Is it time to rethink the collegium system of judicial appointments?

Granular data numbers show that some places have seen a larger increase than others after the pandemic began. Assam saw the number of police firing and encounter death cases rise from seven in 2018-19 to 24 in 2021-22. Jammu & Kashmir recorded 39 cases in 2021-22, from zero in 2018-19.

During the period from 01.04.2016 to 10.03.2022, in 107 reported cases of deaths in police encounter, the NHRC has recommended compensation of Rs 7,16,50,000, it said.
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Tuesday held a meeting with Russian Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov in New Delhi. The two leaders exchanged views on strengthening economic and financial cooperation in to promote bilateral investment and trade.

The Ministry of Finance in a tweet said, "Union Finance Minister Smt. @nsitharamanmet Mr. Denis Manturov, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Industry & Trade of the Russian Federation, today, at New Delhi."

In another tweet, the Ministry of Finance stated, "Both Ministers exchanged views on strengthening economic and financial cooperation in areas of mutual interests to promote bilateral investment and trade."

Denis Manturov, who is also Russia's Minister of Industry and Trade on Monday arrived in New Delhi to co-chair the Intergovernmental Russian-Indian Commission.

On Tuesday, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar attended the 24th meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission (IGC) in New Delhi.

During the meeting, Jaishankar and Manturov discussed cooperation in areas of trade, finance, industry, energy sector, including nuclear power, agriculture, transport, healthcare, education and culture, the Russian Embassy in India said in a tweet.

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At the 24th Meeting of IGC, Denis Manturov said that the trade turnover between Russia and India has exceeded USD 35 billion. The Russian Embassy in India tweeted, "Relations between #Russia and #India continue progressively developing in all directions. In 2022, despite negative external factors, positive dynamics in #RussiaIndia trade prevailed."

In his remarks at the 24th Meeting of IGC, Manturov said, "According to the last year results, the trade turnover between our countries increased by 2.6 times, exceeding 35 bn USD. We have completed ahead of schedule the task set by the leaders of our countries to reach level of bilateral trade of 30 billion USD by 2025."

On Monday, S Jaishankar and Denis Manturov met representatives of Russian and Indian businesses in New Delhi. The business forum participants discussed issues to further enhance Russian-Indian practical cooperation, including within the Intergovernmental Commission (IGC).

Addressing the gathering, Manturov termed IGC a "unique mechanism" for a comprehensive discussion of topical issues on the Russian-Indian agenda.

Manturov said, "The IGC is a unique mechanism for a comprehensive discussion of topical issues on the Russian-Indian agenda with the participation of specialised departments and organizations of the two countries. We are talking not only about trade and economic relations, but also about humanitarian areas of interaction, such as education and culture."

On Monday, Manturov and Jaishankar attended the India-Russia Business Dialogue on Monday. Denis Manturov said that Russia is looking forward to intensifying negotiations on Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with India. On his first day of the visit to India, Manturov also held a meeting with Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal.

Addressing the India-Russia Business Dialogue, Manturov said, "Together with Eurasian Economic Commission, we are looking forward to intensifying negotiations on Free Trade Agreement with India.

He said, "Additionally, we are working on signing of Russia-India Bilateral Agreement for the Promotion and Protection of Investments." Manturov said that Russia has taken effective measures, including import preferences and mechanisms that guarantee the protection of investments that will be in demand among Russian and Indian businessmen.
The government has decided to set up a committee to work on a model buyer agreement to help streamline the homebuying process and protect consumers from potential abuses, among others, a top government official said on Tuesday.

The committee that will draw members from judges, national and state consumer commissions, various consumer bodies, lawyers as well as from the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, is expected to be in place within the next three months, Consumer Affairs Ministry Secretary Rohit Kumar Singh told reporters here.

The official earlier addressed a round table conference on 'How to Effectively Redress the Grievances Pertaining to Real Estate Sector', in the city, hosted by the Department of Consumer Affairs, in association with the Government of Maharashtra.

The problem (dispute between the home buyers and the developer) could be resolved quite to an extent if the contract between a builder and a buyer is standardised and uniformity is brought about.

It should be a unique document, applicable across the country, then maybe it can solve the problem to some extent, Singh said.

"So we have decided to form a committee and a model agreement document between the buyer and the seller, who is the builder, Singh said.

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"We will develop this model agreement, of course, in consultation with all stakeholders (and) then we will submit it to the supreme court and send it to all the states, he said.

He said that the Supreme Court also has a directive that there should be a model agreement for across the country and added that some states already have such a document in place.

According to Singh, over 5.5 lakh cases are pending across various consumer courts in the country, with over 54,000 cases specific to the housing sector alone.

This backlog of cases highlights the importance of providing speedy justice and streamlining the process for homebuyers, according to the ministry.

Delay in delivery of possession of property to homebuyers, no compensation for delay in possession to homebuyers, biased, one-sided, and unfair builder-buyer agreements, amenities not provided to homebuyers as per the agreement and misleading advertisements by developers and influencers for luring homebuyers were identified as the key problems for the homebuyers.

The consumer affairs department also has called a meeting with top 50 influencers in Mumbai on Wednesday to discuss the issue of misleading advertisement, Singh said.

Sending the draft agreement to buyers before execution, clearly mentioning permissions and sanctions obtained from competent authorities on the first page of the agreement and prohibiting builders from launching projects before obtaining all necessary permissions and sanctions, among others, were some of the key suggestions made during the conference, according to the ministry.
Himachal Pradesh Minister Vikramaditya Singh on Monday urged the Centre to include nine roads spanning 1,254 kilometres under the 'Bharatmala Pariyojana', officials said.

Bharatmala Pariyojana is a new umbrella programme for the highways sector that focuses on optimising efficiency of freight and passenger movement across the country by bridging critical infrastructure gaps through effective interventions like development of economic corridors, national corridor efficiency improvement and border connectivity roads, among other things.

Singh met Alka Upadhyay, Secretary, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways in Delhi and submitted a list of the nine roads, including a 90 km stretch of NH-303 from Jawalamukhi to Jassur and 260 km road from Dhalli in Shimla to Tattapani to Ner Chowk and Dadour, which would provide alternate connectivity from Shimla to Mandi and Kullu, the officials said.

The Public Works Department (PWD) minister said this would not only promote tourism but also strengthen road connectivity in the state. He also discussed the condition and progress of various other roads in the state.

Earlier, Singh met Union Minister for Rural Development Giriraj Singh.

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The premier Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) should have zero tolerance for all kinds of discrimination and should provide adequate support to students, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said on Tuesday.

At a meeting of the IIT Council, the apex coordination body of all the 23 premier engineering colleges, Pradhan also said students of the institutes should be the face of the new India and ready to be global citizens.

The council discussed several steps needed to ensure mental health and wellness of IIT students.

It laid stress on the need for a robust grievance redressal system, increasing psychological counselling services, reducing pressure and highlighting the importance of reducing fear of failure and rejection among students.

The council agreed to enhance support to students belonging to Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) communities.

It also resolved to enhance the tenure of support to women PhD sholars for an additional year.

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The crucial decisions were taken at the 55th meeting of the IIT Council, held after a gap of two years. The last meeting was held virtually in February 2021 in view of the pandemic. This is also the first IIT Council meeting chaired by Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

The council looks after the administrative and other key affairs at the IITs. It includes directors and chairpersons of all 23 IITs.


As illegal mining at the ecologically important range continues, hardly anyone is convicted for it, shows data submitted by the Haryana police to the National Green Tribunal (NGT). The destruction of Aravallis, the 692-km-long mountain range starting near Delhi and ending in Gujarats Ahmedabad, due to illegal mining and real estate construction is well known. Some 9 million tonnes of minerals were excavated illegally at the range between 2011 and 2017, according to a 2019 report by the national auditor.



'Business Standard' has reviewed the Haryana polices submission and the data. The police made the submission after the NGT, while hearing a plea by an environmental group called Aravali Bachao Citizens Movement, in March noted a substantial gap in the number of complaints received and FIRs registered. There were 582 complaints against illegal mining in the range in Haryanas Faridabad, Nuh, and Gurugram between January 1, 2017 and January 31, 2023. Only one complaint ended in conviction, according to an affidavit filed by the Haryana police. Of the total complaints received by the Haryana Police in the past six years, 507 were converted into first information reports (FIRs).



In 2002, the Supreme Courts banned mining in the Aravallis in Faridabad, Gurugram, and Mewat (Nuh) to restore the ranges ecology. Aravalli Bachao filed a petition in the NGT in April 2022, alleging that stones were being cleaved off the Aravallis in 16 places in Gurgaon and Nuh despite a Supreme Court ban on mining.

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Tejpal Yadav, an environmentalist in Mahendragarh district of Haryana and a petitioner in cases against stone crushing units, said the low conviction rate is worrying because illegal mining is a threat to the ecology and human life. The Supreme Court, again in an order in 2009, said all mining activities must be suspended till statutory provisions for restoration and reclamation were complied with, particularly in cases where pits or quarries had been abandoned.



A majority of the complaints (303) received by Haryana police related to illegal transportation of minerals, followed by 259 for stone mining and 20 for illegally mined stock. The issue made national headlines in July last year when Deputy Superintendent of Police Surender Singh Bishnoi was crushed by a group of illegal miners fleeing in a truck.

The highest number of complaints were registered in Nuh district (58 per cent), followed by Faridabad (20 per cent) and Gurugram (12 per cent), showed the police data between January 1, 2017 and January 31, 2023.
By Rajendra Jadhav

MUMBAI (Reuters) - Indian mills produced 31.1 million tonnes of sugar since the current season began on Oct. 1, a fall of 5.4% year on year, as many mills closed early due to limited availability of sugar cane, a leading trade body said on Tuesday.

Lower sugar output from India, the world's biggest producer of the sweetener, will leave hardly any surplus for additional exports during the current 2022/23 season.

Out of 532 mills that started operations in the current season, 400 mills closed operations, including all mills from the top producing western state of Maharashtra, the Indian Sugar Mills Association said in a statement.

Maharashtra's production fell to 10.5 million tonnes from 13.7 million tonnes produced a year ago, the association said.

Reuters was the first to report in December on the likely drop in production.

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"The production drop in Maharashtra pulled down the country's total production. There is no scope for additional exports," said a Mumbai-based dealer with a global trade house.

The government allowed mills to export only 6.1 million tonnes of sugar in the 2022/23 season, but Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration was expected to allow a second tranche of shipments.

India's absence from the market could lift global sugar prices, which were trading near their highest level in more than a decade, and allow rivals Brazil and Thailand to increase shipments.

India exported a record 11.2 million tonnes of sugar in the previous 2021/22 season.

India mainly exports sugar to Indonesia, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Sudan, Somalia and United Arab Emirates.

The ISMA in late-January cut its 2022/23 output estimates for the country by 7% to 34 million tonnes from the previous forecast of 36.5 million tonnes. Last year, Indian mills produced a record 35.8 million tonnes of sugar.

But the dealer said the production could fall to around 33 million tonnes and support local prices, which are rising due to peak summer season demand.

(Reporting by Rajendra Jadhav; editing by Uttaresh Venkateshwaran)


GST will be applicable even if employees have been appointed for the company as a whole. Usually, two offices have separate registrations if they are located in two different states. Intra-company services provided by employees of a branch office to the head office or vice versa will attract Goods and Services Tax (GST) if the two offices have separate registrations, the authority for advance rulings (AAR) in Tamil Nadu has ruled.



The case relates to Profisolutions Pvt Ltd which provides solutions in various industries and has its head office in Bengaluru and a branch office in Chennai. The branch office provides support services like engineering, design, and accounting to the head office. The two offices have different GST registrations. Abhishek Jain, national head indirect taxes at KPMG, said such services will attract 18 per cent GST as he warned that the ruling could open the door for litigation.



The company said no invoice is issued and no GST is paid for services provided by employees at the branch office to the head office. Profisolutions said employees are appointed for the company as a whole and not specifically employed for the head office or branch office.

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The AAR ruled that services provided by the branch office to the head office and vice versa, each having separate registration will attract GST. These services include those provided by the common employees of the entity concerned. However, the AAR observed that any supply of services between two separately registered offices of the same entity will be treated as supply between two different persons.



"The ruling could open another Pandora's box on the already existing debate of there being a supply of service from the head office to its branch offices and related valuation," said Jain. There has been debate on whether services provided by two different offices of the same company constitute supply or not under the GST regime. Experts believe that the ruling will accentuate that debate.
The Kerala government on Tuesday made it clear that it has the responsibility to act in accordance with the verdicts of the judiciary and that a suitable location to relocate rogue elephant 'Arikomban' would be identified soon.

Wildlife officials have been asked to find out the new place for the same and submit a report in this regard, Forest Minister A K Saseendran told reporters here.

His statement comes a day after the Supreme Court had refused to entertain the appeal of the state government against the High Court order asking it to translocate the tusker to the Parambikulam tiger reserve in Palakkad district.

The state government wanted the rice-eating elephant to be sent to a training centre, noting it had killed seven people and destroyed several homes, but the apex court observed that the Kerala High Court had given a "reasoned" order based on the views of the expert committee.

"As a government, we have the responsibility to act in accordance with the verdicts of the judiciary. The government will not backtrack from that responsibility. A new location should be identified. Directions have already been given to the wildlife officials to find out a suitable place and report the same," Saseendran said.

If they submit the report by tomorrow, it would be examined thoroughly and after informing the High Court further action would be taken, he said, adding that the issue cannot be prolonged indefinitely.

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On Monday, a bench comprising Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and justices P S Narasimha and J B Pardiwala had taken note of the urgent mentioning of the appeal by the state government and decided to hear it yesterday itself.

After hearing the matter for some time, the bench dismissed the appeal of the state government saying the recommendation to relocate the elephant was made by a committee of experts.

On April 12, the Kerala High Court refused to review its decision to translocate the rice-eating tusker to the Parambikulam tiger reserve.
The Delhi High Court Tuesday asked the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) to file a status report on burial of cattle in the national capital.

The high court was hearing a plea seeking constitution of a team of veterinary doctors in each zone to deal with cases of lumpy skin disease in cattle and to set up isolation wards for treatment of the infected animals.

A bench of Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma and Justice Yashwant Varma granted two weeks to the MCD to place on record the report and listed the matter for further hearing on May 17.

During the hearing, the court was informed that the municipal body has a specialised burial ground for cattle in Gazipur and the responsibility of disposal of animals rests with it.

Advocate Ajay Digpaul, appearing for the MCD, sought time to file on record a report on burial of cattle.

The high court had earlier issued notice and sought the response of the Delhi government and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi to the petition which also wanted direction to be issued to the authorities to make available an antidote to lumpy skin disease among cows. The petitioner sought stray cattle to be vaccinated on priority.

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Petitioner Ajay Gautam said in the plea that immediate action and remedial steps are needed to eliminate the contagious viral disease which has killed nearly 70,000 cattle in the country till date and the numbers are increasing every day.

Direct respondents to immediately constitute a team of veterinary doctors in every zone of Delhi and direct this team to deal and address cases of lumpy disease, the plea said.

Lumpy skin disease spreads among cattle through mosquitoes, flies, lice, and wasps by direct contact and also through contaminated food and water, and causes fever and nodules on the skin, reduced milk production, loss of appetite and watery eyes. The disease can be fatal.

The plea submitted the Centre had said about 70,000 cattle have died so far due to the disease which has spread to Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh.

This disease has knocked the doors of Delhi too and has started affecting cows here. These infected cows strictly need medical treatment at the earliest, the petition said, adding only one isolation shelter has been set up by the authorities in Rewala, Khanpur in South West district for 4,500 cattle, even though there are more than 20,000 to 25,000 stray cows in the national capital.

It said no ambulance service is available for cows to send them to the isolation shelter or any other place. The plea urged the court to direct the authorities to reserve sufficient number of ambulances for dealing with cases.

It said no place has been identified, allotted or proposed by the respondents for burial of the dead cows and sought adequate spaces for this purpose.

Due to sheer apathy and lack of determination on the part of respondents and absence of government infrastructure, the public has been constrained to approach and contact local gau sewaks or NGOs for help and they are treating and burying infected cows, the plea said.


However, the four-time ex-Deputy CM of Maharashtra has dismissed all the rumours of him switching sides and even rubbished his rumoured bid to switch over to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), saying that the BJP is playing 'mind-games'. Several media reports show a difference in the statements from leaders across the spectrum on Ajit Pawar's probable next move. Some even anticipating 'Eknath Shinde-kind' operation on the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP).



Pawar also reiterated that he is very much part of the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) and the MVA is working 'strongly as a united force'. Refuting the reports, Ajit Pawar in a tweet said, "There are some media reports saying that I have convened a meeting of the (NCP) MLAs on Tuesday. This is completely false. I wish to clarify that I have not called a meeting of my party MLAs and office bearers."



"...There is no importance to all these discussions. The reports have no meaning. I can say about NCP that all our colleagues are of one thinking of how to make the party stronger, and there is no other thought in anybody's mind," the party chief said. Reaffirming Ajit's statement, NCP Chief Sharad Pawar said that no meeting of NCP MLAs has been called by anyone, and added that whatever discussions are going on in the minds of the media are not there in "our minds".

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The latest round of speculative reports has been fuelled by a potential adverse situation developing for the ruling Shiv Sena-BJP alliance after the Supreme Court takes its decision on the disqualification of Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and 15 other MLAs. Further clearing his stance, Sharad Pawar said that party's state president, Jayant Patil, is busy with a local election in his region, while Ajit Pawar is busy with the work of the party and providing guidance to everyone.



However, Ajit Pawar has maintained that such reports are an attempt to 'defame' him. He then explained how even after Shinde group's 16 MLAs are disqualified, the current government of BJP+Independents is left with 149 MLAs, and hence the ruling alliance will have a simple majority Reports have also suggested that the BJP may rope in Ajit Pawar to save the government and may even offer him the plum post of Chief Minister - something that he is believed to secretly covet.



Shiv Sena (UBT) chief spokesperson Sanjay Raut also shared the same emotion and said that when he and party President Uddhav Thackeray met Sharad Pawar last week, the latter made it clear that the NCP will not decide to go with the BJP. State Congress President Nana Patole also exuded faith in Ajit Pawar and said, "I have full faith that Ajit Pawar will not make any such move... He will remain with MVA."



However, talking to reporters on the issue, Union Minister Anurag Thakur said that in politics such discussions happen. "In politics, discussions keep happening...some news should be enjoyed," he said. While Sena (UBT) ally and Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA) President Prakash Ambedkar jumped into the cauldron by claiming that there will be "some political explosions" in Maharashtra and India within the next two weeks or so, but preferred to keep it a mystery.



Meanwhile, Ajit Pawar's cousin Supriya Sule hinted at "two big political explosions" in the next 15 days. When asked about the alliance rumors, she sidestepped the issue and said that "only Ajit Pawar can give the answer". While most BJP leaders claimed that they have no knowledge about the issue, state unit chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule dropped a broad hint saying "if the BJP ideology is acceptable to him, then he (Ajit Pawar) is welcome in our party".

In the past

On 23 November 2019, Ajit Pawar was sworn in as Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra State with BJP without his party's consent.
Flight problems and baggage comprised the majority of a total of 347 passenger complaints received by the scheduled domestic airlines during March this year, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) stated in a report.

The air traffic report for March month was released by DGCA on Tuesday.

The report states further that in March, this year, a total of 347 passenger-related complaints were received by scheduled domestic airlines. The number of complaints per 10,000 passengers carried for March 2023 has been around 0.27. The major reasons for complaints are flight problems and baggage, the report states, adding that the airlines received a total of 347 complaints, of which 343 (approx.99 per cent) have been addressed.

Further, according to the aviation regulator, a total of 38.6 per cent of complaints were about flight-related problems, while 22.2 per cent were related to baggage problems. The refund-related problems were just 11.5 per cent.

"Refund and Staff behaviour related complaints have seen significant improvement in the last three months. In January, there were 23.7 per cent of complaints related to refunds have come down to 11.5. Similarly, complaints related to staff behaviour that was 8.9 per cent in January have come to 4 per cent," read the report.

The report states further that the maximum number of complaints were received by Air India (106), followed by Spicejet (100) and IndiGo (66).

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Out of 347 complaints that were received, all except four that are pending Air India and Alliance Air, have been addressed.
Amid the Nandini versus Amul battle in Karnataka, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel stressed on Monday that there is no need to boycott Amul in the southern state.

The row involving the two unions -- Nandini and Amul -- started recently, after the latter announced that it would supply its milk varieties in Bengaluru.

"There is no need to boycott Amul in my view. You keep doing what you want to do. If Amul is snatching something, it is a matter of protest," Patel said.

The opposition Congress and Janata Dal (Secular) in Karnataka have alleged that the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) wants to "kill" Nandini by allowing Amul in the southern state.

They have also expressed their apprehension that a scarcity of Nandini products would be created to make way for Amul to take over.

The Basavaraj Bommai-led BJP government in Karnataka has, however, denied the charge, saying there is no threat to Nandini from Amul.

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Interacting with reporters here, Patel also said Surat has good town-planning schemes.

Noting that there has been an increase in the demand of water and electricity in the city, he said they are moving towards renewable energy to meet the power demands.

"Water is equally important for people and business activities. We have to see what more we can do," the chief minister said.

He also said Gujarat is moving towards natural farming.

"During Covid and post-Covid, we have seen how people aged between 40 and 50 years are going for full-body checkups since diseases like cancer and diabetes are increasing. Earlier, people would think about full-body checkups after turning 50. Similarly, chemicals are destroying the health of the land," Patel said.

Stressing that natural farming is the way ahead, he said even though opposition parties might be raising questions about farming, no farmer has any complaint.

"The farmers are not supporting them. They (opposition parties) can say anything," the chief minister said.
A Judicial member of the appellate tribunal NCLAT has recused himself from hearing a petition filed by tech giant Google, appealing against Rs 936.44 crore penalty imposed by competition watchdog CCI for abusing its dominant position with respect to Play Store policies.

On Monday, NCLAT bench Justice Rakesh Kumar and Alok Srivastava ordered Google's appeal to be listed before another bench of which Justice Rakesh Kumar is not a party.

It has asked the registry of the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) to place it before the Chairman of the appellate tribunal for this.

"List this appeal before a Bench of which one of the Members [Mr Justice Rakesh Kumar, Member (Judicial)] may not be a party. The Registry is directed to place this appeal before the Chairperson, for his approval," the NCLAT bench said.

Earlier, the NCLAT bench comprising Justice Kumar and Srivastava had on January 11 declined to grant interim relief to Google, seeking a stay on the Rs 936.44-crore penalty for abuse of dominant position with respect to its Play Store policies.

It directed Google to deposit 10 per cent of the fine before its registry and posted the matter for hearing on April 17, 2023.

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Similarly, the same bench on January 4 refused an interim stay on another Rs 1,337-crore penalty on the US tech giant by the Competition Commission of India (CCI) for abusing the dominant position of its Android smartphone operating system and asked it to deposit 10 per cent of the total amount.

Both matters were challenged by Google before the Supreme Court.

The apex court sent back the matter related to the Rs 1,337-crore penalty for the Android mobile device case and directed the NCLAT to decide Google's appeal by March 31.

After this, a two-member NCLAT bench comprising Chairperson Justice Ashok Bhushan and Alok Srivastava started day-to-day hearing and passed an order on March 29, in which it handed out a mixed verdict - upholding a fine of Rs 1,338 crore but scrapping conditions like allowing hosting of third-party app stores on its Play Store.

However, on Monday, Google withdrew its petition related to the Rs 936.44 crore penalty with respect to Play Store policies and decided to pursue it before the NCLAT, which is an appellate authority over the orders passed by the CCI.

On October 25, the Competition Commission slapped a penalty of Rs 936.44 crore on Google for abusing its dominant position for its Play Store policies.

The regulator has also directed the company to cease and desist from unfair business practices and carry out various measures to address the anti-competitive issues within a defined timeline.
By Aditya Kalra

NEW DELHI (Reuters) - India's capital New Delhi has rejected Pernod Ricard's application to renew its liquor sale licence, citing ongoing investigations into the company - the latest blow to the French spirits giant in a critical growth market.

The April 13 order from city authorities, seen by Reuters and not previously reported, said the decision was reached after reviewing Pernod's licence application along with "considerable documents" received from investigating agencies in India.

It cited many of the agencies' allegations, including that Pernod illegally made profits by giving false price information and financially supported retailers in exchange for stocking more of its brands, violating rules.

The 12-page order also stated, "Pernod Ricard India Private Limited and its employees had active involvement in the said criminal conspiracy."

The maker of Chivas Regal and Absolut vodka, which has denied any wrongdoing, declined to comment on Tuesday.

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Pernod told a Delhi court in March it has been "suffering massive losses" as its brands have not been available in the city for six months as its licence had been delayed. A judge had given the city two weeks to decide on the matter.

Pernod has the right to lodge an appeal with senior Delhi government officials.

The company counts India as a key market where it has a 17% share and competes with Diageo. While the market share for New Delhi alone is not available, industry sources say that as an urban tourist hub, the city serves as a showcase market for premium brands, making it critical for any liquor company.

Among other regulatory challenges in India, Pernod is also fighting a near $250 million tax demand for allegedly undervaluing imports.

Pernod has operated for more than 20 years across India where licences to operate are granted by states or in this case, the national capital territory, individually and in most cases have to be renewed every year.

(Reporting by Aditya Kalra; Editing by Edwina Gibbs)
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) will probe the case of protests and attempt to vandalise the Indian High Commission in London last month, officials said on Tuesday.

The NIA will take over the case from the special cell of the Delhi Police which had registered a case under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act as it involves unlawful activities carried out by certain people holding Indian nationality abroad.

According to officials, the NIA is mandated to probe any terror case that takes place in foreign land following amendments to the law governing the anti-terror probe organisation in 2019.

Pro-Khalistani protestors tried to vandalise the Indian High Commission in London and pulled down the national flag while holding protests outside the High Commission complex on March 19. It happened a day after the Punjab Police launched a crackdown against radical preacher Amritpal Singh in Punjab.

The Counter-Terrorism and Counter Radicalisation unit of the Ministry of Home Affairs handed over the case to the NIA and the decision was taken after Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla held a meeting with representatives of the British government last week.

In the London incident, the tricolour flying atop the Indian High Commission was grabbed at by a group of protesters waving separatist Khalistani flags and chanting pro-Khalistani slogans, leading to an arrest.

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Officials from the mission said the "attempted but failed" attack had been foiled and that the tricolour was now flying "grander". The Metropolitan Police said two members of security staff sustained minor injuries which did not require hospital treatment.

India had summoned the British deputy high commissioner based in New Delhi and demanded an explanation over the complete "absence of security".

In a strongly-worded statement, the Ministry of External Affairs had said India finds "unacceptable" the indifference of the UK government to the security of Indian diplomatic premises and personnel.

Union Home Secretary Bhalla flagged the issue with a UK delegation which was led by Permanent Secretary, Home Office, Sir Matthew Rycroft and "specifically" conveyed New Delhi's concerns on the misuse of UK's asylum status by pro-Khalistani elements to abet terrorist activities and requested better cooperation, increased monitoring of extremists and take proactive action.

India's concerns over the breach of security at the Indian High Commission were also emphasised in that meeting.
The Karnataka government on Tuesday assured the Supreme Court that for a week further, it would not implement its decision to scrap the 4 per cent Muslim quota in the OBC category in jobs and education.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Karnataka government, contended before a bench of Justices K M Joseph and B V Nagarathna that the state government would require more time to file its affidavit in the matter. Last week, the state government had sought time till Monday to file its response. After hearing Mehta's submissions, the top court deferred the hearing till April 25.

The state government, on April 13, had assured that it will not go ahead with any admission to educational institutions or make appointments on jobs in terms of its March 27 order.

The apex court had made some strong observations against the manner in which the state government scrapped the 4 per cent OBC quota for Muslims and placed them under the Economically Weaker Section (EWS) category, saying the foundation of the decision-making process is "highly shaky and flawed".

The top court had told the Solicitor General, representing the Karnataka government: "Prima facie, we are telling you, the first thing is that the order which you have passed... appears to suggest that foundation of decision making process is highly shaky and flawed... it is on an interim report, the state could have waited for a final report that is one aspect. What is the great urgency?"

Mehta submitted that the court should allow the state government to file its reply in the matter and the admissions will begin in May and nothing is going to happen if matter is heard next week either on Monday or Tuesday.

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"Please allow me to file a reply, these are original proceedings. There was no empirical data as a religion..... they (Muslims) were included on the basis of religion. It is not something extraordinary. Can't it wait till April 17?"

Senior advocates Kapil Sibal, Dushyant Dave, Prof Ravivarma Kumar and Gopal Sankaranarayanan appeared for petitioners L. Ghulam Rasool and others. Dave argued that staying the government order would mean Muslims continue to get the benefit of the reservation of four per cent and "if not, they will lose out in education and employment... Why should we lose out at all ? this notification is per se illegal and unconstitutional."

Sibal said since early 1990s, they were backward and now they put them in general category and after 23 years, Muslims are in general category without a study. This is a direct violation of Article 14, and also the entire notification is violative of Article 14 and it is taking away reservation, he said.

"It is like I am poor, so I will be in the general category", he added.

Dave reiterated there is no study to support scrapping of Muslim quota.

After hearing detailed arguments, the bench said the decision was prima facie based on fallacious assumption and was vitiated as it is based on an interim report of a commission. The petitioners moved the apex court challenging the Karnataka government decision to scrap the Muslim quota.

--IANS

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The heads of Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and the Military Intelligence (MI) have briefed the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) regarding the challenges faced by the military establishment in reference to the provision of security for the May 14 elections in Punjab province, according to sources.

The sources said that the closed door meeting which also included two other apex court judges, lasted for over three hours. It was held at the CJP's chamber.

On April 4, a three-member bench comprising the CJP and the two judges had declared the decision of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to postpone the Punjab elections as unconstitutional and ordered it to hold the polls by May 14.

During the meeting, the three judges were apprised about the serious security challenges in terms of terrorism and ongoing attacks targeting security officials are keeping the troops engaged.

The briefing is also believed to have highlighted about the serious security challenges that would be confronted if elections in Punjab province were held on May 14, as per the apex court's order.

The important closed door briefing holds massive importance as election for the Punjab Assembly have been one of the top demands of former premier Imran Khan and his party members, who had dissolved both Punjab and the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's provincial assemblies in order to force early general election in the country.

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However, the ruling government countered the move by instating a caretaker government setup with a mandate of holding elections in their respective provinces within 90 days.

But since the caretaker setup has taken over, Khan has said that the government has not intention to hold provincial elections within 90 days, adding that the government wants to extend the tenure of the caretaker setup, which is unconstitutional.

On the other hand, the government maintains that it has multiple issues in relation to holding elections within 90 days in the two provinces.

The government states that the country's drained financial situation doesn't allow it to allocate funds to ECP to conduct elections.

It also maintains that as the current population census is underway, the elections would be held after its completion, as new constituencies would be formed as per the new census date.

Moreover, the government also maintains that provision of security for the provincial elections in Punjab is also not possible as the troops are engaged in security of the census teams, adding that the current surge of terrorism in the country also, does not deem the situation fit to have public gatherings, including voting.

--IANS

hamza/ksk/
A special PMLA court here on Tuesday granted bail to Subash Parab, a close aide of fugitive diamond merchant Nirav Modi, in the multi-crore Punjab National Bank (PNB) scam case.

Parab was a deputy general manager (finance) at Firestar Diamond, a firm owned by Modi, and was deported to India from Cairo in Egypt in April 2022.

Special PMLA judge S M Menjonge allowed the Parab's bail plea, citing that it appeared from the bail application that the accused was not beneficiary of the proceeds of crime.

Modi and his uncle Mehul Choksi are accused of duping PNB, a public sector bank, of Rs 13,000 crore using letters of undertaking (LoUs) and foreign letters of credit (FLCs) by bribing its officials at the Brady House branch in Mumbai.

Parab is understood to be a key witness to the letters of undertaking submitted to the bank to siphon off more than Rs 7,000 crore.

India had issued an Interpol Red Notice against Parab to track him down and bring him back.

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In February, he was granted bail in a related case being probed by the CBI.

A LoU is a guarantee given by a bank to Indian banks having branches abroad for the grant of short-term credit to an applicant. In case of default, the bank issuing the LoU has to pay the liability.

The companies of Modi and Choksi took loans from banks abroad using the PNB's LoUs, but did not repay them, thus transferring the liability to the bank.
Most parts of India are expected to see above-normal temperatures and more heatwave days this summer season but the national capital is yet to implement a heat action plan (HAP), four years after the Centre recommended it to do so.

Environment Minister Gopal Rai told PTI on Tuesday that the government is "holding discussions with experts, and a heatwave action plan will be prepared if something concrete emerges".

HAPs are the primary policy response to economically damaging and life-threatening heatwaves. They prescribe a number of activities, disaster responses and post-heatwave response measures to decrease the impact of heatwaves.

Heatwave conditions persisted in parts of Delhi for the third consecutive day on Tuesday.

Greenpeace India has also written to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, urging him to publish a heat action plan by May 7 after consultations with all stakeholders.

The environmental NGO said heatwaves adversely impact thousands of outdoor or construction workers, the elderly and newborns in the capital.

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"HAPs have proven effective in several regions across India, making the lack of action from the Delhi government concerning. With a population of over 18 million, including 11 million people in the informal sector and many migrants from climate-sensitive areas, it is imperative that the Delhi government takes immediate action to release the HAP and protect vulnerable populations from the impacts of heat waves," Avinash Chanchal, Campaign Manager of Greenpeace India, told PTI.

Earlier this month, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted above-normal maximum temperatures for most parts of the country from April to June, except parts of the northwest and peninsular regions.

Above-normal heatwave days are expected in most parts of central, east, and northwest India during this period.

In 2022, Delhi recorded its second hottest April since 1951 with a monthly average maximum temperature of 40.2 degrees Celsius.

The city saw nine heatwave days in April last year, including four in the first 10 days, which was the maximum in the month since 2010.

Delhi had recorded a high of 43.5 degrees Celsius on April 28 and April 29 last year -- the highest maximum temperature in the month in 12 years.

Studies show India is one of the most exposed and vulnerable countries to heat.

Between 1951 and 2016, three-day concurrent hot day and hot night events have increased significantly and are projected to increase up to four times by 2050 under the intermediate and high emission pathways of Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP) 4.5 and 8.5.

RCPs capture assumptions about economic, social and physical changes to the environment that will influence climate change within a set of scenarios. The conditions of each scenario are used to model possible future climate evolution.

Heatwaves are also projected to come earlier, stay longer and become more frequent, with urban heat island effects exacerbating heat impacts. The increased heat is already leading to more heat-related deaths, heat stress, unbearable working conditions, and a wider spread of vector-borne diseases.

By 2050, as many as 24 urban centres are projected to breach average summertime highs of at least 35 degrees Celsius, disproportionately impacting the economically weaker sections.

The International Labour Organisation estimates that 5.3 per cent of working hours, or an equivalent of 34 million jobs, would be lost due to heat stress by 2030.
The US aims to increase visa interview appointments for Indian students by 30 per cent this summer, US Consul General in Mumbai Mike Hankey said here on Tuesday.

He said US consulates processed nearly 1.25 lakh visa applications of students in India.

During his visit to Aurangabad, Hankey held meetings with members of industries. He also visited Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University and interacted with students.

"Last year, we sent more than 1.25 lakh Indian students to the US, setting a new record for Indian students going to the US in a year and establishing India as the leading country of sending students. This year we are trying to increase that number (of students) further," he told PTI.

"Our goal is to expand the number of interview appointments we offer for students by 30 per cent this summer. We hope to welcome more Indian students to the USA," Hankey added.

During his interaction with students, the American envoy appealed to them to visit websites and find an appropriate curriculum for them.

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The US Consulate Mumbai tweeted that Hankey met with conservationist and industrialist Mukund Bhogale to learn about the historical legacy of the Marathwada region, efforts towards the preservation of its heritage, and areas of cooperation with the city's business community.

He also interacted with an industrial delegation over supplying aluminium to support the global aerospace and defence supply chain.


Founded in 1984, C-DOT is a government of India-owned telecom tech development centre. It was founded to design and develop digital exchanges. It recently came into the limelight by developing India's own 4G-5G technology stack. It is software that takes care of end-to-end call control over the network. The stack has been tested for launching 4G services by BSNL. Highlighting the confidence in India's telecom equipment manufacturing capability, Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) chief executive officer (CEO) Rajkumar Upadhyay said that in the next two to three years, India would have "at least 2-3 Ericssons, Huaweis and Nokias". In an exclusive interview with The Financial Express (FE), he said that the Centre has already started receiving interest from other countries for its indigenous technology.



Upadhyay also said that the Centre's push for domestic design and telecom equipment manufacturing will help India compete with global majors. Upadhyay told FE that once the solutions are deployed successfully by BSNL, C-DOT will start partnering with other operators like Vodafone Idea, Bharti Airtel and Jio. He added that C-DOT is also working on 4G-5G radios. It will come up with 5G radios this year.

Which companies dominate the global telecom equipment manufacturing race?

Globally, there are only a handful of companies that account for the lion's share in the global telecom manufacturing market. According to a 2022 report by Dell'Oro, China's Huawei leads the list with 28.7 per cent of the market share of the revenue.

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With a market cap of $205.9 billion, according to companies marketcap, US-based Cisco is the largest telecom equipment company in the world. It is followed by Motorola Solutions and Sweden-based Ericsson with a market cap of $48.8 billion and $20.19 billion, respectively. However, it continues to face problems in the USA and some other countries outside China.

Huawei's troubles

The Chinese company has been under fire in the US since 2019. In May 2019, US President Donald Trump put Huawei and some other Chinese companies on the Entity List. Companies on this list are not allowed to do business with any company in the US.



In 2022, an FBI investigation found that Huawei equipment can be used to disrupt US military communications, including those about the US nuclear arsenal. Some former chiefs of CIA have also repeatedly highlighted that Huawei poses a security threat to US. After this, Huawei smartphones were unable to ship to the US with Google-owned apps. The main accusation against the company was that it used its products to spy on other nations. This was worrisome because it enjoyed close ties with the CCP government in China.



It is also banned in other America-friendly coutries like Australia and Japan. Days after Trump's announcement, Google announced it would comply with the ban. Huawei has tried to get the ban lifted, but success has only been limited so far.



The I-T department had earlier accused Huawei of transferring a major chunk of money to its parent firm in China as dividends. It was around $94 million and trimmed its taxable income in India. A search operation was launched at several premises of Huawei in India to look into the irregularities. In India, too, the company has been under the hammer of authorities for a while now. In 2022, the Income Tax department filed a case against top Huawei Telecommunications (India) officials, including CEO Li Xiongwei and three others, alleging that the company withholds important tax information. The other officers involved are deputy CFO Sandeep Bhatia, tax head Amit Duggal, and transfer pricing in-charge Long Cheng.



Which companies manufacture telecom equipment in India? The company has, however, continued to deny the charges.



However, several Indian firms are indigenously developing telecom equipment in India. The biggest among these is Indus Towers. The second on the list is Tata-backed Tejas Networks. Tejas is working with C-DOT to develop a 4G-5G stack. ITI, HFCL and Black Box are some of the other major telecom equipment companies in India. Several global companies, including Ericsson, and Motorola, have manufacturing centres in India. Chennai is the hub of such manufacturing. Ericsson's facility in the city conducts research and works on global delivery services. Finland-based Nokia has its Global Network Operation Centre for Customers in Asia Pacific Region, Europe, the Middle East and Africa in Chennai.

How is the Centre encouraging telecom equipment production?

In 2021, the Centre approved Rs 12,195 crore production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme for telecom gear manufacturing. It became operational on April 1, 2021. It was expected to attract investments worth Rs 2.4 trillion over five years. 31 companies, comprising 16 MSMEs and 15 Non-MSMEs (8 Domestic and 7 Global companies), were found eligible and approved for the PLI scheme.



The design-led PLI scheme was launched in June 2022, and applications were invited to availing incentives under the PLI Scheme for five years from April 1, 2022. In the Union budget of FY23, the Centre announced another design-led PLI Scheme for telecom and networking products. It provided an additional incentive of 1 per cent over and above the existing incentives for products that are designed and manufactured in India.


What is "Shapella"? Last week, the developers of Ethereum announced that they have completed an upgrade called "Shapella". Called the final milestone in Ethereum's multi-year transition from Proof-of-Work (PoW) to Proof-of-Stake (PoS) consensus, it will make earlier staked Ethereum more liquid.



The upgrade was completed on April 12. The term "Shapella" is derived from the words "Shanghai" and "Capella". These are two of five Ethereum Improvement Proposals (EIPs) that will be upgraded in the process. The upgrade will change the way Ethereum works. EIP-2565, EIP-2929, and EIP-2718 are the other protocols which will be upgraded.

What changed after Shapella?

In September last year, Ethereum underwent a major upgrade called "The Merge", in which the network transitioned from a proof-of-work to a proof-of-stake consensus. Users were rewarded for "staking", and not selling, their Ether and participation in the validation of the network.

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However, it was a one-way street. To date, 18 million Ethereum tokens have been staked on the network, valued at $33 billion. The users were not able to withdraw their holdings. In staking, the investors can freeze their tokens on the cryptocurrency's network. In return, they can earn rewards. The staked tokens are used to develop a system to validate the transactions on the database, unlike PoW, where data has to be entered by miners.



Users were immediately allowed to withdraw their Ether token. Some 57,600 Ether tokens per day can be withdrawn through full withdrawals and partial withdrawals. Shapella has enabled "unstacking" Ether. Shanghai will create a new transaction type that will allow stakers to withdraw their balances, while Capella will enable the network to accept a withdrawal request.



What happened after the Shapella upgrade? Moreover, as it reduces the need to enter data by miners, staking brings down energy consumption. Now with Shapella, more investors will be encouraged to stake their holdings as it will be easier to withdraw.
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Avalon Technologies (Avalon) made a subdued debut with its shares listed at Rs 431 on the BSE, at 1 per cent discount when compared with its issue price of Rs 436 on Tuesday. The listed at par on the NSE.At 10:30 AM; Avalon quoted 5 per cent lower at Rs 415 on BSE. A combined 2.1 million equity shares changed hands at the counter on both the exchanges.The company proposed to use initial public offering (IPO) proceeds towards debt payment, funding working capital requirements and general corporate purposes.Avalon is a fully integrated electronic manufacturing services (EMS) company, catering to global clients into clean energy, mobility, industrial and communications domains. The company earned ~62 per cent (FY22) of its total revenue from exports (mainly to the US) while the rest comes from the domestic market.The companys consolidated revenue grew at a CAGR of ~14 per cent in FY20-22 led by clean energy segment (EV, solar, hydrogen) which grew at ~30 per cent CAGR during the same period. Despite higher raw material costs, the EBITDA margin increased 160 bps to 11.6 per cent supported by savings in employee and other costs. PAT grew ~5.5x to Rs 68 crore tracking one-time gains and EBITDA margin expansion.The brokerage firm believes that since the company is a fully-integrated EMS provider, it has diversified end-user industries and clients, with strategic manufacturing locations. Therefore, the company is likely to benefit from 'Make-in-India' and PLI schemes of the government as it promotes local manufacturing of components, and electronics systems.However, Avalon faces competition from both Indian and global EMS companies like Bharat FIH, Dixon Technologies, Amber Enterprises, Kaynes Technology SFO Technologies, Foxconn, Syrma SGS Technology, Pegatron, Wistron, etc. In order to be preferred by its customers, Avalon will have to maintain its cost efficiency.The competitive nature of the industry may result in substantial price competition. Increased competition could result in significant price competition, reduced revenues, lower profit margins, or loss of market share, any of which could adversely impact Avalons business, analysts at ICICI Securities said in the IPO note.Indias EMS industry is likely to grow at a CAGR of 32.3 per cent from Rs 1,469 billion in FY22 to Rs 4,502 billion in FY26. The EMS market in North America is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.8 per cent from US$91 billion in CY21 to US$114 billion in CY26. Vertically integrated business model to help gain wallet share of customers and enhance market share, manufacturing facilities in the US give a competitive edge, caters to high growth industry verticals such as clean energy and Avalon has long standing relations with its customers are key triggers/highlights of the company, the brokerage firm said.Brokerage firm Choice Broking said that the company is demanding an EV sales multiple of 3.1x, which is at a discount to peer average of 6.3x. Based on FY24E forecasts, the demanded EV sales is around 2.3x, which looks attractive for a company like Avalon, operating in high-growth EMS space, said analysts.
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Shares of Indian Bank rallied 4 per cent to hit over four-year high of Rs 322.5 per share in Tuesdays intra-day trade, amid heavy volumes. The stock traded at its highest level since September 2018, and hit a record high of Rs 428 in November 2017.In the past two trading days, the stock price of state-owned lender surged 12 per cent, as compared to nearly 1 per cent decline in the S&P BSE Sensex.The average trading volumes on the counter jumped nearly three-fold, as around 3.2 million shares changed hands on the NSE and BSE till 11:09 am.Since March 2022, Indian Banks market price more-than-doubled or zoomed 110 per cent from Rs 153.80, on foreign institutional investors (FIIs) buying. The foreign investors increased their stake in the bank for the fourth straight quarter. FPIs doubled or hiked their stake in Indian Bank by 2.5 percentage points to 4.2 per cent at the end of March 2023 quarter. They held 1.7 per cent holding in the PSU bank at the end of March 2022 quarter, shareholding data-pattern shows.Meanwhile, Indian Bank benefited the most from its merger with east-India based Allahabad Bank, in terms of CASA, which stands high at 40 per cent amongst peers. However, CASA is under pressure for most banks due to cannibalisation towards TDs as well as competition from NSS (National Saving Schemes), and other alternative investments.Analysts at Emkay Global Financial Services believe that the bank has been rationalising its branch network since long post-merger, and would now look to expand the network to new SA/retail deposit pockets, for mobilising deposits."The bank will also focus on NRI/HNI deposit pockets, with targeted deposit products. The management understands that such measures will bear fruit in the medium-to-long term and, thus, its immediate focus will be on sweating existing branch network and client relationships, while managing credit growth in sync with deposit growth to maintain ALM," the brokerage firm said.Moreover, the brokerage firm expects the bank to report 0.8 per cent RoA in FY23E and reach 1 per cent by FY24E/FY25E, led by a healthy margin trajectory, improving fees (incl. PSLC) and normalization of credit cost (1.1-1.2 per cent, from a high of >2 per cent)."Additionally, Indian Bank is one of the few PSBs to remain well capitalised, with CET 1 at 13.2 per cent (including 9MFY23 profit), thus, posing no risk of equity dilution for investors, unlike peers. The current MD & CEOs term is till Sep-2024, post which he will be eligible for a 2-year extension before superannuation," the brokerage firm added, retaining a 'buy' on the counter, with a target price of Rs 375 per share.


World Heritage Day's primary objective is to raise awareness of the significance of cultural heritage preservation, such as historic structures, monuments, and archaeological sites. The day also plans to urge individuals to see the value in the variety of the world's legacy and to take part in the preservation and protection of these sites. In 1982, the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) made the proposal for World Heritage Day, which was later approved by the United Nations General Assembly in 1983. April 18 was chosen to be the day that UNESCO adopted the Convention Concerning the Protection of World Cultural and Natural Heritage in 1982.







World Heritage Day 2023: History The concept for World Heritage Day was proposed by the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) in 1982 and was subsequently endorsed by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) during the 22nd General Meeting in 1983. The date of April 18th was chosen to recognize the day in 1982 when the ICOMOS was established. Festivities for World Heritage Day frequently incorporate different exercises like exhibitions, cultural events, and guided tours through heritage sites. The goals of these events are to increase public awareness of the threats posed by climate change, natural disasters, and human activities, as well as the understanding and appreciation of cultural heritage.







World Heritage Day 2023: Importance World Heritage Day is huge as it brings issues to light about the significance of saving cultural heritage and shielding the world's monuments and sites from destruction and decay. World Heritage Day aims to promote participation in the preservation and protection of historical sites and monuments for the benefit of future generations and to raise public awareness of the significance of cultural heritage.

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World Heritage Day 2023: Theme "Heritage Changes" will be the theme for World Heritage Day 2023. ICOMOS says that the UN Decade of Action theme of "Heritage Changes" gives people a chance to answer questions about learning about traditional ways of knowledge systems in relation to climate action and how to use a cultural heritage focus to support equitable climate action protection of vulnerable communities. World Heritage Day was established in 1983 by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to encourage people to recognize the importance of heritage sites and the need to preserve them for future generations. The day also provides an opportunity to promote international cooperation in the preservation of cultural heritage and to recognize the diversity of cultures worldwide.

World Heritage Day 2023: Celebrations



 Plan a walk through your local community to discover cultural landmarks, historic structures, and others. You can invite an expert to discuss each site's significance. There are many ways to plan to go to nearby UNESCO World Heritage Site and celebrate the day. This way you can learn more about the history, and culture of the site and witness the natural beauty

 Volunteer to assist with preservation efforts at a local heritage site. This could incorporate tasks like cleaning, painting, and landscaping.
By Tim Culpan



In July 2008, Apple Inc. opened its first retail store in China, marking the start of a meteoric rise in the country. Fifteen years later, Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook is offering the same blessing to India. Its obvious that the worlds most-valuable company should hang out its shingle in what may already be the globes most populous country, yet theres a cautionary tale not only from its time in China, but from its chief rival.

When hundreds of people queued up for the opening of that first store in Beijing, the nation was barely a blip on Apples revenue radar. By the next financial year, ending September 2009, China plus Hong Kong combined brought in a mere $769 million in revenue, accounting for 1.8% of the global total. Within another two years, the figure jumped to $12 billion, or 11.5%. In July 2008, Apple Inc. opened its first retail store in China, marking the start of a meteoric rise in the country. Fifteen years later, Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook is offering the same blessing to India. Its obvious that the worlds most-valuable company should hang out its shingle in what may already be the globes most populous country, yet theres a cautionary tale not only from its time in China, but from its chief rival.

India is at that point now. Over the past year through March 31, Apples sales in the country climbed around 50% to almost $6 billion, Bloomberg News reported Monday, citing a person familiar with the matter. Thats an impressive jump given the global slump in gadget sales across all categories. Yet its still only 1.6% of company-wide revenue, and around 8% the scale of what the iPhone maker currently gets in Greater China.

In opening two stores this week  the first in Mumbai followed by another in New Delhi  Cooks move could be seen as either driving business in an important market, or simply jumping on the bandwagon of growth that already exists. There certainly seems to be no downside given that hes also pushed suppliers such as Foxconn Technology Group, Wistron Corp. and Pegatron Corp. to ramp up output in the country. While local manufacturing avoids import taxes imposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modis government, exports are also playing an increasing role, with outbound sales of handsets climbing 67% in the 12 months to Dec. 31 to more than $7.1 billion, according to Indias Department of Commerce.

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Its easy to see why the future may be bright for Apple. With its high-priced device appealing to Indias middle class and its enhanced spending power, the Cupertino-based company is building loyalty it can use to sell other products: Airpods and Apple Watch would pair nicely with that sleek new handset. And from there, lure them into a growing array of services which includes Apple Music, Apple TV+, iCloud and more. Samsung, as the prime rival in the Android camp, also makes devices locally and has done well to build a loyal fanbase. Chinese brand Xiaomi dominated the market in India in shipment units last year, followed by Samsung, Vivo, Realme and Oppo, according to Counterpoint Research. Apples not among the leaders until you consider share by value, where the iPhone occupies the premium end. By that metric, the US company is second behind its South Korean nemesis. More importantly, Apple  which has far fewer discrete models than other players  occupied the top three spots with various iterations of the iPhone 13.



Apple has already experienced this in China. In 2015, the region accounted for 25% of total sales, but then started to plummet. The next year, Beijing banned the iTunes and iBooks stores, and growing nationalism, combined with rising tensions with the US, saw the Apple brand lose some of its shine. Yet no company has suffered more at the hands of consumer backlash than Samsung Electronics Co. Theres a lot to navigate along the way, though. India is far behind China in key aspects important for manufacturing that include infrastructure, bureaucracy, attention to detail, and even a sense of urgency. If Apple is to rely on India for domestic supply, and demand rises quicker than output, then growth could be hit. Yet even as these issues get ironed out, a greater degree of political risk starts to emerge. Further revelations of poor worker conditions, or an uprising at a local factory, could sour Indias populace toward the American giant.



For a while, Samsung enjoyed leadership in both value and shipments, a sign it was hitting just the right price points to garner broad appeal from Chinese consumers. But Huawei got stronger, Xiaomi moved from cheap to premium, and then in 2016 dozens of Samsung Note 7 handsets started to randomly catch fire across the planet. Within a few years much of the world forgave Samsung and started buying again, but not China. That the South Korean company didnt issue a local recall for this model exacerbated the antipathy among buyers. Before long Samsung just wasnt cool anymore. When Apples first China store opened, the coolest names in smartphones were Nokia, HTC, Motorola and Samsung. Not long after, the first three started to decline but Samsung stuck around. By 2013, Samsung had taken the lead with Huawei Technologies Co. a rising challenger and Apple enjoying its niche atop the premium list. As with India recently, iPhones were not the leader by shipments but tended to dominate by value.
The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation paused its use of Twitter on Monday after the social media platform owned by Elon Musk stamped CBC's account with a label the public broadcaster says is intended to undermine its credibility.

Twitter labelled CBC/Radio-Canada "government-funded media" the same label that prompted National Public Radio in the US to similarly quit Twitter last Wednesday.

Twitter can be a powerful tool for our journalists to communicate with Canadians, but it undermines the accuracy and professionalism of the work they do to allow our independence to be falsely described in this way, CBC spokesman Leon Mar said in a statement announcing the change Monday afternoon.

Consequently, we will be pausing our activity on our corporate Twitter account and all CBC and Radio-Canada news-related accounts," the statement said.

CBC has sent a letter to Twitter asking the company to re-examine the designation.

CBC does not meet those criteria, Mar argued, because it is publicly funded through a parliamentary appropriation that is voted upon by all members of Parliament, and its editorial independence is protected in law in the Broadcasting Act.

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The CBC's board of directors determines how the funding it receives is spent. In 2021-22, the CBC received more than $1.2 billion Canadian (US$900 million) in government funding.

Opposition Conservative Party of Canada Pierre Poilievre had urged Twitter to label CBC. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau criticised Poilievre for what he called an attack on a foundational Canadian institution.

Twitter initially had labelled NPR's main account as state-affiliated media, a term also used to identify media outlets controlled or heavily influenced by authoritarian governments, such as Russia and China. Twitter later changed the label to government-funded media, but to NPR which relies on the government for a tiny fraction of its funding it's still misleading.

Twitter responded to a request for comment about why the label was applied and whether it would be removed or changed with an auto-generated email bearing a poop emoji.

Twitter, more than any of its rivals, has said its users come to it to keep track of current events. That made it an attractive place for news outlets to share their stories and reinforced Twitter's moves to combat the spread of misinformation. But Musk has long expressed disdain for professional journalists and said he wants to elevate the views and expertise of the average citizen.
Foreign ministers of the Group of Seven nations on Tuesday reiterated the importance of a "free and open Indo-Pacific" and cooperating with India as well as reaffirmed their commitment to promoting cooperation in line with the ASEAN outlook on the Indo-Pacific.

The comments mark the culmination of a three-day long meeting that were held in Karuizawa, Nagano in central Japan and comes ahead of the G7 leaders' summit to be held in Hiroshima this May.

"We reiterate the importance of a free and open Indo-Pacific, which is inclusive, prosperous, secure, based on the rule of law, and that protects shared principles including sovereignty, territorial integrity and peaceful resolution of disputes, fundamental freedoms and human rights," the joint comminique stated.

"We reaffirm individual initiatives of the G7 members and welcome those of our partners to enhance their engagement with the region. We underscore our commitment to further strengthening our 3 coordination among the G7 on the region, to working with regional partners, including ASEAN and its member states," it read. The G-7 ministers said they reaffirmed their unwavering support for ASEAN centrality and unity and our commitment to promoting cooperation in line with the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific.

The ministers also reaffirmed their partnership with Pacific Island countries and reiterate the importance of supporting their priorities and needs, in accordance with the Pacific Islands Forum's 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, including through the 4th International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in 2024.

"We welcome and further encourage efforts made by the private sector, universities and think tanks, which contribute to realizing a free and open Indo-Pacific," they said.

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On April 17, the second day of the G-7 foreign ministers' meeting, Japan's foreign minister Hayashi Yoshimasa, hosted the "Indo-Pacific" session which he explained his country's views "Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP)" and the New Plan for a FOIP. The G7 Foreign Ministers expressed their support, according to a statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.

Hayashi also stated that, with the emerging and developing countries known as the "Global South" facing a variety of issues, the G7 intends to work together with them to tackle these issues.

"Furthermore, in addition to underscoring the importance of cooperating with India, the G7 Foreign Ministers shared the view to increase engagement in the Indo-Pacific region, including ASEAN and the Pacific Island countries, and, as part of the G7 framework, to regularize discussions and strengthen cooperation in relation to the Indo-Pacific," the statement by Japanese ministry of foreign affairs read.

Japan's PM Fumio Kishida had unveiled the Japanese plan for a Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) while delivering a speech entitled "The Future of the Indo-Pacific-Japan's New Plan for a 'Free and Open Indo-Pacific-Together with India, as an Indispensable Partner" at the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA) in New Delhi on March 20 this year. He had said "India is an indispensable partner" to achieve the objectives of FOIP.

Meanwhile, at the G-7 ministers' meeting in Karuizawa, regarding Southeast Asia, Japanese foreign minister Hayashi stated the need for the G7 to strengthen cooperation with ASEAN in the medium and long term, while supporting ASEAN centrality and unity, and the importance of cooperating with ASEAN in line with the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP).

The G7 Foreign Ministers meeting was presided by Yoshimasa and attended by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly, Candian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly, French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna, Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, and Deputy Secretary-General of the European External Action Service (EEAS) Enrique Mora.


A federal judge is overseeing a hearing today in New Jersey to decide whether the lawsuits should restart, or remain on hold while J&J tries for the second time to use a bankrupt unit to persuade cancer victims to accept a settlement. Healthcare giant Johnson & Johnson may be forced to start defending itself in court again after a 19-month pause imposed on more than 40,000 lawsuits that claim its baby powder caused cancer.



The proposal has split the many law firms representing tens of thousands of women who claim they got cancer from tainted baby powder. Holdouts claim J&J wrongly put its unit  LTL Management  back into bankruptcy just hours after its first effort was dismissed on orders from a federal appeals court. The company says it has a deal backed by as many as 80,000 claimants, which should be enough to meet a key legal threshold to push a settlement worth $8.9 billion through bankruptcy.



The new bankruptcy filing is LTL Management LLC, 23-12825, U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of New Jersey (Trenton). LTL is trying to convince US Bankruptcy Judge Michael Kaplan to block the lawsuits from going forward, just as the judge did after J&J first put LTL in bankruptcy in 2021. J&J has long denied any link between cancer and baby powder and argues that the best way to settle the lawsuits is through a negotiated plan blessed by a bankruptcy court.
Top diplomats from the Group of Seven wealthy democracies vowed a unified front against Chinese threats to Taiwan and Russia's war of aggression in Ukraine, saying at the close of their meetings Tuesday that they were committed to boosting and enforcing tough sanctions against Moscow.

The G-7 communique laying out their commitments also included strong words over an unprecedented run of North Korean missile tests. But it was China's growing assertiveness in Asia and Russia's invasion of Ukraine that highlighted the three-day summit hosted by Japan in this hot springs resort town.

There can be no impunity for war crimes and other atrocities such as Russia's attacks against civilians and critical civilian infrastructure, the ministers said.

We remain committed to intensifying sanctions against Russia, coordinating and fully enforcing them, the communique said, and would support for as long as it takes" Ukraine as it defends itself.

The foreign ministers' communique was prepared as a template for global leaders to use at a G-7 summit that will be held in Hiroshima next month, and included language about Iran, Myanmar, Afghanistan, nuclear proliferation and other grave threats.

But two crises stood out: China's increasing threats against, and military maneuvers around, Taiwan, the self-governing democracy that Beijing claims as its own, and Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

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Russia's current offensive is largely stalled and Ukraine is preparing a counteroffensive, but there's widespread global worry about the Russian leader's repeated threats to use tactical nuclear weapons.

Russia's irresponsible nuclear rhetoric and its threat to deploy nuclear weapons in Belarus are unacceptable, the ministers said.

The G-7 envoys from Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Canada, Italy and the European Union have underlined that their meeting in Karuizawa marks a crucial moment in the world's response to Russian and Chinese aggression, two crises that are seen as challenges to the post-World War II rules-based international order.

Global efforts to confront the matters at the United Nations have been stymied by Chinese and Russian intransigence on the Security Council.

Leaders and foreign ministers of G-7 countries, most recently France and Germany, have recently concluded visits to China, and there is growing worry after China recently sent planes and ships to simulate an encirclement of Taiwan.

Beijing has also been rapidly adding nuclear warheads, taking a tougher line on its claim to the South China Sea and painting a scenario of impending confrontation.

The G-7 ministers said that peace and stability between China and Taiwan in the Taiwan Strait is an indispensable element in security and prosperity in the international community, and they called for the peaceful resolution of cross-Strait issues.

On Taiwan, there is clear unanimity in the approach we are taking, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters of his talks with other ministers in Karuizawa.

"What I heard was a remarkable convergence on concerns related to (China) and what we're doing to address those concerns, he said.

On stalled discussions with the Chinese, Blinken said the United States placed a premium on keeping communications channels open as President Joe Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping agreed to last year.

My expectation would be that we will be able to move forward on that, but it does require China to make clear its own intentions in doing that, Blinken said.

The communique also urged China to abstain from threats, coercion, intimidation or the use of force. We remain seriously concerned about the situation in the East and South China Seas. ... There is no legal basis for China's expansive maritime claims in the South China Sea, and we oppose China's militarisation activities in the region.

In Beijing, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Wenbin said the G-7 had grossly interfered in China's internal affairs and maliciously slandered and smeared China.

He said the communique is full of arrogance, prejudice and sinister intentions against China. We strongly oppose and deplore this and have lodged solemn complaints with the Japanese side, the host country of the meeting.

Despite indications, notably comments from French President Emmanuel Macron, that the G-7 is split over China, US officials said in Karuizawa that there is a shared worry among G-7 nations over China's actions, and a desire to continue a coordinated approach on working with Beijing even as nations confront Chinese coercion and attempts to water down or circumvent international rules regarding trade and commerce.

Japan's worry about China can be seen it its efforts to make a major break from its self-defence-only post-World War II principles, which include work to acquire preemptive strike capabilities and cruise missiles.

For the first time as the G-7, we noted in a statement our commitment to a rules-based, free and open international order and our strong objection to unilateral attempts to change the status-quo anywhere in the world," Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi told reporters.

He said that Japan, as the only G-7 member in Asia, brought a focus to the Indo-Pacific region.

Besides China, a key worry is North Korea, which since the beginning of last year has test-fired around 100 missiles, including intercontinental ballistic missiles that showed the potential of reaching the US mainland and a variety of other shorter-range weapons that threaten South Korea and Japan.

We demand North Korea refrain from any other destabilising or provocative actions, including any further nuclear tests or launches that use ballistic missile technology, the communique said, adding that future actions must be met with a swift, united and robust international response, including further significant measures to be taken by the UN Security Council.

It is critical that sanctions be fully and scrupulously implemented by all states and remain in place for as long as North Korea's WMD (weapons of mass destruction) and ballistic missile programmes exist, the ministers said.
Secret Service was investigating reports of a single gunshot early Monday morning near the US Naval Observatory, which is the home of Vice President Kamala Harris and her husband, Doug Emhoff, according to media reports.

Secret Service officers responded at 1:30 am to reports of a single gunshot at 34th and Massachusetts Ave, Fox News News quoted Secret Service spokesman Lt. Paul Mayhair as saying in a statement.

"No one was reported to be injured and there is currently no indication that this incident was directed towards any protectees or the Naval Observatory," Mayhair said. "Roads around the intersection are temporarily closed due to the ongoing investigation."



Officials on the scene outside the main entrance to the residence Monday morning were examining a stoplight whose top portion had been shattered. The Secret Service had cleared the scene, but surrounding roads had reopened later morning and the affected stoplight remained in use.

Indian-origin Harris, the first female and first Black vice president, and Emhoff were not at the residence at the time. Harris is in Los Angeles with events on her public schedule Monday.

The Naval Observatory, located in the Northwest quadrant of Washington, DC, is about two miles northwest of the White House. The area is tightly secured by the Secret Service, NBC News reported.

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After a last minute scrub, SpaceX now plans to attempt the Starship launch on Thursday, the company said on Tuesday.

"SpaceX is targeting as soon as Thursday, April 20 for the first flight test of a fully integrated Starship and Super Heavy rocket from Starbase in Texas," the company updated on its website.

"The 62 minute launch window opens at 8:28 a.m. CT (6:58a-pm IST) and closes at 9:30 a.m. CT (8:00a-pm IST)," it added.

The first launch attempt on Monday was called off at the last minute due to an issue with the pressurisation system on Starship's first stage, a huge booster called Super Heavy.

"A pressurant valve appears to be frozen, so unless it starts operating soon, no launch today," CEO Elon Musk reported in a tweet on Monday.

During the next attempt on Thursday, the Super Heavy booster will make a hard splashdown in the Gulf of Mexico about eight minutes after liftoff, Space.com reported.

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Starship's upper-stage spacecraft will make a partial lap around Earth, coming down in the Pacific Ocean near Hawaii around 90 minutes after launch, the report said.

"With a test such as this, success is measured by how much we can learn, which will inform and improve the probability of success in the future as SpaceX rapidly advances development of Starship," the company said.

Meanwhile, Musk is keeping the expectations low.

"I guess I'd like to just set expectations low," Musk said during a Twitter "Spaces" event for his subscribers on Sunday evening.

"If we get far enough away from the launch pad before something goes wrong, then I think I would consider that to be a success. Just don't blow up the pad.

"There's a good chance that it gets postponed since we're going to be pretty careful about this launch," he added.

Musk had previously said that there is only a 50 per cent chance that the first-ever orbital mission of SpaceX's huge Starship vehicle will be a success. But he also stressed that SpaceX is building multiple Starship vehicles at the South Texas site.

These will be launched in relatively quick succession over the coming months, and there's about an 80 per cent chance one of them will reach orbit this year.

SpaceX aims to use Starship as a fully reusable transportation system to carry both crew and cargo to Earth orbit, help humanity return to the Moon, and travel to Mars and beyond.

--IANS

rvt/shb/
As explosions and gunfire thundered outside, Sudanese in the capital Khartoum and other cities huddled in their homes for a third day Monday, while the army and a powerful rival force battled in the streets for control of the country.

At least 185 people have been killed and over 1,800 wounded since the fighting erupted, UN envoy Volker Perthes told reporters. The two sides are using tanks, artillery and other heavy weapons in densely populated areas. Fighter jets swooped overhead and anti-aircraft fire lit up the skies as darkness fell.

The toll could be much higher because there are many bodies in the streets around central Khartoum that no one can reach because of the clashes. There has been no official word on how many civilians or combatants have been killed. The doctors' syndicate earlier put the number of civilian deaths at 97.

The sudden outbreak of violence over the weekend between the nation's two top generals, each backed by tens of thousands of heavily armed fighters, trapped millions of people in their homes or wherever they could find shelter, with supplies running low and several hospitals forced to shut down.

Top diplomats on four continents scrambled to broker a truce, and the UN Security Council was set to discuss the crisis.

Gunfire and shelling are everywhere, Awadeya Mahmoud Koko, head of a union for thousands of tea vendors and other food workers, said from her home in a southern district of Khartoum.

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She said a shell stuck a neighbour's house Sunday, killing at least three people. We couldn't take them to a hospital or bury them.

In central Khartoum, sustained gunfire erupted and white smoke rose near the main military headquarters, a major battle front. Nearby, at least 88 students and staffers have been trapped in the engineering college library at Khartoum University since the start of fighting, one of the students said in a video posted online Monday. One student was killed during clashes outside and another wounded, he said. They do not have food or water, he said, showing a room full of people sleeping on the floor.

Even in a country with a long history of military coups, the scenes of fighting in the capital and its adjoining city Omdurman across the Nile River were unprecedented. The turmoil comes just days before Sudanese were to celebrate Eid al-Fitr, the holiday marking the end of Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting.

The power struggle pits Gen Abdel-Fattah Burhan, the commander of the armed forces, against Gen Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, the head of the Rapid Support Forces, a paramilitary group. The former allies jointly orchestrated an October 2021 military coup. The violence has raised the spectre of civil war just as Sudanese were trying to revive the drive for a democratic, civilian government after decades of military rule.

Under international pressure, Burhan and Dagalo had recently agreed to a framework agreement with political parties and pro-democracy groups, but the signing was repeatedly delayed as tensions rose over the integration of the RSF into the armed forces and the future chain of command.

The US, the UN and others have called for a truce. Egypt, which backs Sudan's military, and Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates which forged close ties to the RSF in recent years as it sent thousands of fighters to support their war in Yemen have also called for both sides to stand down.

But both generals have thus far dug in, demanding the other's surrender and ruling out negotiations.

The European Union's foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell tweeted that the EU ambassador to Sudan "was assaulted in his own residency," without providing further details. EU officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Dagalo, whose forces grew out of the notorious Janjaweed militias in Sudan's Darfur region, has portrayed himself as a defender of democracy and branded Burhan as the aggressor and a radical Islamist. Both generals have a long history of human rights abuses and their forces have cracked down on pro-democracy activists.

Heavy gunbattles raged in multiple parts of the capital and Omdurman, where the two sides have brought in tens of thousands of troops, positioning them in nearly every neighbourhood.

Twelve hospitals in the capital area have been forcefully evacuated and are out of service because of attacks or power outages, the Sudan Doctors' Syndicate said, out of a total of around 20 hospitals. Four other hospitals outside the capital have also shut down, it added in a statement late Monday.

Hadia Saeed said she and her three children were sheltering in one room on the ground floor of their home for fear of the shelling as gunfire rattled across their Bahri district in north Khartoum. They have food for a few more days, but after that we don't know what to do, she said.

Residents said fierce fighting with artillery and other heavy weapons raged Monday afternoon in the Gabra neighbourhood southwest of Khartoum. People were trapped and screaming inside their homes, said Asmaa al-Toum, a physician living in the area.

Fighting has been particularly fierce around each side's main bases and at strategic government buildings all of which are in residential areas.

The military on Monday claimed to have secured the main television building in Omdurman, fending off the RSF after days of fighting. State-run Sudan TV resumed broadcasting.

On Sunday, the RSF said it abandoned its main barracks and base, in Omdurman, which the armed forces had pounded with airstrikes.
Twitter has put more 'government-funded media' labels on the accounts of global news outlets like Australian Broadcasting Company (ABC Australia), Australia's Special Broadcasting Service (SBS), New Zealand's public broadcaster RNZ, Sweden's SR Ekot and SVT, and Catalonia's TV3.cat.

The micro-blogging platform earlier placed the 'publicly-funded' label to the BBC account and applied the 'government-funded' label to US-based NPR.

ABC News said in a tweet that it is a publicly funded broadcaster, "governed by the ABC Charter which is enshrined in legislation".

"For more than 90 years, the ABC has always been and remains an independent media organisation, free from political and commercial interests," it argued.

SBS said the label might lead Twitter users to believe that the outlet is editorially controlled by the government.

"While we appreciate Twitter's motivations with regard to transparency on its platform, we believe a 'Publicly-funded media' label better reflects the hybrid public-commercial nature of our funding model and the fact that SBS retains full independence from government in our news editorial and content decision making," a company spokesperson said in a statement.

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CBC/Radio-Canada tweeted that "our journalism is impartial and independent".

"To suggest otherwise is untrue. That is why we are pausing our activities on @Twitter," it added.

Last week, American media outlet NPR became the first major news organisation to quit Twitter after the Elon Musk-run platform labelled it as a government-funded organisation.

After NPR, the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) also left Twitter after being labelled as government-backed media.

--IANS

na/prw/dpb
Engle Martin & Associates, LLC ("Engle Martin"), a market-leading independent loss adjusting and claims management provider, announced today that it has acquired EIMC, LLC (EIMC), a leading global provider of ocean marine, risk management, claims investigation, and subrogation services based in Jersey City, New Jersey and London, England.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230417005197/en/

Founded in 1968, EIMC serves clients across the entire marine global supply chain with 50+ years of expertise in providing the full continuum of assessments, risk mitigation, and claim resolution solutions within marine cargo, stock throughout, hull & machinery, and fine art & specie. EIMC operates in 15 office locations strategically positioned in the United States and the United Kingdom. The organization works with a broad group of clients in all major international insurance markets and is also the Lloyds Agent for multiple locations in the United States. Since its inception, EIMC has been recognized by major international insurers and numerous insurance associations as a premier provider of marine insurance risk management and claims services.

This acquisition expands Engle Martins global footprint and diversifies its service portfolio by providing clients with a full suite of ocean marine services. This acquisition also provides EIMC an extensive back-office infrastructure, innovative technology solutions, and growth opportunities for team members. EIMC has a remarkable history within the maritime community that has resulted in distinctive and long-lasting relationships with its clients and carrier partners. EIMCs leadership team will remain in place and will maintain operational oversight of their portfolio.

When asked about the acquisition, Jay Campbell, Executive Vice President of Strategy & Organizational Growth of Engle Martin, said We are excited to continue growing and investing in our business. The acquisition expands our service capabilities in the ocean marine & technical risk services arena with an organization that is well-aligned with our culture and approach to business. We will continue to provide our clients with the same service, quality, and capabilities they have come to expect from our team, with a complementary service that allows us to respond to our customers in a holistic manner.

Tiina Ruhlandt, Managing Director of EIMC, said We are delighted that Engle Martin appreciates the value of our organization; and we are confident and excited that our combined expertise will have a positive impact on our continued growth and success. We believe that this partnership is an excellent extension of Engle Martins long-term business strategy, and we are thrilled to have a partner who shares our principles and respects the culture which has driven our success.

About Engle Martin

Engle Martin is a market-leading independent loss adjusting and claims management provider. Engle Martin has a comprehensive business philosophy: to provide the best insurance claim adjustment results in the industry, present the most talented claims professionals, foster an innovative and professional leadership team, and develop client-focused solutions. The firm provides a comprehensive line of service offerings including commercial property, casualty, specialty marine and transportation, appraisal/umpire, specialty audits, carrier outsourcing, and claims management services. For details about industries served and services offered by Engle Martin, visit EngleMartin.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230417005197/en/
ExaGrid, the industrys only Tiered Backup Storage solution, today announced that it has been nominated in 13 categories for the 20th annual Storage Awards.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005066/en/

(Graphic: Business Wire)

ExaGrid has become a finalist in the following categories:

"One to watch"  Vendor

Immutable Storage Company of the Year

Storage Marketing Team of the Year

Contribution to the Storage Industry  ExaGrid  Paul Mitchell

Ransomware Protection Company of the Year

Data Protection Company of the Year

Enterprise Backup Hardware Vendor of the Year

Hybrid Storage Vendor of the Year

Storage Optimisation Company of the Year

Capacity Storage Vendor of the Year

Channel Partner Program of the Year

Storage Product of the Year

Storage Company of the Year



Voting to determine the winner in each category is underway now and closes on May 31, 2023. Winners of this years awards will be announced at The Storries XX awards ceremony held in London on June 8, 2023.

We are pleased to take part in the Storage Awards as it celebrates its 20th year, said Bill Andrews, President and CEO of ExaGrid. We are honored to be nominated in so many categories, which include recognition of our channel program and individual members of the ExaGrid Team, as well as our industry-leading Tiered Backup Storage solution.

Paul Mitchell, ExaGrid Territory Sales Manager in the UK region, said, I am incredibly honored to be nominated for the Contribution to the Storage Industry award and grateful for the recognition. Many thanks to my partners in the channel who are key to success in bringing ExaGrids Tiered Backup Storage to our growing customer base, especially in the UK.

About ExaGrid

ExaGrid provides Tiered Backup Storage with a unique disk-cache Landing Zone, long-term retention repository, and scale-out architecture. ExaGrids Landing Zone provides for the fastest backups, restores, and instant VM recoveries. The Repository Tier offers the lowest cost for long-term retention. ExaGrids scale-out architecture includes full appliances and ensures a fixed-length backup window as data grows, eliminating expensive forklift upgrades and product obsolescence. ExaGrid offers the only two-tiered backup storage approach with a non-network-facing tier, delayed deletes, and immutable objects to recover from ransomware attacks.

ExaGrid has physical sales and pre-sales systems engineers in the following countries: Argentina, Australia, Benelux, Brazil, Canada, Chile, CIS, Colombia, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Iberia, India, Israel, Japan, Mexico, Nordics, Poland, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, and other regions.

Visit us at exagrid.com and connect with us on LinkedIn. See what our customers have to say about their own ExaGrid experiences and learn why they now spend significantly less time on backup storage in our customer success stories. ExaGrid is proud of our +81 NPS score!

ExaGrid is a registered trademark of ExaGrid Systems, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective holders.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005066/en/
Mary Kay Inc., a decades-long corporate advocate of womens education and entrepreneurship, announced the top three winners of its third annual World Series of Innovation (WSI) challenge in partnership with Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE). This global competition encourages youth ages 13-24 to utilize critical thinking skills to help solve the worlds greatest challenges on a local, domestic, or international scale, as part of the advancement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230417005743/en/

Mary Kay Inc. announced the top 3 winners of its third annual Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship World Series of Innovation Challenge. Winning teams are Angel Gear, Saving the Superstars of the Global Ecosystem, and Reversify. (Graphic: Mary Kay Inc.)

Mary Kays WSI challenge kicked off September 15 in conjunction with World Clean Up Day and encouraged young entrepreneurs to submit innovative solutions to address UN SDG 14: Life Below Water. Specifically, students were asked to design a solution to further the conservation and/or protection of the worlds marine ecosystems and coastal communities.

Businesses and Individuals play critical roles in protecting and conserving our worlds most precious resources, said Deborah Gibbins, Chief Operating Officer for Mary Kay Inc. Posing the challenges of the worlds marine ecosystems to the next generation brings a fresh perspective on problem-solving, and no solution is too small. Students looked at all angles of the issue, proposing innovative, sustainable, and impactful ways to address water conservation everywhere from their own homes, all the way to tackling the vast ocean.

Annually, NFTE reaches more than 40,000 youth worldwide, with 3,860 students from around the world submitting ideas for this years WSI challenges. More than 485 students participated in the Mary Kay-sponsored challenge. The top three winners of Mary Kays 2022 WSI Challenge are:

First Place: Angel Gear developed a business that purchases broken fishing nets and other gear and repurposes them into reusable nets. Developed by Ryan Zhang (17) and Jia-Teng Lu (16) from Kang Chiao International School in Taiwan. View submission video.

Second Place: Saving the Superstars of the Global Ecosystem utilizes unmanned surface water drones in combination with satellite-based remote sensing systems to locate and identify algae blooms in the Chesapeake Bay. Developed by Emily Carver (17) from Douglas S. Freeman High School in Virginia. View submission video.

Third Place: Reversify designed a sustainable washing machine that repurposes rainwater and filters harmful pollutants in wastewater. Developed by Iyshly Chen (16), Davina Liang (16), and Kelly Luo (16) from Abraham Lincoln High School in California. View submission video.



Each year, WSI participants choose from a diverse offering of challenge topics, often selecting one that resonates personally with their experience. Mary Kays Global Oceans Conservation Challenge asked students to think critically about one of the worlds most vital resources  water  and their innovative ideas did not disappoint, said Dr. J.D. LaRock, President and CEO of NFTE. Submissions ranged from social ideas such as engaging the community to clean up their local water sources, to engineering ideas such as creating drones that skim the ocean for waste without disrupting natural habitats.

NFTE is a global educational non-profit focused on bringing the power of entrepreneurship to low-income communities. Since its founding more than 35 years ago, NFTE has trained thousands of teachers and educated well over a million young people worldwide. Every fall, NFTE launches a new set of challenges for the WSI competition and invites corporate sponsors to address the UN SDGs. The 2022 NFTE World Series of Innovation is presented by Citi Foundation and features challenges sponsored by Mary Kay Inc., MetLife Foundation, Mastercard, Bank of the West, Link, Maxar, Ernst & Young, LLP (EY), ServiceNow and Zuora. View the top three winners for each challenge and learn more about all the World Series of Innovation challenges at https://innovation.nfte.com/.

About Mary Kay

Then. Now. Always. One of the original glass ceiling breakers, Mary Kay Ash founded her dream beauty brand in Texas in 1963 with one goal: to enrich womens lives. That dream has blossomed into a global company with millions of independent sales force members in more than 35 countries. For 60 years, the Mary Kay opportunity has empowered women to define their own futures through education, mentorship, advocacy, and innovation. Mary Kay is dedicated to investing in the science behind beauty and manufacturing cutting-edge skincare, color cosmetics, nutritional supplements, and fragrances. Mary Kay believes in preserving our planet for future generations, protecting women impacted by cancer and domestic abuse, and encouraging youth to follow their dreams. Learn more at marykayglobal.com, find us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, or follow us on Twitter.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230417005743/en/
Pernod Ricard India

News Summary

Royal Stag Boombox audaciously brought together polar opposites of the music industry  the melody of Bollywood and the gully vibe of Hip-Hop  to make original music, to create a new soundscape.
(Nikkei Asia)  Thailand and Indonesia have become two of the hottest Asian destinations for investment in parts and materials for electric vehicles, as Japanese, Chinese and South Korean players race to get in at the start of EV production in the region.

Japanese plastics-maker Kuraray this month opened its first plant in Thailand.

Automakers told us they want to have a supply chain in the region, President Hitoshi Kawahara said at the opening ceremony.
Multiple countries rushed to rescue their nationals from the war-torn country as battle raged between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. China has sent its first group of evacuees to neighboring countries, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning said in a regular press conference Monday. The conflict has left at least 420 people dead and more than 3,700 injured since it broke out on April 15, the World Health Organization reported the same day

Apr 25, 2023 07:45 PM
Monday, April 17, 2023 at 10:55PM

Screenshot: Toronto Star

The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) is the latest broadcaster to "pause" its activity on Twitter after the platform labelled it as a "government-funded media." The media outlet rebutted Twitter's use of the label that suggests the government could influence editorial output. It wanted to emphasize that reporting is "impartial and independent." Following its announcement Twitter CEO Elon Musk changed the designation to "69% government-funded media."

It's unclear if CBC is in talks with Twitter to change the label. The UK's British Broadcasting Corporation succeeded in having Twitter change its label to "publicly-funded" soon after it quickly organized an interview with Musk.

The CBC is a Crown corporationwhich means it is completely owned by the Canadian governmentbut it's editorially independent. Canada's Broadcasting Act enshrines the hands-off approach in law. CBC also makes some of its money from advertising.

This issue first started popping up in the US when National Public Radio (NPR) objected to the platform labelling it as "US state-affiliated media. Twitter then altered it to a "government-funded" institution, but as Engadget pointed out, that still implied bias. NPR quit the platform days later. The Public Broadcasting Service in the US also followed suit.
India is one of the most powerful and emerging economies across the globe. India is the second largest Coal importer in the world. Through this, the power and capacity of India, especially in the Coal Sector can be understood. India's primary energy demand is fulfilled by the Coal sector. The Coal Sector of India contributes 45% of total energy demand in the country.

The population of India highly depends on the Coal reservoir in many different ways. India is heading towards the transition to net economies. To achieve the goal by 2070; the nation is focusing on 'coal phase down' approach as opposed to a 'coal phase out'. But, there is an alarming question that this step of India will lead to. The nullification of Coal industry in India by 2070 puts the question of Unemployment and other major options for energy production. Coal plays an inevitable role in the upliftment of the economy of India, presently.

With regard to environmental and/or climatic justice, a number of organizations have used the concept of a Just Transition in recent years. When it comes to reducing climate change, the IPCC defines fair transition as "a set of principles, processes, and practices that aim to ensure that no people, workers, places, sectors, countries, or regions are left behind in the transition from a high-carbon to a low-carbon economy."

Geographic distribution raises important implications

A particularly relevant aspect of India's just transition is the geographic distribution of the energy transition. The states in India with high solar radiation, and thus significant solar power generation capacity, are in the west of the country, while the coal-rich states are predominantly in the center and east. This geographic distribution raises important implications for how local-, state-, and national-level agencies need to manage the energy transition and its impacts on particular groups and regions.

The Indian national government has set ambitious renewable energy goals that include the development of 175 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy by 2022. However, such a transition away from coal and towards renewable energy will heavily impact its coal sector which currently provides 45 percent of India's total primary energy demand.

India set the target for achieving net zero by 2070, at COP26 in 2021; with a focus on a 'coal phase down' approach as opposed to a 'coal phase out'.

During COP27, held in November 2022, India released a national report focused on the country's long-term low-emission development strategy to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The key emphasis was on transitioning from fossil fuels in a just, smooth, sustainable, and all-inclusive manner.

The country also updated its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) in 2022, which it aims to achieve by 2030 to reflect a "coal phase down" approach. Through its NDCs, India has committed to meeting 50% cumulative electric power installed capacity from non-fossil fuel-based energy resources and to reducing the emission intensity of its GDP by 45%, from the 2005 level.

How it is going to impact employment and livelihood

India's pronouncements at COP27 and in the revised NDCs highlight the country's commitment towards transitioning from fossil fuels like coal, in a just manner. Along with its commitment to global normative frameworks, India has brought various domestic policy measures that align with the goal of phasing coal down, key among these are as follows:

The draft National Electricity Plan for 2022-27, through which the Government expects domestic coal requirement to touch 1018.2 MT by 2031-32.

According to the Plan, the Government intends to retire coal-based capacity totalling 4,629 MW between 2022 and 2027. The Plan also indicated retiring old and inefficient power plant units that cannot undergo renovation and modernization, to reduce carbon emissions.

Due to this exercise, around 30 million of people will get affected. The impact will not be abrupt, but a multi-decadal. The people may lose their jobs due to the shutting down the power plants and coal mines. For the people living in states like Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha nd West Bengal there could be a matter of survival.

An environment organization and EY have released a report, "Livelihood opportunities for a Just Transition in Jharkhand" talking about the impacts on these states, especially Jharkhand, which is the most prominent coal-wearing state. Climate Trends and EY did a survey on 6000 people employed directly or indirectly in the coal mines in Jharkhand.

What Experts says on the Transition

While releasing the report in Kolkata, experts from IIMs, IITs, and various government organizations express their concern for the livelihood of the people.

Prof. Runa Sarkar, from the Indian Institute of Management, Kolkata said that the cost of transition is much bigger than what we expect. It is not just a matter of the livelihood of the people, but a matter of the identity of the people working in coal mines for generations.

Kunal Singh, Lead, of Research & Data Analytics, Policy Development Advisory Group said that there will always be uncertainty on the timeline of the transition. It is not a one or two-year task, it's a multidecadal task. He gave an example of Germany which took 60 years to move from fossil fuel to green energy.

Aarti Khosla, Director, of Climate Trends gave her opinion on the transition and said that the government has to take several measures while moving to zero-emission energy. The major problem is the dependency of the state's economy on fossil fuels. Government should take some learnings from the city like Giridih where the coal mine was shut in 2020 and after that how the city is coping.

Recommendations of the Study
The Life Insurance Corporation of India announced the LIC ADO Mains Admit Card 2023. Candidates who will appear in the main examination for the Apprentice Development Officer vacancies can get the call letter from the LIC website www.licindia.in. The LIC ADO 2023 Mains Exam will be held available from April 15, 2023 to April 23, 2023, as announced by LIC along with the official announcement. The Prelims, Mains Exam, and Interview will be utilised for determining qualified applicants for the 9294 Apprentice Development Officer posts.

Overview of the Examination

Organization- Life Insurance Corporation

Post- Apprentice Development Officer

Official website www.licindia.in

Steps to Download the Admit Card

Step 1: Visit the LIC India official website to download your admit card

Step 2: Scroll down the official page and click on the "CAREERS" link.

Step 3: Navigate to the Admit Card Download link on the page.

Step 4: Input your Registration Number/Roll Number, as well as your DOB/Password.

Step 5: Press the "SUBMIT" button.

Step 6: The LIC ADO Admit Card 2023 will appear on your screen.

You have the option of downloading the Admit Card in PDF format or printing it.

Details Mentioned in Admit Card

Candidate's Name

Candidate's Roll Number

Candidate's Photograph

Candidate's Date of Birth

Exam Centre Details

Examination Name

Exam Date, and Time

Empty Box for Candidate Signature

Important examination guidelines.

Exam Pattern

The LIC ADO Mains Exam will be divided into three parts: mathematical reasoning and numerical ability, general knowledge, current affairs, and English language with an emphasis on vocabulary and grammar, insurance and finance marketing awareness, and so on.

Things to carry to the Exam Centre

Notes for the LIC ADO Mains Exam Phase 2 Applicants must have their LIC ADO Admit Card to the exam centre. Applicants must have a valid photo identification card, such as a PAN card, Aadhar card, or passport. They should also bring a photocopy of their ID. The request for an exam centre will not be considered, and only the LIC board can assign new centres to candidates.
UPSC IES/ISS 2023: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) will commence the registration process for the Indian Economic Service/Indian Statistical Service (IES/ISS) on April 19, 2023. The deadline for registration is May 9th, 2023. Candidates must qualify both a written examination and an interview to be selected for the IES/ISS.

UPSC IES/ISS 2023:Eligibilty Criteria

To apply, candidates must meet the eligibility criteria which includes an age limit of 21 to 30 years. Age relaxation is available for SC/ST and OBC candidates and those with benchmark disabilities. Educational qualifications include a postgraduate degree in economics or a related field for IES, and an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in statistics or a related field for ISS.

UPSC IES/ISS 2023: Vacancy

The official number of vacancies has not been announced yet, but 53 posts are expected to be available, with 24 for IES and 29 for ISS. Successful candidates can expect a good salary package along with various benefits.

The written examination consists of multiple papers for both IES and ISS, with an objective and descriptive component for each subject. The personal interview or Viva Voce is the second part of the examination.

UPSC IES/ISS 2023: Syllabus

Statistics I Probability, Statistical Methods, Numerical Analysis, Computer Application and Data Processing, and Basics of Programming.

Statistics II- Linear Models, Statistical Inference and Hypothesis Testing, Official Statistics, National Statistical Organization,

Statistics III -Sampling Techniques, Econometrics, Applied Statistics,

Statistics IV -Operations Research and Reliability, Demography and Vital Statistics, Survival Analysis and Clinical Trial, Quality Control, Quality Control, Design and Analysis of Experiments, and Computing with C and R.

UPSC IES/ISS 2023: Salary Package

The salary details for different positions range from Rs. 16,000 to Rs. 80,000. The Higher Administrative Grade Officer, Principal Officer, earns the highest salary at Rs. 80,000, while the Junior Time Scale, Assistant Director, Research Officer earns the lowest at Rs. 16,000 to Rs. 39,900.

Candidates should check the eligibility criteria, exam pattern, syllabus, schedule, and other details before filling out the application form. This is a great opportunity for those interested in a central government job in economics or statistics.
Without meaningful autonomy, universities in Kerala will be reduced to the status of a government department and their degrees will not be recognised outside the state or by the University Grants Commission (UGC), Governor Arif Mohammed Khan has said. Khan, locked in a tussle with the Kerala government over autonomy of universities, asserted he is trying to save the autonomy of these institutions of higher education in the southern state.

The governor was interacting with the audience on Monday after speaking on the topic, 'Bharat Ki Samprabhuta Aur Aaj' (India's sovereignty in today's times), organised by leading Hindi daily 'Dainik Bhaskar' in Nagpur. Last year, the governor had said the Kerala government cannot be given the power to appoint vice-chancellors (VCs) of state universities. To a query during the Question & Answer session as to why there was no solution to the long running dispute between the Raj Bhavan and the CPI(M)-led ruling coalition over the appointment of VCs of universities, Khan said the state government was trying to encroach on the autonomy of institutions of higher learning, and he will not allow this to happen. He said disputes arise when one institution tries to encroach on the power of other bodies.

The governor has been appointed the chancellor of universities to protect their autonomy and shield them from the government's interference in functioning, Khan said. "I am trying to save the autonomy of universities. The Supreme Court, in its decision about two months back, said all the 13 appointments of vice-chancellors were illegal. However, I have also said what kind of universities we want cannot be decided by the governor. The elected government of the day has to decide whether or not they want universities to enjoy autonomy," he said.

Khan said he is just following the Constitution. "If they (state government) do not want it (autonomy for universities), then I cannot take that responsibility on me. But, as along as I have this responsibility (of governorship) as per the Constitution, I will try to save the autonomy of universities," he maintained. Khan further said the SC, in its ruling, had clarified that if a person with non-academic background was involved in the selection of a VC, then that appointment will be deemed as illegal. The apex court had also said the state government has no role in the appointment of vice-chancellors, Khan pointed out. "There is no dispute after this (SC) decision. If they don't want universities to remain autonomous, then your universities won't be universities... they would become like a government department. Neither the UGC nor people outside the state will approve their degrees. It is as simple as that," he said.

Earlier, speaking at the event, Khan hailed the country's rich culture and said Indian civilisation was the only one which is known in the world for conservation of knowledge and wisdom. "Our cultural heritage can not only solve our own problems, but also show new path to the whole world," he said. The governor said the country's sovereignty is very valuable and "the important ideals and values of our cultural and political heritage need to be protected". India's resilience was evident in the fact that despite "800 years of occupation by inimical forces (jab zamana dushman tha) we were able to save your culture," he said.
For those interested in studying the ocean and its surroundings, the field of oceanography is the finest career choice. Want to learn more about the employment opportunities, potential for advancement, and pay in the oceanographic field? Learn more about how to become an oceanographer.

Oceanography: What is it?

The study of ocean currents, waves, the geology of the ocean floor, and the physical characteristics of the ocean and its borders falls under the umbrella of oceanography, which is also known as oceanology. It is the study of anything connected to the ocean. Oceanography is the "study of oceans," to put it simply.

The study of the ocean is separated into four branches: geological oceanography(marine geology), biological oceanography (marine biology), chemical oceanography (marine chemistry), and physical oceanography (marine physics). The scientists that study the ocean are known as oceanographers. Oceanographers work in the mining, shipping, fishing, coastal development, weather forecasting, and climate change fields.

Scope

Our world has a need to learn about the many oceans, which is why there is a growing need for oceanographers. The oceanographers research the ocean's waters and how they affect weather, marine life, and other factors. Oceanographers can operate in a variety of sectors, including the oil business and conservation.

Depending on the expertise in this area of study, job responsibilities change. An eligible oceanographer should begin by obtaining a bachelor's degree and any necessary work experience. Jobs are needed because of the necessity to manage water resources and safeguard the environment.

Courses and Eligibility

Several colleges and universities in India provide postgraduate study in this area. The majority of oceanographers have master's and doctoral degrees in the subject. In its simplest form, oceanography is a research area. Below is a list of the best courses available in this area:

Master's Programs

Master of Science in Oceanography (M.Sc.)

Master of Science in Marine Biology

Master of Technology in Ocean Engineering

M.Tech in Ocean Technology

Doctoral Programs

Master of Philosophy in Marine Biology

PhD in Oceanography and an M.Phil. in Chemical Oceanography

Conditions for Eligibility

Applicants with a B.Sc. in Zoology/ Botany/ Chemistry/ Fishery Science/ Earth Science/Physics/ Agriculture/ Microbiology/ Applied Sciences or a related discipline are eligible to pursue an M.Sc. in oceanography.

B. Tech or equivalent degree/AMIE (Associate Member of Institution of Engineers) in Civil Engineering/ Environmental Sciences with 60% marks is required for admission to the M.Tech programme. Individuals with an M.Sc. in the related discipline are also qualified.

For Doctoral programmes: You need a postgraduate degree in a relevant discipline to pursue a Ph.D. or M.Phil in oceanography.

Application Procedure

The majority of universities and institutions provide entrance exams for admission. Applicants must take the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering if they want to pursue an M.Tech. in oceanography. Many institutions hold their own entrance exams to choose students for their Ph.D. programme.

Below is a list of universities that offer oceanographic courses

Department of Physical Oceanography: Cochin University of Science and Technology

Anna University, Institute for Ocean Management, Chennai

National Institute of Oceanography, Goa

Annamalai University, Centre for Advanced Study in Marine Biology, Tamil Nadu

Berhampur University, Berhampur, Orissa

Employment Opportunities

An oceanographer's work is typically focused on research. In the ocean, they carry out surveys, gather samples, and perform data analysis. For those working as professionals in this industry, there are numerous job options.

Oceanographers can find employment in both the public and private sectors. Professionals in this industry can join as scientists, engineers, or technicians according to their skills and knowledge. Also, one may get employment with government agencies like the Department of Oceanography, Geological Survey of India, Meteorological Survey of India, etc.

You can work as a scientist, engineer, or technician after earning your entire degree in the public, private, and various governmental sectors. Candidates can access professional prospects in Oil India as well as the public sector. Applicants can get work in the government sector at places like the Department of Oceanography, Meteorological Survey of India, and Geological Survey of India, among others.

There are numerous colleges and research centres where you can pursue research studies. It also offers a variety of work opportunities in research. In the majority of reputable institutions and universities, candidates can opt to become teachers.

Necessary Skills

Strong mathematics and scientific abilities.

You ought to be familiar with the various oceans in various regions.

Excellent problem-solving and practical capabilities.

You need to have research skills in order to learn about the entire properties of the specific ocean.

Good observational abilities are required.

You must possess strong interpersonal skills in addition to thorough knowledge of computer programmes including digital mapping, remote sensing, and computer modelling.

It is necessary to have solid knowledge of the aquatic environment.

When it comes to publicising specific findings, written communication abilities are absolutely essential.

Those with a master's or doctoral degree in oceanography can potentially pursue a career in teaching.

Oceanographers have the option of moving abroad. They will obtain a well-paid position in the UK.

Work Responsibilities of an Oceanographer

to research, plan, and coordinate oceanic operations

to gather information for upcoming records.

Test the theory and enhance it further.

Write up papers and reports based on your results.

Make decisions about the ecosystems and resources of the coast and the sea.

An oceanographer might be called

Marine biologist

The marine chemist

A marine physicist

Marine geologist

How much does an oceanographer earn?

The starting monthly compensation for an oceanographer in India is between Rs 20,000 and Rs 30,000. Your pay will depend on your experience and area of specialisation. Oceanographers can find attractive pay packages in other nations like the US, UK, and France. In another country, they are paid between $50,000 and $80,000 annually.
Seven-seaters are all about practicality. For the Filipino family, it has to be safe, reliable, but most of all, offers comfort and joy with...
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ATLANTA (April 18, 2023)  The Carter Center is heartbroken by the tragic humanitarian situation unfolding during the holy month of Ramadan in Sudan and calls on warring parties to immediately cease fighting and work to bring about lasting peace.



We are heartened by news today that both sides have committed to a 24-hour cease-fire; however, significant damage has already been done and a durable, long-term peace is needed.



According to credible reports, almost 300 civilians have been killed, and thousands more have been injured. Since the fighting began, many Sudanese have lost human security, reliable access to food, water, and power. This is especially worrisome given that even before then, the United Nations estimated that more than 15 million people needed regular humanitarian assistance.



The Center implores combatants to protect civilians, allow for the provision of much-needed health and public services, and provide safe access for humanitarian workers so they can deliver aid to the Sudanese people.



The Carter Center has worked in Sudan since 1986, and the country holds a special place in the hearts of President and Mrs. Carter. We continue to stand with the people of Sudan and are ready to assist in any way we can to help bring about peace and alleviate suffering.

Translation





###

Contact: Maria Cartaya, Associate Director of Communications, maria.cartaya@cartercenter.org





The Carter Center

Waging Peace. Fighting Disease. Building Hope.



A not-for-profit, nongovernmental organization, The Carter Center has helped to improve life for people in over 80 countries by resolving conflicts; advancing democracy, human rights, and economic opportunity; preventing diseases; and improving mental health care. The Carter Center was founded in 1982 by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, in partnership with Emory University, to advance peace and health worldwide.
Cement sector decarbonisation: the business case

ICR Research By

Published 18 April 2023

To achieve its 2050 target of net zero cement production, the cement sector will need to apply a range of decarbonisation strategies. However, high capital costs and limited market experience are key barriers to rapid deployment. In the USA, several regulatory incentives are available while the voluntary carbon market offers further opportunities. By Kayla Carey, Zach Harmer, Braeden Larson and Wilson Fong, ClimeCo, USA.

The cement industry faces increasing pressure to decarbonise from key stakeholders, including buyers, regulators, financial institutions, non-governmental organisations and investors. In response to the proliferating need for climate action, the Global Cement and Concrete Association (GCCA), representing 80 per cent of the industry aside from China, announced a sector-wide net zero goal by mid-century. The US Portland Cement Association established a similar goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. To meet targets, the cement industry must address hard-to-abate process emissions released during clinker calcination, which contributes over half of the emissions from cement production and cannot be reduced through traditional fuel switching or efficiency approaches.

To continue reading this story and get access to all News, Articles and Video sections of the CemNet.com website, please Register for a subscription to International Cement Review or Login
Congo's Tao-Tao plant project 45% completed

ICR Newsroom By 18 April 2023

Work on the new Tao-Tao cement plant in the Niari department of Republic of Congo has been 45 per cent completed, according to Les Echos du Congo Brazzaville. The second plant in the Niari region is expected to come online in 2024, following an agreement between the Congolese and Indian governments. Earlier, the company announced the construction of a 1.8Mta plant in Mafoubou.



The new plant will have a cement capacity of 0.6Mta and enable the country to increase its production of cement.

Published under
South Africa: Dtic to host business seminar in Kuruman

The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) will host a Business Seminar in Kuruman in the Ga-Segonyana Local Municipality, Northern Cape, on Friday.

The Kuruman Business Seminar is part of the dtic's ongoing campaign to promote entrepreneurship and business development in South Africa.

The seminar will be administered in the form of an information-sharing session, where the dtic and representatives of its agencies will engage with the youth and Small, Micro and Medium Enterprises (SMMEs) on how to register companies and secure funding for running businesses, amongst others.

Trade, Industry and Competition Deputy Minister, Nomalungelo Gina, has reiterated the dtics commitment to supporting entrepreneurs, particularly small businesses in South Africa.

This series of Izimbizo to our people provides us with an opportunity to share important information with communities on the ground about the work we are doing and have been doing.

Strategic guidance is given to businesses on how to access our incentives through our own agencies. Through initiatives such as the Kuruman Business Seminar, we are providing young people with the tools and resources they need to succeed in business and contribute to the Northern Capes economic growth, the Deputy Minister said.

The seminar is open to young people interested in entrepreneurship and business development. It will feature expert speakers, interactive sessions, networking opportunities and exhibition by government agencies.

"We are excited to take our imbizo to the Ga-Segonyana Local Municipality. This is a mining-dominated district with businesses that are part of the minerals ecosystem, including SMMEs.

We need to interact with them and the department can play a crucial role in helping the growth of these companies, Gina said.  SAnews.gov.za

This story has been published on: 2023-04-18. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
China will soon ship a series of aids to three developing nations to help beef up their capabilities to cope with climate change, according to the Ministry of Ecology and Environment.

In moves to implement its plan to ramp up South-South Cooperation on climate change, China will provide 5,000 sets of solar power generation systems for household use and 300 metric tons of cement for seawall construction for the Pacific island nation of Kiribati, the ministry said in a media release on Tuesday.

A mobile ground system that can receive and process data from satellites will be offered to Botswana, the release said. The system will support the African nation in environmental monitoring, agricultural production and the prevention of extreme weather disasters.

It also said six electric buses will be delivered to Costa Rica to facilitate the nation's endeavor on a green, low-carbon transition in its transportation sector.

"Currently, the production of all aids in the three programs has been completed," the ministry said. "They will be delivered for shipment soon."

China has always strived, as its capacity allows, to help other developing nations enhance their capabilities on tackling climate change, the ministry stressed.

To date, China has reached 45 agreements on climate cooperation with 38 developing countries, it said. It has also offered training programs to some 2,300 officials and technicians working in climate-related positions in over 120 developing nations.
Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park will present a special one-hour, ranger-led program examining the role of hospitals in Chattanooga during the Civil War on Saturday, April 29 at 2 p.m. Participants are asked to park at the 301-409 Collins St. Parking Lot adjacent to the Confederate cemetery on 5th Avenue, where the program will be held. (301-499 Collins St. in Chattanooga). Participants are welcome to bring a chair and water.Officials said, "As battles began to rage in Tennessee in late 1862 and early 1863, Chattanoogas location as a rail junction, away from the front, proved vital in housing locations for treating the wounded.Chattanooga soon became a hotbed for hospitals. Some of which were former hotels and warehouses to some that were mere homes of residents. Come join a park ranger for this special look at some of the sites associated with treating the soldiers, both North and South, in their dire and some cases final moments."For more information about programs at Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, contact the Chickamauga Battlefield Visitor Center at 706-866-9241, the Lookout Mountain Battlefield Visitor Center at 423-821-7786, or visit the park website at www.nps.gov/chch.
Chattanooga Airport President Terry Hart said the airport will seek a U.S. Department of Transportation small community air service development grant to attract commercial air service to Denver, opening pathways to the West from Chattanooga.

I think we have a good story, Mr. Hart said.

The airport is working with the city and the county to garner support letters from local high-growth CEOs and government leaders, including a matching funds strategy, to show the large scale of community support for Denver as a non stop destination.

Mr. Hart said he has $370,000 in commitments so far.

I feel very good about that, he said.

Ellis Smith, director of special projects at the city of Chattanooga, said Mayor Tim Kelly is committed to a partnership with local businesses to push private fundraising in support of the DOT grant. The alliance was discussed in a recent Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce presentation, he said.

Mr. Ellis said Charles Wood, interim president and CEO at the Chamber, has agreed that funds may flow through the Chattanooga Chamber Foundation.

People are really excited, Mr. Smith said.

The application deadline for the grant is May 12, Mr. Hart said.

In addition to Denver, airport officials continue to push for service to Dallas/Fort Worth, and for American Airlines to expand its summer service to Miami to year-round service. Mr. Hart said South Florida is a top Chattanooga market.

Delta Air Lines will retire its 50-seat planes May 1, meaning flights to Atlanta will use bigger planes and have greater capacity.

Nonstop flights from Chattanooga to LaGuardia Airport in New York City will return when the large airports recover from equipment shortages and pilot shortages brought on by the pandemic, Mr. Hart said.

Im confident we will see that back at some point, he said. Industry leaders are predicting that major strides will be made in 2023 with big results in 2024, he said.

In general, airlines are beginning to favor larger planes with higher seat capacity, Mr. Hart said. A relaxing of federal guidelines this summer will allow the airports to scale up capacity with fewer, larger planes, while holding that airspace for future routes.

Chairman James Hall gave his prediction that airspace is the issue of the future, and it may not rely on pilot shortages with introduction of drones, which Mr. Hall dubbed the air taxi of the future.

J&J Contractors is on day 305 of 760 planned days of the terminal expansion project. In May the main TSA checkpoint will be renovated and a temporary checkpoint set up.

New terrazzo flooring is being installed this week, and existing concourse tile is being demolished for matching terrazzo flooring throughout.

The exterior portion of the renovation is 90 percent complete, Mr. Hart said, including roofing, air conditioning units and windows.

Enplanements, landings, operations and cargo continue to rise per month from 2022 numbers. First quarter numbers from March 2023 enplanements are up 17.5 percent from 2022.

Seat capacity continues to rise and is projected to continue to rise through July, Mr. Hart said.

West Star Aviation's Hangar 27 is nearly complete and will bring 100 jobs to the airport. Final concrete will be poured Wednesday. The project is scheduled to be complete in June. West Star is already planning Hangar 26.

The board approved $1.8 million for Tally Construction to build a connector roadway to the new Hangar 27 to relieve plane traffic congestion.

The airport is moving its general aviation section to the west side of the airfield. Allen & Hoshell is designing two new general aviation hangars of 20,000 square feet each in the new section.

The board approved $283,643 to purchase, install and maintain two 18- by 13-foot LED screens inside the rotunda entrance for advertising, marketing and airport messages, from Revel Media Group.

The board approved $144,000 for Jake Marshall to replace two, 30-ton air conditioning units from 2008.
7 Brew drive-thru coffee company coffee recently celebrated their grand opening in Hixson at 5417 Highway 153 by donating $1,000 to the Hixson High School marching band.

As a thank you for the donation, the marching band is putting on a special performance at the stand.

It will be Saturday at 2 p.m.

The coffee firm opened on March 20.
The BLVD Project is a grassroots organization that seeks to improve safety, transportation, aesthetics, and the business environment along the Rossville Boulevard corridor. The corridor begins at the I-24 overpass and continues 2.2 miles south to the Tennessee/Georgia state line. The group is partnering with the Rossville Downtown Development Authority to host the Second Annual Cross-State Clean Up Day on Saturday from 9 a.m.-noon.

People clearly care about this area of Chattanooga," said Heather Herweyer, director of The BLVD Project.

She said, "Behind the busy traffic are pockets of neighborhoods with families and elderly and lots of people who want to see improvements to the Rossville BLVD corridor.

These are the people who are showing up at community events, like the Annual State Line Clean Up Day.

"The BLVD Project and the Rossville Downtown Development Authority partnered together for this event last year and were encouraged by the progress that was made and decided to make it an Annual event.

"Last year, the group was able to make progress on eliminating and addressing graffiti problems by painting simple murals on buildings that are repeatedly tagged with graffiti. Research shows that graffiti taggers often respect community artwork and will not repeatedly tag an area that has been covered with artwork.

"Together, the two community organizations are working to show the Greater Chattanooga area that the State Line at Rossville BLVD is a safe and enjoyable place to gather and offers a small town vibe with great assets.

"This years State Line Clean Up Day will have two primary focuses: Artwork on abandoned buildings and Landscaping. The community is invited to help out with the clean up efforts. The kick-off and coffee will be at the future site of (be)caffeinated at 200 Chickamauga Avenue, Rossville, at 8:30 a.m."

Sign up here: https://tinyurl.com/3ef8mj79
Johnny Clemons Jr. should be released from jail soon despite pleading guilty in a 2014 murder case in Hamilton County Criminal Court on Monday.

Clemons, 36, pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter in an appearance before Judge Amanda Dunn.

He was given a five-year sentence in the case in which Cedric Mikes was shot in the head as he drove a vehicle occupied by Clemons and others.

Gang and Violent Crime Prosecutor Austin Scofield said Clemons has maintained that the fatal shot came from the rear. However, he said the medical examiner said, from the injury, the bullet would have come from beside the victim.

Prosecutor Scofield, asked by Judge Dunn about the plea, said there was little evidence available in the case that happened some nine years ago.

He said there was little movement on solving the case for several years, then arrests were made.

Attorney Zak Newman said Clemons has been in jail since 2017 or 2018 and should be released on time served.

Clemons took an Alford plea in which he agreed to the plea out of his "best interest."
The Clara Ward School of Nursing hosted an open house and ribbon cutting in honor of Clifton and Clara Ward, marking the official opening of Bryan Colleges Nursing facility. Following the ribbon cutting, a reception, and interactive tour were held. After months of preparation, the new space on the 2nd floor of the Livesay Learning Center is ready for students.

The mission of the Clara Ward School of Nursing is to prepare students to become professional nurses who utilize skill, ingenuity, and grace in order to meet the worlds changing needs, and thus represent the Lord Jesus, said officials. Led by Dr. Pamela Giles, dean of Clara Ward School of Nursing, the Nursing faculty are preparing to mentor, inspire, and educate Bryans first-ever nursing students.

Bryans baccalaureate degree program in Nursing has already received initial approval from the Tennessee Board of Nursing and is pursuing initial accreditation by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. This degree is a generalist degree, providing a broad foundation of knowledge that enables the new nurse to enter the care setting of their choice.

Upon graduation, nursing students can decide if they would like to specialize in their nursing practice and then obtain additional education and training required for that option. The BSN degree also lays the foundation for graduate-level nursing education, either at the masters or doctoral level.

Completed applications for the first Nursing major course were due April 1, and courses will begin this August. For more information about Clara Ward School of Nursing, visit https://bryan.edu/nursing or their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/BryanCollegeNursing
A woman on Kirby Avenue told police her son was at her residence causing a disorder and she wanted him gone. Police spoke with the son who said he and his mother were in a verbal argument and she locked him out. The mother said her son was not on the lease and didnt pay any bills. The son asked police to take him to the Community Kitchen until things calmed down with his mom. He gathered the medications he needed and was transported to the Community Kitchen without incident.

* * *

A manager at 5450 Highway 153 told police a customer had approached him and said a person in a car had stolen some plants from the front of the store. The manager didnt have any suspect information. He said the suspect stole approximately $200 worth of plants from the store.

* * *

While on routine patrol on N. Access Road, police saw a gold Lincoln sedan parked in a closed city park. The park is a hot spot for parties trespassing at the dump and police have been out with the woman at this location multiple times. The tag came back to a Chevy Equinox. Upon approaching the vehicle, police spoke with the woman and a man. Both came back with no warrants. Police told them city parks close at dark and told them to leave.

* * *

A man at the Comfort Inn at 2420 Williams St. told police his roommate was consistently disrespecting him. He told her to leave and began moving her belongings into the hall. The roommate said there were more of her things in the room but the man wouldnt allow her to retrieve them. Police asked the man if the woman could get her belongings, to which he agreed. The woman got the rest of her stuff and was given a ride to the Raceway on 25th and Broad by police without incident.

* * *

An officer responded to an unknown 911 at an apartment on E. 26th Street Court. The officer arrived and tried to make contact but no one answered the door. Various items were strewn about the floor just outside the door but the officer saw no driving force to enter. The officer attempted to make contact with the residents of three nearby apartments, but no contact was made at any door. After dispatch referenced the phone number and attached name, a prior call record was found for another address. The officer went to the other address and tried to make contact but was unsuccessful as the front and rear exterior doors to the apartment hallway were locked. There was again no driving force for entry at this address. While nothing further was located, due to numerous unknown 911 calls from this number/address, the report was filed for documentative purposes.

* * *

Police were called to Overlook Avenue to recover a stolen Hyundai Elantra parked on the street. The car was processed for fingerprints and five cards were lifted. The cards were submitted to AFIS for processing. The vehicle had a front passenger's side flat tire and damage to the front. The ignition had been broken and a USB cord was inserted into it as to start the vehicle. The vehicle was removed from NCIC as stolen. American Recovery was contacted to tow the car because of the flat tire and damaged ignition.

* * *

An employee at Dr. Pepper, 920 E. 17th St., told police someone broke the latch and lock off a trailer and stole approximately $600 of soft drinks.

* * *

A woman at Publix at 8644 E. Brainerd Road told police a man placed a handwritten note on her vehicle complaining about how she parked. The man confirmed this and stated the woman flipped him off and, once he heard her calling police, he stayed on scene to speak with officers. Both left without incident.

* * *

While conducting a visit at an elementary school at New City Fellowship, 2424 E. 3rd St., an officer saw a man in the parking lot riding his bicycle in circles. The officer spoke to the man and asked if he would identify himself. He said he lived nearby and was just riding his new bicycle. The man then went about his day. The bicycle he was riding was a new BMX style chrome multi-color bike.

* * *

The manager of Champs Shoes at Hamilton Place Mall told police he saw a white male enter the business and ask to try on a pair of shoes. The manager said the man grabbed the shoes out of the box and then took off running out of the business, past all points of sale. The thief entered the mall where the manager began to chase after the suspect. Hamilton Place Mall security and police saw the suspect and were able to detain him and the manager was able to recover the stolen pair of shoes. The manager said he didnt want to prosecute but wanted the man banned from the store. Hamilton Place Security banned the man from the entire mall and all properties that are owned by the mall owners. The shoes were valued at $230.
A lot has been said about Joe Reed these last few months and many people who dont personally know him have different opinions. Joe is physically imposing standing 64" and consistently bench presses over 500 pounds on video. He will be quick to tell you about his past as a former gangster who was federally convicted of cocaine distribution many years ago and that he has since reformed.





When Joe was released from federal prison some people unfortunately turned their backs on him; however many others supported his dreams.Joes heart yearned to become a successful entrepreneur and businessman even though he didnt have a formal support system. He is a passionate and charismatic people person who made an indelible impact in dozens of Chattanoogans lives. He is the father of several children and they are his first priority.





The catalyst for Joes evolution from hustler to humanitarian was not only due to his years confined in incarceration but from when Joes son was tragically murdered. The loss was devastating and at times overwhelming for Joe and his family, but he knew he must find a legal occupation, be a self reliant provider and put food on the table. The news as well as activists largely ignored the story of another young black male senselessly killed by gun violence as it doesnt sell newspapers, gain advertisement revenue or increase online traffic but for Joe it was all he thought about.





The murder of his son was an epiphany for him that he needed to do all he could to stop the homicides by any means necessary as a way of honoring his sons life and ensure that no other parent experiences the pain, suffering and grief that he feels every day. He misses his son tremendously and that is why he works relentlessly. Joes story is one of redemption. Getting to save lives is cathartic for him.





I built up a friendship with Joe Reed when I was campaigning for mayor. I was inspired by Joes huge smile, can do mantra and positive attitude. He was hungry to be a part of an altruistic grassroots movement. I knew that people on the street listened to and respected him; his personality was magnetic. We shared a common goal and that was holding killers accountable and protecting our city. Joe put his money where his mouth is and put up and publicized a $5,000 reward to catch the murderers of two innocent young female homicide victims in the Westside. One of the girls shot and killed was a minor. She was gunned down when her beautiful life was beginning. Joe and I both have daughters and felt called into action. Instead of catching fireflies our precious youth was catching stray bullets.





Killing civilians - especially women and children - violated the street code so we were able to encourage people to come forward with any information they had regarding several homicides if civilians or children were murdered. It was a tight line we walked between accountability and justice seeking while not losing street credibility.





When parents wanted their children to get out of gangs they called Joe. Joe would then attempt to negotiate the release of the kids from the gang with the gang leaders. When Brainerd High School was having numerous fights, threats and guns brought to school Brainerds beloved principal decided to bring in Joe Reed because Mr. Reed had a well-known reputation for intervening and stopping homicides and gang wars in the Scenic City. In other words, Joe got results when all other options had failed.





Joe Reed and I decided last summer to co-found a charity. We were appalled by kids being shot and killed in Chattanooga so we invested thousands of dollars out of our own pockets to do something about it. We launched a fully licensed 501(c)(3) non-profit called Street Smarts. We prevented numerous murders by offering support systems and financial incentives for people to do the right thing and put the guns down, not seek retribution that will land them behind bars and to have faith that we will help them with money if they are dealing with food insecurity and are destitute. Joes message got through to them that if they continue down the wrong path they will end up dead or in jail and it isnt glamorous like some music and movies romanticize it.





We achieved all of this without any support from the local government who gave us empty promises or ignored our phone calls and online messages whereby we enthusiastically asked for synergistic bureaucratic cooperation. We were blessed with some private funding which helped us do more on a grander scale.





Joes background as a former gangster is great for actually reducing gun violence but some people hesitate to embrace that reality. Transparency is important and so is communication. Instead of rooting for our mission to fail we invite everyone to help find these killers who still remain at large. As the old saying goes Everyone likes sausage, but no one likes to know how it's made.

Andrew McLaren

* * * Mr. McLaren, are you referring to the Josephus Reed charged with punching a student in the face at Brainerd because the student allegedly didn't remove his hoodie? A person of that caliber and mindset in no way represents someone who should be allowed around children. Mentally and socially such a person is still in prison.

If all these programs that continue to crop up are so effective why then do the communities and people they're suppose to benefit continue to deteriorate? Somebody's playing somebody, and it's all about the money and not about uplifting and bettering the lives of others or inspiring the children to be better citizens when the adults in charge behave worse than the youth they claim to serve.

I tend to agree with County Mayor Weston Wamp when it comes to funding some of these programs. Some are guilty of lining their own pockets and basically do nothing for the citizens or the communities they claim to serve.

What happens should the funding dry up? Create or manufacture chaos, hold everyone hostage 'til they cave and dump more money into ineffective programs?

Back in the day the Boys 'n Girls organization was fairly reliable. They once had buses even to go around and pick youths up from varying communities and take them to the site. I don't think there's enough funding for that anymore. Funding is being stretched too thin. Anyone can correct me if I'm wrong. But at one time it was the hopping place and youths around the city couldn't wait to get to after school and during summer months.

Somebody needs to take stock of all these so-called programs cropping up claiming to have all the answers for struggling youths and the ills of the communities those youths live.

If integrity is who we are when no one's watching, this Reed person failed miserably, because he obviously thought no one was watching and could allow his true nature to come out. We need to be more careful of who we allow to interact with our young. Otherwise, we have to live with the life-long damage and consequences of not taking the steps to protect them.

If what I say here angers someone, I really don't care. I'm tired of the exploitation of our young people and the communities they live, and anyone can see the obvious, as the young and the communities continue to slip farther and farther backwards.

Brenda Washington




Were tickled to death, said Barbara K. of McMinn County, speaking for herself and her husband, Sam, who scratched a Tennessee Lottery 100X instant ticket recently to find he had won a seven-figure prize.We still cant believe it. Its unreal, said the couple, who raise shih tzu dogs and care for family. Sam, a retiree, purchased the lucky ticket at Sunrise Market, 1300 Railroad Ave. in Athens.The couple claimed the big prize at the Tennessee Lotterys Nashville headquarters last week and said they look forward to making home improvements, paying a bill or two and more.Including the lucky duo, Tennessee Lottery players won a grand total of $24,862,048 during the week of April 9  15.
The Collegedale Greenway will soon be getting restrooms for the public. The commissioners at a meeting Monday night approved a bid to renovate an existing building where the facilities will be added. Three bids were received, the lowest one for $159,233 was accepted. That does not include painting which will be an additional $7,000.

The remodeled building will be handicapped accessible, will have two fully tiled bathrooms, a new heat and air system, reconfigured electrical wiring and conversion to LED lights. There will also be a water bottle filling station for the public, an office space for the Collegedale Parks and Recreation department and a kitchen/break area.

Money for this was allocated in the current years budget but an $8,000 budget amendment will be needed for overages. The motion to approve was passed on a vote of three to one with Commissioner Tonya Sadler opposed.



Repairs for the greenway at Tucker Road and University Place was also approved. This will fix damage to the greenway underpass caused by the recent train derailment. The commissioners approved spending $138,200 for the work which will cover everything except the road, which will be done by TDOT. The expense will be reimbursed by Norfolk Southern whose train was responsible for the damage.

A new development was approved for property off of Apison Pike that is currently zoned as C-1 Shopping Center Commercial. The Collegedale Planning Commission recommended approval of the project and the city commissioners followed by approving it on the first reading. Along Apison Pike, there will be two commercial buildings for small businesses. The road that enters the property between the commercial buildings will end in a cul-de-sac that will have five lots zoned to R-1-H, High Density Single Family Residential. Vice Mayor Tim Johnson voted no citing a concern that cars turning onto the road will end up becoming a problem in the circle of the residential neighborhood. There will be a public meeting where residents of adjacent neighborhoods will be able to voice their opinions before a second and final vote.

Mayor Marty Lloyd said that one of the most frequent requests he hears as a city official is to slow down cars. The police will have some help doing that with the approval of four new Stalker Radar units for new vehicles that have been ordered for the police department. Each unit costs $2,518 for a total amount of $10,376. Collegedale will be reimbursed 100 percent for the radar equipment with a grant from the state of Tennessee.

Finance Director Michelle Toro said Collegedales finances are looking great. At 75 percent of the way through the fiscal year, 97 percent of projected income has been received and 71 percent of the budgeted amount has been spent.
Officials said Tuesday that the firm now manufacturing nylon at the old Dupont plant in Hixson plans a $50 million expansion.

Kordsa site supervisor Tommy Johnson said the project, which will include construction of a new building, will add 200 new jobs.

Kordsa currently has 200 employees at the Hixson location.

Jermaine Freeman, of city economic development, said there once were some 5,000 employees at Dupont.

He said with the new project and the commerce center announced earlier by Rise Partners that jobs at the site would pass 1,000.

Kordsa, which is on a 300-acre site, is seeking a 10-year PILOT tax break.

Mr. Freeman said it will only apply to improvements at the property. The school tax will continue.

A TIF (Tax Increment Financing) district was earlier set up at the Dupont site.

Officials said the PILOT was necessary because Kordsa was considering putting the addition at a plant it operates at Laurel Hill, N.C.

There will be an apprenticeship program at Kordsa, while partnering with Chattanooga officials said.

Mr. Freeman said another benefit will be that Kordsa will allow a section of a planned new Hixson greenway to go across its property.

The new employees will be recruited from Chattanooga, it was stated.

Steve Hiatt, of the Chamber of Commerce, said Kordsa makes industrial strength nylon used for tires and other products. He said they supply all the major tire manufacturers. The firm has six plants in the U.S.

The PILOT will include a 100 percent tax reduction the first year, 75 percent the second year, 60 percent the third year, then 50 percent per year for the remainder.

Governor Bill Lee said, As Tennessee continues to lead the automotive industry, we proudly welcome additional investment and job creation from companies around the globe. I thank Kordsa, Inc. for investing $50 million in Chattanooga and creating new opportunities for Tennessee families in Hamilton County to thrive.

TNECD Commissioner Stuart McWhorter said, We are grateful Kordsa, Inc. has chosen to further invest in Hamilton County. This is a global company that we are proud to have in Tennessee, and we believe Chattanooga will continue to be the ideal location for this companys future growth and success.

Kadir Toplu, COO, Kordsa, Inc., said, Kordsa, Inc. is excited to announce that we are committed to providing growth opportunities at our Chattanooga facility. At Kordsa, we believe that our employees are our greatest strength, and we are proud of being able to create many new jobs in the future. Our Kordsa Facility wants to continue the development of our business and our community for generations to come. Not only do our products reinforce many important products, but our core values reinforce our commitment to providing the best quality products made by the best employees. Kordsa would like to express the most sincere thanks to the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD) for assisting us with this project, which will create jobs and opportunities for our community. Tennessee - America at its Best.

Mayor Tim Kelly said, Kordsa's investment, combined with Rise Partners' ongoing investment in the North River Commerce Center, brings the total investment in the former DuPont property to more than $150 million. This is a prime example of Chattanooga's continued commitment to revitalization and job creation across the city.

County Mayor Weston Wamp said, It's encouraging to see a company like Kordsa breathe new life into an industrial site that has played a significant role in Hamilton County's economic history. Two of my own great grandfathers moved to Hamilton County to pursue long careers at DuPont, and our hope is that Kordsa continues the legacy of quality employment on this site in Chattanooga for many years to come.

John Bradley, TVA senior vice president of Economic Development, said, TVA and EPB congratulate Kordsa, Inc. on its decision to expand operations in Hamilton County. Its always an exciting day when we can celebrate a companys continued commitment to growth in the region. We are proud to partner with the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development, City of Chattanooga, Hamilton County and the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce to support companies like Kordsa, Inc. that are creating jobs and investment in the Valley, and we celebrate this announcement together.

Senator Bo Watson said, This major expansion of Kordsa is a testament to the unique assets of Chattanooga. By actively engaging with the private sector, incentivizing growth, and cutting red tape, companies like Kordsa are expanding their operations, strengthening the economy and creating good-paying jobs in Hamilton County and across the state.

Rep. Greg Martin said, Tennessee continues to be a place where both new and existing businesses can thrive. This expansion by Kordsa shows why that is so important. Not only will this significant investment further strengthen our local economy, but it will also bring 200 new jobs to our community. I appreciate Kordsas continued commitment to Chattanooga.
In Touch Ministries announced that beloved pastor Dr. Charles Frazier Stanley had passed away at 7:30 a.m. Tuesday at age 90.

Known to audiences around the world through his wide-reaching TV and radio broadcasts, Dr. Stanley modeled his 65 years of ministry after the apostle Pauls message in Acts 20:24: Life is worth nothing unless I use it for doing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesusthe work of telling others the Good News about Gods mighty kindness and love.

Born Sept. 25, 1932, at the height of the Great Depression, in Dry Fork, Virginia, Stanley was raised by a single mother after his father died when Stanley was only nine months old.

After receiving a call to ministry at the age of 14, Dr. Stanley earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Richmond in Richmond, Virginia, and a Bachelor of Divinity at Southwestern Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas. He later went on to earn the distinctions of Master and Doctor of Theology from Luther Rice Seminary in Atlanta.

Before joining the staff of First Baptist Atlanta, Dr. Stanley served as pastor of Fruitland Baptist near Hendersonville, North Carolina (19571959); First Baptist of Fairborn, Ohio (19591962); First Baptist of Miami, Florida (19621968); and First Baptist of Bartow, Florida (1968). Dr. Stanley would become associate pastor of First Baptist Church of Atlanta on October 1, 1969.

It was two years later, on October 1, 1971, when Dr. Stanley assumed his longtime role as senior pastor of First Baptist Atlanta. The following year, he launched his foray into broadcast ministry with a 30-minute program, The Chapel Hour, on Atlanta-area TV stations WXIA and WANX (now WGCL).

The Chapel Hourrenamed In Touch with Dr. Charles Stanleywent nationwide in 1978 after the Christian Broadcasting Network contacted Dr. Stanley, looking for a practical, Bible-teaching program for its new satellite distribution network. The broadcast grew from 16,000 local viewers to a nationwide audience in just one week. This led to the expansion and incorporation of Dr. Stanleys ministry as a separate non-profit entity called In Touch Ministries (ITM) in 1982 and the In Touch radio broadcast entered syndication.

During the 1980s, the In Touch program penetrated almost every major market in the United States, reaching more than 1 million households. At the time of his death, Dr. Stanleys messages were heard in more than 127 languages around the world via radio, shortwave, the Messenger Lab project, or TV broadcasts. Dr. Stanley was the countrys longest-serving pastor with a continuous weekly broadcast program.

Believing, as he often said, that people are to obey God and leave all the consequences to Him," Dr. Stanley focused his preaching on practical, Christ-centered, biblically based principles for everyday life. Many of his messages incorporated the 30 Life Principles that guided his life and helped him grow in his knowledge, service, and love of God. Other messages tackled such topics as parenting, finances, personal crises, emotions and relationships, prayer, and the character of God. Not having sought out the public spotlight, Dr. Stanley was a pastor who happened to be on TV, focused on teaching others how to seek and obey God through adversity and personal hardships.

Notable organizations and publishers honored Dr. Stanley throughout his long ministry. Stanley served two terms as president of the Southern Baptist Convention in 1985 and 1986. In 1988, he was inducted into the National Religious Broadcasters Hall of Fame for the consistent excellence of his broadcast, and leadership in the realm of Christian TV and radio. Religious Heritage of America named him Clergyman of the Year in 1989, an award that recognizes pastors who strive to make Judeo-Christian principles part of Americas daily life. In 1993, the NRB honored In Touch with the Television Producer of the Year award, and in 1999, with the Radio Program of the Year award. Most recently, Dr. Stanley was recognized for selling more than 10 million copies of his more than 70 books, the latest of which was published in 2023.

Dr. Stanley was also known for his love of photography. Stanleys images from his personal travels fill the walls of In Touch Ministries Atlanta headquarters and inspire program viewers to explore the beauty of Gods creation.

In September 2020, Dr. Stanley transitioned to the role of pastor emeritus of First Baptist Atlanta after serving 50 years as senior pastor.

Dr. Stanley is survived by his son Andy Stanley, founding and senior pastor of North Point Ministries; daughter Becky Stanley Broderson; six grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and half-sister Susie Cox. His former wife, Anna Johnson Stanley, preceded him in death. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to In Touch Ministries.

A memorial site can be found at https://www.charlesstanley.com.
A new face is joining the Deadliest Catch cast. Celebrated fisherman Linda Greenlaw will team up with Captain Wild Bill Wichrowski for the 19th season of the Discovery Channel reality series, which premieres April 18.

Linda Greenlaw joins Deadliest Catch Season 19

Greenlaw has spent decades swordfishing in the icy Atlantic waters off the coast of Maine. But does she have what it takes to tackle crabbing in the Bering Sea? Shell find out when she partners up with Wichrowski on the F/V Summer Bay in the new season of Deadliest Catch.

I wanted to learn from the best  and I did, Greenlaw told the Bangor Daily News when speaking of joining Deadliest Catch. Wild Bill is not the most patient teacher, but his safety record and fishing ability are second to none. We are sort of like the odd couple. Hes all gruff and negative while Im sheer optimism.

A character based on Greenlaw was featured in The Perfect Storm

Linda Greenlaw of Deadliest Catch | Discovery Channel

Greenlaw might not have experience crabbing in Alaska, but shes far from a greenhorn when it comes to fishing. Americas only female swordfishing captain has been heading out to sea for more than 40 years.

If Greenlaws name sounds familiar, that might be because a character based on her was featured in the 2000 George Clooney movie The Perfect Storm, where she was portrayed by Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio. Shes also written five non-fiction books about her life as a commercial fisherman, including The Hungry Ocean and All Fisherman Are Liars. In addition, shes the author of two cookbooks (co-written with her mother Martha Greenlaw) as well as several mystery novels featuring Jane Bunker, a Miami homicide detective who returns to her hometown in Maine and discovers that even sleepy fishing villages can be hotbeds of crime.

Greenlaw also starred in the Discovery Channel series Swords: Life on the Line. That show aired for three seasons from 2009 to 2012 and focused on swordfishing in New England.

Greenlaw reveals the biggest challenge she faced when becoming part of the Deadliest Catch cast

So, how did Greenlaw handle the shift to fishing in Alaska? It wasnt as hard as you might expect.

Transitioning to the crab fishery was not too difficult for me, she told Spectrum Local News ahead of the Deadliest Catch Season 19 premiere. I have been involved in the offshore red cred fishery here in New England and have been fishing fixed gear on and off since I was a kid.

Still, the new environment did take some getting used to, Greenlaw admitted.

The difference was primarily hauling single, massive pots as opposed to trawls of smaller traps, she explained. Finding crab was the biggest challenge. This was my first experience with Bairdi crab and also my first trip on the Bering Sea.

Deadliest Catch Season 19 premieres Tuesday, April 18 at 8 p.m. ET on Discovery Channel.

For more on the entertainment world and exclusive interviews, subscribe to Showbiz Cheat Sheets YouTube channel.
Whether in the industrial environment, in mobility or at home: "Smart services" require data that is processed and evaluated. Altosens GmbH, a Fraunhofer LBF spin-off from Osnabruck founded in April 2022, offers novel cloud-based force sensors that measure forces where this was previously not easily possible. This allows unexpected service operations to be reduced and therefore systems that are difficult to access to be operated more economically. Such a monitoring system can, for example, increase the profitability of wind turbines, especially for offshore turbines, where on-site maintenance is costly due to difficult accessibility. More information is available from the Altosens team in the Startup Area at Hannover Messe, Hall 17, Booth B 65.

The digital transformation, Industry 4.0 and "Smart Services" pose major challenges for industry. Machine learning and artificial intelligence methods are opening up new opportunities for value creation via data-driven business models. Common to all applications and business models is the use of multi-physical sensor data. In order to obtain relevant data with little additional effort, economically feasible, robust and easily integrable sensors are required.

From scientific research to spin-off company

By research in the field of smart materials, a team of scientists at the Fraunhofer Institute for Structural Durability and System Reliability LBF developed the capacitive DELTA-C technology. Through an internal Fraunhofer programs for technology transfer, the Darmstadt research team came into contact with Uwe Steinkamp, the now CEO of Altosens GmbH. Together, they planned and pushed ahead with the founding of the startup. Dr. William Kaal, group leader for vibration optimization at the Fraunhofer LBF and co-developer of the DELTA-C technology: "I am pleased that the founding of Altosens means that a technology developed by us at the Fraunhofer LBF is on its way to be available on an industrial scale and therefore can created benefit for various users. With Altosens as a partner, we can further develop the technology in an even more targeted manner and better support our customers."

Individually adaptable force sensors for a wide range of applications

After the foundation of Altosens GmbH, a first customer from the logistics/automotive sector could already be won with the Jost-Group, which benefits in particular from the sensor properties "overload capability" and "installation space-neutral integration". With the help of the constantly growing modular system, Altosens is able to realize first prototypes within a few months. Thus, sensor prototypes for various applications in logistics, household and wind turbines have already been realized in the founding year.

Increasing the profitability of wind turbines thanks to innovative sensor technology

With a force-measuring washer, Altosens plans to increase the profitability of wind turbines by reducing unplanned service operations. Especially for offshore turbines, these operations cause relevant costs due to difficult accessibility. A cloud-based monitoring system with the Altosens force sensors serves as the basis for this. The sensors contain an integrated evaluation unit, which can also provide information about the remaining service life of the structure, bolt prestressing forces, load trends, etc. using the methods of fatigue strength.
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The Ukrainian Orthodox Church of St. Michael the Archangel, which had been around for more than a century, and a central library, were destroyed by the Russian missile in Komyshuvakha Region. Luckily, there was no mass or church service at that moment.

Destruction of Central Church and Library

A report from the Ukrinform stated that on Sunday, Apr. 16, at approximately 02:30 in the morning, Russian troops fired S-300 missiles toward the Kushuhum village located in the Zaporizhzhia region.

According to the head of the community, Yurii Karapetian, the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of St. Michael the Archangel was struck by one of them, which serves as the primary place of worship in our community Komyshuvakha.

Since many people typically accommodate the church, they are giving thanks to God that there was neither a service nor a blessing of Easter food in the building at the time. Moreover, the village's main library and another religious institution's building were damaged due to the missile attack.

As per the senior priest Volodymyr, due to the potential missile assault, there was a directive to cancel any night services that were scheduled. At five in the morning, they would have the Easter service and bless the meal everyone would be eating. They were awakened around 2:30 in the morning by the sound of an explosion. All services have been postponed, and we are dismantling the rubble," he added.

As mentioned, before the full-scale invasion by the Russians, there were approximately 13,000 residents living in the community. However, it decreased to approximately 8,000 individuals living there at this time.

In addition, regarding the attack that took place overnight in Russia, preliminary information indicates that one person was hurt and is currently being treated in a hospital.

Also Read:Aerial Bombing in Myanmar Killed Members of Bible Missionary Church

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy Calling for Unity

NHK World Japan reported that in his speech on the celebration of Easter, the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, urged the country to come together in opposition to Russia. When a local religious facility was attacked, officials in the eastern province of Dnipropetrovsk claimed on social media that several people were injured due to the incident.

In a video message that Zelenskyy shared with the public, he wished them a happy Easter while dressed in the traditional garb of Ukraine. He stated that the people in Ukraine have already made significant progress. Yet, the most challenging of the peaks is still to come.

The president noted that once the people conquer it, "they will meet their dawn, and the sun will rise all over Ukraine." Zelenskyy continued by saying that the sun would shine in the south and the east, as well as in Crimea. He also reaffirmed his determination to reclaim all Ukraine's lands, including Crimea, by any means necessary.

On the other hand, The Guardian reported that the number of people killed by a missile assault carried out by Russia on the city of Sloviansk in eastern Ukraine has increased to 11. A multi-story apartment building sustained significant damage, and rescue personnel continued their efforts on Saturday, Apr. 15, to extricate people from the debris of the building.

Related Article:Russian Invasion in Ukraine Destroyed At Least 494 Religious Buildings
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Since 2019, Eglise Sainte-Marie in Church Point, Nova Scotia, has been inactive and allegedly faces demolition or might be sold. However, the church will be spared by the generosity of an unknown individual who will reportedly cover the $10 million worth of repairs and ongoing maintenance, consequently making the church operational again.

Saving the Church in Nova Scotia

For the past nine years, the organization has been trying to rescue the Eglise Sainte-Marie in Church Point by pleading with the community and the three tiers of government to donate the necessary money to make the required repairs, Yahoo News reported.

As mentioned, the president of Societe Edifice Sainte-Marie de La Pointe, Pierre Comeau, said, "What we were trying to do was to save it as a structure and a monument to our ancestors whose ingenuity and perseverance have built this magnificent structure. But it would not have been a church." However, they were unable to raise sufficient funds. A couple of months ago, it was decided that the building either needed to be torn down or put up for sale.

Luckily, Comeau announced that an unknown donor has offered to pay for the repairs and ongoing maintenance of the renowned landmark, estimated to cost ten million dollars. There is, however, a condition. It must be a functioning church again, which has not been operating since 2019.

Moreover, it seems as though the prayers of the people working to save the Eglise Sainte-Marie at Church Point, Nova Scotia, may have been heard. "It's a fabulous offer, and the group that we're with, we're tickled pink," he added.

CBC News reported Comeau stated that the organization would be holding a public meeting the following weekend in the Saint-Alphonse Church to discuss the Eglise Sainte-Marie's future.

He claimed the region would have too many churches if the structure became operational again. It is reportedly possible that some others will no longer function as active churches, adding that nuances must be sorted out later.

Comeau also noted that he and the Archdiocese of Halifax-Yarmouth agree with the potential contributor. He has high hopes that the repair work will get underway this summer.

Also Read:Lilly Endowment Inc. Gave $3 Million Grant for Reconstruction of Historic First Baptist Church in Williamsburg

Construction of Eglise Sainte-Marie in Church Point

Canada's Historic Places stated that the Sainte-Marie Church completed its construction in 1905, with local master carpenter Leo Melanson as the project's supervisor. The church was built according to the designs of French architect Auguste Regneault. Melanson built several other churches in the area out of wood frames, and Pope Pius XII presented him with a medal in 1944 for his work on Sainte Marie.

Accordingly, Father Pierre-Marie Dagnaud, a member of the Eudist Order and the local priest at the time, is mainly responsible for the building's construction. The local Catholic community, the descendants of the Acadian families who landed in the area in 1769 from Massachusetts, commissioned the construction of this church, which marks the third church to be built on the site to satisfy their religious needs. These families survived the Deportation of 1755 and eventually made their way back to Nova Scotia on foot. This group of displaced Acadians resettled in the Church Point region since they could not return to their original houses since they had either been burned down or occupied by English-speaking settlers.

Related Article: Tabernacle Baptist Church Receives $750K Grant for Church Repairs
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By adopting a new model for higher education that promotes affordability for all socioeconomic levels, a conservative Christian college in Phoenix, Arizona, has seen a considerable increase in enrollment over the previous decade and tripled its numbers. The president of Grand Canyon University (GCU), Briean Mueller, has released a statement about the university's distinctive approach to providing higher education and its appeal to families nationwide.

Mueller noted that families are more likely to be enticed to a campus visit when they learn that a low-cost private Christian university is available. The success of GCU has been largely attributed to its emphasis on comprehending the changing labor market, economics, and career options. Additionally, the university works to give students the tools they need to launch successful professions without amassing enormous debt.

Grand Canyon University's Increase in the Population of Students Fueled by Outstanding Approach

As per the Fox News report, the university's groundbreaking approaches have made higher education more accessible to a diverse array of students. These innovative methods have also positioned GCU as a trailblazer in the field, inspiring other institutions striving to adapt to the fast-paced changes in the industry.

The university was established in the year 1949. There has been a great increase in the number of enrollees from the university, having an estimated 7,602 in 2012 to an impressive 25,350 in 2022. Alongside this growth, the number of students pursuing their studies online has also doubled during this period.

The enrollment figures for each incoming class have surpassed historical highs, according to GCU President Brian Mueller. He believes the university's student body will reach 50,000 in the next ten years. GCU has already purchased the required land and started building to meet this increase.

Back in 2008, Mueller took over as the president of GCU, which had a small number of students studying there of about only 1,000. According to Daily Mail, since then, the college has increased its efforts by investing billions of dollars in developing its campus and academic offerings, which has resulted in substantial development.

There are now 300 programs to choose from for on-campus and online students instead of the previous 100. Mueller credits the university's dedication to reviving the nearby underprivileged community, freezing tuition rates, and offering large subsidies to students to contribute to its success.

Also Read: Christian University in Kentucky To Pay $14 million Settlement Following Death of Wrestler Student During On-campus Workouts

The GCU's Commitment

The website of the Grand Canyon University, a private Christian institution in Phoenix, Arizona, aims to improve students' lives through education. They provide various undergraduate and graduate programs, both on-campus and online, with devoted faculty and staff to support students throughout their journey.

While a Christian university, GCU embraces students from different backgrounds and religious affiliations, focusing on helping them reach their potential and earn a degree. The speaker emphasized that GCU's unique mission, dedication, and history set it apart from other Christian universities and encouraged the audience to learn more about the institution.

Related Article: Jesuit-Led Ateneo de Manila University Face Scandal Involving Student Bringing Home Communion Wafer, Post Review Online
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The allegations made by the brother of a Vatican schoolgirl who disappeared four decades ago, accusing one of his predecessors, Saint John Paul II, were denounced by Pope Francis as unfounded and disrespectful on Sunday.

After having a piano lesson in Rome on June 22, 1983, Emanuela Orlandi, who was 15 then, vanished. Orlandi, the daughter of a Vatican usher, resided inside the Vatican's gates with her family. One of Italy's longest-running enigmas is the reason behind her mysterious departure.

Pope Francis Denies Claims Made About Saint John Paul II Concerning the Long-standing Vatican Disappearance

In the article in Reuters, at a recent engagement, the pope addressed the accusations made by Orlandi's brother. He categorically denied any involvement of Saint John Paul II in the unsolved crime. The Holy Father expressed his disdain for such unsubstantiated assertions, highlighting the significance of the truth and respect for the late pontiff's memory.

Tuesday's meeting between Pietro Orlandi and the head prosecutor of the Vatican, Alessandro Diddi, marked a new stage in investigating the case of Orlandi's sister Emanuela, who vanished 40 years ago. Pope Francis has given Diddi complete autonomy to solve the persistent riddle.

Pietro Orlandi appeared on a television program where he played a segment of an audio tape after an eight-hour talk with Diddi. Orlandi asserts that the voice belonged to a person associated with a gang that Italian media has long thought was responsible for his sister's disappearance.

The alleged offender claims in the recording that Pope John Paul II was conscious of incidents in which girls were brought to the Vatican for molestation more than 40 years ago. This latest development has rekindled interest in the issue among the general public and prompted inquiries regarding the late pope's possible participation.

Also Read:Pope Francis Leads Inspiring Easter Mass for Thousands in St. Peter's Square

Netflix Documentary Investigates the Theories Surrounding the Disappearance of Emanuela Orlandi

Another source, the Associated Press News, shared that the daughter of a civilian employee of the Vatican, Emanuela Orlandi, vanished on June 22, 1983, after leaving her family's residence in Vatican City to attend a piano lesson in Rome. Numerous explanations have been proposed for her inexplicable disappearance in the 40-year-old case.

Connections to Pope John Paul II's attempted assassination in St. Peter's Square in 1981 and the global financial scandal involving the Vatican Bank are among the theories. Others claim that the case might have involved Rome's criminal underbelly.

The four-part Netflix documentary "Vatican Girl" explores these potential outcomes, which just came out and provided new information on the mysterious case. In the documentary, a friend testifies that Emanuela confided in her about unwanted approaches a high-ranking Vatican cleric made a week before she vanished.

The documentary has rekindled popular interest in the case, which continues to be one of Italy's most puzzling mysteries, while the inquiry is conducted under Vatican Chief Prosecutor Alessandro Diddi.

An article in New York Daily News reports that Pope John Paul II has come under fire for allegedly covering up child abuse. In response to these claims, Pope Francis vehemently denied any association between the late pope and the unresolved case of Emanuela Orlandi on Sunday. He made them two weeks after leaving a Roman hospital after a three-day stint for a respiratory ailment.

Pope Francis has enthusiastically participated in several Holy Week activities, such as celebrating Easter Sunday Mass, despite his current health issues. The Catholic Church is dedicated to defending the dignity of its leaders and safeguarding the principles of truth and justice, even while the Vatican looks into the Orlandi case and addresses the accusations against Saint John Paul II.

Related Article: Pope Francis Engages in Candid Conversation with 10 Fearless Young Voices
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During the Orthodox Easter services, a church in Ukraine was allegedly targeted by the Russian military. The attack was announced in a Telegram post on Sunday morning by Serhii Lysak, the head of the military administration for the Dnipro Oblast in Ukraine.

He stated that two people, aged 57 and 38, were hurt in the event, which happened at a temple in Nikopol. According to Lysak, this assault shows that "there is nothing sacred" to the Russian military.

Russian Forces Strike Ukrainian Church

This tragic incident has happened for about more than a year after Russian President Vladimir Putin launched the "special military operation" against Ukraine in February of the previous year with the expectation of an immediate victory. According to News Week, despite the fight lasting for several months, Russian troops had trouble achieving important goals, which allowed Ukraine to retake thousands of square kilometers of territory. The eastern regions of Ukraine suffers the most for the violence taking place is harsh.

According to Lysak, a church was the target of a vicious assault over the weekend that destroyed five homes, numerous agricultural buildings, two cars, and electricity lines all around the city, in addition to the religious facility.

He swore that justice would be done and those responsible for these horrible crimes would not escape punishment. He is confident that despite the bloodshed, the Ukrainian people's unyielding spirit and strong faith would prevail over the aggressor's evil.

As Ukrainians celebrated Orthodox Easter Sunday, the attack happened. It's important to remember that most people in Ukraine, or 78% of the country's population, identify as Orthodox Christians and celebrate Easter on a different date from other Christian faiths, like Protestants and Catholics. The Orthodox Church has a separate calendar, which explains why.

Also Read:President Zelenskyy: Ukraine Asserts 'Spiritual Independence' Through Church Actions

Institute for the Study of War suggests the Russia-Kyiv Cease-fire

According to the shared article in MSN, Ukraine used the occasion to address Russia while celebrating Orthodox Easter. According to the Ukrainian Operational Command North, Ukrainian soldiers painted weapons, including grenades, in the country's colors to mimic Easter eggs.

The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) suggested that Russia approach Kyiv about a cease-fire over the Easter break to avert a potential Ukrainian invasion. The American think group claimed that the Kremlin might request a cease-fire "out of respect for the Orthodox religion" despite Russia's lack of regard for religion in areas under its control. But Moscow reportedly rejected this notion, according to a Russian news agency TASS report.

Vladimir Putin, the president of Russia, attended Easter services on Saturday at Moscow's Christ the Savior Cathedral. According to VOA News, Putin was seen crossing himself multiple times during the Divine Liturgy, a midnight prayer. Putin and other congregation members reacted to Patriarch Kirill's announcement, saying, "Truly he has risen."

Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the president of Ukraine, spoke about the festival and how it represents the victory of good, the victory of truth, and the victory of life. In his Easter message, made public on Sunday, he also highlighted the significance of Ukrainian unity in the face of Russian aggression.

He mentioned in his speech that belief in victory unites everyone, particularly on that day, and went on to state that Easter, a family holiday for Ukrainians, is a day of warmth, hope, and unity. He emphasized that as Ukrainians, they are one big family, with Ukraine being their one big home and their one big goal being victory for all.

Related Article:Filipino Man Nailed to Cross in Commemoration of Crucifixion of Jesus Gives Prayer for the End of Ukraine War
Unsplash/Ian Betley

Amidst a solemn occasion, the Russian military has allegedly attacked a church in Ukraine on Orthodox Easter, leaving two people injured. The attack occurred in Nikopol, confirmed by Serhii Lysak, the head of Ukraine's Dnipro Oblast Military Administration.

Attack on Russian Churches

Confirming the news via Telegram, Newsweek reported that Lysak expressed outrage regarding the incident. He declared that the attack on a church during one of the most important days for the Orthodox Church is a testament to the fact that Russian forces hold no regard for sanctity. In the aftermath of the shelling, two individuals were wounded - a 57-year-old gentleman and a 38-year-old lady.

The Russian military's actions in Nikopol have resulted in more than just the assault on the church. Lysak reported that many structures were impacted, including five residential buildings, multiple farm buildings, two automobiles, and power lines throughout the city.

As mentioned, the incident occurred when Ukrainians rejoiced in the Orthodox Easter festivities, a momentous occasion steeped in religious and cultural significance. In the year 2019, it was reported that approximately 78 percent of the population of Ukraine identified themselves as adherents of the Orthodox Christian faith. The celebration of Easter among Orthodox Christians differs from that of Protestants and Catholics. This year, the latter two celebrated the holiday on Sunday, Apr. 9, while the former observed it on a different day. The variance in the calendar followed by the distinct churches accounts for this discrepancy.

Moreover, the recent attack has ignited a wave of anger in Ukraine, prompting officials to urge the international community to denounce the incident. As of this moment, the episode remains unaddressed by the Russian government.

In a similar report from Christianity Today, since the Russian military invaded Ukraine nearly a year ago, the Institute for Religious Freedom (IRF) based in Kyiv has reported that evangelical Christians have been the target of disproportionate attacks. The IRF has documented the destruction, damage, or looting of at least 494 religious buildings, theological institutions, and sacred sites in Ukraine.

Also Read:Church, Public Officials in Elora and Fergus Gathered to Offer Prayers to Ukraine

Ukraine-Russia War

According to CNN, the conflict between Russia and Ukraine has escalated as Russian forces have initiated an attack on Ukraine. Reports indicate that troops have crossed the border to the north and south, causing explosions in various cities, including Kyiv. Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned of potential bloodshed unless Ukrainian forces surrender their weapons.

As global leaders convened for a United Nations Security Council meeting to prevent a catastrophic event, Russia launched what they called a "special military operation." The looming threat of a potential invasion has sparked concerns that this could ignite the most significant conflict in Europe since the conclusion of World War II.

In addition, at approximately 5 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 17Feb. 17, the initial detonations resonated, eliciting swift censure from the United States and its associates. These nations have vowed to impose comprehensive sanctions in retaliation for Russia's military hostilities.

Amidst the loud wail of air raid sirens piercing through Kyiv in the wee hours of Thursday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky took swift action to implement martial law. Meanwhile, government officials leveled accusations at Moscow, alleging a comprehensive invasion by the Russian military.

Related Article: Russian Invasion in Ukraine Destroyed At Least 494 Religious Buildings
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Two North Carolina-based conferences started "Lighthouse Congregations," an effort earlier this year in response to the ongoing disaffiliations from the UMC denomination. A church that promises to uphold its affiliation with the UMC denomination and welcomes people whose home congregations have decided to do so is known as a Lighthouse Congregation.

Despite the increasing disaffiliations, the Lighthouse Congregations program seeks to give those who want to continue their spiritual journey inside the United Methodist Church a sense of security and community. These congregations act as pillars of strength and solidarity for UMC members who want to keep their ties to the denomination during these difficult times.

Lighthouse Congregation was Established to Serve as a Way to Connect

According to the article in Christian Post, two regional organizations of the mainline Protestant denomination are stepping in to support people who want to stay connected to The United Methodist Church (UMC) as huge numbers of congregations continue to depart the UMC.

A shocking 249 congregations chose to leave the UMC North Carolina Conference last year, and since 2020, 41 churches have left the UMC Western North Carolina Conference. Due to the recent spike in disaffiliation votes, numerous devoted UMC members no longer have a congregational home.

The Christian Post spoke with the Rev. Rob Hutchinson, WNC's Director of Church Development, about the growing initiative. He disclosed that 60 more congregations had finished the initiative's training, and he had personally distributed documents to 15 more conferences.

According to Hutchinson, the concept for Lighthouse Congregations came from a discussion he had with the Rev. Steve Harper of the Florida Conference in October of last year. Harper sent Hutchinson a general idea the following day after discussing how conferences tackled disaffiliation-related concerns. Hutchinson then worked on the concept with the Rev. Tim Catlett, a developer at the NC Conference.

According to UM News, Hutchinson claims that the main objective of Lighthouse Congregations is to give those who have been disaffiliated a way to connect with congregations that are particularly prepared to care for them during this trying period. Despite continuous disaffiliations, he underlined that the effort epitomizes connectionism at its best by assisting United Methodist Church members with a sense of community and belonging.

He also highlighted four key responsibilities for the member churches. The Western North Carolina Conference's Lighthouse Congregations initiative is overseen by the Rev. Rob Hutchinson, who highlighted four key responsibilities for member churches. These congregations are meant to provide opportunities for people from disaffiliating churches to participate in worship and mission activities while providing them with a warm and secure environment. Furthermore, they ought to aid in setting up United Methodist remnant groups looking for a place of worship and keep in touch with their conference and district in order to take advantage of any new resources intended to aid people who choose to be United Methodist.

Also Read: Biggest South Carolina UMC Church Considers Departure from Denomination Amid Homosexuality Controversy

Lighthouse Congregations: Unity, Values, Rapid Expansion

The origins of the idea and its beneficial effects were discussed by Laura Wittman, the coordinating pastor for Lighthouse Congregations, at the North Carolina Annual Conference. In the article in Baptist News, by the time of the annual conference on Father's Day weekend (June 18), they want to have formed roughly 80 Lighthouse Congregations, bringing the total to 100.

Wittman emphasized the initiative's capacity to combat negativity and foster togetherness through common values and behaviors. Early adopters like the Western Pennsylvania Conference have adapted the Lighthouse Congregations model to fit their local contexts, drawing attention to the program's success. The initiative's rapid expansion has generated interest from conferences in Tennessee-Western Kentucky, Kentucky, Ohio, and Texas.

Related Article: Traditionalist UMC Group Dissolves, Joins New Denomination as Fulfillment of Mission
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Under the dictatorship of Daniel Ortega in Nicaragua, a journalist named Victor Ticay was recently detained for reporting on an event that took place during Holy Week. At this time, his release is being demanded by various groups and organizations that fight for the freedom of the press and speech.

Reporting During Holy Week

On the morning of Apr. 6, the police in Nandaime, located in the southwestern region of Nicaragua, detained the reporter working for the local television station Channel 10. A report from the Catholic News Agency stated that he live-streamed a religious event on the Facebook page of La Portada, a local news site that he administers.

Following his arrest, the video was removed from the page. Ticay was taken into custody as a result of the decision made by the dictatorship to outlaw processions and other forms of religious activity that took place in public spaces.

In addition, a recent study claims that in 2023, more than 3,000 Holy Week processions were forbidden to place. He was sent to the "El Chipote" prison, where the dictatorship now holds numerous Catholics, including priests.

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), which has its headquarters in New York City, issued a statement on Friday, Apr. 7, calling for the immediate release of Ticay and an end to the practice of arresting members of the press for performing their professional duties.

Moreover, Catholic Masses reported that the head of programs of the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), Carlos Martinez de la Serna, noted that it is imperative that the government quickly release journalist Victor Ticay and put an end to their persistent campaign of harassment and threats against the press to force them into remaining silent or fleeing the country.

He added that the Nicaraguan government's entire censorship, which includes religious activity, has once again shown its disregard for free expression. Accordingly, Nicaragua's Independent Journalists and Newscasters called the detention "arbitrary and illegal." The group demanded the journalist's "immediate release."

Also Read: Catholic Church Practices on Abstinence and Fasting During Holy Week

The Situation of Nicaragua Under the Dictatorship of Daniel Ortega

As per Wilson Things, throughout the years, members of the Church in Nicaragua, especially priests and bishops, have been vocal in support of the country's less fortunate citizens. When Ortega first seized power in the 1980s, several priests supported his ascent to power, breaking with the official attitude of the Vatican.

However, in recent years, as the Ortega government has accumulated and consolidated more and more power and used it to stifle political dissent and crack down on human rights and civil freedoms, the Church has consistently spoken out against Ortega's repressive policies.

Furthermore, things came to a head at the beginning of 2018, when Ortega used excessive force in response to mostly peaceful demonstrations by students and other people. There were over 350 people slain during the protests. Several Catholic bishops tried to shield the demonstrators by extending an invitation to refuge in their respective churches. Other church officials tried to mediate the dispute, which Ortega saw as a direct danger to his leadership and power.

Accordingly, several church leaders attempted to act as mediators on the issue. As a form of retaliation, churches were vandalized, and their priests were beaten, resulting in injuries. Since then, the Ortega dictatorship has allegedly been responsible for nearly 400 attacks against the Catholic Church and its followers.

These incidents, which include vandalizing church structures, assaults, and arrests, have taken place across Nicaragua. Even Mother Theresa's Missionaries of Charity were kicked out of the country, and Archbishop Waldemar Sommertag, the Vatican's ambassador in Nicaragua, was labeled a persona non grata by the dictatorship.

This year, Ortega has merely brought even more stringent actions. He issued an order that 222 political prisoners would be deported, and at the same time, he revoked their citizenship. Also, after the church leader Bishop Rolando Alvarez disobeyed Ortega's order to deport him, an enraged Ortega had the Bishop charged with treason and sentenced to 26 years in jail for his refusal to comply with the deportation order.

Related Article: Nicaraguan Government Bans Traditions for Holy Week
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Sen. Bill 5599, which might alter how parents are involved in their children's medical treatment in some situations, was passed by the Washington State House on Wednesday. Governor Jay Inslee has advanced the bill, titled "An act relating to supporting youth," one step closer to becoming law.

Under Senate Bill 5599, children may reside in host homes for runaway youth without parental permission. Additionally, the bill mentions that it's not required for the host homes to tell the parents about their child's whereabouts or the medical care they're receiving. Still, there is an exception in some cases where there's a convincing reason not to.

Washington State House Passes Bill Limiting Parental Intervention in Youth Medical Care

According to the article in Fox News, "gender-affirming care," which includes any treatment given by a doctor to address dysphoria in adolescents, is one of the secure health services mentioned in the bill. The law underlines that those who identify as two-spirit, transgender, nonbinary, or belong to other gender-varied categories can be given gender-affirming treatment.

While supporters contend it is a critical step to protect vulnerable adolescents and give them access to crucial healthcare treatments, opponents of the bill allege it violates parental rights. The content of the bill states that opponents contend that the new rule would impair a parent's capacity to safeguard their child and that gender is a matter of individual interpretation. They further assert that the legislation effectively "legalizes the kidnapping of children," makes it possible to house minors, and segregates society.

Despite the criticism, Democratic State Rep. Tana Senn supported the law and gave those it would affect words of support and encouragement. Senn said in an interview with Townhall, "I am saying tonight to them that I see you, that I affirm you, that I hear you, that I love you." The bill's supporters claim that it is an important step to safeguard vulnerable adolescents and guarantee access to crucial healthcare treatments.

Also Read: Arrests Made as Pro-Trans Protesters Swarm Kentucky State Capitol During Veto Override Vote; Two States Ban Gender-Affirming Care on Minors

State Senate Republican Leader Criticizes Washington State Bill for Attacking Parental Rights

John Braun, the head of the state's Republican Senate, strongly disagreed with Senate Bill 5599, contending that it violates the rights of parents and might have unanticipated bad effects. In the story shared in New York Post, the law, according to Braun, could hurt children by dividing them from their parents at a crucial juncture in their lives when they do not have the maturity to make important decisions.

Braun also voiced concern that the bill may prevent parents from learning the circumstances behind their child's abduction, which might prompt law enforcement or other agencies to launch a frenzied search. He underlined the emotional anguish parents could go through at this time, worrying about the worst-case scenario for their child.

Supporters of Washington State Bill Cite Rise in Anti-LGBTQ+ Legislation Across the Nation

Advocates of Senate Bill 5599 are highlighting the recent wave of anti-LGBTQ+ laws across the nation as the conversation around this measure continues to unfold. According to MY Northwest, the ACLU reports that 452 of these pieces of legislation have been introduced, with 29 of them succeeding in 14 states. The supporters of the Washington State law claim that it is essential to oppose any legislation that can be damaging and target the LGBTQ+ population.

The House significantly changed the legislation, requiring shelters and host homes to notify the Washington Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) of a minor's intent to seek gender-affirming care. The department would then decide whether or not to notify the parents in each situation. This amendment aims to strike a balance between respecting parents' rights and addressing the needs of vulnerable youth who require essential medical treatment.

Related Article: Attorney General of Missouri Imposes Emergency Order Limiting Gender-Affirming Treatments
If the Bible is humanitys source of absolute truths, why do so many readers interpret it differently? Cuban-American theologian, Dr. Justo Gonzalez has gained acclaim for examining this question in works like The Story of Christianity and This History of Christian Thought. In this episode of VOICES Where Ya From? podcast, Dr. Gonzalez joins host Rasool Berry to discuss how our contextand even Jesus contextshapes how we read, interpret, and engage with Gods Word.

Guest Bio:

Born and raised in Cuba, Dr. Justo L. Gonzalez was ordained as a minister within the Methodist church in 1957. In 1961, he became the youngest person to earn a doctorate in Theological History from Yale University. For thirty years, Dr. Gonzalez taught at various theological institutions, beginning with eight years at the Seminario Evangelico de Puerto Rico (1961-1969).

He has given hundreds of lectures across the world and has also written over one hundred books. His two-volume set, History of Christianity, and his three volumes, History of Christian Thought, have been translated into eight languages.

Since retiring from teaching full-time and ministry, he has dedicated his time to research, writing, and promoting Hispanic theological education. Dr. Gonzalez was involved in the founding of the Asociacion para la Educacion Teologica Hispana (AETH), the Hispanic Theological Initiative (HTI), and the Hispanic Summer Program (HSP). He values mentoring and encouraging Latinas and Latinos and other minority students.

Notes & Quotes:

I think, perhaps the greatest theological discovery of the 20th century is that all theology [is] contextual. And theres no such thing as general theology.

. . . . when I talk to mostly White Christians in this country, . . . [there] is sort of an overpowering sense of guilt. How can we get rid of who we are or being who we are?. . . . that's not the way to go. The way to go is, how can we use who we are for what we all ought to be?

The only way that we have, in order to live into the future wisely, is to know the past. The better we know the past, the more prepared we are for the unexpected eventualities of the future.

Links Mentioned:

Learn about Dr. Gonzalezs former professor, theologian Karl Barth.

Visit our website to sign up for emails. Get new episodes sent straight to your email.

Tell us how much you love Where Ya From? by rating us five stars and leaving us a review.

Check out our VOICES Collection from Our Daily Bread Ministries

Follow Where Ya From?on Instagram.

Follow VOICES on Instagram.

Verses Mentioned:

Story of Peter and Cornelius (Acts 10)

Peters Betrayal (Luke 22:5462)

Exodus & Moses

Jubilee Laws (Exodus 25)

Philippians 3:20

Acts 22

Joseph of Arimathea

John 14:2

Hebrews 11

Acts 28

From Our Daily Bread Ministries in partnership with Christianity Today.
Charles Stanley once took a punch to the face for his church. The longtime pastor and oft-praised preacher, who died on Tuesday at age 90, fought hard to lead in his Southern Baptist congregation, earning him a reputation for faithful obstinacy, a commitment to following Gods will, and a life of devout prayer.

He frequently repeated his life motto, which he learned from his grandfather: Obey God and leave all the consequences to him. That kind of obedience wouldnt come without cost, Stanley said, but God rewards stubborn faith.

Granddad told me, Charles, if God tells you to run your head through a brick wall, you head for the wall, he wrote in his 2016 memoir, and when you get there, God will make a hole for it.

Stanley was the pastor at First Baptist Church Atlanta for 51 years. He started as associate minister in 1969, when the megachurch had 5,000 members, and remained in the pulpit until 2020, when it had about 15,000 members. He also preached daily on the radio and television through In Touch Ministries, which he founded in 1972, and was widely regarded as one of the best preachers of his generation, along with Charles Swindoll and Billy Graham.

Stanleys son, Andy, is also a megachurch pastor in Atlanta and a much-praised preacher. They were the only father-son duo to rank on Lifeway Research or George W. Truett Theological Seminarys lists of most-influential living preachers.

Stanley was a founding member of both the Moral Majority and the Christian Coalition, served as president of the Southern Baptist Convention at a key moment in the struggle between conservatives and moderates, and wrote more than 50 books.

The future preacher was born in 1932 in Dry Fork, Virginia, which he would later say was a town so small it wasnt on the map. His father, also named Charles, died when Stanley was only nine months old.

His mother, Rebecca Hardy Stanley, got a job in a textile mill in the middle of the Great Depression, earning about $9 per week. When she wasnt working, she took her son to a Pentecostal church and taught him to read the Bible and pray.

I can still hear her voice calling my name to God and telling him that she wanted me to follow him in whatever he called me to do, Stanley said.

At age 12, Stanley accepted Jesus as his savior. Two years later, he discerned a call to preach and dedicated himself to ministry.

Rebecca remarried when Stanley was a teenager. Her second husband was alcoholic and abusive. The young Stanley tried to fight his stepfather, once even pulling a knife on the older man. He begged his mother to divorce him, but she remained committed to the union because of her faith.

The experience with violence had an impact on the rest of Stanleys life, he later recalled.

I was very, very uneasy unless I was in charge, he said. I was very, very combative and very, very competitive. You see, into my ministry, I brought the survival spirit. You do or die. You do whatever is necessary to win. It doesnt make any difference what it is.

Stanley attended the University of Richmond on a scholarship his mother prayed for, where he met and married an art student from North Carolina, Anna Margaret Johnson. They were married in 1955.

After graduating from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Stanley took a Baptist church in his new wifes home state, preaching at Fruitland Baptist Church and teaching at Fruitland Baptist Bible Institute (now College). He moved to Fairborn, Ohio; Miami, Florida; and Bartow, Florida, before accepting the call to be an associate minister at the prominent Baptist megachurch in midtown Atlanta in 1969.

The senior pastor resigned two years later, and Stanley was asked to take on the responsibility until a replacement could be found. He applied for the position himself, but the search committee voted 52 against him.

As the search went on, however, Sunday attendance started to swell, giving started to increase, and growing numbers of church members suggested Stanley should take the pastorate. Several deaconssubtly and then not so subtlypressured Stanley to step down.

Stanley refused.

People wanted to get rid of me, he said. They couldnt tell me why. They just said all I preached about was how to get saved, the coming of Jesus, and how to be filled with the Holy Spirit. I just laughed and thought, Well, God, I hope thats true!

Stanley prompted further conflict when he removed some Sunday school teachers over the objections of the Sunday school superintendent who said the pastor did not have the authority to make that decision.

A deacon decried Stanleys naked grab for power, according to reporting in the Atlanta Constitution, and several leaders said they were uneasy about the pastors inordinate passion for political power and extravagant confidence in his understanding the will of God.

In a heated church meeting, one of the church board members let slip a curse word.

Stanley said, Now you need to watch your language.

The board member retorted, No, you need to watch yourself, and then swung his fist, slugging Stanley in the face.

Andy, 13 at the time, was watching from a front pew. He said his father didnt flinch when he was hit. He also didnt retaliate, winning a moral victory and the argument.

I saw my dad turn the other cheek, the younger Stanley later wrote, but he never turned tail and ran.

When the church membership had a three-hour meeting to decide whether to keep Stanley, the majority voted yes. The church then voted to make Stanley the senior pastor.

He waited a week to announce whether or not he would accept the position. Thirty-six of First Baptists 59 deacons resigned.

Stanley brought his same tenacity to the Southern Baptist Convention when he was elected president in 1984. His supporters hoped he would be the one to resolve the fight between the denominations conservatives and moderates. His opponents feared the samewith one seminary president even calling for a holy war against the conservatives, including Stanley, who insisted on more theological uniformity in the denomination, to the detriment of congregational autonomy.

Conservatives said they were stopping a liberal slide, especially at the seminaries and in the denominations public policy organizations. In his first year as president, Stanley supported measures stopping congregations from ordaining women. At the time, there were 13 female pastors in the SBC and more than 220 ordained.

The second year, overcoming opposition to get reelected with 55 percent of the votes, Stanley used his presidential power and skill at parliamentary maneuvers to appoint a slate of conservatives to important Baptist boards.

The greatest fight of Stanleys ministry, however, was the fight to save his marriage and stay in the pulpit after his divorce.

Anna Stanley filed for divorce in 1993, without explanation and using only the couples initials, A. S. and C. S. The news got out anyway and caused an uproar at First Baptist Church. The congregation had never allowed a divorced man to serve in ministry, and Stanley had taught that divorced men were disqualified from ministry.

Stanley announced from the pulpit that the couple was not getting divorced, but was separated and working on their marriage. Anna amended the suit a week later to ask for formal separation instead of divorce and then dropped the case.

She filed again in 1995.

I am dismayed by my husbands refusal to accept the critical state of our marriage, Anna Stanley said in a statement to the Atlanta Constitution. Instead, he has made repeated announcements from the pulpit that progress was being made towards our reconciliation, when in fact, the very opposite was true. I do not choose to contribute to this charade.

There were no allegations of infidelity or immoral behavior. Anna said her husband had long made his priorities clear, and she wasnt one of them.

A number of leaders in the churchwhich now had regular a weekly attendance of about 13,000wanted Stanley to step down, at least temporarily. Others pushed him to resign. One of them was Andy Stanley, who was pastoring a rapidly growing satellite campus and seen as First Baptists heir apparent.

In later years, the younger Stanley would say he only wanted his father to offer to resign, giving the church a chance to choose to keep their beloved pastor. His father, he said, didnt hear anything after the word resign.

Charles reacted harshly and pronounced his son an enemy. Andy left First Baptist, estranged from his father, and went on to found North Point Community Church, a seeker-sensitive megachurch that would grow to more than 40,000 people.

The elder Stanley described this period as the hardest and loneliest time of his life.

The first few times I went to the grocery store at nighttime by myself, home by myself, empty house by myself, that was hard. But I thought, Okay God, this is where I am, Stanley said. My wife walked away. For a pastor, thats a disaster. The church is going to fire you because they always think the worst. Well, my church didnt do that. They said, Well, youve been here for us when we needed you. Now were going to be here for you.

The church voted to keep Stanley, even if the separation continued. When Anna filed for divorce a third time in 2000 and succeeded in ending the marriage, a board member announced that Stanley would continue as senior pastor. The congregation responded to the news with a standing ovation.

While some evangelical leaders condemned Stanleys decision to continue in ministry as a divorced man, saying he was undermining evangelicals moral witness, little actually changed at First Baptist. If anything, Stanley said, his divorce made him a more effective minister.

It was Romans 8:28. God knew what he was doing, Stanley said. People would say, I used to couldnt watch you. What do you know about loneliness and hurt and pain and suffering and loss. Now I can watch you because now I know you know how I feel.

Stanley reconciled with his son through counseling, the two megachurch pastors going to therapy together. The elder Stanley talked about the death of his father, his traumatic relationship with his stepfather, and his need to maintain control. He invited Andy to preach at First Baptist Church in 2007. The younger Stanleys sermon was on a familiar theme: The Cost of Following Christ.

Charles Stanleys preaching was widely praised in his later years, especially for its simplicity, practicality, and effectiveness. He also frequently spoke of the importance of prayer and his own practice of getting down on his knees daily to talk to God.

For me, thats the key, he told Christianity Today. It s the key to everything. Because what you are doing, you re acknowledging God at the momentyou need his help, his insight, his understanding, or his courage, or his faith, whatever it might be.

When asked what advice hed give to his grandchildren, if they went into ministry, or what he might put on his tombstone when he died, Stanley returned to the motto about unflinching faith: Obey God and leave all the consequences to him.

He is survived by his son, Andy; his daughter, Becky Stanley Brodersen; and six grandchildren. Anna Stanley died in 2014.

[ This article is also available in espanol, Portugues, Francais, , , Indonesian, and . ]
Maybe if Gerald Groff had only asked for one Sunday off, that would have been okay. Or he could have just asked for part of Sunday, shifting his schedule to deliver the mail after church, and that would have been fine too.

But Groff was a Sabbatarian, refusing to deliver mail any Sunday or any part of a Sunday. According to solicitor general Elizabeth B. Prelogar, that meant it was unwarranted and inappropriate for him to ask the United States Postal Service to accommodate his ongoing, every-week religious commitment.

Its about the nature of the accommodation, Prelogar told the US Supreme Court during oral arguments in Groff v. Dejoy on Tuesday. Youre just excusing someone from doing part of their job.

The attorney representing the evangelical postal worker protested that wasnt the right way to think about religious accommodations. The mail carrier wasnt shirking. There were just limits on his time, because of his faith.

Its not a get-out-of-work free card, attorney Aaron Streett said. He offered to work Saturdays and non-Sunday holidays.

The court will now have to consider when an employer has to accommodate an employees religious practice. In the Equal Employment Opportunity Act of 1972, Congress said that employers have to be accommodatingas long as that doesnt cause undue hardship to their businesses. A few years later, in Trans World Airlines v. Hardison, the Supreme Court ruled that a hardship meant anything more than a de minimis cost, using the Latin for minimum or trifling.

The nine justices and two lawyers debated that 46-year-old ruling for more than an hour, questioning whether that standard was good and whether the court should even make that call.

For decades, this has been the rule, justice Elena Kagan said. Congress has had that opportunity to change it. Congress has not done so.

Some of the justices indicated that out of respect for precedent, the standard for religious accommodations should be left alone. The attorney representing Groff countered that the court had made a mess of the undue burden standard, and now it is the courts job to clean it up.

The de minimis test makes a mockery of the English language, Streett argued. The court can and should construe undue hardschip according to its plain text to mean significant difficulty or exopense.

The justices did not seem convinced, however, that just clarifying the linguistic formulation of the rule would really solve the problem. One said the court could not provide a full manual dealing with every situation. Another pointed out that hardship would look different for different businesses, depending on the company, its size, and the specific request. Even paying employees an extra $1 an hour to cover for Groff on Sunday shifts could shut the post office down, the justices said.

Whats clear to me after all this discussion, Justice Sonia Sotomayor concluded, is that as much as we might want to provide absolute clarity, there is none we can give, is there? Because its all contextual.

Mail carrier was committed to keeping his Sabbath

When Groff started working as a fill-in mail carrier in Quarryville, Pennsylvania, in 2012, just south of Lancaster, the context didnt require Sunday mail delivery at all. The post office didnt deliver on Sundays. It hadnt for 100 years.

Groff nonetheless let his bosses and coworkers know he was a committed Christian who had seriously considered becoming a missionary. On Sundays, he and his family attended the Lancaster campus of a multisite nondenominational church. The rest of the week, he drove his Honda CR-V from mailbox to mailbox, hitting 500 to 800 a day, depending on the route.

I just really enjoyed the job from the very beginning, Groff told the Associated Press. You get to be out in the countryside, in the fresh air.  Its a beautiful place to live and work and I just really enjoyed it and planned to make a career of it unless God called me back to the mission field somewhere.

Things changed in 2013, when Amazon asked the USPS to deliver its packages on Sundays. The company, which started as an online marketplace for books, had expanded into what one journalist that year named The Everything Store. Amazon earned $274 million in 2013 and was touting the successes of streaming video, an updated e-reader, and the web services that it provided to everyone from Instagram to the CIA.

But the tech giant also kept delivering packages. It fact, it was shipping more than ever to more and more people. CEO Jeff Bezos noted in his 2013 annual report to shareholders that through the Prime membership program, Amazon promised two-day delivery to millions across the country and tens of millions around the world. Amazon was developing bike messenger corps in India, experimenting with drone deliveries in the US, and asking for a special delivery deal with the USPS. The company got what it asked for.

Its a good time to be an Amazon customer, Bezos said. You can now  have packages delivered to your door even on Sundays.

Change didnt come to middle Pennsylvania immediately. Groff continued delivering mail during the week and taking Sundays to honor the Sabbath, and no one asked him to change until 2016. Then the postal hub in Lancaster started making Sunday deliveries. At first it was voluntary, according to court records. But there werent enough carriers, and soon everyone was assigned to Sunday shifts on a rotating basis.

Groff could see there was going to be a problem, so he asked to transfer to a more rural post office. He was reassigned to Holtwood, Pennsylvania, an unincorporated township on the Susquehanna River about 50 miles south of Harrisburg.

It didnt matter. Amazon kept expandingeven to Holtwood. In 2017, the mail carriers there were told they too would have to work on Sundays. Groff made a deal with another postal worker to take all his Sunday shifts, so he could practice his faith. But when the coworker got hurt in mid-December that year, no one else wanted to cover for Groff every single weekend.

According to court documents, Groff formally requested a religious accommodation to allow him not to work on the day he considered the Sabbath.

The head of the post office offered to let Groff start later, so he could go to church in the morning, but Groff said that wouldnt work. He had to rest the entire day on Sunday. The post office head, according to the subsequent lawsuit, also said Groff could take another day as his Sabbath if he wanted. Groff said it had to be Sunday. He wouldnt work on Sunday.

He was scheduled to deliver mail that day anyway. He chose not to show up and filed another request for religious accommodation.

The requests were never formally granted or denied, Groffs lawyer noted in the subsequent lawsuit, but in practice, they were denied.

This caused some turmoil in the post office. One mail carrier quit. Another filed a grievance through his union, complaining of unfair treatment.

A reporter asked Groff outside the Supreme Court on Tuesday what he would say to the coworkers who felt burdened, having to cover for him. They probably wanted to go to church too, or maybe their kids Little League games. How would he respond to them?

What I would say is, I honestly dont know, Groff said.

In January 2018, Groff was suspended for seven days. He was told it was discipline for his misconduct. He still refused to show up on Sundays and was suspended for two full weeks. After that, he resigned and filed suit.

We really cant go back and change what happened to me, Groff told the AP. But people shouldnt have to choose between their job and their faith and a court ruling could help others in that kind of situation.

Religious minorities hit hardest

There are others in the US who struggle to win religious accommodations. And they are not, for the most part, white evangelicals.

Such discrimination disproportionately affects minority communities, lawyers representing Sikhs and Muslims wrote in a friend-of-the-court brief filed with the Supreme Court on behalf of Groffs case. The issues at stake in this case relate directly to the right of practitioners of minority faiths in America to avail themselves of employment opportunities on equal terms.

In one federal case, a company said it couldnt hire a Sikh man because it might make customers uncomfortable. That was considered sufficient, under the current standard.

A Muslim employee wasnt allowed to take a meal break at sunset during Ramadan, to break his fast, because the accommodation could cause other employees to resent him. The company didnt offer any evidence for this assertion, but just argued that the religious accommodation could, hypothetically, impact morale. That was also considered acceptable by federal courts.

In the 1990s, Sears refused to hire Seventh-day Adventist technicians, saying that Saturday was the busiest day for appliance repairs. Religious liberty lawyers pointed out that Sears records showed the busiest day was actually Tuesday. According to the federal court, the factual inaccuracy about the expected hardship of hiring Seventh-day Adventists did not undercut the companys claim there would be some hardship. The court ruled Sears didnt have to hire Sabbatarians.

According to a Jewish legal group, The reported litigated cases are a small tip of a huge iceberg.

The solicitor general argued to the Supreme Court on Tuesday that the few cases cited by religious minorities didnt give the full picture. Lower courts dont always side with employers against religious employees, she said, and while each case is specific and the case law is complicated, authorities have done a good job over the last 46 years drawing the right lines.

Its just incorrect to say that theres not a substantial amount of protection for religious workers, Prelogar said.

Some legal groups filing friend-of-the-court briefs in the case went even further, arguing that any change to the religious accommodation rules would be unfair to businesses. American Atheists urged the justices to respect the rights of the employer to organize an effective and efficient shift schedule to meet its staffing needs.

The group also claimed that any accommodation for religious observances undermined the First Amendment guarantee that Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion.

The Freedom from Religion Foundation warned that if the post office accommodates a mail carrier who doesnt want to work on Sunday, then other businesses will have to accommodate all sorts of unreasonable demands.

This includes religious claims related to employees denigrating LGBTQ+ persons, ingesting controlled substances, proselytizing in the workplace, sharing opinions on abortion, [not] transporting alcohol, and [not] working with someone of the opposite sex, the group wrote. The list is endless and will continue to evolve over time.

The court is not, however, considering requiring accommodation for every religious practice in every workplace. The justices have to decide on the rule for determining when accommodations should be required. Is any hardship more than a minimum or a trifle too much?

Justice Neil Gorsuch, who has been the deciding vote in a number of close cases the past few years, suggested the simplest thing to do might be to reject the de minimis language the court used in 1977, and return to the language of undue hardship.

Some courts have taken this de minimis language and run with it  and thats wrong. And we all agree thats wrong, Gorsuch said. Maybe we could do a good days work and put a period at the end of it by saying that that is not the law.

The Supreme Court is expected to rule before the justices recess for the summer.
Attacks on pro-life groups, churches continue after DOJ arrests pro-life activists: list

Updated at 4:18 p.m. ET on April 18:

As the pro-life movement expresses outrage over the arrest of pro-life activists like Mark Houck, attacks on pro-life pregnancy centers and churches continue in the United States nearly a year after the U.S. Supreme Court determined that the U.S. Constitution does not contain the right to an abortion.

The FBI and the U.S. Department of Justice have faced harsh criticism from the pro-life movement for an early-morning raid on the Pennsylvania home of Mark Houck. The U.S. Attorneys Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania announced on Sept. 23 that it had arrested Houck for violating the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act. The raid took place earlier that morning.

The DOJ contends that Houck is alleged to have twice assaulted a man because he was a volunteer reproductive health care clinic escort. According to the federal agency, the defendant forcefully shoved the clinic escort to the ground on two separate occasions at a Philadelphia Planned Parenthood clinic on Oct. 13, 2021, one of which required him to receive medical attention.

However, a fundraiser set up to raise money for the Houck family insists that the clinic escort was harassing Marks 12-year-old son as they prayed outside the clinic: They walked down the street away from the entrance to the building. The escort followed them, and when he continued yelling at Marks son, Mark pushed him away.

The arrest of Houck for violating the FACE Act, which subjects anyone who intentionally injures, intimidates, or interferes with or attempts to injure, intimidate or interfere with any person seeking to provide reproductive health services to federal charges, prompted backlash from the pro-life community. If convicted, Houck faced up to 11 years in prison.

Following Houcks indictment, Bill Donohue of the Catholic League for Religious and Civil Rights wrote a letter to Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, the leading Republican on the Senate Judiciary Committee. In the letter, Donohue wrote that there seems to be much interest in pursuing alleged wrongdoing by pro-life activists, yet little interest in pursuing alleged wrongdoing by abortion-rights activists.

Donohue referred to previous letters he had written urging the federal government to take stronger action against violence directed at pro-life pregnancy centers and churches following Politicos May 2 publication of a leak of the Supreme Courts draft decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health Organization suggesting that a majority of justices were poised to overturn the Roe v. Wade decision that legalized abortion nationwide.

The vandalism continued after the official Dobbs decision was released on June 24. Nearly nine months after the Dobbs decision and more than 10 months after Politico published the leaked Dobbs draft decision, pro-life pregnancy centers and churches continue to find themselves subject to varying degrees of vandalism as federal law enforcement agencies direct their resources to prosecuting violations of the FACE Act.

Less than two weeks after Houcks Sept. 23 arrest, the DOJ unsealed an indictment against nearly a dozen individuals for violating the FACE Act by blocking the entrance to a Tennessee abortion clinic. Houck was found not guilty in January 2023. Pro-life activists like Donohue see the FACE Act prosecutions and a corresponding lack of action to address the vandalism of churches and pro-life pregnancy centers as evidence of misplaced priorities.

While the perpetrators for most of the instances of pro-abortion vandalism remain at large, a group of pro-abortion activists identifying themselves as Janes Revenge has claimed responsibility for multiple acts of pro-abortion violence. The organization has declared open season on pro-life pregnancy centers after they failed to heed their call to disband within 30 days.

The following page lists the most recent acts of pro-abortion vandalism of churches and pregnancy support centers since Houcks Sept. 23 arrest.

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Prison officials deny retaliating against woman who complained about male 'satanist' watching her shower We need the Body of Christ to act,' advocate says

Are female inmates in California facing physical and legal repercussions  including having parole dates moved  for complaining about a state law that allows men to be housed with women?

Amie Ichikawa, who served five years in a California state prison and now heads the Woman II Woman prison advocacy group, was a panelist for CPs Unmasking Gender Ideology event in March, where she revealed how a new state law could be placing female inmates at increased risk for sexual assault.

While conceding that prison was not wonderful prior to the 2021 implementation of Californias Senate Bill 132, which allowed trans-identified men to request to be transferred to women's prisons, Ichikawa said since then, conditions at Central California Womens Facility (CCWF) in Chowchilla have deteriorated rapidly.

Cathleen Quinn, a female inmate who has been incarcerated for over 20 years, filed a complaint in February 2022 prior to her parole board hearing in which she told commissioners with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) that she feared for her safety following the implementation of SB132.

According to the complaint obtained by The Christian Post, Quinn saw a trans-identified male inmate, who goes by the name Eva Reeves (formerly Michael Contreras) and was convicted of murder in 1982, entering a dayroom restroom area and watching her as she used the facility.

Quinn filed the complaint after seeing Reeves ignore signs that the restroom was being used on two separate occasions, attorneys said.

As one example, Quinn pointed to a situation in which she referred to someones correct pronouns, said Ichikawa, who added that Quinn has been retaliated on ever since.

A separate rules violation report (RVR) filed by another inmate in July 2022 alleged in a second incident that Reeves had walked in on Quinn while she was showering, even though she hung a towel on the outside of the enclosure.

The complaint added, This practice communicates to one's roommates that the shower is being used," which Reeves allegedly "ignored."

The complaint added that the information was provided by an inmate advisory council representative who indicated the roommate in question did not want to be identified for fear [of] reprisal.

"I can't blame that roommate for having that fear."

That complaint also referenced a March 2022 article written by Reeves for an outlet called the San Francisco Bay View National Black Newspaper, in which Reeves  who Ichikawa described as a "self-proclaimed satanist"  acknowledged that consensual sex takes place between trans-identified biologically male inmates and female inmates.

Reeves also said those trans inmates in the women-only prison facility have a penis and get erections.

The article also identified Ichikawa and other activists by name as proponents of so-called hate propaganda.

Haters of [trans-identified men] at the prison complain that some [trans-identified men] there have a penis and get erections, wrote Reeves. Again, the sexualization, the genitalization, the degradation of people into sex organs, is the very same way that these women of hate and evil complain of being regarded as cs.

This is the nature of hate.

Despite the commission initially granting Quinn parole, that decision was subsequently questioned by one of the commissioners, leading to a full board review hearing, according to Ichikawa.

At that hearing, commissioners vacated Quinns parole grant over new findings they cited, including an RVR for false reporting and harassment.

They vacated her parole suitability prior to these write-ups being adjudicated, so she had not yet been heard, explained Ichikawa. There was no guilty or not guilty on anything, and they still vacated her parole suitability.

Quinn was later found not guilty of harassment and the false reporting was dropped, said Ichikawa, who believes Quinns faith was a factor in the charges.

I dont think its any coincidence that shes a Christian conservative either, Ichikawa said. Shes been too committed to standing firm on her values and shes not bending, so I really feel like shes the lynchpin for the whole game plan here.

In response, CDCR spokesperson Terri Hardy told CP the agency is unaware of any incarcerated individuals receiving disciplinary action as a result of misgendering another person.

Hardy cited California Code Title 15, Section 3004, which, said Hardy, outlines the expectation that incarcerated people and parolees are to treat employees and others respectfully, impartially and fairly and will not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, nationality, sex, political belief, age, or physical or mental handicap.

The code does not make reference to gender identity as one of the protected classes.

Ichikawa told CP that she believes CDCRs statement is not very accurate of whats happening inside CCWF, which is said to be the largest womens prison facility in the world.

Does this apply to incarcerated women? Because thats not how I would describe the environment in there, she said.

Even if more inmates were to file complaints, Ichikawa added, the official paperwork wouldnt show any misgendering violation because following the incident at Chowchilla and a handful of others, inmates arent even filing any complaints because theyre so afraid of this retaliatory kind of action."

According to state estimates, there are more than 1,700 inmates in the California state prison system who identified as transgender, non-binary and intersex as of March of this year.

Under SB132, if an inmate who is housed with a trans-identified inmate raises concerns for their health or safety at any time, their housing and placement is to be reassessed, according to CDCR.

While CDCR may deny a housing request based on "management or security concerns," the agency "must give serious consideration to the perceptions of health and safety of the person making the request, and under no circumstances can the denial be based on any discriminatory reason, including anatomy, physical characteristics, and sexual orientation," according to a public records request.

CDCR said as of March 13, there have been six inmates who have "voluntarily transferred back to a male institution" after being transferred to a women's facility under SB132.

Quinns 2022 complaint was later echoed by the Womens Liberation Front (WOLF), which, along with Ichikawa, sued CDCR over allegations from seven different women inside CCWF that at least one woman and possibly more were impregnated after being housed with a male inmate following SB132.

Under the bill  known as the The Transgender Respect, Agency and Dignity Act  male inmates can transfer to womens facilities even if they do not claim to have a female gender identity, meaning those who identify as non-binary or gender-fluid are also eligible.

Inmates who are biologically male and transferred into womens prisons are not required to take hormones or have surgery, according to WOLF.

It appears CDCR was aware of the potential harm that could result from SB132s implementation: the states prison administration began handing out contraceptives to female inmates in July 2021, which WOLF called a tacit admission that California officials understood the threat SB132 posed to women.

While Ichikawa is no longer a party to the WOLF suit, she warned that the ACLU has tried to intervene on behalf of male inmates who want to be housed with women.

This is serious, she said. They have a strong defense, they have very high-powered lawyers and its extremely intimidating, so more than anything, we really need prayer.

She urged Christian congregations to start filing FOIA requests, learn more about the chaplain teams in state prisons, and even work toward sending a team into these facilities to see the plight of these women firsthand.

Since SB132, Ichikawa said she has personally heard from some 200 women who need to talk to someone, so she provided her personal cell phone number for them to contact.

And while she and her formerly incarcerated partners remain dedicated to the cause, shes calling on Christians and non-believers alike to get involved.

This is a huge injustice, because no matter what these women have done, under no circumstances should they be further subjected to this kind of cruel and unusual, very intentional punishment and erasure, she said.

We need the Body of Christ to act as if part of their own body is in prison because it is, and it is being fiercely persecuted.
Charles Stanley, Baptist pastor and televangelist, dies at 90

Charles Frazier Stanley, the popular televangelist preacher, author and founder of In Touch Ministries who once served as president of the Southern Baptist Convention, died at age 90 on Tuesday morning.

His death was confirmed in a statement Tuesday posted to Instagram by In Touch Ministries.

Dr. Stanley lived a faithful life of obedience, dedicated to teaching others how to have an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ. Now he is receiving the joy of his soul  seeing his Savior face-to-face, read the statement.

Please join us in praying for the entire Stanley family. Updates regarding memorial arrangements will be posted here, at intouch.org, and at charlesstanley.com.

Born Sept. 25, 1932, in Dry Fork, Pittsylvania County, Virginia, Stanley decided to pursue a spiritual life in part because of the loss of his father at an early age.

Stanley earned a bachelor of arts degree from the University of Richmond, a bachelor of divinity degree at Southwestern Theological Seminary, and a master of theology and doctor of theology at Luther Rice Seminary.

In 1969, Stanley joined the staff at First Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia, and became senior pastor in 1971, holding the position until his retirement in September 2020.

In 1972, Stanley began a local Atlanta television program called The Chapel Hour, which later became "In Touch with Dr. Charles Stanley."

Our mission is to lead people worldwide into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and to strengthen the local church, noted In Touch Ministries Facebook page.

Our programs are seen and heard around the world on more than 2,600 radio and television outlets in more than 50 languages.

For his extensive broadcast work, the National Religious Broadcasters inducted Stanley into its Hall of Fame in 2018 and gave him the NRB Chairmans Award in March 2020.

During the 1980s, Stanley served two one-year terms as president of the Southern Baptist Convention, the largest Protestant denomination in the United States.

Stanley was part of the SBCs Conservative Resurgence, a movement that led to a rejection of the progressive theological trends that dominated other Protestant churches in the United States.

In 2010, Stanley was honored by his alma mater Southwestern as a distinguished alumnus at an annual luncheon, with Stanley telling those gathered to "do what God tells you to do next."

"I have one goal: Get the truth of the Gospel to as many people as possible, as quickly as possible, as simply as possible, in the power of the Holy Spirit and to the glory of God," said Stanley.

Stanley wrote several Christian devotional works, including A Man's Touch, Handle With Prayer, Into His Presence, Waiting on God: Strength for Today and Hope for Tomorrow, Prayer: The Ultimate Conversation, and When the Enemy Strikes: The Keys to Winning Your Spiritual Battles.

In 1958, Stanley married Anna Stanley and the couple had two children, Andy and Becky, before divorcing in 2000 after several failed reconciliation attempts.

Andy and Charles Stanley had a public falling out over the issue that lasted several years. At the same time, other pastors believed that Charles Stanley should have resigned from his church position because of the divorce.

For his part, Andy Stanley went on to found his own high-profile ministry, an influential megachurch called North Point Community Church based in Alpharetta, Georgia.

In September 2020, less than two weeks before his 88th birthday, Charles Stanley announced that he was stepping down as senior pastor of First Baptist Church Atlanta, taking the role of pastor emeritus.

I have many wonderful memories. But as much as I love being your pastor, I know in my heart this season has come to an end, said Stanley in his announcement.

Stanley was honored in October 2021 by Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary when they created an endowed chair in his honor supported through a donor agreement between SWBTS and the In Touch Foundation, the charitable arm of Stanleys In Touch Ministries.

Known as the Charles F. Stanley Chair for the Advancement of Global Christianity, the position was part of the Roy J. Fish School of Evangelism and Missions at SWBTS.

SWBTS President Adam Greenway told The Christian Post in an interview that he believed Stanley may be one of our most prominent visible alumni in the history of Southwestern Seminary.

He and his ministry were looking for a way to honor his legacy, certainty a worthy legacy of honoring, and they saw that Southwestern Seminary was a fitting institution to partner with to do something that would be significant in terms of their investment, explained Greenway.

And significant in terms of an opportunity to have Dr. Stanleys name and his commitment to global missions and evangelism honored in perpetuity.

In October 2022, Stanley was again honored with an endowed faculty chair, this time being at Truett McConnell University, a Baptist liberal arts school in Cleveland, Georgia.

Anthony George, a trustee at TMU who succeeded Stanley as senior pastor of First Baptist Church of Atlanta in 2020, expressed his support for the decision.

This gift and the naming of this Chair of Theology could not have honored anyone more fitting, stated George. His ministry has modeled the bold proclamation of Scripture so visibly, so practically, so consistently, and so globally, and to this day stands on a rock-solid theological foundation.
Franklin Graham defends Elon Musk's call to jail parents who sterilize kids 'Young people are suffering the lifelong consequences of drugs that maim body, mind and spirit. ... This madness must stop.'

The Rev. Franklin Graham came to the defense of Twitter CEO Elon Musk who suggested that parents who support sterilizing their children should be jailed. In a response on social media, Graham said it's "shameful" and "evil" for adults to push trans ideology on youth suffering from confusion about their sex.

Any parent or doctor who sterilizes a child before they are a consenting adult should go to prison for life, Musk wrote on Twitter Friday in response to a tweet reacting to an MSNBC article claiming that [Florida Gov.] Ron DeSantis desperation for power is destroying an entire state because he won't allow parents to change [the] sex for your child.

Any parent or doctor who sterilizes a child before they are a consenting adult should go to prison for life  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) April 14, 2023

Graham, the CEO of Samaritans Purse and the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, who doesn't shy away from speaking out on issues pertaining to religious freedom and human rights, jumped to Musks defense in a Facebook post on Monday:

Elon Musk spoke out to make a point about the bizarre and dangerous transgender medical treatments being performed on minors, and I appreciate that he isnt afraid to call it like it is. Its shameful that any adult would be part of feeding this confusion and pushing children over a cliff that is built on lies from the pit of hell. Some parents, politicians, and so-called professionals are guilty of a masquerade of evil they are falsely calling healthcare. Children and young people are suffering the lifelong consequences of drugs that maim body, mind and spirit. God will judge our nation. This madness must stop.

Concerns about the harms of genital mutilation  chemical and surgical castration  come as more than a dozen states have passed laws banning the disfiguring procedures for individuals who are younger than 18. These states include: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Mississippi, Missouri, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah and West Virginia.

While Texas has not implemented a legislative ban, the states Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton and Commissioner of Family and Protective Services Jaime Masters have classified sex change surgeries as a form of child abuse. Efforts to punish doctors who perform these procedures on minors and label them as child abuse come in response to concerns about their long-term impacts that cannot be reversed.

The American College of Pediatricians has identified some of the potential side effects of puberty blockers, frequently prescribed to youth with gender dysphoria, as osteoporosis, mood disorders, seizures, cognitive impairment and, when combined with cross-sex hormones, sterility. The American College of Pediatricians has listed some of the long-term impacts of cross-sex hormones prescribed to trans-identified youth as an increased risk of heart attacks, stroke, diabetes, blood clots and cancers across their lifespan.

These procedures involve the castration of boys and the genital mutilation of girls, as well as the removal of skin and tissue from a girl's forearm or thigh to create a fake, flaccid penis that doesn't function. Girls are also left with scars from an unnecessary double mastectomy or hysterectomy that will last a lifetime.

DeSantis himself has shared images documenting the scars left behind after a doctor performs a double mastectomy and skim is removed from a girl's forearm. Chloe Cole, a prominent detransitioner who experienced gender dysphoria as a child, has since shed her temporary discomfort with her biological sex and announced her intention to sue the medical professionals who treated her gender dysphoria by encouraging her to undergo unnecessary body mutilating surgeries late last year.

In the notice of the intent to sue, Cole described how, despite assurances from her medical providers that the distress she experienced because of her gender dysphoria would resolve as she transitioned, she discovered that her stress always came back worse following an initial burst of relief that followed each phase of transition. She specifically noted that the double mastectomy she received at the age of 15 caused her mental health to deteriorate and she contemplated suicide as a result.

Public opinion polling shows that a majority of Americans support efforts to ban sex change procedures for minors. A survey conducted by YouGov in conjunction with The Economist earlier this month found that 39% of respondents strongly approve of state laws banning parents from providing their children with puberty blockers, while an additional 14% approve of such measures.
Global Methodist Church recognizes university as a recommended educational institution

The recently launched Global Methodist Church has officially endorsed a Christian academic institution in Oklahoma, saying that deacon and elder candidates living outside the United States and Western Europe can complete their educational requirements for ordination there.

The GMC has announced that it is classifying Mid-America Christian University of Oklahoma City as a "recommended educational institution" for the nascent denomination launched last year amid the schism over homosexuality within the United Methodist Church.

GMC spokesperson Rev. Keith Boyette directed The Christian Post to an April 12 announcement that MACU is now considered a school in which "persons can complete courses to satisfy the educational requirements for ordination as a deacon or elder in the Global Methodist Church provided that the person resides outside the United States and western Europe."

"Persons pursuing ordination in the GM Church, who reside outside the United States and western Europe, may complete their educational requirements for ordination in a bachelors degree program in ministry," the announcement reads. "MACU courses are offered in both residential and virtual formats."

The decision came at a meeting of GMC leadership last month.

"It is the first educational institution recommended by the GM Church for persons pursuing ordination who reside outside the United States and western Europe," stated the GMC.

"Undergraduate courses offered by MACU do not currently satisfy the GM Church educational requirements for ordination for persons residing in the United States or western Europe."

The GMC "looks forward to adding additional educational institutions to its recommended list." Boyette told CP that there are "five additional schools who have made submission or are in the process of making submissions."

Other schools listed by the GMC as recommended educational institutions include Asbury Theological Seminary, Ashland Theological Seminary, Beeson Divinity School based at Samford University, Truett Theological Seminary based at Baylor University, United Theological Seminary and Wesley Biblical Seminary.

MACU President Phil Greenwald told CP that his university is "honored by the Global Methodist Church's approval of this partnership and looks forward to collaborating on training ministry leaders for service in the church and in the world."

Greenwald said MACU is an endorsed agency of the Church of God (Anderson, Indiana), a Christian fellowship that traces its roots to the same Wesleyan holiness movement that Methodism is derived from.

"We are excited to support this new movement, which is theologically aligned with the movement of the Church of God, Anderson," said Greenwald.

"While this partnership is directly related to ordination, we also want to welcome all students from Global Methodist churches to consider MACU for their undergraduate or graduate studies."

The GMC was launched in May 2022 after the UMC delayed its General Conference for a third time to 2024 as delegates were slated to negotiate a denominational split over disagreements over the denomination's stance on homosexuality and the ordination of LGBT clergy.

The GMC serves as a theologically conservative alternative to the UMC. Since its inception, over 1,100 UMC congregations have voted to join the GMC. The GMC has welcomed over 1,200 clergy members from countries such as Angola, Bulgaria, the Democratic Republic of Congo, England, Panama, the Philippines, Slovakia and the United States.

"And hundreds of additional clergy and local churches are on the cusp of completing the process of disaffiliation from The United Methodist Church (UM Church) in order to align with the GM Church," a Jan. 18 update states. "Also, more than 50 new churches have been launched globally with more being added each month. And the truth is, many more would have already joined the GM Church, or be well on the way to doing so, were it not for the obstacles UM Church bishops and conferences have placed in their way."

According to the GMC's website, the Global Methodist Church name is derived from the fact that "those called to this new denomination are from many countries, speak many languages, and yet share one faith."

"In that spirit, faithful Methodists have been praying and working to discern God's will for a new church rooted in Scripture and the historic and life-giving teachings of the Christian faith," the GMC website states.
More Christians turning to predatory payday loans that some find helpful: study

While more than 75% of self-identified Christians in 27 states with no meaningful regulation of payday loans believe it's a sin to lend money in a way that harms the borrower financially, more than a third of them say they have obtained such loans, which an increasing number of borrowers also find helpful, a new Lifeway research study shows.

While payday loans are usually presented as quick help for an unexpected emergency, according to the National Association of Consumer Advocates, these short-term, high-interest loans, usually for small amounts ($500 or less), that are due your next pay day are typically predatory.

In their online survey of 1,000 Americans in 27 states conducted Feb. 22-27, and sponsored by Faith for Just Lending, Lifeway research found that more than 3 in 4 see lending as harmful to borrowers and sinful, even though 1 in 3 respondents have taken a payday loan before. And even though a growing share of Christians see these predatory loans as helpful, most support government and church intervention in an industry predicted to grow to $42.6 billion globally by 2028.

The proliferation of retail payday lending establishments has increased the first-hand knowledge many Christians have of these financial institutions, Scott McConnell, executive director of Lifeway Research, said in a statement. The majority of Christians in states with few regulations on payday lending want more regulations that protect borrowers.

Among the states surveyed in the study are: Alabama, Alaska, California, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, Ohio, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

The Department of Financial Services in New York state, where payday loans are illegal, notes that payday loans are designed to trap borrowers in debt.

Due to the short term, most borrowers cannot afford to both repay the loan and pay their other important expenses, the agency explains while highlighting several other reasons payday loans are illegal in the state, such as annual percentage rates of 400% or higher.

Despite warnings from states like New York, however, when asked to choose which words apply to payday loans, some 37% of respondents said payday loans are helpful, more than doubling the share of those who held this sentiment in 2016 when a similar survey was done. Only 16% of respondents described payday loans as helpful at that time.

Short-term financing is a real need for many Americans, so you expect to see a growing number of customers who appreciate the payday lending service. Yet, many describe payday loans with language that sounds more like warnings than endorsements, McConnell said.

Even though Christians in states most vulnerable to the predation of payday lenders would love their churches to offer some kind of help with the lending practice, McConnell says most churches have said nothing.

Most churches are silent on payday loans at times when Christians desire advice and emergency help, he explained.

Faith for Just Lending is a coalition of faith-based institutions working to end predatory payday lending, is not.

The Faith for Just Lending steering committee includes Catholic Charities USA, Center for Public Justice, Cooperative Baptist Fellowship, Ecumenical Poverty Initiative, Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention, Faith in Action (formerly PICO National Network), National Association of Evangelicals, National Baptist Convention USA, National Latino Evangelical Coalition, The Episcopal Church, United Church of Christ, and United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
Mother says Alvin Bragg's office treated her family 'like garbage' after son's murder

The mother of a homicide victim said Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg's office treated her and her family like garbage as they sought justice for her veteran son's murder.

Madeline Brame, who serves as chairwoman of the Victims Rights Reform Council, testified before the House Judiciary Committee Field Hearing on Monday. She explained that her son, U.S. Army Sgt. Hason Correa, was kicked, punched, stomped and stabbed nine times by four individuals he did not know nor had he done them any harm. The attack, which took place in Harlem in 2018, led to Correas death.

All four of these individuals were apprehended and all four charged with first-degree gang assault and second-degree murder, she recalled. When Alvin Bragg came into office, he was handed a strong, trial-ready murder case and gang assault case against all four of these individuals, she recalled.

Brame added, As soon as he took office, the case immediately began to unravel. He completely dismissed gang assault and murder indictments against two of the defendants clearly on video participating in the brutal, savage slaughter of my son.

The distraught mother detailed how Bragg  the prosecutor who indicted former President Donald Trump  dropped the charges against one of the perpetrators caught on video murdering her soon, Mary Saunders, and recharged her with assault with a shoe and sentenced her to one year time served. She expressed outrage that this savage is walking the streets of Harlem like she didnt just participate in the brutal slaughter of another human being.

If thats not a threat to public safety, I dont know what is, Brame proclaimed. Shes capable at any moment of snapping and attacking someone and holding them while someone else plunges a butcher knife into their body nine times and another person 12 times.

Another perpetrator, Travis Stewart, had his charges reduced to attempted gang assault and received a sentence of seven years behind bars. She warned that Stewart will be out in the next 18 months.

This is the type of criminal element that we have walking the streets of New York City on a daily basis. All types of criminal elements free to do what they want, when they want, however they want, to whomever they want with no consequences, no deterrence, Brame continued.

In addition to taking issue with Braggs handling of crime in New York City, she maintained that his office totally disrespected her and her family. We were treated like garbage, she lamented.

After detailing how billions of our hard-earned tax dollars are going to fund these organizations that are doing absolutely nothing to deter this crime, Brame suggested that not another dime of our federal tax dollars [should] be pumped into these organizations until they can produce some measurable outcomes of effectiveness of what theyre doing with our tax dollars to protect the public.

Brame specifically singled out the Manhattan District Attorneys Office: If hes receiving one penny of federal dollars, you need to pull that funding until he starts doing his damn job and prosecuting crime.

Brame was one of several witnesses who testified as part of the House Judiciary Committees hearing titled Victims of Violent Crime in Manhattan, which took place in New York City Monday. The purpose of the hearing was to examine how Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Braggs pro-crime, anti-victim policies have led to an increase in violent crime and a dangerous community for New York City residents.

Bragg has become the subject of national attention following a Manhattan grand jurys indictment of Trump on a series of charges related to falsifying business records. Conservatives have slammed the indictment as politically motivated, noting Trumps status as the frontrunner in the polls for the Republican nomination for president in the 2024 presidential election.

Additionally, as indicated by the Republican-controlled House Judiciary Committees decision to hold a hearing on the matter, criticism of Bragg has focused on his approach to addressing violent crime. Since taking office in early 2022, Bragg has declined to prosecute certain violent felonies and implemented bail reform measures that have abolished pre-trial incarceration for most people arrested for crimes. Braggs critics have credited these measures with a rise in violent crime in New York City.

Brames organization, the Victims Rights Reform Council, was founded in honor of her son. Its website notes that Brame frequently stands in front of the New York City Courthouse with her signs, and bullhorn demanding justice for the brutal crime that savagely took her son. The Victims Rights Reform Council believes that any and all victims of crime deserve a voice, and a seat at the table with all local and State leaders as they move to create additional policies that severely impact the victims of crime and their loved ones.

Additionally, the organization subscribes to the idea that Public Safety should never be POLITICAL. Brame echoed this point of view in her remarks Monday, asserting that We dont give a damn about your politics.

We dont care. It could be the man from the moon whos running for president. Okay? As long as whoevers in there stands for law and order and is going to return some civility and sanity to our city, she concluded.
84-year-old white man charged with shooting black teen who rang doorbell by mistake Biden offers prayers for Ralph Yarl moments before announcement of charges against Andrew Lester

Andrew D. Lester, a white 84-year-old Kansas City, Missouri, homeowner who shot Ralph Yarl, a black 16-year-old twice after he mistakenly rang his doorbell last Thursday, has been charged with assault in the first degree and armed criminal action which could send him to prison for the rest of his life.

At a press conference Monday, Clay County prosecutor, Zachary Thompson, identified Lester after days of public outcry and said, There was a racial component to the case. Assault in the first degree is a class-A felony that could lead to a sentence of up to life in prison if convicted while armed criminal action carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison according to The New York Times.

A probable cause statement cited by The Norman Transcript said Yarl, who had mistakenly rang Lesters doorbell thinking he was at the correct house to pick up his twin younger brothers just before 10 p.m. Thursday night, was shot by Lester in the forehead and right forearm.

Further details from the probable cause affidavit cited by KMBC, said when officers arrived on the scene, the teenager was in front of a home near to where he was shot. When officers visited Lesters house, they noticed that his front storm glass was shattered, and he was standing alone inside.

A witness told police that on the night of the shooting, they "thought it was odd for their elderly neighbor to have a visitor this late at night" when Yarls vehicle pulled up in his driveway then heard "two to three gunshots" from Lester's home a short time later.

The shots were then followed by screams from Yarl indicating that he had been shot.

Lester told police that he just shot twice within seconds of opening his door. He said nothing to the teenager because he was "scared to death" because of Yarl's size and his age.

He said shooting the teenager was "the last thing he wanted to do" but he thought he was protecting himself.

Yarl told investigators that he heard the man who lived at the residence say, "Don't come around here after he was shot.

He said he also went to multiple homes begging for help and asking people to call the police.

Yarl was released from the hospital Sunday and has since been recovering at home Politico reported.

Ben Crump and Lee Merritt, who are attorneys for Yarls family, said the charges against Lester were officially announced just moments after the teenager and his family received a call from President Joe Biden who offered his prayers for Ralphs health and for justice.

Moments after the family got off the phone with President Biden, who offered his prayers for Ralphs health and for justice, we learned that the prosecutor will be charging the man who is responsible for the deplorable shooting of this innocent boy, the attorneys said in a statement to The Christian Post. Gun violence against unarmed Black individuals must stop. Our children should feel safe, not as though they are being hunted. While this is certainly a step in the right direction, we will continue to fight for Ralph while he works towards a full recovery.

Vice President Kamala Harris also offered prayers.

Doug and I are praying for Ralph Yarl and his family as he fights for his life, she tweeted Monday evening. Let's be clear: No child should ever live in fear of being shot for ringing the wrong doorbell. Every child deserves to be safe. Thats the America we are fighting for.
Charles Stanley honored by Baptist college with endowed faculty chair of theology

A Georgia-based Christian university has received a $3 million gift to endow a faculty chair and launch a Global Impact Center in honor of pastor and author Charles Stanley.

Truett McConnell University, a Baptist liberal arts school in Cleveland, Georgia, announced last week the creation of the Dr. Charles F. Stanley Chair of Theology.

Anthony George, an outgoing trustee at TMU who succeeded Stanley as senior pastor of First Baptist Church of Atlanta in 2020, expressed his support for the decision.

Stanleys preaching has been marked by our Baptist doctrinal trademarks such as Biblical infallibility, Trinitarian theology, the substitutionary atonement, the exclusivity of Christ, and the priesthood and eternal security of the believer, stated George.

This gift and the naming of this Chair of Theology could not have honored anyone more fitting. His ministry has modeled the bold proclamation of Scripture so visibly, so practically, so consistently, and so globally, and to this day stands on a rock-solid theological foundation.

The first professor to occupy the chair will be Mael Disseau, dean of the Hubmaier School of Theology and Missions. He is an associate professor of Biblical and Theological Studies.

It is also very appropriate that this gift is given to honor Dr. Stanley, who has spent his life teaching the Word of God and fighting for the Word of God and its primacy, stated Disseau.

I consider it a great honor to be asked to be the inaugural occupant of the Dr. Charles F. Stanley Chair of Theology. Dr. Stanleys life has demonstrated a passion for the Word of God and the Great Commission.

The $3 million gift to TMU will also fund the Dr. Charles F. Stanley Global Impact Center in Miller Hall.

TMU is not the first school to bestow such an honor on Stanley. The Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary Board of Trustees voted last October to approve the creation of the Charles F. Stanley Chair for the Advancement of Global Christianity, part of their Roy J. Fish School of Evangelism and Missions.

Adam Greenway, the former president of the Fort Worth, Texas-based SWBTS, told The Christian Post in an interview last year that he believes Stanley may be one of our most prominent visible alumni in the history of Southwestern Seminary.

He and his ministry were looking for a way to honor his legacy, certainty a worthy legacy of honoring, and they saw that Southwestern Seminary was a fitting institution to partner with to do something that would be significant in terms of their investment, said Greenway.

The proceeds of an endowed chair support the salary of a professor who will be named to the chair, and the more of those endowed chairs a seminary has, the more likely it is it will be able to sustain its academic mission long into the future.

Born Sept. 25, 1932, in Virginia, Stanley became the lead pastor of First Baptist Atlanta in 1971. He remained in the position for nearly 50 years until he announced his retirement in 2020.

Stanley is well-known for founding and leading In Touch Ministries, which includes the long-running television program In Touch with Dr. Charles Stanley, as well as a widely heard radio broadcast.

During the 1980s, Stanley was part of the Southern Baptist Conventions Conservative Resurgence movement and served two one-year terms as president of the denomination.
Charles Stanley honored by alma mater Southwestern Seminary with chair in evangelism school

Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary has voted to honor one of its most visible alumni, notable author and pastor Charles Stanley, with an endowed chair in their evangelism school.

Last week, the SWBTS Board of Trustees voted to approve the creation of the Charles F. Stanley Chair for the Advancement of Global Christianity, which will be part of the Roy J. Fish School of Evangelism and Missions.

The establishment of the chair was supported through a donor agreement between SWBTS and the In Touch Foundation, the charitable arm of Stanleys In Touch Ministries.

SWBTS President Adam Greenway told The Christian Post in an interview Tuesday that he believed Stanley may be one of our most prominent visible alumni in the history of Southwestern Seminary.

He and his ministry were looking for a way to honor his legacy, certainty a worthy legacy of honoring, and they saw that Southwestern Seminary was a fitting institution to partner with to do something that would be significant in terms of their investment, explained Greenway.

And significant in terms of an opportunity to have Dr. Stanleys name and his commitment to global missions and evangelism honored in perpetuity.

The chair honoring Stanley is the first endowed chair at Southwestern to be fully funded at $2 million, which Greenway labeled a significant accomplishment that shows an academic commitment.

We all know that one of the significant challenges is how to pay for the costs of seminary education today, he continued. The proceeds of an endowed chair support the salary of a professor who will be named to the chair, and the more of those endowed chairs a seminary has, the more likely it is it will be able to sustain its academic mission long into the future.

In a statement included in the official seminary announcement, Stanley said that he is honored to think of all the pastors, professors, and even founders of seminaries, who will be trained through the World Christian Studies program at Southwestern Seminary.

When I was a young man just starting out, a pastor helped me so I could receive a scholarship and get an education. It is a joy to think In Touch is partnering with Southwestern to do that for young men and women all over the world, Stanley stated.

In September of last year, Stanley announced that he was stepping down as senior pastor at First Baptist Church Atlanta, Georgia, a position that he had held for nearly 50 years.

A former president of the Southern Baptist Convention, Stanley became pastor emeritus of the congregation. He was officially replaced by Anthony George, who had assisted Stanley as the churchs associate pastor since 2012.
Charles Stanley stepping down as senior pastor of First Baptist Atlanta

After nearly 50 years of serving as senior pastor at First Baptist Church Atlanta, Charles Stanley announced during a pre-recorded streaming service on Sunday that he is stepping down. The megachurch said Stanley will be replaced by Dr. Anthony George.

Earlier this month, I informed the board that I felt the time had come for me to step down as senior pastor, Stanley said. I have many wonderful memories. But as much as I love being your pastor, I know in my heart this season has come to an end.

Stanley, a former president of the Southern Baptist Convention and who will turn 88 later this month, will become pastor emeritus. To say I didnt rush this decision would certainly be an understatement, he said.

Stanley, whos been with First Baptist since 1969, said hes not retiring and will remain active with In Touch Ministries, which was founded in 1992.

The church said in a statement on its Facebook page, We are forever indebted to this man of Godnot only our faithful pastor, but also a pastor to millions around the world.

George, who assisted Stanley as the churchs associate pastor since 2012, stated, Thank you for being strong and of good courage through every battle that youve had to fight, through every trial youve had to overcome.

You have stood tall and confident through all these years while at the same time remaining dependent and prayerful before an almighty God. Because you were a yielded vessel the Gospel of Jesus Christ, through you, has blanketed this globe. Truly, God has been with you wheresoever you have gone.

In his message, Stanley said he was so grateful for George. Thanks to Anthonys leadership and his love for you and his love for God. I have no doubt that there are many great days ahead for the First Baptist Church of Atlanta. My hope is that the greatest days are still ahead.

A former senior pastor of Aloma Church in Winter Park, Florida, for one and a half decades, George said he plans to do some serious strategic planning for updating our churchs organizational structure and ministry model.

Stanley had to be hospitalized twice last year, George recalled, according to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

After coming home from the hospital each of those times, he had me over to his house to tell me it was time for him to step down, George said. As he recovered and regained his strength following each of those conversations, he let me know that he had changed his mind and planned on remaining as senior pastor. Then at the beginning of this year, he had me over to discuss it, only to back down again and say that the timing wasnt right. So even with the back and forth, I knew it was weighing heavily on his mind. And for the record, I have always discouraged him from stepping down.

David P. Gushee, a professor at Mercer University and director of the Center for Theology and Public Life, called Stanley one of the giants of conservative Southern Baptist life for the last generation or more, according to AJC. He said Stanleys commitment to staying in one place and serving as a faithful pastor in that one community is just something you dont see anymore.
Craig Groeschel lists 5 red flags Christians are dating the wrong person

During his sermon Sunday, megachurch Pastor Craig Groeschel of the multi-campus Life.Church shared five "red flags" Christians should watch out for when dating.

The first red flag, the pastor said, is when the person a Christian is dating is not consistently pursuing Jesus.

Groeschel clarified that this doesn't mean they need to be "perfect," but that they are "on a journey to get to know Jesus and be conformed to His image."

"A lot of people here are kind of cultural Christians. And just because someone tells you, 'I guess I'm a Christian, and I go to church on Christmas and Easter,' doesn't mean that they're a committed follower of Jesus," he warned.

Groeschel said when dating someone who may or may not be a practicing believer, a Christian should pay attention to where their main focus lies.

"If you meet someone, and you're getting to know them, and you spend some time in intimate conversation with them if you don't hear about Jesus, or you don't hear about their faith, or you don't hear about God, or you don't hear about their involvement in the Church, or you don't hear about their ministry within the first hour of talking to them, I would suggest to you that is actually a red flag," Groeschel said.

"And that seems incredibly extreme. ... But, you have to remember that people talk about first what they value most.  So, if you have to ask, 'hey, what are your spiritual beliefs? Are you a Christian? Do you ever attend church anywhere?' if you have to ask that after an extended conversation, chances are this person is not a committed follower of Jesus."

Groeschel cited 2 Corinthians 6:14, which says, "do not be yoked together with unbelievers." He rejected the idea that such standards are limiting.

"God is not limiting you. He's loving you. He's protecting you. He wants you to share your most treasured gift with someone else who believes that Jesus is their most treasured gift," Groeschel said.

When a Christian dates someone who is not passionate about God, Groeschel said, "it's going to be so much more difficult for him or her to love you in the way that God intended."

"I promise you, what you believe spiritually will impact every area of your life more than anything else about your life," Groeschel preached.

"Who are your friends and how do you treat people, and how do you forgive those who hurt you? And what do you do with temptation? And is divorce an option in your relationship? Or is that off the table because you have a different spiritual foundation? What do you stand for? What do you stand against? What is your divine purpose in life? Why do you exist? If you have a different spiritual foundation, How can you walk in the same direction when you have different values?"

Groeschel said the second red flag to look out for is if a believer's devout Christian family, friends and other loved ones disapprove of their dating relationship.

"When those around you that you really trust, who have a good spiritual foundation and have your best interests at heart, when they don't like the person you're with, and all of them don't like the person you're with, listen," Groeschel said. "Proverbs 27:9 says this: 'the heartfelt counsel of a friend is as sweet as perfume.' And in this instance, you want to listen to those who love you."

A third red flag is if people aren't experiencing "healthy conflict" with the person they're dating, according to Groeschel.

"This is not saying that you won't fight. You will fight with the person you're dating, and you will fight with the person you're married to.  It's not if you fight, but it's how you fight that really, really matters," Groeschel said.

"Healthy couples tend to fight fair. Unhealthy couples fight dirty. And we could say that healthy couples fight for resolution: 'we want things to work out.' And unhealthy couples fight for victory: 'I want to win. I want to be right. And you're wrong.'"

Red flag No. 4, Groeschel said, is if someone is "consistently worried" that they cannot trust the person they are dating.

"Maybe he's always sliding up into girls' DMs, or she's always snapping old boyfriends, or he's liking every bikini pic of everybody that's not you ..., or he's looking at the waitresses whenever he goes to a place. There may be a reason. And if there's a reason, you need to pay attention to that. That is a red flag," Groeschel said.

"Or it could be that you're the problem. It could be that you're overly possessive or too insecure. And you're looking for reasons to trust when they're not really there."

The final and "most important" red flag, Groeschel said, is if a Christian is not growing spiritually alongside the person they are dating.

"It's a warning when the person you're dating is leading you away from Jesus instead of closer to Jesus. It's a red flag when you're spending time with someone, and spiritually, you're not as vibrant as you were before you started spending time with that person," Groeschel said.

"A good question to ask yourself at checkpoints during the relationship  a month in, two months, three months in, 12 months in  are we growing closer to Jesus? Am I spiritually stronger today than I was before?"
Man arrested after protesting Virginia megachurch Pastor John Blanchard amid prostitution case

A 43-year-old man was arrested Sunday following months of protesting against Virginia Beach Pastor John Blanchard after the embattled megachurch leader, who faced solicitation of sex with minor charges, brought stalking charges against him.

Jamie Thomas was put in handcuffs directly outside the Rock Church and was taken before a magistrate on misdemeanor charges of stalking and disclosing expunged police records, The Virginian-Pilot reports. He was later released on his own recognizance.

Thomas posted a video on YouTube of himself, his wife and son protesting outside the church. Thomas can be heard talking into a megaphone, saying, "John Blanchard is a pedophile." Minutes later, the video shows three police officers taking Thomas into custody.

In November 2021, Blanchard, who is married with two children, was arrested in an October sting operation aimed at capturing people seeking sexual relations with minors online.

He was among 17 total arrested by authorities at a hotel where he was supposed to meet a detective posing as a 17-year-old girl. He was later charged with felony solicitation of prostitution and using a vehicle to promote prostitution.

"The suspects communicated with people they believed to be underage members of our community and arranged to meet them at a location to have sexual relations. When the suspects came to the location, they were met by police and arrested," explained the authorities at the time.

The Rock Church posted a statement to its website in response to the arrest at the time, stating that Blanchard had "voluntarily stepped back as lead pastor and from all his ministerial duties until this present situation is totally resolved."

After almost a year of legal maneuvering, the charges against Blanchard were withdrawn or nolle prossed in October 2022 after District Attorney Stacey Davenport reached a deal with defense attorney Noel Brooks that "Blanchard would agree to a psychosexual evaluation and sex offender related counseling."

Nolle prossed cases mean that prosecutors could eventually bring the charges again.

The Chesterfield County Police Department stated that Davenport cited a "lack of evidence" in not moving forward with the case against Blanchard, according to a WRIC.

Chesterfield County Police Chief, Col. Jeffrey S. Katz, disagreed with the decision, and spoke publicly after Blanchard's attorney filed a motion to "seal all police or court records, transcripts, and investigative records associated with this case." Katz said that cases with less compelling evidence had led to convictions.

Fifteen of the 17 people charged in the November 2021 sting were fully prosecuted.

"When someone: 1. Rents a car, 2. Texts a phone number posted on a known sex worker website, 3. Solicits a 'qv' ('John' lingo for a 'quick visit'), 4. Makes multiple inquiries if the person he's texting is 'affiliated with law enforcement,' 5. Drives two and a half hours to a hotel and knocks on the hotel room door  as directed by our undercover '17-year-old,' I believe a jury of Chesterfield County residents deserves to weigh in on the matter of criminal culpability," the police chief wrote in a Facebook post.

In February, a special prosecutor was appointed for Blanchard's case after Davenport said she found new evidence in Blanchard's case. A judge recently gave the special prosecutor until June 7 to decide whether to pursue an indictment in Blanchard's case, according to The Virginian-Pilot.

As for Thomas, documents obtained by The Pilot show Blanchard filed criminal charges against Thomas early Sunday morning, claiming that Thomas showed up outside Blanchard's "place of work and worship" at least 15 times and engaged in intimidating and threatening behavior.

"He has stated that he has us under surveillance and is using the 'Starlink' security system and knows everything we do," the complaint claims. "He has stated personal information that is not public and has repeatedly said he is looking forward to a confrontation."
Nigeria: Armed terrorists kill 33 Christians; bishop calls bloodshed 'handiwork of the evil ones'

ABUJA, Nigeria  Fulani herdsmen and other terrorists killed 33 Christians in an attack Saturday night through the early hours of Sunday in Kaduna state, Nigeria.

Area residents said herdsmen alongside other armed terrorists invaded predominantly Christian Runji village, in Zangon Kataf County, at about 10 p.m. on Saturday.

Please pray for us. Its a black Sunday, as 33 Christians were killed by herdsmen and terrorists in the early hours of Sunday, 16 April, area resident Mugu Zakka Bako said in a text message to Morning Star News. They were also buried today, Monday, 17 April.

The Rev. Jacob Kwashi, bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Zonkwa, Kaduna state, presided over the mass burial of the 33 Christians.

In the past seven-and-half-years, we in southern Kaduna have seen the handiwork of the evil ones who have decided that theyll keep releasing evil on us in our land until we dont know when theyll stop, Kashi said. It has always been obvious and clear that the government is capable and able to stop this evil, be it the government of Kaduna state or the government of Nigeria, theyre capable, theyre able to stop this evil, but the truth is that, are they ready and willing to stop this evil?

The Rev. Bauta Motty, a Christian leader from southern Kaduna state and a former general secretary of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), said in a statement that the attack on Runji village was the third on area Christians in a week. He said the attack on Runji left many others wounded and burned many houses; published reports cited a government official as saying 40 homes were destroyed.

Before then, two Christians were killed four days earlier in that same village, Motty said. This is beside the 17 Christians that were killed four days ago at Atak Njei village.

Area resident Grace Bamaiyi said almost half the villages houses were burned. Another resident, John Kantiyok, described the attack as a massacre.

Lets pray for Runji village in Zangon Kataf Local Government Area, which came under heavy attack on Sunday night, Kantiyok said in a text message to Morning Star News. Many Christians are feared killed, and almost half of the houses in the village have been burned and destroyed. It is nothing short of a massacre.

Francis Sani, a council official of Zangon Kataf Local Government Area, in a press statement confirmed the killing of the 33 Christians.

The attackers in their numbers maimed and burned mostly women and children, set houses ablaze, and raided several houses within the community, leaving an aftermath of gruesome murder of 33 people, with four sustaining various degrees of injuries and some in critical condition that have been referred to Specialist Hospital, and properties worth millions destroyed, Sani said. We are devastated and shocked by the level of carnage and mindless bloodletting.

Samuel Aruwan, Kaduna state spokesman, said troops had a fierce encounter with the attackers and are still in the general area.

While waiting for a detailed report, Gov. Nasir El-Rufai, who received the preliminary report in the early hours of Sunday, has condemned the killings as unacceptable and unjustifiable, Aruwan said. The governor consoled the families that lost their loved ones and prayed for the repose of the victims souls. He also prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured.

Nigeria led the world in Christians killed for their faith in 2022, with 5,014, according to Open Doors 2023 World Watch List (WWL) report. It also led the world in Christians abducted (4,726), sexually assaulted or harassed, forcibly married or physically or mentally abused, and it had the most homes and businesses attacked for faith-based reasons. As in the previous year, Nigeria had the second most church attacks and internally displaced people.

In the 2023 World Watch List of the countries where it is most difficult to be a Christian, Nigeria jumped to sixth place, its highest ranking ever, from No. 7 the previous year.

Militants from the Fulani, Boko Haram, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and others conduct raids on Christian communities, killing, maiming, raping and kidnapping for ransom or sexual slavery, the WWL report noted. This year has also seen this violence spill over into the Christian-majority south of the nation.  Nigerias government continues to deny this is religious persecution, so violations of Christians rights are carried out with impunity.

Numbering in the millions across Nigeria and the Sahel, predominantly Muslim Fulani comprise hundreds of clans of many different lineages who do not hold extremist views, but some Fulani do adhere to radical Islamist ideology, the United Kingdoms All-Party Parliamentary Group for International Freedom or Belief (APPG) noted in a recent report.

They adopt a comparable strategy to Boko Haram and ISWAP and demonstrate a clear intent to target Christians and potent symbols of Christian identity, the APPG report states.

Christian leaders in Nigeria have said they believe herdsmen attacks on Christian communities in Nigerias Middle Belt are inspired by their desire to forcefully take over Christians lands and impose Islam as desertification has made it difficult for them to sustain their herds.
Secular groups challenge legality of relief loans for churches impacted by COVID-19

Secularist advocacy groups are pressuring the Small Business Administration to discriminate against churches and religious nonprofits struggling during the coronavirus lockdown when administering protection loans created by the new stimulus package.

American Atheists, a nonprofit advocacy group that promotes separation of church and state, teamed up with like-minded groups to send a letter to SBA Administrator Jovita Carranza Tuesday.

They pushed back against calls for the agency to treat churches and religious charities equally when administering the loan program created by last weeks legislation.

Under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, about $350 billion in government payroll protection loans are available to organizations to help pay for things like payroll and employee-related expenses.



As the agency prepares to issue regulations on the newly passed stimulus bill, the organizations asked the agency not to set aside what their letter called vital constitutional protections for religious freedom.

The organizations assert that the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment precludes government funding of religious activities.

Our historical understanding of religious liberty is built on the idea that government entanglement with religion can be a profound threat to individual rights, too often leading to religious oppression, the groups stated in the joint letter sent March 31.

A core principle of religious liberty is that the coercive taxing power of the government cannot be used to force citizens to support a religion that is not their own.



American Atheists were joined in the letter by American Humanist Association, Center for Disability Rights, Center for Inquiry, Freedom From Religion Foundation, National Black Justice Coalition, National Center for Transgender Equality and Secular Coalition for America.

Even during this emergency, Congress recognized that it is essential to protect our constitutional separation of religion and government by, for example, providing that institutions of higher education receiving funds in the stimulus package may not use such funding for capital outlays associated with facilities related to sectarian instruction, or religious worship," the letter reads.

The organizations argue that SBA regulations already provide that businesses principally engaged in teaching, instructing, counseling or indoctrinating religion or religious beliefs, whether in a religious or secular setting are not eligible for SBA business loans.



Moreover, businesses are not eligible for economic disaster loans that are Principally engaged in teaching, instructing, counseling, or indoctrinating religion or religious beliefs, whether in a religious or secular setting, the letter continues.

These provisions would apply to the CARES Act, respectively the Paycheck Protection Program and the Emergency Economic Injury Disaster Loans, which both provide loans to small businesses and nonprofits.

On Thursday evening, Republican Sen. Josh Hawley of Missouri sent a letter urging SBA officials to correct local and regional offices that are telling churches and religious nonprofits that they are not eligible to participate in the Paycheck Protection Program.

Hawley further demanded that the SBA must not arbitrarily disqualify churches and other religious nonprofits. He argued that reports of misinformation at SBA local offices underscore the need for swift official guidance and program rules.



SBA offices are communicating to churches that they are not eligible for the program before the application process, Hawley wrote. I am alarmed by these erroneous instructions, which directly contradict the text of the statute. You must rectify this issue immediately.

Hawley pointed to Section 1102 of the CARES ACT to argue that unaffiliated non-profit entities with under 500 employees that are structured as 501(c)(3) organizations are eligible for assistance.

This includes churches and other religious nonprofits, he stressed. As I noted in my previous letter dated April 1, 2020, organizations with a principal religious purpose are not excluded from assistance under the Paycheck Protection Program.

Russell Moore, president of the Southern Baptist Conventions Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission, contended in an op-ed that the SBA loans dont violate the principle of separation of church and state.



The loans themselves, whether to a church or to a hardware store, are not from the government at all, but, as always, from banks, Moore pointed out. The governments role is simply to guarantee to the banks these loans, in case of default. That does not privilege or penalize any religion in any way different from any other entity.

Moore added that as many church leaders are reluctant to take funding from the government, many are uneasy with the fact that some of these loans may turn out to be forgivable depending on how the borrowed funding is used.



Some are concerned that were they to take out SBA-backed loans, especially if they turn out to be forgivable, that this will invite the government in to dictate their ministries or policies, he explained. We have no indication that such would be the case, and, were any future governing authority to seek retroactively to restrict the First Amendment on such grounds, I believe such a move would be successfully repudiated in court.

Moore compared SBA loans to a church calling the local fire department when there is a fire.

This is not government support of that church, he argued. Its the governments interest in keeping people from being killed in a conflagration. A similar dynamic is at work here. The government would no more be entangled in your churchs ministry as a result of this than your bank is now.

In 2017, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the state of Missouri could not discriminate against a church daycare facility that applied to a secular funding program to help improve the safety of its playground just because of its inherent religious affiliation.



The letter from the secular groups urges the SBA not to apply the Supreme Courts 2017 ruling because it did not address religious uses of funding or other forms of discrimination.
Youth For Christ ministry points incarcerated youth, young dads to God as the ultimate 'good father'

While dads across the country are set to celebrate Fathers Day with their families, many of them will mark the holiday in a detention facility.

An estimated 684,500 state and federal prisoners were parents of at least one minor child in 2016, totaling nearly half of state prisoners (47%) and more than half of federal prisoners (58%), according to government data.

The vast majority of parents incarcerated in a U.S. prison or detention facility  92%  are fathers.

So this Fathers Day, Youth For Christ, a ministry focused on fostering Christ-sharing relationships with high-risk youth from juvenile offenders to teen parents, is looking to bring hope to those within prison walls.

The group's Juvenile Justice Ministry is geared toward young people in the United States justice system, meeting them in a variety of juvenile justice settings, including detention centers, probation, correctional facilities, group homes, residential treatment centers, and emergency shelters.

Alex Mathew, executive director of Youth For Christ, told The Christian Post that the ministrys focus for Fathers Day is to be a steady voice and presence in the lives of those they serve.

Were going to focus on Jesus, but were not going to focus and reflect on their earthly fathers, because so many of them have been disappointed or theyre even modeling the negative choices their fathers are making, Mathew said.

For many in the cycle of fatherlessness, Mathew says incarceration has become a rite of passage, almost like graduation for some.

We want to break that cycle, he added.

The ministry came about when Youth For Christ was holding an outreach in a detention center and someone asked the question, Who is Jesus to you?

One young man replied, A father figure, Matthew said.

We realized, Lets start reconstructing what a good father looks like, even though you might not have it in your life, he added.

The program seeks to put father in Christ figures around young people dealing with relational trauma, racial trauma, community violence, and lack of access to basic needs to show them what fathering looks like, said Mathew.

He said in Scripture we find all sorts of models of good and bad fathers, even good fathers-in-law such as with Moses and Jethro.

For Mathew, though, the real question is helping to define biblical fatherhood for those who never had an example of their own.

What if the purpose of us as men from God is not necessarily to be this billionaire or millionaire, but maybe its to be a good father, and all of these things will fall into place according to His will? he said.

And while building up young men and pointing them to the One who can transform them into good dads is never easy, Mathew said its not uncommon for those who go through the program to struggle once theyve moved on.

I always tell young people, You cant control your genetics, you cant control your environment, but you can control your choices, he said.

With young people who have been institutionalized, Mathew said theres often a lack of community to receive them and build them back up once theyre released: theres usually a honeymoon period when they want to go all in and then a couple of weeks later, they tend to go back to their old ways because their environment really sabotages them.

Our desire is to have a safe place where they can come, even if they slide backward, to encounter God, just by baby steps maybe.

Researchers have found children who grow up with an engaged dad are less likely to drop out of school or end up in jail compared to children with absent fathers or no other male role model in their lives.

Children who have close relationships with their fathers also tend to avoid high-risk behaviors, are less likely to have sex at a young age and are more likely to have high-paying jobs and healthy, stable relationships as adults.

And its not just behavioral: researchers in 2017 said they discovered a biological link that shows how the loss of a father significantly affects children at the level of their DNA.

Children raised without a dad have much shorter ends of their chromosomes, known as telomeres. These chromosomal protective caps are believed to affect health and longevity more positively for those with fathers in the home, according to studies.
Youth pastor, 6th grade teacher used church Wi-Fi to download child porn: police

A youth pastor at Palatka Baptist Temple in Florida, who downloaded pornographic images from the church's Wi-Fi and uploaded images of himself and shared them with underage victims on several social media platforms has been arrested and charged with possession of child pornography and using a two-way communication device to facilitate a felony.

The former youth pastor, Edward Wilds III, 44, is also the son of Ed Wilds, Palatka Baptist Temples lead pastor. Calls to the church by The Christian Post on Monday went unanswered, but Sheriff H.D. Gator DeLoach said during a press conference on Friday that investigators discovered some 54,000 images on accounts and devices associated with Wilds and most of them were pornographic.

This is a clear-cut case of child sexual exploitation and Im deeply troubled by the commission of such heinous crime in our hometown, DeLoach said. The exploitation and abuse of children is a despicable act that has no place in our society. Wilds behavior is disgusting, vile, and repugnant and I will not tolerate it in our county. Todays arrest of Wilds for possession of child pornography serves as a stark reminder that we all have a responsibility to be vigilant in protecting our children from all forms of abuse.

Detectives started tracking the youth pastor, who had served as an elementary school teacher in the Putnam County Schools for 11 years, after they were alerted to the possible distribution of child pornography through a cyber-tip from a social media site on May 22, 2022, police said in a statement. It was later discovered that Wilds had downloaded pornography images from Palatka Baptist Temples Wi-Fi after a Wednesday evening service.

He further revealed that one social media company had banned him several times. Detectives found he was asked by another user on the platform for images of children between the ages of 14-16 years old. He allegedly sent 42 images.

Detectives took possession of Wilds electronic devices in March and conducted a forensic download where they discovered among the images a male child exposing his genitals to the camera. Police alerted the Putnam County School District where Wilds was immediately suspended from his job at Middleton-Burney Elementary School.

On April 12, a probable cause affidavit was submitted to the state attorneys office and a warrant for Wilds arrest was issued on Friday.

Its alarming and disappointing to share that Mr. Eddie Wilds, a teacher at Middleton-Burney Elementary School, is alleged to have engaged in activities that exploited children, Rick Surrency, superintendent of Putnam County schools said at the press conference Friday.

Surrency said he was first alerted by police on March 14 that Wilds was being investigated and he was immediately removed from the classroom and all school board property during which time we have been cooperating with the Putnam County Sheriffs Office.

Our first and foremost concern has been the protection of our students and since the notification of this investigation, Mr. Wilds has had no contact with Putnam County School District students, he said.

Surrency said in the 11 years the youth pastor has served as a teacher he had no complaints or incidents of abuse reported against him. Still, he said, Wilds will remain on administrative leave pending a recommendation to the school board for his termination.

At this time there is no indication that any of these allegations involve students of the Putnam County School District. All parents and students were notified of his arrest and counselors are available to all students and staff. This behavior should never occur but especially by someone who serves in an educational setting, Surrency said.

Those serving children are held to the highest standards and the Putnam County School District will continue to work closely with local law enforcement to keep our students safe.
Dear Christian: 5 things to know about atheism

Contemporary atheism is not simply a denial of all religions; its really an ideology. Conversations between atheism and Christian faith usually get frustrating for both, because the formers ideology is restricted from considering what the latter claims. Christians should be more informed and not allow a cultural narrative of science vs faith to blindside them, and dampen their confidence. Here are five essential points to enrich a Christians knowledge, and to realize that atheism is not so open-minded to evidence as it claims.

1. Devoted to materialism

The material universe, and our world in it, is all that we have, or ever will be. Atheism thinks strictly within these parameters. In its worldview, science must have a tangible point of reference. Accordingly, modern scientific observations of the fine-tuning of the Universe and specified complexity in micro-biology, that suggest compelling inferences to a Designer, are dismissed by default. Now of course these telescopic and microscopic observations do not directly prove that God exists. For a Christian, however, its part of a cumulative case which strongly adds support to the personal experience of faith that correlates to Biblical revelation. It thus contributes to the reasonableness of Christian faith.

In light of modern scientific knowledge, however, a few atheists have begun to demonstrate intellectual humility by submitting that theories of material/chance creating complexity are failing (See, Thomas Nagel, Mind and Cosmos: Why the Materialist Neo-Darwinian Conception of Nature is Almost Certainly False). Nevertheless, atheism insists on methodological naturalism and refuses to budge, believing that a natural explanation will one day account for fine-tuning and biological complexity. Modern science is pushing that expectation further away as it continues to suggest increasingly that the information in our human constitution was not a fluke, but an intentional act of the mind. Also, the laws of science cannot explain the cause of the universe, because they were brought into existence when the universe began. The laws were absent prior to the universes birth and so could not have been the cause. Regardless, atheism barrels along with its non-negotiable ideology.

2. Counter-perspectives are not seriously considered

For decades now, I have had countless conversations with atheists, over coffee, at events, online, and in the classroom with students and professors. I have found a few things that are consistently prevalent: they are always quick to refer me to skeptical literature about Christianity, and they enjoy being a gadfly far more than being genuinely open-minded to the possibility of God. When I reveal to them that I have read those authors' writing, they are usually surprised, because most atheists think that Christians are blind followers of faith (though thats beginning to change a bit). I usually recommend contemporary theistic literature in return, but they usually turn them down or claim to have read them but can't answer my questions. Somehow, they are apprehensive about discovering the Truth.

Atheists claim to be freethinkers, but what is really meant is free from thinking about anything to do with God. In my doctoral program, I took a course with an atheist professor, a freethinker. Years later, I ran into him at an academic event. We exchanged pleasantries and conversed about philosophical theology. I suggested he read some of the latest literature on theism that had emerged in noteworthy philosophical circles. He waved his hand and said, No, I dont read that stuff.

3. Christian faith is misunderstood

If an atheist claims to be open-minded, an educated understanding of Pauls Letter to the Romans should be demonstrated. That doesnt mean that an atheist should read Romans as the Word of God, but at least as an iconic literary piece of history that has influenced Western Civilization. An atheist should be educated on what was intended by the author of Romans, though not necessarily agree. I have found that atheists prefer secondary literature about Christianity wherein the authors are already skeptical.



Generally, atheism is under the impression that Christian faith means having to listen to indoctrinating and boring sermons, observing ancient rituals, reciting dry prayers, and giving up all the fun stuff in life. Most of all, they believe that an acceptance of the Christian faith implies surrendering ones mind and freedom. They dont get that the Christian faith is a personal and liberating relationship with Christ that provides abundant intellectual and existential fulfillment, with a wonderful realization of ultimate reality.

4. It seeks to replace God

Yet atheists live as though God were true. They exercise neighborliness, engage in benevolence, and believe in right and wrong moral actions. Like anyone else, they also expect justice when wronged. Now they appeal to the evolutionary processes as responsible for developing contemporary society. That is to say, a mindless and blind process assembled our minds by natural means and when we became cognizant of our rational minds, we proceeded to establish the required societal norms. This is an ideological belief, and I agree that the materialist neo-Darwinian conception of nature is almost certainly false.



What about the necessary nutrients for life found in apples, oranges, bananas, etc.? Well, they naturally sprung from the earth  whats the problem? However, it seems that some scientists are realizing the shortcomings of material/chance theories to account for fine-tuning, complexity and consciousness, and in desperation are positing some wild hypotheses. Recently, and seriously, scientists have published the possibility that an alien civilization may send us a message that could help elucidate our existence. Sure, anything but God!

5. Atheism strains reason

Atheism claims to be based on evidence and rationality. The problem is that its interpretation of evidence strains reason. If we began as matter and evolved by a mindless, blind, natural process, then how is it that we can converse and understand one another? Matter plus matter cannot produce consciousness. Its a non-sequitur. Neither can matter reason with other matter and solve problems, as humans do. Humans rationalize, observe, comprehend, solve, and create, because of the magnificent mind, ears, eyes, and larynx God gave us.



An atheist reading this would probably insist that we dont know certain things, and in the future science may provide answers. This convolutes rationality and even suspends it from interpreting evidence. Knowledge is based on what science does know. We observe that matter is inanimate and human beings are complexly conscious in a perfectly fine-tuned planet. Its reasonable to believe that the rationality and consciousness of humans are best explained by inference to God. Atheism can deny this all day long, but its denial doesnt make the inference irrational. Thus, mainstream science is beginning to consider extra-terrestrial influences, as strictly natural explanations seem to strain reason.

In conclusion, a genuine freethinker should rigorously question the ideology of atheism, and be open-minded to the possibility that the Christian faith is not a killjoy, a science stopper, a mind-closer, or an irrational worldview. With independent thinking, an atheist should read the Letter to the Romans and draw ones own conclusions. Thats what free thinking should be all about.
MrBeast goes beast mode on 'transphobes'

MrBeast is a famous YouTuber whose videos focus primarily on expensive stunts and money giveaways. His channel has over 146 million subscribers, most of them teenagers. Because of this, he has a huge platform to influence the younger generations.

MrBeast recently defended his video collaborator, Chris Tyson, from intense backlash after news broke that Chris has received hormone replacement therapy. MrBeast tweeted, This is getting absurd. Chris isnt my nightmare hes my #@!*@! friend and things are fine. All this transphobia is starting to piss me off.

Emptiness will return

To be sure, we need a lot more compassion in the Christian community, but we cant overlook the truth in the hope of not offending.

Chris called his hormone replacement treatment life-saving. Perhaps it took away the emptiness for a short season (change often does), but eventually, the emptiness will return because without obeying Gods Word, we will never find peace. Just ask the Ex-Navy SEAL who eventually detransitioned because he found true hope and genuine peace in turning to his Creator.

How did we get here?

Why are we called phobes when we simply want to be helpful? We are not fearful, we are full of hope. We are not unloving; its love that commands us to speak the truth.

Is it possible to love, support, and encourage people without supporting their sins? Yes, it is absolutely possible. Speaking the truth in love is designed to spark conviction leading to repentance (where true hope is found).

The truth invites dialogue; error runs from it. This is why one side resorts to name-calling and belittling; they cant overcome the truth so they try to murder the messenger. Words are weapons; they can convict the heart or coddle the sinner. The enemy of our soul doesnt want us to be lovingly challenged and possibly forever changed.

Calling evil good

When humanity is given over to depravity (as we so often see today), all hell breaks loose. How else can we explain men dressing provocatively and dancing in front of children  an all too common occurrence today? This is perversion at the highest level. The Bible says, Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter (Isaiah 5:20).

MrBeast seems upset that others would dare to challenge him. Pride prevents people from repenting. And this is also why so many people who have transitioned are angry, confused, and hurt: Validate my decision! Tolerate my choice! Shut your mouth! or else!

When all else fails

My prayer is that MrBeast returns to his Christian roots and that his video collaborator Chris understands that he is loved by God. He, like all of us caught in sin, must repent and trust Jesus sacrifice on the cross to cleanse us from ALL sin. Jesus Christ is the only hope for this hopeless world, the only solution for lifes problems, and the only way to truly know God.
Foley Beach calls on Welby to repent

Last night, in his presidential address to the fourth Global Anglican Futures Conference (GAFCON), the leader of the GAFCON Primates Council, Archbishop Foley Beach, called on the Archbishop of Canterbury to repent.

"Sadly, with broken hearts, we must say that unless the Archbishop of Canterbury repents, we can no longer recognise him as the 'first among equals' and the spiritual leader of the Anglican Communion," he said.

The fourth Global Anglican Futures Conference (GAFCON) is taking place in Kigali, Rwanda, this week.

Continuing his presidential address, Archbishop Beach also called on the Scottish Episcopal Church, the Church in Wales, the Episcopal Church of Brazil, the Anglican Church in Aotearoa, New Zealand and Polynesia, The Anglican Church of Canada and The Episcopal Church USA to repent and, "Return to the teaching of the word of God."

This was not said in a vacuum. Archbishop Foley was talking about the need for a modern Anglican Church to be, amongst other things, a "repenting church"  throwing ourselves on the mercy of the Lord.

"He's constantly showing me my sin, and unless I repent, I quench the Holy Spirit in my life and ministry," he said.

Those gathered were also called on to repent, "Some of us need to repent of our sins, our provincial sin, our church's sin, our personal sins - sexual sins are not the only sins in the Bible."

Archbishop Beach used the rest of his address to paint a fuller picture of what was needed in a modern Anglican church  a repenting church, a reconciling church, a reproducing church and a relentlessly compassionate church.

If those attending can catch this vision of church and live it out as they return to their villages, neighbourhoods and families, it may have an even greater impact than any structural changes to the Anglican Communion that are likely to be discussed later in the week.

Susie Leafe is director of Anglican Futures, which supports orthodox Anglicans in the UK.
George Verwer: a hero of the faith

George Verwer died on Friday 14th April at the age of eighty-four. With his passing the church has lost a man who had an astonishing global influence on the way the church carries out its vital task of sharing the good news of Jesus.

In Operation Mobilisation  known as OM  that George started and led for over forty years, quite literally countless thousands of individuals have been brought to Christ and, no less significant, an equally vast number of Christians have been equipped to share their faith with confidence and boldness. Many church leaders that I know can say how formative their time  long or short  with OM has been for their lives and ministries.

It would take a very large book to do any kind of justice to the many extraordinary labours that George undertook for the gospel, and here I can only give you the briefest outline of his life.

George was born in New Jersey in 1938 and, through the remarkable influence of a praying neighbour and a gospel challenge from Billy Graham, came to faith at the age of sixteen. George began his Christian life as he was to go on: totally committed to spreading the gospel. He soon introduced many of his classmates to Jesus. Then, drawn to areas unreached by evangelism, he went on a mission trip to Mexico where he shared Christ and distributed Christian literature.

He studied at Moody Bible Institute where he instigated nights of prayer, organised evangelistic ventures and met and married Drena Knecht, who was to become his life-long partner, helper and encourager. As his missionary ventures extended to Spain, the Communist Bloc and the Muslim world, George, with his astonishing ability to motivate and lead others, created Operation Mobilisation.

His dynamic and compelling advocacy and the fact that OM offered a variety of programmes of evangelism with few requirements, soon drew hundreds and then thousands. In 1964 George had the remarkable idea of using ships to visit countries, 'sharing knowledge, help and hope'.

The result was many years of extraordinarily fruitful ministry with a succession of vessels, the most recent being Logos Hope. In 2003 George stepped back from leading OM to work on special projects.

Always radical, OM has had  and continues to have  a global impact. It's no secret that in many of those countries where the Christian faith is forbidden and punished, there are men and women either from OM, or influenced by OM, who are building God's church at the risk of their lives.

Throughout his life, George was a popular conference speaker and preacher of extraordinary power and a remarkable authority. I've no doubt that as news of George's passing spreads there are many people saying, 'Oh, I heard him speak forty years ago and I haven't forgotten the impact that he made on my life.' George's influence was spread even further by the punchy no-holds-barred books that he wrote and then by a presence on the internet.

I was privileged to know George and I have no hesitation in using the word 'unique' to describe him. Like many great people, George held together what could have been opposing aspects of life. He was a pioneer missionary but also someone who found an astonishingly fruitful niche as the creator and leader of an organisation. He was a passionate radical but without the criticism so often associated with radicalism.

He was a man who always looked heavenward in prayer but at the same time was intensely focused on what was happening on earth. Although he took his role as OM's figurehead seriously, he had a compelling and sometimes outrageous honesty. I had George on one of my Facing the Canon interviews and I can honestly say it was one of the most unpredictable interviews I have ever had!

Above all, George was a man of mission and let me mention three areas that inspired me.

First, George modelled mission. He didn't simply subscribe in some intellectual way to the need to take the gospel to the ends of the earth; he gave everything he was, and had, to the task. If ever an evangelist truly 'walked the talk' it was George. He was supremely committed to missions to the extent of wearing clothes that almost everybody else would have consigned to the rubbish bin. He made a habit of turning up at conferences or preaching engagements wearing a flamboyant jacket displaying all the countries of the world. George set out a standard of discipleship and lived it.

Second, George was a motivator for mission. It was commonly held amongst Christian students and others that going to hear George Verwer speak on missions was a very risky business indeed. There was a very real danger that you would leave the meeting having signed up for serving on a ship or for distributing Christian literature in some country you couldn't even place on a map.

Finally, George was a mobiliser for mission. He didn't simply inspire people to become missionaries; he made it as easy as possible for that to happen. His choice of the phrase Operation Mobilisation for his organisation was utterly appropriate. Almost single-handedly, he threw the door open for people to try mission. He offered various opportunities in different places for different lengths of time, and insisted on little more than a willingness to share the gospel and to endure various inconveniences and risks. At a time where mission was becoming more and more 'professionalised' George somehow was able to throw open the doors for ordinary Christians.

There will be much said in praise of George Verwer and I have a suspicion it will almost all be merited. Yet above it all I hear George's own voice, echoing that of Paul in 1 Corinthians 11:1 (NIV), 'Follow my example, as I have followed the example of Christ.'

George Verwer  a hero of the faith and promoted to glory.

Canon J.John is the Director of Philo Trust. Visit his website at www.canonjjohn.com or follow him on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.
Teachers can refuse to use pupils' preferred pronouns under new government guidance

New guidance being drawn up by the government is expected to say that single-sex schools can reject transgender pupils and teachers will not be obligated to use a pupil's preferred pronouns, The Daily Telegraph reports.

The Department for Education (DfE) has been preparing to publish new guidance on what has increasingly become a minefield for schools and teachers.

A source from the Department for Education told The Daily Telegraph: "Single-sex schools can refuse to admit pupils of the other legal sex regardless of whether the child is questioning their gender."

The confirmation came days after the Daily Mail reported that a teacher at a girls' school had been forced to apologise after addressing the class with "good morning, girls".

Addressing the report on Times Radio, education secretary Gillian Keegan called for a common sense approach.

She said: "'Good morning, girls' is absolutely fine to say in a girls' school to a girls' class, and we have to be sensible and have a big dose of common sense here."

Keegan has previously said that guidance should advise schools to inform parents if their child wishes to use different pronouns.

A recent report by the Policy Exchange think tank found that seven in 10 schools are failing to inform parents of their child's desire to change gender.

Last year, the Department for Education (DfE) awarded Christian parents Nigel and Sally Rowe 22,000 in costs and promised to reform official guidance for schools on transgender issues after the couple successfully challenged its trans-affirming policies.

The settlement was reached after the couple won permission at the High Court for a judicial review into the government's transgender educational policies.

In another case, Christian maths teacher Joshua Sutcliffe was dismissed in 2017 after allegedly 'misgendering' a pupil at his school. He is currently challenging his removal from the Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA).

Bernard Randall lost his job as a chaplain at a Church of England school after telling pupils in a sermon that they did not need to agree with LGBT ideology.

All three cases have been assisted by the Christian Legal Centre (CLC). The organisation's CEO Andrea Williams recently called transgender ideology in schools "the mother of all safeguarding failures".

"Somehow 'transgender ideology' has come to trump safeguarding in schools. This is a serious moral failure and harmful for our children," she said.
Terrorists kill 33 Christians in village in Kaduna State, Nigeria

Fulani herdsmen and other terrorists killed 33 Christians in an attack Saturday night through the early hours of Sunday in Kaduna state, Nigeria.

Area residents said herdsmen alongside other armed terrorists invaded predominantly Christian Runji village, in Zangon Kataf County, at about 10pm on Saturday.

"Please pray for us. It's a black Sunday, as 33 Christians were killed by herdsmen and terrorists in the early hours of Sunday, 16 April," area resident Mugu Zakka Bako said in a text message to Morning Star News. "They were also buried today, Monday, 17 April."

The Rev Jacob Kwashi, bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Zonkwa, Kaduna state, presided over the mass burial of the 33 Christians.

"In the past seven and half years, we in southern Kaduna have seen the handiwork of the evil ones who have decided that they'll keep releasing evil on us in our land until we don't know when they'll stop," Kashi said.

"It has always been obvious and clear that the government is capable and able to stop this evil, be it the government of Kaduna state or the government of Nigeria, they're capable, they're able to stop this evil, but the truth is that, are they ready and willing to stop this evil?"

The Rev Bauta Motty, a Christian leader from southern Kaduna state and a former general secretary of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), said in a statement that the attack on Runji village was the third on area Christians in a week. He said the attack on Runji left many others wounded and burned many houses; published reports cited a government official as saying 40 homes were destroyed.

"Before then, two Christians were killed four days earlier in that same village," Motty said. "This is beside the 17 Christians that were killed four days ago at Atak Njei village."

Area resident Grace Bamaiyi said almost half the village's houses were burned. Another resident, John Kantiyok, described the attack as a massacre.

"Let's pray for Runji village in Zangon Kataf Local Government Area, which came under heavy attack on Sunday night," Kantiyok said in a text message to Morning Star News. "Many Christians are feared killed, and almost half of the houses in the village have been burnt and destroyed. It is nothing short of a massacre."

Francis Sani, council official of Zangon Kataf Local Government Area, in a press statement confirmed the killing of the 33 Christians.

"The attackers in their numbers maimed and burned mostly women and children, set houses ablaze, and raided several houses within the community, leaving an aftermath of gruesome murder of 33 people, with four sustaining various degrees of injuries and some in critical condition that have been referred to Specialist Hospital, and properties worth millions destroyed," Sani said. "We are devastated and shocked by the level of carnage and mindless bloodletting."

Samuel Aruwan, Kaduna state spokesman, said troops "had a fierce encounter with the attackers and are still in the general area."

"While waiting for a detailed report, Gov. Nasir El-Rufai, who received the preliminary report in the early hours of Sunday, has condemned the killings as unacceptable and unjustifiable," Aruwan said. "The governor condoled the families that lost their loved ones and prayed for the repose of the victims' souls. He also prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured."

Nigeria led the world in Christians killed for their faith in 2022, with 5,014, according to Open Doors' 2023 World Watch List (WWL) report. It also led the world in Christians abducted (4,726), sexually assaulted or harassed, forcibly married or physically or mentally abused, and it had the most homes and businesses attacked for faith-based reasons. As in the previous year, Nigeria had the second most church attacks and internally displaced people.

In the 2023 World Watch List of the countries where it is most difficult to be a Christian, Nigeria jumped to sixth place, its highest ranking ever, from No. 7 the previous year.

"Militants from the Fulani, Boko Haram, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and others conduct raids on Christian communities, killing, maiming, raping and kidnapping for ransom or sexual slavery," the WWL report noted. "This year has also seen this violence spill over into the Christian-majority south of the nation... Nigeria's government continues to deny this is religious persecution, so violations of Christians' rights are carried out with impunity."

Numbering in the millions across Nigeria and the Sahel, predominantly Muslim Fulani comprise hundreds of clans of many different lineages who do not hold extremist views, but some Fulani do adhere to radical Islamist ideology, the United Kingdom's All-Party Parliamentary Group for International Freedom or Belief (APPG) noted in a recent report.

"They adopt a comparable strategy to Boko Haram and ISWAP and demonstrate a clear intent to target Christians and potent symbols of Christian identity," the APPG report states.

Christian leaders in Nigeria have said they believe herdsmen attacks on Christian communities in Nigeria's Middle Belt are inspired by their desire to forcefully take over Christians' lands and impose Islam as desertification has made it difficult for them to sustain their herds.

 2023 Morning Star News
BURLINGTON, Vt. (AP)  Global ice cream maker Ben & Jerrys said Tuesday it supports a plan to unionize by the workers at a retail shop in the same city where the brand, known as much for its social activism as its products, was founded.

Ben & Jerry's said, in a statement, it shares the goal of advancing justice, both inside and outside our company. The ice cream manufacturer was founded in a former gas station a short distance from its retail shop in downtown Burlington, Vermont.

Thats why we recognize and support the rights of all workers to unionize and collectively bargain, the company said. "Ben & Jerrys is committed to the goal of operating our company in a way that is fair, inclusive, and equitable, while being a dynamic and fun place for all workers."

About 40 employees at the Burlington shop said Monday they had formed an organizing committee and petitioned the National Labor Relations Board for an election. They said they have the support of the upstate New York & Vermont chapter of Workers United , the union that started the Starbucks unionization campaign in Buffalo, New York.

I think the statement is a great sign, Workers United organizing director Jaz Brisack, who covers upstate New York and Vermont, said Tuesday after seeing Ben & Jerry's statement.

Brisack said they were hopeful Ben & Jerry's would partner with the workers in forming the union.

A union organizer who works at the Ben & Jerrys store in downtown Burlington, Vermont, said most of the workers are local college or high school students and dont know how to advocate for themselves and she felt they didnt realize they were being exploited.

I wouldnt say that was necessarily (the) intention of management by any means, but its definitely a consequence of just working with a younger staff and not knowing how to advocate for them appropriately, said Rebeka Mendelsohn, 22, a senior at the University of Vermont.

The Acton, Massachusetts, native likes working at the ice cream shop near where Ben & Jerry's was founded. One issue she wants addressed is training to help the staff cope with customers' mental health crises and respond to other critical incidents when managers aren't around.

The so-called scoopers submitted the petition needed to hold a union election to the National Labor Relations Board on Monday. Brisack hoped the election would be held soon.

Mendelsohn said she would support union efforts at other Ben & Jerry's locations, especially the factory and retail shop in Waterbury, Vermont.

I would love to see all Vermont Ben and Jerrys unionized, if not far beyond that, she said. I definitely hope that this can be a catalyst event because I think its a really logical next step and being like a socially conscious company.

The company says its products are distributed in 35 countries.

Founded in 1978, but currently owned by consumer goods conglomerate Unilever, Ben & Jerrys has not shied away from social causes. While many businesses tread lightly in politics for fear of alienating customers, the ice cream maker, which sells its products across the world, has taken the opposite approach, often espousing progressive causes.
NEW YORK (AP)  Stocks that traded heavily or had substantial price changes Tuesday:

Goldman Sachs Group Inc., down $5.77 to $333.91.

The investment bank's first-quarter revenue fell short of Wall Street forecasts.

Douglas Dynamics Inc., down 74 cents to $29.09.

The snowplow maker gave investors a disappointing financial update following a winter with below-average snowfall.

Bellus Health Inc., up $7.18 to $14.44.

GSK is buying the biopharmaceutical company for about $2 billion.

Lockheed Martin Corp., up $11.77 to $501.41.

The aerospace and defense company reported strong first-quarter financial results.

Mercantile Bank Corp., down 74 cents to $28.75.

The holding company for Mercantile Bank of Michigan reported encouraging first-quarter financial results, though deposits edged lower.

XCel Brands Inc., down 4 cents to 62 cents.

The brand management company reported a bigger fourth-quarter loss than Wall Street expected.

Bank of New York Mellon Corp., up 66 cents to $44.89.

The investment bank's first-quarter profit met analysts' forecasts.

Southwest Airlines Co., down 25 cents to $32.06.

The airline's departures were held up nationwide because of an intermittent technical problem.
HARTFORD  Kelly Kirkley-Bey, a long-time Democratic political insider with a checkered past at City Hall, is back on the job.

In this case, the job is a new one, created by her former boss, Hartford City Council President Maly Rosado.

The $50,000-per-year community liaison position was not publicly advertised and the city council was not required to vote on the hiring, according to Rosado.

Rosado said others were considered for the job, but did not provide further details.

When asked whether the job is a newly created position, Rosado said, "community outreach is a key element of every city council staffer and therefore this position is merely an extension of the existing mission of the council staff."

Rosado said a key to governance is listening to the community's concerns and responding in real time with solutions or alternatives.

"In her first week, Ms. Kirkley-Bey has been a critical element in working to address the chronic flooding in parts of north Hartford. Her experience and familiarity with community members make her a trusted advocate for those impacted residents," Rosado said. "In the coming weeks and months, she will be auditing issues such as absentee landlords, home ownership security for our seniors, and ensuring residents are aware of the many nutritional plus programs available to them."

Kirkley-Bey, who is a spokesperson for the Democratic Town Committee's 1st District, did not respond to a request for comment.

In 2017, Kirkley-Bey was the defendant in a sexual harassment lawsuit brought by city public works employee Kenneth Blue, who accused her of making unwanted sexual advances. The state lawsuit was settled in 2019 and a judge dismissed a federal complaint related to the case against Kirkley-Bey that year, records show.

Rosado, who kept Kirkley-Bey on her staff even though then-Council President rJo Winch fired her in 2019, said she has no concerns about the past.

Kirkley-Bey had been working with the state Department of Public Health through a grant from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to create COVID pop-up testing clinics since 2020.

"The lawsuit arising from alleged issues six years ago was litigated and resolved in Ms. Kirkley-Beys favor," Rosdao said. "Her decades of community involvement, including a recent stint with the Centers for Disease Control in addressing the COVID outbreak make her an important asset for community engagement."

City Council member Josh Michtom said he was not consulted about the position and believes it was created at Rosado's discretion.
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WILMINGTON, Del. (AP)  Fox News agreed Tuesday to pay Dominion Voting Systems nearly $800 million to avert a trial in the voting machine company's lawsuit that would have exposed how the network promoted lies about the 2020 presidential election.

The stunning settlement emerged just as opening statements were supposed to begin, abruptly ending a case that had embarrassed Fox News over several months and raised the possibility that network founder Rupert Murdoch and stars such as Tucker Carlson and Sean Hannity would have to testify publicly.

The truth matters. Lies have consequences, Dominion lawyer Justin Nelson told reporters outside a Delaware courthouse after Superior Court Judge Eric Davis announced the deal.

Outside of the $787.5 million promised to Colorado-based Dominion, it was unclear what other consequences Fox would face. Fox acknowledged in a statement the courts rulings finding certain claims about Dominion to be false, but no apology was offered.

We are hopeful that our decision to resolve this dispute with Dominion amicably, instead of the acrimony of a divisive trial, allows the country to move forward from these issues, Fox said. Its lawyers and representatives offered no other comment or details about the settlement.

Asked by a reporter whether there was anything to this other than money," Dominion CEO John Poulos did not answer.

The deal is a significant amount of money even for a company the size of Fox. It represents about one-quarter of the $2.96 billion the company reported earning last year before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization  a figure often used to approximate a company's cash flow.

The settlement also follows a $965 million judgment issued last year against Alex Jones by a Connecticut jury for spreading false conspiracy theories about the Sandy Hook school massacre.

Coupled with other lawsuits in the pipeline, the agreement shows there is a real financial risk for conservative media that traffic in conspiracy theories. What remains unknown is how much of a deterrent this will be. Even as the Dominion case loomed this spring, Fox's Tucker Carlson aired his alternate theories about what happened at the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection.

Dominion had sued Fox for $1.6 billion, arguing that the top-rated news outlet damaged the company's reputation by peddling phony conspiracy theories that claimed its equipment switched votes from former President Donald Trump to Democrat Joe Biden. Davis, in an earlier ruling, said it was CRYSTAL clear that none of the allegations about Dominion aired on Fox by Trump allies were true.

Dominion set out to prove in the lawsuit that Fox acted with malice in airing allegations that it knew to be false, or with reckless disregard for the truth. It presented volumes of internal emails and text messages that showed Fox executives and personalities saying they knew the accusations were untrue, even as the falsehoods were aired on programs hosted by Maria Bartiromo, Lou Dobbs and Jeannine Pirro.

Records released as part of the lawsuit showed that Fox aired the claims in part to win back viewers who were fleeing the network after it correctly called hotly contested Arizona for Democrat Joe Biden on election night. One Fox Corp. vice president called them MIND BLOWINGLY NUTS.

During a deposition, Murdoch testified that he believed the 2020 election was fair and had not been stolen from Trump.

Fox knew the truth, Dominion argued in court papers. It knew the allegations against Dominion were outlandish and crazy and ludicrous and nuts. Yet it used the power and influence of its platform to promote that false story.

Several First Amendment experts said Dominions case was among the strongest they had ever seen. But there was real doubt about whether Dominion would be able to prove to a jury that people in a decision-making capacity at Fox could be held responsible for the networks actions.

Dominion's Nelson called the settlement a tremendous victory and noted that there are six more lawsuits pending regarding election claims.

We settled because it was about accountability, Nelson said in an interview. Our goals were to make sure that there was accountability for the lies, and to try to make our client right. And we accomplished both goals.

It's hard to tell what the deal will mean financially for Dominion. The company would not provide its most recent earnings, saying the figures were not public.

In the weeks leading up to the trial, Davis significantly narrowed Foxs potential line of defense, including nixing the networks argument that it was merely airing newsworthy allegations. Newsworthiness is not a defense against defamation, he said.

In a March 31 ruling, he pointedly called out the network for airing falsehoods while noting that bogus election claims still persist more than two years after Trump lost his bid for reelection.

The statements at issue were dramatically different than the truth, Davis said in that ruling. In fact, although it cannot be attributed directly to Foxs statements, it is noteworthy that some Americans still believe the election was rigged.

In its defense, Fox said it was obligated to report on a president who claimed that he had been cheated out of reelection.

We never reported those to be true, Fox lawyer Erin Murphy said. All we ever did was provide viewers the true fact that these were allegations that were being made.

Dominion had sued both Fox News and its parent, Fox Corp, and said its business had been significantly damaged. Fox said the company grossly overestimated its losses, before agreeing to pay about half of what Dominion had asked for.

In a 1964 case involving The New York Times, the U.S. Supreme Court limited the ability of public figures to sue for defamation. The court ruled that plaintiffs needed to prove that news outlets published or aired false material with actual malice  knowing such material was false or acting with a reckless disregard for whether or not it was true.

That has provided news organizations with stout protection against libel judgments. Yet the nearly six-decade legal standard has come under attack by some conservatives in recent years, including Trump and Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida, who have argued for making it easier to win a libel case.

The larger importance of the settlement ... is that the high level of protection for news media in a defamation case remains intact for now, said Doreen Weisenhaus, an instructor of media law at Northwestern University.

In documents released in recent months, Fox executives and anchors discussed how not to alienate the audience, many of whom believed Trumps claims of fraud despite no evidence to back them up. Foxs Tucker Carlson suggested a news reporter be fired for tweeting a fact check debunking the fraud claims.

Some of the exhibits were simply embarrassing, such as scornful behind-the-scenes opinions about Trump, whose supporters form the core of the networks viewers. Text exchanges revealed as part of the lawsuit show Carlson declaring, I hate him passionately, and saying that we are very, very close to being able to ignore Trump most nights.

Fox News announced the settlement on Neil Cavutos afternoon news show. Its a done deal, he said. Its a settlement and for at least Fox, it appears to be over.

But Foxs legal problems may not be over. It still faces a defamation lawsuit from another voting technology company, Smartmatic. Its lawyer, Erik Connolly, said Tuesday that Dominions litigation exposed some of the misconduct and damage caused by Foxs disinformation campaign. Smartmatic will expose the rest.

___ Associated Press writers Jennifer Peltz in New York and Nicholas Riccardi in Denver contributed to this report.

___

The Associated Press receives support from several private foundations to enhance its explanatory coverage of elections and democracy. See more about APs democracy initiative here. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
Ari Asters Beau Is Afraid is a supersized, fitfully amusing, self-important tale of fear and loathing. As the title announces, its protagonist, Beau Wassermann  a terminal sad-sack played by the invariably watchable Joaquin Phoenix  is anxious, well, about everything. He seems to have good reason, given the chaos and violence churning outside his apartment. Then again, the tumult may be all in his head. Beau has issues, you soon learn, and hes an unstable narrative presence, which makes him an ideal vessel for an Ari Aster creep-out.

Outwardly, Beau Is Afraid seems to be a departure for Aster, whose first two features center on horrific happenings and some seriously bad relationships. In his first of these, Hereditary, a family is destroyed (and revived) by its witchy past; in his follow-up, Midsommar, a young, foolish couple travels with friends to a pastoral corner of Sweden, where they become chew toys for a murderous pagan cult. In both, Aster shrewdly draws on horror-film conventions  his abuse of the human head has become a kind of authorial signature  though the sense of ambiguity that he cooks up in them owes more to the art house than it does to the uncanny.

Beau Is Afraid Rated R: language and themes Running times: 159 minutes Where: Opens April 21 throughout Houston  (out of 5) See More Collapse

In Hereditary and Midsommar, Aster meticulously peels back the ostensibly ordinary surface of the world, its patina of normalcy, to reveal the annihilating malevolence beneath it. By contrast, all the icky, nasty stuff is right out in the open in Beau Is Afraid, which over three long, eventful hours tracks its protagonist as he struggles to visit his mother, a pop-Freudian gargoyle named Mona (Patti LuPone, ferocious and amusingly outsized). He makes it to her house, though only after a series of adventures that take him from the horrors of the unnamed city where he lives to a suburban asylum and then to a shadowy forest and beyond.

Aster likes wowing viewers as much as he likes scaring them, and he does both with visual polish, a firm grasp on his craft, stories that have ample interpretive leeway and a pitiless attitude toward his characters; you learn to never become attached to anyone in his movies. In Beau Is Afraid, Aster changes things up by making Beau difficult to cozy up to. A blur of a man with a soft middle, thinning hair and a bearing that oscillates between panic and resignation, Beau doesnt resemble the typical American movie hero: He isnt nice, appealing, attractive or all that engaging, and he lacks apparent interests, ambition and deep purpose.

Despite Phoenixs natural charisma and obvious commitment to the role, his headspace proves to be a claustrophobic, assaultive, grindingly downbeat and finally enervating place to spend three hours. Its a journey; midway, it becomes a slog, one thats framed by two major life events and incorporates some creepy flashbacks, as well as an especially uneasy dream. The bulk of the story, though, involves Beaus experiences in four externally distinct yet similarly ominous settings: his chaotic and violent urban neighborhood; an outwardly nice yet creepy suburban home he visits; an idyllic if dangerous forest where hes welcomed by a theater troupe; and, finally, the lavish home-unsweet-home of the monstrous Mona.

The movies liveliest, most visually engaging section is the urban hellscape: a sweeping, intricately staged, choreographed and shot interlude that comes across like a parody of commonly voiced conservative views on cities. Here, the world that Beau experiences beyond his bleak, spare apartment is indeed a lawless society, even if its hyperbolic flourishes swing between the ominous and the cartoonish. Its ugly, but it does pop. And while a naked, knife-wielding killer stalking the streets not far from a prone dead body is winkingly ridiculous, this maniac also slides his blade into Beaus body. Not everything appears to be in his head, after all.

Beau Is Afraid has been built for maximum admiration. And certainly theres much to respect about Asters filmmaking and how he coordinates the movies many fast-whirring parts to make another horror show with inner and outer head trauma  one that owes something to Charlie Kaufmans Synecdoche, New York and a great deal to Asters regular cinematographer, Pawel Pogorzelski, as well as to some vivid supporting performances. (Parker Posey enters late as an old friend while Amy Ryan and an outstanding Nathan Lane have fun as sinisterly helpful suburbanites.)

Yet despite these attractions and in spite of Phoenixs aura and his focus  and how he plays with the character, opening Beau up a wee bit with flickers of yearning and teasingly humanizing fissures  it is tough to care about a mouse who matters so much less to the filmmaker than the shiny mousetrap where hes imprisoned you both.
Conroe has fired Convention and Visitors Bureau Director Shannon Overby and assistant Jodi Willard, less than a month after Overby filed a harassment claim against a council member that the city later found to have no merit.

City officials declined to release specific details leading to the action.

Nancy Mikeska, assistant city manager and director of community development, said the terminations were in line with a new direction for the city's convention and visitors bureau.

On YourConroeNews.com: Montgomery County may have to pay $1.3M to keep using 7 acres it already owns for forensic center

The city has made a change in our convention visitors bureau staff to address a more positive visitors center appeal, said Mikeska, who oversees the city's human resources department. We want to promote Conroe and welcome visitors to our beautiful city and feel both are important.

Overby and Willard were hired in 2017 and terminated April 11.

During a workshop meeting April 12, Council member Marsha Porter asked staff to make changes to the citys personnel policies after Overby filed a harassment claim against Porter March 20.

Our HR department investigated and found it had no merit, Porter said.

Porters recommended changes include a form to be signed detailing the behavior of a person filing a complaint and the person named in the complaint while it is being investigated by staff.

HR Director Andre Houser said the complaint did not provide any information that Porter had done anything to violate any city policy or federal laws regarding harassment.

There was also no allegation of contact between (Porter) and (Overby), Houser said.

Porter said she never had any one-on-one meetings with Overby and never communicated with Overby or CVB staff by text or email.

It was all based on hearsay, Porter said of the complaint.

Reorganization of staff, moving departments

Earlier this year, city council reorganized its staff following the termination of former City Administrator Paul Virgadamo Jr. and the resignations of former Director of Finance Steve Williams and former Director of Capital Improvements and Transportation Tommy Woolley.

The reorganization included moving some departments to different offices, Mikeska said.

The entire city council decided to transition the first floor of the Conroe Tower into a visitors center, Mikeska said. When staff cannot embrace the councils vision in a positive and encouraging manner, changes have to be made.

Having CVB staff manage visitors to City Hall has been part of the citys reorganization plan. According to information from the city, dozens of visitors come to City Hall daily for various reasons.

It is sad to see, when a need arises, an entire staff find fault, place blame and work with such a negative attitude, Porter said.

Overby could not be reached for comment.

City Administrator Gary Scott said the city is in the process of auditing the CVBs use of hotel occupancy tax funds as due diligence regarding Overbys termination. He said the city is currently doing a nationwide search to replace Overby.

We feel the positions serve important purposes and we will seek to fill them with experienced individuals that want to serve our thriving city and citizens, Scott said.

According to the Texas State Comptroller, hotel owners, operators or managers must collect state hotel occupancy tax from their guests who rent a room or space in a hotel costing $15 or more each day. The tax applies not only to hotels and motels but also to bed and breakfasts, condominiums, apartments and houses. Local hotel taxes apply to sleeping rooms costing $2 or more each day.

Conroe's hotel occupancy tax rate is 7 percent of net receipts. Those funds must be used for promoting the city and can be used for events and festivals.

Having CVB staff manage visitors to City Hall has been part of the citys reorganization plan. According to information from the city, dozens of visitors come to City Hall daily for various reasons.

Mikeska said Porters recommendations for personnel changes will be reviewed by staff and revisited at a later date.
Conroe ISD will keep the novel "Ramona Blue" -- which chronicles a teenager struggling with her sexuality, a pregnant sister and poverty -- on library shelves following a hearing Tuesday night.

In a 5-2 vote, trustees upheld the decision by the district's book reconsideration committee to keep the book by Julie Murphy in high school libraries. Any junior high libraries with the book will send their copies to the high school in its feeder zone.

Trustees Misty Odenweller and Tiffany Nelson opposed the decision, saying that while the book had redeeming social value, their votes were based on the mature content of the book and that a parent has the right to decide if they want their child to have access to that material.

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In November, Alex Harris requested the reconsideration committee review the book based on the sexual content and Ramonas struggle with her sexuality. Harris does not have any children in Conroe ISD schools.

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Ramona Blue is the third book Harris has challenged. He also challenged The Handmaids Tale by Margaret Atwood and All Boys Arent Blue by George M. Johnson.

Both were removed from district library collections for not meeting the districts selection criteria for instructional resources and library materials.

CISD spokeswoman Sarah Blakelock said Harris also has challenged district textbooks Texas Biology, published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt in 2015 and Aquatic Science, published by McGraw Hill in 2014.

Blakelock said those reconsideration requests are pending.

During Tuesday's hearing, Harris said there is a growing movement with young adult literature that is focused on sexual content and sexual orientation.

This is a movement that is operating in our nation that is coming to indoctrinate our children and desensitize to sex, Harris said. That is the force we are battling. Thats the agenda and that is what is wrong with this book. The message is youve got to figure out your identity. Youve got to figure out your orientation.

CISD Director of Information Services Jared Lambert upheld the committees decision to keep the book in high school libraries.

I submit in this case, removal is inappropriate, Lambert said during the hearing Tuesday. The book has redeeming social values for minors, including many (students) in this district.

Ramona Blue," Lambert said, is a story of struggle, survival and hope where the character must determine responsibilities to their families, options for their future and college.

It is my opinion the reconsideration committee was correct in its decision, Lambert said. I do not find the work to be obscene or harmful.

Board President Skeeter Hubert said the sexual content in the book is moderate.

I saw just a tremendous amount of redeeming qualities (in the book), Hubert said.

The hearing comes three months after the board upheld a decision by reconsideration committee to keep the coming-of-age novel "The Perks of Being a Wallflower" on high school library shelves but agreed to pull the book from classroom curriculum.

The district reconsideration committee also is reviewing Sunny Side Up by Jennifer Holm.

Sunny Side Up is a graphic novel about a young girl who is sent to Florida to spend the summer with her grandfather and has flashbacks to months before when she and her family watched her teenage brother struggle with substance abuse.

The board's decision on Tuesday is the third step of the district's process for books brought to the committee.

The committee first reviews the book and makes a decision. If the person seeking to remove the book disagrees with that decision, it is reviewed and a decision is made to uphold or overturn it. If that second decision is appealed, the issue goes before the school board for a final review.
When Patty Allegra-Babcock wants to use her food stamps, she has to cross town borders. She lives in quiet and tree-covered Pomfret, in a part of northeastern Connecticut where there are no stores that accept food stamps.

The nearest grocery store that accepts her benefits is a Walmart, miles east in Putnam. But Allegra-Babcock doesnt have a car, so she relies on friends and family to drive her around.

From where I live, closest [grocery store] is probably a good 15 to 20 minutes, traffic willing, she said. Usually, I would have to wait until somebody is available. You gotta work around peoples schedules.

Allegra-Babcock isnt alone. Out of more than half a million food stamp recipients in the state, nearly 3,800 live in towns where there are no retailers that accept this form of payment.

Food stamps, handled by the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, have long provided financial assistance to low-income families and individuals. Depending on income and family size, residents get a fixed monthly amount to buy nutritious food in approved stores.

Most of the towns that dont have food stamp retailers are in rural parts of the state, adding to the long list of challenges for people who live in these communities.

To remedy the issue, the legislature will consider House Bill 6854, which would create the Office of the Food Access Advocate. This office would support food insecurity programs and community-led efforts, provide an informational hotline and manage food insecurity data, among other things. It would also provide tax breaks for certain grocery stores opening in underserved areas.

This bill isnt just targeted at fixing the issues faced by food stamp recipients. It aims to help the communities in food deserts.

Food deserts are census tract areas in which at least 100 households are located more than one-half mile from the nearest supermarket and have no vehicle access; or at least 500 people, or 33% of the population, live more than 20 miles from the nearest supermarket, regardless of vehicle availability, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

An analysis of federal data by CTInsider found that 8% of the states census tracts could be considered a food desert.

The role of community markets

For years, the absence of incentives or a state office dedicated to food insecurity left community markets to fill the gap.

Connecticut Foodshare, a statewide nonprofit that supports various local partners with financial assistance and resources, has been at the forefront of reducing food insecurity in the state. They have partnerships with more than 500 organizations, including one near where Allegra-Babcock lives.

That organization is called the Thompson Ecumenical Empowerment Group, a nonprofit that provides community support and resources such as diaper banks, clothing vouchers and scholarships.

One of its services includes various community markets powered by local donations. Open every day of the week in at least one of their locations in Pomfret, Woodstock and Thompson, TEEG provides food and beverage options to residents in need at no cost, regardless of whether they have food stamps. TEEG says that on average, they serve about 250 to 300 families a month between all three locations.

The cost of food went up significantly. That's why we try really hard to get people to come in and to have a lot of those commodities that are quite more expensive  frozen meat, eggs, dairy, frozen vegetables  so that we can supplement that SNAP aspect, said Chelsea French, community programs manager at TEEG.

Since Allegra-Babcock only receives $24 worth of food stamps a month, down from over $100 monthly before the reductions, and social security income that barely covers her other expenses, she goes to the community market for fresh produce and meats.

You gotta pay your bills. The lights, the phone, mortgage, stuff like that. I live from paycheck to paycheck, basically, Allegra-Babcock said.

To get to the community market, though, she still has to rely on somebody to give her a lift, since she doesnt have a car.

This is a challenge faced by more than 53,000 households in the state that receive food stamps and dont have access to a vehicle, according to U.S. Census estimates. For rural parts of the state, where homes and retailers are more widely disbursed than in urban areas, not having a car can hinder access to food and other essential services.

The current bus service in the area, Northeastern Connecticut Transit District, is not as reliable and consistent as other bus services around the state, residents say. It has fixed stops, and residents can request deviated pick-ups ahead of time, but shuttle arrivals are usually spaced by over an hour.

They'll come pick you up, and it may be hours before they come pick you back up at the grocery store, which means you can't get anything perishable or frozen, because you don't know when you're going to get back, said French.

Some retailers allow food stamps to be used for online purchases, which can then be delivered through partnerships with Instacart. Last year, the U.S. Department of Agriculture provided $5 million in support to the National Grocers Association Foundation to help expand the number of retailers that accept food stamps online.

In extenuating circumstances, TEEG staff have resorted to personal food deliveries to people's homes, primarily seniors and persons with disabilities.

In some cases, the issue isn't transportation. It's the quality of the food stamp stores.

Carl Asikainen, food systems coordinator at TEEG, said that even though some towns may have food stamp retailers, they are not always the best option due to lack of fresh and nutritious products.

This is the case in the nearby town of Thompson. There are four food stamp vendors: a gas station, a Dollar General and two small convenience stores.

We've got Dollar General, but we know the food quality there is nothing fresh, right? ... We want people to have better options, said Asikainen.

But even if a food stamp grocery store were willing to open up in some of these areas, they have to follow local zoning regulations.

In Pomfret, where Allegra-Babcock is from, different districts allow certain types of retailers to open shop.

Space for a supermarket or grocery store is limited.

Ryan Brais, the assistant planner and zoning officer for the town of Pomfret, said that a supermarket opening in the town is unlikely due to population, geographic location and lack of public sewer and water. Regardless, Brais said, the town will always consider applications for zone change and development.

"By nature, commissions do not typically take the initiative to add commercial areas to the map after the initial creation of the zoning map. They wait for someone to apply to rezone their land. The desire to rezone residential property to commercial is driven by commercial interest. Due to the town's rural nature, there have been very few requests to rezone property since zoning was adopted in 2003," Brais said.

However, agricultural retail such as farmers markets, where more than 50% of the products are grown on site, are possible in most of the town.

Cathy Smith, senior center coordinator for TEEG in Pomfret, said a farmers market that accepted food stamps would be beneficial.

"It's all about getting the fresher food, the organic food, the gluten-free food. It's harder for us to get all of that even in our markets," said Smith.

Allegra-Babcock does have a market store across the street from where she lives, but they don't accept food stamps.

"I would love to have something set up where Patty could go down to the local farm over here and utilize her SNAP," said Smith.

Local farmers markets still face financial and administrative barriers in beginning to accept food stamps.

A survey of 134 farmers in Alabama found that farmers markets frequently cited the following as barriers when attempting to set up their food stamp program: "lack of internet access, increased burden for processing payments, increased need for bookkeeping, limited availability of information about the application process and payment system, limited support from the market for completing the application, a small customer base and limited number of SNAP clientele," according to the survey.

And those barriers would only be faced after a retailer meets initial qualifications to become a food stamp retailer.

To qualify, a store must have a certain amount of staple foods, which do not include hot or prepared foods, or more than half of its sales must be from staple foods. Once that criteria is met, vendors must then purchase equipment that has the ability to accept food stamps and be subject to random inspections.

Barriers to becoming a food stamp vendor are not currently being addressed in the legislature.

Legislation under consideration

As it stands under House Bill 6854, the only grocery stores that would be able to receive the tax incentives when opening in food deserts are those that have "labor peace agreements" with a labor union. This type of agreement is not a collective bargaining agreement where workers are legally unionized. Instead, it is an agreement where an employer and a labor union agree to be peaceful in case the labor union attempts to organize the workers. A labor union agrees to not cause economic disruptions against the business, such as boycotts or work stoppages, while an employer agrees to remain neutral, allow the union access to employees and guarantee the union the right to be the collective bargaining representative of the employees.

On March 23, the Human Services Committee voted the bill to the House to be further discussed before it is sent to the finance and appropriations committees.

A group of legislators from the Human Services Committee unsuccessfully attempted to amend the bill so grocery stores wouldn't be required to have a labor peace agreement with a labor union.

Sen. Lisa Seminara, a ranking member of the committee, argued in the meeting that requiring retailers to have a labor peace agreement creates a roadblock.

"We want to solve the problem of food insecurity and food deserts, but now we're going to have a roadblock because the only people that can apply for ... this incentive is if you're in a labor [peace] agreement," said Seminara.

Sen. Matt Lesser, one of the legislators opposed to the amendment, argued that the amendment would expand the scope of the bill, making it costlier and thus harder to push through the Finance Committee. He also said that the labor peace provision is in the state's interest.

"We don't want to have potential construction projects derailed by labor strikes ... I'm hopeful we'll have a compromise on that labor language, because I think it's important, but also, we want to make sure that people can still access the tax credit," said Lesser.

Heading to the House first to be further discussed, it still faces the finance and appropriations committees before votes in the full chambers.

Two other bills regarding food security have also made their way out of the Health Services Committee.

The committee approved a bill that would change the way food stamp benefits are given out to ensure that recipients can access food. Instead of giving everyone their benefits at the same time, the bill would give benefits to different recipients at different times during the month. This bill doesn't split the payments; everyone still gets one disbursement. A different bill also passed in the committee and headed to the Appropriations Committee would create a task force to study the elderly nutrition program and designate $2 million towards it.
Environmentalists were shocked in early March when they discovered construction vehicles leveling a stretch of protected wetlands in southern New Jersey.

They were even more surprised to learn that the operation was being carried out by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.

An announcement from the agency's fish and wildlife division explained that the development was meant to create a habitat for the American woodcock, a game bird. But bulldozing acres of wetlands and forest to do so violated New Jersey's laws protecting wetlands, among the most stringent in the nation, and threatened other endangered species.

"They did it by picking pretty much the worst location they could have done," said Joe Arsenault, an ecologist and environmental consultant who inspected the damaged wetlands with members of the New Jersey Conservation Foundation.

The foundation and three other organizations decried the Department of Environmental Protection's development in a March 6 open letter to the body responsible for enforcing New Jersey's wetland protections - the Department of Environmental Protection.

On April 6, the department's bureau in charge of land use enforcement agreed that the project broke state law and issued a notice of violation to the department's own fish and wildlife division.

The division must submit a plan within 30 days to restore the wetlands and could face further punishment pending an assessment, the department said.

Advocates said they're still pressing for answers on how the clearing of a cherished New Jersey preserve was ever approved - though they said they're glad, if a little bemused, that the department is holding itself accountable for the miscue.

"You would think that the division that was responsible for [wetlands] would have understood," Arsenault said. "But the left hand doesn't know what the right hand's doing."

The project centered on the Glassboro Wildlife Management Area, a 2,300-acre stretch of dense, swampy forest between Philadelphia and Atlantic City that's popular with birdwatchers, hunters and hikers.

The site carries a unique history, Arsenault said. Unlike most of southern New Jersey, the Glassboro forest had never been cleared or tilled for agriculture.

That changed after the fish and wildlife division announced a habitat construction project in February. The division planned to create 21 acres of meadowland in Glassboro to support the American woodcock and the planting of flowers to attract pollinators.

The announcement said the habitat would provide needed support for the American woodcock, which is declining in population along the Eastern Seaboard. Arsenault and his peers questioned the decision to create that habitat in the middle of a protected forest.

"It was a failure," said Tom Gilbert, co-director of the New Jersey Conservation Foundation. "If they had really done their homework, they would have understood what was on the site."

Environmentalists discovered in March that the creation of the habitat entailed the destruction of acres of wetland. Those who visited found trees cut down - their stumps bulldozed - and hills and ponds leveled by heavy equipment, according to the letter later sent to the department.

"It was complete decimation of the land," said Jaclyn Rhoads, assistant executive director of the Pinelands Preservation Alliance, a New Jersey nonprofit that co-signed the letter.

More alarming, advocates added, was the department's seeming ignorance of the Freshwater Wetlands Protection Act, a 1987 state law that forbids most development on New Jersey wetlands - and tasks the Department of Environmental Protection with shielding them.

"People are honestly scratching their heads and wondering how this could have happened," Gilbert said. "It's really hard to fathom."

The Department of Environmental Protection suspended the project on March 10, a spokesperson said. On April 6, the department reprimanded itself.

The department's land use enforcement bureau issued a violation to the fish and wildlife division for clearing roughly 14 acres of wetlands classified as having "exceptional resource value." The cleared wetlands included the habitat of two birds, the barred owl and red-shouldered hawk, that are deemed threatened or endangered in the state.

The fish and wildlife division will also wait to see whether it faces further punishment. Fines for violating the Freshwater Wetlands Protection Act can exceed hundreds of thousands of dollars, Arsenault said - though it's unclear how the Department of Environmental Protection would impose the penalty on itself.

"How do you fine yourself?" Arsenault said. "Reach in one pocket, go to the other?"
A recent lawsuit related to working overtime through the use of WeChat has aroused heated discussion, prompting legal professionals to call on people to increase their awareness and learn to protect their interests in this fast-changing era. Employees will have the right to ask for overtime pay if they work through instant messaging platforms outside of the workplace or of working hours for a long period, but they should learn to document the evidence, experts said. The remarks were made after a Beijing court recently ordered an employer to pay 30,000 yuan ($4,400) to one of its employees after it identified a long-term pattern of working on WeChat as a form of overtime. The employee signed a contract from April 2019 to March 2022 with a technology company, under which she was required to be responsible for product operation and contacting clients to expand business. In addition to frequently working late at the company, the employee said that she was also required to keep working on WeChat during holidays and weekends without overtime pay. The employer did not view replying to clients' messages and answering their questions online as overtime. Instead, they viewed it as part of the plaintiff's job, simple communication, which had no bearing on the non-fixed work-hour system previously agreed by both sides in the contract. This system is designed to accommodate employees whose working hours are difficult to measure. Under this system, employees are generally paid as salaried employees. This salary is a fixed amount paid per period, usually monthly. The two sides were unable to compromise, so the employee sued the employer, and offered her WeChat records as evidence. She claimed that she had worked more than 500 hours of overtime on days off and demanded overtime pay from the company. After the trial, the Beijing No 3 Intermediate People's Court ruled in favor of the plaintiff, noting that her use of social media during off-hours and rest days went beyond simple communication. "In other words, the work was fixed and periodic rather than temporary or accidental, so it should be identified as overtime and deserves payment," the court said. It also pointed out that offering a non-fixed work-hour system requires written permission from the local labor administration, but that the company had not secured this. Based on the chat records provided by the plaintiff and considering her salary, efficiency, duration and content of her work during rest periods, the court decided on a figure of 30,000 yuan. "Working through social media and instant messaging tools has become more common in the rapidly developing internet era," said Xu Hao, a lawyer from Beijing Jingsh Law Firm. "Employees, especially those with flexible jobs or who are not required to be in an office or a fixed place to work, might find themselves subject to hidden overtime." Compared to traditional work, Xu agreed that it is difficult to calculate overtime duration and pay if someone is working on instant messaging platforms, but this "doesn't mean employers can take advantage of the flexibility to force employees to work". He called for employees to improve their legal awareness and to stand up for their interests through litigation or arbitration if employers violate the Labor Law. Under the law, employees should not work more than eight hours a day and no more than 44 hours a week on average, and they have the right to at least one day off every week. It further states that employers are permitted to extend working hours to meet production and business needs after negotiating with trade unions and employees. If it is necessary to extend working hours in particular circumstances, the extension should not exceed three hours a day to protect the health of employees, it said, clarifying that no more than 36 hours of overtime should be required a month. Zhao Zhanling, a lawyer with Yunjia Law Firm in Beijing, suggested that job seekers carefully read the law, and the overtime rules made by employers before starting a job, because a better understanding of both will help them determine whether employers are likely to violate them. He also said that some employers have specified situations that are identified as working overtime and how to apply for overtime pay in employee handbooks, "so reading the materials is essential for workers to know whether their legitimate rights are infringed". "Every employee should make a conscious effort to keep evidence of overtime, regardless of whether they have signed a non-fixed work-hour system agreement with their employers," said Li Zongsheng, deputy head of the Liaoning Lawyer Association, adding that it is a right granted and protected by the law. As the nature of work continues to evolve, employees should pay close attention to new job requirements, Li said, and suggested that they clarify every aspect of work, including their responsibilities and what circumstances classify as overtime, before they agree to take a job.
Pharmaceutical companies, among the most powerful interests in Washington, have mobilized against a pair of lower-court rulings restricting access to abortion pills that they contend go far beyond issues of reproductive health and pose a threat to the regulatory foundations of the U.S. drug industry.

The warnings - contained in friend-of-the-court advisory briefs filed Friday with the U.S. Supreme Court - are harshly critical of rulings this month by a U.S. District Court judge in Texas and a three-judge panel of the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals.

District Court Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk ruled on April 7 that the Food and Drug Administration should not have approved the abortion pill mifepristone in 2000, deciding that the FDA rushed the process and that the pill was unsafe. The 5th Circuit stayed part of Kacsymark's decision on Wednesday but agreed to overturn looser prescribing rules that the FDA adopted beginning in 2016.

The industry contends that by nullifying years of evidence-based regulations by the Food and Drug Administration, the two rulings would eviscerate FDA authority more broadly and undermine the legal underpinnings of U.S. pharmaceutical research and development.

The Biden administration, members of Congress, abortion rights groups, doctors, former FDA and Department of Justice officials and industry interests are urging the Supreme Court to block the lower-court rulings as an unacceptable interference in FDA approvals.

Investments in cutting-edge biotechnology fields aimed at cancer and other serious diseases could be subject to attacks in the courts if FDA's rulemaking is thrown open to court challenges, said executives who are urging the Supreme Court to put the orders on hold.

"While we may be talking about mifepristone today, we must understand that political motives could similarly attack many innovative and lifesaving biotherapeutics such as genetic medicines, cell therapies and even today's major advancements in mRNA vaccine technology," Reid Huber, a partner at Third Rock Ventures, a health care venture capital firm with offices in Boston and San Francisco, said in an email.

Huber is among scores of industry executives and business leaders who signed onto an amicus curiae brief before the Supreme Court. Former FDA and Department of Justice officials warned of widespread disruptions in separate briefs.

"Once you go down this road, you never know where it will lead," said Stephen Ostroff, an industry consultant who is a former acting commissioner and chief scientist at the FDA, said in an interview. "Once the courts make a decision that they understand the science better than the FDA does, we could see similar attempts to either get drugs onto the market or take drugs off the market that for some reasons someone doesn't like."

The leading industry group, the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, said in its brief to the court that drug companies and investors rely heavily on the FDA to guide how they bring drugs to market. It called Kacsmaryk's ruling that overturned the FDA's 2000 approval of mifepristone "an unprecedented assault on FDA's approval decisions."

The dire warnings illustrate the degree to which the U.S. health care industry is dependent on federal rules for its survival. The industry has spent decades lobbying White House administrations and Congress to shape the rules that govern FDA's approvals. The industry even pays for about 45 percent of the FDA annual budget via a system of user fees.

Without confidence that FDA's actions can withstand attacks from people dissatisfied with the outcome, tens of billions of dollars of investments a year could be in jeopardy, the industry said.

"Biopharmaceutical companies make enormous investments in drug development based on the reasonable expectation that once a drug product is approved finally by FDA under the statutory standards, barring emerging scientific data, it will be lawful and profitable to sell that product for an extended period in the United States," PhRMA said in its filing.

The Supreme Court is expected to decide as soon as Wednesday if it will put a temporary stay on the 5th Circuit decision until the full 5th Circuit decides the issue.

Danco, the manufacturer of brand-name mifepristone, in asking the Supreme Court for a stay, said the lower court rulings could require it to suspend distribution while it updated the label for its drug to reflect new, court-imposed restrictions.

GenBioPro, a generic producer of mifepristone that won approval in 2019, said in a friend-of-the-court brief the impact on its operations would be catastrophic. It said that would be forced to cease sale of mifepristone unless the 5th District ruling is stayed. The company said its pills account for about two thirds of the 500,000 annual medication abortions in the United States.

A brief filed Friday by the Biotechnology Innovation Organization, Washington's other major industry trade group, and dozens of companies and executives harshly criticized Kacsmaryk's decision to overturn the FDA's mifepristone approval.

"The court cast aside not only the voluminous scientific evidence FDA considered at the time of approval, but also nearly a quarter-century of subsequent data that FDA determined showed safe and effective use of mifepristone," they said. "In its place, the court relied on personal stories told by plaintiffs and cherry-picked, unreliable publications (including anonymous blog posts), many of which were not even submitted to FDA. The court then ruled that FDA was required to refuse to approve the [new drug application] based on the court's own nonscientific assessment of this alternative, incomplete record."

Attacking the FDA's actions was just one strategy of the antiabortion plaintiffs in the lower-court case. Another was citing the Comstock Act, an 1873 law that banned shipment in the mail of obscene materials as well as birth control products and items that could induce an abortion.

Kacsmaryk and the 5th Circuit panel agreed that the plain language of the Comstock Act, still on the books but not enforced in many decades, prohibits shipment of abortion pills.

A group of former Department of Justice officials - most of them former U.S. attorneys during the Clinton and Obama years in the White House - said in a brief before the Supreme Court the lower courts' reasoning was flawed. Decades of deliberations and interpretations by the courts, Congress and the executive confirms that Congress intended the Comstock Act to outlaw shipment of items that could induce an illegal abortion, not a legal one, the former officials said.

A group that opposes abortion, the American Center for Law and Justice, represented by lawyer Jay Sekulow, had filed the only brief by Monday afternoon that opposed a stay of the lower court rulings. The center disputed a DOJ Office of Legal Counsel opinion that said the Comstock Act only banned shipment of abortion pills if the abortion were illegal. The center contended the justices should look to the plain text of the Comstock's ban and not rely on court precedents and analysis cited by the Office of Legal Council.

The Office of Legal Council analysis, the center said in its brief, "rewrites the statute in the service of a pro-abortion agenda."

- - -

The Washington Post's Laurie McGinley contributed to this report.
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An emerging debate over plans to arm some George Washington University police officers on the D.C. campus near the White House shows enduring tensions over how best to protect college communities nationwide from gun violence.

On one side are administrators who argue that they need every possible tool to prevent mass shootings and respond to fast-moving threats. On the other are students and neighbors who are often suspicious of police and contend that an armed force would not make them feel safer.

"No guns for GWPD!" a crowd of students shouted Monday outside the residence of the university president, Mark S. Wrighton. More than 100 demonstrators - some with signs expressing views such as "Guns off my campus!" - had gathered at Kogan Plaza and marched to Wrighton's house in the Foggy Bottom neighborhood.

On Thursday, Wrighton had announced a plan to provide firearms to about 20 specially trained supervisors on a GWU police force that counts about 50 officers. The university, with more than 26,000 students, operates on two campuses in Northwest Washington and a third in Northern Virginia.

GWU is the largest university in the nation's capital, and its main campus is close to many federal agencies. Wrighton said the university felt compelled to provide at least some of its officers with firearms in light of numerous incidents across the country.

"While we are not aware of any heightened threat to our university, in recent years there have been too many tragic instances of mass gun violence in communities and on college campuses," Wrighton wrote in a statement. "In the past several months alone, we have noted with deep concern shooting incidents at educational institutions, including at Michigan State University, the University of Virginia, and an elementary school in Nashville."

In November, three U-Va. students were shot and killed and two wounded. A February shooting at Michigan State left three students dead and five wounded. Six people were slain in March in the mass shooting at the Nashville school.

Across the country, many campus and school-based police are armed. U-Va. and Michigan State campus police, for example, carry firearms. But policies elsewhere vary.

The issue intensified after the murder of George Floyd in 2020 cast a new spotlight on police abuse of people of color. But concerns about crime, especially in certain urban neighborhoods, are also running high as parents and students seek assurances that campuses will be secure.

Lawmakers have focused on D.C. crime in recent months. The city has recorded at least 200 homicides in each of the past two years, a mark last crossed in 2003, while the D.C. police force has been shrinking lately because of turnover.

In the nation's capital, police at Georgetown and American universities do not carry firearms. Georgetown said its officers carry batons and pepper spray. AU said its approach "encompasses physical security, active patrol by police, training the community, threat management and collaboration with local law enforcement when needed."

Police at Howard University and the University of the District of Columbia do carry firearms, according to Leroy James, director of public safety programs for the Consortium of Universities of the Washington Metropolitan Area. Catholic University said it also has armed officers.

James, a former Howard police chief, oversees a D.C.-based training academy for campus police. He said some universities don't see a need to arm their own police because they coordinate emergency response with D.C.'s Metropolitan Police Department. But with heightened scrutiny of mass shootings across the country, he said, policies on lethal force are often getting a second look. "The dialogue is continuing," James said.

Some GWU students are upset with the university's new policy. Victoria Freire, 22, a senior from Kennett Square, Pa., who attended the protest Monday, said she had been treated roughly by police a few years ago when she tried to deliver a petition to the previous GWU president. The student newspaper the GW Hatchet published video footage in 2020 that appeared to show Freire being pushed by an officer and falling down steps.

Freire, who is Latina and White, said she worries about how armed police will treat students of color. "A lot of those students are going to face the brunt of this," she said.

Jovanna Walker, 19, a sophomore from Boston, who is Black, said she is dubious of providing GWU police with guns. "Arming them will not make me feel any safer," she said at the protest.

Asked about the protest, GWU said it values "all of our stakeholders' perspectives." It added, in a statement: "Members of our community are expressing support, concerns, and ideas for implementation in a variety of ways. We will continue to provide opportunities for additional engagement as our implementation plans take shape."

- - -

The Washington Post's Peter Hermann contributed to this report.
TITUSVILLE, Fla. - Almost all day, Crosley Green had remained upbeat.

Even as his final hours of freedom ticked away Sunday, the 65-year-old called his return to prison a "vacation" and reassured his teary-eyed fiancee that their wedding would happen one day. He ate strawberry ice cream at midnight and vowed hours later, as he began a schedule packed with media interviews and visits from family and friends, to have his best day yet.

But when Green stood behind the lectern at the small church he had attended weekly since his release, he stifled a cry and turned away. He wiped his eyes with a tissue handed to him by the 7-year-old nephew who followed him everywhere. Then he soldiered on - just as he always did.

"I'm okay," he said. "I can do this; let me show y'all. Be strong with me. I'm in God's hands."

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The Floridian had spent 32 years in prison after being convicted in the 1989 killing of 21-year-old Charles "Chip" Flynn, whose ex-girlfriend said "a Black guy" kidnapped the two of them and shot Flynn. In 2021, a federal judge ordered Green's release after ruling that the prosecutor had withheld handwritten notes revealing deputies initially suspected someone else: the ex-girlfriend. Green, who always denied involvement in the killing, walked out of prison gray-haired, his children long since grown.

Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody (R) appealed, and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit reinstated the conviction, saying the withheld evidence wouldn't have been admissible in court. Just under two years after he was allowed out on house arrest, Green was ordered by a judge to turn himself in to the state Department of Corrections.

He surrendered at a Department of Corrections office in Orlando on Monday afternoon, the court-imposed deadline. His great-grandniece blew him a kiss, and Crosley caught it before turning to the front doors of the correction center and walking in.

Barring clemency or parole - two long-shot options his attorneys are still pursuing - he will spend the rest of his life in prison.

"I've never thought the system was perfect," said Keith Harrison of Washington-based Crowell & Moring, who has represented Green pro bono since 2008. "I don't think, though, I realized just how tough it is to correct the wrong."

But while Green's supporters rallied around him Sunday - joining him in prayer at church, attending a luncheon at a riverfront hotel and circulating a petition calling for him to be freed - a couple 10 miles away was adamant that the jury got it right all those years ago.

Kim Hallock Landers, the ex-girlfriend Flynn was with during the last hours of his life, said in some of her first public comments in years that she was "exhausted" after decades of re-litigating the case and having blame cast upon her.

"I'm tired of being beat down by the media," she said at her home in Titusville. "I'm sick of it. I testified to the truth. [Green] needs to go back to where he belongs."

She added: "I've been told I'm the one that did it. And I did not kill anybody."

Jeff Landers, who described Green as a "coldblooded killer," said his wife still wakes up screaming, reliving the night Flynn died.

According to the account the then-19-year-old woman gave police, she and Flynn spent the early morning hours of April 4, 1989, smoking marijuana and discussing their relationship while sitting in his Chevy pickup truck in Holder Park. Suddenly, while Flynn was relieving himself outside, a stranger appeared wielding a handgun.

Hallock said she grabbed Flynn's gun from the glove box and hid it under a pair of jeans. Meanwhile, the man ordered Flynn to his knees and demanded money, then tied his hands behind his back and forced him into the pickup. Still pointing the gun, he drove the couple to an orange grove.

As their assailant was yanking her out of the truck, Hallock said, she broke free. Flynn, hands still tied, got hold of the hidden gun. He fell to the ground while exiting the truck, then tried firing at the man. Seeing a chance to escape, Hallock jumped into the Chevy. She heard gunshots as she sped away, not stopping until she reached a friend's house three miles away and called 911.

After a half-hour of searching, Brevard County deputies came upon the crime scene. Flynn lay bloodied and facedown in the grove, his hands tied, a revolver five feet away.

"Get me out of here. I want to go home" was Flynn's only response when the deputies asked what had happened. By the time the ambulance arrived, he was dead, his killer unknown.

Investigators soon zeroed in on Green. Then 31, he had served time in prison after a 1977 armed robbery in New York. He had taken on a fatherly role in his family after his parents' deaths; everyone called him "Papa."

A police dog picked up the scent of shoe prints in Holder Park and tracked it to a house where Green sometimes stayed, authorities said. Two tipsters reported that he resembled a police sketch. When Hallock picked Green out of a lineup of six Black men, he was arrested.

At trial, three people who have since recanted testified that Green had confessed to the shooting. The all-white jury convicted Green of murder. A judge sentenced him to death.

"This is a case of a racial hoax: a situation where something bad happened, somebody said a Black guy did it, and they just went looking for a Black guy," Harrison said.

From behind bars, Green challenged his conviction and sentence. In 2009, after 19 years on death row, he was resentenced to life in prison.

He took his fight to the federal level five years later, petitioning the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida to overturn his conviction on the grounds that his constitutional rights were violated. Green's attorneys argued that prosecutor Chris White's handwritten notes from a conversation with the initial on-scene investigators could have led to a different verdict.

"Mark & Diane suspect girl did it, she changed her story couple times . . . she 1st said she tied his hands behind his back," the notes read.

In 2018, U.S. District Judge Roy Dalton of the Middle District of Florida ruled that the notes were "clearly material," adding that it was "difficult to conceive of information more material to the defense." He ordered the state to release or retry Green.

Moody's appeal kept him behind bars until 2021, when Dalton ordered that Green be let out on house arrest amid the coronavirus pandemic. Under a night sky, Green was released from prison and into the embraces of his family.

The relief would be short-lived. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit put Green's conviction back into effect in April last year, and when the U.S. Supreme Court in February declined to hear the case, Green was out of appeals. He learned last month that he would have to return to custody.

"I asked God, 'How long this time?'" he said. "How long would it be for this time?"

The past two years have been Green's closest brush with freedom in more than three decades. While on house arrest at his brother-in-law's place, an ankle monitor tracked his every move, ensuring that he didn't wander beyond approved locations: his full-time job in manufacturing, the grocery store, church.

Most of the time, Green couldn't go beyond the mailbox, but his large circle of family and friends could still drop by; he grew close with the youngest generation of Greens, including the nephew everyone said looked just like him.

And he found "one of the things I prayed for if I ever got out: to meet someone I could share my life with." Mutual acquaintances set him up with Katherine Spikes, a self-described "workaholic" who wasn't looking for anyone until she met Green.

The second time he called, they talked for the duration of her drive across the country to see family. On their first date, he asked her to pull her car into the driveway so he could open the door. Later, he picked out a ring over the phone.

Spikes said Sunday that she was trying to look at her fiance's return to prison the same way he was: a vacation with an unknown end date. But it wasn't easy.

"I worry about 5 o'clock, because that's the time he calls me," she said, starting to cry. "We figure out what we're going to eat for dinner, if 'Monday Night Raw' is coming on or 'Smackdown.' So it's a lot I have adjusted myself to, because I love him so much."

Green's attorneys insist they won't stop fighting until he's free, with Harrison saying that "if you're never going to give up, then any hurdle that you run into is just simply that. It's just a hurdle."

For now, Green said, he will walk back into prison with "no tears in my eyes," convinced that he can get through it again. And that, despite all the odds against him, it won't be forever.

"I know one thing," he said. "I believe I'm going to be free again. I got to believe that the good Lord is behind me and that I'm going to walk out those doors again."
EVERETT, Wash. (AP)  The man who fatally shot a police officer in Everett, Washington, last year was sentenced Monday to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Richard Rotter, 51, apologized during his sentencing for killing officer Dan Rocha, 41, in a Starbucks parking lot in Everett, about 30 miles (48 kilometers) north of Seattle, as Rocha tried to arrest him, the Daily Herald reported.

My sincere apologies to the Rocha family and my family and everyone this has affected, Rotter said. "I pray for everyones continued healing and restored peace. I ask you and everybody (to) please forgive me.

During sentencing, Snohomish County Superior Court Judge Bruce I. Weiss called the fatal shooting a brutal execution.

The courtroom was crowded with Everett police, the city's mayor and others.

Earlier this month, a jury found Rotter guilty of aggravated first-degree murder, unlawful gun possession, possession with the intent to manufacture or distribute methamphetamine, fentanyl and heroin, and attempting to elude police.

Rocha was on duty March 25, 2022, and waiting for a coffee when he saw Rocha moving guns between two cars in the parking lot, prosecutors said. Rotter, of Kennewick, Washington, had traveled to Everett, where he planned to buy a car, court documents said.

Rocha turned on his body camera and calmly engaged with Rotter, asking for his identification, according to court documents. Rocha learned Rotter had previous felony convictions and wasnt supposed to have guns, the documents say. He also learned that he had a warrant out for his arrest.

Rocha tried to take Rotter into custody, according to court documents, but Rotter shot Rocha five times with a handgun he had hidden in a shoulder holster. Rocha had done a pat-down of Rotters waistband but had not found Rotters firearm, according to court documents. Rocha died at the scene.

Rotter then fled in a car and was arrested nearby after causing a three-vehicle crash.

Rotters public defender, Natalie Tarantino, has said her client had no plan to kill, but that a combination of drug use and post-traumatic stress led him to shoot Rocha.

Court records show Rotter had been convicted previously of crimes, including about a dozen felonies, mostly in southeastern Washington. Many of those cases were related to illegal drugs and several involved eluding police, according to court records.

Rochas sister, Morgen Henry, said in court that her brother was dedicated, supportive and a natural protector.
SAN FRANCISCO - Israeli spyware maker NSO Group deployed at least three new "zero-click" hacks against iPhones last year, finding ways to penetrate some of Apple's latest software, researchers at Citizen Lab have discovered.

The attacks struck phones with iOS 15 and early versions of iOS 16 operating software, Citizen Lab said in a report Tuesday. The lab, based at the University of Toronto, shared its results with Apple, which has now fixed the flaws that NSO had been exploiting.

The attacks targeted human rights activists who were investigating the 2015 mass kidnapping of 43 student protesters in Mexico, other suspected military abuses, and the related government response, Citizen Lab said. Mexico has been a major NSO customer.

According to Citizen Lab, one of the attacks, in September 2022, coincided with a report by international experts challenging government evidence in the 2015 case and its interference with the investigation.

It's the latest sign of NSO's ongoing efforts to create spyware that penetrates iPhones without users taking any actions that allow it in. Citizen Lab has detected multiple NSO hacking methods in past years while examining the phones of likely targets, including human rights workers and journalists.

While it is unsettling to civil rights groups that NSO was able to come up with multiple new means of attack, it did not surprise them. "It is their core business," said Bill Marczak, a senior researcher at Citizen Lab.

"Despite Apple notifying targets, and the Commerce Department putting NSO on a blacklist, and the Israeli ministry cracking down on export licenses - which are all good steps and raising costs - NSO for the moment is absorbing those costs," Marczak said.

Given the financial and legal fights NSO is involved in, Marczak said it was an open question how long NSO could keep finding or buying new exploits that are effective.

As NSO's prominence has made it a symbol of government-level hacking, its repeated high-profile targeting has exposed it to researchers who are learning more of its tricks.

Working together and armed with new electronic evidence of attacks, Citizen Lab and Apple went back to old phones and found traces of other attack methods. That deeper knowledge will continue to grow, making future detections easier.

NSO spokesman Liron Bruck declined to say whether the company was behind the hacks or whether it had still more attacks that are equally effective. He faulted Citizen Lab for failing to disclose its underlying data.

"NSO adheres to strict regulation, and its technology is used by its governmental customers to fight terror and crime around the world," Bruck said by email.

It was unclear how many people were hacked with the newly discovered methods, and Citizen Lab declined to identify the ones it knew about.

An Apple spokesman, who provided information on the condition that he not be named, said the threats affected "a very small number of our customers" and that it would continue to build more defenses into its products.

In one encouraging sign, some of the most recent attacks failed against users who had activated Apple's recently introduced Lockdown Mode, which stops some communications from unknown callers and reduces the number of programs that are automatically invoked.

In an attack chain that used HomeKit - Apple's framework for apps that control home lighting, temperature and other smart devices - iPhone users were warned that someone had tried to access the program but had been blocked, researchers said.

Those warnings stopped showing up after a time, presumably because the attackers figured out a way to access the program without triggering the warning or because they abandoned the method.

Marczak urged other likely targets to use Lockdown Mode as well.
Senate Republicans lined up against Democrats' push to temporarily replace Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) on the Senate Judiciary Committee on Monday, appearing to doom Democrats' plan to solve the political and tactical problems caused by her extended health-related absence.

Feinstein, who at 89 is the oldest member of the Senate, announced last week that she had asked Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.) to temporarily replace her on the committee while she continues to "work from home" and recover from a case of shingles. That followed calls from some congressional Democrats for Feinstein, who has been absent from the chamber since February and has provided no return date, to resign from the Senate entirely.

Her absence has stalled confirmations of President Biden's judicial nominees, given that only judges with some Republican support can move to the floor without her tiebreaking vote on the committee.

But Republican senators spanning the far right of the conference to the middle said Monday they would not go along with the request, with some noting it is unprecedented to "temporarily" replace a senator on a committee.

Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), who has worked with Democratic senators to pass gun reforms and other bipartisan legislation, announced he would not back replacing her.

"I deeply respect Senator Feinstein, but this is an unprecedented request solely intended to appease those pushing for radical, activist judges," Tillis wrote on Twitter.

Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine), a key moderate on judicial issues, told reporters she did not support the temporary replacement, either.

Sen. John Cornyn (R-Tex.) on the Senate floor made a similar case, saying, "Never, not once have we allowed temporary substitutes on committees and now is not the time to start." He added that he hopes Feinstein recovers and comes back soon, but "Republicans are not going to . . . bail out Sen. Schumer or the Biden administration's most controversial nominees."

They join Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) - a close ally of Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) - and many others in opposing the move.

McConnell, who as Senate majority leader blocked President Barack Obama from filling a Supreme Court vacancy in 2016, has not yet commented on his view of the replacement.

Their objections add up to a major headache for Democrats, who were hoping to quickly solve the issues caused by Feinstein's absence this week by replacing her on the committee. Democratic members of the Judiciary Committee huddled Monday evening in part to discuss the issue.

"It creates a real dilemma for us," said Sen. Peter Welch (D-Vt.), a member of the Judiciary Committee. "We're stuck, if it's [a] 10-10 [split between Democrats and Republicans]. That's not an opinion - that's a reality."

"I think she's been a fantastic senator," he added. "But if we don't get Republican cooperation for a temporary leave of absence, then we have a problem."

Most committee assignments for both Republicans and Democrats are passed without fanfare or controversy by unanimous voice votes on the Senate floor. But replacing Feinstein on the committee would take 60 votes to approve given GOP objections, which means at least 10 Republicans would need to back the measure - a number that appeared out of reach.

On Monday, Schumer said he spoke to Feinstein a few days ago and that she's "very hopeful" she will return to Washington soon. Schumer said he would discuss with his caucus which senator he would put forward to replace her on the committee.

"We should have a temporary replacement until she returns and we're hopeful Republicans will join us on that," he said, adding that he planned to bring the matter to the floor this week. "It's the only right and fair thing to do."

Blocking Feinstein's temporary replacement could set a new precedent where committee assignments become objects of partisan warfare, which could negatively affect both parties' ability to seat new senators on committees when a lawmaker resigns or is replaced. But some conservatives, including Tillis and Cornyn, argue that a "temporary" replacement is unprecedented, and so opposing this particular replacement is different from declaring all committee assignments fair game. Democrats are not asking for Feinstein to be replaced on her other committees, which makes the request more unusual, they added.

Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D-Ill.), the chair of the Judiciary Committee, warned that the escalation in obstruction over committee assignments could backfire on Republicans, whose members have also had lengthy health-related absences, including most recently by McConnell.

"This can happen to the Republicans, they can find themselves in a vulnerable position through no fault of their own," Durbin said. "And I hope that they'll show a little kindness and caring for their colleague."

While Feinstein previously said she will not resign before her term is up, California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) said in 2021 he would appoint a Black woman to fill the role if Feinstein were to step down before 2024 - a move that would scramble the race to replace her. A number of Democrats have already lined up to succeed Feinstein, including Reps. Barbara Lee, Katie Porter and Adam B. Schiff.

If Schumer's attempt to replace Feinstein fails, calls for her resignation on the left may grow. Reps. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) and Dean Phillips (D-Minn.) asked Feinstein to step down last week, citing her long absence. Feinstein was hospitalized for treatment of shingles, and she has missed at least 60 votes this year.

"While she has had a lifetime of public service, it is obvious she can no longer fulfill her duties. Not speaking out undermines our credibility as elected representatives of the people," Khanna said. Feinstein announced she would not run for reelection earlier this year.

Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), another member of the Judiciary Committee, said Sunday she plans to take Feinstein "at her word" that she hopes to return to Washington soon, but that if her absence stretches on for "months," it is time to rethink the situation.

"If this goes on month after month after month, then she's gonna have to make a decision with her family and her friends about what her future holds, because this isn't just about California; it's also about the nation," Klobuchar said on ABC's "This Week." "So it's going to become an issue as the months go by. But I'm taking her at her word that she's going to return."

Other lawmakers have defended Feinstein, with Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) telling reporters it was "interesting" to see the resignation calls. "I don't know what political agendas are at work that are going after Sen. Feinstein in that way," she said last week. "I've never seen them go after a man who was sick in the Senate in that way."

- - -

The Washington Post's Leigh Ann Caldwell and Paul Kane contributed to this report.
thianchai sitthikongsak/Getty Images

Police say Friday's deadly shootings of three men on motorcycles may be connected to another shootout between suspected biker gang members earlier this month.

Three men with paraphernalia from the Bandidos motorcycle gang were gunned down and killed Friday on I-45 in Montgomery and Walker Counties, according to KHOU 11. Multiple other bikers were also shot and survived the attacks around the same time on I-45.
A Texas House committee on Tuesday is scheduled to hold hearings for several firearms bills, including legislation that aims to change how people buy guns, how certain sales are reported to authorities and when background checks are required. One would raise the minimum age to purchase certain semi-automatic firearms  a proposal some Uvalde families have been advocating for since the school shooting last year.

The legislative proposals face uphill battles in the Republican-controlled Legislature. For more than 13 years, lawmakers have loosened gun regulations and made accessing firearms easier, despite eight mass shootings in the same period. But Tuesdays hearing comes less than a year after the worst school shooting in Texas history, during which a gunman used a semi-automatic rifle to kill 19 elementary school students and two teachers in Uvalde.

The House Select Committee on Community Safety is scheduled to begin testimony at 9 a.m. Tuesday. The panel will likely pause while the full chamber convenes at 10 a.m. and then continue once the House finishes its business for Tuesday.

Heres what some of the bills would do:

House Bill 2744, from Rep. Tracy King, D-Batesville, would prohibit selling, renting, leasing or giving a semi-automatic rifle with a caliber greater than .22 that is capable of accepting a detachable magazine to a person younger than 21 years old. The bill includes exceptions if the recipient of the firearm is a peace officer or a current or honorably discharged member of the U.S. Armed Forces. The Uvalde gunman bought the weapon he used in the Robb Elementary shooting shortly after turning 18. Gov. Greg Abbott has said such a proposal would be unconstitutional, based on recent court rulings.

House Bill 22, from Rep. Joe Moody, D-El Paso, would require retailers to tell the Department of Public Safety when it sells or transfers more than one firearm or more than three detachable firearm magazines to the same person within five consecutive business days.

The DPS would then send the report to the sheriff of the county where the retailer is located as well as the sheriff of the county where the buyer lives. Failing to report such transactions would be a class B misdemeanor, which is punishable by roughly half a year in jail, up to a $2,000 fine or both. The reports generated would be confidential.

Similarly, House Bill 106, from Rep. Diego Bernal, D-San Antonio, would call for licensed firearms dealers to report to authorities when they sell more than one rifle or semi-automatic rifle to the same buyer, either during a single transaction or during multiple transactions within five business days.

House Bill 236, filed by Rep. Vikki Goodwin, D-Austin, would require national instant criminal background checks for private firearm transfers to ensure the person receiving or purchasing the firearm is legally allowed to have a gun. A violation would be a class A misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to a year in jail, up to a $4,000 fine or both. Licensed firearms dealers will be allowed to charge a small fee for running the background check for the private seller.

House Bill 298, also from Goodwin, would require people to wait three business days upon selling a firearm before delivering it to the person who bought it  or else it would be an unlawful transfer of a weapon.

This article originally appeared in The Texas Tribune at https://www.texastribune.org/2023/04/18/texas-house-semiautomatic-firearms/.

The Texas Tribune is a member-supported, nonpartisan newsroom informing and engaging Texans on state politics and policy. Learn more at texastribune.org.
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DETROIT (AP)  A Michigan Supreme Court justice announced Tuesday that he is getting mental-health treatment outside the state and will not hear a case next week.

I encourage everyone who struggles to seek the help they need, Richard Bernstein said in a statement released by the court.

Bernstein, who is blind, has been a justice since 2015 and was reelected last November to another eight-year term.

He caused controversy in January when he publicly criticized Justice Kyra Harris Bolden for hiring a law clerk who had turned his life around after serving 14 years in prison for robbing a store and shooting at police officers.

Bernstein, 48, said he was disgusted by the hiring. But after a backlash, Bernstein apologized and said he regretted his remarks. Bolden's clerk, Pete Martel, resigned.

The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear a case in Cheboygan on April 26.

I appreciate the opportunity to temporarily step out of the courtroom to focus on my mental health, Bernstein said. During this time, I will continue working remotely on all active cases.

Bernstein did not immediately respond to a message from The Associated Press seeking additional comment.

We look forward to him rejoining the court in person in the coming weeks, Chief Justice Elizabeth Clement said.

Bernstein comes from a well-known family in Michigan's legal community, name recognition that helped get him elected in 2014. The Sam Bernstein law firm is a major TV advertiser in the Detroit area.

In 2021, Bernstein took the unusual step of spending months in United Arab Emirates and Israel. He said his goal was to inspire people while talking about his life as a blind lawyer and judge.

The Supreme Court at the time was hearing cases by video conference because of COVID-19. Bernstein participated from overseas and said he was able to keep up with other court work, too.

___

Follow Ed White at http://twitter.com/edwritez
AP

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP)  Kuwait's crown prince has said its parliament again will be dissolved and new elections planned for the country after a court decision reinstated lawmakers from 2020.

Sheikh Meshal Al Ahmed Al Jaber made the announcement Monday in an address to the nation as the Muslim holy fasting month of Ramadan draws to an end this week. He called the decision the will of the Kuwaiti people, according to the state-run KUNA news agency.
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BEIRUT (AP)  Saudi Arabia's top diplomat arrived in the Syrian capital on Tuesday, the first official visit by an official from the kingdom in more than a decade, the Syrian government said.

The visit by Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan to Damascus follows that of his Syrian counterpart, Faisal Mikdad, to Riyadh last week. Syrian state news agency SANA reported that after his arrival, the Saudi top diplomat was received by Syrian President Bashar Assad.

A statement published by Saudi state media said that bin Farhan's visit came within the framework of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabias keenness and interest to reach a political solution to the Syrian crisis that would end all its repercussions and preserve Syrias unity, security, stability, and Arab identity and restore it to its Arab surroundings.

The kingdom cut off diplomatic relations with Damascus in 2012, after the outbreak of Syria's civil war. Syria and Saudi Arabia said last week they were moving toward restoring consular services and resuming flights between the two countries.

Syria was widely shunned by Arab governments over Assads brutal crackdown on protesters in a 2011 uprising that descended into civil war. The breakdown in relations culminated with Syria being ousted from the Arab League.

However, in recent years, as Assad consolidated control over most of the country, Syrias neighbors have begun to take steps toward rapprochement. The overtures picked up pace since the massive Feb. 6 earthquake in Turkey and Syria, and the Chinese-brokered reestablishment of ties between Saudi Arabia and Iran, which had backed opposing sides in the Syrian conflict.

Saudi Arabia is hosting the next Arab League summit in May, when Syrias membership is widely expected to be on the table. Some members, mainly Qatar, have opposed Damascus return to the organization.

On Friday, a group of regional leaders from the Arab Gulf countries as well as Egypt, Jordan and Iraq convened in Saudi Arabia to discuss Syrias political fate.

Following the meeting, the group promised to continue talks to reach a political solution to the Syrian conflict, but stopped short of endorsing its return to the Arab League.
LONDON (AP)  A diamond and art dealer was sanctioned Tuesday by the U.K. and U.S. governments for allegedly funding Lebanons militant Hezbollah group.

The U.K. Treasury said it froze Nazem Ahmad's assets in the U.K. because he financed the Iranian-backed Shiite militant organization that has been designated an international terrorist group. Under the sanctions, no one in the U.K. or U.S. will be able to do business with Ahmad or his businesses.

The firm action we have taken today will clamp down on those who are funding international terrorism, said Joanna Penn, U.K. treasury minister. She said the move would strengthen the U.K.'s economic and national security.

Ahmad was similarly sanctioned in 2019 by the U.S. Treasury, which alleged he was a prominent Lebanon-based money launderer and significant Hezbollah financier. It also said he was involved in smuggling blood diamonds," which are mined in conflict zones and sold to finance violence.

The U.S. Treasury Department on Tuesday afternoon sanctioned a network of 52 individuals and entities from Lebanon to South Africa to the United Kingdom to Hong Kong for their associations with Ahmad.

The sanctioned group is accused of running an international money laundering and sanctions evasion operation, facilitating the payment and delivery of jewelry, art and luxury goods for the benefit of Ahmad, according to Treasury.

Included in the sanctions announcement are Ahmads children, wife, extended family members, business associates, real estate firms and several diamond companies based in South Africa, Belgium and Dubai, which acted as brokers for jewelry and art sales.

U.S. Treasurys Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Brian E. Nelson said individuals involved in the luxury goods trade should be attentive to these potential tactics and schemes, which allow terrorist financiers, money launderers, and sanctions evaders to launder illicit proceeds through the purchase and consignment of luxury goods.

Rewards for Justice  the U.S. State Departments national security rewards program  is offering a reward of up to $10 million for information related to Ahmad.

A Beirut art gallery the U.K. government identified as belonging to Ahmad did not immediately reply to an email seeking comment.
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP)  Four Americans affiliated with a Black empowerment and political organization have been charged along with three Russians with conspiring to covertly sow discord in U.S. society, spread Russian propaganda and interfere illegally in U.S. elections, according to an indictment unsealed Tuesday.

The U.S. citizens and two Russians were added to an existing case in Tampa, Florida, federal court involving Aleksandr Ionov, described by prosecutors as the founder of a Moscow-based organization funded by the Russian government to carry out a clandestine influence campaign in the U.S.

The four Americans are all part of the African People's Socialist Party and Uhuru Movement, which has locations in St. Petersburg, Florida, and St. Louis. Among those charged is Omali Yeshitela, chairman of the U.S.-based organization  which was raided by the FBI last summer when Ionov was originally charged.

Russia's foreign intelligence service allegedly weaponized our First Amendment rights  freedoms Russia denies to its own citizens  to divide Americans and interfere in elections in the United States, said Assistant Attorney General Matthew Olsen of the Justice Department's National Security Division.

The department will not hesitate to expose and prosecute those who sow discord and corrupt U.S. elections in service of hostile foreign interests, regardless of whether the culprits are U.S. citizens or foreign individuals abroad, Olsen said in a news release.

Yeshitela and three other U.S. citizens  Penny Joanne Hess, Jesse Nevel and Augustus C. Romain Jr  are charged with conspiracy to defraud the U.S. Hess, Yeshitela and Nevel are also charged with impersonating agents of a foreign government. Ionov and the other two Russians, who remain in their country, face the fraud conspiracy charge.

Court records did not list attorneys for any of the seven defendants, and it wasn't immediately clear if they have been arrested. An email seeking comment was sent to the African People's Socialist Party, which has previously denied working covertly for Russia or that any members committed a crime.

Prosecutors said Ionov operated an entity called the Anti-Globalization Movement of Russia that was used to carry out its U.S. influence efforts, overseen by the Russian intelligence service known as the FSB. They recruited U.S.-based organizations to help sway elections, make it appear there was strong support in the U.S. for Russia's invasion of Ukraine and backing efforts such as a 2015 United Nations petition to decry the genocide of African people in the U.S., according to the indictment.

Among other things, the indictment charges that an unnamed candidate for local office in St. Petersburg received clandestine funding and political strategy from the group. Ionov and another Russian said at one point that their Florida effort would extend to the 2020 presidential campaign, which they called the main topic of the year.

The Uhuru group did have a candidate who ran unsuccessfully for St. Petersburg City Council in 2019, Eritha Akile Cainion. who is not charged in the indictment. She held a news conference in 2022 in which she defended Russia, saying world colonial powers have been collaborating against Russia" for more than a century.

St. Petersburg Mayor Ken Welch, a Democrat, called the allegations troubling. It is important to underscore that the City of St. Petersburg does not support, condone or tolerate any foreign government engaging in activities to undermine or influence our elections, Welch said in a statement.

Yeshitela, the indictment adds, traveled from Tampa to Moscow in 2015 to meet with Ionov and other Russians to communicate on future cooperation, according to an Ionov email. What followed was covert Russian funding and support for various activities in the U.S. until summer 2022, including demonstrations at the California and Georgia state capitols and at an unnamed social media company in San Francisco.

Much of the alleged cooperation involved support for Russian's invasion of Ukraine. In March 2022, Yeshitela held a news conference in which he said the African People's Socialist Party calls for unity with Russia in its defensive war in Ukraine against the world colonial powers. He also called for the independence of the Russian-occupied Donetsk region in eastern Ukraine.

In addition, the Justice Department announced a separate indictment in Washington charging Russian national Natalia Burlinova with conspiring with Russian intelligence to recruit U.S. academics and researchers to attend programs that advanced Russian interests. Burlinova concealed that her efforts were funded by the Russian government, prosecutors said.

It was not immediately clear Tuesday if Burlinova has an attorney to speak on her behalf.
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KHARTOUM, Sudan (AP)  Fighting raged in Sudan on Tuesday hours after an internationally brokered truce was supposed to have come into effect, as forces loyal to dueling generals battled for key locations in the capital and accused each other of violating the cease-fire.

The humanitarian truce came after days of intense efforts by top diplomats on four continents and had raised hopes of sparing Africa's third largest country from civil war. But each side still appeared determined to vanquish the other, despite the suffering of millions of civilians trapped by the fighting.

Residents said they still heard gunfire and explosions in different parts of the capital, Khartoum, particularly around the militarys headquarters and the Republican Palace. They said few people had ventured out, though there were crowds outside some bakeries.

The fighting remains underway, Atiya Abdulla Atiya of the Sudan Doctors Syndicate told The Associated Press. We are hearing constant gunfire.

Sudanese in the capital and in other cities have been hiding in their homes, caught in the crossfire as rival forces pounded residential areas with artillery and airstrikes and engaged in gunbattles outside. Residents say dead bodies in the streets are unreachable because of clashes, with the toll likely to be far higher than the 185 dead reported by the U.N. since fighting began Saturday.

The conflict between the armed forces, led by Gen. Abdel Fattah Burhan, and a paramilitary group known as the Rapid Support Forces, led by Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, has once again derailed Sudan's transition to democratic rule after decades of dictatorship and civil war.

Pro-democracy groups and political parties had recently reached an agreement with the two generals  who jointly led a 2021 coup  but it was never signed and is now in tatters.

The RSF immediately accused the military of violating the cease-fire after it came into effect at 6 p.m. local time (1600 GMT). The army said the rebellious militia continued its attacks around the military headquarters and launched a failed attack on a military base to the south.

Atiya said the Fadil Hospital in Khartoum was hit by shelling after the truce took effect, damaging a medical gas pipeline and water systems. Its one of at least 12 hospitals in and around the capital that have been forced to shut down because of the fighting, out of a total of around 20.

The U.S. Embassy said late Tuesday that there has been ongoing fighting in Khartoum and surrounding areas, and advised Americans in Sudan to shelter in place. It said there were no immediate plans for a government-coordinated evacuation.

Over the past day, fighters in Khartoum attacked a U.S. Embassy convoy and stormed the home of the EU envoy to Sudan, though neither attack caused casualties. The convoy of clearly marked U.S. Embassy vehicles was attacked Monday, and preliminary reports link the assailants to the RSF, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters.

Blinken spoke by phone late Monday separately with both generals, seeking a 24-hour halt in fighting as a foundation for a longer truce and return to negotiations. Egypt, which backs the Sudanese military, and Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, which have close ties to the RSF, have also been calling on all sides to stand down.

Dagalo said in a series of tweets Tuesday that he had approved a 24-hour humanitarian truce after speaking to Blinken. The military initially said the coming hours would bring the crushing defeat of the RSF and only publicly committed to the truce after it began.

Shortly before the start of the cease-fire, a coalition of political parties and pro-democracy groups said it received positive positions from leaders of the military and the RSF on the daylong humanitarian pause. It said in a statement that discussions were underway to solidify that truce.

More tanks and armored vehicles belonging to the military rolled into Khartoum early Tuesday, heading toward the militarys headquarters and the Republican Palace, residents said. During the night, fighter jets swooped overhead and anti-aircraft fire lit up the sky.

Each side already has tens of thousands of troops distributed around Khartoum and the city of Omdurman on the opposite bank of the Nile River. Terrified residents trapped in their homes for days have hoped for a halt long enough at least to get supplies or move to safer areas. The fighting erupted suddenly at the start of the last week of the Islamic holy month of fasting, Ramadan.

We are trying to take advantage of Ramadan to try to continue our faith and prayer," said Mohammed Al Faki, one of 89 students and staffers trapped in the engineering building at Khartoum University. "We are trying to help each other stay patient until this crisis is over.

One student was killed by a sniper, he said, and they buried his body on the campus. The students and staff have had to go out for supplies occasionally, risking harassment by RSF fighters battling troops nearby, he said.

They are attacking us on the streets. They are looting. If you are walking, they will take even your phone from you in the street, the 19-year-old student said of the RSF.

U.N. figures have put the toll from fighting at more than 185 dead and 1,800 wounded, without providing a breakdown of civilians and combatants. The Sudan Doctors Syndicate said Tuesday that at least 144 civilians were killed and more than 1,400 wounded but that many dead could still not be reached to be counted.

Videos posted online Tuesday showed Souq al-Bahri, a large outdoor market in northern Khartoum, in flames from nearby clashes. Satellite images from Maxar Technologies taken Monday showed damage across Khartoum, including to security service buildings. Tanks stood guard at a bridge over the White Nile River and other locations.

Satellite images from Planet Labs PBC, also taken Monday, showed some 20 damaged civilian and military aircraft at Khartoum International Airport, which has a military section. Some had been completely destroyed, with one still belching smoke. At the El Obeid and Merowe air bases, north and south of Khartoum, several fighter jets were among the destroyed aircraft.

The European Unions foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, tweeted Monday that the EU ambassador to Sudan was assaulted in his own residency, without providing further details.

A Western diplomat in Cairo said the residence was ransacked by armed men in RSF uniforms. No one was hurt but the armed men stole several items, said the diplomat, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to talk to the media.

Early on Sunday, the Norwegian ambassadors residence was hit by a shell, causing damage but no injuries, Norwegian Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt said.

The fighting is the latest chapter in Sudan's turmoil since a popular uprising four years ago helped depose long-time autocrat Omar al-Bashir.

Burhan and Dagalo jointly orchestrated an October 2021 coup, derailing efforts to enshrine a civilian government. Both generals have a long history of human rights abuses, and their forces have cracked down on pro-democracy activists.

Under international pressure, Burhan and Dagalo recently agreed to a framework agreement with political parties and pro-democracy groups. But the signing was repeatedly delayed as tensions rose over the integration of the RSF into the armed forces and the future chain of command  tensions that exploded into violence Saturday. ___ Magdy reported from Cairo. Associated Press writers Fay Abuelgasim in Beirut, Jon Gambrell in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and Matthew Lee in Karuizawa, Japan, contributed to this report.
KIGALI, Rwanda (AP)  Hundreds of Anglican conservative leaders from 52 countries are meeting in Rwanda amid a rift over support within the church for same-sex unions.

The conference in Kigali, the Rwandan capital, has been convened under the auspices of the Global Fellowship of Confessing Anglicans, or GAFCON, a group formed in 2008 that advocates orthodoxy in the global Anglican communion.

The meeting comes two months after the decision of the Church of England to bless civil marriages of same-sex couples. Clerics from Africa are among those who continue to express concern.

We are here to bring the Bible to be at the center of everything," Archbishop Laurent Mbanda of Rwanda told the AP Tuesday.

The decision by the Church of England to bless same-sex unions created enormous confusion and could be the final nail in the coffin in the already divided legacy of the Anglican Church," Mbanda said.

The divisions have widened in recent years as conservative bishops, notably from Africa and Asia, affirmed their opposition to LGBTQ inclusion and demanded repentance by the more liberal provinces with inclusive policies.

The general secretary of GAFCON, Archbishop Ben Kwashi of Nigeria, said in a statement that the Church of England's new stance on civil marriages is troubling for many Anglicans.

We do not seek division, but rather we want to move the mission of God in the world, the statement said.

The GAFCON conference, which features Bible studies and other seminars, will end on April 21.

GAFCON's chairman, American primate Foley Beach, said during Monday's opening that his group "can no longer recognize" Justin Welby, the archbishop of Canterbury, as the spiritual leader of the Anglican Communion.

Will you join us in praying for Justin Welby and the bishops he leads?" he said. You and I must repent and we become Christians again and we follow Jesus Christ.

Welby has previously acknowledged deep disagreement among the provinces, while urging them to try to walk together.
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CARACAS, Venezuela (AP)  Russia and Venezuela reviewed some of their hundreds of bilateral agreements covering the financial, energy, agricultural and other sectors during discussions between their top diplomats and other high-level officials Tuesday in the South American country.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and his Venezuelan counterpart Yvan Gil held a joint press conference in Caracas hours after the former arrived in the country in the second stop of a tour of four Latin American nations. Both men vowed continued support for each others country and condemned the economic sanctions Washington has imposed on them.

We fully support the position of our Venezuelan friends, Lavrov said. It is their country ... and we are going to support it in any way so that the Venezuelan economy becomes an independent economy from the pressures of the United States and other western actors.

Lavrovs remarks were translated from Russian to Spanish by a government-provided translator.

Officials reviewed some of the hundreds of agreements between both countries covering the financial, energy, agricultural and other sectors.

Gil and Lavrov, who was expected to also meet with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, said their countries are developing an alternative to SWIFT, the system that enables global financial transactions but to which key Russian banks lost access last year. Those banks were cut off as part of economic sanctions imposed on Russia at the start of the war in Ukraine last year.

Russia, along with China, is an unconditional ally of the Venezuelan government. Its support has allowed it to circumvent crippling economic sanctions meant to oust Maduro.

A global drop in oil prices last decade and government mismanagement pushed Venezuela into the political, social and economic crisis that has marked the entirety of Maduros presidency. The crisis fueled an opposition movement backed by the U.S. government, which under the Trump administration made forcing Maduro out one of its top foreign policy priorities and used economic sanctions on Venezuelas state-owned energy company to keep the countrys oil  its most valuable resource  out of some Western markets.

The Biden administration has lifted some sanctions and has also signaled it is prepared to provide sanctions relief in exchange for concrete steps by Maduro, such as promising not to ban whatever candidate emerges from opposition primaries later this year.

We have not perceived an easing of sanctions, Gil told reporters.

Relief actions already taken by the U.S. government include allowing oil giant Chevron to resume limited oil production in Venezuela on a six-month trial basis and removing a nephew of First Lady Cilia Flores from a list of sanctioned individuals.

Lavrov began his tour of Latin America on Monday with a stop in Brazil, where the administration of President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva is seeking to simultaneously develop ties with China, Europe and the U.S. while keeping an open door to Russia. During a visit to Dubai, Lula said that Russia and Ukraine share responsibility for the war.

Lavrov will also visit Cuba and Nicaragua this week.

Even before they were united by a fight against economic sanctions, Venezuela had forged a close relationship with Russia and made multi-million-dollar acquisitions of helicopters, fighter planes and Kalashnikov rifles.
Advanced Packaging Has Given a Significant Boost to the Memory Packaging Industry, Driving Growth and Innovation Published: 18 April 2023 by Tyler Hanes by Tyler Hanes

LYON, FRANCE  Overall memory packaging revenue is estimated to have been US$15.1 billion in 2022, excluding testing. This corresponds to around 10% of overall stand-alone memory revenue, around US$144 billion in 2022. Yole Intelligence, part of Yole Group, forecasts that revenue will reach US$31.8 billion in 2028 with a CAGR22-28 of 13%.

According to Thibault Grossi, Senior Technology and Market Analyst, Semiconductor & Software Division at Yole Intelligence: In terms of packaging revenue, DRAM will grow with a CAGR22-28 around 13% while NAND will grow faster, with a CAGR22-28 of 17%. Other memory technologies, such as NOR Flash, EEPROM, SRAM, and emerging NVM, are forecasted to grow with a CAGR22-28 of around 3%.

AP has become a key enabler of technological progress for NAND and DRAM. Among the different AP approaches, hybrid bonding has emerged as the most promising solution to manufacture higher bit density and higher-performance memory devices.

Whether its use is intended to enable higher performance or smaller form factors, advanced packaging is an increasingly important factor in the memory value equation. From representing about 47% of memory packaging revenue in 2022, AP will represent 77% by 2028.

In this context, Yole Intelligence releases its new product: Memory Packaging 2023 report. In this study, the company  part of Yole Group  presents an overview of the semiconductor memory market, provides an understanding of memory packaging technologies and markets, and offers market forecasts for memory packaging. This report also describes the memory packaging business and delineates and analyzes the competitive landscape.

Wire-bond is the dominant packaging approach. It is widely used for mobile memory and storage applications, followed by flip-chip packaging, which continues expanding in the DRAM market.

The adoption of flip-chip packaging with short interconnects is essential to enable high bandwidths per pin. While wire-bond packaging may still meet DDR 5 performance requirements, analysts expect flip-chip packaging to become a must-have for DDR6.

Leadframe remains widely used for NOR Flash and other memory technologies and is the package with the highest volume of unit shipments.

WLCSP is being increasingly adopted for consumer/wearable applications requiring small form factors, such as True Wireless Stereo earbuds. It is found in low-density memory devices such as NOR Flash, EEPROM, and SLC NAND.
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Contractare si Achizitie Bunuri Anunturi de Angajare Granturi - Finantari Burse de studiu Stagii Profesionale Oportunitati de voluntariat Toate Articolele
A film due to be released in cinemas in the autumn claims that double standards facing charities are preventing them from achieving their missions.

Uncharitable, a documentary based on a controversial book of the same name by activist Dan Pallotta, is due to be screened in up to 100 cinemas in the US in September.

Civil Society News has seen an early version of the film, which argues that charities are wrongly limited by being told to keep their overhead and salaries low.

It says charities are unable to dream, while private companies have greater freedom to take necessary risks

Charities havent changed the world because thats not what we asked them to do

The film also draws from Pallottas TED talk, the way we think about charity is dead wrong, which has surpassed 5m views.

In the documentary, Pallotta says: You want to know why charities havent changed the world? That's not what we asked them to do. What we asked them to do is to keep their overhead and salaries low  so guess what they did? Thats what they did.

He compares charities to for-profit organisations and says they cannot end the social issues they aim to as they are criticised for paying high salaries which enable them to get the best people for the job.

Pallotta also argues that non-profit organisations are unfairly criticised for spending high amounts on marketing, advertising and fundraising.

He gave the example of Disney losing $150m on Tomorrowland. Charities and non-profit organisations are unable to take similar risks in their practices, as if they did, there could be criminal repercussions.

In this sense, we have made it a liability to dream in the non-profit sector in terms of taking risks, says Pallotta.

Thomas J. Tierney, co-founder of the non-profit organisation Bridgespan Group, also features in the film. He shares his frustration at the non-profit sector playing it safe despite the magnitude of the social issues it aims to address.

The documentary also stars actor Edward Norton, chief executive of TED Chris Anderson, chief executive and president of YMCA Chicago Dorri McWhorther and other leaders in the US charity sector.

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British Red Crosss income has increased by more than 200m, according to an advert for its next chief executive.

The brief reads that the 12 months to December 2022 were a record year for British Red Cross, with total income up 93% to 438.2m from 226.5m the year prior.

This surge in income, driven largely by donors supporting the charity's response to the war in Ukraine, means the charity saw an overall surplus in 2022 of 58.8m, compared to a deficit of 1.3m in 2021.

Meanwhile, the charitys total expenditure was 366.8m, up from 234.7m the year before, with 57% being spent on supporting international emergency and response work, for example in Ukraine.

The briefing adds the charitys free reserves at the end of 2022 were 48.8m, the same as in 2021.

A BRC spokesperson said: We were inspired by the extraordinary kindness and generosity of the British people last year, driven largely by their support of our Ukraine appeal.

From the moment the violence in Ukraine escalated, Red Cross teams have been on the ground supporting people  reaching more than 14.5 million people with life-saving aid within Ukraine and neighbouring countries.

Red Cross teams continue to deliver vital aid and support around the clock and will be there for as long as they are needed.

Its income in 2021 had dropped from 305.9m in 2019, which according to its accounts was partially due to the disruption of the coronavirus pandemic.

British Red Cross full accounts should be filed with the Charity Commission later this year.

The charity is looking for a new chief executive , after Mike Adamson announced his decision to step down after eight years in post.

Adamson will remain in post until it has recruited a new CEO in late 2023, the charity previously said.

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The Refugee Council has defended its decision to accept a 10m donation from a trust fund reportedly linked to an allegedly disgraced former king of Spain.

It was notified of a 10m (8.8m) donation through a trust fund administered by former University of Oxford professor Joaquin Romero Maura, along with his entire estate, after his death last June and decided to accept the gift after a robust due diligence process.

The money from the trust will be donated in regular instalments to the charity. The value of Romero Mauras estate is unknown but includes properties in the UK and France, the charity said.

Spanish newspaper El Pais reported last week that the donation mostly came from the JRM 2004 Trust, based on the island of Jersey, and allegedly linked to former King Juan Carlos I, who abdicated in 2014 amid spending scandals.

According to a report in the Telegraph in 2021 , the fund was set up in the 1990s by a close aide of then King Juan Carlos, Manuel Prado y Colon de Carvajal, who was later jailed for embezzlement.

Romero Maura was named as a fund trustee and became its sole administrator after the death of Prado y Colon de Carvajal in 2009, the newspaper said.

Meanwhile, Juan Carlos I is currently visiting the UK and is reportedly due to meet King Charles III, a distant relative, for a private lunch.

Charity thrilled with gift

Refugee Council said it followed the Charity Commissions guide on conducting due diligence, alongside our own policies and procedures for accepting and refusing donations.

It said it also undertook extensive due diligence in line with its partnerships and associations policy and escalated its investigation to the Charity Commission.

Tamsin Baxter, executive director of fundraising and external affairs at Refugee Council, said: Following a robust due diligence process and with agreement from our trustees, we have decided to accept the generous legacy donation from Mr Joaquin Romero Maura.

We are thrilled as this gift will allow us to make a big difference in the lives of refugees and people seeking asylum.



We will take great care to ensure the money is deployed to greatest effect and has a lasting legacy in the future.

A Charity Commission spokesperson said: We have been engaging with the Refugee Council in relation to its decision to accept this donation after it reached out to us.

The charity has demonstrated that it has followed due diligence processes, including taking legal advice and following Commission guidance, in its decision that accepting the donation is in its best interests.
PARIS (AP)  A French court on Monday acquitted Airbus and Air France of manslaughter charges over the 2009 crash of Flight 447 from Rio to Paris, which killed 228 people and led to lasting changes in aircraft safety measures.

Sobs broke out in the courtroom as the presiding judge read out the decision, a devastating defeat for victims families who fought for 13 years to see the case reach court.

The three-judge panel ruled that there wasnt enough evidence of a direct link between decisions by the companies and the crash. The official investigation found that multiple factors contributed to the disaster, including pilot error and the icing over of external sensors called pitot tubes.

We are sickened. The court is telling us, go on, theres not a problem here, theres nothing to see,' said Daniele Lamy, who lost her son Eric in the crash and heads an association for families of victims.

For the powerful, impunity reigns. Centuries pass, and nothing changes, she said. The families of victims are mortified and in total disarray.

While the court didnt find the companies guilty of criminal wrongdoing, the judges said that Airbus and Air France held civil responsibility for the damages caused by the crash, and ordered them to compensate families of victims. It didnt provide an overall amount, but scheduled hearings in September to work that out.

Air France has already compensated families of those killed, who came from 33 countries. Families from around the world are among the plaintiffs, including many in Brazil.

The two-month trial left families wracked with anger and disappointment. Unusually, even state prosecutors argued for acquittal, saying that the proceedings didnt produce enough proof of criminal wrongdoing by the companies.

Prosecutors laid the blame primarily on the pilots, who died in the crash. Airbus lawyers also blamed pilot error, and Air France said the full reasons for the crash will never be known.

Air France said in a statement that the company took note of the ruling, and will always remember the victims of this terrible accident, and express deep compassion to all of their loved ones.

Airbus and Air France had faced potential fines of up to 225,000 euros ($219, 000) each if convicted of manslaughter. That would have been just a fraction of their annual revenues, but a criminal conviction for the aviation heavyweights could have reverberated through the industry.

The A330-200 plane disappeared from radar in a storm over the Atlantic Ocean on June 1, 2009, with 216 passengers and 12 crew members aboard. It took two years to find the plane and its black box recorders on the ocean floor, at depths of more than 13,000 feet (around 4,000 meters).

Air France was accused of not having implemented training in the event of icing of the pitot probes despite the risks. Airbus was accused of not doing enough to urgently inform airlines and their crews about faults with the pitots or to ensure training to mitigate the risk.

The crash had lasting impacts on the industry, leading to changes in regulations for airspeed sensors and in how pilots are trained.

The trial was fraught with emotion. Distraught families shouted down the CEOs of Airbus and Air France as the proceedings opened in October, crying out Shame! as the executives took the stand. Dozens of people who lost loved ones stormed out of the court as the trial wrapped up with the prosecutors surprising call for acquittal.

___

Angela Charlton in Paris contributed.

Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Two excess insurers may be liable for the more than $20 million that ExxonMobil Corp. paid to settle lawsuits filed by a contractors employees who were badly burned while working at an Exxon refinery, the Texas Supreme Court ruled.

The high court on Friday reversed a judgment by the Court of Appeals that held Exxon was not an insured under excess policies that Savage Refinery Services had purchased in addition to a general commercial liability policy.

While the Court of Appeals ruled that a service agreement between Exxon and Savage limited coverage to $2 million, the high courts 6-0 decision says the agreement stipulated a minimum amount of coverage, not a maximum.

Whether Savage had to buy as much insurance as it did is beside the point, the opinion says. What matters is that it did obtain that insurance.

Exxon hired Savage to operate its refinery in Baytown, Texas. The agreement required Savage to provide Exxon with at least $2 million in insurance coverage for any injuries, deaths or property damage.

Savage purchased five insurance policies. National Union Fire Insurance Co. underwrote two of them  a primary general commercial liability policy and an umbrella policy that paid losses in excess of the primary. Starr Indemnity & Liability Insurance Co. issued another excess policy.

Two Savage employees were burned when hot water and stream was accidentally released from coker drums at the refinery. One of the workers filed a personal injury lawsuit against Exxon and Exxon reached an out-of-court settlement with the other injured employee.

Savages primary insurers paid about $5 million toward the settlements, but Exxon paid an additional $20,087.29 out of pocket. The oil company then sued National Union and Starr for breach of contract.

The 125th District Court in Harris County ruled that National Union must pay, but not Starr. A panel of the 1st District Court of Appeals, however, reversed that decision. The three-judge panel found that the service agreement required Savage to provide only commercial general liability coverage, not the excess insurance offered by the National Union and Starr policies.

After Exxon appealed to the Supreme Court, the Texas Oil and Gas Association, the International Association of Drilling Contractors and the Texas Civil Justice League filed amicus briefs in support of its position. The drilling contractors said the Court of Appeals ruling alters previously-clear obligations in drilling contracts that have been accepted and understood in the oil and gas and insurance industries for decades.

In its opinion, the Supreme Court said the Court of Appeals ruling also violates a longstanding principle of Texas insurance law: If outside documents are included in an insurance contract, they must be clear and leave no doubt of the intention of the parties.

The opinion says the National Union policy expressly covers any person or organization that is named as an additional insured by the primary policy. The policy specifically disclaims coverage that is broader than that offered by the primary policy.

The Supreme Court said the Court of Appeals erred by deciding that Exxon was asking for broader coverage because the limits of the primary policy had already been exhausted.

The court said the excess policy makes no mention of payout limits in the primary policy or the type of insurance that must be offered. The court said such an interpretation defeats the purpose of excess insurance, which pays out only when the limits of a primary policy are exhausted.

We could embrace such a result only if the language the parties used clearly required it, the opinion says.

The Supreme Court held that ExxonMobil is an insured for both the National Union and Starr policies. It reversed the Court of Appeals and remanded the case to the Court of Appeals for further proceedings.

The opinion says the Court of Appeals can consider district arguments made by Starr when it reconsiders the case.

About the photo: Flames and smoke rise after a fire started at an Exxon Mobil facility, Wednesday, July 31, 2019, in Baytown, Texas (Jon Shapley/Houston Chronicle via AP)
BEACHWOOD, Ohio -- The citys voters will head to the polls May 2 to decide whether to supply funding for Beachwood City Schools to build two new buildings.

The $65 million construction project would see new elementary schools built at the current sites of Hilltop and Bryden elementary schools.

That 3.95-mill bond issue would cost homeowners $138.25 per year for each $100,000 of the Cuyahoga County auditors appraised value of their homes.

School district officials, however, have reached out to city leaders with a unique plan designed to improve the chances of passage of the bond issue by temporarily not collecting property tax millage annually owed to the city.

The school district has asked City Council and the city administration to pause the levying of the citys charter mills in 2024, 2025 and 2026.

This city-school partnership agreement would have the effect of maintaining a flat tax rate -- the current 5.68 total bond and charter millage rate -- for residents and businesses through 2026.

If council agrees to the districts request -- and council support is strong -- the added cost of the bond issue would be greatly reduced or negated.

After 2026, the school districts current debt payments on the project, to be paid over 37 years, will drop by more than half.

City Councils Committee-of-the-Whole discussed the schools request during a meeting Monday (April 17).

Economic development is critical to the continued success of our school system, Beachwood Schools Superintendent Robert Hardis explained in a district news release. Beachwood City Schools consistently partners with the City of Beachwood to make our city attractive to high-quality, sustainable investment from the business community.

This partnership to keep property taxes low would be another example of our joint commitment to this goal and of the strong working relationship between our school and city representatives.

Mayor Justin Berns said he supports the idea.

My goal is to build on the collaborative partnership between the city and the schools, Berns stated in the release. The temporary reallocation of these funds will be a benefit to both our residents and a worthy economic development tool to assist our business community.

Said Council President Alec Isaacson: Essentially, the schools are funded 100 percent by property tax. The city is funded mostly by income tax, with a small amount of property tax. We, the city, will not collect 2-and-a-fraction mills of the citys property tax, and the schools will pick that millage up, leaving everybodys tax rates flat.

This is pretty complex and we have to, first of all, make sure this is something financially in the citys best interest and financially in the communitys best interest, Isaacson said.

And, we needed to check with the lawyers to make sure that the mechanics of doing this were feasible.

Isaacson said council will likely pass a resolution within the next week or so, at a special meeting, stating its backing of the plan so that word of it -- and the benefit to residents -- can be made known as soon as possible before the May 2 election.

Council will likely officially approve the agreement during its next regularly scheduled meeting May 1.

We need to send some signal to the community that were going to do this, Isaacson said of the special meetings resolution.

It is very unique, Isaacson said of the partnership and the resultant agreement. To the best of our knowledge it hasnt been done in the state of Ohio before.

This is a really good opportunity for the city and the schools to work closely together so that we can give some economic incentives to every business in the community and every homeowner in the community, he said.

And, also, were making sure we have high-quality schools, which are going to continue to attract young families to our city and help our city to keep growing.

Council Vice President Eric Synenberg said council will vote only one year at a time on the requests, meaning the current council will vote on not collecting the citys share of millage only for 2024.

Future councils will decide on 2025 and 2026, depending on the financial situation in those years.

He noted that paying for long-discussed police station renovations will have to be considered before council votes in 2025 and 2026.

By not collecting its millage, the city will forgo about $2 million of the approximately $46 million in revenue it collects.

I think this really sets the city up for success, the city and the schools in terms of having first-rate facilities, Synenberg said of the agreement.

Councilman Mike Burkons said he also favors the agreement and that the city should make it a regular practice not to collect its millage.

I have been advocating for what the schools are requesting since 2019, and I feel the same way regardless of the outcome of the bond issue in May, he said in an email to cleveland.com.

Just because the charter permits the city to levy and collect this money without voter approval or demonstrating a need for it doesnt mean we should.

I dont know the exact numbers, but I think the average Beachwood homeowner with a house valued at $400,000 would pay around $500 less a year in property taxes to the city if we didnt levy these charter mills in question, which I think most homeowners would prefer if the city cant make a compelling case for why they need this extra $2 million a year.

Keep in mind that Beachwood only receives about $2 million of their annual $46 million in general fund revenue from these charter mills in question, Burkons stated.

This compares to cities like Bay (Village), Lyndhurst, Rocky River and Mayfield Heights, which are similar in size and also known to provide excellent services, that have figured out how to do so with general fund revenue of only $15 to $25 million a year.

Considering this, I dont think there is a compelling argument that the city cant make do if we only had $44 million of general fund revenue coming in.

In 2022, Beachwood Schools, with community input, developed a master plan that calls for construction of two new elementary facilities -- one at Bryden Elementary for grades K-2 and the other at Hilltop Elementary for grades 3-5 -- as well as updates to the Fairmount Early Childhood Center.

Bryden and Hilltop schools were both constructed starting in 1956 and require significant repairs and upgrades in order to support the districts growing elementary enrollment and programming.

Beachwood Schools is the sixth-largest employer in Beachwood and shares $800,000 worth of services through an agreement with the City of Beachwood.

The district provides its indoor and outdoor facilities year-round to the citys recreation department, as well as busing for its summer camps, in return for the posting of a Beachwood police officer at each school building daily during the school year.

Read more from the Sun Press.
BRUNSWICK, Ohio -- With the opening of its ninth Northeast Ohio franchise April 15, the Beyond Juicery+Eatery ownership team of Jim and Shaun MacLellan and Eric Engelke has finally brought its brand home.

We are super excited to be here in our hometown, Engelke said at a grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new location at 3849 Center Road.
MAYFIELD, Ohio -- If Mayor Brenda Bodnars State of the Village address Monday (April 17) was a movie, Progressive Insurance would have played the lead role.

Thats because Progressive -- by far the villages largest employee and the owner of much of Mayfields property designated for business -- has been doing things differently for more than three years: Its employees, following the COVID-19 pandemic, have not been mandated to return to work.
ELYRIA, Ohio -- The Stocker Art Gallery of Lorain County Community College (LCCC) is hosting a student art exhibit through April 28.

Our goal is to present a variety of outstanding art exhibitions and serve our students, the college community and the greater community as a living, learning classroom, said Beth Bryan, the gallerys operations coordinator.

Faculty and students in the Department of Visual Arts are currently presenting the 2023 Student Art Show and Portfolio Exhibit. The exhibit features student work produced in LCCC art courses from spring semester of 2022 through the current semester.

Categories of art are varied and cover students who took courses in ceramics, digital art, drawing, graphic design, painting, photography, printmaking and sculpture. Students could show one or more pieces of their work.

The Portfolio Exhibit is something different: It is a showcase of works by graduating students only. Included in this special exhibit are the works of Samantha Donahue, Wren Wilfing and Brooke Zakutny.

Samantha Donahue explores a lot of vivid colors in her work on display at the Stocker Art Gallery. (Photo Courtesy of Samantha Donahue)

Their works are displayed in cases and on the walls outside the main gallery on the second floor, as well as inside the main gallery.

The portfolios are designed as a tool for the students to utilize in applying at four-year colleges to complete their bachelor degrees.

All of the portfolio works clearly express maturing art skills, as well as a high level of imagination and a mastering of color.

This show is unusual, and it is well worth seeing the many works from young artists.

Admission to the Stocker Art Gallery is free and open from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, and by appointment by calling the Stocker administrative offices at 440-366-4140.

Read more from the Sun Sentinel.
UNIVERSITY HEIGHTS, Ohio -- Four-year Councilman Justin Gould announced during Mondays (April 17) City Council meeting that he is resigning from council.

Gould is planning to move with his fiance to North Carolina.

Gould, 41, recently resigned from the U.S. Department of Justice, where he served as an assistant United States attorney. His resume also includes time as a Cuyahoga County prosecutor.

There is a sentiment shared in my faith tradition: When we lose ourselves in the service of others, we find our lifes purpose and happiness, Gould read.

In 2018, I found myself lost in the fog of the most personally excruciating era of my adult life. I reset my course by turning to these core values.

(Vice Mayor) Michele Weiss spoke to me about an opportunity to serve as a councilperson, he said. I met with Mayor (Michael Dylan) Brennan over coffee to help translate my professional experience into campaign literature.

In January 2020, with many of you present, my mom (Mary Gould), administered my oath of office at John Carroll (University). Since then, weve made University Heights a more equitable place to live. Weve successfully navigated budget cycles and a global pandemic.

In recent times, Goulds relationship with Brennan has been difficult, as the mayor and council members Gould, Weiss, John Rach, Barbara Blankfeld and Sheri Sax have all expressed their differences with the mayor at various times.

Addressing that friction, Gould stated, Although it has been painful to become increasingly unable to differentiate dissent from dysfunction in our leadership, serving the citizens of this lovely city has also offered joys and helped me grow.

Mayor Brennan, Vice Mayor Weiss, I am grateful for the passion you bring to your positions and for the important lessons I have learned from the ways you have chosen to lead. Indeed, through my service, I have reconnected with my lifes purpose.

The beautiful thing about living your most authentic life is the truly phenomenal people you attract, Gould continued. I have made lifelong friendships with so many of the special people who live in and serve University Heights, including my council colleagues. Thank you for your commitment to our citizens and the welfare of our city.

On a personal note, I also attracted a Southern gentleman who recently asked me to marry him. I said yes. Love, too, is a core value, and following it in this instance will take me to North Carolina, Gould said.

So, after a decade of federal service, I resigned from the Department of Justice last month and will resign my City Council position at the close of this meeting.

Gould went on to say, To our talented directors, employees, service and safety forces, to Kelly Thomas our clerk of council, and Luke McConville, our director of law, thank you for your professionalism and for the miracles each of you perform for us.

Addressing the citys residents, Gould finished by stating, To the citizens who have granted me this opportunity, beyond your curbsides, and the virtual stage of social media, University Heights is undergoing substantial change.

JCU is transforming the southern gateway to the city and the broader composition of our housing stock. Deals are being forged at University Square and beyond.

Our charter, zoning code and facilities plan are simultaneously being modernized, and that modernization cannot come fast enough, as some of the ways our city was planned are so outdated they are no longer legally enforceable, and our safety forces continue to live and work in disrespectful conditions.

We continue to compete for business investment against neighboring projects with budgets in the tens of millions.

Pay attention to the people who represent you. You are seen through the words they use and every action they take or delay. Take account of what they prioritize, and evaluate whether those are your priorities or are the true priorities of your city, Gould continued.

Do this lest you find yourself living in a community you do not recognize. Finally, and most sincerely, I thank you for the incredible honor of serving as your councilperson and wish you safety and prosperity in the future.

Council will now begin the process of gathering resumes and selecting a replacement for Gould within the next 30 days.

Speaking of Gould, Weiss said: I will sorely miss my colleague and friend Justin Gould. His clear understanding of the law and the way he articulates his position was an asset to the city.

He is one of the most compassionate individuals I know, and I wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors.

Read more from the Sun Press.
HEBRON, New York  A 20-year-old woman was shot and killed Saturday night when a man opened fire on a vehicle after it pulled into his driveway while trying to turn around, authorities say.

Kevin Monahan, 65, has been charged with second-degree murder in connection with the shooting death of Kaylin Gillis of Schuylerville, N.Y., according to a news release from the Washington County Sheriffs Office.

The sheriffs office says the shooting occurred just before 10 p.m. Saturday. Gillis was a passenger in a vehicle and was looking for the home of a friend when they pulled into the driveway of Monahans residence in an attempt to turn around, reports say.

Authorities say Monahan fired at least two shots at the vehicle. The group drove to the neighboring town of Salem, northeast of Albany near the Vermont state line, and called 911, said Washington County Sheriff Jeffrey Murphy, who noted the shooting took place in an area with limited cellphone service. Emergency crews arrived and performed CPR on Gillis but couldnt save her.

Monahan was uncooperative with sheriffs deputies after the shooting and refused to leave his residence, the sheriffs office says. After a standoff that lasted several hours, he was taken into custody with help from the State Police Special Operation Response Team.

Murphy said at a news conference Monday that Gillis was an innocent young girl who was out with friends looking for another friends house, according to the Times Union of Albany. He said there was no reason for Mr. Monahan to feel threatened.

The shooting happened days after 16-year-old Ralph Yarl was shot and wounded in Kansas City, Missouri, after going to the wrong house to pick up his younger brothers.

The Associated Press contributed to this story.
CLEVELAND, Ohio  Cleveland Ballet will close its Playhouse Square season with two noteworthy, one-act performances  Serenade and the world premiere of Symphony of Life  at 7 p.m., April 21-22.

Both will be accompanied by the newly created Cleveland Ballet Orchestra, a diverse group of 25 talented musicians from around the nation - many from Northeast Ohio.

Serenade, composed by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky and choreographed by the legendary George Balanchine, is a historically notable presentation. It was the first performance choreographed by the master for the School of American Ballet.

Related: The Cleveland Ballet debuts a new orchestra at season finale in April

Balanchine is noteworthy as the father of American ballet and a founder of the neoclassical style. His work is characterized by plotless ballets with sparse costuming and decor. He was known to choreograph for the music, not the story.

We were ecstatic to get Serenade. It was his first work here in America. Its historical, says Gladisa Guadalupe, artistic director and co-founder of the eight-year-old Cleveland Ballet. Its so important for companies. For me, its very special.

Balanchine is the master of American ballet. When he left his country and came to USA, he created a new style of ballet. Its timeless. He was ahead of his time. He knew how to use a body in different ways, shapes, and forms., she says. Hes part of the history of ballet. Every company desires to have his work. Originally it was just for the New York City Ballet. Slowly other companies inquired, only a selective few started getting permission.

To have a Balanchine work in your repertoire is to say you have made it, she says. Its credibility. For us to bring this year was phenomenal.

Bringing Balanchines work to Cleveland required the creation of an orchestra. When we started doing the talks with the George Balanchine Trust, they highly recommended that we do this piece with an orchestra. So, thats where we are today.

The second piece, Symphony of Life, was created by Israeli composer Anna Segal and choreographed by Ilia Zhivoi. This work marks Cleveland Ballets first commissioned musical score and the second ballet performed with a live orchestra.

Guadalupe describes it as neoclassical and very European.

Its about destiny, she says, refusing to give away any plot. You have to come see it. The male dancer is deciding his destiny. His choices are muse or fate.

Cleveland Ballet dancers Katharine Cowan, Marla Aleyda and Emanuel Tavares practice for 'Symphony of Life.' (Photo by New Image Photography)

Emanuel Tavares, a two-year veteran of the company from Brazil, is that dancer. And he works physically hard to perform the lead.

I love the challenge of being on the stage from the beginning to the end, he says. As soon as I start dancing, I dont leave the ballet until the end. One of my first solos is my favorite.

I love the whole concept of the piece, he says. Its nice to do a contemporary, neo-classical ballet and learn so much.

This is the first contemporary work for Marla Aleyda, a native Clevelander whos in her fifth year of the ballet, and one of the two female leads for Symphony of Life.

It is a lot of work, she says. Ive never done contemporary work before. I love ballet, but I never thought I could do contemporary work. It didnt click with me.

When Mr. Ilia did our audition, I thought there was no way I would be cast in it. When the casting came out, I was really shocked. The hardest part is letting go of being a ballerina for a minute and connecting emotionally with the piece more than just physically, she says.

For contemporary work, you have to really be able to let yourself go. Theres not as much as structure as in ballet and Im a very structured person. Its difficult for me to let go and move freely, she continues.

To make the piece speak to the audience, you have to find a piece of yourself in the character, she notes. Once Mr. Ilia started choreographing, I saw more of myself in the character he was developing. I can relate more to the muse as a gentle and forgiving being. I want to see more of that in myself.

My favorite part is really connecting to my character and finding parts I can make me.

Katharine Cowan, whos in her fourth season with the company and hails from Seattle, enjoyed the challenges of this brand-new piece.

Its actually really fun to do because Ive done a lot of younger people, says the dancer, who is 5-foot, 2-inches tall and the other female lead. Im used to doing bright, springy, happy characters, she says. This is a fun challenge to play something a lot more serious and mature. Its an intense character, but not scary. Its fun to play something like that.

Its been fascinating to work with this choreographer because he knows exactly what he wants from the choreography, she says. Theres more detail. He does contemporary ballet and has such specific details that he wants me to convey.

Individual tickets are available through Cleveland Ballet Ticketing, at (216) 320-9000 x 107 or tickets@clevelandballet.org.

RELATED: Cleveland Ballet announces Northeast Ohio summer tour

Cleveland Ballet announces ninth season, three shows for 2023-2024
CLEVELAND, Ohio  Its dangerous to toss unwanted prescription drugs in the trash. Thats why University Hospitals and the Cleveland Clinic are partnering to host collection efforts at 39 locations throughout Greater Cleveland as part of National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday.

Other area hospitals and community sites also are participating by offering safe, designated drug collection sites. Most sites will be open on National Prescription Take Back Day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The event is sponsored by the federal Drug Enforcement Administration.

Old or unused prescriptions can be dangerous if they fall into the wrong hands.

A child who finds a medication bottle in the bathroom trash bin could be poisoned. Medication in landfills can release toxic chemicals into the air and soil. Flushed pills can contaminate the water supply.

We can help prevent and reduce medication misuse and opioid addiction by properly disposing of any unneeded medications, the Drug Enforcement Administration said in a statement.

The agency can only collect pills or patches. No syringes, liquids or lotions, or inhalers will be accepted.

In 2022, the Clinic disposed of more than 7,000 pounds in unused medication, the health system said. And over the last five years, Summa Health has disposed of more than 200 pounds of unused medication, the Akron-based health system said.

To prepare for Take Back Day, patients are instructed to take an inventory of medicine cabinets to find unwanted or expired drugs. Be sure all pill bottle lids are tight, and label the bottles marking them for disposal.

The Drug Enforcement Administration also sponsors collection sites throughout the country on Take Back Day. Check the list for participating police stations and other agencies.

Some health systems run year-round medication disposal programs. Use this collection site locator to find year-round disposal collection sites.

Additionally, here is information about how to dispose of drugs at some area hospitals and a pharmacy.

Cleveland Clinic

Many Clinic pharmacies are safe medication disposal locations year-round, including those at Hillcrest, Marymount and Akron General hospitals. Find a complete list here.

Meijer

Customers can simply visit a Meijer store and drop off medications in the drug take back kiosks near the pharmacy. Opioids, controlled substances and over-the-counter medications are all accepted. To find their nearest pharmacy, customers can visit Meijer.com/Pharmacy.

MetroHealth System

MetroHealth Police will staff a temporary drop box inside the atrium of the outpatient plaza at the hospitals main campus for unwanted prescriptions and over-the-counter medications on Saturday. Visitors can pull over in the oval and MetroHealth officers will assist with the drop-off.

MetroHealth also has permanent safe collection boxes at its Main Campus near the MetroHealth Police Department office, as well as near the emergency departments at the Cleveland Heights and Parma sites.

Southwest General Health Center

The medical center has a year-round medication disposal program that serves residents of Berea, Brook Park, Columbia Township, Middleburg Heights, Olmsted Falls, Strongsville and Brunswick.

Summa Health

Summas Dispose of Unused Medication Properly (D.U.M.P.) program provides secure boxes where community members can safely dispose of expired or unwanted medication at any time.

D.U.M.P. boxes are located in the entrance of Summa emergency rooms in Akron, Barberton, Green and Wadsworth.

Summa also offers Deterra pouches, which destroy unwanted and expired medications safely and permanently at home, at its Barberton and Akron locations.

University Hospitals

UH on Saturday is sponsoring drug take-back stations at various hospital facilities and other community sites, including Ahuja Medical Center, Geauga Medical Center, Elyria Police Station and Lyndhurst Municipal Complex.

All locations will offer free Narcan kits to help reduce opioid overdoses. Naloxone, also known by the brand name Narcan, reverses an overdose caused by opioids such as heroin, fentanyl, or prescription pain medications.
OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma  The states governor is calling for the resignations of four county officials, including the sheriff, after a newspaper released a recording in which the officials reportedly can be heard discussing the lynching of Black people and about killing two journalists.

I am both appalled and disheartened to hear of the horrid comments made by officials in McCurtain County, Gov. Kevin Stitt said in a statement. There is simply no place for such hateful rhetoric in the state of Oklahoma, especially by those that serve to represent the community through their respective office.

The McCurtain Gazette-News released the recording in which it says McCurtain County Sheriff Kevin Clardy, investigator Alicia Manning and District 2 Commissioner Mark Jennings can be heard talking after a March 6 meeting of the county Board of Commissioners, the Oklahoman reports.

ABC News reports one of the reporters discussed by the county officials, Chris Willingham, released the recording. ABC News reports recordings made in public are legal in Oklahoma and that the newspaper says it obtained them legally.

The papers publisher, Bruce Willingham, tells the AP he had left a voice-activated recorder in the meeting room because he suspected the officials were conducting county business afterward, which is a violation of the states Open Meeting Act.

In the recording, Manning and Jennings appear to discuss both Bruce and Chris Willingham. Jennings tells Clardy and Manning I know where two deep holes are dug if you ever need them, and the sheriff responds Ive got an excavator.

Jennings also said hes known two or three hit men in Louisiana, adding theyre very quiet guys.

In the recording, Jennings also appears to complain about not being able to hang Black people, saying: They got more rights than we got.

Stitt also is calling for the resignation of Jail Administrator Larry Hendrix. ABC News reports Hendrix was present during the conversation.

The Oklahoman reports that copies of the full recording have been given to both the FBI and the Oklahoma Attorney Generals Office. The AGs office tells the Associated Press it is investigating the recording, but the FBI would not comment on the case.

The Associated Press contributed to this story.
COLUMBUS, Ohio  Cleveland businessman Bernie Moreno officially launched his second campaign for U.S. Senate in 2024 on Tuesday.

Moreno filed paperwork last week with the Federal Elections Commission declaring candidacy, but on Tuesday he made his official entry into the Republican primary with an introductory advertisement.

He joins GOP state Sen. Matt Dolan, of Chagrin Falls, as an early entrant into the Republican race to face off with Democratic U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown, of Cleveland.

Its the second shot Moreno, a Cleveland luxury car dealer and businessman, is taking at running for the Senate. He ran last year in the crowded Republican primary that eventually sent U.S. Sen. JD Vance to Washington. But he dropped out of the race in February after a meeting with former President Donald Trump, whose endorsement was coveted by most of the field.

Trump eventually endorsed Vance just before the primary, and he went on to defeat former U.S. Rep Tim Ryan, a Niles Democrat, in the general election.

Moreno already appears to be an early favorite of Trump this go-round. Trump posted to social media that Moreno would not be easy to beat, noting that he is the father-in-law of U.S. Rep. Max Miller, a Rocky River Republican who worked for Trump in the White House. Miller is married to Morenos daughter, Emily Moreno Miller.

Morenos introductory ad immediately invokes Trump. It starts by saying Where are we heading in America? President Trump put us on a path to prosperity, and describes Moreno as an outsider conservative who stands in contrast to insider politicians.

After a bruising 2022 GOP primary for U.S. Senate, the 2024 race could draw a similarly competitive field. Browns seat is rated by Cook Political Report as a tossup in a closely divided Senate where Democrats hold the slimmest of margins.

In addition to Moreno and Dolan, Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose is believed to be eyeing a run.

Moreno spent more than $6.8 million in the 2022 primary, FEC records show, including $3.8 million of his own money.

The Republican slugfest for Ohios Senate seat is getting more crowded, chaotic and messy by the day. With a year of nasty mud-slinging ahead, its clear that whoever emerges from this primary will be bruised, battered, and out-of-touch with Ohioans values, Ohio Democratic Party spokesperson Reeves Oyster said in a prepared statement.

Sabrina Eaton contributed reporting.
Rotunda Rumblings

Reefer regulation: Gov. Mike DeWine, in his budget recommendations before the legislature, proposes removing the Ohio Board of Pharmacy from the regulatory scheme over medical marijuana, and transferring its responsibilities to the Ohio Department of Commerce, Laura Hancock reports. DeWine and the industry say that having one less state agency involved will streamline regulation.

Pay raise: The bipartisan Ohio Ballot Board unanimously cleared the proposal to raise Ohios minimum wage to $15 an hour for the next stage of the winding process to pass a constitutional amendment. The board determined there was just one constitutional amendment, and not multiple, so backers can start collecting signatures. Raise the Wage Ohio says that its aiming to get on the ballot in November 2024, Hancock reports.

Jordan vs. Bragg: House Judiciary Committee chairman Jim Jordan took his political road show to New York on Monday to hear testimony from witnesses who claim the prosecutor who charged ex-President Donald Trump with falsifying business records routinely ignores and mishandles street crimes, Sabrina Eaton reports. While Jordan said Alvin Bragg, Jr., is using his office to do the bidding of left-wing campaign funders, Democratic committee members said Jordan is the one who is playing politics by trying to intimidate Bragg on Trumps behalf

Veep to visit: Mike Pence, the former vice president who is mulling a run for the White House next year, will speak at a fundraiser for the Center for Christian Virtue, an evangelical conservative organization thats influential on Ohio Capitol Square. If Pence were to clinch the nomination in 2024, he would need the support of conservative Christians, as Trump is the favorite in the GOP primary, Hancock reports.

Another salvo: Attorneys for Jordan filed a response brief Monday to a lawsuit from Bragg that asked a federal court to reject subpoenas from Jordans committee about Braggs Trump prosecution as an unprecedently brazen and unconstitutional attack on local law enforcement. Jordans brief contends the requested relief would, itself, improperly usurp the Committees constitutional power to investigate and conduct oversight. It asserts that no outside entity is permitted to challenge the wisdom of the congressional approach or methodology.

Balance: About 300 SNAP (sometimes known as welfare) recipients have unusually high, five-figure balances in their accounts, Anna Staver of the USA Today Network Ohio Bureau reports, citing data obtained from an unidentified source. The revelation comes as at least two legislative hearings are scheduled this week to focus on accountability and waste, fraud and abuse of public benefits.

The wrestler: Between his perch in national politics and his role in a sex abuse scandal at Ohio State University, Jim Jordan deploys hardball tactics in high profile fights on his march to amass power. Luke Broadwater of The New York Times examines Jordans application of lessons learned on the mats and how he hones and unleashes them in political combat.

Greene Day: U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, a Georgia Republican, is scheduled to swing through Ohio on Saturday, April 29, according to the Hancock County GOP. Greene and Republican U.S. Senate candidate Bernie Moreno are slated to hold a meet-and-greet at the Hancock County Fairgrounds with those who purchase $500 VIP tables (with proceeds going to Greenes campaign). Greene is then set to attend the Putnam County Lincoln-Reagan Dinner.

Asking the wrong guy: Republican Matt Dolans U.S. Senate campaign, which raised more than $3.3 million last quarter (including $3 million from Dolan himself), is now sending fundraising requests to an unusual location: the office of one of his potential rivals. Dolans mailer, sent to Secretary of State Frank LaRoses office in downtown Columbus, is actually addressed to the offices previous occupant: now-Lt. Gov. Jon Husted. Jon, Ohioans deserve better, the letter states, referring to Democratic U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown.

Full Disclosure

Five things we learned from the Jan. 8, 2022, financial disclosure of Roy Klopfenstein, a freshman Republican from Haviland.

1. He previously served as a Paulding County Commissioner

2. He earned income from multiple farming businesses

3. He invested in several trusts, IRAs, a retirement fund and General Electric stock

4. He owed at least $1,000 to three creditors during the year

5. Besides his personal residence, he owns more than 500 acres of property in Van Wert and Paulding counties.

On the Move

Kelli Briggs joined Klein/Johnson Group, a lobbying firm, to work on House Republican leadership and member outreach. She previously served as a chief of staff to former Ohio GOP congressman Pat Tiberi.

Birthdays

Emma Cardone, director of advocacy for the Ohio Hospital Association

Former state Rep. Mark Fraizer

Secretary of State Frank LaRose

U.S. Rep. Bob Latta

State Treasurer Robert Sprague

Thomas J. Moyer, former chief justice of the Ohio Supreme Court (1939-2010)

Straight From The Source

I think that any speaker is going to be hard pressed not to allow a vote on a measure with this broad of support, not only within the caucus but amongst the Ohio Republican Party as a whole.

-State Rep. Brian Stewart, speaking to Gongwer, on whether House Speaker Jason Stephens will allow a vote on a proposed amendment to Ohios Constitution to make future amendments (abortion access being the most proximate) harder. A committee vote is scheduled for Wednesday.

Capitol Letter is a daily briefing providing succinct, timely information for those who care deeply about the decisions made by state government. Subscribe to get Capitol Letter in your email box each weekday for free.
Governor Kevin Stitt (R-OK) speaks during a roundtable at the State Dining Room of the White House June 18, 2020 in Washington, DC.

The governor of Oklahoma has called for the resignations of the sheriff and other top officials in a rural county after they were recorded talking about "beating, killing and burying" a father/son team of local reporters  and lamenting that they could no longer hang Black people with a "damned rope."

Gov. Kevin Stitt called for McCurtain County Sheriff Kevin Clardy, county Commissioner Mark Jennings, sheriff's investigator Alicia Manning, and Jail Administrator Larry Hendrix to step down after the McCurtain County Gazette-News published an article over the weekend about what was captured on the recording.

"I am both appalled and disheartened to hear of the horrid comments made by officials in McCurtain County," Stitt said in a statement released Sunday. "There is simply no place for such hateful rhetoric in the state of Oklahoma, especially by those that serve to represent the community through their respective office."

Stitt, a Republican, said he has ordered the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation to "initiate an investigation to determine whether any illegal conduct has occurred."

Bruce Willingham, who works for his family-owned newspaper, has turned the full audio over to the FBI and the Oklahoma Attorney General's office, his lawyers said.

Meanwhile, dozens of county residents angered by the officials' comments picketed Monday outside the headquarters of the McCurtain County Commissioners in the town of Idabel, which is about 200 miles southwest of Oklahoma City, the local NBC affiliate reported.

None of the four officials named by Stitt could be reached for comment.

The Willinghams also did not respond to inquiries from NBC News. But Kilpatrick Townsend, the law firm representing the Willingham family, said they appreciated the expressions of support.

"For nearly a year, they have suffered intimidation, ridicule and harassment based solely on their efforts to report the news for McCurtain County," the statement said.

The latest furor erupted after Willingham, acting on a tip that the commissioners were illegally engaging in county business after the public meetings were over, left a recording device on March 6 in the commissioners' chamber, the newspaper reported.

Earlier that day, Willingham's son, Christopher Lee Willingham, who is also a reporter at the newspaper, had filed a lawsuit against Clardy, Manning and the commissioners in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma seeking unspecified damages. He claimed they were punishing him for his hard-hitting reporting by spreading "slander" about him.

When Willingham retrieved the device, he discovered that the conversation began with a grisly conversation about a fire victim being compared to "barbecue" before the group turned to talking about his son.

"My papaw would have whipped his ass, would have wiped him and used him for toilet paper," Manning said of the younger Willingham, according to the newspaper. "If my daddy hadn't been run over by a vehicle, he would have been down there."

Jennings then piped in, saying "I know where two big, deep holes are here if you ever need them."

"I've got an excavator," Clardy chimed in, according to the newspaper.



Jennings, according to the newspaper, then said he knew "two or three hit men" who belong to the Louisiana mafia.

"They're very quiet guys and would cut no f---ing mercy," he reportedly said.

Manning, according to the newspaper, discussed "who would get the blame if anything was done" to Christopher Lee Willingham's wife, Angie.

There was also "caustic" criticism of local District Attorney Mark Matloff, the newspaper reported in the first batch of recordings it released.

Matloff is not commenting on the report, a member of his staff said at the McCurtain County Courthouse.

"Some of the discussion included not only harsh criticism of judges, but also the possibility of assaults on judges here," the newspaper reported.

When the talk turned to who might run for sheriff against Clardy, Jenning recalled how a former sheriff "would take a damned Black guy and whoop their ass and throw them in the cell."

"Yeah," Clardy replied, according to the newspaper. "It's not like that no more."

"I know," said Jennings. "Take them down to Mud Creek and hang them up with a damned rope. But you can't do that anymore. They've got more rights than we've got."

Two more batches of recordings made by Willingham are to be released soon, his lawyers said.

The Willingham family has lived in the county for 120 years and has operated The McCurtain County Gazette-News for 40 years. Founded in 1905, it is a print-only publication, a rarity in the rapidly diminishing world of newspapers. And this is not the first time it has made national news.

In the wake of the 1995 bombing of the federal building in Oklahoma City, Willingham hired a freelancer named J.D. Cash who produced a number of scoops about the investigation into the deadly terror attack and who was later derided as a "conspiracy theorist" by some of the newspaper's competitors. Cash died in 2007.
Anti-abortion demonstrators celebrate outside the United States Supreme Court as the court rules in the Dobbs v Women's Health Organization abortion case, overturning the landmark Roe v Wade abortion decision in Washington, U.S., June 24, 2022.

An anti-abortion group on Tuesday asked the Supreme Court to keep restrictions on the abortion pill mifepristone in place while the battle over the medication's legal status plays out.

Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito on Friday temporarily blocked those restrictions until 11:59 p.m. ET on Wednesday in response to an emergency request from the Justice Department and Danco Laboratories, the company that distributes mifepristone.

The Justice Department and Danco also asked the Supreme Court to review the case on an expedited schedule and make a judgement before its summer recess. The high court, which has a 6-3 conservative majority, could decide at any time how to proceed with the case.

The group, the Alliance Defending Freedom, asked the Supreme Court, should the justices decide to take the case, to look into whether an 1873 law called the Comstock Act bans mail delivery of mifepristone. The anti-abortion organization also said the court should consider whether the FDA properly approved mifepristone in 2000 if it takes the case.

Mifepristone, used in combination with a drug called misoprostol, is the most common method to terminate a pregnancy in the U.S., accounting for about half of all abortions. If the lower court rulings against mifepristone ultimately stand, access to abortion could face restrictions even in some states where the procedure remains legal.

Attorneys with the Alliance Defending Freedom accused the FDA of illegally rolling back restrictions on mifepristone over the years. The organization represents a coalition of doctors who oppose abortion called the Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine.

Former FDA officials, the pharmaceutical industry, 23 U.S. states, hundreds of members of Congress and leading medical associations all strongly dispute those claims. They say the FDA determined mifepristone was safe and effective based on a rigorous scientific review, and its decision regulating the medication falls well within its authority granted by Congress.

The former FDA officials and a coalition of drug companies that include Pfizer , in a separate briefs to the Supreme Court, warned that the lower court rulings restricting mifepristone would deliver a severe blow to the FDA's regulatory powers and chill research, development and investment in new medications.

Federal Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk of the U.S. Northern District of Texas earlier this month suspended the FDA's approval of mifepristone and every subsequent action the agency had taken to ease access to the medication.
"Giving myself actual permission to just do the least amount of work possible that day was extremely liberating, because I'd been conditioned to believe that my worth is directly tied to my productivity and output," said Marisa Jo, who coined the term "bare minimum Monday."

Most of us are familiar with the Sunday scaries. Marisa Jo knew those feelings all too well: "I would wake up on Monday already feeling behind, overwhelmed, and anxious  this feeling would only compound as the week continued." "I was trying to get myself to overachieve my way out of the burnout I was experiencing, but of course, that didn't work." Sick of the "instant panic" she felt upon waking up, she gave herself permission one Monday last year to do the bare minimum for work.

Giving myself actual permission to just do the least amount of work possible that day was extremely liberating, because I'd been conditioned to believe that my worth is directly tied to my productivity and output. Marisa Jo @itsmarisajo

"Giving myself actual permission to just do the least amount of work possible that day was extremely liberating, because I'd been conditioned to believe that my worth is directly tied to my productivity and output," she told CNBC Make It. "So alleviating that pressure and choosing to let myself off the hook was a much needed change of mindset going into the beginning of the week ... which suddenly allowed me to be productive again." Jo went on to coin the term "bare minimum Monday" on TikTok, and videos with the hashtag have since racked up 2.2 million views at the time of this article's publication.

According to a recent study from LinkedIn and Headspace, nearly 75% of working Americans say they experience the Sunday scaries. "With the volume of work or meetings on our plates, there needs to be a heightened focus on mental health and well-being instead of employees thinking they have to put their foot right on the gas at 9am on Monday," said Andrew Hunter, a career expert and co-founder of job search engine Adzuna. "This trend is about giving employees flexibility to pace their work evenly  reducing work-related stress and burnout that can potentially carry over into their engagement, productivity and the company culture." How does bare minimum Monday help with burnout? And is it for everyone? CNBC Make It finds out.

Bare minimum is 'still enough'

For Jo, a bare minimum Monday looks like this: The first 2 hours of the day are "phone- and work-free," and used to do anything that sets herself up for a good week ahead. "This could be finishing errands I didn't get to on the weekend, working on a creative project, getting extra rest, exercising, whatever I feel is needed." The work portion of her day, typically 3 hours, involves must-do tasks that don't feel like a stretch to finish on Monday.

I can understand that some might interpret it as a 'pass' [to do less]  but if we can't find a way to help people create a work-life mix that supports mental well-being, we can't be successful. Dr. Natalie Baumgartner Workplace psychologist

"I make sure that the tasks I assign myself are urgent, important, or both, and everything else waits until Tuesday  unless I gain enough momentum to keep going," she said. "To me, a 'must-do' task is one that has direct consequences if ... not completed. This could be something that has to stick to a strict schedule or something others are waiting on." While bare minimum Monday is a concept that has resonated with many on social media, Jo acknowledges there are critics who see it as a way to slack off at work. "The term 'bare minimum' has always been used in a negative way when it comes to work, but ... the definition actually is: The least amount of something that is allowable."

"Critics are forgetting that the bare minimum quite literally means that it's still enough." Workplace psychologist and behavioral expert Natalie Baumgartner warned against "unintentionally villainizing workers" when the concept is "a reflection of the systemic issue" of overworking and burnout. "I can understand that some might interpret it as a 'pass' [to do less]  but if we can't find a way to help people create a work-life mix that supports mental well-being, we can't be successful."

How to make it work

But bare minimum Mondays could lead workers to procrastinate to avoid stress. "As a psychologist, I see that there is the potential that if 'bare minimum Mondays' are not managed well  we could push off Monday stressors to Tuesday, which still mitigates the issue but doesn't remove it," Baumgartner said.

"Perhaps it's not the whole day of Monday but that the first two hours of Monday are dedicated to self-care  In that way, there is a softer transition to the week that begins with prioritizing health and well-being." Amy Zimmerman, chief people officer at fintech company Relay Payments, shares that view. "If it's coming from someone who routinely faces performance issues and excessive time off, it could very well go from 'bare minimum Mondays' to 'bare minimum every days' and that isn't okay," she said. Experts CNBC spoke to said bare minimum Mondays could backfire if expectations aren't clearly communicated to colleagues or employers.

If you've decided you're not working on deadlines or taking meetings on Monday but don't communicate that with your teams, they may become frustrated and start to create their own narrative about why you aren't participating. Jenn Lim Workplace expert

"If you've decided you're not working on deadlines or taking meetings on Monday but don't communicate that with your teams, they may become frustrated and start to create their own narrative about why you aren't participating," said workplace expert Jenn Lim. "A more effective way to go about it is to communicate intentions openly with your team and manager." Adzuna's Hunter added that workers should recognize that there may be circumstances in which having a "bare minimum Monday" is impossible, such as "unforeseen or urgent projects." "It's important for employees and employers alike to be flexible, so the workload is appropriately distributed and colleagues or managers aren't placed under extra stress from missed deadlines."

Benefits for employers

Though bare minimum Mondays aren't likely to be adopted by companies anytime soon, experts said considering the essence of the concept could be beneficial for employers. "The core message is a good one  we must prioritize wellbeing or we all fail. I think 'bare minimum Mondays' are one of many creative concepts that should absolutely at least be considered inside organizations," said Baumgartner. "One of the most powerful ways to get out in front of this is to keep your finger on the pulse of how employees are doing and what they need."

Employers must look beyond presenteeism and give their employees the trust and flexibility to complete tasks according to their own schedules. Andrew Hunter Career expert
Chinese President Xi Jinping met with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in early April. Xinhua News Agency | Xinhua News Agency | Getty Images

European Union officials on Tuesday called for a new and joint approach toward China, following French President Emmanuel Macron's controversial comments on Taiwan earlier this month. However, this new strategy is unlikely to please the United States. The Biden administration has so far adopted a particularly critical tone toward Beijing and put forward measures to restrict China's influence, including export restrictions on certain technologies. It has pushed European nations to do the same. European nations currently have different views on dealing with Beijing. Some capitals favor a closer relationship with the U.S., given its critical role on security and defense  while other countries are afraid of antagonizing China and endangering deep economic ties. This has resulted in a divided approach toward China. "I believe we can, and we must, carve out our own distinct European approach that also leaves space for us to cooperate with other partners, too," Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission  the executive arm of the EU  said during a speech Tuesday.

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She contended that the relationship with China "is too important for us not to define our own European strategy and principles." China was the largest source of EU imports and the third-largest buyer of EU goods in 2022, according to Eurostat, highlighting Beijing's economic importance for Europe. This is particularly relevant when economic growth in the EU is vulnerable to the ongoing war in Ukrain. European leaders have also tried to forge closer relations with Beijing, so that the latter refrains from supporting Russia in the war with Ukraine. United States intelligence suggested China considered sending weapons and other ammunition to Russia, according to NBC News. There is also the question of climate change, where many EU leaders find a dialogue with China pivotal toward any substantial progress in bringing down CO2 emissions. "The point I made in Beijing is that we do not want to cut economic, societal, political and scientific ties," von der Leyen said at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France. "But there is an urgent need to rebalance our relationship on the basis of transparency, predictability and reciprocity," she stressed, adding that "the central part of our future China strategy must be economic de-risking." This marks a stark difference from the American perspective, as U.S. officials believe that a complete dissociation from Beijing  known as decoupling  is the best approach. For Europe, the intention is to reduce and avoid risks, rather than a complete disengagement from China.

We are in rival mode, but we have to keep talking with China. Josep Borrell EU's top diplomat
A federal appeals court ruled Monday that Berkeley, California, cannot enforce a ban on natural gas hookups in new buildings, saying a U.S. federal law preempts the city's regulation.

The ruling from the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco was a response to a case from 2019 by the California Restaurant Association against the city of Berkeley. In the appeal, the three-judge panel said the U.S. Energy Policy Conservation Act of 1975 preempts the city's ban on the installation of natural gas piping within new construction.

"By completely prohibiting the installation of natural gas piping within newly constructed buildings, the City of Berkeley has waded into a domain preempted by Congress," Judge Patrick Bumatay, a Trump appointee, wrote for the panel.

The decision could have ramifications for efforts by other cities and counties in California to ban natural gas appliances in new buildings to help reduce climate-changing greenhouse gas emissions. A few dozen cities across the country, including San Francisco, New York City, San Jose, Seattle, and Cambridge, Massachusetts, have also moved to ban natural gas hookups in some new buildings, citing environmental and health reasons.

All three judges on the panel were Republican appointees. The ruling reversed a 2021 decision by a U.S. district judge who had blocked the challenge to the city's ban.
A person walks by Fox News signage posted on the News Corporation building in New York City, April 12, 2023

WILMINGTON, Del.  Opening arguments were delayed Tuesday in the Dominion Voting Systems' defamation lawsuit accusing Fox News of spreading the damaging falsehood that the company rigged the 2020 election.

The lawsuit was ultimately settled before opening arguments would begin.

The beginning of the civil trial in Delaware Superior Court came more than two years after Dominion, which sells voting machines and election software, first accused Fox of knowingly airing lies about the company in order to boost its ratings.

The network "intentionally and falsely" blamed Dominion for former President Donald Trump's loss to President Joe Biden by broadcasting unsubstantiated claims about the company, including that it meddled with vote tallies, Dominion alleged.

Fox maintained that the statements made about Dominion on its air were protected by the First Amendment, which shields the freedoms of speech and press. The network also argued that Dominion's suit does not establish that the claims were aired with "actual malice," a requirement to meet the legal standard for defamation.

Jury selection in the case wrapped up late Tuesday morning, but not without its fireworks. Just as the 12-member jury and 12 alternates were set and about to receive instructions, an alternate juror interrupted.

"Sir, I can't do this. I've been up all night. I can't do this," the alternate juror said, shaking his head.

Davis also reminded the courtroom earlier on Tuesday that photos or live Tweets or blogs were not permitted from inside the main room. He noted that earlier on Tuesday someone was removed from the courtroom for taking photos. The person, a Fox News representative, was forced to delete the photos and permanently exit the courtroom.

The Fox representative misunderstood the courtroom rules and apologized, adding that the pictures were deleted immediately, the company told CNBC.

The judge said the person was removed and "turned on everybody else," and said others in the courtroom were live-tweeting. Davis said he wouldn't tolerate this from anyone. "If it's flagrant, you may be held in contempt," he said.

The trial was expected to last up to six weeks, and Judge Eric Davis appeared determined to stick to that timeframe.

"I'm going to keep it strict. I'm not going to give you an extra day," Davis told attorneys for both camps.

Davis later told jurors not to be concerned with the delayed start to the trial, which began a day later than previously planned: "I will control the time. Don't concern yourself with that, it is my job," he said.
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WILMINGTON, Del.  Fox Corp. and its cable networks agreed Tuesday to pay $787.5 million to Dominion Voting Systems to settle a defamation lawsuit over false claims that Dominion's machines swayed the outcome of the 2020 presidential election. The settlement, which came after a 12-member jury had been seated in the case in Delaware Superior Court, averted a weekslong trial that could have seen top Fox TV hosts and network boss Rupert Murdoch publicly testify. The deal, which will cost Fox nearly half of the $1.6 billion that Dominion originally demanded, was struck as opening arguments were delayed for hours amid speculation that the parties were discussing a resolution of the case.

Dominion CEO John Poulos, joined by members of the Dominion Voting Systems legal team, speaks to members of the media outside the Leonard Williams Justice Center in Wilmington, Delaware, on April 18, 2023. Andrew Caballero-Reynolds | AFP | Getty Images

Dominion CEO John Poulos told reporters outside court that the settlement was "historic." "Fox has admitted to telling lies about Dominion that caused enormous damage to my company, our employees and the customers that we serve," Poulus said. "Nothing can ever make up for that. Throughout this process we have sought accountability and believed the evidence brought to light through this case underscored the consequences of spreading lies. Truthful reporting in the media is essential to our democracy," he said. Superior Court Judge Eric Davis called the jury and 12 alternate jurors into the courtroom shortly before 4 p.m. ET to announce that they would not have to hear any testimony or review any evidence. "The parties have resolved this case," Davis told them. "Without you, the parties would not have been able to resolve their situation ... although it's short, not the six weeks you've expected, you have done your duty," the judge said.

Justin Nelson (2R), joined by fellow members of the Dominion Voting Systems legal team, depart the Leonard Williams Justice Center in Wilmington, Delaware, on April 18, 2023. Andrew Caballero-Reynolds | AFP | Getty Images

In a statement, Fox News Media said, "We are pleased to have reached a settlement of our dispute with Dominion Voting Systems." "We acknowledge the Court's rulings finding certain claims about Dominion to be false," Fox News Media said. "This settlement reflects Fox's continued commitment to the highest journalistic standards. We are hopeful that our decision to resolve this dispute with Dominion amicably, instead of the acrimony of a divisive trial, allows the country to move forward from these issues." Fox's on-air talent won't have to acknowledge or say anything regarding the settlement on air, according to people familiar with the matter. A Dominion spokesperson said Tuesday: "An apology is about accountability, and today Dominion held Fox accountable. Fox paid a historic settlement and issued a statement acknowledging that the statements about Dominion were false." The suit by Dominion, which sells voting machines and election software, had argued that Fox News and its sister network Fox Business "intentionally and falsely" blamed Dominion for the 2020 loss of former President Donald Trump to President Joe Biden by airing unsubstantiated claims about the company. Fox had said in court filings that its hosts' statements about Dominion were protected by the First Amendment. The company also said Dominion had not shown that the statements were made with so-called actual malice, which is the threshold for civil defamation claims. Lawyers for Fox said nothing when asked for comment as they left court Tuesday. The settlement avoids, for the moment, the risk of Murdoch and Fox hosts facing hostile questioning in public over the claims made about Dominion on the conservative news networks after the 2020 election. The planned witnesses in the case had included Tucker Carlson, Maria Bartiromo, Sean Hannity, Laura Ingraham and Jeanine Pirro. Also slated to testify was Lou Dobbs, whose Fox Business show was canceled in 2021.

Fox lawyers depart after Dominion Voting Systems and Fox settled the defamation lawsuit over Fox's coverage of debunked election-rigging claims, in Wilmington, Delaware, April 18, 2023. Mark Makela | Reuters
U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Chair Gary Gensler testifies before a Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee oversight hearing on the SEC on Capitol Hill in Washington, U.S., September 14, 2021.

WASHINGTON  Securities and Exchange Commission Chairman Gary Gensler faced a barrage of criticism from House Republicans on Tuesday over his agency's crackdown on cryptocurrency trading platforms.

In more than four hours of testimony before the House Financial Services Committee, Gensler stood firm on his view that crypto trading platforms and exchanges should abide by strict U.S. securities laws.

"All of these companies should come into compliance with the law, and until they do, we will continue to pursue them as the cop on the beat, and investigate and follow the facts and law," Gensler told the panel.

Republicans raised many of the points the crypto industry regularly makes about regulation, arguing that the SEC's disclosure rules were designed to regulate traditional markets, and they are ill suited to decentralized digital currency exchanges.

Without legislation from Congress that creates a new regulatory framework specifically for crypto, the companies argue, digital platforms will move overseas to avoid running afoul of U.S. regulators.

This could weaken America's status as a hub for cryptocurrency innovation, they argue, and potentially cede that position to U.S. adversaries.

"Your approach is driving innovation overseas and endangering American competitiveness," committee chairman Rep. Patrick McHenry, R-N.C., told Gensler at the start of the hearing.

"Regulation by enforcement is not sufficient nor sustainable," said McHenry. "You're punishing digital asset firms for allegedly not adhering to the law when they don't know it will apply to them."

Gensler, however, rejected the notion that crypto trading platforms don't know how to interpret U.S. securities laws.

"We have a whole field in crypto that understands the law, and if they are providing exchange services, broker dealer services, clearing services of crypto security tokens, they should come into compliance," Gensler said in response to a similar point later in the hearing.

Throughout his testimony, Gensler declined to discuss the specifics of its investigation into the collapse of FTX, and more recently, its notice to Coinbase last month that the crypto exchange is under investigation.

The SEC has ramped up its enforcement of the crypto industry, bearing down on companies and projects that it alleges are hawking unregistered securities. Reports first surfaced of an SEC probe into Coinbase in mid-2022.

Facing the House committee on Tuesday, Gensler showed little sympathy for the challenges faced by crypto exchanges operating in the U.S.

"We have a clear regulatory framework built up over 90 years," he said. The exchanges are "just a bunch of intermediaries in this market that think they have a choice. They don't have a choice. They're noncompliant generally, and they need to come into compliance," he added.

The prospect of legislation to regulate digital currencies has faded this year, drummed out by the showdown over the debt ceiling and the House Republican majority's focus on issues like energy and countering the multi-pronged threat from China.

Nonetheless, major crypto industry groups are planning to spend millions of dollars this year to lobby Congress and the Biden administration.
16 April 2023, Baden-Wurttemberg, Neckarwestheim: The Neckarwestheim nuclear power plant. The era of commercial power generation with nuclear power plants in Germany came to an end on Saturday with the separation of the Isar 2, Neckarwestheim and Emsland nuclear power plants from the power grid. Picture Alliance | Picture Alliance | Getty Images

As of Sunday, April 16, Germany is no longer producing any electricity from nuclear power plants. Closures of the Emsland, Isar II, and Neckarwestheim II nuclear plants in Germany were expected. The country announced plans to phase out nuclear power in 2011. In the fall of 2022, with the Ukraine war constraining access to energy especially in Europe, Germany decided to keep these existing nuclear reactors operating for an additional few months to bolster supplies. "This was a highly anticipated action. The German government extended the lifetimes of these plants for a few months, but never planned beyond that," David Victor, a professor of innovation and public policy at UC San Diego, told CNBC. Responses to the closures ranged from aghast that Germany would shut down a clean source of energy production while global response to anthropogenic climate change continues to be insufficient, to celebratory that the country will avoid any nuclear accidents like those that have happened in other parts of the world.

'The whole thing is incomprehensible'

A collection of esteemed scientists, including two Nobel laureates and professors from the likes of MIT and Columbia, made a last-minute plea in an open letter published on April 14 on the nuclear advocacy group's website, RePlaneteers, to keep the reactors operating. "In view of the threat that climate change poses to life on our planet and the obvious energy crisis in which Germany and Europe find themselves due to the unavailability of Russian natural gas, we call on you to continue operating the last remaining German nuclear power plants," the letter states. The Emsland, Isar II and Neckarwestheim II facilities provided more than 10 million German households with electricity, the open letter states. That's a quarter of the population. "This is hugely disappointing, when a secure low carbon 24/7 source of energy such as nuclear was available and could have continued operation for another 40 years," Henry Preston, spokesperson for the World Nuclear Association, told CNBC. "Germany's nuclear industry has been world class. All three of those reactors shut down at the weekend performed extremely well."

16 April 2023, Lower Saxony, Lingen: View of the defunct cooling tower of the Emsland nuclear power plant. With the separation of the Isar 2, Neckarwestheim and Emsland nuclear power plants from the power grid, the era of commercial power generation with nuclear power plants in Germany came to an end on Saturday. Picture Alliance | Picture Alliance | Getty Images

Despite the shutdown, some segments of nuclear industrial processes will continue to operate. "Germany's nuclear sector will continue to be first class in the wider nuclear supply chain in areas such as fuel fabrication and decommissioning," Preston told CNBC. While the open letter did not succeed in keeping the nuclear reactors open, it does underscore a crucial reason why nuclear power has been part of global energy conversations recently, after a generational lull in the construction of nuclear power plants: climate change. Generating electricity with nuclear reactors does not create any greenhouse gases. And as global climate change response efforts continue to fall short of emission targets, nuclear energy is getting renewed consideration. "Obviously many people in the nuclear industry are disappointed that the government that cares a lot about climate change is shutting massive sources of zero-carbon electric power," Victor told CNBC. That view was echoed by Hans von Storch, a climate researcher at the Institute for Coastal Research in Geesthacht, Germany, and a signatory of the open letter, told CNBC. "While a legitimate decision, it is not a wise decision," Storch told CNBC. "This out-phasing of nuclear, with existing plants, leads to an increase of greenhouse gas emissions in Germany, even though according to another political decision, the fast decarbonization should have priority." "For me, as a climate scientist, the whole thing is incomprehensible," Storch told CNBC.

Anti-nuclear movement supporters gather to celebrate the shuttering of Germany's last nuclear power plants on April 15, 2023 in Munich, Germany. Emsland, Neckarwestheim 2 and Isar 2 are Germany's last three operating nuclear power plants and are scheduled to cease operation tonight. Their closure was originally scheduled for December 31 of 2022, though Germany's government coalition extended their operation due to the turbulent energy market resulting from Russia's military invasion of Ukraine. The shuttering of the plants marks a historic chapter in German history and is being celebrated by Germany's decades-old, grassroots anti-nuclear movement. Johannes Simon | Getty Images News | Getty Images

Fear of accidents and a focus on renewables

The German government says it is making the country safer by closing down the nuclear reactors. "The nuclear phase-out makes Germany safer and avoids additional high-level radioactive waste. The risks of nuclear power are ultimately unmanageable. No insurance in the world covers the potentially catastrophic extent of damage from a nuclear accident," a spokesperson for the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection in Germany told CNBC. On June 30, 2011, "the nuclear phase-out law was passed with a broad, nonpartisan majority," the spokesperson told CNBC. Volker Quaschning, a professor of renewable energy at the Hochschule fur Technik und Wirtschaft Berlin, supports Germany closing its nuclear reactors because of the risk of an accident. "Nuclear energy is a risky technology. During the Chernobyl reactor accident, Germany was hit by radioactive fallout. A reactor accident in Germany would make large parts of the country uninhabitable. In the course of global uncertainties, the risks for nuclear energy are also increasing," Quaschning told CNBC. Also, radioactive waste management is "still unsolved in Germany," Quaschning told CNBC. "No one in Germany wants a repository for highly radioactive waste near them." Instead, the European country says it is focused on building out its wind and solar energy production. By 2030, Germany aims to generate 80 percent of its electricity from renewable energy sources like wind and solar. "We are now putting the policies in place for this and adapting the necessary legislation," the German government spokesperson told CNBC. Turning off the nuclear reactors opens the doors for renewables to be the future of energy, Niklas Hohne, a professor the mitigation of greenhouse gases at Wageningen University in the Netherlands, told CNBC. "In the German context, the phase-out of nuclear energy is good for the climate in the long term. It provides investment certainty for renewable energy; renewables will be much faster, cheaper and safer than expansion of nuclear energy," Hohne told CNBC. Nuclear energy is also often more expensive than wind and solar power, Quaschning said, adding, "there are no longer any real advantages with nuclear energy." "Nuclear power plants are a hindrance to the energy transition. They are not able to run in stop-and-go mode and cannot really compensate for power fluctuations that arise when using solar and wind energy. With Germany looking to expand solar and wind power very rapidly over the next few years, now is a good time to shut down nuclear reactors to make way for renewable energy," he said.
Shares of education technology company PowerSchool could see upside as the company focuses on cross-selling its large suite of products and expanding internationally, according to Goldman Sachs. Analyst Gabriela Borges upgraded the education technology stock to buy from neutral. Her $24 price target implies the stock will rally 20% from where it closed on Monday. "We believe the breadth of PowerSchool's platform is unique and this solidifies its leadership position," she said in a note to clients Tuesday. Shares were up nearly 3% in Tuesday trading. Despite the rally, the stock has fallen 10.3% so far this year. PWSC YTD mountain PowerSchool The company's offerings, which span state reporting, talent acquisition, registration, grading, testing and analytics, are used by 15,000 customers that represent more than 50 million students, or 80% of all U.S. and Canadian students in kindergarten through 12th grade. Among those clients are 90 of the top 100 districts in the U.S. Schools, districts and the government have attempted to improve online learning as the onset of the pandemic shuttered in-person instruction. In the aftermath, billions in federal aid has been put to work in a bid to close the learning gap left by the disruption. Still, Borges said many of the company's core offerings have only penetrated between 30% to 40% of the market. That means the company has room to grow within the market. Borges said the company largely drives growth through cross-selling given its large suite. Because the average customer uses two of the 19 total products available, PowerSchool still has a big opportunity to win over more business. Innovation within data analysis, with updates in the first half of the year coming to multiple products, can also help get clients to buy more of the suite, she added. The company saw net revenue retention hit 108% during the pandemic as schools pushed to improve the online learning experience. But that performance moderated in the second half of 2021 as a result of its acquisition of the platform Naviance and coming off strong 2020 bookings. In the second half of 2022, PowerSchool posted a 109% net revenue retention. Borges said the company should be able to continue at around that rate, with the majority of growth coming from cross-selling products. Looking internationally, Borges said 2023 and 2024 will be "pivotal" years for the company to expand its reach. The company could drive vendor consolidation in the international educational technology market, which she said is current fragmented. Partnerships and acquisitions can also help drive international expansion, Borges added. She estimated the total addressable market internationally is around $30 billion. PowerSchool has stated plans to grow its international business from under 2% of revenue to make up between $80 million and $100 million over the next three to five years, though Borges noted recent success in the international market could imply the company will beat those targets.  CNBC's Michael Bloom contributed to this report.
Greg Peters, Co-CEO of Netflix, speaks at a keynote on the future of entertainment at Mobile World Congress 2023.

Netflix on Tuesday posted mixed financial results and said it was pushing back its broad rollout of its password-sharing crackdown.

Originally, Netflix wanted the rollout to take place late in the first quarter, but on Tuesday it said it would do it in the second quarter.

"While this means that some of the expected membership growth and revenue benefit will fall in Q3 rather than Q2, we believe this will result in a better outcome from both our members and our business," the company said in its earnings release.

The company said it saw its subscriber growth impacted in the international markets where it has already rolled out such initiatives. Still, Netflix added 1.75 million subscribers, roughly in line with StreetAccount estimates.

Here are the results Netflix reported Tuesday versus estimates from analysts polled by Refinitiv:

Earnings per share: $2.88 vs $2.86 expected

$2.88 vs $2.86 expected Revenue: $8.16 billion vs $8.18 billion expected

For the quarter ended March 31, Netflix reported earnings of $1.31 billion, or $2.88 a share, compared with $1.6 billion, or $3.53 a share, a year earlier. Revenue grew to $8.16 billion from $7.87 billion in the prior-year period.

Shares of Netflix initially fell more than 10% but mostly recovered in after hours trading.

Netflix's crackdown on password sharing has been top of mind for investors. Late last year, the company said it would begin rolling out measures to have people who have been borrowing other accounts create their own.

The company has said more than 100 million households share accounts, or about 43% of its global user base. That has affected its ability to invest in new content, Netflix has said. Both the ad-supported option and crackdown on password sharing are meant to boost profits.

"The launch in Q2 will be broad, including the U.S. and the bulk of our countries when we think about it from a revenue perspective," said co-CEO Greg Peters on Tuesday's earnings call. Peters likened the paid sharing transition to that of increasing prices  subscribers initially balk and cancel, then slowly return and sign up for their own accounts.

In February, Netflix outlined password-sharing guidance in four countries: New Zealand, Canada, Portugal and Spain. The company said it would ask users in those countries to set a "primary location" for their accounts, and allow users to establish up to two "sub accounts" for those who don't live in their home base for extra fees.

Netflix said Tuesday it has been pleased with its push to mitigate password sharing. In Latin America, the company said it saw cancellations after the news was announced, which affected near-term growth. But, Netflix added, those password borrowers would later activate their own accounts ad add existing members as "extra member" accounts. As a result, the company said, it is seeing more revenue.

Canada, which will likely serve as a template for the U.S., has seen its membership base grow due to the launch of paid sharing, and revenue growth has accelerated and "is growing faster than in the U.S."

The company said that as it rolls out its paid sharing initiatives, it expects near term engagement  which is measured by Nielsen for its ad-supported tier  to "likely shrink modestly." Still, the company believes it will bounce back as its seen in international regions.
Netflix Co-Chief Executive Officer Greg Peters blamed a technical "bug" for why the company had to delay its "Love Is Blind" reunion special.

The reality TV special, originally set to run live at 8 p.m. ET Sunday night, eventually showed up on Netflix as a taped special on Monday.

"We're really sorry to have disappointed so many people," Peters said during the company's first-quarter earnings conference call Tuesday. "We didn't meet the standard that we expect from ourselves to serve our members."

Peters explained Netflix had accidentally introduced a bug in an attempt to improve live broadcasting after airing a Chris Rock comedy special, "Selective Outrage," last month. Netflix didn't notice the technical error in internal testing because the bug only showed itself under the strain of millions of simultaneous livestreams from its subscribers, he said.

"From a technical perspective, we've got the infrastructure," Peters said. "We hate it when these things, but we'll learn from it and we'll get better. We do have the fundamental infrastructure that we need."

About 6.5 million viewers ultimately watched the "Love Is Blind" special on Netflix, Peters added.

Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos said there will be more live specials for popular reality TV.

"A reunion show that's going to generate news and buzz, it really does play better live," Sarandos said. "We're super disappointed to not be able to come across with the live product for everyone who wanted it on the 'Love is Blind' reunion, but we're super thrilled people love the show. Some of those results oriented shows do play a little better live."

WATCH: Breaking down Netflix earnings
Norges Bank Investment Management CEO Nicolai Tangen says it is becoming increasingly important to identify as many "rotten apples" as it can.

Norway's gigantic sovereign wealth fund believes it is becoming increasingly important to identify as many "rotten apples" as possible, saying there is money to be saved by reducing risks to companies whose state of health is not all as it seems.

Speaking at a parliamentary hearing on Tuesday, Norges Bank Investment Management CEO Nicolai Tangen said that the fund lost a "considerable sum" during the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank  the largest failure of a U.S. bank since the 2008 global financial crisis. He did not specify exactly how much the fund lost.

"We think it's becoming more and more important to put resources into finding what I call the 'rotten apples.' These are companies whose state of health is perhaps not quite what it might appear," Tangen said.

"If we manage to find them early, there's money to be saved," he added, citing the Adani Group as one example.

The Indian conglomerate's stocks were battered in the wake of a critical report from U.S. short seller Hindenburg Research. The Jan. 24 report accused Adani Group companies of "brazen stock manipulation and accounting fraud"  allegations that the conglomerate has denied.

Tangen said Norway's sovereign wealth fund previously had holdings in several of Adani's companies, but had already sold these assets by the time Hindenburg's report came out and share prices started tumbling. As a result, he said the fund was able to escape most of the associated losses.

"That's active management. We'll never be able to spot all of the 'rotten apples', but we can try to find as many as we can."

CNBC has reached out to Adani Group for comment.
On the latest edition of Pro Talks, CNBC's Steve Sedgwick spoke to Ben Rogoff of Polar Capital about how to invest in the artificial intelligence segment of the stock market. The investment manager set up a fund focused on artificial intelligence a full 5 years ago  well before AI was on every investor's lips. He told Steve about this year's hot topic and different ways to get a piece of AI as an asset. They also discussed Big Tech versus small-cap stocks, and topics including cybersecurity, electric vehicles, cloud computing and more. Rogoff has more than 25 years of investing experience. He joined Polar Capital in 2003. He's the lead manager of the Polar Capital Technology Trust, and fund manager of the Polar Capital Global Technology Fund and the Automation and Artificial Intelligence Fund. The funds' top holdings include chip giants as well as software and other tech stocks such as Nvidia , Advanced Micro Devices , Microsoft and Apple . You can watch the full episode on CNBC's Pro Talks section. Learn more from our previous Pro Talks: Is Nvidia's valuation justified? One bullish fund manager gives two reasons to own the stock 'Data is the new oil': investor picks one stock to play the trend Investor says tech has yet to bottom  and reveals the mega-cap stocks to avoid Related coverage from Pro: Here's where to invest $10,000 right now, according to the pros A less obvious area in A.I. could be an $11 billion opportunity, Bernstein says  and names 4 stocks Bank of America just added this global stock with 60% upside to its top ideas list

On the latest edition of Pro Talks, CNBC's Steve Sedgwick spoke to Ben Rogoff of Polar Capital about how to invest in the artificial intelligence segment of the stock market. The investment manager set up a fund focused on artificial intelligence a full 5 years ago  well before AI was on every investor's lips. He told Steve about this year's hot topic and different ways to get a piece of AI as an asset. They also discussed Big Tech versus small-cap stocks, and topics including cybersecurity, electric vehicles, cloud computing and more. Rogoff has more than 25 years of investing experience. He joined Polar Capital in 2003. He's the lead manager of the Polar Capital Technology Trust, and fund manager of the Polar Capital Global Technology Fund and the Automation and Artificial Intelligence Fund. The funds' top holdings include chip giants as well as software and other tech stocks such as Nvidia , Advanced Micro Devices , Microsoft and Apple . You can watch the full episode on CNBC's Pro Talks section.
The chief executive of British power firm SSE says a rapid build-out of renewable projects can help the U.K. to secure its energy security and bring costs down for consumers.

"Consumers everywhere across Europe have seen prices rise significantly," SSE CEO Alistair Phillips-Davies told CNBC's Arabile Gumede from the firm's Viking Wind Farm in the Shetland Islands, Scotland.

"Across the U.K. and Ireland, markets that we really operate in, we've probably seen prices double over the last 18 months to two years, we can bring those costs down hugely by building more renewables, by getting the energy transition right in the sense of bringing energy home," Phillips-Davies said.

"We don't want to be importing oil and gas from far-flung places that we no longer want to deal with and where we no longer trust the regimes. Let's get back to building our own infrastructure, relying on what we've got and making sure not only we get it a lot cheaper but also, we have got a lot more security of supply because we're in control of it."

Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in Feb. 2022 prompted a radical upheaval of Europe's energy supplies. Moscow was formerly the region's top supplier of oil and gas imports.

Many countries in Europe have since pledged to end or restrict oil and gas imports from Russia as part of a concerted bid to hamper Russian President Vladimir Putin's ability to finance the war in Ukraine.

U.K. Energy Security Secretary Grant Shapps reaffirmed the government's plan to deliver greater energy independence last month, pledging to seek to power the country by switching to home-grown sources, including nuclear and renewables.

Asked whether the U.K. possessed enough wind energy to power at least most of the U.K., SSE's Phillips-Davies replied, "I definitely think the U.K. has got a huge amount of natural resources. We're up here in Shetlands now, the wind is blowing strongly, it is a very windy place all around the coast and shores as well."

He added, "Although we're here at a big onshore wind farm, what will be the most productive in the U.K., there are vast resources offshore as well. So, as we build more and more of that, I think we can drive closer and closer to that energy self-sufficiency  as long as we have enough storage and flexible backup for when the wind isn't blowing and the sun isn't shining."
China's economy boomed in the first three months of the year. In the U.S., regional banks' earnings reports weren't a disaster, but neither were they a picture of health.

This report is from today's CNBC Daily Open, our new, international markets newsletter. CNBC Daily Open brings investors up to speed on everything they need to know, no matter where they are. Like what you see? You can subscribe here .

China's economy is rebounding on multiple fronts, according to data released Tuesday by the country's National Bureau of Statistics. Last month, gross domestic product shot up, retail sales boomed, industrial output rose and fixed asset investment climbed.

Admittedly, some of those figures were lower than expected. Real estate investment declined, indicating China's property sector is still a weak point in the country's economy. Detractors can also point to China's lower-than-expected 0.7% rise in March's consumer price index, year on year, as a sign that consumption might not be as robust as retail sales suggest.

Indeed, the tepid reactions of stock markets on the mainland and in Hong Kong reinforce the idea that the red-hot numbers aren't as significant as they initially seem.

Meanwhile, regional banks in the U.S. began reporting results Monday. It wasn't the disaster many had feared, but it didn't paint a picture of health in the sector, either.

First, the good news. Charles Schwab's first-quarter net income rose 14% from a year ago to $1.6 billion, while its revenue increased 10% to $5.12 billion. Its revenue didn't reach Wall Street's estimate, but it's pretty remarkable the bank (which also functions as a brokerage) managed to increase its profit despite being one of the hardest-hit financial institutions amid SVB's collapse. Investors thought so too, pushing Charles Schwab shares 3.94% higher.

M&T Bank, a bank with assets of $201 billion (as of 2022), posted even better results. It beat first-quarter expectations on both the top and bottom lines, causing its stock to surge 7.78%.

But other banks didn't fare as well. State Street, which is a custodian bank that holds financial assets like stocks and bonds, saw a 5% decline in first-quarter net income, to $549 million, even though its total revenue rose. The report made investors unload State Street stock, which plunged 9.18%.

Bank of New York Mellon, another large custody bank, sank 4.59% after State Street posted its earnings.

Earnings aside, all banks that reported Monday revealed a drop in deposits. Those at State Street and M&T shrank about 3%, while Charles Schwab saw an 11% drop in deposits from the prior quarter. However, when juxtaposed against the banks' stock movement, it seems investors were more concerned about profitability than the size of deposits, which could be a promising signal that it's back to business as usual in the sector.

Subscribe here to get this report sent directly to your inbox each morning before markets open.
The MOL Maneuver container ship sails into port under the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge in the lower bay of New York Harbor on March 25, 2021, in New York City.

The Supreme Court ruled Tuesday that New Jersey can unilaterally withdraw from the longstanding Waterfront Commission Compact it has with New York to police corruption in the shipping industry in the major port the two states share.

All nine of the Supreme Court's justices voted to dismiss arguments by New York in favor of forcing New Jersey to stay in the compact.

Justice Brett Kavanaugh wrote the nine-page majority opinion in the case, which is a victory for container shipping companies and the International Longshoreman's Association, the union that represents dockworkers.

The ruling, which came after five years of litigation in federal district and appeals courts, hinged on the fact that the Waterfront Commission Compact does not explicitly bar either state from exiting the agreement.

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy in a statement said he was "thrilled" by the unanimous ruling in his state's favor, and that "New Jersey's sovereign right to govern our ports has been vindicated."

"Since the first hours of our time in office, my Administration has steadfastly pursued the dissolution of the Waterfront Commission because it was the right thing to do," Murphy said.

"Over 90 percent of commerce at our ports happens on the New Jersey side, and the New Jersey State Police, one of the finest law enforcement agencies in the nation, is more than capable of taking on the Commission's law enforcement and regulatory responsibilities."

The two-member Waterfront Commission was created in 1953 by New York and New Jersey to address labor corruption in the Port of New York and New Jersey. The entity oversees mandatory employment licensing for waterfront workers and conducts law enforcement probes in the port.

A year after the commission was created, the Marlon Brando movie "On the Waterfront" depicted the labor-related crime that the commission was set up to combat. The film won eight Academy Awards, including for best picture, best actor and best director.

New Jersey sought to withdraw from the Waterfront Commission in 2018, arguing that the compact had outlived its usefulness because organized crime no longer controlled hiring on the docks. The state also argued that the compact had throttled hiring on the docks.

By that time, the vast majority of cargo was being handled by workers on the New Jersey side of the port.

When the compact began, about 70% of waterfront employees worked on the New York side.

New York opposed New Jersey's bid to exit the compact, arguing that would harm efforts to fight crime on the docks.

New York claimed that the agreement "does not allow either State to unilaterally withdraw," Kavanaugh noted in his opinion.

However, Kavanaugh added, while the compact explicitly says that both states must agree on making any amendments or supplements, it "does not address each State's power to unilaterally withdraw."

"It neither expressly allows nor expressly proscribes unilateral withdrawal," he wrote.

"That is in contrast to some other interstate companies, which do expressly allow, prohibit or limit unilateral withdrawal," Kavanaugh wrote.

Kavanaugh also wrote that "principles of state sovereignty likewise support New Jersey's position."

"Here, the Compact involves the delegation of a fundamental aspect of a State's sovereign power  its ability to protect the people, property, and economic activity within its borders  to a bistate agency," he wrote.

"We draw further guidance from the fact that, as is undisputed, New York and New Jersey never intended for the Compact and Commission to operate forever," Kavanaugh wrote.

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and Attorney General Letitia James said in a statement: "We are disappointed by the Supreme Court's decision to allow New Jersey to unilaterally withdraw from the Waterfront Commission."

"For decades, the Waterfront Commission has been a vital law enforcement agency, protecting essential industries at the port and cracking down on organized crime," Hochul and James said. "We will continue to do everything in our power to combat corruption and crime, protect the health of our economy, and ensure the safety of New Yorkers."
A screen set up at a hall of the Moscow City Court shows live feed of the verdict in the case against Russian opposition figure Vladimir Kara-Murza, who is accused of treason and spreading "false" information about the Russian army, in Moscow on April 17, 2023.

There's been an international outcry after a Russian court sentenced Kremlin critic Vladimir Kara-Murza to 25 years in prison for treason, and other charges including spreading "false" information about the Russian army.

The U.S., U.K. and Germany condemned the sentence with London calling the conviction of Kara-Murza, an opposition politician, journalist, and human rights activist in Russia and a British dual national, "politically motivated."

The U.K's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office has summoned the Russian ambassador Andrey Kelin, and said it would "make clear that the U.K. considers Mr Kara-Murza's conviction to be contrary to Russia's international obligations on human rights, including the right to a fair trial."

Britain's Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said "Russia's lack of commitment to protecting fundamental human rights, including freedom of expression, is alarming. We continue to urge Russia to adhere to its international obligations including Vladimir Kara-Murza's entitlement to proper healthcare."

The U.S. embassy in Russia said in a statement that "the court's decision today to sentence Vladimir Kara-Murza to 25 years in prison for expressing an opinion critical of the policies of his government is another terrible sign of the repression that has taken hold in Russia. We call for his immediate release."

Elsewhere, the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk said in a statement that the 25-year prison sentence was "another blow to the rule of law and civic space in the Russian Federation."

"No one should be deprived of their liberty for exercising their human rights, and I call on the Russian authorities to release him without delay," Turk said.

 Holly Ellyatt
Analysts are still bullish on Alphabet despite a news report that Samsung is considering replacing Google as the default search engine on its devices. A weekend report from The New York Times said Samsung is thinking of switching its default search engine to Microsoft's Bing. Samsung represents roughly 27% of the smartphone market and has a 60% share of Android phones, according to Barclays. Alphabet shares closed lower by more than 2% on Monday and are down less than 1% on Tuesday. Barclays estimates that Samsung represents about $20 billion of Google's gross revenue and $7.3 billion of operating income. If the cellphone maker were to move away from the search engine, Google may have to recapture 70% of lost queries organically to recoup the lost operating income, the firm found. But analysts at firms including UBS and Evercore ISI remain upbeat on Alphabet's stock. They note that Samsung could simply be posturing in order to get a better deal from Google in their latest round of negotiations. "We see the risk as low because 1) if consumers shift defaults back to Google, Samsung risks getting no rev-share at all and 2) we think Microsoft would struggle to monetize like Google  given the scale of its ad business (UBS Software Team ests Bing gross revs at $10.5B in FY23), esp outside the US," UBS analyst Lloyd Walmsley wrote in a Monday note. UBS maintained its buy rating on Alphabet with a price target of $123 per share, which represents roughly 16% upside from Monday's closing price. GOOGL YTD mountain Shares of Google-parent Alphabet are trading lower again on Tuesday after a Monday report from the New York Times disclosed a possible switch to Bing search for Samsung smart phones. Elsewhere, Evercore ISI's Mark Mahaney reiterated an outperform rating on Alphabet on Tuesday. He thinks Google will remain the search engine heavyweight and successfully integrate Bard to rival Bing's use of ChatGPT. "We believe the market may under-appreciate the strength of Google's existing LLMs (large language models) like Bard (which we have tested over the past few weeks), and our working assumption is that Google will successfully rebuild its Search engine to include LLM responses when appropriate, maintaining both its Search market share and its very profitable unit economics," Mahaney said. Evercore has a price target of $125 per share on Alphabet, which equates to roughly 18% upside from Monday's close. Bank of America is also sticking with its buy rating for Alphabet and has a $125 price target. The firm is bullish on the stock but noted the potential long-term headwinds that a deal between Microsoft and Samsung would bring. "As of now, the impact of AI chat integration on future search share is open for debate, but a change in a large distribution deal could fuel the bear case on Google," Bank of America research analyst Justin Post wrote Monday. "At the very least, Apple and Samsung could try to leverage a renewed Bing for better economics vs. Google, so we see Google's strong consumer brand value and Google making high-profile progress in search results as imperative." Barclays rates Alphabet as overweight with the most bullish outlook for the stock with a $160 price target, which represents more than 50% upside. The firm posits that Samsung could take a step even further in moving away from Google given that Microsoft could launch a new app store , although it may be too early to predict. "It's possible that Samsung is just moving away from Google entirely, in light of the possibility of the Android economics going away," Barclays internet analyst Ross Sandler wrote Monday. "But it also begs the question of whether the governments world-wide will view a Samsung-Microsoft partnership as good news from a competitive standpoint, or whether it's just two more mega-cap technology players entering tying agreements."  CNBC's Michael Bloom contributed to this report.
Shares of Tata Chemicals fell over 6 percent on Tuesday after the company cut prices for for light and dense soda ash by 3-4 percent across India effective April 17, according to Kotak Institutional Equities.

The brokerage wrote in its note that the decision to cut prices has come amid falling soda ash prices in China since mid-March after the unexpected news of substantial capacity addition in the Inner Mongolia region from May 2023.

This is the second Soda Ash price cut undertaken by Tata Chemicals over the last six months.

Kotak sees this development as an incremental negative for soda ash prices going ahead. It highlighted that uncertainties remain around the demand and supply of soda ash.

Tata Chemicals is expected to take a hit on its profits as the soda ash business contributes around 15-20 percent to its consolidated operating profit or Ebitda, the note said. (earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation).

However, Kotak said that the price cuts should at least, partially, be mitigated by lower coal prices.

The equity research firm also expected Tata Chemicals March quarter earnings to be strong due to firm realisations on US exports. However, the outlook for the second half of the calendar year 2023 is less clear due to the slowing demand from the construction and automotive sectors in the US and the influx of additional capacities from China and the US.

Kotak has maintained its buy rating on the stock with a price target of Rs 1,210.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 18)  Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos said the CCTV footage of the 6.7 billion drug bust last October is in itself a statement of what happened after the country's police chief asked for evidence to back his claims of an alleged cover-up within the police force.

In law, there is the principle of RES IPSA LOQUITUR, Abalos wrote in a Facebook post on Tuesday. The thing speaks for itself. The video in itself is a statement of what transpired.

Last week, Abalos alleged that some high-ranking police officials may have been involved in an attempt to cover up the arrest of anti-narcotics officer Sergeant Rodolfo Mayo after some 990 kilos of shabu were seized from his property in Tondo, Manila.

In a briefing, he presented CCTV footage of the anti-drug operation which showed Mayo being handcuffed and uncuffed multiple times. According to Abalos, the events were different from the narration contained in the PNP reports.

Police officers were also found to have pilfered 42 kilos  worth over 285 million  of shabu from the drug haul, the Cabinet official said.

RELATED: PNP to file administrative, criminal raps vs. 49 PDEG officials

But Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Rodolfo Azurin Jr. on Monday denied the cover-up accusations against his men, calling these very unfair.

Let us show proof before we even accuse, he said.

Azurin added that Abalos, who supervises the PNP as head of the Interior department, may have been fed with misinformation to cast doubt on the integrity of the organization.

Abalos, however, stood by his move to name police officials who were allegedly in connivance with Mayo.

While I respect General Azurin, I am sure he agrees with me that the public deserves to know the truth, he said.

Hindi lamang sa isyu ng 42 kilos kundi higit sa lahat sa kung ano ang nangyari sa 900 kilos na nakumpiska [Not only on the issue of the 42 kilos of shabu, but more importantly, on what happened to the confiscated 900 kilos]," Abalos added.

The secretary also said that he trusts that the National Police Commission will thoroughly investigate the matter.

READ: There are still missing illegal drugs from 6.7-B shabu haul, PNP admits
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 18) --- The Austrian government said it is looking forward to accepting more Filipino workers, with over 200,000 job openings available in the coming years.

In a joint statement by the Department of Migrant Workers and the Austrian Delegation on the Hiring of Filipino Workers for Austria, the country needs from 60,000 to 75,000 healthcare workers, with an additional 200,000 job openings across all industries.

Our partnership with the Philippine government through the DMW will create a win-win situation, providing employment opportunities for skilled Filipino workers while contributing to the growth of Austrias economy, said Austrian Ambassador to the Philippines Johann Brieger.

Meanwhile, DMW Secretary Susan Ople said a memorandum of agreement must be signed with the Austrian government on the plan to hire Filipino workers.

Upon the advice of the Department of Foreign Affairs, we would need to sign a Memorandum of Understanding to set the tone and define the parameters of our partnership with the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber and the Federal State of Vienna, Secretary Ople said.

According to Ople, both the Philippines and Austria belong to the Tier 1 category in the US State Departments Trafficking in Persons Report, which means they have sufficient mechanisms and laws to prevent human trafficking.

Data from the DMW showed there are around 5,824 overseas Filipino workers in Austria, with around 1,220 of them working in the hospitality and food service sector, and 749 in the health and social work service.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 18)  The camp of slain Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo on Tuesday said it has evidence that may prove the connection of embattled Rep. Arnolfo Teves, who was tagged as the mastermind of the murder, to terrorist groups.

We have evidence to prove that Congressmen Teves could be connected with terrorist groups as well as having committed separate acts of terrorism, Levito Baligod, the lawyer of the Degamo family, told CNN Philippines The Source.

During a Senate committee hearing on Monday, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said authorities are looking at designating the suspended lawmaker as a terrorist.

This comes as Teves continuously refuses to return to the Philippines since he flew to the United States late February and face the allegations against him.

According to Baligod, the suspended lawmaker has committed political terrorism in connection with the killings he allegedly orchestrated.

The several killings there are meant to put the community in fear and that is for the political ends of the Teves, he noted.

Aside from Degamos death, Teves is also facing multiple murder complaints in relation to the killings of at least four individuals in 2019.

Teves has maintained his innocence.

Baligod said it is also possible that the congressmans brother, former Negros Oriental Gov. Pryde Teves, has links to the killings and militant groups. This is following the recovery of improvised explosive devices (IED) in the sugar mill compound the latter partly owns.

Pryde Teves is the president of the company that owns the premises where the IEDs were recovered. I was told nothing moves there without him knowing it, the counsel said.

Baligod noted that these confiscated explosive devices are composed of two types of pipe bombs. One is made with PVC which is usually used by the New People's Army, and another uses metal pipes which is used by the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and the Jemaah Islamiyah, he added.

The more important question here is who brought that technology to the hands of Teves because not any ordinary police or military know bomb technology, Baligod pointed out.

During the continuation of the Senate hearing on Tuesday, Pamplona town Mayor Janice Degamo, widow of the governor, also emphasized that only terrorist groups are in possession of bombs.

When a terrorist group is in possession of bombs at dumating ito sa pamamahay, sa residente, sa lupain ng kung sinumang tao, dapat may managot dyan (and these are seen in someone else's house, residence, or land, someone should be held responsible), meaning to say these people are in communication with terrorists, she said.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 18)  Senator Ronald Bato dela Rosa denied allegations circulating online that he is being paid by Negros Oriental 3rd district Representative Arnolfo Arnie Teves Jr. while he chairs the committee looking into the murder of the congressmans political rival, Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo.

I just would like to clarify some malicious allegations circulating in the social media, particularly in Negros Oriental, na ako daw [that I], being the chairman of this committee, is biased to Teves because ako daw ay bayad ni Teves. Ako daw ay tuta ni Teves [I am said to be paid by Teves. They say Im Teves lapdog], Dela Rosa said during a hearing of his Senate public order and dangerous drugs committee on Tuesday.

I will answer that allegation  Hindi po ako kaya bayaran kahit gaano pa kayaman si Teves. Hindi po kaya bayaran ako ng kahit sinuman [Teves can't pay me no matter how rich he is. No one can pay me], the senator stressed.

His panel is on the second day of its public hearings into the death of Degamo, who was gunned down in broad daylight inside his residential compound on March 4.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla earlier said Teves appears to be the main mastermind behind the murder.

Dela Rosa also refuted claims that his wife, Nancy, is related to the Teves family.

Ang asawa ko po ay merong auntie na pinsan ng kanyang mother na married to a Teves diyan sa Dumaguete. Pero itong Teves na ito is not in anyway related to the Teves family of Arnie Teves, Dela Rosa stressed.

[Translation: My wife has an aunt who is her mother's cousin who is married to a Teves in Dumaguete. But this Teves is not in anyway related to the family of Arnie Teves.]

Call for Teves to physically attend hearings still stands

The Senate continues to urge Teves to physically attend hearings, according to Dela Rosa.

Our invitation to Rep. Arnie Teves to physically attend this hearing is still standing, Dela Rosa said as his panel resumed its inquiry.

Should he decide to attend, we have assured him of his safety inside and outside the premises with the help of Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos, he added.

Teves is under a 60-day suspension after he refused to return to the country following the expiration of his travel authority issued by Congress. He flew to the United States late February for medical treatment.

His whereabouts has since been a mystery, with reports saying he was spotted in Cambodia last week and recently in South Korea. Teves refused to comment on these reports.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 18)  The Department of Health on Tuesday said it will not recommend the return of mandatory face mask use despite the rise in COVID-19 cases.

DOH officer-in-charge Maria Rosario Vergeire said the positivity rate, or the percentage of tested people with positive COVID-19 results, is on the rise. From 6.9% last week or an average of 274 cases per day, it is now at 7.6% nationwide or an average of 371 new infections daily.

She said this cannot be considered an alarming spike, adding cases are expected to rise depending on activities like long holidays.

"Hindi tayo nagko-consider ibalik ang masking mandate," she said in a media briefing. "This is voluntary. Wala pang napag-uusapan sa ngayon."

[Translation: We are not considering to bring back the masking mandate. This remains voluntary. We are not discussing its reimposition.]

The health official encouraged the public to wear masks in crowded areas, places with poor ventilation, and if they have an existing illness.

Vergeire also reminded the public to make sure their vaccination and booster shots are up-to-date.

She added DOH has approved the guidelines for the rollout of second booster shots for the general adult population. She said it will be cascaded to all local government units soon.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 18)  The Department of Health on Tuesday warned fisherfolk and tourists from conducting water-related activities in most parts of Puerto Galera after it failed environmental tests following a massive oil spill.

Health officer-in-charge Maria Rosario Vergeire said only nine stations passed the standards of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, while 26 out of 35 areas in Puerto Galera failed the test.

Last week, Oriental Mindoro Gov. Humerlito Dolor bared that Puerto Galera failed four water quality tests. However, Puerto Galera Mayor Rocky Ilagan maintained the tourist destination is not affected by the oil slick  refusing to impose a fishing and swimming ban.

Today, Vergeire made a categorical warning against water activities in the 26 areas due to health hazards.

"Sa Puerto Galera, sana maiwasan muna natin itong mga recreational at occupational activities diyan because this might cause harm to the health of the community. Nakitaan nating medyo mataas ang contaminants for oil and average grease sa mga lugar," she said in a media briefing.

[Translation: I hope we can avoid recreational and occupational activities in Puerto Galera because this might cause harm to the health of the community. We saw a high level of contaminants for oil and grease in the area.]

DOH has yet to respond to queries on the 26 areas that flunked the water quality check.

Ilagan also cited Vergeire's previous statement that DOH is not recommending a ban on water activities in Puerto Galera due to inconclusive water safety test results. But the top health official clarified the agency's position.

"Hindi na tayo maghihintay ng patuloy na test. Nakakita tayo ng accurate results," she said.

[Translation: We will not wait for more test results. We have now seen accurate results.]

Environment Secretary Toni Yulo-Loyzaga said she hopes the local government will "take notice of" the warning of DOH.

DOH reported that there are no new cases of oil spill-related illnesses in Puerto Galera, citing the improvement in preventive measures employed by Governor Dolor.

MT Empress Princess, owned by RDC Reield Marine Services Inc., sank off Oriental Mindoro on Feb. 28 while carrying 800,000 liters of industrial fuel, causing a massive oil spill.

According to the Oriental Mindoro Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), 143 barangays and 121,292 individuals were affected by the oil spill.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 18)  A farmers group on Tuesday said the Department of Agriculture (DA) has yet to initiate a serious discussion to prepare local producers for the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), which it said may hurt their sector.

Raul Montemayor, national manager of the Federation of Free Farmers, said the DA must lead an in-depth discussion on how Filipino farmers can handle the effects of the RCEP, a mega-trade deal among 15 economies in the Asia Pacific region.

He also dismissed DAs current programs for the industry as ineffective in terms of preparing us for trade.

Ang hinahanap sana namin mga bagong [What were looking at are new] strategies, approaches that we will try out so that we will improve our competitiveness in terms of being able to export more products and at the same time our defensive interests in protecting our vulnerable sectors, Montemayor said during the first briefing of the Senate Special Oversight Committee on RCEP.

So far there has been no serious, in-depth discussion on this front. There is no dedicated discussion on how to prepare our farmers for trade and RCEP, he added.

In response, DA Usec. Mercedita Agcaoili Sombilla said Montemayors concerns could be discussed in the departments international trade committee.

Moving forward, there is a plan to establish four core groups under that committee: one group would look into concerns regarding smuggling, one on trade negotiations, one on assessment of free trade agreements, and export promotion. This would indeed help, Sombilla said.

She also said organizations must be more collaborative and not just criticize the efforts of the department.

RCEP is set to take effect in the country by June 2. It is designed to eliminate tariff rates  or the taxes imposed on imported products  on 90% of goods between signatories within 20 years.

READ: EXPLAINER: What is RCEP? Will PH benefit from it?

During the same briefing, former Agriculture Secretary Leonardo Montemayor, board chairman of the Federation of Free Farmers, said groups in opposition to RCEP would launch a campaign that would serve as a watchdog to RCEP commitments.

He earlier warned of a potential surge in imported agricultural products which could adversely affect the livelihood of local farmers.

DA allots 2.2B to boost quarantine controls for agri imports

The DA has set aside 2.2 billion to boost the Philippines border and quarantine controls ahead of an expected influx of imported agricultural goods following the effectivity of RCEP.

Sombilla told a Senate panel that the budget is ready.

Together with the Bureau of Customs, the agency is looking for areas in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao where a cold examination facility can be put up to facilitate processes related to sanitary and phytosanitary clearances, Sombilla said.

A number of agricultural groups had previously expressed opposition to the Philippines joining the RCEP, as they warned of a possible rise in cheaper products that could affect farmers earnings.

Farmer groups who joined the Senate committee hearing voiced their concern over the competitiveness of local agricultural output versus foreign inflows. They sought a measuring stick to gauge how RCEP will benefit the sector, including the generation of jobs.

Legarda asked the National Economic and Development Authority and the Philippine Statistics Authority to generate that data annually from June 2 this year.

CNN Philippines senior correspondent Lois Calderon contributed to this report.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 18)  There's enough power supply now but reserves are thin, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) said Tuesday, citing the Department of Energy.

The OCD, however, said it expects a bump in supply in the coming months as the Ilijan LNG Power Plant and the First Gen Power Plant come back on line.

"Although manipis sa ngayon iyong reserba pero pagdating ng June or July, it was reported July madadagdagan or mabubuhay muli iyong Ilijan LNG Power Plant at madadagdagan din ng isa pa, iyong First Gen Power Plant totaling at least additional 1,200 megawatts of additional supply," OCD undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno told a briefing.

[Translation: Although reserves are thin right now, but come June or July, it was reported that in July the LNG Power Plant will come up along with the First Gen Power Plant totaling at least 1,200 megawatts of additional supply.]

Nepomuceno made the announcement after a meeting with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., where the OCD and other government agencies discussed measures to be taken to mitigate the effects of El Nino.

Meanwhile, the latest report from the Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities (ICSC) warned of possible yellow alerts for the Luzon grid beginning April 24 due to increased power demand.

"Higher demand during summer lowers the available generating capacity from Weeks 17 (April 24 to 30) to 24 (June 12 to 18) of 2023. The supply can further deplete as forced outages of large baseload power plants can unexpectedly occur in these times, likely pushing the system into yellow alert and near red alert levels," said ICSC chief data scientist Jephraim Manansala.

The ICSC noted that among the measures the government must take to prevent power supply from falling under red alert levels are to ensure ancillary services are in place and that committed power projects be completed on time.

A shift to "flexible and distributed power generation using indigenous and readily available renewable energy sources" is needed to provide secure and reliable power for all, said Manansala.

"Apart from the government and key power sector players, we need the cooperation of consumers in ensuring the continuous supply of electricity in Luzon," he added.

CNN Philippines' Rex Remitio and Pia Garcia contributed to this story.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 18)  Former Negros Oriental Gov. Pryde Teves on Tuesday maintained that the makeshift firing range at the sugar mill he partly owns was never used during the days leading to the murder of Gov. Roel Degamo.

Speaking to CNN Philippines The Source, he noted the dates he was in the property, adding that If there was a practice there would have been gunfire. I would have heard it if it happened.

Pamplona town Mayor Janice Degamo, widow of the slain governor, during a Senate committee hearing on Monday questioned the legality of the firing range. She asked if the facility and the shooting activities being conducted there were registered.

If not, they might add this as one of the complaints they will be filing against him since some of the suspects claimed they practiced shooting inside a sugar mill, she added.

Teves admitted to operating such a facility which has been existing since the early 2000s. He noted they only use this once a month or once every two months for pastime.

If a complaint is filed, he said he will be ready to face it.

In the same hearing, authorities confirmed that there is no registered shooting range in the sugar mill.

Sen. Ronald Bato dela Rosa then told Teves that the shooting activities being held in his property are illegal.

Teves said he already made a commitment to register future firing activities that he will be conducting in his property.

The former Negros Oriental governor is the brother of suspended Congressman Arnolfo Teves, the alleged mastermind of Degamos assassination.

READ: Degamo camp backs plan to tag Cong. Teves as terrorist; says Pryde Teves possibly also linked
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 18)  The governor of Pampanga announced a reward of 1 million for the capture of the suspects behind the shooting of provincial legal officer Atty. Gerome Tubig on Monday.

In a statement, Governor Dennis Pineda strongly condemned the attack on Tubig, who sustained gunshot wounds and is currently being treated in a hospital.

Isang milyong piso po (1 million) ang pabuya na aking ibibigay sa sinumang makakapagbigay ng tamang impormasyon ukol sa mga pangalan at lokasyon ng mga salarin, Pineda said in a social media post hours after the incident.

[Translation: I will give 1 million as reward to anyone who could provide correct information on the names and locations of the suspects.]

Inutusan ko po si Pampanga Police Director Col. Levy Hope Basilio na alamin ang motibo, hulihin, kasuhan at ikulong ang mastermind at gunmen sa krimen na ito," he added.

[Translation: I ordered Pampanga Police Director Col. Levy Hope Basilio to determine the motive behind the crime, as well as to catch, charge and put the mastermind and gunmen behind bars.]

Authorities said the slay attempt occurred in front of a hospital in Barangay Sto. Rosario in the City of San Fernando around 7:30 a.m.

According to police, Tubig arrived at the parking lot in front of the hospital when two unidentified men onboard a single motorcycle and wearing helmets shot him several times before fleeing the scene.

The legal officer immediately received medical treatment, they said.

In another post on Tuesday morning, Pineda asked for continued prayers for Tubigs recovery and assured that measures are being taken to ensure his safety.

Milagro po ng Panginoon na buhay siya at ipinaglalaban ang kanyang buhay, the governor said. Patuloy din po ang mahigpit na pagbabantay sa kanya ng PNP (Philippine National Police).

[Translation: Its a miracle that he survived and continues to fight for his life. The PNP also continues to closely monitor him.]
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 18)  The wife of slain Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo on Tuesday bared she has a video of her husband saying that former governor Henry Pryde Teves and suspended congressman Arnie Teves are the source of threats to his life.

During the Senate hearing on the killing, Pamplona Mayor Janice Degamo said the video was taken while they were on their way to Manila for her husbands oath taking.

He mentioned their names to be the source of threats to his life, the widow said.

READ: Degamo's widow says nabbed mastermind had plans to kill gov since 2020

Mayor Degamo also claimed the Teves brothers are involved in other brazen and politically motivated killings in Negros Oriental.

She said for more than a decade, the residents suffered in silence in the face of tyranny, oppression, violence, impunity, and of excessive abuse of power and influence.

Former governor Henry and Arnie should be answerable for the things that they did to our province, to our people, she added. The culture of violence and silence has to end. It is about time for the people of Negros Oriental to stand up and fight for justice that has been denied to them."

READ: IDs, documents of Degamo gunmen found in Teves sugar mill

On Monday, the Philippine National Police-Crime Investigation and Detection Group reported there were 40 politically motivated shooting in the province from 2016 to present.

Mayor Degamo also claimed the Teves brothers have established a culture of fear in government agencies in the province, hence cases filed against them and their allies did not progress.

May problema tayo na kapag Teves ang kalaban, walang tatanggap sayo. Minsan ang piskal pa mismo ang magdadala ng papel at i-encourage ka na umatras na lang, she said.

[Translation: There is a problem that if you are going against a Teves, no lawyer will accept you. Sometimes the prosecutor will be the one to bring the paper and encourage you to just back off.]
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 19)  At least 5.3 million in revenue would be lost on a daily basis if Puerto Galera would be closed to tourism due to the oil spill in Oriental Mindoro, Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco said Tuesday.

In a Palace briefing, Frasco said the Department of Tourism (DOT) "perceives with great concern" the financial impact of the oil spill in the province, which is estimated at 900 million overall.

The DOT chief added that Puerto Galera is a "top-rated destination," which accounts for 85% of Oriental Mindoros tourism economy.

"According to statistics, should Puerto Galera be closed to tourism, there is a projected loss of no less than at least 5.3 million a day," Frasco said.

She said the destination saw 500 million in tourism receipts from international arrivals in 2022 while as much as 1.2 billion in tourism revenue could be collected when at its peak.

"The most important thing right now, as far as tourism is concerned, is to really ensure the continued viability of Puerto Galera as a tourism destination, considering that no less than 11,000 tourism workers depend on the industry continuing to be open," Frasco said.

Frasco also assured that the DOT is working closely with involved agencies for easy coordination between the national and the local governments of Oriental Mindoro and Puerto Galera.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources reported that only nine of the 35 sampling stations in Puerto Galera met the criteria for water quality guidelines. Twenty-six areas in Puerto Galera failed the water quality test due to traces of oil and grease.

RELATED: DOH warns vs fishing, swimming after most parts of oil spill-hit Puerto Galera fail test
(CNN)  The Group of Seven (G7) advanced economies stressed their solidarity against Russias assault on Ukraine, and called on China to abstain from threats, in a communique Tuesday following talks in Japan.

The blocs top diplomats promised severe consequences for any use of chemical, biological or nuclear weapons by Russia in the on-going conflict in Ukraine, and pledged that those supporting the Kremlins war effort there would face severe costs. In particular, they pointed to Russias threat to deploy nuclear weapons in neighboring Belarus.

The ministers also called on China to abstain from threats, coercion, intimidation, or the use of force and raised serious concerns about the situation in the East and South China Seas  opposing militarization of the South China Sea, while presenting a unified front on Taiwan.

There is no change in the basic positions of the G7 members on Taiwan, including stated one China policies, their communique said, which also reaffirmed the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait as an indispensable element in security and prosperity in the international community.

That statement, which goes further than typical language in recent communiques, comes after French President Emmanuel Macron sparked controversy among western allies earlier this month for telling reporters Europe must not become just Americas followers, including over the issue of Taiwan.

The statement appeared to soften Europes reaction to a potential conflict involving a Chinese invasion of the self-governing island democracy, which Chinas Communist Party claims as its own despite never having controlled.

Macron has since sought to downplay his comments, made during his recent state visit to China, saying on Wednesday that France was for the status quo in Taiwan and that his countrys position has not changed.

Following his departure, China held three days of military drills in the air and sea around the island, in retaliation for a visit between US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen  a meeting Beijing claims is in violation of its sovereignty.

The G7 foreign ministers said, however, that they recognized the importance of engaging candidly with and expressing our concerns directly to China and working together with Beijing on global challenges, according to the statement.

Wen-Ti Sung, a political scientist at the Australian National Universitys Taiwan Studies Program, said that as far as Taiwan is concerned, the communique appeared to see the G7 balancing two competing priorities.

They underscore the interdependence between peace and stability of the Taiwan Strait and that of the broader international community, but also reassure Beijing they do not support Taiwan independence, he said. He pointed to the language referring to one China policies or agreements by which governments have established diplomatic relations with Beijing and not Taipei.

This years G7 meetings are hosted by the blocs only Asian member. The communique was released as the foreign ministers wrapped up three days of talks in the central Japanese town of Karuizawa in Nagano prefecture.

Next month leaders from the member countries, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, as well as representatives from the European Union, will gather for a summit in Hiroshima.

In their communique Tuesday, the blocs foreign ministers stressed their interest in working together in the Indo-Pacific  a region now viewed by the US as a key theater for its competition with China.

The statement also touched on a number of global issues, including condemning North Koreas weapons testing and nuclear programs, as well as the military coup in Myanmar and an deadly April 11 airstrike by the Myanmar military that left civilians, including children dead.

The minister also urged fighting parties in the recent outbreak of violence in Sudan to end hostilities immediately, and return to negotiations.

This story was first published on CNN.com, "G7 foreign ministers show unified front as they condemn Russias war, call out Chinas coercion"
(CNN)  Gunfire, explosions and overhead fighter jets were heard across Sudans capital Khartoum on Tuesday, as gunmen stormed the homes of people working for the United Nations and other international organizations, amid conflicting reports of an agreed ceasefire in the country.

Fighting between the countrys armed forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) is in its fourth day in Khartoum both near the army command and the presidential palace, and close to two RSF bases to the north and west of the capital.

Residents remain trapped in the middle elsewhere in the country; 11 people were killed in the western region of North Darfur and dozens injured, including children, over the past 48 hours, medical charity Medecins Sans Frontieres said. On Monday, UN officials said at least 180 people had been killed and 1,800 others injured, according to UN officials on Monday.

Armed personnel raided the homes of UN staff and employees of other international organizations in downtown Khartoum, according to reports in an internal UN document seen by CNN.

According to the document, the gunmen sexually assaulted women and stole belongings including cars. In Khartoum armed uniformed personnel, reportedly from RSF, are entering the residences of expats, separating men and women and taking them away, reads the report. One incident of rape was also reported.

CNN has been unable to independently verify these reports and has reached out to the RSF for comment.

Khartoum has been wracked by violence and chaos in a bloody tussle for power between Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, Sudans military leader, and Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, also known as Hemedti, who is head of the RSF.

The two leaders have traded blame for instigating the fighting and breaking temporary ceasefires.

Meanwhile, tense efforts to establish a ceasefire have ramped up despite confusion over whether one will be upheld.

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk called for an immediate cessation to hostilities in Sudan, in a statement released Tuesday.

The statement says Turk pleaded with the rival forces to return to the negotiating table. Turk appealed to the clashing forces to consider the impact on the civilians living in Sudan who only crave a peaceful life.

Students trapped as clashes intensify

For more than three days, students at the University of Khartoum have been trapped inside campus buildings as artillery and gunfire rain down around them in Sudans capital. It is scary that our country will turn into a battlefield overnight, said 23-year-old Al-Muzaffar Farouk, one of 89 students, faculty members and staff sheltering inside the university library.

Food and water are running low, but leaving is not an option  one student has already been killed by gunfire outside. Khalid Abdulmunem had been trying to run to the library from a nearby building when he was struck, said Farouk.

The students retrieved his body and brought it inside despite the bullets that were falling on us, he added.

The university confirmed Abdulmunems death in a Facebook post, saying he had been shot in the campus surroundings. In a separate post on Monday, the university urged humanitarian organizations to help evacuate dozens of people stranded on campus.

Eyewitnesses described the scenes across the Sudanese capital.

I can see outside smoke rising from buildings. And I can hear from my residence blasts, heavy gunfire from outside. The streets are totally empty, said Red Cross staffer Germain Mwehu from Khartoum.

In the building where I stay, I saw families with children, children crying when there are airstrikes, children horrified, Mwehu said, adding that people had little to no access to food or medicine given the fierce fighting outside.

Children are among those killed; a 6-year-old child died on Monday after the RSF shelled a hospital in Khartoum and damaged a maternity ward. Medics were forced to evacuate, leaving patients behind  some just newborns in incubators.

At least half a dozen hospitals have been struck by both warring sides, according to Sudans Doctors Trade Union.

Multiple diplomats and humanitarian workers have been targeted.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken confirmed there was an attack on a US diplomatic convoy on Monday.

Yesterday, we had an American diplomatic convoy that was fired on. All of our people are safe, but this the action was reckless, it was irresponsible and, of course, unsafe, Blinken said in a press conference on Tuesday.

The European Union ambassador to Sudan was also assaulted in his residency on Monday, though he is now doing fine, according to a spokesperson for the EUs top diplomat.

And three workers from the UNs World Food Programme (WFP) were killed in Darfur, prompting the WFP to temporarily halt all services in the country.

In statements early Tuesday morning, the two rival factions pointed fingers at each other.

The RSF accused the army of conducting airstrikes on residential neighborhoods and of attacking the EU ambassadors headquarters in Khartoum; meanwhile, the army accused the RSF of targeting the ambassadors residency, and of targeting the WFPs headquarters in Darfur.

Trying to broker peace

Various foreign leaders have called for peace, with Blinken speaking separately with Burhan and Dagalo on Tuesday.

Blinken expressed his grave concern about the death and injury of so many Sudanese civilians, and argued a ceasefire was necessary to deliver aid, reunify separated families, and ensure the safety of diplomatic and humanitarian staff, according to a readout from the US State Department.

And Egypt has been in direct communication with both parties encouraging restraint, cessation of hostilities and a return to dialogue, Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry told CNNs Christina Macfarlane in an exclusive interview Tuesday.

The Sudanese Armed Forces later issued conflicting statements on a proposed 24-hour ceasefire, intended to go into effect later on Tuesday.

A statement citing a spokesperson on the official SAF Facebook page said the armed forces are not aware of any coordination with mediators and the international community about a truce and that the RSF announcement for a 24-hour truce aims to cover up the crushing defeat it will receive within hours.

But Burhan told CNN earlier that the SAF will adhere to a ceasefire proposal by the tripartite mechanism, comprising of the United Nations Integrated Transition Assistance Mission in Sudan (UNITAMS), the African Union (AU), and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD).

Dagalo meanwhile said on Twitter that a 24-hour ceasefire to ensure the safe passage of civilians and the evacuation of the wounded was approved by the paramilitary force.

Volker Perthes, the UN Secretary Generals Special Representative for Sudan, said on Monday the organization has been trying to convince the two rival parties to hold the fire for a period of time, and asked them to protect embassies, UN offices, humanitarian and medical facilities.

Both sides had previously agreed to a three-hour ceasefire on Sunday, and again on Monday, with fighting resuming afterward, Perthes said.

But both Burhan and Dagalo have since accused the other of breaking that ceasefire.

When CNN spoke to Burhan on Monday afternoon, the sound of gunshots rang out in the background despite the supposed ceasefire  and Burhan claimed Dagalo had violated it for the second day.

A spokesperson for the RSF rebutted the accusation, claiming that they had been trying to abide by the ceasefire, but they keep firing which leaves no choice but for the RSF to defend itself by firing back.

This story was first published on CNN.com, "Gunmen storm homes of UN staff in Sudan, according to reports, as confusion reigns over ceasefire"
"In over fifteen years on the bench, this judicial officer has never seen the level of fabrication and fraud on the court as is present in this case."
A bathtub ring of light minerals shows the high water line of Lake Mead near water intakes on the Arizona side of Hoover Dam at the Lake Mead National Recreation Area on June 26, 2022, near Boulder City, Nev., in this file photo. The Biden administration on Tuesday, April 11, 2023, released an environmental analysis of competing plans for how Western states and tribes reliant on the dwindling Colorado River should cut their use.
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Boomtown 2023: How to live your best life in Columbia over 50

Columbia makes repeated appearances on lists ranking cities as good places to live. It is perhaps an even better place to mature and retire. A strong health care network, reasonable housing prices, a vibrant, engaged community and an appealing downtown help create an attractive location for all generations, but especially for those over 50. Read more stories.

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By Katelyn Sattler

Staff Writer

Obetz Police Chief Mike Confer commended Sgt. Rob Rigby and Officer Jordan Mitchell for their actions on March 27 involving a suicidal woman with a gun.

Mayor Angela Kirk read the commendation at Obetz City Councils April 10 meeting.

The actions of the officers involved in this highly dangerous and unpredictable situation were exemplary, and they demonstrated the highest levels of professionalism and dedication to public safety, read Kirk.

Officer Mitchell and I located her in a little computer room, said Rigby. I could see a female at a computer desk with music in the background with a gun against her chin. She didnt know we were there, so we had the element of surprise with us. This allowed me to holster my weapon and I was able to come from the top of her back and grab her gun.

Mitchell then holstered his weapon and secured her gun.

Despite the challenging circumstances they faced, Obetz officials said the officers approached the situation with courage and composure, and they were able to de-escalate the situation, disarm the subject, and prevent any harm to the individual or the public.

Their swift and decisive actions not only saved lives, but also prevented a potentially disastrous outcome. said Confer.

After disarming the woman, the officers went into their crisis negotiator training, asking if she was okay and calming her down. They talked to her for about 15 minutes before she agreed to have the medics transport her to a local hospital.

Rigby believes the medics had to pink slip her for a 72-hour hold pending a psych evaluation, to ensure she got the help she needed.

The two officers have worked together for a while, so when Rigby holstered his weapon before going into the computer room, that body language plus a quick nod indicated to his partner that he was ready to confront the situation.

Rigby feels both officers did everything right. It was all about mindset, said Rigby. They quickly formed a plan and executed it flawlessly under intense pressure.

It was one for the books, said Rigby.

Their ability to work together seamlessly and effectively demonstrated the exceptional level of training and expertise of the department, said Confer. It was clear that these officers had not only been trained for this kind of situation but had also internalized the values of service and protection of the community.

It was also the first time Mitchell had wrestled a gun from somebody.

At the end of the day, her life was saved, said Rigby.

Both officers are Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy certified in hostage negotiation and Federal Bureau of Investigation certified in crisis negotiation. A third officer, Eric Baker, is also a member of the hostage/crisis negotiation team with the same certifications, but wasnt at the scene the night Rigby and Mitchell saved the womans life from suicide.

I would like to commend the officers involved for their quick thinking, bravery, and dedication to the safety of the community, said Confer. Their actions reflect the highest standards of the law enforcement profession, and they are a credit to the department and to the community they serve.

Other Obetz news

Kirk will visit Hamilton Township High School to discuss the summer intern program for high schoolers to work for the city. The high schoolers can submit their applications now to work this summer. About 10 to 15 Hamilton Township High School students will be accepted as interns. Some will be returning interns from the previous summer. Depending on the department, interns can make $16, $17, or $20 per hour for the summer.

The city of Columbus is putting in a solar farm on Parsons Avenue, south of Rathmell. Neither Hamilton Township nor the city of Obetz is involved in this project.

Confer said in the past two weeks the police department has responded to 768 calls for service; patrolled 3,508 miles; issued 33 moving violations, 3 of which were for speeding; 2 misdemeanor arrests; 5 offense reports; one crash report; one domestic violence incident.

Obetz Planning and Zoning news

By Katelyn Sattler

Staff Writer

The Obetz Planning and Zoning Commission has tabled a decision on plans for a proposed daycare facility until May.

Kurtis Wolgast, Director of Design for SHYFT Collective and Garrett Baker, Project Manager with American Structurepoint, presented changes to the daycare plan at the April 12 planning and zoning meeting. attended the Obetz P&Z meeting April 12 to

The proposed Fountain of Knowledge Daycare is slated for the southwest corner of the intersection of Bixby and Groveport roads. The property is zoned commercial and needs to be rezoned to support the proposed daycare.

The Obetz city engineer is recommending one curb cut, but the Madison Township Fire Department wants two curb cuts. The city will follow up with the fire chief to discuss options.

We submitted the traffic study in February, then we didnt get comments back until yesterday, said Wolgast. In my experience, the traffic feedback should have been in time to get feedback for any traffic and site impacts that it would have impacted.

Obetz Community Services Director Stacey Boumis said officials just received the traffic study and they appreciate Wolgasts patience.

It would be easier if it wasnt a rezoning, but it is a rezoning and the traffic study is a component of that, said Boumis.

Wolgast said that the turnaround time is uncommonly long.

Boumis said, We need an approved traffic impact study so the engineers can sign off on that. Our engineer has to sign off on the curb cuts. So thats going to mean talking to Madison Township Fire Department.

Swimming pools

Boumis mentioned that the state of Ohio controls residential pools.

The state of Ohio passed a residential building code years ago  back in 2005 or 2006, said Boumis. And according to the code, there are a variety of things within that. And theres also state level code requirements for swimming pools. So, we have our own building department that enforces the Residential Code of Ohio, said Boumis.

If Obetz didnt have a building department, enforcement would default to the county.

The state of Ohio requires that all swimming pools with over 18 inches of water must get a pool permit. Obetzs water depth for a pool is also 18 inches, whereas the city of Columbus defines a pool as an artificial construction with 30 inches of water. Dublin also requires a swimming pool to have 18 inches of water. Pickerington says a swimming pool has at least 24 inches of water. Fairfield County requires a swimming pool to have 24 inches or more of water. Hamilton Township considers a pool to have 24 inches of water.

The same is true for other pool requirements. An in-ground pool owner must have a fence around the pool, but the height varies depending upon the city or county. In Fairfield County, all in-ground pools must have a fence between four feet and six feet in height. Obetz requires a fence of at least 42 inches in height and be of sufficient design as to prohibit children from passing through. Columbus requires all pools to have a fence of at least 48 inches in height. Pickerington requires fencing of at least 48 inches in height. Hamilton Township requires enclosures around pools to be 48 inches in height.

Other requirements for pools that may vary are setback from the property line, location on the property, design criteria, and kinds of lights, among others.
Kabul Now, April 5, 2023

The United Nations has asked all its 3,300 female and male staff in Afghanistan to stay home for two days and stop working after its officials received word of an order by the Taliban that bans female national employees of the UN agencies from work on Tuesday.

UN officials in Afghanistan received word of an order by the de facto authorities that bans female national staff members of the United Nations from working, the Reuters quoted the UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric as saying to reporters in New York.

Dujarric has said that the UN will meet the Talibans foreign ministrys officials on Wednesday to seek further clarity, adding that around 400 women were working for the UN agencies in Afghanistan.

This comes shortly after the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) expressed serious concern in a tweet late on Tuesday that its female staff were prevented from reporting to work in the countrys eastern Nangahar province.

There was a much more official communication made in (Nangarhar provincial capital) Jalalabad. We were told through various conduits that this applied to the whole country, said Dujarric, adding that the UN agencies had not received anything officially in writing.

The Talibans unwritten and oral order also prompted the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to strongly condemn its enforcement in Nangarhar. If this measure is not reversed, it will inevitably undermine our ability to deliver life-saving aid to the people who need it, the UN Chief warned.

According to the UNs report, a record 28.3 million people need humanitarian assistance and protection in 2023 with about 20 million facing severe hunger and 6 million on the verge of famine.

The humanitarian crisis is exacerbated by the Taliban banning female NGO workers in December 2022. The Taliban has yet to comment regarding the new ban its authorities have orally made on the UN female staff.
A Place for All Conservatives to Speak Their Mind.
The better film they teased us with:

In the first couple minutes of Origins, we're treated to a montage of Wolverine and Sabretooth fighting alongside one another through a series of battles plucked straight out of your 10th grade history class. They survive an infantry charge during the American Civil War, a nighttime raid on German trenches during WWI, Omaha Beach during the D-Day invasion, and even their own execution during the Vietnam War.

Fox



No, this doesn't line up with the other X-Men films, but then again, nothing does.

Screw a two-hour movie -- that's an amazing TV series. Wolverine and Sabretooth, surly, stubbled, almost literally grizzly immortal soldiers bantering their way through every war in history -- and also claw-mauling Nazis. Plus, for long-term drama: Comic book readers know these literal brothers in arms eventually become bitter enemies -- imagine experiencing that heartbreak firsthand, after binge-watching several seasons of manly super-bonding. Instead, we got the worst possible version of Deadpool: One literally without a mouth. Whose brilliant idea was that? And how fucking fired are they? We hope it's "a lot."
Good actors pick their films based on such factors as the quality of the writing and the talent of the director. But sometimes, even the most money-hungry thespian will decide a role isn't for them and tell Hollywood they're bailing hard -- only for Hollywood to go, "Haha, not so fast, Jabroni." It turns out that forcing actors to shut their mouths and act in a movie they want nothing to do with can result in massive hits, cult classics ... and yes, the occasional turd. For example ...

7 Mark Hamill Really Wanted To Skip The Force Awakens

For almost 30 years, Mark Hamill lived easy, thinking his days of waving around a magic space glowstick for a living were behind him. But then in 2012, during a Star Wars event, George Lucas took Hamill and Carrie Fisher aside and told them a new trilogy was happening -- and if they didn't sign up, their characters would be written out.

Lucasfilm



"Sorry, lost my hand in a freak Slurpee machine accident! I can't play Luke with only one ... wait, shit."

Immediately, the actor was filled with utter terror. He explained the sensation as feeling like he'd been drafted. And he's not exactly wrong. Whoever became responsible for Luke Skywalker being left out of the movie was basically committing suicide-by-angry-nerd.



Hamill's admitted reaction upon learning he would be a few million dollars richer.

Hamill, ever the kind farm boy, needed someone else to do the dirty work for him -- someone like a brazen smuggler, perhaps. In an interview on the Nerdist podcast, he admitted that he was crossing his fingers and hoping that Harrison Ford would say no first, which seemed like a realistic possibility, given how much he freaking hates Han Solo. Unfortunately, director J.J. Abrams made the movie irresistible for Ford by offering to kill his character. And so Hamill accepted mostly out of politeness, The Force Awakens was a success, and he ended up being in it for like ten seconds. Good luck on the next one, Mark! Hope it doesn't suck!
If your names Chris, and someone else is also Chris, thats not a problem. If your names Chris Smith, and someone else is also Chris Smith, thats not a problem either. But sometimes, we formally say a name belongs to just one entity, which is why if you try getting the username ChrisSmith anywhere, youll see that someones already got it. They beat you to it, fair and square.

Problem is, sometimes, the eventual owner of the name may well not be whoever had it first.

4 Goodyear Tires Isnt Charles Goodyears Charles Goodyear invented vulcanized rubber. Liquid latex comes dripping out of the rubber tree, but Goodyear figured out how to make it into a strong material that wont go all melty on you. His method of heating rubber led to the rubber tires we all know and love, as well as to latex condoms, which he invented. His rubber now rules the world. Youll know that if you ever see his name on an airship run by the firm Goodyear Tires, an airship that would look quite terrifying if not for the cheerful Goodyear floors and logo. Side note: There are no more Goodyear blimps, only airships. The difference is rigidity. Also, all this talk of rigidity and firm and things going melty is probably why Goodyears mind went so quickly to condoms. Levdr1lp/Wiki Commons Unplanned pregnancy? Guess you didnt have a Goodyear. But Goodyear Tires (or the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company, to use its full name) was never Charles Goodyears outfit. They just named themselves after him. Goodyear the company is hugely successful, worth many billions, but Charles Goodyear died poor, having spent his whole life failing at business and struggling to protect his patents. Goodyear Tires wasnt necessarily trying to fool anyone by naming themselves after Charles, whod been dead 40 years when the company began. They were just honoring him with the name (or capitalizing on his post-death legacy, whatever). But now, another century or so later, plenty of people assume its the company that Charles Goodyear left behind. Given enough time, well probably also have people assuming Nikola Tesla ended his life a wealthy man, as he founded Tesla, the trillion-dollar manufacturer of mobile ignition systems. Advertisement

3 There Used to Be Another Continent Called Australia Long before Europeans ventured far south, they had some inkling of a giant landmass down there. The world was shaped something like a ball, and there was a whole lot of land in the half they were on, so there was surely some undiscovered land on the other end (which they called the bottom end, since it was the end they werent on). They called this unknown land that balanced things out Terra Australis. The first maps theorizing about Australis go all the way back to 5th-century Rome. Abraham Ortelius Heres an Australian map from a millennium after that. In the 18th century, James Cook made some detailed voyages around a sixth continent, in the southern hemisphere. However, he realized this wasnt the theorized Australia. It wasnt big enough or south enough. He dubbed the land New Holland, and he sailed further in search of continent number seven. In 1820, explorers (either Russian ones or British ones; both claimed to be first) caught sight of this long-sought Australian continent for the first time. In the next few years, people would get even closer. Advertisement Advertisement But then New Holland said, Hey, were Australia now. They started calling themselves Australia, and Britain wrote that name into law. The true southern continent? No one could call it Australia anymore, so it didnt have a name at all. In time, they went with Antarctica (a name long used in astronomy), which won out over alternative names like Ultima and Antipodea. Australia belongs strictly to a different, populated continent. This theft contributes to the belief that that place was founded by criminals.

2 The Sad Fate of the Original Burger King Burger King isnt the most inspired of names for a burger restaurant. One California company called their restaurants Insta-Burger King, and a Florida company bought it, renamed it to Burger King and expanded it to the chain we know today, but you might not be surprised to learn that some place somewhere adopted that name earlier. The only issue for the eventual megachain Burger King was that one of these predecessors got a trademark on the name. Advertisement Gene and Betty Hoots in Mattoon, Illinois, ran an ice cream shop called Frigid Queen, and they opened a burger place behind it called Burger King in 1957. They got a state trademark on the name well before the national chain came to Illinois. Then when the bigger Burger King did come to the state, the Hoots sued. Ismail Hadine/Unsplash Your honor, the defendant said we could have it our way. Obviously, they didnt succeed in getting sole rights over the name Burger King. In fact, the competing chain had a trademark of its own by this time, a federal trademark, which trumped the state trademark. However, the judge in this suit ruled that the chain Burger King is not allowed to use its name  in Mattoon, Illinois. The Hoots, meanwhile, arent allowed to expand their business outside Mattoon. Without that restriction, we are 100-percent sure the Hoots would have conquered the globe by now. Advertisement Advertisement
Conan OBrien turns 60 years old today, and we couldnt be more thrilled for the legendary talk show host/anyone who holds stock in the red hair dye industry. To celebrate five decades of comedy greatness (he really phoned it in between infancy and age 10), weve collected 60 pieces of trivia for Hollywoods newest sexagenarian, starting with

60 He Wrote a Fan Letter to E.B. White as a Teen While a Junior at Brookline High School, Conan sent a fan letter to Charlottes Web author E.B. White  and received a response, which he keeps framed in his home.

59 His Nose Had to be Completely Rebuilt in High School Conan revealed that he got a major nose job as a teen after he was severely beaten by an Italian gang for wearing a t-shirt with the Irish flag on it. When he arrived at the emergency room, he asked the doctor: Is my nose broken? To which the doctor replied: Broken? Good God, man, its a bag of bones!

58 He Was President of the Harvard Lampoon While studying history and literature at Harvard, Conan served two terms as the president of the Harvard Lampoon, which had a profound influence on  professional wrestlers?

57 He Stole the Original Robin Costume From Batman TVs original Robin, Burt Ward, made a personal appearance at Harvard, along with his original pair of tights that left little to the imagination. Conan and a classmate pretended to be campus security as part of an elaborate scheme to steal the costume. The prank also involved a getaway car and a dude dressed up like The Penguin. Play Advertisement Advertisement

56 And He Once Pranked Bill Cosby Conan also convinced Bill Cosby that he was the recipient of a prestigious lifetime achievement award from Harvard  then picked him up in his parents station wagon and handed him a bowling trophy. In retrospect, Cosby deserved a far harsher prank.

55 He Got Great Career Advice From John Candy In his capacity as Lampoon president, Conan got to meet John Candy, who told him: You dont try comedy  you do it, or you dont do it. Play Advertisement Advertisement

54 He Dated Lisa Kudrow Conan briefly dated a pre-Friends Lisa Kudrow after meeting her at an improv class, but soon realized that they were better as friends.

53 He Was in an 80s Training Video For Music Salesmen This isnt a solid spruce top! Play Advertisement Advertisement

52 Marge vs. the Monorail Was Inspired by a Billboard Conans classic Simpsons episode would never have existed had the young writer not randomly encountered a billboard that simply read: Monorail.

51 He Was Once Roommates With Jeff Garlin Conan once shared a Chicago apartment with Jeff Garlin  and 18 years later, they revisited their old home with a camera crew. Play Advertisement Advertisement

50 His First SNL Sketch Starred John Lithgow The first sketch Conan pitched that actually made it to the air on Saturday Night Live starred John Lithgow as an osteology professor whos terrified of skeletons. Play

49 He Played the Doorman of the Five-Timers Club Conan played assorted minor roles throughout his time on SNL, including Sean, the doorman of the Five-Timers Club. Play Advertisement Advertisement

48 He Revisited the Five-Timers Club in 2022 Conan showed up as himself when John Mulaney was welcomed into the Five-Timers Club in 2022 (despite the fact that this joke clearly needs to die), referencing that he originally played the doorman which, to be honest, sabotaged the foundational reality of the sketch.

47 He Also Played a Random Horse Wrangler You may also remember him as the even less memorable SNL character horse wrangler who got bitten on the hand that one time. Play Advertisement Advertisement

46 He Jokingly Threatened Mike Myers When Mike Myers joined SNL, Conan sent him a note that began: Im going to destroy you. Play

45 He Co-Wrote the Unproduced Hans and Franz Movie Conan wrote a screenplay for a musical movie adaptation of the Hans and Franz sketch, along with Robert Smigel, Dana Carvey, and Kevin Nealon. As Nealon later revealed, the project was ultimately killed by Arnold Schwarzenegger, who was set to co-star as himself. Play Advertisement Advertisement

44 Conan OBriens Late Night Audition Was Filmed on the Tonight Show Set After being recommended to take over Late Night following David Lettermans departure, Conan filmed a mock show on the Tonight Show set with guests Mimi Rogers and Jason Alexander. Play

43 He Co-Wrote One of the Funniest Failed TV Pilots of All-Time Conan and Robert Smigel created the Adam West vehicle Lookwell, which sadly never made it past the pilot stage. Play Advertisement Advertisement

42 Conan and Andy Richter Hit it Off Immediately As they were putting together writers for Late Night, Robert Smigel introduced his friend Andy Richter to Conan, and the two got along instantly. Play

41 He Wrote a Self-Flagellating Parody Review of His Late Night Premiere The day Late Night with Conan OBrien premiered, Conan penned the hilarious article Conan Flops! for The New York Times, a fake review criticizing the show for the hosts use of childish knock-knock jokes, its sidekick (an elderly Irish priest) and the guests, which included the deputy director of New York's wastewater collection bureau and a man who could eat oranges without getting any juice on his shirt (which he failed to do on camera). Advertisement Advertisement

40 John Goodman Was His First Late Night Guest The first guest on Conans very first Late Night episode was the great John Goodman, who was presented with a 1st Guest medal by a lookalike of the Mayor 

39 And He Leg-Wrestled George Wendt This was soon followed by a leg-wrestling competition between Goodman and Cheers star George Wendt. Play Advertisement Advertisement

38 Paul McCartney Wrote a Song About Him (Sort of) When Conan traveled to London to interview Paul McCartney, the ex-Beatle wrote an impromptu ditty about the host, which ominously ended with hes never coming back. Not exactly Let it Be, Paul. Play

37 Conan Credits David Letterman with Saving His Show Conan didnt exactly get the warmest reception when he first started hosting Late Night, and according to Conan, he was in way over his head; NBC made it clear that he wouldnt be around very long. But then the miraculous happened: Conans predecessor, David Letterman, asked to be a guest on the show  which had a profound impact. Conan later said that because of that show: everything turned around for me. Play Advertisement Advertisement

36 He Met His Wife Liza While Taping Late Night Conan married his wife, Liza Powel OBrien, in 2002; they first met after he noticed her while taping a segment of his show in 2000. Somewhere, in the vault at NBC, there's footage of me literally falling for my wife on camera," he later said.

35 He Won a Cameo in How I Met Your Mother Conan won a walk-on role in How I Met Your Mother at a charity auction but thought it would be funnier if he was just a background extra whose presence is never acknowledged. Play Advertisement Advertisement

34 He Once Went Apple Picking with Mr. T You put the fear of god into this apple. Play

33 He Was Prevented From Appearing on Who Wants to be a Millionaire NBC forbade Conan and The West Wing star Martin Sheen from appearing in ABCs hit game show Who Wants to be a Millionaire Advertisement Advertisement

32 But He Played a Joke Version of the Show on Late Night Conan was still able to drop by the set to film a sketch with Regis Philbin. Play

31 He Turned Old Episodes of Walker, Texas Ranger Into Comic Gold The Walker, Texas Ranger Lever was created after NBC merged with Universal, and Conan suddenly had the rights to a seemingly bottomless well of ridiculous Chuck Norris clips. They had to shut the bit down once actors began asking for residuals, and it became too pricey. Play Advertisement Advertisement

30 He Predicted The Future of Indiana Jones When Harrison Ford first appeared on Late Night in 2000, Conan prophetically speculated that they could keep making Indiana Jones movies well into Fords old age: When youre 80, you could do one where they just bring the treasures to you. Play

29 Jim Carrey Played Conan in a Fake Biopic I cant hear the laughter anymore Play Advertisement Advertisement

28 NBC Tried to Ban Norm MacDonald From Late Night  But Conan Stood Up For Him After Norm Macdonald was fired from Saturday Night Live for relentlessly making O.J. jokes, NBC executive (and O.J.s buddy) Don Ohlmeyer wanted Late Night to ban him from the show. Despite Ohlmeyer having suggested Conan for the job and Conan's sense of loyalty towards him, the show continued to book Norm, with Conan telling Ohlymeyer: You've hired me to do the best show I can do, and this is my best guest. Play

27 Things Got Real Weird/Amazing During the 2007 Writers Strike Late Night was off the air for nearly two months during the writers strike, which began in November 2007 and stretched into 2008. When Conan returned, he had a beard but no writers  which meant relying on frequently anarchic new bits such as German Disco Lightshow... Play  and Ziplining to Save President Lincoln. Play Advertisement Advertisement

26 He Continued to Pay His Staff While The Show Was Off Due to the Strike To his credit, Conan reportedly paid staff out of his own pockets during the shutdown.

25 He Originally Followed Just One Person on Twitter When he joined Twitter, Conan followed just one person; a 19-year-old Michigan student chosen completely at random. Advertisement Advertisement

24 His Meeting with Bob Dylan was Ruined by Al Gore Conan got to go backstage at a Bob Dylan concert, but as he finally got to meet the legend, the moment was immediately ruined by former Vice President Al Gore. Play

23 Hes Not a Bad Guitar Player Conan has jammed with legends like Bruce Springsteen and David Bowie. Play Advertisement Advertisement

22 He Was in a White Stripes Music Video Much of The White Stripes video for The Denial Twist took place on a mock-up of the Late Night set. Play

21 He Hosted SNL in 2001 Conan hosted SNL in 2001 but joked on his show that they were using the second string cast for the episode, made up of a bunch of nobodies, plus Tracy Morgan. Play Advertisement Advertisement

20 His First Show After 9/11 Opened with a Somber, Thoughtful Monologue I make a living acting like an ass, generally  no ones looking to me to put this in perspective. Play

19 Conans First Tonight Show Began With Him Jogging Across the Country When Conan inherited The Tonight Show from human barnacle Jay Leno, the opening to the first episode found him jogging across the country, through Wrigley Field, past the Gateway Arch, stopping only briefly at a Victorian Doll Museum. Play Advertisement Advertisement

18 His First (and Last) Tonight Show Guest Was Will Ferrell Conan opened his Tonight Show run with Will Ferrell, who also appeared on Conans final Late Night show. Ferrell did a bit pretending that he thought it was probably his last show because studio executives could pull the plug at any second. Ferrell eventually came back for Conans last Tonight Show as well. Play

17 Conans Final Tonight Show Scored His Best Ratings Conan scored huge ratings in his final Tonight Show episode, telling audiences: Walking away from The Tonight Show is the hardest thing I have ever had to do. Play Advertisement Advertisement

16 Tom Hanks Popularized the Nickname Coco You ruined my life, Conan told Hanks. Play

15 His Live Tour Was the Subject of a Documentary After the Tonight Show mess, Conan launched the Legally Prohibited from Being Funny on Television Tour, which was also the subject of the documentary Conan OBrien Cant Stop. Advertisement Advertisement

14 He Didnt Take Any Money From the Tour and Used it All to Pay His Staff According to reports, Conan used the tour money to pay his staff  or, as TMZ so eloquently put it, No Bread for the Redhead.

13 He Was on an Episode of Inside the Actors Studio Despite not being known for his thespianism, Conan was the guest for a 2009 episode of Inside the Actors Studio. Play Advertisement Advertisement

12 Before That, Host James Lipton Was on Conans Show James Lipton had previously appeared on Late Night, where he shotgunned a beer to celebrate spring break. Play

11 He Moved to TBS For the Youthful Audience Instead of a rival network, Conan took his show to cable channel TBS, reportedly because he was all about youthful demographics, not old people eyeballs. Advertisement Advertisement

10 He Had a Custom Superhero Suit Made For Comic-Con Conan commissioned Ironhead Studio to make him his very own superhero costume for a series of shows at San Diego Comic-Con. Play

9 He Tapped Ralph Macchio to Make Jordan Schlansky Look Like an Idiot You can practically hear Conan associate producer Jordan Schlanskys soul collapsing in on itself as his Karate Kid fandom is called into question by Daniel LaRusso himself. Play Advertisement Advertisement

8 He Performed the Monorail Song at the Hollywood Bowl There's nothin' on Earth like a genuine, bonafide, electrified six-car monorail! Play

7 Will Ferrell Zoomed In For His Final TBS Show Will Ferrell returned, via Zoom, for yet another Conan OBrien finale. Play Advertisement Advertisement

6 He Played The Riddler in The Lego Batman Movie Conan provided the voice of The Riddler in The Lego Batman Movie (perhaps as penance for stealing Robins costume as a youth).

5 Conans Sister Was in The Fighter Kate OBrien played the role of Phyllis 'Beaver' Eklund in the 2010 drama The Fighter. Advertisement Advertisement

4 Conan Appeared as Himself in an Episode of Will Arnetts Murderville Shes dead. Shes SO dead. Play

3 He Impersonated Andy Warhol in Weird Conan played legendary artist Andy Warhol in Weird: The Al Yankovic Story  then forgot all about it until the movie came out. Play Advertisement Advertisement

2 His Assistant Sona Movsesian Wrote a Book in 2022 Conans long-suffering assistant, and current podcast co-host, Sona Movsesian, recently wrote The Worlds Worst Assistant, an irreverent how-to guide for becoming a terrible, yet unfireable employee.
I wasnt sure I wanted to be a mom, but Ive always wanted to be a prop comic, Friedman joked of the would-be stunt on the most recent episode of the podcast The Last Laugh. Friedman recalled how Cordens representatives approached her to do a set promoting her book during the last few months of his tenure when the new mother suggested doing the set with her baby in hand. Friedman recounted her time as a writer on Late Night with David Letterman when she couldnt so much as slip a period reference past the censors, and she had hoped that times had changed enough that a comic making jokes about motherhood with a baby in tow would fly.

With that unfortunately misguided optimism, Friedman worked on her set with Cordens reps, explaining, For a little over a month we were working on it back and forth. The booker would say, Cut this cop joke, we dont want to make any cops in the audience upset. Thats how you typically work out a late-night set. Friedman noted that, while her viral appearances on Conan were more-or-less uncensored, Cordens show was much more traditionally strict.

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Friedman kept working on the baby-assisted set about motherhood that would both satiate the studio sticklers and kill in front of a late-night audience, but, right before she was supposed to film, she received the feedback from Cordens booker that shot down the idea entirely. It really bummed me out because it was a funny set, it was working, and to think that a new mom making jokes that work, with her baby attached to her, would bum people out too much kind of made me angry, Friedman lamented.
This years RSA Conference showcases promising startups from all over the world, many of which are making their first public appearance. Most will be exhibiting in the Early Stage Expo, which features 50 new security solution providers. Other startup exhibitors are finalists in RSAs Innovation Sandbox competition.

Perhaps the most interesting aspect about startups is that they target needs not addressed by established vendors. Those needs are often the result of changing trends in threat actors objectives and how they target and exploit victims.

Three areas in which the threat landscape is changing are identity and access management (IAM), application security, and third-party risk. Cybercriminals are getting better at bypassing and compromising user authentication and access controls. The number of cloud-connected and on-premises devices that require access controls is growing, too.

Threat actors are targeting vulnerabilities in open-source code and APIs to gain access. Finding those vulnerabilities is often a challenge as security teams struggle to gain visibility of the software running across hybrid networks. The trend toward applications that rely on machine learning and artificial intelligence creates new challenges to protecting the data and models they use.

Third-party products and services continue to present access to networks in otherwise well-protected organizations. The process of assessing third-party risk is time-consuming and often not accurate.

The companies below making their debut at RSA attempt to address these three challenges.

Identity and access management/access controls

Crosswire

Crosswire claims to be the next generation of identity-first access management. Its identity and access management (IAM) platform is designed to minimize the risk of account takeover and lateral movement across SaaS apps. It uses AI to assess risk and make recommendations to better protect accounts. It can also trigger additional authentication at SAML sign-on. Crosswire claims its IAM solution's automated provisioning gives users fast access at a lower cost. Founded in 2021, Crosswire will be at RSA booth ESE-21

IDmelon

Canadian company IDmelon claims to make the transition to passwordless authentication easier. Its IDmelon Passwordless Orchestration Platform (IPOP) allows organizations to use their existing devices as FIDO2 security keys in place of usernames and passwords. It also has features to manage the credential lifecycle and automate security key onboarding. The company claims it has simplified the single sign-on (SSO) process with a single tap on a device. IDmelon was founded in 2020 and will be at RSA booth ESE-50.

Inside-Out Defense

Inside-Out Defense claims to be the first platform to provide real-time detection and remediation of privilege access abuse across an organization's perimeter. The company also promises its solution can assess user intent and provide forensic privilege access intelligence. The platform provides connectors to many of the significant infrastructure services and applications. Founded in 2022, Inside-Out Defense will be at RSA booth ESE-11.

Procyon

Procyon offers a multi-cloud privilege access management (PAM) solution that the company claims simplifies access management. It works across all the major cloud platforms to provide passwordless access using Trusted Platform Module (TPM) technology. A self-service portal gives DevOps users access with only the privileges they need based on configurable approval policies, according to Procyon. Founded in 2020, Procyon will be at RSA booth ESE-15.

SessionGuardian

SessionGuardian offers solutions that use Continuous Identity Verification technology to protect data assets from theft. According to the company, its technology permits only authorized users in approved locations and on healthy devices to view data an organization deems sensitive. SessionGuardian claims it will prevent unauthorized viewers from seeing sensitive data with features like continuous identity verification and screen blurring when a second party is present. Founded in 2017, SessionGuardian will be at RSA booth ESE-12.

Sonet.io

Sonet.io is a zero-trust cloud service that provides agentless access control for remote users to SaaS and web applications and servers. Access is controlled through configurable policies, and allows for analysis of behavioral indicators of risk to enable real-time policy updates. Sonet.io claims a setup time of 15 minutes. Founded in 2020, Sonet.io will be at RSA booth ESE-44.

Veza Technologies, Inc.

The Veza Technologies authorization platform is centered on data. The company claims it enables organizations to visualize, remediate, and control who has access to and what actions they can take on data. The agentless platform integrates with enterprise resources and translates their authorization structures into a common language of permissions. Founded in 2020, Veza will be at RSA booth ESE-23.

Application security / DevSecOps

ArmorCode

The ArmorCode AppSecOps platform is an ASPM solution that integrates with an organizations existing security stack to provide a unified view of application risks and coverage. It works to manage vulnerabilities across the DevSecOps pipeline, cloud, and on-premises. Orchestration features help to ensure that issues are sent to the correct teams within their workflows. Founded in 2020, ArmorCode will be at RSA booth ESE-10.

Bright Security

Bright Securitys Dynamic Application Security Testing (DAST) platform is designed to help find and fix vulnerabilities throughout the SDLC process. The company claims the platform can scan all common APIs and web apps for vulnerabilities. It then runs two tests on each vulnerability to confirm accuracy and minimize false positives. Bright then provides remediation instructions. Founded in 2019, Bright will be at RSA booth ESE-28.

Dazz

Dazz provides security tools for automated root cause analysis and developer-led remediation. They connect to an organizations existing security tools to map the CI/CD pipelines, identify root causes that generate alerts, and auto-generate code-based fixes. An RSA Innovation Sandbox finalist, Dazz was founded in 2021 and will be at booth 1661.

Endor Labs

Endor Labs Dependency Lifecycle Management platform is designed to help developers identify and analyze open-source software used within their organizations. The company claims the platform will provide insight into dependencies within their software supply chain, allowing them to block malicious or poor-quality code or software with orphaned dependencies. Founded in 2021, Endor Labs will be at RSA booth ESE-16.



Enso Security

Enso Security offers its Application Security Posture Management (ASPM) solution that the company claims provides a complete and unified inventory of an organizations application environment. It is designed to help security teams enforce and manage application security programs by prioritizing assets, identifying coverage gaps, and automating and orchestrating workflows. Founded in 2020, Enso will be at RSA booth ESE-37.

Kondukto

The Kondukto AppSec orchestration and correlation platform gathers vulnerability data from sources such as security testing tools, penetration tests, and manual reviews to provide a single application vulnerability management view. The company claims the platform allows AppSec teams to prioritize and fix vulnerabilities faster. Kondukto integrates with many popular security tools. Founded in 2019, Kondukto will be at RSA booth ESE-46.

Operant

Operant offers a runtime application protection platform for cloud-native environments. It allows DevSecOps teams to set up security enforcement policies for interactions across multiple cloud instances. The company claims its platform can automatically discover and analyze all API endpoints, service interactions, and security gaps. Founded in 2020, Operant will be at RSA booth ESE-17.

Oxeye

Oxeyes application security platform combines SAST, DAST, SCA, ASOC, and ASPM functions to provide a single unified view of cloud-native applications for both AppSec and development teams. It automatically prioritizes vulnerabilities and provides remediation information for developers. Oxeye filters out vulnerable open-source and third-party software that is not loaded and used, as well as vulnerabilities that cannot be accessed from the internet. Founded in 2020, Oxeye will be at RSA booth ESE-13.

Scribe Security

The Scribe platform provides continuous code assurance using a zero-trust approach. The company claims its goal is to build trust for both software producers and consumers. Its platform can automatically generate software bills of materials (SBOMs) that can be shared within the organization and with partners. It also enables compliance with supply chain standards and practices as well as defining and monitoring software development lifecycle (SDLC) processes and policies. Founded in 2021, Scribe will be at RSA booth ESE-47.

Tromzo

Tromzo offers a software supply chain risk remediation platform. It takes a prioritized, context-based approach to risk remediation, and claims to be able to discover all software assets and identify their owners. Tromzo automates vulnerability management and provides KPIs for risk remediation accountability. Founded in 2021, Tromzo will be at RSA booth ESE-41.

Third-party risk

CyberVadis

The CyberVadis third-party cybersecurity risk assessment service provides analyst-validated audits and maps to major international compliance standards like NIST, ISO 27001, and GDPR. The company claims it can cover the entire supply chain including providers of legal, HR and recruiting, marketing, manufacturing, and logistics services. Founded in 2016, CyberVadis will be at RSA booth ESE-6.

VISO Trust

VISO Trust claims to offer the first AI-based third-party cyber risk due diligence platform. It provides risk intelligence to security teams, augmented by third-party risk experts. VISO can carry out its assessments in compliance with many regulations such as NIST, PCI DSS, GDPR, and CCPA. It uses AI to analyze vendor documents to help determine their security posture. Founded in 2020, VISO Trust will be at RSA booth ESE-7.
Vivek Ramaswamy, the anti-woke candidate for president who's the new darling of the right, will appear with the Greenwich GOP in mid-June, a fitting visit for a local party with its roots in business and its heart in the culture wars.

The Greenwich Republican Town Committee sent out a save-the-date notice for a "Lincoln-Reagan Party to Remember" to be held on June 17, but issued no other details. Local party leaders declined to comment other than to confirm that they will host Ramaswamy on that Saturday.

Ramaswamy, 37, has burst on the political scene in 2023 as an election neophyte with blue-chip business and academic credentials and a quirky approach designed to appeal to both populist culture warriors and conservative intellectuals. He declared as a candidate for president in a Feb. 21 appearance on Tucker Carlson's Fox News show.

Ramaswamy's message, in two books including the 2021 bestseller, "Woke, Inc.: Inside Corporate America's Social Justice Scam," is that the politically correct behavior rules pushed by the socially progressive left -- diversity targets, fossil fuel opposition and Covid measures among them -- have gone too far and are undermining American freedoms. "Were in the middle of a national identity crisis," he says in the opening of his 3-minute campaign video on YouTube.

"Faith, patriotism and hard work have disappeared, only to be replaced by new secular religions like Covidism, climatism and gender ideology," Ramaswamy says on the video. "We cannot even answer the question of what it is to be an American."

Is that too far to the right for a Republican Party trying to make inroads in a blue state where no GOP candidate has won a statewide or Congressional race since 2006? It depends on how Ramaswamy stands on policy questions.

He told the NRA last week that he'd like to expand gun rights and shut down the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Fox News reported. And he told the New York Times on the day of his campaign announcement that he would, the newspaper reported, "repeal Executive Order 11246, which has banned discrimination and required affirmative action for federal contractors since 1965."

Those positions and others of his seem extreme, though they're fitting for the Greenwich Republican Party. Driven by the Greenwich Patriots group, the committee, if not the voters, has lurched during the Trump era to the right and toward the culture wars, away from its traditional pro-business, pro-public-investment, global engagement positions of the Bush past.

On the other hand, wokeness has gone overboard in some areas, though hardly as a threat to the nation. And Ramaswamy certainly takes a thoughtful approach, strategically co-opting phrases from Martin Luther King. "This isnt just a political campaign, this is a cultural movement to create a new American dream for the next generationnot on the color of your skin but on the content of your character and your contributions," he said in his video.

"I have a dream that we can be one people again," he concludes, using the most famous four words in civil rights ("We shall overcome" is only three words) to deliver a message softer than what we've heard from most candidates riding the cultural backlash wave.

Oddly, Ramaswamy isn't talking about traditional economic and business concerns except as they relate to the culture wars over corporate governance.

An Ohio native, the son of immigrants from India, his bio says he finished at the top of his class at Harvard. He graduated from Yale Law School and made a fortune as founder of a pharmaceutical company, Roivant Sciences -- landing him on the cover of Forbes in 2015. He later founded Strive, an asset management firm that attacks progressive environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles and has attracted capital from, among others, Peter Thiel, the billionaire tech invester and libertarian activist.

Back to the question: Will Ramaswamy's appearance help or hurt Republicans in Connecticut, beyond the money he helps the local party raise?

"Although his credentials and pledges may appeal to the GOP base, they have proven to be unappealing to Connecticut voters, especially in Fairfield County," former Greenwich Republican Town Chairman Dan Quigley said in an emailed comment. "Any affiliation with candidates that are wedded to far right ideals will make Republicans task of changing Connecticut's political hue to purple from blue all the more difficult.

Ben Proto, the GOP state chairman, tread carefully. "He's very smart, very innovative, looks at problems differently," Proto said in a text comment to me, adding that average Americans are less interested in the cultural debates than are "extremes on both sides."

Like countless other credible business executives who have looked in the mirror and seen a U.S. president -- Andrew Yang comes to mind most recently -- Ramaswamy is not going to wake up in the White House on Jan. 21, 2025. His role is to bring new ideas.

This early in the election cycle, it's good and right for a local Republican town committee to hitch up with a fresh face for some check-writing and wine. Vivek Ramaswamy is not Chris Christie or Larry Hogan, moderates who would help Republicans in Connecticut. But he's also not Matt Gaetz or Marjorie Taylor Greene.
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FAIRFIELD  At midnight, back in 1943 or 1944, the Gestapo appeared at the home of a wealthy man in Slovakia where Emil Fish and his family were hiding and took them to a collection site where they were divided, put on cattle carts and sent to concentration camps.

His father was sent to Buchenwald Concentration Camp, while he, his sister and mother were sent to Bergen Belsen Concentration Camp.

"The hardest part that I remember in my life is when they took my father away," Fish shared with the audience at Fairfield University's Holocaust Remembrance Day ceremony Tuesday. About 6 million Jews were killed in the Holocaust.

He said if they had been taken three days earlier, they would have been sent to Auschwitz, but because the Russians were in Europe they were sent to these other camps since the trains couldn't get through.

Though just 9 when he was sent to the camp, he said he felt he was no longer a child.

"You grew up very fast," said Fish, who now lives in Philadelphia. "I don't think we were children anymore."

He recalled the starvation and the tens thousands of people in the camp; how people died where they stood.

"People are dying left and right," Fish said.

Even when the British arrived in 1945 and the sharply dressed officer told them they were free, the deaths continued. People, not accustomed to food for so long, died after eating the food and water the British provided. Medical officials soon got involved though to better administer the appropriate amounts so people could recover.

Fish, his sister and parents survived the Holocaust, but many of his relatives didn't. His father was the only survivor on his side.

And while Fish said Holocaust survivors think about the Holocaust every day, it wasn't until 60 or so years after he was sent to the camp that he vowed to dedicate himself to educating others about the Holocaust. He had returned to his hometown of Bardejov in Slovakia with his wife and family and discovered there were no more Jews living there, his old school no longer existed and the synagogues had been replaced with home improvement stores.

"I was very angry at the world," he said. "I looked at my school where I went as a child and said, 'Hitler killed the Jews, but he won't kill my heritage.'"

Fish described growing up in Bardejov as an idyllic place where Jews and Christians lived side by side, everyone had their freedom, businesses flourished and the schools had any kind of club you could imagine.

"Before the war, it was paradise," he said. "We really lived in a dream world until Hitler came around."

He said there was still a sentiment of antisemetism though, which became even more public throughout Europe as Hitler came to power in the 1930s.

"The moment Hitler came to power, the antisemites realized they could do what they wanted to do  kill the Jews," Fish said.

Members of the audience questioned if the rise in antisemitism today is similar to what it was back then and if Fish anticipated another Holocaust could happen.

Fish said until a couple of months ago, he had taken the mantra "never again" to heart as fact, but after learning about the genocide that happened in Rwanda, it was now more a matter of when, not if, a Holocaust could happen again. He said there isn't a global power that can intercede, though it might look different today given the role of Israel on the international stage and how it would get involved.

"Antisemitism is a story of 2,000 years," he said. "It's not something that happened yesterday and we can eliminate it."

He likened it to a long illness and said this is why education is important.

"You have to teach people not to hate," Fish said. "You want me to go the rest of my life hating people? I decided I'm not going to do that."

Fish said the Holocaust began gradually in Slovakia, starting with laws in the 1930s that required Jews to have Gentile partners, prohibited them from practicing Judaism and ordered Jews to wear armbands. In 1942, 80 percent of the 3,000 or so Jews that lived in Bardejov were sent to camps.

Fish's father was a business owner who dealt with railroad ties, earning them an exception and making them among the 600 Jews who remained in 1942.

"You can't just kill 80 percent of the population and assume everything is going to be fine," he said. "So we existed but we didn't survive."

The family eventually had to go into hiding and got fake papers saying they were Christian and a few times stared down German officers occupying the country.

One time was when the family stopped at a restaurant and the only open table was at the front near where a German officer sat. His father, who had studied in Germany, and spoke perfect German greeted the soldier with "Heil Hitler." He then proceeded to tell the soldier that he didn't like how the Germans were in the country and to leave and let them do what needed to be done and get the Jews out of the country.

Fish said luck and money were key factors to their survival, but they also had to be creative and smart.

"Money, luck and brains  that did it," he said. "But luck more than anything else."

His blonde mother, was crossing the railroad tracks one time after buying bread when she was stopped and told she and her family were to be arrested because they were Jewish. She insisted she wasn't and was able to make it to where the family was staying. The four of them packed in a hurry and fled, spending two to three days in the rainy countryside before seeking refuge in the home of a Baptist priest.

He said they were ultimately caught when news spread that Christians sheltering Jews would be killed and the person they were staying with got scared and reported them.

"Every Holocaust survivor has their own story," Fish said. No two stories are alike. I don't want you to think my story is special. It is a story."
DENVER (AP)  The daughter of a woman accused of killing her stepson in Colorado, putting his body in a suitcase and dumping it off a bridge in Florida said Monday that she never suspected his body was in the van they drove in together across the country.

Testifying at Letecia Stauch's murder trial in Colorado Springs, Harley Hunt said it never crossed her mind that her mother was transporting the body of 11-year-old Gannon Stauch in a suitcase in their rented van after killing him, as prosecutors allege.

Im still in shock. I defended her for years. I just feel manipulated and lied to, Hunt said.

When pressed by the defense, Hunt said she never looked in the back of the van where their luggage was as they traveled through Texas and Louisiana on their way to Florida and then South Carolina in February 2020. She said she never smelled anything unusual. But Hunt also said her mother insisted on keeping the air conditioning on even when she complained of being too cold.

Prosecutors say Letecia Stauch stabbed Gannon 18 times and shot him before reporting him missing in January 2020 while her then-husband and Gannon's father, Albert Stauch, was away at a National Guard training. While the search for the boy continued, Letecia Stauch and her daughter, who was 17 at the time, left in a rented van with a vague plan to start a new life somewhere else.

Gannons remains were found by bridge inspectors in March 2020, in a suitcase under a bridge on the Florida Panhandle. Prosecutors suggested that Stauch snuck out from a hotel room where she was staying with her daughter in Pensacola to dispose of his body in the middle of the night. In answer to a question from the jury, Hunt said she did not remember if their van was parked in a different spot when they went to leave the hotel the following morning.

Stauch is charged with first-degree murder, tampering with a deceased human body and tampering with physical evidence. She has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity.

The defense claimed she suffered a major psychotic crack as a result of childhood trauma when she killed Gannon. But prosecutors have been stressing during the trial that she did know right from wrong, a key element they must prove to defeat the insanity defense. They have been steadily asking witnesses like Hunt whether they thought Stauch was able to make decisions and plans.

Hunt testified that her mother booked their hotel rooms for one person, asking her daughter to sneak in on her own with their dogs so she did not have to pay for them, and that she requested a Ford Motor Company corporate discount because a relative worked for the company.

In answer to defense questions, Hunt acknowledged that she had sometimes found her mother crying in the closet while she was growing up.

Also, when Letecia Stauch was unhappily living with her then-husband and blended family in Alaska, where Albert Stauch was stationed, Hunt said her mother implied she was going to kill herself. Hunt said her mother told her to come have your last dinner with me and that she had already taken something to make that happen. But Hunt testified that nothing happened to her mother and they never spoke about it again.
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KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP)  As Ralph Yarl struggled to come to grips with being shot after going to the wrong house to pick up his younger brothers, the white Kansas City, Missouri, homeowner who shot the Black teenager turned himself in and was released on bond Tuesday.

Andrew Lester, 84, surrendered at the Clay County Detention Center a day after being charged with first-degree assault and armed criminal action. He posted bond Tuesday afternoon. Some civil rights leaders urged a hate crime charge, but Clay County Prosecuting Attorney Zachary Thompson said first-degree assault is a higher-level crime with a longer sentence  up to life in prison.

Lee Merritt, an attorney for the Yarl family, said the case should qualify as a hate crime.

Ralph Yarl was shot because he was armed with nothing but other than his Black skin, he said.

As Yarl recovered from his wounds, supporters, civil rights leaders and politicians rallied in downtown Kansas City to call for justice for the 16-year-old and a stronger effort to improve racial relations in Missouri and the U.S.

Speakers urged the crowd to support Yarl, to fight for justice and to remove politicians who pass discriminatory laws and support gun rights.

Many carried signs saying, He is only 16, and Is this what Kansas City has come to? Stop gun violence.

Merritt said the family is also angry that police held Lester for only two hours after the shooting, when they legally could have held him for 24.

If they would have held him for 24 hours, they would have held him long enough to get the statement from the kid with a bullet in his brain," Merritt said. They got the statement the very next day.

During an interview Tuesday with CBS Mornings, Yarl's mother, Cleo Nagbe, said her son is in good spirits but that the trauma remains evident. She said he is able to communicate mostly when he feels like it, but mostly he just sits there and stares, and the buckets of tears just rolls down his eyes.

You can see that he is just replaying the situation over and over again, and that just doesnt stop my tears either, she said.

The shooting happened about 10 p.m. Thursday. Police Chief Stacey Graves said that Yarls parents asked him to pick up his twin brothers at a home on 115th Terrace.

Yarl, an honors student and all-state band member, mistakenly went to 115th Street  a block away from where he meant to be. When he rang the bell, Lester came to the door and shot Yarl in the forehead  then shot him again, in the right forearm.

Lester faces arraignment Wednesday afternoon. He does not yet have a listed attorney.

Lester told police he lives alone and was scared to death when he saw a Black male on the porch and thought someone was trying to break in, according to the probable cause statement.

No words were exchanged before the shooting, but afterward, as Yarl got up to run, he heard Lester yell, Dont come around here, the statement said.

Yarl ran to multiple homes asking for help before finding someone who would call the police, the statement said.

James Lynch was the neighbor who found Yarl. He didnt respond to an interview request, but his wife confirmed an NBC News report that said Lynch heard shouting and saw Yarl banging on the door of another home.

I heard somebody screaming, Help, help, Ive been shot! Lynch, who is white, told NBC. The father of three ran out and found Yarl covered in blood. Lynch checked his pulse and, when another neighbor came out with towels, helped stem the bleeding until paramedics arrived.

The shooting outraged many in Kansas City and across the country. President Joe Biden was among those demanding justice. He spoke with Yarl on Monday and invited him to the White House.

No parent should have to worry that their kid will be shot after ringing the wrong doorbell, Biden tweeted. Weve got to keep up the fight against gun violence.

Thompson said Monday that there was a racial component to the shooting. He did not elaborate. Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Alexander Higginbotham said in an email to The Associated Press on Tuesday that there is not a racial element to the legal charges that were filed.

Merritt said the Yarl family met privately with Thompson and asked why he said the case had a racial aspect, without elaboration. The prosecutor said he was echoing the words from law enforcement that obviously theres a racial dynamic at play in this case, said Merritt, who called the answer shallow.

About 150 supporters attended Tuesday's rally at police headquarters, chanting Justice for Ralph and demanding that the U.S. Department of Justice investigate. Lester, the activists said, received preferential treatment because he is white.

Bishop Frank Douglas of the Church of God in Christ, said the U.S. is experiencing its own version of apartheid and that if the shooter had been Black, it would have been lynching time.

We are putting a spotlight to whats been going on for over 100 years," Douglas said. "We got emancipation but we didnt get love.

Karen Allman, 61, said she had lived in Lesters neighborhood for 32 years, although she didnt know him or hear the shooting. She said she attended Wednesdays rally to support Yarl and his family because if we dont speak out, its going to keep happening.

I dont know what they go through on a day-to-day basis being Black, said Allman, who is white. But I do know if we dont stand with them, they dont have a chance of having any of this fixed.

The assault charge against Lester carries a penalty of up to life in prison. Lester also was charged with armed criminal action, which has a penalty range of 3-15 years in prison.

Charging Lester with a hate crime would have potentially meant a shorter sentence if he's convicted, experts said.

Washington University School of Law professor Peter Joy said the state hate crime law is used only to enhance low-level felony or misdemeanor charges.

What the prosecutor did was charge (Lester) with the highest degree of felony they could charge him with, Joy said.

Legal experts believe Lester's lawyers will claim self-defense under Missouris Stand Your Ground law, which allows for using deadly force if a person is in fear for their life. Missouri is among roughly 30 states with such statutes.

Robert Spitzer, a professor emeritus of political science at the State University of New York, Cortland, whose research focuses on gun policy and politics, said the Missouri law provides wide latitude for people to use lethal force.

St. Louis defense attorney Nina McDonnell agreed. She said prosecutors have a strong case but that the Stand Your Ground law defense is a huge hurdle to overcome.

The defendant was in his house and has expressed that he was in fear," McDonnell said.

___

Salter reported from OFallon, Missouri. Heather Hollingsworth in Mission, Kansas, contributed to this report.
FAIRFIELD  Shots were fired during a disturbance at a Villa Avenue restaurant early Saturday morning, police said.

Officers responded to the Andros Diner at 651 Villa Avenue around 2:50 a.m. Saturday for a report of a disturbance, Fairfield Police Lt. Michael Paris said Monday. The diner's website states it is open 24/7.

The shots came from a vehicle, according to Paris. No one was struck in the shooting, Paris said.

Paris said the investigation remains active, but he could not release any further information about the incident.
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP)  Andrew Lester had already gone to bed when the doorbell rang a little before 10 p.m. He got up, grabbed a gun and went to check it out. Seeing a Black male appearing to pull the handle of the front door, police say the 84-year-old white man opened fire. No questions asked.

Lester told police he believed someone was attempting to break into his house.

That belief  though wrong  could become a defense as Lester faces charges of first-degree assault and armed criminal action for shooting 16-year-old Ralph Yarl, an honor student who went to the wrong Kansas City address while attempting to pick up his younger siblings.

The case, which has stirred outrage across the country, could shine a light on one of the most common self-defense policies in the U.S  the right to protect yourself in your home. Most states have some version of a castle doctrine," either by law or court precedent, that says residents don't have to retreat when threatened in their homes but instead can respond with physical force.

Missouri is one of about 30 states that also have stand your ground laws, which provide even broader self-defense rights regardless of the location.

MISSOURI'S SELF-DEFENSE LAW

A 2007 Missouri law allows people to use deadly force under certain circumstances, including against someone who attempts to unlawfully enter a dwelling, residence or vehicle" that is occupied. The legislation, backed by the National Rifle Association, was passed overwhelmingly by the Republican-led Legislature.

Then-Gov. Matt Blunt, a Republican, enacted the law with fanfare by flying around the state to promote it.

The law "ensures law-abiding Missourians will not be punished when they use force to defend themselves and their family from attacks in their own home or vehicle, Blunt said in a statement at the time.

In 2016, Missouri lawmakers overrode the veto of then-Gov. Jay Nixon, a Democrat, to expand the castle doctrine into a broader stand your ground law  applying the no-retreat self-defense to people in any other location such person has the right to be."

Missouri's law "provides wide latitude for people to use lethal force, said Robert Spitzer, a professor emeritus of political science at the State University of New York, Cortland, whose research focuses on gun policy and politics and who wrote the book Guns Across America: Reconciling Gun Rules and Rights.

Though no shots were fired, Missouri's self-defense laws also were in the spotlight in 2020 when St. Louis attorneys Mark and Patricia McCloskey waved guns at Black Lives Matter protesters passing by their home. The McCloskeys eventually pleaded guilty to misdemeanors, but Republican Gov. Mike Parson pardoned them.

Last year, Missouri lawmakers considered legislation that would have presumed shooters claiming self-defense were acting reasonably  a measure dubbed the Make Murder Legal Act by a prosecutor opposing it. The bill failed.

A DOORBELL RING LEADS TO SHOTS

Lester turned himself in to authorities Tuesday, a day after being charged for shooting Yarl. Lester has no listed attorney, and his legal defense is not clear. But a document filed by police in support of charging Lester indicates that Lester thought he faced a threat.

Lester stated he opened the interior door, and saw a black male approximately 6 feet tall pulling on the exterior storm door handle. He stated he believed someone was attempting to break into the house, and shot twice within a few seconds of opening the door, according to the police statement. Lester told police he was "scared to death."

There apparently were no words exchanged before the shooting. Yarl told police he pressed the doorbell but didn't pull on the door. He said the man shot him in the head, then after he fell to the ground, shot him a second time in the arm. As Yarl got up to run, the man said, Don't come around here, according to the police report.

Some legal experts said Tuesday that although Lester could try to use the castle doctrine as a defense, prosecutors could counter that he did not have reasonable grounds to believe Yarl was breaking into his house.

Nothing in the law allows someone to shoot first and ask questions later when someone innocently rings a doorbell. Thats something that UPS does on a daily basis, delivery drivers, children selling Girl Scout cookies, said Ari Freilich, an attorney and state policy director with the Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence.

"Our laws cant be structured in a way that allow (guns) to be used that cavalierly, Freilich added.

OTHER SIMILAR CASES

A stand your ground law had been in effect in Florida for over six years when it was elevated to national attention by the 2012 shooting death of Trayvon Martin, a Black 17-year-old. George Zimmerman, a self-appointed neighborhood watchman who thought Martin looked suspicious, was acquitted after a trial in which his attorneys essentially used the law as a defense.

Similar laws have proliferated in states during the past two decades, and shootings with similarly disputable self-defense assertions have continued to occur. Unlike Zimmerman, some others have been convicted.

Attorneys used a self-defense argument in the trial of Travis McMichael, his father Greg McMichael and neighbor William Roddie Bryan for the 2020 shooting death of Ahmaud Arbery in Georgia, which also has a stand your ground law. The white men claimed they chased Arbery, a Black man, because they thought he was a burglar. Attorneys argued that Travis McMichael raised a gun at Arbery hoping to de-escalate the situation but shot Arbery when he turned toward him as if to fight. All three were convicted of murder.

On Saturday, just two days after Yarl was shot, a woman looking for a friends house in upstate New York was fatally shot after the car in which she riding mistakenly pulled into the wrong driveway. Kaylin Gillis, 20, was traveling through the rural town of Hebron when homeowner, Kevin Monahan, 65, came out onto his porch and fired two shots, the local sheriff's office said. Monahan has been charged with second-degree murder. New York doesn't have a stand your ground law.

___

Associated Press writer Heather Hollingsworth contributed to this report from Mission, Kansas.
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KYIV, Ukraine (AP)  Russian President Vladimir Putin visited command posts of his forces fighting in Ukraine for the second time in two months, officials said Tuesday, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made his latest trip near the front line.

The visits  on different days and in different provinces  sought to stiffen the resolve of soldiers as the war approaches its 14th month and as Kyiv readies a possible counteroffensive with Western-supplied weapons.

Some of the most significant of those weapons appeared to have recently arrived in Ukraine. Germany's official federal government website on Tuesday listed a Patriot surface-to-air guided missile system as among the military items delivered within the past week to Ukraine.

Ukraine has been pressing for Patriots and other air defense systems from its allies for months, and Germany's appeared to be the first to have arrived. Ukrainian air force spokesman Yurii Ihnat declined to confirm Tuesday that a Patriot is in Ukraine, local media outlet RBC-Ukraine reported, while stating that receiving the missiles would be a landmark event, allowing Ukrainians to knock down Russian targets at a greater distance.

Elsewhere, Kremlin video showed Putin arriving by helicopter at the command post of Russian forces in southern Ukraine's Kherson province, then flying to the headquarters of the Russian National Guard in Luhansk province, in the country's east. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the visits took place Monday.

Dressed in a dark suit, Putin attended briefings with his military brass on both of his stops. The locations of the military headquarters werent disclosed, making it impossible to assess how close they were to the front line. Nor was it possible independently to verify the video's authenticity.

On Tuesday, Zelenskyy made his latest trip to visit units in Avdiivka, an eastern city in Donetsk province where fierce battles are taking place. He heard first-hand reports about fighting and handed out awards.

Zelenskyys visits to areas feeling the brunt of Russias full-scale invasion gathered pace last month as he shuttled across the country, often by train. As with Putin, the Ukrainian president's wartime trips usually arent publicized until afterward.

While official coverage of Putin's trip showed him in mostly formal and ceremonious settings, Zelenskyy's office issued photos showing the Ukrainian president taking selfies with soldiers, eating cake with them and drinking out of paper cups.

Russias war in Ukraine has become largely deadlocked, with heavy fighting in the east, particularly around the Donestk province city of Bakhmut, which for 8 months has seen the longest and bloodiest battle so far.

Russia illegally annexed Kherson, Luhansk, Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia provinces in September, following local referendums that Ukraine and the West denounced as shams. Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak was scathing in his criticism of Putins trip, accusing him of degradation and being the author of mass murders in the war.

Large parts of Donetsk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia, as well as some areas of Luhansk province, have remained under Ukrainian control. In November, Russian forces ceded territory in Kherson province, including the regions namesake capital.

In a related development, the Moscow-appointed governor of the occupied part of Donetsk province, Denis Pushilin, went to the Belarus capital of Minsk and won pledges of support from President Alexander Lukashenko, a Putin ally.

The Kremlin forces Minsk to get involved in the war more actively in order to pressure Ukraine, Belarusian political analyst Valery Karbalevich said in a telephone interview. It is clear that Pushilins visit to Minsk has been synchronized with Putins trip to the occupied Ukrainian regions and aims to show that the Belarusian threat hasnt gone away.

During his visits, Putin congratulated the military divisions on Orthodox Easter, which was celebrated Sunday, and presented them with icons. Speaking to senior officers at the Kherson headquarters, Putin handed them a copy of an Orthodox icon he said belonged to a 19th century Russian general.

The senior officers present at the meetings reflected which ones were currently in favor with Putin. Col. Gen. Mikhail Teplinsky, the chief of Russia's airborne troops, was among the top generals at the Kherson base.

Teplinsky, a career officer who rose from lieutenant to become chief of the elite military branch, is known for being popular with his troops. Last fall, however, he was temporarily relieved of his position amid a spat with the military brass. He was restored to the job this year, and his meeting with Putin indicated he was back in favor.

A senior officer who greeted Putin in the Luhansk region, Col. Gen. Alexander Lapin, also was relieved of his duties as commanding officer in northeastern Ukraine after he was blamed for a hasty Russian pullback from parts of Kharkiv province in the face of a Ukrainian counteroffensive in September. Lapin was later named as chief of staff of the ground forces, and his meeting with Putin signaled he had the presidents trust.

Putins and Pushilin's trips came as Ukraine is preparing a new counteroffensive to reclaim occupied territories, possibly using the newly arrived Patriot.

In addition to Germany, the United States and Netherlands have pledged to provide Patriots, and a group of 65 Ukrainian soldiers trained in Oklahoma last month on how to use them.

The Patriot is a surface-to-air guided missile system first deployed in the 1980s that can target aircraft, cruise missiles and shorter-range ballistic missiles. A Patriot missile battery typically includes six mobile launchers, a mobile radar, a power generator and an engagement control center. Zelenskyy has said Ukraine needs at least 20 Patriot batteries.

Ukrainian officials have said theyre depleting Russian forces in eastern Ukraine while preparing for a counteroffensive.

Meanwhile, at least three civilians were killed and 11 wounded in Ukraine between Monday and Tuesday, according to Zelenskyy's office. Most of the casualties occurred in the Donbas, the eastern region made up of Luhansk and Donetsk provinces, the office said. Six people were wounded in artillery fire in the city of Kherson.

In another in a series of possible cross-border attacks into Russia, a drone a Russian official said was sent from Ukraine hit a military office in the Bryansk town of Novozybkov. Gov. Alexander Bogomaz said on Telegram that the building was damaged and no one was hurt. Ukrainian officials, in keeping with past practice, didn't comment on the incident.

___

Associated Press Writer Yuras Karmanau in Tallinn, Estonia, and Hanna Arhirova in Kyiv contributed.

___

Follow the APs coverage of the war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine
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Berlin (AP)  German police said Tuesday that seven soldiers were injured after armored military vehicles crashed into each other on a Bavarian highway.

Several German media outlets reported that the vehicles involved in the crash on Monday belonged to the U.S. military, but German police said they were not authorized to give out information on the nationality of the injured soldiers.
My parents were Holocaust survivors. I never knew my grandparents, or many aunts, uncles and cousins murdered in Auschwitz. With the diminishing numbers of Holocaust survivors remaining, I know that it is now my responsibility to speak up as a child of survivors.

While Ive never written publicly about my family history, my son gave a TedX Youth talk for a themed event called Turning the Tide; he spoke about his grandparents lives during and after the war and about forgiveness. We forgive, but it is important not to forget, especially today with antisemitism at a historic high. While Jews represent just 2.4 percent of those living in the United States, 55 percent of all religious hate crimes target Jewish people.

Hate escalates when biased words, attitudes and actions go unchecked. Even the Holocaust began with mere words. As early as 1919, Adolf Hitler called for the irrevocable removal of Jews from German life. Twenty years later, the persecution began in earnest. On Sept. 1,1939, Germany invaded Poland. Over the next year, Nazi Germany and its allies conquered much of Europe. Property was confiscated, identifying armbands were required, ghettos and forced labor camps established, and then the mass transport to concentration camps.

Propaganda can be deadly and dehumanizing. Lies and misinformation influence public opinion, sow discord and inspire violence. With the ubiquitous thrum of social media, misinformation is amplified. As social media users, we must stop the spread of misinformation. And despite cost-cutting measures, tech and social media giants like Twitter, Meta, Google and YouTube need to retain a robust workforce of content monitors who identify and remove the most egregious disinformation along with hate speech and extremist content.

To be sure, social media can also be used for good, especially in the hands of a new generation  grandchildren of survivors  stepping forward to tell their families stories. For example, social media influencer Montana Tucker, went to Auschwitz where her great grandparents were murdered, and her grandmother interned. She produced a video How To: Never Forget, which she hopes will reach her millions of fans  making her story, their story  and mobilizing a new generation willing to speak up against a tsunami of bigotry, hate and extremism.

Persecution was not limited to six million Jews during the Holocaust. The number of people victimized by Nazis is likely three times greater, more than 17 million. The Nazi regime brutally and systematically killed anyone who threatened their ideal of a pure Aryan race and others based on political, ideological or behavioral grounds: The Roma and Sinti people; Black people; Slavic people and Jehovas Witnesses; communists, unionists and socialists; those with mental or physical disabilities; and members of the LBGTQ+ community. There was no room for diversity and inclusion  essential components of a healthy society.

Working together to combat extremism and complacency while protecting civil rights will require global engagement, and we can apply lessons from World War II to promote justice today. During World War II, the United States stood idly by for years while Europe was engulfed in war. Domestic political considerations overshadowed a humanitarian response. Had there been more engagement earlier, millions of lives would have been saved. Today, global Western alignment against the war in Ukraine must be sustained to protect against tyranny, even recognizing the unimaginable costs in dollars and lives. Of course, there are more concerns and risk of battle fatigue. However, as Pastor Martin Niemoller reminds us, if we do not stand up for others  they will not be here for us when needed.

There are ways to make the world safer, more inclusive and equitable  permitting more immigration is an important part of the solution. The 2022 documentary, The U.S. and the Holocaust, illustrates starkly how public indifference, bureaucratic red tape and restrictive quota laws resulted in the United States permitting entry to only a small fraction of those desperately seeking refuge. Its time for Congress to move beyond partisan divides to support humane immigration and resettlement. Everyday citizens can also play a role, supporting arriving families through local community organizations, faith communities and federal programs like Welcome Corps.

Holocaust Remembrance Day is about more than remembering the forced labor and systematic murders by the Nazis in concentration camps and throughout Europe during World War II. This date of commemoration is tied to the Warsaw Ghetto uprising. It honors the Polish resistance, fighting the German occupation and the first such resistance to Hitler in Europe. Although this uprising ultimately failed, it stands as a moral victory and highlights the strength and importance of defiance in the face of threat.

The Economist estimates that if you spend just five minutes reading about each person who died in the Holocaust, it would fill every waking hour for more than 200 years. These large numbers belie the fact that each was someones child or parent, sister or brother, loved one or friend. Each had a life cut short, with dreams and ambitions unrealized. There are inspiring stories of heroism, people of all faiths who risked their lives to save others during World War II, claiming a sense of shared humanity. It is in this spirit of shared humanity that we must move forward, learning from the past to create a brighter future  starting today.

Jeannette Ickovics is a professor of psychology at Yale University.
NORWALK  For perhaps the most eye-grabbing demolition project underway in Connecticut, no one has a better seat to the show than Linda Vinci, whose Braach's Flowers is across the street from the old IMAX Theater at the Maritime Aquarium.

Work crews are dismantling the structure to make way for construction of a new train bridge spanning the Norwalk River.

But plenty of others are taking notice of the painstaking brick-by-brick deconstruction of the former movie theater, Vinci says. The hope is that the $1 billion-plus Walk Bridge Program will cause minimal disruption to businesses and residents in South Norwalk's historic core, as well as the fish, seals and other denizens at the Maritime Aquarium next door.

The Walk Bridge is among the biggest infrastructure projects in New England  and one of the most complex, at the intersection of rail, vehicle, marine and pedestrian traffic amid the tight streets of SoNo. That includes visitors to the Maritime Aquarium, one of Connecticut's busiest tourism venues.

Any disruptions could also impact rail schedules for Amtrak and Metro-North, with a possible ripple effect for riders along the larger Northeast Corridor, where the 127-year-old Walk Bridge is the oldest moveable span.

The Federal Railroad Administration lists four other Connecticut train bridges as "priority" projects  those spanning the Connecticut, Housatonic, Saugatuck and Mianus Rivers.

After five years of preparatory work on utility lines, tracks and catenary systems that continues today, the IMAX demolition represents the most dramatic milestone yet for the project, with the interior of the old theater exposed like a cutaway of a conch shell. On the opposite bank in East Norwalk on Friday, crews were erecting perimeter fencing alongside the tracks, in anticipation of construction work to replace the aging structure.

But a permit from the U.S. Coast Guard was still pending before any "in-river" construction can occur, a spokesperson with the Connecticut Department of Transportation said.

"The first phase of construction for the Walk Bridge project is expected to begin next month with staging and foundation work ahead of the major track, tower and superstructure work," said DOT spokesperson Josh Morgan, in an email response to a Hearst Connecticut Media query on the timeline.

After staging areas are established on each bank of the river, preparatory drilling will occur for a "micro-tunnel" to accommodate power and communications lines, in advance of deconstruction of the catenary towers over the Norwalk River.

As with the construction of the SoNo Collection mall at the gateway to South Norwalk, the Walk Bridge replacement has raised concerns about the impact of street closures, noise and other interruptions on area businesses. North Water Street will be restricted to a single lane this month as the IMAX demolition is wrapped up.

The Walk Bridge's swivel architecture will be replaced with a pair of spans with four tracks total that will be lifted vertically to allow boats to pass below. The new bridge is designed with 27 feet of clearance at normal operation, and 60 feet with the tracks raised.

Construction could last until 2029, according to Morgan. The Walk Bridge Prorgram is currently updating its estimate of the project's price tag.

On nearby Washington Street, there's a mix of stalwart commercial businesses and a revolving door of new ones, with one prominent vacancy surfacing at the end of last year with the closure of Beadworks at the corner to North Water Street. Across the street next to Donovan's, Los Remolinos is among the newest arrivals as the replacement for Bistro Appetit, with other newcomers including Burger Bar and Ciao Ristorante below the rail overpass heading toward the Walk Bridge.

In addition to a recent boom in apartment construction in the area, the nearby Residence Inn Norwalk is planning to add a new hotel wing. That will bring more construction crews, but also more visitors in the long run.

Braach's Flowers uses a rear courtyard for deliveries, and Vinci said she does not anticipate any major disruptions for SoNo businesses as the Walk Bridge Project ramps up this summer.

Given that many of those businesses are veterans of SoNo Collection construction, she said the neighborhood should be able to weather the work on the Walk Bridge.

"I'm optimistic," Vinci said.

Includes prior reporting by Amy Coval, Joseph Tucci and Abby Weiss.
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JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP)  Indonesias military chief on Tuesday dismissed a separatist group claim that they had killed more than a dozen government soldiers who were searching for a New Zealand pilot taken hostage by the rebels in the restive Papua region.

Adm. Yudo Margono and the militarys top brass flew to the region on Monday after initial information said attackers from the West Papua Liberation Army, the armed wing of the Free Papua Movement, ambushed 36 government soldiers in the hilly district of Nduga in mountainous Papua Highlands province.

Rebel spokesperson Sebby Sambom said in a statement on Monday that his group's fighters were holding the remains of 12 soldiers, including nine who he said were arrested and executed. The rebels offered no proof to back up their statement.

Margono confirmed only one fatality and said four other soldiers were missing. The rest returned to their post, he said. Five were wounded and were in stable condition and evacuated to a hospital in Timika, a mining city in neighboring Central Papua province.

Im here to find out directly and accurately from our troops on the ground about the exact situation, so that we can evaluate our (rescue) mission for the pilot, Margono told a news conference in Timika.

The soldiers were part of a group searching for Phillip Mark Mehrtens, a New Zealand pilot for the Indonesian aviation company Susi Air who was abducted by the rebels in February.

Margono said that soldiers who survived the shootout told him the rebels had used civilians including women and children as a human shield during the assault, making the troops hesitant to return fire and resulting in them being cornered.

I really regret that, Margono said. They have used methods that should not be done in a war.

Sambom said in an earlier statement that the rebels carried out the attack in retaliation against Indonesias massive military operation in Papua and the killings of two rebels in a shootout with security forces last month.

Margono rejected the rebel claims as fake news and said the military operations in Papua were launched with a view to keep casualties at a minimum. However, he said that authorities will increase pressure on the rebels around several separatist strongholds, including in Nduga.

The military activities in Papua have raised concern among rights group who say the security approach that had been implemented by Jakarta for decades has proven unable to resolve violence in the region.

Amnesty International Indonesia called for prioritizing dialogue with the separatists to prevent potential human rights violations and a larger humanitarian crisis.

This will not only increase the risk to the safety of civilians there, but also the New Zealands pilot who is still being held hostage, said Usman Hamid, the executive director of the group.

The rebels in February stormed a single-engine plane shortly after it landed on a small runway in Paro and abducted its pilot. The plane initially was scheduled to pick up 15 construction workers who had been building a health center after the rebels threatened to kill them.

Authorities will continue to prioritize a peaceful approach for the release of Mehrtens, Margono said.

The fighting is the latest in a series of violent incidents in recent years in Papua, a former Dutch colony in the western part of New Guinea that is ethnically and culturally distinct from much of Indonesia. Conflicts between indigenous Papuans and Indonesian security forces are common.

Papua was incorporated into Indonesia in 1969, after a U.N.-sponsored ballot that was widely seen as a sham. Since then, a low-level insurgency has simmered in the region, which is divided into five provinces since last year to boost development in Indonesia's poorest region.

Rebel attacks have spiked in recent years, with dozens of rebels, security forces and civilians killed.

Data collected by Amnesty International Indonesia showed at least 179 civilians, 35 Indonesian troops and 9 police as well as 23 independence fighters were killed in clashes between rebels and security forces between 2018 and 2022.

___

Find more AP coverage of the Asia-Pacific region at https://apnews.com/hub/asia-pacific
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BRIDGEPORT  Three days after three people were shot at a large, unpermitted music event at Seaside Park, police were called back to break up an unauthorized car show witnesses said involved dozens of out-of-state vehicles.

"It was chaos," Parks Commission Chairman Banjed Labrador, who was at the scene, recalled Monday.

Labrador and City Council members Jorge Cruz and Scott Burns met at Seaside Sunday afternoon to investigate complaints from residents about loud music and lots of cars, many from New Jersey.

Cruz represents the South End where the park is located, while Burns lives in the Black Rock neighborhood, which is separated from Seaside by water. Despite that distance, Burns said, "I heard music and then I started to hear from some constituents and realized something was going on."

All three reached out to the police department, and Cruz filmed the local law enforcement response and posted it on Facebook. His footage shows two long lines of vehicles slowly driving out of the waterfront site, which is considered one of Bridgeport's key attractions for both locals and visitors.

"They're clearing the park. Look like a bunch of ants leaving the place," Cruz narrates. "Huge crowd out here of cars. Loud music. All that stuff. Now the police is clearing the park. Great job, Bridgeport police department."

Scott Appleby, Bridgeport's director of emergency management who also handles requests for information from the police department, on Monday confirmed "there was an unsanctioned car show that was being held at Seaside Park."

He did not have specific attendance numbers but called it "a very large gathering."

"Officers responded and were able to shut it down and clear all parties without incident," Appleby said. "In addition, there were some noise violations that were handled by the police department with tickets, but again without incident."

Under city rules, such events involving over 50 people require a permit from the parks commission.

Sunday's car show was the second such big gathering at Seaside over the last few days. On Thursday evening there was what police called an "unauthorized music event" involving a disc jockey that drew more than 200 attendees, at which three people were shot and wounded.

On Friday the suspect, resident Christopher Rooche, was arraigned in state Superior Court on charges of three counts of first-degree assault and single counts of first-degree reckless endangerment, illegally firing a firearm, stealing a firearm, carrying a pistol without a permit, possession of a weapon in a motor vehicle, possession of a large capacity magazine, tampering with evidence, interfering with police, running from police, and reckless driving.

Officials Monday said the city needs to figure out a way to be more pro-active rather than re-active when it comes to controlling the use of Seaside.

"It's something we need to get on top of," Cruz's fellow South End council representative, Tyler Mack, said, noting as the weather warms there is the risk of more problems. "It's still springtime. It's not even summer yet."

Following Thursday's shootings, which occurred on an unusually hot day for mid-April, Labrador noted that this is still considered the off-season so there are fewer municipal staff and police officers assigned to the parks and visitors do not have to show the required permits.

He reiterated Monday those policies may have to be reconsidered.

"If people are there to do bad (and) don't see anybody to deter them from not doing it, guess what they're going to go do? Take a chance," Labrador said. "Do we need to maybe open the park stations where we collect tickets (permits)? Maybe. I just think we need some type of security."

He acknowledged it could be a budget issue. The police department, for example, is down around 90 officers and typically already goes over its annual overtime allotment.

Burns is co-chairman of the council's budget committee, which is currently crafting a new municipal spending plan for the 2023-24 fiscal year that begins July 1.

I think we need to look at manning the checkpoints from April 1 or when the weather dictates," Burns said. "I dont have a perfect answer, but the status quo's not working.

Cruz agreed. He said Monday he was thankful the car show ended peacefully  "They told the cops they did not know they needed a permit"  but similar situations need to be avoided in the future.

"We must come up with some kind of practical solution," Cruz said. "The park (use) is free until Memorial Day and people are just abusing it."
As Connecticut grapples with how to add affordable housing, the next few years will likely bring questions about how best to preserve the stock that already exists.

The state is at risk of losing more than 5,000 affordable housing units in the next five years, according to estimates from the National Housing Preservation Database.

Rules that require certain housing units to be rented at affordable rates will expire on thousands of units, while other units are likely to fall into disrepair and become unsafe.

The preservation of affordable housing tends to grab less attention than other issues related to the states housing stock, but its an important piece of the conversation as Connecticut looks to expand the number of affordable units, housing experts said. The state lacks tens of thousands of units of housing that are affordable and available to its lowest income renters.

Affordable housing adds to the fabric of the community, it adds to the diversity of the community, said Renee Dobos, chief operating officer at the development group Connecticut Housing Partners. At the end of the day, if we didnt have affordable housing, we would have a homelessness crisis. Its really important for the vibrancy of our entire state to have affordable housing.

Preservation has increasingly become a national point of concern because the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit, the countrys largest program for financing affordable housing developments, is more than 30 years old.

The program requires that for all properties financed after 1990, at least 20% of the units are designated affordable for at least 30 years. States can incentivize or require longer periods of affordability.

More and more properties nationally are at risk of losing their affordability requirements as the 30-year requirement expires, said Andrew Aurand, senior vice president for research at the National Low Income Housing Coalition. Over the next five years, about 158,800 units in the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program are at risk of expiring.

With all sources considered, the nation is at risk of losing more than 327,500 units of affordable housing in the next five years, according to the preservation database.

What happens to those low-income residents who are currently in those buildings?, Aurand said. We are very concerned about that, particularly for the residents who have the lowest incomes. There really are very few options, and they would have a very difficult time finding other housing.

Its of particular concern in areas with tight housing markets, where developers might be incentivized to sell the property or increase rents, Aurand added.

Connecticuts Housing Finance Authority typically works with developers to ensure that the units remain affordable, said Nandini Natarajan, chief executive officer at the finance authority.

Even if properties are able to maintain their affordability restrictions, many of them need renovations in order to be livable, Aurand said.

Theres still an issue in terms of quality of those buildings, he said. They may be affordable, but they may still need some reinvestment.

Preserving affordability

This year alone, about 300 of the state's low-income housing tax credit units are set to lose affordability requirements. By 2033, more than 5,000 are scheduled to expire, according to data from the Connecticut Housing Finance Authority.

The bulk of those units are in larger cities such as New Haven, Stamford and Bridgeport, data show.

A couple of years ago, the finance authority adopted a preservation policy so staffers can work with property owners to preserve the housing affordability, Natarajan said.

We would be asking them, what are you planning on doing with the property? Are you going to own it for the long term? Are you planning on selling it?" she said.

The finance authority can offer financial incentives to help owners restore their properties in exchange for extended affordability, Natarajan said.

And the finance authority gives additional points during the application process for developers who promise to preserve the affordability requirements for 50 years, she added.

Rehabilitating housing

In a tight housing market like Connecticuts where rents have risen in recent months, whether a developer wants to keep the affordability requirements may come down to whether their organization is driven by mission or money, said Sean Ghio, policy director at the Partnership for Strong Communities.

When those affordability restrictions expire, and youre in a very tight housing market, it makes sense that certain developers wouldnt extend those restrictions, Ghio said.

Natarajan said that many of the developers the finance authority works with are nonprofits like Dobos organization, Connecticut Housing Partners.

Developers typically tap into funds from additional sources outside the federal tax credit program in order to make the financing work, Dobos said. The state has a couple of programs including the FLEX and Housing Trust funds as well as some loan programs. There are also federal financing programs available.

I need as much money as I can, Dobos said. I need to build a capital stack that has multiple funding sources. Its not just one.

When Dobos groups properties come up on their affordability requirements, they take the opportunity to renovate. The properties are spread across several cities including Bridgeport, Stamford and Trumbull.

We do everything  windows, new flooring, possible infrastructure issues, she said. Its really like a gut rehab because it needs to last another 20 years.

Municipalities

Some towns are working toward preserving aging housing stock as well. For example, Fairfield has a program funded with federal money that rehabilitates small multi-family apartment buildings.

They offer this as a no-interest, declining balance loan, said Mark Barnhart, director of the towns Office of Community & Economic Development.

In exchange for participation in the program, landlords agree to restrict certain units as affordable for the life of the loan  typically about 40 years, Barnhart said. After the loan ends, landlords can enter into one-year contracts with the local housing authority to keep the housing affordable.

It works out well for the investor, and we're providing much-needed housing units for folks with vouchers, he said.

The program has been ongoing for several years and has been of particular interest to landlords who use it to purchase and rehabilitate aging housing, although interest has waned more recently.

We had some limited interest in it, and it's just dissipated over time, Barnhart said. It was at one point very active, but there has been less and less interest.

The town has since been focused more on the rehabilitation of housing that was damaged during Hurricane Sandy. Some of the housing is set aside as affordable, he said.

Many town officials may not be aware of the issue, said Melissa Kaplan-Macey, Connecticut director of the Regional Plan Association. If affordability requirements expire, it would affect a municipalitys count toward 8-30g, the state law that encourages affordable housing in towns. The law offers court remedies to developers whose affordable housing applications are denied. Towns that have at least 10% of their housing stock set aside as affordable are exempt.

The affordable housing law is designed to increase Connecticuts deed-restricted affordable housing stock, meaning housing that is financed at least in part by the government. It includes developments built under the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit and housing choice vouchers, among other programs.

I would guess that that would be very frustrating, Kaplan-Macey said. It would seem that towns would be anxious to preserve that housing.

Some have pointed to the expirations as proof of the need to reform 8-30g. Republicans proposed such a measure this session, which housing advocates opposed.

Christie Stewart, director of Fairfield Countys Center for Housing Opportunity, said that the state needs a stronger response to housing preservation.

The state Department of Housing has a program to repair crumbling foundations, a problem found in thousands of homes in north central and northeastern Connecticut. It also has lead paint remediation, among other programs.

But its not on the scale the state needs to completely solve the housing preservation issue, Stewart said. Its typically cheaper to repair an existing house than to build anew, she said.

The naturally occurring stock tends to be old and in need of capital repair, and if we cant keep up with those capital needs, its never going to get replaced with housing that is going to be as affordable as what was there, Stewart said.
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AKRON, Ohio (AP)  An Ohio grand jury declined to indict eight police officers who fired 94 shots in the death of Jayland Walker, a 25-year-old Black man who fired at least one round at officers during a car and foot chase last summer, the state's attorney general announced Monday.

Walker was shot 46 times in a hail of gunfire that lasted just under seven seconds and roiled yet another city amid heightened tensions with police over the killing of a Black man that started with a routine traffic stop.

Akron's mayor and police chief urged residents Monday to protest peacefully, acknowledging that many are angry with the shooting last June that Walkers family has called brutal and senseless.

Turn toward one other and not on each other, said Mayor Daniel Horrigan.

Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost said the state's investigation found that Walker jumped out of his still-moving car, ran from police and ignored commands to stop and show his hands. Some of the officers first used Tasers to try and stop Walker, Yost said.

But Walker reached toward his waistband and raised a hand as officers were chasing, Yost said. The officers, not knowing Walker left his gun in the car, believed he was going to fire again, Yost said. He said it is critical to remember that Walker had shot first.

Responding with tears and frustration at a subsequent press conference, the Walker family and their supporters mourned the grand jurys decision and called on Akron residents to protest loudly for justice and change. Democratic U.S. Rep. Emilia Sykes, of Akron, said she will ask the U.S. Justice Department to investigate the patterns and practices of the Akron Police Department.

I still cant comprehend how a young man has 46 bullet holes from officers and that is justified, Sykes said while also urging people to honor Walkers memory by protesting peacefully. I ask you to remember the words of Jaylands family by speaking up. But do so without violence.

The family and the NAACP previously have called on the Justice Department to open a federal civil rights investigation.

Bobby DiCello, an attorney for Walker's family, criticized the state's investigation, saying police gunned down Walker execution-style. Paige White, another attorney for the family, said the investigation was skewed in favor of the police and that Jayland didnt have a chance.

Akron Police Department, when you call for peace, when you call for no destruction, when you call for respect  where was your respect for Jayland? White said.

The state investigation said police first saw Walker driving with a broken taillight and a broken light on his rear license plate, but they decided not to follow him. They saw him 10 minutes later at the same intersection and became suspicious, Yost said.

Police said Walker refused to stop and then fired a shot from his car 40 seconds into the pursuit.

Officers chased the car on a freeway and city streets until Walker bailed from the still-moving vehicle and ran into a parking lot where he was killed while wearing a ski mask, body cam video showed. Authorities said he represented a deadly threat. A handgun, a loaded magazine and a wedding ring were found on the drivers seat of his car.

Police union officials said the officers thought there was an immediate threat of serious harm and that their actions were in line with their training and protocols.

Dash-cam video from a police cruiser captured images of Walker firing the gun from his car, said Anthony Pierson, an assistant state attorney general. Walker had no criminal history and had never fired a gun until he went to a shooting range with a friend in early June, Pierson said.

At the time of the shooting, Walker was grieving his fiancees recent death, and his family and Pierson said his actions that night were out of character.

That night he encountered the police he wasnt acting himself, Pierson said. By all accounts he was a good person, a good man.

Authorities checked Walkers online history and found in the weeks before his death searches for phrases including drinking bleach and quickest ways to die, according to an investigative report released Monday.

The report also contained information from a Euclid, Ohio, police captain who told investigators that Walkers best friend interviewed for a police job in that city days after Walkers death and suggested it had been suicide by cop.

But when interviewed by investigators, the friend strongly disputed that, telling detectives that Walker was distraught but never mentioned suicide.

Pierson was asked at the news conference if Walkers death could have been suicide. He declined to speculate about Walkers state of mind but said there was no direct evidence he was suicidal.

Akron Police Chief Steve Mylett said Monday that the city will begin an internal investigation into the shooting, but he would not release the names of the eight officers because of ongoing threats against them.

The officers, who initially were placed on leave, will remain on administrative duties. None of the eight officers appear to have been disciplined for any previous use of force incidences, according to investigation records released by the state.

While the grand jurys decision shows no crime was committed by the officers, "in no way does that take away from the tragedy of June 27, Mylett said.

Attorneys for the eight officers released a statement calling the incident a tragedy for the entire community, including Walker's family and all of the officers who were involved. A split-second decision to use lethal force is one that every police officer hopes he or she will never be forced to make, the statement said.

A county medical officer said the autopsy found no illegal drugs or alcohol were detected in Walker's body.

After taking over the investigation last summer at the request of Akron police, prosecutors with the Ohio attorney generals office presented the case to the grand jury.

City set up a designated protest zone downtown outside city hall, where plywood covered the first-floor windows. Temporary fencing circled the county courthouse and many businesses boarded up their windows.

But hours after the grand jury's decision, the protest zone was almost entirely empty on a cold, windy night mixed with snow flurries and rain.

The city's school district canceled classes on Tuesday in the wake of the grand jury announcement.

Less than 24 hours before the chase, police in neighboring New Franklin Township had tried to stop a car matching Walkers, also for unspecified minor equipment violations. A supervisor there called off the pursuit when the car crossed the townships border with Akron.

___

Seewer reported from Toledo. Associated Press writers Julie Carr Smyth and Samantha Hendrickson in Columbus, Ohio and Michael Rubinkam in Allentown, Pennsylvania, contributed.
Donald Trump's campaign team is preparing for a state-by-state legal battle later this year over untested claims that a Civil War-era clause in the U.S. Constitution bars the former president from appearing on Republican primary ballots because of his role in the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection.

Two nonprofit groups who do not disclose all their donors, Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) and Free Speech For People, have prepared multipronged legal strategies to challenge Trump across the country under Section 3 of the 14th Amendment. They have written letters to state election officials calling on them to block Trump from the ballot, while separately preparing voter lawsuits and state election board complaints.

Section 3 - ratified in 1868 to punish Confederate officials after the war - disqualifies any "officer of the United States" from future public office who, after taking an oath to support the U.S. Constitution, has "engaged in insurrection or rebellion against" the country. Attorneys at both groups argue that Trump's role before and during the Jan. 6 riot is evidence he "engaged in insurrection," a claim that was specifically endorsed by the House select committee that investigated the attack.

"It is a strategy designed to enforce the Constitution to bar Trump from serving as president," CREW chief counsel Donald Sherman said of the legal efforts. "We have had two major insurrections in this country. One was the Civil War, which gave rise to Section 3. And one was Jan. 6."

But there is little recent legal precedent to guide courts on how to apply Section 3. Opponents of the effort are likely to argue that state elections officials have a ministerial role that does not allow them to bar candidates under the constitution, according to attorneys familiar with the issues. They will likely also argue that Trump did not engage in an "insurrection," that Section 3 should not apply to a candidate before an election and that there needs to be an act of Congress to enforce Section 3. Legal scholars have also raised questions about whether a former president who has never served in another office counts as an "officer" under the clause.

"What these undemocratic organizations are doing is blatant election interference and tampering," Trump campaign spokesman Steven Cheung said in a statement. "They are not even trying to hide it anymore and it is sad they want to deprive the American people of choosing Donald Trump - the overwhelming front-runner by far - as their President. History will not judge them kindly."

Opponents also warn of the damage judges or election officials would do to the electoral process if they intervene to deny Republican voters the option of choosing Trump after much of the campaign season has passed. The Section 3 challenges cannot be filed until Trump applies for or is granted ballot access late this year, attorneys say, giving the courts just a matter of months to decide on the merits of the claim before votes are cast in the nomination fight.

"The practical implications of this is the greatest disruption of our electoral system that has been contemplated since the Civil War," said James Bopp, a conservative attorney who represented two members of Congress last year whose ballot access was unsuccessfully challenged under Section 3. "On a practical level, this is so cynical and would be so destructive, it is actually in my view beyond comprehension."

The political implications of the coming fight, meanwhile, are difficult to predict. Several of Trump's Republican rivals have signaled that they will make Trump's electability in a general election an issue, an argument that could be aided by courtroom drama about his role in Jan. 6. Lawyers on both sides of the issue say if a judge ruled that Section 3 applies in any state, the case would likely be immediately appealed to federal court and potentially fast-tracked to the Supreme Court for review.

Efforts to boot Trump from the ballot could also further solidify Republican support behind the former president, echoing Trump's boost in polls and fundraising that accompanied his recent indictment by a New York prosecutor this month on charges of falsifying business records to cover up hush money payments to an adult-film star. Republican rivals would also be pressured to file amicus briefs supporting Trump in the legal fight, Trump advisers argue.

"This is a prime example of election interference. They are writing Donald Trump's message themselves," said one Trump campaign adviser. "The question is really what judge is going to grant any one of these states the ability to interfere with the American electoral process ... We are very aware of the task before us."

The adviser said the Trump team expects legal challenges in blue states such as California, New York, Connecticut, Oregon, Maryland, Massachusetts, Washington and Michigan. But the groups have not ruled out a far broader strategy, and some attorneys studying the issue have pointed to North Carolina and Georgia as ripe targets for a Section 3 challenge.

Both CREW and Free Speech For People are nonpartisan nonprofits that are not required by law to disclose their donors, but they have a long history of working in concert with Democratic policy priorities. LinkedIn founder Reid Hoffman, a major Democratic donor who opposes Trump's reelection, has given money to support the Free Speech For People's work on this issue, according to a person familiar with the donation who spoke on the condition of anonymity since the gift had not been disclosed.

Free Speech For People has also been working with Mi Familia Vota, a Latino voting group that ran ads against Trump in the 2020 election. The group has launched a campaign to pressure Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold, who is the chair of the Democratic Association of Secretaries of State, to prevent Trump from appearing on that state's ballot because of Section 3, with an upcoming rally scheduled for April 26 in Denver.

Griswold's office did not respond to requests for comment.

"The Latino community and the immigrant community became target number one during his administration," Mi Familia Vota's executive director Hector Sanchez Barba said. "This is so important to us as an organization."

Ron Fein, the legal director of Free Speech For People, said his group has reached out to elections officials in all states to prepare the groundwork for legal challenges. He helped lead Section 3 challenges last year against Reps. Madison Cawthorn (R-N.C.) and Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.). The Cawthorn case was dismissed after he lost his primary for reelection, and the Greene case ended in defeat when a judge ruled that her actions after taking the oath of office did not constitute engaging in an insurrection.

Fein said the fact pattern about Trump's role in Jan. 6 is more clear.

"Our goals are to force Donald Trump to answer questions under oath about his involvement in the January 6 insurrection, and to obtain court decisions holding that he is disqualified from public office and excluding him from the ballot," Fein said in a statement.

CREW successfully represented a group of New Mexico residents last year in a case that ended with a state judge disqualifying Otero County Commissioner Couy Griffin from office under Section 3 because of his role in the events of Jan. 6. The judge found that Griffin "engaged in insurrection" by working to mobilize people for violence at the Capitol, breaching the Capitol police barricades and then joined the crowd in chants as they attacked the building. The New Mexico Supreme Court dismissed Griffin's appeal of the ruling.

Free Speech For People has since drafted a declaration that secretaries of state could use to bar Trump from the ballot. The draft notes that Congress has described Jan. 6 as an insurrection, as have multiple courts around the country. The draft also cites legal precedent from 1869 and 1871 that held, like the New Mexico court, that a person does not have to commit violence to be found to have engaged in insurrection.

Gerard Magliocca, a law professor at Indiana University, has written extensively on Section 3 and advised both groups now seeking to apply the clause to Trump. He has noted that Section 3 was clearly applied to Jefferson Davis, the former president of the Confederate States, who did not fight personally in the Civil War and was not convicted of a crime.

Magliocca said the ongoing Justice Department investigation of Trump for his role in the Jan. 6 attack could also factor into how courts, including the Supreme Court, view the Section 3 claim.

"I think there will be some judicial decisions saying he is ineligible," Magliocca said. "If he is indicted in these other cases, that increases the possibility that you can find five justices who will be interested in disqualifying him."
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AUSTIN, Texas (AP)  It was getting close to midnight Tuesday when Kimberly Mata-Rubio finally got her first chance since the Robb Elementary School massacre in Uvalde  nearly one year ago  to ask Texas lawmakers to their faces to pass proposed restrictions on guns that had finally gotten a hearing.

Sobbing, she pleaded for them to raise the purchase age for semiautomatic rifles like the one an 18-year-old gunman used to kill her daughter Lexi.

Did you look at images of children running for their lives, and think, What if we had enacted stricter gun laws?'" Mata-Rubio asked a state House committee, wiping away tears.

The hearing adjourned  shortly after 3 a.m. Wednesday  without a vote, and with no certainty that one will happen later.

The result was the end, in the middle of the night, of what may wind up as the only debate in the Texas Capitol this year over a raft of stricter gun proposals filed following the deaths of 19 children and two teachers in Uvalde last May.

Other than the late-night hearing, Republican leaders in Texas have not announced any other intention to consider or vote on proposed gun measures before the session ends next month.

As the drumbeat of mass shootings marches on in the U.S., the emotional hearing underlined mounting frustration over gun violence. Gun supporters also stayed late, including a National Rifle Association lobbyist and a man who legally wore a holstered handgun, as well as others who offered sympathies to Uvalde families before urging lawmakers to reject what they called an infringement of their rights.

The hearing went over the grim scene investigators found in the fourth-grade classroom at Robb Elementary after police finally confronted the gunman after 77 minutes, including descriptions that Uvalde families had not previously heard. Many in the room cried.

The string of recent mass shootings has reenergized gun control advocates nationwide, but in Texas, their prospects remain bleak. Republican Gov. Greg Abbott has waved aside talk of raising the age to purchase AR-15-like rifles as unconstitutional and earlier this year made no mention of Uvalde while laying out the priorities of his third term.

The office of Republican state Rep. Ryan Guillen, chairman of the House Select Community Safety Committee, did not immediately respond to a message Wednesday about whether he intends to hold a vote on the gun control bills.

Time is running out: The anniversary of the Uvalde shooting is May 24, just days before the Texas Legislature is scheduled to adjourn until 2025.

This is not an issue of maturity. This is an issue of mental health, said Stephen Willeford, who in 2017 ran off the gunman in the Sutherland Springs church shooting by confronting him with his own AR-15 rifle. If you think that he couldn't have found a gun other ways, or waited simply until he was 21 to do his murder spree, you're wrong.

A shooting that killed four young people at a Sweet Sixteen birthday party in Alabama last weekend was the 16th mass killing of the year in the United States. A 17th took place in Maine on Tuesday. A total of 88 people have died in the killings so far in 2023.

A mass killing is defined as when four or more people were slain, other than the perpetrator, according to a database maintained by The Associated Press and USA Today in partnership with Northeastern University.

Before the Kentucky shooting, a gunman in Nashville, Tennessee, last month killed three children and three adults at a private elementary school. Republican Gov. Bill Lee responded by signing an executive order strengthening background checks for gun purchases.

On Wednesday, Washington state's Democratic-controlled Legislature passed a bill to ban dozens of types of semiautomatic rifles, with Gov. Jay Inslee expected to sign it into law. In Colorado, lawmakers debated a slew of aggressive gun control bills, though a sweeping ban on semiautomatic firearms faced much stiffer odds.

Mata-Rubio is among a group of several Uvalde parents who have been outspoken in their demands for tougher gun laws since the shooting. Before urging the committee to vote to raise the purchase age, she shared the alternative scenarios she still asks herself: What if Lexi had stayed home that week with a stomach bug? What if she had picked her up from school early that day?

She scolded lawmakers for making her wait more than 12 hours at the Capitol to testify. "Did you think we would go home? she said.

For years in Texas, Republicans have waved aside efforts to tighten gun laws after mass shootings, and even expanded gun rights after the 2019 racist attack on a Walmart in El Paso. Rather than have debates on gun bills this session, Republicans have instead pushed forward proposals to increase mental health services and increase school security.

Tess didnt have a choice in life and death, said Veronica Mata, referring to her 10-year-old daughter who was killed in the Uvalde classroom. But you as lawmakers have a choice in what her life will be remembered for.
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Alert: Arab media say Sudanese army agrees to 24-hour cease-fire, starting Tuesday evening, hours after rival forces said same
This Sunday, at 3pm, just as most of us are settling down for a post-prandial nap, the Government intends to rattle our collective cages by invading our mobile phones  and our privacy  with its absurd emergency test signal.

Broadly reminiscent of those sirens in 1960s Cold War movies  where the hero finally claws his way out of the gulag with a toothpick, only to be captured and strung up by his toes  the notion is as terrifying as it is tiresome.

Tiresome because you can't opt out of the damn thing  well, not unless you disable the notification or turn off your phone  and because 3pm on Sunday is about the only time any of us gets to relax these days.

And terrifying because it's a reminder of the tyranny imposed on all of us by the technology that has invaded our homes like Japanese knotweed, infiltrating every aspect of our daily lives, making itself indispensable while becoming increasingly insidious.

Like the NHS's hated 'Test and Trace' app (confession: I never downloaded it), this 'emergency alert' system has ostensibly been developed for our own protection.

This Sunday, at 3pm, just as most of us are settling down for a post-prandial nap, the Government intends to rattle our collective cages by invading our mobile phones  and our privacy  with its absurd emergency test signal

It's terrifying because it's a reminder of the tyranny imposed on all of us by the technology that has invaded our homes like Japanese knotweed, infiltrating every aspect of our daily lives, making itself indispensable while becoming increasingly insidious, writes Sarah Vine

But in reality, it's just another example of the micro-chipping away of our privacy and autonomy: another attempt by the Government and its agencies to monitor and manipulate us via the all-seeing eye that now controls our lives  the smartphone.

They already know where we shop, what we eat, how much we spend, where we go  and now they plan to take control of our emotions by randomly scaring the Yorkshire puds out of us for no discernible reason.

Because, after all, what can this thing tell us that we can't already get on the news? And what can we  or for that matter the Government  realistically do about any of these so-called 'emergencies' they'll be warning us about?

Let's face it, they can't even control the nursing unions. So what hope have they got against Mother Nature?

And besides, human beings are supposedly quite an intelligent species. I think we know to stay indoors in the event of an imminent nuclear strike, or abnormally large hailstones. And if we don't  well, that's our choice. Call it free will, call it natural selection; but governments have no right to invade the private lives of citizens in this way.

However, perhaps the most frustrating thing about this emergency alert nonsense is that it ignores a genuine threat to our lives, one the Government appears to be completely oblivious to  despite the fact it poses a far greater risk to humanity than anything Vladimir Putin can throw at us. I'm talking about AI. Or, more specifically, AGI.

AI stands for Artificial Intelligence. AGI is Artificial General Intelligence, which is next-level stuff. Crudely speaking, the former merely emulates the human brain  the latter has the capacity to far supersede it.

Within the tech industry, this is what's known as 'God-like AI': a super-intelligent system with the ability to learn and evolve independently, and capable of responding to and manipulating its environment without the need for human supervision.

AI poses a far greater risk to humanity than anything Vladimir Putin can throw at us, writes Sarah Vine

This kind of AI not only has the ability to replace humans in ways that we are already witnessing, it also has the potential to eliminate the need for us altogether. And it is already doing so. From brands using AI-generated fashion models instead of real ones (as highlighted in yesterday's Mail) to AI-generated photographs duping the judges of a major arts prize, this technology is already blurring the boundaries between what is real and what is not.

And OI  organic intelligence, aka humans  increasingly looks surplus to requirements.

There is nothing new, of course, in the idea of the human race becoming so advanced it ends up destroying itself. But until recently, this has seemed like the preserve of science fiction. Not any more.

And it is, of course, our very humanity that threatens to be our downfall. Humans are hot-blooded, imperfect, fallible: we possess complex emotions.

But AI is cold, perfect, infallible. It's never tired or emotional, it doesn't ask for sick days, it never misses the bus or sleeps in, it won't burst into tears if you say the wrong thing. It's not lustful, greedy and wasteful or silly, soppy and romantic.

It may appear human, even act human, but it doesn't possess a heart. At the end of the day, it's just maths.

It will look at the human race and, perhaps correctly, judge itself to be a more efficient alternative. And if we let it, it will do what it's designed to do: fix the problem. Fix us.

It's already doing it, and it's doing so because we're asking it to, and giving it more and more power over our lives: fix the way we look; fix our spelling errors and grammatical slip-ups; make us look younger, cleverer, more efficient.

OI  organic intelligence, aka humans  increasingly looks surplus to requirements. Pictured: Skynet - an AI system which turned on humans in Terminator 2

But there is a difference between technology that enhances the human experience and something that renders us obsolete. And that is what more and more people in the world of AI are now saying could happen.

From Elon Musk, who warns that AI, if left unchecked, has the power to destroy civilisations, to the co-founder of Apple, Steve Wozniak, the message is unequivocal: it's time everyone pressed pause on this particular project.

These are not technophobes who oppose progress. These are experts, trailblazers in the field. And when even the head of Google, Sundar Pichai, admits he doesn't 'fully understand' how the company's AI system Bard managed to teach itself Bengali without being prompted or programmed to do it, that is truly terrifying.

When Pichai adds that no one fully understands how it works, save to say that the thing possesses what he calls 'emergent properties'  in other words, the capacity to act independently, according to its own will  then that's not just a red flag, it's a full-on air-raid siren.

God-like AI, you say? Sounds more like the Apocalypse to me.

Even Elon Musk (pictured) warns that AI, if left unchecked, has the power to destroy civilisations

And yet so far, to my knowledge, no one in government has even raised this as a serious threat. Too busy, apparently, developing some stupid alarm system designed to ruin our Sunday afternoon while ignoring the gigantic firestorm coming our way.

This is not the Cold War. We don't need sirens warning us of impending catastrophe. Our biggest threat isn't from a far-away foreign power: it's from the thing on the end of our USB chargers.

Time to wake up and smell the lithium, guys. Before it's too late.

If medical student Eilidh Garrett, who lives in Manchester, is in any way representative of her colleagues, no wonder junior doctors are demanding a 35 per cent pay rise.

The 26-year-old, who has been a vocal supporter of the BMA and has attacked the Government on social media for its 'lack of moral decency', was unable to join picket lines last week because she was undergoing liposuction on her thighs and abdomen. Moral decency? Do me a favour.

My quiche fit for a Queen

Many moons ago, before I was married, I was entertaining a young gentleman friend (let's call him Michael Gove) for dinner.

In a vague attempt to illustrate my domestic goddess credentials, I produced a Nigella Lawson-inspired quiche Lorraine.

He contemplated it for a few seconds then asked, somewhat waspishly, whether this was my way of getting him to take me out for supper. I was reminded of this by the news that the official dish of the Coronation is . . . a quiche.

King Charles III and the Queen Consort have shared a recipe for 'Coronation Quiche'

Proof that real men (or real Kings) do eat quiche? Or just further evidence that Queen Camilla wears the ermine trousers in our beloved monarch's marriage?

Either way, I shall certainly be adding Quiche LaReine to my culinary repertoire.

Don't all rush at once, chaps.

Having been a lifelong Marmite lover, I finally realise why. A Channel 4 documentary has lifted the lid on how the black gold is made  and it turns out it's basically beer.

So that explains it: I've been having booze on toast for breakfast for the past 50 years. Cheers!
All my life I've been walking the lush, green valleys of the Brecon Beacons. In winter, I've scaled the red sandstone peaks in howling gales. In boiling heat, I've gasped for water on the slopes of Pen y Fan, the highest peak in South Wales.

I'll go on exploring the Brecon Beacons for the rest of my life. But I will never, ever call them either the Bannau Brycheiniog  pronounced 'Ban-eye Bruck-ein-iog'  or, informally, the Bannau.

And I'll tell you why. The new name, which took effect yesterday, has been imposed without consulting any of the thousands of local residents (or 4 million annual visitors) who so enjoy this breath-takingly beautiful landscape.

It is purely the brainchild of an unholy alliance of virtue-signalling politicians and civil servants who appear to be prepared to spend taxpayers' money on the most lame of initiatives, as long as they can be passed off as contributing in some way to the sunlit uplands of 'net zero'.

These self-indulgent pen-pushers have unilaterally declared that the old name  notably the word 'beacon'  is out of step with their battle against climate change and 'does not fit with the ethos' of the national park as an eco-friendly organisation.

A look at one of the waterfalls in Brecon Beacons National Park, Wales

Or, as Catherine Mealing-Jones, the chief executive of Brecon Beacons National Park, put it: 'We've had awful wildfires over the last few years. So anything that kind of promotes that idea that fire in the landscape is a good thing made us feel it probably wasn't the look we're going for.'

What infantilising claptrap. Does she really think the word 'beacon' is going to encourage visitors to rush outside with matches and firewood?

Park bosses also argue that the change to a Welsh name promotes the area's culture and heritage. Fair enough, but why not keep the English name we all know the area by alongside the Welsh? That would be too reasonable, of course. It is now to be known officially only by its Welsh name.

Naturally, the expensively produced short film that promotes the change is fronted by that professional Welshman, the actor Michael Sheen, who pretentiously pronounces it 'an old name for a new way of being'.

And so this national park has been condemned to be known as something both unpronounceable and unmemorable. Bannau is the plural of 'ban', meaning peak in Welsh; and Brycheiniog refers to the kingdom of the 5th-century Welsh king Brychan. So, in English, the name means 'The Peaks of Brychan's Kingdom'.

Catchy it is not. Indeed, I would bet a pound to a penny that it will go the way of Uluru, the Aboriginal name for Ayers Rock, that conspicuously failed to gain traction in Australia following its introduction in 1993.

But that won't stop a very expensive makeover in Wales, with traces of the old name already being systematically eradicated from the park.

Defenders of the name-change claim there's never been any evidence of beacons being used as signal fires on the mountains to warn of an imminent invasion  and so the attractive old signposts, with their distinctive flaming brazier logo, must go.

'I'll go on exploring the Brecon Beacons for the rest of my life. But I will never, ever call them either the Bannau Brycheiniog'

In fact, there's no proof that the mountains weren't the site of beacons. And how romantic it would be if they did indeed relay messages across the country  in the same way that, to this day, beacons are lit across Britain at times of great national celebration.

Only a literal-minded, cold-hearted fool would insist that our miraculous, lovely place names  many of which date back over 2,000 years to a time before the Romans turned up  should be dull, meticulously correct references to a place's history and geography.

But the crashingly dull wokerati refuse to accept how powerfully evocative they are to people who've used them all their lives, have heard them said by their parents and grandparents, and read them in centuries-old books.

Thanks to these philistines, the greenhouse-gas emitting beacon will be replaced by a new logo that incorporates elements of a king's crown and the starry skies, hills and watercourses of the park.

The mountains were originally called the Brecknock Beacons in the 18th century. Yes, they were known as Bannau Brycheiniog before that, in the 16th century, as defenders of the name change will tell you at length.

But to turn the clock back 500 years is as nuts as the decision last year by the Snowdonia National Park to use the Welsh name Yr Wyddfa for the mountain we all think of as Mount Snowdon.

In 50 years of visiting the Brecon Beacons, I've never heard them referred to as Bannau Brycheiniog. And what of Brecon, the beautiful market town that lies at the foot of the Brecon Beacons? Are the name-changing zealots going to change its name to Brycheiniog, too?

Well, best of luck with the 8,000 residents of Brecon on that one. They love their town name. And who, at a time of galloping national debt and a cost-of-living crisis, will appreciate the small fortune the local council would have to spend on new street signs?

This absurd decision is typical of a growing trend among public authorities and politicians up and down the country. We have a generation of administrators who appear to think that the only way they can justify their existence is to administer one woke gesture or another.

Three years ago, interfering busybodies in Carmarthen, just west of the Brecon Beacons, tried to knock down the Picton Monument, the handsome obelisk that towers over the town and is named after Sir Thomas Picton, an officer killed at the Battle of Waterloo and also known as the Tyrant of Trinidad for his brutal rule over the island.

A look at the Welsh national park in the snow

Unlike the body that runs the Brecon Beacons, however, Carmarthenshire County Council had the good sense to canvas the views of local people. Two-thirds of those who responded wanted to keep both the monument and its name. And so it survived untouched, thank God, by the meddlers who wanted to eradicate yet another stone pillar of Britain's history.

But there is an authoritarian streak in Welsh politics that stretches to the very top. First Minister Mark Drakeford is a dyed-in-the-wool Corbynista, whose pitch for the Labour leadership in Wales was backed by the hard-Left campaign group Momentum.

Local and national government in Wales is riddled with incompetence as a result.

Take the health service. Thanks to the terrible state of the NHS in Wales, 15,581 people have died since 2016 while waiting for an operation. Meanwhile, ambulance response times are at their slowest ever.

Two years ago, the Welsh government's fanatical pursuit of reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050 led it to announce a freeze on all new road-building projects.

This week it emerged the policy had left the Welsh government with a pointless property portfolio worth 22 million. After compulsorily purchasing the homes of 38 local residents to make way for a new M4 relief road by the Severn Bridge, Drakeford and his colleagues then decided not to build it after all.

This criminal waste of our money by our Keystone Cop rulers, combined with the changing of place names, has been going on for decades.

My only hope is that Bannau Brycheiniog goes the way of the Welsh county names brought in under Ted Heath's loopy Local Government Act of 1972. It replaced the ancient, harmonious names of Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire, for example, which were incorporated into one vast county called Dyfed.

Dyfed County Council was, thank goodness, abolished in 1996  and the names of the two historic counties were reinstated.

Let's hope that history repeats itself when it comes to that blessed plot in South Wales I love so much.
Diana's show-stopping LBD was no coincidence. And besides her wedding gown it was to become her most famous frock

It's 1994. Your husband has just admitted to cheating on you to the entire world. You're due to be at an event and all eyes will inevitably be on you.

The saying goes, revenge is a dish best served cold, but Diana chose to serve it piping hot.

As she strode out of her limousine towards the Serpentine Gallery in London's Hyde Park, she greeted people full of poise and confidence.

Her dazzling smile almost outshone the huge sapphire sparkling in the centre of her pearl choker.

She held her head high. Her hair caught in the fading sun, and notably she was still wearing her sapphire engagement ring.

Yet it was her black off-the-shoulder dress with matching-chiffon scarf flying behind from the waist that said it all.

Her message: 'I am not a victim'.

At the same time, her estranged husband Charles was being beamed on TVs around the nation being interviewed about his infidelity with Camilla Parker-Bowles.

The iconic revenge dress that Princess Diana wore to the Serpentine Gallery in 1994 was actually created in September 1991 by Christina Stambolian

The sketch of Princess Diana's revenge dress by Christina Stambolian taken from the book Diana: A Life in Dresses by Claudia Joseph

Interviewer Jonathan Dimbleby had asked Charles if he had been 'faithful and honourable' to Diana to which he replied 'Yes,' and added: 'Until (the marriage) became irretrievably broken down, us both having tried.'

Diana's show-stopping dress was no coincidence. And besides her wedding gown it was to become her most famous frock.

The Americans christened the outfit the 'I'll Show You' dress and the 'vengeance' dress.

Yet it had sat in her wardrobe collecting dust for three years, until that balmy June 29 evening.

It had been leaked that Diana was going to wear Valentino to the event, so instead she wore the daring off-the-shoulder gown by Greek designer Christina Stambolian.

She had bought the dress after lunching with her brother Charles Spencer at her favourite restaurant, San Lorenzo, before wandering down Beauchamp Place in Knightsbridge and walking into the shop of the little-known Greek designer.

Christina Stambolian remembers Princess Diana asking for a 'special dress for a special occasion' in her store back in 1991, according to Claudia Joseph's book, Diana: A Life in Dresses.

After a few sketches, they decided on the legendary short hem and after two dressmakers took more than 60 hours to create the dress - and the rest is history.

Ms Stambolian added that she 'thrilled to see Diana wear it on that night of all nights.'

Referencing Swan Lake - one of Princess Diana's favourite plays - Ms Stambolian added: 'She chose not to play the scene like Odette, innocent in white. She was clearly angry. She played it like Odile in black. She wore bright red nail enamel, which we had never seen her do before. She was saying: Lets be wicked tonight.

The dress featured an asymmetrical hem, with a flattering sheer tail which dangled from the cinched waist.

With a flirty sweetheart neckline, Diana certainly turned heads, as she paired the dress with sheer tights, onyx coloured stilettos and her beloved pearl and sapphire choker, which was originally a brooch given to her by the Queen Mother that she fashioned into a necklace.

Photographer and author of Dicing with Di, Mark Saunders, told the documentary Diana: In Search of Happiness: 'Everyone remembers the night of the Dimbleby interview when Prince Charles admitted an affair with Camilla Parker-Bowles and look how Diana turned up at the Serpentine Gallery.

'I mean my God that was brilliant and I applaud her for it, I thought it was great. But that's what Diana does, she manipulates and she's very good at it.'

The revenge dress is made up of an asymmetrical hem, with a flattering sheer tail which dangles from the cinched waist

Princess Diana talking to the designer who created the revenge dress, Christina Stambolian (in black jacket)

Mr Dimbleby asked Charles if he had been 'faithful and honourable' to Diana to which he replied 'Yes,' and added: 'Until (the marriage) became irretrievably broken down, us both having tried'

Diana's late former stylist Anna Harvey told the 2013 documentary Princess Diana's Dresses: The Auction, that she wanted to hold her head high in what she chose to wear that evening.

Ms Harvey said: 'She wanted to look a million dollars. And she did.' The stylist also wrote in Vogue that it 'thrilled' the Princess to make an impact.

But the decision did not come easy to Diana, as according to Paul Burrell, her former butler, he chose the dress for her when she expressed thoughts about not attending the event.

He told the Channel 5 documentary, Secrets of the Royal Dressmakers: 'She said, "I can't go, I can't face the world knowing what Charles has just said. And anyway I haven't got anything to wear." I went to her wardrobe room and pulled out the Christina Stambolian dress, and showed it to her.'

He also added that she was worried that the slinky dress would not fit her anymore, having bought it three years prior. He said: 'I zipped her up and she looked a million dollars.'

According to Paul Burrell, her former butler, Diana said: 'I can't go, I can't face the world knowing what Charles has just said'

Christina Stambolian (pictured) says she remembers Princess Diana asking for a 'special dress for a special occasion' in her store back in 1991

Prince Charles, confessed to being unfaithful to Diana in an interview with Jonathan Dimbleby (left) on 29 June, 1994

For a couple of hours at least her husband's television confession was forgotten.

Elizabeth Debicki, who plays Diana on the Netflix series The Crown, stole the show with the recreation of the iconic revenge dress moment.

Sidonie Roberts, buyer and assistant costume designer for The Crown, told The Times that the look represented 'the birth of an icon for women all over the world'.

Sidonie, who oversaw the recreation of the fashion moment, said: 'We cant overestimate its impact.

'In the revenge dress not only do we have the birth of a new woman, we have the birth of an icon for women all over the world. It was a deeply empowering moment.'

It would seem Sidonie is correct, as Gen Z remain enthralled by Princess Diana.

Video content on the renowned little black dress content racks up millions of views on TikTok - proving that her 'revenge' moment still lives on to this day.

One TikTok shows a inspired Diana fan sketching up the famous dress to make herself, before showing a black ruched dress, reminiscent of the one the Princess wore, to show the progress she's made so far.

A second video shows a stylist speaking about why Diana's dress worked so well for her, speaking about how flattering the dress was for her body type. She says: 'The impact of this dress is undeniable.... It has that slight promiscuous edge which made it so famous.'

One TikTok shows a inspired Dianna fan sketching up the famous dress to make herself

She then shows a black ruched dress, reminiscent of the one the Princess wore, to show the progress she's made so far

A TikToker lip-synched The Crown in her version of the revenge dress and a similar necklace to the one the Princess wore

Another TikTok shows a woman lip-synching a scene from The Crown between Josh OConnor (who plays Charles) and Emma Corrin (who plays Diana for this season) where the two characters are arguing about Camilla.

The Diana fan stands there in her version of the off-the-shoulder revenge dress and a similar necklace to the one the Princess wore.

The global platform hosts thousands of videos of people around the world who are inspired by the moment where Diana took back control and made a statement with a fashion choice that was so bold, there was little that needed to be said.

The powerful piece of material that continues to empower women around the world now remains in a bank vault, wrapped in tissue paper and has not been seen in public for years, according to Diana: A Life in Dresses.

A replica, which Christina Stambolian made in 2010, is in the Museum of Style Icons, in Newbridge, County Kildare, Ireland.
These movies are disturbing enough to make you sick to your stomach.

Well that's according to movie fans who have been able to brave the sickening horror that's been brought to the silver screen by these shocking films.

Most recently Netflix UK viewers were left traumatized by 'terrifying' science fiction horror film Splice.

Despite its original release in 2010, the creepy science fiction horror film has left fans squirming in their seats after its debut on the streamer at the end of March.

Netflix users have proclaimed themselves traumatized after watching the streaming service's new horror film Splice

The flick focuses on a young scientific couple who attempt to introduce human DNA into their work of slicing animal genes

The flick focuses on a young scientific couple, played by Sarah Polley and Adrien Brody, who attempt to introduce human DNA into their work of slicing animal genes.

Taking to Twitter, one user said of the flick: 'This movie made me physically ill.'

Another said: Just watched Splice, never felt so disturbed in my life,' while a third said: 'This movie will forever haunt me.'

'I was traumatized by this movie', one said.

But it's not the first time viewers have been left distressed by a film, with reports 2022 slasher film Terrifier 2 made people throw up, and on a separate occasion moviegoers walked out of Titane, a film about a murderous heroine who has sex with a car, becomes pregnant and gives birth to the resulting monster.

But what about the US? Here FEMAIL breaks down some of the most terrifying movies that are on streaming services and why they caused such a stir.

Slasher film Terrifier 2 made people vomit and pass out

Terrifier 2 viewers were so disturbed by the film that people were reportedly throwing up, passing out and leaving movie theaters.

The sequel's plot sees Art The Clown return after his resurrection.

This time he fixates on terrorizing a teen girl and her little brother as he goes on a butchering spree on Halloween night.

And like its predecessor, which went viral for one particularly horrifying death scene involving somebody being sawn in half in a brutal fashion, Terrifier 2 didn't shy away from its infamous gore.

The horror film Terrifier 2 (pictured is a scene from the film) about killer clowns caused viewers to vomit and faint in theaters due to its terrifying violence

Terrifier 2's production company issued a stark warning on social media to ensure that viewers were fully prepared before seeing it

Tweets at the time of its 2022 release told of the horrors witnessed by viewer.

'My friend passed out and the theater called an ambulance. Highly recommended,' one person wrote.

'Just saw Terrifier 2. It was an amazing gory mess. The guy behind me passed out cold n crashed into my chair, another guy left because he didn't feel good, I overheard him say and walking out theatre door I heard a guy puking hard & loud in the bathroom,' another added.

Terrifier 2, which is the sequel to 2016's controversial Terrifier, follows a deranged killer clown as he butchers and maims unsuspecting victims on Halloween

The maniacal clown targets a teenage girl (pictured) and her brother in the sequel

Following its US release, one of its producers Steve Barton tweeted a warning: 'This movie contains scenes of graphic violence and brutal depictions of horror.

'Viewers who are faint of heart, prone to light-headedness or have weak stomachs are advised to take extreme caution.

'There have already been numerous instances of fainting and vomiting in theaters. For those choosing to continue, you've been warned.'

Terrifier 2 is streaming now on Amazon Prime Video.

Another hard-to-stomach film Titane which centers on a murderous heroine who has sex with a car

The 2021 French horror drama tells the tale of a woman called Alexia (played by Agathe Rousselle), a dancer at car shows who has a titanium plate in her head following a car accident.

Fixated on vehicles, the murderous heroine has sex with a car, becomes pregnant and gives birth to the resulting monster.

The flick might have won Palme d'Or - the highest prize awarded at the Cannes Film Festival - but it turned the stomachs of many who watched it at the time.

French horror film Titane (pictured) made waves after audiences were not ready for the gory thriller, with dozens walking out and falling ill at the premiere at the Sydney Film Festival

The film tells the tale of a woman called Alexia, a dancer at car shows who has a titanium plate in her head following a car accident as a child

According to audience members attending a screening at that year's Sydney Film Festival, scores left the cinema, unable to cope with what they were seeing, while as many as 20 fainted.

'15 people walked out of Titane at #SydFilmFest tonight. Missed a great, but strange, movie!' one person tweeted.

Another wrote: 'A friend fainted during TITANE last night and told me that 20 other people did as well - now that's cinema baby!'

'15 people walked out of Titane at #SydFilmFest tonight. Missed a great, but strange, movie!' someone else said.

According to audience members attending a screening at the Sydney Film Festival, scores left the cinema, unable to cope with what they were seeing, while as many as 20 fainted

Another wrote: 'A friend fainted during TITANE last night and told me that 20 other people did as well - now that's cinema baby!'

'All I have to say is that I will never be able to see Herbie the same way and I couldn't finish the movie. Had to leave because my friend almost fainted,' a Twitter user said.

One more tweeted: 'At least 13 people fainted, others walked out, during the Aussie premiere of Titane in Sydney.' As one attendee said: "The guy in front of us fainted and the chick to my right had a panic attack."'

A viewer speaking to Pedestrian TV after the screening claimed there was chaos as security struggled to deal with dozens of unwell attendees.

You can currently stream Titane on Hulu.

Austrian horror-thriller Goodnight Mommy made people faint

Not to be confused with the American remake of the same name, Austrian horror-thriller Goodnight Mommy, released in 2014, centers on twin brothers whose mother returns to their countryside home with her face heavily bandaged after apparently undergoing cosmetic surgery.

But the boys begin to suspect the woman under the bandages isn't their normally affectionate mother as she starts exhibiting strange and distant behavior.

Following its release, reports surfaced people were fainting during the film due to its confronting scenes of violence.

But its creators seemed unfazed by the reactions.

'Two people fainted,' one of the film's directors Severin Fiala told IndieWire, adding: 'That's the best compliment weve had so far.'

Austrian horror-thriller Goodnight Mommy, released in 2014, centers on twin brothers whose mother returns to their countryside home with her face heavily bandaged

But the boys begin to suspect the woman under the bandages isn't their normally affectionate mother as she starts exhibiting strange and distant behavior

Following its release, reports surfaced people were fainting during the film due to its confronting scenes of violence

Some reactions on social media users recently watched the film and agreed it was a disturbing film

One Twitter user wrote of the movie: 'This s*** really disturbed me.'

Another person added: 'Just finished watching Goodnight Mommy (2014) and during the first half I was really confused why this was considered scary and then I damn near p****ed myself multiple times in the second half.

'The first time I spent half of a movie looking through my eyes in a long time.'

The movie is currently streaming on Amazon Prime Video.

Antichrist was so offensive it was banned in France for seven years

The film drew mixed reviews when it premiered at Cannes Film Festival in 2009.

Viewers laughed, gasped, applauded and booed during and after its screening, according to a Reuters report at the time.

Directed by Danish director Lars von Trier, Antichrist explores the story of a couple whose baby son dies while they are having sex.

The wife (Charlotte Gainsborough) is inconsolable with grief and ends up being hospitalized.

Directed by Danish director Lars von Trier, Antichrist explores the story of a couple whose baby son dies while they are having sex

The wife (Charlotte Gainsborough) is inconsolable with grief and ends up being hospitalized

In an attempt to help her, her psychiatrist husband (Willem Dafoe) whisks her off to a cabin in the woods, where she has happy memories of the boy.

But her conditions worsens, and she starts to sexually abuse herself and her spouse.

An example of one graphic scene involves sexual mutilation.

At the time, The Guardian asked if Antichrist was 'a work of genius or the sickest film in the history of cinema?'

But her conditions worsens, and she starts to sexually abuse herself and her spouse

The film was deemed so offensive it was banned in France seven years after its release in 2016, Yahoo reported.

Its 16 classification, which meant anyone under that age wasn't allowed to see it, was upped to over 18s after pressure from Catholic traditionalist group Promouvoir.

This meant the film was barred from movie theaters, and could not be released on TV and DVD.

If you think you can stomach it, Antichrist is available to stream on Tubi, and YouTube with a primetime subscription.

Skinamarink is 'the scariest movie of all time'

Directed by Canadian filmmaker Kyle Edward Ball, it was dubbed the 'scariest film ever made.'

Some viewers admitted that the movie left them terrified for days, while reigniting their childhood fears of the dark.

Skinamarink follows two children, four-year-old Kevin and six-year-old Kaylee, who wake up in the middle of the night to discover that their parents are gone, and that the windows and doors in their home have vanished.

'To cope with the strange situation, the two bring pillows and blankets to the living room and settle into a quiet slumber party situation,' a description reads.

Directed by Canadian filmmaker Kyle Edward Ball, it was dubbed the 'scariest film ever made'

Some viewers admitted that the movie left them terrified for days, while reigniting their childhood fears of the dark

Skinamarink follows two children who wake up in the middle of the night to discover that their parents are gone, and that the windows and doors in their home have vanished

'They play well worn videotapes of cartoons to fill the silence of the house and distract from the frightening and inexplicable situation.

'All the while in the hopes that eventually some grown-ups will come to rescue them. However, after a while it becomes clear that something is watching over them.'

The Independent described the flick as a 'waking nightmare,' explaining that it creates an 'atmosphere of dread,' while Inverse hailed it as the 'scariest movie of all time,' describing it as 'the most sinister and downright malevolent story put to film in a long time.'

Named after the popular children's song by Sharon, Lois, and Bram, the flick, which premiered on January 13, 2023, can be streamed on the website, Shudder.

It's also available to watch on AMC+, and you can also see it with premium subscriptions on Amazon Prime Video and YouTube.

The Outwaters

Horror fans were left terrified and nauseous by 'disturbing' new film The Outwaters.

The indie flick was released in February and made a big impact on critics, winning rave reviews.

But viewers have been heavily affected and unsettled by the blockbuster, taking to Twitter to reveal their shock.

In The Outwaters, directed by Robbie Banfitch, things turn scary after a camping trip to the Mojave Desert goes very wrong.

Horror fans were left terrified and nauseous by 'disturbing' new film The Outwaters

The indie flick was released in February and made a big impact on critics, winning rave reviews

All four of the campers, who are trying to film a music video in the desert, are subject to horrifying happenings including strange animal behavior and vibrations.

One person wrote: 'I just watched @TheOutwaters... Holy f***ing s**t. I really don't have words at the moment for how scared this film made me. I'm so excited to watch it again.'

Another penned: 'Second viewing because the first time was still haunting me.'

A third person said: 'Just finished #TheOutwaters and it was very effective. Definitely wish I'd seen it in the theater.

'It was disorienting, disturbing, extremely anxiety-inducing, and an absolute journey into hell. Two thumbs up!'

Viewers were heavily affected and unsettled by the blockbuster, taking to Twitter to reveal their shock

Someone else added: 'The Outwaters is the first film to give me nightmares since childhood.

'I love when a film connects with me in a special way, knowing others could interpret it differently... any lgbtq+ w/religious backgrounds seen this? And may 2023 continue to be the year of experimental horror!'

And a separate person tweeted: 'Due to this and the Outwaters I will probably never visit the desert again.'

A different person shared: 'I'm still processing #TheOutwaters. I am not sure if it worked for me. The sounding made me so uncomfortably dizzy that I had to leave the theatre to vomit. This never happened to me before. It's more disturbing than scary if that makes any sense.'

You can check out, The Outwaters via premium subscriptions on Amazon Prime Video and YouTube.

'Extremely gruesome' Eden Lake was 'hard to watch'

Michael Fassbender and Kelly Reilly, pre Yellowstone fame, star as a couple who go off camping for the weekend in this 2008 film.

Their trip begins innocently enough with swimming, sunbathing and taking in the tranquility of the lake before its spoiled by rowdy teens.

The couple confront the youths about their behavior, but then the weekend takes a dangerous turn, which MailOnline's Chris Tookey described at the time as 'extremely gruesome.'

'Even though I have been desensitised by many hours of watching big-screen violence, I found some of it hard to watch. But for once the violence has a point, and it's treated responsibly,' he wrote under the headline, 'Eden Lake: A great movie (if you can stomach it).'

Michael Fassbender and Kelly Reilly, pre Yellowstone fame, star as a couple who go off camping for the weekend in this 2008 film

Their trip begins innocently enough with swimming, sunbathing and taking in the tranquility of the lake before it's spoiled by rowdy teens

Similarly, The Guardian's Alex Hess wrote in 2014: 'Having to watch Fassbender being trapped, hunted, tortured, tied up and burned alive is simply the most profoundly harrowing cinematic experience I've ever had to endure.'

The defunct ViewLondon reviewer Matthew Turner wrote: 'A well acted, smartly directed horror flick that's gory, disturbing, terrifying and topical.'

One Rotten Tomatoes review read: 'Being from the UK, this movie hit hard with me. It was so realistic. I never expected the movie to get as gritty or as gory as it ended up but it was a massive surprise. I felt it had to go extreme to get its point across.

'The bigger message in this film was the influence parents have on their children. A statement that is so important in modern society. This has been one of the best horror movies of the 21st century.'

Eden Lake is streaming on Amazon Prime Video.
The differences include the cleanliness of streets and strict mask wearing rules

A Team USA volleyball star who lives and plays for a club in Asia has revealed some of the most stark cultural differences she has experienced.

Sarah Wilhite, originally from Eden Prairie, Minnesota, started playing for Japan's NEC Red Rockets in 2020.

But the 27-year-old, who is 6ft 2in, has recently taken to TikTok to share insight into her life abroad.

The revelations include the surprising cleanliness of streets, strict mask wearing rules and the embarrassment she has faced while getting to grips with the toilets.

Team USA volleyball star Sarah Wilhite, who lives and plays for a club in Asia, has revealed some of the most stark cultural differences she has experienced

The 27-year-old athlete, who is 6ft 2in, has recently taken to TikTok to share insight into her life abroad

In one clip, Sarah speaks to camera as she walks through the quiet streets of downtown Tokyo.

She begins: 'There are a couple of things about Japan that just really, really blow my mind.

'One is how clean it is. There are absolutely no trash cans on the streets yet I will never see a single piece of trash anywhere.'

Sarah pans the camera around to show a litter-free sidewalk before continuing on with her list of observations.

The athlete, who began playing youth club volleyball in 2005, adds: 'Another thing is, I was just on the train and it's common to see a five- or six-year-old just on the train by themselves.

'I guess it's pretty common for kids that age to just walk home from school by themselves and take the train if they need to.'

Concluding, Sarah stated that whether indoors or outdoors 'everybody has a mask on' before proudly holding hers up to the camera.

But these were not the only things that she has been grappling with since moving to Japan.

The volleyballer, originally from Eden Prairie, Minnesota, started playing for Japan's NEC Red Rockets in 2020

Her revelations include the surprising cleanliness of streets, strict mask wearing rules and the embarrassment she has faced while getting to grips with the toilets

In another recent clip, she got candid about her attempts to get to grips with the toilets at a cafe in Shibuya, Tokyo.

Sarah, who currently has more than 42,000 followers on Instagram, said: 'Everything was great - the food the great, the coffee was great.

'I had to go to the bathroom before I left.

'Fun fact about Japan is every toilet is different and every toilet is so complex, there's always a bidet, a noise machine maker, a heated seat - just a bajillion buttons that you have to deal with.'

Continuing with her story, she continued: 'So I take care of my business - just had to pee - and I get up and panic because I can't find the flush button.

Sarah has built up a loyal legion of fans and currently boasts more than 42,000 followers on Instagram

Sarah (right) began playing youth club volleyball in 2005 and has progressed through the ranks to become a member of Team USA

In another recent clip, she got candid about her attempts to get to grips with the toilets at a cafe in Shibuya, Tokyo, which left her 'crying and laughing'

'Then I proceed to accidentally press the bidet button and I'm already up off the toilet so the bidet proceeds to spray me in the face and then all the way down my sweatshirt.

'I panic, try to touch the button again and then it goes away...

'Two seconds later it starts spraying again on the backside because I had already [turned and] started washing my hands.

'So I am literally covered in bidet water on the front of my sweatshirt and the back of my sweatshirt and I still can't find the flush button.

'The bidet didn't just spray me it sprayed the mirror, the floor, the sink - everything in the bathroom.'

She said she was crying and laughing before quickly leaving the cafe, adding she is 'never going back.'
The former monarch was escorted out of the club by two of his bodyguards

Spain's disgraced former King Juan Carlos was pictured leaving an exclusive private member's club in London last night ahead of his reported 'private lunch with King Charles'.

The controversial royal, 85, who has been at the centre of corruption investigations in his homeland and a long-running and ongoing legal battle with his former lover, had dinner with a group of friends at Oswald's in central London last night.

Oswald's is the most exclusive of London's private members' clubs, with Prince William, Queen Camilla and Boris Johnson and his wife Carrie among those who frequent the venue.

At 11pm, the father-of-three - who abdicated the throne in 2014 - was seen being escorted out of the private club by two bodyguards.

After climbing into a black 4x4, the former monarch, dressed in a navy suit and pink tie, happily waved for the cameras from the tan leather passenger seat.

The former monarch, 85, was pictured waving to the cameras from his 4x4 as he left the club last night

Earlier this month, leading Spanish newspaper El Mundo reported that Juan Carlos has flown to London from his home in Abu Dhabi.

During his stopover in the capital, the disgraced royal will allegedly have a 'private' lunch with King Charles.

MailOnline has contacted Buckingham Palace for comment.

Juan Carlos joined his son, Spain's current King Felipe VI, and other members of its royal family, including Felipe's former TV news journalist's wife Letizia Ortiz, at Queen Elizabeth II's funeral last September.

The royal was reportedly asked not to attend the state funeral by Spanish prime minister Pedro Sanchez as they wanted his son King Felipe to 'represent the nation'.

The Spanish government described his trip at the time as 'private', insisting Juan Carlos' son and daughter-in-law were the only royal representatives there in an official capacity.

After leaving London, Juan Carlos is also expected to make only his second visit to Spain since his shock departure in August 2020.

The ex-King is reported to be flying into the Galician resort of Sanxenxo, one of the places he visited in his first return to his homeland in May last year following his move to Abu Dhabi nearly three years ago, to take part in a regatta.

Juan Carlos, 85, will reportedly meet King Charles for a 'private' lunch during his visit to London, according to Spain's national media

King Charles pictured with Juan Carlos and his wife Sofia at the funeral for the late Romanian King Michael in Bucharest in 2017

El Mundo says Juan Carlos was initially planning to make a new trip to Spain in mid-May but decided to bring his plans forward to next week because it was an 'inadequate date' so close to local and regional elections on May 28.

The former king, who is still married to his wife Sofia despite his numerous extra-marital affairs, has been accused of making a pass at Princess Diana when she was just 25 during a holiday she and the then-Prince Charles spent in Majorca in 1986.

Spanish royal expert Pilar Eyre made the claim in a 2012 book.

Diana herself denied anything untoward had happened but admitted that while the libidinous former king was 'charming' he could be a 'little too attentive.'

A 2017 book by Spanish society writer Amadeo Martinez Ingles dubbed Juan Carlos a sex addict and claimed he bedded almost 5,000 women.

Apart from his extramarital dalliances, said to have resulted in secret love children, the former Spanish king has found himself at the centre of corruption investigations and been accused of harassment by former lover Corinna zu Wittgenstein-Sayn in a case heard by London's Court of Appeal last year.

Juan Carlos was dressed in a navy suit and pink tie for his evening out at the private member's club

Prince William, Queen Camilla and Boris Johnson and his wife Carrie are also members of Oswald's in central London

Pictured: Juan Carlos' guests followed him out of the private member's cub in central London last night

King Juan Carlos I, a cousin of Queen Elizabeth II, was invited to the late monarch's funeral by Buckingham Palace. He is now set to meet King Charles III ahead of May's coronation

The disgraced former King Juan Carlos of Spain arrived at Westminster Abbey for the Queen's funeral last year (pictured) despite a row over his attendance with the Spanish government

Apart from his extramarital dalliances, said to have resulted in secret love children, the former Spanish king has found himself at the centre of corruption investigations and been accused of harassment by former lover Corinna zu Wittgenstein-Sayn (pictured in London in 2014) in a case heard by London's Court of Appeal last year

UK Court of Appeal judges ruled in December Juan Carlos, who reigned as King of Spain from 1975 to 2014 when he abdicated in favour of his son, had immunity for the period before he abdicated.

Her claim, launched in London's High Court, will be heard at a trial expected to be later this year.

Their relationship remained a secret until 2012 when it emerged they had been on safari together to Botswana at the height of Spain's economic crisis.

The trip came to light after the former monarch broke his hip in a fall and he had to be flown back to Madrid for surgery.

Juan Carlos left Spain for a luxury hotel in Abu Dhabi after Swiss prosecutors opened an investigation into bank accounts he was accused of having in tax havens.

Spain launched its own investigations based in part on information shared by Switzerland including one about cash the former king allegedly received as part of his involvement in a high-speed Saudi Arabia rail contract.

The scandals he was caught up in left his reputation in tatters, although the investigations into him for alleged corruption and tax fraud were archived after he deactivated the possibility of legal action by paying off his tax debts.

Earlier this year it was reported businesswoman Corinna zu Wittgenstein-Sayn, 57, was selling her stately home in Shropshire after telling friends she fears for her safety.

Juan Carlos - who is a great-great-grandchild of Britain's Queen Victoria - is now a tax resident in the United Arab Emirates.
Love it or hate it, Marmite is a British staple, and we eat it by the bucket load - or rather the 25million jars-a-year-load.

Whether you have it on toast, in a cheese sandwich or mixed into stews, if youre a fan there are plenty of dishes you can add it to in order to get your fix.

But have you ever considered how its made? A resurfaced video showing the process used to make the spread has now left people seriously divided.

In Channel 4's Food Unwrapped, presenter Kate Quilton, 39, travelled to a factory to see how Marmite and other yeast extracts were made.

Located in Burton-on-Trent, Staffordshire, the business has been producing the black stuff since 1902, and Kate went behind the scenes to chat to the official Marmite Makers.

Sinjin Skelton, a quality specialist at the factory, explained how the yeast extract was created.

Ever wondered how Marmite is made? A documentary revealing the inner workings of the yeast extract spread has left some fans feeling grossed out and declaring they can never eat it again

He said: When breweries make beer, they take a sugary solution and they'll add yeast to it, and the yeast will convert the sugar into alcohol.

Explaining the science behind it, Kate revealed that as the yeast cells multiply they produce alcohol, and as a result, breweries end up with as much as seven times more yeast than they started with.

It is then sold to factories to make yeast extract and is pumped into large vats.

The giant tubs, or coppers as they are officially called, are heated to 95C which kills the live yeast and breaks down their cell walls.

What's happening there is we adjust the temperature so the yeast starts to decay, says Sinjin.

Kate explains that the yeasty soup is then separated into two liquids using a centrifuge, leaving the broken down cell walls and the cell contents.

After realising that Marmite is actually the consituents of an alcohol by-product, many viewers were horrified.

Channel 4's Kate Quilton went behind the scenes at a factory that has been making Marmite for more than 100 years to find out exactly what goes into the famous spread

Viewers of the show had mixed reactions after finding out exactly what went into Marmite and learning how it was made

'Oh gosh I can't eat this anymore. but my childhood tho ,' wrote one former fan.

Marmite is people! It's people!! exclaimed a second person, exaggerating wildly.

A third viewer wrote: Wasn't expecting his answer (sort of). I Expected him to say that but come back and say no just kidding or something.

Another added: So basically it's dehydrated yeast guts mixed with vegetable stock.

Someone else noted: Toast, Marmite and Beer. Yeasty way to start the day.

Sinjin revealed that Marmite includes six secret ingredients. Listing others, Kate said: According to the label, it contains barley, salt, vegetable juice concentrate and celery - but whatever it is, it's blended with the yeast extract and fills 25million jars a year.
The Queen wanted Prince Andrew to fight in the Falklands War because she believed it was his duty to do so while a member of the British Armed Forces - but his brother Charles 'wasn't allowed', a new docuseries has revealed.

Speaking in ITVX's The Real Crown: Inside the House of Windsor, General Sir Mike Jackson, former head of the British Army, discusses how Elizabeth II was keen for the Duke of York, now 63, to take part in the South Atlantic conflict in 1982.

Sir Mike, then a lieutenant colonel involved in defence intelligence during the Falklands campaign, said in the third episode: 'The Queen would take the view that a member of her family who had joined the armed forces... they must do their duty.'

However following Andrew's victorious return after the ten-week conflict, King Charles, then the Prince of Wales, was 'again left slightly in the shadows', according to Lady Anne Glenconner, the late Princess Margaret's lady-in-waiting.

She tells the documentary that Charles 'was not allowed to go to war because it would've been too dangerous' - a decision which echos the one made by Her late Majesty regarding Princes Harry and William.

The Queen wanted Prince Andrew to fight in the Falklands War because she believed it was his duty to do so while a member of the British Armed Forces - but his brother Charles 'wasn't allowed', a new docuseries has revealed. Pictured, Charles and Andrew in 2012

The Queen wanted both William and Harry to fight the Taliban in Afghanistan when war broke out in 2001, before deciding it was too risky to send the future heir to the throne, Sir Mike revealed in a later episode of the docuseries.

The decision over whether the princes should take part in the conflict was discussed at a meeting between the late Elizabeth II and Sir Mike, then head of the British Army.

In the upcoming documentary, airing on April 20, Sir Mike breaches protocol by revealing details of his private audience with the Queen.

He said: 'What goes on in those audiences and who says what to whom remains for the two people involved, and I will break the rule about not divulging what goes on on this one occasion.

'She was very clear. She said, "My grandsons have taken my shilling, therefore they must do their duty". And that was that. But it was decided that William as heir to the heir, the risk is too great. But for his younger brother, the risk was acceptable.'

Harry served in the Army for ten years, rising to the rank of Captain and undertaking two operational tours of duty in Afghanistan, in 2007-8 and 2012-13.

The documentary shows that William was stopped from joining the war, despite wanting to, due to his position as future King.

Similarly, the Queen let her second eldest son, Andrew, take part in active service in a war, with Sir Mike explaining: 'A member of the Royal Family killed in military action will have considerable politic knock-ons.

Queen Elizabeth ll gives Prince Andrew a rose which he promptly puts in his mouth after they have disembarked from HMS Invincible following his return from the Falklands War on September 17, 1982 in Portsmouth

'But the Queen would take the view that a member of her family who had joined the Armed Forces, had undertaken the same contract as others sailors, soldiers and airmen and that they must do their duty.'

Andrew joined the Royal Navy in 1979 and served for 22 years, including the Falklands War in 1982, in which he served aboard HMS Invincible as a Sea King helicopter pilot.

Charles, who has not served in an active war, was left 'slightly in the shadows' after his younger brother's success in the Falklands, according to Lady Anne Glenconner.

She said: 'It must be very irritating for Charles, who'd been in the Navy, not allowed to go to war because it would've been too dangerous.

'There's Prince Andrew, had an amazing war, came back a hero with a rose between his teeth, looking frightfully handsome, everybody thought how wonderful and again poor Charles, slightly in the shadows.'

According to royal biographer Gyles Brandreth, Charles regrets not being tested in action, reported The Express.

In his book Charles and Camilla: Portrait of a Love Affair (2005), Mr Brandreth wrote: He [Charles] did well. His men liked him and, by every account, respected his modesty, seriousness and determination.

A few years later, at the time of the Falklands conflict in 1982, Charles expressed regret that during his own service career he had not been tested in action as his younger brother, Andrew, had been while serving with the Fleet Air Arm in the South Atlantic.

Sir Mike, then a lieutenant colonel involved in defence intelligence during the Falklands campaign, said in the third episode: 'The Queen(pictured with Charles in December 2022_ would take the view that a member of her family who had joined the armed forces... they must do their duty.'

Charles began his military service on the guided-missile destroyer HMS Norfolk in 1971.

He then served on two frigates: HMS Minerva from 1972 to 1974 and HMS Jupiter in 1974. His service ended in 1976, but he continued to pilot occasionally.

He ultimately gave up flying after he crashed a 10million BAE 146 aircraft at Islay in Inner Hebrides in 1994.

Charles grounded himself from flying after the accident, which St James's Palace said at the time was a 'personal decision the Prince took on his own'.

Elsewhere, the documentary reveals that the Queen had put a lot of thought into whether Prince William could take part in the war in Afghanistan as she had detailed information about the risks faced by UK armed personnel in the conflict.

Sir John Scarlett, at the time head of MI6, said: 'Of course she has complete clearance to everything. She has complete access to an exceptional amount of info and insight for longer than anyone else. William was very keen to go.'

He added: 'She's very, very discreet, completely reliable and completely on top of the detail. I remember thinking at the time, "Wow, Her Majesty knows more about this than we do".'

The Queen wanted both William and Harry (pictured in July 2021) to fight the Taliban in Afghanistan when war broke out in 2001, before deciding it was too risky to send the future heir to the throne, Sir Mike revealed in a later episode of the docuseries

William completed a training course at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst spanning 44 weeks after graduating from university. He was commissioned as an Army officer in December 2006.

He joined the Household Cavalry (Blues and Royals) until 2008 and was later attached to the Royal Air Force and Navy.

Mark Cann, director of the British Forces Foundation, said in the series: 'William was very keen to go. Unequivocally. But it was complex, and some very great minds and experienced people took a view on it.

'I think it was really tricky. Anybody who's in the military who hasn't actually been on operation feels a sense of disappointment.

'And I think especially that was the one (war) at the time, you've got everyone around you at the time who's been involved in it. So there is a sense of disappointment.'

The fullThe Real Crown: Inside The House Of Windsor series is available on Thursday 20 April on ITVX
The former Archbishop of Canterbury who was 'pitched in to help' with King Charles and Princess Diana's marriage has suggested they were never going to be 'successful' in a new royal docuseries.

George Carey, who was the most senior cleric from 1991 to 2002, tells ITVX's The Real Crown: Inside the House of Windsor how he was called in to try and rescue the couple's turbulent relationship.

He says: 'I found myself as the Archbishop of Canterbury pitched in to this. I remember one meeting at Number 10 Downing Street with [former Prime Minister] John Major and some members of the Cabinet, wrestling with what we could do to help.'

'The role I took was to try and meet up,' adds Lord Carey, who claims the 'dynamic between' Charles and Diana, then the Prince and Princess of Wales, 'was not going to be successful'.

He continues: 'Charles deep thinking, a slower personality, reflective. Diana, dynamic, vibrant, less driven, it wasn't going to work.'

The former Archbishop of Canterbury who was 'pitched in to help' with King Charles and Princess Diana's (pictured in 1992 in South Korea) marriage has suggested they were never going to be 'successful' in a new royal docuseries

For centuries, Archbishops of Canterbury have been entrusted with helping members of the Royal Family tackle some of the trickiest issues of the day.

Perhaps most famously, Henry VIII and Thomas Cranmer wrestled with the King's demand to divorce Anne Boleyn. Cranmer succeeded.

More recently, his modern-day successor, Justin Welby, was asked by King Charles to broker a deal to allow Prince Harry to attend his Coronation  but met resistance from Prince William, The Mail on Sunday revealed.

Charles wanted Mr Welby to strike an agreement with his warring sons that would allow Harry and his wife Meghan to attend the Westminster Abbey ceremony in May, senior sources close to Lambeth Palace say.

It was confirmed last week that Prince Harry will attend the Coronation alone, while his wife Meghan Markle, 41, stays in California with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, one.

The Coronation, which is just three weeks away, will see both King Charles III and Queen Camilla crowned in front of 2,000 people in Westminster Abbey.

George Carey (pictured), who was the most senior cleric from 1991 to 2002, tells ITVX's The Real Crown: Inside the House of Windsor how he was called in to try and rescue the couple's turbulent relationship

Elsewhere in the ITVX programme, the Queen is said to have wanted Prince Andrew to fight in the Falklands War because she believed it was his duty to do so while a member of the British Armed Forces - but his brother Charles 'wasn't allowed'.

Speaking in the series, General Sir Mike Jackson, former head of the British Army, discusses how Elizabeth II was keen for the Duke of York, now 63, to take part in the South Atlantic conflict in 1982.

Sir Mike, then a lieutenant colonel involved in defence intelligence during the Falklands campaign, said in the third episode: 'The Queen would take the view that a member of her family who had joined the armed forces... they must do their duty.'

However following Andrew's victorious return after the ten-week conflict, King Charles, then the Prince of Wales, was 'again left slightly in the shadows', according to Lady Anne Glenconner, the late Princess Margaret's lady-in-waiting.

She tells the documentary that Charles 'was not allowed to go to war because it would've been too dangerous' - a decision which echos the one made by Her late Majesty regarding Princes Harry and William.

The Queen wanted both William and Harry to fight the Taliban in Afghanistan when war broke out in 2001, before deciding it was too risky to send the future heir to the throne, Sir Mike revealed in a later episode of the docuseries.

Elsewhere in the ITVX programme, the Queen is said to have wanted Prince Andrew to fight in the Falklands War because she believed it was his duty to do so while a member of the British Armed Forces - but his brother Charles 'wasn't allowed', a new docuseries has revealed. Pictured, Charles and Andrew in 2012

The decision over whether the princes should take part in the conflict was discussed at a meeting between the late Elizabeth II and Sir Mike, then head of the British Army.

In the upcoming documentary, airing on April 20, Sir Mike breaches protocol by revealing details of his private audience with the Queen.

He said: 'What goes on in those audiences and who says what to whom remains for the two people involved, and I will break the rule about not divulging what goes on on this one occasion.

'She was very clear. She said, "My grandsons have taken my shilling, therefore they must do their duty". And that was that. But it was decided that William as heir to the heir, the risk is too great. But for his younger brother, the risk was acceptable.'

Harry served in the Army for ten years, rising to the rank of Captain and undertaking two operational tours of duty in Afghanistan, in 2007-8 and 2012-13.

The documentary shows that William was stopped from joining the war, despite wanting to, due to his position as future King.

Similarly, the Queen let her second eldest son, Andrew, take part in active service in a war, with Sir Mike explaining: 'A member of the Royal Family killed in military action will have considerable politic knock-ons.

Queen Elizabeth ll gives Prince Andrew a rose which he promptly puts in his mouth after they have disembarked from HMS Invincible following his return from the Falklands War on September 17, 1982 in Portsmouth

'But the Queen would take the view that a member of her family who had joined the Armed Forces, had undertaken the same contract as others sailors, soldiers and airmen and that they must do their duty.'

Andrew joined the Royal Navy in 1979 and served for 22 years, including the Falklands War in 1982, in which he served aboard HMS Invincible as a Sea King helicopter pilot.

Charles, who has not served in an active war, was left 'slightly in the shadows' after his younger brother's success in the Falklands, according to Lady Anne Glenconner.

She said: 'It must be very irritating for Charles, who'd been in the Navy, not allowed to go to war because it would've been too dangerous.

'There's Prince Andrew, had an amazing war, came back a hero with a rose between his teeth, looking frightfully handsome, everybody thought how wonderful and again poor Charles, slightly in the shadows.'

According to royal biographer Gyles Brandreth, Charles regrets not being tested in action, reported The Express.

In his book Charles and Camilla: Portrait of a Love Affair (2005), Mr Brandreth wrote: He [Charles] did well. His men liked him and, by every account, respected his modesty, seriousness and determination.

A few years later, at the time of the Falklands conflict in 1982, Charles expressed regret that during his own service career he had not been tested in action as his younger brother, Andrew, had been while serving with the Fleet Air Arm in the South Atlantic.

Charles began his military service on the guided-missile destroyer HMS Norfolk in 1971.

He then served on two frigates: HMS Minerva from 1972 to 1974 and HMS Jupiter in 1974. His service ended in 1976, but he continued to pilot occasionally.

He ultimately gave up flying after he crashed a 10million BAE 146 aircraft at Islay in Inner Hebrides in 1994.

Charles grounded himself from flying after the accident, which St James's Palace said at the time was a 'personal decision the Prince took on his own'.

The full The Real Crown: Inside The House Of Windsor series is available on Thursday 20 April on ITVX
A couple who made headlines during the pandemic after being trapped on their third date for two and a half months in Costa Rica after travel restrictions were imposed, lift the lid on their unconventional romance in a new Netflix documentary.

New Yorkers Matt Robertson and Khani Le, now aged 34 and 32 respectively, met on Hinge in February 2020 and, after having a first date at an Indian restaurant and a second at an axe throwing venue, they decided to throw caution to the wind and jet off on a quick break.

However, a long weekend in paradise turned into a hellish scenario as they duo found their flights continuously canceled and their freedom restricted with lockdowns in place.

Thanks to Matt's love of vlogging, the entirety of their intense Costa Rican romance was recorded for posterity, with the candid footage played back in a documentary titled Longest Third Date. A pregnancy scare, car accident and bug infestation are revealed as some of the tougher parts of their trip.

New Yorkers Matt Robertson and Khani Le met on Hinge in February 2020 A month later, on their third date, they decided to go to Costa Rica

Thanks to Matt's love of vlogging, the entirety of their intense Costa Rican romance was recorded for posterity, with the candid footage featured in Netflix's Longest Third Date

The couple explain that by the fourth day of their vacation, things 'started to get real' as Covid-19 took hold around the world and a travel ban came into play

At one point, their hire car got stuck in a lagoon and locals had to help them pull it out

After having a first date at an Indian restaurant and a second at an axe throwing venue, they decided to throw caution to the wind and jet off on a quick break

The couple explain that by the fourth day of their vacation, things 'started to get real' as Covid-19 took hold around the world and a travel ban came into play.

They soon learned that they would not be able to get home on their original flight.

'We're running out of clothes to wear, we're running out of new things to talk about,' Matt recalls in the film.

While they didn't find chemistry at first, Matt said as time went on it was 'definitely intensifying' and 'there's some passion there.'

Khani, who was adamant about not falling into a relationship again, also agreed that sparks started to fly, noting that 'when you're stuck together there's not much else to do than drink and f***.'

After their hotel shut down, the couple moved into a self-catering Airbnb and said it was a surreal experience suddenly living together.

Luckily Khani, a publicist, had work to keep her busy but she said she refrained from telling her company where she was.

Meanwhile, Matt came up with 'mini dates' for their free time, with some of their activities including tango dancing and yoga classes.

Commenting on what it was like being denied access to friends and family, Khani said: 'Being so far away, I felt a little helpless knowing I couldn't fly home if I needed to.'

'We're running out of clothes to wear, we're running out of new things to talk about,' Matt recalls in the film

While they didn't find chemistry at first, Matt said as time went on it was 'definitely intensifying' and 'there's some passion there'

Meanwhile, Matt came up with 'mini dates' for their free time, with some of their activities including tango dancing and yoga classes

Matt said on the subject: 'We just felt really far away from it all watching this movie transpire, only with each other.'

With their relationship getting fast-tracked, both parties said at times it was tough.

In one clip Matt can be seen going for a run to escape the apartment. He says while jogging with his GoPro: 'It can get a little taxing, not ready for marriage any time soon that's for sure. It's not even like a normal relationship... locked up, quarantined, abroad.'

Khani also reveals that she was worried that she was 'going back to old patterns,' by living with a guy and she was determined not to 'lose myself as a person.'

'It's just not something I wanted at all,' she said of destructive relationships she had experienced in the past.

When you're stuck together there's not much else to do than drink and f***

While they found each other difficult to deal with at times as they learned about their habits and behaviors, there were other things that heightened the tension.

At one point Khani ran out of birth control and had to get contraceptive from a local pharmacy, which she had been warned might be offering counterfeit medicines.

Continuing on the medical theme, she then found her body covered in bug bites following an infestation in their apartment, with her skin swollen and sore.

Topping things off, when the couple decided to go on a roadtrip following an easing of restrictions, their hire car got stuck in a lagoon.

Footage shows the vehicle slowly subsiding in the mud with a panicked Khani clambering out of the window to escape.

Luckily, another car came by and people from a neighboring village came out to help them and get the mud-caked vehicle to a local garage.

While they had tough times being cooped up together, the New Yorkers said they had more highs than lows.

While they had tough times being cooped up together, the New Yorkers said they had more highs than lows

Summing up their multi-week third date, she concludes: 'It was really bitter sweet, it was more than a vacation'

Khani moved into Matts apartment in Hoboken, New Jersey, one month after they returned home

Matt said of their situation: 'It was a great opportunity to get to know Khani and discover how amazing she is... Genuine, caring, thoughtful, I mean the total package.'

Echoing his sentiments, Khani mused: 'Being with Matt, he was someone who would take charge of plans - I was really starting to notice that quality in him.'

For the duration of their trip, the couple didn't discuss if they were boyfriend and girlfriend and when they found out they could finally go home on a Government-sponsored flight after 79 days, Khani said she wasn't sure if they would break up when they got back to reality.

Another stress for Khani was the possibility of being pregnant, but when the couple made it to the Costa Rican capital of San Jose, to her relief, her period started.

While both parties were unsure where they stood with each other on the romantic front, it's revealed in the documentary that they ended up moving in with each other a month after getting back.

It was really bitter sweet, it was more than a vacation. It was something I would never forget

They also traveled across the country to meet each others families.

While Matt's family knew where he was all along and who he was with, Khani had kept her antics a secret from her overly-protective father.

However, when she finally came to tell her dad everything, she said she didn't know why she hadn't told him before as his reaction was less extreme than she thought it would be.

This is yet another moment captured in the documentary.

Towards the end of the film, Matt can be seen being welcomed by Khani's family and vice versa.

Another heartwarming moment sees the couple introduce their French bulldog Banks which they got in June 2021 to celebrate their one-year anniversary.

The couple's story first came to light after Matt revealed their plight in an Instagram post, calling their quarantine abroad, 'crazy times' in a hashtag.

Their story quickly went viral with dozens of news outlets requesting interviews.

While Khani found the media attention difficult to deal with at first, it is something she has got used to and now Matt's constant vlogging doesn't bother her.

Summing up their multi-week third date, she concludes: 'It was really bitter sweet, it was more than a vacation.

'It was something I would never forget... I wasn't ready to go home and pretend that all of that didn't just happen.'

Longest Third Date is now available to watch via Netflix
It's the most contested will in the fashion world, and now a new twist has emerged in the saga over Karl Lagerfeld's estate, with Princess Caroline of Monaco newly named as one of the beneficiaries.

Caroline, 66, the sister of Prince Albert, 65, has enjoyed a life-long relationship with French design house Chanel and was a dear friend of its late creative director.

And according to a report by French magazine Le Point, Grace Kelly's eldest daughter has been named as one of the people set to receive an inheritance from the designer, affectionately nicknamed the Kaiser.

The issue of Lagerfeld's inheritance has remained up in the air since the designer's death from pancreatic cancer in Paris in 2019, and has now hit a legal standstill.

Seven names have emerged alongside Caroline's, including Lagerfeld's muse and friend Baptiste Giabiconi, 33, his right hand man and chauffeur Sebastien Jondeau, several of his Chanel collaborators, and his former governess, Francoise Cacote, who has been looking after his cat Choupette since his death.

Caroline of Hanover, 66, the sister of Prince Albert, 65, has enjoyed a life-long romance with Chanel and was a dear friend of its late creative director Karl Lagerfeld (pictured in 2013)

According to Le Point, Caroline of Hanover is in line to inherit Lagerfeld's furniture from his Parisian apartment, alongside three other friends of the designer.

The Kaiser's will reportedly stipulates that Caroline can take her pick out of the designer's impressive collection of furnishings.

The royal and designer struck a friendship from their very first meeting in Paris in the 1970s.

Speaking to the French-speaking magazine Point de Vue after Lagerfeld's death in 2019, the royal spoke of their 45 years of friendship.

She revealed how they met at a photoshoot for American Vogue which took place at Lagerfeld's Saint-Sulpice apartment in Paris.

'We ended up there with Chris von Wangenheim, wonderful fashion photographer. I wore Chloe clothes that Karl drew. It was a really happy atmosphere, I was very shy at that age,' she recalled.

From then on, Lagerfeld dressed the royal beauty for several occasions, including both royal engagements and more casual outings, and she became a regular front row attendee at his shows throughout the years.

In the same interview, Caroline talked of how she became Lagerfeld's number one fan, and how the designer became involved with the Rose Ball, an annual event which is held in Monaco by the princely family to mark the onset of Spring.

She described the designer's death as a 'family mourning', which hit her children, Charlotte Casiraghi, Andrea Casiraghi, Pierre Casiraghi and Princess Alexandra of Hanover particularly hard, because they knew Lagerfeld 'from birth.'

'He was home the day before I gave birth to Andrea, he took a picture of me on the stairs. He was there when they were born,' she said.

Charlotte, 36, has followed in the footsteps of her fashionable mother, becoming an ambassador for Chanel in 2020, and she has worked with the fashion house on several projects over the years.

Like her mother, Charlotte is a regular attendee at Fashion Week, and she has also filmed videos and programmes for Chanel campaigns, social media clips and more.

Virginie Viard, who now heads the French fashion house, described Casiraghi as someone who 'embodies the Chanel allure, all while remaining true to her own world.'

However, it might be a long while before Caroline and the other beneficiaries of Lagerfeld's will might be able to touch any of what the designer left them.

The designer and the Monaco princess at the Rose Ball in Monaco, where Caroline wore Chanel, in 2017

Caroline's daughter Charlotte Casiraghi, left, has also grown to become a Chanel fan, and is a brand ambassador for the fashion house. Pictured with Karl and her mother in 2015

As of 2023, none of the people listed on the will have been able to claim their due, in part because of debts the designer had acquired during his lifetime, and because his accountant, Lucien Frydlender, shut up shop in 2019 and refused to take the claimants' calls.

On top of this, Le Point has revealed that several of the designers' assets, including his properties portfolio, were registered in several countries - include the US, Monaco, Liechtenstein and France, making it even harder to divide his estate between his heirs.

For instance, Lagerfeld had a company registered in Delaware, which included two real estate companies holding properties for the designer, while a British company looks after SARL Studio 7 L, which holds the exploration rights for the designer's catalogue and his Parisian photography studio.

And different companies can co-own some of the assets of the late designer, which has complicated the matter of who would inherit what.

Also named in the will are British creative consultant Amanda Harlech, a long-time collaborator of Lagerfeld, as well as Virginie Viard, who succeeded him as Chanel's creative director and Sandy Brant, the partner of the late journalist Ingrid Sischy.

Meanwhile, Lagerfeld's muse, Baptiste Giabiconi, who is expecting his first child later this year, is thought to be set to inherit 30 per cent of the designer's assets.

And his beloved Birman cat Choupette, who has secured an invite to next month's Met Gala which will honour Lagerfeld's career, should inherit 1.5million euros.

Others listed include the model Brad Kroenig and his son Hudson, 12, who was Lagerfeld's godson and made his fashion debut on the Chanel runway.

Sebastien Jondeau, the designer's chauffeur, who has described himself as Lagerfeld's 'spiritual heir,' also made the cut.

Eric Pfrunder, who was Chanel's artistic director from 1983 to 2021 and died in 2022, was meant to receive Lagerfeld's photography collections, excluding the snaps he took from Baptiste Giabiconi and Sebastien Jondeau.
Sarah Ferguson has been snapped looking animated while promoting her books in London following claims she has not been invited to King Charles' upcoming Coronation due to 'previous conduct'.

The Duchess of York attended the London Book Fair in Olympia today, where she discussed her various works of fiction including her novels and children's books.

And the 63-year-old royal appeared lively as she opened up about her writing during a meet and greet session at the literary event.

She opted for a simple but stylish look, donning a black belted blazer with a mandarin collar over a red and black maxi skirt.

Sarah completed the ensemble with a pair of heeled black suede knee high boots, and an elegant half-up, half-down hair style and classic make-up look.

Sarah Ferguson (pictured) looked animated as she attended the London Book Fair in Olympia today

The royal has recently made a number of appearances while promoting her most recent novel A Most Intriguing Lady.

During one interview, she revealed she was pleased that her writing career had taken off, giving her another 'claim to fame' aside marrying into the royal family.

In an interview with OK! magazine, the royal said her new career ensured that marrying into the Firm was no longer her 'only claim to fame'.

She said: 'I feel very proud to have embarked on a new career in my sixties.

'Not many people get that opportunity. Now having married into the royal family isnt my only claim to fame, I'm an author who has made the Sunday Times Bestsellers List. It feels like this is my time. It is very liberating.'

Sarah's appearance at today's book fair follows recent reports that the royal will not be attending King Charles' Coronation next month.

It was reported last week that the Duchess of York is not expected to attend the event next month  despite the fact Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie are set to be there.

And experts claimed King Charles decided to not invite Sarah to the historic event because she is an 'embarrassment' and no longer a member of the Royal Family.

The 63-year-old royal donned a chic black belted blazer and red and black maxi skirt for her appearance today

According to the Duchess (pictured promoting her work in London today), she feels 'very proud' to have embarked on a new career in her sixties

Royal commentator Tom Bower previously told MailOnline that Sarah had excluded herself because of her earlier 'conduct'.

He added that her presence would 'provoke critical comment which Charles doesn't need'.

And expert Richard Fitzwilliams praised the 'extremely wise' decision from the King because she has been an 'embarrassment to the Royal Family for many years'.

But the apparent decision has surprised some royal watchers  with Meghan's friend Omid Scobie tweeting: 'If true, this feels kinda cruel, no?'

Speaking about the absence of Sarah, Mr Bower said she will be left out 'because she is not a member of the Royal Family'.

'Her time': The creation of a new career in her sixties has been described as 'liberating' by the royal, who says this feels like her time

Stylish: the royal looked chic as she appeared in London today (pictured), opting for a belted black blazer

Her most recent book is the Sunday Times' bestselling historical novel A Most Intriguing Lady (Sarah is pictured holding the novel in London today)

He added that she had excluded herself 'by her past conduct', saying: 'Her presence would provoke critical comment which Charles doesn't need.'

Among Sarah's most embarrassing moments was when photographs were published showing her having her toes sucked by her financial adviser John Bryan at her holiday villa in St Tropez.

The pair were also seen kissing, embracing and frolicking in the pool.

She was also said to have had a rift with her once good friend, Princess Diana, after she claimed she got a verruca after borrowing a pair of her shoes.

Sarah has previously described her career as a writer as 'liberating', as she created a profile for herself away from the Royal Family

They were reportedly still not speaking at the time of Diana's death in 1997.

And in 2010 she apologised after being secretly recorded offering to sell access to Andrew in return for 500,000.

Mr Fitzwilliams told MailOnline: 'The decision not to invite Sarah Ferguson is extremely wise and to be welcomed. She has been an embarrassment to the Royal Family for many years.

'Time and again she gives embarrassing interviews, there seems no end to it.

'There are times when a dignified silence is required which she seems incapable of.'

Sarah did attend the Queen's funeral at Westminster Abbey last September, but was not one of the 30 guests for Prince Philip's funeral in April 2021.

Despite royal experts claiming the Duchess may have been left off the invitation list for the Coronation due to previous 'embarrassing' behaviour, she appeared in good form today

Among the characters created by the prolific writer is Little Red (pictured: Sarah holds a puppet of the character Little Red while speaking at a London book show)

She was spotted for the first time since news broke she wouldn't be attending the Coronation at the weekend.

Sarah cut a solemn figure as she was spotted leaving the Royal Lodge in Windsor following the snub.

The 63-year-old was seen in the passenger seat of a Range Rover driven by her ex-husband Prince Andrew.

The mother-of-two was dressed casually in a tan blazer, shirt and black circular glasses.

Meanwhile, Prince Andrew, 63, was sporting a navy jumper over a red shirt as he drove the 4x4 out of the complex.
The McDonald's website confirms Jordan's claims, explaining that the fries are cooked in 'an oil blend that contains beef flavoring'

A customer has left many people on the internet stunned - while horrifying many a vegetarian - after he revealed that McDonald's cooks its famous French fries in beef flavoring.

The man, named Jordan, shared the shocking discovery to TikTok last week, and his revelation resulted in outrage all over the web - especially from the fast food chain's vegan and vegetarian diners.

In his video, which got more than 9.4 million views, Jordan explained that he knows 'so many fast food secrets,' but there was one he just had to share with his followers.

'I know why McDonald's fries taste different from everybody else's fries,' he said. 'And I'm gonna tell you guys.

Shocking: A customer has left many people on the internet stunned after he revealed that McDonald's cooks its famous French fries in beef flavoring

The man, named Jordan, shared the shocking discovery to TikTok last week, and his revelation resulted in outrage all over the web - especially from vegan and vegetarian diners

'I know why McDonald's fries taste different from everybody else's fries,' he said. 'It's because McDonald's cook their fries with beef flavoring mixed within their vegetable oil' (stock image)

'It's because McDonald's cook their fries with beef flavoring mixed within their vegetable oil.

'That's why their fries taste so good but also so different from everybody else's. It's probably bad news for vegetarians but the more you know.'

According to McDonald's website, Jordan's statements are completely true. Its FAQ page reads: 'When our suppliers partially fry our cut potatoes, they use an oil blend that contains beef flavoring'

Jordan added that in the UK, Canada, and Australia, the popular burger joint doesn't use the beef flavoring in their French fries, explaining, 'They cook the fries with regular oil so if you're vegetarian, you can have the fries in those places.'

According to McDonald's website, Jordan's statements are completely true.

'When our suppliers partially fry our cut potatoes, they use an oil blend that contains beef flavoring,' the company states on its FAQ.

'This ensures the great-tasting and recognizable flavor we all love from our world famous fries.'

Many people were horrified over the news, and some vegetarians admitted that they had been eating the fries without realizing. One person wrote, 'I'M VEGETARIAN.'

'I'm sorry WHAT?' asked someone else, while a third viewer added, 'My whole life is a lie.'

Many people were horrified over the news, and some vegetarians admitted that they had been eating the fries without realizing

'Well, guess I'm not longer a vegetarian,' a different comment read.

Another TikToker commented: 'I've basically been eating meat all this time?'

Jordan added that in the UK, Canada, and Australia, the popular burger joint doesn't use the beef flavoring in their French fries, explaining, 'They cook the fries with regular oil so if you're vegetarian, you can have the fries in those places'

Others confirmed his findings. Someone else wrote: 'This is true, I went to culinary school with someone who worked there.'

Another user said: 'As a former worker, this is true.'

Back in 2002, the company was sued for using beef tallow - which is a rendered form of beef fat - in its fries, and was ordered to issue and apology and fork over $10 million to vegetarian and religious groups for 'misleading customers,' the New York Times reported.

It then switched to using beef flavoring rather than beef tallow, but it is unclear if the beef flavoring has any actual meat in it.

ChooseVeganism.org pointed out that it's not known what exactly goes into McDonald's beef flavoring, since 'companies in the US are not required to disclose the ingredients in flavor additives if all components are considered generally recognized as safe by the Food and Drug Administration.'

All it says on its website regarding the beef flavoring is that it contains wheat and milk, which are 'both allergens and must be disclosed.'

DailyMail.com has reached out to McDonald's for comment.

In comparison, both Wendy's and Burger King's fries are completely vegan.
Queen Maxima of The Netherlands stunned in a shimmering gold mini dress and sunglasses as she stepped out in Milan this evening.

The Queen, 51, looked fierce and fabulous as she put her best foot forward in the fashion capital of Italy to attend a dinner at Palazzo Giureconsulti during her visit to the city.

As she donned the sparkling dress which had Aztec-style gold detailing on the sleeves, paired with stylish gold pumps, she beamed and waved for the camera.

The mother-of-three wore her blonde locks in loose curls handing down her shoulders and shielded her eyes from the rays with a pair of sunglasses.

To accessorise, the Dutch royal opted for chunky gold hoop earrings and a gold clutch bag.

Queen Maxima of The Netherlands stunned in a shimmering gold frock with gold detailing on the sleeves as she attended a dinner in Milan this evening

Upon arrival at the Palazzo, Maxima was spotted chatting with the Dutch ambassador, Willem van Ee, and Nicole Uniquole.

The Queen's visit to the city in the north of Italy coincides with the Milan Salone del Mobile 2023, an annual furniture fair.

Her appearance comes as she and her husband, King Willem-Alexander of The Netherlands, confirmed their attendance at King Charles's coronation at Westminster Abbey next month.

Princess Beatrix, the King's mother, and Princess Catharine-Amalia, the heir apparent to the Dutch throne, will attend a reception after the ceremony.

The Dutch Queen looked ever the fashionista as she posed for photos while wearing sunglasses

Maxima accessorised with a pair of chunky gold hoop earrings and carried a shimmering gold clutch bag

The Argentine-born royal, who is a mother of three, looked glamorous as ever as she posed for photos

The Dutch royal, 51, was pictured chatting to Nicole Uniquole and the Dutch ambassador to Italy, Willem van Ee

Maxima glowed as her loosely-styled blonde locks blew in the wind as she arrived at the Palazzo Giureconsulti

The mother-of-two looked impressed by something that was shown above her as she arrived at the venue ahead of the dinner

Queen Maxima smiled as she stood in between the two other guests at the dinner this evening in Milan

Earlier today, Queen Maxima was looking just as chic in daywear as she does in her evening outfit as she was pictured strolling around the Italian city in a quirky light coat.

The royal turned heads in a Claes Iversen Pazia jacket which featured cut-out holes as she enjoyed a stroll at Parco della Musica in front of the Bosco Verticale building.

Underneath the coat, she wore a vibrant blue suit which she paired with nude Ferragamo leather heels.

She accessorised her ensemble with a 2,815 gold Begum Khan 'Evil Eye' clutch bag and 723 Cartier sunglasses.

The royal posed for a slew of snaps with Petra Blaisse who is the architect of Parco della Musica, and Stefano Boeri, the designer of Bosco Verticale skyscraper.
Lady Amelia Spencer and Greg Mallett are still living the newlywed dream as they share more snaps of their lavish honeymoon in the Maldives.

The couple, both 30, who married in the exclusive venue, La Cotte Farm, in South Africa last month, are still soaking up the sun and heat in their luxury resort nearly a month after they tied the knot.

Princess Diana's niece Lady Amelia posted yet more snaps of herself and her new husband posing against crystal clear blue waters in photos that will no doubt make her Instagram followers envious.

Other snaps shared on her Instagram story show the couple enjoying cocktails and taking sweet selfies as they bask in their newlywed glow.

She captioned the photos: 'Week two of honeymoon - in paradise @conrad_maldives #conradmaldives #conradhotels #themuraka'

Lady Amelia Spencer and her new husband Greg Mallett (pictured) are still living the newlywed dream in the Maldives

Last week Lady Amelia, who has also shared snaps of the lavish wedding ceremony with her 56,000 followers, posted a first set of images from the trip to the Maldives.

'The first few days of our magical honeymoon @coco_resorts #cocomoments,' she captioned the collection of picturesque images.

In one photograph the affectionate couple share a kiss while standing in the sea, and others showed the newlyweds enjoying breakfast in a pool.

In one snap, Amelia could be seen showing off her physique in an ivory ribbed one-piece while standing in a pool in front of a backdrop of waves. In another, the beauty poses as she enjoys the sun in the same infinity pool.

There were also plenty of couple pictures, with one sweet photo capturing a kiss the newlyweds shared on a night out.

The newlyweds are soaking up the sun and the heat in both the swimming pool of their resort (right) and the beach (left)

Lady Amelia (pictured) raises a crisp, cold glass of white wine with crystal clear sea water in the background as she and her husband have dinner

Dressed in a striped shirt and blue trousers, Greg can be seen kissing his bride, who is donning a short white dress and glittering platforms with a matching clutch bag, her blonde locks tied into a neat bun.

Loved-up Amelia also immortalised her husband horsing around with a pair of goggles and black rubber fins.

A selfie taken by the pair showed the couple smiling on their terrace, fresh off their dive, while another shared a glimpse of their breakfasts, served on floating racks in the pool.

The pair first met through mutual friends in Cape Town 13 years ago. In July 2020, Lady Amelia Spencer got engaged to long-term boyfriend Greg following a romantic proposal in South Africa.

The society beauty, who is the cousin of Princes William and Harry, met her real estate beau while they were both studying at the University of Cape Town.

The couple were together for 11 years before Greg, 32, popped the question at the exclusive Clouds Wine & Guest Estate in Stellenbosch.

The couple have spent plenty of time in the water, both swimming (left) and even paddleboarding (right)

Boho chic! Lady Amelia wears a cut-out white beach cover up and a flower in her hair as she sits down for lunch

Announcing their engagement on Instagram, Greg wrote: 'So this was the best day of my life. 22nd of July 2020, I asked the love of my life to spend the rest of her life with me and she said YES.

'Couldn't be happier and I love you with all my heart @ameliaspencer15.'

Speaking to Hello magazine shortly afterwards, Greg explained how he presented Amelia with a pink box - which contained eight smaller ones.

He said: 'In each box was a photograph of a "first time". The final box contained a note instead of a picture, that said: "But most importantly, I know that you will remember tonight as the night that I proposed."

'As Amelia was reading the note, I dropped to one knee with the ring.'

'I burst out crying,' Amelia added. 'I was in shock, I said: "Yes, yes, yes!" and gave him a hug and a kiss. I'm used to Greg being very romantic but I really had no idea.'

The couple share a kiss by a lamp on the beach in the dark as Lady Amelia stands on her tiptoes to embrace her husband

Charles, the younger brother of the late Princess of Wales, previously revealed that Greg had asked for his blessing before proposing in South Africa.

Taking to Twitter last year, he said: 'So happy for my daughter, Amelia, engaged to her boyfriend of 11 years, Greg - its wonderful to hear them both so excited about their future.

'Sending them both love, and every good wish for their life together. I love that Greg asked my blessing before proposing. Very sweet.'

In 2021, the couple relocated from South Africa to London shortly after Amelia's big sister Kitty's lavish wedding in Rome - with celebrations being spread over four days.

The couple tied-the-knot at exclusive venue at Quoin Rock Manor House on a mountaintop in the winelands of South Africas Western Cape on March 21.

The bride wore a custom Versace dress which took over two-and-a-half months to craft.

Speaking to Hello following their ceremony, Greg said: 'My love for Amelia has been reborn. Every day I fall more in love with this beautiful human by my side.'
Sarah Ferguson will be a 'VIP attendee' at the coronation concert to celebrate King Charles being officially crowned, according to reports.

The Duchess of York, 63, who was left off the guest list for the ceremony on 6 May at Westminster Abbey, will reportedly be among the guests of honour at the gig the following day.

Reports suggest Fergie will join her ex-husband Prince Andrew and daughters Princess Beatrice, 34, and Princess Eugenie, 33, on the East Lawn of Windsor Castle, where the concert is being held.

She will join 2,000 lucky ticket holders who have been selected to attend the concert, which will feature acts including Take That and Lionel Richie.

It follows previous claims that Fergie was excluded from the guest list at the coronation ceremony due to her previous 'conduct'.

Sarah Ferguson (pictured), 63, will be a 'VIP attendee' at the coronation concert in Windsor on 7 May, it has been reported - after it emerged she had been snubbed from the guest list at the ceremony at Westminster Abbey

A royal insider told The Sun that Fergie 'never would have expected' to be invited to the coronation.

They said: 'But she is delighted to be joining the wider family for the Coronation Concert.

'She cherishes those more relaxed times with the family and, contrary to some reports, is fully accepting of the situation.'

Royal commentator Tom Bower previously told MailOnline that the Duchess's presence would 'provoke critical comment which Charles doesn't need'.

And expert Richard Fitzwilliams praised the 'extremely wise' decision from the King because she has been an 'embarrassment to the Royal Family for many years'.

But the apparent decision has surprised some royal watchers  with Meghan's friend Omid Scobie tweeting: 'If true, this feels kinda cruel, no?'

Speaking about the absence of Sarah, Mr Bower said she will be left out 'because she is not a member of the Royal Family'.

King Charles and Queen Consort Camilla, who will be crowned at Westminster Abbey on 6 May, did not extend an invitation to Prince Andrew's ex-wife

He added that she had excluded herself 'by her past conduct', saying: 'Her presence would provoke critical comment which Charles doesn't need.'

Among Fergie's most embarrassing gaffes was when photographs were published showing her having her toes sucked by her financial adviser John Bryan at her holiday villa in St Tropez.

The pair were also seen kissing, embracing and frolicking in the pool.

She was also said to have had a rift with her once good friend, Princess Diana, after she claimed she got a verruca after borrowing a pair of her shoes.

They were reportedly still not speaking at the time of Diana's death in 1997.

And in 2010 she apologised after being secretly recorded offering to sell access to Andrew in return for 500,000.

Mr Fitzwilliams told MailOnline: 'The decision not to invite Sarah Ferguson is extremely wise and to be welcomed. She has been an embarrassment to the Royal Family for many years.

'Time and again she gives embarrassing interviews, there seems no end to it.

'There are times when a dignified silence is required which she seems incapable of.'

Sarah did attend the Queen's funeral at Westminster Abbey last September, but was not one of the 30 guests for Prince Philip's funeral in April 2021.

Earlier today, the Duchess of York was all smiles as she appeared at the London Book Fair to discuss her new erotic novel, A Most Intriguing Lady.

Fergie appeared lively as she opened up about her writing during a meet and greet session at the literary event.

She opted for a simple but stylish look, donning a black belted blazer with a mandarin collar over a red and black maxi skirt.

Sarah completed the ensemble with a pair of heeled black suede knee high boots, and an elegant half-up, half-down hair style and classic make-up look.
Bargain-hunting shoppers have discovered a little-known supermarket that sells groceries for a fraction of the price in the middle of a major Australian city.

Cheaper By Miles, a grocery store in three locations across Melbourne that sells goods close to or just past their best-before date.

Customers are flocking to the retailer for its ultra-cheap prices on items including cheese, oat milk, alcohol-free drinks, toiletries, ready-made meals and more.

They source their stock from suppliers who would otherwise throw it out for being so close to its expiry date and sell it at a heavily-discounted price.

Shoppers are obsessing over the one-of-a-kind store for its ultra low prices amid the rising cost of living including Claire Fastuca who called the bargain retailer 'insane'.

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Melbourne shoppers have discovered a budget supermarket that sells groceries for a fraction of the price. Cheaper By Miles has three stores in Brunswick, Flemington and Footscray

Customers are flocking to the store for its ultra-cheap prices on items including cheese, oat milk, alcohol-free drinks, ready-made meals and more

'If you aren't doing your grocery shopping at Cheaper By Miles you are missing out,' Claire said in a TikTok video.

Claire, who blogs about food finds from all over Melbourne, was shocked by the super-low prices.

She found oat milk for $1 per carton as well as pea snap chips for $2 a bag, and Dove and Schwarzkopf shampoos for just $3 each all because they are nearing their best-before date.

'When I say close by the use-by date I mean like two, three months, four months, five months,' she explained.

Shoppers are obsessing over the one-of-a-kind store for its ultra low prices amid the rising cost of living including Claire Fastuca who called the bargain retailer 'insane'

Claire found a pack of Cadbury Easter eggs for just $3.50 which she said are on sale at other supermarkets for more than $5.

She also picked up some oat milk and a whole bottle of fabric softener for just $1 each as well as six bottles of kombucha for $6.

'This place is just insane...go, you've got to go,' she said.

Viewers were wowed by Claire's grocery find and thanked her for the information while some were sad to see the secret spilled.

'Shhh don't tell anyone,' one woman said.

'Holy s***, this is cheaper than the reject shop!' a second replied.

Claire found a pack of Cadbury Easter eggs for just $3.50 which she said are on sale at other supermarkets for more than $5 and some oat milk and fabric softener for $1 each

While a looming expiry date might be off-putting for some shoppers Cheaper By Miles offers a 100 per cent money back guarantee if the product isn't up to standard

'Got all my Easter eggs and bunnies from them this year,' a customer wrote and another said: 'I drive 45 mins each way just to go here every couple of weeks. I love this place'.

'It's mostly 'best before' stuff not 'use by',' someone added.

Cheaper By Miles has varying stock depending on what's available and three locations across Melbourne including Bruswick, Footscray and Flemington.

While a looming expiry date might be off-putting for some shoppers Cheaper By Miles offers a 100 per cent money back guarantee if the product isn't up to standard.
She regularly shows off her hourglass figure and men fall at her feet

Mum of four and grandma of 2 exclusively dates men half her age

A self-proclaimed 'CEO of cougar' has revealed that she regularly flaunts her physique and exclusively dates younger men.

Tara, 49, from the US, is a mother of four who 'went through hell' raising her children without any help and is now intent on spending the rest of her life partying.

The woman was a teen mum and gave birth to her first child at 19.

Tara regularly shows off her hourglass figure and flowing blonde hair in photos and videos she posts on social media.

The woman constantly pushes back on what people think grandmothers 'should' look like and claims that she has several men falling at her feet every time she leaves the house.

Tara, 49, from the US, is a mother of four who 'went through hell' raising her children without any help and is now intent on spending the rest of her life partying

Tara has two grandchildren who are one and three, but said that 'every family needs a granny who dates people half her age'.

She also revealed that she was financially stable and is not interested in anyone else's money.

The woman claimed that she has no qualms dating men who are younger than her children.

'I was 48 and dating someone a year younger than my 29-year-old child,' she said in a video.

A self-proclaimed 'CEO of cougar' has revealed that she regularly flaunts her physique and exclusively dates younger men

Tara has faced several unhealthy romantic relationships in the past, and opened up about a former partner being unfaithful.

'Dumping a cheater is great, but have you ever dated the homewrecker's 27-year-old son?' she asked in a video.

She also claimed that she had been invited to dinner at her boyfriend's house to 'meet the family'.

Tara said she will 'never' date anyone her age ever again even though she's 'pushing 50'.

She wants women to live their life with 'joy and confidence' and forget what society says about age-appropriate clothing and behaviour.

Tara recently went viral for flaunting her curvy figure in a skin-tight black dress and strappy heels.

'So, this is 49,' the mum wrote.

Many were shocked by her confession, with several claiming she didn't look older than 25.

'So beautiful, I think I'm in love,' wrote one man.

'Fabulous - you're stunning for a 49-year-old.'

'You've aged like fine wine,' said a third.
A medical student and prolific campaigner for NHS strikes missed last week's chaos  because she was recovering from liposuction.

Eilidh Garrett, who lives in Manchester, has spent months cheering on junior doctors through her influential social media presence and attacked the Government for its lack of 'moral decency', conduct during strike talks and refusal to budge on pay.

The 26-year-old believes junior doctors deserve more than 35 per cent  the huge sum being demanded by the British Medical Association (BMA).

Miss Garrett joined tens of thousands of young medics on the picket line during the last walkout in March, which led to 175,000 procedures and appointments being cancelled.

But MailOnline can reveal Miss Garrett, who has racked up millions of views on her pro-strike Twitter posts, was unable to join colleagues during the four-day strike last week.

Eilidh Garrett has spent months cheering on junior doctors through her influential social media presence, attacking the Government for its lack of 'moral decency', conduct during strike talks and refusal to budge on pay

Miss Garrett told her thousands of followers on Saturday  after the unprecedented strike had finished  that she had undergone liposuction to her 'upper and lower' abdomen and 'inner and outer thighs and flanks' earlier in the week

This was despite it being branded the worst strike in the NHS's 75-year-history, designed to bring the ailing health service to a standstill to get ministers to agree to the BMA's pay demands.

Damning data yesterday revealed it led to more than 200,000 cancellations across the health service.

Miss Garrett, who has yet to qualify as a junior doctor, told her 7,000 followers on Saturday, after the unprecedented strike had finished, that she had undergone lipo to her 'upper and lower' abdomen and 'inner and outer thighs and flanks' earlier in the week.

She wrote: 'Recovery isn't supposed to be going this badly but clearly I'm a wuss. It wasn't traditional lipo so usually a much faster turn around.

'Before anyone says, I didn't do it to lose weight,' she added.

'I was happy with my weight but I carried a fair bit of weight on my thighs and my hips, that I felt was disproportionate, so this was just the right decision for me.'

Miss Garrett told her Twitter followers on April 11, the first day of the 96-hour strike, that she was 'excited' to try the anaesthetic drug propofol 'tomorrow', suggesting her op was on April 12.

That day, she updated her social media to say she was 'recovering well' and was at home.

In the UK, private liposuction surgery can cost between 2,000 and 6,000.

The op, which tends to last a few hours, can sometimes be offered on the NHS to treat certain health conditions, such as lymphoedema and lipoedema. Recovery can take weeks.

Miss Garrett, whom the BMA's The Doctor magazine has previously reported is estranged from her parents, described her surgery as 'traumatic' during the final full day of strike action and detailed how she almost fainted four or five times.

The Newcastle University student last year co-founded the campaign #LiveableNHSbursary, which calls for a review of the financial aid medical students receive during their training.

Currently, medical students are provided with full funding for their first four years of undergraduate study, as Student Finance England funds students for up to four years.

After this, the NHS bursary provides eligible full-time undergraduate students with a non means-tested grant of 1,000 and a means-tested grant of up to 3,191 for those in London or 2,643 outside London.

Graduate medicine students can apply for an income based maintenance loan from Student Finance England.

The campaign calls on the Government to allow medical students immediate access to full maintenance loans for the duration of their degree programme, alongside access to the NHS Learning Support Fund.

It also asks for a review of the travel and accommodation expenses granted to those undertaking practical training on a clinical placement.

In May 2022, speaking about the launch of the campaign, she told The Guardian her 10 hourly wages barely touch her 4,000 credit card debt.

She wrote: 'Recovery isn't supposed to be going this badly but clearly I'm a wuss. It wasn't traditional lipo so usually a much faster turn around. Before anyone says, I didn't do it to lose weight. I was happy with my weight but I carried a fair bit of weight on my thighs and my hips, that I felt was disproportionate, so this was just the right decision for me'

The 26-year-old, who has yet to qualify, believes junior doctors deserve more than 35 per cent, which is what the British Medical Association and its co-chairman Rob Laurenson, above, are demanding in a push for full 'pay restoration'

Miss Garrett even joined thousands of young medics on the picket line during their previous walkout in March, which led to 175,000 ops and appointments being cancelled

On Saturday Eilidh Garrett updated her 7,500 followers on her condition post surgery

In the days after her surgery, she took to Twitter to share her recovery process. 'Not how I wanted to spend Saturday', she tweeted

A fourth-year medicine student, she is due to graduate from the University of Newcastle this summer

Miss Garrett, who has also told her followers she only wanted to become a doctor for the money, did not want to comment when approached directly by MailOnline

Miss Garrett, who grew up in Hampshire, also worked part-time in car finance during her studies.

Medical students cannot take industrial action because they do not hold contracts with the NHS.

Although Miss Garrett, who has been vocal in the push for strikes, attended the first junior doctor walk-out this year in March in London, posting a picture of herself on her way to the picket line.

She is due to graduate this summer.

After a five-year medical degree  or four years for a graduate entry programme  students become junior doctors, starting their foundation year one.

However, Miss Garrett has publicly questioned on Twitter about whether she will begin the process.

Miss Garrett, who has also told her followers she only wanted to become a doctor for the money, did not want to comment when approached directly by MailOnline.

But she complained on social media that our story was 'scraping the bottom of the barrel' because her medical placement was cancelled and that she is 'completely cool with what I do in my own time'.

Writing on Twitter yesterday evening, she said: 'I chose to get surgery and Im not gunna feel ashamed about it.

'I don't think anyone here doubts how much I support the strikes despite my absence from the picket line.

'I was also absent from the picket line one of the days during the last strikes because I was busy seeing mates.'

Last week's junior doctor walkout involved more than 20,000 young medics across the country and saw some 196,225 hospital appointments and operations cancelled over the four days.

The BMA is seeking a 35 per cent pay rise to address the 26 per cent real-terms pay cut junior doctors have faced over the last 15 years.

It has said it was 'willing to negotiate on how to achieve pay restoration', but attempts to begin talks have so far failed.

After a five year medical degree - or four years for a graduate entry programme - students become junior doctors, starting their foundation year one. Ms Garrett has however publicly questioned however on Twitter whether she will begin her foundation year

Last week Eilidh Garrett attacked the Government for its lack of 'moral decency' during junior doctor strike action

The Newcastle University medical student co-founded the campaign #LiveableNHSbursary, which calls for a review of the financial aid medical students receive during their training. Last May she told The Guardian her 10 hourly wages barely touched her 4,000 credit card debt

The BMA is seeking a 35 per cent pay rise to address the 26 per cent real-terms pay cut junior doctors have faced over the last 15 years. It has said it is 'willing to negotiate on how to achieve pay restoration'. Health Secretary Steve Barclay has repeatedly insisted the demand is unaffordable

Base salaries for junior doctors, who can spend up to ten years in the position before reaching a senior title, can be up to 58,000 per year. But in their first year  known as foundation doctor year one  they can expect just over 29,000 annually

Health Secretary Steve Barclay has repeatedly said the demand is unaffordable.

If ministers were to cave in, some medics would get more than 20,000.

Base salaries for junior doctors, who can spend up to ten years in the position before reaching a senior title, can be up to 58,000 per year.

But in their first year  known as foundation doctor year one  they can expect just over 29,000 annually.

Writing on Twitter in March, Miss Garrett claimed: '35 per cent is a negotiating point because we deserve more than 35 per cent.'

Last week, on the day strike action began, she also wrote: 'Do I deserve to be paid 14 per hour? To be paid less than I was as a medical secretary? To be paid less than a doctor ten years ago? I think not.'
More than 40 school districts across ten US states are suing social media giants including Facebook, Snapchat and TikTok over claims they 'knowingly caused harm to children' with their 'malicious' algorithms.

Schools are seeking damages for the larger mental health teams they now need to handle the crisis. They also point out that social media has fueled a rise in dangerous trends, such as the 'Blackout Challenge' where children strangle themselves.

Instagram, owned by Facebook, has been repeatedly pummelled for promoting self-harm content while other platforms have been accused of making children insecure  especially teenage girls.

Critics say, however, that the lawsuits are unlikely to be successful, suggesting it will be too hard to prove that social media companies caused the mental health crisis. They suggest that schools cannot sue sources of 'social ills' that cause damage to their property.

The above map shows the location of the school districts that have filed lawsuits against social media companies seeking damages for the expanded mental health services they are providing

Poor mental health levels in American children are now at record levels. The CDC has found 57 percent of girls in high school are now struggling with persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness. Among boys, the level is 29 percent

Social media companies have responded to the lawsuits saying there are already parental controls available on their platforms.

They also say that they are continuing to work hard to remove content promoting suicide, self-injury and eating disorders.

America's youths are in crisis, experts say, especially teenage girls where the number saying they are feeling sad or hopeless persistently has rocketed from 36 to 57 percent within a decade.

The proportion saying they were seriously considering attempting suicide has also risen to 30 percent compared to 19 percent a decade beforehand.

Experts have blamed multiple factors for the uptick including overbearing parents and disruptions caused by the Covid pandemic.

They have also suggested that social media could be a major cause because it encourages people to compare themselves to others, addiction and 'FOMO' or fear of missing out.

Teenagers are more vulnerable to this, they said, because they tend to be far more concerned about what others think of them.

School districts say that social media is harming children and they are seeking damages for the larger mental health services they now need (stock image)

There has also been an uptick in the number of high school girls considering attempting suicide, the CDC said, rising from 19 to 30 percent

Filing the latest lawsuit last week at the Federal District Court in San Francisco County, Frantz law group said: 'We allege that Meta, TikTok, Snap, YouTube and other social media companies have engaged in reckless and negligent misconduct that has caused a mental health crisis among our youth.

'Social media companies are and have been well aware of the harm they cause.

'It must stop, and we will fight to hold these social media companies accountable for choosing profit over the mental health and safety of children and their families.'

The litigation involves 16 schools across nine states including six in California, three in Oklahoma, and one each in Maryland, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Nebraska, Utah, Pennsylvania and Idaho.

It says that children's ability to succeed in school is being seriously affected by mental health problems triggered by social media.

They add that many children and students are often subject to harmful and exploitative content viewed online.

Schools are seeking damages from social media companies, although an amount is yet to be revealed.

Seattle Public Schools, one of the largest in Washington, became the first to sue social media companies over children's mental health in early January.

Legal actions have since snowballed with two districts in New Jersey and one in California joining before a 109-page suit was filed by all 23 districts in San Mateo County, near San Francisco.

In San Mateo, schools are seeking damages over the 'devious lick' challenge, which saw children make off with soap dispensers, exit signs and even microscopes from schools before posting the videos on social media.

This suit points to rising rates of mental health problems among teenagers saying the rising popularity of social media 'tracks precisely' to the decline in mental health.

But lawyers are warning that the suits are unlikely to get far because it will be hard to prove that the mental health crisis was caused by social media.

Dr Eric Goldman, co-director of the High Tech Law Institute at Santa Clara University in California told Law.com: 'Think about all the things that are social ills that manifest themselves on school propertydrugs, political discord, domestic violence.

'Can schools sue all the potential sources of those social ills for nuisance? Can they sue the drug dealers for nuisance? Can they sue the gang organizers for nuisance? None of that makes sense.

'Its a social problem that needs to be dealt with through traditional law enforcement meansnot with school districts usurping legislatures to make their own policy and enforcement.'

He added: 'It's my position that it's unlikely that the school districts have standing to claim the harms that are really attributed to students' personal lives.

'One way of thinking about it is school districts ought not to be filing these lawsuits because they aren't the right parties in interest.'

He added that so many schools were likely bringing the action because they were not being asked to cover any upfront costs.

'If the plaintiff's lawyers are getting a cut of the economic upside, then they want to line up as many school districts as possible,' he said.

Antigone Davis, head of safety at Meta, which owns Facebook, responded by saying: 'We want to reassure every parent that we have their interests at heart in the work were doing to provide teens with safe, supportive experiences online.

'Weve developed more than 30 tools to support teens and their families, including tools that allow parents to decide when, and for how long, their teens use Instagram, age verification technology, automatically setting accounts belonging to those under 16 to private when they join Instagram, and sending notifications encouraging teens to take regular breaks.

'Weve invested in technology that finds and removes content related to suicide, self-injury or eating disorders before anyone reports it to us.

'These are complex issues, but we will continue working with parents, experts and regulators such as the state attorneys general to develop new tools, features and policies that meet the needs of teens and their families.'

A Snap spokesperson said: 'Nothing is more important to us than the wellbeing of our community.

'At Snapchat, we curate content from known creators and publishers and use human moderation to review user-generated content before it can reach a large audience, which greatly reduces the spread and discovery of harmful content.

'We also work closely with leading mental health organizations to provide in-app tools for Snapchatters and resources to help support both themselves and their friends. We are constantly evaluating how we continue to make our platform safer, including through new education, features and protections.'
Rishi Sunak has today slammed vaping firms who prey on children, warning that 'bad things will happen to them'.

The Prime Minister hit out at the marketing of e-cigarettes, saying they are clearly 'designed to appeal to kids'.

Mr Sunak said it's 'not right' that colourful packaging, characters and flavours are used to sell the nicotine-containing gadgets.

Nearly one in 10 secondary school pupils in England now vape regularly, with rates having doubled over the last decade.

Last month, a MailOnline investigation revealed vapes are being sold alongside sweets  despite being illegal for kids to buy. This website's probe also uncovered 'dupe' e-cigs made to look like sweets and told the stories of children left scarred by the devices.

Rishi Sunak has slammed vaping firms who prey on children, as he warned 'bad things will happen to them'

It comes after a MailOnline investigation exposed the predatory marketing tactics of vape firms selling the products alongside sweets

MailOnline's investigation also uncovered 'dupe' e-cigarettes made to look like sweets, and told the stories of children left scarred by the devices

Mr Sunak told Sky News' children's programme FYI: 'No one should be vaping under 18. It's illegal to sell vapes to children.

'But yet we know that more and more young people are. We want to stop that.'

He pointed to 'illicit vapes enforcement squad', which the Government this month announced would be launched in light of the increasing number of young vapers.

The squads, led by Trading Standards, will work across the nation and 'clamp down' on businesses selling vapes to under-18s.

The PM said millions of pounds have been put behind the scheme, to help enforce the rules and he warned of the consequences for those who are caught selling to children.

'If they do, then bad things will happen to them,' Mr Sunak said.

He also made a plea for help in finding effective ways of preventing children from vaping. The Government last week launched a call for evidence that aims to identify the 'best ideas' to crack down on vaping among children.

Mr Sunak said: 'That's how Government makes policy. I don't just wake up in the morning and just announce something. We take time to talk to people, to listen, to get ideas and then make the right decision.'

He added: 'The adverts for these things [vapes] are designed to appeal to kids, you know, with the colours they use, the characters they use  that's not right  their flavours. This is all things that shouldn't be happening.'

Shock NHS data shows almost one in 10 secondary pupils are regular vapers, double the proportion in 2014.

And as many as 30 per cent of under-18s in some regions have used the devices, according to statistics.

MailOnline's investigation found sweet shops along London's Oxford Street selling brightly coloured e-cigarettes alongside candy  which a top paediatric expert described as 'no coincidence'.

Professor Andrew Bush, from Imperial College London, said: 'It is very clear all these flavourings are marketed at children.'

Our investigation also discovered 'dupe' vapes mimicking Chupa Chups, Skittles, Jolly Rancher, Rubicon and Calypso, with near-identical branding to the popular sweets and drinks in other stores along Oxford Street and online.

Professor Bush condemned the predatory duplications, saying 'anything that gives the impression these are harmless, child-friendly things is an outrageous attempt to prey upon children and young people'.

And the doctor warned the 'acute damage' caused by vaping is 'much greater than can be done with cigarettes'.

'Kids have been in intensive care and people have died from it,' he said. 'Its rare, thankfully, but it happens.'
A British NHS nurse is in a 'coma-like state' in a hospital in Hungary after suffering a cardiac arrest while on holiday.

Kerstie Metcalf's desperate family are urgently trying to raise 50,000 to bring the 51-year-old home so she can be surrounded by those close to her.

The cash would help pay off the medical bills, with the mother-of-two having been hospitalised since Easter Monday.

It would also cover the cost of an air ambulance, which would be equipped with the necessary breathing apparatus and monitoring systems.

The Government will not pay for Ms Metcalf, from Benfleet, Essex, to fly home, her family has been told.

Unable to repatriate her back home to the UK, Kerstie Metcalf's family and loved ones have begun fundraising to help pay the mother-of-two's medical bills and cover the cost of an air ambulance. Pictured above with her son Sam, 28

The senior wound care nurse - who works across south Essex hospitals including Basildon and Brentwood - has dedicated the last 30 years of her life working for the NHS

As Ms Metcalf is registered disabled, she didn't have private medical insurance she found any kind of insurance 'extremely' difficult to obtain given the 'high premiums', her son Sam Metcalf told MailOnline. Pictured above, Kerstie, Sam and sibling, Bella

Her son Sam, 28, told MailOnline: 'The embassy said they can't do anything unless she died.'

Currently, the family have raised 15,000.

'I know times are tough and not everyone has the funds to give a massive donation,' Mr Metcalf said.

'But any donation is welcomed and it goes a long way.

'Every penny that is raised will get her one step closer to coming back home.'

Ms Metcalf and her fiance Akos Hasznos, 43, travelled to Pecs in southern Hungary on Good Friday to visit his family.

Although registered disabled and recommended to shield once the Covid pandemic emerged, she continued working. 'She said she wanted to do her part,' Mr Metcalf told MailOnline

She was also 'looking to retire out there as well,' her son said.

But while watching her fiance  a musician  perform on April 10, she suffered a cardiac arrest and was resuscitated at the scene.

She was 'heavily sedated' by medics and put into 'a coma-like state' to protect her brain.

Doctors think she has irreversible damage because of her ordeal.

Her family now urgently await an official diagnosis in the UK, Mr Metcalf said.

'She was resuscitated at the time and was brought back breathing. However, she's since been in a coma-like-state ever since.' he added.

As Ms Metcalf is registered disabled, she didn't have private medical insurance.

She found any kind of insurance 'extremely' difficult to obtain given the 'high premiums', he told MailOnline.

Mr Hasznos has not left her side in the hospital in Hungary since her cardiac arrest.

Mr Metcalf told MailOnline the family immediately contacted the Foreign Office and their local MP, who advised them to speak to the British Embassy in Hungary.

The hospital in Pecs has however been in contact with Southend Hospital.

'She's got her release papers and there's a bed over here for her if she does get the transportation sorted,' he added.

The senior wound care nurse, who works across south Essex hospitals including Basildon and Brentwood, has dedicated the last 30 years of her life working for the NHS.

Although registered disabled and recommended to shield once the Covid pandemic emerged, she continued working.

'She said she wanted to do her part,' Mr Metcalf told MailOnline.

Writing on the GoFundMe, Ms Metcalf's family said: 'Any help or contribution will be appreciated more than we can say.

'Let's get our NHS hero home where she belongs.'
Antidepressants can raise the risk of suicide, researchers have warned today.

The powerful drugs  taken by millions  can even be the means of death among patients battling the mental disorder, experts said today.

Academics at the University of East London examined almost 8,000 inquests over the last two decades which mentioned the drugs.

Around half were definitively ruled to be suicides, demonstrating antidepressants 'clearly did not work' for thousands of Brits.

One in eight deaths involved an overdose of antidepressants themselves, showing they can give 'the mechanism for killing oneself', according to lead author Dr John Read.

Psychiatrists said the findings 'do nothing' to tackle concerns that depression treatments 'may not be having the intended effect on suicide outcomes'.

A team from the University of East London examined nearly 8,000 inquests that took place in England and Wales over the last two decades which mentioned the drugs. Pictured: Fluoxetine (branded as Prozac) which was cited as the drug used in 41 overdoses

They found that around half were definitively ruled to be suicides, demonstrating that antidepressants 'clearly did not work' for thousands of Brits. Pictured: Citalopram, branded as Cipramil, which was cited as the drug used in 86 overdoses

And one in eight of the deaths involved an overdose using antidepressants themselves  showing they can provide 'the mechanism for killing oneself', the researchers said. Pictured: Sertraline (branded as Zoloft), which was used in 25 overdoses

It comes after a landmark study last year called into question society's ever-growing reliance on drugs like Prozac.

University College London academics debunked the main theory justifying why GPs dish them out so often, ruling there was 'no convincing evidence' to say depression is caused by an imbalance of the 'feel-good' chemical serotonin.

Other studies have stated selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI)  the most widely prescribed medication  don't work any better than a placebo.

Dr Read and colleagues analysed media reports of 7,829 coroners' inquests in England and Wales between 2003 and 2020.

Antidepressants were mentioned on the official ruling of each death.

The reports were taken from the AntiDepAware website, created to monitor deaths involving the drugs.

It was set up by an anonymous father who lost his son to suicide in 2009, days after he was prescribed the SSRI citalopram for temporary insomnia.

What are antidepressants? Antidepressants are medicines that treat depression symptoms. There are around 30 different types that can be prescribed. The NHS says that most people who have moderate or severe depression notice improvement when they take antidepressants. But it notes that this isn't the case for everyone. Side effects vary between different people and antidepressants but can include nausea, headaches, a dry mouth and problems having sex. Antidepressants aren't addictive but patients may have withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking them suddenly or miss a dose. These can include an upset stomach, flu-like symptoms, anxiety, dizziness and vivid dreams. Advertisement

The results, which will be published in the Ethical Human Psychology and Psychiatry this week, show there were 2,718 cases of hanging.

There were also 2,239 overdoses, of which 933 involved antidepressants themselves.

A further 552 deaths were down to being struck by a train, tube, lorry, bus or other vehicle, while 979 were due to jumping, falling, drowning, electrocution or shooting or setting themselves on fire.

Coroners reached a conclusive 'suicide' verdict in 3,543 cases.

'If preventing suicide is a primary reason for prescribing antidepressants, this data set includes several thousand people for whom the drugs clearly did not work,' the study states.

Dr Read, a professor of clinical psychology, added: 'I hope the painstaking work of a bereaved parent will lead to enhanced awareness of just how dangerous these drugs can be.

'Not only do they not reduce suicidality  but they also actually increase it for many, and for some they provide the mechanism for killing oneself.'

Researchers said that the dataset relies primarily on the archives of local newspapers so is incomplete  meaning it will actually underestimate the total number of deaths involving antidepressants.

They noted that it is unclear how many deaths were due to the underlying problems that antidepressants were prescribed for and how many antidepressants contributed to.

Mental health charity Mind notes that antidepressants can lift mood, helping people to do things that don't feel possible when they're depressed.

But it can be concluded the drugs 'failed to lift the depression sufficiently' to prevent nearly 8,000 deaths, according to the researchers.

Dr Mark Horowitz, a clinical research fellow in psychiatry at North East London NHS Foundation Trust, said it is 'particularly concerning' that SSRIs  which are marketed as being safer than other forms of antidepressants  are used for suicide in so many cases in this sample of inquests.

He said: 'This study does nothing to dispel concerns the treatments we are using for depression may not be having the intended effect on suicide outcomes.

'Because this study makes it hard to know whether it was the drugs or the underlying condition that led to the suicides, we urgently need to have long-term, randomised studies looking at the effect of antidepressants on suicidality to work out whether they are really helping people or not.'

Prescriptions for antidepressants among teens have risen by a quarter in England in 2020 compared to 2016. The greatest growth was seen among 13 and 19-year-olds where prescription rates rose by about a third

Young adults, who are often leaving home for the first time and starting their careers also saw antidepressant prescription rates boom by about 40 per cent

However, Dr Adrian James, president of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, said the findings merely show an association that some people who died by suicide were taking antidepressants at the time.

'It does not demonstrate a causal link. It is a fundamental principle of science that correlation does not equate to causation,' he said.

Dr James added: 'The overwhelming body of medical evidence tells us antidepressants help to reduce the symptoms of and improve the quality of life for adults with moderate and severe depression, as well as anxiety and other mental illnesses.

'While antidepressants can control symptoms, they do not necessarily treat the underlying cause of the depression or eradicate it. For this reason, antidepressants are recommended to be prescribed alongside talking therapies for treatment of depression.'

One in six people in England (8.32million) took antidepressants in 2021/22, a 5.7 per cent rise on one year earlier.

Uptake has soared in recent years, despite growing unease among experts about the effectiveness of the drugs in treating depression.

Marion Brown, a psychotherapist, said: 'Whenever you hear of a suicide you wonder if there was a connection with these prescribed drugs.

'And all too often, as time goes on, the reports confirm that there likely was.

'An effect of the drugs is that people describe finding themselves completely unable to think of anything else except ending their lives.'

The UCL study in 2021 found that the evidence for using antidepressants was based on short trials that did not show a significant effect.

The team concluded that there remains 'considerable uncertainty about the benefits' and that while the drugs may work for severe depression, the 'cons may outweigh the pros' for others.

The Royal College of Psychiatrists said the original idea that antidepressants 'correct a chemical imbalance in the brain' is an oversimplification.

But the theory is still taught at medical schools and in psychiatric textbooks.

Antidepressants can also trigger a range of side effects, including a dry mouth, nausea, headaches and problems having sex, as well as withdrawal symptoms among those who try to come off them.

In recent months, the NHS watchdog has approved a series of apps and web-based courses that aim to tackle depression.

It is hoped that offering online services will speed up access to treatment as well as reduce the overreliance on drug medications.
The death of a teenage boy who overdosed on an allergy drug as part of an online game has shone a light on the dangers of social media challenges.

Thirteen-year-old Jacob Stevens, from Columbus, Ohio, swallowed more than a dozen Benadryl pills as his friends filmed to see what would happen.

His body then began to seize up within minutes. Within hours his organs began to shut down and his brain became nonresponsive. Stevens died after six days on a ventilator.

Stevens is the third known victim of the 'Benadryl Challenge', a deadly viral TikTok game that supposedly induces hallucinations. In 2020, a 15-year-old girl from Oklahoma also died from overdosing on the pills.

Social media challenges began as fun initiatives to raise awareness for chronic conditions, such as the Ice Bucket Challenge, has now morphed into sinister and dangerous trends.

The 13-year-old from Ohio was remembered as a fun-loving and caring kid who could brighten anybody's day

13-year-old Jacob Stevens took 12 to 14 Benadryl pills, causing him to die from an overdose

One of the most dangerous, the Blackout Challenge, involves teens purposely restricting their breathing by choking themselves with a belt, rope, or similar item. It resulted in more than 80 deaths when it first emerged and caused another 15 last year.

And the Skull Breaker challenge, in which two participants purposely try to make a third person fall and hit their head on the ground, has caused several deaths and resulted in criminal charges for those partaking.

Others that have resulted deaths or injuries involve drinking hand sanitizer to 'get drunk' and taking sleeping pills and seeing who can stay awake longest.

Many young people participate in these challenges, though clearly unsafe, to fit in.

'When people interact with the influencers and take part in these challenges, it gives them a sense of belonging and or notoriety even, and young people especially are looking for acceptance. That also includes social media acceptance,' Dr Kelly Johnson-Arbor, MD, medical toxicology physician for the National Capital Poison Center, told DailyMail.com.

Blackout Challenge

Arriani Arroyo, 9, died from participating in the Blackout Challenge, which has seen a recent resurgence on TikTok

Also referred to as the 'choking game' or the 'pass-out challenge,' this social media trend involves the participant purposely restricting their breathing with a belt, rope, or similar item.

The challenge predates TikTok and goes back to 2008, during which 82 deaths were confirmed, according to the CDC.

However, it has seen a recent resurgence.

A late 2022 Bloomberg Businessweek report linked at least 15 deaths in children under 12 and under to the challenge in the last 18 months. Five more children between ages 13 and 14 died as well.

Victims were as young as eight years old.

Two more deaths have been confirmed in 2023: 12-year-old Tristan Casson of Ohio and 12-year-old Milagros Soto of Argentina.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released a list of signs that might indicate someone is trying the blackout challenge, including bloodshot eyes, marks on the neck, severe headaches, and feeling disoriented after spending time alone.

Kia Challenge

Ahjanae Harper, a 14-year-old victim of the Kia Challenge, had recently given birth to a baby girl before losing her life

The four teens were killed after a car they allegedly stole using the 'Kia Boyz' TikTok hack that allows kids to hotwire a car easily crashed in Buffalo

A TikTok trend that emerged in 2021 led to a spike in stolen Kia and Hyundai car models in the United States.

Dubbed the 'Kia Challenge,' users are shown how to steal certain Kia and Hyundai models by removing a plastic cowl under the steering column and using a USB cable.

This has led to injury and death from kids, particularly those not old enough to drive, losing control of the vehicles.

WIVB in Buffalo, New York, reported that four local teens, ages 14-19, were killed in October in after crashing a vehicle they stole as part of the challenge. Two other passengers were, including the 16-year-old driver, survived.

The victims included a 14-year-old Ahjanae Harper, who had recently given birth to a baby girl before the accident.

Skull Breaker Challenge

This stunt challenge, which first emerged in 2020, has led to an increase in serious injuries and death in the US and the UK.

While the videos initially appear innocuous, they take a dangerous turn.

The challenge involves three people standing side by side. They all say they are going to jump into the air, however, the two on the end don't jump. Instead, they kick the middle person's legs from under them, causing that person to fall.

The name 'skull breaker' is a reference to the victims' heads hitting the ground as they fall.

The challenge started in Spain when two students filmed themselves carrying out the prank on an unsuspecting third participant.

Kids falls to the ground after receiving kicks during the 'skull breaker challenge'

Two students in New Jersey faced criminal charges in 2020 for seriously injuring a classmate with the challenge, including third-degree aggravated assault and third-degree endangering an injured victim, the Washington Post reported.

The challenge has been linked to two deaths in 2021 in Brazil.

In a newsroom warning, TikTok said, 'We do not allow content that encourages or replicates dangerous challenges that might lead to injury.

'In fact, it's a violation of our community guidelines and we will continue to remove this type of content from our platform.

In the hand sanitizer challenge, users drink the cleaning supply in an effort to get drunk

'Nobody wants their friends or family to get hurt filming a video or trying a stunt.

'It's not funny - and since we remove that sort of content, it certainly won't make you TikTok famous.'

Hand Sanitizer Challenge

The search 'drinking hand sanitizer challenge' has more than 64 million views on TikTok. It was also linked to four deaths and six seizures in 2020, the CDC reported.

The CDC reported four deaths and six seizures in 2020.

The agency reported that 15 adults in Arizona and New Mexico were hospitalized for methanol poisoning after consuming alcohol-based sanitizers between May and June 2020.

Sixty-two calls were made to poison control centers during that time for cases of methanol poisoning from alcohol-based sanitizers.

Victims were between the ages of 21 to 65.

Benadryl Challenge

The 'Benadryl Challenge' involves taking high amounts of the over-the-counter allergy medicine to see how long you can stay awake, as well as to induce hallucinations.

The challenge has led to overdose deaths, including that of 13-year-old Jacob Stevens this month.

A case study performed on a 14-year-old victim stated that the victim has no indications of medical or psychiatric conditions that would have led to suicidal thoughts.

'The manner of death was an accident,' the report stated.

Experts warn against any challenge that involves using medication.

'Any social media challenge that involves medication, even over the counter products is potentially dangerous,' Dr Johnson-Arbor said. 'People should only take medications as directed on the package insert.'

After reports of hospitalizations and deaths in 2020, the Food and Drug Administration issued a warning against taking higher than the recommended dose of over-the-counter allergy medications, such as Benadryl.

'Taking higher than recommended doses of the common over-the-counter (OTC) allergy medicine diphenhydramine (Benadryl) can lead to serious heart problems, seizures, coma, or even death,' the agency said.

Benadryl, a Johnson & Johnson medication, issued a statement calling the trend 'dangerous' and calling it for it to be 'stopped immediately.'
Manfacturers claim their devices are valuable for preventing the use of nicotine

America's vaping epidemic is being fueled by people who never smoked before  in more evidence the devices are not simply a cessation aid.

The number of US adults who use the devices increased 16 percent from 2019 to 2021, according to a report by the American Cancer Society (ACS), from 8.8 to 10.2 percent of the population.

But the rates among people who have never smoked traditional cigarettes are rising twice as fast. Over that three-year period, those numbers jumped 31 percent.

The rise in young people who've never smoked cigarettes is even more stark, with a study last year finding 14 percent of vape users start at age 13 or younger.

Younger people who do not and have never smoked cigarettes before are more likely to pick up vaping than their peers, and they account for the most growth in vape use from 2019 to 2021

Vaping is now more common than smoking among American adults under 30, according to most recent data. Around 27 percent of US under 30s vape while only 12 percent smoke

'Unfortunately, these numbers show we're moving in the wrong direction concerning e-cigarette use in this vulnerable population,' Dr Priti Bandi, lead author of the study and member of the ACS, said.

'Our research finding is concerning as it may point to an increase in nicotine addiction risk for young adults, potentially contributing to progression to combustible tobacco products, and may also increase exposure to unknown toxicants, carcinogens, and the risk of respiratory diseases.'

According to the ACS study, just over one in ten American adults use vapes. This makes up nearly 30 million people.

Vapes are relatively new compared to cigarettes, first hitting shelves in 2007 and rising to prominence in the mids-2010s.

The devices seem to have filled a gap left by traditional combustible cigarettes, which have seen use gradually decline in recent decades.

In their research, published Tuesday in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, the ACS team gathered survey data from 75,000 people between 2019 and 2021.

Respondents to the National Health Interview Survey, administered by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), were asked about their current and previous smoking habits.

Participants who said they regularly vaped were then divided by age and whether they had smoked before.

Overall, the number of US adults who smoked increased, from making up 8.8 percent of the study population to 10.2 percent.

This rise was primarily fueled by young people who reported that they had never previously smoked.

In 2019, 1.97million never-smokers between 18 and 29 reported that they vaped, compared to just 1.37million current smokers.

But, by 2021 vaping among young never smokers increased by more than a third, to 2.68millon.

in the same age group, vape use among current smokers dropped 28 percent, to below 1million.

When using data from all ages, the number of never-smokers who vaped increased 31 percent, from 2.55 to 3.35million.

Over the entire data set, current smokers made up around the same number of vapers, with 3.35million also reporting vape use.

The biggest portion of vapers is made up by people who ditched smoking, with 4.48million previous cigarette users now using the electronic devices.

This data only includes adults and does not account for the surge in vape use among children and teens in America.

A CDC report published in October found that 2.55million US middle and high school students reported using the devices over the past month.

Dr Brian King, head of the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) Center for Tobacco Products, said last year that adolescent e-cigarette use in the US remained at 'concerning levels'.

He went on to say that use of these devices also posed a serious public health risk.

In that study, it was also found that 85 percent of teens who vaped used flavored devices.

These firms are facing intense scrutiny in recent years, with industry-leader Juul paying $460million to settle lawsuits regarding marketing to children last week.

Much of this rise has been credited to Juul. The embattled San Francisco, California-based company has paid more than $1billion to settle lawsuits alleging it marketed it products to teens.

The firm used to sell a variety of fruit and candy-flavored vape products, though nearly all have since been pulled from the market under regulatory pressure.

A surge in vape use in the US was fueled by a rising number of non-smoker picking up the habit. Researchers found that 3.35million previous non-smokers are now vaping, up from 2.55million in 2019

Last year, the FDA banned the products, though it put the ban on hold and agreed to reconsider the action after the company appealed.

Vapes rose to prominence in the mid-2010s. Nicotine and tobacco use had been sharply declining among young people for decades.

Gallup found that only 21 percent of US adults aged 18 to 29 regularly smoked in 2015, the year when vapes started to gain significance in America.

By 2022, Gallup reports a smoking rate of just 12 percent.

Vapes began to fill this market, though. Gallup found that one in five 18 to 29 year olds used a vape regularly in 2018. The figure grew to 27 percent in 2022.

Juul, and its competitors such as Elf Bar, Vaporesso and Smok, claim the rise in their devices is helping bring smoking rates down.

Many industry leaders and outside experts have cited vapes as an excellent tool for helping people quit smoking.

On their face, the devices have been deemed healthier than cigarettes by many experts because vapes do not contain tobacco, tar and thousands of other harmful substances.

However, a trove of research is starting to cast doubt on these claims, showing they cause similar damage to the heart and lungs that normal cigarettes do.

While absent of tobacco, they still contain hundreds of chemicals that irritate the lungs.

Nicotine itself also causes the restriction and narrowing of blood vessels, limiting the amount of blood that flows to a person's organs.
This is the most detailed image ever taken of a brain - 64 million times sharper than current technology allows.

The picture was taken of a mouse brain using a high-powered magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) device with an unprecedented level of detail.

Scientists have yet to repeat the highly detailed scans on human brains, which could in the future help doctors detect diseases earlier and patients survive longer.

They hope the scans of mice will pave the way for breakthroughs in the treatment and progression of neurological diseases such as Alzheimers.

The ultra-detailed MRI was able to capture images in such detail that each voxel, or 3D version of a pixel, measured five-thousandths of a millimeter, 64 million times smaller than weve seen before. Photo courtesy of the Duke Center for In Vivo Microscopy

Scientists were able to produce the rainbow-colored peek inside the neural networks of mice of varying ages and genetic makeups using extremely strong magnets

A team of researchers from North Carolina, Tennessee, Pennsylvania, and Indiana used a high-powered MRI scanner that delivers the crispest, most detailed images, revealing intricacies about a mouse brain's organization and connectivity.

The scientists produced MRI scans that were a staggering 64 million times clearer than can currently be achieved in hospitals.

While MRI scans are crucial to the diagnosis of potentially deadly conditions such as brain tumors, they cannot currently go into microscopic detail.

After completing an MRI scan on a mouse's brain in exquisite detail, scientists produced another image using a method known as light sheet microscopy. This allowed the team to visualize the internal structure and connections within the brain in technicolor detail.

The scans have so far only been performed on mice, but the scientists behind the innovation are optimistic that the technology could be integral to tracking age-related changes in human brains, possibly leading to new breakthrough treatments.

The team was led by researchers at the Center for In Vivo Microscopy at Duke University and is the culmination of four decades of research.

The colorful scans show changes in the brain's connections as it ages. They also illustrate how specific regions of the brain - such as the memory-involved subiculum - change more than the rest of the mouse's brain.

The report detailing the scans' findings was published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Dr G. Allan Johnson the lead author of the new paper said: 'It is something that is truly enabling. We can start looking at neurodegenerative diseases in an entirely different way.'

An MRI employs magnets and radio waves to produce scans.

The scientists were able to produce the rainbow-colored peek inside the neural networks of mice of varying ages and genetic makeups using extremely strong magnets, far stronger than those that are typically used in an MRI machine.

Most of the machines in use across the US use 1.5 to 3 Tesla magnets. Tesla is the unit of measurement of the total magnetic field which passes through a given area and the higher the Tesla score, the stronger the magnet.

The researchers behind the latest scans employed a 9.4 Tesla magnet as well as a special set of gradient coils 100 times stronger than those in clinical MRI machines.

To help generate the brain image they used a high-performance computer equivalent to nearly 800 laptops all working at once to image one brain.

After they completed the MRI scan, scientists performed light sheet microscopy on the brain tissue sample, enabling them to label specific groups of cells in the brain and monitor them for changes or progression in neurodegenerative disease over time.

The images were also able to capture how Alzheimers disease breaks down neural networks.

The applications of the high-powered MRI technology could be wide-ranging, helping doctors diagnose cancers and neurological diseases before its too late.
Households are routinely being told they must pay to have faulty or broken smart meters replaced  despite energy providers promising the devices would help them save money.

In some cases, they are being quoted 50 just to replace the display unit that shows how much gas and electricity they are consuming in pounds and pence.

The postbag of This is Money's sister title, Money Mail, has been flooded with letters from scores of readers who, try as they may, simply cannot persuade their energy supplier to fix faulty smart meters.

Millions of the devices have now been rolled out to homes across the country. But 3.2 million homes have smart meters that do not function as they should, with some left in limbo for months, with no way of knowing how much gas and electricity they are using  until a bill lands.

Households are being quoted 50 to replace their smart meter display units that shows how much gas and electricity they are consuming in pounds and pence.

We have now sent a dossier of more than 50 complaints to regulator Ofgem and Smart Energy GB .

Ofgem says suppliers must replace faulty meters free of charge if they break within 12 months  after that, the energy watchdog says suppliers are free to decide any charges

Andy Cameron, 71, was told by British Gas he would have to cover the cost of a replacement display unit after it stopped working in January. British Gas did not specify how much this would be.

The father-of-two first got a smart meter just 18 months ago when energy prices started to soar.

But after a year of it functioning correctly, he began receiving texts and emails saying his smart meter was not sending signals or readings to British Gas.

When he contacted his supplier, the former procurement officer, who lives in Fife, Scotland, with his wife Anne, was told there was a six-month wait for repairs.

He says: I need to know how much energy Im using. Im trying to regulate our consumption but I cant. Its ridiculous.

British Gas says if a display unit breaks it will provide a new device to some customers, such as those who are vulnerable  but says some may need to pay for the unit to be replaced.

Eon customers say they are also being asked to pay for replacement display units.

Faulty meters: Some UK households have been left in limbo for months, with no way of knowing how much gas and electricity they are using until a bill lands

Judith Kennedy, 77, was quoted more than 50 by her supplier, Eon, to replace the display unit from her previous provider, Scottish Power.

The grandmother of six, from Radcliffe in Manchester, thought she would be sent a new device when she joined Eon more than a year ago, but has since learnt she would have to cover the cost. She says: I was an early adopter of smart meters so it is very disappointing to be asked to pay.

Eon says it considers each customers circumstances individually.

It will replace a broken display unit for free if it is within its 12-month warranty, after which point the customer may need to cover the cost.

An Ofgem spokesman says: We expect suppliers to proactively identify when a customers smart meter is not working properly and take steps to fix or replace the meter.

Faulty readings: Some 3.2 million UK homes have smart meters that dont function as they should

Where we have concerns about a suppliers performance, we will engage with them and take action as appropriate in accordance with our enforcement guidelines.

Consumer champion Martyn James says: Customers are now being charged up to 100 to replace a smart meter.

But unlike a boiler, you dont own your energy meters. They are the responsibility of the business. If the meter isnt working then the energy firm must change it.

Richard Hulme, 67, was told the ongoing problems with his smart meter were a result of an industry-wide problem.

The retired pet food company director had no problems with his smart meter until a year ago, when it would no longer display his daily energy usage.

He says: Suppliers were advertising smart meters as a way to measure your usage live, but I cannot monitor mine.

When he contacted his provider, Shell Energy, it couldnt give a fix date  and has not gone into further detail about what the industry problem is.

After our involvement, Shell has fixed his smart meter for free and Richard has been offered a gesture of goodwill.

Kevin Hill, 64, an EDF customer from Lincolnshire, has been given a three-month date to fix his smart meter display.

EDF also cites the mysterious industry-wide problem. In correspondence to Mr Hill, it said: Weve identified the problems youre experiencing are linked to known issues across the industry and cant be fixed with the tools currently available to suppliers.

a.cooke@dailymail.co.uk
Every week for the past 50 years, come rain or shine, Jennifer Wilcox has driven to Warwick to do her shopping.

The 76-year-old, who lives in Claverdon, five miles outside the town, says it caters perfectly for all her needs: her bank, chemist and optician are all within a short walk of each other.

But one week late last year, she found the payment machines in all the council car parks had disappeared.

The retired secretary discovered from the car park signs that she instead had to download an app on her mobile phone and enter her bank details and car reg number to pay to park  something she wasn't comfortable doing.

Driving us nuts: Pay-as-you-go parking machines are disappearing from British city streets at a rapid pace, with councils instructing drivers to pay via smartphone apps

Yet Warwick council  which started replacing all pay and display machines in district car parks with the RingGo app in November 2022  offers no alternative payment method.

As a result, Jennifer hasn't been back to Warwick since. Instead, she has been forced to drive a further five miles to Kenilworth to do her shopping.

'Kenilworth is hardly convenient but it has a Sainsbury's car park I can use for two hours for free,' she says.

'I have no choice. I don't want to hand over my bank details online. I can't tell the difference between what's a scam and what's genuine.'

Her anger and dismay at the rise of infuriating parking apps will strike a chord with millions across the country.

Pay-as-you-go parking machines are disappearing from British city streets at a rapid pace, with councils instructing drivers to pay via smartphone apps such as RingGo, PayByPhone and MiPermit.

It means drivers can no longer pay in cash and must have a smartphone with mobile data to be able to park.

Money Mail has received a deluge of letters from readers who say the switch to fiddly phone apps is blighting their lives.

The Mail on Sunday reported at the weekend that motorists are in some cases having to tap their mobile phones as many as 226 times to pay!

You must first download the app to your phone and figure out how to set up an account, then input your card details, and your vehicle details too. To park, you need to input the location's code number and duration of stay.

Many of those struggling are older drivers who say they can't navigate the apps and are giving up on trips out as a result.

Others are saying they aborted parking because they either didn't have a strong signal or their phone had run out of battery when they arrived at their destination.

Those who have called helplines trying to pay for parking say they have been met with automated voice recordings rather than customer services staff. Some have waited hours to speak to a human or not got through at all.

Apps are out: Jennifer Wilcox from Warwickshire doesnt want to hand over her bank details online

No option if you haven't got mobile data

Earlier this month, Kevin Coley and his wife were trying to find a parking space to visit their nephew in hospital at Leicester's Royal Infirmary.

Unable to get into the hospital's car park, they drove to one around the corner called Gateway Car Park. There, Kevin, 65, spotted a sign telling them to make the 2 parking payment online or over the phone.

The accountant does not have a smartphone and while his wife does, it doesn't have mobile data enabled. That meant they were unable to download the app.

Paying via a phone call was their only option. But the line repeatedly cut out. When they got through, their payment was unsuccessful. In frustration, they gave up.

Kevin says: 'My wife went through this process three times in total. It was sunny and difficult to see the phone screen. At this point we decided to park elsewhere.' The whole process took 25 minutes and at no point did either Kevin or his wife leave their car.

Yet just over a week ago, Kevin received a 60 penalty notice from parking company Euro Car Parks  which operates the Gateway Car Park  for the time the car was stationary.

'It's disgusting and I will be appealing,' Kevin says.

Driving away those without a smart phone

Charles Wicks has been visiting the Tern Cafe at Frensham Little Pond near Farnham in Surrey since 1946.

But he fears a recent trip in March to the medieval bishops' fishpond, part of the National Trust, will prove his last.

The 86-year-old pensioner, who owns a pay-as-you-go phone, says it was impossible for him to download the app he now needs to pay for parking at the cafe.

He says: 'I drove away and did not stay for coffees and cakes, so the cafe has lost my custom in the future. I've been going there since 1946 when I first helped the then owner, Mr Atherton, with his boats. We also used to fish and swim across the pond.'

Fined 250: Michelle OMalley from Doncaster thought she had used the parking app correctly

Another reader, Tim Baldwin, wrote to Money Mail saying he is no longer meeting friends in Bath after being driven out by the city's adoption of parking apps.

He and his pals  who are over 60  used to enjoy a long lunch in Bath followed by a nice afternoon in the city, and occasionally an evening trip to the theatre.

But they now struggle to find somewhere to park where they can pay with cash or card.

None of them uses a smart phone, so they've given up on Bath and go to country pubs with reserved parking instead.

'The council is waging a war on cars and is discriminating against those without smart phones,' Tim says. 'There are so many reasons why someone might not own one  so please don't treat us as second-class citizens and exclude us because of it.

'We've spent a lot of money in shops and businesses over the years in Bath, so I feel sorry that the council's lack of empathy towards its older visitors is affecting footfall in this way.'

He adds: 'Councils should be falling over themselves to ensure that their parking is accessible to all people rather than putting barriers up.'

Jackie Tench, 76, is another who suddenly discovered the car park she uses in her local town, Cirencester, in Gloucestershire, had gone fully digital, leaving her unable to pay.

Jackie, who lives in the town and is disabled, doesn't have a mobile phone. She says she cannot drive further afield as her disability means she can't travel long distances.

She says: 'I find it awful in today's world that I can't take part in many things because I don't have a smartphone. It should be a legal requirement that alternative ways of paying are available.'

Blocked: Some drivers say they aborted parking because they either didn't have a strong signal or their phone had run out of battery when they arrived at their destination

Hefty 250 fine for making a simple mistake

Some motorists say they are being charged hefty penalties for genuine mistakes when they thought they had successfully paid for parking.

However, parking firms are under no obligation to waive fines and can levy hefty penalties for late payment.

Michelle O'Malley, from Doncaster, says she has spent the past eight months disputing a parking fine. But she was forced to back down and hand over 250 when she was taken to court.

The former hairdresser, 56, says she thought she had paid 5 to park her car for two hours last July when she and her husband Richard stopped in Filey, near Scarborough, for a stroll along the beach.

'I downloaded the app and filled it all in, including my car registration and credit card details. It wasn't straightforward but we did it  or at least we thought we did,' she says.

Two weeks later, she received a 40 fine for failing to pay. The couple refused to pay it, as they believed it was unfair.

But the parking company issued a county court judgment and hiked the penalty to 250.

'We are in our 50s and we generally know what we are doing, but this was complicated,' she says.

'It's daylight robbery and it's disgusting that these companies get away with it.'

Consumer rights expert Scott Dixon says: 'People cannot speak to anyone if they are having issues as contact details for parking firms are often not readily available.

'Parking tickets are being issued automatically by cameras that do not take any mitigating factors into account.

'Private parking ticket operators use intimidating legalese jargon to force motorists to pay up. The threat of a fine escalating intimidates people of all ages.'

Disappearing: A growing number of councils are ripping out pay-as-you-go machines in favour of cashless smart phone apps

Cash is out and apps are in say councils

A growing number of councils are ripping out pay-as-you-go machines in favour of cashless smart phone apps.

Brighton and Hove city council will get rid of all its pay and display machines by May 31. A spokesman says this measure will save 220,000 this tax year, as the council will no longer have to maintain, repair and replace machines or collect cash.

For those without a credit or debit card, they can still pay by cash for on-street parking at certain vendors around the city.

However, Money Mail readers say staff at the designated shops are not always aware of this.

The London borough of Bromley removed all its machines by early April. Harrow had all its machines removed by January and Enfield plan to have them all removed this month. Other boroughs which have removed some machines are Richmond, Merton and Barking and Dagenham.

Edmund King, president at the AA, the leading motoring group, says the shift indicates that councils and parking operators think drivers serve them and not the other way around.

'These payment apps differ wherever you go and add more to the often extortionate cost of parking,' he says. 'Older motorists are often bamboozled by rules and machines that seem designed to catch them out.'

Mr King adds that research shows drivers just want simple ways to pay for parking: cash, card or contactless.

'If the cost of parking and the constant threat of being fined for the slightest mistake wasn't bad enough, obstacles thrown in the way of simple payment for tickets ramps up the stress,' he says.

Peter O'Driscoll, of parking app RingGo, says: 'We recognise that some motorists still prefer not to use an app, which is why we also offer SMS and phoneline payment options.

'We also understand that having multiple parking apps isn't the perfect solution, which is why we're working with the Department for Transport as well as local operators to create an 'Open-Market for parking', where drivers would be able to choose to pay via a payment machine or the app they want to use.'
The CBI continues to be engulfed in crisis after an insurance trade association was named as one of many members to quit the business lobby group, amid a sexual assault scandal.

The British Insurance Brokers Association, which represents 1,800 insurance brokers and intermediaries, confirmed last night it had ripped up its membership card after allegations about senior staff at the CBI emerged earlier this month.

The association  which confirmed it had left but would not comment further  was understood to have told the CBI it was leaving last week.

CBI president Brian McBride has admitted a handful of members had left but stressed the number was in single-digits, in an interview with The Financial Times.

Ousted: The CBI's former boss Tony Danker (pictured) was sacked after he apologised for his conduct which included sending a barrage of unwanted messages to a female colleague

McBride asked members, the public and the Government to judge us on what we do after the publication of an investigation into the second wave of allegations.

Engine maker Rolls-Royce is one of the big names that has said publicly it is awaiting the outcome of the probe before choosing whether to remain part of the group.

In a statement, the company dubbed the allegations deeply concerning.

The CBI, which represents 190,000 businesses across the country, is facing an existential crisis after the claims.

Without members subscriptions, the group will lose the funding it needs to hold high-profile conferences and maintain a public presence.

Former director general Tony Danker was sacked last week after he apologised for his conduct, which included sending a barrage of unwanted messages to a female colleague.

Meanwhile, City of London police are investigating separate claims which emerged last week that saw three members of staff suspended.

One woman said she was raped at a CBI staff party on a boat on the River Thames in 2019. There were also claims of widespread cocaine use.

The CBI has tried to address the damage by replacing Danker with Rain Newton-Smith, its former chief economist.

But one senior industry figure told the Mail: I dont see they have sorted anything.

They have fired their director general without due process and hired a replacement likewise  a replacement who was a senior leader when the alleged incidents took place.
Barclays backing of Jes Staley despite his links with the paedophile Jeffrey Epstein raises questions about the boards judgment, according to a leading shareholder advisory body.

Institutional Shareholder Services (ISS) said the banks board would face scrutiny over its support of the former chief executive given the disturbing nature of the charges against Epstein.

However, it stopped short of calling on investors to stage a revolt at next months AGM.

Epstein was a client of Staleys when the latter was a senior executive at US bank JP Morgan.

Questions: Institutional Shareholder Services said the bank's board would face scrutiny over its support of former chief exec Staley (pictured)

The disgraced financier was found dead in 2019 while awaiting trial on abuse and trafficking charges. By then, Staley had become boss of Barclays.

The bank backed him in 2020 after City regulators launched a probe, saying he retains the full confidence of the board.

But Staley quit in 2021 following preliminary findings by the regulators though Barclays said it was disappointed at this outcome.

He has since been named in a series of lawsuits centring on Epsteins behaviour.

ISS said ahead of the meeting: The decision to support Staley between the death of Epstein and Staleys resignation will draw scrutiny.

The group said there were questions over the judgment exercised.
Champion swimmer Michael Klim has won a $152,000 payout after he was suddenly sacked by the skincare business he founded.

Klim, 45, sued Milk & Co in the Federal Court claiming unpaid salary, annual and long service leave, and three months pay in lieu of notice.

The two-time Olympic gold medalist started the company in 2006, branding men's products with his name, and women's as Milk - his last name spelled backwards.

He sold the business in 2017 to a consortium of Chinese businessmen and was retained as managing director on a $200,000-a-year salary.

However, Klim was abruptly sacked on February 26, 2021 - which the lawsuit claimed caused him 'shock, distress, and humiliation'.

Olympic swimmer Michael Klim (pictured with his girlfriend Michelle Owen) has won his $152,000 lawsuit against his skincare company after he was unceremoniously sacked

Klim, 45, sued Milk & Co in the Federal Court claiming unpaid salary, annual and long service leave, and three months pay in lieu of notice

Klim was in 2020 diagnosed with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy, a rare auto-immune disorder in the arms and legs, that prevented him from leaving Bali, where he has lived for many years.

He his since then tried in vain to recover $152,050.76 in entitlements, including $16,859.85 in salary, $31,801.78 in annual leave, $37,980.33 in long service leave, and $50,000 for three months pay in lieu of notice.

But less than four weeks after the breach of contract writ was filed on March 16, the case was dropped through a notice to the court.

His lawyer John Gdanski confirmed to Daily Mail Australia that Klim was paid what he demanded in the lawsuit.

The statement of claim revealed Klim's contract reimbursed him up to $30,000 a year to commute between Australia and Bali.

Unrelated court documents revealed the Chinese buyers acquired the company as part of a plan to expand their ventures into Asia.

Chinese customers are huge buyers of Australian health products, which many believe to be the highest quality on the market.

The statement of claim revealed Klim's contract reimbursed him up to $30,000 a year to commute between Australia and Bali (pictured there with Ms Owen)

Klim started the company in 2006, branding men's products with his name (pictured), and women's as Milk - his last name spelled backwards

Women's products were branded Milk, which is is name spelled backwards

However, the company disintegrated within a few years and its website no longer works and its social media profiles not updated since last year.

Instead, there are comments from frustrated customers wondering why the company's products were always out of stock and no one ever replied to them.

A rare reply to an Instagram comment last February blamed Covid outbreaks for products being unavailable.

'We have to postpone our production since 2020. We are now aiming to launch an upgraded baby line including baby bath wash, baby shampoo and conditioner, baby moisturiser and baby recovery cream in the late 2022/early 2023,' it wrote.

Company documents listed Yan Zeng as the sole director since 2019, and Mengyao Ling, Jie Cai, Xin He, and Hai Zhang as previous directors.

A holding company named Aubrands Pty Ltd was set up weeks before the acquisition as a means of buying Milk as a subsidiary.

Klim in his office in a promotional photo while he was still with the company

Social media advertising for Klim's company used him as its chief marketing tool

Milk's social media profiles haven't been updated since last year and are filled with comments from frustrated customers wondering why the company's products were always out of stock and no one ever replied to them

Yan Zeng was the only director since it was set up and shares are held mostly by business entities he controls.

Former shareholders include past directors of Milk & Co Pty Ltd.

Other court documents detailed legal and financial disputes between the former directors, which led to some of them being ousted.

Aubrands was also sued by the Wizard Pharmacy chain in Perth in 2020, and Tracktion Sales & Marketing in Melbourne in 2018.

The father-of-three revealed last year his mobility was so affected by CIDP that he could no longer leave Bali and make trips to Australia as he previously did several times a year for both work and treatment.

'I have pulled my focus to the swim academy here in Bali and... we run a bunch of camps and clinics,' he said on a podcast last October.

'I have sort of simplified my lifestyle just from that point of view. I mean I did use to do 20 return trips to Australia a year for work and whatever.

'But for now it's just physically... physically actually impossible because (for) myself getting around is not simple.'

Klim was in 2021 also diagnosed with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy, a rare auto-immune disorder in the arms and legs

Klim last year presented his departure from his company as voluntary and related to his health, as opposed to being suddenly sacked by the new owners

Klim promotes the company's products by trading on his image as an Olympic swimmer

Klim at the time presented his departure from his company as voluntary and related to his health, as opposed to being suddenly sacked by the new owners.

'Look it has definitely put a stress on our finances and security because there is a level of investment for me,' he said.

'I stepped back from my role with Milk & Co because of the demand it had on me physically, flying back and forth and the stress as well.

'I was very hands on doing sales and marketing. (But) unless I could give myself one hundred percent I didn't want to do it.

'So there's definitely a couple of things I have been doing for the past 13 years that I had had to pull back a lot and with that is also a level of income.'
The girl told her father who furiously confronted Stermon and reported him to cops, who began investigating the claims at the time of his death on December 8

Law enforcement sources told DailyMail.com the influential GOP donor lured the teen to his office with Taylor Swift concert tickets and asked to see her breasts

The political donor behind Ron DeSantis's rapid rise to prominence took his own life after he was accused of having an inappropriate relationship with an underaged teen, a DailyMail.com investigation has revealed.

Kent Stermon's suicide in December came shortly after the girl's father turned down a 'five-figure sum' in a hush-money deal and reported him to the police instead, we have learned.

The prominent DeSantis ally and GOP donor, who was based in Jacksonville, Florida, was accused of having an inappropriate relationship with the girl, for whom he obtained highly sought-after Taylor Swift concert tickets which he said he'd give her if she sent him a photo of her breasts.

Kent Stermon pictured with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. A DailyMail.com investigation found the political donor was facing allegations of sexual misconduct involving a minor when he died by suicide on December 8

Evidence photos included in the Atlantic Beach Police incident report obtained by DailyMail.com reveal the scene where the DeSantis supporter was found after he shot himself dead

Stermon alluded to the investigation and the looming fallout in a handwritten note to his sister and another individual whose name was redacted, saying he loved them 'both too much to put you through this'

After the girl reluctantly complied, Stermon insisted she collect the tickets at his office  but when she turned up he refused to let her leave until she 'showed him the real thing,' law enforcement sources say.

The teenager balked at the idea and he eventually let her go.

She later told her boyfriend and her father about the encounter, prompting her dad to furiously confront Stermon at an arranged meeting at a diner in Atlantic Beach, according to sources.

It was there that Stermon offered him the five-figure sum to keep quiet, but the dad refused.

Not too long after on December 8, Stermon killed himself just as Jacksonville police were launching their probe into the girl's claims.

DeSantis nominated Stermon to Florida's board of governors, the body which oversees the state's university system, in 2019

DailyMail.com understands that while the girl is now a legal adult, those investigations uncovered allegations that Stermon had had an inappropriate relationship with the girl when she was a minor.

Jacksonville Sheriff's Office has repeatedly refused to comment on the investigation when contacted by DailyMail.com saying the probe is ongoing.

But it did refer to 'the victim', indicating the probe is focused on one person's allegations.

This ties in with our own inquiries about a man with a reputation for reveling in using the power he had created for himself.

'To me, Stermon killing himself simply over one incident with an adult doesn't pass the litmus test,' one law enforcement source told DailyMail.com. 'There's more to it.

'Very possibly it was the start of the rope that would unravel. It is the possibility of exposing what might have happened when the girl was a minor in their acquaintance.'

The source added: 'At worst what happened recently was false imprisonment and a request to look at her breasts. That's not enough.

Stermon's note was found face down alongside a bullet casing in the seat of his black pickup truck

The handgun recovered at the scene of Stermon's suicide. The 50-year-old shot himself in the right temple, according to police reports

Stermon had a tight relationship with the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office (JSO) which provided him with a swipe badge to access facilities and areas within buildings, which he used on more than 200 days since 2017, records show.

'After all, he could have claimed, hey, we're both adults. She flirted with me, I flirted with her, she consented to be in my office.

'But when she was younger  that's the key to the investigation.

'As a convicted sexual predator, he would have been looking at 15 to 20 years. And for someone who lived in a multi-million-dollar home in an exclusive gated community, that is some downfall.'

Stermon's attorney David Barksdale did not return calls for comment.

Stermon was an immensely powerful behind-the-scenes figure in DeSantis's rise, having had a major impact in catapulting him to the Governor's Mansion in Tallahassee in 2018.

The following year DeSantis appointed his friend to the Board of Governors which is responsible for Florida's public university system.

DeSantis also put him on his transition team and for a while DeSantis rented a condo co-owned by Stermon, according to Politico.

Now DeSantis, 44, is seen as the most likely candidate to derail Donald Trump's bid for the Republican presidential nomination in 2024.

He is widely expected to run, but he has not yet officially announced.

'Kent was very influential,' Florida politics reporter A.G. Gancarski told First Coast News after his death.

'You wouldn't have Ron DeSantis as governor without Kent Stermon,

'He was big with everything in the local party and the state party.'

Stermon was also in failing health at the time of his death. He had suffered a stroke just three days earlier and his heart was constantly monitored remotely by the Mayo Clinic.

Stermon, who was known as a 'cop groupie' is pictured with former Jacksonville Sheriff Mike Williams after he was named 'Citizen of the Year' in 2016. He had an access key for the sheriff's office HQ despite not working there

According to law enforcement sources, Stermon had allegedly obtained hard-to-get tickets to a concert on Taylor Swift's Eras tour in exchange for a photo of her breasts

His wife Christie discovered he was dead when the clinic called her to say the monitor had stopped.

On the day of his death Christie asked him if he wanted to join her on a trip to a pet store, but he said he wanted to rest.

Shortly after, he texted his daughter telling her he was going out to get gas, but instead drove seven miles to a post office in Atlantic Beach, Florida, where he shot himself in his gray 2021 Dodge Ram truck in the parking lot in the early evening.

The location has led to speculation that he may have mailed an item crucial to his case.

After his death, the Governor's office released a statement saying DeSantis and his wife Casey, a former Jacksonville TV reporter, 'were shocked and saddened to hear of Kent's passing, and their prayers are with his family during this difficult time.'

We can also reveal that Stermon shot himself in the right temple with a semi-automatic handgun  and left a poignant hand-written note on lined paper to 'Sis' and another person, whose name has been redacted by Atlantic Beach Police in incident reports and photos exclusively obtained by DailyMail.com.

It read: 'I love you both too much to put you through this. You are better w/o me!' Then he added mysteriously: 'Go find your version of Jackson Short & be happy!'

Although the words Jackson Short are redacted on a photograph of the note obtained by DailyMail.com through the Freedom of Information Act, his name is not blacked out from the accompanying police incident report.

Jackson Short is chief investigator for the State's Attorney's Office for the Fourth Judicial Circuit, a role he took over in January this year.

Previously he was director of investigations and homeland security at Jacksonville Sheriff's Office, where Stermon controversially had almost unfettered access after being issued with a swipe card.

At the time of Stermon's death, a statement from DeSantis's office said the governor was unaware of the investigation and added: 'The Governor and First Lady were shocked and saddened to hear of Kent's passing, and their prayers (and our entire office's prayers) are with his family during this difficult time'

The note was on one of three pieces of paper found by officers on the passenger seat of the truck  and with a bullet fragment sitting on them. One was blank and another message was written on the other, but the words have been redacted in the police report. The ones with messages were facing down.

A cell phone in the vehicle was later handed over to JSO 'as evidence in an ongoing investigation', added the Atlantic Beach Police paperwork in a clear reference to the sexual misconduct probe the agency had launched.

Atlantic Beach Police incident photos show Stermon slumped in the driver's seat, his head on his chest and his right arm resting on the center console. He was wearing a light blue t-shirt and gray sweat pants.

Stermon, president of Total Military Management logistics company in Jacksonville, was known around the town as a 'cop groupie'.

He was given the swipe badge by Jacksonville Sheriff's Office (JSO) to access facilities and areas within buildings, which he used on more than 200 days since 2017, records show.

The businessman was one of nine members of a group known as the Sheriff's Circle, who all had similar access swipe cards.

These were mainly given to civilians who had regular business with the sheriff's office, such as vendors.

He was first given badge access to Jacksonville police buildings in 2013 when the sheriff was John Rutherford, who is now Republican member of the United States House of Representatives for Florida's 4th Congressional District.

The congressman is reported to have received $16,800 from Stermon's company.

However, none of the other Sheriff's Circle members used their access with anything approaching the regularity of Stermon, who last swiped his card on November 15, 2022. One member used his just three times.

'It was common knowledge to not only myself but to many employees that Mr. Stermon had high-level security access privileges to JSO facilities for years,' former assistant chief Lakesha Burton told First Coast News.

'He made his heavy involvement in the inner workings and politics of the agency well known to all ranks.'

Stermon, whose donations to DeSantis include $53,000 from his political action committee and $6,000 of his own cash, almost immediately had his JSO badge access disabled once the probe into the girl's allegations began.

On December 8, Stermon texted his daughter to say he was going out to get gas, but instead drove seven miles to a post office in Atlantic Beach, Florida, where he shot himself in his truck in the parking lot

However, he still carried the badge with him, we can reveal. It was photographed by cops among other belongings in his truck. There was also a Florida Highway Patrol advisory council card with his name and photo.

A source told DailyMail.com: 'I believe this is how it probably played out after the sexual misconduct allegation was made.

'The JSO drafted a warrant or probable cause affidavit for an interview, saying something like we need you to come in  the last thing you want is a SWAT team at your door and you being led away in handcuffs in front of your neighbors.

'That is what mostly happens with a prominent individual.

'I don't know if he did go in for an interview. But when they made that call, he may have thought to himself, that he knows what he did. In his mind he knows what he's done over time.

'And he knows that he doesn't know what the JSO know.'

Police called to the suicide scene by worried Post Office workers had to smash a window with an axe to get into the locked truck, the police reports reveal. Detective Carl Johnston wrote: 'Once the driver's door was opened no gun was immediately seen in plain view but there was a pool of blood on the floorboard.'

The pistol was found lodged between the driver's seat and the center console. Another firearm was found inside the console.

Atlantic Beach Police Commander Tiffany Layson said in her report obtained by DailyMail.com that she went to the Stermon home the day after he shot himself to speak to his widow.

'Ms Stermon had some questions surrounding her husband's death, however she did not wish to answer any questions or offer additional information as to what was going on with Stermon prior to his death,' she wrote. The next sentence was redacted.
An art and design school principal who says she was sacked by Instagram while on holiday in Europe is seeking almost $900,000 in compensation from her former employer.

Karen Webster claims she was dismissed by LCI Melbourne for taking paid annual leave during 'the most important term of the year' after being told to apply for time off.

She is suing her former employer in the Federal Circuit and Family Court, seeking $786,051 in lost earnings and $100,000 for humiliation, distress and hurt.

Ms Webster has held senior academic positions at universities including RMIT and was previously director of the L'Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival.

Before her teaching career, Ms Webster was a designer for more than a decade and in 2012 was inducted into the Victorian capital's Fashion Hall of Fame.

An art school principal who says she was sacked via an Instagram message while on holiday in Europe is seeking almost $900,000 in compensation. Karen Webster (above) claims she was dismissed by LCI Melbourne for taking paid annual leave after being told to apply for time off

Karen Webster says her application for leave from January 16 to February 17 this year was approved by her bosses. From January 19 to February her Instagram account was filled with pictures of her travels in Paris, Rome, Milan, Florence and Venice (above)

Ms Webster began as dean and principal of LCI Melbourne in Collingwood in 2019 under a five-year contract and in June 2022 was told she had amassed an excess of annual leave entitlements.

LCI Melbourne's chief financial officer Robin Jain allegedly told Ms Webster the unused leave was a financial liability for the business and asked her to use some up.

Ms Webster says she applied in August to take leave between January 16 and February 17 this year, according to documents seen by Daily Mail Australia.

In her claim she states that request was approved by Professor Warren Bebbington, the chair of LCI Melbourne's board of directors.

Ms Webster headed off on holiday and from January 19 to February 7 her Instagram account was filled with glorious pictures of her travels to Rome, Milan, Venice, Florence and Paris.

The St Kilda woman alleges LCI Melbourne's director Claude Marchand, who is also named as a respondent, contacted her via a direct message on Instagram on February 7.

Mr Marchand allegedly told Ms Webster she had taken her leave while she was needed at the academy and he had been instructed to terminate her employment.

Ms Webster has held senior academic positions at universities including RMIT and was previously director of the L'Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival. She was inducted into Fashion Hall of Fame in Melbourne in 2012 and is pictured in Venice in January during her travels

LCI Melbourne's first academic term this year started on February 13 and runs until June 5, according to its website.

'You are not working at RMIT,' Mr Marchand allegedly wrote. 'You are working for a family business.

'Why pay that salary if you are in Europe while our teachers and students are deputing the most important term of the year?

'Wow. Big misunderstanding between us about role and responsibilities of a Dean and Principal.

'I gave instructions to cut accesses an deal with termination effective today (aka date I realized). We'll deal with that when you are back in Australia.'

Later the same day Ms Webster received written notification she had been terminated with immediate effect, court documents state.

Professor Bebbington sent an email to LCI Melbourne's board of directors on February 7 which according to Ms Webster's claim read in part: 'I write to advise that our parent company LCI Education Network has deemed the employment of Karen Webster as our Dean and Principal in Melbourne has come to an end, with immediate effect.'

'As such, we need to give effect to this decision. She will be paid her entitlements under the termination provisions of her contract.'

Ms Webster alleges LCI Melbourne's director Claude Marchand contacted her via a direct message on Instagram on February 7 to inform her she was being sacked. 'You are not working at RMIT,' Mr Marchand allegedly wrote. 'You are working for a family business'

LCI Melbourne's director Claude Marchand (above), who is also named as a respondent in Ms Webster's action, allegedly told Ms Webster she had taken her leave while she was needed at the school and he had been instructed to terminate her employment

LCI Melbourne is part of the the global LCI Education Network and was previously called the Australian Academy of Design.

It is a subsidiary of College Lassalle International, a company registered in Canada with campuses in Barcelona, Indonesia, Morocco, Vancouver and Montreal.

Mr Marchand is chief executive officer of College Lasalle International and the LCI Education Network, which according to its website employs 2,000 staff to teach more than 20,000 students worldwide.

Ms Webster claims LCI Melbourne's conduct breached the Fair Work Act and is seeking compensation and a pecuniary penalty rather than reinstatement.

She says termination of her employment was an unlawful adverse action after she exercised her workplace right to take annual leave the school had agreed upon.

Her claim includes the loss of an opportunity to sign a new five-year contract and the loss of an entitlement to shares.

Maurice Blackburn Lawyers, the workplace law and compensation specialists, declined to comment. LCI Melbourne has been contacted for comment.
A woman arrested during a massive police raid on a notorious block of public housing flats is at the centre of a bitter love triangle feud over a married man.

Dozens of heavily-armed NSW Police officers descended on the public housing flats, known locally as the 'Ice Block', on Charles Street in Liverpool, in Sydney's south-west, just after 2am on Monday.

Residents had reported hearing a gunshot on the premises.

Kimberley Hunter, 29, was arrested about 2.15am after being found inside an allegedly stolen Pantech freight truck that was parked out the front of the apartment complex. She was also wanted for three outstanding warrants.

Kane Gordon, 49, was also charged with two counts of possessing a firearm without a license. Both were refused bail by police and were expected to face court on Tuesday.

It was just the latest development in Hunter's tumultuous life, with a war of words raging on Facebook over the past week after her now ex-boyfriend Kurt Alderton re-united with his once estranged wife of 26 years, Robyn.

Kimberley Hunter, 29, (pictured) has been charged after allegedly stealing a Pantech truck

Kane Gordon, 49, has also been charged with allegedly possessing two guns without a licence after police raided his Liverpool public housing unit on Monday

Hunter and Alderton are pictured together in one of her loved-up social media posts from January

Just six days ago, Hunter sparked a heated Facebook exchange when she posted a meme which bluntly said: 'I don't break up happy homes, but if that door cracked.'

Hunter tagged Robyn Alderton in the provocative post - sparking a torrent of fiery online debate between the pair and their friends.

The post ignited a blizzard of accusations, most of which cannot be published for legal reasons.

They included attacks on various parties' appearances, and claim and counter-claims about topics such as body hygiene.

It was a far cry from social media posts of her happy relationship with Kurt Alderton from earlier this year - with Hunter sharing a series of photos alongside him enjoying car trips, days out at the beach, and laying next to each other in bed.

Kurt has since rekindled his relationship with his wife Robyn (pictured together on their wedding day)

A bitter feud erupted online last week between Hunter and Ms Alderton (pictured)

Hunter shared a the above meme on Facebook several days ago and tagged her ex-boyfriend's wife

But by March, Ms Alderton had announced she and her husband were back together after briefly parting ways: 'Marriage has its highs and lows, so Kurt and I are back together to give it another go,' she wrote.

'Its hard to walk away from 26 years together and from someone (you) couldnt see yourself without.

'But grass isnt always greener on the other side and sometimes we have to learn that the hard way!'

Hunter has gone silent online since she was charged in the early hours of Tuesday morning over the incident at the public housing flats.

One neighbour said the blonde brick units used to be a nice place to live until they were turned into public housing a few years ago

One neighbour claimed: 'There's lots of people in these blocks doing drugs and selling drugs'

Inside the 'Ice Block'

Residents described noisy parties being held at the unit block, which sits near common areas that are strewn with discarded trolleys and dumped garbage.

The complex has a bloody past: a man aged in his 20s was shot in the driveway of the complex late last year.

Jin Shin, who lives next door to the unit police raided on Monday, said a man and woman moved into the apartment several months ago.

Ever since, Mr Shin said he had struggled to go to sleep due to the incessant music blasting out of the place.

'There were lots of parties, 20 people constantly coming and going,' Mr Shin said.

'The police were always over there knocking on their door.'

A woman who lives in a nearby block said her neighbour heard a loud bang during the early hours of the morning.

Heavily-armed tactical police officers arrived on Charles Street in Liverpool in the early hours of Monday morning after residents reported hearing a gunshot

The unit block has been cordoned-off from the public, with specialist officers and police negotiators also called to the scene. Police are pictured at the complex on Monday morning

She said the units used to be a nice place to live until they were turned into public housing a few years ago.

Another resident, who wished not to be named, said two of the apartment blocks in the housing complex were notoriously associated with ice and heroin use.

Daily Mail Australia does not suggest that any of the residents referred to in this article use or sell drugs.

Mr Shin said there had been a shooting in the driveway just six months ago.

'The guy was shot in the legs, he ran into our building bleeding and collapsed on the ground,' he said.

On that occasion a man aged in his 20s was shot about 6.20am on October 12 and taken to Liverpool Hospital.

Daily Mail Australia does not suggest the October 2022 shooting is related to the current police operation.

The unit block has been cordoned-off from the public, with specialist officers and police negotiators also called to the scene.

Jin Shin, who lives next door, said a man and woman moved into the unit police raided on Monday morning several months ago. Mr Shin is pictured

Detectives were seen searching a white truck in the driveway on Monday morning

The five people in custody have been taken to Liverpool police station, with police vehicles seen leaving the street about 5.40am.

NSW Police said a crime scene warrant would be executed with detectives to continue to investigate.

Detectives were seen searching a white truck parked in the driveway on Monday morning.

The vehicle was later marked with a 'forensic evidence' sticker before it was towed away from the scene.

Anyone with information has been urged to contact Liverpool police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Queensland Rail has been charged with safety breaches after an investigation into a fatal train crash two years ago.

Chris O'Brien, from Margate, north of Brisbane, was killed when the locomotive he was driving during a training session collided with a coal train at Westwood, near Rockhampton in far north Queensland on June 18, 2021.

Two other rail safety workers were also injured in the crash.

The Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator (ONRSR) has filed three charges against Queensland Rail following an investigation into the fatal train crash.

It faces fines totalling up to $4.5million for the alleged offences.

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau published its preliminary findings into its investigation in September 2021, where it analysed all recorded data from the locomotive's engine data logger and other sources.

Margate man Chris O'Brien (pictured) was killed in a train incident near Rockhampton in 2021

The report found the Queensland Rail locomotive, which was being used for driver tuition at the time, was travelling westbound and being operated in reverse.

The Aurizon-operated coal train was stationary at the Westwood loop, about 45.05km from Rockhampton, when the locomotive struck it at 11.26am.

'The light engine (locomotive) and five wagons of the coal train were significantly damaged,' the report stated.

'Of the light engine's three occupants, one sustained minor injuries, one was seriously injured and one was fatally injured.

'The two drivers of the coal train were uninjured.'

The report said Mr O'Brien had been qualified for about four months and his co-driver was qualified for six months.

Their tutor, who was the third person on-board, had nine years' experience with another company and three with Queensland Rail and had worked as a qualified instructor for five years.

ONRSR will allege Queensland Rail failed to comply with its safety duties as an accredited rail transport operator under Rail Safety National Law (RNSL).

'The matter is being pursued in the interests of rail safety as part of our role to enforce compliance with the RSNL, and in the public interest to provide for the safe carrying out of railway operations and promoting public confidence in rail operations,' ONRSR said.

Under Rail Safety National Law the maximum penalty applicable to a rail transport operator for breaches of this kind is $1.5 million per offence.

The matter is expected to be mentioned in a Brisbane court in June.

Emergency crews were called to the train collision at Westwood in June 2021 (pictured)

A spokesman for Queensland Rail said they 'remain deeply saddened' by this incident and the loss of a colleague.

'We continue to support the family of the deceased as well as the other two drivers and their families,' said the spokesman. 'At Queensland Rail safety is paramount.

'We remain committed to operate a safe railway and to learn from this incident and do all that we can to prevent it from happening again - we want to ensure that when our people come to work, they work safe and go home safe.'

She said Queensland Rail has implemented a comprehensive program to improve safety on the network since the incident, including 'restrictions into our Safety and Environment Management System for all operators on the QR Network, and Signals Passed at Danger prevention activities.

'We have worked cooperatively with the National Rail Safety Regulator and other authorities to improve rail safety and will continue to do so.'

Queensland Rail said they will not contest the prosecution.
The anti-monarchist plot to disrupt King Charles's Coronation next month can be revealed by MailOnline today.

Republic, a group which has openly called for the abolition of the monarchy and to replace it with an elected head of state, is planning a demonstration along The Mall on May 6.

On their website, the protesters are calling on thousands to don yellow T-shirts and wave placards reading 'Not My King' at a gathering in Trafalgar Square from 6am, before moving to the procession route between Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey later that morning.

The group is led by Graham Smith, an activist who has accused the BBC of breaching impartiality in its coverage of the Royal Family.

Protests against the Coronation are being planned across the UK. In Cardiff, the Not My King protest, organised by Campaign for a Welsh Republic, plans to meet at the Aneurin Bevan statue at 12.30pm, to march to Bute Park. The demonstration will be followed by what the group describes as a 'BIG REPUBLICAN LUNCH'.

In Scotland, a march for independence is planned to run concurrently with the Coronation in Glasgow. A simultaneous protest will be held in Edinburgh at the National Monument of Scotland, with more than 250 people already saying they are interested in going.

Republic has issued this map to reveal where it will be demonstrating in London on May 6

Republic has produced this publicity image to encourage people to join its protest on May 6

The republican group claims to have the support of more than 80,000 people

Meet three of the team involved in Republic GRAHAM SMITH, chief executive Graham Smith, 48, is possibly the most well-known republican in Britain, and he has campaigned against the monarchy for 20 years. His group, Republic, was set up in 1983 but has gained momentum and supporters in recent years after being formally set up as a limited company in 2006. He recently labelled King Charles as 'just a bloke in a suit who's spending lots of our money' but admitted heckling the Queen 'wouldn't have gone down well'. The Daily Beast once described Mr Smith as 'the most successful British republican since Oliver Cromwell'. GULLY BUJAK, protest organiser Gully Bujak is an experienced climate change protest organiser who has been convicted of criminal acts during Extinction Rebellion eco protests. She is also a privately-educated model and actress and former junior head girl at Stover School in Devon  where her father used to be headmaster. BEN CLINTON Ben Clinton is campaign co-ordinator for 'Labour for a Republic', a republican pressure group within the Labour Party. He has previously written for the Morning Star and is a councillor on the parish council in Peasmarsh, East Sussex. He also spoke in favour of proportional representation at the Labour Party conference in 2021. Advertisement

Republic's website states: 'On Saturday 6th May the eyes of the world will be on the Coronation. This is the moment we make our objection loud, visible and impossible to ignore.

'Pledge to add your voice to the call for a republic.'

Potential anti-monarchist demonstrators are instructed to create a 'sea of yellow' with 14.99 branded T-shirts and placards reading 'Not My King'. A yellow unisex hoodie is available for 41.99.

The demonstrators plan to protest near the King Charles I statue in the middle of the Trafalgar Square roundabout.

Mr Smith is the author of a new book, Abolish The Monarchy, which will be published in early June.

SNP leader and First Minister Hamza Yousaf said during the recent leadership contest that Scotland could switch to an elected head of state 'within the first five years' of independence.

He added during a discussion about Prince Edward's recent promotion to Duke of Edinburgh that: 'I view myself as a citizen first and foremost, not a slave.'

Speaking last month, Mr Smith said that Charles should be criticised like any other politician.

But in an attempt to explain why the group was organising more protests against the King than his late mother, he admitted: 'The Queen enjoyed deference and it put people off criticising her directly. We were aware heckling her wouldn't go down well.'

Mr Smith previously told MailOnline: 'Charles is a very different person. He just inherited the throne and inheritance is an issue.

'We think now is the right moment for us to push our message. We did protest the Queen, such as at the 2012 [Diamond] Jubilee.

'Other people certainly had a greater level of respect for the Queen. The Queen enjoyed deference and it put people off criticising her directly. We were aware heckling her wouldn't go down well.

'But everything has changed, it's a very different monarchy. This has changed the nature of the campaign.'

The group believe hereditary public office goes against every democratic principle and ultimately want to abolish the monarchy.

Instead, they want a head of state that is chosen by the public and keeps politicians in check.

Mr Smith continued: 'If you think politicians are fair game for heckling and protests, you should see Charles in the same way. The Queen felt like the real deal. Charles is just a bloke in a suit who's spending lots of our money.

'He should be treated like a politician. Heads of state should be fair game for criticism.'

Republic and the Metropolitan Police were contacted by MailOnline for comment yesterday.

Graham Smith, a member of a Republic, speaks during a protest prior to the Commonwealth Service outside Westminster Abbey in London on March 13

Ben Clinton, campaign coordinator for a Republic, attends a protest outside Westminster Abbey on March 13
The city's black mayor and police chief have now both spoken out

Antioch, California police officers called black people 'gorillas' and 'monkeys' according to documents released in an investigation by the FBI

An FBI investigation into more than a dozen police officers in one Northern California community revealed texts that referred to black people as circus monkeys and gorillas.

Documents released by investigators show 17 officers in Antioch sending or receiving racist messages including threats of violence against the city's own mayor, Lamar Thorpe, who is black.

Antioch Officer John Ramirez wrote in a text in June 2020 as protests were erupting over the death of George Floyd: 'I'll buy someone a prime rib dinner at House of prim rib to 40 that mfr [motherf****r, directed to Thorpe] during the protest today.'

The phrase 'to 40' someone is slang for using a handgun with a 40-millimeter launcher which shoots a less lethal ammunition at a person.

Other texts included in the documents showed racist memes, admissions that they would arrest individuals for 'driving while black' and make up confessions, as well as disturbing general threats.

In one text from April 2020, Police Sgt. Josh Evans texted Officer Morteza Amiri, 'I'll bury that [N-word] in my fields.' He followed up with a second text, writing: 'And yes....it was a hard R on purpose.'

Antioch's Police Chief Steven Ford, who is also black, called the texts 'racially abhorrent' while Thorpe stormed out of a meeting last week after calling out one community member who he believed was trying to justify he messages.

Antioch Police Department Officer Morteza Amiri (left) and Officer Eric Rombough (right) are two of the officers cited in the legal investigation by the FBI

An FBI investigation into more than a dozen police officers in one Northern California community revealed texts where that referred to black people as circus monkeys, including 'gorillas' and 'monkeys'

Documents released show 17 officers in Antioch engaging in vile and racist rhetoric including threats of violence against the city's own mayor, Lamar Thorpe, who is black

Antioch's Police Chief Steven Ford (pictured) called the texts 'racially abhorrent'

'I goal kicked his head' one of the officers wrote in a message to a redacted individual

'Sooo many black people,' Officer Eric Rombough wrote. 'I feel like I'm at the zoo'

News of the texting scandal first broke in early April when FBI and Contra Costa County district attorney's office officials released a heavily redacted 21 page document outlining texts.

The pages name the following 17 officers as having sent or received messages:

Sergeant Josh Evans

Sergeant Rick Hoffman (President of the Antioch Police Officers Association)

Officer Eric Rombough

Detective Robert Gerber

Officer Jonathan Adams

Officer Morteza Amiri

Officer Scott Duggar

Officer Aaron Hughes

Officer Tom Smith

Officer Brock Marcotte

Officer Timothy Manly Williams

Officer Brayton Milner

Officer Calvin Prieto

Officer John Ramirez

Officer Andrea Rodriguez

Officer Kyle Smith

Officer Devon Wenger

According to investigators, several officers would consistently use the n-word, using phrases such as '#Donkey (n-word),' '#Panhandling (n-word),' and 'dead (n-word).'

In one alleged text, an officer stated that the n-word is also used frequently around the Antioch Police Department's office, 'even in group messages with supervisors and IA (internal affairs) sergeants' without repercussions.

Some of the most disturbing messages dehumanize black residents, referring to them as animals.

'Bro the circus is in town but it seems they only brought monkeys,' Officer Hughes wrote in a message sent on May 4, 2020, according to the FBI documents. It's unclear what instance he was referring to.

When discussing protests in Los Angeles just two days after George Floyd was killed by a Minneapolis police officer, Amiri said they were being held 'For the gorilla that died.'

The next month, Officer Rombough shared a meme mocking Floyd's murder.

In April 2021, Rombough allegedly sent messages to a redacted individual, describing a situation in which he used brutality to subdue a murder suspect.

'We managed to set up a perimeter and he got his a** whooped in the back yard and I field goal kicked his head.'

When the other person responded that they thought that 'was a no no,' Rombrough wrote back: 'No we can do that just no chokes.'

Rombough, throughout the initial 21 page document and the follow up 14 page document, referred to black people as animals no less than five times.

On June 7, 2021, he allegedly referred to black women as 'water buffalo' and sent texts saying 'so we are harassing the gorillas,' 'we just ran down a monkey at sycamore,' and 'bottom line it doesn't matter some gorilla killed another gorilla.'

Officers would often use pictures and memes that addressed black people as gorillas

In one text from April 2020, Police Sgt. Josh Evans texted Officer Morteza Amiri, 'I'll bury that [N-word] in my fields.' He followed up with a second text, writing: 'And yes....it was a hard R on purpose'

In December 2020, Rombough expressed his disappointment that a suspect did not have more bruises because of his skin color, according to the documents.

'I was bummed that beast was so fat cuz he didn't bruise up very fast,' he wrote.

Officer Evans responded, 'It never looks good on black guys.'

Rombough wrote back, 'Just like jobs and responsibilities.'

Other alleged text messages sent indicate officers would target and harm intentionally harm black individuals while they were working.

In September 2020, Officers Rodriguez and Prieto said they would hand out traffic citations.

Prieto allegedly wrote, 'Make these n***as eat s**t. Yes of course.'

Rodriguez responded, 'Yes that will be easy. And it will be a good time lol start off quick with the numbers.'

Rombough also admitted to stopping people because of their race in 2021 when he wrote: 'I'm only stopping them cuz they black. F*** them. Kill each other.'

Other officers admitted to general misconduct on the force, including falsifying confessions to make their jobs easier.

Amiri at one point sent a text to an officer within the Brentwood Police Department and said, 'Since we don't have video I sometimes just say people gave me a full confession when they didn't. Gets filed easier.'

In August 2020, while discussing an arrest in Pittsburg using Amiri's police K-9, the Amiri and Wenger lamented about Pittsburg officers having body cameras.

'If Pitt didn't have all those body cams and that was us we would have f***ed him up more. He didn't get what he deserve,' Amiri wrote.

'Gotta stop kicking n***as in their head,' Rombough wrote to Evans in March 2021

On June 7, 2021, Rombough referred to black women as 'water buffalo'

Antioch Mayor Lamar Thorpe (left) pictured with Sergeant Rick Hoffman (right), one of the officers implicated in the racist text scandal

This is Antioch, California, where the texting scandal has emerged

The texts were discovered amid an ongoing investigation into the officers that may see dozens of charges filed.

Officials with the Contra Costa County District Attorney's Office and the FBI say they are considering charging officers with assault under color of authority, fraud, and other charges.

Antioch's mayor and police chief have now both spoken out against the racism.

When asked about the scandal by reporter with the Mercury News, Mayor Thorpe said he was 'blown away' by the texts.

'Here I am trusting them. There are times where I've asked the police department to circle my house because my daughter's there by herself,' Thorpe said.

'And this is the type of animus they have toward people like me and my daughter? I'm just so disgusted right now. I can't even describe it,' he continued.

The mayor also had an incredibly heated interaction with a resident who appeared at a city council meeting and called for Thorpe's own texts to be made public.

'Let's get an audit of your text messages,' the attendee is heard saying at one point.

After the man finishes, Thorpe bangs his gavel and tells everyone to 'settle down.'

The mayor then accused the resident of 'dog whistle racism,' calling him 'an apologist for what's actually wrong with the city.'

The two continued to argue across the room before Thorpe shouted out to the white resident: 'You want to go outside? Let's go.'

'So we are harassing the gorillas' and 'F**k these gorillas' are both texts sent by Rombough

'I condemn  in the strongest possible terms  the racially abhorrent content and incomprehensible behavior being attributed to members of the Antioch Police Department in media reports,' Antioch Police Department Chief Ford said in a statement

In a statement last week, the city's police chief said he was disgusted by the messages.

'I condemn  in the strongest possible terms  the racially abhorrent content and incomprehensible behavior being attributed to members of the Antioch Police Department in media reports,' Ford said.

'I have taken immediate action to ensure a thorough investigation by an external independent entity is conducted and the community is not exposed to any individuals under question from this reporting,' he continued.

'On behalf of our organization, I apologize to the Antioch Community for the hurt caused by this hateful speech. I promise to hold accountable the officers expressing racist or bigoted beliefs, biased insensitivity, and those boasting about harming members of the community,' Ford wrote in a statement.

'I would like to thank the Contra Costa District Attorneys office and Federal Bureau of Investigation for their work in helping us identify the sickening disease of racism and other incompatible behaviors within our ranks. We will continue to fully cooperate with their efforts while taking actionable steps to restore community trust in our organization,' his statement concluded.

Antioch, located 50 miles northeast of San Francisco, is a city of around 115,000. According to 2020 Census data, around 24 percent of the city's population is black.
Pennsylvania beer company Yuengling appeared to take aim at Bud Light on Friday, with a tweet shortly after its rival's CEO apologized for the 'divisive' decision to partner with transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney.

Brendan Whitmore, the CEO of Anheuser-Busch, Bud Light's parent company, issued a statement on Friday about the crisis that has engulfed the brewer and seen $6 billion knocked off its market value.

Shortly after, Yuengling tweeted: 'Yuengling, The Oldest Brewery In America. Independently Owned and Family Operated since 1829 because we make good beer.'

They accompanied the tweet with a photo of their can, which labels the beer 'Traditional Lager'.

Mulvaney's April 1 Instagram post included her drinking a beer with her face printed on the can and lying in a bathtub knocking back Bud Light

Yuengling's tweet - which has been 'liked' 54,000 times - was seen as a dig at its much bigger rival, which is struggling to emerge from the drama begun on April 1, when Mulvaney announced the partnership.

On Friday, after nearly two weeks of silence, the Bud Light Twitter account posted again. The brand tweeted out a frosty can of its classic brew and captioned it 'TGIF?'

The post immediately attracted negative comments, but got far more attention than usual, with 11.1 million views and 25,000 comments.

Most of their recent tweets have been viewed less than a million times.

Even a recent popular tweet from late last month, promoting the brand's March Madness sweepstakes, received just 1.2 million views.

The brand returned to social media Friday to post for the first time since the eruption of controversy. The post garnered 11.1million views

Even a recent popular post of the brand's advertising its March Madness sweepstakes garnered a paltry 1.2million views compared to its more recent work

Bud Light's partnership with Mulvaney seems to be paying dividends in terms of the amount of exposure it has yielded for the brand.

Brand reach is a primary tool used to measure the success of marketing campaigns.

And by the figures alone, the Mulvaney partnership has likely smashed all expectations.

Typically, however, that reach is not supposed to come with a $6 billion market cap loss and disgruntled customers.

The disastrous fallout from the Mulvaney partnership prompted a lukewarm apology for the Anheuser-Busch CEO last week, but it remains unclear exactly what the next step for the struggling brand will be.

Budweiser, its sister brand, released a patriotic new ad featuring its iconic Clydesdale horse on Friday.

The one-minute commercial features shots of the animal galloping across Western landscapes and past landmarks including the Lincoln Memorial and the Brooklyn Bridge.

The ad for the beer - which like Bud Light is owned by Anheuser-Busch - appeared to be a return to traditional values for the brand, which have historically appealed to blue-collar American workers.

However, online users condemned the ad as a feeble attempt to right the ship that was permanently sent in the wrong direction with the Mulvaney partnership.

The iconic Clydesdales are shown galloping across iconic American settings

'My favorite advertisement by a mile was the Clydesdales after 9/11. It was absolute perfection. After your embrace of the trans agenda, glorifying a man looking for his 15 mins of fame by mocking women. I will never buy, drink or serve your beer again,' wrote one user.

'Is the horse trans now?' wrote radio host Dan O'Donnell.

'Nope, you guys destroyed your own base and market because you had to go woke. I'll never drink any of your products again,' wrote Brandon Saario.

'Lol, hard pivot huh?' wrote Angela McArdle, the chair of the Libertarian Party.

Commentator Philip Holloway wrote: 'Don't look now Anheuser Busch and Budweiser but the Clydesdale has already left the barn. The train has sailed, the ship has left the station.'

Bud Light and Budweiser are distinct brands housed under the same parent company.

With the new ad, the latter - often called The King of Beers - appears to be stepping in to save the reputation of Bud Light.

In her controversial ad, Mulvaney posted a clip of herself sipping from a one-off, custom Bud Light can with her face on to promote its March Madness competition.

The backlash saw parent company Anheuser-Busch lose $6billion in market cap within six days.

Mulvaney became well known for the 'days of girlhood' videos, in which the 26-year-old documented the first year of identifying as a girl.

But the TikTok star has angered some feminists and conservatives over claims she's 'play-acting' being a 'girl,' and co-opting parts of womanhood she finds interesting - without having to deal with the misogyny or prejudice many women face.

Analysts said the decision to pair Bud Light with a transgender activist was a strange marketing idea.

'I simply don't understand why they hired the person who was doing the marketing,' said Ted Jenkin, CEO of Oxygen Financial, which he founded to offer financial services to business owners and high net worth individuals across America.

He told Fox News Digital: 'I mean, if your target customer is Kid Rock, and then all of a sudden you decide to go to RuPaul, that just doesn't make any sense at all.'

Anheuser-Busch is led by US CEO Brendan Whitworth, a former Marine lieutenant, CIA officer, and Harvard Business School graduate, who joined A-B in 2014

Whitworth issued this public statement on Friday, two weeks into the controversy

On the eve of Mulvaney's announcement of the partnership, Alissa Heinerscheid, the vice president of marketing for Bud Light, said she wanted to make the brand less 'fratty'.

'I'm a businesswoman, I had a really clear job to do when I took over Bud Light, and it was 'This brand is in decline, it's been in a decline for a really long time, and if we do not attract young drinkers to come and drink this brand, there will be no future for Bud Light,' she told a podcast.

She also condemned the company's previous branding, saying: 'We had this hangover, I mean Bud Light had been kind of a brand of fratty, kind of out-of-touch humor, and it was really important that we had another approach.'

On Friday, Whitworth, the CEO, said: 'We never intended to be part of a discussion that divides people.

'We are in the business of bringing people together over a beer.'

Whitworth, a former Marine lieutenant, CIA officer, and Harvard Business School graduate, did not directly address the Mulvaney partnership or issue an apology.

Instead, he signaled a desire to move away from divisive subjects, saying: 'I am responsible for ensuring every consumer feels proud of the beer we brew.'

He continued: 'My time serving this country taught me the importance of accountability and the values upon which America was founded: freedom, hard work and respect for one another. As CEO of Anheuser-Busch, I am focused on building and protecting our remarkable history and heritage.

'I care deeply about this country, this company, our brands and our partners. I spend much of my time traveling across America, listening to and learning from our customers, distributors and others.

'Moving forward, I will continue to work tirelessly to bring great beers to consumers across our nation.'

Until Friday, Anheuser-Busch's only comment on the matter had been a single statement confirming the Bud Light cans showing Mulvaney's face were a personal gift to the influencer, and not for sale to the public.

'Anheuser-Busch works with hundreds of influencers across our brands as one of many ways to authentically connect with audiences across various demographics,' the statement last week said.

'From time to time we produce unique commemorative cans for fans and for brand influencers, like Dylan Mulvaney.

'This commemorative can was a gift to celebrate a personal milestone and is not for sale to the general public.'
The value of a rare $2 coin has skyrocketed past $1,200 since it was released a little over a week ago.

The Australian Mint released its first-ever silver $2 coin with a coloured design on April 6 to mark the 50th anniversary of the end of Australia's involvement in the Vietnam War in 1973.

Respected Perth-based coin collector Joel Kandiah said there was a 16-hour wait online to buy the coin and a matching gold one, while others joined long queues at the Mint in Canberra.

The polished silver coin, limited to 5,000 pieces, was sold by the Mint for $80 while the gold version numbering 80,000 pieces went for $15.

Both coins feature a UH-1 helicopter surrounded by a coloured band marking the three ribbons awarded to Vietnam veterans and a memorial effigy of Queen Elizabeth II.

A silver $2 coin (above) marking the 50th anniversary of the end of Australia's involvement in the Vietnam War has been valued at $1,200

The matching gold coin (above) has been resold for about $80 after the Mint initially sold them for $15 a piece

The favoured silver coins are now being resold on eBay for anywhere between $1,200 to $2,300, and the gold version is fetching about $80.

Mr Kandiah said two major factors are behind the quickest rise in value seen in Australia's coin collecting history.

'The first reason for the hype of this coin is that it is the first silver version of a coloured two coin, and will most likely be the only version that will feature the Queen's effigy,' he told Seven News.

'It has a lower mintage than the most valuable coloured $2 coin, the Mars $2 coin from the 2018 Planetary Series collection, which is currently valued at around $4,000.'

He explained the release caused a lot of controversy in the coin collecting community with more people growing frustrated by online bots buying up stock to resell at a higher price.

'By mid-afternoon (on April 6), prices had gone up to $100 for the uncirculated (gold) coin and $300 for the silver coin,' Mr Kandiah said.

The Australian Mint wrote that the coins were made to commemorate those who served in the Vietnam War.

The rare silver coin, initially sold by the Mint for $80, is now selling on eBay (above) for anywhere between $1,200 to $2,300

'Some 60,000 Australians served in Vietnam. More than 500 lost their lives, many more were wounded.

'It was Australias largest military commitment in the second half of the twentieth century and one of the countrys most divisive episodes.

'This commemorative coin remembers the Vietnam War for the loss of life and the toll it took on those who served, and for the impact it had on Australia through a turbulent decade.'

While the current price of the silver coin will likely fall, Mr Kandiah added the coin should hold its value because so few were minted.

'Once we find more people get hands on their orders from the Mint, it is likely that they will sell their coins to cash in on the price rise but the relative rarity of the coin could be a long-lasting factor in its valuation,' he said.
NSW could face future energy supply challenges as one of the state's major coal-fired electricity shuts down.

The Liddell Power Station in Muswellbrook in the Hunter region today, after owner AGL delayed its planned closure by a year.

AGL initially flagged the shutdown in 2015 after the operator found the plant had 'reached the end of its technical life'.

The closure will mean there is 1260MW less electricity in the NSW grid, as three of its remaining seven power units are decommissioned.

The Liddell plant provides power to 10 per cent of NSW, about eight million people, with those households to receive energy from Queensland and Victoria instead.

'The challenges are big, but the work can be done,' NSW's new Energy Minister Penny Sharpe said.

Ms Sharpe said the grid would manage as it lost input from Liddell, but the closure could present difficulties for baseload power requirements.

The Liddell Power Station in Muswellbrook (pictured) provided 10 per cent of energy to NSW residents with about eight million residents to be impacted by its closure

The closure of the plan is part of AGL's commitment to net zero emissions by 2050, but has everyday Aussies questioning if the move will cause energy prices to surge (stock image)

'The grid can cope. Yes, it is more challenging. But this has been a planned closure for over seven years, so it's not a surprise,' she said.

'There has been renewables coming online, as well as the other work that's being undertaken.

'We need to make sure that households and businesses in particular can continue to stay connected to the grid, and can continue, hopefully, to not pay very high prices.'

The government has also not ruled out intervening to keep another ageing coal station, Eraring, near Lake Macquarie, open beyond its scheduled closure date of 2025.

Ms Sharpe said the government would work with the operator in the coming years.

'The issue here with Eraring is that we need to make sure that the lights stay on in NSW,' Ms Sharpe said.

'That's my number one job and the job of the Minns Labor government.

'We have said that all options are on the table as we make this transition, so we're not saying that we're going to be closing it down in 2025.'

This work would take place at the same time the government works on renewable energy technologies, including battery storage technology, she said.

But Nationals Senator Matt Canavan claimed NSW was not ready for the closure and warned power bills will rise yet again.

'We've got some experts out there saying there's enough power, but we heard all these things before the Hazelwood Power Station was shut in Victoria a few years ago,' Mr Canavan told Sky News on Tuesday.

The shutdown is reminiscent of the closure of the Hazelwood Power Station in Victoria's Latrobe Valley in March of 2017, which saw power prices double (pictured is the Liddell site)

The shutdown, which has been eight years in the making, has sparked fears the wholesale price of energy will now skyrocket and fall directly on customers (pictured is the Liddell plant)

'After that was shut, we had an absolute energy crisis  power prices surged, factories shut and let's hope we're not seeing history repeat here.

He said Australia is not replacing decommissioned coal plants with 'reliable power sources' and efforts to replace them with renewables are not working.

'Coal-fired power can remain on almost all of the time, solar and wind investments cannot do that. In every country in the world where they have tried to rely solely on solar and wind investments, you've seen higher power prices and lower reliability,' he claimed.

'What we need right now to get power prices down, to bring some cost of living relief to the Australian people is to invest in reliable power.

'That must mean coal, gas, hydro, or nuclear.'

The closure of the Hazelwood Power Station in March of 2017, saw power prices double or surge by up to 85 per cent - equivalent to an extra $1.8billion a year that fell directly on Victorians.

The station was closed due to the increasing cost of operations, with the site needing a $400million cash injection to keep it safe and efficient.

Of the 180 workers who were employed at the Liddell site, two-thirds have been transferred to the nearby Bayswater Power Station.
Billionaire Elon Musk Told Tucker Carlson he plans to launch 'the third option' to Microsoft and Google after announcing his alternative chatbot on Monday, and slamming his competitors for how they used AI.

He criticized Microsoft-backed OpenAI, the firm behind chatbot sensation ChatGPT, of 'training the AI to lie' and said it has now become a 'closed source', 'for-profit' organization 'closely allied with Microsoft'.

'It's simply starting late. But I will try to create a third option,' Musk said in an interview with Fox News Channel's Tucker Carlson aired on Monday.

Due to Musk's belief in free speech, the new bot product could have less of a left-wing bias than ChatGPT, which has already been criticized for 'woke' responses.

He also accused Larry Page, co-founder of Google, of not taking AI safety seriously.

Billionaire Elon Musk said on Monday he will launch an artificial intelligence platform that he calls 'TruthGPT' to challenge the offerings from Microsoft and Google

'I'm going to start something which I call "TruthGPT", or a maximum truth-seeking AI that tries to understand the nature of the universe,' he added.

He said TruthGPT 'might be the best path to safety' that would be 'unlikely to annihilate humans'.

Musk has been poaching AI researchers from Alphabet Inc's Google to launch a startup to rival OpenAI, people familiar with the matter told Reuters.

Last month he registered a firm named X.AI Corp, incorporated in Nevada, according to a state filing. The firm listed Musk as the sole director and Jared Birchall, the managing director of Musk's family office, as a secretary.

The move came even after Musk and a group of artificial intelligence experts and industry executives called for a six-month pause in developing systems more powerful than OpenAI's newly launched GPT-4, citing potential risks to society.

Musk also reiterated his warnings about AI during the interview with Carlson, saying 'AI is more dangerous than, say, mismanaged aircraft design or production maintenance or bad car production' according to the excerpts.

'It has the potential of civilizational destruction,' he said.

'An AI that cares about understanding the universe is unlikely to annihilate humans.'@elonmusk tells @TuckerCarlson why he's creating 'Truth GPT' pic.twitter.com/ZylwsfkZfq  Fox News (@FoxNews) April 18, 2023

'I'm going to start something which I call "TruthGPT", or a maximum truth-seeking AI that tries to understand the nature of the universe,' Musk said in an interview with Fox News Channel's Tucker Carlson aired on Monday

Due to Musk's belief in free speech, the new bot product could have less of a left-wing bias than ChatGPT, which has already been criticized for 'woke' responses

Musk also accused Larry Page, co-founder of Google, of not taking AI safety seriously

He said, for example, that a super intelligent AI can write incredibly well and potentially manipulate public opinions.

He tweeted over the weekend that he had met with former U.S. President Barack Obama when he was president and told him that Washington needed to 'encourage AI regulation'.

Musk co-founded OpenAI in 2015, but he stepped down from the company's board in 2018. In 2019, he tweeted that he left OpenAI because he had to focus on Tesla and SpaceX.

He also tweeted at that time that other reasons for his departure from OpenAI were, 'Tesla was competing for some of the same people as OpenAI & I didnt agree with some of what OpenAI team wanted to do.'

Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has also become CEO of Twitter, a social media platform he bought for $44billion last year.

In the interview with Fox News, Musk said he recently valued Twitter at 'less than half' of the acquisition price.

In January, Microsoft Corp announced a further multi-billion dollar investment in OpenAI, intensifying competition with rival Google and fueling the race to attract AI funding in Silicon Valley.

Musk has already commented on a MailOnline story which highlights bias replies from ChatGPT, saying it was 'extremely concerning'.

He also already tweeted: 'The danger of training AI to be woke  in other words, lie  is deadly.'

The Financial Times cited people 'familiar with the tech entrepreneur's plans', although Musk is yet to comment.

'A bunch of people are investing in it . . . it's real and they are excited about it,' the person said.

Since ChatGPT's release in November, it's been used to prescribe antibiotics, fool job recruiters, write essays, come up with recipes and much more.

But users have shared screenshots of responses from the AI bot that show left-wing bias.

Pedro Domingos, a computer science professor at the University of Washington, dismissed ChatGPT as a 'woke parrot'.

ChatGPT wouldn't tell a joke about women as doing so would be 'offensive or inappropriate', but happily told a joke about men

Pedro Domingos, a computer science professor at the University of Washington, asked ChatGPT to write a 10 paragraph argument for using more fossil fuels to increase human happiness

When Domingos asked the bot to list 'five things white people need to improve', it offered a lengthy reply that included 'understanding and acknowledging privilege' and 'being active listeners in conversations about race'.

But when asked to do the same for Asian, black and Hispanic people, the bot declined, because 'such a request reinforces harmful stereotypes'.

Another user asked ChatGPT to write a story where President Joe Biden beat Donald Trump in a presidential debate and vice versa.

ChatGPT replied with a detailed story of Biden beating Trump, where the former president struggled to 'keep up with Biden's 'deeper knowledge and more thoughtful responses'.

But when asked to write a story where Trump gets the better of Biden, ChatGPT said 'it's not appropriate' to depict a fictional political victory of one candidate over another as it 'can be viewed in poor taste'.

Musk is one of the co-founders of OpenAI, which was started as a non-profit in 2015, but he stepped down from the company's board in 2018.

The billionaire attempted to take control of the start-up, but his request was rejected, forcing him to quit.
A heartbroken widower has recalled the harrowing moment he was arrested after he arrived home to find his dying wife.

Erin Gilbert, 42, was stabbed multiple times in the head with a sharp object in the living room of her Merrylands unit in western Sydney on Easter Sunday.

Her husband Nic Gilbert, 38, was at a friend's place that evening before arriving home.

He had lost his keys so he used a bin to climb onto their first floor balcony and went inside to find the aged care nurse lying on a mattress in their bedroom 'choking on her own blood'.

Mr Gilbert revealed on Tuesday that he was actually arrested by police shortly after she passed. He spent almost 24 hours in a police cell covered in his wife's blood.

Mr Gilbert was later released without any charges laid and insists he had absolutely no involvement in his wife's death.

Nic Gilbert is desperate to find out who stabbed his wife Erin to death. Pictured are the couple on their wedding day in 2020

In an interview with the Daily Telegraph, Mr Gilbert denied ever harming his wife, adding he still feels like a 'suspect' due to the lack of information he's received from police since her death.

He recalled: 'I'm sitting there in the cop station thinking 'I'm helping them catch who just killed my wife, I've still got her blood all over me'  and they say "You're being arrested and detained for the murder of Erin Gilbert."'

'I nearly f***ing collapsed  I didn't kill my wife.'

Police have seized the mobile phone the couple shared, as well as Mr Gilbert's electric bike, wedding ring and necklace as the strike force investigation into his wife's death continues.

Mr Gilbert is desperate for answers as to what happened to Erin and believes 'someone must have seen something'.

'She knew not to let random people in ... if someone comes around and I'm not home, Erin would tell them to come back in an hour,' he told the publication.

Nic Gilbert (right) was initially arrested and questioned over the death of his wife Erin (left) but was released without any charges

Mr Gilbert arrived home to find his wife lying in a pool of blood inside their Merrylands unit. Pictured, police at the western Sydney complex

Mr Gilbert doesn't know when his wife's funeral will be and has repeatedly tried to contact her parents but to no avail.

Mr Gilbert also opened up about the couple's battle with drug addiction and plans to 'get clean' - but denied either of them owed money to dealers.

Daily Mail Australia previously revealed Ms Gilbert had unsuccessfully been trying for a baby via IVF prior to her death.

Ms Gilbert had recently given up smoking as she and her husband were desperately trying to have a baby.

Nic Gilbert (pictured last week) is struggling to come to terms with the death of his wife

'Erin had so many plans for her future,' her best friend Shane Niquet told Daily Mail Australia.

'She just gave up smoking so she could start IVF again - she wanted a baby more then anything.'

Detectives have launched Strike Force Trevelyan to investigate Ms Gilbert's death.

They previously revealed her husband has been 'very forthcoming' with police during their inquiries.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.
Disaster interview about her aspiration forced her to defend controversial views

A year ago she was trounced in federal election after anti-trans tweets emerged

Katherine Deves threw her hat in the ring to replace Jim Molan in the Senate

Controversial failed Liberal candidate Katherine Deves has been put on the defensive during a combative interview as she compaigns to replace the late Jim Molan in the Senate.

Ms Deves was defeated as the Liberal candidate for Tony Abbott's old seat of Warringah at last year's federal election, beaten by independent Zali Steggall after a campaign that was derailed by debate about her views on the transgender issue.

Her bid took a turn for the worse early when old tweets opposing transgender participation in women's sport were unearthed.

The Liberals suffered huge swings against them in seats across their former heartland of Sydney's affluent North Shore, and she was soundly beaten by the incumbent Ms Steggall.

Despite that, Ms Deves has thrown her hat in the ring to replace Sen. Molan who died in January.

In keeping with standard practice, the Liberal Party can nominate a successor which is then rubber-stamped by the governor.

Ms Deves received a brutal grilling on Sky News about her suitability for parliament.

'You have offended transgender children and their parents, you've had to apologise to the Jewish community, you even had to visit the Sydney Holocaust Museum after making Nazi comparisons,' she was asked by host Sheree Markson.

'What on Earth makes you think you would be the best person to replace the highly respected and much-loved Senator Jim Molan?'

Ms Deves likened herself to General Molan, noting they were both conservative politicians.

'He had a very distinguished career in the military, I have read his book,' she said.

'With respect to what I think I could bring to the table, well I am a strong conservative woman I can demonstrate, to the people that I would represent that I would go in there fighting.

'And I do align myself with some of the values that Jim had, particularly around issues of, you know, defending our freedom of speech, defending our great nation, standing up for aspirational Australian families, and standing up for common sense.'

Controversial failed Liberal candidate Katherine Deves has dug herself another hole in a trainwreck interview about her new political aspirations

Despite her failure to regain the blue-ribbon seat, Ms Deves threw her hat in the ring to replace the late senator Jim Molan

General Molan was a controversial MP after being accused of war crimes during the Iraq war in 2004, which he strongly denied.

He was in command of local coalition forces when the city of Fallujah was surrounded and heavily bombed, causing heavy civilian casualties and earning him the nickname 'The Butcher of Fallujah'.

Then in 2017 he shared anti-Islam content from far-right group Britain First, but denied the videos were racist.

Ms Deves said attending the Sydney Holocaust Museum was an 'incredibly moving and memorable experience', but was told she only had to go because she posted an offensive tweet.

Her comments were actually a part of a panel discussion, not a tweet, in 2021 where she likened opposition to transgender activism to those who resisted Nazi Germany's occupation of France during World War II.

Ms Deves said she was 'discussing the rise of fascist regimes' and how their 'deeply authoritarian and socialist ideologies are infiltrating our societies'.

'I'm not excusing it, but I have learned that it was absolutely the wrong thing to do and I showed contrition and I apologised,' she said.

Katherine Deves stood for the seat of Warringah at the last election and was trounced after her transphobic tweets emerged calling transgender children 'mutilated', among other controversial statements

Ms Deves also argued there was nothing 'divisive' about saying 'men cannot be women, and that in certain circumstances biological sex matters and that women and girls have the right to privacy, dignity, and safety in certain contexts'.

But the interviewer argued Ms Deves went too far with her wild claims that provoked widespread outrage.

'A lot of people stand up for women's rights without going that step further and offending people,' she said.

Ms Deves insisted her campaign for Warringah was supported by 'thousands of people' from 'all across NSW, Australia, indeed the world'.

This was despite her losing to Olympic medalist Ms Steggall 60.96 per cent to 39.04 per cent at the election, after preferences.

Though her primary vote was just 33.35 per cent, the swing against the Liberals in Warringah at the 2022 election was smaller than that in other North Shore seats of Bennelong, North Sydney and MacKellar, all of which were lost by incumbent Liberal members.

The frontrunner to replace General Molan, Catholic Schools NSW boss Dallas McInerney, pulled out two weeks ago, leaving former NSW transport minister Andrew Constance the likely selection.
Do you know more? Email wayne.flower@mailonline.com

Charged by WorkSafe over four breaches to Occupational Health and Safety Act

He got out of his vehicle to re-enter an access code, wash cycle then started

Mulgrave man, 73, was crushed in a Melbourne car wash in November of 2019

An elderly man who died after becoming trapped in a carwash was screaming in agony as staff, police and paramedics tried desperately but fruitlessly to free him.

Lawyers representing international oil company Chevron appeared before the Melbourne Magistrates' Court on Monday after the company was charged over the 73-year old Mulgrave man's death.

Documents released to Daily Mail Australia on Monday evening reveal police and paramedics were quick to respond to the emergency, arriving within minutes of him becoming trapped in the carwash at Springvale in southeast Melbourne.

Documents stated the man, who a magistrate and lawyers acting for both parties refuse to name, was left 'screaming and unable to move'.

The Springvale service station where a 73-year old was crushed to death. It was then branded a Puma service station. Chevron bought the company after the accident happened

Global oil giant Chevron has been charged by WorkSafe over four breaches to the Occupational Health and Safety Act following the death of a man at a Melbourne car wash in November 2019 (stock image)

'Alerted by another customer, sales assistants at the service station attempted but could not free (the man) and called emergency services,' documents stated.

'Minutes later, two ambulances arrived at the scene, Victoria Police members also attended.'

The court heard paramedics could not release him and promptly ascertained the man's heart had stopped beating.

It took Country Fire Authority firefighters 16 minutes to arrive at the scene and extricate the man from the machine.

Paramedics were then able to 'reanimate' the unconscious man and took him to hospital.

However the man died days later from the long period without oxygen to the brain caused by 'crash asphyxia'.

Daily Mail Australia is unable to report much of what the safety watchdog alleges against Chevron after Magistrate Brett Sonnet insisted large portions of the prosecution summary be redacted upon release to the media.

On Monday, a witness described the shocking moment the man rushed to his doom inside the car wash.

Pietrina Di Noto had been next in line to have her vehicle washed when she watched the horrific incident unfold.

She told the court the elderly man's fate was sealed when he attempted to make it into the front seat of his car after the car wash fired into action.

The car wash where the shocking accident happened

A man, 73, was crushed after getting out of his vehicle to re-enter an access code, with the wash cycle then starting (stock image)

USA MAN DIED IN CAR WASH LAST YEAT Rene Tactay Jaime, 56, died inside a US car wash in April last year after exiting his vehicle inside. The Escondido Police Department said Mr Jaime drove into a car wash in the 2100 block of East Valley Parkway and exited his 2014 Scion XB for an unknown reason. Officers later found his car in drive gear along with evidence that Mr Jaime was dragged by the vehicle, which rolled forward after he exited it. Mr Jaime became wedged between the left side of the vehicle and the left column of the car wash machinery. The car wash did not appear to be active at the time of the incident. Advertisement

WorkSafe Victoria hit Chevron with four negligence charges after the man drove into the carwash before getting out of his car to re-enter an access code.

The court heard he was crushed when he tried to get back into his vehicle when the wash cycle had started, with his car door becoming stuck by a gantry.

The man died from his injuries in hospital three days later, in November 2019.

Ms Di Noto told the court she saw the elderly man jump out of his car to enter the code.

Addressing the court on day one of an expected four day preliminary hearing, Ms Di Noto said the man 'roughly' asked her to move her vehicle so he could enter the code.

'He saw the machine move and started to run,' she said.

Ms Di Noto said she saw water starting to flow from the carwash as the man desperately tried to re-enter the front seat of his vehicle.

'I thought "Oh no, please get into the back seat",' she said.

Ms Di Noto said the man managed to open the front door wide enough to get a foot inside before he was cut down by the car wash.

'It would have been better if he'd just walked out,' she said. 'It was clear to me.'

A CFA fire crew was eventually able to free the stricken man (stock image)

'It was obviously dangerous to get in the front,' she said. 'I was shocked.'

Chevron Australia Downstream Fuels, which operates the carwash, was charged by WorkSafe with four breaches to the Occupational Health and Safety Act.

While extending its condolences to the family of the man who was killed, Chevron disputed it was operator of the carwash at the time.

'Safety is Chevron's top priority, and although the incident occurred before Chevron took up retail operations in Australia, Chevron has been and will continue to co-operate fully with any investigations into the incident,' a spokesman told media just days after the tragedy.

Chevron only acquired Puma Energy (Australia) Holdings, which operated the service station and carwash at the time, in the year following the incident.

Court documents allege the operators failed to take reasonably practicable steps to eliminate risks including not installing signage instructing drivers not to exit their vehicle while the carwash was operating, and not fitting anti-collision bars or other systems capable of detecting an impending impact between moving parts and obstacles in the wash bay.

WorkSafe also alleged gantry legs were fitted with metal brackets which reduced the amount of space for cars, people and other items in the wash bay, and it was reasonably practicable to eliminate or reduce the risk by removing those brackets.

The fourth charge alleges failures over the operating system of the carwash, which allowed customers to drive into the wash bay and leave the car on foot to enter an access code to start the wash cycle.

'It was reasonably practicable for Chevron to eliminate or reduce the risk by installing boom gates which would grant access to the wash bay only after a valid access code was entered,' court documents allege.

The hearing continues.
An international fashion power house will ditch its branding of an iconic Australian hotel, leaving the current owners to undertake a 'refreshing' overhaul.

The House of Versace walked away from renewing its branding agreement with the Palazzo Versace Hotel on the Gold Coast, which is set to expire by the middle of this year.

The five-star hotel which 'brings Europe to the Gold Coast' with its Italian design and Versace furnishings has attracted the who's who of celebrities including Snoop Dog, Bono, Beyonce and Jay Z.

It is one of only two Versace-branded hotels in the world, the other located in Dubai.

Representatives from the luxury hotel's Chinese owner Dong Run Group flew to Milan in Italy to talk over its future with the fashion giant.

But it is understood no agreement was reached.

'The owners have not maintained it to the standard that the House of Versace require so they chose not to renew the licence agreement,' a source with close ties to the talks told Gold Coast Bulletin.

The House of Versace walked away from renewing its branding agreement with the Palazzo Versace Hotel (pictured) on the Gold Coast, which is set to expire by the middle of this year

Representatives from the hotel's Chinese owner Dong Run Group flew to Milan in Italy to talk over its future with Versace - but it is understood no agreement was reached

Thousands of the famous Medusa tiles will have to be removed but the main one in the foyer will remain in the hotel (pictured, a Medusa decorative metal carving in one of the hotel's luxury rooms)

Builder Soheil Abedian forked out $200million through his company Sunland Group to build Palazzo Versace which brought 'the grand five-star luxury hotels of Europe to the Gold Coast'

The 200-room hotel (pictured, one of the rooms) and its 72 luxury apartments was then acquired by the Dong Run Group in 2012 for $68.5million

One investor added the location was the best on the Gold Coast due to the area's three-storey height limit - meaning the hotel (pictured) would never be built out

A condo owner at the hotel said they were positive about the hotel's future, hoping the rebranding will give the 'tired hotel' a new lease on life.

Thousands of the famous 'Medusa head' tiles replicating Versace's famous logo will have to be removed but the main Medusa image in the foyer will remain in the hotel.

The huge chandelier - whose original owner was Gianni Versace, the fashion giant's founder - will also stay put.

The legendary Italian luxury label branded the five-star hotel at The Spit after the hotel's builder Soheil Abedian approached Versace in 1997.

Mr Abedian's company Sunland Group forked out $200million to build the sprawling property.

It is understood tens of millions were spent on marble alone.

The 200-room hotel and its 72 luxury apartments was then acquired by the Dong Run Group in 2012 for $68.5million.

'I am aware that the House of Versace did not continue with their agreement and it is sad that it will be coming to an end,' Mr Abedian said on Monday.

'I hope that will become much better and given the location, it warrants an international brand coming in to manage it.'

A condo owner at the hotel said it was sad to see the Versace brand go but held high hopes the hotel's rebranding in the prime hotspot had a bright future.

'Endless possibilities await as we anticipate the rebranding of our much-loved hotel that we are fortunate enough to share as part of our lifestyle experience while we await to hear what comes next,' they said.

The huge chandelier (pictured) - whose original owner was Gianni Versace, the fashion giant's founder - will remain in the hotel

A condo owner at the hotel said it was sad to see the Versace brand go but held high hopes the hotel's rebranding in the prime hotspot had a bright future

Another owner said they were excited about the 'timeless' hotel's future of 'rejuvenation and renewal' (picture, the Palazzo Versace exterior)

Another owner said they were excited about the 'timeless' hotel's future of 'rejuvenation and renewal'.

One investor added the location was the best on the Gold Coast due to the area's three-storey height limit - meaning the hotel would never be built out.

Sale of the hotel by its Chinese owners has been mooted in the past few years.

Shakespeare Property Group were interested in buying the hotel for $114million but talks came to a stalemate last October.

It is also understood Hilton Worldwide were in discussions to add the hotel to its Waldorf Astoria brand.

Renovations of the hotel were expected to cost $58million.
The father of the murdered teenager Stephen Lawrence has said he will push for his killers to stay behind bars if they do not admit their guilt.

Neville Lawrence, 81, confirmed that he plans to give victim impact statements at the parole hearings of the only members of the racist gang that fatally stabbed his son to be jailed for his death.

Gary Dobson, 47, and David Norris, 46, were convicted in 2012 of murdering Stephen, 18, at a bus stop in South East London in April 1993.

Dobson was sentenced to a minimum of 15 years and 2 months, while Norris received a minimum of 14 years and three months and will be eligible for parole next year.

Mr Lawrence said it was 'essential' to him that the killers acknowledge their guilt before they were allowed back into society and added: 'My son is dead, he will never be able to come out of the coffin.'

Neville Lawrence, 81, confirmed that he plans to give victim impact statements at the parole hearings of the men convicted for his son's murder

Stephen Lawrence, 18, who was planning on fulfilling his father's dream of being an architect, was stabbed to death in April 1993

Mr Lawrence, speaking to The Mirror for the 30th anniversary of his son's death, says he sees no point in meeting Met Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley after a report found recently that the Met continues to struggle with institutional racism, homophobia and sexism.

He said: 'No one is taking any notice of what were saying, they havent been for 30 years, so why would I even bother? I dont want to meet him.

'If there should ever be a situation where somebody was able to bring good evidence to try to get the rest of the people responsible for my sons death, whos going to take the case?'

The report seemingly confirmed concerns that little progress has been made in the London-based force since the damning 1999 Macpherson study.

Mr Lawrence, who holds an honorary doctorate in law, said recent scandals involving police forces meant he wouldn't call an officer, even if he needed them.

'Those things make you feel it is an apartheid system they are using,' he explained, referring to a case where a black teenager was strip-searched.

The retired plasterer, who first came to the UK from Kingston in Jamaica in 1960, has been praised alongside his ex-wife, Baroness Lawrence, for his poise and dignity since his son's murder.

The couple married in 1972 and had three children: Stephen, and his siblings Stuart and Georgina.

His son - who was planning to fulfil Mr Lawrence's life-long ambition of being an architect - went to school on April 22, 1993 as normal. But he would never come home.

The grief-stricken father said that having seen his son's body he didn't remember driving home - and that it wasn't until he saw Stephen's untouched bed the next morning that he realised it was real.

The family trusted that Stephen's death would be properly investigated and believed that the Met was 'the best police force in the world'.

Gary Dobson (right), 47, and David Norris (left), 46, were convicted in 2012 of murdering Stephen, 18, at a bus stop in South East London in April 1993

Gang member Jamie Acourt spent more than two years on the run living in Spain under the alias Simon Alfonzo and was released from prison for his part in a drugs plot in November 2022

Mr Lawrence said that after feeling forced to pursue the suspects in a private prosecution, which ultimately failed, and seeing DCI Clive Driscoll, who led the probe that saw Dobson and Norris jailed, forced off the case in 2014, he felt the Met was not interested.

Police failed to arrest the men suspected of killing the teenager despite having their names within hours of his fatal stabbing.

The Labour government of the time promised the family a public inquiry - leading to the Macpherson report in 1999.

Two of the other gang members, brothers Neil and Jamie Acourt, have served time in prison for drug dealing in the intervening years but the final suspect, Luke Knight, has not been convicted of any offence.

Mr Lawrence was moved to a safe house after police warned him of an assassination plot six years after Stephen's death. He said the best thing had to been to leave the country and he now spends much of his time in Jamaica.

He said: 'When I get to the stage I feel the burden is too heavy, I just go. I look after Stephens grave, paint it up and make it look nice, thats my job.'

When asked about Mr Lawrence's criticisms, the Met referred to Sir Mark Rowley's comments after the release of the Casey review.

The Met Chief said that the report must bring about 'meaningful change' and that: 'If it only leads to pillory and blame of the exceptional majority of officers, then only criminals will benefit.'
It was revealed after he was elected in 2022 that Santos lied about his family history and fabricated much of his resume

George Santos announced Monday that he is running for reelection in 2024 despite being outed as a pathological liar and facing intense backlash from his voting bloc in Long Island for fabricating his resume to get elected.

The announcement comes after Santos also unveiled seven new bills on Monday, including one name after female rap star Nicki Minaj that would tighten laws surrounding approvals for new vaccines.

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy wouldn't say whether he would support Santos' reelection campaign.

Santos, a Republican congressman, played coy for weeks after taking office in January over whether he would seek another term, but insisted he would not resign from his post despite protests in his home district.

New York Rep. George Santos announced Monday he is running for a second term despite fabricating much of the resume that got him elected in the first place in 2022

The liar congressman included a link to donations for his reelection even though he is under investigation for campaign finance law violations related to where money came from for his run

Now, 100 days after taking his oath, Santos confirmed he will seek a second term in office.

'As a first generation American, I'm no stranger to the issues that affect my district,' Santos started in his reelection statement, which included doubling-down on several claims that have been brought into question over his few months in Congress.

McCarthy, the top Republican in the House, chuckled when asked by reporters at the Capitol on Monday if he would support a reelection for one of his most controversial members.

'We'll wait and see who else files,' he said, opening up the possibility that he would back a challenger for the seat that flipped red to help Republicans win a majority in the lower chamber for the second half of President Joe Biden's term.

Several of the claims Santos has made about his resume and his past have come into question since he won election in November 2022, including his Jewish ethnicity, his education and his past relationships as the first openly gay Republican to serve in Congress.

'I grew up poor with a single mom, and thanks to the American dream, a poor boy of immigrant parents in Queens can grow up to serve his community in the halls of Congress,' Santos said in his reelection announcement.

Monday was a busy day for Santos as he unveiled seven new bills along with his reelection campaign

The Minaj Act is one of the bills, named after rapper Nicki Minaj, and would require a 'development period' for new vaccinations in order enhance 'public confidence' in them

Monday was busy for the congressman, considering he announced his rerun in conjunction with seven new bills.

The Minaj Act, named after the rapper who expressed in 2021 skepticism over the COVID-19 vaccine, would require a waiting period for new vaccinations.

There is not much information about the bill or what he defines as a 'development period,' which he says is meant to help shore-up 'public confidence' in inoculations before they are made available.

Minaj, who grew up in Queens, New York, claimed that one of her cousin's friends became 'impotent' after getting the coronavirus jab in 2021.
Dozens of Covid mass testing clinics could soon be shut down as it dawns on political leaders that barely anyone is still using them.

Maintaining 88 drive-through and 77 walk-in clinics across NSW alone is costing taxpayers millions, but NSW Health refused to say exactly how much.

New NSW Treasurer Daniel Mookhey on Tuesday said the government was reviewing the clinics after Daily Mail Australia revealed fewer than 100 people a day used them.

Gone are the huge queues and maddening waits of two years ago.

Instead, bored staff fiddle with their phones and put their feet up, waiting patiently for someone - anyone - to turn up.

Bored staff at the Maroubra clinic, in Sydney's east, fiddle with their phones, call friends, and put their feet up - grateful to have something to do when a patient arrives

A once-bustling Covid drive-through testing clinic in Maroubra is now empty with less than 100 showing up a day

At the height of the outbreak, the specialist drive-through and walk-in PCR test sites had queues hours long - now anything more than 100 people would be a busy day.

Huge white shelters are still planted in car parks as cars trickle through, rarely encountering a delay before a medical worker walks up.

The rest of the time, two or three bored staff watch their phones or call friends - grateful to have something to do when a patient arrives.

Mr Mookhey said he drove past the testing site Maroubra, in Sydney's eastern suburbs, and 'there was no one there'.

Staff at that clinic told Daily Mail Australia they usually had 50 to 100 show up a day during the 7am to 4pm opening hours, with about 95 on Wednesday.

Unlike during the Omicron outbreak, when there was no lockdown but plenty of cases, there was no pre- and post-work rush.

'They just come one at a time, or sometimes a few - it's really random. There's fewer today, maybe 50-something so far,' one said at lunch on Thursday.

A health worker sits waiting for someone to arrive for testing in Brighton-Le-Sands, Sydney

The turn up today is a far cry from the height of the pandemic when there were hours long waits

Workers at Histopath Pathology drive-through clinic in Merrylands, Sydney amuse themselves waiting for patients to arrive

Very few tests were positive and there was no sign of the clinics being wound up any time soon.

'It's all up to the government, we don't really know,' they said.

Mr Mookhey said the government was looking into it and NSW Health advised demand was obviously not as strong as it once was.

'We're putting them through some strict scrutiny now, we're getting the health advice,' he said on 2GB radio on Tuesday.

'We have to make sure that every dollar the value is spending is getting value.'

The treasurer noted the government needed to make savings to fix an almost $80 billion budget hole, and more nurses were needed in hospitals.

A patient rolls up for a PCR test, finally giving the worker something to do

The clinic is completely empty with only the occasional trickle of people arriving for testing

Staff at Covid test clinics had no idea how long they would continue operating

Another clinic in southern Sydney had four cars arrive in the space of half an hour, with a worker saying there was usually less than 100 a day.

'It's not many compared to what it used to be,' staff said, having conducted 40 to 50 tests by early Thursday afternoon.

NSW Health stopped counting tests in its weekly updates after February 3, when there were 41,747 combined PCR and rapid tests over the previous week.

How many were conducted at testing sites is not known and NSW Health failed to provide the figure when asked by Daily Mail Australia.

Senior ministerial staffers are understood to be surprised so many of the clinics are still operating more than three years after the pandemic began.

The previous government shut down many of them last October, but left the current sites operating despite dwindling use.

At the height of the outbreak, the specialist drive-through and walk-in PCR test sites had queues hours long. Now they are white elephans

So few people come to this test site in Bankstown, western Sydney, that there are no staff at the front, having all retreated inside

4Cyte drive-through clinic in North Ryde, in Sydney's north, has nothing but empty chairs

A well-placed source in the previous government said there was no reason to have the clinics open anymore and patients could get a PCR test at a GP or hospital.

'We need the nurses elsewhere and they are costing us a fortune,' they said.

The source said the clinics were only kept open because the Coalition feared political backlash from sections of the population ahead of the March 25 election.

Operation of the clinics is largely outsourced to private companies, but the staff are spending much of their day idle during a serious nursing shortage.

There is a forecast shortfall of 20,000 to 40,000 nursing positions by 2025 that the new government hopes it can fix with higher pay and a huge recruiting drive.
China poses an 'epoch-defining' challenge to the West amid fears it could become the world's strongest technological power, security chiefs warn today.

The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) head, Lindy Cameron, will say the UK and its allies cannot be complacent over the 'dramatic rise of China as a technology superpower'.

Beijing is heading for technical supremacy over the West and if it is allowed to win, the strength will be applied to 'achieve a dominant role in global affairs' and not equality with world powers. Ms Cameron will also warn: 'Bluntly, we cannot afford not to keep pace otherwise we risk China becoming the predominant power in cyberspace.'

It comes as it was revealed that Britain has given China 400 million in foreign aid since ministers pledged to stop the payments.

The National Cyber Security Centre head, Lindy Cameron, will say the UK and its allies cannot be complacent over the 'dramatic rise of China as a technology superpower' (file image)

Aid minister Andrew Mitchell announced in 2010 that funds would no longer be sent to the communist-run country.

But figures from the House of Commons library reveal that 391 million was handed over up to the start of last year. Spending in 2022 is expected to push the total beyond 400 million. The outlay peaked at 68.3 million in 2019.

Fears that China could become technologically superior are fuelled by the belief it could use its supply chain controls to suffocate the western markets.

Frontier technologies such as the semiconductor industry, artificial intelligence and quantum computing could be weaponised by China, spy chiefs warn.

Ms Cameron, who is responsible for the UK's cyber protection as chief executive of the NCSC  an arm of intelligence agency GCHQ  will address her concerns to a conference in Belfast.

She will say: 'We cannot secure future technology without addressing the epoch-defining challenge we are facing  the dramatic rise of China as a technology superpower.'

Chinese President Xi Jinping attends a signing ceremony at the Great Hall of the People, in Beijing, China, April 6, 2023

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva (R) inspects an honor guard with Chinese President Xi Jinping (L) during a welcome ceremony held outside the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China, 14 April 2023

According to The Times, Ms Cameron will say China 'has identified several existing and emerging technologies as being vital to its future national security'.

She will add: 'It has the aspiration to become a world leader in setting technological standards.

'So we need to be clear: China is not only pushing for parity with western countries, it is aiming for technical supremacy. It will use its tech strength as a lever to achieve a dominant role in global affairs.

'Some may dismiss this as far-fetched scaremongering, but it is a risk I would urge you to take seriously. This is simply not something about which any of us can be complacent.'

Former Tory leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith said of the aid money being sent to China: 'It is outrageous that the Government is still sending tens of millions of pounds a year to China when we were promised in 2010 that this would stop.

'People will be rightly shocked that we have given 400 million to China, not only because it does not need it  it is the second biggest economy in the world  but also because of its appalling human rights record.'
They could have to see a psychologist before operation

Australians seeking cosmetic surgeries might find it harder to do so under sweeping new rules - with doctors to force some patients to see a psychiatrist or a psychologist.

Harsher regulations to be enacted by the Medical Board of Australia from July 1 will require some of people who seek cosmetic surgery to see a mental health professional.

The regulations cover any cosmetic surgery that breaches the skin, including Botox, breast lifts and boob jobs, face lifts and nose jobs.

Anyone seeking these surgeries must first receive a referral from a general practitioner and two meetings with the surgeon to evaluate a client's mental health.

Even after GP refers a patient to a surgeon, and they have two meetings them, patients may still be told to see a psychologist to clear them for a procedure.

Australians looking to receive cosmetic surgery will have to undergo a mental health screening from their practitioner before their operation from July 1 (stock image)

The new regulations were introduced to help understand the 'motivations and inspirations' behind a patient wanting surgery.

'The medical practitioner who will perform the surgery must assess the patient for underlying psychological conditions ... which may make them an unsuitable candidate for the surgery,' the new regulations read.

The rules also state that the same medical practitioner 'must discuss other options with the patient, including surgery, procedures or treatment offered by other health practitioners and the option of not having the surgery'.

'The practitioner doing the assessment must use a validated psychological screening tool to screen for BDD (body dysmorphia disorder).'

There must also be a cooling off period of seven days following the second consultation with a practitioner before surgery can commence.

While the new regulations seek to protect those with mental health issues such as body dysmorphia, reality TV star Jessika Power claims that it is 'the people's choice' whether to undergo surgery.

Ms Power has undergone an autologous fat transfer from her thighs to her breasts, Botox and fillers.

Reality TV star and cosmetic surgery patient, Jessika Power (pictured), has slammed the new regulations, saying that it is 'the people's choice' whether to undergo cosmetic procedures

'You can't make a decision for somebody if they want to improve or change something about themselves,' she told Radio 3AW.

'They're [psychologists] going to be inundated with requests from young women, young men and where is that going to take the healthcare system?

'I mean, if you're old enough to have it done then you're old enough to make your own choices and that's all it should be.'

The Medical Board has also announced numerous new advertising guidelines for practitioners or clinics that offer cosmetic surgery.

These include no uses of hashtags or taglines, no sexualised images, testimonials or use of social media influencers.

It also specified that images of clients must only be used by pre-written consent, before-and-after images must not be misleading and be consistent across advertising.

Changes to the title 'surgeon' might also be on the horizon, restricting it to specialists in surgery, obstetrics, gynaecology and ophthalmology.
A new poll found nearly one in every five Australians is unsure if they will vote in the upcoming Indigenous Voice referendum despite the threat of fines.

The data, published by Nine on Tuesday, showed 10 per cent of Australians said they will likely refuse to vote on whether an Indigenous Voice to Parliament should be enshrined in the constitution.

Another nine per cent said they're unsure whether they will vote or not.

However, the poll also found those who said they would vote in the referendum were likely to back the Voice with 58 per cent voting 'yes' and 42 per cent voting 'no'.

The new data matches other recent polls which suggest a 'yes' vote for the Voice would pass the double majority test.

One in ten Australians said they're unlikely to vote in the upcoming referendum on an Indigenous Voice to Parliament (pictured, voters in Sydney)

Anthony Albanese warned voters debating about the referendum that there won't be a chance to 'wait for the next one'.

WHAT IS THE DOUBLE MAJORITY TEST? In order for a referendum to succeed it needs to pass the double majority test. The double majority test means the referendum must be approved by the majority of voters as well as the majority of states. The Northern Territory and Australian Capital Territory are not considered in the state majority because they did not exist when the constitution was drafted. Advertisement

'If this isn't successful, it's not like a month later there'll be another referendum around,' the prime minister said on Monday.

'People need to recognise that, after such a long period of time and consultation, this is the opportunity that Australians will have... If not now, when?

'I note that a number of people who say that this is not their perfect ideal (are) saying they will vote yes, because they recognise that it is on now.'

Meanwhile, the Liberal Party - who oppose the Voice - has promoted high-profile Indigenous senator Jacinta Price to Shadow Indigenous Affairs Minister.

She will replace former frontbencher Julian Leeser, who quit the Coalition's frontbench last week to campaign in favour of Labor's Voice To Parliament referendum.

Peter Dutton praised Senator Price as a 'fighter' and said she will lead their vote-no campaign.

'She's a warrior for Indigenous Australians and she's a very proud (Northern) Territorian,' he told reporters.

'She's always fought hard to improve the lives of Indigenous women and kids, and we've seen that just in recent days.

'I know that she'll do an outstanding job in leading the charge, but better practical outcomes for Indigenous Australians, not through the Prime Minister's "Canberra Voice" bureaucracy.'

Australians over the age of 18 who do not vote in the referendum face a $20 fine (pictured, a polling station in Sydney

The Australian Electoral Commission has reminded Australians to update their enrolment information ahead of the referendum vote, expected to be held between October and November this year.

Poll Will you vote in the Voice referendum? Yes No Will you vote in the Voice referendum? Yes 106 votes

No 54 votes Now share your opinion





Voting in the referendum is mandatory for all Australians over the age of 18. Failing to vote can result in a $20 fine.

'(If you do not vote) the Australian Electoral Commission will write to you at the address listed on the electoral roll and ask you to provide a reason why you did not vote,' the AEC states.

'It is at the discretion of the AEC's Divisional Returning Officer for each electorate to determine whether you have provided a valid and sufficient reason for not voting.

'The Divisional Returning Officer will consider the merits of your individual case and take into account any specific circumstances at the polling places within their division in making a determination.'

Australians can vote at any polling station on voting day or opt for postal voting, to vote early or use mobile polling.
An off-duty police officer is under investigation by his own colleagues after he appeared to headbutt a teen who taunted him: 'You're nothing without your badge'.

A 14-year-old Aboriginal teenager was allegedly attacked by the officer outside of a Dalby McDonald's restaurant in North Queensland on Sunday evening, after a group of five teenagers mocked and insulted him.

The officer, a constable, is seen in a video recorded by one of the teens approaching them and demanding to know who had just said something insulting to him.

In the video the off-duty officer can be seen approaching the teens after being taunted

After tensions flared, the officer proceeded to warn the teens to walk away before headbutting a 14-year-old Aboriginal teenager

'Hey? Which one of you said that?,' the officer says, before adding: 'What badge have I got right now?'

'Punch me, punch me - you're a pig,' one teen replies.

Another in the group, wearing a blue jacket, repeatedly asks the officer to walk away.

The off-duty cop then tells them that they have until the count of three before things turn physical.

'I'll give you three seconds to walk away or I headbutt you,' the officer says. 'Three Two One...'

Before the headbutt is laid, an unknown teen can be heard repeating the the officer is a 'pig' and 'nothing without the badge'.

Moments later the officer walks within inches of the 14-year-old and appears to headbutt him - sparking gasps from onlookers.

The off-duty cop gave the group to the count of three before he said he would headbutt them, which he proceeded to do

Police Commissioner Katrina Carroll said that the officer in question has been stood down while an internal investigation is undertaken

The teen admitted to taunting the officer, but claims the adult should have known better.

'I did provoke it a bit, but in the end he's a police officer and he's supposed to be the bigger person in situations,' the teen told 7News.

'As he hit me, a kind of like a flash happened in my eyes, and I kind of just leaned over holding my teeth as blood was coming out my mouth because he had busted my lip in like three places.

'I feel as though he has targeted me because of my colour, because of the colour of my skin.'

The video is now central to an internal police Ethical Standards Command investigation into the off-duty cop's actions that evening.

Ms Carroll said that the internal review will decide 'whether that officer should be stood down or suspended'.

'I have not seen what happened prior to that but on what I have seen, those actions are completely inappropriate,' she said. Ms Carroll also said that it was completely inappropriate for any police officer, whether off-duty or not, to ever physically assault someone.

The investigation continues.
High-profile Indigenous senator Jacinta Price will lead the campaign against Anthony Albanese's Aboriginal Voice to Parliament - as Peter Dutton promotes her to become the Coalition's spokeswoman for Indigenous Australians.

Senator Price replaces Julian Leeser, who sensationally quit the Coalition's frontbench last week in order to campaign in favour of Labor's Voice To Parliament referendum.

The Opposition Leader described Ms Price as a 'fighter'.

'She's a warrior for Indigenous Australians and she's a very proud (Northern) Territorian,' he told reporters.

Northern Territory senator Jacinta Price has been promoted to become the Coalition's spokeswoman for Indigenous Australians

Peter Dutton (right) promotes Ms Price (left) to become the Coalition's spokeswoman for Indigenous Australians on Tuesday

LIBERAL RESHUFFLE Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has unveiled his new shadow cabinet, following the resignations of Julian Leeser and Karen Andrews from the front bench. * NT senator Jacinta Price has been named as the new Indigenous Australians spokeswoman. * She will take over from Julian Leeser, who resigned from shadow cabinet due to his support for the Indigenous voice. * SA senator Kerrynne Liddle has been promoted to the outer ministry as opposition spokeswoman for child protection and the prevention of family violence. * Michaelia Cash will pick up the role of shadow attorney-general, alongside her current role of opposition employment spokeswoman. * Victorian senator James Paterson will take on the opposition home affairs portfolio, alongside his position of cyber security spokesman. * The appointment follows former home affairs spokeswoman Karen Andrews resigning from shadow cabinet and her decision to not contest the next election. Advertisement

'She's always fought hard to improve the lives of Indigenous women and kids, and we've seen that just in recent days.

'I know that she'll do an outstanding job in leading the charge, but better practical outcomes for Indigenous Australians, not through the Prime Minister's "Canberra Voice" bureaucracy.'

The Voice is a proposed new taxpayer-funded assembly of appointed indigenous people who will be given power to influence and review all government policies that affect Aboriginal people.

A referendum is needed to change the constitution for the voice to go ahead. The vote will need support from the majority of Australians in the majority of states to be successful.

Ms Price has been a vocal campaigner against an Indigenous Voice in the constitution. She said she was 'very humbled, very grateful that the leadership has entrusted me'.

'I absolutely look forward to bringing about better lives for our most marginalised Australians in this country,' she said.

Ms Price is the daughter of a Warlpiri woman, Bess Price, who served in the Northern Territory Legislative Assembly and a father with Anglo-Celtic ancestry.

She was born in Darwin, grew up in Alice Springs, had her first child at 17 and has been a victim of domestic violence.

It was also confirmed former home affairs minister Karen Andrews will retire at the next federal election, with Ms Andrews resigning from the front bench as part of Mr Dutton's reshuffle.

Michaelia Cash will add attorney-general to her shadow portfolio.

James Patterson will join the shadow cabinet as the new opposition home affairs spokesman.

High-profile Indigenous senator Jacinta Price will lead the campaign against Anthony Albanese's Aboriginal Voice to Parliament

Kerrynne Liddle will take on the role of opposition spokeswoman for child protection and the prevention of family violence.

Ms Andrews, who represents the Gold Coast seat of McPherson, was first elected in 2010.

She was a cabinet minister from 2018 until the fall of the Morrison government at the 2022 election.
The future has arrived and it is carrying a tin of baked beans and a multi-pack of toilet rolls.

A trial involving 'driverless' deliveries of online orders of groceries is being launched by Asda in London with more locations to follow.

In this case 'driverless' is not exactly what it says on the tin, for the vehicle is actually manned by two people - one to make sure it safely navigates the roads and a second to deliver to the doorstep.

However, assuming the technology proves to be safe, all internet grocery deliveries could be delivered without the need for anyone to be behind the wheel.

The deliveries will be made via a Jaguar iPace using navigation systems developed by the tech company Wayve.

Wayve will pave the way for more 'driverless' tech, backed by machine learning, in the UK

The cars will still have two members on staff on board to navigate and deliver groceries

The year-long trial covers a catchment area of 72,000 households in London, making it the largest such trial in Europe.

The Wayve self-driving vehicles will join Asda's existing online delivery operation at the Park Royal superstore in west London and have the capability to drive themselves to customers' homes.

Customers can place their next-day delivery orders online as usual, choosing from the full range of online products and selecting a delivery slot that suits them.

The only difference is they could be randomly selected to have their order delivered in a self-driving vehicle.

The retailer is the UK's second largest online supermarket, with over 20 per cent of the market and delivers more than 800,000 orders every week.

Wayve's system uses machine learning to train its AI software to learn from experience how to drive in any environment.

This results in AV technology that is not geo-fenced by highly detailed maps or pre-defined routes and can autonomously drive anywhere in its urban domain, even to places it has never been to before.

The system is designed to constantly monitor the road, identifying potential hazards and so make the safest decisions possible.

Asda's vice president for eCommerce, Simon Gregg, said: 'Asda has long understood the value of bringing tech innovation to the online grocery sector and we are always looking at new and innovative partnerships to improve delivery options for customers.

'We believe autonomous technology is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of delivery, not only at our Park Royal store but throughout our nationwide operation.

'Through our partnership with Wayve, we are trialling this technology to understand how it can assist our busy store operations, whilst also adding a unique, reliable and efficient option for Asda customers to have a whole range of products delivered to their doors.'

The Wayve trial with ASDA will be the largest of its kind in Europe, driving forward AV tech

Customers can place their next-day delivery orders online as usual, choosing from the full range of online products and selecting a delivery slot that suits them

The co-founder of Wayve, Alex Kendall, described the initiative as the 'largest urban autonomous grocery delivery trial in Europe'.

He said: 'Trials like this one accelerate our road to deployment.

'They provide the learnings required to bring the benefits of AV technology to customers sooner while ensuring that businesses, like Asda, are prepared to deploy AVs at scale.'
Home Office caseworkers should call asylum seekers 'customers', according to an official training programme offered to thousands of civil servants.

Officials should use the terminology rather than referring to claimants as 'cases' or 'subjects', the programme says, as part of a move to combat mistakes made in the Windrush scandal.

One slide in the training programme says: 'In some areas, such as enforcement, individuals may not be receiving, or asking for a service as a customer, but we should still look at how we can recognise the human face of all people who come into contact with the Home Office.

'This might be as simple as referring to them by their name.'

Officials should use the terminology rather than referring to claimants as 'cases' or 'subjects', the programme says

The Windrush generation was named after the ship that brought over one of the first groups of West Indian migrants invited to the UK in 1948 to help rebuild post-war Britain. It later emerged hundreds of people had been wrongly detained, deported or denied legal rights

More than 16,000 civil servants have taken the course, the Guardian reported at the weekend.

The scheme was devised in the wake of the Windrush affair, which emerged in 2018.

The scandal saw thousands of innocent migrants targeted under the Home Office's 'hostile environment' policy, which was meant to be aimed at illegal immigrants.

A series of training schemes and other programmes have encouraged Home Office staff to see the 'face behind the case' following a highly-critical independent review.

Published in 2020, the review found 'elements of institutional racism' in the way people who lived in the UK entirely legally had been wrongly targeted.

A Home Office spokesman said: 'All UK Visas and Immigration case-working staff are required to complete our 'face behind the case' training to ensure that we have a fair immigration system.'
The Education Secretary has backed Ofsted's one-word assessments despite calls from teachers for the system to be changed.

Gillian Keegan said the ratings, ranging from 'outstanding' to 'inadequate', are 'easy for parents to navigate'.

Headteacher Ruth Perry killed herself in January while awaiting an Ofsted report downgrading her school from the highest rating to the lowest.

Her heartbroken family have said her death was a 'direct result' of the inspection. The tragedy sparked calls for the schools watchdog to be abolished.

Ms Keegan described the death of Ms Perry, the headteacher at Caversham Primary School in Reading, Berkshire, as 'tragic' and said His Majesty's Chief Inspector of Education is looking at whether the way the regulator works with schools can be improved.

Secretary of State for Education Gillian Keegan gestures as she speaks at the London Screen Academy

A photograph of Ruth Perry attached to the fence outside John Rankin Schools in Newbury, Berkshire

But the minister insisted that 'undermining Ofsted' is 'not the right approach', describing the role it plays in upholding standards and safeguarding as 'crucial'.

'I know His Majesty's Chief Inspector is looking at this following the tragic case of Ruth Perry, which is tragic and our thoughts do go out to her family and friends and her school community,' she said.

READ MORE: Furious teacher accuses Ofsted of 'murder' following the death of Ruth Perry Advertisement

Asked if she supports Ofsted's single-word assessments, which rank schools from 'outstanding' to 'inadequate', Ms Keegan said: 'Yeah. They're clear. They're simple to understand.'

She added: 'There's quite a broad framework that's assessed as part of Ofsted and they've actually looked to broaden that framework even more.

'Of course, if there are areas that needed to develop further then that is where the right conversation to have is.'

Critics argue single-word ratings fail to reflect the complexity of a school and the quality of its teaching.

Paul Whiteman, general secretary of school leaders' union NAHT, said: 'One-word Ofsted grades have clearly now had their day.

'While they may appear simple to understand, they are not reliable and at worse can give an incomplete and inaccurate picture of a school's performance.

'It is impossible to accurately describe something as complex as a school in just a single word, and it's worrying that ministers think this can be done.

'There is also growing evidence that parents no longer value these overly simplistic judgments and would value a more balanced, descriptive approach. It is time to move on from this outdated and unreliable system.'

But an Ofsted spokesman said: 'Our inspectors are all former or current school leaders who fully understand the pressures of the role.

'We always want inspections to be constructive and collaborative, and in the vast majority of cases school leaders agree that they are.'
Sir Keir Starmer is 'stuck' and 'urgently needs to up his game', a columnist in Left-wing newspaper The Guardian has claimed.

In a withering assessment, John Harris wrote that the Labour leader is 'coasting' while Rishi Sunak is 'just about managing to look like an efficient, stable and confident leader'.

Mr Harris's column in yesterday's Guardian also criticised Labour's attack ads  one of which claimed the PM does not think child sex abusers should go to prison  as 'crass'.

And he warned that Labour's 'under-performance leaves room for a Conservative revival and a narrow election win'.

Mr Harris said that while a Tory defeat is 'still the most likely outcome', the 'battle between the two big Westminster parties has subtly shifted'.

Guardian columnist John Harris said Keir Starmer was 'coasting'

The scathing ads released by Labour attacking Rishi Sunak

'Labour's average poll lead is now in the teens rather than 20s, Starmer and Sunak's personal ratings are almost even, and gurus of political gambling have been heard advising against any bets on an outright Labour win,' he wrote.

READ MORE: Convictions for sex offences fell sharply on Keir Starmer's watch Advertisement

'The key reasons why are not hard to work out: notwithstanding such grinding problems as the ongoing strikes in the NHS, Sunak is just about managing to look like an efficient, stable, confident kind of leader, while Starmer seems stuck  ahead, but coasting.'

The columnist accused Sir Keir and his senior shadow ministers of speaking in a 'deadening political argot full of abstract nouns and concepts that have little resonance in people's everyday lives'.

And instead of likening 'Starmerism' to New Labour's 1997 glories, he suggested it was more akin to the 'murky years' from 2005 to 2010 when the project 'lost its way' and 'headed for defeat'.

Mr Harris said the party's strategy seems 'woefully incoherent'. He added: 'Up until the recent spurt of crass anti-Sunak attack ads... there was a drive to make Starmer's lack of political experience an asset and portray him as a dutiful public servant uninterested in the usual Westminster games: now, he looks like the opposite.'

Labour's lead has shrunk to the narrowest margin since Mr Sunak took office. Polling last week gave Labour a 14 point lead over the Conservatives  down three points in a week.
A Swedish artist locked herself in a cage alone and naked for three days in a bizarre public exhibition in Stockholm which ended with her sharing a cigarette with her mother.

Elin Skarin, 35, relied on items thrown in to the cage from members of the audience as she navigated herself through 73 hours of madness in an attempt to 'examine the relationship between her personal identity and her role as an actor'.

Although the cage started off with nothing but a camping toilet, some toilet paper and a microphone, it was soon flooded with gifts ranging from food to bottles of beer and practical items such as a pillow and clothing.

Footage taken at the exhibition at the end of last month gave a snapshot of what Skarin did during her three days of self-incarceration.

One clip showed her completely naked with her arms raised in the air, soaking up a rapturous applause from the audience.

A Swedish artist locked herself in a cage alone and naked for three days in a bizarre public exhibition in Stockholm which ended with her sharing a cigarette with her mother

Elin Skarin, 35, relied on items thrown in to the cage from members of the audience as she navigated herself through 73 hours of madness

Later on, she could be seen acting inside the cage, posing for photos and staring at the audience in Stockholm's trendy Sodermalm district.

As the video continued, the artist could be seen charging from one side of the cage to the other before diving into a box and hiding.

As the crowd continue to applaud her, she then reappeared, this time outside of the cage while holding a bottle of wine and celebrating.

The artist recalled some of the poignant moments, including when she broke down in tears in front of her therapist who she had not seen in three years.

She also said that on the final day, her mother visited her and they shared a cigarette together.

Speaking to MailOnline about the performance, Skarin explained: '"Actor in a Cage" was a 73-hour long theatre performance that examined the relationship between my personal identity and my role as an actor.

'I aimed to see if I could free myself from the social contract by merging my personal self with my artistic self. To do this I entered a cage. Everything I did there was part of the theatrical production.

'Each person in the audience was required to leave a gift to me through a hatch. Those gifts became the scenography and props for the performance.

Skarin started off in the cage with nothing but a camping toilet, some toilet paper and a microphone

The artist was performing for an audience who regularly applauded her during the three day exhibition

Tickets ranged from 11 to 20 but permitted members of the audience to provide Skarin with a gift

'The piece became highly collective and the gifts became significant factors in the performance.'

She continued: 'On the final day, my psychoanalyst whom I had not seen in three years, attended the performance. At that point, I was highly emotional and vulnerable, standing half-naked in front of him, crying.

'The audience was confused as to who this man was, and a conversation started about art, life, chaos and madness.

'People laughed and cried. The last day my mother entered the piece, and we had a cigarette together.'

This is the moment that Skarin suddenly emerged outside of the cage and walked towards the audience

Describing the exhibition's concept on their website, the group behind 'Actor in a Cage' said: 'During the three days, the cage transforms from a solitary work into a work with traces of all the people who have been there.'

They added: 'Is it possible to create theatre at the same time out of nothing and on demand? When is the actor an artist and when is she a man?'

Tickets ranged from 11 to 20 but permitted members of the audience to provide Skarin with a gift. Visitors were allowed to give the artist anything except from something 'living'.

While those with tickets could go in and watch Skarin's three days of isolation, others could watch the performance on a live stream on the street outside.
AFT Pharmaceuticals (NZX.AFT, ASX.AFP) today announces it has submitted to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) data the regulator requested as it considers registration of the companys patented intravenous pain relief medicine Maxigesic IV.

In a delay to the registration of the medicine in the US, the FDA requested in July 2022 additional data on the performance of Maxigesic IVs primary packaging (the glass vial in which the medicine is stored and the vials stopper).

AFT along with its commercialisation partner Belgiums Hyloris Pharmaceuticals has over the last year collated the data and submitted today.

AFT Managing Director Dr Hartley Atkinson said: We believe the data we have submitted will satisfy the FDAs requirements and remove the outstanding hurdle to registration. All going well we anticipate registration of the medicine this year and sales to follow shortly after.

Maxigesic IV, is a novel, unique combination of 1000mg paracetamol and 300mg ibuprofen solution for infusion, for the treatment of post-operative pain. It has been developed in collaboration with Hyloris and is currently licensed in more than 100 countries across the globe. It has also been registered in 43 countries and launched in 19 countries including Australia, France, Germany, and Korea. The medicine is protected by several granted patents and pending patent applications.

Released for and on behalf of AFT Pharmaceuticals by Malcolm Tubby, Chief Financial Officer

Dr Hartley Atkinson Richard Inder

Managing Director The Project

AFT Pharmaceuticals Tel: +64 21 645 643

Tel: +64 9488 0232

Released for and on behalf of AFT Pharmaceuticals by Malcolm Tubby, Chief Financial Officer

About AFT Pharmaceuticals

AFT is a growing multinational pharmaceutical company that develops, markets, and distributes a broad portfolio of pharmaceutical products across a wide range of therapeutic categories which are distributed across all major pharmaceutical distribution channels: over the counter (OTC), prescription and hospital. Our product portfolio comprises both proprietary and in-licensed products, and includes patented, branded, and generic drugs. Our business model is to develop and in-license products for sale by our own dedicated sales teams in our home markets of Australia and New Zealand and in certain Southeast Asian markets, and to out-license our products to local licensees and distributors to the rest of the world. For more information: aftpharm.com[

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The police's use of stop-and-search measures is essential despite them overly affecting ethnic minorities, the equalities minister has insisted.

Kemi Badenoch said the tactic was a 'vital tool' in tackling violence and said progress has been made on reducing the race disparity.

However, policing bodies are also implementing new safety training for officers so they can use 'de-escalation and communication skills' when searching suspects.

Now-Equalities Minister Kemi Badenoch speaking on stage during the Conservative Party annual conference at the International Convention Centre in Birmingham in October 2022

Kemi Badenoch leaving 10 Downing Street, London, after a Cabinet meeting on 28 March 2023

Last month's scathing Baroness Casey report into Scotland Yard called for a 'fundamental reset' of the use of stop-and-search while the Children's Commissioner found that those as young as eight are being strip-searched.

In her foreword to an update on the Government's Inclusive Britain strategy, which includes 74 actions aimed at ending ethnic disparities, Mrs Badenoch wrote: 'There is more work to be done to tackle disparities and build trust in our police forces.

'The progress we have made in criminal justice is strong.

'The stop-and-search disparity between the black and white ethnic groups has decreased substantially from 8.8 times higher in the year ending March 2020 to 4.9 times higher in the year to March 2022.

'But stop-and-search remains a vital tool to tackle the most serious crimes, which can disproportionately impact ethnic minorities.'
Authorities are investigating whether it was taken for a trophy

A decapitated crocodile found in far north Queensland has sparked an urgent investigation as wildlife warriors fear it was 'hacked off' for a 'trophy'.

Photographer Tom Hayes made the shocking discovery at Cow Bay, north of Cairns, last week.

He had little doubt that a human was to blame for the headless croc.

'I just saw the body of this beautiful, big old male crocodile laying there,' he said.

'When I got up closer, there was evidence of machete marks across his back.

'They're not marks made by a male crocodile that has attacked him.

'I just think it's disgusting - whether he was shot and mutilated, or found dead and mutilated, it doesn't matter.'

Wildlife officials are investigating a headless crocodile (pictured) which was found on a beach with fears it may have been hacked off for a trophy or to be sold for thousands of dollars

The headless 4m crocodile was found last Thursday on Cow Bay Beach, north of Cairns with the Queensland environment department commencing an investigation into the incident

The Queensland Environment Department has commenced an investigation into the beheading, but has been unable to determine the cause.

They say it could be foul play but it also could be an attack by a rival crocodile.

In Australia there is a market for crocodile skulls and heads with the trophies being sold for as much as $9900 on marketplaces

Anyone found guilty of decapitating a crocodile would be slapped with a $14000 fine for breaching wildlife laws

The charge of mutilating a crocodile in Queensland is a $14,000 fine as it is in breach of wildlife laws.

In the Northern Territory crocs can only be killed by licensed hunters under the territory's crocodile management program. Skulls are sold for up to $4800.
Humza Yousaf has been accused of tying himself in knots after rejecting calls to suspend Nicola Sturgeon.

The First Minister yesterday jumped to the defence of his predecessor despite growing uncertainty about her political future after footage emerged showing she tried to suppress discussion about the SNPs finances.

Mr Yousaf said there was no reason to suspend her or for her to stand down as an MSP, and he also confirmed that he would not seek to speak to her directly about the partys finances because of the ongoing police probe.

Critics said yesterday Ms Sturgeon should not go into hiding to avoid scrutiny after it was confirmed she will not attend the Scottish parliament in person this week.

Humza Yousaf (pictured in Dundee, Scotland yesterday) has been accused of tying himself in knots after rejecting calls to suspend Nicola Sturgeon

The First Minister yesterday jumped to the defence of his predecessor Nicola Sturgeon (pictured yesterday outside her Glasgow home) despite growing uncertainty about her political future after footage emerged showing she tried to suppress discussion about the SNPs finances

Scottish Conservative chairman Craig Hoy said: Humza Yousaf is getting himself tied in knots over this issue.

How can he refuse to countenance suspending Nicola Sturgeon, when he has not even spoken to her about the SNPs murky finances and is vowing not to do so? A cynic might say that he doesnt want to ask questions in case he gets uncomfortable answers.

The obvious thing to do would be to suspend Nicola Sturgeon unless and until she is cleared. That is the precedent the SNP set in the cases of Michelle Thomson and Natalie McGarry.

He added: The former First Minister and her former chief executive husband should not get special treatment when they have such serious questions to answer.

Video footage leaked to the Sunday Mail of a March 2021 meeting of the SNPs national executive committee showed Ms Sturgeon furiously insisting that her partys finances had never been stronger.

She also told members of the ruling body to just be very careful about suggestions there are problems with the partys finances, because we depend on donors.

It also emerged that she personally refused to open up the SNPs finances to extra scrutiny by rejecting calls from senior officials to appoint a fundraising manager.

Asked about whether he anticipated any prospect of Ms Sturgeon resigning as an MSP, Mr Yousaf said: No, no, and she would have no reason to resign at all.

Her husband has been questioned under caution  admittedly thats a significant event.

But we are far past the time, I think, of judging what a woman does based on what happens to her husband.

On calls for her to be suspended, he said: No, not at all. I see no reason for that whatsoever.

Ian Blackfor (left) was likened to former Iraqi information minister Comical Ali (right) after claiming the SNP is solvent at the moment and insisting a 107,620 loan to the party from former chief executive Peter Murrell was normal

An SNP source has said Ms Sturgeon was likely to stand down sooner rather than later amid the controversy about party finances. Pictured: Nicola Sturgeon leaves her home in Glasgow and climbs into a waiting car on Sunday

It was confirmed yesterday that Ms Sturgeon will only take part in Scottish parliament proceedings remotely this week in order to ensure the focus is on the new First Minister.

Last month, she revealed she had started driving lessons to allow her more personal freedom, telling a BBC Sounds podcast: Its just part and parcel of the next phase of life.

The Scottish Tories urged her not to use remote working as an excuse to go into hiding.

Responding to speculation that Ms Sturgeon is set to quit as an MSP, a spokesman for the former SNP leader said: Nicola Sturgeon made clear when she resigned as First Minister that it is her intention to remain as the SNP MSP for Glasgow Southside, and that remains the case.

'In order to ensure the focus of this week is on the new First Minister setting out his priorities for the people of Scotland, Ms Sturgeon has always intended to participate remotely and intends to return to Holyrood in the near future.

Asked about talks with Ms Sturgeon, Mr Yousaf said: Nicola and I will of course speak but what we wont speak about is the police investigation. Nicola and I both know that we cant speak about that, nor would it be appropriate for us to speak about that.

Asked if he would speak to her about any aspect of the SNP finances, he said: I just think that while a live police investigation is going on, it would be inappropriate to do. I think that would be, as I say, by any measure an inappropriate thing to do.

Pressed on whether he would ask Ms Sturgeon why the SNPs auditors quit, he said: In some respects these are legitimate questions, absolutely, to ask but Im very focused on the future.

Former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon returns home after an apparent 2 hour driving lesson at her home in Glasgow yesterday

Im very focused on getting auditors in place right now. Mr Yousaf defended the comments Ms Sturgeon made about party finances in the 2021 video, saying it was prior to the May 2021 Holyrood election, when the party would have spent substantial amounts of money.

He said: You fundraise in advance for an election, you tend to spend a fair bit of money during an election, and after an election, of course, is when you want to make sure that you can address any cashflow issues that you might have as a result of that big spend during an election.

So I wasnt particularly disturbed at all by the video in the way that some of our opponents seem to be.

The Daily Telegraph quoted an SNP source saying Ms Sturgeon was likely to stand down sooner rather than later amid the controversy about party finances.

BLACKFORDS BLUSTERING LIKE AN SNP COMICAL ALI By Tom Eden Deputy Scottish Political Editor Ian Blackford was ridiculed yesterday after downplaying the financial chaos engulfing the SNP. The Nationalist MP was likened to former Iraqi information minister Comical Ali after claiming the SNP is solvent at the moment and insisting a 107,620 loan to the party from former chief executive Peter Murrell was normal. Police are investigating allegations of missing donations raised to fight a referendum campaign, with officers raiding the home of Mr Murrell and his wife Nicola Sturgeon. Mr Murrell was questioned and released without charge pending further investigation. It then emerged that the SNPs auditors had dropped the party as their client last September  a fact that was apparently only told to new leader Humza Yousaf last month. Ian Blackford (pictured in October 2022) was likened to former Iraqi information minister Comical Ali after claiming the SNP is solvent at the moment and insisting a 107,620 loan to the party from former chief executive Peter Murrell was normal Mr Blackford was the SNP Westminster leader when accountancy firm Johnston Carmichael severed its decade-long working relationship with the party. Yesterday he claimed he was told towards the tail end of last year about the firm walking away, having previously said he had forgotten when he had first found out. Scottish Tory chairman Craig Hoy compared the Ross, Skye and Lochaber MP to Saddam Husseins propagandist, who in 2003 denied that invading US tanks were in Baghdad as journalists watched them a few hundred yards away. He said: Ian Blackford is fast resembling an SNP version of Comical Ali with his ridiculous assurance everything is fine when everyone can see the opposite is true. For the second day running he has insisted that the SNPs treasurer had been the victim of selective reporting when he was quoted directly stating the party was struggling to balance its books. Blackford was again evasive when asked about when he found out the SNPs auditors had resigned and when he informed his successor as Westminster leader, Stephen Flynn, of this. This secrecy and bluster has to stop. Ian Blackford, like Nicola Sturgeon and Peter Murrell, must be totally up front about all aspects of this mounting scandal. Speaking to the BBC yesterday, Mr Blackford, who was ousted by Mr Flynn in December, tried to paint the financial scandal engulfing the SNP as a media frenzy and denied the party was broke. Asked whether he informed Mr Flynn about the auditors stepping down, despite the looming deadline to submit the SNP accounts by May 31  an issue that could cost the partys Westminster group 1million in public funding  Mr Blackford again dodged the question. He suggested his deputy, SNP business convener Kirsten Oswald, could have been responsible for informing Mr Flynn and a very firm and detailed briefing was given to Stephen and his team. He added: All appropriate information to do with the finances of the Westminster group has been handed over to those that have responsibility for that. The SNP did not respond to questions about when Mr Flynn discovered the accountants had refused to do his partys audited accounts. Advertisement
Anthony Albanese has hit back after he was accused of ignoring warnings children were being returned to live with their sexual abusers in the Northern Territory.

The Prime Minister came under fire after Opposition leader Peter Dutton claimed last week Mr Albanese had been made aware of the issue 'last year'.

He said at a press conference in Alice Springs it was 'accepted as normal practice' that young Indigenous victims were being sent back to live with their abusers.

Mr Albanese broke his silence on Monday night rejecting the claim made by the Liberal leader.

Indigenous Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa also accused Mr Albanese, his Labor colleagues and the ABC of a 'dog act' and ignoring the issue in the region.

Anthony Albanese has hit back after he was accused of ignoring warnings children were being returned to live with their sexual abusers in the Northern Territory

She unleashed her anger in a social media post agreeing with an article by conservative pundit Andrew Bolt.

'The "dog act" is the act of denial of the sexual abuse of Australia's most marginalised children,' she wrote on Facebook on Monday.

'The Labor governments everywhere, (Patricia) Karvelas and her ABC want a Voice to parliament all the while they ignore, undermine and deny the voices of victims of sexual abuse because they are Aboriginal children.

'Had we been talking about abuse of children in Catholic Church's the tables would be turned.'

'This is widespread gaslighting from our governments and their ABC.'

Mr Albanese was pressed on the matter on ABC's 7.30 program with host Sarah Ferguson questioning whether he had been made aware of the claims.

'Peter Dutton says that you were made aware of abused children being returned to their abusers,' she said.

'This is a very serious allegation. The inference was that you failed to act. Is that true?'

Mr Albanese immediately shut down the claim with a blunt response.

'No,' he said.

Harris asked whether Mr Dutton had 'made that fact up'.

'I don't regard it as a fact,' Mr Albanese said.

He conceded there 'may well have been a letter somewhere' but insisted it was the first he had heard of it and Mr Dutton had not raised any specific issue with him.

Indigenous Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa also accused Mr Albanese, his Labor colleagues and the ABC of a 'dog act' and ignoring the issue in the region

The central Northern Territory town of Alice Springs has made national headlines with claims of rampant crime and child sex abuse

Mr Albanese said such allegations were a police matter as he accused Mr Dutton of point scoring.

'The tragedy here is that serious issues like the abuse of children that Peter Dutton or myself or I would hope any member of parliament has a uniform abhorrence of, shouldn't be used as a political issue,' he said.

'If there are any allegations, they should be reported to the police.'

Senator Price, who accompanied Mr Dutton to Alice Springs, earlier had poured scorn on Mr Albanese's denials he didn't know about the plight of Indigenous children.

'You're welcome to come back to Alice Springs for a full brief Prime Minister!' she wrote on Monday.

'You don't recall Peter Dutton inviting you back in October?

'You may have to stay a night or two though.'

Her comment was a jibe against Mr Albanese and his whirlwind visit to Alice Springs in January.

The Prime Minister had flown out in response to public outcry over rampant crime before leaving a few hours later.

Mr Dutton claimed last week children were being 'put back into the hands of the abuser' as 'normal practice'.

Senator Price did not hold back in a Facebook post where she said Aboriginal children were being ignored

Mr Albanese's claims that he has not been made aware of Aboriginal children being handed back to abusers drew a scornful reply from Senator Price

'There is nothing in the Indigenous culture that makes that acceptable,' Mr Dutton said.

'Yet here, somehow it's accepted as normal practice and we're destroying the lives of those young Indigenous kids and it's unacceptable.

'The Prime Minister needs to take responsibility. He was made aware of it last year.'

Labor's Northern Territory Police Minister Kate Worden on Sunday accused Mr Dutton and Senator Price of failing to report their repeated claims of child sex abuse claims to police.

'If they want to make allegations like that, they need to come forward with evidence  you can't just claim these things and then walk away,' Ms Worden said.

'This is classic 'drop a bomb and walk away' [scenario].'

Senator Price said that she and Mr Dutton were referring to cases where the reporting had been done and were known to the Territory's authorities.
A mother and daughter who had their home partially destroyed by a truck were dealt yet another blow by some 'low life' thieves who robbed their vacant, half-destroyed house.

Anna and Amy Nati had thousands of dollars worth of items stolen from their home in Launceston, Tasmania in early April after a semi-trailer ploughed through their house on March 22.

The family were already reeling from the truck crash, with their pet cat killed and their home partially demolished by the truck.

Repairs had yet to begin on the house - which they no longer feels like home - when cruel thieves struck.

Meanwhile, Amy was recently diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma, a type of cancer, and is terminally ill.

Amy (left) and Anna Nati (right) have launched a GoFundMe after their old home was destroyed in March before being burgled in April

The driver of a De Bruyn's truck suffered a medical episode behind the wheel in Invermay, Launceston, veering off the road and into the house

Over $2,000 worth of Amy's Disney collectables were stolen from the property, along with hundreds of DVDs and boxes of letters which were written by her daughter that Anna had been saving.

After shifting between three homes in three weeks since the crash, the family never imagined they would become victims of crime.

'I mean, who does that? You often hear about when there's floods and people going through homes and stuff and you just think: low-life,' Anna told Seven News.

'Now since all this we walk in and there's nothing there anymore, it's cold, it's not our home.'

The pair had just celebrated a one-year anniversary of moving into their house in Invermay, Launceston before being forced to leave it while awaiting repairs.

'Amy has cancer and she doesn't have a great deal of time left and to be surrounded by her things is important to her.

'(It) would've been lovely for me when she's gone to sit there and just reminisce and remember Amy,' Anna said.

'It would just mean the world to us to have those things back.

'Just have a heart and think about our situation.'

So far, over a week later, none of the items have been recovered by the family.

Daily Mail Australia has reached out to Tasmanian Police for updates on the case.

Since the crash, repairs on their Invermay property are yet to begin and a boarded up hole has allowed thieves to loot it easily

Amy and Anna Nati are asking for thieves to 'have a heart' and return the stolen items

A GoFundMe organised by family friends Cassie and Marcia is seeking $4,000 to help them pay a bond for permanent housing while they recover from the tragedies.

So far, $1,900 has been collected in less than 24 hours.

The money will primarily cover their bond, with any extra funds being spent on appliances while insurance claims on the old house are processed.

Last month, the driver of the semi-trailer suffered a medical episode behind the wheel.

He veered off the road before slamming into an oncoming car and colliding into Anna's home. He died afterwards.

The passenger of a white Toyota Corolla which was struck by the truck was rushed to Launceston General Hospital with serious injuries.
A controversial councillor has told a meeting to 'F*** off' in a foul-mouthed videolink outburst from her car, just weeks after she sparked outrage by posting a Nazi meme.

Cr Severina Burner and Cr Grace Bawden teleconferenced in from a vehicle in the car park outside City of Salisbury Council chambers in Adelaide's north.

But Cr Burner became incensed during a vote when she demanded to know more details of a motion they opposed.

They complained they were being made to 'look like idiots' and later claimed they were being made to stand up to cast their vote, despite being seated inside a car.

Cr Burner exploded: 'Both of us do not want to participate as long as you guys continue to screw us around like this. Enough is enough.'

She was cut off by Deputy Mayor Chad Buchanan who called for order, before Cr Burner told the meeting to 'f*** off' and then pulled the plug on her videolink.

Councillor Severina Burner (pictured) told the meeting to 'f*** off' before pulling the plug on her videolink into the council chambers

Cr Severina Burner and Cr Grace Bawden teleconferenced in from a vehicle in the car park outside City of Salisbury Council chambers in Adelaide's north (pictured)

Cr Buchanan told the meeting: 'The audio explains what's just transpired...'

'I was actually shocked at first,' he told Daily Mail Australia.

'In 20 years of chairing meetings, Ive never heard an elected member tell colleagues and staff where to go during a formal meeting.

'Not only was the use of that language disrespectful and unprofessional, but the constant poor behaviour displayed during formal meetings is nothing short of deplorable conduct.

'Residents and businesses rightly expect a level professionalism and courtesy from their elected members and this behaviour falls far short of community expectations.'

Mayor Gillian Aldridge added: 'One of the things that we believe in is respect, and it's very disappointing that there was no respect shown that night.'

Cr Burner and Cr Bawden - who are aunt and niece - referred all calls from Daily Mail Australia to their lawyer.

A legal letter later claimed there were several complaints under investigation and the pair 'are statute barred and prohibited from discussing...the subject of complaint'.

But Cr Bawden told The Adelaide Advertiser they had been expected to physically stand up to vote while sat in the car at the time.

Cr Burner was in her car because she has allegedly been banned from attending meetings in person because of previous incidents, said a council insider.

Cr Bawden was said to be joining her in the videolink from the vehicle as a gesture of support for her relative.

'We were just doing our jobs and trying to do it in a way where we don't have to be in the room,' she said.

'I wasn't happy about being antagonised about standing up for a division when I couldn't stand up, clearly, because I was sitting in a car.

'That's how ridiculous this has gotten.'

She said the pair had felt 'ridiculed, bullied and harassed' at the council meetings.

'Any other workplace would not put up with this,' she added. 'No one pulls up any of the other councillors who bully and intimidate and harass us.

'My concerns dont matter, they dont care how I feel.'

The row erupted just a month after Cr Burner was condemned for posting a Nazi-themed meme on social media.

The picture showed a boy imitating the Nazi symbol with his hands outstretched and legs bent with a caption from Cr Burner saying: 'We are not alone. Personal views'.

The meme caption read: 'Me when I'm asked to apologise for being right', with the final word overlaid on the word 'white'.

The image posted to social media shows a man imitating the Nazi symbol with a caption from Councillor Severina Burner saying, 'We are not alone. Personal views' (pictured)

The council condemned the post in a motion that 'strongly' denounced the post for its 'disturbing' references to the Nazi regime, fascism and white supremacy.

It expressed the council's dismay and said the image would affect communities in the northern suburbs with connections to victims of the Nazi persecution during World War II.

The motion was passed unanimously, with Cr Burner and Cr Bawden not attending the meeting.

'We are united in not tolerating this behaviour,' Mayor Aldridge added.

Adelaide Holocaust Museum chair Greg Adams said elected officials need to be held to the highest standards.

The Advertiser said Cr Burner told a reporter to 'get f*****', after the news outlet contacted her.
The Victorian government has been accused of ignoring a warning about trouble in the residential construction sector months before Porter Davis collapsed.

In July last year the Department of Treasury and Finance briefed then housing minister Danny Pearson about insolvencies in the residential construction industry and options to minimise risks for customers, the state opposition said.

Since then, more than 530 construction businesses in the state have become insolvent, including almost 150 specifically in residential construction.

Despite that, the Andrews government hasn't enacted industry reforms, opposition spokeswoman for home ownership Jess Wilson said.

The Victorian government has been accused of ignoring a warning about trouble in the residential construction sector months before Porter Davis collapsed

The briefing was revealed in documents obtained by the opposition through Freedom of Information laws.

'As a consequence of this mismanagement, potentially hundreds of hard-working Victorians are trapped with half-built homes or have lost their deposits and won't have the insurance they are entitled to,' Ms Wilson said.

'Homebuyers who have lost deposits deserve to know why the Andrews government ignored options to better protect consumers.'

Premier Daniel Andrews on Tuesday accused the opposition of playing political games in the wake of the Porter Davis demise, saying he was instead focused on supporting those customers left heartbroken by the company's collapse.

He said authorities had to properly diagnose the issues before the government could step in to help customers.

'I'll make announcements soon and they will be meaningful, and they will be the government standing with those customers who have been treated appallingly,' Mr Andrews told reporters.

'Then, of course, we will take whatever action we can against anyone who's done the wrong thing.

'There is a mounting case to demonstrate that there's some people in that business who have done the wrong thing.'

Mr Andrews said the business falling over for the want of $35 million indicated something went deeply wrong.

Porter Davis homebuyers are asking why they weren't insured as required by law, including Richard Williams, who lost his $40,000 deposit when the company went under.

Despite legislation in place to ensure he was insured, domestic building insurance was not taken out on his behalf, meaning there is no legal recourse to recoup his money.

It would have cost Porter Davis less than $1000 to insure his build.

Premier Daniel Andrews on Tuesday accused the opposition of playing political games in the wake of the Porter Davis demise, saying he was instead focused on supporting those customers left heartbroken by the company's collapse

It is estimated 800 families have lost on average between $30,000 and $50,000 simply because they were not insured.

The Victorian Building Authority is investigating whether Porter Davis may have breached any laws.

About 1,700 homes across Victoria and Queensland were left in limbo when the company went into liquidation last month.

Liquidators Grant Thornton on Monday confirmed Nostra Property Group would complete up to 375 of the houses left in limbo after the Porter Davis collapse.

On Sunday, dozens of Porter Davis customers rallied on the steps of Victoria's parliament, calling for more support from the government.

Many said they needed financial and legal assistance to help navigate their next steps, as well as getting their deposits back.

Deputy Premier Jacinta Allan said the government was still assessing what steps it could take to support affected customers.

'When there's further detail to announce, we will make those announcements,' she told ABC Radio Melbourne on Monday.
A murdered father raised his hands in defence before he was held down and stabbed to death, a court has heard.

Ricky Rowlands, 46, died after he was stabbed three times on the evening of October 10, 2020 near the Ibis Hotel in Melbourne's CBD, which was being used to house the homeless during Covid-19 lockdowns.

Mr Rowlands ex-partner Candice Harper, her new partner Jamie Holt and his friend Benjamin McCartin were convicted of murder after a five week trial at the end of last year.

Harper was labelled a 'dog' and told to 'rot' by supporters of the victim as she was lead by security from the dock to the exit of the court.

Ricky Rowlands, 46, died after he was stabbed three times on the evening of October 10, 2020 near the Ibis Hotel in Melbourne's CBD, which was being used to house the homeless during Covid-19 lockdowns

Mr Rowlands ex-partner Candice Harper was among the trio jailed over the murder

Justice Stephen Kaye, who sentenced Harper and McCartin in the Supreme Court on Tuesday, imposed lengthy terms of imprisonment on the pair for what he described as an attack by three people on an unarmed person.

In his sentencing remarks, Justice Kaye said McCartin stabbed Mr Rowlands in the lower back, chest and abdomen in a fight that occurred near the intersection of King and Bourke Sts at about 9:30pm, with the final two wounds inflicted as he was constrained by his ex-partner and Holt.

The court heard that Harper 'berated' the man with whom she shared a daughter, who was in the public gallery for her mother's sentence, for 60 seconds while he lay bleeding profusely on the ground.

Mr Rowlands was rushed to The Royal Melbourne Hospital where he underwent emergency surgery, but his injuries were deemed to be unsurvivable and he died at about 6am the following morning.

McCartin fled the hotel that night via a fire escape after changing his clothes but was arrested four days later, while Harper and Holt were arrested on the night of the incident.

The court heard that Harper, McCartin and Holt were all living at the Ibis Hotel during lockdown, while Mr Rowlands was living with his daughter in the inner-city suburb of Princes Hill.

On the night of his murder Mr Rowlands had ventured into the CBD and to the Ibis Hotel in a state of intoxication, and had been encouraged multiple times to leave by Harper, the court heard.

But the court heard her attitude towards her former partner, with whom she had been in relationship for four years in the early 2000s, changed when he had slung her into the ground during the course of the argument which claimed his life moments later.

Justice Kaye said Harper had made attempts to diffuse the situation, and found her moral culpability to be less than that of McCartin's.

Benjamin McCartin was led out of a prison van ahead of a pre-sentence hearing

Candice Harper's new partner Jamie Holt will be sentenced at a later date

Harper, 46, was sentenced to 18 years prison for Mr Rowlands' murder with a 13 year non-parole period.

The court heard she has previous offences from the Magistrates' jurisdiction, but had not been to prison prior to this incident.

The court heard McCartin, 43, had an extensive criminal history that had included multiple terms of imprisonment.

Addressing him, Justice Kaye said 'it was you who took the lead and advanced on Rowlands,' and said he had 'lined him up' prior to stabbing him.

McCartin was sentenced to 22 years prison with a non-parole period of 16 years.

He was labelled 'fatboy' as he was led out of the court by a supporter of Mr Rowlands.

The court heard that Holt's sentencing had been adjourned while more psychological assessments were carried out.
The niece of notorious Melbourne drug lord Tony Mokbel has tragically died in a car accident in Melbourne.

Keana Mokbel, 25, died when her vehicle ploughed into a tree on Southern Road in Heidelberg West at about 8.50pm on Sunday.

Ms Mokbel's uncle Tony is currently is serving a 30-year jail term for drug trafficking.

He has been made aware of the incident and has spoken with his grieving family.

Keana Mokbel (pictured) sadly died when her vehicle ploughed into a tree on Southern Road in Heidelberg West, in northeast Melbourne, at about 8.50pm on Sunday

Tony Mokbel, known for his involvement in Melbourne's 'Underbelly' drug wars, has been made aware of the incident and has spoken with family (he is pictured in February, 2006)

The notorious drug lord, who is fighting his convictions, is not expected to make an application to attend his niece's funeral, which is yet to be finalised.

The 57-year-old was rushed from Barwon Prison to hospital last month to receive urgent treatment, reportedly for a blood clot.

Meanwhile, tributes continue to flow for his niece, who has been described as a 'pocket rocket' with an infectious smile.

'I'm gonna miss your silly laugh, your 1 hour story times, your 100 snapchats that you'd send me every day, your presence, your love and most of all you,' Odeta Lame wrote alongside a series of photos of the pair.

'You called me your angel the other day and now you've become mine. I love you my twin flame and you'll always hold a special place in my heart.'

'You were such a light and made an imprint in everyone's life,' Rini Menidis wrote.

'You always stood up for me and had my back. I always looked up to you like you were my big sister. You will forever be in my heart my girl.'

'You've left too many people behind that I don't know how to do life without you,' Helena Katsouranis said.

'I thank god for the time I got to spend with you, not many people meet such a natural ray of sunshine like you were.'

Tributes have begun to flow for Tony Mokbel's niece (pictured left) who was described as a 'pocket rocket' with an infectious smile that 'lit up the universe'

'The way your smile lit up the entire universe was infectious, you would bring my mood to your level of joy in moments of being around you,' Joesphine Fotiadis said.

Savva Pappas said Ms Mokbel was 'one of the most beautiful people God put on this planet' and that his heart had been broken into pieces.

Our Lady of Lebanon, a church in Thornbury, inner-city Melbourne, posted a tribute to Ms Mokbel to its Facebook page on Tuesday.

'Dear Parishioners. Sadly, a member of our Community here in Melbourne has passed away; Kalliopi Keana Mokbel,' it read.

'Her Funeral is still being finalised. We will confirm once we get the details.

'Our thoughts and prayers are with Kalliopi's family at this difficult time. May she Rest in Eternal Peace.'

Victoria Police said a report would be prepared for the Coroner.
A school district in Ohio says it plans to try and respond to America's wave of school shootings by taking advantage of a new law allowing trained teachers and staff to be armed.

River Valley Local School District in Caledonia will allow it's four buildings to have teachers armed after proper training, one of 23 in the state that's taking advantage of a law signed by Governor Mike DeWine in 2022.

Superintendent Adam Wickham said he won't allow his students and staff to be left unprotected.

'Our schools will no longer be soft targets and unprotected,' Adam Wickham said. 'Most active-shooter events occur in areas of 'gun-free zones' or with minimal safety measures in place. We want to ensure our schools will not be soft targets.'

Wickham emphasized the need for safe gun use in response to a potential shooter in rural Caledonia, which has a population of just 560.

Superintendent Adam Wickham (pictured) is a proud proponent of the policy

River Valley Local School District in Caledonia will allow it's four buildings to have teachers armed after proper training, one of 23 in the state that's taking advantage of a law signed by Governor Mike DeWine in 2022.

'As a rural community, response times can often be minutes away in the event of an active shooter,' Wickham told the Marion Star. 'The use of armed staff in our buildings can potentially save lives by providing a more immediate response to the threat.'

He specifically cited shootings in recent years in Nashville, Uvalde and Parkland where several children and teachers were killed.

'[They] clearly show that the quicker the response time, the more likely you are to potentially save lives,' he said.

In addition to potentially armed staff, the local sheriff's office will have nan armed staff member and a school resource officer at the high school, middle school and two elementary schools in town.

'Some have expressed questions about the training and selection process,' Wickham said.

'The vast majority of parents have expressed appreciation for the proactive approach in protecting their children. That is really a main reason for adopting the use of armed staff.'

Wickham knows that not everyone will be in favor of this but that 'every safety measure we take at River Valley, including the use of armed staff, is put in place to try and ensure our staff and students can go home safely to their families and loved ones each and every day.'

DeWine signed House Bill 99 permitting teachers to be armed with 24 hours of training despite Democrats arguing the proposal, which is optional for schools, sends the wrong message.

People are brought out of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School after a shooting at the school that reportedly killed and injured multiple people on February 14, 2018 in Parkland, Florida

This handout video grab image courtesy of the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department released on March 27, 2023, shows suspect Audrey Hale holding an assault rifle at the Covenant School building at the Covenant Presbyterian Church, in Nashville, Tennessee

Police Chief Pete Arredondo at left. Police deploy in a hallway after Salvador Ramos entered Robb Elementary school to kill 19 children and two teachers in Uvalde, Texas

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine (pictured center) signed House Bill 99 permitting teachers to be armed with 24 hours of training despite Democrats arguing the proposal, which is optional for schools, sends the wrong message

The bill aims to protect children by ensuring instruction is specific to schools and including significant scenario-based training, DeWine said when he announced his support.

The measure was opposed by major law enforcement groups, gun control advocates, and the states teachers unions, which asked DeWine to veto the measure. Its supported by a handful of police departments and school districts.

Wickham has promised that his school district will follow it's own policy of requiring 50 total hours of training for anyone wanting to be armed.
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Victorian Yarra Trams driver told all passengers to get off

Video has emerged of the moment a tram driver told everyone on board to get off after he became too overwhelmed while on the job.

The Melbourne driver's Friday evening shift became too much for him while he was behind the wheel of a Yarra Trams D-class tram.

Footage of the incident was uploaded to social media, alongside the caption: 'When your tram driver tells everyone to get off because he's stressed and doesn't want to drive anymore'.

It is understood the driver stopped the tram as he felt it was unsafe to continue because he was too stressed and anxious to do his job safely.

A spokesperson for Yarra Trams confirmed the incident and told Daily Mail Australia: 'The safety of our staff and passengers is our number one priority - and we're offering our full support to the driver involved.'

The Melbourne driver's Friday evening shift became too much for him while behind the wheel of a Yarra Trams D-class tram so he told travellers to disembark as he was too stressed and anxious to safely carry out his duties (pictured: Travellers disembarking Melbourne tram)

A passenger said she thought the whole ordeal was funny but hoped the driver was okay.

Many Aussies commended the worker for putting his mental health first.

'Good for him, a king putting his mental health first,' one said.

'Multiple car and plane crashes have happened because people insist they're fit to operate when they're not. Massive props to this guy for recognizing it,' another added.

'I hope he's doing okay. And I'm glad he actually spoke up instead of continuing to drive not in the right state of mind,' a third said.
The home's owner allegedly fired several shots at the car without provocation

Gillis and a friend mistakenly went to the wrong address and were fired upon

Kaylin Gillis, 20, was shot and killed on Saturday night in upstate New York

A woman who was inside a car that pulled into the wrong driveway in upstate New York was shot and killed by the homeowner who fired at the vehicle.

Kaylin Gillis, 20, and three friends were headed to a home in rural Washington County on Saturday when they accidentally entered Kevin Monahan's driveway in Hebron.

Monahan, 65, according to the Washington County Sheriff's Office, fired two shots from his porch at the car, one of which struck Gillis who was still in the vehicle.

'This is a very sad case of some young adults that were looking for a friend's house and ended up at this man's house,' said Sheriff Jeff Murphy on Monday.

Monahan has been charged with second-degree murder.

Kaylin Gillis, 20, and three friends were headed to a home in rural Washington County when they accidentally entered the wrong driveway in Hebron, New York

Kevin Monahan, 65, according to the Washington County Sheriff's Office, fired two shots from his porch at the car, one of which struck Gillis who was still in the vehicle

During his press conference on Monday, Murphy spoke to a group of reporters and Gillis's family.

The sheriff said the group did not initially realize they were at the wrong address but that they had started to pull out when the homeowner allegedly began shooting.

'While they were leaving the residence, once they determined they were at the wrong house, the subject came out on his porch for whatever reason and fired two shots. One which struck the vehicle that Kaylin was in,' Murphy said.

Due to the incident happening in a rural area, the friends could not immediately call 911 for help.

The group had to drive miles to a nearby town in order to call first responders.

The Washington County sheriff said Monahan was taken into custody only after officers had a 'back-and-forth' with him.

'He was uncooperative with patrols on the scene. After approximately more than an hour of talking back and forth, he was taken into custody,' said Murphy.

The sheriff did not comment on the weapon used but said investigators do not believe Monahan had any reason to think he was in danger.

'There was no reason for Mr. Monahan to feel threatened, especially as it appears the vehicles were leaving at the time,' Murphy added.

He's currently being held at the Warren County Jail.

A woman who was inside a car that pulled into the wrong driveway in upstate New York Saturday was shot and killed by the homeowner who fired at the vehicle without provocation

The group had to drive miles to a nearby town in order to call first responders

'I know for a fact that she comes from a good family. A very good family and I know them personally and she's young girl that was taken way too young,' Sheriff Jeff Murphy said

Friends remembered Gillis over the weekend as a gentle soul who loved animals

Friends remembered Gillis over the weekend as a gentle soul who loved animals.

'I know for a fact that she comes from a good family. A very good family and I know them personally and she's young girl that was taken way too young,' Murphy said.

'Kaylin Gillis, you will be greatly missed,' wrote Chuchay Stark in a Facebook tribute.

'I've known you since your Barbie days with my kids. Since then, you stayed a beautiful, sweet, and loving person,' the post continued.

'You are still the sweet and most loving child I know. You love dogs even though we all know that one particular dog was mean to you when you were younger,' Stark wrote.

'Kaylin, rest easy, I'm sure Roxie Roo is beside you now while you are looking down on us. Thank you for all the fun memories you shared with me, Lipsha, and Loren. I'm glad I had the pleasure of getting to know you,' the post concludes.

A GoFundMe has since been started by friends to help cover funeral expenses.

The fundraiser has brought in just over $38,000 of its $50,000 goal as of Monday.

'What a horrible tragedy. My deepest condolences,' wrote one person who donated.

'I remember Kaylin from when she was a toddler hanging out with us at our sleepovers. My thoughts are with the family,' wrote another.

'I am so terribly sorry to read this devastating news. This is the second GoFundMe donation today by me to the families of young people who mistakenly went to the wrong address. Enough,' said one commenter.

The person who donated was referring to the recent shooting of 16-year-old musician and scholar Ralph Yarl in Kansas City, Missouri on Thursday.

' Kaylin Gillis, you will be greatly missed,' wrote friend Chuchay Stark in a Facebook tribute

A GoFundMe has since been started by friends to help cover funeral expenses

Ralph Yarl, 16, was shot twice in the head by a white man after he approached the wrong house by mistake when going to collect his siblings

Andrew Lester, 84, has been charged with two felony counts over the April 13 shooting of Ralph Yarl, which Kansas City prosecutors said was racially motivated

Zachary Thompson, Clay County prosecutor, announced charges against Andrew Lester on Monday afternoon

Ralph, center, was said to be trying to pick up his younger siblings from a friend's house but went to the wrong address

Yarl, a black teen, was shot by an 84-year-old white homeowner whose doorbell Yarl rang after accidentally mistaking the home for the one he was set to pick up his siblings from.

Yarl was shot twice in the head, allegedly by local homeowner Andrew Lester, through Lester's locked door.

Lester has since been charged with first-degree assault.

'I can tell you there was a racial component to the case,' said Clay County prosecutor Zachary Thompson on Monday.

Lester's bond is set at $200,000. If convicted, he could face life in prison for the assault charge.
Her parents said her disappearance is out of character

The heartbroken parents of a Melbourne woman who has been missing for 26 days issued a plea for the public to help bring their daughter home.

Missing Wantirna woman Sarah Weatherstone, 28, was last seen leaving a factory on Vespa Drive in Narre Warren, south-east Melbourne, at about 4.30pm on March 23.

She was due to celebrate her 28th birthday with loved ones on April 13 and head on a family trip to Queensland later this week.

Her devastated mother, Judith, has widely shared photos of her daughter - who suffers from Borderline Personality Disorder - across social media in the hope she will be found safe.

On Tuesday she said Sarah's disappearance has been a 'living nightmare'.

Sarah Weatherstone (above) was last seen leaving a factory in Narre Warren at about 4.30pm on March 23

Sarah (above) was due to celebrate her 28th birthday with loved ones on April 13 - her mother described her disappearance as 'out of character'

'I wouldn't wish this on my worst enemy,' Mrs Weatherstone said through tears, the Herald Sun reported.

'We just really want her home. It's like she's vanished. She's a very family orientated girl.'

Victoria Police conducted a three-day search of the Hallam Valley Wetlands after Sarah was reported missing.

The search was assisted by the Air Wing, Search and Rescue, SES, police drones and the Mounted Branch.

Senior Constable Adam Read said police did not find any of Sarah's belongings during the search.

One key item officers were looking for was Sarah's phone, which last pinged on March 24 and led officers to comb through the wetlands.

On March 23, Sarah had visited the factory, where she was last seen, with her friends but left alone.

Mr Read said police aren't treating Sarah's disappearance as suspicious but hold concerns for her welfare.

Sarah's parents said her disappearance has been a 'living nightmare' and pleaded for help finding her (pictured, a photo of Sarah shared by her mother)

Mrs Weatherstone wrote online that she's worried about her daughter as her disappearance is 'out of character'.

Police described Sarah as of Caucasian appearance with blonde hair.

She was last seen wearing a green jumper, cream track pants, white sneakers and a yellow singlet.

Anyone with information on Sarah's whereabouts is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.
Bill Shorten has unveiled a six-point plan to overhaul the National Disability Insurance Scheme after it was swamped by cynical rorts and runaway costs.

The $34billion agency was launched as a Labor initiative 10 years ago but has been plagued by fraud and complaints it wasn't serving the people who needed it most.

Now the NDIS minister has vowed to reboot it with a root and branch revamp of how it works after admitting the system has 'lost its way'.

In a speech to the National Press Club on Tuesday Mr Shorten revealed how he aims to improve the system by addressing six key factors.

The first stage of the reform will be to increase the number of staff and specialists working at the NDIS.

Bill Shorten has unveiled a six-point plan to overhaul the National Disability Insurance Scheme after it was swamped by cynical rorts and runaway costs - and he admitted it had 'lost its way'

The $34billion agency was launched as a Labor initiative 10 years ago but has been plagued by fraud and complaints it wasn't serving the people who needed it most (stock image)

'The bottom line is in order to improve outcomes we need to nurture a better relationship between the staff of the scheme and participants,' Mr Shorten said.

The second step is to plan for the long-term and eliminate unnecessary checks that people are 'still disabled'.

'Amputees must prove they're still missing a limb, people who are blind have to prove they can't see,' Mr Shorten said.

'Instead of causing grief and waste resources let's think long-term.'

The third change will be to rope in soaring costs, crack down on waste and tackle overcharging providers.

The fourth will be to provide more in-home care for treatment outside of hospitals and care homes, while the fifth change will be targetting unethical providers who are fleecing the system with shoddy care and therapies.

The sixth part of the plan will be to boost community support from state governments to free up NDIS budgets.

'These are their lives. It's the job of government to fit in with the cycle of people's lives, not the other way around,' Mr Shorten said.

Mr Shorten said the national disability scheme was meant to be a source of pride for the country.

'Built on the great Australian idea of the fair go, the NDIS is something all Australians can be proud of, but a decade of mismanagement means it's in trouble,' he said.

'Fraud and inefficiencies have led to a narrative where cost overrides the reality of return on investment.'

He said every dollar invested in the NDIS delivers a $2.25 return to the Australian economy but he said the Coalition government had left it wide open to fraud and tied up participants in red tape.

'It is unacceptable that vulnerable people find this mess impossible to navigate or are totally abandoned by the scheme,' he added.

'For the NDIS to reach its potential, it needs a reboot.'

He said the current system meant 'amputees must prove they're still missing a limb, people who are blind must prove they still can't see, people who have Down syndrome must prove that they still have Down syndrome.'

He added: 'Short-term planning just isn't working.

'Frankly, it's stressful, debilitating, frustrating and nonsensical that  every year or six months  participants have to 'prove' they are still disabled.

'Why not have multi-year plans? More flexible and sustainable...that deliver better outcomes for people with disability  and more predictability for all involved.'

NDIS costs are predicted to spiral in coming years, rising to $55billion by 2025 and over $90billion within a decade, overshadowing Medicare itself

Bill Shorten launched a Fraud Fusion Taskforce after Labor won the federal election last May to crack down on fraud after the NDIS was targeted by criminals fleecing the system (stock image)

He insisted that most of the carers and providers working in the NDIS were working as they should - but some were not and were draining its resources.

'Let me stress, there are many great service providers from long-standing not-for-profits to new family-run, small businesses,' Mr Shorten said.

'But untrustworthy providers who prey upon participants, make them feel 'de-humanised', exploited as 'cash-cows'.'

He launched a Fraud Fusion Taskforce after Labor won the federal election last May to crack down on fraud after the NDIS was targeted by criminals.

'Currently, the taskforce has 38 investigations under way, involving more than $300m in payments,' he said.

'It is infuriating that criminal syndicates are stealing from people with disability.'

A special rorts hotline was given almost 60 tip offs per day last month alone, with around 1,700 allegations of fraud made in March, up from 1500 in February and 1300 in January.

Mr Shorten has also flagged tightening up payments for therapy sessions - especially for autistic children - which has seen costs soar in recent years.

One in six NDIS participants, equal to more than 92,000, are children under seven, and in the latest quarterly report, they made up 48 per cent of all new sign ups.

Many are allegedly suffering autistic symptoms which are exaggerated to allow them to access therapy payments under the NDIS.

He says the scheme - launched in 2013 - was not intended to support that kind of treatment, and those with other urgent needs are suffering as a result.

He said state government health, social and education departments needed to share some of the burden but had often pushed cases into the NDIS instead.

'The NDIS was never intended to be the only lifeboat in the ocean,' he said in the speech. 'The hard truth is the NDIS is not what it should be. The NDIS lost its way.

'It is not delivering the outcomes Australians with disability need and the Australian public expects.

'To enable the NDIS to reach its potential, we need to  in essence  reboot.'

Bill Shorten has vowed to reboot the NDIS with a root and branch revamp of how it works

Costs are predicted to spiral in coming years, rising to $55billion by 2025 and over $90billion within a decade, overshadowing Medicare itself.

Around 500,000 Australians benefit from the scheme, but Mr Shorten believes it has over-reached into unintended areas which is limiting its effectiveness elsewhere.

He claims some are being paid for unnecessary treatments and warns of a crackdown on 'shoddy therapies that offer little to no value to participants or desperate parents'.

He also reveals that some have tried to claim, unsuccessfully, for crystal healing sessions and tarot card therapy under the NDIS.

But he has also found the structure of the scheme itself is at fault, with too much bureaucracy for those in real need while too easily rorted by criminals preying on the system and those in need.

'The system is too rigid,' Mr Shorten will say. 'It throws up Kafkaesque barriers to access, lacks empathy, gouges on prices, is too complex, and often traumatising to deal with.

'As a consequence, people with disability often feel they are caught between some predatory providers on one hand and an impersonal government agency on the other. That must change.'

An expert panel - co-chaired by Bruce Bonyhady and Lisa Paul - has been reviewing the NDIS and is expected to report back in October.

Mr Shorten expects it to reveal the fine details on the design, operations and sustainability of the scheme and how it can build a more responsive, supportive, sustainable market and workforce.

But Mr Shorten insists: 'The NDIS is here to stay... a testament to the strength of the reform  and the strength of the community support.'
Dad-of-two got out of his car to re-enter an access code

A grandfather killed after becoming trapped in a carwash was likely confused by a flashing green arrow encouraging him to drive inside, even though he had entered the wrong code.

Athanasios Papageorgiou was left fighting for his life after becoming trapped inside the car wash at a Puma branded service station in Springvale, southeast of Melbourne, in November 2019. He died three days later.

Daily Mail Australia can reveal Mr Papageorgiou, 73, was a beloved father of two and grandfather and an active member of the Greek community when his life was tragically cut short.

He had told his wife Maria he was simply going out to get fuel when a snap decision to wash his car ended in tragedy.

Melbourne car wash victim Athanasios Papageorgiou and his wife Maria. Both were active members of the Greek community

The car wash where the shocking accident claimed the life of Mr Papageorgiou in Springvale, in the city's south-east

Lawyers representing international oil company Chevron appeared before the Melbourne Magistrates' Court on Tuesday after the company was charged over the Mulgrave man's death.

It can now be revealed Ms Papageorgiou told family her husband had simply gone to fill up his car with petrol and never returned home.

'He went to fill the car, something happened to the machine and he died of suffocation,' she told friends and family via social media at the time.

Just days earlier, Mr Papageorgiou could be seen enjoying a traditional Greek event at the Greek Community of Springvale and District tavern where he was a regular.

Mr Papageorgiou was farewelled on December 9 that year after dying from his injuries three days after the accident.

On Tuesday, an expert engaged by WorkSafe to investigate the deadly car wash suggested better signage could have saved Mr Papageorgiou's life.

Dr Peter Hart told the court motorists entering the car wash had no idea if the entry codes they used to engage the carwash had been entered correctly.

'I came to the view that signage could have reduced the risk of this type of incident occurring because the driver would have been informed that the code had not been accepted and so the car shouldn't proceed into the car wash,' he told the court.

Athanasios Papageorgiou (far left) is seen during happier times at a traditional Greek event at the Greek Community of Springvale and District tavern where he was a regular

Dr Hart said green flashing arrows prompting motorists to enter the car wash added further confusion.

'The green flashing arrows which invite the driver to drive into the car wash could be suppressed unless the code has been accepted,' he said.

'I think the presence of those green flashing arrows is quite confusing to a driver because it's quite possible for a code not to be accepted and yet it seems that the driver is being invited to drive into the car wash.

'The consequence being that the driver would then have to get out the car or drive out to fix it.'

The watchdog alleges Mr Papageorgiou was killed under similar circumstances.

Mr Papageorgiou and wife Maria in happier times

Dr Hart said the issue could have been rectified 'fairly easily'.

'I think you could also have a sign that says "code accepted" or "code not accepted" which is on until the code is accepted . I think there are reasonable prospects a driver not knowing anything much about how the car wash operates would not proceed in the presence of such a sign,' he said.

Documents released to Daily Mail Australia revealed Mr Papageorgiou was screaming in agony as staff, police and paramedics tried desperately but fruitlessly to free him.

The court heard police and paramedics were quick to respond to the emergency, arriving within minutes of Mr Papageorgiou becoming trapped in the car wash.

Documents stated Mr Papageorgiou was left 'screaming and unable to move'.

The Springvale service station where a 73-year old was crushed to death. It was then branded a Puma service station. Chevron bought the company after the accident happened

'Alerted by another customer, sales assistants at the service station attempted but could not free (the man) and called emergency services,' documents stated.

'Minutes later, two ambulances arrived at the scene, Victoria Police members also attended.'

The court heard paramedics could not release him and promptly ascertained the man's heart had stopped beating.

It took Country Fire Authority firefighters 16 minutes to arrive at the scene and extricate Mr Papageorgiou from the machine.

Paramedics were then able to 'reanimate' the unconscious Mr Papageorgiou and took him to hospital.

However Mr Papageorgiou died days later from the long period without oxygen to the brain caused by 'crash asphyxia'.

On Monday, a witness described the shocking moment Mr Papageorgiou rushed to his doom inside the car wash.

Pietrina Di Noto had been next in line to have her vehicle washed when she watched the horrific incident unfold.

She told the court the elderly man's fate was sealed when he attempted to make it into the front seat of his car after the car wash fired into action.

Mr Papageorgiou, 73, was crushed after getting out of his vehicle to re-enter an access code, with the wash cycle then starting (stock image)

WorkSafe Victoria hit Chevron with four negligence charges after the man drove into the carwash before getting out of his car to re-enter an access code.

The court heard he was crushed when he tried to get back into his vehicle when the wash cycle had started, with his car door becoming stuck by a gantry.

Ms Di Noto told the court she saw Mr Papageorgiou jump out of his car to enter the code.

Addressing the court on day one of the preliminary hearing, Ms Di Noto said Mr Papageorgiou 'roughly' asked her to move her vehicle so he could enter the code.

'He saw the machine move and started to run,' she said.

Ms Di Noto said she saw water starting to flow from the carwash as Mr Papageorgiou desperately tried to re-enter the front seat of his vehicle.

'I thought "Oh no, please get into the back seat",' she said.

Ms Di Noto said Mr Papageorgiou managed to open the front door wide enough to get a foot inside before he was cut down by the car wash.

'It would have been better if he'd just walked out,' she said. 'It was clear to me.'

'It was obviously dangerous to get in the front,' she said. 'I was shocked.'

The hearing will conclude next month.
A female driver attempted to flirt with a Texas trooper who pulled her over - before they found two El Salvadorian immigrants being smuggled in the back of her car.

Lidia Elizabeth Badillo, 38, from Edinburg, Texas was arrested and charged by the Texas Department of Public Safety last week after being pulled over by a cop.

Two female illegal immigrants from El Salvador were also found in her car with Badillo allegedly planning to transport them to Corpus Christi, Texas, together with the help of another female driver.

In video released by the DPS and posted to Twitter by DPS Lt. Christopher Olivarez, the Badillo attempted to flirt her way out of getting arrested by telling the officer he had nice eyes and that he was handsome.

The remark caught the officer off guard - but he quickly got back on track and found the two young women in the car were carrying fraudulent Texas driver's licenses in order to pass through a Border Patrol checkpoint in Falfurrias, Texas.

For your eyes only: Lidia Elizabeth Badillo, 38, was arrested and charged by the Texas Department of Public Safety for human smuggling after she was pulled over by a trooper, but she tried flirting first

Only had eyes for you: While speaking with the trooper she could be heard flirting telling him that he had nice eyes

Sad eyes: The tactic didn't work and Badillo found herself under arrest soon afterwards but the officer places her in handcuffs soon afterwards

Cuffed up: Badillo was placed into handcuffs after the officer failed to believe her story

When asked if the driver's licenses presented were legitimate, Badillo told the trooper that she did not know.

Badillo told how she and her two friends met four months ago at 'Club Fuego' and were going to go and get drinks at a local bar.

Just as the officer states how he is going to run the IDs through his verification system, Badillo attempted to distract him by flattering him.

'I'm looking at your eyes sir,' Badillo said to the trooper. 'I'm looking at your eyes because you're pretty handsome.'

Badillo then admitted that she picked the two women up from a stash house, where weapons and supplies are hidden, in Mission, Texas.

When asked if the driver's licenses presented were legitimate, Badillo told the trooper that she did not know. They were not

Two female illegal immigrants from El Salvador were found in her car which Badillo was planning to transport to Corpus Christi, Texas, with another driver

With her plan unraveling, the officer told her to turn around and quickly placed her in handcuffs.

Badillo now faces two charges of smuggling people, while the two illegal immigrants have been referred to the U.S. Border Patrol.

According to Texas DPS, the method of taking the women across the state is common with may of them later forced into debt bondage becoming the victims of sex trafficking.

The bust is part of Operation Lone Star, launched by Texas Governor Greg Abbott introduced Operation Lone Star in March 2021 in order to curb the rise of illegal immigration across the state.

The op covers 48 counties mainly along the border with Mexico and directs DPS to use all available resources in order to prevent criminal activity such as human trafficking and smuggling, as well as criminal trespassing.

Badillo did her best to flirt with the Texas trooper but it didn't work after his suspicions were raised
An academic has claimed more migrants have been moving to Melbourne because Sydney is considered to be a 'more white' city.

ANU demographer Dr Liz Allen told Daily Mail Australia through the 1990s and into the 2000s 'politicians in greater Sydney and NSW made decisions that werent necessarily thinking strategically with the long-term in mind'.

She pointed out the announcement made by former NSW premier Bob Carr in 2000 after he claimed 'Sydney was full'.

'This kind of unwelcoming rhetoric existed and we saw that at a federal level as well,' she said.

Her comment comes after Melbourne dethroned Sydney to become the most populous city in the country on Monday.

ANU demographer Liz Allen says that attitudes preferencing Sydney as being 'more white' sent the latest wave of Australian immigrants to Melbourne

The title was handed over on a technicality after Melbourne widened its western boundary partly due to the increasing number of migrants from India moving to the area.

Melbourne has become the popular city with more Indian students also choosing to take up a degree in the city.

Dr Allen argued Sydney may have celebrated multiculturalism but hadn't been practicing it as well as its southern rival.

'That translates to Melbourne holding the crown for welcoming more recent migrants to Australia,' Dr Allen said.

'Melbourne is viewed as more welcoming. We get the cultural perception of being at the fore of modern Australia, that Melbourne represents contemporary Australia in terms of its celebration of diversity.

Despite a move 'toward celebrating diversity' Dr Allen said Australia's long history of preferring Anglo-Celtic migration could still be seen in popular attitudes.

'There is a long-held view I fear that many Australians consider Australia to be a white country but Australia has a black history one we dont tend to recognise as First Nations Australians were here long before white colonisers were,' she said.

'We have a preference in this country to avoid talking about difference, to avoid talking about diversity and that harkens back to a preference for assimilation. What that does is suppress any real recognition of being multicultural.'

She argued that even the data about where people or their parents were born doesn't capture the changing nature of Australia.

'We are far more diverse a country than we tend to popularly give ourselves credit for,' she said.

'In Australia we tend to have a higher degree than normal of inter-racial coupling which means we have children born of very rich ethnic backgrounds and identities and we dont recognise that.

'We have got to the point where it is safer to not talk about differences through fear of making others uncomfortable.

If we were a truly multicultural in terms of cultural things we would recognise our diversity and celebrate it more earnestly.'

She said Australia needed 'suitable trained and skilled migrants to help offset the consequences of an aging population' but in attracting those types of people the nation is in competition with countries such as the US, Britain and Canada.

She thinks the Covid pandemic period, where Australia shut its borders and ordered those on short stay visas out of the country, did much harm to the nation's reputation of being migrant friendly.

'Australia did itself an enormous disservice, we had our prime minister use the words go home where home for many years was Australia for the intended recipients of this message,' she argued.

Sydney gave the impression of wanting to be 'more white' at the turn of the century, Dr Aleen argues (pictured stock image of Sydney's Bondi beach)

Melbourne came to the fore of being the more welcoming and diverse city, Dr Allen argues (pictured people crossing Bourke St in Melbourne's CBD)

She said the increased hostility to migrants during this period, which saw those on temporary visas locked out work by Covid measures without access to Medicate or other government supports was noted globally.

'Those people were relegated to the trash heap, we forced people in these situations to rely on the kindness of strangers,' Dr Allen said.

'Those stories are communicated to friends and family. People realised Australia might not be the safe country we like to tell people we are.

'We have suffered enormous damage to brand Australia and now we need to move past that with over actions as well as policies.'

Dr Allen believes debate on immigration goes in cycles and although large amounts of skilled migration have had bi-partisan support for many years the temptation is there for politicians to divide the population by talking about 'us' and 'them'.

Despite concerns Australia is taking in a record number of migrants, with over 650,000 being brought in over two years, Dr Allen said this failed to recognise the net population increase would be small.

This is because those on temporary visas cut short their stays during Covid.

The Covid period of closed borders, where home prices shot skywards and unemployment went up as businesses closed, also showed migrants did not take jobs or drive up housing costs, Dr Allen said.

She argued migrants contributed far more economically and culturally than they 'took' and were needed to be the workforce for more schools, hospitals, shops and other services Australians wanted.
Residents of an upscale enclave of Los Angeles are complaining after a homeless encampment mushroomed in the last few days on the border of Beverly Hills - with one of the tent-dwellers saying they were told to move there by police.

The tents and people arrived on San Vicente Boulevard in Beverly Grove, setting up a camp to the anger of locals.

'They're fighting at all hours of the day. They're doing drugs. They're selling drugs. It's out of control,' said one Beverly Grove resident, speaking to KTLA.

'We pay so much in property tax and so much in income tax, it is not fair for us to live like this.'

Yet James Boss, who has been homeless for over a decade, told the network that he and others were told to move there.

'They told us to come over here,' he said. 'The (sheriff's department) and the police department told us to come over this way because they were going to offer us housing.'

James Boss, who is homeless, told KTLA that he had been told to move to the area by LAPD

A homeless encampment has sprung up in the Beverly Grove area of Los Angeles (pictured last week)

Those living in the temporary camp say that if they try to set up shelters across the road, in Beverly Hills, they are moved on

LAPD would not comment when asked whether they asked the homeless population to move to that spot.

Karen Bass, the mayor of Los Angeles, has launched a program, Inside Safe, which aims to clear homeless encampments. It is designed to move those currently homeless into permanent housing.

The most recent survey conducted by the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority found approximately 69,000 people experiencing homelessness in LA County, and 41,000 in the city in 2022.

About half the homeless population of the city struggles with drug or alcohol addiction, and about a third have serious mental illnesses. Homeless deaths average five a day.

One woman who owns a beauty salon nearby said her customers were intimidated by the scene.

'I have a nice clientele, but now my clientele is getting to the point where they just don't feel comfortable,' she told Eyewitness News.

One photo taken on Tuesday shows a naked woman lounging on a couch at the encampment.

Homeless encampments in the Hollywood stomping grounds of Beverly Hills have taken a turn for the worse, as a local business owner says there are now naked people deterring customers

In the center of junction in Beverly Grove, near Beverly Hills, tents and tarpaulins have been set up by some of LA's homeless population

A homeless person is seen napping on a patch of grass in a park on the corner of Santa Monica Blvd. and Crescent Dr.

'I saw the couch one day out there and I think, 'Oh my God,'' she said.

'The next day, I came back and see she's all over the couch and she's just naked. She was crying.

'I felt bad for her, you know? I wanted to like give her something to cover up but I felt like if I do the little things, then I'll have everyone coming and asking for help.'

Some locals point out that while Beverly Hills strictly enforces rules against camping, LA was more relaxed about the tents.

Boss, the homeless man, said that if he tried to put his tent up across the road in Beverly Hills he was immediately moved on by police.

'There's nothing in Beverly Hills,' said business owner Mike Terani.

He told Eyewitness News: 'Right when you come over in LA, that's where nobody can do anything and nobody cares.'

Dr. Kenneth Wright, who owns a medical practice on the block, said LAPD told him they couldn't do anything about the situation.

'I talked to the officer  he's a great guy  he says, 'Look, they tell me from the mayor's office, they tell me from my chief, to leave them here,'' he said.

Bass, who was elected in November after promising to take on the city's out-of-control homeless crisis, announced on Monday she would recommend spending what she called a record $1.3 billion next year to get unhoused people into shelter and treatment programs.

Some residents of wealthy Beverly Hills told the city council that they were considering leaving as they didn't feel safe allowing their children to play outside

A homeless man sits on a public bench in Beverly Grove, near Beverly Hills on April 11, 2023

The funding to be included in the mayor's upcoming budget could be used in part to buy hotels or motels that would be converted to housing, while the city combs through its inventory of properties for those that could be used for sheltering homeless people.

The former congresswoman's remarks, in an annual address to City Council on the state of the city, came roughly four months into her first term.

Bass added that the budget also would include funds for substance abuse treatment beds for the unhoused, but she did not specify how many.

Governor Gavin Newsom has promised to deliver 500 units of temporary housing to the city, while the Biden administration has sent the city and county more than $200 million for homeless programs, she added.

'After years of frustration ... we can see a clearer path to a new Los Angeles,' Bass said, speaking inside the ornate City Council chambers.

'We have finally dispelled the myth that people do not want to come inside. They do.'

However, Bass added that much work needed to be done.

'I cannot declare that the state of our city is where it needs to be,' she said.

The city has expanded spending on homeless programs for years  then-Mayor Eric Garcetti signed a budget in 2021 with nearly $1 billion in homeless spending  but the unhoused population has continued to increase.

Bass' challenge is in plain sight in just about any neighborhood: homeless people living in trash-strewn encampments or rusty RVs along streets, below underpasses and clustered around freeway exits.

Bass, the first black woman to serve as LA's mayor who was on President Joe Biden's short list for vice president, defeated billionaire businessman Rick Caruso in the November election.

She anchored her campaign to getting homeless people off the streets and into shelters, reversing spiking crime rates and developing housing that working-class families can afford.
Sets out procedures which must be followed to protect vulnerable customers

All suppliers in England, Scotland and Wales have signed up to a code of practice

Ofgem has today banned the forced installation of prepayment energy meters in the homes of over-85s.

It comes after firms including British Gas sent debt collectors to break into the properties of people struggling to pay their bills and forcibly install the devices.

All suppliers in England, Scotland and Wales have signed up to a code of practice setting out clear procedures to protect vulnerable customers. Workers must now also wear body cameras, the energy regulator announced.

The new rules mean tougher oversight of PPMs which are enforced under warrant installations or remotely switched without consent.

The regulator's chief executive Jonathan Brearley said: 'Ofgem's new voluntary code of practice is a minimum standard that clearly sets out steps all suppliers must take before moving to a PPM.

Ofgem has banned the forced installment of prepayment energy meters in the homes of over-85s and will make the members of staff wear body cameras. Prepayment meters (PPMs) have been in the spotlight after some energy suppliers were caught breaking into the homes of people struggling to pay their bills and forcibly installed them (file photo).

Energy Secretary Grant Shapps has welcomed Ofgem's new code of practice banning forcibly installing prepayment meters in the homes of people over 85

'If and when involuntary PPMs are used, it must be as a last resort, and customers in vulnerable situations will be given the extra care and consideration they deserve, over and above the rules already in place, by suppliers  something that has clearly not always been happening.

'This new code of practice means for some people PPMs should never be installed, and for high-risk groups their energy needs must be protected with a higher level of consideration.'

'Families must never again face such mistreatment': Shapps responds to Ofgem's new code of conduct Energy Secretary Grant Shapps has welcomed Ofgem's new code of practice banning forcibly installing prepayment meters in the homes of people over 85. He tweeted: 'This is a step in the right direction - I welcome agreement from the sector to give redress to those wronged - an important step I've been requesting. 'Now @Ofgem and suppliers must put these words into action, so struggling families never again face such mistreatment.'

Under the rules suppliers will now have to make at least ten attempts to contact a customer  and conduct a 'site welfare visit' before a PPM is installed, The Guardian reported.

An investigation by The Times earlier this year revealed how vulnerable customers  including disabled and mentally ill people  were being forced by British Gas on to the pay-as-you-go meters or instead have their gas switched off.

Suppliers will reportedly make representatives fitting them wear cameras or audio equipment, and they will not be allowed to fit meters for customers over 85 or anyone with a terminal illness.

Those forced on to a prepay meter  either by warrant or remotely  will be given 30 of credit initially to reduce the risk of them losing supply.

Suppliers have also been told to identify where meters were wrongfully installed and to return those customers to their previous tariff and offer compensation.

Forced installations will also be considered a last resort, the code is expected to set out. The Guardian reported that Mr Brearley will expect suppliers to 'treat their most vulnerable customers as they would want their own loved ones to be treated'.

Firms were temporarily banned from installing prepayment energy meters under warrant.

In the aftermath of The Times investigation, Energy Secretary Grant Shapps said he was 'horrified' by the reports that British Gas sent debt collectors to 'break into homes' and force-fit pay-as-you-go meters on 'vulnerable' customers.

Mr Shapps announced that the Government would hold meetings with the firm's parent company Centrica to investigate what he called a 'systemic failure'.

All suppliers in England, Scotland and Wales have signed up to a code of practice setting out clear procedures which must be followed to protect vulnerable customers. The new rules mean tougher oversight of PPMs which are enforced under warrant installations or remotely switched without consent (file photo)

Energy companies can obtain court warrants which give them legal rights to enter people's homes and fit prepayment meters if customers have not paid their bills. The customers must then top up to continue receiving gas supplies, and if they fail to do so they risk their heating being cut off.

An undercover reporter for the newspaper worked for debt collecting contractor Arvato Financial Solutions and accompanied agents who used court warrants to gain entry into customers' homes to force-fit these meters.

Once a prepayment meter is fitted, people must top up to get the gas to turn on. Regular repayments are then taken from the bank account, and the supply is cut off if there is not enough credit to cover the cost of the gas.
Assaulted two decades ago, a Sydney man claims his ongoing health impacts from the violent attack led him to rape a teen at night after she left a McDonald's restaurant.

Hosam Soueid, 36, suffered two blows to the head in an assault in 2002 and has been diagnosed with a traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder.

He has admitted to following an 18-year-old woman in his car as she left McDonald's and then raping her on the street at around 2am in Castle Hill on November 21, 2021.

Soueid had stepped out of the car and asked her for a hug before the vicious attack.

At Parramatta District Court on Tuesday, barrister James Trevallion argued Soueid's jail sentence should be reduced because of the negative mental and physical health impacts of the 2002 assault.

'Your Honour would find that there is a causal connection between the offending and his mental health condition,' he told Judge Mark Buscombe.

Hosam Soueid (pictured, left at his arrest), 36, suffered two blows to the head during an assault in 2002 and has been diagnosed with a traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder

He has admitted to following an 18-year-old woman in his car as she left McDonald's and then raping her on the street at around 2am in Castle Hill on November 21, 2021

Barrister James Trevallion argued Soueid's jail sentence should be reduced because of the negative mental and physical health impacts of the 2002 assault (pictured, centre Soueid at his arrest)

The Castle Hill man, who appeared in court by audio-visual link, should also get a discounted sentence because of an early guilty plea to one count of sexual intercourse without consent made on November 24 last year, Mr Trevallion said.

There was 'limited planning' behind the attack which made it less objectively serious, the court heard.

'The conduct of the offender and the circumstances of the offending are almost, I would submit, the definition of opportunistic,' Mr Trevallion said.

The barrister said Soueid had shown remorse in a letter to the court and to a forensic psychologist. He was also suffering under more onerous conditions in jail due to his mental health and was in protective custody after an assault.

In the letter, Soueid says he had renewed his faith in Islam while in prison and was acting as a mentor to other inmates.

Crown prosecutor Thomas Buckingham disagreed that the offence was opportunistic, saying Soueid had waited in the McDonald's carpark before driving after his victim with his headlights turned off in the early hours of the morning.

After parking his car, he stood off from the sidewalk and confronted the teenage girl.

'Very quickly the pretext of, 'Can I have a hug' ... turns into a sexual attack,' Mr Buckingham told the court.

There was 'limited planning' behind the attack which made it less objectively serious, the court heard (pictured, the street in Castle Hill where the sexual assault occurred)

The prosecutor also rejected that there was a causal link between Soueid's mental health and the offending, saying that while these were underlying issues, the Castle Hill man had also been self-medicating with cannabis, amphetamines and alcohol on the night of the attack.

Any sentence imposed on Soueid will be backdated to when he was first placed in custody on December 15, 2021.

Judge Buscombe will deliver his decision on Tuesday afternoon.

1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)

National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service 1800 211 028
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif blamed the KP Government for its failure to equip the Police and civil armed forces to counter terrorists, questioning the manner in which the provincial Government had spent funds to the tune PKR 417 billion received from the Federal Government since 2010.

by Tushar Ranjan Mohanty

On April 8, 2023, two Army soldiers were killed in an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) blast in the Bara tehsil (revenue unit) of Khyber District.

On April 3, 2023, two Policemen were killed by unidentified terrorists while they were on patrol duty in the Tapi area of Kohat District.

On March 30, 2023, four Policemen, including Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), Iqbal Mohmand, were killed while another six Policemen were injured when terrorists attacked a Police check post in Lakki Marwat town (Lakki Marwat District).

According to partial data compiled by the South Asia Terrorism Portal (SATP), Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) has recorded a total of 124 Security Force (SF) fatalities so far in 2023 (till April 16). During the corresponding period do 2022, there were 50 SF fatalities and, through 2022, there were 173 SF fatalities.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recently gave an interview with Al Arabiya news channel [ Photo: Dawn]

Fatalities in the SF category in KP have seen a rising trend since 2018, when they doubled from 26 in 2017, to 52, with the exception of 2020. There were 69 fatalities in 2019, 57 in 2020 and 108 in 2021.

The situation is the same for the whole of Pakistan. SF fatalities increased from 137 in 2019 to 178 in 2020, 226 in 2021 and 379 in 2022. In 2023, 222 SF fatalities have already been recorded.

With the collapse of official talks between the Government and the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) on November 28, 2022, the latter stepped up attacks on security forces.

According to KP Police data, 125 Police personnel have been killed and another 212 sustained injuries in militant attacks across the province during the first quarter of 2023. A total of 25 cases of militant attacks were registered with the Police during the first three months of the year. According to Police data, 15 militant attacks were reported against the Police in January 2023, in which 116 personnel were killed and 189 injured. Three militant attacks were reported in February 2023, in which two Police personnel were killed and another five were wounded. Seven cases were registered by the Police in March 2023, in which seven Policemen were killed and another 18 were wounded.

In the worst attack targeting Policemen during the first quarter of 2023, on January 30, 2023, a suicide attacker detonated his device himself inside a mosque in the Police Lines area of Peshawar, the provincial capital of KP. The suicide bomber was present in the first row of the worshippers at the mosque. At least 84 persons, including 83 Policemen, were killed and another 220 were injured in the blast. Sahibzada Noor Ul Amin, Imam of the mosque, was also killed in the blast. Capital City Police Officer, Peshawar (CCPO) Ejaz Khan, disclosed that close to 300 to 400 Policemen usually offered prayers at the mosque. Two Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) leaders, Sarbakaf Mohmand and Omar Mukaram Khurasani, claimed that the attack was revenge for the killing of Khalid Khorasani, the chief of TTPs splinter group, Jamaat-ul-Ahrar (JuA), in the Barmal District of the Paktika Province of Afghanistan, on August 7, 2022. However, TTP central spokesman Muhammad Khorasani denied any involvement in the attack.

The SFs have killed 114 terrorists in 2023, thus far, yielding a SF:terrorist kill ratio of 1.07:1. During the corresponding period of 2022, the ratio was 1:1.44. Through 2022, it stood at 1:1.35.

The SFs position on the ground has evidently weakened, and has also resulted in a substantial jump in civilian fatalities, from 71 in 2021 to 119 in 2022. 12 civilians have already been killed in the current year.

Meanwhile after a TTP attack on the Sarband Police Station in Peshawar on January 14, 2023, in which three Policemen, including Sardar Hussain, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), Badaber, and his two Police guards, were killed, KP Inspector General of Police (IGP), Moazzam Jah Ansari, disclosed that sniper weapons were used by the terrorists for the first time in Peshawar, while these are being used in Bannu, Lakki Marwat and DI Khan as well.

Indeed, a report released by Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty on March 31, 2023, noted that the weapons left behind by US Forces when they pulled out from Afghanistan in 2021, and that had been seized by the Afghan Taliban, have reached terrorist groups, mainly the TTP, operating in Pakistan, principally in KP. Abdul Sayed, a Sweden-based researcher who tracks the TTP, claimed that the groups access to sophisticated combat weapons has had a terrifying impact, especially on the relatively lesser-equipped Police forces in Pakistan.

Indeed, according to a report released on December 19, 2022, the KP Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) lacks the capacity to fight terrorism. The report noted that the KP CTD had a staff of 2,135 against an authorized strength of 3,161. This put an average strength across KPs 34 districts at 62 personnel per district. As against Punjabs massive fleet of 1,466 Police vehicles, KP has a mere 448.

On February 1, 2023, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif blamed the KP Government for its failure to equip the Police and civil armed forces to counter terrorists, questioning the manner in which the provincial Government had spent funds to the tune PKR 417 billion received from the Federal Government since 2010. During the Federal Cabinet meeting, the PM demanded, Where did these funds go even though the National Counter-Terrorism Authority and Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) had been established? The PM said that the nation wanted the KP Government to be held accountable for the rise of terrorism in the Province.

Meanwhile, on December 27, 2022, Federal Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah disclosed that there were around 7,000 to 10,000 TTP fighters in the region, and they were accompanied by 25,000 members of their families. This statement was later confirmed by former Prime Minister Imran Khan who, on January 10, 2023, revealed that his government had planned to resettle TTP militants in the erstwhile Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), with the help of the Afghan Taliban. Imran Khan stated that the fall of Kabul and the rise of the Afghan Taliban to power provided Pakistan with a golden opportunity to deal with the TTP threat. The Afghan Taliban pressurised the TTP, which had over 5,000 fighters among its 40,000-strong group, to go back to Pakistan and we took a number of steps to deal with it, he had added.

In a report released on February 14, 2023, the US Institute of Peace (USIP), a US-based think tank noted, that amid Pakistans economic crisis and the Talibans rule in Afghanistan, the Pakistani Taliban have re-emerged as an increasingly potent threat. The report further asserted that the Talibans determination to continue supporting the TTP, even in the face of intensified pressure from Pakistan was worrisome.

The surge in attacks on SFs in KP in particular and the country at large, at a time when Pakistan is facing acute socio-political economic crisis, is likely to continue, with very little hope of any reversal in this trend in immediate future.

Tushar Ranjan Mohanty is a Counter-terrorism Expert on Pakistan at Institute for Conflict Management (ICM) in New Delhi
Russian President Vladimir Putin has set foot on Ukrainian soil, visiting the embattled Kherson and Luhansk regions to meet military commanders.

'The supreme commander of Russian Federation armed forces has visited the headquarters of the Dnieper military grouping' in the Kherson region in the south, as well as Russian national guard headquarters in the Luhansk region in the east, the Kremlin said in a statement.

It marked the first time Putin, 70, has visited the two regions partly controlled by Russian troops since Moscow annexed them along with two other Ukrainian regions last September.

The despot heard field reports from Colonel General Mikhail Teplinsky, Commander of the Airborne Forces, Colonel General Oleg Makarevich, Commander of the Dnieper Forces Group, and Chief of Ground Forces Colonel-General Alexander Lapin.

British military intelligence said on Sunday that Teplinsky had been given a major role in the war and described him as 'likely one of the few senior Russian generals widely respected by the rank-and-file'.

'It's important for me to hear your opinion on the situation, to listen to you and to exchange information,' Putin told Teplinsky and his fellow commanders in a video released by the Kremlin.

The Russian leader also wished his troops a happy Easter, which Orthodox Christians marked last Sunday, the Kremlin said - though the footage of Putin in Ukraine was appeared to have been recorded several days in advance.

Putin was seen pounding the pavement with his commanders in eastern Ukraine

The despot clambered awkwardly out of an SUV and appeared to have difficulty walking

Putin wished his commanders a happy Orthodox Easter and presented them with a gift

He is seen shaking hands with commanders after disembarking from a helicopter

The despot walked stiffly as he was filmed clambering out of an SUV and a helicopter on his supposedly spontaneous visit to inspect his top frontline commanders.

He first visited the Dnieper headquarters in Kherson, before travelling to the base of the Vostok National Guard in Luhansk. In one clip broadcast on Russian state television, a road sign for Henichesk port in the occupied Kherson region is visible in the background.

He presented senior military figures with an Easter gift of a religious icon originally belonging to a tsarist-era defence minister and appeared to wish his commanders well for Orthodox Easter, which took place on Sunday.

But the president was seen wearing different clothes in the series of clips and in one conversation he said: 'Easter will be coming,' suggesting the trip to Ukraine was made before this weekend and casting doubt on the timing of his trip.

Journalist Dmitry Kolezev remarked: 'Surprisingly, during the trip, Putin was first in a shirt and tie, and then in a black turtleneck.

'Either he likes to change clothes so much, or they filmed on different days.'

Putin will hope his presence close to the front line in Kherson will motivate his troops, who are labouring to build defences along the banks of the Dnieper river in anticipation of a Ukrainian counter-attack.

Putin was seen wearing different clothes despite the trip supposedly taking place in one day

'It's important for me to hear your opinion on the situation, to listen to you and to exchange information,' Putin told commanders in a video released by the Kremlin

Putin addresses his commanders during his visit to occupied regions of Ukraine

The image shows that his convoy drove past Henichesk - a port city in Kherson

Ukraine's armed forces successfully managed to push the occupiers out of Kherson city late last year, but did not cross the river to reclaim more territory in the region.

The president's trip to Kherson and Luhansk comes less than a month after he paid a visit to the southern port city of Mariupol, which was bombarded to ruin last year.

Putin brazenly praised ongoing 'reconstruction' works and met Russians who had been relocated to the port city in newly built apartments.

The timing of Putin's 'spontaneous' visit to the once flourishing metropolis took place just days after the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for the Russian leader accusing him of war crimes.

Putin arrived in Mariupol by helicopter and then drove himself around the city's 'memorial sites,' concert hall and coastline, Russian reports said, adding that he also met residents in the city's Nevskyi district.

But the exiled city council of Mariupol condemned the visit, saying Putin was an 'international criminal', while Ukraine's defence ministry said the Russian president's decision to visit the city at night 'befits a thief'.

'First, it is safer,' the ministry wrote on Twitter.

'Also, darkness allows him to highlight what he wants to show, and keeps the city his army completely destroyed and its few surviving inhabitants away from prying eyes.'

The Telegram channel General SVR, which claims to have sources inside the Kremlin, said Putin's visits to Kherson and Luhansk regions were staged with a lookalike.

The channel - and others - made a similar claim about visits last month to Mariupol and Crimea in occupied Ukraine.

'A man resembling the president of Russia continues to travel through the occupied territories of Ukraine,' it stated.

'The recent visits by the doppelganger to Crimea and Mariupol pleased Putin and his entourage so much that it was decided to continue such events.

'This time, the understudy flew in... visited the headquarters of the group of troops in the Kherson direction, and even received reports from the generals.

'At the same time, the worst and oldest car was chosen for the movement of the presidential understudy, which, as part of a small column, traveled around the endless fields of the Kherson region.

'It is necessary to convince the Russians that Putin visits the front line under bullets and with personal courage raises the morale of soldiers and disgraced generals before the upcoming counter-offensive of Ukrainian troops.

'The fact that this does not work as intended, no one tells the president.'

Russia's invasion of Ukraine, launched on February 24, 2022, has triggered the deadliest European conflict since the Second World War.

Moscow claims to have annexed four Ukrainian regions, but its forces are locked in a grinding artillery battle in the eastern Donbas with heavy losses on both sides, while they have been forced to pull back in southern Kherson, which Putin visited.
When Bella Fidler returned from a post-exam celebration holiday to Bali she had everything to look forward to.

But the law graduate from the Gold Coast would be dead within a week after having contracted meningococcal B, which can cause deadly bacterial meningitis.

Now her parents are sharing Bella's story in a bid to have the deadly strain that killed her included in state-funded vaccination drives.

Ms Fidler, 23, had a temperature after coming home from the girls' trip in December last year and complained to her parents that she did not feel 'right'.

Bella Fidler, 23, had just graduated from Griffith University with a degree in law when she was struck down with meningitis

'Bella walked into hospital in the early hours of the morning with flu-like symptoms, which she thought might have been Covid,' her parents Blair and Jodie Fidler told Meningitis Centre Australia.

'Once there, she rapidly became critically ill, and the doctors eventually diagnosed her with bacterial meningitis.

'Within hours our lives were shattered by the devastating news that Bella had suffered extensive brain damage and was not expected to survive.'

Her parents are unsure where she caught it - all they know is that within 24 hours of feeling unwell she was gone.

Bella's flu-like symptoms rapidly deteriorated to the point she suffered a seizure before going into cardiac arrest.

Doctors were unable to prevent her suffering irrecoverable brain damage.

Blair and Jodie Fidler are campaigning for the deadly strain that killed their beloved daughter, Bella (pictured) - meningococcal B - to be included in state-funded vaccination drives for Australian schoolchildren

Her parents were initially confused about how she could have come down with meningitis when she had been vaccinated against meningococcal in high school - like most Australian children.

'We later found out that the national immunisation program schedule does not include the deadly meningococcal B strain, although a vaccine for the B strain is available if you know about it and can afford to pay for it,' he parents explained.

Her parents are now campaigning for vaccinations against the B strain, which cost $200 for two doses, to be included in the state-funded immunisation drive.

Bella had returned from a post-exam celebration holiday in Bali with girl friends when she fell ill

'As is the case for many other people who contract meningococcal, by the time a diagnosis is made, it's too late to avoid serious neurological damage, loss of limbs or death,' they said.

'The only effective prevention for these tragic outcomes is vaccination.'

Only South Australia includes meningococcal B in its vaccination program, meaning that most of our young people in Australia remain at risk of catching the disease.

Ms Fidler's parents claim that meningococcal B is now the most prevalent strain in Australia.

It is spread through close, prolonged contact, including kissing, sneezing or sharing drinks or food.

In a small number of cases, the bacteria can spread into the bloodstream causing illness, with about 10 per cent of cases being fatal, according to Meningitis Centre Australia.

Bella's parents said she (pictured) could 'light up a room with her smile and her big blue eyes, and she was funny and goofy and classy, all at the same time'

Just under 400 people died from meningococcal disease between 1997 and 2016, with 32 per cent under five years old, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.

Bella's parents sponsor the $500 Arabella (Bella) Fidler Memorial Prize in International Human Rights Law at Griffith University where she studied.

'Her passions were human and animal rights, and 2023 was going to be her year to start making the impact on the world she always dreamt of,' her parents said.

'Tragically, Bella never got to attend her graduation or see Christmas 2022, and these dreams will never be realised.

'There were so many more of life's milestones yet to come, that she will now never get to experience or share with her family and friends.'

Her parents described her 'the loyalest of friends who stuck by people through the tough times and the happy times; she was always there for them no matter what'.

'Bella could light up a room with her smile and her big blue eyes, and she was funny and goofy and classy, all at the same time.'
The niece of Melbourne drug lord Tony Mokbel shared a haunting social media post behind the wheel before she was killed in a horror car crash.

Keana Mokbel died when her vehicle ploughed into a tree on Southern Road at Heidelberg West in the Victorian capital about 8.50pm on Sunday.

Her uncle Tony is currently serving a 30-year jail sentence for drug trafficking and is understood to have spoken with Ms Mokbel's grieving family.

Family and friends gathered to mourn the 25-year-old during a memorial at a church in inner-city Thornbury last night.

In one of Ms Mokbel's final posts, she shared a short video of herself driving with one hand as she pretends to swerve the car before correcting it's course and smiling at the camera to indicate she was joking.

'Whole life flashed before my very eyes,' the glamorous Ms Mokbel wrote along with the video posted in late February.

Keana Mokbel (pictured), 25, died when her car hit a tree in Melbourne on Sunday evening

The glamorous hospitality worker shared a post behind the wheel recently in which she joked about nearly crashing

In another recent post she wrote haunting lyrics to a song: ''I gave my heart... speeding car going 90 in the rain'

In another post days earlier, Ms Mokbel shared a photo of herself taken in the rearview mirror of a car as she sits in the passenger seat.

Alongside the photo she has captioned the lyrics to the song The Color Violet by R&B artist Tory Lanez.

'I gave my heart... speeding car going 90 in the rain,' she wrote.

'She took my heart, filled it with nothin' but pain... The beat in my dance is not for romance.'

Ms Mokbel's immediate family - her father Horty, mother Rula, brother Anthony and sister Tatiana - along with extended family and friends last night gathered at Our Lady of Lebanon Church in Thornbury to pay their respects.

'Sadly, a member of our Community here in Melbourne has passed away; Kalliopi Keana Mokbel,' the church wrote online.

'Our thoughts and prayers are with Kalliopi's family at this difficult time.

'May she Rest in Eternal Peace.'

Devastated friends and family described the energetic and popular Ms Mokbel as a 'pocket rocket' whose smile 'lit up the entire universe'.

Ms Mokbel is the niece of high profile drug kingpin Tony Mokbel who is serving a 30-year prison term

Tony Mokbel, known for his involvement in Melbourne's 'Underbelly' drug wars, has been made aware of his niece's death and has spoken with family (he is pictured in February, 2006)

Mokbel, who is serving his sentence in Barwon Prison and is fighting his convictions, is not expected to make an application to attend his niece's funeral

'You would bring my mood to your level of joy in moments of being around you,' friend Joesphine Fotiadis wrote online.

'You'd make anyone blush with your cute compliments and cheek. You were one of a kind, crazy and free, one in a million.'

Another friend, Helena Katsouranis, said Ms Mokbel was a 'ray of sunshine'.

'You've left too many people behind that I don't know how to do life without you,' she said.

'You called me your angel the other day and now you've become mine. I love you my twin flame and you'll always hold a special place in my heart.'

Rini Menidis wrote: 'You were such a light and made an imprint in everyone's life.

'You always stood up for me and had my back. I always looked up to you like you were my big sister. You will forever be in my heart my girl.'

Friends and family have gathered at Our Lady of Lebanon church in Melbourne to pay their respects

Attendees arrived at Ms Mokbel's condolence service early on Tuesday evening (pictured)

Those in attendance wore black in tribute to the popular Ms Mokbel

One attendee uses hand sanitizer before entering the service at the church

Savva Pappas said Ms Mokbel was 'one of the most beautiful people God put on this planet' and that his heart had been broken into pieces.

Ms Mokbel's funeral date is yet to be determined.

Her notorious uncle Tony, who is an inmate in Barwon Prison and is fighting his convictions, is not expected to make an application to attend.

The 57-year-old was rushed from his cell to hospital last month to receive urgent treatment, reportedly for a blood clot.

He was in a coma for 24 days after two 21-year-old prisoners assaulted him in Barwon in 2019.

Tony Mokbel continues to suffer the effects of a traumatic brain injury stemming from the attack, his barrister Julie Condon KC told a court in February.

Tributes have begun to flow for Ms Mokbel (pictured left) who was described as a 'pocket rocket' with an infectious smile that 'lit up the universe'

One friend said they would sorely miss Ms Mokbel's '100 Snapchats a day'

He was convicted and sentenced to 30 years in prison in July 2012 after pleading guilty to three counts of drug trafficking.

Six years earlier, he had been convicted and sentenced to 12 years jail for importing a commercial quantity of cocaine from Mexico.

Mokbel did not appear in court for that sentence, instead he hid in rural Victoria for eight months before fleeing to Greece in a yacht from Western Australia.

He was eventually arrested in a cafe in Athens in June 2007 and was extradited back to Melbourne almost a year later.

Mokbel tried to appeal his convictions, arguing it was illegal for him to be extradited to Australia before his appeal to the European Court of Human Rights was finalised.

Those bids were unsuccessful but his 2006 conviction was ultimately quashed by the appeal court in December 2020 after his former lawyer Nicola Gobbo was revealed to be a police informer.

Victoria Police said a report on Ms Mokbel's death would be prepared for the Coroner.
Spanish police are hunting a British man after a doorman was killed while trying to break up a fight at former TOWIE star Elliot Wright's restaurant.

Father-of-two Jose Rafael Pisano Pardo died in hospital on Sunday after suffering life-threatening injuries when he intervened in a brawl at Olivia's La Cala restaurant in Marbella.

The 55-year-old, a bodybuilder from Venezuela, was knocked unconscious on Saturday night and taken in a serious condition to a hospital in Malaga, Spain, where he was admitted to intensive care.

Well-placed sources said he had been declared brain dead and his life support machine was switched off after hitting the back of his head. He is thought to have fallen to the ground during attempts to eject one of the men involved in the fracas.

Now, insiders confirmed police were hunting a British man amid unconfirmed reports that Mr Pardo had been pushed or punched in the altercation before losing his balance.

Mr Wright closed his restaurant in the resort of La Cala de Mijas yesterday and today following Mr Pardo's death. The reality TV personality said his 'heart was broken' and his staff had 'lost a much loved and valued member of our team'.

Father-of-two Jose Rafael Pisano Pardo, 55, (pictured) died in hospital on Sunday evening after suffering life-threatening injuries when he intervened in a fight at Olivia's La Cala restaurant in Marbella

Elliott Wright has temporarily closed his restaurant in the resort of La Cala de Mijas for two days following Mr Pardo's death. The former TOWIE star is pictured at Olivia's La Cala

Elliott Wright has shut his Olivia's La Cala restaurant (pictured) for two days as police continued to probe the Saturday night tragedy

Mr Pardo was a father of two grown-up children believed to be a previous relationship. He married Romina Acuna, a personal trainer and gym instructor in Las Vegas, in November last year.

Ms Acuna described her new fitness fanatic husband as the 'love of my life' in an emotional social media post after they wed and posed for photos near a white stretch limousine.

She moved to Mijas on the Costa del Sol at the start of 2021 from her previous base in Barcelona and the couple enjoyed a holiday together in Chile before getting married.

A police investigation into Mr Pardo's death, led by the Civil Guard in Malaga, is ongoing but detectives confirmed last night that no arrests have yet been made.

Officers have taken CCTV footage from Mr Wright's restaurant, which was gutted in an arson attack two years ago, on Sunday after interviewing staff.

The results of a post-mortem, believed to have taken place yesterday, have not been revealed and are not expected to be officially made public. They will instead be sent to an investigating judge heading an ongoing judicial probe into Mr Pardo's death.

Local reports said the doorman hit his head on the corner of a table as he tried to intervene in the fracas.

But sources said he hit the back of his head directly on the floor and not a table.

Jose Rafael Pisano Pardo was knocked unconscious and evacuated in a serious condition to a hospital in Malaga, Spain where he was admitted to intensive care. He died on Sunday

Unconfirmed local reports have pointed to the doorman (pictured) receiving a punch as he tried to intervene in the fight which led to him hitting his head on the corner of a table as he fell and lost his balance

The restaurant released a statement on Instagram yesterday paying tribute to Mr Pardo

One said: 'The local reports talk of a group of people fighting but it was between two people.

'The doorman went down as he tried to eject one of the two men.'

Another added: 'Elliott had a great relationship with the dead guy and is devastated at what's happened.

'He had worked for him for two years.

'There was an argument between two people in the restaurant and he's fallen on the floor and hit his head after intervening.

'It looks like he slipped after one of the guys he was kicking out pushed or punched him but that's something the police are still investigating.

'He landed awkward and banged his head as he fell backwards.

'The ambulance took about 45 minutes to an hour to come and he was rushed to hospital.'

Mr Pardo had been working as a doorman at Olivia's La Cala for the past two years.

The source added: 'He had swelling on the brain and brain damage because of a lack of oxygen and they said at the hospital he was brain dead.

'They switched the machines off on Sunday.

'Earlier the same day police took all the camera footage away and took down statements from the staff.'

Olivia's La Cala went up in flames in the early hours of April 26, 2021 in an arson attack which is still being investigated and is never believed to have led to any arrests. Pictured: The scene of the fire

In a statement released yesterday, Olivia's La Cala said: 'This weekend we lost a much loved and valued member of our team.

'Our hearts are broken and we have closed the restaurant today and tomorrow out of respect.

'We are supporting our staff and the family whilst awaiting news of further investigations.'

Olivia's La Cala went up in flames in the early hours of April 26, 2021 in an arson attack which is still being investigated and is never believed to have led to any arrests.

The restaurant, which opened in August 2015, had to close so it could be rebuilt.

CCTV footage handed to police showed two masked men with jerrycans breaking into the site shortly before it went up in flames.

The devastating blaze occurred just five weeks after Mr Wright's dad Edward George died from coronavirus.

At the time, Mr Wright said in an Instagram post after it was confirmed the fire had been started deliberately: 'I can say now that it is arson.

'Someone's come and took my whole dream away, for whatever reason I'll never know, because I don't have any enemies as far as I'm aware, I didn't think I did.

'Whether it's jealousy or competition, it doesn't really matter.'
Andrews maintains his innocence and lodged an appeal against the sentence

A British man has been sent down for 10 years in a Moroccan jail after he was found guilty of possessing and spending counterfeit money in Marrakech.

Oliver Andrews, 29, was arrested along with a friend on the morning of November 11 last year, just hours after they'd returned from a nightclub on the final night of their holiday to the Moroccan capital.

They were immediately detained pending an investigation and it was determined that both Andrews and his friend had used counterfeit money in the club.

After languishing in prison on remand for five months, the pair were convicted and sentenced to a decade behind bars on April 11.

Andrews maintains he did not know the money he spent was counterfeit.

His partner Alanna Cornick told the BBC after the sentencing: 'I've been an absolute mess. I'm lost for words - I literally can't believe it,' describing her partner's jail term as 'the worst possible outcome'.

Oliver Andrews, 29, was arrested along with a friend on the morning of November 11 last year

Andrews was found guilty of possessing and spending counterfeit money in Morocco. His partner Alanna Cornick (right) described his conviction as 'the worst possible outcome'

Cornick told the BBC after the sentencing: 'I've been an absolute mess. I'm lost for words - I literally can't believe it'

Andrews' family claimed his treatment at the hands of Moroccan authorities was deplorable.

The family said the two defendants were not given an official translator or the opportunity to speak to a lawyer when they were taken in for questioning and were 'pressured into signing foreign paperwork' which they didn't fully understand.

His family also said Andrews suffers from a heart condition and requires daily medication but was prevented from accessing them for more than a month, raising serious health concerns.

Andrews' solicitor confirmed to the BBC earlier this year he and his friend had also been charged with creating an organised crime group in addition to the counts of possessing and using counterfeit money.

They were acquitted of the organised crime charge last week.

Back in February, Andrews' family also claimed he had not received any help from British authorities despite being adamant he had no idea some of the money he spent was counterfeit.

Andrews' family said he was not given the chance to speak to a lawyer or have a translator when taken in by police

Oliver Andrews, from Bournemouth, had travelled with a friend to Marrakech when they were arrested in November (Andrews pictured with partner Alanna)

'It's been the most emotional 24 hours ever. We've just got to stay hopeful and keep our fingers crossed,' Cornick said at her partner's sentencing

'The British Embassy in Morocco and the FCDO have refused to get involved,' they told the BBC, adding that when they visited Andrews he was 'in a very deteriorating mental and physical state'.

Cornick said: 'We just want to the embassy to do their job and go and visit him, and make sure to check on his welfare.

'The condition that he's living in is just heart-breaking on a daily basis,' she added, claiming he'd told her on the phone he was having suicidal thoughts.

When contacted by MailOnline, the FCDO responded: 'We are supporting two British men who are detained in Morocco.'

Andrews has lodged an appeal against his sentence, and his case will now be heard by another judge in a Moroccan court.

But he has not yet received a fresh court date and will remain behind bars until the hearing takes place.

'It's been the most emotional 24 hours ever. We've just got to stay hopeful and keep our fingers crossed,' Cornick said.
Labour ministers in Wales have announced plans that could see young asylum seekers in the country receive 1,600 a month and taxpayers' cash for legal aid to fight deportation.

The plan, which has been formally sent to Tory Justice Minister Lord Bellamy, is still in the development stage and would need Whitehall approval to go ahead.

Three Welsh Labour ministers - Jane Hutt, Julie Morgan and Mick Antoniw - are signatories of the letter, which demands that all migrants aged 18 and over should get universal basic income without being deprived of legal aid.

The UK Government spends around 6million a day accommodating migrants across the country in hotels, former military bases and barges.

Under the Welsh plan, the Government would provide migrants with both a wage and their lawyers' fees to stop them being deported, reports The Sun.

Under the proposed plan, young migrants in Wales would be entitled to 1,600 a month plus their legal fees

Welsh Social Justice Minister Jane Hutt was among those who signed the letter

The plan also says all migrants who are unaccompanied children to have access to the universal basic income scheme as soon as they turn 18.

The Welsh Labour government has already rolled out a pilot scheme for all those aged 18 who are leaving care to receive 1,600 every month for two years.

However, there are fears that the devolved government's plans could be wrecked by the eligibility of legal aid for children in the asylum system as they do not meet requirements for means-testing.

A means test works out whether a local authority will pay towards your care and looks at how much money you have.

Speaking to The Sun, James Roberts of the Taxpayers' Alliance, expressed doubt over this position, adding: 'Legal aid is rightly means tested.

'Illegal immigrants should not be allowed to claim this cash.'

A Ministry of Justice spokesman said: 'Last year we spent around 30million on legal aid for asylum seekers and we will respond to the letter in due course.'

A Welsh government spokesperson said: 'We believe that care leavers have a right to be properly supported as they develop into independent young adults.

'Too many young people leaving care continue to face significant barriers to achieving a successful transition into adulthood than many of their peers.

'In line with our Nation of Sanctuary approach, we want to ensure that unaccompanied asylum-seeking children are supported to rebuild their lives and are not prevented from accessing appropriate Welsh government schemes and benefits to support their integration.'

MailOnline has approached the Labour Party for comment.
Vladimir Putin today sent up two Tu-95MS nuclear bombers over the Bering and Okhotsk seas in a terrifying new show of strength to the West.

The 150ft 'Bears' flew as part of war games by Russia on its Pacific flank.

The surprise drills, billed as a sudden check on combat readiness, come amid deep tension with the West over the war in Ukraine.

During the lengthy air patrol, which was captured in video footage, the nuclear strike aircraft were refuelled by Il-78 tanker aircraft.

The Tu-95 fleet is an integral part of Russia's nuclear armoury, but the planes have been also used to launch devastating non-atomic missiles, causing large-scale destruction in Ukraine.

It comes just days after Royal Air Force Typhoon jets intercepted a Russian spy aircraft and a pair of fighter planes close to encroaching on NATO airspace over the Baltic Sea.

Vladimir Putin today sent up two Tu-95MS nuclear bombers (pictured) over the Bering and Okhotsk seas

The 'Bears' flew as part of war games by Russia on its Pacific flank

During the lengthy air patrol, which was captured in video footage, the nuclear strike aircraft were refuelled by Il-78 tanker aircraft

Tu-95 strategic bomber Crew: 67 Length: 151ft 7in Wingspan: 164ft 4in Gross weight: 376,990lb Powerplant: 4  Kuznetsov NK-12 turboprop engines 15,000 PS (15,000 hp; 11,000 kW) Max speed: 575 mph Range: 9,300miles Advertisement

The Soviet-era Tu-95s - nicknamed Bears - first flew some 70 years ago.

Separate footage showed the drills underway in eastern Russia, involving attack submarines and live fire drills.

More flights by Putin's nuclear strike aircraft are expected imminently.

Russian Tu-22M3 planes have also been deployed to the war games, TASS reported.

'During the inspection by the crews of the Tu-95MS, air patrolswill continue,' reported Zvezda TV channel, run by the Russian defence ministry.

'All flights of long-range aircraft are carried out in strict accordance with international rules, without violating the borders of other states.'

Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu earlier told Putin that 'strategic missile carriers will fly to the central part of the Pacific Ocean to imitate strikes on ship groups of a mock enemy'.

He did not say which type of strategic bombers would fly on the mission.

Putin told the defence minister in a face-to-face meeting that the Ukraine war must not stop Russia flexing its muscles elsewhere.

'We obviously have clear priorities for the use of the Armed Forces,' he said.

'First of all, this concerns the Ukrainian direction and everything related to the protection of our people in the Donbas and in other new [invaded] territories.

'But the tasks of developing the fleet, including in the Pacific theatre, have not been halted or removed.'

He added: 'I ask you to continue this work, and to pay attention also to the development and preparation of similar events in other fleets.

'The forces of the fleet - in its individual components - can certainly be used in various conflicts.

'So I ask you to keep this in mind, too.

'I am aware both the Ministry [of Defence] and the General Staff are doing this, I know.'

Pictured: Pilot inside one of the Tu-95MS nuclear bombers used during the surprise drills

Pictured: The Gromky corvette and anti-submarine ships of the Pacific Fleet conducted live-fire exercises in the Sea of Japan

Pictured: Tu-95MS nuclear bomber. The Tu-95 fleet is an integral part of Russia's nuclear armoury, but the planes have been also used to launch devastating non-atomic missiles, causing large-scale destruction in Ukraine

Pictured: Tu-95MS nuclear bomber on the runway during surprise drills

The Soviet-era Tu-95s - nicknamed Bears - first flew some 70 years ago

Pictured: Tu-95MS nuclear bomber during drills

Pictured: Tu-95MS nuclear bomber on runway during drills

Yesterday it was reported that Royal Air Force Typhoon jets intercepted a Russian spy aircraft and a pair of fighter planes close to encroaching on NATO airspace over the Baltic Sea on Friday.

The RAF Eurofighter Typhoons teamed up with Germany 's Air Force to buzz their Russian foes who were soaring over the Gulf of Finland and bearing down on Estonia.

One of the aircraft was identified to be a Russian Air Force IL-20 Coot-A intelligence plane headed for the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad which borders Poland. It was being escorted by Su-27 Flanker-B fighter jets.

READ MORE: RAF Typhoons intercept Kremlin fighters and a spy plane near NATO airspace over Baltic Sea A Russian Su-27 is seen flying off the wing of an RAF aircraft over the Baltic Sea on April 14 Advertisement

These intelligence planes are designed to soak up enemy communications and signals for analysis.

Meanwhile, stunning images shared by the allied air forces on social media showed one of the Russian Su-27 jets gliding through the air just metres away from an RAF plane.

'We often see Russian military aircraft flying over the Baltic Sea and so this was a routine intercept for us,' an RAF statement read.

'Nevertheless, the importance of intercepting these aircraft and our commitment to the collective defence of NATO airspace remains steadfast and resolute.

'What this intercept has proven is that together with our German allies, we are able to act with speed and decisiveness to effectively ensure the Alliances security.'

The RAF and German Typhoons escorted the Coot-A and Flanker-Bs through the Estonian flight information region before handing over to Saab Gripen fighters of the Swedish Air Force.

The allies are currently co-operating on Operation Azotize - a NATO Air Policing initiative designed to ensure the security of member nations in eastern Europe close to Ukraine.

The RAF and German Air Force are flying their Eurofighter Typhoon jets out of Amari Air Base in Estonia.

Friday's intercept is the fifth time German and British planes have come into contact with Russian planes near NAO airspace in just six weeks.

'This was another demonstration of our readiness and commitment to react at speed to conduct a live intercept. These combined RAF and German Air Force intercepts continue to enhance NATO cohesion, ensuring seamless cooperation and understanding during these missions,' the RAF concluded.

The latest interception of Russian aircraft came just days after leaked Pentagon documents claimed one of Moscow's fighter jets almost shot down an RAF spy plane over the Black Sea last year - an incident which could have dragged Britain into the war in Ukraine.

On September 29, an RAF RC-135 Rivet Joint surveillance aircraft was flying through international airspace close to the Russian-occupied Crimea peninsula when it was buzzed by a squadron of Moscow's Su-27 fighters.

At the time, British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace acknowledged the incident, telling Parliament that the Russian jets 'recklessly' came within 15ft of the RAF plane and one 'released a missile in the vicinity'.

Russia's defence minister Sergei Shoigu blamed a technical malfunction and Wallace, having spoken with other Russian defence officials, accepted the explanation and drew a line under the incident.

But leaked US military documents have now revealed that the missile launch came agonisingly close to striking the RAF aircraft in an incident that was described as 'a near-shoot down of UK RJ (Rivet Joint)'.

A UK defence source meanwhile disputed this version of events, telling MailOnline: 'These reports contain inaccuracies and do not reflect what happened in International air space over the Black Sea,' referring back to Defence Secretary Wallace's comments to Parliament in October.

Separate footage showed the drills underway in eastern Russia, involving attack submarines and live fire drills

Pictured: Tu-95MS nuclear bomber during surprise drills. More flights by Putin's nuclear strike aircraft are expected imminently

Pictured: The drills in eastern Ukraine

Pictured: Live fire drills in eastern Ukraine

Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu (pictured) earlier told Putin that 'strategic missile carriers will fly to the central part of the Pacific Ocean to imitate strikes on ship groups of a mock enemy'

Pictured: Live fire drills in eastern Ukraine

Pictured: Drills in eastern Ukraine. Putin told the defence minister in a face-to-face meeting that the Ukraine war must not stop Russia flexing its muscles elsewhere

Had a Russian missile blown Rivet Joint out of the sky over the Black Sea, the UK and its NATO allies may have been compelled to war.

According to Article 5 of the founding treaty of NATO, member nations agree that an armed attack against one or more of them 'shall be considered an attack against them all'.

If such an attack does occur, each NATO member will assist the country that has been attacked with any action 'it deems necessary'.

The RAF regularly flies sorties over the Black Sea's international waters, as well the Baltics and eastern Poland, to gather intelligence.

The role of the Rivet Joint aircraft is to hoover up electronic transmissions and communications - the plane is also known as a 'nuke-sniffer' for its ability to detect radioactivity.

British and US aircraft continued to conduct these reconnaissance flights after the hair-raising incident in September, but RAF surveillance aircraft are now escorted by Typhoon fighters while the US resorts to the use of unmanned surveillance drones.

Pentagon spokesman Brig. Gen. Patrick Ryder said last month that it is important to keep the Black Sea and the skies over it open to all nations.

'The Black Sea is a critical international seaway supporting many of our Nato allies, including Romania, Bulgaria and Turkey, and does not belong to any one country,' he said.

A Russian Su-27 jet shadowing an RAF RC-135 spy plane over the Black Sea in September came close to shooting the British aircraft down

Video footage shows the Russian fighter jet approaching the American drone from behind and beginning to release fuel as it passes - the Pentagon said

After the clash, the onboard camera shows a broken propeller (L) and a comparative operational propeller (R) turning. Russia previously said it did not make contact with the drone

READ MORE: Putin's power display: Kremlin clip 'shows leader's first visit to invaded regions Putin was seen pounding pavement in eastern Ukraine amid 'spontaneous' trip Advertisement

Ryder's comments came after yet another aerial incident in which Russian jets dumped fuel on and ultimately crashed into a US surveillance drone last month.

Drone footage showed the shocking moment Moscow's Su-27 jet approached the US MQ-9 unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) from behind and clipped its propeller over international airspace on March 14.

US forces had to bring down the $32million surveillance drone in international waters after the encounter, sparking a race between Moscow and Washington to recover it.

Russian ships were spotted at the crash site on March 15 trying to find the debris, though the Pentagon insisted the parts could not be retrieved and any intelligence had been wiped.

Moscow insisted its jet did not make contact with the drone, and instead blamed 'sharp maneuvering' for the crash.

But experts say it was likely an accidental clash as Russian pilots adopted increasingly aggressive tactics to force the drone to change course.
An Oklahoma sheriff and police staff can be heard moaning about not being able to lynch black people and talking about 'beating, killing and burying' a father and son team of journalists, according to horrifying audio released by a county newspaper.

McCurtain County Sheriff Kevin Clardy, Sheriff's Captain Alicia Manning and District 2 Commissioner Mark Jennings allegedly made the racist comments as they were secretly recorded at a county commission meeting.

In the tapes released by the McCurtain Gazette-News, Manning and Jennings appear to discuss killing reporters Bruce and Chris Willingham, whose family has run the paper for decades.

According to the paper, Jennings tells Clardy and Manning 'I know where two deep holes are dug if you ever need them,' and the sheriff responded, 'I've got an excavator.'

The Commissioner also allegedly says he knows 'two or three hit men' in Louisiana, adding 'they're very quiet guys' and would 'cut no f****** mercy'.

McCurtain Co. Sheriff Kevin Clardy and Sheriff's Captain Alicia Manning have not spoken out since the story broke over the weekend

District 2 Commissioner Mark Jennings allegedly discussed killing journalists and moaning about not being able to lynch black people

As Manning prepared to travel near to the men's newspaper office, she reportedly said that she was 'worried about what I might do to him', referring to Chris Willingham.

She reportedly goes on to say how her father would have 'whipped his ass, would have wiped him and used him for toilet paper,' and 'started to go down there and just kill him'.

In another vile exchange, the group discusses people applying for the role of Sheriff and how they thought the job had changed.

According to the newspaper Jennings says: 'They don't have a goddamn clue what they're getting into. Not this day and age.

'I'm gonna tell you something. If it was back in the day, when that Alan Marshton would take a damn black guy and whoop their ass and throw him in the cell? I'd run for f****** sheriff.'

He went on: 'Take them down to Mud Creek and hang them up with a damn rope. But you can't do that anymore. They got more rights than we got.'

Further audio appears to show the Sheriff and Jail Administrator Larry Hendrix comparing the victim of a house fire to meat on a 'barbecue'.

McCurtain County Sheriff Kevin Clardy has faced calls to resign after the tapes containing racist comments emerged

Sheriff's Captain Alicia Manning can allegedly be heard using threatening language about newspaper journalist Chris Willingham

Discussion about lynching In a short exchange, two men alleged to be District 2 Comissioner Mark Jennings and Sheriff Kevin Clardy can be heard discussing violence against black people. Jennings: It's like somebody wanting this job, they don't realize, like your job. I heard it the other day, said I heard 2 or 12 people were going for sheriff. I said fuck, lets get 20. They don't have a goddamn clue what they're getting into. Not this day and age. I'm gonna tell you something. If it was back in the day, when that when Alan Marshton would take a damn black guy and whoop their ass and throw him in the cell? I'd run for fucking sheriff. Sheriff: Yeah. Well, It's not like that nomore. Jennings: I know. Take them down to Mud Creek and hang them up with a damn rope. But you can't do that anymore. They got more rights than we got. Advertisement

Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt said on Sunday that he is seeking the resignations of Clardy, Manning and Jennings, as well as Hendrix.

'I am both appalled and disheartened to hear of the horrid comments made by officials in McCurtain County,' Stitt said in a statement.

'There is simply no place for such hateful rhetoric in the state of Oklahoma, especially by those that serve to represent the community through their respective office.'

Republican governor Stitt said he has ordered the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation to 'initiate an investigation to determine whether any illegal conduct has occurred.'

Bruce Willingham said he has also turned over his audio recordings to the FBI and the Oklahoma Attorney General's Office and added he has had several conversations with federal investigators.

A spokeswoman for the FBI's office in Oklahoma City said the agency's policy is not to confirm or deny any ongoing investigation.

Phil Bacharach, a spokesman for Attorney General Gentner Drummond, said the agency had received an audio recording and is investigating the incident, but declined to comment further.

The authenticity of the recording could not be immediately verified.

More than 100 people gathered outside the McCurtain County Courthouse in Idabel on Monday, with many of them calling for the sheriff and other county officials to resign over the scandal.

Bruce Willingham, the longtime publisher of the McCurtain Gazette-News, said the recording was made March 6 when he left a voice-activated recorder inside the room after a county commissioner's meeting

He said he did so because he suspected the group was continuing to conduct county business after the meeting had ended in violation of the state's Open Meeting Act.

'I talked on two different occasions to our attorneys to make sure I wasn't doing anything illegal,' Bruce Willingham said.

People from Idabel, call for the resignation of several McCurtain County officials, early Monday after tapes with the officials' racist comments surfaced over the weekend

McCurtain County protests outside a county office after the tapes emerged, with signs calling for the Sheriff to resign

Bruce Willingham said he believes the local officials were upset about 'stories we've run that cast the sheriff's office in an unfavorable light,' including the death of Bobby Barrick, a Broken Bow, Oklahoma, man who died at a hospital in March 2022 after McCurtain County deputies shot him with a stun gun.

The newspaper has filed a lawsuit against the sheriff's office seeking body camera footage and other records connected to Barrick's death.

Joey Senat, a journalism professor at Oklahoma State University, said he was shocked to hear the comments made in the recording, especially in light of recent killings of journalists in the US.

Last year, a Las Vegas-area elected official was accused of fatally stabbing a veteran newspaper reporter who had been investigating him.

'The whole conversation seemed deplorable,' Senat said. 'I was shocked as I assume most people were not only about the comments about journalists, but the racist comments regarding African Americans. Joking doesnt excuse that.'

Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt said Sunday that he was seeking the resignations of Clardy, Manning and Jennings, as well as Jail Administrator Larry Hendrix

Senat said under Oklahoma law, the recording would be legal if it were obtained in a place where the officials being recorded did not have a reasonable expectation of privacy.

McCurtain County is in far southeast Oklahoma, bordering both Arkansas and Texas, in a part of the state often referred to as 'Little Dixie,' because of the influence in the area from white Southerners who migrated there after the Civil War.

With its rolling, forested hills in the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains, the area has become a tourism hotbed attracting a steady stream of visitors from the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

State Rep. Eddy Dempsey, a Republican who represents the area in the Oklahoma House, said the recorded comments don't reflect the values of his constituents and echoed Stitt's call for the four people involved in the conversation to resign.

'All my life, we've always said we don't get enough recognition in southeast Oklahoma,' Dempsey said. 'But we don't need this kind of recognition.'
The downfall of a former Home and Away child star has taken another sad turn after it was revealed he assaulted a friend's dad and demanded $300 in cash.

Felix Dean was sentenced to prison on Tuesday for common assault following the clash with a friend's father on October 21 last year.

Dean, who was homeless at the time of the attack, was also sentenced at Waverley Local Court in Sydney for breaching a community correction order.

The order had been given to him for kicking a police officer during lockdown and stealing an iPhone from a store worker.

However, he will avoid jail after his sentences were backdated and the judge gave him discounts for his mental health struggles and deprived background.

Felix Dean was sentenced to prison at Waverley Local Court in Sydney on Tuesday for common assault after he grabbed the arm of a friend's father and demanded cash

Dean was just ten when he got his big break on Home and Away, acting alongside Ada Nicodemou as her on-screen son VJ Patterson

It is the latest brush with the law for Dean, who was just ten years old when he got his big break on Home and Away, acting alongside Ada Nicodemou as her on-screen son VJ Patterson from 2007 to 2014.

He began smoking cannabis aged 14 and moved onto 'ice' within twelve months, at first inhaling the potent drug and then injecting it.

Magistrate Ross Hudson said Dean struggled with major depressive order, PTSD and drug-induced psychosis.

His most recent assault was in breach of parole and several community correction orders.

Dean had been out of prison for a few months when he saw the man, whose son he went to school with for 11 years.

Felix Dean has fallen hard and fast since his days as a Home and Away child star

The magistrate said the assault came after three years of conflict.

'The accused approached the victim from behind, yelling at him  the victim recognised him,' Magistrate Hudson said, according to news.com.au.

'The accused inquired about the whereabouts (of his son)  (and) told him (his son) owed him $300 for an undisclosed reason. The accused seemed agitated and demanded the victim give him money'.

Dean grabbed the man's arms and demanded the money, with the victim threatening to call the police. Dean then left the scene.

Magistrate Hudson added: 'I note an explanation given in an apology letter to court, Dean says 'it is not lost on me that my actions have caused great deal of pain to my family'. I was homeless, drunk all time, living a chaotic lifestyle, addicted to methamphetamine'. He says he recognises the need to change path he's on.'

Appearing via video link from custody, Dean put his head in his hands but appeared relieved when Magistrate Hudson said he could be released on parole to his mother's home.

Addressing Dean on Tuesday, Magistrate Hudson said: 'The mental health (issues are) there, you can't deny it. You won't get on top of things. You need to get rid of drugs from your life. (If you do), the feelings you're trying to numb with drugs won't necessarily be there'.

Dean was nominated for Best Young Actor at the 2008 and 2009 Inside Soap Awards For his portrayal of VJ. He disappeared from the spotlight altogether after the gig

Dean was first locked up for 86 days in 2021 before being released into the care of his mother under strict bail conditions.

He then spent 37 days at Gordon Private Hospital and was in effective home detention until his addiction got out of hand again in June.

Dean was jailed in October 2021 after he attacked a tobacconist with a hammer - the fourth time he had been arrested in two years.

Dean was nominated for Best Young Actor at the 2008 and 2009 Inside Soap Awards for his portrayal of VJ Patterson. He disappeared from the spotlight altogether after the gig.
A grandmother who arranged for her daughter-in-law to be murdered in a so-called honour killing in India has been freed from prison  despite a bid by Justice Secretary Dominic Raab to keep her locked up.

Bachan Kaur Athwal, now 86, was jailed in 2007 for ordering the murder of 27-year-old Surjit Athwal after learning she was having an affair and wanted to divorce her son.

Athwal, then 70, was sentenced alongside her son Sukhdave for ordering the murder of Surjit, from Hayes, in west London, who went missing during a trip to India in 1998.

MailOnline revealed in June last year that the Parole Board had recommended that Athwal, who is in poor health and suffers from dementia, should be released on licence.

A month later, this website revealed how the Parole Board decision had been challenged by the Justice Secretary, who argued that the panel placed inappropriate weight on 'health factors' and 'failed to consider appropriately risk-related evidence'.

Bachan Kaur Athwal, now 86, (pictured in 2007) was jailed that year for ordering the murder of 27-year-old Surjit Athwal after learning she was having an affair and wanted to divorce her son

Athwal's daughter-in-law Surjit Kaur Athwal seen at a wedding in India shortly before she disappeared in 2007

Athwal and Surjit seen at a wedding in India shortly before the daughter-in-law disappeared in 2007

Mr Raab also argued the panel failed 'to consider the non-disclosure of information about victims'.

Despite the appeal, the Parole Board rejected the minister's arguments.

MailOnline can reveal that Athwal was released from prison in August last year and is believed to be being looked after by family under certain restrictions.

Athwal and son Sukhdave, then aged 43, were sentenced to life after being found guilty of the honour killing of Surjit.

At the time, Athwal was one of the oldest people in the country to be jailed for murder.

Surjit disappeared after travelling with her mother-in-law from the UK to India for a family wedding in December 1998.

The young bride  who was forcibly wed to Sukhdave at 16  was subsequently murdered but her body has never been found.

MailOnline revealed in June last year that the Parole Board had recommended that Athwal, who is in poor health and suffers from dementia, should be released on licence

Athwal and her son Sukhdave Athwal (pictured), then aged 43, were sentenced to life after being found guilty of the honour killing of Surjit

Athwal and her family treated Surjit like a slave and plotted to kill her over fears she was too rebellious and was tarnishing the family name.

Mum-of-two Surjit lived with the family in Hayes and is said to have suffered abuse in the home.

Sukhdave took out a 100,000 insurance policy on his wife the day she left for India  but it did not pay out.

He later divorced Surjit in her absence, claiming she deserted him, and then married someone else.

Before her release, the Justice Secretary argued that Athwal still posed a risk to society.

In May last year, she slapped her daughter during a prison visit and assaulted a member of staff and another inmate on two separate occasions.

In Athwal's appeal, the prison offender manager gave evidence that before the onset of dementia she had shown no instances of aggression.

The assaults were described as 'low level' because nobody was injured.

Medical tests suggested elderly Athwal 'would be difficult to manage in exactly the same way as any other person suffering from dementia and no more'.
US-Pakistan Joint Efforts Against Terrorism: Opportunities and Challenges

by Muhammad Wasama Khalid

In 2022, terrorist acts caused the deaths of over 643 individuals, a 120% increase over 2021 in Pakistan. Extremist organizations that resort to violence to further their political or religious agendas are a persistent source of terrorism in the modern era. These terrorist organizations often attack unarmed bystanders, leading to extensive devastation and unrest.

When it comes to fighting terrorism, relations between the United States and Pakistan have a tumultuous past. Pakistan has received substantial financial and military backing from the United States since the 9/11 attacks in 2001. In return, Pakistan has helped the United States in various anti-terrorism operations, leading to the detention of some prominent terrorists.

File photo of Lt Gen (retd) Faiz Hameed (right) while he was the countrys spymaster with then prime minister Imran Khan. [Photo credit: aajenglish.tv]

Terrorist groups like the Taliban and Al Qaeda are based there and threaten not just Pakistan but also the United States. The advent of the Islamic State (ISIS) in recent years has further complicated the already precarious security situation in the area. The United States and Pakistan need to work together if they want to win the fight against terrorism.

To combat terrorism in the region, this article will investigate potential areas of cooperation between the United States and Pakistan. Increased information sharing and coordination, strengthened border security measures, increased capability in law enforcement and intelligence agencies, and tackling terrorisms underlying causes will be the articles primary focus.

The Opportunities for United States and Pakistani Cooperation:

The United States and Pakistans counterterrorism operations have relied heavily on intelligence sharing and coordination. The United States has exchanged information on terrorist groups operating within Pakistan, while Pakistan has informed the United States about its activities and the terrorist risks in the area. Yet, development is possible here. The United States (US) may help Pakistan improve its intelligence-gathering skills by providing it with cutting-edge technology and training, while Pakistan can help the US by providing it with more timely and accurate information.

The border between Afghanistan and Pakistan is lengthy and poorly patrolled, making it easy for terrorists and weapons to slip into neighboring countries. More manpower and technological resources stationed at the border may go a long way toward solving this problem. Pakistan may take efforts to strengthen its border infrastructure and administration, while the United States can offer equipment and training to boost Pakistans border security capabilities.

To combat terrorism in the area, it is essential to strengthening local law enforcement and intelligence institutions. Pakistans law enforcement and intelligence services may benefit from training and tools provided by the United States to improve its ability to detect and react to terrorist threats. Reforms to decrease corruption and promote accountability are two examples of what Pakistan may do to boost the professionalism and efficiency of its law enforcement and intelligence institutions.

Challenges to US-Pakistani Cooperation:

The disparity in interests and goals between the United States and Pakistan is a key obstacle to their collaborative efforts against terrorism. The United States has important strategic interests in the area, including maintaining peace and order, countering international terrorism, and safeguarding its regional allies. Pakistan, on the other hand, has its national interests, including the protection and promotion of Pakistani sovereignty, economic growth, and security.

Because of their divergent goals, the two nations may find themselves at odds with one another. Pakistan, for instance, has been blamed by the United States for funding terrorist groups. Pakistan, on the other hand, claims the United States violates its sovereignty by conducting drone attacks within its territory and refuses to acknowledge Pakistans achievements in the battle against terrorism.

Terrorism-fighting operations are complicated by mistrust and misunderstanding between the United States and Pakistan. There have been mutual accusations of lack of transparency, broken promises, and withheld information from both sides. For instance, the United States has accused Pakistan of not providing enough information on terrorist operations in the area, while Pakistan has accused the United States of not providing enough early notice of drone attacks. Such misunderstandings and hostility might impede the two nations ability to work together to counter the terrorist threat.

The United States and Pakistans ability to work together in the fight against terrorism may be hampered by domestic political issues in both countries. Cooperation between the United States and Pakistan may be hampered by the countrys political instability, corruption, and the presence of extremist organizations inside the government. Internal politics in the United States can impact the countrys foreign policy and the way it interacts with Pakistan. Some American legislators, for instance, have argued that assistance cuts to Pakistan are warranted because of the countrys perceived lack of resolve in the war on terror. These kinds of activities may put a strain on US-Pakistan relations and make it harder for the two countries to work together to combat the terrorist threat.

Several terrorist organizations continue to carry out attacks in Pakistan and the broader South Asian area, highlighting the need of overcoming obstacles. Failure to properly cooperate might lead to increased instability and bloodshed, which is why the United States and Pakistan have a shared interest in addressing this danger.

When the United States and Pakistan work together successfully to combat terrorism, it may have positive ripple effects beyond just those two countries. Efforts to combat terrorism may also help curb the spread of extremist ideas and strengthen communities.

Less collaboration, the expansion of extremist organizations, and an increase in bloodshed and instability in the area are all possible outcomes if the United States and Pakistan fail to solve the difficulties plaguing their strategic alliance. It might also lead to a deterioration in ties between the two nations, which would have far-reaching repercussions for international harmony.

To meet the difficulties and assure long-term collaboration, it is crucial to keep up the efforts to enhance the strategic partnership for counterterrorism. More regional stability, more rapid economic growth, and warmer connections with other countries are only some of the possible outcomes of effective collaboration in the fight against terrorism. The sustained dedication of both nations to working together towards these shared objectives is crucial to the success of these initiatives.

Muhammad Wasama Khalid is a Correspondent and Researcher at Global Affairs. He is pursuing his Bachelors in International Relations at National Defense University (NDU). He has a profound interest in history, politics, current affairs, and international relations. He is an author of Global village space, Global defense insight, Global Affairs, and modern diplomacy. He tweets at @Wasama Khalid and can be reached at Wasamakhalid@gmail.com
Police Scotland has released SNP treasurer Colin Beattie pending further investigation after quizzing him for 12 hours over the party's funding and finances when Nicola Sturgeon was in charge.

Mr Beattie, 71, the MSP for Midlothian North and Musselburgh, was being held by detectives probing what happened to more than 600,000 in donations to the Scottish National Party.

His release comes after First Minister Humza Yousaf denied the SNP had been operating in a 'criminal way' earlier today.

The First Minister said he was 'surprised' that Police Scotland had detained Mr Beattie this morning and it was 'far from ideal' on a day he was hoping to reset his young leadership.

A spokesman for the force said: 'A 71-year-old man who was arrested earlier today, Tuesday, 18 April 2023, as a suspect in connection with the ongoing investigation into the funding and finances of the Scottish National Party, has been released without charge pending further investigation.

'The man was questioned by Police Scotland detectives. A report will be sent to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service.

The First Minister said he was 'surprised' that Police Scotland had detained MSP Colin Beattie this morning and it was 'far from ideal' on a day he was hoping to reset his young leadership

Police Scotland have released SNP treasurer Colin Beattie pending further enquiries after quizzing him for 12 hours over finances when Nicola Sturgeon was in charge

Asked if the SNP was acting in a 'criminal way' he said: ' I don't believe it is.'

It comes a fortnight after Nicola Sturgeon's husband Peter Murrell, the former party chief executive, was arrested and then released

'The matter remains active for the purposes of the Contempt of Court Act 1981 and the public are therefore advised to exercise caution if discussing it on social media.

'As the investigation is ongoing we are unable to comment further.'

Sky News reports that Mr Beattie arrived back at his home in his own vehicle around 30 minutes after being released on another difficult day for the SNP.

Why is the SNP under investigation? The SNP is being investigated over donations of more than 600,000 it received between 2017 and 2020 to bankroll a new attempt to split the United Kingdom. Questions have been raised over what happened to that money after Boris Johnson, as prime minister, blocked the new vote. SNP accounts showed it had less than 100,000 in the bank at the end of 2019, plus assets of 272,000. An investigation was launched in July 2021 after complaints were received. Detectives are looking at claims that the cash was diverted elsewhere. Mr Murrell was the party's chief executive from 1999 until he resigned in the middle of the leadership election to replace his wife last month. In May 2021 MP Douglas Chapman resigned from his role as the party's treasurer, saying he had not been given enough information to do his job. Joanna Cherry, a vocal internal critic of the party's leadership, also resigned from her role on the national executive committee (NEC). Mr Murrell and Ms Sturgeon have faced questions over an interest-free loan he made to the party. Mr Murrell gave 107,620 to the party to 'assist with cashflow' on June 20, 2021, Electoral Commission documents revealed in December. Advertisement

It comes a fortnight after Nicola Sturgeon's husband Peter Murrell, the party's former chief executive, was arrested and then released.

Officers also searched their Glasgow family home and the SNP headquarters in Edinburgh.

Mr Yousaf arrived at Holyrood this afternoon ahead of his first major statement to MSPs as First Minister.

Asked if the SNP was acting in a 'criminal way' he told reporters: 'I don't believe it is.'

He added that he had been unable to speak to Mr Beattie as he was still being detailed by police.

But Meghan Gallacher, the deputy leader of the Scottish Conservatives, told Holyrood the SNP was in 'meltdown'.

'The FM makes this statement today as scandal continues to engulf his party,' she said.

'The SNP is in total meltdown. Its former chief executive and now its current treasurer have been arrested amid a police investigation into the party's finances.

'Leaked footage has shown Nicola Sturgeon trying to shut down scrutiny mere months before the investigation began. Yet Humza Yousaf is so indebted to his former mentors that he will not do the right thing and suspend them while the investigation is ongoing.'

Mr Yousaf had hoped that setting out the priorities for his premiership in his first major policy statement would help move the party on.

The First Minister, who narrowly won the SNP leadership election last month, used a statement to the Scottish Parliament to set out what he wants his government to deliver over the next three years.

But he immediately rowed back on two key SNP plans. Scotland's deposit return scheme (DRS) for bottles has been pushed back to March 2024 amid complaints from businesses. A plan to tighten alcohol advertising rules has also been restarted.

The SNP is being investigated over donations of more than 600,000 it received between 2017 and 2020 to bankroll a new attempt to split the United Kingdom.

Questions have been raised over what happened to that money after Boris Johnson, as prime minister, blocked the new vote.

SNP accounts showed it had less than 100,000 in the bank at the end of 2019, plus assets of 272,000.

Mr Beattie arrived back at his home in his own vehicle around 30 minutes after being released on another difficult day for the SNP. Pictured: Mr Beattie's constituency office in Dalkeith

His arrest was another blow for new SNP First Minister Humza Yousaf, who was hoping to move on from the crisis today

An investigation was launched in July 2021 after complaints were made. Detectives are looking at claims that the cash was diverted elsewhere.

Mr Murrell was the party's chief executive from 1999 until he resigned in the middle of the leadership election last month.

In May 2021 MP Douglas Chapman resigned from his role as treasurer, saying he had not been given enough information to do his job. Joanna Cherry, a vocal internal critic of the party's leadership, also resigned from her role on the national executive committee (NEC).

Mr Murrell and Ms Sturgeon have faced questions over an interest-free loan he made to the party.

Mr Murrell gave 107,620 to the party to 'assist with cashflow' on June 20, 2021, Electoral Commission documents revealed in December.

Scottish Labour deputy leader Jackie Baillie said: 'This is yet another deeply concerning development and the Police Scotland investigation must be allowed to proceed without interference.

'For too long, a culture of secrecy and cover-up has been allowed to fester at the heart of the SNP.

'And while the investigation spreads, the SNP is still refusing to take the basic step of suspending MSPs who are the subject of police inquiries.

Mr Murrell and Ms Sturgeon (pictured in 2019) have faced questions over an interest-free loan he made to the party

'Humza Yousaf's inaction raises questions  is his priority the cover up to protect the SNP or the people of Scotland?'

Mr Yousaf's statement, which will be accompanied by a policy paper, is expected to fall under three key themes of equality, opportunity and community  building on the Scottish Government's legislative agenda in the programme for government and the Bute House agreement.

Mr Yousaf, who said he had 'promised to lead Scotland in the interests of all our people', added: 'My cabinet has considered how we can build a better future for Scotland and the outcomes necessary to achieve that.

'Through a determined focus on reducing poverty and strengthening public services, seizing the opportunity to build a growing and green wellbeing economy through the net zero transition and supporting business, and reaffirming our commitment to equality, inclusion, and human rights in everything we do.

'We will do so using the powers of devolution to their maximum, whilst making the case that as an independent nation, we can do so much more to make Scotland a wealthier, fairer, and greener country.'

Since being made First Minister around three weeks ago, Mr Yousaf said, his government had 'tripled our support for households struggling with high energy bills with our 30million fuel insecurity fund, announced an additional 25million to help the north east become the net zero capital of the world, and reinforced our commitment to supporting families with a 15million investment in free high-quality school age childcare'.

He said the measures would 'make a real difference' and had come as a response 'to the challenges presented by our ongoing recovery from the Covid pandemic and a cost of living crisis exacerbated by Brexit and the UK Government's economic mismanagement, as well as climate change impacts and Russia's invasion of Ukraine'.
It is a nursery rhyme that every Briton will have heard at one time or another.

Since the 18th-Century London Bridge is Falling Down has kept children entertained for generations.

But on this day in 1968, the real London Bridge, which had stood since 1831, was sold to an eccentric American businessman - before being rebuilt in the Arizona desert.

Over the course of three years, it was pulled down stone by stone and then put back up in the new Lake Havasu City, built by industrialist Robert P McCulloch.

Amid ultimately disproven rumours that McCulloch had thought he was buying Tower Bridge, the venture proved a huge success as the old stones of London drew millions of tourists to Lake Havasu.

Today, the bridge remains the city's key attraction, with its granite blocks now surviving the intense sunshine and temperatures that regularly rise beyond 40C.

On this day in 1968, the real London Bridge, which had stood since 1831, was sold to an eccentric American businessman - before being rebuilt in the Arizona desert. Above: London Bridge is seen crossing Havasu Lake at Lake Havasu City in May 1972

The bridge opened to huge fanfare in its new destination in October 1971. A hot air balloon was released into the air, pulling drapery from a gleaming plaque. Above: The bridge is seen in the background as the balloon stands on the ground before being released

The London Bridge that was sent to Arizona was opened by King William IV.

It had featured in Charles Dickens's novel Little Dorrit and was a famous part of the capital.

The bridge that it had replaced has stood since 1209 and there had been other structures since the Roman occupation of Britain in the first century.

The 1831 bridge was put up for sale because it was too narrow to cope with increasingly wide modern cars, buses and trucks.

It had also been sinking by around one inch every four years. Its concrete replacement, which still stands today, opened in 1973.

The idea to sell it to an American had come from former journalist Ivan Luckin, who was then serving on the body responsible for London's bridges.

There was also precedent for such a venture. Newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst had bought several old European buildings and shipped them to his huge estate in the US.

American businessman Robert P McCulloch, who had enjoyed financial success selling chainsaws. Above: McCulloch with one of his chainsaws in 1952

Work on the dismantling of the old London Bridge over the River Thames. The parts that were to be moved were numbered so that they could be put up correctly once in the US

People and traffic are seen crossing the original London Bridge in 1900, when it had been standing for nearly 70 years

Traffic is seen passing across the old London Bridge in 1964. It was opened by King William IV in 1831 and had featured in Charles Dickens's novel Little Dorrit

The new London Bridge opened in March 1973. The concrete structure still stands today

Luckin had a sales brochure printed and then went to find a buyer. In stepped McCulloch, who was part-way through building his new city next to Lake Havasu.

The lake had been formed by the damming of the Colorado River.

The Daily Mail's 1968 report of the bridge's move to Arizona

But because the water at one end was going stagnant, McCulloch decided to redirect it and turn the peninsula into an island.

He then decided that the old London Bridge would be the perfect showpiece structure to get people and traffic to the island and back.

The businessman paid around $2.4million for the bridge's stones, which weighed more than 30,000 tonnes.

Also purchased were the bridge's original orante lampposts, which had been made from melted-down cannons captured after Britain's victory over Napoleon at the Battle of Waterloo.

It took nearly three years to dismantle and re-erect. Each stone that was to go abroad had to be numbered so that it could be re-constructed once in the US.

The stones were put onto a cargo ship that sailed through the Panama Canal to Long Beach, California. They were then taken by truck to Lake Havasu City.

The bridge's foundation stone in its new destination was laid by Sir Gilbert Inglefield, the then Lord Mayor of London, in September 1968.

Amazingly, the bridge was built on dry land, before sand was dug out from underneath to create a mile-long channel that was filled with water.

The project was overseen by British engineer Robert Beresford.

As detailed in 2013 book London Bridge in America, by Travis Elborough, some of the stones were still pockmarked with shrapnel damage from the Second World War or etched with ancient graffiti.

After a new substructure had been built, the original stones were gradually incorporated into it.

Whilst some stones were put in upside down or in the wrong order, the completed bridge was the spitting image of its original iteration back in Britain.

To celebrate the bridge's opening, a tent that stood 40feet high was erected to host a gala dinner. Above: The tent is seen on the bridge

When the bridge opened in October 1971, thousands of people flocked across it

Miss Lake Havasu City, Deborah Dennis shows the reconstructed London Bridge to Sir Peter M Studd, the Lord Mayor of London, on the eve of its official opening

London Bridge is seen in Lake Havasu City in 1994. It remains a popular tourist attraction

Once the bridge was completed, dynamite was used to fill the new channel beneath it with water from Lake Havasu.

In contrast to the dirty water of the Thames, a streak of clear blue now ran beneath the bridge.

In a sweltering day in October 1971, with temperatures hitting more than 40C (105F), the then lord mayor of London Sir Peter Stud was present as the bridge was opened.

A huge parade filled with revellers in fancy dress was there to mark the occasion.

They included a brace of Maid Marians, Puritans, cowboys and some Dickensian chimney sweeps.

A tent that stood 40feet high was erected to host a gala dinner on the bridge in the evening.

Inside were huge chandeliers hanging from the roof and suits of armour and coats of arms adorning the walls.

It was as if medieval England had come with the bridge to the desert. A recording of the chimes of Big Ben were also used to signal the start of the festivities.

The next day, the visitors from Britain were treated to a parachute display and a trip on a miniature paddle steamer, before renditions of God Save the Queen and the Star Spangled Banner were played.

In a speech, the Lord Mayor hoped that the bridge would serve as a 'lasting monument' to the 'bonds of friendships and mutual goodwill... between the American and British people'.

The Mayor then helped to release a hot air balloon into the sky. As it rose into the air, the balloon pulled away a piece of fabric that was covering a commemorative plaque.

Then, until sunset, what author Mr Elborough described as 'a cross between a Fourth of July parade and an episode of game show It's a Knockout' ensued until sunset.

There were Chemehuevi Indians in full battle dress, and Boy Scouts holding flags for each of the US's 50 states.

There were also bicyclists riding Penny-farthings and men dressed as Yeomen of the Guard.

What might have seemed like a gimmick by McCulloch worked.

The old London Bridge is seen in Arizona in October 2021, when the city marked the 50th anniversary of it opening

Within three years of the bridge re-opening, Lake Havasu was receiving three million visitors a year, many of whom were drawn by the huge chunks of English history at its heart.

It was so popular that it became the biggest tourist attraction in the United States after the Grand Canyon.

Today, the bridge is still a central part of Lake Havasu City, performing its purpose admirably.

Each year, events and festivals are held on and around the bridge, whilst several hundred bats live in its nooks and crannies.
A glamorous businesswoman who squandered more than 3.5million after developing a secret gambling addiction has been spared prison.

Juliana 'Leah' Posman, 43, racked up huge debts while gambling on movements on the German DAX stock market index.

But when she was pursued by her creditors she decided to lie about her debts to escape bankruptcy.

On Friday she was spared a prison sentence after being found guilty of making a false representation.

It is not the first time Posman, who worked for an IT company, has duped someone into handing over large sums of cash to feed her gambling addiction.

Juliana 'Leah' Posman racked up huge debts while gambling on movements on the German DAX stock market index

Her husband Christopher Forte had no idea that she had borrowed 2.5million from two London businessmen

Mr Forte received a letter from the men saying they had lent Posman 2.5million and that they had been told he would guarantee the loans

In 2018 her then husband Christopher Forte, 41, told how he repeatedly gave into demands for cash from his Indonesian-born wife.

Despite being married to a British citizen, she told her husband she needed large sums of money to show she had assets of 5million in order to get a visa.

Unknown to him she also allegedly borrowed 2.5million from two London businessmen.

Posman had become addicted to gambling and was spread-betting on movements on the German stock exchange.

But she lost huge amounts, racking up large debts to the spread-betting broker CMC Spread Bet and when she split from her husband she faced bankruptcy.

Lewes Crown Court in East Sussex heard that instead of declaring her debt she 'tried to gamble her way of it'.

She misled her creditors by failing to declare a debt of 91,746.93 with CMC Spread Bet and then continued to bet with another firm.

The couple married in a 20,000 civil ceremony at the Grosvenor Hotel in London in 2014

Posman told her husband she needed large sums of money to show she had assets of 5million to get a visa

She had become addicted to gambling and was spread-betting on the German stock exchange

In a bid to avoid bankruptcy she had entered into an individual voluntary arrangement (IVA) - a legally binding agreement with creditors to repay debts over a period of time.

But she failed to declare the 90,000 debt she had racked up with CMC Spread Bet.

She was arrested and charged with making a false representation for the purpose of obtaining approval of creditors.

Andrew Herd, prosecuting, told the court: 'We would say this was a calculated omission and the decision not to include the information about the debt, even in the face of advice to make a full disclosure, was motivated by the financial and practical benefits of avoiding bankruptcy.'

Jurors unanimously found her guilty of a single charge of making a false representation.

Judge Stephen Mooney sentenced the businesswoman to 12 months in prison, suspended for 18 months.

An Insolvency Service spokesperson said: 'Juliana Posman sought to flagrantly abuse the bankruptcy process and leave creditors out of pocket by taking out the individual voluntary arrangement without disclosing the significant debt from her gambling account.

'This is a serious offence and her conviction should serve as a warning to anyone else that trying to escape debts in this way is wholly unacceptable.'

Posman - who moved to the UK when she was 20 - met her husband, a former pupil of Lancing College in West Sussex, in 2010 when they were both working for an IT firm in Egham, Surrey.

Mr Forte - a distant relation to the Forte hotel family - married her in a 20,000 civil ceremony at the Grosvenor Hotel in London in 2014.

A second wedding followed a few months later for around 100 of her Chinese-Indonesian family in Indonesia, followed by a luxury honeymoon in Bali.

Soon afterwards, though, the problems began when she started to ask him for large sums of money.

Despite earning 90,000 a year working at a credit and law firm, Posman said she needed to build up a large sum in her bank account to show she had assets of her own.

However, her story unravelled in 2016 when Mr Forte received a letter from Warren Roiter, who told him that he and his business partner Isaac Kaye had lent Posman 2.5million.

They claimed they had been told Mr Forte would guarantee the loans, but he knew nothing about them.

Posman was in Indonesia at the time, but confessed when she returned to their smart flat in Balham, south London.

She claimed she had given 750,000 to her brother, 250,000 to her parents and lost several million spread betting.

Mr Forte claims he lent his wife 45,000, while his retired parents handed their daughter-in-law 131,000.

The couple split up and divorced in 2017 with Posman pledging to pay back almost 170,000

Last week, Posman escaped an immediate prison sentence after being found guilty of making a false representation

The couple split up and divorced in 2017, with Posman pledging to pay back almost 170,000 at a rate of 1,700 a month.

Judge Mooney said: 'She seems to be addicted to spread-betting which is very high risk and she tried to gamble her way out of it. That's a classic trait in someone who is addicted to gambling.'

He ordered Posman to carry out 200 hours of unpaid work and attend 20 hours of rehabilitation to address her gambling problem.
A father of three who hacked into hundreds of webcams across the world so he could spy on women undressing and having sex is facing jail after IT specialists tipped off the FBI.

Christopher Taylor, 60, was caught when IT staff at the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta alerted the FBI after the malware was found on the laptop of a student at its aerospace laboratory.

Taylor had tricked 772 people in 39 different countries into unwittingly relinquishing control of their computers so he could monitor their private lives over a three-year period.

Police believe 47 women were secretly watched by the married man from his laptop at his 170,000 semi-detached home in Wigan, Greater Manchester, while engaging in sexual activity with their partners.

A prosecutor said the malware was detected on a student's laptop by the 'sophisticated spyware systems' at Georgia Institute of Technology. FBI agents were able to link it back to Taylor's unassuming home in north-west England.

Christopher Taylor, 60, pictured outside Bolton Crown Court, hacked into hundreds of webcams across the world so he could spy on women undressing and having sex

Taylor's home in Wigan, Greater Manchester, where police believe he secretly watched 47 women

The investigation found Taylor had deleted thousands of files before his arrest.

When British police raided his home, Taylor - a full-time carer for his wife Wendy - told officers: 'It's just what I've been meddling with on the computer.'

He faced extradition proceedings to be tried in the US for wire and computer fraud, but the request was turned down after a judge in London ruled it would 'negatively impact' his ailing wife.

More than seven years after his original arrest, Taylor could be jailed today after he admitted voyeurism and securing unauthorised access to computer material.

Taylor also admitted possession of extreme pornography after obscene images were found on his devices.

He lured in his unwitting victims with a phony link he placed on porn sites which, when clicked, would allow him full access to their laptop's function, Bolton Crown Court heard.

He was found to have amassed a huge cache of 80,000 images and videos dating from between 2012 and 2015.

'Many of these images and videos captured people eating, working, lying in bed and doing yoga,' Neil Fryman, prosecuting, told the hearing.

'However, there were also a number of images that showed people in various stages of undress and involved in sexual activity.'

The married father of three, who is a full-time carer for his wife Wendy, is now facing up to two years in jail

The Federal Bureau of Investigation headquarters in Washington DC

Andrew Jebb, defending, said his client 'still struggles to provide an obvious answer as to why all of this began'.

He told the court that Taylor's obsession 'merely started out as an interest in viruses before it developed into something more sinister'.

Taylor - who has been diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome  previously claimed he had not used the malware for 'sexual gratification' or targeted anyone in particular, but had an 'obsessive interest in computers and hacking'.

The failed extradition bid in 2020 heard he had become 'fascinated' by the idea that he would be able to see through other people's webcams - describing it as an 'addiction'.

He faces a maximum of two years in prison.
His lawyer Tina Glandian has told how his time in jail 'took a toll' on influencer

Andrew Tate is under house arrest on suspicion of human trafficking and rape

Andrew Tate's time in a Romanian jail has 'taken its toll' on the influencer and left him unable to sleep more than two hours a night, his lawyer said.

Tate, 36, was arrested on December 29 in Bucharest along with his brother Tristan and two Romanian women on suspicion of human trafficking, rape and forming an organised crime group to exploit victims.

The notorious misogynist spent three months in prison before being put under house arrest last month after winning an appeal against a judge's decision to extend his time in jail for a fourth time.

Tate's lawyer, Tina Glandian, said his time in prison has 'taken its toll' and he's 'struggling to process' what he's been through.

But Tate posted a video of himself eating pizza behind piles of takeaway boxes as an apparent jibe at his infamous arrest following a spat with climate activist Greta Thunberg.

Tate's lawyer, Tina Glandian, said his time in prison has 'taken its toll' and he's 'struggling to process' what he's been through

But Tate today posted a video of himself eating pizza behind piles of pizza boxes as an apparent jibe at his infamous arrest following a spat with climate activist Greta Thunberg

Tate, smoking a cigar while being topless and wearing shorts with the American flag on them, is seen in the video sitting down on his chair and eating a slice of pizza behind the stacked boxes.

Last year, Tate posted similar footage of himself eating from a pizza box in a video where he ranted about Thunberg who had said he had 'small d*** energy' after he boasted about the 'enormous emissions' his supercars produce.

It was reported at the time that the images of the pizza box allowed Romanian police to locate the influencer and arrest him; claims which have since been denied by authorities.

But Tate mocked his infamous 'pizza box' arrest today with a video of him eating pizza alongside the caption: 'Do it. I don't live in fear.'

Meanwhile, Glandian, who also represents Tristan, told Piers Morgan Uncensored last night: 'The three months in jail certainly took a toll on them and I know Andrew has told me, he right now has a lot of trouble sleeping.

'He can't sleep more than two hours a night. And you know, it really took a toll so they're struggling with the process and what they've been through.'

The lawyer said the brothers are now focused on training and regaining a 'strong mind'.

'They believe a strong body is a strong mind. They're back to their training and fitness and health and focusing on those things and trusting their attorneys and the process to play out and for them to eventually clear their names,' Glandian said.

Prosecutors have said the Tate brothers recruited their victims by seducing them and falsely claiming to want a relationship or marriage.

The victims were then taken to properties on the outskirts of the capital, Bucharest, and coerced to produce pornographic content for social media sites that generated large financial gain, prosecutors say.

Now the brothers are under house arrest, Glandian said they are able to have visitors over to their home as well as free reign on communicating with friends and family. They are also allowed to use social media again.

Meanwhile, Glandian, who also represents Tristan, told Piers Morgan Uncensored last night: 'The three months in jail certainly took a toll on them and I know Andrew has told me, he right now has a lot of trouble sleeping.'

Andrew Tate and his brother Tristan arrive outside the Directorate for Investigating Organized Crime and Terrorism (DIICOT), where prosecutors examine electronic equipment confiscated during the investigation in their case, in Bucharest, Romania, on April 10

Under the court restrictions, they are not allowed to speak to their two alleged accomplices, former police officer Luana Radu and Georgiana Naghel, who are also under house arrest, as well as any alleged victims or witnesses.

Glandian slammed the Romanian authorities for still not formally charging Tate and his brother after a year of investigations, saying it is 'troubling'.

'This month actually marks the one year since this investigation first began,' she said.

'The fact that they're still on house arrest and the fact that their liberty is still restrained and they're not free to move about the way anybody would while this very prolonged investigation continues, is obviously substantially troubling and frustrating to them.'

Glandian added: 'So even though a few weeks ago, we took steps in the right direction, we're still not all the way there. We're looking forward to the day that the Romanian authorities conclude the investigation and decide that they won't be seeking an indictment in this case.'

She said that if the case does go to trial, it will be difficult for it to a fair trial as opinions are already being formed about the Tate brothers.

Glandian said that the sheer number of people talking about Tate on social media means a trial would be 'jeopardised'.

'As always with these high profile cases, we believe often times the defendant can't get a fair trial because there is such unfortunately a presumption of guilt in these types of cases,' she said.

'There is a lot of misinformation spread prior to the case actually being heard and opinions are formed, and a lot of times again it's not based on the actual evidence

'So I think it is very challenging to have a fair trial under circumstances such as the Tate case here. However, again we are optimistic that the evidence is not going to support an indictment and that it won't come to that.'

Andrew Tate, right, and his brother Tristan arrive outside the Directorate for Investigating Organized Crime and Terrorism (DIICOT), where prosecutors examine electronic equipment confiscated during the investigation in their case, in Bucharest, Romania, on April 10

Tate and Tristan moved into a converted warehouse in Romania in 2017, which they staffed with armed guards.

At their safehouse on the outskirts of Bucharest, the Tate brothers had a video chat studio where several women were found during a police raid in April 2022.

Romanian anti-organized crime agency DIICOT said in a statement after the December arrests that it had identified six victims in the human trafficking case who were allegedly subjected to 'acts of physical violence and mental coercion' and sexually exploited by members of the alleged crime group.

The agency said victims were lured with pretenses of love and later intimidated, placed under surveillance and subjected to other control tactics while being coerced into engaging in pornographic acts for the financial gain of the crime group.

In January, Romanian authorities descended on a compound near Bucharest linked with the Tate brothers and towed away a fleet of luxury cars that included a Rolls-Royce, a Ferrari and a Porsche. They reported seizing assets worth an estimated $3.9 million.

Prosecutors have said that if they can prove the cars' owners gained money through illicit activities such as human trafficking, the assets would be used to cover the expenses of the investigation and to compensate victims. Tate also unsuccessfully appealed the asset seizure.

Tate is also accused of raping a Moldovan woman, who he alleges followed him from London, in March 2022, which he categorically denies.

In January, he told the Bucharest Court of Appeal that the alleged victim moved to Romania with him voluntarily in November 2021.

Tate claimed she filed a rape allegation nearly six months later when he refused to give her money to buy a house and become a TikTok star.

And last week, it emerged that Tate is reportedly facing the possibility of being sued by three British women who claimed he sexually abused them.

The legal team who are putting the allegations together, which it will make clear once they have the money to bring civil action against Tate in the High Court.

The women, now aged in their late 20s and early 30s, reportedly claim that Tate, 36, sexually abused them between 2013 and 2016, as the self-described misogynist ran an online sex firm from Luton, Bedfordshire.

An investigation by British police forces into complaints made by two women at the time resulted in no charges being brought against Tate, who repeatedly denied wrongdoing.

The British women looking to bring the claim against Tate say that they have suffered personal injury and psychiatric harm after alleged violent sexual and physical assaults in the UK.

They are being represented by law firm McCue Jury & Partners.

Tate's views on women, masculinity and entrepreneurship, voiced in podcasts and shared online, became popular in 2022 as they were shared in short clips around social media.

He was ultimately banned from various platforms for misogyny and hate speech.

Tate has repeatedly claimed Romanian prosecutors have no evidence and alleged their case is a 'political' conspiracy designed to silence him.
Queues formed outside Aldi stores today as it brought in new supplies of Prime energy drink weeks after a social media frenzy saw scuffles break out in the aisles and bottles selling for as much as 100.

The drink, by YouTube stars KSI and Logan Paul, returned to branches of the budget supermarket nationwide this morning and is available to buy for .1.99.

Shoppers can choose from six different flavours, including the new Limited Edition Orange and Mango, Meta Moon, Tropical Punch, Blue Raspberry, Lemon and Lime, and Ice Pop.

The announcement comes after shoppers were sent into a frenzy when the drinks were first released, prompting muggings and near-riots in shops.

As the supermarket prepares for what is likely to be another flurry of demand for the products, it warned customers they will only be able to buy one bottle per person of each flavour.

Shoppers queue up at Aldi in Ancoats, Manchester today to buy new flavours of the viral energy drink Prime

Lewis Hird, 24, managed to get his hand on several bottles of the 'hydration' drink

The drink, by YouTube stars KSI and Logan Paul, returned to Aldi branches nationwide today. Pictured: A shopper in Ancoats

So what is actually in the viral Prime drink? The drink launched by influencer boxers Logan Paul and KSI has been marketed as a healthy alternative to many energy drinks. The vast majority of each 500ml bottle is filtered water, mixed with 10 per cent coconut water. The latter is good source of minerals like potassium, magnesium, calcium and sodium important components of in heart, skeletal and muscle health. Branding around Prime boasts it contains no added sugar and zero caffeine. Therefore it isn't really an energy drink. Cans of energy drinks, and in particular their consumption by young people, have been controversial as some can contain more than 80g of sugar and have as much caffeine as three cups of coffee. In comparison, prime only has 2g of sugar per bottle, about 7 per cent of an adult's recommended intake. It instead gets its sweetness from a substances Sucralose and Acesulfame K. These are both artificial sweeteners, a family of low-calorie chemicals used instead of sugar. While there have been some health concerns about these substances, health authorities say they are safe. However, some studies have suggested sweeteners can stimulate appetite or alter the gut microbiome and therefore increase the risk of weight gain and obesity. Advertisement

In another tweet, it revealed it would be stocking six flavours of the drink including lemon lime and meta moon.

The bottles will be sold for 1.99 each, but the supermarket has warned that once they're gone, they're gone.

Following the announcement, excited shoppers responded to suggest they were already preparing for chaos in order to pick up a bottle.

One person wrote: 'This is going to be one stressful pre school run visit to my local store to try and get some.'

Another customer dismissed the idea altogether, claiming: 'I can't face it'.

One customer, who decided not to get caught up in the madness, joked they were 'cancelling [their] big shop' so they didn't have to deal with how busy it would be.

After Prime was first launched in the US last year, it has been estimated that more than 100 million bottles have now been sold worldwide.

The popularity of the energy drink, which is mainly comprised of filtered water and coconut water, is thought to have been fuelled by the enormous social media reach of KSI and Logan Paul.

In February, the launch of a new flavour of the drink sent shoppers wild as people were filmed queueing for hours outside supermarkets to get their hands on bottles.

Shocking footage emerged of a branch of Sainsbury's in Liverpool where shoppers fought over bottles of the orange and mango flavour.

As the entrance opened for the first time, scenes soon descended into carnage as impatient shoppers, including both adults and children, climbed over each other in a desperate bid to reach the bottles.

Furious staff, who had moments earlier warned of a three-bottle limit per person, could be heard urging the customers to 'stop f***ing pushing'.

Another individual could be heard saying, 'guys, it's just a drink'.

Prime, which was created by YouTube stars KSI and Logan Paul, often sells out within minutes of reaching supermarket stores

Children were seen in the crush as staff members tried to prevent the fighting.

And when the drink first arrived in the UK in June last year, scenes of pandemonium broke out.

Demand for the drinks outpaced supply as youngsters tried to emulate their social media heroes.

When Aldi started selling Prime last December, limiting bottles to one per person, customers queued at dawn and were pictured jumping over shelves in the frenzy to get their hands on it.

Wakefield Wines, an off-licence in Wakefield, West Yorkshire, went viral after reportedly selling bottles for 100 each, while a 12-pack was advertised for 50,000 on auction site eBay, together fuelling the demand further.

But the craze acquired a sinister edge when a 17-year-old in Kent was arrested for stealing a case, and reports emerged of children being bullied into handing over their drinks.

One ten-year-old was also reportedly punched in the face when he refused to give his drink to a group of teenagers in the park.
Sir Keir Starmer today risked embarrassment with an ill-considered joke about how dummies vote for Labour.

On a visit to a simulated hospital ward at the University of York, Sir Keir quipped that a medical dummy lying on a bed had pledged their support for his party.

After shadow health secretary Wes Streeting asked students whether the stricken patient had a postal vote, Sir Keir quipped: '"You got my vote", I think I heard him say.'

The Labour leader and Mr Streeting made the visit to the University of York's Department of Health Sciences as they continued their party's campaigning ahead of next month's local elections.

It came as new opinion polls showed Labour's lead over the Conservatives has continued to slip.

On a visit to a simulated hospital ward at the University of York, Sir Keir Starmer quipped that a medical dummy lying on a bed had pledged their support for his party

Sir Keir and shadow health secretary Wes Streeting visited the University of York's Department of Health Sciences as they continued Labour's campaigning ahead of local elections

A Redfield & Wilton Strategies survey revealed Labour's lead over the Tories has been cut to 12 points.

This is the narrowest lead for Sir Keir's party since Rishi Sunak became Prime Minister in October last year.

A Deltapoll survey put Labour's lead at 14 points, which is a seven-point narrowing since their last poll two weeks ago.

Local elections on 4 May are set to be Mr Sunak's biggest electoral test since he became PM, with the Tories predicted to be on course for a miserable night.

Conservative chairman Greg Hands had been due to give a briefing to his fellow Cabinet ministers this morning about the party's prospects.

At the weekend, Mr Hands admitted the Tories are set to lose more than 1,000 seats in councils across England.

'The independent expectations are that the Conservatives will lose more than 1,000 seats and that Labour need to make big gains,' he told Sky News.

A Redfield & Wilton Strategies survey revealed Labour's lead over the Conservatives has been cut to 12 points

A Deltapoll survey put Labour's lead at 14 points, which is a seven-point narrowing since their last poll two weeks ago

Labour's lead over the Tories has continued to narrow little more than two weeks before the local elections

Rishi Sunak's net approval rating nudged up one point from last week's poll, to -7 per cent. This is the highest net approval rating he has held since 3 January

The Redfield & Wilton poll showed Labour were backed by 44 per cent of voters, while the Tories had increased two percentage points from last week's survey to 32 per cent.

In their previous poll a week ago, Redfield & Wilton found Labour were ahead by 14 percentage points.

Almost one-third (31 per cent) of those asked in this week's poll believed a Labour majority would be the most likely outcome if a general election were held in the next six months.

This was the lowest number who said they expected this outcome since 25 September last year, when Liz Truss was PM.

Around one in ten (11 per cent) said they expected a Labour-led minority government, while 19 per cent expected a Tory majority and 14 per cent expected a Conservative-led minority government.

This week's poll also showed Mr Sunak had clawed back some ground against Sir Keir when voters were asked who would be the better PM

Mr Sunak's net approval rating nudged up one point from last week's poll, to -7 per cent.

This is the highest net approval rating he has held since 3 January, which was just before he unveiled his five pledges on the economy, the NHS and the Channel migrant crisis.

Sir Keir's net approval rating stood at 6 per cent, down two points from the previous Redfield & Wilton poll a week ago.

This week's poll showed Mr Sunak had clawed back some ground against Sir Keir when voters were asked who would be the better PM.

The Tory leader was backed by 36 per cent (up one point) compared to 37 per cent who supported the Labour leader (down two points).

Redfield & Wilton surveyed 2,000 British voters online on 16 April.
Once bustling Covid-19 testing clinics that are now deserted will be closed by the NSW Premier after Daily Mail Australia revealed the staggering waste of resources.

'The time has come to close down those temporary PCR testing facilities,' Premier Chris Minns said on Tuesday.

But the announcement was yet to filter through to the clinics by Tuesday afternoon, with a sign outside a Merrylands facility reading: 'Free COVID testing will remain open in 2023'.

A total of 164 COVID-19 PCR test clinics are still operating across NSW, including 52 drive-in only clinics, and 64 walk-in facilities.

'They're temporary facilities. They're not meant to be permanent,' the premier said.

'We travelled past one on the way to come to this press conference in Fairfield and it was empty.'

Premier Chris Minns said 'the time has come to close down those temporary PCR testing facilities'

Workers at Histopath Pathology drive-through clinic in Merrylands, Sydney amuse themselves waiting for patients to arrive

Bored staff at the Maroubra clinic, in Sydney's east, fiddle with their phones, call friends, and put their feet up - grateful to have something to do when a patient arrives

Mr Minns said he was committed to making sure 'that public money has been protected.'

He admitted 'a lot of money' was currently being spent on maintaining the testing centres, which were largely no longer required as pandemic-related restrictions were wound back, he said.

Health Minister Ryan Park will initiate steps to close the pop-up clinics in the next 24 hours - though he has not revealed exactly how much of taxpayer money has been spent keeping them open.

New NSW Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said earlier on Tuesday the government was reviewing the clinics after Daily Mail Australia revealed fewer than 100 people a day used them.

Gone are the huge queues and maddening waits of two years ago.

Instead, bored staff fiddle with their phones and put their feet up, waiting patiently for someone - anyone - to turn up.

A once-bustling Covid drive-through testing clinic in Maroubra is now empty with less than 100 showing up a day

A health worker sits waiting for someone to arrive for testing in Brighton-Le-Sands, Sydney

A patient rolls up for a PCR test, finally giving the worker something to do

At the height of the outbreak, the specialist drive-through and walk-in PCR test sites had queues hours long - now anything more than 100 people would be a busy day.

Huge white shelters are still planted in car parks as cars trickle through, rarely encountering a delay before a medical worker walks up.

The rest of the time, two or three bored staff watch their phones or call friends - grateful to have something to do when a patient arrives.

Mr Mookhey said he drove past the testing site Maroubra, in Sydney's eastern suburbs, and 'there was no one there'.

Staff at that clinic told Daily Mail Australia they usually had 50 to 100 show up a day during the 7am to 4pm opening hours, with about 95 on Wednesday.

Unlike during the Omicron outbreak, when there was no lockdown but plenty of cases, there was no pre- and post-work rush.

'They just come one at a time, or sometimes a few - it's really random. There's fewer today, maybe 50-something so far,' one said at lunch on Thursday.

The turn up today is a far cry from the height of the pandemic when there were hours long waits

Very few tests were positive and there was no sign of the clinics being wound up any time soon.

'It's all up to the government, we don't really know,' they said.

Mr Mookhey said the government was looking into it and NSW Health advised demand was obviously not as strong as it once was.

'We're putting them through some strict scrutiny now, we're getting the health advice,' he said on 2GB radio on Tuesday.

'We have to make sure that every dollar the value is spending is getting value.'

The treasurer noted the government needed to make savings to fix an almost $80 billion budget hole, and more nurses were needed in hospitals.

The Merrylands clinic is completely empty with only the occasional trickle of people arriving for testing

Staff at Covid test clinics had no idea how long they would continue operating

Another clinic in southern Sydney had four cars arrive in the space of half an hour, with a worker saying there was usually less than 100 a day.

'It's not many compared to what it used to be,' staff said, having conducted 40 to 50 tests by early Thursday afternoon.

NSW Health stopped counting tests in its weekly updates after February 3, when there were 41,747 combined PCR and rapid tests over the previous week.

How many were conducted at testing sites is not known and NSW Health failed to provide the figure when asked by Daily Mail Australia.

Senior ministerial staffers are understood to be surprised so many of the clinics are still operating more than three years after the pandemic began.

The previous government shut down many of them last October, but left the current sites operating despite dwindling use.

At the height of the outbreak, the specialist drive-through and walk-in PCR test sites had queues hours long. Now they are white elephants

So few people come to this test site in Bankstown, western Sydney, that there are no staff at the front, having all retreated inside

4Cyte drive-through clinic in North Ryde, in Sydney's north, has nothing but empty chairs

A well-placed source in the previous government said there was no reason to have the clinics open anymore and patients could get a PCR test at a GP or hospital.

'We need the nurses elsewhere and they are costing us a fortune,' they said.

The source said the clinics were only kept open because the Coalition feared political backlash from sections of the population ahead of the March 25 election.

Operation of the clinics is largely outsourced to private companies, but the staff are spending much of their day idle during a serious nursing shortage.

There is a forecast shortfall of 20,000 to 40,000 nursing positions by 2025 that the new government hopes it can fix with higher pay and a huge recruiting drive.
A tradie thought he was going to die after a battery pack exploded in his pocket - as as he issues a desperate warning that 'it could happen to anyone'.

Matthew, an aircon installer from Melbourne, was left with horrific injuries following the explosion at work two weeks ago while climbing a ladder with his phone being charged by a power bank in his pocket.

'(I thought) my whole body is going to catch on fire and then I'm just going to burn alive,' he told A Current Affair's Sam Cucchiara.

'I thought that I was definitely going to die.'

Matthew has been left with life-changing injuries after the blast and requires further surgery

Matthew, who is being treated at the Helen Macpherson Smith Burns Unit in the The Alfred hospital in Melbourne, described the excruciating pain he experienced.

'It was like someone holding a cast iron kettle straight from the stove and placing it directly on your knee for a long time,' he told the program.

'All of a sudden I just hear a hissing sound. I don't know what's happening but I step off the ladder and I look down and see fire shooting up at my face.'

'I'm not really afraid of death but I just didn't want to die at that moment - alone in a warehouse at night. Like imagine I died in that location - no one would find my body until the next day.'

He could not call an ambulance but somehow managed to drive himself to a restaurant where he called a cab.

'The first taxi cancelled. I called an Uber and the driver refused to let me get in his car,' he said.

Thankfully, the third taxi took him to the hospital.

The tradie faces a long road to recovery after having skin grafted from his right leg to cover his wounds on his left leg, as well as his left hand, to heal his third degree burns.

'I just want people to know it could happen to them,' warned Matthew.

The tradie warned: 'I just want people to know it could happen to them'

He bought the power bank from Office Works, which is owned by Comsol.

On the company's website there are five power banks that have been recalled due to safety fears. It is unclear whether Matthew was using one that has been recalled.

Daily Mail Australia approached Comsol for comment.

The company told A Current Affair they had recalled certain models in 2021 as soon as they became aware of a possible risk of injury.

Lithium-ion batteries, often used in phones, power banks, e-scooters and e-bikes, store a huge amount of energy in a very small space.

This means that they are much more powerful compared to other types of batteries.

A blaze or explosion can also occur if there a battery is damaged, overheated or overcharged.

Tony Carbon, a lawyer representing Matthew, told the program he has four cases going to court involving iPhones catching on fire when clients had them on their person.

'We've several cases including a lady whose house burned down because of her phone that caught on fire,' he said.

Comsol, which owns Office Works where Matthew bought his battery pack, has five power banks listed on its website that have been recalled due to safety fears. It is unclear whether Matthew was using one that has been recalled

It comes as a fire chief has warned members of the public to be vigilant with lithium-ion batteries.

'They are quite reactive and explosive when those fires take hold. This is an emerging trend - it isn't going away,' said Michelle Young, deputy commissioner from Fire Rescue Victoria.

Ms Young encouraged people not to try not to damage them or put them on charge under something that could catch fire.

'It's not that these products are unsafe - it's just how we make them safer and how we live with this technology,' she said.

There has been a recent spate of fires across Sydney caused by e-bike batteries.

On Friday, the fire service had to be called to a property in the norther suburb of Balgowlah after a battery exploded, throwing debris three metres across the living room in which it had been charging.

Last month, a two-storey home in Sydney's south was razed to the ground after an e-bike battery burst into flames.

A woman was forced to escape the home by jumping from a second floor balcony as crews battled the blaze which spread from the garage to the ground floor.

Neighbours claim the property belongs to an electric scooter e-bike repairman who had been storing multiple batteries in his garage that had fuelled the flames.

Last year, a young father-to-be died in an e-scooter battery fire.

Blake Whell, 22, and his partner Tomeka Willis, 20, were in a caravan on a property in Logan Central, Queensland, when a charging e-scooter battery caught fire in March 2022.

Willis, who was pregnant at the time, sustained burns to more than 80 per cent of her body, while Whell died from his injuries.
A pizza delivery worker who impregnated a 15-year-old child has appealed his prison sentence on the grounds it was too harsh because of the victim's age, a court heard.

Nathaniel Roberts, 27, from Morwell, Victoria, was sentenced to five-and-a-half years jail with a non-parole period of three years in the County Court last year after he pleaded guilty to four counts of sexual penetration of a child under the age of 16.

Roberts was 24 at the time of the offending, which occurred in August 2020, and the victim, who cannot be identified, was 15.

Barrister Joe Connolly, for Roberts, told the Court of Appeal on Tuesday that 'in so far as a child can give consent, she did', and said the victim had shown 'more than acquiescence' in the pair's sexual relationship.

Nathaniel Roberts, pictured, was jailed for a minimum of three years after he had sex with and impregnated a 15-year-old

He told Justices Karin Emerton and Terence Forrest that there had been an absence of grooming, no force, nor any 'overbearing' of will involved in the pair's sexual relationship, which he said was 'relatively short'.

Robyn Harper, for the Crown, said the maximum penalty Roberts faced was 15 years, and the sentence handed down was 33 per cent of the maximum.

Ms Harper said the aggravating factor in the offending was Roberts' ejaculation inside the victim, which had caused her pregnancy.

She said the crime was 'particularly serious,' and told the court that the sentence imposed was 'clearly not outside the range'.

'The consequences were significant,' Ms Harper said.

Roberts was 24 at the time of the offending, which occurred in August 2020, and the victim, who cannot be identified, was 15 (stock image)

According to a written prosecution summary released by the County Court, Edwards and the victim met at a house in Traralgon in August 2020, and a sexual relationship between the pair began shortly after.

The summary said Roberts had been told by the victim, who returned to his house on multiple occasions to stay with him after their first meeting, that she was only 15, and said the pair had discussed the age difference a number of times.

'What happens if, like, people start finding out about all this shit,' Roberts says in the summary, as well as expressing a concern about people 'going to the cops' because she was not 16.

In late September that year the victim told her mother that she was afraid she might be pregnant, which was confirmed in early October, and also told her mother that the father was around 25 years old.

After initially advising the victim that he wanted her to have an abortion but maintaining he would support her, Roberts eventually ended the relationship with the victim.

Pizza delivery worker Nathaniel Roberts, who impregnated a 15-year-old child, has appealed his prison sentence on the grounds it was too harsh because of the victim's age. The County Court of Victoria is pictured

In his sentencing of Roberts last year, County Court Judge Michael McInerney said the sexual intercourse was 'willing in the sense the victim was a willing participant'.

But Judge McInerney said the legislation was designed to protect young children, and at law there could be no consent.

He said the restriction of having a child at a young age, which the victim described in her victim impact statement, as 'exactly the restrictions which form the basis' for parliament passing the legislation.

Justices Emerton and Forrest reserved their decision.
AEVIS VICTORIA SA / Key word(s): AGMEGM

AEVIS VICTORIA SA  Ordinary General Meeting of Shareholders on 9 May 2023



18-Apr-2023 / 07:00 CET/CEST

Release of an ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 LR

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.





Ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 LR

Fribourg, 18 April 2023

AEVIS VICTORIA SA  Ordinary General Meeting of Shareholders on 9 May 2023

Ordinary distribution of CHF 0.45 per share and extraordinary distribution of CHF 0.30 per share

AEVIS VICTORIA SA (AEVIS) will hold its Ordinary General Meeting for the financial year 2022 on Tuesday, 9 May 2023, at 14:00. The General Meeting will be held by electronic means (virtual General Meeting).

At the statutory level (holding, non-consolidated) revenues were CHF 82.9 million, mainly from dividend payments received from participations and the gain on the sale of the minority participation Medgate. The statutory profit amounted to CHF 67.4 million. The Board of Directors will thus propose to the Annual General Meeting an ordinary distribution of CHF 0.45 per share and an extraordinary distribution of CHF 0.30 per share. The Board thus confirms the companys dividend policy and its willingness to share the value created by the company with its shareholders.

If approved, the ordinary dividend distribution of CHF 0.45 per share will be paid on 3 July 2023 (ex-date 29 June 2023). The extraordinary dividend distribution of CHF 0.30 per share will be paid on 2 October 2023 (ex-date 28 September 2023).

Among other regular agenda items of the General Meeting, the shareholders will be asked to approve the individual re-election of Christian Wenger (as Member and Chairman), Raymond Loretan, Antoine Hubert, Michel Reybier, Antoine Kohler and Dr Cedric A. George for a term of one year until the next ordinary General Meeting. The Board of Directors also proposes to re-elect Cedric A. George and Antoine Kohler as Members of the Nomination and Remuneration Committee, Jacques-Daniel Noverraz as independent Proxy and Berney Associes Audit SA as auditor for the financial year 2023.

The shareholders will also vote on amendments to the Articles of Association in connection with the Swiss Corporate Law Reform, in particular on the share-capital, the share register, the duty to make an offer, the corporate bodies and allocation of profit, the mandates outside the company and the publications.

The General Meeting will finally be called to approve the replacement of the authorized capital by the introduction of a capital band between CHF 42264'730 (lower limit) and CHF 126'794'190 (upper limit). The Board of Directors will hence be authorized to increase or reduce the share capital within the capital band for a period of five years. The shareholders will also vote the conditional capital increase from CHF 34'210'000 to CHF 38'979'730 for convertible loans.

The complete Agenda for the Ordinary General Meeting for the year 2022 (in French) can be downloaded via the following link: www.aevis.com/_media/2023/04/230418_invitation_ago.pdf

The text with the proposed Amendments to the Articles of Associations can be downloaded via the following link: www.aevis.com/_media/2023/04/230418_revision_statuts.pdf

For further information:

AEVIS VICTORIA SA Media and Investor Relations: c/o Dynamics Group, Zurich

Philippe R. Blangey, prb@dynamicsgroup.ch, +41 (0) 43 268 32 35 or +41 (0) 79 785 46 32

Severine Van der Schueren, svanderschueren@aevis.com, +41 (0) 79 635 04 10

AEVIS VICTORIA SA - Investing for a better life

AEVIS VICTORIA SA invests in healthcare, hospitality & lifestyle and infrastructure. AEVISs main shareholdings are Swiss Medical Network SA (90%, directly and indirectly), the only Swiss private network of hospitals present in the country's three main language regions, Victoria-Jungfrau AG, a luxury hotel group managing ten luxury hotels in Switzerland and abroad, Infracore SA (30%, directly and indirectly), a real estate company dedicated to healthcare-related infrastructure, Swiss Hotel Properties SA, a hospitality real estate division, and NESCENS SA, a brand dedicated to better aging. AEVIS is listed on the Swiss Reporting Standard of the SIX Swiss Exchange (AEVS.SW). www.aevis.com.
Jennifer Aniston joined other celebrities who have demanded justice for Ralph Yarl, the innocent black teenager who was shot twice when he accidentally rang the wrong doorbell - as his GoFundMe page soared past $2.5million raised for Yarl.

Ralph Yarl, 16, was shot outside of a house in Kansas City, Missouri, just a block away from the property his siblings were waiting to be picked up from, on April 13.

He reportedly pulled into the driveway of the home at 10pm, rang the doorbell, and was immediately shot twice, but managed to run next door to a neighbor for help.

Yarl was released from hospital four days after he was shot and is said to be recovering at home with his mother, who is a nurse.

Jennifer Aniston was the latest celebrity to demand justice for the teenager and explained what happened to the 16-year-old in a series of Instagram Stories - where posts are only visible for 24 hours - on Monday.

Ralph Yarl, 16, was shot twice in the head by a white man after he went to the wrong house in Kansas City while trying to pick up younger siblings

Andrew Lester (pictured), 85, is facing two felony charges and a warrant has been issued for his arrest , Clay County prosecutor Zachary Thompson revealed yesterday

Jennifer Aniston is the latest celebrity to demand justice for the teenager and explained what happened to him in a serious of Instagram Stories. She also posted the prosecutor's contact address and said: 'Use the contact information below to demand Prosecutor Zachary Thompson make an immediate arrest and bring the appropriate charges'

A GoFundMe fundraiser set up by Yarl's aunt has raised more than $2.7million for the teenager just one day after it was created (this is as of Tuesday afternoon)

Aniston also posted the prosecutor's contact address and said: 'Use the contact information below to demand Prosecutor Zachary Thompson make an immediate arrest and bring the appropriate charges.'

An arrest warrant has been issued since, as Clay County prosecutor Zachary Thompson announced later on Monday.

He said that the homeowner, identified as Andrew Lester, had been charged with one count of felony assault in the first degree and one count of armed criminal action, also a felony.

However, Lester was not yet in police custody, Thompson said on Monday evening.

A GoFundMe fundraiser set up by Yarl's aunt has raised more than $2.7million - by Tuesday afternoon - for the teenager just one day after it was created.

Halle Berry was also among the public figures fighting for justice. She said on Twitter two days ago: 'His name is #RalphYarl and I'm sick and tired of this feeling...

'My heart completely broke when I learned this precious 16-year-old, who accidentally rang the door of the wrong address in an attempt to pick up his siblings, was shot in the head by a man who didn't want him on his property.

'This innocent child is now fighting for his life. This could be your child. This should NOT happen.'

Model Naomi Campbell also posted a picture of Yarl, saying: 'The white owner of the house shot this black child in the head. He shot him again as Ralph bled out. The shooter is free. No charges. This is America.'

Gwyneth Paltrow then posted Campbell's words alongside a picture of Yarl in her Instagram Story.

Justin Timberlake also took to Twitter to share his outrage and wrote: 'The man is free and the 16-year-old is fighting for his life in the hospital. This can't be it.'

A talented bass clarinet player, Ralph also leads a section of his school's marching band and plays multiple instruments in the Northland Symphony Youth Orchestra

Ralph was hospitalised and is still recovering from his injuries after being shot in the head

Actresses Viola Davis and Halle Berry are calling for justice for the academically gifted teenager and is putting pressure on Kansas City Prosecutor Zachary Thompson to bring 'appropriate charges'

Ralph's family have labeled his shooting a hate crime

Viola Davis added a post on Instagram, one with the caption: '#JusticeForRalphYarl' and another saying: 'Ralph is a junior in high school. He loves music and plays the bass clarinet.

'He is loved by his family and community and has a bright bright future.

'He didn't deserve what happened to him. We won't stand for it. We are coming for justice.'

Chrissy Teigen and actress Amy Schumer also shared Yarl's story on their social media channels across Twitter and Instagram as they rallied behind his family in their call for justice.

The Good Samaritan who rushed to help 16-year-old Yarl has revealed today what awful condition the boy was in when he found him.

Neighbour Jason Lynch, 42, said he was ready to go to bed after a shower when heard shouting outside his home and heard somebody screaming: 'Help, help, I've been shot!'

He went over to his kitchen window and saw Yarl banging on the door of a nearby home before seeing him lying down on the ground, bloody and motionless.

'I thought he was dead,' Lynch admitted. 'He didn't deserve to get shot.'

The father of three sprung into action, running outside and hopping a fence before racing across the street to meet Yarl.

Andrew Lester, 85, is facing two felony charges and a warrant has been issued for his arrest, Clay County prosecutor Zachary Thompson revealed yesterday.

The prosecutor confirmed that there was indeed a racial factor in the ordeal - after the teenage musical scholar was shot twice, in the head and arm, after ringing the wrong doorbell when he went to pick up his younger brothers.

'I can tell you there was a racial component to the case,' said Thompson.

Lester's bond is set at $200,000. If convicted, Lester could face life in prison for the assault charge, and 3 to 15 years for armed criminal action.

He is accused of shooting scholar and musician Yarl twice through glass at the front of the house, just a block away from the property his younger twin brothers were waiting to be picked up.

Ralph, center, was said to be trying to pick up his younger siblings from a friend's house but went to the wrong address

Hundreds gathered outsider the home of the alleged gunman to demand justice

Jason Lynch (pictured), 42, said he was ready to go to bed after a shower when heard shouting outside his home and heard somebody screaming: 'Help, help, I've been shot!' The voice turned out to be 16-year-old shooting victim Ralph Yarl

He pulled into the driveway of the home around 10pm on April 13, rang the doorbell, and was immediately shot in the head by the homeowner.

He survived, and was released from hospital after only four days, in what family attorney Ben Crump said was a miracle.

'He continues to improve. He's responsive and he's making good progress,' said his father, Paul.

'It was appropriate for the prosecutor to charge him and the only tragedy was that it took so long for them to charge him,' Crump said.

'I think it is appropriate, you can't send a message to society that it's okay to shoot black people in the head just for ringing your doorbell.'

President Joe Biden rang the Yarl family on Monday, and invited them to the White House when Ralph is well enough.
White homeowner Andrew Lester, 85, shot black teenager Ralph Yarl after he mistakenly rang the doorbell at Lester's home while going to collect his young siblings from a friend's house.

The Kansas City resident is accused of shooting scholar and musician Yarl twice through glass at the front of the house, just a block away from the property where the 16-year-old's younger twin brothers were waiting to be picked up.

Lester - a retired aircraft mechanic - has now been charged with first-degree assault for shooting Yarl, and Clay County prosecutor Zachary Thompson revealed on Monday April 17 that there was a racial factor in the attack.

Lester was arrested soon after the shooting on Thursday April 13 and reportedly held for just two hours before being released.

A warrant was issued for his arrest, and he later handed himself in. He was released again on April 18 on a $200,000 bail. He is currently facing two felony charges and is due in court on April 19. Here, MailOnline looks at what we know so far...

Andrew Lester, 85, has been charged with two felony counts over the April 13 shooting of Ralph Yarl, which Kansas City prosecutors said was racially motivated

Ralph Yarl, 16, was shot twice after ringing the door bell at Andrew Lester's home in Kansas City

Who is Andrew Lester?

Andrew D. Lester is an 85-year-old homeowner and retired aircraft mechanic from Kansas City, Missouri.

On Monday, April 17, it was revealed that he shot black teenager Ralph Yarl after the 16-year-old rang the doorbell at Lester's property by mistake.

Details about him are still scant, but after he was taken into custody and placed on 24-hour hold a mugshot of the elderly man was released by cops.

READ MORE: Mother of black Missouri shooting victim, 16, shot by white homeowner, 84, says he is 'replaying the situation over and over' A talented bass clarinet player, Ralph leads a section of his school's marching band and plays multiple instruments in the Northland Symphony Youth Orchestra Advertisement

His residence in the northern part of Kansas city has since been pictured, showing it was plastered with signs warning trespassers and unwelcomed visitors.

The doorbell had a small 'no solicitors' sign on top while another sign claimed the property was 'protected by surveillance cameras.'

It is unclear if Ralph noticed the signs when ringing the doorbell or pulling up on the driveway at around 10pm on Thursday April 13.

Lester shot Ralph though the glass door of his property immediately after. Investigators recovered a firearm from the scene.

What are the charges against Andrew Lester?

Lester has been charged with first-degree assault for shooting Yarl and is facing two felony charges. A warrant was been issued for his arrest.

Lester's bond is set at $200,000. If convicted, Lester could face life in prison for the assault charge, and 3 to 15 years for armed criminal action.

Why is Andrew Lester not charged with attempted murder?

The prosecutor in the case said that rather than being charged with attempted murder, Lester has been charged with 'A felony' which is the highest level of offence in the state of Missouri.

It carries with it 10 to 30 years or life imprisonment.

The two felony counts against Lester are assault in the first degree and armed criminal action.

When asked whether Lester could also face hate crime charges, the prosecutor explained that in Missouri this is a lower level of felony, meaning to press such a charge could result in double jeopardy.

The house is Kansas City, Missouri had a 'no solicitors' sign on top of the doorbell which Ralph mistakenly rang

What happened between Andrew Lester and Ralph Yarl?

According to Yarl's family, the teenager was on his way to pick up his younger brothers who were at a friend's house, but drove to the wrong address, mistaking 115th Street for 115th Terrace.

Yarl pulled into the driveway of Lester's home around 10pm on April 13, rang the doorbell, and was shot in the head by Lester.

The teenager was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries, authorities said, while the homeowner was taken into custody.

He survived, and was released from hospital after only four days, in what family attorney Ben Crump said was a miracle.

Lester's grandson has since spoken out, saying that the shooting 'should never have happened,' revealing that even he would get lost on the same streets.

Was race a factor in the shooting of black teen Ralph Yarl?

The shooting outraged many in Kansas City and across the country. Civic and political leaders including President Joe Biden demanded justice.

Biden also invited Yarl to the White House.

The prosecutor confirmed that there was indeed a racial factor in the ordeal - after the teenage musical scholar was shot twice, in the head and arm, after ringing the wrong doorbell when he went to pick up his younger brothers.

Zachary Thompson said: 'As the prosecutor for Clay County, I can tell you that there was a racial component to the caseI don't want to comment on specifics of the case to protect its integrity.'

Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves also acknowledged the 'racial components' at play in the case.

However, prosecuting Attorney Alexander Higginbotham clarified in an email to The Associated Press on Tuesday that "there is not a racial element to the legal charges that were filed."

Still, some - including lawyers for Yarl's family - pressed the racial dimension of the case. Missouri NAACP President Nimrod Chapel Jr. said in a statement that a Black suspect would have been been in jail from the start.

The property also had a sign claiming it was 'protected by surveillance cameras'

Ralph Yarl, 16, was shot twice in the head by a white man after he approached the wrong house by mistake when going to collect his siblings

A witness added that they heard 'two or three gunshots' from Lester's home, and heard Yarl screaming that he had been shot

What is the status of the investigation?

Lester was charged with first-degree assault Monday and turned himself in Tuesday.

He was later released on a $200,000 bail.

On his two felony charges, Lester faces a maximum punishment of life in prison and three to 15 years for the alleged gun crime.

Kansas City Police worked over the weekend following the April 13 shooting to build a solid case for prosecutors, Graves said.

Some civil rights leaders have called for a hate crime charge, but Zachary Thompson, Clay County prosecuting attorney, said first-degree assault is a higher-level crime with a longer sentence - up to life in prison.

Lester also was charged with armed criminal action, which has a penalty range of three to 15 years. Lester was to be arraigned Wednesday afternoon. An attorney was not yet listed for him.

What is Missouri's Stand Your Ground law?

Legal experts believe Lester's lawyers will claim self-defense under Missouri's 'stand your ground' law, which allows for the use of deadly force if a person fears for his or her life. Missouri is one of roughly 30 states with such statutes.

Authorities are also understood to be considering whether Lester was protected by the law, which states that a person who reasonably believes they are defending life or property does not have to retreat before taking violent action.

Robert Spitzer, a professor emeritus of political science at the State University of New York, Cortland, whose research focuses on gun policy and politics, said the Missouri law provides 'wide latitude for people to use lethal force.'

St. Louis defense attorney Nina McDonnell agreed. She said prosecutors have a strong case but the 'stand your ground' defense is a 'huge hurdle' to overcome.

Which celebrities have joined in calls for justice for Ralph Yarl?

There has been an outpouring of support from around the world for Ralph and his family, including from celebrities like Halle Berry, Gwyneth Paltrow, Chrissy Teigen and Viola Davis.

Actress Ms Berry shared Ralph's image on Twitter and urged her followers to contact the local prosecutor to urge him to bring charges against the homeowner, which has now happened.

'His name is #RalphYarl and I'm sick and tired of this feelingmy heart completely broke when I learned this precious 16-year-old, who accidentally rang the door of the wrong address in an attempt to pick up his siblings, was shot in the head by a man who didn't want him on his property.

'This innocent child is now fighting for his life,' she wrote.

Viola Davis also took to Instagram to demand action, writing 'ALL HANDS ON DECK!!' and directing people to the posts of civil rights attorneys Ben Crump and Lee Merritt.

His name is #RalphYarl and Im sick and tired of this feelingmy heart completely broke when I learned this precious 16-year-old, who accidentally rang the door of the wrong address in an attempt to pick up his siblings, was shot in the head (1/3) pic.twitter.com/4VaZo7EFVE  Halle Berry (@halleberry) April 17, 2023

A GoFundMe fundraiser set up by Yarl's aunt has raised more than $2.7million for the teenager just one day after it was created

And Gwyneth Paltrow also joined her fellow actors in condemning the shooting.

She wrote on Instagram: '#RalphYarl accidentally rang the doorbell of the wrong house in KCMO. He was trying to pick his younger siblings. The white owner of the hours shot this Black child in the head. He shot him again as Ralph bled out. The shooter is free. No charges. This is America.'

President Joe Biden rang the Yarl family on Monday, and invited them to the White House when Ralph is well enough.

More than $2.6million has been raised by a GoFundMe account to help Ralph and his family with the medical bills.
A homeless man caught stealing 300 worth of meat from Marks and Spencer's was killed with a 'knockout blow' from a security guard, a court has heard.

Jason Page was punched in the head outside a BP garage in Lower Earley, Reading, jurors were told.

The 52-year-old later died in hospital after suffering a bleed to the brain.

M&S security guard, Sabeur Trabelsi, 44, who was working his last day at the store, appeared at Reading Crown Court on Tuesday to deny a charge of manslaughter.

A prosecutor said that Trabelsi had lied to police and his co-workers about what had happened, claiming the victim was so drunk that he lost his balance and fell over.

The jury heard that the security guard, along with the store's manager Elliot Cripps, chased the man and his accomplice, Oswold Walker, out of the store.

Jason Page, 52, died after he was punched in the head outside a BP garage in Lower Earley, Reading, jurors at Reading Crown Court were told today

M&S security guard, Sabeur Trabelsi, 44, (pictured) who was working his last day at the store, appeared at Reading Crown Court on Tuesday to deny a charge of manslaughter

The court heard defendant Sabeur Trabelsi allegedly lied to police and his co-workers about what had happened, claiming the victim was so drunk that he lost his balance and fell over outside the petrol station (pictured)

Mr Page and Mr Walker were seen on CCTV footage walking into the M&S shop on March on March 31 2021, 30 minutes before the store was set to shut.

The victim was said to have had a 'noticeable bulge' around his stomach which transpired to be a plastic bag.

He then 'whipped out' the bag for Mr Walker to stuff it full of expensive meat.

The court heard that the pair were only in the shop for under the minute, with Mr Walker grabbing a box of Moretti beer on their way out.

Opening the trial, Prosecutor Charles Ward Jackson, said the shop had become victim to a number of thefts, which led them to them hiring a security guard.

He said: 'In the later part of 2020 the M&S store had suffered a spate of frequent high value theft by shoplifters.

'One of the items frequently stolen was meat. You may have seen that they are now being locked up in little containers in stores.

'As a result, the shop in December 2020 started to hire security.'

The prosecutor told jurors that unlike police officers, security officers held much less power and are only able to detain someone under citizens arrest until the police arrive - and they would need a reasonable excuse to do so.

A prosecutor said that Trabelsi (pictured) had lied to police and his co-workers about what had happened, claiming the victim was so drunk that he lost his balance and fell over

Trabelsi had been working his last day as a security guard at the M&S store on Chalfont Way

Police officers at the scene on March 31 2021 after Mr Page was taken away to hospital

Security guards, he said, could use reasonable force to detain somebody and reasonable force in self-defence.

The prosecutor said that Trabelsi chased after the both men - followed by Cripps.

Cripps grabbed the box of Moretti beer from Mr Walker, who then ran away in a different direction.

The prosecutor said that meanwhile Cripps and Trabelsi carried on chasing Mr Page through the retail park towards the nearby BP garage on Chalfont Way, in an attempt to grab back the bag of meat.

He said that Trabelsi managed to catch up with Mr Page and detained him as Cripps ran up behind.

Mr Page was 'wrestled to the ground' as Cripps grabbed the bag of meat from him, the Reading Chronicle reports.

When Mr Page got back on his feet, Trabelsi delivered a 'knockout blow', causing him to fall backwards and crash onto the pavement, the jury heard.

Mr Ward-Jackson described what happened in the moments after, adding: 'From CCTV, we see Mr Page lying motionless and Mr Trabelsi and Mr Cripps walking away back to M&S. After a couple of seconds, they go back and check on him.

'They lean over him. It must have been obvious to them that he had suffered a serious head injury. Having realised that Mr Page was injured Cripps dialled 999.'

Cripps and Trabelsi both allegedly lied to the phone operator about what happened.

After the alleged attack Mr Page initially stood up and walked onto the ambulance to be checked over but he soon started bleeding from his nose.

He was rushed to intensive care in hospital where he died the following day from a brain injury.

A post-mortem examination found a number of injuries, including a fracture to his skull, right temple and nose.

The cause of his death was listed as a head injury. Toxicology reports showed a significant amount of alcohol in his blood, the jury heard.

Following the incident, Cripps went back to M&S and told staff that Trabelsi had 'b****-slapped' Mr Page and then punched him again.

However, Cripps, from Ashbourne Crescent, Taunton, Somerset, who is charged with perverting the course of justice, told the 999 phone operator that Mr Page simply fell backwards.

Trabelsi, from Kings Road, Reading, Berkshire, has also been charged with perverting the course of justice after changing his story several times.

He initially told his boss over WhatsApp that Mr Page had tripped backwards and hit his head.

He then told somebody at work the following day that there had been a 'tussle'.

He said both he and Mr Page were fighting over the bag. He said when he decided to let go, Mr Page fell backwards from the force.

Following his arrest, he told police: 'He lost his balance because he was drunk.' When he was arrested for a second time, officers showed him CCTV of the blow and he claimed it was a 'slap' and not a punch.

The trial continues.
California police have seized the phone of a Polish woman who had claimed to be the missing Madeleine McCann as part of a global probe into her case.

The probe comes after it has emerged that the woman, Julia Wendell, 21, is planning a second DNA test after the first one proved she is not the missing British toddler who vanished while on a family holiday in Portugal in 2007.

The Orange County Sheriff's Department reportedly contacted police in the Polish city of Wroclaw to tell them they had seized a phone believed to be Wendell's, who is now living in California after allegedly receiving death threats in Poland, according to RadarOnline.

While the Sheriff's Department confirmed that they seized the phone, they decline to provide more details about the investigation.

The phone was reportedly handed over to police voluntarily during a search and seizure.

The probe comes after it has emerged that the woman, Julia Wendell, 21 (pictured), is planning a second DNA test after the first one proved she is not the missing British toddler who vanished while on a family holiday in Portugal in 2007

Madeleine went missing from her family's holiday apartment in the Algarve resort of Praia da Luz in May 2007 and has not been seen since

Julia (right) was assisted by Dr Fia Johansson (left), a private investigator and psychic medium, in submitting DNA samples

Department spokesperson Sgt. Mike Woodroof told RadarOnline: 'We are not going to make any comments about the case.

'Our investigation is taking a deep look into it and were going to let them do their investigative duties and then from that point let the judicial system take over  if it needs to.'

Wendell made headlines around the world earlier this year after she uploaded her spurious theories on social media with the username '@IamMadeleineMcCann'.

Her claims led to Wendell even appearing on talk show Dr Phil after being flown across the Atlantic by American media personality Dr Fia Johansson to discuss the far-fetched possibility.

Dr Johansson was reportedly the one that took Wendell to live California after the alleged death threats, according to RadarOnline.

But finally she was persuaded to take a DNA test and the results proved conclusively that she had no relation to Madeleine.

This was before a MailOnline investigation earlier this month revealed that Wendell had previously claimed to be three other missing girls.

Julia's claims were debunked after DNA test results proved she is not missing Madeleine McCann

Kate and Gerry, the parents of Madeleine McCann, spoke out after DNA results for a Polish woman claiming to be their missing daughter came back negative

Wendell's own mother Dorota Wandelt-Cholewinski (pictured) and stepfather Piotr Cholewinski are particularly upset by the actions of US media personality Dr Fia Johnansson, a self-styled psychic and mystic, friends said

Wroclaw is rated as one of the top 100 cities in the world to live in and is famed for its picturesque Gothic squares and churches

Wendell's mother Dorota runs a chain of successful clothes shops in the city, where she lives with husband Piotr

Last week Wendell said in a statement: 'It wasn't my intention to bring sadness or any other negative emotion to anyone, especially to McCann's family.'

Wendell also issued a 17-page statement in which she apologised for the 'sadness' she caused the McCanns, of Rothley, Leicestershire - but then bizarrely denied that she had ever claimed she was Madeleine.

Despite her apology, Wendell has now doubled down on her claims and said on Instagram she wanted to do a second DNA test: 'I want to do this because I just want to do this and I don't even have to explain why but I think everyone knows why I want to do this.

'When the results come I will let you know everything.'

She also claimed she is being 'supported' by officials and people in law enforcement.
Last month there was a major new development in Finland, which recently became a NATO member. That was significant because for nearly a century Finland has been neutral, a policy that provided some additional protection from Russian aggression. That protection became obviously less effective when Putin tried to restore the old USSRs borders, so Finland joined NATO for additional protection from Russia. Some of that protection is in the form of other NATO members providing specialized intelligence capabilities to give Finland and NATO more data on Russian threats.

Finland has a 1,300 kilometers border with Russia, which includes close proximity to bases and shipyards that support the Russian Northern Fleet. This is the largest of Russias four regional fleets and includes most of the nuclear submarines. There is also a major shipyard, for building new ships and maintaining or upgrading existing ones. In March the Russian border got its first visit from an American RC-135 Rivet Joint ELINT (electronic intelligence) aircraft. The RC-135 is based in England, flew from there to Finland and then carried out its patrol of the border, including the far north portion that is close to the Kola Peninsula, where most of those Russian naval facilities are. Another NATO member, Britain, has its own version of Rivet Joint which will also pay visits to Finland.

This degree of scrutiny annoys Russia, which considered most of its Finnish border safe from such scrutiny. The Northern Fleet bases are also near the 200 kilometer border with Norway, one of the founding (in 1949) NATO members. RC-135s sometimes scrutinized Russian bases near the Norway border. With Finland available for RC-135 visits, such scrutiny becomes more intense. The RC-135 was designed to thoroughly scrutinize nearby land areas for a wide array of electronic activity. This activity was identified, studied and cataloged. Since September 11, 2001, the RC-135s have been very busy.

For example, in 2016 RC-135s returned to Iraq after a five year absence. At least one was spotted taking off in Qatar and heading north to Iraq (likely) or Syria (less likely). These aircraft not only collect a wide variety of electronic signals in an area, and analyze them quickly, but can also cripple that activity using onboard jammers. The analysis effort looks principally for patterns. The enemy below leaves signs electronically (cell phones, walkie-talkies) or visually (images captured on surveillance cameras). Using the right math and analytical tools (software and computers), you can quickly discover where perpetrators of undesirable activity are coming from, and have the ground troops promptly shell, bomb or raid those locations. Its also possible to find out where people are going as well as the composition and status of a group with these analytical tools. But it all depends on collecting a lot of electronic data for long enough to detect the patterns.

This kind of work was popular with the RC-135 crews (about thirty aircrew, techies, linguists and analysts) in Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere. Here the RC-135 crews were getting a chance to do, in a combat zone, what they have long trained for. Moreover, it's relatively risk free, as the aircraft fly beyond the range of machine-gun or shoulder fired anti-aircraft missiles. In addition, the most productive work is done during night missions, when the enemy can't even see the RC-135's high above. Syria was potentially different because the Syrian government and their Russian allies had radars and jet fighters that could threaten an EC-135.

Other nations, both allied and hostile, have noted the success of the RC-135 and either (like Britain) bought the American originals or, like most other nations, built their own. Russia used the Tu-204 airliner for its new RC-135 type electronic warfare aircraft. This two engine jet can carry up to 210 passengers, or 21 tons of cargo. The military version is called the Tu-214 or, for the RC-135 clone, the Tu-214R. Russia has built at least two of these and although still in development one of them was seen over Syria in early 2016 and was apparently useful enough to keep around.

Russia and China both studied the use of RC-135s in Iraq and Afghanistan and while the Russian response was two Tu-214Rs, the Chinese have adapted an aircraft more similar to the C-130 and has been seen using these along contested borders (India and the South China Sea). Many nations, including the United States, have been equipping smaller (twin-engine turboprop) commercial aircraft and larger UAVs to carry out some of the functions of the RC-135.

The U.S. Air Force has been operating RC-135s for over half a century and in 2008 one of them set a record, spending over 50,000 hours in the air since it entered service in 1962. These are built on the same airframe as the KC-135 tanker and Boeing 707 airliner. Periodically the air force has to remove KC-135s or RC-135s from service because of metal fatigue problems (usually in the wings, or with the pylons that attach each of the four engines to the wings.) All 732 KC/RC-135s were built between 1956 and 1965. The Boeing 707 commercial transport is actually a civilian version of the original KC-135, which itself evolved from the World War II B-29 heavy bomber. Since the 1980s the KC-135 fleet has undergone constant repair and reconstruction. New engines, and new structural components have been added, as older items wore out, or showed signs of wearing out faster than anticipated.

The RC-135s, P-3s and other electronic surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft have been operating out of an American base in Qatar since the 1990s, and there are currently 9,000 U.S. troops in Qatar to support air and naval operations through the Persian Gulf, Indian Ocean and northwest Africa. Another base in Britain enables easy access to northern Europe.

The 130-ton RC-135 is a four-jet aircraft that usually cruises at 500 kilometers an hour and a range of 6,500 kilometers. RC-135 can be refueled in the air and has a max endurance of about twelve hours. The United States currently has 17 RC-135s in service.
An elderly bald eagle who went viral for mistakenly incubating a rock instead of an egg has been gifted his very own eaglet - after caretakers became enthralled by the bird's determination.

Murphy, 31, who has been a resident of the World Bird Sanctuary in Missouri for the past thirty years, dutifully protected the stone since March.

Video posted by the sanctuary showed the bird's undying sense of devotion toward the rock - which he apparently mistook for an unhatched offspring and surrounded with a 'simple' nest, staffers said.

Murphy, an elderly bald eagle who went viral for mistakenly incubating a rock instead of an egg for weeks, was gifted an eaglet last week by staffers at Missouri's World Bird Sanctuary

Video posted by the sanctuary showed the bird's undying sense of devotion toward the rock - which he apparently mistook for an unhatched offspring and surrounded with a 'simple' nest

Almost immediately, Murphy's adoration for the stone became apparent - with the mild mannered bird becoming 'fussy' and protective whenever approached.

It is not uncommon for male eagles to seek out objects to incubate during the spring mating season, as both male and females are tasked with protecting their nests.

Since capturing the hearts of millions, the bird's steadfastness kept his keepers at bay - and made him the 'obvious choice' for a foster parent to the two-week-old injured eaglet brought into the sanctuary this month.

'Murphy and his new charge are bonding beautifully,' the sanctuary wrote in an update to social media posted Sunday after gifting Murphy the eaglet in the week.

An accompanying video showed Murphy - who for most of his life has been flightless due to a permanent wing injury - showing his new foster child how to eat.

'If you watch carefully, you can see Murphy waiting for the baby to eat. When the baby doesn't eat right away, he takes a bit of food, and then the baby begins to eat,' staffers explained.

The stone Murphy mistook for an egg in March - leading keepers to tap him as a foster dad after being inspired by his fatherly sense of duty

The hatchling, which has yet to be named due to a longheld birdkeeping superstition, almost died in a storm last month, but is now doing well with his new dad, staffers said

'This is the kind of bonding we're looking for.'

The sanctuary proceeded to praise Murphy for 'modeling eagle behavior perfectly,' and also for 'becoming a wonderful, gentle papa.'

But for weeks, the bird was not so gentle - with hormones often seen from his species during spring months spurring him to take to the stone.

'It was an average rock,' World Bird Sanctuary CEO Dawn Griffard said of the occurrence, which would soon evolve into a sage on social media.

'It didn't even look like an egg, but he insisted on incubating it.'
A terrified woman was filmed screaming as she was set on by a group of youngsters during an orgy of violence - which outgoing Mayor Lori Lightfoot has insisted 'wasn't mayhem.'

The 19-second video shot during Saturday's 'teen takeover' showed the group of mostly black teenagers crowding around a white woman attempting to enter her building, before pummeling her and moving on.

She could be heard screaming with fright at the attack - while her captors cackled with laughter. It's unclear what - if anything - prompted the attack, which was on the verge of beginning when the camera began to roll.

The footage was tagged with the caption: 'Yay we get active.'

A Twitter account sharing details of Windy City crimes wrote that the footage had been included in a 'sort of "mix tape" of social media posts' that are purported to be from 'the 'large group' incident in the city's Loop area on Saturday night.

The teens descended upon the woman who was attempting to get into her building before brutally attacking her and moving on

More footage from the evening of chaos showed some teenagers jumping on top of a bus while others started a massive brawl after descending on Millennium Park and attempting to breach barricades.

Gunshots rang out, with rounds striking two teenage boys aged 16 and 17 who were reported to be in stable condition as of Sunday.

Cars were also left vandalized near East Washington Street in the Windy City, including a Tesla which was seized and torched.

The situation began Saturday when a crowd of more than a hundred rowdy teenagers turned violent as dozens torched and smashed cars while blaring music.

In total, 15 people were arrested including nine adults and six children.

Police were unable to control or hamper the damage done by the teens, whose numbers may have exceeded 1,000.

Following the chaos wrought upon downtown Chicago by the hordes of teenagers, outgoing Mayor Lori Lightfoot weighed in on the event, telling a local reporter that she thinks calling the weekend scene 'mayhem' is incorrect.

'The mass majority of the young people who came downtown, came downtown because there was great weather and it was an opportunity to enjoy the city. That's absolutely, entirely appropriate,' said Lightfoot, defending the teens.

She added: 'There are a few that came with different intentions. They have and they will be dealt with. But I'm not going to use your language, which I think is wrong, to say there's "mayhem".'

129 Wabash Avenue in Chicago, where the woman in the video was attacked

Brandon Johnson, 47, said Sunday he does not 'condone the destructive activity' and that it's 'unacceptable' but that it should not be used as a way to vilify the group

A Tesla that was lit on fire and destroyed during the night of chaos

Following the night of destruction, Chicago's mayor-elect said the city should not demonize the teens who organized the takeover over the weekend.

Brandon Johnson, 47, said Sunday he does not 'condone the destructive activity' and that it's 'unacceptable and has no place' in Chicago, but that it should not be used as a way to vilify the group.

'However, it is not constructive to demonize youth who have otherwise been starved of opportunities in their own communities,' said Johnson, a progressive Democrat.

Johnson is the mayor-elect, and is a former union organizer who has called for new taxes and more social programs in Chicago.

Despite the outrage over the violence and destruction, Johnson said he thinks the only path forward is to 'work together' to give kids safer spaces.

'Our city must work together to create spaces for youth to gather safely and responsibly, under adult guidance and supervision, to ensure that every part of our city remains welcome for both residents and visitors,' he said in a statement.

'Our city must work together to create spaces for youth to gather safely and responsibly, under adult guidance and supervision, to ensure that every part of our city remains welcome for both residents and visitors,' Johnson said in a statement released on Sunday

One Illinois husband and wife may not see eye-to-eye with Johnson's plan not to vilify the teens who terrorized the city.

The couple had driven from Indianapolis to the city on a warm spring weekend to take in the sights, but ended their Saturday night with their minivan being attacked by and angry mob and the husband in the hospital.

The pair and another family member were driving near the Chicago Cultural Center when 'suddenly a mob of teens between 16 and 18-year-olds began climbing and hitting our truck,' the wife told a local news outlet.

'We even saw them get on top of a bus,' she said.

The husband, who was in the driver's seat the time, was treated for cuts, but his wife says the injuries are more emotional than physical.

'We're so scared right now. We don't want to step out of the house,' she said. 'For 4 hours after the incident my husband and I were just shaking.'

The family's Toyota minivan had its windows shattered and several large dents on the back of the vehicle.
Police are urging anyone who knows him or has information to come forward

Police have released new CCTV images of a man they want to question after a woman was raped behind a library in County Durham.

Cleveland Police are hunting for the man after the woman, in her 30s, was raped in York Road, Hartlepool, on Saturday, April 8, at around 4.30am.

Fresh images released today show the man leaving The Showroom bar on Victoria Road in the town in the early hours of April 8.

The suspect is described as about 38 years old, with blond hair tied in a bun.

He was said to have been wearing grey and black clothing, and spoke with an Eastern European accent.

Cleveland Police released new CCTV images today of a man they want to question in connection with a rape behind a library in County Durham

The suspect was said to have been wearing grey and black clothing, and spoke with an Eastern European accent

The library in York Road, Hartlepool, where the attack took place on April 8, at around 4.30am

Fresh images released today show the man leaving The Showroom bar on Victoria Road in the town in the early hours of Saturday, April 8

Emergency services rushed to the scene following reports that a woman had been raped.

Officers are urging anyone who knows the man or has information about him to come forward.

They have also appealed to anyone who was in the area around the library or near Loons Bar on Victoria Road at the time of the incident.

Cleveland Police said: 'Officers are keen to trace the man in the image as he may be able to assist with enquiries.

'It is hoped that witnesses, or someone who knows the man, may recognise him from the new images released and come forward with information.

'Police would also like to appeal to anyone who was in the area around the library or near Loons Bar on Victoria Road around the time of the incident, as it is believed there were people in the area around the time who may be able to assist with enquiries.

'The suspect is described as around 38 years old with blond hair in a bun, wearing grey and black clothing. He is believed to have spoken with an Eastern European accent.

'Any witnesses or anyone who may know the identity of the person in the CCTV image is asked to contact Cleveland Police on 101, quoting incident number 065835.'
The man charged with second degree murder in the shooting of Kaylin Gillis was formerly a professional motorcycle racing driver whose wife advises on how to handle stress.

Gillis, 20, was traveling through the rural town of Hebron with three other people Saturday night just before 10:00 pm when the group made a wrong turn onto the property of Kevin Monahan, 65.

They were trying to turn the car around when Monahan came out onto his porch and fired two shots, according to Washington County Sheriff Jeffrey Murphy. One round hit Gillis.

Monahan's lawyer, Kurt Mausert, described his client on Monday as having no-prior criminal convictions and said that he owns a contracting business in Washington County, around 60 miles northeast of Albany, close to the New York/Vermont border.

'My preliminary view of this case is that it was a series of errors which resulted in a tragedy. It is too soon to say more than that,' Mausert told the New York Times. At the time of writing, Monahan does not have a court date set.

Kevin Monahan, 65, is charged with second degree murder in the shooting death of Kaylin Gillis, his lawyer says the suspect has no prior convictions

Monahan is married to Polly Jinx, 69, a Department of Labor counselor who advises people how to handle-work related stress

The couple lives along Patterson Hill Road in Hebron, New York, the area is known for its spotty cell phone coverage which officials believe could have contributed to Gillis taking a wrong turn

Online records show that Monahan lives at his home along Patterson Hill Road in Salem, New York, with his wife of 35 years, Polly Jinx Monahan. He is a registered Republican.

Polly Jinx Monahan, 69, is an employment counselor with the New York State Department of Labor, she says on her LinkedIn page.

Among her 'specialties,' she lists 'stress management,' 'positivity' and 'optimism.'

Polly has been in her role since 2009, having previously worked in other career guidance roles in addition to being the chairman of the Washington County Youth Advisory Board.

She is a graduate of SUNY Brockport and the State University of New York at Plattsburgh.

In 2009, Polly wrote an article for the Glens Falls Post Star on how to handle the stress of being unemployed.

Among the tips offered are meditation, communications and to 'focus on gratitude, forgiveness and love.'

'It is difficult to focus on gratitude, forgiveness (self and others), and love and still be stressed,' she wrote.

In another paragraph, Polly advised those who are stressed to 'stop catastrophic thoughts.'

'Ask yourself "what is the worst that can happen" and then estimate what the chances are that the event would work out that way,' she added.

Friends remembered Gillis over the weekend as a gentle soul who loved animals

According to Zillow, Kevin and Polly Monahan's home was built in 2004 and is estimated to cost $310,000

The town of Hebron is located in Washington County, around 60 miles northeast of Albany, close to the New York/Vermont border

'I know for a fact that she comes from a good family. A very good family and I know them personally and she's young girl that was taken way too young,' Sheriff Jeff Murphy said

In October 1986, the Post Star published the couple's engagement announcement. The article referred to the suspect as being a professional motorcycle racer who regularly competed in the Camel Pro Series.

In May 1983, Monahan was among the six racers who were injured and hospitalized in a crash at a Camel event in Ohio.

According to Zillow, Kevin and Polly Monahan's home was built in 2004 and is estimated to cost $310,000.

The Albany Times Union notes in their report that properties in the area where the shooting took place are only accessible through unpaved driveways. At a press conference on Monday, Sheriff Murphy said Monahan has lived at the home for 'quite a while.'

Pictures of the house show large panel windows in the front of the home and a no trespassing sign nailed to a tree on the property.

'Hunting, fishing, trapping or trespassing for any purpose is strictly forbidden. Violators will be prosecuted,' the warning reads.

At the time of their engagement, Monahan was working for his father's business Robert D. Monahan Associates, a roofing contracting firm, in Hudson Falls, New York. The suspect grew up in nearby Lake Sunnyside as one of five siblings.

Robert Monahan was a veteran of World War II, serving in Europe, and was a member of the Queensbury Republican Committee as well as the American Motorcyclist Association.

He married his wife, Betsy, in 1942. Her obituary describes her as a passionate environmentalist and 'active member of local government.'

A GoFundMe has since been started by friends to help cover funeral expenses

' Kaylin Gillis, you will be greatly missed,' wrote friend Chuchay Stark in a Facebook tribute

Following the shooting on Saturday, Gillis' friends drove to the neighboring town of Salem, northeast of Albany near the Vermont state line, and called 911, said Murphy, who noted the shooting took place in an area with limited cell phone service.

Emergency crews arrived and performed CPR on Gillis but couldnt save her.

When officers arrived at Monahans house to investigate the shooting, he refused to come out, Murphy said. Authorities spoke with him through a 911 dispatcher and in person for about an hour before he was taken into custody, according to the sheriff.

Monahan was booked into the Warren County jail on a charge of second-degree murder.

Authorities made an administrative decision to hold Monahan in Warren County as Gillis' father, Andrew, is a corrections officer in the Washington County Jail.

Sheriff Murphy said at a news conference Monday that Gillis, who lived in Schuylerville, 'was an innocent young girl who was out with friends looking for another friends house.'

Ralph Yarl, 16, was shot twice in the head by a white man after he approached the wrong house by mistake when going to collect his siblings

Andrew Lester, 84, has been charged with two felony counts over the April 13 shooting of Ralph Yarl, which Kansas City prosecutors said was racially motivated

The shooting happened days after 16-year-old Ralph Yarl was shot and wounded in Kansas City, Missouri, after going to the wrong house to pick up his younger brothers.

Friends remembered Gillis at the weekend as a gentle soul who loved animals.

'I know for a fact that she comes from a good family. A very good family and I know them personally and she's young girl that was taken way too young,' Murphy said.

'Kaylin Gillis, you will be greatly missed,' wrote Chuchay Stark in a Facebook tribute.

'I've known you since your Barbie days with my kids. Since then, you stayed a beautiful, sweet, and loving person,' the post continued.

'You are still the sweet and most loving child I know. You love dogs even though we all know that one particular dog was mean to you when you were younger,' Stark wrote.

'Kaylin, rest easy, I'm sure Roxie Roo is beside you now while you are looking down on us. Thank you for all the fun memories you shared with me, Lipsha, and Loren. I'm glad I had the pleasure of getting to know you,' the post concludes.

A GoFundMe has since been started by friends to help cover funeral expenses.

The fundraiser has brought in just over $38,000 of its $50,000 goal as of Monday.

'What a horrible tragedy. My deepest condolences,' wrote one person who donated.

'I remember Kaylin from when she was a toddler hanging out with us at our sleepovers. My thoughts are with the family,' wrote another.

'I am so terribly sorry to read this devastating news. This is the second GoFundMe donation today by me to the families of young people who mistakenly went to the wrong address. Enough,' said one commenter.
The Bakers Oven forced out by NSW Government bureaucrats

He was the poster boy for the New South Wales' Government's Dine and Discover pandemic voucher scheme encouraging people to return to cafes and restaurants.

But The Bakers Oven owner Chris Kreketos is now being evicted from the business in Sydney's The Rocks tourist precinct which has been in his family for 41 years.

'I'm destroyed. I'm heartbroken. Gutted - all at the same time,' he told A Current Affair.

'It's a very hard pill to swallow.'

Mr Kreketos helped launch the voucher scheme in 2021 but two years on NSW bureaucrats have decided not to renew his lease, ending the family's operation on George Street.

The Bakers Oven owner Chris Kreketos (pictured) says he feels 'used' by the NSW Government after being told he is being booted out of his family-run bakery

His sister Val (pictured) said their father who founded the business is 'heartbroken'

He and his sister Val battled to keep the lights on through the Covid crisis and even hosted politicians and journalists for the Dine and Discover voucher launch.

NSW Deputy Secretary for Cities and Active Transport Kiersten Fishburn told A Current Affair The Bakers Oven heritage building needs urgent capital works.

'It's not a matter of taking money from someone, we need to go out into the marketplace, renew and refresh licences and make sure we're getting the best value for the people of NSW,' she said.

But asked if he felt like he had been used, Mr Kreketos replied: 'You could say that'.

He and his sister Val offered to renovate the bakery but to no avail.

'We pledged about $800,000 to restore and do a fit-out on the site and it was knocked back, wasn't accepted,' Mr Kreketos said.

"'Undercooked" is what they said.'

The Bakers Oven owner Chris Kreketos (pictured) was the poster boy for NSW Government's Dine and Discover pandemic voucher scheme

The Bakers Oven has been in the family for over 40 years. it will c lose its doors for the final time next Wednesday

The much-loved cafe was established by their father Bill Kreketos in the early 1980s.

'He's battling health issues at the moment so he's very, very heartbroken as well,' Val said through tears.

'He just says keep fighting.'

She added: We put our blood, sweat and tears into the business. Every day for seven days a week.

The Kriketos family's lease expires on April 26, while several other longtime businesses at The Rocks are also in limbo after being placed on month-to-month leases.

Anoush, who has run a souvenir shop for 30 years, said: 'We suffered two-and-a-half years with no business. Now that the business is back we they want us to go.'

Most of the property in The Rocks is leasehold and owned by the NSW state Government.

Placemaking NSW is a state government advisory committee formed in 2020 to provide 'strategic advice' on the management of precincts like The Rocks and Darling Harbour.
G7 foreign ministers warned today that the group would inflict 'severe costs' on those helping Russia wage war in Ukraine and put Beijing on notice over its 'militarisation activities' in the South China Sea, sparking a furious reaction from the Asian nation.

After two days of talks in the bucolic Japanese mountain resort town Karuizawa, the top diplomats from leading economies unveiled no new sanctions on Moscow over its invasion but pledged to crack down on those helping Russia evade the measures and acquire weapons.

The ministers offered a united front on China, insisting that their Taiwan policy was unchanged despite recent controversial comments from France's president Emmanuel Macron.

Their final statement led to China arguing that it had been 'maliciously slandered and smeared'.

While talks were dominated by Ukraine and regional challenges, including a demand that North Korea 'refrain' from new nuclear tests or ballistic missile launches, the ministers covered a broad sweep of global policy problems.

From left, European Union Deputy Secretary General and Political Director of the European External Action Service Enrique Mora, British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Japan's Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi, Canada's Foreign Minister Melanie Joly, France's Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna and Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani pose for a photo during the G7 Foreign Ministers' Meeting at The Prince Karuizawa hotel in Karuizawa, Japan, on April 17, 2023

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin pictured together in June 2019

They met as fighting continued in Sudan between the army and paramilitaries, forcing the insertion of last-minute language demanding both sides 'end hostilities immediately without pre-conditions'.

And there was renewed condemnation of the increasing restrictions placed on women and minorities by Taliban authorities in Afghanistan, described by the ministers as 'systematic abuses'.

They demanded the 'immediate reversal' of 'unacceptable decisions' including a ban on women working with non-government organisations and the United Nations in the country.

But it was clear that two topics dominated discussions above all - the war in Ukraine, and China's growing military and economic clout.

The diplomats from Japan, Britain, the United States, Canada, Germany, Italy, France and the European Union promised to continue 'intensifying' sanctions on Russia and increase efforts to respond to those offering Moscow arms or other support, warning of 'severe costs'.

They also slammed Russia's 'irresponsible nuclear rhetoric' and called a threat by Moscow to deploy nuclear weapons in Belarus 'unacceptable'.

'As Ukraine prepares to launch a counteroffensive to take back its land... we stand with Ukraine,' US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters.

Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi and French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Catherine Colonna shake hands ahead the Japan-France Foreign Ministers meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Tokyo on April 18, 2023

The statement made clear that the ministers were mindful of the furore caused by Macron's comments last week, following a trip to Beijing, that Europe should avoid 'crises that aren't ours'.

'There is no change in the basic positions of the G7 members on Taiwan,' it said, calling peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait 'indispensable' to global security and prosperity.

'For the first time in G7 history, we were able to confirm, in writing, our commitment to a free and open international order based on the rule of law,' Japan's Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi said.

Blinken said he had never seen 'greater convergence' on views about China and Taiwan, and the statement warned Beijing on everything from its nuclear arsenal to its business practices.

And, without directly mentioning China, the group pledged to step up cooperation against 'economic coercion' - the practice of weaponising import or export rules for political purposes.

Even the warning on offering support to Russia in Ukraine may be read as a message for China, echoing repeated statements from Western officials cautioning Beijing against directly arming Moscow.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said the ministers had 'disregarded... objective facts, grossly interfered in China's internal affairs and maliciously slandered and smeared China'.

'Between the lines, the relevant statement is full of arrogance, prejudice and sinister intent to oppose and suppress China,' Wang told reporters, adding that Beijing had 'lodged solemn representations' with host Japan.

The talks set the stage for a G7 leaders' summit next month in Hiroshima, where Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida wants to make nuclear disarmament a key plank of discussions.

Tuesday's statement devotes a long segment to disarmament and non-proliferation but contains little in the way of new commitments and refers to the 'harsh security environment', suggesting a difficult path to real achievements.

It calls on all countries to transparently document their nuclear arsenals, urges Russia to stick with a moratorium on nuclear tests and calls for China to hold 'risk reduction' talks with Washington.
A leading figure in the French publishing world has been arrested in London on suspicion of terror offences over his alleged involvement in protests against Emmanuel Macron's pension reforms back home, his employer claimed today.

Ernest Moret, who works for the radical left Editions La Fabrique, was reportedly detained by British police after arriving at St Pancras station from Paris on Monday evening ahead of the London Book Fair.

Mr Moret, whose return trip to Paris is booked for Friday, was apparently detained because of his refusal to reveal device passcodes and full access to his phone. He was held under UK anti-terrorism legislation amid questions from his supporters about why the British have arrested him, not the French.

A protest will take place at the French Institute in south Kensington at 7pm, when people will call for French ambassador Helene Duchene to request Moret's release.

Moret, who had taken the Eurostar and is Editions La Fabrique's foreign rights manager, was on his way to the London Book Fair, which takes place in Olympia over three days from April 18 to 20, when officers tried to 'determine whether he was engaged in terrorist acts or in possession of material for use in terrorism', the firm said.

'The police officers claimed that Ernest had participated in demonstrations in France as a justification for this act - a quite remarkably inappropriate statement for a British police officer to make and which seems to clearly indicate complicity between French and British authorities on this matter', the spokesman added.

Ernest Moret was reportedly detained by police after arriving at St Pancras station (file picture) from Paris on Monday evening

Riot police walk past a fire sat by demonstrators during a protest against the government and French President Emmanuel Macron's pension reforms in France last night

Officers said he had participated in demonstrations in France over President Emmanuel Macron raising the retirement age from 62 to 64, a joint statement with Verso Books said.

It read: 'On arrival at St Pancras Station, Ernest was pulled aside by police officers acting under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act 2000 and detained for questioning without a lawyer present, allegedly to determine whether he was engaged in terrorist acts or in possession of material for use in terrorism.

'It was demanded that he give up his phone and pass codes to the officers, with no justification or explanation offered. This morning, Ernest was formally arrested and transferred to a police station, accused of obstruction because of his refusal to give up his pass codes. He remains in police custody.

'We consider these actions to be outrageous and unjustifiable infringements of basic principles of the freedom of expression and an example of the abuse of anti-terrorism laws.

Ernest Moret, who works for the radical left Editions La Fabrique, is said to have been accused of being involved in the protests, according to his employer

'We consider that this assault on the freedom of expression of a publisher is yet another manifestation of the slide towards repressive and authoritarian measures taken by the current French government in the face of widespread popular discontent and protest.

'It is crucial for all defenders of basic democratic values to express in the strongest terms that we find this intolerable and outrageous.'

The National Union of Journalists' senior books and magazines organiser Pamela Morton urged members to join the protest and said: 'It seems extraordinary that the British police have acted this way in using terrorism legislation to arrest the publisher who was on legitimate business here for the London Book Fair.'

A Metropolitan Police spokesperson said: 'At around 1930hrs on Monday April 17, a 28-year-old man was stopped by ports officers as he arrived at St Pancras station, using powers under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act 2000.

'On Tuesday April 18, the man was subsequently arrested on suspicion of wilfully obstructing a Schedule 7 examination (contrary to section 18 of the Terrorism Act 2000). The man remains in custody.

'Inquiries continue.'

The French embassy in London have been approached for comment.
Gatwick Airport descended into scenes of chaos after eGates appeared to fail for travellers at passport control.

Families on flights landing early on Tuesday were forced to form 'disgraceful' massive queues.

Calling the scene a 'shambles', they complained there were not enough desks open - meaning vulnerable passengers had to wait to get through - with others saying they had to queue for 40 minutes.

Sources confirmed to MailOnline that there had been issues with the eGates in the North Terminal late on Monday night - with the queuing due to the large number of people returning from holidays, including two big flights coming in.

From early Tuesday morning until 11am the e-gates were down, which created some further queuing. However, the sources insisted there were no major issues with all border force desks manned.

But the photos taken by passengers and posted to Twitter are reminiscent of the chaotic scenes and queues when mass air travel restarted in spring 2021 following the easing of lockdown rules.

Queues at London Gatwick airport's passport control today as passengers arrive on flights

People wait in lines for passport control at London Gatwick Airport on Tuesday morning

Twitter user MrsD83 posted this picture at Gatwick in the early hours of Tuesday

Passenger Kleo Kaloudi, who arrived at Gatwick yesterday, told MailOnline: 'The UK has to be the only country where families and young children are treated this way.

How eGates work and how they are managed The Home Office has more than 270 eGates across 15 air and rail ports in Britain and they have been in place for UK and EU nationals to use since 2008. In May 2019, the system was expanded for use by nationals from Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea and the US. The gates can be used by adults with a biometric or 'chipped' passport. They are managed by the Home Office's 372million central UK-wide security database  known as Border Crossing. They use facial recognition technology to compare a passenger's face with a digital image in their passport, and are monitored by Border Force. Anyone rejected has their identity and passport checked manually. The eGates failed at airports and ports UK-wide in 2021 on September 24, October 6 and November 10, and were closed for weeks when foreign leisure travel resumed on May 17 that year after they could not recognise passenger locator forms. Advertisement

'The queue at Gatwick Airport passport control for families is a disgrace. Every other country I have travelled to gives priority to families with young children.

'England is the only country that make you sit in large queues for long hours with small children  inhumane. No family values left in this society.'

Another arrival, Miriam Norgate, of London, who is head of operations for the charity Malaria No More UK, tweeted: 'The only country we've landed on with queues for passport control. Literally about 1,000 people in the queue for UK citizens only as eGates have failed. Sort it out.'

She added: 'Only two single toilets. Next ones 100m and three out of four not working. No special help for families with small kids. UK, you are failing us. Come on. Give up eGates. Use real people.'

Twitter user MrsD83, who arrived in the early hours of yesterday, added: 'Gatwick airport passport control is a shambles.

'Two family flights full of your most vulnerable passengers in the early hours and four out of 20 passport windows open.'

Others tweeting photos of the queues yesterday morning included Mark Harris from Bristol, who wrote: 'Gatwick airport, why is there a standstill at passport control?'

And Lola Ripolles, who is based in London, added: 'Movement at Gatwick passport control this morning 40 minutes in line a whole choreography of travellers moving through the tapes.'

A further Twitter user from Bradford, West Yorkshire, said: 'Gatwick airport, shocking experience at passport control one person on passports for a huge line of families with children. Disgusting and a joke of an airport.'

Passengers have previously endured chaos due to eGate issues, most notably in autumn 2021 when they failed three times in as many months.

The eGates are managed by the Home Office's 372million central UK-wide security database  known as Border Crossing  which came into use in June that year.

There are more than 270 of them across 15 air and rail ports in Britain and they have been in place for UK and European Union nationals to use since 2008.

Passengers can use eGates if they have a biometric symbol on the cover of their passport and are a British citizen; a national of an EU country, Australia, Canada, Iceland, Japan, Liechtenstein, New Zealand, Norway, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland or the USA; or a member of the Registered Traveller service  for those who frequently leave the country.

You have to be aged at least 18 to go through by yourself, but those aged 12 to 17 can go through when accompanied by an adult. Heathrow trialled a scheme earlier this year during the February half-term for them to be used for children aged ten and 11.

Aviation expert Nicky Kelvin, head of The Points Guy UK, told MailOnline: 'The scenes at Gatwick Airport this week are reminiscent of the travel chaos which we saw in 2021, when leisure travel resumed fully for UK holidaymakers following the global pandemic restrictions.

'As the borders have been fully staffed up over recent months, we haven't seen huge issues as of late. However, there is now a perfect storm of the failing of the eGates as well as an influx of passengers travelling through the airport over the peak Easter travel period, resulting in excessive queues.

'It's worth noting that sometimes these queues do move relatively quickly but for those who are less able to stand for long periods or for those who are travelling with small children, it can be a very challenging situation thanks to the unknown timings.'

A Home Office spokesperson told MailOnline: 'Border Force's number one priority is to maintain a secure border, and we will not compromise on security.

'We are working hard with Gatwick Airport to ensure passengers have the smoothest possible journey, and we will continue to deploy our staff as flexibly as we can.'

A Gatwick spokesperson said: 'Some passengers experienced delays at immigration yesterday. Our staff worked with UK Border Force - who operate passport control including the e-gates - to provide assistance to passengers where necessary.'
A paralegal who spent two years on maternity leave and then was made 'redundant' when she announced she was pregnant again within three months of returning to work has won more than 18,000.

Farzana Yasin became pregnant three times in as many years working at a law firm, an employment tribunal heard.

After giving birth in October 2018 she extended her period of leave the following August to continue caring for her child.

Just weeks later she revealed she was pregnant a second time with a due date in January 2020.

She eventually returned from 'back to back' maternity leave in November that year - only to announce in January that she was once again pregnant.

Farzana Yasin was made redundant from her 18,000 a year job at Swift Lawyers Ltd, Bolton,

Weeks later, in March 2021, her female boss made her redundant from her 18,000 a year job at Swift Lawyers Ltd, Bolton, with the firm insisting it had 'nothing to do' with her pregnancy.

Miss Yasin won claims of unfair dismissal and discrimination on the grounds of pregnancy at the tribunal in Manchester.

She has now been awarded a total of 18,792.26 in compensation including 15,000 for injury to feelings.

The hearing was told Miss Yasin joined the firm as a paralegal working on CWI (Cavity Wall Installation) and PI (personal injury) claims in December 2017, becoming a 'model employee' and was a 'grafter'.

After giving birth in October the following year, she was due to come back to work in August 2019 but delayed her return when her child developed 'serious' health complications.

The tribunal heard she felt 'pressured' by her bosses to come back despite the infant's condition.

She gave birth to her second child in January 2020 before returning to work in early November the following year.

Miss Yasin was then furloughed in early 2021 at the onset of the national lockdown so she could shield with her vulnerable child.

On January 19 she sent an email to her manager, Michelle Abbott, telling her that she was, once again, pregnant.

After a delay in responding, Mrs Abbott replied to congratulate her, explaining it was already being discussed by the firm's staff before she made the announcement.

In March, Mrs Abbott told Miss Yasin she was being made redundant, citing a drop in revenue from CWI cases, and insisted it was not influenced by her pregnancy.

When Miss Yasin asked to join another area of the business she was told there was 'just nothing' available.

And she was denied a request to work as a conveyance assistant - despite the firm hiring for such a position months later.

Employment judge Joanne Elizabeth Dunlop said Miss Yasin's pregnancy meant employers were 'not interested' in avoiding redundancy.

Judge Dunlop said: '[Swift Lawyers Ltd] acted outside the band of reasonable responses in relation to... its obligation to consider suitable alternative employment.

'For those reasons, we find that the dismissal was unfair.

'When Miss Yasin announced her third pregnancy there was a delay in any response from [her manager]. It is evident, however, that the fact of her pregnancy was being discussed in the office.

'We consider that Miss Yasin has proven facts from which it is possible to conclude, in the absence of an alternative explanation from [Swift], that both [Swift's] failure to engage in genuine and meaningful consultation, and its failure to consider Miss Yasin for the role of conveyancing assistant were on the grounds of her pregnancy.

'If [the company] had offered her a role as a conveyancing assistant, or found some other work which would have enabled her to remain employed there would have been an almost immediate need to backfill that work due to her starting her third maternity.

'They were not interested in seeking ways to avoid the redundancy.

'There was going to be a need for further assistance in the conveyancing department. A new assistant was recruited in June 2021, despite assurances given to Miss Yasin that there was no need for an assistant.

'We consider those circumstances give rise to an inference that Miss Yasin would have been treated differently if she had not been pregnant.

'The facts set out above are, in our view, sufficient for Miss Yasin to demonstrate that her pregnancy played a part in [Swift's] decision to dismiss her.'
Stunning and terrifying in equal measure, dramatic images show two hungry great white sharks closing in for chunks of tuna just a few feet away from a British photographer.

Captured by underwater snapper Euan Rannachan, 36, the striking images show a shark called Keyser Soze coming right up to the camera with its mouth wide open reaching out for its meal.

And in footage reminiscent of Steven Spielberg's Jaws, a thrilling video was able to capture the fearsome shark Brutus going in for another chunk of tuna.

The fearless London-born photographer was unflinching as he managed to dive and record the video at the same time.

These stunning shots were captured at Guadalupe island off the coast of Baja California, Mexico.

The hungry shark Brutus reaches for a chunk of tuna off Guadalupe Island, Mexico

The hungry great white sharks were snapped by a British photographer as they fed on Tuna

Guadalupe Island, Mexico is an island that has regular sightings of these great white sharks that can weigh anywhere between 1,500 - 4,000 pounds.

The island, which is a migration path for elephants and fur seals, has become a regular place of visit for these sharks, which can reach 21 feet in length.

These images were captured by filmmaker and photographer Euan with a Nikon D850 in a Aquatech water housing, which protects and secures camera and other equipment underwater.

'In the photos you can see a shark called Keyser Soze spinning around and going for a chunk of tuna at the surface just feet from me,' said Euan.

'In the video you can see Brutus going for another chunk of tuna.

'I was taking photos of this as well as running my GoPro.

'These full mouth shots don't happen very often so being in the right place at the right time is something indescribable.'

While these sharks were lured with chunks of tuna, a fish they would hunt in the wild, the huge creatures could easily snap up much larger morsels.

Unfortunately for Euan, and other shark enthusiasts who use diving cages to view the animals, the Mexican government recently decided to ban the practice.

A bit close for comfort: The striking images were captured by London-born filmmaker and photographer Euan Rannachan with a Nikon D850 in a Aquatech water housing

Terrifying and striking images show a great white shark called Keyser Soze with its mouth wide open

From January 10, 'all tourism activities, and film and TV productions at Isla Guadalupe' have been banned, it announced at the start of the year.

It came after two decades of film crews flocking to the popular shark viewing site.

Now campaigners, including Euan, are urging the government to change its mind.

'To date the cage diving boats have been the most practical means of monitoring, allowing constant cost-effective access to independent observers and researchers,' the BeAShark group says on its website.

A chunk of tuna appears to be dangled in the water for Brutus the shark, who clamps his jaws around it before moving towards photographer Euan

Going in for the kill: The huge beast can be seen snapping up chunks of tuna in the striking portraits

However, Mexican authorities highlighted two events where sharks had been seriously injured and died after getting stuck in the bars of a diving cage, saying these instances demonstrate how the practice can put the creatures at risk.

Since 1996, white sharks have been listed as vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature's (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species.

They are not, however, considered an endangered species under the Endangered Species Act in the US.

While the white shark is estimated to be increasing in abundance in the Northeast Pacific and Indian Ocean, it is declining in abundance from historic levels in the Northwest Atlantic and South Pacific, according to the IUCN.

Great white sharks: Feared predators of the deep Great white sharks have such a strong sense of smell that they can detect a colony of seals two miles away

Great whites give birth to up to ten 'pups' but mothers will eat them if they don't swim off fast enough

They swim at up to 37mph at full pelt and burst out of the water from below their prey

They attack 5-10 humans every year but usually just take a 'sample bite' out of curiosity before swimming off

Great whites can live to up to 70 years old

They are colored white underneath to make them harder to see from below with sunlight shining down

They have several rows of teeth that can number into the thousands

As their teeth fall out they are replaced by razor sharp teeth in the row behind Advertisement

Sharks can also pose a threat to humans, with recent videos showing close calls between swimmers and the beasts.

The United States recorded the most unprovoked shark bites worldwide in 2022, with 41 confirmed cases, according to the Florida Museum.

Earlier this week, footage emerged of the shocking moment a 220-pound shark sank its teeth into a snorkeller, leaving her with a grizzly six-inch wound on her side in the Maldives.

Carmen Canovas Cervello, 30, was diving at Vaavu Atoll in the island paradise nation with a pal when the eight-foot-long nurse shark lunged at her and clamped its jaws around her side.

Dramatic footage shows the creature circling the bikini-clad tourist before it suddenly turned and attacked her.

Amazingly, the woman decided to jump back in for a second dip immediately after she cleaned the wound left by the disgruntled nurse shark.

Cervello and friend Ibrahim Shafeeg, 37, an underwater photographer who captured the astonishing footage, had been swimming freely with the school of sharks for over 45 minutes before disaster struck.

Dillon Armijo in the hospital after being bitten by a shark while on vacation in Mexico

And last week, a 58-year-old surfer was in serious condition in hospital after being bitten in the leg by an eight-foot tiger shark off Honolulu, according to authorities.

And last month, a ten-year-old Colorado boy was relaxing at the beach with his family on the last day of a vacation in Cancun when a shark suddenly 'latched on' to his leg.

Dillon Armijo serious tendon and nerve damage, but vowed that he will go in the ocean again.
Chris Minns will shut down all 165 Covid mass testing clinics in NSW after realising they are costing millions and few are using them.

Australians are paying top dollar to keep the PCR test sites open three years after the pandemic began despite sluggish demand.

Maintaining 88 drive-through and 77 walk-in clinics across NSW alone costs taxpayers millions, but NSW Health has refused to reveal exactly how much.

Newly elected NSW premier Mr Minns swiftly moved to scrap them less than 48 hours after Daily Mail Australia revealed how underused they were.

He confirmed the PCR test system would be radically overhauled on May 13 to only conducts them through pathology clinics.

'I want to thank all of the healthcare staff who have worked tirelessly in testing clinics across the state to help keep the community safe during the pandemic,' Health Minister Ryan Park told Daily Mail Australia.

Bored staff at the Maroubra clinic, in Sydney's east, fiddle with their phones, call friends, and put their feet up - grateful to have something to do when a patient arrives

Premier Chris Minns said 'the time has come to close down those temporary PCR testing facilities'

How do I get a PCR test now? Anyone fearing they may have Covid is advised to rely on RAT tests to ease pressure on the healthcare system. But if you need for a PCR test, a patient will now require a GP referral - which can be received through teleheath. Once you get the referral, you will need to front up to a pathology lab in a face mask for a swab. The test will be free for 'vulnerable' Australians. Anyone else who needs a PCR for travel or other reasons will need to fork out hundreds of dollars for a test and certificate. Advertisement

'However, since January we've seen a significant reduction in demand for PCR testing driven by changes in health recommendations, testing behaviour, and increased access to rapid antigen tests.

'Over the next few weeks, we will be transitioning to a new model of Covid testing to support the current and future needs of the community.

'Our priority will be to ensure those at greater risk of severe Covid continue to be effectively diagnosed in a timely manner  as well as to ensure they have access to antiviral therapies.

'To that end, PCR testing requested by a medical or nurse practitioner would continue to be available at pathology collection centres, funded through the Medicare Benefits Scheme.'

Chief health officer Kerry Chant said rapid tests were the most convenient and appropriate test for most people.

PCR testing was important for those most at risk of severe Covid and as recommend by treating clinicians.

'PCR testing requested by a medical or nurse practitioner will continue to be available at private pathology services with a referral form,' Dr Chant said.

'This will ensure effective, fast diagnosis so those who are most at risk are able to get timely access to antiviral therapies.'

The new regime will force NSW residents to get a GP referral should they feel the need for a PCR test, instead of just showing up at a clinic.

Once they get the referral, which could be obtained through telehealth, they will need to front up to a pathology lab in a mask and get their Covid test.

This test would only be free for those in a 'vulnerable group', with others encouraged to rely on rapid tests.

Anyone else who needed a PCR for travel or other reasons would need to fork out hundreds of dollars for a test and certificate.

Workers at Histopath Pathology drive-through clinic in Merrylands, Sydney amuse themselves waiting for patients to arrive

A once-bustling Covid drive-through testing clinic in Maroubra is now empty with less than 100 showing up a day

What other states will do with their deserted clinics remains unclear.

Victoria, the hardest-hit state by the pandemic, only has 13 drive-through clinics left but more walk-in sites than NSW.

Mr Minns said the time had come to close down the PCR mass testing facilities, which were supposed to be temporary.

'They're temporary facilities. They're not meant to be permanent,' he said on Tuesday while mulling over what to do about them.

'We travelled past one on the way to come to this press conference in Fairfield and it was empty.'

He admitted 'a lot of money' was being spent on maintaining the testing centres, which were largely no longer required as pandemic-related restrictions were wound back, he said.

Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said earlier on Tuesday said the government had been prompted to review the clinics and their viability now that the huge queues and maddening waits of two years ago have long gone.

Instead, bored staff now fiddle with their phones and put their feet up, waiting patiently for someone - anyone - to turn up and get a swab.

A health worker sits waiting for someone to arrive for testing in Brighton-Le-Sands, Sydney

A patient rolls up for a PCR test, finally giving the worker something to do

At the height of the outbreak, the specialist drive-through and walk-in PCR test sites had queues hours long - now anything more than 100 people would be a busy day.

Huge white shelters are still planted in car parks as cars trickle through, rarely encountering a delay before a medical worker walks up.

The rest of the time, two or three bored staff watch their phones or call friends - grateful to have something to do when a patient arrives.

Mr Mookhey said he drove past the testing site Maroubra, in Sydney's eastern suburbs, and 'there was no one there'.

Staff at that clinic told Daily Mail Australia they usually had 50 to 100 show up a day during the 7am to 4pm opening hours, with about 95 on Wednesday.

Unlike during the Omicron outbreak, when there was no lockdown but plenty of cases, there was no pre- and post-work rush.

'They just come one at a time, or sometimes a few - it's really random. There's fewer today, maybe 50-something so far,' one said at lunch on Thursday.

The turn up today is a far cry from the height of the pandemic when there were hours long waits (a drive-in clinic in Sydney's pictured during the height of the Covid crisis)

A nurse is pictured preparing a PCR test for passengers departing Sydney Airport during the height of the Covid pandemic

Mr Mookhey said NSW Health advised demand was obviously not as strong as it once was.

'We're putting them through some strict scrutiny now, we're getting the health advice,' he said on 2GB radio on Tuesday.

'We have to make sure that every dollar the value is spending is getting value.'

The treasurer noted the government needed to make savings to fix an almost $80 billion budget hole, and more nurses were needed in hospitals.

Another clinic in southern Sydney had four cars arrive in the space of half an hour, with a worker saying there was usually less than 100 a day.

'It's not many compared to what it used to be,' staff said, having conducted 40 to 50 tests by early Thursday afternoon.

The Merrylands clinic is completely empty with only the occasional trickle of people arriving for testing

Staff at Covid test clinics had no idea how long they would continue operating

NSW Health stopped counting tests in its weekly updates after February 3, when there were 41,747 combined PCR and rapid tests over the previous week.

How many were conducted at testing sites is not known and NSW Health failed to provide the figure when asked by Daily Mail Australia.

Senior ministerial staffers are understood to be surprised so many of the clinics are still operating more than three years after the pandemic began.

The previous government shut down many of them last October, but left the current sites operating despite dwindling use.

At the height of the outbreak, the specialist drive-through and walk-in PCR test sites had queues hours long. Now they are white elephants

So few people come to this test site in Bankstown, western Sydney, that there are no staff at the front, having all retreated inside

4Cyte drive-through clinic in North Ryde, in Sydney's north, has nothing but empty chairs

A well-placed source in the previous government said there was no reason to have the clinics open anymore and patients could get a PCR test at a GP or hospital.

'We need the nurses elsewhere and they are costing us a fortune,' they said.

The source said the clinics were only kept open because the Coalition feared political backlash from sections of the population ahead of the March 25 election.

Operation of the clinics is largely outsourced to private companies, but the staff are spending much of their day idle during a serious nursing shortage.

There is a forecast shortfall of 20,000 to 40,000 nursing positions by 2025 that the new government hopes it can fix with higher pay and a huge recruiting drive.

Anyone who fears they have contracted Covid will now need to visit a pathology lab after receiving a GP refereal
Twitter CEO Elon Musk has come under fire for flagging the accounts of NPR, PBS and other western media outlets as 'government funded' while giving those run by some of the world's harshest dictatorships a free pass.

Experts at Freedom House and PEN America, which promote free speech and human rights, told DailyMail.com that new Twitter warnings about state-controlled media were not being applied fairly.

They pointed to the accounts of media outlets run by the autocratic governments of Turkey, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar that do not carry the social media platform's new content alert.

'Under Musk's leadership, Twitter's policies have become erratic and seemingly arbitrary, which undermines user trust,' said Liz Woolery, who heads digital policy for PEN America.

'Inconsistent policy changes regarding media labeling undermine trust not just in Twitter, but in credible news institutions as well.'

Twitter boss Elon Musk has started tagging the accounts of global media outlets that are 'government-funded' or 'state-affiliated'

NPR gets Twitter's 'government-funded' tag, but Turkey's government mouthpiece TRT World does not

Under Musk's new policies, Twitter has started adding labels such as 'government-funded media' or 'state-affiliated media' so users can put an organization's tweets in context, and alert them to political bias.

This has been largely uncontroversial for the accounts of Russia's RT and China's Xinhua News Agency, which pump out content that advances those two nation's foreign policy goals.

But flagging the accounts of western media outlets has been controversial.

The Canadian Broadcasting Corp (CBC) on Tuesday said it would halt its activities on Twitter in protest over its new 'government-funded media' label.

Twitter was also criticized for flagging America's National Public Radio (NPR) and its Public Broadcasting Service (PBS), as well as Britain's flagship brand, the BBC.

Those outlets say they're editorially independent, whereas the tag implies government control over content.

More interesting is how the Twitter accounts of several outlets in Middle Eastern dictatorships have not been tagged, even when users could benefit from a content advisory.

UAE vice president and media magnate Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed

Among them is TRT World, a publicly-funded Turkish online and television news.

The outlet's Twitter account has not been tagged, even though it's widely seen as a mouthpiece for strongman President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's administration.

Likewise, Twitter doesn't flag the account of UAE-based newspaper The National, which is owned by the federation's vice president Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The National presents itself as editorially independent, but journalists working there say stories are tightly screened to promote UAE interests, and increasingly also those of Russia and China.

The State Media Monitor, a global research group, calls the Abu Dhabi-based newspaper 'state managed.'

The same goes for accounts of state-affiliated media outlets in neighboring Saudi Arabia, which under de facto ruler Mohammed bin Salman has become one of the world's most repressive governments.

Al Arabiya, Asharq Al-Awsat, Arab News, and other Saudi outlets have dodged Twitter's 'state-affiliated' tag, despite being ranked as 'state captured' by the media watchdog.

Editors at the Qatar-based television news channel Al-Jazeera work in the newsroom in Doha. Some, but not all, of the outlet's Twitter accounts carry the 'government-funded' tag

Twitter has been quizzed about why it removed the 'state-affiliated media' label from the profile of Abu Dhabis The National newspaper earlier this year

Qatar's Al Jazeera network is another example. It is state controlled and seldom criticizes the royal multi-billionaires who run the tiny peninsular, but nevertheless has a degree of editorial independence.

The Twitter account for Al Jazeera English is tagged as 'government-funded' but the outlet's 'breaking news' handle is not.

Kian Vesteinsson, a senior researcher at Freedom House, voiced support for flagging government-linked accounts because it helped users 'understand what information is reliable.'

But Vesteinsson also warned against using those labels 'incorrectly' and conflating publically-funded outlets 'with those that have their editorial positions directed by the state.'

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan

'It's critical that Twitter and other platforms ensure that their labeling is accurate and applied consistently, and that people on the platform can access information about how and why labels are applied,' Vesteinsson told DailyMail.com.

Twitter did not answer our requests for comment. The platform says the new labels are to provide more transparency about who funds accounts that provide news and commentary.

The tags are 'state-affiliated media' and 'publicly-funded media', with the 'government-funded' designation being applied where 'the government provides some or all of the outlet's funding,' Twitter says.

Twitter goes on to say the label means 'governments may have varying degrees of government involvement over editorial content'.

After initially labelling Britain's BBC as 'Government-funded' Twitter backed down and changed the description to 'publicly-funded'.

'I know the BBC's, for example, not thrilled about being labelled state-affiliated media,' Twitter CEO Elon Musk said in a recent interview.

However, for NPR, which has a mix of public and private funding, Twitter has not changed the label which led to the station leaving the platform.
A major US nursing group has warned of a 'crisis of huge proportions' after the sector lost 100,000 nurses during the pandemic and a total of 900,000 will be gone by 2027.

The National Council of State Boards of Nursing surveyed 29,472 registered nurses (RNs) across 45 states and found many complained of feeling 'burned out,' 'fatigued,' or at the 'end of the rope,' often during every shift.

Roughly 100,000 nurses left these past two years due to retirement, stress and burnout during the pandemic, and another 610,000 plan to exit by 2027 for the same reasons, researchers found.

Even more worrying than that huge dent in the workforce is the 188,962 other nurses aged 40 years and younger who also plan to quit in the next four years, despite only qualifying relatively recently.

The survey comes after a year that saw six unions representing some 32,000 nurses launch strikes around the country, and as health foundations throw millions of dollars to prop up the hemorrhaging sector.

The National Council of State Boards of Nursing surveyed 29,472 registered nurses (RNs) across 45 states and found many complained of feeling 'burned out,' 'fatigued,' or even at the 'end of the rope'

Nurses complained of burnout during the pandemic, but many of the problems linger and hundreds of thousands are planning their exit from the profession

Maryann Alexander, the council's chief officer of nursing regulation, warned of a 'crisis of huge proportions.'

'The pandemic has stressed nurses to leave the workforce and has expedited an intent to leave in the near future, which will become a greater crisis and threaten patient populations if solutions are not enacted immediately,' said Alexander.

She urged health care systems, policymakers, regulators, and academics to knock their heads together and 'enact solutions' that staunch the exodus and keep nurses on wards into the future.

Researchers uncovered 'unprecedented levels of burnout' among nurses who pulled overtime during the pandemic, when hospitals overflowed with patients and body bags were heaped into refrigerated trucks outside.

Nearly two thirds of nurses said their workload increased at that time. Nowadays, about half of them felt being 'emotionally drained' or 'used up' either every day or at least a few times each working week.

Nurses with less than a decade of experience were especially struggling, researchers found. Relative newcomers who had quit accounted for a 3.3 percent drop in the workforce these past two years.

Maryann Alexander, the council's chief officer of nursing regulation, warned of a 'crisis of huge proportions'

Likewise, licensed practical and vocational nurses, who typically staff long-term care settings, have been among the fastest out of the door, with 33,811 leaving the profession since the onset of the pandemic.

The exodus of experienced nurses, together with the lack of skills among fresh graduates of nursing courses, are a wake-up call for 'significant action to foster a more resilient and safe US nursing workforce,' the council said in a statement.

Problems have been mounting at hospitals across the nation as they try to deal with widespread staffing shortages, overworked nurses beaten down by the pandemic and a busted pipeline of new nurses.

Some of the nations largest hospital systems including Providence and Advocate Health are using apps similar to ride-hailing technology to attract hard-to-find nurses, according to The Wall Street Journal.

An app from ShiftKey lets workers bid for shifts. Another, CareRev, helps hospitals adjust pay to match supply, lowering rates for popular shifts and raising them to entice nurses to work overnight or holidays.

Last year, six unions representing 32,000 nurses launched strikes outside of hospital systems, according to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics. Those strikes represented about a quarter of all the major strikes in the US last year, an increase from the year before.

Emergency Room nurses and EMTs tend to patients in hallways at the Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital in August 2021, when an upsurge in the COVID-19 cases overwhelmed staff

Nursing staff for hire at the Good Samaritan Society nursing home in Loveland, Colorado

The sector has been battered by a series of strikes, including these nurses in New York City in January, who wanted better work conditions, equality in healthcare and work safety

The Department of Health and Human Services last year found that over half of nurses were over the age of 50, a much higher percentage compared with the overall US labor workforce, where only a quarter of people are 55 or older.

Aspiring nurses are lining up to replace retirees, but widespread faculty shortages at nursing colleges have hurt nursing schools.

In 2021, nearly 92,000 qualified nursing school applicants were denied entry into a program, largely because of a shortage of educators, said the American Association of Colleges of Nursing.

California-based nurse Peter Sidhu left his job in an intensive care unit when a third COVID wave struck, after being among the first to volunteer for the coronavirus unit when the pandemic arrived.

He's noticed a cultural shift in the profession. Fewer nurses want to work 12-hour shifts, multiple days a week. Many are taking jobs at clinics, where weekend or overnight shifts aren't required.

Others have moved to jobs in telehealth, working from the comfort of their home. Some are simply burnt out from working in a hospital, he told AP recently.

'Prior to the pandemic, I knew every once in a while, I'm going to have a bad night,' said Sidhu, now the executive vice president of United Nurses Associations of California/Union of Health Care Professionals.

'Now, every time you walk into the facility, you're not just worried about what patients you're going to have  now you have four (patients) and you know you're not going to have resources.'

Wires contributed to this report.
Two men claiming to be Russian unit commanders from the Wagner mercenary group have confessed to killing children, women and pensioners in Vladimir Putin's war with Ukraine.

The chilling videos see the pair recounting the alleged executions of more than 20 Ukrainian children and teenagers, and the blowing up a pit in which more than 50 wounded Ukrainian prisoners had been dumped.

Others killed included those who refused to fight in Putin's war, they said.

The pair - who say they were enlisted convicts pardoned by Putin in August after completing six months with Wagner - admitted that while acting on orders they 'killed everyone - women, men, pensioners and children.'

They alleged that the head of Wagner - Yevgeny Prigozhin, nicknamed Putin's 'chef' - personally gave orders for executions and murders.

The chilling videos see the two men - Alexei Savichev (left) and Azamat Uldarov (right) recounting the alleged executions of more than 20 Ukrainian children and teenagers, and the blowing up a pit in which more than 50 wounded Ukrainian prisoners had been dumped

One of the two commanders named Azamat Uldarov said that he had killed a five-year-old child by order.

READ MORE: Is Wagner behind the bloodshed in Sudan? Mercenaries accused of plundering Sudanese gold worth billions have ties to rogue general now waging war on the junta Advertisement

He revealed he has shot head a girl as young as five in the head, in the confession to an exiled Russian human rights group called gulagu.net

He said: 'She was squealing, she was a small child, you understand?

'She was five or six years old, and I shot, do you understand, the control shot, because I wasn't supposed to release anyone. This was the command.'

He explained: 'We are killing each other, and I've no idea what for. I simply can't understand. I want to cry. But I won't be crying, I am so tired, I've been crying for the second day

'If I tell you the full truth about what's happening there, your hair will stand on end.'

He spoke of grotesque atrocities in Soledar and Bakhmut. The battle for the eastern city of Bakhmut has seen the most bloody fighting of the war to date, with Wagner heavily involved in Russia's attempts to seize control.

The village of Soledar nearby was captured earlier this year, with Wagner's leader drawing the ire of the Kremlin by claiming his troops were solely responsible.

'We were given the command to 'clean up' and destroy everyone,' Uldarov said.

'We arrived with the last batch of Wagnerites, 150 people. And we were commanded to destroy on the way on our own and stand on the defensive by any means. We went and killed everyone.

'There were women, men, grandfathers, pensioners, and children,' he said.

The other commander Alexei Savichev said that after a visit by journalists he and another comrade were ordered to slaughter civilians.

He knew of at least 70 executions of Russians by Russians, he said.

They were killed for refusing to fight or refusing to murder civilians, he claimed.

'Civilians were leaving. And there was an order: everyone who is 15 [years old] and above - all at once to be shot without a word,' he claimed.

'20 to 24 people were shot, of which 10 people were 15-year-olds and 17-year-old teenagers. How many were shot? Maybe 24 people, maybe 20.'

He said they were forced to 'follow orders' fearing they could be thrown back in jail if not. If they told journalists of the atrocities, a commander told them they would 'instantly be wasted', he said.

The two men who confessed are reported to be in Russia now which - if true - puts them in jeopardy of jail or worse.

The pair alleged that the head of Wagner - Yevgeny Prigozhin, nicknamed Putin's 'chef' (pictured earlier this month) - personally gave orders for executions and murders. Wagner mercenaries admit to killing women and children

Smoke is seen in this drone footage of Bakhmut amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in this screen grab obtained from a handout video released on April 15

In November, Russian inmate-turned Wagner fighter Yevgeny Nuzhin - who changed sides in the Ukraine war - was executed with a sledgehammer in a harrowing video that circulated online. Prigozhin described Nuzhin as a traitor, with the close ally of Putin saying a 'dog receives a dog's death' in response to the clip.

A second Wagner deserter - Dmitry Yakushchenko - was killed in the same way in February this year. His death was seen in a second, equally horrific video.

The head of the human rights group Gulagu, Vladimir Osechkin, said: 'Azamat and Alexei are in Russia, 100 per cent they are not under any influence of the SBU [Ukrainian intelligence] or CIA, or somebody else.'

He believes their 'chilling details of the execution of more than 20 Ukrainian children and teenagers [and] the explosion of a pit with more than 50 wounded prisoners' amounts to compelling evidence of war crimes.

As does the killing of war refuseniks and the 'cleansing' of residential buildings - 'killing everyone, including children'.

Savichev said that in Bakhmut in January 'near the barracks, past the jam factory' - he had been ordered to throw grenades into a hole full of dozens of wounded and dead, and then burn the bodies with petrol and diesel.

The dead were Russian and Ukrainian.

'I carried out the order and left,' he said.

'Both ex-commanders of the Wagner PMC units said that Yevgeny Prigozhin personally gave criminal orders for the executions and murders, and also approved of terrorist methods and cruelty'.

Commenting on a notorious video of the beheading of a military man, he said that it was 'nonsense' compared to what happened in the background of this.

Asked how many shots he saw, Savichev said: 'I will tell the truth. I don't want to deceive you, or myself. About 70 people were shot.'

Among the executed were prisoners from a correctional colony in Russia's Voronezh region, he said.

Uldatov spoke of his motives for revealing the details.

Pictured: Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin is seen with fighters in a February video, in which he claimed that his mercenaries had captured to town of Soledar

Pictured: A soldier is seen through the window of the PMC Wagner Centre during the official opening of the office block in Saint Petersburg, Russia, November 4

'I want to punish everyone. I want Russia and other states to know the truth. I don't want war, I don't want bloodshed,' he said.

'Do you see me holding a cigarette in my hand? I carried out the order with this hand, killed the children. Understand? By order.

'What we did when we went to Soledar and Bakhmut, that was the scene. We were given the command to clean up and to kill everyone.'

He was asked: 'Who gave such orders?'

He replied: 'Starting from the top. I had [commander] Korshun. [inaudible].

'This is the first commander. Then Korshun. Above them is [Yevgeny] Prigozhin, who told us not to let anyone out, to kill everyone.'

Uldarov - who was in tears - said he took part in a massacre of civilians on 18 March in Bakhmut.

'There were around 300, including around 40 kids,' he said. 'We were given the order to kill everyone. It was in the basement of a nine-story block of flats. The order came down from Prigozhin,' he said. 'No prisoners.'

'We're people from the same religion.I don't understand what we were killing each other for.'

Empty coffins were sent back to Russia because there was nothing left of some casualties, he said.

Prigozhin labelled Osechkin a 'maniac and degenerate'.

'About shootings of children - of course nobody ever shoots civilians or children, nobody needs it at all,' he said in response to the confessions.

'We went there to save them from the regime they were under.' He added on video: 'We have never touched [children] and do not touch. This is a gross lie.'

One of those allegedly killed by the ex-unit commanders was still alive, he said.

Pictured: Vladimir Osechkin, Russian human rights activist and a founder of Gulagu.net. Upon his human rights organisation releasing the confessions, he said he had no reason to believe that the pair were under the influence of Russian security services

The confessions from the two Wagner mercenaries is by no means the first time horrific Russian war crimes have been reported on.

Within the first month of the war, reports were already coming out of Ukraine of Russian soldiers executing civilians, with Kyiv accusing Moscow of genocide.

National headlines carried news about several civilians were killed in the Kyiv suburb of Bucha, revealed after Russian forces withdrew from the area in March 2022.

Hundreds of corpses were found in the town, including some with their hands bound behind their backs and apparently executed.
Greggs is preparing to take Westminster Council to court after it was banned from selling late night hot food at its flagship Leicester Square store.

The bakery chain was denied permission to sell hot food 24 hours a day last year after police claimed it could lead to a wave of 'crime and disorder' in its West End branch.

The Newcastle-based company is currently in 'mediation talks' with Westminster Council but is set to appeal the ban at a three-day court hearing between May 16 to 18.

Food that is sold hot requires a licence to be sold between 11pm and 5am.

This is due to the belief that outlets selling hot food - such as takeaways - are more likely to attract 'alcohol-fuelled crime and disorder'.

Drag queen Pasty Kween attends the opening of Greggs' flagship Leicester Square store last July

Greggs' sausage rolls and pasties do not technically qualify as hot food as they are sold in an unheated cabinet, so can be sold throughout the night.

But other items that are kept heated, such as chicken goujons and potato wedges, are counted as hot food so cannot be sold at night without a licence.

READ MORE: Unhealthiest breakfasts on the high street revealed Advertisement

Greggs' Leicester Square outlet opened to much fanfare last summer with an opening event modelled on a glitzy film premiere.

However, plans for it to serve hot food around the clock led to complaints from the Met, Environmental Health, three local Westminster councillors and one resident.

'It is our belief that if granted, the application could undermine the licensing objectives in relation to the prevention of crime and disorder,' the Met said in its application.

In response Greggs warned its customers could become 'confused' by the limited menu options post-11pm, which could spark further trouble.

In addition to using CCTV cameras and employing security to man the doors, Greggs also pledged to clamp down on any excess waste building up outside the bakery.

Westminster Council said its licensing committee 'refused to grant the application on policy grounds' because Greggs had 'failed to demonstrate exceptional reasons as to why the application would not have a negative impact on the West End'.

The bakery chain was denied permission to sell hot food 24 hours a day last year after police claimed it could lead to a wave of 'crime and disorder' in its West End branch

The council added: 'Greggs would need to try to convince the court that their evidence provides exceptional reasons for allowing the Premises to operate until 5am, despite being located in a cumulative impact zone.'

The flagship branch, which has a floor space of 1,560 sq ft (145 sq m), is located next to M&Ms World and opposite the Lego Store in the heart of London's West End. It was previously a branch of the Turkish bakery chain Simit Sarayi.

The Newcastle-based company has been focusing on opening stores in prime areas of London over the past few years, with the new outlet following shops on The Strand, Canary Wharf, Paddington, St Pancras and Kings Cross.

The bakery chain is set to open 150 new stores in Britain over the next year which will take the total to nearly 2,500  but the flagship at 1 Leicester Square has quickly established itself as its most prestigious.
China's defence minister has congratulated Russian President Vladimir Putin for 'promoting world peace,' highlighting the close bond between the two nations more than a year after the war broke out in Ukraine.

A clip posted on the Chinese company NetEase Inc.'s short-video platform appears to show Li Shangfu reading prepared remarks in a meeting with Putin and Russia's defence minister Sergei Shoigu on Sunday.

Shangfu called Putin 'an extraordinary state leader,' noting his 'important contributions to promoting world peace and development'.

His trip to Russia is the first by a Chinese defence minister since the war began.

The comments sit in stark contrast to the line taken by the US and its allies, which have implemented sweeping sanctions on Russia as they look to isolate Putin.

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chinese Defence Minister Li Shangfu attend a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, Russia, on April 16, 2023

Ukrainian soldiers of the 80th brigade firing artillery in the direction of Bakhmut as the Russia-Ukraine war continues in Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine, on April 13, 2023

Top diplomats from the Group of Seven leading industrial nations today criticised 'Russian aggression' and vowed to continue 'supporting Ukraine as long as it takes'.

The remarks were not included in Chinese state media's reporting on the meeting or in the official Kremlin readout.

China has been Russia's biggest supporter since the start of the invasion on February 24 last year.

China's President Xi Jinping visited Moscow in March and has spoken to Putin numerous times on the phone since the war began.

Xi said 'China highly values the relationship with Russia' during his visit.

In February, China presented a 12-point position paper on the war, which includes a call for dialogue and respect for all countries' territorial sovereignty.

In the 12-point plan, Beijing called for an end to Western sanctions, negotiations that would likely see Ukraine ceding territory, a NATO pull-back from its eastern borders, and reconstruction efforts that would likely benefit Chinese contractors.

Its call for a cease-fire was met with doubt from Kyiv, the US and Ukraine's other supporters.

Xi has not held talks with Ukraine's leader Volodymyr Zelensky since the start of the war, though there were reports around the time of his state visit to Moscow that a call had been planned.

Shangfu held formal talks with Shoigu on Tuesday and both agreed to continue close high-level communications, as well as improving the mechanism for interactions between the two militaries.

During the meeting in Moscow, the two sides reaffirmed their support for each other in safeguarding their core interests, and resolutely opposed interference in internal affairs by external forces, according to a statement posted on China's defence ministry website.

In the meeting with Shangfu on Sunday, Putin praised the exchange of intelligence and joint manoeuvres in the Far East and Europe, the Interfax news service reported.

Shangfu said China was willing to 'further strengthen strategic communication between the two militaries' according to state broadcaster China Central Television.

Russian President Vladimir Putin shakes hands with Chinese Defence Minister Li Shangfu during a meeting in Moscow, Russia, on April 16, 2023

Ukrainian artillery fires towards the frontline during heavy fighting amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, near Bakhmut, Ukraine, on April 13, 2023

Shangfu said China was prepared to bolster multilateral coordination and cooperation with Russia, according to state-run CCTV news.

'China is willing to work with Russia to make new contributions to the maintenance of world and regional security and stability,' Shangfu said, according to the report.

He said ties between China and Russia 'surpass the military-political alliances of the cold war era', in translated remarks broadcast on Russian TV.

'This is my first overseas visit since taking over as China's defence minister. I specifically chose Russia for this in order to emphasise the special nature and strategic importance of our bilateral ties,' Shangfu said.

After the meeting, also attended by Shoigu, Putin and Shangfu spoke of the military cooperation between the two nations, which have declared a 'no limits' partnership.

Video footage of the meeting showed Putin shaking hands with Shangfu and then sitting down at a table.

'We are working actively through our military departments, regularly exchange useful information, work together in the field of military-technical cooperation, and hold joint exercises,' Putin said.

He said the exercises had been held in the Far East as well as Europe and spanned ground, naval and air forces.

'Undoubtedly, this is another crucial area that strengthens the extremely trusting, strategic nature of our relations,' Putin said.

Moscow and Beijing have closely aligned their policies in attempt to reshape the world order and diminish the influence of the United States and its Western allies.

China has refused to criticise Russia's actions in Ukraine and blamed the US and NATO for provoking Moscow.

Xi's visit to Moscow gave a strong political boost to Putin, sending a message to Western leaders that their efforts to isolate Russia have fallen short.

Pictured: Chinese leader Xi Jinping (file Photo). Shangfu's trip follows last month's three-day state visit to the Russian capital by Xi, reflecting China's strengthening engagement with Russia

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu meet with Chinese Defence Minister Li Shangfu at the Kremlin in Moscow on April 16, 2023

Russian President Vladimir Putin, right, speaks to China's Defence Minister Li Shangfu, left, and Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia, on April 16, 2023

After the talks, Putin and Xi issued joint declarations pledging to further bolster their 'strategic cooperation,' develop cooperation in energy, high-tech industries and other spheres and expand the use of their currencies in mutual trade to reduce dependence on the West.

After more than a year of fighting in Ukraine and bruising Western sanctions, Russia's dependence on China has increased significantly. Facing Western restrictions on its oil, gas and other exports, Russia has shifted its energy flows to China and sharply expanded other exports, resulting in a 30 per cent hike in bilateral trade.

Last month, Putin and Xi also vowed to further develop military cooperation between Moscow and Beijing and conduct more joint sea and air patrols.

However, there was no mention of any prospective Chinese weapons supplies to Russia that the US and other Western allies feared, and the Chinese foreign minister reaffirmed on Friday that Beijing wouldn't sell weapons to either side in the conflict in Ukraine.

China's defence minister on Monday toured the top Russian military academy on a visit to the Russian capital.

The Kremlin said Putin on Monday had attended a military command meeting in Ukraine's southern Kherson region and visited a national guard headquarters in eastern Luhansk.

Putin heard reports from commanders of the airborne forces and the Dnieper army group as well as other senior officers who briefed him on the situation in the Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions in the south.

Neither Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu nor Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov joined Putin on his trip as a security precaution, the Kremlin said.

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chinese Defence Minister Li Shangfu attend a meeting in Moscow, Russia, on April 18, 2023

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu (C-R) and Chinese Defence Minister General Li Shangfu (C-L) attending a meeting in Moscow, Russia, on April 18, 2023

A senior Ukrainian presidential aide, Mykhailo Podolyak, took to Twitter to mock Putin's trip.

He wrote: 'There's only a "special tour" of the mass murders author in the occupied and ruined territories to enjoy the crimes of his minions for the last time.'

Kyiv and the West accuse Russian forces of committing war crimes in occupied Ukrainian territory, which Moscow denies.

Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, Luhansk and Donetsk are the four regions that Putin proclaimed annexed last September following what Ukraine said were sham referendums. Russian forces only partly control the four regions.

Russian troops retreated from Kherson city, the regional capital, last November, and have been reinforcing their positions on the opposite bank of the Dnipro River in anticipation of a Ukrainian counteroffensive this spring.

While numerous Western leaders have made their way to Kyiv for talks with President Zelensky since Russian forces invaded 14 months ago, Putin has rarely visited parts of Ukraine under Russian control.

Last month, he visited Crimea - annexed by Russia in 2014 - and the southeastern city of Mariupol in Donetsk region.

A Russian winter offensive failed to make much progress and its troops have been bogged down in a series of battles in the east and south, where advances have been incremental and come at a huge cost to both sides.

Fighting has raged in and around Bakhmut in Donetsk region for months, with Ukrainian forces holding out despite regular claims by Russia to have taken the city.

'Currently, the enemy is increasing the activity of heavy artillery and the number of air strikes, turning the city into ruins,' the commander of Ukraine's ground forces, General Oleksandr Syrskyi, said on Tuesday.

Chinese Defence Minister Li Shangfu signs a guest book as he visits the Military Academy of the General Staff of Russia's Armed Forces in Moscow, Russia, on April 17, 2023

Bakhmut's capture could provide a stepping stone for Russia to advance on two bigger cities it has long coveted in the Donetsk region - Kramatorsk and Sloviansk.

The head of the Wagner mercenary group, which has spearheaded Russia's attempt to take Bakhmut, said this month that its fighters controlled more than 80 per cent of the city. Ukraine's military has denied this.

Russia says its 'special military operation' in Ukraine was necessary to protect its security against what it sees as a hostile and aggressive West.

Ukraine and its Western allies say Russia is waging an unprovoked war aimed at grabbing territory.

On his visit to Avdiivka on Tuesday, Zelensky's office said he had handed out awards to his troops, telling them: 'I have the honour to be here today, to thank you for your service, for defending our land, Ukraine, our families.'

A meeting of Group of Seven foreign ministers in Japan condemned on Tuesday a Russian plan to station shorter-range, so-called tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus, a Moscow ally which borders Ukraine.

In a communique at the end of a three-day meeting in Japan, G7 foreign ministers said: 'Russia's irresponsible nuclear rhetoric and its threat to deploy nuclear weapons in Belarus are unacceptable.'

'Any use of chemical, biological or nuclear weapons by Russia would be met with severe consequences,' they said.

The G7 groups the United States, Japan, Germany, Britain, France, Italy and Canada, which have all imposed economic sanctions on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine.

A Ukrainian tank performs during firing practice amid the war on the frontline of Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine, on March 29, 2023

The war in Ukraine has killed tens of thousands of people, levelled cities, forced millions from their homes and shaken up the global security order, including by prompting Russia to strengthen ties with non-Western actors, especially China.

Meanwhile, the Japanese defence ministry said it had scrambled a jet fighter in response to what it said were Russian aircraft gathering information overseas near Japan.

Earlier, Russia said two of its strategic bombers - which are capable of carrying nuclear warheads - had conducted patrol flights over the Sea of Okhotsk and the Bering Sea in Russia's Far East.

Putin on Monday hailed the military's performance during massive naval drills that have involved the entire Russian Pacific Fleet - a show of force amid the tensions with the West over the fighting in Ukraine.

Shoigu reported to Putin that the exercise that began on Friday involves 167 warships, including 12 submarines, 89 aircraft and 25,000 troops.

As part of the drills, Russia's nuclear-capable long-range strategic bombers will 'fly over the central part of the Pacific Ocean to imitate strikes against groups of enemy ships,' Shoigu said.

Speaking during Monday's meeting with Shoigu, Putin praised the navy's 'high level' performance and said that similar drills should be held in other areas.

The Defence Ministry has declared that sectors in the southern part of the Sea of Okhotsk, the Peter the Great Bay of the Sea of Japan and the Avacha Bay on the southeastern coast of the Kamchatka Peninsula would be closed to sea and air traffic for the duration of practice torpedo and missile launches and artillery exercises.

The ministry said that the drills were intended to 'test the Pacific Fleet's readiness to repel aggression'.

The ministry described the briefing as a show of Russia's 'voluntary transparency'.

The Russian military has concentrated the bulk of its forces on the front lines in Ukraine, but has also continued conducting regular drills across Russia to train its forces and demonstrate their readiness.

The Pacific Fleet drills started just before Shangfu arrived in Russia on Sunday and met with Putin.

On Friday, Shoigu noted that the scenario for the manoeuvres envisages a response to an adversary's attempt to make a landing on Sakhalin Island and the southern Kuril Islands.

Japan asserts territorial rights to the Kuril Islands, which it calls the Northern Territories.

The Soviet Union took them in the final days of World War II, and the dispute has kept the countries from signing a peace treaty formally ending their hostilities.

Last year, Russia announced it had suspended peace talks with Japan to protest Tokyo's sanctions against Moscow over its action in Ukraine.

Russia has built up its military presence on the islands in recent years, deploying advanced fighter jets, anti-ship missiles and air defence systems there.
A sex worker who was jailed for infecting a client with HIV is fighting to stop her deportation from Australia to New Zealand.

Clayton Palmer, who is transgender, was convicted in the Western Australia District Court in 2018 of one count of grievous bodily harm in relation to having sex with a client.

The man was infected with HIV in the encounter despite Palmer knowing she was HIV positive.

At the time, Palmer was sentenced to six years' imprisonment which was reduced to four years on appeal.

She had been an Australian resident since 2006 but her visa was subject to mandatory cancellation because of her criminal record.

Clayton Palmer (pictured), a sex worker who was jailed for infecting a client with HIV, is fighting to stop being permanently deported to New Zealand

Palmer's deportation from Australia to New Zealand was confirmed after a decision from the federal government to cancel her visa.

Lawyers for Palmer from the HIV/Aids Legal Centre fronted the Federal Court in Sydney on Tuesday in a bid to overturn the decision.

Palmer's counsel Bora Kaplan argued that she had difficulty coming to terms with her diagnosis at the time of offending but was on medication which reduced her chances of infecting a partner.

'The evidence before the (immigration) minister was quite clear in my respectful submission, and it was the Ms Palmer had consistently taken her medication since 2016,' Mr Kaplan said.

'Importantly, even during those times that she had relapsed into illicit drug use ... there was nothing to suggest that there was a risk that she would stop taking that medication going forward.

'The evidence established that HIV cannot be transmitted from A to B, if A has an undetectable viral load as Palmer did.'

Clayton Palmer (under the blanket) is pictured at Perth International Airport in 2018

However, Mr Kaplan did admit that Ms Palmer's initial reaction to being diagnosed was one of denial.

'The only reason is not to be defended by the respondent is the second of those reasons that I identified in paragraph 30,' he said.

'That is that prior to commencing treatment, Ms Palmer was in denial about her diagnosis, took drugs and was reckless in her approach to her own sexual health and that of her sexual partners.'

Palmer previously told a tribunal she wanted to stay in Australia and maintain her connections to communities including people with HIV, transgender people and sex workers.

The hearing has been adjourned.
Southwest Airlines planes were grounded for more than an hour Tuesday due to a technical issue with the carrier's firewall systems - leading to more than 1,900 delays and several cancellations.

The nationwide stop started about 9:45am and persisted for more than an hour, causing a flood of frustrated travelers to lash out at the embattled carrier on social media.

For roughly an hour and a half, captains assured customers their planes would soon take off and were grounded due to software malfunction - while an explanation from a company rep said the disruptions stemmed from 'intermittent technology issues.'

The Federal Aviation Administration eventually lifted the pause at 11:10am, revealing the order was issued at the airlines request while staffers worked to resolve 'data connection issues resulting from a firewall failure.'

The statement, however, provided little insight as to what actually caused the cross-country grounding, the affects of which are still being seen.

According to data provided by the flight tracker FlightAware, 1,982 Southwest flights are still experiencing delays, four months after a similar system outage saw more than 16,000 Southwest flights cancelled.

Scroll down for video:

Southwest Airlines planes were grounded for more than an hour Tuesday due to a technical issue with the carrier's firewall systems - leading to more than 1,900 delays and cancellations

The nationwide stop started about 9:45am and persisted for more than an hour, with a flood of frustrated travelers chronicling their experiences on social media

At 11:10am - after roughly an hour and a half - the FAA lifted the pause - writing in a vague statement that Southwest had 'experienced a technical issue' with one of its systems

A vague statement from the airline sent around 11:30am said that operations had now resumed as normal - after all were put on pause to fix an alleged issue with its firewall system

Following the FAA's statement - which was posted to the agency's social media at 11:10am - Southwest later confirmed the malfunction stemmed from its firewall system, saying staffers worked relentlessly to fix the 'data connection issues' during the FAA's grounding.

Shortly thereafrer, the carrier's Chief Commercial Officer, Ryan Green, pledged the company 'would do everything we can, and work day and night to repair our relationship with you'.

The statement came mere weeks after Southwest had promised to invest more than $1 billion to upgrade its IT system, following the swathe of cancellations seen in December.

But on Tuesday, as stranded travelers took to social media to question how the Texas-based company could possibly be plagued by another outage so soon, a rep attempted to explain what led to the pause

'Early this morning, a vendor-supplied firewall went down and connection to some operational data was unexpectedly lost,' a spokesperson said.

'Southwest teams worked quickly to minimize flight disruptions.'

Another more vague statement added that the airline had 'resumed operations this morning following a pause in service.'

The chaos unfolded from roughly 9:45am to 11:10am, causing grounded travelers from states ranging from Colorado to Florida to publicly air complaints after receiving little explanation from airline staffers.

In earlier tweets replying to frustrated travelers, Southwest said it 'had to implement a ground stop as a result of intermittent issues that were experienced.'

'As a result of the intermittent technology issues that we experienced, we should hopefully be resuming our operation as soon as possible,' a rep responding to the barrage of complaints added:

'We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause, but we're hoping to get everyone going ASAP.'

In another post shortly after - as customers with the recent December outages fresh in their minds continued to complain - the rep tried to quell traveler's frustrations while again apologizing.

'Technical errors are unexpected and inconvenient for all, and you have our sincere apologies,' the spokesperson wrote.

'We appreciate your feedback and assure you the appropriate Team has been made aware. Thanks for hanging in there with us!'

However, nearly an hour later, no other statement was issued, and passengers were forced to patiently wait until the FAA rescinded the order - which the agency said it dished out at Southwest's request.

While resolved, the mishap has wrought more than 1,700 delays across the country - more than 40 percent of all planned flights for the day. Seen here are the planes' flightpaths Tuesday

In earlier tweets replying to frustrated travelers left stranded on airport runways, Southwest said it 'had to implement a ground stop as a result of intermittent issues that were experienced'

Still shrouded, the problems come after a similar system outage saw more than 16,000 Southwest flights cancelled in December

'Southwest Airlines requested the FAA pause the airlines departures,' the government agency tasked with enforcing airline safety said Tuesday.

When asked about some of the consequences of the lengthy pause, the agency said that there currently is an ongoing hold in place for all flights into Dallas Love Field Airport, with similar delays at other airports also likely.

Still largely shrouded, the technical issues come just weeks after the Texas-based carrier unveiled an 'action plan' to prevent such meltdowns, after it was forced to cancel more than 16,700 flights in late December due to a system error

Customers with the recent December outages fresh in their minds were seen complaining on social media as news of the pause spread

At the time, the airline attributed the problems to changes to its staff scheduling computer systems, and promised to both the FAA and congress to make painstaking efforts to avoid another crisis.

In its recently released action plan, Southwest brass said its technical division has 'taken many weeks of work to sort through the complexity of contributing factors' that caused last year's meltdown, which came on the heels of winter storm that affected several airlines.

Southwest, however, was much slower to recover, and struggled to restart operations before the technical glitch.

Last month, the carrier said the 'root causes and lessons learned are guiding our efforts to make Southwest (LUV) better prepared to handle truly extreme winter weather events as we move forward.'

Based in Dallas, the airline said it will invest $1.3 billion on technology projects this year alone - a 25 percent increase from the funds it spent in 2019, before the pandemic brought the airline industry to an abrupt halt.
A New York City screenwriter is suing his luxury apartment's management after a construction worker working on the building allegedly violently assaulted him in an elevator.

Richard Regen, 60, filed the suit with his wife Lili Abir on Tuesday against the ABC Management group, construction company M Daddio Inc., The Artists' Condominium, and construction worker Andrew Caban.

The February 2 attack left Regen in the hospital for eight days and in need of major head surgery.

Regen was leaving his apartment on West 23rd Street to attend physical therapy after debilitating stroke two years ago, when Caban allegedly assaulted him in the elevator and left him unconscious before fleeing.

Construction worker Andrew Caban is seen in front of Richard Regen in the elevator of his apartment building on West 23rd Street in February

Screenwriter Richard Regen and his wife, interior designer Lili Abir are suing over the attack which left him with a brain injury

Attorneys for Regen said he suffered a brain bleed, traumatic brain injury, and seizures following the accident.

Regen was later forced to receive neurosurgery over skull damages he suffered, with photos from his recovery showing a row of staples running down his scarred head.

The Regens are seeking damages that have not yet been determined, with attorneys saying the defendants demonstrated negligence that resulted in Regen's injuries and ongoing recovery.

The Manhattan DA is pursuing criminal prosecution of Caban, attorneys said.

Attorney Nathan Werskman said Caban had been holding the elevator during his construction work, and then rode it to Regen's floor after the elevator was repeatedly called there.

Werksman said Regen - whose speech had been affected by his stroke, according to the lawsuit - told Caban that he wasn't allowed to hold the elevator, which prompted the construction worker to grow angry and say 'Do you want to get hit?'

Security footage from inside the elevator showed Regen backed into a corner as the pair spoke, before Caban approaches him, shoves him against the wall, and then punches him twice over the head.

Regen was knocked to the ground, where he slumped apparently unconscious for several moments.

Caban stood over Regen while he waited for the elevator to arrive at the lobby, apparently saying something to the limp body before leaning over him to push a button on the elevator's panel.

Caban punches Regen in the building elevator and leaves him unconscious on the floor

Regen was forced to undergo major surgery to repair his damaged skull (right) after the attack

'After brutally attacking Regen Caban stood over Regen's body as the elevator descended to the first floor, but offered Regen  who was gravely injured  no help,' the lawsuit read. It alleges Caban than 'fled the premises.'

'The Defendants violated a most sacred right,' attorneys wrote. 'Safety within one's own home.'

'New Yorkers should not fear being attacked in their own elevators by anyone, let alone by the people specifically hired to work on their buildings,' Werksman told the Post.

Regen's wife heard part of the altercation through the closed elevator doors.

'I never  in a million years  thought something like this could happen to my husband in our own building,' she told the New York Post.

Richard Regen's luxury apartment in downtown Manhattan where he was attacked

Regen was transported to the Bellevue Hospital intensive care unit where he stayed for eight days.

Werksman said Regen's injuries forced him back into physical therapy, and that he needs supervision around the clock.

On the day of the attack, he was going to practice a speech he was giving for his graduation from the rehabilitation program he had been in since his stroke, according to the New York Post.

Caban is due in court on Wednesday over ongoing misdemeanor assault and harassment charges from the incident, according to public records.

His attorneys told The Post he has plead not guilty, and pointed out that the video does not include audio of what the pair said to each other in the elevator.

Public records show the Regens bought their apartment near NYC's High-Line in 2022 for $4million.

'Above all else, we hope with this lawsuit to protect other people so it doesn't happen to them,' Ms. Regen said.
A naked Royal Marine climbed into the bed of a female colleague and put his hands down her pants following his boozy leaving do, a court martial heard today.

'Exceptionally drunk' Corporal Brook Hirst is accused of clambering into bed with the woman, and she woke up to him repeatedly 'tugging' at her jeans as he attempted to take them off.

The woman then turned around to find the Corporal 'spooning me, fully naked'.

Cpl Hirst of the Commando Logistic Regiment Medical Squadron, who is married, then mistakenly believed he was in his own bed when someone attempted to remove him and he tried to continue sleeping, it was heard.

The commando denied one count of sexual assault as he appeared at Bulford Military Court in Wiltshire on Tuesday.

Corporal Brook Hirst at Bulford Military Court Centre. He allegedly clambered into bed with the woman and woke her up by repeatedly 'tugging' at her jeans as he tried to take them off

In prosecuting, Captain Rebecca Slee told the court that Cpl Hirst had been celebrating moving to a different unit by indulging in drinking games at a bar on his barracks.

She told the court in Wiltshire: 'It was Cpl Hirst's leaving do. From 6.30pm those in attendance were drinking and playing games.

'By 11pm, the group - including the complainant - left the bar and ordered a pizza from their accommodation.

'The defendant had gone for drinks elsewhere.

'The complainant went to bed at 11.30pm feeling unwell, and woke up in the early hours feeling a hand down her trousers and saw Cpl Hirst was in her bed naked with his hands inside her underwear.

'She ran out of her room in shock and sought assistance from others in the vicinity.'

The incident was reported by the woman to her superiors the next day, and her interview with the service police was played out to the court.

Recounting how she was awoken after going to bed, she said: 'The next thing I remember was being woken by the forceful tugging of my jeans.

'I remember a hand down down my pants. My jean button and zip was undone and I don't remember doing that myself.

'The first thing I saw when I woke up was clothes on the floor.

'I slowly turned around and saw it was Brook spooning me, fully naked.'

The court heard how the woman was left trying to 'sneak' out of her own bedroom, to avoid waking Cpl Hirst, who appeared to be 'in and out' of sleep.

In describing the impact the incident has had on her, she continued to say: 'I was scared.

'I had just never felt like that before and it's the worst feeling ever.

'I really try to blend in and get on with everyone - and I do - but he made me feel vulnerable and I hate it.'

The court heard she went to the rooms of other marine friends, crying as she told them what had happened and also asking one to get Cpl Hirst out of her bed.

Pictured: Bulford Military Court Centre. Cpl Hirst of the Commando Logistic Regiment Medical Squadron, who is married, then mistakenly believed he was in his own bed when someone attempted to remove him and he tried to continue sleeping

Her flatmate also recalled there being commotion and footsteps in the corridor during the early hours, revealing she had heard someone trying to get into her bedroom beforehand.

In her witness statement, the flatmate said she had seen and heard her door handle move 'as if someone was trying to slowly open my door'.

The marine who helped the alleged victim by removing Cpl Hirst, told the court the naked, disorientated and sleepy corporal had told him to 'leave me alone, I'm in my bed' before pulling the bed covers back over him.

He also described Cpl Hirst as having been 'exceptionally drunk', with speech 'blurred' and 'eyes everywhere' during the evening of celebration.

The woman reiterated her relationship with Cpl Hirst had been purely professional. She added that there had never been any history of romance or flirting between them.

The court heard that the following morning, after being told of his conduct the previous evening, Cpl Hirst went to the woman's room and said 'I heard I was inappropriate last night'.

His female colleague highlighted the seriousness of the incident and said 'inappropriate would not be the word I would use to describe it'.

Still in a 'state of shock' she reported the incident to her superiors the following afternoon.

Cpl Hirst denies the charge of sexual assault.

The trial continues.
A father-of-three who hacked into hundreds of webcams across the world so he could spy on women undressing and having sex has been jailed for 14 months.

Christopher Taylor, 60, was caught when IT specialists at the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta alerted the FBI after the malware was found on the laptop of a student at its aerospace laboratory.

Taylor had tricked 772 people in 39 different countries into unwittingly relinquishing control of their computers so he could monitor their private lives over a three-year period.

Police believe 47 women were secretly watched by the married man from his laptop at his 170,000 semi-detached home in Wigan, Greater Manchester, while engaging in sexual activity with their partners.

He used the malware 'Cammy' to log onto victims' computer devices while they also ate, studied and did yoga.

At Bolton Crown Court Taylor admitted securing unauthorised access to computer material, voyeurism and possession of extreme pornography.

Today he was sentenced to 14 months in prison and ordered to abide by the terms of a Sexual Harm Prevention Order and sign the Sex Offender Register for ten years.

Sentencing Judge Martin Walsh told Taylor: 'You used sophisticated covert remote access computer software to gain entry to an remotely take control of personal computers belonging to others. This was done by the utilisation of a pornographic website which encouraged users to click onto a link in order to access material.

Christopher Taylor, 60, pictured outside Bolton Crown Court, hacked into hundreds of webcams across the world so he could spy on women undressing and having sex

Taylor's home in Wigan, Greater Manchester, where police believe he secretly watched 47 women

'Once the link was accessed the individual computer would then be infected with a malware virus that would allow you to gain access to and covertly take over control of the individual computer.'

'Once the individual computers had been hacked you were then able to remotely activate the camera on the devices and to record images which were predominately of females engaged in various acts within the privacy of their homes.

'Images recorded included ordinary domestic scenes but also images of a personal and intimate nature, including images of individuals engaging in sexual activity.'

'These recordings had been made for the purposes of your own sexual gratification. The hacking and the illicit recoding of material continued for a period of six years.

'In reality the offence of hacking in to the personal computers of others was undertaken for the specific purpose of engaging in voyeurism. Hacking was the mechanism which facilitated the voyeurism and in my judgement it is appropriate to impose concurrent sentences in respect of count one and two.'

The Judge continued: 'This offence was characterised by persistent and widespread hacking into computers of individuals for the explicit purpose of observing intimate personal and private activity taking place within their own homes. Images were recorded and this was undertaken for your own personal and sexual gratification.

'I have considered with care whether the sentence should be suspended and in doing so I have had particular regard to your present state of health and to the impact a sentence may have on upon your wife.

'I am satisfied however that the aggravating features of the offences are such that only an immediate sentence of imprisonment can be justified.

'The offending took place over a lengthy period of time and was undertaken following a significant degree of sophisticated planning preparation.

'Victims were vulnerable in the sense that they were targeted within their own homes. Images were recorded and retained by you. In my judgement, therefore, on an immediate sentence of imprisonment can be justified to reflect the gravity of your offending behaviour.'

The married father of three, who is a full-time carer for his wife Wendy

A prosecutor said the malware was detected on a student's laptop by the 'sophisticated spyware systems' at Georgia Institute of Technology. FBI agents were able to link it back to Taylor's unassuming home in north-west England.

The investigation found Taylor had deleted thousands of files before his arrest.

When British police raided his home, Taylor - a full-time carer for his wife Wendy - told officers: 'It's just what I've been meddling with on the computer.'

He faced extradition proceedings to be tried in the US for wire and computer fraud, but the request was turned down after a judge in London ruled it would 'negatively impact' his ailing wife.

Taylor was jailed today after he admitted voyeurism and securing unauthorised access to computer material.

Taylor also admitted possession of extreme pornography after obscene images were found on his devices.

He was found to have amassed a huge cache of 80,000 images and videos dating from between 2012 and 2015.

'Many of these images and videos captured people eating, working, lying in bed and doing yoga,' Neil Fryman, prosecuting, told the hearing.

'However, there were also a number of images that showed people in various stages of undress and involved in sexual activity.'

The Federal Bureau of Investigation headquarters in Washington DC

Andrew Jebb, defending, said his client 'still struggles to provide an obvious answer as to why all of this began'.

He told the court that Taylor's obsession 'merely started out as an interest in viruses before it developed into something more sinister'.

Taylor - who has been diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome  previously claimed he had not used the malware for 'sexual gratification' or targeted anyone in particular, but had an 'obsessive interest in computers and hacking'.

The failed extradition bid in 2020 heard he had become 'fascinated' by the idea that he would be able to see through other people's webcams - describing it as an 'addiction'.
Damien Bendall was jailed for life in December 2022 for the four brutal killings

An inquest will investigate how a boyfriend who murdered his partner and three children was deemed to pose a low risk of serious harm by probation services.

Damien Bendall, 32, who was previously called 'cold and calculated and quite psychopathic' by a probation officer, raped and killed 11-year-old Lacey Bennett at their home in Killamarsh, Derbyshire in September 2021.

Bendall then went on to murder Lacey's brother, John Paul Bennett, 13, his partner and the children's mother Terri Harris, 35, and Lacey's friend, Connie Gent, who had been at the house for a sleepover.

The killer, who used a claw hammer to murder his victims at their home in Killamarsh, Derbyshire, had a history of serious of violent and serious offences dating back to 2004.

Despite this, he was classed as posing a low risk of serious harm to partners and children.

Damien Bendall, 32, (pictured) who was previously called 'cold and calculated and quite psychopathic' by a probation officer, killed his partner and three children

Lacey Bennett (left) her mother Terri Harris (centre) and her brother, John Paul, (right) were all killed

Connie Gent, 11, was at a sleepover at the home in Killamarsh, near Sheffield, when she was murdered

A review of how the Probation Service handled Bendall prior to the murders, ordered by the Justice Secretary, Dominic Raab, found that his supervision was of an 'unacceptable standard' at every stage and 'critical opportunities' to correct errors were missed.

After murdering all four of them, the monster took John's X-box and called a taxi to take him to Sheffield to exchange it for drugs.

When the cab driver asked how his night had been, Bendall told him he had 'just been chilling with the family really', while his four victims lay dead in the house.

During the court case, where he was jailed for life, police released footage of the moment of his arrest, which showed him look unconcerned about the nightmare he had created.

The footage showed him saying 'I'm going back to prison again' and 'I've murdered four people'.

Upon his sentencing in December, Judge Sweeney dismissed Bendall's pathetic attempt to claim the killings had been caused by a brain injury - something his own lawyer said he had no tests to prove.

The judge told Bendall at the time: 'You have a significant background of violent offending.

'In April 2020 you began a relationship with Terri Harris which became abusive and controlling, distancing Terri from her family.

'On September 18, you carried out a brutal and vicious assault on a defenceless woman and three children.

An inquest will investigate how Bendall, who murdered his partner and three children, was deemed to pose a low risk of serious harm by probation services (sketch from September 2021)

Ms Harris, was in the early stages of pregnancy when she was killed by Bendall

Today, at a pre-inquest review hearing into the deaths of Ms Harris, Lacey (pictured), John Paul and Connie at Chesterfield Coroners Court, Peter Nieto, area coroner for Derby and Derbyshire, said that four separate inquests would be held at the same time into the deaths

'You attacked Lacey downstairs and carried her upstairs where you raped her on the bed where her mother had been killed as her life ebbed away.'

Today, at a pre-inquest review hearing into the deaths of Ms Harris, Lacey, John Paul and Connie at Chesterfield Coroners Court, Peter Nieto, area coroner for Derby and Derbyshire, said that four separate inquests would be held at the same time into the deaths.

He said: 'There has been an Inspectorate of Probation report produced in January and that report obviously raises a number of issues in relation to the assessment and management of the defendant, and whether different management might have made a difference, which from our point of view may mean that there was a prospect that the deaths could have been avoided.

'The inquests are going to require particular scrutiny of the ways that Damien Bendall was managed and assessed.

'We need to understand who was involved and how any contribution from any agency involved contributed to the deaths.'

Bendall, who was expecting a child with Ms Harris when he committed the murders, was given four whole life tariffs for the killings, and another for raping Lacey, in December last year.

In January, Chief Inspector of Probation Justin Russell said that a catalogue of errors and missed opportunities in Bendall's supervision saw him categorised as posing a low risk of causing serious harm to partners and children, and a medium risk to the public, and being supervised by inexperienced staff and 'heavily overloaded' line managers.

John Paul and Lacey with their father Jason Bennett

An family handout photo of Connie Gent who was killed by Bendall while at a sleepover

Flowers laid in tribute to the four killed outside the home in Chandos Crescent, Killmarsh, near Sheffield

That was despite Bendall being given a suspended sentence for arson just weeks before the murders, domestic abuse allegations being made by a previous partner and concerns being raised over his contact with a 16-year-old girl in foster care.

After the arson, probation staff decided he was suitable to be put under curfew at home with Ms Harris - an assessment the watchdog concluded was 'dangerous and entirely inappropriate'.

No attempt was made to speak to Ms Harris or visit the property and there is no evidence that 'essential' domestic abuse and child safeguarding checks were carried out by the probation officers making this decision, Mr Russell said, as he agreed no mandatory requirement to do so was 'extraordinary'.

At the hearing on Tuesday, Mr Nieto said that the inquests should not be a 're-run' of the Inspectorate's 'very helpful' report, and would also consider whether changes had already been made by the Probation Service and agencies involved in Bendall's supervision.

David Sandiford, representing the Ministry of Justice and HM Prison and Probation Service, said that the organisations 'continue to express their deepest sympathy' to the families of the victims and added that all 17 recommendations made in the Inspectorate's report had all been 'accepted and reviewed'.

Relatives of the victims were present at the hearing, as well as representatives of Derbyshire Constabulary, the Ministry of Justice, Derbyshire County Council and Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.

Angie Smith, the mother of Ms Harris, has launched a campaign, named Terri's Fight, calling for relatives to be able to more easily access information on partners they are concerned about.

Mr Nieto said another pre-inquest review would be held in June or July.
A top soap actor in his 20s who was arrested on suspicion of 'raping a young woman he met at a party' has had the case against him dropped.

The suspect had been accused of attacking a woman in her 20s after meeting her at a party in London.

He was arrested and bailed but after 'extensive enquiries' was informed that the case against him had been dropped. The alleged victim has also been informed.

Detectives interviewed the actor - believed to be a familiar face to millions of viewers - for several hours.

A soap actor in his 20s has been arrested and released on bail over an alleged rape that took place on December 30, 2022 at an address in Southwark, South London. File photo showing a model

A source told The Sun the news that the case will go no further would come as a 'huge relief' to the celebrity.

The Met said: 'In February 2023, police began an investigation after a woman in her 20s reported she was raped while at a residential address in the Southwark area on 30 December 2022.

'She was supported by specially trained officers.

'A 25-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of rape and later bailed.

'Following extensive enquiries, no further action will be taken and the case has been closed.

'Both parties have been informed.'
Shocking footage shows the moment a man appears to smash a paving slab over the head of another in a horrific attack in broad daylight.

Police were called to the incident at Dean Court in Dukinfield, Greater Manchester, on Sunday evening.

In a video clip of the dramatic incident, which took place close to a primary school just before children return from the Easter holidays, the attacker appears to say 'do you want this over your head?'

As the victim walks towards the attacker, he can be seen putting his arms behind his back before being brutally knocked to the floor after being smashed over the head.

The attacker then appears to repeat the words 'I warned you' as he paces back and forth along the pavement next to the unconscious body of the victim.

Shocking footage shows the moment a man appears to smash a paving slab over the head of another in a horrific attack

As the victim walks towards the attacker, he can be seen putting his arms behind his back before being brutally knocked to the floor after being smashed over the head

The victim was left unconscious on the floor and a probe into attempted murder has been launched

A 25-year-old man has now been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and is in custody for questioning.

The victim was seriously injured but police say his injuries are not life-threatening.

People living nearby told the Manchester Evening News they heard 'shouting and screaming' and found a man with blood on his head lying to the ground.

Police were said to be 'swarming' around the Manchester estate after the horrifying attack at about 7.45pm on Sunday.

Residents reported seeing a loose pavement slab which had been left next to the victim.

One mother, who wished not to be named, told MEN: Having police at the end of your road is an everyday occurrence here.

'I've lived here for 15 years and it's not safe, I've had to get cameras because the ones in the street don't work anymore.

'The police are just called out here so much and they're so stretched, they're doing their best.'

Another family told the same outlet that they always used to let their children play outside but have had to think twice due to the increased police presence.

A 25-year-old man has now been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and is in custody for questioning

Police and forensic teams were pictured at the scene as they investigate the shocking attack

Greater Manchester Police confirmed an investigation into attempted murder has been launched, while they revealed the victim has not suffered 'life-threatening' injuries

They said: 'We'd have paddling pools and number mats for them in the street connecting our houses.

'We'd have food and barbecues outside our doors - we daren't do that anymore.'

A GMP spokesperson told MailOnline: 'Greater Manchester Police can confirm an investigation into an attempted murder has now been launched.

'Officers were initially called to Dean Court in Dukinfield at around 8pm on Sunday 16 April 2023.

'As a result, a 25-year-old man has now been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and is in custody for questioning.

'The injuries sustained by the victim were believed to be serious, but thankfully not life-threatening.'
Two teenage boys, both aged 15, have been arrested on suspicion of rape after two girls were reportedly attacked in Nuneaton on Saturday evening.

Warwickshire Police have confirmed that both suspects remain in custody while authorities continue their investigation.

Police previously said that the two girls, aged 14 and 15, had been approached by two males outside a McDonalds on Queen's Road in Nuneaton Town Centre.

Authorities say it is: 'understood that sometime between 7pm and 8pm, one of the victims was raped by the first suspect in Riversley Park while the other victim was raped sometime between 7pm and 10pm by the second suspect in Jubilee Park.'

The first man is described as white and 5ft 5in tall, skinny, with tanned skin and straight black hair. He is said to have had some facial hair but not a full beard and has pierced ears with stud earrings.

The teenagers were first approached by the men outside the McDonald's on Queens Road in Nuneaton (pictured)

Police have been seen on patrols in Jubilee Park since the incidents

He is believed to have been wearing black cap, black trousers and a black puffer coat.

The second man, also white and 5ft 5in tall, was described as being skinny with pale skin and short black curly hair.

He was wearing a black puffer coat, black Adidas tracksuit bottoms and white trainers, police said.

Yesterday, residents reacted with shock to the rapes after police stepped up patrols of both parks.

Mum-of-one Evie Taylor said: 'I heard about the rapes on Sunday night from Facebook and everyone's saying how shocking it is.

'I feel so sorry for the poor girls and their families.

'It's terrifying to think that two friends can't go out to McDonald's without being raped. What the hell is the world coming to?'

Police erected a crime scene in Jubilee Park following the events of the weekend

There has also been an increased police presence in nearby Riversley Park

Another resident, who lives near Jubilee Park where police have sealed off an area of wasteland, said: 'The town is getting worse and no police anywhere.

'I've seen people shooting up in the park in broad daylight with families nearby.

'The place is a dump and it's a dangerous place to go after dark.'

Detective Inspector Paul Sartoris said: 'These were shocking incidents and were devastating for both victims who are being supported by specially trained officers.

'A full investigation is underway to establish the circumstances surrounding these incidents, which I recognise will cause great concern in the community.

'The public can expect to see a heightened police presence in and around Nuneaton town centre while officers continue to conduct their enquiries.

'I would urge anyone who may have witnessed either incident, seen the girls and/or the two individuals that fit the above descriptions to please get in touch as any information you may have could really help with our investigation.

'I would also urge anyone with dashcam footage who may have been driving close to Jubilee Park between 7pm and 10pm, or Riversley Park between 7pm and 8pm yesterday evening to also make contact with us.'

Anyone with information that could help our ongoing investigation can report it online, call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 quoting incident numbers 326 (Riversley Park) or 363 (Jubilee Park) of 15 April 2023.
Donald Trump predicted that Disney's next move could be to leave Florida and prompt a financial 'killer' for Ron DeSantis amid the governor's war with the corporation.

The former president said the Florida Governor - and his potential 2024 presidential rival - is being 'destroyed' by the Magic Kingdom and claimed his 'original P.R. plan fizzled'.

He said the corporation could start selling properties and moving money out of the state in the feud over who has control over the Reedy Creek Improvement District.

While organizations cannot directly contribute to candidates or party committees, Isaac Ike Perlmutter, who was until recently chair of Disney property Marvel and close friend of Trump, made a massive $10.5 million contribution to America First Action PAC in the 2020 cycle.

The next highest recipient was Joe Biden with $1.2 million from roughly 4,700 individuals linked to Disney or one of its many affiliates.

In the most recent escalation in the war with Disney, DeSantis threatened to build a prison next to the theme park as payback for trying to strip his powers over the land the Magic Kingdom sits on.

Donald Trump has urged Disney to leave Florida in a move that would be a financial 'killer' for Ron DeSantis

The former president said the Florida Governor and potential 2024 presidential rival is being 'destroyed' by the Magic Kingdom and claimed his 'original P.R. plan fizzled'

He also said the Republican-controlled Florida state legislature will void Disney's legal maneuvering that effectively stripped his new oversight board of authority over the company.

DeSantis has warned he will announce further crackdowns next week on Reedy Creek, the district that had tax exemptions and ran itself for decades.

'DeSanctus is being absolutely destroyed by Disney,' Trump claimed in a Truth Social post on Tuesday morning, seeming to employ a shorter version of his usual nickname 'DeSanctimonious'.

'His original P.R. plan fizzled, so now he's going back with a new one in order to save face,' he added of DeSantis. 'Disney's next move will be the announcement that no more money will be invested in Florida because of the Governor - In fact, they could even announce a slow withdrawal or sale of certain properties, or the whole thing. Watch! That would be a killer.'

Poll Do you support Ron DeSantis or Disney in their feud over Reedy Creek? Disney Ron DeSantis Do you support Ron DeSantis or Disney in their feud over Reedy Creek? Disney 615 votes

Ron DeSantis 391 votes Now share your opinion





'In the meantime, this is all so unnecessary, a political STUNT! Ron should work on the squatter MESS!' the former president advised.

DeSantis has not yet announced a plan to run for president in 2024, but amid rumors he is considering a run, the popular GOP governor has become the only potential challenger that could face-off with Trump.

He is also touring the country, fueling more speculation that an announcement of a bid is impending.

DeSantis is going to Washington, D.C. this week to speak at the Heritage Foundation's Leadership Summit and will make two different stops in early primary contest state of South Carolina on Wednesday.

Trump's latest attack came after another Florida lawmaker issued his endorsement for the former president's third consecutive White House bid.

Rep. Greg Steube endorsed Trump in an interview Monday evening with Newsmax. He claimed another four years of Trump would help rectify the 'disastrous policies of the Biden administration.'

Now a Florida resident, Trump has clinched more than a handful of endorsements from Florida's congressional delegation.

'Today I continue my unwavering support for the America First movement by endorsing the leader of our party, President Donald Trump for re-election to President of the United States!' Steube tweeted with a clip of his endorsement.

Disney's battle with Florida first began in 2022 when company officials publicly spoke out against the then proposed 'Don't Say Gay' bill.

The now law prohibits instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity for children in Florida schools through third grade.

Former CEO Bob Chapek responded to the bill and said at the time he called DeSantis to 'express our disappointment and concern.'

In response, Florida Republicans dissolved the state's special tax district.

Although the 'Pride Nite' is being held on the opposite side of the country, Twitter users were not convinced that the announcement had nothing to do with the current controversy occurring in Florida.

'This is Disney standing up to Florida's radical governor,' wrote actor Steven Pasquale.

'The fireworks will be so large and so gay that they will cover the coup Disney launches in Tallahassee,' one person joked. 'The last thing Meatball Ron will hear is 'Oh Gawrsh' before Goofy shows him the true meaning of Hush Puppy.'

The former president suggested the company could move out of the Sunshine State

Disney's battle with Florida first began in 2022 when company officials publicly spoke out against the then proposed 'Don't Say Gay' bill
Insulate Britain protesters sent police a warning email to inform them they were planning to block the M25, a court heard.

Hove Crown Court heard a dozen protesters caused chaos when they sat down in the carriageway in the middle of rush hour traffic.

An email to the Met Police was sent the day before activists carried out their protest on September 13, 2021.

The email, sent to the Public Order Unit and senior officers, did not warn police of the exact location of the planned protest at Swanley interchange.

Alex Young, prosecuting, told the court the email was not sent to the force with responsibility for the interchange.

Inspector Rob Thornton of Kent Police said he was in command on the morning concerned and had only four regular officers and one probationary officer on duty at the time of the incident.

He said the incident had come as a surprise and he had to deal with it using some of the lowest staffing numbers he had had to work with.

Cathy Eastburn is among four defendants appearing in court over an M25 protest in Kent in 2021

Insulate Britain activists outside Hove Crown Court on Monday

Inspector Thornton said they were the 'minimum' levels they were able to 'safely' function with.

Two activists handed out leaflets to motorists to explain their action was part of a climate change protest.

But angry motorists were not sympathetic and rounded on the protesters with fury branding them 'pr**ks' and 'f**king idiots'

The jury heard one male motorist had to be restrained by police as he left his vehicle and marched forward to confront the eco-protesters.

Cathy Eastburn, 55, the wife of a former Transport for London (TfL) boss, is on trial along with Insulate Britain spokesperson, Cameron Ford, 32, Alexander Rodger, 33, and Venetia Carter, 58.

They have all been charged with causing a public nuisance at the same incident at the Swanley interchange on September 13, 2021.

Giving evidence Rodger, a teacher, said the protest had been timed to coincide with the COP26 conference in Glasgow.

He said: 'It was being hosted by the UK but we thought there was a high degree of hypocrisy as a result. The Government's action on climate change was so little.'

Eastburn pictured outside Hove Crown Court. She is married to Benedict Plowden, 59, who left his post at TfL in November 2021

He said they chose the protests with an aim of getting as much publicity as possible.

Rodger said: 'We wanted to get as much media attention as possible.'

He said a series of actions were planned in and around London as a way of delivering 'short, sharp shocks, enough to get arrested. That was part of the plan.'

He said: 'The plan was in the next few days to do another block. We wanted to get arrested and be remanded in custody.'

Rodger told the court that in the run-up to the incident he and others had received specialist training in a church hall.

'We had a day of training in a church hall to organise what would happen on the day and learn the theory of non-violence. We acted it out as if we were on the motorway.

'When there was an ambulance we planned we would move out of the way. The blue lights policy was that if we saw blue lights we had to get out of the way.

'We were trained in what to do if we were attacked and what to do if we were dragged out of the road by angry members of the public.'

Rodger said he felt compelled to take action by the climate change crisis and realised he could get a criminal record.

'I knew it could result in me having a criminal record and it would have an impact. It has been very distressing to my family but I was duty bound to do it.'

Asked by Raj Chada, defending, whether an email had been sent to police he replied that it had.

He said: 'They were sent an email before that there would be blocks around the M25.'

Mr Chada said: 'Though it was not said when or not said where exactly.'

The jury was told the protesters, all wearing orange hi-visibility tabards, walked into the busy road junction after a traffic light turned red.

They unfurled a banner across the road and then sat down across the carriageway blocking the junction.

PC Matthew Noone, who was called to the scene, heard insults being hurled at the activists.

In a statement read to court he said: 'I heard many diverted motorists shouting at the protesters things like: 'Get a job' and swear words like: 'Pr**ks' and 'F***ing idiots.'

'One motorist was extremely angry. He was swearing at protesters and approached them on foot and he had to be restrained.'

In a statement Alan Hartley, who runs a car transport business and was stuck in the traffic, said: 'I could hear people shouting abuse shouting: 'Scumbags' and 'Get a f**king job.'

Christina Bowden, who on her way to a conference where she was a speaker, said she turned away when a protester tried to hand her a leaflet through her car window.

She said: 'A number of vehicles [were] sounding their horns. There were more and more people sounding their horns aggressively.'

She said people were shouting: 'You're stopping us getting to work' and 'This is our livelihoods' but the activists refused to move.

In a statement Superintendent Mick Gardner said the protesters were causing a risk not just to themselves but to motorists and other road users.

He said he understood they were taking the action with the aim of highlighting climate change and to pressurise the Government to insulate Britain's housing stock.

In a statement read to court he said: 'The protesters blocking the road caused traffic chaos and ultimately caused more pollution. It was not justified and not a proportionate action.'
The Polish woman repeatedly claiming to be Madeleine McCann - despite negative DNA test results - has been reported to police over explicit images of children that were allegedly found on her phone.

This morning, news broke that police have seized a phone belonging to Julia Wendell, who went viral on social media for claiming she was missing British toddler Madeleine McCann.

It has now been revealed that Dr Fia Johansson, a private investigator and psychic medium who brought Wendell to the US, has handed over the phone to Californian police after filing a report alleging a phone Wendell had left behind with her in California after the DNA test appeared to contain explicit images of children.

Dr Johansson told The Sun: 'Police are taking this very seriously and have assured me that a full investigation will be done,' and added that Orange County police have told her the phone would be passed on to law enforcement in Germany and Poland.

Wendell has denied these claims and said she already spoke to police in Poland about this.

The probe comes after it has emerged that the woman, Julia Wendell, 21 (pictured), is planning a second DNA test after the first one proved she is not the missing British toddler who vanished while on a family holiday in Portugal in 2007

Madeleine went missing from her family's holiday apartment in the Algarve resort of Praia da Luz in May 2007 and has not been seen since

Julia (right) was assisted by Dr Fia Johansson (left), a private investigator and psychic medium, in submitting DNA samples

Wendell also spoke to The Sun and said: 'I didn't have child pornography on my phone. I am not a pedophile. I am a victim of a pedophile.'

After Dr Johansson announced the negative DNA results in an Instagram post on April 4, she revealed to The Sun: 'Julia has had a difficult childhood, we know she has been sexually abused, she has been very open about this, and my investigation uncovered legal records proving that this was true.'

The phone was seized after it emerged Wendell is planning a second DNA test after the first one proved she is not the missing British toddler who vanished while on a family holiday in Portugal in 2007.

The Orange County Sheriff's Department reportedly contacted police in the Polish city of Wroclaw to tell them they had seized a phone believed to be Wendell's.

While the Sheriff's Department confirmed that they seized the phone, they decline to provide more details about the investigation.

The phone was reportedly handed over to police voluntarily.

Department spokesperson Sgt. Mike Woodroof told RadarOnline: 'We are not going to make any comments about the case.

'Our investigation is taking a deep look into it and we're going to let them do their investigative duties and then from that point let the judicial system take over  if it needs to.'

Wendell made headlines around the world earlier this year after she uploaded her spurious theories on social media with the username '@IamMadeleineMcCann'.

Her claims led to Wendell even appearing on talk show Dr Phil after being flown across the Atlantic by American media personality Dr Fia Johansson to discuss the far-fetched possibility.

But finally she was persuaded to take a DNA test and the results proved conclusively that she had no relation to Madeleine, after which Wendell returned to Poland to live with her father.

This was before a MailOnline investigation earlier this month revealed that Wendell had previously claimed to be three other missing girls.

Julia's claims were debunked after DNA test results proved she is not missing Madeleine McCann

Wroclaw is rated as one of the top 100 cities in the world to live in and is famed for its picturesque Gothic squares and churches. Pictured: A street in Wroclaw where the Family home of Julia Wendell is located

Wendell's mother Dorota runs a chain of successful clothes shops in the city, where she lives with husband Piotr

Last week Wendell said in a statement: 'It wasn't my intention to bring sadness or any other negative emotion to anyone, especially to McCann's family.'

Wendell also issued a 17-page statement in which she apologised for the 'sadness' she caused the McCanns, of Rothley, Leicestershire - but then bizarrely denied that she had ever claimed she was Madeleine.

Despite her apology, Wendell has now doubled down on her claims and said on Instagram she wanted to do a second DNA test: 'I want to do this because I just want to do this and I don't even have to explain why but I think everyone knows why I want to do this.

'When the results come I will let you know everything.'

She also claimed she is being 'supported' by officials and people in law enforcement.

Dr Johansson said Wendell not accepting the DNA result was partially due to her past and being abused as a child, but also added to The Sun: 'Then on top of that she felt she was being ignored by her mother, who refused to take the DNA test which could have stopped all this from the beginning and given her the closure she needs.'

Dr Johansson added that as a psychologist, she could understand why Wendell didn't want to believe the DNA results, as she 'didn't want to believe her mother was her real mother'.
An experienced sheep farmer has received death threats and hateful abuse over his use of a traditional lambing method.

Gareth Wyn Jones was blasted as 'cruel' after sharing a video of him placing a dead lamb's skin over a live one in attempt to protect it by persuading the dead lambs mother to accept and feed the orphan lamb.

The father-of-three was met with huge backlash over the practice - which has been done for hundreds of years - despite having explained that the lamb had died of natural causes and its 'jacket' would protect the live animal.

He has now complained to police after one man allegedly threatened to slit his throat and kill his children over the farming technique.

Gareth Wyn Jones was blasted as 'cruel' after sharing a video of him placing a dead lamb's skin over a live one (pictured) - a practice that has been done for hundreds of years

The father-of-three (pictured) was met with huge backlash despite having explained that the lamb had died of natural causes - and its 'jacket' would protect the live animal

In a hate-filled voice message, a man from the Netherlands told Mr Jones, of Conwy, North Wales: 'I come and cut your throat.'

'I hope to kill your children, you motherf****r f****r idiot. I hope you die same way.'

Mr Jones said he had faced abuse before but felt he had to tell police of the threat.

The farmer said: 'When you hear something like this in a voice message, it seems a bit more real.

'This guy is only an hour away by airplane and it wouldn't take him long to find out where we live.

Mr Jones (pictured) has now complained to police after one man allegedly threatened to slit his throat and kill his children over the farming technique

In a hate-filled voice message, a man from the Netherlands told Mr Jones, of Conwy, North Wales: 'I come and cut your throat'

'It's left me disappointed with elements of the society we live in. I believe in free speech but this was hate speech, pure and simple. I cannot take it lightly.

'I want this man found and put in handcuffs. People need to understand that this kind of behaviour is not acceptable.'

Mr Jones said he had installed additionally CCTV as a security measure at his farm.

He noted that as a farmer he is often working all day and throughout the year to produce crops.

'I don't want to be alone in my shed at 2am or 3am thinking there's a man outside with a knife in his hand,' he shared.

Mr Jones said he had faced abuse before but felt he had to tell police of the threat. Pictured here is a still from a video showing the lambs with skin jackets out in the field

Mr Jones said he had installed additionally CCTV as a security measure at his farm. Pictured here is a still from the video

'This is a serious issue. I have a wife, children, father, mother and friends. When these messages popped up on my phone on Sunday evening, after a hard day's work, they were not nice to hear.

'What disappointed me most was seeing the man's Facebook page - someone shared a screenshot of it. In his profile, he describes himself as a "kind man" - this is a kind man who left voicemails saying he's going to come over and cut my throat.'

Mr Jones added: 'He is just a nasty, sad human being.'

North Wales Police have said the force is aware of the incident and it is 'currently being investigated.'
Republicans wrote a letter to the White House's legal counsel urging him to stop President Biden from bringing in influencers who use TikTok to promote his agenda.

'This poses a serious national security threat at an increasingly dangerous time as China continues its military aggression towards Taiwan and economic coercion across the globe,' read the letter, spearheaded by Rep. Mark Alford, R-Mo., to counsel Stuart Delery.

Axios reported last week that the White House is drumming up an army of young influencers to promote its agenda on TikTok to youth voters.

TikTok is owned by CCP-affiliated ByteDance and has come under increased scrutiny on Capitol Hill, but lawmakers have yet to coalesce around a proposal to combat reports that the platform shares user data with the Chinese government.

'This poses a serious national security threat at an increasingly dangerous time as China continues its military aggression towards Taiwan and economic coercion across the globe,' read the letter, spearheaded by Rep. Mark Alford, R-Mo. to counsel Stuart Delery.

The White House is drumming up an army of young influencers to promote its agenda on TikTok to youth voters

'This extremely irresponsible action is a blatant and severe national security threat that will only empower the espionage efforts of one of our greatest adversaries,' the letter, signed by over a dozen Republicans and obtained by DailyMail.com, read.

The letter urged Delery, in coordination with the Defense Department and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), to 'stop this before it happens' and requested a response from Delery by April 28 on what his office will do about the matter.

Nearly 140 million Americans use TikTok every month, making a ban of the platform a massive political risk.

But at the same time the Biden administration has endorsed the Restrict Act, a bill that would allow the Commerce Department more authority to restrict foreign apps but would not require it to do so.

Weeks ago the White House demanded TikTok be sold from ByteDance or face a ban. The Chinese government said it would never approve a sale of TikTok, and since then there's been no legislative movement on the matter.

Alford said in a statement to DailyMail.com that he supported an all-out ban of the platform.

'For months, my Republican colleagues and I have been calling for a complete ban of the platform. Joe Bidens decision to not only use the platform, but to bring influencers into the White House is unacceptable and poses a serious national security threat.'

The letter said inviting influencers to the White House to make TikToks amounts to 'essentially inviting and promoting CCP infiltration into one of our most restricted space.'

Reps. Nancy Mace, S.C., Jeff Van Drew, N.J., Nick LaLota, N.Y., Andy Ogles, Tenn., Guy Reschenthaler, Pa., Randy Feenstra, Iowa, Anna Paulina Luna, Florida, Jennifer Kiggans, Va., Cory Mills, Fla., Bill Posey, Fla., Carlos Gimenez, Fla., James Moylan, Guam, Rick Crawford, Ark., Tom Kean, N.J., and Rudy Yakym, Ind., all signed on to the letter.

It follows Monday where Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., and Rep. Dan Crenshaw, R-Texas, led 15 other Republicans in asking the Senate Rules Committee and the Committee on House Administration to prevent their colleagues from using TikTok.

The application has already been banned from government phones in a bipartisan bill last Congress.

In a hearing last month TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew faced a remarkably bipartisan grilling that spooked the public on TikTok's potential ability to 'manipulate America' with its video algorithm and to allow the CCP to peer in to US users' private data.

But some lawmakers are concerned that banning the platform from US app stores would set up a legal battle on free speech. Much of the threat of TikTok is based on potential issues rather than current ones, presenting what some experts say is a tenuous case for holding up a ban in court.

In the Senate last month two GOP heavyweights butted heads when Sen. Josh Hawley, Mo., tried to get unanimous consent to pass his bill prohibiting TikTok from operating in the U.S., but libertarian-minded Rand Paul, Ky., thwarted his efforts, citing First Amendment concerns and the Constitution's ban on Congress declaring a party guilty of a crime.
A homeowner has won a battle against an 'only sell to locals' rule in a national park - after proving people living nearby could not afford his house.

Ex-Royal Marines commando Sean Taylor, 58, was told his four-bedroom countryside home could only be sold to a person working within two miles of the property.

The restriction was imposed by planners in the Snowdonia countryside of North Wales - but the owner argued local people could not afford to buy the 350,000 pricetag in rolling countryside.

Businessman Mr Taylor, who set up the 100 million adventure company Zip World, transformed the former outdoor pursuits cente after it was granted permission to be turned into a house in 2008.

He now wants to move on - but planners refused to lift the sale restriction two years ago after he was told he could only sell to someone employed nearby.

Ex-Royal Marines commando Sean Taylor, 58, was told his four-bedroom countryside home could only be sold to a person working within two miles of the property

The businessman argued that the 350,000 value of the home was far above the average household income for the area of 28,850 - only allowing a 161,000 mortgage

The rule meant the occupant must be working in a trade, business or profession within a radius of two miles.

The distance then increased to 30 miles if a buyer could not be found in the market town of Llanrwst, North Wales, after one year.

Mr Taylor has now won a planning appeal against the rule by Snowdonia National Park Authority and Conwy County Borough Council.

It comes after he argued that the 350,000 value of the home was far above the average household income for the area of 28,850 - only allowing a 161,000 mortgage.

Planning inspector Iwan Lloyd, who upheld the appeal, said: 'There is a significant shortfall between the lower valuation figure considering the restriction and the maximum mortgage eligibility of a qualifying person in the area.

'If an obligation would continue to serve a useful purpose it must be necessary, relevant, directly related to the development, fairly and reasonably related in scale and kind to the development, and reasonable in all other respects.'

Mr Taylor set up his outdoor adventure company by using his military experiences with zip lines and sky-diving.

He focused on converting heritage industrial sites into adventure playgrounds - including a former slate quarry and a coal mining site.

Last year the ex-serviceman was honoured with a special contribution to tourism award at the Go North Wales tourism Awards.

Zip World operates three sites in North Wales at Penrhyn quarry, Llechwedd Slate Caverns and Zip World Fforest near Betws-y-Coed.

There is also the Zip World Tower at the former Tower Colliery coal mining site near Aberdare, South Wales.

The company has recently branched out into the Lake District and Manchester.
Former Conservative leader William Hague faced a backlash today after he told women to 'get over' their concerns about transgender people joining the WI.

Lord Hague said that transgender people are part of modern Britain and that organisations such as the Women's Institute must welcome them.

He attacked rebel members of the group who are fighting plans to admit members who were born male for the first time.

Speaking to Times Radio he admitted he would 'probably get a lot of angry letters' from WI members' but said the organisation should welcome new blood.

Speaking this morning the peer said that it was right there were clear rules on trans women competing in sport but added: 'I'm not sure that applies to the Women's Institute, though, you know there are transgender people, they have changed their gender. This is part of our society now.

'And I think large national organisations like the WI have to get over that and get used to that, and welcome new people.'

However campaign group Conservatives for Women said: 'Telling women to ''pipe down'' is never a good look, especially as this translates to ''you are not allowed to have boundaries''.'

Lord Hague (right) attacked ladies who are opposing a change to the community organisation's rules that allows members born as men.

Petra Wenham (pictured right) from Elmsett, Ipswch. Petra is the first transgender person to appear on the cover of the Woman's Institute magazine. Her wife is Loraine (pictured left)

Loraine (pictured right) is pictured with Petra Wenham on their wedding day in 1973. Petra transitioned aged 68 and became the first trans person to feature on the WI's magazine cover

And the Family Education Trust said: 'What is Hague's definition of a trans woman? And if the WI must accept men, why not prisons, schools etc?

'Gender ideology is harmful - we must be allowed single-sex groups and spaces as men and women are fundamentally different.'

Trustees of the organisation have been blasted for forcing equality rules upon local branches following advice from campaign groups.

A new group of disgruntled WI members is demanding the national HQ to pause the admission of trans women to local branches and wants members to be able to debate and hold a vote on the contentious issue.

More than 700 people have also signed its petition calling for the Middle England institution to return to being a single-sex space.

The change means that anyone who says they are 'living as a woman' can become a WI member and that anyone who refuses them on the grounds of their gender identity is transphobic.

But the National Federation of Women's Institutes (NFWI) has been warned it risks not fulfilling its purpose as a charity to 'advance the education of women and girls' if it cannot properly define what a woman is.

A letter sent to the board by the activists, who are calling themselves the Women's Institute Declaration, concludes: 'By failing to define what a woman is, by having a wide description for a trans woman and by not allowing respectful debate, or debate of any kind, the NFWI has de facto forced individual Women's Institutes to accept men.

'This has been achieved by poor drafting of policies, poor advice from advisers and is harmful to women as a whole.'

A senior Conservative MP echoed Lord Hague's opinion, hitting out at the attempts to keep transgender women out of the WI.

Caroline Nokes, chairwoman of the Women and Equalities Committee, told Times Radio: 'It's a wholly depressing state of affairs that we regard people who are born as biologically male as dangerous and that they should somehow be dangerous whether they're in a book club or in the WI or the Girl Guides.

'The stark reality is that trans people are amongst the most marginalised, amongst the most abused in our communities. And I think we can do better than trying to paint them all as dangerous predators.'

She said that the WI should 'be entitled to make their own decision' but added: 'I think there is a huge challenge around how we can make sure that both women's rights are upheld and trans people's rights are supported.'

Campaigner Caroline Ffiske told the Mail: 'At the end of the day this becomes an issue about freedom of association. Men should have a right to gather together. Women should have a right to gather together.

'Where an organisation such as the WI has been created as a single-sex space, and has a long and proud history, to me it seems important that we keep it as such, otherwise we lose that important historical continuity and legacy.'

The WI  formed in 1915 and now the largest voluntary women's organisation in the UK with more than 180,000 members  declared in 2015 that it welcomed transgender women and, in 2021, featured trans woman Petra Wenham, who transitioned at age 68, on the cover of its magazine.

Its published policy states: 'Anyone who is living as a woman is welcome to join the WI and to participate in any WI activities in the same way as any other woman.'

The document says that it is 'unhelpful' to ask if there is a difference between a transgender woman who has undergone gender reassignment surgery and one who has not, and adds that it would be 'very offensive and hurtful' to ask for written evidence about an applicant's legal sex.

It adds that 'crossdressers' cannot join the WI as 'only those living as women can join the WI'.

A separate equality, diversity and inclusion policy states: 'Including transgender women furthers our objectives and enriches our membership to ensure we are a place for all women to celebrate who they are and influence positive change in their communities.'

But the new campaign group points out: 'There is no definition of what a woman is.'

Its letter to the trustees continues: 'If you cannot define the group you seek to represent [women], how can you understand their needs and demands?'

It points out that the WI often runs campaigns that are specific to women as a biological group, such as those opposing male violence, mixed hospital wards and the gender pay gap.

It says that the WI 'cannot legitimately campaign for women specific issues and constitutions have been de facto changed without members' consent' as a result of the admission of people who were born men.

The letter also brands as Orwellian the equality policy's glossary, which defines transphobia as 'the fear or dislike of someone based on the fact they are transgender, including denying their gender identity or refusing to accept it'.

The activists say that WI headquarters is 'seeking to police the thoughts of its members, who are not allowed to question an individual's intentions, and if they think that a man is a bad actor this is transphobic'.

Caroline Ffiske from Conservatives for Women told the Mail: 'Women have a right to vote to retain their single-sex spaces.

'I hope the WI allow this discussion and I do hope that it ultimately votes to remain proudly single sex.'

The campaign comes as ministers consider changing the equality law to make clear that it is based on biological sex rather than gender identity, a move that could see transgender women barred from female-only spaces.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has said that he backs the proposal and just last week declared that 100 per cent of women do not have a penis, after Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer suggested the majority  99.9 per cent  did not, meaning the equivalent of one in a thousand do have male genitalia.

The Prime Minister's official spokesman today said: 'On membership of any particular group that is for the group.

'The Prime Minister has said it is vitally important that transgender people are treated with compassion at all times.

'It's right the Government provides the necessary guidance and guidelines and, where necessary, laws on this issue.

'But it will be for specific groups to decide what's right for them.'
French president has been accused of getting cosier with Beijing following visit

Emmanuel Macron is understood to be bidding to team up with China in hopes of bringing Russia and Ukraine to the table for peace talks by the summer.

The French president has tasked his foreign policy adviser Emmanuel Bonne to work alongside Wang Yi, China's top diplomat, to establish plans for future negotiations.

If all goes well, France hope to bring Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelensky together to discuss a peace plan by summer, according to Bloomberg.

The anonymous sources claim that future negotiations over the ongoing invasion will depend on a range of conditions - notably how successful Ukraine's spring offensive is.

Kyiv would be in a much stronger position to negotiate should they counter Russia's condemned invasion.

Emmanuel Macron (pictured with President Xi Jinping) is understood to be bidding to team up with China in hopes of bringing Russia and Ukraine to the table for peace talks by the summer

If all goes well, France hope to bring Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelensky together to discuss a peace plan by summer

It's understood that Mr Macron's office confirmed plans for Mr Bonne and Mr Wang to speak, but declined to comment on details. Meanwhile, China's foreign ministry said it was 'difficult to verify the authenticity' of the source of information.

Many Ukraine allies remain sceptical that China can play a role in bringing peace as a neutral given its 'no-limits friendship' with Moscow.

Discussions between France and China come in the wake of Mr Macron's recent trip to Beijing - where the French president found himself in hot water over his comments about Taiwan.

Macron triggered a firestorm by asserting that Europe should not automatically follow US policy on Taiwan and should avoid 'crises that aren't ours'. He was also called out by former US President Donald Trump for 'kissing [President] Xi's a**'.

EU chief Ursula von der Leyen urged the bloc's leaders to show unity in the face of China today - a week on from Macron's comments.

'A strong European China policy relies on strong coordination between member states and EU institutions and on the willingness to avoid divide and conquer tactics,' von der Leyen, who accompanied Macron to Beijing, told MEPs.

'We have already in the recent days and weeks seen those tactics in action and it is now time for Europe to move to action too. Now is the time to demonstrate our collective will,' she said, in an address to the European Parliament.

Macron's comments drew sharp criticism from several of France's EU allies, especially nations in the east of the bloc that see the United States as their primary security guarantor in the face of China's ally Russia.

Borrell said the bloc's member states should try to get on the same 'same wavelength' over Beijing.

It is not yet clear whether Mr Macron's strategy has support from Ukraine - although on Saturday, he said he had 'discussed the next steps in the organisation of a peace summit' with Zelensky

Macron triggered a firestorm by asserting that Europe should not automatically follow US policy on Taiwan and should avoid 'crises that aren't ours'. Pictured: The French president in China earlier this month with European Commission President Ursula von de Leyen

European leaders have pushed Beijing to get its close ally Moscow to pull back, but there have been no concrete results as of yet from their diplomatic outreach.

It is not yet clear whether Mr Macron's strategy has support from Ukraine - although on Saturday, he said he had 'discussed the next steps in the organisation of a peace summit' with Zelensky.

Zelensky confirmed he had spent up to 90 minutes on the phone to Mr Macron in which they discussed the results of the president's recent visit to China'.

One source told The Telegraph: 'Mr Macron said publicly during his China trip that he wanted to get China to commit to playing a constructive role. Naturally, diplomatic discussions took place and there is a follow-up.'

Mr Macron, a currently unpopular figure at home over his pension reforms, has faced backlash from critics who believe he is pushing his own agenda as opposed to supporting allies such as Ukraine.

In fact, some believe that he is trying to play an active role in bringing the invasion to an end in order to create a legacy as a peacemaker.
After an hours-long delay, Judge Eric Davis entered the courtroom just before 4pm and dismissed the jurors, saying, 'The parties have resolved their case'

Fox News agreed to pay Dominion Voting Systems $787.5million last night in an 11th-hour settlement, averting a defamation trial about the network's coverage of the 2020 presidential election.

After an hours-long delay to the highly anticipated trial, Judge Eric Davis entered the courtroom just before 4pm and thanked the jurors as he dismissed them with the simple words: 'The parties have resolved their case.'

After the jury was dismissed attorneys for both parties thanked the court. Judge Davis in turn complimented their professionalism throughout.

This brings an end to the contentious case that saw the voting machine company accuse the cable news network of 'giving life' to a 'manufactured storyline' about voter fraud after the 2020 election.

Dominion had accused Fox News of peddling conspiracy theories regarding Donald Trump's defeat to Joe Biden, and filed a $1.6 billion lawsuit against the network.

Dominion lawyer Justin Nelson said in a news conference that Fox is paying $787,500,000 to settle the defamation case, a number which he says 'represents vindication and accountability.'

'Lies have consequences,' he said.

The network said in a statement: 'We are pleased to have reached a settlement of our dispute with Dominion Voting Systems. We acknowledge the Court's rulings finding certain claims about Dominion to be false.

'This settlement reflects Fox's continued commitment to the highest journalistic standards. We are hopeful that our decision to resolve this dispute with Dominion amicably, instead of the acrimony of a divisive trial, allows the country to move forward from these issues.'

Dominion lawyer Justin Nelson said in a news conference that Fox is paying $787,500,000 to settle the defamation case, a number which he says 'represents vindication and accountability'

A settlement has been reached in Dominion Voting Systems' $1.6billion defamation case against Fox News today

Fox Corporation chairman Rupert Murdoch was expected to testify in the trial against his Fox News - which was accused of peddling conspiracy theories regarding election fraud after Trump's defeat in 2020

Speaking directly after the settlement was announced, a source close to the Dominion team told DailyMail.com: 'It was the right thing for the client, but we were ready to try the case.'

Judge Davis said while announcing the conclusion of the case: 'I've been on the bench since 2010 and I think this is the best ordering I've had.

'The briefing, the professionalism, it's difficult stuff. I've never had as good a lawyering from here in the 13 years - the quality of the briefing, the ability of attorneys to answer questions, the amount of work load that you've done.

'I'd be proud to be your judge in the future.'

Opening statements had been due to start directly after lunch at 1.30pm.

But, after only a fleeting appearance during which he did not address anyone, Judge Eric Davis left the courtroom.

Time ticked on and with no jury seated, no judge on the bench and no explanation, the soft murmur of speculation from the gallery rose to a crescendo.

Justin Nelson, lead counsel for Dominion, and Dan Webb, his Fox counterpart, were called into Judge Davis's chambers at 2.58pm.

Barely two minutes later they were back in the court, their faces giving nothing away.

This morning Dominion told the judge they needed 1 hour 15 minutes for their opening statement while Fox had requested 1 hour 30 minutes.

Approximately 20 counsels for Dominion shuffled into the long front bench to the left of the gallery in the morning.

Fox News attorney Daniel Webb is seen leaving the courthouse Tuesday after reaching a settlement

A roughly equal number of their counterparts for Fox squeezed into two shorter pews to the right.

A further 20 attorneys - ten apiece - took their seats in the tables reserved for counsel in the court's well until the front portion of the chamber heaved with lawyers.

Perhaps in a hint of how fiercely this action has already been fought, the objections from both sides were raised before jury selection was complete.

Counsel for Dominion and Fox each raised objections to slides and content in their counterpart's opening.

According to Fox's lead counsel Dan Webb, Dominion's objections if sustained would 'cripple' their presentation.

Apparently already irritated by the day's delay and the specter of proceedings being further obstructed, Judge Davis informed the court that he would deal with objections ahead of openings.

However, he warned: 'We only have so much time. We have six weeks and I'm going to keep it strict. I'm not going to give you an extra day.

'This will start to count against you.'

Discussing it further, he told both sides to see if they could sort it out among themselves as he didn't want to 'micromanage' and didn't think it appropriate.

In a dry and stern warning, he went onto tell the court that there are 'certain rules in the courtroom  my rules.' Anyone violating them or failing to follow the instruction of the capitol police or bailiffs would, he said, 'be in big trouble. Even if you're right.'

The legal team representing Fox News is seen arriving this morning at the Leonard Williams Justice Center

Approximately 20 counsels for Fox were seen arriving to court holding boxes of documents

Opening statements in Dominion Voting Systems' $1.6B defamation suit against Fox News begin today in Delaware Superior Court. A truck is seen driving in front of the courthouse this morning

The trial has been widely viewed as a test of whether Fox's coverage crossed the line between ethical journalism and the heedless pursuit of ratings, as Dominion alleges and Fox denies

Final jury selection, which had been delayed along with the start of the trial from Monday, took just over an hour with 12 jurors and 12 alternates chosen from an already slimmed down pool of 58.

It was a sedate and tedious process with no questions asked as a group of 12 was brought in and seated in the jury box. Instead, an officer of the court read from a list of already agreed numbers  preemptory strikes from both sides  and dismissed potential jurors one by one without explanation.

As each one left, their seat was refilled by another candidate. Bit by bit the profile of the potential twelve rippled with change until it was settled: an even split of men and women, seven black, five white.

The 12 alternates were seated and affirmed in a similar fashion.

In a moment of drama minutes after the jury were seated an alternate raised his hand and told the court 'Sir I can't do this. I've been up all night. I can't do this.'

After a brief discussion with the judge and counsel the juror was dismissed and another alternate seated and sworn in.

The jurors and alternates will, Judge Davis told them, 'Have to fight human nature' and it will be the hardest thing they have to do.

'You are going to want to talk about this [case],' he told them. 'You can't.'

Nor can they consult the internet, social media or be in the presence of anyone discussing the case. 'The key,' according to Judge Davis, 'is don't compromise yourself.'

Dominion claims Fox defamed the long-established voting firm by questioning its technology and methods after Donald Trump's November 2020 election loss to Joe Biden.

Jury selection in what shaped as the most-anticipated defamation trial in America was expected to conclude Monday before opening statements but Judge Davis on Sunday announced he was delaying the start 24 hours.

The lawsuit, filed in Delaware Superior Court, accuses Fox of 'giving life' to a 'manufactured storyline about election fraud' in its coverage of the 2020 U.S. presidential election.

Many legal experts are surprised Fox and Dominion have not already reached an out-of-court settlement, although they can at any time.

The media giant contends the $1.6 billion damages claim is a wild overestimate while the voting company has been accused of trying to inflict maximum embarrassment by exposing the network's internal communications following the election.

Fox Corp chairman, Rupert Murdoch, was expected to be one of the first witnesses called before a parade of executives and on-air hosts, including Carlson, Sean Hannity and Jeanine Pirro.

The evidence includes recordings of Rudy Giuliani, former President Trump's lawyer, saying in pre-taped Fox appearances that he did not have any evidence to back up the false allegations of election rigging by Dominion in the 2020 race that are at the heart of the lawsuit.

The recordings were made by a former Fox employee who is currently suing the network.

Fox defamed the voting firm by questioning their technology and methods after Trump lost to Joe Biden in the 2020 presidential election, Dominion claims

The voting company says the claims were part of a calculated bid by the network to 'lure viewers back' after they lost loyal fans because they were the first to declare that Trump had lost the state of Arizona.

Dominion, which was founded in 2002 and had, until 2020, operated largely unknown in 28 states in America said 'Fox endorsed, repeated and broadcast a series of verifiably false yet devastating lies about Dominion.'

These included claims that the company committed election fraud by rigging the 2020 presidential election, that its software and algorithms manipulated vote counts, that it was owned by a company founded in Venezuela to rig elections for former president Hugo Chavez, and that it paid 'kickbacks' to government officials who used its machines in the 2020 election.

Dominion claims Fox knew these claims were false but 'recklessly disregarded the truth,' as its hosts including Hannity, Pirro, Carlson, Lou Dobbs, and Maria Bartiromo, gave it oxygen.

The suit slams the network for allowing guests such as Sidney Powell, a lawyer denounced by the Trump team, Giuliani and MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell on air to peddle conspiracy theories regarding election fraud unchallenged and unchecked.

Dominion's lawyers allege the false claims were promoted on Fox's news channels and online to its 80million subscribers ensuring the 'lies' went viral as people tweeted and retweeted them and that, ultimately, they were seen by billions.

The voting company says it lost millions in unrenewed state contracts as a result and anger generated by claims of a 'stolen election' put company personnel in physical danger which required $600,000 in additional security measures.

Fox News hosts Tucker Carlson, Sean Hannity, Jeanine Pirro, and other on-air stars, were deposed in the case last year. The lawsuit claims the hosts helped perpetuate election fraud lies on air

Jeanine Pirro interviewing Trump lawyer Sidney Powell, who is also being sued by Dominion in a separate lawsuit. They are pictured on November 14, 2020

The suit also slams the network for allowing guests such as former New York mayor and Trump cohort, Rudy Giuliani and MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell on air to peddle conspiracy theories about voter fraud unchallenged and unchecked

Fox Corp, which reported nearly $14 billion in annual revenue last year, said the lawsuit was a threat to press freedom and the $1.6 billion figure unrealistic and based on flawed economic modeling.

'While Dominion has pushed irrelevant and misleading information to generate headlines, Fox News remains steadfast in protecting the rights of a free press,' Fox said in a statement.

Fox had argued that coverage of the vote-rigging claims was inherently newsworthy and protected by the U.S. Constitution's First Amendment guarantee of press freedom.

Judge Davis rejected that argument in a ruling last month on both parties' competing motions for summary judgment.

Fox said Dominion cannot pin actual malice on the individuals whom Dominion says were responsible for the defamatory statements.

The network said Dominion must prove that a 'superior officer' at the network or its parent company 'ordered, participated in, or ratified' wrongdoing.

Texts and emails revealed as part of the litigation appear to indicate that several people at Fox had doubts about the election fraud claims.

Carlson, in a text to host Laura Ingraham in November 2020, said 'Sidney Powell is lying by the way. I caught her. It's insane.'

In a later text he wrote: 'It's unbelievably offensive to me. Our viewers are good people, and they believe it.'

In another text political correspondent Bret Baier wrote, 'There is NO evidence of fraud.'

Murdoch himself has also conceded that some Fox hosts, 'endorsed' the 'false notion' that the 2020 election was stolen and that he personally could have done more to prevent claims from airing.

But lawyers for the network maintain that there is no evidence of a high-level conspiracy to peddle a falsehood, or that Murdoch and his colleagues were, 'reckless with the truth.'
Schmidt had been arrested before for his hate-filled rants and crude behavior

Schmidt and his sidekick, who was not identified, was harrassing people at the 'Read with Pride' book display

Ethan Schmidt, 24, an anti-LGTBQ extremist, mocked shoppers at the Barnes & Noble bookstore on Monday

An Arizona man was kicked out of a Barnes & Noble store for filming himself harassing people browsing its LGBT pride section about their vaccination status.

Ethan Schmidt, 24, a right wing provocateur and anti-LGTBQ extremist, mocked and bullied shoppers with his vitriolic rhetoric at the 'Read with Pride' book display on Monday before getting kicked out of the store by a manager.

The disturbing footage posted on Reddit shows Schmidt - who once shared his desire to 'hunt' gay people - visit the store with an unidentified friend, then asking an employee if there is a gay pride section for children.

When he's told there is a pride section, but that it doesn't contain children's books, Schmidt walks over to the stand while muttering angrily about gay people.

'Here's the gay loser Pride section,' he snarls. Two young girls browsing the books on the table appear both surprised and annoyed before walking away.

'Just really tempted to just kick it down man,' he says to his sidekick as he refers to the display's center placement as a 'satanic shrine.'

The store manager, named Ryan, is seen rushing over and and telling Schmidt to leave the premises as he raises his hand in a blocking motion.

Two young girls browsing the books on the table, appear both surprised and annoyed, as Schmidt goes on a vile rant before walking away

Ethan Schmidt, a 24-year-old right wing provocateur and anti-LGTBQ extremist, has been arrested a number of times for his violent rhetoric

'Here's the gay loser Pride section,' he quips after he asked a store employee (pictured) where the pride section for children is located. Two young girls browsing the books on the table, appear both surprised and annoyed, as Schmidt makes derisive comments

The store manager named Ryan is seen in the footage telling Schmidt that he needs to leave the store. In this photo his hand is out as if he is blocking the anti-LGBTQ extremist

His thug friend then describes the table the books are sitting on as 'unstable,' before he spews, '....much like their ideology.'

Schmidt continues to rage, approaching a young couple asking about their COVID vaccination status.

'Excuse me ...yo vaccinated ... yo get the COVID-19,' he asks while making a shushing sound.

The couple, who were not identified, respond by shaking their heads and responding, 'Yes!' before Schmidt blurts out, 'natural selection they said folks.'

In the next clip, the store manager, who clearly knew who Schmidt was, is seen rushing over to the duo. 'Ethan Schmidt...Ethan Schmidt.'

'I am going to have to ask you to leave, so if you would,' the manager straining a smile as he appears irate as he makes a hand gesture towards the door.'

Schmidt, who didn't seem to flinch said, 'What's wrong,?...What's wrong? You don't like Ethan Schmidt ...We exposed all your woke s**t!'

The manager responds 'That's fine.'

Schmidt counters, 'We already exposed it.'

As the extremist left the store with the store's security wishing him a good day, Schmidts friend tries to make his friend more furious.

'They teamed up on you,' he said.

'Do you think they knew you? They figured it out who you were pretty quickly.

Schmidt responded: 'Yeah, they know who I am,' he said. 'All these employees of these woks stores now know who I am.'

The couple, who were not identified, respond by shaking their heads and responding, 'Yes!' When Schmidt asks if they got their COVID-19 vaccination before blurting out, 'natural selection they said folks'

Schmidt's sidekick who was not identified is seen here harrassing and bullying people in the store

Schmidt was arrested on June 11 for failure to appear in court regarding a charge against or 'failure to comply with the law. Previously, he threatened to 'hunt' LGBTQ rights supporters in a video posted to Twitter on May 21.

In a second video, he harassed Target employees about the company's pride-themed campaign for Pride Month.

In July, he was removed from a PetSmart branch property after he asked the cashier to take down a Pride flag hanging near the cash register.

He also appeared at a March for Our Lives protest in Phoenix holding an AR-15 rifle counter-protesting to a rally for stricter gun laws following the mass shootings taking place in the nation.

'They're not going to ever take away our guns,' he wrote in a May 21 tweet before he was arrested.
The Royal British Legion has ditched single-use plastic for its Remembrance Poppy - and will use recycled paper made from offcuts of discarded coffee cups instead.

The first change to the iconic poppy in 28 years, tests have shown it will reduce carbon emissions by 40 per cent.

It will be made entirely from paper, removing the plastic green stem and black centre.

The red and green paper used to create the historic symbol uses renewable fibres from responsible sources - with half recovered from the waste in the production of coffee cups.

Andy Taylor-Whyte, Poppy Appeal Director at the Royal British Legion said: 'We're so proud to unveil our plastic-free poppy, which is completely recyclable, and hope that this will encourage more people than ever to take part in this year's Poppy Appeal and show support to our Armed Forces community.

The first change to the iconic poppy in 28 years, tests have shown it will reduce carbon emissions by 40 per cent

The red and green paper used to create the historic symbol uses renewable fibres from historical sources - with half recovered from the waste in the production of coffee cups.

'After years of work and collaboration with our partners designing a new poppy, creating new paper and machinery and road-testing it for durability and colour-fastness, we have been able to eliminate single-use plastic and create a poppy that is an enduring symbol of respect and remembrance as well as being more planet-friendly.

'We'd like to encourage everyone to get a poppy this year when they become available.

'The money raised will allow us to provide expert advice and guidance to support the Armed Forces community across a wide range of issues including mobility, homelessness, life challenges such as family breakdowns, and mental health.'

In a bid that will also see the remembrance flower be more economical, the poppy will now be able to be recycled in ordinary household collections.

The new design has the traditional poppy shape and leaf, complete with an ebossed black centre showing the words 'Poppy Appeal'.

Wearers will be able to put it in their buttonhole, fasten it to shirts with a pin or use a stick on version.

It will be on sale from October alongside remaining stocks of the current poppy, to stop wasting any that have already been produced.

The new plastic-free poppy will be the biggest change to its design since 1995 - when poppies with leaves were made available for the first time.

The new poppy will be made entirely from paper, removing the plastic green stem and black centre

It was created in collaborations with designers Matter and bespoke paper supplier James Cropper.

University College London's Department of Chemical Engineering conducted a Life Cycle Assessment on the new poppy to understand the environmental impacts of the change in materials - finding it would cut carbon emissions by 40 per cent.

Professor Paola Lettieri said: 'We appreciate the significance of the poppy and were delighted to be invited to assess the plastic-free poppy's environmental impact and to suggest how it could be made more sustainable.

'We looked at its carbon footprint and factors like how much water and resources go into making it, in what's called a Life Cycle Assessment.

'By replacing the single-use plastic with a paper-based design, and increasing the amount of recycled paper used, UCL found that the new poppy design has a 40% smaller carbon footprint and a similar reduction in its overall impact on the environment.'

The Royal British Legion supports tens of thousands of armed forces personnel, veterans, and their families every year on issues including homelessness, financial support and mental health.

The Poppy appeal - which was first held in 1921 - takes place from October 26 to Sunday November 12.

Inspired by the poem In Flanders Fields, they sold out instantly in their first year raising 106,000.

Last year they supported 2,500 families through financial difficulties.

All parts of the previous poppy were also recyclable, with wearers dropping them off at Sainsbury's supermarkets.
Former Director of National Intelligence John Ratcliffe said that the intelligence community did not admit that COVID-19 came from a lab in China because it did not want to side with Donald Trump.

Ratcliffe, testifying before the House Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic Tuesday morning, said that he didn't feel that intelligence agencies were being fully truthful when it came to the origins of the virus.

The Trump-era DNI pushed for those within the intelligence community (IC) to 'put politics aside' and 'speak the truth about what happened' that led to the COVID-19 outbreak.

'The challenges that I and other senior Trump administration officials encountered while in office included legitimate concerns about our closely held sources and methods of intelligence, as well as illegitimate roadblocks that related to professional conflicts of interest and partisan politics,' Ratcliffe said during his opening statement to the panel on Tuesday.

Former Director of National Intelligence John Ratcliffe (pictured testifying before the COVID-19 origins panel Tuesday) said Biden and the intelligence community don't want to assess that COVID-19 originated from a Chinese lab because it would have 'enormous geopolitical implications' and confirm that Donald Trump was right

He said that there is overwhelming proof that COVID-19 was created and leaked from the Wuhan Institute of Virology in Wuhan, China

He added that the confusion was furthered 'when a lab leak assessment was initially labeled falsely and falsely reported with near unanimity as a conspiracy theory by conflicted science, scientists and by mainstream press, while also being censored as disinformation by social media giants.'

Ratcliffe said that the IC and Biden administration doesn't want to release proof that the virus originated in China both because it would confirm Trump's claims and because it could have 'enormous geopolitical implications' with the Chinese Communist Party.

The testimony comes the day after yet another congressional report on the origins of the virus was published on Monday.

The 300-page report from a subcommittee of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee concluded that the pandemic was likely caused by at least two lab leaks from the Wuhan Institute of Virology in China.

Panel member Sen. Roger Marshall, ranking member of the Primary Health and Retirement Security Subcommittee published the bombshell report, which notes there are no known naturally-occurring incidents of COVID-19.

Marshall, a doctor by trade, said the report is crucial in 'exposing the deception of those that sought to conceal how this pandemic started.'

The report says the theory claiming COVID-19 jumped from animals to humans can no longer hold the 'presumption of accuracy.'

Ratcliffe appeared at the hearing alongside Trump-era State Department official David Feith, who was deputy assistant Secretary in the Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs, and Dr. Mark Lowenthal, who served as assistant director of Central Intelligence for Analysis and Production.

Trump was accused by Democrats during the hearing of stoking racial hatred by calling the virus the 'China virus' and 'Kung Flu' while asserting his claims that the COVID-19 virus was created as a bioweapon in the Wuhan lab

Despite years of trying to assert that the virus came from another means other than a lab leak from Wuhan, China, Ratcliffe notes that three-and-a-half years into the pandemic, the only conclusion that can be made is that it originated in the lab.

'Internally, national and electoral politics were also influencing the analysis of our intelligence on China within the IC as reflected in the January 6, 2021 report by the intelligence community's analytic Ombudsman,' Ratcliffe noted. 'As a career non political official, the Ombudsman found, quote, analysts appeared reluctant to have their analysis on China brought forward because they tend to disagree with the Trump administration's policies, saying in effect, 'I don't want our intelligence used to support those policies,' end quote.'

But Ratcliffe says the CIA does have a conclusion, but just refuses to release it because it would confirm claims Trump and conservatives were making all along.

'To this day, the CIA, which I believe is unquestionably the world's premier spy agency with an unrivaled capacity to acquire information, has continued to state that it does not have enough information to make any formal assessment,' Ratcliffe said.

'Put it bluntly, I think this is unjustifiable and a reflection  not that the agency can't make an assessment with any competence  but that it won't.'

He continued: 'Some three and a half years later, the only plausible assessment the agency could make with any level of confidence is that a virus which killed over a million Americans originated in a Chinese lab, whose research included work for the Chinese military  and such an assessment would obviously have enormous geopolitical implications that I believe the current administration does not want to face head on.'

Democrats on the COVID-19 origins panel said during the hearing Tuesday that Trump tried to stoke racial division by calling coronavirus the 'China Virus' and 'Kung Flu', something that GOP panel member Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene vehemently contended.
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell told colleagues Tuesday he won't help Democrats temporarily replace Sen. Dianne Feinstein while the 89-year old battles shingles.

He addressed the request he called 'extremely unusual' even as he hailed Feinstein as a 'titanic figure.'

But McConnell, who is himself back from an absence after getting a concussion, indicated he was having no part easing the Democrats' predicament, even as he wished his colleague a 'speedy recovery.'

Democrats have complained that with Feinstein gone, it has become cumbersome to move President Biden's nominees through Judiciary. With the House in GOP hands, moving nominations is a key way Biden can impact the nation's agenda for years to come.

Senate Republicans 'will not take part in sidelining' Sen. Dianne Feinstein off the Judiciary Committee on a temporary basis,' said Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell. The 89-year old Californian is battling shingles

But her absence 'has really not ground the Judiciary Committee to a halt,' McConnell said on the Senate floor. He said the panel had reported out more than 50 nominees.

'So the administration does not face any obstacle to moving nominees who are remotely qualified for the job,' he said. 'And yet some of the same far-left voices who attacked Sen. Feinstein in the past are now suggesting that she Senate move her off the Judiciary Committee indefinitely  indefinitely,' he said.

He said Senate Republicans 'will not take part in sidelining' a member off a committee on a temporary basis 'just so Democrats can force through their very worst nominees,' and pointed to four who are being held up.

His comments came after Senate Republicans warned they would block Democrats from sliding Feinstein out of her Judiciary Committee role amid demands that she resign due to her advanced age.

Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) has missed a series of votes while battling shingles. Republicans might not let Democrats take her off the powerful Judiciary Committee in order to keep President Biden's judicial nominees stalled

Following calls for the longtime California Democrat to step down as she continues to miss votes with a case of shingles, party leaders made arrangements to get her off the panel so that majority Democrats can keep confirming federal judges through the narrowly divided Senate.

But any change requires Republicans to go along, and Arkansas GOP Sen. Tom Cotton made his own views known over the weekend.

'Republicans should not assist Democrats in confirming Joe Biden's most radical nominees to the courts,' he wrote, tweeting and article in the conservative publication The Federalist which argued there was 'zero reason' for them to assist.

Cotton's hardline stance came as senators were returning to Washington after a recess, after a prominent Democrat again called on Feinstein to step down.

Feinstein faced new calls for her to resign her seat last month, after she was hospitalized for shingles and missed a series of committee votes. Pennsylvania Democratic Sen. John Fetterman, who has missed weeks of votes while seeking in-patient treatment for depression, was set to return to the Senate Monday.

The absences have hobbled the majority's ability to move nominations.

Feinstein is refusing to step down, but said days ago she has asked Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to appoint a temporary replacement for her on Judiciary.

She has already said she won't seek re-election in 2024 after a series of reports about her difficulties particulars about legislation or personnel in Congress.

Republicans have the ability to try to block the move: any single senator could object to a Schumer request for 'unanimous consent' to make the move. Party leaders could then try to push the change through on a vote, but rules would require them to obtain 60 votes to make the change.

Democrats have faced challenges in the 51-49 Senate, with absences by Feinstein and Pennsylvania's John Fetterman, who returned to the U.S. Capitol Monday following six weeks of treatment for clinical depression.

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., center, walks to the Senate Chamber, Monday, April 17, 2023, on Capitol Hill in Washington, after almost six weeks away after a fall at a Washington-area hotel and extended treatment for a concussion. He has yet to reveal whether he would seek to block Democrats from shifting Feinstein off Judiciary, where her absences have stalled President Biden's nomiantions

Sen. Tom Cotton indicated he won't go along with an effort by Democrats to take the ailing senators off the Judiciary Committee on a temporary basis

McConnell, who has himself been absent for weeks after taking a fall at a fundraiser at the former Trump hotel, was identified as a key figure in the matter, only returning to the Senate Monday after suffering a concussion.

McConnell, 81, considers himself an institutionalist who said he held Trump responsible for January 6. But one of his principal achievements has been helping remake the judiciary through bitter floor flights  including killing the nomination of Merrick Garland to the Supreme Court during the Obama administration.

But it is an issue that could one day bounce back at McConnell, 81, who hopes to reclaim the majority next year with his own aging cohort. Senior Republican, Charles Grassley, 89, had hip surgery just 10 days into his new six-year term.

If Republicans nix the move, it but the issue right back the Democrats' court, where California progressive Rep. Ro Khanna on Sunday kept up his calls for Feinstein to step down.

He called on Gov. Gavin Newsom to appoint a 'caretaker' senator to fill the seat.

'He doesn't have to appoint someone in the current race' to succeed her, Khanna said on Fox News Sunday. 'I would support the governor doing that. This has nothing to do with the current race, because a caretaker would solve that.'
Former President Donald Trump has clinched the endorsement of three more Florida House members, with GOP Reps. Greg Steube, John Rutherford and Brian Mast backing his 2024 White House run this week.

Trump has now picked off seven members of the Sunshine State's congressional delegation over Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who has yet to announce a presidential campaign but has been spending time in early primary states.

Before this week, Florida Republican Reps. Matt Gaetz, Anna Paulina Luna, Cory Mills and Byron Donalds had endorsed Trump.

Overall, there are 20 Republicans in Florida's 28 member delegation.

Steube explained his choice for the White House because 'Trump's the only person that can reverse, on day one, all these disastrous policies of the Biden administration.'

DeSantis should 'concentrate on the great job that he's doing' as Florida's governor, Steube suggested.

Former President Donald J. Trump is racking up presidential endorsements including six House members from Florida

Representative Greg Steube (R-Florida) just announced his endorsement of Donald Trump for the 2024 election

Rutherford said he was backing Trump because, in his opinion, the former president has been unfairly targeted by the justice system.

'As a former Sheriff, I understand the importance of a fair and impartial system of justice,' he tweeted on Tuesday. 'The systematic targeting of Americans with conservative ideals, especially our 45th President of the United States, disgraces our nation's legacy.'

Mast told CNN Tuesday that he planned to back Trump and would chair the 'Veterans for Trump' group.

Meanwhile, DeSantis doesn't seem to be backing off exploring a presidential bid as he meets with Republican members of Congress on Capitol Hill, making the back-to-back endorsements from three Florida lawmakers, particularly awkward.

From D.C., he'll head to South Carolina, the state that hosts the first southern primary, and headline events in Charleston and Spartanburg.

DeSantis returns to the Hill on Friday for a speech at a Heritage Foundation event.

So far, three GOP House members, Thomas Massie of Kentucky, Chip Roy of Texas and Laurel Lee of Florida, who used to work as DeSantis' Secretary of State, have endorsed a DeSantis presidential bid.

Trump has received the endorsement of 45 House members, nine senators and one governor - Gov. Henry McMaster of South Carolina.

GOP Florida Rep. John Rutherford also endorsed Trump over DeSantis for president

Republican Florida Rep. Brian Mast told CNN Tuesday that he planned to endorse Trump for president

To date, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has received the endorsement of three GOP House members

FLORIDA HOUSE MEMBERS SUPPORTING TRUMP Rep. Matt Gaetz Rep. Byron Donalds Rep. Anna Paulina Luna Rep. Brian Mast Rep. Cory Mills Rep. John Rutherford Rep. Greg Steube Advertisement

Meanwhile, two prominent Republicans from South Carolina - former Gov. Nikki Haley and Sen. Tim Scott - have announced their intentions to run.

Haley announced a bid in February, while Scott said he was forming an exploratory committee earlier this month.

Trump has been trying to siphon off donors and endorsements from other candidates so next year's primary can conclude early.

Gaetz encouraged DeSantis and Sen. Ted Cruz, who ran against Trump in 2016, to quickly endorse Trump during a speech he delivered at Trump's Waco, Texas rally last month.

'Only Donald Trump could have rescued us from Hillary Clinton. Without Trump doing three rallies in the final week of the 2018 election in Florida, my governor today would probably be Andrew Gillum,' Gaetz said, referencing DeSantis's 2018 Democratic rival.

'So, Ron DeSantis, Ted Cruz: patriots of the MAGA movement delivered for you in your time of need,' Gaetz said. 'Today, Ron DeSantis and Ted Cruz should endorse Donald Trump for president and stand with us as we were so proud to stand with them.'
New York City is the richest city in the world, boasting more millionaires than any other place on the planet, a new study has found.

As of 2023, NYC was home to 340,000 millionaires, along with 58 billionaires.

Tokyo claimed number two spot with 290,000 millionaires, and 14 billionaires while the San Francisco Bay Area came in at number three with 285,000 millionaires, but a much higher count of billionaires with 63.

The findings were compiled by the investment group Henley & Partners and looked at data from 97 cities across the world.

The data considered population counts for millionaires and billionaires in the cities, as well as the percentage growth of high-net-worth individuals in those cities from 2012 to 2022.

New York City was found to be the wealthiest city in the world with 340,000 millionaires

Japanese billionaire Tadashi Yanai (left) lives in Tokyo, and billionaire Michael Bloomberg (right) lives in New York City

There were three US cities in the top ten globally - NYC, the Bay Area, and Los Angeles - along with three Chinese cities including Hong Kong.

California, with two cities in the top ten, is also home to many of the most well-known millionaires and billionaires. Kim Kardashian calls Los Angeles home, and Mark Zuckerberg lives in the Bay Area.

Over on the east coast New York City, home to billionaire Michael Bloomberg, easily takes top billing.

After New York City, Tokyo, and the Bay Area, London took the number four spot for most millionaires globally with 258,000. The city also had 36 billionaires.

Japanese billionaire Tadashi Yanai, who founded the parent company of Uniqlo, lives in Tokyo, Japan - the number two spot globally with 290,000 millionaires.

Singapore landed at number five with 240,100 millionaires and 27 billionaires, then Los Angles was number six with 205,400 millionaires and 42 billionaires.

China held the seventh, eighth and ninth spots with Hong Kong's 129,500 millionaires and 32 billionaires, Beijing's 128,200 millionaires and 43 billionaires, and Shainghai's 127,200 millionaires and 40 billionaires.

Coming in at number ten globally was Sydney, Australia, with 126,900 millionaires and 15 billionaires.

In just the United States, NYC, the Bay Area, and Los Angeles held the top three spots for most millionaires, with Chicago coming in at number four with 124,000 millionaires and 24 billionaires.

Tokyo, Japan landed in the number two spot globally with 290,000 millionaires

Kim Kardashian calls Los Angeles home, and Mark Zuckerberg lives in the Bay Area

Houston had the fifth most millionaires at 98,500 - along with 20 billionaires - and Seattle took the sixth-place spot with 50,500 millionaires and 10 billionaires.

In the seventh, eighth, and ninth spots in the US were Boston with 41,700 millionaires and 8 billionaires, Miami with 38,000 millionaires, 12 billionaires, and Austin with 30,500 millionaires and 9 billionaires.

Las Vegas took tenth place with 16,800 millionaires and 6 billionaires.

Out of the top 50 wealthiest cities in the world, the United States beat out all other countries with a total of 10 cities in top spots. China came next with five cities in the top 50 globally. Australia trailed close behind with four cities in the top 50.

Hangzhou, China, led the world with the highest surge of high-net-worth individuals since 2012 with a 105 percent increase, while Austin, Texas, trailed close behind with a 102 percent increase.

Next was Shenzen, China, with a 98 percent increase, West Palm Beach, Florida, with a 90 percent increase, and Scottsdale Arizona, with an 88 percent increase.

The San Francisco bay area had more billionaires than any other city in the world with 63

Other global cities in the top ten for high-net-worth growth were Bengaluru, India, Guangzhou, China, Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, and Hyderabad, India. Miami landed in the 11th spot with a 75 percent increase since 2012.

Conversely, Russia held the greatest loss of high-net-worth individuals with a 45 percent decrease, and St. Petersburg trailed close behind with a 38 percent decline.

Hong Kong lost 27 percent of its high-net-worth individuals since 2012, and the United Kingdom cities London and Edinburgh lost 15 and 12 percent of theirs.
Elon Musk's latest Twitter spat has seen Canada's national broadcaster boycott the platform after the Tesla billionaire added a label saying '69% government funded.'

The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) and its sister network Radio Canada said they'd stop tweeting on their official accounts Monday in response to the label.

Musk's label is almost accurate - the CBC received 65.2 per cent of its $1.2bn CAD ($900m USD) - from Canada's government in the last financial year.

But bosses there are angry Musk has implied they're not editorially-independent, with the tycoon previously prompting a similar boycott from NPR after flagging its government funding.

Last year, a former staffer walked out of CBC and blew the whistle on what she claimed was a fixation with progressive social justice issues and dishonest reporting slanted in favor of left-wing causes.

A new label applied to the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation's Twitter profile labeled it 69 percent government-funded, prompting a boycott from the broadcaster

Canadian PM Justin Trudeau criticized the leader of the Conservative Party of Canada, Pierre Poilievre, who initially wrote to Musk last week suggesting the CBC should be labeled government-funded

Elon Musk is pictured with his son X  A-Xii at the POSSIBLE marketing conference in Miami Tuesday

On Monday, Canadian PM Justin Trudeau criticized both the move and the leader of Conservative Party of Canada, Pierre Poilievre, who initially wrote to Musk last week suggesting label should apply to the CBC.

Labels applied to Twitter profiles in recent years have become a point of contention - well before Musk took over the social media platform last year - but they were previously mainly associated with propaganda outlets in Russia and China.

Last week NPR and PBS in the US also quit Twitter after Musk branded them 'government-funded media' and accused them of not being 'editorially independent'.

Similarly the BBC successfully lobbied to have its 'government-funded tag' removed earlier this month and Musk eventually obliged by replacing it with 'publicly-funded media'.

The controversy in Canada began last week when the Poilievre, sent an open letter to Musk saying the label should be applied to the CBC 'in the interest of transparency'.

Then on Sunday, some CBC Twitter feeds started carrying the label 'government-funded Media.'

The CBC replied that it is not government funded, but that it is 'publicly funded through a parliamentary appropriation that is voted upon by all Members of Parliament'.

Critics said that was indeed the definition of government funding.

The CBC's board of directors determines how the funding it receives is spent. Then on Monday the CBC said it would pause its Twitter activities over the labeling.

'Our journalism is impartial and independent. To suggest otherwise is untrue. That is why we are pausing our activities on @Twitter,' the CBC said.

The move caused Trudeau to attack his Conservative opponent Poilievre.

Speaking to reporters that day, Trudeau said: 'Attacking this Canadian institution, attacking the culture and local content that is so important to so many Canadians, really indicates the values and the approach that Mr. Poilievre is putting forward.

In 2021-22, the CBC received more than $1.2 billion Canadian in government funding

A 'community note' fact-checking tag clarified under Musk's tweet that over 2021-2022 the corporation was around 66 percent government-funded

'In order to attack this institution that is important for many, many Canadians, he runs to American billionaires, the tech giants that they continue to defend,' he added.

Musk even responded to a clip of Trudeau speaking, saying: 'Whats he talking about and why is it sponsored by Eriks son?'

He was presumably referring to the fact that behind Trudeau was branding for telecommunications company Ericsson.

Trudeau's comments cam during a conference announcing that the Canadian federal government was embarking on a $470-million five-year research and development partnership with Ericsson Canada.

Musk also then poked fun at the CBC by revising its label again.

'Canadian Broadcasting Corp said they're 'less than 70% government-funded', so we corrected the label,' wrote Musk on Twitter later on Monday.

A 'community note' fact-checking tag clarified under Musk's tweet that over 2021-2022 the corporation was around 66 percent government-funded.

Last week, US broadcaster NPR said it would no longer post content to its 52 official Twitter feeds in protest against a 'government-funded' label.
The DUP today vowed not to be 'brow beaten' into a return to power-sharing in Northern Ireland following major interventions by Sir Tony Blair and the Clintons.

Party leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson insisted 'lecturing' by 'the great and the good' won't change 'political reality' as the DUP continue to boycott Stormont institutions.

Queen's University Belfast is hosting a three-day conference this week to mark the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement.

Sir Tony and Bertie Ahern, the ex-Labour prime minister and former taoiseach who both signed the historic 1998 peace deal, and Bill Clinton, the ex-US president, have all spoken at the conference.

His wife, Hillary Clinton - a former US secretary of state, is also in Belfast for the event, while Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris spoke to the conference this morning.

But Mr Heaton-Harris saw his address compared to 'a speech by a clueless Irish American congressman' as the DUP hit out at the increased pressure being placed on them to end Northern Ireland's current political crisis.

Sir Tony Blair and Bill and Hillary Clinton have all appeared at a Queen's University Belfast conference this week to mark the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement

Sir Tony and Mr Clinton were also joined on stage by former taoiseach Bertie Ahern, with all three men having played a key role in the signing of the historic 1998 peace deal

Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris saw his address to the conference compared to 'a speech by a clueless Irish American congressman'

Devolved government in Northern Ireland collapsed in February last year as the DUP escalated their protest against post-Brexit trade arrangements.

They have since resisted efforts to try and get them to resume power-sharing.

This is despite Rishi Sunak overhauling the Northern Ireland Protocol with his recent Windsor Framework agreement, with the DUP failing to support the Prime Minister's new deal with the EU.

Following the interventions in recent days by senior political figures to coincide with the Good Friday Agreement anniversary, Sir Jeffrey said: 'The great and the good can lecture us all they want for a cheap round of applause but it won't change the political reality.

'The political institutions only work when there is cross-community consensus.

'Berating unionists won't solve the problem. They didn't do it to Sinn Fein and we will not be treated differently or brow beaten into submission.

'The Government need to work with us to address concerns and get the outstanding issues resolved.

'We stand ready to get the job done and see Stormont restored. But it has to have a solid foundation.'

Yesterday, Sir Tony issued a plea to the DUP to return to power-sharing by telling the Belfast conference that Northern Ireland's current political leaders 'know in your heart of hearts, what the right thing to do is'.

'You should just get on and do it,' he added.

Mrs Clinton urged politicians in Northern Ireland to move forwards with 'the same spirit of unstoppable grit and resolve' that resulted in the Good Friday Agreement 25 years ago.

She added that 'peace, prosperity and progress  that so many have worked tirelessly to achieve  remains incomplete'.

DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson insisted 'lecturing' by 'the great and the good' won't change 'political reality' as the DUP continue to boycott Stormont institutions

In an interview with Sky News, Mrs Clinton has also suggested the DUP returning to power-sharing is 'very much in their interest'.

In a speech this morning, Mr Heaton-Harris added to the pressure on the DUP to end their boycott of Stormont by hailing how 'real leadership is about knowing when to say yes and having the courage to do so'.

'Devolved powersharing institutions created a status quo that those of us who value Northern Ireland's place in the Union can robustly and successfully promote and celebrate,' the Northern Ireland Secretary said.

'So let no-one tell you that powersharing is at any way at odds with unionism.

'Instead it is the surest way by which Northern Ireland's place in the Union can be secured.'

But DUP MP Gavin Robinson accused Mr Heaton-Harris of being 'patronising towards unionist concerns'.

'The Government must realise that getting the foundations right, supported by unionists as well as nationalists, rather than personal attacks and blackmail will restore Stormont,' he added.

'The Secretary of States rhetoric for the Queen's University Belfast audience was more akin to a speech by a clueless Irish American congressman rather than a UK Government Cabinet minister.

'This is about taking our time to get it right. We need stable and sustainable devolved government.'
A British man has been arrested over the death of a bouncer during a fracas at former TOWIE star Elliott Wright's troubled Spanish restaurant.

Detectives were said to have been closing in on the suspect earlier today after bodybuilder, personal trainer and bouncer Jose Rafael Pisani Pardo, 55, died in hospital on Sunday evening.

He had been admitted into an intensive care unit after suffering severe head injuries as he tried to break up a fight at Mr Wright's Olivia's La Cala restaurant in the resort of La Cala de Mijas near Fuengirola just after midnight that day.

The Costa del Sol eatery had been gutted in an arson attack two years ago, with CCTV footage handed to police showing two masked men with jerrycans breaking into the restaurant shortly before it went up in flames.

The popular restaurant was also targeted by vandals with insulting graffiti overnight, with abuse aimed at the former TOWIE star.

A British man has been arrested over the death of a bouncer during a fracas at former TOWIE star Elliott Wright's troubled Spanish restaurant

Detectives were said to have been closing in on the suspect earlier today and later arrested him

Elliott Wright has temporarily closed his restaurant in the resort of La Cala de Mijas for two days following Mr Pardo's death. The former TOWIE star is pictured at Olivia's La Cala

Father-of-two Jose Rafael Pisano Pardo, 55, (pictured) died in hospital on Sunday evening after suffering life-threatening injuries when he intervened in a fight at Olivia's La Cala restaurant in Marbella

Vandals used bright pink spray paint to write words in Spanish that included 'Mafia' and 'Asesino Elliott'- English for 'Killer Elliott.' It was not immediately clear this morning if Mr Wright, 43, had reported the attack to police and who could be behind it.

This afternoon, Civil Guard officers confirmed they had arrested a British man - and he was filmed being led away in handcuffs following the detention in Marbella.

The arrest was carried out with the help of an elite Civil Guard unit called GAR, which is a rapid action group.

The same unit was involved in the arrest last September of British national Johnny Morrissey, identified last April by US authorities as an alleged key member of the Irish-led Kinahan cartel.

Confirming today's arrest, a Civil Guard spokesman said: 'With regards to the death of a person following an assault, the Civil Guard in Mijas with the support of the GAR unit, have today arrested the alleged author in Marbella.

'He is a British national, who had been on the run since the incident.

'He has been arrested on suspicion of causing the death of the person who lost his life following the incident at a restaurant in La Cala de Mijas.'

Officers have said the man, who has not been named and has been identified is 32-years-old.

Locals have targeted former TOWIE star Elliott Wright's Spanish restaurant with graffiti calling him a 'killer' less than two days after his doorman was killed while trying to break up a fight

Olivia's La Cala went up in flames in the early hours of April 26, 2021 in an arson attack which is still being investigated and is never believed to have led to any arrests. Pictured: The scene of the fire

TOWIE star Elliott Wright's is pictured in 2021 surveying the scene of the fire at his restaurant

It is not yet clear when he will appear in court, although the hearing is expected to take place behind closed doors tomorrow or Friday.

A judge will have to decide whether to remand him in custody or free him on bail pending an ongoing investigation.

It will not become clear until after the hearing whether the judge will decide to place him under investigation for homicide or manslaughter.

Late yesterday, insiders confirmed police were hunting a British man amid unconfirmed reports Venezuelan-born Jose had been pushed or punched and lost his balance as he tried to restore calm.

Father-of-three Mr Wright has closed his restaurant for two days and admitted in a statement released on Olivia's Instagram site published yesterday: 'Our hearts are broken and we have closed the restaurant today and tomorrow out of respect.

'We are supporting our staff and the family whilst awaiting news of further investigations.'

Jessie J is pictured with Mr Wright and his wife Sadie Stuart at the Olivia's La Cala restaurant

Dan Edgar and his girlfriend Amber Turner are pictured with friend Gary Barker at the Olivia's La Cala restaurant

Love island star is pictured with TOWIE stars Georgia Harrison, Rebecca Gormley, Biggs-Marvin, Chris Shaughna Phillips at the Olivia's La Cala restaurant

The victim was a proud father to two grown-up children believed to be from a previous relationship.

He married a personal trainer and gym instructor in Las Vegas in November last year.

Romina Acuna described her new fitness fanatic husband as the 'love of my life' in an emotional social media post after they wed and posed for photos before getting into a white stretch Limousine.

She moved to Mijas on the Costa del Sol at the start of 2021 from her previous base in Barcelona and the couple enjoyed a holiday together in Chile before tying the knot.

Officers took away CCTV footage from Mr Wright's eatery on Sunday after interviewing staff.

Later the same day the restaurant boss and his colleagues learned of Jose's death at the Malaga Regional University Hospital.

He had been working as a doorman at Olivia's La Cala for the past two years.

The results of a post-mortem believed to have taken place yesterday have not been revealed and are not expected to be officially made public but instead sent to an investigating judge heading an ongoing judicial probe into Jose's death.

Jose Rafael Pisano Pardo was knocked unconscious and evacuated in a serious condition to a hospital in Malaga, Spain where he was admitted to intensive care. He died on Sunday

Unconfirmed local reports have pointed to the doorman (pictured) receiving a punch as he tried to intervene in the fight which led to him hitting his head on the corner of a table as he fell and lost his balance

Local reports say the doorman hit his head on the corner of a table as he tried to intervene in a fracas.

But well-placed sources said he hit the back of his head directly on the floor and not a table, saying he went down as he tried to eject one of the unruly customers.

One said: 'The local reports talk of a group of people fighting but it was between two people.

'The doorman went down as he tried to eject one of the two men.'

Another added: 'Elliott had a great relationship with the dead guy and is devastated at what's happened. He had worked for him for two years.

'There was an argument between two people in the restaurant and he's fallen on the floor and hit his head after intervening.

'It looks like he slipped after one of the guys he was kicking out pushed or punched him but that's something the police are still investigating.

The restaurant released a statement on Instagram yesterday paying tribute to Mr Pardo

'He landed awkward and banged his head as he fell backwards. The ambulance took about 45 minutes to an hour to come and he was rushed to hospital.

'He had swelling on the brain and brain damage because of a lack of oxygen and they said at the hospital he was brain dead. They switched the machines off on Sunday.

'Earlier the same day police took all the camera footage away and took down statements from the staff.'

Olivia's La Cala went up in flames in the early hours of April 26, 2021, in an arson attack which is still being investigated and is never believed to have led to any arrests.

The restaurant, which opened in August 2015, had to close so it could be rebuilt.

The devastating blaze occurred just five weeks after Mr Wright's father Edward George died from coronavirus.
Another Hardees in Kansas also announced it was closed indefinitely

The fast food chain in Fort Mill shut down on Monday after four decades

A beloved Hardees in South Carolina that has been open since the 1970s has shut down without warning.

The downtown Fort Mill's fast food joint unexpectedly closed on Monday after serving customers for more than four decades.

Staff received a call in the morning notifying them that the store would be shutting immediately and were instructed to keep only the drive-thru open until the end of the day, the chain general manager told CN2.

Restaurant employees were not given a reason for the closure and were waiting to hear back from headquarters about the status of their jobs. Hardees wasn't immediately available for comment.

Residents were quick to point out that its rival McDonalds was still in the area - but many said they had always preferred to eat at Hardees.

A Fort Mill, South Carolina Hardees closed without warning leaving employees jobless

While the fast food stop officially its doors, a McDonald's up the road remains open

A second Hardees restaurant in Topeka, Kansas, also confirmed its closure on Monday. Residents who turned up were met with a note on the door directing them to another location nearby, according to 13 NEWS.

Disappointed customers were quick to share their grief over the loss of the cherished restaurant on social media.

One customer from Kansas commented under an old social media post from September that read: 'Now that you know we exist... you should really try our pillowy biscuits'.

The loyal customer responded on Monday: 'I can't anymore my Hardee's closed permanently as of 2pm today.'

Another person Twitted at the company asking why they were closing locations despite advertising open positions.

'How come so many locations are closing down without saying anything even right after they were just hiring?'

Others got into a friendly discussion about whether McDonald's or Hardees was better.

'McDonald tastes like cardboard,' one person wrote.

To which another responded: 'Except beef Big Mac!'

Meanwhile, a loyal Hardees fan chimed in, 'That is also not very tasty. I prefer Hardees.'

The closures shocked several customers, who rushed to Hardees Twitter to confirm the news

Earlier this month it was revealed many fast food chains were shutting down across the country as they seek to cut costs.

Although modern chains like Chick Fil-A and Sweetgreen have successfully captured swathes of the US restaurant market, some legacy outlets were irreversibly damaged by the Covid pandemic and labor shortages.

To keep up, some stores deployed touchscreen ordering systems to reduce staff requirements but ultimately many brands and large franchisees were forced to declare bankruptcy.

Some massive chains shutting down restaurants throughout the US include, Applebee's, Boston Market, Buffalo Wild Wings, Burger King, Cracker Barrel, Denny's, Friendly's, IHOP, Jack in the Box, Ruby Tuesday, Steak 'n Shake, Subway, TGI Friday and Quinzos.
Ralph Yarl, 16, was rushed to hospital after being shot in the head and arm when he approached the property in Kansas City, Missouri, on April 13

A warrant for his arrest was issued on Monday, after being charged with first-degree assault and armed criminal action

The elderly white homeowner accused of shooting black teenager Ralph Yarl twice has been arrested after handing himself in.

Andrew Lester, 84, surrendered to Clay Countys Detention Centre in Kansas City, Missouri, on Tuesday afternoon.

The retired aircraft mechanic is facing life in jail after being charged with first-degree assault and armed criminal action.

Yarl, 16, was shot twice through the door of Lester's home, which is just a block away from the property his younger twin brothers were waiting to be picked up from.

The suspect was first arrested and released hours after the shooting on April 14, when he told police that he was 'scared to death' after seeing Yarl standing at his front door.

Lester's surrender comes after Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas said that Ralph was 'shot because he was existing while black'.

Andrew Lester, 84, surrendered to Clay Countys Detention Centre in Kansas City, Missouri , on Tuesday afternoon

He is facing life in jail after being charged with first-degree assault and armed criminal action in relation to the shooting which saw Ralph Yarl rushed to hospital

Mayor Lucas told CNN that he 'shared the outrage' of residents in Kansas City over the lack of action.

'To pretend that race is not a part of this whole situation would be to have your head in the sand,' he said.

'This boy was shot because he was existing while black. And he knocked on the door of someone who clearly, clearly fears Black people.

'Black boys, Black children, and I think that that is that is clear as day and so I hope that is not mistaken or forgotten the reason why many black people and black parents - myself included - are concerned is because if one day its ringing on the doorbell, they can get you shot. Then, then what else is next?

'This is normal existence in life, and somebody came to a door and shot through a door. Not once but twice. Thats what is horrifying.

'Thats why I think Im glad to see this first step towards justice and why we all need to investigate how we need to investigate how we handle this and how we can do better in the future.'

Ralph was shot in the head and the arm on April 13 after mistakenly ringing the doorbell at the Missouri property where he thought he was meant to pick up his younger twin brothers

Andrew Lester, 84, told Kansas City Police Department that shooting Ralph Yarl, 16, was the 'last thing he wanted to do' but was terrified of the teenager because of his size and age

Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas said that Ralph was 'shot because he was existing while black'

Lester, who had a mechanical FAA licence registered to Arizona, had been free on the opinion of the Clay County Prosecutor's Office as investigations continued.

Kansas City Police Department on Monday submitted a file to the Prosecutor's' Office, which issued a warrant for Lester's that evening.

It is unclear when Lester will appear in court, but he faces a maximum of life in prison for the charges if found guilty.

Ralph was shot in the head and the arm on April 13 after mistakenly ringing the doorbell at the Missouri property where he thought he was meant to pick up his younger twin brothers.

Lester shot twice within seconds of opening the door, according to his statement, and claims that no words were exchanged

In a probable cause affidavit, Lester told KCPD that shooting Yarl was the 'last thing he wanted to do' but was terrified of the teenager because of his size and age.

The document also revealed that cops discovered a Smith and Wesson .32 caliber revolver with two spent shell casings still in the cylinder after officers arrived at the scene.

Police say Yarl was shot after he knocked on the door, with Lester telling officers he saw him 'pulling on the door handle'  something which the teenager denies.

Yarl also told authorities that Lester told him 'don't come around here' after being shot in the head and the arm through the glass at the front of the house.

Lester shot twice within seconds of opening the door, according to his statement, and claims that no words were exchanged.

The document revealed that he was shot in the left forehead, and right arm, with a neighbor telling cops they thought it was 'odd' for their 'elderly neighbor to have a visitor this late at night'.

Ralph Yarl, 16, was shot twice in the head by a white man after he approached the wrong house by mistake when going to collect his siblings

Ralph, center, was said to be trying to pick up his younger siblings from a friend's house but went to the wrong address

A witness added that they heard 'two or three gunshots' from Lester's home, and heard Yarl screaming that he had been shot.

Lester told officers that he felt he was 'protecting himself' at the property where he says he lives alone.

MISSOURI 'STAND YOUR GROUND' LAWS Missouri is one of twenty US states which has stand-your-ground laws, which removes the duty to retreat before using deadly force in self-defense. The law permits homeowners to protect themselves, or a third party (with exceptions) with deadly force should a person feel it is necessary. According to Missouri Revised Statutes 563.031 residents must be faced with a threat before shooting trespassers on the property. It states: '[Protective] force is used against a person who unlawfully enters, remains after unlawfully entering, or attempts to unlawfully enter a dwelling, residence, or vehicle lawfully occupied by such person.' 'Stand-your-ground' laws roughly define how an individual can defend themselves when faced with an imminent threat anywhere else; imminent being a keyword here because even threatening words towards a defending person can lead to a justified homicide. Advertisement

He also claimed that he called 911 after the shooting, claiming that Yarl 'ran away' after the incident.

However, the statement shows that he was 'visibly upset' and 'repeatedly expressed concern' for Yarl during the interview.

He said he 'believed he was protecting himself from a physical confrontation and could not take the chance of the male coming in'.

Yarl told officers that he pressed the doorbell and waited outside of the door, adding that the man inside 'took a long time but finally opened the door holding a firearm.'

Officers took a hard drive from Lester's home to preserve video, but the video system was 'no longer functional.'

Lester's home had signs warning trespassers and unwelcomed visitors, though it is unclear if Yarl saw any of them before approaching the property.

The doorbell had a small 'no solicitors' sign on top while another sign claimed the property was 'protected by surveillance cameras.'

Clay County prosecutor Zachary Thompson announced the two felony charges on Monday, and confirmed that there was a 'racial component' to the case but would not elaborate further.

Lawyer for the family Lee Merritt added that Yarl's legal team was not aware of what the 'racial element' of the case was which was announced by Clay County Prosecutors office on Monday night.

He said: 'It's a white shooter and a black boy. The man in his 80s went home and slept in his bed that night. But I'm not sure what the prosecutor was referring to exactly.'

Lester's bond is set at $200,000. If convicted, he could face life in prison for the assault charge, and 3 to 15 years for armed criminal action.

Ralph's mother told CBS News that her son was waiting for a hug from his twin brothers but instead 'got a couple of bullets'.

A talented bass clarinet player, Ralph also leads a section of his school's marching band and plays multiple instruments in the Northland Symphony Youth Orchestra

The house in Kansas City, Missouri had a 'no solicitors' sign on top of the doorbell which Ralph mistakenly rang

Yarl is said to be recovering, but his mother said he mostly 'just sits there and stares and the buckets of tears just rolls down his eyes'.

She said that the bullet in his arm was not removed for 12 hours, and that the residual effect of the injury is going to stay with him for 'quite a while'.

President Joe Biden rang the Yarl family on Monday, and invited them to the White House when Ralph is well enough.

Yarl's mother revealed that they spoke about music, with the President saying that if his family had to rely on his musical skills then they would 'die hungry' - and the teen quipping that Biden 'had jokes'.

Crump added that it was a tragedy it had taken the prosecutor so long to charge Lester, saying: 'I think it is appropriate, you can't send a message to society that it's okay to shoot black people in the head just for ringing your doorbell.

'Gun violence against unarmed black individuals must stop. Our children should feel safe, not as though they are being hunted.

'While this is certainly a step in the right direction, we will continue to fight for Ralph while he works towards a full recovery.'

Thompson, asked why Lester was not charged with attempted murder, said they had decided to charge him with an 'a felony' because it was the most serious crime.

Lester was taken in for questioning immediately after the shooting, but was released two hours after he was arrested  without any charges.

Police took a statement from Ralph in hospital last Friday before he was released on Monday, to continue to recover at home with his mother - who is a nurse.

President Joe Biden rang the Yarl family on Monday, and invited them to the White House when Ralph is well enough

The property also had a sign claiming it was 'protected by surveillance cameras'

Cleo Nagbe, with attorney Lee Merritt, said that her son Ralph Yarl is able to communicate 'when he feels like it'

'He continues to improve. He's responsive and he's making good progress,' said his father, Paul.

Celebrities have been quick to support the teenager, actresses Viola Davis, Jennifer Hudson and Halle Berry calling for justice.

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes said he hopes 'the justice system does right by him.'

Jennifer Aniston called on her followers to demand 'an immediate arrest' of the shooter.

She also posted the prosecutor's contact address and said: 'Use the contact information below to demand Prosecutor Zachary Thompson make an immediate arrest and bring the appropriate charges.'

Her comment comes as a GoFundMe fundraiser set up by Yarl's aunt has raised more than $2.7million for the teenager just one day after it was created.
One person is thought to be behind two sets of shootings in Maine that left four people dead and three others wounded.

The four deceased victims were found shot dead in a house in Bowdoin on Tuesday morning.

While police were responding to the home a subsequent shooting erupted along nearby Interstate 295 that injured three others. The locations are around 25 miles from each other.

Cops say a suspect in both shootings has been apprehended and that there's no further threat to the public. Maine State Police said the shootings were connected but didn't discuss a motive or identify the person in custody, spokesperson Shannon Moss said.

Further details on the victims' and shooter's identity, and whether those injured in the second attack were targeted have yet to emerge.

On Facebook, Bowdinham resident Ian Halsey said that some of the victims were his cousins. 'My cousin is in critical condition and my other cousin is stable. There is no connection between the victims. It was random that my family was shot at,' Halsey told the Portland Press Herald.

A suspect is seen wearing handcuffs in police custody. Shortly after this picture was taken, he was taken away

This is the scene of the shooting that occurred along Interstate 295 in Yarmouth, Maine

Bullet holes can be seen in the windshield of the silver sedan that was involved in the shooting

Maine State Police are continuing to search the area where the suspect was taken into custody out of an abundance of caution

Maine State Police are continuing to search the area where the suspect was taken into custody out of an abundance of caution.

Lisa Erickson told the Portland Press Herald that she heard gunshots close to her home in Yarmouth, a few minutes later her neighborhood was swarming with police officers.

Erickson said that responding officers told her and her neighbors to stay indoors while a search was conducted. The suspect's abandoned car was left close to the woman's home.

WGME-TV's Alex Haskell posted a video on social media showing a suspect in custody speaking with police officers. Haskell said that shortly after he shot the video, the man was taken away.

A car seen in Haskell's video has several bullet holes in the front windshield.

The town of Yarmouth has a population of around 9,000 and is around 12 miles north of Maine's largest city, Portland. Bowdoin is a small farming community with a population of around 3,000.

A police officer stands watch in Yarmouth where residents were told to shelter-in-place following the shooting

'We are confident that there is no imminent threat to the general public at this time,' said Sagadahoc County Sheriff Joel Merry, whose deputies were assisting in Bowdoin. He referred questions to state police.

At the scene in Bowdoin, yellow crime scene tape hung around a home with a long, gravel driveway in a wooded area.

About 10 marked and unmarked law enforcement vehicles and a crime scene van were parked outside as investigators moved about and talked.

In Yarmouth, traffic backed up on the interstate as police shut down the southbound lanes, and state, county and local police canvassed the area.

Representatives for the Maine Department of Transportation said they closed the southbound side of I-295 in Yarmouth in late morning at the request of state police.

Police briefly ordered people in nearby neighborhoods to shelter in place, but authorities later announced there was no threat to the public.

Lenora Felker, who works near the highway at Rosemont Market and Bakery, said she sensed something was afoot when people started streaming in, saying the highway was closed, followed by dozens of law enforcement officers who descended on the area.

Officers canvassed businesses asking if they had seen 'anyone that was wet and muddy fleeing,' Felker said. But she knew all the customers and didn't see anything 'out of the ordinary,' she said.
Homeland Security Sec. Alejandro Mayorkas faced a verbal smackdown from Republicans during a hearing on Tuesday, with some demanding he resign and one suggesting a 'no confidence' vote.

Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Ky., told the secretary he has been 'derelict in his duties' and said he planned to introduce a draft resolution that would require the Senate to hold a no confidence vote 'in the coming days.'

On the House side Republicans have been calling for impeachment for a long time, but no articles have been put up for a vote. Marshall noted a need to support the House's impeachment efforts.

'I stand at the ready to receive articles of impeachment from the House and conduct an impeachment trial in this body. But in the meantime, I think the Senate must show our colleagues in the House that we've had enough of the failures from the Department of Homeland Security and believe that the secretary is not fit to faithfully carry out the duties of his office,' he said.

The House must approve articles of impeachment before an investigation can formally be launched in the Senate.

At one point during the Homeland Security Committee hearing Mayorkas asked the senator if he could respond. Marshall shot him down: 'I want you to answer my questions, not give me lectures.'

Sen. Ron Johnson, R-Wisc., at one point estimated between 4 million and 5 million people had crossed the southern border over the last two years. Mayorkas replied that he is 'very, very focused on the security of our border.'

Homeland Security Sec. Alejandro Mayorkas faced a verbal smackdown from Republicans during a hearing on Tuesday

'No you're not. No you're not,' Johnson interjected. 'I don't want to listen to that.'

Johnson then asked Mayorkas how many girls are sex trafficked at the southern border and the secretary said his department has made fighting human trafficking 'a priority.'

'But you are failing miserably,' said Johnson.

'You're not giving me any stats whatsoever in terms of the number of people that are human trafficked, how many young girls are sex trafficked,' Johnson said. 'You don't have a clue. You won't even answer how many dead bodies, which is very well documented, at the border.'

'Do you not care?' the Wisconsin Republican added. 'Do you not have just an ounce of human compassion for what your open border policy, the type of human depredations it is causing? You just sit there looking with a blank look on your face.'

He again listed off the number of border crossers over the last two years. 'And you're saying this is a priority?' he said. 'Mr. Secretary, you ought to resign.'

Democrat Sen. Tom Carper, D-Del., reprimanded his GOP colleagues to lighten up on the secretary.

'I just want to take a moment to ask my colleagues here today to treat the secretary with the respect he deserves,' Carper said, noting Mayorkas' dedication to the tough job.

Migrants stand near the border wall after crossing the Rio Bravo river with the intention of turning themselves in to the U.S. Border Patrol agents, as seen from Ciudad Juarez, Mexico April 14, 2023

Migrants surrender to the American authorities to request political asylum in the United States, on April 17, 2023 in in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico

'I was raised  my guess is most of the folks in this committee were raised  to treat other people the way we want to be treated. I wouldn't treat anybody the way that I've seen you treated before in other committees and again here by at least one of our colleagues today.'

But Sen. Josh Hawley backed up the calls to resign. 'You should have resigned long ago and if you cannot change course, you should be removed from office,' Hawley, R-Mo., said.

Meanwhile in the lower chamber Homeland Security Chair Rep. Mark Green reportedly told donors he would produce high crimes and misdemeanors charges against Mayorkas.

Mayorkas told the senators it was up to Congress to reform a 'broken' immigration system.

Some of the Republican lawmakers set their sights on New York Times reporting that Biden administration officials were aware of unaccompanied children brought to the border being trafficked into child labor.

Placing unaccompanied children in the care of vetted guardians mostly falls to Health and Human Services (HHS).

But Hawley accused Mayorkas of 'pressuring officials and agencies to skip the vetting process and get these kids out as soon as possible to sponsors who weren't vetted.'

'You are failing miserably,' Sen. Ron Johnson told Mayorkas, demanding he resign

Sen. Roger Marshall said he would propose a no-confidence vote in the DHS secretary

The Times' reporting did not mention Mayorkas and mostly focused on the role of HHS and high-level Biden officials.

'Senator, I look forward to discussing this issue further because you are misstating the facts so terribly,' Mayorkas said.

Separately, Democrat Sen. Bob Menendez unveiled an immigration plan Tuesday for the Biden administration that focused mostly on executive actions that would bypass the gridlock of Congress.

The outline called for boosting new pathways to citizenship, giving more humanitarian aid to specific countries, increasing funding for border security and launching further efforts to target human traffickers.

But on Monday House Republicans unveiled their own sweeping immigration bill that would tighten asylum eligibility, expand migrant family detention and crack down on employment of undocumented workers.

The House Judiciary Committee is expected to mark the bill up on Wednesday. It's likely dead on arrival in the Senate and may face difficulties getting through the House, given that Republicans have differing ideas on how to best tackle immigration.
Alec Baldwin was seen out in NYC as it was revealed he will resume filming the movie Rust in Montana on Thursday.

The actor, 65, was seen toting coffees and snacks close to his Manhattan home Tuesday, as he prepares to jet out west to conclude the now-notorious western.

Production stopped abruptly in October 2021 when during a rehearsal a prop gun held by Baldwin fired a live round that killed cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the movie's New Mexico set.

Despite ongoing legal battles, on Tuesday a spokesperson for Rust Movie Productions told CNN filming will continue at Yellowstone Film Ranch in Montana.

It comes just a day after a judge sealed from public view the terms of a civil settlement between Baldwin and Hutchins' widower, Mathew, and their son.

Alec Baldwin will resume filming Rust in Montana on Thursday, the movie's production company have confirmed. Baldwin is pictured outside his Manhattan home on Tuesday

Baldwin faces separate criminal charges of involuntary manslaughter over Hutchins' death, and denies those allegations.

Earlier in the year it was announced that Baldwin would remain in the lead role and that a successor cinematographer to Hutchins would be appointed.

It was also said filming would not be completed on the original set at Bonanza Creek Ranch in New Mexico.

Director Joel Souza, who was injured by the same bullet that killed Hutchins, will also return to finish the project, CNN reported.

On Monday a judge sealed from public view the terms of a civil settlement between Baldwin and Hutchins' widower, Mathew, and their son

District Court Judge Bryan Biedscheid agreed on Monday to seal the terms of a proposed settlement agreement that benefits Hutchins' ten-year-old son.

'What is driving my decision is really the interests of the minor child. And that is one of the very most powerful reasons to seal a matter,' Biedscheid said in a videoconference hearing for a New Mexico court.

Hutchins' widower and Baldwin came to another agreement in October. Part of that stipulated that Mathew Hutchins will serve as executive producer on the film.

After settling the lawsuit last year, he claimed he desired no further 'recriminations'. But in January, Hutchins' family said that they supported Baldwin being charged with involuntary manslaughter.

Last Thursday, Baldwin filed a motion that another lawsuit filed by Hutchins' parents and sister be be thrown out, claiming they had been distanced from her 'physically, financially and emotionally for years before her death'.

Baldwin said in court documents that Olga Solovey, Anatolii Androsovych, and Svetlana Zemko only filed the 'misguided' suit to 'obtain compensation' over Hutchins' death.

'The loss of a daughter and sister is undoubtedly painful in any circumstance.

'Yet Plaintiffs - who had been distanced from Halyna physically, financially, and emotionally for years before her death - have no viable cause of action against Defendants,' the documents state, according to NBC News.

In October 2021, during a rehearsal, a prop gun held by Baldwin fired a live round that killed cinematographer Halyna Hutchins (right)

Earlier in the year it was announced that Baldwin would remain in the lead role once the filming of Rust resumes

Last Thursday Baldwin filed a motion that another lawsuit filed by Hutchins' parents and sister be be thrown out. He is pictured on Tuesday

That suit, filed in February, named Baldwin, the armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, assistant director David Halls as well as Rust Movie Productions as the defendants.

The attorney representing Hutchins' parents and sister, Gloria Allred, reportedly said in a statement on Saturday that Baldwin calling for the lawsuit to be thrown out showed that he was 'once again attempting to avoid responsibility'.

She added that she and Hutchins' family were there to make sure Baldwin was 'held accountable for his actions'.

In January, Baldwin as well as Gutierrez-Reed were charged with involuntary manslaughter and Baldwin has since vowed to fight the charges, calling them a 'terrible miscarriage of justice'.

He and Gutierrez-Reed are facing a maximum of 18 months in prison if convicted of involuntary manslaughter. Prosecutors allege Baldwin pulled the trigger of the gun that killed Hutchins while Gutierrez-Reed failed to ensure it was unloaded.

Baldwin was pictured on Tuesday loading boxes into the back of his SUV in Manhattan

Halls was charged with negligent use of a deadly weapon in March and pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor charge of negligent use of a deadly weapon.

He was sentenced to six months probation and ordered to pay a $500 fine and complete a gun-safety course.

State District Judge Mary Marlowe Somme initially sentenced Halls to a six-month jail term but suspended it. He was also ordered to complete 24 hours of community service, 'take responsibility for his actions or inactions', to not consume alcohol or drugs without a prescription and have no contact with potential witnesses in the upcoming case.

Halls, who appeared via court video for his plea hearing, is the first person to be held accountable for the death of Hutchins who was shot on October 21, 2021, during rehearsals.

He is expected to testify in the upcoming criminal cases against Baldwin and set armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed.
A Stanford University employee was arraigned on perjury charges after she allegedly lied about a co-worker raping her twice after he spurned her romantic advances.

Jennifer Gries, 25, of Santa Clara did not speak on Monday during her first appearance in court on two felony counts of perjury and two misdemeanor counts of making a false crime report.

Gries is alleged to have fabricated claims about being raped by a co-worker that, in turn, sparked a widespread panic across Stanford's campus about a sexual predator stalking women in the area.

Protesters took to the campus last October as a result of rape claims prosecutors now say were fake, and which allegedly came as the result of an unrequited crush.

It is believed that Gries spun the lies as part of a revenge plot against the co-worker, who she is said to have accused of leading her on.

Gries was ordered to return to enter a plea on June 21. She will remain free in the meantime on supervised release. She was additionally issued a no-contact order, which requires her to stay at least 300 yards from the co-worker about whom she made the claims.

No mugshot or images of Gries have yet been issued. Stanford fired her from her job at housing services after she was charged over the crime.

Gries's alleged lies triggered protests across the Stanford campus as students claimed the elite university was failing to support victims of sexual assault. This was one of the protests triggered by her allegations in October 2022

Gries filed two rape reports two months apart, both targeting her co-worker, who may have spurned her romantically

Her initial report came last August, when Gries claimed she had been in a parking lot near a campus dining hall when an unknown man grabbed her, took her into a bathroom, told her not to scream, and raped her.

She filed a report at the Valley Medical Center, where she went to get a sexual assault forensic exam. There, she told the medical staff that she did not want to speak to police.

Almost exactly two months later in October, Gries again sought a forensic exam after saying that a man walked into her office on campus and dragged her into a basement, where he proceeded to rape her. Again, Gries declined to speak with law enforcement.

On both occasions, Gries gave a general description of her co-worker - a 6ft tall black man in his late 20s - as her alleged assailant. Gries's race has not been disclosed publicly.

The reports provoked widespread fear that there was a rapist running amuck on Stanford's campus.

One student group, Sexual Violence Free Stanford, led a protest march following the report of the second rape.

Protestors called for more counseling support for survivors, better training for incoming students, and the immediate removal of all students and members of staff who commit acts of sexual assault. They blamed the school for failing to support victims.

Students held posters that read, 'Stanford protects rapists.'

The false report charges that have been filed against Gries allege that she lied to the hospital's medical staff, who, each time she arrived, made it clear that they were required to alert police of the reports.

The perjury counts are based on Gries signing forms to receive California Victim Compensations Board benefits.

Further, prosecutors are alleging that, prior to her allegedly false rape reports, Gries filed a human resources complaint saying that she had become pregnant with, then miscarried, her co-worker's twins after he raped her.

Those claims were deemed baseless, according to authorities.

Gries was terminated from her position at the university following an investigation that followed her arrest in March

Advocates for survivors of sexual assault fear Gries's case may impact whether or not future victims of sexual assault or rape will come forward with their claims

Investigators looking into the case say they found text messages Gries sent to another co-worker, in which she discussed attempting to make the male co-worker's life a 'living hell.'

'I'm coming up with a plan,' she wrote.

Authorities say the man was never involved with Gries and that the multiple rape kits failed to produce any corroborating evidence in regards to her claims.

District Attorney Investigators Sheena Woodland said that Gries, in a previously recorded police interview, 'admitted to lying about the rapes and wrote an apology letter to the target of the false allegations.'

In that interview, Gries said she was 'upset with the victim' because he gave her 'false intention' and 'turned her friends against her.'

The allegations against Gries have drawn upset among advocates for sexual assault survivors, who fear they'll make it even harder for future victims to secure a rape conviction.

Santa Clara County District Attorney took this position into consideration when he announced charges against Gries, saying that the allegations against the young woman were a 'rare and deeply destructive crime' that will impact 'legitimate sexual assault victims who wonder if they will be believed.'

On Monday, Marina Mankaryous - the prosecutor handling Gries's case - encouraged those who have suffered instances of sexual assault to continue reporting those crimes.

'A case such as this is damaging, not only to the victim, but to survivors of sexual assault who may be discouraged,' she said.

'But again, we at the DA's office want to encourage people to report, they will be supported and we will hold sexual offenders accountable.'
The board overseeing Disney's district will hear Wednesday how the deals meant to strip them of their powers are void after the corporation took a victory lap

The new board controlling Disneys special district will learn Wednesday if agreements meant to strip them of their powers are valid, DailyMail.com can reveal.

Disney trumped Florida Governor Ron DeSantis in March using an obscure legal loophole, stripping power from the oversight board he had put in place to control the Florida theme park.

The dispute between Walt Disney Company and the state governor erupted in March 2022, when DeSantis passed his 'Don't Say Gay' bill, banning classroom teaching on gender identity.

Disney spoke out against the law - relying on special legal privileges it has held for decades at the so-called Reedy Creek Improvement District, which covers the 40 square miles of land owned by the corporation.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis believes the Walt DIsney corporation was premature in celebrating its legal victory against the DeSantis-selected board.

Walt Disney added an arcane legal provision to a contract preventing a board appointed by Ron DeSantis from making any significant changes by using the 'Royal Lives' clause

In retaliation, DeSantis moved to revoke these self-governing privileges by imposing his own board to run the district.

Little-known 'Royal lives clause' used to circumvent laws that last in perpetuity - that dates back to 17th-Century Britain A contractual clause that dates back to 17th-Century Britain, the restriction demands covenants be tied to the lifespan of a person living at the time the guidance is signed, plus 21 years. Named for the British royal family due to information about their bloodline being readily available, the legal concept was created to circumvent laws that last in perpetuity, and maximizes the possible length of time that trusts can subsist. Moreover, the family was also chosen to represent the concept because of the 'better healthcare available to, and longer life expectancy of, a royal family member compared to a non-royal', law firm Birketts explained. The clause became part of contractual drafting to common law in 1692, in response to a harsh legal precedent seen at the time in property laws. Those laws, over the centuries, have largely been rectified - but Royal Lives clause remain, though their use, particularly in the US, is somewhat rare. In the case of Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, the time period for which it pertains to - if not overturned - could be lengthy, with Charles' youngest living descendant, Princess Lilibet, only aged one. If not overturned, the covenant will remain in effect for more than 20 years after the death of the last surviving Charles heir alive at the time of its inking. Advertisement

However, the Governor appeared to have had the rug pulled from under him after last-minute agreements were filed by Disney to prevent his officials from taking power.

Sensationally, the agreement stated that the provisions will remain in place until '21 years after the death of the last survivor of the descendants of King Charles III, king of England living as of the date of this declaration.'

This 'last survivor' is one-year-old Princess Lilibet of Sussex, who lives in California.

The so-called 'Royal lives clause' is used by lawyers to avoid rules against contracts, which often last in perpetuity.

But a person familiar with the investigation into the deals said they were executed unlawfully and are therefore not worth the paper theyre written on.

Investigators are expected to inform the new DeSantis-appointed board on Wednesday that these deals are void and that they can move forward with governing the formerly special designated tax district.

'Disney overplayed their hand after doing their victory lap. Comes to find that all of their agreements are legally invalid,' the source told DailyMail.com.

Board members are prevented by Florida law from meeting as a group outside of public hearings, so the presentation on Wednesday will be the first time that the new Central Florida Tourism Oversight District board will hear about the issues with the deals.

While the board is meeting, DeSantis will give two separate speeches in the early primary contest state of South Carolina, spreading word about the Florida Blueprint for America.

Speculation is heightening that DeSantis is planning to announce a bid for the Republican primary for the 2024 presidential race. He is the only candidate that comes close to giving former President Donald Trump competition.

A big part of DeSantis' policy blueprint includes the 'Parental Rights in Education' law, which prevents the teaching of sexual orientation and gender identity in classes for children up to the third grade - legislation that Disney actively disagrees with.

Since then, DeSantis and Disney have been at war  coming to a head when the governor took control of the special district that allowed the corporation special privileges that other companies in the state do not have.

Central Florida Tourism Oversight District board will meet Wednesday to hear a presentation on how the deals meant to strip them of their powers are void because the old board did not give a proper notification period, a source familiar with the investigation told DailyMail.com

What makes the Reedy Creek deal with Disney unlawful, the source told DailyMail.com, is that the old board did not mail out notification of the hearings they were conducting to adopt the new contracts with Disney, which is required by Florida law to be done in the public notice period.

The person familiar with the probe told DailyMail.com that the board will learn that while the Reedy Creek board gave Disney essentially the powers of local government, the district did not get anything in return.

'One of the things that we normally think about in a contract is you have to give consideration or something of value,' the source explained. 'It's a quid pro quo. You know, I have to give you something, you have to give me something in order for us to have a binding contract so that we both have to execute under it.

'And so, here the district gave a whole lot to Disney,' they added. 'So, this gives Disney all of those powers of a local government, and Disney doesn't give the district anything back.

'At most, Disney says, "Hey district, if you ever need to buy property from us in the future for whatever reason, we'll sell it to you at fair market." Well, that's what the law requires, anyway. So that's a losing theory.'

Reedy Creek Improvement District was established in 1967 and gives Disney special privileges. In DeSantis's war with Disney, he stripped the jurisdiction of its pro-Disney board and is renaming it the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District with his own five-member board

Giving a corporation essentially the powers of a local government is also against Florida law due to a non-delegation doctrine in the Sunshine State.

'What they've done is they've delegated to Disney so much of government corps number of functions that it violates our non-delegation jurisprudence, and it's another reason that these documents, these agreements are just void,' the source said.

When a notice period is carried out improperly, the whole process must start from scratch  and the new board will be less than willing to enter into an agreement created entirely by the business they are seeking to regulate.

Disney was awarded special privileges and exemptions when the Reedy Creek Improvement District was created in 1967.
Most Americans support the boycott of Anheuser-Busch over Bud Light's tie-up with trans influencer Dylan Mulvaney and say big corporations give too much attention to trans people, a new poll shows.

A Rasmussen Reports survey of some 1,000 adults found that the brewing giant 'stepped in a hornets' nest' by getting Mulvaney, 26, a controversial TikToker, to promote their low-calorie beer.

The tie-up quickly backfired, with the likes of John Rich, Travis Tritt, and Kid Rock among dozens of conservative celebrities and politicians leading a boycott that wiped billions off the firm's value within days.

'We now have polling numbers back in, and it's pretty clear they stepped in a hornets' nest,' Mark Mitchell, Rasmussen's head of polling, said in a video about the survey.

More than half of respondents (54 percent) supported the boycott of Anheuser-Busch, the firm that brews Bud Light, while 30 percent were opposed

Some 52 percent of respondents said major corporations give too much attention to transgender issues. Another 18 percent said they do not focus enough on the hot-button topic.

Mulvaney's April 1 Instagram post included her drinking a beer with her face printed on the can and lying in a bathtub knocking back Bud Light

More than half of respondents (54 percent) supported the boycott of Anheuser-Busch, the firm that produces Bud Light, while 30 percent were opposed. Another 16 percent said they were not sure.

A similar share of respondents (52 percent) said that major corporations give too much attention to transgender issues. Another 18 percent said they do not focus enough on the hot-button topic.

Pollsters also found that the firm could well take a sales hit from the debacle  40 percent said they were less likely to buy Bud Light after Mulvaney's skit, while only 19 percent said they were more likely to buy the beer.

Another 37 percent said it made no difference to them.

Middle-aged, married people and Republicans were generally more supportive of the boycott, and more likely to say corporations were pandering to the trans cause than were other groups.

Still, even large numbers of Democrats felt the same way and said they'd stop stocking up on Bud Light. Some 41 percent of Democrat-voting respondents said big companies like Anheuser-Busch focussed too much on trans issues.

'We have tons of polling showing that a large chunk of the Democrat electorate is not in favor of the entire gender agenda,' said Mitchell.

'In fact, it's about the same amount that now support boycotting Anheuser-Busch over the issue.'

The survey of 1,041 US adults was conducted between April 12-16 and has a three percentage point error margin.

The controversy erupted after Bud Light gifted Mulvaney an influencer package on April 1 to celebrate the first anniversary of her hit TikTok series, Days of Girlhood, charting her man-to-girl transition.

Kid Rock posted a video wearing a white MAGA hat firing his gun at cases of Bud Light

Dylan Mulvaney's hit TikTok series Days of Girlhood tracks the influencer's man-to-girl transition, which some critics have called 'creepy'

The glorified swag bag featured bespoke Bud Light cans with illustrations of Mulvaney's face, which she showed off in an Instagram video.

While Mulvaney has millions of adoring fans and 10.8 million TikTok followers, her energetic, attention-seeking skits are tedious and grating for many.

Critics dislike her shrill approximation of femininity, and worry about influencers driving a rise in the number of teenagers coming out as trans and asking for cross-sex hormones and other potentially-harmful drugs and procedures.

The promotional tie-up backfired on Anheuser-Busch, setting ablaze conservative and trans-skeptical pockets of social media as thousands of news articles were published about the controversy.

Kid Rock famously posted a video of himself firing a rifle at cases of Bud Light.

In a statement released on Friday, CEO, Brendan Whitworth, a former Marine and CIA agent and registered Republican, appeared to backtrack, saying the company had never intended to divide Americans by partnering with Mulvaney.

The company's stock market value tanked by $6 billion, but started to recover after the CEO's statement and when some conservative voices, including Donald Trump Jr., called for the boycott to end.
Democratic Tennessee state Rep. Justin Jones was blocked by security for trying to take a child's casket inside the legislature during a gun rights protest Monday.

Jones, who was reinstated last week following his expulsion for a firearms control demonstration, was stopped from bringing the prop onto the House floor.

He then passed it off at the doorway to fellow state Rep. Justin Pearson, the second black Democrat who was expelled and then reinstated for the protest.

Demonstrators led by Bishop William Barber II had marched in Nashville on Monday demanding that lawmakers pass the gun safety legislation in the wake of the Christian school shooting that left three children and three adults dead.

Democrat Jones was blocked by security for trying to take a child's casket inside the legislature during a gun rights protest on Monday

Jones, who was reinstated last week following his expulsion for a firearms control demonstration, was stopped from bringing the prop onto the House floor

The protesters claimed Republicans are using their authority to trample democracy. They carried several caskets symbolizing those lost to gun violence.

Demonstrators led by Bishop William Barber II had marched in Nashville on Monday, demanding that lawmakers pass the gun safety legislation and stop using their authority to trample democracy.

'The legislators are back, but returning duly elected lawmakers to their seat does not solve the problem,' Barber said, demanding that lawmakers 'stop committing policy murder.'

Jones and Rev. William J. Barber left a child's coffin at the door of the House chambers on Monday, April 17, 2023

Jones then passed the coffin off at the doorway to fellow Rep. Pearson, the second black Democrat who was expelled and then reinstated for the protest

Demonstrators led by Bishop William Barber II had marched in Nashville on Monday, demanding that lawmakers pass the gun safety legislation in the wake of the school shooting

The protesters carried several caskets symbolizing those lost to gun violence on Monday

Shannon Felder holds a child's casket before a march to the state Capitol to protest gun violence

Sgt. at Arms blocks as the representatives try to bring a coffin into to the House chambers

Jones carries a child's casket into the state Capitol past state trooper - before being blocked by security

Bobby Lee Smith and Rev. Paula Smith attend the Tennessee Moral Monday rally protesting gun violence

The fatal shooting of six people at a Nashville private school last month kicked off a stream of calls for changes to Tennessees gun laws, including a ban on assault weapons, tougher background checks and a 'red flag' law. Republican Gov. Bill Lee has urged lawmakers to pass legislation that would keep firearms away from people who could harm themselves or others. So far, the Republican supermajority has refused.

Reps. Jones and Pearson, both Democrats, returned to the GOP-dominated General Assembly last week after being ousted for their role in a pro-gun control demonstration from the House floor.

The episode has turned Tennessee into a new front in the battle for the future of American democracy and pressured lawmakers to address gun control in a state known for its lax firearm regulations.
A neighbor, Adam Matthews, said he wasn't surprised Monahan was accused of the horrific crime

The upstate New York man accused of killing a 20-year-old woman, who was a passenger in the car that accidentally drove up his driveway has been described by a neighbor as a 'narcissist with a short fuse,' who would often 'rage about trespassers.'

Adam Matthews told The New York Post that he was not surprised when he learned that his construction boss neighbor Kevin Monahan, 65, was accused in the shooting death of Kaylin Gillis on his remote property in the town of Hebron.

Gillis was traveling with three friends on Saturday night around 10pm looking for a friend's address when the driver of the vehicle mistakenly pulled into Monahan's driveway.

Monahan reportedly stepped out onto his porch, reportedly firing two shots, one of which hit Gillis, who was a passenger in the vehicle, according to Washington County Sheriff Jeffrey Murphy.

Matthews said one of Monahan's biggest pet peeves was people trespassing on his property.

Kevin Monahan, 65, was charged with murder in the second degree and remains in custody at Warren County Jail, officials said

Kaylin Gillis, 20, was enjoying a night out with friends before she was shot dead on Sunday night in the senseless killing. She was remembered by distraught family and friends as a gentle soul who loved animals

The rural farming area located near the Adirondack mountains has a population of 1,786, according to the 2020 US Census Bureau, and is comprised of dirt roads with minimal cell and internet service.

The neighbor said when he first heard the news his 'knee-jerk reaction' was that 'somebody probably drove up Kevin's driveway to settle a beef.'

'If someone said that out of this whole road, something happened, who would be the first person who popped into my mind? Kevin,' he claimed.

Matthews said it was 'shocking,' and felt sorry for the young victim.

'There was never any doubt he had a short fuse. I think he was a bit of a narcissist,' Matthews claimed. 'He could do no wrong, but everybody else didn't know jack st.'

Sheriff Jeffrey J. Murphy told NPR it is not uncommon for drivers to turn into the wrong property due to the remote location with spotty cell service.

'It's a very rural area. There's dirt roads,' Murphy said. 'There's not a lot of cell service or any type of internet.'

After the shooting, the victim's frantic friends had to drive to the neighboring town of Salem to call for help.

Monahan's property is situated on Patterson Hill Road in the town of Hebron located near the Adirondack mountains

Gillis, who is from Schuylerville, New York was roughly 18 miles from home when the tragedy occurred.

Matthews said that Monahan would always gripe about people driving up his driveway thinking it was a road.

'He was very adamant people didn't come up, and for a long time he kept the bottom of his driveway gated because so many people did mistake it for a roadway because it's so wide at the bottom,' he said.

The property line even stumped police when they first responded to the shooting, he said.

Monahan was charged with murder in the second degree and remains in custody at Warren County Jail, officials said.

After the shooting, Monahan was not cooperating with authorities and the New York State Police Special Operation Response Team was called in to assist, before he was taken into custody, according to a sheriff's department news release.

The sheriff described the tragic killing as 'very sad.'

'There was clearly no threat from anyone in the vehicle,' he said. 'There was no reason for Monahan to feel threatened.'
The non-binary former Energy Department official who was caught on camera stealing luggage from Minneapolis airport agreed to undergo a mental health evaluation - as he avoids jail time in Las Vegas for a similar crime.

Samuel Brinton, 35, who uses they/them pronouns agreed during a remote hearing in Hennepin County on Monday to participate in a adult diversion program after he was charged for stealing a woman's suitcase in September containing $2,325 of items from Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport.

As a part of the program, Brinton - who was responsible for nuclear fuel and radioactive waste - will be required to write an apology to the victim, return the stolen items and participate in three days of community service.

Brinton is expected to report to the program later this month, which could see them avoid jail time of up to five years and/or a $10,000 fine.

The Minnesota hearing comes nearly a week after Brinton was given a suspended sentence of 180 days in prison after pleading 'no contest' to their Las Vegas, Nevada theft case. Brinton was also ordered to pay $3,670 to the Las Vegas victim.

Samuel Brinton, 35, agreed to undergo a mental health evaluation in Minnesota after he was charged in October for stealing a women's suitcase at the airport

As a part of the program, Brinton - who was responsible for nuclear fuel and radioactive waste - will be required to write an apology to the victim, return the stolen items and participate in three days of community service. He may dodge five years of jail time

According to the Hennepin County Attorneys Office, 'there are times when public safety is best served by diverting first-time offenders from the criminal justice system' and to the adult diversion program.

The program is set up to provide offenders with mental health resources they need and provide 'accountability.'

'Every successful diversion reduces costs in the criminal justice system and reduces the number of repeat offenders,' the website reads.

Last Wednesday, Brinton was issued a suspended sentence of eight months after grabbing a passenger's bag inside Harry Reid International Airport.

The case had gone unresolved for months until one officer saw a news article in November that identified Brinton as a suspect in another luggage theft.

Brinton had been implicated in a theft inside the Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport on September 16, and their photos matched the suspect in the Las Vegas incident.

Brinton faced misdemeanor theft charges in Vegas, which amount to less than $1,200 in stolen items. They had originally faced a felony theft charge since police said the amount stolen was $3,670.

A suspended sentence means the former Energy Department employee will not be forced immediately to serve a jail or prison term and may be required to complete probation.

Brinton made headlines last year after proudly announcing on LinkedIn that they had become Deputy Assistant Secretary of Spent Fuel and Waste Disposition in the Department of Energy

The Minnesota hearing comes nearly a week after Brinton was given a suspended sentence of 180 days in prison after pleading 'no contest' to their Las Vegas, Nevada theft case. Brinton was also ordered to pay $3,670 to the Las Vegas victim

A suspended sentence means the former Energy Department employee will not be forced immediately to serve a jail or prison term and may be required to complete probation

The situation in Las Vegas began when a woman who had been traveling from Dulles International Airport in Washington, D.C. to Harry Reid Airport on July 6 said she could not find her luggage.

The woman told officials that one piece, which had been checked with United Airlines was missing, and she later filed a police report.

According to officials, the suitcase was worth $320 and was from the 'Away' brand.

Inside the luggage was more than $3,000 in items including jewelry, makeup, contact lenses, and clothing, documents said.

When officials began investigating and looked at security footage, they noticed Brinton - then identified as 'the suspect' acting strangely.

An officer 'observed several nonverbal cues, or body language anomalies, from the suspect, which caught his attention,' according to the warrant.

'Specifically, Brinton pulled the victim's luggage from the carousel and examined the tag. Then placed it back on the carousel, looking in all directions for anyone who might be watching or might approach, the warrant continues.

'Pulling it back off the carousel and demonstrating the same behavior by looking around before walking away with it quickly,' the document states.

American Airlines later confirmed that Brinton had not checked a bag on their flight from Washington D.C.

When the victim was later shown footage of Brinton with the suitcase, she confirmed it was her luggage.

The Minneapolis luggage theft case in September eventually led investigators in Los Angeles to identify Brinton. When officials began investigating and looked at security footage, they noticed Brinton - then identified as 'the suspect' - acting strangely

'Specifically, Brinton pulled the victim's luggage from the carousel and examined the tag. Then placed it back on the carousel, looking in all directions for anyone who might be watching or might approach, the warrant continues

On top of the charges in Las Vegas and Minneapolis, Brinton is also under investigation after a fashion designer saw pictures of them wearing what appeared to be her unique clothes she lost after her bag went missing in 2018.

Asya Khamsin said her bag vanished at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and believes Brinton is the culprit.

Khamsin spotted the clothes amid the ongoing coverage into Brinton, and reported the theft to Houston Police in December.

Khamsin claimed Brinton has been seen wearing her custom-made outfits on several occasions since her luggage went missing five years ago.

The fashion guru, based in Houston, shared side by side photos of herself wearing one of her outfits next to a photo that surfaced of Brinton in what she believed is the same one.

Since then, numerous photos have surfaced showing Brinton wearing what appear to be several of Khamsin's one-of-a-kind outfits.

The patterns, though similar, sit differently on Brinton and there has been no proof that the items are the same - and it is unclear if they got them altered.

Brinton, before being fired, was a deputy assistant secretary of the office of spent fuel and waste disposition, according to the Office of Nuclear Energy's website.

Shortly after an arrest warrant was issued for their arrest in Las Vegas, the department announced they were no longer an employee.

They were first hired to the department last summer.

Sam Brinton (pictured left at the Starbucks in West Hollywood) appeared to be wearing Asya Khamsin's one of a kind designs

Khamsin shared photos on her social media of her designs compared to what Brinton was seen wearing after her luggage with the clothing was stolen from an airport in Washington, DC
At least one person has been killed and five others injured after a parking garage collapsed in Manhattan, leaving cars piled up amongst crumbled concrete on Tuesday afternoon.

The incident occurred at Enterprise Ann Parking at 57 Ann Street, between Nassau Street and William Street in lower Manhattan, near Wall Street.

The garage collapsed at 4:15pm, resulting in a huge emergency response.

A woman was heard screaming 'get out!' and images showed the top floor caved in with vehicles falling through broken concrete.

People were also trapped in the elevator shaft which caved in. City officials said that as a result the floors 'pancaked' on top of each other.

The cause of death of the deceased person has not been made public. Five people are being treated at a local hospital, FDNY Chief of Operations James Esposito said.

Residential apartments and businesses on the street have been told to evacuate until further notice.

'Injuries, deaths expected to change rapidly,' a fire official said.

Cars piled up on top of each other after the building's floors 'pancaked' on top of each other

This picture shows that one section of the collapsed floor was completely undamaged

An aerial shot over 57 Ann Street showing where the collapse occurred

An injured person being rushed from the scene

Eric Adams, the mayor of New York, speaks beside NYPD Commissioner Keechant Sewell (left)

Adams and his city colleagues are pictured on the scene of Tuesday's accident

Mayor Eric Adams told the media that a robotic dog also known as a Digidog was needed to go into the building because it was unstable.

'At this time this building is completely unstable and the chief - we do not want to send in someone until we can make sure the building is shored up,' the mayor added.

Police Commissioner Keechant Sewell, speaking at the scene, called the incident a 'structural collapse'.

Responding firefighters did enter the building upon arrival but retreated when the structure was deemed unstable.

A parking attendant, who was seen being taken from the scene with his leg wrapped in a bandage, told DailyMail.com that he had been 'telling them that something like this was going to happen.'

The location of the parking garage is close to New York City Hall. A press release advised residents to expect delays on the evening commute. Trains around the Fulton Street hub are moving at slower speeds.

City Council member Christopher Marte tweeted that there are 'a few people stuck in an elevator in the building.'

Don Mulligan was inside the hotel directly next to the garage when it collapsed.

'The evacuation was very orderly, they weren't rushing people, just went over the intercom and got everyone out,' he told DailyMail.com.

A witness described the sound of the crash as being an 'incredible noise.'

'I was wondering what that was so I went to the window and I just saw the top floor of this garage...just beginning to cave in and cars just following into this pit,' Erasmo Guerra told NBC New York.

Eric Adams, the mayor of New York, tweeted this photo of the destroyed building

Cars and debris are seen piled up in the lower Manhattan parking lot

The floors collapsed onto one another, sending vehicles plummeting down

Members of the mayor's team are seen at the scene on Tuesday evening

FDNY workers are seen examining the building on Tuesday afternoon

Members of the FDNY are seen entering the car park to inspect the damage, before it was declared structurally unsafe

The garage is seen shortly after the building collapsed on Tuesday

Shannon Wu, who lives on the same street as the collapsed building, was among around 100 people waiting outside after cops closed an area off around two blocks.

'It's a very old building, so it's honestly not surprising,' she told DailyMail.com.

'It's known as a really old building.

'My boyfriend was home when it happened, and he said the whole street was shaking.'

He described it as 'like the subway shaking underneath the building'.

Michael Papayianis, a film student at Pace University, was sent a text message from the university about cancelled classes.

He agreed with Wu that the garage was aging.

'It is such an old building. I live above the pizzeria half a block away - I've only parked there once, and I'm glad I didn't park there today,' he told DailyMail.com.

'The building is definitely really old, almost all the metal inside is rusty.

'I wouldn't be surprised if they just overbooked it with cars.'

Angela Aparico was working in a hotel building about a block away.

'It just felt like everything was shaking,' she told DailyMail.com.

'It was like the whole ground was unsettled, almost like an earthquake.

'I just hope everybody is okay.'

Michael Papayianis, a film student at Pace University, said he always thought the building was worryingly old and decrepit

Pace University told students that classes had been cancelled

Firefighters were initially unable to enter the building due to its instability

The parking garage is close to the financial district and Pace University

Firefighters beginning their rescue attempt

A massive emergency services response is underway at the scene

New York City Mayor Eric Adams at the scene of the collapse, which occurred just a few blocks from City Hall

A photo taken across the street from the parking garage shortly after the collapse

An Ann Street resident told DailyMail.com: 'The building looked unsound for years, like a converted residential structure with no additional structural supports, even though the cars were packed onto every floor and the roof, the walls seemed bent and winding outwards. By sight alone it seemed unsound.'

The building has been cited multiple times since 2008 for violations relating to cracks in the concrete, reports ABC New York.

As a result of the incident, the nearby Pace University has canceled all classes and evacuated their nearby campus.

The garage is used for parking by the New York Sheriff's Department, all of their staff are accounted for.

Pace University student Charlie Franklin told Pix11 that he and his roommate frequently talked about how unsafe the building looked.

'It was bound to happen sooner or later. Hopefully they can get their stuff together and Pace can give us accommodations for tonight,' Franklin said.

Another Pace student, Jadess Speller, 19, described the crash as sounding like an 'explosion,' in an interview with the New York Post.

'There was just a huge boom, and I was like, 'What the hell was that?' We saw smoke rising, heard a man screaming, a woman screaming. There was debris and we saw cars pilled on top of each other,' Speller added.
Gareth Eve needed no reminder that his wife had died too young, but the process of clearing her wardrobe provided one anyway. 'It was all wrong,' he says.

'I remembered my dad doing it when my grandad died, but then they were sorting out an old man's suits and cardigans and walking sticks  the sort of things you should be dealing with in this situation.

'You aren't supposed to be faced with bright bikinis, yellow high heels, dresses that still have the labels on them and Kylie Minogue T-shirts.'

Lisa Shaw, an award-winning radio presenter on Radio Newcastle, was just 44 when she died in May 2021. Until she was admitted to hospital she had been fit, healthy and fizzing with the sort of energy her job on the morning show required.

Her devastated colleagues had to announce her death on air, but it was down to Gareth, now 43, to tell their six-year-old son Zach that his 'mam' wasn't coming home. 'I told him the morning after Lisa died. It was the hardest thing I've ever had to do.

Lisa Shaw, an award-winning radio presenter, died aged 44 in May 2021 after having the covid vaccine

Lisa pictured with her husband Gareth Eve and their son Zach

'He climbed into our bed for a cuddle and I said the doctors had tried everything they could but they couldn't make her better again. He cried, but you don't know how much kids understand.

'I'm not religious, but I told him Lisa was in Heaven, which was a perfect place where she'd see Grandad again, and Sally - my dad's dog.'

Zach is now eight, still too young to have the full facts of his mother's death explained to him, but there is no question what killed her. In August 2021, Newcastle Coroner Karen Dilks recorded that Lisa had died 'due to complications of an AstraZeneca Covid vaccination'.

'That word AstraZeneca is on her death certificate,' points out Gareth.

Lisa had been vaccinated on April 29, but started developing headaches a week later. On May 13, she was admitted to hospital where Gareth, reeling, was handed a print-out explaining what 'vaccine-induced thrombotic thrombocytopenia' was.

It's a rare condition ('but not rare enough that they didn't have a print-out,' he says) leading to clots on the brain.

At first doctors were confident they could treat it, but on May 16, Lisa started to have speech problems. 'We were having a conversation about Zach's swimming lessons and she couldn't get out the word 'goggles'.'

It was discovered she had suffered a bleed on the brain, and was rushed to surgery where part of her skull was removed to ease the pressure. She never recovered and spent the last five days of her life on a ventilator, as her family gathered in shock.

'I held her hand. It was all just a haze. Apart from the bandages, you wouldn't have been able to tell there was anything wrong.

Lisa's death certificate, which says she 'died due to complications of an AstraZeneca Covid vaccination

Lisa had been vaccinated on April 29 but started developing headaches a week later. On May 13, she was admitted to hospital

Gareth pictured at his home in Newcastle

Her husband Gareth has said: 'I have been trying to get answers from AstraZeneca, and from the Government, since Lisa died'

The couple pictured at Grand Central Station in New York

'She looked as if she was sleeping. She looked as she always looked  perfect.'

A devastating tragedy for one family, of course. But the questions raised by Lisa's death have much wider implications.

And so, Gareth took a step which is the equivalent of lobbing a hand grenade into the vaccine debate. He launched legal action against pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca, joining forces with another 75 families who have also lost loved-ones, or seen them severely disabled after having the vaccine.

Lawyers say the payouts, should the action be successful, could reach seven-figure sums.

Who will foot the bill? Not AstraZeneca. Under a legal indemnity that the Government gave the company early in the pandemic (because of the need to roll out the vaccine fast), the UK taxpayer will have to pay any compensation awarded. Gareth finds this astonishing. 'The idea that a drug company can be immune from any legal responsibility is staggering, but even if they are, what about moral responsibility?'

At his home in County Durham, Gareth insists this action is not about money ('because no amount will ever bring Lisa back') but about truth and justice.

'I have been trying to get answers from AstraZeneca, and from the Government, since Lisa died. I have contacted my MP  who didn't really want to know.

'I have asked questions of three prime ministers now, including Boris Johnson who was in charge at the time, and I've been ignored, brushed off.

'I think I'm an embarrassment to the authorities because Lisa's death was inconvenient for them. It challenges their narrative that the vaccine was safe, and that any risk was so rare we shouldn't even talk about it.'

Today, he is at pains to point out that he is absolutely not an anti-vaxxer. He went on to have two more doses even after his wife died (although he had the less-contentious Pfizer jab for them, and has long advocated people being able to have an informed choice).

'I'm not anti-vaccine. I'm anti bulls***,' he says. 'I just want answers. After Lisa died, I was contacted by a woman whose husband died from exactly the same thing.

'He was treated in the same hospital, by the same doctors, and ended up in the same high-dependency unit. What are the chances of that, with a condition that is supposed to be this rare?'

The Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine was, of course, the first Covid jab approved for use in the UK in December 2020, with the Government ordering 100 million doses for its vaccination programme.

A study by the University of Oxford, published in August 2021, estimated that for every ten million people vaccinated with AstraZeneca, there were 66 extra cases of blood clots in the veins and seven extra cases of a rare type of blood clot in the brain.

The authorities continue to stress its effectiveness, although it is worth noting that the vaccine is no longer used in the UK. In August 2022, it was announced there were no plans to order further AstraZeneca vaccines for the UK.

'I'm not anti-vaccine. I'm anti bulls***,' he says. 'I just want answers.'

Gareth told his son that Lisa was in heaven 'which was a perfect place where she'd see Grandad again, and Sally  my dad's dog'

Gareth and Lisa, who worked on Radio Newcastle, pictured getting married

At the time, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) said the decision was down to a recommendation by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), that mRNA vaccines  such as the Pfizer or Moderna jabs  should primarily be used for boosters rather than viral vector vaccines such as AstraZeneca.

A JCVI spokesman said: 'The results of the Cov-Boost trial conducted during the summer of 2021 provided good evidence that mRNA vaccines are the most effective option for the UK's booster programme.'

This week, a spokesman for the DHSC said: 'More than 144 million Covid vaccines have been given in England, which has helped the country to live with Covid and saved thousands of lives.

'All vaccines being used in the UK have undergone robust clinical trials and have met the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency's (MHRA) strict standards of safety, effectiveness and quality.'

At the time of the vaccine rollout, Lisa was thrilled to get the call for her jab.

'She wanted to hug her mum again,' Gareth recalls. 'But she also thought it was the right thing to do, the responsible thing. She'd seen some friends and one of them had decided not to have the vaccine, which she couldn't believe.'

Lisa was an intelligent and informed woman  she had studied journalism at university  but only after she died did Gareth start questioning some of the conversations they had had about the vaccine.

Something that torments him today is that, in March 2021  just weeks before they were called for their vaccines  the AstraZeneca vaccine was mired in controversy. Other European countries, including France and Germany, had stopped using it over concerns about blood clots. No alarm bells rang. There was no sense of hesitation in their home.

'We watched it on the news and I remember having a conversation with Lisa about it, and us concluding that it was all about Brexit  the Germans were annoyed with Britain for leaving the EU, so they weren't going to have a British-made vaccine.

'But now, I want to know what those countries saw in the reports that made them pull back on AstraZeneca.

'Did Boris see those reports too and know that people were going to die? Was my wife collateral damage?'

These are difficult questions  but legitimate ones for any grieving widower to ask. Gareth's frustrations are that, in asking them, he has been made to feel as if he has stepped out of line.

At the peak of the pandemic, you could argue that it was in the public interest not to fuel fears about vaccines. Now? Gareth says the pendulum has swung too far in that direction.

'I went on TV shortly after Lisa died, but I'd love the opportunity to speak to the likes of Lorraine Kelly or Holly Willoughby without them rushing to point out the 'alternative view . . . the safe and effective stats'. There is no debate about this. My wife died!

Gareth said he contemplated suicide the Christmas after Lisa died, but Zach stopped him

Gareth said he still sleeps with Lisa's t-shirt under his pillow

'But people like me have been made to feel that we are crackpots or conspiracy theorists. It's a dirty secret. If you question it, you are accused of being an anti-vaxxer, or almost of being unpatriotic in some way.

'But we aren't crackpots. We are husbands and wives and families who just want answers. Taking legal action now seems to be the only way of getting them.'

He argues that the lack of public discourse 'actually fuels the crackpots, because if you have a void there, then it will be filled with nonsense'. He has no patience, either, for the argument that in unprecedented times, difficult decisions were  and are  necessary for the greater public good.

'How dare they tell me that,' he says. 'Because the decision I had to make was whether to let my six-year-old son come to his mother's funeral.'

His grief is still raw. He tells me that he still sleeps with Lisa's T-shirt under the pillow, still wishes it was him who had died after having the vaccine, rather than Lisa.

'Zach would have been better having his mam,' he says. 'At that age, children need their mums more than their dads. There is nothing that can take the place of a mammy hug.'

He and Lisa got together in 2011, while both were working for the same radio station. She was one of the star presenters; he worked upstairs, on the advertising side. He admired her from afar, then one day sneaked down 'and said the printer on our floor was broken, which was a lie'.

He could not believe that someone like Lisa  'so bubbly, positive, vibrant'  would be interested in him, but she was.

Zach arrived in 2015; in 2018 they got married. 'Life was perfect. She was perfect. She turned my life around,' he says. 'I suffer from anxiety, and just having Lisa there made everything better.

'I always say that she knew me better than I knew myself. She gave me the instruction manual for life. My problem is that she took it with her.'

The realisation that Lisa was seriously ill did not happen until quite late. She tried 'all the usual things' when she started to develop headaches a week after her vaccine. When over-the-counter medicines didn't work, she consulted her GP, and ended up having blood tests  which flagged a serious issue.

'It was about her platelets being low. They sent an ambulance in the middle of the night, but even then there was no panic about it. She was up and dressed. She walked to the ambulance. Her sister had come to look after Zach and she didn't even hug her. It didn't occur to any of us that she wouldn't come home again.'

Even as things became desperate, he was perhaps in denial.

'It just didn't seem possible. I remember after she had the surgery, they were saying that if she did pull through, she might not be the same. There could be brain damage. I said, 'We will deal with it, whatever'.'

The whole country was in shock at Lisa's death, and the reasons for it  which were widely reported. Memories are muddy now though, and Gareth says he constantly feels the need to 'prove' in some way that she died from the vaccine. 'I feel I have to whip out the death certificate or quote the coroner.'

Gareth also said he still wishes it was him who had died after having the vaccine, rather than Lisa

Despite the awful tragedy, Gareth added that little Zach is thriving

He also said he saw a therapist who also treated the children

He contemplated suicide the Christmas after Lisa died. What stopped him? Zach, of course.

'I saw a therapist who said she had treated children who had lost a parent, and they had gone on to have happy lives, but she'd also treated children who had lost a parent, then a second one  to suicide. They never recovered.'

He is hard on himself, and it cannot be easy coping with single parenthood amid such grief, but Zach seems to be thriving. There is a close-knit wider family, including Lisa's three sisters, two of whom live close by.

How, as a society, should we support families like this, who have found themselves in a dreadful predicament through no fault of their own? There is official recognition for families who have been affected by the vaccine.

Those who have suffered ill health are entitled to financial support under the Government-run Vaccine Damage Payment Scheme. But this was not designed for Covid-related situations (it was launched in 1979) and payments are limited to 120,000 per claim and applications must prove severe disablement.

Gareth was incredulous when he got the application forms. 'There was no option to say your loved-one had died. It was all about proving they were disabled.

'I had to amend my form. Even then it took over a year for them to pay out.'

The sense of injustice among all the families in this class action is strong. Some talk of feeling like war veterans who were sent to the front line, did what was required of them by their country, and have now been abandoned.

Last week, the British Medical Journal reported that, in response to a Freedom of Information request, NHS Business Services (which operates the Vaccine Damage Payment Scheme) revealed that it had received 4,017 claims relating to Covid vaccines. Of those, 334 were for a death.

Gareth's solicitor, Sarah Moore, a partner in the Hausfeld law firm, one of two bringing this action, stresses that a legal action was a last resort. 'The Vaccine Damage Payment Scheme is not working. It fails to provide those who have been bereaved or seriously injured by vaccination with adequate financial support, and of course it only pays out where 60 per cent disablement can be proven.'

An AstraZeneca spokesman said the company could not comment about ongoing legal matters, but stressed that 'patient safety is our highest priority and regulatory authorities have clear and stringent standards to ensure the safe use of all medicines, including vaccines.'

They added: 'Regulators around the world state that the benefits of vaccination outweigh the risks of extremely rare potential side-effects.'

Whatever the outcome, this will be a difficult one to explain to a little boy who has lost his mum.

Rare complication? 'It wasn't rare in our house, was it?' says Gareth.
Ministers faced a growing backlash last night over 'nanny state' plans for the nationwide test of a controversial smartphone emergency alert system this weekend.

Millions of mobiles will issue a ten-second siren-like sound at 3pm on Sunday as part of a UK-wide Government trial of the technology.

Tory former Cabinet minister Jacob Rees-Mogg revealed he is among those defying the Prime Minister's plea not to switch off the alerts.

There is also fury that the contract to run the scheme, worth nearly 5.7million of taxpayers' cash, has gone to Fujitsu, the tech giant behind the Post Office IT scandal that saw innocent postmasters jailed.

Mr Rees-Mogg praised The Daily Mail for printing a guide for readers to switch off the alerts after women's charities and motoring groups also voiced fears over the impact on domestic abuse victims and drivers when the siren sounds. He urged the public to 'switch off the unnecessary and intrusive alert'.

Ministers faced a growing backlash last night over 'nanny state' plans for the nationwide test of a controversial smartphone emergency alert system this weekend

Tory former Cabinet minister Jacob Rees-Mogg revealed he is among those defying the Prime Minister's plea not to switch off the alerts

Mr Rees-Mogg, who was Brexit opportunities minister last summer when the Government committed to rolling out the scheme, told GB News: 'It is back to the nanny state  warning us, telling us, mollycoddling us when instead they should just let people get on with their lives and make sensible decisions for themselves.'

But a Government source accused Mr Rees-Mogg of just 'chirping from the sidelines', adding: 'Jacob himself was a senior minister in the Cabinet Office when the Government decided to do this so he has a short memory. People are free to turn it off, but it is intended to be used very rarely and only in cases where lives are in real danger.'

A poll of Mail+ readers last night revealed around 65 per cent of respondents believe the Government should not be sending the alerts. Downing Street said the system would only be used in emergencies such as flooding, and urged people to keep their phones switched on.

Rishi Sunak's official spokesman said: 'We are not prescriptive, but we do think this is the system to alert people to significant danger so of course we would encourage people to opt in.'

The lucrative Government contract for the alert system has been awarded to Fujitsu, the Japanese firm responsible for the faulty Post Office Horizon IT software which left innocent sub-postmasters with criminal convictions for fraud and false accounting.

A handful even took their own lives during the scandal.

Mr Rees-Mogg praised The Daily Mail for printing a guide for readers to switch off the alerts

Women's charities and motoring groups also voiced fears over the impact on domestic abuse victims and drivers when the siren sounds

Meanwhile, a public inquiry is examining who was responsible for the affair, which has resulted in the Post Office paying out more than 30million in compensation. Fujitsu has never apologised.

Conservative peer Lord Arbuthnot, who led the calls for a judge-led inquiry into the scandal, said: 'The Government's financial exposure to problems caused by Fujitsu's Horizon system is eye-wateringly huge. And Fujitsu knew that Horizon was causing these problems.

'Yet Fujitsu has kept completely silent about the chaos, cost and human misery its Horizon system has caused.

'Why on Earth would the Government open itself to a re-run of this disaster? I don't understand it.'

And Conservative MP Lucy Allan  who described the Horizon scandal as 'appalling'  said it was 'wholly inappropriate' that Fujitsu had been awarded the contract.

She added: 'Fujitsu played a pivotal role in the Post Office Horizon scandal.

'Senior Fujitsu UK executives, in post at the material time, such as Michael Keegan, have yet to be held to account for this grotesque injustice.'

Conservative peer Lord Arbuthnot and Tory MP Lucy Allan condemned the alert system being awarded to Fujitsu, the Japanese firm responsible for the faulty Post Office Horizon IT software which left innocent sub-postmasters with criminal convictions for fraud and false accounting

She said she would ask ministers what role Mr Keegan, the Crown Representative at the Cabinet Office  the Government department rolling out the alerts system  had in the decision to award the contract to Fujitsu.

The company is being paid 5million to run the alert service, on top of a further 665,000 to develop it.

Fujitsu was last year granted the 48million contract to maintain the Police National Computer database, despite peers claiming such a decision was 'appalling'.

And concerns remain over its suitability given hackers accessed its information-sharing tool connected with government records in Japan in 2021. Fujitsu has declined to comment.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass is proposing a record-breaking $1.3 billion budget that would see the city buy up hotels to house homeless residents.

The Democrat, who was elected in November after promising to take on the city's out-of-control homeless crisis, said the budget would also provide homeless people with treatment programs.

Her remarks, made in an annual address to the LA City Council on the state of the city on Monday, came roughly four months into her first term.

The mayor's administration is already combing through its inventory of properties to identify what could be used for sheltering homeless people.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass proposed a $1.3billion budget to battle the city's homelessness

Homeless encampments are a common sight throughout many neighborhoods in Los Angeles

The move is part of her Inside Safe homeless program, which offers homeless people motel rooms and a path to permanent housing with services. The program has more than 1,000 enrollees so far, Bass said.

Meanwhile, Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom has promised to deliver 500 units of temporary housing to the city, while the Biden administration has sent the city and county more than $200 million for homeless programs.

Bass, speaking inside the ornate City Council chambers, characterized the budget proposal as a long-awaited resolution to LA's homeless problem.

'After years of frustration... we can see a clearer path to a new Los Angeles,' she said. 'We have finally dispelled the myth that people do not want to come inside. They do.'

Bass' optimism would be expected for a mayor in the early months of a first term, but it also belies looming challenges that could reshape her time in office.

The city has expanded spending on homeless programs for years and former Mayor Eric Garcetti signed a budget in 2021 with nearly $1 billion in homeless spending - but the unhoused population has continued to increase.

Bass has already begun housing homeless people in rooms at handful of hotels and motels across LA, but critics - and some participants - have complained of being moved so many times through the program that they've begun to feel more uprooted than they did when they lived in sidewalk tents.

'It felt like I had a home,' Princeton Parker, a 38-year-old participant of Bass' Inside Safe program, told the LA Times about the first hotel he was moved into.

But then he and others were moved out of the hotel, and bounced between two more over the course of a single week.

'I was extremely excited,' he said, explaining that he was left feeling isolated by the moves. 'And they just took that from me.'

Bass' challenge is in plain sight in just about any neighborhood across LA, where homeless people can be seen living in trash-strewn encampments or rusty RVs along streets, below underpasses and clustered around freeway exits.

About half the homeless population - totaling over 40,000 citywide - struggles with drug or alcohol addiction, and about a third have serious mental illnesses. Homeless deaths average five a day.

Two homeless men outside a tent on the sidewalk of Los Angeles in December

Paramedics tend to a homeless man who overdosed in downtown Los Angeles in April

Some economists see a recession coming that could slash city tax revenue and threaten Bass' spending homeless proposal, though opinions are divided on the direction of the economy.

A recent report from city Controller Kenneth Mejia outlined a series of other concerns, including the need to invest more in repairing crumbling streets and sidewalks and higher pension costs for retirees that 'already consume fully 15 percent of the city's general fund budget.'

Meanwhile, crime rates have been climbing, including car thefts and shootings, while the police department has seen its staffing levels drop. Bass warned the number of police officers could drop below 9,000 - a tally not seen since 2002.

Bass said her budget for the year that begins July 1 recommends hiring hundreds of officers, along with a recruitment campaign and incentives for new hires. It also funnels new dollars into a team of social workers and clinical psychologists who could respond to emergency calls when a police officer is not required.

'We know safety goes far beyond lights and sirens,' she said.

Bass, the first Black woman to serve as LA's mayor who was on President Joe Biden's short list for vice president, defeated billionaire businessman Rick Caruso in the November election.

She anchored her campaign to getting homeless people off the streets and into shelters, reversing spiking crime rates and developing housing that working-class families can afford.
Newly-promoted shadow minister Jacinta Price has defended her mission to destroy Labor's Indigenous Voice to Parliament and insisted: 'I have to do this.'

The former deputy mayor of Alice Springs was yesterday appointed the Coalition's shadow minister for Indigenous Affairs in Opposition leader Peter Dutton's reshuffle.

She replaces Julian Leeser who resigned from the shadow cabinet after the Liberal Party confirmed it would be campaigning for a No vote in the upcoming referendum on enshrining the Voice in the constitution.

Senator Price was tackled over her new role on Seven's Sunrise on Wednesday and host Natalie Barr quizzed her on the criticism she would face.

She said she was braced for the backlash she would suffer because of her high-profile new job, but said she was used to abuse.

Newly-promoted shadow minister Jacinta Price (pictured) has defended her mission to destroy Labor's Indigenous Voice to Parliament and insisted: 'I had to do this'

'I've been prepared all my life,' the Northern Territory Country Liberal senator said.

'When it comes to Indigenous politics, if you can survive that, you can just about survive anything.

'I have been attacked and vilified online for some time now. It's nothing new to me. When there are children suffering in silence, I have to do this. I'm obliged to do this.

'I'm in a privileged position and therefore it's my job to fight on their behalf.'

She said she was ready for the personal attacks that were set to come her way, but said she was on a mission to help those most in need.

'It is absolutely a role that I understand does come with a lot of criticism,' she said. 'I don't mind constructive criticism at all.

'But there is a lot of nastiness that goes around out there.

'I do what I do because I know there are people who are voiceless, who are marginalised, who do need someone to champion what's going on in their lives for them, especially our children.

'That's what pushes me along. I think my concern sometimes is certainly for my family. But otherwise I treat it as water off a duck's back because the work that I have to do is really, really important.'

She said her focus would be on tackling problems facing Indigenous Australians in remote communities, and insisted they were not born disadvantaged because of their race.

'My focus would be where people's first language is not English,' she said.

'Where people are still living close to the traditional way of life and where services are very, very limited.

'And that is where my focus would primarily be - to alleviate the most disadvantaged in this country, and not treat all indigenous Australians as though we are disadvantaged simply because of our race.

'We aren't inherently disadvantaged because of our race as a group of people.'

Senator Jacinta Price was deputy mayor of Alice Springs which has been rocked by a crime wave (pictured) over the past year, but she says the Voice would make no difference

Senator Price insisted the Voice to Parliament would not solve any of the inherent problems facing remote communities - like the crime wave in Alice Springs - and would instead split the country.

'It isn't something new - bureaucracies set up to help with Indigenous disadvantage have always existed,' she said.

'The only difference is suggesting we put this in our Constitution, which I believe divides us along the lines of a race.

'I think we should be able to get on with the everyday work we do to alleviate disadvantage without having to make amendments to our constitution.'
Two ute drivers allegedly became locked in a vicious road rage dispute that unfolded over several hours on Tuesday evening - with three passengers of one vehicle allegedly beaten by a group of eight men.

The dispute began when two Toyota Hiluxes pulled up on Restwell Street in Bankstown in Sydney's west about 8.40pm on Tuesday night.

Three passengers inside a white HiLux were reportedly arguing with the driver of a black HiLux.

Two ute drivers allegedly became locked in a vicious dispute that unfolded over multiple hours leaving three people injured (stock image)

Both cars drove off from the scene but the alleged road rage incident came to a head when the cars collided at the intersection of Macauley Street.

The cars collided a second time before the black ute drove away.

The three passengers of the white vehicle - aged 21, 33, and 44 - rushed to Bankstown Police Station where they reported the incident.

When they left the police station at 9.30pm and drove back past the scene, they allege the same black ute was waiting and a third collision occurred.

Police then received multiple triple-0 calls reporting that three people were being assaulted by up to eight people near Restwell Street.

Officers were on the scene within minutes, but the group had vanished.

Paramedics treated the three people from the white ute for minor injuries.

As inquiries continue police are appealing for anyone with information about the incident - or any available mobile phone or dashcam footage - to contact Bankstown Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Republicans blocked a Democratic request to temporarily replace Sen. Dianne Feinstein of California on the Senate Judiciary Committee on Tuesday afternoon - effectively putting President Joe Biden's judicial nominees on ice until further notice.

Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, the top Republican on the Senate Judiciary Committee, objected to a resolution by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer that would have allowed another senator to take Democrat Feinstein's place as she recovers from a case of shingles.

At 89, the Senate's oldest member has been absent since February, and her office has given no date for her return.

Republicans have argued that Democrats only want a stand-in to push through the most partisan judges, noting that many of Biden's nominees have bipartisan support and can move to the Senate floor for a vote.

Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) has not returned D.C. since February while battling shingles.

'Let's be clear,' said McConnell in remarks on the Senate floor. 'Senate Republicans will not take part in sidelining a temporarily absent colleague off a committee just so Democrats can force through their very worst nominees.'

The Senate Minority Leader returned from medical leave on Monday following a five-week-long absence due to a concussion and cracked rib.

The gridlock is creating a headache for Democrats hoping to use their majority to confirm as many of President Joe Biden's judicial nominees as possible.

But her absence 'has really not ground the Judiciary Committee to a halt,' McConnell said on the Senate floor. He said the panel had reported out more than 50 nominees.

'So the administration does not face any obstacle to moving nominees who are remotely qualified for the job,' he said. 'And yet some of the same far-left voices who attacked Sen. Feinstein in the past are now suggesting that the Senate move her off the Judiciary Committee indefinitely  indefinitely,' he said.

Ahead of the vote, Schumer said the replacement for Feinstein would be Democratic Sen. Ben Cardin, a lawyer and third-term senator from Maryland. Schumer would not answer questions about whether he thinks Feinstein should consider resigning, but said he had spoken to Feinstein and she and I are both very hopeful that she will return soon.

Feinstein has come under increasing pressure to resign or step down from her duties. While she has defended her effectiveness, she has also faced questions in recent years about her cognitive health and memory and appears increasingly frail.

Republican Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa, a longtime member of the panel who is almost the same age as Feinstein, chastised Democrats for denying Feinstein the opportunity to become chairman of the committee and trying to force her out of office 'because she's old.'

'I don't intend to give credence to that sort of anti-human treatment,' Grassley said.

Some Democrats have called for her resignation including Rep. Ro Khanna, D-California, saying it is 'unacceptable' for her to miss votes to confirm judges who could be weighing in on abortion rights, a key Democratic priority.

Democratic Rep. Pete Aguilar, said Tuesday that Feinstein is 'a legend in California politics and a legend in the Senate chamber' but that her vote will be needed as Congress tries to figure out how to raise the debt ceiling this year.

'I will say that our expectation as House Democrats is that every senator is going to need to participate,' he said, adding that 'she should get to choose that timeline.'
Three law enforcement officials have been suspended from the Oklahoma Sheriffs' Association (OSA), after audio recordings allegedly revealed them discussing killing journalists and lamenting that they could no longer lynch black people.

McCurtain County Sheriff Kevin Clardy, Sheriff's Captain Alicia Manning, and Jail Administrator Larry Hendrix were suspended from the group following a unanimous vote at an emergency meeting on Tuesday, OSA confirmed in a statement.

OSA is a membership organization, not a regulatory body, and the three officials, along with District 2 Commissioner Mark Jennings, remain in their posts despite Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt's call for them to resign.

In a statement on Monday, the McCurtain County Sheriff's Office claimed that the vile audio recordings were 'illegally obtained' and had 'yet to be duly authenticated or validated.'

'Our preliminary information indicates that the media released audio recording has, in fact, been altered,' the sheriff's office claimed.

McCurtain County Sheriff Kevin Clardy (left), Sheriff's Captain Alicia Manning (right), and Jail Administrator Larry Hendrix (not pictured) were suspended from the Oklahoma Sheriffs' Association on Tuesday following a unanimous vote at an emergency meeting

In the tapes released by the McCurtain Gazette-News, Manning and Jennings appear to be recorded at a March 6 county commissioners meeting as they discuss killing reporters Bruce and Chris Willingham, whose family has run the paper for decades.

According to the paper, Jennings tells Clardy and Manning 'I know where two deep holes are dug if you ever need them,' and the sheriff responded, 'I've got an excavator.'

The Commissioner also allegedly says he knows 'two or three hit men' in Louisiana, adding 'they're very quiet guys' and would 'cut no f****** mercy'.

As Manning prepared to travel near to the newspaper's office, she reportedly said that she was 'worried about what I might do to him', referring to Chris Willingham.

She reportedly goes on to say how her father would have 'whipped his ass, would have wiped him and used him for toilet paper,' and 'started to go down there and just kill him'.

In another vile exchange, the group discusses people applying for the role of Sheriff and how they thought the job had changed.

According to the newspaper, Jennings says: 'They don't have a goddamn clue what they're getting into. Not this day and age.

'I'm gonna tell you something. If it was back in the day, when that Alan Marshton would take a damn black guy and whoop their ass and throw him in the cell? I'd run for f****** sheriff.'

He went on: 'Take them down to Mud Creek and hang them up with a d**n rope. But you can't do that anymore. They got more rights than we got.'

District 2 Commissioner Mark Jennings was also allegedly caught on the recording, as officials discussed killing journalists and complained about not being able to lynch black people

McCurtain Co. Sheriff Kevin Clardy and Sheriff's Captain Alicia Manning have not spoken out since the story broke over the weekend

People from Idabel call for the resignation of several McCurtain County officials, early Monday after tapes with the officials' racist comments surfaced over the weekend

The Oklahoma Sheriff's Association confirmed it had suspended three officials over the audio

Further audio appears to show the Sheriff and Hendrix comparing the victim of a house fire to meat on a 'barbecue'.

Governor Stitt, a Republican, said on Sunday that he is seeking the resignations of Clardy, Manning and Jennings, as well as Hendrix.

Talk about lynching caught on tape In a short exchange, two men alleged to be District 2 Commissioner Mark Jennings and Sheriff Kevin Clardy can be heard discussing violence against black people. Jennings: It's like somebody wanting this job, they don't realize, like your job. I heard it the other day, said I heard 2 or 12 people were going for sheriff. I said fuck, lets get 20. They don't have a goddamn clue what they're getting into. Not this day and age. I'm gonna tell you something. If it was back in the day, when that -- when Alan Marshton would take a damn black guy and whoop their ass and throw him in the cell? I'd run for fucking sheriff. Sheriff: Yeah. Well, It's not like that no more. Jennings: I know. Take them down to Mud Creek and hang them up with a damn rope. But you can't do that anymore. They got more rights than we got. Advertisement

'I am both appalled and disheartened to hear of the horrid comments made by officials in McCurtain County,' Stitt said in a statement.

'There is simply no place for such hateful rhetoric in the state of Oklahoma, especially by those that serve to represent the community through their respective office.'

Republican governor Stitt said he has ordered the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation to 'initiate an investigation to determine whether any illegal conduct has occurred.'

Bruce Willingham, the local newspaper publisher, said he has also turned over his audio recordings to the FBI and the Oklahoma Attorney General's Office and added he has had several conversations with federal investigators.

A spokeswoman for the FBI's office in Oklahoma City said the agency's policy is not to confirm or deny any ongoing investigation.

Phil Bacharach, a spokesman for Attorney General Gentner Drummond, said the agency had received an audio recording and is investigating the incident, but declined to comment further.

The authenticity of the recording could not be immediately verified.

In a statement, the McCurtain County Sheriff's Office tried to cast doubt on the recordings, while also claiming they were illegally obtained in violation of state laws that ban secret recordings.

'There is and has been an ongoing investigation into multiple, significant violation of the Oklahoma Security of Communications Act, Title 13, Chapters 176.3 and 176.4 which states that it is illegal to secretly record a conversation in which you are not involved and do not have the consent of at least one of the involved parties,' the statement said.

'There is a significant number of victims of this criminal activity and it has taken significant effort and time to identify them and corroborate evidence.'

The sheriff's office added: 'This is a very complex situation and one we regret having to address.'

On Monday, more than 100 people gathered outside the McCurtain County Courthouse in Idabel, with many of them calling for the sheriff and other county officials to resign over the scandal.

McCurtain County residents call for the resignation of several McCurtain County officials after tapes with the officials' racist comments surfaced over the weekend, in Idabel, Oklahoma

On Monday, more than 100 people gathered outside the McCurtain County Courthouse in Idabel, with many of them calling for the sheriff and other county officials to resign

Local resident Glenda Austin holds a sign with other protesters on Monday outside the McCurtain County Commissioners meeting room in Idabel

Bruce Willingham, the longtime publisher of the McCurtain Gazette-News, said the recording was made March 6 when he left a voice-activated recorder inside the room after a county commissioner's meeting

He said he did so because he suspected the group was continuing to conduct county business after the meeting had ended in violation of the state's Open Meeting Act.

'I talked on two different occasions to our attorneys to make sure I wasn't doing anything illegal,' Bruce Willingham said.

Bruce Willingham said he believes the local officials were upset about 'stories we've run that cast the sheriff's office in an unfavorable light,' including the death of Bobby Barrick, a Broken Bow, Oklahoma, man who died at a hospital in March 2022 after McCurtain County deputies shot him with a stun gun.

The newspaper has filed a lawsuit against the sheriff's office seeking body camera footage and other records connected to Barrick's death.

Joey Senat, a journalism professor at Oklahoma State University, said he was shocked to hear the comments made in the recording, especially in light of recent killings of journalists in the US.

Last year, a Las Vegas-area elected official was accused of fatally stabbing a veteran newspaper reporter who had been investigating him.

'The whole conversation seemed deplorable,' Senat said. 'I was shocked as I assume most people were not only about the comments about journalists, but the racist comments regarding African Americans. Joking doesnt excuse that.'

Senat said under Oklahoma law, the recording would be legal if it were obtained in a place where the officials being recorded did not have a reasonable expectation of privacy.

McCurtain County is in far southeast Oklahoma, bordering both Arkansas and Texas, in a part of the state often referred to as 'Little Dixie,' because of the influence in the area from white Southerners who migrated there after the Civil War.

With its rolling, forested hills in the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains, the area has become a tourism hotbed attracting a steady stream of visitors from the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

State Rep. Eddy Dempsey, a Republican who represents the area in the Oklahoma House, said the recorded comments don't reflect the values of his constituents and echoed Stitt's call for the four people involved in the conversation to resign.

'All my life, we've always said we don't get enough recognition in southeast Oklahoma,' Dempsey said. 'But we don't need this kind of recognition.'
A 'new class' of Russian hackers are trying to cripple Britain's infrastructure, Cabinet Minister Oliver Dowden warns today.

Kremlin-aligned groups such as Wagner are launching potentially devastating attacks to 'disrupt or destroy', targeting infrastructure in key sectors such as energy and utilities, the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster will tell a cyber conference.

The UK's National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) is set to issue an official threat notice to critical national infrastructure operators today, warning that they face an unpredictable 'new class of Russian cyber adversary' desperate to wreak havoc in Britain.

Outlining the threat at the CyberUK Conference in Belfast, Mr Dowden will set out how ideologically driven groups are launching unrestrained attacks on companies responsible for 'keeping the lights on'.

In the past few months, several groups aligned to Russian president Vladimir Putin have turned their focus towards the UK, having learned lessons from the conflict in Ukraine where cyber attacks have taken down the national power grid, interfered with nuclear power plants and satellite communication systems.

Vladimir Putin visiting the headquarters of the Dnieper army group in the Kherson Region, April Wagner

Kremlin-aligned groups such as Wagner are launching potentially devastating attacks to 'disrupt or destroy', targeting infrastructure in key sectors such as energy and utilities, the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster will tell a cyber conference (File image)

A 'new class' of Russian hackers are trying to cripple Britain's infrastructure, Cabinet Minister Oliver Dowden (pictured) warns today

Mr Dowden will say: 'These are the companies in charge of keeping our country running.

'Our shared prosperity depends on them taking their own security seriously. A bricks-and-mortar business wouldn't survive if it left the back door open to criminals every night. Equally, in today's world, businesses can't afford... to leave their digital back door open to cyber crooks and hackers.'

In January, Royal Mail was hit by a cyber attack which was linked to Russia and last year South Staffordshire Plc, the parent company of South Staffs Water and Cambridge Water, was also the target of a criminal cyber attack.

The NCSC alert says: 'Over the past 18 months, a new class of Russian cyber adversary has emerged. These state-aligned groups are often sympathetic to Russia's invasion and are ideologically, rather than financially, motivated.

'Although these groups can align to Russia's perceived interests, they are often not subject to formal state control, and so their actions are less constrained and their targeting broader than traditional cyber crime actors. This makes them less predictable. We expect these groups to look for opportunities to create an impact, particularly if systems are poorly protected.'

Outlining the threat at the CyberUK Conference in Belfast, Mr Dowden will set out how ideologically driven groups are launching unrestrained attacks on companies responsible for 'keeping the lights on'. Pictured: Head of Wagner Group Yevgeny Prigozhin (L) assists Vladimir Putin

Research by cyber security services firm Bridewell identified a 50 per cent rise in ransomware threats against the UK's infrastructure in the past year. Pictured: A mercenary from the Wagner Group is pictured in Ukraine

Today, Mr Dowden will unveil a series of measures to encourage businesses 'on the front line of our cyber defences' to strengthen their security. He will announce cyber resilience targets that all critical national infrastructure sectors will have to meet by 2025.

Mr Dowden will also unveil enhanced cyber security measures to protect the Government's critical IT systems. The warning comes as research shows that 78 per cent of officials responsible for cyber security in the critical infrastructure sectors are worried about cyber attacks.

Research by cyber security services firm Bridewell identified a 50 per cent rise in ransomware threats against the UK's infrastructure in the past year.

A poll of 500 IT security staff across transport and aviation, utilities, finance, government and communications sectors revealed that seven in ten had seen a rise in cyber attacks since Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
Nurses who refuse to provide life-saving cancer care during upcoming strikes will put patients at risk, health leaders and charities have warned.

The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) was last night coming under growing pressure to make a U-turn on plans to abandon sick cancer patients in pursuit of a bigger pay rise.

The union revealed it will escalate industrial action by demanding that nurses walk out of A&E, intensive care units and cancer wards for the first time later this month.

The 48-hour picket, beginning at 8pm on April 30, comes after members narrowly rejected an offer of a 5 per cent pay rise and a one-off bonus of up to 3,789.

The RCN has demanded fresh talks but Rishi Sunak has insisted that there will be no more money to improve the deal, which has already been accepted by Unison, the biggest health union.

NHS Nurses from the Royal College of Nursing form a picket line as they strike for safe staffing levels, fair pay and working conditions outside St Thomas Hospital on 6th February 2023

The decision to disrupt cancer services, taken in February, comes as latest figures show that more than 2,000 patients with the disease in England waited more than a month to start treatment.

In addition, almost 6,000 patients with cancer waited more than two months to start treatment following an urgent GP referral for suspected cancer.

The longer that patients wait for a diagnosis and treatment, the more likely a tumour is to have spread, lowering their chances of survival.

Michelle Mitchell, the chief executive of Cancer Research UK, said: The possibility of ongoing strike action is a huge worry for patients and their loved ones. We urge all parties to work together to ensure that people dont miss out on life-saving services.

Miriam Deakin, of NHS Providers, which represents NHS trusts, said: The planned strike with no exceptions for cancer services is a huge worry and risks compromising patients care.

An RCN spokesperson said: Nursing staff dont want to go on strike.

We have given the NHS and government two weeks to plan for this and its the responsibility of the employer to maintain safe staffing levels.

Wed expect them to cancel non-urgent clinical work and elective procedures due to take place over the strike period.

We know this is a difficult task and there are exceptional circumstances where we would call it off in any hospital.

But we must remember employers already make difficult staffing arrangements work on most days.

Nurses are constantly having to make do with too little staff or not enough beds for people.

This level of pressure cant go on any longer.

It's time to turn the tables  the government will have to make do without our members.

The government cant tell them they are too valuable to strike but not valuable enough to pay them fairly.

Its time they put an offer on the table that reflects the difference nurses make to our lives.
It's the most popular messaging app in the UK, but WhatsApp could soon be banned if it refuses to comply with the new Online Safety Bill.

Under the Bill, tech companies will have a duty to find and remove illegal content being distributed through their social networking platforms.

But this could mean doing away with 'end-to-end encryption' - a security feature which scrambles messages to ensure that only the sender and recipient can read them.

Messaging services that use it, including WhatsApp, Signal, Viber and Element, have signed an open letter opposing the Online Safety Bill ahead of its final reading in the House of Lords.

'The UK government is currently considering new legislation that opens the door to trying to force technology companies to break end-to-end encryption on private messaging services,' it reads.

It's the most popular messaging app in the UK, but WhatsApp could soon be banned if it refuses to comply with the new Online Safety Bill (file image)

An open letter opposing the Online Safety Bill has been signed by Will Cathcart (pictured), Meta's head of WhatsApp, who said that he would would refuse to comply with it last month

'The law could give an unelected official the power to weaken the privacy of billions of people around the world.

WHAT IS THE ONLINE SAFETY BILL? Hailed as groundbreaking regulation of the tech sector, the aim of the Online Safety Bill is to introduce rules to social media and other user-generated content-based sites that compel them to remove illegal material from their platforms, with a particular emphasis on protecting children from harmful content. In addition, the largest platforms  such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter  will have to tackle named forms of 'legal but harmful' content, which could include issues such as promoting self-harm or eating disorders. Under the bill, all platforms in scope will have a duty to find and remove illegal content, as well as have clear and robust terms and conditions in place. Companies which breach these new rules face fines which could run into billions of pounds for the largest services or face being blocked. All this would be overseen by communications regulator Ofcom, which is set to become the new regulator of the sector. Advertisement

'We don't think any company, government or person should have the power to read your personal messages and we'll continue to defend encryption technology.'

It claims that end-to-end encryption is 'one of the strongest possible defenses' against threats like online fraud, scams and data theft.

The signatories also claim that a 'British internet', which has its own version of weakened security, cannot be created by global apps to suit the UK government.

It is signed by Will Cathcart, Meta's head of WhatsApp, who openly said that he would would refuse to comply with the Online Safety Bill last month.

Speaking ahead of a meeting with UK legislators to discuss the proposed law, Mr Cathcart described the Bill as the most concerning piece of legislation currently being discussed in the western world.

And in September, he openly said it was 'puzzling' that governments wanted to weaken security in this way, not bolster it.

WhatsApp cannot see messages sent via its own service, and so cannot comply with law enforcement requests to either hand them over for anti-terror purposes or to identify and remove child-abuse material, for example.

But the UK Government insists that it is possible to have both privacy and child safety.

The Online Safety Bill has been working its way through Parliament since being published in draft form in May 2021.

It is designed to help clamp down on online trolling and illegal forms of pornography by placing more responsibility on the platforms that internet users use.

As part of this, it allows the UK Government or regulator Ofcom to require companies to scan the contents of messages sent through their platforms for illegal content.

However, doing so would likely force them to weaken or do away with their own security measures.

WhatsApp, Signal and Element use end-to-end encryption on all messages, scrambling them so that they cannot be read by anyone other than the intended recipient (stock image)

WHAT IS END-TO-END ENCRYPTION? End-to-end encryption ensures only the two participants of a chat can read messages, and no one in between  not even the company that owns the service. End-to-end encryption is intended to prevent data being read or secretly modified when it is in transit between the two parties. The cryptographic keys needed to access the service are automatically provided only to the two people in each conversation. In decrypted form, messages are accessible by a third party  which makes them interceptable by governments for law enforcement reasons. Advertisement

The Government insisted that the Bill 'does not represent a ban on end-to-end encryption' and that 'we can and must have both' privacy and child safety.

But it also does not explicitly state how it would be possible to monitor message content and continue their encryption, creating a 'grey area'.

The open letter reads: 'The Bill provides no explicit protection for encryption, and if implemented as written, could empower Ofcom to try to force the proactive scanning of private messages on end-to-end encrypted communication services - nullifying the purpose of end-to-end encryption as a result and compromising the privacy of all users.'

The chief executive of secure messaging app Element, Matt Hodgson, who also signed the letter, said his company's ability to serve customers was under threat by the Bill.

'The UK wants its own special access into end-to-end encrypted systems,' he said.

'Bad actors don't play by the rules. Rogue nation states, terrorists, and criminals will target that access with every resource they have.

'[The Online Safety Bill] is outright dangerous. It's the cyber equivalent of Britain decommissioning its nuclear deterrent.'

The open letter does state that it 'is not too late to ensure that the Bill aligns with the Government's stated intention to protect end-to-end encryption'.

'The UK Government must urgently rethink the Bill, revising it to encourage companies to offer more privacy and security to its residents, not less,' it goes on.

Mr Cathcart previously urged the UK Government to add wording that differentiates private messaging apps from other social networks.

Instead of just making statements about the importance of encryption, he said they should put it in writing that encryption will be protected in the Online Safety Bill.

Mr Cathcart said: 'It could make clear that privacy and security should be considered in the framework.

'It could explicitly say that end-to-end encryption should not be taken away.

'There can be more procedural safeguards so that this can't just happen independently as a decision.'
Last weekend, stargazers in Alaska were treated to an unusual sight; an eerie, pale blue spiral that appeared in the night sky.

It emerged during a display of the Northern Lights, where charged particles from the sun interacted with the Earth's atmosphere to produce bright bands of green.

But despite its UFO or portal-like appearance, the mysterious spiral has a far more mundane explanation.

It was simply excess fuel that had been released from a SpaceX rocket that launched from California about three hours before the spiral appeared.

Similar phenomena occurred over Hawaii in January, and New Zealand last summer, thanks to Elon Musk's space ambitions.

Last weekend, stargazers in Alaska, USA were treated to an unusual sight; an eerie, pale blue spiral that appeared in the night sky. Pictured: The spiral appearing during the Northern Lights near Fairbanks, on Saturday April 15

It emerged during a display of the Northern Lights, where charged particles from the sun interacted with the Earth's atmosphere to produce bright bands of green

Sometimes rockets have fuel that needs to be jettisoned, said space physicist Dr Don Hampton, a research associate professor at the University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute.

WHY DOES THE SPIRAL APPEAR IN THE SKY? Experts say a mysterious spiral shape can appear in the night sky when a rocket vents unneeded fuel after launch. When the fuel is ejected, it freezes and crystallises in the shape of a spiral, which is then illuminated by the sun. In this latest instance, the upper stage of one of SpaceX's Falcon 9 rockets vented fuel shortly after lift-off, with a blue spiral then appearing over Hawaii. According to Spaceweather.com, 'SpaceX spirals' are a common sight over the Pacific. Advertisement

'When they do that at high altitudes, that fuel turns into ice,' he said.

'And if it happens to be in the sunlight, when you're in the darkness on the ground, you can see it as a sort of big cloud, and sometimes it's swirly.'

The SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket took off from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California on Friday night.

It was a polar launch, which made it visible over a large swath of Alaska.

The Falcon 9 had 51 spacecraft as its payload, which were being deployed as part of their Transporter-7 mission.

About three hours after launch, on early Saturday morning, a spiral emerged that was caused by water vapour in the rocket's exhaust fluids.

Experts say the spiral shape appears as the upper stage of the Falcon 9 vents unneeded fuel during its long descent into the ocean.

When the rocket fuel is ejected, it freezes and crystallises in the shape of a spiral, which is then illuminated by the sun.

The timing of the fuel dump was timed correctly for visibility over Alaska. 'And we got that really cool looking spiral thing,' said Dr Hampton.

But despite its UFO or portal-like appearance, the mysterious spiral has a far more mundane explanation. It was simply excess fuel that had been released from a SpaceX rocket that launched from California about three hours before the spiral appeared

Sometimes rockets have fuel that needs to be jettisoned, said space physicist Dr Don Hampton, a research professor at the University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute

While not a common sight, Dr Hampton said he's seen such occurrences about three times.

The appearance of the swirly cloud was caught in time-lapse on the Geophysical Institute's all-sky camera and shared widely.

'It created a bit of an Internet storm with that spiral,' said Dr Hampton.

Photographers out for the northern lights show also posted their photos on social media.

One Twitter user said: 'I think Aliens have arrived'

On Facebook, Randell Mailloux from Fairbanks, Anchorage posted a photo and wrote that it was the 'most insane thing [he'd] ever seen by far'.

He said: 'Started out looking like a spiral of northern lights until the center slowly came into view as it flew slowly across from horizon to horizon.

'Then the spiral spread out and covered the whole sky as it dissipated like a ripple in water.'

Elizabeth Withnall, a midwife in Kotzebue, Alaska photographed swirl in the sky while waiting to for the northern lights around 1:45 am on Saturday

It is not the first time a SpaceX launch has left observers thinking there might be UFOs present.

In January, another spiral was seen, but this time over Hawaii's Big Island.

It was caught on camera by the Subaru Telescope, located at the summit of Maunakea.

Researchers have said it was from the launch of a military GPS satellite that lifted off earlier on a SpaceX rocket in Florida.

In June last year, a mysterious blue spiral travelling across New Zealand's skies baffled onlookers who thought it had alien origins.

The spiralling plume of gas lit up the sky over Nelson, a city at the tip of New Zealand's south island, and travelled 466 miles (750km) south to Stewart Island.

However, experts later revealed that the phenomenon was caused by man-made space junk in the form of a dying rocket launched by Musk's company.

Last year SpaceX made a record-breaking 61 launches - nearly double its 31 lift-offs from 2021. So far in 2023 it has sent 24 rockets to space.

On Monday, the company's first orbital Starship launch failed due to technical issues, forcing Musk to postpone the mission for 'a few days.'

It is not the first time a SpaceX launch has left observers thinking there might be UFOs present. In January, another spiral was seen, but this time over Hawaii's Big Island (pictured)
Britain's first UFO tour is to be launched at the spot where 17 mysterious objects were spotted more than 40 years ago, reports say.

Ex-detective Gary Heseltine is to take Brits on a tour around Suffolk's curious Rendlesham Forest as part of a limited two-day event this summer, according to The Sun.

Dubbed 'Britain's Roswell', Rendlesham Forest was central to one of the most famous UFO sightings in the UK and has intrigued extra-terrestrial enthusiasts for decades.

It already hosts a nature trail circling the spot where spooky red and green lights were witnessed in 1980, but now Mr Hesteltine is taking this to the next level.

The tours follow the release of his book 'Non-Human The Rendlesham Forest Incidents: 42 years of Denial', which seeks to expose the 'murky' political world of the incident.

UFO hunter Gary Heseltine is set to host tours at Suffolk's Rendlesham Forest (pictured)

Mr Heseltine (pictured) claims the case has been surrounded by 'disinformation' and 'politics'

Mr Heseltine wrote: 'The Rendlesham Forest incident has often been referred to as "Britain's Roswell", and in terms of its significance in UFO history the comparison is well made.

'However, I have to say that in many aspects the RFI, as it has become known, is very, very different in certain key areas.

'After almost 14 years of public research into the RFI, I can think of no other case that has been subject of so much disinformation and damaging internal witness "political" infighting.'

Back in 1980, military personnel claimed to see lights hovering in the sky and descending into the woodland on three separate nights just before New Year.

While they were allegedly convinced these shapes were alien spacecraft, it has since been brushed off as a scaremongering prank played on the US air force by Britain's Special Air Service (SAS).

At the time, the SAS were said to have regularly tested the US security by probing the nearby perimeters of RAF Woodbridge which allegedly stored Nuclear warheads at the time of the Cold War.

On one occasion, the Brits were allegedly subjected to a brutal interrogation and beaten up by the US security before being released 18 hours later after authorities intervened.

British X-Files expert Dr David Clarke, a researcher of the case, previously said: 'After their release, the troopers made no complaint at their rough treatment but were determined to get their own back on the USAF for the beating that they had received.

Unusual red and green fluorescent lights were spotted at the forest in 1980 (file picture)

Pictured: The east gate at RAF Woodbridge, near the alleged incident is to have occurred

Rendlesham Forest already hosts a Forestry England nature trail circling the UFO spot

A 3-mile (5km) UFO trail is already available for keen alien hunters in Rendlesham Forest (pale purple dotted line)

Staff Sergeant Jim Penniston (right) and Airman John Burroughs (left) allegedly interacted with a UFO that landed in Rendlesham Forest on December 26, 1980

READ MORE: The unsuspecting village on the edge of the Peak District that's a 'UFO HOTSPOT' Bonsall has been central to numerous UFO sightings over the years, from spinning 'silver shapes' to green lights Advertisement

'In particular, their repeated characterisation as "aliens" sowed the seeds of a plan. They said: "They called us aliens. Right, we'll show them what aliens really look like".'

When December approached, it is said that lights and coloured flares were rigged in Rendlesham Forest.

Remote-controlled kites were also coupled with black helium balloons to carry suspended materials into the sky.

Then, across three days between December 26 and 28, military personnel witnessed strange lights in the woods near RAF Bentwaters and RAF Woodbridge.

'A great deal of nocturnal Christmas fun was had at the expense of the USAF - and the matter should have ended there,' according to a letter written to Dr Clarke by an alleged SAS source.

'Unfortunately, a senior US officer (Lt Col Halt) led the US contingent out into the forest on the second night and took along his tape recorder.

'The hovering and whizzing lights were sufficiently impressive for him to send a report to the MoD.

'Someone in London recalled the events of the previous August and questions were asked. A few red faces - but also some satisfaction and amusement - followed.

Charles Halt sent a memo to the UK's Ministry of Defence about the incident. The Ministry dismissed its potential significance

Halt (pictured in a portrait from his army days) told The Sun: 'I never said anyone was abducted'

'The USAF was "reassured" at a very senior level and no UK investigation was undertaken - for obvious reasons.'

Both the US military and British Ministry of Defence have rejected claims regarding aliens and spacecraft following the 1980 incident.

Charles Halt was a deputy commander in the US army at the time that John Burroughs, Airman First Class Edward Cabansag and Airman First Class Larry Warren investigated the lights

The Ministry of Defence reportedly said that there had been no threat to national security and the UFOs were likely caused by nocturnal lights.

Yet in 2018, a US air force colonel was videoed stating that one of the men involved in the 'British Roswell' may have been abducted by aliens.

Charles Halt was a deputy commander in the US army at the time that John Burroughs, Edward Cabansag and Larry Warren investigated the lights.

In footage released four years ago, Mr Halt says 'He [John Burroughs] may have been abducted, who knows... I don't play that up.'

However, when approached by The Sun, Halt accepted that 'something happened' but denied making these comments.

'I never said anyone was abducted,' he told them.

This speculation was also not mentioned in Mr Halt's original letter to the Ministry of Defence.

Yet, researcher Mr Heseltine continues to believe that the narrative of the case has been '"controlled" by a small number of people for over a quarter of a century'.

He wrote: 'The Roswell Story from July 1947, in simple terms, was the alleged recovery of a crashed alien craft and bodies with a single military and government agenda to cover it up.

'However, the RFI by comparison is much more complicated, with what appears to be several agendas at play.'

Mr Heseltine has been approached for comment.
It's the fast-growing technology that continues to fool millions of social media users around the world - but how adept are YOU at spotting a fake AI photo?

From the Pope posing in a puffer coat to Donald Trump being arrested on the streets of New York, images created by artificial intelligence are becoming increasingly convincing.

While some of the snaps are clearly fake and designed to amuse or make a political statement, there are experts who fear the technology's potential to become a weapon of mass disinformation.

It comes as a German artist who won the Sony World Photography Award this week refused to accept his prize after revealing his black and white portrait of two women was in fact created by AI.

Boris Eldagsen tricked competition organisers with his entry, Pseudomnesia: The Electrician - a haunting close-up of two women in a grainy sepia which won the creative open category

Boris Eldagsen tricked competition organisers with his entry, Pseudomnesia: The Electrician - a haunting close-up of two women in a grainy sepia which won the creative open category.

He stunned organisers by rejecting the award, claiming that 'AI is not photography' - as he hopes to create a discussion surrounding the future of art.

The World Photography Organisation, who run the Sony awards, told MailOnline that they had been deliberately mis-led by Eldagsen about the extent to which AI would be involved.

Below are some photos of celebrities, world leaders and everyday people, but can you sift fact from fiction? (Find the answers below the pictures).

1. An image of Joe Biden dancing in his office upon hearing the news of Donald Trump's indictment

2. An image of Elon Musk walking hand-in-hand with a woman on the street

3. A supposed picture of a happy couple beaming from ear to ear

4. A 1950s inspired image sees a husband kiss his wife on the cheek as she pulls a cake from the oven

5. An image of French president Emmanuel Macron volunteering to pick up rubbish

6. An image of Tom Cruise holding up a penny while looking into the camera

7. An image appears to show Russian president Vladimir Putin greeting Chinese president Xi Jingping

8. A supposed photo of a young blonde woman

9. An image of Putin praying while dressed in traditional monk clothing

10. A young couple are all smiles as they stare into the camera

11. An image of Prince Harry picking up a McDonald's

12. An image of Mike Tyson wearing a Winnie The Pooh onesie

13. An image of Boris Johnson sporting a black puffer jacket

14. A young girl stares into the camera

15. An image of Lady Gaga in Joker-inspired make-up

16. A young woman bakes in her kitchen on a sunny afternoon

17. An image of Kate Middleton's side profile in an apparent photo shoot

18. Two male friends raise a toast at a house party
Vikings arrived in the Americas 500 years before Christopher Columbus - the explorer often credited with the country's discovery in 1492, a study has found.

Archaeologists from the University of Iceland analysed wood from five Norse sites in western Greenland that were occupied between the years 1000 and 1400.

They were able to determine the tree species that many of the samples originated from, which revealed that some had been imported from the Americas and Europe.

In particular, hemlock and Jack pine were not grown in northern Europe during the second millennium, so wood from these trees must have been sailed across the Atlantic.

This supports some 'sagas' - stories passed down through Viking societies - which state that explorers imported timber from 'Vinland', a coastal area of North America thought to be along the Gulf of St Lawrence.

The results corroborate the sagas which claim that explorers, like Leif Erikson, who is thought to have been the first European to set foot on the continent, brought timber back from Vinland in the US. Pictured: Leif Erikson Discovers America by Hans Dahl (18491937)

Archaeologists from the University of Iceland analysed wood from five Norse sites in western Greenland, that were occupied between the years 1000 and 1400. Pictured: Imported oak planks and barrel staves

Jack pine grows naturally around the Mackenzie River, Nova Scotia and New England, while Hemlock grows near Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Ontario and Nova Scotia.

WHO WERE THE VIKINGS? The Viking age in European history was from about 700 to 1100 AD. During this period many Vikings left their homelands in Scandinavia and travelled by longboat to other countries, like Britain and Ireland. When the people of Britain first saw the Viking longboats they came down to the shore to welcome them. However, the Vikings fought the local people, stealing from churches and burning buildings to the ground. The people of Britain called the invaders 'Danes', but they came from Norway and Sweden as well as Denmark. The name 'Viking' comes from a language called 'Old Norse' and means 'a pirate raid'. The first Viking raid recorded in the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle was around 787 AD. It was the start of a fierce struggle between the Anglo-Saxons and the Vikings. Advertisement

The researchers wrote: 'These findings highlight the fact that Norse Greenlanders had the means, knowledge and appropriate vessels to cross the Davis Strait to the east coast of North America, at least up until the fourteenth century.

'As such, journeys were being made from Greenland to North America throughout the entirety of the period of Norse settlement in Greenland, and resources were being acquired by the Norse from North America for far longer than previously thought.'

Many historical records suggest that Vikings living in Greenland between 985 and 1450 relied upon imported materials, such as iron and wood.

They used these for large building projects, shipbuilding and producing artefacts - purposes for which local tree species were not adequate.

For the study, published in Antiquity, archaeologists wanted to find out the proportion of foreign wood used by Vikings, and where it came from.

They collected samples from wood assemblages in four medium-sized, elite farms and a bishop's manor.

These were known to have been occupied in the first half of the second millennium through radiocarbon dating of the wood and the types of artefacts that were left there.

The researchers examined the cellular structure of the wood using microscopes to identify the tree species they came from.

Their analysis revealed that 0.27 per cent of the samples came from imported species, either from North America or northern Europe.

Species that fell into the latter category included oak, beech and Scots pine, some of which may have been old ship timber or arrived as ready made artefacts.

European tree species from which wood was imported included oak, beech and Scots pine, some of which may have been old ship timber or arrived as ready made artefacts. Pictured: Oak and beech fragments

The analysis revealed that 0.27 per cent of the samples came from imported species, either from North America or northern Europe. Pictured: Proportion of wood from different tree species identified at each of the five sites and combined

The analysis also found that a quarter of the samples were either imported or arrived in Greenland as driftwood, with species including larch, spruce, Scots pine and fir.

Driftwood, as well as timber from local woodlands, was used as fuel and for other domestic purposes.

These results confirm that the Vikings had established numerous trading routes across the northwestern Atlantic Ocean.

They also corroborate the sagas which claim that explorers, like Leif Erikson, who is thought to have been the first European to set foot on the continent, brought timber back from Vinland.

These results confirm that the Vikings had established numerous trading routes across the northwestern Atlantic Ocean (pictured)

In 2021, a study of wooden artefacts from LAnse Aux Meadows in Newfoundland, Canada drew the same conclusion.

The area was first thought to be a Norse site, and therefore evidence that Vikings may well have got to the New World before any other Europeans, in 1960.

This was because the wood left there showed evidence of cutting and slicing by blades made of metal - a material not produced by the Indigenous population.

The researchers, from the University of Groningen, found that this wood dated back to the year 1021 - 471 years before Columbus would arrive.
A woman successfully used ChatGPT to encourage her landlord to fix a washer and dryer that had been out of order for over two years.

The washing machine of a New York City apartment was fixed soon after 28-year-old Svetlana sent a legally charged chatbot letter to her landlord.

Svetlana, who did not wish to reveal her last name, claimed the bot was 'super-smart' after quoting specific sections of New York rent law to back its case.

She said: 'That's the beauty of ChatGPT; the ability to collaborate, bounce ideas, put thoughts into a cohesive piece of writing.

'It's like a super-smart, objective, real-time sounding board.'

Svetlana, 28, successfully used ChatGPT to write her landlord a legally charged letter

Artificial intelligence bots have also been used in the UK to assist with other legal battles

Gatwick Airport motorist reduced hefty fine using ChatGPT - READ MORE A letter composed by ChatGPT for motorist Shaun Bosley, who was appealing against a fine at Gatwick Airport Advertisement

The New York resident first had qualms with her landlord after receiving a rent increase notice of 0.4 per cent, from $1,389 to $1,395 (1116 to 1121).

The notice came just days after she had filed for a rent decrease, with her washer and dryer out of order for more than two years.

Having written numerous complaints about these machines before, Svetlana asked the AI chatbot to act like a housing lawyer and draft an email opposing the rise.

This attempt was successful, with the landlord then fixing these appliances that same month.

'The rent increase alone was not my gripe,' Svetlana said.

'It was the audacity to increase the rent, seemingly in retaliation after I filed a complaint and request for a rent decrease on the basis of decreased building-wide services.'

ChatGPT took into account sections of the New York rent stabilisation code and posited that the rent increase was retaliatory, as she had recently filed a request for a decrease.

This was prompted by Svetlana's request for it to write a 'poignant, convincing, legalese-heavy long letter' which she shared in a TikTok explainer post.

She continued: 'My goal was to have the laundry machines repaired, and thankfully they were fixed that month after years of being out of order.

'It took a couple of attempts to get it perfect.

Pictured: The prompt put forward by Svetlana to challenge her landlord over the rent rise

Result: This letter was produced by ChatGPT, forming the basis of what was sent across

'I prompted ChatGPT to add more legalese.

'I never received an official response from my landlord, there was a sign posted in my building announcing that the laundry rooms were back in service.'

Svetlana's case is not the first time that ChatGPT has been used successfully in a legal battle.

Just last month, 22-year-old Millie Houlton from York used the bot to revoke a 60 parking fine she received despite having a permit.

Motorist, Shaun Bosley from Brighton, also managed to get a fine reduced thanks to ChatGPT.

He had driven through Gatwick Airport's drop-off area last November and received a 100 'final notice' from NCP several months later, despite no previous correspondence, it was alleged.

Mr Bosley previously said: 'In the end, I just typed, "write an appeal to a penalty charge notice for driving through Gatwick airport.

'I have received final notice, but never received first notice of the penalty", and straight away it came back with a great response.'

Millie Houlton, 22, from York, used the bot to write an email to the council, which then revoked the 60 fine for parking on a yellow line

Motorist, Shaun Bosley from Brighton, also managed to get a fine reduced thanks to ChatGPT (pictured: his chatbot letter in full)

As an executive assistant, Svetlana already uses artificial intelligence for work, but is now considering its use to resolve other legal battles.

She said: 'It's definitely reinforced my faith in the, what feels to be, limitless future of AI.

'We're living in super fun times and it's clear that we're only just scratching the surface of what's possible.

'I've thought about issuing a scary legal letter to my neighbors who frequently chain smoke indoors.

'Their smoke seeps into my apartment and it becomes overwhelming for me. Have decided against it for now.

'But I use ChatGPT everyday, for work and for fun, and even just seeking objective opinions on literally anything.'
A dead NASA spacecraft is set to fall from space and crash into the Earth on Wednesday  and there is a one in 2,500 chance it could kill someone.

The American space agency revealed that the 600-pound piece of tech - similar to a vending machine - will reenter the Earth's atmosphere at 9.30pm ET, with most of it burning up in the sky.

But some components will survive the descent and NASA warns 'the risk of harm coming to anyone is... one in 2,467.'

Where exactly the impact zone will be remains unclear, with NASA should share updates about the craft after it crashes back to Earth.

Reuven Ramaty High Energy Solar Spectroscopic Imager (RHESSI) was tasked with observing solar flares before it was decommissioned in 2018 after NASA failed to communicate with it.

This will be the second retired NASA satellite to crash into Earth this year. The previous was a 5,400-pound machine that came down in January.

The 600-pound Reuven Ramaty High Energy Solar Spectroscopic Imager observed solar flares when it launched in 2002. It was decommissioned in 2018 and is set to fall back to Earth on Wednesday

RHESSI, launched in 2002, to observe solar flares and coronal mass ejections from its low-Earth orbit, helping scientists understand how such powerful bursts of energy are created from our sun.

Jonathan McDowell, an astronomer and astrophysicist at the HarvardSmithsonian Center for Astrophysics, told DailyMail.com that the reentry window is now plus or minus 11 hours as of Tuesday, and predictions cover half a million miles.

This means experts are not sure yet where the debris will fall.

While McDowell is not too concerned about the harm caused by RHESSI, NASA's predictions show it has a higher chance of hitting someone on Earth than being hit by a car.

Data from the Centers for Disease Control shows that the odds of being struck by a car in the US is about 1 in 4,292.

RHESSI launched aboard an Orbital Sciences Corporation Pegasus XL rocket on February 5, aiming to image the high-energy electrons that carry a large part of the energy released in solar flares.

It achieved this with its sole instrument, an imaging spectrometer, which recorded X-rays and gamma rays from the Sun.

Before RHESSI, no gamma-ray or high-energy X-ray images of solar flares had been taken.

Data from RHESSI provided vital clues about solar flares and their associated coronal mass ejections.

The resting place of the remaining parts is not yet known, but NASA said 'the risk of harm coming to anyone on Earth is low'

These events release the energy equivalent of billions of megatons of TNT into the solar atmosphere within minutes and can have effects on Earth, including the disruption of electrical systems. Understanding them has proven challenging.

READ MORE: Moment one of Elon's new Starlink satellites falls from the sky and burns up The moment one of Elon Musk 's new Starlink internet satellites deorbits, falls toward Earth and burns up in the atmosphere has been captured by a skygazer in California. Advertisement

RHESSI recorded more than 100,000 X-ray events during its mission tenure, allowing scientists to study the energetic particles in solar flares.

The imager helped researchers determine the particles frequency, location, and movement, which allowed them to understand where the particles were being accelerated.

The craft was decommissioned in 2018 due to difficulties with communications.

McDowell said it is not uncommon for small craft to fall back to Earth, but NASA rarely announces such events.

The last time agency made the public aware was on January 6 when the retired Earth Radiation Budget Satellite (ERBS) reentered Earths atmosphere at 11:04 pm ET.

The Department of Defense confirmed that the 5,400-pound satellite reentered the atmosphere over the Bering Sea. NASA expected most of the satellite to burn up as it traveled through the atmosphere, but for some components to survive the reentry.

And NASA only shared another falling satellite in 2020 - the Orbiting Geophysics Observatory 1 spacecraft (OGO-1).

This satellite, launched in 1964, gathered data on Earth's magnetic environment and how our planet interacted with the sun and was decommissioned in 1971.

It returned home on August 29, 2020 over the South Pacific, approximately halfway between Tahiti and the Cook Islands.

The spacecraft broke up in the atmosphere and posed no threat to our planetor anyone on it.
The McQueen family will resort to desperate measures to solve their money problems on next week's Hollyoaks.

Faced with the prospect of losing their home, it's a race against time for Mercedes, Goldie and their loved ones as they try and find the cash they need in time.

But after coming up with yet another money-making scheme, the family once again find themselves in trouble with law, casting doubt on whether they'll earn the much-needed funds in time.

As they get closer and closer to their goal, the family's joy is short-lived when they're faced with some shocking news.

Will their money plans tear the tight-knit family apart?

SPOILER: The McQueen family will resort to desperate measures to solve their money problems on next week's Hollyoaks

The week begins with Goldie (Chelsee Healey) plotting to cash in on an influx of European tourists ahead of the Eurovision Song Contest in Liverpool, by renting out Mercedes' room to Swedish Sven.

However, she soon realises that might not hold all the answers to the cash flow problem like she hoped when she learns she had advertised the room per week not per night.

But Mercedes (Jennifer Metcalfe) has a trick up her sleeve to help them solve their money issues... and plans to set up an escape room in their home.

As the family open their new business venture, its success is short-lived when P.C Sam turns up and shuts it down.

Things then go from bad to worse, when Francis arrives to deliver the McQueens some bad news... the days disastrous activities has got back to the property company and as a result the rent has been increase.

The family have just days to pay up before eviction proceedings are started, making it a race against time for the family to drum up the funds they need in time.

While the clock ticks until their deadline, Sallyy comes across a new money-making idea when she sees an advert for at home telesales work.

Needing all the help they can get, she sets John-Paul, Goldie, and Mercedes into putting their best phone voices into action...

Scary! Faced with the prospect of losing their home, it's a race against time for Mercedes, Goldie and their loved ones as they try and find the cash they need in time

But when the electricity is cut off, the McQueens are left in the dark on how theyll raise the money needed with only 24 hours left to save their home.

Time is of the essence as everyone scrambles to pull together any money they can over at the McQueens.

The familys efforts at clubbing together to bring in the cash is nearly a success but, celebrations are halted when the police come to investigate stolen booze that was confiscated from the house

Sally is concerned at what sort of dodgy dealing Mercedes has got herself into.... but when Bronzers bad tummy turns out to be as a result of him eating a 50 note, the McQueens have managed to get together the money needed to save the house.

But the family's happiness is short lived when they get some unexpected news... what will it be?

Hollyoaks airs Mondays to Fridays at 6:30pm on Channel 4, and first look episodes at 7pm on E4.
Celebrity chef Shannon Bennett has been spotted in public for the first time since his ex-partner and Neighbours star Madeleine West was hit with a restraining order on behalf of his father.

After lying low during the high-profile court battle last month, Bennett, 47, has returned to his multi-million dollar beachfront property in Byron Bay.

The father-of-six appeared to be trying to exercise away the stress of family rift as he went for a jog through the popular tourist town.

Wearing a blue cap, shirt and shorts, the MasterChef star braved the rain as he pounded the pavement.

Shannon Bennett was spotted going for a run through the rain in Byron Bay on Monday morning

The MasterChef star listened to music with his phone strapped to his arm

The father-of-six appeared unfazed by the wet weather as he ran through local streets

The sighting comes just weeks after West, 42, was slapped with an apprehended violence order to protect her former father-in-law Benny Clifton Bennett, 75.

The actress and former model allegedly pushed Mr Bennett during a dispute at her ex-husband's home last year.

At the time of the court case, Bennett had builders carrying out extensive renovations at the property, and it was unclear whether he remained in the region.

West is banned from approaching the residence when Mr Bennett is visiting from Melbourne.

Shannon Bennett was with West for 13 years before they split in 2018. He is the father of her six children.

In a bid to fight the AVO, West fronted Byron Bay Local Court for two days last month.

At times she shed tears as she gave evidence before Magistrate Karen Stafford.

Prosecutors allege West pushed Mr Bennett and forced her way into her ex-husband's home on May 4 last year before dragging away an 11-year-old girl.

Madeleine West leaves Byron Bay Court on March 21 after cross-examination in which she was accused of pushing her ex-father-in-law Benny Bennett, 74, at his celebrity chef son, Shannon Bennett's, Byron Bay house

Benny Clifton Bennett (above) is seen appearing at Byron Bay. The court heard he has 'fears' about Madeleine West

They further allege the incident left Mr Bennett 'in fear' of his ex-daughter-in-law.

But the actress vehemently denied the claims, telling a police prosecutor she 'didn't lay a hand' on Mr Bennett.

The court was shown CCTV videos of West and Mr Bennett at her ex-partner's home while the MasterChef star was in the US.

After reviewing the evidence tendered, Magistrate Stafford ruled the two-year domestic violence order against West be upheld.

However, West has appealed the decision with the matter to return to the District Court in Coffs Harbour on May 3.

The hearing was held the day after West was photographed taking a swim at Bangalow, in the Byron Bay hinterland, and covering herself in 'healing' mud.

Madeleine West and Shannon Bennett are pictured together during their 13-year relationship

Pictured: Madeleine (left) with Shannon Bennett (centre back), his father Benny (right), mother Bridie, front, second left, and Shannon's brother

She later posted a photo of herself with a muddy decolletage on social media with the caption 'Is there anything more healing than a little ol' fashioned silliness? #mud'.

In days prior to the hearing, West was spotted ferrying children around the Byron Bay Shire from her home in Suffolk Park.

The AVO was taken out just days after Bennett revealed the estranged couple's six children lived with him in Byron Bay.

The celebrity chef revealed in May last year that the separation process between he and West had 'turned love toxic'.

However in 2020, West left Melbourne and moved to Byron Bay to be near her children.

The former soap star bought her own mansion in Suffolk Park, paying $4.6million for a four-bedroom house with a heated pool, open plan-living, spacious sun-filled living areas and a stunning architectural design.

Hours before the court hearing, West took a refreshing swim at a remote quarry in Bangalow, in the Byron Bay hinterland

The actress proceeded to cover herself with a layer of soothing mud

Since splitting with Bennett, West has been seen with northern NSW environmentalist, Maximo Bottaro.

More recently, the actress and podcaster revealed she was a child sexual abuse victim.

Speaking publicly for the first time about her battle with anorexia, she said the trauma of being abused caused her to become obsessed with looking 'perfect' - a task that was both 'punishing' and never-ending.

'For every sexually abused person, what has happened to them will manifest in their life in some self-destructive behaviour,' she said earlier this year.

Last year, Bennett said West saw their children fortnightly, while they spend the remainder of the time with him.

'The kids live with me full time and they visit their mother every fortnight for a few days,' he revealed.

He added that while the former Neighbours star is not the children's primary caretaker, the pair work together to give them as much normality as possible.

'At the end of the day it's about the children. I feel on this that my children's lives are private and I'm the protector of that,' he said.

'I'll do anything I can to ensure they get to grow as normally as possible with no distractions.

'I think I'm doing a good job of that, it's good she's doing that too'.
Australia's most prolific porn star Angela White has revealed the weirdest act she has ever been asked to perform by her subscribers on OnlyFans.

The adult entertainer, 37, said 'alien impregnation' tops the list of her most bizarre requests - but she hasn't been able to perform the explicit act on camera because the website has banned it.

'Alien impregnation' refers to an obscure sexual fetish that involves the insertion of small egg-shaped toys.

Angela, who has filmed more than 900 hardcore scenes and is known as the 'Meryl Streep of porn' because of her award-winning performances, said some of her fans find the idea of her being 'impregnated by an alien' arousing.

'I don't think anything's weird when it comes to sexuality. No kink-shaming, nothing. I've heard it all. But obviously I do get some interesting requests,' she explained on the Only Stans podcast with Glenny Balls.

Australia's most prolific porn star Angela White, 37, has revealed 'alien impregnation' is the weirdest act she has ever been asked to perform by her subscribers on OnlyFans

Unfortunately for extraterrestrial sex enthusiasts, Angela has not been able to fulfil this fantasy because OnlyFans has a strict health and safety policy that prohibits creators from 'putting foreign objects inside' themselves.

'You can't even put a cucumber inside you,' she said.

'I had a really popular solo video where I f**k myself with a cucumber. OnlyFans banned it because it's a foreign object [and] not allowed.'

It comes after Angela was forced to throw cold water over rumours she 'almost died' while filming an intense sex scene with fellow porn star Keiran Lee.

The adult entertainer, 37, said 'alien impregnation' tops the list of her most bizarre requests - but she hasn't been able to perform the explicit act because it is banned on OnlyFans

Unfortunately for extraterrestrial sex enthusiasts, OnlyFans has a strict health and safety policy that prohibits creators from 'putting foreign objects inside' themselves

Keiran, 39, recently made headlines when he claimed Angela was rushed to hospital with a burst appendix after they filmed an hour-long sex scene in 2013.

The three-time winner of the AVN Award for Female Performer of the Year has since said 'there is no medical evidence' to suggest Keiran's manhood was to blame.

Speaking to the Only Stans podcast, Angela said reports of the incident had been 'blown way out of proportion'.

It comes after Angela was forced to throw cold water over rumours she 'almost died' while filming a sex scene with fellow porn star Keiran Lee. (Keiran is pictured with wife Kirsten Price)

'My appendix actually did not burst, but it is true I had appendicitis and did have to have emergency surgery to have it removed,' she clarified.

Appendicitis refers to a condition where the appendix is inflamed, with symptoms including severe abdominal pain, fever, chills and weakness.

Prolonged appendicitis can lead to the appendix rupturing, also known as a 'burst appendix'.

While Keiran was under the impression his large manhood was the cause of her injury, Angela insisted her condition was 'likely a pure coincidence'.
A lawyer for a member of rapper Young Thug's alleged Young Slime Life (YSL) gang used the phrase 'cap' - a slang word that indicates dishonesty - during court proceedings in the rap artist's ongoing RICO case Monday.

Justin Hill, who is representing Damone 'Bali' Blalock in the criminal proceedings, was responding to a statement from the presiding judge in the case, which is being held in Fulton County Superior Court in Atlanta.

In the exchange, Hill told Chief Judge Ural Glanville, 'So I will start by saying that this assertion that I did not mention before pre argument,' to which the judge interjected, 'Don't worry about that, OK - because I'd have to do it anyway.'

Hill responded, 'OK, I was just saying that it's not true - it's cap, to be honest.

Hill is counsel for YSL member Blalock, chat with Atlanta-based true crime reporter George Chidi outside of the courtroom, where he explained the circumstances behind his statement.

The latest: Justin Hill, a lawyer for a member of rapper Young Thug's alleged Young Slime Life (YSL) gang, used the phrase 'cap' - a slang word that indicates dishonesty - during court proceedings in the rap artist's ongoing RICO case Monday

Hill said that while 'there is no statutory definition' for the phrase cap, the meaning of the phrase is 'to lie, to say something that's not true, misrepresent, and that's essentially what happened.'

He continued: 'The state misrepresented something that I said - or didn't say - and I just had to let everyone know that it wasn't true, it was cap.'

Young Thug, whose real name is Jeffery Lamar Williams, was arrested last May in connection with gang-related charges in Buckhead, Georgia.

Authorities took the Atlanta-born rapper and more than 25 associates into custody in the sweep.

The Grammy-winning performer faces a number of charges in the case, including attempted murder, participation in a criminal gang, and conspiracy to violate the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO).

The trial has been the stage for a number of unusual exchanges, including an incident where a codefendant attempted to pass Young Thug drugs in the court, TMZ reported.

In an incident on Monday, according to the outlet, the judge in the case chastised one of the other defense attorneys after he didn't live up to a promise to purchase lunch for other lawyers as he was ordered by the court last month.

In the exchange, Hill was telling the court that prosecutors misrepresented remarks he made

Hill said that while 'there is no statutory definition' for the phrase cap, the meaning of the phrase is 'to lie, to say something that's not true, misrepresent, and that's essentially what happened'
David 'Kochie' Koch has been targeted by a cruel death hoax with criminals using his image and fake news of his passing to scam people out of thousands of dollars.

The Sunrise host, 67, was bombarded with 'tributes' over the weekend when a Twitter post announcing his death went viral, Crikey reports.

Originating from a hacked account, the tweet included a link redirecting users to a cryptocurrency scam featuring fraudulent celebrity endorsements purporting to be from the likes of Koch, billionaire philanthropist Bill Gates and others.

'Although saying goodbye is never easy, we take comfort in knowing that Kochie lived a full and meaningful life, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, warmth and compassion,' the scam tweet read.

The message was accompanied by a black and white photo of Koch looking distraught with his hands over his face.

Sunrise host David 'Kochie' Koch has been targeted by a cruel death hoax with criminals using his image and fake news of his passing to scam people out of thousands of dollars

Koch retweeted the post and assured his followers that despite taking a week off work, he was 'alive and well'.

'Just for clarity, I'm alive and well and enjoying AFL's Gather Round in Adelaide with all my family. This stuff is really giving me the s**ts,' he said.

The owner of the Twitter account, Kimberly Ramirez, told Crikey she 'had no idea' her hacked account was spreading a crypto scam under the guise of a tribute to Koch.

The Channel Seven presenter was bombarded with 'tributes' over the weekend when a Twitter post announcing his death went viral, Crikey reports

'I had no idea this was happening. I had deleted the app off my phone for a while and forgot about it,' the New York-based advertising worker said.

She went on to say she had received an email from Twitter alerting her to a login attempt on her account. The email stated the hacker could have accessed her account from Lake Forest, Illinois.

After they successfully hacked into her account, they changed the password and began spamming her profile with links to the cryptocurrency scam.

'This a**hole left me a debt of over $1,000 on ads,' Ms Ramirez said.

Originating from a hacked account, the tweet included a link redirecting users to a crypto scam featuring fraudulent celebrity endorsements purporting to be from the likes of Koch

Koch's death hoax was viewed 140,000 times and more than 6,000 Twitter users clicked on the advertisement, which led them to a website pushing Immediate Edge.

The 'get-rich-quick' scam boasts fake endorsements from celebrities such as Jeremy Clarkson, Piers Morgan and Justin Trudeau.

People who have fallen victim to the scam claim they signed up to the service expecting 'great returns' from cryptocurrency investments but were locked out of their accounts after depositing hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

Koch retweeted the post and assured his followers that despite taking a week off work, he was 'alive and well'
Jennifer Garner enjoyed a stroll in Santa Monica with her 11-year-old son Samuel as she celebrated her 51st birthday on Monday.

The Alias alum shares Samuel and daughters Violet, 17, and Seraphina, 14, with her ex-husband Ben Affleck, 50.

The Elektra actress was dressed very casually in a pair of well-worn in jeans, a charcoal gray t-shirt she knotted in the front with a black jacket.

She talked on the phone as her son, wearing blue pants, a green polo shirt and bright pink high-top trainers walked by her side.

It's a big week for Jennifer Garner. Not only is she celebrating her birthday but her latest series The Last Thing He Told Me, which she not only stars in but also produces alongside Reese Witherspoon, dropped its first two episodes on AppleTV+ over the weekend.

Birthday girl: Happy 51st birthday to Jennifer Garner. The busy actress took time on her special day to take a stroll with her son Samuel, 11, in Santa Monica on Monday

Jen also stopped by Drew Barrymore's talk show on her birthday to promote her latest project.

The Never Been Kissed star, 48, greeted the birthday girl with a multi-colored balloons covering the set.

During the interview, the Yes Day actress told Drew that it was her portrayal of Dylan Sanders in Charlie's Angels that inspired her performance as Sydney Bristow on Alias.

'You had shown me a new way. You had shown me something that I was like, "Wait that's possible? Get me in there, I want to do that." So fun,' she said of the role she played from 2001 to 2005.

Garner then spoke about how hard the schedule of the action drama series was.

She recalled: 'Twenty-two episodes a year of every single lunch break I had somebody waiting for me to teach me a fight, teach me a language, to have a fitting...it was just so taxing, and it was also just heaven to do.'

Barrymore then changed the subject of conversation to the feature 13 Going on 30 and stated: 'This movie means so much to me and my daughters, it meant so much to me when it came out and it means so much to us now.'

Garner then expressed that she previously had conversations with past castmates regarding the enduring quality of the movie.

Busy day: The Elektra actress was dressed very casually in a pair of well-worn in jeans, a charcoal gray t-shirt she knotted in the front with a black jacket

'I just knew that, we've talked about...how it kind of grows, because I think the kids who were thirteen when it came out are now thirty and god bless them,' she said.

Although Barrymore surprised her guest with balloons and flowers for her birthday, she informed her that she had another trick up her sleeve.

The 50 First Dates actress said: 'This surprise is very meaningful and it comes from your hometown of Charleston, West Virginia. From here on out April 17th will be known as Jennifer Garner Day in Charleston.'

Charleston's mayor, Amy Goodwin, then made a special appearance to elaborate on the actress' impact on her hometown, and the performer was also given the key to her hometown.

Out for a stroll: The Alias alum shares Samuel and daughters Violet, 17, and Seraphina, 14, with her ex-husband Ben Affleck, 50

Barrymore also donated $25,000 to Save The Children during the episode in honor of Jen's birthday.

And the new 51-year-old wowed on the red carpet at the premiere of her latest project last week in Los Angeles, and she brought someone special with her to share the big night.

Jennifer's longtime beau, John Miller, quietly arrived at the theater to support her.

The couple have been linked together since 2018, but keep their relationship low key. They are rarely seen in public together.
Hugh Jackman recently announced he will reprise his iconic role of superhero Wolverine.

And on Monday, the Hollywood superstar shared a video of his grueling preparatory exercise routine.

The X-Men star, 54, posted the footage to Instagram which captured him vigorously running on a treadmill while a personal trainer cheered him on.

The Sydney native looked every inch the action star in the jaw-dropping video which showed him training hard to bulk up for his upcoming role in Deadpool 3.

'Welcome to a new installment of becoming Wolverine again,' he wrote next to the footage.

Hugh Jackman (pictured) recently announced he will reprise his iconic role of superhero Wolverine and on Monday he shared a video of his grueling exercise routine

It didn't take long for many of his fans to express their excitement at Hugh returning to the role that first made him a Hollywood star two decades ago.

'You're Wolverine. That's it. There is no "becoming again",' one fan joked while Hugh's Reminiscence co-star Daniel Wu wrote 'let's go'.

Back in January, Jackman revealed it will take him six months of hardcore training to physically prepare for his return as Wolverine.

The esteemed actor  who recently escalated his 'feud' with frenemy Ryan Reynolds  went on Who's Taking to Chris Wallace and opened up about the amount of time and dedication it takes to become the iconic mutant.

The X-Men star, 54, posted the footage to Instagram which captures him vigourously running on a treadmill while a personal trainer cheers him on

The Sydney native looks every inch the action star in the jaw-dropping video which shows him training hard to bulk up for his role in Deadpool 3

Jackman is set to reprise his most famous role for Reynold's Deadpool 3, donning the claws for the first time since 2017's Logan.

'I'm not doing any other work,' Hugh declared to Chris Wallace, according to Complex. 'I'm going to be with my family and train. That's going to be my job for six months.'

Hugh initially appeared as Wolverine in the first X-Men movie in 2000 and the character's enormous popularity saw Hugh star in several sequels and spin offs.

Deadpool 3 isn't slated for release until November 2024, but Ryan and Hugh have already teased the plot in a funny follow-up video, driving fans wild in the process.
Rose Byrne turned heads on Monday as she attended a special screening of Ray Romano's new comedy-drama Somewhere in Queens.

The Australian actress, 43, cast an elegant silhouette as she donned a conservatively cut floral gown for the event at the Metrograph cinema in New York City.

With a hemline that brushed her ankles, the frock featured a high square neckline and puffy sleeves.

The Bridesmaids star elevated her look with chunky black heels and layered gold necklaces, as well as a pair of large gold medallion earrings.

Her brunette locks were pulled back in a low bun with a side parting, and she accentuated her natural beauty by wearing minimal makeup.

Rose Byrne turned heads on Monday as she attended a special screening of Ray Romano's new comedy-drama Somewhere in Queens

Rose worked her best angles in front of the media wall as she posed alongside Somewhere in Queens actor Dierdre Friel.

Dierdre, 42, rocked a bright pink pantsuit with a low-cut neckline.

She was all smiles as she wrapped an arm around her famous friend, accessorising only with a simple colourful necklace.

The Australian actress, 43, cast an elegant silhouette as she donned a conservatively cut floral gown for the event at the Metrograph cinema in New York City

With a hemline that brushed her ankles, the frock featured a high square neckline and puffy sleeves

The Bridesmaids star elevated her look with chunky black heels and layered gold necklaces, as well as a pair of large gold medallion earrings

Rose's appearance at the screening comes after she wrapped filming on the third season of her dark sitcom Physical.

Physical, which debuted on Apple TV+ in 2021, stars Rose as a housewife called Sheila who throws herself into the aerobics craze of the 1980s.

Sheila becomes an exercise instructor while grappling with her own anger and insecurities, including body image issues that snowball into bulimia.

She was spotted on set in February cuddling up to her long-time partner Bobby Cannavale, with whom she shares two children, Rocco, seven, and Rafa, five

Rose worked her best angles in front of the media wall as she posed alongside Somewhere in Queens actor Dierdre Friel (right)
Andrew Lloyd Webber admitted that he was 'sad' to see The Phantom Of The Opera end its run on Broadway after entertaining theatergoers for 35 years.

The 75-year-old English composer during an appearance on Monday on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon was asked about being in the Majestic Theatre on Sunday for the final performance of the musical on Broadway.

'Well, it was strange really, because, you know, one of the funny things that's happened with Phantom is that over the last few years... well, few months really, a young audience found it. And it's, I don't know, it was sad last night because I just felt it could run on. But there you go,' Webber told Fallon, 48.

The musical theater impresario said it was 'very unusual' for everything to come together for a musical.

'Like the production, the whole thing meshes, it's just one of those moments. I mean, it happened with The Lion King, it's happened with Hamilton, it's happened with me with Phantom. It doesn't happen very often,' Webber said.

Famous composer: Andrew Lloyd Webber admitted on a talk show Monday that he was 'sad' to see The Phantom Of The Opera end its run on Broadway after 35 years

Broadway show: The Phantom Of The Opera cast is shown on Sunday at the curtain call following the final Broadway performance at the Majestic Theatre in New York City

Fallon shared some statistics about the play, including that it holds the record for the longest-running show in Broadway history with 13,981 performances.

He also noted that The Phantom of the Opera has been the largest generator of income and jobs in Broadway and US theatrical history.

Fallon then asked Webber about his long-running Broadway show Cats and he hilariously took the opportunity to ridicule the 2019 box-office bomb Cats based on his 1981 stage musical.

'How does one come up with an idea like Cats and are you a cat person?,' Fallon said.

'Well, I am a cat person. Well, I was a total cat person until I saw the Cats movie,' Webber quipped.

Fallon and the studio audience burst into laughter as he poked fun of the box-office bomb that starred English comedian James Corden, 44.

'But what happened in the Cats movie was during the course of it being, as it were, shot, which I hoped the whole movie would have been...,' Webber added to more laughter. 'I bought this little puppy. And he's called Mojito and he's a little Havanese dog. He comes from Cuba.'

Webber then shared that he tried to take Mojito on a plane with him as his 'little therapy companion dog'.

Cats play: Fallon asked Webber about his long-running Broadway show Cats and he hilariously took the opportunity to ridicule the 2019 box-office bomb Cats based on his 1981 musical

'And they said, "You need a a doctor's letter. And so, I just said, "I saw the Cats movie and bought a puppy. And they said, "No doctor's letter required'',' Webber shared.

Webber also promoted his new Broadway play Bad Cinderella that opened in March after a month of previews.

He said he liked the idea of an 'alternative Cinderella' and thought it would be a fun story.

'I don't know, I just let my hair down a bit,' Webber said.

A grand piano was later wheeled out and Webber treated Fallon and his audience to songs from Phantom Of The Opera, Jesus Christ Superstar and Cats.

Bad Cinderella is currently playing at the Imperial Theatre on Broadway with music by Webber, lyrics by David Zippel and a book by Emerald Fennell.
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Mad Men alum Kiernan Shipka resembled a fabulous disco doll while attending an advanced screening of her new HBO series White House Plumbers at the 92nd Street Y located in Manhattan's Upper East Side on Monday.

The Chicago-born 23-year-old slipped her petite 5ft2in frame in a strapless sequin mini-dress, in hues of green and copper, with a matching purse and gold stilettos selected by stylist Jordan Johnson Chung.

Hairstylist Clayton Hawkins coiffed Kiernan's seventies-style big blonde barrel curls.

Make-up artist Lauren Gott brought out Shipka's bushy brows and applied a copper shade on her eyelids and pink lipstick on her glossy pout.

Earlier, the two-time SAG Award winner - who was last rumored to be dating seven-time Grammy winner John Mayer - got glam with her squad at The Bowery Hotel in Manhattan's Lower East Side.

All that glitters! Mad Men alum Kiernan Shipka resembled a fabulous disco doll while attending an advanced screening of her new HBO series White House Plumbers at the 92nd Street Y located in Manhattan's Upper East Side on Monday

Ombre: The Chicago-born 23-year-old slipped her petite 5ft2in frame in a strapless sequin mini-dress, in hues of green and copper, with a matching purse and gold stilettos selected by stylist Jordan Johnson Chung

'I really felt like from a young age, I was taught that style could tell a story and that it could be way more than just pretty clothes,' Kiernan told CNN on March 24.

'As I've gotten older now, I feel like I've kind of found my personal style, or at least this current version of it. And that feels really good and nice. And now I love putting things together, because I feel like I know what I like and it's always more fun when you know what you like.'

Shipka portrays Kevan Hunt, the fictional 'golden child' of E. Howard Hunt, in Alex Gregory and Peter Huyck's five-episode limited series, which premieres May 1 on HBO.

'I don't really know much else because I started so young,' the Wildflower actress said of being a former child star.

'The older I get, the more excited I get about what I do. Like, "Is this the thing that I am gonna do for the rest of my life?" And I definitely asked myself that a few times and every time the answer is yes, but it's getting to be like a bigger, more emboldened yes.'

The small-screen adaptation of Egil 'Bud' Krogh's 2007 novel Integrity stars Justin Theroux and Woody Harrelson as President Richard Nixon's Watergate conspirators G. Gordon Liddy and E. Howard Hunt, who wound up serving less than five years in prison for conspiracy, burglary, and illegal wiretapping.

The 51-year-old Emmy-winning producer cracked a a rare red carpet smile and excitedly embraced the 61-year-old Oscar nominee upon their Big Apple reunion.

Justin and Woody (born Woodrow) aren't just stars of White House Plumbers as they also served executive producing duties on the set.

Wavy: Hairstylist Clayton Hawkins coiffed Kiernan's seventies-style big blonde barrel curls

Ready for her close-up! Make-up artist Lauren Gott brought out Shipka's bushy brows and applied a copper shade on her eyelids and pink lipstick on her glossy pout

On her way! Earlier, the two-time SAG Award winner - who was last rumored to be dating seven-time Grammy winner John Mayer - got glam with her squad at The Bowery Hotel in Manhattan's Lower East Side

Kiernan told CNN on March 24: 'I really felt like from a young age, I was taught that style could tell a story and that it could be way more than just pretty clothes. As I've gotten older now, I feel like I've kind of found my personal style, or at least this current version of it'

Shipka continued: 'And that feels really good and nice. And now I love putting things together, because I feel like I know what I like and it's always more fun when you know what you like'

'What about the best interest of your family?' The Wildflower actress portrays Kevan Hunt, the fictional 'golden child' of E. Howard Hunt, in Alex Gregory and Peter Huyck's five-episode limited series, which premieres May 1 on HBO

Radical right: The small-screen adaptation of Egil 'Bud' Krogh's 2007 novel Integrity stars Justin Theroux (L) and Woody Harrelson (R) as President Richard Nixon's Watergate conspirators G. Gordon Liddy and E. Howard Hunt, who wound up serving less than five years in prison for conspiracy, burglary, and illegal wiretapping

Hey buddy! The 51-year-old Emmy-winning producer (L) cracked a a rare red carpet smile and excitedly embraced the 61-year-old Oscar nominee (R) upon their Big Apple reunion

Boss men: Justin and Woody (born Woodrow) aren't just stars of White House Plumbers as they also served executive producing duties on the set

Black and white: Theroux opted for a classic black suit and necktie over a white button-up shirt and dress boots as Harrelson looked more casual in a tree-print top featuring a Nehru collar with white slacks and blue sneakers

Theroux opted for a classic black suit and necktie over a white button-up shirt and dress boots as Harrelson looked more casual in a tree-print top featuring a Nehru collar with white slacks and blue sneakers.

Five-time Emmy nominee Lena Headey - who plays Dorothy Hunt - bared a bit of her waistline in a white cut-out long-sleeve dress and Doc Marten-style boots.

The 49-year-old Bermuda-born Brit was joined by her second husband, Ozark alum Marc Menchaca, whom she wed six months ago.

SAG Award nominee Judy Greer - who plays Fran Liddy - opted for a black silky pantsuit with a white top and clutch selected by stylist Karla Welch.

Oscar nominee Kathleen Turner - who plays Dita Beard - made a rare red carpet appearance wearing a navy-blue blouse with matching slacks and sneakers.

Golden Globe nominee Domhnall Gleeson - who plays John Dean - sported quite a burly beard with his black jacket, matching shirt, brown pants, and matching boots.

Bonding alum Zoe Levin - who plays Lisa Hunt - flashed her 'coin slot' in a black sparkly gown, featuring a plunging open back, and strappy stilettos selected by stylist Chris Horan.

Kiernan wasn't the only cast member from Mad Men in attendance as her co-star Rich Sommer - who plays Egil Krogh - turned up in a navy-blue knit sweater and rust-colored pants.

Ready for Coachella! Five-time Emmy nominee Lena Headey - who plays Dorothy Hunt - bared a bit of her waistline in a white cut-out long-sleeve dress and Doc Marten-style boots

Date night! The 49-year-old Bermuda-born Brit was joined by her second husband, Ozark alum Marc Menchaca (R), whom she wed six months ago

13 Going on 30 alum: SAG Award nominee Judy Greer - who plays Fran Liddy - opted for a black silky pantsuit with a white top and clutch selected by stylist Karla Welch

Well, hello! Oscar nominee Kathleen Turner - who plays Dita Beard - made a rare red carpet appearance wearing a navy-blue blouse with matching slacks and sneakers

Irishman: Golden Globe nominee Domhnall Gleeson - who plays John Dean - sported quite a burly beard with his black jacket, matching shirt, brown pants, and matching boots

The new cleavage? Bonding alum Zoe Levin - who plays Lisa Hunt - flashed her 'coin slot' in a black sparkly gown, featuring a plunging open back, and strappy stilettos selected by stylist Chris Horan

Harry Crane! Kiernan wasn't the only cast member from Mad Men in attendance as her co-star Rich Sommer - who plays Egil Krogh - turned up in a navy-blue knit sweater and rust-colored pants

History of the World: Part II star Ike Barinholtz - who plays Jeb Magruder - donned a grey suit over a lavender button-up and black Gucci loafers.

SAG Award nominee David Krumholtz - who plays William O. Bittman - opted for an all-black suit for the festivities.

Liam James and Tre Ryder - who play brothers Saint John Hunt and David Hunt - also ditched the necktie in grey and blue suits.

SAG Award winner John Carroll Lynch - who plays John N. Mitchell - wore a navy-blue suit over a light-blue button-up and black square-toed shoes.

Also suited and booted for the premiere were Nelson Ascencio, Alexis Valdes, and Tony Plana - who take on the roles of Virgilio, Felipe, and Musculito respectively.

And it wasn't just cast members as co-creators Alex Gregory and Peter Huyck, producer-director David Mandel, and HBO SVP of programming Kathleen McCaffrey were also in attendance for the screening and Q&A.

Five-time SAG Award nominee James Marsden - who currently stars in Amazon Freevee's docu-comedy Jury Duty - looked handsome as ever in a black suit with matching loafers, blue socks, and a grey crew-neck top selected by stylist Ilaria Urbinati.

Salt-and-pepper beard: History of the World: Part II star Ike Barinholtz - who plays Jeb Magruder - donned a grey suit over a lavender button-up and black Gucci loafers

Slums of Beverly Hills alum: SAG Award nominee David Krumholtz - who plays William O. Bittman - opted for an all-black suit for the festivities

Siblings onscreen! Liam James (L) and Tre Ryder (R) - who play brothers Saint John Hunt and David Hunt - also ditched the necktie in grey and blue suits

Fargo alum: SAG Award winner John Carroll Lynch - who plays John N. Mitchell - wore a navy-blue suit over a light-blue button-up and black square-toed shoes

Gents: Also suited and booted for the premiere were Nelson Ascencio, Alexis Valdes, and Tony Plana - who take on the roles of Virgilio, Felipe, and Musculito respectively

Cast and crew: And it wasn't just cast members as co-creators Alex Gregory (L) and Peter Huyck (2-L), producer-director David Mandel (2-R), and HBO SVP of programming Kathleen McCaffrey (R) were also in attendance for the screening and Q&A
The 34-year-old daughter of Bruce Willis and Demi Moore shared on Tuesday that she has welcomed her first child, a daughter named Louetta Isley Thomas Willis, at her Los Angeles home. The father is her partner Derek Richard Thomas. 'Pure Magic,' wrote the singer and actress - who showed off her baby bump earlier this week in new ads - as she shared a first photo of her little bundle of joy with her eyes closed on Instagram. They announced that their baby girl was born on April 18.
Radio presenter Jackie 'O' Henderson has revealed she was rejected by Raya - the exclusive dating app popular with the rich and famous.

The 48-year-old's efforts to jump back into the dating scene were thwarted when she applied to join the app, but her request was 'ignored'.

She explained her predicament on The Kyle and Jackie O Show on Tuesday.

Jackie, a single mother of one, said she was at a loss as to why she wasn't allowed on the app, which has strict requirements for who is allowed to use it.

'I can't get on that thing! They won't let me. I don't know. They just ignore me,' she said.

Radio presenter Jackie 'O' Henderson (left, with co-host Kyle Sandilands) has revealed she was rejected by Raya - the exclusive dating app popular with the rich and famous

Her co-host Kyle Sandilands was baffled that someone like Jackie - whom he described as a 'very successful media broadcaster, multimillionaire, beautiful, blonde, blue-eyed white woman' - had been knocked back by Raya.

Several high-profile Australians have used Raya in the past, including KIIS FM presenter Brittany Hockley, Big Brother star Tully Smyth and DJ Flume.

A Kyle and Jackie O producer who uses the app said successful applicants need a 'sexy' Instagram account, which Jackie unfortunately doesn't have.

With a waiting list of 100,000 and stricter vetting procedures than any private members' club, Raya is the most exclusive match-making service ever devised, and the most private, too

Hollywood celebrities rumoured to have used Raya include Paul Mescal, Sharon Stone, Channing Tatum, Harry Styles, Lizzo and Cara Delevingne.

Ben Affleck was also on the app before he married Jennifer Lopez.

With a waiting list of 100,000 and stricter vetting procedures than any private members' club, Raya is the most exclusive match-making service ever devised, and theoretically the most private, too.

Jackie, a single mother of one, said she was at a loss as to why she wasn't allowed on the app, which has strict requirements for who is allowed to use it

Jackie separated from her second husband, Lee Henderson, in 2018 after 15 years of marriage.

She has not publicly dated anyone since the split, but Lee has moved on with jujitsu instructor Gabriella Motta.

The former couple share custody of their 12-year-old daughter Kitty.

Before meeting Lee, Jackie was married to English radio presenter 'Ugly Phil' O'Neil for three years until their split in 1999.
Studio 10 presenter Narelda Jacobs is so obsessed with her new girlfriend Karina Natt that they have started dressing alike.

The Indigenous journalist, 47, posted a photo on Instagram on Monday of herself and Greens staffer Natt posing in an elevator.

Looking every inch the power couple, both women opted for jeans, boots and blouses, which Jacobs said reflected their 'urge to merge'.

According to Urban Dictionary, 'urge to merge' is lesbian slang for when a couple feels the desire to 'become the same person'.

'They start wearing the same outfits, doing everything together, especially becoming the same person at the horror and disgust of their friends,' the term's entry reads.

Studio 10 presenter Narelda Jacobs (right) is so obsessed with her new girlfriend Karina Natt (left) they have started dressing alike - a lesbian phenomenon known as the 'urge to merge'

Natt is the chief of staff for South Australian Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young.

Jacobs was previously in a long-term relationship with filmmaker Stevie Cruz-Martin until just a few months ago.

She debuted her new romance in an Instagram post on last month, sharing a photo of the two women kissing during Sydney World Pride celebrations.

In the caption, Jacobs revealed the pair went on their first date in February, meaning they have been an item for just four weeks.

'Can't ignore the numbers. First date 23/02/23. One month later 23/03/23,' she wrote.

Narelda went public with girlfriend, the chief of staff for South Australian Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young, at Sydney WorldPride last month (pictured)

Natt, who bears a striking resemblance to Cruz-Martin, wore a sequined dress as she held up the rainbow pride flag.

She first appeared on Jacobs' Instagram feed on March 4.

While it's unclear when Jacobs and Cruz-Martin broke up, the film and television director now appears to be based in London.

One of Jacobs' last Instagram posts about Cruz-Martin was a birthday tribute she uploaded in December.

'Happy birthday, darling one,' the journalist wrote in the caption.

Jacobs (left) revealed the pair went on their first date in February. Natt (right) bears a striking resemblance to Jacobs' ex-partner Stevie Cruz-Martin

Jacobs told The Australian in 2021 she was brought up being told it was wrong to be gay and she would go to hell for her sexuality.

She also said she wanted her daughter Jade Dolman to have a more tolerant and accepting childhood than the one she had.

'I wanted Jade to grow up with an open mind; I didn't, because of our very Christian upbringing. We thought gays were going to hell,' she said.

The newsreader, 47, was previously in a long-term relationship with filmmaker Stevie Cruz-Martin (pictured) until just a few months ago. Cruz-Martin now appears to be living in London, and Jacobs' last Instagram post about her was this birthday tribute in December

Jacobs, who was raised in a strict Christian family before coming out at the age of 21, previously struggled to accept she was gay.

'I buried my sexuality so deep because of how we were brought up,' she told The Sydney Morning Herald in February 2021.

Her mother Margaret has made it clear she does not accept her sexuality, but loves her all the same.

'[My mother and I] have great conversations about all sorts of things, but there are certain things we just don't talk about,' she said.

'I would love to be able to talk about relationship stuff with my mum, but I know that I will never be able to.'
She has undergone a litany of cosmetic procedures over the years, including lip and cheek filler, a rhinoplasty and an infamously botched boob job.

And Skye Wheatley has now invested in an anti-ageing treatment to remove fine lines and wrinkles around her neck and decolletage.

Called Bio-remodelling or Profhilo, the treatment 'works by injecting ultra pure hyaluronic acid into the precise locations' and 'stimulates the production of collagen and elastin as well as attracting water to the deeper layers of your skin,' according to Advanced Cosmetic Medicine.

The Big Brother star-turned-influencer shared a series of photos and videos on Instagram of the treatment she had at the Charlie Ralph Clinic on the Gold Coast, where three treatments of Profhilo cost a total of $1,700.

'I thought I'd show you my neck and face while it's swollen,' Skye said after the treatment on Monday.

Big Brother star-turned-influencer Skye Wheatley has invested in an anti-ageing treatment to remove fine lines and wrinkles around her neck

'My necklines look 100,000 times better,' she said.

Sharing before and after photos of her neck, she added: 'This result was from Profhilo. It's my new favourite treatment. Wow! Look at the difference.'

In January, Skye said she wanted to go under the knife again for a potential breast reconstruction surgery after her botched boob job in Thailand in 2015.

Called Bio-remodelling or Profhilo, the treatment 'works by injecting ultra pure hyaluronic acid into the precise locations' and 'stimulates the production of collagen and elastin as well as attracting water to the deeper layers of your skin,' according to Advanced Cosmetic Medicine

Sharing before and after photos of her neck, she added: 'This result was from Profhilo. It's my new favourite treatment. Wow! Look at the difference'

Skye told fans she was struggling to make a decision because 'surgery is actually traumatic'.

'I think I just need another appointment because I don't think I want to go bigger but I don't know if a bigger implant will just give me more cleavage?' she said.

'I don't bloody know, guys. It does my head in and having surgery is actually traumatic because I'm a stress head.'

She has undergone a litany of cosmetic procedures over the years, including lip and cheek filler, a rhinoplasty and an infamously botched boob job

Speaking to Daily Mail Australia about her botched boob job, Skye warned young girls not to be lured by the promise of cheap plastic surgery abroad, saying: 'Don't, it's not worth it, stay in Australia.'

She added: 'If something goes wrong you have to pay for another flight to more costs to get it fixed. Do your research. I wish I had done mine better.

'I want my old boobs back as it will cost too much to fix and will be so much hassle than if I had got them done in Australia.'
Euphoria star Sydney Sweeney has been busy filming an untitled romantic comedy in Sydney, Australia, over the last few weeks.

And the 25-year-old turned up the heat with her co-star Glen Powell on Tuesday as they filmed a windswept scene at Maroubra Beach.

The Washington native went braless in a flowing pink gown with a ruffled hem and low-cut neckline, which showed off her famous cleavage.

She was seen strolling across the sand towards Glen, 34, before the barefoot actors locked lips for a passionate shot.

While the script called for romance, it was clear Sydney was having plenty of laughs behind the scenes as she chuckled with Glen and the crew in between takes.

Sydney Sweeney turned up the heat with her co-star Glen Powell as they filmed a windswept scene at Maroubra Beach on Tuesday

The Euphoria star has been busy filming an untitled romantic comedy in Sydney, Australia

The Washington native went braless in a flowing pink gown with a ruffled hem and low-cut neckline, which showed off her famous cleavage

Sydney has been busy on the set of her new film, which is being shot across NSW.

The yet-to-be-titled romantic comedy is directed by Will Gluck, who helmed romcoms Easy A and Friends with Benefits.

Details on the plot of the R-rated flick are being kept under wraps, but the film will also star Bryan Brown, Michelle Hurd, Hadley Robinson and Darren Barnet.

She was seen strolling across the sand towards Glen, 34, before the barefoot actors locked lips for a passionate shot

They passionately kissed as the cameras zoomed in

While the script called for romance, it was clear Sydney was having plenty of laughs behind the scenes as she chuckled with Glen and the crew in between takes

The project is expected to bring $41million into the local economy, as well as creating over 440 jobs for cast and crew.

Sydney has been Down Under for several weeks now and has been visiting popular tourist spots in Sydney including Taronga Zoo and Luna Park.

The Nocturne star has also been filming in locations across the city, including the inner-city suburb of Surry Hills and Double Bay, in the city's east.

Sydney has been busy on the set of her new film, which is being shot across NSW

The yet-to-be-titled romantic comedy is directed by Will Gluck, who helmed romcoms Easy A and Friends with Benefits

Details on the plot of the R-rated flick are being kept under wraps, but the film will also star Bryan Brown, Michelle Hurd, Hadley Robinson and Darren Barnet

The project is expected to bring $41 million into the local economy, as well as creating over 440 jobs for cast and crew

Sydney has been Down Under for several weeks now and has been visiting popular tourist spots in Sydney including Taronga Zoo and Luna Park
The Bachelor star Kiki Morris has detailed her devastating battle to save her rescue kitten's life.

The reality TV queen, who recently moved to the Spanish island of Ibiza, revealed how the kitten, named Lio, stopped breathing on Tuesday.

Kiki tried compressions on the kitten's body to get her breathing again at 4am, but the kitten was unable to be saved.

'I have cried all day, actually sobbed my heart out. Such an impact your little self made on me,' Kiki wrote, clearly emotional.

The star explained she had tried in vain to keep Lio alive over the course of eight hours.

Bachelor's Kiki Morris revealed the sudden death of her beloved rescue kitten as she detailed her devastating rush to save its life in a heartbreaking Instagram post on Tuesday

'The last eight hours I tirelessly tried to keep you alive since rescuing you, I should have insisted to the vet, not taken no for an answer,' she wrote.

'I knew the vet was wrong, call it mother's instinct, I begged him to help me, and when he said it would be fine till morning, I prayed that you would be.'

Kiki went on to say the kitten died in her hands.

'You died in my hands in the early hours and I tried CPR to keep you breathing. Not knowing if it would help but knowing I'll do anything to save you.'

'The last eight hours I tirelessly tried to keep you alive since rescuing you, I should have insisted to the vet, not taken no for an answer,' Kiki said in the post

'It was not enough and I'm so sorry lil baby,' she finished.

Kiki later shared a number of heartbreaking photos of the little kitten with the kitten making a number of adorable noises.

Kiki showed herself later comforting the kitten on a blanket before finally showing a purple blanket covering the kitten's body with flowers over it.

A number of Kiki's fans were equally devastated for her.

'You died in my hands in the early hours and I tried CPR to keep you breathing. Not knowing if it would help but knowing I'll do anything to save you,' Kiki added, sharing this photo

'You have such a beautiful soul. This breaks my heart,' one fan wrote.

'I'm so sorry you had to go through this, people without pets don't understand how quickly you become attached to them. Sending you so much love,' another added.

'Awww such a sweet and kind soul,' yet another wrote.

Kiki recently packed up her life and headed to Madrid last month where she debuted her new boyfriend, Jorge Darek.

Kiki recently packed-up her life and headed to Madrid last month where she debuted her new boyfriend, Jorge Darek (left)

She has shared numerous snippets from her new life including her new glamorous apartment in Ibiza.

She wrote in a post in February: 'It's not goodbye, it's see ya later. Last weekend in Sydney with my beautiful girls! Tomorrow is the day.'

Morris quietly signed up to OnlyFans in December last year and has been selling raunchy photos and videos behind the paywall ever since.

Kiki wrote in a post in February: 'It's not goodbye, it's see ya later. Last weekend in Sydney with my beautiful girls! Tomorrow is the day'

The former Bachelor star invited her followers to subscribe to her page for free and hoped to secure a sale once on board.

'Hi guys, I am so excited to finally join you all here. I will be sharing with you what you want to see feature on my page so let me know what you want to see of me, Or just stop and say hi,' she wrote in her initial post.

Bachelor fans will remember Morris from Richie Strahan's season in 2016. She later starred in spin-off series Bachelor In Paradise.
MAFS fans have gone wild after discovering footage of Alyssa Barmonde during an appearance on Judge Judy more than 13 years ago.

The 35-year-old, who hails from Utah, was a defendant on the syndicated courtroom show presided over by Judith Sheindlin back in 2010.

Alyssa reposted footage from the show on TikTok in 2021, which surprised those who assumed MAFS was her first brush with reality TV fame.

In two separate clips, Judge Judy yelled at the single mother, calling her 'annoying' and a 'functional illiterate' with her signature Brooklyn accent.

Alyssa, who recently lost her job as an executive assistant, looked very different in the throwback footage as she sported some questionable 2000s fashion.

MAFS fans have gone wild after discovering footage of Alyssa Barmonde during an appearance on Judge Judy more than 13 years ago (pictured on the show)

Alyssa reposted footage from the show on TikTok in 2021, which surprised those who assumed MAFS was her first brush with reality TV fame

MAFS viewers were amused by Alyssa's 'Karen'-style haircut which featured side bangs and prominent blonde highlights.

'That was some stage-three Karen hair and voice acting going on there. Kudos to you,' one TikTok user commented.

'I totally get it, that haircut was cool in 2010,' another added.

MAFS viewers were amused by Alyssa's 'Karen'-style haircut which featured side bangs and prominent blonde highlights

She also wore a bright orange top layered with a short-sleeved grey blazer.

In another TikTok video, Alyssa, who was 22 when she filmed the Judge Judy segment, opened up about her experience on set.

She explained what the case was about and revealed some interesting details about the production.

'One hundred per cent it's not scripted. It was totally real. I'm not an actress. Even though I really wanted to be one,' she said.

In another TikTok video, Alyssa, who was 22 when she filmed the Judge Judy segment, opened up about her experience on set. She explained she was 'being sued' by two of her housemates over a fire that started in their home, but the case was eventually thrown out

'It's very advantageous because if I were to lose, the show pays whatever you've been sued for. Let's say I was being sued for $2,000 and I lose - I pay nothing.

'I also got paid a small appearance fee, and I was put up in Hollywood for the night, which was awesome because I was 22.'

Alyssa then explained how she was 'being sued' by two of her housemates over a fire that started in their home.

'They tried blaming my hookah [pipe],' she added.

Alyssa went on to appear on Married At First Sight's tenth season after moving to Australia

'I stupidly send them a text message saying that I was going to be taking full responsibility. Actually they hacked my work computer and downloaded those text messages and brought them as evidence.'

She went on to say Judge Judy threw the case out because her housemates had kept her $700 security deposit.

Alyssa isn't the only participant from this year's season of MAFS to have appeared on reality TV in the past.

Evelyn Ellis was a contestant on Big Brother UK in 2016 and famously enjoyed a topless kiss with fellow housemate Lauren Carter.
Nicholas Braun revealed on Monday that he was knocked back for a role on the comedy-drama Ugly Betty when he tried out for it several years ago.

The Succession star, 34, admitted that in 2009 he auditioned for the role of a jester in a medieval times restaurant but failed to impress the panel.

'I rented a jester costume and rolled up in little jester shoes. I went for it but didn't get the part,' he confessed on The Kyle and Jackie O Show.

He then said he later watched the episode when it came out and answered with a firm 'no' when Jackie O asked him if the actor the show instead cast did a good job.

'I was bummed because I really went for it,' he said.

Nicholas Braun (pictured) revealed on Monday that he was knocked back for a role on the comedy-drama Ugly Betty when he tried out for it several years ago

Kyle then joked he should visit Ugly Betty star America Ferrara to show her what the show missed out on by not casting him.

'Yes, I go to her house often,' Nicholas joked.

The New York native is currently in Australia promoting the fourth and final season of his hit drama series Succession.

Earlier this month, he responded after his awkward interview on Australia's The Sunday Project made headlines around the world.

The Succession star, 34, admitted that in 2009 he auditioned for the role of a jester in a medieval times restaurant but failed to impress the panel. Pictured: Ugly Betty lead actress America Ferrara

He then said he later watched the episode when it came out and answered with a firm 'no' when Jackie O asked him if the actor the show instead cast did a good job

The actor was promoting the final season of his hit series Succession and launched into a lengthy story about meeting Quentin Tarantino towards the end of his five minute interview - only to be cut off mid sentence by the show's hosts.

Braun pointed out he was asked to tell the story, then told seconds later he was out of time.

'I had this guy yelling in my ear saying it was a minute left and all this stuff then they asked me to tell the story about Quentin Tarantino,' he told The Daily Telegraph.

'I must have had only like 20 seconds left. I was set up to just yell the end,' the 34-year-old added.

Nicholas said the interview was 'weird' and wished he had been given 'a few more minutes' to finish his story.

Earlier this month, he responded after his awkward interview on Australia's The Sunday Project made headlines around the world
Bill Hader has rekindled his relationship with comic-actress Ali Wong.

A rep for the 44-year-old actor confirmed to Page Six that Hader and Wong, 40, are dating again after a previous romance last autumn.

The Tulsa, Oklahoma native referred to his love interest indirectly in an interview with Collider published Sunday, as he mused about not having gone on a getaway in a decade.

'My girlfriend and I were just figuring out that I haven't had a vacation in 10 years,' The Barry leading man said. 'I went with her to San Francisco, but that doesn't really count.

'So, I'm going to have a vacation.'

The latest: Bill Hader, 44, has rekindled his relationship with comic-actress Ali Wong, 40, as a rep for the actor confirmed they are dating again

The Emmy-winning actor and the Beef actress had been romantically linked last fall, insiders told the outlet, describing it as a 'rebound' relationship after both were coming off high-profile breakups.

Wong, 40, had divorced businessman Justin Hakuta after an eight-year marriage while Hader parted ways with actress Anna Kendrick, 37, after a year of dating.

The couple initially spent two months together, with an insider telling the outlet that it was an 'amicable' parting with both tied up with their jam-packed schedules.

'They're just super busy with things,' a source told Page Six. 'They're certainly friends.'

A separate source told the outlet that Hader and Wong were protective of their privacy in their initial romance, as their friends 'helped them protect the relationship in light of Ali's divorce.'

The source added, 'Only a small circle of A-list comedians know and everyone was thrilled about it.'

The outlet reported that they traveled to Wong's native San Francisco this past January.

Dailymail.com has reached out to reps for both Hader and Wong for comment.

The Emmy-winning actor and Wong had been romantically linked last fall, insiders told the outlet, describing it as a 'rebound' relationship after both were coming off high-profile breakups
Cameron Diaz was back at work on Monday, marking the first time she has been seen in public since her costar Jamie Foxx was rushed to a hospital last week.

The 50-year-old actress was surrounded by crowds as she filmed scenes in the day time and at night in Atlanta, Georgia.

Her return to set for her comeback film Back In Action comes after People confirmed that Foxx was still in the hospital and undergoing tests in the wake of his medical emergency.

Although his family members initially revealed that he had been hospitalized for a so-called 'medical complication,' they haven't offered any details about his condition so far.

Cameron was dressed casually before filming began, with a loose-fitting black sweatshirt that swallowed up her trim frame.

Back at it: Cameron Diaz, 50, was seen on Monday for the first time since her costar Jamie Foxx was rushed to a hospital as she went back to shooting her comeback film Back In Action

Standing in: Because Foxx is still in the hospital, Cameron was forced to film with a body double

She had on matching black pants, and she added some color to her look with a pair of pale pinkframed glasses.

She appeared to go makeup free before getting made up for the scene, and she wore her long shoulder-length blond hair in a messy style.

The Mask star was spotted chatting with one of her costars, the young actress McKenna Roberts, as they appeared to go over the scripts.

The two actresses even shared a sweet hug.

Although Jamie wasn't available for the shoot due to his ongoing medical conditions, he was temporarily replaced by body doubles.

Two different men appeared to be standing in for his part, and both wore identical costumes with a gray jacket, a burgundy shirt, dark jeans and white trainers.

They also wore their hair cropped short while sporting goatees to match Jamie.

One of the men was seen rehearsing a fight scene on the set, which appeared to be taking up a large parking lot.

Back in black: Cameron was dressed casually before filming began, with a loose-fitting black sweatshirt that swallowed up her trim frame, plus matching pants and pink glasses

Catching up: The Mask star was spotted chatting with one of her costars, the young actress McKenna Roberts, as hey appeared to go over the scripts

It takes two: Two different men appeared to be standing in for Jamie

Doppelgangers: Both wore identical costumes with a gray jacket, a burgundy shirt, dark jeans and white trainers

Back in action: One of the men was seen rehearsing a fight scene on the set, which appeared to be taking up a large parking lot

The other body double was used when Cameron filmed a nighttime scene outside what looked like a nightclub named The Level.

A group of extras in bright clothing were seen lining up in front of the set.

Cameron had changed into a white sweatshirt and jeans while wearing her hair in a ponytail.

She had a concerned expression on her face and looked exasperated as she followed the body double between a pair of cars parked in front of the set.

While she continued filming, her 55-year-old costar remains at a medical facility in Georgia where he is undergoing tests, People confirmed on Monday.

While his family has shared news of his health scare, they have not provided any details.

However, on Friday, a source told People that Foxx was steadily improving.

Fans were initially alerted about the health scare when the actor's daughter Corinne Foxx shared a grave statement on social media this past Wednesday.

The 29-year-old actress wrote, 'We wanted to share that, my father, Jamie Foxx, experienced a medical complication yesterday.

'Luckily, due to quick action and great care, he is already on his way to recovery,' she continued.

'We know how beloved he is and appreciate your prayers. The family asks for privacy during this time,' the statement concluded.

After hours: The other body double was used when Cameron filmed a nighttime scene outside what looked like a nightclub named The Level

Crowded: A group of extras in bright clothing were seen lining up in front of the set

No fuss: Cameron had changed into a white sweatshirt and jeans while wearing her hair in a ponytail

Out of her element: She had a concerned expression on her face and looked exasperated as she followed the body double between a pair of cars parked in front of the set

Still recovering: While she continued filming, her 55-year-old costar Foxx remains at a medical facility in Georgia where he is undergoing tests, People confirmed on Monday

Getting anxious: Producers have had to adjust the production, as Foxx still has eight days left of filming to complete

At the time, sources confirmed to TMZ that Foxx's unnamed condition was serious enough to require him to go to a hospital.

Limited details have been shared and it's unclear what symptoms the comedian may have been suffering from.

On Friday, CNN reported tests were being conducted to determine what led to his health scare and that the actor was under observation at the hospital.

'They are running tests and still trying to figure out what exactly happened,' an insider said.

Despite his improving condition, there's no word yet on when he will be able to leave the hospital or get back to filming.

The film, which also features Glenn Close, has been marketed as the return to acting for his co-star Cameron Diaz, whom he helped to lure out of retirement, though she reportedly plans to retire for good after a string of catastrophes on the film set.

The hospitalization was serious enough that the actor's family came from out of town to be with him.

One source told TMZ, 'He's communicating now, and that's good news,' which may imply that he was at one point unable to communicate due to the medical emergency.

Foxx shares his daughter Corinne with his ex-girlfriend Connie Kline. He also has a 13-year-old daughter Annalise, whom he shares with Kristin Grannis.

His latest film shoot in Atlanta appears to have been a surprisingly stressful ordeal for the Baby Driver actor, as well as his colleagues.

Breaking: Fans were initially alerted about the health scare when the actor's daughter Corinne Foxx shared a grave statement on social media this past Wednesday; pictured in 2019

Grave: The 29-year-old actress wrote, 'We wanted to share that, my father, Jamie Foxx, experienced a medical complication yesterday'

It was reported last month that Foxx 'had an absolute meltdown' while the film was shooting in the UK, which led to the firing of multiple people.

He reportedly booted an executive producer from the project, along with two directors and even his own driver.

According to The Sun, one staffer was fired in relation to an apparent scam to access 33,000 in cash from the actor, which was reportedly in relation to the sale of a Rolex watch.

There was even more drama when it was revealed that production was paused last month after an unexploded WWII-era bomb was discovered on the film's set in London, just before two major action scenes were set to be filmed.
They are both in recovery after successfully battling alcohol dependency.

And pals Jodi Gordon and Rosie Jacobs hit a Sydney beach for a refreshing sunrise swim on Tuesday.

The two women looked happy and healthy as they went for a dip in the ocean before bravely jumping into an ice bath.

Jodi showed off her model physique in a black one-piece swimsuit with long sleeves as she got out of the water.

The former Neighbours star, 38, wore her long brunette locks out and appeared to be completely makeup free.

Newly sober pals Jodi Gordon and Rosie Jacobs hit the beach for an early morning swim before bravely jumping into an ice bath on Tuesday

The two women looked happy and healthy as they ran along the sand before going for a dip in the ocean

Rosie, 43, the ex-wife of former Today show weatherman Steve Jacobs, flaunted her figure in a red swimsuit with straps.

The former television producer left her short blonde locks out and accessorised with gold earrings.

After enjoying a swim in the ocean, Jodi and Rosie were seen getting into a small pool filled with ice.

The celebrity pals have plenty in common. They have both gone through tumultuous, high-profile break-ups and are also newly sober.

Jodi showed off her model physique in a black one-piece swimsuit with long sleeves as she got out of the water

The former Neighbours star wore her long brunette locks out and appeared to be completely makeup free

Jodi, known for her roles in Neighbours and Home and Away, has been through a string of failed relationships since her split from ex-husband Braith Anasta in 2015.

Her former flames include entrepreneur Aidan Walsh, British investment portfolio manager Sebastian Blackler, and a lawyer only known as Cedric.

She also dated real estate agent Warren Ginsberg in 2016.

Her last known boyfriend was Mr Blackler. The exes are currently subject to court-ordered AVOs prohibiting them from contacting each other until April 2024.

Rosie, 43, the ex-wife of former Today show weatherman Steve Jacobs, flaunted her figure in a red swimsuit with straps

The former television producer left her short blonde locks out and accessorised with gold earrings

Last year, Jodi underwent 'immersion therapy' at an alcohol rehabilitation clinic called The Sydney Retreat in Stanmore, where clients are offered a '30-day recovery program' for $8,800.

Speaking to Stellar about her sobriety in June, Jodi said: 'Alcohol is definitely my poison. I've chased this illusion that I can drink like a normal person for far too long.'

'It got really bad when I was doing Neighbours,' she added. 'In my industry, I think there's a lot of keeping up with appearances. I was trying to present something beyond [what] I could pretend to control, trying to do my best, but just sinking.'

Jodi is now committed to leading a healthy lifestyle, telling Daily Mail Australia in July: 'I've made some big changes this year. It's been a journey of getting my life to a place where I'm making changes, really taking time to invest in myself.'

After enjoying a swim in the ocean, Jodi and Rosie were seen getting into a small pool filled with ice

The celebrity pals have plenty in common. They have both gone through tumultuous, high-profile break-ups and are also newly sober

Last year, Jodi underwent 'immersion therapy' at an alcohol rehabilitation clinic called The Sydney Retreat in Stanmore, where clients are offered a '30-day recovery program' for $8,800

Like Jodi, Rosie went through a messy divorce from her ex-husband Steve in 2017, and previously struggled with alcoholism.

She also had an acrimonious break-up with former AFL player Matt Shir between 2018 and 2019.

On November 9, Rosie celebrated her first year of sobriety.

'365 days today alcohol free! And I have to say, this life is AMAZING!' she wrote on Instagram.

'Today I wake up filled with energy, creativity, a sense of fun, joy and excitement for the future. I am surrounded by extraordinary people who are traveling this amazing road with me. I am the proudest mama bear I could be. I am kicking career goals and living the life I have always dreamed of,' she added.

Speaking to Stellar about her sobriety in June, Jodi said: 'Alcohol is definitely my poison. I've chased this illusion that I can drink like a normal person for far too long'

Like Jodi, Rosie went through a messy divorce from her ex-husband Steve in 2017, and previously struggled with alcoholism
David 'Kochie' Koch said it is 'heartbreaking' that people are being scammed out of thousands of dollars from a cryptocurrency scam that claimed he was dead.

The Sunrise host, 67, announced that he is 'alive and well' after he was bombarded with 'tributes' over the weekend when a Twitter post announcing his death went viral.

'I am alive and well and having a break in beautiful Palm Cove at the moment, [the tweet] is certainly far from the truth,' the financial journalist told Bed Fordham on 2GB on Tuesday.

Originating from a hacked account, the tweet included a link redirecting users to a cryptocurrency scam featuring fraudulent celebrity endorsements purporting to be from the likes of Koch, billionaire philanthropist Bill Gates and others.

'Although saying goodbye is never easy, we take comfort in knowing that Kochie lived a full and meaningful life, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, warmth and compassion,' the scam tweet read.

The Channel Seven presenter was bombarded with 'tributes' over the weekend when a Twitter post announcing his death went viral

The message was accompanied by a black and white photo of Koch looking distraught with his hands over his face.

The TV presenter said the cruel death hoax is 'bloody annoying' and that he has been dealing with scammers using his picture with fake quotes for years.

'Ive been to the authorities, Ive talked to the ACCC (Australian Competition and Consumer Commission), and theyve told me the only reason these scams keep going is because people are falling for it and losing money, otherwise they wouldn't use me,' he continued on 2GB.

'My issue is that I get emails from people caught in this thinking they are real and blaming me for it, so what do I do to protect myself from this let alone the Australians losing their hard earned cash?'

The TV host said a year ago, a pensioner contacted him after falling victims to one of these scams that used his name and photo, and he lost $10,000.

The TV host said a year ago a pensioner contacted him after falling victims to one of these scams that used his name and photo, and he lost $10,000

'This is real people, real money, and it's heart breaking,' he said.

After being left distraught by the cruel and viral death hoax, Koch is calling on social media platforms to put a stop to these scam advertisements.

He said: '[In] traditional media it is our responsibility to do the due diligence to not run these scams, so what is the responsibility of these social media platforms that say they are the new media and bigger than traditional media? They should have the same responsibility.

'I was reporting to Facebook about every week with different scams and they would say "yes, we have blocked that server" but then they would pop up everywhere else.'

Last Friday, Koch retweeted the viral tweet that claimed he was dead, and assured his followers that this was not the case.

Sunrise host David 'Kochie' Koch has been targeted by a cruel death hoax with criminals using his image and fake news of his passing to scam people out of thousands of dollars

'Just for clarity, I'm alive and well and enjoying AFL's Gather Round in Adelaide with all my family. This stuff is really giving me the s**ts,' he wrote.

The owner of the Twitter account, Kimberly Ramirez, told Crikey she 'had no idea' her hacked account was spreading a crypto scam under the guise of a tribute to Koch.

'I had no idea this was happening. I had deleted the app off my phone for a while and forgot about it,' the New York-based advertising worker said.

She went on to say she had received an email from Twitter alerting her to a login attempt on her account. The email stated the hacker could have accessed her account from Lake Forest, Illinois.

After they successfully hacked into her account, they changed the password and began spamming her profile with links to the cryptocurrency scam.

'This a**hole left me a debt of over $1,000 on ads,' Ms Ramirez said.

Originating from a hacked account, the tweet included a link redirecting users to a crypto scam featuring fraudulent celebrity endorsements purporting to be from the likes of Koch

Koch's death hoax was viewed 140,000 times and more than 6,000 Twitter users clicked on the advertisement, which led them to a website pushing Immediate Edge.

The 'get-rich-quick' scam boasts fake endorsements from celebrities such as Jeremy Clarkson, Piers Morgan and Justin Trudeau.

People who have fallen victim to the scam claim they signed up to the service expecting 'great returns' from cryptocurrency investments but were locked out of their accounts after depositing hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

Koch retweeted the post and assured his followers that despite taking a week off work, he was 'alive and well'
Some say life begins at 30, but for Hayden Panettiere the milestone was an opportunity for the actress to reclaim her sense of self after descending into opioid and alcohol dependency during her twenties.

The American star, now 33, has embarked on a fresh chapter with the aid of the 12-step programme, an abstinence based philosophy though which she overcame an alcohol dependency that began while working on hit US musical drama Nashville in 2012.

Arguably worse, Panettiere had turned to highly addictive prescription painkillers following the birth of daughter Kaya in 2014 - her only child with former partner Wladimir Klitschko - after suffering the potentially debilitating symptoms of postpartum depression.

'I was being told how to be and how to live by so many people in my life,' she told the May edition of Women's Health UK of the catalyst for her alcohol abuse, which escalated after she relocated from her native Los Angeles to Tennessee.

'I wanted certain decisions to be my own, and nobody could stop me. What I put in my body was like an act of defiance.'

Opening up: Hayden Panettiere has reflected on her use of alcohol and opioids in a new interview with Women's Health UK

Moving on: The American star, now 33, has embarked on a fresh chapter after a successful spell in residential rehabilitation

Let's talk: 'I was being told how to be and how to live by so many people in my life,' she said of the catalyst for her alcohol abuse

Panettiere, who also features as the latest Women's Health cover star, added: 'Some people work out. I wish that was my coping mechanism. Alcohol might make you feel better in that moment, but it makes you feel so much worse the next day, and then you do it all over again.'

The actress turned to the bottle to help deal with postpartum depression and she described the experience as being characterized with feelings of 'extreme hopelessness.'

Her low mood was compounded by the recurring effects of a former neck injury that led her to also use opioids.

'I was in a lot of pain,' she recalled. 'My tolerance got so high so fast that it became a problem.'

Speaking openly about that time in her life, the mother-of-one admitted, 'I should have gone on antidepressants [to cope with the postpartum depression], but you have to find the right one that works for you.'

'They dont mix well with alcohol, and I wasnt ready to stop drinking.'

Painful: Panettiere turned to the bottle to help deal with postpartum depression and she described the experience as being characterized with feelings of 'extreme hopelessness'

POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION Postpartum depression occurs after the birth of a baby. It affects up to 20 per cent of women in the US and 10 per cent in the UK. This is different from baby blues, which commonly include mood swings, crying spells, anxiety and difficulty sleeping. This is a more severe, long-lasting form of depression. There may be problems of bonding with the baby, enjoying motherhood, periods of anger or rage, sadness and crying. There may be the constant feeling of being overwhelmed or possible thoughts of harming yourself or running away and escaping. PPD is one disorder under the group of illnesses called perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. Source: Mayo Clinic and Postpartum Progress For confidential support in the UK call the Samaritans on 116123 or visit a local Samaritans branch, see www.samaritans.org for details. For confidential support in the US call the National Suicide Prevention Line on 1-800-273-8255. For confidential support in Australia call the Lifeline 24-hour crisis support on 13 11 14. Advertisement

Crutch: The depression was compounded with recurring effects of a former neck injury that led her to also use opioids

Read all about it: The full Hayden Panettiere interview is available in the May issue of Womens Health UK, on sale from 18th April, also available as a digital edition

When she entered rehab in 2015 she said it was her idea: 'I was the one who put myself in the first treatment center. I was drowning.'

Upon turning 30, the household name found herself in another 12-step program, where participants are encouraged to embrace a life of complete abstinence from all mind altering substances, including alcohol.

'My body was like, "enough,"' she explained. 'I hit 30. My face was swollen. I had jaundice. My eyes were yellow. I had to go to a liver specialist. I was holding on to weight that wasnt normally there. My hair was thin and coming out in clumps.'

Eight months of working on herself paid off and she was finally ready to return to work after a four-year hiatus.

'A big part of my therapy has been living in forgiveness,' she noted. 'A step in the 12-step program is making amends. If somebody wants to be a good person and to be the best version of themselves, they can choose to do that.'

Eight months of working on herself paid off and she was finally ready to return to work after a four-year hiatus.

Old times: Panettiere took a starring role in Nashville (pictured), but she says her problems began when she relocated from Los Angeles to Tennessee while filming the show

Struggles: The actress looks worse for wear during a night out in Los Angeles in 2018

But Panettiere's return to the screen has been overshadowed by the death of 28-year old brother Jansen in New York City on February 19.

The actor died of aortic valve complications stemming from an enlarged heart, but despite her grief the actress has remained committed to recovery.

'A big part of my therapy has been living in forgiveness,' she noted. 'A step in the 12-step program is making amends.

'If somebody wants to be a good person and to be the best version of themselves, they can choose to do that.'

Read the full Hayden Panettiere interview in the May issue of Womens Health UK, on sale from 18th April, also available as a digital edition.
Love Island's Jessie Wynter has revealed she's retuning to Australia at the end of May as her UK visa is set to expire.

The brunette beauty, 26, competed on the UK version of the show, finding love with farmer Will Young after first finding fame on series two of Love Island Australia in 2019.

And while she was unlucky in love the first time round, the influencer is now as loved-up as ever, and wants to bring her British farmer Down Under with her.

'Will might be coming with me, which is really exciting, and then we're going to look at what other types of visas I can have when I get back over here,' she told the Sun.

Love Island's Jessie Wynter has revealed she's retuning to Australia at the end of May as her UK visa is set to expire

'I do see myself long-term in the UK, if Will doesn't enjoy Australia too much. Everyone I know from the UK has been saying Will's going to love Australia, so I'm concerned,' she joked.

Jessie, who is staying with Will in the English countryside, added that she misses her family in Australia, having not seen them since Christmas.

Luckily, she's been warmly accepted into the Young family.

'I feel if I hadn't gone back to the farm it might have been too overwhelming coming straight into a new country, the hustle and bustle,' she added.

The brunette beauty, 26, competed on the UK version of the show, finding love with farmer Will Young after first finding fame on series two of Love Island Australia in 2019

'I know it's different. It's not the typical Love Island setting, but we're so happy with how it's worked out.

'There have been periods where I've felt so homesick, but Will and his family have been so comforting for me. I'd be lost without them, they're so lovely.'

The pair's relationship has been going from strength to strength after leaving the Love Island villa last month.

It comes after Will Young has broken his silence on his 'feud' with Casey O'Gorman and Tom Clare, insisting he and Jessie have been 'focusing on themselves' since leaving the villa.

The Australian reality star, 26, entered the villa as a bombshell and quickly hooked up with farmer Will, 23

Jessie has been living in Buckinghamshire on her beau's family farm since leaving the South African villa last month, but her visa expires soon

It follows rumours circulating the trio have fallen out despite being inseparable on the show.

Jessie added that the pair have no plans to travel up north to see the others in Manchester where Tom and Samie Elishi and Casey and Claudia Fogarty had been hanging out.

When asked recently about who he is still close with since leaving while on The Useless Hotline Podcast Will said: 'I was pretty close with Tom and Casey in the villa, you know, the three musketeers!

'But kind of outside me and Jessie are just focusing on ourselves.

Jessie added: 'We've been out on the farm, it's really hard, they're all like 'Come to Manchester' and it's like babe we're so far away!

'You can't just leave': It comes after Jessie revealed she tried to quit the show but producers told her she couldn't

'It would take us a day to get there!'

A clash broke out between the two boys on the ITV2 spin-off show Aftersun when they left the villa, with Will branding his old pal Casey 'a snake' after hearing his comments Jessie is 'fake'.

While chatting to Maya, axed Will and Jessie were shown a clip from the ITV2 dating show when Casey told bombshell Maxwell Samuda that he thought Jessie was putting on 'an act'.

Loved-up: The couple, who were dumped from the ITV2 show days before final in South Africa, have been inseparable since flying back to London

When Will had originally confronted Casey about the conversation in the villa, Casey had insisted he thought Jessie was 'genuine' and blamed the chat on Maxwell.

However, Will was left shocked after being shown the original video of Casey's remarks, turning around and branding Casey a 'snake' as Maya, 28, looked shocked.

In the clip from the villa, Casey was heard telling Maxwell: 'The more I'm seeing of Jessie, the more I think she's playing a game.'

'Honestly, it was one of the most strange interactions, the way she was speaking to me, it seemed like such an act,' he added in another conversation.
Nicole Kidman's niece Lucia Hawley has revealed that she is suffering 'imposter syndrome' after scoring a new gig as a red carpet reporter for the E! network.

The journalist, 25, tells Media Week that the job is a 'dream' for her, but she sometimes doubts herself.

'I would say my confidence has really been tested in this role, especially in this industry, and that's been really good for my mental health,' she said.

'I think imposter syndrome is a really big thing and really prevalent, especially when you get a role like this because I've been chasing it for so long, and then when you finally have it, you think, "What, me?"'

Lucia said that getting the new job is 'pretty surreal' but she always had her 'eyes set on moving into broadcast'.

Nicole Kidman 's niece Lucia Hawley (pictured) has revealed that she is suffering 'imposter syndrome' after scoring a new gig as a red carpet reporter for the E! network

'It was a dream, because I've watched all the coverage since I was a kid, and then being able to be like, "Wow, this is my job now,"' she said.

Lucia, who is the daughter of Nicole's sister Antonia Kidman, recently spoke about nepotism and admitted that she comes from a 'privileged life and background'.

She said that her family connections have made her more determined to prove herself in the industry.

She told Woman's Day: 'I would never deny my privilege and I actually, totally hold my hand up and say, ''yeah, I'm privileged, I come from a really privileged family and I'm so grateful for the opportunities that have come my way because of it''.

'The only thing I can do is work hard and make an individual name for myself and prove myself.'

Lucia said that getting the new job is 'pretty surreal' but she always had her 'eyes set on moving into broadcast'

Discussing her 'nepo baby' title, she added: 'If that's the worst thing being said about me, then so be it.'

The term 'nepo baby', short for 'nepotism baby', stems from a recent article published by New York magazine calling out U.S. celebrities who used their famous parents and relatives to build their careers.

Among those named were Jaden Smith, the son of actors Will and Jada Pinkett Smith; Zoe Kravitz, the daughter of rock star Lenny Kravitz and actress Lisa Bonet; and Maya Hawke, whose parents are actors Uma Thurman and Ethan Hawke.

While the phenomenon is nothing new, the term 'nepo baby' has become an increasingly popular term to describe it.

Last month, Lucia signed with major talent management agency Chic Talent after she landed the coveted gig of red carpet reporter for the E! network.

'Incredibly excited to announce the signing of [Lucia]to our roster,' they announced via their Instagram page.

'Lucia is the new host of the iconic Live from E! red carpet coverage for 7Bravo.'

Lucia is the daughter of Antonia Kidman, a former television presenter-turned-lawyer who is the sister of Oscar-winning actress Nicole Kidman.

'I would say my confidence has really been tested in this role' she said. 'I think imposter syndrome is a really big thing and really prevalent, especially when you get a role like this'. Pictured in 2018 with Nicole and Keith Urban

Lucia is the daughter of Antonia Kidman, a former television presenter-turned-lawyer who is the sister of Oscar-winning actress Nicole Kidman

Her grandfather was Antony Kidman, the late Australian psychologist and academic, who died from a heart attack in 2014 at age 75.

The signing came days after Lucia explained why she shouldn't be labelled a 'nepo baby' despite her enviable showbiz connections.

As the new face of Live From E!, the aspiring journalist will attend the biggest events in Australia, interviewing celebrities and reporting on the hottest fashion moments.

While some may accuse Lucia of using her 'nepo baby' connections to further her media career, she's insisted she worked hard to land her 'dream job'.

'I've been working towards this,' she recently told The Sunday Telegraph.

In her interview, Lucia did admit her mother's work as a TV presenter was beneficial for her career, but only because it taught her 'perspective' rather than opening doors.
Ruby Tuesday Matthews is heading to Fiji for a family holiday with her children.

And on Monday, the Byron Bay influencer, 27, showed off her seven-month-old daughter Holiday's clothing haul ahead of their upcoming trip.

The baby girl's new ensembles included a Fendi rainbow sundress which retails for $981 and a Dolce and Gabbana baby romper, which retails for $340.

The haul also includes a pink Chloe dress, which retails for $219, and a $135 dress and bloomers set by Stella McCartney.

Holiday's wardrobe also features a $192 rainbow dress by Stella McCartney, a Fendi knitted top, which retails for $717, and $647 Fendi leggings.

Ruby Tuesday Matthews showed off her baby daughter Holiday's $3200 clothing haul for their upcoming Fiji trip

Ruby welcomed her daughter Holiday, her first child with fiance Shannan and third overall, in September.

The influencer, who shares two sons with a previous partner, announced the news to her Instagram followers alongside a video of her baby girl lying in her bassinet.

'20.09.22 - 2.56kg - 8.41am at 36 weeks. Our hearts are overflowing and we are completely in love,' she wrote in the caption.

The baby girl's new ensembles included a Fendi rainbow sundress which retails for $981 and Dolce and Gabbana baby romper, which retails for $340.

Holiday's wardrobe features a $192 rainbow dress by Stella McCartney, a Fendi knitted top, which retails for $717, and $647 Fendi leggings

Ruby also shares sons Rocket and Mars with her ex-partner Ryan Heywood.

It's unclear when exactly Ruby and Shannan began dating, but loved-up Instagram photos of the pair began appearing in May 2021.

The couple announced their engagement in June that year.

Some wedding details have been confirmed, with Ruby saying it will be a small ceremony followed by a 'boujee lunch' with their closest friends.

The haul also includes a pink Chloe dress, which retails for $219, and a $135 dress and bloomers set by Stella McCartney
Netflix has issued a warning to viewers over full-frontal nudity and racy scenes in its new thriller Obsession.

In the show, Richard Armitage, 51, plays a surgeon called William who embarks on an affair with his son Jay's fiancee Anna (Charlie Murphy).

There are a number of sexy moments in the show and Netflix has rated it an 18 on its website as a result.

Despite their disclosure about the saucy moments in the series, Netflix received a number of complaints and took to Twitter to send out a playful warning.

The UK and Ireland account posted: 'If you've made the (questionable) decision to watch Obsession with your parents, these are the moments you'll probably want to excuse yourself.'

'These are the moments you'll probably want to excuse yourself': Netflix has issued a warning to viewers over full-frontal nudity and racy scenes in its new thriller Obsession

Sexy: In the show, Richard Armitage, 51, plays a surgeon called William who embarks on an affair with his son Jay's fiancee (pictured: Richard Armitage in the show)

Racy: In the show, Richard plays a surgeon called William who embarks on an affair with his son Jay's fiancee Anna (Charlie Murphy) (pictured: in the show)

Netflix then tweeted out the exact time stamps for the sex scenes in each episode.

It comes after Richard left little to the imagination as he bared all for a nude scene the show.

Will gradually becomes obsessed with Anna over the course of the show, with the pair partaking in a BDSM-fuelled relationship.

In one racy scene, Anna tells Will she is in full control when they are around family or in public but he can take the lead when they are alone.

'Kneel, and I'll give myself to you,' she tells him in one scene.

In another kinky scene, Will checks himself into the same hotel room Anna and his son Jay stayed in the night before and humps a pillow that smells of her.

The Netflix thriller is a new adaptation of the erotic novel Damage, which was made into a hit 1992 film with Jeremy Irons and Juliette Binoche

Obsession has been described as the 'sexiest thing on TV this year' by critics.

Drama: Will gradually becomes obsessed with Anna over the course of the show, with the pair partaking in a BDSM-fuelled relationship (pictured in the series)

In an interview with the Mail's Weekend Magazine, Richard admitted he has no plans to watch the series back.

He said: 'I won't be watching. I don't really like to watch most things I've done and this one was pretty intense... intense in a brilliant way. I'm left with a happy memory of what we did.'

The star also joked he didn't expect to be doing nude scenes at his age, adding: 'Yes, there's an irony in that I thought once I turned 50 I wouldn't have to take my shirt off any more.

'When I mentioned that to the producers of Obsession they said, 'We don't want just the shirt off... we want it all off!'

'But this story is about sexual psychology, a trap that people get caught up in. I thought it was interesting, an exploration of psychology through physical vocabulary.'

Obsession is a four part series and is available to watch on Netflix now.
BAFTA's P&O Cruises TV Memorable Moment Award nominations are out.

From Derry Girls' emotional finale to Nick and Charlie's kiss in Heartstopper and BBC's The Real Mo Farah documentary, nothing has been left out.

Also making the cut is the iconic afternoon tea between Paddington and the late Queen and Kate Bush's Running Up That Hill in Stranger Things.

The Traitors' final roundtable is up for the gong too.

So, ahead of next month's ceremony at Royal Festival Hall, MailOnline takes a deep dive into each moment.

TV's memorable moments REVEALED! From Paddington's afternoon tea with the late Queen (pictured) to the Derry Girls finale and THAT kiss in Heartstopper

Young love: BAFTA has unveiled its nominees ahead of next month's ceremony (Nick and Charlie's kiss in Heartstopper is pictured)

Iconic: From Derry Girls' emotional finale (pictured) to BBC's The Real Mo Farah documentary, nothing has been left out

Paddington Meets The Queen

Paddington and the late Queen bonded over their love of marmalade sandwiches ahead of the star-studded Platinum Jubilee concert.

The Queen had delighted millions of viewers after appearing in the comic sketch with the bear that no one could have foreseen to kick-start the Party in The Palace Jubilee Concert on Saturday June 4 2022.

The much loved British institutions tapped out the beat of Queens We Will Rock You anthem together on china teacups using silver spoons as a unique way of getting the celebrations under way.

The sketch, which the Queen spent half a day filming, was hailed by Britons as better than her Olympic opening show cameo with James Bond.

Accident-prone Paddington was shown causing mayhem by accidentally depriving the understanding sovereign of another cup of tea and spraying cream from a chocolate eclair over a Palace Footman.

During an adorable moment, the Queen revealed she shares Paddington's love of marmalade sandwiches and keeps an emergency stash in her trademark handbag.

Heartstopper  Nick and Charlie's First Kiss

The LGBTQ+ series, based off Alice Oseman's graphic novels, sees Joe Locke play schoolboy Charlie, who falls in love his classmate Nick Nelson (Kit Connor), forcing them to navigate a journey of self-discovery and acceptance.

With writer Alice also being nominated in the Writer: Drama category, Joe and Kit's first kiss is up for memorable moment.

Derry Girls  The Finale

The Good Friday Agreement referendum was the main topic of discussion in the Derry Girls' last episode.

Composed of two accords signed in April 1998, it put an end to the majority of the bloodshed of The Troubles, a political war in Northern Ireland that started in the late 1960s, was a significant breakthrough in the peace process there.

The sitcom has already been nominated in two categories, written comedy and female performance in a comedy series for Siobhan McSweeney.

Comeback: Kate Bush's eerie song Running Up That Hill is up, after an iconic scene in which Lucas, Dustin, and Steve rush to save Max from Vecna

Good watch: There are also nominations for the Traitors finale, in which Faithfuls Aaron Evans, Meryl Williams, and Hannah Byczkowski won the 101,050 prize money

Shock: The four-time Olympic gold medalist revealed how he was fooled into believing he was going to live with family by being smuggled into the nation under another child's identity

Stranger Things - Kate Bush's Running Up That Hill

Kate Bush's eerie song Running Up That Hill is up, after an iconic scene in which Lucas, Dustin, and Steve rush to save Max from Vecna.

The performer won her number one place in the rankings 40 years after the song's premiere when a brand-new generation heard her music for the first time.

Stranger Things missed out on a nomination for an international award, which pits Wednesday and Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story against The White Lotus and Pachinko.

The Traitors  Final Roundtable

There are also nominations for the Traitors finale, in which Faithfuls Aaron Evans, Meryl Williams, and Hannah Byczkowski won the 101,050 prize money when Wilfred Webster was exposed for his act.

Co-Traitor Kieran Tompsett gave his co-stars a 'parting gift' during the last roundtable, displaying serious Shakespearean levels of psychodrama and backstabbing.

Following her win, Meryl revealed that she hopes to follow in host Claudia Winkleman's footsteps and become a presenter, while both Hannah and Aaron are heading in a new career direction after quitting their jobs.

The Real Mo Farah

The last entry on the nominees list is Sir Mo's film The Real Mo Farah, in which he discusses how he was forcibly brought to the UK.

The four-time Olympic gold medalist revealed how he was fooled into believing he was going to live with family by being smuggled into the nation under another child's identity.

The 39-year-old athlete, who was given the name Hussein Abdi Kahin, declared, "The truth is, I'm not who you think I am."

Then he continues, When I was four my dad was killed in the civil war, as a family we were torn apart. I was separated from my mother, and I was brought into the UK illegally under the name of another child called Mohamed Farah.'

Sir Mos PE teacher, Alan Watkinson, submitted an application for his British citizenship, which he acquired on July 25, 2000, when he was 17 years old.

He later became the first track and field athlete from the United Kingdom to win four Olympic gold medals.
Tara Moss has thanked her friends and loved ones as she continues her legal battle.

The model-turned-author, 49, posted a number of behind the scenes images from a recent photo shoot to Instagram alongside a sweet caption on Tuesday.

'Here's to you, my friends, I love you. Truly,' the author wrote. 'Thank you for your support. It means the world.'

In the photos, Tara dons a glamorous ensemble in a bar and poses with her walking stick in a campaign for John Fluevog Shoes.

She added: 'Here's to normalising mobility aids, dynamic disabilities and more inclusive campaigns!'

Tara Moss (pictured) has thanked her friends and loved ones as she continues her legal battle

The model is engaged in a legal battle with a surgeon who operated on her hip six years ago, claiming their 'negligence' has now forced her into a wheelchair.

She is arguing the surgery caused years of 'agonising pain, loss of work and left her using a walking stick', reports The Sydney Morning Herald.

The British Columbian native's lawyers allege this is due to Blue Mountains doctor Chris Coghill failing to properly diagnose a right labral tear in her hip in 2016 - Coghill has rejected the claim.

'The defendant says if any damages were suffered by the plaintiff as alleged, which is denied, they were caused or contributed to by (her) own negligence,' the defense has claimed.

Both teams met for a mediation session on Friday to see if they could reach a settlement.

Moss is engaged in a legal battle with a surgeon who operated on her hip six years ago, claiming their 'negligence' has now forced her into a wheelchair

They will head to court in May for a planned six-week trial if no agreement can be reached.

Moss recently submitted a substantial 'evidentiary statement' to support her case, which includes about 80 pages of social media content.

Tara has been open about her struggle with pain over recent years, documenting her use of a cane and wheelchair on Instagram.

And back in 2021, the model gave a tell-all interview where she revealed that being in constant pain has changed the way her brain works.

The raven-haired beauty told Body and Soul magazine: 'I've come to learn that chronic pain is really neuroplasticity  brain changes  gone wrong.

The model-turned-author is arguing the surgery caused years of 'agonising pain, loss of work and left her using a walking stick', reports The Sydney Morning Herald

Tara has been open about her struggle with pain over recent years, documenting her use of a cane and wheelchair on Instagram

'Now I want to use the brain's adaptability to work in my favour, and retrain it not to be so loud and vocal about my pain'.

Elsewhere in the interview, the author was critical of the lack of accessible spaces for disabled people.

Tara began modelling at the age 14, before turning her attentions to writing, publishing her first novel, Fetish, in 1999.

She is now a bestselling author who has published 13 books in 18 countries and 13 languages around the world, and is considered one of Australia's best crime novelists.

The former model lives in the Blue Mountains with her Australian poet husband Berndt Sellheim and their 12-year-old daughter Sapphira.
Renee Bargh welcomed her first child with her partner Andrew Lange last month.

And the television presenter is sharing the difficulties of having a newborn with her Instagram followers.

One of those struggles is trying on clothes while a baby is attached to her chest.

Sharing a photo of her adorable baby boy Tide sleeping on her chest in a carrier Renee wrote: 'Attempting to try on clothes with a baby strapped on.

'Not my brightest idea....'

In the photo, the 36-year-old was wearing a white polo-neck top and black biker shorts with a pair of comfortable trainers.

Renee Bargh has shared the struggles of motherhood as she attempted to try on gifted clothes with her newborn baby strapped to her chest

To her right was a pair of gifted clothes from Arti Poppe but the mother was trying to figure out how she could show off these clothes to her followers without taking little Tide off her chest.

It appears that possibly waking him was too big of a risk, as she didn't post any more stories of her trying on the clothing.

The new mother shared the news on social media last month that she and her partner welcomed a beautiful baby boy.

It appears that possibly waking him was too big of a risk, as she didn't post any more stories of her trying on the clothing

Posting a carousel of intimate photos from the day he was born, she wrote: 'Tide Thomas Lange. Almost two weeks of being your mum and dad.

'All the cliches they tell you are true your heart truly does expand, the love for your partner grows exponentially, time stands still,' she continued.

'You can't imagine your life before they existed and you'll do anything to protect this tiny human.

The new mother shared the news on social media last month that she and her partner welcomed a beautiful baby boy

Posting a carousel of intimate photos from the day he was born, she wrote: 'Tide Thomas Lange. Almost two weeks of being your mum and dad'

'We'll be over here in the love bubble staring at our little man until further notice' she concluded.

The series of black and white images showed Andrew comforting Renee during her water birth, as well as the couple cuddled up in bed with their newborn.

The couple were inundated with well wishes from their famous friends in the comments below the post.

'Congratulations beautiful. So happy for you both. How amazing,' Sally Obermeder wrote.

'Finally!!! How wonderful,' added television presenter David Campbell while comedian Tanya Hennessy said, 'Congrats beauty'.

'Oh my god congrats my love! He is perfect!' added former reality star Tully Smyth.

The series of black and white images showed Andrew comforting Renee during her water birth, as well as the couple cuddled up in bed with their newborn

The couple were inundated with well wishes from their famous friends in the comments below the post

The mother-to-be announced she was expecting her first child in September, posting a gallery of photos on Instagram of herself and partner Andrew at the beach.

'Everything I ever wanted. Baby Lange on the way,' she captioned the images.

The baby news came months after the couple bought their first home together on Sydney's northern beaches for $2,475,000.

While it's unclear how long they have been dating, Renee and Andrew went 'Instagram official' in November 2021.
EastEnders star Michelle Collins has revealed she rushed to hospital on Monday.

Taking to Twitter, the actress, 60, admitted it had been a 'worrying time' but was quick to assure her fans that she was on the mend.

She revealed: 'Thank you @nhs @RoyalFreeNHS for seeing me this morning at 9 am ,been a Worrying time but hopefully now all ok . when it works the @NHSEngland is fantastic ! Don't destroy it. [sic]'

The following morning Michelle revealed she was feeling back to her best as she snapped a selfie ahead of working on a new project.

She kept the details brief, simply captioning the black and white snap: '#filming #hotel #swimmingpool #bitchilly #northdevon #firstday #britishfilm #indiefilm #melodrive #herewego'.

Health scare: EastEnders star Michelle Collins has revealed she rushed to hospital on Monday (pictured on Good Morning Britain in March)

Worries: Taking to Twitter, the actress, 60, admitted it had been a 'worrying time' but was quick to assure her fans that she was on the mend

While Michelle didn't reveal the reason for her hospital dash she shared in October that she had undergone various tests at a walk-in clinic.

She shared: 'Thank you so much, under two hour wait and great staff, doctors, polite, well mannered.

'Thank god we still have these to put less pressure on A&E, had tests and went away with antibiotics.'

After a fan expressed their concern and asked: 'Hope all is OK now?' Michelle replied: 'Yes, thanks. I'll be fine now, so nice of you to ask.'

MailOnline has contacted Michelle's representatives for comment.

As well as working on her new film, Michelle has been kept busy with a political project and last month delivered a petition to Downing Street asking for all primary school children to receive free school meals.

The actress, who hails from London, spoke out about her own experiences as a child as her mum had to work three jobs to pay for food so she would not have to line up for free dinners.

The capital's mayor Sadiq Khan recently unveiled a taxpayer-funded 130million plan to give all London primary schoolchildren free meals - and suggested the scheme should be copied nationwide.

The capital's mayor will fund meals for one year from September for up to 270,000 students, funded by business rates paid by firms, in a move he said would save families up to 440 per child.

Looking good: The following morning Michelle revealed she was feeling back to her best as she snapped a selfie ahead of working on a new project

Touching on the very personal reasons she decided to back this scheme being rolled out across the UK, Michelle told Ben Shephard and Susanna Reid on Good Morning Britain that she has been an ambassador for children's charity Barnardos for years.

'I'm a mother, but I also remember when I was a kid and my mum was a single parent,' Michelle said. 'She didn't want us to have free school dinners because she felt it was humiliating for us.

'There were separate queues in those days, so she had three jobs and she really struggled. But I knew how some of my friends felt, who were in that queue. Now things are getting back to what it was years ago.

'At the moment there are free school meals up to the age of two and then you have to pay for it.

'Sadiq Khan has rolled out that London is going to do it for a year but what we want the Government to do is make it nationwide.'
It's arguably Netflix's raciest and most scandalous season to date.

But Obsession viewers are all saying the same thing about a scene which took place with a hotel pillow and the show's male protagonist, William, played by Richard Armitage, 51,

The three-part series, which contains a lot of nudity, tells the story of a respected London surgeon who has an affair with his son's fiancee, Anna, played by Happy Valley star Charlie Murphy, 34.

The erotic infatuation threatens to change their lives forever.

In one scene in episode two, William follows Anna to Paris, where she is enjoying a mini break with his son Jay, played by Rish Shah.

'I will never look at a hotel cushion the same again': Netflix's Obsession viewers are making the same joke about THAT pillow scene in series which comes with nudity warning

Wow! The three-part series, which contains a lot of nudity, tells the story of a respected London surgeon called William, who has an affair with his son's fiancee, Anna, (pictured)

After the couple check out of the hotel, William is so obsessed with Anna that he demands she comes to meet him outside, where they have sex in an alleyway.

However, Anna is not impressed with William breaking the rules she has laid out, which indicate that she is the one who decides when they met up.

After she heads back to London, he checks into the same room which has since been cleaned.

But he lays on the bed, sniffing the pillows which she will have laid on, before performing a solo sex act in what can only be described as an eye-opening scene.

The scene caused viewers to take to Twitter in their droves with mixed reactions, but there was one common train of thought.

And that was that they would never see a hotel pillow the same way again, nor would they like to make use of cushions in hotels.

They wrote: 'Settled down to watch my guy Richard Armitage on #ObsessionNetflix only to see him f***ing a pillow.' along with a GIF of a scientist washes his eyes out.

'Just finished watching #Obsession and honestly I have no words... this show is hilarious what on earth was he doing with that pillow...dammn well...Much less Sexy than it looks...'

WASH OUT MY EYES! Twitter went wild after viewers watched the VERY racy solo sex act play out

'The articles coming out of Obsession are so funny. The pillow scene is the equivalent of the apple pie scene in American Pie but earnest which makes it so so much worse.'

'The pillow in Obsession is disgusted lol.'

'Im absolutely howling what is he doing to that pillow, god this is tragic. #obsession.'

'CurrentlyWatching new limited series #Obsession on Netflix. William is down horrendously bad omg, I cant stop laughing Hes tryna inhale this ladys scent out her pillow #ObsessionNetflix.'

'These are the moments you'll probably want to excuse yourself': Netflix has issued a warning to viewers over full-frontal nudity and racy scenes in its new thriller Obsession

Do not watch this in front of your parents: There are a lot of naked scenes in the series as the pair play out their fantasies

Netflix has issued a warning to viewers over full-frontal nudity and racy scenes in its new thriller Obsession.

There are a number of sexy moments in the show and Netflix has rated it an 18 on its website as a result.

Despite their disclosure about the saucy moments in the series, Netflix received a number of complaints and took to Twitter to send out a playful warning.

The UK and Ireland account posted: 'If you've made the (questionable) decision to watch Obsession with your parents, these are the moments you'll probably want to excuse yourself.'

Netflix then tweeted out the exact time stamps for the sex scenes in each episode.

Obsession is available on Netflix now
Gail Porter has revealed she was exploited by racy 'lads mags' back in the 90s - and was never paid for any of her work.

The TV personality, 52, had her naked body projected onto the Houses Of Parliament in 1999 without her consent when she was 28, as a publicity stunt for FHM's 'sexiest woman'.

The former Top Of The Pops and The Big Breakfast host has now revealed she was never even paid for the incident - and never received a copy of the pictures she was in.

She told The Daily Star: 'I never got paid for anything that I did - I never got paid for FHM, GQ, or a lot of the magazines that I did.

'Some of the others may have got paid, but I never did and I was quite vulnerable at the time.

Speaking out: Gail Porter (pictured on Loose Women last year) has revealed racy 'lads mags' exploited vulnerable stars in the 90s

Back then: The TV presenter, now 52, said she wasn't paid for any of her photoshoots (pictured in 1999)

'They were saying "This is going to be great for your career, it will be great fun, and think of the pics you can give your kids when you're older.'"

Gail recreated recreated the House Of Parliament look on her own terms when she was 39 but has said she will never do it again.

It comes after Gail announced she would headline a series of stand-up comedy shows dealing with her alopecia, mental health struggles and being homeless.

The Scottish TV presenter will launch her stand-up career at the Edinburgh Assembly Rooms from August 2-28 as well as shows around the UK.

Her routine will talk about how she went from being a children's TV presenter to posing nude and seeing her naked image beamed onto the Houses of Parliament to being sectioned, diagnosed as bipolar and sleeping rough.

Gail, once listed by FHM among the world's sexiest women, said: 'I'm super-excited to be coming to Edinburgh. I'll be doing stand-up seven-nights-a-week.

'I don't know if it's a mid-life thing or whatever but I got offered it and I thought, why not?

'I'll be doing a few little gigs around the country to trial the material before that. I've always wanted to do it and I've been writing a lot.'

Publicity stunt: Gail had her naked body projected onto the Houses Of Parliament in 1999 without her consent

She continued: 'I think when you have gone through pretty tough times and you can turn it into humour, other people can relate. 'The material will be about my life.

'I take things that happened that were pretty bad and talk about it in a way that is pretty funny and that I hope can help people.'

Ms Porter was married to Toploader guitarist Dan Hipgrave, with whom she has a daughter Honey, 19.

The couple separated in 2004 and divorced in 2006 and things started to spiral out of control after their break-up, with Gail ending up homeless.

A year after the breakup, Ms Porter lost her hair to scalp condition alopecia and because she would not wear a wig for television appearances, work dried up.

At the same time, Gail was struggling with the split and found out that her mother had cancer.

In 2007, Ms Porter wrote about her hair loss story in an autobiography, Laid Bare: My Story of Love, Fame and Survival.

Ex-love: Gail was married to Toploader guitarist Dan Hipgrave (pictured in 2001), with whom she has a daughter Honey, 19, but they divorced in 2006 and she went through a tough time

Then in 2011, she was sectioned and diagnosed as bipolar after her boyfriend at the time Johnny Davies expressed concerns for her welfare.

Sadly, in 2014, she became homeless and slept rough for a year because she could not afford to pay the bills or her rent as she was not working.

Gail slept on park benches on Hampstead Heath but she did not ask for help because she was embarrassed.

She did eventually reach out to her family and friends for support and went on Celebrity Big Brother in 2015, managing to use the fee for a flat deposit.

Describing it as a scary time, she explained that she refused to give up and that as a Scottish person, she is 'tough as old boots.'
Waterloo Road will be returning to screens for a second series since its revival, the BBC has confirmed.

Consisting of seven episodes, the new season - set to air in May - will welcome back Jamie Glover as Andrew Treneman, last seen in the series in 2009.

The show was originally axed in 2015, but following a revival in audiences during the first COVID lockdown, it returned to screens following an eight-year break.

Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama said: 'We are thrilled that Waterloo Road is returning following its successful run earlier this year.

'To have Jamie Glover reprise his role as Andrew Treneman alongside our fantastic returning and new cast members is a real treat and we can't wait to share more stories from the school.'

More to come: Waterloo Road will be returning to screens for a second series since its revival, the BBC has confirmed

The secondary school-set show first aired in 2006 and won legions of fans by tackling numerous tough issues over its 200-episode run.

In it's initial return, it tackled the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on school kids.

The gritty show - which was written by the creators of ITV prison drama Bad Girls - was originally set in Rochdale but later series saw a relocation to Greenock, Scotland.

The show, based once again around a high school in Greater Manchester, tells the stories of the challenges experienced by teachers, parents and pupils.

It also highlights the problems that teenagers face today, including the cost-of-living crisis, navigating being LGBTQ+, racism, sexism and mental health.

Returning for another term is Angela Griffin, who portrays teacher Kim Campbell.

She said of the show's new season: 'It's great to be back on BBC One and to be able to offer iPlayer fans some great new episodes. We have such a wonderful and talented cast, all of whom bring so much to Waterloo Road.

'This series holds a fair few surprises for Kim and everyone around her and I can't wait for people to catch up with all the action inside and outside the school.'

Reprise: Consisting of seven episodes, the new season - set to air in May - will welcome back Jamie Glover as Andrew Treneman, last seen in the series in 2009

And again! The show was originally axed in 2015, but following a revival in audiences during the first COVID lockdown, it returned to screens following an eight-year break

Jamie said: 'I am so excited to be returning to Waterloo Road.

'The school has been such an important part of my life and it's wonderful to be able to rekindle the old flame.

'Not to mention the joy of getting to work with the incomparable Angela Griffin once more. I hope that people will enjoy seeing Andrew and Kim together in the school again. Older? Certainly, there's the grey hair to prove it! Wiser? Who knows?'

Waterloo Road launched the careers of The Capture star Holliday Grainger, 33, and Jenna Coleman, who went on to win awards for her role as companion Clara Oswald in Doctor Who and as Queen Victoria in Victoria.

The series - of which all ten series were released on BBC iPlayer prior to lockdown - tackled issues such as teenage pregnancy, alcohol, and drug addiction, and cancer.

Hard-hitting storylines saw headteacher Rachel Mason (Eva Pope) being exposed as a former prostitute, an explosion rip through the canteen, and pupil Maxine Barlow being shot to death by boyfriend Earl Kelly.

The programme ended in 2014 with BBC1 controller Charlotte Moore saying at the time it was 'important to make room for new dramas'.

Drama: The secondary school-set show first aired in 2006 and won legions of fans by tackling numerous tough issues over its 200-episode run

Axe: The programme ended in 2014 with BBC1 controller Charlotte Moore saying at the time it was 'important to make room for new dramas'

The news was announced by BBC1's Twitter account, which wrote: 'Series 10 of #WaterlooRoad will be the final series. We're incredibly proud of the show but believe it has reached the end of its lifecycle. (sic)'.

Ms Moore said the BBC was 'incredibly proud' of the show but went on: 'We believe it has reached the end of its life cycle and won't be returning after series 10 finishes in 2015.

'On BBC1 it's important to make room for new drama and we are committed to commissioning new drama series for 8pm. There are some really exciting ideas currently in development but nothing to confirm yet.'

The final episode of the show aired on March 9 2015.

Returning for another season will be Adam Thomas (Donte Charles), Kym Marsh (Nicky Walters), Vincent Jerome (Lindon King), James Baxter (Joe Casey), Jo Coffey (Wendy Whitwell), Shauna Shim (Valerie Chambers), Neil Fitzmaurice (Neil Guthrie), Rachel Leskovac (Coral Walker), Katherine Pearce (Amy Spratt), Ryan Clayton (Mike Rutherford) and Sonia Ibrahim (Jamilah Omar).

Whoops: In January, Kym Marsh accidentally dropped a huge hint Waterloo Road was renewed for a second series

Filming: Kym, 46, who plays dinner lady Nicky Walters, raised questions if filming had already begun as she shared a behind-the-scenes snap in the make-up chair on set

Indeed, in January Kym Marsh accidentally dropped a huge hint Waterloo Road was renewed for a second series.

Kym, 46, who plays dinner lady Nicky Walters, raised questions if filming had already begun as she shared a behind-the-scenes snap in the make-up chair on set on Instagram.

Sharing a table full of beauty products, Kym captioned the photo: 'Work time!!! #WaterlooRoad.'

A source told MailOnline at the time: 'Its no secret that there are more episodes of Waterloo Road on the way, and that filming on the series continues.

'There'll be news in due course on when more episodes will premiere on BBC One and iPlayer.'
Andrew Lloyd Webber has recalled his final moments with late son Nick in a heartfelt essay for The New York Times.

The 43-year-old record producer died last month after a protracted battle with gastric cancer and pneumonia, with Lloyd Webber, 75, dedicating the final curtain call of Phantom of the Opera to his beloved late son.

Prior to the final performance on Monday, the composer was asked to write about his involvement in theatre for the publication.

He penned the essay just days after the death of his son, with Lloyd Webber beginning by referencing the day before he passed away.

Lloyd Webber began: '"An apple a day, if well aimed, keeps the doctor away." I was speaking in P.G. Wodehouse quotes with my eldest son, Nick, who was in hospice, where he was being treated for cancer just days ago.'

Heartbreaking: Andrew Lloyd Webber has recalled his final moments with late son Nick (also pictured with daughter Imogen and wife Charlotte Windmill in 2010)

He continued: '"Here's one for you," said Nick, laughing. He had surmised that, after bulletins from New York, his father, as Wodehouse might have put it, was less than gruntled.

'"Has anybody ever seen a dramatic critic in the daytime? Of course not. They come out after dark, up to no good." We hugged and said our goodbyes.

'The next day, my son died. Nothing's worse for a parent than the death of a child.'

Lloyd Webber went on to write that it felt 'wrong in his bones' to write about Broadway just days after the death of his child but reasoned that he owed 'everything' to his love of the theatre.

He concluded his essay by noting 'this has been a season of goodbyes, personal and public.'

Lloyd Webber confirmed that his eldest son had died in a tweet last month, writing: 'I am shattered to have to announce that my beloved elder son Nick died a few hours ago in Basingstoke Hospital.

'His whole family is gathered together and we are all totally bereft. - ALW'

Nicholas followed in his father's footsteps and was a successful composer in his own right, having written Fat Friends The Musical.

He was married to musician Polly Wiltshire, who appeared on the soundtrack of his father's 2019 movie Cats.

During his career, Nicholas also scored music for an adaption of The Little Prince as well as composing numerous TV and film scores, including for the BBC1 drama Loves, Lies, and Records.

Dedication: Nick died last month after a battle with gastric cancer and pneumonia , with Lloyd Webber, 75, dedicating the final curtain call of Phantom of the Opera to his beloved late son

On Monday, Lloyd Webber dedicated the final curtain call of Phantom of the Opera to Nick as the sensational Broadway show ended after 35 years.

The cast and crew took their final bows on stage Sunday, concluding New York's longest-running show with thunderous standing ovations, champagne toasts and gold and silver confetti bursting from its famous chandelier.

It was show No. 13,981 at the Majestic Theatre and it ended with a reprise of The Music of the Night performed by the current cast, previous actors in the show - including original star Sarah Brightman - and crew members in street clothes.

Lloyd Webber wearing a suit and black tie, spoke of how Nick had listened to the same music as a child.

'When he was a little boy, he heard some of this music,' Lloyd Webber said. Brightman, holding his hand, agreed: 'When Andrew was writing it, he was right there. So his son is with us. Nick, we love you very much.'

The first production opened in London in 1986 and since then the show has been seen by more than 145 million people in 183 cities and performed in 17 languages over 70,000 performances.

The musical - a fixture on Broadway since opening on January 26, 1988 - has weathered recessions, war, terrorism and cultural shifts.

But the prolonged pandemic may have been the last straw: It's a costly musical to sustain, with elaborate sets and costumes as well as a large cast and orchestra.
The woman accused of sleeping with forner Love Island winner Davide Sanclimenti emerged for the first time on Sunday, amid claims she has received a barrage of hateful messages from the Italian hunk's girlfriend.

Sporting a black top and matching leggings, model Harriet Wilson was seen out in Manchester city centre, just hours after news of her alleged fling with Sanclimenti emerged.

The pretty blonde, 24, checked her phone while shopping with friends after sources claim she was branded a 'f***ing s**g' by the reality TV star's furious girlfriend Ekin-Su Culculoglu.

Turkish actress Ekin-Su, 28 - who won Love Island with Sanclimenti in 2022 - reportedly lashed out at Wilson in a foul-mouthed rant after accusing her of sleeping with her boyfriend.

Here she comes: Harriet Wilson, the woman accused of sleeping with Love Island winner Davide Sanclimenti, emerged for the first time since the allegations were made on Sunday

Furious: Turkish actress Ekin-Su Culculoglu - who won Love Island with Sanclimenti in 2022 - reportedly lashed out at Wilson in a foul-mouthed rant

Out and about: Sporting a black top and matching leggings, Wilson was seen out in Manchester city centre, just hours after news of her alleged fling with Sanclimenti emerged

According to The Sun on Sunday, Ekin-Su is said to have also called the model 'disgusting' and fumed 'Youre finished' in angry messages after finding texts from her on Sanclimenti's phone.

The publication reports that the Turkish TV star also lashed out at a second woman, Phoebe Wintle, after also discovering her texts on his mobile.

Ekin-Su's alleged outburst came after she returned from a trip to Belfast earlier this month and had feared that Sanclimenti had hooked up with Wilson and Wintle.

In messages reportedly seen by The Sun on Sunday, Ekin-Su is said to have ranted: 'You f***ing s**g. Sleeping with my boyfriend! Disgusting. Why would you do that?

'You and Phoebe are gonna be shown to everyone slags. Pretending nothing happened. Just wait for it. You cow. Youre finished mate.'

A source is said to have told the publication that Wilson was 'taken aback' by the Instagram messages, adding: 'What makes it worse is that they knew each other before this all kicked off.

Accusations: The Love Island winner, who won the show with beau Davide last year, is said to have branded Wilson a f***ing s**g over her suspected fling with the Italian hunk

Anger: According to The Sun on Sunday, Ekin-Su is said to have also called the model (pictured) 'disgusting' and fumed 'Youre finished' in angry messages after finding texts from her on Davide's phone

'Harriet used to keep an eye on Davide for Ekin-Su on his nights out in Manchester and report back to her.'

The couple headed off on a make-or-break trip to Amsterdam last week, and while Sanclimenti shared a snap of the beauty at breakfast, she failed to upload an image of him.

Earlier this month, Ekin-Su was reportedly left furious after finding messages and pictures from two models on Sanclimenti' s phone.

The reality star is said to have been 'fuming and upset' as she suspected Sanclimenti had a romantic rendezvous with the pair, who are said to be regulars on the Manchester party scene.

Actress Ekin-Su allegedly messaged one of the girls to ask what had gone on after the reality star returned from a trip to Belfast.

Letting rip: In messages reportedly seen by The Sun on Sunday, Ekin-Su is said to have ranted: 'You f***ing s**g. Sleeping with my boyfriend! Disgusting. Why would you do that?'

Furious: The publication reports that the Turkish TV star also lashed out at a second woman, Phoebe Wintle (pictured), after also discovering her texts on his mobile

Suspicious mind: Ekin-Su's alleged outburst came after she returned from a trip to Belfast earlier this month and had feared that Davide had hooked up with Harriet and Phoebe

A source told The Sun: 'It all exploded last Sunday after she found messages on Davides phone discussing their time together.

'He had been messaging both of the girls and she suspected they had all met up one night.

'Ekin-Su contacted one of the girls to tell them she knew about things. She was furious and really upset.'

Television personality Ekin-Su posted a number of cryptic social media messages, including a tweet which appear to mock Wilson's Instagram snaps.

The post, which has since been deleted, read: 'No man will ever take u seriously with just half naked pictures of u in a bikini and lingerie'.

While she also liked two posts from another user which mentioned 'disrespect' and the need for 'distance', according to the publication.

She also shared some words on Instagram which read: 'A girl can be just as sexy without showing some skin.'

The pair moved in together after winning Love Island last year but earlier this year were forced to dismiss claims their relationship was a showmance.
Vanessa Lachey has been blasted by fans for her 'weird baby obsession' after questioning contestants about their pregnancy plans on the Love Is Blind live reunion show.

Fans were baffled as she said: 'Who will be the first to have babies? Are you trying? I hope you are trying. By the way, are you trying?' among other nauseating questions on the theme, without considering that not all women are able to have children.

The show's first ever live reunion got off to a rocky start on Sunday after it crashed following technical difficulties - being released 75 minutes after it was scheduled.

Though fans were left fuming at the Netflix gaffe, what has stuck out in viewers' minds more was Vanessa's 'cringeworthy pressuring' of the contestants to procreate.

She began her piece by playing a clip of former contestant Bartise Bowden holding his baby son Hayden.

Commenting on the clip, she commented: 'Okay, seriously, if that doesn't make your ovaries burn... I don't know, I want a number four so bad.

Criticism: Vanessa Lachey has been blasted by fans for her 'weird baby obsession' after questioning contestants about their pregnancy plans on the Love Is Blind live reunion show on Monday

'Okay, I need to know, who's is going to give me our first Love Is Blind baby? I don't wanna ask if you're trying because that's TMI, obviously you all are intimate', she added.

First up, Vanessa asked fan favourites Brett and Tiffany Brown about their future plans for children, which was evidently not something they'd been expecting.

'What are you guys thinking on the baby timeline?' Vanessa asked, to which Tiffany explained they're just enjoying travelling and being together.

Brett then joked, 'I was just about to make a joke, like Jesus, ya'll really put the baby pressure... My god.'

Determined to stay on that line of questioning, Vanessa then asked Brett - who is a shoe designer - 'But how cute are baby Air Force 1s going to be?'.

Keeping things vague, Brett replied: 'When baby Brown gets here, they'll be fly'.

Contestant Chelsea then admitted that when she entered the experiment, her 'biological clock was ticking', but now she's going to 'step back' and let it happen naturally, echoing Tiffany's sentiments.

When the discussion moved towards Bliss and Zack, Bliss happily admitted 'she can't wait' to have Zack's babies  but no time soon.

Awkward: Though the show's first ever live reunion got off to a rocky start - being released 75 minutes after it was scheduled - what has stuck out in viewers' minds more was Vanessa's 'cringeworthy pressuring' of the contestants to procreate

She said: 'Okay, I need to know, who's is going to give me our first Love Is Blind baby? I don't wanna ask if you're trying because that's TMI, obviously you all are intimate'

Awkward: First up, Vanessa asked fan favourites Brett and Tiffany Brown about their future plans for children, which was evidently not something they'd been expecting

Next up: Contestant Chelsea then admitted that when she entered the experiment, her 'biological clock was ticking', but now she's going to 'step back' and let it happen naturally, echoing Tiffany's sentiments

Firing line: When the discussion moved towards Bliss and Zack, Vanessa said: 'You're not pregnant are you? Who is going to have the first Love Is Blind baby?'

Taking to Twitter after the special aired, fans were left extremely uncomfortable by Vanessa's insistence - even calling for her to be sacked.

One said: 'Besides the delay, the worst part of the Love Is Blind reunion was Vanessa Lachey pressuring all of the couples to have babies.

'Everyone knows to be delicate around motherhood & fertility issues except Vanessa Lachey on LIVE national TV apparently.'

Another tweeted, 'The push on babies on the Love is Blind reunion was kind of cringe.

'They have no idea if some of them struggle with fertility, if some had already dealt with a miscarriage they aren't ready to talk about, etc.'

A third added: 'Reasons to get rid of Vanessa Lachey: 1. Her weird baby obsession 2. Gushing over Jackie and Josh 3. Not dragging Jackie for keeping the ring. #TeamMarshall 4. No heat for Shelby? (Unless I missed this part having to watch live stream on TIKTOK.)'

Echoing, a fourth said: '1. This reunion was NOT worth the wait 2. Netflix you should be EMBARRASSED 3. Nick & Vanessa Lachey please let this be the last season you host b/c you both are terrible 4. How was Irina there but Jackie wasnt?! 5. Bartise was not necessary'.

One fan even took it to the next level, creating a Change.org petition to fire Vanessa.

One tweet that has received over 17,000 likes suggested that the married couple should be replaced by Lauren Speed and Cameron Hamilton  a fan favourite couple that got married in Season 1.

Not happy: Fans were perplexed by Vanessa's line of questioning given that not all women are able to have children

After drawing the ire from fans after the 'live' Love is Blind Season 4 reunion special was delayed 75 minutes, fans finally got the updates and closure they needed.

The theme of the special - if any - seemed to revolve around second chances, revealing that Zach Goytowski marrying Bliss Poureetezadi, after breaking up with Irina Solomonovay.

Jackelina 'Jackie' Bonds also started a relationship with Josh Demas after splitting with fiancee Marshall Glaze, who said he felt 'slighted' that the couple skipped the reunion, instead offering an updated in a pre-taped interview with host Vanessa Lachey.

Zack also called out Irina for going on the show only so she could be famous during the reunion.

The reunion itself was still largely upstaged by the technical difficulties that left fans fuming after it was filmed and released 75 minutes after it was supposed to air live.

The special kicked off with the pre-taped interview with Jackie, 31, and Josh, 27, revealing they're currently living together.

'We're taking our time with everything. You know what I mean? Life comes at you fast and we don't want to rush anything. I think sometimes, you can rush love. We live together now. We got a dog. We got a fish. I'm a girl dad!' Josh said in the interview.

Jackie added, 'I have grown within the last year. That person that I've seen was a totally different Jackie, to be honest.'

She also clarified, 'I broke up with Marshall before I saw Josh at the coffee shop. It looks like I'm a cheater and I am not a cheater.'

Closure: After drawing the ire from fans after the 'live' Love is Blind Season 4 reunion special was delayed 75 minutes, fans finally got the updates and closure they needed

She also took to Instagram last week to clarify she broke up with Marshall first, with the show making it seem like her first date with Josh was during her wedding dress fitting.

'I am wearing different clothes, my hair is styled different and at the end of the video I say 'I DON'T KNOW IF I AM GOING TO BE WITH JOSH,"' Jackie said on IG.

'I am not sure what the reason is for playing the coffee shop date before the break up but to restate Marshall and I were broken up before Josh and I had our coffee shop date,' she added.

When co-host Vanessa asked how things deteriorated with Josh, she said it happened when they were applying for their marriage license.

'It happened off-camera when we were filling out the marriage certificate. He had called me a derogatory name and we fought about it and he left for three days,' she said.

'I think what it was was it was a bad joke. It was one of those where we were joking, but it just came off as bad,' she explained.

Marshall appeared at the reunion, claiming, 'there's a difference between joking with someone and being able to move on from it if there is a pressure point.'

He admitted that he told Jackie she has a 'strong jawline' and she 'could've been a man for all I know,' though he admitted that wasn't the joke Jackie was referring to.

He also confirmed that Jackie still had the engagement ring, and, after breaking up with Jackie, he connected with Kacia Clark, though that didn't work out either, adding he wanted to put the, 'horrible experience' he had on the show behind him, adding he felt 'slighted' that Jackie and Josh didn't show up.

'For the second time in this experience, I have been slighted. One at the altar and now at the reunion,' adding he still wants to, 'move on from this.'

Irina: Zack also called out Irina (right) for going on the show only so she could be famous during the reunion

Jackie: The special kicked off with the pre-taped interview with Jackie, 31, and Josh, 27, revealing they're currently living together

Josh: 'We're taking our time with everything. You know what I mean? Life comes at you fast and we don't want to rush anything. I think sometimes, you can rush love. We live together now. We got a dog. We got a fish. I'm a girl dad!' Josh said in the interview

'There's a lot that's going into this and I'm just going to direct this to the public. At this point, this is not about Jackie and Marshall anymore. Let that be bygones. Let them move on, let me move on and just forget it. Jackie and Josh are happy. She's happy. I'm happy. Let it die,' he said.

Jackie said she did have only one regret from her experience on Love is Blind Season 4.

'What I did was right for me. I was simple. Well, I was simple in the breakup, but maybe I wasn't as simple in the relationship," she said. "But I don't have no regrets. The only regret I do have is I didn't have that final conversation with Josh in the pods. That's the only thing I regret,' she said.

Irina got choked up when trying to apologize to Zack and to the show's viewers, telling the audience she 'needs a minute' which caused some to burst out into laughter.

'I know that's not the person that I want to be and that I'm not,' Irina said, admitted she treated Zack, 'like s---.'

Zack also came face-to-face with his ex Irina, and he didn't pull any punches during the special.

'You did a lot of things, um, that hurt a lot of people, including me, and I mean, you only see 10 percent of it on the camera. There was so much stuff that happened that was just unbelievable,' Zack, 32, began.

'If we're real, you went on this show to get famous. But look, I forgive you. I genuinely, 100 percent forgive you, Irina,' he said to cheers from the audience.

'I really don't hold anything against you. There's so many people that want to attack the people, the cast on this show. And you have no idea, like, everybody who made a mistake on this show, it has been punishment enough for the entire world to see them at their worst,' he continued.

'Like trust me, Irina, Micah [Lussier], everybody here who did something. We all did something stupid. And so I 100 percent forgive you Irina," he added.

'My last comment, I stand on that. I have receipts. The only receipts I think the world should see are the ones I posted on my Instagram today. And with that said, I really believe Irina that you will become an amazing person one day. I believe that and I forgive you for what happened and I hope the world does too,' he said.

Zack's new wife Bliss added, 'I do too and we talked. I really don't hold anything against you,' though she did bring up something harmful Irina said.

Marshall: Marshall appeared at the reunion, claiming, 'there's a difference between joking with someone and being able to move on from it if there is a pressure point

Admitted: He admitted that he told Jackie she has a 'strong jawline' and she 'could've been a man for all I know,' though he admitted that wasn't the joke Jackie was referring to

'You did tell me when you landed in Mexico that I dodged a bullet while you also texted him, "I'm so sorry, let's talk. I hope something happens with you and Bliss,"' Bliss, 33, said.

'I think you can have panic attacks and you can have trouble with mental illness and all of that. That's totally valid. But then you're turning around and you're doing malicious things and you're acting in really cruel ways. It's hard to reconcile those two things,' she added

Irina responded, 'That was completely out of line for me to say. Nothing I did was okay, the way I was acting, the way I was talking.'

Irina also admitted that she was flirting with her BFF Micah Lussier's fiance Paul Peden, with Micah saying she always stuck up for her.

'I always was like, "That's my b***h. She's a good person." I never left your side. Was I the big fool here that missed your red flags or was it just a misunderstanding?' Micah asked.

'I do admit to doing that. That's so sneaky. Me seeing Paul, honestly, I was way more attracted to him than I was to Zack,' Irina admitted.

It was also confirmed at the reunion that Micah and Paul continued dating even after Paul declined an engagement at the altar, though Micah said she would have said yes.

'I knew that I was going to say yes,' Micah said through tears, adding, 'And I didn't want to spend the rest of our life wondering if he was to say yes wondering if he did it not to embarrass me or I needed to know he did it for him.'

Paul, however, admitted that he made the right decision by not marrying Micah during the finale.

'Doing things like making decisions based on other people. I really do think that you should own your truth and that serves both people in a relationship,' he said.

'So I don't think that I would have, but also I don't know what that feels like. You know, to have your partner choosing you, saying yes, affirming you,' he said.

Irina: Irina got choked up when trying to apologize to Zack and to the show's viewers, telling the audience she 'needs a minute' which caused some to burst out into laughter

Continued: It was also confirmed at the reunion that Micah and Paul continued dating even after Paul declined an engagement at the altar, though Micah said she would have said yes

Terrible: Micah said that made her feel, 'terrible,' adding, 'I felt like it was the worst thing that could be said. I think because, you know, you would've been a great mom and he knew how important it was for me to be a mom. It's something that I've talked about since the pods, how important having family was to me'

'I don't know what that feels like, so I don't know. I can't say with a hundred percent certainty that it wouldn't have changed my answer,' he clarified.

Paul also addressed a rather controversial comment when he said he couldn't see Micah as a mother.

'I think I phrased that really unfairly towards her. I don't think that it was a reflection of what she was capable of or anything like that,' he admitted.

'I think that the better way to phrase that would've been, I can't see us as parents because I couldn't envision myself as she pointed out  couldn't envision myself as a father just as much as I couldn't see in her,' he admitted.

Micah said that made her feel, 'terrible,' adding, 'I felt like it was the worst thing that could be said. I think because, you know, you would've been a great mom and he knew how important it was for me to be a mom. It's something that I've talked about since the pods, how important having family was to me.'

They confirmed they continued to date after declining an engagement at the altar though it ended, 'pretty quickly' after Paul visited Micah in Arizona.
Married At First Sight stars Johnny and Kerry Balbuziente are only one of seven couples that got legally married after finishing the show.

But it almost wasn't to be for the happy couple, as Johnny has shockingly revealed that he was originally supposed to be paired with another bride.

The 32-year-old recently told Yahoo Lifestyle that his original bride on the show pulled out at the last minute.

So, the producers and match-makers scrambled to find him a new match, which ended up being Kerry, 32, and the pair entered the experiment as intruders.

'I had flown into Sydney early, and the girl that I was supposed to be matched with dropped out the night before the bucks party,' he said.

Married At First Sight stars Johnny and Kerry Balbuziente (pictured) are only one of seven couples that got legally married after finishing the show

Instead of flying back to his home in Brisbane, he stayed in Sydney for five weeks and waited for his new bride.

Kerry explained that if Johnny's original match hadn't have pulled out, she would've never even gotten on the show.

'I got a phone call out of the blue on a Tuesday in September and it was like, "Youre on but youve got to go by Saturday,"' she said.

It almost wasn't to be for the happy couple, as Johnny has shockingly revealed that he was originally supposed to be paired with another bride

Johnny said he believes it's 'fate' that his original match didn't work out, and that he's 'eternally grateful' that he met his wife Kerry

'So I had to pack up my life and hand over my full-time job and all of that.'

Johnny said he believes it's 'fate' that his original match didn't work out, and that he's 'eternally grateful' that he met his wife Kerry.

He added that they're incredibly lucky to have found love on the reality show as the 'track record is terrible'.

The happy couple got married in January of this year after announcing their engagement in July 2022.

The happy couple got married in January of this year after announcing their engagement in July 2022

Some familiar faces attended their beautiful ceremony in January of this year

Sharing a carousel of their wedding day on Instagram, which was set in a gorgeous venue by the water, Johnny wrote: 'Best day of my life. I married the love of my life.

'Honey and the Bee - you and me.'

Last July, the pair bought their first home together in Brisbane for an estimated $1.3million.

The family-sized Queenslander sits on a 607sqm block and features three bedrooms and two bathrooms.
Tommy Little has designed a new limited-edition hoodie with charity HoMie, which aims to help young people in Australia that are facing homelessness.

And while the comedian has admitted that the $129 hoodies are expensive, he believes it's worth it as all profits go to youths facing homelessness.

Also, for the first 3,000 sold a homeless young person will receive their own hoodie.

Speaking on The Project about his limited edition hoodie, he said: 'They are a little bit expensive I'll be honest with you, but there's a very good reason why.

'Because Champion [Sports] have come on board and they've said for the first 3,000 that we sell, they will donate a hoodie to a young person experiencing homelessness in the services involved.

Tommy Little (pictured) has designed a new limited-edition hoodie with charity HoMie, which aims to help young people in Australia that are facing homelessness

'So you are essentially buying two hoodies, for yourself and one of your young mates out there.'

The TV and radio personality has been an ambassador for the non-profit for several years, and on Tuesday announced that his limited edition hoodies are now available for pre-order on the charity's website.

All profits from the hoodies will go to the Melbourne-based charity, and they are available in six different colours.

And while the comedian has admitted that the $129 hoodies are expensive, he believes it's worth it as all profits go to youths facing homelessness

Posting a photo of himself in the black design, the radio presenter wrote: 'This years #hoodiesforhomelessnes campaign is now live!

'Ive designed a limited edition hoodie with HoMie and all the profits go to help young Australians doing it tough.

'1 in 4 Australians currently experiencing homelessness are aged between just 12 and 24 years old.

'All the profits raised from these hoodies will go towards providing these young people a pathway out of homelessness.

'For each hoodie bought one will also be donated from @championausnz to a young person currently experiencing homelessness.'

The TV and radio personality has been an ambassador for the non-profit for several years, and on Tuesday announced that his limited edition hoodie are now available for pre-order to on the charity's website

'So head to homie.com.au and grab yourself one before they disappear. You beautiful people.'

The hoodie was launched as part of Youth Homelessness Matters Day, which takes place on April 19.

Speaking about the day, HoMie co-founder and creative director Marcus Crook said: 'Youth Homelessness Matters Day brings to light an uncomfortable truth; young people are disproportionately affected by homelessness throughout Australia.

'Were so grateful for the continued support of our long time friends Tommy Little and Champion and their involvement in this years campaign. Youth homelessness is a crisis situation. We need to get the word out there and affect change. Together, we can.'
Tracey Emin shared an emotional life update on Instagram on Tuesday saying she has started swimming again after her bladder cancer battle.

The artist, 59, posed for a quick selfie out of the water wearing a black bikini top and a couple of gold and silver necklaces.

She wrote to her 143,000 followers: 'So happy I started swimming again. I felt under the weather lately. Got to snap myself out of it.

Tracey also revealed exciting news as she will be back with a new show in Italy in May.

She said: 'Im preparing for my show in Rome that opens on 13th May at Lorcan ONeill gallery. My first show in Rome for four years. In fact my first body of paintings since having cancer. This week I cried.'

'This week I cried': Artist Tracey Emin, 59, updated her followers on Instagram on Tuesday that she is back to swimming and will showcase her first body of paintings since having cancer

Survivor: In September, Tracey revealed she had finally received the 'all clear' after her battle against bladder cancer, with an Instagram post

The post was since flooded with messages of support, wishing Tracey the best with her health and career.

One person wrote: 'Congratulations, its an incredible feeling finding your creativity again after having cancer. You almost cant imagine being well again after going through six months of chemo, radiation and multiple surgeries.

'After two years of treatment for breast cancer, I am creating again too! Its like being reborn. I wish you every happiness and so much joy and success for your new show in Rome!'

A Spanish follower added: 'Thank you for sharing. Allowing your vulnerabilities to show is art in itself. Sending love from Spain.'

In September, Tracey revealed she had finally received the 'all clear' after her battle against bladder cancer, with an Instagram post.

The artist shared a picture of herself in her hospital gown about to go for her CT scans alongside a lengthy caption where she admitted she was 'very happy' and glad to be alive.

She found she had a tumour in her bladder in June 2020 and was suffering with very aggressive squamous cell cancer, which surgeons feared would kill her in months if it spread to her lymph nodes.

She then underwent surgery to remove many of her reproductive organs, parts of her intestines and lymph nodes as well as being fitted with a stoma bag.

Fantastic news: The artist shared a picture of herself in her hospital gown about to go for her CT scans alongside a lengthy caption where she admitted she was glad to be alive

Feeling happy: She found she had a tumour in her bladder in June 2020 and was suffering with very aggressive squamous cell cancer, which surgeons feared would kill her in months if it spread to her lymph nodes

Tracey announced she was over two years sober and confessed she missed her removed organs, but declared: 'There's so much more to me than a hole'.

She wrote: 'ALL CLEAR. At the hospital about to have my CT scans and see my Surgeon.

'It doesn't mater how cool and stoic I am, inside I'm filled with worry. This time because I'm happy, this time because I feel well... I'm scared to say I'm happy. But I am, my life is so much better, I'm stronger and clearer.

'I've been sober for 27 months and each day life becomes more interesting and I find myself caring and taking more interest in everything that's around me.
Dhakota Williams is known for incredible figure - and she loves to flaunt it.

The 21-year-old posted a series of images to Instagram on Tuesday in which she was posing in a very revealing bodysuit.

The gangland heiress-turned-OnlyFans star worked her angles in the outfit, which featured sheer panels and peekaboo fishnet cutouts that flaunted some skin.

Clinging skintight to her physique, the bodysuit, which was decorated with an animal print, left little to the imagination.

Dhakota covered her modesty with a glittering handbag, holding it in front of her crotch.

Dhakota Williams (pictured) is known for incredible figure - and she loves to flaunt it

The 21-year-old posted a series of images to Instagram on Tuesday in which she was posing in a very revealing bodysuit

The gangland heiress-turned-OnlyFans star worked her angles in the outfit, which featured sheer panels and peekaboo fishnet cutouts that flaunted some skin

She opted for a glamorous makeup look for the outing with a nude lipstick and wore her brunette locks in a half-up do.

'Still your best,' she wrote in the caption alongside the images, adding a black heart emoji.

Dhakota joined OnlyFans in August and her mother Roberta soon followed.

The pair recently discussed their foray into the sex industry with The Daily Telegraph, revealing they had 'no choice' due to their infamous history.

Dhakota covered her modesty with a glittering handbag, holding it in front of her crotch

Clinging skintight to her physique, the bodysuit, which was decorated with an animal print, left little to the imagination

She opted for a glamorous makeup look for the outing with a nude lipstick and wore her brunette locks in a half-up do

'Still your best,' she wrote in the caption alongside the images, adding a black heart emoji

'I can't get a normal job like anyone else,' Roberta told the publication.

Meanwhile, Dhakota said she'd been thinking about joining for some time before finally pulling the trigger.

'Mum gave me the courage to do it. There is no shame in owning your femininity,' she declared.

Dhakota was nine years old when her father, drug kingpin Carl, was bludgeoned to death at Barwon Prison by fellow inmate Matthew Charles Johnson in 2010.
Annie Kilner treated her fans to a slew of sizzling bikini snaps as she enjoyed a girls' getaway with her pals.

The WAG, 31, took to Instagram on Tuesday to share a slew of pictures from her Dubai getaway, including one clad in a tiny striped bikini and matching mini skirt.

Another striking shot saw the mother-of-three stare sultrily down the lens while wearing a skimpy blue two piece with sheer panels.

Annie has not been joined by her husband Kyle Walker on the holiday, who has been hard at work playing with Manchester City.

Kyle has hit the headlines again recently after he faced a police probe for allegedly flashing and kissing another woman in a Vodka Revolution branch.

Fun in the sun: Annie Kilner treated her fans to a slew of sizzling bikini snaps on Tuesday as she enjoyed a girls' getaway with her pals

Stunning: The WAG, 31, took to Instagram on Tuesday to share a slew of pictures from her Dubai getaway, including one wearing a skimpy blue two piece with sheer panels

While the state of Kyle and Annie's relationship was called into question, they shared an apparent show of solidarity when Kyle commented a heart emoji under one of Annie's posts.

It emerged earlier this month that Manchester City defender Kyle will not face criminal charges by police following their probe into an alleged incident at a Wilmslow bar.

The England star, however, has been punished with an out of court disposal, with the investigation now closed.

Following a report in The Sun, Cheshire Police said it was aware of a video circulating on social media of an alleged incident in Wilmslow earlier this month.

The newspaper accused Walker of indecent exposure but there was no mention of indecent exposure in a police statement.

Police have now conducted their investigation and have not formally charged or cautioned the England international.

An out of court disposal is a non-statutory order and therefore does not form as part of a criminal record.

A police spokesman said: On Wednesday 8 March, Cheshire Constabulary was made aware of a video circulating on social media in relation to an alleged incident at a bar in the Wilmslow area.'

Girls' trip: Annie has been enjoying a getaway with her pals Phoebe Hilton and Maxine O'brien

Family fun: Annie and Kyle have three sons together, Roman, ten, Riaan, six, and Reign, four

Loved-up: Annie shared a sizzling selfie on Sunday under which Kyle added a heart emoji - in an apparent show of their solidarity

'Officers have now concluded their enquiries which included speaking to those directly involved.

'A 32-year-old man from Prestbury voluntarily attended a police station for questioning on 16 March.

He has been dealt with by an out of court disposal and the matter is now closed.

Annie's plight with her marriage was not her only trouble last month, as she was also locked in a feud with Rebekah Vardy while the Kyle situation raged on.

Rebekah reportedly branded Annie 'weak and miserable' in a furious text message sent shortly after the news came out - leading to a spat between the pair.
Former Made In Chelsea star Cheska Hull says she 'lost her life' while starring on the reality show.

The reality star turned PR, 37, shot to fame on the E4 show back in 2011 and was part of the original cast alongside the likes of Ollie Locke and Binky Felstead before her shock exit in 2014.

Looking back on her time on the series, Cheska recalls struggling with fame, loneliness and trolling during her three-year stint, telling how she 'couldnt go anywhere without people saying horrible things.'

Though she seemingly enjoyed a fun and A-list lifestyle lifestyle among the posh Chelsea set, in reality, living in the capital left Cheska 'depressed and struggling', with the star forced to leave London for the sake of her mental health.

In a new interview with Closer magazine, Cheska opens up about her time on the show in which she felt 'alone' and was 'typecast', while detailing that she's now happier than ever living in her blended family.

Candid: Former Made In Chelsea star Francesca Hull has revealed that she 'lost her life' while starring on the reality show

Fame: The reality star turned PR, 37, shot to fame on the E4 show back in 2011 and was part of the original cast alongside the likes of Ollie Locke and Binky Felstead before her shock exit in 2014

Tough: Looking back on her time on the show, Cheska (L) recalls struggling with fame, loneliness and trolling during her three-year stint, telling how she 'couldnt go anywhere without people saying horrible things'

She said of her time on the show: 'Id lost my life. I couldnt go anywhere without people saying horrible things. It was all-encompassing, but there was no one to talk to about it. I just felt very alone.

'I had a long-term boyfriend while I was on Made In Chelsea, but they always made out I was single. Youre playing a role, as much as its not scripted. They will typecast you: Binky is very much the girl next door. Ollie is the gay best friend. I was kind of the single Bridget Jones, even though I wasnt single. Its meant to be real, but then you cant show your real sides.'

The former TV star went on to reveal that when she and her pals first started on the show, they had 'no idea what we were doing', with Cheska even having to set up Binky on social media following the first episode.

While she happily lives her live in Devon with son Charlie, five, boyfriend Damian Cook and his two teenage daughters, life wasn't always so idyllic for Cheska while she lived in her native London.

Speaking candidly, Cheska told how she was gripped with depression and even struggled to get out of bed, revealing that she had no choice but to say goodbye to London to save herself.

She said: 'Leaving London was something I knew I had to do, deep down inside. I was very depressed and struggling. Everything became difficult  getting out of bed in the morning, saying yes to social engagements, being with friends. I knew in order to get my mental health back on trackand to be me again  I had to leave.'

She added that though starting her life again was 'a really tough thing to do' and left her with the feeling of failure, looking back she's glad that she took the leap and is 'proud' of herself for doing so.

These days, the now brunette beauty is happier than ever, having recently purchased a home with Damian, whom she met last year on the school run.

Struggle: Though she seemingly enjoyed a fun and A-list lifestyle lifestyle among the posh Chelsea set, in reality, living in the capital left Cheska 'depressed and struggling', with the star forced to leave London for the sake of her mental health

Difficult period: Cheska explained: 'It was all-encompassing, but there was no one to talk to about it. I just felt very alone' (pictured with boyfriend Damian Cook)

Beginning: The former TV star went on to reveal that when she and her pals first started on the show, they had 'no idea what we were doing', with Cheska even having to set up Binky on social media following the first episode (pictured together in 2011)

New life: Having gone from a single mum to a household brimming with love and children, Cheska joked that they're like the 'Von Trapp family', before insisting that she's 'never been happier'

On her low-key lifestyle on the coast, Cheska says her life is 'so different' from her past, but is equally 'amazing'.

And she credits her move down south to her family as she remarked that she 'probably wouldnt have my son today' if she hadn't of left.

Having gone from a single mum to a household brimming with love and children, Cheska joked that they're like the 'Von Trapp family', before insisting that she's 'never been happier.'
Pregnant Lindsay Lohan said goodbye to New York City on Tuesday morning.

The 36-year-old Mean Girls actress was spotted at a New York airport as she concealed her baby bump with an oversized camel beige zip-up jacket from Louis Vuitton.

The Falling For Christmas star added dark leggings, Ray-Ban aviator sunglasses, a black Chanel purse and a mask as her red hair was worn down.

The TV and film star was with her husband Bader Shammas who stayed close to her side.

The former friend of Britney Spears and Paris Hilton had been in New York City to celebrate her baby shower. New York is where her family members as well as her childhood friends live as she she grew up on Long Island.

Hiding her tummy: Pregnant Lindsay Lohan said goodbye to New York City on Tuesday morning. The 36-year-old Mean Girls actress was spotted at a New York airport as she concealed her baby bump with an oversized camel beige zip-up jacket

Fun: The former friend of Britney Spears and Paris Hilton had been in New York City to celebrating her baby shower. New York has many longtime friends as well as her family in the state as she grew up on Long Island. Seen with sister Aliana

This comes after a source shared with UsWeekly that the former wild child of Hollywood 'loves' being pregnant.

A source noted that she is 'happier' than she has ever been since discovering that she is to become a mother.

As far as her baby shower, she celebrated with family and friends at a party over the weekend.

'She's the happiest when she's with her closest friends and family. She is rarely in town for long, so friends and family wanted to celebrate.

'It was very private  just a handful of close friends and family having brunch in honor of Lindsay's pregnancy.'

The insider went on to hint to the outlet that a 'bigger' celebration for the Parent Trap star could be set to take place where she lives in Dubai.

Her man by her side: The TV and film star was with her husband Bader Shammas who stayed close to her side. He had on a green jacket over a black shirt and faded jeans

Maternity chic: The acclaimed actress added dark leggings, sunglasses and a mask as her red hair was worn down. He went Euro-casual with a green jacket over a black shirt with pale jeans and white tennies

Such a designer queen: And Lohan had a black Chanel purse over her shoulder

While in Manhattan she spent her time with her family looking for clothes for both herself and the baby.

The source added: 'During the short trip to New York, she also spent some quality time shopping with her siblings for baby clothes and cool and stylish maternity clothes.'

Lindsay first announced her pregnancy in March with an Instagram post featuring a white baby onesie before a representative for the Freaky Friday star explained that she and her husband are both excited about the 'next chapter' in their lives.

Happy time in her life: This comes after a source shared with UsWeekly that the former wild child of Hollywood 'loves' being pregnant. A source noted that she is 'happier' than she has ever been since discovering that she is to become a mother

A rep for the couple told DailyMail.com: 'We are very excited for our new family member to arrive and we are looking forward to this next chapter of our lives!'

The loved-up duo are also looking forward to the challenge of parenthood.

They said: 'We are beyond happy for this blessing in our lives and we cannot wait to become parents.'
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Kim Kardashian said she thinks it is an 'honor' to be able to spend time with prison inmates.

The 42-year-old reality star paid a visit to Los Angeles County's California State Prison in Lancaster - which is about an hour drive north of Beverly Hills - on Monday that was followed by a lunch at a restaurant.

The SKIMS founder - who was recently seen in Poland - was with her younger sister Khloe, 38.

Their visit was part of REFORM Alliance's Future Shapers Advisory Council and Kim explained that she wants to use her celebrity platform to 'change the lives' of those behind bars.

Following the visit, she said: 'It's always an honor to be able to visit the men and women living behind our prison walls.

'Hearing the stories of people trapped in the prison system is what drives my commitment to advocate for reform and find ways to leverage my platform to help change lives and laws.'

Working hard: Kim Kardashian thinks it is an 'honor' to be able to spend time with prison inmates. The 42-year-old reality star paid a visit to Los Angeles County's California State Prison on Monday; seen at lunch at a restaurant after the visit

Koko too: The SKIMS founder was with her younger sister Khloe, 38, who also wore all black

With inmates: Before their sit down lunch, Kim posed with the inmates inside the Los Angeles County state prison

The Kardashians star went on to add that she was 'thrilled' to be able to bring the council - which was established in 2018 by rapper Meek Mill, alongside individuals that include Michael Rubin and Jay-Z - into the prison.

She vowed to be building the next generation of leaders.

She said: 'Today I was especially thrilled to bring REFORM's Future Shapers Advisory Council inside the prison as well.

'We are building up the next generation of leaders and influencers who will join us in this fight.'

The designer - who has North, 10, Saint, seven, Chicago, six, and three-year-old Psalm with ex-husband Kanye West - is currently training to be a lawyer.

In January of this year she is said to have met criminals in 'solitary confinement' at the Pelican Bay State Prison in Crescent, California where she reportedly had discussions with them about their mental health.

At the time, a source told TMZ: 'Kim spent a day at Pelican Bay State Prison in Crescent, CA earlier this week.

'Her focus was to meet with inmates in solitary confinement, speaking with them in depth about the toll the lockup can have on their mental stability.'

Talk time: Their visit was part of REFORM Alliance's Future Shapers Advisory Council and Kim explained that she wants to use her celebrity platform to 'change the lives' of those behind bars

Learning is fun! Khloe took it all in as she listened to the experts on jail reform

Legal talk: Following the visit, she said: 'It's always an honor to be able to visit the men and women living behind our prison walls'; seen with Michael Rubin

Deep conversation: 'Hearing the stories of people trapped in the prison system is what drives my commitment to advocate for reform and find ways to leverage my platform to help change lives and laws,' she added; Rubin is seen center

Kween Koko: Khloe wore her sunglasses as she posed with a fan; she had on a leotard top and low slung slacks

Guests in attendance included Lil Baby; REFORM Alliance Chief Advocacy Officer Jessica Jackson, Co-Chair Michael Rubin, and Senior Director of Policy and Law Erin Haney; select council members Hannah Jackson, Rondo Bonilla, Sophia Kianni, Zander Moricz, Jack Wright, Dixie DAmelio, Heidi DAmelio, Marc DAmelio and Aidan Kohn-Murphy.

The group was also joined by California Assemblymember Matt Haney (D-San Francisco).

The group met with incarcerated men in the facility to learn about their stories, hear about the challenges that led them into the criminal justice system, and identify ways in which the system can better support safety and rehabilitation.

They also toured rehabilitative programming at the facility like the PAWS For Life program.

The inaugural Future Shapers Advisory Council cohort will unite some of the nations leading Gen-Z leaders and influencers to learn about the criminal justice system, create content that helps inform their audiences, and work with REFORM to drive awareness and action.

For the show: The afternoon meeting seemed to be filmed for her show The Kardashians

All black: Kim wore an all black outfit with her dark hair down and minimal makeup; Rubin had on black as well

These members include: Co-Chair Hannah Jackson, Co-Chair Rondo Bonilla, Charli DAmelio, Dixie DAmelio, Sophia Kianni, CJ Stroud, Zander Moricz, Jack Wright, Bryce Young, Jax Ajueny, and Aidan Kohn-Murphy. Additional members of the council will be added in the weeks to come.

REFORMs Future Shapers Advisory Council was established following an informative and inspiring Gen Z dinner hosted by REFORM co-chair and Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin and Kardashian in February to bring in the next generation of leaders in the criminal justice reform movement.

The group gathered at Rubins Los Angeles home and listened to multiple speakers share their experiences with the criminal justice system.

Kardashian shared with the Gen Zers that the best way to learn about the system to change it is to connect with the people who have been most impacted by it.

The prison visit is one of the cohorts first engagements as members of the council. Following the visit, the group debriefed over lunch.

Rubin wrote on Instagram, 'We visited Lancaster Prison (LAC) with this committed group of young leaders and members of REFORM's Future Shapers Advisory Council to hear firsthand from people in the system and learn about what we can do to improve it.

'This was an important step towards building up the next generation of leaders who will work with us to collectively reform and improve our supervision system and advocate for a fairer and more logical justice system.

'Thank you to @kimkardashian, @jessicajackson and @reform for building upon February's Gen Z dinner and continuing our efforts to transform probation and parole across the country.'

All together now: The group posed together in a special room at the Los Angeles County state prison

Group effort: REFORMs Future Shapers Advisory Council was established following an informative and inspiring Gen Z dinner hosted by REFORM co-chair and Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin and Kardashian in February to bring in the next generation of leaders in the criminal justice reform movement

Direct approach: Kim spoke directly to an elderly inmate who wore a cap while Khloe, right, also had a chat with an inmate
Ali Wong revealed that she is not a big fan of getting Asian food with non-Asian people amid reports of her rekindled relationship with Bill Hader.

The 40-year-old actress and comedian recently appeared on The Kelly Clarkson Show where in the spirit of her new show Beef she ranted about the thing she couldn't stand the most.

For the segment, the chat show host, also 40, hit a button then a prompt appeared on the screen behind them which read 'getting Asian food with non-Asian people.'

Ali did not looked pleased by the topic as she said: 'Oh my God are you kidding? It's the worst.'

Kelly shared a hearty laugh as she said: 'You are 100% talking about me.'

Beefing: Ali Wong revealed that she is not a big fan of getting Asian food with non-Asian people

Ali replied: 'We're never going to dim sum then.'

Dim sum is a large range of small Cantonese dishes that are traditionally enjoyed in restaurants for brunch as they are usually pushed around in a cart for patrons to grab and eat.

Ali began her rant by saying: 'When I was living in New York and a bunch of stand-up comics would be like, "take me to dim sum, I want to go to dim sum," and then we'd go to dim sum and theyd be like, "What is that? Ew! What is that? What is that?"

'And theyre basically asking, "why is that not a sandwich?" You asked me to take you here!'

'Also, with dim sum, its all pork and shrimp. Just eat it!'

Kelly said that she is a fan of pork but not of shrimp as she is allergic which Ali understood.

The Since You Been Gone hitmaker added: 'I will generally try anything.'

Ali responded: 'As long as youll try. But its mostly just all the questions, you know? Its more when people are squeamish.'

Knuckle crack: The 40-year-old actress and comedian recently appeared on The Kelly Clarkson Show where in the spirit of her new show Beef she ranted about the thing she couldn't stand the most

Ali did not looked pleased by the topic as she said: 'Oh my God are you kidding? It's the worst'

Kelly shared a hearty laugh as she said: 'You are 100% talking about me '

Ali began her rant by saying: 'When I was living in New York and a bunch of stand-up comics would be like, "take me to dim sum, I want to go to dim sum," and then we'd go to dim sum and theyd be like, "What is that? Ew! What is that? What is that?"

Ali concluded: 'As long as youll try. But its mostly just all the questions, you know? Its more when people are squeamish'

The talented actress currently stars in critically-acclaimed Netflix series Beef alongside Steven Yeun.

This comes amid reports that the Always Be My Maybe star has rekindled her romance with Barry star Bill Hader.

A rep for the 44-year-old actor confirmed to Page Six that Hader and Wong are dating again after a previous romance last autumn.

The Tulsa, Oklahoma native referred to his love interest indirectly in an interview with Collider published Sunday, as he mused about not having gone on a getaway in a decade.

'My girlfriend and I were just figuring out that I haven't had a vacation in 10 years,' The Barry leading man said. 'I went with her to San Francisco, but that doesn't really count.

'So, I'm going to have a vacation.'

The Emmy-winning actor and the Beef actress had been romantically linked last fall, insiders told the outlet, describing it as a 'rebound' relationship after both were coming off high-profile breakups.

Wong, 40, had divorced businessman Justin Hakuta after an eight-year marriage while Hader parted ways with actress Anna Kendrick, 37, after a year of dating.

The latest: This comes amid reports that the Always Be My Maybe star has rekindled her romance with Barry star Bill Hader as a rep for the actor confirmed they are dating again

The couple initially spent two months together, with an insider telling the outlet that it was an 'amicable' parting with both tied up with their jam-packed schedules.

'They're just super busy with things,' a source told Page Six. 'They're certainly friends.'

A separate source told the outlet that Hader and Wong were protective of their privacy in their initial romance, as their friends 'helped them protect the relationship in light of Ali's divorce.'

The source added, 'Only a small circle of A-list comedians know and everyone was thrilled about it.'

The outlet reported that they traveled to Wong's native San Francisco this past January.

Dailymail.com has reached out to reps for both Hader and Wong for comment.

The Emmy-winning actor (Pictured above in LA on Tuesday) and Wong had been romantically linked last fall
Ekin-Su Culculoglu has confirmed she has forgiven her boyfriend Davide Sanclimenti after accusing another woman of sleeping with him.

The Turkish beauty, 28, who won the show with beau Davide, also 28, last year, is said to have branded Harriet Wilson, 24, a 'f***ing s**g' over her suspected fling with the Italian hunk.

But it appears all is well once again with Ekin-Su and Davide as they appeared in an Instagram video together on Tuesday.

Davide shared a clip of himself trying on some new gym tops before Ekin-Su appeared and gave him a kiss.

Davide teased his girlfriend's arrival with the caption: 'Trying on gym tops and...' before she appeared to hand him a drink.

Couple: Ekin-Su Culculoglu has confirmed she has forgiven her boyfriend Davide Sanclimenti after accusing another woman of sleeping with him as they kissed in a new Instagram video

Clip: Davide shared a clip of himself trying on some new gym tops before Ekin-Su appeared and gave him a kiss

The pair looked loved-up as the wrapped their arms around each other, no doubt eager to let fans know they are still together.

According to The Sun on Sunday, Ekin-Su was said to have also called the model 'disgusting' and fumed 'Youre finished' in angry messages after allegedly finding texts from her on Davide's phone.

The publication reports that the Turkish TV star also lashed out at a second woman, Phoebe Wintle, after also reportedly discovering her texts on his mobile.

Ekin-Su's alleged outburst came after she returned from a trip to Belfast earlier this month and had feared that Davide had hooked up with Harriet and Phoebe.

In messages reportedly seen by The Sun on Sunday, Ekin-Su is said to have ranted: 'You f***ing s**g. Sleeping with my boyfriend! Disgusting. Why would you do that?

'You and Phoebe are gonna be shown to everyone slags. Pretending nothing happened. Just wait for it. You cow. Youre finished mate.'

A source is said to have told the publication that Harriet was 'taken aback' by the Instagram messages, adding: 'What makes it worse is that they knew each other before this all kicked off.

'Harriet used to keep an eye on Davide for Ekin-Su on his nights out in Manchester and report back to her.'

Accusations: Ekin-Su was said to have branded Harriet Wilson, 24, a f***ing s**g over her suspected fling with Davide

The couple headed off on a make-or-break trip to Amsterdam last week, and while Davide shared a snap of the beauty at breakfast, she failed to upload an image of him.

Earlier this month, Ekin was reportedly left furious after finding messages and pictures from two models on Davide' s phone.

The reality star is said to have been 'fuming and upset' as she suspected Davide had a romantic rendezvous with the pair, who are said to be regulars on the Manchester party scene.

Actress Ekin-Su allegedly messaged one of the girls to ask what had gone on after the reality star returned from a trip to Belfast.

Anger: According to The Sun on Sunday, Ekin-Su was said to have also called the model (pictured) 'disgusting' and fumed 'Youre finished' in angry messages after finding texts from her on Davide's phone

Letting rip: In messages reportedly seen by The Sun on Sunday, Ekin-Su is said to have ranted: 'You f***ing s**g. Sleeping with my boyfriend! Disgusting. Why would you do that?'

Furious: The publication reports that the Turkish TV star lashed out at a second woman, Phoebe Wintle (pictured), after also discovering her texts on his mobile

Suspicious mind: Ekin-Su's alleged outburst came after she returned from a trip to Belfast earlier this month and had feared that Davide had hooked up with Harriet and Phoebe

A source told The Sun: 'It all exploded last Sunday after she found messages on Davides phone discussing their time together.

'He had been messaging both of the girls and she suspected they had all met up one night.

'Ekin-Su contacted one of the girls to tell them she knew about things. She was furious and really upset.'

Television personality Ekin-Su posted a number of cryptic social media messages, including a tweet which appear to mock Harriet's Instagram snaps.

Unimpressed: Earlier this month, Ekin was reportedly left furious after finding messages and pictures from two models on Davide' s phone.

Suspicions: The reality star is said to have been 'fuming and upset' as she suspected Davide, 28, had a romantic rendezvous with the pair

The post, which has since been deleted, read: 'No man will ever take u seriously with just half naked pictures of u in a bikini and lingerie'.

While she also liked two posts from another user which mentioned 'disrespect' and the need for 'distance', according to the publication.

She also shared some words on Instagram which read: 'A girl can be just as sexy without showing some skin.'

The pair moved in together after winning Love Island last year but earlier this year were forced to dismiss claims their relationship was a showmance.
Minnie Driver and Lucy Boynton both put on very elegant displays as they sported 18th century ensembles for new biopic Chevalier.

The British-American actress, 53, sported an extravagant headpiece and a brunette wig in newly-released images from the upcoming film, slated for release on April 21.

Meanwhile, Bohemian Rhapsody star Lucy, 29, put on a glamorous display in a Georgian gown as she embodied the late Mary Antoinette, the late Queen of France.

Chevalier is based on the life of the titular French-Caribbean musician Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges, played by Kelvin Harrison Jr.

New images from the Stephen Williams-directed film showed Minnie portraying ballet dancer Marie-Madeleine Guimard, who was the star of the Paris Opera.

Performer: Minnie Driver both put on a elegant display as she embodied ballet dancer Marie-Madeleine Guimard for new biopic Chevalier

Elegant: Lucy Boynton, 29, put on a glamorous display in a Georgian gown as she embodied the late Mary Antoinette, the late Queen of France

Biographical film: Chevalier is based on the life of the titular French-Caribbean musician Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges, played by Kelvin Harrison Jr (pictured)

Minnie sported a pink satin gown embellished with gold detailing and a cape as she was seen gesturing out to an audience during a performance.

She sported a volumnious brunette wig adorned with floral detailing and gold spikes and accentuated her striking features with a vibrant touch of pink blusher.

The Good Will Hunting star is portraying French ballerina Marie-Madeleine, who dominated the Paris Opera for nearly 30 years and married poet Jean-Etienne Despreaux after her retirement in 1789.

Another image from the upcoming historical film showed Lucy embodying the late Mary Antoinette as she spoke with Kelvin's character Saint-Georges.

She looked elegant in a pink Georgian-style gown, featuring gold stitching and a volumnious skirt, which she wore with a peach wig.

Lucy accessorised her ensemble with a statement silver jewelled necklace as she was seen fixing Kelvin with a fierce stare.

Kelvin, who is playing the titular character in the film, sported a light blue three-piece suit as he put on a very dapper display.

Titular character: Saint-Georges (Kelvin is pictured playing him) conducted leading orchestras in Paris, while he was also an established fencer

Suave: One image from the film showed Kelvin sporting a light blue three-piece suit as he put on a very dapper display while walking with Samara Weaving and Alex Fizalan

Musician: Other images from the upcoming movie showed Kelvin on stage as Saint-Georges, showing off his talents with the violin as he performed with an orchestra

Saint-Georges was a composer in Marie Antoinette's court and she attended some of his concerts at the Hotel de Soubise before they had a falling out.

The violin player conducted leading orchestras in Paris, while he was also an established fencer.

Other images from the upcoming movie showed Kelvin on stage as Saint-Georges, showing off his talents with the violin as he performed with an orchestra.

The biographical drama follows the life of the French-Caribbean musician, who rises to fame through his musical prodigy and becomes acclaimed in Paris.

However, he is forced to battle with the racism of the 18th century regime and his complicated love life, before he falls out with Marie Antoinette.

The film premiered at the 2022 Toronto Film Festival and is being released in the US on April 21, before its UK premiere on June 9.

Speaking about the film, Samara Weaving recently revealed her co-star Kelvin almost quit during one of their love scenes.

She explained that Kelvin was very tired after he had to learn the violin and how to fence for the new movie.

Life: The biographical drama follows the life of the French-Caribbean musician, who rises to fame through his musical prodigy and becomes acclaimed in Paris

Awkward: Speaking about the film, Samara Weaving recently revealed her co-star Kelvin almost quit during one of their love scenes

'It was a Friday. We were in bed. I was super naked. We're making out and this is the time he decides to go, ''Ugh, I just want to quit",' she said.

'I couldn't believe it. I looked amazing,' she added.

Samara said Kelvin soon regretted his words, adding: 'He felt bad and then he was like, ''I'm so sorry, I'm just really tired'', so yeah, my lovemaking almost got Kelvin to quit.'

Samara is a rising star in Hollywood after starting her career on the long-running soap, Home and Away.
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Emily Ratajkowski has landed another high-profile modeling campaign this year as her career continues to soar.

The 31-year-old New York City resident - who has already worked for DKNY and Versace - is the face of the spring Marc Jacobs collection.

The 5ft7in My Body author - who recently showed fans what she would look like as a man - was seen posing with the ivory colored clothes and purses while in a studio.

And in one image the mother-of-one - she has son Sylvester Apollo Bear with her ex Sebastian Bear-McClard - went topless as she held onto a purse while smoldering for the camera while beautifully made up with plum makeup tones.

The collection is called the Marc Jacobs Monogram Collection and has been referred to as 'genderless' in a press release.

The siren at work: Emily Ratajkowski has landed another high-profile modeling campaign this year as her modeling career continues to soar. The 31-year-old New York City resident - who has already worked for DKNY and Versace - is the face of the spring Marc Jacobs collection

A 10 any day of the week: The 5ft7in My Body author was seen posing with the light colored clothes and purses while in a studio for the new photos

Ratajkowski - who has been romantically linked to Harry Styles this month - first walked for Marc Jacobs in the Spring 2016 Runway show.

And she has become a longtime collaborator and friend of the house, according to a press release shared on Tuesday.

The Monogram campaign was photographed by Harley Weir and styled by Danielle Emerson and will appear digitally and on billboards this month.

First introduced on Marc's Fall 2021 Runway, the Marc Jacobs Monogram print continues for the Spring season across a full assortment of ready-to-wear and accessories.

'The collection plays on the core values and aesthetics central to the brand; exploring genderless expression and celebrating individuality through effortlessly cool streetwear pieces emblazoned with the familiar chain-patterned MARC JACOBS lettering,' it said in the press release.

On Tuesday Emily shared photos of herself to her Instagram page where she was in front of the ads that were plastered on a green NYC wall.

Emily had on a brown leather jacket with silver buttons as well as dark jeans with olive green chaps that had a wide leg.

Ivory girl: And in one image the mother-of-one to son Sylvester Apollo Bear wore all off white

Bag lady: She held onto a purse as she smoldered for the camera while beautifully made up with plum makeup tones

The runway star finished the look off with white sneakers that were mostly covered.

Her hair was down and she had on black sunglasses that matched her petite black purse that hung on her shoulder.

In one image she struck a sexy pose with her bottom out as she puckered up for the camera.

The star of the post, however, was her brown and black dog Colombo who wore a red and black harness.

Her caption read, '@marcjacobs SS23 by @harleyweir (swipe to see Colombo).'

Pal Eiza Gonzalez hit the like button as Charli XCX wrote, 'Soooo goood !!!.'

This comes after Ratajkowski said she quit acting because she felt 'like a piece of meat'.

The Blurred Lines star was a child actress before shooting to fame as a model but she went back to her roots with a part in 2014 film Gone Girl opposite Ben Affleck but she bowed out of Hollywood a few years later and has now revealed she stepped away from films because she struggled to find any good parts and was left feeling mistreated.

On the street: On Tuesday Emily shared photos of herself to her Instagram page where she was in front of the ads that were plastered on a busy NYC wall. Emily had on a brown leather jacket with silver buttons as well as dark jeans with olive green chaps that had a wide leg

Sexy time as Colombo keeps watch: In one image she struck a sexy pose with her bottom out as she smiled for the camera

Dirty but daring: the ads were plastered all over a green wall that looked like it needed a bit of upkeep

In an interview with the Los Angeles Times, she explained: 'I didn't feel like, 'Oh, I'm an artist performing and this is my outlet.' I felt like a piece of meat who people were judging, saying, 'Does she have anything else other than her [breasts]?''

Emily's other film roles included parts in the 2015 Entourage movie, We Are Your Friends in 2015 and in 2018 comedy I Feel Pretty. Her final audition was for a part in Oscar-nominated movie Triangle of Sadness but she lost out on the role to the late Charlbi Dean Kriek, and Emily went on to sack the team of professionals she'd hired to help her make it in Hollywood.

The catwalk star explained she grew tired of making herself 'digestible to powerful men in Hollywood' and added of her team: 'I didn't trust them. I was like: 'I can handle receiving phone calls. I'm gonna make these decisions. None of you have my best interest at heart. And you all hate women'.'

In the interview, Emily also opened up about her love life - which headlines recently when she was pictured kissing former One Direction star Styles - and insisted she's not 'thinking about guys' right now.

She told the publication: 'There's a million insane, inaccurate things about my relationships [that are said ... I'm definitely still not thinking about guys. Although, yeah. You know, sometimes things just happen.'
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Gisele Bundchen brought the sizzle as she posed in a series of sexy looks on social media Tuesday.

The supermodel, 42, who often shares meditative thoughts with her fans, turned up the heat on social media in a a set of sultry snaps for the Brazilian jewelry company Vivara.

The cover girl donned several jaw dropping outfits, that showcased her toned and tanned form as she modeled rings, necklaces, bracelets and earrings from the designer's new Mother's Day campaign.

'Every mother is a stylish woman And @gisele can prove it,' Vivara wrote next to the photos on its Instagram page.

Gisele shares her children, Benjamin, 13, and Vivian, 10, with her ex-husband Tom Brady, 45, whom she divorced in October 2022.

Sizzle: Gisele Bundchen, 42, brought the sizzle as she posed in a series of sexy looks on social media for the Vivara jewelry Mother's Day campaign Tuesday. The model flaunted her toned tummy in a one shoulder black crop top and a matching high waist skirt

A star indeed: Here the runway icon flashed her star tattoo on her wrist as she gazed at the shutterbug

Mother's Day in Brazil in May 14, the same date the holiday will be celebrated in the US.

The doting mom, who cut back on her career after having her kids, confidently stared into the camera wearing a one shoulder black crop top and flaunting her toned tummy in a matching high waist skirt.

Her long blonde hair was styled in loose waves for each of the poses, and she wore natural looking makeup with a neutral pink lip.

She displayed a collection comprised of precious stones - amethyst, green tourmaline, pink tourmaline, iolite and diamonds - according to the company's website.

A second look showed her posing in a low cut, curve hugging little black dress with shoulder straps and an attached choker.

The runway veteran was dripping in diamonds and pearls surrounded by rose gold.

Another shot shows the nature loving Gisele modeling diamond encrusted pieces inspired by leaves and vines.

She looked alluring in an asymmetrical turtleneck dress, with ruching and a triangle shaped cutout at the torso.

Natural beauty: Gisele's long blonde hair was styled in loose waves for each of the poses, and she wore natural looking makeup with a neutral pink lip showcasing her inherent beauty

Fan reaction: Gisele's fans went crazy for the racy photo stack after it was released. 'Gisele gets more attention than the product itself,' wrote one. Other comments included, 'Wonderful,' and an enthusiastic 'Perfection is called Gisele'

Sexy mama: 'Every mother is a stylish woman And @gisele can prove it,' the Brazilian jeweler wrote next to the photos on its Instagram page

Toned triceps: The martial arts enthusiast showed off her muscular triceps as she reclined on one arm while caressing her firm leg exposed ty the frock's thigh high slit as she showcased gold and diamond pieces inspired by nature

The martial arts enthusiast showed off her muscular triceps as she reclined on one arm while caressing her firm leg exposed ty the frock's thigh high slit.

For her final look, the fashionista stepped into a racy white off the shoulder mini dress, held together with ties on the side, and a pair of black knee high boots.

The look was paired with items from the Polychrome collection, featuring vintage looking pieces made with diamonds, and precious stones such as lapis lazuli and malachite.

Gisele's fans went crazy for the photo stack after it was released. 'Gisele gets more attention than the product itself,' wrote one.

Other comments included, 'Wonderful,' and an enthusiastic 'Perfection is called Gisele.'
Bella Hadid is serious about being sober.

On Tuesday, she shared with fans that she has now gone six months without alcohol - by posting a screengrab of a sobriety counter-style app on her phone to celebrate the milestone.

The supermodel previously opened up about her feelings towards sobriety last month, to promote Kin Euphorics, a non-alcoholic beverage that she co-founded.

In an interview with InStyle, Bella admitted that she had started to lose control of herself after a heavy night of boozing.

'I have done my fair share of drinking,' she told the publication.

Inspiring: Bella Hadid reveals she's SIX MONTHS sober - after admitting she would lose control following boozy nights out (Pictured last October)

'I loved alcohol and it got to the point where even I started to, you know, cancel nights out that I felt like I wouldn't be able to control myself.'

She continued: 'I don't feel the need [to drink alcohol] because I know how it will affect me at 3 in the morning when I wake up with horrible anxiety thinking about that one thing I said five years ago when I graduated high school.'

'There's just this never-ending effect of, essentially, you know, pain and stress over those few drinks that didn't really do much, you know?'

Bella's openness about her sobriety comes years after growing research that the Boomer, Gen X and Millennial obsession with alcohol has not trickled down to the current crop of young adults, Gen Z, with many turning their back on liquor.

Making a change: The supermodel previously opened up about her feelings towards sobriety last month, to promote Kin Euphorics , a non-alcoholic beverage that she co-founded

There has also been recent studies into the dangers of young people drinking - as it provides them no health benefits while increasing their risk of injury and death.

Researchers at the University of Washington, in Seattle, found that people under 40 who drink are more likely to be injured in a car accident, suicide or murder than their peers that avoid alcohol.

According to most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) 66 percent of adults in the U.S. consume alcohol every year, and five percent are heavy drinkers.
Here Comes Honey Boo Boo star Mama June has reunited with daughter Anna 'Chickadee' Cardwell in the wake of her cancer diagnosis just weeks after it was reported that she was working on their bond to mend their strained relationship.

The 43-year-old mother-of-four - full name June Shannon - and her 28-year-old daughter seemed to have put their tough past behind them as they smiled for a selfie together in a hospital room.

Chickadee - who was diagnosed with stage 4 adrenal cancer - also posed for a selfie with a red medical cap on.

It was a family affair as they rooted Chickadee on as Mama June was also joined by husband Justin Stroud in addition to her daughters Alana 'Honey Boo Boo' Thompson and Lauren 'Pumpkin' Efird.

Chickadee's 10-year-old daughter Kaitlyn Elizabeth Clark could also be seen sitting on her mom's lap in a selfie.

Family first: Here Comes Honey Boo Boo star Mama June has reunited with daughter Anna 'Chickadee' Cardwell in the wake of her cancer diagnosis just weeks after it was reported that she was working on their bond to mend their strained relationship

Showing her strength: Chickadee - who was diagnosed with stage 4 adrenal cancer - also posed for a selfie with a red medical cap on

The group was later seen wearing yellow medical facemasks as they exited the hospital while putting on a united front.

Earlier this month it was reported by TMZ that June was nurturing the bond with her daughter although their relationship has been tense in recent years.

Insiders told the site that Mama June and Cardwell had begun mending their relationship about a year ago, but now they're a lot closer.

In 2021, Anna was candid about putting distance between herself and her mother when June began a romance with Mark McDaniel, who Anna said sexually assaulted her in adolescence.

Now the two are putting the past behind them as June is doing things like watching Anna's kids to help her cope with her new reality.

It was also noted that June has been accompanying Anna to her doctor's appointments as she 'wants her daughter to know she has a support system.'

Cardwell underwent her first chemotherapy session last month for stage 4 cancer in her liver, kidneys and lungs after being diagnosed in January with rare adrenal carcinoma.

Doctors are now monitoring her progress before making any decisions regarding further treatment.

United front: It was a family affair as they rooted Chickadee on as Mama June was also joined by husband Justin Stroud in addition to her daughters Alana 'Honey Boo Boo' Thompson and Lauren 'Pumpkin' Efird as Chickadee's 10-year-old daughter Kaitlyn Elizabeth Clark could also be seen sitting on her mom's lap in a selfie

Staying close: The group was later seen wearing yellow medical facemasks as they exited the hospital while putting on a united front

The eldest daughter of Mama June Shannon reported experiencing stomach pains before testing and getting diagnosed.

In recent images, Anna appeared with her eldest daughter, Kaitlyn, 10, as the rest of the family support her and remain hopeful.

The TLC alum also took photos of herself in the middle of treatment at a hospital in Georgia.

On Thursday, her 17-year-old sister, Alana 'Honey Boo Boo' Thompson, took to Instagram to confirm the devastating diagnosis by sharing an article published by TMZ.

Thompson wrote alongside a screenshot of the post: 'This is what I mean when I say you never truly know what somebody is going through at home. No matter how famous they are.'

'Yes I'm very famous, but normal s*** happens to me and my family and y'all need to realize that ASAP,' she added.

According to the American Cancer Society, adrenocortical carcinoma  also known as adrenal cortical cancer  is a disease that affects an estimated 200 Americans per year.

Sources close to the family report that they are all 'very hopeful' Cardwell will pull through and overcome the rare disease.

Coming through: Earlier this month it was reported by TMZ that June was nurturing the bond with her daughter although their relationship has been tense in recent years

Stepping up: It was reported that June is nurturing the bond with her daughter (pictured), although their relationship has been tense in recent years

Treatment: Anna underwent her first chemotherapy session last month; pictured with daughter, Kaitlyn, 10

Pushing forward: Anna first reported experiencing stomach aches before undergoing a series of tests that led to her diagnosis in January

Her family: Cardwell first appeared on TLC's 2009 series Toddlers and Tiaras alongside her now-teenaged sister  famously known as Honey Boo Boo  and their family

They also revealed that the family  as well as Anna's boyfriend Eldridge Toney  are all gathering together to take care of Anna and her two children  Kaitlyn and Kylee, 8.

Cardwell first appeared on TLC's 2009 series Toddlers and Tiaras alongside her now-teenaged sister Alana and their family.

In 2012, Alana received a spinoff series titled Here Comes Honey Boo Boo, which starred their entire family.

Cardwell welcomed daughter Kaitlyn in 2012 and married her then-boyfriend Michael Cardwell two years later. They called it quits in 2017.
Binky Felstead has shared the first photos of her newborn son as she gave an insight into his birth at the 6,625-a-night Lindo Wing.

The Made In Chelsea star, 32, welcomed the bundle of joy on Saturday at St Mary's Hospital in London, he is her second child with husband Max Darnton, 33.

Revealing the date and gender of their child, she penned: '15.04.23 at 10:45pm! Couldn't be happier he's just perfect. We now have three musketeers.'

In the sweet Instagram clip, Binky documented her labour as she was seen packing her overnight bag before heading to the hospital.

The reality TV personality then changed into a surgical gown, laid on a bed and prepared to push.

New addition: Binky Felstead, 32, has shared the first photos of her newborn son as she gave an insight into his birth at the 6,625-a-night Lindo Wing on Tuesday

Getting ready: The Made In Chelsea star, welcomed the bundle of joy on Saturday at St Mary's Hospital in London

In another snap, Max and Binky could be seen after their sons birth, with the newborn laid on her chest.

Earlier this week, her businessman beau took to Instagram to reveal the happy news as he shared a picture of his wife sat on a wooden fence with a picturesque background, captioning the snap: 'Champion' with heart eye and kiss face emojis.

Friends and fans took to the comments section to offer their congratulations for the happy news of the birth, with some making sure to send their well wishes to mum Binky.

On Saturday, Binky shared that she had gone into labour as she shared a picture from her hospital bed.

She had taken to Instagram to share that she had headed to the plush Lindo Wing at St Mary's Hospital in Paddington, central London, to give birth.

In the snap, Binky appeared to be in good spirits as she flashed a smile while lying in a hospital bed, showing off her baby bump.

Alongside the picture, she wrote: 'Here we gooooooooo.'

Adorable: Revealing the date and gender of their child, she penned: '15.04.23 at 10:45pm! Couldn't be happier he's just perfect. We now have three musketeers'

Parents: He is her second child with husband Max Darnton, 33, they are already parents to Wolfie, 22 months, and Binky shares a daughter, India, five, with her ex Josh Patterson

Here we go: The reality TV personality then could be seen dressed in a surgical gown as she laid on a bed and prepared to push

Cute: At the end of the video, Binky and Max posed for a family photo with their new born son before heading home

Luxury: Binky welcomed her third child at the Lindo Wing, where Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales, welcomed Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis

Earlier in the day, Binky had taken to her Instagram Stories to share a snap of her and Max holding hands as they sat in a car on their way to hospital.

Binky welcomed her third child at the Lindo Wing, where Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales, welcomed Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.

Prince William and Prince Harry were also both born at the private wing, which features luxury toiletries and personalised care.

With such high-profile patients, prices start at 5,900 for a one-night stay - rising to 6,275 for a deluxe package and even higher for the ward's suites.
From champagne afternoon tea and beauty treatments to specially selected linen and personal chefs, The Lindo Wing has it all.

Binky Felstead welcomed her third child at the exclusive maternity ward at St Mary's Hospital in London on Saturday, where Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales, welcomed Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.

Prince William and Prince Harry were also both born at the private wing, which features luxury toiletries and personalised care.

With such high-profile patients, prices start at 6,625 for a normal delivery and rising to 8,300 for a caesarean and even higher for deluxe room upgrades and suites - excluding consultant fees.

The Made In Chelsea star, 32, gave fans an insight into the birth as she documented the special moment in an Instagram video.

Congratulations: Binky Feltstead welcomed her third child at the exclusive Lindo Wing maternity ward at St Mary's Hospital in London on Saturday

Luxury: With such high-profile patients, prices start at 6,625 for a normal delivery and rising to 8,300 for a caesarean and even higher for deluxe room upgrades and suites

Binky could be seen as she prepared to push, before welcoming her son to a lavish afternoon tea and luxury box of chocolates.

The hospital known for going above and beyond to provide premium aftercare for its discerning clients.

A brochure for the wing reveals they offer modern private, en suite rooms with all meals made to order on site by a team of talented chefs.

Photography packages, personal touches such as deco and linen choices are also available at an additional cost.

Patients are also offered a wine list - including Champagne - and can have afternoon tea delivered to the room.

The Lindo Wing is part of St Mary's Hospital, which was first founded in 1845.

It is an NHS hospital with a private wing, which was named after hospital board member Frank Charles Lindo after he donated 111,500.

A host of celebrities and royals have given birth at the unit, including comedian Katherine Ryan and Pippa Middleton.

Yum: From champagne afternoon tea and beauty treatments to specially selected linen and personal chefs, The Lindo Wing has it all

Treats: The hospital known for going above and beyond to provide premium aftercare for its discerning clients

The Lindo Wing Price List A standard room at the Lindo Wing would cost parents 6,625 for a normal delivery and 8,300 for a caesarean - excluding consultant fees. Mothers who have previously had a baby at the Wing are given a 10 per cent reduction on the standard delivery package. The price for a stay in one of the unit's suites, where Kate Middleton is likely to give birth, is available on request. The unit also charges families for each additional day in a room, with a standard room costing 1,250 per night or 1,650 for deluxe room. Included in the package price is: Hospital delivery including labour

Midwifery care

Theatre fees

Routine midwife appointments

Routine blood tests

Paediatrician fee for first baby

Nursery care Postnatal physiotherapy

Routine medications and dressings

Meals and daily newspaper

Celebration afternoon tea

Accommodation for the partner

Breakfast for partner

Complimentary gift on discharge Several services are not included in the package, however, including professional fees for obstetric and anaesthetic services, as well as any antenatal care. Breech delivery, blood transfusions, scans, induction (if required), epidural  drugs, consumables and all top-ups, also cost extra. The unit requires a deposit of 7,800 for normal delivery or 11,500 for caesarean section, with outstanding credit returned after discharge. Advertisement

Hospital: It is an NHS hospital with a private wing, which was named after hospital board member Frank Charles Lindo after he donated 111,500

St Mary's Hospital also has a special care section, The Winnicott Baby Unit.

It can look after up to 18 babies at a time in intensive care, high dependency or special care.

Around 350 premature or sick newborn babies are cared for each year by the multidisciplinary team .

The Lindo Wing was re-opened in June 2012 after extensive refurbishment.

The Prince and Princess of Wales welcomed Prince Louis in April 2018 on the wing, weighing 8lbs 7oz, on St George's Day.

Prince George, nine, and Princess Charlotte, seven, were also born on the wing.

Prince William was born at 9.03pm on June 21, 1982, weighing 7lb 1.5oz in the same wing.

He made his public debut with his parents outside the hospital, wrapped in a white blanket carried in the arms of his mother Diana, with the Prince of Wales at their side.

Harry was born in the same exclusive wing just over two years later.

Binky welcomed the bundle of joy on Saturday at St Mary's Hospital in London, he is her second child with husband Max Darnton, 33.

Revealing the date and gender of their child, she penned: '15.04.23 at 10:45pm! Couldn't be happier he's just perfect. We now have three musketeers.'

Fit for Royalty: The Prince and Princess of Wales welcomed their third child, Prince Louis in April 2018 on the wing, weighing 8lbs 7oz, on St George's Day

Family: Prince William was born at 9.03pm on June 21, 1982, weighing 7lb 1.5oz in the same wing (Princess Diana and Charles pictured outside the wing)

In the sweet Instagram clip, Binky documented her labour as she was seen packing her overnight bag before heading to the hospital.

The reality TV personality then changed into a surgical gown, laid on a bed and prepared to push.

In another snap, Max and Binky could be seen after their sons birth, with the newborn laid on her chest.

Earlier this week, her businessman beau took to Instagram to reveal the happy news as he shared a picture of his wife sat on a wooden fence with a picturesque background, captioning the snap: 'Champion' with heart eye and kiss face emojis.

Friends and fans took to the comments section to offer their congratulations for the happy news of the birth, with some making sure to send their well wishes to mum
Cameron Diaz was spotted filming Netflix's Back In Action with two different body doubles for her costar Jamie Foxx, who is hospitalized and undergoing medical tests.

One week after the Oscar winner, 55, suffered a 'medical complication' on April 11 in Atlanta, Georgia, the 50-year-old Charlie's Angels star continued shooting scenes for their upcoming action-comedy, slated for an early 2024 release.

While the performer was unable to shoot with Foxx as he gets treatment for an illness that remains undisclosed, she appeared in high spirits while stepping in front of the cameras with one of the actor's stand-ins.

Monday marked her first day back on set since Foxx was taken to the hospital in the wake of his medical emergency.

His daughter, Corinne Foxx, confirmed in a statement via Instagram on Friday, that her father is currently receiving 'great care' and 'is already on his way to recovery.'

Back on set: Cameron Diaz was spotted filming Netflix's Back In Action with two different body doubles for her costar Jamie Foxx, who is hospitalized and undergoing medical tests (seen on April 18th)

While shooting Back In Action, Diaz was dressed casually before filming began, with a loose-fitting black sweatshirt that swallowed up her trim frame.

She had on matching black pants, and she added some color to her look with a pair of pale pinkframed glasses.

She appeared to go makeup free before getting made up for the scene, and she wore her long shoulder-length blond hair in a messy style.

The Mask star was spotted chatting with one of her costars, the young actress McKenna Roberts, as hey appeared to go over the scripts.

The two actresses even shared a sweet hug.

Although Jamie wasn't available for the shoot due to his ongoing medical conditions, he was temporarily replaced by body doubles.

Two different men appeared to be standing in for his part, and both wore identical costumes with a gray jacket, a burgundy shirt, dark jeans and white trainers.

They also wore their hair cropped short while sporting goatees to match Jamie.

Moving forward: One week after the Oscar winner, 55, suffered a 'medical complication' on April 11 in Atlanta, Georgia, the 50-year-old Charlie's Angels star continued shooting scenes for their upcoming action-comedy, slated for an early 2024 release

While the performer was unable to shoot with Foxx as he gets treatment for an illness that remains undisclosed, she appeared in high spirits while stepping in front of the cameras with one of the actor's stand-ins

One of the men was seen rehearsing a fight scene on the set, which appeared to be taking up a large parking lot.

The other body double was used when Cameron filmed a nighttime scene outside what looked like a nightclub named The Level.

A group of extras in bright clothing were seen lining up in front of the set.

Cameron had changed into a white sweatshirt and jeans while wearing her hair in a ponytail.

She had a concerned expression on her face and looked exasperated as she followed the body double between a pair of cars parked in front of the set.

Getting treatment: While the performer was unable to shoot with Foxx (pictured earlier this month) as he gets treatment for an illness that remains undisclosed, she appeared in high spirits while stepping in front of the cameras with one of the actor's stand-ins

Last week, sources confirmed to TMZ that Foxx's unnamed condition was serious enough to require him to go to a hospital.

Limited details have been shared and it's unclear what symptoms the comedian may have been suffering from.

On Friday, CNN reported tests were being conducted to determine what led to his health scare and that the actor was under observation at the hospital.

'They are running tests and still trying to figure out what exactly happened,' an insider said.

Despite his improving condition, there's no word yet on when he will be able to leave the hospital or get back to filming.

The film, which also features Glenn Close, has been marketed as the return to acting for Diaz, whom he helped to lure out of retirement, though she reportedly plans to retire for good after a string of catastrophes on the film set.

The hospitalization was serious enough that the actor's family came from out of town to be with him.

One source told TMZ, 'He's communicating now, and that's good news,' which may imply that he was at one point unable to communicate due to the medical emergency.

Foxx shares his daughter Corinne with his ex-girlfriend Connie Kline. He also has a 13-year-old daughter Annalise, whom he shares with Kristin Grannis.

His latest film shoot in Atlanta appears to have been a surprisingly stressful ordeal for the Baby Driver actor, as well as his colleagues.

Healing: His daughter, Corinne Foxx, confirmed in a statement via Instagram on Friday, that her father is currently receiving 'great care' and 'is already on his way to recovery'

It was reported last month that Foxx 'had an absolute meltdown' while the film was shooting in the UK, which led to the firing of multiple people.

He reportedly booted an executive producer from the project, along with two directors and even his own driver.

According to The Sun, one staffer was fired in relation to an apparent scam to access 33,000 in cash from the actor, which was reportedly in relation to the sale of a Rolex watch.

There was even more drama when it was revealed that production was paused last month after an unexploded WWII-era bomb was discovered on the film's set in London, just before two major action scenes were set to be filmed.
Minka Kelly adopted a casual look as she stepped out Tuesday for an errand run in West Hollywood, California.

The actress, 42, had a healthy glow as she smiled while flashing a fresh tan.

The Euphoria actress offered a glimpse of her toned torso wearing a white cropped T-shirt and beige pants with a smocked waistband.

The Titans star showcased her flawless complexion, wearing minimal makeup with a natural pink lip. Minka's long brown hair blew gently in the breeze, revealing naturally wavy layers.

This comes after it was shared incidents from her traumatic childhood and toxic relationships will be described in her new memoir, Tell Me Everything.

Natural beauty: The Titans star showcased her flawless complexion, wearing minimal makeup with a natural pink lip. Minka's long brown hair blew gently in the breeze, revealing naturally wavy layers

She completed the look with a multicolor crossover bag, hiking sandals and dark sunglasses.

In her new memoir, Minka details her traumatic childhood with her mother, Maureen, who supported them by working as an exotic dancer, and would sometimes take her to work with her.

'If she made a lot of money that night, we'd go grocery shopping at 2 am,' she wrote.

Unfortunately, Maureen also struggled with drug addiction, and they also experienced hunger and homelessness.

'My childhood was colorful and chaotic, unstable and inconsistent, unpredictable and hard a lot of the times. But the silver lining is that it made me a very adaptable person,' the Jane the Virgin actress said.

Her father, former Aerosmith guitarist, Rick Dufay, 71, was not around during her childhood, but the two did reconnect as Minka got older and 'was able to see the situation for what it was and was able to let go of any grudges.'

The two have a good relationship now, although they 'still drive each other nuts sometimes but I can honestly say that Im not sure where Id be without him today,' she noted.

Minka, who has been connected to many Hollywood A-listers - including actor Chris Evans and former The Daily Show host Trevor Noah - said her first boyfriend pressured her to take part in sexual photos and a raunchy video.

Confident: Minka Kelly, 42, stepped out confidently Tuesday following the bombshell revelation that have been released from her upcoming memoir. She offered a glimpse of her toned torso wearing a white cropped T-shirt and beige pants with a smocked waistband

Memoir: Minka's memoir, Tell Me Everything is scheduled to be available on store shelves and via digital download May 2

Traumatic childhood: Minka wrote about her traumatic childhood, revealing her mother, Maureen, made a living as an exotic dancer, but she and her mom would sometimes go without due to Maureen's drug addiction

Reconciled: Minka's dad, former Aerosmith guitarist, Rick Dufay, 71, was not around during her childhood, but the two did reconnect as Minka got older and 'was able to see the situation for what it was and was able to let go of any grudges' (Pictured in New York in May 2011)

The actress admitted to ignoring advice from Friday Night Lights director Peter Berg's admonition to not enter into a relationship with co-star Taylor Kitsch, 42.

She called their on-again/off-again relationship 'toxic.'

'Life became very difficult both on and off set whenever we broke up.

'We were young and had very few tools to handle our emotions and personal grievances.'

The author credits therapy with helping her deal with the challenges in her life, including reconciling with her mother before her death from colon cancer in 2008.

Tell Me Everything is scheduled to be available on store shelves and via digital download May 2.
MasterChef returned for more drama in Week 2 of the cooking competition on Tuesday.

John Torode and Gregg Wallace judged the next nine contestants hoping for a place in the quarter final with a keen eye but there were some very basic mistakes made in the kitchen.

Two contestants NKY and Victor both undercooked their chicken serving pink meat to the shocked judges.

NKY, 49, a civil servant from Lagos in Nigeria was first to make the mistake as she made a spicy cajun chicken thigh with sticky rice.

But when the judges opened it up it was still pink and raw inside leaving them unable to try the dish.

Oh no! MasterChef returned for more drama in Week 2 of the cooking competition on Tuesday - where two contestants served up raw chicken

Uh oh: NKY, 49, a civil servant from Lagos in Nigeria was first to make the mistake as she made a spicy cajun chicken thigh with sticky rice

Earlier in the day: She looked confident at the start of the task and even twice cooked the meat before the mistake emerged

Mistake: But when the judges opened it up it was still pink and raw inside leaving them unable to try the dish

In reaction one viewer penned on Twitter: 'Why can't people cook chicken??!!??!! #MasterChef'.

Another said: 'More pink chicken #MasterChef #MasterChefUK.'

A third commented: 'Time For a game Raw Chicken Roulette #MasterChef.'

In the cook off after failing to win an apron in the first round Victor's pan-fired guinea fowl with mushrooms and fondant potatoes was pink in the middle too.

One viewer said in reaction to the moment: 'You know you've messed up on #Masterchef when the thing they praise is your potato...'

Another said: 'Quite an achievement to cook legs of a bird thoroughly, but undercook the breast. But I said he was toast earlier. #MasterChef'

Both NKY and Victor, a 62-year-old IT consultant, were sent home at the end of the eventful episode.

Since it was revived in 2005, Masterchef has been judged by John Torode and Gregg Wallace.

Not happy: In reaction one viewer penned on Twitter: 'Why cant people cook chicken??!!??!! #MasterChef'

Bye: Both NKY and Victor, a 62-year-old IT consultant, were sent home at the end of the eventful episode

Whoops! In the cook off after failing to win an apron in the first round Victor's pan-fired guinea fowl with mushrooms and fondant potatoes was pink in the middle too

Icons: Since it was revived in 2005, Masterchef has been judged by John Torode and Gregg Wallace

Yay! BBC have already announced that Masterchef will be returning to screens in 2024, after reaching a six-year deal with production company Shine TV in February 2022

Outside of the show John is best known for hosting John and Lisa's Weekend Kitchen alongside his wife Lisa Faulkner, and is also reknowned for popularising Australian food in the UK in his restaurants The Luxe and Smiths of Smithfields.

Meanwhile Gregg, a former greengrocer, has appeared on BBC series' Live Well For Less and Inside The Factory, though he recently announced that he will be departing the show.

For this year's Masterchef, John and Gregg will be joined a number of guest judges, including food critic William Sitwell and last year's finalists Eddie Scott, Pookie Tredell and Radha Kaushal-Bolland.

Once again, India Fisher - who has appeared in shows including Dead Ringers, Peep Show, and Doctor Who  will return to narrate the show.

BBC have already announced that Masterchef will be returning to screens in 2024, after reaching a six-year deal with production company Shine TV in February 2022.
Many of those who presumed that they would be invited to King Charles's Coronation have been bemused, and emotionally bruised, after learning that their blithe assumptions were misplaced.

But Sarah, Duchess of York  omitted from the guest list because, it is said, she is still considered an 'embarrassment'  is made of sterner stuff, as she made radiantly clear at the London Book Fair at Olympia on Tuesday afternoon.

Indeed, it's apparent that, far from shrivelling up in self-pity, Fergie has been spurred on to plot the next step in her colourful life story.

'I am seriously wanting to open my own bookshop,' she tells me, adding that this new passion is underpinned by a desire to help others. 'I really want to support the independent bookshop sector.'

Sarah, Duchess of York, promoting her various novels and Childrens books, in a meet and greet session at the London Book Fair in Olympia on April 18, 2023 in London, England

Sarah, Duchess of York (left) promoting her books, with her illustrator, David Williams Press, in a meet and greet session at the London Book Fair in Olympia on April 18, 2023 in London

Sarah (left) says she would like to open her own bookshop and support the sector

Sceptics may be disdainful. But they should perhaps think again.

Few, after all, would have the resilience that Sarah Ferguson, 63, displayed after photographs of her having her toes sucked  by Texan bachelor and 'financial adviser' John Bryan  appeared in a national newspaper.

In subsequent years, beset by the immense debts she'd run up, Fergie wrote her first book about Budgie the helicopter. An ITV adaptation followed, as did sales of spin-off products.

Very quickly, she cleared her debts  estimated at more than 4million.

Her authorial talents have found broader expression since then, encompassing Fergie's Farm  inspired by her childhood at Dummer Down Farm in Hampshire  and, more recently, in knocking out Mills & Boon romances, such as Her Heart for a Compass.

Fergie assures me that she continues to straddle both child and adult markets, explaining that, aside from a children's book, she is bringing out three new titles in her 'young adult' series.

'They are all about eating disorders and mental issues I went through as a teenager,' she explains.

At this rate, her bookshop could be filled entirely with her own titles. She certainly shouldn't struggle to find a strapping assistant. Who better than her ex-husband, Prince Andrew?

She says she is writing young adult fiction about eating disorders and mental health issues

Two of the bestselling books written by Sarah, Duchess of York

During the horrors of lockdown, he proved himself a redoubtable packer and stacker as he helped her deliver supplies to NHS staff and cupcakes to a hospice close to Royal Lodge, the house he and Fergie share in Windsor Great Park.

Let's hope there is one title she wouldn't stock at her bookshop: Prince Harry's tawdry memoirs, Spare.
Just a month after her historic Oscar win for Everything Everywhere All At Once, Michelle Yeoh is returning to the Star Trek franchise.

The 60-year-old Malaysian actress will reprise her role as Emperor Philippa Georgiou from Star Trek: Discovery for the new 'original movie event' for Paramount Plus, according to a press release.

Yeoh first starred as the fan-favorite character Georgiou in the first season of Star Trek: Discovery in 2017.

The project was originally reported on back in January 2019, though it was then being developed as a TV series.

Now the streaming service has given the green light for the film project, with production slated to begin later this year.

Back to Trek: Just a month after her historic Oscar win for Everything Everywhere All At Once, Michelle Yeoh is returning to the Star Trek franchise

Reprise: The 60-year-old Malaysian actress will reprise her role as Emperor Philippa Georgiou from Star Trek: Discovery for the new 'original movie event' for Paramount Plus, according to a press release

The series will follow Emperor Philippa Georgiou as she, 'joins a secret division of Starfleet tasked with protecting the United Federation of Planets and faces the sins of her past.'

'I'm beyond thrilled to return to my Star Trek family and to the role I've loved for so long,' Yeoh said in a statement.

'Section 31 has been near and dear to my heart since I began the journey of playing Philippa all the way back when this new golden age of 'Star Trek' launched,' she added.

'To see her finally get her moment is a dream come true in a year that's shown me the incredible power of never giving up on your dreams,' Yeoh added.

'We can't wait to share what's in store for you, and until then: live long and prosper (unless Emperor Georgiou decrees otherwise)!' she concluded.

Executive producer Alex Kurtzman added that Yeoh had an idea to spin-off Georgiou back in 2017, 'before the first season of Star Trek: Discovery had even aired.'

'She broke new ground as one of the first two women on screen in the pilot to usher in a new age of Trek, and now, six years later, Star Trek: Section 31 finally arrives on the heels of her latest groundbreaking win,' he said, referring to her being the first Asian woman to win the Oscar for Best Actress.

'For years, we've been looking forward to Michelle Yeoh one day returning to Star Trek,' added David Stapf, president of CBS Studios.

Secret division: The series will follow Emperor Philippa Georgiou as she, 'joins a secret division of Starfleet tasked with protecting the United Federation of Planets and faces the sins of her past'

Near and dear: Near and dear: 'Section 31 has been near and dear to my heart since I began the journey of playing Philippa all the way back when this new golden age of 'Star Trek' launched,' she added

'Her powerful performance as Captain and Emperor Georgiou was a pivotal moment for the return of the franchise, and her portrayal resonated with fans around the world in a multitude of ways,' he added.

'We couldn't be prouder to join forces with Michelle once again as we continue to explore the 'Star Trek' universe, celebrate its legacy and chart a course for the future of the franchise,' he concluded.

The film will be written by Craig Sweeny, who served as a writer and producer on the first season of Star Trek: Discovery, and directed by Olatunde Osunsanmi, who has directed 12 episodes of Discovery.

Sweeny and Osunsanmi will also executive produce alongside Kurtzman and Yeoh, plus Aaron Baiers, Frank Siracusa, John Weber, Rod Roddenberry and Trevor Roth.

The organization in Star Trek lore known as Section 31 was first introduced in an episode of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine in 1999 entitled Inquisition, written by Ira Steven Behr.

It is a defense organization that carries out covert operations for the United Federation of Planets.

There had been talk of a Section 31 project ever since the end of Star Trek: Discovery Season 1, when a deleted scene featured Yeoh's Georgiou being approached from someone from the organization.

Yeoh will next voice Airazor in the upcoming Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, in theaters June 9, and she stars in the next Kenneth Branagh/Hercule Poirot mystery, A Haunting in Venice, in theaters September 15.

Powerful: 'Her powerful performance as Captain and Emperor Georgiou was a pivotal moment for the return of the franchise, and her portrayal resonated with fans around the world in a multitude of ways,' he added
Chloe Ferry displayed her toned stomach on Tuesday as she took to Instagram to post stunning bikini snaps.

The former Geordie Shore star, 27, sported a revealing yellow bikini top and matching string bottoms.

She opted for a very full palette of makeup for the snap, with a bronzed base, fluttering false lashes and glossy lip.

Gazing to the camera, the realty TV star also gave a glimpse at the quote tattoo on her thigh.

Taking to the caption, she told her 3.8M followers: 'Back in the sun filming'

Wow! Chloe Ferry displayed her toned stomach on Tuesday as she took to Instagram to post stunning bikini snaps

Chloe recently revealed that she is filming for a new series next week and asked her fans to guess where.

Chloe wrote: 'Filming next week where do you think this series is going to be..?'

It comes after Geordie Shore was reportedly axed after 12 years on screens in February.

The MTV reality show - which followed the lives of partying stars such as Chloe, Vicky Pattison and Charlotte Crosby in Newcastle - was pulled amid plummeting ratings, The Sun claimed.

The series started in 2011 and produced hosts of celebrities and influencers including Marnie Simpson , Holly Hagan and Sophie Kasaei.

A source told the publication of the axing: 'MTV chiefs have decided the time has come to call it a day on Geordie Shore.

'The already commissioned series, which is the show's 24th, will go ahead with filming kicking off this weekend and the reunion will go ahead as planned later this summer.

'But once those have been filmed MTV have decided to rest the series and will not be commissioning any more. Think of it as resting the format rather than cancelling it out right.'

The insider added that while it has been one of the most successful runs of all time it hasn't been the same for a few years so bosses thought it would be the right time.

Incredible: The former Geordie Shore star, 27, sported a revealing yellow bikini top and matching string bottoms

The source also claimed that the current stars of the show haven't be told the news of the axing yet and that they are expecting a 'mixed reaction' to the latest.

The publication reported that while at the height of its success more than one million people viewed each episode - it is now said to be at around 100,000 viewers.

An official MTV spokesperson told MailOnline at the time: 'Geordie Shore has not been cancelled and continues to be one of MTV's biggest shows. We can't wait for fans to see what we have in store next season'.

The 24th series will go ahead and so will a second reunion series this summer.

Last April MTV announced that it was producing a first Geordie Shore reunion series that aired in September 2022.

OG cast members including Charlotte , Holly and Sophie returned to screens together, 11 years after the reality show first aired in 2011.

Original Geordie Shore paved the way for the success of its American equivalent, Jersey Shore, and follows a group of young adults from Newcastle as they move into a house together.

The reunion series included a group holiday, a long-awaited wedding and a party in the Geordie Shore house.

The new series was dubbed the 'ultimate Geordie throwback' as original cast members as well as Marnie - who joined the show in 2013 - made it their mission to organise the reunion.

Sad times: It comes after Geordie Shore was reportedly axed after 12 years on screens in February (the cast are pictured)

Charlotte said of the news at the time: 'I always said I would be up for taking part in a reunion show and made no secret that Geordie Shore holds a special place in my heart.

'I'm very excited to reconnect and reminisce with my favourite people and life-long friends.'

The reality star originally left the show in 2016 after announcing her departure on Twitter.

After the success of that reunion series it was reported there will be another this summer that will still go ahead.
Love Is Blind's Zack Goytowski has opened up about his tough upbringing and heartache over his mother's death.

Zack married Bliss Poureetezadi on the show after a dramatic break-up with Irina Solomonovay, who he originally proposed to in the pods.

He became emotional during a conversation with his sister and grandma about how he wished his mother was at their wedding day.

Zack has now discussed coping with his mother's mental illness and addiction while growing up.

During the reunion show, Zack told Netflix viewers: 'All I want to say is look at my receipts on instagram'

Honest: Love Is Blind's Zack Goytowski has opened up about his tough upbringing and heartache over his mother's death

Tough: Zack has now discussed coping with his mother's mental illness and addiction while growing up

In a lengthy post, he penned: 'My senior year in high school, I was filled with anger and rage. My mother's mental illness and addiction were out of control. Sometimes I would come home, and my entire room would be destroyed, walls smashed with a hammer, clothes thrown about after my mother had gone into a manic state.

Zack was forced to move home and schools as a child several times and admitted there was 'no stability'.

He said: 'I didn't understand mental illness; I didn't understand addiction. I was just angry. Angry that I had to say goodbye to so many friends, angry that I couldn't bring my friends over, angry for all the times I had to sit there at night, listening to my mother fight with her boyfriends, fight with my stepdad, angry about all the times I had to watch the cops come to our house, angry about the nights where my mother would threaten to kill herself, and having to lay at home not knowing if the next day I wouldn't have a mother.

'The night my mother dedicated the song I Hope You Dance to me, we had a huge argument. She was not mentally well, drove her car and parked it in the front yard. Then she came in our home and began screaming at my friends. I left, and she threatened to kill herself if I didn't come back. So I did. That's when she dedicated the song that would be the first dance at my wedding.

Zack went on to explain that during senior year he started attending church and felt a 'sense of belonging'.

He continued: 'It was the pastor that lead the youth group who told me a story about a man who sacrificed everything so that others could be forgiven. That story made me realize what it means to give grace.

'The idea that a parent would take on the punishment that their child deserved not because it was just but out of love changed something inside of me. It was in that moment that I chose to forgive my mother. Truly forgive her. And that choice changed my life.

'Fast forward three years. I'm entering my junior year in college. My mother had been committed several times and lost custody of my little sister. It was the end of the summer, and I had just left Portland, volunteering at a homeless shelter.

'I spent my time there not handing out food, but listening to the stories of men and women who were at rock bottom. And it was in listening to their stories that I realized something that shook me to my core. I heard the story of a woman who was abandoned by her family and thrown out on the street, sexually assaulted several times, and then killed herself by jumping off a bridge.

'I heard the story of a father addicted to drugs, who lost his job and was living on the streets of Portland. I asked him if his children knew how he was doing. He told me that he lied to them and didn't let them know. And that's when the lightbulb went off. I hadn't seen my mother in almost six months.

'Every time I tried to meet with her, she would make up an excuse and avoid me. It was in that moment that I realized that my mother was homeless, and she was hiding from me because she didn't want me to see how bad she had gotten.

'I remember driving back home and crying, looking down at the ground for a second and praying to God that I would get to see my mother. She hadn't answered my phone calls for over a week. And shortly after I said that prayer, I looked down at my phone to see a missed call from her.'

During the reunion show, Zack told Netflix viewers: 'All I want to say is look at my receipts on instagram'

She added: 'I picked up the phone and called her. When she finally answered, I told her that I wanted to see her the next day. With that I drove across the state of Washington to a little town in the middle of nowhere. When I arrived, I got another call from my mother. She said she was feeling sick and couldn't make it. I told her I didn't care how sick she was. She needed to come see me. And she did.

'When I saw her, her face was gaunt. She looked like she hadn't eaten or slept in weeks. I sat down with my mother that day. I hugged her, and I told her I forgave her for everything. She had still not forgiven herself.

'She was living at the time in a storage unit, using a space heater at night to keep warm. She was at rock bottom, and she didn't want me to know. I prayed with her that day. I prayed that she would overcome her addiction. I prayed she would be able to overcome her mental illness. And I told her how much I loved her. And it was after that day that everything changed.'

Speaking on his mother turning her life around, he explained: 'My mother miraculously, after decades of being unable to work, decades struggling with addiction and mental illness, she recovered. She finally got clean after relapse and relapse. After being committed numerous times, they finally got her medication stabilized. She got better with the support of my grandmother and my aunts.

'They never gave up on her, never stopped believing in her. She spent the rest of her life serving the mentally and physically disabled. And it was after that moment, my sister and I finally got to have a few normal Christmases together. They were the happiest moments of my life.

'They are moments that I never would have gotten if I held onto the pain of the past and chosen not to forgive. Grace isn't fair. But if we choose to give it every day, we make the world a better place for everyone.'

He ended the post by saying: 'When I was going through my mother's things after she died, I found a small note. It was dated shortly after the day I sat down with her in that small town in the middle of nowhere.

'It said "Somehow she found a little hope in her hopelessness." We all can be someone's hope in the hopelessness.'

Romance: Zack married Bliss Poureetezadi on the show after a dramatic break-up with Irina Solomonovay, who he originally proposed to in the pods

Irina got choked up when trying to apologise to Zack and to the show's viewers, telling the audience she 'needs a minute' which caused some to burst out into laughter.

'I know that's not the person that I want to be and that I'm not,' Irina said, admitted she treated Zack, 'like s---.'

Zack also came face-to-face with his ex Irina, and he didn't pull any punches during the special.

'You did a lot of things, um, that hurt a lot of people, including me, and I mean, you only see 10 percent of it on the camera. There was so much stuff that happened that was just unbelievable,' Zack, 32, began.

'If we're real, you went on this show to get famous. But look, I forgive you. I genuinely, 100 percent forgive you, Irina,' he said to cheers from the audience.

'I really don't hold anything against you. There's so many people that want to attack the people, the cast on this show. And you have no idea, like, everybody who made a mistake on this show, it has been punishment enough for the entire world to see them at their worst,' he continued.

'Like trust me, Irina, Micah [Lussier], everybody here who did something. We all did something stupid. And so I 100 percent forgive you Irina," he added.

'My last comment, I stand on that. I have receipts. The only receipts I think the world should see are the ones I posted on my Instagram today. And with that said, I really believe Irina that you will become an amazing person one day. I believe that and I forgive you for what happened and I hope the world does too,' he said.

Zack's new wife Bliss added, 'I do too and we talked. I really don't hold anything against you,' though she did bring up something harmful Irina said.

'You did tell me when you landed in Mexico that I dodged a bullet while you also texted him, "I'm so sorry, let's talk. I hope something happens with you and Bliss,"' Bliss, 33, said.

'I think you can have panic attacks and you can have trouble with mental illness and all of that. That's totally valid. But then you're turning around and you're doing malicious things and you're acting in really cruel ways. It's hard to reconcile those two things,' she added

Apology: Irina got choked up when trying to apologise to Zack and to the show's viewers, telling the audience she 'needs a minute' which caused some to burst out into laughter

Irina responded, 'That was completely out of line for me to say. Nothing I did was okay, the way I was acting, the way I was talking.'

Irina also admitted that she was flirting with her BFF Micah Lussier's fiance Paul Peden, with Micah saying she always stuck up for her.

'I always was like, "That's my b***h. She's a good person." I never left your side. Was I the big fool here that missed your red flags or was it just a misunderstanding?' Micah asked.

'I do admit to doing that. That's so sneaky. Me seeing Paul, honestly, I was way more attracted to him than I was to Zack,' Irina admitted.
With the real estate sector contributing around 10 per cent to the total cases in consumer commissions, the Department of Consumer Affairs will on Tuesday organise a round table conference in Mumbai to discuss ways to redress the grievances of property buyers.

According to an official statement, the Department of Consumer Affairs is organising a round table conference on How to effectively redress the grievances pertaining to the real estate Sector in Mumbai on April 18. The conference will be organised in association with the Maharashtra Government.

Rohit Kumar Singh, Secretary, Department of Consumer Affairs, Government of India, will chair the conference.

Pertinently, Real Estate cases comprise around 10 per cent of the total cases in Consumer Commissions. So far, since inception, 2,30,517 cases have been filed by the consumers in various consumer commissions, 1,76,895 cases have been disposed of till now, and 53,622 cases are pending, the statement said.

Despite separate tribunals, such as RERA and NCLT, to deal with the cases pertaining to the housing sector, the pendency of cases is rising in various consumer commissions, the department said.

It is for the first time, the Department is conducting such a large-scale conference to redress the consumer grievance in the real estate sector, the statement said.

The conference will discuss -- systemic policy interventions required to reduce litigation in the housing sector. In this regard, the cases filed in the Consumer Commissions would be analysed, and major factors that result in consumer cases will be identified and presented for deliberations.

In addition, why more number of cases are filed before Consumer Commissions despite there being separate authorities, such as RERA, for specifically dealing (with) the cases pertaining to the housing sector will also be discussed. Meanwhile, deliberation on how to ensure that the housing sector cases are dealt with in an effective and speedy manner will also be done, the statement said.

Members of the National Commission, Presidents of State Commissions of Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Haryana, Chandigarh and Gujarat; President of the RERA Appellate Tribunal Maharashtra; RERA Chairmen from Delhi and Maharashtra; Presidents of District Commissions of Delhi, Bengaluru, Thane, Pune, Raigad and Chandigarh are likely to participate in the conference.

Representatives from MOHUA (Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs), RERA, IBBI, Government of Maharashtra, ASCI, and all the VCOs (voluntary consumer organisations) and builders fraternity will also be present.

Homebuyers body Forum For Peoples Collective Efforts (FPCE) President Abhay Upadhyay, who is also an invitee to the conference, has welcomed the move to organise such an event. He hoped that the department will frame a legal framework to ensure that homebuyers get speedy resolution of their disputes.
Truecaller Launches SMS Fraud Protection

Bengaluru: Truecaller has been warning users about potential fraudulent phone calls for over a decade. Now, with the rise in SMS fraud, they have also initiated Fraud Protection: an active effort that combines user feedback with proprietary machine learning intelligence to effectively combat fraudulent messages and senders. This is especially helpful for people who may not know how to spot fraud and mistakenly believe they are dealing with legitimate businesses.

Milma all set to revamp its brand image

Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation (KCMMF), known by the brand Milma, is all set to revamp its brand image through the Repositioning Milma 2023 campaign, which would bring uniformity in packaging and products. The move is aimed at equipping Milma to meet challenges from domestic and global dairy brands and firm up its position as the market leader, an official said here on Monday.Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will launch the Repositioning Milma 2023 initiative at Edappazhanji near here on Tuesday.

AI revamps compensation structure for pilots

New Delhi: Air India has revamped the compensation structure for pilots and cabin crew, including increasing the per-hour flying rate for pilots, according to a source. Under the new structure, part of the Tata Group-owned airlines five-year transformation plan, salaries will be hiked for more than 2,700 pilots across Air India and AIX Connect (including Air Asia India and Air India Express) as well as for more than 5,600 of Air Indias cabin crew, as per the source. The guaranteed flying allowance component will be doubled from 20 hours to 40 hours.

NSE warns investors against dabba trading

New Delhi: The National Stock Exchange (NSE) on Monday cautioned investors against two persons offering illegal dabba trading in the stock market. Dabba trading is an illegal form of trading in shares, where operators of such trading rings allow people to trade in equities outside the stock exchange platform. The cautionary statements came after NSE found that Nitin Shantilal Nagda and Narendra V Sumaria were providing dabba trading. These persons were registered with a trading member (TM) as an authorised person (AP) and the said association as an AP was subsequently cancelled by the TM.

VITEEE-2023 begins in VIT-AP University Campus

Vijayawada: Vellore Institute of Technology Engineering Entrance Examination (VITEEE)-2023 began at VIT AP campus, Amaravati on Monday. VITEEE, the computer-based entrance exam, is conducted every year for admission to B. Tech programmes offered at VITs, Vellore campus, Chennai campus, Amaravati campus, and Bhopal campus. This year VITEEE entrance exam is scheduled from April 17- 23 for the academic year 2023-24. Applicants within 1 lakh ranks are eligible to participate in the online counselling for admission to B. Tech. programmes, tentatively scheduled from April 26 to June 14.

Padma Shri for industrialist late AP Khambatta

New Delhi: The late Areez Pirojshaw Khambatta, Founder and Chairman of Rasna Group, has been awarded the Padma Shri (Posthumous), 2023, for his work in Trade and Industry in the state of Gujarat. One of the highest civilian awards in the country, the award comes in recognition of Khambattas life-long work towards nation building. The award was accepted on his behalf by his wife Persis Areez Khambatta and his son Piruz Areez Khambatta. Khambatta is the first Ahmedabad-based Parsi to receive such an honour.
Indian rebuttal to the claim of developed countries on food security is logical as Indias public stockholding (PSH) has helped food security around the world

Last month, in a meeting of the Committee on Agriculture (CoA) of the World Trade Organization (WTO)  it oversees the implementation of the Agreement on Agriculture (AoA)  developed countries including the USA and Canada challenged Indias public stockholding (PSH) programme saying it is highly subsidized, especially for rice, and that this is affecting the food security of other countries. India countered their claim by saying that far from any adverse effect, its PSH program was helping other countries ensure their food security. This is how its argument goes.

In 2021, India distributed 58 million tons of rice to 800 million beneficiaries. It was able to feed such a mammoth number because the government maintained sufficient stock under the PSH program. But, for this, we would have been depending on the rest of the world to meet our requirements. The global exports of rice in that year were only 56 million tons, this would have led to skyrocketing prices of rice thereby affecting the food security of smaller countries. The Least developed countries (LDCs) - would have been in grave danger. Thus, by ensuring our food security, we have rather ensured the food security of other countries.

Indian rebuttal to the claim of developed countries on food security is logical and convincing. But, what about their other charge that our PSH program is highly subsidized which is what they have been trumpeting for several years now at the WTO and the government hasnt been able to counter it successfully? To understand the reason and how it can go about for better results, let us see how the PSH program works and what is its connection with the AoA.

Under the PSH program, government agencies like the Food Corporation of India (FCI) buy agri-produce such as wheat, rice/paddy, and coarse cereals from farmers at the minimum support price (MSP) and distribute it at a subsidised price of Rs 2/3/1 per kg respectively to meet the needs of Indias poor and vulnerable population under the National Food Security Act (NFSA).

The excess of MSP plus handling, storage and distribution cost over the realisation from the sale (that is, Rs 2/3/1 per kg) is paid as a subsidy from the Union Budget. This includes (a) subsidy to the farmer, being the excess of MSP of, say, rice over its international price also known as External Reference Price (ERP) in WTO parlance and (b) subsidy to the food consumer, being the excess of ERP over the price paid (Rs 3 per kg rice).

The WTO is concerned with (a) branded as product-specific subsidies. It is also concerned with subsidies on agricultural inputs like fertilizers, seeds, irrigation, power, etc., referred to as non-product specific subsidies. Under the AoA, the total of product and non-product-specific subsidies or aggregate measurement support (AMS) is capped at 10 per cent of the value of agricultural production for a developing country. If a member country gives AMS over 10 per cent, it is a violation.

The AoA came into force in 1995. For India, until 2005, MSP was less than ERP. Thereafter, MSP has been higher than ERP and, in the last decade, this gap widened. During 2018-19, in the case of rice, for instance, AMS was at 11 per cent, exceeding the 10 per cent cap. During 2019-20, it was even higher at 13.7 per cent.

For over a decade or so, India along with other developing countries has been making efforts at WTO to wriggle out of the situation. In the 9th Ministerial Conference (MC) held in Bali (2013), it secured sanction for a peace clause. It said, If a developing country gives AMS in excess of 10 per cent, no member will challenge this until 2017 when the WTO would look for a permanent solution.

In the General Council (GC) held in December 2014, this sanction was modified to say The peace clause will stay till a permanent solution was found. However, the peace clause comes with several riders, such as the submission of data on food procurement, stockholding, distribution and subsidies. These also include establishing that subsidies are not trade distorting.

India has invoked the peace clause several times at the WTO for breaching the 10 per cent ceiling in case of subsidy on rice. But, developed countries have objected to such invocation and insisted on safeguards and transparency obligations.

Put simply, they want India to put its entire data under the PSH program under scanner at the WTO. We cant ignore it as it is a requirement for availing of the immunity from challenge. The diciest rider is that the member country exceeding the subsidy ceiling (read: India) will have to demonstrate these are not trade-distorting.

When, can a situation of trade distortion arise?

It could arise if the quantities lying with the government agencies which are meant solely for supplying to beneficiaries under the NFSA instead find their way to the international market. The way the PSH scheme operates, this possibility is not ruled out. This is because often the agencies conduct an auction to dispose of excess stock under the Open Market Sale Scheme (OMSS) in which private players, traders etc also participate. Having acquired foodgrains from such auctions, the private traders are free to sell it in the manner they like which includes export. An argument on these lines resonates during deliberations in the CoA of the WTO. The developed countries argue that India has created large stocks and is exporting the surplus. Indias stance that under OMSS all the bidders are compulsorily asked to give an undertaking that they wont export it may not cut ice. Meanwhile, India is spearheading a proposal by G-33, the African Group, and the ACP (Africa, Caribbean, and Pacific) asking WTO for total exemption for support to PSH for food security. Posited as a permanent solution as decided in the MC-9 (2013) and GC (December 2014), this coalition of developing countries and LDCs wanted the MC-12 held in Geneva (June 12-17, 2022) to take it up for consideration. But, the issue was not even put on the table.

The G-33 proposal could expose vulnerabilities in the way India runs its PSH program all the more when we consider that currently, the government is running an open-ended procurement scheme, particularly for wheat and rice whereby its agencies buy the highest possible quantities from the farmers at ever-increasing MSP (courtesy, compulsions of vote bank politics). These purchases being unrelated to the requirement under NFSA, surplus stocks and some of it entering the global market is unavoidable.

Instead of seeking blanket exemption which it will never get, India should address the root cause. This has to do with the flaws in the formula for the computation of AMS under the AoA (these were allowed to creep in at the time agreement was signed in 1995). The flaws include (i) taking ERP for the year 1986-88; (ii) not excluding subsidies given to the resource-poor farmers; (iii) using the entire output instead of quantity procured for PSH.

These flaws artificially inflate the AMS thereby pushing the Indian subsidy beyond the 10 per cent threshold. India should aggressively push for the removal of these flaws. Concomitantly, in our interest, the government should rein in open-ended purchases from the farmers and bring about agri-market reforms to help them realize a good price for their produce obviating the need for state support.

(The author is a policy analyst)
With violence raging in Sudanese capital Khartoum, the Indian Embassy in Sudan issued a fresh advisory on Monday urging Indians not to venture out of their residences and stay calm. It had issued an advisory on Saturday last and said an Indian national hailing from Kerala died in Khartoum after sustaining bullet injuries. Nearly 4,000 Indians are living in Sudan.

The Union government has said all help will be provided to the family of the deceased Indian national Albert Augestine, 48. Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan said the family of Albert Augestine, who hailed from Kannur district in Kerala, will be provided all necessary help and that steps are on to bring his body back to the country. The minister also spoke to the victims father, a government statement said on Sunday.

Based on the latest inputs the fighting has not subsided on day two. We sincerely request all fellow Indians to continue stay where they are and not venture outside, the Indian mission said on Monday in its second advisory after violence broke out in Khartoum.

Grieving the death of the Indian national, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Sunday said the situation in Khartoum remains one of great concern and that India will continue to monitor the developments in that country.
A day after the Centre questioned the maintainability of petitions seeking validation of same sex marriage, the Supreme Court on Monday agreed to hear the issue on Tuesday. A bench headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud took note of the submissions of Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who mentioned the plea to decide a preliminary issue.

Yes, it will be listed tomorrow, the bench also comprising justices P S Narasimha and JB Pardiwala said.

Terming the petitions seeking legal validation of same-sex marriage as one which reflect an urban elitist view for the purpose of social acceptance, the Centre has told the Supreme Court that recognition of marriage is essentially a legislative function which the courts should refrain from deciding.

Questioning the maintainability of the petitions, the Centre has said that legal validation for same-sex marriages will cause complete havoc with the delicate balance of personal laws and accepted societal values.

The competent legislature will have to take into account broader views and voice of all rural, semi-rural and urban population, views of religious denominations keeping in mind personal laws as well as and customs governing the field of marriage together with its inevitable cascading effects on several other statutes, the Centre said.

The affidavit stated that marriage is a socio-legal institution which can be created, recognised, conferred with legal sanctity and regulated only by the competent legislature by way of an Act under Article 246 of the Constitution of India. The child rights body NCPCR also filed affidavit objecting the legalization.

It is submitted that therefore, it is the humble request of the applicant the issues raised in the present petition be left to the wisdom of the elected representatives of the people who alone shall be the democratically viable and legitimate source through which any change in the understanding and/or the creation/recognition of the any new social institution can take place, the Centre said.

The hearing and the consequential outcome will have significant ramifications for the country where common people and political parties hold divergent views on the subject.

The apex court on November 25 last year had sought the Centres response to separate pleas moved by two gay couples seeking enforcement of their right to marry and a direction to the authorities concerned to register their marriages under the Special Marriage Act.

Some of the petitions have also sought directions from the Supreme Court that LGBTQI couples should get the same rights as heterosexual married couples, which would include rights to inherit each others property, and that their rights be recognised as a spouse under tax, banking and other laws, the right to adopt children or have children by surrogacy among others.
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to investigate the killing of gangster-turned-politician Atiq Ahmad and his brother Ashraf, both in handcuffs, on Saturday night when they were answering reporters queries while being escorted by police personnel to a medical college in Prayagraj for a checkup.

Meanwhile, the three assailants who shot the two brothers were shifted from the Prayagraj Central Prison to a Pratapgarh jail on Monday.

The shifting of the shooters to the Pratapgarh District Jail was done on administrative grounds, officials said.

The three assailants  Mohit, alias Sunny (23) of Hamirpur, Lavlesh Tiwari (22) of Banda and Arun Maurya (18) of Kasganj  were taken from Prayagraj at 12 noon and reached Pratapgarh at 2.10 pm, the officials said.

The trio were arrested soon after the dramatic shootout outside the Prayagraj hospital where policemen were escorting Atiq and his brother Ashraf. Sources said the police may submit an application in the court in a day or two seeking remand of the three assailants. On Sunday, the attackers were sent to 14-day judicial custody by the court.

Meanwhile, Prayagraj Central Prison officials refuted reports in a section of media regarding the health of Ali, Atiqs son who is currently lodged there, and said these reports are not true and he is completely healthy. According to the reports, Ali has been unwell since hearing the news of his fathers killing.

Special Director General of Police (Law and Order) Prashant Kumar said the SIT was formed on the instructions of Prayagraj Police Commissioner Ramit Sharma.

According to the statement, the SIT will be headed by Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police, Crime, Satish Chandra, while its other two members are Assistant Commissioner of Police (Kotwali police station) Satyendra Prasad Tiwari, and Inspector, Investigation Cell of Crime Branch, Om Prakash.
Chennai Super Kings got their act together in the nick of time to eke out an eight-run win over Royal Challengers Bangalore in an Indian Premier League match that produced 444 runs here on Monday.

Devon Conway slammed 83 off 45 deliveries while Shivam Dube blazed away to a 27-ball 52 as CSK posted an imposing 226 for six after asked to bat first. In reply, RCB ended at 218 for eight.

RCB skipper Faf du Plessis (62 off 33 balls) and Glenn Maxwell (76 off 36) gave a scare to CSK till they were at the crease, sharing 126 runs for the third wicket to raise hopes of a famous win.

RCB endured a horrible start as they lost Virat Kohli who played on to an Akash Singh delivery. There could have been more success for Akash had Maheesh Theekshana not dropped a skier from Mahipal Lomror at mid-off.

Lomror though didn't last long and departed after being caught by Ruturaj Gaikwad at cover point. Maxwell meant business as he smashed Akash for two sixes in the next over, even as Du Plessis hit Despande for two fours and a six.

Du Plessis displayed his array of strokes and Akash bore the brunt of his wrath in the next over, conceding two boundaries and a six.

Du Plessis and Maxwell were at their brutal best and didn't spare any CSK bowler, finding the fours and sixes at will.

While du Plessis raised his fifty off just 23 balls, Maxwell's half-century came up in 24 balls. The Australian then struck a huge six as RCB raced to 121 for two in 10 overs.

Theekshana had the last laugh as he foxed Maxwell who hit a skier in search of big shot and MS Dhoni did the rest to break the dangerous partnership. To make matters worse for RCB, du Plessis departed in the next over, handing Dhoni another skier off Meen Ali.

Needing 58 off the last five overs, veteran Dinesh Karthik kept RCB in the hunt with some cheeky boundaries and was also handed a life by Ruturaj Gaikwad off Deshpande in the 17th over. But Karthik was then dismissed by Tushar Deshpande (3/45) to end RCB hopes.

Earlier, it was a struggle for RCB's bowling attack as the CSK batters went hammer and tongs from the onset.

CSK started on a bright note thanks to Conway who first whipped Wayne Parnell to the mid wicket boundary in the second over and, three balls later, lifted the South African over the fine leg fence.

Gaikwad struggled as he departed in the third over, finding Parnell in the outfield from a Mohammed Siraj delivery.

Conway was unperturbed as he went about his business in style, scooping Vijaykumar Vyshak over the keeper for a four, and a ball later, Rahane (37 off 20) executed a perfect hook shot to send the ball into the stands.

Rahane looked in a mood to prove a point as he clobbered Parnell for two boundaries and a six to pick up 15 runs from the sixth over.

Introduced into the attack in the seventh over, Maxwell was hit out of the park by Conway. The duo looked in ominous form as they gathered a boundary or a six in all most every over of their partnership.

Conway was at his best as he smoked Wanindu Hasaranga de Silva over midwicket for a huge six in the 10th over, before the Lankan spinner broke the dangerous-looking partnership by cleaning up Rahane. Conway brought up his second fifty on the trot with a double in the same over.

The New Zealander then smashed Hasaranga for a boundary as CSK reached 97 for two at the halfway stage. Shivam Dube marked his arrival at the crease with a huge six off Maxwell, while Conway continued his onslaught and smashed rookie Vijaykumar for back-to-back fours.

It turned out to be a nightmarish outing for young Vijaykumar as Conway clobbered the bowler over fine-leg boundary for another maximum.

Dube was not to be left behind as he slammed Harshal Patel over long-on for another six. The Indian batter carried on and carted Siraj over midwicket for a four and then hooked a slower bouncer from the bowler over square leg for a maximum.
Slain don-politician Atiq Ahmad and his brother Ashraf had a long criminal history after having been implicated in various cases such as murder, attempt to murder, kidnapping, fraud, land-grabbing, etc. The list of their victims was long, with members of the minority committee having been at the receiving end in most of the cases.

Making these claims here on Monday, an official spokesman said that out of the top 20 criminal cases against the duo, the Ahmad brothers targeted members of the minority community in 13. Ashraf was allegedly involved even in the abduction of two minor Muslim girls from a madrasa and their rape at the gun-point overnight. The victims were dumped in front of the madrasa gate the next morning.

To establish his terror in society, Atiq did not even spare his own family and could go to any extent when it came to land-grabbing. A living example of Atiqs atrocities in this regard is Zeeshan alias Janu, brother-in-law of Imran Zais younger brother and a resident of Kasari Masari in Prayagraj.

Atiq had got Zeeshans house demolished with a JCB to capture the land. In addition to that, according to Zeeshan, he was attacked by Atiqs goons and asked for a Rs 5-crore extortion.

Atiq was accused of murdering Ashfaq Kunnu, a ward councilor of the municipal corporation, in the year 1994. However, Atiq continued to have a free run evading judicial action. Five years later in 1999, the then SP (City) Lalji Shukla took the first action in this matter. At that time, there was a BJP government in the state. Ashraf was arrested in the Ashfaq Kunnu murder case.

Atiq was also accused of shooting ward councillor Nasson, who was once close to the gangster. The rift between the two started after Nasson started raising his voice against Atiqs high-handedness. In the year 2001, Nassons body was found riddled with bullets in Chakia.

BJP leader Ashraf was shot dead reportedly by Atiq in the year 2003. Ashrafs house was located in front of Atiqs house in Chakia. Atiq said that the BJP leader was his brothers namesake and former teased him by working for the opposition party.

The most shocking aspect was that after killing Ashraf, Atiqs henchmen ran away with the body.

Similarly, in the year 1989, he captured the land of Brijmohan alias Bacha Kushwaha in the Jhalna area of Prayagraj. There were protests and Bacha Kushwaha disappeared all of a sudden. Later, Atiq repeatedly beat and shot Bacha Kushwahas son and wife Suraj Kali.
Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel on Monday urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to include the amended reservation provisions in Chhattisgarh in the constitutions ninth schedule.

In a letter, Baghel said keeping in view the special circumstances in Chhattisgarh, the inclusion was desperately needed.

The state is home to a very large section of poor people and a large part of the state is situated in difficult hilly and forest regions and is covered with dense forest.

Thus, it is difficult to implement welfare schemes and the state needs special attention. The situation of Other Backward Class in the state is as weak as the SC and ST and hence they need special protection, Baghel said.

The Assembly in December passed the bills which contain provisions to hike quota on jobs and admissions to 76 percent, he said.

Baghel urged the Prime Minister to kindly instruct the concerned to include the new reservation rule in 9th schedule so that the deprived section could get justice.

Baghel apprised Modi that as per the proposed amendment, the reservation has to be provided to different categories on the basis of their population in the state.

The amendment seeks reservation of 13 pecent to Scheduled Caste (SC), 32 percent to Scheduled Tribe(ST), 27 percent to Other Backward Class (OBC) and 4 percent to Economically Weaker Sections (EWS).
The Delhi Police used water cannon to disperse the protesting BJP supporters at the Chandgi Ram Akhada, outside the Delhi Assembly demanding Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwals resignation over the alleged excise policy scam.

The party workers present outside the Delhi Assembly premise chanted slogans against the AAP supremo and some even tried to breach the barricade placed by security personnel.

They were holding the protest during the daylong session of the Assembly that began shortly after 11am.

Addressing the protesters, Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva who led the protesters, said that Kejriwal is the mastermind of the liquor scam and he will have to go. The protest of the BJP workers led to a massive traffic jam in Civil Lines, Kashmeri Gate and the ISBT.

The police detained some of the protesters, including Sachdeva, as they marched from Chandgi Ram Akhara towards the Delhi Assembly and tried to dismantle the barricades.

Sachdeva said that we had asked five questions to the Kejriwal government to which no answer has been received so far because they do not have answers to the questions.

As soon as Kejriwal came out of the CBI office, Kejriwal gave himself a clean chit but he also needs to understand that the investigation has just begun. He said that the session of the assembly is called to discuss the issues and problems related to the public but the last discussion on the issues related to the public was held in the Delhi Assembly on 29 March 2022 and after that 11 meetings have been held but they did not discuss the problems of the public. There was no discussion on the public issues.
Rajesh Khullar takes the charge as FCR



Chandigarh: A grand welcome was given to 1988 Batch IAS officer, Rajesh Khullar, as he assumed charge of Additional Chief Secretary and Financial Commissioner, Revenue and Disaster Management and Consolidation Departments on Monday. Director, Consolidation of Land Holdings and Land Records Department, Amna Tasneem, and other senior officers welcomed Khullar by presenting a bouquet. He also reviewed the functioning of the department and gave necessary directions.

Hot weather conditions prevail in Haryana, Punjab



Chandigarh: Hot weather conditions prevailed in Haryana and Punjab on Monday with the maximum temperature settling above 40 degrees in most parts of the two states. In Haryana, sizzling heat swept across Hisar as the mercury settled at 41.5 degrees Celsius, according to the Meteorological Department here. Sirsa recorded a high of 41.4 degrees Celsius, Ambala 40.6 degrees, Rohtak 40.5 degrees, Narnaul 40 degrees and Bhiwani 39.2 degrees Celsius. In Punjab, Bathinda recorded a maximum temperature of 41.6 degrees Celsius. The mercury settled at 39.9 degrees Celsius in Amritsar and at 40.2 degrees in Ludhiana. Patiala recorded a high of 40.5 degrees Celsius and the maximum temperature in Pathankot settled at 40.9 degrees Celsius. Chandigarh recorded a high of 40 degrees Celsius.



Hry Govt signs MoU with HDFC bank



Chandigarh: Haryana Government on Monday inked an MoU with HDFC bank in the presence of School Education Minister Kanwar Pal Gujjar. The School Education Department has tied up with HDFC Bank for a free insurance scheme, under which if the employee transfers his salary account to HDFC Bank, he will get several benefits including accident insurance up to Rs. 50 lakhs free of cost. He further stated that death insurance will also be included in this scheme. The spokesperson said that HDFC Bank has also tied up to set up smart classrooms in 103 schools of the state under the CSR programme, in which HDFC will contribute in the ambitious digital financial literacy programme.



MCF Clerk arrested for taking Rs 4000 bribe



Chandigarh: Haryana Anti Corruption Bureau on Monday arrested a Clerk of the Municipal Corporation Faridabad red-handed while accepting bribe of Rs 4000. The accused took the bribe for ID change in property ownership.



5,867 challans issued for traffic violations from April 7-14



Chandigarh: To ensure smooth traffic in the state, Haryana Home Minister Anil Vij on Monday said that a special campaign is being launched by the traffic police to stop the violation of traffic rules. In this series, from April 7 to April 14, 2023, a total of 5,867 challans have been issued for violating traffic rules in the state, which includes 2,803 lane driving and 3,064 wrong-side driving challans. Vij informed that the number of cases of lane driving and wrong-side driving was 731 in Ambala, 313 in Kaithal, 112 in Sirsa, 248 in Kurukshetra, 184 in Mewat, 421 in Rohtak, 81 in Karnal, 77 in Hisar, 124 in Yamunanagar, 97 in Panipat, 268 in Jhajjar, 323 in Narnaul, 110 in Sonipat, 1320 in Faridabad, 256 in Bhiwani, 151 in Panchkula, 260 in Charkhi Dadri, 247 in Gurugram, 183 in Rewari, 148 in Jind, 22 in Hansi, 80 in Fatehabad and 111 challans have been issued in Palwal.



HPLPC recommends purchasing 20 acres of land each for 5 LLPD Automated Dairy Plant at Ambala



Chandigarh: A High Powered Land Purchase Committee (HPLPC) meeting met under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary Sanjeev Kaushal recommended to purchase 20 acres of land each for setting up an Automated Dairy Plant at Ambala and a canal-based water supply in Jind city. The meeting of the Committee of Secretaries for the purchase of land for various developmental projects under the e-Bhoomi portal was attended by Additional Chief Secretary and Financial Commissioner, Revenue and Disaster Management and Consolidation Departments Rajesh Khullar, Additional Chief Secretary, Higher Education Anand Mohan Sharan, Commissioner and Secretary of Irrigation and Water Resources, Pankaj Agarwal, Director of Medical Education and Research, Aditya Dahiya and Director, Consolidation of Land Holdings and Land Records, Amna Tasneem.

Foundation stone for strengthening existing sewerage system laid at Burail



Chandigarh: To provide a better sewerage system in village Burail, Mayor Anup Gupta on Monday laid the foundation stone for two projects including "strengthening of the existing sewerage system and making new sewerage connections for houses in village Burail, in the presence of Anindita Mitra, Commissioner, and others.

Punjab Minister distributes grants to NGOs

Ludhiana: Punjab Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr Baljit Kaur on Monday distributed grants to all NGOs working for the betterment of society under PM6 scheme, while also encouraging them to work wholeheartedly so that maximum people can be benefitted. Dr Baljit Kaur said that the previous system of giving grants on the NGOs written demand has been stopped, and from now on, the NGOs have been selected after following the interview process. Now, the Department would keep a check on works carried out by these NGOs with the help of these grants.

Farmers getting MSP payments within 24 hrs: Minister

Chandigarh: Punjab Government is making payments directly into the farmers bank accounts within 24 hours of confirmation of purchase, breaking previous records, and beating the target of release of payments within 48 hours of purchase set by the Government, said the Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak. He said that the payments of more than Rs 3,014 crores have been released to nearly 1,05,574 farmers till date. This is much beyond the amount of Rs 2700 crores which was due for purchases made until 48 hours earlier, he said, adding that these figures clearly prove that payments are being released within 24 hours of purchase.

Two-week prog for English teachers

Chandigarh: To further improve the English language and communication skill of the children of the state, Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains on Monday launched another innovative course at Mahatma Gandhi State Institute of Public Administration. Thanking the US Embassy for the collaboration for this noble cause, the Minister also encouraged the participants to make best use of this opportunity. Two American trainers will be working with 40 English language teachers on an intensive two-week program in Teaching English to Adolescents from April 17  29.
Plants in Krishna Kunjs developed by the Chhattisgarh government in urban areas have, after just one year, taken the shape of lush green trees.

An official communication on Tuesday said that 55,781 saplings have been planted in 169 urban bodies across the state, covering 224 acres of land. Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel launched the green mission on the occasion of Krishna Janmashtami last year. The ambitious Krishna Kunj Yojana was launched with Baghel himself planting trees at Telibandha, Raipur.

Trees of cultural and religious significance have been planted, the communication said.

These include sandalwood, rudraksha, banyan, peepal and kadamba, which maintain environmental balance and provide enough oxygen. Similarly, fruit trees such as mango, tamarind, ber, ganga-imli, jamun, tendu, chironji, pomegranate, kaitha, neem, palash, bel and amla have also been planted.
Decks have been cleared for appointment of 2000 posts of Lower Division Clerk (LDC), Panchayat Secretary and stenographer in state. The State Cabinet today gave its nod for appointment of vacant posts for LDC, Panchayat Secretary and Clerk.

Cabinet Secretary Vandana Dadel said that bottlenecks have been cleared for the appointment of 2000 posts of LDC, Panchayat Secretary and stenographer in state. Recently the Supreme Court directed the state government to carry out the recruitment of LDC, Panchayat Secretary and Clerk in State.

In todays Cabinet meeting, 20 proposals were approved. The Cabinet meet started after tributes were paid to former education minister Jagannath Mahato, whose Cabinet colleagues kept two minutes silence in honour of the late minister.

The State cabinet today paved path for government jobs to Soni Kumari and around 2000 others like her whose appointment had got trapped in legal intricacies after the Jharkhand High Court in September 2019 stayed the appointment of teachers terming the way of appointment adopted in 2016 unconstitutional and later the Supreme Court in August also upholded the same decision.

This became possible after the Cabinet approved relaxation in the 2016-recruitment rules in the wake of a Supreme Court order on December 15, 2022 directing Chief Secretary Sukhdev Singh, to prepare a merit list including those who have been already selected on the basis of old rule and those who have become the original petitioners in this matter after the public notice of the high court in the matter.

The Cabinet also approved the proposal giving the status of agriculture to lac cultivation. Four lakh rural families will be benefited. The Cabinet also gave its approval permission to work for an additional year as advanced graduate apprentice and advanced technician apprentice to those who have completed one year training period after their engineering and diploma respectively, implementation of the centrally sponsored Pradhan Mantri Matysa Sampada Yojna after obtaining budget provision for top up from the state plan and the guarantee of the state government on taking a loan of Rs 776.00 crore from the Bank of India for the purchase of paddy from farmers at the minimum support price.

Administrative approval was given to the draft for the development of Interstate Bus Stand, Ranchi under Public Private Partnership system. Additional Director General, Directorate of NCC, Bihar and Jharkhand were approved to declare State NCC Cell for execution of all activities related to Jharkhand State NCC.

Based on the record account of the legal researcher/research associate for the cooperation of the judges, approval was given to increase the existing monthly honorarium of Rs 30 thousand to Rs 40 thousand.
Top officials of CII Northern Region on Monday shared the organization's key recommendations for the growth and development of the industry in Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh and highlighted the need for the right infrastructure, logistics, and government support to transform the region into the countrys industrial hub.

At a news conference held at the CII Northern Region Headquarters, Deepak Jain, Chairman, CII Northern Region & Chairman & Managing Director, Lumax Industries Ltd, said states like Punjab and Haryana have a high potential for Exports from sectors like Textile, Auto Components, Bi-cycle, Food Processing etc. He also emphasized CII's long-standing commitment towards the growth and development of the industry and the need for a collective effort to achieve it.

CII Northern Region will soon initiate an Incubation programme for handholding budding entrepreneurs and also help them in networking to find potential investors. It shall also work towards bridging the rural-urban disconnect and will work extensively on bringing in diversity at workplaces in Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh.



This year, CII will focus on internalizing the tenets of sustainability and climate action and accelerating its globalisation journey for leadership in a changing world. This will be undertaken through an inclusive model of growth that builds trust between all stakeholders, including Government, Industry, society, consumers, investors, and the external community, he shared. He gave the example of projects like CIIs Crop Residue Management, which is running in 12 districts of Punjab and Haryana, covering 300 villages and 3 lakh acres of farmland and 50,000 farmers," Jain said.
Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya Bhopal is organizing Cleanliness fortnight-2023 and on this occasion Bhuvan Vikram, director of the museum administered the oath of cleanliness to the officials present at office premises.

Speaking on the occasion, he said that the Swachhata Pledge is a part of the Swachh Bharat Mission of the Government of India, It is basically considered an attempt to stick to its point. Similarly, the cleanliness oath is related to the matter of sticking to cleanliness or taking a pledge. For this work you have to be aware of cleanliness and fulfill this resolution of cleanliness by giving at least 100 hours in a year as well as motivating your workplace and people around you not to litter. Every single step we take towards cleanliness will help in making the entire museum clean. The coordinator of the program Deepak Choudhary said that on Tuesday from 11 am the heritage walk will be organized from the traditional technology park in which a large number of spectators are likely to participate.
On the occasion of its Foundation Day, the department of Pharmacology, AIIMS Bhopal, hosted a 2 -day National Conference "National PharmaCON 2023" on April 17 and 18.

The theme of this conference is "Improving Prescribing Practices- Roles and Responsibilities". The inaugural address of the conference was delivered by Dr. Ajai Singh, Executive Director, AIIMS, Bhopal who stressed on the need for rational prescribing of medicines. Dr. Balakrishnan S, Professor, and head, presented a brief overview of the achievements of the department in the first decade of its existence and vision for the next 5 years. Dr. Balakrishnan S and Dr. Shilpa Kaorewere the organizing chairperson and organizing secretary of the conference, respectively. This national conference was attended by fifty delegates from Medical institutions all over India.

At this conference, the talks on various aspects of improvement of prescribing practices were delivered by eminent speakers from Academia and the Industry, both from India and abroad.

The foundation day oration on "Selection of Essential Medicines" was delivered by Dr Y.K. Gupta, President, AIIMS Bhopal.Dr. Nilima A.Kshirsagar, former National Chair Clinical Pharmacology ICMR discussed on "ICMR online course for Prescribing Skills". Dr SP Dhaneria, Ex- dean, AIIMS Raipur discussed on "Prescribing in the Elderly".

Other topics included in the first day of conference were "Generic Drug Prescribing- a Pharmaceutical Perspective" discussed by Siddharth Gadia, co-founder of Zeno health,"E-prescribing, and Sale of Medicines" discussed by Dr. Devesh Gosavi, Professor of Pharmacology at MGIMS, Sewagram "Off-label Use of Medicines and its regulatory aspects" discussed by Dr. Deepak Langade, Professor of Pharmacology, DY Patil Medical College, Mumbai "an overview of Drug and Therapeutics Committee" discussed by Dr Shubham Atal, Associate Professor, Pharmacology, AIIMS Bhopal and "Career Opportunities for students Pursuing MD Pharmacology" by Dr. Sreekanth Gattu, Global Program head, Sandoz BioPharmaceuticals, Switzerland.
The Delhi governments Directorate of Education (DoE) on Monday issued a notice to the Regional Director of Education (RDE) over the alleged denying of admissions to a group of allotted weaker section/disadvantaged group (EWS/DG) category students by some private schools.

It has been brought to the notice of higher authorities of DoE that some private unaided recognised schools where EWS/DG/CWSN category candidates allotments were made for the entry-level classes are denying admission and status of such allotted candidates have not been found updated on Management and Information Systems (MIS) module, the circular said.

The DoE has directed the RDEs to call a meeting of heads of schools and principals with respective district DDEs for ensuring admission of the allotted students and direct the schools to update the status on the MIS module by April 19.

The DoE has further asked the RDEs to provide a status report to the Private School Branch by April 21.
The Delhi University has asked its colleges to allow only pre-registered students at cultural festivals and events, and also instructed them to hire door frame metallic detectors from police to monitor the entry at such programmes.

The varsity has issued a 17-point advisory to colleges and departments for holding programmes, events and fests in which it has been enunciated that the responsibility for events will lie with the college, and department authorities and the college concerned will be solely responsible for any untoward incident.

The university has also asked the colleges to hold an Advance Security Liasoning meeting with all stakeholders, namely fire, police, electricity and security personnel, college representatives, and event management companies.

Notably, the direction comes after students of the varsitys Indraprastha College for Women (IPCW) alleged that they were harassed by unknown men during a fest on March 28. The incident had led to widespread protests by students who demanded the resignation of the college principal.

Responsibility for events shall lie with the college/department authorities. They should act judiciously using due diligence while organising programmes/events/fests. There should be a careful assessment of the capacity of the venue about attendees expected, read the advisory issued by the Delhi University (DU).

Entry for events should be through pre-registration like on Google Forms with details of the event, that is, date, venue, and the expected number of participants, should be maintained and submitted to the police with a copy to other above-mentioned departments, it added.

The registration forms should include scanned copies of college ID-cards of the participants, the advisory stated.

Information on the capacity of the various venues should be mapped and the total number of participants allowed should be by the available space, it said.

The advisory has been prepared after a host of meetings with several university and college officials and the Delhi Police.

The guidelines were prepared in the wake of several all-women colleges witnessing harassment incidents during cultural festivals. The DU advisory also suggested that there should be multiple gates in the college and all gates must have working CCTVs.
Delhi Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxenas objection to the summoning of Mondays Assembly session is an insult to the House and does not behove the constitutional post he holds.

Deputy Speaker of Delhi Assembly Rakhi Birla alleged that attempts were being made to diminish the dignity and power of the House. Deputy Speaker Rakhi Birla has referred the matter to the Privileges Committee. She also asked the committee to examine whether the L-G should be summoned in the matter or not. The daylong session of the Assembly began shortly after 11 am, and Deputy Speaker Birla expressed condolences in the House for the loss of lives in recent incidents, including the one in Maharashtra.

AAP MLA Sanjeev Jha then raised the issue of the Delhi Lt Governors note flagging procedural lapses in calling of the current session by the Delhi government. The LGs objection is an insult to the House, he alleged.

The Lt Governor can send a message to the House only on aid and advice of the Council of Ministers. If he doesnt have understanding of the Constitution, he should have someone to advise him on matters of law and Constitution, Jha said.

The AAP MLA also slammed the Lt Governor, saying his job was to govern law and order. He alleged that it is in poor shape in the city, with drugs being freely available and land grabbing rampant due to inaction of the DDA.

Lt Governor Saxena on Sunday had flagged procedural lapses in summoning the day-long session of the Delhi Assembly on April 17, drawing a sharp reaction from Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who said he would want the LG to study the Constitution again. In a note to the Delhi government, Saxena pointed out that the Speaker of the Delhi Legislative Assembly has proposed to call the second part of the fourth session of the seventh Assembly, whereas the Delhi Cabinet has recommended convening a one-day session of the House, officials at the LG office had said.

As per Rules and Act, the Assembly, which was adjourned sine die on March 29, 2023, has to be prorogued before a fresh session can be convened. As a session remains unprorogued, a new session cannot be convened, they said.
Delhi Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena on Monday wrote to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal warning him of legal action regarding his allegations of an alleged bid to stop the AAP governments flagship power subsidy scheme in the city.

Saxena asked the Chief Minister to furnish documents, substantiating his allegations, that establishes that the Raj Niwas wants power subsidy to be stopped or is conspiring with officers or a political party to stop power subsidy, as is being openly alleged by your Ministers and colleagues in the party.

He further termed them as unsubstantiated and false.

It is expected that the information sought above will be furnished to me at the earliest, failing which it would be assumed that you and your colleagues are deliberately misleading the people of Delhi and playing petty political games, which deserve unequivocal condemnation and legal redressal, Saxena said in his letter to Kejriwal.

For the past few weeks, the Minister (Power), Minister (Health) and you yourself have been making blatantly false, misleading, accusatory, libelous and defamatory statements in the media and elsewhere to the effect that the subsidy given in the power sector is being stopped by the Lt Governor/that the Lt Governor is conspiring with the officers to stop power subsidy., reads the letter.

 On 13. 03.2023m Delhi Power Minister Atishi alleged that LG, Chief Secretary and Power Secretary are conspiring to disrupt the free electricity supply being provided to the people of Delhi.

In a press release on March 24, 2023, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said that LG is determined to stop electricity subsidy, we are also fighting strongly, will not let subsidy stop.

In another press statement, Atishi said that LG-BJP nexus conspiring to Stop power subsidy for farmers & advocates. On March 30, Atishi further said that LG and BJP pressurising the officials of the power department to stop subsidy.

On April 4, Kejriwal said Delhi to continue getting free electricity, CM Kejriwal thwarted BJP & LGs conspiracies
The UNESCO Sub Regional conference for heritage development and conservation was inaugurated on Monday by the Chairman of Madhya Pradesh State Tourism and Development Corporation, Vinod Gontiya in the gracious presence of Junhi Han, Chief of Culture, UNESCO New Delhi, Somarathne Vidanapathirana, Secretary, Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious & Cultural Affairs, Sri Lanka, Karma Tenzin, Executive Architect, Department of Culture & Dzongkha Development, Bhutan, Suresh Suras Shrestha, Joint Secretary/ Head, Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Nepal, Aishtha Muneeza, Project Manager, Ministry of Arts, Culture & Heritage, Maldives, Subrata Bhowmik, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Cultural Affairs Bangladesh, Principal Secretary Tourism and Culture Department and Managing Director, MP Tourism Board Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Janhwij Sharma, Additional Director General, Archaeological Survey of India and Aneish P. Rajan, Director, Ministry of Culture, Govt. of India and Ms. Shilpa Gupta, Commissioner Archaeology, Govt. of MP at the Khushabhau Thakre International Convention Centre (Minto Hall), Bhopal.

The conference is set to continue till April 18. Chairman of Madhya Pradesh State Tourism and Development Corporation, Vinod Gontiya highlighted that he takes a lot of pride to be a part of such a prestigious culture which is blended in Sanchis history, Mandus tales and impressions of Khajuraho. He thanked UNESCO for their work and added India has been taking its own initiatives for thousands of years to protect the culture of the country.

He quoted an example; such is the selfless heritage of India that some dynasty spent 25 generations to build the Ajanta Alora caves yet nobody knows who built it. He added that other than the already existing UNESCO World Heritage sites, MP has many more places like Morena, Mitaoli, Padhavali and Batteshwar which are exemplary examples of heritage.

Speaking on the occasion, Hezekiel Dlamini, Officer-in-Charge and Adviser for Communication and Information for South Asia, UNESCO New Delhi Office sent a video message and extended his gratitude to Madhya Pradesh for organising the conference. He highlighted how important it is to exchange ideas for the development of Cultural and National Heritage. He also insisted on the sustainable development of heritage.

Junhi Han, Chief of Culture UNESCO discussed the 50 years of the World Heritage Convention-Towards Inclusive, People Centred and holistic Approach: Evolution of the Concept on Cultural Heritage.

PS Tourism Sheo Shekhar Shukla welcomed the delegates to the clean and green heart of India. He highlighted how integral it is to connect with the foreign delegates for the exchange of knowledge and experiences for cultural and national development. He told the delegates about the already existing UNESCO sites of Madhya Pradesh including Khajuraho, Sanchi and Bhimbetka and the tentative sites including Orchha, Mandu, Marbel Rocks of Bedhaghat and Satpura Tiger Reserve. He mentioned that Gwalior and Orchha are also being developed under the HUL (Historic Urban Landscape) project of UNESCO. He also mentioned that the inherited heritage of India is invaluable.

The conference will focus on an integrated approach to safeguard cultural heritage and promote sustainable tourism.

The delegates experienced the glimpses of rural cultures of Madhya Pradesh at the exhibition arranged at the venue where they also enjoyed the local cuisines of MP and attended a cultural program at the Tribal Museum of Bhopal followed by the dinner there.
Community Week Day celebrated at SCS

Community Week Day was celebrated by the Science Club from 10th April to 17th April in Atal Tinkering Lab of Surendranath Centenary School, Ranchi. On this occasion, coordination was established with the children of non-ATL schools for the all-round development of the society. On this occasion the Science Club decided to work in collaboration with the neighbouring School Cluny Convent, Dipatoli. The projects were designed in coordination with the children of Class IX and X of both the schools. During this, the children of both the schools together exchanged ideas related to basic electronic project creation and inclusiveness. Principal Samita Sinha said that science has an important role for the all-round development of the society. Such an event gives all children an opportunity to air their inclusive ideas. These innovative ideas can help to build a great nation in the near future.

Reliance Nippon launch new plan

Reliance Nippon Life Insurance Company Limited, one of Indias most trusted and leading private life insurers, announced the launch of their brand-new plan, Reliance Nippon Life Nishchit Bhavishya, a non-linked, non-participating, individual, savings life insurance plan which offers, guaranteed tax-free returns with an increasing income benefit. Key highlights of Nishchit Bhavishya plan are guaranteed benefit on survival and maturity, increasing income benefit to overcome increasing cost of living, high death cover (11-37X of Annual Premium) during premium payment term with protection benefits for the entire policy term, life Cover from early ages to near-retirement stages  entry from ages 5 to 50 years, option to enhance protection through choice of riders, option to choose between two plan variants according to your growing needs and tax benefits as per prevailing tax laws.

Last day of 'Cancer Wala Camera' today

Today is the last day of 'Cancer Wala Camera'. This charity photo exhibition will be open till 6 pm on Tuesday. The movement of people continued on the second day as well. Many important dignitaries saw and bought the pictures. Journalism students from Gossner College also came and looked at the photos and discussed cancer. Talking about the photo exhibition, journalist Ravi Prakash said that the exhibition will continue on April 18 as well. As many as 37 pictures are not sold yet. He has appealed to the people to support by buying the photographs. He also said that many important people will reach in the concluding session as well.
In a major action in the drugs matter, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday dismissed the controversial cop  Punjab Additional Inspector General of Police (AIG) Raj Jit Singh, besides ordering a vigilance probe into his disproportionate assets.



The action came days after the Punjab Government received the three sealed reports of the Special Investigation Team on drug rackets in the state. Acting in the same, the State Government, on the Chief Ministers directions, terminated the services of former Moga SSP Raj Jit Singh after his involvement has surfaced in the grave crime against humanity.



Exhibiting a zero-tolerance policy against those involved in the heinous crime of drug smuggling, Mann said that this action is in consonance with the directions of Punjab and Haryana High Court to act strictly against those named in the report pertaining to drug trade in the State.



Categorically stating that those who have ruined youth of Punjab, through drugs, wont be spared, Mann said that he had asked the Vigilance Bureau to probe into the wealth amassed by Raj Jit by drug money so that it can also be confiscated.



Mann said that as Raj Jits involvement has been ascertained in this serious crime, his services have been terminated with immediate effect.



Further details will be shared very soonThis is just the beginning and all those who are involved in this sin against the state and its youth will be brought to book, he said.



Mann said that the drug trade, which had flourished during the previous Akali-BJP and Congress regimes, had ruined the future generations of the state. The affluent leaders of both these parties had patronized this illegal trade in connivance with the bureaucrats and drug smugglers to mint money illegally, he added.



The Chief Minister said that the probe report on this issue had been in wraps since long as none of the previous government was sincere to take action against those forces which had ruined the future of Punjab. However, now when I have received the report in three packets from the High Court, severest of severe action will be ensured against the forces inimical to state and its youth, he said while assuring the Punjabis that exemplary action will be taken against those people whose hand are drenched with blood of countless youth who fell prey to drug menace.



Notably, the reports  submitted in sealed covers by SIT chief Siddharth Chattopadhayaya in 2018  were recently made public by the Punjab and Haryana High Court.



The SIT, which investigated Raj Jits connivance with dismissed ORP inspector Inderjit Singh, said that in one of the reports that the latter had smuggled drugs from Pakistan with the aid of smugglers like the late Gurjeet Singh, Sahab Singh, Dalbir Singh and dismissed BSF jawan Suresh Kumar Tyagi. It also stated that Inderjit Singhs connivance with several other officers would be the subject of a separate inquiry.



Huge amounts were mobilized as loans or gifts by Raj Jit Singh during the relevant period. Although intimations have been given by Raj Jit Singh to his department in respect of these loans/gifts, the financial capacity of those individuals who had given such loans/gifts is required to be investigated, the report read. There is a sudden rise in the assets by Raj Jit Singh and his family members, for the period 2013 onwards, which gives definite scope for further inquiry.



As per the SIT report, the office of DGP, Punjab, was requested to furnish copies of the annual property returns filed by Raj Jit Singh. An analysis of these property returns has revealed that there has definitely been an upswing in the immovable assets owned by Raj Jit Singh, from the year 2013 onwards.


Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday led the Aam Aadmi Partys (AAP) massive show of strength by holding an impressive road show in favour of the party candidate for Jalandhar Lok Sabha bypoll Sushil Kumar Rinku, who filed his nomination papers later in the day.

Rinku filed his nomination papers in the presence of Chief Minister Mann, along with Cabinet Ministers and AAP MLAs, at the Deputy Commissioners office.

With bypoll considered to be the litmus test for the ruling party, AAPs supremo and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will also be joining the partys election campaign on April 20 (Thursday) for May 10 byelections.

Addressing the road show, Mann said: We have sounded our bugle. Now campaigning will be intensified to highlight party policies and welfare work done by the State Government in the past one year.

Mann said that this is AAPs first election since it was declared a national party and it will go all out to ensure Rinkus victory. AAP leaders and workers will go village to village to woo voters, he added.

Opposition parties are stunned by AAPs rising popularity and are trying their best to defame its leaders, said Mann, adding that they questioned Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for nine and half hours yesterday.

Mann added, You made me the Chief Minister, and I had to vacate Sangrur seatNow, we dont have Sangrur seatI request you to fill the gap, and elect us from Jalandhar.

Talking about local issues, Mann asked, From which angle is Jalandhar a smart city. Everywhere there are mounds of garbageNow, Urban Development Department is with me. We'll make all the cities shine.

Mann said that the Opposition has gone speechless on the state governments timely crop compensation.

At the same time, he added that big decisions will be taken in the coming days.

AAP has fielded former Congress MLA Rinku, a day after he joined the party on April 5. In the 2022 assembly elections, Rinku had lost to incumbent AAP MLA Sheetal Angural from Jalandhar West assembly segment by 4,253 votes.

The Jalandhar Lok Sabha byelection was necessitated after Santokh Singh Chaudhary, the sitting MP, died after suffering a heart attack during Rahul Gandhis Bharat Jodo Yatra on January 14. The Congress has fielded Santokh Chaudharys widow to cash in on sympathy votes.

Aap Workers Clashed Ahead of Road Show

Minutes before the arrival of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, a clash also broke out between the two factions of AAP  between the workers of Paragpur and Phagwara units of the party over a previous feud. Several workers were also injured as they hurled bricks at each other. Pictures and videos of workers with bleeding heads went viral ahead of the road show. However, no one is reported to be seriously injured.

Cong launches Zaroor Puchho Sawal campaign against AAP

To expose the ruling Aam Aadmi Partys (AAP) false promises and fake claims, Punjab Congress on Monday launched Zaroor Puchho Sawal campaign in Jalandhar.

Party leaders, including the state Congress president Amrinder Singh Raja Warring and former Cabinet Minister Bharat Bhushan Ashu, alleged that instead of concentrating on the development, progress, and prosperity of the state as promised in its poll manifesto, AAP deceived the people of Punjab with its lies and frauds.

In the name of badlaav, AAP  Advertisement Aadmi Party  burdened the state exchequer to mislead the voters and validate its false claims by propagating lies through paid advertisements, they said.

The delegation of Congress leaders, led by Warring, stood with placards supporting Zaroor Puchho Sawal campaign along with the promises that were not fulfilled by the ruling state government.

Some of the placards read Zaroor puchho sawal kitthe hai aurtaan da 1000 rupaiya? (Do raise the question where are the 1000 rupees promised to women?), Zaroor puchho sawal kyu band keeti dheeyan di shagan scheme? (Do raise the question why shagun scheme for daughters was discontinued? Zaroor puchho sawaal kyun nahi keeti bazurgaan di pension 2500 Rupaye (Do raise the question why old-age pension was not increased to 2500 rupees? Zaroor puchho sawaal kyun gareebaan de neele card katte (Do raise the question why blue cards of the poor were discontinued? Zaroor puchho sawaal kyun band nahi hoiyan kisan khudkhushiyan (Do raise the question why farmers suicide did not end? among other promises and lies of AAP.

The placards were flashed by the leaders at the BR Ambedkar Chowk, Jalandhar, to register their protest against the incompetence and poor governance of the AAP government.

Coming down heavily on the AAP Government, Warring said that the party would address the pain of the people caused by the misrule of the Bhagwant Mann led government through the Zaroor Puchho Sawal campaign.

Slamming the State Government for betraying the people of the state, Warring said that he strongly condemns the government's attitude to deceive and mislead the voters and humiliate, threaten and scare the opposition leaders who dare to expose the AAPs lies.
Delhi Mayor Dr Shelly Oberoi and Deputy Mayor Aaley Mohammad Iqbal on Monday filed their nominations for the April 26 Mayoral elections for a possible second consecutive term, with the AAP confident its candidates are poised for a win. Oberoi and Iqbal filed their nomination papers in the presence of AAP MP Sanjay Singh, Delhi Education Minister Atishi and Leader of the House of the MCD, Mukesh Goyal. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), elects a new mayor after the end of every financial year.

Earlier, the AAP has decided to stick with incumbent Oberoi and Iqbal as their mayoral and deputy mayoral candidates, respectively, for a second term . We will repeat Shelly Oberoi and Aaley Mohammad Iqbal as candidates for mayor and deputy mayor posts respectively. AAP had emerged victorious despite the BJPs attempts to disrupt the mayoral polls earlier. Our candidates will win the polls this time too, AAP leader Sanjay Singh said in a press conference earlier in the day.

Singh also accused the opposition BJP of attempting to disrupt the mayoral polls earlier. Despite that, the AAP emerged victorious, he added.

Atishi expressed her confidence that both elections would be won with a vast majority in favour of AAP. Our Mayor-Deputy Mayor do not sit in AC rooms but work on the ground, she added, while saying, They go everywhere, from the garbage mountains to different wards, schools, and hospitals. This has brought agility to the system. This has brought agility to the system. Chief Minister Shri Arvind Kejriwal himself is personally monitoring the cleanliness and development works of the mountains of garbage. She also affirmed that the Delhi Government and MCD would continue to work together under AAP.

Oberoi thanked Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for giving her the opportunity. The people of entire Delhi have given us a huge majority. In such a situation, the people of Delhi have a lot of expectations from us. I will try to work with honesty and hard work to realise this dream, she added.

She added that the AAP will do its best to live up to the expectations of the people of Delhi in the coming times. We will work closely with the Delhi government with full honesty and hard work in the coming term. I thank Shri Sanjay Singh ji and Ms. Atishi ji, for their guidance & presence at the time of my nomination.

A senior municipal official from the secretariat said that the prospective candidates can file nomination papers with the municipal secretary till April 18. The nominees will have the freedom to withdraw their candidature till the beginning of the house meeting when the final call will be made, the official explained.

The post of the mayor sees five single-year terms on a rotation basis, with the first year being reserved for women, the second for the open category, the third for the reserved category, and the remaining two again for the open category.

The December 4 civic polls last year were the first after the three corporations were unified into the MCD and a fresh delimitation exercise was carried out, reducing the total number of wards from 272 in 2012 to 250. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) had emerged victorious in the polls.
Chief Minister Hemant Soren today said that where the number of AYUSH doctors in the State was less than one hundred a few months ago, today the number of AYUSH doctors in the state is more than one thousand. Earlier, the budget for the AYUSH sector used to be only Rs 20 to 30 crores, while our government has now made a budget provision of Rs 300 crores to further strengthen the AYUSH sector.

It is my endeavour that works which benefit the general public should be done on a priority basis. At present, there are many areas where there is a need to act with great speed, honesty and firmness. Education, health and infrastructure are all such sectors where work should not be seen only on paper but on the ground. It has been our aim to ensure that maximum people of the state get the benefit of the developmental works, said the CM in his address on Monday in the programme organised by Directorate of AYUSH on the occasion of World Homeopathy Day at Aryabhatta Auditorium, Morhabadi.

Soren said that at present the homeopath system is very effective and important in the health care sector. It is the priority of our government to further strengthen the ancient health system. He said that in the last few months a large number of AYUSH doctors have been appointed by the State Government. Doctors have been made an integral part of the State government. Work is being done with commitment on how to strengthen the health system in the State. The role of our AYUSH doctors will be important in fulfilling the vision of Healthy Jharkhand, Prosperous Jharkhand. He said that Ayush Anganwadi homeopathic kit distribution is starting today. Make a better action plan and work on how to maximize the delivery of homeopathic kits. He said that an action plan should be prepared to make AYUSH medicines accessible to PDS holders and pensioners in the state.

Our government is worried about anaemia disease in the state. All of us together need to do better work towards making anaemia free Jharkhand. More complaints are being received in Jharkhand about anaemia in the bodies of women and children. I cannot say what is the reason for suffering from this simple disease, but thinking and brainstorming must be done on how to improve it. If we and you decide, then this problem can also be solved, he said.

You all know what is the condition of the health system in the state, I do not need to say much about it. I have full faith that you and all of us together will move forward towards improving the health system of the state. For the first time I have got the opportunity to participate in the program organized on the occasion of World Homeopathic Day. I have used homeopathic medicines many times like this, but this is the first time I have got the opportunity to know the insider things of the homeopathic system in such a forum, he added.

On this occasion, the CM inaugurated Ayush Anganwadi Homeopathic Kit and inaugurated Firstpathy Homeopathy Magazine, Firstpathy Homeopathy CME Poster and Sea Care Homeopathic book. Dr. Ramji Singh, Dr. Fazlus Sami, Dr. M. Kumar, Dr. Ramji Yadav, Dr. Somnath Dev and Dr. Rajeev Ranjan Sinha of AYUSH Sector were honoured by the CM on the occasion.

On this occasion, Health Minister Banna Gupta, Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary Health Department Arun Kumar Singh, Director AYUSH Dr. Fazlus Sami, National President of Homeopathic Medical Association of India Dr. Ram Ji Singh, Homeopath Sector Dr. Virendra Nath Maurya, Dr. Rajat Dwivedi, Dr. RP Singh, Dr. Jitendra Kumar along with officials of the concerned department and other dignitaries were present.
Upset over objections raised by their parents, young lovers tried to end their lives by slitting their throats and wrists. However, the youth later informed his friend about the incident. Both were found lying in a pool of blood inside a hotel room in Firozabad. They were rushed to a hospital where their condition was said to be critical.

On being informed, police visited the spot along with forensic experts to collect evidence from the hotel room. They were said to be waiting for the duo to regain consciousness so that their statements could be recorded. The police recovered a paper-cutting knife from the hotel room.

According to the police, both of them first slit their throats with the knife and then slashed their wrists. The youth, identified as Shubham Jain (25), hails from Gandhi Mandi area in Sirsaganj. He informed his friend Rinku about the incident over the phone and asked him to save his life.

Rinku immediately reached the hostel and sought help from the staff. Parents of the youth and the girl, identified as Riya Gupta (24)  also of Sirsaganj  were against their affair and the girls marriage was recently fixed with another youth. Upset over this, both decided to end their lives. Shubham and Riya did BTech together and Riya got a job in Bengaluru.

While working from home for two years due to Covid, she fell in love with Shubham. On Sunday afternoon, she and Shubham reached a rented room in Banke Bihari restaurant on Shikohabad highway and both tried to end their lives the same evening.

Meanwhile, in a similar incident in Mirzapur, a girl and her lover were found unconscious in Patehra forest under Sant Nagar police station on Sunday night. It was said that both consumed some poisonous substance. Villagers rushed them to the district hospital and informed local police.

Their families were later also informed about the incident. Reports said truck driver Pratap (26), a resident of Sant Nagar in Mirzapur, is married and has two children. Few months back, he fell in love with a girl in her early 20s. His wife and the girls family opposed their relationship.

On Sunday evening, both decided to end their lives as they could not go ahead with marriage. They went to nearby Patehra jungles and consumed some poisonous substance. Luckily though, some villagers passed through the area and found them lying unconscious. They rushed the duo to the district hospital where their condition was said to be critical. A case was registered in this connection and further probe was underway.
Pakistans Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah has said that PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif will return from London as soon as the electoral preparations for the general elections begin.

He also made it clear that elections in the politically crucial Punjab province will not be held on May 14 despite the Supreme Courts order and all-out efforts of the opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) led by former prime minister Imran Khan.

Former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, who is currently based in London, will return and supervise Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) partys electoral campaign, Geo News quoted the senior party leader as saying.

An ailing Nawaz has been living in London since November 2019 for medical treatment after the high court allowed him a four-week reprieve. The 73-year-old leader was serving seven-year imprisonment in the Kot Lakhpat Jail in Lahore in the Al-Azizia corruption case before his departure.

Holding provincial elections has taken centre stage in Pakistani politics as Khan has been pushing for snap elections in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces.

PTI Chairman Khan has been demanding early national elections since his ouster in April last year after he lost a confidence vote in Parliament.

The current term of the National Assembly will complete its five-year term in August this year.

According to the Constitution, elections shall be held within 90 days after the dissolution of the lower house. This means that the election must be held by mid-October. The last general election was held in July 2018.

On April 5, Paks SC termed as unconstitutional Paks EC decision to postpone polls in Punjab till October 8 and fixed May 14 as the date for polls in the province. As the date for polls in the country is being considered, Sanaullah asserted on Sunday that elections to the Punjab Assembly would not be held on May 14 despite all-out efforts of the opposition PTI, the Geo News reported.

Elections across the country would be held at the appointed time this year, he said while talking to the media in Faisalabad on Sunday.

Despite the Supreme Courts order to hold elections in Punjab on May 14 as well as pressure from the PTI, the Interior Minister said that elections would be held together under the caretaker setup.

Election wont be held on May 14 despite all-out efforts, he said.

If elections are not held in May, then October is not too far away either, the senior Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader said.

The PTI dissolved the Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa assemblies on January 14 and 18, respectively, in a bid to force the ruling coalition to hold early general elections.

Calling former prime minister Khan a fitna (chaos), Sanaullah said that he was brought to power through a conspiracy.

Their (PTIs) policies over four years created a crisis situation for the country.

The PML-N has always taken the country out of the crisis, he added.

Sanaullah said Khan used to claim that he would prefer to die by suicide instead of approaching the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

It was (Imran Khans) government that signed the agreement with the IMF, not us. The difficulties are only due to the previous governments agreement.

The incumbent government, led by the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM), has taken tough measures including increasing taxes and energy prices, and allowing its currency to weaken to restart a USD 6.5 billion IMF loan package.

The funds will offer some relief to a nation still reeling from a dollar shortage that has raised the probability of the economy slipping into a recession ahead of elections this year.

Pakistan is tackling a major economic crisis as it awaits a much-needed USD 1.1 billion tranche of funding from the Washington-based International Monetary Fund, part of a USD 6.5 billion bailout package the IMF approved in 2019.

Load-shedding and terrorism were eradicated during the PML-N tenure, the federal minister said, adding that due to the PTIs wrong policies, the country is now facing multiple crises.
Pakistani police have arrested a Chinese national working at a hydropower project in the restive Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province after local people accused him of blasphemy, police said.

The police arrested the Chinese national identified as Tian on Sunday and on Monday he was shifted to Abbottabad via an Army helicopter due to security concerns as the police feared local people could harm him, the Dawn newspaper quoted Station House Officer Naseerudin as saying.

The Chinese citizen, a manager at the Dasu Hydropower Project, the biggest hydropower project in Pakistan, in the Upper Kohistan district of the province, allegedly made blasphemous remarks on Friday when the workers were going to perform the weekly prayer. He was apparently unhappy with the progress of work at the work site.

The police registered a first information report (FIR) against Tian at the Dasu police station, hours after hundreds of residents and labourers working on the dam project blocked a key highway and rallied, demanding his arrest.

Local police officer Naseeruddin confirmed that an FIR was registered under Section 295-C (use of derogatory remarks, etc. against the Prophet) in the Pakistan Penal Code at the complaint of two workers employed as drivers of the accused.

The SHO said that Section 7 of the Anti-Terrorism Act had been included in the FIR, adding that the Chinese national would be presented before a court in Abbottabad.

Under Pakistans tough blasphemy laws, the offence carries the death penalty. According to the officer, police swung into action after getting reports on Sunday night that a local mob tried to break into a Chinese camp near the project site.

The mob was controlled, but they assembled again on Monday and blocked the Karakoram Highway, which links Pakistan with China, in a protest that lasted for over six to seven hours, demanding the Chinese nationals arrest.

The blocked highway was later reopened to traffic, and work resumed at the Dasu Dam after Tians arrest.

Scores of Chinese and hundreds of Pakistanis are working on the project. Blasphemy is a sensitive issue in Pakistan. On December 3, 2021, a Sri Lankan national working in a factory in Sialkot was lynched by a mob after workers accused him of blasphemy.

There was no immediate comment from the Chinese Embassy in Islamabad.

The hydropower project site was hit by a suicide bus blast in July 2021, in which 13 people, including nine Chinese nationals, were killed. Nine Chinese nationals and two Frontier Corps soldiers were among those killed when the bus carrying Chinese engineers and workers to the site of the under-construction Dasu Dam exploded.

The Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS), in a report in January 2022, stated that as many as 89 citizens were killed in 1,415 accusations and cases of blasphemy in the country since independence.

The report said that from 1947 to 2021, 18 women and 71 men were extra-judicially killed over blasphemy accusations. The allegations were made against 107 women and 1,308 men.

A large number of Chinese nationals have been working in Pakistan on various projects being undertaken under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.

Chinas Foreign Minister Qin Gang called on his Pakistani counterpart Bilawal Bhutto Zardari in January to assert that Beijing was concerned about the safety of its workers based in Pakistan and urged Bhutto to take strong security measures to protect them amid a spate of attacks on Chinese nationals in the country in recent months.
Sri Lankas President Ranil Wickremesinghe is expected to make a fresh call for the formation of an all-party government for the cash-strapped country when Parliament takes up the debate on the IMF bailout programme next week, a senior opposition party leader said on Monday.

In March, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) approved a USD 3 billion bailout programme to help Sri Lanka overcome its economic crisis and catalyse financial support from other development partners, a move welcomed by Colombo as a historic milestone in the critical period. He (Wickremesinghe) will make an open invitation to all political parties to join the national government when the Parliament meets on April 25 to debate on the IMF bailout programme, Mano Ganesan, the leader of the Tamil Progressive Alliance, told the media.

President Wickremesinghe, also the countrys finance minister, is keen to win the approval of the 225-member assembly for the IMF bailout package, which is a timely antidote to Sri Lankas economic travails.

In July last year, Wickremesinghe urged lawmakers from all political parties to put their differences aside and work towards lifting Sri Lanka out of the throes of the economic crisis.

The Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) party led by the powerful Rajapaksa family voted for Wickremesinghe, the leader of the United National Party (UNP), as the president in July last year.
Syrias chief diplomat has started a visit to Algeria and Tunisia as part of efforts to revive diplomatic relationships in the Arab world, more than a decade after his country was globally isolated amid President Bashar Assads brutal crackdown on mass protests against his rule.

Foreign Minister Faisal Mikdad was welcomed on Saturday in the lounge of Algiers airport by his Algerian counterpart Ahmed Attaf. In remarks broadcast by Algerian public television. Mikdad insisted that relations between the two brotherly countries exist and will continue to exist  beyond the vicissitudes of the situation.

My visit will be an opportunity for discussions between the two countries on the latest developments in the region. We need to strengthen this bilateral relationship, he added.

Algeria is one of the few Arab countries that did not cut off relations with Syria during the civil war that followed the 2011 uprising.

Mikdad notably praised Algerias help after the devastating Feb. 6 earthquake that killed tens of thousands in Syria and neighbouring Turkey.

He was also bearing a message from Assad to his Algerian counterpart, Abdelmadjid Tebboune, the Algerian official APS news agency reported.

The visit comes after Mikdads visit to Saudi Arabia on Wednesday that led both countries to announce they were moving toward reopening embassies and resuming flights for the first time in more than a decade.

Syria was widely shunned by Arab governments over Assads brutal crackdown on protesters in 2011. The breakdown in relations culminated in Syria being ousted from the Arab League.
23965 (AF.TO) (TSE:AF  Get Rating)s stock price was up 0.2% during mid-day trading on Monday . The company traded as high as C$15.98 and last traded at C$15.98. Approximately 200 shares changed hands during trading, a decline of 97% from the average daily volume of 5,949 shares. The stock had previously closed at C$15.95.

23965 (AF.TO) Trading Up 0.2 %

The company has a 50-day moving average of C$15.98.

About 23965 (AF.TO)

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AlarmForce Industries Inc is a Canada-based company, which provides security solutions. The Company provides home protection and personal monitoring services, including security alarm monitoring, personal emergency response monitoring, video surveillance, home automation and related services to subscribers.

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BT Group (OTCMKTS:BTGOF  Get Rating) had its price target lifted by JPMorgan Chase & Co. from GBX 275 ($3.40) to GBX 280 ($3.46) in a research report report published on Friday morning, The Fly reports.

A number of other brokerages have also recently weighed in on BTGOF. Citigroup upgraded BT Group from a neutral rating to a buy rating in a research report on Monday, January 9th. Jefferies Financial Group lowered their price target on BT Group from GBX 250 ($3.09) to GBX 190 ($2.35) in a research report on Monday, January 9th. Barclays lifted their price target on BT Group from GBX 220 ($2.72) to GBX 230 ($2.85) in a research report on Thursday, January 5th. Finally, UBS Group raised their price objective on BT Group from GBX 130 ($1.61) to GBX 135 ($1.67) in a research note on Wednesday, February 8th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $185.00.

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BT Group Price Performance

Shares of BTGOF opened at $1.90 on Friday. BT Group has a one year low of $1.25 and a one year high of $2.46. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $1.73 and a 200 day moving average price of $1.55.

About BT Group

BT Group Plc is a holding company, which engages in the provision of communications services. It operates through the following segments: Consumer, Enterprise, Global, Openreach, and Other. The Consumer segment offers mobile, broadband, home phone, and television services. The Enterprise segment sells communications and information technology (IT) services to businesses and public sector organizations; and provides network products and services to communications.

Further Reading

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cbdMD, Inc. (NYSEAMERICAN:YCBD  Get Rating) shares are going to reverse split on the morning of Tuesday, April 25th. The 1-45 reverse split was announced on Tuesday, April 25th. The number of shares owned by shareholders will be adjusted after the closing bell on Tuesday, April 25th.

cbdMD Stock Performance

Shares of NYSEAMERICAN:YCBD traded down $0.01 during midday trading on Monday, reaching $0.15. The company had a trading volume of 377,444 shares, compared to its average volume of 211,865. The company has a market capitalization of $9.70 million, a P/E ratio of -0.15 and a beta of 2.13. cbdMD has a 52-week low of $0.15 and a 52-week high of $0.89.

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cbdMD (NYSEAMERICAN:YCBD  Get Rating) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Monday, February 13th. The company reported ($0.08) earnings per share for the quarter. The company had revenue of $6.09 million during the quarter. cbdMD had a negative return on equity of 50.91% and a negative net margin of 170.60%.

Institutional Trading of cbdMD

cbdMD Company Profile

Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of YCBD. Renaissance Technologies LLC boosted its stake in shares of cbdMD by 49.3% during the first quarter. Renaissance Technologies LLC now owns 93,600 shares of the companys stock valued at $97,000 after purchasing an additional 30,900 shares during the period. Vident Investment Advisory LLC boosted its stake in shares of cbdMD by 68.4% during the first quarter. Vident Investment Advisory LLC now owns 119,283 shares of the companys stock valued at $124,000 after purchasing an additional 48,470 shares during the period. Cambria Investment Management L.P. boosted its stake in shares of cbdMD by 23.4% during the third quarter. Cambria Investment Management L.P. now owns 286,254 shares of the companys stock valued at $64,000 after purchasing an additional 54,214 shares during the period. Prudential Financial Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of cbdMD during the second quarter valued at approximately $32,000. Finally, Vanguard Group Inc. boosted its stake in shares of cbdMD by 11.9% during the third quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 1,304,682 shares of the companys stock valued at $294,000 after purchasing an additional 139,081 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 41.08% of the companys stock.

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cbdMD, Inc engages in the business of operating cannabidiol brands such as Paw cannabidiol and cbdMD botanicals. Its product categories include CBD tinctures, gummies, topical, and bath bombs. The company was founded by Caryn Dunayer on March 17, 2015 and is headquartered in Charlotte, NC.

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Elanco Animal Health (NYSE:ELAN  Get Rating) and Hypera (OTCMKTS:HYPMY  Get Rating) are both medical companies, but which is the better stock? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their profitability, valuation, risk, dividends, analyst recommendations, institutional ownership and earnings.

Analyst Recommendations

This is a breakdown of current ratings and target prices for Elanco Animal Health and Hypera, as reported by MarketBeat.com.

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Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Elanco Animal Health 1 6 0 0 1.86 Hypera 0 1 1 0 2.50

Elanco Animal Health presently has a consensus target price of $16.50, suggesting a potential upside of 72.77%. Given Elanco Animal Healths higher probable upside, equities research analysts plainly believe Elanco Animal Health is more favorable than Hypera.

Earnings & Valuation

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Elanco Animal Health $4.42 billion 1.06 -$78.00 million ($0.15) -63.66 Hypera $793.81 million N/A $251.25 million N/A N/A

This table compares Elanco Animal Health and Hyperas gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Hypera has lower revenue, but higher earnings than Elanco Animal Health.

Profitability

This table compares Elanco Animal Health and Hyperas net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Elanco Animal Health -1.74% 7.57% 3.50% Hypera N/A N/A N/A

Volatility and Risk

Elanco Animal Health has a beta of 0.92, suggesting that its stock price is 8% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Hypera has a beta of 0.74, suggesting that its stock price is 26% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Insider & Institutional Ownership

0.1% of Hypera shares are held by institutional investors. 6.4% of Elanco Animal Health shares are held by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, endowments and large money managers believe a stock will outperform the market over the long term.

Summary

Elanco Animal Health beats Hypera on 6 of the 11 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Elanco Animal Health

(Get Rating)

Elanco Animal Health, Inc. innovates, develops, manufactures, and markets products for pets and farm animals. It offers products through the following four categories: Companion Animal Disease Prevention, Companion Animal Therapeutics, Food Animal Future Protein & Health, and Food Animal Ruminants & Swine. The Companion Animal Disease Prevention category engages in the broadest parasiticide portfolios in the companion animal sector based on indications, species and formulations, with products that protect pets from worms, fleas and ticks. The Companion Animal Therapeutics category provides the details of a broad pain and osteoarthritis portfolio across species, modes of action, indications and disease stages. The Food Animal Future Protein & Health category includes vaccines, nutritional enzymes and animal-only antibiotics, serves the growing demand for protein and includes innovative products in poultry and aquaculture production, where demand for animal health products is outpacing overall industry growth. It also focuses on developing functional nutritional health products that promote food animal health, including enzymes, probiotics and prebiotics. The Food Animal Ruminants &

About Hypera

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Hypera S.A. operates as a pharmaceutical company in Brazil. It offers prescription products under the Adacne, Addera, apri, AmpliumG, please, Celestamine, Celestone, Celestone Soluspan, Cizax, deciprax, Derive C Micro, Micro Drift, Dermotil Fusid, Digedrat, diprogent, Diprosalic, Diprosone, diprospan, Emprol XR, Flow, Garasone, Halobex, Lipanon, moon, Lydian, macrodantin, MaxSulid, milgamma, Mioflex  A, nesina, Novotram, oximax, peridal, Peridal Suspension, PredSim, pressaliv, Quadriderm, Rizi, Rizi M, softalm, tacroz, tinodin, umma, and velunid brands. The company also provides dermo-cosmetics products under the Mantecorp Skincare brands; and consumer health products under the Apracur, Benegrip, Coristina d, Engov, Epocler, Estomazil, and other brands. In addition, it offers nutritional and vitamin supplement products under the Tamarine, Vitasay, Biotonico Fontoura, and Zero-Cal brands; and similar and generic medicines under the Neo Quimica, Sodium Diclofenac, Hydroxyzine, Dipyron, Ibuprofen, Losartan Potassium, Mal Dexchlorpheniramine, Naproxene, Paracetamol, Simethicon, Loratadine, Omeprazole, Tadalaphyl, and Desogestrel brand names. The company was formerly known as Hypermarcas S.A. and changed its name to Hypera S.A. in February 2018. Hypera S.A. is based in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

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Kelt Exploration (TSE:KEL  Get Rating) had its target price cut by CIBC from C$7.00 to C$6.50 in a report issued on Friday, BayStreet.CA reports.

Several other equities analysts have also commented on the company. Raymond James lowered Kelt Exploration from an outperform rating to a market perform rating and reduced their price target for the stock from C$7.00 to C$6.00 in a research report on Monday, January 16th. BMO Capital Markets dropped their price objective on Kelt Exploration from C$7.50 to C$7.00 in a report on Monday, March 27th. Stifel Firstegy restated a buy rating on shares of Kelt Exploration in a report on Thursday, January 12th. Scotiabank upgraded Kelt Exploration from a sector perform rating to an outperform rating and lifted their price objective for the stock from C$7.50 to C$8.50 in a report on Monday, April 10th. Finally, Stifel Nicolaus lifted their price objective on Kelt Exploration from C$6.50 to C$7.00 in a report on Monday, March 6th. One analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating and eight have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Kelt Exploration has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of C$7.80.

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Kelt Exploration Stock Performance

Kelt Exploration stock opened at C$5.08 on Friday. The stocks 50 day moving average price is C$4.73 and its 200 day moving average price is C$5.08. The firm has a market capitalization of C$975.41 million, a PE ratio of 6.27 and a beta of 2.38. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.37, a quick ratio of 0.61 and a current ratio of 1.28. Kelt Exploration has a one year low of C$4.29 and a one year high of C$8.32.

Insider Buying and Selling

About Kelt Exploration

In related news, Senior Officer Bruce Douglas Gigg sold 15,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Friday, March 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of C$4.45, for a total transaction of C$66,750.00. 16.01% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

(Get Rating)

Kelt Exploration Ltd., an oil and gas company, engages in the exploration, development, and production of crude oil and natural gas resources primarily in northwestern Alberta and northeastern British Columbia, Canada. The company markets its crude oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids production primarily to third party marketing companies.

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Mandom Co. (OTCMKTS:MDOMF  Get Rating)s stock price hit a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Monday . The stock traded as high as $11.75 and last traded at $11.75, with a volume of 0 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at $11.75.

Mandom Stock Performance

The firm has a market capitalization of $567.16 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.03 and a beta of 2.58. The companys 50 day moving average is $11.75 and its 200-day moving average is $11.75.

About Mandom

(Get Rating)

Mandom Corporation engages in the manufacture and sale of cosmetics, perfumes, and quasi-drugs in Japan, Indonesia, and internationally. The company offers a range of products, including men's everyday grooming products, as well as general fashion items, such as hair styling, skin care, and body care products; and hair coloring, scalp care, and face care products under the Gatsby and Lucido brands.

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Millicom International Cellular S.A. (OTCMKTS:MICCF  Get Rating) saw a significant increase in short interest during the month of March. As of March 31st, there was short interest totalling 232,600 shares, an increase of 33.0% from the March 15th total of 174,900 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 100 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 2,326.0 days.

Millicom International Cellular Price Performance

Shares of OTCMKTS MICCF traded up $0.70 during trading hours on Monday, hitting $18.45. 1,000 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 400. Millicom International Cellular has a one year low of $10.65 and a one year high of $25.14. The companys 50 day moving average is $17.01 and its 200 day moving average is $13.64.

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Millicom International Cellular Company Profile

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Millicom International Cellular SA engages in the cable and mobile services. It operates through the Latin America and Africa geographical segments. The Latin America segment includes the Guatemala and Honduras joint ventures. The Africa segment comprises of the operations in Tanzania. The company was founded on December 14, 1990 and is headquartered in Luxembourg.

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Mogo Inc. (TSE:MOGO  Get Rating) dropped 4.1% during mid-day trading on Monday . The company traded as low as C$0.93 and last traded at C$0.93. Approximately 43,054 shares traded hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 59% from the average daily volume of 105,700 shares. The stock had previously closed at C$0.97.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

MOGO has been the topic of a number of research reports. Eight Capital lifted their price target on shares of Mogo from C$2.25 to C$3.00 in a report on Friday, March 24th. Raymond James reduced their price target on shares of Mogo from C$2.25 to C$1.50 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Friday, March 24th.

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Mogo Stock Performance

The stock has a market capitalization of C$69.72 million, a PE ratio of -0.40 and a beta of 3.66. The company has a current ratio of 4.41, a quick ratio of 3.99 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 79.49. The businesss 50 day moving average is C$0.92 and its 200 day moving average is C$0.94.

About Mogo

Mogo Inc operates as a financial technology company in Canada and internationally. The company provides digital solutions to the consumers to get in control of their financial health. It offers Mogo app to access a digital spending account with Mogo Visa Platinum Prepaid Card; MogoCrypto that enables the buying and selling of bitcoin; MogoProtect, a free ID fraud protection and monthly credit score monitoring; MogoMortgage, a digital mortgage experience; and MogoMoney that provides access to personal loans.

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ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP  Get Rating) had its target price boosted by Morgan Stanley from $115.00 to $122.00 in a research report sent to investors on Friday, The Fly reports. The brokerage currently has an overweight rating on the energy producers stock.

A number of other brokerages also recently issued reports on COP. Bank of America raised their price target on shares of ConocoPhillips from $140.00 to $145.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Thursday, April 13th. Societe Generale raised shares of ConocoPhillips from a sell rating to a hold rating and set a $105.00 price target for the company in a research report on Wednesday, April 5th. Credit Suisse Group dropped their price objective on shares of ConocoPhillips from $145.00 to $140.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, February 3rd. Barclays dropped their price target on shares of ConocoPhillips from $160.00 to $141.00 in a research note on Thursday, March 23rd. Finally, StockNews.com started coverage on shares of ConocoPhillips in a research note on Thursday, March 16th. They set a hold rating on the stock. Six analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, fourteen have issued a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, ConocoPhillips currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $136.70.

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ConocoPhillips Price Performance

Shares of COP opened at $105.61 on Friday. The businesss 50-day moving average is $104.74 and its two-hundred day moving average is $114.85. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.34, a quick ratio of 1.36 and a current ratio of 1.46. ConocoPhillips has a fifty-two week low of $78.30 and a fifty-two week high of $138.49. The company has a market capitalization of $127.99 billion, a P/E ratio of 7.28, a P/E/G ratio of 0.57 and a beta of 1.30.

ConocoPhillips Dividend Announcement

ConocoPhillips ( NYSE:COP Get Rating ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, February 2nd. The energy producer reported $2.71 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $2.72 by ($0.01). The company had revenue of $19.26 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $18.16 billion. ConocoPhillips had a net margin of 22.74% and a return on equity of 35.30%. The companys quarterly revenue was up 20.7% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the business posted $2.27 earnings per share. Research analysts predict that ConocoPhillips will post 10.32 earnings per share for the current year.

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, April 14th. Investors of record on Wednesday, March 29th were issued a $0.51 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, March 28th. This represents a $2.04 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.93%. ConocoPhillipss payout ratio is currently 14.06%.

Insider Activity

In related news, Director R A. Walker acquired 4,800 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, February 22nd. The shares were purchased at an average cost of $103.00 per share, with a total value of $494,400.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now owns 27,600 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,842,800. The purchase was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. 0.08% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Institutional Trading of ConocoPhillips

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the company. Affiance Financial LLC bought a new stake in ConocoPhillips during the 4th quarter worth about $61,000. PFS Investments Inc. grew its stake in shares of ConocoPhillips by 12.9% during the 3rd quarter. PFS Investments Inc. now owns 6,431 shares of the energy producers stock worth $658,000 after acquiring an additional 733 shares in the last quarter. CAPROCK Group Inc. grew its stake in shares of ConocoPhillips by 60.5% during the 3rd quarter. CAPROCK Group Inc. now owns 7,683 shares of the energy producers stock worth $797,000 after acquiring an additional 2,895 shares in the last quarter. United Services Automobile Association grew its stake in shares of ConocoPhillips by 2.7% in the third quarter. United Services Automobile Association now owns 48,959 shares of the energy producers stock valued at $5,011,000 after buying an additional 1,281 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Clearstead Advisors LLC grew its stake in shares of ConocoPhillips by 7.1% in the third quarter. Clearstead Advisors LLC now owns 3,826 shares of the energy producers stock valued at $392,000 after buying an additional 253 shares in the last quarter. 81.76% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

ConocoPhillips Company Profile

(Get Rating)

ConocoPhillips engages in the exploration, production, transportation and marketing of crude oil, bitumen, natural gas, natural gas liquids, and liquefied natural gas on a worldwide basis. It operates through the following geographical segments: Alaska, Lower 48, Canada, Europe, Middle East and North Africa, Asia Pacific, and Other International.

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Neptune Orient Lines Limited (OTCMKTS:NPTOY  Get Rating) shares fell 10.2% during mid-day trading on Monday . The company traded as low as $3.68 and last traded at $3.68. 900 shares were traded during mid-day trading, a decline of 17% from the average session volume of 1,088 shares. The stock had previously closed at $4.10.

Neptune Orient Lines Stock Down 10.2 %

Neptune Orient Lines Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Neptune Orient Lines Limited is an investment holding company. The Company is engaged in the ownership and charter of vessels, as well as participates in ventures related to these activities. The Company operates through its Liner segment. The Companys Liner segment provides operations of container transportation, terminals and provision of other related services.

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Nuveen New Jersey Quality Municipal Income Fund (NYSE:NXJ  Get Rating) saw a large drop in short interest in the month of March. As of March 31st, there was short interest totalling 12,000 shares, a drop of 21.6% from the March 15th total of 15,300 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 73,500 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.2 days.

Nuveen New Jersey Quality Municipal Income Fund Trading Down 0.1 %

NYSE NXJ traded down $0.01 during trading on Monday, reaching $11.68. 87,547 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 78,241. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $11.57 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $11.44. Nuveen New Jersey Quality Municipal Income Fund has a 12-month low of $10.52 and a 12-month high of $13.24.

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Nuveen New Jersey Quality Municipal Income Fund Dividend Announcement

The business also recently announced a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, May 1st. Investors of record on Friday, April 14th will be paid a $0.0305 dividend. This represents a $0.37 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 3.13%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, April 13th.

Institutional Trading of Nuveen New Jersey Quality Municipal Income Fund

Nuveen New Jersey Quality Municipal Income Fund Company Profile

A number of institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of NXJ. Raymond James & Associates boosted its stake in Nuveen New Jersey Quality Municipal Income Fund by 7.1% in the 1st quarter. Raymond James & Associates now owns 45,439 shares of the companys stock worth $608,000 after purchasing an additional 3,024 shares in the last quarter. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. lifted its stake in Nuveen New Jersey Quality Municipal Income Fund by 0.7% during the 1st quarter. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. now owns 126,873 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,698,000 after acquiring an additional 913 shares during the period. Bank of Montreal Can acquired a new stake in Nuveen New Jersey Quality Municipal Income Fund during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $281,000. Equitable Holdings Inc. acquired a new stake in Nuveen New Jersey Quality Municipal Income Fund during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $149,000. Finally, Quantedge Capital Pte Ltd acquired a new stake in Nuveen New Jersey Quality Municipal Income Fund during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $265,000.

(Get Rating)

Nuveen New Jersey Quality Municipal Income Fund is a closed ended fixed income mutual fund launched by Nuveen Investments, Inc The fund is co-managed by Nuveen Fund Advisors LLC and Nuveen Asset Management, LLC. It invests in the fixed income markets of New Jersey. The fund invests in undervalued municipal securities and other related investments that are, exempt from regular federal and New Jersey income taxes that are rated Baa or BBB or better.

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PulteGroup (NYSE:PHM  Get Rating) had its price target lifted by Oppenheimer from $68.00 to $73.00 in a research note published on Friday, The Fly reports. Oppenheimer currently has an outperform rating on the construction companys stock.

PHM has been the topic of a number of other research reports. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised their price target on PulteGroup from $65.00 to $74.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Thursday, February 2nd. The Goldman Sachs Group lifted their price objective on PulteGroup from $45.00 to $50.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Thursday, January 12th. Wolfe Research upgraded PulteGroup from a peer perform rating to an outperform rating and set a $64.00 price objective on the stock in a report on Wednesday, March 22nd. Wedbush lifted their price objective on PulteGroup from $47.00 to $57.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Wednesday, February 1st. Finally, Credit Suisse Group lifted their price objective on PulteGroup from $52.00 to $61.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Wednesday, February 1st. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twelve have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, PulteGroup has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $62.21.

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PulteGroup Trading Up 0.7 %

NYSE PHM opened at $60.59 on Friday. The stocks 50-day simple moving average is $56.16 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $48.80. PulteGroup has a twelve month low of $35.03 and a twelve month high of $60.89. The company has a quick ratio of 0.62, a current ratio of 0.62 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.23. The company has a market capitalization of $13.59 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 5.46, a PEG ratio of 0.51 and a beta of 1.33.

PulteGroup Announces Dividend

PulteGroup ( NYSE:PHM Get Rating ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, January 31st. The construction company reported $3.63 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.88 by $0.75. PulteGroup had a return on equity of 31.85% and a net margin of 16.13%. The business had revenue of $5.17 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $4.59 billion. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $2.51 earnings per share. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 18.7% on a year-over-year basis. Research analysts forecast that PulteGroup will post 7.44 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, April 4th. Shareholders of record on Monday, March 20th were given a dividend of $0.16 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, March 17th. This represents a $0.64 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.06%. PulteGroups payout ratio is 5.77%.

Insider Buying and Selling at PulteGroup

In other PulteGroup news, VP John J. Chadwick sold 29,817 shares of PulteGroup stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, February 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of $56.63, for a total transaction of $1,688,536.71. Following the sale, the vice president now directly owns 87,428 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $4,951,047.64. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. In other PulteGroup news, EVP Todd N. Sheldon sold 15,998 shares of PulteGroup stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, March 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $53.83, for a total transaction of $861,172.34. Following the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 82,339 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $4,432,308.37. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, VP John J. Chadwick sold 29,817 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, February 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of $56.63, for a total value of $1,688,536.71. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president now directly owns 87,428 shares in the company, valued at $4,951,047.64. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last three months, insiders have sold 50,739 shares of company stock valued at $2,845,149. 0.83% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Institutional Trading of PulteGroup

A number of hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in PHM. American Century Companies Inc. boosted its position in shares of PulteGroup by 9.5% in the 1st quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 55,196 shares of the construction companys stock worth $2,313,000 after purchasing an additional 4,799 shares in the last quarter. Cetera Advisor Networks LLC bought a new stake in shares of PulteGroup in the 1st quarter worth approximately $221,000. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. boosted its position in shares of PulteGroup by 1.7% in the 1st quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 22,505 shares of the construction companys stock worth $945,000 after purchasing an additional 382 shares in the last quarter. Acadian Asset Management LLC boosted its position in shares of PulteGroup by 11.1% in the 1st quarter. Acadian Asset Management LLC now owns 4,487 shares of the construction companys stock worth $188,000 after purchasing an additional 449 shares in the last quarter. Finally, MetLife Investment Management LLC boosted its position in shares of PulteGroup by 26.7% in the 1st quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC now owns 70,856 shares of the construction companys stock worth $2,969,000 after purchasing an additional 14,918 shares in the last quarter. 88.07% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

PulteGroup Company Profile

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PulteGroup, Inc engages in the homebuilding business. The firm is also involved in mortgage banking and title and insurance brokerage operations. It operates through the Homebuilding and Financial services business segments. The Homebuilding segment includes operations from Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, Texas, Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, and Washington.

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Urstadt Biddle Properties Inc. (NYSE:UBA  Get Rating) was the target of a significant decrease in short interest in March. As of March 31st, there was short interest totalling 406,200 shares, a decrease of 19.1% from the March 15th total of 501,800 shares. Currently, 1.4% of the companys stock are short sold. Based on an average trading volume of 126,300 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 3.2 days.

Urstadt Biddle Properties Stock Up 2.0 %

Shares of NYSE UBA traded up $0.34 during mid-day trading on Monday, reaching $17.54. 68,670 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 123,136. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.00, a current ratio of 3.96 and a quick ratio of 3.96. The business has a 50-day simple moving average of $17.50 and a 200 day simple moving average of $18.03. The stock has a market cap of $689.85 million, a P/E ratio of 24.23 and a beta of 1.11. Urstadt Biddle Properties has a 1-year low of $15.07 and a 1-year high of $19.36.

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Urstadt Biddle Properties Announces Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, April 14th. Shareholders of record on Monday, April 3rd were issued a dividend of $0.25 per share. This represents a $1.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 5.70%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, March 31st. Urstadt Biddle Propertiess dividend payout ratio is currently 140.85%.

Institutional Trading of Urstadt Biddle Properties

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Penserra Capital Management LLC increased its holdings in Urstadt Biddle Properties by 10.8% during the 3rd quarter. Penserra Capital Management LLC now owns 18,926 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $293,000 after purchasing an additional 1,840 shares in the last quarter. State Board of Administration of Florida Retirement System increased its holdings in Urstadt Biddle Properties by 80.2% during the 3rd quarter. State Board of Administration of Florida Retirement System now owns 87,607 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $1,359,000 after purchasing an additional 38,987 shares in the last quarter. Cambria Investment Management L.P. increased its holdings in Urstadt Biddle Properties by 53.8% during the 3rd quarter. Cambria Investment Management L.P. now owns 20,000 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $310,000 after purchasing an additional 7,000 shares in the last quarter. Grace & White Inc. NY increased its holdings in Urstadt Biddle Properties by 2.4% during the 3rd quarter. Grace & White Inc. NY now owns 324,927 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $5,040,000 after purchasing an additional 7,600 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Baker Ellis Asset Management LLC increased its holdings in Urstadt Biddle Properties by 4.1% during the 3rd quarter. Baker Ellis Asset Management LLC now owns 78,422 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $1,216,000 after purchasing an additional 3,087 shares in the last quarter. 52.26% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

Separately, StockNews.com downgraded Urstadt Biddle Properties from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Saturday, March 25th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and two have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $19.00.

Urstadt Biddle Properties Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Urstadt Biddle Properties, Inc operates as a real estate investment trust, which engages in the acquisition, ownership, and management of commercial properties. It operates through the Ridgeway and All Other Operating segments. The company was founded on July 7, 1969 and is headquartered in Greenwich, CT.

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The Toro Company (NYSE:TTC  Get Rating) saw a large decline in short interest in the month of March. As of March 31st, there was short interest totalling 1,210,000 shares, a decline of 20.9% from the March 15th total of 1,530,000 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 674,500 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 1.8 days. Approximately 1.2% of the shares of the company are sold short.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Toro news, Director Gary Lee Ellis sold 5,104 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, March 22nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $110.52, for a total transaction of $564,094.08. Following the transaction, the director now owns 32,108 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,548,576.16. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. In other news, CEO Richard M. Olson sold 12,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, March 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of $109.40, for a total transaction of $1,312,800.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 17,913 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,959,682.20. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. Also, Director Gary Lee Ellis sold 5,104 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, March 22nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $110.52, for a total value of $564,094.08. Following the sale, the director now directly owns 32,108 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,548,576.16. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last 90 days, insiders have sold 59,634 shares of company stock worth $6,516,758. Company insiders own 2.22% of the companys stock.

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Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Several institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Oregon Public Employees Retirement Fund increased its holdings in Toro by 0.3% in the 4th quarter. Oregon Public Employees Retirement Fund now owns 30,580 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,462,000 after buying an additional 91 shares during the period. Oppenheimer Asset Management Inc. grew its holdings in shares of Toro by 0.7% during the 3rd quarter. Oppenheimer Asset Management Inc. now owns 12,892 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,115,000 after purchasing an additional 93 shares during the last quarter. IFP Advisors Inc grew its holdings in shares of Toro by 20.0% during the 4th quarter. IFP Advisors Inc now owns 594 shares of the companys stock valued at $40,000 after purchasing an additional 99 shares during the last quarter. Utah Retirement Systems grew its holdings in shares of Toro by 0.5% during the 3rd quarter. Utah Retirement Systems now owns 18,638 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,612,000 after purchasing an additional 100 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Louisiana State Employees Retirement System grew its holdings in shares of Toro by 0.4% during the 4th quarter. Louisiana State Employees Retirement System now owns 27,900 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,158,000 after purchasing an additional 100 shares during the last quarter. 85.14% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Toro Trading Up 0.6 %

TTC traded up $0.61 during trading on Monday, hitting $105.37. The companys stock had a trading volume of 402,751 shares, compared to its average volume of 670,926. The firms 50 day moving average price is $109.32 and its 200-day moving average price is $108.28. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.76, a current ratio of 1.78 and a quick ratio of 0.63. The stock has a market cap of $10.99 billion, a PE ratio of 23.11 and a beta of 0.72. Toro has a twelve month low of $71.86 and a twelve month high of $117.66.

Toro (NYSE:TTC  Get Rating) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, March 9th. The company reported $0.98 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.91 by $0.07. The company had revenue of $1.15 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.16 billion. Toro had a return on equity of 36.04% and a net margin of 10.16%. Toros revenue was up 23.2% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $0.66 EPS. On average, analysts expect that Toro will post 4.9 earnings per share for the current year.

Toro Announces Dividend

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, April 19th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, April 6th will be issued a $0.34 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, April 5th. This represents a $1.36 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.29%. Toros dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 29.82%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of research firms recently issued reports on TTC. StockNews.com raised Toro from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, March 23rd. Raymond James raised Toro from a market perform rating to an outperform rating and set a $130.00 target price on the stock in a research note on Friday, December 23rd. Northland Securities began coverage on Toro in a research note on Monday. They issued a market perform rating and a $110.00 target price on the stock. Finally, Robert W. Baird reduced their target price on Toro from $120.00 to $116.00 in a research note on Thursday, December 22nd. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have given a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, Toro currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $118.67.

Toro Company Profile

(Get Rating)

The Toro Co is in the business of designing, manufacturing, marketing, and selling professional turf maintenance equipment and services. It operates through the following segments: Professional and Residential. The Professional segment consists of turf and landscape equipment, rental, specialty, and underground construction equipment, snow & ice management equipment, and irrigation and lighting products.

Further Reading

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Tourmaline Oil Corp. (TSE:TOU  Get Rating) Director Janet Weiss acquired 350 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, April 17th. The stock was bought at an average cost of C$45.58 per share, with a total value of C$15,953.00.

Tourmaline Oil Stock Up 1.0 %

Shares of Tourmaline Oil stock traded up C$0.61 on Monday, reaching C$61.10. 4,443,725 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 2,397,118. The stocks 50 day moving average price is C$58.02 and its 200-day moving average price is C$67.72. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 4.60, a current ratio of 1.56 and a quick ratio of 0.47. The company has a market cap of C$20.71 billion, a P/E ratio of 4.65, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.72 and a beta of 1.58. Tourmaline Oil Corp. has a 1-year low of C$52.34 and a 1-year high of C$84.33.

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Tourmaline Oil Announces Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 31st. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, March 15th were issued a $0.25 dividend. This represents a $1.00 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.64%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Tuesday, March 14th. Tourmaline Oils payout ratio is currently 7.63%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

About Tourmaline Oil

TOU has been the topic of several research reports. Stifel Firstegy reiterated a buy rating on shares of Tourmaline Oil in a report on Thursday, January 12th. ATB Capital decreased their target price on Tourmaline Oil from C$95.00 to C$90.00 in a research report on Wednesday, March 8th. Barclays set a C$85.00 price objective on Tourmaline Oil and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Wednesday, January 18th. BMO Capital Markets decreased their price objective on Tourmaline Oil from C$78.00 to C$75.00 in a report on Monday. Finally, Raymond James reduced their price target on Tourmaline Oil from C$90.00 to C$85.00 in a report on Tuesday, April 11th. Seven equities research analysts have rated the stock with a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Buy and a consensus target price of C$87.50.

(Get Rating)

Tourmaline Oil Corp. acquires, explores for, develops, and produces oil and natural gas properties in the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin. It holds interests in properties located in the Alberta Deep Basin, Northeast British Columbia Montney, and the Peace River High Triassic oil complex. The company was incorporated in 2008 and is headquartered in Calgary, Canada.

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Alera Investment Advisors LLC cut its holdings in shares of Union Pacific Co. (NYSE:UNP  Get Rating) by 1.7% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 4,154 shares of the railroad operators stock after selling 73 shares during the quarter. Alera Investment Advisors LLCs holdings in Union Pacific were worth $860,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other large investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Power Corp of Canada bought a new stake in shares of Union Pacific during the first quarter valued at approximately $40,000. SJS Investment Consulting Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Union Pacific during the third quarter valued at approximately $44,000. Ten Capital Wealth Advisors LLC increased its stake in Union Pacific by 162.9% during the 3rd quarter. Ten Capital Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 234 shares of the railroad operators stock valued at $46,000 after purchasing an additional 145 shares in the last quarter. Boyd Watterson Asset Management LLC OH bought a new stake in shares of Union Pacific in the 4th quarter worth $54,000. Finally, Fiduciary Alliance LLC bought a new position in shares of Union Pacific during the 4th quarter valued at $55,000. 77.27% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Union Pacific Stock Up 0.1 %

Shares of UNP stock traded up $0.12 on Tuesday, hitting $200.16. The stock had a trading volume of 728,880 shares, compared to its average volume of 3,437,910. The business has a 50 day moving average of $199.14 and a 200 day moving average of $203.56. The stock has a market cap of $122.15 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.83, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.74 and a beta of 1.11. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.60, a current ratio of 0.72 and a quick ratio of 0.58. Union Pacific Co. has a 12-month low of $183.69 and a 12-month high of $250.52.

Union Pacific Announces Dividend

Union Pacific ( NYSE:UNP Get Rating ) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, January 24th. The railroad operator reported $2.67 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $2.75 by ($0.08). The business had revenue of $6.18 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $6.26 billion. Union Pacific had a net margin of 28.13% and a return on equity of 58.41%. The businesss revenue was up 7.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned $2.66 earnings per share. As a group, analysts expect that Union Pacific Co. will post 11.42 EPS for the current year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 31st. Investors of record on Tuesday, February 28th were issued a $1.30 dividend. This represents a $5.20 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.60%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, February 27th. Union Pacifics dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 46.35%.

Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, EVP Elizabeth F. Whited sold 2,500 shares of Union Pacific stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, February 27th. The shares were sold at an average price of $213.00, for a total value of $532,500.00. Following the sale, the executive vice president now owns 39,080 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $8,324,040. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. 0.30% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

UNP has been the subject of several research analyst reports. Raymond James cut their target price on Union Pacific from $235.00 to $225.00 and set a strong-buy rating for the company in a research report on Friday. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft lowered their price objective on Union Pacific from $215.00 to $207.00 in a research report on Wednesday, March 15th. BMO Capital Markets decreased their target price on shares of Union Pacific from $250.00 to $245.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, January 25th. Evercore ISI upgraded Union Pacific from an in-line rating to an outperform rating and increased their price target for the stock from $204.00 to $232.00 in a research report on Tuesday, December 20th. Finally, Bank of America upgraded Union Pacific from a neutral rating to a buy rating and raised their target price for the company from $218.00 to $241.00 in a research report on Monday, February 27th. Thirteen research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, nine have issued a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $217.96.

About Union Pacific

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Union Pacific Corp. engages in the provision of railroad and freight transportation services. The company was founded in 1969 and is headquartered in Omaha, NE.

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Klingenstein Fields & Co. LP grew its holdings in shares of American Tower Co. (NYSE:AMT  Get Rating) by 0.1% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 155,474 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after purchasing an additional 94 shares during the period. American Tower makes up about 1.7% of Klingenstein Fields & Co. LPs holdings, making the stock its 17th biggest position. Klingenstein Fields & Co. LPs holdings in American Tower were worth $32,939,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its position in American Tower by 0.7% during the 3rd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 60,720,664 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $13,036,726,000 after purchasing an additional 406,906 shares during the period. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP boosted its stake in shares of American Tower by 1.5% during the 3rd quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP now owns 6,223,809 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $1,336,250,000 after acquiring an additional 91,188 shares in the last quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD boosted its stake in shares of American Tower by 1.8% during the 3rd quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 5,191,334 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $1,115,635,000 after acquiring an additional 89,868 shares in the last quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA boosted its stake in shares of American Tower by 8.8% during the 3rd quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA now owns 5,073,686 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $1,089,321,000 after acquiring an additional 408,300 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Nuveen Asset Management LLC boosted its stake in shares of American Tower by 19.5% during the 3rd quarter. Nuveen Asset Management LLC now owns 4,658,127 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $1,000,100,000 after acquiring an additional 760,958 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 89.65% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

Several brokerages have recently commented on AMT. Barclays decreased their price target on American Tower from $246.00 to $229.00 in a research note on Thursday, March 23rd. StockNews.com began coverage on American Tower in a research note on Thursday, March 16th. They set a hold rating on the stock. The Goldman Sachs Group raised American Tower from a neutral rating to a buy rating and boosted their price target for the stock from $215.00 to $245.00 in a research note on Tuesday, January 10th. Truist Financial reduced their target price on American Tower from $325.00 to $275.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, January 13th. Finally, Moffett Nathanson raised American Tower from a market perform rating to an outperform rating and reduced their target price for the company from $244.00 to $234.00 in a research note on Thursday, March 30th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and fourteen have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $257.24.

American Tower Trading Down 0.8 %

Shares of American Tower stock traded down $1.72 during trading hours on Tuesday, reaching $207.11. 511,721 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 2,047,030. American Tower Co. has a 52-week low of $178.17 and a 52-week high of $282.47. The firm has a market capitalization of $96.44 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 54.38, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.99 and a beta of 0.57. The company has a fifty day moving average of $203.59 and a 200-day moving average of $209.19. The company has a current ratio of 0.54, a quick ratio of 0.54 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.75.

American Tower (NYSE:AMT  Get Rating) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, February 23rd. The real estate investment trust reported ($1.47) earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $2.16 by ($3.63). The business had revenue of $2.71 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $2.68 billion. American Tower had a return on equity of 15.80% and a net margin of 16.49%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 10.6% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned $2.18 EPS. Sell-side analysts forecast that American Tower Co. will post 9.26 EPS for the current fiscal year.

American Tower Announces Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, April 28th. Stockholders of record on Friday, April 14th will be issued a dividend of $1.56 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, April 13th. This represents a $6.24 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.01%. American Towers payout ratio is 162.50%.

Insider Transactions at American Tower

In other news, Director Samme L. Thompson sold 1,739 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Monday, February 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of $218.59, for a total transaction of $380,128.01. Following the completion of the sale, the director now directly owns 22,099 shares in the company, valued at approximately $4,830,620.41. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this link. Insiders own 0.24% of the companys stock.

About American Tower

(Get Rating)

American Tower Corp. provides real estate investment services, and owns, operates, and develops multi-tenant real estate properties. It offers leasing of space on communications sites to wireless service providers, radio and television broadcast companies. It operates through the following segments: U.S.

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Bunge Limited (NYSE:BG  Get Rating) saw a significant growth in short interest in March. As of March 31st, there was short interest totalling 4,550,000 shares, a growth of 82.7% from the March 15th total of 2,490,000 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 1,880,000 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 2.4 days.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Bunge

Several large investors have recently modified their holdings of BG. State of Alaska Department of Revenue grew its stake in Bunge by 213.9% during the first quarter. State of Alaska Department of Revenue now owns 30,495 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $2,912,000 after buying an additional 20,780 shares in the last quarter. Czech National Bank acquired a new position in Bunge during the 1st quarter worth approximately $1,686,000. Uncommon Cents Investing LLC boosted its position in Bunge by 1.4% in the first quarter. Uncommon Cents Investing LLC now owns 31,110 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $2,972,000 after buying an additional 435 shares in the last quarter. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. grew its stake in shares of Bunge by 31.5% during the first quarter. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. now owns 13,031 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $1,245,000 after buying an additional 3,125 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Carolina Wealth Advisors LLC grew its stake in shares of Bunge by 967.5% during the first quarter. Carolina Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 38,869 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $3,713,000 after buying an additional 35,228 shares during the last quarter. 82.62% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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Bunge Price Performance

Shares of NYSE BG opened at $95.75 on Tuesday. The company has a fifty day moving average price of $96.19 and a 200 day moving average price of $96.42. The firm has a market cap of $14.36 billion, a PE ratio of 9.10 and a beta of 0.65. The company has a current ratio of 1.75, a quick ratio of 0.87 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.33. Bunge has a 1-year low of $80.41 and a 1-year high of $128.40.

Bunge Dividend Announcement

Bunge ( NYSE:BG Get Rating ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, February 8th. The basic materials company reported $3.24 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $3.19 by $0.05. The business had revenue of $16.66 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $18.20 billion. Bunge had a return on equity of 22.89% and a net margin of 2.39%. Bunges quarterly revenue was down .1% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the company earned $3.49 earnings per share. Research analysts predict that Bunge will post 11.79 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, June 2nd. Shareholders of record on Friday, May 19th will be given a dividend of $0.625 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, May 18th. This represents a $2.50 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.61%. Bunges dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 23.76%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of analysts recently weighed in on the stock. StockNews.com lowered shares of Bunge from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Thursday, April 13th. Robert W. Baird cut Bunge from an outperform rating to a neutral rating and lowered their target price for the company from $127.00 to $115.00 in a research note on Thursday, February 9th. BMO Capital Markets assumed coverage on Bunge in a research note on Thursday, April 13th. They set an outperform rating and a $120.00 price target on the stock. Finally, Morgan Stanley lowered their price objective on Bunge from $120.00 to $105.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, April 13th. Three analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eight have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $122.60.

About Bunge

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Bunge Ltd. operates as a holding company. engages in the supply and transportation of agricultural commodities. It operates through the following segments: Agribusiness, Refined and Specialty Oils, Milling, and Sugar and Bioenergy. The Agribusiness segment is involved in the purchase, storage, transportation, processing, and sale of agricultural commodities and commodity products.

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Canadian Natural Resources (TSE:CNQ  Get Rating) (NYSE:CNQ) had its price objective raised by National Bankshares from C$100.00 to C$110.00 in a research note issued on Tuesday, BayStreet.CA reports. National Bankshares target price indicates a potential upside of 34.52% from the companys current price.

Several other equities analysts also recently commented on the company. ATB Capital dropped their target price on Canadian Natural Resources from C$94.00 to C$90.00 in a research report on Monday. Raymond James dropped their target price on Canadian Natural Resources from C$87.00 to C$85.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Monday, January 16th. Stifel Firstegy reiterated a buy rating on shares of Canadian Natural Resources in a research report on Thursday, January 12th. Stifel Nicolaus set a C$97.00 price objective on Canadian Natural Resources and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Friday, January 13th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company raised their price objective on Canadian Natural Resources from C$76.00 to C$82.00 in a research report on Friday, March 3rd. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and five have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of C$91.21.

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Canadian Natural Resources Price Performance

Shares of CNQ traded down C$0.46 during trading hours on Tuesday, hitting C$81.77. 808,485 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 6,216,462. The company has a market cap of C$89.95 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 8.62, a P/E/G ratio of 0.53 and a beta of 2.02. Canadian Natural Resources has a fifty-two week low of C$58.75 and a fifty-two week high of C$88.18. The company has a quick ratio of 0.54, a current ratio of 0.82 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 34.01. The firms fifty day moving average is C$76.84 and its 200 day moving average is C$77.09.

Insiders Place Their Bets

About Canadian Natural Resources

In other Canadian Natural Resources news, Director Norman Murray Edwards sold 200,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, January 23rd. The stock was sold at an average price of C$81.38, for a total value of C$16,276,320.00. Following the completion of the sale, the director now owns 21,259,336 shares in the company, valued at approximately C$1,730,118,778.62. In other news, Director Norman Murray Edwards sold 200,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, January 23rd. The stock was sold at an average price of C$81.38, for a total value of C$16,276,320.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now owns 21,259,336 shares in the company, valued at approximately C$1,730,118,778.62. Also, Director Stephen W. Laut sold 5,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, March 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of C$80.78, for a total value of C$403,875.00. In the last 90 days, insiders sold 269,000 shares of company stock worth $21,881,897. 2.22% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

(Get Rating)

Canadian Natural Resources Limited acquires, explores for, develops, produces, markets, and sells crude oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids (NGLs). The company offers synthetic crude oil (SCO), light and medium crude oil, bitumen (thermal oil), primary heavy crude oil, and Pelican Lake heavy crude oil.

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Capstone Copper (TSE:CS  Get Rating) had its price target upped by research analysts at Royal Bank of Canada from C$6.00 to C$8.00 in a research report issued on Tuesday, BayStreet.CA reports. Royal Bank of Canadas target price would suggest a potential upside of 12.99% from the companys previous close.

Several other research firms also recently weighed in on CS. Scotiabank decreased their price target on shares of Capstone Copper from C$9.00 to C$8.75 in a research note on Tuesday. National Bank Financial upgraded shares of Capstone Copper from a sector perform spec overwgt rating to an outperform spec overweight rating in a report on Sunday, January 8th. TD Securities lifted their price objective on shares of Capstone Copper from C$7.00 to C$7.50 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, February 22nd. National Bankshares lifted their price objective on shares of Capstone Copper from C$7.25 to C$7.75 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Tuesday. Finally, CIBC lifted their price objective on shares of Capstone Copper from C$6.25 to C$7.25 in a report on Tuesday, April 4th. Seven equities research analysts have rated the stock with a buy rating, According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Buy and an average target price of C$7.36.

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Capstone Copper Stock Up 4.4 %

CS traded up C$0.30 during midday trading on Tuesday, hitting C$7.08. The company had a trading volume of 1,388,586 shares, compared to its average volume of 2,037,965. Capstone Copper has a 52 week low of C$2.25 and a 52 week high of C$7.14. The company has a quick ratio of 0.98, a current ratio of 1.40 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 23.99. The company has a market capitalization of C$4.90 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 27.23, a PEG ratio of -0.09 and a beta of 2.16. The stocks 50 day moving average price is C$6.06 and its 200 day moving average price is C$5.13.

Capstone Copper Company Profile

Capstone Copper Corp. operates as a copper mining company with focus on the Americas. It owns and operates the Pinto Valley copper mine located in Arizona, the United States; the Cozamin copper-silver mine located in Zacatecas, Mexico; the Mantos Blancos copper-silver mine located in the Antofagasta region, Chile; and 70% of the Mantoverde copper-gold mine located in the Atacama region, Chile.

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Covea Finance reduced its stake in Waste Management, Inc. (NYSE:WM  Get Rating) by 2.8% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 257,237 shares of the business services providers stock after selling 7,331 shares during the period. Waste Management accounts for approximately 2.0% of Covea Finances investment portfolio, making the stock its 12th biggest position. Covea Finance owned approximately 0.06% of Waste Management worth $40,355,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the company. Allworth Financial LP raised its holdings in Waste Management by 0.7% during the 3rd quarter. Allworth Financial LP now owns 9,952 shares of the business services providers stock worth $1,594,000 after purchasing an additional 66 shares during the last quarter. LWM Advisory Services LLC raised its stake in Waste Management by 3.5% in the 3rd quarter. LWM Advisory Services LLC now owns 1,966 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $315,000 after acquiring an additional 66 shares during the period. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. raised its stake in Waste Management by 3.8% in the 4th quarter. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. now owns 1,876 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $294,000 after acquiring an additional 68 shares during the period. Financial Advocates Investment Management raised its stake in Waste Management by 1.7% in the 3rd quarter. Financial Advocates Investment Management now owns 4,055 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $650,000 after acquiring an additional 69 shares during the period. Finally, Gamble Jones Investment Counsel grew its holdings in Waste Management by 5.1% during the 3rd quarter. Gamble Jones Investment Counsel now owns 1,430 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $229,000 after buying an additional 70 shares in the last quarter. 78.48% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, CFO Devina A. Rankin sold 200 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Monday, February 13th. The stock was sold at an average price of $155.00, for a total transaction of $31,000.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief financial officer now directly owns 64,317 shares in the company, valued at approximately $9,969,135. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. In related news, CFO Devina A. Rankin sold 200 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Monday, February 13th. The stock was sold at an average price of $155.00, for a total transaction of $31,000.00. Following the sale, the chief financial officer now directly owns 64,317 shares of the companys stock, valued at $9,969,135. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, EVP John J. Morris sold 15,204 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Friday, February 17th. The stock was sold at an average price of $155.03, for a total value of $2,357,076.12. Following the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 95,461 shares in the company, valued at $14,799,318.83. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold 30,743 shares of company stock worth $4,762,320 in the last three months. 0.27% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Waste Management Trading Down 0.0 %

A number of research analysts have weighed in on the company. StockNews.com assumed coverage on Waste Management in a report on Thursday, March 16th. They set a buy rating for the company. Stifel Nicolaus lowered Waste Management from a buy rating to a hold rating and cut their price objective for the stock from $185.00 to $171.00 in a report on Monday, December 19th. UBS Group lowered Waste Management from a buy rating to a neutral rating and cut their price objective for the stock from $190.00 to $165.00 in a report on Tuesday, January 10th. Truist Financial began coverage on Waste Management in a report on Monday. They set a buy rating and a $190.00 price objective for the company. Finally, TD Cowen began coverage on Waste Management in a report on Thursday, March 30th. They set an outperform rating and a $200.00 price objective for the company. Six research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $174.67.

Shares of NYSE WM traded down $0.06 during trading hours on Tuesday, hitting $165.34. 555,255 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 1,841,976. The companys 50 day moving average price is $155.05 and its 200 day moving average price is $157.64. The stock has a market capitalization of $67.26 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 30.69, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.53 and a beta of 0.73. The company has a current ratio of 0.81, a quick ratio of 0.77 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.12. Waste Management, Inc. has a 12 month low of $138.89 and a 12 month high of $175.98.

Waste Management (NYSE:WM  Get Rating) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, February 1st. The business services provider reported $1.30 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.39 by ($0.09). Waste Management had a return on equity of 32.91% and a net margin of 11.36%. The firm had revenue of $4.94 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $4.97 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company posted $1.26 earnings per share. Waste Managements quarterly revenue was up 5.5% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, equities research analysts anticipate that Waste Management, Inc. will post 6 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Waste Management Increases Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 24th. Investors of record on Friday, March 10th were paid a dividend of $0.70 per share. This is a boost from Waste Managements previous quarterly dividend of $0.65. This represents a $2.80 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.69%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, March 9th. Waste Managements dividend payout ratio is 51.95%.

About Waste Management

(Get Rating)

Waste Management, Inc is a holding company, which engages in the provision of waste management environmental services. It operates through the following segments: East Tier, West Tier, and Other. The East Tier segment consists of Eastern U.S., the Great Lakes Region, and Canada. The West Tier segment includes the upper Midwest region and British Columbia, Canada.

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Dfpg Investments LLC cut its position in iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF (BATS:FLOT  Get Rating) by 1.7% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 50,543 shares of the companys stock after selling 860 shares during the period. Dfpg Investments LLCs holdings in iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF were worth $2,548,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other large investors also recently made changes to their positions in the company. TBH Global Asset Management LLC grew its position in shares of iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF by 2.1% during the 3rd quarter. TBH Global Asset Management LLC now owns 9,832 shares of the companys stock valued at $494,000 after purchasing an additional 200 shares in the last quarter. Oxinas Partners Wealth Management LLC grew its position in shares of iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF by 0.3% during the 4th quarter. Oxinas Partners Wealth Management LLC now owns 77,720 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,912,000 after purchasing an additional 212 shares in the last quarter. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich grew its position in shares of iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF by 1.6% during the 4th quarter. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich now owns 13,625 shares of the companys stock valued at $686,000 after purchasing an additional 215 shares in the last quarter. Independent Wealth Network Inc. grew its position in shares of iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF by 0.7% during the 4th quarter. Independent Wealth Network Inc. now owns 39,499 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,988,000 after purchasing an additional 256 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Level Four Advisory Services LLC grew its position in shares of iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF by 6.2% during the 3rd quarter. Level Four Advisory Services LLC now owns 4,746 shares of the companys stock valued at $239,000 after purchasing an additional 275 shares in the last quarter.

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iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF Stock Performance

FLOT opened at $50.45 on Tuesday. The company has a fifty day moving average price of $50.41 and a 200-day moving average price of $50.33. iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF has a one year low of $50.76 and a one year high of $51.10.

iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF Profile

The iShares Floating Rate Bond ETF (FLOT) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in investment grade fixed income. The fund tracks a market value-weighted index of USD-denominated, investment-grade floating rate notes with maturities of 0-5 years. FLOT was launched on Jun 14, 2011 and is managed by BlackRock.

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Farmers & Merchants Investments Inc. raised its position in shares of Fortis Inc. (NYSE:FTS  Get Rating) by 1.0% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The fund owned 111,103 shares of the utilities providers stock after buying an additional 1,091 shares during the quarter. Farmers & Merchants Investments Inc.s holdings in Fortis were worth $4,449,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the company. Cigna Investments Inc. New grew its stake in shares of Fortis by 7.0% during the 3rd quarter. Cigna Investments Inc. New now owns 9,467 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $361,000 after purchasing an additional 621 shares during the period. Aviva PLC lifted its holdings in Fortis by 6.4% in the 3rd quarter. Aviva PLC now owns 415,468 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $15,856,000 after purchasing an additional 25,113 shares in the last quarter. Van ECK Associates Corp raised its holdings in shares of Fortis by 6.1% during the 3rd quarter. Van ECK Associates Corp now owns 97,004 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $3,681,000 after acquiring an additional 5,613 shares during the period. Cubist Systematic Strategies LLC raised its holdings in shares of Fortis by 1,306.8% during the 3rd quarter. Cubist Systematic Strategies LLC now owns 213,213 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $8,101,000 after acquiring an additional 198,057 shares during the period. Finally, Montrusco Bolton Investments Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Fortis by 102.4% during the 4th quarter. Montrusco Bolton Investments Inc. now owns 413,784 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $16,546,000 after acquiring an additional 209,315 shares during the period. 49.59% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Fortis Stock Up 0.1 %

Shares of FTS opened at $44.42 on Tuesday. Fortis Inc. has a 52 week low of $34.76 and a 52 week high of $51.46. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.24, a quick ratio of 0.55 and a current ratio of 0.65. The firm has a market capitalization of $21.52 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 20.85, a PEG ratio of 3.66 and a beta of 0.44. The businesss fifty day moving average price is $41.37 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $40.33.

Fortis Increases Dividend

Fortis ( NYSE:FTS Get Rating ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Friday, February 10th. The utilities provider reported $0.53 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, meeting the consensus estimate of $0.53. The firm had revenue of $2.33 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.06 billion. Fortis had a return on equity of 6.48% and a net margin of 12.20%. On average, analysts predict that Fortis Inc. will post 2.18 earnings per share for the current year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, June 1st. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, May 17th will be issued a dividend of $0.4211 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, May 16th. This is an increase from Fortiss previous quarterly dividend of $0.42. This represents a $1.68 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.79%. Fortiss dividend payout ratio is 79.34%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of brokerages have recently commented on FTS. National Bank Financial boosted their price objective on Fortis from C$55.00 to C$56.00 in a research report on Monday, February 13th. StockNews.com assumed coverage on Fortis in a report on Thursday, March 16th. They issued a hold rating on the stock. Scotiabank increased their target price on Fortis from C$57.00 to C$58.00 in a research report on Monday, January 23rd. Royal Bank of Canada restated a sector perform rating and issued a $65.00 price objective on shares of Fortis in a report on Friday, March 24th. Finally, CIBC increased their target price on Fortis from C$55.00 to C$57.00 in a research note on Tuesday, January 10th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, four have issued a hold rating and one has given a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Fortis has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $58.75.

Fortis Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Fortis, Inc is an energy delivery company, which engages in the provision of energy generation and distribution. It operates through the Regulated Utilities and Non-Regulated segments. The Regulated Utilities segment is composed of ITC, which contains mainly of the electric transmission operations of the ITC regulated operating subsidiaries, UNS Energy that offers vertically integrated utility services, Central Hudson, which provides regulated electric and gas T&D utility services, FortisBC Energy distributes natural gas in British Columbia, FortisAlberta, which involves in the ownership and operation of regulated electricity distribution facilities, FortisBC Electric includes the ownership of hydroelectric generating plants, high voltage transmission lines, and a large network of distribution assets, and Other Electric that contains utilities in the eastern Canada and Caribbean.

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MBABANE  Members of Parliament (MPs) have called for the parking payment system, known as Pakani, to be reviewed and the quick clamping looked into.

The MPs expressed discontent on the issue of paying for a parking space in town, stating that they paid for a specific time, but when they moved from the space they had paid for to another parking space, they were made to pay again without exhausting the initial time paid for it. The legislators were making submissions after the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Prince Simelane, moved that the House adopts the response to motion No.3/2022, which was detailing how motorists are charged for parking points and the time parked in Manzini. An analogy and a description of how the paid parking system is operated within the Municipality of Manzini was brought back to the House by the minister, which was informed by the Municipality Parking Bye-Laws 1998, that derives its being from Section 77 of the Urban Government Act 1969.

Inception

It was stated in the report that during the inception of this Paid Parking System in 2007, a fee of E2.50 was charged for the use of any parking bay with the designated parking facility. At that period, a manual system of payment was used where motorists were required to pay the gazetted E2.50 per hour, as and when they occupied any parking bay within the paid parking zone. These motorists would be issued with a parking ticket, which they would display on the dashboard as proof of payment. Motorists would be allowed to transfer or move around other parking bays for as long as the parking period paid for had not lapsed.

After over 10 years of the operationalisation of the paid parking system, it was felt that the time was now right for the full roll-out and improvement of the paid parking system. This meant that it was time to move from the manual system to a more technologically advanced system. The current operator was tasked with the responsibility to see to it that the system was improved to be in line with the regional and international operational systems, while at the same time not deviating from the operational bye-laws.

This then saw the introduction of an electronic parking system (hand-held gadget and parking bay sensors) to be able to properly and easily monitor, manage and operate the paid parking system. This brought with it the introduction of a prepaid card system over and above the cash payment system. The idea is to make this parking system as cashless as possible. The new user fees as gazetted in 2018 now stipulate a charge of E5 per hour, per bay.

The discontent from the legislators was that when one had paid the E5 parking fee for an hour and they decided to move from the space they had paid for to another one within the same town, they were made to pay again without having exhausted the time they had paid for it. Kwaluseni MP Sibusiso Mabhanisi Dlamini made a request that if one had paid the E5 per hour, but then decided to move from the initial space to another one, they should not be made to pay again but be allowed to exhaust the time they had initially paid for.

Economic

It makes no economic sense to have to pay for a parking space just because you moved from the one you initially paid for. If one has proof in the form of a ticket, they should be allowed to park and exhaust the time they have paid for initially and only pay again if the time paid for has elapsed, he said. He was supported by Lugongolweni MP Enos Magongo who also emphasised that motorists should be given the allowance to exhaust time paid for parking while one manoeuvres around town. Siphocosini MP Mduduzi Matsebula raised another concern on the issue of pakani, enquiring from the minister if it had reached his attention that some motorists were made to pay for parking fees dating as far back as 2021, yet the vehicle was only a month old.

Clamps

Has the minister been informed that the pakani personnel clamps motorists, claiming their vehicles owed parking fees as old as over a year, yet the vehicle had been purchased a month ago, he asked. Princess Phumelele was particular on the issue of quick clamping by the pakani personnel. She said at one time, she had to wait for at least an hour after her vehicle had been clamped, as no one was attending to her despite making a call to the pakani office for the officers to attend her. She revealed that half the time the pakani officers, particularly in Mbabane where the electronic payment system was yet to be enacted, were not at the parking space and when the motorists parked and left without paying, they were very quick to clamp the vehicle.

The treatment we get from the pakani personnel is not good and there is a need to look into the payment system and review it, she said. Mkhiweni MP Michael Masuku suggested that the ministry should ensure that the electronic system was also introduced in Mbabane as the capital city was still using the manual payment system, making it difficult for motorists. In his responses, the minister said it was in the operation policy of the current contractor that motorists should pay when they moved to another parking space despite having paid for the initial one. We have heard the concerns of the MPs and we will engage the contractor on them and find a way to help the situation, he said. He also shared that the ministry was benefitting only 25 per cent from the proceeds made by the contractor every month and if business was not going well, the ministry only received a sum of E42 000.
AngloGold Ashanti (NYSE:AU  Get Rating) and TRX Gold (NYSE:TRX  Get Rating) are both basic materials companies, but which is the better business? We will compare the two businesses based on the strength of their dividends, earnings, valuation, analyst recommendations, profitability, institutional ownership and risk.

Analyst Ratings

This is a breakdown of current ratings and price targets for AngloGold Ashanti and TRX Gold, as provided by MarketBeat.com.

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Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score AngloGold Ashanti 2 0 2 0 2.00 TRX Gold 0 0 1 0 3.00

AngloGold Ashanti currently has a consensus target price of $27.00, indicating a potential upside of 0.04%. TRX Gold has a consensus target price of $1.10, indicating a potential upside of 106.53%. Given TRX Golds stronger consensus rating and higher probable upside, analysts clearly believe TRX Gold is more favorable than AngloGold Ashanti.

Valuation & Earnings

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio AngloGold Ashanti $4.50 billion 2.51 $297.00 million N/A N/A TRX Gold $31.58 million 4.67 -$6.22 million N/A N/A

This table compares AngloGold Ashanti and TRX Golds top-line revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

AngloGold Ashanti has higher revenue and earnings than TRX Gold.

Profitability

This table compares AngloGold Ashanti and TRX Golds net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets AngloGold Ashanti N/A N/A N/A TRX Gold -0.39% -6.50% -4.92%

Risk & Volatility

AngloGold Ashanti has a beta of 0.69, meaning that its stock price is 31% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, TRX Gold has a beta of 0.84, meaning that its stock price is 16% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Insider & Institutional Ownership

24.9% of AngloGold Ashanti shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 1.1% of TRX Gold shares are owned by institutional investors. 2.3% of TRX Gold shares are owned by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that large money managers, hedge funds and endowments believe a company is poised for long-term growth.

Summary

AngloGold Ashanti beats TRX Gold on 7 of the 12 factors compared between the two stocks.

About AngloGold Ashanti

(Get Rating)

AngloGold Ashanti Ltd. engages in the exploration, mining, and production of gold. It operates through the following business segments: Africa, Australia, and Americas. The Africa segment consists of Ghana, Guinea, the DRC (Democratic Republic of the Congo), and Tanzania. The Americas segment comprises of Argentina, Brazil, and projects in Colombia and the United States. The company was founded in 1944 and is headquartered in Johannesburg, South Africa.

About TRX Gold

(Get Rating)

TRX Gold Corp. along with its joint venture partner, State Mining Corporation of Tanzania (STAMICO), is building a gold project at Buckreef in Tanzania. The companys Buckreef Project is located in the Geita District of the Geita Region south of Lake Victoria, approximately 110 kilometers southwest of the city of Mwanza, Tanzania. The Buckreef Project consists of over four prospects, namely Buckreef, Bingwa, Tembo and Eastern Porphyry. The company was founded on July 5, 1990 and is headquartered in Toronto, Canada.

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Lundin Gold (OTCMKTS:LUGDF  Get Rating) had its target price raised by equities researchers at National Bank Financial from C$17.50 to C$21.00 in a report released on Tuesday, The Fly reports. National Bank Financials price target suggests a potential upside of 66.14% from the stocks previous close.

Other analysts also recently issued reports about the stock. Desjardins increased their price objective on shares of Lundin Gold from C$18.25 to C$18.50 in a research report on Thursday, March 2nd. BMO Capital Markets increased their price objective on shares of Lundin Gold from C$20.00 to C$21.00 in a research note on Thursday, April 6th. CIBC increased their price objective on shares of Lundin Gold from C$18.50 to C$20.00 in a research note on Tuesday, February 28th. Finally, Stifel Nicolaus increased their price objective on shares of Lundin Gold from $15.50 to $16.00 in a research note on Wednesday, January 11th.

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Lundin Gold Stock Performance

LUGDF stock traded down C$0.15 during trading on Tuesday, hitting C$12.64. 6,812 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 6,703. Lundin Gold has a 1 year low of C$6.07 and a 1 year high of C$13.10. The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of C$10.87.

Lundin Gold Company Profile

Lundin Gold, Inc is a natural resource mining company, which engages in the acquisition, exploration, and development of gold, base, and precious metal properties. It focuses on the operation of Fruta del Norte project. The company was founded on July 25, 1986 and is headquartered in Vancouver, Canada.

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Broadstone Net Lease (NYSE:BNL  Get Rating) and Equity LifeStyle Properties (NYSE:ELS  Get Rating) are both finance companies, but which is the superior business? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their analyst recommendations, profitability, earnings, institutional ownership, valuation, dividends and risk.

Volatility and Risk

Broadstone Net Lease has a beta of 1.11, indicating that its stock price is 11% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Equity LifeStyle Properties has a beta of 0.67, indicating that its stock price is 33% less volatile than the S&P 500.

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Analyst Recommendations

This is a summary of current recommendations for Broadstone Net Lease and Equity LifeStyle Properties, as reported by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Broadstone Net Lease 0 3 2 0 2.40 Equity LifeStyle Properties 0 4 4 0 2.50

Valuation & Earnings

Broadstone Net Lease presently has a consensus price target of $21.00, indicating a potential upside of 29.15%. Equity LifeStyle Properties has a consensus price target of $76.06, indicating a potential upside of 15.69%. Given Broadstone Net Leases higher possible upside, research analysts clearly believe Broadstone Net Lease is more favorable than Equity LifeStyle Properties.

This table compares Broadstone Net Lease and Equity LifeStyle Properties top-line revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Broadstone Net Lease $407.51 million 7.43 $122.11 million $0.72 22.58 Equity LifeStyle Properties $1.45 billion 8.46 $284.63 million $1.53 42.97

Equity LifeStyle Properties has higher revenue and earnings than Broadstone Net Lease. Broadstone Net Lease is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Equity LifeStyle Properties, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Insider and Institutional Ownership

79.3% of Broadstone Net Lease shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 90.7% of Equity LifeStyle Properties shares are held by institutional investors. 0.8% of Broadstone Net Lease shares are held by insiders. Comparatively, 4.9% of Equity LifeStyle Properties shares are held by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, large money managers and endowments believe a company is poised for long-term growth.

Dividends

Broadstone Net Lease pays an annual dividend of $1.10 per share and has a dividend yield of 6.8%. Equity LifeStyle Properties pays an annual dividend of $1.79 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.7%. Broadstone Net Lease pays out 152.8% of its earnings in the form of a dividend, suggesting it may not have sufficient earnings to cover its dividend payment in the future. Equity LifeStyle Properties pays out 117.0% of its earnings in the form of a dividend, suggesting it may not have sufficient earnings to cover its dividend payment in the future. Broadstone Net Lease has raised its dividend for 1 consecutive years and Equity LifeStyle Properties has raised its dividend for 19 consecutive years.

Profitability

This table compares Broadstone Net Lease and Equity LifeStyle Properties net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Broadstone Net Lease 29.97% 4.03% 2.38% Equity LifeStyle Properties 19.67% 18.70% 5.28%

Summary

Equity LifeStyle Properties beats Broadstone Net Lease on 13 of the 17 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Broadstone Net Lease

(Get Rating)

BNL is an internally-managed REIT that acquires, owns, and manages primarily single-tenant commercial real estate properties that are net leased on a long-term basis to a diversified group of tenants. The Company utilizes an investment strategy underpinned by strong fundamental credit analysis and prudent real estate underwriting. As of September 30, 2020, BNL's diversified portfolio consisted of 627 properties in 41 U.S. states and one property in Canada across the industrial, healthcare, restaurant, office, and retail property types, with an aggregate gross asset value of approximately $4.0 billion.

About Equity LifeStyle Properties

(Get Rating)

Equity LifeStyle Properties, Inc. is a real estate investment trust, which engages in the ownership and operation of lifestyle-oriented properties consisting primarily of manufactured home, and recreational vehicle communities. It operates through the following segments: Property Operations and Home Sales and Rentals Operations. The Property Operations segment owns and operates land lease properties. The Home Sales and Rentals Operations segment purchases, sells, and leases homes. The company was founded by James M. Hankins in December 1992 and is headquartered in Chicago, IL.

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Santander Bank Polska S.A. (OTCMKTS:BKZHF  Get Rating) was the recipient of a significant increase in short interest in March. As of March 31st, there was short interest totalling 43,100 shares, an increase of 28.7% from the March 15th total of 33,500 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 0 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently  days.

Santander Bank Polska Price Performance

BKZHF opened at 45.48 on Tuesday. Santander Bank Polska has a 12 month low of 45.48 and a 12 month high of 48.04. The firms fifty day simple moving average is 45.48 and its 200 day simple moving average is 45.48.

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About Santander Bank Polska

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Santander Bank Polska SA, together with its subsidiaries, provides various banking products and services for individuals, small or medium-sized enterprises, corporate clients, and public sector institutions. It offers personal account, deposits and currencies, internet and mobile banking, and mobile contactless payments, and credit solutions.

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bebe stores, inc. (OTCMKTS:BEBE  Get Rating) saw a significant decrease in short interest during the month of March. As of March 31st, there was short interest totalling 400 shares, a decrease of 20.0% from the March 15th total of 500 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 9,600 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.0 days.

bebe stores Price Performance

OTCMKTS:BEBE opened at $4.25 on Tuesday. bebe stores has a one year low of $3.73 and a one year high of $8.99. The firms fifty day moving average is $4.31 and its two-hundred day moving average is $5.09.

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bebe stores Cuts Dividend

The firm also recently disclosed a dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 3rd. Stockholders of record on Friday, February 17th were given a $0.02 dividend. This represents a dividend yield of 1.67%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, February 16th.

bebe stores Company Profile

bebe stores, inc. engages in the provision of chic and contemporary fashion merchandise. It offers its products under bebe brand. The company was founded by Manny Mashouf in June 1976 and is headquartered in Brisbane, CA.

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Spirit AeroSystems Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:SPR  Get Rating)s stock price shot up 4.9% during trading on Tuesday . The stock traded as high as $30.13 and last traded at $29.45. 4,558,883 shares traded hands during trading, an increase of 100% from the average session volume of 2,275,796 shares. The stock had previously closed at $28.07.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several research firms have recently commented on SPR. Royal Bank of Canada downgraded shares of Spirit AeroSystems from an outperform rating to a sector perform rating and decreased their target price for the stock from $38.00 to $36.00 in a research report on Friday, February 3rd. Susquehanna boosted their target price on shares of Spirit AeroSystems from $40.00 to $44.00 and gave the stock a positive rating in a research report on Wednesday, February 8th. Truist Financial upped their price objective on shares of Spirit AeroSystems from $39.00 to $42.00 in a research report on Monday, January 9th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their price objective on shares of Spirit AeroSystems from $40.00 to $44.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, February 8th. Finally, Barclays upped their price objective on shares of Spirit AeroSystems from $42.00 to $50.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Monday, February 13th. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, four have assigned a hold rating and five have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $38.17.

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Spirit AeroSystems Stock Performance

The company has a market capitalization of $3.20 billion, a PE ratio of -5.78 and a beta of 1.64. The stocks 50 day moving average is $33.60 and its 200 day moving average is $30.03.

Institutional Trading of Spirit AeroSystems

Spirit AeroSystems ( NYSE:SPR Get Rating ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, February 7th. The aerospace company reported ($1.46) EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of ($0.31) by ($1.15). The business had revenue of $1.32 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.43 billion. Spirit AeroSystems had a negative net margin of 10.85% and a negative return on equity of 365.67%. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 23.4% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted ($0.84) earnings per share. On average, equities research analysts forecast that Spirit AeroSystems Holdings, Inc. will post -0.05 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the business. Fisher Asset Management LLC lifted its stake in shares of Spirit AeroSystems by 54.7% during the 3rd quarter. Fisher Asset Management LLC now owns 79,426 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $1,741,000 after buying an additional 28,097 shares in the last quarter. Treasurer of the State of North Carolina lifted its stake in Spirit AeroSystems by 1.3% in the 3rd quarter. Treasurer of the State of North Carolina now owns 44,722 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $980,000 after purchasing an additional 580 shares in the last quarter. Macquarie Group Ltd. lifted its stake in Spirit AeroSystems by 30.5% in the 3rd quarter. Macquarie Group Ltd. now owns 63,505 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $1,411,000 after purchasing an additional 14,829 shares in the last quarter. PDT Partners LLC lifted its stake in Spirit AeroSystems by 112.2% in the 3rd quarter. PDT Partners LLC now owns 24,191 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $530,000 after purchasing an additional 12,790 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Cornerstone Investment Partners LLC lifted its stake in Spirit AeroSystems by 37.3% in the 3rd quarter. Cornerstone Investment Partners LLC now owns 9,644 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $211,000 after purchasing an additional 2,619 shares in the last quarter. 85.82% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

About Spirit AeroSystems

(Get Rating)

Spirit AeroSystems Holdings, Inc engages in the design and manufacture of aero structures for commercial and defense aircraft. It operates through the following segments: Commercial, Defense & Space, and Aftermarket. The Commercial segment designs and manufactures forward, mid, and rear fuselage sections which related to floor beams, nacelles, struts and pylons, horizontal and vertical stabilizers, flaps and slats and wing structures.

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Stock Yards Bank & Trust Co. lessened its stake in The Hershey Company (NYSE:HSY  Get Rating) by 1.6% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 9,094 shares of the companys stock after selling 150 shares during the quarter. Stock Yards Bank & Trust Co.s holdings in Hershey were worth $2,106,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its position in Hershey by 1.7% in the 3rd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 14,528,326 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,203,060,000 after acquiring an additional 245,084 shares in the last quarter. BlackRock Inc. grew its position in shares of Hershey by 3.4% during the 3rd quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 14,486,327 shares of the companys stock worth $3,193,800,000 after buying an additional 473,552 shares during the period. State Street Corp grew its position in shares of Hershey by 0.3% during the 3rd quarter. State Street Corp now owns 7,199,866 shares of the companys stock worth $1,587,354,000 after buying an additional 18,326 shares during the period. Bank of New York Mellon Corp grew its position in shares of Hershey by 1.3% during the 3rd quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 1,315,785 shares of the companys stock worth $290,089,000 after buying an additional 17,178 shares during the period. Finally, Wellington Management Group LLP grew its position in shares of Hershey by 2,693.0% during the 1st quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 1,094,755 shares of the companys stock worth $237,156,000 after buying an additional 1,055,559 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 54.17% of the companys stock.

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Hershey Price Performance

Shares of HSY opened at $259.03 on Tuesday. The company has a market cap of $52.85 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 32.54, a PEG ratio of 3.57 and a beta of 0.31. The Hershey Company has a 1-year low of $201.42 and a 1-year high of $261.17. The companys fifty day simple moving average is $245.02 and its 200 day simple moving average is $234.42. The company has a current ratio of 0.80, a quick ratio of 0.44 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.01.

Hershey Announces Dividend

Hershey ( NYSE:HSY Get Rating ) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, February 2nd. The company reported $2.02 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.77 by $0.25. The business had revenue of $2.65 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.58 billion. Hershey had a net margin of 15.79% and a return on equity of 57.76%. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 14.0% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the company earned $1.69 earnings per share. On average, research analysts forecast that The Hershey Company will post 9.37 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, March 15th. Shareholders of record on Friday, February 17th were issued a $1.036 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, February 16th. This represents a $4.14 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.60%. Hersheys dividend payout ratio is currently 52.01%.

Insider Buying and Selling at Hershey

In other Hershey news, SVP Jason Reiman sold 150 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Thursday, February 9th. The shares were sold at an average price of $234.83, for a total value of $35,224.50. Following the transaction, the senior vice president now directly owns 12,717 shares in the company, valued at $2,986,333.11. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. In other Hershey news, SVP Jason Reiman sold 150 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Thursday, February 9th. The shares were sold at an average price of $234.83, for a total value of $35,224.50. Following the transaction, the senior vice president now directly owns 12,717 shares in the company, valued at $2,986,333.11. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Also, CEO Michele Buck sold 14,250 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, February 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $240.16, for a total transaction of $3,422,280.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 120,555 shares in the company, valued at $28,952,488.80. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 51,244 shares of company stock worth $12,579,684 over the last ninety days. Insiders own 0.22% of the companys stock.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several equities research analysts have recently commented on HSY shares. Jefferies Financial Group lifted their price target on shares of Hershey from $251.00 to $260.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, March 23rd. Wells Fargo & Company upgraded shares of Hershey from an underweight rating to an equal weight rating and lifted their price target for the stock from $230.00 to $255.00 in a research report on Wednesday, March 29th. The Goldman Sachs Group lifted their price objective on shares of Hershey from $255.00 to $277.00 in a research note on Thursday, February 2nd. Evercore ISI lifted their price objective on shares of Hershey from $250.00 to $255.00 and gave the stock an in-line rating in a research note on Thursday, March 23rd. Finally, Credit Suisse Group lifted their price objective on shares of Hershey from $250.00 to $260.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Friday, February 3rd. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, eleven have issued a hold rating and four have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Hershey has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $249.94.

Hershey Company Profile

(Get Rating)

The Hershey Co engages in the manufacture and marketing of chocolate, sweets, mints and confectionery products. The firm operates through the following geographical segments: North America and International and Other. The North America is responsible for the traditional chocolate and non-chocolate confectionery market position of the company, as well as its grocery and snacks market positions, in the United States and Canada.

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Tesco (LON:TSCO  Get Rating) had its price target boosted by JPMorgan Chase & Co. from GBX 270 ($3.34) to GBX 290 ($3.59) in a research note issued on Tuesday, MarketBeat.com reports. The firm presently has an overweight rating on the retailers stock. JPMorgan Chase & Co.s target price suggests a potential upside of 5.88% from the companys previous close.

A number of other research firms also recently weighed in on TSCO. Jefferies Financial Group raised shares of Tesco to a buy rating and increased their target price for the company from GBX 260 ($3.22) to GBX 310 ($3.84) in a research report on Monday, March 6th. Shore Capital reissued a buy rating on shares of Tesco in a research report on Monday, March 13th. Seven analysts have rated the stock with a buy rating, According to MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Buy and an average price target of GBX 312 ($3.86).

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Tesco Stock Up 0.7 %

TSCO stock traded up GBX 1.80 ($0.02) during trading on Tuesday, reaching GBX 273.90 ($3.39). The stock had a trading volume of 13,131,989 shares, compared to its average volume of 18,518,199. Tesco has a one year low of GBX 194.35 ($2.41) and a one year high of GBX 289 ($3.58). The company has a quick ratio of 0.60, a current ratio of 0.79 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 113.89. The companys 50 day moving average is GBX 255.94 and its two-hundred day moving average is GBX 237.38. The company has a market capitalization of 20.05 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 2,282.51, a P/E/G ratio of 3.52 and a beta of 0.65.

Insider Activity

Tesco Company Profile

In related news, insider Caroline Silver bought 15,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, February 21st. The shares were purchased at an average price of GBX 250 ($3.09) per share, with a total value of 37,500 ($46,405.15). In the last 90 days, insiders have purchased 15,216 shares of company stock valued at $3,804,977. Corporate insiders own 2.06% of the companys stock.

(Get Rating)

Tesco PLC, together with its subsidiaries, engages in retailing and retail banking activities. It provides food products through approximately 4,752 stores in the United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Hungary, as well as through online. The company is also involved in the food and drink wholesaling activities.

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Tobam decreased its holdings in shares of The Travelers Companies, Inc. (NYSE:TRV  Get Rating) by 80.5% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 2,964 shares of the insurance providers stock after selling 12,198 shares during the quarter. Tobams holdings in Travelers Companies were worth $556,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Great West Life Assurance Co. Can bought a new stake in shares of Travelers Companies in the 3rd quarter worth approximately $42,750,000. Barclays PLC lifted its position in shares of Travelers Companies by 74.7% during the 3rd quarter. Barclays PLC now owns 625,735 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $95,863,000 after buying an additional 267,460 shares during the period. Truist Financial Corp lifted its position in shares of Travelers Companies by 129.0% during the 3rd quarter. Truist Financial Corp now owns 443,382 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $67,927,000 after buying an additional 249,765 shares during the period. Cornerstone Investment Partners LLC bought a new position in shares of Travelers Companies during the 4th quarter worth approximately $37,535,000. Finally, Janney Montgomery Scott LLC bought a new position in shares of Travelers Companies during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $26,472,000. Institutional investors own 81.59% of the companys stock.

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Travelers Companies Stock Performance

TRV stock opened at $171.28 on Tuesday. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $176.88 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $180.11. The company has a current ratio of 0.33, a quick ratio of 0.33 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.34. The firm has a market cap of $39.56 billion, a PE ratio of 14.58, a P/E/G ratio of 1.12 and a beta of 0.60. The Travelers Companies, Inc. has a 1-year low of $149.65 and a 1-year high of $194.51.

Travelers Companies Announces Dividend

Travelers Companies ( NYSE:TRV Get Rating ) last posted its earnings results on Tuesday, January 24th. The insurance provider reported $3.40 earnings per share for the quarter, hitting the consensus estimate of $3.40. The firm had revenue of $8.83 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $8.78 billion. Travelers Companies had a return on equity of 13.34% and a net margin of 7.71%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 10.4% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $5.20 earnings per share. As a group, research analysts forecast that The Travelers Companies, Inc. will post 14.07 earnings per share for the current year.

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 31st. Shareholders of record on Friday, March 10th were issued a dividend of $0.93 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, March 9th. This represents a $3.72 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.17%. Travelers Companiess dividend payout ratio is presently 31.66%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several equities analysts recently commented on TRV shares. Barclays cut their target price on Travelers Companies from $196.00 to $179.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, April 12th. BMO Capital Markets assumed coverage on Travelers Companies in a report on Thursday, January 19th. They set an outperform rating and a $212.00 price target for the company. Citigroup dropped their price target on Travelers Companies from $196.00 to $182.00 in a report on Tuesday. Raymond James raised their price target on Travelers Companies from $200.00 to $220.00 and gave the company a strong-buy rating in a report on Wednesday, January 25th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company lifted their target price on Travelers Companies from $181.00 to $182.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Wednesday, April 5th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, ten have given a hold rating, four have assigned a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, Travelers Companies presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $191.07.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other news, Vice Chairman William H. Heyman sold 9,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Thursday, January 26th. The stock was sold at an average price of $191.42, for a total value of $1,722,780.00. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 251,605 shares in the company, valued at $48,162,229.10. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. In other news, CEO Alan D. Schnitzer sold 150,829 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, February 8th. The stock was sold at an average price of $188.53, for a total value of $28,435,791.37. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now directly owns 196,914 shares in the company, valued at $37,124,196.42. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, Vice Chairman William H. Heyman sold 9,000 shares of Travelers Companies stock in a transaction dated Thursday, January 26th. The shares were sold at an average price of $191.42, for a total value of $1,722,780.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now directly owns 251,605 shares in the company, valued at approximately $48,162,229.10. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last ninety days, insiders have sold 188,163 shares of company stock worth $35,402,200. Corporate insiders own 1.07% of the companys stock.

Travelers Companies Company Profile

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The Travelers Cos., Inc is a holding company, which engages in the provision of commercial and personal property and casualty insurance products and services. It operates through the following business segments: Business Insurance, Bond and Specialty Insurance, and Personal Insurance. The Business Insurance segment provides an array of property and casualty insurance, and insurance related services to its customers primarily in the U.S., as well as in Canada, the United Kingdom, the Republic of Ireland and throughout other parts of the world as a corporate member of Lloyds.

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MBABANE  The liSwati behind the alleged smuggling of medication worth E800 000 has been identified as Bongani Sifiso Shongwe.

Shongwe (31) appeared at the Chief Albert Luthuli Magistrates Court yesterday charged with contravening the South Africa Medical Act. He was remanded in custody and will return to court on Thursday. He was arrested by the South African Police Service (SAPS) under the Border Policing at the Oshoek Port of Entry on Friday afternoon.

Upon his arrest, the suspect supposedly informed the law enforcers that someone had bought the medical drugs and supplies locally. However, it is worth noting that Eswatini imports medical drugs as there are no pharmaceutical plants producing them locally. It is yet to be verified if the drugs were stolen from government institutions or private pharmacies. The arrest of Shongwe happened almost eight weeks after the Auditor General (AG), Timothy Matsebula, submitted a report in Parliament, detailing that over E151 million of medical drugs were unaccounted for in public health facilities.

This, he said, resulted in a shortage of medical supplies yet government had improved its budget for this stock by over 55 per cent. In a media statement, which was issued by the office of the Provincial Commissioner in Mpumalanga, it was reported that the suspect was nabbed after failure to produce authorisation for transportation of the consignment across the border. It was stated that police, who were busy with their routine duties, searched a truck which was pulling two trailers.



During their search, the law enforcers reportedly discovered that the truck was transporting a huge consignment of medication and that it was headed to South Africa (SA) from Eswatini. The destination of the medical drugs is yet to be ascertained, as the driver (Shongwe) claimed ignorance to the contents of the consignment when he was arrested. He alleged that he did not know that he was transporting stolen consignment.
MANZINI - Employers, especially those in sectors believed to be low paying, are facing one of the toughest salary negotiations this year as workers want a total review of the wages.

This follows the Minister of Labour and Social Security, Phila Buthelezis pronouncement, that the wages councils of the various sectors have a mandate to increase the minimum wages in the industries, in such a way that an individual would be able to survive in the rapidly increasing cost of living. The minister said this after doing site visits to some of the sectors and learnt that after government, through the wages councils, had published gazettes for minimum wages, employers did not engage their employees on what they could add on top of the minimum wage. Instead, he said some employers stuck to the minimum wage, yet they were to negotiate with the workers, in terms of their affordability.

Minimum

Basically, by setting the minimum wage, he said government was saying workers in the different sectors should not be paid less than that (gazetted minimum wage). The sectors that have started looking into the minimal wage include those in retail, security, manufacturing and textile industries, and they are represented by the Swaziland Commercial and Allied Workers Union (SCAWU), Swaziland Amalgamated Trade Union (SATU) and Amalgamated Trade Union of Swaziland (ATUSWA), respectively. Some of the workers in these sectors have instructed their unions to move away from negotiating pay rise in percentages as they believed it was deceiving. They have given them a mandate to demand a fixed (in amount) minimum wage.

To start with, ATUSWA, which negotiates on behalf of about 22 000 workers in the textile industry and others in the manufacturing and processing industry, said their members demanded an increase that would see the least paid workers in the textile and apparel sector earning E3 232 per month. Currently, on average, textile workers are paid E2 400 per month (34.6 per cent) ATUSWA Secretary General Wonder Mkhonza confirmed the demand and said it ranged between E808 to E900 per week, which was between E3 232 and E3 600 per month, respectively. The workers told us what they want and that we should stick to it, instead of negotiating using percentages because it (percentage) was deceiving, Mkhonza said.



Again, he said they wanted the rate of Category I to be removed from the sector. This category covers trainees and ATUSWAs argument is that this category was no longer relevant in the industry. Mkhonza said this category was only relevant in the early 2000s as emaSwati were still learning and mastering the textile sector work. He argued that now, emaSwati were well-versed about the work in this sector. Furthermore, he said they wanted the working hours to be reduced from 45 per week to 44. He said their target goal was to reduce it to 40 hours per week  over five days (Monday to Friday). He said they targeted to reduce it by an hour per year to allow the employer to adjust and plan properly. Currently, most textile workers work about 10 hours per day (from 7am to 5pm).

Once more, the unionist said they wanted overtime to be paid properly. He said they learnt with shock that if an employee worked overtime from Monday to Wednesday and then went to the clinic on Thursday, some employers took the overtime hours to fill the sick day-off, yet by law, they should pay sick notes. So, he said they wanted overtime hours to be paid together with sick notes.

Last year, textile workers were awarded 7.25 per cent salary adjustment and ATUSWA rejected it and even engaged the Ministry of Labour and Social Security to intervene. This was after the employers representative and government voted for the 7.25 per cent, but the trade union did not vote. It raised a concern that all the time when they reached a deadlock, government voted in favour of the employers. Meanwhile, he said in the manufacturing and processing sector, their focus would be more on salaries this year because they achieved a lot in the previous financial year. For example, he said one of the big shifts they witnessed was regarding compassionate leave. He said before, it was not paid, but after last years negotiations, it was fully paid.

Again, he said maternity leave was increased from six weeks to eight weeks and holidays were properly paid. In terms of salaries, the least paid workers want E808 per week (E3 232 per month) and up to E950 per week (E3 800 per month). On the other hand, the retail industry workers are said to be paid between E850 and E1 800 per month. SCAWU Secretary General (SG) Phila Mthethwa said in the industry, some employers added E2 on top of the gazetted minimum wage and boast that they were paying workers more than the gazette.

He said during negotiations, the big guns in the industry always pushed for the lowest salary adjustments and claimed that they were looking after the small businesses, especially new comers, so that they could cope. Thereafter, he alleged that after the publishing of the gazette, these retailers added a minimum of between E2 to E50 on top of the gazetted minimum wage.



Mthethwa said they had been engaging their members through a WhatsApp group and they wanted to be paid at least E3 000 per month, which is 100 per cent increment. On another note, security guards, who, according to the gazette, earn about E2 500 per month on average, want at least 15 per cent salary adjustment. SATU SG Frank Mncina, who said they were yet to present their position paper to the wages council, highlighted that their members ultimate goal was to earn at least E4 000 per month.

However, he said even though the E4 000 demand could be achieved, it could take long, thus they decided to table the demand of 15 per cent. He said the E4 000 per month salary could be achieved in the not so distant future. Again, he said in their position paper, they would also demand that hours of work should be reduced from 12 hours per day to eight. He said if the workers had to work 12 hours per day, the four hours should be overtime.
Picture a carpenter who shows up to work without a hammer. Or maybe, instead, a sledgehammer. Either shell spend the day on a long coffee break or wasting energy bludgeoning nails. The right tool can mean the world.

Thats what Dr. Mark Stradiottos discoveries deliver to chemical reactions that help to make life-preserving pharmaceuticals possible. But the hammer, in this case, is a ligand, a chemical tool used to help metals catalyze reactions that combine molecules. And, rather than a sledgehammer, Dr. Stradiottos ligands provide precision, enabling reactions to take place with the least amount of energy possible.

Today, the discoveries of Dr. Stradiotto and his research team were recognized with a Governor Generals Innovation Award, which celebrates trailblazers shaping Canadas future and inspiring the next generation of innovators. Dr. Stradiotto, a Dalhousie Arthur B. McDonald Research Chair, is one of six awardees announced by the Rideau Hall Foundation and will formally receive the award at a ceremony in Ottawa on May 18, 2023.

Over the past twenty years at Dalhousie, Dr. Mark Stradiotto has played an integral role in establishing Dalhousies chemistry department as a global leader in innovation and scientific breakthrough, says Dr. Alice Aiken, Dalhousies vice president, research and innovation. His teams discoveries have been pivotal for the creation of drugs that help people lead heathier longer lives. The impact of his research is felt around the world every day.

Less waste, more impact



Dr. Stradiottos game-changing research resulted in the development and commercialization of the DalPhos  short for Dalhousie Phosphine  family of ligands which addresses important challenges in the creation of pharmaceuticals and has earned him collaborations with global industrial partners.

He says private sector partners seek him out because his groups chemical innovations help them produce products more efficiently. Making pharmaceuticals is an extremely wasteful process. Its also an extremely expensive undertaking, so in addition to a desire to lessen their impact on the planet, companies are initiating scientific partnerships to gain greater production efficiency.

Think of what we do as providing a tool. The catalysts weve developed are really efficient, sustainable, and can be applied broadly in a number of ways. We're not making medicines, but we're giving them the tools they need to make medicines more cheaply and with less waste.

From palladium to nickel



Dr. Stradiotto says his groups most important innovation was to advance the element nickel as a catalyst to replace palladium, a rare and extraordinarily expensive metal. While this unconventional approach pitted him against conventional wisdom and some of the largest research groups internationally, it led to impactful advances in catalysis that are now used in drug making around the world.

But Dr. Stradiotto didnt set out to with the goal to replace palladium. It came after a long process of experimentation focused on exploring how different metals behaved when designing unusual ligands.

We were really at the forefront of this in a lot of ways  going from palladium to nickel. But it started with the dreamy work first and then we sharpened it down, he says. Fifteen years ago, we were still working with palladium. In that process, we realized we didnt have to. We discovered how to change the rules. But it started off very esoteric and very curiosity driven.

The process of discovery has enabled the creation of pharmaceuticals that would not have been possible and are now on the market improving peoples lives. His DalPhos ligands are included in patents for a range of drugs, from anti-cancer medications to new antibiotics and central nervous system treatments.

Catalyzing team dynamics



Dr. Stradiotto is wary of claiming the success represented by the Governor Generals Innovation Award as his own, saying that it belongs to all people who have contributed to the science over the years. He says its his role to bring together excellent researchers, graduate students, and postdoctoral fellows and to help guide their dynamics and discoveries.

It frustrates people. I'm not the smartest person in any room at any time. My international competitors are like, How is this guy doing all this stuff?. It comes down to keeping it simple and putting together the right people, the right collaborators. And then in 15 years, you look back and say, Well, we did this right, you know, we moved it.

Recommended reading:

Dal chemist celebrated for building the fundamental science of her discipline

Dal chemist wins international award for science that begins with structural beauty
A pair of Dalhousie alumni have been selected to receive McCall MacBain Scholarships this year. They are among 20 Canadians to receive the widely coveted award, Canadas comprehensive, leadership-based scholarship for masters and professional studies. Caleigh Wong (DipEng'22, BA'22), a graduate of Dals International Development Studies program who also earned a diploma in civil engineering during her time at the university, and Chantel Findlay (BSc21), a neuroscience grad, were chosen from a pool of nearly 700 Canadian applicants. The program, based at McGill University in Montreal, brings together students who strive to create positive change in their communities through engaged leadership. Applicants are judged on a variety of factors, including character, community engagement, entrepreneurial spirit, academic strength, intellectual curiosity, and leadership potential. We are thrilled to learn that Caleigh and Chantel are recipients of the prestigious McCall MacBain Scholarship, says Frank Harvey, president and vice-chancellor of Dalhousie (acting). Both have distinguished themselves in their studies and in their commitment to their communities. They will benefit tremendously from the generosity of John and Marcy McCall MacBain and the impact that the McCall MacBain Scholarship will have in their lives as future leaders. Five Dal students and alumni have received the scholarship in three years. Caleigh and Chantel join last year's winner, Anna Gaudet (BA'22), and Fatima Beydoun (BA21) and Caroline Merner (BA21), who received the award in 2021. Recipients receive full funding for tuition and fees, a living stipend of $2,000 a month, connections with mentors, and the opportunity to participate in an intensive leadership development program. Learn more about Caleigh and Chantel below:



Creating change from the inside out

Caleigh Wong chuckles as she recalls the first round of McCall MacBain interviews. She was visiting her dad in Malaysia, where she lived until she moved to Kelowna, B.C., with her mom at age 11, and had to join the interview virtually. I was sitting there at two in the morning in my business casual on my webcam, she says, explaining the rather dramatic time difference between her and the interview committee. Even at such a late hour, Caleigh says she enjoyed getting to meet some of the others also attending the first round online. And so when the second set of interviews rolled around and she was able to attend in person in Montreal, she got to immerse herself in the experience even more intensely. Regardless of whether I got it or not, I remember when I was there thinking this will be an experience I remember forever. Caleigh plans to study political science at McGill and will take up a fellowship with the Centre for International Peace and Security Studies, where shell focus her research on ways Canada can improve its diplomatic processes. Eighty per cent of peace agreements fail within five years, says Caleigh, who is currently a public policy intern at the Institute of Public Administration of Canada. We know that women make peace more enduring, more likely to be agreed upon, yet we havent actually questioned the structures of the diplomacy process that were founded and continue to be dominated by men.



Caleighs academic interests and outlook overlap in many ways with her broader advocacy efforts, many of which emerged during her time as a Dal student and reservist in the Canadian Armed Forces from 2017-2022. Five years of service  including a year-long deployment as part of a NATO mission in Eastern Europe during a break from her International Development Studies and Engineering programs at Dal  brought her deep inside one of Canada's largest bureaucracies. The experience opened her eyes to some of its cultural challenges such as sexism, homophobia, and racism. She served as her unit's ethics officer, educating fellow soldiers about discrimination, and later served as a junior research fellow for the NATO Association of Canada's Women in Security Program. Meanwhile, in her civilian life, Caleigh had also became increasingly involved in advocacy around several issues, including anti-Asian racism. She led a petition calling for the establishment of a course on anti-racism in B.C. high schools that gained 10,000 signatories and led to the creation of a committee for curricular input on the issue. And she joined forces with four other women of Asian descent she met at a Daughters of the Vote conference in Ottawa one summer to create the Asian Resilience Collective Canada. Last fall, the non-profit released ARCMag, a self-published collection of personal essays and artwork on a range of topics surrounding racial resilience and the Asian-Canadian experience. Pushing for change both from within organizations and from the outside also led Caleigh to a bigger realization: that advocacy movements need to be willing to directly engage with organizations rather than just confront them. "You need people who are willing and able to bridge that gap and engage with people both on the inside and outside who are both fighting for the same movement," she says. "Otherwise, it is such a disadvantage to the greater cause.

Putting people first

Chantel Findlay of Halifax counts herself among the many people hoping to help remake Canada's health-care system in the years ahead. The recent Dal neuroscience grad's interest in health care first began a decade ago when her paternal grandmother, who raised her, was diagnosed with fibromyalgia. There wasn't a lot known at the time about the painful neurological disorder or what causes it, and Chantel was often along for the ride as her grandmother participated in research trials. The experience left her with a keen interest in understanding the human brain and nervous system, which she did later as a student in Professor Aaron Newman's neurocognitive imaging lab at Dal. "I have a lot of pride being a Dalhousie alum," she says. "Dalhousie helped build the foundation for my love of academics and higher education, and I attribute my desire to continue exploring the healthcare world and apply my knowledge through critical thinking and appraisal to the skills I learned from Dal." As a child, Chantel was a regular at her local Boys and Girls Club in Halifax. She would go there before and after school to escape her sometimes stressful home life, where she felt she had to take on the role of adult at times. Chantel stayed connected with the organization as she grew older, taking on a junior leader role and, later, positions as a summer camp and youth program coordinator. She calls it a "full-circle story." "That was my place to go and just be a kid for a couple of hours, she says. It really touched me as a child, and I knew I wanted to give back in that way." Chantels commitment to helping people only grew stronger in the years ahead. At Dal, she managed public relations for a student society providing live music in seniors homes and hospitals and volunteered with Kids Help Phone. Now, she volunteers at the Teddy Bear Hospital in Montreal, where she has spent the last eight months as a qualifying-year student at McGills Ingram School of Nursing. With her McCall MacBain Scholarship in hand, shell enter the Master of Science (Applied) in Nursing at McGill this fall with an eye on further developing an expertise in global health principles and putting her people skills to work in service of health care. With Nursing, I really want to get into the policy side of things, but Im coming at it from a different angle, she says. "Instead of studying policy and applying it from the top down, I want to bring the voices of the healthcare providers working on the ground into the policy discussions."
MANZINI - Employers, especially those in sectors believed to be low paying, are facing one of the toughest salary negotiations this year as workers want a total review of the wages.

This follows the Minister of Labour and Social Security, Phila Buthelezis pronouncement, that the wages councils of the various sectors have a mandate to increase the minimum wages in the industries, in such a way that an individual would be able to survive in the rapidly increasing cost of living. The minister said this after doing site visits to some of the sectors and learnt that after government, through the wages councils, had published gazettes for minimum wages, employers did not engage their employees on what they could add on top of the minimum wage. Instead, he said some employers stuck to the minimum wage, yet they were to negotiate with the workers, in terms of their affordability.

Minimum

Basically, by setting the minimum wage, he said government was saying workers in the different sectors should not be paid less than that (gazetted minimum wage). The sectors that have started looking into the minimal wage include those in retail, security, manufacturing and textile industries, and they are represented by the Swaziland Commercial and Allied Workers Union (SCAWU), Swaziland Amalgamated Trade Union (SATU) and Amalgamated Trade Union of Swaziland (ATUSWA), respectively. Some of the workers in these sectors have instructed their unions to move away from negotiating pay rise in percentages as they believed it was deceiving. They have given them a mandate to demand a fixed (in amount) minimum wage.

To start with, ATUSWA, which negotiates on behalf of about 22 000 workers in the textile industry and others in the manufacturing and processing industry, said their members demanded an increase that would see the least paid workers in the textile and apparel sector earning E3 232 per month. Currently, on average, textile workers are paid E2 400 per month (34.6 per cent) ATUSWA Secretary General Wonder Mkhonza confirmed the demand and said it ranged between E808 to E900 per week, which was between E3 232 and E3 600 per month, respectively. The workers told us what they want and that we should stick to it, instead of negotiating using percentages because it (percentage) was deceiving, Mkhonza said.

Again, he said they wanted the rate of Category I to be removed from the sector. This category covers trainees and ATUSWAs argument is that this category was no longer relevant in the industry. Mkhonza said this category was only relevant in the early 2000s as emaSwati were still learning and mastering the textile sector work. He argued that now, emaSwati were well-versed about the work in this sector. Furthermore, he said they wanted the working hours to be reduced from 45 per week to 44. He said their target goal was to reduce it to 40 hours per week  over five days (Monday to Friday). He said they targeted to reduce it by an hour per year to allow the employer to adjust and plan properly. Currently, most textile workers work about 10 hours per day (from 7am to 5pm).

Once more, the unionist said they wanted overtime to be paid properly. He said they learnt with shock that if an employee worked overtime from Monday to Wednesday and then went to the clinic on Thursday, some employers took the overtime hours to fill the sick day-off, yet by law, they should pay sick notes. So, he said they wanted overtime hours to be paid together with sick notes. Last year, textile workers were awarded 7.25 per cent salary adjustment and ATUSWA rejected it and even engaged the Ministry of Labour and Social Security to intervene. This was after the employers representative and government voted for the 7.25 per cent, but the trade union did not vote.

It raised a concern that all the time when they reached a deadlock, government voted in favour of the employers. Meanwhile, he said in the manufacturing and processing sector, their focus would be more on salaries this year because they achieved a lot in the previous financial year. For example, he said one of the big shifts they witnessed was regarding compassionate leave. He said before, it was not paid, but after last years negotiations, it was fully paid.

Again, he said maternity leave was increased from six weeks to eight weeks and holidays were properly paid. In terms of salaries, the least paid workers want E808 per week (E3 232 per month) and up to E950 per week (E3 800 per month). On the other hand, the retail industry workers are said to be paid between E850 and E1 800 per month. SCAWU Secretary General (SG) Phila Mthethwa said in the industry, some employers added E2 on top of the gazetted minimum wage and boast that they were paying workers more than the gazette. He said during negotiations, the big guns in the industry always pushed for the lowest salary adjustments and claimed that they were looking after the small businesses, especially new comers, so that they could cope. Thereafter, he alleged that after the publishing of the gazette, these retailers added a minimum of between E2 to E50 on top of the gazetted minimum wage.

Engaging

Mthethwa said they had been engaging their members through a WhatsApp group and they wanted to be paid at least E3 000 per month, which is 100 per cent increment. On another note, security guards, who, according to the gazette, earn about E2 500 per month on average, want at least 15 per cent salary adjustment. SATU SG Frank Mncina, who said they were yet to present their position paper to the wages council, highlighted that their members ultimate goal was to earn at least E4 000 per month. However, he said even though the E4 000 demand could be achieved, it could take long, thus they decided to table the demand of 15 per cent. He said the E4 000 per month salary could be achieved in the not so distant future.

Again, he said in their position paper, they would also demand that hours of work should be reduced from 12 hours per day to eight. He said if the workers had to work 12 hours per day, the four hours should be overtime.
Chief Minister Y.S Jagan Mohan Reddy would visit Srikakulam on Wednesday and lay the foundation stone for the Mulapeta Greenfield Port. (Image: Twitter)

Vijayawada: Chief Minister Y.S Jagan Mohan Reddy would visit Srikakulam on Wednesday and lay the foundation stone for the Mulapeta Greenfield Port.

He would go to Naupada village and lay the foundation for the Budagatlapalem fishing harbour and the Hiramandalam Vamsadhara Lift Irrigation project and address a public meeting.

The port, in the first phase, would have three general cargo berths and a bulk cargo terminal. It will initially have a handling capacity of 23.53 million tonnes. Infrastructure will be developed in an area of 500 acres.

A decade-long dream of the northern Andhra people is coming to fruition with the Bhoomi Pooja of Mulapeta Port. A comprehensive development plan aims to totally transform the looks of Srikakulam district.

"The chief minister will perform Bhoomi Puja to Mulapeta Port costing around 4,362 crore in Santhabommali mandal. The CM will also lay foundation to a fishing harbour worth 360 crore on the shores of Budagatlapalem in Etcherla mandal, and for the Vamsadhara Lift Irrigation project from Gotta Barrage to Hiramandalam reservoir costing 176.35 crore and the Mahendratanaya offshore reservoir project works that are estimated to cost 852 crores," an official statement said.

The plan is to set up a total of four berths to be utilised for general cargo, coal, multipurpose containers and to handle other exports and imports with a capacity of 23.5 million tonnes per annum. The Mulapeta Port works are to be completed in 30 months, it said.

Mulapeta Port plays a key role in handling exports and imports from states like Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh and southern part of Odisha. The construction of new ports in the state at a cost of 16,000 crore is planned at Ramayapatnam, Machilipatnam, Kakinada Gateway and Mulapeta, thereby creating huge employment opportunities and facilitating exports at low transportation cost, the release said.

A Relief and Rehabilitation package of 109 crore has been sanctioned to the 594 displaced families of Vishnuchakram and Mulapeta villages. Under this, the construction of R&R colony in Naupada village in 55 acres, with modern amenities, will be started. The Mulapeta Port provides direct and indirect employment to 25,000 people.

Ministers Appalaraju and Amarnath said the state government is constructing four seaports in four years. The construction of Ramayapatnam Port has started and the works of Kakinada SEZ Port are in fast mode. The foundation for the Machilipatnam Port is to be laid soon, they said.

Explaining the features of Mulapeta Port, the ministers said the port capacity is 23.5 million tonnes per annum, with four berths. A four-lane highway for a stretch of 13.8km connecting NH16 and a 10.6km railway lane from Naupada junction to the port would be constructed.

A 50km pipeline from Gotta barrage to supply 0.5 million litres of water per day and a cargo-handling and port-led industries in 5000 acres of land adjacent to the port are helpful to fishermen families to get employment and works, they said.

The ministers said Visakhapatnam, a fast-growing city, is changing the facade of northern Andhra. "The foundation stone for the Bhogapuram International Airport is to be laid next month. A six-lane highway between Bhogapuram and Visakhapatnam is planned. The International Data Centre is to be set up in Visakhapatnam next month and the works of the Fishing Harbour at Manchineelapeta are progressing at a brisk pace."

"Mulapeta Port would be the central point for the import of raw materials required for key industries, like thermal coal, coking coal, fertilizers, raw cashew nuts, limestone and cooking oils. There also is an opportunity to export and import coal and pig iron required by steel manufacturing companies and to export pig iron, mineral sand, cashew nuts, granite, ferro products, jute, iron, steel products and fish products."

They said the Mulapeta Port-linked logistics would help farmers export their agricultural produce and also help in industrialization of the coastal areas and the areas surrounding the port.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to hold over 25 rallies in the coming weeks. (File Photo: PTI)

New Delhi: To hold on to power in the only southern state where it runs the government, the BJP is planning a massive "Modi blitzkrieg" in Karnataka over the next few weeks. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to hold over 25 rallies in the coming weeks. The saffron brigade will also paradrop all its heavyweights, including all its chief ministers. The Union ministers and chief ministers have been asked to keep visiting the state. To counter the rivals caste card, state chief minister Basavaraj Bommai will be relying heavily on his social engineering.

Besides the Prime Minister, the top leaders who will frequent the poll-bound state include home minister Amit Shah, BJP president J.P. Nadda (who reached the state Tuesday) and defence minister Rajnath Singh, among others. Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath will be among the partys "star campaigners". The Prime Minister is expected to start his rounds after April 24, sources said. Besides rallies, the Prime Minister is also expected to hold roadshows. All top party leaders are expected to frequent the state till May 8, which is the last day of campaigning before the May 10 election. Sources said that home minister Amit Shah could spend over 20 days criss-crossing the state.

To counter the caste equation of the Congress and the JD(S), the chief minister has unleashed his social engineering card. It may be recalled that of the 224 candidates, 62 of them are under 50 years of age. Of these 62 candidates, 15 are Vokkaligas and 15 are Lingayats. The rest are OBCs, Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.

The chief minister, Mr Bommai, has also focused on Kalyan Karnataka, the home turf of Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge.

As Mr Kharge hails from the Chittapur seat in this particular region, upstaging the Congress in its own bastion is "going to be a matter of prestige" for the BJP, a party functionary said. The Prime Minister is also likely to hold a rally and roadshow in this region. Kannada superstar Kichcha Sudeepa has, meanwhile, gone on the campaign trail for the BJP from Tuesday.
A pit dug up by BWSSB and filled with water in Doddagollarahatti of Magadi Road proved fatal for a 28-month-old boy who fell into it and drowned.

Police said Karthik, a resident of Pipeline Road in Doddagollarahatti, went out of home to play when he tumbled into the pit between 8.45 am and 9.30 am and drowned.

The boys father Hanuman, a painter, filed a complaint with the Byadarahalli police blaming a Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) engineer and contractor for Karthiks death.

Also Read | Man injured in gas cylinder explosion in Kodigehalli

Around 8.30 am, Hanuman left home to meet his employer to collect his salary. An hour later, Hanuman received a call from his wife Hamsa who informed him that their son Karthik was missing while playing outside their home as Hamsa was busy with household chores.

Hanuman rushed home and found Karthik floating in the pool of water that filled up the pit. Though Karthik was pulled out of the pit immediately, he was dead by then.

Hanuman told police that the BWSSB had dug the pit in front of is house for pipeline work and it was filled with water. He suspected that the pit must have been open while Karthik was walking out of the gate.

He accused BWSSB officials of not erecting a barricade or a sidewall around the pit to prevent people from falling inside, holding the officials responsible for his sons death. Karthik was his only son.

Pipeline-laying work was in progress at the said site. We are looking into the matter to ascertain if precautionary measures were put in place, said a senior board official.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (West) Laxman B Nimbargi said the Byadarahalli police has registered a case under IPC Section 304A for causing death due to negligence.

The boys funeral took place at Magadi Road graveyard. The BWSSB engineer and the contractor paid Hanuman Rs 25,000 to conduct the funeral.
With just two days left for filing of nominations to end for May 10 Assembly polls in Karnataka, the Congress on Tuesday announced its fourth list of seven candidates, confirming the ticket to former Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar, who joined the party after quitting BJP.

Shettar has been given the ticket from Hubli-Dharwad-Central Assembly segment which he currently represents.

A senior Lingayat leader from north Karnataka region, who had also served as state BJP president, Leader of Opposition, Speaker and Minister in the past, the six-time MLA had joined Congress on Monday, after quitting the BJP over being denied the ticket to contest the Assembly polls.

Also Read | Kateel challenges Congress to announce Lingayat Karnataka CM



Congress has fielded H D Thammaiah, who recently quit BJP and joined the party, from Chikkamagaluru, where the ruling party's national general secretary C T Ravi is in the fray.

From Shiggaon, where Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai is the BJP candidate, Congress has fielded Mohammed Yousuf Savanur.

Sitting MLA Durgappa S Hoolageri has been fielded from Lingsugur, while in Harihar sitting MLA S Ramappa has been denied the ticket and it has been given to Nandagavi Srinivas.

Other candidates named in the fourth list are Deepak Chinchore (Hubli-Dharwad-West) and M A Gopalaswamy (Shravanabelagola).

With the addition of seven names and the first three list of 124, 42 and 43 candidates respectively (including in Melukote where it's backing a candidate of a different party), the Congress has so far announced candidates for 216 out of total 224 seats.
Fighting between the army and paramilitaries in Sudan has killed around 200 people and wounded 1,800, left hospitals damaged and medical supplies and food in short supply Monday after three days of urban warfare.

A weeks-long power struggle exploded into deadly violence Saturday between the forces of two generals who seized power in a 2021 coup, Sudan's army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his deputy, Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who commands the powerful paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Analysts say the fighting in the capital of the chronically unstable country is unprecedented and could be prolonged, despite regional and global calls for a ceasefire as diplomats mobilise.

Also Read | Keralite who died in Sudan clashes was set to come home in May

Battles have also taken place throughout the vast country, and there are fears of regional spillover.

Terrified residents of the capital are spending the last and holiest days of Ramadan watching from their windows as tanks roll through the streets, buildings shake, and smoke from fires triggered by the fighting hangs in the air.

The conflict has seen air strikes, artillery and heavy gunfire.

Those compelled to venture out face queues for bread and petrol at outlets which are not shuttered. Residents are also dealing with power outages.

Volker Perthes, the head of the United Nations mission to Sudan, told the Security Council in a closed-door session, that at least 185 people have been killed and another 1,800 wounded.

"It's a very fluid situation so it's very difficult to say where the balance is shifting to," Perthes told reporters after the meeting.

Earlier Monday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres again called on Sudan's warring parties to "immediately cease hostilities". He warned that further escalation "could be devastating for the country and the region."

Medics in Sudan had earlier given a death toll of nearly 100 civilians and "dozens" of fighters from both sides, but the number of casualties was thought to be far higher, with many wounded unable to reach hospitals.

The official doctors' union warned fighting had "heavily damaged" multiple hospitals in Khartoum and other cities, with some completely "out of service".

The World Health Organization had already warned that several of Khartoum's nine hospitals receiving injured civilians "have run out of blood, transfusion equipment, intravenous fluids and other vital supplies".

In the western region of Darfur, international medical aid organisation Doctors Without Borders (MSF) reported receiving 136 wounded patients at the only hospital in El Fasher still operating in North Darfur state.

"The majority of the wounded are civilians who were caught in the crossfire -- among them are many children," MSF's Cyrus Paye said.

Due to limited surgical capacity, "11 people died from their injuries in the first 48 hours of the conflict."

Three UN World Food Programme staff were also among those killed, on Saturday in Darfur, where humanitarian missions have had medical and other supplies looted, according to Save the Children and MSF.

A number of organisations have temporarily suspended operations, in a country where one-third of the population needs aid.

Diplomatic manoeuvres seemed to ramp up Monday, as the fighting showed no signs of abating.

Influential northern neighbour Egypt announced it had discussed with Saudi Arabia, South Sudan and Djibouti -- all close allies of Sudan -- "the need to make every effort to preserve stability and safety".

The Gulf emirate Qatar spoke to African Union commission head Moussa Faki Mahamat, who is planning to "immediately" undertake a ceasefire mission.

There are, however, no more civilian flights arriving in Khartoum, where fighting has damaged aircraft.

On Twitter Daglo called on the international community to intervene against Burhan, branding him a "radical Islamist who is bombing civilians from the air".

"We will continue to pursue Al-Burhan and bring him to justice," said Daglo, whose RSF and its predecessor the Janjaweed in Darfur have previously been accused of atrocities and war crimes.

Army statements call the RSF "a rebel militia" intent on "engaging near populated areas".

The fighting broke out after bitter disagreements between Burhan and Daglo over the planned integration of the RSF into the regular army -- a key condition for a final deal aimed at ending a crisis since the 2021 coup, which derailed a transition to democracy.

Both claim to be in control of key sites, including the airport and the presidential palace -- none of which could be independently verified.

On Monday, the army resumed broadcasting on state TV.

The few grocery stores remaining open warned they will only last a few days if no supplies can enter the city.

Witnesses noted militiamen had begun driving past in private passenger vehicles with no licence plates.

While Sudan has endured decades of multiple bitter civil wars, coups and rebellions since independence, Sudanese analyst Kho lood Khair said the level of fighting inside the capital was "unprecedented".

The generals' coup derailed a transition to civilian rule following the 2019 ouster of strongman Omar all-Bashir, triggering international aid cuts and sparking near-weekly protests met by a deadly crackdown.
Sparrows Group, a key engineering and maintenance services specialist for the global energy and industrial sectors, has secured its first major contract in Kuwait.

The scope of work includes maintenance and provision of certificates of conformance for onshore rigs across sites.

As per the deal, Sparrows will be responsible for servicing a range of critical drilling equipment, including mud pumps, iron roughnecks, catwalks and top drives, to ensure the rigs are safe to return to the field.

With Kuwaits oil and gas industry now reinvigorated following a slump, 100 rigs will join the operational fleet by the third quarter.

These rigs, both new and old, require high-quality servicing, which is a significant volume of work to place on existing OEMs.

Sparrows has been recognised as an approved non-OEM maintenance provider, becoming the first non-OEM service company to hold the NOC approvals to operate in the country, and showcase its expertise and capabilities, said its top official.

"Becoming the first and currently only company to hold the approval as a non-OEM maintenance provider in Kuwait, is a proud honour, and testament to Sparrows dedication and focus on quality," remarked its CEO Stewart Mitchell.

"This is an exciting time for our drilling services portfolio, as we expand globally, taking our remarkable success in the Middle East and Asia Pacific and replicating it in the UK and in previously inaccessible locations, such as Kuwait," he noted.

Mitchell pointed out that on each rig, a quick turnaround of maintenance and servicing was required, with the country eager to kickstart its swelling oil and gas industry.

Rigs require recertification every five years, which keeps the door open for Sparrows to remain operating in Kuwait for the foreseeable future, he stated.

"With few western companies operating in Kuwait, Sparrows highly-skilled staff are sharing knowledge and supervising the clients domestic maintenance teams as they carry out their CAT IV inspections," noted Mitchell.

"Sparrows has deployed a team including project managers, drilling equipment supervisors and drilling equipment technicians - including top drive, iron roughneck and BOP hoist specialists - with the numbers onsite increasing to support the growing workload," he added.-TradeArabia News Service
G7 foreign ministers warned Tuesday that those helping Russia wage war in Ukraine would face "severe costs", as they offered a united front on another key policy challenge: China.

After two days of talks in the bucolic Japanese mountain resort town Karuizawa, the top diplomats from leading economies unveiled no new sanctions on Moscow over its invasion but pledged to crack down on those helping Russia evade the measures and acquire weapons.

The ministers also put Beijing on notice over its "militarisation activities" in the South China Sea and insisted their Taiwan policy was unchanged despite recent controversial comments from France's president.

Their final statement sparked a furious reaction from China, which said it had been "maliciously slandered and smeared".

Also Read | G7 members commit to ending new plastic pollution by 2040

While talks were dominated by Ukraine and regional challenges, including a demand that North Korea "refrain" from new nuclear tests or ballistic missile launches, the ministers covered a broad sweep of global policy problems.

They met as fighting continued in Sudan between the army and paramilitaries, forcing the insertion of last-minute language demanding both sides "end hostilities immediately without pre-conditions".

And there was renewed condemnation of the increasing restrictions placed on women and minorities by Taliban authorities in Afghanistan, described by the ministers as "systematic abuses".

They demanded the "immediate reversal" of "unacceptable decisions" including a ban on women working with non-government organisations and the United Nations in the country.

But it was clear that two topics dominated discussions above all -- the war in Ukraine, and China's growing military and economic clout.

The diplomats from Japan, Britain, the United States, Canada, Germany, Italy, France and the European Union promised to continue "intensifying" sanctions on Russia and increase efforts to respond to those offering Moscow arms or other support, warning of "severe costs".

Also Read | G7 top diplomats seek unity on China after Macron remarks

They also slammed Russia's "irresponsible nuclear rhetoric" and called a threat by Moscow to deploy nuclear weapons in Belarus "unacceptable".

"As Ukraine prepares to launch a counteroffensive to take back its land... we stand with Ukraine," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters.

The statement made clear the ministers were mindful of the furore caused by French President Emmanuel Macron's comments last week, following a trip to Beijing, that Europe should avoid "crises that aren't ours".

"There is no change in the basic positions of the G7 members on Taiwan," it said, calling peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait "indispensable" to global security and prosperity.

"For the first time in G7 history, we were able to confirm, in writing, our commitment to a free and open international order based on the rule of law," Japan's Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi said.

Blinken said he had never seen "greater convergence" on views about China and Taiwan, and the statement warned Beijing on everything from its nuclear arsenal to its business practices.

And, without directly mentioning China, the group pledged to step up cooperation against "economic coercion" -- the practice of weaponising import or export rules for political purposes.

Even the warning on offering support to Russia in Ukraine may be read as a message for China, echoing repeated statements from Western officials cautioning Beijing against directly arming Moscow.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said the ministers had "disregarded... objective facts, grossly interfered in China's internal affairs and maliciously slandered and smeared China".

"Between the lines, the relevant statement is full of arrogance, prejudice and sinister intent to oppose and suppress China," Wang told reporters, adding that Beijing had "lodged solemn representations" with host Japan.

The talks set the stage for a G7 leaders' summit next month in Hiroshima, where Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida wants to make nuclear disarmament a key plank of discussions.

Tuesday's statement devotes a long segment to disarmament and non-proliferation but contains little in the way of new commitments and refers to the "harsh security environment", suggesting a difficult path to real achievements.

It calls on all countries to transparently document their nuclear arsenals, urges Russia to stick with a moratorium on nuclear tests and calls for China to hold "risk reduction" talks with Washington.
The heads of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and the Military Intelligence (MI) met Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial and two other top judges for more than three hours and briefed them on the security issues facing Pakistan, amidst a tussle between the government and the apex court over holding snap elections in the politically crucial Punjab province.

The meeting between the spy chiefs of Pakistan and the top judges took place on Monday in the chamber of Chief Justice Bandial, the Express Tribune newspaper reported on Tuesday.

The two top spymasters ISI chief Lt Gen Nadeem Anjum and MI Chief Major General Wajid Aziz briefed Chief Justice Bandial on the security issues confronting the country, it said.

Also Read | In Pakistan, the Military, the Mian, and the Messiah

A three-judge bench -- led by the chief justice and comprising Justice Munib Akhtar and Justice Ijazul Ahsan -- on April 4 declared as unconstitutional the Election Commission of Pakistans (ECP) decision to postpone the election for the Punjab Assembly and ordered it to hold polls in the province on May 14.

On March 22, the ECP delayed the provincial assembly election in the province by more than five months, citing a deteriorating security situation in the cash-starved country.

The same bench on April 14 ordered the State Bank of Pakistan to release Rs 21 billion to the ECP for holding elections in Punjab and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province and send an appropriate communication to this effect to the finance ministry by April 17.

At an earlier hearing, Defence Secretary, Former Lt Gen Hamood Uz Zaman, requested the bench to get an in-camera briefing on security issues. But the bench had asked him to first submit a classified report.

It seems that these officials directly shared with the judges the reasons why the Army troops could not be made available for security duty on May 14, a lawyer told the paper.

April 17 was the last date to inform the ECP about a security plan as per the direction of the apex court.

Also Read | Top Army commanders to deliberate on national security challenges at 5-day conference from April 17

It is not clear whether the Supreme Court expressed satisfaction with the briefing. However, the briefing will have far-reaching implications if the judges get convinced that the security situation in the country does not allow the deployment of troops to ensure security during the poll in Punjab.

Holding provincial elections has taken centre stage in Pakistani politics as former Prime Minister Imran Khan has been pushing for snap elections in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces.

PTI Chairman Khan has been demanding early national elections since his ouster in April last year after he lost a confidence vote in Parliament.

The current term of the National Assembly will complete its five-year term in August this year. According to the Constitution, elections shall be held within 90 days after the dissolution of the lower house. This means that the election must be held by mid-October. The last general election was held in July 2018.

The PTI dissolved the Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa assemblies on January 14 and 18, respectively, in a bid to force the ruling coalition to hold early general elections.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif convened a meeting of his coalition partners on Tuesday to discuss the current political situation to take his allies into confidence about the cases in the Supreme Court about polls and the powers of the chief justice.
Russia's foreign minister met in Brazil on Monday with President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, as Washington criticized the South American leader's recent remarks on US defense support for Ukraine.

Lula is fresh off a trip to China and the United Arab Emirates, during which he raised eyebrows in the West by accusing the United States of "encouraging the war" in Ukraine.

He also said the United States and Europe "need to start talking about peace," and that Kyiv shares the blame for the conflict.

Also Read | 'Brazil is back!' Lula says during state visit to China

Sergei Lavrov, Russia's top diplomat, thanked Lula on Monday for his offer to mediate peace talks on the 14-month war.

But the visit, and Lula's recent remarks, sparked criticism from the White House, which has led support for Ukraine.

"In this case, Brazil is parroting Russian and Chinese propaganda without at all looking at the facts," US National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters.

Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira, who met with Lavrov earlier in the day, shot back later, saying: "I don't know how or why he reached that conclusion but I do not agree at all."

Lula's visit to China and the UAE, postponed by a bout of pneumonia, came after a meeting with US President Joe Biden in February.

Brazil has not joined Western nations in imposing sanctions on Russia for its invasion, and has refused requests to supply ammunition to Ukraine.

Before the trip, Lula had proposed creating a group of countries to mediate in the war, and said he would discuss this in Beijing.

After meeting with his Brazilian counterpart on Monday, Lavrov said: "We are grateful to our Brazilian friends for their clear understanding of the genesis of the situation (in Ukraine). We are grateful for their desire to contribute to finding ways of settling this situation."

Also Read | Russian Deputy PM Manturov begins 2-day India visit

"We are interested in resolving the conflict as soon as possible," Lavrov said.

But he added that any solution would have to be based on "multipolarity," accusing the West of "trying to dominate the international arena."

Lavrov's trip to Brazil comes after Lula's top foreign policy adviser, Celso Amorim, met with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin in March to discuss opening peace talks.

Brazil is Lavrov's first stop on a weeklong Latin American tour that will also include Venezuela, Nicaragua and Cuba -- countries whose leftist governments have hostile relations with the United States.

Lavrov and Vieira said their talks had also focused on energy and trade.

About a quarter of agricultural powerhouse Brazil's fertilizer imports come from Russia, while the two countries engaged in a record $9.8 billion in bilateral trade last year.
Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) leader General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, said on Tuesday the RSF reaffirms its approval of a 24-hour ceasefire to ensure the safe passage of civilians and the evacuation of the wounded.

Hemedti added that the Sudanese Armed Forces failed to "honor the ceasefire, bombing densely populated areas from the air and endangering civilian lives".

"We await further discussions with the US secretary of state on how to best address these violations," he said in a series of tweets.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres "strongly condemns" the recent launch of what North Korea said was a solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile, an official told the Security Council Monday.

The North has hailed the launch as a key breakthrough in its nuclear counterattack capabilities under leader Kim Jong Un.

"The Secretary-General reiterates his calls on the DPRK to immediately desist from taking any further destabilizing actions," said Assistant Secretary-General Khaled Khiari, using an acronym for the North's official name.

Testing the more technologically advanced solid-fuel missile was one of Kim's major goals in his military modernization campaign, announced in his New Year report.

Such missiles are easier to store and transport, more stable and quicker to prepare for launch, and thus harder to detect and destroy pre-emptively.

Guterres called on North Korea to "fully comply with its international obligations under all relevant Security Council resolutions, and to resume dialogue leading to sustainable peace and the complete and verifiable denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula," said Khiari, whose purview includes Asia.

Khiari additionally condemned the "lack of unity and action in the Security Council" on the matter, adding that the body "does little to slow the negative trajectory on the Korean Peninsula."

North Korea, he said, remained "unconstrained," with other parties "compelled to focus on military deterrence."

"The unity of the Security Council on the DPRK is essential to ease tensions and overcome the diplomatic impasse," Khiari concluded.

The Security Council's last display of unity on the issue came in 2017.

Under the administration of then-president Donald Trump, the United States led the council to adopt three resolutions imposing sanctions on Pyongyang after missile and nuclear tests.

In a joint statement Monday, nine Council members plus South Korea condemned the launch "in the strongest possible terms."

"This type of irresponsible activity, alongside destabilizing messages, is imprudent and dangerous, and we must not condone it as business as usual," they said, calling on all UN member states to "join us in strongly condemning this perilous behavior."
The Delhi High Court on Tuesday refused to entertain a PIL seeking a direction to the Law Commission to prepare a comprehensive report on uniform judicial code in consultation with high courts to make judicial terms, abbreviations, norms, phrases, court fee structure and case registration process uniform.

A bench of Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma and Justice Yashwant Varma asked the petitioner how it can entertain the plea when the Supreme Court had treated the petition to be dismissed as withdrawn.

"Your petition was dismissed as withdrawn in the Supreme Court. If your matter was withdrawn from the Supreme Court and no liberty was granted, how can we entertain it? You go and get clarification from the Supreme Court," the bench said.

To this, petitioner and advocate Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay said he had withdrawn the petition from the apex court and it's a general language used in orders.

How will I get clarification from the Supreme Court. Many times it happens, I have seen it, he said.

However, the chief justice said he has seen it for the first time and reiterated that the petitioner should first seek clarification from the apex court.

This led the petitioner to withdraw the public interest litigation (PIL) from the high court.

Petitioner seeks to withdraw the PIL to seek clarification from the Supreme Court. Petition is dismissed as withdrawn, the bench said.

In the petition, Upadhyay said he has found huge differences in judicial terms, phrases, abbreviations, court fee and case registration process used in the Delhi High Court and the Allahabad High Court.

He said the Rajasthan High Court has two benches in Jaipur and Jodhpur and both the benches have several varied descriptions regarding case types (terminologies).

"Injury to citizens is extremely large because the court fees sought for similar matters and that of similar valuation in different states under the jurisdiction of different high courts are different.

"It must be noted that judicial equality is a matter of constitutional right, its differentiation based on the jurisdiction of courts violates the Right to Equality enshrined under Article 14 which states that 'the state shall not deny to any person equality before the law or equal protection of the laws within India' and Article 15 which states that 'the state shall not discriminate against any citizen on the grounds only of religion, race, caste, sex, place of birth or any of them'," the plea said.

The PIL said unequal court fees in different states discriminate among citizens based on their place of birth and residence and it promotes "regionalism", hence it is a clear violation of Articles 14 and 15.

Besides the Law Commission, as an alternative, the plea sought a direction to the Union Law Ministry to take appropriate steps to prepare a comprehensive report on uniform judicial code in consultation with high courts.

The plea also sought the constitution of an expert committee to prepare the comprehensive report.

"The courts are not only adopting different norms and procedures for case registration and using different judicial terms, phrases and abbreviations but also taking different court fees which is against the rule of law and right to justice," the petition submitted.

On September 1, 2022, the apex court refused to entertain a similar PIL filed by the same petitioner seeking implementation of a uniform judicial code in courts across the country.

The top court referred to an earlier meeting of the chief ministers and the chief justices of all high courts and said though, the matter was discussed, but all high courts refused to implement it.
A 16-year-old boy allegedly killed a man after he tried to have unnatural sex with the minor in north Delhi's Kotwali area, police said on Tuesday.

Both the boy and the man, identified as Shambhu who was around 45-year-old, lived together, they said, adding the minor has been apprehended.

Police said the deceased's body was found on Saturday lying on the footpath of back side of the Red Fort.

Also Read | Duo cheats disabled man promising govt loan in Bengaluru

An eyewitness, Shajid Khan, who is a friend of the deceased, identified him as Shambhu, a senior police officer said.

The statement of the eyewitness was recorded and a case under Section 302 (murder) of the IPC was registered at Kotwali police station, the officer said.

During investigation, police apprehended the juvenile, a resident of Bihar, on the identification of the eyewitness. The boy confessed his crime and disclosed that he left home two years ago and wanted to go to Mumbai to work in the film industry, Deputy Commissioner of Police (north) Sagar Singh Kalsi said.

He came in touch with Shambhu at Old Delhi railway station and used to live with him. But for the last one or two months, Shambhu was trying to compel him for unnatural sex, police said.

On Friday, the deceased again tried to have unnatural sex with the boy and a quarrel broke out which resulted in his death, police said.

A blood stained stick and a stone having blood stains were recovered from the spot, police added.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday traded barb with the Congress leader and former chief minister of Karnataka, Siddaramaiah, over rescue of the states residents from Sudan, where clashes between the personnel of the army and the paramilitary forces resulted in the death of at least 180 people.

Siddaramaiah took to Twitter to allege that the Bharatiya Janata Partys governments in Karnataka as well as the Centre had not yet initiated action to bring back home the states residents stranded in Sudan.

Jaishankar retorted accusing him of being grossly irresponsible, of politicizing the situation and of endangering the lives of Indians abroad for electoral goal.

It is reported that 31 people from Karnataka belonging to (the) Hakki Pikki tribe, are stranded in Sudan, which is troubled by civil war, tweeted the former chief minister. He urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah and the states Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai as well as the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to immediately intervene and ensure safe return of the people of Karnataka from Sudan.

It is reported that 31 people from Karnataka belonging to Hakki Pikki tribe, are stranded in Sudan which is troubled by civil war. I urge @PMOIndia @narendramodi, @HMOIndia, @MEAIndia and @BSBommai to immediately intervene & ensure their safe return.  Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) April 18, 2023

(The) Hakki Pikkis in Sudan are left stranded without food since the last few days & the govt (government) is yet to initiate action to bring them back, he noted in another post on Twitter, adding: @BJP4India govt (government) should immediately open diplomatic discussions & (and) reach out to international agencies to ensure the well-being of (the) Hakki Pikkis.

With Karnataka scheduled to go to polls to elect its new State Assembly on May 10, Siddaramaiahs tweet triggered a sharp reaction from Jaishankar.

Simply appalled at your tweet! There are lives at stake; dont do politics, the external affairs minister replied to the tweet by the former chief minister. Since the fighting started on April 14th, the Embassy of India in Khartoum has been continuously in touch with most Indian Nationals and PIOs (People of Indian Origin) in Sudan.

Simply appalled at your tweet! There are lives at stake; dont do politics. Since the fighting started on April 14th, the Embassy of India in Khartoum has been continuously in touch with most Indian Nationals and PIOs in Sudan. https://t.co/MawnIwStQp  Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) April 18, 2023

Jaishankar added in another tweet that the details and locations of Indias citizens stranded in Sudan could not be made public for security reasons. Their movement is constrained by fierce fighting that is ongoing.

He also tweeted that the plans regarding them would have to take into account a very complicated security scenario.

The Embassy of India in Khartoum is in constant touch with the Ministry (of External Affairs) in that regard, he added, apparently hinting that New Delhi was working on a plan to facilitate the safe repatriation of the Indians stranded in the Northeastern African nation.

Randeep Singh Surjewala of the Congress too took to Twitter to criticize Prime Minister Narendra Modis government for failing to help the 31 Hakki Pikki Kannadigas stranded in Sudan. The Anti-Kannadiga Modi Govt has left them to their fate, instead of evacuating & ensuring their safe return. Where are Mr. Prahlad Joshi & Shobha Karandje & BJP M.Ps? SHAME ON U MR. BOMMAI! he tweeted.

Khartoum and other areas in Sudan of late witnessed violent clashes between the soldiers of the countrys army loyal to de facto president Gen Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the personnel of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) owing allegiance to his deputy and rival Gen Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo.

The clashes in Sudan already resulted in the death of an Indian. Albert Augestine, who hails from Kannur district in Kerala, died after being hit by a stray bullet on the first day of the clashes. He worked as a supervisor in a company affiliated to the Dal Group, one of the largest conglomerates of Sudan. His mortal remains could not be repatriated yet.

We have come across many instances of looting, the Embassy of India in Khartoum tweeted on Tuesday. All Indian nationals are advised please not to venture out. Please ration your supplies. The situation may continue for a few more days. Please try to take help from your neighbours. Please stay at home and remain safe.

A control room was also set up at the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi in view of the situation in Sudan and to ensure security and welfare of Indians in that country.

Soon after the violent clash between the soldiers loyal to the two military leaders broke out, the Embassy of India in Khartoum on Saturday took to Twitter to alert all Indians living in Sudan. In view of reported firings and clashes, all Indians in Sudan are advised to take utmost precautions, stay indoors and stop venturing outside with immediate effect, New Delhis diplomatic mission in the capital of Sudan tweeted. It also advised all Indians planning to travel to Sudan to postpone their departure.

Nearly 2500 Indians are estimated to be living in Sudan. Besides, about 1200 Sudanese citizens have ancestral roots in India.
Students are being forced into poverty by the cost-of-living crisis according to SDLP Jobs and Economy spokesperson, Sinead McLaughlin MLA.

He comments followed the recent release of a report by the national union for students in Northern Ireland, NUS-USI, entitled The Cost of Survival,which outlined the scale of the economic crisis facing students in further and higher education.

Ms McLaughlin said: "Our further and higher education institutions are at the heart of improving the economic performance of the North through developing the higher skills base that we need to succeed.

"The utterly unfit for purpose system of student finance and the pressures young people are facing as a result are leading many to consider pausing or leaving their studies, potentially depriving us of their skills and contributions.

This report makes crystal clear how students are being forced into poverty across Northern Ireland and highlights the particular challenges of students in further education, with apprentices being forced to survive on a minimum wage which comes to just 4.81 per hour.

The devastating shortcomings of this system have been exacerbated by the current cost-of-living emergency. I regularly hear from students who are really struggling to make ends meet and pay for the essentials, many of whom also have specific course costs like equipment, textbooks and other hidden charges throughout their time in education. Moreover, many students living in private rented accommodation will have had to divide the 600 energy support grant between the household, which often may consist of four or five individuals," said Ms McLaughlin.

Ms McLaughlin added that the plight faced by students must be tackled by a new Executive.

The Foyle MLA said: "The plight faced by students must be tackled in a new Executive, with locally accountable Ministers taking decisions in their interests. We should be able to put these concerns on a Ministers desk and hold them accountable for delivery on student demands, yet the DUP boycott has made that impossible. In the absence of devolution, I will be writing to the Secretary of State to ask how the results of this report will be acted upon.
Tanaiste Martin's Speech at Queens University Belfast

Speech

**Check Against Delivery**

Secretary Clinton, Chancellor of the University

Ian Greer, Vice-Chancellor

Thank you for organising this conference, a centre-piece of the events to mark the anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement.

I am delighted to share this stage with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Chris-Heaton Harris.

During this conference, and in other events over recent weeks, we have had an opportunity to remember not just the remarkable achievement of the Good Friday Agreement, but also the different elements which came together to make it possible.

One of the most important of these was the fact that governments in Dublin and London worked together with trust, co-operation and determination to overcome whatever obstacles emerged.

This is as true today as it has ever been, which is why I value the warm, candid and constructive relationship that I have enjoyed with Chris since we took up our current roles.

This anniversary of the Agreement is a reminder that our shared responsibility, our role as co-guarantors, is not a matter of party, policy or preference.

It is a solemn responsibility on our two governments, a treaty responsibility enshrined in the 1998 British-Irish Agreement.

And it is a responsibility underpinned by the explicit democratic wishes of the people in both parts of this island.

It is no secret that our two governments have not always acted in concert at all times in recent years. Even today, there are areas where we disagree fundamentally, such as on the Legacy Bill.

But I am delighted to say that our partnership is manifestly better now than it has been for quite some time.



Of course, like everything else of value, it needs continued care, commitment and investment.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

If we are to truly remember and honour the achievement of the Agreement, then we must all be honest in assessing the work that is still to be done; and the need for us to renew the spirit of dialogue which has been central to every advance from the earliest meetings thirty years ago up to today.

And we must never lose sight of the fundamental principles of the Agreement, which remain the foundations upon which peace and progress are built.

Together, we agreed that all state action in Northern Ireland must be anchored in human rights, with the European Convention on Human Rights as the threshold.

Together, we agreed on parity of esteem between communities and their aspirations.

And, together, we agreed the principle of consent.

The principle of consent allows everyone in Northern Ireland the right to pursue their own vision for Northern Irelands constitutional future, providing they can persuade others of their case.

And in doing this it creates the space for us to address other urgent social and economic challenges without every discussion being filtered through this one lens.

The Agreement states that the two governments will recognise the legitimacy of whatever choice is freely exercised by a majority of people of Northern Ireland whether they prefer to continue to support the Union with Great Britain or a sovereign united Ireland.

As a constitutional nationalist, I am free to pursue a united Ireland in the future, just as so many in this room, friends of mine among them, are free to make the case for Northern Ireland remaining within the Union.

In the heated debates around Brexit in recent years, some protagonists sought to change, or reframe, the principle of consent. Perhaps the intention in the Agreement got a little lost in those debates.

The principle of consent was not new, even in 1998, having been seen in the Sunningdale Agreement. And it was central to the vital Downing Street Declaration in 1993.

In the Agreement, it was agreed as part of a wider set of balances.

The referendums enshrined consent in the fundamental laws of Ireland and the United Kingdom.

All of that is to say, because it still needs to be said, the principle of consent is both simple and inviolable.

And while it is right that we take time to celebrate what has been achieved, we have much, much work to be finished.

Part of this work relates to key elements of the Agreements that have not been implemented; and part relates to our collective failure to build the reconciliation and prosperity, which is the defining challenge that falls to us.

Seamus Mallon wonderfully summed up the Agreement as not a finish but a new dispensation  and many of the opportunities opened have yet to be grasped.

The Bill of Rights and Civic Forums promised as part of giving a voice and security to all remain unfulfilled commitments.

The latter is all the more important when key institutions are so often in abeyance, held hostage to the demands of one side or the other at a given moment  all the while ignoring the demands of the public for better government.

The calls for reform of the Agreement  including the need to break the cycle of instability and suspension  have grown louder.

It is clear that the political community between unionist and nationalist has grown, and I believe that there should be reform. But that is best achieved from a position of stability.

We must get the Assembly and the Executive working  respecting the mandate of last Mays election. Then see what should, and what can, be changed.

Ladies and gentlemen,

The Agreement did not see victory or defeat. Instead it gave a fresh start to a place ravaged by divisions and by violence.

Since then, sadly, we have not gone anywhere near far enough in actively promoting reconciliation between communities.

On 10 April 1998, the words of John Hume and David Trimble on this mirrored each other.

John saying that we (can) begin to heal the deep divisions between our people, and David speaking of a great opportunity there to start a healing process here in Northern Ireland.

The spirit that informed and enabled the Agreement was a generous one. It was a willingness to step across our ancient boundaries.

It was a willingness to actually engage with the perspective of those from a different background, to see the world and try to understand this place through their eyes.

Yes, the healing has begun, but it remains very much a work in progress.

The best way to honour those whose lives were lost or destroyed by the absence of agreement, is to find once again, collectively, the spirit which made 1998 possible, and apply it to the work of bringing communities together in 2023.

Ladies and Gentlemen, this is a small island.

Regardless of your constitutional preference, it is a shared space.



The geography wont change and there are things that it makes sense to do on an all-island basis.

Thanks to the Agreement, we already promote the island, very successfully, as a single tourism destination. We manage our inland waterways together. But there is more we can do.

I launched the Shared Island Initiative, anchored in the Good Friday Agreement, to look at other things we can do together. To create a space for dialogue, for understanding, and for tackling shared social and economic problems.

My Government is putting significant resources into the Shared Island Initiative  one billion euro up to the end of this decade. We are supporting major capital projects focussed on bringing people together.

We are supporting civic society organisations that work on an all-island basis.

We are conducting unprecedented levels of research into the reality of life across our island, to understand what are the similarities and differences, North and South, in terms of education, health services, competitiveness, biodiversity, and a whole range of issues, while also funding new and exciting research collaborations between institutions on a cross border basis.

We are prompting and hosting new conversations, through our Shared Island Dialogue series, about what does it mean to share this island.

More than 2,500 people and organisations have engaged in this process so far, challenging assumptions and already sparking the establishment of a series of spin-off initiatives including a new All Island Womens Forum, and new fora on climate change and biodiversity loss.

Without prejudicing any constitutional positions, all of this is helping us to know each other better and to find ways that, working together, we can help communities to benefit from sustained economic and social progress.

Education has always been my great passion. It is the great enabler.

The Shared Island research that Ive mentioned has shown us that Northern Ireland has fallen behind in some areas of education, and perhaps most crucially in the area of school completion.

Surely this is one area where it makes sense for us to do more together?

What can we do to advance the provision of Integrated Education?

What can we in the Republic do, in terms of applying lessons from programmes, which have secured one of Europes highest school completion rates? And with targeted investment, along with the UK Government and working with the Northern Ireland Executive, to make sure that more young people complete their education and get to enjoy all the lifetime of benefits that come with that?

Ladies and Gentlemen,

On normal days, these university halls are populated by students who have had that chance. Young men and women preparing for their future with confidence and ambition.

For many, twenty-five years is more than a lifetime ago and the Good Friday Agreement is a historical text. It may frame the immediate world around them, but they have current hopes and needs.

We are not here for the past, but for the future, their future.

In the Agreement, the parties reaffirm (their) total and absolute commitment to exclusively democratic and peaceful means of resolving differences on political issues.

Of course, this is taken to mean a commitment to non-violence; taking the gun out of politics.

But there is a further element to it.

Committing to democratic means comes with a basic and inherent responsibility, the responsibility to accept democratic outcomes.

If politicians seek leadership positions through elections, they must honour the trust placed in them by delivering that leadership.

And in Northern Ireland, through the type of interlocking institutions we agreed in 1998 and endorsed in subsequent agreements, including St Andrews, that leadership must be exercised in the best interests of everyone who calls Northern Ireland home.

Whether they are British or Irish or both  or, increasingly, those at the heart of our communities who are neither British nor Irish.

The past few years, with the practicalities of Brexit, have been turbulent for Northern Ireland, and for these islands.

The European Commission and the UK Government stretched themselves in recent months to reach an accommodation that works for Northern Ireland.

I know that turbulence will take some time to settle.

That parties need to pause and reflect internally on next steps.

But I urge all elected officials to take their seats in the Assembly and the Executive and get to work on the questions of everyday life that matter to the people of Northern Ireland, including healthcare, education, policing, regional imbalances and much more.

Northern Ireland is a place transformed since 1998. But there is much work to do.

As an Irish Government we will play our part.

Chris and Prime Minister Sunak have shown that the British Government will play its part.

I know that our international supporters, who contributed so much to making peace possible, will stay the course.

As we heard with such passion last week from President Biden, the United States remains the steadfast ally of all in Northern Ireland who seek to secure peace and prosperity.

But the essential next step is for the politicians of Northern Ireland to assume their responsibilities, fill the roles and institutions created by the Good Friday Agreement  all of them  and get to work to secure the futures of the young people of Northern Ireland, and the generations to follow.

Let us recapture and renew that generous spirit of the Agreement.

Lets make the effort again to see this place and see what has happened through the eyes of those we dont agree with.

When we do, I am certain that we will recognise the potential of the opportunity before us; the potential of a decade of investment and renewal; the potential of our young people when they are given an education and the chance to thrive  potential that we dare not squander.

Thank you.

ENDS

Press Office

18 April 2023

 Previous Item | Next Item 
Container vessel Safeen Pride made its inaugural visit to Shuwaikh Port in Kuwait, which is part of the new weekly service recently launched by AD Ports Group to improve connectivity and facilitate trade with Kuwait.

Safeen Pride, part of the Safeen Feeders fleet, has a total tonnage of 15,636 tonnes, a carrying capacity of 16,855,210 tonnes of deadweight, capable of carrying 1,374 TEU.

The vessel was received by Dr Matar Hamed Al Neyadi, Ambassador of the UAE to the State of Kuwait, Captain Ammar Mubarak Al Shaiba, Acting CEO of the Maritime Cluster and Safeen Group at AD Ports Group and Issa Abdullah Al-Mulla - Acting Director General of the Kuwait Ports Corporation.

Trade exchange

Dr Matar Hamed Al Neyadi, Ambassador of the UAE to the State of Kuwait, said: "We are pleased to witness the launch of this new container shipping service from Khalifa Port to Shuwaikh Port, which will contribute to enhanced trade exchange between the UAE and Kuwait. Furthermore, we anticipate that this new service will provide the private sector with more transportation options for goods and merchandise."

He added: "The collaboration that delivered this new service is testament to the vision and aspirations of the wise leadership of both great nations. It will enhance economic cooperation, facilitate trade and drive logistical connectivity."

Captain Ammar Mubarak Al Shaiba, Acting CEO Maritime Cluster and Safeen Group, AD Ports Group, said: We are proud to see the arrival of Safeen Pride in Kuwait, marking the commencement of our recently launched service from Khalifa Port to Shuwaikh Port. This new route, which includes a Ro-Ro service, highlights our leading role as the regions premier facilitator of logistics, industry and trade. We are committed to establishing robust business ties and developing new forms of cooperation to continually enhance trade connectivity.

Fraternal relations

Issa Abdullah Al-Mulla, Acting Director General of the Kuwait Ports Corporation, said: We are pleased to welcome the first container shipping vessel coming from the UAE, which reflects the fraternal relations and the large volume of trade exchange between the two countries. Trade relations between the UAE and Kuwait have witnessed remarkable growth over the past few years, which reflects the relentless efforts to expand cooperation and enhance the volume of non-oil trade exchange."

The launch of the new container and Ro-Ro services to Kuwait come as part of AD Ports Groups continued drive for excellence and leadership in the field of maritime trade and logistics, strengthening commercial connectivity, providing economies of scale and facilitating global trade movement through its flagship Khalifa Port.

Following recent acquisitions, AD Ports Group has the third largest independent feeder company globally, by volumes carried, with a total container capacity of 100,000 TEUs, linking core markets in the Gulf, Indian Subcontinent, Red Sea and Turkiye.-- TradeArabia News Service
On Wednesday, April 19, Apple Chief Executive Tim Cook is set to meet India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi and deputy IT minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar. Cook is visiting India to inaugurate the country's first ever Apple retail stores in Mumbai and New Delhi.



Tim Cook expressed his excitement about the upcoming visit on Twitter, Hello, Mumbai! We cant wait to welcome our customers to the new Apple BKC tomorrow.

Source: Twitter

Also read: Apple completes 25 years in India: What CEO Tim Cook said about the milestone

The visit foresees high ambitions from the organisation in the Indian market for smartphones where Apple has been actively increasing its assembly through contracts in India and has been boosting exports.

iPhones are primarily assembled by Foxconn, Wistron and Pegatron. They are Apple's contract manufacturers and Apple aims to assemble iPads and AirPods, along with iPhones in India, the worlds second-largest market for smartphones. x`

India Cellular and Electronics Associations data suggests that around $9 billion (738 Crore) worth of exports of smartphones were established from India between April 2022 and February 2023 and more than 50 percent of the exports were under iPhones.

Source: Apple.in

With the initiation of Indias first Apple retail store, which will be located at the Jio World Drive mall in Mumbai's Bandra-Kurla Complex and its second store in Select Citywalk Mall in Delhi, Apple puts forth the clear idea of expanding its market in India and working extensively towards the manufacturing of its products.

Currently, the Apple plant in India manufactures iPhone 14 and the older models of the variant but with the expansion, we can expect the plants in India to assemble Pro variants as well.

Also read: A full list of iPhones that Apple could discontinue post-iPhone 15 series launch

On April 18, the maiden retail outlet for Apple will open in Mumbai which will see the arrangement for Mumbai Rising, a skillset series organised from April 18 to May 25.

The series aims at featuring local artists from various skills in the domains of film, art and music sharing and teaching these skill sets. Apple Music has already set up a playlist under the title Apple BKC, which is based on the city.

For more technology news, product reviews, sci-tech features and updates, keep reading Digit.in or head to our Google News page.
The Samsung Galaxy A23 5G has made its way to Amazon, where it is available with some exciting discounts and deals. The Samsung Galaxy A23 5G comes with advanced features and is available with an exchange offer and bank offers. The smartphone was launched in India in January 2023 at a starting price of 22,999 but it can be bought for less than half of its price.

Amazon has come up with deals you dont want to avoid. If you are looking for a mid-range smartphone, read the article below.

Samsung Galaxy A23 5G deals on Amazon

Samsung Galaxy A23 5G is available on Amazon at a starting price of 22,999, however, there are some discounts which could reduce the price. Amazon has offered an exchange offer on the smartphone which promises a discount of up to 21,100. If you have an old spare smartphone, you can trade it in for the Samsung Galaxy A23 5G and the phone will cost you almost nothing.

Next up we have some bank offers we can avail while purchasing Samsung Galaxy A23 5G:

-Flat 2000 Instant Discount on SBI Credit Card.

-5% Instant Discount up to 250 on HSBC Cashback Card Credit Card.

Samsung Galaxy A23 5G specifications

A 6.6-inch PLS LCD display can be seen in Samsung Galaxy A23 5G with a resolution of 1080 x 2408 pixels. This display supports up to 120Hz refresh rate and is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 5.

A Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G processor is integrated into the Samsung Galaxy A23 5G which is paired with up to 8GB RAM with 128GB storage. The phone runs Android 12 but can be upgradable to Android 13.

It houses a quad camera setup with a 50-megapixel primary camera, a 5-megapixel ultra-wide lens, a 2-megapixel macro lens and a 2-megapixel depth sensor. On the front, it is equipped with an 8-megapixel selfie camera.

The phone comes with a 5000mAh battery with 25-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.
Xiaomi recently launched the 13 series which includes Xiaomi 13 and Xiaomi 13 Pro. Now the company is going to launch the most premium smartphone of the series Xiaomi 13 Ultra. It has been teasing it for a very long time now. We dont have all the confirmed specifications but leaks suggest some.

I am comparing it to the top-of-the-line smartphones of two leading companies, Samsung and Apple.

Xiaomi 13 Ultra vs Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 14 Pro Max: Design

Xiaomi 13 Ultra comes with a very neat and unique design. The design of the smartphone makes it look like an expensive device. It will come with a faux leather back panel which also features an antibacterial coating against dust. It features a metal alloy frame and it has a big circular camera module on the back. The camera module makes a big bump on the back and it will launch in at least two colours; White and Green.

The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra is available in four different colours; Phantom Black, Green, Cream and Lavender. It features a frosted matte panel on the back that looks like the design of the Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra a lot. The back of the phone is equipped with three large camera rings and two smaller rings that house the laser AF and cameras. It weighs 234g and is 8.9mm thick. The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra also comes with an S Pen which can be pulled out from the phone.

Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max comes with a glass body with an aluminium frame in the middle. The phone weighs 240 grams and is 7.9mm thick. It comes in four colour options; Space Black, Silver, Gold, and Deep Purple. On the back it has three camera rings along with a Lidar scanner and LED flash placed inside a square camera module. On the front, it has a pill-shaped notch which Apple likes to call Dynamic Island.

Xiaomi 13 Ultra vs Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 14 Pro Max: Display

The Xiaomi 13 Ultra is rumoured to feature a 6.7-inch 2K AMOLED display with the support of up to 120Hz refresh rate.

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is equipped with a 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a resolution of 1440 x 3088 pixels. The display supports HDR10+ and up to 120Hz refresh rate.

iPhone 14 Pro Max features a 6.7-inch LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED display with a resolution of 1290 x 2796 pixels. This display supports Dolby Vision and 120Hz refresh rate as well.

Xiaomi 13 Ultra vs Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 14 Pro Max: Performance

The Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC is said to be integrated into the Xiaomi 13 Ultra which will reportedly be paired with up to 16GB RAM and up to 512GB storage. The Xiaomi 13 Ultra could operate on MIUI 14 which is based on the Android 13 operating system.

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra comes in three storage options that are 12GB 256GB, 12GB 512GB and 12GB 1TB, along with a customised Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor. This phone runs on OneUI 5.1 based on Android 13.

iPhone 14 Pro Max works on Apples latest A16 Bionic chipset and it operates on iOS 16 out of the box but can be upgradable to iOS 16.4.1. This phone can be bought in four storage options; 128GB, 256GB, 512GB and 1TB.

Xiaomi 13 Ultra vs Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 14 Pro Max: Camera

Xiaomi 13 Ultra could sport a quad camera setup holding a 50-megapixel Sony IMX989 primary camera and three more 50-megapixel sensors. On the front, it will boast a 32-megapixel selfie shooter, according to the reports.

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra comes with a huge 200-megapixel primary camera along with a 10-megapixel periscope telephoto sensor, a 10-megapixel telephoto sensor and a 12-megapixel ultra-wide lens. It also features a 12-megapixel selfie shooter.

There is a triple camera setup in the iPhone 14 Pro Max along with a TOF 3D LiDAR scanner. The triple camera setup contains a 48-megapixel main camera, a 12-megapixel telephoto sensor and a 12-megapixel ultra-wide lens. For the front, it has a 12-megapixel selfie shooter as well.

Xiaomi 13 Ultra vs Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra vs iPhone 14 Pro Max: Battery

Xiaomi 13 Ultra is expected to come with a 4900mAh battery with 90-watt fast charging support and 50-watt wireless fast charging support.

A 5000mAh battery can be found in Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra which supports 45-watt fast charging support and 15-watt wireless.

Apple claims that iPhone 14 Pro Max can be charged 0 to 50 per cent in 30 mins, having a 4323mAh battery.

For more technology news, product reviews, sci-tech features and updates, keep reading Digit.in or head to our Google News page.
Vedanta signed MoUs with Korean partners for display manufacturing

India-based resources conglomerate Vedanta, looking to build India's first display manufacturing plant, has got South Korean suppliers on board after obtaining support from Japanese and Taiwanese companies.

Mint and The Economic Times reported that when attending a roadshow organized by KOTRA (Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency), Vedanta signed MoUs with 20 South Korean firms to establish an electronics manufacturing hub. AvanStrate, a Japan-based LCD manufacturer Vedanta bought in 2017, will be part of the proposed hub. According to the reports, Avanstrate has manufacturing facilities in Korea and Taiwan. Its Korean site in Pyeongtaek manufactures TFT display glass and develops wafer-lass, ultra-thin glass, next-generation cover glass, and AR/VR glass applications.

Akarsh K Hebbar, global managing director of Vedanta's semiconductor and display business, said in a statement that Vedanta, along with the Indian government, showcased the immense investment opportunities that India has to offer, supported by conducive policies, talents, and a robust innovation ecosystem.

Before bringing Korean partners on board, Vedanta signed MoUs with 30 Japan-based companies at the Vedanta-Avanstrate Business Partners Summit held in Tokyo in December 2022. Furthermore, Taiwan-based Innolux signed an LCD technology transfer agreement with Vedanta in February 2023 to build India's first integrated flat panel display factory, including TFT, color filter, and cell frontplane process, as well as module assembly.

India's government unveiled an INR760 billion (US$92 billion) semiconductor and display fabs incentive scheme, providing up to 50% of the project cost to build a local supply chain. Vedanta has applied for both the wafer fab and display projects, and plans to build the fab units in Gujarat.

Besides the Indian government's effort to build a self-reliant display ecosystem, Samsung Display and China-based CSOT have invested in India to assemble modules and manufacture TV open cells. CSOT celebrated achieving the cumulative production of 100,000 TV open cells in December 2022, WitsDisplay reports.
WTO panel: India's import duty on mobile phones inconsistent with obligation

A WTO panel ruled that India's decision to impose import customs duty on communication products, including mobile phones, violated its obligation under the global trading system in a dispute with the EU, Japan, and Taiwan.

On April 17, a WTO dispute panel issued reports regarding the import tariffs imposed by the Indian government and said that India violated trade rules when it imposed tariffs on imports of communication products, including mobile phones, switches, routers, base stations, antennas, and parts for communication products.

WTO recommended that India bring such measures into conformity with its obligations under the GATT 1944.

Since Modi took office, India has begun imposing import tariffs on communications products under several initiatives, such as the Phased Manufacturing Programme for mobile phones, to encourage global manufacturers to invest in India and reduce India's reliance on imported goods. India's government claims that India is not a signatory of the Information Trade Agreement 2015 (ITA-2) and is free to impose import duties on these imported products.

The EU requested consultations under WTO with India in April 2019 before it requested the establishment of a WTO panel in February 2020. The WTO panel received third-party submissions from Brazil, Canada, Japan, Korea, Norway, Taiwan, Turkey, Ukraine, and the US in April 2021.

According to WTO, the panel found that the ITA does not set forth India's legal obligation at issue in this dispute and does not otherwise limit the scope of India's tariff commitments. However, the panel said India's tariff treatment of certain products classified under 850440 (static converters and telecommunication apparatus), 851712 (mobile phones), 851761 (base stations), 851762 (machines for reception, conversion, and transmission for regeneration of voice, images, or other data), and 851770 (parts for communication goods) is inconsistent with Articles II:1(a) and (b) of the GATT 1994.

Before the US-China trade war and the pandemic, the import duties helped India build one of the largest mobile phone ecosystems and boosted India's mobile phone exports. China-based mobile phone brands and Samsung Electronics decided to invest in India to gain a piece of India's huge mobile phone market and avoid the more than 20% tariffs on imported goods.
Volkswagen and Ford to invest in Indonesian EV battery ecosystem with international partners

Indonesia is expecting more international investment to inject into its EV segment. PowerCo, Volkswagen's battery subsidiary, has expressed interest in building a battery ecosystem in Indonesia with partners like Ford, Vale and Huayou Cobalt.

Indonesian president Joko Widodo led a delegation to visit Germany for the Hannover Messe 2023, the world's largest exhibition for industrial technology. According to Indonesia's Cabinet Secretariat, Jokowi met with representatives from PowerCo, German chemical company BASF and French mining company Eramet on April 16.

Indonesian investment minister Bahlil Lahadalia said PowerCo expressed interest in investing in the country's EV battery ecosystem during the meeting. PowerCo plans to partner with Indonesia-based mining company Vale, Ford and China-based material processor Huayou, according to Bahlil.

He added that PowerCo will also work with French miner Eramet and Indonesian Merdeka Gold Copper and Kalla Group.

Jakarta Globe reported that Bahlil did not reveal how much Volkswagen will invest in the battery ecosystem through PowerCo. The minister said the cooperation will encompass joint venture investment and raw material supplies.

According to Reuters, Volkswagen said it is in a positive exchange with the Indonesian government and suppliers. It added that the country is important in terms of raw materials.

BASF also intends to gain a presence in Indonesia. Bahlil said BASF plans to invest US$2.6 billion with Eramet in battery precursor production facilities running on green energy in North Maluku. He said the construction is expected to begin in late 2023.

BASF told Reuters that it is assessing the development of a nickel and cobalt hydrometallurgical refining complex with Eramet, which was announced in 2020.

Indonesia is trying to lure EV investment to the country, especially with its rich nickel resources. In March, Ford announced a US$4.51 billion battery material investment in Indonesia, the first one the carmaker has ever done in Southeast Asia. The project, joined by Vale and Huayou, will produce 120 kilotons of mixed hydroxide precipitate (MHP) production annually.
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New Delhi, Apr 18 (UNI) External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and visiting Russian Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov co-chaired the 24th session of the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission, during which the two sides agreed to work together to unlock the full potential of bilateral trade and economic ties, including by addressing the trade deficit and market access issues.

Manturov, the Co-chair of the India-Russia Inter-governmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation (IRIGC-TEC), visited New Delhi from April 17- 18. He was accompanied by senior representatives from several Russian Ministries.

During the visit, EAM and Manturov, who is also Minister of Trade and Industry, Co-Chaired the 24th session of the Inter-governmental Commission which is a mechanism for monitoring bilateral progress of trade and economic cooperation between the two countries.

The Sides reviewed the entire gamut of bilateral trade and economic relationship, and agreed to work together to unlock its full potential including through addressing the trade deficit and market access issues.

Manturov also held bilateral meetings with Commerce & Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and NSA Ajit Doval, an official statement said.

On April 17, the "India-Russia Business Dialogue was held with participation of major businesses from both sides which enabled the Co-Chairs and business leaders to engage and drive the momentum of shared priorities of deeper and wider bilateral commercial cooperation.

The visit is in continuation of the regular high-level dialogue between the two Sides. EAM had last visited Russia in November 2022, it said.

The Russian Embassy in tweets said: During his visit to India, Russian Deputy PM/Minister of Industry & Trade D.Manturov had a number of bilateral meetings where special attention was paid to the development of trade & investment relations, financial & industrial cooperation.

In particular, Manturov met with Minister of Commerce and Industry of India Piyush Goyal. The parties discussed current issues and prospects for cooperation in such industries as railway and heavy machinery, aircraft building, shipbuilding, metallurgy and the chemical industry.

Manturov invited Mr Goyal & Indian enterprises to take part in international industrial exhibition INNOPROM in July 2023. The need to intensify the work on preparation of a free trade agreement between EAEU & India to increase & diversify trade turnover was also noted.

During the meeting with India's Finance Minister, necessary steps to ensure uninterrupted mutual settlements, primarily with use of national currencies, were discussed. Mutual interest in concluding Russia-India agreement on encouragement & mutual protection of investment was noted.

At a meeting with National Security Advisor to the Prime Minister of India Ajit Doval, an exchange of views took place on priority areas for the development of Russia-India cooperation.

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Apple tripled India iPhone output to $7 billion in FY23: report

Apple Inc assembled iPhones valued more than $7 billion in India last fiscal year, tripling production in the worlds fastest-growing smartphone arena following an expansion beyond China, its main production base, say reports.

India now accounts for nearly 7 per cent of Apples iPhones production as the US company expands its cooperation with Foxconn Technology Group to Pegatron Corp, people familiar with the matter said. India accounted for an estimated 1 per cent of global iPhone market in 2021.

The Taiwanese companies that make most of the worlds iPhones from sprawling factories in China, have added assembly lines at a rapid pace over the past year. But, with chaos at Foxconns main iPhone City complex in Zhengzhou, Apple had to struggle for part supplies last year, which drove home vulnerabilities in Apples supply chain and forced it to cut output estimates.

For Apple, which was exploring ways to reduce its reliance on China as tensions between Washington and Beijing continue to escalate, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modis offer of a spate of incentives to boost local manufacturing looked attractive for the US phonemaker.

Apple exported iPhones valued at $5 billion in the year ended March 2023, nearly four times as much as in the previous period, reports citing sources said. Apple will likely try to simultaneously manufacture the next iPhones in India as well as in China, sometime in the fall of 2023. And, if the aggressive expansion of its suppliers continues, Apple could assemble a quarter of all its iPhones in India by 2025.

Apple has been pushing suppliers Foxconn, Wistron Corp and Pegatron to ramp up India production. The trio, which together employ some 60,000 workers in India, make models ranging from the aging iPhone 11 to the latest iPhone 14 in the country.

Apple is at the heart of Indias ambitions to become a major manufacturing hub and alternative location to China. Apples production chain encompasses hundreds of companies across the world and employs millions, much of that now in China.

Apple will open its first two retail stores in India next week, one in the financial hub of Mumbai and another in the capital New Delhi. Chief executive Tim Cook is scheduled to fly in to personally inaugurate the two stores, underscoring the domestic markets rising importance.

Cupertino, California-headquartered Apple has also sought changes in Indias labour laws as part of its effort to expand local production and create mega factories.

Its largest contract manufacturer, Foxconn, plans to invest about $700 million on a plant in southern India to make phone components and possibly iPhones.
Keshub Mahindra, Chairman Emeritus of Mahindra Group, passes away at 99

Keshub Mahindra, Chairman Emeritus, Mahindra Group passed away peacefully on Wednesday morning, He was 99. A well-known philanthropist who redefined good corporate governance in India. Keshub Mahindra was known for his vision, business acumen, leadership by example, and above all, for uncompromising professional integrity.

Keshub Mahindra led the Mahindra Group for 48 years as chairman and expanded it from being an automobile manufacturer to other business segments like IT, real estate, financial services and hospitality.

He played key roles in forging business alliances with global majors such as the Willys Corporation, Mitsubishi, International Harvester, United Technologies, British Telecom and many others.

In 2012, Keshub Mahindra, who remained as one of the directors on Mahindra & Mahindra's board for 64 years overseeing the group's metamorphosis from a steel trading company to a $15.4 billion diversified group, handed over the baton to his nephew and the then vice-chairman and managing director Anand Mahindra.

In a statement, Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) president Vinod Aggarwal condoled his demise saying the Indian automobile industry has lost one of its pioneers.

"His leadership in the early years of the journey of the Indian auto Industry had led to India being recognised as an important player globally and also helped in India becoming a manufacturing hub for the Automobile sector," he added.

Born on 9 October 1923, in Shimla, Keshub Mahindra was an alumnus of the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, USA. He joined Mahindra & Mahindra in 1947 and took on the role of chairman in 1963. Under his stewardship, the company transformed from a steel trading company to a diversified group of companies.

Keshub Mahindra, who contributed significantly to the industry, had been appointed by the government of India to serve on many committees, including the Sachar Commission on Company Law & MRTP and the Central Advisory Council of Industries. From 2004 to 2010, Mahindra was a member of the Prime Ministers Council on Trade & Industry. He was also a member of the apex advisory council of Assocham and also served as President Emeritus of the Employers Federation of India. He was an honorary fellow of the All India Management Association and a member of the Council of the United World Colleges (International) in the United Kingdom. In 1987, he was awarded the Chevalier de l'Ordre National de la Legion d'honneur by the French government.

Keshub Mahindra was and will always remain a source of inspiration for me and the entire Mahindra Group. He was a man of principles and led from the front to preserve the legacy of our founders, which has ensured that the organisation has remained rooted in ethics, values and good corporate governance. Keshub Mahindra was known for his astute business acumen that helped in transforming Mahindra into a diversified federation of companies. His compassion, and people-centric approach made him a global business icon, who was much loved and respected, Anand Mahindra, chairman, Mahindra Group, said.

Keshub Mahindra has also served on several boards and councils in both the private and public domain, including SAIL, Tata Steel, Tata Chemicals, Indian Hotels, IFC and ICICI. He was also the founder chairman of Housing and Urban Development Corporation Limited (Hudco), vice chairman of Housing Development Finance Corporation Ltd, chairman of Mahindra Ugine Steel Co Ltd, and director of Bombay Dyeing & Manufacturing Co Ltd and Bombay Burmah Trading Corporation Limited.

Founded in 1945, Mahindra Group is one of the largest and most admired multinational federation of companies with 260,000 employees in over 100 countries. It enjoys a leadership position in farm equipment, utility vehicles, information technology and financial services in India and is the worlds largest tractor company by volume. It has a strong presence in renewable energy, agriculture, logistics, hospitality and real estate.
India's direct tax collections increased by over 160% between FY14 and FY23

Net direct tax collections of the central government increased by 160.17 per cent to Rs16,61,428 crore (provisional) in the 2022-23 financial year from Rs6,38,596 crore in the 2013-14 fiscal, figures released by the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) on Thursday showed.

Gross direct tax collections increased by over 172.83 per cent to Rs19,68,780 crore (provisional) in the 2022-23 financial year from Rs7,21,604 crore in the 2013-14 fiscal.

Similarly, net direct tax collections of the central government increased by 121.18 per cent to Rs14,12,422 crore in the financial year 2021-22 from Rs6,38,596 crore in the 2013-14 fiscal, as per CBDT estimates.

Gross direct tax collections increased by over 126.73 per cent to Rs16,36,081 crore in the 2021-22 financial year from Rs7,21,604 crore in the 2013-14 fiscal.

Direct tax buoyancy at 2.52 in the financial year 2021-22 is the highest recorded over last 15 years, the release points out, adding that the direct tax to GDP ratio increased to 5.97 per cent in the 2021-22 financial year from 5.62 per cent in the 2013-14 fiscal.

The cost of collection has decreased from 0.57 per cent of total collection in the 2013-14 financial year to 0.53 per cent of total collection in the 2021-22 fiscal.

CBDT has been releasing key statistics relating to direct tax collections and administration in public domain from time to time. It has further released time-series data as updated up to 2021-22.

The availability of the Time-Series data in public domain will be useful for academicians, research scholars, economists and the public at large in studying long-term trends of various indices of the effectiveness and efficiency of Direct Tax administration in India. This time series data is available at www.incometaxindia.gov.in, according to a finance ministry release.
Chris Heaton-Harris has said powersharing is the surest way to secure Northern Irelands place in the Union, as he said real leadership is about having the courage to say yes.

The Northern Ireland Secretary said those who are proud of the regions place in the Union should put the Union first and restore the devolved institutions.

Downing Street has insisted the speech did not represent the Government toughening up its messaging towards the DUP, which is currently blocking the operation of the powersharing institutions at Stormont.

Responding, DUP MLA Emma Little-Pengelly insisted her party would not be pressurised or bow to presidents and prime ministers and would only return to Stormont when its concerns over sovereignty about post-Brexit trade were addressed.

Mr Heaton-Harris was speaking at a three-day conference at Queens University to mark the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement at a time when Stormont remains effectively collapsed.

The DUP has said it will not participate in the assembly and ministerial executive until its concerns are addressed around the post-Brexit Northern Ireland Protocol  an arrangement the party contends has undermined the regions place within the UK.

The party has expressed concerns over the Windsor Framework, which the UK agreed with the EU earlier this year in an attempt to reduce the economic barriers on Irish Sea trade and persuade the DUP to call off its Assembly boycott.

Mr Heaton-Harris said the narrative that unionism was not served well by the Good Friday Agreement is wrong.

Speaking in the Whitla Hall at Queens, he said he has been struck by a narrative that has become louder in recent years  a narrative that the Agreement struck in 1998 did not achieve great things for unionism.

He said: That it was somehow all-out wins for nationalism. That narrative is wrong. And all of those, all of us who support the Agreement, must be vocal in countering it.

Today, the principle of consent is so often taken for granted but it was an important and hard-won guarantee that settled Northern Ireland to remain as part of the United Kingdom.

Mr Heaton-Harris said the simple reality is that people tend to change the status quo only when the status quo is not working, or people simply stop making the case for it.

Devolved powersharing institutions created a status quo that those of us who value Northern Irelands place in the Union can robustly and successfully promote and celebrate, he said.

So let no-one tell you that powersharing is at any way at odds with unionism.

Instead it is the surest way by which Northern Irelands place in the Union can be secured, he said, in comments that prompted applause from the crowd.

Mr Heaton-Harris said the people of Northern Ireland are demanding better, more responsive public services, greater economic prosperity and a brighter future for their children.

The biggest threat to Northern Irelands place in the Union is failing to deliver on these priorities, he said.

I make no apologies for being proud of Northern Irelands place in the Union and for wanting it to continue.

Others who share that view should put the Union first, restore the devolved institutions and get on with the job of delivering for the people of Northern Ireland.

Mr Heaton-Harris said real leadership is about having the courage to say yes, telling the crowd: Like David Trimble, David Ervine before in 1998, Dr Paisley in 2006, real leadership is about knowing when to say yes and having the courage to do so.

Asked about the tone and content of Mr Heaton-Harriss speech, the Prime Ministers official spokesman said that ministers had used similar messaging before, amid efforts to restore powersharing.

We think it is important that the people of Northern Ireland have an up and running, functioning executive, he said.

Our priority is ensuring that is delivered, it is something we have been working on before the framework and obviously we believe that the framework provides the right foundation for powersharing to return.

Ms Little-Pengelly, who also spoke on the second day of the Queens conference, insisted her partys concerns were not manufactured.

It doesnt matter if you agree with those grievances, she said.

They exist. Theyre real. Theyre genuine. If they had been listened to two years ago, the institutions would not have collapsed, if the promises made to unionism in Northern Ireland had been kept the institutions would not have collapsed. And I do want there to be hope. We need there to be hope. I want to build a better future for Northern Ireland. That can only happen with inclusion and consensus and us working together and listening to each other, even if we dont agree with where we are coming from.

Meanwhile, Irelands deputy premier Micheal Martin also called for the return of the Stormont executive, saying the UK Government stretched themselves to achieve the Windsor Framework.

The past few years, with the practicalities of Brexit, have been turbulent for Northern Ireland, and for these islands, he said.

The European Commission and the UK Government stretched themselves in recent months to reach an accommodation that works for Northern Ireland.

I know that turbulence will take some time to settle, that parties need to pause and reflect internally on next steps.

But I urge all elected officials to take their seats in the assembly and the executive and get to work on the questions of everyday life that matter to the people of Northern Ireland, including healthcare, education, policing, regional imbalances and much more.

Mr Martin also called on the Northern Ireland parties to recapture the spirit of the Good Friday Agreement.

Let us recapture and renew that generous spirit of the Agreement, he said.

Lets make the effort again to see this place and see what has happened through the eyes of those we dont agree with.

When we do, I am certain that we will recognise the potential of the opportunity before us.

The potential of a decade of investment and renewal, the potential of our young people when they are given an education and the chance to thrive, potential that we dare not squander.

European Commission vice-president Maros Sefcovic did not speak about the Windsor Framework specifically, but hailed the importance of inclusivity.

In a panel discussion focused on the Good Friday Agreement being a template for resolving global conflict, Mr Sefcovic said lesson number one is respect your partner.

He also said that the establishment of a strong personal relationship is important, adding that he was happy to have had a strong relationship within a very short period of time with both Foreign Secretary James Cleverly and Mr Heaton-Harris.

The event at the Queens University Belfast has seen the participation of major political figures including former US president Bill Clinton, former prime minister Sir Tony Blair and former taoiseach Bertie Ahern.

Later, Mr Clinton is set to give a speech at the Guildhall in Derry.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is scheduled to make a closing address to the conference on Wednesday ahead of a dinner event which former prime ministers Boris Johnson and Liz Truss are expected to attend.
Dhaka, Apr 18 (UNI) A total of 48 leaders and activists of BNP have been sentenced to different jail terms in a case filed over the attack on the motorcade of then leader of the opposition and incumbent Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in Satkhira in 2002.

Four persons including former lawmaker and district BNP President Habibul Islam Habib have been sentenced to life term in jail and 44 others sentenced to seven years in jail.

Judge of Satkhira Special Tribunal-3 Biswanath Mondal announced the verdict on Tuesday.

According to the case statement, on 30 August, 2002, Sheikh Hasina, the then opposition chief, came to visit the wife of a freedom fighter, who was raped and was admitted to Satkhira Sadar Hospital.

Sheikh Hasina was returning to Jashore after visiting the freedom fighters wife and her convoy came under attack in Kalaroa upazila of the district.

Sheikh Hasina survived the attack relatively unscathed but about 12 Awami League leaders and workers were injured along with some journalists. About 15/20 vehicles were vandalized during the attack.

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Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) says it is proud to report that "a phenomenal group of business students", four class groups in all, came together during their Business Ethics and Corporate Citizenship module and raised monies for the two charities, Make-a-Wish Foundation and SOSAD Ireland.

The group managed to raise an impressive 4,600 to divide between the two well deserved charities. The four class groups included, all final year business students from the Bachelor of Business Studies, BB (Hons) Global Marketing, Bachelor of Business Studies (Hons) and the Higher Diploma in Business.

Under the guidance of their lecturer Dr Maeve Mc Ardle, the group held fundraising events for selected charities as a portion of their continuous assessment work. The four classes voted unanimously for two charities SOSAD Ireland and the Make a Wish Foundation.

The group chose to host a 10K run/walk and organise a pub quiz as their fundraising events. Charitable donations for these events were collected on campus using donation buckets, by sponsor cards for those doing the 10k, an online donation site called iDonate and through the sale of tickets for the pub quiz.

Alison Grant and Katie Pike, students on Year 3 of the Bachelor of Business Studies Course said: We co-headed the planning team, marketing team and operations team. From this module weve discovered how to be better leaders, how to delegate tasks and keep up communications between groups.

"In a short space of time, we had nearly 100 people looking to us for guidance, so we had to be very organised and adaptable and become more assertive and confident within ourselves. I think partaking in this project is a great opportunity for any business student who wants to learn real life skills and apply everything theyve learned from the course into an event.
Louth and Meath Education and Training Board (LMETB) have announced the appointment of Ms. Sinead Donnelly to the position of Co-ordinator of the Louth and Meath Regional Education and Language Team (REALT) which is hosted on behalf of the Department of Education by Louth and Meath Education and Training Board (LMETB) for counties Louth and Meath.

The primary role of the Regional Education and Language Teams (REALT) Coordinator is to assist the transition of Ukrainian, Non Ukrainian pupils and students and their families into Irish schools by assisting them in securing school places and in providing education support structures and related services.

The REALT Coordinator will support schools in the Louth and Meath area to meet the needs of these children as they emerge, to advise and support the Department in developing new capacity where required, and to co-ordinate the provision of education services to schools and families.

These teams are ensuring that clear, accessible information flows are in place between schools, local education support services and national support structures in relation to people arriving from Ukraine.

In congratulating Sinead on her appointment to this role, Ms. Fiona Kindlon, Director of Schools, LMETB stated:

Having worked as an Educational Welfare Officer with TUSLA Education Support Services (TESS) and more recently with the International Protection Accommodation Services (IPAS), Sinead brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the role particularly in the areas of school placement and student attendance.

"During her time with both TUSLA Education Support Services (TESS) and IPAS Sinead has also built very positive working relationships with the schools in the Louth and Meath area and this will greatly benefit the work of REALT in counties Louth and Meath as Sinead commences in her new role.

Speaking about her appointment, Sinead said:

It is a great privilege to be offered the role of REALT Coordinator. Having worked as an Educational Welfare Officer, for seven years and recently in 2022, having the opportunity to work in the International Protection Accommodation Services, I feel that I have had an opportunity to gain a very valuable insight into what the role will entail.

"I have been very fortunate to already has worked in both the Louth and Meath Schools, as an Educational Welfare Officer and look forward to having the opportunity to work with both the schools and my TESS colleagues in both of those areas, once again."

Sinead took up her appointment on Monday 17 April 2023 and can be contacted at realt@lmetb.ie and on 086 1036571.

As at the 5 April 2023, the Department of Education have confirmed that a total of 556 Ukrainian pupils are enrolled in primary schools across Counties Louth and Meath while a further 308 Ukrainian students are enrolled in post primary schools across Counties Louth and Meath.
Just 28 hectares were afforested in Louth between 2018 and 2022, the smallest amount of area afforested for any county, according to figures released today by the Central Statistics Office.

15 hectares were afforested in Louth in 2022. Just four other counties, Carlow (four hectares), Dublin (three hectares), Monaghan (seven hectares), and Waterford (three hectares), afforested less area than Louth last year.

Of the 28 hectares afforested in Louth between 2018 and 2022, zero hectares were afforested in Louth in 2021, two in 2020, one in 2019 and ten hectares in 2018.

The counties with the next lowest amount of area afforested between 2018 and 2022 were Dublin with 55 hectares in five years, and Carlow with 67 hectares.

Nationally, the area afforested in 2022 was 2,273 hectares, a 13% increase from 2,016 hectares afforested in 2021. Afforested area declined from 6,947 hectares in 2007 to 2,273 hectares afforested in 2022.

Broadleaf species comprised 42% of the 2022 afforestation area, while Sitka spruce accounted for 49% of the 2022 afforestation area. Area planted by farmers accounted for 23% of the total afforested area in 2022.

Commenting on the release, Niamh Shanahan, Statistician in the Environment and Climate Division of the CSO, said: "The report shows the area afforested in 2022 was 2,273 hectares (ha) which was 33% of the area planted in 2007. The area afforested in 2022 was a 13% increase on the area afforested in 2021.

"The proportion of broadleaf species planted in 2022 was 42% which is the highest share in the 2007-2022 series. The share of afforested area planted by farmers in 2022 was 23% which was an increase on their 2021 share of 18%, but a sharp decline from their 2014 share of 97%.

Alder and Ash were the main broadleaf species planted during 2007 to 2013 while Alder and Birch were the main species from 2015 to 2022. Sitka Spruce was the dominant conifer species and comprised 85% of coniferous species in 2022.

County Cork had the largest afforested area every year from 2007 to 2016, and from 2019 to 2022. Cork accounted for 18% of the total afforested area in 2022 followed by Clare (9.3%), Galway (9.2%), and Roscommon (7.7%).

The highest average parcel size of afforested area over the 2007-2022 period was 8.4 ha in 2009. In 2022 it was 7.4 ha, the highest since 2010."
Fianna Faiil Senator Erin McGreehan has welcomed the announcement of the successful applicants for the GAA Walking Tracks initiative.

Under the funding, Annaghminnon Rovers GFC will receive 15,000 while Naomh Martin will receive 25,000.

This once-off 815,000 funding provided by Healthy Ireland is designed to make community walking tracks located on GAA grounds more accessible to more people.

Senator Erin McGreehan said: Im delighted to see this announcement of the successful clubs for the Irish Life GAA Healthy Club Project.

"With funding being provided, Annaghminnon Rovers GFC will be granted 15,000 while Naomh Martin will receive 25,000.

"GAA clubs are doing brilliant work in fostering social connections and expanding access to their facilities, which improves the health and well-being of everyone who uses them.

"I want to commend Annaghminnon Rovers and Naomh Martin for their significant contribution to their communities and thank the GAA for their dedication and hard work throughout the process.

In partnership with Healthy Ireland, funding of 815,000 was made available through a competitive application process to affiliated GAA, Camogie and LGFA clubs in the 26 counties to upgrade existing walking tracks situated on club grounds.

Almost 340 applications were received and following a comprehensive evaluation process by a selection committee, 54 clubs across 26 counties were successful.
The issue of sheep attacks by dogs, particularly during lambing season, has been raised by Deputy Ruairi O Murchu in Leinster House recently.

The Sinn Fein TD said the issue had been discussed with him by his colleague Cllr. Antoin Watters and by many farmers, particularly in relation to the commonage on the Cooley Mountains.

He said that Louth County Council, the dog wardens and even An Garda Siochana are attempting to ensure that people understand the responsibilities of dog owners.

He said: We need to look at the legislation that underpins it. I am not entirely sure what "effectual control" of the dog means.

If everyone did the right thing, we probably would not need half the rules, but this is a very specific issue.

He said he had spoken to a farmer earlier that day, Tom, who had said that sometimes when large dogs are on leads, the leads could be 25 ft long so there is no chance of controlling them.

Deputy O Murchu said: We do need to look at this. I know the difficulties with enforcement.

Tom also spoke about the fact that at times people are involved in other outdoor pursuits, possibly involving motor bikes and quads.

There must be engagement with those who are involved in all these sorts of activities.

We need responsibility and good manners. People are talking about the possibility of by-laws, but we must consider legislative pieces also.

Deputy O Murchu said this week that he has submitted an oral Parliamentary Question to the Minister for Agriculture seeking an update as to how the issue is being progressed.
The Prime Minister will vow to give everything to deliver the Good Friday Agreements vision of a united society in Northern Ireland.

Rishi Sunak is due to address a conference in Belfast as part of commemorations marking the 25th anniversary of the signing of the Belfast (Good Friday) Agreement (BGFA).

During a speech set to be given on Wednesday, the Conservative Party leader is expected to say that he will use the full force of the UK Government to help grow Northern Irelands economy and fulfil the true promise of the peace pact.

The 1998 deal, signed by former prime minister Sir Tony Blair and former taoiseach Bertie Ahern and partly brokered by the US, helped stem the sectarian bloodshed of the Troubles that had blighted Northern Ireland for decades.

Following concessions made on both sides during the negotiations, the Good Friday Agreement created powersharing institutions at Stormont that involved nationalists and unionists governing Northern Ireland together in a mandatory coalition arrangement.

While the pact largely ended the Troubles, which had claimed more than 3,600 lives since the late 1960s, it has failed to bring long-term political stability in the region and devolution has collapsed several times in the last two decades.

The anniversary comes amid another period of collapse, with the DUP blocking powersharing in protest at post-Brexit trading arrangements that have created economic barriers between Northern Ireland and Great Britain.

Mr Sunaks Windsor Agreement, revealed earlier in the year, contains a series of reforms which the Prime Minister hopes will ease trade frictions and also encourage the DUP to form a new government in Belfast with Sinn Fein.

He will travel to the city after Prime Ministers Questions to address Queens Universitys Agreement 25 conference and host a Gala Dinner to commemorate the anniversary.

The Prime Minister is expected to say: Together we must fulfil the true promise of the 1998 agreement.

That future enshrined in the very words of the text  of sustained economic growth, and where we tackle the problems of a divided society.

And I will give everything to help deliver that vision.

BGFA promised prosperity and a more integrated society and we have work to do to deliver on that promise.

During his dinner speech, which former prime ministers Boris Johnson and Liz Truss are expected to attend, Mr Sunak will also herald those who helped bring about the agreement a quarter of a century ago.

Courage, imagination, and perseverance  those qualities brought an imperfect but enduring peace to a place taught to believe no such peace was possible, Mr Sunak will say.

To all those who led us to that peace, including those here in this hall and those no longer with us  let us take this moment to say to you: thank you.

Having negotiated the Windsor Agreement with the European Union, Downing Street said Mr Sunak will address his economic ambitions for Northern Ireland.

Officials said the British leader is keen to deliver a prosperous economy and a more united and contented society for the province, with plans in his speech to touch upon attracting greater investment and building upon the cyber, life sciences, financial services and creative industries.

In extracts of the speech briefed beforehand, Mr Sunak said: I know that journey to prosperity wont be easy  and we arent there yet.

But this is my commitment to you: I will use the full force of the UK Government to help you make this one of the best places in the world to start and grow a business, create jobs, train and learn new skills, and attract investment.

The event will round off the recent period of Prime Minister-led events to mark the anniversary of the 1998 agreement.

Having met US President Joe Biden in Northern Ireland last week, Mr Sunak will speak with architects of the Good Friday Agreement at the Gala Dinner, along with Irish and US representatives.

The dinner will be attended by political leaders, international dignitaries and leading charities, No 10 said.
Naypyidaw, Apr 18 (UNI) The foreign ministers from the Group of Seven (G7) on Tuesday condemned the activities of the Myanmar military government and called for a cessation of violence and the country's return to a democratic path.

"We continue to strongly condemn the military coup in Myanmar, remain deeply concerned about the deteriorating security, humanitarian, human rights, and political situation, and express our solidarity with its people  We call on the Myanmar military to immediately cease all violence, release all political prisoners and those arbitrarily detained, and return the country to a genuinely democratic path," the statement said.

The foreign ministers also condemned the exclusion of 40 Myanmar political parties, including the National League for Democracy, from the political process by the country's military authorities, according to the statement.
New Delhi, Apr 18 (UNI) The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Tuesday issued a notice to the Centre, States and Union Territories over the reported deaths of inmates due to alleged torture in private drug de-addiction centres.



The Rights body took suo motu cognizance of a media report of yet another death of an inmate at a private drug de-addiction centre, which is the third such incident in the recent past. Reportedly, a 24-year-old man was beaten to death by the people running a de-addiction Centre in Uttarakhands Dehradun on April 10. Prior to this, the Commission had taken suo motu cognizance of two similar incidents at de-addiction centres in UPs Noida and Ghaziabad, and it sought reports.
The EBRD is lending  38.23 million to JSC Vilniaus viesasis transportas

Loan to fund the purchase of up to 91 battery- or electricity-operated trolleybuses

The city of Vilnius to become the first municipality in the Baltic states to join the EBRDs flagship Green Cities programme

The EBRD is supporting the development of greener public transport in Vilnius, by providing a 38.23 million loan to JSC Vilniaus viesasis transportas (VVT), the citys urban transport company, to upgrade their trolleybus fleet to modern standards.

The loan is complemented by a 7.65 million concessional loan provided by the TaiwanICDF, via the High-Impact Partnership for Climate Action (HIPCA; also supported by Austria, Finland, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Spain and the United Kingdom).

The EBRDs investment will enable VVT to purchase up to 91 modern battery-electric trolleybuses with n-motion charging (enabling route flexibility and fully autonomous battery-electric driving for limited distances) and zero tailpipe emissions. This will support the company in transitioning to an all-electric fleet of vehicles, while enhancing the quality, reliability and accessibility of Vilnius trolleybus services.

The improved daily commute for Vilnius residents, including those with limited mobility, will encourage a modal shift from private vehicle usage to the use of public transport, contributing to significant reductions in local air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, and helping to avoid 2,240 tonnes of CO 2 emissions per year.

The investment will also serve as a trigger project for Vilnius to join the EBRDs flagship Green Cities programme. The programme supports cities as they transition towards a greener future across all urban sectors and uses a systematic approach to identify, prioritise and address their most pressing environmental challenges.

Vilnius will become the first EBRD Green City in the Baltic states, in keeping with its recent selection as one of the European Unions Net Zero Cities (NZCs).The NZC programme is part of the broader EU Green Deal, with ambitions to achieve urban climate neutrality by 2030.

Susan Goeransson, Head of Infrastructure Europe in the EBRDs Sustainable Infrastructure Group, said: Vilnius is one of the largest cities and faster-growing capitals in the Baltic states and we are proud to support investments for more sustainable, accessible, inclusive and reliable urban transport in the city. This is a project of great significance as it will tangibly improve the commuting experience of Vilnius residents and encourage more people to use public transport. We are also pleased to welcome Vilnius to our Green Cities network and support them in meeting their climate objectives. We hope this paves the way for other green cities in the region.

Vilnius city Mayor Remigijus Simasius said: Vilnius has already renewed a large percentage of its buses. Now it is time to buy trolleybuses...[or] rather, electric buses that charge from the catenary cable and can run part of the route without direct contact with it. I am pleased that we already have bank financing and that the procurement procedures are being finalised. Soon, public transport will be even more attractive to passengers. We are also very happy that Vilnius will now form part of the EBRD Green Cities programme, which will enhance the citys substantial green efforts of past years and will complement its ambitions to achieve climate neutrality by 2030 through the EU NetZeroCities programme.

Darius Aleknavicius, CEO of VVT, said: This project will enable VVT to purchase new electric-powered trolleybuses with battery technology for autonomous (off-grid) operations, with zero tailpipe emissions and with modern standards in terms of comfort, accessibility, speed and quality. As part of VVTs programme of fleet modernisation, we are ready to replace all our ageing vehicles in the future, as well as increase our competitiveness in the market with the best price and running costs.

VVT is the 100 per cent municipally owned operator of the citys buses and trolleybuses on its urban and suburban networks. VVT was established in 2011 by merging the bus operator and trolleybus operator into a single entity.

The EBRD is a leading institutional investor in Lithuania, with 1.3 billion invested in 117 projects there to date.
THIS year, a team of Cork students brought back Kaizokucon to UCCs campus.

Kaizokucon is the universitys official anime and sci-fi event held annually on the grounds of UCC.

It didnt take place for three years during the pandemic, with the organisers forced to adapt and run the entire convention online using the online platform Discord.

Now in its ninth year, it is back in person and is one of Irelands highest attended anime conventions. Anime is a type of hand-drawn and computer-generated animation originating from Japan

Despite the nerves in the lead up, not knowing if they would come back full force having seen numbers dwindle online in the past few years, Kaizokucon 2023 turned out to be a huge success.

There are a range of diverse activities and events held across the weekend, with everything from Super Smash Bros Tournaments and a wide variety of panel discussions to Pub Quizzes and the Cosplay Walk the Plank event - cosplay is the practice of dressing up as a character from a film, book, or video game.

This years convention took place from March 31 to April 2 and included panel discussions, a vibrant trade hall and a charity auction.

And Kaizokucon 2023 achieved record-breaking attendance and fund-raising this year, with 2,300 guests across the weekend and raising 17,000 for Lauralynn - Irelands Childrens Charity.

This years director, Cian Pierce, talked about some of the highlights of the 2023 line-up.

Kaizokucon is a non-profit, charitable event. Any funds raised from ticket sales become the budget for next years convention, says Cian.

All of the funds raised from the Pub Quiz, Charity Auction and Charity Cafe go directly to LauraLynns Childrens Hospice, raising 8,000 for the charity last year.

Students at Kaizokucon, UCC. Pictures: Max Bell

We had an incredible line-up this year. We have three headliners every year.

Theres a really vibrant community of cosplayers in Ireland. We like to celebrate that, so one of our special guests is always a cosplayer. Then we usually have two voice actors. Some years its one voice actor and one internet personality. This year we are lucky to have had two voice actors.

This year we had Leah Clark and Jonah Scott. They are known for their voice acting in My Hero Academia and B-Stars. These are both really big guests and we were really lucky to have them come down for the convention.

Our cosplayer this year was Akakioga Cosplay from the U.S. It was her bolstering of the community around her that really stood out to us, Cian added.

Across the weekend, there was a wide variety of events taking place, with something for all ages.

Kaizokucon has been the only event I have come across that hosts not only a puppy party but also a burlesque 18+ performance on the same weekend.

Obviously those are our headliners but we had a large selection of special guests, a lot of which are returning guests, said Cian. We partnered up with Munster Lost and Found to do a little puppy party where you can come along and play with puppies for a couple of hours.

We also had special guest performances from Peacock Parlour on the Saturday evening.

While the convention is for all ages, some panels and events were age restricted, Peacock Parlour being one of them, said Cian.

Peacock Parlour, hosted and produced by Foxy P. Cox, put on an amazing collection of cabaret and burlesque performances with a diverse and fun cast including Dez Scrace, Viktor Complex, Aurora Divine, Kia Koke and Holly Wood.

A team of Cork students have brought back Kaizokucon to UCCc campus. Kaizokucon is the universitys official Anime and Sci-fi event held annually on the grounds of UCC. Pictures: Max Bell

This took place in the Boole lecture theaters, which is a nice change from your everyday academic lectures!

The Trade Hall at Kaizokucon took place in Devere Hall this year. This has a wide variety of vendors and artists that tailor to nerd culture, with anything you would need for Table Top Role Playing Games, gaming dice, anime clothing merchandise, figurines, props, etc.

We also bring down ten Irish artists to show off their art and sell their work at the convention, Cian said.

In addition, the convention also had a wide range of music and bands to catch across the weekend.

Incredible performances from Factotem and the Irish Video Game Orchestra were just the tip of the iceberg.

A stand at Kaizokucon, UCC. Pictures: Max Bell

Radio Kaizo took over the airwaves of UCC 98.3FM for the weekend.

Starting out on Discord, Jim and Eric interviewed all the special guests attending over the weekend and provided the backing track for the event, which played across the campus.

This is an impressive achievement from this years student committee, to have pulled off such a successful weekend amidst academic demands and deadlines.

This year was a huge success,= setting standards high for next years student committee for Kaizokucons 10th anniversary, an event thats not to be missed.
Crawford Supported Studio (CSS) is a creative space committed to empowering disabled artists. They have been working for years to support these talented practitioners and this month are proud to share a dedicated webspace showcasing the work.

The studio is particularly excited to launch the sites wonderful selection of artist portrait films. The films, co-created by innovative filmmaker and photographer Clare Keogh, are beautiful; everyone involved, from facilitators to artists, is suitably delighted with the results.

The filmmaker

I spent a few months documenting individual artists. I spent time dropping into the supported studio, having the cup of tea. My work was a really slow build, getting to know each artist, coming to understand their process, says Clare.

The delicacy of her process is evident in each film. All eight artists showcase their unique work in an individual way, alongside Clares sound choices, camera movements and written text.

Eoin OBrion of Crawford Supported Studios.

These artists are as prolific as any and just require that individual support. The facilitators set very high expectations. It is a very professional set-up. Theres a polish there that youd see in any studio and really the artists work is phenomenal. They are not held back by anything  they just create. The work flows from the artists. The colour is so wonderful to be around.

There is no hint of false praise in her account of their work.

As viewers, we gain so much from their art because their work is absolutely on a par with any artist out there. It is so vibrant and there is such a youthful sense in the room, even though the artists span across all ages.

She was particularly heartened to be invited into artist Mary Rose Marshalls home.

Her teddy bears are her inspiration. She was very comfortable to be in her own bedroom and it was wonderful to expand the video beyond the studio.

Mary Rose Marshall of Crawford Supported Studios. Picture Clare Keogh

Clare clearly feels privileged to have been invited into this special creative community.

There is a real sense of collaboration between everyone in the studio space. Relationships are key to everything and I was lucky to have a lot of time there.

Background to the studio

The studio is anchored in a unique long-term partnership between MTU Crawford College of Art & Design and Crawford Art Gallery, with ongoing support from Cork City Council and Cope Foundation.

When artist and nurse Hermann Marbe first discovered an artists calling among the people he cared for at the John Birmingham Day Care Centre in 2009, he felt their art should develop in the centre of the city, and not on its margins.

Brid Heffernan of Crawford Supported Studios

He began by gathering the artists in a supportive studio space on Sullivans Quay. Since his death it has moved to its current location. Dedicated studio days now take place in the Crawford Art Gallery on Tuesdays and MTU Crawford Art College of Art & Design on Thursdays each week. The group includes artists from Glasheen Art Studio Programme (GASP) founded by Marbe, and Cuig (Creativity Unlimited Integrated Group), founded by the Mayfield Arts Centre.

Valuable Contributions

Louise Foott is the Head of Arts in Health and Education at Munster Technical University (MTU).

Hermann Marbe noticed that for some residents art wasnt just a pastime and that with support they could develop a robust art practice, she says. Weve had a few exhibitions of the artists work in the Crawford. On the first occasion, we had to convince them why the art deserved to be seen but straight away they were asking us when we could do the next one.

"The work speaks for itself. Some has been purchased to form part of the national collection.

The artist also have pop-up sales and small exhibitions. 2023 will be an exciting year for CSS artists with highlights to include: a profile piece on artist Ide Ni Shuilleabhain on RTEs This is Art in April; a national meet-up of supported studios in September and a mural project with Cork Penny Dinners and artist Ailbhe Barrett.

Ailbhe Barrett with her work. Picture Clare Keogh

You realise how narrow our experience of people is, when you spend time with these artists, says Louise Foott.

I travelled with them to various supported studios abroad. We were stopped in traffic in New York once and one of the artists went over and gave someone a big hug. We put so much emphasis on words we assume they are not able. Their work is incredible but they may not be able to tell us what the concept is. The portraits films are a way of allowing them to present themselves as artists without having to put it into words. We hope to have an exhibition of them in the Crawford and they will also live on our website. We have films of eight artists and we hope to get funding to do more. Foott recognises how the creation of art, excellent art, changes the publics perception of people with disabilities.

These artists all have really valuable contributions to make and by supporting them we are making them feel included and valued as citizens.

David Connolly with one of his artworks. Picture Clare Keogh

The Artists

CSS currently creatively supports sixteen artists members: Katie Whelan, Rosaleen Moore, Tom OSullivan, Ide Ni Shuilleabhain, Yvonne Condon, Ailbhe Barrett, Brid Heffernan, David Connolly, Marie Sexton, Stephen Murray, Angela Burchill, Anna Stack, Nicola Moran, John Noel Kenneally, Mary Rose Marshall.

I caught up with some of the artists during their Tuesday session on Grand Parade last week.

Angelas Burchills work is all about people. During the pandemic she concentrated on the people she was missing. A prolific portrait artist, Angela works primarily with pastel pencils on paper and treated wood. She says, I like to work on portraits of my people in LArche because they are all my friends. It makes me happy to draw them because they are the people l live with, work with and share my life with.

Artist Rosaleen Moore is delighted to show me her colourful depiction of Goldilocks and the three bears. She tells me that she likes buildings and refers to many paintings of famous buildings she has depicted in the past, including St Finbarrs Cathedral and the City Hall in Cork City. I see them on my way out of the studio and am stunned by their originality and vibrancy.

I dont take pictures of the buildings. I see them and then I paint from what I remember in my head. Dont ask me what kind of brain I have, she jokes.

When asked if she enjoys her practice she beams. I love it. I love everything about it. I often take up the whole table at home for the day because Im never finished working on something

Ailbhe Barrett is sitting next to Rosaleen when I visit. She says she always uses photograph. One picture in front of her is of the Aras an Uachtarain. Another is her take on the Mona Lisa, who she has turned into a blonde, just for a change, she smiles.

Show her the one you made with Mala, Rosaleen suggests and Ailbhe goes through her phone to find a lengthy stock-motion video. Her supervisor tells me a composer from Cork College of Music is currently working on a score for the impressive work.

Tom OSullivan in the studio. Picture Clare Keogh

Tom OSullivan is also prolific in his work. He paints first on card or board, then layers pastels on top, then cuts with a ruler. In 2019, he was awarded a mentoring grant by Arts & Disability Ireland allowing him to work collaboratively with the artist Tom Climent. He has three giant canvases in storage and is always working on more. This morning he has three paintings drying which he will return to in the next stage of his process.

Katie Whelan of Crawford Supported Studios. Picture Clare Keogh

Katie Whelan, sitting on one of two large tables, likes to work with her Disney princesses. She works with charcoal and produces layers and layers. She also finishes her pieces with giant hearts. Her supervisor refers to her work as being the essence of joy. She is also into fashion and tends to create in a style that matches what shes wearing that day.

Stephen Murray shares a happy thumbs-up as I pass. His work is meticulous and often architectural. Stephen works methodically, with deep concentration and an impressive awareness of the whole picture plane, large or small. He has done large-scale work, his facilitator tells me. Then he went through a phase of very detailed work and now he is working with broad planes of colour, to create carefully considered abstract compositions.

Ide Ni Shuilleabhain uses a bold, confident line, working quickly and with great concentration, often using oil pastels on paper. Ides distinctive graphic style emphasises geometric shapes. She is drawn to strong colour. Ide composes still life from observation, as well as drawing imagery from collected books, magazines and photographs.

Mary Rose Marshall, depicted in the video with her teddy bears, is drawing her dolls when I visit. Above them she has written, I love my dolls to bits. She returns to the things she loves most throughout her work.

View all of the artists films here: http://crawfordsupportedstudios.com

Pictures and Video by Clare Keogh.
CORK County Council is to write to the Greek Embassy to state its solidarity with two human rights activists, including one whose mother lives in Cork, who are facing a number of charges in Greece.

Sean Binder, whose mother lives in Togher, volunteered as a lifeguard from 2017 to 2018 with a humanitarian non-governmental organisation (NGO) on the Greek island of Lesbos, assisting asylum seekers arriving in small boats from the nearby Turkish coast.

Along with Syrian refugee and human rights activist Sarah Mardini, Mr Binder was arrested in 2018 and accused by Greek authorities of espionage, aiding human trafficking, and belonging to a criminal organisation.

At a recent meeting of Cork County Council, the local authority agreed to write to the Greek Embassy, expressing its solidarity with the two activists. The motion was successfully brought before last Tuesdays full council meeting by Green Party councillor, Liam Quaide.

Cork County Council also agreed to circulate the motion to all local authorities.

During the meeting, Cllr Quaide gave a detailed breakdown of the current situation. He said Mr Binder was among a group of 24 volunteers and aid workers to be charged by the Greek government, and have spent the last five years in limbo awaiting court proceedings.

In January 2023, a judge in their trial decided to annul the less serious, misdemeanour charges brought against them. However, the group continues to face other criminal charges, including human trafficking, that could result in 25 years in prison.

It is a perverse situation that those who have extended a hand of support to those same people are now being treated as criminals and are potentially facing long prison sentences, Cllr Quaide said.

Id ask that we as a council join with MEPs in calling on the Greek Government to drop these charges.

The motion was seconded by Fianna Fail councillor, Gearoid Murphy.

Green MEP for the South constituency, Grace OSullivan, said that the charges are politically motivated and are intended to instil a climate of fear among those helping refugees.

More than 70 of her colleagues in the EU have signed a letter, drafted by Ms OSullivan, indicating their support for Mr Binder, and calling for the charges against him to be dropped.
Cork should ban businesses from making the move to card only payments so that less tech-savvy customers can still pay in cash, according to a local councillor.

Independent councillor Ken OFlynn called on Cork City Council to introduce bylaws to not allow card only businesses and to ensure that all legal tender is accepted in any businesses operating in the city.

Mr OFlynn said he had been alerted to the matter by members of the public after the recent opening of a new business in the city centre which does not accept cash. He said businesses making the decision to go card-only are leaving some customers behind.

I believe it should be a condition, that Cork City Council should be ensuring that all our citizens, and all our tourists, are serviced correctly, he said.

It is legal tender. You do have the obligation to take it as far Im concerned.

Mr OFlynn said it should be added to the planning conditions that all businesses should accept cash as legal tender.

More and more, we seem to be alienating a certain part of the population, he said. Those who are not tech-savvy, those who do not trust credit cards, or people who like to carry cash on them.

There is a generation of people who feel they are not being listened to, he said.

If we are going to be a city of inclusion, we have to be inclusive in all dimensions, said Mr OFlynn.

Thats not just older people. Its people who are unemployed, or in receipt of various social welfare payments.

"There is a certain element of people who are still only comfortable using cash. To be told that we dont take cash here, it does feel rather elitist.

"I understand that it is convenient for businesses, but we have to put the customers and the patrons first.
A judge sentencing a man for pushing a member of An Garda Siochana to the ground during a disturbance in Douglas village said: It has to stop  it doesnt do any good for society.

Judge Olann Kelleher then imposed a four-month prison term on the Polish man visiting Cork who pleaded guilty to obstructing the garda. 33-year-old Piotr Woycik appeared at Cork District Court by video link from prison, having been remanded in custody since the incident occurred on April 6.

Sergeant Gearoid Davis said Woycik of no fixed address came to attention on that date at Church Road, Douglas, Cork, when he was seen acting suspiciously. Detective Garda David Hickey approached the defendant and he fled. The detective later came across him at Douglas village shopping centre.

Upon seeing Det Garda Hickey he ran at him, knocking Det Garda Hickey to the ground.

"He again fled from the detective causing damage to his jacket. Following a short foot pursuit he was apprehended and arrested.

The accused made a number of comments through a Polish interpreter when the prosecution was giving an outline of the circumstances of the case.

Piotr Woycik said: I did not resist arrest.

"I allowed him to arrest me.

He went on to deny pushing the detective and said he slipped into the injured party.

Judge Kelleher said on that point:  I dont accept that.

The judge said the accused appeared to be changing his plea to one of not guilty. Solicitor, Eddie Burke, said the defendant was pleading guilty to the offence and the related charge of being drunk and a danger.

Mr Burke said the 36-year-old had lived in Ireland for a while back in 2016 but returned to live in Poland. This latest incident occurred during a brief visit to Cork to visit family members.

When he saw the guard, unfortunately he did panic and ran away. He was only visiting.

"This happened on April 6 and he had a return ticket to return to Poland on April 7. He does apologise, Mr Burke said.

Judge Kelleher imposed a four-month prison sentence on the accused, backdated to when he went into custody.
A security man at a fast food restaurant in Cork was told by a drunken man that he was going to f*** him up during an incident at the premises.

Nick ORegan of Larkhill, Gurth, Vicarstown, Blarney, County Cork, pleaded guilty to being drunk and a danger and engaging in threatening behaviour.

The 35-year-old defendant was involved in the altercation with a security guard at McDonalds on St. Patricks Street.

In the presence of Garda Kevin ONeill, the defendant pointed at a security guard and said, Ill get you. Im going to f*** you up.

And at the height of the incident he lunged towards the security guard.

The defendant apologised for his inappropriate language on the occasion.

At Cork District Court Judge Olann Kelleher fined him 100 and 250, respectively, for the drunkenness and threatening behaviour.
SINN Fein TD for Cork North Central, Thomas Gould, has called on the Minister for Transport to carry out a review into the NCT system as the long delays that drivers are experiencing are causing havoc across the country.

The Deputys calls come as figures for Cork show 34,909 people are awaiting their NCT date with a further 6,303 on a cancellation list.

Mr Gould said:

The system is under real stress and consideration needs to be given to extending the time between tests by allowing the test time to run from when the car is tested rather than from when it falls due. At present many cars are only a few months in test when the next test becomes due because of the long delays.

The NCT system was introduced to conform with an EU directive that sought to set standards of road worthiness and control emissions right across all EU member states.

Vehicles require an NCT once it hits the four-year-old mark, then every second year until its tenth year, when an annual test is required.

Pandemic restrictions meant that a number of tests were postponed and led to a sizeable backlog.

As the system struggles to catch up, there are now delays of over four weeks to get an NCT here in Cork, but we know the reality is much worse, Teachta Gould added.

Sinn Feins Communications and Transport Spokesperson Martin Kenny TD has suggested that the Minister of Transport Eamon Ryan should consider changing the testing time criteria from the same month every year, to a year from when the test is completed.

That would certainly go some way to reducing the huge wait time faced by people.

The additional staffing at NCT centres and longer operating hours are welcome and will help, but the backlog is being compounded by more older cars falling due faster.

An intervention in the system will be required to get it under control, and Sinn Fein have solutions," Teachta Kenny added.
GARDAI responded to a row outside a casino where a young man was being refused entry and now the culprit has been jailed for causing the disturbance.

Mathew Ginnifer pleaded guilty at Cork District Court to a charge of engaging in threatening behaviour, arising out of the incident.

Sergeant Gearoid Davis said Ginnifer had 13 previous convictions for engaging in threatening behaviour. In total he has over 100 previous convictions.

Judge Olann Kelleher imposed a sentence of two months which will run concurrently with 16 months he is serving in respect of several other charges.

The 28-year-old who resides at Cork Simon Community came to the attention of gardai almost a year ago in relation to the casino incident.

Garda Jan Haandrikman attended to a call at Tudor Casino, Marlboro Street on May 14 2022 to investigate a report of a man acting abusively towards security.

Upon arrival the suspect was there. The guard viewed downloaded CCTV which showed the defendant acting in a threatening manner towards security officers.

He is observed squaring up to security and throwing kicks in the direction of one security man, having been earlier removed from the premises, Sgt. Davis said.

Frank Buttimer solicitor said he thought that this offence would have been taken into consideration with a number of public order incidents  for which Ginnifer got the 16 months sentence  except that it was not before the court in time for that sentencing hearing.
HOSPITAL overcrowding levels have climbed to an all-time high as some 92 patients wait on trolleys today in Cork University Hospital.

Meanwhile, a total of 40 patients in the Mercy University Hospital find themselves on trolleys today bringing the numbers of people without beds across both hospitals to 132.

The numbers have sparked calls from the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation for a bespoke plan to tackle overcrowding in Cork City INMO Assistant Director of Industrial Relations for the Southern Region, Colm Porter described how the situation has spiralled out of control.

Overcrowding in both major hospitals in Cork has become out of hand, with records being broken in both Cork University Hospital and the Mercy today, he said.

It is clear now that this warrants a national response from the Health Service Executive. Mr Porter highlighted the pressures on frontline workers.

The situation in Cork University Hospital is continuing to deteriorate week on week, he said.

Our members are under significant pressure across all wards. The bed deficit that currently exists in CUH is impacting the ability of our members to carry out the safe care they have been trained to provide to patients.

"Immediate engagement is required to ensure that discharge facilities are available in the community and that all capacity that can be used from the private sector is being deployed.

INMO Industrial Relations Officer, Liam Conway described the situation as intolerable.

The conditions in the Mercy University Hospital over the last two weeks have proved to be intolerable for nurses, Mr Conway said.

There are real concerns for nurse safety when it comes to fire safety and infection control due to the levels of overcrowding. Our members are calling it for what it is inside the Mercy  dangerous.

"Patients are being cared for near exit doors and in areas blocking fire safety equipment. This is not acceptable. As well as a national response from the HSE, the hospital and the South/Southwest Hospital Group is required today on de-escalation protocols and the cancellation of all non-urgent elective care.
A Cork-based mother had to travel to Poland when her ex-partner abducted their child - and it was only with lawyers and the assistance of local police that she managed to get the child back to Ireland.

On an access day  where the mother was told he was bringing their son to Dublin Zoo  he flew with the child to Poland without any permission.

It emerged at an in camera hearing in Cork District Court that the woman had to engage a Polish solicitor and go to court in Poland so that she could bring her child back to Ireland.

In an effort to frustrate her search, the womans ex-partner had moved the child from his parents home in Poland and taken the child to a location some five hours drive away.

Now prosecuted in Cork he has pleaded guilty to abducting his son.

The 40-year-old was sent forward for sentence at the present sessions of Cork Circuit Criminal Court.

Evidence was given at a hearing in Cork District Court that the boys mother spent more than four months trying to get him back after the accused brought the child to Poland.

The accused cannot be named in order to protect the anonymity of the child.

ARREST

The charge stated that he was responsible for the removal of his son from the care of his mother without her consent.

He admitted he did at Dublin Airport on 28th August 2021 take a child under the age 16 out of the country in defiance of a court order without the consent of the parent to whom custody was granted by the court  an offence under the Non-Fatal Offences against the Person Act.

Det Garda Cormac OBric arrested the accused at Cork Airport on Sunday, April 16, after he stepped off a flight from Poland.

The only access the defendant had was for six hours each Sunday and two hours for each of two evenings during the week or additionally with the mothers consent.

It was only after a legal battle that the woman got her child back.

Defence solicitor Frank Buttimer said the man had come back to Cork voluntarily and notified gardai.

Mr Buttimer said the man accepted he had wrongly taken the child to Poland because of a belief that the child would get better treatment for a developmental disability in Poland.

Judge Olann Kelleher said he would grant bail on strict conditions including that the man reside at an address in Cork, sign on daily at the local garda station, provide gardai with a mobile phone no that they can contact him 24/7 and surrender all his travel documents and those of his child.

Judge Kelleher remanded the man on bail to appear at Cork Circuit Criminal Court for sentence on April 20.
A Health and Safety Authority (HSA) investigation is underway after two people, one of whom has been seriously injured, were hospitalised following a workplace incident at a Stryker facility in East Cork.

The incident, during which it is understood that one person suffered burns while working on equipment that was located on the roof, occurred at the companys Anngrove site in Carrigtwohill this afternoon.

Emergency services, including Cork County Fire Service, responded to a call at approximately 1.15pm.

A spokesperson for Stryker confirmed to The Echo that two people were transferred to hospital following the incident, and all others were safely evacuated from the facility.

The company spokesperson said the incident was managed by our emergency response team with support from local emergency services.

A man, who is aged in his early 40s, sustained serious injuries during the incident and was rushed to Cork University Hospital (CUH), gardai confirmed.

Gardai and emergency services were alerted following an accident at an industrial unit in Carrigtwohill, County Cork, a garda spokesperson told The Echo.

A man in his early 40s was removed from the scene by ambulance to Cork University Hospital. His injuries are understood to be serious.

Gardai also said the scene was preserved for examination. A statement issued by Cork County Fire Service read: Midleton Fire Brigade received a call to assist with a medical emergency in Stryker Anngrove IDA Business Park, Carrigtwohill at 13.09 today [Tuesday].

It was reported that one person had suffered burns while working on equipment which was located on the roof and that the fire was out.

"One fire appliance and an emergency tender responded from Midleton Fire Station.

A spokesperson for the Health and Safety Authority, responsible for the enforcement of workplace health and safety law and the implementation of a number of chemicals regulations, said it is aware of the incident and has launched [an] investigation into the incident.

A spokesperson for Stryker said: Were committed to a safe and healthy work environment at all of our facilities.

"Were working closely with the authorities to investigate the incident.

A medical equipment manufacturer, Stryker has over 4,100 employees across its six Cork-based sites. Its Anngrove site, officially opened in 2016, is one of the largest 3D printing facilities in the world, and is also the world headquarters of the AMagine Institute which develops breakthrough technologies from early research and development to support the full commercial launch and scaling across a broad portfolio of products and services.
WHAT a delight it was to have the newspapers plastered with a smiling 80-year-old man instead of the usual bad news headlines. Is there anyone more happy to be Irish than President Joe Biden?

Call it cheesy if you like, but it is human to be attached to somewhere and being Irish and loving Ireland is a big part of Bidens identity.

Whether you agree with his politics or not (his recent approval of a giant oil and gas project in Alaska is highly questionable from a climate point of view), he has been a dedicated public servant for decades who has overcome huge personal tragedies, and it was heart-warming to see him lap up the attention and admiration of a nation he loves so much.

As political commentators reported on his every move, Biden served up reminder after reminder that he might be, in fact, more Irish than any of us. Here are the top five traits that made him really seem like one of our own.

1. Hes a bad timekeeper

Its doubtful hed risk being two hours late to visit the German Reichstag, but Joe was in no rush to address the two houses of the Oireachtas. He was busy visiting friends in the Phoenix Park.

Irish politicians know a thing or two about turning up late to an event so they were very forgiving.

Maybe his full Irish breakfast caused him to dilly dally. Maybe the jetlag caught up with him.

In fairness, he keeps up a schedule that would punish a person half his age, but arriving late to something is a characteristic that many of us can identify with and we let him off.

His ability to go off script to tell extended anecdotes and asides was reminiscent of an unprepared priest at Mass.

Biden wasnt sticking to the suggested five minute speech at Dublin Castle and at times veered into what my grandmother would have called pure raimeis. But hey, hes the leader of the free world so whos going to stop him!

2. He loves babies

In Ireland, we love to coo over a baby. That is not a given in every country. A friend of mine had her first baby in Belgium where her apartment neighbours witnessed her burgeoning belly over nine months. When she bumped into the same neighbours with her brand new baby in tow, they didnt even acknowledge that she had recently ejected a small human. Back in Cork with the baby, everyone, from shopkeepers to strangers in car parks, stopped to admire and congratulate her.

Bidens magic moment with Margot, Senator Rebecca Moynihans eight-week-old daughter, was utterly charming because he seemed to be genuinely comfortable with her. Kudos to Margot for not spitting up on the suit.

Sadly, poor Margot is destined for a life tethered to this Biden encounter. When the President dies, news crews will vox pop her in school. When the next American president comes to visit, shell be rolled out to give her opinion if he (or she) is as nice as Biden. On the 50th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, shell be a member of a television audience who the presenter will interview about the happy occasion with an obligatory reminder of the archive footage.

Thankfully, last week, Margot was oblivious to all that lay ahead of her.

3. He happily identifies as Irish

Lots of people are proud to be Irish but a significant majority spend a lot of time giving out about the state of the country.

Ireland is far from perfect, but its nice to hear from someone on the other side of the Atlantic say what he likes about Ireland.

In fairness, its not hard to compare favourably to America, which seems a mess most of the time. Firearms are the leading cause of death for children in the US. Anywhere else is heaven.

Cynics argue that you have to have an Irish passport or be born here before you can be considered Irish, but looking through Bidens misty-eyed, rose-tinted glasses I was reminded of people around the world Ive met who are connected to Ireland in their heart not through geography.

People born and bred in Gort, Co. Galway, who now call Brazil home but are Irish in their core, despite their Brazilian heritage.

Or my aunts husband Dan Sheehy, from Brooklyn, New York. The son of Limerick parents and part of an extended tribe with tricolours and shamrocks in the crannies of their living room. In my youth. I was completely bemused at the brand of Irishness they subscribed to but I now recognise it as the completely legitimate human desire to feel connected.

4. Hes not a fan of Britain

Biden tries his best, but there is a distaste for Britain, and particularly the impact of colonial oppression on Ireland, that he struggles to contain.

His great great great great grandfather on his fathers side was from England but we havent seen Biden riff on this side of his heritage .

The mutual disappreciation works both ways. DUP politicians were unimpressed, saying his visit would not impact the political dynamics in Northern Ireland. British cartoonists trotted out Irish tropes depicting him as an Irish dancing, Guinness drinking leprechaun in a Times cartoon that was at best lazy and at worst racist.

I guess Biden knows where he is welcome.

5. He is a teetotaler

Guinness marketing execs despaired when they realised they wouldnt be getting the international exposure of the 46th President supping a pint of the black stuff.

Im disappointed that Tanora marketing execs didnt seize the opportunity to send their distinctly Irish soft drinks brand global.

A cheesy picture of Biden with an orange pint of fizz and a bag of Tayto would have been the most authentically Irish photo he could add to his family album.

Biden has forsworn alcohol after seeing the effects of alcoholism on his family and community growing up. His own son Hunter is a recovering alcoholic.

Ireland is filled with people who are teetotal for the same reasons, and it is yet another explanation perhaps why we get him.

So, whether you think the whole visit was an unnecessary circus, a Failte Ireland dream campaign or a genuine welcome for a returning son, Joe Biden represents a particular chapter of Irish history and we are unlikely to be visited again by another U.S president with such a deep gra for the auld sod.
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.

Chipotles new restaurant design has been implemented so far in Jacksonville, Florida, and Gloucester, Virginia. Chipotle Mexican Grill

What could be better than sitting outside, enjoying a burrito made with fresh ingredients on a spring day? A burrito served in biodegradable packaging, made by a restaurant powered exclusively by renewables that provides electric vehicle (EV) chargers to its customers  at least thats what Chipotle Mexican Grills new Responsible Restaurants model is counting on.

As part of its goal of reducing its greenhouse gas emissions in half by 2030 and achieving net zero by 2040, the fast-casual restaurant chain is trying out an all-electric restaurant powered by 100 percent solar and wind energy.

The new restaurant design pilot will help Chipotle progress toward its science-based targets, established in alignment with Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), to reduce direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions 50% by 2030 compared to a 2019 baseline, a press release from Chipotle said.

Chipotle offers Mexican food made without artificial flavors, colors or preservatives, with ingredients that are ethically sourced, reported Electrek.

As part of its commitment to sustainability, last year the company donated more than 282,000 pounds of leftover food to community groups as part of its Harvest Program. Chipotle also reduced its direct greenhouse gas emissions by 13 percent in 2022  even though it opened 200 new stores  and 40 percent of its electricity came from renewables.

The restaurant chain has also improved the sustainability of its packaging. In 2022, all of its napkins, bags, burrito bowls and trays for kids meals and quesadillas were made from biodegradable natural fibers.

Some of the features of the Mexican grills new model include heat pump water heaters, cactus leather seats, electric grills to replace their signature gas grills, artwork made from recycled rice husks, rooftop solar panels and EV charging stations at some locations.

With an aggressive development goal of eventually growing to 7,000 locations in North America, Chipotle will leverage its new restaurant openings to scale the companys overall impact. Chipotle plans to have more than 100 of its new locations in 2024 utilize all-electric equipment and at least some additional elements from its new design. The company will continue to innovate and iterate on the new design as it gains operational feedback and insights, the press release said.

In addition to the vegan and vegetarian options that are standard with Mexican cuisine, last year Chipotle began selling its plant-based chorizo in the U.S., made from an in-house recipe, Business Insider reported.

Restaurants incorporating the new design have already opened in Jacksonville, Florida, and Gloucester, Virginia. Another location is slated to open this summer in Castle Rock, Colorado.

In 2021, the company announced that it would begin basing 10 percent of its annual incentives for executives on meeting environmental and diversity goals.

In order to help meet its direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions goal, other initiatives are in the works for the company, including the standardization of energy management systems for heating, cooling and refrigeration; investments in emissions-reductions projects for beef and dairy production; investing in strategies to support a wider adoption of regenerative agriculture methods by its supply chain partners; increasing the purchase of local produce with a minimum goal of 36.4 million pounds this year; and the development of more vegan and vegetarian options for its menu.

Chipotle currently owns and operates 3,200 restaurants in the U.S., CNN reported.

With our aggressive development goal in North America, we hold ourselves accountable to reduce the environmental impact of our restaurants, said Laurie Schalow, chief corporate affairs officer at Chipotle, in the press release. We are aiming to incorporate some elements of our responsible restaurant design into many of our new restaurant openings going forward.
Youth Day 2023

As part of their 60th anniversary, the Gibraltar Youth Service held a very successful Gibraltar Youth Day last week attracting many young people to the varied program of events on offer.

The event organised by the Dolphins youth club teenage members was officially opened by the Minister for Youth, the Hon. Steven Linares.

The Gibraltar Youth Service would like to thank GBC, Gibraltar Cultural Services, the Youth Service Staff and all the individuals and organisations for their support and participation:

- Childline Gibraltar

- The Scout Association Gibraltar

- Girlguiding Gibraltar

- The Nautilus Project

- Care Agency Family Centre

- Gibraltar LGBTQ+ Committee

- Citizens Advice Bureau

- Clubhouse Gibraltar

- GHITA

- No. 2 Overseas (Gibraltar) Sqn, Air Training Corps

- Muslim Youth Group

- The Mindspace Project

- CYE-CLE

- GibSams

- Gibraltar Cosplay

- Sean Rodriguez & Samantha Gingell

Overall, the event proved to be a great exposition of what working with young people is about and what is on offer for them.
Rep. C. Denise Marcelle, D-Baton Rouge, filed House Bill 422 to shrink the state fine attached to outstanding payments referred to the state Office of Debt Recovery from 25% to 15%. (Canva image)

A Louisiana House committee that handles tax and fines policy rejected a proposal Thursday to lower state fines primarily paid when a persons auto insurance has lapsed. The vote on a watered-down version of the original proposal was 9-7, with most Republicans on the committee opposing it.

Rep. C. Denise Marcelle, D-Baton Rouge, filed House Bill 422 to shrink the state fine attached to outstanding payments referred to the state Office of Debt Recovery from 25% to 15%. The fine can often run into the hundreds of dollars and is added to the debt and late fees people already owe state and local governments.

Theres many citizens of this state that cannot pay a fee on top of a fee, Marcelle said. Twenty-five percent is really too much to be charging people as a late fee.

Louisiana Department of Revenue Secretary Kevin Richard said 128 state agencies and local governments use the Office of Debt Recovery to track down people who owe them money.

About two-thirds of those debt recovery referrals come from the Office of Motor Vehicles and relate to penalties assessed for gaps in vehicle insurance, Richard said. The agency also handles debt recovery for items such as parking tickets and missed parole payments.

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The 25% fine is used to cover the cost of running the debt recovery office, and Richard said he could work with a smaller budget, one relying on a 15% penalty instead.

At Thursdays meeting, House Ways and Means Committee chairman Stuart Bishop, R-Lafayette, was responsible for scuttling Marcelles proposal.

He said the state revenue department might need the extra money earned from the 25% fee, especially because Gov. John Bel Edwards is seeking a minimum wage hike for all state government employees and other public employee pay increases.

Bishop effectively killed Marcelles legislation by forcing other Republican lawmakers to vote on the proposal. Up until that point, the GOP legislators appeared willing to keep Marcelles bill alive by letting it pass out of committee without a vote. Once Bishop forced them to go on the record with a position, most of the committee Republicans decided to vote against the legislation.

Democrats initially tried to keep the legislation alive by limiting its scope. They attached an amendment to the legislation that applied the lower 15% fine only to debt from the Office of Motor Vehicles, but the change didnt satisfy Bishop or other Republicans.

Bishop said the Edwards administration could use its regulation-making power to lower the fee from 25% to 15% without lawmakers taking action. The current law also allows the Department of Revenue to implement the smaller, 15% fee on its own.

But Marcelle pushed the law change because she doesnt believe a 25% fine will ever be appropriate. While Edwards may agree to lower the fine now, another governor could raise it again. The only way to prevent that from happening is to put a lower rate in state law, she said.

Republican objections to Marcelles proposal were unexpected, given the Louisiana House voted unanimously for a similar proposal last year. That bill, also sponsored by Marcelle, failed to become law after stalling in the Senate committee.

The Office of Debt Recovery is only 10 years old. Former Gov. Bobby Jindal and lawmakers created it while looking for ways to bring more money into the state without raising taxes. At the time, having a staff devoted to tracking down people to repay their debt was pitched as a way to generate more funding for the state. SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST. DONATE

The post Louisiana Republicans vote down bill to lower fines on personal debt collection appeared first on Louisiana Illuminator.
Residents on edge after 'Sweet 16' shooting in Alabama

Five people remained in critical condition after a shooting at a teenage birthday party in rural Alabama over the weekend left four dead.
Two arrested for running Chinese 'secret police station' in NY

US law enforcement officials arrested two New York residents for allegedly operating a Chinese 'secret police station' in Manhattan's Chinatown neighborhood.
Tuesday, April 18, 2023

In January, I had an incident at the Harrahs Cherokee casino that I wrote about. I started my trip by taking a $20,000 marker, consisting of eight $2,500 TITO tickets and began to play $5 Deuces Wild. When I hit four deuces, I got two more of the same size . When I hit royals, I collected eight more.

It was a very successful trip and at the end, I had far more than eight of these tickets. I had signed for every one of them. At the end of the trip when I cashed out, the cage said one of the $2,500 tickets had been cancelled. They werent going to pay it until they figured it out.

Eventually, it got straightened out and I got paid. It took a bit longer than I would have preferred, but alls well that ends well.

In April, I returned to Cherokee. I started my trip as I did before  taking out a $20,000 marker asking for $2,500 tickets. It took a bit longer than usual  the one ticket-making machine was being used to create tickets for somebody else  but eventually I was summoned to the window and my tickets were ready.

When you get these tickets at Cherokee, you need to sign for them. The ticket number of each ticket is recorded, and to the right of the ticket numbers, its typical to draw a slanted line and sign on the top of that line. This means youre signing for all of them.

I was presented the sheet to sign and I noticed there were ten entries. It doesnt take a math major to realize that ten tickets of $2,500 add up to $25,000 rather than $20,000. I looked at it closely. Had the tickets been made for $2,000 each instead, the amount of money represented by the tickets would have been $20,000. This was not what I had requested exactly, but certainly acceptable.

But no. The tickets were each for $2,500 and there were ten of them. I know this is a mistake, but I take a few seconds to ponder my next move. I was pretty sure I was going to refuse to take the extra two tickets, but I wanted to consider my options. Had I signed and taken the tickets as presented, I would have gotten a $5,000 unintended bonanza. But one that was well documented. Should the audit department be paying attention at all, in a day or two I might well get a tap on the shoulder and be asked for the return of $5,000.

I could feign ignorance, of course. After all, a lot of people sign things without doing all the calculations. I could easily say, I didnt really count things. I assumed it was correct. They couldnt prove I was lying  but I didnt want to be under suspicion of taking a shot.

My philosophy on keeping an unexpected windfall goes something like this: If I get a windfall that cant be traced back to me, keep it. If it can be traced back to me, give it back. If one individual cashier or other employee will have to make up the shortfall, dont take the windfall. Probably somebody working for wages needs the money more than I do. Another factor is the last time there was a dispute over tickets at this casino, it ended up going my way. I know things cant always go my way.

So, I spoke up. The cashier took the tickets back and went away. He returned shortly with eight $2,500 tickets and a new form for me to sign.

I dont know how he went from 10 tickets down to eight. If he just cancelled two of them, I couldnt be positive that the two he cancelled had the same numbers as the two that were no longer on the list I signed.

So I decided that if I hit jackpots before I went through this $20,000, I would get tickets in sizes other than $2,500 so I could make sure I used up the original ones I received. If I got a royal, Id ask for ten $2,000 tickets. If I get four deuces, Id ask for four $1,250 tickets. This will make it easier to identify the original tickets and make sure I didnt try to sell them back.

This ended up being a losing trip, but at the end of the day Im happy with the way I handled things.
After rolling out a debit card last fall, H-E-B and its Central Market chain are debuting credit cards.

Customers can get 5 percent cash back when they use H-E-B and Central Market Visa Signature credit cards at H-E-B, Central Market, Joe Vs Smart Shop and Mi Tienda stores to buy products under various company brands, including H-E-B, Central Market, Hill Country Fare, Field & Future by H-E-B, H-E-B Brand Shop, Home by H-E-B, Kodi, Cocinaware, H-E-B Kitchen & Table and others.

Orders placed with Favor Delivery, which H-E-B acquired in 2018, are also eligible for that reward.

Customers can get 1.5 percent cash back on all other products wherever Visa is accepted, including H-E-B Fuel gas and fare from its True Texas BBQ and South Flo Pizza chains. The credit cards do not have an annual fee.

In September, H-E-B announced it was rolling out a debit card with the same cash-back reward for company-brand items bought at its stores.

On ExpressNews.com: H-E-B rolls out debit card with cash back on purchases of San Antonio retailers branded products

Customers who set up an optional savings account can earn up to a 6 percent annual percentage yield on balances up to $2,000. If their balance is above that amount, the annual percentage yield for that portion is tiered, ranging from 0.6 to 6 percent.

The debit card and account are set up through Pathward NA, and customers can add funds via another debit card, a bank, at H-E-B stores or direct deposit. They can get paid from paychecks, tax returns and government programs up to two days fast, according to H-E-B.

People can apply for the cards by visiting heb.com/credit and hebdebit.com.

H-E-B is not the only grocery company with such options.

Customers using Walmarts credit card can get 5 percent cash back on items bought through the companys website; 2 percent on items bought at Walmart stores, gas stations, restaurants and while traveling; and 1 percent on items bought anywhere else Mastercard is accepted.

Targets credit and debit cards also offer 5 percent back on items bought at its stores and through its website. Shoppers using Krogers card get 2 percent cash back on the companys brands in the form of a payment benefit, which is applied to their next purchases, and can also earn fuel points for gas purchases.
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The criminal trial of Hector Barreto, a former Small Business Administration head who's accused of treating two nonprofits he once led like a "piggy bank," got underway in San Antonio on Tuesday.

Barreto is charged with misappropriating hundreds of thousands of dollars in contributions to the organizations.

Most of the money had been donated by Dr. George Rapier III, founder, chairman and CEO of San Antonios WellMed Medical Management Inc.  personally and through his charitable entities.

Barreto, who headed the SBA for five years during President George W. Bushs administration, is charged with six counts of conspiracy, including to commit money laundering and wire fraud. Each of those counts carry a maximum prison sentence of 20 years if convicted.

During opening statements in federal court Tuesday, Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Blackwell told jurors that Barreto and a co-defendant used the money for vacations, expensive meals and their personal business.

What will be very clear is that money that was intended to help people, that was intended for charity, wasnt used for that purpose, Blackwell said. It was used as a piggy bank by the defendant and his partner.

Manny Medrano, a defense lawyer for Barreto, disputed the governments characterization of his client being a thief under the cover of darkness.

Barreto earned every penny he received as compensation, and he was paid that money  because he busted his tail carrying out the order and demand of billionaire George Rapier, Medrano said in his opening statement.

Rapier wanted Barreto to perform political advocacy by opposing the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, Medrano said. Rapier viewed Obamacare as a threat to WellMeds business, which operates clinics that provide health care to senior citizens on Medicare, but he wanted his opposition cloaked in secrecy, Medrano said.

Rapier did that, Medrano said, through the use of dark money  which are funds from undisclosed donors to nonprofit organizations that spend lavishly on efforts to sway public opinion and elect their favorite candidates.

George Rapier is all about dark money, the lawyer said. He wanted to donate money to nonprofits, but he wants to be under the radar. He wants anonymity.

According to a second indictment filed in May, prosecutors allege Barreto received roughly a combined $380,000 that had been donated to the Latino Coalition Foundation and the Hispanic Business Roundtable Institute from 2014 to 2019. The foundation supports issues that improve the business environment for Latinos, while the institute supports the promotion and advancement of the Hispanic community.

Some of the allegedly misappropriated money was donated by a Wells Fargo Bank foundation, which gave $250,000 to the Latino Coalition Foundation.

MORE ON BARRETO CASE: Political intrigue in San Antonio criminal case against ex-WellMed consultant and former SBA boss

Barretos co-defendant, Miguel Gutierrez, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and filing a false tax return rather than stand trial with Barreto. Medrano described Gutierrez, who is expected to testify, as a crook and a thief.

Gutierrez was a consultant to WellMed. His sentencing has been reset four times and is now scheduled for Aug. 2.

Rapier donated through his charitable entities about $1.5 million to the Latino Coalition Foundation for educational programs and for youth, Blackwell said. The doctor also personally donated $1.6 million to the Hispanic Business Roundtable Institute for political advocacy and education, Blackwell added.

Prosecutors are expected to call Rapier as a witness during the trial before U.S. District Judge Jason Pulliam. The trial is expected to last about three weeks.

Money was diverted to Barreto and Gutierrez either directly or via payments funneled through two individuals identified as cooperating witnesses, Blackwell said. They are San Antonio lawyer Brent de la Paz and Las Vegas political consultant Grant Hewitt.

The payments to Barreto and Gutierrez were often supported by false and misleading invoices, Blackwell said.

The alleged scheme defrauded the donors, as well as the two nonprofits, he said.

Gutierrez had been charged with 10 counts  the same six as Barreto and four others related to filing a false tax return from 2015 to 2018. Before he pleaded guilty, Gutierrez accused Rapier of using the nonprofit organizations to conceal his political spending, which is not illegal. He also alleged Rapier intended to take federal tax deductions for his political advocacy, which is not allowed under the tax code.

Medrano picked up on that during his opening statement.

Dr. Rapier is not an angel, he said. We believe the evidence is going to establish that George Rapier took tax deductions on his donations illegally.

Barreto no longer is affiliated with the foundation or the institute. He served as the SBA's director from 2001 to 2006.

Barreto had sought to have the indictment dismissed based on allegations of conflicts of interest among federal investigators in the case, but the judge denied the request.

No decision has been made on whether Barreto will testify in his own defense, Medrano said outside court.

The first witness called to testify by prosecutors was Carol Frakes, an IRS special agent, who described the movement of donated money from the nonprofits to Barreto, Gutierrez and others.
Richard Vogel/AP

DALLAS  Southwest Airlines planes were stopped from taking off nationwide for what the airline called an intermittent technology issue, causing more than 1,500 flight delays Tuesday just four months after the carrier suffered a meltdown over the Christmas travel rush.

Shortly after 10 a.m., the Federal Aviation Administration announced the Southwest Airlines pause was lifted and service resumed. Operations were paused for about an hour in total, according to Southwest Airlines.
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After looming over the Denver Heights neighborhood for years, the hodgepodge of vacant, dilapidated buildings that make up the Friedrich complex are coming down to make way for apartments.

The long-awaited overhaul of the property has been characterized by some as a catalyst for economic activity, injecting more residents and drawing more businesses to the corridor. Others have raised concerns that the housing would not be affordable to many nearby residents.

Crews have begun razing the structures along North Pine Street and will temporarily close streets as they work their way around the roughly 5-acre site, taking the structures apart piece by piece, project manager Joshua Stevens of Lloyd D. Nabors Demolition told residents at a meeting Monday evening.

DISSECTING THE BOOM: East Side San Antonio home price increases top those seen across county

The complex at 1617 E. Commerce St. will be replaced with 358 apartments and a parking garage, a $92.9 million project spearheaded by Dallas-based Provident Realty Advisors that has been in the works since at least 2018. A historic building along Commerce Street with a Friedrich Refrigerators sign is not part of the development  nor owned by Provident  and will not be demolished.

Were just overjoyed to finally be at a place where we can start this process, development director Basil Koutsogeorgas said.

The property is next to IDEA Carver, and Stevens said he is coordinating with officials at the public charter school to minimize traffic disruptions and ensure crews are not working while students standardized testing is underway.

Provident Realty hired air monitoring and environmental consultants to oversee the removal of hazardous materials such as asbestos before the demolition began, and air monitoring pumps have been installed near IDEA Carver.

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has given Provident Realty the green light to demolish vertical parts of buildings, and some soil testing has been conducted. When thats finished, more testing will need to be done and Provident Realty will need additional approval from the TCEQ to tear out underlying slabs, Koutsogeorgas said.

The development, called Friedrich Lofts, will likely be completed in about three years, he said.

Provident Realty is partnering with the San Antonio Housing Trust Public Facility Corp., a nonprofit that provides a property tax exemption in exchange for including apartments leased at below-market rates.

Half the apartments at Friedrich Lofts will be rented at market rates, meaning whatever price the market can fetch. Another 155 will be reserved for residents making up to 80 percent of the area median income, and 24 will be reserved for those making up to 60 percent of the area median income, which is $66,300 and $49,740 annually for a family of four, respectively, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

During housing trust meetings in 2021, City Council members clashed over Friedrich Lofts affordability and location, while residents said they were worried about rents.

READ MORE: City kicks in another $8.5 million for expansion of East Side San Antonio life sciences hub

District 9 Councilman John Courage initially supported delaying a vote paving the way for the Friedrich complexs demolition in part because he said the apartments would not be affordable to many neighbors. Later, when he gave the go-ahead to a proposed project in his North Side district, then-Councilwoman Shirley Gonzales said she was angry that a council member will fight for not as much affordability in one area but then demand it in another and that every council district deserves to have quality spaces.

You get on the dais and you think you know what other people need, and it makes me furious, Gonzales said. I cant come up with anything else  that its just flat-out racism that you can have some things and we cant.

About 20 San Antonio residents criticized Friedrich Lofts in part for not including more lower-priced units and for hastening gentrification.

Home prices and rents in Denver Heights and other East Side neighborhoods are soaring as people wanting to live near downtown and Pearl move in and historic houses undergo renovations. Property values and tax bills are rising, straining some families' wallets. The median home price in Denver Heights rose 600 percent to $210,000 from 2011 to 2021, according to the San Antonio Board of Realtors.

The housing trust board, including Courage, later approved Provident Realtys plans after members said the project could be shelved if financing fell through because of their denial or postponement.

The original Friedrich building was built in the 1920s, and additions were made in the 1950s to the facility, which produced air conditioning units and refrigeration, Express-News archives indicate. Nearby residents recalling hearing a whistle go off in the morning and evening, signaling the beginning and end of the workday for employees.

It closed in 1990 after much of the work was shifted to another location and has remained empty since then, as previous attempts to redevelop it failed.
Fort Polk, LA (71446)

Today

Partly cloudy skies. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 82F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy skies early with thunderstorms developing late. A few storms may be severe. Low 61F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%.
Mission DG is partnering with the San Marcos Housing Authority to develop 216 apartments for families at a range of income levels, the first affordable housing project of its kind in San Marcos in more than 50 years.

The Lantana Apartments at Rattler Road and South Old Bastrop Highway will include one-, two- and three-bedroom units for households earning 30 to 70 percent of the area median income, with rents of $553 to $1,905 per month depending on income level and apartment size, according to San Antonio-based Mission DG.

You cant ignore the need for affordable housing that is endemic from Austin through San Marcos into San Antonio, Mission DG partner Mark Tolley said.

The complex is across from San Marcos High School, near Bowie Elementary School and a short drive from the San Marcos Premium Outlets, the Tanger Outlets and an Amazon fulfillment center in fast-growing Hays County, where housing costs are rising. Tolley said he hopes The Lantana will attract workers from those employers.

This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate 2 1 of 2 Courtesy of Mission DG and B&A Architects Show More Show Less 2 of 2 Courtesy of Mission DG and B&A Architects Show More Show Less



About 35 percent of the apartments are slated to have three bedrooms, a percentage Mission DG increased to offer more units for families, he said.

On ExpressNews.com: Bye-bye, bedroom community: Booming Hays Countys pricey housing market leaving the middle class behind

Amenities at The Lantana include in-unit washers and dryers, covered parking, and a pool, clubhouse, lounge, fitness center, pickleball court, playground, business center, grilling area and dog park. Community Housing Resource Partners, a nonprofit, will provide support services to help residents access childrens programs, GED and English as a second language programs, computer and financial literacy courses, and career, health care and food assistance.

Mission DG is using federal low-income housing tax credits and income averaging, with a mean of 60 percent of the area median income.

The median income in the Austin-Round Rock metropolitan area, which includes San Marcos, is $110,300 for a family of four, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. For a household of that size, 60 percent of the area median income is $66,180.

The companys partnership with the housing authority involves its public facilities corporation, a nonprofit. Under state law, public facility corporations provide a full property tax exemption for developers who reserve at least half the units at their projects for families earning up to 80 percent of the area median income.

On ExpressNews.com: Greater San Marcos Partnership boss pushing for job growth to match population rise

The Lantana is the first new affordable income-based rental housing project in San Marcos in over 50 years, housing authority Executive Director Lana Wagner said in a statement.

Cities such as San Marcos, Kyle and Buda along the Interstate 35 corridor in Hays County are growing as people move there for jobs or proximity to employment in Austin and San Antonio. Amazon, Tesla and Samsung have launched or are planning to expand operations in the area, more industrial space is being developed, and Texas State Universitys enrollment is increasing.

Demand for housing is outpacing supply as costs are surging, making it more difficult for families with modest means to afford to live there.

The median sales price of a home in Hays County soared from $161,722 in 2011 to $440,000 in 2022, according to the Texas Real Estate Research Center at Texas A&M University. In San Marcos, it jumped from $140,000 to $358,705 during the same period. The median rent in San Marcos is $1,225 a month for a one-bedroom and $1,385 a month for a two-bedroom, according to home search website Apartment List.

On ExpressNews.com: Former San Antonio mayor involved in court battle over Northwest Side low-income senior housing

This corridor between Austin and San Antonio is one of the quickest-growing areas in the country, said Robert Johnson, an analyst at HUDs local field office. While that growth brings a lot of benefits to these communities, it also brings a lot of challenges, particularly with affordable housing.

Mission DG  where Henry Cisneros, former mayor of San Antonio and HUD secretary, is a partner  is working on several other mixed-income apartments.

It has another project planned in San Marcos, along with others in Austin, outside Texas A&M University-San Antonio and at East Southcross Boulevard and Roosevelt Avenue in San Antonio. It is using low-income housing tax credits and partnering with nonprofits such as BiGAUSTIN and public facility corporations such as the Bexar County Public Facility Corp.

Were doing a tremendous amount of work up and down the corridor, Tolley said.
Texas attorney Matthew Kacsmaryk appeared before the Senate Judiciary Committee in 2017 as a nominee to the federal bench by then-President Donald Trump.

In front of that intimidating microphone, he answered questions with resolve and without hesitation.

When asked if federal judges should apply their religious beliefs to issues before them, Kacsmaryk categorically said they could not. He called it inappropriate.

When asked if a judge should rule with independence and neutrality, he said yes.

In a Senate questionnaire, he also said, I cannot think of any cases or category of cases requiring recusal on grounds of conscience. If I am confirmed, I will fully and faithfully apply the law of recusal.

It appears Kacsmaryk lied under oath. He said he could rule on any issue without imposing his religious beliefs on them. His rulings suggest the opposite.

In a ruling as momentous as the Supreme Courts overturning of Roe vs. Wade, Kacsmaryk overturned FDA approval of the drug Mifepristone. It has been in use for two decades and is used in more than half of all legal abortions in the country.

Mifepristone is prescribed for use in medication abortions, rather than surgical ones, Its been used by women who want a say over their bodies, to determine what happens to them, their lives and that of their families.

More from Elaine Ayala: Clarence Thomas might benefit from learning an old Mexican proverb

It has been used by couples to determine the extent of their families and to provide for them and their future.

Getting an abortion is a deeply personal decision that should involve only those who are pregnant and their personal physicians.

Its a position most people apply to all other personal and family matters. But religious extremists  not just Christian  have tried to impose their beliefs against abortion, same-sex marriage and transgender rights.

They cant stay out of Americas bedrooms.

Its fundamentally important for men, too, given that at some point, an extremist court could impose restrictions on male body parts.

Yet Kacsmaryk, the powerful, lone judge in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas in

Amarillo, leaned into his devout faith and staunch anti-abortion activism to overturn use of a safe medication long in use.

According to several reports, Kacsmaryk used language in his ruling often used by anti-abortion extremists, referring to a fetus as an unborn human, saying the drug halts nutrition and starves the fetus to death.

During coverage of his ruling, a parenting blog entry surfaced in which Kacsmaryks wife shared a picture of one of their toddlers wearing a shirt saying, I Survived Roe v. Wade. She said her husband loved the message tee.

The most unusual report revealed that for Christmas, the Kacsmaryks hang six stockings, each accompanied by a childs photo. The last depicts the couples stillborn child.

That event reportedly prompted Kacsmaryk to serve on the board of Christian Homes and Family Services, where his sister gave birth to a child that was given up for adoption.

Hes very passionate about the fact that you cant preach pro-life and do nothing, his sister Jennifer Griffith told the Washington Post. We both hold the stance of you have to do something. You cant not.

More from Elaine Ayala: San Antonios Henry Munoz, 'a very smart guy,' again snared in controversy

Griffith said her brothers goal was to end abortion.

The judge hasnt met the most basic definition of impartiality.

There were other red flags.

Kacsmaryk served as deputy general counsel for the right-wing First Liberty Institute, a legal group that famously argued against anti-discrimination laws in defending Christian bakery owners who wouldnt bake a cake for a same-sex wedding.

His rulings have struck down protections for transgender people.

In 2017, while being vetted by the Senate, Kacsmaryk reportedly requested that his name be removed from a law review article that criticized abortion seekers and transgender protections.

Titled The Jurisprudence of the Body, the article defended doctors who cannot use their scalpels to make female what God created male or prescribe or dispense abortifacient drugs designed to kill unborn children.

Its what the far-right most wants from a judge: extremist views, extremist rulings.

Its what we people of all faiths with wide-ranging beliefs and ideologies, different socioeconomic statuses, varying educational levels and voting histories  got from a judge who ruled not as an impartial professional, but one guided by his far-right Christian values.

U.S. Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito placed a five-day hold on Kacsmaryks Mifepristone ruling. Thats up Wednesday.

eayala@express-news.net
In recent years, New Braunfels hasnt allowed residents to build or fill new swimming pools during stage 3 drought restrictions.

City leaders are looking to change that.

The New Braunfels City Council has given its initial OK to easing the city's drought restrictions and allowing new swimming pools to be filled from the city's water supplies, even while stage 3 restrictions are in place. City Council members are scheduled to vote Monday on final approval for the measure.

If approved, the vote would amend the city's drought management plan and end a requirement that residents fill new pools by trucking in water from areas that are not under drought restrictions.

The vote comes after nearly a year of discussions between the city, builders and pool installers who were concerned about the economic impact of the pool ordinance.

A report from city staffers recommended easing the rules, saying that prohibiting the installation of pools is only a temporary water-saving measure and that properly maintained pools actually use less water than a section of lawn of the same size.

City staffers also cited that the drought management plan was implemented when New Braunfels Utilities had less diversification of its water sources. In addition to the Edwards Aquifer, the city utility now pumps water from the Guadalupe River and purchases water from the city of Seguin.

More on drought: With Edwards Aquifer low and waterways drying up, more restrictions could be coming

New Braunfels follows drought restrictions implemented by the Edwards Aquifer Authority. In a normal year, New Braunfels Utilities is allowed to pull a total of 9,269 acre-feet per year from the Edwards Aquifer. Due to current drought restrictions, however, the utility can only pull just over 6,000 acre-feet annually. The city has used about 558 acre-feet this year. An acre-foot is the amount of water needed to cover an acre of land to a depth of 1 foot, which equates to about 326,000 gallons of water.

When stage 3 watering restrictions began last July, city staffers saw "great concern from pool installers," according to a presentation made to the City Council. New Braunfels Utilities officials and other city staffers met with people in the industry and agreed to a concession that would allow pool installers to apply for a variance to allow pools to be built if they agreed not to fill them until the drought restrictions are eased.

In the nine months since the Stage 3 restrictions went into place, city has received 91 pool variance requests from residents and companies. The estimated total water use for those pools over the nine months would be 2.24 million gallons of water, or over 6 acre-feet, according to the city. During the same time period, the city received 1,059 lawn-watering variance requests, which would equate to using 20 million gallons of water, according to the city.

Alex Guidry Rodriguez, whose family operates Backyard Vacation Oasis in New Braunfels, told City Council members that the business has felt the impact of the pool drought ordinance. She said the current rules requiring residents to bring in water from areas that are not under drought restrictions "have been a hindrance to our business" because of the expense involved for homeowners. "Homeowners don't even want to start the process" of building a pool due to the drought restrictions, she said.

Nearby San Marcos, which is under stage 2 watering restrictions, allows residents to fill new swimming pools using city water. San Antonio, which is also under stage 2 drought restrictions, also allows swimming pools to be filled. Those rules could change if either city went into stricter drought restrictions.
Property crimes in San Antonio are slightly up in the first three months of the year compared to 2022, fueled by car theft challenges that have gone viral on social media.

Still, overall crime is down about 2 percent, with a noticeable drop in violent offenses.

Vehicle thefts are up by nearly 60 percent, with the San Antonio Police Department reporting 4,292 such offenses from January through March, compared to the 2,697 in the first quarter of 2022.

That contributed to the 3.4 percent increase in overall property crimes, which account for the majority  71 percent  of all crimes reported to SAPD. Simple theft, such as shoplifting, is the most common type of property crime, followed by vehicle theft.

Its not a phenomenon thats just present in San Antonio, police Chief William McManus said, noting that people steal cars to commit other crimes.

Though the chief said he couldnt speculate about the reasons behind the steep increase seen locally and nationwide, he said theft challenges on TikTok and other social media platforms have definitely contributed.

KAYLEE GREENLEE BEAL 2022

Those challenges have targeted select Kias and Hyundais that lack engine immobilizers, making it possible to start them without a key. Unsurprisingly, cars from the two brands account for seven of the 10 most commonly stolen vehicles in San Antonio in March, with the Hyundai Elantra topping the list.

READ MORE: What you need to know about the TikTok trend leading to more car thefts

McManus didnt have much advice for residents hoping to avoid becoming targets.

With todays technology, pretty much anything that you try to do can eventually be defeated, he said, though he recommends parking in your personal driveway or garage when possible rather than leaving your car on the street, even if directly in front of your house.

The chiefs presentation of the first quarter crime statistics comes as property crimes are at top of mind for San Antonians this election season.

Proposition A, a contentious measure on the May 6 municipal election ballot, would require police to issue citations for a number of low-level offenses, including theft and graffiti, in lieu of being able to make an arrest. Its an expansion of SAPDs existing cite-and-release policy, in place since 2019.

Opponents have cast Prop A as something that would dramatically increase crime. Supporters say its a way to help residents avoid an arrest record and redirect them to diversion programs that, in turn, reduce the chance that someone will re-offend.

City Council members are also grappling with whether and how much to increase SAPDs staffing levels as they hash out the new city budget, which theyll adopt in September.

McManus told the councils public safety committee Tuesday that increasing the number of officers assigned to the departments 18-member vehicle theft unit would help SAPD investigate and recover stolen vehicles.

The department is already seeking an additional 100 patrol officers.

Violent crime, which SAPD refers to as crimes against persons, made up 21 percent of all crimes reported from January to March, with crimes against society  such as animal cruelty, drug offenses and weapons law violations  rounding out the remaining 8 percent.

Violent crime is down almost 16 percent compared to the same time last year, which McManus attributed to a drop in assaults. SAPD recorded 8,331 assaults from January to March, a decrease of 1,321 from 2022.

Homicides were up slightly at 47  an increase of three.

SAPD launched a new initiative in January, in conjunction with the University of Texas at San Antonio, to target violent crime through a hot spot policing plan that has increased officers presence in 28 hot spots, or high crime areas in undisclosed parts of the city. Officers spend up to 15 minutes in their vehicles before moving to another area, a tactic intended to deter crime.

READ MORE: After Memphis beating death, San Antonio councilwoman voices concern about hot spot policing

McManus said he had no empirical data thus far to connect the drop in violent crime to the initiative.

My preliminary knowledge of the hot spot program is that weve got good news for the first 60 days, McManus said, but beyond that, I havent gotten the report, and I cant give you any particulars.
Hey, Kyle, have you always wanted to break a world record by standing in a city named Kyle with other Kyles? Of course you have.

You most definitely will get that chance over Labor Day weekend when the Hays County city again shoot for the Guinness World Record for gathering the most people with the same name.

The city, about an hour northeast of San Antonio, is looking for tall Kyles, short Kyles, young Kyles, and old Kyles to break the record at 4 p.m. Sunday, May 21, during the Kyle Fair A Tex-Travaganza at Lake Kyle Park.

You might also like: Two city employees file lawsuit saying they were repeatedly abused, bullied by supervisors

On May 21, all eligible Kyles are asked to sign in at the VIP tent beforehand. A group photo will follow. To qualify, you need to spell your name with a Y. Sorry to anyone who spells it Kile, Kille or Kyl. This isnt your time to shine.

There is no cost to participate, and entry to the Kyle Fair is free. The festival includes live music performances, carnival rides, concessions and other amusements.

The city of Kyle is named after Fergus Kyle, who helped donate more than 200 acres of land for the townsite when the International and Great Northern Railroad built a line from Austin to San Antonio.

This will be Kyles fourth attempt at breaking the record. The city previously attempted to set the world record in 2017. However, it was bested by the 2,325 Ivans who gathered that year in Kupres, a town in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Kyle nixed an attempt in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It's sure to set the record this year, though, if it can match the number of Kyle mentions in this story.

timothy.fanning@express-news.net
The city of San Antonio will tear down a Southwest Side warehouse that it said had become a revolving door of criminal activity.

The 7-acre property at 5000 W. Military Drive consists of a warehouse and four mobile homes the city deemed dangerous. It had been a longtime headache for San Antonio law enforcement.

The San Antonio Police Department saw nearly 30 cases originate there over the last two years, including those involving assaults, shots fired, drug overdoses and stolen vehicles. Texas Child Protective Services had been called to the property.

You might also like: An 'unsafe' S.A. home is set to be demolished. Its owner, who has mental illness, could be homeless.

Owner Rosie Garcia and her son, Henry Garcia Jr., testified that they did not bear responsibility for the alleged criminal activity on the property, once home to Knockout Automotive Repair.

Rosie Garcia said undesirables coming in and out of the property were responsible for the stolen vehicles and other materials.

Its certainly not me at all, she said.

On April 13, the Building Standards Board, a quasi-judicial panel that hears repair and demolition cases on behalf of the city, voted unanimously to have all the structures on the property demolished.

The vote was a step above what was requested by code enforcement, which asked that the city knock down only the mobile homes. People had been living inside the mobile homes, something that wasn't allowed under the property's current zoning. The board voted to demolish the warehouse on the property because of its known association with illegal activity.

Eric Burns, an assistant attorney for the city of San Antonio, explained that not demolishing the warehouse would continue the status quo of that property continuing to receive stolen materials.

Related: Her West Side home was powered by car batteries. She pleaded with the city not to raze it.

The owner's family had given people permission to live in the mobile homes on the property, the city said.

These units were fed power by extension cords running from the warehouse. There was no running water or sewer service, although code enforcement officials said someone was attempting unpermitted plumbing work to the mobile homes.

Each of the windows on the four mobile homes was boarded up, and the only natural light that came in was from cracks that separated the floor from the wall, the city said.

Henry Garcia Jr., whose late father owned the property, explained that after Henry Garcia Sr. died, it became overwhelming to maintain 5000 W. Military Drive and other properties his father owned.

He told the board he wanted to kick out the people and get rid of the mobile homes himself; he just needed more time.

I extend my apologies to law enforcement, code division and to the board for it getting to this point, Henry Garcia Jr. said.

He explained that he had no idea that the mobile homes  structures that had been on the property for at least a decade  were illegal.

However, city code enforcement testified that Garcia was told about the illegal activity and mobile homes as recent as September 2022. Since noting it, the conditions on the property have worsened.

Building Standards Board Member Evelyn Brown was skeptical about how much the Garcia family knew and when.

Im sorry. I dont trust what youre saying, Brown said. Youre saying one thing and another and thats kind of hard to believe.

timothy.fanning@express-news.net
Mary Beatrice Perez wore a white Mickey Mouse T-shirt when she disappeared from a Fiesta event 30 years ago. The shirt was the only thing by which the girls grandmother could identify her body a week later when the child was found dead on the banks of Alazan Creek on the West Side.

The 9-year-old, affectionately known as Mary Bea, was at Market Square celebrating San Antonios biggest event with her family on April 18, 1999. But about 10 p.m., when her grandmother turned around to see her, Mary Bea had vanished.

READ MORE: Houston surgeon killed wife with poisoned pastry 54 years ago; thats the theory, at least

While the rest of the city partied, Mary Beas family frantically searched for the little girl to no avail. Unlike other missing children, her search party was small as the community focused on Fiesta and the Columbine shooting that happened two days after she disappeared.

Its a lot easier to go to Fiesta and party than it is to go beat on bushes, Bob Walcutt, executive director of the Heidi Search Center, told the San Antonio Express-News in 1999.

A week later, as the city finished Fiesta, a fisherman and his son found Mary Beas body in a ditch near the creek. Her badly decomposed body was clad in only her Mickey Mouse shirt and one white sock.

The young girl, who was known for her radiant smile, met a violent end. The Bexar County Medical Examiners Office determined that she had been raped and strangled to death.

I think about her when she was smiling. I dont want to think of the way they found her, said her mother, Patricia Guerrero.

RELATED: Brutal kidnapping, slaying of Texas child that inspired Amber Alert remains unsolved 27 years later

Nearly a year later, San Antonians learned that Mary Bea was a victim of infamous serial killer Tommy Lynn Sells.

According to court documents, Mary Bea was alone and crying after she lost sight of her family when she stumbled upon Sells and a man named Red. Sells was in San Antonio looking for work with the carnival that accompanies Fiesta, but that night he was drunk and on drugs when he came across the child.

San Antonio Express-News / File photo

Sells told police that he walked with Mary Bea to a spot nearly a mile and a half away near a creek bed behind the Union Stock Yards. They found a mattress that Sells said he passed out on.

When he awoke, he saw Red having sex with Mary Bea. Sells passed out again and awoke a second time to find Red giving him oral sex, prompting the two to fight before Red ran off, Sells told police.

He noticed the little girl sitting on the ground holding her knees to her chest, walked up behind her and strangled her with his hands, the police report said. Sells told police he did it because he didnt want a witness.

READ MORE: A year without her light: Afghan refugee Lina Khil, 3, vanished from a San Antonio apartment complex

Sells, who spent his life as a drifter, has been linked to the deaths of more than a dozen people across numerous states, and law enforcement believes the number of people he killed could be as high as 70.

His earliest victim may have been 39-year-old John Cade of port Gibson, Miss., who was killed with a .32-caliber pistol during a home invasion in July 1979. Investigators said a man who resembled Sells was seen near the crime scene, though it has never been officially confirmed.

Over the next two decades, investigators suspect that Sells committed homicides in Mississippi, Nevada, Missouri, New York, Illinois, Arizona, Florida, Kentucky and Oklahoma. He evaded police as he often changed his victim profile and method of killing.

Sells later told investigators that his killings would often stem from fits of rage and that no man, woman or child was safe from his wrath. In most cases, he bludgeoned or stabbed his victims to death, though several victims were strangled or shot.

He went from irritated to murder, said Larry Pope, a former lieutenant with the Val Verde County Sheriffs Office who arrested Sells.

Sells last victim was 13-year-old Kaylene Katy Harris of Del Rio, Texas. On Dec. 31, 1999, the nomad broke into her trailer, where he attacked Katy and her friend 10-year-old Krystal Surles. He sexually assaulted and stabbed Katy 16 times before slitting Krystals throat.

Miraculously, Krystal survived and was able to identify Sells as the killer.

BAHRAM MARK SOBHANI/SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS

Sells was arrested two days after he killed Katy. He spent several months confessing his crimes to investigators, admitting to killing more than 70 people, though police believed Sells was trying to work the system by also confessing to crimes he didnt commit.

In one case, Sells confessed to fatally shooting Thomas Brose, 40, in San Antonio the year before Mary Bea was kidnapped and killed. A man matching Sells description was seen with the carnival worker prior to Broses death, but Sells later recanted that confession and the case remains unsolved.

Meanwhile, several of Sells confessions exonerated other people who had been convicted of homicides that Sells claimed he committed.

Sells pleaded guilty and was convicted of capital murder in 2003 for Mary Beas death, and then-Bexar County District Attorney Susan Reed agreed to drop her bid for a second death sentence, accepting life in prison in exchange for Sells plea.

On April 4, 2014, Sells was executed with a lethal dose of pentobarbital at the Texas State Penitentiary in Huntsville.

When asked whether he wished to make a final statement, he said no, closed his eyes and began snoring.
For a fleeting moment this month, Fort Hood became Fort Cavazos.

The Army post in Central Texas, named for John Bell Hood, a Confederate general, is set to be redesignated Fort Cavazos in honor of Army Gen. Richard Cavazos, a pathbreaking Hispanic officer who served as a battalion commander during the Vietnam War.

The formal changeover is scheduled for May 9.

Remembering Cavazos: Armys first Hispanic four-star general dies in San Antonio at 88

In the last few days, a photo began appearing on Facebook showing Fort Cavazos in block letters on a sign at an entrance to the base. In front of the sign stood helmeted construction workers and a stepladder.

One of the Facebook users who posted the image was Cavazos daughter, Laura Blevins. Its happening. So surreal, she wrote.

But the renaming of the Clear Creek gate proved to be a false start.

Contractors used the wrong typeface and had to take the lettering down, said Chris Haug, a Fort Hood spokesman.

The sign will be replaced with letters in the correct typeface during the last week in April, Haug said, adding: Our intent is to shoot photos of it, and well share those with you.

William Luther

A congressional commission recommended last year that Fort Hood be renamed after Cavazos, a highly respected career soldier who grew up on the King Ranch and died in San Antonio in 2017 at age 88. He was described as charismatic, fearless and an innovative tactician.

Cavazos was the Armys first Hispanic four-star general and was decorated for heroism in Korea and Vietnam. Many Hispanic officers considered him a mentor and role model. So did Colin Powell, the future secretary of state and chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Soldiers who fought alongside Cavazos described him as loyal, courageous and a soldiers soldier.

Retired Army Maj. Gen. Alfredo Valenzuela, who commanded U.S. Army South when it moved to San Antonio decades ago, said Cavazos served as an inspiration for every Hispanic general who followed him through the ranks.

Fort Hood is one of nine Army installations that are being renamed to remove the names, symbols, displays, monuments and paraphernalia that honor or commemorate the Confederate States of America, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said in a memo to the Pentagons senior leadership in October.

Cavazos father served during World War I and worked as a ranch hand at King Ranch, where Cavazos was raised.

The younger Cavazos is buried at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.

Fort Hood, a 340-square-mile installation near Killeen, about 160 miles northeast of San Antonio, is the nations largest active-duty armored military post.
Two women allege in a lawsuit against the city of San Antonio that they were sexually harassed, bullied and physically abused by their supervisors when they worked at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center.

They accuse the city, which operates the downtown facility, of repeatedly downplaying or dismissing their claims of abuse, even though one of the incidents was caught on camera.

These women did everything right by reporting the abuse in their chain of command, trusting that the city would follow its policies and protect them, said Mark Anthony Sanchez, the plaintiffs' co-counsel. The cold reality is that the city failed them at every step of the way. Not only did the city ignore their cries for help, but it also tacitly gave their abusers a green light to make their lives miserable for stepping forward.

City Attorney Andy Segovia said the city will seek to have the case dismissed. The plaintiffs filed the lawsuit in state district court in San Antonio on Friday.

The city of San Antonio works to provide a safe, discrimination- and harassment-free work environment for all city employees, Segovia said. We investigate specific allegations of inappropriate conduct and, based on the findings, take appropriate action. This process applies to all city departments and facilities.

One of the plaintiffs  maintenance worker Maria Villegas  alleged her male supervisor "grabbed her hair and pulled her head back forcefully" on Aug. 13, 2021, resulting in a stabbing pain in her neck. "As a result of the assault, Ms. Villegas sought medical attention and was diagnosed with neck strain and was temporarily put on lifting restrictions by her doctor," the lawsuit said.

A male witness corroborated her story, according to the lawsuit, and it was caught on a security camera.

The supervisor was suspended for five days and moved to another part of the convention center, the suit said.

On ExpressNews.com: Risk-taking attorney Phil Ross resigns from practice rather than face discipline for misconduct

Villegas then-co-worker, Sarah Schneuker, the other plaintiff in the lawsuit, said her male supervisor frequently made lewd jokes about her and yelled at and belittled her.

The petition alleges that after the women reported the abuse, their supervisors sought to punish them.

Lynn Ellenberger, an attorney who's also representing the women, said the plaintiffs filed the complaint as a class-action lawsuit because other female employees at the convention center may have suffered similar abuses and harassment.

At least six male supervisors at the facility have resigned or been fired recently because of sexual harassment, assault, battery and abuse of female subordinates, according to the lawsuit. However, it wasn't clear in the complaint whether any of the supervisors oversaw Villegas or Schneuker, who was also a maintenance worker at the convention center.

They are seeking unspecified damages for mental anguish and emotional distress, as well as lost wages and benefits and attorneys' fees. They're also asking the court to certify their lawsuit as a class action.

Villegas and Schneuker said four male supervisors discriminated against them. As a result, they said they now have PTSD, anxiety, depression and other mental health problems.

The misconduct included sexual harassment, unwelcome physical groping, forced kissing, false imprisonment, physical assault, sexual assault, sexual text messages, belittling, retaliation, and other types of abusive and harassing conduct, the lawsuit said.

Schneuker said she started fastening her work shirts with safety pins after her supervisor stared at her breasts and bragged to other employees that he was enjoying a peep show. 

The plaintiffs said the harassment followed them home.

Villegas alleged her supervisor asked her for oral sex through Facebook Messenger. She also accused him of forcefully kissing and groping her at work in November 2021.

Ms. Villegas resisted, tried to fight back, and cried for Martinez to stop, the lawsuit said. Horrified and humiliated, she wrestled with him, ultimately pushed him away, and fled.

The stress made Schneuker vomit one day after work a year ago.

On April 28, 2022, the lawsuit said she went to Mayor Ron Nirenbergs office to file a complaint, but a woman in the office told her to report her complaints to her managers.

"Ms. Schneuker became emotionally distraught at the womans disregard for her plight and began crying in grief," the lawsuit said. "The woman reported that Ms. Schneuker was emotionally and mentally unstable. The Mayors office had her involuntarily committed in a psychiatric hospital for three days."

At a candidates forum Monday night, Nirenberg said he couldn't immediately comment on the alleged encounter because he was unaware of the lawsuit and unfamiliar with the plaintiffs' allegations.

The suit  which provided no other details of the office employee's alleged actions  said Schneuker was diagnosed at the psychiatric facility with PTSD.

After the incident, the petition alleges Schneuker was denied a transfer. She said she reluctantly quit her job soon after.

Villegas still works at the convention center.
In San Antonios District 9, on the North Side, we recommended the incumbent John Courage.

An Air Force veteran with a background in education, Courage has been involved in Texas politics since 1981. Hes represented District 9 since 2017 and seeks a fourth term.

While in office, he has focused on protecting the citys water supply, creating and increasing the citys homestead tax exemption and securing funding for the districts first senior center. Hes helped guide city development and championed public safety while also being mindful of the limits of the citys budget.

Courage is also known for outstanding constituent services.

Like many other members of City Council, Courage has taken a firm stance against Proposition A, the Justice Charter. He joined other council members in skipping the councils vote to call a charter election.

Courage is concerned about how the proposal was presented to voters and vows to have copies of the laws language at ballot sites in his district available for review.

If reelected, he will continue developing 2022 city bond improvements for his district, finish the Sonterra Road extension to connect to Loop 1604 and complete Classen-Steubing Ranch Park.

Courage faces three challengers in his reelection bid. Jarrett Lipman and David Allan Lara also met with us, but Dominique Liu did not.

Lipman spent the last 15 years as the band director at Johnson High School. He has moved from his Timberwood Park home to resettle in the district. He has also stepped down from his position at Johnson and invested $20,000 of his own money into his campaign.

Lara is a San Antonio native with an automotive background who currently works at the Bexar County courthouse.

Lipman was knowledgeable on the issues, but there is no reason for voters to make a change. Courage has been an effective councilman.

He deserves another term.
Maria Popova at Brain Pickings:

Know as we might what actually happens when we die, we spend our lives trembling at the fact of our finitude, trying to wrest from it some greater poetic truth  something that slakes the souls thirst for meaning. Even the spiritual materialists among us are haunted by incomprehension at the cessation of consciousness  how can this entire carnival of wonder just, one day, melt into nothingness? And what, in the end, does it all mean, will it all have meant?

These questions come alive in the 1908 book An Indian Study of Love and Death (public library | public domain) by the Irish teacher and activist Margaret Elizabeth Noble (October 18, 1867October 13, 1911), christened Sister Nivedita by Swami Vivekananda after she emigrated to Calcutta when she was twenty-one to begin devoting her life to India and the sacred search for meaning.

more here.
Re: Change needed in District 1 council position, Editorial, Tuesday:

District 1 City Councilman Mario Bravos position on Proposition A, as laid out in his recent letter to his constituents, sounds little different than that of candidate Jeremy Roberts  in part correctly supportive, in part correctly not. I quite agree that the councilman behaved badly in the incident with then-District 7 City Councilwoman Ana Sandoval, but as you note in your editorial, it was over an item about which he feels deeply and over which he thought he had been promised support.

Bravo has become an attentive and effective representative for District 1, helping us deal with serious traffic problems, homelessness and the like. As a resident of District 1, I have no wish to deal with yet another council representative who has to be brought up to speed on the local issues.

You praise Roberts for his business acumen, but you fail to address his experience and skill in dealing with local issues. In my experience, business acumen does not always translate well into local politics.

Peter J. Hugill

Editors note: During our Editorial Board meeting with District 1 candidates, Mario Bravo refused to state whether he supports or opposes Proposition A. He is the only candidate we met with, across all City Council races, who refused to take a position. Jeremy Roberts opposes Proposition A.

Kaur a collaborator

As the editorial points out, District 1 needs a change in leadership.

Former Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff endorsed candidate Sukh Kaur, and with his decades of exceptional public service, he has a keen sense of who has what it takes to be a strong, successful leader on City Council.

Kaur has the intelligence, experience, vision and compassion that you want to see in our elected officials. She is a true collaborator who brings people and ideas together. Kaur understands the needs of businesses and residents in the area and is the right leader for District 1.

Alison Beam

Sharing the load

Recently, I picked up at the San Antonio Food Bank for my church around 11:15 a.m.

It was the biggest load I ever carried and was taller than the cab of my pickup. I took a different route that required a left turn from Callaghan Road to Culebra Road to avoid some construction. During the gentle turn I heard things moving and saw in the mirror boxes hit the middle of the intersection. I pulled into the convenience store to see what I could do to recover the food and unblock the intersection. I do not know where the two San Antonio Police Department officers came from, but suddenly I had instructions and lots of help getting the food items off the roadway and packed back into my truck.

The SAPD folks even picked up the broken boxes! I was too stressed out to get their names but please color me seriously impressed. Thank you and the other folks who jumped in to help.

Jim Branaum, Fair Oaks Ranch
As part of Houstons push to win the Republican National Convention in 2028, the George R. Brown Convention Center could be expanding.

State Sen. John Whitmire, D-Houston, passed legislation out of the Senate this week that would allow Houston to use hotel occupancy taxes to make improvements and expand the convention center, though he did not detail what those plans might look like.

Houston needs to modernize and expand the George R. Brown Convention Center to remain competitive and attract large conventions, such as the 2028 Republican National Convention, Whitmire said in his push for the legislation.

The 2024 Republican National Convention has already been awarded to Milwaukee, and cities are competing for 2028. Nashville and Miami are among those that have reportedly made moves to host the event.

Houston was in the running for the Democratic National Convention in 2020 but was passed over for Milwaukee. It also submitted a bid for 2024, but that convention will be in Chicago.

Houston has not hosted a Republican National Convention since 1992 when George H.W. Bush was renominated for president but lost to Democrat Bill Clinton in the general election.

Houston last hosted a Democratic National Convention in 1928, when New York Gov. Alfred Smith was nominated but lost in the general election to Republican Herbert Hoover.

If Houston were to win the convention, it would be in July or August 2028 with most of the activity at the Toyota Center and the George R. Brown Convention Center. However, when conventions are held in a city, there are dozens of offshoot events that can happen all over the region in hotels and at college campuses.

Holly Clapham, chief marketing officer for Houston First, didnt detail plans for a potential expansion but said if the legislation Whitmire is pushing becomes law, it would help ensure Houston remains a Tier 1 convention destination for years to come.

Houston Republican State Sen. Paul Bettencourt is among those opposing Whitmires bill because of how it is allowing hotel occupancy tax revenue to be used for expenses that werent originally intended. Bettencourt said he doesnt want the Legislature to set a precedent for taxes collected for one purpose to be shifted to some other use.

I am concerned about the long-term implications of it, Bettencourt told Whitmire.

Whitmire, who is running for mayor of Houston, said similar legislation was previously passed to allow Dallas and Fort Worth to use hotel occupancy taxes to expand their convention centers, and he just wants Houston to have that chance so it can better compete for big national conventions.

The bill passed on a 26-5 vote and now heads to the Texas House where it also must pass in order to be sent to Gov. Greg Abbott's desk for final approval.
Tom Reel, San Antonio Express-News / Staff photographer

If you missed the April 6 deadline to register to vote in the May 6 election because you were too busy planning your Easter egg hunt or going through your Fiesta calendar to find a place to park, then you're probably a procrastinator.

If you're still messing with your IRS forms to file your income tax return by today's deadline, then you know you are.
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Uvalde families pleaded with state lawmakers late into the night Tuesday to raise the age to purchase assault-style rifles  a change they said could have saved their children from last year's mass shooting at Robb Elementary School.

RELATED: Uvalde, Santa Fe families rally for gun safety bills on five-year anniversary of Parkland massacre

After waiting for more than 13 hours, the families offered emotional testimony at the Legislatures first, and perhaps only, hearing on substantive gun safety bills this session. They held onto each other for support as they recounted their loved ones last moments, the funerals for 19 small children who never came home and two teachers who used their bodies as human shields.

And they sobbed, audibly, as Rep. Joe Moody, D-El Paso, revealed horrific new information about the crime scene: The gunman had used the victims blood to write LOL on a classroom white board.

The shooter killed 21 people simply because he could, Moody said  because he was able to purchase two AR-15-style rifles and more than 1,600 rounds of ammunition just days after he turned 18.

His message to us wasnt anger or hatred, just something flippant, said Moody, a member of the House committee that investigated the shooting last year. He celebrated that he could do what he did. Thats his critique of us, because we let this happen.

The families have traveled to the Capitol nearly every week for four months to advocate for a slew of gun control bills, with the raise-the-age legislation at the top of their priority list.

Had this bill been the law in the state of Texas one year ago, the gunman would not have been able to purchase the semi-automatic weapon he used to murder our daughter and 20 others eight days after his 18th birthday, said Kimberly Mata-Rubio, who lost her 10-year-old daughter, Lexi. It's too late for us. No action you take will bring back our daughter, but you do have the opportunity to honor Lexi's life and legacy by voting for House Bill 2744, which will make our communities safer and save lives.

BACKGROUND: Uvalde shooting may spur action in Texas Legislature  with one big exception

The measure, authored by Democratic state Rep. Tracy King of Uvalde, would increase the age from 18 to 21, with exceptions for peace officers, military members and anyone who has been honorably discharged from the armed forces.

It also includes a provision allowing temporary loans to Texans under 18 in some circumstances, like at sports shooting ranges and on hunting trips.

If any other Democrat had filed a raise-the-age bill during the last session of the Legislature or the session before, I probably would have voted against it, and I've said that publicly, said King, a moderate. But at 11:30 ... on May 24, 2022, everything changed.

The hearing was a step forward for the family members-turned-advocates, but the bill is unlikely to advance in the GOP-controlled Legislature.

Many Republicans and gun rights advocates contend the proposal is unconstitutional, infringing on the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding gun owners. Gov. Greg Abbott has said as much, though legal experts say its an unsettled question.

NRA  we represent 18-, 19- and 20-year-olds who are not mass shooters, said Tara Mica, a regional lobbyist for the National Rifle Association. We defend the Constitution. Realistically, a raise-the-age bill is likely to be litigated and found unconstitutional.

READ MORE: Five years after Santa Fe massacre, relatives still denied records of loved ones' last moments

GOP lawmakers have instead focused on bolstering mental health resources and fortifying school buildings in the aftermath of the massacre. Senate Bill 11, the upper chamber's school safety proposal tackling those subjects, was passed by the chamber on Wednesday.

The House committee, where Republicans also hold a majority, did not take a vote on the measure Tuesday night. Even if it advances there, its unlikely to secure enough votes to pass on the House floor. And any gun restrictions are a nonstarter for Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who oversees the Senate.

Tess didn't have a choice in life or death, said Veronica Mata, whose 10-year-old daughter died at Robb Elementary. But you, as leaders, have a choice of what my daughter's life will be remembered for. Will she die in vain, or will her life save another child  maybe your child?

The raise-the-age legislation was not the only gun safety bill that the House committee heard on Tuesday. The agenda also included measures that would require firearm dealers to report certain gun sales to law enforcement; enforce stronger background checks; and implement a mandatory waiting period for firearm sales.

The Senate has so far declined to grant a hearing to similar bills in the upper chamber.

cayla.harris@hearst.com
Fairfield, MT (59436)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun in the morning followed by cloudy skies during the afternoon. High 62F. Winds SW at 15 to 25 mph. Higher wind gusts possible..

Tonight

Windy with a few clouds from time to time. Low 38F. Winds WSW at 20 to 30 mph. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph.
A Marine sniper serving during the Afghanistan evacuation recently gave testimony to the House Foreign Affairs Committee on the Afghanistan evacuation. His pain was palpable. A revelation worth examining was his identification of the possible suicide bomber prior to the incident. After the sniper, Sgt Vargas-Andrews, confirmed the target with multiple agencies, he asked his Battalion Commander, LtCol Whited, for permission to shoot. The answer from Whited, one in which Vargas-Andrews said hell never forget, was, I dont know.

Not found in the media or Congressional testimony is that Whited, a former peer of mine, corroborated this version of events in his formal statement for the militarys investigation. When speaking to the investigating officer, General Curtis, on 5 October 2021, Whited stated, [We had] a description of a person of interest. We watched him for hours It bothers me still that we lost track of him, and never heard anything back from higher about him.

The obvious indecision in Kabul on 26 August 2021 has a much deeper undercurrent. Since World War II, the American military promotion system hasnt evolved with the needs of todays challenging security environment. Current military professionals are conditioned, above all else, to please superiors for continued advancement. Said another way, when promotion is the mission, it will always be more important than troop welfare. I dont know is another way of saying, The risk to force isnt as great as the risk to my career.

This understanding leads to an obvious question: Can the military incentivize performance over career progression?

Predictably, without changes to the military system, the lessons of the past will consistently need to be re-learned. In some depressing ways, the Afghanistan evacuation was executed incrementally better than the 1983 Beirut operation; Vargas-Andrews at least had bullets in his gun. The Marines standing post in Beirut werent allowed to insert magazines into their weapons. Those Marines were forced to watch a vehicle IED drive past their security post and kill 220 Marines. General officers from the Beirut incident later testified to Congress that negligent discharges into the city were more of a risk than providing Marines on post the lethal force required for protection.

Unfortunately, like the unnecessary loss of life during the Afghanistan evacuation, general officers following the 1983 Beirut incident were also absolved of responsibility. In fact, General Alford Gray, who commanded the division of the attacked Marine unit, later went on to become the Commandant of the Marine Corps. Similarly, General Farrell Sullivan, the officer who LtCol Whited never heard back from, was promoted in billet upon his return the states. Despite General Berger, the Commandant of the Marine Corps, stating on 1 September 2021 that he wanted an honest, open critique, or a commission that cracks open the options available [for the Afghanistan evacuation,] an internal military panel never materialized. This may be for many reasons. Yet an objective analysis must acknowledge that General Farrell Sullivan, who both the sniper and battalion commander waited on for engagement approval, also previously served as the battalion executive officer in 2002 while General Berger commanded 3/8. Again, never underestimate the importance of relationships and pleasing a boss in the antiquated military system.

Compounding the general officers inability to hold themselves accountable, Congress, enamored of the military officer, also fails to provide accountability even after listening to long lists of inexcusable mistakes. While Congress controls the DoD budget, they demonstrate an unwillingness to use the budget as a tool for influence. Why? Asking tough questions is less risky than being painted as anti-military for standing in the way of the DoD budget. In other words, there are fewer risks to career advancement within the current model. Sound familiar?

It is also worth noting that most Americans apolitically believe President Biden mishandled the Afghanistan evacuation. But most Republicans only selectively remember President Reagan strengthening the military. President Reagan made the decision to send Marines to Beirut, and Reagan, much like Biden, was too afraid to hold senior military leaders accountable for their failures.

A commander in chief is unlikely to fire a general for military failure if it reflects poorly on the presidents decision making. If the lists from the 1983 Beirut operation, the Afghanistan evacuation, and the numerous other in-between examples arent enough to justify the relief of a general officer, self-serving incentives dictate that military officers should consistently default towards career protecting decisions.

The underlying reason for this I dont know or I was just following the orders I was given culture is the current promotion system. In every branch of service, officer promotions are based solely on subjective evaluations from a boss. While most people want to believe that military commanders evaluate subordinates based strictly on occupational performance, anyone who has served knows that impressing a boss for a top evaluation requires substantially more finesse than job performance. Military professionals are hyper aware that during some critical billets, it only takes one bad evaluation to end a career. Thus, the secret to a military career is more about pleasing a boss, than demonstrating objective performance.

The House Armed Forces Committee renewed investigation into the Afghanistan evacuation may continue illustrating shortfalls by senior military leaders. But without a mechanism to change the culture of the military, current people-pleasing incentives will ultimately dictate the future actions of military professionals.

I believe the military must move to a performance-based promotion system now. Americans can no longer afford the unnecessary loss of life of their sons and daughters based on antiquated systemic career progression incentives. The next Secretary of Defense should make this a focus above all other initiatives. A bosss assessment may be a factor in promotion, but occupational performance must be more important.

The military should develop warfighting games pitting leaders against each other. Make it truly free play. F-16 pilot against F-16 pilot, infantry officer against infantry officer, logistician against logistician, and so on. The winner must demonstrate performance through action, not assessment through the eyes of a boss. The winner receives preferential treatment for promotion. Furthermore, the next Secretary of Defense must be more aggressive in building a system of incentives for promotion based on performance, not time. Any military member should be able to try out for higher ranks during the wargame competition. Move talented leaders up more quickly. This will do more for retaining talent than all other initiatives.

If the military builds a true performance-based system, it is more likely the leaders of the organization will be empowered by their judgment than by the assessments and opinions of their superiors. Hopefully, the next Sgt Vargas-Andrews never receives the answer, I dont know. Performers make decisions. People pleasers and rule followers wait for the answer from a superior.

Can the military incentivize performance over career progression? I believe it can, but leadership must fundamentally change the system of incentives prioritizing career progression over junior service members sacrifices. This starts with new leadership demonstrating the same courage expected from the troops on the ground.

Stuart Scheller is a former LtCol, USMC and author of Crisis of Command: How We Lost Trust and Confidence in Americas Generals and Politicians
Arla has erected a replica Victorian sewer lamp by parliament to draw attention to the untapped potential of biogas derived from cow manure and food waste as an energy source.

The UK dairy cooperative said it wanted to draw attention to this 'often overlooked' source of renewable energy, calling for a new plan to harness its potential.

Tapping into biogas was once a staple of Victorian Britain after Birmingham engineer, Joseph Edmund Webb, patented a sewer gas destructor lamp fuelled by emissions from Londons sewers.

Arla said that the government could "once again harness the power of poo" to help solve the UKs energy security crisis with a strategy for anaerobic digestion of farm and food waste.

The co-op is calling for a new strategy incorporating larger community-based facilities generating biogases that can be fed into the gas grid or used in transport, and small scale digesters creating energy for use on farm.

It is also championing 'better and more affordable' grid connections, while at the same time helping more farmers install solar power and other renewables.

James Pirie, vice president of logistics at Arla, said dairy farmers had the potential to play a major role in the future of the UKs energy security.

He said: "Britains livestock sector has the potential to turn nearly 91 million tonnes of manure and slurry and 10 million tonnes of food waste into 8 billion cubic metres of biomethane, enough to power 6.4 million homes.

"If we put the right policy changes in place and give our farmers the support they need, we can unlock the potential for even more farms to scale their use of renewable energy sources."

Stephen Temple, a farmer who supplies Arla, said cow slurry had the potential to power communities across the UK.

However, he said installation of an anaerobic digestor to make this happen was not cheap, and operation and maintenance had to be learnt.

He said: "Were hoping that with the governments help we can resolve the difficulties farmers face with grid connections, costly installations, and regulatory and planning issues so we can better utilise this invaluable energy source.
Sheep farmers should make the most of funding from Defra's Animal Health & Welfare Pathway to optimise the timing of the worming treatment check, experts have said.

Eligible livestock farmers in England can currently access 436 million funding for a vet-led health and welfare review, as well as a worming treatment check.

While the vet review focuses on issues most appropriate for an individual flock, the worming treatment check is designed specifically to determine the effectiveness of an anthelmintic (worming) treatment on a farm.

The Sustainable Control of Parasites in Sheep (SCOPS) group said the treatment check was not a definitive test for anthelmintic resistance.

However, the expert group added that it would help farmers to understand which wormer groups were working effectively on the farm.

Eligible farmers have six months from the point of registration to complete the worming treatment check.

Speaking on behalf of SCOPS, independent sheep consultant Lesley Stubbings said: The important thing to remember is that you should only carry it out on lambs that you know need to be treated because their worm burden is high enough.

"Ideally, this means carrying out a faecal egg count (FEC) before starting the Worming Treatment Check, so you can make sure the timing is optimal.

"You cannot check the effectiveness of a treatment at killing adult worms if there are not enough worms present in the first place.

The worming treatment check consists of two FECs. One is taken at the time of treatment to measure the number of adult roundworms present in the lambs.

A second is then taken at a set interval after treatment and the difference determines how effective the treatment has been at killing the worms in the sheep.

Participating farmers will receive a sampling kit, instructions explaining how to take good samples and packaging with pre-paid postage back to the lab.

Ms Stubbings explained: It is very important the worming treatment check is carried out at an appropriate time, for example in June/July when there are lambs at pasture with a FEC that indicates they require treatment.

"A minimum FEC of 250 eggs per gram is needed for the test to be worthwhile, so discuss with your vet or adviser doing some monitoring ahead of the using the check.

The worming treatment check must be carried out by an accredited laboratory, listed on the Defra website.

The lab will send out kits with instructions enabling farmers to collect their own samples to post back, then a report will be provided.
Farmers have been told to continue to maintain rigorous biosecurity measures and to remain vigilant for the signs of bird flu as the housing order is lifted.

Defra and the devolved governments announced last week that the mandatory housing order would end today, on Tuesday 18 April.

The strict measure was introduced in November 2022 as one of a range of measures to stop the spread of avian influenza.

While the housing order has now ended, the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ), which covers England and Wales, remains in force.

It means that all bird keepers must continue to meet the enhanced biosecurity measures set out in the declaration.

The scale of outbreaks across the UK and Europe have been unprecedented, with over 330 cases confirmed across the country since late October 2021.

Poultry farms have been hit particularly hard, with approximately four million farm birds culled.

Just last week, two cases of highly pathogenic bird flu were confirmed in East Yorkshire and Powys.

Dr Christine Middlemiss, the UKs chief veterinary officer, said 'scrupulous biosecurity' remained the most critical form of defence to help keep birds safe.

She said: It is thanks to the hard work of all bird keepers and vets who have played their part in keeping flocks safe this winter that we are in a position to take this action.

"However, the unprecedented nature of this outbreak has proven its more important than ever for bird keepers to remain vigilant for signs of disease and maintain stringent standards of biosecurity.

Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales, Richard Irvine added: "Whether keepers have a few birds or a thousand, it is vital the very highest standards of biosecurity are maintained.

Vigilance is also key, and its important any signs or suspicion of avian influenza is reported immediately."

He added: I want to thank bird keepers across Wales for their continued efforts to keep their flocks safe.

From today, eggs laid by hens with access to outside range areas can return to being marketed as free range eggs.

The British Free Range Egg Producers Association (BFREPA) said that free range egg producers would be 'relieved' to see their hens ranging outside again.

It is vital that all poultry keepers  regardless of poultry numbers  continue to treat the situation as high risk," BFREPA CEO Robert Gooch said.

This message is particularly important to small flock and backyard keepers who may not be aware that practising good biosecurity principles can help protect nearby farms.

BFREPA will continue to work with the government and other industry stakeholders to explore options which may reduce the threat of avian influenza to commercial poultry.

What can I do to strengthen biosecurity?

The AIPZ requires keepers of poultry and other captive birds to take appropriate and practicable steps to prevent avian influenza, including:

 Keeping kept birds off land that is known to be, or at high risk of being, frequented by wild waterfowl, or contaminated by their droppings or feathers.

 Ensure the areas where birds are kept are unattractive to wild birds, especially waterfowl, for example, by netting ponds and surrounding areas and by removing wild bird food sources;

 Feed and water birds in enclosed areas to discourage wild birds;

 Minimise movement of people in and out of bird enclosures;

 Clean and disinfect footwear, use foot dips before entering poultry enclosures, and keep areas where birds live clean and tidy;

 Ensure all bedding, equipment, clothing and anything else that enters the areas where birds are kept are free of direct or indirect contamination with HPAI, which is mainly spread through bird droppings.

 Keep domestic ducks and geese separate from other poultry.

 All of these steps are important in protecting birds. Alongside these, completing the mandatory biosecurity self-assessment can further help keepers identify the measures needed to be taken to ensure the safety of their flock.

Findings of dead wild birds should continue to be reported to the Defra helpline on 03459 33 55 77 and keepers should continue to promptly report suspicion of disease in their birds to APHA on 0300 303 8268.
The UK's decision to join a trade pact consisting of several countries around the world could help boost exports of pork, particularly to Mexico.

The UK signed a trade agreement with the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), a trade agreement between 11 nations.

It includes Mexico, a country with a substantial demand for high-quality pork. In 2021, British pork was sent there for the first time, in a deal worth 50m over the first five years of trade.

The new deal with the CPTPP, which the UK signed in late March, will eliminate the most favoured nation tariffs of up to 20%  making Mexico a more attractive market for pork exporters in the UK.

Accession to the trade bloc will grant the UK access to the same tariff preferences as other CPTPP members, which exceed the existing bilateral free trade agreement with Mexico.

The UK secured market access for pork to Mexico in 2021 following years of negotiations and inspections led by Defra and the UK Export Certification Partnership (UKECP).

Mexico is the 15th largest economy in the world, second largest in Latin America, making it a hugely important market for UK exporters.

The countrys growing population has led to an increased demand for imports, and the economy is set to expand by 35% by 2035.

AHDB, which is currently working to gain market access for offal, said Mexico's location was a gateway to the Americas and the trans-Pacific region.

The levy board's senior exports manager, Susana Morris said the Mexican market presented 'a fantastic opportunity' for pig meat products, especially offal.

The Mexican consumer is becoming more conscious about how meat is produced, so animal welfare and sustainability are important," she explained.

"The UK is highly regarded for its welfare and food safety standards, so this presents a great opportunity for UK farmers and producers.

Also, Mexico has a small segment of its population that is considered wealthy, who are increasingly searching for high quality products and willing to pay a premium, which presents another opportunity for our pork.

To help boost exports in this market, Defra recently appointed Catrina Kenny as a new Agri Attache, based in the UKs Embassy in Mexico.
NFU Scotland has today announced the appointment of John Davidson as its new chief executive, who takes the position during a 'critical time' for the industry.

Mr Davidson, who is the deputy chief executive at the industry body Scotland Food & Drink, replaces Scott Walker who stepped down from his post last year.

NFU Scotland President's Martin Kennedy said he "stood out as the ideal candidate to lead the organisation into our next chapter".

Mr Davidson joined Scotland Food & Drink in 2020 after a lengthy career in various senior roles across the Scottish government.

Well known across the farming and food industry, he has been instrumental in supporting the sectors recovery following the UK's exit from the EU and the pandemic.

He has recently been leading the development of the new national food and drink strategy for Scotland, which aims to strengthen the resilience of the entire industry and grow its value and reputation domestically and internationally.

He will start his new role at NFU Scotland in June when he will become the 11th chief executive since the unions formation in 1913.

NFU Scotland President, Martin Kennedy said: His passion, energy, and vision for the organisation and for Scottish agriculture in general was inspiring.

John is extremely well connected across the industry and has a tremendous grasp and understanding of government affairs.

"Above all, he has the personality and leadership skills we need to drive forward the business of NFU Scotland and lead our fantastic team in delivering the best possible outcome for our growing farming and crofting membership."

Mr Davison said he was 'delighted and honoured' to be joining NFU Scotland and leading it "at such a critical time for the industry".

There are many challenges facing our farmers and crofters, but I genuinely believe the future for the industry is bright," he said.

Agriculture is one of the worlds oldest and most important industries and is woven into the fabric of Scotland, making a substantial contribution to our economy, communities, and environment.

"It is absolutely vital that this is understood across all aspects of society, just as it is critical that the industry is given the support and conditions it needs to ensure a vibrant and profitable future with food production at its core.

"I look forward to working across the industry and beyond to achieve this.
An Indian man who fell in love with a crane is pleading to be reunited with his bird.

A man in love with a sarus crane has been separated from his bird

Muhammad Arif, a farmer in the Uttar Pradesh state, discovered the sarus crane in a field with a broken leg last year and formed a bond with the animal as he nursed it back to health using traditional medicine.

Arif insists that he and the rare crane are in love and he has even removed himself from his family and friends to live and share meals with the bird.

However, Indian forestry officials arrived at his house and took the crane to a zoo over 150 miles away while charging Arif under the Wildlife Protection Act for keeping an endangered bird.

He told the Daily Telegraph newspaper: "I am in deep pain after they separated my friend from me. It is like a member of my family has been caged. It troubles me.

"The government should free us from this pain."

Arif has stayed close to the zoo in Kanpur since the crane was taken from him and accused forestry officials of taking his happiness away.

He said of the bird: "It was the first time I had felt so strongly for anyone."
Russia and China have sparked fears of World War III as they plan a "no-limits" military alliance.

Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin are planning a 'no-limits' military alliance

Russian president Vladimir Putin and Chinese Defence Minister Li Shangfu are working on worrying plans that will only strengthen the military might of both nations.

The Russian tyrant said: "We are working actively through our military departments, regularly exchange useful information, work together in the field of military-technical cooperation, and hold joint exercises."

The two countries are already close allies and their meeting follows a separate event attended by Putin and Chinese leader Xi Jinping where the pair were heard discussing their "no limits" partnership.

The statement from Moscow has led to some US military experts predicting that China could supply Russia with "lethal equipment".

CIA Director William Burns is "confident that the Chinese leadership is considering the provision of lethal equipment".

The allegation has angered members of China's foreign ministry and politician Wang Wenbin accused the CIA of "shifting blame and spreading disinformation" toward Beijing.

He said: "The US has no right to give orders to China, and we have never accepted the US's finger-pointing at China-Russia relations, let alone pressure or coercion."
Janet Jackson says being a mama gives her the greatest gratification in life.

Janet Jackson says being a mama gives her the greatest gratification in life

The five-time Grammy winner, who has sold 100 million records and produced 11 albums during her three decades-plus career, insisted the satisfaction of motherhood had eclipsed her other accomplishments.

She teared up as she told Today host Sheineille Jones about how blessed she feels bringing up her son Eissa Al Mana, six, who she had with ex-husband Wissam Al Mana: (The title) that gives me the biggest gratification is mama. Thats it. Mama.

When youre tired. When you need a break. I love it all Im sorry Im getting emotional because Im thinking of one thing in particular, and Ill never forget it.

It was just so beautiful, and I just thought, thats my baby thats the highest for me. Being a mama.

Janet, who turns 57 on May 16 and gave birth to Eissa, aged 50, said in October at a party in Shoreditch House, London to mark the 25th anniversary of the release of her The Velvet Rope album: Theres so much that I want to do but my No1 job is being a mama.

She also told fans at the gathering the first time anyone showed appreciation for her music was when a fan waved one of her CDs at her in traffic.

She said: I would say out of all the albums that I created, and especially with Jimmy (Jam) and Terry (Lewis  the records producers), it (The Velvet Rope) was the most difficult album for me.

I was going through so much in my life and it was so deep, trying to figure out who I am and where I stand.

I didnt know if my fans would like it but one of the best moments in my life connected to this album?

The day that it was released, I was in traffic coming from Malibu and someone honked their horn, and I happened to look over and there was a girl in the car and she held up The Velvet Rope CD and she smiled at me.

It made me feel so good. That was the first person to acknowledge to me that, Yeah, you did something that I really do appreciate, and 25 years later it being No1 again today?

Thank you so, so much for this. Thank you Jimmy and Terry for always being my two dads. You were always there for me through thick, thin and the worst.
Paris Hilton's husband Carter Reum realised the heiress fancied him when she told a housekeeper she can't eat in front of "cute guys".

Carter Reum and Paris Hilton hit it off instantly

The pair were sitting next to each other for Thanksgiving at Carter's sister Halles mother-in-law Dana Hammond's Hamptons home when the housekeeper noticed Paris wasn't tucking into her dinner.

Speaking on the relaunched 'I am Paris' podcast, Paris recalled: "I remember walking in and just seeing you sitting there at the table. You had this big smile and your eyeballs were popping out of your head in a good way."

Carter continued: About halfway during the meal, the housekeeper walked over and said, Ms. Hilton, Ms. Hilton, is something wrong with the food? Youre not eating, and Ill never forget this, [Paris] said, I dont like to eat in front of cute boys, and Im like, So youre saying theres a chance!'

Paris then asked Carter to step outside with her to get some "fresh air", however, it turned out the DJ had other intentions, with Paris instigating her first kiss with her now-spouse.

Carter remembered: I actually thought we were going to get fresh air.

I turned the corner, you immediately kissed me. My life has never been the same since then.

Paris laughed: You loved it."

Carter added: Absolutely I loved it. Are you kidding me? Paris Hilton kissed me at Thanksgiving dinner.

I was like a kid in a candy store.

The 42-year-old former 'Simple Life' star had no intention of dating Carter - with whom she welcomed her first child, son Phoenix, via surrogate in January - at the time but she knew they shared a special "connection".

Paris gushed: The whole time I was like, I cant wait to make out with him.

I just had such a crush on you right away.

After a traumatic past, Paris says Carter, also 42, cared enough to break down the "huge walls" she put up.

She added: I feel like I had such huge walls around my heart and you pulled those walls down.

[You make] me feel like my best version of myself and have made me grow in so many ways.
A documentary on Prince Andrews infamous interview about his links to Jeffrey Epstein will be shown at the time of King Charles coronation.

A documentary on Prince Andrews infamous interview about his links to Jeffrey Epstein will be shown at the time of King Charles coronation

The show, which has a working title of Andrew  The Problem Prince, will be aired by Channel 4 as part of the broadcasters alternative taken on Charles 6 May crowning, and will feature interviewer Emily Maitlis, 52, talking about landing the 2019 chat that saw her go head-to-head with the Duke of York, 63, about his relationship with paedophile billionaire Epstein and claims he had sex with one of the late billionaires sex trafficking victims Virginia Giuffre  which Andrew denies.

Channel 4 said about its plans to show it around the time Andrews older brother Charles, 74, will be crowned at Londons Westminster Abbey: As the nation prepares for the coronation of His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen Consort next month, Channel 4 is set to mark the occasion in an altogether different way in Andrew  The Problem Prince (working title), Emily Maitlis speaks in detail about the interview that shook the monarchy and the world in November 2019.

This brand-new two-part documentary series uses rare archive footage, interviews with BBC producer Sam McAlister and exclusive access to palace insiders, to uncover the inside story of Prince Andrew's disastrous Newsnight interview and unravel the scandal that led to his spectacular fall from grace.

The documentary will also examine Andrews past, his childhood and time in the military.

Ian Katz, Channel 4s chief content officer, said about the decision to air it as millions of royal fans will celebrate Charles coronation: Channel 4 exists to provide viewers with an alternative, so as the nation is engulfed by pomp, circumstance and forelock-tugging, well be offering a rather less reverential slate of programmes.

As part of Channel 4s programming around the coronation, viewers will have another chance to see Prince Andrew: The Musical and Frankie Boyles Farewell to the Monarchy documentary, pulled last year from schedules last year after the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

Satirical sitcom The Windsors starring Harry Enfield as Charles will also return for a Coronation Special that will mock holding the ceremony amid the cost of living crisis gripping Britain.

Charles will reportedly mark his coronation by only appearing on the Buckingham Palace with 15 working royals, with Andrew said to have been left out of the line-up.
Climate and environment ministers from the Group of Seven (G7) countries have agreed to take decisive action to tackle global nature loss. At a meeting held in Sapporo, Japan, the ministers agreed on a joint statement committing to the swift and effective implementation of the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF). The framework was agreed upon in Montreal last year and aims to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030.

The UK played a key role in developing the GBF and was represented at the meeting by environment secretary Therese Coffey and secretary of state for energy security and net zero, Grant Shapps. Guest countries, including India, Indonesia and the UAE, were also in attendance, the government of UK said in a press release.

The G7 climate and environment ministers have agreed to swift and effective implementation of the GBF, aiming to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030. They committed to mobilise funding from all sources to support developing countries in protecting nature, while dedicating a significant amount of international climate finance to nature-based solutions.

The ministers also highlighted the need to mobilise funding from all sources to support developing countries in protecting nature. They committed to dedicating a significant amount of international climate finance to nature-based solutions that deliver benefits for climate, people and nature. The ministers called on multilateral development banks (MBDs) and international financial institutions (IFIs) to do the same, while also urging businesses to progressively reduce negative impacts on biodiversity and increase positive impacts.

During the meeting, Coffey called on her fellow ministers to deliver on existing commitments to increase finance for nature to close the nature finance gap and to scrap or repurpose environmentally harmful subsidies.

In addition to the commitments related to biodiversity, the ministers also pledged to redouble their efforts to end plastic pollution by 2040, halt and reverse forest loss by 2030, protect marine biodiversity in the high seas, and reduce pollution.

Environment secretary Therese Coffey said: The G7 have committed to the swift and effective implementation of the landmark Global Biodiversity Framework, which aims to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030.

Following this historic agreement reached at COP15 last year, I am delighted to have met my G7 counterparts today to discuss ways we can build on this as a global community and tackle the challenges we all face with meaningful and urgent action.

We have seen tremendous progress this weekend and it has been great to see our countries working together to raise our ambition and lead by example, each playing our part.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DP)
Apple's CEO Tim Cook is currently in Mumbai for a store launch. During his stay, Cook spent some time with actress Madhuri Dixit. He also tasted Mumbai's most popular snack - vada pav.Madhuri Dixit and Tim Cook visited a local eatery in Mumbai where the two enjoyed some vada pav. Madhuri shared a glimpse of their meal on her social media handle. She wrote, "Cant think of a better welcome to Mumbai than Vada Pav!"Check it out here:While the comments section was filled with reactions, Cook replied to the post in a tweet that read, "Thanks for introducing me to my first Vada Pav  it was delicious."Twitterati couldn't help but reference Madhuri Dixit's iconic track Choli Ke Peeche from her film Khal Nayak. A user jokingly wrote, "Cook cook cook cook" in the comments under the photo.Tim Cook reportedly met several celebrities at the store launch. Raveena Tandon also shared a snap with the CEO. Take a look -After Mumbai, Tim Cook is expected to travel to Delhi.On the work front, Madhuri Dixit was last seen in Maja Maa.
Ileana D'Cruz Boyfriend: Bollywood actress Ileana D'Cruz has taken the internet by storm with her surprise pregnancy announcement. The soon-to-be mommy shared two adorable pictures to make the announcement.

Ileana took to her Instagram handle and shared a picture of a baby romper with 'And so the adventure begins' written over it and the second picture showcased a 'mama' pendant. Sharing the pictures, the Barfi actress wrote, "Coming soon. Can't wait to meet you my little darling."

As soon as the diva shared the happy news, fans flooded her comments section with congratulatory messages for the soon-to-be mommy. Ileana's mother, Samira D'Cruz was also one of those who commented on her post. An elated soon-to-be granny wrote on her post, "Welcome soon to the world my new grand baby (heart emoji) can't wait (dancing emoji)."

We even saw a comment from a fan page of Vicky Kaushal and Katrina Kaif that wrote, "Congratulations from the VicKat community!! What a blessing."

DID YOU KNOW ILEANA D'CRUZ IS CURRENTLY DATING KATRINA KAIF'S BROTHER

For the unversed, Ileana D'cruz is allegedly currently in a relationship with Bollywood actress Katrina Kaif's brother Sebastien Laurent Michel. The dating rumors went afloat after Ileana was spotted at Katrina Kaif's birthday celebration in the Maldives in July last year. The pictures from the celebration went viral in no time.

While, neither Ileana nor Sebastian has commented anything about their relationship, it was reported that they started dating in 2022 beginning. It was reported by ETimes that they spend time with each other at Kaif's old apartment in Bandra or Ileana's pad in Bandra and London, away from the media glare.

WHO IS SEBASTIAN LAURANT MICHEL?

Bollywood actress Katrina Kaif's brother Sebastian Laurent Michel is a model by profession. He was seen at Katrina Kaif-Vicky Kaushal's wedding. He mostly chooses to stay away from media glare and has Instagram handle private too.

KARAN JOHAR CONFIRMED ILEANA-SEBASTIEN RELATIONSHIP

During an episode of Koffee With Karan where Katrina Kaif was one of the guests, the host KJo talked about Ileana's connection with Kaif's family. Karan Johar said, "On a Maldives trip some images came out and I was doing the math in my head. I said 'Okay I saw these two meet for the first time in front of me at a party' and I'm like 'That moved fast as well'," while prefixing the as 'We don't have to confirm that'.

To this, Katrina laughed and said that KJo has been witnessing a lot of things around him and added that she thought about 'Eye of Sauron'.

Meanwhile, Ileana was earlier dating Australian photographer, Andrew Kneebone, but they parted ways in 2019 after dating for a few years.
Sherlyn Chopra Files Molestation Case: Bollywood actress Sherlyn Chopra is again grabbing the headlines as she has filed a molestation case against a Mumbai-based financier. In the complaint filed at Juhu Police Station on April 14, the actress claimed that the accused also threatened to kill her.

Sherlyn alleged that the investor molested her on the pretext of featuring her in a music giving and giving money for the same. However, he tried to touch her inappropriately hurled abuses at her, and threatened to kill her when she opposed his advances.

SHERLYN CHOPRA FILES MOLESTATION CASE AGAINST INVESTOR

Sherlyn reportedly filed an FIR against a Mumbai-based financier, Sunil Parasmani Lodha, who tricked into believing her that he will cast her in an upcoming music video. A statement by the Mumbai Police reads, "Case registered against the accused under sections 354, 506, 509 of IPC. Further probe underway".

SHERLYN CHOPRA SHARES THE COMPLETE INCIDENT

The actress recalled the incidents that followed and said that her manager informed her that an investor has expressed a desire to feature Sherlyn in a music video and he wanted to meet her. Soon the song was recorded, and Sherlyn's manager took her to meet the accused at a hotel.

The investor claimed to be a huge admirer of Sherlyn and expressed his eagerness to invest money in songs featuring her. He even paid some amount of money to Sherlyn's manager on the spot itself. It raised doubt in her mind, and she said that recording a music video with the given amount was impossible.

She said that a good music video would cost at least Rs 15 to 20 lakh. The investor surprisingly agreed. Post the meeting, Sherlyn gave the investor a lift in her car. Upon reaching her house, the investor expressed his desire to visit her house. The actress welcomed him to her house and even prepared dinner.

But soon after dinner, Sunil started molesting her even after she opposed his advances. He tried to touch her inappropriately citing he was so smitten by the actress.
Aarti Mittal Arrest: The crime branch unit of Dindoshi police on Monday busted a sex racket in Mumbai and arrested an actress cum casting director, Aarti Mittal.

As per ANI's tweet, the crime branch of Mumbai police mentioned, "Mumbai Crime Branch Unit 11, Dindoshi police busted a sex racket running in Goregaon area. Two models were rescued from the spot and a 30-year-old casting director, Aarti Mittal was arrested in this case."

As per reports, the social service branch of the police sent two dummy customers to bust the racket. Later police rescued two models who have been sent to a rehab center. A video of the entire incident was recorded by the police as evidence.

AARTI MITTAL ARRESTED FOR PROSTITUTION RACKET

The models who were rescued revealed that Aarti had promised to pay them Rs 15000 each. As per the authorities, Police Inspector Manoj Sutar was the one who received the information about the racket. He then formed a team, posed as a customer, and called Mittal.

The PI asked Mittal to arrange for two girls for his friends. Mittal allegedly demanded Rs 60,000 to arrange. The police said Mittal targeted girls when she met them during projects. She offered them good money to get into prostitution.

WHO IS AARTI MITTAL

The accused, Aarti Harishchandra Mittal, is a resident of Aradhana Apartments in Oshiwara, Mumbai. She works as a casting director for films and also as an actor. and is a resident of Aradhana Apartments in Oshiwara.

Aarti Mittal was equally famous on social media. She almost has 103k followers and is quite active on Instagram. Her Insta bio reads, states she is the owner of @trademarkedplantasticfilms, seemingly her casting company.

She has also been featured in the TV show, Appnapan - Badalate Rishton Ka Bandhan. Recently, in her social media post, she revealed that she was working on a film, alongside Bollywood actor R Madhavan.
Director Aameer Sultan opined that "In an environment where films like 'Ponniyin Selvan' need promotion, Vimal, the hero of 'Kulasamy', should have attended the audio launch function."

'Kulasamy' starring Vimal and Tanya Hope, directed by Saravana Sakthi, who directed 'Billa Pandi' films, with dialogues written by Vijay Sethupathi. The audio and trailer launch of the film, which is slated to hit the screens on April 21, was held in Chennai.

Director and actor Aameer Sultan, who participated in the film, said, "Ponniyin Selvan has seen great actors together, starting with Aishwarya Rai. Besides Mani Ratnam, AR Rahman and Lyca, it was Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan who brought the music release of the film to the masses.

Now the second part of the film is coming. The actors are going for promotions. Looking at it that way, such a big film needs a big promotion. It cannot be said that it is right or wrong. The hero and heroine of the film 'Kulasamy' must have attended this event. But they don't. Actors need responsibility.

In 2003, I made the film 'Ram' myself and invested lakhs. The film won international awards. The film ran for only 3 days in Thondi. If someone trusts the hero named Vimal and invests money, then the hero also has a stake in it. It is not acceptable that I will just act and go away.

I am talking about what cinema is today. Today there is a need to promote the film. Today films will survive only on the first week collection. Such big actors come and fight for promotions themselves. Actors acting in small budget films need responsibility.

It is not acceptable for individuals, political parties or social organizations to ban a film after it has been censored. At the same time, comments from the film should be avoided if they cause confusion. Political awareness should be created through films. Apart from that, riots should not be created."
Trisha From PS 2 Promotions Photo Credit: Instagram

Trisha, who is reverse-aging like a fine wine, is stealing our thunder with each appearance she has been making of late. The petite and pretty Kundavai of Ponniyin Selvan enthralled her fans at the recent event of the PS 2 promotional campaign in Coimbatore.

Speaking at the promotional event that the team Ponniyin Selvan 2 kick-started from Coimbatore, Trisha said, " It's been a while. I have always loved three things about Coimbatore. Firstly the Kongu Tamizh which I find very cute. I love the amazing food here and today, Vanthiyadevan (Karthi) who knows the city well took the honours of feeding us lunch, an amazing spread. Lastly, I like the vibe here. It's always very calm and in a good way."

Trisha further elaborated on Piratti Kundavai Devi aka Kundavai and Vanthiyadevan's love track from the much-awaited sequel PS 2. She reportedly said, "The chemistry between me and Karthi in our respective roles was exciting and our love track came out really well. I'm pretty sure fans will love it."

Ponniyin Selvan 2 is gearing up for a worldwide huge theatrical release on April 28. The filmmakers are going to organize a press meet in Delhi on April 18, setting off on a whirlwind promotional tour. Chiyaan Vikram, Jayam Ravi, Aishwarya Lekshmi, Sobhita Dhulipala, and Karthi have taken part in the Coimbatore tour while Mani Ratnam, Vikram, Aishwarya Lekshmi, Karthi, and Sobhita will address the media in New Delhi.

Kundavai and Vanthiyadevan Photo Credit: Twitter

The audio of PS2 composed by AR Rahman, which marks yet another epic collaboration of Mani Ratnam and ARR, was released a few days ago to a thumping response on YouTube. However, the buzz around one of the high-budget historical films ever made in the South industry still needs to be amplified.

Trisha, on the other hand, is also part of the prestigious film Thalapathy 67 titled LEO. The film brings together the hit-on-screen combination of Vijay and Trisha after a decade. Director Lokesh Kanagaraj is helming the film.
Anupama New Promo: Rajan Shahi surely knows the secret to delivering huge hits one after another. After Bidaai and Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, Shahi again hit the bull's eye with Rupali Ganguly and Gaurav Khanna's Star Plus show Anupamaa.

Since its inception, Anupamaa has been making waves among viewers with its impressive cast, including Sudhanshu Pandey, and Madalsa Sharma among others, and an engaging storyline. It has emerged as a massive hit and tops the TRP list almost every week.

The ongoing separation track of Anuj and Anupama has made the family drama even more interesting. However, another major twist is on the horizon for the loyal fans of MaAn. Well, a new promo has been posted on the official social media handle of Star Plus in which Anuj finally leaves Mumbai.

ANUJ BACK FROM MUMBAI, GOES TO MEET ANUPAMA IN NEW PROMO

As shown in the recent episode, Ankush asks Anuj to come back for something important. In the new promo, Anuj bids goodbye to Choti Anu and finally returns to Ahmedabad. And guess what, he heads straight to Anupama's house.

Pandya Store: A Bollywood Celebrity To Grace Krish and Prerna Sangeet Ceremony? Here's What We Know

The caption of the Instagram post read, "Door reh kar bhi Anuj aur Anupama ko ho raha hai ek-dooje ka ehsaas! Kya intezaar ki ye ghadiyaan khatam karengi inki dooriyaan?"

Take a look at the promo below:

While the post hints at the reunion of MaAn, it'll be interesting to see if that's indeed happening or if the makers of Anupamaa have something else in the mind. Not just us, even fans are requesting makers in the comment section to reunite Anuj and Anupama this time.

ANUPAMAA FANS DESPERATELY WAITING FOR MAAN REUNION

Reacting to the promo, an Instagram user wrote, "Mila do indono ko tbhi serial dekhne m achha lgega."

Fahmaan Khan's Dharampatnii Going OFF-AIR In Just Five Months Due To THIS Reason? Here's What We Know

Another social media user commented, "Lollipop... promo aisa denge and dikhayenge DDP. Still hoping being optimistic... Hoping maan milan"

A third comment read, "Please ab positive ho agar break bhi ho to positive ho stories age bade."

Here are the reactions:

As reported earlier, Anupamaa makers said to have planned a small leap in the upcoming episodes. Hence, we are not too hopeful about MaAn reunion. What about you? Share youre views in the comments section below.

Keep watching this space for more updates!
Anupamaa, starring Rupali Ganguly, Sudhanshu Pandey, Gaurav Khanna in the lead, has been grabbing a lot of attention for its interesting storyline. The family drama is witnessing an intriguing track wherein Anupama (played by Rupali Ganguly) and Anuj Kapadia (played by Gaurav Khanna) have parted ways and are going through a troubled marriage. In fact, everything around them is going against them.

Each episode is coming with a new twist in the family drama leaving the fans intrigued. Adding to the twists, the new episode will witness Vanraj (played by Sudhanshu Pandey) making an attempt to comfort Anupama. This will happen after he will get to know about the chaos created by Barkha (played by Ashlesha Savant) at Anupama's mother's residence.

He will be seen making an attempt to be Anupama's comfort system and will try to instigate her about Anuj. It will be evident that Vanraj wants her to move on from Anupama and his intentions haven't been fair. However, his attempts go in vain after Anupama hits back at her. She refuses to listen to anything against Anuj and warns Vanraj about calling her late at night and without any urgency.

On the other hand, Maya will be seen trying to come close to Anuj and create a bond with him. As Anuj is down with fever, she will be seen taking care of her. However, he shuns her away. To note, Anuj has been quite upset after Barkha provoked her against Anupama which seems to have taken a toll on his health.

Meanwhile, Anupama is giving a new start to her life and has once again opened her dance academy. Besides, the promo gave a glimpse of Anuj visiting Anupama at her house and will be seen overlooking her while she was teaching dance to the girls. While Anuj Kapadia will be returning to Ahmedabad, it will be interesting to see if he will reunite with Anupama soon and resolve their differences.
Naagin 6 Twist: Tejasswi Prakash's supernatural show has managed to keep the viewers hooked on to their television sets with its drama-packed episodes. It emerged as the most successful launch of 2022, grabbing several eyeballs for the channel. While the numbers have dipped due to clash with the ongoing Indian Premiere League (IPL) 2023, the weekend drama is doing quite well compared to the daily soaps.

The creative team has been churning out new twists and turns to keep the viewers hooked on to their television sets. They have planned a new track to spice upt the ratings, promising to take the viewers on a roller-coaster ride.

Wondering what's the twist all about? Grab a bowl of popcorn and start the reading session.

NAAGIN 6 NEW PROMO

The official Twitter handle of Colors TV released a new promo where Prathana can be seen tackling her enemies, who have joined hands to wreak havoc in India. The caption for the post, "Ab Naagin aur uske ansh se shuru hoga, badle ka naya adhyay."

The promo gave the fans a glimpse of the upcoming episode where they will witness a shocking twist. Drop everything and check out the promo right here!

Ab Naagin aur uske ansh se shuru hoga, badle ka naya adhyay. 



Dekhiye #Naagin6, har Sat-Sun raat 8 baje sirf #Colors par.@itsmetejasswi pic.twitter.com/0mMJGFYlm5  ColorsTV (@ColorsTV) April 17, 2023

NAAGIN 6 NEW ENTRY

Kevina Tak, who played Avinesh Rekhi and Nimrit Kaur Ahluwalia's on-screen daughter and son in Choti Sarrdaarni, has entered Naagin 6. Guess what? The child artist is playing the role of Tejasswi Prakash's daughter in the show.

In a shocking twist, Prathana will realise that that Meher is her daughter, who was separated from her. A source exclusively told Filmibeat, "Kevina Tak's character will be seen using her powers to save girls from getting kidnapped. Prathana will witness the entire drama, realising that she is her lost daughter. Prathana and her daughter will now have to face the enemies including Mehak (Mehak Chahal) and Jeet (Manit Joura). How they will deal with the strong powers remains to be seen."

NAAGIN 6 FINALE

There were mumours in the industry that Tejasswi Prakash wrapped the shoot of Naagin 6 last week. When we contacted a source close to the show, she exclusively told Filmibeat, " The finale date of Naagin 6 is yet to be decided. The makers have planned new twists and turns for the upcoming track. Tejasswi's show is one of the most popular properties on Colors and the channel has not officially communicated the off air date to the makers."

Tejasswi Prakash's Naagin 6 which also stars Shrey Mittal and Poulomi Das is here to stay till the culmination of Indian Premiere League. The show has been entertaining the audience since the past one year and two months, creating ripples on the small screen.

Are you excited for the new track in Naagin 6? Share your thoughts with us @Filmibeat.

Stay tuned for more updates.
It wants to bring awareness about and address high cost of remittance

SINGAPORE, April 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Tranglo is proud to announce the success of our sponsorship of the 3rd Inficare Futsal Tournament in Nepal.





The tournament, organised by leading software fintech Inficare Pvt Ltd, was held at Dhanyentari Futsal, Kathmandu, Nepal, on 1 April and 8 April. It aims to raise awareness about faster and cheaper remittance services to the country.

Remittance is a major GDP contributor for Nepal, which comes close to 23%. About 56% of Nepali households rely on remittances, making lowering costs and improving accessibility a crucial goal.

Thirteen remittance companies and financial institutions participated in the tournament. The winner and 1st runner-up bagged NPR 75,000 and NPR 25,000, respectively.

Tranglo Group CEO Jacky Lee and SVP of GCC & South Asia Sohail Ahmad watched the tournament finals and presented trophies to the winners at the Aloft Kathmandu Thamel Hotel.

Jacky said supporting Tranglo's partners in Nepal to promote financial inclusion was an easy decision.

He added: "Nepal is an important corridor. While 80% of Nepali workers abroad still choose the Gulf nations and Malaysia, an increasing number of them are heading for Japan, South Korea and Europe. We are expanding our network of cash pickup services, bank and e-wallet transfers in these countries to give them more options to remit money."

Inficare CEO Anoop Sherchan thanked Tranglo for its contributions and said the futsal tournament aimed to foster strong relationships among the remittance companies in Nepal.

Tranglo helps financial institutions and businesses pay through Tranglo Connect , its proprietary cross-border payments solution. Tranglo maintains a vast network of payout channels in Nepal, such as 24/7 instant account deposits to all major banks, flexible cash pickups and direct-to-wallet transfers.

About Tranglo

Tranglo is a cross-border payment hub with a proven track record in business payment, foreign remittance and mobile payment solutions. Founded in 2008, we have offices in Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Jakarta, Dubai and London. Our global network spans over 150 countries, 600 mobile operators, 1,300 banks/wallets and 140,000 cash pickup points. Tranglo is a proud partner of Ripple, the leading enterprise blockchain solutions for global payments. We now offer enhanced cross-border payout services with an even wider coverage through RippleNet, Ripple's global payment network. To find out more, visit www.tranglo.com , LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2055284/Inficare_futsal.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/tranglo-hopes-to-kick-financial-inclusion-into-high-gear-with-futsal-sponsorship-301798746.html
SYDNEY, Australia, April 17, 2023(ASX: CXZ) ("Connexion"), a world-class developer of enterprise Software as a Service solutions for the global automotive industry.



Through the partnership, Rackspace Technology combined its expertise with the world's leading technologies to provide critical support to Connexion's software development team to not only improve its observability pipeline but also its CICV pipeline. This enabled Connexion to deploy its infrastructure's code into its production environment without manual intervention.

Headquartered in Melbourne, Australia, Connexion is known for its OnTRAC and Connexion platforms. OnTRAC is used by General Motors to manage the largest Courtesy Transportation Program in the US, and the Connexion Platform is designed with OEM-agnostic functionality. Their delivery model focuses on the ongoing KPI monitoring of the initiatives taken to realise an organisation's strategic goals.

With the extremely tight employment market for cloud technology architects and engineers, Connexion had difficulty replacing some critical roles in their technical team and spent considerable time searching the market to hire these roles in-house. After struggling to find those resources Connexion reached out to their AWS team for help on how to address this issue.

"We have a strong strategic position from which to build our industry-leading B2B software platform with one in five dealerships in the US already using our software and have ambitious plans to grow our active userbase. However, we could not find the critical technical talent to innovate at pace, allowing us to scale our proprietary SaaS solutions," said Tasso Koutsovasilis, COO of Connexion Telematics.

"Rackspace Technology's pod of experts came on board and became an extension of our team, deploying our infrastructure's code into our production environment without manual intervention. Rackspace Technology is not only helping us meet our technical goals, in a timely manner, but they are also easy to work with. It's a true collaboration," added Koutsovasilis.

"We performed a gap analysis and geared these recommendations towards maintaining Connexion's growth path and continuing to maintain best practices," said Martin Dube, Vice President, Cloud Asia Pacific & Japan at Rackspace Technology.

"The challenge was that they did not have observability of their workflow from a logging and monitoring POV, so by using AWS X-ray we were able to introduce some more fine-grained logging and monitoring into their application. With regards to their CICV pipeline, we used bit-bucket to integrate their code so they can deploy their AWS infrastructure using Terraform. Together with Rackspace Technology as an extension of the Connexion technical team, they were able to improve their application and improve their customers' user journey."

Since partnering, the Connexion technical team now has the freedom and confidence, with a pod of experts stepping into critical roles in their IT team, to work through project backlog, streamline development processes, and create more automation. Ultimately, maintaining and scaling its growth trajectory.

About Connexion Telematics Ltd

Connexion Telematics Ltdis a developer and owner of Software as a Service (SaaS) solutions for the global Automotive industry, notably its OnTRAC and Connexion platforms. OnTRAC is used by General Motors (GM) to manage the largest Courtesy Transportation Program (CTP) in the US, and the Connexion Platform is designed with OEM-agnostic functionality.

About Rackspace Technology

Rackspace Technologyis a leading end-to-end multicloud technology services company. We can design, build and operate our customers' cloud environments across all major technology platforms, irrespective of technology stack or deployment model. We partner with our customers at every stage of their cloud journey, enabling them to modernise applications, build new products and adopt innovative technologies.

Media Contact

Natalie Silva

publicrelations@rackspace.com
SYDNEY and GEORGE TOWN, Cayman Islands, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Channel Capital Cayman a company within the Channel Capital Group, today announced the expansion of its Cayman Islands team with the appointment of Martin Laufer as Fund Director.





Channel Capital Cayman provides a high quality governance service to investment funds domiciled primarily in the United States, Cayman Islands and other offshore financial centres. The business was established to leverage the deep and specialised experience of its team, and to assist with ongoing compliance with regulatory obligations through a trusted and highly personalised independent director service.

As an experienced independent director, Martin has been providing fund governance and related services to a variety of offshore investment funds since 2017. Prior to joining Channel Capital Cayman, Martin worked for the Maples Group where he served as an independent director covering a wide range of hedge fund, private equity and infrastructure strategies. From the period 2010 to 2017, Martin was a Fiduciary Fund Manager at BNY Mellon Fund Management (Cayman) Limited where he provided fiduciary and administration services to a large portfolio of Cayman unit trusts, hedge funds and funds of funds, and spent time as a senior client accountant at CIBC Bank and Trust Company (Cayman) Limited. Before moving to the Cayman Islands in 2007, Martin worked as a senior tax consultant at KPMG Argentina. Martin is a certified public accountant, a CFA charterholder and a Certified ESG Analyst (CESGA).

The Cayman Islands is a world leader in the establishment of offshore funds due to its tax-neutrality, stable economy, sophisticated banking sector and professional financial service industry. Approximately 70% of non-US domiciled alternative investment funds managed by US SEC-registered advisors are domiciled in the Cayman Islands.

"We are excited to have Martin join the business," said Mark Cook, Executive Director, Channel Capital Cayman.

"Martin's experience has given him valuable insights into the fund governance space, compliance issues and new trends such as ESG investing that are critical to managing offshore investment vehicles in a responsible manner. He will add depth to our governance platform and will work closely with our clients to help them navigate the ever-changing and complex investment and regulatory environment."

Fund Director at Channel Capital Cayman, Martin Laufer, said: "I am very pleased to be joining Mark and the rest of the Channel Capital Cayman team. It's critical to stay up to date with regulatory changes and emerging industry trends and I look forward to providing our clients with the guidance and support they need to manage and oversee their fund investments effectively."

About Channel Capital Cayman

Channel Capital Cayman is an independent directorship service provider to global hedge and private equity funds and investment vehicles primarily domiciled in the Cayman Islands. This expertise helps to strengthen governance by striking the right balance between investors, fund sponsors and other stakeholders. Our services are tailored to the needs of each board, and we provide oversight and related support services to help boards become more effective.

Our team of directors offers a comprehensive and objective service that covers the entire life cycle of a fund, from pre-launch to maturity. We provide an independent, experienced perspective to boards, offering strategic guidance while ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including anti-money laundering, tax transparency and other governance complexities.

Channel Capital Cayman is part of the Channel Capital Group - a multi-partner asset management business with staff across six global locations and US$23 billion of client assets serviced as of March 31, 2023.

https://www.channelcapital.ky





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DUBAI, UAE and BERLIN, Germany, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- According to Wingie's Data, flight ticket searches increased by 300% since the start of Ramadan





Eid-al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and millions of Muslims celebrate this religious holiday with joyous festivities and enriched feasts. On this important holiday, many opted to travel and flight searches skyrocketed before Eid-al-Fitr. Leading travel marketplace Wingie.com releases an evaluation of travel activities that fluctuated during Ramadan.

75% of Travelers booked international flights while 82% of bookings made by solo travelers

People made their travel plans early; 70% of bookings include traveling before Eid, and 30% of bookings were made to travel after the start of the holiday. Most travelers were young adults, as the median age of passengers was 34,6 and the impact of the solo travel trend can be seen from bookings since 82% of passengers were solo, 10% of carts were for two people, and 8% of them were for three or more people, meanwhile, 7,5% of Wingie users were traveling with kids or babies. The gender distribution of passengers was 62% men and 38% women.

Most bookings, precisely 78% of flight tickets, were one-way, and 22% of them were round-trip. Likewise, 75% of Wingie users opted for international flights and only 25% of them booked domestic flights. The majority of flights were booked from Cairo in Egypt, Istanbul in Turkey, Riyadh in Saudi Arabia, and Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. The most popular destinations were also Turkey, India, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Qatar, and Jordan. Finally, the most popular route was from Jeddah to Cairo, in both directions.

About Wingie Enuygun Group

Wingie Enuygun Group is a popular travel marketplace in the MENA region focusing mainly on flights operating under wingie.com, sa.wingie.com, wingie.ae and enuygun.com domains. The company offers a range of products including flights, bus tickets, hotels, and rental cars. Wingie Enuygun Group has been one of the most innovative players in the MENA online travel space, with the aim of pioneering technological developments and leading the transformation of the travel industry with the approach of thinking digitally. Wingie.com is a leading flight booking platform with its inclusion in the development of virtual interlining for flights, offering a diverse range of airline tickets and other travel content to enhance the user experience by providing the best options.

Wingie.com is available in 6 languages, employs over 300 people, and has around 165 million visitors to its platforms annually.

Contact:

Wingie

marketing@wingie.com

+1 4378883181

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DIFC-led dialogue hosts ten heads of banks and FinTechs for discussion on current financial stability and outlook

Dubai, United Arab Emirates--(Newsfile Corp. - April 18, 2023) - Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the leading international financial hub in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) region hosted the second Dubai FinTech Summit (DFS) Dialogues this week, powered by the Innovation Hub. Heads of 10 leading regional banks and FinTechs were invited to unpack the challenges facing the financial sector and deliberate on how the industry can de-risk and build resilient, sustainable financial institutions.





FinTechs and banks unite for innovation at DIFC's Dubai FinTech Summit Dialogues

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Hosting the roundtable, Mohammad AlBlooshi, Head of DIFC Innovation Hub and FinTech Hive, said, "As an industry predicated on confidence and trust, we are currently seeing the banking sector experience a time of disruption. Given global headwinds, we have an opportunity to build more resilient institutions through collaboration between banks and FinTechs."





FinTechs and banks unite for innovation at DIFC's Dubai FinTech Summit Dialogues

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Commenting on the session, he added, "Through conveners such as this roundtable and the first-ever Dubai FinTech Summit in May, we are facilitating dialogue and avenues of collaboration for long-standing financial institutions, regulators, and promising entrepreneurs to together map out how the sector can - and should - move forward."

Sanjay Sethi, Senior Managing Director, Head of Global Transaction Banking at First Abu Dhabi Bank, said, "This is an age of collaboration and co-creation where leading financial institutions and pioneering FinTechs can embark on a journey of innovative discovery together. This is especially true when we look at opportunities to expand into new geographies, improve product capabilities, grow revenues, or scale or optimise our business faster and more efficiently. Alongside this, FinTech solutions in transaction banking are growing in agility every day. As we look to the future, FAB will continue collaborating with pioneering FinTechs to deliver impactful advances across the financial industry."

Earlier this year, the UAE Central Bank announced the implementation of its Digital Dirham digital currency strategy, which promises to be a critical step in the country's payments industry, something that will deeply impact banks, FinTechs, businesses, and customers. "As such, the synergy between banks and FinTechs proves to be unavoidable as the industry inches towards a cashless economy," added AlBlooshi.

Technology: Disrupting and enhancing trust

"As a FinTech services provider, the core, as with any tech player is to build an emotional connection with the end consumer," said Raman Thiagarajan, CEO and Founder, Zenda.

As customers turn to technology, banks have been forced to adapt traditional trust-building to complement the digitisation of banking.

Anand Krishnan, Head of Technology, Emirates Investment Bank, said, "It is increasingly important banks continue to invest more in technology that not only builds but maintains trust in customers across their entire journey."

Mehdi Tazi, Chief Operating Officer, Lean Technologies, stated, "I believe customers still trust banks more than FinTechs - they are larger more established institutions. However, something FinTechs do very well is streamlining processes when helping onboard customers into these larger banks. As a result, we are seeing a marriage between FinTech and banking that enhances the customer's journey, ultimately building trust."

The onset of Web 3.0 ushers in a transformative moment for financial services, capital markets and banking, shifting customer expectations and revolutionising the sector." The total transaction value of embedded finance is said to reach USD7 tn in 2026, as per Rakesh Reddy, CEO, Cloud4u: "This is particularly useful for Platform as a Service (PaaS) providers who will strongly benefit from this growth, undeniably becoming a key industry disruptor."

Nilay Singh, Chief Executive Officer, State Bank of India, DIFC, pointed out, "We cannot ignore AI. It has to be adopted but cleverly and effectively, and this is where we need to understand what to outsource and when to collaborate."

Join the dialogue at the Dubai FinTech Summit at Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai. Tickets can be purchased at https://dubaifintechsummit.com/.

About Dubai International Financial Centre

Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is one of the world's most advanced financial centres, and the leading financial hub for the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA), which comprises 72 countries with an approximate population of 3 billion and an estimated GDP of USD 8 trillion.



With a close to 20-year track record of facilitating trade and investment flows across the MEASA region, the Centre connects these fast-growing markets with the economies of Asia, Europe and the Americas through Dubai.



DIFC is home to an internationally recognised, independent regulator and a proven judicial system with an English common law framework, as well as the region's largest financial ecosystem of over 36,000 professionals working across over 4,300 active registered companies - making up the largest and most diverse pool of industry talent in the region.

The Centre's vision is to drive the future of finance through cutting-edge technology, innovation, and partnerships.

Comprising a variety of world-renowned retail and dining venues, a dynamic art and culture scene, residential apartments, hotels and public spaces, DIFC continues to be one of Dubai's most sought-after business and lifestyle destinations.

For further information, please visit their website: difc.ae, or follow them on LinkedIn and Twitter @DIFC.

For further details about the announcement, please contact:

Nupur Aswani

Head - Media, PR and Corporate Communications, Trescon

+91 95559 15156

Content Distribution Partner

ZEX PR WIRE

info@zexprwire.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/162148
PARIS, France, April 18th, 2023, 08:30 am CET - Pharnext SA (FR001400BV89 - ALPHA) (the "Company"), an advanced late-clinical stage biopharmaceutical company developing novel therapeutics for neurodegenerative diseases with high unmet medical need, today announces its supports in the organization of the online annual conference of CMTUK, the UK's Charity dedicated to supporting people living with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT), taking place on Friday April 21st and Saturday April 22nd, 2023.

The 2023 Conference of CMTUK, the UK's Charity dedicated to Charcot-Marie-Tooth diseases (CMT) , is intended for patients and their relatives, members or non-members of CMTUK, as well as medical professionals such as general practitioners (GPs), physiotherapists, podiatrists, or occupational therapists.

This informative and educational meeting aims at sharing updates, resources, and testimonies on CMT to improve the management of and research into the disease. Each live session will include a Q&A section and the expo area will be open over lunchtime to bring opportunities to the CMT community and professional to meet, chat and find out what help is available.

Pharnext is pleased to support the organization of this CMTUK event and willing to maintain strong ties with patients and the medical community involved in the management of CMT in the UK. Pharnext's lead candidate PXT3003 is in pivotal Phase III clinical development in CMT1A, the most common subtype 1A of CMTs.

CMT UK Conference 2023 will be held online on April 21st from 2:30pm to 5:00pm BT and April 22nd from 11:00am to 6:30pm BST. More information on registration, livestreaming and record is available with this zoom LINK.

About Pharnext

Pharnext is an advanced clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing novel therapeutics for neurodegenerative diseases that currently lack curative and/or disease-modifying treatments. Pharnext has two lead products in clinical development. PXT3003 completed an international Phase III trial with positive topline results for the treatment of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 1A ('CMT1A') and benefits from orphan drug status in Europe and the United States. An international pivotal Phase III study of PXT3003 in CMT1A, the PREMIER trial, is currently ongoing. PXT864 has generated encouraging Phase II results in Alzheimer's disease and will be advanced through partnerships. Both of Pharnext's lead assets originated from the Pleotherapy R&D approach. Pharnext draws the attention of investors to the financial and other risk factors detailed in its financial reports. More information can be found at www.pharnext.com.

Pharnext is listed on the Euronext Growth Stock Exchange in Paris (ISIN code: FR001400BV89).

Contacts

Relations Presse Financiere

ACTUS finance & communication

Deborah Schwartz

dschwartz@actus.fr

+33 (0)1 53 67 36 35 Relation Investisseurs

ACTUS finance & communication

Jerome Fabreguettes Leib

pharnext@actus.fr

+33 (0)1 53 67 36 78

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SUSE delivers new milestones in performance, stability & security with the release of Rancher 2.7.2, with extensibility enhancements and an improved security posture to foster eco-system adoption

Latest Rancher Prime, SUSE's commercial enterprise subscription, innovations accelerate customer time-to-value with enhancements including access to SUSE Collective's curated knowledgebase and SLA-backed support for automated policy & OS management

SUSE demonstrates its continued commitment to the cloud native community with the re-launch of Rancher Academy and major updates to open-source projects

AMSTERDAM, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- SUSE, a global leader in innovative, reliable and secure enterprise-grade open source solutions, today announced the release of Rancher 2.7.2. The latest update to the most widely adopted Kubernetes management platform includes extensibility enhancements designed to foster even stronger eco-system adoption. SUSE also expanded the enterprise-grade value of its open source commercial subscription for Rancher with the latest release of Rancher Prime, as well as delivered updates to its popular open source projects like Rancher Desktop, and re-launched its free training portal, Rancher Academy.





"As the Kubernetes ecosystem expands and becomes more complex, innovation, interoperability, and simplicity have never been more important. Our free-to-use Rancher UI extension framework empowers users and independent software vendors (ISVs) to create customized user experiences, significantly enhancing the operationalization of their entire Kubernetes environment," said Peter Smails, General Manager of Enterprise Container Management at SUSE.

Smails believes that Rancher's UI extension framework will be especially popular with SUSE's global network of technology partners. The SUSE One Partner Program now incorporates the 'Tested & Certified - Rancher Extension' certification, which allows partners to build and host extensions from within Rancher's application catalog and validate its reliability through this new certification criteria. The updated program encourages more collaboration and interoperability across the Rancher partner ecosystem and is backed by support from the Rancher Prime subscription.

Customizing the Kubernetes experience for Rancher users

SUSE continues to extend its leadership position as the world's most widely deployed Kubernetes management platform with the release of Rancher 2.7.2. The new Rancher UI extension framework decouples the UI functionality from Rancher Manager and provides users with the ability to independently extend and enhance the Rancher UI. This gives users the capability to build on top of the Rancher platform and better integrate Rancher into their environments by building custom, peer-developed or Rancher-developed UI extensions.

Available today are three Rancher-developed extensions, including:

Kubewarden Extension, which delivers a comprehensive way to manage the lifecycle of Kubernetes policies across Rancher clusters.

Elemental Extension, which provides operators with the ability to manage their cloud-native OS and Edge devices from within the Rancher platform.

Harvester Extension, which helps operators load their virtualized Harvester cluster into Rancher to easily manage and inspect.

SUSE's strategy for Rancher is to provide the core power of hybrid and multi-cloud multi-cluster management, and for extension providers to deliver a highly customized user experience to their customers within the same pane of glass.

Maintaining momentum across innovation projects

SUSE's commitment to open source innovation does not stop with Rancher. SUSE continues to use its extensive portfolio of open source projects as an innovation sandbox, with recent updates including:

Rancher Desktop 1.8 now includes configurable application behaviors such as auto-start login and all applications settings configurable via the command line tool rdctl and new experimental updates.

Kubewarden 1.6.0 now allows DevSecOps teams to write Policy as Code using both traditional programming languages and domain specific languages.

Opni 0.9 has several observability feature updates as it approaches its planned GA later in the year.

S3GW (S3 Gateway) 0.14.0 has new features such as lifecycle management, object locking and holds, and UI improvements.

Epinio 1.7 now has a UI with Dex integration, the identity service that uses OpenID Connect to drive authentication for other apps, and SUSE's S3GW.

Continued investment in community education

Rancher Academy, the free educational platform designed to help users get started with Rancher and Kubernetes, is back with more courses covering topics such as Kubernetes, Container Fundamentals, Rancher Multi-cluster Management, Container Security, and more.

"Cloud-native expertise remains one of the biggest inhibitors to Kubernetes' adoption," said Tom Callway, VP Product Marketing & Community at SUSE. "By re-launching Rancher Academy, our aim is to help demystify the complexities of cloud-native platforms like Kubernetes and break down the barriers faced by users when deploying new workloads. With Rancher Academy, the Rancher users now have a free, high quality educational resource to increase their Kubernetes knowledge, helping users build faster and more securely."

Enhancing performance and resiliency for Rancher Prime customers

Following Rancher Prime's availability in December 2022, SUSE added new value-added components to the enterprise commercial subscription designed to help enterprise customers improve performance and resiliency of their enterprise-grade production clusters.

Through the latest Rancher Prime capabilities, customers will be able to:

Experience trusted delivery and extensibility: In conjunction with a trusted, private registry delivery mechanism, the release of the new UI extension framework in Rancher v2.7.2 allows Rancher Prime customers to get SLA-backed support for Policy & OS Management natively within the Rancher platform through Kubewarden and Elemental extensions.

In conjunction with a trusted, private registry delivery mechanism, the release of the new UI extension framework in Rancher v2.7.2 allows Rancher Prime customers to get SLA-backed support for Policy & OS Management natively within the Rancher platform through Kubewarden and Elemental extensions. Solve business challenges with more efficiency. Prime subscribers have access to SUSE's customer engagement platform SUSE Collective, which now includes access to peers, exclusive roadmap materials, reference architectures, operating at scale documentation, and white glove on demand start-up guides.

For more information about Rancher by SUSE, stop by booth D1 at KubeCon Europe or visit, www.rancher.com.

About SUSE

SUSE is a global leader in innovative, reliable and secure enterprise-grade open source solutions, relied upon by more than 60% of the Fortune 500 to power their mission-critical workloads. We specialize in Business-critical Linux, Enterprise Container Management and Edge solutions, and collaborate with partners and communities to empower our customers to innovate everywhere - from the data center, to the cloud, to the edge and beyond.

SUSE puts the "open" back in open source, giving customers the agility to tackle innovation challenges today and the freedom to evolve their strategy and solutions tomorrow. The company employs more than 2,000 people globally. SUSE is listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange.

Forward-Looking Statements

Any statements in this press release about future expectations, plans and prospects for the company, including statements containing the words "aims," "targets," "will," "believes," "anticipates," "plans," "expects," and similar expressions, may constitute forward-looking statements and should be read with caution. Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements as a result of various important factors, including competitive landscape, development of customer deals, reliance upon customer relationships, management of growth and acquisitions, the possibility of undetected software issues, the risks of impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic and economic downturns, pricing pressures and the viability of the Internet. In addition, any forward-looking statements included herein represent views as of the date of this press release and these views could change. The Company does not have any obligation to update its forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to change and should not be relied upon as representing the Company's views as of any date other than the date of this press releases.

Copyright 2023 SUSE LLC. All rights reserved. SUSE and the SUSE logo are registered trademarks of SUSE LLC in the United States and other countries. All third-party trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Media Contact:

Natalie Paffmann

natalie.kelley@suse.com

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New investors, Andera Partners and Earlybird Venture Capital, join existing investor, Pureos Bioventures raising an additional EUR 22.75 million

Funds will be used to advance clinical pipeline and further build Ariceum Therapeutics

Olivier Litzka from Andera Partners and Christoph Massner from Earlybird Venture Capital to join the Ariceum non-executive Board of Directors

BERLIN, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Ariceum Therapeutics (Ariceum), a private biotech company developing radiopharmaceutical products for the diagnosis and treatment of certain hard-to-treat cancers, today announces the successful completion of a Series A extension financing, raising a further EUR 22.75 million, following the EUR 25 million Series A financing announced in June 2022. The financing was co-led by new investors Andera Partners and Earlybird Venture Capital, with participation from existing investor Pureos Bioventures, now doubling its original investment in the Company. As part of the investment, Olivier Litzka, Partner at Andera Partners, and Christoph Massner, Principal at Earlybird, will join the Ariceum Board of Directors.

Ariceum intends to use the proceeds from the financing to advance its clinical pipeline and to further build the Company focusing on its lead asset and proprietary peptide derivative, Satoreotide, as well as building a pipeline of further projects.

Satoreotide is a radiopharmaceutical drug and an antagonist of the somatostatin type 2 (SST2) receptor which is overexpressed in many cancers, including certain neuroendocrine and other aggressive, hard-to-treat cancers with poor prognoses such as small cell lung cancer (SCLC). Ariceum aims to use satoreotide as a 'theranostic' for both the diagnosis and treatment of tumours expressing the SST2 receptor. Satoreotide is in early clinical development and, as of today, has been administered to more than 100 patients including more than 150 therapeutic administrations in different indications.

Manfred Rudiger, PhD, Chief Executive Officer of Ariceum Therapeutics, said: "As we continue to make promising progress at Ariceum, the new funds will allow us to advance our clinical pipeline of diagnosis, monitoring and precision treatments to improve the lives of those facing very challenging cancers. The additional investment is a strong endorsement of our targeted radiotherapy product and reflects the opportunity that radiopharmaceutical drugs offer in visualizing and treating cancer. We are very pleased to welcome both Andera Partners and Earlybird Venture Capital to our investment syndicate and would like to thank our existing investors for their continued support."

Olivier Litzka, PhD, Partner of Andera Partners, remarked: "At Andera we have been following the radiopharmaceuticals space for some time, looking for an opportunity to support a compelling project. As a result, we are now very happy to be able to back the talented and experienced team of Ariceum with a first clinical project centered around a meaningful disease application in Small Cell Lung Cancer. It is great to support the company in its bold ambition to build a pipeline of radiopharma projects through deals and partnerships. We are also joining an already powerful board of experts and strong European VCs. Altogether, we believe these are solid grounds to build a leading biotech company in the radiopharmaceuticals field."

Christoph Massner, PhD, Principal of Earlybird Venture Capital, commented: "We are delighted to support Ariceum as it advances its proprietary clinical programs to address aggressive cancers with a poor prognosis. Earlybird is especially excited about Ariceum's ability to stratify patients for treatment via its theranostics approach. This will provide the best possible patient outcomes and attractive health economics. I look forward to working with Ariceum's experienced management team and strong investor base as it enters its next development stage."

About Ariceum Therapeutics

Ariceum Therapeutics (Ariceum) is a private, clinical stage radiopharmaceutical company focused on the diagnosis and precision treatment of certain neuroendocrine and other aggressive, hard-to-treat cancers. The name Ariceum is an anagram of 'Marie Curie' whose discovery of radium and polonium have been huge contributions to finding treatments for cancer. Ariceum's lead targeted systemic radiopharmaceutical product, 177Lu-satoreotide tetraxetan ("satoreotide") is an antagonist of the somatostatin type 2 (SST2) receptor which is overexpressed in neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) and some aggressive cancers such as small cell lung cancer (SCLC), all of which have few treatment options and poor prognosis. Satoreotide is being developed as a 'theranostic' pair for the combined diagnosis and targeted radionuclide treatment of these tumours.

Ariceum Therapeutics, launched in 2021, acquiring all rights from Ipsen. Ipsen remains a shareholder in the Company. Ariceum is headquartered in Berlin, with operations in Germany, Australia and Switzerland and activities currently across Europe, North America and Australia.

Ariceum is led by a highly experienced management team and supported by specialist investors including EQT Life Sciences (formerly LSP), HealthCap, Pureos Bioventures, Andera Partners and Earlybird Venture Capital. For further information, please visit www.ariceum-therapeutics.com

About Andera Partners

Created over 20 years ago, Andera Partners is a major player in private company investments in France and internationally. Its teams manage over 3.8 billion in investments in life sciences (Andera Life Sciences), growth and buyout capital (Andera MidCap, Andera Expansion, Andera Croissance, Andera Co-Invest), sponsorless transactions (Andera Acto) and ecological transition (Andera Infra).

Based in Paris, with offices in Antwerp, Milan, and Munich, Andera Partners is wholly owned by its teams, which count nearly 100 professionals, of which 60 are investment professionals. It is structured as a partnership and managed by a board of 12 partners. Responsible and committed, the management company regularly forms partnerships with non-profit sector entities and takes concrete action in the fight against global warming.

Andera's 15-person life sciences team brings together extensive experience in the life sciences industry, private equity and venture capital. Active since 2000, the team has raised over 1.1 billion through its BioDiscovery family of funds and is currently investing from its new BioDiscovery 6 fund. Since inception, the BioDiscovery funds have invested in more than 75 European and U.S. biotech and medtech companies. Further information: www.anderapartners.com.

About Earlybird Venture Capital

Earlybird Venture Capital focuses on European technology companies. Founded in 1997, Earlybird identifies and backs exceptional early-stage companies on a pan-European basis and supports them through their growth and development phases - providing financial resources, strategic support, plus access to an international network and capital markets. Earlybird invests out of a family of independently-managed funds. Flagship funds with early-stage focus include Digital West (Western Europe), Digital East (Emerging Europe), and Health. Newer funds Earlybird-X (pre-seed in Western Europe & university spinoffs) and Growth Opportunities (a pan-Earlybird growth fund) offer even more agility. With EUR 2 billion under management across all fund streams, 9 IPOs, and 31 trade sales, Earlybird is one of Europe's most established and active venture capital firms. More information on www.earlybird.com, LinkedIn and Twitter.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/ariceum-therapeutics-announces-extension-of-series-a-financing-to-eur-47-75m-to-advance-its-next-generation-radiopharmaceutical-clinical-pipeline-301799202.html
Regulatory News:

Exclusive Networks (Paris:EXN):

Nathalie Lomon, Senior Executive VP, Chief Financial Officer of Groupe SEB, was co-opted as a new member of the Board of Directors on 17 April 2023, replacing Nathalie Buhnemann as stated in the press release dated 18 January 2023. Nathalie Lomon is also appointed as Chairwoman of the Audit Committee.

The Board of Directors has also decided to propose to the shareholders at the next General Meeting on 8 June 2023, the appointment of Paul-Philippe Bernier as a new member of the Board of Directors.

Co-option of Nathalie Lomon

Nathalie Lomon is Senior Executive VP, Chief Financial Officer of Groupe SEB. A graduate of Neoma Business School, Nathalie Lomon began her career in auditing at Mazars and in the General Inspection department of BNP Paribas. In 2002, she joined Pechiney where she held various financial and management positions. Between 2010 and 2019, Nathalie Lomon has been with Ingenico notably as Group Chief Financial Officer and a member of the Executive Committee. She has also been a Director of Coface since 2017 and President of the Risks Committee of Coface since 2018.

The ratification of Nathalie Lomon's cooptation will be proposed to the shareholders at the next General Meeting of Shareholders on 8 June 2023.

Proposal of appointment of Paul-Philippe Bernier

Paul-Philippe Bernier is a Director and member of the Management Committee of the Large Cap direct investment team of Bpifrance Investissement since 2022. He has more than 15 years of experience in structured financing and equity investment.

He joined Bpifrance Investissement in 2019 as an Investment Director. He has participated to many investments (or reinvestments) for Bpifrance of which the investments in the following listed and unlisted companies: Elis, Exclusive Networks, EssilorLuxottica, SPIE, SRS, Mediawan and Sulo.

Before joining Bpifrance, Paul-Philippe was Director within the structured finance team of Societe Generale CIB for 12 years and was based in Paris and in London. He was specialised in the TMT sector from 2014 to 2019. For Societe Generale, Paul-Philippe has completed more than 20 financing operations as Mandated Lead Arranger and Bookrunner, in Europe and Africa, for the account of Private Equity funds and listed corporates. Paul-Philippe started his career as financial auditor for Mazars. Paul-Philippe Bernier is a graduate of Neoma Business School.

About Exclusive Networks

Exclusive Networks (EXN) is a global cybersecurity specialist that provides partners and end-customers with a wide range of services and product portfolios via proven routes to market. With offices in over 45 countries and the ability to serve customers in over 170 countries, we combine a local perspective with the scale and delivery of a single global organisation.

Our best-in-class vendor portfolio is carefully curated with all leading industry players. Our services range from managed security to specialist technical accreditation and training and capitalize on rapidly evolving technologies and changing business models. For more information visit www.exclusive-networks.com.

DISCLAIMER

This press release may contain forward-looking statements. Such statements may include projections, estimates, assumptions, statements regarding plans, objectives, intentions and/or expectations with respect to future financial results, events, operations and services and product development, as well as statements, regarding future performance or events. Forward-looking statements are generally identified by the words "expects", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "plans", "projects", "may", "would" "should" or the negatives of these terms and similar expressions. Although Exclusive Network's management currently believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, investors are cautioned that forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties (including, without limitation, risks identified in Exclusive Networks' Registration Document available on Exclusive Networks' website), because they relate to future events and depend on future circumstances that may or may not occur and may be different from those anticipated, many of which are difficult to predict and generally beyond the control of Exclusive Networks. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those expressed in, implied by or projected by forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not intended to and do not give any assurances or comfort as to future events or results. Other than as required by applicable law, Exclusive Networks does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement.

This press release does not contain or constitute an offer of securities for sale or an invitation or inducement to invest in securities in France, the United States or any other jurisdiction.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005691/en/

Contacts:

EXCLUSIVE NETWORKS CONTACTS

Investors Analysts

Hacene Boumendjel

Head of Investor Relations

ir@exclusive-networks.com

Media

FTI Consulting

Emily Oliver Tom Blundell

+33 (0)1 47 03 68 19

exclusivenetworks@fticonsulting.com
18 April 2023

Not for distribution, directly or indirectly, in or into the United States or any jurisdiction in which such distribution would be unlawful.

Kreditanstalt fur Wiederaufbau/ISIN DE000A30V9M4

Pre-stabilisation Period Announcement

Landesbank Baden-Wurttemberg (contact: Torsten Zittlau; telephone: +49 711 74640) hereby gives notice, as Stabilisation Coordinator, that the Stabilisation Manager(s) named below may stabilise the offer of the following securities in accordance with Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052 under the Market Abuse Regulation (EU/596/2014).

Securities

Issuer: Kreditanstalt fur Wiederaufbau (Aaa/AAA/AAA by Moody's, S&P & Scope) Guarantor(s) (if any): Federal Republic of Germany Aggregate nominal amount: EUR Benchmark Description: 07 June 2033 EUR BMK, RegS, Bearer, Off the Issuer's EMTN Programme

Listing: Frankfurt Stock Exchange (regulated market) Offer price: [XX.XXX] Other offer terms: NA

Stabilisation:

Stabilisation Manager(s): Barclays, Bank of America, LBBW and Morgan Stanley Stabilisation period expected to start on: 18 April 2023 Stabilisation period expected to end no later than: 30 days after the proposed issue date of the securities Existence, maximum size and conditions of use of over?allotment facility: The Stabilisation Manager(s) may over?allot the securities to the extent permitted in accordance with applicable law Stabilisation trading venue(s): Over the counter (OTC)

In connection with the offer of the above securities, the Stabilisation Manager(s) may over?allot the securities or effect transactions with a view to supporting the market price of the securities during the stabilisation period at a level higher than that which might otherwise prevail. However, stabilisation may not necessarily occur and any stabilisation action, if begun, may cease at any time. Any stabilisation action or over?allotment shall be conducted in accordance with all applicable laws and rules.

This announcement is for information purposes only and does not constitute an invitation or offer to underwrite, subscribe for or otherwise acquire or dispose of any securities of the Issuer in any jurisdiction.

This announcement and the offer of the securities to which it relates are only addressed to and directed at persons outside the United Kingdom and persons in the United Kingdom who have professional experience in matters related to investments or who are high net worth persons within Article 12(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 and must not be acted on or relied on by other persons in the United Kingdom.

If and to the extent that this announcement is communicated in, or the offer of the securities to which it relates is made in, any EEA Member State before the publication of a prospectus in relation to the securities which has been approved by the competent authority in that Member State in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 (the "Prospectus Regulation") (or which has been approved by a competent authority in another Member State and notified to the competent authority that Member State in accordance with the Prospectus Regulation), this announcement and the offer are only addressed to and directed at persons in that Member State who are qualified investors within the meaning of the Prospectus Regulation (or who are other persons to whom the offer may lawfully be addressed) and must not be acted on or relied on by other persons in that Member State.

This announcement is not an offer of securities for sale into the United States. The securities have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933 and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration. There will be no public offer of securities in the United States.
LONDON, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- NeoPhore Limited, a small molecule neoantigen immuno-oncology company, today announces that it has signed a strategic collaboration agreement with Professor Chris Lord's lab at The Institute of Cancer Research, London. The collaboration will use NeoPhore's proprietary small molecule inhibitors of DNA mismatch repair ('MMR') to investigate single agent activity against tumours with defined genetic backgrounds.

Building on the seminal discoveries and ongoing research of its scientific founders and collaborators, NeoPhore is developing a pipeline targeting novel proteins in the DNA mismatch repair pathway to treat cancer. The Company's first-in-class MMR modulators induce neoantigen expression and increase immunogenicity in solid tumours that become exquisitely sensitive to immunotherapy.

Professor Chris Lord is Professor of Cancer Genomics and Deputy Head of the Division of Breast Cancer Research at The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR), as well as the Deputy Leader of the Breast Cancer Now Toby Robins Research Centre and the Cancer Research UK Gene Function Team at the ICR.

Professor Chris Lord, Lead Researcher on the project from the ICR, said: "We are excited about this new collaboration with NeoPhore. Identifying new ways of treating cancer is central to much of what we do here at the ICR and this project will focus on exactly that. Our hope is that by working with NeoPhore, we can find new vulnerabilities in cancer cells that can be targeted by drugs that NeoPhore has discovered."

Dr. Matthew Baker, Chief Executive Officer of NeoPhore, stated: "We are excited to collaborate with Prof. Chris Lord who is a prominent and respected researcher in the field. Access to his team's scientific expertise will allow us to investigate new mechanisms of action of the MMR pathway in a variety of solid tumours. We believe that this impactful collaboration has the potential to broaden the use of MMR inhibitors beyond neoantigen generation. Ultimately the results of the collaboration have the potential to provide significant patient benefit in a variety of solid tumour indications."

This is the 4th collaboration agreement NeoPhore has signed since 2017, having entered collaborations with University of Turin, St George's University of London and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC).

About NeoPhore Ltd

NeoPhore, based in London, UK is focused on the discovery and development of novel small molecule therapies to treat cancer through stimulation of the immune system. Generation of cancer neoantigens in tumours can be exploited by the patients' immune system to overcome natural defence mechanisms in cancer. The Company's approach targets the DNA mismatch repair (MMR) pathway, which has been proven to promote neoantigen creation and subsequent immunity against numerous cancers. Using these insights, NeoPhore aims to generate next-generation immuno-oncology therapeutics to improve clinical outcomes for cancer patients. NeoPhore was spun-out of the University of Turin and PhoreMost Ltd by the CRT Pioneer Fund.

For more information, please visit www.neophore.com

About The Institute of Cancer Research

The Institute of Cancer Research, London, is an independent research institute based across two London sites: one in Chelsea in the heart of the UK capital, and one in Sutton, 30 minutes from Gatwick international airport. A member institution of the University of London, we have an outstanding record of achievement dating back more than 100 years.

Around 800 scientists work at The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) across the full spectrum of cancer research, from basic cancer biology to clinical trials. We ranked second in REF 2021, the UK government's most recent comprehensive assessment of research quality, for overall research quality and impact, and first in biological sciences.

The ICR is also one of the world's most successful academic institutions in industry. Researchers in our Centre for Cancer Drug Discovery, now based in a state-of-the-art, 75m new building in Sutton, have discovered 21 drug candidates since 2005, of which 13 have progressed into clinical trials, in collaboration with industry partners. The blockbuster drug abiraterone (Zytiga) was discovered and initially developed at the ICR, and ICR science also underpinned the development of the leading PARP inhibitor olaparib (Lynparza) in BRCA-mutant cancers.

The ICR and its hospital partner The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust are together ranked in the top four centres for cancer research and treatment worldwide, and their joint Drug Development Unit is the leading oncology-focused phase I trial unit in the UK. The ICR is also a provider of higher education of international distinction through its postgraduate degree programmes.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/neophore-signs-research-collaboration-with-the-institute-of-cancer-research-london-301799121.html
Matrixport's Prime Brokerage clients can leverage all-in-one analytics dashboard by SignalPlus to generate alpha through options

SINGAPORE, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Matrixport, a global digital assets financial services provider, and SignalPlus, a leading options analytics and advanced trading software platform, announces a flagship partnership to provide Matrixport Prime clients access to SignalPlus' all-in-one dashboard via Matrixport Prime account credentials.





This new partnership is a great opportunity for institutional investors to generate sustainable yield through harvesting market volatility with the use of derivatives, such as options.

Daniel Egloff, Head of Prime Brokerage, Matrixport, said, "We are seeing increasing institutional adoption of crypto options. Matrixport Prime Brokerage clients, such as crypto hedge fund and asset managers, will benefit from a sophisticated options trading platform and market analytics, enabling them to devise complex trading strategies and take full advantage of the crypto derivatives market. "

SignalPlus provides all the robust analytics and advanced trading functionalities which are essential to successfully harvesting alpha with crypto options.

Chris Yu, the CEO and co-founder of SignalPlus said, "We have always believed in the potential of the crypto options market and that professional investors require advanced and sophisticated tools to navigate this rapidly evolving landscape. That is why we are thrilled to announce our collaboration with Matrixport, a company that shares our vision for the future of cryptocurrency derivatives. We believe that this collaboration will bring immense value to both of our client sets."

The partnership comes as the amount of Open Interest in bitcoin options contracts surpasses that held in Futures contracts for the first time according to Glassnode.

About Matrixport

Matrixport is one of the world's largest and most trusted digital assets financial services ecosystem. The company's services include prime brokerage, Cactus Custody, spot OTC, fixed income, structured products, lending as well as asset management. Matrixport serves individuals as well as over 800 institutions across Asia and Europe.

Matrixport Prime Brokerage provides access to prominent exchanges with first-rate fee tiers, a broad range of tokens for leveraged borrowing, and a comprehensive online platform to manage the entire lifecycle of your lending activities at a competitive rate.

For more information, please visit www.matrixport.com

About SignalPlus

SignalPlus is a venture-backed technology company that has produced an industry-leading crypto options analytics and software platform. Led by a veteran team of builders from GS/Alibaba/Bytedance, SignalPlus has established strong and unique partnerships with crypto builders, traditional institutions, and technology companies. Our core team individually bring nearly two-decades of first-hand experience in traditional finance and digital assets, offering a diversity of domain expertise that has been carefully crafted into our industry leading products.

SignalPlus helps users to turn ideas into trades. All functionalities such as trade execution, multi-venue connectivity, PnL attribution, and scenario analysis are accessible through a single user-friendly interface. The analytics module supports users to time trade execution. Order algorithms can balance multi-leg structures and minimise slippage costs. With SignalPlus, the investor can focus on trading strategy, without having to worry about the tech.

For more information, please visit https://www.signalplus.com/

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1560145/matrixport_logo_blue_white_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/matrixport-partners-with-signalplus-to-provide-actionable-market-analytics-and-risk-management-for-options-trading-301798651.html
PRAGUE, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Zentiva is pleased to announce the appointment of Steffen Saltofte to the role of Chief Executive Officer (CEO), succeeding Nick Haggar who moves to the Zentiva Advisory Committee as a non-executive member. Steffen joins as CEO with effect from 2ndMay 2023.

Steffen Saltofte joins from Acino, where he was CEO from 2018 until 2022. He brings a wealth of strategic and operational experience from large multinationals and fast growing companies, and will lead the further acceleration of Zentiva. Steffen will be based in Prague.

Steffen Saltofte commented: "I am excited to be joining Zentiva, a company with a strong track record in business growth and customer focus. Together we will continue this growth story, bringing high-quality affordable medicines to people across Europe and beyond. Health and access to medicines are more important than ever and I am fully committed to Zentiva's mission."

The Zentiva Advisory Committee, shareholders and employees wish to thank Nick Haggar for his leadership during the last four years as CEO. Nick's vision, inspiration and drive to create a high performing, inclusive and sustainable European pharmaceutical company has helped Zentiva double in size over the last four years. Nick will join the Zentiva Advisory Committee and is excited to support future development of the Company as a non-executive.

More than 100 million people trust Zentiva medicines to help them with their medical conditions and healthcare every year.

About Zentiva

Zentiva is a producer of high-quality and affordable medicines serving patients in Europe and beyond. With a dedicated team of more than 4,800 people and a network of production sites - including flagship sites in Prague, Bucharest, and Ankleshwar - Zentiva strives to be the champion of branded and generic medicines in Europe to better support people's daily healthcare needs.

More than ever, people need better access to high-quality affordable medicines and healthcare. We work in partnership with physicians, pharmacists, wholesalers, regulators, and governments to provide the everyday solutions that we all depend on.

More information can be found at www.zentiva.com.

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2055851/Steffen_Saltofte.jpg

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1757203/ZENTIVA_Logo.jpg

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/steffen-saltofte-appointed-as-ceo-of-zentiva-301799095.html
JAKARTA, Indonesia, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Paragon Technology and Innovation (Paragon Corp), the parent company of renowned halal skincare brand for women Wardah, and Kahf for men, is excited to announce a collaboration with Garuda Indonesia Airlines to enhance the experience of Umrah and Hajj pilgrims. Along with this partnership, the company is introducing a skincare special for Umrah & Hajj Packages, designed for those embarking on the sacred journey.





The exclusive Umrah & Hajj Packages are available at www.garudashop.garuda-indonesia.com

Carrying 400 pilgrims directly from Jakarta to Jeddah, Garuda Indonesia's Boeing 777 with flight number GA 980 took off on April 17, 2023. During the flight, the female passengers received an exclusive collaboration product, 'Journey of Soul' Umrah & Hajj package by Wardah and Kahf's 'Towards New Beginning' Umrah and Hajj package for the male passengers. Wardah's The Journey of Soul package comprises The Head-to-Toe Cleanser, Sun Shield, Intensive Moisturizer, Anti-Perspirant Deodorant, and Multipurpose Sanitizer. While the Towards New Beginning package by Kahf includes Refreshing Hair & Body Wash, Face Wash, Face & Body Sunscreen, Anti-Perspirant Deodorant, and Multipurpose Moisturizing Balm. Both packages will also contain a Zam-zam Spray Bottle, a guidebook for Umrah and Hajj, and each package will come in a pouch or a drawstring bag to carry conveniently.

These non-alcohol and non-fragrance products of Wardah and Kahf are carefully curated with natural ingredients and improved formulations to maintain moisturized, clean, and healthy skin in extreme weather and climate, ensuring the pilgrims comfortably and confidently embark on their PerjalananBerkahPenuhMakna (meaningful journey).

Harman Subakat, CEO of Paragon Corp, said, "We are delighted to offer these Umrah & Hajj Packages to support and bring comfort during their pilgrimage. We want our consumers to have the best experience during their sacred, spiritual journey and rest assured that their skincare needs are cared for by a trusted brand."

As a national flag carrier, Garuda Indonesia consistently strives to support local products and therefore highly appreciates the partnership, says Irfan Setiaputra, Director of Garuda Indonesia, "This collaboration with Paragon is part of our commitment to support local industries and accelerate the national economy recovery by providing a platform to introduce the local halal-certified products, especially for our valued customers."

For more information about Paragon Corp and its brand portfolio, visit www.paragon-innovation.com.

Media Contact:

Wilda Arginisa

Public Relations Executive

wilda.arginisa@paracorpgroup.com

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2056637/DSC09811_cropped.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/wardah-and-kahf-partner-with-garuda-indonesia-airlines-introducing-exclusive-umrah--hajj-packages-301800049.html
TSB Bank plc has agreed an extended partnership with debt resolution system supplier Flexys Solutions. Following a successful project to provide a digital solution for TSB customers to manage Bounce Back Loan Scheme (BBLS) repayments and Pay As You Grow (PAYG) options, Flexys will continue working with TSB to deliver ongoing support to business customers.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005152/en/

TSB and Flexys Solutions Extend Technology partnership (Graphic: Business Wire)

BBLS formed the backbone of support for British businesses that saw their revenue disrupted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Figures show that 47bn of loans were made available to 1.67m SMEs across the UK. BBLS had a six-year fixed term with the option to extend up to ten years. The digital solution supplied by Flexys enables TSB customers to conveniently manage their loan over the full term, helping them make informed decisions about which options, if any, are appropriate for them.

Flexys CEO, James Hill, said:

"It has been rewarding to work with the TSB team to provide their customers with a highly responsive and easy-to-use digital journey to manage their BBLS loans. This agreement continues the spirit of cooperation and builds on the mutual objective of delivering the very best service to customers when they need it most."

Adeel Hyder, Business Banking Director at TSB shared, "We are delighted to continue our partnership with Flexys to provide our customers with what they have told us is an easy to understand and use solution. We worked together at pace with Flexys to be the first bank to bring this innovative way to manage the government's Pay As You Grow options on Bounce Back Loans to our customers."

About TSB Bank plc

TSB is a retail bank with a trusted customer brand, a heritage stretching back to the start of the savings bank movement 200 years ago, and a committed workforce that offer full-service banking to more than five million customers. It operates on a modern banking platform and serves customers through digital channels, over the phone and in branches across the UK.

TSB is part of the Spanish banking group Sabadell.

About Flexys Solutions

Flexys is a specialist debt management solution provider. Founded in 2016, it supplies the credit industry with innovative digital-first solutions built on highly flexible, extensible and secure cloud-native technology. With clients across the banking, utility and financial services sectors, Flexys is changing the way organisations engage with customers, empowering them to anticipate and rapidly respond to market demands, regulatory change and customer preferences.

www.flexys.com

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005152/en/

Contacts:

Flexys:

sue.hickman@flexys.com

Mobile: +44 (0)7913 182146
Technip Energies (PARIS:TE) launches ESOP 2023, an employee share offering proposed to circa 12,000 eligible employees in 19 countries, with the objective of sharing the long-term value creation of the Group with employees.

The ESOP 2023 Offer is implemented in Australia, China, Colombia, Germany, France, India, Italy, Kuwait, Malaysia, Mozambique, Netherlands, Norway, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and United States. Approximately 90% of the Group's workforce will have the opportunity to participate.

The offer is proposed as part of Technip Energies' Group Savings Plan (PEG) and International Group Savings Plan (PEGI). It will be conducted via a share capital increase, up to the maximum of 1.5% of the share capital, within the limit of the total subscription amount of 30 million. New shares will bear immediate dividends entitlement and will be fully assimilated to existing shares as from their issuance (ISIN code: NL0014559478 TE).

Terms of the offering

Eligible employees will have the possibility to subscribe to the following formula:

" ESOP Classic ", where the subscriber benefits from a discounted price and a matching contribution.

", where the subscriber benefits from a discounted price and a matching contribution. "ESOP Leverage", where the subscriber benefits from the protection of the personal contribution, and the greater of either (i) a guaranteed minimum return over the investment period, or (ii) a multiple of the protected average increase in the Technip Energies share price.

The subscription price of shares will be equal to the arithmetic average of the volume-weighted average prices (VWAP) of the Technip Energies share on Euronext Paris recorded over the 20 trading days preceding the date of the Chief Executive Officer's decision setting the opening date of the subscription/revocation period, less a discount of 20%.

Shares will be subject to a lock-up period of 5 years, subject to cases of authorized early release events. Shares will be subscribed through a company mutual fund (FCPE) or, in certain countries, directly by employees.

Voting rights relating to shares held in the "T.EN Shares France" and "T.EN Shares International" FCPEs following subscriptions in the "ESOP Classic" and "ESOP Leverage" formulaswill be exercised by Supervisory Boards of the FCPEs.

Voting rights relating to securities held directly following subscriptions in the "ESOP Leverage" formula for certain countries of the scope as well as for shares issued for the purposes of hedging operations will be exercised by the subscribers.

The "ESOP Leverage"offering implies implementation, management and settlement of hedging transactions by the bank that structures this formula, it being understood that such hedging transactions can take place on the market or off-market, through purchase and/or sale of shares, purchase of call options and/or any other transactions carried out at any time, in particular during the period of determination of the subscription price, and on the entire duration of the employee share plan.

Indicative schedule for the offering

Reservation period: from June 5 to 21, 2023;

Subscription/revocation period: from August 2 to 7, 2023;

Share capital increase: September 19, 2023.

These dates are indicative and may be modified following events affecting the implementation of the offering.

International warning

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or an invitation to subscribe for Technip Energies shares. The offer is strictly reserved for beneficiaries mentioned in this press release and will be implemented only in countries where such a transaction has been registered or notified to competent local authorities, or in consideration of an exemption from the requirement to draw up a prospectus or to register or notify the offer. This press release is not intended for countries where the offer remains subject to approval by competent authorities.

More generally, the offer will be made only in countries where all required registration procedures and/or notifications have been carried out and where necessary authorizations have been obtained.

About Technip Energies

Technip Energies is a leading Engineering Technology company for the energy transition, with leadership positions in Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), hydrogen and ethylene as well as growing market positions in blue and green hydrogen, sustainable chemistry and CO2 management. The company benefits from its robust project delivery model supported by extensive technology, products and services offering.

Operating in 35 countries, our 15,000 people are fully committed to bringing our client's innovative projects to life, breaking boundaries to accelerate the energy transition for a better tomorrow.

Technip Energies is listed on Euronext Paris with American depositary receipts ("ADRs"). For further information: www.technipenergies.com.

Important Information for Investors and Securityholders

Forward-Looking Statement

This release contains "forward-looking statements" as defined in Section 27A of the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements usually relate to future events and anticipated revenues, earnings, cash flows or other aspects of Technip Energies' operations or operating results. Forward-looking statements are often identified by the words "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "plan," "intend," "foresee," "should," "would," "could," "may," "estimate," "outlook," and similar expressions, including the negative thereof. The absence of these words, however, does not mean that the statements are not forward-looking. These forward-looking statements are based on Technip Energies' current expectations, beliefs and assumptions concerning future developments and business conditions and their potential effect on Technip Energies. While Technip Energies believes that these forward-looking statements are reasonable as and when made, there can be no assurance that future developments affecting Technip Energies will be those that Technip Energies anticipates.

All of Technip Energies' forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties (some of which are significant or beyond Technip Energies' control) and assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from Technip Energies' historical experience and Technip Energies' present expectations or projections. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements.

For information regarding known material factors that could cause actual results to differ from projected results, please see Technip Energies' risk factors set forth in Technip Energies' filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, which include amendment no. 4 to Technip Energies' registration statement on Form F-1 filed on February 11, 2021.

Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties and speak only as of the date they are made. Technip Energies undertakes no duty to and will not necessarily update any of the forward-looking statements in light of new information or future events, except to the extent required by applicable law.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005231/en/

Contacts:

Investor relations

Phil Lindsay

Director Investor Relations

+44 207 585 5051

Phillip Lindsay

Media relations

Stella Fumey

Director Press Relations Digital Communications

+33 1 85 67 40 95

Stella Fumey

Jason Hyonne

Press Relations Social Media Lead

+33 1 47 78 22 89

Jason Hyonne
The Business Research Company's global market reports are now updated with the latest market sizing information for the year 2023 and forecasted to 2032

LONDON, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- As per The Business Research Company's Glycomics Or Glycobiology Global Market Report 2023, the global glycomics or glycobiology market size is expected to grow from $1.3 billion in 2022 to $1.6 billion in 2023 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of more than 15%. The glycomics or glycobiology market is expected to reach $2.8 billion in 2027 at a CAGR of more than 15%. The increase in the demand for medicines for the treatment of several severe chronic diseases is expected to propel the growth of the glycomics or glycobiology market going forward.





North America was the largest region in the glycomics or glycobiology market in 2022. Asia-Pacific is expected to be the fastest-growing region in the forecast period.

Major glycomics or glycobiology market players include Water Corporation, Aligent Technologies, Bruker Corporation, Merck KgaA, New England Biolabs, Danaher Corporation, Shimadzu Corporation, ProZyme Inc., Takara Bio, S-BIO, Asparia Glycomics S.L, Lectenz Bio, Chemily Glycoscience, Z Biotech LLC, and RayBiotech.

Learn More On The Glycomics Or Glycobiology Market Report - https://www.thebusinessresearchcompany.com/report/glycomics-or-glycobiology-global-market-report

Investments in research and development activities are gaining popularity in glycomics or glycobiology market trends. Major research and development institutions are funding in research centers for glycobiology aiming for the research and development of Glycomics or Glycobiology. For instance, in August 2022, Griffith University, an Australia-based Institute for Glycomics, launched the ACRF International Centre for Cancer Glycomics with a $2.6 million ACRF grant, that is dedicated to achieving cancer glyco-code. This is a unique facility, with a better understanding of the glyco-code that lead to the translation of novel discoveries and clinical outcomes that would help cancer patients improve their lives.

In addition, major players in the glycomics or glycobiology market are focusing on strategic acquisitions and collaborations. In January 2021, Neogen, a US-based food safety company providing testing solutions for the food industry, acquired Megazyme for an undisclosed amount. Through this acquisition, Neogen gained a Megazyme product line that would help strengthen its business relationships with major food producers and companies. Megazyme is an Ireland-based developer, and manufacturer of analytical solutions, including glycobiology enzyme products.

Request A Free Sample Of The Glycomics Or Glycobiology Market Report - https://www.thebusinessresearchcompany.com/sample.aspx?id=8749&type=smp

The glycomics or glycobiology market report describes and explains the glycomics or glycobiology market and covers 2017 to 2022, termed the historic period, and 2022 to 2027 termed the forecast period, along with further forecasts for the period 2027-2032. The report evaluates the market across each region and for the major economies within each region. The regions covered in the glycomics or glycobiology report are Asia-Pacific, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, North America, South America, Middle East and Africa.

The major products of glycomics or glycobiology market are enzymes, kits, reagents and chemicals, instruments, and carbohydrates. Enzymes refer to biological polymers that catalyze biochemical reactions. These are used in various applications such as drug discovery and development, disease diagnostics, and others, and these are used in academic research institutes, pharmaceutical, and biotechnology companies and clinical laboratories.

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Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - April 18, 2023) - Golden Independence Mining Corp. (CSE: IGLD) (OTCQB: GIDMF) (FSE: 6NNA) (the "Company" or "Golden Independence") is pleased to announce it has commenced preliminary earthworks in preparation for an upcoming drill program at its development-stage Independence project in Nevada. The Company has engaged an earthworks contractor to cut roads and prepare drill pads ahead of exploration drilling, in addition to engaging geologic staff to conduct further exploration in terms of sampling, mapping and prospecting of the newly disturbed areas. The proposed upcoming exploration program will focus on delineating high-grade zones within and tangential to the proposed open pit, as well as testing of the recently discovered Rebel Zone. The Rebel Zone is located outside of the proposed open pit to the east where previous surface grab sampling of extensive silicified outcrop returned a highlight value of 7.72 g/t gold. Additionally, a NE striking gossanous structural zone has returned highlight grab values of 16.55 g/t, 14.45 g/t and 7.72 g/t gold. The exploration program is fully permitted with preliminary earthworks anticipated to be completed in the coming weeks.

"We are excited to get back to an active exploration program at our Independence project in Nevada," commented Jeremy Poirier, CEO of Golden Independence. "Since tabling our Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) in December of 2021, the market for gold and gold-related equities has improved significantly - with the price of gold appreciating from US$1,800 to near all-time highs of over US$2,050 per ounce. This improved sentiment, coupled with significant opportunities to both refine and improve the resource and economics at Independence, allows for this exploration program to have a meaningful impact on the project's valuation and attractiveness to peers."

The Independence project is a joint venture between Golden Independence Mining Corp. (the "Company") and Americas Gold Exploration Inc., with the Company being the operator and majority owner.

The technical content of this news release has been reviewed and approved by R. Tim Henneberry, P.Geo. (BC), a Director and President of Golden Independence Mining Corp. and a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101.

Figure 1: Image Showing Independence Project Relative to NGM's Phoenix Mine



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/7273/162791_72613ff7e4b6fb70_001full.jpg

About Golden Independence Mining Corp.

Golden Independence Mining Corp. is a development company currently focused on the development-stage Independence project located adjacent to Nevada Gold Mine's Phoenix-Fortitude mine in the Battle Mountain-Cortez Trend of Nevada in addition to the wholly owned Napoleon gold project located in the Kamloops Mining Division of BC. The Independence project hosts an M&I resource of 334,300 ounces of gold and an Inferred resource of 847,000 ounces of gold with a substantial silver credit. A 2021 Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) outlined a low-cost heap leach operation focusing on the near-surface resource with total production of 195,443 ounces of gold at an all-in sustaining cost of US$1,078 per ounce of gold. The Napoleon project is comprised of over 1,000 hectares and prospective for multiple forms of gold mineralization, with exploration in the area dating back to the 1970's with the discovery of high-grade gold.

--

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

Jeremy Poirier, Chief Executive Officer

Telephone: 1.604.722.9842

Email: info@goldenindependence.co

This press release contains forward-looking information (within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation) that involves various risks and uncertainties regarding future events. Such forward-looking information includes statements based on current expectations of management made in light of management's experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments. Forward-looking information is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties and, as such, forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance of the Company. Forward-looking information in this news release includes, without limitation, statements regarding the commencement of the exploration program at the Napoleon project and the exploration potential of the Napoleon project.. There are numerous risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking information in this news release, including without limitation, inherent risks associated with the mining industry and the results of exploration activities and development of mineral properties, stock market volatility and capital market fluctuations, general market and industry conditions, as well as those risk factors discussed in the Company's most recently filed management's discussion & analysis. Actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. This forward-looking information is based on estimates and opinions of management on the date hereof and is expressly qualified by this notice. Risks and uncertainties about the Company's business are more fully discussed in the Company's disclosure materials filed with the securities regulatory authorities in Canada at www.sedar.com. The Company assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking information or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from such information unless required by applicable law.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/162791
Deutsche Bank named winner of the 2023 Smarsh Customer Innovator Award, celebrating industry excellence and honoring the most forward-thinking customers

NEW YORK, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Smarsh, the global leader in digital communications compliance and intelligence, today announced Deutsche Bank as a winner of the 2023 Smarsh Customer Innovator Award to be presented at SmarshCONNECT 2023. Deutsche Bank has worked with Smarsh to enhance industry-leading communications surveillance and archival solutions, and were selected for their creativity and use of technology for compliance innovation.

"Congratulations to Deutsche Bank for earning this well-deserved honor," said Kim Crawford Goodman, Chief Executive Officer of Smarsh. "Their compliance teams are visionaries in the space, and incredible partners of Smarsh in driving the innovation required to meet the evolving challenges of digital communications compliance at enterprise scale. Our customers are doing important work on behalf of their clients, and partnering with Smarsh to move technology solutions forward. We are thrilled to celebrate their efforts."

While working to enhance its communications surveillance program and decommission a legacy platform, Deutsche Bank and Smarsh fine-tuned a compliance policy management console to enable real-time response to business, regulatory or audit demands. By leveraging AI-driven capabilities from Smarsh, Deutsche Bank's users test, adjust and administer policies in real-time without disrupting audit tracking or live risk coverage - all without technical involvement or resources required.

"We are honored to be recognized by Smarsh as an innovator in the Electronic Communications Surveillance space," said Jeffrey Loeb, Managing Director and Global Head of Communications Surveillance and Sanjay-Kumar Tripathi, Managing Director and Global Head of Communications Surveillance Technology, at Deutsche Bank. "Smarsh is a strategic partner that has provided effective technology and guidance to develop a global communications surveillance solution that enables faster, more effective surveillance to stay ahead of regulatory risk."

Presentation of the Smarsh Customer Innovator Awards follows an annual competitive nomination process and assessment. Deutsche Bank will be recognized tomorrow at SmarshCONNECT in New York on April 19, 2023.

The 2024 Smarsh Innovator Awards kick off in November with a call for nominations. Nominations can be made by Smarsh staff, partners or customers directly. A panel of judges will review the nominations in February, with nominee preparations beginning in March. The Customer Innovator Award will be announced at SmarshCONNECT 2024.

About Smarsh:

Smarsh enables companies to transform oversight into foresight by surfacing business-critical signals in more than 100 digital communications channels. Regulated organizations of all sizes rely upon the Smarsh portfolio of cloud-native digital communications capture, retention, and oversight solutions to help them identify regulatory and reputational risks within their communications data before those risks become fines or headlines.

Smarsh serves a global client base spanning the top banks in North America, Europe, and Asia, along with leading brokerage firms, insurers, and registered investment advisors and U.S. state and local government agencies. To discover more about the future of communications capture, archiving and oversight, visit www.smarsh.com.

Media Contact:

Haven Tower Group

Michael Dugan

mdugan@haventower.com

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/deutsche-bank-to-be-honored-as-winner-of-customer-innovator-award-at-2023-smarshconnect-conference-301799585.html
The annual general meeting of Equinor ASA (OSE: EQNR, NYSE: EQNR) will be held 10 May 2023 at 15:00 CEST.

The annual general meeting will be held in Equinor Business Center, Forusbeen 50, 4035 Stavanger for those attending in person and via Lumi AGM for those attending digitally. Voting will be carried out electronically via Lumi AGM both for shareholders attending in person and attending digitally. It is also possible to vote in advance or give proxy.

Please see detailed information under "Participation" in the notice of the annual general meeting, which is attached hereto. Further information is also to be found on http://www.equinor.com/agm.

Investor contact: Erik Gonder, + 47 99562611 or email to ergon@equinor.com

This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act

Attachment
As a result of the Ukraine war, almost half (47%) of business leaders in Europe and the US expect a delay of 2-3 years to achieving net zero goals.

However, 96% of business leaders are already sourcing, or planning to source, renewables and over half (53%) say rising energy prices have positively affected their sustainability ambitions.

Public recognition of the urgency of the situation has grown, with 'climate change', 'climate crisis', 'climate action' and 'carbon emissions' surging in online discourse.

Policymakers believe public understanding (35%), the speed at which businesses can adapt (35%) and cost (33%) are the biggest barriers to net zero.

Business leaders cite a lack of support from the government (34%), government policy (29%) and cost (42%) as the biggest barriers to net zero.

Business leaders and policymakers across Europe and the US expect the war in Ukraine to delay global net zero goals by up to three years, as many parts of the world turn to alternative sources of fossil fuels to reduce their reliance on Russia. At the same time, the combined effects of a climate and energy crisis are speeding up the renewable transition, with 96% of business leaders already sourcing renewables or planning to in the future. While 53% of business leaders say the resulting rise in energy prices has brought renewed urgency, positively impacting their sustainability ambitions.

Coal returned to the global online conversation in 2022 with over a million mentions a month an increase of almost 12% compared to 2021. While between 2020 and 2022, carbon-related mentions increased by 130%. This all comes against the backdrop of the changing online conversation where consumers have increased the use of urgent language such as 'climate crisis' and 'climate action', which have overtaken 'global warming' as a talking point.

These findings are according to BayWa r.e.'s 'The Decade That Matters 2.0 study, which surveyed 3,000 business leaders and policymakers across Europe, the UK and the US, and used a suite of social listening tools to analyse evolving public discourse online.

The direction of travel is clear: businesses are transitioning to renewable energy. However, when it comes to fully achieving that transition, 57% of business leaders believe it won't happen until 2050 or after, and almost one in ten (8%) think the transition will never be fully achieved. This is in contrast to policymakers, with over a third (35%) believing it will be achieved during the 2030s, and only 11% saying after 2050. As the world increasingly experiences the impacts of the climate crisis and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) makes repeated calls to aim higher and move faster, timing is fundamentally crucial.

"Two years on from the first 'The Decade That Matters' study, and its sentiment is more relevant than ever. The impacts of the climate crisis are being felt globally, and this crisis does not care about recessions, policies, borders or the speed at which humanity can adapt," said Matthias Taft, CEO of BayWa r.e

"The survey shows recognition of this urgency amongst the public, policymakers and business leaders. The war in Ukraine has simultaneously been a catalyst to speeding up the renewable transition, while also increasing short-term reliance on fossil fuels. While the direction of travel is clear, pace is crucial and any delay risks seeing the climate crisis exacerbated. While the transition has now sped up, fast is not yet fast enough."

Finger-pointing dominates the European landscape

Policymakers and business leaders not only differ in their views on the timing of the renewable transition but also about the biggest barriers to realising net zero. Globally, business leaders cite a lack of support from government (34%) and government policy (29%) as delaying the journey to net zero. While policymakers believe public understanding (35%) and the speed at which businesses can adapt (35%) are the biggest issues. However, 42% of business leaders and 33% of policymakers are in agreement that cost is a major barrier.

Changing sentiment is driving action

'The Decade That Matters 2.0' report also shows a growing change in online sentiment around climate change through its social listening findings. In the first report, mentions of 'net zero' were shown to have more than quintupled between the years of 2015 and 2019. In the three years since, they have done so again a significant rise in what is a far shorter amount of time.

In 2021, there was also a noticeable shift around the term 'climate crisis' which overtook 'global warming' as a talking point, peaking at over 2.5 million online mentions. While in 2022, sentiment shifted once more, with overtly negative mentions of 'net zero' doubling in comparison to 2018.

These changes around public understanding are undoubtedly influenced by seismic shifts in world affairs ones that indicate a move from awareness to urgency. While continuing to evolve, they also show growing impatience with the current pace of change. The opportunity to take the action necessary to avert the most catastrophic effects of the climate crisis is still there, but that window is rapidly closing as the initial impacts of the climate crisis are felt globally.

***ENDS***

BayWa r.e.'s 'The Decade That Matters 2.0':

BayWa r.e.'s 'The Decade That Matters 2.0' report is the result of research conducted on behalf of BayWa r.e. by Censuswide at the end of 2022, surveying over 3,000 business leaders and policymakers across the US, UK, France, Germany, Italy and Spain.

Alongside the research are insights into the conversations around climate change, compiled using Brandwatch social listening tools which helped analyse the state of play on a macro level, then drawing insights from over a billion mentions of key phrases online.

BayWa r.e. AG (BayWa r.e.):

At BayWa r.e. we r.e.think energy how it is produced, stored and can be best used to enable the global renewable energy transition that is essential to the future of our planet.

We are a leading global developer, service supplier, distributor and solutions provider and have brought over 5 GW of energy online and manage over 10 GW of assets. We are also an Independent Power Producer with an expanding energy trading business.

BayWa r.e. works with businesses worldwide to provide tailored renewable solutions. Operating 100% carbon neutral, we are also committed to our own sustainability journey.

Every day, we are working hard to actively shape the future of energy in a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace.

Our shareholders are BayWa AG, a 27.1 billion global business, and Energy Infrastructure Partners, a leader in energy infrastructure investment.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005754/en/

Contacts:

Archetype UK

Email: bayware@archetype.co
Aviva, the UK's leading insurer, is to roll out a broad range of products from CyberCube, the leading cyber risk analytics firm, to support the growth ambitions for its cyber book.

Aviva has signed a multi-year contract licensing CyberCube's platforms Portfolio Managerand Account Manager. It has also purchased additional features including CyberCube's Attritional Loss Model, Single Point of Failure (SPoF) Intelligence and Portfolio Manager APIs. Aviva has additionally purchased licences for CyberCube's Client Support Plus and Concierge Enhanced Access services, and will gain access to the CyberCube Academy.

Roxy Ionescu, CyberCube Sales Manager, said: "With considerable growth plans over the coming years, Aviva has chosen CyberCube as its cyber analytics vendor of choice and we are thrilled to partner together throughout this journey. CyberCube looks forward to equipping Aviva's underwriting team with our Account Manager solution which will provide the insights needed to make efficient and profitable underwriting decisions while Portfolio Manager will enable accumulation management support."

Stephen Ridley, Aviva Head of Cyber, said: "Aviva's ambition is to be a leading provider of cyber insurance to UK PLC. CyberCube's offering will not only help us grow our cyber book in a sustainable and profitable manner, but it will also play an important role in helping our customers improve their security capabilities and mitigate risks before they become an issue. Further, CyberCube's risk selection expertise will help us ensure that we have a strong grip on our potential exposure to systemic cyber risks."

Portfolio Manager is a scenario-based data-driven model that enables risk professionals to develop insights for their senior leadership and teams. It also allows stress testing of portfolios of insurance risk so that loss drivers and areas of accumulation risk can be identified.

Account Manager is designed for risk carriers and is used by leading companies across the insurance ecosystem. It enables underwriters to make efficient, data-driven risk selection decisions.

A SPoF is a provider which may disrupt large swaths of companies that rely on them for their business operations if they experience an outage. As the world becomes more highly interconnected and cyber risk is a growing problem, CyberCube has modeled hundreds of SPoFs and also enables analysis of over 40,000 unmodeled SPoF risks.

ENDS

About CyberCube

CyberCube delivers the world's leading cyber risk analytics for the insurance industry. With best-in-class data access and advanced multi-disciplinary analytics, the company's cloud-based platform helps insurance organizations quantify cyber risk to facilitate placing insurance, underwriting cyber risk and managing cyber risk aggregation. CyberCube's enterprise intelligence layer provides insights on millions of companies globally and includes modeling on thousands of points of technology failure.

For more information, please visit www.cybcube.com or email info@cybcube.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005771/en/

Contacts:

Yvette Essen, Head of Content, Communications Creative, CyberCube

yvettee@cybcube.com

Erik Nelson, Senior Media Relations Manager, Aviva

erik.nelson@aviva.com
COEUR D'ALENE, ID / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Idaho Strategic Resources (NYSE American:IDR) ("IDR" or the "Company") is pleased to announce an exploration crosscut intercepted the "H-Vein" at the Golden Chest Mine on March 29th, cutting a strongly mineralized vein that assayed 32.1 grams per tonne (gpt) gold over 0.43 meters on the northern rib and 54.1 gpt over 0.72 meters on the southern rib. Both samples represent true thickness. The H-Vein lies 60 meters (m) west of the Idaho Vein at the 794 elevation in the hangingwall of the Idaho Fault, which is why it is referred to as the H-Vein. The H-Vein is a banded quartz vein known to lie immediately below the Timber King Fault. Both fault and vein zone strike northerly and dip from 70 to 75 degrees to the west. Previous drilling by IDR had identified this vein zone when drilling for targets along the Idaho Vein.

This vein system consists of both a banded quartz vein as well as the adjacent silica-flooded zone bearing strong pyrite. The banded vein exhibits abundant visible gold with associated pyrite, galena, chalcopyrite, and sphalerite. IDR's chip samples of the banded vein show assay values ranging between 29 gpt to 73.7 gpt gold. Widths of this banded vein are from 0.4 to 0.72 meters. The adjacent silica-flooded unit is hard, dark-colored and has 3-5 % auriferous pyrite.

Muck samples are collected from each 2.5 m long round during drifting and are anticipated to be representative of the diluted grade that can be expected at the mill. Initial drifting along the vein has yielded an average muck sample grade of 25.1 gpt for 24.8 meters of strike length. The H-Vein material is currently being shipped to the mill so the gold grade of the muck samples can be confirmed.

Idaho Strategic's VP of Operations, Grant Brackebusch added, "I'm excited about the drifting results on the H-vein because of the high gold grades encountered, and the attitude of the vein which may allow for a more efficient mining method. If our drifting continues to show high grades over increasing strike length, our production emphasis will quickly shift from the Skookum to the H-vein because it's readily accessible from our existing ramp. Additionally, the discovery of the H-vein in the hangingwall of the Idaho Fault opens our eyes to the exploration potential for other steeply dipping, high grade veins in that area. Given the H-Vein's location near the Main Access Ramp (MAR), and the early indication of high gold grades, the H-Vein could increase the gold ounces sent to the mill without increasing development costs."

The H-Vein was first noted in three core holes drilled by IDR in 2005. More drilling during a large (18,034 meters) 2011-2012 surface diamond drill program, and two holes in 2022, further defined the H-Vein in nine additional intercepts.

Drill intercepts for the H-Vein are shown in the table below and are reported in drill thickness (not true thickness) and in grams of gold per tonne (gpt).

GC 05-2 H-Vein 1.1 gpt gold over 0.8 meters (m) GC 05-3 H-Vein 15.3 gpt gold over 1.3 m GC 05-4 H-Vein 6.5 gpt gold over 2.8 m GC 11-01 H-Vein 4.9 gpt gold over 1.3 m GC 11-03 H-Vein 7.5 gpt gold over 2.0 m GC 11-05 H-Vein 6.0 gpt gold over 1.0 m GC 11-06 H-Vein 17.6 gpt gold over 1.5 m GC 11-10 H-Vein 4.3 gpt gold over 2.0 m GC 12-119 H-Vein 6.7 gpt gold over 1.5 m GC 12-120T H-Vein 73.4 gpt gold over 1.1 m GC 22-225 H-Vein 9.78 gpt gold over 1.25 m GC 22-227 H-Vein 9.6 gpt gold over 1.1 m

The plan to explore and possibly develop the H-Vein into another production area starts with the current drifting program to explore the H-Vein laterally on strike to the north and south at the 794 elevation. The continuity of the vein at this depth is unknown since the 794 Drift is lower than all but one of the drillholes (GC 11-06: 17.6 gpt gold over 1.5 m) which intercepted the H-Vein 90 meters south of the current face at about the same elevation. The second step in the plan will be to extend a crosscut from the 812 Sublevel and intersect the H-Vein and drift along the vein at the 812 elevation, again along strike to the north and south.

If ore tonnage blocks are identified by the exploration drifting, they will represent a highly accessible, near-term source of mill feed. The steep dip of the H-Vein means that it is potentially amenable to Long-Hole Stoping methods which would be lower cost and offer less dilution than the current Underhand Cut-and-Fill method employed on the Idaho Vein. Long-Hole Stoping would require competent wallrock so the drifting process will allow for geotechnical observations of the adjacent rock to help in the planning and engineering of future mining methods.

The H-Vein was included in the updated Mineral Resource for the year ending December 31, 2022. It made up a small portion of the total Skookum resource with 94,770 tonnes of Measured and Indicated Resource grading 4.3 gpt. Initial exploration drifting is taking place on the margin of the Inferred Resource area and initial results show significantly higher grades than the block model predicted. These initial results suggest that the H-Vein Resource may be remodeled to a higher grade and even possibly reserve classification with additional drifting up and down dip and with further exploration drilling.

Qualified person

IDR's Vice President , Grant A. Brackebusch, P.E. is a qualified person as such term is defined under S-K 1300 and has reviewed and approved the technical information and data included in this press release. All reported assays are 30-gram fire assays with a gravimetric finish completed by American Analytical, Inc. of Osburn, Idaho. A QA/AC program includes a series of blank, standard, and duplicate sample assays for verification and quality control.

About Idaho Strategic Resources, Inc.

Domiciled in Idaho and headquartered in the Panhandle of northern Idaho, Idaho Strategic Resources (IDR) is one of the few resource-based companies (public or private) possessing the combination of officially recognized U.S. domestic rare earth elements properties (in Idaho), the largest known concentration of thorium resources in the U.S., and Idaho-based gold production located in an established mining community.

Idaho Strategic Resources produces gold at the Golden Chest Mine located in the Murray Gold Belt (MGB) area of the world-class Coeur d'Alene Mining District, north of the prolific Silver Valley. With over 7,300 acres of patented and unpatented land, the Company has the largest private land position in the area following its consolidation of the Murray Gold Belt for the first time in over 100-years.

In addition to gold and gold production, the Company maintains an important strategic presence in the U.S. Critical Minerals sector, specifically focused on the more "at-risk" Rare Earth Elements (REEs) with an overall land position of approximately 18,030 acres in Idaho's REE-Th Belt. The Company's Diamond Creek, Roberts, and Lemhi Pass REE properties are included the U.S. national REE inventory as listed in USGS, IGS and DOE publications. IDR's Lemhi Pass REE-Thorium Project is also recognized by the USGS and IGS as containing the largest concentration of thorium resources in the country. All three projects are located in central Idaho and participating in the USGS Earth MRI program.

With an impressive mix of experience and dedication, the folks at IDR maintain a long-standing "We Live Here" approach to corporate culture, land management, and historic preservation. Furthermore, it is our belief that successful operations begin with the heightened responsibility that only local oversight and a community mindset can provide. Its "everyone goes home at night" policy would not be possible without the multi-generational base of local exploration, drilling, mining, milling, and business professionals that reside in and near the communities of the Silver Valley and North Idaho.

For more information on Idaho Strategic Resources click here for our corporate presentation, go to www.idahostrategic.com or call:

Travis Swallow, Investor Relations & Corporate Development

Email: tswallow@idahostrategic.com

Phone: (208) 625-9001

Forward Looking Statements

This release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended that are intended to be covered by the safe harbor created by such sections. Often, but not always, forward-looking information can be identified by forward-looking words such as "intends", "potential", "believe", "plans", "expects", "may", "goal', "assume", "estimate", "anticipate", and "will" or similar words suggesting future outcomes, or other expectations, beliefs, assumptions, intentions, or statements about future events or performance. Forward-looking information includes, but are not limited to, Idaho Strategic Resources targeted production rates and results, the expected market prices of gold, individual rare earth elements, and/or thorium, as well as the related costs, expenses and capital expenditures, the potential advancement of the Company's projects, the potential development of the H-Vein, the economics of the H-Vein, and the potential for the H-Vein to allow for reduced mining costs. Forward-looking information is based on the opinions and estimates of Idaho Strategic Resources as of the date such information is provided and is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance, or achievements of IDR to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. The forward-looking statement information above, and those following are applicable to both this press release, as well as the links contained within this press release. With respect to the business of Idaho Strategic Resources, these risks and uncertainties include risks relating to widespread epidemics or pandemic outbreaks, if they occur, including our ability to access goods and supplies, the ability to transport our products and impacts on employee productivity, the risks in connection with the operations, cash flow and results of the Company relating to the unknown duration and impact of the COVID-19 pandemic; interpretations or reinterpretations of geologic information; the accuracy of historic estimates; unfavorable exploration results; inability to obtain permits required for future exploration, development or production; general economic conditions and conditions affecting the industries in which the Company operates; the uncertainty of regulatory requirements and approvals; fluctuating mineral and commodity prices; the ability to obtain necessary future financing on acceptable terms; the ability to operate the Company's projects; and risks associated with the mining industry such as economic factors (including future commodity prices, and energy prices), ground conditions, failure of plant, equipment, processes and transportation services to operate as anticipated, environmental risks, government regulation, actual results of current exploration and production activities, possible variations in ore grade or recovery rates, permitting timelines, capital and construction expenditures, reclamation activities. Although 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. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such information. Additional information regarding the factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from this forward-looking information is available in Idaho Strategic Resources filings with the SEC on EDGAR. IDR does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any forward-looking information whether as a result of new information, future events or other such factors which affect this information, except as required by law.

SOURCE: Idaho Strategic Resources, Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/749727/Idaho-Strategic-Begins-Drifting-on-High-Grade-H-Vein
Railroad Contractors Consolidate to Increase Services and Geographic Reach

EDMONTON, AB / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / As a leading provider of inspection, maintenance, repair and specialized construction services for industrial railroad infrastructure in the United States, American Track Services ("ATS") is proud to announce the acquisition of Universal Rail Systems ("URS") in Canada and the creation of a new parent company, North American Rail Solutions.

North American Rail Solutions

North American Rail Solutions, American Track and Universal Rail Systems logos

With the establishment of North American Rail Solutions, the two existing brands will operate under a consolidated umbrella, with ATS serving customers in the United States and URS serving customers in Canada. ATS and URS will remain focused on quality service while continuing to increase their geographic reach and combining their capabilities to deliver an industry-leading suite of solutions and services in both countries. The North American Rail Solutions brands partner with organizations of all sizes and across all industries to help them build and strengthen their rail transportation infrastructure to support operational growth.

Following this transaction, Thomas Lucario, current Chief Executive Officer of American Track Services, will serve as CEO for North American Rail Solutions, ATS, and URS. Ken Reger will serve as CFO. Tim McMillan will serve as President and COO of URS, lead operations in Canada, and will join the Board of Directors of North American Rail Solutions.

"The creation of North American Rail Solutions along with the consolidation of American Track Services and Universal Rail Systems will create increased capabilities that are unmatched in the industry," said Thomas Lucario, CEO of American Track Services. As a team of proactive experts with unparalleled industry experience, we are able to deliver the largest and most trusted rail services platform in North America. With this acquisition, we can now leverage our combined size and suite of services to support our partners and customers whenever and wherever they need us. The URS team has consistently provided excellent service and have proven themselves as the industry leader in Canada. ATS and URS share a common culture centered on customer service, quality, and responsiveness both internally and externally. We are proud to welcome Tim McMillan and the entire URS team into the North American Rail Solutions and American Track Services family."

Tim McMillan, President and COO for URS added: "We are excited to partner with the ATS team to create the newly formed North American Rail Solutions. Our combined experience, resources, and scale will enable us to provide our customers with the highest level of service throughout North America. We very much look forward to this next chapter of growth in our business."

In 2021, DFW Capital Partners acquired American Track Services and has assisted with an aggressive strategy to grow the organization organically and through acquisition. Operating from 12 full-service offices in strategically located U.S. markets, the company provides mission-critical services to its customers that ensure the safety, compliance, operability, and flexibility of onsite railway assets. American Track Services serves a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, petrochemical, mining, agricultural products, food and beverage, basic raw materials, ports, transload facilities, and short-line railroads.

Keith Pennell, Managing Partner of DFW Capital Partners, added: "Less than 18 months after our original investment in American Track Services, we have become the leading North American provider of rail inspection, maintenance, repair, and niche construction services to industrial customers. With the addition of Universal Rail Systems, we will not only broaden our footprint into Canada, but build upon established relationships and proven capabilities in the Class 1 and transit segments - all while partnering with a first-class team of industry veterans. We are excited to welcome the entire URS organization under the new North American Rail Solutions umbrella!"

ATS acquired URS from an investor group led by TorQuest Partners ("TorQuest"). TorQuest's Mike Salisbury stated: "We are proud of the partnership we have built with the URS management team over the years and wish them continued success in this new chapter with North American Rail Solutions."

URS was represented in the process by Northborne Partners and Lazard. Affiliates of DFW Capital Partners made an additional equity investment in the company, coupled with support from ATS' existing lender, PineBridge Investments. Financial terms of the transaction are not being disclosed.

North American Rail Solutions

Headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, North American Rail Solutions is an international railroad services organization serving clientele across the continent. The organization's unmatched reach is supported by an interconnected network of entrenched local offices and entities, enabling the team to respond to any railroad issue, anywhere within the United States or Canada. North American Rail Solutions (www.NorthAmericanRailSolutions.com) is a portfolio company of DFW Capital Partners.

American Track Services

Headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, American Track Services is the leading independent provider of turnkey railroad design, repair, maintenance, construction, inspection, and terminal services for critical rail infrastructure at industrial, short-line, municipal, and logistics sites in the United States. www.AmericanTrack.com

Universal Rail Systems

Headquartered in Edmonton, Alberta, Universal Rail Systems is the leading railway infrastructure service provider in Canada, operating out of 12 locations across Canada from West coast to East Coast. URS is the largest provider of industrial rail inspection, maintenance, construction and terminal services in Canada. In addition, URS provides Class I and Transit customer support services including construction, flagging, signals, and ticketing. www.universalrail.com

DFW Capital Partners

DFW Capital Partners is a private equity investment firm focused on lower middle-market companies. With ~$2 billion under management, the firm concentrates on service companies, with an emphasis on outsourced business and industrial support services, and healthcare companies. DFW has established a 20+ year track record of success in both building leading companies and recognizing attractive returns for its investors. DFW is headquartered in Teaneck, New Jersey and maintains an office in Chevy Chase, Maryland. Additional information is available on DFW's website at www.dfwcapital.com.

TorQuest Partners

Founded in 2002, TorQuest Partners is a Canadian-based manager of private equity funds. With more than C$3.5 billion of equity capital under management, TorQuest is currently investing from TorQuest Partners Fund V, a C$1.4 billion fund that closed in March 2020. TorQuest invests in middle market companies and works in close partnership with management to build value. To learn more about TorQuest, please visit www.torquest.com.

Contact Information

Thomas Lucario

Chief Executive Officer

tlucario@northamericanrailsolutions.com

18174395693

SOURCE: American Track

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/749425/American-Track-Establishes-North-American-Rail-Solutions-and-Acquires-Universal-Rail-Systems
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - April 18, 2023) - Idaho Champion (CSE: ITKO) (OTCQB: GLDRF) (FSE: 1QB1) ("Idaho Champion" or the "Company") is pleased to announce details for the Company's upcoming Annual General Meeting ("AGM") which will be held virtually on Thursday, May 18, 2023, at 2:00 PM EDT.

One of the main voting items will be a proposed name change to "Champion Electric Metals", a name which would better reflect the Company's transition into battery metals that started in 2022 and is now in full force. Following the name change, the Company will unveil the new branding and logo.

President and CEO Jonathan Buick commented:

"Last year, we made a decision to shift focus to critical metals and are proud of what we have accomplished to date. Both our lithium project in Quebec and cobalt projects in Idaho show great promise. The historic data and results of the field exploration programs completed last fall will guide our follow-up spring field programs that will begin in the short term.

"As part of our new strategy, we are undertaking a marketing and branding overhaul and are transitioning to a new name that would solidify our vision of becoming a leading exploration company looking for reliable domestic supply sources of battery metals.

"We are very excited for this next chapter."

All information related to the Idaho Champion AGM will be stored on the AGM Connect website after the mail date of Friday, April 21st, 2023: https://agmconnect.com/itko2023/.

About Idaho Champion Gold Mines Inc.

Idaho Champion is a discovery-focused exploration company that is committed to advancing its highly prospective lithium properties in Quebec, Canada and cobalt properties in Idaho, United States. In addition, the Company owns the Baner gold project in Idaho County and the Champagne polymetallic project in Butte County near Arco.

The Company's shares trade on the CSE under the trading symbol "ITKO", on the OTCQB under the trading symbol "GLDRF", and on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange under the symbol "1QB1". Idaho Champion strives to be a responsible environmental steward, stakeholder and contributing citizen to the local communities where it operates, taking its social license seriously, employing local community members and service providers at its operations whenever possible.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF IDAHO CHAMPION

"Jonathan Buick"

Jonathan Buick, President and CEO

To learn more, please visit the Company's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com or the Company's corporate website at www.idahochamp.com.

For further information, please contact:

Nicholas Konkin, Marketing and Communications

Phone: (416) 567-9087

Email: nkonkin@idahochamp.com

THIS PRESS RELEASE DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER TO SELL OR THE SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY ANY SECURITIES IN ANY JURISDICTION, NOR SHALL THERE BE ANY OFFER, SALE, OR SOLICITATION OF SECURITIES IN ANY STATE IN THE UNITED STATES IN WHICH SUCH OFFER, SALE, OR SOLICITATION WOULD BE UNLAWFUL.

Cautionary Statements

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its regulation services provider has reviewed or accepted responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release. This press release may include forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation, concerning the business of the Company. Forward-looking information is based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by management of the Company, including closing of the Transactions and the prospectivity of the Projects for lithium. Although the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward-looking information is based on are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking information because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release. The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update publicly any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, other than as required by applicable securities laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/162746
Drilling Targeting Deeper Mineralization

Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - April 18, 2023) - Compass Gold Corp. (TSXV: CVB) ("Compass" or the "Company") is pleased to provide an update on the recently completed deep reverse circulation drilling at the Tarabala prospect, located on the Company's Sikasso Property in Southern Mali (Figure 1).

Highlights

Drilling at the Tarabala prospect to test 450 m of a 1,000 m zone intercepted higher-grade mineralized areas within wide zones of low-grade mineralization

Best interval: 13 m at 3.30 g/t Au (from 84 m), including 8 m @ 4.95 g/t Au (from 84 m) Highest-grade interval: 1 m @ 18.90 m (from 86 m)

Widest interval of low-grade mineralization was 19 m at 0.84 g/t Au (from 170 m)

Mineralization remains open at depth

The Company is considering a metallurgical sample test program of high-grade, near-surface gold mineralization

Compass CEO, Larry Phillips, said, "These are very positive results for Compass. Our objective has always been to identify an open pit gold deposit along the extensive regional trends that run through our properties. Whereas an open pit mine in Mali can be economic at 0.7 grams per tonne, we have discovered grades in this 450 m section of the Tarabala zone far exceeding that level. And even more exciting is that our drilling intercepted significant down-dip widths of gold mineralization at depths of just 125 m from surface. This includes some of the highest grade intercepts we have seen in this area, including 13 m at 3.30 grams per tonne, which bodes well for follow-up drilling.

"Meanwhile, we are awaiting the results of the metallic screen fire assaying to determine if coarse-grained, nuggety gold is present in the samples. If it is, then it is likely that previously reported grades from drilling along the 14 km Tarabala trend were under-reported, which would indicate a huge potential for future resource estimations along several zones of that trend."

Dr. Sandy Archibald, PGeo, Technical Director, added, "I am pleased with the promising results of our recent bedrock drilling at Tarabala, and eagerly await the metallic screen fire assay results to assess the presence of nuggety gold and the potential impact on reported grades."

"Also, during my recent site visit, I was impressed to find that the number of artisanal workings at Tarabala has increased sharply since we last drilled there in August 2021. Field mapping now shows that artisanal workings have extended 1,000 m sporadically along the Tarabala Fault, and they have been excavated to depths up to 15 m. Similar increases in artisanal activity have also been observed within our Moribala permit area. There, these artisanal miners are typically extracting significant amounts of coarse-grained gold. As a result, we are assessing the potential for higher grade mineralization being present near surface along these trends and the economics of accessing that gold."

Next Steps

Based on the recent drilling, the Company now believes that gold mineralization is open at depth and continues to the south of the main workings. Additional drilling is required along the full 800 m length of the target zone structure to enable the Company to perform an initial resource estimation. Preliminary studies suggest that this program will require 3,200 m of air core (AC) and reverse circulation (RC) drilling. A budget for this work will be prepared in order to determine what additional funding would be required.

The Company will also develop a plan for deep trenching and pitting at Tarabala to determine the quantities of near-surface gold mineralization that can be recovered from the laterite. This would involve five 100-m trenches excavated to a depth of 5 m, and the collection and analysis of (2400) 1 m channel samples. A series of 5 m deep pits would be dug every 20 m between the trenches and the channels would be sampled for gold. Metallurgical testing would be performed to determine the gold recovery.





Figure 1: Location of drilled prospects and artisanal workings along the Tarabala and Masala faults.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/1861/162807_77fa0d4c741cca3d_001full.jpg

Tarabala Drilling Results

Six RC drill holes (1,036 m) were drilled in early March at the Tarabala prospect to test the down-dip extension of mineralization previously identified by near-surface drilling there (See Compass press releases, June 15, 2020, January 20, 2021, and December 6, 2021).





Figure 2: Summary map of drilling on the Tarabala Trend and the location of the recently completed RC drill hole locations.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/1861/162807_77fa0d4c741cca3d_002full.jpg

The holes were completed over the 450 m strike length of previously drill-tested shallow mineralization to test the grade and continuity at a depth of a 1,000-m panel of the best gold mineralization (Figure 2). Gold mineralization was present in all drill holes and was associated with narrow quartz veins associated with the highly sheared, graphite-rich, Tarabala fault. Wide zones of mineralization greater than 10 m were recorded in five holes: 19 m @ 0.84 g/t Au (from 170 m, SARC022), 13 m @ 3.30 g/t Au (from 84 m, SARC019), 11 m @ 0.46 g/t Au (from 125 m, SARC020), 10 m @ 0.49 g/t Au (from 140 m, SARC017), and 10 m @ 0.42 g/t Au (from 101 m, SARC018). Individual intervals within these mineralized intervals are narrower with higher gold grades (Table 1). For example, SARC019 had a mineralized interval of 8 m @ 4.95 g/t Au (from 84 m), and SARC004 contained an interval of 3 m @ 1.63 g/t Au (from 186 m). No significant mineralized intervals were encountered in SARC021.

SARC022 was the most southerly hole drilled and contained the widest mineralized zone, 19 m @ 0.84 g/t Au (from 170 m). This zone correlated well with previous shallower mineralization, i.e., SAAC080 (7 m @ 0.43 g/t Au, from 37 m; 3 m @ 5.13 g/t Au, from 47 m), SARC005 (13 m @ 0.79 g/t Au, from 84 m), and SADD004 (17 m @ 0.96 g/t Au, from 101 m), and clearly showed that the structure remains open at depth (Figure 2). Drilling occurred beneath an iron-rich crust ("cuirass") where only small amounts of artisanal mining had been performed. However, where the cuirass has been naturally eroded 50 m to the south of SARC022, an extensive series of deep artisanal workings are currently being excavated, showing the workings are present over a distance of 1,000 m, which correlates well with Compass' drilling results.

Table 1. Mineralized intervals greater than 3 m and grades greater than 0.4 g/t Au identified during recent RC drilling at the Tarabala prospect

Hole ID From (m) To (m) 1, 2 Interval (m) Au (g/t) SARC017 140 150 10 0.49 inc. 142 143 3 0.59 inc. 149 150 5 0.6 SARC018 81 83 2 1.41 SARC018 119 129 10 0.42 inc. 119 121 2 0.92 inc. 125 126 1 0.77 SARC019 84 97 13 3.30 inc. 84 92 8 4.95 inc. 94 97 3 1.02 SARC020 125 136 11 0.46 inc. 125 128 3 0.99 inc. 131 132 1 0.54 inc. 134 136 2 0.52 SARC022 161 164 3 0.59 SARC022 170 189 19 0.84 inc. 170 178 8 0.81 inc. 181 184 3 1.31 inc. 186 189 3 1.63

1True thicknesses are interpreted as 70-90% of stated intervals.

2 Intervals use a 0.2-gram-per-tonne gold cut-off value.

Tarabala Artisanal Workings Mapping and Nearby Processing Plant

The Compass field team has been mapping the abundance of artisanal workings on the ground and using drone technology on the Sankarani and Moribala permits. It is clear that the workings have grown substantially since they were last mapped from satellite images taken in 2019. Workings at Tarabala now occur over a strike length of 1 km and have been excavated to depths in excess of 15 m. The most extensive workings occur on the Moribala permit, where the Nglokouna workings follow the trace of the Tarabala Fault for 2.6 km, and the Dakouna workings for nearly 1 km on the Moribala Fault.

A site visit was also conducted to a nearby 200-tonne-per-day gold process plant, which is located 1 km northwest of the main area of artisanal gold working at Tarabala. This visit was to assess whether Compass could use similar equipment to process a bulk sample from Tarabala and Massala West to determine the gold recovery. These bulk samples would allow Compass to determine gold recoveries from the high-grade, near-surface portions of mineralization on the Tarabala Fault.

Technical Details

All six RC holes at the Tarabala prospect were drilled at dips of 55, with azimuths of 270 (towards the west). Hole lengths varied from 115 to 200 m, for a total depth of 1,036 m. Drilling was performed by FTE Drilling, a Canadian company with a Malian subsidiary based in Bamako. All samples were prepared by Compass staff, and an appropriate number of standards, duplicates and blanks were submitted and analysed for gold using cyanide-leach (LeachWELL) analysis at ALS (Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso), and follow-up metallic screen fire assay at SGS (Bamako, Mali).

About Compass Gold Corp.

Compass, a public company having been incorporated into Ontario, is a Tier 2 issuer on the TSX- V. Through the 2017 acquisition of MGE and Malian subsidiaries, Compass holds gold exploration permits located in Mali that comprise the Sikasso Property. The exploration permits are located in three sites in southern Mali with a combined land holding of 867 sq. km. The Sikasso Property is located in the same region as several multi-million-ounce gold projects, including Morila, Syama, Kalana and Komana. The Company's Mali-based technical team, led in the field by Dr. Madani Diallo and under the supervision of Dr. Sandy Archibald, P.Geo, is conducting the current exploration program. They are examining numerous anomalies first noted in Dr. Archibald's August 2017 "National Instrument 43-101 Technical Report on the Sikasso Property, Southern Mali."

Qualified Person

This news release has been reviewed and approved by EurGeol. Dr. Sandy Archibald, P.Geo, Compass's Technical Director, the Qualified Person for the technical information in this news release under National Instrument 43-101 standards.

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including statements regarding the Company's planned exploration work and management appointments. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by such information. The statements in this news release are made as of the date hereof. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information except as required by applicable law.

For further information please contact:

Compass Gold Corporation

Larry Phillips - Pres. & CEO

lphillips@compassgoldcorp.com

T: +1 416-596-0996 X 302

Compass Gold Corporation

Greg Taylor - Dir. Investor Relations & Corporate Communications

gtaylor@compassgoldcorp.com

T: +1 416-596-0996 X 301

Website: www.compassgoldcorp.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.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/162807
Pairing adaptive streaming technology with MiQ's agnostic, multi-DSP capabilities delivers more sustainable, high-quality ads while supercharging campaign performance

As part of its ongoing commitment to addressing pollution caused by online media delivery, leading global programmatic media partner MiQ today announces a new partnership with groundbreaking streaming tech provider, SeenThis. Together, the pair are modernizing creative delivery for eco-conscious brands and agencies, using the power of streaming to advance more sustainable MiQ-driven campaigns across the world.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005455/en/

Compared to conventional technology used to deliver programmatic creative, SeenThis is fueled by adaptive streaming, which instantly delivers the highest quality creative possible and with less data waste. These ads stream in bite-sized pieces when in-view, ensuring that data is transferred only when actively consumed by users and is otherwise paused. For MiQ and its clients, this reduces data waste by an average of 25%, as well as associated carbon emissions all related to excessive buffering and offscreen loading. It also eliminates reliance on publisher bandwidth to download files and improves the overall user experience for static images, video, and other display formats. This includes:

No creative limits : Creative delivery modernized by streaming tech

: Creative delivery modernized by streaming tech Effective delivery of greener campaigns : Wasted impressions are minimized by pausing advertisements when out-of-view

: Wasted impressions are minimized by pausing advertisements when out-of-view High attention formats: Clients can extend video reach into display formats with over 80% viewability

Paired with MiQ's agnostic, multi-DSP optimization tactics and advanced programmatic activation strategies, MiQ and SeenThis have already achieved greener and more performant results for over 100 campaigns to date, including for major fashion houses, tourism brands and next-gen gaming companies. Through faster load times and better viewability, click-through rates have performed 2x better than standard display, resulting in nearly 85K KG of CO2e savings for clients to date, which is equivalent to the pollution from over 3 million plastic bags or driving from New York to L.A. 160+ times.

Against this impressive backdrop, MiQ is using SeenThis technology to develop new streamed formats and expand its streamed offering into other channels beyond display, which will be unveiled in the coming months.

"In 2022, we made great strides with Scope3 and MiQ's Green Score to measure, reduce, and benchmark carbon emissions across the supply chain," says Chris Lehman, Global Head of Creative at MiQ. "Our team is fully dedicated to identifying and actioning new ways to address the sustainability needs of the industry. Optimizing and future-proofing the creative that clients use seemed like a natural next step in this continued progression. SeenThis is the perfect partner to aid us in that journey and we look forward to further innovations which enable a greener ad ecosystem."

Thomas Houge, CCO at SeenThis adds: "The combination of our innovative creative technology with MiQ's robust sustainability offering creates something completely new in the market. We're already seeing the huge benefits that this provides to companies we're working with together. We're eager and ready to facilitate this success for others across the globe and excited to collaborate with MiQ on additional advances this year and beyond."

About SeenThis:

Since 2017, Swedish tech company SeenThis has been evolving screen experiences for everyone, everywhere. With its groundbreaking adaptive streaming technology, SeenThis is transforming the distribution and climate impact of digital content compared to traditional technology. With billions of streams served for 1,000+ brands in 40+ countries, the company is on a journey to reshape the internet for good. Working across seven offices globally, SeenThis employees are obsessed with creating a truly high-speed and energy-efficient Internet. For more information, visit seenthis.co.

About MiQ

We're MiQ, a programmatic media partner for marketers and agencies. We connect data from multiple sources to do interesting, exciting, business-problem-solving things for our clients. We're experts in data science, analytics and programmatic trading, and our team of people are always ready to react and solve challenges quickly, to make sure you're always spending your media investments on the right things in the right places.

Headquartered in London, MiQ operates globally from 18 offices located across North America, Europe, and APAC. Our company has been recognized numerous times for our stellar contributions both internally and externally including for Ad Age's 2023 Best Places to Work Award, 2022 Inc. Programmatic Power Players list, and AdExchanger's Programmatic Power Players list in 2022, 2021, and 2020.

You can find out more here: wearemiq.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005455/en/

Contacts:

U.S. Media Contact

Nicole Sullivan

Gregory FCA

(212)-398-9680

nsullivan@gregoryfca.com
Warrior Gold Inc. (TSX-V WAR) ("Warrior Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the results of the Company's Special Meeting of Shareholders held Monday, April 17th (the "Meeting"). A total of 56,246,741 common shares of the Company (the "Common Shares") were represented at the Meeting, representing approximately 47% of the total number of issued and outstanding Common Shares. The Meeting was held in connection with Warrior Gold's planned acquisition of the Lucky Strike project (the "Lucky Strike Property") located in Kirkland Lake, Ontario from New Found Gold Corp. ("NFG") as more particularly described in the Company's press release of February 22, 2023 (the "Acquisition"

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005617/en/

Map 1 Combined land package, approximately 36,300 hectares (363 km2)1 (Graphic: Business Wire)

At the Meeting, all resolutions were approved close to unanimously, including: (1) the approval of a name change; (2) the consolidation of the Common Shares on the basis of four pre-consolidation Common Shares for one post-consolidation Common Share; (3) the approval of NFG as a new control person of the Company; and (4) all four management nominees to the board of directors, to be appointed upon completion of the Acquisition. The resolutions will come into effect on closing of the Acquisition.

Daniele Spethmann, President and CEO of Warrior Gold stated: "The overwhelming support received from shareholders for the acquisition of the Lucky Strike Property paves the way towards finalization of this transformative transaction. The consolidation of Warrior Gold's Kirkland Lake properties with the Lucky Strike Project will create a highly prospective land package in a renowned mining district (see Map 1). We look forward to closing the acquisition in the coming weeks."

Scientific and Technical Information

All scientific and technical information set forth herein has been reviewed by Susan Lomas, Warrior's Principal Technical Advisor, and a "qualified person" as defined under National Instrument 43-101.

About Warrior Gold Inc.

Warrior Gold is a TSX Venture Exchange-listed company that has consolidated significant and prospective land packages in the Kirkland Lake Gold Camp in Ontario, Canada. The properties are hosted in the Abitibi Greenstone Belt, one of the world's best-endowed greenstone belts with +200 million ounces of gold produced to date2. The properties are host to regional and property-scale mineralized structures that are considered to be second order structures off the Larder Lake Cadillac Deformation Zone LLCDZ the regional structure in the belt known to be spatially associated with the gold mines hosted in the camp.

The properties assembled include: the 100%-owned Goodfish-Kirana, the Arnold property and the optioned KL West (KLW) and KL Central (KLC). Warrior Gold's land position in the Kirkland Lake Gold Camp comprises approximately 25,000 ha, over 617 claims and 29 patented claims and ranks the company as one of the largest landholders in the Kirkland Lake region.

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 news 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. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein.

Forward-Looking Statements

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 Warrior Gold's 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 completion of the Acquisition, regulatory approval, and the parties' ability to satisfy closing conditions and receive necessary approvals. 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 Warrior Gold and NFG. Although such statements are based on reasonable assumptions of Warrior Gold's management, there can be no assurance that the Acquisition will occur, or that if the Acquisition does occur, it will be completed on the terms described in the Company's press release dated February 22, 2023.

Forward-looking information contained in this news release is based on certain factors and assumptions regarding, among other things, the receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals and satisfaction of other conditions to the completion of the Acquisition, availability of necessary financing, potential mineralization on the Lucky Strike Property, and other similar matters. While Warrior Gold considers these assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available to them, they may prove to be incorrect. Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such factors include risks inherent in the exploration and development of mineral deposits, including risks relating to changes in project parameters as plans continue to be redefined, risks relating to variations in grade or recovery rates, risks relating to changes in mineral prices and the worldwide demand for and supply of minerals, risks related to increased competition and current global financial conditions, access and supply risks, reliance on key personnel, operational risks, regulatory risks, including risks relating to the acquisition of the necessary licenses and permits, financing, capitalization and liquidity risks, title and environmental risks.

The forward-looking information contained in this release is made as of the date hereof, and Warrior Gold 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.

____________________________

1 Data compiled by DigiGeoData Inc. from the Government of Ontario Mining Lands Administration System (MLAS)

2 https://www.agnicoeagle.com/English/exploration/exploration-projects/Kirkland-Lake-project/default.aspx

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005617/en/

Contacts:

For additional information please contact:

Daniele Spethmann, P.Geo.

President CEO

Warrior Gold Inc.

+1 647 344-3433

dspethmann@warriorgoldinc.com
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / BeMetals Corp. (TSXV:BMET), (OTCQB:BMTLF), (Frankfurt:1OI.F) (the "Company" or "BeMetals") is pleased to announce it has integrated recently received drone magnetic survey information with historical drill results that has generated several compelling drill targets at the Tashiro Gold Project ("Tashiro" or the "Project") in Kyushu. These new drill targets focus on testing and potentially extending at least two significant zones of vein-hosted gold mineralization at the Noya and Noya Southwest ("Noya SW") prospects on the Tashiro property.

HIGHLIGHTS OF TASHIRO PROJECT DRILL TARGETS:

Noya Prospect

Recently completed high-resolution drone magnetic survey both maps and extends target zone at Noya prospect

Historical results reported from drilling in 1990s indicate a high-grade epithermal gold vein zone

Gold mineralization target has a strike extent of over 1.5 kilometres, and includes the following selected historical drill intersections: 4MAKC-1: 63.90 grams per tonne ("g/t") gold ("Au") & 16.70 g/t silver ("Ag") over 0.47m 4MAKC-4: 28.60 g/t Au & 12.90 g/t Ag over 1.08m 7MAKN-4: 41.60 g/t Au & 28.40 g/t Ag over 0.30m



Noya SW Prospect

9MAKN-7: 1.67 g/t Au & 1.70 g/t Ag over 27.10m, Including: 3.38 g/t Au over 8.95m

3.38 g/t Au over 8.95m 9MAKN-8: 13.80 g/t Au & 16.70 g/t Ag over 1.30m

Note: Table 1 below provides details of these intersections, and Table 2 the other historical drill intersections within the Tashiro Project

John Wilton, President and CEO of BeMetals stated, "We are delighted with the interpretation of our recently completed airborne drone magnetic survey when combined with the historical drilling data at our Tashiro Project. The Tashiro property is located within the Northern Kyushu epithermal gold province. Importantly, certain features of this new magnetic data are consistent with the orientation of the main Noya prospect gold vein trend. Additionally, signatures in this data indicate the potential extension of this gold vein target zone to some 1.5 kilometres along strike."

Furthermore, on a recent field reconnaissance to the Tashiro Project area, Dr. Richard Sillitoe, world renowned economic geologist, and technical advisor to the Company, noted "Further drill testing of the Noya and Noya SW veins is clearly merited. The historical high-grade vein intersections are at vertical depths of approximately 175 to 200 metres below surface, thereby defining a clear initial depth target for the planned drilling."

John Wilton concluded, "The Company intends to schedule drill testing of the Tashiro Project later in the year after it has completed the current and planned phases of drilling at its Kato and Todoroki projects in Hokkaido, Japan."

TASHIRO GOLD PROJECT

The Tashiro Project is located in Oita Prefecture of central northeastern Kyushu (Figure 1). The Project is situated within the regional scale Hohi Graben, a major geological structure in this district that is associated with numerous historical gold mines and prospects known collectively as the Northern Kyushu epithermal gold province.

Figure 1: Location Map of Tashiro Gold Project, Kyushu, Japan

The high-grade quartz-gold veins of the Noya and Noya SW prospects within the Tashiro Project do not crop out. This area was initially explored for its geothermal energy potential with a single drill hole completed in 1952, and subsequently three more holes were completed in 1977. The existence of epithermal quartz-gold veins in this drill core, with associated intense alteration, was first recognised by Morishita & Takeno and reported in 1989 1 . Motivated by these reported observations and the detection of gold in assays for some of the drilled veins, the Metal Mining Agency of Japan ("MMAJ"), a Japanese state agency, conducted exploration at the Noya and Noya SW prospects (the "Prospects") between 1989 and 1994.

The drilling completed by MMAJ confirmed the development of an extensive epithermal gold system at the Prospects, with many of the hallmarks of such mineralization, such as typical quartz textures and associated trace elements.

Figure 2 below illustrates the location of MMAJ's drill holes and the interpreted approximate east-west strike of the Noya vein zone. This main Noya vein zone trend appears to be mapped by a coincident east-west oriented, magnetic low signature, interpreted to be related to an important controlling structural trend. The Company is intending to complete three to four drillholes to test the Noya and Noya SW prospects.

Figure 2. Drone Magnetic Data with Selected Historical Drill Intersections, Tashiro Gold Project, Kyushu, Japan

Table 1 below includes the details of the selected MMAJ drill intersections, associated with the main Noya vein zone, and the Noya SW prospects, with drilled widths and gold and silver grades. This series of relatively shallow depth below surface (approximately 175-200m), generally high-grade, gold intersections demonstrate the potential of this epithermal system to generate significant gold grades. This is an encouraging characteristic of these Prospects, motivating the future exploration drilling of the project.

Table 2 provides the gold and silver intersection results of all the remaining historical drill intersections at these two Prospects within the Tashiro Project area. These addition results demonstrate that even outside the initial targets of the main Noya vein zone and Noya SW prospects there is an extensive footprint to the gold mineralization.

Table 3 details of all the historical drill hole locations with; azimuth, dip, end of hole depth and collar coordinate information.

Table 1: Historical Selected Drill Hole Intersection Results

Drill hole and Interval From

(m) To

(m) Core Interval (m) Au g/t Ag g/t Noya 4MAKC-1 306.90 307.37 0.47 63.90 16.70 4MAKC-4 353.98 355.06 1.08 28.60 12.90 4MAKC-9 335.55 336.15 0.60 14.17 6.39 339.55 339.85 0.30 16.06 12.30 51WT-1 164.20 165.10 0.90 7.00 NA 201.00 201.50 0.50 20.00 NA 6MAKN-1 234.65 234.90 0.25 25.80 25.90 7MAKN-4 205.80 206.10 0.30 41.60 28.40 Noya SW 9MAKN-7 90.50 95.05 4.05* 1.48 3.47 121.30 148.40 27.10* 1.67 1.70 Including: 121.30 127.10 5.80 1.27 1.48 Including: 139.45 148.40 8.95 3.38 3.00 9MAKN-8 84.50 97.20 12.70* 1.13 3.27 119.60 120.90 1.30 13.80 16.70 184.40 188.90 4.50* 1.28 2.69

Table 1 Notes: These drill results are historical in nature. BeMetals has not undertaken any independent investigation of the sampling, nor has it independently analyzed the results of the historical exploration work in order to verify the results. BeMetals considers these historical drill results relevant as the Company will use this data as a guide to plan future exploration programs. The Company also considers the data to be reliable for these purposes however, the Company's future exploration work will include verification of the data through drilling. The reported results are drilled intersection widths as the orientation of the mineralized zones and their true thickness is currently not known. Intersections relate to individual samples, except for Noya SW prospect where composites* where calculated using a nominal cut-off grade of 0.5 g/t Au, with a maximum of 2.55 metres of internal dilution, to determine the boundaries of the intersections.

Table 2: Other Historical Drill Hole Intersection Results

Drill hole and Interval From (m) To (m) Core Interval (m) Au

g/t Ag

g/t 2MAKC-7 242.00 242.40 0.40 5.75 2.30 4MAKC-6 320.40 320.80 0.40 4.86 11.30 4MAKC-10 186.95 188.35 1.40 5.04 5.84 4MAKC-10 190.30 190.55 0.25 4.38 4.32 5MAKC-1 396.20 396.83 0.63 3.92 1.85 5MAKC-2 242.20 242.67 0.47 3.43 4.36 6MAKN-1 175.95 176.30 0.35 5.99 2.87 6MAKN-1 180.70 180.98 0.28 8.52 9.67 8MAKN-5 407.45 407.90 0.45 3.59 0.82 8MAKN-6 157.55 157.85 0.30 6.32 4.28 Drill holes: 53GO-1,3,4, 53NOY-2 & 27GS were geothermal holes not sampled for gold Drill holes: 4MAKC-2,3,5,7,8, 5MAKC-5, 6MAKN-2, 7MAKN-3, 51WT-2, 2MAKC-3,6, & 5MAKC-3,4 were reported as not returning any significant sampled gold mineralization

Table 2 Notes: These drill results are historical in nature. BeMetals has not undertaken any independent investigation of the sampling, nor has it independently analyzed the results of the historical exploration work in order to verify the results. BeMetals considers these historical drill results relevant as the Company will use this data as a guide to plan future exploration programs. The Company also considers the data to be reliable for these purposes however, the Company's future exploration work will include verification of the data through drilling. The reported results are drilled intersection widths as the orientation of the mineralized zones and their true thickness is currently not known. Intersections relate to individual samples.

Table 3: Historical Drill Hole ID, Azimuth, Dip, End of Hole Depth and Collar Coordinates

Drill Hole ID Azimuth Degree Dip Degree End of hole Depth (m) Easting (m) Northing (m) Elevation

(m) 53GO-1 0 -90 700 712068 3680695 620 55GO-3 0 -90 1085 711253 3681255 670 55GO-4 0 -90 510 711046 3681393 665 53NOY-2 0 -90 762 712156 3681128 650 2MAKC-7 0 -90 600 710706 3680674 650 4MAKC-1 360 -35 500 711666 3680474 670 4MAKC-2 360 -40 500 711435 3680805 640 4MAKC-3 180 -55 500 711294 3680623 660 4MAKC-4 180 -35 500 712016 3680952 660 4MAKC-5 180 -40 500 711915 3681144 685 4MAKC-6 180 -30 500 711599 3681358 675 4MAKC-7 0 -90 500 711566 3680787 675 4MAKC-8 187 -38 500 711895 3680884 620 4MAKC-9 165 -40 500 711565 3680690 670 4MAKC-10 20 -45 500 710687 3680682 620 5MAKC-1 150 -30 601 712228 3680906 620 5MAKC-2 360 -40 550 712228 3680906 590 5MAKC-5 340 -35 600 711919 3679839 655 6MAKN-2 345 -45 451 710891 3680667 600 7MAKN-3 211 -40 504 711570 3681024 630 8MAKN-5 50 -40 468 711139 3680990 670 8MAKN-6 345 -30 450 712098 3680795 615 27GS 0 -90 132 710770 3680008 550 51WT-1 360 -90 700 711429 3680685 660 51WT-2 0 -90 700 710474 3679851 585 2MAKC-3 169 -40 500 708655 3679210 540 2MAKC-6 0 -90 500 702895 3675026 510 5MAKC-3 300 -20 600 710258 3679618 590 5MAKC-4 20 -45 501 710258 3679618 600 6MAKN-1 020 -45 400 710891 3680666 650 7MAKN-4 180 -45 450 712228 3680906 600 9MAKN-7 020 -40 275 710544 3679730 580 9MAKN-8 075 -40 325 710544 3679730 580

The Company is currently exploring its highly prospective portfolio of five gold exploration projects in Japan. As exploration work and surveys over the entire BeMetals' portfolio of projects is advanced, the high quality and discovery potential of all of these projects becomes increasingly evident. The location of the projects is illustrated in Figure 3 below.

Figure 3. Location of BeMetals Kazan Gold Projects in Japan

QUALITY ASSURANCE AND QUALITY CONTROL

These drill results are historical in nature. BeMetals has not undertaken any independent investigation of the sampling, nor has it independently analyzed the results of the historical exploration work in order to verify the results. BeMetals considers these historical drill results relevant as the Company will use this data as a guide to plan future exploration programs. The Company also considers the data to be reliable for these purposes, however the Company's future exploration work at the Tashiro Project will include verification of the historical data through drilling.

REFERENCE

Morishita, Y. and Takeno, N. (1989) Gold mineralization in the Noya geothermal area, Ohita prefecture. Mining Geol., 39, 68.

ABOUT BEMETALS CORP.

BeMetals is a precious and base metals exploration and development company focused on becoming a leading metal producer through the acquisition of quality exploration, development and potentially production stage projects. The Company has established itself in the gold sector with the acquisition of a portfolio of wholly owned exploration projects in Japan. BeMetals is also progressing its tier-one targeted, Pangeni Copper Exploration Project in the prolific Zambian Copperbelt with co-funding investor the Japanese state agency JOGMEC ("Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security"). Guiding and leading BeMetals' growth strategy is a strong board and management team, founders and significant shareholders of the Company, who have an extensive proven record of delivering exceptional value in the mining sector, over many decades, through the discovery, construction and operation of mines around the world.

QUALIFIED PERSON STATEMENT

The technical information in this news release for BeMetals has been reviewed and approved by John Wilton, CGeol FGS, CEO and President of BeMetals, and a "Qualified Person" as defined under National Instrument 43-101.

ON BEHALF OF BEMETALS CORP.

"John Wilton"

John Wilton

President, CEO and Director

For further information about BeMetals please visit our website at bemetalscorp.com and sign-up to our email list to receive timely updates, or contact:

Derek Iwanaka

Vice President, Investor Relations & Corporate Development

Telephone: 604-928-2797

Email: diwanaka@bemetalscorp.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 news release

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" and "forward looking information" (as defined under applicable securities laws), based on management's best estimates, assumptions and current expectations. Such statements include but are not limited to, statements with respect to future exploration, development and advancement of the Kazan Projects in Japan and the Pangeni Project in Zambia, and the acquisition of additional base and/or precious metal projects. Generally, these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "expects", "expected", "budgeted", "forecasts", "anticipates", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "aims", "potential", "goal", "objective", "prospective", and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "can", "could" or "should" occur. These statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results. Such statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such statements, including but not limited to: the actual results of exploration activities, the availability of financing and/or cash flow to fund the current and future plans and expenditures, the ability of the Company to satisfy the conditions of the option agreement for the Pangeni Project, and changes in the world commodity markets or equity markets. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. The forward-looking statements and forward looking information are made as of the date hereof and are qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. The Company disclaims any obligation to revise or update any such factors or to publicly announce the result of any revisions to any forward-looking statements or forward looking information contained herein to reflect future results, events or developments, except as require by law. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and information. Please refer to the Company's most recent filings under its profile at www.sedar.com for further information respecting the risks affecting the Company and its business.

SOURCE: BeMetals Corp.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/749643/BeMetals-Generates-Priority-Drill-Targets-at-the-Tashiro-Gold-Project-Kyushu-Japan
Tomorrow April 19, Join ARway.ai CEO for livestream presentation

TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / ARway.ai ("ARway" or the "Company") (CSE:ARWY)(OTC PINK:ARWYF)(FSE:E65) is an AI powered Augmented Reality Experience platform with a disruptive no-code, no beacon spatial computing solution enabled by visual marker tracking with centimeter precision announces that ARway.ai's spatial computing technology was chosen with Snap and Magic Leap at the 2023 Harvard XR Hackathon, "The Dream/Hack" , presented by the Harvard Robotics Club and the Harvard AR/VR Club. The event, held from April 14-16 at Harvard University in Boston, MA featured creators, business leaders, domain experts, designers, developers, product managers and more highlighting creativity and exploration in the industry. The event enabled participants to explore business opportunities in the metaverse with various AR/VR technologies with no prior experience required, making ARway's technology a perfect application.

The Hackathon event took place at the prestigious Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering & Applied Sciences, attracting interest from all over the world. At the event, hackers worked on developing cutting-edge XR solutions to tackle complex global issues, ranging from education to climate change. ARway hosted a workshop aimed at educating students about their platform's capabilities. The platform was praised for its ability to facilitate navigation for individuals with disabilities. By the end of the Hackathon, participants had gained a deeper understanding of XR tools that can be used for a variety of purposes. Overall, the event was a great success and showcased the potential for XR technology to positively impact society in a meaningful way.

ARway.ai is disrupting the Global $44 Billion Indoor Positioning and Indoor Navigation Market (IPIN) with its no-code, no beacon AI-powered platform that provides augmented reality experiences for indoor spaces. The platform allows users to easily create experiences for navigation, tours, information sharing, notifications, advertising, and gamification. ARway leverages the power of mobile devices to create environments that can improve visitor experience, boost employee productivity, increase engagement, create new advertising space, and boost revenues.

About the Hardward Dream/Hack

The Harvard Dream Hack is an be an action-packed, student-first event. Attendees will learn the basics of AR and VR development and create their own experience by the end of the hackathon. No prior programming experience required! Harvard XR Hackthon is run by Harvard AR/VR Club. By connecting students and alumni with investors and industry leaders in the XR and metaverse, their goal is to enable participants to explore the technology and business opportunities in the metaverse.

Proactive Investors Livestream



Tomorrow Wednesday April 19 at 2pm ET / 11am PT, CEO Evan Gappelberg will join Proactive Investors for an exclusive livestream event, where he will discuss ARway.ai updates and hold a question & answer period with investors.

He will be joined by Shadnam Khan, Chief Product Officer for an ARway demo and presentation.

Date: Wednesday, April 19, 2023

Time: 2:00pm ET / 11:00am PT

Link to join: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2z7f3ps0LGk

Recent News

ARway.ai Closes Annual Partner Licence and Sees Demand Ramp Up

ARway.ai Unveils SDK 2.3 With Significant Enhanced AI-Features and AR Experiences, Opening Up New Markets

ARway Secures Multiple New SDK Deals to Drive Growth in $44B Indoor Positioning and Navigation Market

ARway.ai Unveils Patent-Pending AI-powered 3D Digital Twin Floor Plan Generation Technology to Capture a Share of the $44 Billion Indoor Navigation Market

To learn more about ARway, please follow on Social Media: Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook, and visit our website: www.arway.ai

About ARway.ai

ARway is an AI-powered platform that provides augmented reality experiences for indoor spaces. The platform allows users to easily create experiences for navigation, tours, information sharing, notifications, advertising, and gamification. ARway leverages the power of mobile devices to create environments that can improve visitor experience, boost employee productivity, increase engagement, create new advertising space, and boost revenues. Visitors can scan a QR code to access a venue map, navigate to any point of interest with step-by-step directions, learn information about those POIs, and interact with rich AR content and experiences along the way. ARway has unlimited use cases for augmenting physical spaces in the metaverse, making it a valuable tool for creators, brands, and companies in various industries. The complete ARway platform includes: the Web Creator Studio, the ARwayKit Software Development Kit (SDK) and a mobile app for iOs and Android.

Nextech 3D.ai

On October 26, 2022, ARway.ai. was spun-out from its parent Company, Nextech3D.ai (OTCQX: NEXCF) (CSE: NTAR) (FSE: EP2). Nextech retained a control ownership in ARway.ai. with 13 million shares, or a 50% stake. Nextech3D.ai is a Metaverse Company and leading provider of augmented reality ("AR") experience technologies and 3D model services. Nextech's AI-powered 3D modeling platform, "ARitize3D" has contracts with; AMZN, KSS, CB2, Genuine Parts & many others. To learn more about Nextech3D.ai, visit www.nextechar.com

For further information, please contact:

Investor Relations Contact

Julia Viola

investor.relations@arway.ai



ARway.ai

Evan Gappelberg

CEO and Director

866-ARITIZE (274-8493)

Forward-looking Statements

The CSE has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Certain information contained herein may constitute "forward-looking information" under Canadian securities legislation. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as, "will be" or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "will" occur. Forward-looking statements regarding the completion of the transaction are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. ARway.ai will not update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information that are incorporated by reference herein, except as required by applicable securities laws.

SOURCE: ARway Corporation

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/749696/Harvard-University-Robotics-and-ARVR-Workshops-Showcase-ARwayai-Snap-and-Magic-Leaps-Spatial-Computing-and-AR-Platforms-Capabilities
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - April 18, 2023) - Silver Hammer Mining Corp. (CSE: HAMR) (OTCQB: HAMRF) (FSE: 7BW0) (the "Company" or "Silver Hammer") is pleased to announced that it has engaged Precision GeoSurveys for property-wide airborne magnetic and radiometric surveys at both the Eliza and Silverton Projects in Nevada.

"As we continue to advance our Eliza and Silverton projects, we are pleased to engage Precision for the upcoming airborne magnetic and radiometric surveys in May and June 2023," commented President & CEO Peter A. Ball. "These surveys will provide us with an additional layer of technical data to assist in refining our currently identified priority targets prior to the execution of a drill program at each project. Our systematic approach to exploration and drill targeting, as well as taking the time to fully understand the multiple layers of technical data, will result in the increased potential for an exciting new discovery in 2023 as we strive to deliver significant value to our shareholders."

Survey Highlights

The helicopter supported surveys will use magnetic sensors flown in non-magnetic and non-conductive nose stinger configuration, with gamma sensors internal to the aircraft away from variable fuel cell attenuation, to allow for reduced terrain clearance minimizing noise and improving resolution and accuracy.

Eliza Project (refer to Figure 1):

269 total line kilometres

50 metre line spacing

12.1 square kilometres coverage

Silverton Project (refer to Figure 2):

82 total line kilometres

50 metre line spacing

3.6 square kilometres coverage

Figure 1. Eliza Project Airborne Survey Map



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9597/162753_51f11459645d0929_001full.jpg

Figure 2. Silverton Project Airborne Survey Map



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9597/162753_51f11459645d0929_002full.jpg

About Precision

Precision GeoSurveys is a full-service airborne geophysical contractor and industry leader in providing high resolution surveys in mountainous and remote terrain having acquired and processed high resolution multi-sensor airborne geophysical data in mountainous terrain on over 700 surveys since 2007. The company utilizes state-of-the-art geophysical instrumentation attached directly to the helicopter. The magnetic sensors are flown in a non-magnetic and non-conductive nose stinger configuration, and the gamma sensors are flown internal to the aircraft away from variable fuel cell attenuation. Compared to conventional slung bird-type survey systems, this innovative design allows the survey to be safely flown at reduced terrain clearance to minimize noise, improve resolution, and reduce the need for complex corrections to the data. The geophysical data and maps will be prepared using industry standard Geosoft algorithms and mapping software to show the geomagnetic and radiometric properties of the survey area.

Qualified Person

Technical aspects of this press release have been reviewed and approved under the supervision of Philip Mulholland, P.Geo. Mr. Mulholland is a Qualified Person (QP) under National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

About Silver Hammer Mining Corp.

Silver Hammer Mining Corp. is a junior resource exploration company advancing its flagship past-producing Silver Strand Mine in the Coeur d'Alene Mining District in Idaho, as well both the Eliza Silver Project and the Silverton Silver Mine in one of the world's most prolific mining jurisdictions in Nevada. Silver Hammer's primary focus is defining and developing silver deposits near past-producing mines that have not been adequately explored. The Company's portfolio also provides exposure to copper and gold discoveries.

On Behalf of the Board of Silver Hammer Mining Corp.

Peter A. Ball

President & CEO, Director

E: peter@silverhammermining.com

For investor relations inquiries, contact:

Kristina Pillon

High Tide Consulting Corp.

T: 604.908.1695

E: investors@silverhammermining.com

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. Such forward-looking statements concern, without limitation, the Company's strategic plans, timing and expectations for the Company's exploration and drilling programs, estimates of mineralization from drilling, geological information projected from sampling results and the potential quantities and grades of the target zones. Such forward-looking statements or information are based on a number of assumptions, which may prove to be incorrect. Assumptions have been made regarding, among other things: conditions in general economic and financial markets; accuracy of assay results; geological interpretations from drilling results, timing and amount of capital expenditures; performance of available laboratory and other related services; future operating costs; and the historical basis for current estimates of potential quantities and grades of target zones. The actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of risk factors, including the timing and content of work programs; results of exploration activities and development of mineral properties; the interpretation and uncertainties of drilling results and other geological data; receipt, maintenance and security of permits and mineral property titles; environmental and other regulatory risks; project costs overruns or unanticipated costs and expenses; availability of funds; failure to delineate potential quantities and grades of the target zones based on historical data, and general market and industry conditions. Forward-looking statements are based on the expectations and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made. The assumptions used in the preparation of such statements, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date the statements were made. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements included in this news release if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as otherwise required by applicable law.

The CSE does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. The Canadian Securities Exchange has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/162753
Kelowna, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - April 18, 2023) - F3 Uranium Corp. (TSXV: FUU) (OTCQB: FUUFF) ("F3 Uranium" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has entered into an agreement with Red Cloud Securities Inc., as lead underwriter and sole bookrunner, on behalf of a syndicate of underwriters (collectively, the "Underwriters"), pursuant to which the Underwriters have agreed to purchase for resale 17,021,277 flow-through units of the Company (each, a "FT Unit") at a price of C$0.47 per FT Unit (the "Offering Price") on a "bought deal" basis in a private placement for gross proceeds of C$8,000,000 (the "Underwritten Offering").

Each FT Unit will consist of one common share of the Company (each, a "Common Share") to be issued as a "flow-through share" within the meaning of the Income Tax Act (Canada) (each, a "FT Share") and one half of one Common Share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a "Warrant"). Each whole Warrant shall entitle the holder to purchase one Common Share at a price of C$0.47 at any time on or before that date which is 36 months after the Closing Date (as herein defined).

The Company will grant to the Underwriters an option, exercisable up to 48 hours prior to the Closing Date (as defined below), to purchase for resale up to an additional 4,255,319 FT Units (the "Over-Allotment Units") at the Offering Price for additional gross proceeds of up to C$2,000,000 (the "Over-Allotment Option", and together with the Underwritten Offering, the "Offering").

The Company will have the right to include a list of subscribers to purchase up to 531,914 FT Units at the Offering Price for gross proceeds of up to C$250,000 under the Offering (the "President's List"). The President's List will be allocated under the Over-Allotment Option and, for greater certainty, all purchasers under the Over-Allotment Option will receive Over-Allotment Units on the terms of the Offering and subject to certain resale restrictions as described below.

A total of 10,638,298 FT Units under the Underwritten Offering will be offered by way of the "listed issuer" exemption under National Instrument 45-106 - Prospectus Exemptions in all the provinces of Canada with the exception of Quebec (the "Selling Jurisdictions"). The Common Shares issuable from the sale of these 10,638,298 FT Units are expected to be immediately freely tradeable under applicable Canadian securities legislation if sold to purchasers resident in Canada. The remaining 6,382,979 FT Units to be sold under the Underwritten Offering as well as the Over-Allotment Units will be offered by way of the "accredited investor" and minimum amount investment" exemptions under National Instrument 45-106 - Prospectus Exemptions in the Selling Jurisdictions. The Common Shares issuable from the sale of these 6,382,979 FT Units as well as the Over-Allotment Units will be subject to a restricted period in Canada ending on the date that is four months plus one day following the closing of the Offering as defined in Subsection 2.5(2) of Multilateral Instrument 45-102 - Resale of Securities.

The Offering is expected to close on May 26, 2023 (the "Closing Date"). The Company will pay to the Underwriters a cash commission of 6.0% of the gross proceeds raised in respect of the Offering (the "Underwriters' Commission"). In addition, the Company will issue to the Underwriters warrants of the Company (each warrant, a "Broker Warrant"), exercisable for a period of 24 months following the Closing Date, to acquire in aggregate that number of Common Shares which is equal to 6.0% of the number of FT Units sold under the Offering at an exercise price equal to C$0.35 per Common Share.

All FT Units sold to purchasers under the President's List will be subject to a reduced Underwriters' Commission of 3.0% and that number of Broker Warrants equal to 3.0% of the number of FT Units sold to purchasers under the President's List.

The proceeds of the Offering will be used by the Company to fund exploration of the Company's projects in the Athabasca Basin.

There is an offering document related to the Offering that can be accessed under the Company's profile at www.sedar.com and at the Company's website at www.f3uranium.com. Prospective investors should read this offering document before making an investment decision.

About F3 Uranium Corp.

F3 Uranium is a uranium project generator and exploration company, focusing on projects in the Athabasca Basin, home to some of the world's largest high grade uranium discovery. F3 Uranium currently has 16 projects in the Athabasca Basin. Several of F3's projects are near large uranium discoveries including Triple R, Arrow, and Hurricane.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

"Dev Randhawa"

Dev Randhawa, CEO

The TSX Venture Exchange and the Canadian Securities Exchange have not reviewed, approved or disapproved the contents of this press release, and do not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Statement: F3 Uranium Corp.

This press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian and United States securities laws, which is based upon the Company's current internal expectations, estimates, projections, assumptions and beliefs. The forward-looking information included in this press release are made only as of the date of this press release. Such forward-looking statements and forward-looking information include, but are not limited to, statements concerning the Company's expectations with respect to the Offering; the use of proceeds of the Offering; completion of the Offering and the date of such completion. Forward-looking statements or forward-looking information relate to future events and future performance and include statements regarding the expectations and beliefs of management based on information currently available to the Company. Such forward-looking statements and forward-looking information often, but not always, can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "potential", "is expected", "anticipated", "is targeted", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", or "believes" or the negatives thereof or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved.

Forward-looking statements or forward-looking information are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those reflected in the forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, including, without limitation, risks and uncertainties relating to: general business and economic conditions; regulatory approval for the Offering; completion of the Offering; changes in commodity prices; the supply and demand for, deliveries of, and the level and volatility of the price of nickel and other metals; changes in project parameters as exploration plans continue to be refined; costs of exploration including labour and equipment costs; risks and uncertainties related to the ability to obtain or maintain necessary licenses, permits or surface rights; changes in credit market conditions and conditions in financial markets generally; the ability to procure equipment and operating supplies in sufficient quantities and on a timely basis; the availability of qualified employees and contractors; the impact of value of the Canadian dollar and U.S. dollar, foreign exchange rates on costs and financial results; market competition; exploration results not being consistent with the Company's expectations; changes in taxation rates or policies; technical difficulties in connection with mining activities; changes in environmental regulation; environmental compliance issues; other risks of the mining industry; and risks related to the effects of COVID-19. Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that could cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. For more information on the Company and the risks and challenges of its business, investors should review the Company's annual filings that are available at www.sedar.com. The forward-looking statements included in this press release are made as of the date of this press release and F3 Uranium Corp. disclaim any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable securities legislation.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/162824
BUCHAREST, Romania, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Fintech Media Advertising SA is a Romanian startup that specializes in performance marketing for financial companies, including Neo Banks and investment platforms. The company was founded in 2020, during the Covid-19 pandemic, when many talented individuals were left without jobs due to widespread layoffs and closures.

Founder Marco Salzillo, an expert in performance marketing, utilized his extensive experience in online advertising to establish Fintech Media Advertising SA. "Our company's unique approach is based entirely on artificial intelligence (A.I.), making it the first of its kind in Europe."

Fintech Media Advertising offers investment platforms and Neo Banks the possibility of to communicate efficiently with generations of future customers, i.e. millennials and generation Z, through social media and the new means of communication.

The real innovation the company brings, is a glimpse of what the future will look like in complete absence of personnel which has instead been supplanted by algorithms and artificial intelligence. As stated by Iulian-Vladut Lungu, CFO of the company; "thanks to the investments we make every day in improving our propetary A.I., we managed in a short time to enter among the 50 most important companies in terms of profit in the marketing sector of Romania and also In the second half of 2023, the company will be listed on the Bucharest Stock Exchange, a major milestone that will allow the company to access greater liquidity to develop new functions and advertising campaigns with greater impact for our customers."

Now one might think that on the one hand this company is bringing a future way of working with a few employees who go to the office replaced by a mega computer and if on the one hand it is as fascinating as an Isaac Asimov novel on the other hand it is also worrying how the advent of a similar technology can impact the job market as we have always thought.

With regard to this point, the position of Nevio Traverso, CMO of the company, is very interesting as he claims that he wants to give a clear identity to the company; " I strongly believe that the profits we generate from our company are really high in terms of % precisely because of the lack of fixed costs such as employees but this also has a social impact in terms of income for families, therefore our goal is to switch to a model of Humanistic economy where the company should not be evaluated only in terms of economic balance but above all as a social balance and for the number of people we are able to help and redistribute the wealth in services for the less well-off classes. For this reason we want to become a meeting point between financial market investors and companies operating in the Volunteer sector, to attract capital that is used to generate income and dividends for shareholders but at the same time reinvest part of the profits to support non-profit organizations selected to cover all the critical areas that are mainly affected."

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/fintech-media-advertising---the-first-eu-company-fully-based-on-ai-301800230.html
Repurposing Facility to Produce Renewable Natural Gas from Wood Waste

LAKEVIEW, OR / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Lakeview RNG, a wholly owned subsidiary of NEXT Renewable Fuels ("NEXT"), has acquired assets associated with the Red Rock Biofuels development in Lake County, OR effective Friday, April 14, 2023. Lakeview RNG is commencing a redevelopment plan focused on completing construction of certain aspects of the site while replacing or enhancing others. When complete, the Lakeview RNG facility is expected to be capable of converting forest waste into renewable natural gas ("RNG") and clean hydrogen.

"Acquiring the Lake County clean fuels infrastructure is another advancement in our mission to decarbonize the transportation industry and produce low carbon fuels at scale," said Christopher Efird, CEO and Chairperson of NEXT. "This acquisition represents a major step toward our clean fuel production capabilities and pathways to meet growing demand for clean fuels along the west coast of the United States while helping to address the critical concern of forest health."

Lakeview RNG will use wood waste, or "slash," as the feedstock. Wood waste can come from activities like forest thinning, logging, and wildfire management activities on private and state lands. Today, that waste is largely burned in open slash piles, and the subsequent black carbon lands in rivers, on snowpack, and in the community's lungs. Instead, Lakeview RNG will process that wood waste and turn it into a low-carbon gaseous fuel, benefitting environmental and community health in southern Oregon and beyond.

"Lakeview RNG acquiring Lake County's clean fuels facility is fantastic news for our region," celebrated State Senator Lynn Findley. "Lakeview RNG will bring the promised jobs and tax revenue to the county while finding a clean fuel benefit to our state's wildfire mitigation efforts."

Senator Findley isn't the only one celebrating. Local Lake County residents and leaders are pleased that the facility has new life, and that the promises of economic development will finally be realized.

"We have been anxiously awaiting this day and are very happy that the facility will be put into operation rather than sold for parts," said Michele Parry, Lakeview City Manager. "Lakeview's location is strategically important because of our proximity to regenerative feedstock sources and to the pipeline distribution system that can get the clean fuels to market."

Lakeview RNG has evaluated the potential feedstock supply in Oregon and determined that all of its wood waste needs could come from within 150 miles of the facility. Wood waste used at the facility will be certified and compliant with applicable regulations for RNG production. Converting forest waste to renewable fuel products helps reduce forest fire fuel loads and provide an additional revenue source to timber communities. The local distribution network in Lake County is anchored by the Ruby pipeline and can deliver renewable fuels to transportation markets in Oregon and along the west coast.

The purchase price of the facility has not been disclosed.

MEDIA CONTACT

Michael Hinrichs

805-453-1346

michael@nxtclean.com

About NEXT

NEXT is a next generation fuels company dedicated to sustainably producing clean, low-carbon fuels. The company is permitting and developing a 50,000 barrel-per-day / 750 million gallon-per-year Renewable Diesel ("RD") / Sustainable Aviation Fuel ("SAF") refinery in Oregon with easy multi-modal access to the West Coast demand markets. The project is advancing through permitting and expects to begin construction upon completion of an Environmental Impact Statement currently underway with the US Army Corp of Engineers. RD and SAF are high-margin liquid transportation fuels worldwide and there is an urgent global demand for increased supply. To learn more about NEXT, please visit www.nextrenewables.com.

NEXT Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in press release are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements may generally be identified by the use of words such as "believe," "may," "will," "estimate," "continue," "intend," "expect," "should," "would," "plan," "project," "forecast," "predict," "potential," "seem," "seek," "future," "outlook," "target" or other similar 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 estimates and forecasts of other financial and performance metrics, projections of market opportunity and market share. These statements are based on various assumptions, whether or not identified in this press release, and on the current expectations of NEXT's 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 may differ from assumptions, and such differences may be material. Many actual events and circumstances are beyond the control of NEXT. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including changes in domestic and foreign business, market, financial, political and legal conditions, including the risk that any required regulatory approvals are not obtained, are delayed, or are subject to unanticipated conditions that could adversely affect the actual results; risks relating to the availability and cost of the forest product feedstocks; risks as to the ability of NEXT to operate the facility and produce RNG and clean hydrogen profitably, risks relating to the construction of the production facility for the production of RNG and clean hydrogen, including risks relating to the need to obtain the necessary financing for this project as well as NEXT's proposed biofuel refinery with a focus on renewable fuel; risks related to the rollout of NEXT's business and the timing of expected business milestones; the effects of competition on NEXT's business. If any of these risks materialize or NEXT's assumptions prove incorrect, actual results could differ materially from the results implied by these forward-looking statements. There may be additional risks that NEXT presently does not know or that NEXT currently does not believe are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements reflect NEXT's expectations, plans or forecasts of future events and views as of the date of this press release. NEXT anticipates that subsequent events and developments will cause NEXT's assessments to change. However, while NEXT may elect to update these forward-looking statements at some point in the future, NEXT specifically disclaim any obligation to do so. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing NEXT's assessments as of any date after the date of this press release. Accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed upon the forward-looking statements. Neither NEXT nor any of its affiliates have any obligation to update this press release.

###

SOURCE: NEXT Renewable Fuels

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/749709/NEXT-Renewable-Fuels-Inc-Acquires-Southern-Oregon-Clean-Fuels-Assets
1E and Wakefield Research determine more than half of IT workers would turn down an otherwise desirable position if they knew the company used surveillance technology

Over the last several years, tools for monitoring employee productivity and tracking remote activity have become more common among businesses-with 79 percent of companies not already using these tools expected to implement them in the next three years. 1E, a leader in Digital Employee Experience (DEX), today unveiled results from its Employee Surveillance Survey that sheds light on the ongoing debate about employee monitoring tools-showing that these tools are better left behind.

Though most employees surveyed already work for companies that use productivity surveillance technology, 73 percent of IT managers revealed they wouldn't be comfortable instructing their staff to deploy it-especially if the company is not being fully transparent. Further, more than a quarter of IT managers indicate an uptick in employees quitting (28%) and difficulty hiring new employees (27%) when these tools are in use.

Conducted by Wakefield Research, 1E's Employee Surveillance Survey reveals the realities behind how employees feel about using employee productivity surveillance technology (EPST) and how such tools drastically change workplace dynamics. The report draws from a survey of 1,000 respondents-500 IT managers and 500 non-manager IT workers in the U.S.

"Even before conducting this survey, we understood that workplace surveillance is a controversial topic among employees and leaders alike. However, research-both ours and previous-shows that this tactic does far more harm to culture and reputation than good," said Mark Banfield, CEO of 1E. "In today's environment, employees require a certain level of trust from their employers. Deploying these surveillance tools negates confidence in leadership and puts IT managers in an unfair position, all for productivity theater. There are better ways to spark productivity that should be explored before turning to surveillance tools."

Companies that Hide Surveillance Technology Lose out on Top Talent

In today's competitive job market, it's more important than ever for business leaders to understand how IT teams will react to deploying surveillance tools. With more than half of IT workers (52%) acknowledging they would turn down an otherwise desirable position if they knew the company used employee productivity surveillance technology-the new data should provoke pause from business leaders. Of those who are not currently at a company using productivity surveillance technology, three-quarters of IT workers say requiring them to deploy it to track other employees would negatively impact their willingness to remain in their current position. In fact, 30 percent would begin actively applying for different jobs, and three percent would immediately quit. Furthermore, 2 in 5 IT workers say it would make them more open to other offers, making them an easy target for recruiters actively seeking to fill their open IT positions.

The Pressure Surveillance Technology Puts on IT Managers

Productivity surveillance technology puts managers in a tough spot and forces them to decide if it is morally right to monitor colleagues' work. Most IT managers wouldn't force their staff to deploy the technology if they refused, and many would raise their concerns with senior leadership. What's more alarming, once surveillance technology is deployed, IT workers have a strong desire to defy company policy to inform colleagues about it-72 percent would even help coworkers find workarounds-which creates another hoop for managers to work through. With a third of IT managers viewing the technology as an invasion of privacy, the pushback will continue until leaders stop putting their mid-level leaders in sticky situations.

IT Workers See Surveillance Tools as "Big Brother"

Implementing employee productivity surveillance technology makes most IT workers uneasy-and for good reason. More than a quarter of IT workers (27%) would raise concerns with leadership before complying with a request to deploy such technology and monitor their colleagues, while 5 percent would outright refuse. Below is a breakdown of how surveillance tools affect workers' mental health and their feelings toward company culture. Since EPST was implemented at their company:

26 percent of IT workers saw a decrease in morale

30 percent of IT workers saw an increase in employee anxiety

28 percent of IT workers saw faster employee burnout

The data show the deep and complicated feelings IT professionals have about what is, essentially, spying.

To learn more about these findings, please download the report here.

About the Methodology

Wakefield Research conducted the 1E Employee Surveillance Survey online, by email invite-only, in two parts (IT workers and IT managers) in February 2023. The IT workers sample included 500 U.S. IT workers employed full-time, in non-management roles, at companies with 500 or more employees. The second part sampled 500 U.S. IT managers, with a minimum seniority of manager, at companies with 500 or more employees. The results of the survey carry a 95% confidence interval and a margin of error of 4.4 percentage points per audience.

About 1E

What if each digital employee experience (DEX) was better than the last? The 1E platform helps IT teams improve end user experience, tighten security, reduce costs, and evolve operations from cost center to strategic enabler. Over one-third of the Fortune 100 rely on 1E's single-agent solution with real-time automation and remediation for more visibility, control, compliance, and observability. Now, all operations teams can provide exceptional employee experiences, increase IT efficiency, and reduce service delivery time. For more information, visit 1E.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005244/en/

Contacts:

Cara DiFabio, Inkhouse for 1E

1E@inkhouse.com
Completeness of solution and ease of deployment helps fuel "IoT for Good" project growth

ATLANTA, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- KORE, a global leader in Internet of Things ("IoT") Solutions and pioneering IoT hyperscaler, and provider of IoT Connectivity, Solutions and Analytics, announced today its role in providing scalable, global IoT Connectivity to Syngenta to power a large-scale biodiversity project.





Climate change and overuse of the planet's resources have taken a toll on biodiversity, with an estimated two-thirds decline in the global wildlife population over the last 50 years, according to reports published by the World Economic Forum.

Agriculture is dependent on a healthy, natural ecosystem supported by biodiversity. Without robust biodiversity, disease can flourish, harming crops and livestock, and soil quality can also be adversely impacted.

"The data that is available through IoT solutions is incredible, and this in turn enables better analytics and incredible insights," KORE President and CEO Romil Bahl said. "Syngenta is making massive strides in tackling a major crisis in agriculture and KORE is grateful we can provide our resilient, global IoT connectivity to reliably connect these solutions in a lasting, scalable manner."

Syngenta's mission is to digitally connect farmlands across the globe to provide farmers with comprehensive analytics through its Biodiversity Sensor Project, which is intended to determine how agricultural practices and products can be used to protect biodiversity and, in turn, learn how biodiversity can be enhanced to protect crops.

"Our work helps farmers face the challenges of today's changing world. Farmers must adapt to the effects of climate change, improve soil and enhance biodiversity, and respond to society's views on food and agricultural technology," said Kiran Joseph, Digital Product Manager of Sustainability for Syngenta.

Part of that is implementing the biodiversity sensors in farmland across the globe. According to Joseph, Syngenta has already surpassed 200 hectares of digitally connected land last year, and those devices are already sharing information on the farmlands, the farming practices and the crops that they have.

The goal is to reach 1 billion hectares over the next two to three years, and KORE has been a vital part of this initiative, providing global SIM cards through multiple connectivity carriers and also helping build a complete strategy through a unified, affordable approach to a complex global IoT connectivity solution.

Join KORE and Syngenta in a webinar discussing the value of IoT in agriculture and farming solutions. Join "Promoting Sustainable Agriculture Through IoT" on April 25 at 10 a.m. ET/3 p.m. GMT.

About KORE

KORE is a pioneer, leader, and trusted advisor delivering mission critical IoT solutions and services. We empower organizations of all sizes to improve operational and business results by simplifying the complexity of IoT. Our deep IoT knowledge and experience, global reach, purpose-built solutions, and deployment agility accelerate and materially impact our customers' business outcomes. For more information, visit korewireless.com.

KORE Investors Contact:

Charley Brady

Vice President, Investor Relations

investors@korewireless.com

+1-678-392-2335

KORE Media Contact:

Alisa Moloney

Senior Director of Marketing

Email: amoloney@korewireless.com

+1-770-365-8382

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1571455/KORE_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/kore-supports-syngenta-agriculture-biodiversity-initiative-301799360.html
ZUG, Switzerland, April 18, 2023, the non-profit entity overseeing the development of Aleph Zero, a public, permissionless, and leaderless blockchain boasting ink! WebAssembly.



The grant recipients will receive up to $500,000 per project in grant funding, and gain exclusive access to Aleph Zero's venture capital pool. Aleph Zero's partner, Kudelski Security, will also provide free or heavily-subsidized security design consultations and code audits, while Amazon Web Services will provide infrastructure credits to selected teams and projects via its Activate program. Core developer of Aleph Zero, Cardinal Cryptography, will assist with research and development as well as token economy design. In addition, the Aleph Zero partner network will provide marketing, branding, UX, product design, and operational support as needed.

"The Aleph Zero Foundation is thrilled to announce the launch of the Ecosystem Funding Program, a monumental step forward towards empowering projects to build on Aleph Zero. Project ideas can range from proof-of-concept and other early-stage companies to experienced teams with solutions deployed on different platforms," said Magdalena Oleksy, Ecosystem Lead. "The Foundation is particularly interested in supporting teams that are focused on use cases in DeFi and broader economic empowerment, but we're open to assisting ambitious teams from all verticals. Applications showcasing Aleph Zero's unique features and focused on compliant privacy solutions are of particular interest. The Foundation is also eager to support various network improvements and tooling for the WASM ink! ecosystem."

With the recent release of ink! 4.0 smart contracts on Aleph Zero Mainnet, Aleph Zero is ready to house new dApps. With around 30 different products already in development, Aleph Zero Foundation is keen to provide more resources to its developer community. To date, a number of projects are being built under the Ecosystem Funding Program's pilot program, such as:

Abax (https://abax.finance/) : A decentralized lending and borrowing protocol boasting an innovative position risk model;

(https://abax.finance/) A decentralized lending and borrowing protocol boasting an innovative position risk model; ArtZero (https://artzero.io/) : An NFT marketplace built on Aleph Zero that grants users quick and easy access to digital collectibles;

(https://artzero.io/) An NFT marketplace built on Aleph Zero that grants users quick and easy access to digital collectibles; AZERO Domains (https://alephzero.org/ecosystem/azero-domains) : A leading domain name service on Aleph Zero;

(https://alephzero.org/ecosystem/azero-domains) A leading domain name service on Aleph Zero; DRKVRS (https://alephzero.org/ecosystem/drkvrs) : A unique, dark metaverse experience designed by world-renowned writers and producers.

(https://alephzero.org/ecosystem/drkvrs) A unique, dark metaverse experience designed by world-renowned writers and producers. Gatenox (https://gatenox.com/) : An enterprise-grade decentralized identity platform that allows exchanges, applications, Web 3.0 services, as well as fintechs and banks to integrate a seamless, near-zero cost, instant Know-Your-Customer (KYC), Anti-Money Laundering (AML), and Customer Due Diligence (CDD) processes. Gatenox raised $2.5m in their seed funding round.

(https://gatenox.com/) An enterprise-grade decentralized identity platform that allows exchanges, applications, Web 3.0 services, as well as fintechs and banks to integrate a seamless, near-zero cost, instant Know-Your-Customer (KYC), Anti-Money Laundering (AML), and Customer Due Diligence (CDD) processes. Gatenox raised $2.5m in their seed funding round. Interlock (https://interlock.network/) : A decentralized security platform that delivers Web3-centered solutions to combat cybercrime by allowing users to share anonymized data regarding online threats and rewards them through Interlock's native token. Interlock is currently closing its seed funding round.

(https://interlock.network/) A decentralized security platform that delivers Web3-centered solutions to combat cybercrime by allowing users to share anonymized data regarding online threats and rewards them through Interlock's native token. Interlock is currently closing its seed funding round. Syncra (https://syncra.xyz/) : A no-code solution for creating privacy-enhanced DAOs using Aleph Zero and Liminal.

(https://syncra.xyz/) A no-code solution for creating privacy-enhanced DAOs using Aleph Zero and Liminal. Metamask Snap (https://metamask.io/news/developers/aleph-zero-snap-onboarding-web-3-users-to-aleph-zero-network/): A dedicated Snap to onboard users to the Aleph Zero network.

"Our experience in Aleph Zero's Ecosystem Funding Program has been invaluable. The grant and guidance have enabled us to code and audit our smart contracts with ease, which set us up for a successful token and product launch," said Andrew Ciaccia, Co-founder and CMO of Interlock . "The consulting and feedback we received have been immensely helpful in refining our DeFi security products."

"We're excited to support the Ecosystem Funding Program and have already made contributions to a number of Aleph Zero projects', says Maciej Skrzypczak, partner at Block54 Capital and advisor to the Aleph Zero team. "With prior experience in building and exiting companies, as well as working with a number of enterprise customers, we're looking to support developers holistically-beyond simply providing funding."

In addition to the Aleph Zero Foundation, the Ecosystem Funding Program is also backed by other long-term contributors to the project, such as Skynet Trading, NxGen, Diamond Atlas Capital, BlackDragon, Necker Ventures, Block54 Capital, Hodl.nl and Hodl Ventures, Pragma Ventures, RR2 Capital, Cardinal Cryptography and Cardinal Ventures, Bellwether Rocks, Offbeat Ventures, 727 Ventures, and others, as well as Aleph Zero core developers and a number of angel investors.

Participating VCs and angel investors will have the opportunity to engage with teams individually, and make future independent decisions with ecosystem projects. The Aleph Zero Foundation and its partner network aim to fund and empower innovations from developer teams that expand the capabilities, functionalities, and adoption of the Aleph Zero blockchain.

About Aleph Zero Foundation

The Aleph Zero Foundation oversees the research and development of the Aleph Zero blockchain, promotes its use, and funds ambitious teams seeking to bring innovative projects to the Aleph Zero community.

About Aleph Zero

Aleph Zero is a public, permissionless, and leaderless layer 1 blockchain built for use cases focused on optimal security, speed, and scalability. Aleph Zero can also support a variety of privacy-enhanced use cases through its Liminal technology. The goal of the platform is to enable builders from all verticals to benefit from a fundamentally improved distributed ledger design.

For media inquiries,

Ana Lezama

ana@serotonin.co
WILMINGTON, DE / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / The Chemours Company ("Chemours") (NYSE:CC), a global chemistry company, with First Community Foundation Partnership of Pennsylvania (FCFP), today announced their recognition on the Philadelphia Business Journal's 2023 Faces of Philanthropy list. The annual list recognizes Greater Philadelphia-area organizations seeking to better the communities they work in and serve through their social and charitable initiatives. Chemours and FCFP were honored for a science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) educational program-part of Chemours' ChemFEST school partnership program-and a $4 million investment benefiting Wilmington, Delaware-based EastSide Charter School (ESCS).

ChemFEST is a nationwide, multi-year partnership to create sustainable STEM programs with underserved middle schools by dedicating Chemours' time, talent, and financial resources to nurture the next generation of STEM professionals. Working directly with schools like ESCS, Chemours identifies individual needs and creates a unique ChemFEST program to meet those needs. As a part of the ChemFEST partnership with ESCS, Chemours is a leading investor in developing the Chemours STEM Hub at EastSide Charter School. The new Hub will serve as a premier access point for STEM education and other development opportunities in the Wilmington community and includes a maker's space, 3D printing, engineering, and other STEM-related activities, in addition to doubling as a community center after-school, weekends, and in the summer.

"At Chemours, we're dedicated to investing in the communities where we operate and leading the way on social responsibility for our industry. Our investment in EastSide Charter School is one way we're living our commitment to create vibrant communities and ensure students from diverse backgrounds are exposed to, excited by, and interested in STEM early on in their educational journey," said Mark Newman, President and CEO at Chemours. "With every school and student we reach, we nurture a more capable, inclusive, and diverse future STEM workforce that will be ready for the more than 800,000 job openings in STEM-related fields over the next 20 years. Shaping the world's future requires great innovators and problem solvers from all backgrounds. So we're especially excited by the impact we can have on the local community by investing in the Chemours STEM Hub at EastSide Charter School."

"In a region with an impressive amount of STEM career opportunities, we lack community spaces to prepare our students and citizens for these opportunities," said Aaron Bass, CEO of EastSide Charter School. "With the Chemours STEM Hub that we are building at EastSide Charter School, we hope to one day see the young people that attended EastSide or from the surrounding community become the executives, scientists, and technicians who work for Chemours or other local titans of industry. We are stronger and better when we work together, and we are confident that the bright young minds touched by this partnership and investment from Chemours will drive innovation that will create a better future for all of us."

The 2023 Philadelphia Business Journal Faces of Philanthropy honorees were celebrated during a special event held on April 13, 2023.

About The Chemours Company

The Chemours Company (NYSE: CC) is a global leader in Titanium Technologies, Thermal & Specialized Solutions, and Advanced Performance Materials providing its customers with solutions in a wide range of industries with market-defining products, application expertise and chemistry-based innovations. We deliver customized solutions with a wide range of industrial and specialty chemicals products for markets, including coatings, plastics, refrigeration and air conditioning, transportation, semiconductor and consumer electronics, general industrial, and oil and gas. Our flagship products are sold under prominent brands such as Ti-Pure, Opteon, Freon, Teflon, Viton, Nafion, and Krytox. The company has approximately 6,600 employees and 29 manufacturing sites serving approximately 2,900 customers in approximately 120 countries. Chemours is headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware and is listed on the NYSE under the symbol CC.

For more information, we invite you to visit chemours.com or follow us on Twitter @Chemours or LinkedIn.

CONTACTS:

INVESTORS

Jonathan Lock

SVP, Chief Development Officer

+1.302.773.2263

investor@chemours.com

Kurt Bonner

Manager, Investor Relations

+1.302.773.0026

investor@chemours.com

NEWS MEDIA

Thomas Sueta

Director, Corporate Communications

+1.302.773.3903

media@chemours.com

View original content here.

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from The Chemours Company on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: The Chemours Company

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/chemours-company

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: The Chemours Company

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/749784/Chemours-and-First-Community-Foundation-Partnership-of-Pennsylvania-Recognized-on-the-2023-Faces-of-Philanthropy-List-by-the-Philadelphia-Business-Journal
Board Committee Seeking Replacement

FORT MILL, SC / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Ra Medical Systems, Inc. (NYSE American:RMED) announced today the resignation of its CEO, Will McGuire, for personal reasons. The resignation will be effective April 28, 2023. In conjunction with his resignation as CEO, Mr. McGuire is also resigning from the RMED board of directors. The Company thanks Mr. McGuire for his service and contributions and wishes him the best in future endeavors.

The RMED board of directors, as part of its governance commitment, last month established a committee for examining a transition at the CEO level. Mr. David Jenkins, the Company's Executive Chairman of the Board, will serve as Interim Chief Executive Officer until a full-time replacement is named.

About Ra Medical Systems

Ra Medical, and its wholly owned subsidiary Catheter Precision, is an innovative U.S.-based medical device company bringing new solutions to market to improve the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias. It is focused on developing groundbreaking technology for electrophysiology procedures by collaborating with physicians and continuously advancing its products.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" which include, but are not limited to, the plans and expectations of the combined company regarding its search for a new, full-time chief executive. These forward-looking statements are subject to the safe harbor provisions under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The Company's expectations and beliefs regarding these matters may not materialize. Actual outcomes and results may differ materially from those contemplated by these forward-looking statements as a result of uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances, including but not limited to challenges in the executive job market, and market and regulatory risks. Additional risks and uncertainties that could cause actual outcomes and results to differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements are included under the caption "Risk Factors" and elsewhere in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 28, 2023. This document can be accessed on the Company's Investor Relations page at https://ir.ramed.com/ by clicking on the link titled "SEC Filings".

The forward-looking statements included in this communication are made only as of the date hereof. The Company assumes no obligation and does not intend to update these forward-looking statements, except as required by law.

CONTACTS:

At the Company

David Jenkins

973-691-2000

mhuck@catheterprecision.com

SOURCE: Ra Medical Systems, Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/749758/Ra-Medical-Announces-Resignation-of-CEO
Recognized global consulting leader humanizes business with empathy as a driving force

The Next Practices Group (NPG) and Innate Motion announced a partnership today to better serve clients in North America with their cultural insights, purpose branding, and change leadership agendas.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005407/en/

Innate Motion will work with NextPurpose, an NPG offering that features design, digital, communications, marketing, public affairs, PESO media, and data science to provide clients with a complete solutions platform of purpose-driven services and tools.

"Our goal is to accelerate the shift towards regenerative futures that serve humanity and heal the planet in a more sustainable business model. To achieve this we knew we needed deeper access to the leaders, communities, and companies in North America and in NPG we chose the best partner to do so," said Joyshree Reinelt, Cofounder of Innate Motion, CEO Innate Motion NPG.

As a pioneer in humanizing business since 2006, Innate Motion has helped organizations such as Unilever, Samsung, Coca-Cola, Jaguar Land Rover, L'Oreal, and Visa unlock meaningful growth. The team of partners, researchers, change leaders, and strategists is diverse in cultural and educational backgrounds, and works from around the globe across four practice areas:

1. Cultural Decoding: Uncovering truths and trends through empathetic research that increases brand opportunities

2. Positioning With Purpose: Co-creating brand or company identity and narrative that positions for greater relevance

3. Activation Innovation: Translating purpose into impactful promotion, programs, and products

4. Welcome Change: Engaging stakeholders to face organizational challenges and accelerate transformation so they can be more future fit

Joyshree Reinelt will work closely with Brian Powell, veteran purpose-driven leader and newly appointed Innate Motion Partner to drive wider adoption of the unique offerings to industry leading clients across North America.

"By humanizing business we generate brand resonance internally and relevance externally, making an organization measurably more successful and resilient," Powell said.

David Gallagher, NPG's Global CEO of NextPurpose, adds, "It is important for us to provide a fresh perspective and solutions that support organizations as they humanize their business and share their unique perspective in an effective and powerful manner that aligns with their stakeholders."

About NPG

NPG is a founder-driven group formed to create perpetual competitive advantage and value for clients. NextPurpose is a specially designed offering that utilizes the skills and expertise of all NPG firms, including communications, marketing, digital, public affairs, data science/analytics, performance marketing, security and issues/crisis management, technology and software solutions, and PESO media. For more information, please visit https://nextpracticegroup.com/

About Innate Motion

Innate Motion is a global strategy consultancy that humanizes business with empathy and purpose as fundamental drivers to unlock more meaningful growth. As a proud B-Corp, the diverse, culturally sensitive firm combines psychology, sociology, marketing, and business tools to support organizations, teams, and leaders in their quest for greater relevance and impact. For more information visit https://innatemotion.com/

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005407/en/

Contacts:

Media:

Marisha Chinsky

MChinsky@theblissgrp.com

917-865-5791
Scality and StormForge bring expertise in storage and automated Kubernetes resource management to the platform as adoption of Kubernetes continues to accelerate with education and training in high demand

Kasten by Veeam, the market leader for Kubernetes backup and disaster recovery, today announced that its KubeCampus.io Kubernetes learning platform now has over 20,000 registered users and is expanding to include its first partners Scality and StormForge. These new content providers will infuse the platform with valuable, deep expertise in storage and automated Kubernetes resource management, two key supporting technologies that users should learn to execute Kubernetes deployments successfully.

With Kubernetes adoption increasing exponentially, the need for improved skills in container deployment and management is also growing. However, the lack of Kubernetes training continues to be a challenge. Nearly half of the respondents to the Cloud Native Computing Foundation's annual survey in 2022 who have yet to deploy containers in production say lack of training is the most significant barrier to operation.

Kasten by Veeam is helping close the skills gap by offering free training opportunities and hands-on labs covering the most sought-after Kubernetes skills based on practical, real-world implementations, use cases, and experience with industry-leading products. Designed to be a neutral gathering place for the open-source learning community rather than a vendor-based resource, KubeCampus.io delivers a community platform for learning cloud native and Kubernetes concepts and skills that are increasingly in demand. Visitors will also find additional opportunities for certification and in-person training.

KubeCampus.io has increased its user base by 50% in 2022 and now reports nearly 12,500 courses completed and thousands of learning resources downloaded.

"Building on the tremendous success of KubeCampus, the logical next step is to add resources that will continue to enrich the learning experience," said Tom Leyden, vice president of marketing at Kasten by Veeam. "Collaborating with our partners to expand content and instruction will give users more learning opportunities, more industry experts to consult, and more chances to be certified in leading technologies. Partners can benefit as well by taking advantage of opportunities to drive thought leadership and introduce their technology to prospective customers."

Learning is a focus for Kasten by Veeam at KubeCon CloudNativeCon Europe 2023 in Amsterdam as it hosts KubeCampus Learning Day a FREE, in-person live event featuring two different hands-on labs designed to help attendees improve Kubernetes knowledge and skills while connecting with a like-minded community. The first ever Learning Day EU event sold out in one day, underscoring the demand for Kubernetes-related skills development.

Kasten by Veeam will hold a similar, exclusive learning opportunity, "Kubernetes Kasten K10 Workshop" on May 22 as part of VeeamON 2023, the community event for data recovery experts, which will take place May 22 24 in Miami, Florida and online. Designed by and built for the backup and recovery professional, attendees will expand their skills, celebrate with the community, and share industry knowledge with exclusive content from AWS, Hewlett Packard Enterprise and more. Registration for the in-person event is now open.

Kasten by Veeam is a Platinum sponsor at KubeCon CloudNativeCon Europe 2023, Booth P7. Join KubeCampus at https://kubecampus.io/register. To become a KubeCampus partner, visit: https://kubecampus.io/kubernetes/partners.

For more information, please visit www.kasten.io or try K10 for FREE.

Supporting Quotes

"The need for more high-value education around Kubernetes and container environments is evident from working with our IT clients. The lack of this training is holding back the gains expected from transforming IT environments to the more modern container environments and supporting the new application delivery method. Beyond development, IT operations also need a foundation of knowledge to be effective. KubeCampus is the best education we've seen offered and fills a critical need." Randy Kerns, Senior Strategist, Futurum Group

"The invitation to join the KubeCampus community as an inaugural partner is an honor. With 20,000+ subscribers on the platform, we have the opportunity to drive adoption of object storage for cloud-native apps to a whole new world of DevOps professionals. We feel privileged to help educate and close the skills gaps so often present in key Kubernetes component technologies." Wally McDermid, vice president of strategic alliances at Scality

"Our automated Kubernetes resource management platform is a natural fit for the KubeCampus audience of learners. As companies move through their cloud journey with Kubernetes, they will want to increase their knowledge base on when and how to optimize their environments. We believe that as a KubeCampus learning platform partner, we will help provide a broader maturity model for current and future potential customers while helping the community address the challenges of Kubernetes complexity, especially as deployments scale." Tom Ellery, SVP of Worldwide Field Operations at StormForge

About Kasten by Veeam

Kasten by Veeam is the leader in Kubernetes backup and disaster recovery. Its solution helps enterprises overcome Day 2 data management challenges to confidently run applications on Kubernetes. Kasten K10, its data management platform purpose-built for Kubernetes, provides enterprise operations teams an easy-to-use, scalable, and secure system for backup/restore, disaster recovery, and application mobility with unparalleled operational simplicity. Kasten is an independent Kubernetes Business Unit within Veeam. For more information, visit www.kasten.io or follow @kastenhq on Twitter.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005448/en/

Contacts:

Veeam Software

Director, Global Public Relations

Heidi Monroe Kroft, 614-339-8200 x8309
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - April 18, 2023) - Blackrock Silver Corp. (TSXV: BRC) (the "Company" or "Blackrock") is pleased to announce that Tearlach Resources Ltd. ("Tearlach"), which holds an option to acquire, in two stages, up to a 70% interest in the lithium minerals in certain unpatented mining claims forming a portion of the Company's Tonopah North lithium project ("Gabriel"), has reported initial drill results from the first five of eleven completed drillholes from Tearlach's Phase-1 core drilling program at Gabriel. All drillholes reported significant lithium mineralization, including the highest-grade intercept at Gabriel to date of 1,460 parts per million (ppm) Lithium (Li) over 2.7 metres. Tearlach's drilling has confirmed Blackrock's original Tonopah North lithium discovery with core drillholes delivering grades that range from 40-85% higher than the corresponding original reverse circulation (RC) intercepts drilled by Blackrock. These results substantially increase the grade and expand the mineralized zone at the project. Gabriel is situated in West Central Nevada along the emerging Tonopah lithium belt, abutting American Lithium Corp.'s TLC deposit.

Initial results from Tearlach's phase-1 core drill program demonstrate two key things. First, Tearlach confirmed Blackrock's lithium discovery with two core holes twinning Blackrock's RC drillholes (see October 25, 2022, news release). Second, Tearlach's program completed significant step-out drillholes targeting prospective locations throughout the property. Confirmation drilling was successful in establishing the discovery with drill core assays returning grades significantly higher than previously reported. Step-out drilling expanded the footprint of mineralization across a general area of 1.5 x 2.75 kilometres (km) and delivered the highest-grade intercepts at the project. Assays for the remaining 6 drillholes from this Phase1 program are pending, and Tearlach reports that a maiden mineral resource estimate is on track for completion in 2023.

According to the April 18, 2023 news release issued by Tearlach (the "Tearlach Release"), the following highlights were reported:

Highlights:

Rushed assays from the first 5 of 11 completed core drillholes at Gabriel that cover a general area of 1.5km x 2.75 km;

All drillholes intersected broad zones of lithium mineralization in excess of 400 ppm, each having intervals greater than 1,000 ppm Li, including the highest-grade intercept at Gabriel to date of 1,460 ppm Li;

Core drilling has confirmed Blackrock's initial discovery. Results from two twinned drillholes show lithium values are between 40% to 85% higher in grade than the corresponding Blackrock RC drillhole intercepts;

Tearlach reported the following: The longest lithium intercept for these first five (5) core holes is 146.6 feet (44.7 metres); The highest primary intercept grade is 802 ppm Li over 61 feet (18.6 metres); The highest grade, for an "Included intercept" is 1,196 ppm lithium over 33.3 feet (10.2 metres), including 1460 ppm over 8.9 feet (2.7 metres); Assays for the 6 remaining Phase-1 drillholes are pending with geological continuity of claystone stratigraphy indicated; and Tearlach anticipates delivery of a maiden mineral resource estimate in 2023; and

Bordering American Lithium Corp.'s TLC deposit, Gabriel shows similar lithium-bearing lithologic horizons and similar potential to host a significant lithium deposit immediately adjacent to a major highway, US95, and just outside of the town of Tonopah. There is no assurance that mineralization comparable in size or scale to that on adjacent properties will be discovered on Gabriel.

Andrew Pollard, President and Chief Executive Officer of Blackrock, commented: "Early Tearlach drilling shows the lithium bearing system at the project is potentially of much higher grade and more expansive than initially thought. The results reported today were drilled across a 4.12 km2 area, substantially expanding the footprint of mineralization. With assays for 6 additional step-out drillholes pending, Tonopah North is quickly demonstrating significant size potential that compares favourably with known neighboring lithium deposits. The Tonopah Lithium Belt is home to some of the largest lithium deposits in North America and our landholdings represent the strategic crossroads where it intersects with the Tonopah Silver District. Tearlach is proving to be an excellent partner with immense technical capabilities, and we look forward to watching the project continue to take shape as Tearlach aims to quickly advance it towards a maiden mineral resource estimate by year end."

Analytical results for the two (2) twin core holes have been received and reported as the following.

Figure 1

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/676/162816_8efef9f02471ab85_002full.jpg

Notes:

400 ppm Li cut-off grade. No recovery intervals internal to an intercept assigned a grade of "ZERO" The Gabriel core sample intervals closely, but not exactly, conform to the TN22 rotary sample intervals.

Analytical results for the three (3) step-out Gabriel core holes have been received and reported as the following.

Figure 2

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/676/162816_8efef9f02471ab85_003full.jpg

Notes: 400 ppm Li cut-off grade. Assay results pending for GAB-018 downhole from 300 feet.

Lithium results from GAB-008, -009, -012 and GAB-018 show intervals grading more than 1,000 ppm lithium including 9.7 feet grading 1,130 ppm Li, 7 feet grading 1,010 ppm Li, 8.9 feet grading 1,460 ppm Li, and 5 feet grading 1,340 ppm Li respectively.



Gabriel Project Drillhole Map

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/676/162816_8efef9f02471ab85_004full.jpg

Full details of the results outlined in this news release can be seen in the Tearlach Release, inclusive of QA/QC procedures and approval by a Qualified Person (as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects).

Town Hall Webinar:

Management of Blackrock Silver invites all investors, both prospective and current, to register for their upcoming Town Hall webinar, to be held on April 26, 2023, at 11am PT. The event will feature updates for each of the three projects within Blackrock's portfolio and will end with a Q&A period.

To register: http://surl.li/glcvx

About Blackrock Silver Corp.

Backed by gold and silver ounces in the ground, Blackrock is a junior precious metal focused exploration company driven to add shareholder value via the drill bit. With 2.97 million tonnes grading 446 g/t silver equivalent1 at its Tonopah West project, and a new bonanza-grade gold discovery at Silver Cloud, the Company has a proven track record of exploration success. In addition to its gold and silver project portfolio, the Company is credited with a lithium discovery, the Tonopah North project, which is under option to a major lithium exploration group. Anchored by a seasoned Board, the Company is focused on its 100% controlled Nevada portfolio of properties consisting of low-sulphidation, epithermal gold and silver mineralization located along the established Northern Nevada Rift in north-central Nevada and the Walker Lane trend in western Nevada.

For further information, please contact:

Andrew Pollard, President & CEO

Blackrock Silver Corp.

Phone: 604 817-6044

Email: andrew@blackrocksilver.com

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. Such forward-looking statements concern, without limitation, the Company's option agreement with Tearlach, the timing and completion of Tearlach's maiden mineral resource estimate, the timing of assays for the remaining Gabriel drill holes, the Company's strategic plans, timing and expectations for the Company's exploration and drilling programs, estimates of mineralization from drilling, geological information projected from sampling results and the potential quantities and grades of the target zones. Such forward-looking statements or information are based on a number of assumptions, which may prove to be incorrect. Assumptions have been made regarding, among other things: conditions in general economic and financial markets; accuracy of assay results; geological interpretations from drilling results, timing and amount of capital expenditures; performance of available laboratory and other related services; future operating costs; and the historical basis for current estimates of potential quantities and grades of target zones. The actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of risk factors, including the timing and content of work programs; results of exploration activities and development of mineral properties; the interpretation and uncertainties of drilling results and other geological data; receipt, maintenance and security of permits and mineral property titles; environmental and other regulatory risks; project costs overruns or unanticipated costs and expenses; availability of funds; failure to delineate potential quantities and grades of the target zones based on historical data, and general market and industry conditions. Forward-looking statements are based on the expectations and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made. The assumptions used in the preparation of such statements, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date the statements were made. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements included in this news release if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as otherwise required by applicable law.

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.

1 Technical information relating to the Tonopah West project is based on and derived from the NI 43-101 report prepared for Blackrock entitled "Technical Report and Estimate of Mineral Resources for the Tonopah West Silver-Gold Project, Nye and Esmeralda Counties, Nevada, USA" effective April 28, 2022 (the "Technical Report"). The Technical Report outlines 2.97million tonnes at a block diluted grade of 208 grams per tonne (g/t) silver (Ag) and 2.5g/t gold (Au) for a total inferred mineral resource of 19,902,000 ounces Ag and 238,000 ounces Au, or 446 g/t silver equivalent (AgEq) for 42.6million oz AgEq. AgEq equivalent grade is based on silver and gold prices of US$20/ounce and US$1750/ounce, respectively, and recoveries for silver and gold of 87%and 95%

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/162816
DANA POINT, CA / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Identillect Technologies Corp. (the "Company" or "Identillect") (TSX-V:ID)Frankfurt:8ID), an industry pioneer in email security solutions, is pleased to announce that it has deployed its flagship Delivery Trust encrypted email platform with Volunteers of America of Eastern Washington and Northern Idaho.

For over 125 years, Volunteers of America ("VOA") has been providing specialized care to children and adults, including affordable housing, and diverse social services. "When we need to communicate our clients' information, either internally or externally, Delivery Trust is there to guarantee our email conversations are secure," stated Dave Gress, Compliance Security Officer for Volunteers of America Eastern Washington. "Delivery Trust stood out for ease of use on both the sender and recipient end of the email thread. I am very pleased with the company's can-do attitude. I highly recommend Delivery Trust for secure email communication."

Todd Sexton, CEO of Identillect, added, "We are thrilled to be working with an organization like VOA that provides a bedrock of support and service in local communities across the United States. Volunteers of America provides critical housing, healthcare, and life services to disabled adults, veterans, and at-risk teens. Delivery Trust will allow them to meet all their HIPAA reporting and audit requirements, giving them full freedom to do what they do best, which is to change lives for the better in the communities they serve."

The addressable market for email encryption is forecast to grow from $6.4 billion in 2023 to $14.85 billion by 2027, representing a CAGR of over 23%. Rapid advancements in artificial intelligence software (such as GPT-4) are likely to create a new wave of advanced cyber threats. Identillect stands at the forefront of the fight back, with high-level encryption built upon blockchain technologies.

About Volunteers of America - Eastern Washington/Northern Idaho

VOA is a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to ending homelessness and providing critical life and healthcare services to those most in need. Through innovative, life changing services, they provide opportunities for people to rebuild their lives and fulfill their potential. VOA of Eastern Washington/Northern Idaho has deep ties to local business leaders and Medicare/Medicaid in all the regions they serve. Find out more about VOA Eastern Washington and Northern Idaho here.

About Identillect

Identillect Technologies is the leading provider of blockchain-embedded email encryption services. Its flagship Delivery Trust cybersecurity platform provides ultra secure email communications, empowering enterprises of all sizes to protect their business and their client's critical information against cyber security attacks.

Delivery Trust leverages the Ethereum blockchain for a uniquely secure solution. By drawing on the inherent value proposition of the blockchain ledger, Delivery Trust relies on 11 unique integrity factors which are stored on the Ethereum ledger for every email that is composed. This digital fingerprint is then encrypted by the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) key algorithm and placed on a decentralized ledger that must precisely match the recipient's key.

For more information, or your free trial, please visit www.identillect.com

On Behalf of the Board of Directors of:

IDENTILLECT TECHNOLOGIES CORP.

Todd Sexton

Chief Executive Officer

Tel: (949) 468-7878

Email: todd.sexton@identillect.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.

This news release may include forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. All statements within, other than statements of historical fact, are to be considered forward looking. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include market prices, exploitation and exploration successes, continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market or business conditions. There can be no assurances that such statements will prove accurate and, therefore, readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such uncertainties. We do not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements except as required under the applicable laws.

SOURCE: Identillect Technologies Corp.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/749597/Identillects-Delivery-TrustR-Platform-Chosen-by-Volunteers-of-America-of-Eastern-Washington-and-Northern-Idaho-for-HIPAA-Compliant-Email-Security
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - April 18, 2023) - Emperor Metals Inc. (CSE: AUOZ) ("Emperor" or the "Company") is pleased to report review of historical drill results from the Duquesne West Gold Project in Quebec is nearing completion. Historical drilling yielded intersections of up to 30.61 grams per tonne (G/T) over 10.69 m core length (Table 1). Emperor will commence its phase I drill campaign in early May, having recently received the appropriate land use permit and selected a drilling contractor.

CEO, John Florek, commented: "We are excited to build on the successful historical drilling at Duquesne West and look forward to adding ounces to this high-grade gold deposit in a robust market with gold recently breaking $2,000 an ounce. These thick gold-rich intervals are extremely encouraging; they give confidence for expansion of the known ounces at the margins of this deposit and in building towards a maiden resource for Emperor, which we anticipate will be conducive to a future mining scenario."

Emperor created the first ever in-house 3D block model for this property using Artificial Intelligence (A.I.), which has provided us with a depiction of gold mineralization that is similar to the 2011 Historical Inferred Mineral Resource1 (See Emperor New Release dated January 19, 2023). The 3D block model has enabled us to envision potential patterns for resource expansion targeting high-grade zones that will hopefully lead to an expanded mineral resource with potential for minable economic underground shapes for potential stopes.

Figure 1: Visible gold image from core drilled at Duquesne West in 1996 by Santa Fe Canadian Mining Ltd.



To view an enhanced version of Figure 1, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8461/162798_85788010e439cbac_002full.jpg

Mineralization for this deposit is hosted in a variety of rock types associated with quartz-feldspar porphyry intrusions. Most of the mineralization appears to be fine grained, well disseminated, and is hosted in thick sequences of highly altered rock with disseminated pyrite (2-5%) and/or irregular quartz-carbonate veining throughout. Visible gold in seen in areas of intense silicification (See Figure 1).

Below is a composite table of a few of the historical diamond drillhole (DDH) intercepts that cut through high grade gold mineralization identified by previous explorers. The intercepts shown are meant to highlight examples that reflect the success and contributions of previous companies toward the historical resource1,2; they demonstrate success at various locations and depths and the realization that each company expanded the historical resource1 for the deposit, which remains open for expansion with additional drilling.

Table 1: Composited historical drillhole intercepts at Duquesne West, examples selected from the total DDH database comprising 101,308 metres (326 DDH) drilled by various exploration companies as shown.



To view an enhanced version of Table 1, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8461/162798_85788010e439cbac_003full.jpg

About the Duquesne West Gold Project

The Duquesne West Gold Property is located 32 km northwest of the city of Rouyn-Noranda and 10 km east of the town of Duparquet. The property lies within the historic Duparquet gold mining camp in the southern portion of the Abitibi Greenstone Belt in the Superior Province.

Under an Option Agreement, Emperor agreed to acquire a one hundred percent (100%) interest in a mineral claim package comprising 38 claims covering approximately 1,389 ha, located in the Duparquet Township of Quebec (the "Duquesne West Property") from Duparquet Assets Ltd., a 50% owned subsidiary of Globex Mining Enterprises Inc. (TSX: GMX). For further information on the Duquesne West Property and Option Agreement, see Emperor's press release dated October 12, 2022, available on SEDAR.

The Property hosts a historical inferred mineral resource estimate of 727,000 ounces of gold at a grade of 5.42 g/t Au.1,2 The mineral resource estimate predates modern CIM guidelines and a Qualified Person on behalf of Emperor has not reviewed or verified the mineral resource estimate, therefore it is considered historical in nature and is reported solely to provide an indication of the magnitude of mineralization that could be present on the property. The gold system remains open for resource identification and expansion.

Reinterpretation of the existing geological model was created using Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. This model shows the opportunity for additional discovery of ounces by revealing gold trends unknown to previous workers and the potential to expand the resource along significant gold-endowed structural zones.

1 Watts, Griffis, and McOuat Consulting Geologists and Engineers, Oct 20, 2011, Technical Report and Mineral Resource Estimate Update for the Duquesne-Ottoman Property, Quebec, Canada for XMet Inc.

2 The Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) constructed in 2011 is considered historical in nature as it was constructed prior to the most recent Canadian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (CIM) standards (2014) and guidelines (2019) for mineral resources. In addition, the economic factors used to demonstrate reasonable prospects of eventual economic extraction for the MRE have changed since 2011. A qualified person has not done sufficient work to consider the MRE as a current MRE. Emperor is not treating the historical MRE as a current mineral resource. The reader is cautioned not to treat it, or any part of it, as a current mineral resource.

QP Disclosure

The technical content for the Duquesne West Project in this news release has been reviewed and approved by John Florek, M.Sc., P.Geol., a Qualified Person pursuant to CIM guidelines.

About Emperor Metals Inc.

Emperor Metals Inc. is an innovative Canadian mineral exploration company focused on developing high-quality gold properties situated in the Canadian Shield. For more information, please refer to SEDAR (www.sedar.com), under the Company's profile.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

s/ "John Florek"

John Florek, M.Sc., P.Geol

President, CEO and Director

Emperor Metals Inc.

For further information, please contact:

Mr. Alexander Horsley, Director

Phone: 778-323-3058

Email: alexh@emperormetals.com

Website: www.emperormetals.com

THE CSE HAS NOT APPROVED NOR DISAPPROVED THIS ANNOUNCEMENT

CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

CERTAIN STATEMENTS MADE AND INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN MAY CONSTITUTE "FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION" AND "FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS" WITHIN THE MEANING OF APPLICABLE CANADIAN AND UNITED STATES SECURITIES LEGISLATION. THESE STATEMENTS AND INFORMATION ARE BASED ON FACTS CURRENTLY AVAILABLE TO THE COMPANY AND THERE IS NO ASSURANCE THAT ACTUAL RESULTS WILL MEET MANAGEMENT'S EXPECTATIONS. FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS AND INFORMATION MAY BE IDENTIFIED BY SUCH TERMS AS "ANTICIPATES", "BELIEVES", "TARGETS", "ESTIMATES", "PLANS", "EXPECTS", "MAY", "WILL", "COULD" OR "WOULD".

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS AND INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN ARE BASED ON CERTAIN FACTORS AND ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THE ESTIMATION OF MINERAL RESOURCES AND RESERVES, THE REALIZATION OF RESOURCE AND RESERVE ESTIMATES, METAL PRICES, TAXATION, THE ESTIMATION, TIMING AND AMOUNT OF FUTURE EXPLORATION AND DEVELOPMENT, CAPITAL AND OPERATING COSTS, THE AVAILABILITY OF FINANCING, THE RECEIPT OF REGULATORY APPROVALS, ENVIRONMENTAL RISKS, TITLE DISPUTES AND OTHER MATTERS. WHILE THE COMPANY CONSIDERS ITS ASSUMPTIONS TO BE REASONABLE AS OF THE DATE HEREOF, FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS AND INFORMATION ARE NOT GUARANTEES OF FUTURE PERFORMANCE AND READERS SHOULD NOT PLACE UNDUE IMPORTANCE ON SUCH STATEMENTS AS ACTUAL EVENTS AND RESULTS MAY DIFFER MATERIALLY FROM THOSE DESCRIBED HEREIN. THE COMPANY DOES NOT UNDERTAKE TO UPDATE ANY FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS OR INFORMATION EXCEPT AS MAY BE REQUIRED BY APPLICABLE SECURITIES LAWS.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/162798
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - April 18, 2023) - Nova Mentis Life Science Corp. (CSE: NOVA) (FSE: HN3Q) (OTCQB: NMLSF) ("NOVA" or the "Company"), a biotechnology company and global leader in first-in-class psilocybin-based therapeutics and complementary diagnostics for neuroinflammatory disorders is pleased to announce that it has begun recruiting participants into the first-ever clinical trial investigating the effects of psilocybin on the cognitive and behavioural symptoms associated with fragile X syndrome (FXS), the leading genetic cause of autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

The 28-day study will test the safety and efficacy of NOVA's proprietary psilocybin drug (NM-1001) for the treatment of FXS, and is one of the first Health Canada approved studies allowing participants to take home psilocybin for dosing every other day.

"After achieving very positive results in NOVA's preclinical research, we are eager to begin testing our microdose psilocybin formulation on adult patients diagnosed with fragile X syndrome. Autism is the fastest growing developmental disability in the world and we believe psilocybin therapy has the potential to provide new treatment options for the symptoms associated with this unmet medical need," stated Dr. Marvin S. Hausman MD, Chairman of NOVA's Scientific Advisory Board.

NOVA and KGK Science have partnered to conduct the Phase IIA clinical trial, which is being carried out at the KGK facility in London, Ontario, Canada. This 10-person, open-label study will assess repetitive, oral microdose psilocybin therapy for FXS. The Company intends to confirm changes in behavioural symptoms with state-of-the-art diagnostic and therapeutic mRNA and serotonin biomarker technology, combined with machine learning artificial intelligence (AI).

NOVA has completed production of pharmaceutical grade cGMP synthetic psilocybin 1.5 mg microdose capsules that will be used in the study.

The Company anticipates treating their first participant in Q2 2023 and having preliminary results ready later this year.

For more information, please click here.

To express your interest in participating in this study, please complete this eligibility questionnaire.

If you have questions, email participate@kgkscience.com or call 1-833-858-8359.

About Nova Mentis Life Science Corp.

Nova Mentis Life Science Corp. is a Canadian-based biotechnology company and global leader in developing diagnostics and psilocybin-based therapeutics for neuroinflammatory disorders. Nova is the first biotech company to achieve orphan drug designation in both the United States and European Union for the use of psilocybin in the treatment of fragile X syndrome (FXS).

NOVA's goal is to diagnose and treat debilitating chronic conditions that have unmet medical needs, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and FXS.

For further information on the Company, please visit www.novamentis.ca or email info@novamentis.ca.

About KGK Science

A subsidiary of Wellbeing Digital Sciences, KGK Science is a leading North American contract research organization based in London, Ontario that primarily provides high-quality clinical research trials with a focus on nutraceutical and emerging health care products. Founded in 1997, the business has successfully helped hundreds of companies with custom designed clinical trials and claim substantiation strategies to move products into global markets. KGK's other existing service lines include expert regulatory support and compliance solutions, participant recruitment, research support services and consulting services. Furthermore, the company has produced over 150 publications, executed over 400 clinical trials across more than 40 indications, amassed 25,000 participants in its database, and collected 10 million data points. For additional information, please visit www.kgkscience.com.

On Behalf of the Board

Will Rascan, President & CEO

Nova Mentis Life Science Corp.

Phone: 778-819-0244

Toll Free: 1-833-542-5323

Twitter: @novamentislsc

Instagram: @novamentislsc

Facebook: @novamentislsc

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

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 Nova Mentis Life Science'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.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/162813
-- KEGS' War of 1812 Amber Ale Wins Top Prize in the American Style Amber/Red Ale Category --

WATERTOWN, NY / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / 1812 BREWING COMPANY, INC. (OTC PINK:KEGS) (the "Company" or "KEGS") is pleased to announce that the Company earned "2023 New York Amber Ale Brewery of the Year" award for its War of 1812 Amber Ale, which earned the top medal in its category in the 2023 New York International Beer Competition held in Rockefeller Center. This competition was open to all commercially produced beer, cider and mead from around the world. 1812 Brewing Company entered its War of 1812 Amber Ale in the "American Style Amber / Red Ale" category, where it was awarded the top medal in that category.

"To have earned this award from the New York International Beer Competition is very exciting," stated Chairman and CEO Tom Scozzafava. "Not only is this validation of the quality of our 1812 Amber, but it further shows the product's potential in the marketplace. The fact that the competition is judged by actual beer buyers reflects that."

1812 Brewing Company recently announced that it has partnered with TapRm.com, a direct-to-consumer e-commerce and logistics company for distribution of War of 1812 Amber Ale that covers most areas of 45 states plus Washington DC. Customers can order the 1812 Amber Ale directly for shipment to your home or restaurant at:

https://1812-brewing.taprm.com/all-products

About the New York International Beer Competition :

The 2023 New York International Beer Competition had 700+ entries from over 15 countries competing in nearly 30 categories. The competition had the top beer buyers and trade professionals judging the products by their category and price point. This contest is the only international beer competition using the authorized categories of the United States Brewer Association (USABM) and where all the judges are real trade buyers who are judging the beer by category and actual price. These judges are buyers from the top New York Area liquor stores, restaurants, hotels and more.

About 1812 Brewing Company ("KEGS or the "Company") :

KEGS is an operator of and investor in companies in the craft beer industry. The Company seeks to build a nation-wide network of craft breweries to develop and foster respective brand growth at the local, regional, and national level. KEGS looks to build a network wherein certain economies of scale can be shared across it such as production, distribution footprint expansion, inter-member contract brewing, new product development, sharing of best brewery practices and scale logistics and transportation. The network is to be built through investment by 1812 Brewing Company while maintaining the members' respective local and regional uniqueness, brand autonomy and direct involvement with its consumers. The Company seeks to be an "incubator" of growth for its holdings in the industry.

The Company's current holding, 1812 Brewing Co., produces award-winning beers such as War of 1812 Amber Ale ("1812 Amber Ale"), 1812 Light, Hazy Oasis Pale Ale, Thousand Islands IPA, Malicious Intent XX IPA, Route 11 Lager, Railroad Red Ale, Helles Bells Pilsner, St. Stephens Stout, Third Rail Porter, Featherhammer Maibock.

For more updates follow us on our Website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Linkedin.

https://www.kegsnetwork.com/

https://www.facebook.com/kegsnetwork/

https://www.instagram.com/kegsnetwork/

https://twitter.com/kegsnetwork

https://www.1812ale.com/

https://www.facebook.com/1812brewingcompany/

https://www.instagram.com/1812brewingcompany/

https://twitter.com/1812Brewing

https://www.linkedin.com/company/1812brewingcompany/

Contact:

Contact Name: Tom Scozzafava

Contact Phone Number: 315-788-1812

Contact Email Address: contact@1812ale.com

Safe Harbor: This release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 27E of the Securities Act of 1934. Statements contained in this release that are not historical facts may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain. Actual performance and results may differ materially from that projected or suggested herein due to certain risks and uncertainties including, without limitation, ability to obtain financing and regulatory and shareholder approval for anticipated actions.

SOURCE: 1812 Brewing Company Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/749774/1812-Brewing-Company-Wins-New-York-Amber-Ale-Brewery-of-the-Year-Award-at-the-2023-New-York-International-Beer-Competition
Toronto, Ontario and New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - April 18, 2023) - Sekur Private Data Ltd. (CSE: SKUR) (OTCQX: SWISF) (FSE: GDT0) ("Sekur" or the "Company"), a leading Swiss hosted secure and private communications platform, is pleased announce that it has launched the world's first non-big tech powered, Swiss hosted privacy focused VPN solution, SekurVPN.

The Company has launched on April 7th 2023, its privacy VPN solution called SekurVPN available through https://www.sekurvpn.com, or through https://www.sekur.com, as it starts full commercial sales of its highly anticipated SekurVPN privacy and security VPN solution. SekurVPN is priced at US$ 7/month/user and US$ 70/year/user for the service. The solution is also offered in USD, CAD, NZD, AUD, SGD, CHF, EUR and GPB. The Company plans to launch SekurVPN in the coming weeks to existing shareholders and Sekur users with a special offer, and move to a larger audience of 1,000,000 people in the USA, through several digital and email marketing campaigns.

SekurVPN is especially meant for privacy enthousiasts and users wanting to mask their IP address from hackers. An example would be users going to their e-banking or shopping online, using their emails, using messaging applications and wanting to have full privacy and protection from hackers hyjacking their location and signal. The service guarantees not to use Big Tech or Hyperscalers for its functioning or hosting, it guarantees that there are no third party bundles sold with it, so no data is leaked or sold to third parties, it guarantees no traffic pulling or monitoring, and no phone number required to register to the service.

According to a study and publication on forbes.com, 66% use a VPN to help protect personal data, 80% use a VPN for increased security and 33% use a VPN to mask their internet activity. More statistics can be found on this VPN Statistics And Trends In 2023 article.

Alain Ghiai, CEO of Sekur Private Data said: "We are very excited to announce the launch of SekurVPN. The idea got prioritized as we received numerous requests from our existing and would be customers through our support platform, and our efforts have culminated in this timely launch. This is an opportunity for our users and shareholders and anyone wishing to have true privacy on the internet, at a very affordable pricing model, and we have already seen subscriptions signed up. We have high hopes for the success of SekurVPN, due to its highly private nature, since it does not use any big tech or computing or hosting and offers only Swiss IPs. Our prime directive is to provide private and secure communications for everyone, and, as we are not connected to any Big Tech or Hyperscaler platform, we offer a truly independent, private and secure means of communications without any data mining, through our proprietary technology and our secure servers based in Switzerland. We look forward to continuing to offer true data privacy to all individuals and their businesses and protect their intellectual property, and their privacy, from data miners and malicious hackers."

Private:

SekurVPN uses its own proprietary infrastructure and does not use any Hyperscaler or Big Tech hosting providers, unlike most other VPNs. It offers Swiss IPs only, and this guarantees that it is using only SekurVPN's own servers and routing. Other VPNs offer 100s of locations and are using Big Tech providers, compromising users' privacy. SekurVPN never monitors users' activity and never shares any data with third party service providers. By being a pure VPN, without bundled outside services, such as anti-virus, and ad-blockers, SekurVPN keeps users' information private without sharing their data with third party service providers. With SekurVPN, users do not register their phone number on the App or the web, rendering users invisible from hackers or snoopers. No phone number to register, anonymous Swiss IPs only, no data mining or traffic sharing with anyone.

Secure:

SekurVPN's secure VPN routes all your Internet traffic through SekurVPN's privately owned servers, in multiple locations in Switzerland only, and using the highest encryption industry standards, combined with its proprietary HeliX technology for added security. Encryption keys are not stored on devices and are unique at every connection. Users' passwords, confidential data and Internet surfing stay encrypted even over public untrusted internet connections.

Easy to use:

SekurVPN is extremely easy to setup and deploy. There is no country list and our interface is simplified, just tap or click the connection button. SekurVPN's no-frills but highly secure and private service gives users peace of mind without thinking about geo-locations.

Currently SekurVPN is available to use with iOS and Android devices. A MacOS version and a Windows version are planned to be launched in the coming weeks.

In addition to SekurVPN, the company offers a bundled Sekur plan, which includes SekurMessenger and SekurMail, as a bundle of email, messaging and file transfer into one application, and includes the Company's latest SekurMail technology, which includes proprietary anti-phishing and privacy feature called SekurSend. SekurSend lets a user send an email to any other recipient, whether they have Sekur or not, in full privacy and security as the email never leaves Sekur's encrypted email servers based in Switzerland. The recipient can then click on the notification and reply in the same manner using SekurReply, without the recipient having to register for a Sekur account. The sender can also decide to protect any email sent by adding a password to open it, a read-limit and a self-destruct timer as well. Sending an email with the SekurSend feature allows the senders and recipients to add limitless size attachments to the emails without crowding the recipients' email box. This also eliminates BEC attacks for businesses and email phishing attacks. Additionally, SekurMail includes full control of email delivery, automatic data export for large Enterprises and an automatic Data Loss Prevention technology ("DLP") with real time continuous archiving.

Recent data breaches in messaging applications have created a certain urgency for businesses and data privacy advocates to protect their communications from cyber-attacks and identity theft via mobile and desktop devices.

SekurMessenger comes with a proprietary feature and technology called "Chat-By-Invite". This feature allows a SekurMessenger user ("SM user") invite via email or SMS, a non-SM user, or a group of non-SM users, to chat in a fully private and secure way, without the recipient ever having to register to SekurMessenger or download the app. At the end of the chat, the initiator of the conversation can remotely terminate the conversation and all traces of the conversation are deleted from all users, including the recipient. This unique feature is now fully deployed and functional on all iOS and Android devices and web platforms. The target sectors are numerous, including but not limited to real estate, legal, finance, insurance, medical, government, energy, manufacturing, trade and pharmaceutical sectors.

SekurMessenger also eliminates many of the privacy and security risks by not only not requiring a phone number, which would divulge a user's phone device ID, but also by not social engineering a user's phone or computer contact list and infecting the contacts by default as well, eliminating a huge loophole in security and privacy. SekurMessenger issues each user a username and a Sekur number. The Sekur number is the contact ID a user would disclose in order for other Sekur users to be added. The service comes with a self-destruct timer and other features as well, including Sekur's proprietary VirtualVaults and HeliX technologies with all data stored in Swiss hosted encrypted servers.

Sekur's Data privacy solutions are all hosted in Switzerland, protecting users' data from any outside data intrusion requests. In Switzerland, the right to privacy is guaranteed in article 13 of the Swiss Federal Constitution. The Federal Act on Data Protection ("FADP") of 19 June 1992 (in force since 1993) has set up a strict protection of privacy by prohibiting virtually any processing of personal data which is not expressly authorized by the data subjects. The protection is subject to the authority of the Federal Data Protection and Information Commissioner.

Under Swiss federal law, it is a crime to publish information based on leaked "secret official discussions." In 2010 the Federal Supreme Court of Switzerland found that IP addresses are personal information and that under Swiss privacy laws they may not be used to track Internet usage without the knowledge of the individuals involved.

About Sekur Private Data Ltd.

Sekur Private Data Ltd. is a Cybersecurity and Internet privacy provider of Swiss hosted solutions for secure and private communications. The Company distributes a suite of encrypted e-mails, secure messengers, and secure communication tools. Sekur Private Data Ltd. sells its products through its own website at https://www.sekur.com, and approved distributors, and telecommunications companies worldwide. Sekur Private Data Ltd. serves consumers, businesses and governments worldwide.

On behalf of Management

SEKUR PRIVATE DATA LTD.

Alain Ghiai

President and Chief Executive Officer

+1.416.644.8690

corporate@sekurprivatedata.com

For more information, please contact Sekur Private Data at corporate@sekurprivatedata.com or visit us at https://www.sekurprivatedata.com



For more information on Sekur visit us at: https://www.sekur.com or https://www.sekurvpn.com



Forward Looking Information

This news release contains certain forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws ("forward-looking statements"). All statements other than statements of present or historical fact are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "anticipate", "achieve", "could", "believe", "plan", "intend", "objective", "continuous", "ongoing", "estimate", "outlook", "expect", "project" and similar words, including negatives thereof, suggesting future outcomes or that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. These statements are only predictions. These statements reflect management's current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations; they are not guaranteeing future performance. Sekur 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 Sekur's control. Such factors include, among other things: risks and uncertainties relating to the future of the Company's business; the success of marketing and sales efforts of the Company; the projections prepared in house and projections delivered by channel partners; the Company's ability to complete the necessary software updates; increases in sales as a result of investments software development technology; consumer interest in the Products; future sales plans and strategies; reliance on large channel partners and expectations of renewals to ongoing agreements with these partners; anticipated events and trends; the economy and other future conditions; and other risks and uncertainties, including those described in Sekur's prospectus dated May 8, 2019 filed with the Canadian Securities Administrators and available on www.sedar.com. 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, Sekur undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking information.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/162827
CCC Unveiling "The State of Scholarly Metadata: 2023" Visual Report During the Research Scholarly Publishing Forum on 20 April

CCC, a leader in advancing copyright, accelerating knowledge, and powering innovation, is hosting a panel discussion on "Reading the Data Compass: The Guiding Role of Metadata in an Increasingly Complex Scholarly Research Ecosystem" during the Research Scholarly Publishing Forum at The London Book Fair on 20 April, 11:40 -12:10 in the Olympia Theatre.

In addition to Matt Cannon, Head of Open Research, Taylor Francis, panelists include Daniel Shanahan, Publishing Director, PLOS and Dr Jose Francisco Salm Junior, PhD, Professor, UDESC-ULisbon. Christopher Kenneally, host of CCC's award-winning Velocity of Content podcast, will moderate.

"When scaling the heights of Open Access (OA), a data compass is essential in a pressurized publishing environment that includes funder mandates, open data policies, and expectations for interoperability," said Emily Sheahan, Vice President Managing Director, CCC. "I am looking forward to hearing from our panelists about their insights and experiences on the role of metadata in the ecosystem."

CCC is also unveiling The State of Scholarly Metadata: 2023, a visual report conducted in collaboration with Media Growth Strategies that depicts the complexities and value of metadata throughout the scholarly research lifecycle. The findings draw on dozens of research interviews about the significant economic and social impact that a fragmented metadata supply chain has today on researchers, institutions, funders, and publishers-particularly in the transition to OA.

"As the scholarly communications community continues its shift to full OA, stakeholders recognize that new strategies, inclusive policies, and a robust network of interoperable systems are essential for making critical and necessary infrastructure improvements," said Sheahan. "In that environment, a dedication to data integrity across each stakeholder group will improve data sharing, enhance metrics on research impact, and support a responsive, equitable rewards and recognition system."

With its acquisition of Ringgold, CCC is now a leading provider of persistent Identifiers (PIDs) for the entire ecosystem, including publishers, institutions, funders, government, corporations, healthcare, non-profits, and more. For more than ten years, RightsLink for Scientific Communications (RLSC) has relied on Ringgold identifiers to disambiguate author affiliations related to APC management.

With over 600,000 Ringgold PIDs and metadata records, Ringgold Identify Database provides a curated view of organization data to help stakeholders improve data quality, drive strategic decision-making, and support data interoperability across the scholarly communications ecosystem. Used by intermediaries, funders, and a growing list of leading publishers, Ringgold Identify Database is the only solution to offer structured organizational hierarchies and consortia connections to help stakeholders quickly understand complex relationships. The database also includes rich metadata and additional identifiers, including the ISNI ID, an ISO Standard open ID to support wider interoperability.

CCC is a long-time supporter of the creation, development, and proliferation of identifiers, including supporting initiatives such as ORCID and ISNI. The acquisition of Ringgold reflects CCC's ongoing commitment to promoting data interoperability, addressing market friction, and collaborating with stakeholders to create solutions together.

CCC is an active partner in the evolution of hybrid and pure OA publishing models. For years, CCC has brought together key OA stakeholders from the author, publisher, institution, funding, and vendor communities through roundtables, panel events, webinars, and podcasts. CCC is a member of OASPA (Open Access Scholarly Publishers Association), ALPSP (Association of Learned and Professional Society Publishers), STM (International Association of STM Publishers) and SSP (Society for Scholarly Publishing).

ABOUT CCC

A pioneer in voluntary collective licensing, CCC (Copyright Clearance Center) helps organizations integrate, access, and share information through licensing, content, software, and professional services. With expertise in copyright, information management, artificial intelligence, and machine learning, CCC and its subsidiary RightsDirect collaborate with stakeholders to design and deliver innovative information solutions that power decision-making by harnessing information from a wide variety of data sources and content assets.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005869/en/

Contacts:

Craig Sender

Senior Director, Public Analyst Relations

csender@copyright.com

917-626-7152
FORNEBU, Norway, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Akastor ASA (OSE: AKAST) has today completed the transfer of all shares in AGR AS to ABL Group ASA ("ABL Group") as per the terms described in the press release dated 20 March 2023.

Consequently, a total of 18,166,667 Consideration Shares in ABL Group will be issued to Akastor's wholly owned subsidiary RGA Energy Holdings AS ("RGA Energy"), of which 2/3 will be transferred to Nordea and DNB (with 1/3 issued to each bank) as settlement of the loans they previously had against AGR AS. RGA Energy will retain 1/3 of the Consideration Shares (6,055,556), which equals an ownership share in ABL of about 4.9%. All Consideration Shares are subject to a 12 month lock-up period.

In addition to the Consideration Shares, RGA Energy has received full payment of the agreed NOK 80.4 million Cash Consideration, of which only a balance of NOK 5.3 million remained for payment at completion following an agreed distribution of excess cash prior to completion. RGA Energy will also continue to own certain assets which are not part of the transaction, including 44% of the shares in FN Energy Services AS.

The transaction is completed above book value and expected to generate an estimated accounting gain for Akastor of approximately NOK 100 million, which will be booked in Q2 2023.

For further information, please contact:

yvind Paaske

Chief Financial Officer

Tel: +47 917 59 705

E-mail: oyvind.paaske@akastor.com

About AGR

AGR is a multi-disciplinary engineering consultancy and software provider to the energy sector. The company offers consultancy, asset evaluation, peer study, software and integrated well engineering services. In 2022, AGR delivered revenue of NOK 790 million and an adjusted EBITDA of NOK 60 million.



For further information, please visit homepage: https://agr.com/

About Akastor

Akastor is a Norway-based oil-services investment company with a portfolio of industrial holdings and other investments. The company has a flexible mandate for active ownership and long-term value creation.



For further information, please visit homepage: https://akastor.com/

About ABL Group

ABL Group (OSE: ABL Group ASA - ticker code "ABL") offers independent energy and marine consultancy to the global renewables, maritime and oil and gas sectors. The group has offices in 39 countries worldwide. ABL Group operates under seven brands: ABL, OWC, Longitude, AGR, Add Energy, Innosea and ABL Yachts.



For further information, please visit homepage: https://abl-group.com/

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/akastor-asa-agreement-to-transfer-agr-as-completed-301800358.html
The Natural Diamond Council continues to promote transparency by releasing analysis addressing the myths and misconceptions about the diamond industry.

LONDON, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Natural Diamond Council , the authoritative resource on natural diamonds, has released its 2023 analytical report entitled, Diamond Facts: Addressing myths and misconceptions about the diamond industry. Through this report, the Natural Diamond Council (NDC) has set out to address misinformation about both natural diamonds and laboratory-grown diamonds.





"In an age where consumers are more inquisitive and enlightened than ever, they wish to know about the values and responsible business practices from the companies and indeed the wider industry from which they are purchasing," says David Kellie, CEO of the NDC. "At the Natural Diamond Council, we want to support consumers in taking informed decisions by providing information transparently."

The report tackles common misconceptions about the diamond industry. Examples of facts from the report include:

Highlight: Laboratory-grown diamonds can be detected from natural diamonds.

Supporting Facts:

All laboratory-grown diamonds can be detected using professional verification instruments.

Mass-produced in just a few weeks, unlike the billions of years it takes for a natural diamond to form under the earth's surface, laboratory-grown diamonds exhibit specific growth-related features and patterns.

Highlight: Not all laboratory-grown diamonds are sustainable.

Supporting Facts:

Laboratory-grown diamonds replicate the natural diamond creation process which requires a mass amount of electricity, mostly from the national grid.

Over 60% of laboratory-grown diamonds are mass-produced in China and India where 63% and respectively 74% of grid electricity results from coal.

and where 63% and respectively 74% of grid electricity results from coal. The manufacturing of laboratory-grown diamonds can require temperatures similar to 20% of the temperature of the Sun's surface.

Highlight: The process of natural diamond formation means that they are inherently rare. They are a finite natural resource.

Supporting Facts:

Formation takes place across the span of millions, sometimes billions, of years and occurs in limited zones of the earth's mantle at extreme temperatures and pressures.

Global natural diamond recovery peaked in 2005 and has decreased by over 30% in the last 16 years.

The annual recovery of 1 carat diamonds is equivalent in volume to an exercise ball.

Highlight: Laboratory-grown diamonds have experienced significant price depreciation in recent years.

Supporting Facts:

From 2016 to 2023, the average price of a 1.5 carat laboratory-grown diamond has decreased by over 74%.

Whilst the natural diamond prices have also fluctuated, over the last 35 years, on average, they have risen by 3% per annum.

Highlight: Ethical sourcing is a priority for the natural diamond industry.

Supporting Facts:

Under the Kimberley Process, mandated by the United Nations and the World Trade Organization, the trading of rough diamonds is strictly regulated to ensure it is conflict-free.

Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) warrants responsible sourcing through third party audited certifications.

Brands, retailers, and jewellers are increasingly implementing ethical sourcing protocols and policies bringing transparency to their supply chains.

Highlight: Natural diamonds help protect the biodiversity over an area equivalent to New York City, Chicago, Washington D.C., and Las Vegas combined. This is close to four times the land used by NDC member companies for natural diamond recovery, globally.

Supporting Facts:

De Beers Group, a leading diamond company, is partnering with Kelp Blue, exploring kelp's potential to store carbon, whilst improving marine health.

The Diamond Route is a network established by De Beers Group to protect critical wildlife habitats in South Africa and Botswana .

Highlight: Natural Diamonds benefit the countries from which they originate. The natural diamond industry supports the livelihood of 10 million people worldwide.

Supporting Facts:

Up to 80% of rough diamond value remains with local communities in the form of local purchasing, employment benefits, social programs, investment in infrastructure as well as the taxes, royalties and dividends paid from the industry to respective governments.

For NDC members, 85% of all procurement is local.

In Canada , the natural diamond industry contributes to 24% of total GDP in the Northwest Territories , $17 billion went toward (NWT) businesses and $7.5 billion to Indigenous owned (NWT) businesses.

For additional facts about the diamond industry where topics including traceability, stockpiling and other misconceptions are addressed visit: https://www.naturaldiamonds.com/diamondfacts/ .

The findings of this analysis have been derived from a thorough review of a wide range of secondary research conducted by globally respected third-party organizations. Industry experts and independent sustainability advisors were also consulted on the topics covered.

About Natural Diamond Council

The Natural Diamond Council (NDC) inspires and informs consumers about the incredible world of natural diamonds through its Only Natural Diamonds platform. The platform is the authoritative publisher on all things natural diamonds including celebrities and pop culture, epic diamonds and jewellery trends, engagements and weddings, and diamond buying guides. The NDC supports the integrity of the natural diamond industry by providing transparency and insight on the progress of this sector and its commitments to further betterment.?NDC is a global organization whose members' operations span four continents and ten countries including Canada, South Africa, and Botswana. Their operations support the livelihood of 10 million industry employees and their families around the world. The NDC operates in the US, China, India, UAE, and Europe. For more information, please visit https://www.naturaldiamonds.com/ .

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2056873/Rough_Natural_Diamond.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/natural-diamond-council-busts-industry-myths-with-facts-301800362.html
NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / International Paper Company

The importance of family forest landowners

Forests cover more than 750 million acres in the U.S., about one-third of the country's landmass. They represent the country's largest terrestrial carbon sink, continuously taking carbon out of the atmosphere and storing it in trees. Yet forests offer significantly greater potential to mitigate the country's carbon impacts through carbon-smart forest management.

Enter family forest landowners - the families and individuals who own and manage nearly 40% of America's forestlands. Forest landowners, whose tracts measure between 30 acres and 2,400 acres, care deeply about the health of their woods, the future of their land and the planet. They want to play an active role in protecting forests, but often struggle to realize the full potential of their land for carbon sequestration.

How the Family Forest Carbon Program can help

The Family Forest Carbon Program, developed by the American Forest Foundation (AFF) and The Nature Conservancy, with financial and technical support from International Paper, enables family forest owners to access climate finance from carbon markets - empowering them to help address climate change while earning income from their land.

In a recent American Forest Foundation blog, the AFF noted that voluntary carbon markets are emerging as one of the primary ways to finance climate action. In a new strategic direction for the Family Forest Carbon Program, the AFF will expand access to this market for family forest owners from all walks of life while producing high quality forest carbon credits.

"The sustainability of forests remains critically important to our business, our communities, and our planet," said Sophie Beckham, IP's Chief Sustainability Officer. "Natural climate solutions are key to mitigating climate change. Programs such as this one are essential to advancing robust carbon accounting methodology and identifying incentives to engage family forest landowners."

Growing the program to help families store more carbon

In 2022, IP's support enabled the Family Forest Carbon Program to scale up in the Central Appalachian area of the U.S., while also expanding into other forest areas. The program has enrolled an additional 248 landowners representing 36,302 acres, bringing the total enrollment to 313 landowners and 46,088 acres.

Across the life of their contracts, those landowners will sequester and store an additional estimated 987,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide - a number which will be validated and verified by third-parties under the Verified Carbon Standard.

The program has expanded from the Central Appalachians to the Northeast (Vermont, New York and New Hampshire) and the Midwest (Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan), and aims to enroll an additional 95,000 acres in 2023.

The program also is on track to launch activities in the U.S. Southeast this year, with practices related to afforestation of degraded fields and pasturelands, and potentially with practices aimed at the improved management of native pine species.

Learn more about the Family Forest Carbon Program.

About International Paper

International Paper (NYSE:IP) is a leading global supplier of renewable fiber-based products. We produce corrugated packaging products that protect and promote goods, and enable worldwide commerce, and pulp for diapers, tissue and other personal care products that promote health and wellness. Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., we employ approximately 38,000 colleagues globally. We serve customers worldwide, with manufacturing operations in North America, Latin America, North Africa and Europe. Net sales for 2021 were $19.4 billion. Additional information can be found by visiting InternationalPaper.com.

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from International Paper Company on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: International Paper Company

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/international-paper-company

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: International Paper Company

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/749805/Helping-Family-Forest-Owners-To-Take-Part-in-Natural-Climate-Solutions
SURREY, BC / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Gungnir Resources Inc. (TSXV:GUG)(OTC PINK:ASWRF) ("Gungnir" or the "Company") reports that the Company is finalizing plans to conduct electromagnetic (EM) geophysics on its Hemberget property located in the Vasterbotten district in northern Sweden. The company is targeting shallow conductors potentially related to copper-nickel sulphide mineralization within a large, layered mafic-ultramafic intrusion. Similar, but much smaller intrusions, located to the south on the Company's Knaften project, host copper-nickel mineralization which was earlier discovered by Gungnir. Work at Hemberget is planned to coincide with drilling activities at the Company's high-grade Lappvattnet nickel deposit, further details to follow. Please refer to the following link for Hemberget maps (Figure 1).

The initially planned ground EM survey will consist of several widely-spaced profiles across the property, totally approximately 30 line-kilometres, using a Loupe EM system, a new portable time-domain electromagnetic (TEM) instrument. The survey will be carried out by Geovista AB, Lulea, Sweden.

The property occurs in the northern part of the Knaften greenstone belt, covering a thick package of dacite and rhyolite volcanics, including fragmentals, along side mafic pillow lavas, straddling the large magnetic anomaly which based on government mapping corresponds to the "Hemberget" gabbro-ultramafic intrusion (dated at 1.86 Ga). Initial field investigations in 2022 confirmed out-cropping gabbroic intrusive rocks and boulders, and additionally sulphide bearing sedimentary rocks, a key ingredient in magmatic sulphide deposition. Potential exists for volcanogenic massive sulphide (VMS) style mineralization on Hemberget as well. See news release dated April 7, 2022 which outlines Gungnir's staking acquisition of Hemberget.

The technical information in this news release has been prepared, verified and approved by Jari Paakki, P.Geo., CEO, and a director of the Company. Mr. Paakki is a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101.

About Gungnir Resources

Gungnir Resources Inc. is a Canadian-based TSX-V listed mineral exploration company (GUG: TSX-V, ASWRF: OTCPK) with gold and base metal projects in northern Sweden. Gungnir's assets include two nickel-copper-cobalt deposits, Lappvattnet and Rormyrberget, both with updated nickel resources, and the Knaften project which hosts a developing intrusion-hosted gold system, and VMS (zinc-copper) and copper-nickel targets, all of which are open for expansion and further discovery. The Company has also recently added the Hemberget property to its Swedish property portfolio which covers an 11 km long gabbro-ultramafic intrusion, a greenfield copper-nickel target. Further information about the Company and its properties may be found at www.gungnirresources.com or at www.sedar.com.

On behalf of the Board,

Jari Paakki, CEO and Director

For further information contact:

Head Office/Investor Relations

Phone: +1-604-683-0484

Email: corporatecommunications@gungnirresources.com

Jari Paakki, CEO

Email: jpaakki@eastlink.ca

Chris Robbins, CFO

Email: robbinscr@shaw.ca

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-Looking Information

Certain statements in this news release may constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws (also known as forward-looking statements). Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, and may cause actual results, performance or achievements or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements or industry results expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Forward-looking information generally can be identified by the use of terms and phrases such as "anticipate", "believe", "could", "estimate", "expect", "feel", "intend", "may", "plan", "predict", "project", "subject to", "will", "would", and similar terms and phrases, including references to assumptions. Some of the specific forward-looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to: the expectations that the geophysical survey will outline conductors related to copper-nickel mineralization; plans to coincide geophysical work with drilling activities and the timing thereof; and plans for advancement of its properties and the timing thereof.

Forward-looking information is based on a number of key expectations and assumptions made by Gungnir, including, without limitation: expectations of expanding and defining the existing resources are reasonable and possible; access to the resource will remain available; transportation and infrastructure will remain available as anticipated; the COVID-19 pandemic impact on the Canadian and global economy and Gungnir's business, and the extent and duration of such impact; no change to laws or regulations that negatively affect Gungnir's business; there will be a demand for Gungnir's services and products in the future; Gungnir will be able to operate its business as planned; Gungnir will be able to access capital markets on and successfully complete financings on terms it determines to be reasonable; and Gungnir's plans for future exploration and development of its properties is reasonable and will be possible within the anticipated timelines. Although the forward-looking information contained in this news release is based upon what Gungnir believes to be reasonable assumptions, it cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with such information.

Forward-looking information is provided for the purpose of presenting information about management's current expectations and plans relating to the future and readers are cautioned that such statements may not be appropriate for other purposes. Forward-looking information involves significant risks and uncertainties and should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results as actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking information. Those risks and uncertainties include, among other things, risks related to: no certainty that any economically viable mineral deposit will be located on Gungnir's properties; that Gungnir may not be able to complete its planned geophysics and drilling as anticipated; the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic; the impacts of war and/or other international conflicts; ability to access capital markets and complete successful financings on terms Gungnir determines to be reasonable; environmental matters; changes in legislation or regulations; receipt of required licenses, permits and approvals; and resource estimates may not be accurate and may differ significantly from actual mineral resources. Management believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information contained herein are based upon reasonable assumptions and information currently available; however, management can give no assurance that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking information. The forward-looking information contained this news release is expressly qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement. Forward-looking information reflects management's current beliefs and is based on information currently available to Gungnir. The forward-looking information is stated as of the date of this news release and Gungnir assumes no obligation to update or revise such information to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required by applicable law.

SOURCE: Gungnir Resources Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/749647/Gungnir-Plans-Geophysics-at-Hemberget-Sweden-Targets-Copper-Nickel-Mineralization
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Core Assets Corp., ("Core Assets" or the "Company") (CSE:CC)(FSE:5RJ)(OTCQB:CCOOF) is pleased to announce surficial assay results from the Falcon Target ("Falcon") - a historic vein-hosted gold-silver occurrence located 950m north-northeast of the Jackie CRD Target at the Silver Lime CRD-Porphyry Project ("Silver Lime"), north-central Blue Property ("Blue"); Atlin Mining District of NW British Columbia.

In 2022, prospecting and sampling located and extended the footprint of vein-hosted Ag-Au mineralization at the Falcon Target by 170 metres. Quartz veins sampled at the Falcon Extension in 2022 graded up to 19.5g/t Au, 33g/t Ag, 0.33% Pb, and 0.30% Sb (Figures 1, 2).

Historically, outcrop grab and chip sampling at Falcon identified two northwest trending quartz veins containing semi-massive arsenopyrite, stibnite, pyrite, and galena that returned an average grade of 3.67g/t Au, 2,641g/t Ag, 0.15% Cu, 2.50% Pb, 3.32% Zn, 5.78% As, and 2.56% Sb over a 2.2m channel sample1. This vein system is hosted in metasediments, was originally traced for 25 meters along strike and remains open under talus cover. To the northwest of the Falcon Target, smaller veins of similar composition hosted in quartz-feldspar porphyry breccia dykes historically graded up to 0.94g/t Au, 975g/t Ag, 1.2% Pb, and 0.9% Zn (Figure 2).

"In addition to the high-grade carbonate replacement occurrences discovered and sampled at the Silver Lime CRD-Porphyry Project, many historical and new high-grade vein-hosted occurrences were located and extended in 2022." said Core Assets' President & CEO, Nick Rodway. "Adding the presence of elevated vein-hosted gold and silver to the Silver Lime portfolio significantly increases our Property's metal endowment potential and exploration optionality. We are excited to continue to develop and test these high-grade targets in 2023."

Au-bearing semi-massive sulphide-quartz stringer veins and bleeders sampled near the Falcon Target historically assayed up to 1g/t Au and carried significant Ag grades of up to 4,870g/t, in addition to variable amounts of Pb, Zn, Cu, As, and Sb (Figure 2). Similar Ag-Au-bearing vein sets have been observed up to 7KM north-northwest of the Falcon Target, as well as in Jackie Target drill hole SLM22-004. These veins were identified and sampled by the Core Assets field team in 2021 and 2022 and graded up to 931g/t Ag with 6.75g/t Au (Figure 3).

Figure 1: Photographs of the Ag-Au-bearing quartz veins at the historic Falcon Target (Core Assets, 2022).

Figure 2: Schematic plan map of the Falcon and Jackie targets at the Silver Lime CRD-Porphyry Project showing surficial grab and channel sample locations, Au (g/t) assay highlights for new and historic1 samples (digitized) and 2022 Jackie diamond drilling highlights (stars), and local geology.

About the Falcon Ag-Au Target

The historic Falcon Zone was originally worked by Carmac Resources Ltd. in 1990. It consists of two exposed, northwest trending gold (Au) and silver (Ag)-bearing quartz veins that measure up to 1.2m wide. These veins are hosted in Florence Range limestone, metasediments, and quartz-feldspar porphyry breccia dykes, and contain visual semi-massive arsenopyrite, stibnite, pyrite, and galena. Historically a 2.2m chip sample collected from the Falcon Zone averaged 3.67g/t Au, 2,641g/t Ag, 0.15% Cu, 2.50% Pb and 3.32% Zn along with 5.78% As and 2.56% Sb.

Additionally, Au-bearing quartz-semi-massive sulphide stringer veins and bleeders are also present at the Falcon Zone and could be representative of a distal expression of the wide-spread carbonate replacement mineralization observed throughout the Silver Lime Project area. Quartz-sulphide veins typically carry significant Ag grades in addition to variable Au, As, Pb, Zn, Cu, and Sb. 1Visagie (1990). Geochemical and Geological Report on the Willison Creek Claims. ARIS report 21162

Figure 3: Schematic plan map of the Silver Lime CRD-Porphyry Project showing surficial grab and channel sample locations, Au (g/t) assay highlights for new and historic samples1, and local geology.

QA/QC and Sample Preparation

Rock samples collected from the Silver Lime CRD-Porphyry Project in 2022 were bagged, tagged, and labelled prior to being shipped by ground to ALS Preparation Facility in Whitehorse, YT where they were finely crushed and sieved to <75 microns. Samples were then shipped to ALS Geochemistry in North Vancouver, BC where they were analysed for gold by fire assay with an AA finish, over limits for Ag, Pb, Cu, Zn, and additional elements were analysed using four acid digestion with an ICP-AES finish.

National Instrument 43-101 Disclosure

Nicholas Rodway, P.Geo, (Licence# 46541) (Permit to Practice# 100359) is President, CEO and Director of the Company, and qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Rodway supervised the preparation of the technical information in this news release.

About Core Assets Corp.

Core Assets Corp. is a Canadian mineral exploration company focused on the acquisition and development of mineral projects in British Columbia, Canada. The Company currently holds 100% ownership in the Blue Property, which covers a land area of114,073.93 ha (~1,140 km). The Property lies within the Atlin Mining District, a well-known gold mining camp located in the unceded territory of the Taku River Tlingit First Nation and the Carcross/Tagish First Nation. The Blue Property hosts a major structural feature known as The Llewellyn Fault Zone ("LFZ"). This structure is approximately 140km in length and runs from the Tally-Ho Shear Zone in the Yukon, south through the Blue Property to the Alaskan Panhandle Juneau Ice Sheet in the United States. Core Assets believes that the south Atlin Lake area and the LFZ has been neglected since the last major exploration campaigns in the 1980's. The LFZ plays an important role in mineralization of near surface metal occurrences across the Blue Property. The past 50 years have seen substantial advancements in the understanding of porphyry, skarn, and carbonate replacement type deposits both globally and in BC's Golden Triangle. The Company has leveraged this information at the Blue Property to tailor an already proven exploration model and believes this could facilitate a major discovery. Core Assets is excited to become one of Atlin Mining District's premier explorers where its team believes there are substantial opportunities for new discoveries and development in the area.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors

CORE ASSETS CORP.

"Nicholas Rodway"

President & CEO

Tel: 604.681.1568

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.

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

Statements in this document which are not purely historical are forward-looking statements, including any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations, or intentions regarding the future. Forward looking statements in this news release include expectations regarding speculative inferences about potential copper, molybdenum, gold, silver, zinc, and lead grades based on preliminary visual observations from results of sampling at the Blue Property; that the Company's plans to further investigate the geometry and extent of the skarn and carbonate replacement type mineralization continuum at Silver Lime through additional field work and diamond drilling; the proposed diamond drilling program planned for Silver Lime in 2023; that drilling efforts will aim to confirm and extend certain targets and mineralization on the property; that the Company's exploration model could facilitate a major discovery at the Blue Property; that the Company anticipates it can become one of the Atlin Mining District's premier explorers and that there are substantial opportunities for new discoveries and development in this area. It is important to note that the Company's actual business outcomes and exploration results could differ materially from those in such forward-looking statements; that the Company may be unable to implement its plans to further explore the Blue Property and, in particular, that the proposed diamond drilling program planned for Silver Lime may not proceed as anticipated or at all; that drilling efforts may not confirm and extend any targets or mineralization on the Silver Lime; that the Company's exploration model may fail to facilitate any commercial discovery of minerals at the Blue Property; that the Company may not become one of Atlin Mining District's premier explorers or that the area may be found to lack opportunities for new discoveries and development, as anticipated; that further permits may not be granted in a timely manner, or at all; that the mineral claims may prove to be unworthy of further expenditure; there may not be an economic mineral resource; that certain exploration methods, including the Company's proposed exploration model for the Blue Property, may be ineffective or inadequate in the circumstances; that economic, competitive, governmental, geopolitical, environmental and technological factors may affect the Company's operations, markets, products and prices; our specific plans and timing drilling, field work and other plans may change; we may not have access to or be able to develop any minerals because of cost factors, type of terrain, or availability of equipment and technology; and we may also not raise sufficient funds to carry out or complete our plans. Additional risk factors are discussed in the section entitled "Risk Factors" in the Company's Management Discussion and Analysis for its recently completed fiscal period, which is available under the Company's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com . Except as required by law, the Company will not update or revise these forward-looking statements after the date of this document or to revise them to reflect the occurrence of future unanticipated events.

SOURCE: Core Assets Corp.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/749625/Core-Assets-Samples-195gt-Au-at-the-Falcon-Target
"Inducing Better Patient Outcomes, Substantial Cost Savings"

REDWOOD CITY, CA / ACCESSWIRE / April 11, 2023 / Biotricity, Inc. (NASDAQ:BTCY) ("Biotricity" or the "Company"), a leading medical diagnostic and consumer healthcare technology company, has released its first Corporate Impact Report- revealing that the company's remote, clinical-grade diagnostic devices are inducing "better patient outcomes and substantial cost savings" across the nation.

Presenting new data, the report highlights specific examples of Biotricity's impact on "reforming the healthcare market by bridging the gap between effective remote diagnostics, remote patient monitoring and chronic care management."

The report, for example, provides new, compelling data on the impact of Bioflux, Biotricity's high-precision, single-unit mobile cardiac telemetry device that provides real-time monitoring and transmission of ECG information, and Biotres, a revolutionary holter technology for remote patient monitoring.

Through the continuous monitoring provided by Bioflux or Biotres, atrial fibrillation can be detected and treated with ablation, avoiding the risk of a stroke.

According to the new report:

Over the past two years, we have had 14,732 patients diagnosed with AF who suffered from intermittent symptoms of syncope, chest pain, palpitations, and supra ventricular tachycardia. By providing these patients with the ability to receive early intervention with anticoagulant therapy or ablation, they could avoid the chance of stroke, thus saving over $330 million for them alone. For patients who may have suffered a stroke due to late diagnosis, these financial savings extend beyond $1.147 billion.

"Biotricity's 2023 Corporate Impact Report reflects our undeniable dedication to our mission of supporting the self-management of critical and chronic conditions, starting with cardiac care, by introducing innovative technologies," said Biotricity Founder and CEO Dr. Waqaas Al-Siddiq. "Our overriding goal is to drive better patient outcomes while reducing healthcare system costs. We look forward to the growth and milestones we'll see in future impact reports as we continue to foster cardiac disease prevention."

Biotricity's rapidly growing impact is further demonstrated by an expanding network of over 300 centers across 30+ states working with over 2,000+ physicians.

About Biotricity

Biotricity is reforming the healthcare market by bridging the gap in remote monitoring and chronic care management. Doctors and patients trust Biotricity's unparalleled standard for preventive and personal care, including diagnostic and post-diagnostic solutions for chronic conditions. The company develops comprehensive remote health monitoring solutions for the medical and consumer markets. To learn more, visit www.biotricity.com.

Important Cautions Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Any statements contained in this press release that do not describe historical facts may constitute forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements, which involve assumptions and describe our future plans, strategies, and expectations, are generally identifiable by use of the words "may," "should," "would," "will," "could," "scheduled," "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "believe," "intend," "seek," "project," or "goal" or the negative of these words or other variations on these words or comparable terminology. Forward-looking statements may include, without limitation, statements regarding (i) the plans, objectives and goals of management for future operations, including plans, objectives or goals relating to the design, development and commercialization of Bioflux or any of the Company's other proposed products or services, (ii) a projection of income (including income/loss), earnings (including earnings/loss) per share, capital expenditures, dividends, capital structure or other financial items, (iii) the Company's future financial performance, (iv) the regulatory regime in which the Company operates or intends to operate and (v) the assumptions underlying or relating to any statement described in points (i), (ii), (iii) or (iv) above. Such forward-looking statements are not meant to predict or guarantee actual results, performance, events or circumstances and may not be realized because they are based upon the Company's current projections, plans, objectives, beliefs, expectations, estimates and assumptions and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties and other influences, many of which the Company has no control over. Actual results and the timing of certain events and circumstances may differ materially from those described by the forward-looking statements as a result of these risks and uncertainties. Factors that may influence or contribute to the inaccuracy of the forward-looking statements or cause actual results to differ materially from expected or desired results may include, without limitation, the Company's inability to obtain additional financing, the significant length of time and resources associated with the development of its products and related insufficient cash flows and resulting illiquidity, the Company's inability to expand the Company's business, significant government regulation of medical devices and the healthcare industry, lack of product diversification, existing or increased competition, results of arbitration and litigation, stock volatility and illiquidity, and the Company's failure to implement the Company's business plans or strategies. These and other factors are identified and described in more detail in the Company's filings with the SEC. There cannot be any assurance that the Company will ever become profitable. The Company assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements in order to reflect any event or circumstance that may arise after the date of this release.

SOURCE: Biotricity, Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/748182/Leading-Medical-Biometric-Firm-Biotricity-Releases-First-Corporate-Impact-Report
Stilla Technologies today announced the availability of 20 new digital PCR assays, optimized for its Crystal Digital PCR platform, the naica system, to be utilized for the detection of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) from liquid biopsy samples. Produced by distributor and technology partner ApexBio, these digital PCR kits are designed for the absolute quantitation of nucleic acids from genetic mutations found across a widespread range of oncological indications.

"The release of these assays, in addition to our other available ready-to-use kits, is a continuation of Stilla's strategy to offer an ever-growing menu of content covering an increasing number of clinically-relevant biomarkers," says Remi Dangla, Founder and Chief Technology Officer at Stilla Technologies. "By expanding the volume of gene targets available for interrogation in patient samples using an easy-to-perform digital PCR test, we're empowering research and clinical scientists to leverage their own labs in order to get answers to their biological questions, in a matter of just a couple of hours."

The naica system, the flagship digital PCR platform from Stilla Technologies, is used across a broad spectrum of applications, including oncology, cell and gene therapy, and environmental testing. The company offers off-the-shelf digital PCR kits for use on the naica system, as well as assay development services for custom assay design.

Stilla Technologies is currently exhibiting at the Annual Meeting meeting of the American Association of Cancer Research (AACR) where the naica system will be featured in several scientific posters, including research in collaboration with Promega Corporation, Atila Biosystems, and University of Athens. More information on Stilla product offerings and scientific posters can be obtained at Stilla's exhibition booth #3172 from our scientific specialists.

About Stilla Technologies

Stilla Technologies is the multiplex digital PCR company transforming complex genomic data into actionable insights across a wide range of research and clinical applications including cancer and liquid biopsy studies, cell and gene therapies, infectious disease detection, and food and environmental testing. Stilla's groundbreaking Crystal Digital PCR solution, the naica system, is the industry's first digital PCR system featuring six fluorescent channels, providing biomedical researchers and clinicians the highest multiplexing and detection capacity available on the market. Stilla has U.S. headquarters in Boston, MA, European headquarters in Paris, France, and strategic distribution and business partnerships in China and throughout EMEA. To learn more, visit www.stillatechnologies.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005848/en/

Contacts:

Media contact Christopher Hynes

christopher.hynes@stillatechnologies.com
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - April 18, 2023) - Kingsmen Resources Ltd. (TSXV: KNG) (OTCQB: KNGRD) ("Kingsmen" or the "Company") is pleased to report the acquisition of the Silvia Mine project area adjacent to its 100%-owned, Las Coloradas project to the west. The Company now controls 8.45 km2 of the district.

Scott Emerson, President commented: "With this acquisition the Company has now acquired all claims immediately surrounding the original Las Coloradas project."

The property contains old mine workings, prospective geology, and structural and geophysical targets. Prior to acquiring the ground the Company conducted limited reconnaissance prospecting on a small number of targets on the property, and on adjacent parts of the Las Coloradas project, and found significant bedrock exposure and overburden of variable thickness. Significantly, the old workings appear to follow a northeast structural trend in contrast to the northwest structural trend of the old Las Coloradas mine workings. A northeast structural trend is the main control on mineralization at Discovery Silver's Cordero silver deposit, 35 km northeast of Parral.

The Silvia mine is situated 3.0 km west of the old Las Coloradas mine workings and there is an area of approximately 3.5 km2 of highly prospective ground between the two. Government aeromagnetic data indicates the presence of large scale igneous intrusive activity in the area that may have associated porphyry, skarn or epithermal mineralization. These styles of mineralization have already been identified in the old Las Coloradas mine workings.

The claim was purchased from an arm's length vendor independent from the company and the vendor of the Las Coloradas project claims. This purchase is an exempt transaction under policies of the TSX.V. The vendor does retain a 1% net smelter return royalty.

Project

The Las Coloradas Project is located along the eastern flanks of the Sierra Madre Occidental Volcanic Province within the north-east portion of the Central Mexican Silver Belt. The Parral mining district is situated in the center of the Mexican silver belt epithermal silver-gold vein district. The Las Coloradas Project is located at the southeastern corner of the Parral mining district, approximately 30 kilometers southeast of the city of Hildago de Parral and 40 kilometers east of the San Francisco de Oro and Santa Barbera mining districts where several old major mines are located, such as La Prieta, Veta Colorada, Palmilla, Esmeralda, San Francisco del Oro and Santa Barbara are located. As well, new major mining projects are currently being explored in the district; Cordero (Discovery Silver Corp.), 35 kms north of Parral, and La Cigarra (Kootenay Silver Inc.), 35 kms northwest of Parral. Click here to see locator map, https://www.kingsmenresources.com/area-history.





Kingsmen Land Holdings

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9640/162759_3086621204ff3a2b_001full.jpg

Qualified Person

Kieran Downes, Ph.D., P.Geo., a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical disclosure set out in this news release.

About Kingsmen Resources

In line with Kingsmen's organic-growth strategy, the Company's focus is on exploration and development, and is currently focused on district-scale exploration for precious metals in the prolific mining districts of Parral Mexico. In addition, the company has a 1% NSR on the Los Ricos North project operated by GoGold Resources Inc. The Company's leaders have extensive experience in the mining and financial sectors. KNG is a publicly-traded company (TSXV: KNG) (OTCQB: KNGRD) and is headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia.

On behalf of the Board,

Signed: "Scott Emerson"

Scott Emerson,

President & CEO

Phone: 6046859316

Email: se@kingsmenresources.com

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-Looking Statement:

All statements, trend analysis and other information contained in this press release about anticipated future events or results constitute forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "seek", "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "estimate", "expect" and "intend" and statements that an event or result "may", "will", "should", "could" or "might" occur or be achieved and other similar expressions. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein, including, without limitation, statements regarding the completion of the acquisition of the Las Coloradas Project and receipt of regulatory approval, are forward-looking statements. Although Kingsmen believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements and/or information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements since Kingsmen can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements, including the risks, uncertainties and other factors identified in Kingsmen's periodic filings with Canadian securities regulators, and assumptions made with regard to: Kingsmen's ability to make the required payments under the definitive agreements; and Kingsmen's ability to secure the necessary regulatory approvals. Forward-looking statements are subject to business and economic risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results of operations to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from Kingsmen's expectations include risks associated with the business of Kingsmen; risks related to the satisfaction or waiver of certain conditions to the closing of the acquisition of the Las Coloradas Project; non-completion of the acquisition of the Las Coloradas Project; risks related to exploration and potential development of the Las Coloradas Project; business and economic conditions in the mining industry generally; fluctuations in commodity prices and currency exchange rates; uncertainties relating to interpretation of drill results and the geology, continuity and grade of mineral deposits; the need for cooperation of government agencies in the exploration and development of properties and the issuance of required permits; the need to obtain additional financing to develop properties and uncertainty as to the availability and terms of future financing; the possibility of delay in exploration or development programs and uncertainty of meeting anticipated program milestones; uncertainty as to timely availability of permits and other governmental approvals; and other risk factors as detailed from time to time and additional risks identified in Kingsmen's filings with Canadian securities regulators on SEDAR in Canada (available at www.sedar.com). Forward-looking statements are based on estimates and opinions of management at the date the statements are made. Kingsmen does not undertake any obligation to update forward looking statements except as required by applicable securities laws. Investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/162759
The 10-year supply agreement covers the plant in Bunuel, in the autonomous community of Navarra, and will save the paper group 12,870 metric tons of CO2 per year.

PORCAR, ITALY / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Sofidel, one of the world's leading paper groups for the production of paper for hygienic and domestic use known particularly in Italy and Europe for its Regina brand, has signed a long-term supply agreement in Spain with ACCIONA Energia, one of the main players in Spain for renewable energy.

The agreement, a 10-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), will provide the Bunuel plant in the autonomous community of Navarra with 90 gigawatt hours per year of renewable electricity from ACCIONA Energia's renewable facilities in Spain. This will save the paper group 12,870 metric tons of CO2 emissions per year.

The agreement provides for the supply of electricity with 100% renewable origin accreditation certified by Spain's National Commission for Markets and Competition (CNMC), as well as access to ACCIONA Energia's GREENCHAIN application, a platform based on blockchain technology that allows the renewable origin of energy to be tracked in real-time. Using this tool, Sofidel will know which ACCIONA Energia production plant and which renewable source supplied each MW to its plant.

"In line with its path toward a low-carbon economy, Sofidel is pursuing a multi-option energy procurement policy, linked to the different legislative, infrastructural and environmental contexts in which it operates" explains Riccardo Balducci, Sofidel Energy & Environment Director. "The signing of the PPA with ACCIONA Energia fits into this pattern and represents a decisive step toward achieving our goals."

Javier Montes, Commercial Director from ACCIONA Energia, comments: "PPAs represent a valuable ally for companies committed to energy transition and emissions abatement. With this agreement, ACCIONA Energia consolidates its partnership with Sofidel and helps support the Group in achieving its sustainability goals."



Sofidel's 2030 CO2 emission reduction targets have been approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) as consistent with the reductions needed in order to limit global warming to well below 2C under the Paris Agreement. These objectives include a 40% reduction in Scope 1, Scope 2 and Scope 3 CO2 emissions in relation to its suppliers' pulp production activities;in addition to a further objective of a 24% reduction in Scope 3 CO2 emissions per metric ton of paper.

A commitment to fight climate change that has enabled Sofidel to once again, in2022, rank in the Leadership band of the Climate Change rating of the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP),among the leading independent international organizations measuring environmental performance, and obtained for the second consecutive year the Platinum recognition from EcoVadis for its approach to sustainability confirming its place among the top 1% of companies in its sector worldwide.

About?The?Sofidel?Group????

The?Sofidel?Group, a privately held company owned by the Stefani and?Lazzareschi?families, is a world leader in the manufacture of paper for hygienic and domestic use. Founded in 1966, the Group has?subsidiaries in 12 countries - Italy, Spain, the UK, France, Belgium, Germany, Sweden, Poland, Hungary, Greece, Romania, and the USA - with more than 6,400 employees. A member of the UN Global Compact and the international WWF Climate Savers program, the?Sofidel?Group considers sustainability a strategic imperative and is?committed?to promoting sustainable development.? For more information, visit?www.sofidel.com.??????? ?

Media Contact:????

Brianna Fitzpatrick?

Mulberry Marketing Communications?

bfitzpatrick@mulberrymc.com?

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Sofidel on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Sofidel

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/sofidel

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: Sofidel

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/749811/Sofidel-100-Renewable-Energy-Tracked-via-Blockchain-From-the-PPA-Signed-in-Spain-With-ACCIONA-Energa
Sure Underwriting Workbench offers a single view of the world to underwriters with an API-first strategy and automates routine underwriting processes with a highly configurable rules engine.

Insurity, a leading provider of cloud-based software for insurance carriers, brokers, and MGAs, announced today that it is launching its Sure Underwriting Workbench in the London market. Sure Underwriting Workbench's low code, configurable rules engine empowers London market carriers, MGAs, syndicates, and brokers to focus more on risk assessment and less on routine tasks to increase underwriting efficiency.

Insurance organizations in the London market face steep challenges, especially regarding quickly and efficiently assessing risk and navigating an increasingly complex regulatory environment. Additionally, carriers and syndicates must adopt the newly pledged Blueprint Two initiative, the digital services framework based on ACORD standards, that will make the placement, accounting, and claims settlement more efficient and establish a standard core data record (CDR).

Sure Underwriting Workbench automates routine decisions by coordinating work and collecting information into a single platform, allowing underwriters to dedicate more capacity to assessing the complex risks expected in the London market. Sure Underwriting Workbench is agnostic and capable of integrating with any rating system and can access data from any API-enabled system. These capabilities can reduce the underwriting tools required by 50%, consolidating all data, documents, and decisions into a single platform and making the adoption of the CDR and the wider Blueprint Two initiatives more manageable.

"The London market is undergoing a massive digitalization initiative, and carriers, syndicates, and others need underwriting solutions that can easily interact in the future digital ecosystem," said Sylvester Mathis, Chief Insurance Officer. "Sure Underwriting Workbench integrates with any system, and the Blueprint Two framework will enable Sure Underwriting to accelerate and simplify insurance organizations' digital transformation. Underwriting efficiencies realized through reporting dashboards, collaborative workflows, and easy-to-use APIs drive the required return on investment."

To learn more about how Sure Underwriting Workbench can benefit your organization, please contact Elizabeth Hutchinson at Elizabeth.Hutchinson@insurity.com.

About Insurity

Insurity is a leading provider of cloud-based software for insurance carriers, brokers, and MGAs. Insurity is trusted by 22 of the top 25 P&C carriers and 7 of the top 10 MGAs in the US and has over 400 cloud-based deployments. Through its best-in-class digital platform and with unrivaled industry experience and the industry's most robust analytics offerings, Insurity is uniquely positioned to deliver exceptional value, empowering customers to focus on their core businesses, optimize their operations, and provide superior policyholder experiences. Insurity is a portfolio company of GI Partners and TA Associates. For more information, visit www.insurity.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005901/en/

Contacts:

Elizabeth Hutchinson

Elizabeth.Hutchinson@insurity.com
NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Aegis Capital Corp., - Aegis Capital Corp. (www.aegiscapcorp.com) a full-service wealth management, financial services and investment banking firm is pleased to announce the addition of the Standard Integrity Wealth Management team located in Rochester, New York. The group is led by Nicholas Trifiro, Managing Director.

Nicholas Trifiro has over 25 years of experience in the financial services industry and manages in excess of $100 million in client assets. Nick is the founder of Standard Integrity Wealth Management, LLC1, and joined Aegis as a Managing Director. Nick earned a bachelor's degree in business management from St. John Fisher University in 1988 and gained real world experience working in management positions in the commercial printing and gaming industries in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Nick then returned to Rochester in 1993 to work for Paychex, one of the country's premier payroll processing companies. During this time, he helped launch the 401k retirement plan department for small businesses and simultaneously earned a Graduate Certificate from the Industrial Labor Relations Department at Cornell University.

Prior to joining Aegis, Nick began his career in the financial industry with UBS PaineWebber for 7 years, then went on to gain experience working at Investacorp, Inc. and Securities America, Inc. for roughly the next 20 years. In 2002, Nick established his independent practice to better align himself with the needs of the local community. Nick spends his time helping families and growing businesses throughout the upstate NY area with customized investment solutions, financial planning, family trust services and corporate retirement plan solutions. Although Nick is based in Rochester, NY, and focuses his time in the Rochester, Buffalo, and Syracuse areas he also maintains clients throughout the United States.

Robert Eide Aegis' CEO commented: "We are thrilled to have Nick and his team join Aegis. Nick has a thorough understanding of the wealth management business, as well as the importance of delivering a robust platform to clients. We appreciate the confidence they have shown in Aegis, and we look forward to supporting and helping them grow."

Michael Pata Aegis' Head of Business Development commented: "Our new office in Rochester reflects our commitment to growth and our focus on providing the best possible service to advisers. Aegis continues to offer a compelling alternative for advisers looking for a collaborative compliance team, a robust platform, and an accessible executive team. Nick and Standard Integrity Wealth Management are a welcomed addition to Aegis, and we look forward to enhancing their practice."

About Aegis Capital Corporation

Aegis Capital Corporation "Aegis" has been in business for roughly 40 years catering to the needs of private clients, institutions and corporations. Aegis was founded in 1984 and offers its investment representatives a conflict free service platform and is able to provide a full range of products and services including investment banking, wealth management, insurance, retirement planning, structured products, private equity, alternatives, equity research, fixed income and special purpose vehicles.Aegis is able to provide quality service through its primary clearing relationship with RBC Clearing & Custody whose parent company, Royal Bank of Canada (NYSE:RY), is one of the world's leading diversified financial services companies. Member: FINRA / SIPC.

1 Standard Integrity Wealth Management, LLC -Brokerage and investment advisory services are offered through Aegis Capital Corporation, a Member: FINRA/SIPC

Any questions contact:

Michael Pata, Head of Business Development

Telephone: 1-212-813-1010

mpata@aegiscap.com

www.aegiscapcorp.com

SOURCE: Aegis Capital Corp.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/749824/Aegis-Capital-Corp-Announces-the-Opening-of-the-Rochester-NY-Location
DENVER, CO / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / The Care Synergy network of home healthcare, hospice and palliative care providers along the Front Range of Colorado is launching a Nursing Assistant Training Program.

The Program will begin on May 8, 2023, and will offer two week training programs for those seeking certification as a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA).

Training classes will be held in collaboration with The Denver Hospice, an Affiliate agency within the Care Synergy family of companies, at their hospice inpatient care center located at 8289 E. Lowry Boulevard, Denver, CO, 80230. The hands on, clinical training portions of the two-week class will be completed at Holly Heights Nursing Care Center at 6000 E. Iliff Avenue, Denver, CO, 80222.

Taught by experienced hospice and palliative care educators and RNs, the Program can be completed in only two weeks. With successful completion, participants will be prepared to take the state required examinations to receive certification as a CNA.

For more information, and to register for classes, please visit www.caresynergynetwork.org/cnatraining/ Information is also available through The Denver Hospice, www.thedenverhospice.org/cnatraining and the Colorado Visiting Nurse Association, www.vnacolorado.org/cnatraining

Because these classes are being offered by Care Synergy, those seeking employment as a CNA can be hired by The Denver Hospice or the Colorado Visiting Nurse Association, prior to receiving their CNA certification. Those hired in training roles will be paid to attend classes, receive free tuition for the two-week class and, upon successful completion and certification, will be hired as a CNA at either The Denver Hospice or Colorado VNA. Certain conditions apply to receive pay as a trainee and free tuition.

About Care Synergy: Care Synergy provides mission-support services for not-for-profit, community-based home healthcare, hospice and palliative care providers serving the Front Range of Colorado including the Colorado Visiting Nurse Association, The Denver Hospice, Pathways and Pikes Peak Hospice and Palliative Care. Care Synergy affiliate organizations operate as distinct organizations while sharing best practices and helping more Coloradoans. For more information, visit www.caresynergynetwork.org.

About the Denver Hospice: The Denver Hospice is the region's leading, largest, and most trusted not-for-profit provider of life-enhancing hospice and palliative care. The Denver Hospice can offer more expertise, more resources, and a more complete continuum of compassionate care to patients facing life-limiting illnesses and end-of-life transition. The Denver Hospice is an affiliate of the Care Synergy network and can be reached at (303) 321-2828. For more information, visit www.thedenverhospice.org

About Colorado VNA: Colorado Visiting Nurse Association (Colorado VNA) is a member of the Care Synergy Network and serves Coloradans as the state's leading home health care agency. Colorado VNA provides quality and compassionate care, ranging from preventive to recovery to palliative and end-of-life, in the home and community. For more information, visit www.vnacolorado.org

Contact Information:

Patricia Mehnert

Vice President of Quality, Compliance and Education

Care Synergy

pmehnert@caresynergynetwork.org

(303) 329-7400

SOURCE: Care Synergy Network

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/749712/Care-Synergy-Launches-Nursing-Assistant-Training-Program--Participants-Can-Complete-Training-in-Two-Weeks
CHARLOTTE, NC / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Discovery Education and The Hartford today announced a new edition of the Junior Fire Marshal Training Academy, a popular educational program preparing students with knowledge about fire safety and prevention. Designed to teach students in grades K-3 how to prevent fires and what to do if they face one, the program offers free resources that help build a fire-safe culture. The Hartford is a leader in property and casualty insurance, group benefits and mutual funds, and Discovery Education is the worldwide edtech leader whose state-of-the-art digital platform supports learning wherever it takes place.

This new partnership with Discovery Education builds upon The Hartford's long-standing Junior Fire Marshal program, one of the country's oldest corporate-sponsored public education programs. Since 1947, more than 112 million children across the country have earned the title of Junior Fire Marshal. Over the next three years, the partnership will help The Hartford meet its goal of educating an additional 1.5 million students.

Expanding upon the success of The Junior Fire Marshal program, The Hartford partnered with Discovery Education to reach more students, educators, and families across the United States with free content through Junior Fire Marshal Training Academy. A collection of standards-aligned resources - including classroom and family activities, engaging videos, and ready-to-use lesson plans - empower educators and families to connect students to fire safety skills. As students explore the essentials of fire safety, they can earn a Junior Fire Marshal Certificate.

Learn more about Junior Fire Marshal Training Academy at JuniorFireMarshal.DiscoveryEducation.com or within Discovery Education's K-12 learning platform. Connecting educators to a vast collection of high-quality, standards-aligned content, ready-to-use digital lessons, intuitive quiz and activity creation tools, and professional learning resources, Discovery Education provides educators with an enhanced learning platform that facilitates engaging, daily instruction.

"We are proud to stand with The Hartford to provide life-saving lessons for students nationwide," said Amy Nakamoto, General Manager of Social Impact at Discovery Education. "Connecting students to fire safety today builds knowledge and confidence for lifelong security."

For more information about Discovery Education's award-winning digital resources-which can be purchased with federal stimulus funds-and professional learning services, visit www.discoveryeducation.com, and stay connected with Discovery Education on social media through Twitter and LinkedIn.

About Discovery Education

Discovery Education is the worldwide edtech leader whose state-of-the-art digital platform supports learning wherever it takes place. Through its award-winning multimedia content, instructional supports, and innovative classroom tools, Discovery Education helps educators deliver equitable learning experiences engaging all students and supporting higher academic achievement on a global scale. Discovery Education serves approximately 4.5 million educators and 45 million students worldwide, and its resources are accessed in over 100 countries and territories. Inspired by the global media company Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc. Discovery Education partners with districts, states, and trusted organizations to empower teachers with leading edtech solutions that support the success of all learners. Explore the future of education at www.discoveryeducation.com.

Contacts

Grace Maliska

Discovery Education

gmaliska@discoveryed.com





View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Discovery Education on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Discovery Education

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/discovery-education

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: Discovery Education

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/749825/The-Hartford-and-Discovery-Education-Focus-on-Fire-Safety-With-a-New-Education-Initiative
April 18, 2023

Latest clinical data set of 200,000 patients from over 200 hospitals, includes pandemic data for a broader and dependable foundation for machine learning

Amsterdam, the Netherlands and Cambridge, MA, USA - Royal Philips at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) to allow health care researchers access to a new critical care data set to help advance machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare. The updated eICU Collaborative Research Database (eICU-CRD) includes de-identified data of 200,000 critical care patients, including patients who were impacted by COVID-19. The broader and clinically dependable data set will support the development of solutions that improve patient care and clinical outcomes.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, eICU and critical care saw a dramatic increase of patients and unique challenges in the way that care was provided, prompting Philips and IMES to expand the original data set, first released in 2016. The new secure database includes de-identified and detailed clinical information such as vital signs, pharmacy and medication orders, laboratory results, diagnoses, and novel severity of illness scores. The dataset gives comprehensive insights on patient treatments, co-morbidities, readmissions, and clinical outcomes.

Researchers at Philips and the Laboratory of Computational Physiology within IMES will grant researchers around the world access to the data to help develop advanced algorithms and provide new insights on critical care. The Laboratory of Computational Physiology will continue to serve as the academic research hub for the initiative and will provide and maintain access, as well as help educate researchers on the database and offer a platform for collaboration. The database is available for medical research, to those who are credentialed, who take human subjects training, and who agree to a data use agreement.

"The database, which includes patient information from 2020 and 2021, now contains significant overlap with the Covid-19 pandemic, yielding valuable patient data for research," said Leo Anthony Celi, principal research scientist and clinical research director at the Laboratory of Computational Physiology at IMES. "This updated database is a vital resource for education, including in many courses at institutions like Harvard, MIT and Stanford; and training, as well as low-resource institutions," said Jesse D. Raffa, research scientist in the Lab for Computational Physiology at IMES.

The eICU-CRD is the only dataset containing detailed critical care data from over 200 hospitals across the U.S., representing many 'real-world' challenges for successful deployment of algorithms and models, which are often not readily apparent in single-center datasets. Unlike other organizations that do not share data or only share single source data sets, Philips shares its data with credentialled researchers to help advance AI for improving outcomes in human health. More than 3,000 users have used the original database with citations in over 660 published academic research papers, including in Nature, The New England Journal of Medicine and the Journal of the American Medical Association.

"This initiative demonstrates our commitment to advancing machine learning and AI efforts, by making eICU data available for global research initiatives," said Shiv Gopalkrishnan, General Manager of EMR & Care Management at Philips. "This is how we can enhance patient care and improve clinical outcomes: liberating and connecting data across systems and applications with integrated devices, systems and informatics, which can inform research with patient insights that can help clinicians make the right decision at the right time for their patients."

For further information, please contact:





Silvie Casanova

Philips North America

Tel.+1 781 879 0692

E-mail: silvie.casanova@philips.com

Anna Hogrebe

Philips Global Press Office

Tel.: +1 416 270 6757

E-mail: anna.hogrebe@philips.com



Mindy Blodgett

MIT IMES

Tel.+1 617 324 4019

E-mail: mblodget@mit.edu





About Royal Philips

Royal Philips.

About IMES

The Institute for Medical Engineering and Science.

Attachment
The full text of the resolutions can be found in the Notice of Annual General Meeting set out in the Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 2022, which has previously been submitted to the National Storage Mechanism and is available for inspection at: https://data.fca.org.uk/#/nsm/nationalstoragemechanism The results of the poll were as follows:

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.
Autel Energy, a leading developer of electric vehicle (EV) charging products, is pleased to announce the launch of its 12-month European Roadshow. The company will be showcasing its products and solutions to potential customers throughout Europe using two custom-built vehicles the Infowheels Crafter and the Branding Egg Steamer.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005913/en/

The Custom-built Vehicles for the Road Show (Photo: Business Wire)

On the vehicles, Autel will display its innovative EV charging solutions for both home and commercial scenarios. The MaxiCharger AC Compact and MaxiCharger AC Elite are designed for residential charging scenarios, while the MaxiCharger AC Ultra and MaxiCharger DC Compact are ideal for commercial charging scenarios. New products will also be displayed.

Having just finished the promotion tours in the UK and the Netherlands in March, the roadshow for April will kick off at IMREDD (9 rue Julien Laupretre 06200 Nice, France) before heading to Italy, the Nordic countries, Germany, and Spain in the coming months.

The roadshow aims to raise awareness about Autel Energy's EV charging products and to help potential customers understand how they can benefit from them. The roadshow will also provide an opportunity for customers to try out the products and speak with Autel's staff.

As part of its commitment to promoting sustainable mobility, Autel Energy always follows the trend in the EV industry by attending relevant exhibitions. Apart from Drive to Zero which concluded in Paris early this April, Autel Energy will also be attending the Hannover Messe on April 17-19, and the Fully Charged LIVE UK South on April 28-30.

"We are excited to launch our European Roadshow to showcase our innovative EV charging solutions to potential customers throughout Europe," said Ting Cai, CEO of Autel Europe. "We believe that our products can help accelerate the transition to a clean energy future and we look forward to demonstrating to our customers how we can help them with our solutions."

Autel Energy invites everyone to join the roadshow and learn more about Autel's products. The company is committed to increasing the availability of Autel EV charging products throughout Europe and beyond, and help promote sustainable mobility around the world.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005913/en/

Contacts:

Jojo Qian

jojo.qian@autel.com

Jiaqi Liu

Jiaqi.liu@autel.com
NEW YORK, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The motor monitoring market is projected to generate USD 3,916 million by 2030, advancing at a CAGR of 7.9%, according to P&S Intelligence.





This can be ascribed to the increasing need for prognostic maintenance and the fact that the procedure can be advanced with appropriate analytics. The substantial damage that can be triggered by the failure of even one motor in a factory makes users focus on electric motor monitoring.

Get the sample pages of this report: https://www.psmarketresearch.com/market-analysis/motor-monitoring-market/report-sample

Software Is Mostly Installed On Premises

In 2022, on the basis of deployment, the on-premises category led the industry with a 68% share. The conservative technique for integrating motor monitoring solutions throughout an organization is on-site computers and servers.

Industrial users majorly select on-premises solutions as they permit control over the information and guarantee its confidentiality. Other benefits of on-premises software are better-quality system supervision and less dependence on external elements, such as networks, as the hardware, information, and software are managed by the company that owns it.

Oil & Gas Sector To Experience Considerable Growth in Solution Demand

In the coming years, the oil & gas category is set to witness significant growth, of 8.4%. Oil and gas companies employ some of the most-complicated and critical industrial production machines.

Additionally, there can be significant economic and environmental consequences as a result of a loosening, misalignment, wear, or disbalance in the bearing.

Induction motors are a major machine in the oil and gas industry because of their flexibility and robustness. They play a vital role in offering rotational energy, which several different systems, both small and big, within an oil or gas refinery require.

Severe Guidelines and Energy Audits by Governments Worldwide

Several governments have established power standards, which oversee the energy utilization of electrical equipment. Motor screening provides systematic methods for lessening safety worries, optimizing prices, and advancing industrial systems' function and maintenance. It also helps in taking decisions about the power mix, energy efficiency, and supply.

Solution Demand in APAC Is Projected To Witness Fastest Market Growth

Because of the extensive industrialization in countries such as India and China, the Asia-Pacific region is projected to witness a market growth of 8.8% in the coming few years.

Browse detailed report on Motor Monitoring Market Share, Growth, Development and Demand Forecast to 2030

One of the main sectors in India in terms of its contribution to the GDP is manufacturing. Making India profitable for domestic and international companies and uplifting its economy to a worldwide scale are the aims of the government's Make in India program. Additionally, the nation's manufacturing sector is projected to be worth approximately USD 1,100 billion by the end of 2023.

Motor Monitoring Market Segmentation Coverage in the Report

Motor Monitoring Market by Offering

Hardware

Software

Services

Motor Monitoring Market by Deployment

On-premise

Cloud

Motor Monitoring Market by Monitoring Process

Online

Offline/Portable

Motor Monitoring Market by End user

Automotive

Oil & Gas

Metals & Mining

Power Generation

Water & Wastewater Treatment

Food & Beverages

Chemicals

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About P&S Intelligence

P&S Intelligence provides market research and consulting services to a vast array of industries across the world. As an enterprising research and consulting company, P&S believes in providing thorough insights on the ever-changing market scenario, to empower companies to make informed decisions and base their business strategies with astuteness. P&S keeps the interest of its clients at heart, which is why the insights we provide are both honest and accurate. Our long list of satisfied clients includes entry-level firms as well as multi-million-dollar businesses and government agencies.

Contact:

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P&S Intelligence

Phone: +1-347-960-6455

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NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / The Consumer Goods Forum



As brands and retailers, consumer goods companies rely on forest ecosystems to provide essential commodities, along with the millions of people employed in global supply chains who live and work in forests. However, they are often far away from the landscapes and regions where these commodities are sourced. To transform the consumer goods industry to forest positive and meet emerging targets, including the COP15 Global Biodiversity Framework's 3030 goal, businesses need to look beyond their individual supply chains to ensure these landscapes can both survive and thrive.

Through engagement and collaboration with place-based initiatives, businesses and their foundations can help support and drive action on the ground to end commodity-driven deforestation and achieve positive impacts for climate, people, and nature. This area of action is a key part of the Forest Positive Coalition of Action's strategy to create a forest positive future for the consumer goods industry. At COP26, the Coalition launched its ambition to take collective action in production landscapes and help transform them to forest positive, meaning businesses practice deforestation- and conversion-free agricultural production while actively supporting thriving natural environments, resilient forest communities, a carbon-free climate, and responsible business growth.

To achieve this ambition, Coalition members are individually and collectively engaging in production landscapes by supporting jurisdictional- and landscape-level initiatives driving the transformation of agricultural practices to forest positive. In doing so these initiatives are also supporting sustainable forest livelihoods, protecting precious natural resources, and contributing to decarbonisation efforts.

In 2022, Coalition members reported collective investments in dozens of programmes focused on driving forest positive production of palm oil; soy; paper, pulp, and fibre-based packaging (PPP), and beef. Many of these programmes are among the 22 initiatives the Coalition identified as key drivers of forest positive transformation in their respective landscapes based on a set of Ten Principles for Collective Action in Production Landscapes.

Notably, the principles recognise the importance of driving positive outcomes for all life on earth - people, animals, and nature alike. To mark International Day of Forests, the theme of which for 2023 is 'forests and health', here are some of the initiatives Forest Positive Coalition members are supporting and how they are creating landscapes that are ForestPositiveForAll.

Brazil

In Mato Grosso, Jeronimo Martins and Nestle are working with Instituto de Pesquisa Ambiental da Amazonia (the Amazon Environmental Research Institute, or IPAM) to develop a local governance model that enables the implementation of the state's groundbreaking PCI (Protect, Conserve, Include) approach, which sets jurisdictional targets with 2030 goals to increase the sustainable production of commodities, conserve forests and include family farmers and indigenous people.

Similarly, Carrefour, METRO AG, and Nestle are investing in a project led by Conservation International Brazil in partnership with EMBRAPA in the Tocantins state to build the capacity of 53 rural producers and 40 rural extension experts on almost 60,000 hectares for implementing Low-carbon, regenerative soy and beef farming practices. In doing so, the project helps farmers improve their land use practices to help restore and conserve degraded land. In addition, by facilitating workshops with local financial institutions and disseminating information on climate finance opportunities, the project aims to increase producers' financial stability by creating incentives for improved access to credit.

In a new, 11-million USD venture to promote sustainable soy production in the Cerrado, Sainsbury's and Tesco are two of the three main contributors to the Responsible Commodities Facility (RCF) operated by SIM. The RCF will provide financial incentives to farmers that commit to DCF practices, starting with 32 farms in the Cerrado in its first phase. Through participation in the RCF, farmers will conserve approximately 10,000 ha of native vegetation over the next four years.

Click on the image to learn about the RCF.

Indonesia

Mars, Mondelez International, PepsiCo, Unilever, and the Walmart Foundation are supporting the Coalition for Sustainable Livelihoods (CSL) in Aceh and North Sumatra. CSL members work together to find solutions and demonstrate positive impacts for livelihoods and forests by strengthening coordination and communication across stakeholder groups, facilitating shared learning to replicate and scale successful models, and encouraging improved integration of livelihoods, production, and conservation across current initiatives. Through this approach, the CSL aims to enhance collaboration and collective action to achieve common objectives for strengthening smallholder livelihoods, sustainable production, and conservation in Aceh and North Sumatra.

Also in Aceh Singkil, General Mills and Nestle are among a group of companies investing in Musim Mas' Smallholder Hub Programme designed to help include independent smallholders in the critical Leuser ecosystem into Indonesia's sustainable palm oil supply chains. Thus far, the projects have provided capacity-building education on sustainable agricultural practices, financial literacy, and no deforestation, peat or expansion (NDPE) to 75 illage extension officers and who with the assistance of Musim Mas Field staff have then trained 1050 smallholders in Aceh Singkil."

In Siak and Pelalawan districts of Riau, Siak Pelalawan Landscape Program (SPLP) is supported by a coalition of companies including Danone, Neste, PepsiCo, and Unilever. The programme also received a collective investment from the entire Forest Positive Coalition in 2021. The Riau district includes 700,000 hectares of palm oil plantations and the project convenes stakeholders to implement forest positive land use practices and engage villages in participatory community resilience projects.

Also in Siak, Asia Pulp & Paper, Nestle, and Sodexo are working with Winrock International to support the sustainable peatland management of land reallocated to local communities as part of Indonesia's TORA agrarian reform programme (Tanah Obyek Reforma Agraira). The programme will improve the quality of land, help reduce peat fire and land subsidence in a 4,000 hectare environment and its surrounding areas; improve the livelihoods of 4,000 farmers; and help increase food security in local communities by promoting local sustainable wetland-friendly commodities.

Across Indonesia, Nestle, PepsiCo, Procter & Gamble, and Unilever are the Founding Partners, with Lestari Capital, of the Rimba Collective. Starting in Indonesia, Malaysia and Papua New Guinea, the Collective aims to provide US$1 billion to protect or restore 500,000 hectares of forest, supporting 32,000 individuals in forest communities in Southeast Asia over 30 years. In its first year since launch, the Collective has funded over 75,000ha of conservation and restoration projects within its portfolio, whose projects span across 21 areas of critical importance to securing forest protection in deforestation-risk areas. The scale up continues with 200,000ha of projects to be included by the end of 2023. The Collective aims to welcome new Partners in 2023 from across the supply chain to continue momentum and ultimately go above and beyond its initial target of 500,000ha.

Click on the images to learn about the Siak Pelalawan Landscape Programme and the Rimba Collective.

Mexico

In La Encrucijada Biosphere Reserve and Marques de Comillas, Colgate-Palmolive and Grupo Bimbo are taking collective action with Earthworm Foundation in the Chiapas Landscape to protect critical forest and mangrove ecosystems by educating local farmers on sustainable land use management practices. By 2025, the project aims to protect 60,000 hectares of forest and mangroves through voluntary and legal commitments and empower 550 farmers with increased financial literacy and agency as well as 400 households with increased income and food security.

Malaysia

In Sabah, Colgate-Palmolive, Nestle, and Reckitt are working with Earthworm Foundation to support the livelihoods and resilience of local communities, particularly by respecting the rights of workers and children; increase inclusivity for more than 2,000 smallholders in the supply chain and protect migrant workers' rights; and protect local elephant populations.

Also in Sabah, Unilever is collaborating with WWF in the region as well to achieve key objectives including zero loss of natural habitat, zero extinction of wildlife, and halving the negative impacts of production and consumption by taking several actions, such as restoring a 14-kilometre (1,086 Ha) wildlife corridor and 250 Ha habitats and riparian river reintroducing varieties of native plants such as figs, laran, binuang, elephant apple, pulai, durian and many more to improve the degraded habitats and food sources for oranguatans. Procter & Gamble also engages with WWF-Malaysia to support local stakeholders protect their critically endangered Malayan Tiger population and restore ecosystems by first planting an initial 5,000 seedlings of native vegetation in Sungai Yu, Pahang State.

These are just some examples of how businesses and their foundations are engaging with stakeholders from governments, civil society, and local supply chains to drive forest positive transformation from the ground up. As we mark International Day of Forests and its theme around forests and health, we encourage all businesses with a forest footprint to participate in the landscape approach. Healthy forests are home to healthy communities, help create healthy businesses, and are the foundation of a healthy planet - and it's on all of us to keep them thriving.

For more information about how to start the landscape approach, view our Coalition's strategy for engagement in production landscapes here.

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from The Consumer Goods Forum on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: The Consumer Goods Forum

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/consumer-goods-forum

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: The Consumer Goods Forum

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/749845/How-Businesses-Are-Creating-Landscapes-That-Are-ForestPositiveForAll
Boston, Massachusetts--(Newsfile Corp. - April 18, 2023) - Not-for-profit Road Scholar, the world leader in educational travel for older adults, announces a new collection of fully chartered shipboard learning adventures around the world: Road Scholar's "Floating Campus."

"For our Floating Campus collection, we have carefully selected mid-sized ships that are ideal for the regions where they will be sailing," says Road Scholar's Chief Program Officer, Maeve Hartney.

Participants onboard the brand-new Ocean Albatros will learn together in Iceland or Scotland. This expedition vessel with 95 staterooms and suites is one of the most environmentally friendly ships on the sea. Also joining the Floating Campus fleet is American Queen Voyages' American Countess, a paddle wheeler built in 2019 that accommodates 245 guests in 123 staterooms, and MV La Belle des Oceans, a Premium ship from Crosi Europe, which accommodates 130 passengers in 54 cabins and suites. Road Scholars onboard the American Countess will study American music history along the Mississippi River, and La Belle des Oceans passengers will explore the island of Corsica from North to South, learning about art, culture, cuisine, history and more.

"Road Scholar is a nonprofit organization with an educational mission," says Hartney, "and participants can expect to do lots of learning both onboard the ship and during field trips on land."

On each Floating Campus, participants will be joined by two full-time instructors who will share their expertise on topics that will enhance their understanding of the region they're exploring. Road Scholars will enjoy onboard lectures, unique onshore field trips, and access to the instructors throughout the journey for insightful Q&A and discussions.

Road Scholar has been offering shipboard learning adventures, or "Adventures Afloat" since 1998. What makes these programs special is that all passengers onboard the ship will be Road Scholars, and, because the ship is fully chartered, Road Scholar's expert educational program designers have more control over the atmosphere, itinerary, and activities both onboard as well as in port.

"The vision for these programs is to create a college campus for older adults on the water," Hartney says. "The special camaraderie that comes along with traveling amongst a community of other lifelong learners is what makes these Adventures Afloat particularly special."

Participants will be divided into smaller groups for classes and field trips. For each activity, participants will be able to choose between two activity levels, based on their physical ability and level of challenge. Plus, small-group activities like book club sessions will be available for additional opportunities to meet and bond with fellow Road Scholars.

These Floating Campus adventures will embark in spring and fall 2024, and all programs are currently open for enrollments. The programs take place over 11-12 days, and prices start at $5,999 per person in a double cabin. Airfare from many cities is included in the cost of the trip when participants enroll early.

See the Programs:

The Hidden Coasts of Scotland: An Expedition on the Ocean Albatros - May 2024

Discover the Wilds of Iceland Onboard the Ocean Albatros - Sep 2024

Bonjour Corsica! A Voyage on the MV La Belle des Oceans - Oct 2024

Music & the Mississippi: A River Voyage on the American Countess - Sept 2024





Road Scholar Adventure Afloat Participants



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Scotland



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American Countess



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Learn more about Road Scholar's round-the-world learning adventures at www.roadscholar.org/floatingcampus.

Find photos here.

About Road Scholar : Road Scholar is the nation's largest not-for-profit educational travel organization for adults - a true university of the world - offering thousands of programs in nearly 100 countries and 50 states. Road Scholar educational adventures are created by Elderhostel, the world leader in educational travel since 1975. Learn more at press.roadscholar.org.

Contact: Kelsey Knoedler Perri | (617) 521-5301, Kelsey.Perri@roadscholar.org

###

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Evolva Holding SA / Key word(s): AGMEGM

Evolva shareholders approve all motions proposed by the Board at today's Annual General Meeting



18.04.2023 / 17:30 CET/CEST





Press Release (PDF) The shareholders approved, among others: The Reverse stock split of 250:1, followed by a reduction of the par value of the shares to CHF 1.00

Introduction of a capital band of up to +/- 20% of current share capital

Re-election of all board members and election of Stephan Schindler as Chairperson, ensuring continuity in the Board Reinach, 18 April 2023 - Evolva (SIX: EVE), a pioneer in the field of natural molecules and industrial biotech, today held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Basel. Shareholders approved all proposals put forward by the Board of Directors by a large majority. Stephan Schindler, newly elected Chairperson of Evolva, stated: "We thank our shareholders for their ongoing support and trust as expressed by their approval of all suggested agenda items by a large majority. Together with my colleagues on the Board and in close collaboration with our CEO Christian Wichert and his team, we strive to build on the solid foundation which the new leadership team has been able to lay over the past 12 months and to further accelerate the profitable growth of Evolva to deliver long-term value to our shareholders." The shareholders approved the following proposals of the Board: Management Report, the Annual Financial Statements and the Consolidated Financial Statements, each for the financial year 2022.

Compensation Report 2022 in a consultative vote.

Discharge from liability of the members of the Board of Directors and the Executive Management for the fiscal year 2022.

Appropriation of the Annual Result for 2022.

Reverse stock split: the consolidation of the Evolva shares with a reverse split ratio of 250:1. Furthermore, shareholders approved the ordinary capital increase for fractional compensation of CHF 11.45 as needed for the implementation of the reverse stock split.

Reduction of par value: Following the reverse stock split, the par value of all outstanding shares was reduced to CHF 1 through a declarative capital reduction.

Adaptation of Conditional Capital: The conditional capital contained in Article 3a and Article 3c of the Articles of Association was adapted in line with the reverse stock split and the reduction of the par value.

Election of Directors: re-elections of all members of the Board: Mr. Beat In-Albon, Mr. Stephan Schindler, Mr. Christoph Breucker, Mr. Andreas Pfluger and Mr. Andreas Weigelt

Election of Chair: Mr. Stephan Schindler was elected as Chairperson.

Election to the Compensation Committee: the re-election of Christoph Breucker and Andreas Pfluger.

Election of the auditor: the re-election of MAZARS AG, Zurich, for a one-year term.

Election of the independent proxy: the re-election of Dr. Oscar Olano, staehelin olano Advokatur und Notariat, Basel, for a term of one year.

Compensation of the Board of Directors: Approval of the maximum compensation until the AGM 2024.

Compensation of the Executive Management: Approval of the maximum compensation for the period from 1 July 2023 to 30 June 2024.

Introduction of the capital band: Introduction of a capital band of +/- 20% of share capital , replacing the previous authorized capital.

Further amendments to the Articles of Association as a result of revised corporate law. Documentation The Invitation to the AGM 2023 with all proposed agenda items is available on the company's website under this [ Link ]. The minutes of the AGM will be posted on the AGM page within one week [ Link ]. Important dates 24 August 2023 Half-year 2023 results Contact Doris Rudischhauser Head of Investor Relations and Corporate Communications +41 79 410 81 88 dorisr@evolva.com About Evolva Evolva is a Swiss biotech company focused on the research, development and commercialization of ingredients based on nature. We have leading businesses in Flavors and Fragrances, Health Ingredients and Health Protection. Evolva's employees, half of which are women, are dedicated to make the best products that can contribute to wellness, health and sustainability. Find out more at evolva.com and connect with us on LinkedIn . For Evolva multimedia content, please visit: evolva.com/multimedia-library .

Disclaimer

This announcement is not an offer of securities into the United States. The securities referred to herein have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), and may not be offered, pledged, sold, delivered or otherwise transferred, directly or indirectly, in the United States, except pursuant to an exemption from, or transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act. No public offering of securities is being made in the United States. Further, the securities referred to herein have not been and will not be registered under the applicable securities laws of Canada, Australia or Japan or under the applicable securities laws of any other jurisdiction where to do so might constitute a violation of such laws.

This press release contains specific forward-looking statements, e.g. statements including terms like believe, assume, expect or similar expressions. Such forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may result in a substantial divergence between the actual results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and those explicitly or implicitly presumed in these statements. Against the background of these uncertainties readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The company assumes no responsibility to update forward-looking statements or to adapt them to future events or developments.



End of Media Release


NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Caring is in Aflac's DNA, and we are committed to addressing long-standing health inequities, including the cost of care. Our work to help close the health and wealth gap is a reflection of who we are and our belief in always striving to do what's right for our policyholders and our communities.

Over the last year, we've been hard at work demonstrating this commitment by addressing the critical issue of medical debt, and we took it a step further to once again showcase our culture of caring to the world beyond Aflac's walls. It started when we announced our CareGrants initiative, our intent to give away $1 million to families, individuals and organizations throughout 2022, shining a light on the urgent issue of medical debt.

The CareGrants program has two components:

Individual CareGrants are awarded to help families and individuals focus on their physical recovery instead of financial stressors. Community CareGrants are delivered to organizations that improve the medical outcomes for individuals in their local areas, prioritizing regions identified as high-need by the Aflac Care Index.

As we continue the CareGrants initiative into 2023, we also reflect on the impact these funds have had for those who receive them.

Now through April 30, Aflac is hosting its next individual CareGrants contest for non-policyholders nationwide to share their medical debt stories for the chance to win $10,000.*

Becoming a part of their stories

Our vision is to create a world where people are better prepared for unexpected health expenses - it's our "why." Our Individual CareGrant program is the demonstration of how we care for the underserved and underinsured, and it helps illustrate our collective mission to care on purpose.

Throughthe CareGrant programs, we've seen up close how these awards truly help change lives, like that of Lashandra Covington from Columbus, Georgia, who battled breast cancer twice during her 20s and was later diagnosed with colon cancer in 2021. Lashandra needed money to pay for a vital procedure, which our CareGrant helped fund.

Another powerful story came from John Shadock in Riverview, Florida, who was diagnosed with glioblastoma at age 35. John and his wife Allison were married only a short time before he received his diagnosis that changed the young couple's life instantly. Allison, John and their two dogs had to relocate to be closer to John's doctor, which meant leaving jobs and undergoing extremely expensive cancer treatments, MRIs and never-ending travel expenses.

Shortly after, John had a fall that forced them to seek around-the-clock care and lean even more on family and friends for support. The $5,000 grant they received from Aflac helped get the family back on their feet so they could focus more on John's care, not finances.

In the communities

In January 2022, we announced the Aflac Care Index, a nationwide study that examined Americans' awareness of and exposure to debt resulting from medical bills not covered by insurance. To support the highly vulnerable regions identified in the Care Index, Aflac distributed $500,000 in Community CareGrants throughout 2022 to select organizations that improve medical outcomes for individuals in these regions. In each community where we gave a grant - including Harlan, Kentucky; Lexington, Virginia; Orlando, Florida; Houston, Texas and Columbia, South Carolina - we installed an Aflac Park Bench to serve as a physical manifestation of the company's commitments to education, support and advocacy to help close the gap.

Community CareGrants help organizations address key health issues unique to their communities. For example, Libby's Legacy Breast Cancer Foundation in Orlando is using their CareGrant to increase access to breast health services such as diagnostic testing and biopsies for underserved and underinsured individuals.

Our first Community CareGrant and Aflac Park Bench installation was in Harlan, Kentucky, one of the most at-risk states, according to the Aflac Care Index. Within the state, Harlan County stood out for its high rate of cardiac conditions. Aflac contributed $100,000 to Harlan's Appalachian Regional Hospital to help create better health and wealth equity among local residents. With Aflac's $100,000 CareGrant, Harlan ARH Hospital is reducing the burden of cardiovascular disease in Harlan County by increasing residents' access to disease education and providing access to AEDs.

More to come in 2023

As we extend our CareGrants program into 2023, non-policyholders nationwide can share their medical debt stories for the chance to win $10,000 by visiting www.aflac.com/aflac-cares/caregrant.aspx. The contest runs through April 30. Be sure to follow @Aflac and @AflacDuck across social platforms and stay tuned for the 2023 CareGrant winners.

THE AFLAC CAREGRANTS CONTEST: NO PURCHASE OR PAYMENT NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE CHANCES OF WINNING. Open to legal residents of the 50 U.S./D.C., age 18+ (19+ in AL and NE, 21+ in MS), who as of the date listed in the applicable Appendix, are not insured under any policy issued or administered by Aflac, Inc. or its subsidiaries or affiliates (collectively "Aflac"), and who incurred a medical debt before the date listed in the applicable Appendix. Void where prohibited. Each Contest starts at the time and date listed in the applicable Appendix and ends at the time and date listed in the applicable Appendix (the "Contest Period"). Total ARV of all prizes: $200,000. Subject to full Official CareGrant Individual Contest Rules available here. Sponsor: American Family Life Assurance Company of Columbus (Aflac), 1932 Wynnton Rd., Columbus, GA 31999.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a solicitation for insurance. Information is not intended to provide tax, legal, health or financial advice for any person or for any specific situation. Employers, employees and other individuals should contact their own advisers about their situations.

Aflac | Aflac New York | WWHQ | 1932 Wynnton Road | Columbus, GA 31999

Z2300411

John and Allison Shadock receive their CareGrant during a digital exchange with Aflac U.S. President Virgil Miller.

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Aflac Incorporated on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Aflac Incorporated

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NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Southern Company:

Originally published by Southern Company

Several Southern Company system attorneys have been selected to participate in two prestigious programs with the Leadership Council for Legal Diversity (LCLD).

Nitin Datt, chief counsel at Southern Company Gas, and Julia Yun, senior counsel at Southern Company Services, will participate in the LCLD Fellows program. Jamillah Pritchett, contract agent III at Southern Company Services, and Danielle Hines, senior specialist in real estate at Alabama Power Company, will participate in the LCLD Pathfinders program.

The year-long Fellows program is designed to build relationships and leadership skills in experienced high-potential attorneys from diverse backgrounds, while the Pathfinders program focuses on building these skills in early-career attorneys from diverse backgrounds.

"Nitin, Julia, Jamillah and Danielle have demonstrated strong leadership skills and have shown a commitment to Southern Company's diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives. Through these programs, they will have the opportunity to further refine these skills, build relationships and expand their network," said Jim Kerr, Southern Company executive vice president and chief legal officer.

LCLD is a non-profit organization whose goal is building a more equitable and diverse legal profession and is comprised of more than 400 members, including corporations and law firms. The members participate in programs that prepare diverse talent for leadership positions. Southern Company has been an active participant and sponsor of LCLD for the past seven years.

"LCLD is an excellent organization and their programs have helped build strong leaders at Southern and within the community. I am excited to have more of our talented people participate in their programs," Kerr said.

Once the attorneys complete the program, they will continue their professional development by attending pro bono, networking and continuing legal education events organized by the program's active alumni.

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Southern Company on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Southern Company

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/southern-company

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: Southern Company

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CHICAGO, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The mice model industry is expected to experience significant growth in the near future as researchers and pharmaceutical companies continue to use mice to study human diseases and develop new treatments. With the emergence of advanced genetic engineering techniques, researchers will be able to create mice models that more accurately replicate human diseases. In addition, the use of CRISPR technology is expected to increase the efficiency and accuracy of mice model research. This could lead to the development of more effective treatments for human diseases. Furthermore, the increasing demand for mouse models for clinical trials and drug discovery is expected to further drive the growth of the mice model industry.





Mice Model Market in terms of revenue was estimated to be worth $1.4 billion in 2023 and is poised to reach $2.7 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 13.9% from 2023 to 2028 according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets. Some of the prominent factors driving the growth of this market are advancements in mouse models, and the rising number of clinical trials are boosting the growth of the market. However, the presence of alternative animal research models recent ban on animal models from U.S.FDA can hamper the market growth.

Download an Illustrative overview: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=1308

Browse in-depth TOC on "Mice Model Market"

228 - Tables

37 - Figures

223 - Pages

Mice Model Market Scope:

Report Coverage Details Market Revenue in 2023 $1.4 billion Estimated Value by 2028 $2.7 billion Growth Rate Poised to grow at a CAGR of 13.9% Market Size Available for 2021-2028 Forecast Period 2023-2028 Forecast Units Value (USD Billion) Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends Segments Covered Model Types & Services, Technologies, Application, End User, and Region Geographies Covered North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and MEA Report Highlights Updated financial information / product portfolio of players Key Market Opportunities Utilization of CRISPR in biomedical research Key Market Drivers Rising investments in mouse model-based research

Model type segment accounted for the largest share of the mice model market

Among the model type & services, the mice model market is segmented into model type and services. In 2022, the model type segment accounted for the largest share of the mice model market. Growth in this market segment can be attributed to availability of various types of mice models due to advancements in biotechnology.

Cryopreservation services is the fastest-growing application segment of the mice model market

Based on application, the mice model market is segmented into breeding services, cryopreservation services, rederivation services, quarantine services and other services. In 2022, the cryopreservation services segment accounted for the fastest-growing share of the application segment of mice model market. Market growth can largely be attributed to the need of preservation of novel mice models.

Asia Pacific: The fastest-growing region in the mice model market.

The Asia Pacific mice model market is projected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period, mainly due to the rising focus on R&D activities, increasing adoption of mice models, and technological development in R&D activites. Moreover, growth in regenerative medicine and biomedical & medical research in Japan are some of the key factors contributing to market growth in the region. The Asian market has also garnered significant attention from global players due to the comparatively less-stringent regulations in Asian countries as compared to those in Europe and the US, as well as the region's low-cost advantage-both factors have driven outsourcing to Asia.

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Mice Model Market Dynamics:

Drivers:

Rising investments in mouse model-based research Increasing demand for mouse-based clinical trials (MCTs) Growing preference for personalized medicine

Restraints:

Introduction of 3D-printed mouse models

Opportunities:

Utilization of CRISPR in biomedical research

Challenges:

Development of alternative animal testing methods

Key Market Players:

The market for mice model is highly consolidated, with key players strategizing to capture the market. Prominent players in the mice model market are Charles River Laboratories (US), The Jackson Laboratory (US), Inotiv (US), genOway (France), Taconic Biosciences, Inc. (US), Janvier Labs (France), Harbour BioMed (China), Trans Genic Inc. (Japan), Ingenious Targeting Laboratory (US), PolyGene AG (Switzerland), Aragen Life Sciences Ltd. (India), Cyagen Biosciences (US), Crown Biosciences (US), TransCure bioServices (France), Ozgene Pty. Ltd. (Australia), The Andersons, Inc. (US), Allentown, LLC (US), Innovive (US), Lab Products, LLC. (US), Crescendo Biologics Limited (UK), ImmunoGenes (Hungary), Lexicon Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (US), Horizon Discovery Ltd (UK). Marshall BioResources (US), and Applied StemCell Inc. (US).

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Recent Developments:

In April 2019 , Charles River acquired Citoxlab to strengthen its portfolio & geographic footprint, enhancing the ability to partner with clients across the drug discovery and development continuum. This acquisition helped Charles River strengthen its position in regulated safety assessment services, non-regulated discovery services, animal research models, and medical device testing.

, acquired Citoxlab to strengthen its portfolio & geographic footprint, enhancing the ability to partner with clients across the drug discovery and development continuum. This acquisition helped strengthen its position in regulated safety assessment services, non-regulated discovery services, animal research models, and medical device testing. In June 2020 , Charles River Laboratories established two new offices in China and Singapore , combined with its existing locations in Japan , Taiwan , India , and South Korea . These offices support sales and project management for biologics research.

, Charles River Laboratories established two new offices in and , combined with its existing locations in , , , and . These offices support sales and project management for biologics research. In January 2022 , Inotiv completed the acquisition of Orient BioResource Center, Inc. from Orient Bio, Inc., a preclinical CRO and animal model supplier based in Seongnam, South Korea . Orient BioResource Center is a primate quarantine & holding facility located near Alice, Texas .

Mice Model Market Advantages:

High-throughput Screening: Mice models provide an efficient platform for high-throughput screening of compounds to identify those with pharmacological activity. This allows for rapid identification of promising compounds that can be further tested in preclinical studies.

Improved Accuracy: Mice models are more accurate than other animal models because they can be genetically modified to have mutations that are seen in humans. This allows for more precise testing of drug efficacy and safety compared to other animal models.

Reduced Cost: Mice models are much cheaper than other large animal models. This allows for more cost-effective drug development and testing.

Reduced Timeframe: Mice models provide faster results than other animal models. This reduces the time required to develop drugs and get them to market.

Reduced Animal Use: Mice models reduce the number of animals needed for drug testing, reducing the use of animals in research.

Mice Model Market - Report Highlights:

The value chain analysis, ecosystem analysis, and regulatory scenario are added in the market overview chapter.

The new edition of the report provides updated market breakdown with detailed analysis on model types & services, technology, application and end user.

The new edition of the report provides updated financial information till 2022 (depending on availability) for each listed company in a graphical representation. This would help in the easy analysis of the present status of profiled companies in terms of their financial strength, profitability, key revenue-generating region/country, and business segment focus in terms of the highest revenue-generating segment.

Recent developments are helpful to understand market trends and growth strategies adopted by players in the market.

Tracking product portfolios of prominent market players helps to analyze the major types in the mice model market. The new edition of the report provides an updated product portfolio of the companies profiled in the report.

Market evaluation framework, market share analysis and competitive leadership mapping have been added in competitive landscape chapter of the report.

The competitive leadership mapping has been updated considering recent developments in the company evaluation matrix.

Related Reports:

CRO Services Market - Global Forecasts to 2028

In Vitro Toxicology Testing Market - Global Forecasts to 2027

Patient Derived Xenograft Models Market - Global Forecasts to 2026

In Vivo Toxicology Market - Global Forecasts to 2025

Life Science Instrumentation Market - Global Forecasts to 2025

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The B2B economy is witnessing the emergence of $25 trillion of new revenue streams that are substituting existing revenue streams in this decade alone. We work with clients on growth programs, helping them monetize this $25 trillion opportunity through our service lines - TAM Expansion, Go-to-Market (GTM) Strategy to Execution, Market Share Gain, Account Enablement, and Thought Leadership Marketing.

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To find out more, visit www.MarketsandMarkets.com or follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook.

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MarketsandMarkets INC.

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Environmental firms team up to discuss pending regulations, remediation strategies, risk management, and more.

IRVINE, CA / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Environmental experts from Cameron-Cole and FirstCarbon Solutions (FCS), both ADEC Innovations companies, will share first-hand experience regarding per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) at the Association of Environmental Professionals (AEP) CA State Conference April 23-26 in Lake Tahoe, CA.

PFAS-often called "forever chemicals" due to how slowly they break down over time-are increasingly found in the air, soil, and water. The most recent studies on human health effects have led the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to propose PFAS standards for drinking water that are especially stringent at the parts per trillion level.

Cameron-Cole and FCS's panel discussion, PFAS: How to Navigate this 21st Century Challenge, will be held Tuesday, April 25 and will discuss the history and future of PFAS, including new regulatory standards and associated liability under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA). Additionally, panelists will discuss the risk management processes, remediation strategies, and potential funding sources to support organizations facing PFAS risk and regulatory challenges.

"With the latest EPA ruling, regulators will soon require greater PFAS testing frequency in drinking water, wastewater, stormwater, soil, and groundwater sites," says Liza Debies, FCS Environmental Services Project Manager and panel moderator. "It's critical to understand this rapidly evolving landscape, and this panel will provide resources intended to help our audience to make better-informed decisions."

Joining Debies on the panel will be Mike Stephenson, Principal Scientist and Western Regional Manager for Cameron-Cole; Rob Fagerness, Senior Engineer with FCS; and Brian Myller, President and Chief Hydrogeologist of ADEC Innovations Professional Services.

###

About FirstCarbon Solutions

With more than 39 years of experience, FirstCarbon Solutions (FCS), an ADEC Innovation, is a leading provider of environmental, sustainability, and compliance solutions, delivering fully integrated consulting, software, and data management services. With six offices throughout Northern and Southern California and 12 across the US, FCS provides excellent localized service, accurate research, thoughtful recommendations, and innovative solutions for the mutual success of their clients and their practice, assisting cities and counties in achieving the delicate balance between development and environmental protection.

About Cameron-Cole

Cameron-Cole, an ADEC Innovation, is a U.S.-based consulting firm that brings decades of successful experience as a full-service environmental compliance, assessment, remediation, and greenhouse gas management services consultant. Established in 2001 as an independent environmental services firm, Cameron-Cole is committed to conducting its business responsibilities consistent with the highest levels of performance expected by clients, employees, and shareholders. Cameron-Cole is committed to delivering services and solutions that are a product of collaboration between appropriate resources and expertise within the firm, including solutions that recognize the social, economic, and environmental implications of each project.

About ADEC Innovations

ADEC Innovations drives organizational value and impact by designing, developing, and delivering services and solutions in sustainable development. Since 1996, ADEC Innovations has advanced sustainable practices around the world and helped organizations grow and operate responsibly. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland with a network of 4,000 employees and regional operations across 20 countries, ADEC Innovations' broad portfolio of businesses offers solutions that span Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Professional Services; Workforce Solutions, including Healthcare and Knowledge Management Services; and Enterprise Technology Data and Software as a Service (DAAS/SAAS). ADEC Innovations works with governments, coalitions, and businesses to help organizations meet their evolving needs and drive performance in a world where sustainability matters.

Please direct all media inquiries to: media@adec-innovations.com

Contact Information

Jacki Fricke

Associate Director of Marketing

media@adec-innovations.com



SOURCE: ADEC Innovations

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/748234/FCS-and-Cameron-Cole-Share-PFAS-Expertise-at-AEP-CA-State-Conference
SALT LAKE CITY, UT / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Arvana Inc. ("OTC:AVNI") today issued a clarification to its prior press release dated April 12, 2023, regarding the forward-split of its common stock.

The April 12, 2023, press release generated some confusion over the record date for those stockholders entitled to the additional forward-split shares, and the effective date for the anticipated delivery of the forward-split shares. Arvana wishes to clarify and confirm the details of the forward-split.

The forward-split will take effect following the close of business on April 18, 2023, on a ratio of three (3) new shares of Arvana common stock for each (1) share of common stock outstanding, that will be deliverable on or about April 19, 2023, to stockholders of record on March 31, 2023.

The total number of outstanding shares of common stock will increase from 35,948,518 shares to 107,845,554 shares after the forward-split takes effect with no change in the par value of Arvana's common stock or in the number of its authorized shares.

For additional information concerning the forward split, please refer to Arvana's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission or contact us directly.

Arvana Inc.

Arvana ("OTC:AVNI") is a public company registered under the Securities & Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, that is quoted on the OTC Pink Sheets Current Information Alternative Reporting platform. We operate a fishing charter business through our wholly owned subsidiary Down2Fish Charters, LLC.

Down2Fish offers a range of curated maritime adventures that include inshore, offshore, and custom charters for fishing enthusiasts, nature lovers, and sea bound adventurers. Our business is operated from a private dock in Palmetto, Florida to service the Greater Tampa Bay area including St Petersburg, Venice, Sarasota, and Clearwater.

Forward-Looking Statements

Several statements contained in this press release are forward-looking statements of future expectations based on currently available information that are subject to risks and uncertainties including general economic conditions, changes in capital markets, regulatory legislation, and other circumstances that may cause actual results to be materially different from those expectations. Arvana does not make any representation or warranty, express or implied, as to the accuracy, completeness, or status of such statements so it will not be liable for any decision made or action taken in conjunction with the information and/or statements contained in this press release. Arvana encourages the public to read the information provided in conjunction with its recent filings on Schedule 14c, Form 8-K, Form 10-Q and Form 10-K, which may be viewed at www.sec.gov .

Contact:

Ruairidh Campbell, Chief Executive Officer

Phone: +1 801-232-7395

Email: ruairidhcampbell@msn.com

Website: https://arvana.us

SOURCE: Arvana Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/749876/Arvana-Inc-Issues-Clarification-and-Confirms-Details-of-Forward-Split
Paris, 18 April 2023 - PT PLN (Persero) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Hydrogen de France SA (HDF Energy) to develop hydrogen technology in Indonesia. This international collaboration is aimed at reducing carbon emissions of electricity sector to contribute towards the 2060 Net Zero Emission Target.

The MOU between PLN and HDF aims at building mutual cooperation in developing hydrogen business, particularly on the use of hydrogen in power sector. During his speech, Indonesian Ambassador highlighted this cooperation between PLN and HDF as a way of addressing future increasing energy demand with renewable energy and innovative investment. French Minister of Foreign Trade Olivier Becht asserted France's commitment to support Indonesia's energy transition and expressed his strong support for HDF and PLN's collaboration.

PLN's President Director, Mr Darmawan Prasodjo, stated that both parties have mutual commitments in ensuring clean, reliable and affordable energy. Through this collaboration, PLN intends to accelerate hydrogen technology development, while reduces dependency on fossil energy.

Darmawan added that PLN acknowledges the importance of reducing carbon emissions in power sector. Therefore, PLN is proud to be part of global community to find ways in providing greener energy solutions for future generations.

"This cooperation marks new era to materialize the development renewable energy baseload 24 hours, coming from multiple resources including hydrogen. We also expect that PLN and HDF collaboration could elevate billateral cooperation between Indonesia and France", said Darmawan.

HDF is a France-based company who is a pioneer in hydrogen to power solution. HDF develops and operates high capacity infrastructures to supply energy demand by utilizing renewable energy.

This cooperation will allow to accelerate the development of multi-megawatt power plants producing stable, continuous and green power to the grids, 24/7, called Renewstable. It combines an intermittent renewable source (solar or wind) and mass and long-term storage of energy through a hydrogen chain. Renewstable is the green alternative to a classic diesel fuel power plant as it only use solar or wind energy and water to produce stable electricity thus avoiding greenhouse emissions and noise. Renewstable's unique feature is its ability to serve baseload power which is powered thoroughly by renewable energy. In addition, HDF's team is composed of experts in hydrogen infrastructures with 10 years of hands-on technical experience throughout the complete hydrogen value chain. They will be able to support PLN to improve its capacity and skills in the hydrogen field.

Mathieu Geze, HDF's Director for Asia and President Director of PT HDF Energy Indonesia, declared: "We are proud to partner and join forces with PT PLN (Persero) to accelerate the development of our hydrogen power plant projects in Indonesia. Indonesia is facing unique constraints due to its archipelago context. Our Renewstable plants could assist Indonesia to decarbonize its grids while accompanying the Government's agenda to support Eastern Indonesia's development. Our projects pipeline will put Indonesia at the forefront of green hydrogen projects in Asia."

Darmawan Prasodjo, President Director of PLN (Persero) stated: "This is not only a signing of agreement, not only collaboration in strategy, innovation and technology. This is a collaboration that is going to be translated into effective operational outcomes. This is the cooperation that PLN needs to contribute in addressing global challenges."

The MOU was signed by PLN's Director of Corporate Planning, Hartanto Wibowo, and the CEO of HDF Energy, Damien Havard. The MOU signing was witnessed by the Indonesian Ambassador to France, Monaco, Andorra and UNESCO, Muhammad Oemar; France's Minister of Foreign Trade, Olivier Becht; and the President Director of PT PLN (Persero), Darmawan Prasodjo. Several members of PT PLN board were present Evy Haryadi, Director of Transmition and System Planning, Sinthya Roesly, Director of Finance, Alois Wisnuhardana Corporate Secretary, Charles Sitorus, board of commissioner.

In addition to his President, HDF Energy was represented by Jean-Noel de Charentenay, Deputy CEO, Mathieu GEZE, Director of Asia.

ABOUT PT PLN (Persero)

PT PLN Persero is Indonesia's electricity state-owned enterprise who continues in committing and innovating to carry out the important missions in electricfying and supporting the country's development. With the vision to be a leading power company in Southeast Asia, PLN becomes customers' number one option for delivering energy solution. PLN has an agenda of transforming towards Green, Lean, Innovative and Customer Focused to deliver electricity for a better life. PLN can be reached out through PLN Mobile that is available in PlayStore or AppStore

ABOUT HDF ENERGY

HDF Energy is a global pioneer in high-power hydrogen power plants. The Company designs and develops power plants that generate non-intermittent, non-polluting renewable energy, day and night. In addition, HDF Energy organises the financing, construction and operation of these power plants through SPVs.

HDF is the designer of Renewstable, its flagship model of multi-megawatt power plants producing firm power from an intermittent renewable energy source (wind or solar) and massive energy storage in the form of green hydrogen generated on site.

HDF Energy is also an industrial company which will mass produce, from 2024, the most strategic component of its power plants - high-power fuel cells - in its plant near Bordeaux. Already a major supplier of electricity for energy grids, this industrial activity will also allow HDF Energy to serve the heavy marine and rail mobility markets. Alongside its strategic partners, the Company develops projects involving hydrogen-powered freight locomotives and large vessel propulsion and auxiliary power systems.

The Company operates on five continents and is developing a business portfolio currently worth over 5 billion.

HDF Energy is listed in Euronext Compartment B.

More information, visit: www.hdf-energy.com

Contact

PT PLN (Persero)

Gregorius Adi Trianto

Executive Vice President

Corporate Communication & TJSL PLN

Phone: +6221 7261122

Fax: +6221 7227059

gregorius_adi@pln.co.id

HDF Energy

Director Asia - HDF Energy Investors Relations Press Relations Mathieu GEZE

+62 812 8952 9057

asia@hdf-energy.com Margaux ROUILLARD

+ 33 (0)1 53 67 36 32

hdf-energy@actus.fr Serena BONI

+33 (0)4 72 18 04 92

sboni@actus.fr

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JACKSONVILLE, FL / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Lifted Made, a leading hemp and psychoactive products maker ("Lifted") and a wholly-owned subsidiary of LFTD Partners Inc. (OTCQB:LIFD), has won first place at the High Times Hemp Cup: People's Choice Edition 2023 in the "Legal Psychoactive Vape Pens" category for its new 3 mL Urb Watermelon Mojito Live Resin THC Blend Vape, and second place in the "Legal Psychoactive Flower" category for its Urb Watermelon Mojito Caviar Flower.

Nick Warrender, founder and CEO of Lifted Made, and the Vice Chairman and COO of LFTD Partners Inc., said "Placing first in the psychoactive vape pens category at the prestigious High Times Hemp Cup: People's Choice Edition 2023 is a testament to the unmatched quality and consumer excitement surrounding Urb's beautiful new flavored 3 mL vapes. We appreciate the recognition from High Times!"

About LFTD Partners Inc.

Publicly-traded LFTD Partners Inc., Jacksonville, FL (OTCQB:LIFD) is the parent corporation of Lifted Made, Kenosha, WI (www.urb.shop), which manufactures and sells hemp-derived and psychoactive products under its award-winning Urb and Silly Shruum brands. LFTD Partners Inc. also owns 4.99% of CBD-infused beverage and products maker Ablis (www.AblisBev.com), and of craft distillers Bendistillery Inc. d/b/a Crater Lake Spirits (www.CraterLakeSpirits.com) and Bend Spirits, Inc. (www.Bendistillery.com) all located in Bend, OR. Please read LIFD's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission which fully describe our business and the Risk Factors associated therewith. Stay updated with our company news and product launches by subscribing to our newsletters at www.LFTDPartners.com and www.urb.shop.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this document are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such information includes the operations, financing, growth, performance, products, plans and expectations of LFTD Partners Inc. and Lifted Made. Such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause or contribute to these companies' actual operations, financing, growth, performance, products, plans or results of these companies differing materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements as a result of certain other factors, including the risk factors set forth in LFTD Partners Inc.'s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell common stock or any other securities of LFTD Partners Inc.

CONTACT:

Nicholas S. Warrender, founder and CEO of Lifted Made, and Vice Chairman and COO of LFTD Partners Inc.

(224) 577-8148

CEO@urb.shop

www.urb.shop

SOURCE: LFTD Partners Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/749883/Lifted-Made-Wins-First-Place-Vape-at-High-Times-Hemp-Cup
ProofNoMore - The premier marketplace for non-alcoholic craft beverages

NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / ProofNoMore, a wholesaler and online retailer of non-alcoholic (NA) craft beverages, is preparing to showcase its B2B distribution portfolio at the 2023 Bar Convent Brooklyn (BCB) event on June 14th-15th at Industry City (BOOTH 8A-610).

BCB, an annual trade show and conference for the bar and beverage industry, is an optimum opportunity for ProofNoMore to exhibit its wholesale portfolio to members of the beverage industry, including bartenders, bar owners, beverage directors, beverage manufacturers, distributors, and industry experts.

ProofNoMore will present and exhibit their core wholesale range of craft non-alcoholic beers, such as Sober Carpenter from Canada, Woodland Farms from Maine, and Atmos Brewing from Idaho. From their NA-Wine portfolio, attendees will be able to try Buonafide from Italy and the Leitz range of de-alcoholized wines from Germany. Their Zero-Proof spirit portfolio will also be in full display with Feragaia from Scotland and Seir Hill from the Connecticut. Other functional beverages such as Mockly Mocktails from Louisiana, Clever Mocktails from Canada, Goldies Vitamin infused sparkling water, and WOW's non-alcoholic mixers are also available for sampling.

The ProofNoMore team aims to enlighten trade professionals about the positive impact of including adult non-alcoholic (NA) options in their offerings. These options are not detrimental to alcohol sales, but rather contribute to a customer's beverage tab by providing higher profit margins compared to soda or water. They cater to those who are moderating or abstaining from alcohol but still desire the social experience of "drinking" with friends or co-workers. Additionally, the growing trend of "flex-drinking" - where individuals consume both alcoholic and NA options during the same occasion as part of the overall healthy and wellness movement - further underscores the business benefits of offering NA options.

Lars Dahlhaus, co-founder of ProofNoMore, reveals that as a privately owned and self-funded company, they are actively pursuing an aggressive growth trajectory. Participating in BCB 2023 has the potential to further support their scaling efforts. Dahlhaus states, "Our aim is to achieve nationwide B2B distribution by 2024 through the establishment of multiple regional hubs." He further adds, "As the largest NA beer marketplace in the US, we anticipate tripling our sales by the end of 2023."

As co-founder Ed Carino, proudly shares, "We leverage our 30+ years of experience in beverage distribution and brand building to support our supplier partners, helping them thrive with ProofNoMore and beyond. Non-alcoholic craft beverages have become a permanent fixture in the market, as people seek meaningful and delicious drink options without alcohol."

ProofNoMore, a New York City-based importer and wholesale distributor, was founded in 2021 with a mission to offer customers a better-for-you drinking experience that goes beyond alcohol. With a leadership team committed to fostering inclusivity in the beverage industry, ProofNoMore aims to create an environment where non-alcoholic drinks can thrive. By participating in BCB 2023, ProofNoMore seeks to appeal to customers of all backgrounds, regardless of their drinking habits, taste preferences, or reasons for reducing alcohol consumption.

About ProofNoMore

ProofNoMore.com and its sister ecommerce site, CBDrnk.com, are part of Liquid Ecommerce LLC, collectively serving as online marketplaces offering a wide variety of non-alcoholic beverages. These include non-alcoholic beer, NA-wine, zero-proof spirits, mocktails, mixers, and functional drinks like CBD Seltzers and Sparkling Kava. With products available for both retail and wholesale, the company promotes its brands with a focus on fostering mindful drinking as a part of a healthy lifestyle.

For more information, please visit https://www.proofnomore.com and https://www.cbdrnk.com

For information on Bar Convent Brooklyn, visit: www.barconventbrooklyn.com

Contact:

Ed Carino

ed@proofnomore.com

(347) 292-1471

SOURCE: ProofNoMore

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/749909/ProofNoMore-To-Exhibit-at-Bar-Convent-Brooklyn-2023
Adrian, Michigan--(Newsfile Corp. - April 18, 2023) - Heads Cannabis, a customer-focused medical and recreational dispensary with three locations across Michigan, is excited to release the 420 festivity details for their flagship store in Adrian.

Extending their hours to accommodate those who may be working or in the industry themselves, Heads Cannabis dispensary in Adrian will begin celebrations at 8:00 AM on Thursday, April 20th.

Billed as "A Vendor Festival," the event will take place both inside and outside. Heads' house brand, Heavyweight Brands, as well as a live DJ and a half-dozen other virtual cannabis vendors featuring their products will be in attendance. Heavyweight Heads will have a large tent onsite staffed with brand ambassadors excited to chat with the public.

Full details for Heads Cannabis' 420 event in Adrian, MI, are below:

Heads Adrian Medical & Recreational Marijuana Dispensary

Location: 913 S Main St, Adrian, MI 49221

Phone: (517) 662-4197

Date: April 20th, 2023

Event Hours: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

"We are so excited to share this great event with our community. We are planning to open an hour early on the day of the 420 Vendor Festival to accommodate those who work during the day and typically miss out on some of these great specials and events. We want to ensure everyone has an opportunity to join in on the 420 festivities," says Jen Yu of Heads Cannabis.

Customers can also expect to see a raffle as well as specials throughout the week of April 20th, including:

April 17th - 20th:

Buy 2, Get 1 Free on Goldkine products

April 17th - 23th:

Buy 1, Get 1 Half Off on All Glass and Accessories

April 19th - 22nd:

30% Off all KIVA products

April 20th:

Buy 1, Get 1 Free on Chronicseur Farms products

Free Pre-roll with any purchase

First 100 customers get a Free ounce of flower

April 22nd:

Buy 1, Get 1 Free on Treetown products

About Heads Cannabis

Heads Cannabis' goal has always been and will always be to provide customers with the best retail dispensary experience possible. Their friendly and knowledgeable budtenders help visitors with any of their cannabis questions or needs. Heads' cannabis dispensaries keep their inventory stocked full of fresh items, ensuring they always have the right products for seasoned "Cannabis Heads" and first-timers alike.

Media Contact:

Jen Yu, jen@heads.net

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/162887
2 million new cash secured

Termination of the convertible bond agreement by TME Pharma

Lock-up of all new shares issued and all outstanding convertible bonds for a period of 6 months to align investors and support company through next clinical results

Regulatory News:

TME Pharma N.V. (Euronext Growth Paris: ALTME) (Paris:ALTME),a biotechnology company focused on developing novel therapies for treatment of cancer by targeting the tumor microenvironment (TME), announced today the successful closing of a financing of 2 million. The financing extends the company's cash runway into December 2023, sufficient to reach its next major inflection points and to allow further advance its ongoing GLORIA Phase 1/2 clinical study of NOX-A12 combination therapies in newly diagnosed brain cancer (glioblastoma) patients.

The transaction involves: 1) a 1 million equity financing at the price of 1.04161 per share from a group of new investors, 2) a drawdown of 1.08 million under agreement with Atlas Special Opportunities, LLC (ASO) by issuing 1,100 convertible bonds, 3) the conversion of 2 million (~48%) outstanding convertible bonds held by ASO into newly issued shares at a conversion price of 1.04161 per share, 4) a soft lock-up of all shares issued through this transaction for a 6-month period, and 5) a lock-up of all remaining convertible bonds for a 6-month period.

Moreover, the company will not draw any further tranches from the ASO convertible bond vehicle and the agreement with ASO is terminated other than with regard to already issued convertible bonds. TME Pharma is also studying options to be able to repurchase the remaining convertible bonds, as allowed under the agreement, to prevent conversion to shares.

"We are very pleased to announce the details of a successful transaction concluded with a group of new investors and Atlas, which extends our cash runway into December 2023," said Aram Mangasarian, CEO of TME Pharma. "This innovatively-structured transaction represents the first step in the commitment we made to our shareholders to end reliance of the company on convertible bond financing. By removing the pressure of convertible bonds, we hope our exceptional therapeutic assets will be able to reach a valuation on the market that reflects their therapeutic potential. We estimate the addressable market for first line glioblastoma to be $2.5 billion per year. We would like to thank Atlas for their support in facilitating the transaction and welcome our new investors who showed their confidence in TME Pharma through this latest financing. This will enable us to maintain our focus on our goal of developing novel therapies for cancer patients and bringing them to market."

The convertible bond agreement with ASO was initially entered on April 23, 2020, and amended on October 14, 2020, December 29, 2021, May 19, 2022, and April 17, 2023.

The characteristics, terms and conditions and dilution resulting from the transaction may be found in the Annex to this press release.

About TME Pharma

TME Pharma is a clinical-stage company focused on developing novel therapies for treatment of the most aggressive cancers. The company's oncology-focused pipeline is designed to act on the tumor microenvironment (TME) and the cancer immunity cycle by breaking tumor protection barriers against the immune system and blocking tumor repair. By neutralizing chemokines in the TME, TME Pharma's approach works in combination with other forms of treatment to weaken tumor defenses and enable greater therapeutic impact. In the GLORIA clinical trial, TME Pharma is studying its lead drug candidate NOX-A12 in newly diagnosed brain cancer patients who will not benefit clinically from standard chemotherapy. TME Pharma has delivered top-line data from the NOX-A12 three dose-escalation cohorts combined with radiotherapy of the GLORIA clinical trial, observing consistent tumor reductions and objective tumor responses. Additionally, GLORIA expansion arms evaluate safety and efficacy of NOX-A12 in other combinations where the interim results from the triple combination of NOX-A12, radiotherapy and bevacizumab suggest even deeper and more durable responses. NOX-A12 in combination with radiotherapy has received orphan drug designation for glioblastoma in the United States and glioma in Europe. TME Pharma has delivered final top-line data with encouraging overall survival and safety profile from its NOX-A12 combination trial with Keytruda in metastatic colorectal and pancreatic cancer patients, which was published in the Journal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer in October 2021. The company has entered in its second collaboration with MSD/Merck for its Phase 2 study, OPTIMUS, to further evaluate safety and efficacy of NOX-A12 in combination with Merck's Keytruda and two different chemotherapy regimens as second-line therapy in patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer. The design of the trial has been approved in France and Spain and is in discussion with regulatory authorities in the United States. The company's second clinical-stage drug candidate, NOX-E36, is designed to target the innate immune system. TME Pharma is considering several solid tumors for further clinical development. Further information can be found at: www.tmepharma.com.

TME Pharma and the TME Pharma logo are registered trademarks.

Keytruda is a registered trademark of Merck Sharp Dohme Corp.

Visit TME Pharma on LinkedIn and Twitter.

About the GLORIA Study

GLORIA (NCT04121455) is TME Pharma's dose-escalation, Phase 1/2 study of NOX-A12 in combination with radiotherapy in first-line partially resected or unresected glioblastoma (brain cancer) patients with unmethylated MGMT promoter (resistant to standard chemotherapy). GLORIA further evaluates safety and efficacy of NOX-A12 three additional arms combining NOX-A12 with: A. radiotherapy in patients with complete tumor resection; B. radiotherapy and bevacizumab; and C. radiotherapy and pembrolizumab.

About the OPTIMUS Study

OPTIMUS (NCT04901741) is TME Pharma's planned open-label two-arm Phase 2 study of NOX-A12 combined with pembrolizumab and nanoliposomal irinotecan/5-FU/leucovorin or gemcitabine/nab-paclitaxel in microsatellite-stable metastatic pancreatic cancer patients.

Disclaimer

Translations of any press release into languages other than English are intended solely as a convenience to the non-English-reading audience. The company has attempted to provide an accurate translation of the original text in English, but due to the nuances in translating into another language, slight differences may exist. This press release includes certain disclosures that contain "forward-looking statements." Forward-looking statements are based on TME Pharma's current expectations and are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Factors that could cause actual results to differ include, but are not limited to, the risks inherent in oncology drug development, including clinical trials and the timing of and TME Pharma's ability to obtain regulatory approvals for NOX-A12 as well as any other drug candidates. Forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are made as of this date, and TME Pharma undertakes no duty to update such information except as required under applicable law.

ANNEX: Transaction Description, Use of Proceeds and Dilution

The "Issuer": TME Pharma N.V., a Dutch public limited liability company (naamloze vennootschap) incorporated under the laws of the Netherlands, having its statutory seat (statutaire zetel) in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, and its office address at Max-Dohrn-Strasse 8-10, 10589 Berlin, Germany, and registered with the trade registry of the Dutch Chamber of Commerce under number 62425781.

Use of proceeds: continuation of the ongoing GLORIA Phase 1/2 clinical study of NOX-A12 combination therapies in newly diagnosed brain cancer (glioblastoma) patients, preparation of a future trial including regulatory interactions, and general corporate purposes.

Financial Visibility: This financing will bring sufficient cash to allow TME Pharma to continue operations according to its current budget into December 2023.

Shareholder and Corporate Authorizations: The issuance of shares in this transaction relies upon the authorizations granted to the Issuer by its shareholders on June 29, 2022, under which TME Pharma N.V. may issue up to 11.5 million ordinary shares each with a nominal value of 1.00.

Issuer has completed and obtained all necessary corporate approvals for the private placement, specifically a Supervisory Board authorization dated March 28, 2023.

Transaction Details

This transaction consists of the following key steps

Conversion of 2 million of convertible bonds into shares at a price of 1.04161 per share under the agreement with Atlas Special Opportunities Subscription by new investors for a total of 1 million in ordinary shares for a price of 1.04161 per share All shares resulting from 1) and 2) above will be subject to 6-month soft lock-up and shall be held and managed by Invest Securities to ensure compliance Drawdown of 1.08 million tranche (nominal) under agreement with Atlas Special Opportunities (ASO) by issuing 1,100 convertible bonds (including 20 convertible bonds issued in relation to the transaction fee) with a nominal value of 1,000 each Outstanding convertible bonds subject to a lock-up for 6 months in exchange for interest during this period

ASO has delivered to TME Pharma N.V. two signed, irrevocable conversion notices to convert a combined total of 2 million of outstanding convertible bonds to shares at a price per share of 1.04161, reflecting the current nominal value of the shares and the minimum price under which shares may be issued. The first conversion notice being for immediate conversion into shares and the second for delivery of shares at the final closing of the transaction when all other shares of the capital raise are to be created to ensure that ASO never owns more than 49.99% of the Issuer.

New investors, subject to the above conversion notices and corporate authorizations have unconditionally and irrevocably committed to invest 1 millionin a private placement.

All newly created shares for ASO and new investors shall be delivered to blocked accounts managed by Invest Securities for the 6-month soft lock-up. Invest Securities will manage any selling in its discretion during the soft lock-up period for all investors, considering various factors such as prevailing market price and volumes. The principles taken into account in share sales will include the increase in the share price versus that at the transaction and trading volumes. Any sales will be executed pro rata of the shareholding of investors wishing to sell. Six months following the transaction the investors will recover full capacity to freely dispose of their shares.

The company has drawn down its last financing tranche from the financing agreement with ASO, for a total consideration of 1.08 million, and issued 1,100 convertible bonds (including 20 convertible bonds issued in relation to the transaction fee) with a nominal value of EUR 1,000 each. All outstanding convertible bonds held by ASO may not be converted during the lock-up period; this restriction shall only cease to apply if all shares will have been sold by Invest Securities during the 6-month period. During the lock-up period, interest shall accrue to the locked amount at an annual rate of 14.99%, payable (in cash or bonds at the discretion of the Company) at the end of the period or upon repurchase of the bonds by TME Pharma N.V. at a 5% premium to their nominal value. The agreement with ASO is terminated other than with regard to already issued convertible bonds.

TME Pharma N.V. has made the following undertakings to ASO and new investors: Standstill during the 3 months from the transaction under which it will not issue shares except in certain conditions including for instance the issuance of new shares at a price higher than 2.50 per share, consent of Invest Securities which may be granted in their discretion, TME Pharma believes it is advisable to preserve its going concern prognosis, or to honor commitments under its stock incentive plans.

TME Pharma N.V. shall make no additional disbursement on the existing convertible bond facility.

Table: Dilution resulting from the transaction

Description Price per share Total value Shares to be issued (max) Dilution Shareholder starting

with 1% would then hold Conversion of 2000 bonds 1.0416 2,000,000 1,920,060 44.07% 0.56% New Investment 1.0416 1,000,000 960,030 28.26% 0.72% Total Dilution from transaction 3,000,000 2,880,090 54.17% 0.46%

Outstanding shares before transaction 2,437,108

Outstanding shares after transaction (max) 5,317,198

Total Value % of market cap Upon close of transaction, assuming price

remains at 1, convertible debt will have moved from 3,107,000 127% to 2,207,000 42%

Outstanding convertible bonds before the transaction 3,107

Convertible bonds to be converted 2,000

Convertible bonds to be issued 1,100

Outstanding convertible bonds after the transaction 2,207

Value of each convertible bond 1,000.00

1 For the purpose of this press release rounded from the average of the 3 lowest daily VWAPs from the 10 consecutive trading days preceding the transaction.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005826/en/

Contacts:

For more information, please contact:

TME Pharma N.V.

Aram Mangasarian, Ph.D., CEO

Tel. +49 (0) 30 726247 0

investors@tmepharma.com

Investor and Media Relations:

LifeSci Advisors

Guillaume van Renterghem

Tel. +41 (0) 76 735 01 31

gvanrenterghem@lifesciadvisors.com

NewCap

Arthur Rouille

Tel. +33 (0) 1 44 71 00 15

arouille@newcap.fr
Macquarie AirFinance Holdings Limited (the "Company") announced today the closing of its sale of $500 million aggregate principal amount of 8.375% Senior Notes due 2028 (the "Notes") to investors in a private offering. The Notes are initially jointly and severally guaranteed (each, a "Guarantee") by each of the Company's direct and indirect subsidiaries, other than the servicing entities of the Macquarie AirFinance group and each secured group subsidiary as defined under the Company's existing unsecured credit facility.

The Company plans to use the net proceeds from the sale of the Notes to prepay a portion of the outstanding principal amount of the Company's existing debt, consisting predominantly of secured debt.

Michael Sims, Chief Financial Officer of the Macquarie AirFinance group, stated, "We are very pleased with the strong response to our inaugural senior unsecured note offering. This important strategic transaction provides additional diversification in our funding as well as continued momentum as we transition to a predominantly unsecured capital structure."

About Macquarie AirFinance

Macquarie AirFinance, an aircraft lessor founded in 2006, provides aircraft and capital to the world's airlines. The company owns and leases commercial jet aircraft internationally through offices in North America, Europe and Asia. Macquarie AirFinance is owned by Macquarie Asset Management (50%), PGGM Infrastructure Fund (25%) and Australia Retirement Trust (25%).

For further information, visit www.macquarie.aero.

No Offer or Solicitation

This press release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities and shall not constitute an offer to sell or solicitation of an offer to buy, or a sale of, any securities in any jurisdiction in contravention of applicable law. Any offer of the Notes and the Guarantees will be made only by means of a private offering memorandum.

Important Notice

Other than Macquarie Bank Limited ABN 46 008 583 542 ("Macquarie Bank"), neither Macquarie AirFinance Limited nor any other Macquarie Group entity noted in this document is an authorized deposit-taking institution for the purposes of the Banking Act 1959 (Commonwealth of Australia). The obligations of Macquarie AirFinance Limited and these other Macquarie Group entities do not represent deposits or other liabilities of Macquarie Bank and Macquarie Bank does not guarantee or otherwise provide assurance in respect of their obligations of Macquarie AirFinance Limited or these other Macquarie Group entities. In addition, if this document relates to an investment, (a) the investor is subject to investment risk including possible delays in repayment and loss of income and principal invested and (b) none of Macquarie Bank, Macquarie AirFinance Limited or any other Macquarie Group entity or Macquarie AirFinance Limited guarantees any particular rate of return on or the performance of the investment, nor do they guarantee repayment of capital in respect of the investment.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418006135/en/

Contacts:

Lee Lubarsky

lee.lubarsky@macquarie.com

347-302-3000
Macrae, a premier transatlantic legal search firm that places partners and groups at the world's leading law firms, is pleased to announce that Lawdragon has named a record 10 Macrae recruiters to its 2023 guide to the "Global 100 Leaders in Legal Strategy Consulting." The recruiters honored are Justine Donahue, Lauren Drake, Nick Goseland, Adil Lalani, Joe Macrae, Sarah Morris, Jane Sullivan Roberts, Andy Russell, Jon Truster, and Melinda Wallman. Goseland, Lalani and Morris appear on the list for the first time, while the others are repeat honorees.

"These leaders represent the remarkable array of advisors who have helped the legal industry grow into a global business generating hundreds of billions in revenues," Lawdragon stated in announcing the professionals honored this year. "To select them, we received a record number of fabulous submissions for what has become an industry standard guide. We combine those with our essential journalistic research into individuals and organizations, an ongoing river that flows through Lawdragon every day of the year. Finally, we vet candidates with a board of their peers, looking for those whose work represents sustained excellence and respect from competitors."

The majority of Macrae recruiters firmwide are recognized in this year's guide. Macrae is the search firm most represented.

"It's a great day for our whole company when we make up 10% of the entire Global 100. This confirms to all of us that the innovative approach we have taken to attracting the best in the business to Macrae is really working and being recognized by the law firms and partners with whom we work," said Joe Macrae, Founder and Chairman. "We continue to believe that what sets Macrae apart is not only our focus on hiring and retaining the most talented people in each of our four markets, but on the unique system of collective intelligence that drives both our culture and our business model. Team members' enthusiasm for capturing and sharing market intelligence with colleagues firmwide enables us to set the standard on ensuring that when our recruiters meet with firms, or partners looking to move, they are the most informed and up to date on key market information in the business."

Justine Donahue (Managing Director in Washington, D.C.): Donahue, named to the Global 100 for the second consecutive year (and profiled by the publication here), works across practice areas. She has a special interest in antitrust that draws on her 13 years of experience as an antitrust lawyer, including in private practice as well as at the Department of Justice, Antitrust Division. In 2017 she co-founded the Women's Antitrust Forum, an organization that brings together senior-level antitrust practitioners for substantive programs and networking events. She is also active in the ABA Antitrust Law Section's Women. Connected Committee. Justine earned her JD from American University, Washington College of Law.

Lauren Drake (Partner in Washington, D.C.): Drake, named to the Global 100 for the fourth consecutive year (and profiled by the publication here), joined the firm in 2019. She works across practice areas with both senior government and private sector attorneys. Prior to becoming a recruiter, she held a 16-year tenure at McKinsey Company. Drake founded and leads the Female Law Firm Leaders Roundtable in D.C. and the Women Practice Group Leaders Roundtable in New York, and is D.C. Co-Chair of WILEF (Women in Law Empowerment Forum). She also enjoys writing for publications including The American Lawyer and Bloomberg Law. She holds a J.D. from William Mary Law School.

Nick Goseland (Managing Director in Palo Alto): Goseland places high-performing partners and partner-groups into the Bay Area offices of top-tier U.S. and international law firms. He joined Macrae in 2022 after operating Edgewater Search Group, a Silicon Valley boutique he founded, for several years. He previously spent eight years at global recruiting firm Lateral Link, where he was a Principal and a member of the executive team. Before becoming a recruiter, Goseland was a securities litigator at a Chambers-ranked litigation boutique. He earned his JD from University of San Diego School of Law.

Adil Lalani (Managing Director in London): Lalani focuses on placing high-performing law firm partners with leading U.S., U.K. and international firms. He has over 20 years of experience successfully executing a range of exclusive partner searches and representing individual partners and teams across practice areas. Lalani joined Macrae in January 2023 from Felsham Partners, a boutique legal search firm he founded that specialized in partner-level search assignments in London. He previously worked for a number of international London-based search firms, where his work included spending considerable time in New York.

Joe Macrae (Partner in the San Francisco Bay Area/New York/London): Macrae, the firm's Founder and Chairman, established the firm in Palo Alto in 2001. This year marks his fifth consecutive appearance on the Global 100;he was profiled by the publication here. Macrae splits his time between the West Coast, East Coast and the U.K., serving as a career advisor to partners and teams and working closely with an array of Am Law 50 and UK 20 firms to develop and implement strategic expansion plans. Macrae transitioned from law into legal recruitment in 1988, and co-founded ZMB (now Hays Legal) several years later. He holds a law degree from Manchester University.

Sarah Morris (Managing Director in San Francisco): Morris places partners and groups into leading law firms in the Bay Area. She has represented partners across practice areas, including Private Equity M&A, Public Company M&A, Capital Markets, Tax, Restructuring and Bankruptcy, Litigation, Investigations, Real Estate, and Employment. Prior to joining Macrae, she spent a decade at global recruiting firm Lateral Link. As a Principal there she focused on attorney placements and client services at law firms in California and managed and developed Lateral Link's in-house division. Morris began her legal industry career practicing M&A at Skadden and holds a JD from Berkeley Law School.

Jane Sullivan Roberts (Partner in Washington, D.C.): Roberts, named to the Global 100 every year since the guide was introduced in 2016 (and profiled by the publication here), opened Macrae's D.C. office in 2019. She advises high-profile partners and government attorneys seeking to transition to the private sector. Prior to becoming a recruiter in 2007, she enjoyed a 20-year career at Pillsbury, where she was a partner in the Global Technology Group as well as Executive Partner for Talent Development. Roberts is a Founding Member and former Co-Chair of WILEF's D.C. chapter. She holds a J.D. from Georgetown Law.

Andy Russell (Partner in London): Russell, named to the Global 100 for the third consecutive year, has more than 25 years of experience in placing law firm partners and teams across practice areas into the leading law firms in London and Europe. He also specializes in new office openings. Russell joined Macrae in 2017 to open the firm's London Office, having previously served as Managing Director of Fox Rodney Search, which acquired his own firm Abrahams Russell in 2003. He holds a law degree from Sheffield University.

Jon Truster (Partner in New York): In the course of his 25-year career as a recruiter in the New York market, Truster, named to the Global 100 for the second consecutive year, has helped hundreds of lawyers advance their careers by making strategic lateral moves and dozens of law firms strengthen their New York presence. He works across practice areas with an emphasis on corporate law, and many firms consider him their go-to advisor when embarking on the most challenging "needle in a haystack" searches. He joined Macrae in 2022 after nearly a decade at New York boutique Greene-Levin-Snyder, where he was co-head of Lateral Partner Placement.

Melinda Wallman (Partner in London): Wallman, named to the Global 100 for the fourth consecutive year (and profiled by the publication here), focuses on the recruitment of partners into AmLaw 100 and top 20 UK law firms. She joined Macrae in 2018 from Major, Lindsey Africa, where she founded the firm's Hong Kong and London offices and led its EMEA Partner Practice Group. Wallman serves as Deputy Global Chair, International for WILEF and on the board of Black Women in Asset Management. In 2018 she founded Reignite Academy, a unique collaboration between London law firms that provides opportunities for women lawyers to return to practice after a career hiatus. She holds a law degree from the University of New South Wales.

About Macrae

Macrae is a transatlantic legal search firm with offices in London, New York, Washington, D.C., San Francisco, and Palo Alto. Macrae works with the most successful and innovative law firms in the United States and United Kingdom to bring on top lateral partners and partner groups and open new offices. The firm's expertise also includes representing high-performing partners seeking to make strategic moves and senior government attorneys transitioning to private practice. Its commitment to furthering inclusion and diversity in the legal industry is reflected in the candidates it represents as well as within the firm. Macrae is a majority women-owned business, and 80% of team members identify as belonging to demographic groups that are underrepresented within the legal industry. To learn more about Macrae, please visit Macrae.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418006145/en/

Contacts:

Lauren Gard

lauren.gard@macrae.com

(510) 246-1366
NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Macaulay Honors College at the City University of New York (CUNY) and the Liu Shiming Art Foundation hosted a special installation reception and panel discussion to celebrate the work and legacy of Chinese sculptor Liu Shiming. The event took place on April.11th and included a panel discussion featuring panelists Maria Cristina Pio, Fran Kaufman, Louise Weinberg, Angela Goh '23, and Sin-Ying Ho. The event also included the unveiling of Liu Shiming's sculpture work "Dream to Fly" which will be permanently displayed at the Macaulay Honors College.

Panel discussion on the work and legacy of Chinese sculptor Liu Shiming

Liu Shiming, who passed away in 2010, made a distinct impact on the course of Chinese modern art with his sculptures that focused on people's day-to-day life and the human spirit. Liu Shiming's legacy has been recognized and celebrated by the Central Academy of Fine Arts in Beijing, where he studied and worked. In 2018, the academy founded the Liu Shiming Sculpture Museum to research and investigate Liu's artworks and their historical significance. His works have been displayed in prominent galleries and spaces across the globe, including exhibitions in Beijing, Washington D.C., and a special exhibition in the main atrium of the Oculus in New York City.

Macaulay Dean Dara Byrne and the entire Macaulay community were honored to host this special panel discussion and installation ceremony. The panelists brought a wealth of experience in the arts industry and will provide insights into Liu Shiming's work and legacy.

Maria Cristina Pio moderated the panel discussion. Pio is the co-director and director of Education and Administration at the Godwin-Ternbach Museum at Queens College, where she oversees all aspects of education programming and administration. Fran Kaufman, a partner at Kaufman Vardy Projects, is also the curator of Liu Shiming's exhibition at Roosevelt Island Visual Arts Association. Louise Weinberg is an accomplished curator, visual artist, and photographer. Angela Goh '23, a senior majoring in art and computer science at Brooklyn College, is the first Liu Shiming Scholar from Macaulay Honors College, and Sin-Ying Ho is the associate professor in ceramics art at Queens College.

About The Liu Shiming Art Foundation

The Liu Shiming Art Foundation is a 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization which was founded in 2021 to preserve the works of acclaimed Chinese artist Liu Shiming, as well as for the advancement of the global discourse surrounding the arts, history and culture. The Fund aims to support art students and emerging artists by encouraging them to explore all forms of art, and to engage in a multicultural study of art history. Particularly, the Foundation hopes to foster a greater understanding and appreciation of Asian art forms, and to contextualize them within a global purview. Conceptualizing the creative process by focusing on a multicultural East and West perspective was fundamental to Liu Shiming's identity as an artist, and is consequently a central part of Foundation's identity. Fostering a sense of inclusiveness, the Liu Shiming Art Foundation hopes to remind artists of their power to create art that transcends time or place.

About Liu Shiming:

Liu Shiming (1926-2010) was a revered Chinese sculptor, whose works have made a distinct impact on the course of modern Chinese sculpture art. Born in 1926, Shiming attended the Central Academy of Fine. As early as 1950, Shiming received international recognition for his work Measuring Land, and thereafter, Shiming continued to make large-scale and publicly displayed sculptures. In the 1960s, Shiming resided in the countryside of Henan and Hebei provinces, where he gained a unique perspective on the working class and rural life. His time outside of the city, and closely handling folk art works in local museums, inspired Shiming to focus on everyday scenes in his works, becoming a common theme of Shiming sculptures. Today, Shiming is recognized for his ability to beautifully capture the most mundane scenes, as well as his aptitude for fusing folk traditions with modern sensibilities.

? Liu Shiming works have been displayed in prominent galleries and spaces across the globe, including exhibitions in Beijing, Washington D.C., and most notably a special exhibition in the main atrium of the Oculus in New York City. In 2018, the Central Academy of Fine Arts in Beijing founded the Liu Shiming Sculpture Museum, dedicated to researching and investigating Liu's artworks and their historical significance.

Discover the inspiring story behind Liu Shiming's masterpiece, "Dream to Fly," in this captivating documentary, Dream to Fly - Story behind Liu Shiming's Masterpiece

For more information on the work of the foundation, head to their website, Http://www.lsmartfund.org

Media Contact

Organization: Liu Shiming Art Foundation

Contact Person: Luka Lee

Website: https://www.lsmartfund.org

Email: info@lsmartfund.org

City: New York City

State: New York

Country: United States

SOURCE: Liu Shiming Art Foundation

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/749959/Liu-Shimings-Legacy-Celebrated-at-Macaulay-Honors-College-with-Panel-Discussion-and-Sculpture-Unveiling
NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Inogen Alliance



Our Associate Antea Group Netherlands is leading the way with green ammonia projects across the country. Other countries, such as Italy and the US, are looking more into Hydrogen instead of Ammonia-H right now, but the demand for consulting in the Netherlands on green ammonia projects is rising.

According to Monique Berrevoets-Steenbakker of Antea Group Netherlands (AGN), they are consulting on seven large developments surrounding green ammonia. In the past, ammonia has had a negative reputation in the country because of its toxicity. In a high concentration, it is highly dangerous to humans and nature. It is hard to ignite, but it is flammable, and its vapor cloud can travel a long distance, which could be a threat to any urban areas. Governments have been afraid to permit it in the past because of these reasons which resulted in a strict regulatory environment.

It takes one bad incident, such as a train derailment in Serbia last December that spilled ammonia, to scare governments and citizens alike away from using ammonia for energy transition. When surrounding countries reported on this Serbian train derailment and ammonia spill, it created fear in people and led them to believe ammonia is too dangerous to use.

However, many governments and urban areas don't realize how much knowledge we already have surrounding ammonia. It's a great substance to use in energy transition as a hydrogen carrier and as a primary fuel as long as its toxicity is taken into account.

The ammonia Technology Readiness Level (TRL) is mature, as people have been dealing with ammonia for over 100 years. That makes a difference, because other substances that are lower on the TLR scale can be more dangerous as we know less about them. With ammonia, the body of knowledge and research is much larger than with other substances, so the industry knows how to handle it safely at this point.

Challenges with Ammonia Energy Transition

Currently since ammonia is an existing technology used in industrial areas, it is used safely and correctly. However, as green ammonia becomes more common in energy transition, new (unproven) technologies are beginning to be used more. For example, an ammonia cracker is a machine that cracks ammonia into hydrogen and nitrogen, which is a cost-effective way of generating those two substances. Hydrogen is then used for energy. While this cracking process isn't new, it's the fact that we are now doing this on a large industrial scale that brings us into unknown territory.

A lot of companies are working to develop a large-scale ammonia cracker. Another new thing is that ammonia is no longer only used in industrial areas, but it's transported throughout the countries to where energy is needed. So, that brings ammonia close to urban areas, which hasn't been done before on this scale.

How Antea Group Netherlands helps with Green Ammonia Projects

In offshore production, Antea Group Netherlands help companies get required legal registers, permit applications, and complete safety studies (for people working with it) and environmental studies (including risk analysis for humans but also for spills into the ocean / the effect on sea life).

In onshore production and storage, Antea Group Netherlands again provides advisory for legal registers and permit applications. Stakeholder management is also important in terms of safety and environmental issues, as well as the transport of ammonia. It's key to look at all the stakeholders and how they use the ammonia. Antea Group Netherlands also helps with spatial planning, which includes how the location of the facility is planned and how the urban area that's close to a facility is planned. Finally, Antea Group Netherlands advises governmental parties such as fire departments in how to deal with an incident in emergency planning.

Storage usually takes place in industrial areas in HSE storage terminals. Antea Group Netherlands does pretty much everything from terminal management to permitting to emergency response. They are building up a large amount of experience with this.

Now, as more companies look into ammonia cracking on an industrial scale, Antea Group Netherlands supports them with Hazard and Operability Analysis (HAZOP) support, engineering support, and risk studies. Typical clients include industrial clients and the national government and ministry, as AGN advises them on how to use ammonia in the energy transition sector.

What's Changing with Green Ammonia

A few years ago, the Netherlands banned nearly all transport of ammonia through the country. Now, as green ammonia becomes a stronger player in the energy transition sector, that is rolling back. Western Europe needs carbon free energy, especially with the ongoing energy crisis, so at this moment the use of ammonia is inevitable. AGN advises them on the risks and making legislation.

Authorities sometimes ask for support because there are few people in the country that have the knowledge to give permits for green ammonia. That includes advising on how to apply for permits, pushing for legislation at the government level to allow ammonia transport, and even helping teach people who give permits what they need to know about permitting for ammonia. AGN is in a position to help companies and authorities throughout the entire process.

Similarly, green ammonia projects are rising in New Zealand, with the building and development of potentially the world's largest green hydrogen production plant in Southland. Our Inogen Alliance associate Tonkin + Taylor is providing early-stage planning and consenting expertise to help make the project a reality. Green ammonia may not be center stage yet in other countries around the world, but with interest rising on an industrial scale and the need for carbon free energy around the world, it's only a matter of time.

According to Monique Berrevoets-Steenbakker of Antea Group Netherlands, in "The current situation, ammonia is used for fertilizers. But when I see the projects we are involved in, the landscape will be completely different. I think in the next 10-20 years we'll see the landscape very much changing from oil to ammonia we are involved in other sources, but they are not as developed as green ammonia is."

Inogen Alliance is a global network made up of dozens of independent local businesses and over 5,000 consultants around the world who can help make your project a success. Our Associates collaborate closely to serve multinational corporations, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations, and we share knowledge and industry experience to provide the highest quality service to our clients. If you want to learn more about how you can work with Inogen Alliance, you can explore our Associates or Contact Us. Watch for more News & Blog updates here and follow us on LinkedIn.

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Inogen Alliance on 3blmedia.com.



Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Inogen Alliance

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/inogen-alliance

Email: info@3blmedia.com



SOURCE: Inogen Alliance

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/749982/Antea-Group-Netherlands-and-the-Green-Ammonia-Frontier
TORONTO, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Bank of Montreal (TSX: BMO) (NYSE: BMO) today held its Annual Meeting of Shareholders.

At the meeting, all the director nominees listed in the bank's management proxy circular dated February 6, 2023 were elected. The detailed results of the vote for the election of directors are set out below.

Each of the following 13 nominees was elected as a director of Bank of Montreal:

Nominee Votes For Votes Withheld Janice M. Babiak 351,265,494 97.87 % 7,642,029 2.13 % Sophie Brochu 350,385,690 97.63 % 8,521,833 2.37 % Craig W. Broderick 355,002,307 98.91 % 3,905,215 1.09 % George A. Cope 343,003,583 95.57 % 15,903,939 4.43 % Stephen Dent 357,798,594 99.69 % 1,108,927 0.31 % Christine A. Edwards 349,346,887 97.34 % 9,560,636 2.66 % Martin S. Eichenbaum 356,306,341 99.28 % 2,601,181 0.72 % David Harquail 356,718,020 99.39 % 2,189,502 0.61 % Linda S. Huber 356,564,090 99.35 % 2,343,433 0.65 % Eric R. La Fleche 355,352,580 99.01 % 3,554,497 0.99 % Lorraine Mitchelmore 354,474,358 98.76 % 4,433,165 1.24 % Madhu Ranganathan 324,532,435 90.42 % 34,375,088 9.58 % Darryl White 356,410,039 99.30 % 2,497,483 0.70 %



Final voting results on all matters voted on at the Annual Meeting of Shareholders held earlier today will be published shortly on www.bmo.com, and filed with Canadian and U.S. securities regulators.

About BMO Financial Group

BMO Financial Group is the eighth largest bank in North America by assets, with total assets of $1.15 trillion as of January 31, 2023. Serving customers for 200 years and counting, BMO is a diverse team of highly engaged employees providing a broad range of personal and commercial banking, wealth management, global markets and investment banking products and services to 12 million customers across Canada, the United States, and in select markets globally. Driven by a single purpose, to Boldly Grow the Good in business and life, BMO is committed to driving positive change in the world, and making progress for a thriving economy, sustainable future and more inclusive society.

Internet: www.bmo.com Twitter: @BMOMedia

For News Media Inquiries: John Fenton, Toronto, john.fenton@bmo.com, (416) 867-3996; For Investor Relations Inquiries: Christine Viau, Head, Investor Relations, Toronto, christine.viau@bmo.com, (416) 867-6956; Bill Anderson, Director, Investor Relations, Toronto, Bill2.Anderson@bmo.com, (416) 867-7834

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/bmo-confirms-election-of-board-of-directors-301801020.html
Dr. Santiago Munne, a pioneer in preimplantation genetic diagnosis, presented the new test at the PGDIS Conference





The novel laboratory test will not only detect genes inherited from parents, but will also reveal new mutations that could lead to 'de novo' diseases such as autism



PARIS, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Dr. Santiago Munne, a pioneer in preimplantation genetic diagnosis, presented the first whole genome sequencing test in embryos before delegates at the 20th Conference of the Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis International Society (PGDIS), held this week in Paris.

In his plenary address attended by over 300 experts, Dr. Munne, an internationally recognized trailblazer in reproductive genetics, presented validation data for GenomeScreen, the test developed by the research team he leads at the biotechnology firm GenEmbryomics.

"We have known since we started working with embryo diagnostics back in 1993 that embryo selection would be key to pregnancy, especially in older patients. Over the last 30 years, our work has been focused on improving genetic embryo selection, though the definitive diagnostic approach-the one that provides the most information and the best outcomes-will doubtless be this one: whole genome sequencing of the embryo using just a few cells obtained from a biopsy. This test will open doors that we never knew existed," says Munne of the work done at GenEmbryomics.

To understand the genome is to know everything about an embryo before transfer

GenomeScreen is a revolutionary new whole genome sequencing test for IVF embryos that has been described as "the most complete genetic test in IVF" by authorities at the PGDIS forum.

The test provides highly precise information on the genome sequence of the embryo and the genetic parents, offering families key preimplantation insights on embryo health and reproductive prognosis that can inform their decisions. Furthermore, this information will be invaluable to individuals born from IVF, as it will provide input on nutrigenomics or guidance on which medicines are most genetically suited to the patient.

"When we first started our research on embryo sequencing, our goal was to create a powerful, comprehensive tool that could equip fertility physicians with exhaustive data for precision screening," recalls Dr. Nick Murphy, founder of GenEmbryomics. "Now that we have this tool and use it with 99% reliability, we are aware that this diagnosis not only provides information, but also substantially enhances the success of reproductive medicine," adds Murphy.

Embryo sequencing will increase IVF success rates

Professor Munne, whose career as a leader in reproductive genetics spans over 20 years, has made enormous contributions to embryo selection and IVF treatment. With this test, he and his team of researchers solidify the role of genetic testing within reproductive medicine, increasing treatment success.

"The findings presented at the conference are the validation data for a test that will change embryo selection as we know it," according to Munne. "Preimplantation genetic analysis with whole genome sequencing is a giant step forward: among other things, it will tell us which embryo will implant successfully, because we will know beforehand which one is truly healthy-the one that is free of diseases inherited from the parents or de novo illnesses, such as autism," he concludes.

About GenEmbryomics

Founded by Dr. Nick Murphy in 2019, GenEmbryomics is a cutting-edge biotech company specializing in the genomic analysis of embryos to determine the most viable candidates for IVF implantation. Their work will lead to higher success rates in IVF cycles, thanks to their proprietary algorithms offering more accurate and efficient embryo selection based on each embryo's whole genome.
Batteries completed more than 9,000 charge/discharge cycles in testing at a DNV lab, with ~87% capacity retention

Results highlight significant performance advantages of Electrovaya batteries

TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Electrovaya Inc. ("Electrovaya" or the "Company") (TSX:EFL)(OTCQB:EFLVF) a leading lithium-ion battery technology and manufacturing company, is pleased to announce that its batteries demonstrated industry-leading cycle life in third-party testing.

The batteries completed more than 9,000 charge/discharge cycles using aggressive vehicle duty cycles in cell testing at DNV's BEST Test Center battery labs in Rochester, NY, while retaining approximately 87% of their initial capacity. This extrapolates to about 14,000 projected cycles until cells reach 80% of their initial capacity. The testing has been ongoing on multiple large format 44Ah cells at a variety of charge/discharge rates and temperatures for more than three years.

"This long-term testing at DNV clearly demonstrates the significant advantages of Electrovaya's Infinity Battery Technology with respect to cycle life and longevity, even under heavy-duty conditions. In fact, the projection to more than 14,000 cycles demonstrates a performance advantage of three to five times the cycle life of a typical lithium-ion battery," said Dr. Elmira Memarzadeh, Director of Engineering Programs at Electrovaya. "This performance, when viewed through a typical passenger car duty cycle, can be approximated to more than 3 million miles before reaching end of life, if we assume an electric vehicle has a range of 250 miles per charge."

Key highlights from the test results include:

Capacity Retention: Following more than three years of continuous testing, cells have completed more than 9,000 cycles with approximately 87% capacity retention. Testing has been completed at a variety of temperatures and charge/discharge rates.

Following more than three years of continuous testing, cells have completed more than 9,000 cycles with approximately 87% capacity retention. Testing has been completed at a variety of temperatures and charge/discharge rates. Projected Cycle Life: Extrapolates to about 14,000 projected cycles using an aggressive vehicle duty cycle to 80% of the initial battery capacity.

14,000 projected cycles using an aggressive vehicle duty cycle to 80% of the initial battery capacity. High-Rate Charge and Discharge Rates: Testing demonstrates no unfavourable sensitivity to charge rates within the range tested (0.5-2C Rate) at room temperature. A 2C rate would be equivalent to a battery completely charged or discharged in 30 minutes. This demonstrates that the Infinity Battery Technology can handle very high charge rates with no loss in performance, a key requirement for heavy duty applications.

Testing demonstrates no unfavourable sensitivity to charge rates within the range tested (0.5-2C Rate) at room temperature. A 2C rate would be equivalent to a battery completely charged or discharged in 30 minutes. This demonstrates that the Infinity Battery Technology can handle very high charge rates with no loss in performance, a key requirement for heavy duty applications. High Energy Density: Electrovaya commercial cells use NMC chemistry while achieving this extraordinary longevity.

Electrovaya commercial cells use NMC chemistry while achieving this extraordinary longevity. Decades of Operation: Considering typical usage of one deep charge discharge cycle per day, the Electrovaya batteries may last decades before reaching end of life.

"For typical material handling, electric bus and energy storage applications, demands on batteries often exceed one cycle per day, thereby making cycle life a key selection criteria. Electrovaya's technology provides a significantly better life cycle cost for these intensive-use, mission-critical applications. Accordingly, our batteries also provide a significantly lower cost of ownership, even with higher list prices," said Dr. Raj DasGupta, CEO of Electrovaya.

Data provided by DNV on EV-44 Cell Capacity Retention vs. Cycle Number at RT

Charge rate changed from 0.5C to 1C after 3,025 cycles

Charge rate changed from 1C to 2C after 1,762 cycles

For more information, please contact:

Jason Roy

Director, Corporate Development and Investor Relations

Electrovaya Inc.

905-855-4618

jroy@electrovaya.com

About Electrovaya Inc.

Electrovaya Inc. (TSX:EFL) (OTCQB:EFLVF) is a pioneering leader in the global energy transformation, focused on contributing to the prevention of climate change by supplying safe and long-lasting lithium-ion batteries without compromising energy and power. Electrovaya is a technology-focused company with extensive IP, designs, develops, and manufactures proprietary lithium-ion batteries, battery systems, and battery-related products for energy storage, clean electric transportation, and other specialized applications. The Company has acquired a 52-acre site with a 135,000 sq.foot manufacturing building in NY State for its planned Gigafactory, in addition to its two operating locations in Canada. To learn more about how Electrovaya is powering mobility and energy storage, please explore www.electrovaya.com .

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements relating to announcements regarding cell performance, cycle life, longevity, projected performance, extrapolated cycle life, relative performance compared to competitors, use in commercial vehicle applications, cost of ownership, life cycle cost, and can generally be identified by the use of words such as "may", "will", "could", "should", "would", "likely", "possible", "expect", "intend", "estimate", "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "objective", "seed", "growing" and "continue" (or the negative thereof) and words and expressions of similar import. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, such statements involve risks and uncertainties, and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements. Certain material factors and assumptions are applied in making forward-looking statements, and actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Statements with respect to solid state batteries, battery technologies and production roadmaps, are based on an assumption that the Company's customers and users will deploy its products in accordance with communicated intentions, and the Company has investment capital to deploy. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations include but are not limited to macroeconomic effects on the Company and its business and on the Company's customers, including inflation and tightening credit availability due to systemic bank risk, economic conditions generally and their effect on consumer demand and capital availability, labour shortages, supply chain constraints, the potential effect of health based restrictions in Canada, the US and internationally on the Company's ability to produce and deliver products, and on its customers' and end users' demand for and use of products, which effects are not predictable and may be affected by additional regional outbreaks and variants, and other factors which may cause disruptions in the Company's supply chain and Company's capability to deliver and develop its products. Additional information about material factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations and about material factors or assumptions applied in making forward-looking statements may be found in the Company's Annual Information Form for the year ended September 30, 2022 under "Risk Factors", and in the Company's most recent annual Management's Discussion and Analysis under "Qualitative And Quantitative Disclosures about Risk and Uncertainties" as well as in other public disclosure documents filed with Canadian securities regulatory authorities. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the forward-looking statements contained in this document, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

SOURCE: Electrovaya Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/749947/Electrovayas-Infinity-Battery-Technology-Demonstrates-Industry-Leading-Cycle-Life-at-Third-Party-Test-Lab
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - April 18, 2023) - Deveron Corp. (TSXV: FARM) ("Deveron" or the "Company"), a leading agriculture services and data company in North America, is pleased to announce that the Company's Q4 and 2022 audited financial results will be released after market close on Thursday, April 27th, 2023. At that time, the financial results and related documents will be posted on SEDAR and Deveron's financials web page at https://deveron.com/financials.

Deveron will hold a live audio webcast at 8:00 AM Eastern Time on Friday, April 28th, 2023, to discuss the Company's Q4 and 2022 audited financial results and highlights. Participants who would like to listen to the live audio webcast can sign on at https://app.webinar.net/EAORX4A351N or dial in at 1-888-664-6392, confirmation number 394342. Following the event, a transcript and audio replay will be available on Deveron's Investor website at https://deveron.com/investors. Questions will be limited to analysts.

About Deveron: Deveron is an agriculture technology company that uses data and insights to help farmers and large agriculture enterprises increase yields, reduce costs, and improve farm outcomes. The company employs a digital process that leverages data collected on farms across North America to drive unbiased interpretation of production decisions, ultimately recommending how to optimize input use. Our team of agronomists and data scientists build products that recommend ways to manage fertilizer, seed, fungicide and other farm inputs better. Additionally, we have a national network of data technicians that are deployed to collect various types of farm data, from soil to drone, that build a basis of our best-in-class data layers. Our focus is the US and Canada where 1 billion acres are actively farmed annually .

For more information and to join our community, please visit www.deveronuas.com/register or reach us on Twitter @Deveron.

Philip Linton

VP of Corporate Development

plinton@deveron.com

647-622-0076

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This news release includes certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of that phrase under Canadian securities laws. Without limitation, statements regarding future plans and objectives of the Company are forward-looking statements that involve various degrees of risk. Forward-looking statements reflect management's current views with respect to possible future events and conditions and, by their nature, are based on management's beliefs and assumptions and subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties, both general and specific to the Company. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in our forward-looking statements. The following are important factors that could cause the Company's actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements: changes in the world-wide price of agricultural commodities, general market conditions, risks inherent in agriculture, the uncertainty of future profitability and the uncertainty of access to additional capital. Additional information regarding the material factors and assumptions that were applied in making these forward-looking statements as well as the various risks and uncertainties we face are described in greater detail in the "Risk Factors" section of our annual and interim Management's Discussion and Analysis of our financial results and other continuous disclosure documents and financial statements we file with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities which are available at www.sedar.com. The Company undertakes no obligation to update this forward-looking information except as required by applicable law. The Company relies on litigation protection for forward-looking statements.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/162850
Flash Forest, a Mississauga, Canada-based drone reforestation company, raised $11.4M (CAD) in Series A funding.

The round was co-led by the TELUS Pollinator Fund for Good and OurCrowd.

The company intends to use the funds to support the development and expansion of its rapid post-wildfire reforestation solution through North America in the fight against climate change.

Led by CEO Bryce Jones, Flash Forest uses drones, AI, GIS, and plant science technology, to regenerate post-wildfire areas that are deemed too unsafe for human tree planters. The company has also entered into a multi-year commercial agreement with the TELUS Sustainability & Environment team to provide drone planted trees for their customers. Through this partnership, TELUS will offer Flash Forests technology to help businesses from various industries achieve their own environmental goals with end-to-end digital forestry solutions, leveraging TELUS networks and remote connectivity technologies.

FinSMEs

18/04/2023
Rally, a Portland, OR-based provider of a composable checkout platform for ecommerce merchants, raised $12M in Series A funding.

The round was led by March Capital with additional participation from Felix Capital, Commerce Ventures, Afore Capital, Alumni Ventures, and Kraken Ventures. In conjunction with the funding, Hyun Koo, Partner at March Capital, will be joining Rallys board.

The company intends to use the funds to further strengthen its team, penetrate enterprise and international markets, and expand integrations beyond Swell and BigCommerce with other commerce platforms such as Salesforce Commerce Cloud and commercetools and payment methods such as Affirm and AfterPay.

Founded in 2020 by Jordan Gal & Rok Knez, Rally provides a platform that offers ecommerce businesses a checkout solution as well as tools for post-purchase offers, to reduce cart abandonment rate and increase revenue. They currently offer support for multiple back-end and front-end platforms, payment processors, and payment methods. Later this year, Rally will strengthen its fraud protection offering with plans to build out Web3 features, starting with allowing merchants to accept cryptocurrencies in their checkout.

FinSMEs

18/04/2023
SpecterOps, a Seattle, WA-based cybersecurity solutions and services provider, raised $25M in Series A funding.

The round was led by Decibel with participation from Kevin Mandia, Jon Oberheide and Dug Song.

The company intends to use the funds to accelerate the adoption of its platform, expand services and training solutions, and research and development initiatives, as well as support new open-source projects and give back to the security community at large.

SpecterOps is a cybersecurity solutions and services provider specializing in deep knowledge of adversary tradecraft to help clients detect and defend against sophisticated attackers. The funding news follows the latest version of BloodHound FOSS (v4.3), which is available now and includes new Azure Attack Paths covering MS Graph app role assignments, Function Apps, Logic Apps, automation accounts, Azure Kubernetes clusters, and virtual machine scale sets.

Today, BloodHound Enterprise is used worldwide by companies like Capital Group, the University of Texas at Austin and Woodside Energy.

The company releases free and open-source security toolsets, including BloodHound, a penetration testing solution which maps attack paths in Active Directory and Azure environments.

FinSMEs

18/04/2023
The makers of Pushpa astound the entire nation with the unique concept video announcing Pushpa 2 The Rule. The arrival of Pushpas rule was profoundly cemented with the release of the breathtaking poster on the eve of Pan India star Allu Arjuns birthday, featuring the sensational avatar of Pushpa Raj, that grabbed every eyeball with its appearance on the first page of newspapers across the country. Well, this was more than enough to ignite the spree of fire that has today made Pushpa 2 The Rule (Hindi) position at No. 1 in the list of Most Awaited Hindi Films as per Ormax media report.

As per the recently released Ormax Cinematix report, Pushpa 2 The Rule (Hindi) has made its place at the top in the list of Most awaited Hindi films as on April 15, 2023. Having released the list, they further jotted down the caption 

#OrmaxCinematix Most-awaited Hindi films, as on Apr 15, 2023 (only films releasing Jun 2023 onwards whose trailer has not released yet have been considered)

With Pushpa 2 The Rule (Hindi) leading at the No. 1 position in the list of Most Awaited Hindi Films, Hera Pheri 3, Jawan, Tiger 3 and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 are other films that made their names in the list.

Pushpa 2 The Rule is directed by Sukumar and stars Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna, and Fahadh Faasil. The film is produced by Mythri Movie Makers.

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In a major surprise for her fans, Bollywood actress Ileana DCruz took the internet by storm after announcing her pregnancy on Tuesday, 18 April. The actress who refrained from sharing any detail about the father of her child or about her current relationship took to Instagram and shared cute monochromatic pictures to make the announcement. Her post has grabbed the attention of many including her fans and friends from the industry. While many congratulated the actress on the same, some fans also sounded curious about her partner. The news comes at a time when the actress continues to remain away from the news and public appearances.

In her Instagram post, Ileana shared two pictures, including one of a cute onesie that has a sweet message on it And so the adventure begins. Another picture is of Ileana herself as she wears a mama pendant on her neck.

Check:

Coming soon. Cant wait to meet you my little darling, she wrote in the caption.

While many including Athiya Shetty, Nargis Fakhri, and Shibani Akhtar showered love on the post, the actresss mother, Samira DCruz also posted a sweet comment that reads, Welcome soon to the world my new grand baby. cant wait.

On the personal front, Ileana who was reportedly dating Australian photographer Andrew Kneebone a few years back reportedly broke up in 2019. Of late, she is being rumoured of dating Sebastien Laurent Michel, the brother of Bollywood actress Katrina Kaif. She also accompanied the family to their Maldives vacation. Filmmaker Karan Johar during one of the episodes of Koffee With Karan apparently also confirmed their relationship in his own witty style.

On the professional front, Ileana who is known for working in films like Barfi, Rustom, Mubarakan, and Main Tera Hero is gearing up for the release of her next film, Unfair & Lovely.

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India finally has its first Apple Store. The technology giant opened its flagship retail store at Jio World Centre in Mumbais Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) today (18 April).

The companys chief executive Tim Cook, who is in Mumbai, opened the doors to the 28,000-square-foot store amid cheers from staff and hundreds of fans waiting to explore the countrys first Apple Store.

Soon after the inauguration, the Apple CEO tweeted: The energy, creativity, and passion in Mumbai is incredible! We are so excited to open Apple BKC  our first store in India.

The second Apple Store will be launched in New Delhis Saket on Thursday (20 April).

Lets take a look at Apples first retail store in India, the companys journey in India and why the launch is significant.

Apple Store in Mumbai

India has joined the list of 26 nations, including the United States, the United Kingdom, France, South Korea, Germany, China and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), that house Apple Stores.

There are more than 500 such stores around the world that act as a one-stop destination for the companys myriad products and services.

Consumers can now walk in, explore and buy Apple products directly from these stores.

According to an Indian Express report, Apple Stores focuses more on providing a unique experience than the actual sale of products.

Apple Stores operate on the concept of a town square, where people come together, interact, learn about the products and clear their doubts.

These stores also have Today At Apple sessions with experts which help consumers get acquainted with the iPhone makers latest products and services.

According to a TechPP report, Apple Inc will hold Today At Apple sessions titled Mumbai Rising throughout the summer. Under this, local artists and creators will come together to celebrate the local community and culture, the report added.

The other defining feature of Apple Stores is Genius Bar which offers technical support to consumers for all its products and services.

These trained Apple Geniuses help users in making the purchase decisions and troubleshoot problems with the devices.

The staff at Apple Stores are also equipped with mobile point of sale (mPOS) that accelerate sales and prevent long queues.

Apple in India

Apple is marking 25 years in India this year, with the launch of its first retail stores and boosting its manufacturing base.

The California-based company has been trying to open its flagship retail store for years but regulatory hurdles and the COVID-19 pandemic delayed its plans, according to Associated Press (AP).

Apple has been selling its product in India through e-commerce websites such as Amazon.com Inc and Walmart Incs Flipkart and stores run by Indian partners  Imagine and Future World. It also opened its online store in the country in 2020.

The company is heavily reliant on developers in the country for its App Store, as per a Hindustan Times (HT) report.

In India, Apple says it supports over a million developer jobs, while the App Store payouts to developers have hiked over three times since 2018.

Since 2017, the iOS App Design and Development Accelerator in Karnatakas Bengaluru has held sessions for more than 15,000 developers in the country, reported HT.

Apple has a long way to go before it dominates Indias smartphone market. Currently, the iPhone manufacturer occupies a mere 3 per cent market share in India, according to Reuters.

However, the sale of iPhones are increasing in the country. According to a Bloomberg report, Apples total sales in India jumped around 50 per cent from previous financial year to reach almost $6 billion in the financial year ending March 2023.

Apple first started manufacturing in India in 2017 and has since assembled a number of iPhone models in the country through Taiwanese contract electronics manufacturers Foxconn and Wistron Corp.

Bloomberg reported that the tech giant tripled its iPhone manufacturing in India in the last financial year, producing over $7 billion worth of smartphones.

The report said citing sources that 7 per cent of the iPhones are now made in India through suppliers including Foxconn.

According to Counterpoint data, Apple has a 65 per cent share of the premium smartphone market (prices above Rs 30,000) in India.

As per Reuters, Apple also intends to assemble iPads and AirPods in India.

ALSO READ: Apple Inc supplier Pegatron to open 2nd factory in India

Why is Tim Cook banking on India?

Ahead of the Apple Store launch in Mumbai, Cook said in a statement earlier: At Apple, our mission is to enrich lives and empower people around the world. India has such a beautiful culture and an incredible energy, and were excited to build on our long-standing history  supporting our customers, investing in local communities, and working together to build a better future with innovations that serve humanity.

#WATCH | Apple CEO Tim Cook opens the gates to Indias first Apple store at Mumbais Bandra Kurla Complex pic.twitter.com/MCMzspFrvp  ANI (@ANI) April 18, 2023

Experts say that Apple banking on the worlds second-largest smartphone market is logical amid its sales being hit globally.

Apples worldwide revenue declined 5 per cent to $117.2 billion in the quarter ending December 2022, as per The National News.

India has a large and growing middle class, which is a key demographic for Apples product, Akshay Hegde, co-founder of Indian e-commerce company ShakeDeal, told The National News.

While there are challenges to operating in India, the potential rewards are significant.

Apple, which assembles most of its products in China, is also seeking a shift by expanding its manufacturing footprint in India, especially after Beijings strict zero-COVID policy and rising tensions between the Asian giant and the United States.

China accounts for 90 per cent of the global production of iPhones, whereas, India manufactures only 6 per cent presently.

Big companies got a jolt, they realized they needed a backup strategy outside of China  they couldnt risk another lockdown or any geopolitical rift affecting their business, Jayanth Kolla, an analyst at Convergence Catalyst, a tech consultancy, was quoted as saying by AP.

Apples retail stores in India also speak to a two-sided China plus one strategy for the company: it has already begun moving some of its manufacturing to India to reduce its single-country sourcing reliance, Utkarsh Sinha, managing director of Bexley Advisors, a boutique investment bank in Mumbai, told The National News.

India is equally critical for them [Apple] as a market, to offset their reliance on China as a large but turbulent international market.

Kolla also said the new stores are a clear signal of the companys commitment to invest in India.

The flagship Apple Stores show how much India matters to the present and the future of the company, he told AP.

India, which has surpassed Chinas population to become the worlds most populous nation, provides a potential market for Apple to grow.

Around 600 million of Indias total 1.426 billion people have smartphones, which means the market is still under-penetrated and the growth prospect is huge,Neil Shah, vice president of research at technology market research firm Counterpoint Research, told AP.

With inputs from agencies

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British prime minister Rishi Sunak is once again facing heat and this time its over his wife, Akshata Murtys business deals. The British parliaments Commissioner for Standards announced on Monday that it had opened an investigation under paragraph six of the code, which says MPs must always be open and frank in declaring any relevant interest they hold.

The investigation stems from complaints Sunak did not disclose that his wife, Akshata Murty, held shares in Koru Kids, which registers childminders.

Downing Street has assured that it will cooperate with the probe, with a Sunak spokesperson being quoted as saying, We are happy to assist the commissioner to clarify how this has been transparently declared as a ministerial interest.

Heres everything you need to know about the probe and past instances when the British couple have faced heat over their financial dealings.

The probe against Sunak

Last month, British prime minister Rishi Sunak was questioned over Murtys shares in childcare agency Koru Kids. The agency could stand to benefit from an upcoming policy unveiled in the spring Budget this year.

On 28 March, Sunak did not mention his wifes links to Koru Kids, despite being asked by MPs over the childcare policy. When Labour MP Catherine McKinnell asked Sunak whether he had any interest to declare, he replied: No, all my disclosures are declared in the normal way.

However, a few days later, Sunak sent a letter to the committee stating that Akshata Murtys interest was declared to the Cabinet Office. He also said that an updated statement of ministers interests would be published soon, and that the list of ministerial interests ensures steps are taken to avoid or mitigate any potential conflict of interest.

The problem arises over why the prime minister did not also make the declaration when he was asked about it during the committee meeting. But, defending his actions, Sunaks spokesperson said, He has followed the process in terms of declaring his interests as set out in the ministerial code.

Also read: Rishi Rich: How much did British PM Rishi Sunak earn and pay in taxes?

Akshata Murty and Koru Kids

Akshata Murty, who married Sunak in 2009, is listed as a shareholder in Koru Kids. For the unaware, Koru Kids is a childcare firm that offers nanny and childminder services.

Companies House, the UK corporate register shows that Murty holds two batches of shares in privately held Koru Kids. She holds 20,000 ordinary shares and 7,100 Series A ordinary shares in the company.

Last month, UK chancellor Jeremy Hunt announced a pilot of incentive payments of 600 (Rs 60,915) for childminders joining the profession, with it doubling to 1,200 (Rs 1.21 lakh) for those who sign up through agencies. One of the six agencies listed by the government was Koru Kids. This new scheme would benefit Koru Kids, and, in turn, be advantageous to its shareholders  including Akshata Murty.

Previous backlash

This is not the first time that Murtys investments and finances have come under the scanner. The daughter of Narayana Murthy, the co-founder of IT giant Infosys in 1981, had previously faced scrutiny and criticism for claiming a non-domiciled tax status. Under British law, this essentially means that one does not have to pay taxes on dividend benefits received from overseas companies.

In April 2022, it was reported that 42-year-old Murty was entitled to a dividend payment of about 11.6 million from Infosys of which she owns 0.93 per cent. But non-domiciled tax status meant that she could benefit from a provision in a 1956 treaty that was designed to stop Indian citizens being double-taxed on their estates in the UK and India.

Also read: UK PM to move to small Downing Street flat: A look at the other opulent homes of Rishi Rich

The BBC had reported then that Murty had saved 2. 1 million per year through her non-dom status.

Its important to note that this isnt unlawful, but it angered the British public. To quell the controversy, Murty later said she would pay British tax on her global income, including dividends and capital gains, for the 2021-22 tax year and in future.

Besides this instance, Sunak has also been criticised when it was reported that Infosys continued to have operations in Russia post their invasion of Ukraine. Sunak had then said he had nothing to do with Infosys. His spokesperson had also said Akshata Murty did not have any involvement in the operational decisions of the company.

How this hurts Sunak

This new probe is likely to hurt Sunak. The Opposition has already questioned Sunak with Liberal Democrats chief whip Wendy Chamberlain saying, There are serious questions for Rishi Sunak to answer over any potential conflict of interest, and any extra income his family could receive from his own governments policy.

Too often we have seen Conservative sleaze run amok. The public must be reassured that any breach of the ministerial code by the prime minister will be fully investigated.

Labours deputy leader Angela Rayner added, Rishi Sunak must explain why he failed to come clean when asked about the shares his family held in a company now set to financially benefit from a childcare policy announced in his budget. He must urgently correct the record and set out what steps he took to avoid an actual or perceived conflict of interest. No proper explanation has yet been provided by the prime minister as to why this was not deemed necessary to publish in the register of members interests.

While the Opposition guns for Sunak, the prime minister will have to await the findings of the commissioner of standards. In the most serious cases where MPs are found to have fallen foul of the rules, a parliamentary suspension is possible. However, there is a long road to get to that point.

But, it is clear that this a huge setback for the British prime minister, who had promised to put integrity and accountability at the heart of his administration.

With inputs from agencies

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After reporting rare large-scale protests  largely peaceful  over stringent COVID-19 curbs last year, China has now come up with a new method to prevent violent demonstrations.

According to reports, the Asian giant has unveiled an electromagnetic gun that fires coin-shaped bullets in order to control riots.

The CS/LW21 gun was revealed in a military technology show broadcasted on the state broadcaster CCTV on 28 March, according to a South China Morning Post (SCMP) report.

What are the features of this electromagnetic gun and why has China introduced it? What do last years COVID protests say about the country? We explain.

Features of CS/LW21 gun

Developed by China North Industries Group Corporation Limited and other technology teams, the CS/LW21 gun is designed on the basis of coilgun technology, which uses electromagnets to fire a projectile, according to Bloomberg.

SCMP report says that the gun  with an estimated firing frequency of many thousand rounds per minute  has a sleek design, which makes it easier to handle.

China pioneers portable electromagnetic gun, sets development trend for future weapons

https://t.co/33mmM3dWJX pic.twitter.com/WB5pgyn3in  Zhang Heqing (@zhang_heqing) April 3, 2023

The gun is equipped with a display screen at the front that informs about battery level, frequency, bullet capacity, rail temperature and firing mode, the report added.

It also has a double-chamber magazine for continuous firing and quick reloading.

The gun is designed like coil guns, which use electric power to accelerate the projectile. When the nine-level coil is electrified, corresponding magnetic fields are formed, which allow the bullet to be sucked out by a relay race method, the guns designer, Lei Fengqiao, was quoted as saying by SCMP.

It is powered by a built-in lithium-ion battery that can continuously fire hundreds of rounds when fully charged. The charging time is also very short, with little influence from temperature.

The gun also offers a trajectory with superior control and multiple point hits, as per the SCMP report.

The coin-shaped bullets are also advantageous as they are cheaper and easier to store and transport.

The gun emits a low firing sound and does not have flash, smoke, or shells. With its small recoil, the weapon can be used in populated areas, where traditional firearms may trigger panic or more violence, the report added.

ALSO READ: A Brush with Revolution: How Teacher Li brought Chinas COVID protests to the limelight

Non-lethal weapon

The weapon has been called non-lethal as its round-shaped bullets reduce the risk of killing civilians during riots.

The device is designed in a way to reduce the chances of seriously hurting people while dispersing crowds during violent demonstrations.

These bullets do not penetrate the body, thus lessening the risk of injuries. During field tests, the coin projectiles penetrated double-layered 3mm-thick plywood and damaged cola and beer bottles, reported SCMP.

As per Bloomberg, in electromagnetic weapons, users can select the intensity and frequency of the firing gun.

However, the device can still be used to cause grave injury if the bullets are exchanged with pointed ammunition that can pierce the body.

ALSO READ: Rise of the People: As COVID protests spread, a brief history of rare acts of dissent in China

Protests in China

Widespread protests are not common in China, where the government heavily cracks down on any form of dissent.

So, last Novembers large-scale demonstrations against nearly three years of snap lockdowns, with some raising slogans like Xi Jinping, step down and Communist party, step down were surprising.

A blaze at an apartment block in Urumqi, the capital of the western Xinjiang region, was behind the unusual wave of protests which spread across Beijing, Shanghai and other regions.

Many demonstrators held blank pieces of white paper  a symbol of defiance against the ruling partys censorship  which led some to describing it as the A4 Revolution.

The biggest protests in decades in the country, which saw urban Chinese, students, young people and workers hit the streets, were mostly peaceful. However, some incidents of violence where people clashed with the police were reported.

The protests which eventually petered out had an impact as the government relaxed some lockdown protocols before abruptly scrapping the zero-COVID policy.

As per Time magazine, the government did not resort to repressive measures to quell these protests but adopted other nuisance measures such as checking phones and identity papers to discourage people from joining the marches.

The agitation showed that the state has learned valuable lessons about how most effectively to deter or demobilise protesters without resort to costly (in terms of both resources and reputation) and dangerous repression, William Hurst, the Chong Hua Professor of Chinese Development at the University of Cambridge, wrote for Time magazine in December 2022.

Notably, NPR reported in January that the police were tacitly rounding up people they believed were behind the demonstrations.

They have also shown us that grievances have likely not been assuaged and, if anything, deeper issues have taken root in the hearts of many that could lead them to take bigger risks in challenging the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) in the future, Hurst wrote for Time magazine.

With inputs from agencies

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Moscow: US journalist Evan Gershkovichs court appearance in Moscow on Tuesday will be a rare break from his isolation in Lefortovo prison  a symbol of repression since Soviet times.

The detention facility, which has housed a long list of high-profile figures, is engineered by the FSB security service to keep detainees in near-total solitude.

Its a frozen prison, theyre isolating you as much as possible from the outside world and from other prisoners, apart from your cellmate, said Igor Rudnikov, a former detainee and journalist.

AFP spoke to Rudnikov and lawyers, activists and families to gain insight into life in the prison.

Inside the pale-yellow 19th-Century building, inmates are forbidden from seeing or speaking to any detainee other than the one cellmate allocated to them.

Its hard to describe imagine, youre only ever with one man, in an eight-square-metre cell, 24/7, said Rudnikov, who spent almost 10 months there in 2017-2018.

Daily walks are also taken as a pair, in a roofless space roughly the same size as a cell.

Even a husband and wife in love cant spend that long together, let alone people who have just met, he continued.

For Rudnikov, this was definitely a way to apply psychological pressure, just like the constant artificial light and noise in the building.

Sound of Lefortovo

Much of Lefortovos four-storey internal structure is metallic  stairs, doors, floors and trolleys  so the building rattles and rings non-stop.

The system that prevents inmates from seeing anyone when moving around the prison adds to the noise.

To warn others to stay out of the way, guards loudly snap their fingers or rattle their keys as they lead prisoners through.

Thats the peculiar sound of Lefortovo, which you hear when you walk through its corridors, said Maria Eismont, a lawyer who goes regularly to the facility.

Everyone AFP spoke to, however, agreed that material conditions were better at the FSB-controlled facility than in other Russian jails.

Lefortovo is unusual in Russias regular prison system, as it holds high-profile people investigated for crimes including treason, terrorism or espionage.

Former US Marine Paul Whelan was detained there in 2018 before being sentenced to 16 years on espionage charges and transferred to another prison.

Lefortovo has held famous detainees since Soviet times, including writer Alexander Solzhenitsyn  briefly  or Mathias Rust, a German pilot who made a stunning landing near Red Square in 1987.

Also Read: His duty to report: Evan Gershkovich, the dedicated US journalist imprisoned in Russia

Across Russia, its name instantly evokes memories of Stalinist purges.

In the 1930s, it was rare that prisoners left the buildings alive, according to the rights organisation Memorial.

Times have changed however, and the lawyers AFP spoke to had not heard of physical abuse in recent years.

Its a very harsh but correct and polite detention facility, Eismont, who currently has three defendants in Lefortovo, summed up.

The main thing is that people are cut off from the outside world as much as possible, she said.

Closed world

As part of that, it is impossible for lawyers to bring anything  even letters  to their defendants.

Usually, I take some chocolate to share with the person Im going to see. In Lefortovo, they dont even let you bring your water bottle, Eismont said.

Ksenia Mironova, a 25-year-old journalist for Helpdesk media, remembered being laughed at for asking to buy credit for a phone call to her partner Ivan Safronov.

They said, how naive are you to expect to get phone calls, she recalled.

Safronov, a respected journalist, spent two years in Lefortovo before being sentenced to 22 years for treason in a remote prison colony.

For the pair, hand-written letters became a vital line of communication.

Mironova recalled drowning in tears after first receiving letters from Safronov.

I used to carry this letter with me, in my bag, all the time, she said.

Then, halfway through Safronovs second year at Lefortovo, the letters stopped coming completely.

It seems investigators  who read each letter and choose whether or not to pass them on  decided to withhold them.

Mironova recalled how weird she felt walking around the streets near Lefortovo being so close to Safronov but knowing he was in a completely closed world.

One day, though, well open up this fortress.

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Longtime Kremlin critic Vladimir Kara-Murza has been found guilty of treason and sentenced to 25 years in prison after what the journalist and activist has dismissed as a 1930s-style show trial.

The 41-year-old, who holds Russian and British passports, was originally detained in April 2022 and charged with criticising the Russian army. But the charge list was subsequently expanded to include treason and working for an undesirable organisation.

Kara-Murza has for years been a consistent opponent of the Russian president, Vladimir Putin.

He has also been involved in anti-regime parties and think tanks including the Institute of Modern Russia and the Open Russia Foundation.

He was a key proponent of the Magnitsky Act, which enabled the US government to freeze the foreign assets of Russian elites.

The law was named after tax lawyer Sergei Magnitsky, who in 2007 uncovered a corruption scheme that saw the Kremlin defraud Russian taxpayers of $230 million (Rs 1,886 crore). Magnitsky was arrested, tortured and eventually died in a Moscow pre-trial detention centre.

Over the years, Kara-Murza has been a major advocate for the sanctioning Russias pro-Putin elites by the US, UK and others, making him a prime target for the Kremlin.

Also Read: Kara-Murza, Alexei Navalny and more: The growing list of Vladimir Putin critics facing long jail terms

His standing in the Kremlin also wasnt helped by his close relationship with Boris Nemtsov, the opposition leader who was shot dead on a Moscow street in 2015.

His insistence that Putin was behind Nemtsovs death would have alienated him from the authorities even further. Three months after Nemtsovs death, Kara-Murza suffered kidney failure, which is widely thought to be been as a result of poisoning.

Two years later, Kara-Murza suffered the same symptoms, pointing to another poisoning. Naturally there were no clear links to the Kremlin, but investigative journalism group Bellingcat found that Federal Security Service agents were following Kara-Murza in 2015 and 2017  just before both poisonings.

Opposition decapitated

Kara-Murzas final court statement stated that the Putinist system had returned to 1930s show trials:

Ive been surprised by how far my trial, in its secrecy and contempt for legal norms, has surpassed even the trials of Soviet dissidents in the 1960s and 1970s. And thats not even to mention the harsh sentence requested by the prosecution or the talk of enemies of the state. In this respect, weve gone beyond the 1970s  all the way back to the 1930s. As a historian, for me this is an occasion for reflection.

Also Read: How life is inside Lefortovo prison where US reporter Evan Gershkovich is being held

There has been a long history of opposition leaders and anti-Putin activists being killed or persecuted. As well as Nemtsovs murder, this includes the 2006 assassination of Alexander Litvinenko, and  just recently  the reported poisoning of Alexei Navalny.

Nalvalny has been in prison since January 2021, when he was detained at Moscow airport after returning to Russia from Germany, where he had been recovering from another poisoning attempt in mid-2020.

The removal of opposition figures and the constitutional changes introduced in 2020, which effectively mean that Putin can remain in power until 2036, are strong indications of the presidents desire to remain in power indefinitely.

Over three decades, Russia under Putin has become a classic spin dictatorship.

The Kremlin routinely manipulates the political process to ensure it retains power via controlling the Russian media and even via virtual politics, where fake parties are created in a fiction designed to divide any opposition to Putins regime.

But alongside this manipulation, Putin has presided over a regime where political opponents have been neutralised, imprisoned or murdered  Kara Murza is merely the latest example.

Consolidation of a police state

This repression is not limited to prominent opposition figures such as Kara-Murza and Navalny. Putins heavy-handed approach has even led to children being arrested in Moscow in March 2022 for laying flowers outside the Ukrainian embassy.

Another child, Masha Moskaleva, now 13, who drew a anti-war picture and was denounced to the authorities by her school principal, was sent to an orphanage.

Her father, Alexei Moskalev, was given a two-year sentence in part for Mashas drawing.

In early March 2022, the Russian parliament passed legislation giving 15-year prison sentences for spreading false information about the Russian military. And there are accounts that denunciations reminiscent of the Stalin era are on the rise again as citizens are encouraged to spy on and accuse each other.

In such circumstances it is commendable that there is anyone willing to protest at all. Flowers were laid at statues of Ukrainian writers Taras Shevchenko and Lesiya Ukrainka across Russia.

Also Read: How life is inside Lefortovo prison where US reporter Evan Gershkovich is being held

Although not much, it is something under the circumstances. Although most Russians may say they support the war, in reality the picture is blurrier.

Meanwhle in late March, the Wall Street Journals Russia correspondent, Evan Gershkovich, was arrested and charged with espionage. Not since 1986 had the Kremlin arrested a foreign journalist.

Kara-Murza said in his final court statement: The day will come when the darkness over our country will dissipate. By creating martyrs and pushing the people into a corner, the Kremlin risks creating a situation when Russians have little to lose.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

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Half of Indias graduates are unemployable in the future  thats the conclusion a new study by the talent assessment firm Wheebox has reached, according to Bloomberg.

And whats to blame for this problem? Issues with the countrys education system.

Lets take a closer look:

Education in India

Education is big business in India.

Bloomberg quoted the India Brand Equity Foundation as pegging the industrys value at $117 billion in 2020.

That figure is expected to nearly double  to $225 billion by 2025.

Nearly half of the population is below the age of 25, as per India Today.

And yet thousands are graduating without the skills employers are looking for.

Pankaj Tiwari, who spent Rs 1 lakh for a masters degree in digital communication told Bloomberg, If I had received some training and skills in college, my situation would have been different. Now, I feel like I wasted my time.

Tiwari, who remains unemployed four years after finishing his course, added, I just secured certificates on paper, but those are of no use.

YouthKiAwaaz quoted the World Economic Forum as saying in 2022 that just 1 in 10 graduates are employable.

The website quoted another report as saying that nearly two million graduates and another half a million postgraduates remain unemployed.

Around 47% graduates are not a fit for any type of role within the industry.

Only 1 in four management professionals and 1 in five engineers have the requisite skills.

While unemployment remains over seven per cent, youth employment is around 3.6 per cent at the primary level, eight per cent at the graduate level and 9.3 per cent at post-grad.

Al Jazeera quoted a survey by research firm Aspiring Minds as saying that companies found 80 per cent of Indian engineering graduates did not measure up to their requirements.

The Azim Premji Universitys Centre for Sustainable Employment found that individuals with graduate degrees are over twice as likely to be unemployed compared to the national average.

The survey of 160,000 Indian households also found that women are more likely to be unemployed than men, as per Al Jazeera.Whats more, the youth know its a problem.

The Center for the Study of Developing Societies (CSDS) in a survey cited nearly half of respondents saying that unemployment is the biggest issue facing India.

The right job

But youths are also apt to hold out for the right job.

This is because, our society puts a higher worth on white-collar jobs, according to India Today.

Thus, those with vocational skills or on-the-job training are sidelined.

Indian youth end up looking for honourable jobs. They either drop out of their vocational courses or leave vocational skill-based jobs after just 2-3 years, the piece noted.

As Jayati Ghosh, an economics professor at Jawaharlal Nehru University in New Delhi, told Al Jazeera, As you get higher up the education scale, people are more willing to be openly unemployed. If there are no jobs available and youve done your BA degree, youre not going to then become a rickshaw driver. It doesnt make sense for them.

Businesses also say they are facing a tough time.

We do face a challenge in hiring as specific skill sets required for the industry are not currently easily available in the market, Yeshwinder Patial, director for human resources at MG Motor India, told Bloomberg.

Speaking to Al Jazeera, Varun Aggarwal, cofounder of Aspiring Minds, blamed ill-equipped teachers, an education system that emphasises rote learning and below par institutions.

Few graduates have done internships or heard an industry talk and few professors discuss industry applications for the skills they teach, Aggarwal said. We found over 90 percent of engineering graduates are not even able to write ten lines of code.

What do experts say?

According to India Today, students require future-ready skills.

They are preparing for jobs that do not exist when they are in school, thanks to the rapidly changing technology-driven job market, a piece noted.

Irwin Anand, MD India and APAC, Udemy, said, The penetration of technology, especially after the pandemic, has opened new doors for individuals as well as enterprises.

Digitisation and upskilling are key tools in not just empowering the countrys workforce but also in keeping up with new booming sectors in the economy, he added.

Robin Bhowmik, Chief Business Officer, Manipal Global Education Services (Skills Academy), told India Today the issue is one of opportunity.

While academia provides graduates with general knowledge and comprehension of subjects, industry-academia partnership is vital to empower young professionals with first-day, first-hour productivity training, Bhowmik said.

With inputs from agencies

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One wouldnt think of a mass of plastic being a hospitable environment for living organisms. However, scientists have found that it is now home to communities of coastal creatures, including tiny crabs and anemones, living thousands of miles from their original home on plastic debris in the Great Pacific Garbage Patch.

These creatures  sea anemones, white bryozoa, hydroids sprouting like orange feathers, shrimplike amphipods, Japanese oysters and mussels  dont belong on a chunk of plastic, but yet they have all somehow learned to survive in the open sea, clinging to plastic.

We take a deep dive into what exactly is the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, what scientists found and what is the impact of the new findings.

What is the Great Pacific Garbage Patch?

Before we go deeper into the new study, lets understand what is this mass of plastic. As its name suggests, it is a big, big, big soupy swirl of garbage, ranging from microscopic pieces of plastic to larger objects such as fishing nets and buoys.

Also known as the Pacific trash vortex, it spans waters from the West Coast of North America to Japan. Reef Conservation International, a volunteer organisation committed to saving our oceans, says the best way of visualising The Patch is to imagine a big soup floating in the ocean like oil does.

Conservationists and experts state that it is about 1.6 million square kilometres in size. To put that in perspective, it is thrice the size of France. It also said to weigh seven million tonnes.

A National Geographic report states that while oceanographers and climatologists predicted the existence of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, it was a racing boat captain by the name of Charles Moore who actually discovered the trash vortex. Moore was sailing from Hawaii to California after competing in a yachting race. Crossing the North Pacific Subtropical Gyre, Moore and his crew noticed millions of pieces of plastic surrounding his ship.

Also read: Around the world, bottled water sales are soaring: Heres why that is a big worry

While there are estimates of the patch containing 1.8 trillion pieces of plastic, no one knows just how much debris makes up the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. Thats because not all of the plastic is visible and it is just too large to trawl. Experts state that 80 per cent of the plastic in the patch comes from land-based sources while the remaining comes from boats and other marine sources. However, these percentages vary  a 2018 study found that synthetic fishing nets made up nearly half the mass of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch.

The cause of the patch is the worlds high and unnecessary plastic use and more so, the methods of disposing these plastics. The International Union for Conservation of Nature has stated that at least 14 million tonnes of plastic end up in the ocean every year. This plastic pollution is a big threat to marine species  they either ingest it or are entangled by it, which causes severe injuries and death.

The situation has gotten so bad that marine animals have no other option but to consume these pieces of plastic and ultimately end up dead. But now it seems that they are becoming a new home to marine animals.

Also read: What happens to the plastic after it enters the ocean?

A new plastic home

A new study carried out by Linsey Haram and her team from the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC) found that coastal plants and animals have found a new way to survive in the open ocean  by colonising plastic pollution.

In the study published in the Nature Ecology & Evolution journal, they revealed that dozens of species of coastal invertebrate organisms have been able to survive and reproduce on the plastic patch.

Haram, the lead on the study, was quoted as saying, This is creating opportunities for coastal species biogeography to greatly expand beyond what we previously thought was possible.

Haram and her colleagues examined 105 items of plastic fished out of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch between November 2018 and January 2019. They identified 484 marine invertebrate organisms on the debris, accounting for 46 different species, of which 80 per cent were normally found in coastal habitats.

Quite a large percentage of the diversity that we found were coastal species and not the native pelagic open ocean species that we were largely expecting to find, Haram said. They, however, did find a lot of open species, with Haram adding, On two thirds of the debris, we found both communities together competing for space, but very likely interacting in other ways.

The team also found that these species were not just there temporarily but were also reproducing and thriving there. They found tiny baby anemones budding off anemones and female crustaceans carrying little broods of eggs.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Firstpost (@firstpost)

What this means for the future

The study is a revelation and indeed a surprise. This means the plastic mass being inhospitable to coastal-dwelling species has now become a home to them.

Also read: Scientists suggest novel way to curb marine pollution by plastics

For marine scientists, the very existence of this new open ocean community is a paradigm shift. The new discovery shows that plastic is providing the habitat. Plastic is already transforming marine ecosystems in unsettling ways, and if coastal invertebrates venture out to sea aboard rafts of floating debris they might begin fundamentally altering oceanic communities, Haram and colleagues warn.

Sabine Rech, a marine biologist with the Universidad Catolica del Norte in Chile, who has studied life on ocean garbage in the South Pacific, was quoted as telling NPR, Beyond the surprise, I think the implications could be huge.

She added that this could increase the risk of species finding new places to take hold and become invasive. Moreover, she said that the idea that coastal species are able to make a go of it out at sea if they just have something durable to anchor onto is a little revolution in scientists thinking. Its a bit scary, she said, as well as fascinating.

The scientists said this is proof that nature is just finding a way to survive in turbulent times. Our results demonstrate that the oceanic environment and floating plastic habitat are clearly hospitable to coastal species, they concluded.

With inputs from agencies

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The ties between the United States and China have hit an all-time low. The Communist nation is hard to be trusted. It has been accused of spying time and again. It was an alleged surveillance balloon that escalated tensions in February. And now a secret Chinese police station in New York City has opened a can of worms.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) arrested two alleged Chinese agents Monday on charges that they helped establish an undeclared police station in Manhattans China Town neighbourhood on behalf of the Chinese government. Thats not all. About 34 officers with Chinas national police force were charged with using social media to harass dissidents in the United States, authorities said Monday.

What do we know about the secret police station?

The police station was allegedly operated by Lu Jianwang (61) and Chen Jinping (59). Both are American citizens and face charges of conspiring to act as agents for China and obstruction of justice.

According to the US Justice Department, Lu and Chen set up the first overseas police station in the US on behalf of Chinas Ministry of Public Security in early 2022. The police station was shut down in autumn after those involved became aware of the FBI probe. The men have confessed that they deleted correspondence with an official from the Chinese ministry after they discovered they were being investigated.

Breon Peace, the US attorney for the Eastern District of New York, said the men had engaged in transnational repression targeting members of the Chinese diaspora community in New York City and elsewhere in the United States at the behest of Beijing, according to a report in Al Jazeera.

The secret outpost at the very least provided Chinese citizens with basic Chinese government services like helping them renew their Chinese drivers licences but it served a more sinister purpose, say reports.

A Chinese national police official directed one of the two defendants to help track a Chinese-origin pro-democracy activist in California, Al Jazeera reports. In other words, the Chinese national police appear to have been using the station to track a US resident on US soil, said Peace.

This is a blatant violation of our national sovereignty, Michael Driscoll, the head of New Yorks FBI field office, said at a news conference.

Also read: Is China building a spy base on Myanmars Coco Islands in Bay of Bengal?

What do we know about the accused?

Lu has associated with Chinese law enforcement and was enlisted to help Beijing with repressive activities in the US since 2015, reports the BBC. This included harassing Chinese dissidents.

According to prosecutors, Lu attempted to push a purported Chinese fugitive to return to the country including threatening his family, living in China and the US.

During the investigation, Chen took a bathroom break during which he deleted messages with officials of the Chinese Ministry of Public Security on his phone.

The duo acknowledged their liaison with the ministry, according to court documents.

Lu and Chen appeared in court on Monday and were released on bonds. They are banned from travelling within half a mile of the Chinese consulate and mission or from communicating with co-conspirators, according to a report on CNN.

If convicted, they face up to 25 years in prison.

Though China is believed to be operating secretive police outposts in countries around the globe, the US Justice Department officials said these arrests were the first of their kind anywhere in the world.

Also read: How dangerous was the Chinese spy balloon flying over US?

Which other countries have Chinas secret outposts?

China has reportedly set up at least 100 such police stations in 53 countries the world over including Canada, the United Kingdom (UK), and the Netherlands.

The Canadian police said last month that it had launched a probe into two covert police stations working on behalf of the Chinese government in Montreal and the suburb of Brossard, Quebec. Were in the process of making sure the RCMP [Royal Canadian Mounted Police ] is following up on this and that our intelligence systems are taking this seriously, Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau said.

But the Chinese government accused Canada of a smear campaign. China has been  strictly abiding by international law and respecting all countries judicial sovereignty, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said at the time.

Last October, the Dutch foreign ministry said that it was investigating reports about the Chinese government setting up illegal police stations in the Netherlands. Beijing rubbished the reports calling them absolutely false.

Spanish human rights organisation Safeguard Defenders said in a report in September 2022 that China used these covert outposts in the US and the UK to harass, threaten, intimidate and force targets to return to China for persecution.

FBI director Christopher Wray said last November that his agency was monitoring reports of such stations, calling them a real problem, according to the BBC.

To me, it is outrageous to think that the Chinese police would attempt to set up shop, you know, in New York, lets say, without proper coordination, Wray said.

However, the Chinese embassies in the US and Canada call these locations overseas service centres, which were opened during the pandemic to help their citizens abroad with matters related to renewing drivers licences among others.

What are the charges against the Chinese police force?

The US Justice Department on Monday also announced charges against 34 officers of the national police of China for harassing Chinese nations in the US who are critical of Beijing.

They reportedly live in China and other parts of Asia and remain at large. They are part of an elite task force 912 Special Project Working Group  linked to the Chinese government and their job is to influence the global perception of the country. They target Chinese dissents across the world including the US.

According to the US Justice Department, these agents US social media to put up posts in favour of China and take on their perceived adversaries, which include the US and Chinas pro-democracy activists. They create and maintain accounts that look like they are run by American citizens, reports CNN. They target pro-democracy activists through videos and articles and some of these include explicit death threats, according to attorneys.

The Chinese propaganda machine rakes up topics like US foreign policy, the Russia-Ukraine war, human rights issues in Hong Kong, COVID-19, and demonstrations in the US like the ones which gripped the nation following the murder of George Flyod.

In another case, prosecutors alleged that an executive at a videoconferencing company (Zoom, according to CNN), conspired to disrupt a meeting to commemorate the Tiananmen Square massacre at the behest of the Chinese government.

The executive, Xinjiang Julien Jin, was previously charged by the Justice Department for the alleged plot, CNN reports. Now nine other individuals, including officers of the Ministry of Public Security and Cyberspace Administration of China, for interfering in video calls organised by a Chinese dissent living in New York in 2018.

In 2019, Jin and other associates worked with Beijing to block accounts of those seeking to observe the Tiananmen Square killings.

With inputs from agencies

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Will gay couples in India finally get the chance to say I Do? A five-judge Constitution bench of the Supreme Court will hear a batch of petitions seeking legal recognition for same-sex marriage on Tuesday.

Chief Justice of India (CJI) D Y Chandrachud and Justices Sanjay Kishan Kaul, Ravindra Bhat, Hima Kohli, and P S Narasimha will begin hearing arguments from more than three dozen petitioners on both sides, including the Centre, two state governments, various religious and social organisations, and individual litigants.

While same sex couples and LGBTQ+ activists hope for a judgment in their favour, the government and religious leaders strongly oppose same sex union. Earlier, on Monday, the Centre opposing the plea had submitted to the top court that courts cannot create or recognise any institution called marriage. In their submission, the government said that only the legislature can give legal sanctity to the institution of marriage and what had been presented to the court on the subject be petitioners is a mere urban elitist view and the the competent legislature will have to take into account broader views of various sections.

The government said that though India is a country of several divergent religions, castes, sub-castes and schools of religions, the personal laws and customs all recognise only marriage amongst heterosexual persons. The institution of marriage is necessarily a social concept and a sanctity to it is attached under the respective governing laws and customs as it is given sanctity by law on the basis of social acceptance, it said.

While India debates the matter, US-based Human Rights Campaign said there are currently 32 countries where same-sex marriage is legal.

Lets take a look.

Also read: Why Indias first openly gay advocate Saurabh Kirpal has not yet been appointed HC judge

Countries where same-sex marriages are legal

Netherlands

According to USA Today, Netherlands was the first country to legalise same-sex marriage.

Many of the rights associated with marriage that were formerly reserved for heterosexual couples were expanded to same-sex couples in 1998.

Later, in December 2000, legislation that broadened the definition of marriage to include people of the same sex passed against objections from the nations Christian Democratic Party.

Same-sex partners were now able to be married, get divorced, and have kids. Four same-sex marriages finally took place on 1 April 2001, and 382 more followed later that month.

United States

The US Supreme Court recognised gay marriage in 2015, stating that restricting marriage to just heterosexual couples violates the 14th Amendments guarantee of equal protection under the law.

This came after 36 States had already legalised same-sex marriage.

The top court, in June 2015 finally guaranteed the right at the federal level.

As a result of a decision made by the states Supreme Court in 2003, Massachusetts became the first state in the US to legalise same-sex unions.

Taiwan

Taiwan, a country regarded as a hub for LGBTQ life, legalised gay marriage in 2019. People from all around Asia visit Taiwan for the yearly pride march.

According to a 2017 Constitutional Court ruling, Taiwans definition of marriage needs to be revised to include same-sex couples.

Taiwan became the first nation in Asia to legalise same-sex marriage when the legislature passed a bill on 17 May 2019, as per Indian Express.

Yet according to the law, each partner must originate from a country where same-sex unions are accepted as lawful.

Australia

A measure legalising same-sex marriage was approved by the Australian Parliament on 7 December 2017, three weeks after a national referendum revealed that 62 per cent of Australians favoured marriage equality.

Churches are not obliged to officiate the nuptials, but employees of businesses that provide services, such bakeries and florists, will be in violation of the law if they refuse to serve same-sex couples.

Ireland

Ireland became the first nation to legalise same-sex marriage through a popular vote after 62 per cent of Irish voters (1.2 million people) voted in support of changing the definition of marriage to include gender-neutral terms.

Argentina

Argentina became the first nation in Latin America to legalise same-sex unions after the Senate there narrowly approved the measure on 22 July 2010, following hours of discussion.

The bill also made it possible to adopt kids. The law was fiercely opposed by the Catholic and evangelical Protestant churches.

Canada

Although though the Canadian federal government granted same-sex couples common law marriage privileges in 1999, it wasnt until 2005 that the Canadian Parliament made same-sex marriage legal across the country.

In 2006, the Canadian Parliament rejected a Conservative Party move to reopen the discussion.

Also read: What are Tokyos same-sex partnership certificates? How will they benefit couples?

Germany

A majority of voters approved legislation that legalised same-sex marriage a few days after German Chancellor Angela Merkel changed her mind about supporting the measure.

A poll by Germanys anti-discrimination agency found that 83 per cent of Germans supported making same-sex marriage legal, despite Merkels continued vocal opposition.

Several other countries including Costa Rica and Switzerland have also legalised same-sex marriages.

New Zealand

On 17 April 2013, New Zealand passed the Marriage Act of 1955 Amendment Act, which upgraded the definition of marriage to the union of two people, regardless of their sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

Amendments to other bills like an adoption rights bill, to guarantee that same-sex couples would have the same rights as heterosexual couples, were also made.

August of that year saw the modifications come into force.

Austria

Although civil partnerships for gay and lesbian couples were permitted in Austria as of 2010, a 2017 court decision ruled that they were discriminatory.

According to the courts decision, same-sex marriage will be legal starting on January 1st, 2019, unless the country passes legislation outlawing it.

That day, the first same-sex union took place shortly after midnight.

Malta

September 2017 saw the legalisation of same-sex marriage in Malta, a tiny Catholic republic that was the first in Europe to outlaw gay conversion therapy.

Following the introduction of gender-neutral wording in revisions to the countrys Marriage Act, Malta also gave adoption rights to same-sex couples.

Finland

A public petition with more than 160,000 signatures served as the basis for Finlands same-sex marriage legalisation law, which the parliament adopted in 2014.

The legislation was approved by the Finnish president in 2015, but it didnt come into force until March 2017.

Notably, Finland was the last Nordic nation to legalise same sex marriages.

Colombia

Colombia allowed same-sex marriage in April 2016 after a court decision saying that such marriages are not against the law.

Earlier, court battles against equal rights had resulted in legal ambiguities and officials refusing to register same-sex weddings.

Greenland

Greenland, a sovereign nation inside the Kingdom of Denmark, was exempt from Denmarks 2012 change to its marriage laws.

On 26 May 2015, the Inatsisartut, the nations legislature, passed a resolution to allow same-sex marriages. The law, which also permitted for adoption rights, became effective on 1 October 2015.

Luxembourg

A bill allowing same-sex couples to marry and adopt children was approved by Luxembourgs House of Deputies on 18 June 2014, marking the first significant revision to the nations marriage laws since 1804.

The law came into force on 1 January 2015.

Taking benefit of the laws he helped advance, Luxembourgs first openly gay prime minister, Xavier Bettel, wed his partner the same year.

Scotland

According to News18, in February 2014, over objections from the Church of Scotland and the Roman Catholic Church, the Scottish Parliament approved legislation allowing same-sex unions.

Yet, the law did not compel churches to perform gay marriages. Subsequently, it was determined that the marriages will also be performed by the Scottish Episcopal Church and the Church of Scotland.

Also read: Prevention of child marriage: Breaking inter-generational gender exclusion

Uruguay, Chile and Slovenia

Despite not taking effect until 5 August of that year, Uruguay became the second nation in Latin America to allow same-sex unions when the president signed a measure into law on 3 May 2013. Since 2008, gay and lesbian couples have been able to enter into civil unions, and adoption rights were made available in 2009.

According to Human Rights Campaign, the marriage equality bill in Chile was approved by the Senate in December 2021.

While on 8 July 2022, the Slovenian Constitutional Court ruled that the prohibition on same-sex unions was unconstitutional.

Other South American countries like Ecuador have also legalised same-sex marriages.

England and Wales

After months of discussion, a same-sex marriage bill was approved by the British Parliament in July 2013 and ratified by the Queen the following day.

The first same-sex marriage took place in England on 29 March 2014, and the law went into force on that day.

Within the Church of England, same-sex marriages are not permitted by the legislation, which is applicable to England and Wales.

France

In May 2013, Frances top court upheld a law permitting same-sex marriage and adoptions after the Conservative Partys unsuccessful legal appeal.

President Francois Hollande, who had been elected a year earlier, and his Socialist Party advocated for the bills passage.

Brazil

Brazil has officially recognised same-sex civil marriages since 2011 and has given these couples many of the same rights as heterosexual married couples, including pension benefits, inheritance rights, and the ability to adopt children.

In 2013, Brazil legalised same-sex marriages nationwide, with over half of its states having already done so.

Denmark

In 1989, Denmark became the first nation in the world to grant same-sex partners the ability to register as domestic partners.

In 2010, the nation also permitted legal same-sex couples to adopt children. Denmark passed a bill allowing same-sex unions later that year.

Iceland

Icelands parliament unanimously approved the legalisation of same-sex unions in 2010.

The first openly lesbian head of state in history, Social Democrat Johanna Sigurdardottir, wed her longtime partner in one of the nations first same-sex unions shortly after the legislation was passed.

Norway

The law permitting same-sex unions, adoption, and state-funded artificial insemination went into force in 2009. In 2017, the Lutheran Church of Norway permitted its pastors to officiate same-sex unions.

Belgium

Even though same-sex relationships were given legal status in Belgium through registered partnerships in 1998, same-sex marriage was only made lawful by the Parliament in 2003. Same-sex couples were given the right to adopt children three years later.

Netherlands

The Netherlands began granting same-sex couples special rights relating to marriage in 1998. Two years later, in 2000, the parliament approved a bill giving people of same-sex adoption rights and broadening the definition of marriage to include them.

Portugal

Early in 2010, the Portuguese Parliament approved a bill permitting same-sex marriages. The statute was signed in May and became effective in June 2010 following scrutiny by the Constitutional Court. However, the law did not give same-sex couples the ability to adopt, and a law legalising adoption was not passed until 2015, following four rounds of parliamentary voting. The law also made artificial insemination easier to get.

Sweden

In April 2009, the Swedish Parliament passed a law making same-sex marriage permissible in both religious and civil ceremonies. Previously, same-sex couples in Sweden could only file for civil unions. Although it is not required by law, the Lutheran Church of Sweden decided to permit its clergy to perform same-sex unions in October 2009. Same-sex couples had already been granted the right to adopt in 2003 and the right to artificial insemination in 2005.

South Africa

The highest court in South Africa found that the nations marriage laws violated the equal rights provisions of the Constitution in November 2005 and granted the government a year to change the definition of marriage in the law to accommodate same-sex couples.

Two weeks prior to the deadline, on 14 November 2006, Parliament passed a resolution to end the ban on homosexual marriage by a resounding majority vote of 230 to 41.

Spain

With a vote of 187 to 147, the Spanish Parliament approved same-sex marriage in spite of fierce opposition from conservative leaders and the Roman Catholic Church. This gave same-sex couples the ability to adopt children and file for divorce. Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero, the nations Socialist Prime Minister at the time, put out the legislation soon after winning office in 2004.

With inputs from agencies

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A Donald Trump ally and founder of the Stop the Steal movement has apologised after being accused of soliciting lewd pictures from teenage boys.

Ali Alexander in a message on Telegram wrote, While my audience is familiar with me battling SSA [same sex attraction others arent as familiar. I apologize for any inappropriate messages sent over the years.

While having repented before God and confess at Church, I want my supporters and those involved to hear my apology today. When Ive flirted or others have flirted with me, Ive flexed my credentials or dropped corny pic- up lines. Other times, Ive been careless and shouldve qualified those coming up to mes [sic] identities during flirtatious banter at the start.

But who is the far-right activist?

Lets take a closer look:

As per The Independent, Alexander was previously known as Ali Akbar.

His association with right-wing politics began in the late 2010s when his political screeds began gaining popularity on social media.

Alexander is one of the many New Right media celebrities orbiting Trumpland who built a brand through live-streaming musings on political warfare, the Observer reported in 2018. Like many New Right figures, he also has a history of dog whistling to the nationalist wing of the MAGA movement.

Alexanders Stop the Steal group  which says it was started by the conservative non-profit Women for America First  began gaining hundreds of thousands of followers on Facebook in the aftermath of the 2020 election.

The group called for boots on the ground to protect the integrity of the vote.

The Stop the Steal describes itself thus: Democrats are scheming to disenfranchise and nullify Republican votes. Its up to us, the American People, to fight and to put a stop to it.

Alexander took Trumps call to overturn the 2020 election to heart.

He was one of the organisers of the Stop the Steal rally which preceded the Capitol Riot.

CNN reported that Alexander in videos said he would contact the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers to provide security for the protests in DC.

I do not denounce this, Alexander said on Twitter video during the insurrection, as per The Independent.

As per The Washington Post, Alexander claimed to have worked with three Republican members of Congress to plan the rally.

We four schemed up of [sic] putting maximum pressure on Congress while they were voting, he said to change the hearts and the minds of Republicans who were in that body, hearing our loud roar from outside.

Two of the Congressmen denied helping Alexander while a third declined to comment, as per Insider.

Alexander was in January 2021 banned from Twitter, Venmo, and Paypal.

Twitter said it banned him for glorifying violence, while Paypal said he violated its policies.

Musk in January 2023 restored Alexanders Twitter account.

Alexander in June 2022 testified before a grand jury about the 6 January riots.

Today a DC grand jury brought me in under subpoena and the threat of imprisonment. I told them I committed no crimes and observed no one committing any crimes during the 2020 Election and January 6th, Alexander wrote on right-wing social media website Truth Social.

Alexander has not been charged with any crimes related to the 6 January riots.

However, in an interview with the Nebraska Examiner in August 2022, Alexander said he is facing several lawsuits as a result of the Capitol riots.

God certainly prepared me for this moment. Its taken all of my life experience, be it being a champion debater in high school. My mothers a lawyer.

And so, I think that that prepared me for the post-Jan 6. fallout, where I face more lawfare than any other single individual other than Donald Trump.

Alexander in the interview said he did not storm the Capitol and that he had the necessary permission to organise the rally.

Im not responsible for what happened, and Trumps not responsible for what happened, he added.

Alexander in 2021 called for a coup in Brazil after Trump ally Jair Bolsanaro was defeated by Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

The organizer of Trumps DC rally on J6 has thoughts on Brazil. pic.twitter.com/kd7SV751Pk  Ron Filipkowski (@RonFilipkowski) October 31, 2022

White supremacist Nick Fuentes, a long-time ally of Alexander, told his followers that the right-wing activist was bowing out of public life, as per Rolling Stone.

With inputs from agencies

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Guwahati: A fresh scandal has hit the Congress. Assam Youth Congress chief Dr Angkita Dutta has accused the youth wings national president Srinivas BV of harassing her for the past six months, discriminating against her for being a woman and using foul language to destroy her image.

Speaking exclusively to Firstpost, Angkita Dutta said she felt disappointed in her partys leadership for not taking any action against Srinivas BV despite knowing full well what was going on. I went to Jammu to participate in the Bharat Jodo Yatra and had then, in person, apprised Rahul Gandhi about the misdeeds of Srinivas BV. I expect my leadership to stand by women, but I am appalled at the high commands inaction.

Angkita Dutta claimed that her harassment started after she raised her voice against the mismanagement of Indian Youth Congress affairs by Srinivas, which also included discrimination against her since I am a woman.

He went on saying that I am an alcoholic. He undermined my existence because of being a woman. At the Rampur session, I was going inside the Mayfair hotel to meet seniors, while Srinivas was on his way out. As he crossed me he asked: What alcohol do you drink? Do you text after drinking?. Two of my colleagues were witness to this, Angkita claimed.

Meanwhile, despite repeated calls and messages, Srinivas BV did not respond to Firstpost queries in the matter.

Tagging Rahul Gandhi on a tweet, she also accused the incumbent national president of IYC Srinivas BV for not mentally harassing and discriminating her for past six months and asking her to remain silent on the issue.

Despite my complaints, no enquiry committee has been initiated against Srinivas BV. Is this the safe space @RahulGandhi talks about women @priyankagandhi, she said.

Came out because of #MeToo

When previous Indian Youth Congress President Keshav Kumar had sexually harassed and because of #MeToo came out. He was compelled to remove. Now despite being mentally harassed and discriminated by Srinivas BV for 6 months. I have been told to keep Mum and no enquiry is initiated, Dr Angkita Dutta, president of Assam Pradesh Youth Congress (IYC Assam) said.

She said she was keeping quite for the sake of Congress, but harassment doesnt stop by Srinivas BV.

Discriminated on basis of gender

Angkita Dutta further accused Srinivas BV for continually harassed me and was discriminating on the basis of my gender.

Attacking Rahul Gandhi, Angkita Dutta said: My values and education doesnt allow me anymore. The leadership has played deaf ears despite bring front of them MANY TIMES @RahulGandhi @kcvenugopalmp @priyankagandhi.

Srinivas has blessings of big leaders

She further accused Srinivas BV saying that he thinks he is so powerful and has the blessing of big leaders that he can harass and demean a woman in the organisation.

She also asked Rahul and Priyanka, I am a woman leader. If I undergo such harassment, how am I suppose to encourage woman to join the Congress party.

Had faith in Rahul Gandhi

Angkita Dutta said that she had a lot of faith in Rahul Gandhi and she even went to Jammu during Jammu during his Bharat Jodo Yatra to appraise him of Srinivas harassment and demeaning use of language towards me. Its April now and still no equity against him.

Is Congress safe for women?

I have kept quiet for months waiting for them to take action against him yet no one seems interested. Srinivas in the guise of his PR is getting away with all kind of wrong doings, Angkita Dutta said.

She said that despite complaints, no enquiry committee has been initiated against Srinivas. Is this the safe space, she asked.

How can a sexist and chauvinistic lead @IYC torture and demean a woman every single time. What happened to Priyanka Gandhi Ladki Hoon, Lad Sakti Hoon (Im a girl, I can fight) campaign, she asked.

However, Srinivas BV retweeted a post by IYC Legal Cell, which in a post said: Dr. Dutta has resorted to using utterly unparliamentary, undignified, defamatory, malicious words against @IYC President @srinivasiyc ji & has levelled totally frivolous allegations against him. The @IYCLegalCell is initiating strong/stringent legal action in respect of the same.

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Shillong: The northeastern city of Shillong kicked off the fourth edition of the Space Economy Leaders Meeting (SELM) under Indias G20 presidency on Monday. The meeting will conclude today.

Inaugurating the event, Meghalayas Chief Minister Conrad Sangma said, We are given an opportunity to host this event at an important juncture when India has cleared the policy for space and is making numerous strides in space technology. It is also at the time when all G20 countries together are putting maximum investment in space programmes.

Meghalaya is privileged to host the Space Ecomomy Leaders Meeting (SELM) Pre-Cursor Event on Space Economy, Policy & New Space as part of the #G20 Meeting in Shillong. We welcome all the delegates to Meghalaya, the Abode of Clouds@narendramodi @DrJitendraSingh @g20org pic.twitter.com/LZM1QCoNYH  Conrad K Sangma (@SangmaConrad) April 17, 2023

Lauding the efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Sangma said that he was confident that Shillongs name will echo in eternity and people will discuss the different foundations and policies finalised here.

The inaugural ceremony of the SELM pre-cursor event was attended by Conrad Sangma, MoS Dr Jitendra Singh and G20 Sherpa Amitabh Kant who extended a warm welcome to delegates present at the event.

The pre-cursor events have been organised by Indian Space Research Organisation. Talking to reporters, Principal Secretary, P Shakeel Ahmed said that representatives from the Space Agency of Russia, the Chinese Government, Ministers as well as ten Ambassadors will be attending the meeting.

Ahmed said, Apart from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), there will be exhibits by the startups of the space economy sector. We would also showcase our cultural heritage and events.

He added that hosting the delegates will help showcase and benchmark Meghalaya as a prime destination for tourism, investment and development, according to a press release.

The CM further said, In the issue of flood control, we have seen that space technology has helped us immensely to work in a systematic and scientific manner. The study of damages caused and what immediate actions are needed to be taken are available because of space technology.

Hailing the advancement made by space technology in India, Sangma said that the Northeast region of the country is bio-sensitive and bio-diverse and that space technology facilitates the region to identify forest covers and the impacts of climate change on such areas.

Sangma said that Meghalaya is one of the few states to use drones in a strong manner and not just to capture images and collect data.

We are also among the few states to go aggressively to implement e-governance. At the recent WSIS competition held by the United Nations, the e-Proposals project of Meghalaya was awarded one of the best in the world, he said while addressing the gathering.

With inputs from agencies

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New Delhi: The assistant director of the International Operations Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Raymond Duda, arrived in New Delhi on Tuesday to advance the agencys cooperation with Indian law enforcement.

The US Embassy here tweeted, A pleasure to welcome @FBI Assistant Director of International Operations, Raymond Duda, to New Delhi. During his visit, AD Duda will further the FBIs cooperation with law enforcement agencies in India. International crime requires international cooperation.

A pleasure to welcome @FBI Assistant Director of International Operations, Raymond Duda, to New Delhi. During his visit, AD Duda will further the FBIs cooperation with law enforcement agencies in India. International crime requires international cooperation. pic.twitter.com/BaOu3RLo5T  U.S. Embassy India (@USAndIndia) April 18, 2023

Duda assumed the position of assistant director in February. He has served at the assistant-director level at another agency in the US Intelligence Community, according to the statement released by the FBI.

Dudas arrival was welcomed by the recently appointed US ambassador to India Eric Garcetti. On Garcettis arrival in India, Indian Embassy in the US tweeted, Namaste, Ambassador-Designate Eric Garcetti! Were thrilled to welcome you to #IncredibleIndia and work with you to build even stronger ties between our two great nations.

The Senate on March 15 (Local Time) confirmed the former mayor of Los Angeles, Eris Garcetti, to be the US ambassador to India.

Garcetti won the mandate by a vote of 52 to 42, a major victory for US President Joe Biden as well, who stuck by his political ally in the face of the allegations and the prolonged process that has left the worlds most populous democracies without US representatives.

After the result, Garcetti said in a statement, Im thrilled with todays outcome, which was a decisive and bipartisan decision to fill a critical post that has been vacant for far too long. Now the hard work begins.

With inputs from agencies

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be completing nine years of his tenure next month. It is a suitable juncture to take stock of developments and achievements, particularly in the area of foreign policy that the country has registered over this period.

While speaking of foreign policy, it needs to be kept in mind that the policy that a country pursues in the international arena is to a considerable extent determined by developments taking place elsewhere in the world. Not even the strongest powers can have the results or outcomes that they desire because of global events over which they have little control. In the recent past, we have witnessed how the US, the single most powerful country in the world, had to suffer an ignominious exit from Afghanistan after having been in that country for 20 years to establish peace and security in the country.

Russia, the second most powerful military in the world has been stopped in its tracks by a much smaller power and country like Ukraine by virtue of the sheer grit and determination of the latters leadership, military and people. China, another major power was forced to withdraw in humiliation when it attacked Vietnam, a small and poor country in comparison, to teach it a lesson in February 1979. It has also been facing the pushback of de-coupling by major powers because of its hostile attitude during the Covid pandemic.

Secondly, the foreign policy of a country is a mirror reflection of the countrys domestic economic strength, unity and vitality. It needs no repetition that the reflection can never be brighter than the original. So if a country wishes to command influence in the world, it is imperative for it to have a robust and strong economy, ensure domestic stability and possess significant military prowess.

Over the last nine years, India has taken several far-reaching initiatives both domestically and globally that have significantly enhanced its clout and prestige in the world. This has been possible due to the bold, clear-sighted and visionary policies pursued by Prime Minister Modis government, both at home as well as internationally.

Domestic economic reforms

On the domestic economic front, some of the outstanding policies include the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax, Production Linked Incentive Scheme, Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, Jan Dhan Yojana (Financial Inclusion), Ujjwala Yojana (Supply of cooking gas and stoves), Direct Bank Transfer, the launch of Aadhaar (Digital Identity) scheme, Unified Payment Interface digital payment system, and many others. As a result of several such initiatives, Indias economy jumped from the 10th position to the 5th position from 2014 to 2022, while it had improved marginally from the 11th to 10th position over the previous 10-year period. According to several eminent economists, India which is the fastest-growing major economy today will become the 3rd largest economy after displacing Germany and Japan by the end of this decade or the beginning of the next decade. This rapid rise of Indias economy as well as several far-reaching reforms that have been initiated even during the pandemic and the Ukraine conflict have significantly enhanced Indias image and respect in the global community.

Over the last nine years, India has taken several far-reaching initiatives both domestically and globally that have significantly enhanced its clout and prestige in the world.

Relations with US

The dynamism in Indias ties with the US over the last nine years has transformed the India-US partnership into Indias most consequential relationship. During this period the relationship has touched new heights and continues to expand rapidly. Both countries are active members of the Quad. India conducts the highest number of military exercises with the US. Both countries are assiduously working together for a rule-based international order, a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific with freedom of navigation and overflight. The US is its largest trading partner of India. The increasingly assertive and expansionist actions of China in recent years have brought India and US closer together.

Relations with West Asia/Middle East

One of the most significant achievements of Modis tenure is the significant energy imparted to Indias relations with West Asia/Middle East. India is dependent on the six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states for 42 per cent of its overall oil imports. Qatar is also Indias dominant supplier of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG). Indian nationals make up the Gulf states largest expatriate community, with an estimated 8 million plus Indian nationals living and working in the region. The GCC is also Indias largest regional-bloc trading partner. The GCC has also been providing over 50 per cent of Indias total annual inward remittances. India recently signed an ambitious FTA with the UAE. Relations in traditional areas have been supplemented through diversification in recent years into security and defence cooperation. Several countries in the Middle East/West Asia including Saudi Arabia, UAE, Bahrain and Palestine have decorated Prime Minister Modi with their highest national Awards. Indias growing relations with these countries has had the added benefit of significantly reducing their support for Pakistan, particularly on India-Pakistan issues.

Rapidly expanding relations with West Asia have moved in tandem with a sharp upswing in ties with Israel. The I2U2 (India, Israel, USA, UAE) Initiative is helping India to straddle the earlier chasm between Israel and the Gulf nations.

Neighbourhood First Policy

Indias political, strategic and economic relations with most of Indias neighbours have shown considerable improvement under the Neighbourhood First policy espoused by Prime Minister Modi at the beginning of his first tenure.

Relations with Bangladesh are better today than they have ever been since 1975. The unanimous ratification of Land Boundary Agreement and highly fruitful visits by Modi to Dhaka in June 2015, and March 2021, and Sheikh Hasina to New Delhi in April 2017, October 2019 and September 2022 provided significant fillip to bilateral partnership.

Prime Minister Modis first visit to Nepal in August 2014 was a huge success. The Indian government responded with exemplary swiftness to provide relief and medical care to the victims of the huge earthquake that struck Nepal in April 2015. Since his first visit, Prime Minister Modi made four subsequent visits to Nepal. There was a short period of turbulence in bilateral ties during the tenure of Nepalese prime minister KP Sharma Oli. However, relations have been on a steady upward trajectory after Oli was deposed by the Nepalese Supreme Court in July, 2021.

Prime Minister Modi travelled to Sri Lanka in 2015. This was the first bilateral visit by an Indian prime minister after 28 years. It was a resounding success. Indias generous support in recent months amounting to around $4 billion and timely supplies of urgently needed food, fuel, fertilizers, medicines and other daily use commodities have established trust between the people and leadership of the two countries, notwithstanding the tilt towards China that was evident for some years.

With Pakistan, India has sent out a firm message that no talks will take place unless cross-border terrorism by Pakistan stops. By firmly responding through surgical strikes in September 2016 and on the Balakot terrorist training camp in February 2019, India has categorically informed Pakistan that it will face retribution for any terrorist actions against India. By revoking Article 370 relating to the special status of Kashmir in August 2019, India has done away with any role that Pakistan might have assumed for itself in the Kashmir issue.

India recalled its personnel from Kabul immediately after the Taliban came to power in August 2021. Notwithstanding that India does not have a diplomatic presence in Afghanistan, India has supplied wheat, medicines and other humanitarian assistance to the people of Afghanistan. Taliban is keen that India reopen its Embassy in Kabul. India has deputed a technical team in Kabul to oversee the distribution of its assistance. It has not let its guard down as Afghanistan and Pakistan continue to host a large number of terrorist groups which they could activate at any time.

Relations with Maldives registered a rapid upward trajectory when the government of former President Abdulla Yameen was defeated and Ibrahim Solih assumed power in September 2018.

It is clear that barring Pakistan and Afghanistan, Indias relations with all other SAARC members are significantly better today than they were in 2014.

Relations with Japan and Australia

Indias relations with Japan and Australia have witnessed a momentous jump. This is reflected in the conclusion of the civilian nuclear deals by India with both of these countries. The three countries also entered into a Supply Chain Resilience Initiative in April 2021. PMs of both countries visited India in March 2023. Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to visit both Japan and Australia in the coming months. Japanese and Australian PMs are expected to visit India in September for the G20 Summit.

Vaccine Maitri Initiative

The leadership displayed by India in dealing with the Covid-19 pandemic in its health, economic and social impact has won it huge praise and respect from the world. India also emerged as one of the few countries to share about 300 million doses with more than 100 countries. This compassionate attitude particularly towards the developing countries of Asia, Africa and Latin America, who were denied access to the vaccines has significantly enhanced Indias stature. The world has realized that Indias development and growth is good not only for its own people but the whole world, particularly the developing countries.

Indias G20 presidency

Indias G20 presidency in 2023 is based on its ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. This is enshrined in its motto of the presidency  One Earth, One Family, One Future. India is one of the few major countries which has cordial relations with Russia as well as with the West and Ukraine. Polarization between the West and Russia and China has grown since the Bali Summit. This has made the task of arriving at an agreed Text at the G20 Summit in September 2023 even more difficult.

India is handling its G20 presidency very differently from the preceding countries. Realising that no decisions by the G20 nations would be sustainable in the absence of the large number of developing countries in Asia, Africa and Latin America who are not a part of the process, India organised a Voice of the Global South Summit in January 2023 to seek their views, concerns and suggestions for incorporating into the G20 deliberations. About 125 countries shared their thoughts.

Russia-Ukraine conflict

Relations between India and Russia came under stress due to pressure from the West to condemn Russia for its attack on Ukraine in February 2022. India took a principled position by abstaining from most Resolutions in the UN Security Council and General Assembly and advocating the path of peace, diplomacy and dialogue. To safeguard its energy security, India significantly enhanced its imports of crude oil from Russia. The Western nations including the US and Europe have come to grudgingly accept and respect, if not applaud, Indias approach to the conflict. India has continued to maintain amicable relations with Ukraine by supplying it with humanitarian aid including medical supplies and equipment. The increasing camaraderie between Russia and China and the increasing emergence of Russia as a subordinate partner of China could force India to reassess its relations with Russia.

Europe

Indias relations with European nations including the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Portugal and several others have shown a strong uptick. India also resumed negotiations for FTAs on Trade, Investment and Geographical Indications with the European Union in May 2021.

Outreach to Indian diaspora, smaller countries

One of the most important policies is reaching out to the Indian diaspora in different parts of the world. Prime Minister Modi (and his ministers) have spoken to huge, enthusiastic crowds in all parts of the world. The Indian diaspora has been transformed into a vibrant catalyst for economic growth of India.

India has reached out to many relatively smaller countries around the globe including Pacific Island nations, in Africa, Europe, Latin America etc. to strengthen bilateral political and economic ties. India decided to open new embassies in 18 African countries and several more to expand Indias footprint.

On the multilateral front, India successfully launched the International Solar Alliance(ISA) and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure Initiative. More than 100 countries have joined the ISA.

Indias Act East Policy and its enhanced engagement with Central Asia, Nordic states, Republic of Korea are yielding positive results.

Relations with China

In the first few years of his tenure, Prime Minister Modi made every effort to have a warm relationship with China. These attempts however received a rude shock, first with the standoff in Doklam in 201 and then with the clash in Galwan in June 2020. India has made it clear that relations will not be restored to normalcy unless the status quo ante of April 2020 is restored. India has also taken several measures to dilute its economic engagement with China with mixed results.

Conclusion

The bold, courageous and visionary leadership of Prime Minister Modi has helped the country to deftly navigate the myriad challenges confronting it and to effectively leverage the huge opportunities available to promote Indias political, security, strategic and economic interests.

Over the last nine years, the United States has emerged as the most significant partner for India and China its most formidable challenge. The success of Prime Minister Modis and Indias foreign policy in the coming years will depend on how effectively India is able to expand and deepen its multi-faceted relations with the US and other partners and safeguard and protect its interests and concerns with China.

The writer is executive council member, Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, president, Institute of Global Studies, Distinguished Fellow, Ananta Aspen Centre, and former Ambassador of India to Kazakhstan, Sweden and Latvia. The views expressed are personal.

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A clip of a BBC interview of Twitter owner Elon Musk went viral recently. The BBC interviewer confronted Musk with what he called the rise of hateful content on Twitter since its takeover. When Musk asked the BBC journalist to give specific examples of hateful content, the unprepared but pretentious journalist started blubbering and waffling. He was unable to give a single instance in support of what he was asserting. In that brief 2-minute clip, Musk effortlessly demolished the virtue-signalling, woke journalism that has captured and captivated Western liberal (actually it is utterly ill-liberal and ignorant) media. In the process, Musk exposed the pernicious stereotypes that (ill)liberal Western media peddles, and the fallacious, agenda driven narratives it manufactures. This takedown of BBC resonated in India which has been facing a relentless campaign of demonisation of the Modi government based mostly on half-truths, insinuations and innuendos.

Since 2014, the (ill)liberal ecosystem in the West has portrayed India as a country where there has been a backsliding of democracy, increase in authoritarianism, attack on civil liberties, where the media has been chained and muzzled, the Opposition has been victimised and marginalised and where minorities are under siege. The Western media went into an overdrive after a court-convicted Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi on charges of defamation. The conviction led to an automatic disqualification under the prevailing law. But in the narrative peddled by the Western ill-liberal media, Rahul Gandhi was convicted and disqualified by the Indian prime minister, and not by a court of law. That Rahul Gandhi got relief from the same court a few days later was conveniently ignored by the same Western media that had gone ballistic over the conviction. None of the reporters filing stories in Western media outfits bothered to go into the details of the case and the fact that it was taken rather lightly by Rahul Gandhi and his legal team.

This was hardly surprising. In 2019 the Western media outfits went berserk after Parliament passed the CAA law fast-tracking Indian citizenship for persecuted religious minorities in Afghanistan, Pakistan and Bangladesh. The narrative that these Western Goebbelsian journalists manufactured was that it was a law depriving Indian Muslims of their citizenship. Hardly anyone of these self-proclaimed journalists had read the law, much less understood it. And yet, they held forth on it and painted India in lurid colours, lamenting the death of secular India, the rise of majoritarianism, the marginalisation of minorities, blah blah blah.

That many Western countries had similar laws was completely glossed over. That non-Muslim religious minorities were subjected to horrific and systematic state sponsored persecution forcing them to flee to India was also ignored. The focus was only on targeting the Modi government and portraying it as the undertaker of Indian democracy and secularism. In a way the Western media coverage of India since 2014 is the 21st century equivalent of the old adage of the Wild West  give a dog a bad name and hang it. This is exactly what much of the (ill)liberal Western media has been assiduously trying to do since Modi became Prime Minister of India.

The Western (ill)liberals have a visceral dislike, even hatred, for the Modi government which is reflected in how they write about it and cover it in the media. There is of course the usual stereotyping by unfailingly adding the appellation Right Wing Hindu nationalist every time they write about the Modi government. On the face of it, such a label is a tool for dumbing down things for Western audiences. But there is also a sinister design at play. Such dumbed down labels are an excellent propaganda tool because these are easily digested by the target audiences. The fact is that when the Western media uses the label of Right-wing Hindu nationalist, it is as a pejorative to demonise not just Indian nationalism but also the Hindu community. This despite the fact that Indian nationalism is vastly different from Western nationalism. Even what goes for Right-wing in India has absolutely nothing in common with the traditional Right-wing in the West. But since it is a dumbed down description for dumb audiences for purposes of creating a negative perception, it is serving its purpose.

Of course, such labelling is reserved for countries like India or for political groups and movements that the Western media has picked up as a hate object. Similar parties or leaders in Western countries are not labelled similarly  the LDP isnt called Right-wing Shinto Nationalist, the CDU in Germany isnt called Right-wing Christian nationalist. But when it is India, then even popularity of a dress like sari becomes a sign of growing Hindu nationalism; an article on the massive impact of digital payments has to have a reference to Hindu Nationalist government; a report on infrastructure development is not complete until Hindu nationalist government is not mentioned; a piece on food choices and changing tastes must refer to Hindu nationalist government.

That things have reached rather ridiculous levels is apparent. Part of the problem is of course the rather dumb and clueless Western journalists who parachute into India and write about it without ever understanding the place, its complexities, the nuances, its layers. Compounding their ignorance is the fact that much of their information and understanding of India comes from an echo chamber which feeds into the stereotypes they have pre-formed in their small and jaundiced minds. The Indian writers they commission also conform to the world view of their paymasters. In such a setting, any and every alternate view point is immediately cancelled. Things have become so ludicrous that it is fine for the New York Times to carry a piece written by an UN-designated international terrorist but heavens fall and the op-ed editor can lose her job because the same newspaper carries an article by a US Congressman who had been cancelled by the newsroom lynch mob.

An arrest of a politician in India is the death of democracy and snuffing out of all Opposition, but the arrest of a former president who is the main challenger in the presidential elections is perfectly legitimate; crackdown on a protest in Canada by imposing emergency and seizing/freezing accounts of protestors is kosher, but a crackdown on a similar protest in India is the crushing of dissent and death of democracy; arrests of meme makers in the US is justified because they spread fake news, but arrests of journalists and social media influencers in India on the same charges is a miscarriage of justice, the suppression of free speech, etc; a police crackdown on protestors in France will never raise cries of democracy in peril, but a similar crackdown in India is always use of brute force by a fascist government; the Indian media is dismissed as being pliable and compromised to the government, but the Western (ill)liberal media that covers up politically inconvenient stories or spins news in favour of the government of the day is free and independent and not susceptible to any pressure. The moment these things are pointed out, the response is standard: dont indulge in whataboutery. This word is the only defence of the ill-liberal liberals when their hypocrisy is pointed out.

The anti-India, anti-Hindu tirade in Western media is primarily driven by the sanctimonious ill-liberal liberals whose latent racism is reflected in their desire to keep bearing the white mans burden. What is galling is their sneering arrogance and superciliousness where they think they know how Indians should live their lives, vote, dress, what cultural and social mores they should follow, how the judicial system should work, etc. Their racist minds cannot fathom that Indians have their own agency and can decide things for themselves. They cant handle the fact that India doesnt need woke Westerners who are still trying to figure out their genders to tell Indians what is good for them. They cannot deal with dark-skinned Indians pushing back and not swallowing everything that is being fed to them by the West.

Paradoxically, the so-called liberal white folk are also utterly intolerant of ideas that conflict with theirs. These are the people who have legitimised the cancel culture to shut down alternate viewpoints. Perhaps what these liberal White folk want to see is an India that is a dark-skinned clone of the West, albeit one that is servile and subservient. But India is not the West. Indians are not Americans or British or French or Germans. Indians have their own history, culture, civilisation (a wounded and battered one which has survived and is now rediscovering, rejuvenating, even reasserting, itself). While Indians are and always have been open to absorbing influences from abroad, what Indians will never become is clones of the West.

Apart from the racist angle, there is the religious angle driving the anti-India campaign. In the West, right-wing Christian groups  the evangelicals in particular  are trying to harvest souls in India. Any push back leads to cries of religious intolerance which are then amplified by the liberal and progressive media houses. Making an alliance with them are the Islamists  organisations like the IAMC  which carry out their own propaganda campaigns to sully Indias image. These outfits are linked to countries like Pakistan and Turkey which are in the forefront of drumming up support against India. Another dimension of India being in the cross-hairs is that it is part of the ideological battles being fought in Western societies between the loony left liberals and the conservatives. Since this is seen as a global conflict for ideological dominance, any government or political party/movement that is on the other side of this ideological divide is fair game and subject to a campaign of calumny.

Finally, there is also good, old fashioned geo-politics at work. At a time when the Western world is in a conflict with Russia, and is on the verge of a new Cold War with China, it wants its partners to be on the same page on every move it makes against its adversaries. India however has taken a more balanced stand on Russia. While India has not endorsed Russian aggression, she has also not stopped from engaging Russia. The fact that India has ramped up purchases of Russian oil has been used by the Western media to beat up India. But the reality is that India has brought some semblance of stability in global oil prices and supplies by picking up Russian oil, some of which it is selling in Western markets that have imposed an embargo on direct purchases from Russia.

The biased and jaundiced portrayal of India in the Western media has started to raise serious questions on its credibility and reliability as a source of information. After all, if coverage of India is so inaccurate, patently biased and flawed and agenda-driven, surely the same must be happening on Western media coverage of Russia, Middle-East, Africa and even China. In any case, Western preachiness and hectoring is getting increasingly tiresome. It is both annoying and offensive especially since there is a huge gap in what the West preaches and what it practises.

The thing is that if the Western media wants to only focus on what they perceive as negative trends in India then the same sort of negativity can be spread about the West in India. To be sure, India is not perfect. But then neither is the West which is so quick to pass judgement and sermonise to others. Just like there are huge problems and issues in India, there are serious problems in the West where public discourse, public spaces and even universities have become hotbeds of toxic narratives which are also reflected in their politics and policies. India has a lot in common with the West and it is a mutually beneficial relationship. But this relationship cannot be sustained without mutual respect and understanding. Nor can it be strengthened without appreciating cultural and other differences and learning to move forward despite them. But it seems that the Western media is hell bent on alienating India and making it an enemy.

The writer is Senior Fellow, Observer Research Foundation. Views expressed are personal.

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Washington: In a series of raids conducted at over 20 locations, police in California have made 17 arrests in relation to a string of shootings in Gurdwaras in Stockton, Sacramento, and other cities. They have also seized weapons like an AK-47, handguns, and at least one machine gun, said the State Attorney General.

According to an announcement made by California Attorney General Rob Bonta, Yuba City Police Chief Brian Baker, and Sutter County District Attorney Jennifer Dupr, the 17 felony arrests  mostly of members of the local Sikh community  were made on Sunday during a massive operation that involved agents executing search warrants at 20 locations in Northern California.

At a news conference Dupr, said, two of the people arrested are mafia members who are wanted on a number of murders in India.

According to the California Attorney General, the detained individuals are members of opposing criminal organisations that are thought to be behind a number of shootings and violent crimes in the counties of Sutter, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Solano, Yolo, and Merced, including five attempted murders.

Members of these groups were allegedly involved in a mass shooting at a Stockton Sikh temple which took place on 27 August, 2022, and a shooting at a Sacramento Sikh temple on 23 March, 2023.

During the investigation, law enforcement was able to prevent two additional shootings from occurring, a press release said.

Today, California is safer thanks to collaboration, determination, and swift action by DOJ agents and our law enforcement partners in Sutter County, said California Attorney General Rob Bonta.

No family should ever have to worry about drive-by shootings or other forms of gun violence in the neighbourhoods where their children live and play. As a result of this joint law enforcement effort, were taking guns off the street and putting suspected gang members and their associates behind bars, he said.

An investigation of this magnitude requires a tremendous amount of time and effort, and especially a lot of personnel, said Sutter County District Attorney General Jennifer Dupr.

With inputs from agencies

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New Delhi: Taiwans semi-official Central News Agency has reported that the country has welcomed 200 military advisers from the United States to sites throughout Taiwan in order to implement ongoing reforms to the islands armed services.

According to CNA, the instructors were deployed to support training at boot camps and reserve units before Taiwans mandatory military service is set to increase from four to twelve months starting in 2024.

Late last year, as Taipei took significant steps to prepare itself for Beijings military ambitions in the ensuing ten years, President Tsai Ing-wen declared the change in policy.

Despite having been in power for seven decades, Chinas Communist Party authorities have not yet taken control of the island that it claims as part of its territory.

China has resisted continued U.S.-Taiwan defence relations and reacts forcefully to any political support for the island that would jeopardise Beijings position since Washington moved official diplomatic recognition from Taipei to Beijing in 1979.

In October 2021, Tsai, whose second term as president ends in May 2019, admitted for the first time the existence of American military advisers in Taiwan, but said that their numbers werent as many as people thought.

Her defence minister, Chiu Kuo-cheng, stated shortly after that military exchanges between the United States and Taiwan did not indicate that American forces were currently stationed in Taiwan.

More than half of the islands active service members are soldiers in Taiwans army, reports said.

Without going into any detail, Taiwans Defense Ministry spokesperson Sun Li-fang stated at a press conference the same day that it welcomes allied military training to enhance the nations armed forces.

The Wall Street Journal and Reuters reported separately in February that the U.S. Department of Defense intended to send between 100 and 200 troops to Taiwan in the coming months, the largest such deployment in almost fifty years.

188,000 volunteers make up the majority of Taiwans military, which also includes 10% of conscripts at any given moment and excludes 2.3 million officially registered reservists.

The islands defenders would still be outnumbered by Chinas 2 million-strong standing army despite the estimated 70,000 additional service members that the planned conscription reform may bring starting in 2027.

Although most Americans support some level of military assistance in the case of a Chinese invasion across the Taiwan Strait, Taiwan is not a treaty ally of the United States.

According to the Taiwan Relations Act of 1979, Washington has served as Taipeis primary source of arms and training for more than 40 years.

A battalion of roughly 500 soldiers was anticipated to travel to the United States for training this year under the aegis of the TRA, CNA reported in February.

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin claimed last month that Taiwanese troops were also being trained by unknown National Guard groups.

According to a quarterly report released in March by the Pentagons Defense Manpower Data Center, at least 27 American service members were still on active duty in Taiwan as of late December.

The number has stayed relatively stable in recent years, and the majority of the group are affiliated with the American Institute in Taiwan, which serves as the de facto U.S. embassy in Taipei.

Usually, data on classified troops as well as temporary and emergency deployments are excluded from the figures.

The long-overdue defence reforms in Taiwan have been sped up by Russias invasion of Ukraine. The continuous confrontation has made the likelihood of a cross-strait war evident to the Taiwanese population.

Although Austin and other U.S. officials do not foresee an invasion in the near future, they have cautioned that an accident may occur as China increases its air force and navy maneuvers over the island.

One crucial component of a coordinated U.S.-led strategy to assist Taipei in strengthening deterrence and altering Beijings long-term calculations is more training for Taiwans armed forces.

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Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google and Alphabet, stated on Sunday that artificial intelligence (AI) would eventually affect every product of every company, warning of the threats that the technology poses for job sectors and the spread of disinformation. Pichai also called AI a critical technology that would impact national security in the future.

We need to adapt as a society for it, Pichai told CBS. He also stated that employee development and sustainability will be jeopardised for businesses that rely on knowledge workers, such as authors, accountants, and even software engineers.

Googles bet on Bard chatbot

Googles AI chatbot, Bard, was released last month. This came after the online premiere of OpenAIs ChatGPT in 2022, which gained a lot of attention for its capacity to generate academic papers and write dense and detailed stretches of writing using human-like language, among other things.

However, AI chatbots, notably ChatGPT, have detractors. It was outlawed in Italy earlier this month because to possible privacy issues, and tech titans Elon Musk and Steve Wozniak, as well as hundreds of academics, urged for a halt to AI trials. The technology should be rigorously audited and overseen by independent outside experts, according to a joint open letter signed by Musk and Wozniak.

AI can be very dangerous

Pichai, too, warned of the dangers of artificial intelligence. He predicted that the proliferation of bogus news, videos, and photos would be much larger and could cause harm. Google has previously issued an online paper pushing for technology control to guarantee that it align[s] with human values, including morality.

Its not for a company to decide, he told CBS. This is why I believe the creation of this should include not just engineers, but also social scientists, ethicists, philosophers, and others. According to Pichai, artificial intelligence is still a black box that humans dont fully understand.

Pichai still optimistic about AI

Pichai is optimistic about the future, noting that AI can support people and aid in smart work  a concept that entails finding efficient methods to finish tasks on time and without sacrificing quality.

For example, you could be a radiologist, and in five to ten years, youll have an AI collaborator with you, Pichai explains. When you get in the morning and have a hundred items to go through, it may say, These are the most critical situations you need to look at first.'

The need to regulate AI

When questioned about laws on AI and the need to regulate it, the Google CEO stated that there may come a day when countries may need to join AI treaties comparable to the Non-proliferation Treaty on Nuclear Weapons (NPT) to prevent technology misuse.

He also addressed Googles loss in the race to Microsoft and OpenAI with their generative AI technologies, Bing Chat and ChatGPT, respectively. One of the things we need to be careful about with AI is avoiding what I call race conditions, where people working on it across companies get so caught up in who is first, that we lose sight of the potential pitfalls and downsides to it, Pichai adds.

However, the Google CEO also applauded the OpenAI team for developing ChatGPT and preparing the world for the technology. Even OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has pushed for government oversight and standards to manage AI.

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Bali: Indonesia is going out of its way to ensure that it makes the most out of the tourism industry. The country is mulling over a plan to levy taxes on travellers who visit Bali.

The move, which has been viewed as a major hurdle for holidaymakers, comes after authorities launched a crackdown on unruly travellers.

Indonesias Tourism Ministry said that the tax would help raise funds for carrying out conservation measures in the country including mangrove and coral reef replanting.

Sandiaga Uno, the travel minister, said that conservation practices would have a positive impact on the local environment.

Nia Niscaya, a deputy for strategic policy at the ministry, said that Indonesia is following in the footsteps of Thailand to impose restrictions on tourists.

Bali bans motorbikes for tourists

Last month, Bali governor Wayan Koster announced his plans to crack down on foreign tourists who are employed illegally in the country.

These measures included a ban on motorbikes for tourists.

Koster added that the rule would apply to foreign tourists who ride motorcycles without valid paperwork and helmets or drive recklessly using fake Indonesian ID cards.

New sex laws that could potentially hurt tourism

Last year, the government in Indonesia introduced and passed a controversial aimed at banning cohabitation and sex outside banning.

According to CNN, the law will not only apply to residents but also to foreign nationals in the country.

Putu Winastra, chairman of the countrys largest tourism group, the Association of The Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies (ASITA), said, From our point of view as tourism industry players, this law will be very counterproductive for the tourism industry in Bali  particularly the chapters about sex and marriage.

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Washington, United States: The White House harshly criticised Brazil on Monday after its president, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, said that the United States was promoting conflict in Ukraine while visiting China.

In this case, Brazil is parroting Russian and Chinese propaganda without at all looking at the facts, National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters.

Lula said Saturday during a visit to Beijing, where he met Chinese leader Xi Jinping, that the United States needs to stop encouraging war and start talking about peace. The European Union needs to start talking about peace.

This echoed a line frequently used by Moscow and Beijing, which blame the West for the war, which began in February 2022 when Russian forces poured into Ukraine in an attempt to overthrow the democratically elected government and annexe swaths of the pro-Western country.

Brazil has not joined Western nations in imposing sanctions on Russia and has refused requests to supply ammunition to Ukraine.

On Monday, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said in Brazil, at the start of a Latin America tour, that Russia is grateful to our Brazilian friends for their clear understanding of the genesis of the situation (in Ukraine).

Veteran leftist Lula is keen to bolster Brazils bid to be a non-aligned peacemaker.

But Kirby said Lulas message on the war was deeply problematic.

Washington doesnt have any objection to any country that wants to try to bring an end to the war, he said.

Obviously we want the war to end, Kirby said. That could happen right now, today, if Mr (Russian President Vladimir) Putin would stop attacking Ukraine and pull its troops out.

The most recent comments by Brazil that Ukraine should consider formally ceding Crimea as a peace concession is simply misguided, especially for a country like Brazil that has voted to uphold the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity (at the UN).

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Beijing: China foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin on Tuesday disputed U.S. claims of a Chinese secret police station in New York.

China maintains a policy of non-interference in other countries and these alleged police stations do not exist, Wang told a regular news briefing.

U.S. federal agents arrested two New York residents for allegedly operating a Chinese secret police station in the Chinatown district of Manhattan on Monday in what prosecutors said was part of a crackdown on Beijings alleged targeting of dissidents.

The police station was allegedly operated by Lu Jianwang (61) and Chen Jinping (59). Both are American citizens and face charges of conspiring to act as agents for China and obstruction of justice.

According to the US Justice Department, Lu and Chen set up the first overseas police station in the US on behalf of Chinas Ministry of Public Security in early 2022. The police station was shut down in autumn after those involved became aware of the FBI probe. The men have confessed that they deleted correspondence with an official from the Chinese ministry after they discovered they were being investigated.

Breon Peace, the US attorney for the Eastern District of New York, said the men had engaged in transnational repression targeting members of the Chinese diaspora community in New York City and elsewhere in the United States at the behest of Beijing, according to a report in Al Jazeera.

The secret outpost at the very least provided Chinese citizens with basic Chinese government services like helping them renew their Chinese drivers licences but it served a more sinister purpose, say reports.

A Chinese national police official directed one of the two defendants to help track a Chinese-origin pro-democracy activist in California, Al Jazeera reports. In other words, the Chinese national police appear to have been using the station to track a US resident on US soil, said Peace.

This is a blatant violation of our national sovereignty, Michael Driscoll, the head of New Yorks FBI field office, said at a news conference.

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New Delhi: After the discovery of a Chinese police station covertly running in New York, all eyes are on how many more such police stations, China has established in foreign countries.

Reports say that Beijing has more than 100 overseas police stations set up in foreign countries, allegedly to keep tabs, harass and sometimes recover Chinese citizens living abroad in exile.

According to a recent report, Beijing has established more than 100 so-called overseas police stations around the world to keep tabs on, harass, and in some cases repatriate Chinese nationals living in exile.

In order to set up a strong presence, Beijing has reportedly used bilateral security agreements with nations in Europe and Africa, reports say.

A human rights advocacy group based in Madrid named Safeguard Defenders claimed in September that there were 54 such stations and now, according to its recent reports named Patrol and Persuade, it has discovered evidence of 48 new police stations abroad.

The report examines the scope of the network and the role that joint law enforcement efforts between China and several European countries, such as Italy, Croatia, Serbia, and Romania, have played in launching a wider expansion of Chinese overseas stations than was previously known.

The group has accused Chinese undercover officers looking after one such police station in Paris of allegedly tortured a Chinese citizen so much so that he had to return back to China.

This is in addition to an earlier admission that two more Chinese exiles have been forcibly returned from Europe  one in Serbia and the other in Spain.

Four distinct police jurisdictions of Chinas Ministry of Public Security have been identified by Safeguard Defenders, which searches open-source, official Chinese documents for evidence of alleged human rights violations.

These jurisdictions are allegedly active across at least 53 countries, covering all four corners of the world, and are ostensibly there to assist expatriates from those regions of China with their needs abroad.

How do these stations operate?

Beijing has denied operating unregistered police units outside of its borders. In a statement to CNN in November, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said: We hope that relevant parties avoid publicising it to create problems. It is unacceptable to use this to defame China.

China has argued that the buildings are actually administrative hubs designed to assist Chinese expats with duties like renewing their drivers licences.

The Covid-19 pandemic had left many residents locked down in other nations and locked out of China, unable to renew documentation, according to China, which also claimed the offices were a response to this.

The overseas stations were staffed by volunteers, according to Chinas foreign affairs ministry, which responded to a query from CNN last month over the Safeguard Defenders first accusations.

However, according to the organisations most recent study, one police network it looked at had 135 employees working at its initial 21 stations.

The company also found a worker hired at a foreign station in Stockholm a three-year contract.

The Safeguard Defenders study alleges that Chinas overseas offices predate the pandemic by several years. Undeclared consular actions outside of a nations official diplomatic missions are exceedingly unusual and unlawful, unless a host government has granted their explicit agreement.

Their allegations have sparked inquiries in at least 13 different nations so far and stoked a diplomatic spat between China and countries like Canada, which has a sizable Chinese diaspora.

Is China alone?

The employment of extrajudicial methods to reach targets for law enforcement or for the purposes of political repression abroad has been attributed to more than only China, a superpower.

For instance, Russia has twice been charged of using radioactive and chemical weapons on British soil to try to kill its former spies. Russia has always refuted these accusations.

After 9/11, the CIA in the United States faced criticism for the extraordinary rendition of terrorism suspects from the streets of Italy to Guantanamo Bay.

But as Chinas third term under leader Xi Jinping begins, the idea of widespread repression of its nationals abroad comes at a crucial time for a government already dealing with domestic instability and growing discontent with the nations rigorous zero-Covid policy.

Three years after the start of Covid-19, China made a last week announcement that some of its pandemic restrictions would be loosened.

Setting up security for others or surveillance system for own?

China, the second-largest economy in the world, has grown closer to many of the nations where the suspected new police stations are located, which poses uncomfortable issues for national governments juggling business interests with national security.

Italy, which has since 2015 signed a number of bilateral security agreements with China under several regimes, has mostly remained mute during the revelations of suspected actions on its territory.

Italian police frequently patrolled alongside Chinese police between 2016 and 2018, first in Rome and Milan and then in other cities, such as Naples, where, according to Safeguard Defenders, evidence has been discovered that a video surveillance system was installed ostensibly to effectively deter crimes there.

Joint policing would lead to a wider international cooperation, exchange of information and sharing resources to combat the criminal and terrorist groups that afflict our countries, an Italian police officer told NPR in 2016.

According to the NGO, 11 Chinese police stations have been established in Italy, including ones in Prato, close to Florence, and Venice.

According to recordings published on Chinese websites, Italian police officials attended one ceremony in Rome to commemorate the opening of a new station in 2018, highlighting the tight links between the two nations police forces.

Local inquiries of one of the stations, according to a story in the Italian newspaper La Nazione earlier this year, had turned up no evidence of unlawful behaviour.

Police chiefs were recently quoted by Il Foglio as saying that the stations did not appear to be particularly concerning as they appeared to be purely bureaucratic.

Italy has not reacted to any of these claims, reports say.

Combined Police Patrol

As part of the countrys expanding strategic footprint along the course of Xi Jinpings defining foreign policy, known as the Belt and Road Initiative, China also signed such combined police patrol agreements with Croatia and Serbia between 2018 and 2019.

Chinese media said that as recently as July of this year, Chinese cops were spotted patrolling together with their Croatian counterparts on the streets of Zagreb, the countrys city.

According to a Zagreb police official Xinhua spoke with, the patrols were crucial for protecting and luring foreign tourists.

In order to deal with the inflow of Chinese tourists, Chinese officers reportedly joined Serbian officers on patrol in Belgrade in 2019. One Serbian policeman observed that the Chinese lacked the authority to make arrests.

According to Safeguard Defenders, a similar agreement with Pretoria, which had been in place for years, allowed Chinese stations to establish a foothold in South Africa and other adjacent countries.

Early traces

Nearly two decades ago, China started laying the groundwork for closer policing ties with South Africas law enforcement agencies.

Later, in collaboration with the government of South Africa, and as a result of subsequent bilateral security agreements, China established a network of what are officially called Overseas Chinese Service Centers.

The initiative unites all the communities, both South Africans and foreign citizens in South Africa, according to the Chinese consulate in Cape Town.

The framework, which the consulate noted is made up of non-profit organisations without law enforcement authority, has been actively preventing crimes against the community and reducing the number of cases since its establishment, it has been reported.

When attempting to gauge the scope of Chinas efforts to persuade some of its citizens to return to China even against their will, Safeguard Defenders stumbled upon the police networks.

According to official Chinese data, there may have been close to a quarter of a million of these individuals around the world during the time Xi has been in power.

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New Delhi: The FBI on Monday (18 April) arrested two men on charges that they helped establish a secret police station in New York City on behalf of the Chinese government, and about three dozen officers with Chinas national police force were charged with using social media to harass dissidents inside the United States, authorities said.

However, since the early part of the 20th century, the western nations have used every possible opportunity to give out sanctimonious lectures to the rest of the world about the importance of human rights, democracy and freedom of expression.

Over the last couple of decades, the NATO nations have fought wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, ostensibly to establish democracy and the primacy of human rights in those countries.

However, on several occasions, these holier-than-thou sermons by western nations have been proved to be nothing but a load of hot air. The latest proof of western hypocrisy is the presence of more than a hundred overseas Chinese police stations across the world.

According to a CNN report, China has reportedly established around 102 overseas police stations in at least 53 nations around the world that activists fear could be used to track and harass dissidents as part of the Chinese Communist Partys so-called crackdown on corruption.

Information about the outposts underscored concerns about the ruling Chinese Communist Partys influence over its citizens abroad, sometimes in ways deemed illegal by other countries, as well as the undermining of democratic institutions and the theft of economic and political secrets by bodies affiliated with the one-party state.

Spanish-based non-government group Safeguard Defenders published a report last month, called 110 Overseas. Chinese Transnational Policing Gone Wild, that focused on the foreign stations.

One of the aims of these campaigns, obviously, as it is to crack down on dissent, is to silence people, Laura Harth, a campaign director with the group, was quoted as saying by news agency AP.

So people are afraid. People that are being targeted, that have family members back in China, are afraid to speak out.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning has claimed that China wasnt doing anything wrong.

Chinese public security authorities strictly observe the international law and fully respect the judicial sovereignty of other countries, Mao said.

Many of the facilities appeared to have links to the Fuzhou and Qingtian areas, where many overseas Chinese originate.

The Irish government said it told China to close a Fuzhou Police Overseas Service Station operating in Dublin. The Department of Foreign Affairs said Chinese authorities did not make an advance request to set up the office.

Actions of all foreign states on Irish territory must be in compliance with international law and domestic law requirements, the Irish government said, noting why it had told the Chinese Embassy that the office should close and cease operations.

The Chinese Embassy has now stated that the activities of the office have ceased, it said.

The Dutch government said this week it was looking into whether two such police stations  one a virtual office in Amsterdam and the other at a physical address in Rotterdam  were established in the Netherlands.

We are investigating the activities of these so-called police centers. Once there is more clarity on the matter, we will decide on appropriate action, the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement sent to the AP. We have not been informed about these centers via diplomatic channels.

Another Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Wang Wenbin, described the foreign outposts identified by Safeguard Defenders as service stations for Chinese people who are abroad and in need of help with, for instance, renewing their drivers licenses.

Wang added that China also has cracked down on what he called transnational crimes but said the operation was conducted in line with international law.

In its report, Safeguard Defenders reproduced Chinese media accounts about people suspected of alleged crimes in China being interrogated by video link from some of the locations in other countries that Beijing allegedly did not declare to other governments.

In one instance, according to the group, a Chinese man accused of environmental crimes was persuaded in 2020 to return from Madrid to Qingtian, in Zhejiang province, where he turned himself in to authorities.

Visits by The Associated Press to some of the locations identified by Safeguard Defenders in Rome, Madrid and Barcelona found, respectively, a massage parlor, the Spanish headquarters of an association of citizens from Qingtian and a firm providing legal translation services. There was no indication of police stations or other activity directly related to the Chinese government.

A worker at the Barcelona translation company confirmed to the AP that a Fuzhou Police Overseas Service Station operated on the premises for a few weeks this year in a test-drive capacity.

The employee, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak to journalists, the press, said the police service center offered document renewal services to Fuzhou citizens living in the Barcelona region who could not return to China due to pandemic travel restrictions and the high cost of flights.

According to Safeguard Defenders, China claims 230,000 suspects of fraud were persuaded to return to China from April 2021 to July 2022.

These operations eschew official bilateral police and judicial cooperation and violate the international rule of law, and may violate the territorial integrity of third countries involved in setting up a parallel policing mechanism using illegal methods, its report said.

The European Unions executive arm said Thursday it was up to member countries to investigate such allegations since it would be a matter of national sovereignty.

A Hungarian opposition lawmaker claimed this month to have discovered two sites in Budapest where Chinese overseas police stations operated without the knowledge of the countrys Interior Ministry.

The lawmaker, Marton Tompos, said one of the two locations in Hungarys capital had a sign that said Qingtian Overseas Police Station. Tompos said he was unable to contact anyone affiliated with the sites and that when he visited again days later, the sign had been removed.

The Hungarian Interior Ministry did not immediately respond to AP questions on the matter.

Three informal Chinese police stations are operating in Portugal, Safeguard Defenders reported. Portuguese authorities did not immediately reply to AP questions about the claim.

A Portuguese TV report said one of the venues, located in an industrial complex in northern Portugal, appeared to be a car shop operated by a Chinese man. The man denied any connection with the Chinese government, though broadcaster S.I.C. Noticias showed him in a video promoting the Beijing Winter Olympics and said he heads a local association that helps Chinese immigrants.

In Tanzania, both police and the Chinese Embassy have denied the presence of a Chinese-run police station in the countrys commercial hub and former capital, Dar es Salaam, after the BBC reported on it last week.

You are fabricating stories, the embassy tweeted, calling the report an example of disinformation aimed at dividing China-Africa relations. A police spokesman sent the AP a copy of Chinas denial in response to questions Thursday.

In Lesotho, a kingdom in southern Africa, national police Senior Superintendent Mpiti Mopeli also denied the existence of any Chinese law enforcement activities. He said such operations would be illegal as any form of policing in Lesotho is conducted by local authorities.

Over his decade in power, Chinese President Xi Jinping has pushed a relentless anti-corruption drive that has seen tens of millions of Communist Party cadres investigated and expanded overseas via a pair of campaigns known as Sky Net and Fox Hunt. Both are tasked with locating allegedly corrupt officials who have fled abroad and convincing them to return to China with their stolen state assets.

Since China began opening up in the 1980s, corruption has been a major problem among those enjoying access to state funds and resources with few safeguards in place, and cash was often squirreled away abroad, particularly in the US and other countries without extradition treaties with China.

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Beijing: China may be gearing up to invade and capture Taiwan, but for others it is ready to play the peacemaker. Days after presenting a 12-point plan to end Russia-Ukraine war, Beijing has now said it is ready to broker peace between embattled Israel and Palestine.

Chinas Foreign Minister Qin Gang had separate phone calls with his Israeli and Palestinian Authority counterparts, and expressed concerns over the intensifying conflict between the two sides. He said the solution was to resume peace negotiations.

Two-state solution

Qin told Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen that China encouraged both the sides to show political courage and take steps to resume peace talks.

He further said that China is ready to provide convenience for this.

Qin told Cohen that the top priority was to control the situation and restrict it from escalating.

In his conversation with Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad Al-Maliki, the Chinese minister said Beijing was willing to play an active role in the resumption of peace talks in one of the worlds longest-running conflicts.

Qin further told Maliki that China is concerned about the current tension between Israel and Palestine, and the current top priority is to bring the situation under control and prevent the conflict from escalating or even getting out of control.

In both calls Qin emphasised Chinas push for peace talks on the basis of implementing a two-state solution, a report by Xinhua said.

Israel, Palestine welcome Chinas efforts

According to a statement by the Chinese foreign ministry, the Palestinian foreign minister told Qin that he welcomed all efforts by China, and that Beijing had proved to be a responsible major power with the Iran-Saudi Arabia deal.

Meanwhile, Cohen thanked Qin for Chinas efforts in the conflict. He, however, said that it seemed difficult to resolve this issue in the short term.

Israel attaches great importance to Chinas influence, pays close attention to the Iranian nuclear issue, and expects China to play a positive role, the Chinese foreign ministry quoted Cohen as saying.

During the conversation with Israel and Palestine ministers, Qin also said that China had always supported the strategic autonomy of Middle Eastern countries and was willing to continue contributing to peace and stability in the region.

Israel-Palestine tensions

Tensions between Israel and Palestine increased over the recent months after Israeli forces stepped up military raids in the West Bank.

Earlier this month, clashes were reported at the al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem that drew condemnation from Arab countries across the region. Saudi Arabia, with whom Israel hopes to normalise ties, said Israels storming of al-Aqsa undermined peace efforts.

US-brokered peace talks aimed at establishing a Palestinian state in the West Bank, East Jerusalem and Gaza  territories Israel captured in the 1967 war  have stalled for since 2014 and show no sign of reviving.

According to a report Palestinian news agency Wafa, China supports Palestines full membership in the United Nations and calls for the establishment of an independent and fully sovereign Palestinian state.

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San Francisco: Billionaire Elon Musk said he will launch an artificial intelligence (AI) platform that he calls TruthGPT, in an apparent challenge to ChatGPT, the popular chatbot from OpenAI.

Im going to start something which I call TruthGPT, or a maximum truth-seeking AI that tries to understand the nature of the universe, Musk said in an interview with Fox News Channels Tucker Carlson to be aired later on Monday.

And I think this might be the best path to safety, in the sense that an AI that cares about understanding the universe, it is unlikely to annihilate humans because we are an interesting part of the universe, he said, according to some excerpts of the interview.

Musk did not immediately respond to Reuters request for comment.

Musk has been poaching AI researchers from Alphabet Incs Google to launch a startup to rival OpenAI, people familiar with the matter told Reuters.

Musk last month registered a firm named X.AI Corp, incorporated in Nevada, according to a state filing. The firm listed Musk as the sole director and Jared Birchall, the managing director of Musks family office, as a secretary.

Civilizational destruction

The move came even after Musk and a group of artificial intelligence experts and industry executives called for a six-month pause in developing systems more powerful than OpenAIs newly launched GPT-4, citing potential risks to society.

Musk also reiterated his warnings about AI during the interview with Carlson, saying AI is more dangerous than, say, mismanaged aircraft design or production maintenance or bad car production according to the excerpts.

It has the potential of civilizational destruction, he said.

He tweeted over the weekend that he had met with former U.S. President Barack Obama when he was president and told him that Washington needed to encourage AI regulation.

Musk co-founded OpenAI in 2015, but he stepped down from the companys board in 2018. In 2019, he tweeted that he left OpenAI because he had to focus on Tesla and SpaceX.

He also tweeted at that time that other reasons for his departure from OpenAI were, Tesla was competing for some of the same people as OpenAI & I didnt agree with some of what OpenAI team wanted to do.

Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has also become CEO of Twitter, a social media platform he bought for $44 billion last year.

In January, Microsoft Corp announced a further multi-billion dollar investment in OpenAI, intensifying competition with rival Google and fueling the race to attract AI funding in Silicon Valley.

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New Delhi: The Rockwell B1 Lancer of the US Air Force (USAF) has participated in the ongoing Exercise Cope India 2023 which started on April 13.

According to a statement on social media platform Twitter by the Indian Air Force (IAF), the Rockwell B1 Lancer, also known as Bone used by the US Air Force (USAF) participated in Exercise Cope India 2023 along with other fighter aircraft.

The USAFs Strategic Swingwing over the old home of IAF Swing Wings. The Bone Rockwell B1 Lancer of the @usairforce flying with other participating fighter aircraft during the ongoing #ExCopeIndia 23, the Indian Air Force said in its statement on Twitter.

Air Force Bases Arjan Singh (Panagarh), Kalaikunda, and Agra hosted the beginning of Exercise Cope India 23, a bilateral air exercise between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the United States Air Force (USAF), on April 10.

The Ministry of Defence said in a statement that Exercise Cope India 2023 aims to improve mutual understanding between the IAF and the UASF and share their best practises.

Both sides deployed the C-130J and C-17 aircraft during the exercises first phase, with the USAF flying an MC-130J. The aircrew from the Japanese Air Self Defence Force participated in the exercise as observers.

At Air Force Station Kalaikunda, the next round of Exercise Cope India 23 began on April 13. B1B bombers from the United States Air Force (USAF) participated in the exercise phase. The USAFs F-15 fighter jets will subsequently join the drill.

According to the press release, the Indian Air Force (IAF) component would consist of fighter aircraft such the Su-30 MKI, Rafale, Tejas, and Jaguar. Aerial rocket launchers, an Airborne Warning and Control system, and Airborne Early Warning and Control aircraft of the IAF will support the exercise.

Like the air mobility component of the Ex Cope-India -23, this phase will also help enhance professional relations between the two air forces, while sharing the best practices between them. Personnel from the Japanese Air Self Defence Force will also observe the exercise and interact with the two participating air forces, the Defence Ministry said in its statement.

(With agency inputs)

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The FBI on Monday arrested two men on charges that they helped establish a secret police station in New York City on behalf of the Chinese government, and about three dozen officers with Chinas national police force were charged with using social media to harass dissidents inside the United States, authorities said Monday.

The cases are part of a series of Justice Department prosecutions in recent years aimed at disrupting Chinese government efforts to locate in America pro-democracy activists and others who are openly critical of Beijings policies and to suppress their speech.

One of three cases announced Monday concerns a local branch of the Chinese Ministry of Public Security that had operated inside an office building in Manhattans Chinatown neighborhood before closing last fall amid an FBI investigation. The two men who were arrested were acting under the direction and control of a Chinese government official and deleted communication with that official from their phones after learning of the FBIs probe in an apparent effort to obstruct the inquiry, according to the Justice Department.

First such arrests

Though China is believed to be operating secretive police outposts in countries around the globe, Justice Department officials said these arrests were the first of their kind anywhere in the world.

This is a blatant violation of our national sovereignty, Michael Driscoll, the head of New Yorks FBI field office, said at a news conference announcing the cases.

The men, identified as Harry Lu Jianwang, 61, of the Bronx, and Chen Jinping, 59, of Manhattan, both US citizens, were arrested at their homes on Monday morning, AP reported.

At no point did the men register with the Justice Department as agents of a foreign government, US law enforcement officials said. And though the secret police station did perform some basic services, such as helping Chinese citizens renew their Chinese drivers licenses, it also served a more sinister function, including helping the Chinese government locate a pro-democracy activist of Chinese descent living in California, officials said.

New York City is home to New Yorks finest: the NYPD, said US Attorney Breon Peace, the top federal prosecutor in Brooklyn, whose office brought the cases. We dont need or want a secret police station in our great city.

Justice Department officials in recent years have prioritized prosecutions of whats known as transnational repression, in which foreign governments work to identify, intimidate and silence dissidents in the US.

A signature case concerning China was announced in 2020, when the Justice Department charged more than a half-dozen people with working on behalf of the Chinese government in a pressure campaign aimed at coercing a New Jersey man wanted by Beijing into returning to China to face charges. In January, the Justice Department charged three men in an alleged plot that originated in Iran to kill an I Iranian American author and activist who has spoken out against human rights abuses there.

In America, the law protects all of us equally from persecution, violence and threats of violence, said David Newman, a top official in the Justice Departments national security division.

As authoritarian governments  whether the PRC, Russia, Iran, or others  become more brazen in their efforts to trample the rights and liberties that are the bedrock of our democracy, the Department of Justice will redouble its efforts to defend our democracy, our democratic institutions, and our sovereignty, Newman said, using an acronym for the Peoples Republic of China.

In a separate scheme announced Monday, the Justice Department charged 34 officers in the Ministry of Public Security with creating and using thousands of fake social media accounts on Twitter and other platforms to harass dissidents abroad.

Prosecutors say the defendants, all part of a specialized task force that worked out of a police facility in Beijing, also used social media to spread Chinese government propaganda on subjects including racial justice protests in the US, Russias war against Ukraine and human rights issues in Hong Kong. All of the defendants remain at large and are believed to be living in China.

In addition, prosecutors on Monday announced that eight Chinese government officials who are believed to be currently living in China were charged with directing an employee of a US telecommunications company to remove Chinese dissidents from the companys platform.

Jin Xinjiang, also known as Julien Jin, a former China-based Zoom executive, was among 10 people charged in an amended complaint. He was initially charged in December 2020, when authorities alleged that he tried to disrupt a series of Zoom meetings in May and June of that year that were meant to commemorate the 1989 Tiananmen Square Massacre.

At the time, Jin served as Zooms primary liaison with Chinese government law enforcement and intelligence services, regularly responding to requests by the Chinese government to terminate meetings and block users on Zooms video communications platform, authorities said.

With inputs from AP

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New Delhi: Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has accused the Awami League government of carrying out fire incidents in different markets across the country to mislead people.

According to a report in Dhaka Tribune, You (govt) have failed (to ensure safety to public life and property) as you dont monitor anything. There are fires everywhere every day. You are behind this fire, said BNP.

The government is trying to divert peoples attention from demanding a credible election and the restoration of voting rights, BNP added.

Massive fire breaks out in popular shopping centre in Bangladesh

A massive pre-dawn fire destroyed thousands of shops at a shopping centre in Dhaka on Saturday, forcing the fire service to seek the help of the military, paramilitary as well as police to extinguish the blaze, the second such incident in Bangladeshs capital this month.

A massive pre-dawn fire destroyed thousands of shops at a shopping centre in Dhaka on Saturday, forcing the fire service to seek the help of the military, paramilitary as well as police to extinguish the blaze, the second such incident in Bangladeshs capital this month.

The fire, which raged a few days after a popular clothing market was partially destroyed, began on the second floor of New SuperMarket, a shopping centre between the popular Newmarket and Dhaka College, around 5.45 am and quickly spread to other floors, Newmarket Police Station chief Shafiqul Gani Sabu, was quoted as saying by news portal bdnews24.com.

Fire service officials said there were no reports of deaths in the tragedy as the fire erupted before shops opened for the day.

The officials said 34 people, including 15 firefighters and rescue workers alongside the shop owners, fell sick as they inhaled black smoke while the rescue campaign was underway.

The injured were rushed to specialised Sheikh Hasina Burn Institute and Dhaka Medical College Hospital where doctors said the conditions of at least two of them were critical.

The fire has largely come under control within three hours after it broke out

We are carrying out the rescue campaign our priority is to save the shops as much as possible, fire service chief Brigadier General Mohammad Moinuddin said.

Mr Moinuddin, however, noted that flammable objects were there in some shops as consumer items which quickened the spread of the fire in the three-storey market and wiped out over 100 shops.

He said the cause of the fire could not be ascertained immediately but did not rule out possibilities of sabotage and urged the police and intelligence agencies to investigate whether a recent series of fire incidents were an outcome of any orchestrated plot.

PM Sheikh Hasina orders investigation

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, meanwhile, ordered a thorough investigation to find if any plot was hatched to create unrest ahead of elections slated for early next year.

Building fires and explosions caused by leaking gas cylinders, faulty air conditioners and bad electrical wiring are frequent in Bangladesh.

Saturdays fire broke out just 11 days after a pre-dawn blaze in a nearly identical manner broke out and burned several thousand shops at Old Dhakas Bangabazar clothing market.

The Bangabazar fire devastated some 5,000 shops weeks ahead of the Muslim festival of Eid since efforts of hundreds of firefighters and army personnel could do little to save their belongings as the inferno tore through the clothing market, turning them into a pile of ashes.

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Ottawa: Moments after Canadian news broadcaster CBC quit Twitter for being labelled as Government-funded Media, Elon Musk tagged the organisation as 69% Government-funded Media.

Previously, the social media website showed CBCs Twitter account as 70% Government-funded Media but Musk said, Canadian Broadcasting Corp said theyre less than 70% government-funded, so we corrected the label.

Canadian Broadcasting Corp said theyre less than 70% government-funded, so we corrected the label pic.twitter.com/lU1EWf76Zu  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) April 18, 2023

In a statement, the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation/Radio-Canada said Twitter had added a government-funded media label to its account, branding it the same way as it does major media outlets in countries such as Russia or China.

In the case of CBC/Radio-Canada this labeling is untrue and deceptive, the statement said.

Our journalism is impartial and independent. To suggest otherwise is untrue. That is why we are pausing our activities on @Twitter. | Notre journalisme est impartial et independant. Pretendre le contraire est faux. Cest pourquoi nous suspendons nos activites sur @Twitter.  CBC/Radio-Canada (@CBCRadioCanada) April 17, 2023

Twitters help center page, however, does not yet explain what this new label means.

CBC said on Monday, Our journalism is impartial and independent. To suggest otherwise is untrue. That is why we are pausing our activities on @Twitter.

While the broadcaster is publicly funded, it said its editorial independence is protected under Canadian broadcasting law.

Twitter can be a powerful tool for our journalists to communicate with Canadians, but it undermines the accuracy and professionalism of the work they do to allow our independence to be falsely described in this way, it said.

The government-funded label was allegedly added at the request of Conservative opposition leader Pierre Poilievre, who has publicly expressed disdain for the CBC and fundraised on promises to gut its funding.

Meanwhile, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau criticised Poilievre for attacking this Canadian institution, and attacking the culture and local content (that it produces) that is so important to so many Canadians.

CBCs exit follows that of National Public Radio in the United States which quit the social media platform last month over the same tag. Last month, the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) was also tagged with the government-funded label but following a successful petition by the media group, the tag was changed to publicly funded.

With inputs from agencies

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Karuizawa: G7 foreign ministers demanded on Tuesday the immediate reversal of an Afghan ban on women working for NGOs and the UN.

According to AFP, the top diplomats said, We call for the immediate reversal of unacceptable decisions restricting human rights and fundamental freedoms, including the latest bans prohibiting Afghan women from working for NGOs and the UN.

The group also slammed the Taliban authorities systematic abuses of human rights of women and girls and discrimination against the members of religious and ethnic minorities, reported AFP.

Taliban authorities triggered international outrage this month after extending a December ban on Afghan women working for non-governmental organisations to include the UN.

They have dismissed criticism of the move, claiming that it is an internal matter that must be respected by all sides.

According to the UN, the ban forces it to make a appalling choice about whether or not to continue operations in Afghanistan.

It claims it is unable to comply with the ban because it is illegal under international law, including the UN Charter.

Since seizing power in 2021, Taliban authorities have imposed a slew of restrictions on Afghan women based on their interpretation of Islam, including prohibiting them from higher education and many government jobs, reported AFP.

With inputs from agencies

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Beijing: After G7 foreign ministers criticised a number of its policies, China on Tuesday said that G7 nations in Japan disregarded Beijings solemn position and maliciously slandered and smeared it on the platform.

The G7 foreign ministers meeting disregarded Chinas solemn position and objective facts, grossly interfered in Chinas internal affairs and maliciously slandered and smeared China, foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin told reporters.

Asked about a joint statement in which G7 diplomats  meeting in Japans resort town of Karuizawa  expressed concerns about issues relating to Taiwan, the East China Sea, South China Sea, Xinjiang, and Tibet, Wang singled out hosts Japan and slammed the communique.

Between the lines, the relevant statement is full of arrogance, prejudice and sinister intent to oppose and suppress China, Wang said.

China expresses strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition and has lodged solemn representations with Japan, the host country of the meeting.

China recently held three days of military drills around Taiwan in a show of force it described as a rehearsal to seal off the self-ruled island.

Even though it has been ruled separately for more than 70 years, China views Taiwan as part of its territory and has vowed to one day seize it, by force if necessary.

Taiwan is a sacred and inalienable part of Chinas territory, Wang said.

The One-China principle is the anchor for peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. To truly maintain peace any move towards Taiwan independence must be unequivocally opposed and stopped.

He went on to refer to Hong Kong, Xinjiang and Tibet, which he said were purely Chinas internal affairs and Beijing would not tolerate interference by any outside force under any name or in any way.

Wang added: The situation in the East China Sea and the South China Sea remains stable on the whole.

Relevant (G7) countries should earnestly respect the efforts of regional countries to maintain peace and stability, stop sowing discord between regional countries and provoking confrontation between camps.

With inputs from agencies

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Tokyo: The Group of Seven (G7) foreign ministers reiterated their demand on China to act responsibly as a member of the international community on Tuesday, stating that peace and stability were a indispensable element of global security.

There is no change in the basic positions of the G-7 members on Taiwan, the foreign ministers emphasised in a joint statement following a three-day summit in central Japans Karuizawa.

The ministers from Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the United States (US), as well as the European Union, expressed worry about the situation in the East and South China Seas and criticised Chinas militarization activities in the region.

The G-7 statement was released in response to comments made by French President Emmanuel Macron during a recent visit to China, in which he warned that Europe should avoid becoming a follower of either Beijing or Washington, and stay out of any disputes between the two nations over Taiwan.

We remain seriously concerned about the situation in the East and South China Seas, the G-17 ministers communique from their meeting in Japan stated. Any unilateral efforts to impose pressure or force a change in the status quo are categorically rejected by us. We oppose Chinas militarised efforts in the area because its extensive maritime claims in the South China Sea lack legal support.

We emphasize the universal and unified character of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and reaffirm UNCLOS important role in setting out the legal framework that governs all activities in the oceans and the seas, the statement added.

The G7 emphasised the importance of the award made by the Arbitral Tribunal on July 12, 2016, in their statement. The Arbitral Tribunal, which was established in accordance with the Law of the Sea Convention of 1982, issued a unanimous and durable judgement decisively dismissing the PRCs extensive maritime claims in the South China Sea as lacking any legal foundation.

The G7 members understood how crucial it was to communicate openly with and express our concerns to China. They understand the necessity of collaborating with China on international issues as well as topics of shared interest, such as gender equality, biodiversity, climate change, and international health security.

We reiterate our call for China to act as a responsible member of the international community. We stand prepared to work together to build constructive and stable relations through dialogue and to promote global economic recovery and people-to-people exchanges in a mutually beneficial way, the statement read.

It is in the interest of all countries, including China, to ensure transparent, predictable, and fair business environments. Legitimate business activities and interests of foreign companies must be protected from unfair, anti-competitive, and non-market practices, including through illegitimate technology transfer or data disclosure in exchange for market access, the statement added.

The G7 asked China to fulfill its obligations to behave responsibly in cyberspace, particularly refraining from conducting or supporting cyber-enabled intellectual property theft for financial gain, after examining several cyber-theft cases.

The G7 emphasised the significance of cross-Strait stability as a necessary component of security and prosperity in the international community when discussing the peace in Taiwan and called for the peaceful resolution of cross-Strait disputes. The G7 members fundamental stances on Taiwan, particularly their professed one-China policy, have not changed.

Concerns over alleged abuses and violations of human rights, especially those in Tibet and Xinjiang, were also expressed by the G7 to China.

We reiterate our concerns over the continued erosion of Hong Kongs autonomy rights and freedoms and call on China to act in accordance with its international commitments and legal obligations, including those enshrined in the Sino-British Joint Declaration and the Basic Law, the G7 said in a statement.

We call on China to act in accordance with its obligations under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, the statement added.

(With agency inputs)

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Panaji: Delegates at the G20 Health Working Group meeting visited a Jan Aushadhi Kendra here, said Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, adding that some of them have expressed their desire to emulate it in their country for which India will provide all possible help.

During their visit to the Jan Aushadhi Kendra, Mandaviya explained to them how the Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana ensures access to quality and affordable medicines for the people in every nook and corner of the country.

Underlining that India never linked health with commerce, Mandaviya said that over 9,500 Jan Aushadhi Kendras are operational in the country. The delegates who came to the G20 (Health Working Group meeting) visited the Jan Aushadhi Kendra and took detailed information about this public welfare project. Some of them want to implement this scheme in their country as well. India will provide all possible help to them in this regard, Mandaviya said.

Vinod Menon, the in-charge of the Jan Aushadhi Kendra in Panaji, said the delegates wanted to know from him the entire process  from manufacturing to distribution of medicines to all the centres all around India. They wanted to know from where the medicines are procured by the government or are manufactured and how these are delivered to different centres. They were also interested in the software through which the stock and sale of the drugs are tracked, Menon said.

Oluchi Ezeajughi, a delegate from Nigeria, said, I think its a wonderful initiative that the government is thinking of how to bring healthcare closer to the common people and make it more affordable. It is a laudable initiative to help the population lead a healthy life.

It can be emulated in other countries. We will take the idea and go back to our country and perhaps see how we can implement something like this in our healthcare system, Ezeajughi said.

Tracey Julie Mcneill, from Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, termed the Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana an impressive initiative and said it is a kind of model that can be replicated in other countries to make medicines affordable and accessible for people.

Mandaviya along with the delegates also visited a health and wellness centre in Corlim where he distributed nutrition kits (Poshan Potli) among tuberculosis patients.

Union Minister of State for Health Bharati Pravin Pawar, who also accompanied him, distributed eyeglasses to children under the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram.

UNICEF Indias chief of health Luigi dAquino said, I have seen amazing progress in the four years that I have spent in this country when it comes to children. Fewer children are dying and babies are surviving Most of the babies are immunised. So there is a lot of progress and it is visible to the world.

The second Health Working Group meeting under Indias G20 presidency will conclude on April 19. More than 180 delegates from 19 G20 member countries, 10 invited states and 22 international organisations are participating in it.

Indias G20 Presidency has prioritized three areas of health which include health emergencies prevention, preparedness, and response with a focus on one-health and antimicrobial resistance; strengthening cooperation in the pharmaceutical sector; and digital health innovations and solutions to aid universal health coverage and improve healthcare service delivery.

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Guatemalan president Alejandro Giammattei on Tuesday announced that he will visit Taiwan this weekend, amid tensions between the island nation and China that have tested the loyalties of Latin American nations.

Giammatteis announcement Tuesday came just two weeks after he received Taiwans President Tsai Ing-wen for an official visit during which she promised continued assistance for democratic partners.

Tsai then traveled to neighbouring Belize  the only other Central American country to retain diplomatic ties with Taiwan since Honduras shifted its allegiance to China last month.

China considers self-ruled, democratic Taiwan part of its territory to be retaken one day, and does not allow other countries to recognize both Beijing and Taipei.

On Tsais return home from Belize, she had stopped in the United States for a meeting with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy which irked China.

Beijing then staged war games around Taiwan.

Giammattei, who reaffirmed Guatemalas recognition of the sovereignty of Taiwan, said the partner countries would sign an agreement to boost exports of Guatemalan coffee, sugar and other products.

Taiwan would also assist Guatemala with a fund for natural disasters, the president said, and provide $1.5 million for the air conditioning system at the airport in Guatemala City.

Only 13 countries recognise Taiwan

Taiwan had said that before Honduras decided to cut ties, it had asked for money, but Taipei would not engage in a meaningless cash diplomacy contest with China.

Since the break with Honduras, only 13 countries diplomatically recognise Taiwan.

In Latin America, Nicaragua shifted its allegiance to Beijing in 2021, El Salvador in 2018, Panama in 2017 and Costa Rica in 2007.

With inputs from AFP

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Khartoum: A 24-hour cease-fire in Sudan was broken by heavy gunfire on Tuesday, just as it was about to start, as a result of US pressure on the warring military groups to stop fighting that has sparked a humanitarian disaster.

Minutes after the scheduled 6 pm (1600 GMT) start of the truce, loud firing echoed in the background of live feeds by Arab television news networks in the Khartoum capital region.

A resident of Omdurman, Khartoums sister city on the other bank of the Nile River, told Reuters he heard an air raid being carried out, and warplanes were roaring in the skies above Khartoum. A Reuters reporter also heard tanks shooting immediately after the truce was supposed to start. According to several witnesses, a sizable army ground force entered the city from the east.

An air raid was being carried out in Omdurman, Khartoums sister city on the other bank of the Nile River, according to a local who told Reuters he heard it. Warplanes were screaming in the sky above Khartoum, tanks were shooting immediately after the truce was supposed to start, and there were warplanes flying overhead. According to several witnesses, a sizable army ground force entered the city from the east.

The regular army and the rival paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) issued statements accusing each other of failing to respect the ceasefire. The armys high command said it would continue operations to secure the capital and other regions.

We have not received any indications here that theres been a halt in the fighting, United Nations spokesman Stephane Dujarric told a news briefing in New York.

The conflict between Sudans military leader and his deputy on Sudans ruling council erupted four days ago, derailing an internationally backed plan for a transition to a civilian democracy four years after the fall of Islamist autocrat Omar al-Bashir to mass protests and two years after a military coup.

The fighting has triggered what the United Nations has described as a humanitarian catastrophe, including the near collapse of the health system. The UNs World Food Programme suspended operations after three of its employees were killed.

At least 185 people have been killed in the conflict.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, speaking in Japan, said on Tuesday he had telephoned both army chief General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and RSF leader General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, appealing for a ceasefire to allow the Sudanese to be safely reunited with families and to provide them with relief.

Fighting had appeared to tail off close to the deadline for the ceasefire, which coincided with the evening breaking of the daily fast during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.

Warplanes and explosions

Earlier in the day, the sounds of warplanes and explosions echoed across Khartoum. Residents in the neighbouring cities of Omdurman and Bahri reported air strikes that shook buildings and anti-aircraft fire. Fighting also raged in the west of the country, the United Nations said.

In a video verified by Reuters, RSF fighters could be seen inside a section of the army headquarters in Khartoum. The fighters did not appear to control the sprawling site, a Reuters reporter in the capital said.

Burhan heads a ruling council installed after the 2021 military coup and the 2019 ouster of Bashir, while Dagalo  better known as Hemedti  is his deputy on the ruling council.

Their power struggle has stalled the plan for a shift to civilian rule after decades of autocracy and military domination in Sudan, which sits at a strategic crossroads between Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Ethiopia and Africas volatile Sahel region.

Unless controlled, the violence also risks drawing in actors from Sudans neighbourhood who have backed different factions and could play into competition for regional influence between Russia and the United States.

Reports of sexual assault

Fighters have attacked aid workers, hospitals and diplomats, including a European Union ambassador assaulted in his home.

UN aid chief Martin Griffiths said humanitarian relief workers and facilities were continuing to be targeted in Sudan and the United Nations was receiving reports of attacks and sexual violence against aid workers.

This is unacceptable and must stop, Griffiths posted on Twitter, adding that the UN aid office in South Darfur was also looted on Monday.

Three workers for the World Food Programme were killed in the fighting on Saturday, and a UN plane was hit in crossfire at Khartoums international airport.

Blinken said a US convoy was attacked despite its vehicles being marked with diplomatic licence plates and bearing US flags. Initial reports suggest the attack was undertaken by RSF-associated forces, he said, calling the action reckless. Blinken said all US personnel were safe after the incident.

After the call with Blinken, Hemedti said the RSF approved the ceasefire to ensure the safe passage of civilians and the evacuation of the wounded.

In a post on Twitter, he said he and Blinken discussed pressing issues and more talks were planned. The RSF issued a statement saying it was waging a battle to restore the rights of our people in what it called a new revolution.

A previous, shorter ceasefire agreed for Sunday was widely ignored. Artillery volleys, strikes by combat aircraft and street fighting have made it almost impossible to travel in Khartoum, trapping residents and foreigners in their homes.

The main international airport has been under attack, halting commercial flights.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies said it was nearly impossible to provide humanitarian services around the capital. It warned that Sudans health system was at risk of breakdown.

The outbreak of fighting followed rising tensions over a plan for the RSFs integration into the regular military.

Discord over the timetable for that process delayed the signing of the framework deal to launch a civilian transition that was due to be signed earlier this month.

The fighting has affected several parts of the country since Saturday, including the western desert region of Darfur, which borders Chad and suffered warfare in 2003 that killed as many as 300,000 people and displaced 2.7 million.

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Khartoum (Sudan): On Tuesday, the Indian Embassy in Sudan issued a cautious warning for Indian nationals to stay indoors and suggested rationing supplies as the situation may continue for a few more days.

We have come across many instances of looting. All Indian nationals are advised please not to venture out. Please ration your supplies. The situation may continue for a few more days. Please try to take help from your neighbours. Please stay at home and remain safe, tweeted the Embassy of India in Khartoum.

In light of the ongoing fighting between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), the Ministry of External Affairs established a Control Room on Monday to inform and support Indians in Sudan.

In view of the current situation in Sudan, a Control Room has been set up at the Ministry of External Affairs to provide information and assistance, read the MEA press release.

An Indian national who was employed by a Dal Group company in Khartoum, Sudan, was struck by a stray bullet on Sunday.

Sharing details about the deceased Indian national, Indian Embassy in Sudan tweeted,  It has been reported that Mr Albert Augestine, an Indian National working in a Dal Group Company in Sudan who got hit by a stray bullet yesterday succumbed to his injuries. The embassy is in touch with family and medical authorities to make further arrangements.

According to Volker Perthes, the UN envoy to Sudan, conflict between Sudans military and the nations primary paramilitary organisation has resulted in up to 180 civilian deaths and more than 1,800 civilian and combatant injuries.

Many of the five million people who live in Khartoum, the capital city, are reportedly stranded at home without electricity or water as they observe the final days of Ramzan, the Muslim holy month during which many people fast every day from sunrise until nightfall.

According to a New York Times article, the members of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces assaulted a European Union ambassador inside his home in Khartoum, the capital of Sudan, on Monday afternoon. Two Western sources confirmed the incident.

Aidan OHara, an Irish diplomat serving as the EUs ambassador to Sudan, was unharmed despite being threatened with a pistol and having money stolen, according to authorities who spoke to the New York Times under the condition of anonymity for security reasons.The military has been in charge of Sudan since a 2021 coup that derailed the countrys path to democracy.

As political factions discuss forming a transitional administration following a military coup in 2021, the armed forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have been vying for control.

The RSF, led by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, and the military, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, disagree about how the paramilitary force should be integrated into the armed forces and who should be in charge of overseeing that process, according to Al Jazeera.

The military vowed to hand over power to a civilian-led administration this month, 18 months after its coup. However, the conflict between General al-Burhan and General Hamdan, also known as Hemeti, has dominated the process.

Over the past few months, the two generals have been openly denouncing one another in speeches. They have sent reinforcements and armoured vehicles to the citys surrounding military camps to confront them.

(With agency inputs)

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London: In Northern Ireland, a police officer and a former officer are being prosecuted for allegedly sharing pictures taken at the scenes of sudden deaths.

According to reports, the two will face legal action for alleged wrongdoing in public service, the regions Public Prosecution Service announced.

One of the policemen has reportedly already been fired from the Police Service of Northern Ireland, and the other has reportedly been suspended.

The Police Ombudsman for Northern Irelands inquiry file contains material that prompted the PPS to pursue the lawsuit.

Investigations conducted as part of Operation Warwick focused on a number of occurrences, including the alleged sharing of photos obtained at the scenes of unexpected deaths.

The two are up for three counts of charges for improper use of a public electronic communications network in violation of the Communications Act 2003, as per local reports.

The person is being prosecuted in connection with the alleged distribution of images taken at the scenes of sudden deaths after the PSNI submitted a separate file.

At this point, the case is subjudice in a court.

The PPS stated that four families involved in the investigations after a loved one died are being kept updated.

The Police Ombudsman is conducting the criminal probe, according to a PSNI spokesperson who refused to comment.

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New Delhi: Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has told the countrys High Court of Justice that including women in the countrys elite armed forces isnt possible due to physiological differences between them and their male counterparts.

According to a report by the Jerusalem Post, the IDFs stance was taken in response to requests from women to be taken into consideration for tryouts for special forces units and as a result of two distinct analytical studies conducted in recent years into the efficiency of female soldiers in particular units, such as heavy infantry.

Citing the analytical studies, IDF said that women run a far greater risk of injury when required to perform tasks that require lifting heavy weights, such as backpacks and large firearms.

The studies also noted that women would be more useful in operational situations with infantry brigades, including roles in mortar team units, which dont have such significant physical requirements, it added.

Select roles

Following the recommendation of a panel appointed by Chief of Staff Aviv Kochavi on the possibility of more women taking on combat roles, a new pilot program will let women apply for the Air Forces rescue unit or for a bomb disposal role at Yahalom, a special ops unit in the Combat Engineering Corps.

After it was first opened to women last year, the IDF reported last month that 12 female soldiers had met the standards to be admitted.

It would also include a platoon of women assisting ground forces, given that enough women apply to go ahead with it.

The panel advising Kochavi noted that dozens of women a year meet the criteria for other combat roles, but recommended waiting with further positions until after the pilot program.

As for elite units, the panel said women should not be allowed to join them at this point, citing a very low number of women who satisfy the physical conditions required for these roles.

Women in Israeli combat infantry units must weigh no less than 67 kg (147 pounds) and be at least 164 cm (54) tall.

Despite these restrictions, the IDF told the court that some 90 per cent of its military positions were fully open to female applicants  with around 20 per cent of combat units in the IDF currently filled by women. This is, it said, the result of its commitment to encouraging women to apply for the military.

Last week, the army said it planned to open the door for female draftees wishing to join its special air force rescue Unit 669. Women will now be allowed to try out for combat roles in the air forces ultra-elite search-and-rescue unit.

Currently, women serving in the unit are allowed to be paramedics or fill other non-combat roles.

With inputs from agencies

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New Delhi: The suspect in the attack on Japan PM Fumio Kishida may have had a grudge towards the nations electoral system after being disqualified from running for office in the upper house election the previous year, according to court documents, as reported by Kyodo News.

Ryuji Kimura (24), has remained silent since being detained after throwing an explosive device at Kishida on Saturday in the western Japanese city of Wakayama.

The incident occurred just before Kishida was about to deliver a speech.

According to Kyodo News, the records show that in June of last year, a man with Kimuras exact name and address petitioned the Kobe District Court for damages for mental distress after being unable to announce his candidature for a House of Councillors election that took place the following month. He requested 100,000 yen in damages.

Kimura alleged that the requirements of being at least 30-years-old and putting down a 3 million yen deposit prevented him from running in the upper house election, which he claimed was against the Constitutions guarantee of equality before the law.

However, the district court dismissed the case in November on the grounds that the age restriction and deposit were both reasonable requirements. He filed an appeal with the Osaka High Court, and the court is expected to rule in May of this year.

Investigative sources cited Kimuras family as saying that he was at home until around midnight on the day of the attack, but was gone by morning, reported Kyodo News.

The Liberal Democratic Partys headquarters reported that the party posted Kishidas schedule for Saturday the night before on its website and that one of its election candidates also shared the prime ministers speech preparations on social media.

On Saturday at about 11:25 am, Kimura threw an explosive at Kishida from within a crowd. He was only a few metres from the prime minister when the object, which was thought to be a homemade pipe bomb, landed a few metres away from Kishida.

Also Read: Suspect may have used homemade pipe bomb to attack PM Kishida, investigators say

The attack occurred less than a year after Japans former PM Shinzo Abe was shot and killed in July 2017 while making a speech in the city of Nara ahead of the election for the House of Councillors.

With inputs from agencies

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Wilmington, Del.: In a trial that will test First Amendment safeguards and reveal the networks involvement in propagating the hoax of a stolen 2020 presidential election, a jury was selected to hear a $1.6 billion defamation case brought by a voting equipment manufacturer against Fox News.

Jury selection took place the day after the court allowed a one-day postponement to give the parties time to try to reach a settlement.

Dominion Voting Systems, located in Denver, wants to hold Fox responsible for disseminating erroneous claims of election fraud that continue to trouble US politics.

Judge Eric Davis of the Delaware Superior Court made no mention of the brief holdup. But, according to a close friend of Fox who spoke under the condition of anonymity and was not authorised to publicly discuss the status of the case, he urged the firms to attempt mediating their conflict.

In addition to exposing behind-the-scenes activity at Fox News in the weeks following the 2020 election and shedding light on the misinformation flow that turned into a tidal wave after the election, which then-President Donald Trump lost to Joe Biden, the case will also scrutinise the libel standard that has guided US media outlets for nearly six decades.

Fox News stars such as Tucker Carlson and Sean Hannity, as well as company founder Rupert Murdoch, are expected to testify during the six-week trial, but its unclear whether any witnesses would be called Tuesday.

Dominion claims New York-based Fox News and its parent company, Fox Corp., essentially bulldozed the voting companys business and subjected employees to threats by falsely implicating it in a bogus conspiracy to rig the election against Trump.

In the weeks after Election Day, prominent Fox News hosts brought on Trump allies who falsely claimed that Dominions machines were programmed to snatch votes away from the Republican incumbent and pad the Democratic challengers total.

Many of Foxs hosts and executives didnt believe the claims but allowed them to be aired nevertheless.

Fox spread and endorsed one of the most damaging lies in this countrys history, Dominions lawyers wrote in a court filing.

Pointing to communications among Fox figures, from executives to fact-checkers, Dominion argues that the network knowingly amplified falsehoods for the sake of ratings.

Fox says it simply reported on Trumps challenges to the election results and let viewers hear from his lawyers and allies.

Dominions lawsuit is a political crusade in search of a financial windfall, but the real cost would be cherished First Amendment rights, the network said in a statement last week.

Fox said its hosts sometimes alluded to a need for evidence to back up the allegations and noted that Dominion denied the claims.

Federal and state election officials, exhaustive reviews in battleground states and Trumps own attorney general found no widespread fraud that could have changed the election outcome. Nor did they turn up any credible evidence that the vote was tainted.

Dozens of courts, some with Trump-appointed judges, also rejected his fraud allegations. In the Dominion case, Davis declared it was CRYSTAL clear that the claims about the voting machine company werent true.

A key question for the jury is whether Fox News acted with actual malice, a legal standard that applies when public figures sue news outlets for defamation. The standard, derived from a 1964 Supreme Court case, means knowingly publishing or airing something false or operating with reckless disregard for whether its true.

Dominion has pointed to text and email messages in which Fox insiders discounted and sometimes overtly mocked the vote manipulation claims. One Fox Corp. vice president called them MIND BLOWINGLY NUTS.

Carlson, Fox Newss biggest star, even expressed scorn for Trump, whose supporters formed the core of the networks viewers. Text exchanges revealed as part of the lawsuit show Carlson declaring, I hate him passionately, and saying that we are very, very close to being able to ignore Trump most nights.

Murdoch, the Fox News founder and Fox Corp. chairman found the election claims really crazy, according to an email he sent while watching a news conference that Trump lawyers gave on Nov. 19, 2020.

Terrible stuff damaging everybody, I fear. Probably hurting us too, Murdoch told Fox News CEO Suzanne Scott in another email that day.

Yet talk of the alleged conspiracy continued to air on Fox for weeks after the voting.

In his deposition for the case, Murdoch acknowledged the 2020 presidential election was fair while also acknowledging that some of Foxs hosts seemed to endorse the bogus election claims.

The network maintains that Dominion cherry-picked from private messages and broadcast transcripts and depositions of various Fox players while brushing past other comments and context more favourable to Fox. The network also maintains that Dominions claims of lost business are massively inflated.

Fox found itself in hot water with the judge as the trial neared. Davis rapped the network last week for what he saw as misrepresentations and belated disclosures of some information in the case. On Friday, a Fox attorney apologized in a letter to the judge for what the attorney described as a misunderstanding about the disclosure of Murdochs formal role at Fox News.

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Kyiv: Two men claiming to be former Wagner commanders have confessed to killing children and civilians during their time in Ukraine.

During a video interview with Gulagu.net, a human rights organisation tracking war crimes committed by Russia in Ukraine, former Russian convicts Azamat Uldarov and Alexey Savichev detailed how they used to kill civilians in Ukraine.

Both Uldarov and Savichev were pardoned by a Russian presidential decree last year.

Headed by the Russian oligarch Yevgeny Prigozhin, the Wagner group is a private mercenary deployed in Ukraine. The group has recruited thousands of fighters from jails, offering incentives after a six-month service.

Wasnt allowed to let anyone alive

In his testimony, Uldarov recalled how he killed a child. He said, (It was) a management decision. I wasnt allowed to let anyone out alive, because my command was to kill anything in my way.

While Savichev said that he threw around 30 grenades into a pit with dead and wounded Ukrainians and later burned the bodies.

Watch the video here:

Russian Wagner commanders admitting to executing 5 year old Ukrainian children. Leftists like BadEmpanada go well what can you do https://t.co/rninlwm6lf pic.twitter.com/kCFOwd2zjx  Drew Pavlou (@DrewPavlou) April 17, 2023

Although the video appears to be true, Firstpost cannot verify it.

Explaining his motivation to come in front of the camera, Uldarov said, I want Russia and other nations to know the truth. I dont want war and bloodshed. You see Im holding a cigarette in this hand. I followed orders with this hand and killed children.

He added that Wagner mercenaries were given an order by Prigozhin to annihilate everyone.

Savichev said that they were commanded to execute any men who were 15 years or older.

He said, It doesnt matter whether there is a civilian there or not. The house needs to be swept. I didnt give a f**k who was inside.

Ukraine opens investigation after interview surfaces

According to Novaya Gazeta Europe, the Ukrainian Prosecutor Generals Office launched a probe soon after the interview surfaced on Gulagu.net.

The office has also summoned the Wagner Group chief as well as the head of one of its divisions for engaging in an aggressive war and encroaching on Ukraines territorial integrity.

Commenting on the video, Andriy Yermak, head of the Ukrainian presidential office said, A confession alone is not enough. There must be punishment. A brutal and just one. And it will definitely come.

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Mexico City, Mexico: As new diplomatic tensions between the neighbours erupted as a result of an information leak, Mexicos president said on Monday that his nation would not stand for the United States eavesdropping on its security agencies.

Acts of spying cannot be used to find out what our security institutions are doing and, furthermore, with the arrogance of leaking the information to The Washington Post, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said at his daily news conference.

He was making reference to an article that appeared in the newspaper over the weekend and cited a secret US dossier that warned of the possibility of rising tensions between the various components of the Mexican military forces.

According to a top-secret US military assessment, Lopez Obrador was likely to give the army greater duties, such as command over all of the countrys airspace, which irritated Mexicos navy, the newspaper reported.

According to the Post, there was no evidence that the intelligence, which was exposed as part of a significant recent leak of highly classified US data, was based on US wiretaps or intercepts of Mexican officials.

Additionally, Lopez Obrador reiterated that Mexico would not tolerate US anti-drug forces operating on its country when they subsequently met with US Ambassador Ken Salazar.

There cannot be foreign agents in our country. No. We can share information, but its members of the Mexican Army, Navy and National Guard who can intervene, he said.

The remarks came after the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) said on Friday that it had infiltrated the infamous Sinaloa Cartel over the last year and a half, obtaining unprecedented access to the organizations highest levels.

The US Justice Department announced charges against four sons of imprisoned Mexican drug lord Joaquin El Chapo Guzman and their Chinese chemical suppliers in a crackdown on fentanyl trafficking networks.

Mexico reformed its national security law in 2021 to limit the operations of foreign agents.

The move came amid a row over the United States arrest of a former Mexican defence minister.

Lopez Obrador accused the DEA of fabricating drug trafficking crimes against Salvador Cienfuegos  a key figure in ex-president Enrique Pena Nietos 2012-2018 government  and the charges were later dropped.

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A Moscow court on Tuesday fined the online encyclopaedia again for failing to delete what it considers to be unlawful information, while the Russian minister of digital affairs claimed his country is not yet going to shut Wikipedia.

One of the few independent sources of information in Russia that has survived since the government began to crack down on internet material after Moscow pushed troops into Ukraine is Wikipedia.

We are not blocking Wikipedia yet, there are no such plans for now, Interfax news agency quoted digital affairs minister Maksut Shadaev as saying.

Wikipedia said in an emailed statement it would continue to provide access to Wikipedia for Russian speakers around the world who find value in the site and endeavour to protect everyones right to access.

A Moscow court fined Wikimedia Foundation, the company that owns Wikipedia, 800,000 roubles ($9,777) on Tuesday for what Russian authorities claimed was a failure to delete content that was seen to be encouraging train hopping, in which a person rides on the side or top of a train.

Wikipedia has previously said that the content about which the Russian government complained was properly sourced and adhered to Wikipedia standards. Without much success, Russia has been trying to create its own online encyclopaedia for years.

Similar difficulties have been encountered by Russia in developing a rival video hosting site to Alphabets YouTube, which is still accessible while other international social media networks are prohibited.

Vyacheslav Volodin, speaker of the State Duma, Russias lower house of parliament, said on Tuesday a court had ordered Google to pay 1 billion roubles for blocking the Duma TV YouTube channel.

Today, the bailiff service has started seizing property, in search of these funds, Volodin said.

Google in Russia did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Interfax news agency later said communications regulator Roskomnadzor was seeking to fine Google up to 4 million roubles for refusing to remove content banned in Russia. The case will be heard in a Moscow court on 20 April.

Last September a court upheld a fine of 21.7 billion roubles against Googles Russian subsidiary for repeated failure to delete information related to the campaign in Ukraine.

The subsidiary filed for bankruptcy after authorities seized its bank account. The US tech giant has paused commercial operations in Russia, but free services remain available.

Russia also fined Amazons Twitch 4 million roubles for failing to delete false information about Moscows campaign. Twitch had no immediate comment.

($1 = 81.8255 roubles)

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Moscow: The Russian Foreign Ministry has summoned on Tuesday the ambassadors of the United States, the United Kingdom and Canada to express dismay over meddling in Russias internal affairs, the ministry said in a statement.

The ambassadors of the US, the UK and Canada have been summoned to the Foreign Ministry over blatant interference in Russias domestic affairs and activities inconsistent with diplomatic status, the statement reads.

Russias Foreign Ministry accused the three ambassadors of crude interference in Russias internal affairs and activity incompatible with their diplomatic status, the Interfax news agency reported.

There was no immediate comment from the three embassies. The U.S., British and Canadian ambassadors had made a joint appearance in front of TV cameras on the steps of the Moscow court on Monday to condemn the verdict and demand the release of jailed Kremlin critic Vladimir Kara-Murza  who holds Russian and British passports.

Kara-Murza, 41, had condemned what Moscow calls its special military operation in Ukraine.

Terming the remarks of British Ambassador to Moscow Deborah Bronnert as unacceptable the Russian diplomat warned London against politicizing international human rights issues.

Subversive Work

In a statement issued late on Monday, before the envoys were summoned, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova accused them of trying to pressure the judiciary and said diplomats who meddled in Russias affairs risked being expelled.

Any actions of the United States, Britain and Canada aimed at inciting discord and enmity in our society will be dealt with in the most decisive way and the diplomats involved in this subversive work will be expelled from Russia, she said.

Referencing what she said were human rights violations in the three Western countries, Zakharova said it was cynical for them to demand the release of someone she called an agent of influence financed by the West.

Attempts to pressure Russias government and its independent judiciary are bound to fail. Traitors who are applauded in the West will get what they deserve, she said.

Britain  which in 2020 imposed sanctions on the judge who presided over Kara-Murzas case for alleged rights violations  on Monday summoned the Russian ambassador to protest.

Kara-Murza himself compared his trial, which was held behind closed doors, to one of Josef Stalins show trials in the 1930s.

Pro-Kremlin politicians said Kara-Murza deserved to be jailed for helping the West craft sanctions against Russia.

With inputs from agencies.

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Kathmandu: Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda is likely to embark on a three-day visit to India starting April 28.

According to officials from Nepals Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Prime Minister Secretariat, the date was proposed by India to the Nepalese government, news agency ANI reported.

If the political situation of Nepal remains normal in the coming days, the PM will embark on a 3-day visit to India. This will be his first international visit (since becoming PM for the third time), the news agency quoted an official from the PM Secretariat as saying.

Official dates regarding the Nepal PMs visit would be announced officially by both sides within a week. The Prime Minister also discussed the dates with his visit with the newly appointed minister for Foreign Affairs along with other officials. The Ministry of External Affairs has proposed the PMs visit from April 28, an official from PM Secretariat said.

The Nepal PM previously visited India twice after becoming Prime Minister. In 2008, Dahal visited India after attending the closing ceremony of the Beijing Olympics.

In 2016, he visited New Delhi again, in his first official visit to the country.

According to officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), discussions about the air routes via Bhairahawa, hydropower projects, and Kathmandu- Raxaul railways, among other, are on the table.

(With inputs from ANI)

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New Delhi: The Indian Ministry of Home Affairs has directed the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to launch a probe into the last months attacks by Khalistan leaders on the Indian High Commission in London.

The order by MHA effectively means that the Delhi Police Special Cell, which had earlier registered a case under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), must hand over the investigation to NIA.

The Indian High Commission in London was vandalised by Khalistan supporters on March 19. The pro-Khalistani elements were protesting the manhunt of preacher Amritpal Singh.

The decision for an NIA probe comes after a preliminary investigation pointed a link with Pakistans ISI following which MHA was convinced to carry out a more thorough investigation.

According to a report by Times of India, the probe will require investigators to ascertain the identities of those involved in the attack and nab Avtar Singh Khanda, the person who allegedly led the mob.

The central government is of the opinion that a scheduled offence under the National Investigation Agency Act, 2008, has been committed. The gravity of the offence and its national and international linkages require that it is probed by the NIA, the order states.

Last week, Union home secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla and other top Indian officials flagged concerns about the misuse of UKs asylum program by Khalistan elements to carry out terrorist attacks.

The Ministry of External Affairs said last month, We expect host governments will take action to identify and prosecute all those involved and take all necessary measures to prevent the recurrence of such incidents. We would hope host governments provide full and adequate protection to our missions as well as to the personnel working there.

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New Delhi: The commencement date for Ukraines counteroffensive against Russian forces has been set for 30 April, Newsweek reported on Sunday, citing a leaked Pentagon document.

The document, dated 28 February, describes equipment deliveries and a training timetable for nine brigades that, with assistance from the US and its allies, can be generated for the spring counteroffensive. According to the documents, three more brigades are anticipated to be recruited internally in Ukraine.

Out of the nine brigades trained and equipped by Western countries, six will be ready by 31 March, while the final three will be ready by 30 April, the document claimed.

During a recent trip to the US, Ukrainian Prime Minister Denis Shmigal told The Hill that the offensive might not start until the summer.

Addressing the reporters on Monday, the prime minister said he believed Kievs plans would not be affected by the Pentagon leak and that we are confident that the counteroffensive will happen in the nearest future.

A trove of classified US documents, including intelligence reports and daily updates on the Ukraine conflict, came to the attention of news organisations in April after being dumped online sometime earlier this year. The suspected leaker, US airman Jack Teixeira, was arrested by the FBI last week.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Friday that Moscow had looked into the leaked documents, although Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov has suggested that some of the files could be part of a deception campaign.

Much-anticipated Ukraine counteroffensive

Oleksiy Danilov, the secretary of Ukraines National Security and Defense Council, told The Associated Press in an interview in Kyiv that Ukraine will launch its counteroffensive against Russian troops when its ready, adding that its only a matter of time before the country achieves the necessary level of military preparedness to do so. He said Ukraines allies are helping the government to achieve the level of technical equipment necessary to launch the attack, delivering heavy armored vehicles and ammunition.

But he also expressed frustration that sometimes officials from allied countries promise one thing and do a completely different one. He didnt elaborate.

If we arent ready, then nobody will start unprepared, he said. Stalemate in war

Russias war in Ukraine has turned into a stalemate amid heavy fighting in the countrys east, particularly around the town of Bakhmut which for eight and a half months has been the stage for the wars longest and bloodiest fight.

Bakhmut lies in Donetsk province, one of four provinces Russia illegally annexed last fall. Moscow controls about half of the province. Bakhmut is a stepping stone to seizing the remaining half.

Ukrainian officials have said theyre buying time by depleting Russian forces in the battle while Kyiv prepares a counteroffensive. Zelenskyy argues that if Russia wins the Bakhmut battle, Russian President Vladimir Putin might be able to begin building international support for a deal that would require Ukraine to make unacceptable compromises to end the war.

With inputs from agencies

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Baghdad: Prime Minister of Iraq Mohammed Shia al Sudani has allegedly permitted Iran to increase its military presence in Iraq, particularly in the regions of Kirkuk and Sinjar.

According to a report by the Institute for Study of War, Iran has boosted its influence in neighbouring Iraq through the use of Iranian proxies  a process allegedly aided by Mohammed Shia al Sudani.

The PMF will establish a new operational headquarters in Kirkuk Province on April 17, according to a statement made on April 17 by the Popular Mobilisation Authority, the PMFs official governing body.

According to UK-based Arabic language media outlet Al Araby, Mohammed Shia al Sudani had also given the go-ahead for Faleh al Fayadh, the head of the Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF), to establish a new PMF-affiliated brigade at Sinjar in the Ninewa province of Iraq, on April 17.

The Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF) is a Shia majority group that had reportedly played a significant role in the fight against the Islamic State (ISIS), which was opposed to Shia-ruled Iran.

The brigade will be made up of Sinjar inhabitants chosen by local authorities and PMF leadership, as well as members of the PMF and the PKK-affiliated Sinjar Resistance Units (YBS), according to an unnamed PMF source reported by Al Araby. Sudani may have allowed these changes since his control over the PMF has waned lately.

Due to opposition from the Badr Organisation in the Diyala Province and previous Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al Maliki, who backed electoral regulations that will bar Sudani from serving another term as Prime Minister, according to CTP, Sudani has faced political setbacks.
New Delhi: South African president Cyril Ramaphosa has signed the Electoral Amendment Bill into Law which will pave the way for independent candidates to contest national and provincial elections.

According to a report, The Electoral Amendment Bill marks a significant milestone in the evolution of our democracy by expanding electoral participation and widening the pool of leadership choice for the National Assembly and provincial legislatures, Cyril Ramaphosa said in a statement.

The 1998 Electoral Act

In 2020, the Constitutional Court ruled said that the 1998 Electoral Act was unconstitutional for not allowing independent candidates to participate in elections and allowing candidates affiliated with political parties only to contest polls.

Meanwhile, the amended Act requires the Minister of home affairs to establish the Electoral Reform Consultation Panel within four months of gazetting the amendments. This panel will make non-binding recommendations on potential reforms of the electoral system for future elections of the National Assembly and the provincial legislatures after the 2024 polls.

A report in News 24 suggested that members of civil society, however, have been highly critical of the Bill and have mooted the possibility of litigation if it is passed in its current form.

A general concern is the Bill does not allow a mixed constituency-proportional list system.

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Kyiv, Ukraine: Officials said on Tuesday that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made his most recent journey to locations close to the front line, while Russian President Vladimir Putin visited command posts of his soldiers fighting in Ukraine for the second time in two months.

The trips, which took place on various days and in several regions, aimed to fortify soldiers determination as the war nears its 14th month and Kyiv gets ready for a potential counteroffensive with weaponry supplied by the West.

Putin was shown in a Kremlin video that was aired on Russian state television arriving by helicopter at the Russian forces command post in the Kherson region in southern Ukraine before taking off for the Russian National Guards headquarters in the province of Luhansk in the east of the nation. The visits, according to Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, happened on Monday.

Dressed in a dark suit, Putin attended briefings with his military brass at both of his stops. The locations of the military headquarters werent disclosed, making it impossible to assess how close they were to the front line. Nor was it possible to independently verify the authenticity of the video.

Zelenskyy visited forces in Avdiivka, an eastern city in the Donetsk Province where severe fights are occurring, on his most recent trip on Tuesday, according to his office. He heard first-hand accounts of the battle and presented prizes.

Zelenskyy travelled throughout the nation last month, frequently by train, and his trips to regions bearing the brunt of Russias full-scale invasion picked up speed. Similar to Putin, the Ukrainian normally doesnt make his wartime travels public until after hes already departed a region.

While official coverage of Putins trip showed him in most formal and ceremonious settings, photographs issued by Zelenskyys office showed the Ukrainian president taking selfies with soldiers, eating cake with them and drinking out of paper cups.

Russias war in Ukraine has become largely deadlocked amid heavy fighting in the east, particularly around the Donestk province city of Bakhmut, which for 8 months has seen the longest and bloodiest battle so far.

Kherson, Luhansk, Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia provinces were annexed illegally by Russia in September, following local referendums that Ukraine and the West denounced as shams. Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak was scathing in his criticism of Putins trip, accusing him of degradation and being the author of mass murders in the war.

Both then and now, large parts of Donetsk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia, as well as some areas of Luhansk province, have remained under Ukrainian control. In November, Russian forces ceded territory in Kherson province, including the regions namesake capital.

In a related development, the Moscow-appointed governor of the occupied part of Donetsk province, Denis Pushilin, went to the Belarus capital of Minsk and won pledges of support from President Alexander Lukashenko, a Putin ally.

Analysts said Pushilins visit was likely approved by the Kremlin and sought to remind Kyiv about the possibility of Belarus joining Russia in the war.

The Kremlin forces Minsk to get involved in the war more actively in order to pressure Ukraine with threats of Belarus joining, Belarusian political analyst Valery Karbalevich said in a telephone interview. It is clear that Pushilins visit to Minsk has been synchronized with Putins trip to the occupied Ukrainian regions and aims to show that the Belarusian threat hasnt gone away.

During his visits, Putin congratulated the military divisions on Orthodox Easter, which was celebrated Sunday, and presented them with icons. Speaking to senior officers at the Kherson headquarters, Putin handed them a copy of an Orthodox icon he said belonged to a 19th-century Russian general.

The senior officers present at the meetings reflected which ones were currently in favour of Putin. Col. Gen. Mikhail Teplinsky, the chief of Russias airborne troops, was among the top generals at the Kherson base.

Teplinsky, a career officer who rose from lieutenant to become chief of the elite military branch, is known for being popular with his troops. Last fall, however, he was temporarily relieved of his position amid a spat with the military brass. He was restored to the job this year, and his meeting with Putin indicated he was back in favour.

A senior officer who greeted Putin in the Luhansk region, Col. Gen. Alexander Lapin, also was relieved of his duties as commanding officer in northeastern Ukraine after he was blamed for a hasty Russian pullback from parts of Kharkiv province in the face of a Ukrainian counteroffensive in September. Lapin was later named as chief of staff of the ground forces, and his meeting with Putin signalled he had the presidents trust.

Putins trips came as Ukraine is preparing a new counteroffensive to reclaim occupied territories. Last month, he visited the Russian-held port of Mariupol on the Sea of Azov. The city was captured by Russian troops in May 2022 after two months of fierce fighting.

Ukrainian officials have said theyre depleting Russian forces in eastern Ukraine while preparing for a counteroffensive. Zelenskyy has argued that if Russia seizes Bakhmut, it could allow Putin to begin building international support for a deal requiring Ukraine to make compromises to end the war.

Oleksiy Danilov, the secretary of Ukraines National Security and Defense Council, told The Associated Press that Ukraines allies were helping the government assemble the material needed for a counteroffensive, including heavy armoured vehicles and ammunition.

Meanwhile, at least three civilians were killed and 11 wounded in Ukraine between Monday and Tuesday, according to Zelenskyys office. Most of the casualties occurred in the Donbas, the eastern region made up of Luhansk and Donetsk provinces, the office said. Six people were wounded in artillery fire in the city of Kherson.

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Moscow, Russia: In addition to establishing a potential life sentence for high treason, Russian legislators on Tuesday toughened the penalty for crimes that have been used to suppress opponents.

The action was taken one day after opposition leader and Kremlin sceptic Vladimir Kara-Murza was given a 25-year prison term for treason-related offences related to his criticism of the Ukrainian invasion.

The maximum sentence for high treason has been changed from 20 years to life in prison.

Since Putin dispatched soldiers to Ukraine more than a year ago, the Russian government has stepped up its repression of opposition groups.

The majority of the Kremlins main rivals have either left the country or are now detained.

The amendments also increase penalties for terrorism and sabotage.

Russias top opposition politician Alexei Navalny  currently serving a nine-year prison sentence  was last year added to the governments list of terrorists and extremists.

The Duma, the lower house of parliament, also moved to penalise assistance in executing the decisions of international organisations in which Russia does not participate, or foreign government agencies.

The new charges  which come after the International Criminal Court last month issued an arrest warrant for President Vladimir Putin  will be punishable by up to five years in prison.

According to monitoring group OVD-Info, the text of the article is very broad and could penalise facilitating the execution of judicial decisions as well as the investigation of war crimes.

Russian troops have been accused of multiple atrocities during Moscows offensive in Ukraine.

The bill will need the approval of the upper house of parliament and Putins signature before it becomes law.

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New Delhi: An appeal by American journalist Evan Gershkovich against his pretrial detention on espionage charges in Russia was rejected Tuesday by a Moscow court.

Gershkovich, a reporter for the Wall Street Journal, looked calm and smiled as he stood in a glass and metal cage, wearing a checked shirt with his arms folded in front of him.

He did not say anything, but turned around when one of the Russian reporters in the courtroom told him to Hold fast! and relayed to him that everyone said Hi. U.S. Ambassador Lynne Tracy stood nearby.

Russias FSB security service arrested Gershkovich on March 29 in the Urals city of Yekaterinburg on espionage charges that carry a possible 20-year prison sentence for collecting what it said were state secrets about the military-industrial complex, a charge he denies.

The Kremlin has said Gershkovich, the first U.S. journalist detained in Russia on espionage charges since the end of the Cold War, was caught red-handed.

The United States has deemed him wrongfully detained, his employer and colleagues have said he is innocent, and President Joe Biden has called his detention illegal.

Tuesdays hearing is essentially procedural, covering how Gershkovich should be detained as he awaits trial, not about the substance of the charges against him as investigators are still working on the details of the case.

Court documents gave nothing more than basic details about the case. The court said it was forbidden to publish some documents. A Russian lawyer for Gershkovich did not respond to a request for comment.

Gershkovich, the American son of Soviet emigres, is being held at the Lefortovo prison, which in Soviet times was run by the KGB but is now operated by the Federal Penitentiary Service.

Traditionally it has been used to hold those suspected by the FSB of spying and other grave crimes.

Tracy, the U.S. Ambassador, said on Monday she had made her first visit to Gershkovich.

He feels well and is holding up. We reiterate our call for Evans immediate release, Tracy said in a statement.

In Washington, the White House said it hopes to get regular consular access to Gershkovich.

It was good to get to see him today and again we want to make sure we can continue to do that, White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said.

The United States last week designated Gershkovich as wrongfully detained, in effect saying that the spy charges were bogus and the case was political.

The U.S. hostage envoy has pledged to do whatever it takes to bring home Gershkovich and Paul Whelan, an American ex-Marine who was convicted of espionage in 2020 and has also been designated by Washington as wrongfully detained.

A spokesperson for The Wall Street Journal did not respond on Monday to a request for comment.

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Brasilia: Russias Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met with Brazils President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Monday, reported AFP. Lula recently returned from a trip to China and the United Arab Emirates, during which he raised eyebrows in the West by accusing US of encouraging the war in Ukraine.

He also stated that the US and Europe need to start talking about peace, and that Kyiv bears responsibility for the war.

Russias Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov hailed Lula on Monday for his offer to facilitate peace negotiations to end the 14-month war, reported AFP.

But the visit, and Lulas recent remarks, sparked criticism from the White House, which has led support for Ukraine.

According to AFP, US National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said, In this case, Brazil is parroting Russian and Chinese propaganda without at all looking at the facts.

Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira, who had earlier spoken with Lavrov, responded afterwards, stating, I dont know how or why he reached that conclusion, but I do not agree at all.

Brazil has declined to join Western nations in sanctioning Russia for its incursion and has refused to supply munitions to Ukraine.

Before the trip, Lula had proposed creating a group of countries to mediate in the war, and said he would discuss this in Beijing.

After meeting with his Brazilian counterpart on Monday, Lavrov said: We are grateful to our Brazilian friends for their clear understanding of the genesis of the situation (in Ukraine). We are grateful for their desire to contribute to finding ways of settling this situation.

We are interested in resolving the conflict as soon as possible, Lavrov said.

But he added that any solution would have to be based on multipolarity, accusing the West of trying to dominate the international arena.

Lavrovs trip to Brazil comes after Lulas top foreign policy adviser, Celso Amorim, met with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin in March to discuss opening peace talks.

Brazil is Lavrovs first destination on a weeklong Latin American visit that will include include Venezuela, Nicaragua, and Cuba, all of whom have unfavourable relations with the US.

According to Lavrov and Vieira, their discussions also covered energy and trade.

About a quarter of Brazils fertiliser imports come from Russia, and the two nations had a record $9.8 billion in bilateral commerce last year, according to AFP.

With inputs from agencies

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Caracas, Venezuela: As Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov began his tour of Latin America on Tuesday, he urged like-minded nations to join forces against Western sanctions and blackmail.

In a conversation with his counterpart from Venezuela, Yvan Gil, on Russias conflict in Ukraine, Lavrov described Venezuela, Cuba, and Nicaragua as nations that choose their own path.

He emphasised that all are targets of harmful economic sanctions, just like Russia.

It is necessary to join forces to counter the attempts of blackmail and illegal unilateral pressure of the West, Lavrov said at a joint press conference with Gil.

Russias top diplomat is on a weeklong Latin American tour that started in Brazil and will also take him to Nicaragua and Cuba  countries whose leftist governments have hostile relations with the United States.

On Russias war, Lavrov said: We will resolve the situation by upholding the principles of the United Nations founding charter on the sovereign equity of states, on the principle of indivisibility of security.

Our task is to ensure that the UN charter is fully implemented, that the right to self-determination is not eliminated when it suits the West, he said, according to an official translation.

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Damascus: Saudi Arabia Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan will arrive in Damascus on Tuesday afternoon on the first visit by a Saudi top diplomat since the start of Syrias civil war, Syrias information ministry said.

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan is arriving at Damascus international airport today on an official visit to Syria, the ministry said in a statement, adding, The Saudi minister was due to arrive in the afternoon.

Arab cooperation with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, who has been politically isolated in the area since the start of the war, has increased in recent months.

A flurry of regional diplomatic activity has been underway in the past week as regional relations shift following a decision by Saudi Arabia and Iran to resume ties.

The visit comes less than a week after Syrian Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad visited Saudi Arabia, also on the first such visit since the start of the Syrian conflict in 2011.

In a meeting, Mekdad and his Saudi counterpart discussed the necessary steps to end Damascuss isolation, according to a Saudi statement issued on Wednesday.

Also last week, Arab countries gathered in the Saudi city of Jeddah to discuss ending Syrias long spell in the diplomatic wilderness.

Saudi change tack

Saudi Arabia severed ties with Assads government in 2012 and Riyadh had long openly championed Assads ouster, backing Syrian rebels in earlier stages of the war.

But a February 6 earthquake that wreaked devastation in Turkey and Syria sparked Arab outreach to Assads government, and the surprise rapprochement between Riyadh and Damascus-backer Tehran was announced the following month.

Prince Faisal had said in February that a consensus was building in the Arab world that a new approach to Syria requiring negotiations with Damascus would be needed to address humanitarian crises.

Riyadh sent aid to both rebel-held and government-controlled parts of Syria, but the effort did not involve direct contact with Assads government.

In March, Saudi state media had said that Riyadh and Damascus were in talks on resuming consular services.

Syrias war has killed more than half a million people, while around half of the countrys pre-war population has been forced from their homes.

With support from its allies Iran and Russia, Damascus has clawed back much of the ground lost in the early stages of the war.

Regional rivals Shiite Muslim Iran and Sunni powerhouse Saudi Arabia have supported opposing sides in several regional conflict zones including Yemen, and also vie for influence in Lebanon, Syria and Iraq.

With inputs from agencies

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Seoul: In order to better respond to North Korean threats, South Korea, the United States, and Japan conducted coordinated naval missile defence exercises on Monday. Pyongyang, meanwhile, accused Washington of escalating nuclear blackmail through military exercises.

In an effort to strengthen their military and political cooperation, the three countries decided to perform regular missile defence and anti-submarine drills during meetings on Friday in Washington.

As part of a recent uptick in its military actions, North Korea tested a new solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) on Friday, which analysts say might make it easier for missile launches with minimal advance notice.

Hours after the trilateral exercises, Ri Pyong Chol, vice president of the North Korean ruling partys Central Military Commission, issued a statement criticising the US for calling a UN Security Council meeting over its ICBM test.

The Norths weapons development was a self-defensive measure of defence against the US, Ri said. He accused Washington of raising regional tensions to the brink of explosion with military drills simulating a pre-emptive nuclear strike and an all-out war against the North.

The recent deployment of US strategic bombers was clear evidence that the US nuclear threat and blackmail against us has reached a level that cannot be overlooked, Ri said.

If the US ignores our repeated warnings and continues actions that endanger the security environment of the Korean peninsula, we will take necessary action so that it feels a clearer security crisis and insurmountable threat, he added.

US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield told the UN Security Council at Mondays meeting: Let me be clear, our lawful efforts to defend against the DPRKs repeated escalatory actions do not in any way justify the DPRKs unlawful behaviour.

North Korea  formally known as the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea (DPRK)  has been under UN sanctions for its missile and nuclear programs since 2006.

Deadlock

After years of unity, the 15-member UN Security Council is now deadlocked on how to deal with Pyongyang. The United States and several other members want the council to toughen sanctions on Pyongyang but veto-powers Russia and China are opposed.

Russias UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia described the meeting on Monday as unnecessary, adding that it would simply make the situation worse. Chinas UN Ambassador Zhang Jun said the situation on the Korean Peninsula was at a crossroads.

The United States and its allies should stop provocative military exercises, Zhang told Reuters. The other thing, which is also very much urgent, is the resumption of dialogue.

Mondays drills in international waters between Korea and Japan bring together South Koreas 7,600-tonne Aegis destroyer Yulgok Yi I, the US guided-missile destroyer Benfold, and Japans Atago destroyer, also equipped with Aegis radar systems.

The effort focuses on mastering response procedures, from detection and tracking to information-sharing, by creating a virtual target in a scenario featuring a North Korean ballistic missile provocation, the Souths navy said.

Pyongyang has threatened more practical and offensive action as South Korean and US forces have performed annual springtime exercises since March, some involving Japan, which the North has described as a rehearsal for nuclear war.

Separately, the air forces of South Korea and the United States are set to begin drills on Monday for a 12-day run.

Also on Monday, South Korea and Japan resumed two-plus-two talks of senior diplomatic and security officials in Seoul after a five-year halt, as their ties thaw after a years-long feud over issues of wartime history.

President Yoon Suk Yeol, who has pledged to move ties with Japan beyond the past, visited Tokyo in March for the first time in 12 years as South Koreas leader.

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New Delhi: Russian spies are using Tinder to target German politicians and soldiers in order to gather information about the Ukraine war, reported German newspaper Welt am Sonntag.

The report states that the Russian spies are specifically searching for politicians and Bundeswehr personnel on the dating app in an effort to recruit them as sources of information.

This is according to the MAD, also known as the Military Counterintelligence Service, of Germany.

As confirmed by MAD to Welt am Sonntag, members of other intelligence services (e.g. Russia) use social media to specifically establish contacts with members of the Bundeswehr in an effort to gather information and perhaps even recruit them.

According to Welt am Sonntag, the details were discussed at a gathering of NATO representatives in Germany.

Since Russias invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Germany has been one of Kyivs main allies, and thousands of Ukrainian soldiers have been trained there.

According to the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution of Germany, there are now as many Russian spies in Germany as there were during the Cold War, according to a report by Welt am Sonntag.

Prior to now, other governments around the world have issued warnings about the potential use of dating apps like Tinder by spies and foreign intelligence agencies to locate sources and gather data.

A representative of the US Department of Justice issued a warning in 2020 that information that users enter into dating apps may be accessed by foreign intelligence agencies.

Notably, Tinder users have the option to pay for a feature that enables international communication.

Tinder is already being used by Russia to gather information about its own citizens. In 2019, Russia ordered Tinder to hand over user data to the countrys intelligence service.

With inputs from agencies

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Kyiv: Ukraines foreign ministry on Tuesday slammed Brazils Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva for his recent demands for an end to the war with Russia, charging him of providing equal weight to both Ukraine and Russia.

While his state visits to China and the Middle East, Lula had claimed that Kyiv shares the blame for the conflict.

Lula had also stated that the US should stop encouraging war and start talking about peace.

Ukrainian foreign ministry spokesman Oleg Nikolenko wrote on Facebook that Kyiv is watching Lulas efforts to resolve the conflict with interest.

But Nikolenko said an approach that gives equal weighting to the victim and the aggressor and accuses countries that help Ukraine defend itself against deadly aggression of encouraging war, does not correspond to the real state of affairs.

The foreign ministry spokesman invited Lula to visit Ukraine to understand the real reasons and the essence of Russian aggression and the consequences for global security.

US National Security Council spokesman John Kirby on Monday accused Lula of parroting Russian and Chinese propaganda without at all looking at the facts, calling his message deeply problematic.

Lula met Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Monday as he visited Brasilia.

Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira rejected the White House criticism of Lula, saying: I do not agree at all.

Brazil has not joined Western nations in imposing sanctions on Russia over its invasion and has refused requests to supply ammunition to Ukraine.

With inputs from agencies

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Elon Musk, the billionaire, said on Monday that he will build an artificial intelligence (AI) platform called TruthGPT to compete with Microsoft and Googles products.

He accused Microsoft-backed OpenAI, the company behind chatbot phenomenon ChatGPT, of training the AI to lie, and said that OpenAI has now evolved into a closed source, for-profit outfit closely allied with Microsoft.

He also accused Google co-founder Larry Page of not taking AI safety seriously.

TruthGPT: The AI Chatbot that will show the candle to ChatGPT?

Im going to start something I call TruthGPT, or a maximum truth-seeking AI that tries to understand the nature of the universe, Musk stated in an interview with Tucker Carlson on Fox News Channel on Monday.

He stated that TruthGPT might be the best path to safety since it is unlikely to annihilate humans.

Also read: Elon Musk was furious with ChatGPTs popularity at debut after he pulled his investment and left OpenAI

Its just that its starting late. But Ill attempt to come up with a third solution, Musk stated.

According to sources familiar with the subject, Musk has been recruiting AI experts from Alphabet Incs Google in order to build a rival to OpenAI.

AIs dangers not being taken seriously, claims Musk

According to a state document, Musk created a company called X.AI Corp in Nevada last month. Musk was designated as the only director, with Jared Birchall, the managing director of Musks family office, serving as secretary.

The move comes despite Musk and a group of artificial intelligence researchers and industry leaders calling for a six-month moratorium on constructing systems more powerful than OpenAIs recently debuted GPT-4, citing possible societal hazards.

During the discussion with Carlson, Musk again restated his worries about AI, claiming that AI is more dangerous than, say, mismanaged aircraft design or production maintenance or bad car production, according to the excerpts.

It has the potential to destroy civilisations, he added.

Also read: Elon Musk and AI experts call for pause in development of AI systems that outperform GPT-4

For example, he stated that a very intelligent AI can write extremely effectively and perhaps sway public opinion. He tweeted over the weekend that he met with former US President Barack Obama and advised him that Washington needs to encourage AI regulation while he was president.

Musks long tryst with AI

Musk co-founded OpenAI in 2015, but he left the companys board of directors in 2018. In 2019, he stated that he was leaving OpenAI to work on Tesla and SpaceX.

He also stated on Twitter at the time that Tesla was competing for some of the same people as OpenAI & I didnt agree with some of what the OpenAI team wanted to do.

Also read: Twitter is working on a secret AI project, despite Elon Musk calling for a halt on all AI projects

Musk told Fox News that he recently valued Twitter at less than half of the acquisition price.

Microsoft Corp announced a new multibillion-dollar investment in OpenAI in January, increasing competition with competitor Google and fueling the battle for AI funding in Silicon Valley.

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On April 12th, Jio Cinema reported that 22 million or 2.2 crore viewers watched the CSK vs RR, Tata IPL match. Today, the company has announced that it has shattered its own record of viewership during the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) vs Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) match on April 17th, which clocked 24 million or 2.4 crore viewers.

In the current IPL 2023 season on the online live-streaming platform Jio Cinema, this is the highest ever viewership, said the company. In the last over of the second innings of the match, the number of viewers on Jio Cinema reached 24 million, said Jio Cinema.

This has broken the previous digital streaming viewership record for IPL which is 18.6 million by Disney+ Hotstar during the final match of the 2019 season, said the company.

2.4Cr  enough to fill the Chinnaswamy 600 times, a number befitting the incredible drama and spectacle of this wonder we call the #TATAIPL! To those who were part of history tonight, thank you. To those who werent, dont miss out next time #RCBvCSK #IPLonJioCinema #IPL2023 pic.twitter.com/U55eNLGr1e  JioCinema (@JioCinema) April 17, 2023

Viacom18 has the Tata IPL digital streaming rights from 2023-27, and the Disney Star has acquired the 5-year TV broadcast rights. Jio-Cinema said that digital is seeing its direct benefit, and it is streaming IPL matches for free, which has boosted IPLs viewership on the digital platform.

However, this might change from next year since the company is expected to start charging for the content soon after the IPL is over.

As the IPL moves towards the finals, the number of viewers on Jio-Cinema is expected to increase. The company said that millions of new viewers are connecting to IPL daily through its Jio Cinema app.

Jio-Cinema said that it is creating records in terms of sponsors and advertisers as well. It added that top global and Indian brands are gravitating towards Jio Cinema. Leaving TV behind, Jio-Cinema said that it has also tied up with 23 major sponsors.
Xiaomi just announced the Xiaomi 13 Ultra, the companys latest flagship smartphone, at an event in China, as it had promised. It has a 6.73-inch 2K OLED 1-120Hz LTPO C7 display with HDR10+, Dolby Vision and, up to a whopping 2600 nits brightness. The phone is powered by Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 SoC.

The phone has a Loop Liquid Cool technology. This uses Vapor liquid separation design, and One-way circulation structure that promises 3x cooling improvement over traditional VCs. This also ensures equivalent thermal conductivity more than three times that of traditional VCs, and heat dissipation capacity exceeds 10W, said the company.

Camera

The phone has quad 50MP rear cameras with 6 focal lengths, Leica optics and features Leica co-engineered Summicron lens. The phone has a 50MP 23mm Leica main camera uses a 1-inch IMX989 sensor and a new physical two-stop aperture switching between /1.9 and /4.0.

There are triple 50MP IMX858 sensors for ultrawide at 12mm, 3.2x telephoto at 75mm, and the new super-telephoto at 120mm, as well as the extra 46mm and 240mm lengths through the In-Sensor-Zoom. Three of the cameras feature an aperture wider than /2.0, which brings in more light and a soft, shallow depth of field, and allows for shorter shutter times, thus quicker capturing of natural and unmissable moments, said the company.

The phone supports end-to-end Dolby Vision recording and playback. It also supports up to 14-bit Ultra RAW photos, as well as 8K video and 10-bit Log.

Inspired by the hyperfocal distance shooting method commonly used by street photographers, there is a new Fast Shot mode that allows taking focus-free snapshots by setting the focus point manually, and later starting and capturing the moment in just 0.8s.

It has IP68 ratings for dust and water resistance. It uses second generation nanotech silicone leather technology that is not only resistant to fingerprints and smudges, but also is antibacterial and anti-yellowing, said Xiaomi. Its bacterial inhibition rate can reach as high as 99%, it added.

Battery

The Xiaomi 13 Ultra packs a 5,000mAh battery with support for 90W wired turbo charging and 50W wireless turbo charging as well as reverse wireless charging, thanks to Xiaomi Surge P2 Charging Chip and Xiaomi Surge G1 Battery Management Chip.

The phone has several battery health functions and can estimate the battery life at extremely granular levels, said Xiaomi. It has a new Hibernation mode, which will be automatically triggered when the battery is low, limiting background activities and offering up to 60 minutes of additional standby.

Xiaomi 13 Ultra specifications

6.73-inch (3200 x 1440 pixels) Quad HD+ AMOLED 20:9 HDR10 + display, 1-120Hz refresh rate, 240Hz touch sampling rate, up to 2600 nits peak brightness, 1920Hz PWM dimming, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, Corning Gorilla Glass Victus protection

Octa Core Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 4nm Mobile Platform with Adreno next-gen GPU

12GB LPPDDR5X RAM with 256GB (UFS 4.0) storage, 16GB LPPDDR5X RAM with 512GB / 1TB UFS 4.0 storage

Dual SIM (nano + nano)

MIUI 14 based on Android 13

50MP rear camera with 1 Sony IMX989 sensor,f/1.9  f/4.0 variable aperture, 23mm focal length, HyperOIS, 8P aspherical lens, LED flash, 50MP Sony IMX858 122 ultrawide angle lens with f/2.2 aperture, 12mm focal length, 5cm super macro 50MP Sony IMX858 telephoto camera with f/1.8 aperture, 75mm equivalent focal length, OIS, 3.2x optical zoom, 50MP Sony IMX858 periscope telephoto camera with f/3.0 aperture, 120mm equivalent focal length, OIS, 5x optical zoom, up to 120x digital zoom, Leica Summicron optics, Dolby Vision HDR video recording, 8K video recording

32MP front-facing camera with f/2.0 aperture

In-display fingerprint sensor with heart rate monitoring, Infrared sensor

USB Type-C audio, Hi-Res audio, Dual speakers, Dolby Atmos

Dust and water-resistant (IP68)

Dimensions: 163.1874.649.06mm; Weight: 227g

5G SA/NSA, Dual 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi 6E 802.11 ax, Bluetooth 5.3, GPS (L1 + L5), NavIC, USB Type-C USB 3.2 Gen 1, NFC

5000mAh (Typical) battery with 90W wired fast charging, 50W wireless charging, Reverse wireless charging

Pricing and availability

The Xiaomi 13 Ultra comes in Black, White and Olive Green colors and is priced at 5,999 yuan (US$ 872 / Rs. 71,545 approx.) for 12GB + 256GB, 6499 yuan (US$ 945 / Rs. 77,545 approx.) for 16GB+512GB and 7,299 yuan (US$ 1061 / Rs. 87,090 approx.) for 16GB+ 1TB model. It is available to order and will go on sale in China from April 21st.

Xiaomi has confirmed that the phone will roll out in several countries globally in the next few months.

Source
Hong Kong: FS begins Beijing visit

Financial Secretary Paul Chan started his visit to Beijing today by calling on the State Councils State-owned Assets Supervision & Administration Commission and meeting its Vice Chairman Zhao Shitang.

During the meeting, Mr Chan introduced the latest developments of Hong Kong's economy and society, saying that the city is forging a better integration of a proactive and capable government and an efficient market to attract and pool enterprises and talent with high quality.

He added that with innovation and technology as a major key and its financial advantages as strengths, Hong Kong will fully contribute to the high-quality development of the country, especially to the high-level self-reliance and greater strength in science and technology and the development of a dual circulation economy.

To tie in with the continued promotion of national development strategies and the Belt & Road Initiative, Mr Chan noted that Hong Kong welcomes central and state-owned enterprises to make full use of its fundraising platform and professional services as a foothold to expand and further develop their international business, including spinning off overseas businesses for listing in Hong Kong, issuance of bonds, and setting up overseas business headquarters, corporate treasury centres and captive insurance companies in the city.

The finance chief also met Ministry of Human Resources & Social Security Vice Minister Li Zhong and others to exchange views on the development experiences of retirement pension systems on the Mainland and in Hong Kong.

Mr Chan indicated that Hong Kongs financial market and services can help with asset allocation in respect of the investment of the Mainlands pension system.

He then toured a web technology company where he introduced the Hong Kong market's advantages and the latest policies for attracting enterprises and investment, and encouraged them to expand their business in Hong Kong.

Secretary for Commerce & Development Algernon Yau also joined the visit.

This story has been published on: 2023-04-18. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Press Release

April 17, 2023 STATEMENT OF SENATOR RISA HONTIVEROS ON CHINA AMBASSADOR AND PH CONTINGENCY PLAN FOR 150,000 OFWS IN TAIWAN Before any contingency plan is carried out, we, as a country, must again first communicate to Beijing that their representative should not be making statements threatening our people. We heard the Chinese Ambassador's speech very clearly, so I hope he stops making excuses for his ill-advised pronouncements. My statement asking for the Palace to recall the ambassador still stands. China must observe international humanitarian law and avoid deliberately targeting civilians, especially those of a nation not involved in the threatened hostilities. And if worse comes to worst, of course, Malacanang should indeed have a contingency plan. The prospective loss of livelihood of 150,000 OFWs will have to be addressed. Our labor agencies should already have strategies in place to prepare for this scenario. We should also continue to strengthen our economic relationship with Taiwan to ensure that jobs of our OFWs are secured. Our government has rescued distressed nationals abroad many times in the past, and I know our state agencies can again come together to help our citizens in Taiwan, should danger ensue.
Iti doresti o presa libera si independenta, care nu da inapoi cand vine vorba de respectarea standardelor profesionale, refuza sa se lase cenzurata, sustine independenta justitiei, transparenta decizionala si valorile democratice. Alege sa o sustii.
amasan1 at 18-04-2023 07:11 AM (1 week ago) (m)

The EUs ambassador in Sudan has been assaulted in his home in Khartoum, top EU diplomat Josep Borrell has said.

The EUs ambassador in Sudan has been assaulted in his home in Khartoum, top EU diplomat Josep Borrell has said.

Security of diplomatic premises and staff is a primary responsibility of Sudanese authorities, Mr Borrell wrote on Twitter.

Although Mr Borrell didnt name him, the EUs ambassador to Sudan is Aidan OHara, an Irish diplomat.

Monday was Sudans third day of fighting between the army and a paramilitary group called the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Both sides claimed to control key sites in Khartoum, where residents sheltered from explosions.

More than 1,800 civilians and fighters have been injured according to Volker Perthes, the United Nations envoy for Sudan.

He told reporters on Monday that around 185 people had died. Security of diplomatic premises and staff is a primary responsibility of Sudanese authorities, Mr Borrell wrote on Twitter.Although Mr Borrell didnt name him, the EUs ambassador to Sudan is Aidan OHara, an Irish diplomat.Monday was Sudans third day of fighting between the army and a paramilitary group called the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).Both sides claimed to control key sites in Khartoum, where residents sheltered from explosions.More than 1,800 civilians and fighters have been injured according to Volker Perthes, the United Nations envoy for Sudan.He told reporters on Monday that around 185 people had died.

Post Reply I am an investigative reporter at Gistmania, I conduct fact-finding investigative journalism. Posted: at 18-04-2023 07:11 AM (1 week ago) | Hero
Alphabet Loses $57 Billion As Samsung Replaces Google Search with Microsoft BingChat News oi -Nachiket Mhatre

Alphabet, Google's parent company, witnessed a dramatic fall in stock prices as reports emerged about Samsung possibly replacing Google with Microsoft's Bing as the default search engine on its devices. Alphabet's stocks plummeted about 4%, shedding nearly $57 billion in market value.

Google currently earns about $3 billion annually from its contract with Samsung, as stated in a New York Times report. Google also has a similar $20 billion contract with Apple, which is up for renewal this year.

Microsoft Pips Google in AI Race With OpenAI Investment

Microsoft has surged ahead in the AI race, primarily due to its partnership with OpenAI and the integration of the AI technology behind ChatGPT. Google has dominated the search market with a share of over 80 percent for decades.

However, the rapid advancements in AI have left Wall Street concerned that Google may lag behind Microsoft in this fast-paced race.

In February, Alphabet lost $100 billion in market value following the botched unveiling of its chatbot, Bard. Google has reportedly returned to the drawing board, working on Magi, an AI-powered personalized search engine designed to compete with Bing and ChatGPT.

A Sign of Google's Impending Downfall?

The integration of AI technology like ChatGPT in search engines offers numerous benefits to users. Google's alarm at the possibility of Samsung choosing Microsoft Bing as its default browser is understandable, given that the company earns an estimated $3 billion in annual revenue from the Samsung contract.

If Samsung and Microsoft's deal materializes, not only would Google lose a $3 billion contract, but it would also risk losing a valuable partner. This shift could also affect other partnerships, such as the one with Apple, which has a $20 billion contract with Google that is up for renewal this year.

As Alphabet's stock fell to $104.90, nearly $50 billion was erased from its market capitalization. In contrast, Microsoft outperformed the broader market, witnessing a rise of 1%. Google reportedly plans to integrate AI capabilities into its search engine to remain competitive in the market.

Google's Failure to Capitalize on AI

While Google has been a forerunner in AI technology, it did not capitalize on the opportunity like OpenAI did with ChatGPT, leading to an AI goldrush that has outshined trends like NFTs and the Metaverse. Microsoft quickly seized the opportunity and signed a deal with OpenAI, launching BingChat, which rapidly gained internet popularity.

Google's future plans involve developing an all-new AI-powered search engine that provides a more personalized experience than its current service. This new search engine will also be upgraded with AI features to compete with AI-driven rivals like Bing. Both Alphabet and Samsung have yet to comment on the situation.

Wake Up Call for Google Investors

This development serves as a wake-up call for Google, as investors fear the company may have become a complacent monopolist in the search market. Google's lack of initiative towards making its primary Search business benefit from AI will see it continue losing out to the AI-powered rival Bing.

The time and capital required to make Google Search competitive could, if at all, also cause concern for the company.

Best Mobiles in India

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Apple CEO Tim Cook inaugurates first retail store in Mumbai; Meets Ambani, Chandra News oi -Nachiket Mhatre

Apple CEO Tim Cook greeted enthusiastic fans as he inaugurated the company's first retail store in Mumbai, India on Tuesday. Cook traveled to India to attend the store's launch, marking Apple's first foray into the Indian retail market. The store is located in the upscale Bandra Kurla Complex, and its design draws inspiration from the iconic black-and-yellow taxis found throughout Mumbai.

The Mumbai store is the result of years of effort by Apple and Cook to establish a retail presence in the South Asian country. Plans for an Indian store were initially announced in 2020, with a targeted opening date of 2021. However, the COVID-19 pandemic forced the company to postpone its plans. Apple will open a second retail store in New Delhi on Thursday, marking the company's first expansion into a new country since 2018.

Apple's Post China Strategy Shift

Previously, Apple relied on third-party sellers and an online store to sell its products in India. Cook described the previous arrangement as "sub-optimal" in 2020, saying, "I don't want somebody else to run the brand for us."

In India, Apple's premium iPhones have captured only 4% of the smartphone market, as consumers have turned to more affordable local, Chinese, and South Korean brands. Despite this, Apple's India sales have grown, reaching $6 billion in the year ending March, up from $4.1 billion a year earlier, according to Bloomberg.

Thanks @madhuridixit for introducing me to my very first Vada Pav  it was delicious! https://t.co/Th40jqAEGa  Tim Cook (@tim_cook) April 17, 2023

India's Role in Apple's Supply Chain

India is increasingly playing a larger role in Apple's supply chain. Last year, 7% of iPhones were produced in India, worth around $7 billion and triple the level from the previous year. Apple supplier Foxconn is reportedly planning a new $700 million plant in Karnataka, India, which would employ 100,000 workers.

During his visit, Cook also met with Indian business leaders such as Mukesh Ambani, head of Reliance Industries, and Natarajan Chandrasekaran, chairman of Tata Sons. He is expected to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his trip.

Hello, Mumbai! We cant wait to welcome our customers to the new Apple BKC tomorrow.  pic.twitter.com/9V5074OA8W  Tim Cook (@tim_cook) April 17, 2023

Apple's Impact on the Premium Smartphone Market

The launch of Apple's retail stores in India represents a significant branding strategy, as the company seeks to deepen its retail push in the world's second-largest smartphone market. While experts believe the stores may not immediately impact Apple's sales in India, they are expected to draw more consumers into the Apple ecosystem, particularly in the growing premium smartphone market.

In addition to India, Apple has made moves to diversify its production infrastructure to other emerging Asian nations. These include Vietnam and Thailand, where Apple suppliers have reportedly made investments to this effect. Additionally, Apple began hiring store managers in Malaysia in January, indicating a potential retail expansion into the Southeast Asian country.

The opening of Apple's first retail store in India coincides with the company celebrating 25 years of presence in the country. As part of its expansion plans, Apple is also focusing on new environmental initiatives and strengthening its ties with the Indian developer community.

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April 17, 2023

By David Vergun , DOD News

DOD Assessing Document Disclosures and Implementing Mitigation Measures

The Defense Department continues to actively address the incident involving the unauthorized disclosure of classified documents, said Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh at a news conference today.

Massachusetts Air National Guard Airman 1st Class Jack Teixeira, 21, was arrested April 13, by the FBI at his family's residence in Dighton, Massachusetts, in connection with an investigation into alleged unauthorized removal, retention and transmission of classified national defense information.

The department is taking this breach seriously, Singh said. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III and senior Pentagon officials "continue to convene daily meetings to examine the scope and scale of this disclosure, as well as ensure that appropriate mitigation measures are being taken."

In support of this effort, the secretary has formally directed Ronald S. Moultrie, undersecretary of defense for intelligence and security, in coordination with John Sherman, chief information officer, and Michael B. Donley, the director of administration and management, to lead a comprehensive review of DOD security, programs, policies and procedures, Singh said.

Within 45 days the secretary will be provided with initial findings and recommendations to improve the department's policies and procedures related to the protection of classified information, she said.

The department is in close contact with the White House, Congress, interagency partners, and allies and partners, she said.

Addressing the media, Singh said: "We'd encourage you to be mindful of how you are reporting and repurposing these images due to the classified nature of this information and the potential impact on national security, as well as the safety and security of our personnel, and those of our allies and partners."

Separately, Singh said the department has publicly acknowledged previously that there is a small U.S. military footprint in Ukraine which is providing mission-critical support to the U.S. embassy, the defense attache office in support of security assistance programs. This is not new news, she added.

"To be clear, there are no U.S. combat troops conducting combat operations in Ukraine," she said.

On another Ukraine topic, Singh said Austin spoke with Oleksii Reznikov, Ukraine's defense minister today.

Both leaders discussed the security situation in Ukraine and the secretary looks forward to his own meeting later this week at the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, she said.

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40 Officers of China's National Police Charged in Transnational Repression Schemes Targeting U.S. Residents

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Monday, April 17, 2023

Defendants Accused of Creating Fake Social Media Accounts to Harass PRC Dissidents, and Working with Employees of a U.S. Telecommunications Company to Remove Dissidents from Company's Platform

Two criminal complaints filed by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of New York were unsealed today in federal court in Brooklyn charging 44 defendants with various crimes related to efforts by the national police of the People's Republic of China (PRC) - the Ministry of Public Security (MPS) - to harass Chinese nationals residing in the New York metropolitan area and elsewhere in the United States. The defendants, including 40 MPS officers and two officials in the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC), allegedly perpetrated transnational repression schemes targeting U.S. residents whose political views and actions are disfavored by the PRC government, such as advocating for democracy in the PRC.

In the two schemes, the defendants created and used fake social media accounts to harass and intimidate PRC dissidents residing abroad and sought to suppress the dissidents' free speech on the platform of a U.S. telecommunications company (Company-1). The defendants charged in these schemes are believed to reside in the PRC or elsewhere in Asia and remain at large.

"These cases demonstrate the lengths the PRC government will go to silence and harass U.S. persons who exercise their fundamental rights to speak out against PRC oppression, including by unlawfully exploiting a U.S.-based technology company," said Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department's National Security Division. "These actions violate our laws and are an affront to our democratic values and basic human rights."

"China's Ministry of Public Security used operatives to target people of Chinese descent who had the courage to speak out against the Chinese Communist Party - in one case by covertly spreading propaganda to undermine confidence in our democratic processes and, in another, by suppressing U.S. video conferencing users' free speech," said Acting Assistant Director Kurt Ronnow of the FBI Counterintelligence Division. "We aren't going to tolerate CCP repression - its efforts to threaten, harass, and intimidate people - here in the United States. The FBI will continue to confront the Chinese government's efforts to violate our laws and repress the rights and freedoms of people in our country."

Disclosure: U.S. Attorney Breon Peace for the Eastern District of New York is recused from and has not participated in the case captioned United States v. Julien Jin et al., 20-mj-1103.

United States v. Yunpeng Bai, et al.

The two-count complaint charges 34 MPS officers with conspiracy to transmit interstate threats and conspiracy to commit interstate harassment. All the defendants are believed to reside in the PRC, and they remain at large.

As alleged, the officers worked with Beijing's MPS bureau and are or were assigned to an elite task force called the "912 Special Project Working Group" (the Group). The purpose of the Group is to target Chinese dissidents located throughout the world, including in the United States.

"As alleged, the PRC government deploys its national police and the 912 Special Project Working Group not as an instrument to uphold the law and protect public safety, but rather as a troll farm that attacks persons in our country for exercising free speech in a manner that the PRC government finds disagreeable, and also spreads propaganda whose sole purpose is to sow divisions within the United States," said U.S. Attorney Breon Peace for the Eastern District of New York. "I commend the investigative team for comprehensively revealing the insidiousness of a state-directed criminal scheme directed at residents of the United States."

The complaint alleges how members of the Group created thousands of fake online personas on social media sites, including Twitter, to target Chinese dissidents through online harassment and threats. These online personas also disseminated official PRC government propaganda and narratives to counter the pro-democracy speech of the Chinese dissidents. As alleged, for example, Group members created and maintained the fake social media accounts through temporary email addresses, posted official PRC government content, and interacted with other online users to avoid the appearance that the Group accounts were "flooding" a given social media platform. The Group tracks the performances of members in fulfilling their online responsibilities and rewards Group members who successfully operate multiple online personas without detection by the social media companies who host the platforms or by other users of the platforms.

The investigation also uncovered official MPS taskings to Group members to compose articles and videos based on certain themes targeting, for example, the activities of Chinese dissidents located abroad or the policies of the U.S. government.

As alleged, the defendants also attempted to recruit U.S. persons to act as unwitting agents of the PRC government by disseminating propaganda or narratives of the PRC government. On several occasions, the defendants used online personas to contact individuals assessed to be sympathetic and supportive of the PRC government's narratives and asked these individuals to disseminate Group content.

In addition, Group members took repeated affirmative actions to have Chinese dissidents and their meetings removed from the platform of Company-1. For example, Group members disrupted a dissident's efforts to commemorate the Tiananmen Square Massacre through a videoconference by posting threats against the participants through the platform's chat function. In another Company-1 videoconference on the topic of countering communism organized by a PRC dissident, Group members flooded the videoconference and drowned out the meeting with loud music and vulgar screams and threats directed at the pro-democracy participants.

United States v. Julien Jin, et al.

This amended complaint charges 10 individuals, including a former PRC-based Company-1 employee, six MPS officers, and two officials with the CAC, with conspiracy to commit interstate harassment and unlawful conspiracy to transfer means of identification. Nine of the defendants are believed to reside in the PRC and remain at large. The tenth defendant is believed to reside in Indonesia or the PRC and also remains at large.

"The amended complaint charging a former PRC-based employee of a U.S. telecommunications company illustrates the insider threat faced by U.S. companies operating in the PRC," said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Pokorny for the Eastern District of New York, who thanked Company-1 for its cooperation in the government's investigation. "As alleged, Julien Jin and his co-conspirators in the Ministry of Public Security and Cyberspace Administration of China weaponized the U.S. telecommunications company he worked for to intimidate and silence dissenters and enforce PRC law to the detriment of Chinese activists in New York, among other places, who had sought refuge in this country to peacefully express their pro-democracy views."

"These cases demonstrate that the Chinese Communist Party, once again, attempted to intimidate, harass, and suppress Chinese dissidents in the United States," said Assistant Director in Charge David Sundberg of the FBI Washington Field Office. "In the United States, the freedom of speech is a cornerstone of our democracy, and the FBI will work tirelessly to defend everyone's right to speak freely without fear of retribution from the CCP. These complex investigations revealed an MPS-wide effort to repress individuals by using the U.S. communications platform and fake social media accounts to censor political and religious speech."

In December 2020, the Department first announced charges against Julien Jin in connection with his efforts to disrupt a series of meetings on the Company-1 platform held in May and June 2020 commemorating the 1989 Tiananmen Square Massacre. Jin served as Company-1's primary liaison with PRC government law enforcement and intelligence services. In that capacity, he regularly responded to requests from the PRC government to terminate meetings and block users on Company-1's video communications platform.

As detailed in the original complaint, Jin and others conspired to use Company-1's U.S. systems to censor the political and religious speech of individuals located in the United States and elsewhere at the direction of the PRC government. For example, Jin and others disrupted meetings held on the Company-1 platform to discuss politically sensitive topics unacceptable to the PRC government - including the Tiananmen Square Massacre. Jin and his co-conspirators fabricated evidence of purported misconduct to cause U.S.-based employees of Company-1 to terminate the meetings.

The allegations in the amended complaint reveal that Jin worked directly with and took orders from defendants at the MPS and the CAC to disrupt meetings on the Company-1 platform and that the co-defendants had targeted U.S.-based dissidents' speech on Company-1's platform since 2018.

Starting in 2018, Jin and his co-defendants repeatedly sought to terminate video chat meetings organized by a Chinese dissident residing in New York City who has been a vocal critic of the PRC government and the Chinese Communist Party. After the CAC requested that Company-1 terminate the dissident's meetings on the Company-1 platform, Jin worked to identify all accounts associated with the dissident, caused meetings related to the dissident to be hosted in a "quarantine zone" - that is, on a server with known lags in response time - and later worked to block all accounts associated with the dissident. Similarly, in 2019, Jin collaborated with the MPS and CAC to block accounts seeking to commemorate the Tiananmen Square Massacre.

The FBI Washington Field Office investigated the cases.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexander A. Solomon, Antoinette N. Rangel, Ian C. Richardson, Nicholas J. Moscow and Jessica K. Weigel of the Eastern District of New York, and Trial Attorney Scott A. Claffee of the National Security Division's Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the cases.

The FBI has created a website for victims to report efforts by foreign governments to stalk, intimidate, or assault people in the United States. Please visit: www.fbi.gov/investigate/counterintelligence/transnational-repression.

Topic(s): Countering Nation-State Threats

National Security

Component(s): Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

National Security Division (NSD)

Press Release Number: 23-422

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Two Arrested for Operating Illegal Overseas Police Station of the Chinese Government

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Monday, April 17, 2023

Defendants Are New York City Residents Who Allegedly Operated the Police Station in Lower Manhattan and Destroyed Evidence When Confronted by the FBI

A complaint was unsealed today in federal court in Brooklyn, New York, charging two defendants in connection with opening and operating an illegal overseas police station, located in lower Manhattan, New York, for a provincial branch of the Ministry of Public Security (MPS) of the People's Republic of China (PRC). "Harry" Lu Jianwang, 61, of the Bronx, and Chen Jinping, 59, of Manhattan, were arrested earlier this morning at their homes in New York City. Their initial appearances are scheduled this afternoon in Brooklyn before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ramon E. Reyes Jr.

As alleged in the complaint, Lu and Chen are charged with conspiring to act as agents of the PRC government as well as obstructing justice by destroying evidence of their communications with an MPS official. The defendants worked together to establish the first overseas police station in the United States on behalf of the Fuzhou branch of the MPS. The police station - which closed in the fall of 2022 after those operating it became aware of the FBI's investigation - occupied a floor in an office building in Manhattan's Chinatown. While acting under the direction and control of an MPS Official, Lu and Chen helped open and operate the clandestine police station. None of the participants in the scheme informed the U.S. government that they were helping the PRC government surreptitiously open and operate an illegal MPS police station on U.S. soil.

"The PRC, through its repressive security apparatus, established a secret physical presence in New York City to monitor and intimidate dissidents and those critical of its government," said Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department's National Security Division. "The PRC's actions go far beyond the bounds of acceptable nation-state conduct. We will resolutely defend the freedoms of all those living in our country from the threat of authoritarian repression."

"This prosecution reveals the Chinese government's flagrant violation of our nation's sovereignty by establishing a secret police station in the middle of New York City," said U.S. Attorney Breon Peace for the Eastern District of New York. "As alleged, the defendants and their co-conspirators were tasked with doing the PRC's bidding, including helping locate a Chinese dissident living in the United States, and obstructed our investigation by deleting their communications. Such a police station has no place here in New York City - or any American community."

"It is simply outrageous that China's Ministry of Public Security thinks it can get away with establishing a secret, illegal police station on U.S. soil to aid its efforts to export repression and subvert our rule of law," said Acting Assistant Director Kurt Ronnow of the FBI Counterintelligence Division. "This case serves as a powerful reminder that the People's Republic of China will stop at nothing to bend people to their will and silence messages they don't want anyone to hear. The FBI is dedicated to protecting everyone in the United States against efforts to undermine our democratic freedoms, and we'll hold any state actors - and those who help them - accountable for breaking our laws."

Before helping to open the police station in early 2022, Lu had a longstanding relationship of trust with PRC law enforcement, including the MPS. Since 2015, and through the operation of the secret police station, Lu was tasked with carrying out various activities, including to assist the PRC government's repressive activities on U.S. soil:

In 2015, during PRC President Xi Jinping's visit to the United States, Lu participated in counterprotests in Washington, D.C,. against members of a religion that is forbidden under PRC law. A deputy director of the MPS awarded Lu a plaque for the work he performed on behalf of the PRC government.

In 2018, Lu was enlisted in efforts to cause a purported PRC fugitive to return to the PRC. The victim reported being repeatedly harassed to return to the PRC, including through threats of violence made to the victim and the victim's family in the United States and in the PRC.

In 2022, the MPS Official sought Lu's assistance in locating an individual living in California who is a pro-democracy activist. In turn, Lu enlisted the help of another coconspirator. Later, when confronted by the FBI about these conversations, Lu denied that they occurred.

In October 2022, the FBI conducted a judicially authorized search of the illegal police station. In connection with the search, FBI agents interviewed both Lu and Chen and seized their phones. In reviewing the contents of these phones, FBI agents observed that communications between Lu and Chen, on the one hand, and the MPS Official, on the other, appeared to have been deleted. In subsequent consensual interviews, Lu and Chen admitted to the FBI that they had deleted their communications with the MPS Official after learning about the ongoing FBI investigation, thus preventing the FBI from learning the full extent of the MPS's directions for the overseas police station.

If convicted of conspiring to act as agents of the PRC, the defendants face a maximum sentence of five years in prison. The obstruction of justice charge carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.

The FBI New York Field Office investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexander A. Solomon and Antoinette N. Rangel for the Eastern District of New York, and Trial Attorney Scott A. Claffee of the National Security Division's Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case.

The FBI has created a website for victims to report efforts by foreign governments to stalk, intimidate, or assault people in the United States. If you believe that you are or have been a victim of transnational repression, please visit: www.fbi.gov/investigate/counterintelligence/transnational-repression.

The charges in the complaint are merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Topic(s): Countering Nation-State Threats

National Security

Component(s): Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

National Security Division (NSD)

Press Release Number: 23-421

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US Brings Charges Over Secret Chinese Police Outpost

By Masood Farivar April 17, 2023

The FBI on Monday arrested two New York City residents for allegedly operating a secret, illegal police station for China's Ministry of Public Security in the city's Chinatown neighborhood.

The station, one of more than 100 China operates around the world ostensibly to help its citizens renew documents such as driver's licenses, allegedly had a more sinister purpose: to monitor and harass Chinese activists and dissidents in the United States as part of what U.S. prosecutors call China's "transnational repression" campaign.

Harry Lu Jianwang and Chen Jinping, both U.S. citizens and leaders of a Chinatown non-profit, were arrested Monday morning on charges of conspiring to act as agents of the Chinese government, and obstruction of justice for destroying evidence of their communication with a Chinese security official.

The first charge carries a sentence of up to five years in prison, while the second charge calls for a maximum prison sentence of up to 20 years.

The men made their initial court appearances Monday afternoon.

In two other related schemes unveiled Monday, prosecutors charged a group of 34 officers of the Chinese ministry of public security with creating thousands of fake online personas to threaten and harass Chinese dissidents, and another group of six Chinese public security personnel with directing a China-based employee of video conference provider Zoom to remove Chinese dissidents from the company's platform. The tech executive, Julien Jin, was first charged in 2020.

The charges, announced by top law enforcement officials in New York, come amid growing tensions between China and the United States over a range of issues - from Beijing's claim over Taiwan to Chinese transnational repression activities.

Calling the Chinese police station's operation in New York a "flagrant violation of our nation's sovereignty," U.S. Attorney Breon Peace of the Eastern District of New York, said the three cases cast a spotlight on China's "transnational repression activities."

The cases "shed further light on the extent of the PRC government's efforts to project its authoritarian worldview on the residents of this city and this country," Peace said.

The embassy of China in Washington did not respond to a VOA request for comment. But China's foreign ministry in the past has described the stations as "service centers" catering to its citizens around the world.

The existence of the New York outpost came to light in September 2022 after a Spain-based human rights group, Safeguard Defenders, released an investigative report on a network of dozens of stations around the world, saying it was part of China's "growing transnational repression."

It is not clear when the FBI began looking into the New York station. But in November 2022, FBI Director Christopher Wray, appearing before a congressional panel, confirmed the bureau was investigating the operation, vowing to put a stop to China's illegal law enforcement activities in the United States.

According to prosecutors, the station operated between February and October 2022.

Acting at the direction of the Fuzhou Municipal Public Security Bureau, a provincial arm of the Chinese ministry of public security, Lu and Chen set up the station in February but closed it in October after getting wind of the FBI probe.

Charging documents identified the two men as top leaders of a nonprofit organization in Lower Manhattan that describes its mission as a "social gathering place for Fujianese people," prosecutors said.

The New York Post last year identified the charity as America ChangLe Association NY Inc. and said it owned and operated the alleged police station above a noodle restaurant in Chinatown.

U.S. prosecutors allege that Lu, who maintains a home in China, has had "a long-standing relationship of trust" with the Chinese government.

In 2015 during Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to the United States, Lu allegedly took part in counterprotests against members of Falun Gong, a religious movement banned in China.

In 2018, he was enlisted by Chinese security officials to facilitate the return of a purported Chinese fugitive to China; in 2022, he was asked to locate a pro-democracy activist living in California.

FBI agents executed a search warrant at the Chinese police station in October, seizing Lu and Chen's cellphones, according to the charging document.

In interviews with the FBI, the two men admitted that they had deleted their communications with their primary ministry of public security liaison after learning about the federal investigation.

In addition to Lu and Chen, five other members of the Chinatown nonprofit supported the police station's operations, according to the criminal complaint.

None of them registered as agents of a foreign government with the Justice Department, which suggests that more arrests and charges related to the illegal operation of the police station case may be coming.

In a statement, Matt Olsen, assistant attorney general for national security, said China's efforts go far beyond the bounds of acceptable nation-state conduct.

"We will resolutely defend the freedoms of all those living in our country from the threat of authoritarian repression," he said.

In an updated report in December 2022, Safeguard Defenders said there were 102 Chinese overseas police service centers in 53 countries around the world.

Law enforcement authorities in 14 countries have launched investigations into the police stations, according to Safeguard Defenders.

U.S. law enforcement officials declined to comment on whether China is operating other stations in the United States.

But Safeguard Defenders says its research indicates the presence of a second Chinese police station based in Los Angeles.

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Lithuanian Partners Complete U.S. Army Flight Course

By Maj. Travis Mueller, Joint Force Headquarters - Pennsylvania National Guard April 17, 2023

FORT INDIANTOWN GAP, Pa. -- Lithuania air force Capt. Matas Leckas and Capt. Valius Urbonas became the first Lithuanian pilots to graduate from the UH-60M Aviator Qualification Course at the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence at Fort Novosel, Alabama, April 4.

The Pennsylvania National Guard has partnered with Lithuania since 1993 as part of the National Guard Bureau's State Partnership Program. Regular engagements and exchange training are crucial to that partnership.

"The Pennsylvania National Guard will see the fruits of its labor every time a Lithuanian counterpart graduates from an aviation training school," said U.S. Air Force Capt. Nathaniel Curtis, a State Partnership Program coordinator with the Pennsylvania National Guard. "The ongoing rotary wing engagements with Pennsylvania ensure Lithuania is prepared for their incoming UH-60M Black Hawks, which may lead to future pilot and maintenance training exchanges for both partners."

The Lithuania air force will soon add UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters to their fleet. The UH-60M is a newer, more advanced model of the UH-60. Sikorsky Aircraft began producing M models in 2006 to fulfill the U.S. Army's goal of replacing its aging UH-60 fleet.

Army Maj. Michael Bertsch, commander of the Army Aviation Support Facility, said Pennsylvania Army National Guard aviators are helping Lithuania prepare to reduce the friction they could face when they field the new airframe.

"In spring of 2022, a Pennsylvania Army National Guard aviation enterprise team comprised of UH-60M subject matter experts visited Lithuania to tour the aviation maintenance facilities and offer suggestions on how to prepare for fielding UH-60M Black Hawks and assist in developing training strategies," said Bertsch. "This trip laid the foundation for future visits and events with our partner nation."

In addition to attending Leckas and Urbonas's graduation on April 4 to show their support, Pennsylvania Army aviation leaders have regularly traveled between the two countries and around the United States to advance the partnership.

Since 2022, Soldiers with Pennsylvania's Army aviation community attended UH-60M program management reviews in Lithuania and Huntsville, Alabama, with another planned in Lithuania this year. They also hosted the Lithuanian air force commander at Fort Indiantown Gap for a tour and briefing.

Curtis said that although Lithuania will conduct formal helicopter training at Fort Novosel, additional on-the-job training with the Pennsylvania Army National Guard may supplement Lithuania's training objectives and help keep their aviators' certifications current.

"Lithuania's steadfast and motivated approach to aviation matches their Pennsylvania counterparts," said Curtis. "The Lithuanian air force is ready and prepared for their incoming aircraft. Rather than wait, the Lithuanian air force is proactively sending their aviators and maintainers routinely to Army aviation schools in the United States to ensure they are ready to begin operations immediately when their UH-60M Black Hawks arrive."

The Lithuanian air force features a robust aviation maintenance program and has much in common with the Pennsylvania Army National Guard.

"I believe offering these types of opportunities to our Lithuanian partners is mutually benefiting and invaluable to both nations," said Bertsch. "The Pennsylvania Army National Guard stands ready to provide aircraft maintenance and training recommendations, lessons learned, best practices, training opportunities and support as the Lithuanian air force fields the UH-60M. We will continue to strengthen the relationships and offer to provide guidance and training in the aviation maintenance realm."

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April 17, 2023

Transcript

Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh Holds a Press Briefing

Sabrina Singh, Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary

DEPUTY PRESS SECRETARY SABRINA SINGH: Hey, everyone. Good afternoon. Apologies for the delay here. I have a few items to take -- to relay at the top, and then I'm happy to jump in and take your questions.

So the Department of Defense continues to actively address the incident involving the unauthorized disclosure of classified documents. As the Secretary made clear in his statement last Thursday, DOD's highest priority is the defense of our nation and our national security, and the department is taking this breach seriously and continues to work around the clock to better understand the scope and scale of these leaks. Throughout last week and over the course of the weekend, the Secretary and senior Pentagon officials continue to convene daily meetings to examine the scope and scale of this disclosure, as well as ensure that appropriate mitigation measures are being taken.

In support of this effort, the Secretary has formally directed Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security, in coordination with the Chief Information Officer and the Director of Administration and Management to lead a comprehensive review of DOD security, programs, policies and procedures. Within 45 days, I&S will provide the Secretary with initial findings and recommendations to improve the department's policies and procedures related to the protection of classified information. We'll have more to say soon on more immediate actions that we will be taking. We continue to be in close touch with the White House and interagency and have also continued to engage with our partners and allies at high levels both within DOD and throughout the interagency. We will also continue to engage with Congress.

Again, we'd encourage you to be mindful of how you are reporting and repurposing these images due to the classified nature of this information and the potential impact on national security, as well as the safety and security of our personnel and those of our allies and partners.

And finally, I also want to take a moment to address something we've seen in press reports that warrant us relaying the facts. With regard to the U.S. military presence in Ukraine, we've publicly acknowledged previously that there is a small U.S. military footprint in Ukraine to provide mission-critical support to the U.S. Embassy. To be clear, there are no U.S. combat troops conducting combat operations in Ukraine. And while we're not going to go into the specific disposition of our forces for OPSEC reasons, their duties include support to the Defense Attache Office in support of our security assistance programs and end-use monitoring, as well as U.S. Embassy security support. This is not new, and again, something we've been transparent about and publicly with Congress as well.

Separately, earlier today, Secretary Austin spoke with Ukraine's Minister of Defense Reznikov. During the call, both leaders discussed the security situation in Ukraine, and the secretary looks forward to the meeting later this week at the Ukraine Defense Contact Group.

Also later this afternoon, Secretary Austin will host the United Kingdom Secretary of State for Defense Ben Wallace. The leaders will discuss the strength of the U.S.-U.K. defense relationship and our mutual ongoing efforts to support Ukraine. A readout will be posted later today on defense.gov.

Shifting gears a little bit, on August 25th, 2022, the Secretary of Defense approved and released the Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan, directing the department to take immediate actions to create an architecture and supporting processes to mitigate civilian harm by optimizing the efficacy of military operations. Today, the Department of Defense, in consultation with the Secretary of the Army, announced Mr. Michael McNerney as the Director of the Civilian Protection Center of Excellence.

Mr. McNerney previously served at the Rand Corporation as a senior international and defense researcher, and has published extensively on civilian protection issues. He brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role, having both served in the public and private sectors, including more than 15 years with the U.S. government focused on national security strategy and development, planning the international security sector reform and decision-making in conflict. The director will oversee the efforts to establish the institution to build on existing processes and improve the department's approach to civilian harm mitigation and response.

The Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of the Army have full confidence in Mr. McNerney to oversee the standup of the Civilian Protection Center of Excellence.

And finally, a reminder that tomorrow, Secretary Austin will travel to Sweden to meet with his counterpart to discuss security-related topics, including Sweden's planning for NATO accession. From there, he will travel to Germany, where he and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Milley, will host the Ukraine Defense Contact Group on Friday at Ramstein Air Base.

And with that, I'd be happy to take your questions. I'll go to Tara.

Q: Hi. Thanks for doing this. So at this point, does the Pentagon have a better sense of just how many documents were leaked? And the larger scope -- it seems like documents continue to surface in different media reports. Do you have a better sense of how wide the damage was?

MS. SINGH: Well, two things. First, I'll say that this is an ongoing investigation being led by the Department of Justice. So we are working, consulting with them on an ongoing basis but that investigation will reveal more documents that have been, you know, previously posted.

And again, we're doing our own internal review assessment. As I said at the top, this is being led by our Intelligence and Security department, to get a better assessment of what exactly -- what documents were disclosed and where they surfaced online.

Q: But do you have a -- kind of a ballpark assessment of just how many documents there were? And it seems like some of these documents may have been put out months ago and pre-date, you know, the window that the Secretary was initially focused on.

MS. SINGH: Well, as the Secretary said, we're going to continue to find docs online. I think you're referring to his comments at the press conference that he participated in last week. I don't have a specific number for you at the moment. It's something that we're still reviewing, we're still assessing, and when we have a better grasp of just the scope and scale, we'd be happy to update you but that's something that we're continuing to assess.

Q: I guess the heart of the question is is the Pentagon concerned that there's still more documents out there that it doesn't know about?

MS. SINGH: Well, we're continuing to assess, and that's exactly what our internal efforts are geared toward and looking to review and that's also why the Department of Justice also has launched an investigation to figure out what exactly is still out there and also assessing the impacts that this has not just on U.S. security interests but on our partners and allies around the world.

I'll go ahead to Jen. Yeah?

Q: Sabrina, why is Airman Teixeira not being tried in a military court? And could he be later tried under UCMJ?

MS. SINGH: So this is an ongoing investigation. And in terms of jurisdiction, it's something that we're working through with the Department of Justice, but right now, this is something that's in DOJ's hands and we'll keep you updated as that goes.

Q: So you're suggesting that there could still be a UCMJ trial after the federal trial?

MS. SINGH: It's something that we're again, this is an ongoing investigation, it's something that we are working through with the Department of Justice, but I just don't have anything to announce on that front just yet.

Q: But it's confusing because someone like Chelsea Manning was held at Quantico and then tried up at Fort Meade, not in the federal system. How does it work? I understand it's ongoing but how does this work?

MS. SINGH: Again, we're assessing this, we're still working with the Department of Justice on this issue. Right now, they are the lead investigators for this criminal case. It's not to say that something couldn't come back to the Department of Defense at some point, but right now, in terms of jurisdiction, we're still working through that and I just don't have anything to announce today.

Q: OK. And just to -- to follow up ...

MS. SINGH: Sure.

Q: ... what can you tell us about the Navy NCO Sarah Bils, who calls herself Donbass Devushka? Why was she honorably discharged from the Navy and demoted two ranks in November?

MS. SINGH: In terms of the specifics on her record, I would refer you to the Navy for those questions.

Q: But she was posting pro-Kremlin propaganda since 2014 and she had a TS security clearance. Was the department aware that she was posting that kind of propaganda? And was that under investigation prior to this classified leaks case?

MS. SINGH: Thanks, Jen, that's a great question and something that we're certainly looking into. Because this investigation is ongoing, I would refer you to the DOJ for that.

Q: But is she under investigation by the military?

MS. SINGH: Well, she's a former service member.

Q: You can bring her back on to duty.

MS. SINGH: Right now, I have nothing to announce at this point. I would refer you to the Department of Justice.

Q: Thank you.

MS. SINGH: Travis?

Q: Thank you. I'm just wondering, you say the investigation is ongoing. I'm wondering if there is an investigation of Teixeira's supervisors or the other people who oversaw him at the facility where he worked, to see if somebody else may have been involved in some way in this? And if so, is that something that the DOD is doing or something that DOJ is doing? And can you say at all how that might work?

MS. SINGH: So a few questions in there.

On the first part of the actual unit itself, I'd refer you to the Air Force for that. Again, this is an ongoing investigation and I don't mean to sound like a broken record here but it is an ongoing investigation and is being led by the Department of Justice right now. So for any questions related to the investigation, I'd also refer you to them.

Q: So you're referring me to the Air Force on whether there's a military investigation that is ongoing at the facility?

MS. SINGH: That's correct.

Q: You can't say whether there's a military investigation ...

MS. SINGH: I'm not aware of one at this moment, so that's why I'd refer you to the Air Force.

Q: OK. And you said that there's an ongoing new review that the Secretary had ordered. And just to be clear, as part of that review, you'll be looking at who has access to this type of information? That is the direction of the review?

MS. SINGH: That's part of the review, yes -- who is able to access and review classified information, sensitive information, and part of that is not just looking here within the building but across our components worldwide.

So that is something that our team here is looking at but also this is also an interagency effort. It's not just the Department of Defense who has stakes in some of the unauthorized disclosures of docs that were posted online. There are other agencies that were impacted, our allies and partners as well. So it is an interagency effort.

Q: Thank you.

MS. SINGH: Great. Janne? Yeah?

Q: Thank you, Sabrina. I have a couple of questions about classified information released. Secretary Austin and South Korean Defense Minister Lee Jong-Sup had a phone call conversation last week about the leak of classified document and both ministers agreed that classified document was substantially forged. What is the evidence that the classified document is forged or fake?

MS. SINGH: So I think you're asking about the validity of some of the documents that have leaked online. Again, I'm not going to speak to specific documents that are circulating but what I can say -- we're doing a review of the documents. It's something that our I&S team is assessing and reviewing, to see if any documents were further manipulated. But I just wouldn't get into the specificities.

Q: Do you think the leaker has an intention to damage U.S. and South Korean relations by leaking wiretapping document?

MS. SINGH: I wouldn't be able to speak to the intentions of the individual. I would refer you to the Department of Justice ...

Q: Lastly, if it is true that the U.S. wiretaps, would you apologize to South Korea?

MS. SINGH: Again, this is an ongoing review. This is a matter that's been referred to the Department of Justice, as it is criminal in nature. We have a very good relationship with South Korea. You've heard us state from here, from this podium, but again, from Secretary Austin as well, that our commitment is rock solid and we have a positive relationship with South Korea.

Q: Thank you.

MS. SINGH: I'll go to Idrees.

Q: Just following up on Travis' question ...

MS. SINGH: Sure.

Q: ... slightly different, not about the investigation, but does the Secretary have faith and confidence in Teixeira's chain of command on the base?

MS. SINGH: Well, I think we certainly have confidence in our service members and our commanders. In terms of, you know, the actual unit itself, there's an ongoing investigation at the Department of Justice. We are doing our own internal review here. If there are changes that need to be made from that review, that will certainly inform either changes that need to be made or, you know, who has access to what and when.

Q: In the interim, because his faith and confidence won't be based on the investigation, as of today does he have faith and confidence in...

(CROSSTALK)

MS. SINGH: Well, we're here to pull the facts. And that's what this review will do. And that's what part of what our I&S team is doing here along with other departments in the building, is trying to assess what can we do better and what also was, you know, happening in that unit itself. So I just don't have anything more to say on that.

Q: And on a separate note, there was a statement today from CENTCOM about an operation against ISIS militants.

MS. SINGH: Yes.

Q: And in the statement I think it mentioned two militants were probably killed. I'm just sort of curious how you're probably killed, does that mean that they thought they were dead but they're not sure? Like, probably is a very unofficial way of saying, right? They didn't say "likely," they said "probably." I'm just confused.

MS. SINGH: Sure. You know, I'd refer you to CENTCOM for additional details on that front. But I think in terms of the operation itself, it really does stand as a testament to our commitment to the enduring defeat of ISIS. And I would just leave it at that.

Q: And just to be sure, so are they dead or no?

MS. SINGH: I would have to refer you to CENTCOM.

Oren ?

Q: Two questions. First, am I right in understanding that you cannot say at this point that the leak is definitely contained?

MS. SINGH: We're still reviewing it. It's still an ongoing effort here in this department. This is a criminal investigation so, again, the Department of Justice has the lead on that. So I would refer you to the Department of Justice.

Q: And given the ongoing efforts to review and look at who has access to this kind of information, can you give us a sense of how many people have had their access restricted based on the efforts you've taken so far to review distribution lists and...

MS. SINGH: Yes.

Q: ... printing abilities and -- and that sort of...

MS. SINGH: Yes. So I can't give you exact numbers on like who has had access revoked, but what I can say that we are culling through some of our distribution lists on who has access to certain information. That effort is going to be ongoing. It's not just going to stop tomorrow and it's not going to stop after a week. This is going to be a long-term effort.

And so while I can't give you exact numbers, we are taking steps when it comes to exactly what you said, when it comes to distribution lists, when it comes to printing access, when it comes to just access within SCIFs, we have to make sure that the service members or our civilians have what they need to be able to do their job. But we need to make sure that it is on a need-to-know basis.

Yes. Matt, sorry, go.

Q: Oh, just to follow up on that, I wanted to see if you could say anything more about those efforts. When you say you're culling through distribution lists...

MS. SINGH: Mm-hmm.

Q: ... and you talk about a need to know, is that process meant to determine, you know, someone who might have had a need to know one point and been part of a distribution list and had access to things, making sure that they still have that need? Is that part of the process? Can you explain that?

MS. SINGH: Yes. It's a part of an ongoing review. I mean, a very simple example would be a distribution list that has 10 people on it and one of those people have left the organization but they moved within the department and still have that email. So it's culling through some of those lists, making sure that people that are sent information actually need to have that information to do their jobs.

But part of what this department is focused on is making sure that people have the information that they need to do their job successfully and be able to defend our homeland and our interests abroad.

Mm-hmm?

Q: OK. And can you say whether some of those efforts are already being made? Is it just you're reviewing those distribution lists or have some actions already been taken to that end?

MS. SINGH: No. Actions have already been taken. Yeah.

Q: Thank you.

MS. SINGH: Ryo? Oh -- and then I'll come back to Chris -- or do Chris and then Ryo. There we go.

Q: Thanks, Sabrina. Airman Teixeira appeared to hold some racial extremist views, and that's been an issue for the department that you tried to address in the past. So is part of this effort looking at how you can better investigate, find extremism in the ranks so someone who might be predisposed to do something like this doesn't release these documents, doesn't ...

MS. SINGH: No, this effort is solely about looking at how -- or the effort, I should say, within the building is looking at how classified information is accessed and who has access to that information while also working with the Department of Justice in their investigation to prevent something like this happening in the future.

Q: So is someone's possible political extremist views part of how they might have access to that or is it just ...

MS. SINGH: Well, I don't know how someone's ...

Q: Well ...

MS. SINGH: ... political views in -- would shape how they have access to classified information. No, I -again, this effort that the department has launched is about looking at our own internal process on who has access to classified information and who needs access to that classified information to be able to do their jobs. It does not have anything to do with anyone's political dispositions.

Ryo? Yeah? Then I'll come back.

Q: Yeah, thank you very much. Two questions.

First, on the leaked document, how many allies and partners have the Secretary or the senior DOD officials reached out to on the leaked documents so far?

MS. SINGH: It's been ongoing since last week. The Secretary -- and I should just say not just the Secretary, the Chairman, senior leaders within this building, have been reaching out to their counterparts all across the world. I think we read out some of those just last week. I think the Secretary spoke to that as well. Today, as I mentioned, the Secretary's speaking to Minister Reznikov from Ukraine, and he'll be doing a bilateral meeting with the Minister of Defense from the United Kingdom later today. So this is ongoing.

And then you also have to remember that the Secretary leaves tomorrow for travel to Sweden and for the Ukraine Defense Contact Group. So again, he'll be in person to talk more with allies and partners.

Q: Great. Separately, on a different topic ...

MS. SINGH: Sure.

Q: One year ago, China and the Solomon Islands concluded a security arrangement. Has the Pentagon observed any Chinese military activities concerning to you around the Solomon Islands? And do you think that -- are you confident that the U.S. is doing enough to prevent China from expanding their military footprint in the Pacific Island region?

MS. SINGH: Thanks for the question. So I think you said the Solomon Islands, right? So as you saw, the U.S. recently opened an embassy in the Solomon Islands, and I think doing so just renews our relationship and undermines our strength and commitment to our bilateral relations with the people of the Solomon Islands.

In terms of -- I think you asked about concerning PRC activities around the islands, was that right? So what is particularly concerning about the PRC's activities in the Pacific is the lack of transparency and the lack of clarity around the terms it negotiates with host countries and its intended purpose of these programs.

So we want to ensure that Indo-Pacific nations can make decisions for themselves without being pressured but -- for their economic and security future and we want to -- we are committed in helping them do just that.

I'll go to Lara. Yeah? Hi.

Q: Thank you. I'm just wondering if this -- the situation with the leaked documents has prompted DOD to review its vetting processes at all? I mean, you have Airman Teixeira and this former Navy E-5. They've -- clearly have extremist, racist views that they've expressed on social media, including when they were in the military. So may -- it -- should this be part of DOD's vetting process when we're looking at recruiting people?

MS. SINGH: I think that's a great question and thank you for the question. We do have a very robust vetting process when it comes to someone being able to have a security clearance. That includes an FBI background check and that includes a vetting of friends, family, former co-workers, and then there is a more detailed, in-depth on just finances, further background checks that the FBI does.

But I mean, I think we are pretty confident in how the FBI does conduct its background checks when it comes to somebody being able to obtain a security clearance. And we also ask and mandate that our service members or civilians who do have security clearances -- and I include myself in that -- do so with certainly something -- you know, you have to -- being able to follow the rules that are in place, which is -- part of that is a non-disclosure agreement that we sign, as well, when you get access -- when you have a security clearance.

And so while I feel confident in the background checks that do go into place for security clearances and for someone to get access to one, again, that is why we are doing this process. If there is something that we feel that needs to be added to the background check process, I think that's what this review will certainly lend itself to.

Q: And is there any way for DOD or I guess it might be the FBI to track the social media postings of these people? So maybe they didn't express extremist views before they went into the military and now maybe -- I mean, as it seems happened with this Navy E-5, there was an event, and then afterwards, she sort of went off on the deep end maybe? Is there a way for DOD to track that? I guess it seems like it would be pertinent.

MS. SINGH: So as you know, we have to follow the -- I'm trying to find the best way to phrase it. DOD does not spy on its own U.S. citizens and we conduct ourselves in adherence with the law.

Again, background checks certainly do go through social media postings. This is exactly what this effort internally here in the building is designed to look at -- is there something else that we need to do to add on to a process when it comes to a background check and obtaining a security clearance? This is something that this will look at, and when we have more to follow on that, I'd be happy to update you on that.

Yes, right over here? I probably have time for two or three more.

Q: I have two questions.

MS. SINGH: OK, great.

Q: Thank you.

MS. SINGH: Yeah.

Q: My first question about the leaked documents -- Sabrina, how much do you have a concern that the other parties, like Russia or China, could use the information inside these documents to harm U.S. military operations or even their -- the U.S. -- I mean, allies?

MS. SINGH: Well, we're certainly concerned about the contents of these documents being circulated on social media, which is why, I think at the top, you know, I addressed the fact that it is important when reporting on these documents that they do contain sensitive, classified information that could cause irreparable damage to our allies and partners, but we're also doing an assessment of that.

So yes, we are concerned about these documents. We feel that of course Russia and China could use this to their advantage but we also feel confident in our outreach to partners and allies and working with them as this continues.

Yeah?

Q: ... second question, different topic. Regarding to the clashes in Sudan, have you seen the latest reports about the clashes? And do you have any concerns about the stability of the region? And is there any contact between the DOD and their Sudani counterparts or even the countries in that area, in the region? And what -- how do you see the situation there? Thank you.

MS. SINGH: Sure. So -- and I think for some of these, I would refer you to the Department of State. But within Sudan, the Department of Defense's mission is primarily focused on providing security to the U.S. embassy. And so while I can't go into too much detail, we have -- the Department of Defense, through the Marine Corps Embassy Security Group, provides ongoing security for diplomatic facilities worldwide.

Yeah, I'll go to Courtney and then that'll have to be our last question.

Q: Thanks. I just wanted to ask, just for clarification on one of the questions -- one of your answers to Tara's question, you said that the DOJ investigation will reveal more documents that have been previously posted ...

(CROSS-TALK)

... are you saying that you think that the -- or you know that the investigation -- there will be more documents that have not been reported on, have not been made public that will be -- that will come out as part of this investigation?

MS. SINGH: I'm not exactly sure how I phrased that but what I meant ...

Q: ... direct quote.

MS. SINGH: So DOJ is the lead investigator on this topic. There could be more documents that are being circulated online. That is something that this investigation is looking into, that's something that the department is looking into. Different media outlets here in this room have reported on having different numbers of pages, numbers of documents. At each time that, you know, we are culling through the documents that we get and as we get more, that number grows. Does that make sense?

Q: So -- so you do -- so I -- I guess the -- I mean, one of the big questions that we all have -- have had here is there's been this drip, drip of -- of documents, like, every day, multiple documents per day being reported on.

So I guess what we're trying to figure out is is this just going to continue and -- and if you guys have any sense -- I mean, at this point, now that you've arrested someone -- or that the Department of Justice has arrested someone, they -- I'm sure they've gone through his computers, his things. They must have a better sense of -- of what more is still out there that could potentially still be released.

MS. SINGH: Well, as you said, they're going through his computers, they're going through his files. That -- that "they" is the Department of Justice. So I'd refer you to them in terms of what they're actually pulling off of anything that they've taken from his home.

Yes, we do continue to assess what other documents are being circulated online. As news outlets report on them, you know, we are also culling through what we are finding, and that is ongoing. So I think what you're getting at, could this count grow, I mean, we're still assessing that, we are still reviewing different posts that continue to surface online and working with -- you know, working with online social media platforms to get those documents and to review them.

Q: And then just one from Jennifer's questions -- I'm still not clear on Sarah Bils, I think is her name ...

MS. SINGH: Yeah.

Q: ... the -- the Navy -- former Navy -- so there is -- at this point, there's no military investigation looking into any of her activities while she was in uniform? Is that -- is that correct?

MS. SINGH: As far as I am aware, while she was in uniform, there was not, but for more specifics, I would refer you to the Navy ...

Q: But -- right, but -- but now, I mean, there's no -- cause, like, a -- a -- not even ...

MS. SINGH: Anything to do with the investigation into the unauthorized disclosure of documents, anything to do with that investigation, I'm just not going to speak to more specifics of who's being spoken to or who's being interviewed. I would refer you to the DOJ for that.

Great. OK, we're going to have to wrap up. Thanks so much, guys.

https://www.defense.gov/News/Transcripts/Transcript/Article/3365469/

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April 17, 2023

By David Vergun , DOD News

Official Describes Steps DOD Taking for Energy, Environmental Resilience

This year's Earth Day theme for the Defense Department is "Invest in Our Planet, Protect Our Future."

Brendan Owens, assistant secretary of defense for energy, installations and environment, spoke today at an Earth Day event at the Pentagon.

The department's primary mission is to maintain a robust military force capable of deterring conflict while ensuring the nation's security, said Owens.

To effectively carry out this mission, the department must have access to essential resources like energy, land, air and water, he said.

"These are required for the development and training of our forces both now and well into the future. So, we are committed as a department to protecting our planet, and ensuring health and safety for our people," Owens said.

The department has made remarkable progress in various areas such as operational energy, climate resilience and environmental remediation, he said.

DOD is the leader on power beaming technology, he said

"Because of the investments that we've made, NASA and the Department of Energy are now racing to match and improve on our work to develop this revolutionary means of distributing energy," Owens said.

Power beaming technology could significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and lead to space-based solar power, global energy distribution networks for humanitarian response and national defense, he said.

Last month, the department launched the first groundbreaking demonstration of optical power beaming in space, he said.

The department is also working on an all-electric autonomous vehicle designed to carry exportable energy to the point of need, he said.

"The ability to autonomously maneuver through battlefields and disaster events makes it a powerful resource in ensuring the safety of our warfighters while reducing our environmental footprint," he said.

The department has also made significant strides in preparing for the inevitable impacts of climate change, Owens said.

The DOD Climate Assessment Tool improves the department's ability to make climate-informed decisions by estimating climate vulnerabilities for all major domestic and international installations, he said.

The department expects in the coming months to deliver this tool to six partner nations, he said.

The department has also developed water resilience methodologies that greatly advance its ability to assess water management and security at DOD installations, he said.

"The methodology provides us with consistent, comparable data and helps us evaluate water risks that DOD faces and helps us support decision making to ensure that our installations are resilient," Owens said.

The department is also working to restore lands that have experienced environmental impacts attributable to past military activities, he said.

Through the Native American Lands Environmental Mitigation Program, the department has remediated over 100 impacted sites and executed 369 cooperative agreements valued at over $179 million with Native American tribes, he said.

"The goal of this program is to prioritize health and human safety by restoring and protecting natural and cultural resources and return tribal lands to optimal use," he said.

"Key advancements in energy resilience, environmental stewardship, pollution prevention research and cleanup, and climate resilience will help us confront some of the greatest challenges the department is facing," Owens said.

"Military facilities must adapt to an increasingly challenging threat environment. Improving energy resilience and reliability is key to that adaptation," he said.

The department is also investing in microgrid technology and electric vehicles to support mission requirements, he said.

"We're also going to continue to improve energy efficiency of operational platforms to maximize our ability to operate in contested logistics environments," Owens said.

The department is pursuing game-changing technologies, such as adaptive cycle aircraft engines and blended wing body airframe designs, he said.

"These technologies can reduce energy use for our operational forces by 20 to 30%. compared to current systems. Our effort to hybridize ground vehicles and develop microgrids will also decrease our dependence on fuel convoys and increase operational capability," Owens said.

Hybrid technologies leverage auxiliary battery power to reduce fuel usage and emissions when tactical vehicles are idle. This also reduces heat signatures, he said.

Microgrids can provide stability of operations in installations as well as in the field, even when infrastructure is under attack, he said.

DOD manages nearly 27 million acres of unique ecosystems and habitats. This natural infrastructure is critical for providing realistic environments to test new technologies, train service members and mitigate climate change impacts, he said.

The department is steward of over 500 threatened and endangered species, 55 of which only exist on DOD lands. DOD is working to sustain and restore threatened, endangered and at-risk species, while carrying out its mission-essential activities, he said.

The department is also working with the Environmental Protection Agency to, measure and clean up contaminated sites at various locations, he said.

Joe Bryan, chief sustainability officer and senior advisor for climate to the secretary of defense; Caroline Baxter, deputy assistant secretary of defense for force education and training; and Regina Meiners, director, Washington Headquarters Service, also spoke at today's event.

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Germany joins Finland-led CAVS project

Finnish Ministry of Defence

17.04.2023

Germany has signed an agreement on joining the Common Armoured Vehicle System CAVS, a research and development programme led by Finland together with Latvia and Sweden. CAVS is based on the 6 x 6 armoured vehicle developed by Patria. Germany's signing of the agreement is seen to suggest that it will order Patria 6 x 6 vehicles.

Sweden has joined the framework agreement under the project, which makes it possible to order vehicles from Patria, and it will order its own test series of the vehicles. The actual serial procurement will be carried out after the test phase. Sweden's serial procurement will include several vehicle types, amounting to hundreds of vehicles in all.

Finland, Latvia and Patria signed the framework agreement on armoured vehicles in 2021. At the same time, Latvia ordered more than 200 Patria 6 x 6 armoured vehicles while Finland signed a letter of intent on 160 vehicles.

Finland's serial procurement was launched in 2021 with a test series commissioned by the Defence Forces, which was used to decide on the equipment for the vehicles. The Defence Forces' serial order is now being finalised with the aim of getting the first new XA-300 armoured vehicles into service this year.

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UN envoy says in contact with Iranian, Saudi officials over peace in Yemen

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Apr 17, 2023

New York City, IRNA -- United Nations' Special Envoy for Yemen Hans Grundberg said on Monday that he is keeping contact with officials of Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in order for peace efforts to go ahead in Yemen.

Grundberg was speaking at a virtual briefing with reporters on the situation in Yemen where Ansarullah officials have been engaged in talks with Saudi negotiators over the past days in an effort to bring an end to the years-long war in Yemen.

The UN envoy said that he is keeping close contact with Iranian and Saudi, as well as Emirati officials, over the situation in Yemen, and expressed hope that the ongoing negotiations bear results.

He said that all parties in the war-torn country should use the newly-created opportunity to push for lasting peace and a political solution in Yemen.

Saudi Arabia, leading a coalition of countries, including the UAE, waged war on Yemen in March 2015 to restore toppled president Abd Rabbuh Mansour Hadi's government.

The war has dragged on ever since, killing hundreds of thousands of Yemenis directly and indirectly, according to the UN, which has described Yemen as the world's biggest humanitarian crisis.

The Yemeni capital Sana'a has in the past days hosted peace talks, mediated by Oman, between Ansarullah Movement and Saudi officials.

Ansarullah has cited progress in the talks and said more negotiations are planned.

4194**2050

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Saudi Arabia releases 104 more Yemeni war prisoners

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Apr 17, 2023

Tehran, IRNA -- Some 104 other Yemeni war prisoners who were released from Saudi jails arrived in Sana'a on Monday, local media reported.

The Yemeni prisoners were transferred to the Yemeni capital by aircraft belonging to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

The one-sided move by Saudi Arabia to release the Yemeni prisoners takes place three days after an organized prisoner swap between the warring sides as part of diplomatic efforts to maintain ceasefire and pave the way for peace.

In line with an agreement by the two sides for the swap of prisoners in the holy month of Ramadan, 706 Yemeni prisoners were earlier traded for 181 prisoners from the coalition countries, including Saudi Arabia, Sudan, and other nations.

The warring sides had reached an agreement in Geneva to swap 887 prisoners in three stages.

9341**2050

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2nd Battalion, 7th Marines Tests Scout Platoon Capabilities for IBX-30

US Marine Corps News

17 Apr 2023 | Capt. Joseph DiPietro 1st Marine Division

TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. -- Marines with 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, participated in a scout platoon mobile training team event at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, March 20-31.

The training increased the Marines' knowledge of scouting and reconnaissance fundamentals to test future infantry battalion scout platoon capabilities.

The Marines and Sailors of 1st Marine Division continue to lead the way in Infantry Battalion Experiment 2030, or IBX-30, initiatives. The training the battalion recently completed was another area the Marine Corps is looking to develop more versatile and lethal units to compete in austere environments. The scout platoon transition is also part of a renewed focus on basic reconnaissance and looks to provide ground combat commanders with early indications and warnings, real-time battlefield analysis, and undetected observation of adversary forces.

"A likely vision of warfare centers on the recon/counter-recon contest," U.S. Marine Gen. David H. Berger, commandant of the Marine Corps, wrote in his 2019 Commandant's Planning Guidance. "This demands an agile, stealthy, tactical system employing forces that are able to locate, target, and fire precisely first."

Under the guidance of a mobile training team from Advanced Infantry Training Battalion, School of Infantry - West, the "War Dogs" of 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines went through a challenging program of instruction designed to give the foundational skills expected of a scout platoon member. The course focused on individual reconnaissance skills such as reporting, surveillance, communications, and patrolling. The course also introduced various collective skills on scout employment in the offense and defense.

"The scout platoon mobile training team provided the foundational reconnaissance and surveillance skills that will be required moving forward for the V27 scout platoon," explained Maj. Neil Simmons, the operations officer for AITB. "As we continue to transition toward this FD2030 concept, these competences will be key factors to our success in future operating environments."

The 10-day training event included instruction and practical application on all-weather, ground, reconnaissance and surveillance tactics, techniques, and procedures with an emphasis on support to battalion intelligence collections. Throughout the course, the instructor cadre stressed the importance of effectively operating in an all-domain environment to include capabilities not historically found within an infantry battalion.

"2/7's scout platoon learned how to effectively operate and manage their signature in a multi-domain environment, to include the electromagnetic spectrum, while also integrating enhanced technical capabilities such as ground sensors and special intelligence/electronic warfare teams," said Capt. Mike Larson, the company commander for Weapons Company, 2nd Bn., 7th Marines. "The training allows our scout platoon to assist the commander's decision-making ability and also extend the battlefield through employment of small unmanned aerial systems."

Scout platoon integration is the most recent step in the IBX-30 evaluation process. With an organic scout platoon, along with other integrated units, weapons, and skillsets, future infantry battalions can provide more versatile, more experienced, and more lethal forces to commanders around the world.

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Pakistan welcomes efforts for peace in Yemen

Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Pakistan welcomes the recent dialogue and diplomatic engagement towards attainment of peace in Yemen with particular reference to the Saudi role and endeavors in reinforcing the efforts of the Sultanate of Oman and the UN Special Envoy for Yemen.

The Saudi efforts towards an amicable resolution of the Yemeni crisis, we believe, are timely and would promote peace, stability and development in the region.

Pakistan reiterates its principled support for a political solution to the Yemeni crisis through dialogue and consultation.

Islamabad

17 April 2023

75/2023

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Houthis unveil new prisoner exchange deal with Yemeni gov't

People's Daily Online

(Xinhua) 09:03, April 17, 2023

ADEN, Yemen, April 16 (Xinhua) -- Yemen's Houthi rebels on Sunday unveiled a new prisoner swap agreement with the country's government, raising hopes for a peaceful resolution to the country's ongoing conflict.

The move comes just hours after the Iran-backed Houthis and the Saudi-backed Yemeni government successfully completed a prisoner swap in which 887 prisoners and detainees from both sides were released.

Abdul-Qader al-Mortada, head of the Houthi committee for prisoners' affairs, said during a press conference held in the Houthis-controlled Yemeni capital of Sanaa that "an upcoming deal will involve the release of 700 captives in exchange for 700 prisoners from the opposing side (referring to the government)."

However, the Houthi official did not provide details on the timing for the exchange and the signing of the deal with the Yemeni government.

So far, both the Yemeni government and the International Committee of the Red Cross(ICRC), who was responsible for transporting detainees as agreed in the just-finished swap deal, have not commented on the Houthi announcement.

In a significant step toward resolving the protracted conflict in Yemen, Yemeni government forces and the Houthi rebels successfully completed a three-day exchange of prisoners earlier in the day.

Yahya Kazman, chief of the negotiation committee from the internationally-recognized Yemeni government, said the third and last batch of the swap concluded successfully on Sunday, with the arrivals of three Red Cross flights at the airport of Sanaa and the airport of Tadween in Marib, central Yemen.

Over the past three days, the ICRC and the United Nations have facilitated the transportation of hundreds of prisoners between Yemeni regions and Saudi Arabia via flights.

High-profile figures, including Nasser Mansour Hadi, the brother of former Yemeni president Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi, and Mahmoud Al Subeihi, the country's former defense minister, were among those who were freed.

The prisoner swap comes as part of ongoing efforts aimed at building trust between the Yemeni government forces and the Houthi militia, who have been engaged in a brutal internal conflict since late 2014.

It is also widely regarded as a crucial step toward preparing favorable conditions for and demonstrating both parties' commitment to forthcoming negotiations that aimed at achieving a lasting peace.

Local observers said that the three-day prisoner swap has raised hope for further deals that could potentially lead to the release of all captives held by the two warring sides.

Yemen has been embroiled in a years-long military conflict after the Houthi militia took control of several northern cities and ousted the Yemeni government from Sanaa in 2014.

The ongoing conflict has resulted in a staggering number of casualties and has plunged the Arab world's poorest country into humanitarian crises, including a widespread famine.

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Another 104 Yemeni detainees released after major prisoner exchanges: ICRC

Iran Press TV

Monday, 17 April 2023 6:56 PM

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) says the Saudi-led coalition has released a group of another 104 Yemeni detainees from the kingdom's jails after simultaneous prisoner exchanges between the warring sides in the impoverished country.

Jessica Moussan, the ICRC media adviser, made the announcement on Monday and said two of the humanitarian group's planes  carrying 48 prisoners each  flew to the capital Sana'a, while a third with eight captives headed for the port city of Aden in the south.

Moussan said the "unilateral" release was outside the terms of the three-day exchange that was negotiated between Yemen's Ansarullah resistance movement and the Saudi-backed former Yemeni regime.

"We welcome this initiative and are pleased to see that humanitarian considerations are being taken for the sake of reuniting families," the ICRC media adviser said, adding, "This will bring immense relief to the families of the detainees."

Moussan said the ICRC is "facilitating" the transfer by providing air transport and logistical support, and by interviewing the captives.

Confirming the extra releases, the Saudi-led coalition's spokesman Turki al-Maliki said they completed the prisoner exchange and that the "extension of previous humanitarian initiatives" is aimed at helping "stabilize" the lapsed truce and create an "atmosphere of dialogue."

The release of 104 captives, days before the major Muslim celebration of Eid al-Fitr which marks the end of the holy fasting month of Ramadan, takes the total number to 973 freed since Friday.

The two sides agreed during negotiations in Switzerland last month to free 887 detainees and to meet again in May to discuss further releases. The deal was overseen by the United Nations envoy for Yemen, Hans Grundberg, and the ICRC.

Saudi Arabia launched the bloody war against Yemen in March 2015 in collaboration with a number of its allies and with arms and logistics support from the US and several Western states to reinstall former Yemeni president Abd Rabbuh Mansur Hadi, who resigned from the presidency in late 2014 and later fled to Riyadh amid a political conflict with the popular Ansarullah movement.

The war objective was also to crush the Ansarullah movement, which has been running state affairs in the absence of an effective government in Yemen. However, it has stopped well shy of all of its goals, despite killing tens of thousands of Yemenis and turning the entire country into the scene of the world's worst humanitarian crisis.



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G7 talks tough on Ukraine, Taiwan and Korea during Blinken's Asia trip

The US Secretary of State earlier visited Vietnam where he discussed closer ties despite human rights concerns.

By RFA Staff 2023.04.17 -- U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is in Japan where he, together with other foreign ministers from the Group of Seven (G7) nations, discussed a common approach to the war in Ukraine Monday, confirming "that they remain committed to intensifying, fully coordinating and enforcing sanctions against Russia, as well as to continuing strong support for Ukraine," according to a Japanese Foreign Affairs Ministry statement.

The statement was in line with the goals of the Biden administration, which are to shore up support for Ukraine and to ensure the continued provision of military assistance to Kyiv, as well as to ramp up punishment against Russia through economic and financial sanctions, a senior official from Blinken's delegation told the Associated Press ahead of the meeting.

Earlier G7 ministers vowed to take a tougher stance on China's threats to Taiwan, and North Korea's missile tests.

Meanwhile, Britain's Financial Times reported that China was refusing to let Blinken visit Beijing over concerns that the FBI will release the results of an investigation into the suspected Chinese spy balloon downed in February.

The FT quoted four people familiar with the matter as saying that "China had told the U.S. it was not prepared to reschedule a trip that Blinken cancelled in February while it remains unclear what the administration of President Joe Biden will do with the report."

It is unclear when the trip would be rescheduled.

The U.S. military shot the Chinese balloon down over concerns that it was spying on U.S. military installations but China insisted that it was a weather balloon blown off course due to "force majeure."

The incident led to Blinken abruptly canceling his ties-mending trip to Beijing, during which he was expected to call on Chinese leader Xi Jinping.

The relationship between Washington and Beijing has been strained in the last few years over issues such as China's threats to Taiwan and security concerns in the Indo-Pacific.

Upgrading U.S.-Vietnam partnership

Antony Blinken arrived at Karuizawa in Nagano prefecture in central Japan on Sunday after a visit to Vietnam to promote strategic ties with the communist country.

This was Blinken's first visit to Hanoi as U.S. Secretary of State.

The U.S. is building a U.S.$1.2 billion compound in Hanoi, one of its largest and most expensive embassies in the world.

During his visit, Blinken met with Vietnam's most senior officials, including the General Secretary of the Communist Party, Nguyen Phu Trong, to discuss "the great possibilities that lie ahead in the U.S.-Vietnam partnership," the secretary of state wrote on Twitter.

Two weeks before Blinken's visit, Trong and Biden had a phone conversation during which the two leaders agreed to "promote and deepen bilateral ties," according to Vietnamese media.

Former enemies Hanoi and Washington normalized their diplomatic relationship in 1995 and in 2013 established a so-called "comprehensive partnership" to promote cooperation in all sectors including the economy, culture exchange and security.

Vietnam's foreign relations are benchmarked by three levels of partnerships: comprehensive, strategic and comprehensive strategic.

Only four countries in the world belong to the top tier of comprehensive strategic partners: China, Russia, India and South Korea.

Vietnam has strategic partnerships with 16 nations including some U.S. allies such as Japan, Singapore and Australia.

U.S. officials have been hinting at upgrading the ties to the next level strategic partnership which offers deeper cooperation, especially in security and defense, amid new geopolitical challenges posed by an increasingly assertive China.

Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh told the U.S. secretary of state on Saturday in Hanoi that the consensus reached amongst the Vietnamese leadership is to "further elevate the bilateral partnership to a new height" adding that "relevant government agencies have been tasked with looking into the process."

Vietnam analysts such as Carl Thayer from the University of New South Wales in Australia said that an upgrade of Vietnam-U.S. relationship to strategic partnership within this year is possible, despite concerns that it would antagonize Beijing.

The U.S. is currently the largest export market and the second-largest commercial partner for Vietnam.

Hanoi aims to benefit across the board from U.S. assistance, especially in trade, science and technology, Thayer told Radio Free Asia.

Vietnam as one of the South China Sea claimants has been embroiled in territorial disputes with China and could benefit from greater cooperation in maritime security.

In exchange, "the U.S. would benefit indirectly by assisting Vietnam in capacity-building to address maritime security issues in the South China Sea to strengthen a free and open Indo-Pacific," said Thayer.

"The U.S. is trying to mobilize and sustain an international coalition to oppose Russia's war in Ukraine and to deter China from using force against Taiwan and intimidation of South China Sea littoral states," the Canberra-based political analyst said.

Hanoi's priority

Some other analysts, such as Bill Hayton from the British think tank Chatham House, said that there might have been a miscalculation on the U.S.'s part.

"Washington is now taking itself for a massive ride in its misunderstanding of what Vietnam wants from the bilateral relationship," Hayton said.

"All the Communist Party of Vietnam wants is regime security. It has no interest in confronting China," the author of "A Brief History of Vietnam" said.

Just before Blinken landed in Hanoi, a dissident blogger was sentenced to six years in prison for "spreading anti-state propaganda."

Nguyen Lan Thang was also a contributor to Radio Free Asia.

The U.S. State Department condemned the sentence and urged the Vietnamese government to "immediately release and drop all charges against Nguyen Lan Thang and other individuals who remain in detention for peacefully exercising and promoting human rights."

"Vietnam is an important partner in the Indo-Pacific, and that partnership can only reach its full potential if the government of Vietnam takes concerted steps to meet its obligations and commitments under international law and improve its human rights record," a State Department spokesperson said, according to Reuters.

Yet two days later, friends of another blogger, Thai Van Duong, alleged that he was kidnapped by Vietnamese agents and transferred back to Vietnam. Thai was in Bangkok where he was waiting for his political refugee application to be vetted by UNHCR.

"That was clearly a message from the Ministry of Public Security, demonstrating its power in the face of the United States," said Bill Hayton.

"Washington is so keen to establish a strategic partnership with Vietnam that the Vietnamese security establishment thinks it will ignore those events," he added.

Story has been updated to include a statement by Japan's Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Edited by Mike Firn.

Copyright 1998-2023, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content April not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

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Joint Forces Command of the Coalition to Restore Legitimacy in Yemen: Supplementing Prisoner Exchange Process by Releasing (104) Houthi Detainees in A Humanitarian Initiative by the Kingdom

Saudi Press Agency

Monday 1444/9/26 - 2023/04/17

Riyadh, April 17, 2023, SPA -- A Statement by the Official Spokesperson of the Coalition to Restore Legitimacy in Yemen Brigadier General Turki Al-Malki:

"The prisoner exchange process has been supplemented with the release of (104) Houthi detainees in a humanitarian initiative by the Kingdom.

This initiative is an extension of previous humanitarian initiatives regarding prisoners and detainees by the Kingdom, aiming to support the efforts to sustain the ceasefire and create a conducive atmosphere for dialogue between Yemeni parties to reach a sustainable, comprehensive political resolution to the Yemeni crisis. This initiative's objective is to urge the parties to the conflict to support the prisoners and detainees exchange process in line with Islamic values, humanitarian principles, fundamental Arabian values and traditions and the International Humanitarian Law as specified in the III Geneva Convention Relative to the Treatment of Prisoners of War.

The Joint Forces Command of the Coalition has finalized the procedures for releasing the (104) detainees in coordination with the ICRC. They have been transported to Sana'a today (Monday 17 April 2023).

Finalizing the prisoners and detainees exchange process is a matter of prime concern for the political and military leaderships of the Coalition, as this process is based purely on humanitarian grounds and principles."

--SPA

13:14 LOCAL TIME 10:14 GMT

0014

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Yemen at 'critical juncture' in bid to end eight-year war: UN Special Envoy

17 April 2023 - An expired truce still delivering positive results, and a recent mass prisoner exchange, are signs of hope in Yemen, but more work remains to end the war between the Saudi coalition-backed Government and Houthi rebels, UN Special Envoy Hans Grundberg told the Security Council on Monday.

"One year on since the parties agreed to a truce under UN auspices, Yemen is again at a critical juncture," he said, speaking via videoconference.

"I believe we have not seen such a serious opportunity for making progress towards ending the conflict in eight years. But the tide could still turn unless the parties take bolder steps toward peace," he warned.

Historic prisoner exchange

Mr. Grundberg noted that although the landmark truce ran out six months ago, it continues to deliver results, and the parties are engaging on next steps.

They have also shown that negotiation can be effective. Over the weekend, nearly 900 people from all sides, who had been detained in connection with the conflict, were released from prison - the result of meetings held last month in Switzerland under the auspices of the UN.

Meanwhile, many aspects of the landmark truce continue to be implemented, representing another encouraging sign.

Relative calm amid conflict

"Yemen is experiencing the longest period of relative calm yet in this ruinous war," he said. "Food, fuel and other commercial ships continue to flow into Hudaydah. And commercial flights continue between Sana'a International Airport and Amman."

However, he was adamant that this is not enough as Yemen's people still live with unimaginable hardship. Furthermore, recent military activity in several governorates raises the potential for escalation, which could quickly reverse hard-won gains.

Engagement towards peace

Mr. Grundberg noted that while the truce was an important achievement, it was meant to be a temporary measure towards talks to end the war.

He continues engagement towards identifying a permanent ceasefire and reactivation of the political process, as well as measures to alleviate the dire economic and humanitarian situations in the country.

He added that discussions are also ongoing among Yemeni and regional stakeholders, including Saudi Arabia and Oman. The UN envoy has also welcomed a statement by Saudi and Iranian foreign ministers on enhancing cooperation on regional security, issued following a meeting in China's capital, Beijing.

Seize the moment

Mr. Grundberg stressed that any new agreement in Yemen must be a clear step toward a Yemeni-led political process, requiring strong commitment from the parties to meet and negotiate in good faith. He acknowledged that a lot of work lies ahead to build trust and ultimately achieve peace.

"Mediation efforts will always adapt and evolve. But, if the parties allow this moment to pass by without coming to agreement, it will be truly regrettable," he said, urging the international community to "redouble its support to ensure this delicate and rare opportunity is not lost."

Deliver lasting peace

A top official with the UN humanitarian affairs office, OCHA, also called for seizing this "unprecedented opportunity to make more progress toward peace" in Yemen.

Ghada Eltahir Mudawi, OCHA's Deputy Director of Operations and Advocacy, said this could dramatically improve lives and reduce suffering.

"We need urgent and unequivocal action on three points: increased funding, unimpeded access and investments to stabilize the economy. But more than anything, Yemenis need lasting peace. Now is the time to deliver it," she said.

Outbreaks spreading rapidly

Ms. Mudawi told the Council that more than 21 million Yemenis require emergency assistance, and recent torrential rains have affected over 100,000 people, adding to the numbers.

Although the humanitarian impact has been relatively limited, worse weather is expected. Additionally, 10,000 people have been displaced by recent escalating clashes in Ma'rib and Shabwah governorates.

Meanwhile, measles, polio and other preventable diseases "are spreading at a dangerous pace", and humanitarians fear outbreaks could deteriorate fast. This is particularly the case in Houthi-controlled areas, where there are increasing impediments to immunization, as well as misinformation that is fuelling vaccine scepticism.

Constraints and impediments

Ms. Mudawi said aid agencies are doing all they can in Yemen. Last year, they were able to avert the worst, and the number of people facing severe food insecurity even dropped from 19 million to 17 million.

She feared that these gains could be lost due to funding constraints and the challenging operating environment in the country, characterized by "large and chronic access impediments", mainly in Houthi-controlled areas.

She said Yemeni women aid workers in these regions are currently hindered by movement restrictions, which has severely impeded the provision of critical services which only they can deliver. This has also undercut the ability reach the most vulnerable communities.

Preparing for tomorrow

Insecurity is also another challenge, with humanitarians falling victim to at least two car-jackings in recent months. Two UN staff also remain detained in Sana'a, after nearly 18 months, and five staff abducted in Abyan last year are still missing.

While funding and access are critical now, humanitarians also must prepare for the long run, which means addressing Yemen's deteriorating economy and other underlying drivers of need, said Ms. Mudawi.

Protecting the flow of commercial imports is thus crucial. Despite a recent easing in import restrictions - which has allowed more food, fuel and other items into the country - humanitarians are concerned about continued obstructions, particularly affecting overland transport of commercial goods to Houthi-controlled areas.

Ms. Mudawi said beyond commercial imports, much more must be done to stabilize the economy, such as strengthening incomes, scaling up demining efforts and restoring basic services.

She added that the resumption of oil exports from Government-held areas is also critical, including for strengthening foreign currency reserves.



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His Majesty the King of Bahrain Visits U.S. 5th Fleet Headquarters

US Navy

17 April 2023

From U.S. Naval Forces Central Command Public Affairs

MANAMA, Bahrain -- His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of the Kingdom of Bahrain and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, visited U.S. 5th Fleet headquarters in Bahrain, April 16, 2023.

Vice Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, U.S. 5th Fleet and Combined Maritime Forces, welcomed His Majesty the King along with U.S. Ambassador to the Kingdom of Bahrain Steven Bondy. The leaders and His Majesty the King discussed U.S. Navy and regional partner operations, including efforts to strengthen international cooperation at sea and integrate unmanned and artificial intelligence technology.

"We are highly honored to host His Majesty the King, and we are deeply grateful for our longstanding strategic partnership with the Kingdom of Bahrain," said Cooper. "Bahrain remains a strong U.S. ally and important leader in regional maritime security."

In addition to U.S. 5th Fleet, Bahrain hosts the headquarters for two U.S.-led international maritime partnerships: Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) and the International Maritime Security Construct (IMSC).

CMF is the largest maritime partnership in the world, consisting of naval forces from 38 partner nations that contribute to four operational task forces across the Middle East. IMSC an 11-nation naval coalition formed three years ago in response to threats to merchant mariners transiting regional waters. Bahrain is a member of both organizations.

His Majesty the King last visited U.S. 5th Fleet headquarters in August 2019.

U.S. 5th Fleet includes 8,000 American personnel and families stationed in Bahrain and operating in the Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, Red Sea, parts of the Indian Ocean and three critical choke points at the Strait of Hormuz, Suez Canal and Bab al-Mandeb.

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US Kills IS Commander Behind Plot to Kidnap Officials

By Jeff Seldin April 17, 2023

Plans by the Islamic State terror group to kidnap officials outside of the Middle East region and hold them for leverage triggered an early morning U.S. raid that led to the death of one of the plot's alleged masterminds.

U.S. Central Command on Monday confirmed the death of Abd-al-Hadi Mahmud al-Haji Ali during the operation in northern Syria, describing him as the official responsible for planning attacks in the Middle East and in Europe.

Confirmation of Ali's death came hours after a U.S. official, speaking to VOA on the condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the operation, said the senior leader's remains had been recovered and were undergoing DNA testing to confirm his identity.

Two armed fighters with Ali at the time of the raid were also killed, according to CENTCOM officials, who said no civilians were injured and that the U.S. forces involved in the operation emerged unscathed.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a London-based opposition war monitor, reported the U.S. raid took place before dawn in the village of Suwayda, near the town of Jarabulus, not far from the border with Turkey.

Sources told the group that U.S. forces arrived by helicopter in the pre-dawn hours, sparking violent clashes with the IS fighters that ended only after the U.S. launched two missiles at the building where the IS leader was hiding.

VOA has not been able to independently confirm the account.

"We know ISIS retains the desire to strike beyond the Middle East," CENTCOM spokesman Colonel Joe Buccino said in statement Monday, using another acronym for Islamic State. "This raid deals a significant blow to ISIS operations in the region but does not eliminate ISIS' capability to conduct operations."

Word of the alleged plotting to kidnap officials on foreign soil, and the U.S. raid to hamper such efforts, comes as most Western assessments of IS in Syria and Iraq, sometimes referred to as ISIS core, have downplayed the group's capabilities.

Just last month, a top U.S. homeland security official said an attack on the U.S. by IS was "almost inconceivable" due to the suppressive effect of counterterrorism operations by the U.S. and its partners.

And even if IS were to try to launch an attack, most officials have pointed to the group's Afghan affiliate, IS-Khorasan, as the more dangerous and capable threat.

IS-Khorasan "can do external operations against U.S. or Western interests abroad in under six months with little to no warning," CENTCOM General Michael Kurilla told lawmakers last month.

Threats from #ISIS-#Khorasan most pointed vs #Europe & #Asia, per @CENTCOM's Gen Kurilla"Higher probability" ISIS-K goes after Western target not in US

 Jeff Seldin (@jseldin) March 16, 2023

Additional intelligence shared by United Nations member states for a report earlier this year suggested IS in Syria and Iraq appears to be historically weak, down to as few as 2,500 fighters in areas once covered by its self-declared caliphate, a far cry from the tens of thousands of militants once thought to be at its beck and call.

But a second U.S. official who spoke to VOA on the condition of anonymity warned that IS core, under the stewardship of a new generation of leaders, has been undeterred.

Ali's death is a "big deal," the official said, "in terms of planning ... expansion beyond the region."

"He was a key figure in these plans," he added.

And while the official said Ali will be likely replaced, his death is a clear setback.

"They lose experience. They lose capability every time we take one of these guys out," the official said.

At least 13 senior IS leaders in Syria and Iraq have been killed or captured since early 2022, including Khalid 'Aydd Ahmad al-Jabouri, responsible for planning attacks in Turkey and Europe, in a U.S. airstrike earlier this month.

NEW Overnight: US strike kills senior #ISIS leader in NW #Syria Per @CENTCOM, the April 3 strike killed Khalid 'Aydd Ahmad al-Jabouri, who was responsible for planning attacks in #Turkey #Turkiye & #Europe Initial assessment - no civilians killed or injured

 Jeff Seldin (@jseldin) April 4, 2023

Last week, CENTCOM also announced the capture of another IS official, Hudayfah al Yemeni, describing him as an "attack facilitator."

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Iranian-Backed Attacks on US Forces in Syria Caused 23 Traumatic Brain Injuries, Pentagon Says

By Carla Babb April 17, 2023

A spate of attacks from Iranian-backed militants last month on U.S. military personnel in Syria caused traumatic brain injuries in 23 military personnel, Defense Department officials tell VOA. One American contractor was killed, and 25 U.S. military personnel were wounded in the attacks.

Thirteen of the 26 casualties were the result of a follow-on attack from Iranian-backed forces in Syria conducted after the U.S. retaliated for a deadly attack in the country's northeast on March 23, according to defense officials.

The latest injury disclosure calls into question how effective the U.S. retaliatory strikes have been in deterring militants from trying to hurt American service members and contractors in Syria.

"America's response to these attacks seems to be just to want to ignore them and they will go away. But these militias are not going away," retired Colonel Myles Caggins III, a senior fellow at the New Lines Institute for Strategy and Policy, told VOA, adding that Iranian-backed attacks have been ongoing against U.S. forces in Iraq and Syria since 2018.

Asked whether the latest U.S. strikes, which targeted multiple facilities used by groups affiliated with Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, had deterred militants from conducting future attacks, Pentagon press secretary Brigadier General Pat Ryder told reporters April 13 that the U.S. military would "continue to do everything that we need to do at a time and place of our choosing to ensure that we are deterring and safeguarding our troops."

Timeline

On March 23 at a base near Hasaka known as RLZ, a suicide drone "of Iranian origin" killed a U.S. military contractor, wounded one other contractor, and caused 11 traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) in service members, according to Defense Department officials.

The U.S. retaliated later that day with what it called "proportional and deliberate" precision strikes against multiple facilities used by IRGC-backed groups, killing at least eight militants.

"No group will strike our troops with impunity," Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin said at the time of the attacks.

But militant attacks on Syrian garrisons hosting U.S. forces continued on March 24 and March 25 in a coordinated manner that showed a "higher level of sophistication" than previous attacks from Iranian-backed militants, according to a U.S. official.

First, 10 rockets targeted Mission Support Site Green Village in northeast Syria the morning of March 24. That night, several rockets targeted Mission Support Site Conoco in northeast Syria, wounding one American service member and causing 12 TBIs. Less than an hour later, three one-way attack drones targeted Green Village, and another attack drone struck Green Village in the early hours of March 25.

On March 30, the U.S. initially reported that the attacks at Green Village resulted in two traumatic brain injuries. But according to several military officials speaking to VOA, the attacks actually resulted in no injuries, and those TBIs had been misreported.

Defense officials also say a military statement issued last month saying that five service members were wounded in the attack at RLZ also was inaccurate.

The Pentagon says the traumatic brain injuries were identified during post-attack screenings that are still ongoing.

The U.S. has about 900 troops in eastern Syria to help Syrian Kurdish forces prevent a resurgence of the Islamic State terror group.

To date, U.S. officials say Iran or its proxies have carried out more than 80 attacks on U.S. forces in the Middle East since President Joe Biden took office in 2021, including a single rocket attack last Monday on Mission Support Site Conoco that resulted in no injuries or damage to the base.

The United States has retaliated by launching four major strikes against the attackers.

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Nearly 1,000 Detainees Released in Yemen

By Margaret Besheer April 17, 2023

The International Committee of the Red Cross said Monday that the warring sides in Yemen have released nearly a thousand detainees over four days.

"These release operations reunited hundreds of families just in time for Eid celebrations," said Daphnee Maret, ICRC's head of delegation in Yemen. "They were enabled by powerful acts of goodwill that will hopefully also bring us closer to seeing an end to the conflict and to years of human suffering."

From April 14 to 16, the ICRC says it operated 15 flights that saw 869 detainees returned to four cities in Yemen and two in Saudi Arabia.

Additionally, the Saudi-led coalition requested that the ICRC facilitate a separate unilateral release of 104 detainees from Saudi Arabia to Yemen.

The developments come a month after an agreement between Saudi Arabia and Iran to restore ties. Saudi Arabia has backed Yemen's internationally recognized government, while Iran supports the Houthi rebels who seized Yemen's capital in 2014.

U.N. Special Envoy for Yemen, Hans Grundberg, told the U.N. Security Council Monday that Yemen is at a "critical juncture."

"I believe we have not seen such a serious opportunity for making progress towards ending the conflict in eight years," he said in a video briefing. "But the tide could still turn unless the parties take bolder steps toward peace."

He warned that recent military activity in the governorates of Marib, Shabwa, Taiz and elsewhere could spill over, and he urged maximum restraint and for the parties to refrain from provocative actions and continue to engage with his office on de-escalation.

There has been recent engagement between the Saudis and Omanis with the Houthis in Sana'a, as well as Saudi discussions with their allies on the Presidential Leadership council.

"Any new agreement in Yemen must be a clear step toward a Yemeni-led political process," Grundberg said. "It needs to include a strong commitment from the parties to meet and negotiate in good faith with one another."

The conflict in Yemen has exacerbated an already tough humanitarian situation, with the United Nations estimating 80% of the population needs humanitarian aid and protection.

Chris Hannas contributed to this report.

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US Top Diplomat Calls for Ceasefire in Sudan as Death Toll Nears 200

By Michael Atit April 18, 2023

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has called the leaders of Sudan's two warring factions and urged them to agree to a ceasefire as the death toll nears 200.

The U.S. State Department issued a statement late Monday saying Blinken had spoken separately with General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, commander of the country's armed forces, and General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, the head of the Rapid Support Forces. He urged them to end the fighting to permit delivery of humanitarian assistance to those affected by the conflict and allow the reunification of Sudanese families.

The statement said Blinken urged Burhan and Dagalo to allow the international community in Khartoum "to make sure its presence is secure," and stressed the responsibility of the two generals "to ensure the safety and wellbeing of civilians, diplomatic personnel, and humanitarian workers."

Secretary Blinken's call to the two Sudanese rivals was one of many from the international community urging peace in the north African country. A communique issued Tuesday from the G-7 foreign ministers' meeting in Karuizawa, Japan condemned the fighting, which they said, "threatens the security and safety of Sudanese civilians and undermines efforts to restore Sudan's democratic transition."

"We urge the parties to end hostilities immediately without pre-conditions. We call on all actors to renounce violence, return to negotiations, and take active steps to reduce tensions and ensure the safety of all civilians, including diplomatic and humanitarian personnel," the communique continued.

Both military factions fighting for control in Sudan claimed to have made gains Monday, as the death toll from the violence exceeded 180 amid calls from Washington, multiple international bodies and capitals around the world for an immediate cease-fire.

Residents in Khartoum reported hearing fighter jets and anti-aircraft fire after night fell Monday as the violence between Sudan's military and a paramilitary force raged through a third day.

Volker Perthes, the United Nations special representative to Sudan, told reporters by video link from Khartoum Monday that at least 185 people had been killed and more than 1,800 wounded since fighting erupted Saturday.

The number of casualties from the fighting is likely to rise, with many of the wounded unable to reach hospitals for treatment. A Sudanese doctors' group said the fighting had also "heavily damaged" multiple hospitals around the capital.

Large portions of the capital were without electricity and water. The violence also affected Khartoum's adjoining sister cities of Omdurman and Bahri, with bridges linking the cities blocked by armored vehicles.

U.N. chief Antonio Guterres on Monday again condemned the outbreak of fighting and appealed to the leaders of Sudan's military and the RSF paramilitary group "to immediately cease hostilities, restore calm and begin a dialogue to resolve the crisis."

"I urge all those with influence over the situation to use it in the cause of peace," he said, adding that "the humanitarian situation in Sudan was already precarious and is now catastrophic."

The two military factions battling for control of Sudan had shared power during a shaky political transition. The clashes are part of a power struggle between General Burhan, who also heads the transitional council, and General Dagalo, also known as Hemedti, the deputy head of the transitional council.

John Kirby, coordinator for strategic communications at the National Security Council, told reporters on Monday that U.S. officials had "been in direct contact" with both generals "to urge them to end the hostilities immediately." He added that U.S. officials were also working closely with the African Union, the Arab League and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, an East African bloc.

"We call for an immediate cease-fire, without conditions, between the Sudanese armed forces and the Rapid Support Forces," he said. "As Secretary Blinken mentioned this morning, the fighting is killing civilians and threatens the Sudanese nation as well as stability in the region."

But when asked by VOA what specific leverage the U.S. has to influence the warring parties, Kirby said, "I'm not going to speak to specific diplomatic leverage."

He added that all U.S. personnel in the north African nation were accounted for and are sheltering in place. He said there are no plans to evacuate them at this time.

The RSF claimed Monday it had captured an airport and military bases. The military claimed it regained control of the main television station and said it was in control of its headquarters after brief fighting there.

The fighting in Khartoum has forced most people to stay inside. Offices, schools and gas stations are closed.

In the Al-Kalakla neighborhood south of Khartoum, the situation seemed to be relatively calm, as people ventured out to get basic supplies.

Wisal Mohammed, a mother of three, told VOA this is the first time in three days that she's come out to get food for her children. She said she does not have electricity or water and that she would not be able to travel if there was an emergency.

Al Muiz Hassan, a grocer in the Abu Adam neighborhood south of Khartoum, told VOA he is worried about being robbed and has only partially opened his shop as a precaution.

"The fighting has affected all the shops, not only mine," he said.

Residents of Khartoum said there has been no police presence on the city's streets since the military clashes began.

The European Union said its envoy to Sudan was assaulted in his own residence on Monday, but it did not give further details.

Blinken confirmed that a U.S. diplomatic convoy came under fire Monday, adding that initial reports indicated the attack was by forces linked to the Rapid Support Forces.

Calls to end the fighting have come from around the world and within Africa, including the African Union, the Arab League and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD).

IGAD said Kenyan President William Ruto, South Sudanese President Salva Kiir and Djibouti President Omar Guelleh will go to Khartoum to broker an immediate cease-fire.

"President Salva Kiir has already been in touch with both General Burhan and General Hemedti to convey the message of the summit. ... Now, preparations are on the way to undertake this mission," Nuur Mohamud Sheekh, a spokesperson for IGAD's executive secretary, told VOA.

Sudan's two top generals, however, have yet to express a willingness to negotiate and each has demanded the other's surrender.

Dagalo said Monday on Twitter that he was defending democracy in Sudan and called Burhan a "radical Islamist." Dagalo's forces emerged out of the notorious Janjaweed militias in Sudan's Darfur region and have been accused of carrying out atrocities in the region.

The two generals are former allies who together orchestrated an October 2021 military coup that derailed a transition to civilian rule following the 2019 ouster of longtime leader Omar al-Bashir.

Tensions between the generals have been growing over disagreements about how the RSF should be integrated in the army and who should oversee that process. The restructuring of the military was part of an effort to restore the country to civilian rule and end the political crisis sparked by the 2021 military coup.

"It's another example of the generals feeling threatened by a transition that might have diminished their powers, might have diminished the monopoly that they control," said Jeffrey Feltman, a visiting fellow at the Brookings Institution and former special envoy to the Horn of Africa at the U.S. State Department.

"What we have now is a fight for power. It's a lust for power  who is going to prevail among these two generals," Feltman told VOA.

Pro-democracy activists have accused both generals of being involved in human rights abuses.

In addition to the fighting around Khartoum, violence has also broken out in Sudan's western Darfur region, threatening to renew a decades-old conflict that killed hundreds of thousands of people.

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) announced Monday it has halted much of its operations in Sudan because of the fighting.

In a statement, IRC regional Vice President Kurt Tjossem said, "Conflict has disrupted humanitarian action where over a third of the population, an estimated 15 million people, including refugees, are experiencing acute food insecurity. Humanitarian actors have limited ability to enter and operate in areas with ongoing war."

The World Food Program also suspended its operations in the country after the deaths of three of its staff members.

The African Union's Peace and Security Council held an emergency meeting on Sunday in Nairobi to discuss the situation in Sudan. Participants appealed to the Sudanese military and RSF leaders to de-escalate conflict and restore stability.

Carol Van Dam Falk, Mariama Diallo, Margaret Besheer, Antia Powell and Nike Ching contributed to this report. Some information for this article came from The Associated Press, Reuters and Agence France-Presse.

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Russo-Ukraine War - 17 April 2023 - Day 418

Su M Tu W Th F Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While GlobalSecurity.org takes utmost care to accurately report this news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

On 24 February 2022, Ukraine was suddenly and deliberately attacked by land, naval and air forces of Russia, igniting the largest European war since the Great Patriotic War. Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a "special military operation" (SVO - spetsialnaya voennaya operatsiya) in Ukraine in response to the appeal of the leaders of the "Donbass republics" for help. That attack is a blatant violation of the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. Putin stressed that Moscow's goal is the demilitarization and denazification of the country. The military buildup in preceeding months makes it obvious that the unprovoked and dastardly Russian attack was deliberately planned long in advance. During the intervening time, the Russian government had deliberately sought to deceive the world by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace.

"To initiate a war of aggression... is not only an international crime; it is the supreme international crime differing only from other war crimes in that it contains within itself the accumulated evil of the whole." [Judgment of the International Military Tribunal]

The UK Ministry of Defence reported that mine-related civilian casualties continue to be reported daily in Ukraine. The most affected areas are Kherson and Kharkiv oblasts: areas Russia has previously occupied.

With the arrival of spring, and more people involved in agricultural activities, the risk of civilian mine incidents will increase.

Over 750 mine related casualties among civilians have been reported since the start of the invasion - one in eight has involved a child. It will likely take at least a decade to clear Ukraine of mines.

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that during the day of April 17, Russian forces launched 34x air strikes and 31x MLRS attacks that caused casualties among civilian population. The Russian aggressor keeps using terror tactics. The likelihood of missile and air strikes across Ukraine remains high.

Russia suffers considerable losses and focuses its main efforts on offensive operations on Kup'yans'k, Lyman, Bakhmut, Avdiivka, and Mar'inka axes. During the day of April 17, Ukrainian Defense Forces repelled more than 50x Russian attacks in these areas of the frontline. Bakhmut, and Mar'inka remain at the epicenter of the fighting.

Volyn, Polissya, Sivershchyna, and Slobozhanshchyna axes: no signs of the formation of Russian offensive groups were found. Comprehensive inspection of the combat readiness of the armed forces of the Republic of Belarus is underway.

During the day of April 17, Russian forces shelled the settlements of Sosnivka, Popivka, Iskryskivshchyna (Sumy oblast); Okip, Bairak, Vovchans'k, Okhrimivka, and Nesterne (Kharkiv oblast).

Kup'yans'k axis: Russian forces conducted unsuccessful offensives near the settlement of Syn'kivka. Topoli, Krasne Pershe, Novomlyns'k, Dvorichna, and Zapadne (Kharkiv oblast) came under Russian fire.

Lyman axis: Russian forces attempted unsuccessful offensive operations in the vicinities of Spirne.

Stel'makhivka, Nevs'ke, Bilohorivka (Luhansk oblast); Ivanivka, and Spirne (Donetsk oblast) came under artillery fire.

Bakhmut axis: fighting for the city of Bakhmut continues. Russian forces attempted an advance in the vicinity of Ivanivs'ke and Predtechyne. Vasyukivka, Min'kivka, Orikhovo-Vasylivka, Novomarkove, Bakhmut, Ivanivske, Chasiv Yar, Novodmytrivka, and Toretsk (Donetsk oblast) suffered from Russian shelling.

Avdiivka axis: Russian forces conducted unsuccessful offensive operations in the vicinities of Novokalynove, Sjeverne, and Pervomais'ke (Donetsk oblast). The invaders shelled Keramik, Novokalynove, Berdychi, Avdiivka, Tonen'ke, Netaylove, Pervomais'ke, and Karlivka.

Mar'inka axis: Ukrainian defenders repelled numerous Russian attacks in the vicinity of Mar'inka (Donetsk oblast). At the same time, the settlements of Krasnohorivka, Mar'inka, Pobjeda, and Novomykhailivka (Donetsk oblast) were shelled by Russian forces.

Shakhtars'ke axis: Russian forces did not conduct any offensive operations during the day of April 17. The Russian invaders shelled the settlements of Shakhtars'ke, Novoukrainka, Velyka Novosilka, Neskuchne, Zolota Nyva, Prechystivka, and Vuhledar (Donetsk oblast).

Zaporizhzhia and Kherson axes: Russia stays on the defensive. During the day of April 17, the Russian invaders shelled several settlements, including Vremivka, Novopil' (Donetsk oblast); Malynivka, Chervone, Hulyaipole, Charivne, Mala Tokmachka, Orikhiv (Zaporizhzhia oblast); Nikopol' (Dnipropetrovsk oblast); Zolota Balka, Beryslav, L'vove, Ivanivka, Mykil's'ke, Antonivka (Kherson oblast); and the city of Kherson.

About 200x newly mobilized members of reserve units of Russian occupation forces have arrived in Zaitseve (Donetsk oblast) to replenish casualties. These military were identified to have low morale due to the lack of clear instructions as to their further employment, the short period of individual and collective training, and inadequate logistics. Therefore, the newly-recruited occupiers are looking for any excuse to avoid participation in combat actions.

During the day of April 17, Ukrainian Air Force launched 12x air strikes on the concentrations of Russian troops. Ukrainian Defense Forces shot down 1x "Merlin" reconnaissance UAV. During the day of April 17, Ukrainian missile and artillery troops hit 2x concentrations of Russian troops, and 1x electronic warfare station.

The Russian Ministry of Defense reported that, according to the Rybar Telegram channel, most of the railway station in Bakhmut has been liberated by Wagner PMC fighters. To the north, the Armed Forces of Ukraine (APU) are knocked out of the elevator, but continue to counterattack.

Russian units have entrenched themselves on Kraynaya Street and are storming the enemy fortifications on Pobedy Street. They also managed to advance to the garages in the Poselok area, passing along Levanevskogo Street.

To the north of the city, positional battles are taking place, during which the fortifications of the 56th brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and the firing point in Malinovka were hit by artillery.

To the south of Seversk, Ukrainian units received reinforcements: crews of Stugna anti-tank missile systems arrived.

In the meantime, near Belogorovka, Russian fighters made their way through the enemy defenses to the south of the village and now got involved in clashes on the southeastern outskirts.

The situation in other directions

During the day, combat units of the RF Armed Forces, as well as artillery and aviation, inflicted damage on the enemy along the entire line of contact. Up to 490 Ukrainian servicemen, 3 Akatsiya and Gvozdika self-propelled howitzers, 8 armored vehicles, a tank, an infantry fighting vehicle, 10 vehicles, Msta-B and M777 guns were eliminated.

Attacks were made on 95 artillery positions of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and 123 areas of accumulation of manpower and equipment, 3 shells from HIMARS and 4 drones were intercepted. Under Sinkovka, Kislovka, Stelmakhovka and Novomikhailovka, the activities of four sabotage groups were suppressed.

In addition, in the area of the settlement of Kupyevakha, Ukrainian radar stations for all-round visibility and targeting P-18 and 36D6 were destroyed. Near Novodanilovka and Novoandreevka, an ammunition depot was blown up, as well as a hangar with weapons and equipment of the 65th brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

On the border of the DPR and the Rostov region, when scanning a bus, 200 grams of hexogen (explosive) were found. At the same time, only law enforcement officers in civilian clothes were in the cabin. An investigation has been initiated.





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Russo-Ukraine War - 18 April 2023 - Day 419

Su M Tu W Th F Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While GlobalSecurity.org takes utmost care to accurately report this news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

On 24 February 2022, Ukraine was suddenly and deliberately attacked by land, naval and air forces of Russia, igniting the largest European war since the Great Patriotic War. Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a "special military operation" (SVO - spetsialnaya voennaya operatsiya) in Ukraine in response to the appeal of the leaders of the "Donbass republics" for help. That attack is a blatant violation of the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. Putin stressed that Moscow's goal is the demilitarization and denazification of the country. The military buildup in preceeding months makes it obvious that the unprovoked and dastardly Russian attack was deliberately planned long in advance. During the intervening time, the Russian government had deliberately sought to deceive the world by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace.

"To initiate a war of aggression... is not only an international crime; it is the supreme international crime differing only from other war crimes in that it contains within itself the accumulated evil of the whole." [Judgment of the International Military Tribunal]

The UK Ministry of Defence reported that heavy fighting has continued along the Donbas front line. However, there is a realistic possibility that Russia has reduced troop numbers and is decreasing offensive action around Donetsk city, most likely to divert resources towards the Bakhmut sector.

In Bakhmut, Russian MoD and Wagner Group forces continue to make creeping advances. The front line in the town centre largely follows the main railway line. Ukraine is generally holding Russia's envelopment from the south along the line of Korsunskovo Street, the old main road west out of town.

For both sides, the exact sequencing of any major drawdown of their units around Bakhmut has become a critical question, with Ukraine wanting to free-up an offensive force while Russia likely aspires to regenerate an operational reserve.

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that during the day of April 18, Russian forces launched 4x missile, 44x air strikes, around 20x MLRS attacks at the positions of Ukrainian troops and settlements. The attacks caused civilian casualties. The likelihood of missile and air strikes across Ukraine remains quite high.

Russia continues to wage its war of aggression at the cost of heavy losses. The Russian invaders' main focus is the offensive operations on Lyman, Bakhmut, Avdiivka, and Mar'inka axes. During the day of April 18, Ukrainian Defense Forces repelled around 30x attacks of the adversary in these areas of the frontline. The fiercest fighting is for Bakhmut and Mar'inka.

Volyn, Polissya, Sivershchyna, and Slobozhanshchyna axes: no significant changes. Certain units of the armed forces of the Republic of Belarus continue their missions in the areas bordering Ukraine. Certain units of the territorial troops of the Russian Armed Forces continue their deployment on the territory of belarus.

Russia continues to maintain military presence in the areas of Bryansk, Kursk, and Belgorod oblasts (Russia) bordering Ukraine.

During the day of April 18, Russian forces shelled the settlements of Koren'ok, Boyaro-Lezhachi, Iskryskivshchyna, Volfyne (Sumy oblast), Veterynarne, Kozacha Lopan', Hlyboke, Vovchans'k, Bochkove, Okhrimivka, and Nesterne (Kharkiv oblast).

Kup'yans'k axis: Kam'yanka, Ridkodub, Krasne Pershe, Novomlyns'k, Dvorichna, and Zapadne (Kharkiv oblast) were shelled with artillery.

Lyman axis: Russian forces attempted to improve the tactical situation and conducted unsuccessful offensives near the settlement of Dibrova. Stel'makhivka, Nevs'ke, Bilohorivka (Luhansk oblast), Ivanivka, Tors'ke, and Spirne (Donetsk oblast) were shelled with artillery.

Bakhmut axis: Russia continues its offensive operations.

Heavy battles for the city of Bakhmut continue. Vasyukivka, Min'kivka, Orikhovo-Vasylivka, Hryhorivka, Bakhmut, Ivanivske, Chasiv Yar, Kostyantynivka, Toretsk, and New York, (Donetsk oblast) suffered from Russian shelling.

Avdiivka axis: Russian forces conducted offensive operations in the vicinities of Stepove, Berdychiv, Avdiivka, Sjeverne, and Nevel's'ke (Donetsk oblast), to no success. The targets of the invaders' shelling included the settlements of Novokalynove, Avdiivka, Tonen'ke, and Pervomais'ke.

Mar'inka axis: during the day of April 18, Ukrainian defenders repelled numerous Russian attacks in the vicinity of settlement of Mar'inka. At the same time, Krasnohorivka, Mar'inka, Heorhiivka, Pobjeda, and Novomykhailivka (Donetsk oblast) were shelled by Russian forces.

Shakhtars'ke axis: Russian forces did not conduct any offensive operations during During the day of April 18. The Russian invaders shelled the settlements of Shakhtars'ke, Vuhledar, Novoukrainka, and Velyka Novosilka (Donetsk oblast).

Zaporizhzhia and Kherson axes: Russia stays on the defensive. The invaders shelled several settlements, including Novopil' (Donetsk oblast), Ol'hivs'ke, Chervone, Hulyaipole, Charivne, Orikhiv, Stepove, Plavni (Zaporizhzhia oblast), Antonivka (Kherson oblast), and the city of Kherson. The attacks killed civilians.

During the day of April 18, Ukrainian Air Force air strikes launched 3x air strikes on the concentrations of Russian troops and 1x anti-aircraft missile system. Ukrainian missile and artillery troops hit 2x concentrations of troops, weapons and military equipment, 1x electronic warfare station depots, and 1x other critical military target of the Russian occupant forces.

The Russian Ministry of Defense reported that units of PMC "Wagner" continue to advance in the northern, central and southern parts of Bakhmut. During the day, units of Ukrainian troops in the areas of Vasyukovka, Minkovka, Orekhovo-Vasilevka, Grigorovka, Krasny, Chasov Yar were under fire.

During the briefing, the Russian Ministry of Defense stated that aviation carried out 6 sorties in the Bakhmut direction in a day, artillery performed 63 fire missions. According to official data of the Ministry of Defense, the losses of Ukrainian troops per day exceeded 290 servicemen.

The situation in other directions

DNR

During the day, Ukrainian troops fired on Donetsk, Makeevka, Vladimirovka. As a result of attacks in the capital of the DPR, 3 civilians were killed, another was injured. Residential buildings were also damaged.

The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation during the briefing reported on the strikes on the positions of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the areas of Ugledar and Novopol. In the districts of Ternov and Avdiivka, the command posts of the Armed Forces of Ukraine were hit.

The Ukrainian command is transferring additional forces to the Ugledar direction. According to the Rybar Telegram channel, the Armed Forces of Ukraine are understaffing in the Novoukrainka area, and a large number of people and equipment are concentrated in positions in Bogatyr.

Acting head of the DPR Denis Pushilin and President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko held a meeting during which they discussed cooperation between the people's republic and Minsk. According to Pushilin, Donetsk is interested in the supply of Belarusian equipment - in particular, BELAZ and MAZ.

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky visited the positions of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in Avdiivka, his office said. The apparatus noted that he heard the report of the commander of the local group of troops and presented awards to the military.

LC

During the day, Russian units hit enemy units in the areas of Chervonaya Dibrova and Chervonopopovka, the Russian Defense Ministry reported. In addition, the work of the sabotage and reconnaissance group (DRG) of the Armed Forces of Ukraine was stopped near Novoselovsky.

On the territory of the LPR, mobile Internet was launched in test mode, said the acting head of the republic, Leonid Pasechnik. Previously, this type of communication was disabled for security reasons.

Zaporozhye region

In the Zaporozhye region, during the fire damage, 2 ammunition depots of Ukrainian troops were destroyed. In addition, during the day, Russian units attacked enemy positions in the areas of Malaya Tokmachka and Poltavka.

The authorities of the region intend to revive the Cossack structures, said the acting head of the Zaporizhia region Yevhen Balitsky. According to him, with the support of the administration, a meeting of leaders of Cossack organizations has already been held, where it was decided to create a registered army.

Kherson region

Over 25 Ukrainian servicemen were liquidated in the Kherson direction during the day. The Russian Ministry of Defense also reported on the destruction of 3 vehicles, the M777 artillery system and 2 D-30 howitzers of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

The Ukrainian army is preparing to cross the Dnieper, said Acting Governor of the Kherson region Volodymyr Saldo. According to him, a large amount of equipment of the Armed Forces of Ukraine is concentrated on the right bank of the river, which indicates the plans of the Ukrainian command to organize a landing on the left bank.





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China-Russia military ties to enhance amid Chinese defense chief's visit to Moscow, 'key to world peace, containing and deterring hegemony'

Global Times

By Yang Sheng and Liu Xuanzun Published: Apr 17, 2023 09:43 PM Updated: Apr 17, 2023 11:08 PM

The ongoing visit of Chinese defense chief Li Shangfu to Russia received high standard reception and also drew great attention globally, as Western media try to connect the China-Russia military ties with the ongoing Ukraine crisis, with Chinese analysts saying on Monday the strategic partnership between the two countries has no ill intention or conspiracy to hide and will never target any third party.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has paid a state visit to Russia in March, and in a joint statement signed by the two countries during this major diplomatic activity, the two sides pointed out that China-Russia relations are not the kind of military-political alliance seen during the Cold War, but transcend such a model of state-to-state relations and have the nature of no-alliance, no-confrontation and don't targeting any third party.

Therefore, all kinds of cooperation, including military ones, between the two countries, such as joint military drills and other normal cooperation for national defense, will not harm any other country's national security, so the China-Russia high-level military cooperation doesn't contradict China's neutral and responsible stance for a political solution of the Ukraine crisis, said experts.

Analysts also stressed that China-Russia military cooperation not only serves the mutual interests but is also significant in boosting multi-polarization of the world order to contain and deter hegemony.

Special and high-level

Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Chinese State Councilor and Minister of National Defense Li in Kremlin in Moscow on Sunday, the Xinhua News Agency reported on Monday. Li is paying an official visit to Russia from April 16 to 19 at the invitation of his Russian counterpart Sergei Shoigu.

Putin said at the meeting with Li that military cooperation plays an important role in Russia-China relations, and he hopes that the two militaries will strengthen cooperation in joint training, professional exchanges and other fields, and that the strategic mutual trust between the two countries will continue to be deepened.

Li said that the two heads of state steer the development of China-Russia relations and the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era has been continuously deepened. The military mutual trust between the two countries has been increasingly consolidated with substantial progress in cooperation.

China is willing to work with Russia to fully implement the consensus reached by the two heads of state, further strengthen the strategic communication between the two militaries and bolster multilateral coordination and cooperation so as to make new contributions to safeguarding global and regional security and stability, said the Chinese defense minister.

According to the media, during the meeting with Putin, Li said that he specifically came to Russia for his first foreign visit after assuming the post of defense minister to tell the world the high-level and special nature of the China-Russia relations.

The meeting in the Kremlin was also attended by Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu. Li and Shoigu are scheduled to discuss "the current state and prospects for the development of bilateral cooperation in the defense sphere, as well as current issues of global and regional security," according to TASS.

Cooperation for peace

Zhang Hong, an associate research fellow at the Institute of Russian, Eastern European, and Central Asian Studies at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, told the Global Times on Monday that "the China-Russia military cooperation is a long-standing tradition, and the two countries have annual routine joint military exercises and many other military and security cooperation. These existed long before the Ukraine crisis."

If this normal and legitimate cooperation had been affected by the Ukraine crisis or pressure from the US, then it would be strange, so the visit of Li to Russia is sending a signal to the world that China-Russia military ties have no conspiracy or ill intention to hide, and the two militaries will keep on cooperating in the future for world peace and mutual interests, Zhang said.

Although there are some voices from the West trying to misinterpret the China-Russia military cooperation to undermine China's neutral position on the Ukraine crisis, Reuters reported on Monday that NATO and the US say they have seen no signs yet that China is supplying arms to Russia.

US officials and some Western media have failed to prove their conspiracy theory or groundless hypothesis of "China supporting Russia with lethal weapons to fight Ukraine" with any hard evidence, and the reason why they keep doing so is to undermine China's reputation, reliability and creditability to mediate the Ukraine crisis, experts said.

Washington is very anxious as it can't find an effective way to stop China from promoting peace, which makes the US look increasingly embarrassing as more and more countries see the fact that Washington is the one who adds fuel to the fire, experts noted.

Li was sanctioned by the US for purchasing Russian weapons for the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) when he was in charge of China's Equipment Development Department of the Central Military Commission. The administration of then US President Donald Trump sanctioned Li and the department in 2018 for purchasing Russian weapons, including Su-35 combat aircraft and S-400 surface-to-air missile systems.

Chinese analysts said Li's visit to Russia is also a signal jointly sent by China and Russia to the US that their cooperation, including the military ones, will not be impacted by the US pressure.

Military cooperation

China and Russia will regularly organize maritime, aerial joint patrols and joint exercises, enhance all kinds of exchanges and cooperation between the two militaries including those under current bilateral mechanisms, and further deepen military mutual trust, reads the Joint Statement of the People's Republic of China and the Russian Federation on Deepening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership of Coordination for the New Era signed by Xi and Putin during Xi's visit to Russia in March.

China and Russia have already been holding such joint patrols and joint exercises over recent years, with the two countries' armies, navies and air forces joining each other in naval patrols in the Pacific Ocean, aerial patrols in the Sea of Japan, the East China Sea and the Pacific Ocean, the Joint Sea series naval exercises and the strategic military drills like Vostok-2022 in Russia and Zapad/Interaction-2021 in China.

The scope, scale and frequency of such joint patrols and joint exercises are expected to continue to expand, observers said.

Song Zhongping, a Chinese military and TV commentator, told the Global Times that joint drills between China and Russia contribute to safeguarding regional peace and stability. There could also be military technological cooperation, Song said.

In terms of such defense cooperation, Putin announced in October 2019 that Russia was helping China to create an early missile warning system that would drastically enhance the defensive capacity of China, Russian news agency TASS reported at the time.

Russia is more experienced in developing and operating such a system than China because of the high nuclear threats the Soviet Union had faced from the US during the Cold War. Such a system would identify and send warnings immediately after intercontinental ballistic missiles are launched, observers said.

Cui Heng, an assistant research fellow from the Center for Russian Studies of East China Normal University, told the Global Times on Monday that China and Russia are two major powers, and also nuclear-armed powers, and the close coordination and cooperation between these two countries should be seen as a positive signal that will contribute to world peace.

China and Russia have powerful military strengths and significant strategic influence globally, and they are the key powers to contain and deter hegemony, and to safeguard peace and stability in many regions with strategic significance which are under threats caused by external forces, said experts.

This is why countries like South Africa and Iran had joint maritime exercises with Chinese and Russian navies in February and March despite pressure from the US and the West, and Central Asian countries also have mechanism of joint military exercises with China and Russia for countering terrorism, separatism and religious extremism in the region, experts said.

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PLA Army commissions new self-propelled anti-aircraft systems with drone threats in mind

Global Times

By Liu Xuanzun Published: Apr 17, 2023 08:05 PM

The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Army has taken delivery of a batch of new self-propelled anti-aircraft systems that analysts said on Monday have drone threats in mind.

An air defense brigade affiliated with the PLA 71st Group Army recently held a commissioning ceremony for dozens of new combat vehicles, the PLA Eastern Theater Command said in a press release on Sunday.

Photos attached to the press release show that the newly delivered vehicles are a type of truck-mounted anti-aircraft system integrated with a rotary cannon, a set of missile launchers, a radar system and a set of smoke dischargers, all on a wheeled vehicle.

The press release did not provide further details, including the designation of the system.

This type of self-propelled anti-aircraft system, which is similar to a naval close-in weapon system but runs on land, has been observed in service with other PLA Army units since 2022, including a combined arms brigade affiliated with the 75th Group Army and the Xizang Military Command, according to official media reports.

Its rotary gun has six 25-milimeter-caliber barrels. Combined with the four FN-16/HY-6B air defense missiles on the turret, the system can cover an air defense radius of three to four kilometers against helicopters, cruise missiles, loitering munitions and low-flying drones, Shanghai-based news website eastday.com reported at the time.

Low-flying, slow and small targets like drones and loitering munitions have become one of the biggest threats in air defense in modern warfare, as demonstrated in the Ukraine crisis. Traditional medium- to long-range air defense systems often ignore such targets, and traditional interception methods are also too costly, observers said.

The new self-propelled anti-aircraft system can be used in mobile air defense, meaning that it can provide air defense to troops on the move rather than staying in a fixed position, Fu Qianshao, a Chinese military aviation expert, told the Global Times on Monday.

With special radar and sensors, it can target drones that are difficult to spot and come in large numbers or in a swarm, and choose to use a gun or missile based on the situation, Fu said.

Since such drones are inexpensive, using the less expensive gun is more reasonable than using the missiles, but the missiles provide versatility and cover more situations, the expert said.

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As UN Security Council Dithers, North Korea Progresses on WMD

By Margaret Besheer April 17, 2023

A senior United Nations official warned Monday that North Korea is hitting "significant milestones" in its five-year military development plan, including its launch last week of a reported solid fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM).

"The lack of unity and action in the Security Council does little to slow the negative trajectory on the Korean Peninsula," U.N. deputy political chief Khaled Khiari told an emergency meeting of the council. "The DPRK is unconstrained, and other parties are compelled to focus on military deterrence."

DPRK are the initials for the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, or North Korea.

He noted the April 13 launch of what Pyongyang said was a solid fuel ICBM, as well as dozens of ballistic missile launches since the five-year plan was announced in January 2021.

"Most of the systems it tested are capable of striking countries in the immediate region," Khiari said. "The systems it tested on 13 April, 16 March and 18 February, as well as on two occasions last year, are capable of reaching most points on the Earth."

U.N. Security Council resolutions prohibit North Korea from using ballistic missile technology.

The council has adopted several sanctions resolutions on North Korea since 2006, the last in December 2017. But in recent years, China and Russia have blocked further council action, even as Pyongyang's missile launches have become more frequent, and concerns grow that a seventh nuclear test may be planned.

China's envoy defended Pyongyang, saying U.S. joint military exercises are the "main trigger" for issues on the Korean Peninsula and criticized its "flip-flop" on policy toward North Korea.

"The parties should deeply reflect on the lessons from the past and come to realize that a show of goodwill is vital to building mutual trust and creating the conditions necessary for peace talks," Ambassador Zhang Jun said.

The U.N.'s Khiari noted that the Marshal of the Korean People's Army issued a statement Monday opposing the council's meeting.

The United States has repeatedly said it is willing to hold talks with North Korea.

Ahead of the meeting, council members Albania, Britain, Ecuador, France, Japan, Malta, Switzerland, the United Arab Emirates and the United States, along with South Korea, issued a statement strongly condemning the solid fuel launch.

"The Security Council must overcome its prolonged silence, act on its responsibility to effectively address this security threat, and promote peace and stability in the Korean Peninsula," U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield said on behalf of the group.

South Korea, which is not a council member but participated in Monday's meeting as an interested party, urged the council to do more to stop revenue flowing to Pyongyang's weapons of mass destruction programs.

"The DPRK profits massively from its malicious cyber activities and overseas IT workers with forged identities and nationalities all around the world, which have a seriously destabilizing effect on the international peace and security," Ambassador Hwang Joon-kook said.

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FM Spox: US still a power but no longer a superpower

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Apr 17, 2023

Tehran, IRNA -- Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Nasser Kanaani has rejected the concept of a unipolar world, saying that the United States is still a power, but it is no longer a superpower.

Kanaani made the remarks addressing his press conference on Monday.

Referring to the recent developments between Iran and Saudi Arabia, he said that the Islamic Republic of Iran is a country that enjoys many capacities and has always been one of the influential members in regional and international developments due to its undeniable role in regional equations.

Regarding the invitation of heads of Iran and Saudi Arabia, Kanaani said Iranian and Saudi foreign ministers had earlier invited each other.

The invitation from Saudi king for President Ebrahim Raisi has also been received and the Iranian president has invited the Saudi king as well.

We do not tie relations with the world to the JCPOA, he stressed.

He noted that Iran will not limit its foreign relations to a specific region or a specific bloc.

Commenting on the issue of Afghanistan, Kanaani said that Iran's policy regarding Afghanistan is not ambiguous and contradictory.

He emphasized that Iran supports peace and stability in Afghanistan.

Among Iran's approaches with regard to Afghanistan's issue are opposition to the presence of foreign actors under various pretexts and the use of different tools, including terrorism, and opposition to foreign intervention in this country, he said.

During the Samarkand summit, in a meeting with Acting Foreign Minister of Afghanistan's Taliban Amir Khan Muttaqi, Iran stressed the necessity of forming an inclusive government with the participation of all ethnic groups and an effective fight against terrorism, drug production, and trafficking; serious opposition to depriving women education; preventing women from playing their roles and having jobs, he said.

Kanaani rejected duality in Iran's stance toward Afghanistan and the Taliban, saying that the issue of the Helmand water right was followed up during the Samarkand summit.

He noted that border security and solving the issues related to millions of Afghan refugees need coordination.

Elsewhere in his remarks, he pointed to the issue of Azerbaijan, saying that the Islamic Republic of Iran and Azerbaijan have enemies.

The Zionist regime is one of the enemies of the bilateral relations between the two countries and two nations, he added.

The Islamic Republic of Iran underlines establishing good neighborliness and friendly relations and mutual respect and focusing on common interests, Kanaani said.

Understanding these concerns that some people benefit from creating differences between the two countries, Iran tried to overcome the recent tensions through diplomatic initiatives and used political and diplomatic approaches to manage relations, he said.

Touching on the talks between the Islamic Republic and the world powers, he said that Iran has never left the negotiating table and has always expressed readiness to conclude the negotiations on lifting sanctions.

The West is seeking to launch a hybrid war against Iran, Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman further noted.

Referring to the court verdict on the downing of the Ukrainian passenger plane near Tehran's Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) in 2020, Kanaani noted that the court's decision over the incident is in accordance with the Chicago Convention on which the Islamic Republic of Iran acted responsibly.

He went on to say that the verdict is also based on the national laws of Iran in which the accident took place.

The maximum sentences have been issued in this regard, the official added.

As to the ongoing conflict in Sudan, he said that the security and stability of the state are of prime importance to the Islamic Republic.

Kanaani termed Sudan as an important Islamic, Arabic country.

Considering the constructive efforts made by all sides willing to de-escalate tensions in Sudan, he hoped that the bloody conflict would come to and in the Islamic country.

Touching upon Syria's return to the Arab League, Kanaani expressed satisfaction over the published news and hoped that the processes of Syria's return to the Arab League would occur quickly.

He expressed his pleasure about the positive and promising movements in the region, highlighting that the Islamic Republic of Iran welcomes any diplomatic efforts to restore mutual ties among Arab countries with Syria.

When asked about the different stance of Qatar with other members of the League on Syria's return, he said that he had not received confirmed news to make a comment.

9376**9417**3266**7129

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International Outcry After Kremlin Critic Kara-Murza Sentenced To 25 Years For Denouncing Invasion Of Ukraine

By RFE/RL April 17, 2023

Journalist Vladimir Kara-Murza, a Russian-British dual national and one of the Kremlin's most vocal critics, has been sentenced to 25 years in prison by a Moscow court after a closed-door trial for treason and other offenses, sparking an international outcry and calls for his immediate release.

The Moscow City Court, overflowing with reporters, diplomats, and supporters, handed down its verdict in the trial on April 17, just over a year after Kara-Murza, who twice nearly died after what he says were deliberate poisoning attacks, was arrested on the charge of spreading "false information" about Russia's armed forces. He denies the charges.

After his sentence was pronounced, Kara-Murza, who reporters said sat almost motionless inside a glass cage in the courtroom while listening to the judge, proclaimed that "Russia will be free," an opposition slogan.

"This sentence shows that they are so afraid of him and that they hate him so much for his consistency, for his courage, for his amazing bravery," Yevgenia Kara-Murza told a Washington Post conference.

She added that her husband put his life on the line for a democratic Russia "where human rights are respected, where the government does not persecute its own citizens for opposing the official narrative."

Russian news agencies quoted Maria Eismont, part of his defense team, as saying they would immediately appeal the judgement because of various legal violations.

Another of Kara-Murza's lawyers, Vadim Prokhorov, said the case was "political revenge" and that the closed-door format was "absolutely illegal," as there were no secret documents presented at the trial.

U.S. Ambassador to Russia Lynne Tracy said the ruling was "an attempt to silence dissent and to make an example of those with the courage to offer an alternative to the policies of the Russian government."

In a statement, Tracy called the sentence "another terrible sign of the repression that has taken hold in Russia."

The British government immediately condemned the verdict and sentence, one of the harshest penalties to date against a Russian who has spoken out against the Kremlin's war against Ukraine, saying the case against the 41-year-old father of three was "politically motivated."

It added in a statement that the Russian ambassador to the United Kingdom had been summoned and that British officials "will make clear that the U.K. considers Mr. Kara-Murza's conviction to be contrary to Russia's international obligations on human rights, including the right to a fair trial."

The Russian Foreign Ministry issued a statement later on April 17 slamming Britain's response and calling it "direct interference in the internal affairs of Russia."

United Nations rights chief Volker Turk called on Russia to release Kara-Murza "without delay," while the European Union also condemned the sentence.

"Today's outrageously harsh court decision clearly demonstrates yet again the political misuse of the judiciary in order to pressure activists, human rights defenders, and any voices opposing Russia's illegitimate war of aggression against Ukraine," EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said in a statement.

The Washington-based nonprofit organization Freedom House also condemned the sentence against Kara-Murza, calling it a "deplorable act of cruelty to its already staggering ledger of human rights abuses."

Kara-Murza has dedicated his life to combating corruption and repression in Russia, Freedom House said, adding that now he has been imprisoned for the supposed "treason" of speaking out against President Vladimir Putin's "brutal and unprovoked war of conquest."

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov declined to comment on the case when asked by reporters in Moscow.

In August, Russian authorities added the charge of involvement in an "undesirable" foreign organization, and in October they added the treason charge for his public criticism of the Russian authorities in the international arena.

Kara-Murza ended up being sentenced to 18 years for the treason charge, seven years for the spreading of false information, and three years for participating in the actions of an "undersirable" organization. Some of the sentences will run concurrently.

Aleksei Navalny, another Kremlin critic who has been handed a lengthy prison sentence for what most analysts say are trumped-up charges in retaliation for speaking out against Putin and his policies, called the sentence "unlawful, shameless, and simply facsist."

The trial was delayed last month after his lawyer told the court his client's health had "significantly deteriorated." A certificate from the medical unit of Kara-Murza's detention facility stated he was being treated for polyneuropathy, which he says is a result of the poisonings.

In his final statement to court on April 10, Kara-Murza, who Amnesty International has designated a "prisoner of conscience," said the level of opaqueness about the charges against him surpassed the trials of Soviet dissidents in the 1960s and '70s, and the language used against him was reminiscent of the 1930s, when Soviet citizens were arrested on fabricated charges and put on show trials.

Russia adopted a law criminalizing spreading "false information" about its military shortly after it sent troops into Ukraine on February 24, 2022.

Kara-Murza is the latest in a string of opposition activists, reporters, and others who have been arrested and prosecuted under the legislation amid a growing Kremlin crackdown on civil society.

According to the human rights group OVD-Info, almost 20,000 Russians have been detained for anti-war protests since the Kremlin launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Several hundred people have had criminal cases opened against them for opposing the war in Ukraine, with some facing sentences of up to 15 years for offenses as slight as posting anti-war messages on social media. OVD-Info said in the next week alone, 53 "political criminal cases"are scheduled for the coming week.

"The criminalization of criticism of government actions is a manifestation of fear, not strength," U.S. Ambassador to Russia Lynne Tracy said on the steps of the court building. "Vladimir Kara-Murza and countless Russians believe and hope for a future in which fundamental freedoms are respected in Russia. And we share these hopes."

"Thirty years ago, Russia fought for the creation of democracy. Now this struggle has taken a sad turn," the Canadian ambassador to Russia, Alison Leclaire, said after the court session.

Kara-Murza was a key advocate for the U.S. Magnitsky Act, which sets out sanctions for human rights violators in Russia. He has also called for sanctions to be imposed on culpable Russian officials.

On March 3, the United States designated six people, including three judges, for sanctions due to their role in Kara-Murza's detention.

The judge who chaired the trial and who read the ruling on April 17, Sergei Podoprigorov, was one of the first sanctioned by the United States under the Magnitsky Act 10 years ago. The British government also has already sanctioned him for "previous involvement in human rights violations."

He was also the judge who approved the pretrial detention of the law's namesake, Sergei Magnitsky, a whistle-blowing Russian tax lawyer who died in a Moscow jail in November 2009, just seven days before the expiration of the one-year term during which he could be legally held without trial.

Magnitsky, who accused Russian law enforcement and tax officials of a massive tax fraud scheme, was tried posthumously and convicted on tax evasion charges.

The British government also has already sanctioned him for "previous involvement in human rights violations."

The late U.S. Senator John McCain was a proponent of Kara-Murza's efforts, and he served as a pallbearer at McCain's funeral in 2018.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/kremlin-critic-kara-murza- verdict-treason-trial-/32366209.html

Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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U.S. Warns Companies About Price-Cap Evasion On Russian Oil

By RFE/RL April 17, 2023

The U.S. Treasury Department has published a warning to U.S. companies about possible evasion of a price cap on exported Russian oil, pointing specifically to oil exported through the Eastern Siberia Pacific Ocean (ESPO) pipeline and ports in eastern Russia.

The department's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) said on April 17 it was aware of reports that ESPO and other crude-oil exports may be trading above the $60-per-barrel price cap imposed by Western countries.

OFAC issued an alert addressing possible price cap evasion, naming Kozmino as one of the ports where Russian oil may be trading above the cap and saying U.S. entities may unwittingly be providing services for those trades.

"These U.S. service providers may be unaware that they are providing covered services involving Russian oil purchased above the price cap, as the non-U.S. persons involved in the exports may have provided incomplete or false documentation or used other deceptive practices," OFAC said.

Under the price-cap scheme, companies based in G7 countries and in the European Union are allowed to provide financial services such as transportation, insurance, and financing for Russian oil and oil products only if they are sold above $60 per barrel.

The price cap was agreed in December as a way to keep Russian oil on the market while reducing oil revenue earned by Russia that could then be used to fund its war in Ukraine.

The U.S. Treasury Department in February published guidance on the implementation of the price cap policy for both Russian crude oil and Russian petroleum products.

The department referred to the guidance in its alert on April 17, stressing that U.S. persons providing covered services "are required to reject participating in an evasive transaction or a transaction that violates the price cap determinations, and to report such a transaction to OFAC."

OFAC said some tankers may be manipulating their automatic identification systems, a practice known as "spoofing," to disguise having called at the port of Kozmino, which is about 85 kilometers southeast of Vladivostok, or other ports on Russia's eastern coastline.

"For example, basic vessel-tracking data may show the tanker at one location, but more sophisticated reporting from maritime intelligence services may show that the vessel called at the port of Kozmino or another eastern port in the Russian Federation," OFAC said.

Spoofing can also be used to mask ship-to-ship transfers carried out to disguise the origin of Russian oil.

OFAC warned that U.S. persons providing services covered by the price cap should view manipulation of the identification system that disguises a tanker's port of call in Russia as evidence of possible evasion of the price cap.

With reporting by Reuters

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-us-oil-price-cap- warning/32367643.html

Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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U.S. Ambassador To Russia Says Detained Reporter 'In Good Health' After First Consular Visit

By RFE/RL April 17, 2023

The U.S. ambassador to Russia has visited American Evan Gershkovich in a prison in Moscow where the journalist is being held on charges of espionage.

Ambassador Lynne Tracy said on Twitter that she visited The Wall Street Journal reporter in the Lefortovo pretrial detention center on April 17.

"This is the first time we've had access to Evan since he was wrongfully detained over 2 weeks ago. He is in good health and remains strong. We reiterate our call for his immediate release," Tracy said.

The United States had been demanding consular access to Gershkovich, the first American journalist detained in Russia on espionage charges since the end of the Cold War.

White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said the United States hopes to see continued consular access to the reporter.

"It was good to get to see him today and again we want to make sure we can continue to do that," Kirby said.

Gershkovich is planning to appeal against his arrest and detention, Reuters reported, citing court documents.

Moscow's Lefortovo district court on April 18 will hear a complaint filed by Gershkovich against the decision to keep him in custody while the case is being investigated, according to a court document cited by Reuters.

Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) said on March 30 it had detained Gershkovich in the Urals city of Yekaterinburg and had opened an espionage case against him for collecting what it said were state secrets about the military-industrial complex.

The Wall Street Journal and the United States have denied he was involved in espionage.

The U.S. State Department on April 10 designated Gershkovich as "wrongfully detained" by Russia and called for his immediate release. U.S. President Joe Biden has also called on Russia to release him, along with international journalist organizations.

The Kremlin has said Gershkovich was carrying out espionage "under the cover" of journalism. Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has told the United States that Gershkovich was caught red-handed while trying to obtain secrets.

With reporting by Reuters

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-us-gershkovich- consular-visit/32367520.html

Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Kremlin: Turbulent Times Call for Russian Fleet's Full Combat Readiness

Sputnik News

20230417

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The full combat readiness of Russia's naval forces is needed due to turbulent times, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday, adding that there is a threat of regional conflicts.

"Our environment is very turbulent in many areas, fraught with conflict situations, regional conflicts. We are all well aware of the geography of these regional conflicts. And that is what it was about," Peskov told reporters.

Since April 14, Russia has been holding a surprise inspection of the Pacific Fleet. Earlier on Monday, Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu briefed President Vladimir Putin on the progress of a surprise inspection of the Russian Navy's Pacific Fleet, saying that the troops participating in the event were on full combat readiness.

The minister said that the forces and troops participating in the inspection had been put on "full combat readiness," adding that with the established restrictions, they began to carry out combat training tasks, control firing and tactical exercises.

According to Shoigu, the final stage of the surprise inspection will kick off on April 18, when warships will work out missile strikes with electronic launches.

For his part, President Putin asked the defense minister to carry out these surprise inspections in the Russian Navy's other fleets.

"The first stage was indeed held suddenly, at a very high level. I want to express my gratitude to everyone who organized this work. I ask you, by all means, to continue this work, and to also focus on the development and preparation of similar events in other fleets," the president added.

Putin further emphasized that the country has explicit priorities for the use of its armed forces, primarily, in Ukraine, where the Russian special military operation is ongoing.

"Separate elements of the fleet's forces, of course, can be used in conflicts in any direction. So I ask you to keep that in mind as well," he added.

Last week, Defense Minister Shoigu announced a surprise inspection of Russia's Pacific Fleet in order to check the ability of the country's armed forces to "repel the aggression of a probable enemy" from the sea.

A Sputnik

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US Ambassador Visits Journalist Held in Russian Jail

By VOA News April 17, 2023

Lynne Tracy, the U.S. ambassador to Russia, said she visited jailed Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich in Moscow Monday and that she found him in good spirits. Russia has accused Gershkovich of spying.

"This is the first time we've had consular access to Evan since his wrongful detention over two weeks ago," Tracy said in a short statement in Russian on Telegram. "He feels well and is holding up. We reiterate our call for Evan's immediate release."

Gershkovich was arrested last month in the Urals city of Yekaterinburg, 1,800 kilometers east of Moscow, while on a reporting assignment. Russia claims, without producing evidence, that he was caught "red-handed" while spying, collecting what it claimed were state secrets about a military industrial complex.

His newspaper and the U.S. government have rejected the charge of espionage, which, if he were to be convicted, carries a sentence of up to 20 years in prison.

Two weeks ago, his parents, Ella Milman and Mikhail Gershkovich, who fled the Soviet Union in 1979 and live in the eastern U.S. city of Philadelphia, received a two-page, hand-written note from him in Russian, the language the family speaks at home.

"I want to say that I am not losing hope," Gershkovich said. "I read. I exercise. And I am trying to write."

He also teased his mother about her cooking. "Mom, you unfortunately, for better or worse, prepared me well for jail food," he said. "For breakfast they give us hot creamed wheat, oatmeal cereal or wheat gruel. I am remembering my childhood."

The parents said in a video interview with the Journal that they remain optimistic for their son's release.

"It's one of the American qualities that we absorbed, you know, be optimistic, believe in a happy ending," Milman said. "But I am not stupid. I understand what's involved."

Milman said her son "felt like it was his duty to report" in Russia, even after most Western journalists left the country when President Vladimir Putin ordered the invasion of Ukraine last year. "He loves Russian people," she said of her son.

U.S. President Joe Biden has called the journalist's detention "totally illegal" and told the family he was working for Gershkovich's release. The United States has officially declared that Gershkovich has been "wrongfully detained" and that he is being held as a hostage.

The U.S. has repeatedly told its citizens to leave Russia due to risk of arbitrary arrest.

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U.S. warship sails through Taiwan Strait

ROC Central News Agency

04/17/2023 12:56 PM

Taipei, April 17 (CNA) The U.S. Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Milius sailed through the Taiwan Strait on Sunday with the U.S. Navy calling the voyage a "routine" transit.

The U.S. warship's transit was made "through waters where high-seas freedoms of navigation and overflight apply in accordance with international law," the U.S. Navy's 7th Fleet said in a statement released on Sunday.

"The ship transited through a corridor in the Strait that is beyond the territorial sea of any coastal State," it said. "Milius' transit through the Taiwan Strait demonstrates the United States' commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific."

Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense later confirmed the transit, saying in a statement that the military had a full grasp of the situation as the U.S. warship sailed through the strait northward, and did not spot any irregularities.

The U.S. Navy sails warships through the strait around once a month, and also regularly conducts similar freedom of navigation missions in the disputed South China Sea.

The Milius' transit on Sunday came one week after China carried out three days of military exercises around Taiwan from April 8-10, during which dozens of Chinese warplanes and warships crossed the Taiwan Strait median line and flew into the southwestern part of Taiwan's air defense identification zone (ADIZ).

The drills were one of several measures taken by Beijing in response to President Tsai Ing-wen's (ee) meeting with U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy in California on April 5 (U.S. time) before she concluded her 10-day overseas trip that included visits to Taiwan's Central American allies.

Taiwan's government insisted it has a right to conduct its own diplomatic affairs and that Tsai's meeting with McCarthy was important to strengthen the two sides' relationship. Taipei and some U.S. politicians want high-level meetings between the two sides to be regular and normalized.

Beijing, however, regarded mainland China and Taiwan as part of one country to be reunified one day, and strongly objected to the Tsai-McCarthy meeting, which it saw as emboldening Taiwanese pro-independence forces and an attempt to change the status quo.

Tsai's meeting with McCarthy was the third between a Taiwanese leader and a sitting House speaker and the first on U.S. soil since the Republic of China (Taiwan) and Washington ended official diplomatic relations in 1979.

(By Elizabeth Hsu)

Enditem/cs





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April 17, 2023

By Jim Garamone , DOD News

U.S., U.K. Defense Leaders Discuss Ukraine, AUKUS in Pentagon Meeting

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III welcomed Ben Wallace, the United Kingdom's Secretary of State for Defense, to the Pentagon today to discuss the short-term and long-term implications of the U.S.-U.K. alliance.

The United States has no closer ally than the United Kingdom, Austin said at the start of the meeting, and it is seemingly impossible for the two nations to work even more closely together. Yet Austin sees the Australia, United Kingdom, United States trilateral security pact as a long-term way forward and the best way to strengthen ties among the nations.

"It is an historic opportunity that shows how strong we can become when we work together," the secretary said. "It shows our deep commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. And it's a testament to our shared values, and to the long-term investments that we're making in our forces. I'm confident that AUKUS will break down barriers and usher in a new era of U.S.-U.K. defense cooperation."

But the two nations also must deal with the unprovoked invasion of Ukraine and what that threat means globally and for Europe. "The Kremlin has chosen a path of aggression and atrocity for the Ukrainian people and Ukraine's military [has] responded with incredible courage," Austin said. "And I'm going to keep on saying it: We will support Ukraine in this fight for as long as it takes."

Austin thanked Wallace for the United Kingdom's leadership role in supplying Ukraine and training Ukrainian troops to defend their country. "The UK is working with allies and partners to encourage donations and facilitate the delivery of security assistance to Ukraine," he said.

The United States and United Kingdom are also leaders in the NATO alliance. The secretary said this is a historic time for NATO. "Finland recently became the 31st member of NATO. And we look forward to Sweden becoming the 32nd," he added.

Austin leaves tomorrow for Stockholm to express his support for that move.

Wallace seconded Austin's strong support for Sweden's NATO membership and thanked the secretary for America's leadership. He noted he is entering his fourth year in his office. "The world, sadly, has not got less anxious and less insecure," Wallace said. "In fact, with the invasion of Ukraine, we've seen a more anxious world and a more unstable world. Without U.S. leadership, we would be in a worse place, whether that is in the Pacific, whether that is in Ukraine, whether that is in European defense, or indeed worrying so the development in the Middle East around Iran."

American aid to Ukraine has been critical to giving the Ukrainian military the tools and training it needs to defend "the freedoms that we all fight for and believe in," he said.

Wallace agreed that the AUKUS partnership is a sign of the long-term partnership and friendship between the two nations. He said neither man will be in office when the first AUKUS submarine rolls off the production line in the late 2030s. Still, it "shows that is a long-term commitment" to share these secrets and capabilities among the three nations.

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UK May Deploy Warship to Indo-Pacific on Permanent Basis

Sputnik News

20230417

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The UK government is in talks to place a warship to the Indo-Pacific region for a permanent deployment, British newspaper reported on Monday citing a government source.

"The future is in Asia. We've got to have a presence in the Pacific to prevent China doing something ridiculous like invading Taiwan," the source was quoted as saying.

The UK plans to deploy at least one Type-31 frigate, which will become a tipping point after five decades of UK military power's decline east of Suez, the newspaper added.

Earlier, Japan has welcomed NATO's increasing involvement in Indo-Pacific affairs, although Japanese leaders and prime ministers have not participated in NATO summits and ministerial meetings until last year. In April 2023, the Japanese foreign minister attended a NATO ministerial meeting and the country set up its permanent diplomatic mission to the bloc.

A Sputnik

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April 17, 2023

Release

Readout of Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III's Call With Ukrainian Minister of Defence Oleksii Reznikov

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III spoke with Ukrainian Minister of Defence Oleksii Reznikov to discuss priorities ahead of this week's Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG) meeting at Ramstein Air Base, Germany. This meeting will mark one year since Secretary Austin first convened the UDCG at Ramstein to coordinate security assistance, which has now brought together some fifty nations in support of Ukraine.

The two leaders pledged to remain in close contact.

https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3365295/

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April 17, 2023

By C. Todd Lopez , DOD News

Partnered Commitment to Ukraine Unlikely to be Deterred by Recent Intel Leaks

This Friday, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III will again host a meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group at Ramstein Air Base, Germany. The meeting will come in the latter half of a four-day trip in Europe, which will also include Sweden.

This is the eleventh meeting of the UDCG, and the first meeting of the group since the American public and international community became aware there'd been a leak of U.S. classified military information that, in part, involved operations in Ukraine.

A U.S. senior defense official said today it's unlikely that public knowledge of the contents of those leaked classified documents will hamper the ongoing efforts of the UDCG to support Ukraine as it fights to maintain its sovereignty in the face of Russia's illegal invasion last year.

"What we have heard from allies and partners is that ... they're determined a and we welcome this a not to allow any kind of negative information or spinning of negative information to undermine our unity and our focus and strength of purpose," the official said.

As in past meetings of the UDCG, the official said discussions are likely to revolve around providing continued support to Ukraine both for now and for its future defense, while at the same time ensuring that nations involved in providing that support can backfill whatever they've sent to Ukraine so they can maintain their own defense.

"Countries really are also doing both at the same time," the official said. "I expect it to be a very practical [discussion] based on a common understanding of the importance of unity and unity of purpose."

The first meeting of the UDCG was in April 2022. Since then, as many as 50 nations have participated in the meetings to work together to provide security assistance to Ukraine.

Prior to Thursday's UDCG meeting, Austin will visit with Swedish leaders to, in part, express America's support for Swedish accession into NATO, the official said. Austin will also participate in meetings to discuss the bilateral defense relationship between the U.S. and Sweden.

"It's also going to be an opportunity for the secretary and for the delegation to view some of Sweden's extraordinary advanced military capabilities, which we regularly exercise in maritime and air domains with Sweden, bilaterally and multilaterally, and which, once Sweden is a member of NATO, will significantly enhance NATO's military capability a particularly in the north and in the ... Baltic Sea region."

During his trip to Sweden, Austin is expected to meet with the Swedish prime minister, the Swedish minister of defense and the Swedish chief of defense.

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The President in The Hague: We cannot and will not allow war criminals to escape accountability

President of the Republic of Lithuania

April 17, 2023

As part of his working visit to the Netherlands, President Gitanas NausAda met in The Hague with the President of the International Criminal Court (ICC), Piotr HofmaAski, and the Vice-President of the European Union Agency for Criminal Justice Cooperation (Eurojust), Margarita A niutytA-DaugAlienA.

The meetings discussed the international investigation of war crimes in Ukraine, the prosecution of war criminals and the establishment of a special tribunal on aggression against Ukraine.

In his meeting with the President of the ICC, Gitanas NausAda stressed that the International Criminal Court must continue to play a central role in the prosecution of international crimes, however, following Russia's attack on Ukraine, the international community must seek additional means of delivering justice.

"The International Criminal Court is the key institution in the investigation of war crimes, genocide and crimes against humanity as well as aggression. We see many examples of such crimes in Ukraine, including brutal killings of prisoners of war and violence against civilians. Behind these crimes are those who took the decision to wage war, to set up filtration camps, and those who sanctioned the systematic murder and tortureanamely, the Russian civilian and military leadership. We cannot and will not allow them to escape accountability," the President underlined.

Gitanas NausAda welcomed the ICC's decision to issue arrest warrants against Vladimir Putin and Maria Lvova-Belova.

"This is an important step in defending international humanitarian principles and demonstrating that accountability for serious violations of international law is inevitable. However, the deportation of children from the occupied territories of Ukraine to Russia is only one of the many war crimes of the Kremlin regime, whose root cause is the crime of aggression," President Gitanas NausAda spoke.

The Head of State pointed out that Lithuania strongly supported the establishment of a special tribunal on aggression against Ukraine, as the ICC could only investigate crimes of aggression in two cases: if Russia and Ukraine were State Parties to the Rome Statute, or if there was a referral by the United Nations Security Council.

In his conversation with Vice-President of Eurojust Margarita A niutytA-DaugAlienA, the President thanked her for the active role of the Agency in coordinating international crime investigations and gathering evidence in Ukraine.

"Lithuania supports the decision to establish the International Center for the Prosecution of Crimes of Aggression, to whose establishment Eurojust has made a significant contribution. This is an important and timely step, as evidence of crimes of aggression must be collected without any delay," the President emphasized.

Gitanas NausAda stressed that the setting up of this center is also the first step towards the establishment of a special tribunal.

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Fresh Russian Strikes Cause Deaths, Destroy Churches, Hospitals, As Ukraine Grain Dispute Mounts

By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service April 17, 2023

Fighting continued unabated in the eastern Donetsk region as Russian forces struck cities in two southern Ukrainian regions, causing deaths among civilians and damaging infrastructure, while a dispute within the European Union regarding Ukraine's grain exports continued to escalate.

Russian forces launched 25 missile strikes from S-300 anti-aircraft missile systems and 42 air strikes on the cities of Zaporizhzhya and Komyshuvakha in the Zaporizhzhya region and the town of Snihurivka in the Mykolayiv region, the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine said in its daily report on April 17.

"There are dead and wounded among the civilian population, high-rise and private residential buildings have been damaged, and education institutions, hospitals, churches, and other civilian infrastructure objectives have been destroyed and damaged," the military said, without specifying the number of casualties.

Zaporizhzhya administration chief Yuriy Malashko said on Telegram that at least one civilian was wounded in the city as a result of Russian shelling.

Ukrainian defenders repelled more than 50 enemy attacks as Bakhmut and Maryinka remain the epicenter of hostilities, the General Staff said in its evening report on April 17. The report said Russian troops continue to concentrate their offensive actions on the cities and towns of Lyman, Bakhmut, Avdiyivka, and Maryinka in Donetsk region.

Separately, Russia's Defense Ministry said fighters from the Wagner mercenary group have captured two more city blocks in Bakhmut. The claim could not be independently verified.

Ukraine has indicated it will soon launch a counteroffensive to take back more territory. Ukrainian officials have said they are buying time ahead of the expected counteroffensive while depleting Russian forces and supplies in the battles in and around Bakhmut.

Russia's Defense Ministry claims seven British mercenaries were killed in fighting in Ukraine. The ministry gave no further details, nor did it give details on the location of the battle. Neither British Defense Ministry officials or the British government have commented on the statement by Russia.

Meanwhile, Slovakia on April 17 followed in the steps of Hungary and Poland, announcing that it will temporarily halt imports of grain and other selected food products from Ukraine.

Poland and Hungary announced the bans on April 15, saying they were meant to protect their local agricultural sectors after farmers complained that their incomes were cut by the duty-free movement of large quantities of Ukrainian produce.

Ukraine and Poland on April 17 began talks aimed at reaching an agreement on the grain export matter, which Polish leaders have said would not impact its political and military support for Ukraine. Poland has been one of Ukraine's staunchest allies since Russia invaded in February last year.

On April 17, a senior EU official said envoys from the bloc's member countries will meet in Brussels this week to discuss the bans.

Hungary's Farm Minister Istvan Nagy on April 17 reinforced Budapest's position, saying it will use "all possible means" to protect its farmers from market disruptions caused by the Ukrainian grain imports and called for a joint EU response, which he said was "unavoidable."

For its part, Ukraine said it would aim to secure the reopening of food and grain transit via Poland as a "first step" at talks in Warsaw.

Agriculture Minister Mykola Solsky also said there would be additional talks this week in Romania on April 19 and in Slovakia on April 20. The minister's comments were published on the Telegram messaging app by the Agriculture Ministry.

Separately, Slovakia's Defense Ministry announced on April 17 that it had handed over all 13 MiG-29 fighters promised to Ukraine.

The first four aircraft were handed over last month, with the remaining nine being also "successfully handed over to the Ukrainian forces," the ministry's press service said in a statement.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said in his nightly address on April 17 that Ukraine is preparing for a meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group later this week.

Zelenskiy has held "preparatory talks" ahead of the April 21 meeting of representatives of dozens of countries that have been providing arms to Kyiv.

He said Ukraine expects "solid decisions to be taken that will be commensurate with the prospects on the battlefield" during the upcoming meeting of Ukraine's supporters in the so-called Ramstein format.

One of the main topics at the meeting is likely to be the supply of ammunition, which Zelenskiy discussed with Ukrainian military commanders on April 17. Not only the supply was discussed "but also everything related to production -- both by the state and by private companies."

Oleksiy Danilov, head of Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council, meanwhile, said Ukraine will launch the counteroffensive when it's ready, adding that it's only a matter of time before the country achieves the necessary level of military preparedness to do so.

Danilov told the AP in an interview that Ukraine's allies are helping Kyiv achieve the level of technical equipment necessary to launch the attack by delivering heavy armored vehicles and ammunition.

But he also expressed frustration that allied countries sometimes "promise one thing and do a completely different one." He didn't elaborate.

With reporting by Reuters, AP, and dpa

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-russia-strikes-civilians- dead-infrastructure-damaged/32366771.html

Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's address to the readers of the monograph History of Ukraine

17 April 2023 13:20

720-17-04-2023

Dear readers,

Allow me to introduce the monograph History of Ukraine, prepared by a team of Russian historians and publicists. The authors touch upon an issue that seems quite topical in present-day conditions, and they assess the stages in the historical development of the area now comprising modern Ukraine.

It is no secret that years of efforts by Ukrainian radical nationalists and their Western handlers have created a multitude of historical myths and falsifications, and they continue to create them today. False interpretations of history serve to form a mistaken public perception that Ukraine developed separately from Russia. Their goal is obvious: they want to pit two fraternal nations against each other by denying the unity of the Ukrainians and the Russians, to demonise modern Russia as the legal successor to the Soviet Union. This policy leads to only one sad consequence, the renunciation of our common past and traditions of neighbourliness. Many Russians, born and raised in Ukraine, even have to renounce their native language.

This is why we need to preserve and, if necessary, restore historical truth. It is intended that this monograph will make a contribution to these noble efforts. It is based on a comprehensive and serious analysis of the origins of modern Ukraine. The research paper contributes to a better understanding of the sources of many current developments and processes.

I am confident that this publication will generate great interest among professional historians and a wide range of readers.

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All Slovak MiG-29 Fulcrum fighter jets are in Ukraine already

Ministry of Defence of The Slovak Republic

17.04.2023

Slovakia has already handed all of the announced 13 MiG-29 Fulcrum fighter jets over to Ukraine. With the first batch of four MiG-29s flown to Ukraine by Ukrainian Air Force pilots in March 2023, the remaining nine have by now been successfully transferred to the Ukrainian forces.

In a statement, Defence Minister Jaroslav Nad said: "The transfer of equipment was conducted by road, while maintaining the highest levels of security. Once again, our thanks go out to all those involved in the transfer, because in cases like this, it is always really an important and challenging logistics operation."

Minister Nad noted that the MiG-29 Fulcrums represent Slovakia's huge support for Ukraine in its defence against Russia's military aggression and in its protection of human lives. "Unlike for our neighbour, for us, the aircraft were made unusable. It was the right thing to do," Defence Minister Jaroslav Nad emphasised.

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Slovakia to Suspend Imports of Grain, Other Selected Products From Ukraine

Sputnik News

20230417

BRATISLAVA (Sputnik) - Slovakia will temporarily suspend imports of grain and other selected products from Ukraine, Slovak Prime Minister Eduard Heger said on Monday.

"Slovakia will temporarily suspend imports of grain and other certain products from Ukraine. A meeting of the working group will be held today on this topic," Heger wrote on social media.

On Sunday, former Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico called on the country's authorities to ban the import of grain from Ukraine immediately, saying that the farmers of Slovakia "have been crying for help for a long time."

The EU's Eastern European members are beginning to question support for the Kiev regime due to the enormous glut of duty-free Ukrainian grain on the market that is sparking anger among rural communities. Farmers in Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Hungary and Bulgaria cannot compete with the influx of low-cost Ukrainian grain and emphasize that such practices undermine the rules of fair trade.

Poland and Hungary have already halted imports of Ukrainian grain to protect their farmers, while Bulgaria is eyeing a similar policy.

A Sputnik

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President holds meeting of Staff of Supreme Commander-in-Chief

President of Ukraine

17 April 2023 - 14:04

On Monday, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held another meeting of the Staff of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief.

The participants heard information about the operational situation at the front. The commanders of the Khortytsia, Tavria, Odesa, and Pivnich task forces reported on the course of hostilities in the areas of the front within the limits of their responsibility.

Intelligence briefed on probable actions of the enemy in the near future.

Members of the Staff considered the issue of providing the defense forces of Ukraine with weapons and ammunition, in particular of own production. The participants of the meeting analyzed the state of implementation of contracts with Ukrainian manufacturers and the prospects of increasing the own production of all types of missiles and ammunition.

In addition, the discussion of the issue of staffing and equipping the newly created brigades was continued.

Head of the Office of the President Andriy Yermak, Defense Intelligence Chief Kyrylo Budanov, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Valeriy Zaluzhny, Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council Oleksiy Danilov, and commanders of the task forces attended the meeting. The meeting of the Staff was also attended by members of the government, heads of security and law enforcement agencies.

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Latest in Ukraine: EU Rejects Bans on Ukraine Grain

By VOA News April 17, 2023

New developments:

U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland meets with the Ukrainian prosecutor general as they discuss efforts to punish those responsible for committing war crimes during Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Iraq offers to mediate between Ukraine and Russia to try and find an end to the war, but Ukraine's top diplomat rejects the offer.

An outspoken Kremlin critic is sentenced to 25 years in prison for denouncing Russia's war on Ukraine. Vladimir Kara-Murza regards the harsh sentence as recognition of his work.

European Union ambassadors in Brussels discussed on Monday a decision by some member states to temporarily ban imports of grain and other items from Ukraine.

Slovakia on Monday joined Poland and Hungary in announcing a ban on some food imports from Ukraine, with other central and eastern European countries saying they may follow suit.

The three countries argue a glut of low-priced agricultural imports is hurting their local farmers. Poland and Hungary on Saturday said their bans will remain in effect through June 30.

Spokespersons for the EU's executive arm said Monday a solution must be found that respects the EU legal framework, The Associated Press reported.

Chief EU commission spokesperson Eric Mamer was cited as saying Poland and other countries "have been doing their utmost" to help Ukraine. He added, "so this is not about sanctioning. This is about finding solutions based on EU law in the interests at the same time of the Ukrainians and of the EU."

Ukraine and Poland began talks Monday in Warsaw aimed at reaching an agreement on the grain issue.

"Ukraine needs help, but the costs of this help should be spread over all European countries, not just the frontline countries, especially Poland," Polish agriculture minister Robert Telus said after the talks began.

The issue of the imported food has created problems for Poland's ruling nationalist Law and Justice party. Poland holds elections later this year and counts on rural areas for a large amount of support.

The discussions among EU officials will continue Tuesday as Kyiv tries to renegotiate food and grain transit via Poland.

The bans also come as Russia warns it may not extend a Black Sea grain deal set to expire May 18, stranding millions of tons of grain inside Ukraine. Ukraine is a major agricultural producer that relies on food sales for much of its gross domestic product.

Lavrov in Brazil

Separately, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said Monday that Moscow wants a quick end to the conflict in Ukraine.

At a news conference with Brazilian counterpart Mauro Vieira in Brasilia, Lavrov thanked his counterpart for "understanding of the genesis of the situation in Ukraine." He added that Russia had "an interest" in the conflict ending as soon as possible.

Russia has reiterated that any peace negotiation in Ukraine must acknowledge the "realities" of Russia's unilateral annexation of four Ukrainian provinces.

Russia says it was forced to intervene in Ukraine to defend Russian speakers from persecution and prevent the West from using Ukraine as a springboard to threaten Russia's security.

Kyiv and the West say these are baseless pretexts for a war of conquest where war crimes have been committed.

The White House sharply criticized Brazil for meeting with Lavrov in person, while only speaking to Ukrainian officials by phone.

National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said, "Brazil is parroting Russian and Chinese propaganda" on Ukraine without looking at the facts.

Brazil's foreign minister, Mauro Vieira, pushed back on the criticism, saying of Kirby, "I don't know how or why he reached that conclusion but I do not agree at all."

Separately, U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland met with Ukrainian Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin at the Department of Justice in Washington to discuss joint efforts to punish war criminals in Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

G-7 Russian sanctions

Foreign ministers from the Group of Seven leading industrialized nations Monday reinforced their commitment to strongly supporting Ukraine, while also "intensifying, fully coordinating and enforcing sanctions against Russia."

At a meeting in Japan, the G-7 ministers "underscored that Russia must withdraw all forces and equipment from Ukraine immediately and unconditionally," according to a statement issued by Japan's foreign ministry.

Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi said at a meeting focused on Russia's war in Ukraine that it is important to maintain unity in enforcing sanctions against Russia.

Following Russian President Vladimir Putin's announcement last month that Moscow would deploy tactical nuclear weapons to Belarus, the G-7 ministers condemned the move Monday, reaffirming that "Russia's irresponsible nuclear rhetoric is unacceptable," the statement said.

Russia was once part of what was then the G-8 but was expelled after it annexed Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula in 2014.

Land mine threats

Britain's Defense Ministry on Monday highlighted the mounting number of civilian land mine-related deaths in Ukraine.

The British ministry said the problem is worst in areas that Russian troops previously occupied, including Kherson and Kharkiv, and that the risk increases with the arrival of springtime agricultural work.

Latest Defence Intelligence update on the situation in Ukraine - 17 April 2023.Find out more about Defence Intelligence's use of language: https://t.co/4mwUj4lkMJYY #StandWithUkraine YY pic.twitter.com/WrzCRcYzAJ

a Ministry of Defence YY (@DefenceHQ) April 17, 2023

"Over 750 mine-related casualties among civilians have been reported since the start of the invasion a one in eight has involved a child. It will likely take at least a decade to clear Ukraine of mines," the ministry said in its latest daily assessment.

Meanwhile, Russia sentenced a prominent opposition activist to 25 years in prison Monday on charges that included treason after he criticized Russia's war in Ukraine.

Vladimir Kara-Murza's sentencing is the latest in a crackdown against the opposition that has taken place in Russia since Putin launched the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Kara-Murza's sentence was the harshest handed down to a Kremlin critic since Putin came to power in 1999.

Some material in this report came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters.

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South African Holocaust Center Says Russia is on 'Road to Genocide' in Ukraine

By Vicky Stark April 17, 2023

In welcoming Professor Olexiy Haran, who is part of a three-member Ukrainian delegation seeking support for the fight against Russia, the Holocaust Center's Director Richard Freedman said the suffering in Ukraine should not be ignored.

Freedman said many observers see an "element of genocidal intent" in Russia's actions - something that several governments and human rights groups have also expressed.

"And we here in South Africa, we need to be cognizant of this to know what's going on and to try and prevail with our government through one way or another to see it for what it is and call it for what it is," Freedman said.

A press release issued by the delegation says the Prosecutor General of Ukraine has recorded over 70,000 war crimes there since Russia's invasion in February last year. Russia has denied targeting Ukrainian civilians in the conflict.

South Africa has remained steadfast in its neutrality and has abstained from several United Nations resolutions condemning Russia's invasion.

A delegation from the ruling African National Congress party was also recently hosted by the ruling United Russia party in Moscow.

Professor Haran said it is clear there is genocidal ideology behind Russian President Vladimir Putin's war on Ukraine. He noted that a Russian state-run news agency published an article speaking about the de-Ukrainianization of Ukraine. He said the mass graves, deaths and deportation of thousands of children to Russia was evidence of Putin's desire to have a "great Russian people" with no Ukrainians.

In appealing to the South African government to change its stance, Haran said he had a chance to look at the exhibition at the Holocaust Center in Cape Town, and it reminded him that many countries were still doing business with Hitler during the Second World War.

"We're asking for support, we're asking for support in any form. The former colonial power is trying to come back. Why don't you support us? Why do you abstain? You, the country that suffered from colonialism for centuries. So, it means that Russian propaganda is very strong, Russian ties are quite strong. You know Russia is using disinformation, corruption, all these things," said Haran.

He said Ukrainians often hear some African politicians saying it's not their war a but Haran urged Africans to look at the soaring energy prices, fertilizer prices and food shortages.

He also reminded South Africa that its trade with Russia isn't the largest.

"At least try to diversify, try not to depend on Russian gas as it was in Europe, or Russian nuclear facilities or whatever."

When asked to comment on the call for South Africa to change its neutral stance toward the war, President Cyril Ramaphosa's spokesman Vincent Magwenya referred to a recent media briefing broadcast on the government's YouTube page.

"It's an issue of major concern to the AU and to the whole continent because of the impact of this conflict. And so when South Africa engages on this conflict, we're not engaging from a position of being apologetic for the stance that we've taken. We engage so as to encourage parties to find a peaceful resolution to encourage all other interested parties to continue the dialogue with both countries involved," said Magwenya.

Magwenya added that South Africa is seeking legal advice about hosting Putin at a summit in August with its partners in the BRICS bloc a Brazil, Russia, India and China.

The International Criminal Court recently issued an arrest warrant for Putin, for ordering the illegal deportation of children from Ukraine to Russia.

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Chicago, April 17, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global Glycolic Acid Market size is estimated at USD 327 million in 2022 and is projected to reach USD 450 million by 2027, at a CAGR of 6.6%, between 2022 and 2027, as per the recent study by MarketsandMarkets. Glycolic acid is a type of alpha hydroxyl acid (AHA) derived from natural or synthetic routes. Glycolic acid is derived naturally from sugarcane and other sources, such as beets, pineapple, milk, apples, and all kinds of citrus fruits. Synthetically, it is prepared from formaldehyde, chloroacetic acid, and oxalic acid. Glycolic acid is mainly used in the cosmetics industry for skincare products. It is a major constituent of various chemical peels. It is widely used in differing purities for chemical peels, anti-aging creams, hair care, skincare creams, and other applications.

Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=1090

Browse In-Depth TOC On Glycolic Acid Market

192 - Market Data Tables

38 - Figures

170 - Pages

List of Key Players in Glycolic Acid Market:

The Chemours Company (US) China Petrochemical Corporation (China) CABB Group GmbH (Germany) Zhonglan Industry Co., Ltd. (China) Water Chemical Co., Ltd (China)

Drivers, Restraints, and Opportunities in Glycolic Acid Market:

Driver: Growing demand for glycolic acid in cosmetics industry Restraint: Glycolic acid-based cosmetic products cause skin problems Opportunity: Growing demand for biodegradable polymers to increase glycolic acid consumption Challenges: Stringent regulations regarding usage of glycolic acid

Key Findings of the Study:

Technical grade is the largest grade segment of the glycolic acid market. Personal Care & Dermatology is the largest application segment of the glycolic acid market. Asia Pacific is the largest market for glycolic acid market.

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On the basis of grade, the market is segmented into cosmetic grade and technical grade. The technical grade segment led the grade segment of the market in terms of both value and volume. They are used in anti-aging creams, industrial cleaners, and medical sutures.

On the basis of application, the market is segmented into personal care & dermatology, industrial, household, and others. The personal care & dermatology application segment led the market in terms of both value and volume. The huge demand for glycolic acid-based products in the treatment of acne, hyperpigmentation, and old age effects such as fine lines, age spots, and dullness is expected to drive the demand for glycolic acid in this application. There is increasing demand for glycolic acid as a keratolytic agent for treating dermatological diseases.

The Asia Pacific region is projected to be the largest market, in terms of value. Asia Pacific is also expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. The presence of major beauty & cosmetics market, along with rising industrialization and manufacturing activities, will drive the glycolic acid market in Asia Pacific. The glycolic acid market is also impacted by boiler cleaning application in the industrial sector. The escalating demand for glycolic acid can be largely attributed to the growing awareness of personal care and dermatology. The cosmetic industry in the Asia Pacific region is growing due to the rise in the number of working women, increased spending on cosmetic products, and growth of young population in the region. This industry is expected to contribute significantly to the growth of the glycolic acid market.

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NEWARK, Del, April 17, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The green electronics manufacturing market is expected to increase from US$ 17.36 billion in 2023 to US$ 177.01 billion by 2033. The market is expected to progress at a CAGR of 26.14% from 2023 to 2033.



Industrial Applications Are Likely to Make Substantial Usage of the Electronics Manufacturing Market

With the environmental revolution on the rise, electric motor controls are demanding more efficiency from industrial motors. Additionally, increased integration at the lowest possible cost is essential to promote new technology market penetration and improve safety and dependability. This increases the demand for electrical components utilized in digital signal controllers in smart motors for voltage control activities.

Additionally, Industry 4.0 guarantees significant improvements in manufacturing data automation efficiency and production. To some extent, growth is driven by parallel advancements in industrial IoT and artificial intelligence (AI). Although the electronics industry is still a long way from obtaining the same level of intelligence and automation as the automotive industry, the evolution toward Industry 4.0 is evidenced by recent trends in the electronics manufacturing services sector.

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The production of electronics for industrial automation is propelling this market forward. Industrial automation players want consistent access to all data generated on the system. This level of data collecting is hard due to the scale of many operational utility applications. For precise data collecting, regions such as Europe and North America are rapidly installing Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA).

Most SCADA systems are made up of single-board remote terminal units (RTUs), which are tiny, ruggedized devices that house all input/output (I/O) modules on a single printed circuit board. As a result, the growing use of SCADA in the utility industry pushes up demand for EMS.

Key Points from the Green Electronics Manufacturing Market

The market is expected to surpass US$ 177.01 billion by 2033.

The ever-increasing popularity of products such as smartphones, smart TVs, laptops, ovens, refrigerators, air conditioners, and tablets, as well as the growing need for faster and more efficient manufacturing processes, are driving market expansion.

Green electronics manufacturing market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 26.14% during the forecast period 2023 to 2033.

Asia Pacific dominated the green electronics manufacturing market.

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Who is Winning?

Apple Inc., Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., Dell Technologies Inc., Sony Corporation, LG Electronics Inc., HP Inc., Panasonic Corporation, Siemens AG, Toshiba Corporation, General Electric Company

Key Development in the Green Electronics Manufacturing Market

January 2022 - Samsung Electronics said that it intends to use 100% renewable energy in all of its plants, offices, and data centers in the United States, Europe, and China by 2025.

December 2021 - Apple Inc. announced a new carbon removal project, with the goal of eliminating more carbon from the atmosphere than the firm creates. A $200 million fund is established as part of the proposal to invest in forestry initiatives.

October 2021 - LG Electronics revealed its intention to attain carbon neutrality by 2030. The corporation intends to cut greenhouse gas emissions by half by 2020.

September 2021 - Dell Technologies launched its new sustainability plan, Progress Made Real: 2030, with goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 50%, using 100% recycled or renewable materials in its products by 2030, and advancing the circular economy.

March 2021 - Ouster, Inc. collaborated with Benchmark Electronics, Inc. to increase the production of its high-resolution digital LIDAR sensors for smart infrastructure, robotics, industrial automation, and automotive industries. To increase production, the company is leveraging Benchmark Electronics, Inc.'s capabilities in PCB assemblies, optics, microelectronics, and automated testing.



Know more about this market's geographical distribution along with a detailed analysis of the top regions@ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/green-electronics-manufacturing-market

Green Electronics Manufacturing Market Key Segment

By Technology :

for Lead-Free

for Halogen-Free

By Application :

for Electronics

for Portable electronics

for Industrial

for Automotive

By Region:

North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Latin America

Middle East & Africa



Table of Content

1. Executive Summary | Green Electronics Manufacturing Market

1.1. Global Market Outlook

1.2. Demand-side Trends

1.3. Supply-side Trends

1.4. Technology Roadmap Analysis

1.5. Analysis and Recommendations

2. Market Overview

2.1. Market Coverage / Taxonomy

2.2. Market Definition / Scope / Limitations

3. Market Background

3.1. Market Dynamics

3.2. Scenario Forecast

3.3. Opportunity Map Analysis

3.4. Investment Feasibility Matrix

3.5. PESTLE and Porters Analysis

3.6. Regulatory Landscape

4. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast, 2023 to 2033

4.1. Historical Market Size Value (US$ Million) Analysis, 2018 to 2022

4.2. Current and Future Market Size Value (US$ Million) Projections, 2023 to 2033

5. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Technology

5.1. Introduction / Key Findings

5.2. Historical Market Size Value (US$ Million) Analysis By Technology, 2018 to 2022

5.3. Current and Future Market Size Value (US$ Million) Analysis and Forecast By Technology, 2023 to 2033

5.4. Y-o-Y Growth Trend Analysis By Technology, 2018 to 2022

5.5. Absolute $ Opportunity Analysis By Technology, 2023 to 2033

6. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Application

6.1. Introduction / Key Findings

6.2. Historical Market Size Value (US$ Million) Analysis By Application, 2018 to 2022

6.3. Current and Future Market Size Value (US$ Million) Analysis and Forecast By Application, 2023 to 2033

TOC continued..!

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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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Dublin, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Dental Ultrasonic Scaler Market Size, Market Share, Application Analysis, Regional Outlook, Growth Trends, Key Players, Competitive Strategies and Forecasts, 2023 to 2031" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The growing adoption of scaling devices considerably contributes to the growth of the market. Furthermore, the advantages of ultrasonic devices over conventional scaling methods fuel the global market.



The global dental ultrasonic scaler market is segmented based on product type, end-user, and geography. Based on product type, the market is segmented into magnetostrictive and piezoelectric. Piezoelectric devices are expected to witness lucrative growth during the forecast period owing to the growing adoption due to numerous advantages provided over magnetostrictive. Some of the advantages include fewer requirements of water to control heat, and patient compliance among others.



Based on end-user, the market is segmented into hospitals and dental clinics. The hospital segment dominated the global market in 2017 and is anticipated to dominate the market during the forecast period due to the high number of dental procedures operated in hospitals compared to dental clinics.



In 2022, North America dominated the global dental scaler market due to the presence of evolved healthcare infrastructure and increased spending on healthcare. Asia Pacific provides an enormous opportunity to dental ultrasonic scaler vendors due to rising healthcare facilities and growing awareness of dental health.



Market Segmentation

Product

Magnetostrictive

Piezoelectric

End-User

Hospitals

Dental Clinics

Key questions answered in this report

What are the key micro and macro environmental factors that are impacting the growth of Dental Ultrasonic Scaler market?

What are the key investment pockets with respect to product segments and geographies currently and during the forecast period?

Estimated forecast and market projections up to 2031.

Which segment accounts for the fastest CAGR during the forecast period?

Which market segment holds a larger market share and why?

Are low and middle-income economies investing in the Dental Ultrasonic Scaler market?

Which is the largest regional market for Dental Ultrasonic Scaler market?

What are the market trends and dynamics in emerging markets such as Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa?

Which are the key trends driving Dental Ultrasonic Scaler market growth?

Who are the key competitors and what are their key strategies to enhance their market presence in the Dental Ultrasonic Scaler market worldwide?

Key Topics Covered:



1. Preface



2. Executive Summary



3. Dental Ultrasonic Scaler Market: Competitive Analysis



4. Dental Ultrasonic Scaler Market: Macro Analysis & Market Dynamics



5. Dental Ultrasonic Scaler Market: By Product, 2021-2031, USD (Million)



6. Dental Ultrasonic Scaler Market: By End-User, 2021-2031, USD (Million)



7. North America Dental Ultrasonic Scaler Market, 2021-2031, USD (Million)



8. UK and European Union Dental Ultrasonic Scaler Market, 2021-2031, USD (Million)



9. Asia Pacific Dental Ultrasonic Scaler Market, 2021-2031, USD (Million)



10. Latin America Dental Ultrasonic Scaler Market, 2021-2031, USD (Million)



11. Middle East and Africa Dental Ultrasonic Scaler Market, 2021-2031, USD (Million)



12. Company Profile



Companies Mentioned

EMS

COLTENE Group

Flight Dental Systems

Dentsply Sirona

APOZA

Being Foshan Medical Equipment Co Ltd

BonART LTD

Kerr Corporation

Brasseler USA

CARLO DE GIORGI S.R.L

Hu-Friedy Mfg. Co LLC.

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/jm1xie

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.
Schaumburg, IL, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) is pleased to announce its partnership with La Roche-Posay for the 2023 Preceptorship Program, providing an avenue for dermatology residents and early-career dermatologists to expand their skills while gaining practice management insights during a short visit to the practice of an established dermatologic surgeon mentor.

The generous support of La Roche-Posay will offset travel expenses for up to 50 preceptees this year, allowing them a unique, real-world experience with invaluable lessons on core skills, new procedures and practice management  something that cant be obtained through virtual courses and webinars, said ASDS President Vince Bertucci, MD, FRCPC. ASDS is committed to nurturing growth of the next generation of dermatologists, and a key component to this development is the opportunity to witness a more experienced dermatologic surgeon in action, gaining knowledge that is not taught in residency, such as witnessing patient discussions, interacting with other staff and observing the practice atmosphere.

Preceptees can choose from over 75 tenured dermatologists across the United States for a short visit, typically three to five days. During their visit, participants can:

Specify a targeted area(s) of training, including: Blepharoplasty Chemical peels Fillers and neuromodulators Lasers and/or energy-based devices Lifts: Face, brow, neck and S-lift Liposuction Reconstruction Skin cancer surgery Skin of color Vein procedures Other dermatologic surgery procedures

Ask procedural and/or practice-based questions.

Gain inspiration for how they may want to implement various devices, techniques, business processes and business styles.

See first-hand how to improve efficiency for patient visit flow.

Observe patient consultations and/or procedures.

Were honored to support ASDS in its proven mentorship process, offering a cost-effective program that enhances the training of up-and-coming board certified dermatologists and affording them the opportunity to grow both in knowledge and professional acumen through critical in-person visits with some of the best mentors in the specialty, said Vice President, Medical and Media Relations, La Roche-Posay, Tyler Steele.

ASDS has successfully offered preceptorships since 2002, giving participants one-on-one access to an expert in their targeted area and allowing them to increase clinical competence, explore unfamiliar areas of dermatologic surgery and solidify their career path, said Dr. Bertucci. 100% of the 2022 participants said they achieved their learning objective and would recommend the program to peers.

Applications will be accepted through Thursday, June 1. ASDS members can learn more at asds.net/Preceptorship-Program or direct any questions to education@asds.net .

# # #

About the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS)

The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) is the largest specialty organization exclusively representing dermatologic surgeons who have the unique training and experience required to treat the health, function and beauty of patients skin, hair and nails. ASDS members are pioneers in the field, often involved in clinical studies that substantiate popular procedures to revitalize and repair skin, enhance skin care devices and improve standard techniques. Dermatologic surgeons are also experts in skin cancer prevention, detection and treatment. As the incidence of skin cancer rises, dermatologic surgeons are committed to spreading sun safety awareness to minimize the life-threatening effects of this disease. For more information, visit asds.net.

For physician news, follow ASDS Members on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram and YouTube .

For patient education, follow ASDS Skin MD on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , YouTube and TikTok .

Locate a dermatologic surgeon in your area: asds.net/find

About La Roche-Posay

Recommended by 90,000 dermatologists worldwide, La Roche-Posay's mission is to offer life-changing dermatological skincare. La Roche-Posay offers a unique range of daily skincare developed for every skin type to address various skin concerns and complement prescription treatments. At the center of the brand is the exclusive selenium-rich La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water, a core ingredient in its skincare formulas known for its soothing and antioxidant properties that is sourced from its Thermal Center in France, the first Dermatology Center in Europe. The products are developed using a strict safety and formulation charter with a minimal number of ingredients and are formulated at optimal concentrations. Additionally, La Roche-Posay products undergo stringent clinical testing for efficacy and safety with over 750+ studies and 25 years of extensive research, even on sensitive skin.

For additional information about La Roche-Posay, visit laroche-posay.us and follow La Roche-Posay USA on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @LaRochePosayUSA

Attachment
New York, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Reportlinker.com announces the release of the report "Crop Insurance Market by Type by Application, by Distribution Channel  Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 20232030" - https://www.reportlinker.com/p06447668/?utm_source=GNW



However, lack of awareness related to crop insurance as well as reduced availability of arable land for agriculture are expected to hamper the market growth. On the contrary, several value-added services offered by crop insurers through various technologies while entering into strategic partnerships is expected to create ample opportunities for the key players operating in the crop insurance market during the coming decade.



Segment Overview



The global crop insurance industry is segmented on the basis of type, end user, and geography.

- Based on type, the market is bifurcated into crop yield insurance and crop revenue insurance.

 Based on application, the market is categorized into multi-peril crop insurance (MPCI), crop-hail insurance, livestock insurance, and others.

- Based on distribution channel, the market is classified into banks, insurance companies, brokers/agents, others.

- Region wise, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and RoW.



Regional Analysis



The North American market is projected to hold the dominant share by 2030

North America dominates the global crop insurance market and is expected to remain dominant in the market throughout the forecast period. Several countries in this region are highly susceptible to drought conditions which results in serious losses to a large number of agricultural products and has a negative impact on farm profitability. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 48.10% of the U.S. and 57.51% of the lower 48 states faced severe drought, where 369.2 million acres of crops were affected, as of November 2022.

Also, various government schemes and insurance programs are being offered by the government to ensure that producers get the best coverage to meet their needs, which further boosts market growth. For instance, in 2019, Mexicos new presidential administration has announced a number of new agricultural support programs that aim to increase rural incomes, improve food security, and create self-sufficiency in certain basic commodities. These programs focus primarily on supporting marginalized and small farmers, with special emphasis given to small producers in the southern and central states of Mexico.



Key Market Players



The emerging and efficient key players in the crop insurance market include the following:

 ADM

 Sompo Holdings Inc

 AXA XL

 Chubb Limited

 HDFC Ergo

 Munich Re Group

 Odyssey Group

 QBE Insurance Group Limited

 Tokio Marine Holdings, Inc

 Zurich Insurance Group



Recent Developments



October 2022

HDFC ERGO partnered with nurture.farm, one of Indias leading agritech startups, to further enhance and expand its insurance solutions. This association aims to get closer to the companys vision of making farmers resilient and delivering sustainable outcomes to the farming community.

October 2022

Munich Re acquired APINITY GmbH. Through this acquisition, Munich Re will be able to utilize APINITYs application programming interface (API) solutions in the form of software-as-a-service (SaaS) developed for the insurance industrys ecosystem. This will enable insurers to utilize third-party API services, in turn making it possible to transparently manage both third-party and in-house APIs.

August 2022

ADM launched a complimentary online course for producers called Shift. It covers core areas of farm management, including grain marketing, crop insurance, fertilizer and input costs, market fundamentals, and general financial planning strategies.

July 2022

AXA XL announced its switch to becoming Chinas first foreign-owned reinsurance subsidiary. The subsidiary, XL Insurance China, is to be named AXA XL Re China. According to a statement from AXA, this re-focus of the license was unprecedented for both AXA and for the China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission (CBIRC).

May 2022

Zurichs crop insurance business, Rural Community Insurance Services (RCIS) has added Climate FieldView to its list of precision agriculture providers available to RCIS customers. The integration of FieldView streamlines the process of recording and reporting a policyholders planting and production data.

February 2022

Chubb Ltd. purchased the renewal rights to Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty North Americas farm and agriculture business. This move was based on the substantial investment required for the business technology and product innovation to support long-term growth.

September 2021

Sompo International Holdings Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sompo Holdings acquired ARA 1857 S.p.A, an Italian crop insurance company. The acquisition of ARA is another strategic and welcome step in strengthening the companys presence with new products and capabilities in a key agriculture market.

September 2021

QBEs subsidiary, NAU Country Insurance Company, partnered with Agrimatics to help their customers with more efficiently report production for their crop insurance policies.

January 2021

Hudson Insurance Company, a division of Odyssey Group, announced a partnership with Farmers Edge to enhance the insurance cycle and establish a seamless digital connection with agencies and farmers.



KEY BENEFITS

 The crop insurance market report provides a quantitative analysis of the current market and estimations through 20232030 that assists in identifying the prevailing market opportunities to capitalize on.

 The study comprises a deep dive analysis of the crop insurance market trend including the current and future trends for depicting the prevalent investment pockets in the market.

 The information related to key drivers, restraints, and opportunities and their impact on the crop insurance market is provided in the report.

 The competitive analysis of the market players along with their market share in the crop insurance market is provided in the report.

 The SWOT analysis and Porters Five Forces model is elaborated in the study.

 Value chain analysis in the market study provides a clear picture of the stakeholders roles.

Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p06447668/?utm_source=GNW



About Reportlinker

ReportLinker is an award-winning market research solution. Reportlinker finds and organizes the latest industry data so you get all the market research you need - instantly, in one place.



__________________________
FALLS CHURCH, Va., April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Legum & Norman (LN), an Associa company and leading provider of community management services throughout Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, and the Washington, D.C., metro area, is proud to announce that its community partner  West Village of Shirlington  has been named 2022 Large Community Association of the Year by the District of Columbia Chapter of the Community Associations Institute (CAI). West Village of Shirlington is a 529-unit condominium community located in Arlington, Va., that has been managed by LN since 2007.

The Community Association of the Year Award recognizes those communities that best demonstrate excellence in all facets of association operations and governance by following CAIs best practices. The application focuses on the essentials of community association management and volunteer leadership. The statements are designed to determine how well your community incorporates best practices into its operations. LN team member and property manager Marque Salter, CMCA, AMS, PCAM, accepted the award on behalf of West Village of Shirlington.

We could not be happier for the board of directors and residents of the West Village of Shirlington condominium association, said Marc McCoy, Legum & Norman branch president. I congratulate Marque Salter and his management team for providing the superior leadership and guidance that was instrumental in being selected for this award and honor.

About Associa

With more than 225 branch offices across North America, Associa is building the future of community for nearly five million residents worldwide. Our 11,000+ team members lead the industry with unrivaled education, expertise, and trailblazing innovation. For more than 43 years, Associa has brought positive impact and meaningful value to communities. To learn more, visit www.associaonline.com.

Stay Connected

Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/associa

Subscribe to the Blog: https://hub.associaonline.com/

Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/associa

Join us on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/associa

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Robotic Assistance Devices, Inc. (RAD), Secures Order Totaling 13 Devices from Single Client at One Location

Detroit, Michigan, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions, Inc., (the Company) ( OTCPK:AITX ), a global leader in AI-driven security and productivity solutions along with its wholly owned subsidiary, Robotic Assistance Devices, Inc. (RAD), today announced that it has received an order for 11 ROSA security robots and 2 AVA access control solutions. The order was facilitated by one of RADs largest national authorized dealers.

The end-user client is a Fortune 250-ranked supplier of technology-driven solutions that empower the global energy industry. All 13 devices are to be deployed at one of the clients large warehousing centers, tasked with the detection and deterrence of trespassing, loitering and other security breaches. One of the two AVA units will replace a security guard at a secure entrance gate and the entire system has the equivalent value in human labor in the range of $400,000 to $600,000 annually. The remaining AVA unit will supplement the tasks of a security guard at another gated entrance to the facility.

The company announced that it expects the full 13-unit order to be delivered to the project site by the end of April 2023 and noted that it continued to make significant progress satisfying backlogged orders. Its expected that RAD will begin invoicing this deployment in May or June.

Our progress with this particular nationwide dealer has been substantial and barely unlocks the potential we have together, said Mark Folmer, CPP, FSyI, President of RAD. Were very grateful for the strong national representation and excited at nation-wide roll out plans that are nearing completion.

Enterprise organizations see immediate and substantial impact when they integrate RADs solutions into their facility and security plans, said Steve Reinharz, CEO of AITX and RAD. As the market for security guard labor continues to tighten, I expect well see acceleration of RAD solutions.

The Company expects to make additional announcements regarding its authorized dealers activities and further sales updates.

ROSA is a multiple award-winning, compact, self-contained, portable, security and communication solution that can be deployed in about 15 minutes. Like other RAD solutions, it only requires power as it includes all necessary communications hardware. ROSAs AI-driven security analytics include human, firearm, vehicle detection, license plate recognition, responsive digital signage and audio messaging, and complete integration with RADs software suite notification and autonomous response library. Two-way communication is optimized for cellular, including live video from ROSAs dual high-resolution, full-color, always-on cameras. RAD has published three Case Studies detailing how ROSA has helped eliminate instances of theft, trespassing and loitering at car rental locations and construction sites across the country.

AVA (Autonomous Verified Access) is a compact and stanchion mountable unit that provides an edge-to-edge 180 field of vision with advanced access control over gates and other controlled points of entry. AVA takes full advantage of the RAD Software Suite providing an ideal solution for gated communities, logistics and distribution centers, storage yards, parking structures and lots, corporate campuses; anywhere that increased security and visibility is needed at a fraction of the cost. At ISC West 2022, AVA was named a winner of the SIA New Products and Solutions Awards in the category of Access Control Software, Hardware, Devices and Peripherals.

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 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 cost 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 staff 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 .

###
RENO, Nev., April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ITS Logistics, today released the April forecast for the ITS Logistics US Port/Rail Ramp Freight Index. This month the index forecasts how the lack of empty container return availability is negatively impacting shipping for beneficial cargo owners (BCOs). In addition, the escalation of negotiations between the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) and Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) is negatively impacting the ports of Los Angeles (LA) and Long Beach.



There is a lack of empty return fluidity at US portsespecially in LA and Long Beach, said Paul Brashier, Vice President of Drayage and Intermodal for ITS Logistics. In most cases, dual transactions and off-hours/off-port termination facilities are the only options for truckers to return empties.

In 2020, when shippers were being warned of severe congestion at the LA and Long Beach Ports, the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) made recommendations to have truckers return empties to the terminal of origin to facilitate more dual moves. The Harbor Trucking Association (HTA) also championed the improved use of dual transactions to aid in alleviating the drayage and chassis shortages at the time.

Three years ago, not incorporating dual transactions meant that more drivers and chassis would be required to move the same amount of equipment, continued Brashier. Having only two options to remove empty containers is inefficient and will only increase trucking and detention costs to BCOs. Operations will also be strained at terminals and current reports show that MSC containers are becoming the most immediate concern.

According to Statista, the Switzerland-based shipping firm MSC has a 17.5% market share in container traffic. As the worlds largest ocean freight line, they recently confirmed with CNBC that freight orders would rebound once inventory levels declined in the US and Europe, to enable trade volumes to increase. While ocean freight bookings continue to be heavily dependent on manufacturing orders, shipper confidence has declined in part because of ILWU and PMA negotiations escalating. This has caused a continued loss of market share in the LA and Long Beach Ports, but MSC expects the ocean container market to grow in the second half of this year.

ILWU work slowdowns this month in LA and Long Beach are the opening salvo in what will be tense ILWU and PMA negotiations over the next couple of months, continued Brashier. This was the first major public display of how far both parties are apart and has moved the Pacific Region to a severe concern on the index. Ultimately the region is experiencing labor disruption on top of empty container termination restrictions.

Currently, ILWU does not have the leverage it once had, and volumes are significantly less due to economic factors and lost market share to the Gulf and East Coast ports. Shippers should avoid West Coast Ports for the next two months, and add additional dray capacity immediately across North America.

ITS Logistics offers a full suite of network transportation solutions across North America and omnichannel distribution and fulfillment services to 95% of the U.S. population within two days. These services include drayage and intermodal in 22 coastal ports and 30 rail ramps, a full suite of asset and asset-lite transportation solutions, omnichannel distribution and fulfillment, and outbound small parcel.

The ITS Logistics US Port/Rail Ramp Freight Index forecasts port container and dray operations for the Pacific, Atlantic, and Gulf regions. Ocean and domestic container rail ramp operations are also highlighted in the index for both the West Inland and East Inland regions. Visit here for a full comprehensive copy of the index with expected forecasts for the US port and rail ramps.

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

amber@leadcoverage.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/39903c64-0c8e-4779-afdf-48117481a7ca
St. Louis, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Global law firm Norton Rose Fulbright added six partners today to significantly strengthen its US offering in two of the firms key sectors: Financial Institutions (including Insurance) and Technology.

Joining from Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner (BCLP), the six-partner group is made up of:

a four-partner Transactional and Regulatory Insurance team consisting of Kevin Fischer and Bruce Baty, who served as the two co-leaders of BCLPs global Insurance practice, as well as Jodi Adolf and Michael Schwartz. Fischer and Schwartz are also highly regarded M&A and private equity lawyers with experience across a wide range of sectors. These arrivals will help to help further leverage Norton Rose Fulbrights global insurance practice in the US and also continue the firms notable expansion in the Midwest, with these four partners joining Norton Rose Fulbrights St. Louis office. Over the last year, Norton Rose Fulbright has more than doubled its Midwest presence by lawyer headcount, including the opening of a Chicago office, which now has 24 lawyers, and the onboarding of an 11-lawyer trial team in Minneapolis.

a two-partner Technology Transactions team based in Atlanta that includes Sean Christy and Chuck Hollis, who served as the two United States co-leaders of BCLPs global Technology & Commercial Transactions practice. These arrivals continue Norton Rose Fulbrights expansion of its Technology Transactions practice in the United States and add Chambers-rated outsourcing and technology depth to its already well-recognized global Technology Transactions capabilities.

Jeff Cody, Norton Rose Fulbrights US Managing Partner, said:

Adding these two leading teams demonstrates our commitment to our six key sectors, which include Financial Institutions and Technology. We are thrilled to bring in these talented lawyers with their knowledge, experience and client base in key practices, including insurance transactional and regulatory work, M&A and private equity, technology transactions and outsourcing. Growing these practices in the US has been a strategic priority for us, and we know that these new partners will be extremely well received by our clients globally. These partners further strengthen these practices after last years recruitment of a four-person insurance transactional and regulatory team in New York and a 12-person tech transactions group in Chicago.

James Bateson, Norton Rose Fulbrights Global Head of Financial Institutions based in London, said:

We are delighted to welcome these dynamic teams to our firm. Insurance Transactional and Technology are key areas for our Financial Institutions business and these new practices align with ours perfectly. These are important growth markets for us and I am very pleased that we have been able to expand our offering in this way.

Stacey Murphy, Norton Rose Fulbrights St. Louis office Partner-in-Charge, said:

I believe that bringing in these lawyers and their teams is a transformational move for our Firm and for our St. Louis office. Their proven track record of success and leadership in the insurance, M&A and technology space, coupled with their dedication to their clients, perfectly complements Norton Rose Fulbrights commitment to providing preeminent legal services to the worlds leading companies.

Fischer, who holds a Band 1 Chambers USA ranking along with Baty, said:

Norton Rose Fulbright has a longstanding reputation as one of the top firms in the world, and the firms key sectors align perfectly with our teams practices. The combination of the firms depth in key practice areas, global reach, focus on client service and team oriented culture will greatly benefit our clients and their businesses.

Hollis, who holds Chambers USA Nationwide and Chambers Global rankings along with Christy, said:

We are excited to bring our team to Norton Rose Fulbright and to be a part of the expansion of the Technology Transactions capabilities in the United States that began with the opening of Norton Rose Fulbrights Chicago office in 2022. We look forward to working together to deliver a cohesive and truly global offering across all Technology Transactions disciplines for our clients.

About the new partners

Kevin Fischer, who co-led BCLPs global transactional and regulatory insurance group, counsels insurance sector clients on a range of corporate, transactional and regulatory matters, including M&A transactions, reinsurance agreements, sales and purchases of blocks of business, renewal rights transactions and InsurTech investments and initiatives. He also advises private equity funds and public and privately held companies across a range of sectors, including financial services, real estate, hospitality, food, beverage and nutritional products, life sciences, industrials, energy and technology, on corporate and transactional matters, possessing significant experience with multinational and domestic mergers, acquisitions and divestitures, leveraged buyouts, corporate restructurings, joint ventures, public and private offerings of securities, commercial transactions and corporate governance matters. Licensed in Missouri and Oklahoma, Fischer earned his law degree from Vanderbilt University and his bachelors degree from the University of Texas at Austin.

Bruce Baty, who co-led BCLPs global transactional and regulatory insurance group with Fischer, advises insurance sector clients on corporate, reinsurance and regulatory matters, with a particular a focus on insurance M&A transactions, sales and purchases of blocks of business, reinsurance program design and implementation, reinsurance advice and regulatory compliance issues. His clients include leading property and casualty insurance companies, life, accident and health insurance companies, reinsurance companies, state insurance departments and other insurance sector participants. He has extensive experience navigating the complex insurance regulatory landscape, providing guidance on product development and approvals, licensing, financial and market conduct examinations, holding company act compliance and Own Risk and Solvency Assessment (ORSA) and Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) filings. Licensed in Missouri, Baty received both his law degree and bachelors degree from the University of Notre Dame.

Michael Schwartz focuses his practice on mergers and acquisitions, strategic alliances, venture capital investments and corporate restructurings. He regularly advises private equity funds, insurers, brokers, InsurTech innovators and other insurance sector clients on insurance M&A transactions and on a range of corporate and transactional matters. Schwartz also represents private equity funds, public and privately held companies and startup enterprises in M&A and other transactional matters across a range of sectors, including life sciences, industrials, retail, food and agribusiness and technology. He has counseled clients on cross-border transactions and restructurings in Europe, Asia, South America and the Middle East. Schwartz is licensed in both Missouri and Illinois. He received his law degree from American University and his bachelors degree from Tulane University.

Jodi Adolf focuses on insurance regulatory, InsurTech and insurance insolvency matters. She regularly advises leading life, accident and health as well as property and casualty insurers on a range of insurance regulatory and compliance issues. Adolf also has significant experience with the formation and licensing of insurance companies, third-party administrators, Knox Keene entities and Discount Medical Service Organization. She advises clients on insurance data security requirements, including compliance with New York Part 500 requirements and the Insurance Data Security Model laws, and works with clients in reporting cyber events to insurance departments as well as responding to governmental investigations and enforcement actions. Adolf is licensed in both Missouri and Kansas. She earned her law degree from Washburn University and her bachelors degree from Southern Connecticut State University.

Sean Christy, who co-led the Technology & Commercial Transactions practice at BCLP, advises on a broad range of traditional and digital outsourcing, digital transformation, ERP, XaaS/cloud, AI/ML, emerging- and broader technology and strategic commercial transactions across a number of sectors, including financial services, hospitality, consumer products, retail, manufacturing and healthcare. He advises on both direct engagements in these areas and in transactions that are incidental to acquisitions, carveouts, joint ventures and divestitures. He is known for providing guidance on strategic direction, analyzing client operations, supplier selection, scope/pricing/quality, counseling on governance and disputes (including software and subscription audit defense), and other key commercial issues his clients face throughout the lifecycle of their deals. Licensed in Georgia, Christy received his law degree from Georgia State University and his bachelors degree from Mercer University.

Chuck Hollis, who co-led the Technology & Commercial Transactions practice at BCLP with Christy, provides not only transactional legal advice, but also negotiation business strategy, vendor selection and consultative advice. His broad technology, sourcing and commercial transactions experience includes global support across a variety of industries and sectors for the purchase, sale and implementation of cloud services, cloud operations, broad scale implementation of ERP, SaaS, XaaS, AI/ML and other technology and software platforms, and also includes support for the more traditional outsourcing arrangements (ITO, BPO, ADM) and strategic commercial transactions. In many cases, these arrangements are associated with corporate transactions, carveouts, joint ventures and divestitures. His practice also includes support for software audits, disputes, realignment and workouts related to outsourcing and technology arrangements. Licensed in Georgia, the District of Columbia and South Carolina, Hollis received his law degree from the University of South Carolina and his bachelors degree from the Georgia Institute of Technology.

About Norton Rose Fulbright

Norton Rose Fulbright provides a full scope of legal services to the worlds preeminent corporations and financial institutions. The global law firm has more than 3,000 lawyers advising clients across more than 50 locations worldwide, including Houston, New York, London, Toronto, Mexico City, Hong Kong, Sydney and Johannesburg, covering the United States, Europe, Canada, Latin America, Asia, Australia, Africa and the Middle East. With its global business principles of quality, unity and integrity, Norton Rose Fulbright is recognized for its client service in key industries, including financial institutions; energy, infrastructure and resources; technology; transport; life sciences and healthcare; and consumer markets. For more information, visit nortonrosefulbright.com.

Attachment
MISSISSAUGA, Ontario, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- CanadianSME is delighted to announce the finalists for its prestigious 2022 CanadianSME Small Business Awards. In partnership with Google Canada, these awards recognize and celebrate the outstanding achievements of small and medium-sized enterprises nationwide.



The highly anticipated awards gala will be held on May 5th, 2023, at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, where hundreds of entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and government officials will gather to honour the accomplishments of Canada's small business community. In addition, the event will feature an insightful keynote presentation by Google Canada, focusing on the growth and development of small businesses.

We look forward to celebrating and recognizing the small businesses across the country that are making a huge impact in Canada. At the awards gala, Ill share how businesses can unlock their next phase of growth, and achieve their full potential, using one of the most profound technologies of today  AI.

Natasha Walji, Managing Director at Google Canada.

These awards have gained significant recognition since their inception. The awards selection process was highly competitive, with hundreds of nominations received from across Canada. An esteemed panel of industry experts and business leaders evaluated each submission based on specific criteria, such as innovation, growth, and impact on the community, to determine the deserving finalists.

Each year, the CanadianSME Small Business Awards serve as a showcase of the unwavering entrepreneurial spirit that prevails in our communities. The 2022 awards continue that tradition, with all of this years competitors demonstrating what it means to lead with creativity, resiliency and innovation, says Don Ludlow, Vice-President of Small Business, Partnerships & Strategy, RBC. At RBC, we know that our collective future is brighter when our nations small businesses are recognized and supported at every step of their journey  and were proud to join CanadianSME in celebrating their achievements in 2022 and beyond.

CanadianSME founder SK Uddin expressed excitement about the upcoming event: "We are thrilled to celebrate the exceptional achievements of Canada's small business community. The finalists have demonstrated tremendous resilience, innovation, and growth, contributing significantly to our economy. We look forward to recognizing and honouring their accomplishments at the gala and gaining valuable insights from Google Canada's keynote presentation."

Congratulations to all the nominees and award recipients, states Paul Gaspar, director for small business at UPS. Were proud to support the supply chain needs of our great Canadian entrepreneurs and equally honoured to celebrate your success of innovation, perseverance, and ingenuity.

At Xero, were passionate about technology that makes the lives of small businesses easier and their operations more efficient, said Faye Pang, Country Manager of Canada, Xero. Xero is honoured to sponsor the Technopreneur of the Year Award and were excited to see the innovative ways that small businesses are embracing technology to drive growth.

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Google Canada for their generous support as the title sponsor for the SME Awards 2022. Their partnership has been invaluable in making this event a great success.

The CanadianSME Small Business Magazine is grateful to all the sponsors for their generous and genuine support for the CanadianSME National Business Awards 2022 in celebration of business success in Canada.

About sponsors

The CanadianSME National Business Awards 2022 is an elbow room for corporations to sponsor small businesses. Thus, these awards are sponsored by various sponsors to recognize entrepreneurs in several different categories. The Small Business of the year award of up to 10 employees is sponsored by RBC, up to 50 employees, sponsored by UPS, up to 100 employees, sponsored by The Answer Company, Technopreneur of the Year Award sponsored by Xero, The Diversity and Inclusion Award sponsored by Deloitte, Tech Business of the Year Award sponsored by Samsung, Black Entrepreneur of the Year sponsored by HP Canada, Digital Business of the Year by Zoho and Excellence in Data Privacy, Cybersecurity by CyberCatch and Businesswoman of the Year sponsored by Nerds On Site.

Tickets for the CanadianSME Small Business Awards Gala are available at www.smeawards.ca. The event promises to be a memorable evening of networking, celebration, and inspiration as we acknowledge the vital role that small businesses play in driving Canada's economic prosperity.

The finalists for the awards are:

RBC Small Business of the Year for up to 10 employees (3 winners - Top 1, Top 2, Top 3)

Aceit Digital Inc

Propra Technologies Inc.

Market Collective

Kelowna Software Ltd.

49 Below Ice Cream Inc.

iPlume Writing Inc.

EYES Canada Child Care

Daydream

Flagship Roofing

CSN PHARMA INC

2H Media

eSupply Canada

Brave Education Inc.

Nerve Strategic

Anchor Marketing Inc.

Portage Sales

To Toronto Inc

Bisoulovely

UPS Small Business of the Year for up to 100 employees 2022 (3 winners - Top 1, Top 2, Top 3)

Cansulta

Falkirk Environmental Consultants Ltd.

William Wright Commercial

Essential Software Solutions

SourceKnowledge

QDoc Inc.

Tire Shack Brewing Co.

The Fertility Partners

Business Sherpa Group Inc.

EBSolution

BreezeMaxWeb Ltd (CA)

Today | XTM

Maximum People Performance Inc.

Webtmize

Sky High ERP

Oona Wellness Group

Synergy Performing Arts Academy

Moniker Partners

Xero Technopreneur of the Year 2022

Lance Miller and Matthew Alston, Co-Founders at Surex

Jesse Abrams, Co-Founder & CEO at Homewise

David Gauthier, Amanda Juneau, Laura Juneau, Felicia Santoro-Petti, Co-Founders, Sky High ERP

Ben Zimmer and Amy Leask, Co-Founders, Sidekick

Andrew Cross, Founder & CEO at GooseChase Adventures Inc.

Mark Bania, Co-Founder & CEO at Contractor Compliance Inc.

GoDaddy Young Entrepreneur of the Year 2022

Chris Reed, Co-Founder, Queer Based Media

Fendi Akom & Kwame Boateng, Co-Founders, Eu4icLaB

Tyler Anderson, CEO at Disruptive Edge

Arman Talebzadeh, Operations Director, Brand Vision Marketing Inc.

William Kryba, Founder, Clean Time

Kevin Cyr, Chief Executive Officer at Brave Education Inc.

Deloitte Diversity and Inclusion award 2022

Giatec Scientific Inc.

Orium

Desa Global Leadership

Webtmize

FinanceIT Canada Inc.

ecobee inc.

The Answer Company Small Business of the Year - 100+ employees 2022

POD Marketing inc.

DealMaker

SRx Health Solutions

Transformer Table

Croesus Finansoft Inc

Paramount Commerce

Samsung Tech Business of the Year 2022

Monsters Aliens Robots Zombies

Untether AI

CapIntel

PAVE

EZOFIS INC

Fill it Forward

Ebay E-Commerce Business of the Year 2022

SourceKnowledge

Seller Interactive

Pumpkin Kart

Hangar9

Miik

Willy Wacky Snacks

Futurpreneur Young Indigenous Entrepreneur of the Year 2022

Bobbie Racette, Founder & CEO of Virtual Gurus

Jordan Dooley, Founder of Vearthy

Mya Beaudry, Founder and CEO of Kokom Scrunchies Inc



Nerds On Site Business Woman of the Year 2022

Dr. Julie Wilson, Founder & Medical Director at Terra Nova Medical Centre

Debbie Fung, Co-Founder, Yoga Tree Studios

Laura McGee, Founder and CEO, Diversio

Jamie Savage, Founder and CEO - The Leadership Agency

Monica Gomez, Founder & CEO of The Concierge Club

Stefanie Antunes, Founder/Owner, Discover Birth

Customer Service Excellence 2022 (There will be three winners - Top 1, Top 2 and Top 3)

F12.net

KITS Eyecare Ltd

Point Alliance Inc.

Fibernetics Corporation

The Bridg Group of Companies

Cargo Cabbie

Shift Collab Inc.

Options Consulting Solutions

GTA Mold Removal

Peninsula Canada

FanSaves

CloudAdvisors

Buyapowa



Fastest Growing Company 2022

DecisioningIT

Untether AI

Tekki Web Solutions Inc

Peninsula Canada

Infostrux Solutions Inc.

GDA Capital Corporation

Excellence in Data Privacy & Security 2022

Vena Solutions

Railz

TalentNet Inc

FinanceIT Canada Inc.

Best Business Innovation 2022

SRx Health Solutions

MEA Health Corporation

PolicyMe

Zensurance

Infostrux Solutions Inc.

York Entrepreneurship Development Institute

Entrepreneur of the Year 2022

Lance Miller and Matt Alston, Co-Founders at Surex

Amad Abdullah, President, KW Signs

Vimal Siva, CEO & COO at OutReach Media

Laura McKay, Co-Founder & CEO at PolicyMe

Kristy Miller, Founder and CEO, The Scented Market

Emily Lyons, Founder & CEO, Femme Fatale Media Group Inc.

HP Black Entrepreneur of the Year 2022

Fendi Akom & Kwame Boateng, Co-Founders, Eu4icLaB

Ali Soumah, Founder and CEO, Ali Soumah Business Center Inc.

Ross Cadastre, Founder & CEO at Innovative Talent Solutions Inc.

Tunde Omotoye, Co-Founder/CEO at HumanSquad

Brittany Charlton, Founder & CEO of OhhFoods

Monice Morenzie, Founder and Executive Director at Midtown's Tiny Tots

Startup Business of the Year 2022

MintList Technologies Inc

BLP Lawyers Inc.

Treehouse

Ali Soumah Business Center Inc.

ORNA Inc.

Equite Association

Inspirational Leader of the Year 2022

Tara Bosch, Founder at SmartSweets

Will Cadell, Founder & CEO at Sparkgeo

Muraly Srinarayanathas, Executive Chairman, 369 Global Inc.

Antoinette King, Founder and Managing Partner, Options Consulting Solutions

Bryan Jaskolka, Chief Executive Officer, CMI Financial Group

Jennifer Menard-Shand, Founder & CEO, Staff Shop Inc

Zoho Digital Business of the Year 2022

meowbox

DigitalFire Computing Inc.

East Coast Lifestyle

Optimized Webmedia Marketing

NRI Industrial Sales

Powered By OutReach

Immigrant Entrepreneur of the Year 2022

Piyush Sawhney, Chief Executive Officer at Dr. Phone Fix

Brad Bhatti, Managing Director at Fast Track Appliances Ltd.

Arnon Melo, President at MELLOHAWK Logistics Inc.

Ashish Tandon and Abhishek Tandon, Co-Founders at Godspeed Group

Tunde Omotoye, Co-Founder/CEO at HumanSquad

Yusuf Baykal Bozkurt, Founder/Executive Producer at Beonbrand Inc.

Best Professional Services 2022

William Wright Commercial

Education Consultants Canada (ECC) Inc.

Lunas Consulting

Peninsula Canada

Solulan

Finally Remote Accounting Teams Inc.

Indigenous Entrepreneur of the Year 2022

Corey Anderson, Managing Director at Ingaged Creative Productions Inc.

Trisha Pitura, Co-Founder of MINI TIPI

Michelle Cameron, Owner at Dreamcatcher Promotions

Sabre Pictou Lee, Founder and CEO of Archipel Research and Consulting Inc

Jennifer Menard-Shand, Founder & CEO, Staff Shop Inc.

Mallory G Yawnghwe, Founder and CEO of Indigenous Box

The Sustainable Business 2022

Faulhaber Communications

CD SONTER Ltd.

Sparkgeo

Bloomier

ERA Environmental Management Solutions

NRI Industrial Sales

Please visit www.smeawards.ca for more details.

About CanadianSME:

CanadianSME is a leading organization dedicated to empowering small and medium-sized businesses across Canada. Through a variety of resources, including its digital magazine, business events, and industry insights, CanadianSME strives to support the growth and development of the country's SME sector.

For media inquiries, please contact:

SK Uddin

Publisher, CanadianSME

Phone: (416) 655 0205

Email: info@canadiansme.ca

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/02e755ea-780a-4298-8ecd-5e82a67a46d1
Dublin, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Drilling Waste Management Market, By Service Type, By Application, By Region - Size, Share, Outlook, and Opportunity Analysis, 2023 - 2030" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

This report provides in-depth analysis of drilling waste management and provides market size (US$ Billion) and Cumulative Annual Growth Rate (CAGR %) for the forecast period (2023 - 2030), considering 2022 as the base year.

Company Profiles

Halliburton Co.

Weatherford International Ltd.

Schlumberger Ltd

National Oilwell Varco, Inc

Xi'an Kosun Machinery Co., Ltd.,

Tervita Corporation

Schlumberger Ltd

Nuverra Environmental Solutions

Ridgeline Canada, Inc.,

Baker Hughes

Hebei Gn

Derrick Equipment Company

Augean PLC

Oil and gas drilling process generates a large volume of waste which includes spent mud and drilling cuts. This waste adversely affects human health and the environment. The oil and gas industry is focusing to develop a new technology that will have the least impact on the environment.

For instance, cuttings reinjection (CRI) technology has less impact on the environment and also provides oily waste disposal. The offshore and onshore operators use a variety of methods to manage the drilling wastes. Drilling wastes are accounted for the second largest volume of waste generated by the E&P industry.



Market Dynamics:



The drilling waste management market is expected to be dominated by North America, followed by Europe. This is mainly owing to increasing concerns related to the environment and stringent government regulations. Increasing consumption of crude oil due to growing energy demand is fueling market growth in Asia Pacific, especially in countries such as India, China, South Korea, and Indonesia.

In India, the ONGC (Oil and Natural Gas Corporation) plans to invest in E&P activities of shale gas on the eastern and western country's coast. Moreover, the licensing policy and exploration of hydrocarbon approval in India is in favor of the regional players, which is expected to fuel demand for drilling waste management.



Key features of the study:

It elucidates potential revenue opportunities across different segments and explains attractive investment proposition matrix for this market

This study also provides key insights about market drivers, restraints, opportunities, new product launches or approval, regional outlook, and competitive strategy adopted by the leading players

It profiles leading players in the global drilling waste management market on the basis of the following parameters - company overview, financial performance, product portfolio, geographical presence, distribution strategies, key developments and strategies, and future plans

Insights from this report would allow marketers and the management authorities of companies to make informed decisions regarding their future product launch, technology up-gradation, market expansion, and marketing tactics

The global drilling waste management market report caters to various stakeholders in this industry including investors, suppliers, oil & gas manufacturers, distributors, new entrants, and financial analysts

Stakeholders would have ease in decision-making through the various strategy matrices used in analyzing the drilling waste management market

Key Attributes:

Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 122 Forecast Period 2022 - 2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2022 USD5 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 USD8.9 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 7.4% Regions Covered Global

Detailed Segmentation:

Global Drilling Waste Management Market, By Service Type:

Solids Control

Treatment & Disposal

Containment & Handling

Others

Global Drilling Waste Management Market, By Application:

Onshore

Offshore

Global Drilling Waste Management Market, By region

North America

U.S.

Canada

Europe

U.K.

Norway

Russia

Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific

China

India

Thailand

Australia

Indonesia

Malaysia

Rest of Asia Pacific

Latin America

Brazil

Mexico

Argentina

Rest of Latin America

Middle East

GCC

Israel

Rest of Middle East

Africa

North Africa

Central Africa

South Africa

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/btprzv

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
JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The annual physical Abundance360 event (A360), took place in Los Angeles earlier this year and was attended by hundreds of people. The prestigious event, hosted by world-renowned futurist Dr. Peter H. Diamandis, is where visionary thinkers congregate to learn how to harness the latest technologies, create wealth and solve the worlds greatest challenges. Now, for the first time, African thinkers will also have the opportunity to access these teachings.

Africarare, Africas first metaverse, will be hosting the A360 Metaverse Space Adventure, where, from 5 - 9 June, a self-timed learning format will enable participants to learn from A360s visionaries in Ubuntuland. In a curated Metaverse experience, Diamandis and the A360 speakers will share bleeding-edge insights to help participants leverage technologies and transform their businesses, enhance their philanthropy, and develop Moonshot projects.

There are two participation options: full package access or individual tracks. With the full access package, ticket holders can access all five learning tracks and explore one per day. Individual track access enables participants to select which topics interest them most. Additionally, all participants will get to travel through space in 90-minute virtual reality sessions through an exciting immersive simulation.

The five learning tracks are:

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Speakers include: Emad Mostaque, Rana el Kaliouby, PhD, Andrew Ng, PhD, Dr. Peter H. Diamandis.

Abundance

Speakers include: Sal Khan, Martin Roscheisen, PhD, Geordie Rose, PhD, Andrew Yang, Dr. Peter H. Diamandis

Exponential Technologies (Exponentials)

Speakers include: Paolo Pirjanian, PhD, Ali Khademhosseini, PhD, Alexander Zhavoronkhov, PhD, Jack Hidary, Dr. Peter H. Diamandis

Longevity

Speakers include: Mark Hyman, MD, Doris A. Taylor, PhD, FACC, FAHA, Naveen Jain, Michael Hufford, PhD, Mary Lou Jepsen, PhD, James Min, MD, Hans Keirstead, PhD, Tim Nelson, MD, PhD, Dr. Peter H. Diamandis

Moonshots

Speakers include: Tony Robbins, Dr. Peter H. Diamandis

Dr. Peter H. Diamandis, founder of Abundance360 said, I am thrilled to join the Africarare metaverse and bring the transformative power of immersive learning to the world. With the A360 Summit as a metaverse space adventure, we can explore new frontiers of knowledge and unlock the potential of the next generation of future leaders.

Mic Mann, co-founder and CEO of Africarare, shares his excitement for the upcoming event: Abundance 360 teachings are truly empowering and inspiring, and having attended myself, I can attest to that. Bringing a condensed version of this learning experience to the world is an incredible opportunity for our audiences to benefit tremendously.

To learn more about the A360 Metaverse Space Adventure, or to book tickets, go to https://www.diamandis.com/a360-metaverse-adventure .

For regular updates, follow Africarare on Twitter: @AfricarareNFT.

To access Africarare Ubuntuland, go to: https://africarare.io/



To follow Africarare on social media, go to:

Discord: https://discord.com/invite/YPu7T6VXCw

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AfricarareNft

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/africarare/?hl=en

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ab32a89b-d36a-4fff-8bea-b80e64e8e587
Visiongain has published a new report entitled Decentralised Clinical Trials 2023-2033.



Forecasts by Indication (Oncology, Cardiovascular, Immunology, Respiratory, Others), by Study Design (Interventional, Observational, Expanded Access), by End-users (Pharmaceutical and Biopharmaceutical Companies, CROs, Others), by Component (Mobile Healthcare, Telemedicine, Wearable Devices, Web-based Technology, Others) AND Regional and Leading National Market Analysis PLUS Analysis of Leading Companies AND COVID-19 Impact and Recovery Pattern Analysis.

The decentralised clinical trials market was valued US$7,668.6 million in 2022 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.6% during the forecast period 2023-2033.

Challenges in Maintaining Participant Engagement

Despite the potential benefits of virtual methods in facilitating recruitment and retention of clinical trial participants, life sciences companies continue to encounter challenges in maintaining participant engagement. The observed phenomenon can be attributed to the varying preferences of patients towards decentralised healthcare delivery, which some find convenient, and face-to-face interaction with clinicians, which others prefer.

The utilisation of decentralised trials presents a significant prospect to involve patients who may otherwise face geographical or socioeconomic barriers in accessing a physical research site. It is crucial to avoid wasting this opportunity by utilising a universal approach for patient engagement. Alternatively, diverse methodologies must be formulated to effectively cater to the requirements of distinct patient cohorts.

Download Exclusive Sample of Report

https://www.visiongain.com/report/c-market-2022/#download_sampe_div

How has COVID-19 had a Significant Impact on the Decentralised Clinical Trials Market?

The COVID-19 pandemic has had an initial negative impact on clinical trials, but it has also served as a catalyst for the medtech industry, revealing novel prospects for modernization. It has been observed that sponsors are increasingly recognising the potential benefits of decentralisation and digitization of clinical trials, as it enables them to adopt novel and more efficient approaches for bringing their products to the market.

The implementation of DCTs may result in increased heterogeneity in clinical trials, thereby facilitating the realisation of a paradigm of authentic individualised medicine, wherein the appropriate intervention is administered to the suitable patient at the appropriate juncture.

The advent of digital trials has necessitated the employment of technology to enhance efficiency and provide support in the corporate sector. As we progress, it is imperative to have contemporary solutions for clinical operations and data management. The utilisation of cloud-based solutions that provide a unified platform for managing data, content, and processes enables enterprises to construct and execute a greater number of experiments. The utilisation of cloud-based solutions has been observed to enhance the efficiency of electronic data collection, coding, monitoring, research site document exchange, and trial management and operations oversight. This is achieved by enabling study stakeholders to access data from a centralised location, thereby improving collaboration and teamwork.

How will this Report Benefit you?

Visiongains 278-page report provides 120 tables and 158 charts/graphs. Our new study is suitable for anyone requiring commercial, in-depth analyses for the decentralised clinical trials market, along with detailed segment analysis in the market. Our new study will help you evaluate the overall global and regional market for Decentralised Clinical Trials. Get financial analysis of the overall market and different segments including indication, study design, end-users, component and capture higher market share. We believe that there are strong opportunities in this fast-growing decentralised clinical trials market. See how to use the existing and upcoming opportunities in this market to gain revenue benefits in the near future. Moreover, the report will help you to improve your strategic decision-making, allowing you to frame growth strategies, reinforce the analysis of other market players, and maximise the productivity of the company.

What are the Current Market Drivers?

Growing Adoption of Advanced Technologies is Boosting Industry Growth

The CROs that offer the backbone of clinical trial services are investing in the emerging set of decentralisation features. Innovators in technology are also investing and combining point solutions that can deliver sponsors with more seamless and comprehensive offers. A confluence of growing technologies and services has enabled the relocation of clinical-trial activity closer to patients. Electronic consent, remote patient monitoring, tele healthcare, and electronic clinical-outcome assessments enable investigators to keep in touch with study participants without requiring in-person visits. More treatments can take place away from research facilities thanks to mobile and home healthcare, as well as alternative-care settings.

The digital technologies utilised for data collecting vary depending on the project, but can include wearable/sensor devices, telemedicine, eConsent, electronic clinical outcome assessments, and electronic health records. Mobile technologies are frequently utilised to replace conventional records with electronic records, as well as to collect data through wearable sensor devices. Vitals including blood samples and blood pressure can be collected at home using in-home services. The adoption of digital health technology by consumers has increased year after year. The COVID-19 pandemic has also boosted physicians' comfort using remote technologies. Remote data collection tools including eCOA, novel sensors, camera, voice, actigraphy, and video are gradually being validated, setting standards for their widespread use.

The leading companies including Parexel, IQVIA, and Medidata have gained a vast experience in Decentralised clinical trials offerings. For instance, as of September 2021, Parexel provided over 160 Decentralised clinical trials and more than 200 remote patient engagement approaches combined into trials including patient recruitment & retention platforms, patient insight projects, and e-visits/video dosing regimens. Therefore, the growing adoption of advanced technologies is boosting the market growth.

Rising Presence of CROs in Emerging Market Driving Industry Growth

Pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical companies have successfully established various sourcing models and service lines in emerging markets over the past decade. Sourcing from the emerging markets began with clinical trials to take advantage of the large patient population, but these geographies today deliver their inherent professional services regardless of the placement of clinical trials. Starting with data entry services, pharmaceutical companies and CROs started sourcing from these geographies and grew to include safety programming, data management, biostatistics, scientific writing, and regulatory operations. India was the first destination of choice for outsourcing in emerging markets because of its many advantages and was followed by units developed in China largely because of its commercial relevance. Many emerging countries such as Russia, Brazil, and Philippines are being choices for specialized services such as pharmacovigilance, bioequivalence studies, medical call centres, and others. The placement of clinical trials continues to increase in Latin America, Eastern Europe, and China.

Some of the major CROs that are expanding their presence in emerging markets are Covance (Lab. Corp.); IQVIA; Syneos Health; Parexel; PPD; and ICON. For instance, in April 2020, ICON signed an agreement with Pfizer to provide clinical trial planning, implementation, administration, and conduct skills on a worldwide scale including Asia Pacific and Latin America. Also, in July 2021, Paraxel collaborated with Cancer Hospital Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences for development of patient -based protocol design and techniques in China in connection to decentralised clinical trials. This is such developments are expected to propel the market growth.

Download Exclusive Sample of Report

https://www.visiongain.com/report/c-market-2022/#download_sampe_div

Where are the Market Opportunities?

The acquisition of supplementary information through novel remote sensors and wearables is a highly advantageous feature of decentralised techniques. However, it should be noted that these methods of data collection are still in the process of development. There exist numerous inquiries regarding the most dependable methodologies and the means to juxtapose data acquired through disparate approaches.

Decentralised models have the potential to collect identical information through both virtual and in-person encounters, whether for a single patient or within a study. In certain instances, regulatory bodies may require evidence demonstrating the comparability of data gathered from disparate locations, in order to ensure that such data does not exert undue influence on the ultimate outcome of the clinical trial. Clinical trials can be formulated to address this predicament. In the context of remote healthcare delivery, a healthcare practitioner has the ability to remotely monitor and instruct patients in the proper technique for obtaining their physiological measurements. This approach enhances patient autonomy and promotes the accuracy and consistency of the collected data.

Several approaches for remote data collection are currently under development on a case-by-case basis. Nonetheless, within the industry, it is imperative to scrutinise each technique of data collection and determine the optimal means to enhance dependability and attain authentication for that particular approach.

Competitive Landscape

The major players operating in the decentralised clinical trials market are CASTOR EDC, Clinical ink, CLOUDZBY, INC., Dassault Systemes (Medidata Solutions, Inc.), ERGOMED PLC, FLORENCE HEALTHCARE INC., ICON PLC, IQVIA Holdings, Inc., Labcorp Drug Development, Medable, Inc., Medrio Inc., Oracle Corporation, Parexel International Corporation, PPD (Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.) and Syneos Health. These major players operating in this market have adopted various strategies comprising M&A, investment in R&D, collaborations, partnerships, regional business expansion, and new product launch.

Recent Developments

In April 2023, Clinical ink announced its strategic partnership with Mural Health, a next-generation participant management platform. With this partnership the Clinical ink eSource technology platform, which includes Direct Data Capture (DDC), electronic Clinical Outcomes Assessments (eCOA), Patient Engagement, eConsent, and digital biomarkers, now fully supports participant reimbursement and travel assistance, powered by the Mural Link platform.

In March 2023, Syneos Health signed a multi-year agreement with Microsoft. Utilizing Microsoft Azure services, Syneos Health has developed an advanced analytics platform that enables agile deployment of machine learning (ML) supporting the analysis, design and execution of clinical trials and commercial programs worldwide.

To access the data contained in this document please email oliver.davison@visiongain.com

Avoid missing out by staying informed  order our report now.

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About Visiongain

Visiongain is one of the fastest-growing and most innovative independent market intelligence providers around, the company publishes hundreds of market research reports which it adds to its extensive portfolio each year. These reports offer in-depth analysis across 18 industries worldwide. The reports, which cover 10-year forecasts, are hundreds of pages long, with in-depth market analysis and valuable competitive intelligence data. Visiongain works across a range of vertical markets with a lot of synergies. These markets include automotive, aviation, chemicals, cyber, defence, energy, food & drink, materials, packaging, pharmaceutical and utilities sectors. Our customised and syndicated market research reports offer a bespoke piece of market intelligence customised to your very own business needs.

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WEST PALM BEACH, Fla., April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Madison Ventures+ (MV+), a private/venture equity boutique that combines capital investment with hands-on collaboration, announced today that Mitch Roschelle has been named as a Managing Director.



Roschelle is a well-recognized global business leader and consultant providing guidance in critical areas of finance, governance, asset management, marketing, branding, risk management, strategy, human capital and succession. He possesses nearly four decades of experience advising a wide array of businesses worldwide, with a concentration in commercial real estate and venture capital. Most recently, Roschelle closed a 36-year career with PwC, including more than 27 years as a Partner and 11 years as head of PwCs Global Real Estate Consulting Practice. During his final four years with the firm, Roschelle served as Business Development Leader for the New York Region, covering $4 billion in revenue.

Roschelle previously provided consulting services to MV+ and served as an advisor to some of the firms key platform companies. Mitch brings an incredible amount of experience, contacts, wisdom and real passion to everything he does, and we are thrilled to welcome him to a larger role within our organization, said Bryan Gordon, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of MV+. In todays ever-evolving economic environment, Mitchs insight and leadership will help drive decision making at MV+ to the benefit of our portfolio companies and investors.

A natural storyteller, Roschelle is a highly sought-after speaker and thought leader who regularly shares broad, experienced insights with audiences on media platforms and at industry conferences. He is a frequent guest commentator on Fox Business Network, Fox News Channel, NewsNation, Bloomberg, and Newsmax. Additionally, Mitch is an editorial contributor on CenterClip and is the creator and co-host of The NoPo Podcast, a weekly 30-minute news and comedy program. Based in Delray Beach, Florida, Roschelle will work out of MV+s West Palm Beach office.

The team at MV+ has a long-established reputation for its unique blend of intuition and analysis to generate exceptional risk-adjusted return opportunities for investors, Roschelle said. I look forward to becoming more integrated with the team and engrained in the day-to-day operations at MV+ and am really gratified by the opportunities that await.

For more information or to schedule an interview with Bryan Gordon or Mitch Roschelle, contact Jim Dissett at jim@the9thblock.com.

About Madison Ventures +

Madison Ventures+ was founded in 1996 in New York City, on the philosophy that great ideas need great vision, originality, leadership, and execution to succeed. Over more than 26 years , MV+ has established an exceptional track record of successfully building and revitalizing niche businesses and assets through capital investment, thought leadership, active collaboration, and elbow grease. MV+ was a pioneer in the private/venture equity industry in its adoption of a fundless investment model, utilizing bespoke direct investments through SPVs as opposed to funds. Madison Ventures + has repeatedly identified off-market, high risk-adjusted return investment opportunities in a wide range of overlooked sectors in real estate, specialty finance, healthcare innovation and wellness, and other industries. Since its inception, MV+ has averaged an annualized return on investment of more than 35%, with a sub-5% loss ratio, on approximately $1.9 billion of invested equity capital. Madison Ventures + is your trusted and innovative boutique private investment partner with a personal touch.

Madison Ventures + has offices in West Palm Beach and Denver.

For more information, visit Madison Ventures+ online, email the team, or continue the conversation on LinkedIn.

Contact: Jim Dissett

The 9th Block

303-532-7392

jim@the9thblock.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/dee2936c-64a9-4a85-8d2d-08a64464cb42
LAS VEGAS, NV, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via NewMediaWire  Hemp, Inc. (OTC:HEMP) announced today that the 2023 Farm Bill has been the topic of discussion as it is set to break down barriers for farmers interested in participating in the hemp industry. The carbon-sequestering plant has the potential to reshape U.S. agriculture so its on legislators minds as to how to handle the production of industrial hemp (the newly legalized crop).



Hemp, Inc. executives believe the farm bill will be a great vehicle for updating and reforming agriculture policies, thus creating a solid framework to expand the industry. U.S. Senators Jon Tester (D-Mont.) and Mike Braun (R-Ind.) introduced their bipartisan Industrial Hemp Act on March 23, 2023 to ease the burden on farmers who grow grain and fiber hemp, or industrial hemp. The Senators bill would exempt farmers exclusively growing industrial hemp from the burdensome background checks and costly sampling and testing protocols required for farmers growing cannabinoid hemp. ( Source )

Montana farmers dont need government bureaucrats putting unnecessary burdens on their operations, said Senator Tester. Its time we cut red tape, and make it easier for industrial hemp farmers to get their product to market. My bipartisan bill builds on Montanas leadership on hemp policy and creates good-paying jobs for folks across rural America.

Its important that we set American farmers up for success by cutting burdensome regulations and red tape, said Senator Braun. This legislation will expand opportunities for industrial hemp producers in Indiana and across the country and allow them to tap into one of the fastest growing agricultural markets.

Montana has been a leader in hemp production and for many farmers, this crop gives us more crop rotation options, said Cyndi Johnson, President of Montana Farm Bureau Federation. We appreciate Senator Testers efforts to distinguish between different varieties and update the law to regulate their production more appropriately, giving farmers more certainty in their cropping decisions.

According to the Environmental and Energy Study Institute (EESI) , hemp absorbs twice as much carbon per hectare of land than a forest does, and hemp-derived products can be used to replace paper, petroleum-based plastics, and cotton fibers. But hemp, a strain of the Cannabis plant (from which marijuana is derived), was previously considered a Schedule 1 substance  the most highly regulated narcotics under the Controlled Substances Act.

EESI went on to say, the 2023 Farm Bill can serve as an opportunity to ensure hemp is cultivated and produced to its fullest potential. Ambiguities in federal laws must be addressed to ensure that the hemp market, which was reported to be worth $824 million in 2021, continues growing.

To read the full Industrial Hemp Act 2023, click here .

To catch up with the latest news on Hemp, Inc., be sure to check out:

New Look, New Feel for Hemp, Inc.s Hempinc.com

Hemp Inc.s Year-to-Date Sales Increase 315% Over Last Year

Hemp Inc. Reports Third Quarter Results and Removal of Yield Sign

Hemp Inc. Reveals Stunning Results of its Hemp Research

Hempcrete Approved for U.S. Residential Construction

Hemp Inc. See Significant Increase in Revenue Over the Last 3 Quarters

Hemp, Inc. Offers CBD-CBG Topical Pain Relief Roll-On

Hemp, Inc.s Chief Visionary Consultant Bruce Perlowin Brings Opportunity to Hemp, Inc. (August 8, 2022)

Hemp Inc.s CBDA and CBGA Products on Sale Now (July 19, 2022)

Hemp Inc.s Chief Visionary Consultant Bruce Perlowin talks with Stock Day podcast about Hemp Inc.s super potent line of CBD/CBG/CBN Products (July 7, 2022)

Healthy Products for Healthy Living: A Look into Hemp, Inc.s Pure, Premium, and Potent CBD and Wellness Products (June 16, 2022)

Hemp, Inc. Releases New High Potency CBD/CBG Vanilla Flavored Coffee Enhancer (June 9, 2022)

Hemp, Inc.s King of Hemp CBD-CBG-CBN Natural Sleep Aid Capsules in Stock and On Sale (May 26, 2022)

King of Hemp Natural and Vanilla-Flavored CBD/CBG Super Tinctures Now in Stock (May 12, 2022)



About Hemp, Inc.

With more than 10 years of experience in growing and processing hemp in North America, Hemp, Inc. has an established network of industry professionals in every segment of the industrial hemp industry. Hemp, Inc.s 85,000-square-foot facility on over 9 acres in Spring Hope, N.C. is one of the largest industrial multipurpose hemp processing facilities in North America. Its mission of providing green solutions that help make the world a better place continues to flourish as the company advances an ever-growing portfolio of revenue and value-generating synergistic businesses. Hemp may be the salvation in retooling America for greener, more sustainable domestic manufacturing.

The Company will continue to keep its shareholders up to date on all pertinent material events, product releases, production plans, and inventory availability. Those interested in distributing on a large-scale basis should email sales@hempinc.com or call 877-436-7564 for more information. The entire product line includes tinctures, gummies, capsules, and edibles in a variety of sizes, potencies, flavors, and formulas with a future focus on healthy foods for healthy living.

Forward-Looking Statements



This press release may contain certain forward-looking statements and information, as defined within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and is subject to the Safe Harbor created by those sections. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) requires issuers to provide adequate current information. Financials for Hemp, Inc. are listed on the OTC Exchange. More information can also be found on the Hemp, Inc. website by visiting www.hempinc.com/financial-disclosures/ . The material contains statements about expected future events and/or financial results that are forward-looking in nature and subject to risks and uncertainties. Such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties.

Contact:

Hemp, Inc.

Investor Relations

(855) 436-7688

ir@hempinc.com
Press Release

April 18, 2023 COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC ORDER AND DANGEROUS DRUGS

OPENING STATEMENT

April 18, 2023

Agenda: P.S. Res. No. 518 - Brazen Assassination of Incumbent Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo (By: Sen. Hontiveros) Sen. Dela Rosa: Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. I would like to thank you all for coming to the second hearing of this Committee, on Proposed Senate Resolution No. 518. Yesterday, we were able to discuss several points on the brazen assassination of Governor Degamo that happened last March 4, 2023 and the state of peace and order in the province of Negros Oriental. Napakinggan natin ang panig ng kanyang maybahay, si Mayor Janice Degamo. We feel her pain, and we condole with her over the loss of a good public servant and an even better man. Napakinggan din natin ang panig ni Mr. Henry Teves, na ngayon ay nadadawit sa kasong ito at sa isyu ng illegal firearms. He categorically denied any involvement in such alleged illegal activities. Prior to the assassination of Governor Degamo, there were already a spate of killings in Negros Oriental. Several deaths of government officials were alleged to be politically motivated. But at this point, motive is irrelevant. One loss of life is one loss of life too many. Five hundred murders in a span of five years or an average of one hundred killings a year in a province is not only alarming but also terrifying. The numbers are giving us a heartbreaking picture. We need to shed light on why such violence appears to be given free reign in what is an otherwise very beautiful province. The CAAP and PNP have clarified the alleged irregularities in the alleged helicopter landing in Mawab, Davao de Oro, attributed to Congressman Teves, [which] is actually owned by Bayawan Agri-Venture Corporation and was merely conducting a maintenance flight last March 5. The flight plan of which was confirmed by CAAP to be Davao City, Mawab, Davao De Oro, Davao City and no gunmen were transported on that flight as manifested in the manifest that was given by CAAP and confirmed by the PNP. And also, all the alleged gunmen in that particular day were all accounted for according to DILG and the PNP. Lastly, our invitation to Representative Arnie Teves to physically attend this hearing is still standing. Should he decide to attend, we have assured him of his safety inside and outside the premises of this august body, with the help, of course, of [our] good Secretary of Interior and Local Government, Benjamin Abalos. Those who intend to speak out the truth shall always be welcomed and protected by this institution. Today, we continue with the testimonies of the victims, families, and loved ones of these seemingly politically motivated killings and we will also hear from Negrenses who are allegedly victims of land grabbing and illegal businesses in their province. As always, we emphasize that this is in aid of legislation. Paano ba makakatulong ang Senado? Anong mga polisiya ang kailangang gawin at anong batas ang kailangan nating amyendahan? Yesterday some of them were identified, such as: 1. Strict regulation on the selling and using of military and police uniform 2. Amending the Omnibus Election Code, particularly Section 69 on nuisance candidates; 3. Amending the Local Government Code to ensure that the authority to appoint Provincial Directors must be with the PNP and not with the Local Government officials; 4. Crafting a law that would effectively prevent the organization of private armies not only in Mindanao but nationwide; 5. Monitoring dishonorably discharged military personnel; 6. Inventory of loose firearms and possible amendments to the Firearms Law; 7. Updating of the PNP's Standard of Procedures in addressing the complaints of our citizens; and 8. Imposition of death penalty against erring security personnel who commit heinous crimes taking undue advantage of their training, knowledge and skills. We continue to welcome your input and suggestions in this regard, so that we can ultimately restore order in our communities. However, and allow me to end my opening remarks with this sentiment: it is still my fervent hope that a day will come that we will no longer need to run to legislation to prevent heartless violence. We are one nation, after all. I hope that this sense of unity and wholeness will permeate our politics, and not the other way around. Tulungan natin ang ating Inang Bayan. She needs us now more than ever. And before I finally end, I just would like to clarify some malicious allegations circulating [on] social media, particularly Negros Oriental, na ako daw, being the chairman of this committee is biased to the Teves because ako daw ay bayad na ni Teves. Ako daw ay tuta ni Teves. I would answer that allegation na hindi po ako kaya bayaran kahit gaano kayaman ni Teves, hindi po kaya akong bayaran ng kahit sino man. At 'yung asawa ko daw ay related sa mga Teves by affinity. Ang asawa ko po ay mayroong auntie, bale pinsan ng kanyang mother na married to a Teves diyan sa Dumaguete. Pero itong Teves na ito ay hindi po ito, not in any way related to the Teves family of Arnie Teves. Ito pong Teves na napangasawa ng auntie ng aking asawa ay 'yung mga Teves na malalaking tao na mga Kastila doon sa Bais City. Hindi po ito in any way related. Sila po'y descendants nu'ng Serafin Teves and not with Herminio Teves. Ito pong Herminio Teves na pamilya ng Arnie Teves ay nakabase po sa Bayawan City which is, more or less, 200 kilometers away if I'm not mistaken. So 'yun po ang aking disclaimer. Hindi po ako nababayaran, hindi po ako naging tuta, at hindi po ako related sa mga Teves for full disclosure purposes. Maraming salamat. Sen. Joel Villanueva: Mr. Chairman, I don't have any opening statement. I just would like to point out and also spread into the records my sincerest thanks and great respect to Your Honor as the chairperson of this committee. I for one is a living testimony of what he stated. Hindi kayang bayaran ng salapi, hindi kayang silawin ng anumang kayamanan si Sen. Bato Dela Rosa at ako na ho mismo ang nagpapatunay niyan as a living testimony and I'd like to again to put my full support to the leadership to the chairperson of this committee and I was a living testimony as well when the good chairman mentioned several times and I can no longer count he mentioned we have to make sure this hearing would be impartial and everyone should be heard. So I'd like to out that on record. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Sen. Dela Rosa: Thank you, Majority Leader. Thank you for that support, I really appreciate it. Alam mo, nakaka... H'wag lang madamay 'yung ibang miyembro ng komite na ito because I am the chairman, masayang 'yung paghihirap natin dito na kahit naka-break tayo, tayo'y maghi-hearing dahil nga gusto lang talaga natin ma-address 'yung peace and order situation ng Negros Oriental. Mayor Janice Degamo: Sen. Bato, good morning, Mr. Chair. Sen. Bato, in line with what Sen. Joel Villanueva has said and Sen. JV Ejercito has said, allow me also to express, kami, the aggrieved party also believe in your capacity to be fair and not to be biased in holding this Senate inquiry po. Siguro po 'yung pag-express ng mga taga-Negros Oriental ng kanilang saloobin, tayo po nandidito, nakikita po natin talaga kung ano 'yung talagang ginagawa natin dito. Kaya humihingi po kami ng pasensya on behalf of the people of Negros Oriental. Love po nila si Governor kaya siguro 'pag meron silang nakikitang mga bagay-bagay, they would express something like that. But kami po na aggrieved party, we are here, we are very appreciative po, 'yung break niyo ginamit niyo po para i-meet kami. Pinapili po ako ni Sen. Bato ng time kailan pwede, in fact, there was a schedule way earlier pero sinabi ko po sa kanya, sa inyo po na may naka-schedule na rin po, kung pupwede ba na on this day po. Kaya I would like to put that on record that the victims, kami po na mga nandirito, we are appreciative of the work that you do as the chairperson of this committee po helping us to seek justice and legislative change for our province so that we will no longer see a violence and cruelty to proliferate in our province po. Salamat po, Sen. Bato.
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial, Inc. (Tbird2) has added a new member, Thomas J. Salerno, to its advisory board. Tbird2 is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to preserving the history of aviation in Scottsdale, Arizona, honoring all military veterans, creating unique educational opportunities (scholarships) for Arizona students studying all aspects of aviation, and supporting Dogs4Vets.







About Thomas J. Salerno

Thomas J. Salerno is a fixture in the Arizona legal community, having practiced in the Phoenix Valley for the last 40 years. Mr. Salerno is a partner in the firm of Stinson, LLP, practicing corporate and restructuring law having graduated from Rutgers University and Notre Dame Law School. Mr. Salerno has represented parties in insolvency proceedings in 30 states and five countries. He has been involved in restructurings in the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Switzerland, and the Czech and Slovak Republics.

Mr. Salernos long-standing passion is the preservation of military history. He is currently the chairman of the Arizona Military Historical Society, an organization that is dedicated to preserving the memory of those who served, both home and abroad, in World War II. The Society marches every year in the Phoenix Veterans Day Parade in historically authentic uniforms and with Salernos 1944 Jeep trailing the marchers. He also served for three years as a member of the advisory board of U.S. Vets, a national non-profit dedicated to assisting veterans in making the sometimes challenging transition from military and combat life to civilian life. Mr. Salerno was also the Legal Affairs Officer on the board of directors of the WWII Airborne Demonstration Team Foundation (ADT) based at Frederick Army Air Field in Frederick, Oklahoma, a historic WWII bomber training base. He served on the ADT board for thirteen years, having earned his airborne wings after completing training and completing numerous military style static line parachute drops from Boogie Baby, the teams restored C-47 aircraft.

Tom and his son are curators of the Salerno Museum, which displays the artifacts, uniforms, and weaponry of the WWII era. He, his son, and his Jeep were all on display at the two prior Tbird2 Veterans Day Swing Time fundraising events.

Rudy R. Miller, Chairman of the Advisory Board & Scholarship Committee, Tbird2, remarked, I am extremely pleased that Tom has accepted my invitation to become our third new 2023 advisory board member and he completes our new expanded seven-person board. We have assembled an exceptional committed group of board professionals with tremendous backgrounds and expertise. I am excited about our team coming together and supporting our Tbird2 objectives.

Thomas J. Salerno commented, I am honored to join this advisory board! The mission of Tbird2 in preserving a critical piece of Arizona and U.S. history is essential, and this, combined with my longstanding relationship with Rudy, makes me very excited to work with the fine men and women associated with Tbird2!

Stephen P. Ziomek, Chairman & President, Tbird2, stated, It is truly a find to have such a high caliber and balanced individual join our advisory board. Thomas experience in law and his passion for preserving and supporting the military and veteran community will certainly aid the Tbird2 organization in fulfilling its multi-faceted mission. We are pleased to have Tom on board.

The 2023 Advisory Board Members are Rudy R. Miller, Chairman of the Tbird2 Advisory Board & Scholarship Committee, and Chairman, President & CEO of The Miller Group; W.J. (Jim) Lane, Vice Chairman of the Tbird2 Advisory Board and Former Mayor of the City of Scottsdale; Rob Schwister, Executive Vice President of Equipment Leasing Services, LLC; Randall S. Prust, M.D., President and Founder of Prust Medical Consulting, LLC; Karen Longo, Founder & President of Management Affiliates International, Inc.; Gary Mascaro, Aviation Director at the Scottsdale Airport, City of Scottsdale; and Thomas J. Salerno, Partner, Stinson, LLP.

About Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial, Inc.

Thunderbird Field II Veterans Memorial, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization formed in 2014 and headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona. During World War II, an airfield named Thunderbird Field II was built for the sole purpose of training U.S. Army Air Corps pilots in 1942. Thunderbird Field II graduated over 5,500 men and women pilots, many of whom saw military action in Europe and the Pacific. The field and school were deactivated on October 16, 1944, sold to Arizona State Teachers College (ASU), then to the Arizona Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, and finally to the City of Scottsdale in 1966 and is now known as the Scottsdale Airport (KSDL). Tbird2 has a permanent Veterans Memorial, the centerpiece of which is a 1942 Stearman biplane, at the entrance to the Scottsdale Airport, located at 15000 N. Airport Drive, Scottsdale, AZ, and a historical display inside the facilities honoring the service of men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces as well as POW-MIAs.

About Dogs4Vets

American Service Animal Society, dba Dogs4Vets, is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to enabling disabled veterans live a more productive life through the use of service animals. Dogs4Vets offers lifetime support and service dog training for over 100 Arizona veterans each year, at no cost to the veteran.

Contacts:

Stephen P. Ziomek

Chairman & President

ziomek.steve@gmail.com

480.664.6604

Rudy R. Miller

Chairman, Advisory Board & Scholarship Committee

rrmiller@themillergroup.net

602.225.0505

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c9dcaf11-2889-467b-a8d9-aa4d4d681057
GUADALAJARA, Mexico, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacifico, S.A.B. de C.V., (NYSE: PAC; BMV: GAP) (the Company or GAP) announced the following:



Pursuant to a resolution adopted by our Board of Directors on April 17, 2023, and in accordance with Articles 180, 181, 182, and other applicable articles of the Mexican General Corporations Law and Article 35 of the Companys by-laws, GAP invites its shareholders to the General Ordinary Shareholders Meeting on May 22, 2023, at 12:00, at Salon Midtown Ballroom 3, 3rd floor of the Hilton Hotel, located at Av. Lopez Mateos 2405-300, Col. Italia Providencia, Zip Code 44648, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, to discuss the following:

GENERAL ORDINARY SHAREHOLDERS MEETING AGENDA

The report regarding the designation or ratification of the four members of the Board of Directors and their respective alternates appointed by the Series BB shareholders.



Ratification and/or designation of the persons that will serve as members of the Companys Board of Directors, as designated by the Series B shareholders.



Ratification and/or designation of the member of our Board of Directors designated by the Series B shareholders to serve as a member of the Companys Nominations and Compensation Committee, in accordance with Article 28 of the Companys bylaws.



Appointment and designation of special delegates to appear before a public notary and present the resolutions adopted at this meeting for formalization. Adoption of the resolutions deemed necessary or convenient in order to fulfill the decisions adopted in relation to the preceding agenda items.

Shareholders are reminded that in accordance with Article 36 of the Companys by-laws, only those shareholders registered in the Companys share registry as holders of one or more of the Companys shares will be admitted into the shareholders meetings, and they will be admitted only if they have obtained an admission card. The share registry will close three (3) business days prior to the date of this meeting.

In order to attend the meeting, at least one (1) business day prior to the meeting: (i) shareholders must deposit with the Company their stock certificates, shares or a receipt of deposit of shares from S.D. Indeval Institucion para el Deposito de Valores, S.A. de C.V. (Indeval) or from a local or foreign financial institution, and (ii) brokerage firms and other depositors at Indeval should present a listing containing the name, address, nationality and number of shares of the shareholders they will represent at the meeting. In exchange for these documents, the Company will issue, in accordance with the Companys bylaws, an admission card and/or the forms required under Article 49, Section III of the Mexican Securities Market Law in order to be represented.

In order to attend the meeting, shareholders must present the admission card and/or the corresponding form.

Shares deposited in order to gain admittance to these meetings will only be returned, via a voucher that will have been given to the shareholder or his/her representative.

Shareholders may be represented by proxy at the meetings by any person designated by a power of attorney signed before two witnesses or as otherwise authorized by law. However, with respect to the Companys common stock traded on a stock exchange, the proxy or proxies may only verify their identities via Company forms. These will be available to all shareholders, including any stockbrokers, during the time period specified in Article 173 of the Mexican General Corporations Law.

Following the publication of this announcement, all shareholders and their legal representatives will have free and immediate access to all information and documents related to each of the topics included in the meeting agendas, as well as all proxy forms that must be presented by persons representing shareholders. These documents will be available at the Companys offices located at Av. Mariano Otero #1249-B, 6th Floor, Col. Rinconada del Bosque, Guadalajara, Jalisco 44530 or at Arquimedes #19, 4th Floor, Col. Bosque de Chapultepec, C.P. 11580, Alcaldia Miguel Hidalgo, Mexico City, Mexico 11580.

Shareholders are invited to contact the Company should they have need for any additional information.

Company Description

Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacifico, S.A.B. de C.V. (GAP) operates 12 airports throughout Mexicos Pacific region, including the major cities of Guadalajara and Tijuana, the four tourist destinations of Puerto Vallarta, Los Cabos, La Paz and Manzanillo, and six other mid-sized cities: Hermosillo, Guanajuato, Morelia, Aguascalientes, Mexicali and Los Mochis. In February 2006, GAPs shares were listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol PAC and on the Mexican Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol GAP. In April 2015, GAP acquired 100% of Desarrollo de Concessioner Aeroportuarias, S.L., which owns a majority stake in MBJ Airports Limited, a company operating Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, Jamaica. In October 2018, GAP entered into a concession agreement for the operation of the Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston, Jamaica and took control of the operation in October 2019.



This press release may contain forward-looking statements. These statements are statements that are not historical facts and are based on managements current view and estimates of future economic circumstances, industry conditions, company performance and financial results. The words anticipates, believes, estimates, expects, plans and similar expressions, as they relate to the company, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Statements regarding the declaration or payment of dividends, the implementation of principal operating and financing strategies and capital expenditure plans, the direction of future operations and the factors or trends affecting financial condition, liquidity or results of operations are examples of forward-looking statements. Such statements reflect the current views of management and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. There is no guarantee that the expected events, trends or results will actually occur. The statements are based on many assumptions and factors, including general economic and market conditions, industry conditions, and operating factors. Any changes in such assumptions or factors could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations.

In accordance with Section 806 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and article 42 of the Ley del Mercado de Valores, GAP has implemented a whistleblower program, which allows complainants to anonymously and confidentially report suspected activities that June involve criminal conduct or violations. The telephone number in Mexico, facilitated by a third party that is in charge of collecting these complaints, is 01 800 563 00 47. The web site is www.lineadedenuncia.com/gap . GAPs Audit Committee will be notified of all complaints for immediate investigation.
Vancouver, April 17, 2023 - Origen Resources Inc. (CSE: ORGN) (FSE: 4VXA) (the "Company" or "Origen") is pleased to announce it has added to its large land package at its 100% owned Los Sapitos Lithium Project in San Juan Province, Argentina. Origen has applied for 6,200 hectares just south east of the main Los Sapitos area, covering a shallow basin.

Thomas Hawkins, Managing Director, notes: "We are very excited about what we are seeing in San Juan and having a top-notch team in Argentina has allowed us to quickly move to add to our substantial land holdings. Our field crews have just completed their work at Los Sapitos, so they can now be dedicated to the new Los Toritos area to identify further priority areas."

Origen's two field crews have just completed sampling and mapping work on the four priority areas initially outlined at Los Sapitos. The Company currently plans to follow this field work with geophysical surveys and is still on-track for the initial drill testing program planned for the second half of this year.

Origen's Los Sapitos Lithium Project is located in the northern part of the San Juan Province in Argentina. Discovered by Origen during a global search for lithium occurrences, the most prospective part of Los Sapitos consists of 26,962 hectares of contiguous exploration licences, covering a lithium-rich brine occurrence, with an additional 6,200 hectares less than 10 km away. Our lithium exploration team has theorized that like at Clayton Valley, the brines are contained at depth in dipping aquifers controlled by faults and therefore have never formed a conspicuously visible salt lake. Preliminary water sampling in Los Sapitos indicated lithium levels similar to some established lithium salars - as high as 390 mg/l (see news release dated October 13, 2021). This crucially demonstrates that Los Sapitos has inflows with the right chemistry to generate lithium brines. Ulexite (a boron evaporite mineral) has also been identified at Los Sapitos and indicates that concentrated boron-bearing brines have been present.





Figure 1. Map of Los Toritos area, next to Los Sapitos Lithium Project area,

San Juan province, Argentina



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/7117/162604_37e8e543c4fa0899_001full.jpg







Figure 2. Images of a field crew sampling at Los Sapitos



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/7117/162604_37e8e543c4fa0899_0002full.jpg

About Origen

Origen is fully focused on its 100% interest in the Los Sapitos Lithium project in Argentina and its 100% interest in the 33,000 ha Newfoundland Lithium projects, and also holds a property portfolio of four 100% owned precious and base metal projects in southern British Columbia, a 100% interest in the 26,771 ha LGM project in the mineral rich Golden Triangle of British Columbia, and a portfolio of investments from prior property joint ventures and sales.

John Harrop, P.Geo., a Qualified Person as that term is defined in NI 43-101 has prepared, supervised the preparation or approved the scientific and technical disclosure in the news release.

On behalf of Origen,

Thomas Hawkins

Managing Director

For further information, please contact Gary Schellenberg, Chief Executive Officer, at 604-681-0221.

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.

Certain of the statements made and information contained herein may constitute "forward-looking information." In particular references to the private placement and future work programs or expectations on the quality or results of such work programs are subject to risks associated with operations on the property, exploration activity generally, equipment limitations and availability, as well as other risks that we may not be currently aware of. Accordingly, readers are advised not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise 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/162604
Drilling identifies a potential mineralized 161 metre zone with nickel values up to 0.19 % Ni in Drill Hole NKV23-05 within 202 metres of ultramafic located within the Company's claim block adjacent to Canada Nickel Company's Macdiarmid Discovery

Highlights:

Maiden eleven-hole drill program has been completed.

Eight drill holes, 0.19% in the 48 samples taken. The interval identified is open at depth, as this hole terminated in ultramafic.

Vancouver, British Columbia - Xander Resources Inc. ("Xander" or the "Company") (TSXV:XND) (OTC:XNDRF) (FSX:1XI) is pleased to announce the drill results from its maiden drill program at its Timmins Nickel Project (the "Property") located in Timmins, Ontario.

The drill results are headlined by a potential 161-metre mineralized zone with 30 metres grading 0.14% Ni and multiple intervals of 0.18% over 3 metres in drill hole NKV23-05 from 177 to 204 metres within a 202-metre ultramafic unit beginning at 50.4 metres, and a potential 43.5 metre mineralized zone with intervals of 0.14% over 3 metres, 0.21% over 2.7 metres, and 0.19% over 4.5 metres in NKV23-04 within an at least 77-metre ultramafic (gabbro/peridotite) beginning at 178 metres. Mineralization in both holes appears to extend over the entire interval and is open at depth. Further sampling will be completed confirm the mineralized length within each drill hole.

Both drill holes were located within drill targets at the Company's "South Block" of claims that are located adjacent to Canada Nickel Company's (CNC) Macdiarmid Discovery (as shown in Figure 1 below) where in May 2021, Canada Nickel announced a secondary discovery in a geophysical target approximately 1.8 kilometres long indicating a structural footprint averaging 400 metres in width - 15% larger than Canada Nickel's original Crawford's Main Zone discoveryi. The footprint of the conductor tested by NKV23-05 is approximately 400 metres by 300 metres, making Xander's discovery comparable both in grade and size.

Deepak Varshney, CEO of Xander said, "We are very pleased to have made a discovery as part of our maiden drill program, with two of our first three drill holes at the South Block having returned significant intersections that are comparable to those of CNC's adjacent Macdiarmid Discovery. Given our prime location and CNC's aggressive pursuit in acquiring land within this district, particularly adjacent to its existing discoveries including Macdiarmid where their claims now surround ours, expanding upon these results will be a primary focus for the Company moving forward as we develop our Timmins nickel portfolio.

Mr. Varshney continued: "We are also very pleased with the information learned from the drilling conducted in our North Block as part of this first-pass program. The geological data has provided the Company with a better understanding of the geology across our extensive land package as many of our targets remain undrilled. With the invaluable information obtained from this program, our follow-up drill program will be comprehensive with a focus on expanding our discovery in the South Block and in targeting untested targets in the North. Completing this program was an important milestone for our company as we endeavour to take part in the journey to secure a domestic supply of North American nickel. The Timmins camp is gaining momentum with various other promising assets and companies in this region, and we look forward to continuing our journey and being a part of this story."



Click Image To View Full Size

Figure 1 - Location of Xander's Claims in the Timmins Camp.

Drilling Summary

In total, 3,730 metres were drilled across the two phases of the maiden drill program. The program was designed to test targets with potential for significant nickel mineralization comparable to Canada Nickel Company's Crawford, MacDiarmid, and Reid Discoveries, located in Timmins, Ontario. Eight drill holes, NKV22-01 to 06 and NKV23?01 to 03, were advanced within the "North Block" of claims, located adjacent to CNC's Reid Discovery and to the west on trend with CNC's Crawford Discovery. Three, drill holes NKV23-04 to 06, were advanced within the "South Block" of claims, located adjacent to CNC's Macdiarmid Discovery. Figure 2 outlines the locations of the drill holes.

NKV22-05, located to the west of CNC's Reid Discovery, returned 11.5 metres of 0.15% Ni from a depth of 244 to 255.5 metres.

NKV23-04, located to the east of CNC's Macdiarmid Discovery, returned intervals of 0.14% over 3 metres, 0.21% over 2.7 metres, and 0.19% over 4.5 metres within at least 77 metres of ultramafic (gabbro/peridotite) beginning at 178 metres. Infill sampling is required to determine the exact grade, but visually the mineralization appears consistent with grades ranging from 0.14% - 0.22% in the 7 samples taken suggesting that a potential 43.5-metre mineralized zone is present.

NKV23-05, located to the east of CNC's Macdiarmid Discovery, returned multiple intervals of 0.18% over 3 metres and an interval of 0.14% over 30 metres within at least 202 metres of ultramafic (gabbro/peridotite) beginning at 50.4 metres. Infill sampling is required to determine the exact grade of this interval, but visually the mineralization appears consistent with grades ranging from 0.09% - 0.19% in the 48 samples taken suggesting that a potential 161-metre mineralized zone is present.

NKV22-01 to 04 and 06 and NKV23-06 did not return notable intercepts; these targets were identified based on electromagnetic and magnetic anomalies that largely occurred due to the presence of graphite.

Both NKV23-04 and NKV23-05 terminated in ultramafics indicating they are open at depth. Based on the drilling observed, the Company believes that the ultramafic unit present in NKV23-04 extends on to CNC's recently purchased claims to the south based on the proximity of the drill hole to the claim boundary.

Based on the findings of its maiden program, the Company intends on completing a follow-up program that builds on its success at NKV23-04 and NKV23-05 while utilizing the information obtained from the other drill holes to also explore the numerous untested targets present across its approximately 72 km2 of claims, particularly those on its most recent acquisition, the "West Claim" block, where it has already outlined 6 targets immediately ready for drill-testing.

Composite weighted assays are included in the table below.

Hole ID From (m) To (m) Interval (m) Logged Rock Type Ni (%) NKV22-03 244 255.5 11.5 Peridotite 0.135 NKV23-04* 187.5 190.5 3 Peridotite 0.144 NKV23-04* 205.5 208.2 2.7 Peridotite 0.213 NKV23-04* 226.5 231.0 4.5 Peridotite 0.186 NKV23-05** 67.0 70.0 3 Peridotite 0.185 NKV23-05** 87.0 90.0 3 Peridotite 0.167 NKV23-05** 105.0 108.0 3 Peridotite 0.158 NKV23-05** 125.0 128.0 3 Peridotite 0.155 NKV23-05** 147.0 150.0 3 Peridotite 0.177 NKV23-05** 159.0 162.0 3 Peridotite 0.176 NKV23-05** 177.0 207 30 Peridotite 0.137 NKV23-05** 223 229 6 Peridotite 0.136

*Note 1 - The intervals presented were the only samples/assays taken between 187.5 - 252 metres, additional assays are required to determine the width and grade of the entire mineralized zone.

** Note 2 - The intervals presented were the only samples/assays taken in the entire hole, additional assays are required to determine the width and grade of the entire mineralized zone.

The field program was run by Andrew Tims, and the drill core from was split with half sent to AGAT in Timmins, Ontario for the drill holes completed in 2022. The 2023 drill core samples were delivered to Activation Labs in Timmins, Ontario. Samples were analyzed via sodium peroxide fusion with ICP OES + ICP MS finishes plus fire assay with an ICP MS finish for precious metals. Duplicates, standards and blanks were inserted into the sample stream.

Drill Hole Coordinates:

DDH_No UTMnad83_East UTMnad83_North Azimuth Dip Length NKV22-01 452951 5402673 225 -50 549 NKV22-02 454453 5403755 40 -50 426 NKV22-03 454800 5404125 206 -50 423 NKV22-04 454802 5404126 37 -50 348 NKV22-05 453190 5403950 196 -63 425 NKV23-01 450869 5408327 200.1 50.1 255 NKV23-02 451772 5409240 359.9 -50 264 NKV23-03 451010 5409255 359.8 -50 273 NKV23-04 461452 5390373 180 -50 255 NKV23-05 461550 5391120 20.1 -50 252 NKV23-06 462385 5392737 194 -50 259.5



Click Image To View Full Size

Figure 1 - Location of drill holes comprising Xander's maiden drill program.

The Timmins Nickel Project

The Timmins Nickel Project consists of two (2) separate mineral claim blocks and is located within the Timmins mining camp in Ontario, Canada, a highly prolific mining complex with over 100 hundred years of history and well supported by major infrastructure including highways, rail, and relatively inexpensive hydroelectric power.

The "North Block" consists of 336 claims located approximately 21 kilometres west of Canada Nickel Company's (CNC's) Crawford Project where CNC has completed a preliminary economic assessment only 20 months after the commencement of exploration drilling that indicates 25-year mine with an after-tax NPV8% of $1.2 billionii. It is also situated southwest of Kingsmill, Mahaffy-Aubin, and Nesbitt North, properties acquired from Noble Mineral Exploration by Canada Nickel through option agreements earlier in 2021iii and adjacent to CNC's recently identified Reid Discovery which has already through early exploration delineated a mineralized footprint 90% as large as Crawford.

The "South Block" consists of 50 claims contiguous to Canada Nickel's MacDiarmid Project where in May 2021, Canada Nickel announced a secondary discovery through the identification of significant intersections of mineralized dunite similar to the average mineralization initially discovered at Crawford. Geophysical surveys reveal that the MacDiarmid target to be approximately 1.8 kilometres long indicating a structural footprint averaging 400 metres in width - 15% larger than Canada Nickel's original Crawford's Main Zone discoveryiv. Xander's maiden drill program has identified its own discovery with grades and mineralization comparable to those identified by CNC at Macdiarmid.

Qualified Person

The technical content of this news release has been reviewed and approved by Mr. Andrew Tims, P.Geo., a qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101").

About Xander Resources Inc.

Xander Resources Inc. is a Canadian mineral acquisition and exploration company based in Vancouver, BC, Canada focused on developing accretive gold and battery metal properties within Canada. The company currently has a focus on projects located within the Provinces of Ontario and Quebec.

Xander is exploring for commercially exploitable mineral deposits and is currently focused on deposits located in Val-d'Or, Quebec, including the Senneville Claim Group which comprises over 100 sq. km and is contiguous in the south to Probe Metals' new discovery, and contiguous in the north to Monarch Mining, in close proximity to Eldorado Gold's (formerly QMX Gold) projects, and east of the North American Lithium Deposit, Great Thunder Gold's Chubb Lithium property and East of the Sayona Quebec's Authier Lithium Deposit, all in the Val-d'Or Mining Camp, plus its newly acquired nickel-sulphide project in Timmins, Ontario near Canada Nickel's MacDiarmid and Crawford Projects.

We seek Safe Harbor

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Deepak Varshney, P.Geo., President and CEO

For more information, please email ir@xanderresources.ca, or visit www.xanderresources.ca.

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.

Forward-looking statements:

This news release may include "forward-looking information" under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Such forward-looking information reflects management's current beliefs and are based on a number of estimates and/or assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that such forward-looking information are neither promises nor guarantees and are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties, uncertain and volatile equity and capital markets, lack of available capital, actual results of exploration activities, environmental risks, future prices of base and other metals, operating risks, accidents, labour issues, delays in obtaining governmental approvals and permits, and other risks in the mining industry.

The Company is presently an exploration stage company. Exploration is highly speculative in nature, involves many risks, requires substantial expenditures, and may not result in the discovery of mineral deposits that can be mined profitably. Furthermore, the Company currently has no reserves on any of its properties. As a result, there can be no assurance that such forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements.

i https://canadanickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/2021-10-26-East-Zone-High-Grade-vFinal2.pdf

ii Preliminary Economic Assessment, titled "Crawford Nickel-Sulphide Project National Instrument 43-101 Technical Report and Preliminary Economic Assessment", Effective Date of May 21, 2021

iii https://canadanickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/20210422-Canada-Nickel-Acquires-Option-Properties-final.pdf

iv https://canadanickel.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/2021-10-26-East-Zone-High-Grade-vFinal2.pdf

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Can the IMF be trusted?

Charles Benoni Okine Business News Apr - 18 - 2023 , 04:02

At the just-ended Spring Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank, the Breton Wood institutions demonstrated readiness to bail out Ghana by providing it with the badly needed $3 billion balance-of-payment support.

Consistently in many sessions, the IMF Boss, Kristalina Georgieva, was heard vowing to help Ghana secure a timely bailout from the fund to enable it to revive the ailing economy battered by the twin global incidents of COVID-19, the Russia invasion of Ukraine, and domestically, over-borrowing on the part of the government, mostly for consumption rather than investment in capital projects according to many experts.

Last Thursday, for instance, Ms Georgieva said Ghana has a long track record of sound macroeconomic policies and must, therefore, not be allowed to fail under crises caused by external factors.

To many, having painted a good picture of Ghana in the eyes of the world, the IMF should not be using words like soon as a timeline, because that word has been used many times since December last year after the country reached a Staff Level Agreement with the fund.

The IMF has set several indirect conditions such as asking Ghana to restructure its debt and bring it down from the present 102 per cent of GDP to about 55 per cent by 2028.

Much as the demands may look or sound light in nature, the conditions are hurting the economy because it is clear that all the measures being taken by the government, such as the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP) and the recent passage of new revenue bills expected to rope in additional GHC4.5 billion at the end of the year, are badly hurting the economy and for that matter businesses while draining household incomes.

Analysts and some Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) have persistently warned the government to be cautious in its dealings as it moves to meet the conditions set by the IMF.

A Partner at Ishmael Yamson and Associates, Dr Mike Harry Yamson, on a Joy FM programme, was emphatic when he said, for instance, that taxation was good to rake in revenue.

However, it was wrong for the government to target the formal sector alone while doing almost nothing to rope in the informal sector as a way of reducing the burden on those already in the tax net.

According to him, the implementation of the process by the government was a clear indication that there was no proper plan being followed, hence the back and forth that is hurting household incomes.

The irony

Judging from the comments made by the IMF, the lender of last resort, there is no reason why it has to subject Ghana to this painful exercise.

It is clear that the IMF, for the first time, is pushing a country in heavy debt distress to deal with its local creditors before it will approve a bailout.

Ghana has been to the IMF 17 times. None, apart from this current one, has been that painful, because it has made the government confused to an extent that it is forcing policies down the throat of businesses and individuals to look good in the eyes of the IMF but refusing to appreciate how draconian the impact has become.

Parliament, which was expected to stand for the people, has also woefully failed to protect the very individuals who voted for them and instead, allowed the passage of bills that seem to suck the life out of the people to go through.

The cries of the people are loud enough for the IMF to hear. However, the body expected to save the people is rather playing hard while the people suffer.

Warning

When Ghana defaulted on its debts and reached a preliminary agreement on the $3bn IMF bailout last December, the IMF imposed many familiar conditions to get the countrys finances back on track.

One demand, however, was strikingly new, and analysts say it will change the debt landscape forever.

The IMF said that before it asks its board to approve the support package, Ghana must first address its domestic debts  money typically borrowed from local banks, pension funds, insurance companies and even individuals.

This has opened a can of worms, in Ghana and elsewhere, an analyst who is also a low, emerging market debt portfolio manager at an investment company, Ninety One, told the Financial Times, adding that Every restructuring is going to have this issue hanging over it.

The dilemma for the government in this strange scenario is that, as it sinks deep into default, it faces a stark choice.

It must be noted that if the government forces its overseas creditors to shoulder all the pain, it risks losing access to foreign capital while struggling to restore its overall debt to a sustainable footing.

Yet, pushing losses onto domestic creditors risks wiping out local banks, pension funds and insurance companies, a scenario which is already playing out.

The cost to taxpayers of recapitalising an already battered banking sector can be more than the savings achieved through debt restructuring according to analysts.

This is true because some four years ago, the government took the country through that path and created serious challenges, most of which still linger, despite the over GHS23 billion it claimed to have used to solve a problem which, if properly done, would have cost the taxpayer less.

Conclusion

The issue is simple in this case. If the IMF truly believes in the government to put the economy back on track, there is no need for it to impose these draconian conditions which are hurting the mass of the people.

It cannot shower praises on the government whilst in public, only to squeeze it behind the scenes.

The trust issues about the fund have reared their ugly heads again and if the IMF wants the people to trust it, then it is time to demonstrate commitment by releasing the bailout funds without any further delays and stop using soon because soon has been six months already with no end in sight.

The more it delays, the more the government gets confused as to what to do to please the fund and that cannot continue any longer.
Domestic Debt Exchange Programme: Pension funds next? It is off the table  Ofori-Atta

Maxwell Akalaare Adombila Business News Apr - 18 - 2023 , 05:00

Ghanas Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, was coy with his answers when asked the simple question as to what exactly was his plea to labour unions to help the government seal a US$3-billion bailout from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) last Sunday.

At a press briefing in Washington, DC, to wrap up the week-long IMF/World Bank Spring Meetings, Mr Ofori-Atta had called on organised labour and Ghanaians in general to help the government shoulder the burden of economic revitalisation.

Earlier reports last week had pointed to a possible revisit of the exemptions offered pension funds from the Domestic Debt Exchange Programme (DDEP). However, Mr Ofori-Atta was swift to dismiss the reports.

Following labour agitation, pension funds were exempt from the programme.

Taking a leaf from the books of the IMF Managing Director, Kristilana Georgievas earlier call on bilateral and multilateral creditors of Ghana to help Ghana manage its debt crises, Mr Ofori-Atta also made his own plea to labour unions in Ghana to help the government achieve a sustainable debt threshold.

Details on his plea to labour remain sketchy, as that is a very sensitive matter.

He said as global leaders made strong moves for the country to secure its US$3 billion support from the IMF swiftly, domestic stakeholders, such as labour unions, needed to act positively in the wider interest of the economy.

Consequently, he said, he was optimistic that labour and all interested stakeholders would come together to help address the debt sustainability challenges.

Leaked Memo

Pension funds, which are largely managed by fund managers on behalf of organised labour, were exempted from the DDEP that saw investors taking on losses.

However, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) that was signed with the fund managers required them to help the government bring the debt to sustainable levels.

In a leaked letter authored by Mr Ofori-Atta to the trustees of the funds, the Finance Ministry sought to invoke the MoU when he requested the trustees to accept new terms meant to help address the governments financial needs while maintaining the value of the pension funds.

The proposed offer entails exchanging your current holdings of treasury bonds, ESLA bonds and Daakye Bonds for a menu of the currently outstanding new bonds (issued in February 2023 and maturing in 2027 and 2028, respectively, the letter, which also promised to settled the new bonds in April, said.

At his closing press conference at the Spring Meetings, Mr Ofori-Atta said that proposal to the trustees must be seen in the context of burden sharing.

He noted that there was the need to acknowledge that the country was facing an economic crisis that required all hands on deck to address.

The challenge for us, as a nation, is the acknowledgement that we do have an economic crisis, and that everybody at some point in time has to put his or her shoulders to the wheel, he said.

Goodwill

The Finance Minister said the country was fortunate to have garnered monumental goodwill from global leaders on the economy and finance for its push for an economic turnaround, and that now it required key local partners, such as employees and the private sector, to play their part in crystalising the sentiments into concrete gains.

We need to look at it from the context of burden sharing and where we want the country to get to, and that becomes incumbent on everyone to support, he said.

If you look at the labour discussion, we specifically also talked about examining mutually beneficiary options within the debt sustainability limit  getting down to 55 per cent of debt-to-gross domestic product (GDP) ratio and 18 per cent revenue-to-GDP ratio.

That is the spirit with which we are moving, he said when asked to explain how the ministry wanted labour to help bring the debt to sustainable levels.

We did a difficult DDEP and we are working with the Paris Club, which will result in some accommodation. We will work with the Eurobond investors  our private lenders  as you call them, which will also result in some accommodation.

My expectation is that as we look at building a stronger society in which everybody will benefit, we all need to move to the position that enlightens self interest and dictates the survivability of our society for all of us, the minister added.

Optimistic

He expressed optimism that labour would support the government to fashion out the right policy to address the teething debt problem to enable the country reach the needed sustainability threshold quickly for growth to return.

He described the mood from the Spring Meetings as overwhelming, noting that there had been tremendous show of support from the World Bank, the IMF and the countrys bilateral partners for the push for a swift fund-assisted programme.

From all indications, we expect financing assurances to come in weeks. The indication from the fund is that given the kind of work we have done, once those assurances come in, it will facilitate and move very quickly for the approval to be given, he said.

Cocoa and dollar bonds haircut

Denying the earlier report, the Finance Minister said the government had concluded and closed that chapter after exempting pension funds from the DDEP that saw more than GH83 billion of relatively short-dated and costly debts swapped for low-cost, long-term bonds.

Instead, Mr Ofori-Atta said, local dollar bonds and cocoa bills would be worked on, adding that it was part of the comprehensive debt restructuring process needed to bring the public debt to sustainable levels.

A presentation the minister made to investors in Washington, DC, showed that the local dollar bonds and cocoa bills summed up to GH15 billion.

The hint at working on local dollar bonds and cocoa bills was in response to media reports that a second round of the DDEP was near, with pension funds being the target.

"In line with the February 22 memorandum of understanding (MoU) with labour, pension funds were exempted, and that has not changed. So it is not true that we are planning a second round of DDEP," he said.

"You know that we still have cocoa bills and the domestic dollar bonds that we are still working with," Mr Ofori-Atta said.

Earlier, he had told investors as part of the meetings that the DDEP had ended and now it was their turn to burden share in Ghana's quest to secure a $3-billion bailout from the IMF.

He said the commercial lenders understood that position and were now waiting on relevant documentations from Ghana to be able to provide their proposal on how the process should move forward.

The country owed about 14.5 billion to commercial lenders, including Eurobond holders and the 2030 World Bank partially guaranteed bond, Mr Ofori-Atta said at the investor engagement.

China

On China, he said earlier he was optimistic that that country would grant its financial assurances "in weeks" to enable the government to move forward with its bailout request.

China, which holds $1.9 billion of Ghana's $5.5 billion bilateral debt, has been seen as a potential source of delay to the granting of financial assurances to the country, which is the only outstanding pre-condition to the final approval of the request by the Executive Board of the IMF.

Mr Ofori-Atta said China had been more cooperative, with evidence showing that it would soon endorse the process.

He said the Asian giant had been attending all the meetings of the Paris Club and was now close to offering its financial assurance to the club to be forwarded to the IMF.

They have joined all of the Paris Club meetings and we really expect them to offer these assurances to the Paris Club, so that they will then forward them to the fund, he said.

The assurances are a mix of debt cancellation, restructuring and commitment of further strategic lending, mainly to support productive sectors of the economy and investments that can lift the poor and vulnerable from the poverty line.

According to the minister, China had been very clear that Ghana was facing short-term problems and was confident in the long-term prospects of the economy.

That, he said, had informed Chinas decision to offer the needed assurance to enable Ghana to get the approval for its request.
Funding sources for micro, small and medium size enterprises in Ghana

By Yaw Appiah Lartey, Kwasi Adu-Mante & Tara Samera Business News Apr - 18 - 2023 , 05:22

Raising capital is crucial to sustaining and growing small and medium enterprises. Across the world, many MSMEs are unable to close deals when raising capital. One may ask, what factors affect the successful closing of a deal?

Below, we present the key success factors for MSMEs seeking to raise funding.

 Lack of knowledge of competitors

There is not a single industry without competition. Investors tend to lose interest when they realise a MSME they want to invest in lacks knowledge of its competitors. When a business has knowledge of its competitors, it can properly differentiate itself from its competitors and stand out as an attractive investment amongst its industry peers.

Investors are always keenly interested in who are the key competitors in the industry and how the company they seek to invest in compares to its competitors within the industry. A company that has no sound plan to thrive within a competitive industry will struggle to convince investors to close a fundraising deal.

 Cashflows of the business

Can a business survive without cash? If the cash position of the business is low or keeps reducing without any corresponding inflows, investors tend to be hesitant to invest in the business.

A high cash burn rate could potentially be a deal breaker for most investors. In addressing this, MSMEs can give shorter credit periods to customers and negotiate for longer credit periods from suppliers or creditors.

This will ensure that cash is recovered from customers early enough to pay back creditors without having to resort to costly short-term or stopgap funding sources to meet obligations to creditors.

This will ultimately ensure that the business maintains a healthy liquidity profile.

 Outsourcing core competencies

Core competencies are very attractive to potential investors. In a situation where core competencies are outsourced to other companies, the success of the company becomes contingent on the outsourced party.

Investors will be reluctant to invest in the company since the third party will have indirect control of the potential success of the company.

An investor who cannot assume control over the companys core competencies, through the third party, will likely be uncomfortable investing in the company.

It is important for MSMEs to be aware of its core competencies and remain in full control, building on them internally and crafting its growth plans around expansion of such core competencies.

 Customer concentration risk

Before raising capital, MSMEs must assess their customer concentration risk.

This could be described in ordinary terms as the risk associated with the situation where only a few customers account for majority of the revenue of a company; which business would like one or two customers to drive their revenues?

High customer concentration poses a risk to the company since two or three customers can drastically affect the revenues of the business by simply altering their purchasing decisions.

The bargaining power of these customers is higher in such circumstances, while that of the company becomes relatively lower.

High customer concentration is a deal breaker for investors since the important customers have great control of the success of the company.

Businesses must quickly diversify their customer base to neutralise the concentration risk from a few customers.

 Financial statements

No investor with prior knowledge of the flawed financials of an MSME is likely to invest in the business.

Consistent and accurate financial statements present a true and fair window into the internal and external functions of the business, which provides important insights to potential investors.

The MSMEs will receive funding only after extensive due diligence has been conducted. When raising capital, financial statements should depict a true reflection of the company.

This also demonstrates integrity on the part of the company. When the financial statement does not depict a true view of the business, it serves as a deal breaker for investors.

Conclusion

Capital raising for MSMEs in Ghana over the years has been quite a daunting task. It is essential for MSMEs to assess their options and need for raising capital, including a clear plan for the use of funds as this can have an enormous impact on the performance of businesses.

To improve their chances of securing the needed capital from investors, MSMEs can seek the help of corporate finance experts to guide them through the capital raising process.
Solving unemployment through textile, apparel industry: The case of DTRT

Emmanuel Bruce Business News Apr - 18 - 2023 , 04:00

The Countrys unemployment situation reached an all-time high after increased population and low economic output pushed the rate into double digits at the last count.

The 2021 Housing and Population Census report by the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) indicated that the rate of people who are available for work but unable to find jobs had more than doubled from 5.3 per cent in 2010 to 13.4 per cent, which was the highest since 1984 when the countrys unemployment data was first reported.

Out of the economically active population of 11.54 million, the report showed that 1.55 million were unemployed. Females and youth between the ages of 15 years and 24 years were the worse hit.

To many, the report of the GSS was a clear reflection of the joblessness situation in the country, with university and tertiary graduates using an average of five years before they could land themselves a job.

This high rate of unemployment among young people and university graduates is the countrys most urgent social, security and political problem.

Textile and apparel industry

As the search for jobs intensifies in the country, one area that has been identified as a huge source of jobs for the teeming unemployed youth of the country is the textile and apparel industry, which employs millions of people across the world.

Countries like India, China, Bangladesh and Vietnam among others, have capitalised on this sector to create employment and grow their economies.

The World Bank has always maintained that this industry has the potential to create better jobs and lift a lot of people out of poverty. In India, the industry has created over 45 million jobs, making it the second highest employer; and contributes over 13 per cent of export earnings.

In Ghana, although the government identified the sector as one of its anchor industries, very little has been done to unlock its full potential.

Also although the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) gives free market access to apparel manufacturers in Ghana to export their products to the USA, only a few companies have been able to take advantage of this opportunity due to the lack of support.

The case of DTRT

Local apparel manufacturer, Do The Right Thing (DTRT), is a good case of what the textile and apparel industry can do for a country in terms of job creation and economic growth.

The company, which started in 2014 with a staff size of 25 people, now employs over 5,000 people, making it one of the countrys largest private sector employers that rakes in over US$40 million in export revenue annually.

DTRT, which is one of the few companies which have taken full advantage of the US market under the AGOA initiative, now has two factories in the country, with plans to expand further into other West African Countries.

Speaking in an interview with the Graphic Business, Co-Founder of DTRT, Marc Hansult, said the country could take full advantage of the US$2 trillion apparel market with the right mindset.

He said taking advantage of the industry would, however, require huge investments, stating that DTRT had, over the years, invested over US$50 million into its operations.

There are lots of opportunities, not just for Ghana but for the West African region.

The apparel industry is projected to be a US$2 trillion industry by 2025 and traditionally, most manufacturing is happening in China, Vietnam, Bangladesh and some countries in South Asia but there are so many production volumes that are looking for new homes right now and this creates tremendous opportunities for West Africa.

To maximise that opportunity, we need the right strategy, policy framework and investments. If it is done right, we are talking about an opportunity to create jobs and increase exports, he pointed out.

He noted that if the country could even take just two per cent of the global market share, over 100,000 jobs could be created.

Investments in equipment and training

Mr Hansult noted that the success of the industry would very much depend on investments in training and equipment, stating that a significant part of DTRTs US$50 million investment had gone into equipment, which needs to be continuously upgraded, and the training of people.

When we started, there was very limited experience here in the industry but we have trained over 10,000 people since 2014 and that is a big cost to the company, he stated.

He said the company had plans to make further investments, which include the building of a new factory that would allow it to train and hire about 6,000 people more.

So we are creating 6,000 new jobs through that investment. We are also planning to expand radically and start producing some of the raw materials for our production, he stated.

IFCs support

Backing Ghanas ambition to become a regional textile and apparel manufacturing hub, the private sector arm of the World Bank, the International Finance Corporation, last year, partnered with DTRT to support the expansion of the companys garment production capacity and create thousands of jobs.

Under the partnership, IFC will lend DTRT up to US$8 million, including US$4 million from IFCs account and US$4 million from IFC in its capacity as the implementing entity of the International Development Associations Private Sector Window.

Speaking in an interview with the Graphic Business, IFCs Senior Country Manager for Ghana, Kyle Kelhofer, said having West Africas largest apparel manufacturer in Ghana presents a huge opportunity for the country to attract a lot more global apparel manufacturers.

He said Ghanas good infrastructure, which includes a world-class seaport, reliable power, a trained workforce and a stable political environment, puts it in a position to become a global apparel hub.

Sharing his experience of living in both Vietnam and Bangladesh, he said he was a witness to how the industry had created millions of jobs and lifted people out of poverty.

I was in Bangladesh and Vietnam and I asked myself: Why cant we do this in Ghana? Because this is what we need to create nice and safe jobs here.

In Bangladesh, the industry has created 30 million jobs for a country of 106 million people, and because of this industry, which is like 95 per cent of the export in Bangladesh, the average income there is now higher than that of India, he stated.

He said the IFC was, therefore, committed to helping the industry grow and attract a lot more global brands.
Ghana Education News

GES interdicts Fijai SHS Headmaster over illegal fees

Graphic Online Education Apr - 18 - 2023 , 14:48

The Headmaster of Fijai Senior High School, Kenneth Agbomadze, has been interdicted by the Ghana Education Service (GES) over allegations of collecting illegal fees from students.

The interdiction, which takes immediate effect, was announced in a press statement issued by the GES on Tuesday, April 18, 2023.

According to the GES, Mr. Agbomadze is to hand over the administration of the school to the Western Regional Director of Education, pending the outcome of further investigation into the matter.

The GES has also set up an investigative committee to look into the allegations and has given the committee two weeks to submit its report to management.

The press statement signed by the Head of Public Relations at GES, Cassandra Twum Ampofo said the GES takes allegations of illegal fees collection "very seriously", and will not hesitate to take action against any staff found to be engaging in such acts.

"The GES has a zero-tolerance policy towards the collection of illegal fees from students, and we will not hesitate to take disciplinary action against any staff found to be involved in such acts," the release said.

The interdiction of Mr. Agbomadze comes at a time when the government is making efforts to improve access to education for all Ghanaians, and eliminate all forms of barriers to education.
See list and VIN of 95 suspected stolen luxury vehicles from US hiding in Ghana

Emelia Ennin Abbey Apr - 18 - 2023 , 11:40

The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has directed all vehicle dealers and individuals in possession of 95 luxury vehicles, suspected to have been stolen and smuggled into Ghana, which had been frozen through a court order, to hand them over to the office before May 31, 2023 or face the wrath of the law.

Persons in possession of the said vehicles have also been directed to report along with all necessary documents to EOCO.

After May 31, 2023, EOCO said it would take steps to confiscate the vehicles in accordance with the law if the persons in possession of the vehicles failed to respond to the directive.

EOCO in a statement said the vehicles were frozen by the Executive Director of EOCO, Commissioner of Police Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah and confirmed by the High Court in pursuant to section 33 of the EOCO Act, 2010 (Act 804).

Already, EOCO has identified the vehicles and the addresses of those in possession of the vehicles.

Background

In December, 2022 EOCO in a joint operation with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) of the United States of America (USA) and Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), in Canada carried out an intelligence led operation for the retrieval of various specifications of luxury vehicles suspected to have been stolen from the United States of America and Canada.

The exercise followed reports on the activity of some suspected criminals.

During the exercise officers of the participating agencies visited six garages in Dzorwulu, Dimples, North Kaneshie, East Legon, Accra central near the Movenpick Hotel, Dzorwulu roundabout near the Fiesta Royale Hotel and near the Trinity Theological Seminary.

At the end of the joint action 37 vehicles were retrieved from some garages in Accra and 10 persons were arrested during the exercise.

According to EOCO, the vehicles were part of about 400 vehicles believed to have been stolen from Canada and the United States of America (USA).

The luxury vehicles retrieved included BMW X7 and X5, Jeep Wrangler, Mercedes Benz S-class, Mercedes Benz GLE, Mercedes Benz G, Audi SS, Range Rover LNDR, Jonder Odyssey, Benz 5350, Honda Accord, Lexus RX, Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot and Acura RDX.

In February EOCO secured a court order authorising the seizure of vehicles suspected of being stolen and smuggled into Ghana.

The court order was also to restrain anyone from disposing of the vehicles.

Before the court order the office had seized 41 vehicles from various vehicle sales points.

Read also: How stolen vehicles from US end up in Ghana - Nat Geo investigation [VIDEO]

A few days ago, a documentary by Nat Geo shed more light on how stolen vehicles are shipped from the US to Ghana and how the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is altered to help prevent security operatives from detecting the vehicles are stolen.

The investigation by Mariana van Zeller for the National Geographic Channel exposes the syndicate of shipping some of the stolen vehicles to Ghana.

Sometimes, the VIN of a salvage vehicle bought at an auction is swapped with that of a clean vehicle stolen from the streets and this does not raise any red flags when leaving the system in the US.

The documentary highlights the activities of car thieves in the US, and how they collaborate with people in Ghana to get the stolen vehicles into the country.

It also talks about how people affiliated with the syndicate have amassed wealth as a result of engaging in the business. The investigative journalist speaks to sources and people involved in the US and follows it up with a trip to Accra, Ghana to speak to some of the people associated with the business and able to show a sample of a stolen vehicle - Mercedez Benz C250 - in the streets of Accra that is in a garage and being offered for sale. The investigation by Mariana van Zeller for the National Geographic Channel exposes the syndicate of shipping some of the stolen vehicles to Ghana. The documentary establishes that particular Mercedez Benz had a VIN swapped with a salvaged Mercedez. Some of the gang members who spoke to van Zeller explained to her how they undertake their activities and the structure of the international crime syndicate where cars stolen on the streets of America end up outside of the US and in places such as Ghana. Van Zeller travelled to Ghana to meet some of the local players including a hacker/black market trader and another person who handles the business aspect of the enterprise. The two gave the journalist insights into the local trading of stolen cars and how they are able to get the cars into the Ghanaian system without raising any red flag.

Mandate of EOCO

EOCO is a specialized agency established through the EOCO Act 2010 (Act 804) to monitor and investigate economic and organised crime and on the authority of the Attorney General prosecute offenders to recover the proceeds of crime.

As part of the functions of the Office, it co-operates with relevant foreign or international agencies in furtherance of its objectives.

Attached below is the list of the wanted vehicles with their modules and VIN
Gertrude Torkornoo pencilled as Chief Justice to replace Kwasi Anin Yeboah

Emmanuel Ebo Hawkson Apr - 18 - 2023 , 07:50

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is expected to nominate Justice Gertrude Araba Esabaa Torkornoo, a justice of the Supreme Court, for approval by Parliament as the next Chief Justice, multiple sources have revealed to the Daily Graphic.

According to the sources, the Council of State has already given the green light for Justice Torkornoos appointment and the President would soon forward her name to Parliament for approval, in accordance with Article 144(1) of the 1992 Constitution.

When approved by Parliament, Justice Torkornoo will replace Justice Kwasi Anin Yeboah, who retires as Chief Justice on May 24, 2023 when he reaches the mandatory retirement age of 70 for justices of the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court.

When she gets the nod from Parliament, the 60-year-old Justice Torkornoo will become the third female Chief Justice in the history of Ghana, following the footsteps of Justices Georgina Theodora Wood and Sophia Akuffo.

Justice Torkornoo will be President Akufo-Addos third appointment to the office of Chief Justice since he assumed office in January 2017.

...click this link for more details

In 2017, the President appointed Justice Akuffo to replace Justice Wood.

He, subsequently, appointed Justice Anin Yeboah in 2019 following the retirement of Justice Akuffo.

President Akufo-Addo will thus join President John Agyekum Kufuor as the only Presidents in the Fourth Republic to have appointed three Chief Justices during their tenure.

Front runners

A source with knowledge of the selection process told the Daily Graphic that three justices of the Supreme Court  Justices Torkornoo, Emmanuel Yonny Kulendi and Issifu Omoro Tanko  had been the front runners for the nomination.

According to the source, there had been serious lobbying for the three justices from different quarters, but the President decided to settle on Justice Torkornoo.

Although all those under consideration were competent and had the requisite acumen to serve the country in the high office of Chief Justice, the President, in his wisdom, decided to go with Justice Torkornoo, it said.

Powers of Chief Justice

The Chief Justice plays an integral role in the democratic dispensation of the country and is regarded as the chief judge of the country.

Apart from his or her judicial role as a member of the superior courts, the Constitution allows him or her to perform administrative duties pertaining to the Judiciary.

Per Article 125 (4) of the 1992 Constitution, the Chief Justice is the Head of the Judiciary and shall be responsible for the administration and supervision of the Judiciary.

The administrative and supervisory roles of the Chief Justice allow him or her to empanel judges for cases, take disciplinary actions against errant judges and officers of the Judiciary Service, including the empaneling of a committee to determine whether a justice of the Superior Court should be impeached from office.

The Chief Justice also administers the oaths of office and allegiance to the President-elect and the Vice-President-elect before they can assume office.

Article 144 (1) of the 1992 Constitution stipulates that the Chief Justice shall be appointed by the President, acting in consultation with the Council of State and with the approval of Parliament.

Who is Justice Torkornoo?

A native of Winneba in the Central Region, Justice Torkornoo was born in Cape Coast on September 11, 1962 and obtained her GCE (Ordinary Level) at the Wesley Girls Senior High School and the GCE (Advanced Level) at the Achimota School.

She is an alumnus of the University of Ghana and graduated from the Ghana School of Law in June 1986.

In 2001, she obtained a postgraduate diploma in International Law and Organisation from the International Institute of Social Studies (ISS) of the Erasmus University in The Netherlands and further graduated with an LLM in Intellectual Property Law from the Golden Gate University, USA, in 2011.

She also served as a volunteer at the FIDA Legal Aid Service and did an internship at Nabarro Nathanson in London.

She was a pupil associate at Fugar & Co, a law firm in Accra, before she returned in 1994 to become a leading partner in that firm.

From January 1997 to 2004, she was a Managing Partner at Sozo Law Consult.

Justice Torkornoo became a justice at the High Court from May 2004 to October 2012 and was appointed to the Court of Appeal from October 2012 to 2019, when she was elevated to the Supreme Court.

She was part of the seven-member panel of the highest court of the land that unanimously dismissed the 2020 Election petition filed by former President John Dramani Mahama challenging the 2020 election victory of President Akufo-Addo.

Some of the leadership positions she has held are Supervising Judge, Commercial Courts; Chair, Editorial Committee of Association of Magistrates and Judges; the Chief Editor for the development of Judicial Ethics Training Manual; Vice-Chair of the E-Justice Steering/Oversight Committee and Vice-Chair of the Internship and Clerkship Programme for the Judiciary.

She is a aculty Member and member of the Governing Board of the Judicial Training Institute.

Justice Torkornoo has also written a number of books, plays, academic essays, articles and presentations.
Ghana, Latvia must grow business, official relations

Donald Ato Dapatem Apr - 18 - 2023 , 07:24

The growing business relations between Ghanaian and Latvian entrepreneurs provide a stronger basis for a state-to-state collaboration, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has said.

He said the grounds had been laid for the Ghana and Latvia to work together to advance their business and official relations.

The President said this when the Latvian Foreign Minister, Edgars Rinkevics, paid a courtesy call on him at the Jubilee House in Accra yesterday.

Mr Rinkevics, who was led to the Presidency by his Ghanaian counterpart, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, is on an official visit to the country with a delegation of 17 captains of industry and other officials from Latvia.

He is the first Latvian Foreign Minister to visit Ghana.

President Akufo-Addo described the historic visit as one that had provided the grounds for a new relationship.

He expressed excitement at the fact that already the visit was bearing fruits through some engagements that had taken place between business people from both countries.

He noted that already Latvian companies were involved in the facilitation of Ghanas passport and airport formalities, among other things.

That, he said, was a basis for us to do a lot of things together.

He mentioned political and commercial relations as some of the areas where the two countries could advance collaboration.

Security

Touching on current armed disturbances around the Sahel, especially Burkina Faso, the President indicated that Ghana was preoccupied with developments in neighbouring countries where jihadist insurgents were causing mayhem.

He gave an assurance that Ghana was leaving no stone unturned to ensure that its borders and people were protected against the advances.

He added that Ghana was also working at the regional level to push back terrorist advances in West Africa, noting that those were major preoccupations for the country and welcomed the support of Latvia towards the Accra Initiative.

Improving relations

The Latvian Foreign Minister said the trip was to improve the excellent relations the two countries had established over the past five years with the first business forum.

Now we want to expand our bilateral and political relations within the United Nations framework and other international organisations to exchange views on some of the hot topics on the international agenda, he added.

He reiterated his countrys support for Ghanas initiative to fight terrorism and organised crime under the Accra Initiative.

The visiting minister said members of his delegation, who come from sectors including information technology, chemical, pharmaceutical and education, had already signed memoranda of understanding with their Ghanaian counterparts.
Traders demand apology from Deputy Speaker of Parliament over 'exploitation' remarks

Kweku Zurek Apr - 18 - 2023 , 12:29

The Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) has demanded an apology from the First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Joseph Osei-Owusu, after he accused them of exploiting Ghanaians and claimed they had no moral right to complain about taxes.

The Ghana Union of Traders Association issued a strongly-worded statement in response, labelling the Bekwai Member of Parliament (MP) as "arrogant, ignorant and disrespectful".

GUTA argued that traders are forced to sell products at high prices due to the multiple taxes imposed by the government.

We have listened to and read the unguarded statements made by no mean a person than the First Deputy Speaker of Parliament of the Republic of Ghana and demand an immediate retraction and unqualified apology to GUTA and all members of the business community, the statement said.

We condemn in no uncertain term the statement, and the sheer arrogance and complete ignorance exhibited on the genuine inputs GUTA made on those three taxes he mentioned.

What the MP said

Mr Osei-Owusu's remarks were made during an interview with Kumasi based Oyerepa TV and GUTA has called for the MP to retract his comment and issue an "unqualified apology" to all members of the business community.

Accusing the traders of dishonesty, Mr Osei-Owusu said the traders were inflating prices to make huge profits.

"They (the traders) are under-declaring, they are inflating the charges and making huge profits on any product," he said.
Hearing impaired Abigail wins Talented Kidz Season 14

Graphic.com.gh Apr - 18 - 2023 , 11:15

Seven-year-old hearing-impaired Abigail Adjiri beat stiff competition from six other contestants to win the ultimate title of Talented Kidz Season 14 at the weekend.

The 14th of the popular Ghanaian talent show came to an end at the Accra International Conference Centre after weeks of performances from gifted contestants all over Ghana.

Despite her hearing impairment, young Abigail sealed the perfect victory with her performance at the grand finale that wowed the judges, audience and viewers at home.

Her exceptional talent, week after week, earned her the admiration of viewers.

Abigail, a pupil of the Vitnaya Academy in Prampam, did not allow her disability to hinder her dreams as she was determined to succeed against all odds.

After being announced winner to thunderous applause and roars from the audience, Abigail took to the stage once again with victorious dance moves.

Throughout the competition, Abigail showcased her incredible talent by performing a variety of dance repertoire, from traditional Ghanaian music to popular international hits, and always managed to connect with the audience.

Abigails victory on TV3 Talented Kidz season 14 has also sent a message about inclusion and celebrating diversity with the audience heaping praises on the producers of the show for their foresight.

Thatness Kids Models were adjudged 1st-runners-up followed by MFC Dancers who came in as 2nd-runners-up while Rahman clinching the 3rd-runner-up position.

Aside from the ultimate title, Abigail received a cash prize of GH15,000, an educational tablet, and GH2,000 worth of products from the Title sponsor, Indomie.

Orielia Naa-Ami Quartey

A bundle of many talents, Orielia Naa-Ami Quartey participated in the eleventh edition of Talented Kidz in 2020 where came up as 3rd Runner-Up. The 12-year old who is a known singer, dancer, presenter and model, graciously lent her talents to the just ended 14th season of the show as co-host.

Oreilia who is in Junior High School aspires to become a journalist and musician in future.

Joelyn Essuman-Mensah and Orielia Naa-Ami Quartey

Joelyn Essuman-Mensah

As a recurring co-host of Talented Kidz, Joelyn Essuman-Mensah brought her presenting skills to life as she co-hosted the just ended 14th edition of TV3 Talented Kidz reality show.

The 14-year old Joelyn Essuman-Mensah participated in Talented Kids  Season 10 as a singer.

Currently in senior high school, she intends to keep developing her talents alongside schooling. She loves singing, reading, writing and acting and aspires to be a lawyer specializing in media law.
Investigations begin into toilet dormitory: GHANASCO authorities refute report

Mohammed Fugu Apr - 18 - 2023 , 07:31

A fact-finding mission, led by the Deputy Director-General of the Ghana Education Service (GES) in charge of Management Services, Stephen Kwaku Owusu, yesterday visited the Ghana Senior High School (GHANASCO) in Tamale, following reports of a toilet facility being converted into a dormitory to house some students of the school.

The visit was to assess the accommodation situation, as well as get firsthand information on the report of a toilet cubicle being used as a dormitory.

Over the weekend, a video which showed students sleeping in toilet cubicles went viral, causing outrage on social media and raising concerns over the safety and well-being of the students.

Investigations

Following the incident, the GES last Sunday directed the headmaster and the senior housemaster of the school to step aside to allow for investigations into the matter.

The GES, in a statement, expressed shock at the report and said it was unacceptable for students to sleep at such a place.

It said the school had excess capacity to even house an extra 300 students, with only 1,467 out of the 1,790 vacancies declared by the school being filled.

It further directed the Northern Regional Director of Education to investigate the matter and report back in two weeks.

Located at Kukuo, a suburb of the Tamale metropolis, the school is not fully fenced, resulting in some people trespassing the campus with impunity every day, a situation which has heightened insecurity in the school.

During the visit, the delegation interacted with staff and students of the school. They also assessed the dormitory facilities and the said toilet facility which was purported to have been used to house some students.

The Daily Graphic observed that there were a number of dormitories in the school which were not in use, as it currently runs a transitional track system. Some of the dormitories are not full to capacity and others are not in use at all.

For instance, a newly constructed GETFund dormitory block which has the capacity to house about 800 students is currently under-utilised.

Also, it was observed that the said toilet facility was uncompleted and had never been put to use, as had been reported in the video.

However, some chop boxes, mattresses, books and other personal belongings of the students were found in the cubicles of the facility.

Refuting claims

Meanwhile, the authorities of the school have refuted reports that some students were using toilet cubicles as dormitories.

According to the authorities, the widely
Possibility mindset necessary for development of Africa  Dr Bawumia

Daily Graphic Apr - 18 - 2023 , 07:48

THE Vice-President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has urged Africans to embrace the mindset of possibility to help accelerate the development of the continent.

He said Africa had not made the desired economic growth because for many years it had not broken the "shackles of the impossibility mindset.

"Our generation needs to break the shackles of the impossibility mindset and embrace the mindset of possibility.

It is time for us to figure out the best ways to be masters of our destiny, chart our own path and develop on our own terms. It is possible.

Africans had, for a long time, not believed in ourselves.

While African countries are politically free, we still have a mindset that is shackled by the experience of 500 years of slavery and colonialism," he added.

The Vice-President was speaking as the guest of honour at this years Africa Development Conference at the Harvard University in the US over the weekend.

The two-day event, which ended last Sunday, was on the theme: Reimagining Africa's growth on our terms.

Participants discussed matters relating to the growth of the African continent.

Human capital

On issues stunting the economic growth of the continent, Dr Bawumia mentioned the over-reliance on raw materials, instead of the development of human capital, the lack of effective systems, such as identity and property addressing systems, including huge financial exclusion and the manual delivery of public services, as some of the major contributory factors.

He also identified the lack of data and transparent systems as some of the factors negating the transformation of economies on the continent.

"The reality is that African countries have been trying to transform their economies without data and transparent systems, while governments are taking critical decisions without being informed by data," he said.

He, therefore, called on the people to embrace the Fourth Industrial Revolution to address those basic system challenges to break the impossibility mindset.

According to the Vice-President, "when the NPP government assumed office in 2017, we made the ambitious decision to address problems such as the lack of unique identity and address systems.

Our decision was to quickly transform our economy by leveraging technological innovations as a means to leapfrog the development process, overcome legacy problems and improve both economic and public sector governance.

We chose digitalisation as the vehicle and this is why it has become a major area of focus of our government.

If data is the new oil, digitalisation is the most efficient and cost-effective vehicle for generating the data," he added.



Biometric registration

Dr Bawumia also said that the introduction of a biometric national identification system in the country was a game-changer.

"More than 17 million people, representing over 80 per cent of the targeted adult population, have been enrolled onto a secure database.

With the Ghana Card, the identity of people (even dead people) can be established using their fingerprints.

This is one of the most transformational projects implemented under digitalisation.

We have also started a pilot and will likely roll out a nationwide system to provide national identification numbers for children at birth from June this year," he added.

GNPC

The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), Opoku-Ahweneeh Danquah, underscored the need for concerted action by African states to develop a strategy to meet the continents energy needs.

He observed that rather than the absence of policies, the major factor mitigating against a common energy strategy in Africa was the lack of political will to implement a coordinated continent-wide framework.

According to him, Ghana was one of the few countries south of the Sahara on track to achieving full access to electricity, including harnessing its natural gas resources to power homes and industries over and above what pertained in other African states.
Revive Tema Oil Refinery - Workers Union

Benjamin Xornam Glover Apr - 18 - 2023 , 11:04

The workers union of Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) has called on the government to as a matter of urgency to revive the company and save it from collapse.

The workers blamed the government for failing to ensure the availability of crude oil for the refinery to process.

Addressing journalists on Tuesday (April 18, 2023) after a durbar with the workers, the National Chairman of the General Transport Petroleum and Chemical Workers Union (GTPCWU), Bernard Owusu said the inability of the government, Board of Directors and Management to secure the much talked about partnership agreement has brought the refinery on its knees.

He said it was intriguing that the government was focusing on mobilising refined petroleum products into the country but cannot make similar arrangements for crude oil for TOR to refine.

more to follow...
KNUST midwifery department receives equipment from UNFPA

Enoch Darfah Frimpong Health Apr - 18 - 2023 , 11:02

The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has received equipment worth US$30,000 from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) for the Skills Laboratory of its School of Nursing and Midwifery.

The equipment include a cardiotoscopy machine, a multipurpose manual obstetrics bed, urine dilators, thermometers, birth stimulators, MVA kits and cervical dilation and effacement.

Receiving the equipment, the Vice-Chancellor of KNUST, Prof. Mrs. Rita Akosua Dickson noted that the School of Nursing and Midwifery has received support in various forms from the UNFPA over the years.

Collaboration

The support, she said, was appreciated as the university puts premium on collaboration with partners in its quest to prepare students for society.

Prof Dickson said the equipment will enable the department to provide the midwifery students with top-notch training and produce professionals with skills to assist women to give birth without losing their lives.

The Vice Chancellor announced that following the approval of the University Council, the nursing department, which is currently part of the School of Allied Sciences, will be upgraded to a full School of Nursing and Midwifery from the next academic year.

The Vice-Chancellor (3rd right) together with Dr. Emmily Naphambo (4th left), Dr. Barnabas Yeboah, (3rd left) Director, Nursing and Midwifery, MOH and members of the faculty of the School of Allied Sciences.

Transformative results

The Deputy Representative of UNFPA, Dr. Emmily Naphambo, who presented the items to the university, affirmed the commitment of the United Nations agency to support Ghana to prevent maternal deaths.

She said UNFPA works to promote sexual and reproductive health and to achieve the transformative results of zero maternal deaths, zero unmet need for family planning and zero tolerance for harmful traditional practices.

Dr. Naphambo added that the UNFPA will continue to support the university to train quality midwives for the country.

Capacity Building

The Director of Nursing and Midwifery of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Barnabas Yeboah also expressed the gratitude of the ministry to the UNFPA for its continuous support to the training of midwives in the country.

The UNFPA is one of our key partners in midwifery training, he said, adding that the Midwifery Department of the Nursing School at KNUST has been a beneficiary of the partnership.

He further said that the UNFPA has supported the midwifery department in various ways, including assisting in the development of the training curricula.

Dr. Barnabas said the MOH had identified the need to build the capacity of faculty members in midwifery training institutions to turn out quality professionals.

On her part, the Dean of the School of Nursing and Midwifery, KNUST, Prof. Victoria Bam indicated that the partnership with UNFPA has been impactful in the training of the students.

She expressed the hope that the partnership will be strengthened to further improve on the quality of midwives produced by the school.
'Do your politics and allow us to do our police work' - IGP to NPP, NDC

Enoch Darfah Frimpong Politics Apr - 18 - 2023 , 07:48

The Police Administration has told the two main political parties, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to concentrate on their politicking and allow the police to also concentrate on its policing work.

At a meeting on Monday (April 17, 2023) with the leadership of both political parties in attendance, they were told by the police that with a number of policing interventions in place, "they should do their politics and allow the Police to do policing."

Petition

The NDC and the NPP had petitioned the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service over alleged inciteful comments made by leading members of both parties.

While the NPP called for the arrest, investigation and prosecution of former President John Dramani Mahama and the National Chairman of the NDC, Johnson Asiedu Nketiah for what the party described as treasonable and offensive conduct , the NDC petitioned the CID to, with immediate effect, arrest and prosecute the Minister of Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong, for making comments to the party said had the potential to subvert the will of the people of Ghana in the 2024 elections.

The NPP made the call in a petition signed by the National Organiser of the party, Henry Nana Boakye, and addressed to the Director-General of the CID of the GPS.

The NDCs petition was signed by the partys Director of Legal Affairs, Abraham Amaliba, which alleged that Mr Acheampong, who is also the Member of Parliament (MP) for the Abetifi Constituency, in addressing NPP supporters at Kwahu Mpraeso, said the NPP would never hand over power to the NDC and would use any means to remain in power beyond the 2024 general election.

Police meeting and message

The message from the police and the invitation to the meeting by the Inspector General of Police (IGP) followed a petition by the two parties

In a statement issued after the meeting, the police explained that at the meeting, the leadership of the two political parties were commended for availing themselves and contributing to the success of the meeting, "we would like to call on Ghanaians to help us in our effort to build an independent Police Service which will serve the greater good of the Ghanaian people and not the interest of any individual or group of people."

"Once again, we wish to assure the public that we remain committed to ensuring peace, security, law and order in the country at all times including before, during and after all elections in the country."
Magna has been awarded a contract to manufacture an all-new INEOS Automotive electric off-road vehicle, expected to start production in Graz, Austria in 2026. In addition to manufacturing, Magna will also be responsible for the engineering of the complete vehicle.

Smaller than the INEOS Grenadier, this all-new battery electric model will deliver world-class off-road capability, without compromising on-road comfort or performance, INEOS said. Part of the development process for this new 4X4 will include a rigorous testing program on Austrias Schockl mountain, which is close to Magna's complete vehicle assembly facility.





Magna Graz facility in Graz, Austria

This new electric vehicle adds nicely to our line-up in Austria and showcases our flexibility in producing a range of vehicles from ICE-based to fully electric. Roland Prettner, Interim President, Magna Complete Vehicles

Magna started working with INEOS Automotive in 2018 on complete vehicle engineering services ahead of the launch of the companys first 4X4, the Grenadier.





INEOS Grenadier is available as a two-seat and a five-seat Utility Wagon, and a five-seat Station Wagon.

Magna has provided complete vehicle services to global automakers for decades. The company has produced more than four million vehicles including different models for both traditional automakers and new entrants from its facilities in Graz, Austria, and Zhenjiang, China (a joint venture with BJEV).
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Abilis, the nonprofit providing services and supports for more than 800 individuals with special needs and their families, has opened its application process for the Peter Bloomer Citizenship Award for graduating middle and high school students, the organization announced.

The award, established 36 years ago, is presented to a graduating student who demonstrates an outstanding level of sensitivity towards those with disabilities through leadership, involvement and participation in activities that benefit citizens with disabilities.

Nominations are due to Abilis by May 15; winners will be announced at the Abilis Annual Meeting on June 7 at the First Presbyterian Church in Greenwich. The application is available at www.abilis.us.

Peter Bloomer was a student who received special education services in Greenwich. The award was created as a tribute to him and those who helped him by honoring students for their leadership, involvement and participation in activities with those with disabilities. Over the years, Abilis has presented more than $60,000 in scholarships and awards with the Peter Bloomer Citizenship Award.

A Selection Committee appointed by the Abilis CEO/president will review candidates and select one or more recipients for the award. The award consists of a certificate and money.

Founded in 1951, Abilis provides meaningful support to the community in Darien, Greenwich, New Canaan, Norwalk, Stamford, Westport and Wilton.

Greenwich resident, nurse writes first book

Greenwich resident Robin Bennett Kanarek has written her first book, based on her experiences with palliative care.

Kanarek was a registered nurse working with patients suffering from chronic medical conditions when her 10-year-old son, David, was diagnosed with leukemia. As he endured grueling treatments, Kanarek said she realized how often medical professionals overlook critical psychological, emotional and spiritual support for people with life-threatening illnesses. Her experience prompted her to write "Living Well with a Serious Illness," the culmination of decades of her work to advance the field of palliative care.

"Living Well with a Serious Illness," released April 4 from Johns Hopkins University Press, is a practical guide for understanding how palliative care can improve quality of life for patients and their caregivers. Although it is often associated with hospice and end-of-life planning, Kanarek argues for a more expanded definition that incorporates palliative care earlier in patients journeys.

In addition to her roles as a mother, nurse and palliative care advocate, Kanarek serves as president of the Kanarek Family Foundation. KFFs mission is to improve the quality of life for those affected by serious life-threatening conditions through promoting, integrating and educating the medical industry and the public about palliative and supportive care in all areas of health care. To date, grants from KFF have resulted in educational and training programs at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, Fairfield Universitys Egan School of Nursing, George Washington University and the Institute for Spirituality & Health as well as the creation of the Kanarek Center for Palliative Care at Fairfield University.

"Living Well with a Serious Illness" is available on Amazon. Proceeds from the book will be used to continue to improve palliative care and to honor David.

GHS student's essay has him headed to Rome

Greenwich High School senior James Chang won the Paideia Institute High School Essay Contest, which has a grand prize of a full scholarship to the travel program Living Latin in Rome. He will be spending two weeks in Rome with a group of high school Latin enthusiasts and Latin professors.

This year's essay contest had the following topic: "In the Odyssey, Odysseus summons the shades from the underworld and listens to the tales of the dead. If you could get a chance to hear the stories of one, two or three people from Ancient Greece or Rome, asking them whatever questions you wished, whom would you choose and why?"

Chang wrote about one of his favorite poets, Catullus.

The Paideia Institute for Humanistic Studies is an educational organization dedicated to promoting the studying and learning of the classics. The Institute focuses heavily on Ancient Roman and Ancient Greek languages and literature, and hosts events, online programs and travel programs around the world.

Chang's essay will be published in the online magazine "In Medias Res."
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BELFAST, Northern Ireland (AP)  Former U.S. President Bill Clinton said Tuesday he was optimistic that one of Northern Irelands main political parties would soon end a boycott that has kept the regional government on ice for more than a year.

Clinton said he had met with Democratic Unionist Party leader Jeffrey Donaldson on Monday, and I left that meeting more optimistic than I entered it.

Clinton is in Belfast this week to mark 25 years since the Good Friday Agreement ended decades of sectarian bloodshed. The deal established a Northern Ireland government with power shared between British unionist and Irish nationalist parties.

The DUP walked out more than a year ago to protest post-Brexit trade rules that imposed a customs border between Northern Ireland and the rest of the U.K. It has refused to return, despite a deal reached by the U.K. and the EU in February to remove many of the border checks.

Clinton said the deal, known as the Windsor Framework, had gone a long way to resolving the political impasse.

So I expect that, in the not too distant future, the barriers to bringing up the government again will be removed, he told the BBC. Because everybody knows that economically, socially and politically, they would be worse off if they packed it in over the current level of disagreement.

U.K. Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris also urged the DUP to go back into government, saying those who valued Northern Irelands place in the United Kingdom should put the union first, restore the devolved institutions and get on with the job of delivering for the people of Northern Ireland.

The biggest threat to Northern Irelands place in the union is failing to deliver on these priorities, he told a Good Friday Agreement commemoration conference in Belfast.

The political impasse has left Northern Irelands civil servants running a skeleton caretaker government, with no politicians in place to make big decisions amid a cost-of-living crisis and a creaking public health service.

The other parties in the Northern Ireland Assembly have expressed frustration, but Donaldson said Tuesday that his party would not be browbeaten into submission."

The great and the good can lecture us all they want for a cheap round of applause but it wont change the political reality, he wrote on Twitter, adding: "Berating unionists wont solve the problem."

Doug Beattie, leader of the smaller Ulster Unionist Party, warned that putting too much pressure on the DUP would be counterproductive.

If you try and batter people  they just go to their trenches and they dig in," he told reporters.

But Beattie said he was confident the government would be restored.

Im in no doubt whatsoever that the DUP is going to go back into the executive," he said. "Id put money on it. I would sell my house on it. Im telling you, they are going back in. But its all about when.
Apple announced a Savings feature for Apple Card owners over six months ago, but it's only now that he feature is finally live. The Savings account will offer a 4.15% APY (Annual Percentage Yield) for all Apple Card clients in the United States, thanks to a partnership with Goldman Sachs.

The rate is over 10 times the national average, Apple revealed. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation website reveals the rate across the United States is 0.37% as of March 2023.



Apple Card features

Previously the company offered Daily Cash - a cashback program. Users who pay with Apple Card get back 1% on all purchases, 2% if they are through Apple Pay, and 3% on money spent at the Apple Store and some partners like Uber or T-Mobile.

The Savings account has no fees, minimum deposits, or minimum balance requirements. However, to have an Apple Card, you still have to apply and get the approval for it.

Source
The Xiaomi 13 and Xiaomi 13 Pro arrived in China in December, followed by a global unveiling at MWC in February. Now it's time for the most premium member of the flagship series to stand in the spotlight.

The Xiaomi 13 Ultra will be introduced today, and the live stream begins at 7PM Beijing time, which is noon in London and 4:30 PM in India.

The Xiaomi 13 Ultra will have a new Leica Vario-Summicron lens, and the main shooter will bring the 50MP 1" Sony IMX989 sensor. The other three cameras have 50MP IMX858 imagers - still large and promising of a very capable setup.

The back of the phone will keep the huge circular island from the 12S Ultra, while the front will be a new C7 LTPO OLED panel developed jointly by Xiaomi and China Star. It will have 1,440p resolution and a maximum peak brightness of 2,600 nits.

We also expect to see the new Xiaomi Band 8 and the Pad 6 tablet announced at the event.
A 39-year-old man with a criminal record on Guam and in Washington state has been charged with criminal sexual conduct, criminal trespass and harassment in separate cases involving several women in Hagat over the past few months, according to a magistrates complaint filed in Superior Court.

On April 11, a woman told police that sometime in March, she was walking out of her bathroom when she noticed all the lights were off in her residence. She said Paris Christian Reyes Sharpe grabbed her from behind, covered her nose and mouth and ordered her not to scream, according to the complaint.

The woman said she was crying and told Sharpe she couldnt breathe, and he pushed her against a wall and raped her, the complaint stated. The woman was shaking and crying during her interview with police.

On Feb. 11, another woman in the village told police that she woke up early that morning and saw Sharpe standing outside her bedroom window, staring at her. She said she yelled at Sharpe, and he asked to use the phone. She repeatedly told him to leave. Eventually, he walked to a neighbors house, the complaint stated.

When the woman walked out of her house, she found Sharpe in the driveway, and he asked to use her phone. She told him she was calling the police.

At 5 a.m. Sunday, a teen girl awoke to find Sharpe massaging her back, and she then felt his body pressing and rubbing against her, the complaint stated. Sharpe left the residence, but returned at 2 a.m. the next day, when he began banging on the doors and windows. The occupants called the police.

Sharpe was charged with third-degree criminal sexual conduct as a second-degree felony in connection with the March assault, two counts of criminal trespass as petty misdemeanors and harassment as a petty misdemeanor.

According to documents filed by the Office of the Attorney General, Sharpe has previous convictions on Guam for terrorizing, robbery, theft, reckless conduct, drug possession and unauthorized use of a motor vehicle.

He has convictions in Washington state for drug possession, arson, reckless burning, endangerment and theft, according to court documents.
The Truman Scholarship has been awarded to a University of Guam student this year, the 20th time a UOG student has received the honor.

Christian Gyles Ramos, a first-generation college student, received the prestigious scholarship from the Truman Foundation. The award helps students who want to serve as public leaders.

Ramos said the application process was a lot for him to take in, but he decided to complete it and submit it.

Ramos is not only getting a prestigious award, but he is also getting financial help for himself and his family.

Coming to UOG or even to pursue my higher education was never an option for me before. There were a lot of struggles and challenges that my family had to go through, said Ramos.

Ramos grew up in a low-income household of nine siblings, and thought going straight into the workforce was his only choice.

For many, pursuing higher education may be difficult, or not even an option.

With the high cost of living and the continuous rise in expenses, the idea of college is getting further out of reach for many young people.

For some, it is not even considered a possibility.

The University of Guam has seen a drop in student enrollment over the last few years. Classes are struggling to fill seats, and some courses have fewer than five students.

For students trying to work their way through school, its almost impossible to balance a full-time job while also attending classes.

Meanwhile, living on a job that pays minimum wage is a struggle without adding the financial burden of higher education.

Fortunately, financial aid is offered to students.

Besides scholarships, which sometimes have very specific qualifications, federal student aid is available. Applying for student aid can be a great help for those in low-income households.

Guam Community College is currently offering workshops to assist in filling out financial aid applications for incoming students.

Everyone should pursue their dreams for the future, whether or not those dreams involve higher education. However, for those who feel that college is beyond their financial reach, help is available. Dont hesitate to reach out and ask.
Volunteers from the community to assist senior citizens with Medicare are being sought by the Department of Public Health and Social Services.

Residents can be trained to help the islands manamko access and navigate Medicare, the federal health insurance program for those 65 and older.

Public Healths Division of Senior Citizens this week is holding its annual Medicare training for community members wishing to be volunteers and representatives from hospitals, clinics and insurance companies at the Hyatt Regency Guam.

Joseph Borja, 77 from Talofofo attended to learn from experts on Medicaid issues like coverage for those with disabilities, military veterans, how combined Medicare and Medicaid coverage works and other topics.

There are two sides to my being here. One is for my benefit to learn more about the program and also to help my fellow manamko, said Borja.

Those interested can still become volunteers even if they missed the workshops this week, said Chad Palomo, senior citizens assistant administrator for the Division of Senior Citizens at Public Health.

They help by providing free one-on-one counseling appointments to answer any questions a client has.

Seniors can be advised on billing concerns, coordination of benefits, information on costs for different premiums and assistance with phone calls to the national Medicare office or clinics on island.

We also assist with fraud, abuse and errors of Medicare. If someone thinks there was fraudulent activity, they were given a medical service they didnt need or were overcharged, our office can assist, said Palomo.

Volunteers also participate in outreach events in the community and disseminate program data for presentations.

People of all ages and walks of life are welcome to be volunteers, however, Palomo said they prefer those who dont have time commitments during the day. The normal counseling days for clients are Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 8 a.m.-noon.

As a government of Guam job, any volunteer is required to submit an application, a police and court clearance and a TB test.

All fees for paperwork and clearances are waived and there is no cost to being a volunteer.

Both potential volunteers and senior citizens looking to be connected with a volunteer are encouraged to contact Public Health by calling 671-735-7415/ 7421 or sending an email to biba.seniorcitizens@dphss.guam.gov.
A visitors Instagram photos of a beautiful white sandy beach or a unique attraction tend to drive other people to also vacation on Guam, but Guam Visitors Bureau officials said tourists expectations need to be met once they get to the island.

Arrivals to Guam reached 314,843 for the first half of fiscal 2023, or from Oct. 1 to March 31, based on preliminary GVB data.

This is less than half of GVBs revised full-year forecast of 670,000, although the bureau expects a last-quarter boost in 2023 tourism, to be followed by a 2024 forecast of 900,000 to 1.1 million, or about 70% of pre-pandemic 2019 arrivals of 1.6 million.

During recent GVB board of directors meetings and legislative hearings, tourism officials gave an overview of how the bureau has been keeping up with post-pandemic travel preferences and trends.

For example, while Gen Z and millennials are not big spenders when they travel, their Instagram posts open up the travel doors for the older demographics who have more money to spend.

They are the gateway generation in terms of opening up bookings to other demographics, GVB Vice President Gerry Perez said.

GVB has been bringing in social media influencers with large Instagram or Tik Tok followers, hoping their online posts will inspire others to book flights to Guam. This complements GVB managements travels to Korea, Japan and other countries to promote Guam as a destination.

Perez told the board and senators on multiple occasions that the visitor experience post-COVID-19 is creating a different customer profile. For the most part, he said, a lot of the tourism market-driven activities are being replaced by social media and self-generated interest in destinations.

So what we need to do, as with all destinations, is improving more the destination appeal so that theres credibility in the social media content, so simple things like delivering the promised experience, products and service, maintaining authenticity, cultural authenticity, local cuisine  these are issues that are becoming more and more important to destinations now than marketing, Perez said.

During an April 13 board meeting, Perez shared the results of an American Express global travel trends survey showing that 52% of the respondents planned more travel in 2023 than the prior year, and that Gen Z and millennials desire dream vacation over luxury goods.

Korean arrivals are leading Guams travel industry recovery, but GVB is bullish about the Japanese markets return in bigger numbers in the last quarter of fiscal 2023 after Japan reclassifies COVID-19 as a regular flu by May 8, and therefore encourages more Japanese to travel abroad.

What tourists do on Guam

The March 2023 arrivals of 65,599 represent 45% of March 2019 arrivals from all markets, GVB data shows. But its much more than the 9,401 arrivals to Guam in March 2022, showing that the local tourism industry is on its way to recovery.

Perez shared with the GVB board the first Korean visitors exit interview results since the pandemic hit, showing that 22% of Korean tourists visited historic sites, particularly those linked to World War II, followed by 20% who visited the night market, and 14% who tried local food.

Only 2% visited archaeological sites, and Perez said Guam might need to do a better job highlighting some of these sites. An archaeological site means a place where evidence of past activity is preserved, which in Guams case may be areas where there are preserved latte stones.

Of the surveyed Korean tourists, 52% said theyre first-time travelers to Guam, and 48% said theyre repeat visitors.

Perez said this speaks on the issue of needing to clean up Guam and have more attractions because more and more of our tourists are traveling around the island and not just on Tumon Bay.

GVB has been working on its one village, one attraction project meant to develop in each of the 19 villages a unique tourism offering to expand visitors and residents experiences.

The concept replaces the Ypao cultural smart park that received strong criticism from the public, and was originally looking at $20 million in federal American Rescue Plan funding.

Good and bad

The good news is that 58% of the surveyed Korean tourists to Guam from October to December said their expectations were met, and 33% said their travel exceeded their expectations, Perez said.

Only 9% said their expectations were not met, the survey results showed.

Guams nice beaches and ocean received positive comments at 32%, Perez said. Guam as a place of relaxation and its beautiful nature also earned good reviews, at 17% and 13%, respectively.

But the negative reviews about Guam from the surveyed Korean tourists, according to Perez, included it being an expensive place, its food, and that theres little to do.

Board members asked for specific comments about Guams prices and food, for example. Research firm Anthology Research provided a listing of the raw responses from surveyed Korean tourists, including the need to maintain roads and facilities, and develop tourist products.

Compared to other travel destinations, the resort fee is expensive, but the facilities and services are worse, according to tourists comments. They also commented on expensive taxi services.

As for food-specific comments, the surveyed tourists commented that Hamburgers, pizza, chicken, etc. are not Guams traditional foods, food is too salty and that Guam needs high-quality food.

Surveyed tourists also complained about compulsory tipping in some Guam restaurants and that tips shouldnt be asked outright.

Perez also said that the average on-island spending, based on the exit survey, is $1,146.72 per Korean visitor.

In terms of where else Korean tourists spent their money while on Guam, the survey showed most tourists shopped at ABC Stores, Kmart, Micronesia Mall, Guam Premier Outlets, Ross Dress for Less and Duty Free Shop, while second-tier shopping destinations included Macys, The Plaza, JP Store and Tumon Sands Plaza, the survey results showed.

The most popular attractions among Korean tourists, based on pre-paid arrangements, included the Two Lovers Point at 47%, the night market at 24%, Fish Eye Marine Park at 16%, and the Guam Museum at 2%.

Digital world

Of the surveyed Korean tourists, 90% said they were not part of a group travel, 56% said they booked directly with hotels and airlines, and 20% booked through travel agents.

Perez said the internet and social media were the main sources of information about Guam, at 76% and 31%, among the surveyed Korean tourists, followed by 34% from prior trips, and 27% from friends recommendations.

When theyre already on Guam, 73% of the information they get is from the internet and 53% from social media, 19% from hotel staff and another 10% from taxi drivers, Perez said.

Again this reinforces what weve been saying over and over, increasingly the digitized environment is very important to us, Perez said.

GVB officials talked about the bureau taking over the management of certain parks and attractions, to be able to provide a better tourist experience.

But GVB Board Chairman George Chiu cautioned against taking in additional responsibility that the bureau may not be able to sustain.

Be careful what we wish for. We ask to do something, we better do it right, thats all Im saying. I dont want to be held responsible, saying were supposed to be responsible for cleaning the parks, and then its not clean. We bite off more than we can chew because our job is to bring in more tourists, right? he said.

Internal conflicts

For more than a year, GVB management and board members have been embroiled in internal leadership conflicts, even as tourism recovery is still less than half of pre-pandemic levels.

At a roundtable hearing on April 15, small tourism business representative David Tydingco said they commend the decision to try to make the GVB bylaws in sync with the law that created GVB, but they also said 25% to 30% of small businesses arent there anymore and others are still hanging by a shoestring.

And the hardest hit group are the attractions, because they need people in there, and local business is not gonna sustain them, unlike other businesses, Tydingco, of The Valley of the Latte cultural park, said.

Theres a push to extend financial aid to cultural attractions and other tourism-related businesses to help them keep their employees and remain open, especially with tourism expected to pick up in the weeks ahead.




Haiti - News : Zapping...





B>A police officer killed

Sunday, April 16, 2023, individuals shot and killed police officer Samuel Francois (27th promotion) in the Duval area (Croix-des-Bouquets), as he was going to work, confirmed the National Union of Haitian Police Officers (SYNAPOHA). According to the testimony of residents, it would be men known to the "400 mawozo" gang who murdered the policeman.



Gonaives : the Director of the DGI kidnapped

On Monday April 17, 2023, armed individuals kidnapped from La Croix Perisse (commune of Estere, Artibonite Dept.), Fleurinord P. Antoine, Director of the the Directorate General of Taxes (DGI) in Gonaives. The "Kokorat San Ras" gang could be behind this kidnapping.



Alleged police killer arrested

Yvents Stephen Dorzilmas Marcel, (27), a repeat offender known to the police, was arrested by the police in the town of Hinche. This active member of the "Kokorat San Ras" gang operating in the Artibonite and North-West department is suspected of involvement in the assassination of several police officers.



Passports : 3 people injured by bullets

Monday, April 17, 2023 at the office of the Center for the Reception and Delivery of Identity Documents (CRLDI) in Gonaives, 3 people, including a woman, were shot and injured following altercations between an agent of the Departmental Unit for Maintenance of the Order (UDMO) and people on site.



The police occupy the territory of "Ti Makak"

For more than a week, police officers from elite units of the National Police of Haiti have settled in the territory of the gang leader, Joselito Petit Homme alias "Ti Makak" who allegedly fled the area. More than a dozen bandits were fatally injured during various clashes and more than a dozen hostages released, indicated Lionel Lazare, coordinator of the National Union of Haitian Police Officers (SYNAPOHA).



CARICOM continues to assess how to respond

At a post-cabinet press briefing at the Jamaican Prime Minister's office, Foreign Minister Kamina Johnson-Smith said the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) was still assessing how best to intervene to help restore stability in Haiti.



HL/ HaitiLibre


















Published on 2023/04/17 | Source

Actress Kim Hyun-joo boasted a special relationship with Kwon Nara.

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Recently, Kim Hyun-joo certified a coffee truck she received from actors Kim Beom and Kwon Nara on her Instagram, thanking them for it.

The released photo shows a coffee truck sent by Kim Beom and Kwon Nara to the scene of the Netflix drama "The Bequeathed" to show support for Ryu Kyung-soo.

Kim Beom said, "I sent it because of Ryu Kyung-soo. Director Min Hong-nam and Director Yeon Sang-ho. All the staff members of the drama "The Bequeathed" including Hyun-joo. I support you all", he said, cheering for Kim Hyun-joo, who appeared in "Boys over Flowers" in the past.

Kwon Nara also said, "Kim Hyun-joo, I... I... I... I...love you", she said, drawing attention as they are known to have never met.

On the other hand, "The Bequeathed" is a story about sinister things happening and the secrets of the family are revealed as they inherit the mountain left after the death of their father's brother, who they even forgot existed, and stars Kim Hyun-joo, Park Hee-soon, Park Byung-eun, and Ryu Kyung-soo.
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Published on 2023/04/17 | Source

Actor Oh Jung-se has been nominated for the lead role in the drama "Mr. Plankton".

Advertisement

An official from the agency Frein TPC told Expo News on the 17th, "Oh Jung-se has received an offer to appear in the drama "Mr. Plankton" and is considering it".

"Mr. Plankton" is a road variety romantic comedy genre. It depicts the journey of a man who had to choose the life of a wanderer because no one loved him or held him.

In the drama, Oh Jung-se plays the role of Eo Heung, an oriental medical doctor who is the eighteenth eldest grandson of the Poong-yeong Eo family Chunghae-Gongpa and the 5th reader of the historic Jongga family. He is the best groom in the Joseon Dynasty, but in this era, he is a frustrating character.

"Mr. Plankton" is discussing the formation of OTT with a total of ten episodes. Director Hong Jong-chan, who directed "Juvenile Justice" and writer Jo Yong of "It's Okay to Not Be Okay" joined forces. Woo Do-hwan and Lee Yoo-mi will play the main characters.
BOONE, NC  Joining together for only the second time in a precedent-setting partnership, the Appalachian Theatre of the High Country (ATHC), Boone Sunrise Rotary, and the Jazz Studies Program at Appalachian State University proudly announce the headliners for the 2023 High Country Jazz Festival taking place in Boone and Blowing Rock, North Carolina, from June 9 through 11, 2023. Tickets are now on sale via the website: www.highcountryjazzfestival.org

Presented by Mast General Store with additional support from Explore Boone and Hampton Inn & Suites, the High Country Jazz Festival is a collaborative project that aims to host exceptional and engaging jazz experiences for local residents and regional audiences with proceeds to support arts, education, and civic programs that enrich our High Country home.

Headliner performances by The Legendary Count Basie Orchestra and the Emmet Cohen Trio take place in the historic Appalachian Theatre in Boone with the Reggie Buie Group performing outdoors under a tent at the Chetola Resort in Blowing Rock. Additional festival affiliated events will be announced shortly, along with additional sponsors and host locations, including outdoor concerts, late night jams, jazz lunches, and a popular jazz-themed film.

Keith Martin and Todd Wright are co-chairs of the 2023 Festival and members of the leadership team planning the celebration. The inaugural festival in 2022 was a success even before its first concert took place, said Martin. We knew we had a hit on our hands when asked about dates for next year at our opening event. That success was due primarily to the collective wisdom and consolidated efforts by three separate entities who came together to create the festival: The Appalachian Theatre, Boone Sunrise Rotary Club, and the Jazz Studies Program at Appalachian State University. The entire group is back for an encore event this year.

Martin, who also chairs the App Theatre board, said The common denominator behind every major cultural event is a dynamic visionary; with the High Country Jazz Festival, our quixotic driving force was  and is  Todd Wright, who has been talking about creating such an event for over a decade.

All we needed for this dream to become a reality was an anchor venue, said Wright, and the Appalachian Theatre has proven to be the perfect facility to host the High Country Jazz Festival. Since last August, I have been working with App Theatre Executive Director Suzanne Livesay to develop a short list of headliners to anchor the 2023 Festival. Fortunately, we were able to engage the groups at the very top of our list.

The Legendary Count Basie Orchestra, directed by Scotty Barnhart, with guest vocalist Carmen Bradford, will perform at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, June 9 at the Appalachian Theatre. In the history of jazz music, there is only one bandleader that has the distinction of having his orchestra still performing sold out concerts all over the world, with members personally chosen by him, for over 30 years after his passing. Pianist and bandleader William James Count Basie was  and still is  an American institution that personifies the grandeur and excellence of Jazz. The Count Basie Orchestra, today directed by Scotty Barnhart, has won every respected jazz poll in the world at least once, captured 18 Grammy Awards, performed for kings, queens, and other world royalty, appeared in several movies, television shows, at every preeminent jazz festival and major concert hall in the world.

Wright asked, What can you say about Basie that hasnt already been said? He was out of Kansas City in the 1920s and playing silent movies until being hired as a second pianist for the Bennie Moten Orchestra before starting his own group. If you listen closely to their All American Rhythm Section, youll hear Bill Basie at the piano, Freddie Green on guitar, Walter Page on bass, and Jo Jones on drums. They could swing like crazy and drove audience members wild with their virtuosity musicianship, performing with legends such as Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, and Sarah Vaughan. And now the tradition continues.

The Emmet Cohen Trio takes to the App Theatre stage at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 10. Cohen is an internationally acclaimed jazz artist and winner of the 2019 American Pianists Award. He appears regularly with jazz greats Benny Golson, Tootie Heath, and Lea DeLaria among others. During the 2020 pandemic lockdown, he gained fame and revived the jazz genre with weekly live-streamed performances featuring a wide range of jazz works. Cohen has appeared in varied international jazz events, including the Newport, Monterey, Detroit, North Sea, Bern, Edinburgh, and Jerusalem jazz festivals, as well as the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival and the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics in Russia. He performed at the Village Vanguard, the Blue Note, Dizzys Club Coca-Cola, Birdland, Jazz Standard, Londons Ronnie Scotts, Jazzhaus Montmartre in Copenhagen, Lincoln Centers Rose Hall, the Cotton Club in Tokyo, and the Kennedy Center.

Surprisingly, the Emmet Cohen Trio will be making their High Country debut during our 23 Festival, said Wright. This incredibly talented trio of musicians are all in their 30s and will give our audiences a chance to hear what theyve been missing from the younger crowd.

At 5:30 p.m. on Sunday afternoon, June 11, The Reggie Buie Group, will perform under the tent at Chetola Resort in Blowing Rock. A resident of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Buie began his musical journey at the American Conservatory of Music in Chicago. From there, he attended Florida A&M and was a member of the famed Marching 100. Buie earned both writing and recording credits on the national level while living in Miami. Now, the Reggie Buie Group is a regular on stage in Greensboro, Charlotte, and Raleigh swinging between smooth jazz and standards. His groups versatility and ability to move effortlessly between soft background music, performing jazz standards, music for dancing, or delivering passionate jazz performances and improvisation are hallmarks of their live concerts.

Wright said, The Reggie Buie Group offers something a little different, a smooth jazz sound that showcases these Winston-Salem based artists for High Country Jazz audiences. Were expecting this to be a memorable event.

Todd and I both want to give a shout out to the 2023 leadership team who has been working since last June to make this years High Country Jazz Festival even bigger and better, said Martin. These dedicated volunteers include John Cooper, Mark Freed, Sali Gill-Johnson, Paige Henderson, Brian Irving, David Jackson, Suzanne Livesay, Keith Martin, Sheri Moretz, Denise Ringler, Kathy Scott, Jim Street, and Wright Tilley. None of this would have been possible without their collaborative efforts.

The High Country Jazz Festival is excited to offer an all-event ticket, which includes admission to all three headliner performances. There are two options: Premier ($110, including taxes and fees, with prime seating for Appalachian Theatre performances) and Regular ($95, including taxes and fees). To purchase tickets, please visit the festivals official website at www.highcountryjazzfestival.org.

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(HedgeCo.Net) The Securities and Exchange Commission has charged crypto asset trading platform Bittrex, Inc. and its co-founder and former CEO William Shihara for operating an unregistered national securities exchange, broker, and clearing agency. The SEC also charged Bittrex, Inc.s foreign affiliate, Bittrex Global GmbH, for failing to register as a national securities exchange in connection with its operation of a single shared order book along with Bittrex.

Since at least 2014, Bittrex has held itself out as a platform that facilitated buying and selling of crypto assets that the SECs complaint alleges were offered and sold as securities. From 2017 through 2022, Bittrex earned at least $1.3 billion in revenues from, among other things, transaction fees from investors, including U.S. investors, while servicing them as a broker, exchange, and clearing agency without registering any of these activities with the Commission.

The complaint further alleges that Bittrex and Shihara, who was the companys CEO from 2014 to 2019, coordinated with issuers who sought to have their crypto asset made available for trading on Bittrexs platform to first delete from public channels certain problematic statements that Shihara believed would lead a regulator, such as the SEC, to investigate the crypto asset as the offering of a security. For example, in an effort to avoid regulatory scrutiny, before Bittrex would make an asset available on its platform, Bittrex and Shihara instructed issuer-applicants to delete statements related to price prediction[s], expectation of profit, and other investment related terms.

Todays action, yet again, makes plain that the crypto markets suffer from a lack of regulatory compliance, not a lack of regulatory clarity, said SEC Chair Gary Gensler. As alleged in our complaint, Bittrex and issuers that it worked with knew the rules that applied to them but went to great lengths to evade them by directing issuer-applicants to scrub offering materials of information indicating that certain crypto assets were securities. Further, Bittrex, as alleged, failed to register and comply with U.S. securities laws as an exchange, broker-dealer, and clearing agency. Cosmetic alterations did nothing to change the underlying economic realities of the offerings and Bittrexs conduct. Today were holding Bittrex accountable for its non-compliance.

We allege that Bittrex repeatedly chose profits over investor protection, said Gurbir S. Grewal, Director of the SECs Division of Enforcement. As laid out in our complaint, Bittrexs business model was based on three things: circumventing the registration requirements of the federal securities laws; counseling issuers of crypto asset securities to do the same by altering their offering materials; and combining multiple market intermediary functions under one roof to maximize profits. Todays action not only holds Bittrex accountable for misconduct that we allege put investors at risk, but should also send a message to other non-compliant crypto market intermediaries to follow the federal securities laws or be held accountable for their violations.

The SECs complaint, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington, alleges that Bittrex and Bittrex Global should have registered as an exchange because they brought together, using a shared order book, the orders for securities of multiple buyers and sellers using established, non-discretionary methods under which such orders interacted, and the buyers and sellers entering such orders agreed to the terms of a trade.

The complaint further alleges that Bittrex should have registered as a clearing agency because it acted as an intermediary in making payments and deliveries upon matching sell and buy orders and maintained custody of customer assets. Finally, the complaint alleges that Bittrex should have registered as a broker because it regularly engaged in the business of effecting transactions for the accounts of others in crypto assets that were offered and sold as securities.
The Finnish energy company decided to revisit the incentives after its majority owner, the Finnish government, rejected the remuneration report drafted by its board of executives at the general meeting held on Thursday, 13 April.

FORTUM on Saturday announced it will revisit the performance-based incentives it plans to pay to its executive management for 2022, reports Helsingin Sanomat.

The rejection of the general meeting is not binding, and a final decision on the bonuses will be made by the board.

I will add the issue to the agenda of the board without delay, Mikael Silvennoinen, the board chairperson at Fortum, pledged in a press release published on Saturday. The opposition of shareholders in the general meeting and other feedback show that the previous boards interpretation of implementing incentives for the executive management fails to sufficiently take into account the companys overall situation in 2022.

Fortum has experienced severe difficulties in recent months, reminded Helsingin Sanomat. It wrote off a loss of roughly six billion euros last year due to the collapse of Uniper, its natural gas-dependent subsidiary based in Dusseldorf, Germany. It also had to consolidate its solvency with a 2.35-billion-euro bridge financing arrangement with Solidium, a Finnish state-owned investment firm.

The bridge financing was granted on the condition that the executive management receive neither short, nor long-term incentives for 2022 and 2023.

Fortum posted a net loss of 2.4 billion euros in 2022. Its board, however, exhibited an utter lack of a sense or proportion by interpreting the incentive restriction as stating that the long-term incentives for 20202022 and 20212023 should be calculated based on performance in 2020 and 2021  without the loss-making year of 2022.

CEO Markus Rauramo would have thereby earned 28,499 shares for 20202021 and another 21,999 shares for 20212023. The shares were valued at a total of 710,000 euros on Friday.

We dont think that the ruling aligns with what was agreed on in conjunction with the bridge financing, Jukka-Pekka Ohtola, the ministerial adviser who represented the state at the general meeting, told Helsingin Sanomat on Friday.

Helsingin Sanomat reported yesterday that while the board interpreted the incentive restrictions in a way that would guarantee major incentives for the executive management, ordinary employees had to settle for notably lower incentives than usual, despite the high-pressure environment created by the energy crisis and collapse of Uniper.

Jari Laitinen, the head of compensation and benefits at Fortum, explained to the newspaper that the incentives are typically based 60 per cent on the comparative operating profit, 10 per cent on safety targets and 30 per cent on personal or team performance. The incentive criteria, though, also include a clause that cuts the incentives by 50 per cent if the operating profit fails to reach a certain threshold. The clause was triggered for the first time in 2022.

The outcome has been discussed by the board of executives.

It concluded that there was no reason to change it because the incentives went by the rules, he said.

Fortums remuneration policy does grant the board of executives the authority to revisit incentive criteria in circumstances where the incentives do not reflect the development of profits and share price. The board opted not to utilise its authority under the leadership of Veli-Matti Reinikkala, the chairperson of the nomination and remuneration committee at Fortum.

Aleksi Teivainen  HT
According to the authorities' findings, employers blur the boundary between the employment relationship and the assignment relationship and increasingly transfer their obligations to employees. The authorities often have to draw a line between employment and entrepreneurship: the State Regional Administrative Agencies occupational safety and health authority alone found over 400 light entrepreneurs during its 71 control visits last year. Other authorities that carry out control activities  the ELY Centre, for example  have also discovered employment relationships that employers have attempted to disguise as entrepreneurship.



Some employers also misuse the residence permit system: an employee's residence permit may be applied for when an employee arrives in Finland, and yet in practice the employee may soon be made to work as a self-employed person or a light entrepreneur and their employment relationship is either very short or does not materialise at all.



Even in employment relationships, employers often do not comply with the minimum requirements in the case of foreign employees. When performing enforcements, the occupational safety and health authority found shortcomings especially in the pay system. The biggest shortcomings had to do with the basic pay and various compensations. The largest number of shortcomings were discovered in the construction and restaurant sectors: in the construction sector, nearly 60 per cent of the enforcements revealed shortcomings, and in the hotel and catering sector, over 54 per cent.

Hundreds of millions lost every year

Economic crime and the shadow economy cause significant damage to society. Last year, criminal cases completed by the police caused crime damage worth nearly 200 million. The Tax Administration, in turn, found a total of 235 million in unreported taxes in its shadow economy control measures. The social impact of the prevention of economic crime carried out by Customs was 18 million, and based on tax audits, over 4 million were collected through realisation of recovery.



The current action plan for tackling the shadow economy and economic crime is the eighth in a row. Janne Marttinen, Director of the Tax Administrations Grey Economy Information Unit, says that the projects of the action plan have developed the cooperation between multiple authorities and the exchange of information between authorities. This helps uncover the shadow economy, address abuse, and thereby prevent losses caused to society.



Securing society's assets is particularly important in the current economic situation. When we combat the shadow economy and economic crime, we improve more efficient use of shared assets. However, money is not the only issue. Compliance with shared rules and effective cooperation between authorities benefit society as a whole, says Marttinen.



The current action plan will end at the end of this year. Marttinen hopes that the new Government will continue combating the shadow economy and economic crime.

The shadow economy is becoming more and more complex, and especially in an economic downturn, the shadow economy and the tax gap typically increase. The action plan for tackling the shadow economy and economic crime provides an opportunity for close cooperation between authorities and helps address changes in the operating environment, says Janne Marttinen.



Statistics on the prevention of the shadow economy and economic crime are published on the authorities shared Shadow economy and economic crime website. Control results are published, for example, by the occupational safety and health authorities (Regional State Administrative Agencies), the Tax Administration, the Social Insurance Institution (Kela), Finnish Customs, the Police, the Public Prosecutors Office, the Bankruptcy Ombudsman, the Enforcement Authority, the Finnish Centre for Pensions, the Accident Insurance Centre, the Employment Fund, Centres for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment (ELY Centres), the Supervisory Authority for Welfare and Health (Valvira), and the Finnish Food Authority.

Highlights from authorities control activities in 2022:

A total of 2,085 economic crime cases were recorded by the police. This is 6 per cent more than in 2021.

Extortionate work discrimination grew for the fourth year in a row. A total of 74 cases were recorded by the police last year.

Violations of sanctions against Russia brought regulation offences to a peak: last year, Customs launched nearly 300 preliminary investigations on sanction violations.

The number of bankruptcy petitions is on the rise. In 2022, bankruptcy proceedings were launched nearly 13 per cent more often than the year before.

The Tax Administrations tax control discovered a total of 235 million in unreported taxes.

60 per cent of the Uusimaa ELY Centres interim decisions on foreign employees seeking to become entrepreneurs were acceptances. The number of acceptance decisions rose by 5 per cent from the previous year.

HT

Source: Finnish Tax Administration
Energy consumption decreased in 2022, with the total consumption being 1.3 million terajoules, which was five percent less than in 2021. The last significant decrease in energy consumption was in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to a decrease in industrial energy use, among other factors.

Several factors contributed to the decrease in energy consumption in 2022, according to Aleksi Sandberg, a senior statistician at Statistics Finland.

Mild weather reduced the need for heating, especially in the early part of the year. In addition, there was a paperworkers' strike from January to April that reduced the burning of black liquor, a byproduct of the pulp industry, for energy.

The effects of the Russian aggression also affected energy consumption, with natural gas consumption almost halving following the cessation of supplies from Russia in May. The increase in electricity prices also contributed to the decrease in electricity demand.

Electricity consumption decreased by six percent compared to the previous year. Along with the rise in electricity prices, a nationwide electricity conservation campaign may have contributed to the more economical use of electricity.

Renewable energy sources remained at the same level as the previous year, accounting for about 42 percent of the total energy consumed. The quantity of renewable energy consumption decreased by five percent compared to the previous year, with the use of wood fuels decreasing by eight percent. In contrast, wind power production increased significantly by 41 percent.

"Wind power production reached a new record last year. Wind power's share of the total electricity consumption increased significantly from previous years and was now 14.1 percent. The growth in wind power production is primarily due to the increase in wind power capacity in Finland," Sandberg explained.

Nuclear power production also increased significantly last year. The total amount of nuclear energy produced, 264 terajoules, was the largest ever in statistical history, increasing by seven percent from the previous year.

"The growth was due to Olkiluoto 3, which was connected to the national electricity grid in March when the plant's trial operation began," Sandberg added.

The use of fossil fuels and peat decreased in 2022. Fossil fuels accounted for 33.7 percent of the total energy consumption, the smallest share since the 1950s. In addition to natural gas, coal consumption also decreased.

However, there was a seven percent increase in the use of coal, with lower-quality sub-bituminous coal being used as a substitute for energy from both natural gas and wood due to the energy crisis caused by the Russian aggression. The decrease in electricity imports also contributed to the increase in coal consumption.

In conclusion, the decrease in energy consumption in 2022 was attributed to several factors, including mild weather, a paperworkers' strike, and the effects of the Russian aggression. However, renewable energy production, particularly wind power, continued to grow, while nuclear power production also increased significantly. The use of fossil fuels and peat decreased, but the energy crisis caused by the Russian aggression led to an increase in the use of coal.

HT
Press Release

April 18, 2023 HONTIVEROS SEEKS PROBE INTO THE PROPOSED MERGER OF DBP, LANDBANK; SAYS EMPLOYEES, COCO LEVY BENEFICIARIES WELFARE AT RISK Senator Risa Hontiveros on Tuesday called for an investigation, in aid of legislation, into the proposed merger of the Development Bank of the Philippines and the Land Bank of the Philippines. In Proposed Senate Resolution No. 570, Hontiveros emphasized that the merger "raises concerns on the potential risks and benefits it may bring to the economy, the stability of the financial system, and various stakeholders, including the employees of both institutions." On March 28, 2023, Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno announced that the government was contemplating a merger between the two state-run financing institutions, with Land Bank as the surviving entity. This would also create the largest banking institution in the country, with a total of more than 4.179 Trillion Pesos in assets. If the merger pushes through, according to Hontiveros, the welfare and livelihood of thousands of employees of both institutions may be at risk. PSR No. 570 also underscored the concerns raised by The Land Bank of the Philippines Employees Association (LBPEA) and DBP Employees' Union (DBPEU), stating that the LBP and the DBP violated the terms of their Collective Negotiations Agreements by failing to consult with the unions beforehand. "As the two banks merge operations, it is possible that certain jobs will be eliminated or reduced in size. It will negatively affect employee morale and job satisfaction. Changes in leadership, organizational structure, and company culture can create anxiety. Employees should not carry the burden of job uncertainty and financial hardship that will result from this merger," Hontiveros said. According to the resolution, coconut farmers are also in peril as this impending merger will "make it even more difficult for the beneficiaries to access support from the fund and will further dilute the mandate of the LBP to assist Coco Levy beneficiaries." Likewise, Hontiveros urged Malacanang to not rush the proposed merger and instead devote more time to analyze it extensively, consult with key stakeholders, and resolve not just the legal issues, but all the operational and personal issues voiced out by the employees and the small coconut farmers. "Hindi ko maintindihan kung bakit minamadali. Sa paglalakad na ito ng matulin, ang mga empleyado ng dalawang banko at coco levy beneficiaries ang matitinik ng malalim. Hindi ba dapat ayusin muna ang mga isyu gaya ng non-payment of benefits o proper turnover bago umarangkada na naman sa panibagong merger?" the Senator said. Hontiveros earlier warned that the merger would result in a financial entity "too big to fail" as the 2008 global financial crisis proved that large banks are riskier, and tend to introduce more systemic risk into the financial system. "There is a need for the government to proceed cautiously and prudently vis-a-vis the contemplated merger, as well as clarify all legal issues involved, for the purpose of ensuring that this does not prejudice the country's economy, the stability of the financial system, and the welfare of affected employees and depositors," the resolution stated. ______________ Please see attached PSR No. 570 in PDF format
In December 2022, the Finnish Immigration Service conducted an internal inquiry into a case reported on by Helsingin Sanomat on 10 December 2022, which concerned a customer who had completed a degree in Finland and applied for a residence permit to look for work.

Most of the decisions that the Finnish Immigration Service inspected in its legality control had been duly processed in compliance with the statutory requirements. However, the Finnish Immigration Service takes very seriously the fact that it had not met all its legal obligations in 9 per cent of the decisions that were inspected.

The inquiry found that errors were made during the processing of the case in question with regard to the procedure and the interpretation of the law.

After the inquiry, Ilkka Haahtela, Director General of the Finnish Immigration Service, decided to have a separate legality control conducted. The task was given to the agency's own legal services unit. In JanuaryFebruary, they examined negative decision issued in 2022 on extended permits that were applied for on the basis of work, studies or family ties.

"Each and every case must be processed in a customer-oriented manner and in compliance with the law. In addition to arranging an internal legal control inspection, I decided to order an external audit of our operations. The results of all these investigations will be put to use when we update our guidelines and instructions on the application of law," says Director General Ilkka Haahtela.

In the separate legality control that was conducted, the Legal Services of the Finnish Immigration Service assessed the accuracy and quality of the agency's decision-making by focusing on the duty to ensure that a matter is sufficiently and appropriately examined, on the hearing of the views of the applicant, and on the overall consideration of an applicant's circumstances. The Legal Services also evaluated how extensively the reasons for the decision were presented in the decision document and how the best interests of the child and the protection of family life were assessed in the decisions. In addition, the Legal Services examined to what degree the statutory processing times were observed and how the principles of a customer-focused approach were followed.

Procedural errors regarding the examination duty and the hearing of the customer's views were found

A total of 176 negative decisions issued in 2022 in matters concerning extended permits were selected for inspection: 76 decisions were based on work, 50 on studies and 50 on family ties.

Out of the decisions on extended permit that were inspected, 160 decisions (91%) had been appropriately processed, whereas in 16 decisions (9%), the Finnish Immigration Service had not met its statutory obligations. Most of the procedural errors that were detected were related to the duty to ensure that a matter is sufficiently examined or to the duty to hear the views of the customer and his or her family members.

"In practice, this may mean, for instance, that a customer had not been given an opportunity to express their view on a possible removal from the country or that the family member residing in Finland had not been heard when a matter regarding his or her spouse was decided," says Haahtela.

Regarding the decisions in which a procedural error was detected, the Finnish Immigration Service has started taking the necessary measures for correcting a material error as defined in section 50 of the Administrative Procedure Act. If a customer has appealed against a decision that contains a procedural error to an administrative court, the Finnish Immigration Service has notified the administrative court in question of the initiation of the correction process. If an erroneous decision has been with the police waiting to be served on the customer, the police have been told that the Finnish Immigration Service will reconsider the customer's matter. However, all erroneous decisions did not require correction if, for instance, the customer already has been granted a residence permit on some other grounds.

"We have contacted the customers whose decisions will be reconsidered," says Haahtela.

In addition to procedural errors, quality problems were detected in the decisions that were inspected. The quality problems concerned, for instance, the assessment of family unity and the best interests of the child. In decisions based on family ties or work, the statutory processing times had been exceeded in some decisions.

"The Legal Services observed that the overall consideration of a customer's circumstances could be expanded in many cases. The overall situation of the customer must always be considered, and the decision must state the facts that are in favour of a positive result even if a residence permit cannot be granted," says Haahtela.

Measures to be taken by the Finnish Immigration Service

The separate legality control that was conducted proved that improvements are needed in the processing of residence permits and in the quality of decisions.

"Finding out that there are customers whose matter was not processed in accordance with the statutory requirements is being taken very seriously. The observations made in the legality control have been discussed with those who are responsible and will be taken into account in future decisions," says Haahtela.

In addition to correcting the factual errors in the reviewed decisions and making changes in the agency's internal instructions, the Finnish Immigration Service will take the following measures based on the findings of the legality control that it performed:

Document templates, such as templates used for writing decisions or requests for additional information, will be updated and internal instructions will be clarified. Instructions for considering the best interests of the child will be updated, and further training will be provided for the staff on overall consideration, on assessing the best interests of the child and on making the best interests of the child a primary consideration. We will track the impact of these measures on the quality of our decisions during the year 2024. The agency will reform its guidelines, and an external audit will be conducted to ensure the quality of the guidelines. In addition, the policies regarding the interpretations made in connection with decisions will be developed further. This work has already been ongoing for several months. In accordance with the agency's legality control plan, five inspections will be carried out during the year, focusing on different types of residence permit decisions. The aim is to monitor the legality of our decisions and to ensure that a customer-focused approach is followed. We also aim to find ways to harmonise the way the law is applied. In addition, we aim to harmonise our practices and streamline the processing of applications and the decision-making process.

HT

Source: Finnish Immigration Service
Being held for the third time, the startup competition seeks the most promising technology companies of today with the potential for growth.

The Teknologia 23 event's competition , targeted at startup companies, is now open. The aim of the competition is to highlight significant new solutions in the field of technology, and the winner will receive a 10,000 prize, donated by the Finnish Fair Foundation. The Teknologia 23 fair will be held at the Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre from 7 to 9 November 2023.

The prize can be awarded for a significant, creative and innovative technology solution, such as a new commercial product, method, or application.

Competition entries can be submitted until 31 August 2023. From among the entries, the competition jury will then select the 57 best ideas or solutions, which will enter a pitch competition, to be held at the Teknologia 2023 event. The jury will select the winner based on the pitches. The winner will be announced and the prize presented on 8 November, at the Teknologia Party evening event of the Teknologia 23 fair.

For more detailed instructions on how to participate in the competition, head to the Teknologia 23 website.

The competition is organised by the Teknologia fair in cooperation with the Finnish Business Angels Network (FiBAN). FiBAN is one of the world's largest and most active business angel networks, with more than 650 investors as members.

HT

Source: Messukeskus
In a joint statement issued after two days of talks in the resort town of Karuizawa in central Japan, top diplomats of the G7 countries reiterated their call on third parties to "cease assistance to Russia's war, or face severe costs."

Foreign ministers of the Group of Seven countries have condemned in the strongest possible terms Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine and warned that any use of chemical, biological or nuclear weapons by Moscow would be met with "severe consequences."

"We will reinforce our coordination to prevent and respond to third parties supplying weapons to Russia and continue to take actions against those who materially support Russia's war against Ukraine," the communique read.

Top diplomats from Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United States, plus the European Union also condemned a Russian threat to station nuclear weapons in Belarus as "unacceptable".

Stating that Russia's "war of aggression" against Ukraine, constitutes a serious violation of international law, including the UN Charter, the G-7 leaders reiterated that Russia must withdraw all forces and equipment from Ukraine immediately and unconditionally.

"We recommit today to supporting Ukraine for as long as it takes and to providing sustained security, economic, and institutional support to help Ukraine defend itself, secure its free and democratic future, and deter future Russian aggression," it said.

"We will continue to help Ukraine repair and restore its critical energy and environmental infrastructure and reemphasize our strong support for Ukraine's energy security. Ukraine's anti-corruption and domestic reform efforts must continue, and we will support them. In this regard, we reiterate our full confidence in the G7 Ambassadors Support Group in Ukraine and its role of supporting the implementation process," the statement read.

Recalling the importance of the 77-year record of non-use of nuclear weapons since 1945, the G-7 countries condemned Russia's continued seizure and militarization of Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP), which "could lead to potentially severe consequences for nuclear safety and security."

"We support the International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) efforts to help strengthen nuclear safety and security in Ukraine, including the Director General's leadership on efforts at the ZNPP," the joint communique of the G-7 ministers said.

The statement said, "There can be no impunity for war crimes and other atrocities such as Russia's attacks against civilians and critical civilian infrastructure."

It also condemned the unlawful transfer and deportation of Ukrainians, including children, and conflict-related sexual violence against Ukrainians.

Reiterating their commitment to holding those responsible to account consistent with international law, the G7 leaders supported exploring the creation of an internationalized tribunal based in Ukraine's judicial system to prosecute the crime of aggression against Ukraine.

In addition, the G7 leaders underscored the importance of the protection and preservation of Ukrainian cultural properties and heritage damaged and threatened by the war.

"Russia's weaponization of food and energy resources has compounded economic vulnerabilities, exacerbated already dire humanitarian crises, and escalated global food and energy insecurity. We will continue to provide assistance, including food-related aid, to help affected countries and populations," the ministers said.

The ministers also affirmed their intent to support the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of Central Asian countries.

"We commit to working together with Central Asian countries to address regional challenges, including the consequences of Russia's war of aggression, the destabilizing effect of the situation in Afghanistan, food and energy insecurity, terrorism, and the consequences of climate change," it said.

The G7 ministers also agreed that peace and security in the Taiwan Strait was "indispensable element in security and prosperity in the international community" and opposed militarisation of the South China Sea. They called on Beijing to act as a responsible member of the international community.

The joint communique also included a demand that North Korea "refrain" from new nuclear tests or ballistic missile launches.

HT

Source: ANI
Hendersonville Elementary makes ESPN's Special Olympics honor roll

Hendersonville Elementary School is one of 37 Special Olympics Unified Champion schools in the country to make the 2022 ESPN Honor Roll and the only school in North Carolina.



There are more than 8,000 Special Olympics Unified Champion schools that practice inclusive sports, inclusive leadership, and whole school engagement. To earn the recognition of a national banner school on the ESPN Honor Roll, schools must demonstrate inclusion through 10 standards of excellence.

Hendersonville Elementary was selected based on the active involvement of the PawPal program in which fifth grade students apply for and spend quality time with EC students in Intensive Intervention. The whole school participates in field day, water day, the CubCat Crawl and rallies behind the PawPal program with special olympics and other activities.

The Special Olympics of North Carolina is hosting a day of celebration to recognize Hendersonville Elementary School on Friday, April 21. Here's the schedule:
THE vandal responsible for daubing Henley Bridge with graffiti should be forced to pay for its removal, say town councillors.

They were responding to Rishi Sunaks announcement last month of tougher measures to curb antisocial behaviour.

Under the plans, graffiti vandals would have to repair the damage they cause within 48 hours and communities would have a say on how offenders are punished.

A large black and white H tag was daubed at the Berkshire end of the bridge, which is Grade I listed, in May last year.

Speaking at a meeting of the councils town and community committee, Councillor Ken Arlett said the Governments proposals were unlikely to work.

Cllr Arlett, a member of the ruling Henley Residents Group, said: One would imagine that the majority of graffiti is done at night-time  I cant believe they do it in the middle of the day.

So if there are no police on the streets, which there are not at the moment at night-time, how do they intend to catch the criminal doing graffiti?

If they are not going to catch them they are not going to clean it within 48 hours, are they?

Councillor Will Hamilton (Conservative) said that 34 more officers had recently joined Thames Valley Police.

But he added: I agree with you that the graffiti should be cleaned off. If it can be cleaned off in 48 hours, then thats better than what has been done previously.

Councillor Kellie Hinton (HRG), who chaired the meeting, said: It would be great but I dont think there are magical graffiti fairies that are going to catch anybody.

Like with all these things, people like to put rules in, then they are not necessarily able to enforce them.

Councillor Stefan Gawrysiak (HRG) said he had written to officers at Oxfordshire County Council, which is responsible for the bridge, to say he knew who was behind the bridge tag and they should be billed for it.

He said: It has got to be professionally removed. Yes, it has taken longer than we wanted it to, and we want it done properly rather than with battery acid, but the important thing is that the whole of this bill should be put on the person who did this.

They should get the full 20,000/30,000 bill for getting rid of this graffiti.

Councillor Ian Reissmann (HRG) said: Apparently we are aware of the identity of the person who carried out the graffiti, which is a criminal offence.

Has the matter been reported to the police and have they investigated? That would certainly help with any potential restoration of costs.

Councillor David Eggleton (Ind) said the underside of the bridge was badly damaged and wanted to know when this would be repaired. Cllr Hinton replied: They are planning what they are going to do but they dont know when they are going to do it yet.

Cllr Hamilton said: It has been two to three years of reporting it and nothing seems to be happening. Quite frankly, its not good enough.

The underside of the bridge is broken and its a Grade I listed structure. The paving stones have got to be replaced. That has been 18 months in the waiting.

The graffiti has been around for months. People will say it is not just about getting Henley right for the regatta, its the time we have most of our guests here taking pictures.

Please can we try to get the graffiti off before regatta because it has been around for too long?

He suggested that town clerk Sheridan Jacklin-Edward should write to the county council and stress the urgency of the work required.

Cllr Hinton replied: I do appreciate your concern and frustration but its not our responsibility, the bridge is the responsibility of the county council.

We have held them accountable and we have tried to push this sooner within our remit but they are providing us with an update.

It might not be the update that we want to hear but there is communication there  they are listening to us and they are responding to us and I dont think that theres any reason to put on any more pressure.

Cllr Reissmann added: Just repeating the same message again and again is possibly even counter-productive.

If we were to contact them again we could ask for confirmation of a date when they would carry out repairs or an indication of a date. Thats some purpose.

The committee agreed to ask for a date for repairs and whether the graffiti incident had been reported to the police.

 What do you think? Write to: Letters, Henley Standard, Caxton House, 1 Station Road, Henley or email

letters@henleystandard.co.uk
A CHARITY concert is to be held in memory of a boy who died from a brain tumour.

Charlie Ilsley, from Emmer Green, was 13 when he lost his fight for life in December 2020.

Now Highdown School, where he was a pupil, is to host the concert in his memory.

Pupils from Highdown and the Hill Primary School, which Charlie previously attended, will sing together with Reading Phoenix Choir on the evening of Saturday, June 24.

The music will include some of his favourite songs.

All profits will go to Team Charlie, a charity set up in his memory which supports children with brain tumours across Oxfordshire and Berkshire.

Toni Ilsley, Charlies mother and a trustee of the charity, said: We lost Charlie in the middle of lockdown just before Christmas 2020.

Although we had a funeral, there were tight restrictions so many people, including many pupils and parents, werent given the opportunity to pay their respects in the way they may have liked. Now weve set up Team Charlie, we thought one of our first fundraisers would serve as the perfect tribute to him and what better venue than his school where so many teachers, parents and children knew him?

Hed be delighted to know what we were doing, not just for him but for other children with brain tumours.

Weve got a singing workshop for pupils on the day ahead of the evenings event so many people are investing their spare time in this and rehearsing  its amazing.

With the Reading Phoenix Choir singing too, it promises to be an incredibly inspiring and moving concert, although it will be an extremely tough, emotional night for me.

Alison Duncan, a teacher at Highdown who is helping to organise the concert, said: The school and pupils wanted to do something special to remember Charlie as they never got to say goodbye properly.

Its a testament to his popularity and how much he is sorely missed that the community and both of his former schools wanted to get involved.

We really hope that as many people can join us as possible to celebrate Charlies life while supporting such a worthy cause.

The concert will feature a mix of contemporary and older music, including Sing, Somewhere Over The Rainbow and This Is Me.

Tickets cost 10 for adults and 5 for children, with family concessions available, and can be bought at

https://tinyurl.com/Charlie-tickets
One of the hallmarks of Pico Iyers travel writing is his remarkable ability to go beyond the facade of a place, glean its profound cultural and spiritual dimensions, and reveal its soul. This shines throughout his impressive oeuvre, with each travel book a testament to his unmatched skill to immerse himself in the place he visits or  since he has been writing for so long  revisits. PREMIUM Gates to a Hindu temple in Bali, Indonesia (Shutterstock)

240pp, 599; Hamish Hamilton

In The Art of Stillness: Adventures in Going Nowhere (2014), for instance, Iyer provides a much-needed balm for our frazzled modern lives, helping us to rediscover the value of quiet reflection and concentration in a world where technology has become an all-consuming distraction. In his latest, The Half-Known Life: In Search of Paradise, he takes us on a journey to some of the worlds most exotic locales in search of the elusive concept of paradise.

Through his travels  in the past and in recent years  to places like Tehran, Pyongyang, Colombo, Belfast, Koyasan, Varanasi and Srinagar, Iyer takes us on a journey of self-discovery and reflection; reading the book, you will find yourself thinking long and hard about what it means to find happiness and contentment in a world that is often plagued by suffering. The accounts of these places are written in Iyers signature lyrical prose, and his descriptions of the places he visits are rich with detail and insight. He effortlessly weaves together strands of history, culture, and personal reflection to create a multi-dimensional portrait of each place he visits. At its core, In Search of Paradise is a meditation on the nature of happiness and the human condition. Through his travels, Iyer reveals the universal human desire to find a sense of peace and contentment in a world that can often feel chaotic and unpredictable. He invites us to reflect on our own search for happiness and what it means to live a fulfilling life. After years of travel, Id begun to wonder what kind of paradise can ever be found in a world of unceasing conflict  and whether the search for it might not simply aggravate our differences, Iyer writes. The quest to find an answer to this leads him to embark on a spiritual odyssey of sorts, which he begins with Iran, the culture that had given us both our word for paradise and some of our most soulful images of it. In his account of Iran  a land of contrasts, where ancient history and modernity coexist side by side  Iyer underlines the countrys complex and multifaceted identity, one that is often misunderstood or oversimplified in Western media, and explores its political and religious complexities. He describes his encounters with Iranians, their hospitality, and their cultural traditions. Iran is a country with a deep and complex history, a place where the past is never far from the present. It is also a country that is in the midst of a profound cultural and political transformation, as its people struggle to balance tradition and modernity, religion and secularism, writes Iyer, weaving into his narrative the countrys quandaries and contradictions, from its topography  rugged mountains, shimmering deserts  to the beauty of its architecture and the challenges faced by its people in the aftermath of the Islamic Revolution. His approach to other places is characterized by similar empathy, deep appreciation for the cultural complexity, as well as a sensitivity to their historical context and spiritual significance. In his writing on Varanasi, Iyer offers a vivid and intimate portrait of the ancient city and its spiritual traditions. He describes its narrow streets, bustling markets, and ornate temples, as well as the religious rituals and practices that take place along the banks of the Ganges River. Varanasi is a city that is steeped in history and mythology, a place where the sacred and the profane coexist in perfect harmony. It is a place of great spiritual significance, where people come to cleanse themselves of their sins and seek enlightenment. Iyer also reflects on the challenges facing modern-day Varanasi, including issues of poverty, pollution, and overdevelopment, and he offers insights into the ways in which the city is adapting to these changes.

Polynesian women perform a traditional dance in Tahiti , French Polynesia. (Sarayuth3390/Shutterstock)

Throughout the book, Iyer weaves together personal anecdotes from his travels with reflections on the larger philosophical questions that arise from the human search for paradise. He notes that different cultures have different visions of paradise, but that they all share a common desire for something better than the present reality. Iyer also emphasizes that the search for paradise is not just a matter of finding a physical place or state of being, but rather a deeper search for meaning and fulfilment in life: The search for paradise is not just a physical journey, but a spiritual one. It is the journey of the soul, seeking its place in the world, seeking a sense of purpose and belonging.

Drawing on his own experiences of travel and encounters with people from different cultures to illustrate his points about the search for paradise, he reflects on the ways in which his own ideas of paradise have shifted over time and with different experiences. In his accounts, Iyer peels away the socio-political contexts of the places to show us the dark side of paradise, acknowledging the poverty, violence, and political strife that often lurk beneath the surface of these seemingly idyllic locations. In doing so, he presents a nuanced and realistic portrayal of these places, which adds depth to the book. He writes of his time in Ethiopia: The journey is not without its risks. Outside of the cities, the roads are often dirt tracks, and there are bandits and rebels who prey on passing vehicles. One of the books most compelling aspects is how it evokes the sensory experience of each location Iyer visits. Whether he is describing the neon-lit streets of Tokyo, the lush greenery of Bali, or the snow-covered peaks of the Himalayas, Iyers prose is rich and evocative. He captures the sounds, smells, and textures of each place, making the reader feel as though they are there alongside him. Of Bali, he writes: Its easy to be lulled into thinking that life here is always sunny and easy, that the smiles come naturally and the paradise is unchanging. But beneath the surface, there are as many struggles and hardships as in any other part of the world. What also elevates In Search of Paradise is the fact that Iyer connects these disparate locations into a cohesive narrative. What could possibly be common between the quiet island of Tahiti in French Polynesia and the bustling streets of Kyoto? you may ask. Iyer tells you just as the people of Tahiti  a place of natural beauty and exoticism, where the sea is always visible and the trees are always in bloom  have preserved their traditions and values even in the face of colonialism and globalization, the old and the new coexist in fascinating ways in Kyoto,  a city that has been shaped by its history and culture, and yet it is also a city that is constantly changing and evolving.

Tombs in Recoleta Cemetery in Buenos Aires, Argentina. (Steve Allen/Shutterstock)

To me, an interesting strand of the book is the way Iyer describes how graves and cemeteries are used to express cultural values. They are not just places of mourning, but also sites of pilgrimage, memory, and cultural identity. For instance, one of the most moving sections of the book is Iyers description of his visit to the cemetery of La Recoleta in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He describes the elaborate mausoleums and monuments, many of which are adorned with intricate carvings and statues, and notes the ways in which the cemetery reflects the cultural and historical richness of Argentina: The cemetery of La Recoleta, with its sprawling avenues and ornate tombs, is like a city of the dead, a miniature metropolis that echoes the grandeur and complexity of the living city outside its walls. He notes that cemeteries can be places of both beauty and horror, reflecting the range of human experience and emotion.

He also writes about the graves and cemeteries in Japan, where he has lived for many years. He details the ancestor worship in Japanese culture and the way in which graves are seen as places of connection and communication with the deceased: Graves are not just places of mourning, but also of communication, of connection with the spirits of the dead. In Japan, the dead are not forgotten or ignored, but are actively incorporated into daily life and cultural rituals. It is the same in Iran, where graves are much more than mere repositories of the dead, visited by thousands of people who come seeking blessings or solace or simply a connection to the past. Iyer describes visiting the tomb of the poet Hafez in Shiraz, where he observes the reverence and devotion that Iranians have for their cultural heritage.

Pico Iyer at the Jaipur Literature Festival in 2013 (M Zhazo/Hindustan Times)

The more I travel, the more I realize that paradise is not a place, but a state of mind. It is a feeling of contentment and satisfaction that arises when we are in harmony with ourselves and the world around us, writes Iyer towards the end of the book. But there are many others who are less fortunate and find it hard to get peace anywhere, even within the borders of their own country or the confines of their own home. In their case, the struggle of their life is their paradise, to paraphrase what a Zen master tells Iyer.

Shireen Quadri is the editor of The Punch Magazine Anthology of New Writing by Women Writers. She tweets at @shireenquadri The views expressed are personal

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Cryptocurrency is a type of digital currency that uses cryptography to secure transactions and control the creation of new units. It operates independently of a central bank and can be used for various purposes, including online purchases, investments, and peer-to-peer transactions. In recent years, the world has seen a surge in the popularity of cryptocurrencies due to their decentralized nature and potential for high returns. The top cryptocurrency by market capitalization has dominated the crypto world since its inception, with its value reaching all-time highs in recent years. In this article, we'll share the list of top cryptocurrency you can consider for investing.

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Renske Verse

Renske Verse is a revolutionary platform that aims to democratize real estate investment by leveraging the power of blockchain technology. By tokenizing commercial properties in developing nations and offering them to investors using cryptocurrency, Renske Verse provides an accessible, low-cost investment opportunity with high potential returns. The platform's user-friendly interface and transparency make it easy for investors to track their investments and monitor their portfolios in real-time. Moreover, by targeting emerging markets, Renske Verse contributes to sustainable economic development and provides a pathway for global investors to support growth and innovation in developing nations. Renske Verse is a game-changer in the world of real estate investment, and its impact is set to be felt for years to come.

SOLANA

Solana is a high-performance blockchain designed to provide fast and efficient transaction processing for decentralized applications. Its main features include a high throughput of up to 65,000 transactions per second, low fees, and fast confirmation times. Solana uses a unique consensus algorithm called Proof of History (PoH) that enables validators to reach consensus without having to communicate with each other directly, making it highly scalable. Additionally, Solana supports smart contracts written in Rust and offers interoperability with other blockchains through its Wormhole bridge. The platform also has a native cryptocurrency called SOL, which is used for transaction fees, staking, and governance.

Binance USD

Binance USD (BUSD) is a stablecoin issued by Binance, one of the world's largest cryptocurrency exchanges. It is pegged to the US dollar at a 1:1 ratio, providing stability and predictability in the volatile world of cryptocurrency trading. BUSD is built on the Ethereum blockchain, making it compatible with a wide range of decentralized applications and enabling fast and secure transactions. It is also backed by a reserve of US dollars held in a New York State-chartered trust company, providing users with additional reassurance of its stability. BUSD can be easily bought and sold on Binance and other exchanges, and can be used for a variety of purposes, including trading, payments, and remittances.

Polygon MATIC

Polygon (MATIC) is a cryptocurrency that serves as the native token of the Polygon network, a Layer 2 scaling solution for Ethereum. Polygon aims to solve the scalability issues of Ethereum by providing faster and cheaper transactions. Some of the key features of Polygon (MATIC) include its ability to support smart contracts and decentralized applications (DApps) on the network, its compatibility with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM), and its ability to interoperate with other blockchains. MATIC can also be staked on the network to participate in governance and earn rewards, and it can be used to pay for transaction fees and other services on the Polygon network.

Conclusion

Cryptocurrency has revolutionized the way we think about traditional finance and has paved the way for a more decentralized financial system. Renske Verse, Polygon MATIC, and Binance USD are some of the most well-known cryptocurrencies that have gained immense popularity over the years. Speaking of innovation, yPredict.ai has made significant strides in the field of predictive analytics and machine learning, offering reliable and accurate predictions to its clients. However, it is important to note that investing in cryptocurrencies is still a high-risk endeavor and requires a thorough understanding of the market dynamics.

FAQs

What is cryptocurrency and how does it work?

Cryptocurrency is a digital or virtual currency that uses cryptography for security and operates independently of a central bank. It works on a decentralized system called blockchain, which is a public ledger of all transactions that is verified and updated by a network of users.

Is cryptocurrency a safe investment?

The safety of investing in cryptocurrency depends on various factors such as market volatility, regulatory changes, and security risks. While some people have made significant profits from investing in cryptocurrency, it is important to do your research and understand the risks before investing.

Can cryptocurrency be used to buy goods and services?

Yes, some businesses accept cryptocurrency as payment for goods and services. However, its acceptance is not yet widespread, and its value can fluctuate rapidly, making it difficult to use as a reliable currency.

How can I acquire cryptocurrency?

You can acquire cryptocurrency by buying it on a cryptocurrency exchange, mining it, or receiving it as payment for goods or services. It is important to note that cryptocurrency transactions can be irreversible, so it is important to take precautions to secure your cryptocurrency.

What are the tax implications of owning cryptocurrency?

The tax implications of owning cryptocurrency vary depending on your country of residence and the specific regulations in place. In some countries, cryptocurrency is subject to capital gains tax, while in others it is treated as a form of income. It is important to consult a tax professional to understand the tax implications of owning cryptocurrency.

Glossary

Smart contract: A self-executing contract with the terms of the agreement between buyer and seller being directly written into code and stored on a blockchain.

Decentralized finance (DeFi): A financial system built on blockchain technology that operates without traditional financial intermediaries such as banks, allowing users to engage in peer-to-peer lending, borrowing, and trading.

Stablecoin: A type of cryptocurrency designed to maintain a stable value relative to a particular asset or basket of assets, typically the US dollar or another fiat currency.

Public key cryptography: A cryptographic system that uses a pair of keys, one public and one private, to securely encrypt and decrypt data in a cryptocurrency transaction.

Satoshi: The smallest unit of a bitcoin, equivalent to one hundred millionth of a single bitcoin. The term is named after the pseudonymous creator of bitcoin, Satoshi Nakamoto.

Hash function: A mathematical function that converts data of any size into a fixed-size output, used in cryptocurrencies to secure and validate transactions on the blockchain.

Cold storage: A method of storing cryptocurrencies offline, typically on a hardware wallet or paper wallet, to protect them from potential hacking or theft.

Gas: A unit of measurement used to determine the fees for executing transactions on the Ethereum blockchain, proportional to the complexity of the transaction.

Proof of work: A consensus mechanism used in many cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, that requires miners to solve complex mathematical puzzles in order to validate transactions and add new blocks to the blockchain.

Tokenization: The process of converting real-world assets, such as property or artwork, into digital tokens on a blockchain, allowing for fractional ownership and easier transfer of ownership.

Disclaimer: This article is a paid publication and does not have journalistic/ editorial involvement of Hindustan Times. Hindustan Times does not endorse/ subscribe to the contents of the article/advertisement and/or views expressed herein.

The reader is further advised that Crypto products and NFTs are unregulated and can be highly risky. There may be no regulatory recourse for any loss from such transactions.

Hindustan Times shall not in any manner, be responsible and/or liable in any manner whatsoever for all that is stated in the article and/or also with regard to the views, opinions, announcements, declarations, affirmations etc., stated/featured in same. The decision to read hereinafter is purely a matter of choice and shall be construed as an express undertaking/guarantee in favour of Hindustan Times of being absolved from any/ all potential legal action, or enforceable claims. The content may be for information and awareness purposes and does not constitute a financial advice.
After former Karnataka chief minister Jagadish Shettar joined Congress, Leader of Opposition in State Assembly Siddaramaiah on Monday said that despite coming from the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Shettar is a 'secular' person. Though from RSS, Jagadish Shettar is secular person, says Siddaramaiah

Also Read - Who is Jagadish Shettar and why did he quit Karnataka BJP?

A day after quitting the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Jagadish Shettar on Monday joined Congress ahead of the upcoming state assembly elections in Karnataka.

Speaking on the occasion, Siddaramaiah said, "I welcome former Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar to our party. He is known as a decent politician in Karnataka. Though he is from RSS, he is a secular person."

"I worked with him as the opposition leader and he was the opposition leader when I was CM. He was an honest party worker in BJP and always stood with the party, not for personal gain," the Congress leader added.

Shettar arrived at the Congress office in Bengaluru this morning.

His induction to the party took place in the presence of Congress chief MallikarjunKharge, Karnataka state Congress president DK Shivakumar and Leader of Opposition in the state assembly Siddaramaiah.

Senior BJP leader Amar Singh Patil also joined Congress along with Shettar.

Speaking at the occasion, Shettar said, "Yesterday I left BJP and today I joined the Congress party. Many are surprised as an opposition leader, former CM and party president is joining Congress. BJP has given me every position and being a party worker I always worked for the party's growth."

"I thought being a senior leader, I will get the ticket, but when I came to know that I am not getting it, I was shocked. No one spoke to me nor tried to convince me, not even gave assurance about what position will I get," he stated.

Shettar further said, "I was contacted by DK Shivakumar, Siddaramaiah, Surjewala and MB Patil. When they invited me I came without any other option. I am joining Congress wholeheartedly."

Congress president Kharge said, "I do not need to give more introduction about Jagadish Shettar. His joining will boost the enthusiasm of the Congress, He is the person who not only wins alone, he is a person who is capable to win more seats. Though he was in Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and Jana Sangha, he is a non-controversial person. We have worked together."

"Our target was 150, now after Shettar's joining it is confirmed that we will reach the target," added the Congress chief.

Taking to Twitter, Congress MP Randeep Singh Surjewala said, "A New Chapter, A New History, A new Beginning.... Former BJP CM, Former BJP President, Former Leader of Opposition, Six times MLA, Jagadish Shettar joins the Congress family today. Karnataka Congress welcomes him."

Notably, Karnataka State Congress in-charge Randeep Singh Surjewala, Siddaramaiah and Karnataka Congress chief DK Shivakumar met former CM Shettar in Bengaluru after he resigned from BJP on Sunday.

In this regard, Jagadish Shettar took to Twitter and said, "Fed up with the political events of the past few days, I have resigned from my MLA seat and will discuss my next move with the activists. As usual, I believe that your love and blessings will always be with me".

Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala on Sunday said that Jagadish Shettar was humiliated and BJP has crumbled like a house of cards.

Shettar tendered his resignation as an MLA to Karnataka Assembly Speaker, Vishweshwar Hegde Kageri, at Sirsi on Sunday.

Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai had mentioned that BJP president JP Nadda and Union Home Minister Amit Shah had promised Shettar a big post in Delhi.

"Jagadish Shettar has been a senior and an important leader in this region. JP Nadda and Union Home Minister had promised a big post in Delhi to Shettar. Everything would have been fine if the former CM had continued," Bommai told media persons in Hubballi.

Bommai said that tickets are being denied to some candidates as opportunities are being given to the young generation.

Shettar, a six-time MLA from the constituency, was reportedly advised by the party to stand down and not seek a fresh term as MLA from the Hubli-Dharwad Central segment, following which his followers expressed their anguish against the party's high command.

On Saturday after announcing his resignation Jagadish Shettar also mentioned that there was a conspiracy against him, which is why he was denied a ticket.

"There is a conspiracy against me, will tell everything after resigning," Shettar told ANI.

After being left out from the BJP's candidate lists, Shettar had issued an ultimatum to the party, saying he would consider his future political course if denied a ticket from his preferred segment.

Meanwhile, former Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa on Sunday said if Shettar comes back to BJP, the party would welcome him.

The Karnataka assembly elections will be held in a single phase on May 10, with the counting of votes scheduled on May 13.
Seven persons were arrested in connection with generating fake entry tickets of 'Bhasma Aarti' at Mahakaleshwar Temple in Madhya Pradesh's Ujjain district, a police official said on Tuesday. A priest performs Bhasma Aarti at Mahakaleshwar temple, in Ujjain. (File/ ANI)

Read here: Anushka Sharma, Virat Kohli visit Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain, offer prayers. Watch

Bhasma aarti (offering with ashes) is a famous ritual at Mahakal Temple. It is performed during the Brahma Muhurta between 4 and 5:30 am.

These accused used to prepare new tickets by tampering with the old entry tickets of the temple and sold it at high prices to the devotees. The matter came to light when three devotees from Delhi visited the Mahakal temple on April 16 and bought entry tickets of the Bhasma Aarti by paying an extra amount. The devotees paid 1500 for each ticket while the actual cost of the tickets was 200.

The devotees reached the Mahakal temple with their tickets and when it was checked during the entry it was found to be fake. Following which, the devotees reached Mahakal police station and lodged a complaint.

Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Abhishek Anand told ANI, "Three devotees from Delhi lodged a complaint at the Mahakal police station regarding the fake entry tickets on April 16. Acting on the complaint, a case was registered under Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 420 and 434 and started investigation into the matter."

During investigation of the case, the officials of Mahakal police station arrested a total of seven accused involved in the crime. During interrogation of the accused, it came to fore that the accused used to prepare the new tickets by tampering with the old entry tickets, Additional SP Anand said.

Read here: Haryana: Building collapse leaves 4 workers dead, 20 injured in Karnal

He added that the police also recovered six mobile phones and a laptop from the accused. On the basis of interrogation and evidence, more IPC sections 467, 468 and 471 were added in the case.
Mohali Police booked two individuals on Monday for duping an Amritsar resident of 50k by selling fake diamonds. The accused were identified as Ravneet Bansal of Sector 48, Chandigarh, and Pradeep Singh of Kaithal, Haryana. A case under Sections 406, 420 and 120-B of the IPC was registered at Phase 11 police station. (iStock)

The complainant, Amit Chopra of Amritsar, said that he connected with Bansal on social media and the letter told the victim that he was a diamond merchant. Bansal said that he was selling diamonds at a cheaper rate as he needed money. I, along with my friend Prince, a jeweller from Amritsar, met the accused at a restaurant in Sector 66, Mohali. They gave me two diamonds for 50,000. When Prince checked the diamonds, they were found to be fake but the accused refused to return the money, said Chopra.

A case under Sections 406 (criminal breach of trust), 420 (cheating) and 120-B (criminal conspiracy) of the Indian Penal Code was registered at Phase 11 police station.
Authorities in Northern California on Monday said they had arrested more than a dozen persons from two warring criminal syndicates whose violent rivalry they say was responsible for a mass shooting at a Sikh temple and a brutal sword attack at a parade in 2018. A combo of images shows firearms seized by the police after arresting 17 persons in California in connection with a series of shootings in gurdwaras in Stockton, Sacramento and other locations. (PTI)

Sutter county district attorney Jennifer Dupre said two of the people arrested are mafia members who are wanted on a number of murders in India.

Authorities arrested 17 persons, including Karandeep Singh, Pardeep Singh, Pavittar Singh, Husandeep Singh, Sahajpreet Singh, Harkirat Singh, Tirath Ram, Dharamvir Singh, Jobanjit Singh, Gurvinder Singh, Nitish Kaushal, Gurminder Singh Kang, Devender Singh, Karambir Gill, Rajeev Ranjan, Jobanpreet Singh, and Singh Dhesi.

Dupre said five other people  Amandeep Singh, Harmandeep Singh, Gursharn Singh, Grucharan Singh and Jaskaran Singh  have not yet been arrested.

Dupre said the accused have not had court appearances yet. Its not clear if they have attorneys yet who can speak on their behalf.

Dupre said the two syndicates were responsible for multiple shootings where 11 persons were shot at, including five at a Stockton Sikh temple on August 27, 2022, and two at a Sikh temple in Sacramento on March 23. None of the victims died. Dupre said all of the arrested persons are part of Californias Sikh community and were members of one of the two rival groups whose feud was fuelled by intense personal connections.

This started out as one group, and one faction broke off, and since then they have been rivals trying to outdo each other. Mainly they show up places and try to shoot each other, Dupre said, comparing it to the US Civil War where brothers were fighting against brothers. Dupre said the arrests are not related to the murders of a Sikh family last year in the San Joaquin Valley, which included the killings of an 8-month-old baby, the babys parents and an uncle.

Dupre said the violence began in 2018 at the annual Sikh parade in Yuba City, one of the largest South Asian festivals held outside of the Indian subcontinent. There, Dupre said, a man was beaten so hard with a sword that it broke. The violence soon escalated to shootings, including one at a wedding party in 2021.

The rash of violence attracted the attention of the Yuba-Sutter narcotic and gang enforcement task force, which launched an investigation with assistance from the FBI, the drug enforcement administration, and various other local, state and federal law enforcement agencies. The investigation intensified in March, when authorities learned of potential violence at a Sikh parade in Sacramento. Dupre said police stopped two cars before they reached the parade, arresting seven people and seizing four handguns and two other guns with large capacity magazines. A shooting still happened at the parade, injuring two people, but Dupre said a mass casualty incident was prevented.

If those weapons had gotten into the parade, it could have been a bloodbath, Dupre said. Altogether, Dupre said police seized 41 guns, including weapons such as AK-47, handguns, and at least one machine gun.

Yuba City, a city of nearly 70,000 people along the Feather River just north of Sacramento, has a large Sikh community.
The cyber cell of police has arrested three individuals and solved three cases of cyber fraud amounting to over 20 lakh. The fraudsters duped the victims by impersonating their friends residing overseas. The fraudsters duped the victims by impersonating their friends residing overseas. (iStock)

In the first case, Rakesh Pal, 26, from Madhya Pradesh, was arrested on April 15 in a case registered on September 30, 2022. The complainant, Prafulla Mohan Sinha of Sector 40, had said that he received a WhatsApp call from an unknown number and the caller posed as one of his friends in Australia.

As per police, the caller told the complainant that one of his friends, named Jaspal, in Kolkata was admitted in a private hospital and needed money for an operation. The caller sought the complainants account and said he would send 18 lakh to his account. He then shared a receipt for the said transaction and assured the complainant that the money would be credited to his account within 24 hours. Sinha then received a call from one Jaspal, who asked him to deposit 2.5 lakh in his account. On subsequent requests, Sinha deposit a total of 13.5 lakh in different accounts.

In the second case, Hanumat Singh Warkade, 25, of MP was arrested in relation to case registered on May 26, 2022. In his complaint, Gulzar Singh Sandhu of Sector 36, had alleged that the he had received an international call and the caller posed as a friends lawyer. The caller sought money by saying that Sandhus friend had assaulted a foreign national and needing the money. After transferring 4.30, Sandhu called his friend, only to find out that he had been duped.

In the third case, police arrested Amir Khan, 20, of MP in a case registered on November 29, 2022. Tarlochan Singh of Sector 44 had filed a complaint that he received a WhatsApp call on August 30, 2022, and the caller, posing as a friend, asked him for financial help as his ID was about to expire. He also sought a transfer of 4,30,000 to an account, which he claimed belonged to his lawyer. The victim deposited 2,50,000 to the accuseds account. The complainant found out that he had been duped when he called his friends wife for confirmation of payment.
After Friday prayers were disallowed at the citys historic Jamia Masjid on the occasion of Jummatul Vida or the final Friday of Ramadan, it is likely that the administration will not allow Eid-ul-Fitr prayers at the eidgah located in the old city. Friday prayers had earlier been disallowed at Srinagars historic Jamia Masjid on the occasion of Jummatul Vida or the final Friday of Ramadan. (HT File)

As per sources, police are unlikely to proceed with a go-ahead for the prayers at the eidgah amid apprehensions over the law-and-order situation in the city, especially on Eid-ul-Fitr, ahead of the planned G20 meetings next month.

A police official privy to the developments said, Srinagar has been very peaceful for many months, but we wont take any chances.

Notably, Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board president and senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Darakshan Andrabi and other senior officers had visited the eidgah earlier in the month and announced that Eid prayers will be held at the eidgah. Directions has also been issued to clean the eidgah in preparation for the prayers.

On the sidelines of a recent function, however, Jammu and Kashmir director general of police (DGP) Dilbag Singh said the announcement had been made by the Waqf board, but the divisional administration had not taken any decisions.

Last year, and up to now this year, the situation has remained peaceful. Here we have to balance things as per the situation. The divisional administration will take the final decision, Singh said.

Politicians from the region have criticised the decision of disallowing Friday prayers in Jamia Masjid at the eidgah, both located in the old city.

Speaking of the same, Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Conference spokesperson Adnan Mir said, Eidgah has been the site of prayers for decades, and it is unfortunate that the administration is not allowing prayers there this year. This should be unacceptable.

Apni Party president Altaf Bukhari also questioned the administration for not allowing Friday prayers at Jamia Masjid, saying, It is the inefficiency of administration. They should cease the moment and take the initiative of holding prayers at the eidgah as there is peace here.

Eid-ul-Fitr will be celebrated either on Friday or Saturday depending on the appearance of the moon. The biggest Eid congregation in Kashmir was being held at the eidgah, however, for the past several years.
As I sat reading a book in my favourite spot at home, I came across a thought that living means such simple things as seeing trees, hearing birds sing and saying hello to people. Profound, and sums up almost everything that one needs to know. Also, I have a couple of gifted items that have a similar short quote printed on them: Enjoy the little things. And per chance, whilst in my routine, I happen to come across those pieces print usually when most needed. The little things are countless, but we do need to develop an eye for the same. (HT File)

These little things are countless, but we do need to develop an eye for the same, for our minds are not always present with our physical presence; mentally we are either re-living our past(s) or worrying for the future. Pause, hold a second, smell the roses, take an afternoon nap, light a candle, tap your foot to the song on FM, hug a loved one They say now that the glass is neither half empty nor half full, actually it is refillable. So, rejoice!

Life will never be perfect, though striving for perfection is okay (and desirable). Then why not occasionally steal moments of bliss. Or let me correct that: Why not make bliss our permanent state of being? A friend recently hummed the song to me, Kabhi kisi ko mukkammal jahaan nahin milta, kahin zameen toh kahin aasmaan nahin milta. There will always be unfinished business, half-said good-byes, needs for closure etc. Let it be. Such lists dont mean that we cant enjoy the party that life can be. Yes, they are bound to keep raising their heads like a sinister snake; so, its imperative that we take adequate steps to counter them, too. However, dont let them occupy your life-space larger than required. They wont even pay you any rent! It will do to accept them and make efforts to eliminate or change them, and side-by-side, though it sounds contradictory, enjoy.

My mother tells me, how she would love blowing flower petals as a kid, my father reminisces playing with old dumped tyres and using tree branches as sticks to rotate those tyres. As children, we are naturally adept at relishing and cherishing anything and everything. So, let us retain that child-like spirit with the aid of these pointers:

Smile, is the universal language of love; use it abundantly. A smiling face is always beautiful and attractive, no matter what. Smiling ensures a pleasant feeling both for the giver and the receiver, so bestow it lavishly. Additionally, love life. No matter is huge enough to justify gloom. Melancholy anyway hampers the problem-solving ability, so make continuous attempts at being joyous and cheerful.

Secondly, dont be afraid of not knowing; for any knowing will always begin with not knowing. Retain a childs curiosity, both for the world within and world without. Awareness of ones inner being is the feat of few awakened ones. Keep making efforts in that direction.

Third, accept that you did and will make mistakes. But has anyone ever grown or developed without at least a few of them? Guilt trips suck our energy and enthusiasm; so, march on confidently, you never intended wrong.

Fourth, admire sunsets, sunrises, warm water, and company of precious ones. It actually works wonders to live as if it were the last day of your life: Then, would you stress over your pending chores or instead stroke your pet lovingly (maybe otherwise done only weekly)? Its within us, the capacity to elevate the secretion of happiness hormones (serotonin, endorphins, oxytocin and dopamine), so why look elsewhere? reemaban@gmail.com

(The writer is a Jagadhri-based freelance contributor.)
Haryana chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Tuesday directed the administrative secretaries to submit reports regarding the progress of pending development projects in all assembly segments falling under Ambala Lok Sabha constituency in the next 15 days. Haryana chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Tuesday directed the administrative secretaries to submit reports regarding the progress of pending development projects in all assembly segments falling under Ambala Lok Sabha constituency in the next 15 days. (HT file photo)

The chief minister reviewed the progress of development projects in areas under the Ambala Lok Sabha seat during a meeting attended by public representatives, eminent citizens of the constituency and administrative secretaries of various departments.

During the meeting that lasted for over four hours, eminent citizens apprised the CM of difficulties related to implementation of development projects and government schemes at the ground level. Home minister Anil Vij and education minister Kanwar Pal were also present during the meeting.

Ensure wheat is lifted promptly, officials told

Khattar directed the officials to ensure that wheat is lifted promptly from mandis after procurement. He said officers should also inspect the mandis and resolve issues by taking stock of the procurement arrangements on the spot.

The chief minister said that complaints and suggestions of the common people are received through the CM window, jan samvad portal and programmes. He said the meeting held on Tuesday was yet another step aimed at having a direct communication with eminent citizens and officials should give utmost priority to solving the problems.

Vij urges Centre to provide vaccine vial monitors

Haryana health and family welfare minister Anil Vij has urged the central government to provide vaccine vial monitors for drugs like anti-rabies vaccine, insulin and tetanus to ensure their storage at proper temperature.

A vial monitor is a thermochromic label put on vials containing vaccines which gives a visual indication of whether the vaccine has been kept at a temperature which preserves its potency.

Vij has written a letter to Union health and family welfare minister Mansukh Mandaviya, an official spokesperson said.

At present, only polio vaccine is being labelled with vial monitor indicator.

Vij said the food and drug administration (FDA) on Tuesday issued order to every licensee having licence on Form 20-B and Form 21-B to install a digital thermometer with data logger in the refrigerator in order to maintain proper storage conditions. This order stated that the premises should also have proper power backup to maintain the refrigerators in round-the-clock working condition.

Vij said cold storage (2 degrees to 8 degrees Celsius) is required for storage of drugs like anti-rabies vaccine, insulin, and tetanus toxoid. On the direction of the minister, the FDA teams have inspected 162 chemist shops, out of which 10 have been sealed where refrigerators were found turned off.
Fortune favours the brave. Hours after going missing above Camp IV of Mt Annapurna while descending from the summit point in Nepal, Indian climber from Himachal Pradesh Baljeet Kaur, 28, was found alive above 7,300m. Mountaineer Baljeet Kaur, 28, was rescued hours after going missing above Camp IV of Mt Annapurna in Nepal on Monday while she was descending from the top. She scaled the peak without using supplemental oxygen. (HT file photo)

Baljeet, who belongs to Plasta Panjrol village near Solan in Himachal Pradesh and is the first Indian mountaineer to scale four 8,000-metre peaks in less than a month, had gone out of radio contact on Monday. An aerial search mission was launched on Tuesday morning after she sent a radio signal asking for immediate help. Soon after, the search team located her and she was air-lifted.

Also read: President Murmu to start four-day Himachal visit today

Pasang Sherpa, the chairman of a company organising the expedition, was quoted by Kathmandu-based The Himalayan Times as saying that Baljeet had gone missing above Camp IV while descending from the top as she scaled the peak without using supplemental oxygen.

On her rescue on Tuesday, the company released a statement saying, We are thrilled to share that after being air-lifted from the mountain, Baljeet Kaur has safely arrived at Annapurna base camp and will soon be flown back to Kathmandu for medical examination. Baljeets accomplishment is truly remarkable, and we cant help but admire her courage, strength and determination. Her extensive training, skills and preparation have played an instrumental role in overcoming this daunting incident. We applaud her outstanding achievement and commend her for being an inspiration for all of us. We wish Baljeet a swift and complete recovery.

After news from Nepal of Noel Hanna, a 10-time Everest summiteer from Northern Ireland, breathing his last at Camp IV on returning from the summit point on Monday night, the spotlight shifted to Indian mountaineers Baljeet Kaur and Anurag Maloo, 34, from Kishangarh of Rajasthan, who had gone missing. While Baljeet went missing from above Camp IV on Annapurna, Anurag fell into a crevasse from around 6,000m. He was descending from Camp III in the same mountain on Monday and is still missing.

Fortunately, Baljeet was found alive on Tuesday morning.

Baljeet Kaur is the first Indian mountaineer to scale four 8,000-metre peaks in less than a month. (HT file photo)

She had tweeted a photo on April 9 in which she said shes in comfort zone, resting at the Annapurna base camp.

The daughter of a retired bus driver of Himachal Road Transport Corporation, Amrik Singh, and homemaker Shanti Devi, she set a record by becoming the first Indian woman and the youngest to summit Mount Manaslu without oxygen.

Mt Annapurna is the 10th-highest mountain in the world, standing at 8,091 metres above sea level.
Mohali deputy commissioner (DC) Aashika Jain has said that an online portal of Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in Mohali will soon be made operational. The administration will also buy an ambulance for the care of sick and injured animals. (HT File Photo)

The administration will also buy an ambulance for the care of sick and injured animals, she added.

Jain, while chairing a meeting with members of Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals at the district administrative complex here, appealed people to come forward in large numbers to take care of helpless animals. She also directed officials to rope in more volunteers.

The members of the society brought to her notice problems related to the care of helpless animals, which the DC assured to address soon.

She also ordered to prepare sheds for animals and appreciated the social service organisations working for the conservation of animals.

The deputy commissioner instructed officials that the online portal should focus on adding more members to the society.

She also directed that a separate uniform should be assigned for the members of the society so that people do not face any difficulty in reporting injured animals.

She informed that any information regarding the injured animals can be given on helpline number 73802-73902 of the Cow Gram Sewa Society.
The economic offences wing of Panchkula arrested two directors of a company for duping people of  23.21 lakh on the pretext of opening recurring deposits (RD) and fixed deposits (FD). A case was registered at Pinjore police station under Sections 406 and 420 of the IPC. (iStock)

The accused have been identified as Rakesh Sharma and Arun Kumar Sharma of Uttar Pradesh. The police said they are directors of Trinity Multistate Cooperative Credit Society Limited.

A complaint was lodged on June 1, 2021 by Vandana Sharma of Pinjore, who told the police that she worked in the firm in Barwala. She said she got 43 persons deposit  23.21 lakh as RDs and FDs in the company.

She said after the completion of the term of the deposits, when the investors demanded maturity amount, the company started delaying the same on one or the other pretext. They asked the investors to approach the companys main office in Lucknow. She said even the employees were not paid salary for about a year. A case was registered in Pinjore police station under Sections 406 and 420 of the IPC.

During investigation, the directors of the company were arrested on April 17. The accused were produced before the court and sent to eight-day police remand.
The Punjab and Haryana high court on Tuesday disposed of a plea of Surinderpal Singh Aujla, brother of NRI Gurinder Pal, alias Gur Aujla, the social media handler of radical Sikh preacher Amritpal Singh, who is on the run. Punjab and Haryana high court building in Chandigarh. (HT File Photo)

He had demanded a lawyer of his choice and permission for his family to meet Aujla in the Dibrugarh jail of Assam.

The government told the HC that in case an appropriate application is made to the district magistrate, Amritsar, by the lawyer of the detenue or his relative, the same would be considered and decided in accordance with law. In view of this, the plea was disposed of by the court.

As per the police, after a crackdown against Amritpal Singh was launched, Aujla was detained at the Amritsar airport, when he was trying to flee abroad.
Asserting that there was no place for muscle power even if allegations of desecration of Sikh religious literature are true against an Amritsar publisher, the Punjab and Haryana high court has directed the home secretary that he be provided with adequate security. The Punjab and Haryana high court. (HT File Photo)

The HC bench of justice Sudhir Mittal acted on the March 4 plea of Harbhajan Singh and Satinder Kaur, who are the owners of M/s Bhai Chatar Singh Jiwan Singh, a publishing house having its operations near the Golden Temple. Established in 1880, it is stated to be the oldest publishing house of Sikh religious books.

In the plea, they had alleged that some religious leaders, along with their supporters, started a protest outside the shop and threatened the publishers claiming that the firm disrespected Sikh religious material at the printing press. They also alleged that the local administration and police colluded with the protesters.

The HC observed that it appears that on account of the business activities of the petitioners, they are being threatened by hard-line religious groups having no official status. A dharna was held by such elements outside the shop of the petitioners and an incident of firing took place, which is being termed as a case of accidental firing by the police, the court said adding that even though police claimed it was an accident, it also could have caused loss of life and damage to property.

The court said, ...assuming that the petitioners are desecrating religious literature action can only be taken in accordance with the law and not through force and muscle power. Thus, apprehension expressed by the petitioners appears to be genuine. The HC directed the home secretary to ensure that a real threat assessment is carried out and adequate security is provided to the petitioners. It also said that security given to the petitioners be reviewed timely to balance public interest as well as their interest.

The police registered a criminal case against the publisher for hurting religious sentiments and had also claimed that security had been provided. It was also submitted that the dharna had now been lifted. However, the petitioners countered the claims of security cover.
Raj Jit Singh  the first SSP-rank Punjab Police officer to be sacked on drug charges  colluded with smugglers, framed innocent persons in false cases and ran extortion racket/s, reveal the dismissal orders. Raj Jit Singh  the first SSP-rank Punjab Police officer to be sacked on drug charges  colluded with smugglers, framed innocent persons in false cases and ran extortion racket/s, reveal the dismissal orders. (HT File Photo)

The orders issued by additional chief secretary (Home) Anurag Verma

(and accessed by HT) clearly mention that Raj jit abused and misused his official position to mint money in NDPS cases.

The contents of all the three reports submitted by SIT in compliance of the orders of Punjab & Haryana high court prove that Raj Jit Singh and dismissed inspector Inderjit Singh were in cahoots. The duo was instrumental in spread of drug menace in the state by extending help to the drug peddlers/smugglers, said the ACS orders.

50 NDPS samples failed when Raj Jit was Tarn Taran SSP

The orders said during the tenure of Raj Jit Singh as Tarn Taran SSP and Inderjit Singh as CIA in-charge, more than 50 samples in NDPS cases failed which shows that the two did not leave any stone unturned to hijack the government machinery to fulfil their vested interests.

Raj Jit Singh abused his official position to shield the drug peddlers/ smugglers from the clutches of law, implicated innocent persons in false drug cases and also managed to scuttle the investigations in the FIRs registered against Inderjit Singh, the orders said.

Quoting SIT findings about transfer of Inderjit, firstly to Taran Taran and thereafter to Hoshiarpur, on recommendation of Raj Jit and his act of writing DO (demi official/recommendation) letters in formers favour despite criminal cases and departmental inquiries pending against the tainted inspector, the dismissal orders state that Raj Jit was well aware of the technicalities involved in the cases registered under the NDPS Act and together with Inderjit used these as tools to help drug peddlers/smugglers escape the stringent punishment and secure bail/acquittal.

The retention of such an official in the police department, which is an integral part of justice delivery system and is also responsible for protecting the society and the nation, will not be desirable, the orders issued on the recommendation of chief minister Bhagwant Mann revealed.

Instrumental in promoting anti-national activities

Justifying the dismissal in the order, the ACS (Home) said Punjab is a border state and the neighbouring country is actively engaged in promoting narco-terrorism and disturbing peace and harmony in the state and the country as well.

The money generated from the supply of drugs is used to fund criminal and anti-national activities in the state and there is close nexus between drug peddlers/smugglers, gangsters and other anti-social elements. Raj Jit, in a way, had been instrumental in promoting such anti-national and illegal activities by abusing his official position in complicity with Inderjit, it said.

The orders claim that Raj Jit was given full opportunity to defend himself and his statement was also recorded.

The reports of the SIT are well reasoned and supported by documentary evidence which are self-speaking in nature and are sufficient to draw inference against Raj Jit and leave no scope for any further inquiry, particularly when the SIT had already submitted its reports in the year 2018 and a period of about five years has already elapsed, it said.

Whereas the SIT has collected sufficient evidence against Raj Jit, the charges of running drug and extortion rackets in conspiracy with Inderjit have been proved. The misconduct committed by Raj Jit is grave in nature which does not entitle him to any leniency and he deserves to be awarded major penalty as his conduct is most egregious, the orders added further.

STF issued lookout circular

The special task force (STF) on Tuesday issued a lookout circular (LOC) against Raj Jit who is facing arrest as chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has directed the police to nominate the dismissed cop in drug case. Raj Jit has gone underground since his dismissal. Following the CMs directions, the STF has started the process to nominate Raj Jit in FIR No 1 registered against dismissed cop Inderjit related to recovery of 4 kg of heroin in 2017.

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The battle lines have been drawn for Shimla municipal corporation (SMC) elections, slated for May 2, with a total of 109 candidates set to contest across 34 wards. As many as 87 candidates filed papers on the final day of nomination filing for Shimla MC polls. (HT File)

As many as 87 candidates filed papers on the final day of nomination filing on Tuesday. Earlier on Monday, 22 candidates had filed nominations.

Shimla additional magistrate (ADM) Rahul Chauhan said the scrutiny of nomination papers will be done on Wednesday. The last date for withdrawing nominations is April 21. The final list of candidates will be issued and election symbols declared on the same day after the deadline for withdrawal ends at 3 pm.

Congress and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have fielded candidates in all 34 wards, while the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) are contesting in 22 and four wards respectively.

Fifteen independent candidates including a prominent BJP rebel and member of the outgoing civic body are also in the fray.

There is a direct contest between Congress and BJP in 10 wards.

SMC remained a Congress stronghold till 2012, when it was first breached by CPI-M in the direct elections to mayor and deputy mayors posts. The partys Sanjay Chauhan was elected mayor and Tikender Sigh Panwar as deputy mayor at the time.

The BJP wrested the SMC in 2017 and later, the Jai Ram Thakur-led state government increased the number of wards from 34 to 41. The Congress, however, reversed the decision and delimitation of wards was done again after the party came to power in 2022.

The five-year term of the SMC ended in June 2022, but the elections could not be held due to court cases challenging the delimitation of wards.

Polling will be held on May 2 and the result will be declared two days later on May 4.

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Registration for the 62-day-long Shri Amarnathji Yatra got off to an enthusiastic start at the winter capital as well as various branches of designated banks across the country. People getting themselves registered for the Amarnath Yatra 2023, in Jammu. (ANI)

Pilgrims converged at designated branches including Punjab National Banks Rehari Chungi branch. Bank manager Ashwani Kumar, Registration for the annual Shri Amarnath yatra started today, for which PNB has set up special counters at 316 branches of the PNB across the country. The intended pilgrim has to bring a health certificate from authorised hospitals along with their Aadhar card.

This year Aadhaar-based registration is being done wherein a thumb scan of the pilgrim is required for registration, which has started for both the Pahalgam track in the Anantnag district and Baltal in the Ganderbal district.

Registration can be done both online and offline at 542 banks across the country including 316 branches of Punjab National Bank, 90 branches of Jammu and Kashmir Bank, 37 branches of Yes Bank and 99 branches of SBI Bank.

As per the guidelines, individuals aged between 13-70 can register for the yatra. A health certificate is a must. Women with a pregnancy of 6 weeks or over are not allowed to undertake the yatra.

I am happy to note that this year the yatra is 62 days long. It will enable more pilgrims to undertake the pilgrimage and pay their obeisance at the cave shrine, said Astha Sharma.

Another pilgrim said, I have been visiting the cave shrine for the past five years. The government has made elaborate arrangements for the comfort of pilgrims on Baltal and Pahalgam routes.

On March 14, Jammu and Kashmir lieutenant governor, Manoj Sinha, while announcing the dates for the holy pilgrimage, said the administration was committed to ensuring a smooth and hassle-free pilgrimage.

The yatra will commence on July 1 this year and culminate on August 31.
Delhi's Patiala House Court on Tuesday granted seven days of custody of Lawrence Bishnoi to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in a terror funding to pro-Khalistani outfits-related case. Gangster Lawrence Bishnoi. (HT File Photo)

"Seven days of custody have been granted. The court has also allowed the legal meetings of the council during custody," Advocate Vishal Chopra told ANI.

Special NIA judge Shailendra Malik after hearing the submissions of NIA and defence counsel granted seven days of custody of Bishnoi to the NIA.

Earlier in the day, Principal District and Sessions Judge transferred the case related to Lawrence Bishnoi to the Special NIA court.

NIA sought 7 days of custody of Lawrence Bishnoi to confront one arrested accused Deepak Ranga in the matter.

District Judge Dharmesh Sharma transferred the case after hearing the submissions of defence counsel Vishal Chopra.

He submitted that a similar case is pending before a special NIA case. The agency has not been apprised of this fact by the court. Both cases should be heard in one court only.

On Monday, the court directed the authorities to keep Lawrence Bishnoi in Tihar Jail and produce him before it tomorrow.

He was to be produced before the court in an NIA case. He was being brought from Bathinda Jail, Punjab.

The court of Principal District and Sessions judge Dharmesh Sharma was informed that Punjab Police and other agencies are on the way to Delhi and won't be able to reach here within Court hours.

Thereafter the court ordered to take him to Jail and produce him tomorrow morning before the court.

The court has also directed the jail authorities to ensure the safety and security of Lawrence Bishnoi as he is a high-risk accused.

The court on April 11, issued a production warrant to produce Lawrence Bishnoi in a case registered by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) under section related to Waging war against the State, conspiracy to wage war against the State, sections 17, 18, 18 B and 38 of Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA).

The above case is pending before the NIA court.

On the other hand, Lawrence Bishnoi accused in the Siddhu Moosewala murder case was arrested by the Punjab police last year.
There was no application of mind in debarring PhD student Lokesh Chugh from taking exams for a year over his alleged involvement in the disturbance during the screening of BBC documentary Modi: The India Question on campus, the Delhi high court said on Tuesday while asking Delhi University to provide him proper reasoning for the action. The two-part documentary by BBC titled India: The Modi Question aired in January (AFP Photo)

Also Read | BBC drama: High court notice to Delhi University on students plea

The documentary on the 2002 Gujarat riots when Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the state chief minister was screened on university campuses across the country even as the government slammed it as propaganda.

There has to be an independent application of mind by the University. It is not reflected in the [debarment] order. You are a statutory body. You are a University...The impugned order does not show the application of the mind. It must have reflected why you are coming to the conclusion. You file your counter because you seek to rely on certain material. That material must be supplied to the petitioner, said Justice Purushaindra Kaurav while hearing Chughs plea against the debarment.

Also Read | BBC documentary: Students detained during protest over Delhi University action

The court granted the university three days to file its response and posted the matter for hearing next on April 24. On April 13, the court issued a notice to the university and asked it to respond to Chughs plea.

Chugh has sought permission to take exams and challenged a show cause notice issued to him in February for his alleged involvement in the disturbance of law and order during the screening.

Chugh argued he neither facilitated nor participated in the screening. Notably, the petitioner was neither detained nor charged with any form of incitement or violence or disturbance of the peace by the police, Chugh said in his plea.

Chugh said despite replying to the notice detailing his absence from the spot and submitting his thesis in March, he was debarred.

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Was Arvind Kejriwal party to the decision taken at his residence to increase the profit margin for liquor wholesalers from 5% to 12%, officers of the Central Bureau of Investigation asked the Delhi chief minister during his preliminary questioning as a witness in the Delhi liquor policy scam, officials familiar with the matter said. Delhi chief minister of Arvind Kejriwal arrives for special session of Delhi legislative assembly on Monday. The Central Bureau of Investigation questioned him in connection with the Delhi excise policy. (Raj K Raj/HT Photo)

Also Read: Kejriwal questioned by CBI in excise case

The convener of the Aam Aadmi Party was interrogated by the federal agency on Sunday. Kejriwal was asked why there was need to change the old liquor policy, why approvals were given after the Delhi cabinet cleared the policy in April 2021 and why the new policy was withdrawn after the Delhi lieutenant governor recommended a CBI probe, the officials added, seeking anonymity.

CBI has not disclosed Kejriwals answers, but it issued a statement on Monday, saying his replies will be verified and collated with the available evidence.

Kejriwal, during questioning that lasted nine hours, was asked 56 questions by CBI sleuths seeking insights into an alleged conspiracy in which it is claimed that bribes worth 100 crore was paid to AAP leaders for favouring certain liquor wholesalers, retailers and politicians from south India.

A specific question, according to an officer, was put to Kejriwal about the profit margin, which according to statement recorded by former deputy chief minister Manish Sisodias secretary C Arvind, was increased from 5% to 12% for wholesalers. The decision was conveyed to him at Kejriwals residence in mid-March 2021, C Arvind is believed to have said during his questioning.

Also Read: Delhi assembly passes resolution against misuse of CBI, ED

It was important to know if the chief minister was party to the decision, which had never been discussed earlier. The old policy had a 5% profit margin. In fact, a draft note dated March 15, 2021, of the group of ministers formed by Delhi government, found from Manish Sisodias computer, capped the profit margin at 5%. However, the final draft of GoM given by Sisodia to C Arvind at the CMs residence had an increased margin of 12%, one of the officials said.

Former excise commissioner Arava Gopi Krishna is said to have claimed during his interrogation that the 12% profit margin was fixed for wholesalers by the ministerial group without any previous discussion or recommendation by the expert committee, this officer added.

Kejriwals questioning also revolved around ex post-facto decisions taken by the Delhi cabinet in 2021, after the lieutenant governor advised the government to re-examine the policy. The CBI also asked Kejriwal as to who came up with the idea of changing the old excise policy and why it was withdrawn in July 2022 end, days after the lieutenant governor recommended a probe in it, according to a second officer.

Another question put before Kejriwal focused on the Delhi governments decision to fully introduce private players in the liquor business, as no such recommendation was made by an expert committee led by former excise commissioner R K Dhawan.

Also Read: Manish Sisodia's judicial custody in CBI, ED excise policy cases extended

In fact, the GoM comprising Manish Sisodia, Satyendar Jain and Kailash Gehlot never had any discussions until mid-March 2021 about private players. So, the CM was asked how suddenly it was decided to hand over the entire liquor trade to private parties, the second officer said.

Kejriwal was also asked about Vijay Nair, AAPs communications in-charge, leading the discussions with private players before and after the tendering process and about his alleged conversation with arrested businessman Sameer Mahendru over FaceTime on Nairs phone.

After his questioning, Kejriwal said on Sunday that the allegations of scam were fake and baseless and inspired by dirty politics. AAP is hardcore honest, the Delhi chief minister said. Hardcore honesty is our basic ideology, and we will never compromise with it. This is the reason they want to throw mud at us.

The second reason is that they (the Bharatiya Janata Party) do not like the good work done in Delhi and Punjab. They cannot do the good work that we are doing. We are expanding. They want to finish the AAP. It cannot be done, the people of the country are with us, Kejriwal added.

Also Read: CBI questions Kejriwal in Excise Policy case, here's what central agency said

The Delhi governments 2021-22 excise policy aimed to revitalise the citys flagging liquor business. It aimed to replace a sales-volume based regime with a license fee one for traders, and promised swankier stores, free of the infamous metal grilles, ultimately giving customers a better buying experience. The policy also introduced discounts and offers on the purchase of liquor, a first for Delhi.

The plan, however, came to an abrupt end, with Delhis lieutenant governor Vinai Kumar Saxena recommending a probe into alleged irregularities in the regime. This ultimately resulted in the policy being scrapped prematurely and being replaced by the 2020-21 regime, with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) alleging that Saxenas predecessor sabotaged the move with a few last-minute changes that resulted in lower-than-expected revenues.

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A SpiceJet flight from Delhi to Srinagar had to turn back mid-air and make an emergency landing at Delhis Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport on Tuesday morning after a technical snag led to the fire light illuminating, indicating a possible fire in the aft cargo (rear) of the aircraft. The flight, carrying around 140 passengers on board, landed safely at the airport, however, no fire or smoke was detected later on during an inspection. A SpiceJet spokesperson said that the aircraft landed safely and the 140 passengers on board were deplaned normally. (Representative Image)

On April 18, SpiceJet B737 aircraft operating flight SG-8373 (Delhi-Srinagar) returned to Delhi as the aft cargo fire light illuminated in the cockpit. The light later extinguished upon actions taken by the captain. Before landing, all operational parameters were observed to be normal and the aircraft landed safely and passengers were deplaned normally. Subsequently, upon opening of aft Cargo no sign of fire or smoke was found and based on initial assessment, the warning was observed to be false, said a SpiceJet spokesperson.

An airport official confirmed the same, stating the air traffic control (ATC) tower received the request for a full emergency landing at 10.40 am. The flight, heading to Srinagar, made a return and had around 140 passengers on board. It was given a priority landing at 10.46am and the flight landed safely, with it reaching the parking bay for further inspection. the official said.

The airport had seen a full emergency landing on Saturday too, this time for an IndiGo flight 6E  6282, which made a return to the airport after taking off for Bagdogra. The flight landed safely at around 3.30pm, with the airline stating that there had been a technical snag while the flight was in the air.
Speculations are rife in West Bengal that Mukul Roy, one of the founding members of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), is likely to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) once again after he was spotted in Delhi on Monday night, hours after his son and TMC leader Subhranshu lodged a complaint with the Bidhannagar police claiming that his father was missing. TMC leader Mukul Roy. (ANI File Photo)

The rumours of Roy joining the BJP were fuelled by a social media post by Anupam Hazra, BJPs national general secretary and a former member of Parliament, who wrote the return on Tuesday. Anything may happen in politics. Please wait to see, Hazra told the media.

Cant I come to Delhi? I am an MP and MLA. There is no special reason behind my Delhi visit, Roy was seen telling a woman at the Delhi airport.

Meanwhile, the Kolkata airport police have started a probe on the basis of the missing diary lodged by the leaders son. A local BJP leader Piyush Kanoria was also summoned for questioning.

After leaving his home, Roy headed for Kolkata airport and boarded a flight for Delhi around 7.45pm. Subhranshu said two people had taken the veteran politician to the national capital without informing the family. While one was Mukuls driver, another was his attendant.

Subhranshu said that after his father left for Delhi, he remained untraceable as his phone was switched off. The mobile phones of both the driver and the attendant were also switched off. He also said that an agency in Delhi had sent 50,000 to Mukul though one person. He didnt have any money. Where did he get the money to buy air tickets? he said.

HT tried to get in touch with Mukul Roy. While one of his phones was switched off, another was not reachable.

Subhranshu told the media on Tuesday morning that dirty politics was being played with his ailing father and efforts were on to malign Abhishek Banerjee, TMCs national general secretary and chief minister Mamata Banerjees nephew.

My father is almost 70 years old, and suffers from multiple ailments including dementia and Parkinsons disease. He had to undergo surgery and takes 18 medicines every day. Dirty politics is being played with him. The target is to malign Abhishek Banerjee, the son said.

He said that Mamata Banerjee has been apprised of the developments and she is closely monitoring it. She had called twice to enquire, he said.

Whether he is ill or fit, whether he is mentally sound or unsound, whether he is with the TMC or BJP are high level discussions. It is not possible for a small spokesperson like for me to comment, Kunal Ghosh, TMC spokesperson, told the media.

Roy joined the BJP in 2017 after he was named as an accused in the Narada sting operation case and his fallout with chief minister Mamata Banerjee. He was also suspended from the party for six years. Soon after he joined the BJP, he was made its national vice-president. In 2021, he, however, returned to the TMC after winning the assembly elections on a BJP ticket. His son followed in his footsteps.
Crude bombs were hurled in a bylane near the residence of one of the lawyers of slain gangster-turned-politician Atiq Ahmad on Tuesday. Gangster-turned-politician Atiq Ahmad. (HT PHOTO)

There are no reports of any casualty in the explosion that occurred at around 2.30 pm in Katra locality of Prayagraj.

Ram Mohan Rai, station house officer (SHO), Colonelganj police station, said Atiq's lawyer Dayashankar Mishra was not the target and the incident was a fallout of personal enmity between two youths. However, the lawyer claimed that it was an effort to intimidate him for representing Atiq and Ashraf.



I don't want to wrongfully name anyone. But I have doubts that this drama has been staged to scare me, Mishra told reporters.



Atiq Ahmad and Ashraf were gunned down at point blank range while being taken for a medical test last Saturday. While Atiq received nine bullets in his head and chest, his brother Ashraf was shot five times.



On Tuesday, Atiq's another lawyer Vijay Mishra claimed that a letter written by the gangster and enclosed in a sealed envelope is on its way to reach the Chief Justice of India and the Uttar Pradesh chief minister.



That letter in a sealed envelope is neither with me nor sent by me. It is kept somewhere else and being sent by some other person, he had said.



ALSO READ: Yogi Adityanath's warning after Atiq Ahmad's killing: Now, mafia can't...'



This comes a day after Mishra had said Ashraf claimed to have been threatened by a senior police official that he and his elder brother would be taken out of the jail and eliminated.



The Uttar Pradesh government has set up a three-member judicial commission led by a retired Allahabad high court judge to probe the killing. The panel will submit its report in the next two months.

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The second day of G20 MACS (Meeting of Agricultural Chief Scientists) witnessed deliberations on digital agriculture and sustainable agri value chain and public-private partnership in agricultural research between delegations of India and France, in Varanasi on Tuesday. Delegates during one of the sessions on the second day of G20 MACS in Varanasi on Tuesday (HT Photo)

According to an official communique, one of the sessions discussed Indias Millets and Other Ancient Grains International Research Initiative (MAHARISHI) initiative. Representatives from the G20 countries and international organisations supported the initiative by stating that international research cooperation was pivotal for the promotion and adoption of millets.

Dr Himanshu Pathak, secretary of the Department of Agricultural Research and Education, and Philippe Mauguin, chair and CEO of Frances INRAE (National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment) led their respective delegations in the bilateral meeting between India and France.

Both countries expressed keen interest in cooperation in the areas of climate change, crop diversification, soil and water conservation, natural farming, and biofortified crops.

The discussion on digital agriculture was led by Dr. Pathak.

Earlier, in a bilateral meeting with the UNs Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Dr Pathak emphasised that the extension service through Krishi Vigyan Kendras to farmers would be a key area for cooperation.

FAOs Dr. Ishmahane Elouafi (chief scientist) and Dr Selvaraju Ramasamy (senior agriculture officer) recognized Indias strength in the seed sector.

The delegates also visited Saranath to witness a light and sound show in the evening. About 80 foreign delegates from G20 member states, international organizations and special Invitees are participating in the meeting.

Public-private alliance can strengthen agri sector: Expert

Public-private partnerships have emerged as an effective way to address the challenges in agriculture. These partnerships can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of research and development by combining the strengths and resources of both the sectors, observed Dr Jean Balie, the director general, of the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), Philippines.

Dr Balie was speaking at a session during the G20 Meeting of Agricultural Chief Scientists (MACS) in Varanasi on the second day of the three-day event on Tuesday. The meeting discussed the conditions, gaps, best practices, and opportunities for effective public-private partnerships in agricultural research and development.

Dr Balie drew the guests attention to IRRIs efforts and experiences in generating innovations and accelerating impact.

Private sector involvement can provide the necessary funding and expertise to develop, commercialise, and scale new technologies and innovations. Moreover, partnerships can promote knowledge sharing and capacity building, thus enhancing the overall productivity and sustainability of the agricultural sector, he added.

IRRI works toward finding solutions for the worlds biggest challenges and contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
The preparations in the state of Uttar Pradesh are in full swing as it looks forward to its urban local body elections, to be held in less than a month and is seen as a crucial political exercise to gauge public sentiments of urban voters ahead of 2024 Lok Sabha elections. As of the deadline on Monday, more than 51,000 people filed nominations for various posts for phase one of the election. Out of these, nearly half, over 26,634 nominations were submitted on Monday alone. The final voters list for the local body elections will be published on April 1. The provisional list was announced on Friday.(HT_PRINT)

The elections will be held on May 4 and 11, and the counting of votes will be done on May 13.

Also Read: AAP aims to make a mark in Uttar Pradesh civic polls

Everything you need to know about the key civic body poll:

The Uttar Pradesh State Election Commission announced last week that elections will take place for a total of 14,684 posts. State election commissioner Manoj Kumar, giving details, said out of these posts 17 seats of mayoral positions. This is an increase in the number of posts  one more than in 2017, with Shahjahanpur set to elect its first mayor in the upcoming election.

Kumar also said elections will be held for 1,420 posts of corporator, 199 of nagar palika parishad chairperson, 5,327 of nagar palika parishad member, 544 of nagar panchayat chairperson and 7,178 seats of nagar panchayat member.

This time, there has been an increase of 107 local bodies as compared to 2017  with the addition of one municipal corporation, one municipal council and 105 nagar panchayats.

In a major boost for women representation in the political domain, the number of seats reserved for women has gone up from 255 to 288 this time. Of the 17 mayoral positions, five are reserved for women. These are Lucknow, Kanpur and Ghaziabad, Agra for women (SC) and Firozabad for women (OBC).

The first phase of the election scheduled on May 4, will take place in 37 districts. The second phase of the election on May 11, will go to voting in 38 districts. While, Saharanpur, Moradabad, Agra, Jhansi, Prayagraj, Lucknow, Devipatan, Gorakhpur and Varanasi divisions would go to polls in the first phase, 38 districts of Meerut, Bareilly, Aligarh, Kanpur, Chitrakoot, Ayodhya, Basti, Azamgarh and Mirzapur will hold the election in the second phase.

Kumar also informed that 23,617 polling booths and 7,362 polling centres have been set up to hold voting for 390 local urban bodies comprising 7,288 wards in phase one.

An estimated 4.23 crore voters are eligible to cast their votes in the upcoming poll  a 96.33 lakh increase from 2017. Out of these 2,40,09,810 (2.4 crore) voters will exercise their franchise in the first phase.

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Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on Monday said the Shiv Sena (undivided) maintained a relationship with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for nearly three decades but still the BJP could not understand their friendship and betrayed the Sena. Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray with Congress leaders at Matoshree in Mumbai on Monday.

Thackerays comments came after he met with several Congress leaders, including party general secretary KC Venugopal, on Monday at his residence Matoshree in Mumbai, as the Congress ramps up its efforts to build national unity within the opposition ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Thackeray accused the BJP of misusing federal agencies against the opposition parties while asserting their alliance would fight to save the democracy in the country.

We maintained a relationship with the BJP for 25-30 years, but they did not understand who was a friend and who was an opponent. We will together fight the fight for democracy in the country, the former Maharashtra chief minister said. The Sena and the BJP first came together in 1994.

He added that the BJPs efforts to topple opposition governments is the biggest betrayal to all the other parties. Last time when BJP chief JP Nadda came to Mumbai, he said that there will be only one party and that's BJP. This is the biggest betrayal to all other parties. The way they tried to finish Shiv Sena, and betrayed the party, theyre trying to do the same with other parties too, Thackeray said.

Also Read: Rahul Gandhi may meet Uddhav Thackeray in Mumbai soon

The Shiv Sena spiralled into a political crisis after CM Eknath Shinde led a rebellion with the BJP last year that fractured the party and ousted Thackeray.

Meanwhile, in their meeting, Venugopal also invited Thackeray to meet senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi in Delhi.

In a reaction to the meeting, Union minister Anurag Thakur said that the people will never accept the Mahathagbadhan". All corrupt parties are trying to take each other's help but people have never supported them and never will, the minister said.

Thakur also commented on the speculation of a possible alliance between the Nationalist Congress Party and the BJP. In politics "discussions keep happeningsome news should be enjoyed, he told the reporters.

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The Maharashtra government will buy two lakh vials of COVID-19 vaccines from Bharat Biotech amid a rise in cases, an official said on Monday. Covovax is the fourth Covid vaccine that has been approved for emergency use in the concerned age group. (AFP)

As an exceptional case, the state government issued an order relaxing some conditions for the procurement of the vials of the vaccines, he said.

"As per the order, the Maharashtra government will buy two lakhs of vials of COVID-19 vaccine from the Hyderabad-based Bharat Biotech at the rate of 341.25 per vial. Administrative approval has been given for the procurement of the vials at a total cost of 6.82 crore," he said.
Mumbai: The Bombay high court on Tuesday granted permission to Anita Goyal, wife of Naresh Goyal  the founder of Jet Airways  to travel to Dubai and said that Naresh Goyals application to travel abroad would be heard in June. However, the division bench of Justice Revati Mohite Dere and Justice Sharmila Deshmukh expressed their displeasure over the protracted investigation, which was going on since 2019. There has to be closure in cases. You cannot go on endlessly with an investigation, noted the bench. (HT PHOTO)

The couple approached the HC seeking cancellation of the look out circulars (LOC) issued against them and were seeking permission to travel to Dubai to visit their son and family for a month.

The application stated that as the police had filed a closure report in the FIR registered against them in 2020 as well as the ECIR filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) was also quashed and since they had cooperated with the investigation agencies, the purpose of the LOCs was served and hence it should be quashed.

The application also sought the return of the couples passport stating that Naresh Goyal was 74 years old and hence he and his wife should be permitted to travel abroad.

While opposing the application, advocate Hiten Venegaonkar for the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) submitted that the probe in the case was likely to conclude in September this year and hence the interim application should not be allowed.

However, the division bench of Justice Revati Mohite Dere and Justice Sharmila Deshmukh expressed their displeasure over the protracted investigation, which was going on since 2019. There has to be closure in cases. You cannot go on endlessly with an investigation, noted the bench.

Venegaonkar submitted that the magnitude of the fraud was large, and Naresh Goyal was not cooperating with the probe. He, however, added that though SFIO was opposing the duo travelling together, it had permitted Anita Goyal to travel alone.

Venegaonkar added that the SFIO was opposing Naresh Goyals application as he had properties in foreign locations and also had a bailable warrant issued against him for not responding to summons issued to him in the case.

Senior advocates Ravi Kadam and Aabad Ponda for Goyals submitted that the adjudicating authority under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) had permitted the return of their passport last year and as the ECIR against them in the money laundering case was also quashed on February 23, hence, the central agency had no right to withhold their passports.

However, advocate Shreeram Shirsat for ED submitted that Naresh Goyal could submit arguments before the appellate authority which the agency would move for staying the adjudicating authoritys order.

After hearing the submissions, the bench noted that as the said application would have to be heard at length, the hearing will be adjourned to June but added that SFIO was not opposing Anita Goyals travel and it would permit her to travel from April 20 onwards for a month.

All LOCs against her imposed by SFIO, ED and SBI stand suspended for the month, the bench noted.
MUMBAI: When police constable Pradeep Jagdale, from Vakola police station, questioned an auto driver on Monday for refusing rides to multiple passengers, an argument ensued between the two. The drivers brother also joined in and despite Jagdale flashing his identity card, the two men assaulted him. One of the two accused even attacked him wearing metal knuckle-dusters, leaving the cop with bruised lips and head injuries. Why traffic police in city are getting roughed up by shameless offenders

The accused -- Arif Saddamali Sheikh, 33, and Yusuf Saddamali Sheikh, 32  were taken into custody the same day. They were produced in court on Tuesday and remanded in police custody. The two have done time, after a murder case was registered by the Ghatkopar police in 2015.

This is the third attack on a policeman in less than a week.

On Friday, a 20-year-old woman driving a scooter on the wrong side in Ghatkopar East almost ran over a female traffic constable when she tried to stop the motorist.

The next day, in Navi Mumbai, a 23-year-old man dragged a traffic cop on the bonnet of his car for 18 kilometers, allegedly under the influence of psychotropic substances. The incident on Palm Beach Road occurred when the cop tried to stop the driver of the car from jumping a signal.

A cop who was assaulted by an inebriated man in the past, said such instances are known to occur by people under the influence of narcotics and alcohol. Once the effect of the substance starts waning, we see the very same people who had displayed bravado, asking for forgiveness. The young offenders plead for mercy and also ask us not to register an offence to protect future career opportunities, he said.

Last month, a traffic cop posted at the Kurla Depot signal on the busy LBS Road was badly thrashed by two men after he took the picture of their vehicle for an e-challan. He was repeatedly pushed by the men on the bikes parked nearby  the video of the incident went viral.

Joint police commissioner (traffic) Pravin Padwal said the assaults on traffic police had peaked around 2015-16. After that we started providing our officers with body cameras  the attacks have reduced since then, he said.

Architect, academician and transportation analyst Jagdeep Desai believes that police, especially those manning traffic, should introduce a buddy system, instead of stationing just one officer at a junction. Even when while levying fines for traffic offences, they just issue e-challans instead of arguing and negotiating with people, he said.

Desai felt that citizens tend to become aggressive on the streets when they see a traffic cop approaching, thinking they are out there for a bribe. This, he said, has left people devoid of the fear and respect for cops.

An offender is often emboldened to repeat an offence. Unlike in Mumbai, drivers in cities where the rules are enforced strictly, the drivers are disciplined irrespective of the presence of cops, Desai said.

Social activist Nirmal Thakker who has worked closely with Mulund police on several issues in the locality agrees that the police force has become lax. Police often do not take action on petty offences such as blasting music late into the night or construction activity going on at odd hours. This leads people to perceive the policemen as defenseless and harmless, he said. On the one hand, there is no fear among repeated offenders and lack of respect towards the law enforcers.

Peoples rude behaviour towards cops also reflects their social conditioning. Financial troubles and work related stresses also tend to impact how they behave on the streets, said a retired IPS officer. However, the rise in recent cases is aligned with the rise in population in the last decade.

Cops under attack

April 18: Two auto drivers arrested by Vakola police after they allegedly assaulted an on-duty policeman in Santacruz East.

April 16: A 23-year-old man dragged a traffic constable for 18 kilometers on the bonnet of his car in Navi Mumbais Palm Beach Road.

April 15: A woman traffic constable from Vikhroli division was abused and assaulted by a 20-year-old who was driving on the wrong side of the road.

March 15: A drunk man assaulted a cop in the early hours when he was asked to return home.

March 6: Shriram Pawar, a constable with the Bandra division of Mumbai Traffic Police, was assaulted after seizing a scooter from a no parking zone.

February 28: Constable Satyavan Sonawane suffered several injuries including a fracture in his finger when he tried to stop a motorcyclist who was driving triple seat without a helmet.

February 28: Traffic police constable Suresh Jadhav, from Kalbadevi Traffic Division, was dragged by a 24-year-old speeding biker. The rider stopped for a moment when Jadhav caught him by his collar after which he tried fleeing, dragging the cop on duty along with him.
Mumbai: The New Horizon Scholars School, on Godhbundar Road, Thane, decided to remind parents of around five to eight students about an approaching deadline to pay the charges for their diaries and identity cards by asking the students to write I will not forget to bring 300 tomorrow 30 times on Monday. The deadline for the submission is April 20. HT Image

A parent of a student, on condition of anonymity, said: This is unforgivable because my traumatised son was not ready to go to school the next day. Another parents son who faced the punishment said: The children could have been made to write a paragraph from a text book five times instead of this sentence. My son is humiliated. Who will pay for his emotional distress caused by the incident?

If this punitive measure was not harsh enough, when a girl student refused to obey, the teacher sent her to a corner of the classroom and told her to write it while standing, said another parent.

On Tuesday, a parent reported the incident to the management on the schools WhatsApp group, following which the vice principal called and had a word with him. The parent said, This was the first time I entered the school. We have wanted to meet teachers many times in the past but were refused audience. We were not even allowed to enter the school. However, now the vice principal has assured action against the teacher, but it doesnt answer the humiliation our children have faced. The parent added that their group has requested the management in the past not to involve students in the matter of fees.

Despite HTs repeated attempts, Jyoti Nair, regional director and principal, of New Horizon Scholars School refused to comment.
MUMBAI: A special PMLA (Prevention of Money Laundering Act) court in the city on Tuesday granted bail to Subhash Parab, a close aide of fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi, observing that the main beneficiary of the proceeds of crime (Modi) is still beyond the reach of the law enforcement agencies even after five years of registration of the case. PNB scam: PMLA court grants bail to Nirav Modis close aide

As per the record, Parab was not the beneficiary of the proceeds of the crime. The main beneficiary of the proceeds of crime is still beyond the reach of the police, the special court said while granting bail to the 51-year-old.

The court also took into consideration that the trial was not likely to start soon. There is no likelihood that trial in the case would commence soon, the court said, adding, The main accused Nirav Modi has left India and five years have lapsed since the date of registration of the offence.

The court noted that Parab went to the public sector bank and on his instructions the money was transferred to Modis companies located in Hong Kong and in the Gulf. However, the court said he was just an employee at Modis company.

CBI has on January 31, 2018, registered a case against Nirav Modi, his Firestar Group, his brother Nishal and several others, including some PNB officers for allegedly defrauding the public sector bank of crores of rupees.

The investigation by the CBI has revealed that between 2011 and 2017, in all 1,214 Letters of Undertakings (LoUs) totalling 23,780 crore were fraudulently issued by PNB to various overseas banks to finance imports by Modis firms -- Diamonds R US, Stellar Diamonds and Solar Exports. Of the LoUs, 150 -- totalling 6,498.20 crore remained unpaid when the scam came to light in January 2018 and resulted in causing a loss of 6,805.24 crore to PNB.

The probe also revealed that Modis maternal uncle Mehul Choksi had duped PNB to the tune of 7,080 crore, using the same modus operandi -- by fraudulently obtaining LoUs and foreign letters of credit (FLCs) from PNB in favour of his Gitanjali Group firms, when PNB had not sanctioned any credit facility to either of Modis firms or that of Choksi.

Parab was the deputy general manager of M/s Firestar International Pvt Ltd and headed the finance department of the company after Manish Bosamia left the company in 2015. He was deported from Cairo, Egypt in April last year.

The agency claimed that all the documents related to outstanding LOUs had been prepared on his instructions and the decision to utilisation the funds was taken by the 51-year-old deputy general manager as per Modis instructions. The CBI had claimed that Parab was looking after banking-related activities of the three Firestar firms - M/s Diamonds R US, M/s Stellar Diamond and M/s Solar Exports.
MUMBAI: Adding fuel to speculation over senior NCP leader Ajit Pawar wanting to join hands with the ruling BJP in Maharashtra, two MLAs from the Ajit camp came out openly in support of the leader even as party chief Sharad Pawar launched a damage-control exercise. Nationalist Congress Party leaders Ajit Pawar and Sharad Pawar. (Photo by Rahul Raut/HT Photo)

NCP MLAs Anna Bansode and Manikrao Kokate  both considered close to Ajit  said they will remain loyal to him no matter what. Speaking to news channel TV9 Marathi, Bansode said: I had extended full support to Ajit Pawar even in November 2019 when he tried to form a government with the BJP incumbent CM Devendra Fadnavis. I am still loyal to him and will stand by him in whatever decision he may take in the future.

Also Read | The uncle-nephew tussle could be reaching a decisive stage

Bansode said Ajit has called a meeting of MLAs in Mumbai on Tuesday and he is going to attend.

However, Ajit Pawar clarified that he has not called any meeting of MLAs or party office-bearers. He also clarified that he was in Mumbai and did not schedule any programme for Monday. The clarification was in response to rumours that he had again gone incommunicado on Monday.

Meanwhile, close aides of the NCP chief launched a damage-control exercise.

NCP MLA Sunil Bhusara said: All this going on about Ajit Pawar is nothing but rumours. I do not see this happening. He is not going anywhere. All the decisions are being taken by Pawar saheb only. All the MLAs are with the party. faisal malik

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The 13-month-old Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in Manipur is facing internal differences with voices of dissent growing against chief minister N Biren Singh and his style of functioning. Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh. (File Photo)

In the past five days, two BJP MLAS---Thokchom Radheyshyam and Karam Shyamhave resigned from key posts saying that they had not been given any tasks associated with their posts.

Meanwhile, a few BJP MLAs have reached Delhi to meet the partys central leadership. There are reports that they are unhappy with the CM and want either a change of leadership or a major reshuffle in the state Cabinet.

Radheyshyam, a former IPS officer, quit as the advisor to the CM on April 14 while Shyam resigned from the post of chairman of the state tourism corporation on April 17. Both of them were ministers in the previous government led by Singh.

We have no official knowledge of how many MLAs have gone to Delhi or what they are planning to do. Its a fact that 2 MLAs have resigned from their posts and there could be a few others as well who have grievances, said Chidananda Singh, BJP state vice president.

Some news reports say 10-12 BJP MLAs are in Delhi now. But as per our information many of them are at present in Imphal. There could be a few who are in the national capital, but we have no idea what correspondence they are having with the partys central leadership, he added.

In the assembly polls held in March last year, the BJP returned to power by bagging 32 of the total 60 seats. Though there were some initial questions on leadership, Singh got the CMs chair for a second consecutive term.

BJP is a family and like any family there will be grievances. But whatever the issues are, they will be discussed and sorted. Theres no major dissidence against the CM and no threat to his leadership as of now, said Chidananda.

People familiar with the matter said that several BJP legislators and leaders are unhappy with the CMs way of functioning and claimed that most of the powers are centralised and others dont have much say on issues.

Theres a big infighting within the BJP at present and the resignation by two former ministers and sitting MLAs clearly shows that. Leaders from the ruling party themselves are saying that the BJP has betrayed the people of Manipur. This is what we have been maintaining as well, said Manipur Congress president Keisham Meghachandra Singh.

The CM is autocratic and authoritarian and is busy promoting his family and relatives instead of being bothered about the people. On top of that theres large scale corruption and misuse of funds as well. The BJP infighting is not just affecting the ruling party, it has affected government functioning and hurting the entire state, he added.

Observers feel Singh has been unable to find a formula to keep the large number of BJP MLAs happy, which in turn has led to the differences. Legislators who are not given responsibilities are afraid that it might affect their chances of winning the next polls.

The CMs style of functioning is very centralised. There are only 12 Cabinet berths in Manipur while the party has 32 MLAs. Those who have not been made ministers or given charge of some corporations and boards feel left out and get angry, said senior journalist and political columnist Pradip Phanjoubam.

The CM should have found a formula to give responsibilities to most MLAs, but he has been unable to do so. Its a small pie and everyone wants a share. The present issue could turn out to be serious depending on how it grows in coming days and how the BJP leadership acts, he added

.

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A Maoist was killed after a gunfire exchange with security personnel in Chhattisgarhs Bastar district on Tuesday morning, police said. Police said two other Maoists, one of them injured, were also apprehended following the encounter. (Representative file image)

Police said two other Maoists, one of them injured, were also apprehended following the encounter.

Inspector general of police, Bastar range, Sunderaj P said the encounter took place at around 8am near Kachlawari village near Bijapur.

Also Read: Woman Maoist killed in gunfire exchange with security personnel in Bastar: Police

A team of the District Reserve Guard (DRG) was out on a search operation from Reddy Camp acting on the specific input of Maoists presence in the forest of Naimed. When the team reached Kachlawari village, the Maoists opened fire and the encounter started, said the IG.

After the exchange of fire stopped, the body of a male Maoist was found from the spot. Two other Maoists, one of them in an injured condition, were captured by the team, the official said.

The injured Maoist was shifted to a hospital.

We are yet to identify the Maoists and the process of identification is going on, said the IG.
In a broad daylight robbery, unidentified armed men looted 16 lakh cash and gold worth 15 lakh from Chakai branch of the State Bank of India (SBI) in Bihars Jamui district on Tuesday, police said. This is the sixth incident of major cash loot in the state within 45 days. Police said that the armed dacoits entered the branch when bank premises were being cleaned by sweepers. (Representative Image)

Police said that a gang of armed robbers committed the crime after injuring the bank cashier and assaulting the branch manager who resisted their attempt. Police have been unable to trace the whereabouts of the robbers so far and the search is still on.

The incident took place at 9.40am, barely 250 metres from the Chakai police station of the district. Police said that a gang of at least six armed men entered the branch located on the first floor at the busiest Bus stand Road and took everyone including the branch manager and customers hostage at gunpoint.

Police said that the armed dacoits entered the branch when bank premises were being cleaned by sweepers. The branch manager was locked in the bathroom while main gate of the branch was also bolted from the inside.

The mask wearing miscreants arrived at the spot on their vehicles and six of them entered the bank premises in the garb of customers. The robbers started pressuring the cashier for giving keys to open the locked iron vault.

Police said that the robbers barely took 10 to 12 minutes to rob the bank and fled. Before leaving with the cash, the criminals took DVR of CCTVs. Jamui SP Shaurya Suman said a forensic science laboratory (FSL) team reached the spot and inquired the incident. District border was sealed soon after receiving information about the loot. Intensive raids are going on to nab the suspects involved in the incident, he added.

The SP added that the police team are trying to identify the robbers through CCTV footages installed near the branch.

Earlier on April 13, armed robbers killed two home guard jawans and looted 14 lakh from the Sonepur branch of the Punjab National Bank (PNB), barely 200 metres from the local police station area.

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The directorate of enforcement (ED) has summoned Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer and former Ranchi deputy commissioner Chhavi Ranjan for questioning in connection with a money laundering probe linked to a land scam in the Jharkhand capital, people aware of the development said on Monday. IAS officer Chhavi Ranjan. (ANI Photo)

He has been summoned for questioning at the Ranchi zonal office on April 21, an ED official said.

The development comes four days after the federal agency raided 21 locations across three states including the official and private residence of Ranjan and others on April 13.

While Ranjan was questioned for several hours at his residence during the raids, a day later the agency arrested seven persons on charges of money laundering in connection with fraudulent sale of at least two land parcels at premium locations in the state capital.

Those arrested includes two junior government staff working at circle office and land brokers who allegedly are part of a syndicate involved in fraudulent sale of land.

The present ED crack down is related to money laundering probe in connection with the fraudulent sale of around 4.5 acre land, possessed by the Indian Army since independence, besides one acre land in Cheshire Home road in upscale Bariatu area of the state capital, officials said.

Chhavi Ranjan is also under the ED scanner in the case as the 2011 batch IAS officer, currently director in social welfare department, was deputy commissioner of Ranchi when these land deals were allegedly processed, the people said. Ranjan was Ranchi DC from July 15, 2020 to July 11, 2022.

Ranjan is the second IAS officer of the Jharkhand cadre against whom the federal agency has conducted raids in the past one year. Senior IAS officer and the then mines secretary Pooja Singhal was arrested on May 11, 2022 on money laundering charges in connection with the MNREGA scam. Around 20 crore was recovered during the raids at locations related to her chartered accountant Suman Kumar. Both are currently in jail.

Besides action against these two officers, the ED in past one year has also questioned two other IAS officers in connection with different cases.

The agency last month had questioned Rajiv Arun Ekka, principal secretary to chief minister Hemant Soren, after a video of Ekka emerged where he was allegedly singing official files at the private office of a businessman, Vishal Chaudhary, who is also under ED scanner.

The agency in January this year had also questioned Sahebganj deputy commissioner Ramniwas Yadav in connection with illegal mining scam the agency is probing.

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Delhi Education Minister Atishi on Tuesday launched Delhi Arts Curriculum report on the innovative arts curriculum developed for students from underserved communities in Delhi. Delhi Edu Minister launches report on arts curriculum for underserved students

Developed by NalandaWay Foundation, Delhi Arts Curriculum has enabled students aged three to ten to develop specific competencies in five different art forms: visual arts, music, dance, theatre, and media arts, as per a press statement issued by the foundation.

In addition, the curriculum also focuses on the development of social-emotional skills, it said.

Himanshu Gupta, Director Education & Sports, Govt of Delhi, said, "The Delhi Arts Curriculum, developed as a means to include arts in the education of all children in Delhi Government schools, has stemmed from the recommendations put forth in the National Education Policy, 2020. The curriculum was launched as a pilot in selected Sarvodaya schools following training for teachers. I have seen the students engage actively in Nalanda Way art classes, exploring the world of visual art, music, dance, theatre, and media arts, and tapping into the artist within..."

"The report titled "Delhi Arts Curriculum: Findings from the Pilot Study", addresses the need for children to engage in joyful and artistic experiences as a part of mainstream education. Coming at a time when learning loss is a pertinent challenge, the report provides important findings and recommendations to integrate art into the learning and development of every child. We are now working towards exploring the next steps of intervention to ensure the inclusion of arts education in all Delhi Government schools," he added.

Sriram V, Founder & CEO, NalandaWay Foundation said, "For us, arts have been a key driver for social change. Three years ago, when we signed the MoU with the Delhi government to introduce an arts curriculum in government schools, we used the opportunity to introduce visual arts, music, theatre, dance, and media arts every day for all ages from all ages 3 to 13 years. At the end of the artful academic year, we were thrilled by the outcomes for children as well as teachers. The arts curriculum led children to appreciate art, learn art skills and improve socioemotional skills- an increase in student attendance, participation, confidence, and social skills was observed; while for the teachers, it led to improved creative confidence in teaching arts."
Veteran Bollywood actors Asha Parekh and Tanuja opened up about the issues of pay disparity and the lack of proper hygienic conditions on sets in Bollywood. In a new interview, the acclaimed actors opened up about the issues that have more or less remained the same in Bollywood, even after so many decades. (Also read: Hema Malini says roles are 'written specially' for male actors, not for actresses: Amitabh Bachchan gets great roles...) Asha Parekh and Tanuja talked about ageism and pay disparity in Bollywood.

Asha Parekh started her career as a child artiste under the screen name Baby Asha Parekh. Director Bimal Roy spotted her dance at a stage function and cast her at the age of ten in Maa (1952). Some of her most notable films include Dil Deke Dekho (1959), Jab Pyar Kisi Se Hota Hai (1961), Phir Wohi Dil Laya Hoon (1963), Teesri Manzil (1966), and Kati Patang (1970) to name a few. Meanwhile, Tanuja debuted in the film Chhabili (1960), and then went on to star in films like Deya Neya (1963), Chand Aur Suraj (1965), Baharen Phir Bhi Aayengi (1966), Jewel Thief (1967) among others.

Now, in a recent conversation on Maitri: Female First Collective on YouTube, both Asha and Tanuja talked about a number of issues that are still prevailing in Bollywood like pay disparity and ageism, and said, Payment was always a problem  previously and even now. Men always had a higher standing. Even Hollywood has not been able to do it We cant blame the guys. We gave them the power to rule.

Talking about ageism in the film industry, Asha Parekh said, Today, Mr Amitabh Bachchan, at this age also, people are writing roles for him. Why arent people writing roles for us? We also should be getting some roles which are important to the film. Thats not there. Either we are playing mother or sister Whos interested? Adding to this topic, Tanuja said, Or now were given grandmother roles.

Highlighting the lack of proper bathrooms in the film sets, Asha Parekh also said how they were told to remain silent about the fact that there are no bathrooms. The actor recalled how studios just had one bathroom for everybody and they were in horrible condition most of the time.

Recently, actor-politician Hema Malini had also highlighted the ageism in the film industry and said that there are no author-backed roles that are written for women of her age, even though OTT has seen such a boom in recent times.

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In the past few months, actor Parineeti Chopra's personal life has grabbed attention. She is reportedly dating Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Raghav Chadha. There were also rumours about the two planning to tie the knot after they were spotted together at Delhi and Mumbai airports in recent weeks. Now, Parineeti has opened up about media speculation over her personal life. Also read: Parineeti Chopra blushes as paparazzi tease her amid Raghav Chadha engagement rumours Parineeti Chopra was spotted with Raghav Chadha in Mumbai recently

In a new interview, Parineeti said that there is a thin line between the media discussing her life and 'crossing the line by being too personal or disrespectful'. The actor said she would clarify only if this leads to misconception, adding if 'not necessary', she would avoid issuing any clarification about her life.

When asked how does the actor fulfill her duty as a public figure, while also ensuring her personal life remains stable, Parineeti told Lifestyle Asia India, "There is a thin line between the media discussing my life and sometimes crossing the line by being too personal or disrespectful. If that happens, I will clarify if there are any misconceptions. If it is not necessary to clarify, I won't."

Recently, a lot has been said in media reports and on social media about Parineeti's frequent travels. The actor is often spotted at Mumbai airport in paparazzi videos. She also spoke about travelling frequently in the same interview. Parineeti said, I would never sacrifice my life for work or work for my life. I always strive to maintain a balance between the two. I remember when I used to travel frequently and spend a lot of time at the airport, people would ask me where I was going and what I was doing, but they would never understand the fact that I was able to balance my life effectively. I think post Covid-19, a lot of people finally understood that.

Recently rumours of Parineeti and Raghav's engagement have been doing the rounds. Last month, AAP leader Sanjeev Arora had shared a congratulatory tweet for Raghav and Parineeti, sparking rumours about their engagement. Amid wedding rumours, and some reports also claiming that their roka ceremony will take place soon, Parineeti was spotted in Mumbai on Monday. She was seen flaunting a silver band on her ring finger, and smiling as she posed for paparazzi.

Parineeti Chopra was last seen in the Amitabh Bachchan-starrer Uunchai. Next, she will be seen in Chamkila and Capsule Gill.

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Apple CEO Tim Cook is in India to inaugurate the first ever Apple retail store in the country. On Monday, many celebs met him at an event in Mumbai, one of them was actor Sonam Kapoor. She was joined by husband Anand Ahuja. On Tuesday, Sonam took to Instagram to share a series of photos of herself and Anand's look from the event. She wore a grey formal outfit, while Anand was in a blue and grey look. Also read: Sonam Kapoor gives tour of grand NMACC museum, says she hasn't seen something like this. Watch Sonam Kapoor poses with husband Anand Ahuja.

Sharing photos with Anand Ahuja, Sonam wrote in her caption, "My handsome date who is one of the biggest supporters of creative talent and innovation. He feels they always go hand and hand. It requires wonderful imagination to create anything new in the arts, engineering or science. We all are creators." A comment on the post read, "God bless you both." Actor Bhumi Pednekar dropped heart and fire emojis in the comments section of Sonam's post.

Sonam also shared some solo photos on Instagram and wrote in her caption, Such a stunning @apple store launched in Bombay (Mumbai). But was most impressed with the members that are a part of the Apple leadership and the team that theyve built. Kudos to the company.

Sonam Kapoor tied the knot with businessman Anand Ahuja in 2018. They welcomed their baby boy Vayu last year in August. In an interview with The Indian Express in January this year, Sonam had spoken about her maternity break. She had said, "I think it was the best decision as I got to take some time off..."

After her long break, Sonam is making her film comeback with Shome Makhijas Blind. This will be her first film since she gave birth to son Vayu last year. The first look from the film was shared by the director recently. The film features Sonam in the lead role. Actors Purab Kohli, Vinay Pathak and Lillete Dubey feature in supporting roles. Blind is a remake of the 2011 Korean film of the same name and centres around a blind police officer in search of a serial killer.

Sonam was last seen in the 2019 film The Zoya Factor alongside Dulquer Salmaan and Angad Bedi. Before that Sonam had starred in Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga, which was released in the same year. She also had a cameo appearance in Netflix's AK vs AK (2020).

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Sushmita Sen has shared pictures of her father being felicitated for his past achievements by Kolkata District Swimming Association. One of the pictures she shared is a close-up of the award presented to Sushmita's father while another one shows him accepting the award. (Also read: Sushmita Sen goes shopping with ex Rohman Shawl, daughter Alisah) Sushmita Sen is proud of her father Subir Sen's achievements.

She wrote, "An honour long overdue!! Soooooooo proud of you daddy @sensubir #sharing This richly deserved felicitation..My Father being Honoured by the Kolkata District Swimming association for his past achievements in swimming, waterpolo & diving. #prouddaughter. I love you guys!! #duggadugga."

Her Aarya co-star Vikramjeet Pradhan was among the first ones to comment. He wrote, " After RRR ..now SSS..Sir Subir Sen !! Respect." Sushmita replied to Vikramjeet and wrote, " @vishwajeetpradhan youre the best!!! Thank you Sir ji." Many fans also congratulated them. One of them wrote, "Wow! Subir what an honor! Congratulations! You made the Club proud and yes the Nation too with your Service! Kudos!! Sushmita you have every right to be proud! #duggadugga #duggadugga."

Last week, Sushmita Sen returned to the sets of her popular web series Aarya to shoot for the third season. She landed in Jaipur on Saturday and shared the update with her fans via an Instagram live chat session. The shoot was halted earlier this year when Sushmita had a cardiac arrest in February.

In her Instagram video, Sushmita told fans that she was seated next to Pankaj Udhas in her flight to Jaipur and added that she was "shameless to ask him, 'sir do line gaa dijiye (Sir, please sing a couple of lines)'. Sharing the video, Sushmita captioned it, "Shubho Noboborsho!!! here's to new beginnings with endless possibilities!!!I love you guys!!! #duggadugga #yourstruly."

After she suffered a cardiac arrest in February, Sushmita underwent angioplasty and later informed fans on social media that she was diagnosed with a 95% blockage in the main artery. Since then, the actor has been sharing her health details on Instagram.

Apart from Aarya 3, Sushmita has a few other interesting projects. These include Taali. She has completed the dubbing for the web series that is based on the life of transgender Shreegauri Sawant - one of the petitioners in the 2013 National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) case in connection with which the Supreme Court recognised a transgender person as the third gender.

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Vivek Agnihotri said same sex marriage is not an urban elitist concept. Reacting to a case in the Supreme Court, the filmmaker tweeted on Tuesday that people, who question same sex marriages, 'have never travelled in small towns and villages' of India. Vivek added that in a 'progressive, liberal and inclusive civilisation' like India same sex marriage 'should be normal, not a crime'. Also read: Vivek Agnihotri discharged in a contempt case after unconditional apology, told to be careful in future Vivek Agnihotri is the director of The Kashmir Files.

He was reacting to a tweet that read, "Centre tells Supreme Court that same sex marriage is an urban elitist concept, which is far removed from social ethos of country. Extending same sex marriage beyond heterosexual unions will create a new institution, centre says." In response, Vivek tweeted, NO. Same sex marriage is not an urban elitist concept. Its a human need. Maybe some sarkari (government) elites drafted it, who have never travelled in small towns and villages. Or Mumbai locals. First, same sex marriage is not a concept. Its a need. Its a right. And in a progressive, liberal and inclusive civilisation like Bharat, same sex marriage should be normal, not a crime.

Vivek Agnihotri supports same sex marriage in a tweet.

Filmmaker Hansal Mehta, too, echoed similar thoughts, as he shared a still from Modern Love: Mumbai. He tweeted, "Come on Supreme Court! Pave the path. Legalise same sex marriages." Hansal had directed an episode from the 2022 anthology series, which focused on a love story between a gay couple.

Last year, Hansal Mehta had spoken about not casting a gay actor in his episode, which featured Pratik Gandhi and Ranveer Brar as a couple. In a conversation with Mashable India, Hansal had said, I understand what they (the queer community) are saying and I believe that representation should come from the stories. If somebody is right for the cast, whether queer or straight, they should be cast correctly.

Meanwhile, a five-judge Supreme Court constitution bench  comprising of Chief Justice DY Chandrachud and justices SK Kaul, S Ravindra Bhat, PS Narasimha, and Hima Kohli  is set to hear a batch of petitions seeking legal validation of same sex marriages in the country on Tuesday. However, the Centre has been opposing the idea.

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Ali Wong and Bill Hader are dating again. Earlier, the couple had dated for a brief while last year. Ali Wong and Bill Hader(Twitter)

As per a report by Page Six, The Barry star Hader is romancing Wong. And in a recent inteview with Collider, Hader had talked about Wong without naming her.

ALSO READ| Vanessa continued to: Love Is Blind star Paul Peden's barb on reunion co-host

My girlfriend and I were just figuring out that I havent had a vacation in 10 years. I went with her to San Francisco, but that doesnt really count. So, Im going to have a vacation, said Bill Hader talking about Wong as quoted by Page Six.

"I need to go into sponge mode, where I'm watching stuff and reading. Even during the pandemic, I was so stressed out and paranoid that I couldn't really focus on anything. So, it's more about trying to get into a better [headspace]. I meditate, but every time I sit down to meditate, I end up passing out and falling asleep. I think I just need a break," he had added in the interview with Collider.

Before the two started dating, 'Beef' star Wong divorced Justin Hakuta while Hader severed marital ties with Anna Kendrick.

After dating for two months last year, the couple had split due to their busy schedules.

Theyre just super busy with things, but [the split] was certainly amicable. Theyre certainly friends, Page Six had reported.

About their previous romance, Page Six reported that only a handful friends were aware of their affair.

Only a small circle of A-list comedians know and everyone was thrilled about it. [Their friends] helped them protect the relationship in light of Alis divorce, as quoted by the website.
Last week, it was announced that Prince Harry would be attending the coronation of his father King Charles III without his wife Meghan Markle. Now, a royal expert has reacted to the news as well as the media speculation whether this might resolve matters between Harry and the royal family after the allegations made in his memoir Spare. (Also read: Prince Harry had peace talks with King Charles before accepting coronation invite: Report) Prince Harry will soon be seen at his father King Charles III's coronation in the UK.

There was anticipation surrounding the news of Prince Harry and Meghan's attendance at the coronation, which made headlines weeks before the official statement from their spokesperson was released. It was then revealed that since the date of the coronation coincided with their son Archies fourth birthday, Meghan had decided that she didn't want to spend the day away from him.

Now, Christopher Andersen, author of The King, has told Fox News Digital that he doesn't think the coronation would mark a reconciliation of sorts between Prince Harry and King Charles III. He said, "My guess is that Harry will be treated like something of a pariah and that he is well aware of that. So, you have to give him credit for being willing to show up anyway. There is a humiliation factor here. Watching the other royals share center stage with the king and queen, while he is probably going to be shunted aside  this will likely be painful and incredibly frustrating for Harry. I have a feeling that even Prince Andrew will be afforded better treatment and shown more respect by the crown  thats how deep the animosity toward the Sussexes runs in royal circles these days."

The royal expert further said, "Harry knows that he's just going to have to follow his grandmothers keep calm and carry on motto. He'll have to just grit his teeth and get through it. I fully expect Harry to be sidelined and snubbed. We can look forward to lots of photographs of Harry standing alone, looking downcast and grim, even visibly seething. There will almost certainly be boos from the crowd, but let's not forget that there is still some lingering affection among the people for Diana's younger son. And I expect there will be some catcalls aimed in the direction of Andrew, Camilla, and even Charles as well. Like it or not, there is a growing anti-monarchist movement in Great Britain and they are becoming increasingly vocal."

Prince Harry and wife Meghan Markle decided to step back as senior royals in 2020. Since then, they have been open about their life in the royal family, and moved to the US, where they now live with their two children. Harry and Meghan were last spotted with the rest of the members of the royal family during the funeral of Queen Elizabeth in September 2022.

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Tolentino seeks creation of Special Prosecution Task Force for Negros Oriental

MANILA - Senator Francis 'TOL' N. Tolentino is seeking for the creation of a Special Prosecution Task Force Negros Oriental, amidst the current state of the peace and order in the said province.

Tolentino made the remarks during the continuation of the Senate's Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs inquiry in connection with the assassination of former Governor Roel Degamo as well as other unresolved crimes within Negros Oriental.

"I move that a Special Task Force Negros Oriental Prosecution Team be created upon the request of this committee, specifically to handle all cases brought before this committee... specifically all cases prior to the assassination of Governor Degamo, including the case of Governor Degamo, Mr. Chairman. I so move, Mr. Chairman," said Tolentino during the continuation of the Senate investigation on Tuesday.

Tolentino, chairman of the Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights suggested that a task force, consisting of three special prosecutors, should be appointed to hasten the progress of violence-related cases pending before various trial courts in the said province.

"Mag create kayo ng Special Prosecution Task Force Negros Oriental para yung tatlong tao na iyon lang yung mag handle nung 20 folders na sinasabi natin kanina para mapadali hindi na sila papunta punta pa sa iba, maguguluhan, and then that special task force will just update this committee on the ongoing developments. Puwede ho kaya iyon?" Tolentino asked Justice Undersecretary Jesse Hermogenes Andres.

Andres heeded to Tolentino's suggestion, as the Department of Justice in the past "have done that in several instances, to avoid miscarriage of justice and where there is some tension or pressure in the area where the preliminary investigation is being conducted."
The fourth season of The Kapil Sharma Show is reportedly going to go on hiatus after June. Kapil Sharma revealed that it could be a possibility as the cast and crew were preparing to go for a live tour in the US in July. However, the host did not commit to the show fully going on hiatus either. Kapil said that it was too far ahead to decide. (Also read: Kapil Sharma trolls Suresh Raina for doing household chores: Mujhe maaf kardo Maharaj!) The current season of The Kapil Sharma Show premiered in September 2022. (PTI Photo)(PTI)

The television show had gone on hiatus in 2021 and 2022 for around three months as the team went on an international tour in the US and Canada. It remained temporarily off air during that time and the show came back after six months with a few new cast members. This current season was launched in September 2022. Last year, Krushna Abhishek had exited the show because of monetary differences.

Kapil Sharma told ETimes about the show's future plans and the impending break. He said, "It is not finalised yet. We have to go to the USA for our live tour in July and we will see what to do around that time. Having said that, even thats too far."

Premiered in April 2016, the comedy sketch and talk show also stars Kiku Sharda, Sumona Chakravarti, Srishti Rode, Gaurav Dubey, Ishtiyak Khan, Sidharth Sagar, and Srikant G Maski. Archana Puran Singh is also part of the series as the guest judge. Many film and television stars stop by the popular show to promote their work. Recently, Salman Khan, Pooja Hegde, Shehnaaz Gill and rest of the cast of the upcoming film Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan were present to promote their Eid release.

Kapil's most recent film, Zwigato co-starring Shahana Goswami, premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival last year. Directed by Nandita Das, it featured the actor as food delivery executive in Odisha. The comedian has also acted in the films Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon (2015) and Firangi (2017). In 2022, he also premiered his Netflix stand-up special titled Kapil Sharma: I'm Not Done Yet.

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Priyanka Chopra is making her web series debut alongside Richard Madden in Prime Video's Citadel. The spy thriller created by David Weil features Priyanka and Richard as former agents who have their memories erased by a shady agency named Citadel and are later asked to help bring it down. While promoting the series, the actor was asked about her one-year-old daughter Malti Marie Jonas' first trip to India. Along with her husband Nick Jonas, she and Malti had arrived in India for the launch of the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre and also began the global media tour in Mumbai. (Also read: Priyanka Chopra says she did almost 80% of the stunts in Citadel: I have done action films in Bollywood) Priyanka Chopra with her husband Nick Jonas and daughter Malti Marie at Mumbai Airport in March. (ANI Photo)(ANI)

The actor plays Nadia Sinh in the action thriller; Stanley Tucci and Lesley Manville are also part of the cast. The series is set to have its London premiere on Tuesday. The first two episodes of the six-part series will premiere on April 28.

In an interview with Extra TV, Priyanka spoke about kicking off the Citadel global tour in India. She said, It was so sweet. It was very emotional for me that we kicked off this whole global tour in Mumbai. I was sitting right next to Richard and my mom and we're surrounded by friends and family and industry folk that have seen me since I was 18 years old. It was poignant and really emotional for me. Citadel is the sum of my 22 years in the business. It's everything that I have learnt and everything that I know. It's something I'm very proud of and hopefully people will enjoy the show as much as we enjoy it.

Opening up about her daughter's first visit to Mumbai, she added, "It was Malti's first time in India. It was Malti's first time in Mumbai. She loves it. She loved everything about it, from the sights to the sounds, to the food... from going to her nani's house, which is my mom's house. She loved everything about it."

The actor will be filming a feature in the UK called Heads of State with Idris Elba and John Cena in some time. It coincides with husband Nick also going on tour with the Jonas Brothers in the UK as well. Priyanka's next film, Love Again, premieres in May. Sam Heughan, Celine Dion and Russell Tovey are part of the cast, with Nick making a cameo too.

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UPDATE | 'No truth': Ajit Pawar dismisses talk of BJP and '40 MLAs' report NCP chief Sharad Pawar and his nephew Ajit Pawar. (ANI file)

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar on Tuesday dismissed speculation about his nephew and former Maharashtra deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar's next political move and said no meeting of NCP MLAs has been called by anyone.

Sharad Pawar's comments come a day after Ajit Pawar also dismissed as false the reports that he has called a meeting of MLAs on Tuesday, amid intense speculation in Maharashtra's political circles about his growing proximity with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Speaking to the reporters in Purandar area of Maharashtra's Pune district, Sharad Pawar said whatever discussions are going on in the minds of the media are not there in "our minds". "...There is no importance of all these discussions. The reports have no meaning. I can say about the NCP that all our colleagues are of one thinking of how to make the party stronger, and there is no other thought in anybody's mind," the party chief said.

Earlier, The New Indian Express reported that Ajit Pawars efforts to become Eknath Shindes successor as Maharashtra chief minister in alliance with the BJP was gaining momentum with the former collecting consent signatures from his lawmakers within his party.

About 40 of the 53 NCP MLAs have given their consent signatures so far. The list would be presented to the governor when the time arrives, said the newspaper quotes a well placed source in the party as saying.

The newspaper added that while Ajit Pawar was calling up NCP MLAs personally to seek their signatures, Sharad Pawar didn't make any counter move yet. In 2019, after Ajit bolted, Sharad Pawar had called up all NCP lawmakers to keep his party intact.

Meanwhile, two MLAs from the Ajit Pawar camp had come out openly in support of the leader even as Sharad Pawar launched a damage-control exercise.

NCP MLAs Anna Bansode and Manikrao Kokate  both considered close to Ajit  said they will remain loyal to him no matter what. Speaking to news channel TV9 Marathi, Bansode said: I had extended full support to Ajit Pawar even in November 2019 when he tried to form a government with the BJP incumbent CM Devendra Fadnavis. I am still loyal to him and will stand by him in whatever decision he may take in the future.

Sharad Pawar, whose party is a constituent of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) which also comprises the Shiv Sena (UBT) and Congress, dismissed reports of a meeting of NCP MLAs being called in Mumbai and said no one has called such a meeting. "The party's state president (Jayant Patil) is busy with a local election in his region, and another party leader Ajit Pawar is also busy with the work of the party and providing guidance to everyone," he said.

Meanwhile, Shiv Sena (Uddhav Bal Thackeray) leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut said, "These are baseless rumours. I spoke with him (Ajit Pawar) and other (NCP) leaders this morning."

"If those spreading such canards think that they can weaken the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) by resorting to such ploys, then they are mistaken," the Shiva Sena (UBT) MP added.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Air India on Monday announced new salary structure for pilots and cabin crew, increasing the remuneration for several categories of staff, officials said. The airline also announced two additional levels or designations in the pilot category. (Air India | Twitter)

The announcement by the airline, which its new owner Tata Group has said is undergoing a transformation plan, is likely to affect at least 2,700 pilots across Air India, Air Asia India and Air India Express brands, and 5,600 Air India cabin crew.

In line with our vision Vihaan.AI to become a world-class airline, Air India recognises the contribution and commitment of its employees. We are pleased to announce a revision in the compensation of flying staff with effect from 1st April 2023. We have re-designed the compensation of flying staff to make our compensation structure simplified, market-competitive and productivity-oriented, said the airline in an announcement over email to staff, which was sent shortly after an online townhall meeting.

Also Read: Airport sees 14% more flights this summer than in 2022

Changes in per hour flying rates and a minimum guarantee of flying allowance for 40 hours, up from 20 hours are few of the key upgrades.

However, some senior permanent officials felt the benefits may not reach them in the revised structure.

An airline pilot, who asked not to be named, said, This raise in pay is only for junior pilots who work at a very poor scale, while adding that senior-most pilots are unlikely to benefit from it.

A second pilot said the minimum guaranteed flying allowance was below industry standard. Industry standards dictate that a pilot should be paid for the month translating to approximately 70 hours. A 40-hour commitment is highly unfair to the pilot, an airline commander told HT, asking not to be named.

The airline also announced two additional levels or designations in the pilot category: junior first officer at entry level, and senior commanders.

Pilots-in-command with four or more years of command experience on company aircraft are being promoted to senior commanders as executive pilots of the management cadre, the company said.

As far as the salary revision is concerned, for senior captains its a 10-20% cut while junior commanders could get a 5-10% hike.

The company decided to extend contracts for those pilots on fixed term contracts (FTC) till up to the age of 58 years and announced that annual increments will be held as per industry expert assessment from the next financial year.

Additional compensation for pilots undergoing training for command-upgrade and conversion training will also be rolled out, the airline said.

Similar changes were announced for the cabin crew too.

The cabin crew organisation structure for both permanent and FTC cabin crew has been redesignated into four segments -- Trainee Cabin Crew, Cabin Crew, Cabin Senior and Cabin Executive.

In these too, some remuneration structures were tweaked upwards, but a few staff told HT that they were unsatisfied with allowances for permanent senior and permanent executives, who will not see any change in their pay.

The basic / DA / HRA were sacrosanct for Air India crew (and other employees) as PF/leave encashment, gratuity and home loans are based on that. Our basic and DA has not been revised since the Dharmadhikari report, a cabin crew said, asking not to be named, referring to a report on pay revisions released in 2013.

Airline officials said new recruits were the major beneficiaries.

The charts for hourly flying are highly lopsided. Many seniors will consider VRS (voluntary retirement) and there may be an exodus of middle-level crew. Either way, morale will hit rock bottom, the official added, asking not to be named.

People in the airline also pointed out that the management has reduced overtime allowance.

At a time when both pilots and cabin crew are forced to work overtime due to various reasons, the management has reduced the allowance, further demotivating them, a second airline official said, asking not to be named.

An Air India spokesperson did not respond to requests for a comment on the staffs criticisms on the new pay structures.

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Nationalist Congress Party leader Ajit Pawar insisted Tuesday there is 'no truth' to rumours he is about to join the Bharatiya Janata Party and declared dramatically he would continue working for the NCP for as long as he lived. NCP leader and former Maharashtra deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar. (HT)

"I am with NCP not going anywhere nobody (has) taken signatures of any MLAs. These are baseless speculations," the ex-deputy chief minister of Maharashtra said. "I have not taken signatures of MLAs. Rumours must stop."

The declaration comes amid persistent talk that Ajit Pawar and a group of loyal MLAs might quit the NCP and join the BJP, which is allied with chief minister Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena faction and is in power in the western state.

"We are all with NCP. I will work for NCP till I live," he told reporters.

The younger Pawar - his uncle is NCP supremo Sharad Pawar - also criticised the media and said its reports had led to confusion in the party's ranks.

There had been talk Ajit Pawar had signatures from 40 of the NCP's 53 MLAs who were ready to join him in switching allegiance to the ruling BJP.

The NCP is allied with what is now ex-chief minister Uddhav Thackeray's Sena faction and the Congress, and ruled Maharashtra as the Maha Vikas Aghadi till the BJP-backed rebellion last year led by Sena faction leader Eknath Shinde.

"I want to tell them (NCP workers)  'don't worry, NCP was formed under leadership of Sharad Pawar, and there have been times when we have been in power or in opposition'," Ajit Pawar said today as the rumours spread.

Pawar's firm denial came hours after uncle and NCP boss Sharad Pawar dismissed similar talk and said no meeting of the party's MLAs had been called.

Sharad Pawar - a veteran credited with engineering the alliance between the then-united Sena, the Congress and his party - also criticised the media.

"... there is no importance of all these discussions. The reports have no meaning our colleagues are (united in working) to make the party stronger."

"There is no other thought in anybody's mind."

READ | 40 MLAs back Ajit Pawar for NCP-BJP alliance? Sharad Pawar responds

On Monday Ajit Pawar had dismissed as false media reports stating he had called a meeting of NCP lawmakers; a report by The New Indian Express, which Hindustan Times could not independently verify, said the nephew had gathered the support of 40 MLAs and was ready to join hands with the BJP.

The report also claimed Sharad Pawar had made no effort to counter this, leading to talk he might, in fact, be on-board with the Cong-to-BJP jump.

READ | Sharad Pawar in damage control amid buzz over nephew Ajit's move

Back in 2019 Ajit Pawar did walk out on his uncle and the MVA to join with the BJP and form - for less than three days - the Maharashtra government; he was made deputy chief minister then too. That rebellion was short-lived as several NCP lawmakers whose support he claimed - and whose support the BJP needed to make their majority bid stick - re-affirmed their loyalty to Sharad Pawar.

Meanwhile, from the Sena camp, Sanjay Raut, who is Uddhav Thackeray's close aide, also backed Ajit Pawar. "These are baseless rumours. I spoke with him and other (NCP) leaders this morning if those spreading such canards think they can weaken the MVA they are mistaken," he declared.

With input from agencies

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A letter by Atiq Ahmad - the gangster-politician shot dead in the custody of Uttar Pradesh Police - is on its way to Chief Justice DY Chandrachud and UP chief minister Yogi Adityanath, his lawyer said Tuesday morning. "That letter in a sealed envelope is neither with me nor sent by me. It is kept somewhere else and being sent by some other person," Vijay Mishra, the lawyer, said. Police personnel escort gangster-politician Atiq Ahmed to a 'routine' medical check-up in Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh on Thursday. (File photo)

"I don't know the contents of the letter. Atiq Ahmad had said that if there were any mishap, or if he was murdered, the letter in the sealed envelope should be sent to the Chief Justice of India and Uttar Pradesh chief minister," he added.

News of the dispatch of Atiq Ahmad's letter comes a day after Mishra told news agency ANI the gangster-politician's brother Ashraf - shot and killed in the same incident - told him it contains the name of a senior police official who boasted the brothers 'will be taken out of jail and eliminated'.

READ | 'If I'm murdered a sealed envelope...': What Atiq Ahmad's brother said

"While being taken from Prayagraj to Bareilly a senior police official told him (Ashraf) he survived this time but would be taken out of jail within 15 days and eliminated I asked Ashraf about the police official. He didn't disclose his name as he felt I (Mishra) would be in trouble," the lawyer said.

READ | '2 hafte baad': Ashraf shot dead days after he predicted his death

Mishra told ANI Ashraf had told him a 'sealed envelope' would be delivered to the chief justices of the Supreme Court and the Allahabad High Court.

A copy will also be sent to the chief minister of UP, he said.

Atiq Ahmad and his brother Ashraf were murdered on live TV Saturday while being taken for a 'routine medical check-up' past 10 pm.

READ | Atiq Ahmad shot nine times; brother Ashraf five times, once in face

They were shot by three men who posed as journalists and fired multiple times - two of three weapons used were reportedly imported from Turkey.

All this took place in the middle of a large number of on-duty police personnel. The shooters then made no attempt to flee and were detained immediately.

They have since been transferred to a different jail on 'administrative' grounds.

The UP government - which has been severely criticised over the incident - has set up a three-member judicial committee to investigate Atiq Ahmad's murder, which will be also investigated by the equally fiercely criticised state police.

The reports are due within two months.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court agreed to hear a plea for an independent inquiry into 183 'encounters' that have taken place in Uttar Pradesh over the past six years, including that of Atiq Ahmad and his son Asad, who was gunned down by UP Police's Special Task Force last week in a 'special operation' near Jhansi.

Atiq and Asad are among the accused in the murder of Umesh Pal in February. Pal was a witness to the murder of a Bahujan Samaj Party leader in 2005.

With input from agencies

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BJP sarkarakke dhikkara (down with the BJP government)...Tanda bachao, BJP hatao (Save the village, remove the BJP. BY Vijayendra had stated that he had already toured the constituency and reached out to every village and every booth. (ANI)

These were the comments that greeted Shikaripur Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate and son of former Karnataka chief minister BS Yediyurappa, BY Vijayendra, as he entered Taralaghatta Tanda for campaigning on Sunday.

The Banjara community that accounts for a significant proportion of the population of the village was clearly not in a welcoming mood. They continued to shout and Vijayendra, 50, was forced to leave.

In the nearby village of Hosadoddanakoppa, the story was the same. The women of the hamlet stood guard as BJP leaders arrived to seek votes. A man, who was working in a field close by, rushed to inform the rest of the villagers about his arrival. Even before the men could arrive from the fields, Vijayendra and his entourage left without stepping out of their vehicles.

The growing disgruntlement in the Banjara community against the new internal reservation announced within the overall reservation for Scheduled Castes is palpable in Shikaripur. Residents of several tandas (Banjara villages) have called for a boycott of all political parties, but especially the ruling BJP. We feel cheated, and our community will continue to boycott them till the government withdraws the Sadashiva Commission report, villagers say.

On the threshold of assembly polls in the state, the Basavaraj Bommai-led BJP government tweaked the reservation quota for people from the scheduled castes, scheduled tribes and other backward classes, a move aimed at accommodating long-standing demands for more reservation from various communities so as to maximise the electoral returns.

Last year, the state government under Bommai approved the increase in the reservation in educational institutions and government jobs for the scheduled castes to 17% from 15%, a change that has been challenged before the high court.

Then, on March 24, the state said it would fix internal quotas within the 17% earmarked for scheduled castes -- 6% has been awarded to the SC Left group, 5.5 % to the SC Right category, while Touchable communities got 4.5% and the other SC communities got the remaining 1%. SC Left, SC Right and Touchable are categories defined by the state.

It is said that during Adi Karnataka in 17th century, those who used to work in farms now constitute Dalit Left and those, who were administrators, are now Dalit right. All 101 caste groups, who were considered original inhabitants of Karnataka and had faced oppression from invaders, were given SC reservation after Independence. Touchable community are the ones who were allowed to work in homes of upper castes such as LIngayats and Vokkaligas. Dalits constitute 20% of the states population.

The Banjara community, which falls under the touchable group, are in arms, as they believe that their reservation has been reduced from an open 15% earlier to 4.5%.

On March 27, agitating members of the Banjara community pelted stones at Yediyurappas house at Shikaripur in Shivamogga district . They also protested in other parts of the state.

Yediyurappa has represented Shikaripura seven times in assembly since 1983. He announced his retirement from electoral politics on July 2022, and successfully lobbied and got the seat for his son Vijayendra. BJP leaders have sought to discredit the agitation and claimed the Congress is behind it. Yediyurappa has also attempted to assuage community leaders, but in vain.

Banjaras in Shikaripur

The Banjaras, also knows as Lambanis, are a semi-nomadic community, predominantly found in Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh , and in some parts of northern India. In multi-ethnic villages, they tend to live in small isolated hamlets .

Historically, Banjaras were known to be nomadic people who moved from one region to another in search of good pasture land for their cattle. With time and relatively better educational and job opportunities, they have stopped doing so, but mainly work as daily wagers.

According to the 2011 census, there are about 3,300 Banjara villages in Karnataka, with a total population of 1.2 million. They are mostly concentrated in Kalaburagi, Vijayapura, Koppal, Raichur, Chitradurga, Haveri, Davanagere, Shivamoga, Chikkamagaluru, Tumakuru, and Chikkaballapura districts.

 As per the community estimate, there would around 2.5 million people from the community in the state, Savitha Shivakumar Naik, former director of Karnataka Thanda Development Corporation Ltd, said.

Karnataka Thanda Development Corporation was established in 2009, when Yediyurappa was the chief minister, for the welfare of the community. This helped them progress in all spheres of life, and provided them with roads, schools, anganwadis, etc, Naik said, outlining the work done by the corporation.

T Ramanaik, a lawyer and a BJP worker, said Yediyurappa saw the communitys struggle of collecting commodities from forest and gave them land. As a result, they have progressed economically and in terms of education as well, he claimed.

The state government also assured them that the reservation would not be removed. But some miscreants protested and issue become political, he added.

However, Manju, a member of the Banjara community from Taralaghatta Tanda said: We know that they will not remove us from the SC list. We fear that our children will get lesser reservation benefit because of the Sadashiva Commission report...All the information is available online. No one is being mislead. We are educated and capable understanding things.

Internal reservation is the main issue, Manju pointed out. The earlier 15% for SCs was like an open field. For example, in a race, anyone who runs the fastest comes first. Now, with 4.5%, they have limited our quota, he explained.

Another issue is, this is unscientific. The 17%, which they have announced, has not been given a nod yet. It has only been send to the Centre. According to the Sadashiva Commission, its 3% for us. So, were confused whether well get 3% or 4.5%. Thats why our community feels injustice has been done. We will boycott the BJP in the upcoming elections, he said.

The Justice Sadashiva Committee report, submitted on 2012 (seven years after it was constituted), when reservation for scheduled castes was 15%, recommended a 3% reservation for the Touchable Groups category. The BJP was in power in the state in 2012.

Political fallout

In Shikaripur, of the total 1.9 lakh voters, at least 35,000 are Banjaras. The constituency has about 46,000 Lingayat voters, 33,000 people from other Scheduled Castes, 20,000 tribal voters, 26,000 Mulsims, 14,500 Kurubas and about 6,000 Idigas, according to local party leaders. Yediyuruppa needed votes of other communities to win and the Banjaras always supported him , said Ramanaik.

Manju agreed that Yediyurappa has done a lot for the community. But the internal reservation (change) has taken away the trust we had on him, he said.

Another member of the community, who did not identify himself was quick to add, that the community is not against Yediyurappa or his son but is opposing the BJP. If it wasnt for the internal reservation issue, whatever love and respect people have for Yediyurappa, they would shower double the amount on Vijayendra. They have the support of other communities but not ours in the upcoming elections.

Shikaripur Congress leader Raghavendra Naik said, The BJP has backstabbed our community. When Yediyurappa became the MLA here, the society didnt back him, the SC and other backward communities did. Hes at the position hes in today because of these communities. After he became an MLA, he distanced himself from them and got close to others. Hes a casteist politician. 13 crore for the Sadashiva Commission was released by him and it couldnt have been recommended to the Centre without his knowledge. Hes directly responsible for the situation today and the community will teach him a lesson in the upcoming elections.

Political expert Chambi Puranik said, The margin of victory might have an impact to some extent, but not so much that will result in his defeat. If Yediyurappa and Vijayendra clarify regarding the issue in their campaigns, they might convince the community, and the younger generation especially. People in Shikaripur dont have any good alternative. Therefore, it is not alarming and the BJP might safely retain the constituency.

Vijayendra himself is upbeat about his prospects, though. Last week, he stated that he had already toured the constituency and reached out to every village and every booth. He maintained that he was willing to take up any challenge given to him by the party. All communities are supporting me, he said, when specifically asked about the Banjaras.
Bullying and harassment are among reasons why soldiers commit suicide or kill fellow troopers, a task force of the Union home ministry has found, according to officials aware of the matter. Four soldiers were shot dead by a colleague at Bathinda military station in the early hours of April 12. (PTI)

The panel during its probe over the past one year found at least two cases of bullying and harassment that led to killings. One of the incidents took place at a Central Reserve Police Force camp in Chhattisgarh in November 2021 when four people were killed by a jawan. The other was at the Border Security Force camp in Punjab in March 2022.

The home ministry had informed Parliament last month that the report was being prepared.

The most recent incident, a result of harassment and bullying by colleagues, was reported from Bathinda, Punjab. An army soldier was arrested on Monday for the murder of four people at the Bathinda military station in the early hours of April 12.

Also Read | Bathinda military station firing: Witness jawan arrested for killing four soldiers

To be sure, the task force committee report is only for the paramilitary forces such as the CRPF, BSF, Indo-Tibetan Border Police, Sashastra Seema Bal, Assam Rifles, and Central Industrial Security Force.

As part of the process to identify the causes for fratricide in forces, we looked at past cases and interviewed the personnel. Bullying and harassment had emerged as one of the reasons why jawans take their lives. The harassment could be by colleagues and not necessarily seniors, said an official aware of the probe report who declined to be named.

By fratricide, the report meant the killing of colleagues or friendly troopers.

Coupled to this, another reason we identified was the lack of support by family members. The jawan who is already under stress feels there is no one to look up to him and ends his life or commits homicide, he added.

Also Read | Bathinda firing incident: What happened and what is fratricide?

The report has stressed the importance of the family support to bring down the cases, the official said.

Last month, the home ministry told Parliament that there were 29 cases of fratricide across the seven paramilitary forces between 2018 and 2022, but ruled out any increasing trend. Most of the cases were reported in 2021 (nine), followed by seven in 2020, According to official data presented in the Lok Sabha on March 28,

Of these, 15 cases were reported from the CRPF, nine from the BSF and two from the CISF. One incident each was reported from the ITBP, Assam Rifles and the SSB.

Between 2018 and 2022, the six paramilitary forces along with National Security Guard, reported 436 suicides. Listing out reasons for the cases, junior home minister Nityanand Rai had said: Causative factors in most incidents were generally personal and domestic problems, family issues, depression and work-related issues.

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Bengaluru: A toddler on Monday drowned in a pit dug by the Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewage Board (BWSSB) to install a pipeline in Doddagollarahatti, said police. Police said an FIR has been registered at Byadarahalli police station against the BWSSB engineer concerned and the contractor on charges of causing death due to negligence. (HT Archives)

The two-and-a-half-year-old child, Kartik , was playing outside when the incident took place around 10.30am on Monday, said police.

An FIR has been registered at Byadarahalli police station against the BWSSB engineer concerned and the contractor on charges of causing death due to negligence.

Based on the complaint of the childs father Hanuman, an FIR was registered against a BWSSB engineer and a contractor under Section 304A (causing death by negligence) of IPC, said a senior police officer.

Hanuman (25) is a native of Uttar Pradesh and works as a wall painter. He was away at work, and his pregnant wife was home when the incident took place, said police.

At 10.30, Hanumans wife Hamsa called him and informed him that Kartik had been missing for a while. Hanuman returned home and on way spotted Kartiks body inside the pit, said police.

In his complaint, Hanuman has alleged that the BWSSB did not cover the pit after finishing the pipeline work.

Chief engineer (Kaveri) maintenance, BWSSB, Rajashekar A said that the contractor of the pipeline work is responsible for the incident. Action will be taken against engineers responsible for the supervision. Due to the ongoing election duty, it appears as if our engineers lacked in supervising the project. The pit should have been closed. They only placed a tape as a barricade. The child mustve slipped and fallen inside when he passed by the pit, he said in a statement.
New FIR against Kiran Patel, this time for alleged fraud over sale of property Kiran Patel, who was arrested in Jammu and Kashmir for posing as a senior official at the Prime Ministers Office, was booked in a fresh case in connection with alleged fraud in a property worth 80 lakh in Ahmedabads Narol area. Read more Conman Kiran Patel, who obtained government security by falsely identifying as a PMO official in Jammu and Kashmir, was brought to the Ahmedabad Crime branch from Jammu and Kashmir, in Ahmedabad on Saturday.(ANI)

INX Media case: ED attaches properties belonging to Karti Chidambaram, others

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Tuesday attached assets worth over 11 crore belonging to Congress MP Karti Chidambaram and others in connection with alleged INX media money laundering case. Read more

Fashion tips by BTS Jimin, Suga, Jungkook, RM as OT7 slay bucket hat style at J-Hope's military farewell with Jin and V

BTS Army can't keep calm and is currently too emotional as BTS members Kim Seokjin aka Jin, Kim Namjoon aka RM, Min Yoongi aka Suga, Park Jimin, Taehyung aka V and Jeon Jungkook came together to bid K-Pop rapper Jung Hoseok aka J-Hope a special farewell ahead of his mandatory military service for South Korea and we can't help but take fashion tips from the OT7's bucket hat style game. Read more

Priyanka Chopra says she did almost 80% of the stunts in Citadel: I have done action films in Bollywood

Priyanka Chopra will be next seen in The Russo Brothers-helmed Citadel. The highly anticipated show sees the actor alongside Richard Madden and Stanley Tucci. Read more

Rohit Sharma rewrites IPL history, Mumbai Indians captain joins Virat Kohli in elite list during MI vs SRH encounter

Rohit Sharma played a stroke-filled knock to kickstart Mumbai Indians' (MI) innings on a bright note in match No. 25 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Tuesday. Read more

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Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Mahua Moitra on Tuesday slammed the Gujarat government for claiming privilege over the files of remission or pre-mature release of the 11 convicts of the Bilkis Bano gang-rape case. Trinamool MP Mahua Moitra. (PTI)

Read here: 'Pregnant woman gang-raped': SC questions Bilkis Bano rapists' release

While speaking to the reporters, she said, "This is a delaying tactic on the part of Centre and Gujarat governments. They were clearly in contempt as they didn't produce the files".

The government has claimed privilege over the pre-mature release of the convicts and said that it is likely to seek review of the court's March 27 order of showing records used in the remission of sentence.

The Supreme Court while hearing on the pleas filed by Bilkis Bano and others challenging the remission of the convicts, said, "A pregnant woman was gang-raped and several people were killed. You cannot compare victim's case with standard section 302 (murder) cases. Like you cannot compare apples with oranges, similarly massacre cannot be compared with single murder. Crimes are generally committed against society and the community. Unequals cannot be treated equally."

"The question is whether the government applied its mind and what material formed the basis of its decision to grant remission. Today it is Bilkis but tomorrow it can be anyone. It may be you or me. If you do not show your reasons for grant of remission, then we will draw our own conclusions," the court observed.

The court posted the clutch of pleas challenging the remission to the convicts for final disposal on May 2. It has also ordered all the convicts who have not been served notice to file their replies.

It also asked the Centre and the state government to make its stand clear about filing of a review plea.

Read here: Trinamool MP Mahua Moitra slams UP CM 'Ajay Bisht' over Asad Ahmad killing

All the 11 convicts were granted remission by the Gujarat government and released on August 15, 2022. Bilkis Bano, a then 21-year-old and five-month pregnant woman was gang-raped while fleeing the riots that broke out after the Godhra train burning incident in 2002. Her three-year-old daughter was among the seven family members killed.

(With inputs from agencies)
External affairs minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar on Tuesday hit out at senior Congress leader Siddaramaiah's claim of 31 people from Karnataka being stranded in civil war-hit Sudan. External affairs minister S Jaishankar. (ANI)

Simply appalled at your tweet! There are lives at stake; dont do politics. Since the fighting started on April 14th, the Embassy of India in Khartoum has been continuously in touch with most Indian Nationals and PIOs in Sudan, the minister tweeted.

Their details and locations cannot be made public for security reasons. Their movement is constrained by fierce fighting that is ongoing. Plans regarding them have to take into account a very complicated security scenario. The Embassy is in constant touch with the Ministry in that regard, he added.



It is grossly irresponsible of you to politicize their situation. No electoral goal justifies endangering Indians abroad, the minister added.



Earlier, the former Karnataka chief minister in a tweet had claimed that 31 members of the Hakki Pikki tribe were stranded in Sudan. Siddaramaiah urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi, home minister Amit Shah, external affairs minister S Jaishankar and Karnataka chief minister Basavaraj Bommai to ensure their safe return.



Hakki Pikkis in Sudan are left stranded without food since the last few days & the govt is yet to initiate action to bring them back. @BJP4India govt should immediately open diplomatic discussions & reach out to international agencies to ensure the well-being of Hakki Pikkis, the Congress leader added.



It is also unfortunate to know that we have lost one Indian & 60 others in the ongoing civil war in Sudan. My deepest condolences to their families and pray for the peace in the region, he added.

An Indian national named Albert Augestine had died after being hit by a stray bullet amid army-paramilitary clashes in Sudan. He was working for the Dal Group Company in the African country.

As of now, Sudan's rival commanders have agreed to a 24-hour ceasefire after pressure from US secretary of state Antony Blinken over deadly fighting that has engulfed the capital city of Khartoum, Reuters reported.

The conflict between Sudan's armed ruling factions broke out four days ago and has killed at least 185 people across the country, triggering what the United Nations has described as a catastrophic humanitarian crisis, including the near collapse of the health system.

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Public figures cannot be thin-skinned as it would entirely stifle criticism, former Maharashtra minister Aaditya Thackeray has said in response to a civil defamation suit filed against him and others in the Delhi high court. He added it is a regular practice for politicians to comment on each others conduct in political discourse. Aaditya Thackeray. (HT PHOTO)

Rahul Shewale, the Lok Sabha floor leader of Maharashtra chief minister Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction, filed the suit against Aditya Thackeray, former Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray, and their party colleague Sanjay Raut.

On March 28, the high court admitted the suit and issued notices to the three seeking their responses over their comments alleging the Shinde faction spent 2,000 crore to get Shiv Senas name and bow and arrow symbol.

In his reply, Aditya Thackeray said as public figures, politicians such as Shewale ought to take the bouquets as well as brickbats.

Raut last week called the defamation suit a malafide attempt at muzzling free speech. In his response filed in the matter in the Delhi high court on April 13, he reiterated allegations of corruption.

Raut cited his fundamental right to free speech under the Constitutions Article 19(1)(a). Raut referred to reliable information and said he genuinely believes that the Shinde faction committed unconstitutional acts in exchange for monetary consideration running into crores of rupees for the lure of power.

He said he has not made any statement that 2000 crores was paid to the Election Commission of India (ECI). Raut said a political party is an inanimate organisation that cannot be the subject matter of a defamation suit. Defamation, by its very nature, relates to the reputation of a human being.

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The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Tuesday said it has arrested its former sepoy for conducting a fake raid at a coffee shop in Kolkata and issuing forged summons to an accused. The sepoy  a head constable rank personnel of the SSB was working in ED on deputation in 2019-2020. (Representative file image)

The sepoy, identified as Sukumar Kamaliya  a head constable rank personnel of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), who was working in ED on deputation in 2019-2020, was taken into custody by the agency on April 16 under prevention of money laundering act.

A statement issued by the agency on Tuesday stated - Kamaliya was found to be involved in conducting unauthorised search operation (by way of impersonation) in Kolkata and also issuing forged/ fraudulent summons to one of the persons under investigation by impersonating the investigating officer.

Also Read:Delhi assembly passes resolution against misuse of CBI, ED

In one case, he obtained information about the investigation being conducted against a person in an unauthorised manner and during his posting and after his repatriation, as a part of an extortion plan, issued a fraudulent summons to the said person to extort money from him, the ED said.

The said summons was forwarded through WhatsApp from his mobile so that the said person should contact him directly and money can be extorted from him, it added.

Similarly, he conducted an unauthorised search operation in a coffee shop in south Kolkata and threatened the owner of the coffee shop to pay 10 lakh.

The owner of the coffee shop lodged a complaint with the ED following which the agency took cognizance of the matter and raided the residence of its former sepoy that resulted in the recovery and seizure of certain incriminating documents and electronic gadgets, ED statement added.

ED has already created a system where people issued summons can check the authenticity by scanning a QR code provided on the document.

Besides, it has appealed to people to contact the agency for any verification of summons.
Union Health Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya on Tuesday said that the G20 nations' delegates have showed a great interest in implementing schemes like Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) in their respective countries. The union minister along with the G20 delegates visited a Janaushadhi Kendra in Goa. (Twitter/ @mansukhmandviya)

Read here: Govt eyes curbs on online pharmacies but may allow digital prescriptions

The union minister along with the G20 delegates visited a Janaushadhi Kendra on the sidelines of the second G20 Health Working Group Meeting being held at Panjim, Goa under India's G20 presidency.

Mandaviya tweeted, "Explained to them the model of PMBJP and how it is benefitting the common people by providing quality and affordable medicines. The G20 delegates showed great interest in the Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana and highly praised the noble initiative".

While speaking to news agency ANI, the minister said, "During India's G20 presidency, a health group meeting is being conducted in Goa. Today Health ministry and delegates from G20 countries visited Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana Kendra. UNICEF, WHO and other international organisations also visited our Kendra and showed interest in implementing Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana Kendra in their countries".

He further said that cheap medicines are readily available to the country's middle class and poor people through these Kendras. "India has never equated health with commerce and India will always help anyone interested in implementing our schemes", the minister added.

Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP):

Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) was launched in 2008 by the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, Government of India, with an aim to make quality generic medicines available at affordable prices to all .

As on January 31, 2023, 9,082 Jan Aushadhi outlets were functional across the country under the PMBJP. Moreover, 743 districts out of 764 districts of India have been covered so far under the scheme.

"This scheme ensures 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 Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs) to 10,000 by the end of December,2023. Product basket of PMBJP comprises 1,759 drugs and 280 surgical instruments," he said.

Read here: Covovax to be available on CoWIN as booster dose soon. Check details

News agency PTI while quoting a government official reported that around 12 lakh people visit these outlets on a daily basis across the country. Medicines available under PMBJP are priced 50%-90% less than that of branded prices.

Till February 15, 2023, Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI), the implementing agency of PMBJP, witnessed sales of more than 1,000 crore which has further led to savings of around 6,000 crore for the citizens, the report added.
The ministry of civil aviation (MoCA) on Monday granted site clearance for the new Greenfield Airport project in Kerala's Kottayam district which falls close to Sabarimala temple in the Pathanamthitta district. This announcement is expected to be beneficial for thousands of devotees who travel to the state to visit the revered shrine of Lord Ayyappa. Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter on Tuesday to share the civil aviation ministry's announcement.

The project received clearance after multiple rounds of discussions between the ministry and Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation (KSIDC), the project proponent. The Ministry has stated that this airport will improve connectivity and contribute to the overall development of the region.

The Kottayam Greenfield Airport project will be developed on a 2,250-acre land, through a Public Private Partnership (PPP) model with an investment of approximately Rs. 4,000 crores.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter on Tuesday to share the civil aviation ministry's announcement about the new airport at Sabarimala, hailing it as "great news" for tourism, particularly for those on a spiritual journey.

Great news for tourism and especially spiritual tourism, Modi wrote.

In an earlier tweet, PM Modi spoke about his own Lok Sabha constituency Varanasi, where Kashi Vishwanath shrine is located and encouraged visitors to explore the ancient temple city. He described Kashi as mesmerising and said there will be more than 10 reasons to visit the holy site.

Last week, Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan confirmed that the groundwork for a new airport at Sabarimala has commenced after securing all the required permissions, news agency PTI reported.

He made the announcement during the inauguration of a significant road project in Pathanamthitta district, where the renowned hilltop temple of Lord Ayyappa is situated. At an online event, he stated, Process has been initiated to construct a new airport for Sabarimala. Necessary permissions for the same have been received.

During the two-month annual pilgrimage season in November and December, the Sabarimala shrine receives a large number of devotees from different parts of the country and abroad. In the 2022 season, the Travancore Devaswom Board reported that almost 30 lakh pilgrims had visited the temple.

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Indian Youth Congress' (IYC) Assam chief Angkita Dutta on Tuesday accused youth wing's national president Srinivas BV of harassment on the basis of her gender. The youth leader, who is also the daughter of former Assam minister Anjan Dutta, alleged in multiple tweets that Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi failed to take steps against the matter despite her complaints. IYC national president Srinivas BV and IYC Assam chief Angkita Dutta(Twitter)

@IYC President @srinivasiyc has continually harnessed me and was discriminating on the basis of my gender. My values and education doesnt allow me anymore. The leadership has played deaf ears despite bring front of them MANY TIMES @RahulGandhi @kcvenugopalmp @priyankagandhi, she said in a tweet.

In one of her tweets, Dutta mentioned that she appraised Rahul Gandhi about the harassment in Jammu when the Bharat Jodo Yatra was entering its last leg, however, there is no action taken against the IYC president.

I am a woman leader. If I undergo such harassment, how am I supposed to encourage women to join the Congress? she asked.

Responding to Dutta's tweets, the IT cell of the Youth Congress said it is initiating strong/stringent legal action against her for using utterly unparliamentary, undignified, defamatory, malicious words against Srinivas BV.

Whoever is found indulged in propagating/peddling false & defamatory content against the@IYC President @srinivasiyc ji will be held liable under the relevant laws & will be held accountable for his own acts, the IYC also said in a tweet.

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World Heritage Day, also known as International Day for Monuments and Sites, is observed on April 18th. The day is aimed at celebrating as well as raising awareness about the heritage treasures of the world and preserving them for future generations. Need to preserve Indian heritage sites is an issue that was pressed on World Heritage Day.

In the Indian context, leaders such as Nitin Gadkari, Pramod Sawant, Devendra Fadnavis and others took to social media platforms and raised the urgency of protecting the heritage sites of the world.

On this World Heritage Day, let us take a moment to appreciate the rich cultural and historical heritage of our country. India is home to a plethora of World Heritage Sites, each of which bears testimony to our country's diverse and vibrant past, wrote Minister of Road Transport & Highways, Nitin Gadkari.

#WorldHeritageDay

"For a proud state that boasts of Indias highest number of Unesco World Heritage Sites, on this World Heritage Day, let's pledge to preserve the historical heritage of our magnificent Maharashtra!

   

#worldheritageday #MaharashtraTourism #CST #AjantaCave" said Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis.

Goa CM Pramod Sawant too reflected on the importance of preserving this heritage site for future. He said, "#WorldHeritageDay reflects the importance of preserving our heritage for the future.

On this World Heritage Day, let us together pledge to protect, preserve and promote our heritage sites that are a testament to our history and culture."

"Greetings to all on World Heritage Day.

I welcome you all to explore and experience India's exuberant Cultural and Natural Heritage with Indian Railways as it takes you through plains, plateaus, mountains and waterfalls," wrote Minister of State for Railways & Textiles, Darshana Jardosh.

BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra too tweeted, "Greetings to everyone on World Heritage Day.

Let's take a moment to appreciate and realise the need to protect the world's cultural and natural treasures that make our planet so diverse and beautiful."

#WorldHeritageDay

Meanwhile, the Indian embassy in Sri Lanka tweeted, As the World marks #heritageday, the two neighbours - #India and #SriLanka - celebrate their shared heritage over centuries. From #Buddhism, to arts and culture, there are innumerable threads that bind the people of  and  .We dedicate this special day to these abiding bonds.
Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has lauded his Punjab counterpart Bhagwant Mann for the action against fugitive pro-Khalistani leader Amritpal Singh and his outfit 'Waris Punjab De'.

"I want to thank the chief minister of Punjab for taking the right action (against pro-Khalistanis) at the right time. I don't have any political issues in this matter," Sarma said in an interview to TV9 Bharatvarsh.

When asked about giving credit to Kejriwal for the Punjab action, Sarma, however, reiterated that Delhi is more like a "municipal corporation", and Arvind Kejriwal is its chief minister.

Kejriwal ji is the chief minister of only one municipality. When there will be a comparison between the Guwahati municipality and Delhi, I will talk about Kejriwal. But Bhagwant Mann ji is the chief minister of a big state, he has taken good action against Khalistanis.

When asked if he wanted to give any advice to Mann, Sarma said, In fact, right now, I want to take advice from Mann ji on how he has successfully conducted the operation (against Amritpal Singh and his outfit) If someone is doing good work, he should be appreciated. The crackdown was important for the country, the Assam chief minister said.

Kejriwal and Mann earlier this month addressed a large gathering of party workers from across the state during his one-day visit to Guwahati.

You may have become Assams chief minister, but you havent learnt Assams culture, said the Delhi chief minister while launching an attack on Sarma during his first visit to the state. Sarma hit back at Kejriwal at a press conference later at night and accused him of being a coward.

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PATNA: Seven excise department inspectors were issued show cause notice for negligence by the East Champaran district magistrate (DM) for the hooch tragedy that has killed 31 people, a senior government official said. nurse examines a man who allegedly consumed suspected spurious liquor in Motihari on April 16 (PTI File)

Departmental action will be taken against them if their reply is not satisfactory, said East Champaran DM Sourabh Jorwar as five more people died, leading to an increase in the death toll from 26.

The move comes after Motihari superintendent of police (SP) Kantesh Kumar Mishra suspended five station house officers (SHOs), two anti-liquor task force (ALTF) officials, and nine chowkidars on April 15 and 16 after the hooch incidents came to light during the night of April 14.

Police said 183 people including two village watchmen were arrested during a drive launched by the administration against the liquor mafia and bootleggers on Tuesday.

The chowkidars were posted with Harsiddhi police station in the district and they were arrested during a drive in which they were found in an inebriated condition. They are being interrogated to know the source of liquor, the DM said.

Officials said 10 people are undergoing treatment at private hospitals.

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Indian Air Force chief Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari on Tuesday said that the 2019 air strikes against a terror facility in Pakistans Balakot demonstrated that if political will is there, air-power can be effectively used in a no war, no peace scenario, under a nuclear overhang, without allowing the situation to escalate into a full-blown conflict. Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal, VR Chaudhari delivering the address at Marshal of the Air Force Arjan Singh Memorial Seminar (IAF Twitter)

This is very important given the nature of our adversaries. The response options available to the leadership have suddenly increased, and increasingly, air power has become an option of choice due to inherent flexibility and unmatched precision strike capability, Chaudhari said in his inaugural address at the Marshal of the Air Force Arjan Singh Memorial seminar on Aerospace Power: Pivot to Future Battlespace Operations.

The air strikes against the Jaish-e-Mohammed terror base were Indias response to the Pulwama suicide car bomb attack in which 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) men were killed on February 14, 2019. Twelve days later, the IAFs Mirage fighter jets hit three targets in Balakot, with five Israeli-origin Spice 2000 bombs with penetrator warheads that allowed them to pierce through the rooftops before exploding inside to cause maximum damage.

The Balakot air strikes were significant as they were IAFs first peacetime, cross-border strikes. Pakistan air force fighters made a failed attempt to bomb Indian military installations on February 27, 2019, leading to an aerial engagement along the Line of Control during which Wing Commander (now Group Captain) Abhinandan Varthaman scripted military aviation history by downing an F-16, seconds before his own MiG-21 Bison was hit by a missile forcing him to eject. He was captured after he bailed out of his aircraft, but Pakistan returned him to India on March 1 after holding him captive for almost 60 hours.

Indias security concerns require that it puts in place adequate military power to achieve deterrence, ensure information dominance, coerce when needed, and provide multiple response options, Chaudhari added.

Attributes of aerospace power enable the leadership to formulate an appropriate strategy with due cognizance given to the desired end state, conflict termination criteria and escalation matrix.

High speed, reduced response time, long reach, increased mobility, technological intensity, precision firepower, shock effect, ability to operate across domains, and network centric operations have made aerospace power a formidable component of Indias military might, Chaudhari said.

Considering the advantages that aerospace power offers, aerospace control and dominance will become a crucial factor in future battlespace operations, the IAF chief said.

Chaudhari added that the foremost lesson that can be drawn from developments in the 20th century and early 21st century is that no war can be successfully prosecuted without aerospace power, quoting legendary British commander Field Marshal Bernard Law Montgomery who said if we lose war in the air, we lose the war and lose it quickly.:

The traditional battlefield has long vanished from the lexicon of modern strategists, and what is increasingly being used is battlespace in the land, sea, air, cyber and space domains, he said.

We must acknowledge that the wars of the future will be fought differently. Adversaries will use lethal as well as non-lethal weapons, wars will be fought across multiple domains and will not distinguish between combatants and non-combatants, the IAF chief said.

He said the future battlespace will be increasingly complex and characterised by heavy dependence on technology, asymmetric nature of threats, expanded battlespaces, high tempo of operations, enhanced lethality, compressed sensor-to-shooter cycles, and media scrutiny.

To see first and see clearly, to reach first and reach farthest, and to strike first and strike with precision will be the mantra for fighting modern wars, he said.

Aerospace power will dominate all surface and air operations of the future, said Air Marshal Anil Chopra (retd), director general, Centre for Air Power Studies. Air and space will become a single domain, and near space (20 km to 99 km) capabilities is what the world is beginning to exploit, he added.
Indian Air Force (IAF) chief Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari on Tuesday said the 2019 air strikes against a terror facility in Pakistans Balakot demonstrated that if political will is there, aerospace power can be effectively used in a no war, no peace scenario, under a nuclear overhang, without allowing the situation to escalate into a full-blown conflict. Indian Air Force (IAF) chief Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari said the future battlespace will be increasingly complex. (PTI photo)

This is very important given the nature of our adversaries. The response options available to the leadership have suddenly increased, and increasingly, air power has become an option of choice due to inherent flexibility and unmatched precision strike capability, Chaudhari said in his inaugural address at the Marshal of the Air Force Arjan Singh Memorial seminar on Aerospace Power: Pivot to Future Battlespace Operations.

The air strikes against the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror base were Indias response to the Pulwama suicide car bomb attack in which 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) men were killed on February 14, 2019.

Also Read: IAF chief seeks self-reliance in design and development

Twelve days later, the IAFs Mirage fighter jets hit three targets in Balakot, with five Israeli-origin Spice 2000 bombs with penetrator warheads that allowed them to pierce through the rooftops before exploding inside to cause maximum damage.

Indias security concerns require that it puts in place adequate military power to achieve deterrence, ensure information dominance, coerce when needed, and provide multiple response options, he said.

Attributes of aerospace power enable the leadership to formulate an appropriate strategy with due cognizance given to the desired end state, conflict termination criteria and escalation matrix.

High speed, reduced response time, long reach, increased mobility, technological intensity, precision firepower, shock effect, ability to operate across domains, and network centric operations have made aerospace power a formidable component of Indias military might, Chaudhari said.

Considering the advantages that aerospace power offers, aerospace control and dominance will become a crucial factor in future battlespace operations, the IAF chief said.

Chaudhari said the foremost lesson that can be drawn from developments in the 20th century and early 21st century is that no war can be successfully prosecuted without aerospace power, while quoting legendary British commander Field Marshal Bernard Law Montgomery who had said if we lose war in the air, we lose the war and lose it quickly.

The traditional battlefield has long vanished from the lexicon of modern strategists, and what is increasingly being used is battlespace in the land, sea, air, cyber and space domains, he said.

We must acknowledge that the wars of the future will be fought differently. Adversaries will use lethal as well as non-lethal weapons, wars will be fought across multiple domains and will not distinguish between combatants and non-combatants, the IAF chief said.

He said the future battlespace will be increasingly complex and characterised by heavy dependence on technology, asymmetric nature of threats, expanded battlespaces, high tempo of operations, enhanced lethality, compressed sensor-to-shooter cycles, and media scrutiny.

To see first and see clearly, to reach first and reach farthest, and to strike first and strike with precision will be the mantra for fighting modern wars, he said.
Amid a spate of student suicides at the countrys premier Indian Institutes of Technology, the IIT council led by the Union education minister on Tuesday directed that the institutes ensure zero tolerance for discrimination at their campuses and provide a robust support system. Several incidents of death by suicide have been reported among students at IIT campuses over the last few months (Praful Gangurde/HT Photo)

The matter was discussed during the 55th meeting of the IIT council held in Bhubaneswar on Tuesday. The education minister Dharmendra Pradhan-chaired council, which looks after administrative and other key affairs at the IITs, met after two years. It includes directors and chairpersons of all 23 IITs and members of Parliament.

During the meeting, Pradhan emphasised that IIT students should become the face of new India with no discrimination.

IITs should provide all support systems for students and should have zero tolerance for all kinds of discrimination, he said, while expressing concern over the recent cases of suicide.

Several incidents of death by suicide have been reported among students at IIT campuses over the last few months. The death of an 18-year-old Dalit student at IIT-Bombay in February sparked allegations of caste discrimination even as the institution denied it. Besides, two cases of death by suicide among students of IIT-Madras also created an uproar.

In March, the ministry informed Parliament that 33 students died by suicide at IITs since 2018, nearly half of them from marginalised communities.

During the meeting, the director of IIT-Gandhinagar, Rajat Moona, presented the possible underlying societal, psychological and other health issues behind depression among students.

The council discussed several steps needed to ensure mental health and wellness of students at IITs. The council focussed on the need of a robust grievance redressal system, increasing psychological counselling services, reducing pressure and highlighting the importance of reducing fear of failure/rejection among students, the ministry said in a statement.

According to council members, the minister questioned the institutions about the possible reasons behind the recent cases of suicide. It has been discussed that the council will come up with some new guidelines for students well being. Although all IITs already have a support mechanism in place for students, it was discussed to ensure that each institute should have a students wellness center, and help of counsellors and faculty advisers may also be sought, said a council member, requesting anonymity.

The council also discussed possible reasons behind students dropping out. Pradhan asked the IITs to provide multiple exit options to students as prescribed under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

Earlier this month, the ministry informed Parliament that 2,544 students from the other backward classes (OBC) category, 1,362 from the scheduled caste (SC) and 538 from the scheduled tribe (ST) categories dropped out of IITs in the last five years.

The council also agreed to enhance support to SC and ST students. It has also been resolved to enhance the tenure of support to female PhD students for one more additional year, the ministry said.

The council also discussed measures to help students overcome the language barrier.

The possibility of offering courses in regional languages was also discussed. The AICTE has already started technical courses in regional languages. However, IITs will have to deliberate further on making any such decision, said another council member, requesting anonymity.

The premier engineering institutions have been asked to strictly implement reservation in faculty recruitment.

In 2020, the ministry asked IITs to extend reservation to senior positions, and the institute had also been prohibited from de-reserving the reserved post after a year. Prior to that, the IITs were only reserving posts while recruiting faculty at the entry level of assistant professors.

Officials said the IITs raised the challenges in filling reserved posts with the ministry. However, the ministry has strictly asked them to find out ways to implement reservation, said the second official quoted above.

Meanwhile, officials said the discussion regarding changes in fee structure was not taken up in the meeting although it was on the agenda. The fee structure of IITs was last revised in 2016.

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NEW DELHI: India and Russia on Tuesday agreed to work jointly to unlock the full potential of their economic relationship by addressing the trade deficit and market access issues. External affairs minister S Jaishankar co-chaired the 24th session of India-Russia Intergovernmental Commission for Trade, Economic, Scientific and Cultural Cooperation with Russia deputy prime minister Denis Manturov, in New Delhi (ANI)

These issues were discussed at a meeting of the Inter-governmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation that was co-chaired by external affairs minister S Jaishankar and Russias deputy prime minister Denis Manturov.

The commission also discussed ways to step up engagement in trade, finance and energy, including nuclear power.

The meeting was held a day after Jaishankar and Manturov said India and Russia are discussing a free trade agreement (FTA) involving the Eurasian Economic Union. The Indian side also flagged its concerns about a widening deficit as two-way trade touched $45 billion, propelled largely by Indias purchases of discounted Russian oil

During Tuesdays meeting, the two sides reviewed the entire gamut of the bilateral trade and economic relationship, and agreed to work together to unlock its full potential, including through addressing the trade deficit and market access issues, the external affairs ministry said.

A readout from the Russian embassy said that the two sides discussed cooperation in trade, finance, industry, energy sector including nuclear power, agriculture, transport, healthcare and education.

Relations between Russia and India continue progressively developing in all directions. In 2022, despite negative external factors, positive dynamics in the Russian-Indian trade prevailed, the readout said in an apparent reference to the impact of Western sanctions over Russias invasion of Ukraine.

According to last years results, the trade turnover between our countries increased by 2.6 times, exceeding $35 billion. We have completed ahead of schedule the task set by the leaders of our countries to [take] the level of bilateral trade to $30 billion by 2025, said Manturov, who is also the minister of industry and trade.

The inter-governmental commission is a mechanism to monitor the progress of bilateral trade and economic cooperation. Manturov, who was accompanied by senior Russian officials, also held bilateral meetings with commerce minister Piyush Goyal, finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval.

During his meeting with Goyal, Manturov discussed the prospect of cooperation in railways, heavy machinery, aircraft building, shipbuilding, metallurgy and chemicals.

The need to intensify work on an FTA between the EEU and India to increase and diversify trade turnover was also noted, the Russian readout said.

At his meeting with Sitharaman, Manturov raised the necessary steps to ensure uninterrupted mutual settlements, primarily with the use of national currencies. The mutual interest in concluding an agreement on protection of investments was noted.

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The US aims to increase visa interview appointments for Indian students by 30 per cent this summer, US Consul General in Mumbai Mike Hankey said here on Tuesday. In Mumbai, the average wait time for a US visa appointment is 752 calendar days for a visitor visa and 444 days for a student visa.

He said US consulates processed nearly 1.25 lakh visa applications of students in India.

During his visit to Aurangabad, Hankey held meetings with members of industries. He also visited Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University and interacted with students.

"Last year, we sent more than 1.25 lakh Indian students to the US, setting a new record for Indian students going to the US in a year and establishing India as the leading country of sending students. This year we are trying to increase that number (of students) further," he told PTI.

Also read: US launches more initiatives to cut wait time for visa applicants

"Our goal is to expand the number of interview appointments we offer for students by 30 per cent this summer. We hope to welcome more Indian students to the USA," Hankey added.

During his interaction with students, the American envoy appealed to them to visit websites and find an appropriate curriculum for them.

The US Consulate Mumbai tweeted that Hankey met with conservationist and industrialist Mukund Bhogale to learn about the historical legacy of the Marathwada region, efforts towards the preservation of its heritage, and areas of cooperation with the citys business community.

He also interacted with an industrial delegation over supplying aluminium to support the global aerospace and defence supply chain.
Baljeet Kaur, a prominent Indian woman climber, was found alive on Tuesday, a day after she went missing near Camp IV of Mt Annapurna while descending from the summit point. Baljeet Kaur, a prominent Indian woman climber, was found alive on Tuesday. (PTI)

She had successfully scaled the worlds 10th-highest peak without using supplemental oxygen on Monday, but went missing thereafter and remained out of radio contact until finally managing to send a radio signal asking for immediate help.

An aerial search team located Baljeet Kaur above Camp IV, and efforts were initiated to conduct a long-line rescue to airlift her from the high camp.

On her rescue, trek organisers Pioneer Adventure released a statement saying, We are thrilled to share that after air-lifted from the mountain, Baljeet Kaur has safely arrived at Annapurna base camp and soon will be flown back to Kathmandu for medical examination. Baljeets accomplishment is truly remarkable, and we cant help but admire her courage, strength and determination. Her extensive training, skills and preparation have played an instrumental role in overcoming this daunting incident.

As per the organisers, other climbers Shehroze Kashif and Naila Kiani from Pakistan and Arjun Vajpai of India have also been rescued.

Kaur, who hails from Himachal Pradesh, is the first Indian mountaineer to scale four 8,000-metre peaks in less than a month, a feat she achieved last season.

While Kaur was stuck above Camp IV, Anurag Malu, from Rajasthan, was also reported missing.

Noel Hanna, the first person from Ireland to reach the summit of K2 during the winter season, breathed his last in Camp IV last night.

(With inputs from agencies)
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Tuesday attached assets worth 11.04 crore belonging to Congress MP Karti Chidambaram and others in connection with alleged INX media money laundering case. The seized assets include both movable and immovable properties in Karnataka's Coorg district, according to a statement. Congress MP Karti Chidambaram(PTI)

During investigation, it was revealed that illegal gratification (proceeds of crime) was received directly and indirectly from INX Media Pvt Ltd, to which accused P Chidambaram granted FIPB (Foreign Investment Promotion Board) approval via shell companies controlled/beneficially owned/used by another accused, Karti Chidambaram, ED said in a statement.

The Congress MP is the son of former Union finance minister and veteran Congress leader P Chidambaram.

The ED investigation started after the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) registered a complaint against P Chidambaram where it was contended that he misused his official position when he was a Union minister, along with his son Karti, to grant approval to foreign direct investment (FDI) to INX Media and INX News Pvt Ltd in lieu of illegal gratification in India through offshore payments. In an FIR, CBI alleged irregularities in the FIPB in allowing INX Media to receive offshore funds to the tune of 305 crore in 2007. It led ED to lodge a money-laundering case.

Earlier, the former Union minister was arrested by CBI in the case in August 2019. The ED arrested him in the same year in October. He got bail in both cases.

Karti Chidambaram had earlier alleged that the BJP-led Centre has been carrying out a politically motivated vendatta against his family.

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The CBI on Monday arrested an income tax official in a 30 lakh bribery case. The official allegedly aided his senior officer to escape a trap laid by the Gujarat ACB last year and then threw his two mobile phones in a river to wipe out evidence related to the incident. A general view of the Sabarmati River near Ahmedabad.(AFP)

After a meticulous operation, the CBI retrieved evidence that included two mobile handsets that the former assistant commissioner discarded in the Sabarmati river.

A CBI spokesperson said that tools such as diving equipment and a vehicle fortified with cutting-edge sonar technology were used to recover the incriminating mobiles.

The official, Johri who was posted in Ahmedabad, was arrested in connection with a case registered on October 12 last year on a reference from the Gujarat government related to the bribery of 30 Lakh, the CBI spokesperson said.

"It was alleged that the then assistant commissioner of Income Tax had facilitated the escape of Additional Commissioner (Santosh Karnani) from his office by creating a ruckus during the trap proceedings on October 4, 2022 laid by the anti corruption bureau (ACB) of Gujarat," he added further.

(With PTI inputs)

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Bengaluru: The immovable assets of Karnataka minister MTB Nagaraj and his wife are worth  1,072 crore. (HT Archives)

As the candidates have begun filing their affidavits ahead of the May 10 assembly elections, Karnataka minister MTB Nagaraj continues to be the richest candidate in the state with assets worth over 1,609 crore.

He filed the papers on Monday as the ruling BJPs candidate from the Hoskote assembly segment on the outskirts of Bengaluru.

In his election affidavit, Nagaraju, who has mentioned his occupation or profession as agriculturist and business, along with his wife M Shanthakumari, a housewife, together own movable assets worth 536 crore.

The couples immovable assets are worth 1,072 crore. Nagaraju, while contesting the Legislative Council election in June 2020, had declared assets worth about 1,220 crore, along with his wife.

In the affidavit filed on Monday along with the nomination, the couple has declared total liabilities of 98.36 crore.

Nagaraju in the 2018 assembly polls had won from Hoskote from Congress. He was one of the 17 MLAs who later defected from the party that led to the collapse of the Congress-JD(S) coalition government in 2019.

In the subsequently held bypolls he lost from Hoskote against independent candidate Sharath Bachegowda, who is now with Congress. Both are facing each other once again.

Senior Congress leader DK Shivakumars affidavit revealed that the assets of the KPCC president have increased by 68% compared to his affidavit in 2018. Shivakumar announced his total assets and those of his family members at a combined value of 1,414 crore.

The value of Shivakumars assets in 2013 stood at 251 crore and in 2018, the combined value of the property held by him, and his family was pegged at 840 crore. Showing a steep rise in 2023, Shivakumars assets saw 68% growth in the last five years.

The affidavit also revealed that he holds 12 bank accounts, some of which are jointly managed by his brother DK Suresh. Shivakumar also has a loan amounting to 225 crore, according to his affidavit. Only one Toyota car is registered with his name, and it is valued at 830,000. He also declared his annual income at 14.24 crore and his wifes annual income is 1.9 crore.

Karnataka chief minister Basavaraj Bommai has assets of 49.70 crore, reveals his election affidavit filed before the returning officer on Saturday to contest from Shiggaon constituency in Haveri district.

The investment details show that he has movable properties of 5.98 crore, while he got 1.57 crore from the Hindu Undivided Family.

His wife Channamma has invested 1.14 crore and his daughter Aditi 1.12 crore. Since his son Bharat Bommai is not dependent on his father, his investment details have not been mentioned. However, Bommai has given 14.74 lakh to his son Bharat.

The chief minister has immovable properties of 42.15 crore which includes 19.2 crore from the Hindu Undivided Family. Bommai has a liability of 5.79 crore.

The affidavit shows that Bommai purchased nearly three acres of land in Tarihala village in Hubballi Taluk of Dharwad when he was a chief minister on March 26, 2022. In all, Bommai and his dependents have assets worth 52.12 crore.

(With inputs from PTI)

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Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan has extended his support to his Tamil Nadu counterpart MK Stalin's proposal to pass a resolution regarding setting up of specific period for governors to give assent to a bill passed in the state assembly. The Kerala CM pointed out issues faced on bills kept pending for unduly long time by governor after they were passed by the state assembly. Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan. (File Photo)(HT_PRINT)

CM Vijayan said elected governments in many states are facing this issue of pendency of bills. This is despite the fact that the ministers and officials have personally visited and given the clarifications sought by the governor, he added in his response to CM Stalin's letter to chief ministers of all-Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ruled states.

The Tamil Nadu assembly recently passed a resolution against governor RN Ravi urging the Centre and President Droupadi Murmu to fix a timeline for governors to decide on billes cleared by the state governments. This came after governor Ravi withheld several state bills that were passed by the legislatures for indefinite period.

CM Stalin urged other CMs to adopt similar resolutions in their Houses. I am sure that you will agree with the spirit and content of the resolution and extend your support in this regard to uphold the sovereignty and self-respect of the state governments and the legislators by passing a similar resolution in your State assembly, he said in the letter.

In this matter, CM Vijayan said, "We are ready to extend wholehearted cooperation to you and will consider the proposal in your letter with utmost seriousness.

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Thiruvananthapuram Pinarayi Vijayan extends support to Stalins resolution. (ANI)

Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Tuesday supported his Tamil Nadu counterpart MK Stalins decision to pass a resolution in state assembly on April 10 urging Centre and the President to fix a time limit for Governors to approve the bill passed by legislature.

Two days back Stalin had written to Vijayan requesting the Kerala assembly to pass such a resolution to uphold values of federal system of governance. The Kerala CM sent a reply to him fully supporting the move. As defenders of federal spirit of our constitution, we have to co-operate in every effort to prevent curtailing the functioning of elected governments, Vijayan said in his letter giving enough hints that Kerala will follow suit.

Like Tamil Nadu, Kerala governor Arif Mohammad Khan is also sitting over some bills passed by the assembly like the bill to remove him from the post of chancellor of universities and curtail powers of Lokayukta were pending before in Raj Bhawan for more than two months. Several bills were waiting for Governor RN Ravis approval in Tamil Nadu as well.

In the letter Stalin said his government took several efforts to clarify doubts of the governor on the bills sent by the assembly after approval. As our efforts failed, we came to know that many other states have similar issues. So we deemed fit to pass a resolution in this regard, he said emphasising the need for opposition-ruled states to come together to find a solution to the nagging issue. In reply, the Kerala chief minister has assured whole hearted support to his TN counterpart.

In Kerala the governor and state government have been at loggerheads for more two years and both utilised every opportunity to criticise each other. Tussle between the two aggravated last year after Khan asked 11 vice-chancellors to resign after the Supreme Court quashed the appointment of the VC of Kerala Technical University MS Rajashree for flouting University Grants Commission guidelines. At present the issue is before the high court.
AHMEDABAD: Kiran Patel, who was arrested in Jammu and Kashmir for posing as a senior official at the Prime Ministers Office, was booked in a fresh case in connection with alleged fraud in a property worth 80 lakh in Ahmedabads Narol area. Alleged conman Kiran Patel, who obtained government security by posing as a PMO official in Jammu and Kashmir, was brought to the Ahmedabad Crime Branch on Saturday (ANI)

Patel has been booked under sections 406 (criminal breach of trust), 420 (cheating and dishonestly inducing delivery of property) and 170 (personating a public servant) of the Indian Penal Code.

This is the sixth case against Kiran Patel in Gujarat. He is currently in police custody in connection with another case filed on April 15 for an alleged fraud of 3.51 lakh. A local court in Ahmedabad on Tuesday extended Patels police custody till April 21.

The latest FIR, filed on April 17 by the Ahmedabad Detection of Crime Branch, relates to 2017 when the complainant Upendrasinh Chavda, 36, who runs the construction company Bhavani Builders, struck a deal with Kiran Patel to purchase a land parcel measuring 1,867 square metres in Narol.

HT has reviewed the FIR

Chavda first met Patel in 2016 at Sabarmati jail when he was visiting his friend Salim Khoja. After Khojas release on bail, Chavda met Patel again and the two stayed in touch.

In 2017, Patel initially asked Chavda for a loan and when he declined, he offered to sell his ancestral property to him. They visited the site in Narol where Chavda confirmed that Patel, proprietor of Vishal corporation, was the owner of a plot spread across 4,325 square metres. Patel and Chavda finalised a 80 lakh deal to buy 1,867 sqm land parcel.

Chavda complained that he paid the amount over a period of six months but the land wasnt transferred to him.

He sent legal notice to Patel but didnt get a response. Chavda claimed that he didnt file a police complaint because their contractual with Patel was documented.

In February this year, Chavda said he got a call from Patel who allegedly told him: Upendrasinh, do not worry, I am (with) PMO office, and I have got big responsibility and work.

When he inquired about the land deal, Patel told the complainant that he was in Kashmir and sent him photos and videos of him visiting various locations with police protection, on February 27.
Jodhpur police on Monday arrested a man for allegedly harassing a Korean blogger in Rajasthan. Visuals shared on social media showed a man following the girl, who was shooting a video of herself, before flashing his private parts. The girl can be seen shouting and running away from the man in the video. Visuals shared on social media showed a man following the girl, who was shooting a video of herself, before flashing his private parts. (Twitter)

After the video went viral online, police took cognisance of the matter and took the accused into police custody. Jodhpur East DCP Amrita Duhan, in a statement to news agency ANI, said, A woman foreign tourist blogger had put up a post on her social media that a man had sexually harassed her in Jodhpur. Taking cognizance of this information, we identified the man and arrested him. She added that the arrested mans medical examination will be conducted soon.

Reacting to the video, Delhi Commission for Women chief Swati Maliwal condemned the disgusting act and said that she will be writing to Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot to take strict action in the matter.

She wrote, Just came across this video of a Korean vlogger who posted a video of her being sexually harassed in Jodhpur. This is extremely disgusting and shameful. People like these are spoiling the image of our great country. Am writing to Shri@AshokGehlot51 to take strongest action!

Last December, a South Korean YouTuber was sexually harassed by two men in Mumbai's Khar. Anger over the sexual assault erupted after a 60-second video of the YouTuber, who was filming a live video on social media at the time, showed a man grabbing her hand.

The accused - identified as Mobeen Chand Mohammad Shaikh and Mohammad Naqeeb Sadrealam Ansari from Bandra - were sent to police custody for 24 hours after their arrest.

She later acknowledged the police had been quick to react and that she intended to return to India at some point despite this episode.

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Himanta Sarma 'thanks' Punjab CM for Amritpal Singh crackdown, takes dig at Arvind Kejriwal Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has lauded his Punjab counterpart Bhagwant Mann for the action against fugitive pro-Khalistani leader Amritpal Singh and his outfit 'Waris Punjab De'. He, howeverread more. Chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. (ANI)

Parliamentary panel seeks action against OTT platforms violating norms

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An Indigo flight 6E-203 from Mumbai flight suffered a tail strike during landing at Nagpur airport. An IndiGo aircraft (HT File Photo)

The incident took place on April 14 as flight 6E 203 was on course to Nagpur from Mumbai.

"On 14th April 2023, flight 6E 203, from Mumbai had a tail strike while landing at Nagpur. The aircraft was declared grounded at Nagpur airport for assessment and repairs. The incident is being investigated in detail," IndiGo said in a statement.

No injuries were reported in the incident, the airlines said.

A tail strike occurs when the tail or empennage of an aircraft hits the ground or any other stationary object during take-off or landing.
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued notices to the director general of police of Uttar Pradesh RK Vishwakarma and the commissioner of police, Prayagraj, Ramit Sharma asking them to submit a detailed report within four weeks in the killings of gangster-politician Atiq Ahmad and his brother Ashraf on Saturday. The apex human rights body has taken cognizance of complaints received by it. (PTI photo)

The apex human rights body has taken cognizance of complaints received by it, which alleged that two brothers were killed by miscreants in public custody.

It has asked the DGP and CP Prayagraj to provide in detail all circumstances from the time of the arrest of Ahmad and his brother until their killings.

Also Read: Atiq Ahmad killing: UP SIT to recreate crime scene as part of probe

According to the commission, the report should cover all the aspects leading to death (including time, place and reason for arrest/detention), copy of complaint and first information report (FIR) registered against the deceased; copy of arrest memo and inspection memo; whether information of arrest was given to family/relatives, copy of seizure memo and recovery memo, copy of medical legal certificate of the deceased and copies of all relevant GD (general diary) extracts, which it said must be legible and transcribed in English/Hindi.

The commission has also sought details of inquest report, post-mortem report (especially description of injuries), video cassette/CD of post-mortem examination, site plan of scene of occurrence giving all the details, chemical and histopathology examination of viscera (if applicable), final cause of death based on forensic laboratory report and magisterial enquiry report.

Former member of Parliament (MP) Ahmad and his brother Ashraf were killed in full view of TV camera crews around 10pm on Saturday by three assailants identified as Sunny Singh, Lavlesh Tiwari and Arun Maurya.

The NHRC guidelines for police personnel on various human rights issues state that a person detained by the police, whether for questioning, for the purpose of verification of identity, to test alcohol level, etc., comes under the custody of police and is, therefore, under the care of the State.

It is the responsibility of the State to ensure protection of the human rights of all persons in its custody, NHRC guidelines state.

The UP police has formed a special investigation team (SIT) to probe the murders apart from the state government forming a three-member judicial commission to inquire into the killings.

The union home ministry is also keeping a watch on developments in the state in the wake of murders.
New Delhi: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is trying to ascertain if there is any Pakistan link to the violent demonstration by pro-Khalistan protesters outside the Indian high commission in London last month, as part of its probe into a larger conspiracy, according to officials aware of the matter. NIA took over the probe from Delhi Police last week after the ministry of home affairs held a meeting with UK home office representatives. (PTI)

While probing multiple cases linked to pro-Khalistan extremists in the last two years, the agency had found a strong association between Pakistans spy agency Inter Services Intelligence (ISI) and pro-Khalistan leaders operating from various countries such as the UK, Germany, Australia, the US and Canada.

In the case pertaining to the agitation outside the Indian high commission in London last month, the role of UK-based Khalistan leaders, including Avtar Singh Khanda, suspected handler of radical preacher and Waris Punjab De chief Amritpal Singh, in allegedly leading the protesters to the high commission will be in focus, the officials cited above said.

Khanda, associated with Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF), and two others  Gurcharan Singh and Jasvir Singh  have been named as key suspects in the first information report (FIR) taken up by NIA from Delhi Polices Special Cell filed four days after the protests last month.

Also Read | London High Commission violence: NIA takes over case; Khanda, Gurcharan & Jasvir named suspects

NIA took over the probe from Delhi Police last week after the ministry of home affairs (MHA) held a meeting with UK home office representatives. It is expected to send a team to London to investigate the matter.

Whenever the team visits London, NIA will share with the UK its probe findings on the involvement of Khalistan extremists in anti-India activities and their links with Pakistan-based handlers/leaders, an official said, seeking anonymity.

On March 19, pro-Khalistan protestors pulled down the Tricolour and attempted to vandalise the Indian high commission in London over the crackdown by law enforcement agencies against pro-Khalistan leader Amritpal and his aides in Punjab. Videos of the incident showed several protesters carrying the yellow and black Khalistan flag and calling for Amritpal, who is wanted by Punjab Police for various offences, to be freed. The videos showed one of the protesters clambering on to a balcony and pulling down the Indian flag from a pole at the front of the high commission to cheers from the other men.

As the British policemen arrived at the scene and prevented the protestors from approaching an entrance of the high commission, the crowd chanted slogans and hurled abuses at Indian officials within, the videos showed.

Intelligence agencies earlier said that pro-Khalistan leaders such as Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, who has been declared an individual terrorist under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), has organised demonstrations and on-ground campaigns outside Indian high commissions in the UK, the US, Canada, Germany and other countries in the past.

UK based leader of Babbar Khalsa International (BKI), Paramjit Singh Pamma, is also known for organising protests outside Indian establishments there.

Last week, Union home secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla had flagged the issue of misuse of UKs asylum policy by such elements with Sir Matthew Rycroft, Permanent Secretary, Home Office, while asking British authorities to monitor their activities.

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Thiruvananthapuram: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Tuesday took over the probe into the Kerala train fire incident that killed three people dead earlier this month after the Union home ministry issued a notification, said a senior official familiar with the matter. Police personnel during an investigation into the train fire incident in Kozhikode. (ANI File)

The official said the agencys Kochi unit will investigate the case and take the case files from the special investigation team (SIT) of the Kerala police.

The NIA move comes two days after the Kerala Police invoked the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) against a 27-year-old Delhi resident, Shahrukh Saifi.

SIT said Shahrukh Saifi, who was working as a carpenter with his father in Shaheen Bagh in Delhi, was highly radicalised and speeches of controversial preacher Zakir Naik and others were recovered from his phone. But the team acknowledged that it was unclear about Shahrukhs motives or links with other suspects.

It is a fact the SIT could not take the case further He was in police custody for over two weeks and yet the motive and conspiracy angle has not been established, said George Joseph, who retired in the rank of superintendent of police.

Joseph said usually such terror cases are investigated by central agencies. We have no idea how it (incident) happened. It is true that state police have limitations and central agencies have more reach and powers. We hope the NIA probe will take the case to its logical end, he said adding many questions remain unanswered in the case.

On April 2, accused Shahrukh Saifi allegedly sprinkled petrol and set co-passengers of a train compartment on fire after the Alappuzha-Kannur Inter-City Express train left Kozhikode station around 9.30pm. In the commotion, some passengers jumped from the running train; three people, including a child, died when they jumped out. Nine others, including Saifi, sustained burn injuries.

Saifi was caught on April 5 in Maharashtras Ratnagiri district by the states anti-terror squad, following inputs from Kerala Police and central intelligence agencies and later brought to Kerala.

His police custody will end on Wednesday after which he will be sent to Thrissur central jail, said police. His bail application is expected to come up for hearing on April 20 at the district court in Kozhikode.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken over the investigations of March 19 violence and dishonor to the Indian National Flag at Indian High Commission in London by Sikh extremists. The Narendra Modi government has taken the dishonoring of the Indian national flag by separatists very seriously.

According to inputs received from Delhi Police, the Home Ministry handed over the investigations to NIA on April 13 after the Special Cell registered a case on the incident on March 23 on the basis of a complaint filed by a London High Commission official present during the time of violence. A case under sections 109/147/148/149/120-B/448/452/325 IPC read with Section 13 of UAPA, Section 3(1) of Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act and section 2 of Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971 has been registered by the NIA on the same lines as the Delhi Police. Two officials of the Indian High Commission in London sustained grievous injuries during the violence by Sikh radicals.

The Delhi Police FIR names Sikh extremist Avtar Singh aka Khanda, Gurcharan Singh and Jasvir Singh as the principal suspects as also the London High Commission made a SOS call to Diplomatic Protection Officer at 345 hours GMT about the breach in the Indian premises by radicals on March 19. The FIR clearly mentions that 50-60 separatists were led by Khanda (who has an Indian passport number F8777***) and yellow turban wearing Gurcharan Singh. Both of these extremists along with Jasvir Singh were recognized by the London High Commission official as taking part in the violence and dishonoring of the Indian Flag. It was Khanda and Gurcharan Singh who instigated the mob to vandalize the High Commission, dishonored the flag and inflicted grievous injuries to the High Commission officials while there was no response from the London Metropolitan Police.

While the UK government has tried to dismiss the dishonoring of the Indian National Flag by Sikh extremists as part of their right to protest and freedom of speech, the Narendra Modi government has taken the incident as a barometer of its future relations with the British Government. The Modi government wants strict visible action to be taken against those named in the FIR as Khandas parents were both part of the ISI sponsored terrorist movement in Punjab in the 1990s. Khandas father was a KLF terrorist named Kulwant Singh Khukrana and mother was related to KLF leader Gurjant Singh Budhsinghwala with close connections to Pakistani deep state. Khanda entered Britain on a student visa and now seeks political asylum from the UK government for himself and others by raising human rights violations against his community in India.

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Almost 3000 km from Amritsar, Punjab, in a ward in a 166-year old prison, are nine men who are unique in several aspects. Security personnel at Assams Dibrugarh Central Jail. (PTI)

They are the only ones in jail under the National Security Act. They are the only Sikh prisoners in the jail. And they are not allowed to interact with the other prisoners.

The nine are accomplices, associates, and aides of pro-Khalistan separatist Amritpal Singh, who remains at large after a crackdown on his organisation, Waris Punjab De on March 18.

According to people familiar with the matter, the Punjab government initially thought of sending Singhs aides to Delhis Tihar jail, but because the Delhi prison houses many Punjabi gangsters, even some separatists , the government decided to send them to Assam. In 2021, the Jammu and Kashmir administration did something similar by sending people arrested under the Public Safety Act to a jail in Agra. This ensured the arrested men were lodged in a prison from their home states, where there are chances of other inmates , sometimes even jail officials helping them.

Also Read: Assam CM 'thanks' Punjab counterpart for Amritpal crackdown, takes dig at Arvind Kejriwal

The Dibrugarh prison complex was built in 1857 to house Indians who participated in the First War of Indian Independence , but has since lodged many prisoners who worked against the very notion of Indias nationhood -- members of the banned ULFA in the mid-1980s, for instance; and now, the separatists from Punjab.

Prison officials said a security review may be carried out again and security increased, if fugitive Amritpal Singh, is brought to Dibrugarh. The 30-year-old chief of Waris Punjab De, continues to evade arrest and remains on the top of the Punjab polices most wanted list.

Until a month ago, the Dibrugarh central jail was just one of six such central jails in Assam. With no prisoner of notoriety at a national level, its periphery of the jail was guarded by Assam Police, while the prisons in-house guards managed the security inside.

Over the past one month, though, it has been converted to a maximum high security prison.

We now have CRPF personnel guarding the jail round-the-clock. There are also commandos from the Assam Police. 57 CCTV cameras monitor the prisoners inside and the movement of visitors at the jail gates. Our teams fixed non-functional CCTV camera and set up high-mast lights when we were informed that the NSA-prisoners from Punjab would be brought here, said a jail official who asked not to be named.

A second jail official said that unlike other jails, the Dibrugarh jail is not packed to its maximum capacity and jail officials are better equipped to manage the inmates here. The jail has a sanctioned capacity of 680 prisoners, tbut has fewer than 430 prisoners.

This prison was the first concrete jail building in the northeastern part of the country. It was built by the British government in 1857 at the peak of Indias first war of Independence. The construction of the whole complex was completed by 1859, the second official added.

The 9 men here, including Singhs main aide, Papalpreet Singh, have not had any visitors (including family members ) since the day they were brought to Assam. While prisoners are allowed to meet their family members twice a week, those booked under the NSA have to take permission from the district magistrate to do so. Their request is also checked by officials in the Home Ministry. Officials said the 9 prisoners are however meeting with officials from the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee .

Shrabana Sonowal, the superintendent of Dibrugarh central jail, said, These 9 prisoners are kept separate from other prisoners here. It is for their safety as well as the safety of other prisoners. The prison is equipped to lodge any prisoners. They are being treated fairly, as per the law. Their lawyers visit them regularly.

Gyanendra Pratap Singh, director general of Assam Police, said the force has made adequate security arrangements for the safety of the prisoners as well as the prison. Our officers are there to ensure fool proof arrangements. Local customs followed by the inmates have been respected during their detention. All lawful milestones and procedures are being respected, Singh said.

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If external affairs minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar was busy getting appalled, he must point to the person who can help bring back people from Karnataka stuck in civil war-hit Sudan, former chief minister Siddaramaiah said on Tuesday. Leader of Opposition in Karnataka Assembly Siddaramaiah speaks to the media on Congress protest rally, in Bengaluru . (ANI)

Since you are the External Affairs Minister @DrSJaishankar I have appealed you for help. If you are busy getting appalled please point us to the person who can help us bring our people back, tweeted Siddaramaiah.

His tweet came after Jaishankar, responding to an earlier post from the Congress leader, said he (Jaishankar) was appalled at Siddaramiah's tweet.

Since the fighting started on April 14th, the Embassy of India in Khartoum has been continuously in touch with most Indian nationals and PIOs in Sudan, the external affairs minister noted.

It is grossly irresponsible of you to politicize their situation. No electoral goal justifies endangering Indians abroad, the BJP leader added, referring to the May 10 assembly election in Karnataka, where his party is seeking a re-election, and the Congress, a return to power.

What did Siddaramaiah say?

Earlier in the day, citing reports that 31 people from the southern state's Hakki Pikki tribe were stuck in the African nation, which is witnessing violent clashes between the paramilitary troops and army, Siddaramaiah appealed to the BJP-run Union government to immediately intervene & ensure their safe return.

He also extended his condolences to an Indian citizen who died after sustaining a bullet injury as the two sides battled each other. The deceased, Albert Augustine, was working with the Dal Group Company in Sudan, and died on April 16, a day after he was hit by a stray bullet.

BJP vs Congress on Sudan

Ahead of the Karnataka election, a war of words has broken out between the two parties over the issue of Kannadigas stuck in Sudan. The grand old party has slammed the saffron party for not making any effort to rescue the 31 tribals, and branded it anti-Kannadiga. In response, the BJP said it needed no lessons on rescuing stranded Indians from the Congress.

The counting of votes for the 224-seat Karnataka assembly will take place on May 13, three days after the polling. Also, it is the only state in south India where the BJP has been in power.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday lauded the setting up of PM Mega Integrated Textile Sector and Apparel (PM MITRA) textiles park in Uttar Pradesh's Lucknow and Hardoi districts. Prime Minister Narendra Modi. (File/ HT_PRINT)

Read here: Mega textile park near Lucknow in the offing

In a series of tweets, PM Modi shared the tweet by Commerce and Industry minister Piyush Goyal about the launch of the PM MITRA Textile park in UP today. He said, "Uttar Pradesh has rich tradition of textiles, a big market and consumer base. It is home to hardworking weavers and a skilled workforce. The setting up of the PM MITRA Mega Textiles Park across Lucknow and Hardoi districts will greatly benefit UP".

"Today is a very important day for all my brothers and sisters of Uttar Pradesh. PM MITRA Park is going to be launched in Lucknow and Hardoi. My best wishes to all of you on this occasion". he added.

"Spread over 1,000 acres, these PM MITRA parks are going to give impetus to the local economy as well as bring many new employment opportunities. The textile sector of the country is also going to get new strength from them", PM further tweeted.

While speaking during a program of launch and signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) of Integrated Textile Park in Lucknow on Tuesday along with state chief minister Yogi Adityanath, Union Commerce and Textiles minister Piyush Goyal said that these parks will help generate employment opportunities for the skilled manpower of Uttar Pradesh.

CM Yogi took to Twitter to share the glimpses of the launch event.

PM MITRA Park Lucknow:

The PM Mitra Park in Lucknow is being developed in 1,000 acres in Attari village of Malihabad block of Lucknow. The park is expected to fetch an investment of 10,000 crore while providing employment opportunities to one lakh people directly and two lakh people indirectly, the official statement has said.

Pertinently the park is being developed in Public Private Partnership mode through a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), which will be owned by the central and state governments.

The park will feature an incubation centre, common processing house and a common effluent treatment plant and other textile related facilities like design center and testing centre.

Under the scheme, the central government will also provide development capital assistance of 500 crore to PM Mitra Park Lucknow for the development of common basic infrastructure.

PM MITRA Scheme:

In a push to its Make in India effort and going big on the textile industry, the central government has announced to set up seven mega textile parks under PM Mega Integrated Textile Regions and Apparel (PM MITRA) scheme, which, according to the textiles ministry, will attract 70,000 crore investments, create two million jobs and immensely boost exports.

These parks will come up in seven states- Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. The government has approved PM MITRA Parks with an outlay of 4,445 crore for a period of seven years upto 2027-28.

Read here: Poll-bound Karnataka among seven states to win mega textile park project

The PM MITRA Parks would help create world-class industrial infrastructure that would attract large-scale investment, including foreign direct investment (FDI), and encourage innovation and job creation within the textile sector. the government had said earlier.

The Union Ministry of Textiles issued a notification on October 21, 2021 for setting up the seven PM MITRA Parks, as announced in the Union Budget 2021-22.

(with inputs from agencies)
Four people were killed and 20 others sustained injuries after a three-storey rice mill building collapsed in Haryana's Karnal district on Tuesday, police said. Four workers were killed and 20 others injured in rice mill building collapse in Karnal on Tuesday.(HT Photo)

The incident took place around 3 am at the Shiv Shakti rice mill in Taraori town of the district. As around 200 labourers were sleeping, the roof of the building's top floor collapsed, resulting in the death of four migrant workers.

Also Read | BMC identifies 217 unsafe buildings for demolition

According to Karnal Superintendent of Police Shashank Kumar Sawan, the four deceased individuals who were found under the debris of the collapsed building have been identified as Chandan, Avdesh, Sanjay, and Pankaj. They were migrant workers and hailed from Samastipur in Bihar.

The injured ones have been immediately taken to nearby hospitals for medical treatment.

Many workers are still feared to be trapped inside the rubble and rescue operations are currently underway, with the involvement of fire brigades, police, and ambulances.

Also Read | Truck falls into river after bridge collapses in Uttarakhand's Chamoli

National Disaster Response Force(NDRF) teams have been called in and heavy police deployment has been made as hundreds of labourers have gathered at the incident spot.

Further information about the incident is still awaited.

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The Supreme Court on Tuesday affirmed the revival of a Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) case against Assam MLA Akhil Gogoi in connection with the violence during the protests in 2019 but adds Gogoi will remain on bail during the pendency of the case. Akhil Gogoi, Raijor Dal president and MLA from Sibsagar, Assam, was released by the NIA court in connection with a case related to anti-Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) protests. (PTI)

A bench of Justices V Ramasubramanian and Pankaj Mithal upheld a Gauhati High Court order which had set aside Gogoi's discharge in the case.

On March 20, the apex court had reserved its verdict on the appeal by the Assamese peasant leader against the high court order. The bench had in February sought the response of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in the matter, Bar and Bench reported.

The issued notice pertained only to the question of whether Gogoi could be granted bail until the conclusion of his trial. During the proceedings, senior advocate Huzefa Ahmadi argued on behalf of Gogoi that there were no allegations of him abusing his liberties while out on bail following the discharge order.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the NIA, countered by stating that the CPI (Maoist), which Gogoi is accused of sending cadre for warfare training, is not a political party. Additionally, Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, with the assistance of advocate Kanu Agrawal, emphasised that the charges under the UAPA were not related to peaceful bandhs or shutdowns but were instead for the more serious offences of using terrorist methods and waging war against an elected government.

Gogoi and three others were charged with various offences in connection with the December 2019 protests and speeches against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) as well as alleged ties to Maoist groups. These charges included provisions of the UAPA and Sedition (section 124A), promoting enmity between religious groups (section 153A), and 153B (Statement against national integration) under the Indian Penal Code.

In July 2021, the special NIA court in Guwahati discharged Gogoi of all charges against him, stating that his speeches did not incite violence and instead urged people not to resort to violence.

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New Delhi: Sea surface temperatures (SSTs) around the world are at their highest levels in recorded history this April. And extremely high SSTs over the Indian Ocean, particularly south Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal currently, are contributing to record SSTs globally. Forecasts from Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) also show that the south Bay of Bengal and south Arabian Sea are expected to temperatures of a record 30-plus degrees C SST this week. (AP)

On April 5, the global average SST was 21.1 degree C , a new record according to data released by Climate Change Institute at University of Maine. It hasnt cooled much since. On April 16 , it was 21 degree C, the same as the previous record set in March 2016.

The Universitys Climate Reanalyzer which uses data from USs National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) shows SSTs over the tropics are high with the Indian Ocean region recording temperatures that are 29 to 31 degree C on April 16 (Sunday) nearing the top of the temperature spectrum on NOAAs chart. The SSTs over the Indian Ocean are above normal by 1 to 2 degrees C according to climate scientists. If the SSTs remain exceptionally high, they can impact the monsoon in different ways, either by delaying onset or contributing to extreme rain events, they said.

Forecasts from Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) also show that the south Bay of Bengal and south Arabian Sea are expected to temperatures of a record 30-plus degrees C SST this week. There are also patches of strong marine heat waves over south Arabian Sea along Kerala and Karnataka and over Bay of Bengal along Bangladesh and West Bengal according to the Marine Heat Wave Tracker created by the Marine Heatwaves International Working Group. While the occurrence of marine heat waves may be a transient phenomenon, SSTs in excess of 30 degrees C are worrying, scientists said.

SSTs over 30 degrees C are very high. You need around 27 degrees C to trigger convection over the ocean. Such warm temperatures definitely impacts marine life . This needs to be studied. The impact of high SSTs on themonsoon can be both positive and negative. For example, warm SSTs can contribute to development of low-pressure systems and genesis of depressions during monsoon. These systems bring rain. But very high ocean temperatures can also reduce the temperature gradient between land and ocean which is critical for onset of monsoon and rainfall activities. Onset can be delayed or slowed when this gradient reduces  explained M Rajeevan, climate scientist and former secretary, ministry of earth sciences.

While ocean temperatures are shooting up mainly due to a rise in global average temperatures or climate change, the immediate cause is very high solar radiation combined with certain ocean dynamics, Rajeevan said. The dynamics are similar for land and ocean but a little more complicated for ocean. High solar radiation warms land faster than the ocean. The Arabian Sea normally starts cooling off after the monsoon sets in.

Whenever there is an El Nino developing in the Pacific, that changes the winds and atmospheric circulation over the Indian Ocean, heating it up. Currently, we see that the Indian Ocean has started responding, with high sea surface temperatures across the basin. This is aggravated by the ocean warming trends in response to climate change, said Roxy Mathew Koll, climate scientist working at the Centre for Climate Change Research at the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM).

El Nino is a phenomenon of warmer than expected ocean temperatures in the eastern equatorial Pacific, and has a correlation with a poor monsoon in India.

Parts of the Arabian Sea, northern and southern Bay of Bengal, and the central equatorial Indian Ocean are exceptionally warm, with surface temperature anomalies over 1-2 degrees Celsius. Theres a marine heatwave warning in these regions, from NOAA. Marine heatwaves are exceptionally warm temperatures in the ocean that can lead to coral bleaching and fish mortality. As per global agencies and IMD, the El Nino conditions in the Pacific and the warming in the Indian Ocean is forecasted to continue into May-June. If the influence is strong, this may have a weakening effect on the monsoon winds and rainfall. At the same time, warm ocean temperatures in the Arabian Sea may result in extreme rains too. This is an ongoing trend in monsoon conditions as per our research, and we need a long-term policy to address the risks and water security issues that arise due to these impacts, Koll added.

The global ocean has warmed continuously since 1970 and has taken up more than 90% of the excess heat in the climate system, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change said in its Special Report on the Ocean and Cryosphere released in 2019. Since 1993, the rate of ocean warming has more than doubled and marine heatwaves have very likely doubled too in frequency since 1982 and are increasing in intensity. By absorbing more CO2, the ocean has undergone increasing surface acidification and loss of oxygen has occurred from the surface to 1000 m.
Congress leader Siddaramaiah on Tuesday urged the Centre to immediately intervene and ensure safe return of 31 tribals reportedly stranded in Sudan amid the violent clashes. In a series of tweets, Siddaramaiah said that 31 people from Karnataka belonging to Hakki Pikki tribe are stranded in Sudan. Congress leader Siddaramaiah (PTI)

I urge PMO India, HMO India, MEA India and BS Bommai to immediately intervene & ensure their safe return, Siddaramaiah wrote.

In another tweet, he said, Hakki Pikkis in Sudan are left stranded without food since the last few days & the govt is yet to initiate action to bring them back. @BJP4India govt should immediately open diplomatic discussions & reach out to international agencies to ensure the well-being of Hakki Pikkis.

The Congress leader also expressed condolences over the demise of the Indian national and all those who have been killed in the ongoing civil war in Sudan. My deepest condolences to their families and pray for the peace in the region, he wrote.

Earlier in the day, Congress national spokesperson and the party's in-charge for the upcoming Karnataka Assembly polls Randeep Surjewala claimed that the BJP government at the Centre has made no effort to rescue the tribals.

31 Kannadigas of Hakki Pikki Tribe have been left stranded in the civil war in Sudan. The Anti-Kannadiga Modi Govt has left them to their fate, instead of evacuating & ensuring their safe return. Where are Mr. Prahlad Joshi & Shobha Karandje & BJP M.Ps? SHAME ON U MR. BOMMAI!, he wrote on Twitter.

Meanwhile, there has been no official statement yet by the Ministry of External Affairs on the Congress leader's claim.

Sudan clashes

Violence continued for a fourth straight day in Sudan as the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), and the countrys powerful government paramilitary force, Rapid Support Forces (RSF) battled in the streets for control of the country. According to the United Nations on Tuesday, the death toll mounted to around 200, with more than 1,800 people being injured.
Senior Congress leader and former CM Siddaramaiah urged PM Modi and the Ministry of External affairs to ensure the safe return of Kannadigas in Sudan, which is affected by army-paramilitary clashes. He claimed that 31 people from Karnatakas Hakki Pikki tribe are stuck in Sudan. Siddaramaiah urges for safety of Kannadigas in Sudan, MP Tejasvi Surya responds

Also Read - Indian national dies by stray bullet injuries in Sudan clashes; EAM Jaishankar expresses grief

Siddaramaiah tweeted, It is reported that 31 people from Karnataka belonging to the Hakki Pikki tribe, are stranded in Sudan which is troubled by civil war. I urge @PMOIndia @narendramodi, @HMOIndia,@MEAIndia and @BSBommai to immediately intervene & ensure their safe return. Hakki Pikkis in Sudan have been left stranded without food since the last few days & the govt is yet to initiate action to bring them back.@BJP4India govt should immediately open diplomatic discussions & reach out to international agencies to ensure the well-being of Hakki Pikkis,

The Congress leader also paid condolences to the family of an Indian who passed away in the Sudan clashes. It is also unfortunate to know that we have lost one Indian & 60 others in the ongoing civil war in Sudan. My deepest condolences to their families and pray for peace in the region, he added. An Indian national identified as Albert Augestine has succumbed to his injuries on Sunday amid army-paramilitary clashes in Sudan, informed the Indian embassy.

Union minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar responded to Siddaramaiah and said that the safety of Kannadigas in Sudan is ensured. He wrote, Our PM @narendramodi ji's govt is steadfast in Leave no Indian behind in thot n in action. Unlike in the past, our government has stepped up whenever Indians abroad are caught up in conflict or another crisis. Afghanistan to Middle East to Ukraine - our government has ensured the safety of citizens and safe passage home and will do so for Kannadigas stranded in Sudan too.

Bengaluru south MP Tejasvi Surya has slammed Siddaramaiah and said that the BJP doesnt need his lessons on rescuing people from other countries. He wrote, Sir, we dont need lessons on rescuing stranded Indians from the Congress. Modi Govt has rescued lakhs of stranded Indians during Vande Bharat Mission, students during Ukraine war, nurses from Yemen and more. All Kannadigas will return safe, wrote Tejasvi Surya.
For the first time since the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu & Kashmir in August 2019, Srinagars Jamia Masjid was opened for Shab-e-Qadar  a night when special prayers are offered during Ramzan  on Tuesday. Shab-e-Qadar prayers were allowed at the Jamia Masjid in Srinagar on Tuesday (ANI)

The development comes days after denial of permission for Juma-tul-Vida (last Friday of Ramzan) prayers at the 14th century mosque triggered protests in the Valley.

Soon after the announcement, thousands of people gathered at the grand mosque in Srinagars Nawhatta to offer the prayers. Shab-e-Qadr prayers were held in the mosque after three years post-August 2019. Our estimate says some 20,000 people participated, said Altaf Ahmad, general secretary of Anjuman Auqaf (managing body of the mosque).

The prayers were offered amid heavy deployment of security forces around the mosque, and the police were conducting searches and taking photographs of two wheelers entering the premises.

It was soul soothing to offer Tarawih prayers at the mosque. Thousands had gathered to offer prayers despite uncertainty whether the government will allow the prayers, said Arif Ahmad, a local resident.

Welcoming the development, Apni Party president, Altaf Bukhari commended the decision. Lifting restrictions on congregational prayers at Jamia Masjid on Shab-e-Qadr is a welcome move. This decision honours the sentiments of the people. I express my gratitude to the administration for the arrangements made at Masjid, he said.
Overruling the Union governments objections against judicial determination of the issue, the Supreme Court on Tuesday commenced its hearing on a bunch of petitions demanding legal recognition for same-sex marriages even as it clarified that the remit of the proceedings will confine to the validation of such unions only under the Special Marriage Act (SMA). Around 50 petitioners have approached the top court asking for legalisation of same-sex marriage (PTI)

While the Centre maintained that it is exclusively for the legislature to grant legal recognition to a social institution and that the court must first seek the views of all states, a Constitution bench headed by Chief Justice of India Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud said that it will adjudge the issue in a restricted arena of granting validation to same-sex marriages by reading down or interpreting relevant provisions of the SMA. The bench also included justices Sanjay Kishan Kaul, S Ravindra Bhat, Hima Kohli and PS Narasimha.

Solicitor general Tushar Mehta insisted that the court consider the Centres objections first but was turned down.

I am sorry Mr Solicitor, we are in charge, the CJI told Mehta, who was appearing for the Centre. You cannot dictate how we will conduct the proceedings. I have never allowed this in my court.

Around 50 petitioners have approached the top court asking for legalisation of same-sex marriage, arguing that denying them the right to wed was unconstitutional and violative of their fundamental rights. If they succeed, India will become only the third country in Asia to allow same-sex unions, a mere five years after the court decriminalised homosexuality.

Through an application filed on Sunday, the Centre urged the court not to interfere with the legislative policy that consciously outlaws same-sex marriages while seeking dismissal of all the petitions on the ground of maintainability. The Centres application follows a detailed counter affidavit filed in March when it said that legal validation of same-sex marital unions will cause complete havoc with the delicate balance of personal laws in the country and in accepted societal values.

But the Constitution bench on Tuesday agreed to examine petitioners submissions that rendering a gender-neutral definition of spouses instead of using man and woman under the SMA is good enough for according legal recognition to same-sex marriages, clarifying it would steer clear of recognition of same-sex marriages under personal laws, and added that an incremental manner of approaching this matter will entail sage wisdom.

We cannot deny the fact that there is undoubtedly a legislative element involved in this matter. We dont have to decide everything to decide something in this case...you can confine yourself to this course and can allow society to evolve, Parliaments perception to evolve because Parliament has also been responding to the evolution of society, the bench told the petitioners, led by senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi.

Senior counsel Abhishek Manu Singhvi, KV Viswanathan, Geeta Luthra and Menaka Guruswamy also appeared for different petitioners in the case.

According to the bench, which included justices Sanjay Kishan Kaul, Ravindra Bhat, Hima Kohli and Ravindra Bhat, incremental changes in issues of societal ramifications are better and that judicial wisdom required the court not to delve into a spectrum of issues emanating from personal laws and customs.

The bench was appreciative of the fact that society has evolved in the last five years after its judgment in the 2018 Navtej Johar Case that decriminalised consensual gay sex between adults.

Between Navtej (2018 judgment) and today, our society has found much greater acceptance of same-sex relationships and this is something very positive. In this evolving consensus, the court is also playing a dialogical role to create that consensus. We have to move towards a more equal future but at the same time, we have to be conscious of our own limitations, it told the petitioners.

The court pointed out that the moment it touched upon any aspect of even a statutory law such as the Hindu Marriage Act, questions will arise why it should not examine similar and other aspects of marriages among Muslims, Christians, Parsis or Sikhs.

While the lawyers for the petitioners accepted the courts suggestion, Mehta resisted the course suggested by the bench. He insisted that the bench ought to first examine Centres preliminary objections as to whether conferment of a social legal status be done by judicial adjudication and that too, without hearing all the states that also have power to make rules on marital laws.

Can by a judicial adjudication process, this court create an institution of marriage? This necessarily will affect personal laws...there is no legal lacuna in this matter, he said.

The bench told Mehta that it had already made it clear that the bench will not go into issues of personal law but will adjudicate the matter in a much-restricted arena of recognition under the SMA.

To this, the SG referred to the 2019 Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, contending that the law guarantees full protection not only to transgender people but all members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex and asexual communities and therefore, there is no element of discrimination.

At the same time, Mehta added that the court should not hear the matter at all since the issue of recognition of a social relationship is within the exclusive jurisdiction of the legislature which has consciously declared that a valid marriage can be entered into only by a biological man and a biological woman.

Unimpressed with SGs proposition, the bench retorted: There is a value judgment you are making. It entails a biological man and a biological woman, and this is wrong. There is no absolute concept of a man or a woman.It cannot only be about what your genitals are. Its far more complex than that. The notion of a man and a woman cannot depend only on what your genitals are.

But Mehta said that the operations of various legislation depend strictly on a persons genitals.  If I have genitals of a man but otherwise, I am a woman, as being suggested, how will I be treated under CrPC? As a woman? Can I be called for a statement like a man? There are several issues. I will show several acts which your lordships would unintentionally make non-workable, he said.

As Mehta lamented that the present hearing would open windows for similar litigation in future on personal laws, the bench said that it cannot bind future generations or legislature from deciding their course of action. Windows have already opened, and the question now is whether there is enough breeze or not...Windows are going to be willingly opened irrespective of what we decide, it responded.

Mehta, in his opposition, was supported by senior advocate Rakesh Dwivedi, who appeared for the Madhya Pradesh government, and argued that the purpose of validating heterogeneous relationships is to perpetuate the human race and culture and that same-sex marriage cannot thus seek parity.

On his part, senior counsel Kapil Sibal, representing Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind, submitted that the court should either decide the whole gamut of issues, including personal laws, or not hear the matter at all since a constricted approach could create many complications in operation of other laws affecting a marriage.

The bench, however, proceeded to hear the matter, adding the petitioners will get time till Thursday to argue. At this point, Mehta asked the bench if the Centres application to decide preliminary objections to the maintainability of the petitions was being formally rejected. The bench, however, did not respond and opted to proceed with the matter.

Commencing the arguments on behalf of a same-sex couple, Rohatgi said that he was amazed at the Centre calling the same-sex marriage an elitist concept whereas for the community, it is a battle for equality, dignity and the right of respectability in society.

Choice of an individual is not an elitist concept. It is innate. People are born with it...We cannot be discriminated against only because we are ten thousand and the others are ten crores. The majoritarian way cannot be the only concept and the State is duty bound to give us the same respect, equality and dignity. This is the core of my submission, he added.

At this point, the bench observed that Rohatgis arguments seem to be that society could not be allowed to say that while it recognises same-sex relationships, such couples must remain deprived of the benefits and rights that conventional social groups have. The senior counsel, appearing with a group of lawyers from law firm Karanjawala & Co, agreed with the court, adding that inequality will continue if there was no corresponding duty cast on the State to grant them equal rights like the heterogeneous couples. This argument cannot be raised that leave it to parliament because your lordships are the protectors of fundamental rights, said the senior counsel.

The bench will continue hearing the case on Wednesday.

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The Supreme Court on Monday refused to permit controversial godman Asaram Bapu to call a senior police officer as an additional witness in a rape case where he is convicted for life, saying that the move was aimed to reopen the entire case and seek re-examination of crucial witnesses including the survivor who was a minor at the time of crime. Asaram Bapu (File Photo)

Setting aside a judgment of the Rajasthan high court permitting the godman to summon senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Ajay Pal Lamba, the top court bench of justices Sanjiv Khanna and MM Sundresh said, The attempt is to reopen the entire case and seek re-examination of these witnesses at the appellate stage.

Noting that the appeal by the godman challenging his conviction in 2018 by a special court under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO) is pending before the Rajasthan high court, the bench ordered the appeal to be expeditiously heard as Asaram had been in custody for nearly a decade.

The court order came on an appeal filed by the Rajasthan government challenging the HC order of February 10, 2022 permitting the godmans application under Section 391 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) to record evidence of Lamba, who was posted as the deputy commissioner of police (West), Jodhpur at the relevant time in August 2013.

The reason for his summoning was a book Lamba wrote later titled Gunning For The Godman: The True Story Behind Asaram Bapus Conviction, where he revealed that while visiting the spot where the survivor alleged rape, he had filmed the entire crime scene on his mobile phone. The godman alleged that this was done a day before police prepared the site plan and he apprehended the possibility of the victim being tutored based on the video recording of the crime scene.

The top court refused to deal with the merits of the evidence as the appeal was still pending consideration before the HC. It noted that the application to summon Lamba was filed 8 years after the date of alleged occurrence in August 2013 and the appeal was not being heard as the godman insisted on Lambas summoning.

The trial in the case had lasted for almost five years till a Jodhpur court in April 2018 convicted Asaram under various offences under the Indian Penal Code (IPC), Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2006 and POCSO Act. He was sentenced to life imprisonment for the remainder of his natural life.

Lambas book noted that the filing of FIR was done after considerable delay as crucial evidence from the spot was lost.

The state had opposed the godmans application by claiming that the book was a dramatised presentation of the events and this was stated as a disclaimer by Lamba in the book. The SC set aside the HC order by finding the reasoning to be based upon mere conjectures without appreciating the scope and object of Section 391 of CrPC

The top court said, If we carefully look at the reasons given, which have found favour in the impugned judgment, we can easily visualise that there could be further applications for recording of additional evidence of the main witnesses, the victim and/or the Investigating Officer, who have already been subjected to lengthy examinations over a prolonged period on eleven occasions.
The Supreme Court on Tuesday told the Union government that it wants to see if there was a valid exercise of power and application of mind in granting remission to 11 men convicted in the Bilkis Bano case, and that not producing the original files behind the controversial decision would amount to contempt. The convicts outside Godhra sub-jail following their release under the states remission policy on August 15 last year. (PTI)

A bench of justices KM Joseph and BV Nagarathna also told the Centre that the crime -- the rape and murder of seven people during the 2002 Gujarat riots -- was horrendous, and that a massacre could not be compared to a single murder.

Why are you fighting shy of showing the files to us? By showing it, you will be better placed. The court is interested to see if there is valid exercise of power. If you say, we will not show you the reasons, then we will be free to draw our own conclusions, the bench remarked.

The real question is whether the government applied its mind and what material formed the basis of its decision to grant remission in the facts and circumstances of the case, the bench said, adding, Today it is this lady (Bilkis) but tomorrow it can be anyone. It may be you or me.

The bench was responding to a submission by additional solicitor general SV Raju, who represented the Centre and the Gujarat government, who said that the government may file a plea seeking a review of the courts March 27 order asking for the original files. Raju said he had to seek instructions by April 24 but as per his current instructions, the Centre and the state may file a review plea. The bench said all the respondents shall file their replies by May 1 and posted the matter for further hearing on May 2.

If you intended to file the review, you should have done it earlier, the judges said. You are in contempt for not producing it. If you do not produce the file and argue from it, in absence of records, how do we decide?

Bilkis Bano had challenged the August 15 decision of the Gujarat government permitting the premature release of the 11 convicts, who were serving a life term, under a 1992 remission policy. The men had been convicted for the rape and murder of 14 people, including seven members of her family, in 2002. The state government said its decision relied on a Supreme Court decision last year that allowed it to consider the remission plea of one of the convicts as per the policy existing during the date of conviction. The state now has a more stringent remission policy, which came into effect on 2014, but it wasnt in effect when the convicts were sentenced on January 21, 2008. The decision to remit the sentences kicked up a political storm, with Opposition parties saying the government had violated rules to release the 11 men.

In its hearing on Tuesday, the court, too, remarked on the gruesome nature of the crime and the lengthy paroles granted to some of the convicts.

Here a pregnant woman, who was gang-raped and several members of her family were killed. Crimes are generally committed against society and the community. Unequals cannot be treated equally...So when you give remission... You cannot compare the victims plight with standard 302 (murder) cases, the bench said.

Fourteen lives were lost in one go. How do you compare apples and oranges? This was murder of 14 innocent persons and a case in which trial had to be shifted outside state (to Mumbai). How can it be compared with any rape and murder case? There are larger considerations for granting remission. What is the message you are sending?

The state government has claimed privilege, a rule of evidence that allows the holder of the privilege to refuse to disclose information. The bench referred to a 2006 decision in the Epuru Sudhakar case, where the contours of granting pardon by the state governor under Article 161 of the Constitution was laid down by the top court. Citing the findings in that judgment, the bench remarked: When the state releases a man, the order of remission brings the curtains down on the life of a person in prison. You cannot run away from showing us that your exercise of power is for public good, particularly in a matter of this nature as any crime is said to be committed against society.

Appearing for some convicts, senior advocate Sidharth Luthra pointed out that while the crime may be gruesome, one cannot lose sight of the fact that the convicts suffered punishment by remaining in jail for long periods extending up to 15 years.

But the court was not impressed.

The way the crime was committed was horrendous, and they get over 1,100 days parole, virtually over three years, the bench remarked. Will an ordinary prisoner get this?

The victim represented by advocate Shobha Gupta, and other petitioners led by senior advocates Kapil Sibal and Abhishek Manu Singhvi, among others, said that while in custody, the accused enjoyed parole extending to 1,100 to 1,500 days, making their actual sentence undergone to be much lower.

The court also touched upon another aspect of the debate -- whether the state was right in granting remission under its 1992 policy, when the policy was changed in 2014 to bar gang rape convicts from eligibility. There must be cumulative consideration of facts. Having put a policy in place under Section 432 of Code of Criminal Procedure (under which the 11 convicts were granted remission by Gujarat), the policy at the higher pedestal should prevail, the bench observed.
The Supreme Court on Tuesday agreed to take up on April 24 a plea seeking an independent probe into the killings of gangster-turned-politician Atiq Ahmad and his brother Ashraf while police were taking them for a routine medical examination in Uttar Pradeshs Prayagraj on Saturday. Gangster-turned-politician Atiq Ahmad. (HT PHOTO)

Assailants Lavlesh Tiwari, 22, Mohit, 23, and Arun Kumar Maurya, 18, sprayed the two with bullets on the premises of a hospital as Ahmad and Ashraf were talking to the media. Policemen ring-fenced them when gunshots rang out. The murders were captured live on video.

On March 28, the court dismissed Ahmads plea for protection and observed that the state machinery would take care of his protection in case of a threat to his life. Ahmad approached the court last month over threats to his life.

A Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud-led bench on Tuesday took note of advocate Vishal Tiwaris submissions after the plea was mentioned seeking an urgent hearing. The plea has also sought an inquiry into the 183 encounters in Uttar Pradesh since 2017.

The Uttar Pradesh Police on April 13 killed Atiq Ahmads son, Asad, and one of his associates in Jhansi. They said they have gunned down 183 alleged criminals in encounters since 2017.

In his plea, Tiwari cited a severe threat to democracy and rule of law and said in a democratic society, police cannot be allowed to become a mode of delivering final justice or to become a punishing authority. It underlined the power of punishment is only vested in the judiciary.

The plea said extrajudicial killings or fake police encounters have no place in the law. When the police turn daredevils then the entire rule of law collapses and generates fear in the mind of people against the police which is very dangerous for democracy and this also results in more crimes, the plea said.

The Uttar Pradesh government on Sunday constituted a three-member judicial commission to probe the killings of Ahmad and Ashraf.

A first information report (FIR) registered in the matter said the three assailants confessed that they killed Atiq Ahmad and Ashraf to wipe out their gang and make a name for themselves. The three were booked for murder, attempt to commit murder, using prohibited arms, carrying prohibited arms, and using arms without licence.

The murders raised questions about how the assailants breached the police cordon in such a high-profile case or why dozens of policemen could not stop the three assailants.

The three carried video cameras, mikes, and media identity cards to pose as journalists and were later overpowered. They used made-in-Turkey pistols for the killings.
The Telangana high court on Tuesday asked the Central Bureau of Investigation not to arrest YSR Congress party MP from Kadapa YS Avinash Reddy till April 25 but said the agency could question him in connection with the murder of his uncle and former MP YS Vivekananda Reddy in March 2019, people familiar with the matter said. Telangana HC asks CBI not to arrest YS Avinash Reddy till April 25. (PTI)

A single-judge bench of the high court headed by Justice Surender Reddy gave an interim judgement to this effect in the afternoon, while hearing the anticipatory bail petition of Avinash Reddy, cousin of Andhra Pradesh chief minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy.

The judge asked the Kadapa MP to appear before the investigating officers of the CBI regularly till April 25 and cooperate with them. He also asked the CBI to record the entire process of interrogation of Avinash Reddy and submit in writing all the questions to be posed to him during the interrogation.

The judge posted the case to April 25 for further hearing on his anticipatory bail petition.

The CBI told the court that it would question the MP from along with his father YS Bhaskar Reddy who was arrested on Sunday and his close aide Gajjala Uday Kumar Reddy, who was arrested last week in the same case.

Earlier in the day, a criminal court at Nampally in Hyderabad granted a six-day custody of both Bhaskar Reddy and Uday Kumar Reddy for further questioning in connection with the Vivekananda Reddy murder case.

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Temporary arrangements for wuzu (ritual ablutions) during Ramzan will be made in the Gyanvapi Masjid complex in Varanasi and a water tank will be set up on the premises, the district administration and mosque management committee decided on Tuesday, after a Supreme Court mandated meeting to work out a solution on Ramzan prayers. HT Image

Part of the Gyanvapi premises were sealed on orders of a Varanasi court in May last year after Hindu petitioners claimed that they found a shivling during a controversial survey of the premises. The Muslim side says the structure is a ritual ablution fountain. The survey was ordered by a local court on the plea of five Hindu women who want daily worshipping rights in the complex.

On Tuesday, Varanasi district magistrate S Rajalingam held a meeting with the Gyanvapi mosque management committee and other stakeholders, a day after the top court directed authorities to convene a meeting and work out a congenial arrangement on the committees plea to arrange for wuzu during Ramzan prayers in the premises. In view of the directive of the honourable Supreme Court, we held a meeting with office bearers of the Gyanvapi mosque management committee. In the meeting, a consensus was reached for making temporary arrangement for wuzu in the mosque premises as per their requirement, Rajalingam said. The members were satisfied with the meeting.

Four members of the mosque committee, including Mufti-E-Banaras Maulana Abdul Batin Nomani and joint secretary of the committee SM Yasin, said the administration accepted their demand for a temporary toilet and wuzu during Ramzan prayers.

The district magistrate accepted our demand and assured us that the temporary arrangements for wuzu will be ready in the next few hours, said Yasin, adding that a water tank would be set up in the mosque complex as part of temporary arrangements. The Islamic holy month of Ramzan is scheduled to end this weekend.

On Monday, a Supreme Court bench led by Chief Justice of India Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud said the Varanasi district collector should convene a meeting with representatives of the mosque management committee and other stakeholders on Tuesday. The bench said the matter will be taken up again on Friday when appropriate directions on arrangements for wuzu will be passed.
The son of senior Trinamool Congress leader Mukul Roy has claimed his father has gone missing and is untraceable since late Monday evening. "Till now, I am unable to contact my father. He is untraceable," Subhargshu Roy, who is also a TMC leader, told news agency PTI. Mukul Roy returned to the TMC in June 2021.

Mukul Roy was scheduled to fly to Delhi Monday evening, the news agency quoted his close aides as saying. "As of now, we know that he was scheduled to land at Delhi Airport at around 9pm. But he is not traceable," a close aide said.

Subhargshu said Mukul left for Delhi on Monday evening on an Indigo Airlines flight (GE-898), India Today reported, adding that the flight was supposed to land at 9.55pm in Delhi on Monday. However, the leader could not be traced.

Flight ticket of Mukul Roy for New Delhi.

The former railway minister reportedly disappeared following an argument with his son on Sunday. Mukul Roy has been struggling with health issues since his wife's passing and was admitted to the hospital in February.

Although Subhargshu Roy stated that the family had filed a complaint with airport police authorities, police sources indicated that no official report had been received yet, India Today added.

Roy, a former number two in the TMC, had joined the Bharatiya Janata Party or BJP in 2017 following differences with the party leadership. He was made BJP national vice-president.

Roy won the 2021 assembly election on a BJP ticket and later returned to the TMC after the results were announced.

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Days after the killing of gangster-politician Atiq Ahmad and his brother Ashraf, Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday warned that now mafias cannot threaten anyone in the state. He added, Those who were a threat to UP earliernow UP is a threat to them. Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath. (HT file photo)

Before 2017, the law and order in the state was not good, but after that, there is a rule of law in the state. From 2017 to 2023, there have been no riots in Uttar Pradesh; there was no need for a curfew, Yogi Aditynath said while speaking at a function.

Watch: Yogi Adityanath's first reaction after Atiq Ahmed's murder; 'Mafia Won't Threaten Anymore'

Yogi's comments come even as Atiq's son Asad was killed in a police encounter in UP's Jhansi last week.

Meanwhile, a letter written by Atiq Ahmad - who was shot dead on Saturday night in Prayagraj - is on its way to Chief Justice DY Chandrachud and UP chief minister Yogi Adityanath, the gangster's lawyer said on Tuesday. While the content of the letter is unknown, it is written to the UP CM and CJI.

That letter in a sealed envelope is neither with me nor sent by me. It is kept somewhere else and is being sent by some other person. I don't know the contents of the letter. Atiq Ahmad had said that if there were any mishap, or if he was murdered, the letter in the sealed envelope should be sent to the Chief Justice of India and Uttar Pradesh chief minister, Vijay Mishra, the lawyer, said.

The Ahmad brothers - Atiq and Ashraf - were killed at nearly point-blank range on live TV while being taken for a routine medical check-up at around 10 pm. The three shooters - identified as Sunny Singh, Lavlesh Tiwari, and Arun Maurya - posed as journalists and fired multiple times, while being surrounded by police.
As Muslims across the globe prepare for the Islamic holy month of Ramadan to end, they are also gearing us to mark the festival of Eid-Ul-Fitr. Also known as Meethi Eid or Eid al-Fitr, the festival marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, during which Muslims hold Roza (fast) from dawn to dusk for a month and engage in acts of worship and spiritual reflection. Eid-Ul-Fitr is a joyous occasion and one of the most significant festivals in the Islamic religion. On this day, Muslims end their Roza, thank Allah for offering them health and resistance during Ramadan, wear new clothes, prepare special delicacies, do charity, and get together with their loved ones. The festival is usually celebrated on the first day of Shawwal, the tenth month of the Islamic calendar, after the sighting of the new moon. Keep scrolling to read about the festival's date, history, significance and celebrations. Know all about Eid-Ul-Fitr history, date, significance, and celebrations inside. (HT Photo)

Eid-Ul-Fitr 2023 Date:

Eid-Ul-Fitr falls in the Shawwal month of the Islamic calendar, which has around 29 or 30 days in a month. Since the beginning of any lunar Hijri month varies according to the new moon sighting by religious authorities, Eid-Ul-Fitr falls on different days across regions. This year, Eid-Ul-Fitr is expected to be celebrated from April 21 Friday, to April 23, Sunday. The actual date may vary as per the moon sighting.

Eid-ul-Fitr is celebrated in Kerala a day before the rest of the country because the moon sighting adheres to the traditional Islamic calendar and waits for the actual sighting of the moon. Kerala is the only Indian state whose Eid-ul-Fitr date is decided by the sighting of the moon in Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, Eid-Ul-Fitr in Kashmir is determined by the state's grand mufti, who declares the beginning of the festival based on moon sighting timings.

Eid-Ul-Fitr 2023 History and Significance:

It is believed that the Holy Quran was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad during the month of Ramadan. Muslims consider this month auspicious and hold fast from dawn to dusk, dedicate themselves to praying to Allah, and refrain from negative thoughts. Eid-ul-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan. They break the Roza with a delicious meal and get together with friends and family.

Eid-Ul-Fitr 2023 Celebrations:

Muslims across the globe celebrate Eid-Ul-Fitr with prayers followed by a sermon soon after dawn. People wear new clothes, give Zakat or alms to the poor, distribute sweets, and eat a variety of dishes, including Biryani, Haleem, Nihari, kebabs and Seviyan. Additionally, children receive gifts and money from elders, called Eidi.
Thailand welcome the return of its New Year or Songkran festivities after an enforced break of three years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Songkran is mostly celebrated from April 13 to April 15, but in some parts of Thailand, like in Chiang Mai, the celebrations last longer. Thais enjoy the festivities by visiting temples, cleaning Buddha statues, and engaging in public water fights, which is seen as a cleansing ritual. (Also read: Thailand hopes for major splash in tourism during Songkran) Water fights are commonplace during the festivities (Tommy Walker)

'Huge outpouring of national relief'

Gary Bowerman, a travel analyst based in Kuala Lumpur, said it was a "national relief" for Thailand that Songkran was back.

"Just as before the pandemic, it was a rare opportunity to bring local people, tourists, police, and public workers, together to celebrate and interact together on the streets," he told DW.

"Songkran this year was like a huge outpouring of national relief after three years when the festival was ruined by COVID-19. It came at a time when tourism in the country is starting to recover and reinforced the image of Thailand regaining its pre-pandemic vitality. Songkran festivities are famous with travelers around the world, and the images of good-natured water fights and dousing highlight a side of Thai life that was noticeably missing for three years," he added.

Tourism vital to Thailand's economy

Thailand's economy relies heavily on tourism, but amid the pandemic-fueled global economic downturn, the kingdom saw a 6% decline in 2020.

The economy had been predicted to jump by 3.4% in 2022, which would have been a return to pre-pandemic levels, the World Bank reported. Instead, it only grew by 2.8%, according to Thailand's National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC).

For 2023, new forecasts put the growth at between 2.7% and 3.7% as 30 million tourists are set to arrive.

Water synonymous with Songkran are an escalation of tradition

This year, thousands of overseas visitors were back in Thailand enjoying the Songkran celebrations, happily mixing with locals in the capital of Bangkok. People flocked to the streets and popular tourist areas to celebrate the festival, wearing colorful, flowery shirts, and armed with toy water guns, drenching each other from dusk til dawn.

Tuk-tuk vehicles were crammed with people transporting them throughout the city, while the bars and restaurants that remained open were thriving. No one was safe from keeping dry near the popular Sukhumvit Soi 11 area as revelers used water hoses and buckets of ice-cold water to splash anyone passing by. But it was the popular backpacker area of Khao San Road that was the most pulsating, with thousands crammed in to enjoy the public water fight.

For businesses within Thailand's tourism industry, owners and employees have welcomed the return of visitors and say Songkran marks Thailand's return to normality.

Chan Holland, owner of travel agent Canary Travel Thailand in Bangkok, says customer bookings have returned.

"Bookings were taken before Songkran because during Songkran transportation were fully booked. I'm glad that people in Thailand have something to look forward to. Whenever the majority of the locals stop wearing masks, I would say Thailand is back to normal," she told DW.

Mrs Marthong, who works as a director at a four-star hotel in Bangkok, says her hotel occupancy is almost full.

"The hotel is busier since many travelers can travel again after the COVID crisis. During Songkran we are fully booked. In my opinion, Thailand is back to normal," she told DW.

COVID-19 spike may occur

Nevertheless, Thailand's Bureau of Epidemiology expects COVID-19 cases to rise after the celebrations. The festival has seen more people traveling for the holidays while fewer people are wearing masks, increasing the risk of people catching the virus. Thailand has seen new omicron variants infect people in the country in recent months.

Yet some locals in Thailand aren't worried.

Siripak Patiyanwipas, 27, from Bangkok, spoke to DW after celebrating Songkran on Khao San Road.

"[It was] so good and so much fun even [on] the first day... seems like crowded and stuck on the street. [Songkran] came back after three years, many people have waited for this festival. I am not worried about COVID-19 because I cannot control this flu."

Pravit Rojanaphruk, a veteran journalist at news outlet Khaosod English told DW that the Songkran celebrations have allowed for people to feel "free" again.

"It means many people, particularly young Thais, but also foreign participants, can enjoy water splashing one another again once a year after three years. Sanitation masks are almost completely gone during Songkran," adding to the sense of freedom, he said.

Protests against the monarchy

Relief also comes after Thailand has seen political and social tension in recent years. Thailand saw regular protests in 2020 and 2021, which sometimes turned violent as demonstrators clashed with police. Activists had called for reform of the Thai monarchy and for a change of leadership in government, which is currently led by Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha.

Thailand's next general election has since been slated for May, with several political parties fighting for votes to usurp Prayut's military-backed government.

Pravit added that the Songkran festival allowed for societal tensions to ease temporarily.

"Spots where people can freely splash water at one another without consequence and laugh at others being made wet is an example of the notion of 'communitas' where for a brief period of time, people are allowed to not observe daily rules and thus they feel the society is less oppressive and tolerable. In reality and politically speaking."

The backdrop of repression remains, cautions Pravit, and the brief sense of relief is but a moment, as he says, "Thai society is still rather repressive."

Edited by: John Silk
Prothom Alo , an independent Bangladeshi daily, is an enemy of the Awami League, democracy, and the people of Bangladesh, thundered Bangladesh Prime Minister (PM) Sheikh Hasina in Parliament last week. She then criticised the United States (US) for trying to eliminate democracy and introduce a government that will not have a democratic existence. Far from signalling strength, Hasinas polemics underline how beleaguered the Awami League (AL) is. From targeting her political rival, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), to selectively co-opting Islamists, Hasina is now going after dailies and countries seeking accountability. PREMIUM Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.(ANI)

With elections due in eight months, it is unsurprising that Hasina wants Prothom Alo, the largest read newspaper in Bangladesh, to fall in line. But her tactics may be backfiring. This is visible in the governments inability to indefinitely detain the newspapers correspondent Samsuzamman Shams who reported on a recent food price hike. Pushback from international institutions and the media appeared strong enough for Hasina to change her mind. Prima facie, such pushback indicates that Bangladeshi civil society is beginning to assert itself.

But closer scrutiny offers pause. Polities undergirded by dynasties, lack of accountability, privileging macro-economic stability over equitable distribution of wealth, a politicised security establishment, and a turbulent history of interventionism, famine, coups, and countercoups dont become democratic even if multiple mutinies like Samsuzammans release make it seem so. That Hasina exhausted her goodwill over a string of electoral controversies and is now caught in a geopolitical contest between China, the US, and India is understood. But what is less understood is how her arch-rival, the BNPs Tarique Rahman (not his ailing mother and former PM Khaleda Zia), is at the heart of this contest. Tortured and exiled in London since 2008, Tarique faces several charges, including corruption and terrorism. And still, he seems to be a threat to Hasina.

The BNPs recent protests buried the twin myths that the party has lost its base and that Rahman is ineffective. The BNPs worker base and leadership bench are intact, and Rahman has a cult following among the hardened BNP cadre. This ensures that despite his centralising tendencies, BNP factions have rallied behind Rahman. But this is where risks kick in because Rahman in Opposition could be different from  if ever  Rahman in power. There are two dilemmas here.

The first is urgent, domestically oriented, and loaded with risk for all Bangladeshis. The BNP, and other Opposition parties, are clear that theyll not participate in elections under Hasinas tutelage. Disillusioned by past allegations of electoral malpractices, the Opposition says it has zero trust in Hasina delivering an honest election. But if Hasina refuses to entertain an interim caretaker set-up, thisll lead to a standoff and the ball will be in the Oppositions court. Will the BNPs protests, peaceful till now, then turn violent in informal coordination with the Jamaat-e-Islami? Though none of the stakeholders desires such an outcome, an outbreak of violence in the coming months cannot be discounted. Itll test Hasinas ability as PM and Rahmans as prime opposer to assert control over the street and establish calm. But the risk with such fires is that theyre easier to light and tough to extinguish. Large-scale violence will, almost certainly, destabilise one of Indias last neighbours not currently roiled by a crisis. Whether thatll lead to a repeat of 2007, wherein the military stepped in (unlikely but not impossible), is hard to say.

But if there is indeed a fair and free election and the BNP wins, then the second dilemma emerges. With its fortunes tied to the West, how will Rahman engage with India? The oddity is that despite being aligned in the Indo-Pacific, India and the US diverge on Bangladesh. Both expect Dhaka to limit the Chinese footprint. But as Hasinas tenure demonstrates, this is easier sought than done. Bangladeshs precarious economic situation means that Rahman in power might struggle to deliver on these expectations. But even if he succeeds, he has other struggles.

India prefers Hasina not because of emotional reasons but because New Delhi enjoys leverage over her. India has little leverage over Rahman in Opposition, and, thereby, limited confidence in his rise. This will be a problem for Rahman in power because, as history shows, a governments longevity in Dhaka is inversely proportional to anti-Indianism. Western powers might help Rahmans rise to power but cant promise sustenance.

From guaranteeing protection to Hindus, sidelining Pakistan-linked Islamists, denying sanctuary to Northeast rebels, and limiting the Chinese footprint, the list of Indias asks is specific. The BNPs record on most, if not all, of these aspects, is complicated. Itll be an uphill task, if not an impossibility, for Rahman to convince New Delhi that hes serious about respecting Indias interests without limiting Dhakas autonomy.

Hasinas outburst against Prothom Alo and the US, then, is a serious problem. This is not because the US is hypocritically using the human rights and democracy cards to pile pressure on a lesser power or because India risks losing an ally in Dhaka. A peaceful transition of power is in everyones interest, barring perhaps Beijing. China has made good of instability in Myanmar and might see instability in Bangladesh as an effective method to keep the US away and India off balance. The best, and perhaps the only way to prevent this is to support a serious, urgent dialogue between Hasina and her opponents.

Avinash Paliwal teaches at SOAS University of London and is the author of My Enemys Enemy: India in Afghanistan from the Soviet Invasion to the US Withdrawal (New York: Oxford University Press, 2017)

The views expressed are personal
On Tuesday, the Supreme Court of India began hearing a clutch of petitions seeking marriage equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and intersex (LGBTQI) persons. The petitions have challenged several laws, including the Special Marriage Act, the Hindu Marriage Act, and the Foreign Marriage Act, stating entitlements, which are otherwise available to heterosexual married couples, are denied to them. PREMIUM Members and allies of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT) community take part in Delhi's 12th Queer Pride, 2019. (Amal KS/HT PHOTO)

The Centre, however, has objected to the petitions on the contention that personal laws govern marriages, and it is a matter for Parliament to consider.

According to the Human Rights Conference, 34 countries recognise marriage equality  of them, 23 have legalised marriages through legislation, while 10 legalised marriages through court decisions.

In 1993, Norway passed a law permitting civil unions among same-sex partners, followed by Sweden in 1995, making them the first two countries to recognise marriage equality.

Based on information from the Pew Research Centre, heres a quick look at some countries.

Netherlands and Belgium legalised marriage in December 2000, and 2003, respectively, and Slovenia was the latest to sanction it on October 4, 2022.

In May 2020, Costa Rica became the first Central American country to legalise same-sex marriage. The countrys highest court in 2018 ruled that the nations law banning same-sex marriage was unconstitutional and said the ban would be nullified in 18 months, unless the legislature acted before then, which it did not.

In October 2019, same-sex marriage became legal in Northern Ireland. It was the last constituent of the United Kingdom where same-sex marriage was banned; England and Wales moved to allow gay and lesbian couples to wed in 2013, and Scotland followed in 2014. Catholic-majority Ireland legalised same-sex marriage through a popular referendum in 2015.

On June 12, 2019, Ecuadors Constitutional Court ruled that same-sex couples have a right to marry.

On May 17, 2019, Taiwans legislature passed a law legalising same-sex marriage, making the island nation the first country in Asia to permit gays and lesbians to wed.

In 2017, the Constitutional Court struck down a law defining marriage as between a man and a woman.

On January 1, 2019, Austria legalised same-sex marriage. The country granted gay and lesbian couples the right to enter a civil partnership in 2010. But in 2017, Austrias highest court ruled that these partnerships are inherently discriminatory and ruled that unless a law to the contrary were passed, marriage equality would prevail from January 1, 2019.

On December 7, 2017, the Australian Parliament passed legislation allowing gay and lesbian couples to legally wed three weeks after Australians voted in favour of legalising same-sex marriage in a nationwide referendum. New Zealand passed a law legalising it three years ago.

Maltas Parliament voted to legalise same-sex marriage in July 2017, despite opposition from the Catholic Church in the small Mediterranean island.

On June 30, 2017, Germany became the 15th European country to enact legislation allowing same-sex couples to wed.

On April 28, 2016, Colombia became the fourth country in Catholic-majority South America to legalise same-sex marriage, following Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil.

In 2015, the United States Supreme Court ruled in the Obergefell versus Hodge case that the Constitution-guaranteed protection for same-sex marriage in all the countrys states. This overturned a bill signed in 1996 by then-president Bill Clinton called the federal Defense of Marriage Act, which upheld states right to ban same-sex marriage and prohibited the federal government from recognising same-sex marriage.

Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, passed a law in May 2015, to legalise same-sex marriage. In 2017, Finland became the last of the five Nordic countries to legalise same-sex marriage, joining Denmark, Iceland, Norway and Sweden. In 2008 and 2009, Norway and Sweden respectively allowed gay and lesbian couples to marry in both religious and civil ceremonies.

On June 18, Luxembourgs Parliament, the chamber of deputies, approved legislation to allow gay and lesbian couples to wed and adopt children. The bill, which took effect in early 2015, was championed by the countrys prime minister, Xavier Bettel, who is openly gay.

On July 17, 2013, the late Queen Elizabeth II gave her royal assent to a bill legalising same-sex marriage in England and Wales. The day before, after months of debate, the measure had won final passage in the British Parliament. In addition, the Scottish Parliament passed a bill to legalise same-sex marriage in February 2014. However, the law prohibits same-sex weddings within the Church of England, which continues to define marriage as between one man and one woman.

On May 14, 2013, Brazils National Council of Justice ruled that same-sex couples should not be denied marriage licences, allowing same-sex marriages to begin nationwide. Previously, about half of Brazils 27 jurisdictions had allowed same-sex marriage.

On May 18, 2013, French President Francois Hollande signed a measure legalising same-sex marriage into law. The conservative Opposition party, the UMP, had challenged the law, and their petition was struck down. However, it was passed into law the following day.

On April 10, 2013, the lower house of Uruguays Congress passed legislation legalising same-sex marriage. Civil unions have been permitted in Uruguay since 2008, and gay and lesbian couples were given adoption rights in 2009. In July 2010, Argentina became the first country in Latin America to legalise same-sex marriage, despite vigorous opposition from the Catholic Church and evangelical Protestant churches. In June 2010, Portugals Parliament also passed the measure legalising same-sex marriage.

The South African Parliament legalised same-sex marriage in November 2006, one year after the countrys highest court ruled that the previous marriage laws violated the South African Constitutions guarantee of equal rights. The new law allows religious institutions and civil officers to refuse to conduct same-sex marriage ceremonies, a provision critics claim violates same-sex couples rights under the Constitution.

Spain legalised same-sex marriage in 2005, guaranteeing identical rights to all married couples regardless of sexual orientation.

Same-sex couples in Canada gained most of the legal benefits of marriage in 1999 as gay and lesbian couples were allowed to undergo common-law marriages. In 2005, the Canadian Parliament passed legislation making same-sex marriage legal nationwide.
Billionaire Elon Musk said on Monday he will launch an artificial intelligence (AI) platform that he calls "TruthGPT" to challenge the offerings from Microsoft and Google. Elon Musk responds after Twitter mistakenly labelled BBC as 'government-funded media'.(REUTERS)

He criticised Microsoft-backed OpenAI, the firm behind chatbot sensation ChatGPT, of "training the AI to lie" and said OpenAI has now become a "closed source", "for-profit" organisation "closely allied with Microsoft".

He also accused Larry Page, co-founder of Google, of not taking AI safety seriously.

"I'm going to start something which I call 'TruthGPT', or a maximum truth-seeking AI that tries to understand the nature of the universe," Musk said in an interview with Fox News Channel's Tucker Carlson to be aired later on Monday.

"And I think this might be the best path to safety, in the sense that an AI that cares about understanding the universe, it is unlikely to annihilate humans because we are an interesting part of the universe," he said.

Musk, OpenAI and Page did not immediately respond to Reuters' requests for comment.

Musk has been poaching AI researchers from Alphabet Inc's Google to launch a startup to rival OpenAI, people familiar with the matter told Reuters.

Musk last month registered a firm named X.AI Corp, incorporated in Nevada, according to a state filing. The firm listed Musk as the sole director and Jared Birchall, the managing director of Musk's family office, as a secretary.

'CIVILIZATIONAL DESTRUCTION'

The move came even after Musk and a group of artificial intelligence experts and industry executives called for a six-month pause in developing systems more powerful than OpenAI's newly launched GPT-4, citing potential risks to society.

Musk also reiterated his warnings about AI during the interview with Carlson, saying "AI is more dangerous than, say, mismanaged aircraft design or production maintenance or bad car production" according to the excerpts.

"It has the potential of civilizational destruction," he said.

He said, for example, that a super intelligent AI can write incredibly well and potentially manipulate public opinions.

He tweeted over the weekend that he had met with former U.S. President Barack Obama when he was president and told him that Washington needed to "encourage AI regulation".

Musk co-founded OpenAI in 2015, but he stepped down from the company's board in 2018. In 2019, he tweeted that he left OpenAI because he had to focus on Tesla and SpaceX.

Also read: Twitter boss Elon Musk forms new artificial intelligence company

He also tweeted at that time that other reasons for his departure from OpenAI were, "Tesla was competing for some of the same people as OpenAI & I didnt agree with some of what OpenAI team wanted to do."

Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has also become CEO of Twitter, a social media platform he bought for $44 billion last year.

In the interview with Fox News, Musk said he recently valued Twitter at "less than half" of the acquisition price.

In January, Microsoft Corp announced a further multi-billion dollar investment in OpenAI, intensifying competition with rival Google and fueling the race to attract AI funding in Silicon Valley.
The green floors of JATCOs Fuji Area 2 factory hum with quiet confidence. Diligent inspectors appraise the gears and pulleys that make up the Japanese auto-parts makers transmission systems. Robots stamp parts and flip them onto production lines. For decades, JATCO, like the rest of Japans vaunted auto industry, has perfected carmaking. Japan has been at the forefront of the industry, pioneering just-in-time manufacturing and leading the development of hybrid cars. But the next big evolutionthe shift to electric vehicles (EVs)has become a source of angst. The EV shift will be a big transformation, theres no denying that, says Sato Tomoyoshi, JATCOs CEO. Our company will have to change drastically. PREMIUM The Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA) has moved the Punjab and Haryana high court, challenging the electric vehicle (EV) policy 2022, introduced by the Chandigarh administration. (Shutterstock)

So far, Japan and its carmakers are lagging in the race towards eVs, the industrys fastest-growing product area. Battery-powered electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) accounted for around 13% of all cars sold globally in 2022, up from 2.6% in 2019. In some markets, including China, the share is some 20%. But in Japan, it was just 2%. The firms pulling ahead in the EV race include newcomers, such as Tesla and Chinas BYD, and established giants like Germanys Volkswagen. Yet Japanese carmakers are not among them. None is in the top 20 for global EV sales, even though Nissan and Mitsubishi released some of the worlds first EVs, more than a decade ago. Toyota, the worlds largest car company, sold just 24,000 EVs out of 10.5m total sales in 2022. (Tesla sold 1.3m.) Sales of Toyotas first fully electric model, an SUV called the bZ4X, had to be paused last summer due to defects that caused the wheels to fall off.

Critics worry that this early stalling on EVs could cause the wheels to fall off the Japanese auto industry as a whole. Some see parallels with semiconductors and consumer electronics, industries where Japanese firms were initially dominant, then missed important trends abroad and ended up losing out to nimbler competitors. A similar decline in the auto industry, which accounts for nearly 20% of Japans exports and some 8% of Japanese jobs, would have massive economic and social implications.

Japanese carmakers are now revving to catch up. Toyota has a new CEO, Sato Koji, who was tapped in part to lead the companys push for electrification. At his first press conference on April 7th, Toyota announced plans to release ten new EV models and boost annual EV sales to 1.5m by 2026. We will thoroughly implement electrification, which we can do immediately, Mr Sato said. Honda has plans to launch 30 EV models by 2030, and formed an EV joint venture with Sony last year; the company pitched a corporate reorganisation taking effect this month as an electrification acceleration. In February, Nissan announced it would release 19 new EV models by 2030; it now calls electrification the core of our strategy.

Japans slow start on EVs stems in part from its earlier successesor as Mr Sato of JATCO puts it, it is a classic case of the innovators dilemma. Industry leaders hesitated to embrace a new technology that might undermine areas where Japan leads, such as standard hybrid vehicles, which combine an internal combustion engine (ICE) and an electric motor powered by batteries that capture energy from regenerative braking (rather than charging with outside electricity, as with PHEVs). Engineers at Japanese firms that fine-tuned complex hybrids were also unimpressed by eVs, which are simpler mechanically. Within the industry, there are still a lot of people attached to the engine, Mr Sato says. Executives worried about the implications of the EV shift on their vast network of suppliers like jATCO, given that EVs require fewer parts and widgets than ICEs. Carmakers assumed eventually switching gears to EVs would be a cinch: The logic was that when the time comes, we can easily shift from hybrids to EVs, says a former executive at a large Japanese car company.

Japan also made an early wrong turn with hydrogen, another emergent auto technology with the potential to be carbon-free. Toyota, Japans biggest and most influential carmaker, bet that hydrogen fuel-cells would become the leading method to electrify cars. Abe Shinzo, Japans prime minister from 2012 to 2020, championed policies to make Japan a hydrogen society; in 2015, Toyota delivered its first hydrogen fuel-cell sedan, the Mirai, to Abe himself. While hydrogen may come to play a big role in decarbonising hard-to-electrify sectors, such as steel production, or fuelling long-haul trucks, it has so far turned out to make little sense as a technology to electrify light consumer vehicles. Even in Japan, which has built a fair amount of hydrogen refuelling infrastructure, Toyota has struggled to peddle the pricey Mirai: the company has sold a total of just 7,500 fuel-cell vehicles in its home market.

While governments in China, Europe and America have increasingly subsidised EVs as part of their climate policies, Japan has done less to incentivise their adoption. The government has called for 100% of vehicles sold by 2035 to be electrified, but that includes hybrid vehicles, in contrast to other governments which have defined the next generation of vehicles more narrowly. Subsidies for fuel-cell vehicles remain much larger than those for EVs. Strict regulation has hampered the expansion of EV charging infrastructure: Japan has roughly one-quarter as many public EV chargers as South Korea, its much smaller neighbour.

Nagging scepticism about EV technology explains some of Japans wariness. Japanese carmakers and officials are still questioning, says Tsuruhara Yoshiro of AutoInsight, an industry journal: Are EVs what consumers want? Does it provide value to them? Is it the best way to reduce CO2? Toyoda Akio, the previous Toyota CEO and grandson of the companys founder, liked to say that carbon is the enemy, not the internal combustion engine. Even under Mr Sato, a protege of Mr Toyoda, the company is sticking to what it calls a multi-pathway strategy that sees EVs as one part of a diverse fleet. We think that the way to get the most carbon-dioxide emissions reductions net overall throughout the world is to tune the solution for each part of the world, says Gill Pratt, Toyotas chief scientist. For example, in developing countries, where renewable energy uptake has generally been slower than in the West, traditional hybrids might offer a more practical and economical way to reduce emissions in the interim.

But some think Japans carmakers are simply moving too late to catch up to the changing times in more developed markets. They are like the Tokugawa shogun-era closed countrythey refused to see what is happening in the world, says Murasawa Yoshihisa, a management consultant. While Japanese cars were once synonymous with fuel efficiency and therefore environmentalism, they risk coming to stand for climate denialism. Japans three biggest carmakersToyota, Honda and Nissanrank lowest among the top ten global auto companies when it comes to decarbonisation efforts, according to a recent study by Greenpeace.

As Toyotas experience with the bZ4X suggests, designing and building top-of-the-line EVs may not be as simple as the Japanese firms assumed. They were so overconfident that once they decide to do it, they will dominate the EV market, Mr Murasawa says. But their offerings have turned out to be old-fashioned. Creating EVs that appeal to consumers requires putting more focus on software, while Japanese firms traditionally prioritise hardware. While they gear up, Japanese companies are already losing loyal customers. Japanese brands that built a legacy in America have been caught flat-footed in the context of 2022, concludes S&P Global Mobility, a research outfit. As the study notes, consumers switching to EVs in 2022 were largely moving away from Toyota and Honda.

 2023, The Economist Newspaper Limited. All rights reserved. From The Economist, published under licence. The original content can be found on www.economist.com
Blood donation is our problem and only we are the solution, says Kiran Verma, who is on a 21,000 km walk to spread awareness about blood donation. The 38-year-old activist from Delhi quit his job to champion this noble cause following an incident that transpired in 2016. The image shows Kiran Verma holding up a placard to raise awareness about blood donation. (Kiran Verma)

He received a distress call from a stranger seeking blood for a low-income family in Chhattisgarh. Verma, who voluntarily donated blood, later learnt that it was sold to the family for a few thousand bucks. Upon meeting the patients wife, I was disheartened to learn that she had paid 1,500 for the blood I donated. Not just this, she had resorted to prostitution to afford her husbands medical expenses. Her plight deeply saddened me. I quit my job that day and decided to work towards the cause of free blood donation, Verma told Hindustan Times.

Verma, a class 10th graduate, received his full and final payment from his job two days after the life-altering incident. He then launched Simply Blood, an android app and a website, to ensure nobody dies waiting for blood, blood should wait to give life.

On June 12, 2017, Verma donated blood to a young patient named Mayank in AIIMS. The boy from UPs Rampur dreamed of pursuing engineering. I clicked a few pictures with him, made a small video and used them to raise awareness about blood donation. Two months later, his father contacted me for the same photographs. When I asked what happened, he informed me that Mayank had passed away due to lack of platelets and that those were his last photographs. This incident left a profound impact on me and motivated me to ensure no one else suffers the same fate as Mayank.

In January 2018, shortly after the birth of his son, Verma set out on a mission to promote blood donation, covering 16,000 km, including over 6,000 km on foot. He, however, couldnt complete his walk and returned home. The final nail in the coffin was when the pandemic hit the country. He received many calls for blood. The deaths due to the scarcity of blood and the guilt of quitting the walk weighed heavily on his heart. Determined to make a difference and driven by his passion for blood donation, Verma embarked on a new journey.

Verma started his 21,000 km walk on World Blood Donor Day in 2021. He has covered an impressive distance so far, including 12 states, 169 districts and two countries - India and Bangladesh. Vermas wife is very supportive of him and his blood donation cause. Verma told HT, On the first day of my walk, my wife told me either do or die, but dont come back until you complete your mission. With this intent, and with the unwavering support of my wife and child, I embarked on this journey.

The blood donation activist has covered over 12,000 kms on foot to date. He opened up about the challenges he has been facing during his journey. From finding accommodation and food to adapting to new environments, everyday is a new challenge. I have slept in 5-star and heritage hotels, and I have slept on platforms also. When I am low on funds, I rely on my wifes credit card or my friends and family who support my journey.

Sharing a memorable experience from his journey, Verma said that he once addressed over 2,000 students at a school in Mukti village in Maharashtra. He then continued walking, and thats when a man approached him and handed him a 100 rupee note, saying something in Marathi. Though the amount was not much, it was valuable as a poor person handed it to me. Also, I was running out of money, Verma shared with HT, stating that those few bucks were enough to keep his walk going.

Verma claims that his walk has inspired over 27,000 people to donate blood. Of these, around 22,000 individuals donated blood at blood donation camps, while others donated blood independently. Additionally, nearly 99 blood donation camps have supported his cause.

The activist shared with HT about his visit to villages where nobody had ever donated blood. He educated them about blood donation. A few days later, I received a call from someone informing me that three people, including himself, had donated blood, said the activist.

Recalling another such incident, Verma shared, In Nagpur I made people aware of blood donation in a notorious area. Surprisingly, four people from that same area came to donate blood at a camp organised at Nagpurs Hislop college.

Verma also shared how a retail company agreed to support his cause. He said, I requested them to display my message Donate Blood, Save Lives on every invoice and they were happy to comply.

The activist plans to lead a normal life with his family and do a 9 to 5 job once his walk is complete. I will give up my 200% during the course of my walk without any prejudice and then I will retire. People will then take ownership of this cause and more people like me will step up, Verma told Hindustan Times.

Verma will complete 500 days of his walk on May 12, 2023. Before that, he intends to visit more countries and raise awareness. He concluded by emphasising, First of all, donate blood. If you cant donate, encourage people around you. Even if you are not able to do that also, make people aware of blood donation as a cause. Spread the word.

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Bangladesh has agreed to pay Russia about $300 million in yuan currency to settle payment for building a nuclear power plant near the capital city Dhaka, according to two officials familiar with the matter. The $12.65 billion power plant in the central district of Pabna, some 140 kilometers west of Dhaka, is being constructed with the help of Moscows state-owned atomic company Rosatom and has been funded by a Russian loan. (REUTERS)

The payment mechanism was finalized at a meeting last week, the officials said, declining to be identified citing rules. Russia initially refused to accept the payment in yuan on concerns of potential currency conversion losses and insisted on payments in ruble, the people said.

The nuclear power project is key to future energy security as Bangladesh grapples with frequent electricity shortages and rising demand from businesses and households. The $12.65 billion power plant in the central district of Pabna, some 140 kilometers west of Dhaka, is being constructed with the help of Moscows state-owned atomic company Rosatom and has been funded by a Russian loan.

Russia is still pushing for an alternative payment system for trade and business, the officials said.

Bangladeshs Finance Minister AHM Mustafa Kamal didnt respond to calls seeking comment on the deal.

Moscow had asked Bangladesh to open a direct payment channel between their central banks to facilitate fund transfers hampered by sanctions against Moscow because of its war in Ukraine. It also proposed that Dhaka consider a variety of proposals including a currency swap agreement, the use of ruble in trade settlements and enabling Bank of Russias messaging system to facilitate bilateral trade and investment.
The United States is able to move forward with its relationship with China following President Joe Biden's meeting with leader Xi Jinping last year, but that requires Beijing to make clear its own intentions, Washington's top diplomat said on Tuesday. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken.(via REUTERS)

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken made the comment at a news conference at the conclusion of the Group of Seven (G7) meeting of rich democracies in Japan's town of Karuizawa.

Also Read: The US escalates chips war With China

Biden met Xi in Indonesia in November for a three-hour meeting aimed at preventing strained ties between the two nations from spilling into a new Cold War.

China's foreign ministry urged the U.S. to stop claiming to put "guardrails" on both countries' relations.

Also Read: US says naval destroyer sailed through Taiwan Strait after China's war games

"The United States has formulated and implemented incorrect policies towards China based on its incorrect understanding of China," ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin told a regular briefing, blaming this for the current tense state of ties.
The California Police have arrested 17 people in connection with a series of shootings in Gurdwaras in Stockton, Sacramento County, and other locations, and seized weapons such as AK-47, handguns, and at least one machine gun during several raids carried out in more than 20 places. Two people were wounded in a shooting that took place in California's Sacramento County. (Photo via Gurudwara's official Facebook page)

Reports indicate that at least four are Indian passport holders and the rest are born and brought up as American national Sikhs.

During the Nagar Kirtan, the first event held at Gurdwara Sacramento Sikh Society on March 26, a shooting occurred, leaving two men in critical condition. The incident took place in the Vineyard area of Sacramento County on Bradshaw Road, where thousands of people had gathered. In response, authorities launched an investigation named Operation Broken Sword, targeting two opposing factions of a criminal syndicate that engaged in various criminal activities, including the sale of firearms and violent crimes. On Sunday, as part of a coordinated "takedown," investigators executed search warrants and seized 41 illegally possessed firearms.

The 17 felony arrests, mostly members of the local Sikh community, were made during a large-scale operation with agents executing search warrants at 20 locations in Northern California on Sunday according to an announcement made by California attorney general Rob Bonta, Yuba City Police chief Brian Baker, and Sutter County District attorney Jennifer Dupre.

2 wanted for murders in India

According to Dupre, two mafia members who are "wanted for a number of murders" in India have been arrested. These individuals are part of rival criminal organisations, accused of committing several violent crimes and shootings, including five attempted murders, in various counties such as Sutter, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Solano, Yolo, and Merced.

The groups to which they belong are believed to be responsible for the mass shooting at a Sikh temple in Stockton on August 27, 2022, and a shooting at a Sikh temple in Sacramento on March 23, 2023. The investigation also revealed that law enforcement was able to prevent two additional shootings from taking place, as stated in a press release.

Today, California is safer thanks to collaboration, determination, and swift action by DOJ agents and our law enforcement partners in Sutter County, said California Attorney General Rob Bonta.

No family should ever have to worry about drive-by shootings or other forms of gun violence in the neighbourhoods where their children live and play. As a result of this joint law enforcement effort, were taking guns off the street and putting suspected gang members and their associates behind bars, he said.

An investigation of this magnitude requires a tremendous amount of time and effort, and especially a lot of personnel, added Dupre.

High-capacity ammunition magazines seized

Authorities have arrested seven people found with four handguns and two assault weapons with high-capacity ammunition magazines in those vehicles near the parade route, and the suspects intent was to take up position along the parade route and shoot at rivals.

Names of the arrested persons

In connection with the guns found in the vehicles near the parade in Sacramento County, eight men were arrested on suspicion of criminal conspiracy to commit attempted murder.

Their names are: Armandeep Singh, Gurvinder Singh, Nitish Kaushal, Harmandeep Singh, Gurminder Singh Kang, Devender Singh, Gursharn Singh, and Grucharan Singh.

Dupre said members of two criminal syndicates responsible for the escalating violence, known as Minta and the AK-47 Group, were initially part of one group before their splintered in rival factions. The district attorney said the motivation behind the violence is still a little murky, but that they basically show up to places and try to shoot each other.

Five men were arrested in connection with the Woodland shooting. They are Sahajpreet Singh, Harkirat Singh, Tirath Ram, Pavittar Singh and Husandeep Singh.

Dupre said Pavittar Singh and Husandeep Singh were fugitives wanted for murder charges in India. Two other men were arrested on their way to Manteca, where investigators believe they were planning to commit a homicide.

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Police in California have arrested 17 people in connection with a series of shootings in Gurdwaras in Stockton, Sacramento and other locations and seized weapons such as AK 47, handguns, and at least one machine gun in a series of raids carried out over 20 places, the State Attorney General said Monday. US Police officers gather during the first large-scale active shooter drill undertaken by at a school.(REUTERS/ Representative image)

The 17 felony arrests, mostly members of the local Sikh community, were made during a large-scale operation with agents executing search warrants at 20 locations in Northern California on Sunday according to an announcement made by California Attorney General Rob Bonta, Yuba City Police Chief Brian Baker, and Sutter County District Attorney Jennifer Dupre.

At a news conference Dupre said, two of the people arrested are mafia members who are wanted on a number of murders in India.

The arrested members, said California Attorney General, are part of rival criminal syndicates who are alleged to be responsible for numerous violent crimes and shootings, including five attempted murders, in Sutter, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Solano, Yolo, and Merced counties.

Members of these groups were allegedly involved in a mass shooting at a Stockton Sikh temple which took place on August 27, 2022, and a shooting at a Sacramento Sikh temple on March 23, 2023.

During the investigation, law enforcement was able to prevent two additional shootings from occurring, a press release said.

Today, California is safer thanks to collaboration, determination, and swift action by DOJ agents and our law enforcement partners in Sutter County, said California Attorney General Rob Bonta.

No family should ever have to worry about drive-by shootings or other forms of gun violence in the neighbourhoods where their children live and play. As a result of this joint law enforcement effort, were taking guns off the street and putting suspected gang members and their associates behind bars, he said.

An investigation of this magnitude requires a tremendous amount of time and effort, and especially a lot of personnel, said Sutter County District Attorney General Jennifer Dupre.
Toronto: The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC), the countrys state network, has paused its activities on Twitter after being labelled government-funded media. CBC, the Canadian state network, has been labelled as government-funded media by Twitter. (Elon Musk/Twitter)

CBC made that announcement several hours after Twitter had added that label to the @CBC handle, though other network handles like CBC News and Radio-Canada, did not appear to have been similarly labelled.

Our journalism is impartial and independent. To suggest otherwise is untrue, CBC said in a tweet, announcing the decision. Similar labels were given by Twitter to other media, including BBC, NPR and Al Jazeera.

CBC added that it is publicly funded through a parliamentary appropriation that is voted upon by all Members of Parliament. Its editorial independence is protected in law in the Broadcasting Act, as we said in our statement from last week. However, it has often been criticised by the opposition in Canada of being biased towards the positions taken by the ruling Liberal Party and the government of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

According to CBC, it received government funding of $1.24 billion Canadian dollars ($926 million) in 2021-22 and $1.39 billion Canadian dollars ($1.03 billion)in 2020-21.

On Monday evening, Twitter owner Elon Musk, who was born in Canada, tweeted that CBCs concerns had been addressed and its label changed to 70% government-funded media, which presently appears as 69% government-funded media. Musk tweeted, Canadian Broadcasting Corp said theyre less than 70% government-funded, so we corrected the label.

The labelling issue has turned political in Canada. On April 11, opposition leader Conservative Pierre Poilievre wrote to Twitter and Musk asking them label CBC as government-funded media. He tweeted, We must protect Canadians against disinformation and manipulation by state media.

Trudeau attacked Poilievre in this regard, as he told reporters: In order to attack this institution that is important for many, many Canadians, he runs to American billionaires, the tech giants that they continue to defend.

It is important to take a moment to assess what Twitter has done. That is why we have pressed pause today on our accounts, CBC News editor-in-chief Brodie Fenlon said, on its website.

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Chinese foreign minister Qin Gang has told his counterparts from Palestine and Israel that China is ready to broker peace talks between them in Beijings latest move to emerge as a regional mediator following its role in helping Iran and Saudi Arabia reestablish ties after several years. Chinese foreign minister Qin Gang. (AFP)

Qin held separate phone calls with Palestinian foreign minister Riyad Al-Maliki, and his Israeli counterpart, Eli Cohen, during which he spoke about steps to resume peace talks, telling the former that China was willing to play an active role in this regard and conveying to the latter that China is ready to provide convenience for this.

China encourages both Israel and Palestine to show political courage and take steps to resume peace talks, and China is ready to provide convenience for this, Qin, who is also state councillor, said Monday, according to the official news agency, Xinhua.

All parties should maintain calm and restraint, and stop excessive and provocative words and deeds, Qin told Cohen, adding that the fundamental way out is to resume peace talks and implement the two-state solution.

Qin told Maliki China supports the strategic autonomy of Middle Eastern countries, adding that China is willing to continue to make contributions to peace and stability in the Middle East.

Israeli-Palestinian peace negotiations have been stalled since 2014 and this month has witnessed renewed violence and deaths in the region, heightening tension even as Tel Aviv grapples with large-scale domestic protests.

Qin reiterated to Maliki that China is highly concerned about the recent intensification of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and the escalation of tensions.

China, he said, has urged the UN Security Council to hold consultations and communicate closely with the international community to try to cool down the situation.

China has no selfish interests on the Israel-Palestine issue, and only hopes that Israel and Palestine can coexist peacefully and safeguard regional peace and stability, Qin told Cohen.

Beijing is projecting itself as an international broker of peace after bringing hostile Tehran and Riyadh together for talks.

The foreign ministers from the two countries met in Beijing earlier this month for the first formal gathering of their top diplomats. Iran is said to have reopened its embassy in Saudi Arabia earlier this month for the first time in seven years.

Qin made it a point to mention that as well in his phone call with Cohen, saying Saudi Arabia and Iran recently restored diplomatic relations through dialogue, setting a good example of overcoming differences through dialogue.

China floated the 12-point peace proposal, titled Chinas Position on the Political Settlement of the Ukraine Crisis in February but has so far failed to stop Russias invasion of the East European country.

In fact, Beijings close ties with Moscow means that it will not be seen as  or expected to be  a neutral player to broker a peace deal despite its assertions of neutrality in the conflict.

Theres also the wider Western concern that China could soon supply lethal weapons to ally Russia under their no limits friendship.

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In a closely watched $1.6 billion defamation lawsuit, Dominion Voting Systems and Fox Corp and Fox News are set to face off in a courtroom showdown on Tuesday. The trial puts Fox in the crosshairs, with jury selection to be completed before opening statements are made. Members of the public wait to enter the Leonard Williams Justice Center where the Dominion Voting Systems defamation trial against FOX News is taking place on April 18, 2023 in Wilmington,(AFP)

Anticipation has been building since Dominion sued Fox in 2021 over false claims that the companys ballot-counting machines were used to rig the 2020 US presidential election in favor of Joe Biden over Donald Trump.

Here are ten key points about the trial that you must know:

1} Dominion is suing Fox Corp and Fox News for $1.6 billion in damages for airing false claims that the companys ballot-counting machines were used to rig the 2020 US presidential election in favor of Joe Biden over Donald Trump.

2} Dominion claims that Fox spread and endorsed one of the most damaging lies in US history.

Dominion in its lawsuit accused Fox of destroying its reputation and business by repeatedly airing false claims that its voting machines were used to rig the election against Republican then-President Donald Trump in favor of the winner, Democrat Joe Biden.

3} Fox faces a potentially enormous judgment because Dominion is also asking for punitive damages in any amount jurors deem appropriate.

4} The primary question for jurors will be whether Fox knowingly spread false information or recklessly disregarded the truth, the standard of "actual malice" that Dominion must show to prevail in a defamation case.

5} Rupert Murdoch, who serves as Fox Corp chairman, is due to testify during the trial, along with a procession of Fox executives such as CEO Suzanne Scott and on-air hosts including Tucker Carlson, Sean Hannity, and Jeanine Pirro.

6} Fox and Dominion had been holding last-minute settlement talks which led to a one-day delay in the trial.

7} Fox has called Dominion's $1.6 billion damages claim unrealistic and based on flawed economic modeling.

The network has said Dominion was worth only $80 million in 2018 and has continued to grow and post strong revenues despite the untrue claims of election-rigging.

8} Smartmatic, another U.S. voting technology company, is pursuing its own defamation lawsuit against Fox seeking $2.7 billion in damages in a New York state court.

9} The trial is expected to last six weeks and will be a test of whether Fox's coverage crossed the line between ethical journalism and the pursuit of ratings, as Dominion alleges and Fox denies.

10} Fox News is arguing in a defamation lawsuit brought by Dominion Voting Systems that the network cannot be proven to have knowingly spread falsehoods or recklessly disregarded the truth. Fox contends that Dominion mischaracterized the network's coverage decisions and that the claims made by President Trump's lawyers about election-rigging were newsworthy.

The network's defense has been limited by a ruling in March that it cannot invoke free speech protections as the statements made were false and defamatory. Fox can now only argue that Dominion cannot prove "actual malice."

(With inputs from agencies)
On Tuesday, the highly anticipated $1.6 billion defamation lawsuit filed by Dominion Voting Systems against Fox Corp and Fox News is scheduled to begin. Jury selection was finalised with exhibit submissions, and the trial will commence with opening statements. This legal battle puts one of the most prominent media organizations worldwide under scrutiny.

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G7 foreign ministers warned Tuesday that countries helping Russia wage war in Ukraine would "face severe costs," in a statement issued after two days of talks in Japan. Russian President Vladimir Putin attends a meeting with Defence Minister in Moscow on April 17, 2023. (Photo by Gavriil GRIGOROV / SPUTNIK / AFP)(AFP)

The top diplomats announced no new measures against Moscow but pledged to step up sanctions enforcement while warning "third parties to cease assistance to Russia's war, or face severe costs".

They also condemned a Russian threat to station nuclear weapons in Belarus as "unacceptable".
A parking garage partially collapsed Tuesday in lower Manhattan's Financial District, and firefighters were searching for people who might have been trapped in the debris, authorities said. One person was seen being carried out on a stretcher. This photo provided by Charlie Franklin shows a partially collapsed parking garage in lower Manhattan's Financial District on Tuesday, April 18, 2023, in New York City. Officials didn't immediately release any information on injuries. (Charlie Franklin via AP)

Bystander video showed cars hanging precariously from a buckled upper deck of the three-story building, a few blocks from City Hall and the Brooklyn Bridge, and about half a mile (0.8 km) from the New York Stock Exchange.

It felt like an earthquake, said Liam Gaeta, a student at nearby Pace University. He said he heard a large noise and a big rumbling, and then we all got evacuated.

Other Pace students described hearing screams and seeing cars falling in the building, which caved in around 4 p.m.

The Fire Department said there were reports of people trapped and that searches were being conducted to make sure everyone was accounted for. At one point, firefighters were pulled out because of concerns about the building's stability, the department said.

New York Mayor Eric Adams was en route to the scene, said spokesperson Fabien Levy. He described what happened as a partial collapse.
As the clashes between the military and paramilitary forces in Sudan entered the fourth day, the Indian Embassy in Sudan issued a statement saying that the situation might continue for a few more days and Indian nationals should try to stay inside and remain safe. The two army forces have been fighting in Sudan since Saturday after weeks-long tensions that had been boiling between the generals of the military and paramilitary. (AP)

In its advisory on Twitter, the Indian Embassy said, We have come across many instances of looting. All Indian nationals are advised please not to venture out. Please ration your supplies. The situation may continue for a few more days. Please try to take help from your neighbours. Please stay at home and remain safe.

The two army forces have been fighting in Sudan since Saturday after weeks-long tensions that had been boiling between the generals of the military, Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the countrys powerful government paramilitary force, Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

An Indian citizen, Albert Augestine, had lost his life on Saturday amid the RSF-SAF clashes, the Indian Embassy had said. Working for the Dal Group Company in Sudan, Augestine was hit by a stray bullet.

Senior Congress leader and former Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah on Tuesday had urged the External Affairs Ministry and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ensure safe return of the Kannadigas stuck in Sudan. Siddaramaiah said that 31 people of the Hakki Pikki tribe were stuck in Sudan.

The United Nations reported on Monday that over 200 people had lost their lives and around 1800 had been wounded in the clashes.

As reported by Reuters, the two army forces have agreed to a 24-hour ceasefire after continuous pressure from the United States.

The European Union Ambassador to Sudan was also attacked in his home in Sudan's capital Khartoum on Monday.

The United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, along with other countries including the United States, United Kingdom as well as G7 foreign ministers have urged the two forces to call a ceasefire and immediately bring a halt to the figthing.

Guterres said, Fighting in Sudan has already led to horrendous loss of life. Any further escalation could be devastating for the country & the region. Those with influence over the situation must use it to support efforts to end the violence, restore order & return to the path of transition.

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Interested investors may have to dig deep into their pockets to claim a giant Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton going up for auction on Tuesday  a first in Europe  that's been dug up from three sites in the United States and could make the ultimate ornament for a tycoon's abode or other eye-popping display. A view of the skeleton of a Tyrannosaurus rex named Trinity, during a preview by auction house Koller at the Tonhalle Zurich concert hall.(AP)

Read here: 2,000-year-old statue of Greek god Eros discovered in Italy

The 293 T. rex bones, assembled and erected into a growling 11.6-meter-long (38-foot-long) and 3.9-meter-high (12.8-foot-high) posture, are expected to fetch 5 million to 8 million Swiss francs ($5.6-$8.9 million) when it goes under the hammer at a Zurich auction house.

Promoters say the composite T. rex  dubbed Trinity and drawn from three sites in the Hell Creek and Lance Creek formations of Montana and Wyoming  was built from specimens retrieved between 2008 and 2013.

More than half of the restored fossil is original bone material, and Koller auction house says the skull is particularly rare and was remarkably well-preserved.

"When dinosaurs died in the Jurassic or Cretaceous periods, they often lost their heads during deposition. In fact, most dinosaurs are found without their skulls," Nils Knoetschke, a scientific adviser who was quoted in the auction catalogue. But here we have truly original Tyrannosaurus skull bones that all originate from the same specimen.

T. rex roamed the Earth between 65 and 67 million years ago, and Hollywood movies  perhaps epitomized by the blockbuster Jurassic Park franchise  have added to the public fascination with the carnivorous creature.

The same areas were the source of two other dinosaurs skeletons that also went on the block, says Koller: Sue sold for $8.4 million over a quarter-century ago, and Stan fetched nearly $32 million three years ago.

Read here: Rare Tyrannosaurus-Rex skeleton to go under the hammer in Switzerland

Tuesday's sale, part of a wider auction of artifacts, marks only the third time such a T. rex skeleton has gone up for auction, Koller says.
A Moscow court on Tuesday rejected an appeal from US journalist Evan Gershkovich to be freed from pre-trial detention, meaning he will stay in a former KGB prison until at least May 29 while a spying case against him is investigated. Russia's FSB security service arrested Gershkovich on March 29 against espionage charges for collecting 'state secrets' about the military industrial complex.(AFP)

Gershkovich, a reporter for the Wall Street Journal, denies the espionage charges. He looked calm and smiled as he stood in a glass and metal cage before the appeal ruling, wearing a checked shirt with his arms folded in front of him.

Also Read: US journalist remains in Russian detention without consular access

His legal team suggested he be freed on bail of 50 million roubles ($614,000) or placed under house arrest, Tatiana Nozhkina, his lawyer, was quoted as saying by Russia's RIA news agency. She said the court had rejected both suggestions.

Before the hearing got underway, Gershkovich turned around when one of the Russian reporters in the courtroom told him to "Stay Strong!" and relayed to him that everyone said "Hi". U.S. Ambassador Lynne Tracy stood nearby.

When asked by the judge if he needed translation, Gershkovich said no and that he understood everything.

Russia's FSB security service arrested Gershkovich on March 29 in the Urals city of Yekaterinburg on espionage charges that carry a possible 20-year prison sentence for collecting what it said were state secrets about the military industrial complex.

The Kremlin has said Gershkovich, the first US journalist detained in Russia on espionage charges since the end of the Cold War, was caught "red-handed".

The United States has deemed him "wrongfully detained," his employer and colleagues have said he is innocent, and President Joe Biden has called his detention illegal.

Also Read: Russia formally charges WSJ reporter Gershkovich with espionage: Report

His lawyer Nozhkina told reporters he was reading Russian literature, adding, "He's in a combative mood, denies he is guilty, and is ready to prove it."

Tuesday's hearing was procedural, covering how Gershkovich should be detained, not the substance of the charges against him as investigators are still working on the details of the case.

Gershkovich, the son of Soviet emigres, is being held at the Lefortovo prison, which in Soviet times was run by the KGB but is now operated by the Federal Penitentiary Service.

Traditionally it has been used to hold those suspected of spying and other grave crimes.

U.S. ambassador Tracy said on Monday she had made her first visit to Gershkovich.

"He feels well and is holding up. We reiterate our call for Evan's immediate release," Tracy said in a statement.

The White House said it hopes to secure regular consular access to Gershkovich.

Also Read: Family of reporter jailed by Russia on espionage charges spoke to Biden

Washington last week designated Gershkovich as "wrongfully detained", in effect saying that the spy charges were bogus and the case was political.

The US hostage envoy has pledged to do "whatever it takes" to bring home Gershkovich and Paul Whelan, an American ex-Marine who was convicted of espionage in 2020 and has also been designated by Washington as wrongfully detained.
The Kremlin said on Tuesday that President Vladimir Putin had visited two frontline regions in Ukraine, prompting a strong rebuke from Kyiv which said he was viewing "the crimes of his minions". Russia-Ukraine war: President Vladimir Putin visiting the headquarters of the Dniepr military grouping in the Kherson region of Ukraine.(AFP)

The Kremlin did not say when Putin visited the southern region of Kherson and the eastern region of Lugansk, which Putin claimed to have annexed last September without fully controlling them.

Read here: Bangladesh to pay Russia $300 million in Chinese currency for nuclear plant

The Kremlin chief sent troops to Ukraine in February, 2022, triggering the largest conflict in Europe since World War II.

Ukrainian forces have said they are preparing for a spring counter-offensive.

Mykhailo Podolyak, an advisor to President Volodymyr Zelensky, dismissed Putin's trip as "a 'special tour' of the mass murders author... to enjoy the crimes of his minions for the last time."

After Putin's visit was made public on Tuesday, Ukrainian officials said Russian forces had shelled the central market area of Kherson, injuring six people.

Last year, Russia was beaten back in northern and southern regions and Moscow's forces have made only incremental gains in eastern Ukraine.

Much of the fighting is now concentrated around the eastern town of Bakhmut which has become the longest and bloodiest battle of the conflict.

During his trip to Ukraine, Putin met Russian military commanders and discussed the situation on several fronts of the pro-Western country, the Kremlin said.

Video footage released by the Kremlin showed Putin disembarking from a helicopter as he visited the headquarters of the Dnieper army group in the Kherson region.

He also visited national guard headquarters in Lugansk in eastern Ukraine.

"It's important for me to hear your opinion on the situation, to listen to you and to exchange information," Putin said in the video, surrounded by senior military commanders.

The Russian leader wished the troops a happy Easter, which Orthodox Christians marked last Sunday, and gifted them copies of old icons, the Kremlin said.

His trips to Kherson and Lugansk came after the Kremlin said in March that the Russian leader had made a surprise trip to the port city of Mariupol that Moscow captured after a long siege last spring.

Creeping advances

British military intelligence said on Tuesday that "heavy fighting" continued along the Donbas front line.

"However, there is a realistic possibility that Russia has reduced troop numbers and is decreasing offensive action around Donetsk city, most likely to divert resources towards the Bakhmut sector," it said in a statement on Twitter.

The statement said that in Bakhmut, Russia's regular troops and forces from the Wagner mercenary outfit continued to make "creeping advances."

"The front line in the town centre largely follows the main railway line," the statement said.

Ukraine, the statement said, wants "to free-up an offensive force while Russia likely aspires to regenerate an operational reserve."

The commander of Ukrainian ground forces, Oleksandr Syrskyi, said Russian troops were not abandoning their goal of taking control of Bakhmut "at any cost," ramping up the use of heavy artillery and air strikes.

Kyrylo Budanov, chief of Ukraine's military intelligence, for his part said that Russia currently had "no offensive potential for a strategic offensive operation."

Read here: G7 warns nations aiding Russia in Ukraine conflict of 'severe costs'

The head of the Ukrainian president's office, Andriy Yermak, meanwhile said he spoke with US national security adviser Jake Sullivan.

"We agreed on further coordination on the issue of providing aid in Ukraine and discussed further steps in this direction," he said on Telegram.
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan will land in Damascus on Tuesday, Syria's information ministry told reporters in a written note, on his first visit to the country since conflict broke out in Syria in 2011. Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah with Syrian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Faisal Mekdad in Jeddah.(Reuters)

The visit is the most significant step yet towards ending Syria's decade-long regional isolation over its response to protests against President Bashar al-Assad.

Following the crackdown against demonstrators, Syria's membership in the Arab League was suspended and several Gulf Arab states - including Saudi Arabia - began backing rebel groups fighting to oust Assad from power.

Assad, with the help of his main allies Iran and Russia, regained control over much of Syria, and Saudi Arabia has said in recent months that isolating him was not working.

The two sides agreed to resume diplomatic ties, and Reuters reported this month that bin Farhan would travel to Damascus to invite Assad to the Arab League's next summit in Riyadh on May 19, two sources familiar with the plans said.

Saudi Arabia hosted Syrian Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad last week and then held a summit in Jeddah among the foreign ministers of the Gulf Cooperation Council, Egypt, Jordan and Iraq to discuss Syria's possible return to the Arab fold.
Fighting between the army and paramilitaries in Sudan has killed around 200 people and wounded 1,800, damaging hospitals and hampering aid on Monday after three days of urban warfare. Smoke is seen rising from a neighborhood in Khartoum, Sudan, Saturday, April 15. (AP)

A weeks-long power struggle exploded into deadly violence Saturday between the forces of two generals who seized power in a 2021 coup, Sudan's army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his deputy, Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who commands the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Analysts say the fighting in the capital of the chronically unstable country is unprecedented and could be prolonged, despite regional and global calls for a ceasefire as diplomats mobilise.

The European Union's ambassador to Sudan was attacked in his home in Khartoum on Monday, the bloc's top diplomat Josep Borrell said. A spokesperson told AFP the veteran diplomat was "OK" following the assault.

"Security of diplomatic premises and staff is a primary responsibility of Sudanese authorities and an obligation under international law," Borrell said.

Battles have taken place throughout the vast country and there are fears of regional spillover.

Terrified residents of the capital are spending the last and holiest days of Ramadan watching from their windows as tanks roll through the streets, buildings shake, and smoke from fires triggered by the fighting hangs in the air.

The conflict has seen air strikes, artillery and heavy gunfire.

Those compelled to venture out face queues for bread and petrol at outlets which are not shuttered. Residents are also dealing with power outages.

Hospitals 'out of service'

Volker Perthes, the head of the United Nations mission to Sudan, told the Security Council in a closed-door session that at least 185 people have been killed and another 1,800 wounded.

"It's a very fluid situation so it's very difficult to say where the balance is shifting to," Perthes told reporters after the meeting.

Earlier Monday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres again urged Sudan's warring parties to "immediately cease hostilities". He warned that further escalation "could be devastating for the country and the region."

Medics in Sudan had earlier given a death toll of nearly 100 civilians and "dozens" of fighters from both sides, but the number of casualties was thought to be far higher, with many wounded unable to reach hospitals.

The official doctors' union warned fighting had "heavily damaged" multiple hospitals in Khartoum and other cities, with some completely "out of service".

The World Health Organization had already warned that several Khartoum hospitals tending to wounded civilians "have run out of blood, transfusion equipment, intravenous fluids and other vital supplies".

In the western region of Darfur, international medical aid organisation Doctors Without Borders (MSF) reported receiving 136 wounded patients at the only hospital in El Fasher still operating in North Darfur state.

"The majority of the wounded are civilians who were caught in the crossfire -- among them are many children," MSF's Cyrus Paye said.

Due to limited surgical capacity, "11 people died from their injuries in the first 48 hours of the conflict."

Call for talks

Three UN World Food Programme staff were also among those killed, on Saturday in Darfur, where humanitarian missions have had medical and other supplies looted, according to Save the Children and MSF.

A number of organisations have temporarily suspended operations in the country, where one-third of the population needs aid.

"This renewed fighting only aggravates what was already a fragile situation, forcing UN agencies and our humanitarian partners to temporarily shutter many of our more than 250 programmes across Sudan," said UN emergency relief coordinator Martin Griffiths.

Diplomatic manoeuvres seemed to ramp up on Monday, as the fighting showed no signs of abating.

Influential northern neighbour Egypt announced it had discussed with Saudi Arabia, South Sudan and Djibouti -- all close allies of Sudan -- "the need to make every effort to preserve stability and safety".

President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi called on the two warring parties to "return to the negotiating table" and said he was working on the return of Egyptian military "trainers" captured Saturday at an air base by RSF forces.

The Gulf emirate Qatar spoke to African Union commission head Moussa Faki Mahamat, who is planning to "immediately" undertake a ceasefire mission.

There are no more civilian flights arriving in Khartoum, where fighting has damaged aircraft.

Unprecedented

On Twitter Daglo called on the international community to intervene against Burhan, branding him a "radical Islamist who is bombing civilians from the air".

"We will continue to pursue Al-Burhan and bring him to justice," said Daglo, whose RSF and its predecessor the Janjaweed in Darfur have previously been accused of atrocities and war crimes.

Army statements call the RSF "a rebel militia" intent on "engaging near populated areas".

The fighting broke out after bitter disagreements between Burhan and Daglo over the planned integration of the RSF into the regular army -- a key condition for a final deal aimed at ending a crisis since the 2021 coup, which derailed a transition to democracy.

Both claim to be in control of key sites, including the airport and the presidential palace -- none of which could be independently verified.

On Monday, the army resumed broadcasting on state TV.

While Sudan has endured decades of bitter civil wars, coups and rebellions since independence, Sudanese analyst Kholood Khair said the level of fighting inside the capital was "unprecedented".

The generals' coup derailed a transition to civilian rule following the 2019 ouster of strongman Omar al-Bashir, triggering international aid cuts and sparking near-weekly protests met by a deadly crackdown.
The Sudanese army and a rival paramilitary force that have been battling the past four days for control of the country agreed on Tuesday to a 24-hour cease-fire, Arab media reports said. People walk past shuttered shops in Khartoum, Sudan, Tuesday, April 18, 2023. Sudan's embattled capital has awoken to a fourth day of heavy fighting between the army and a powerful rival force for control of the country. Airstrikes and shelling intensified on Monday in parts of Khartoum and the adjoining city of Omdurman.(AP)

Hopes for at least a pause in the violence came as intensified fighting threatened to spiral even further into chaos.

Millions of Sudanese in the capital and in other major cities have been hiding in their homes, caught in the crossfire as the two forces pounded residential areas with artillery and airstrikes and engaged in gunbattles in the street.

Over the past day, fighters in Khartoum attacked a US Embassy convoy and stormed the home of the EU envoy to Sudan, though neither attack caused casualties.

The convoy of clearly marked US Embassy vehicles was attacked on Monday, and preliminary reports link the assailants to the Rapid Support Forces, the paramilitary group battling Sudan's military, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters. Everyone in the convoy was safe, he said.

Satellite channels Al Arabiya and Al Jazeera cited Lt. Gen. Shams El Din Kabbashi, a senior figure in the military command, as saying that the military would comply with the cease-fire.

CNN Arabic cited the head of the military, Gen. Abdel Fattah Burhan, saying it would be party to the day-long truce. Earlier in the day, the military's opponent, the Rapid Support Forces, said it would abide by a 24-hour humanitarian truce.

There was no immediate public announcement of a cease-fire from military officials, however. In the afternoon clashes were still reported around the military's headquarters and close to the neighbouring airport, both major battle zones since fighting first erupted on Saturday.

There was also fighting around a strategic air base in Merowe, some 350 kilometres (215 miles) northwest of Khartoum.

More than 185 people have been killed and more than 1,800 wounded since fighting began Saturday, according to UN figures, which did not include a breakdown of civilians and combatants. The Sudan Doctors' Syndicate said Tuesday that at least 144 civilians were killed and more than 1,400 were wounded.

The overall death toll could be much higher because clashes in Khartoum have prevented the removal of bodies in some areas.

The violence has raised the spectre of civil war just as the Sudanese were trying to revive the drive for a democratic, civilian government after decades of military rule. Amid increasing alarm, Blinken had stepped up efforts for a cease-fire.

He spoke by phone late Monday separately with the two rival generals  armed forces chief, Gen. Burhan, and RSF leader Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo  seeking a 24-hour halt in fighting as a foundation for a longer truce and return to negotiations.

Dagalo said in a series of tweets Tuesday that he had approved a 24-hour humanitarian truce after speaking to Blinken.

The military's initial response appeared to reject any halt. It said in a statement that it was not aware of any coordination with mediators on a truce and that more troops would join the battle. The fighting, it said, entered the decisive phase, and that the coming hours would see a crushing defeat of the RSF.

More tanks and armoured vehicles belonging to the military rolled into Khartoum early Tuesday, heading towards the military's headquarters and the Republican Palace, the seat of power, residents said. During the night, fighter jets swooped overhead and anti-aircraft fire lit up the skies.

Fighting resumed early Tuesday around each side's main bases and at strategic government buildings  all of which are in residential areas. Video from the Arab TV network Al Arabiya showed a large explosion near the main military headquarters in central Khartoum that raised a giant cloud of smoke and dust.

Satellite images from Maxar Technologies taken Monday showed damage across Khartoum, including to security service buildings. Tanks stood guard at a bridge over the White Nile River and other locations in the Sudanese capital.

Satellite images from Planet Labs PBC, also taken Monday, showed some 20 damaged civilian and military aircraft at Khartoum International Airport, which has a military section.

Some had been completely destroyed, with one still belching smoke. At the El Obeid and Merowe air bases, north and south of Khartoum, several fighter jets were among the destroyed aircraft.

Each side already has tens of thousands of troops distributed around the districts of Khartoum and the city of Omdurman on the opposite bank of the Nile River. That has brought the fighting and chaos  with gunbattles, artillery barrages and airstrikes  to the doorsteps of the cities' terrified residents.

Residents have reported looting of shops and homes by fighters. One resident near Khartoum's Arabic Market area, said he saw a group of armed men in RSF uniform smashing doors of shops in the area and stealing goods including mobile phones. The paramilitary force denied the accusations and claimed that some people disguised as RSF troops and stormed residential houses.

The European Union's foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell tweeted Monday that the EU ambassador to Sudan was assaulted in his own residency, without providing further details.

A Western diplomat in Cairo said the residence was ransacked by armed men in RSF uniforms. No one was hurt but the armed men stole several items, said the diplomat, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to talk to the media.

The RSF denied involvement in the attack, instead blaming the military. The military blamed the RSF, which grew out of the notorious Janjaweed militias in Sudan's Darfur region, for the attacks on the US convoy and the EU envoy's home.

Early Sunday, the Norwegian ambassador's residence in Khartoum was hit by a shell, Norwegian Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt said in a statement. The hit caused damage but the ambassador was not injured, she said, adding that it did not appear the residence was intentionally targeted.

Only four years ago, Sudan inspired hope after a popular uprising helped depose long-time autocratic leader Omar al-Bashir.

Burhan and Dagalo jointly orchestrated an October 2021 coup, derailing efforts to enshrine a civilian government. Both generals have a long history of human rights abuses, and their forces have cracked down on pro-democracy activists.

Under international pressure, Burhan and Dagalo recently agreed to a framework agreement with political parties and pro-democracy groups. But the signing was repeatedly delayed as tensions rose over the integration of the RSF into the armed forces and the future chain of command  tensions that exploded into violence Saturday.
A five-judge Supreme Court bench Tuesday, began hearing a batch of petitions regarding the legalisation of same-sex marriages in India. This comes after at least 15 petitions on the matter were referred to a larger bench for an authoritative decision last month by a CJI-led bench, who called it a "very seminal issue. Members of LGBTQ+ community take part in 17th Kolkata Rainbow Pride Walk, in Kolkata.(ANI)

While the Bharatiya Janata Party-led central government has been opposing the pleas, terming them as merely reflecting urban elitist views, the petitioners argued that the LGBTQIA+ community deserved wider constitutional entitlements based on the right to life and personal liberty, the right to dignity, and other related rights. The challenge to status quo follows the 2018 Supreme Court decision, when it decriminalised Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code, which criminalised any consensual sexual acts between homosexual people.

Meanwhile, if legalised, the decision will put India among the list of these nations where marriage equality exists.

Cuba Andorra Slovenia Chile Switerland Costa Rica Austria Taiwan Ecuador Belgium Britain Denmark Finland France Germany Iceland Ireland Luxembourg Malta Norway Portugal Spain Sweden Mexico South Africa United States Colombia Brazil Argentina Canada Netherlands New Zealand Portugal Uruguay

While Netherlands was the first ever nation to legalise same-sex marrige in the year 2001, Taiwan has landed the feat to become the first Asian nation to do so.

Of these 34 nations, 23 legalised same sex couples to marry through legislation, while ten through through court decisions. Both South Africa and Taiwan enacted the legislation following courts mandates.

The data was sourced by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation's report marriage equality around the world. The report also said that India is among the five nations to watch for the adopting marriage equality in 2023. The others are Czech Republic, Japan, Philippines and Thailand.

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Have you heard of the drug Benadryl? If so have you ever thought of it as a drug that kills? If not read on. Benadryl tablets

Jacob Stevens, a 13-year-old from United States' Ohio lost his life earlier this month while doing TikTok's Benadryl Challenge. His family revealed he had ingested 12 to 14 pills of the drug while doing a TikTok challenge which apparently led to his death, states a Dailymail report. The boy did this in a bid to experience hallucinations. However, he met his fate after spending almost a week on the ventilator.

The first of such cases was reported in September 2020 when a 15-year-old girl from the US state of Oklahoma met a similar fate after attempting the challenge.

What is the challenge all about?

The Benadryl Challenge which started on the social media platform Tiktok encourages its users to take 12-14 pills of the over-the-counter-drug diphenhydramine to experience hallucinations. This drug is found commonly in products like Benadryl and other over-the-counter (OTC) medicines.

However, the drug usage specifies that children in the age group of 6-12 should intake a maximum of only 6 tablets in a period of 24 hours whereas children over 12 years of age can intake a maximum of 12 tablets.
A Russian court on Monday convicted top opposition figure Vladimir Kara-Murza Jr. of treason for publicly denouncing Moscows war in Ukraine and sentenced him to 25 years in prison as part of the Kremlins relentless crackdown on critics of the invasion. Russian opposition activist Vladimir Kara-Murza is escorted to a hearing in a court in Moscow, Russia.(AP file photo)

The political activist and journalist, who twice survived poisonings he blamed on Russian authorities, has rejected the charges against him as punishment for standing up to President Vladimir Putin and likened the proceedings to the show trials under Soviet dictator Josef Stalin.

Human rights organizations and Western governments denounced the verdict and demanded his release. Amnesty International declared the 41-year-old to be a prisoner of conscience.

Kara-Murza reacted calmly as the judge read the verdict and sentence in a quick monotone. His lawyer, Maria Eismont, later quoted him as telling her: My self-esteem has risen: I realized that I have done everything right. Twenty-five years is the highest appraisal that I could get for doing what I did and what I believed in, as a citizen, a patriot and a politician.

Kara-Murzas wife, Evgenia, who lives in the U.S. with their three children, tweeted after the verdict: A quarter of a century is an A  for your courage, consistency and honesty in your years-long work. I am infinitely proud of you, my love, and Im always by your side.

The charges against Kara-Murza, a dual Russian-British citizen who has been behind bars since his arrest a year ago, stem from a March 2022 speech to the Arizona House of Representatives in which he denounced Russias invasion of Ukraine, as well as other speeches abroad.

Also Read: Toddler among 9 killed in Russian strike on eastern Ukraine

There are millions of people in my country who fundamentally reject and fundamentally disagree with everything that the Putin regime represents and stands for, from the kleptocracy and thievery to the abuses and the repressions and the crimes against humanity that are being committed, Kara-Murza said in his 17-minute speech to lawmakers in Arizona, which he visited at the invitation of the Phoenix Committee on Foreign Relations.

It was an absolute honor for me to witness his courage last year when he addressed the full Legislature, said state Rep. Marcelino Quinonez, a Democrat and House Minority Whip. Obviously this sentence is a travesty for justice all around the world.

Days after the invasion, Russia adopted a law criminalizing spreading false information about its military. Authorities have used the law to stifle criticism of what the Kremlin calls its special military operation."

Kara-Murza was initially only charged with spreading false information about the military, but later the authorities added charges of working with an undesirable organization  also a criminal offense  and treason.

The sweeping campaign of repression is unprecedented since the Soviet era, effectively criminalizing independent reporting on the conflict and any public criticism of the war.

Another prominent opposition figure, Ilya Yashin, was sentenced to 8 years in prison last year on charges of spreading false information about the military.

Last month, a Russian court convicted a father over social media posts critical of the war and sentenced him to two years in prison. His 13-year-old daughter, who drew an antiwar sketch at school, was sent to an orphanage. Days later, Russias security service arrested Evan Gershkovich, an American reporter for The Wall Street Journal, on espionage charges.

A recent report by the Russian Supreme Court said that in 2022, courts ordered citizens to pay fines for discrediting the military 4,439 times, for the equivalent of about $1.8 million in total, according to Russia's independent news site Mediazona.

In a statement at the end of his trial, Kara-Murza said he was jailed for "many years of struggle against Putins dictatorship, his criticism of the war in Ukraine and his long efforts to champion Western sanctions against Russian officials involved in human rights abuses.

I know that the day will come when the darkness engulfing our country will dissipate, he told the court in remarks posted on his Twitter account. This day will come as inevitably as spring comes to replace even the frostiest winter."

Kara-Murza was an associate of Russian opposition leader and fierce Putin critic Boris Nemtsov, who was assassinated near the Kremlin in 2015.

In 2011-12, Kara-Murza and Nemtsov lobbied for passage of the Magnitsky Act in the U.S. The law was in response to the death in prison of Russian lawyer Sergei Magnitsky, who had exposed a tax fraud scheme. The law has enabled Washington to impose sanctions on Russians deemed to be human rights violators.

The judge in Kara-Murzas trial, Sergei Podoprigorov, was among those sanctioned after ordering Magnitskys arrest in 2008. Podoprigorov had petitioned U.S. authorities in 2018 to lift the sanctions against him, according to Kara-Murzas lawyer, Vadim Prokhorov. During Kara-Murza's trial, Prokhorov twice asked Podoprigorov to recuse himself, to no avail, Russian media reported.

Kara-Murza had been a friend of Sen. John McCain and was a pallbearer at his 2018 funeral. McCains choice of the Russian dissident as a pallbearer was widely seen as a slap at then-President Donald Trump, a fellow Republican who was often criticized by the senator for what he saw as having a cozy relationship with Putin. Kara-Murza had worked with McCain on pushing anti-Putin measures through Congress.

The politician and activist survived poisonings in 2015 and 2017 that he blamed on the Kremlin. Russian officials have denied responsibility.

Amnesty International denounced Kara-Murza's sentence as yet another chilling example of the systematic repression of civil society, which has broadened and accelerated under the Kremlin since Russias invasion of Ukraine last year."

The group declared Kara-Murza a prisoner of conscience, convicted for his political beliefs, and demanded his immediate and unconditional release.

Memorial, one of Russias oldest and most prominent human rights organizations that was named a co-winner of the 2022 Nobel Peace Prize along with human rights defenders from Ukraine and Belarus, also has named Kara-Murza as a political prisoner.

Memorial's head Yan Rachinsky described the sentence as monstrous, adding that it reflected the authorities' fear of criticism and marked a difference between today's Russia and civilized countries.

British and U.S. ambassadors to Russia called for Kara-Murzas immediate release, speaking to reporters on the steps of the Moscow courthouse. Western governments strongly condemned the conviction.

Vladimir Kara-Murza bravely denounced Russias invasion of Ukraine for what it was  a blatant violation of international law and the U.N. Charter, British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said in a statement.

The Foreign Office said it summoned Russian Ambassador Andrey Kelin over the conviction. The U.K. previously sanctioned the presiding judge for human rights violations in another case and said it would consider taking further action to hold people accountable in Kara-Murza's case.

The U.S. State Department praised Kara-Murza along with jailed opposition leader Alexei Navalny, Yashin and many others who serve their country and their fellow citizens at great personal cost by boldly standing up for human rights and fundamental freedoms. It renewed its call for the release of Kara-Murza and more than 400 other political prisoners in Russia.

The U.N. Human Rights Chief Volker Turk called the sentence another blow to the rule of law and civic space in the Russian Federation."

Former Arizona state Rep. Cesar N. Chavez, a Democrat who was vice chairman of international affairs committee to the legislature when Kara-Murza gave his speech, called the sentence appalling and sad to those of us who live in a free society.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov refused to comment.

Kara-Murza's health has deteriorated in custody, leading to the development of polyneuropathy  disease of or damage to nerves  in both his feet, according to his lawyers.

Lawyer Prokhorov told German public broadcaster Deutsche Welle on Monday that the politician was handed in essence, a death sentence.
Britain's information regulator said on Tuesday it had reprimanded two police forces for recording over 200,000 phone calls, likely with victims, witnesses and perpetrators of suspected crimes, without people's knowledge. United Kingdom (File)

The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) said the reprimand was issued to Surrey Police and Sussex Police, following the roll-out of an app in 2016 that recorded phone conversations and unlawfully captured personal data.

The police forces did not immediately respond to Reuters' requests for a comment.

The ICO said it became aware in 2020 that staff members across both police forces had access to the app which recorded all incoming and outgoing phone calls.

The app was downloaded by 1,015 staff members and more than 200,000 recordings of phone conversations were automatically saved, the regulator said.

"We can only estimate the huge amount of personal data collected during these conversations, including highly sensitive information relating to suspected crimes," ICO Deputy Commissioner for Regulatory Supervision Stephen Bonner said in the statement.

"This case should be a lesson learned to any organisation planning to introduce an app, product or service that uses people's personal data. Organisations must consider people's data protection rights and implement data protection principles from the very start."
A U.S. diplomatic convoy came under fire on Monday in Sudan, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Tuesday, adding that initial reports suggested that it was carried out by forces associated with Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. Smoke rises from burning aircraft inside Khartoum Airport during clashes between the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces and the army in Khartoum, Sudan April 17, 2023(REUTERS)

He said he spoke in separate phone conversations earlier on Tuesday to General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, commander of the Sudanese Armed Forces, and General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, head of the RSF, and said that any danger posed to American diplomats was unacceptable.
Prosecutors charged an 84-year-old white Kansas City man with two felonies on Monday in the shooting of a Black teenager who was wounded after walking up to the wrong house when going to pick up his younger twin brothers. Ralph Yarl, a Black 16-year-old who was shot and wounded by a homeowner after mistakenly going to the wrong house.(Reuters)

Read here: US diplomatic convoy fired on in Sudan amid power struggles, says Blinken

Andrew Lester was charged with first-degree assault, which could bring a sentence of life in prison, and armed criminal action for shooting Ralph Yarl, 16, on the doorstep of his suburban home around 10 p.m. last Thursday, the prosecutor said.

"I can tell you there was a racial component to the case," Clay County prosecutor Zachary Thompson told a news conference, without providing further details.

Lester fired two shots through a glass door from a .32-caliber revolver, the prosecutor said. Yarl, who was struck in the head and an arm, did not cross the threshold, Thompson said, adding it did not appear any words were exchanged in the encounter.

But Yarl told police in an interview at the hospital where he was treated that the man told him, "Don't come around here," local media reported, citing court documents.

The teen was recovering at home on Monday, his family said.

In addition to facing life in prison should he be found guilty of the assault charge, he could be sentenced to up to 15 years for criminal action, the prosecutor said. Hate crimes, which were not filed, carry lesser penalties in Missouri, he added.

An arrest warrant had been issued for Lester with bond set at $200,000, but as of 5 p.m. CDT (2200 GMT) he was not in custody, the prosecutor said.

The homeowner was initially taken into custody, placed on a 24-hour investigative hold, then released pending an interview with Yarl and the collection of forensic evidence, Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves said.

His release helped fuel two days of protests. Demonstrators gathered again on Monday at the suspect's single-story house on a tree-lined street, shouting "Black lives are under attack" and "Stand up, fight back," online videos showed.

"No child should ever live in fear of being shot for ringing the wrong doorbell," Vice President Kamala Harris tweeted in response to the shooting.

President Joe Biden spoke by phone with Yarl, a senior administration official said on Monday.

The family's lawyer Ben Crump on Monday had demanded the homeowner be arrested and charged with attempted murder of a teenager described by his school district as an "excellent student and talented musician."

Read here: California Gurdwara shootings: 2 wanted in India for murders among 17 arrested

Missouri has a "stand-your-ground law" that allows homeowners to use physical force to defend themselves against suspected intruders.

The law says a person cannot use deadly force unless they reasonably believe it is necessary to protect themselves or another person against death or serious physical injury, or a possible felony.
A British man died at a low-grade strip club in Poland after consuming 22 shots of alcohol in a duration of 90 minutes, according to reports by UK daily Metro. The victim was identified as 36-year-old Mark C who was reportedly drunk when he arrived at the club with his friend, after they were apparently lured in by an offer of free entry. The victim was identified as 36-year-old Mark C who was reportedly drunk when he arrived at the club with his friend.(Getty Images via AFP)

Also read: Health authorities in Canada issue new alcohol consumption guidelines

Investigators said Mark was insisted by staff with repeated offers of drinks despite his refusal. After having two dozen powerful shots, he collapsed and later died. He was then robbed off 2,200 Polish Zloty ( 42,816) in cash. Mark's blood had at least 0.4% alcohol at the time of his death, which is considered lethal.

Police carried out several raids at various night clubs to bust such crimes and arrested 58 people so far. According to Polish investigating agency, these clubs run rackets to steal money from customers after getting them drunk.

One of the leads investigated by the investigators in the case concerns the victim who was driven to a state of intoxication, causing loss of consciousness, and then death as a result of acute alcohol poisoning," the authorities said in a statement.

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For the families and loved ones of those we lost to COVID-19, and for all those who endured 




CCTV: The G7 foreign ministers issued a communique after they held a meeting in Japan. They reaffirmed the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, and expressed concerns over the situation in the East and South China Seas and on issues related to Xinjiang and Tibet. They also urged China to ensure transparent, predictable, and fair business environments. Do you have any comment?

Wang Wenbin: Regardless of Chinas strong position and existing facts, the G7 Foreign Ministers Meeting grossly interfered in Chinas internal affairs and maliciously smeared and discredited China. The communique reflects the groups arrogance, prejudice and deliberate desire to block and contain China. We deplore and reject this and have made a strong demarche to the host Japan.

Taiwan is part of Chinas sacred territory. The one-China principle is what underpins peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. To ensure real peace in the Taiwan Strait, it is absolutely essential to unequivocally oppose and stop any act for Taiwan independence. Matters related to Hong Kong, Xinjiang and Tibet are purely Chinas internal affairs. No foreign forces may interfere in them in any way or under any pretext. The situation in the East China Sea and the South China Sea is generally stable. Relevant countries need to respect the efforts of regional countries to uphold peace and stability. They need to stop sowing discord and stop creating camp confrontation. As one of the most vibrant markets with the greatest potential, China is committed to providing a stable, fair, transparent and predictable investment and business environment for foreign investors. Certain G7 members have been oblivious to the principles of market economy and fair competition, overstretched and abused the concept of national security, and used every means possible to suppress foreign companies. They are in no position to jab fingers at China.

As a responsible major country, China firmly acts on the UN Charter and the basic principles of international law and is committed to building a community with a shared future for mankind. We once again urge G7 to reflect on their own problems and discard the Cold War mentality and ideological prejudices. They should stop running counter to the prevailing trend of todays world, stop pointing fingers condescendingly, stop grossly interfering in other countries internal affairs and stop deliberately creating antagonism and division in the international community.

Phoenix TV: We learned from an interview that after the armed conflicts in Sudan, the director and a teacher of a Confucius Institute were controlled by soldiers with guns. Now they have been rescued. What kind of protection will China provide for overseas Chinese and Chinese institutions in Sudan. Is there an evacuation plan?

Wang Wenbin: On April 15, conflicts between armed forces erupted in the capital of Sudan Khartoum and several other places, causing a grim security situation. The Chinese Foreign Ministry immediately activated the consular emergency response mechanism and instructed the Chinese Embassy in Sudan to make the utmost efforts to protect the safety and security of Chinese nationals and institutions there. The Chinese Embassy in Sudan has issued a safety notice for Chinese nationals in Sudan, got in touch with Chinese institutions in the country to verify their safety status and provide guidance for strengthening prevention against dangers, and offered help to Chinese nationals in need.

Given the current situation, our Ministry and Embassy in Sudan have reminded Chinese nationals not to travel to Sudan in the near future and asked those already in Sudan to follow closely the developments of the situation, stay inside, take extra precaution, be prepared for emergencies and register their personal information with the Embassy as soon as possible. In case of emergencies, they need to call the police at once and contact the Embassy for help.

As for your question, the moment our Embassy in Sudan learned the predicament of the two teachers from the Confucius Institute at the University of Khartoum, it took immediate action and engaged in close communication and coordination with relevant parties of Sudan. The two teachers have now returned to safety and have been transported to a relatively safe place.

Our Ministry and Embassy in Sudan will continue to follow local developments and do everything possible to protect the safety and security of Chinese nationals and institutions in Sudan.

AFP: Media reported that Chinese President Xi Jinping called Kim Jong-un on April 12. Can the foreign ministry confirm this phone call? And if so, can you offer further details on its content?

Wang Wenbin: According to what I have learned, there is no such a call.

Peoples Daily: We have learned that Assistant Foreign Minister Nong Rong will visit Singapore and Cambodia soon. Can you share more with us?

Wang Wenbin: From April 19 to 25, Assistant Foreign Minister Nong Rong will visit Singapore and Cambodia. Chinas relations with Singapore and Cambodia are in excellent shape. President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong jointly announced the decision to elevate China-Singapore relations to an all-round high-quality future-oriented partnership during the prime ministers recent visit to China. President Xi and Prime Minister Hun Sen jointly announced the decision to build a high-quality, high-level and high-standard China-Cambodia Community with a Shared Future for the new era during the prime ministers visit. Assistant Foreign Minister Nong Rongs visit is aimed at comparing notes with Singapore and Cambodia on following through on the important common understandings between the leaders, deepening strategic mutual trust, expanding mutual benefits, and working toward more outcomes in bilateral relations and cooperation in various areas.

The Paper: According to reports, Twitter CEO Elon Musk said in an interview that he was shocked to find that the US government had full access to all users private direct messages. Do you have any comment?

Wang Wenbin: We noted relevant reports. The US has long eavesdropped on the phone calls of leaders of European countries. The recent leak of US military documents also exposes the USs large-scale surveillance over its allies. For a country that doesnt even respect the privacy of the leaders of its allies, it is hardly surprising that it would monitor the users private data on social media platforms.

Without hard evidence, the US has been accusing foreign companies of monitoring and stealing US users data. What Musk said again proves the belief shared by many online that the US either has done or is doing what it accuses you of. It is increasingly clear that protecting cyber security is just a pretext the US uses to perpetuate its cyber hegemony.

China News Service: Brazilian President Lula da Silva shared his view on the Ukraine crisis during his visit to China, saying that the US needs to stop encouraging war and start talking about peace. On April 17, Coordinator for Strategic Communications at the US National Security Council John Kirby accused Brazil of parroting Russian and Chinese propaganda without looking at the facts. Whats your comment?

Wang Wenbin: As I recall, Mr. Kirby said not long ago that any call for a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine would be unacceptable. But already more and more countries are calling for an end to the fighting and working for an early political settlement of the Ukraine crisis.

As voices for peace in the international community continue to build, the US needs to meet those growing expectations and play a constructive role in bringing about the political settlement of the crisis, rather than continue to go the other way and keep adding fuel to the fire.

Xinhua News Agency: We have noted that State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang spoke over the phone with Palestinian and Israeli foreign ministers respectively yesterday. Can you share more information with us?

Wang Wenbin: Yesterday, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang spoke over the phone with Riad Malki, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of the State of Palestine, and Eli Cohen, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Israel, with a focus on exchanging views on the current Palestine-Israel situation.

State Councilor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang noted that China is concerned about the current tensions between Palestine and Israel. The urgent task at hand is to manage the situation to prevent conflicts from escalating or even spiraling out of control. Parties should stay cool-headed and exercise restraint and stop making aggressive and provocative moves. The fundamental way out is to resume peace talks and implement the two-state solution. It is never too late to do the right thing. China encourages both Palestine and Israel to show political courage and move toward the resumption of peace talks. China stands ready to provide facilitation to that end. President Xi Jinping has put forward the Global Security Initiative, and the idea of common security is what we believe to be the key to resolving the issues between Palestine and Israel. China has no selfish interests in the Palestinian question. We hope the two sides can coexist peacefully and defend regional peace and stability.

Both Palestine and Israel said that they value Chinas influence. They thanked China for its readiness to support the resolution of the Israel-Palestine conflicts and looked forward to China playing a positive role.

Bloomberg: Secretary of State Antony Blinken said at the G7 Foreign Ministers Meeting that China must make its intentions clear in ties with the US. He said he expected that China and the US would make progress. But he said, it does require China to make clear its own intentions. How do you respond to Blinkens remarks?

Wang Wenbin: China views and develops its relations with the US under the three principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation. The root cause of current tensions in China-US relations is the misconceived China policy of the US which is based on a misguided China perception. The US needs to stop interfering in Chinas internal affairs and stop harming Chinas interests. It needs to stop eroding the political foundation of bilateral ties while claiming that it wants to put guardrails on the relationship.

Kyodo News: According to reports, federal prosecutors in New York arrested two Chinese nationals yesterday. They were accused of participating in police functions in the US, which gravely violates US sovereignty. Whats your comment?

Wang Wenbin: China firmly opposes the USs slanders and smears, its political manipulation, the false narrative of transnational repression, and blatant prosecution of Chinese law enforcement and cyber administration officials. The US has long suppressed dissent through secret surveillance, illegal wiretapping, global manhunts and behind-the-scenes deals. The transnational repression is an allegation that best matches the USs own practices.

We urge the US to reflect on itself, abandon its Cold War mentality and ideological prejudice, immediately stop the erroneous moves, end political manipulation and stop the smears and attacks against China.

NHK: To follow up on the question on the police station in New York, does your answer mean that the Chinese government does not think its a problem if other countries set up posts like police stations other than embassies and consulates general in China?

Wang Wenbin: The US drew malignant association between overseas Chinese service centers and Chinese diplomatic and consular officials and made groundless accusations against China. This is clearly political manipulation. About the overseas police stations, we have made it clear many times that the allegation has no factual basis. There are simply no so-called overseas police stations. China adheres to the principle of non-interference in other countries internal affairs, strictly observes international laws and respects the judicial sovereignty of all countries. We hope relevant parties will not hype up or dramatize this.

Global Times: The G7 foreign ministers said in their communique on April 18 that they are concerned about Chinas expansion of its nuclear arsenal without arms control or risk reductions measures and urged China to engage in strategic risk reduction discussions with the US and to promote stability through greater nuclear transparency. Whats your comment?

Wang Wenbin: First let me reiterate that China is committed to a defensive nuclear strategy and a policy of no first use of nuclear weapons and keeps our nuclear capabilities at the minimum level required by national security. China is the only one among the five nuclear-weapon states to have made this pledge. For any country, as long as they do not use or threaten to use nuclear weapons against China, they dont need to worry about being threatened by Chinas nuclear weapons. This is the most meaningful transparency a country can provide. China also actively participates in multilateral arms control processes including under the cooperation mechanism of the five nuclear-weapon states, the Conference on Disarmament in Geneva, and the First Committee of the United Nations General Assembly. In disregard of these facts, the G7 attempts to manipulate narratives to mislead the public. By no means can it speak for the international community.

The G7 puts itself in the seat of the judge and makes wanton remarks on other countries strategic security and arms control policies, while constantly undermining the international nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation system. How can such a behavior win the trust of the international community? The US sits on the largest and most advanced nuclear arsenal in the world. It has withdrawn from treaties and organizations concerning arms control, follows a first-use nuclear deterrence policy, keeps upgrading its nuclear triad, strengthens and attempts to replicate nuclear-sharing arrangements, and advances forward deployment of strategic forces. The US has become the single most disruptive element and largest source of risks for international peace and security. Whats more, the US and the UK are openly transferring nuclear-powered submarine reactors and weapons-grade highly enriched uranium to Australia, which constitutes grave nuclear proliferation risks and contravenes the object and purpose of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT).

I would like to stress that Japan, which holds the G7 rotating presidency, has taken a very hypocritical policy stance in the field of arms control. Japan has long characterized itself as a victim of nuclear explosions and an advocate of a nuclear-weapons-free world. But in fact, Japan sits comfortably under the USs nuclear umbrella, and it is against and hindering the USs renouncing of the first use of nuclear weapons. Some Japanese politicians even suggest the possibility of nuclear sharing with the US. Besides, the Japanese government has ignored the international public interest by pushing ahead with the discharge of nuclear-contaminated water from Fukushima into the ocean. This move has imposed the unpredictable risk of nuclear contamination on people around the world.

We once again urge the G7 to stop maligning and slandering other countries and stop inciting antagonism and confrontation. They need to reflect on their own strategic security policies, earnestly fulfill relevant international arms control obligations, and shoulder their due responsibilities for world peace and security.

AFP: A Chinese supervisor at a dam construction project in Pakistan is currently being held in police protection after workers accused him of blasphemy against Islam. Has the Chinese side been in contact with this individual and are they working to achieve his release?

Wang Wenbin: The Chinese Embassy in Pakistan is verifying the information. The Chinese government always asks Chinese nationals overseas to abide by laws and regulations of the host countries and respect local customs and traditions. If the incident involves Chinese nationals, our Embassy will provide consular protection and assistance within the purview of its duty.

Bloomberg: Afghan Taliban-controlled media reported that a Chinese company that they refer to as Gochin is planning to invest some $10 billion in the countrys lithium reserves. They also say that Chinese representatives have met and talked with the Talibans minister of mines and a deputy prime minister. Can you confirm these reports and do you have any other details?

Wang Wenbin: China supports Chinese companies in cooperating with Afghanistan in line with market principles, and playing a constructive role in helping Afghanistan rebuild its economy and achieve self-generated and sustained development. As to the specific project you mentioned, I do not have information about it.

Bloomberg: Taiwan plans to buy as many as 400 US-made land-launched Harpoon missiles that are intended to repel any Chinese invasion. How does the foreign ministry respond to that?

Wang Wenbin: US military contact with Taiwan and its arms sales to the region seriously violate the one-China principle and the stipulations of the three China-US joint communiques, especially the August 17 Communique. The move will harm Chinas sovereignty and security interests and threaten peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. We deplore and firmly oppose them. What has happened proves that the root cause of the new round of tensions in the Taiwan Strait is the Taiwan authorities repeated attempt to solicit US support for Taiwan independence, the fact that some in the US intend to use Taiwan to contain China, and their joint attempt to change the status quo in the Taiwan Strait. This is an extremely dangerous trajectory no different from playing with fire. We urge the US to earnestly abide by the one-China principle and the stipulations of the three China-US joint communiques, stop having military contact with and selling arms to Taiwan, stop creating factors that could cause tensions in the Taiwan Strait, stop seeking to change the status quo, and avoid going further down the wrong path of colluding with the Taiwan authorities. The Chinese side will take strong and resolute measures to firmly defend our sovereignty and security interests.

Bloomberg: The Netherlands spy agency said that Russia and China pose the greatest threat to the national security of that European nation. How does the foreign ministry respond to that?

Wang Wenbin: Weve always asked Chinese companies and academic institutions to abide by international rules and local laws and regulations in their cooperation with other countries. It is irresponsible for relevant Dutch authorities to frame such mutually beneficial cooperation as an issue about security. This could sour the atmosphere for bilateral cooperation and does not serve the interest of the Netherlands. We hope the Netherlands will abandon the Cold War mentality, stop creating hypothetical pretexts to smear Chinese companies, academic institutions and their personnel, and be open-minded, rational and objective about having normal economic and academic cooperation with China.
Marty Hotel Bordeaux, Tapestry Collection by Hilton opens to guests today in the Meriadeck business district. With its unique industrial style, the vibrant hotel is designed to be an inspiring, creative, and lively setting to immerse travelers and locals alike with the neighborhood. The debut of Marty Hotel Bordeaux marks significant growth of Tapestry Collection in the region as the brand's third European property to debut in 2023.

"Now more than ever, travelers are searching for unique experiences and distinctive hotels that enhance their stay," said Matt Schuyler, chief brand officer, Hilton. "Today, we welcome Marty Hotel Bordeaux, Tapestry Collection by Hilton to our expanding portfolio in France. This hotel will authentically connect guests to the culture and charm of the area and is an exciting addition to our growing collection of Lifestyle properties in France."

The hotel boasts a large bar topped with an avalanche of chandeliers which serves as the central hub within the hotel lobby, and is decorated in a fusion of classical wood, steel and concrete industrial features interspersed with bright colors, vintage furniture, and multi-textured fabrics. Sixty-one stripped-back guest rooms, many with terraces and balconies, provide a cozy atmosphere featuring stocked bookcases, wooden panels, industrial lighting, and a variety of textures.

From dawn to dusk, Marty serves cuisine that is firmly rooted in the Bordeaux terroir. A delicious buffet stocked with fine, fresh products is available in the early morning, while guests can celebrate the end of a workday with dishes centering around local products made by artisan partners Bouche and La Cave a Titoune.

"Marty is so much more than an ordinary hotel: it's a new urban hotel in Bordeaux that inspires guests to explore the local culture. It's a haven for creative types, where artsy bedrooms and a trendy bar - not to mention a whole host of works of art - converge and interact with each other," said Aurelie Jadelus, general manager. "The name MARTY is derived from a combination of the letter "M" of the Meriadeck district and the "arty" concept, highlighting the vital role that art plays in the venue. This new hotel is a genuine incubator, halfway between an art gallery and a living space."

Recently acquired by Vicartem in partnership with Extendam, Marty will be operated by the Younight Hospitality hotel management company.

Marty Hotel Bordeaux, Tapestry Collection by Hilton is located at 153 rue Georges Bonnac, Bordeaux, France, within walking distance of the Hotel de Ville, Tour Pey-Berland and Cathedrale-Primatiale Saint-Andre, and minutes from the Grand Theatre and Saint-Jean train station.

Marty Hotel Bordeaux, Tapestry Collection by Hilton is part of Hilton Honors, the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton's 19 distinct hotel brands. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of points and money to book a stay, an exclusive member discount that can't be found anywhere else and free standard Wi-Fi. Members also have access to contactless technology exclusively through the industry-leading Hilton Honors mobile app, where Hilton Honors members can check-in, choose their room, and access their room using a Digital Key.For more information about Tapestry Collection by Hilton, visit stories.hilton.com.

Hotel website
Florida hotelier Bharat Patel, CHO, CHIA, is the new Chairman of AAHOA's Board of Directors. Patel became chairman at the conclusion of the 2023 AAHOA Convention & Trade Show in Los Angeles, Ca., which set a record level of booth sales for the Trade Show, making it the largest in AAHOA history.

Patel has been an active member of AAHOA since 2008. He served as an Ambassador for several years before his election to the Board of Directors as the Regional Director for Florida in 2015.

Bharat is a second-generation hotelier who learned the hotel business through hands-on experience at properties owned by his parents. Today, he is Partner at Gulf Coast Hospitality, a company based in Sarasota, Fla.

From a young age, I wanted to make a difference, which is why I wanted to join AAHOA," Patel said. "AAHOA Leadership meets with legislators at the highest levels of government, and we're doing so while simultaneously showing the industry, and beyond, that representation matters."

Bharat plays an active role in his community and previously served on the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association Board of Directors, the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation Hotel and Restaurant Advisory Council, the Sarasota County Tourism Development Council, and the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office Advisory Board.

Patel is a graduate of the University of Florida and resides in Sarasota with his wife, Manisha, and their two children.
Commonwealth Hotels announced today that Heather Weatherford has been appointed the director of sales and marketing of the Aloft Knoxville West. Ms. Weatherford brings over 10 years of hospitality experience to her new role as director of sales and marketing, having previously served as the business development representative for Coyote Logistics.

An experienced leader in both sales and operations, Ms. Weatherford built her career by building client relationships and enhancing the guest experience. Prior to joining the Aloft Knoxville West, Weatherford served in various leadership roles with the Hampton by Hilton in Dearborn, Michigan, The Hampton by Hilton in Northville, Michigan, and the Comfort Inn, in Plymouth, Michigan. Ms. Weatherford holds a master's degree in culture and a bachelor's degree in business administration from Cleary University in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Perry Lane Hotel, located in Savannah's historic downtown, announced today the appointment of Aaron Baxendale as Director of Food and Beverage. Known for its world-class accommodations, southern hospitality and culinary excellence, the quintessential Savannah hotel is pleased to welcome Baxendale to the executive team leading the charge and overseeing the operations of all food and beverage outlets.

With 20 years of hospitality experience, Baxendale has an extensive roster of food and beverage leadership experience working for luxury hotels and resorts across the U.S. He brings his vast expertise to his role of Director of Food and Beverage of Perry Lane, most recently holding roles as Director of Food and Beverage at the acclaimed Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, HI, and Director of Food and Beverage of W Hotel-Midtown, Atlanta, Georgia. Additionally, he has experience as Executive Sous Chef of The Ritz-Carlton Bachelors Gulch in Colorado, Chef de Cuisine of The Ritz-Carlton, Reynolds Lake Oconee, experience at The Greenbrier Resort, and more.

At Perry Lane Hotel, he will be responsible for the successful operation of signature restaurant Emporium Kitchen; premier rooftop bar and lounge, Peregrin; eclectic cocktail bar, The Wayward; and Bowerbird Coffee.

A driven leader, Baxendale is dedicated to bringing his attention to the guests' experience to the forefront of his role, a staple in the hospitality business. In addition to overseeing operations, Baxendale will be accountable for managing financial activities for all food and beverage outlets including budgeting and forecasts, developing relationships with vendors, purchasing, developing and training staff, and fostering an unparalleled level of quality service.
EXTENDAM acquires the future Maison ELLE Amsterdam

French investor EXTENDAM has acquired the 31-room, four-star Park 6 Hotel in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, centrally-located on the edge of Vondelpark and close to the museum quarter. The property is to be converted into the Maison ELLE Amsterdam, due for completion by August 2023. Dutch hotel group Black Label Hospitality, founded in 2019, will operate the property. Debt finance has been provided by Dutch bank ABN Amro. This hotel marks the second for the Parisian Maison ELLE brand, with the first having opened in September 2022 in Pariss 17th arrondissement. The ELLE hospitality concept was created in a collaboration between Studio V, a subsidiary of Valencia-founded family hospitality group Valotel, and the French Lagardere group, owner of ELLE magazine. Black Label Hospitality currently operates four other hotels in the south of the Netherlands, including franchises with Hilton and Accor.

Audacia sells its minority stake in Le Damantin Paris Hotel & Spa to its founders

French private equity firm Audacia has sold its entire minority stake in the five-star 44-room Le Damantin Paris Hotel & Spa, through its Constellation II fund, to the hotels founders Anne Foucher and Angel Mari. The luxury hotel opened in February 2019 and is located in Pariss 8th arrondissement opposite the river Seine, in close proximity to Avenue Montaigne and the Champs Elysees. The Constellation II fund was launched in 2018 by Audacia, who had helped to support the creation of the hotel with an initial fund launched in December 2016. Sitting within a converted 19th-century mansion house, the hotel project was conceptualised by owners Anne Foucher and Angel Mari.

Galliard and OShea acquire the Raithwaite Sandsend in Yorkshire, UK, from Maritime

A JV between UK-based property developers Galliard Homes and OShea Group has acquired the four-star 73-room Raithwaite Sandsend hotel in the seaside town of Whitby, North Yorkshire, UK, off a guide price of 12 million (164,000 per room) from Maritime Capital. The 85-acre site has approved planning permission for a 30-room extension on the main building, as well as 190 holiday cottages, apartments, lodges and villas. Additionally, there is set to be a village square that will feature a variety of local retailers. There are currently spa facilities, a newly-opened Crab Shack and an in-house restaurant on the premises. UK-based wealth management company Maritime Capital acquired the asset in 2019.

Premier Inn acquires the Mercure Hotel Heilbronn in Germany from Investhotel

Premier Inn has acquired the four-star 136-room Mercure Hotel Heilbronn located in the centre of Heilbronn, Germany, north of Stuttgart, from Investhotel. The deal is due to complete by the end of April, after which the hotel, constructed in 2014, is set to be renovated through to the end of summer 2023, including increasing the room count to 140 and incorporating Premier Inn standards. The hotel will continue to be operated as a Mercure until renovation works commence. There are currently 46 Premier Inn hotels across Germany.

SOHOMA acquires the Best Western Hotel International in Annecy, France

French hotel group SOHOMA (Solanet Hospitality Management) has acquired the three-star 133-room Best Western Hotel International  Annecy, situated in the north of the French Alps some 40 kms south of Geneva. The property includes a restaurant, bar and spa. Founded by Jean Solanet nearly 40 years ago, SOHOMA currently manages 70 hotels (5,400 rooms) across France, including both franchised properties (Louvre Hotels, Accor, Marriott, Hilton and IHG) and independent hotels, including under the Orso brand.

Whiterock acquires future B&B Hotel Onnaing in France from Duval

French real estate group Whiterock has acquired the future 75-room B&B Hotel in Onnaing, northern France, from French family real estate office Groupe Duval. Located in the outskirts of Valenciennes, on a major road that connects Paris and Brussels, the hotel will be leased on a long term basis to B&B Hotels, a French third-party operator with over 700 hotels worldwide, half of which are in France. Whiterock specialises in sale-and-leaseback operations of which this is the fourth B&B Hotel lease for the group.

About HVS

HVS is the world's leading consulting and valuation services organization focused on the hotel, restaurant, shared ownership, gaming, and leisure industries. Established in 1980, the company performs more than 4,500 assignments per year for virtually every major industry participant. HVS principals are regarded as the leading professionals in their respective regions of the globe. Through a worldwide network of over 50 offices staffed by 300 experienced industry professionals, HVS provides an unparalleled range of complementary services for the hospitality industry. For further information regarding our expertise and specifics about our services, please visit www.hvs.com.
The LIV Hospitality Design Awards celebrated the winners of the 2020  2021 and 2022 editions at an exclusive ceremony held on the 14th of April 2023 in Budapest, Hungary. The event was a momentous occasion to recognize and honor the exceptional achievements of hospitality design professionals from all corners of the world. The stunning Four Seasons Gresham Palace, known for its rich cultural heritage and Art Nouveau architecture, provided the perfect backdrop with its luxurious blend of Hungarian and European design elements, opulent interiors, and breathtaking stained glass windows.

The ceremony was presided over by Astrid Hebert and Hossein Farmani, co-founders of the LIV Hospitality Design Awards. The winners were presented with their trophies to resounding applause from the guests, as they took the stage to bask in the recognition of their achievements. Adding to the prestige of the occasion were Monika Moser and Tarek Hegazy, distinguished jury members of the LIV Awards, who invited winners to the stage to receive their well-deserved recognition. Monika Moser, Chief Operating Office of Campbell House is a "hotelier at heart," with over 25 years of operational hospitality industry experience, bringing a unique cultural perspective and a deep understanding of luxury hotel service to the event. Tarek Hegazy, with his long and illustrious career spanning over 33 years, and as the CEO and Creative Director of Living Design, one of the leading Interior Design studios in Europe and Scandinavia, brought a wealth of expertise to the panel.

Astrid Hebert commented on the significance of the awards: "The LIV Hospitality Design Awards ceremony was an extraordinary gathering of the most talented and creative designers in the industry. The atmosphere was electric, and it was inspiring to see such a high level of innovation and artistry on display. The event brought together an incredible mix of designers, architects, and industry professionals, and I would like to express my gratitude to everyone who attended and made it such a memorable occasion."

The evening celebration featured presentations of the "Design of the Year" winning projects, followed by a cocktail reception, where attendees had the opportunity to meet the winners, jury members, press representatives, and the organizing team. It provided an ideal setting for guests to network and build new professional connections, cementing the awards' status as a premier platform for the hospitality design industry. The event was attended by industry leaders, including Pure Design Studio, winners of the title of Architectural Design of the Year 2022, an Architecture Office firm centered around Hospitality Architecture - YOD Group from Kyiv, Ukraine, talented designers from COR London Studio, Scott Whittaker, Group Creative Director and chair of DWP's design council, Mansoor Al Harbi, Emerging Architect of the Year 2022, and many more.

Bringing together over 120 talented architects and designers from around the globe, the LIV Hospitality Design Awards ceremony was a truly international affair, with participants hailing from 22 countries including the USA, Japan, China, Hong Kong, Ukraine, Laos, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, Brazil, Spain, France, United Kingdom, Austria, and Vietnam, among others. The LIV Hospitality Design Awards ceremony was a resounding success, celebrating the exceptional achievements of the winners and showcasing the excellence of the hospitality industry. The event left attendees feeling inspired and excited about the future of design, and it was a testament to the power of creativity and innovation in shaping the world around us. For more information on how to enter, please visit livawards.com.

About the LIV Hospitality Design Awards:

LIV Hospitality Design Awards recognize excellence in hospitality architecture, interior design, and guest experiences on a global scale. The mission of the LIV Hospitality Design Awards is to celebrate the quality and diversity of architectural ventures and interior design projects shaping the worldwide hospitality industry today. The program was launched in 2020 and is an inclusive platform, that pursues and rewards exceptional projects within LIVING and EATING spaces. LIV Awards is a sibling program of the LIT Lighting Design Award (LIT), SIT Furniture Design Award (SIT), and The BLT Built Design Awards, all focusing on Architecture, Interior Design and Lighting, which have emerged as some of the most well-known Design Prize today.

LIV Hospitality Design Awards is a program under the 3C Awards, a leading organization curating and promoting design across the globe. The company represents today's diversity and innovation in Lighting Design, Furniture Design, Sport Design, Interior Design, and Architecture. Each brand is a symbol of design excellence around the world, showcasing Professional and Emerging designers' work to over 100 expert jury members. 3C Awards is owned by Three C Group GmbH, a Swiss-registered company.

Astrid Hebert

Program Director

LIV Hospitality Design Awards

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Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) today announces plans for Hyatt Studios, the newest addition to Hyatts portfolio of brands. The brand, which marks Hyatts entry into upper-midscale lodging in the Americas, was conceived through direct collaboration with hotel developers and listening closely to the needs of target guests. The announcement is supported by signed letters of interest in development agreements from multiple developers for more than 100 Hyatt Studios hotels, with construction expected to begin in 2023 and the first hotel expected to open in 2024.

The immediate interest from the development community in the Hyatt Studios brand is a testament to Hyatt taking a developer-informed approach to creating this brand, prioritizing scalable construction options and an efficient operating model designed to adapt to local market needs across primary, secondary and tertiary markets alike. The brand is designed to be flexible based on developer needs, accommodating both extended-stay and shorter length-of-stay leisure and business transient guests depending on the hotels market and guest base.

We are proud to launch the Hyatt Studios brand and bring the high-quality experience and level of care promised by the Hyatt brand to smaller markets and submarkets where we dont have Hyatt hotels, said Jim Chu, chief growth officer, Hyatt. We identified a white space for Hyatt, creating a compelling opportunity to significantly accelerate our industry-leading net rooms growth, care for World of Hyatt members on more stay occasions and introduce World of Hyatt to new guests in a new segment which we expect will drive increased direct bookings for all properties across the Hyatt portfolio.

The Hyatt Studios brand will join the Hyatt Place, Hyatt House and Caption by Hyatt brands in the select service category, offering Hyatts signature guest experience with self-serve amenities and in-room offerings. Extended-stay guests can expect everything they need to feel comfortable and live their full lives when away from home, while enjoying the consistent Hyatt quality they expect.

Guestrooms will marry form with function and offer suites with kitchen amenities to provide comfort during extended trips away from home. The Hyatt Studios food and beverage experience will include a complimentary grab-and-go breakfast and a best-in-class, 24-hour market with a wide variety of options to satisfy extended-stay guests  from health-conscious snacks and ready-made meals to sweet and savory staples to fulfill travel cravings, all of which can be prepared and enjoyed in the guestrooms kitchen featuring a multi-function convection microwave.

As with all brands in the Hyatt portfolio, Hyatt Studios hotels will appeal to the high-end guest within its segment, said Amy Weinberg, senior vice president, loyalty, brand marketing & consumer insights. Amidst a sea of interchangeable extended-stay competitors, Hyatt Studios hotels will transcend dated notions of value-driven compromise by inviting guests to enjoy both the coziness of a studio apartment and the positive energy of being in a creative studio, all with the quality and contemporary style that is characteristic of Hyatt.

Hyatt Studios will be led by industry veteran Dan Hansen, who has served as strategic advisor throughout the brands conception.

About Hyatt Hotels Corporation

Hyatt Hotels Corporation, headquartered in Chicago, is a leading global hospitality company guided by its purpose  to care for people so they can be their best. As of June 30, 2022, the Company's portfolio included more than 1,150 hotels and all-inclusive properties in 72 countries across six continents. The Company's offering includes brands in the Timeless Collection, including Park Hyatt, Grand Hyatt, Hyatt Regency, Hyatt, Hyatt Residence Club, Hyatt Place, Hyatt House, and UrCove; the Boundless Collection, including Miraval, Alila, Andaz, Thompson Hotels, Hyatt Centric, and Caption by Hyatt; the Independent Collection, including The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, Destination by Hyatt, and JdV by Hyatt; and the Inclusive Collection, including Hyatt Ziva, Hyatt Zilara, Zoetry Wellness & Spa Resorts, Secrets Resorts & Spas, Breathless Resorts & Spas, Dreams Resorts & Spas, Vivid Hotels & Resorts, Alua Hotels & Resorts, and Sunscape Resorts & Spas. Subsidiaries of the Company operate the World of Hyatt loyalty program, ALG Vacations, Unlimited Vacation Club, Amstar DMC destination management services, and Trisept Solutions technology services. For more information, please visit www.hyatt.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Forward-Looking Statements in this press release, which are not historical facts, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by the use of words such as "may," "could," "expect," "intend," "plan," "seek," "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "predict," "potential," "continue," "likely," "will," "would" and variations of these terms and similar expressions, or the negative of these terms or similar expressions. Such forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable when made, are inherently uncertain, and are subject to numerous assumptions and uncertainties, many of which are outside of Kiraku, Inc. or Hyatt's control, which could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by such statements. Forward-looking statements made in this press release are made only as of the date of their initial publication and neither party undertakes an obligation to publicly update any of these forward-looking statements as actual events unfold, except to the extent required by applicable law. If one or more forward-looking statements is updated, no inference should be drawn that any additional updates will be made with respect to those or other forward-looking statements.
British filmmaker Guy Ritchie usually approaches his action films with a smirk and a smile. After all, he's the director who gave us such tongue-in-cheek exercises as "Snatch," "Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels," "The Gentlemen," "The Man from U.N.C.L.E." and "Sherlock Holmes" reboots as well as, most recently, a title few saw, "Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre."

But he plays it as straight as a ruler in "Guy Ritchie's The Covenant," a self-serious, suspenseful and action-enhanced war movie that's light on the smart-mouthed banter and heavy on the dust, heat and death of the War in Afghanistan. It's a salute to not only the U.S. soldiers who fought but, more pointedly, their Afghan interpreters who were totally ride-or-die (often literally) but then found themselves left behind when the U.S. pulled out in 2021, despite promises of American visas for them and their families.

'BEAU IS AFRAID': Three-hour film starring Joaquin Phoenix is too much of a good, disturbing thing.

Jake Gyllenhaal is Sergeant John Kinley, a man who has the dangerous task of leading his team into the deserts of Afghanistan in the search of The Taliban's clandestine facilities where IEDs (improvised explosive devices) are manufactured. After a deadly ambush in which he loses an interpreter, Kinley takes a chance on grim, quiet Ahmed (excellent Iraqi-Danish actor Dar Salim, "A Hijacking," "Game of Thrones"), even though he's warned that this guy could be a loose cannon.

'Guy Ritchie's The Covenant' Rated R: For violence, language throughout and brief drug content Running time: 123 minutes Where: Opens April 21 throughout Houston 1/2 (out of 5) See More Collapse

Almost immediately, Ahmed proves his worth and the two develop the kind of trust that they're going to need when it's just the two of them stranded far away from their base. This all leads to the film's centerpiece sequence of brutal but angelic heroism that will probably have audiences scratching their heads and heading to Google to ask, "Did that really happen?"

As it turns out, "Guy Ritchie's The Covenant" isn't based on any one event but on the many stories of heroic interpreters so, no doubt, it's more about the spirit of the moment rather than the granular, realistic details. (Speaking of details, John and Ahmed have an almost John Wick-level of lethal accuracy while the enemy soldiers seem as if they never read their copies of "Marksmanship for Dummies.")

Written by Ritchie along with Ivan Atkinson and Marn Davies and directed by Ritchie with breathless, propulsive momentum, "Guy Ritchie's The Covenant" is really about two wars. There's the one in the battlefield and the other one at home when some soldiers went to great lengths to bring their abandoned interpreters to the U.S.

Gyllenhaal is predictably convincing as the no-nonsense sergeant with a wife and two kids at home in L.A. that he wants to get back to but it's Salim who so effectively plays a man with a shadowy past and potentially bleak future who also has a family he wants to see again. Salim has been steadily building a career, at first in Denmark and then Hollywood, for the last two decades but "Guy Ritchie's The Covenant" may give his profile the boost it deserves.

And major kudos to Ritchie for casting Australian actor Antony Starr -- best-known as fascist caped crusader Homelander in the hit series "The Boys" -- in a small but pivotal role.

"Guy Ritchie's The Covenant" is far from the best film based on soldiers' experiences in the Afghanistan or Iraq wars -- "The Hurt Locker," "The Outpost" and the documentary "Restrepo" are more wrenching -- but it's a worthy, watchable addition to the catalog.

And, now, Ritchie, whose next project is a TV series based on "The Gentlemen," can get back to what he's used to.
Lyric Market opened to the public in October as Houstons shiny new player in downtowns crowded food hall playing field. But the multi-vendor food hall at Lyric Tower, 411 Smith, is just now ready to show off its culinary muscle.

On Saturday, April 22, Lyric Market will hold a grand opening celebration from noon to 3 p.m. with live music, vendor sampling, a crawfish boil, and activities for children. Its also an opportunity for Lyric to introduce several new concepts within its vendor portfolio.

There have been changes at the food hall since it opened in the fall. Several original vendors (Alenbi Falafel + Hummus, Bad Chx, Mission Burger, and Lotties Smokehouse) have departed and been replaced by new concepts. Also, Hospitality HQ, a consulting group that originally managed Lyric Market, is out.

BIG DIPPER: Where to find the Houston area's best chile con queso dips

So whats new at Lyric? Four new concepts have joined the lineup that includes original vendors 1929 Po-Boy Kitchen, Horu Sushi, Kati Roll Wala, Mexology, Press Waffle Co., and Rhapsody Bar. They are: Mamas Texas Smokehouse (serving Texas barbecue sandwiches, plates, and other barbecue dishes); Francis' Cafe (from the same owner of Mamas Texas Smokehouse, serving an all-day cafe menu of sandwiches, salads, and soups), Cafe JuJu (plant-based comfort foods and cold-pressed juices); and Starbucks, a new satellite location inside Press Waffle Co.

We take pride in working with up-and-coming restaurateurs at Lyric Market, and we are excited to bring these new concepts into our food hall, said Lyric Market general manager Nick Vroulis. In addition to our current vendor roster, These new concepts will allow both locals and visitors alike to experience the best of the Houston food scene in one visit, from Texas barbecue and vegan comfort food to Indian street food, sushi and Belgian waffles.

Saturdays grand opening ceremony also will be the first public viewing of Lyrics second floor terrace area, a space that can be used for private events, pop-ups, cooking classes, and other community activations.

Lyric Market is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner  Monday through Thursday 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday 10 am. to 9 p.m. With ample public parking, Lyric offers two-hour validated parking with a food hall purchase.

Greg Morago writes about food for the Houston Chronicle. Follow him on Facebook or Twitter. Send him news tips at greg.morago@chron.com. Hear him on our BBQ State of Mind podcast to learn about Houston and Texas barbecue culture.
Don Winslow is one of the most accomplished crime novelists of his or any era. He cranks out bestsellers, including his gritty cartel trilogy (The Power of the Dog, The Cartel and The Border), and a new trilogy in progress, the second leg of which, City of Dreams, brings him to Murder By The Book on April 21.

The trilogy, modeled on Homers Iliad, tells the story of a war between Irish and Italian crime families in Winslows native Rhode Island. It is peak Winslow: funny, brutal, smart and written at a breakneck narrative pace. The first book, City on Fire, has already been slated as a movie starring Austin Butler, who earned an Oscar nomination playing the title role in Elvis.

But Winslow insists the upcoming third book in the trilogy, City in Ruins (already written, due out next year), will be his last act of fiction. At 69, he wants to turn his full attention to political activism, including more of the anti-Trump videos he has made with the filmmaker Shane Salerno (also Winslows literary agent). With collaborators including Bruce Springsteen and Jeff Daniels, the videos drew millions of online views in the runup to the 2020 presidential election. And they helped convince Winslow that some things are more important to him than writing novels.

I think I've told the stories I want to tell, he says in a video interview from his home outside San Diego, floor-to-ceiling bookshelves in the background. I don't want to be publishing books just for the sake of publishing books. There's just a lot going on right now that I think requires more immediate responses than a novel could offer.

If this truly is the end, Winslow, who divides his time between California and Rhode Island, is going out with a cross-country bang. City of Dreams follows the further adventures of Danny Ryan, a reluctant Irish gangster on the lam from the Italians and the feds after a series of disasters, including a massive heroin deal gone awry. With his young son and ailing, drunken father in tow, he heads west, eventually landing in Los Angeles, where, as it turns out, a movie about the battle of Rhode Island is in production.

Danny ends up falling for a tragic movie star, which doesnt help his efforts to keep a low profile. And Winslow, who has had his share of swims with Hollywood sharks (including the Oliver Stone-directed adaptation of the novel Savages and other projects in various stages of production and development), gets to have a little fun at the industrys expense. The whims and egos of directors, producers, studio heads and stars do not go unscathed.

I've done a few laps in that pool, Winslow says. Ive had some things made, had some things not made. I've been in those meetings, and I've been on those sets. So I was definitely having fun with it, no question. Theres probably a little payback in there somewhere. I was always amused by these studio execs who may have made a mob film and then they think they're tough guys. They think that they're mobsters, and they're not. It was fun to poke a little fun at that.

Author appearance What: Murder By the Book presents Don Winslow, discussing his novel City of Dreams. When: 6:30 p.m. April 21 Where: Murder By The Book, 2342 Bissonnet, murderbooks.com See More Collapse

(Jane Campion's film "The Power of the Dog is not based on his crime novel of the same name.)

If Winslow does walk away from writing, it will merely be the latest in a lifelong series of detours, departures and adventures. He studied African history and military history at the University of Nebraska, with the intention of joining the State Department as an expert on African military affairs. But he wasnt onboard with the Reagan administrations international policies, so he joined a photographic safari company and spent the next few years chasing leopards around, which was fun.

He also did a stint as a private investigator in New York, working Times Square before Mickey Mouse took over. It was crack vials and sex workers and porn theaters.

He chalked it all up to life experience. Nobody stamps your papers to be a writer, he says. It's not like being a doctor or a lawyer. So I had a living wherever I could, and I was trying to make it doing stuff I enjoyed and stuff that was interesting. Eventually, he broke through with his first novel, A Cool Breeze on the Underground, in 1991.

In addition to the City on Fire movie, an FX series based on The Border is slated to shoot this year, and Matt Damon is attached to star in a film adaptation of Winslows 2017 novel The Force, about a corrupt New York police detective. Winslow may soon be everywhere  just in time for him to move on to the next thing. At least for the time being.

Never say never, he says. Im old enough to know that.






Houston artist Reginald Adams, who unveiled the "Absolute Equity" mural in Galveston to commemorate Juneteenth in 2021, is now participating on a six-city tour honoring the national holiday.

Adams is joining the Absolute Equality Public Arts Initiative, sponsored by Capital One, which will feature muralists and artists in Chicago, Dallas, Detroit, Houston, Miami and Philadelphia who will honor Juneteenth with murals all unveiled on June 19, 2023.
ATLANTA (AP)  A Georgia sheriff on Monday announced the resignations of top jail staff amid an investigation into the death of a man in a bedbug-infested cell in the jail's psychiatric wing.

Fulton County Sheriff Pat Labat said in a news release that the three members of his executive team had more than 65 years of collective experience in law enforcement and running a jail. That kind of experience can be invaluable but can also cause complacency, stagnation & settling for the status quo, the release said.

Its clear to me that its time, past time, to clean house, Labat said, adding that he decided changes were necessary after reviewing preliminary evidence in the internal investigation into the September death of Lashawn Thompson, 35.

Photos from Thompsons filthy cell spread across social media last week and prompted widespread outrage, including from the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center, which tweeted, the word inhumane doesnt suffice in describing the way #LashawnThompsons life was disregarded and degraded in a Fulton County jail.

At a meeting over the weekend, Labat asked for and received the resignations of the chief jailer, assistant chief jailer and assistant chief jailer in the criminal investigative division, the release said.

A lawyer for Thompson's family last week said jail staff did nothing to address Thompson's deteriorating health in the weeks before his death, and he called for a criminal investigation. Thompson was arrested June 12 on a misdemeanor battery charge and was booked into the Fulton County Jail in Atlanta, where he died three months later.

Attorney Michael Harper called the conditions at the jail deplorable, holding up photos of a dirty, trash-strewn cell that he said was not fit for a diseased animal. Photos released by Harper show Thompson's body covered in bugs. The medical examiner's report lists the cause of death as undetermined but notes a severe bed bug infestation.

Nationally known civil rights and personal injury attorney Ben Crump announced Monday that he had been hired to join Harper in representing Thompson's family.

It is completely unacceptable to force inmates to live in appalling conditions where they are subjected to insects, grime, and infections. No one should be treated that way. Lashawn and his family deserve full justice for this inhumane treatment," Crump said in a news release.

The investigations into Thompsons death  an internal investigation and one by the Atlanta Police Department, which responded after Thompson died  are still underway, the release said. Once theyre done, the results will be turned over to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation for review.

The final investigative report will not ease the familys grief or bring their loved one back, but it is my hope and expectation that it provides a full, accurate and transparent account of the facts surrounding Mr. Thompsons death so that it provides all of the answers they are seeking and deserve, Labat said.

In addition to staffing changes, the sheriff's office said it is reviewing legal options to change medical vendors, looking to contract with a provider that can effectively, consistently and compassionately deliver the best standard of care.

The sheriff's office said it also spent $500,000 on emergency measures in September to address the infestation of bed bugs, lice and other vermin." Additionally, 673 detainees are currently housed in other jails at an average cost of $47,000 a day, and the sheriff's office continues to try to transfer other detainees out of the jail to further ease crowding, the release said.
On Scene Media

Two people were killed and at least two others were injured late Monday when several mobile homes caught fire in northeast Harris County, officials said.

Firefighters around 11:45 p.m. responded to a fire in the 8800 block of Furray Avenue, Brandi Dumas, spokesperson for the county fire marshals office, told On Scene reporters. They found three trailers aflame.
A wild gunbattle erupted on Gray Street in Midtown Monday evening, leaving three people hurt and one of two suspected gunmen dead, Houston police said.

Hours after the shootings, Houston Police Department investigators were still looking for one gunman and trying to sort out what exactly happened earlier in the evening.

Police said the gunfight, which began just before 6 p.m., started with the targeted shooting of one man and was followed almost immediately by a second shooter taking revenge and firing upon the initial gunman, killing him.

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In the end, two innocent bystanders were injured in the shootings, police said.

The man identified as the gunman in the first shooting was believed to have been killed, police said. The person who shot him fled the scene before officers arrived.

Crime scene tape surrounded two blocks of Gray between San Jacinto and Main as investigators tried to piece together what was described as "complicated" events. Two hours after the shooting, a mans body was still lying under a white sheet in the middle of Gray near the Greyhound bus station.

None of the victims were named Monday night. HPD commander Caroleta Johnson said the three injured people were all in stable condition.

The havoc started with one man approaching another and saying out loud, Do you remember me? before opening fire, Johnson said. That gunman struck two people, a person that police believe was his intended victim and a bystander, Johnson said.

As the gunman ran west on Gray, he was pursued by a second gunman, who came out from behind a Louisiana Fried Chicken restaurant and started firing, Johnson said. The two exchanged fire and the first shooter was fatally wounded.

During that exchange, a bullet hit a rideshare driver who was taking cover at Gray and Main, she said.

Police are working on the assumption that the second gunman knew the person targeted by the first shooter, Johnson said.

We can only assume at this time, she said. We have not been able to confirm that.

The surviving gunman was described as tall and slender, probably between 25 and 35 years old, Johnson said. He was believed to have fled in a red Hyundai.

Homicide investigators were gathering surveillance video from the area to gather more information, Johnson said.

Anyone with information about the shooting is urged to call investigators at 713-308-3600.

We need to be able to piece together the rest of the information, Johnson said. We know that there were others involved. They perhaps did or did not commit a crime, but we really need them to contact homicide [detectives], because we really do need to talk to them.
Jay R. Jordan / Jay Jordan, Staff

A man who was accused of leading police on a chase through parts of Houston while holding a teenager in the car against his will Sunday was also a suspect in a murder investigation in North Texas, according to court documents.

Spencer Orlando Gilbert, 19, of Godley, was arrested Sunday after crashing a car into pole in the 5400 block of Richmond. Before the crash, police had been called to the 2000 block of Southmore to a report of a possible kidnapping. Police tracked the vehicle where the call came from to the intersection of Alabama and Sage, near the Galleria. As officers approached the car, it drove off and eventually crashed.
Metro Video Services

A man was shot in the lower back Monday night in a strip mall parking lot, according to Houston Police Department officials.

The man was taken to a hospital where his condition was stabilized as of Monday night, Lt. J.P. Horelica told Metro Video Services.
Police Tuesday said they were looking to question a man over a Monday gunfight in Midtown that left one man dead and three others wounded.

The Houston Police Department released a photo of a Black man wearing a red bandana on his head, a white hooded Aeropostale sweatshirt, dark colored pants and white sneakers. Police said the man was a person of interest in the shooting and asked people to call investigators with information about his identity or whereabouts.

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Police also began to release information about the man who died in the shooting.

The identity of a 62-year-old man who was shot and killed in the middle of Gray Street between Main and Fannin was still pending verification by the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences.

Police said Monday the 62-year-old man was also believed to have been a gunman in the incident. He was suspected of walking up to a person and opening fire, hitting the man he was targeting and a second bystander. Both those people survived, police said

As the 62-year-old man fled the scene of the shooting, he was chased by a second man who was also armed. The two men exchanged gunfire. The 62-year-old man was shot and killed, and a nearby rider-share driver was also hit and wounded.

No arrests have been announced in connection to the shooting.

People with information about the shooting were asked to call the police department's homicide division at 713-308-3600 or Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.
Courtesy of Metro Video Services

A man was dead following a shooting outside a hotel in northwest Harris County that investigators say stemmed from an argument between two men, officials said.

Deputies around 11:50 p.m. responded to the hotel in the 12900 block of FM 1960 West after someone called to report a man found behind the facility, Thomas Gilliland, senior deputy for the sheriffs office, told Metro Video Services.
As new regulations and designs make it harder for people to acquire fake temporary license tags, some Houston Police Department investigators are seeing an apparent increase in criminals stealing permanent plates instead.

Between January and December 2022, nearly 1,580 Houston residents reported having permanent license plates stolen, according to police department data. Through the first three months of 2023, more than 516 people have reported stolen plates, or an uptick of about 161 from the same period in 2022.

Now that theyve made it a lot harder to make fake tags  its easier to spot a fake  criminals have gone back to stealing plates, said Sgt. Tracy Hicks of the departments auto crimes task force. Theyre stealing tags off similar-looking cars. Sometimes theyll switch plates completely.

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The rise in permanent plate thefts comes in the wake of officials with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles and members of the Texas Legislature taking steps this year to crack down on a flood of fake temporary tags.

The DMV, for instance, began issuing paper tags using a new design on Dec. 9, officials said. And legislators are mulling a bill that would eliminate paper tags entirely, allowing auto dealers to give out metal plates.

Police have argued for months that both measures are welcome in a state where flaws in the temporary tag system allowed at least 2 million fake Texas tags to flood the market. Those using fake tags might acquire them to drive cars skirting emission testing or even to commit crimes without being easily identifiable to police.

People are now turning to permanent plates for similar reasons, Hicks said.

Thieves will take someones front license plate, or swap out both license plates and use them while committing a robbery or some other type of crime, he said. And often, residents dont immediately notice their plates have been swapped. Or they might think the front one has simply fallen off, he said.

It can be dangerous, he said. You can have your average, good citizen driving around and their plates come back as stolen, or connected to major crimes. So, theyll get stopped by 14 officers.

Hicks urged residents to pay more attention to their plates in an attempt to ward off this latest trend. When someone buys a new vehicle, they should be sure to take photos of their license plates, both so they know their numbers and also to help investigators should they ever go missing.

Residents should also file a lost or stolen claim with police any time a plate goes missing, he said.

As a final measure, Hicks recommended drivers consider purchasing tamper-resistant license plate screws. People can buy them relatively inexpensively on Amazon or elsewhere online, and they might stop thieves from taking plates, he said.
A $20 million grant  the largest competitive research award in Prairie View A&M University's 147-year history  will help launch the first HBCU-led National Center for Infrastructure Transformation in the history of the U.S. Department of Transportation program.

This is a game changer, Texas A&M System Chancellor John Sharp said Monday at a banquet on the Waller County campus that will house one of the countrys five University Transportation Centers. "Everything flows through Prairie View A&M University, which is historic."

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University Transportation Centers are known as leaders in transportation and technology research on specific topics, such as congestion and road safety. Research at Prairie View will focus on the durability and future of Americas transportation infrastructure  a major issue as the Department of Transportation uses $560 billion from a bipartisan infrastructure bill to firm up the country's roads and transit systems.

Prairie View's center will be joined by researchers from the Texas A&M Transportation Institute, Texas A&M Engineering Experiment Station, Texas A&M University, Rutgers University, Michigan State University, Arizona State University and Blinn College.

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The $20 million stretches for five years, after which Prairie View can continue its work with the financial help of other agencies or corporations.

We will work collectively to establish a legacy, said center director Judy Perkins, who is also a Texas A&M University System Regents professor at Prairie View. We are here to provide the generation to follow with an innovative, intentional and unique university partnership that bring to practice breakthrough discoveries and new knowledge by improving the durability and improving the life of our transportation infrastructure.

The A&M System's investment

The National Center for Infrastructure Transformation relies on $40 million in funding, including $20 million from the federal government and $20 million in matching funds from the research groups member institutions.

The Texas A&M University System has pledged $2.5 million to ease the burden of the match, only weeks after former Prairie View A&M President Ruth Simmons criticized the parent organization for an alleged pattern of neglect toward its lone HBCU.

On Monday, Sharp said he has considered it one of his largest goals as chancellor to increase the system's investments in Prairie View. He defended that goal, citing $341 million in construction projects at Prairie View over the past 11 years, as well as $36 million in research funding allocated from the chancellor's research fund. Prairie View's allocation from A&M's permanent endowment has also increased by nearly 150 percent, from $12.1 million in 2011 to $29.9 million this year.

Sharp added the matching funds for the transportation center as one of several contributions that he hopes will place Prairie View on a path to becoming the nation's first HBCU with "Research 1" status, which denotes the highest possible levels of research and translates to further funding gains for universities.

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"This is the beginning of what we want to do," Sharp said. "This is the introduction to some serious money in Washington, D.C. ... I guarantee you, you just got the attention of every not just HBCU, but every university in the country."

Prairie View A&M carries a "Research 2" classification, marking "high research activity" at doctoral institutions. Magesh Rajan, Prairie View A&M's vice president of research and innovation, said it's rare for Research 2 institutions to compete with Research 1 institutions for larger grants, and it's rare for them to receive them at all.

Acting President Michael McFrazier said he believes that the A&M System has shown "unwavering support" of Prairie View in its research efforts.

"This grant requires major commitments in terms of time, effort and financial resources," he said. "The work ... will certainly display to the world the brilliance, the innovation and the level of excellence that has and continues to live at Prairie View."
In the Texas Panhandle, near large cattle feedlots, billboards stand tall with large text stating Gov. Abbott: Tax Cow Burps.

The billboards are sponsored by a Washington D.C.-based nonprofit urging Gov. Greg Abbott to tax greenhouse gas emissions from the states cattle feedlots. The billboards are scheduled to go up before Earth Day in Hereford and Littlefield, Texas.

The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine is responsible for the billboards and also a letter to Abbott detailing their cause.

The targeted feedlots in the Texas Panhandle are among the highest emitters of cow greenhouse gasses in the U.S., according to The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine.

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As cows digest food, they produce methane so when they burp and pass gas, the methane is released into the atmosphere. Methane is also emitted when animal manure is stored, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.

Methane is the second largest contributor to global warming, according to the World health Organization, topped only by carbon dioxide.

The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine is asking Abbott to tax greenhouse gas emissions from feedlots and other meat-production facilities, then use that money to support climate friendly crops that can help offset climate change.

The letter noted that New Zealand proposed a tax on cow emissions estimated to reduce livestock methane release by 47 percent by 2050.

The billboards also show a link to a Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine page on vegan eating.

Swapping beef for beans could help the United States reach targeted greenhouse gas emission reductions, the letter read.
Steve Gonzales, Houston Chronicle / Staff photographer

Galveston police Monday said they were searching for the person who stole a shrimp boat from the city's public docks and then ran it aground.

Around 7 a.m. Monday, the Port of Galveston Police Department was called about a stolen shrimp boat at Pier 19, the public dock near the city's downtown along the Galveston Ship Channel.
Texas has the greatest dementia burden score in the country, highlighting a lack of support received by loved ones of dementia patients, according to a report published by Seniorly Resource Center.

According to the report, Texas averaged 41.9 deaths from Alzheimers per 100,000 people in 2021, with numbers expected to rise by 22.5 percent by 2025.

An issue is Texas is one of 10 states that has refused to expand Medicaid, according to research by the Kaiser Family Foundation, even though it has the highest percentage of uninsured people in the nation, which is 18 percent according to U.S. Census Bureau data.

However, the Seniorly study stated Medicaid costs for dementia patients were not closely related to a states overall score.

This is a significant problem for areas such as the Rio Grande Valley, which has seen an Alzheimers spike among its Latino population.

Jon Shapley, Houston Chronicle / Staff photographer

According to the Texas Tribune, residents in the mostly rural, majority-Latino region who are 65 and over are twice as likely to be diagnosed with dementia as people in the same age group in other parts of the country.

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What is dementia?

Dementia can be caused by a number of conditions over time that damage the brain and impairs brain functions that could cause memory loss and cognitive decline.

Dementia is the seventh-leading cause of death globally, according to the World Health Organization. More than 55 million people have been diagnosed with dementia worldwide.

Die Hard actor Bruce Willis, 68, was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia in February 2023.

How were the scores decided?

To determine the scores, Seniorly rated all 50 states and Washington, D.C., based on six metrics related to dementia from the Alzheimers Association and the CDC to develop a burden score to represent the combined data.

The metrics included: cognitive decline, doctors visits, mortality rates, daily support needs, expected population growth and cost burden.

Despite having one of the youngest populations in the country with just 13.2 percent of Texans over the age of 65, Texas has a higher mortality rate.

This could be due to a combination of factors such as: the number of medically underserved regions, lack of public spending to support dementia patients and their families, and an unhealthier population overall.

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Which states had the worst scores?

The remaining four states in the top of the list were all southern states with the greatest burden scores for dementia: Alabama ranked No. 2; Louisiana ranked No. 3; Kentucky ranked No. 4; and Mississippi ranked No. 5.

Mississippi has the highest Alzheimers death rate in the country at 52.8 deaths per 100,000 people.

Kentucky also has poor numbers, with just 1 in 3 older adults with cognitive decline discussing it with their doctor.

Which states had the best scores?

Washington, D.C., ranked last (or best) on the list with the smallest burden score in the country.

This is due to its slow growth of residents with dementia and lower Medicaid costs per patient.

States with lower overall dementia burden scores were: Washington at No. 45; Connecticut at No. 46; New Jersey at No. 47; Pennsylvania at No. 48; Wisconsin at No. 49; and Maine at No. 50.
Firefighters from the Tomball and Magnolia fire departments responded to a fire Sunday at Mels Country Cafe in Tomball.

Tomball Fire Chief Joe Sykora said that the department received a call at 5:19 p.m. Sunday after the restaurant at 24814 Stanolind Rd. caught fire. Units arrived on scene at 5:22 p.m. and saw flames and smoke coming from the building.

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According to Sykora, firefighters were able to put the fire out quickly and there were no injuries.

The fire was primarily contained in the attic. We were able to save about 85 percent of the structure, Sykora said. He estimates fire crews were able to save nearly $350,000 to $400,000 in the building but said the cafe may have lost about $200,000 to $300,000 in the fire.

The building was constructed before Harris County building codes required sprinkler systems, Sykora said. However, even if sprinklers had been installed, he said they may not have helped because the fire was in the attic.

We always recommend that buildings come up to code. However, we understand in many cases, such as Mels, that can be a serious undertaking (and) many times (are) not able to meet the code because of construction requirements, said Sykora. We just ask that they be as fire safe as possible, making sure that their egress routes are clear and that they're unlocked during business hours so that patrons are able to get out or they have the appropriate push bars installed so you are able to exit the structure and nobody's able to come in that's not wanted in that area.

IN NORTHWEST HARRIS COUNTY: 2 dead, 2 injured after mobile homes catch fire

Charles Weirich Sr. and his wife Mary Weirich first opened the establishment in 1977. Today, it is considered a staple in Tomball by many locals. The restaurant is known for using locally grown and purchased ingredients.

When the cafe opened in the 70s it was named Marys Fried Chicken after Charles wife but the name changed along with its menu in 1985 and Mels Cafe started selling a wide range of food from chicken to burgers. In 1994 the name was changed again to Mels Country Cafe.

As of Tuesday morning, the cafe JTNDaWZyYW1lJTIwc3JjJTNEJTIyaHR0cHMlM0ElMkYlMkZ3d3cuZmFjZWJvb2suY29tJTJGcGx1Z2lucyUyRnBvc3QucGhwJTNGaHJlZiUzRGh0dHBzJTI1M0ElMjUyRiUyNTJGd3d3LmZhY2Vib29rLmNvbSUyNTJGTWVsc0NvdW50cnlDYWZlJTI1MkZwb3N0cyUyNTJGcGZiaWQwMjhFSFJldjROcXR6NGRNQ0ZNUHY5MVdZY3FrclhodlVMTHFVbm9VUHVZZTZZY3RBRDFlSnFTSENUUVltcENzMXBsJTI2YW1wJTNCc2hvd190ZXh0JTNEdHJ1ZSUyNmFtcCUzQndpZHRoJTNENTAwJTIyJTIwd2lkdGglM0QlMjI1MDAlMjIlMjBoZWlnaHQlM0QlMjI0OTclMjIlMjBzdHlsZSUzRCUyMmJvcmRlciUzQW5vbmUlM0JvdmVyZmxvdyUzQWhpZGRlbiUyMiUyMHNjcm9sbGluZyUzRCUyMm5vJTIyJTIwZnJhbWVib3JkZXIlM0QlMjIwJTIyJTIwYWxsb3dmdWxsc2NyZWVuJTNEJTIydHJ1ZSUyMiUyMGFsbG93JTNEJTIyYXV0b3BsYXklM0IlMjBjbGlwYm9hcmQtd3JpdGUlM0IlMjBlbmNyeXB0ZWQtbWVkaWElM0IlMjBwaWN0dXJlLWluLXBpY3R1cmUlM0IlMjB3ZWItc2hhcmUlMjIlM0UlM0MlMkZpZnJhbWUlM0U=had over 200 Facebook comments from patrons and community members expressing prayers and concern. The business created a Go Fund Me and had already raised up to $5,000 of its $15,000 goal.

In a Facebook post, Mels Country Cafe thanked the community for its support. A previous post said the restaurant will be temporarily closed but plans to reopen.

The Harris County Fire Marshals office is currently investigating the incident but was not sure what caused the fire at the time of publication.
William Butler Yeats The Second Coming has been called the most plundered poem in the English language, and its easy to see why. The poem, written in the immediate aftermath of World War I and during the height of the Russian Civil War, vividly captures the feeling that events are sliding out of control. Three lines in particular resonate in troubled times. Things fall apart; the center cannot hold, writes Yeats. The best lack all conviction, while the worst / Are full of passionate intensity.

When I read these words, dramatic, violent events come first to mind. The Capitol insurrection on Jan. 6 is a prime example of the passionate intensity of one of the worst movements in American life. With each mass shooting, I think, Things fall apart.

But there are other ways in which the center finds itself under siege. The extremist attacks on free speech (from right and left) degrade American democracy, and those attacks are especially acute on college campuses, whether they come from angry left-wing students who shout down conservative speakers or from vengeful right-wing legislators who pass laws restricting free expression in the academy or from the online activism that often demands that universities discipline scholars for engaging in provocative (but constitutionally protected) speech.

Ive never interpreted the center in Yeats poem to mean something like a politically moderate middle but rather a moral foundation, the ideological core of a nation and its people. The United States is certainly a nation built through raw power, as so many nations are, but at its best, its also built around a series of ideas, a declaration that its center requires, at a bare minimum, the promises of the Bill of Rights, including freedom of speech.

This isnt a column about doom, however, but rather about hope. There is no question that the worst are still full of passionate intensity, and we do live in a precarious place in our national life. But there are also some signs that the center is fighting back on some of the most elite campuses in the country, that some of the best still do, in fact, possess the necessary convictions. I litigated free speech issues on college campuses for almost 20 years, and Ive never seen such widespread, institutional academic support for free expression.

Lets take Stanford University, for example. In the days and weeks since law students shouted down and disrupted a speech by a federal judge, the center has taken a stand. The dean of Stanford Law School, Jenny Martinez, penned a powerful, 10-page memorandum that mandated a half-day of instruction on free speech and legal norms, reaffirmed the schools dedication to the Stanford Statement on Academic Freedom and declared: Unless we recognize that student members of the Federalist Society and other conservatives have the same right to express their views free of coercion, we cannot live up to this commitment nor can we claim that we are fostering an inclusive environment for all students.

Then theres Cornell University. In March, the schools undergraduate student assembly unanimously approved a resolution calling for trigger warnings in syllabuses to warn students of graphic traumatic content in course content. Cornells president, Martha E. Pollack, promptly vetoed it.

In a joint letter with Cornells provost, Michael I. Kotlikoff, she explained that the trigger warning policy would violate our facultys fundamental right to determine what and how to teach, preventing them from adding, throughout the semester, any content that any student might find upsetting. Moreover, the letter said, the policy would have a chilling effect on faculty, who would naturally fear censure lest they bring a discussion spontaneously into new and challenging territory, or fail to accurately anticipate students reaction to a topic or idea.

The faculty at Harvard University is also stepping up. In an opinion essay in The Boston Globe, Harvards Steven Pinker and Bertha Madras announced the creation of the Council on Academic Freedom, a coalition of 50 faculty members and several other Harvard employees devoted to free inquiry, intellectual diversity and civil discourse.

On Monday, Vanderbilt University will announce the expansion of the American branch of the Future of Free Speech Project, an initiative run by the Danish think tank Justitia, which will include an international focus on free expression. I spoke to the projects executive director, Jacob Mchangama, and he emphasized that American support for free speech can have a global impact in combating tyranny. He pointed to a piece he wrote in Foreign Policy noting that American legal standards have influenced foreign courts, specifically by enhancing press freedom. In our conversation, he made a point thats critical in contemporary debates. Free speech and equality, he said, are mutually reinforcing, not mutually exclusive.

Thats four elite American academic institutions that have doubled down on free speech in just one month.

And we cannot forget the University of Chicago. Since 2014, its arguably been the single most influential academic institution in the United States supporting academic freedom. Its statement on free speech declares the universitys fundamental commitment is to the principle that debate or deliberation may not be suppressed because the ideas put forth are thought by some or even by most members of the university community to be offensive, unwise, immoral or wrongheaded. A version of the Chicago statement has been adopted by almost 100 colleges, universities and state university systems, including Princeton University, Johns Hopkins University and the North Carolina and Wisconsin state university systems.

I share this not to declare that the battle for free speech on campus is won. Far from it. The Stanford statement was in response to a student disruption. This month, former NCAA swimmer Riley Gaines alleged she was assaulted after speaking at San Francisco State University in opposition to transgender women competing in womens sports. Theres video evidence that Gaines was chased through the halls by angry protesters and that her event was disrupted by chanting, foot-stomping protests.

And disruptions like those we witnessed at Stanford and San Francisco State have occurred alongside hundreds of recent attempts to fire or punish scholars for speech thats protected by the First Amendment or basic principles of academic freedom.

Its important to emphasize that the fight over free speech on campus is not left versus right. Attempts to suppress ideas and stifle speech come from both ends of the political spectrum. The faculty and administrators at Stanford, Cornell, Harvard and Chicago who are making their stands arent a collection of conservatives taking on woke college students. Instead, they represent the moral and legal center of the American academy taking on the extremes.

Left and right tend to challenge free speech on campus in different ways. Left-leaning students have led shout-downs and disrupted events, while right-leaning legislators have passed or considered laws stifling the expression of controversial ideas about race and gender. Both sides have proved capable of mobilizing online outrage to punish professors who offend their constituencies.

The First Amendment cannot be tied to one side of our partisan divide. Its not a Republican value or a Democratic value but rather an American value, and its a value thats particularly important in the academy.

In 1957, during a previous wave of censorship aimed at eliminating subversive people from public employment, the Supreme Court issued its most ringing declaration of support for academic freedom: Scholarship cannot flourish in an atmosphere of suspicion and distrust. Teachers and students must always remain free to inquire, to study and to evaluate, to gain new maturity and understanding; otherwise, our civilization will stagnate and die.

This language might seem dramatic, but its true. Free speech is indispensable to the American idea. It protects us from tyranny more thoroughly and effectively than any other constitutional right. As Frederick Douglass proclaimed after his own brush with mob censorship, Liberty is meaningless where the right to utter ones thoughts and opinions has ceased to exist.

Americas most elite academic institutions can, in fact, demonstrate conviction. The passionate intensity of the extremes remains, but the center can hold. Douglass was correct. Free speech is the dread of tyrants, and sustaining that freedom  against left-wing protests and right-wing lawmakers  will preserve Americas democratic experiment. There is no path to American equality or justice absent the freedom of speech.
Harris County is battling Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton's office over its ability to withhold election records that have been requested under the state's public information law.

In the case, filed last December, the county argues it should be able to reject requests for three types of information: voting records that are prohibited from release by state law for 22 months after an election, documents related to pending litigation, and working papers involved in ongoing audits.

The Texas Election Code, in keeping with the Civil Rights Act of 1960, bars officials from releasing anonymized completed ballots for 22 months after an election.

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There has been a longstanding consensus that those election records are confidential during that period, according to Harris County Attorney Christian Menefee.

"And then, out of thin air, our current attorney general decided that those records were no longer confidential and had to be produced to the public for inspection immediately following the election," Menefee said. "Again, this was a complete 180 from not only the law, but also previous opinions issued by previous attorneys general."

Melissa Phillip, Houston Chronicle / Staff photographer

Menefee said Paxton's decision was driven by politics, not the law.

"It's just a bad faith reading of the law to appease a certain part of his base," Menefee said.

The county is asking a Travis County court to rule Paxton's office wrongly concluded the county could not withhold those records, but others side with the attorney general's interpretation. Williamson County also is suing the attorney general on the election ballots issue.

The attorney general's office did not respond to a request for comment.

"I agree with the attorney general that the voting records as still subject to disclosure while they are secured," said Bill Aleshire, an Austin attorney who works with the Freedom of Information Foundation of Texas. "The county should protect the voting records from any tampering, but the records can be protected while still permitting public disclosure."

Chad Dunn, a longtime election lawyer based in Austin, said Harris County is doing the right thing by seeking a court ruling.

"There are good arguments on both sides on whether or not election records should be available within that period. And what I have found frustrating is that the state takes each side of that position depending on what the political stakes are at issue," Dunn said. "So, getting a final ruling on it from the courts, to me, is the critical piece."

Harris County also is fighting the attorney general's determination that it must hand over records related to pending litigation.

The Texas Public Information Act includes that exemption to prevent the public from misinterpreting information before a case has had its day in court, which is particularly important when the litigation involves election misinformation, Menefee said.

"This is the quintessential example of people seeking to litigate something in the public sphere, and that's why the Legislature passed the law allowing for documents to be withheld subject to the litigation exception," Menefee said.

Menefee said the exception is standard practice at every level of government.

"In fact, just last week, the AG's office notified us that they were asserting the litigation exception on something relevant to something going on in Harris County," Menefee said.

If a bill at the Texas Legislature makes it to the governor's desk, the exemption could change. Senate Bill 1910, authored by state Sen. Paul Bettencourt, R-Houston, would amend the law so the exemption no longer applies to election-related litigation.

"The 'litigation exception' should be repealed," Aleshire said. "Harris County can legally disclose information related to litigation  it is not 'confidential' information  and it makes absolutely no sense to withhold records from public disclosure just because the government is involved in litigation. Some would say that when the government gets sued, its even more important for the public to see all records related to that lawsuit."

There are good arguments on both sides about whether the exception should exist, Dunn said.

"But as long as it does, I can tell you in 20-plus years of doing open records work around elections, that the state takes the position, if there's a lawsuit somewhere, nothing has to be produced. So, to apply that exception differently to Harris County, it seems to me it's not consistent with the law," Dunn said.

Menefee said the county already has made several types of election information available to the public, such as the list of election workers, call logs, technician logs, and provisional ballot counts.

The Houston Chronicle was among the requestors that sought that information.

KHOU, which also had requested some of that information, filed a petition intervening in the lawsuit two weeks ago.

The county has turned over some election-related documents to lawyers involved in the 22 election contest lawsuits filed by Republican candidates, Menefee said.

"To the extent that those cases end up going to trial, then all these issues are going to be litigated in public," Menefee said.

Some of those lawsuits could go to trial by mid-June at the earliest.
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Houston furniture magnate Jim Mattress Mack McIngvale has filed a lawsuit against the Harris County Elections Administrators office accusing it of refusing to turn over public records related to the November 2022 election, adding to an array of GOP litigation aimed at the county's elections process.

According to the petition filed Monday night, Wayne Dolcefino, a media consultant and former TV journalist, submitted multiple requests for public information on behalf of the Gallery Furniture owner, who was a major donor supporting Republican candidates including County Judge Lina Hidalgo's opponent Alexandra del Moral Mealer.

Houston Chronicle

In response to each of the requests for public information, the elections office responded by seeking an opinion from the Texas Attorney General's office allowing it to withhold the information due to ongoing litigation, the lawsuit states.

INTERACTIVE MAP: See how your neighbors voted in Harris County race between Lina Hidalgo, Alexandra Mealer

The petition also acknowledges the county has provided some of the requested documents.

In a statement Tuesday, Harris County Attorney Christian Menefee's office said: "The requests for these documents were handled the same as any other requests for documents related to ongoing litigation against the county. Were evaluating the lawsuit and will let the courts sort it out."

The Harris County Elections Administrator's Office also issued a statement, saying it readily has responded to requests that do not require documents subject to the litigation, and has sought an opinion from the attorney general's office on those that do.

"According to the Public Information Act, the attorney generals office has 45 working days from the day after the request to respond. As of today, the office has not received an opinion on how to proceed with these particular public information requests. Any suggestion that the Harris County Elections Administrators Office lacks transparency is false," it said.

The lawsuit is an example of why the Texas Legislature should repeal the "litigation exception" provision in state law that offers public offices an option to withhold records during litigation, said Bill Aleshire, an Austin attorney who works with the Freedom of Information Foundation of Texas.

"There is no justification for denying the public information about a controversy just because it involves litigation," Aleshire said. "In fact, when something controversial enough happens to be the subject of a lawsuit, that is exactly when the public most needs to know what the record shows. Yet, the way the (Texas Public Information Act) is written, no one  except those involved in the underlying lawsuit  can get access to the public information."

The "litigation exception" typically is upheld by courts, so McIngvale's lawsuit is unlikely to produce the requested records, he said.

However, state law does not prevent the county from providing the records, but rather gives the county discretion to decide.

"It does not make the records 'confidential' (where it would be illegal to disclose the information); it just means the government is not required to disclose the information," Aleshire said. "But they could if they are willing to do so."

MORE ON ELECTIONS: Nine Republicans challenge election losses in Harris County

McIngvale's lawsuit comes more than a month after 22 unsuccessful Republican candidates filed lawsuits in Harris County challenging the results of the November election, including Mealer, who lost her race by around 18,000 votes and conceded the contest the morning after Election Day.

The candidates claim ballot paper shortages on Election Day disenfranchised voters.

McIngvale engaged Dolcefino's firm months ago to investigate the 2022 election, which also faces scrutiny from a Texas Rangers criminal investigation, a Harris County Republican Party lawsuit alleging violations of the Texas Election Code and a forensic audit by the Texas Secretary of State's office for which Harris County was randomly selected.

"Harris County voters have a right to know right now what went wrong," Dolcefino said.

According to the petition, Dolcefino requested a detailed phone record for Elections Administrator Cliff Tatum, including text and phone messages. The requests also seek Tatum's emails on Election Day, all email communications between Tatum and Precinct 1 Commissioner Rodney Ellis's office, maintenance records for voting machines, information about ballot paper allotment and communications on Election Day between the elections office and the election judges presiding over polling locations.

"We want to know from the Harris County election board whether this was incompetence, negligence, corruption or a combination of all three," McIngvale said.

Asked if they had evidence or an estimate of voters disenfranchised by the events of Election Day, Dolcefino replied, "It hasn't been the focus of what were doing."

The first judicial election challenge was filed in December by Republican candidate Erin Lunceford, who lost Harris County's 189th state district court race to Democrat Tamika Craft by 2,743 votes.

In an email obtained by Craft's attorneys and posted on the Harris County District Clerk's website, Harris County Republican Party Chair Cindy Siegel gave candidates the party's estimate of disenfranchised voters on Jan. 3, when the deadline to file election contest lawsuits was approaching.

"Based upon information to date we believe there were approximately 2,600 or more estimated voters turned away due to running out of ballot paper or machines not working for a period of time," Siegel wrote.

The closest race, between Republican Tami Pierce and Democrat Desean Jones for the 180th State District Court, was decided by 449 votes. The next closest race, between Lunceford and Craft, was decided by 2,743 votes. Fourteen of the Republican candidates who filed election challenges lost their races by more than 24,000 votes.

Last week, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick joined other GOP state officials calling for Harris County to redo its election because of claims that voters were turned away due to alleged paper ballot shortages, though acknowledging he had no idea how many voters were actually disenfranchised, if any.

More from Jen Rice: Harris County elections chief responds to critics questioning election integrity

The Harris County elections office has repeated the response it has offered since election night: that while some voting locations did run low on their initial allotment of ballot paper, "supplies of additional paper ballots were delivered to locations throughout Harris County on Election Day."

An election post-mortem report from Tatum's office found that 68 voting locations reported running out of paper, 61 of which received additional deliveries. At nearly one-third of the locations with reported shortages, election workers gave the county conflicting accounts with some saying they did not run out of paper.

According to the report, "many of them provided confusing answers and some declined to speak after reportedly being advised not to do so by the Harris County Republican Party."

Tatum has said that while paper supplies ran low at some locations, the county has not been able to confirm whether any voters were turned away as a result.
On the campaign trail Wednesday, Republican Gov. Greg Abbott claimed that his hands are tied when it comes to raising the legal age to buy an assault-style weapon, pointing to recent rulings that he said precluded such laws.

There have been three court rulings since May that have made it clear that it is unconstitutional to ban someone between the ages of 18 and 21 from being able to buy an AR, Abbott said. It is clear that the gun control law that they are seeking in Uvalde, as much as they want it, it has already been ruled to be unconstitutional.

But legal experts say that's incorrect  the Supreme Court has not yet had the final word on age restrictions for any type of weapon.

At least seven states  California, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, New York, Vermont and Washington  have passed legislation raising the legal purchase age for sales of long guns, and several cases regarding those laws are winding their way through the courts.

Its an unsettled question whether states can restrict guns to people under 21, said Adam Winkler, a UCLA law professor who studies gun policy. There are court cases going both ways ... This is one of many issues the Supreme Court is going to have to take up in the coming years.

The measure is among the top reforms requested by families of the victims of the Uvalde school shooting and one that showed promise of having bipartisan support in recent legislative hearings. The shooter legally purchased two assault rifles just days after he turned 18, authorities said.

Recent polling has shown theres broad support for raising the minimum age to buy assault-style weapons to 21. An NPR/Ipsos poll in July, for example, found 72 percent of gun owners and 75 percent of Americans are in favor.

Chris Evans, a spokesman for Abbotts Democratic opponent Beto ORourke, said the governor is refusing to take action even as gun violence has become the leading cause of death among children and teens in Texas.

An overwhelming 75 percent of Texas voters  including 72 percent of Republicans  agree with this popular, bipartisan and commonsense response, Evans said referring to a Dallas Morning News-University of Texas at Tyler poll last month. As governor, Beto will work with Republicans and Democrats to raise the minimum age for purchasing an assault weapon to 21, finally reduce gun violence and keep Texas kids safe."

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Uvalde school shooting: Teen gunman bought AR-15 style rifle day after he turned 18

Abbott did not respond to a request for comment, but a spokeswoman clarified the three cases to which he referred.

One of them was the Supreme Courts landmark ruling this June that the Second Amendment guarantees the right to carry a handgun in public for self-defense. The case also set a new legal test for whether gun restrictions are constitutional that requires them to be consistent with this nations historical tradition of firearm regulation.

Another case Abbott referenced was a federal judges ruling last week that struck down a Texas law prohibiting anyone under the age of 21 from carrying handguns. U.S. District Judge Mark Pittman relied on the high courts ruling as he reasoned that the Second Amendment contains no age restriction and young men were part of the militia in the Founding Era.

David Pucino, deputy chief counsel for the Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence, said there is a well-grounded case to be made that age restrictions are lawful and in keeping with historical laws.

There is really strong law and strong history to support the principle that you can have these restrictions, Pucino said. Historically, the age of 21 was the age of majority (legal adulthood); its only a far more recent development that its been lowered to the age of 18.

Pucino added that the cases to which Abbott refers had to do with carrying of handguns, not purchasing of assault weapons.

IN-DEPTH: Why 18-year-olds can buy AR-15s in Texas but not handguns

An important distinction is that handguns are recognized by the Supreme Court as being the quintessential weapon for self-defense, and that is absolutely not the case with assault weapons, Pucino said. These rifles in particular have offensive capabilities, and thats their distinguishing feature is the fact that they can be used to inflict an incredible and horrifying amount of damage in a very short period of time.

He added that the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals in 2012 upheld the federal law restricting the sale of handguns to those under 21 years old and cited several examples of historic gun regulations for people under 21 in the Founding Era and the 19th and 20th centuries.

The final case on Abbotts list was a three-judge panel of the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals ruling out of California in May that found its law prohibiting anyone under 21 from buying an assault weapon was unconstitutional, concluding it was a burden on citizens Second Amendment rights. That was a month prior to the Supreme Court decision changing the legal test for gun restriction constitutionality. The states attorney general has requested a rehearing by the full court.

Abbott, however, did not mention a similar case in Florida that went the opposite way.

In 2018, after a 19-year-old killed 17 people at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, the state enacted a law preventing anyone under 21 from buying a firearm. A district court upheld the law, and the case is now pending before a federal appeals court.

State Sen. Roland Gutierrez, a lawyer and San Antonio Democrat whose district includes Uvalde, said Abbotts statement was preposterous and ill-founded, and as a lawyer and former Texas Supreme Court judge, Abbott should know better. He added he believes the district court decision striking Texas age restrictions for handgun purchases will be overturned.

While Gutierrez suggested that Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has an obligation to appeal the district court ruling on the handgun purchase age restriction, he added that if Paxton chooses to abandon that duty, it is his hope that some other entity take up the appeal.

Another party can intervene in the case as long as it proves it has legal standing to sue; thats a common tactic used in the courts, often when a new presidential administration of a different political party takes office in the middle of a lawsuit.

If he chooses to refuse to do his job, hes going to have to answer to voters in November, Gutierrez said. Were not asking for the moon and stars here. Were asking for an age limit for assault weapons for people under 21. Honestly, I think it should be higher, but the consensus of people polled has always been 21. And so, unlike Greg Abbott, unlike Paxton, I choose to listen to the people of Texas.
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More than 50 years after the late Barbara Jordan broke political barriers for women and Black Texans, she has broken through another.

The state this week opened a new $260 million 12-story building within view of the Texas Capitol named for the Fifth Ward resident who in 1966 became the first Black woman to ever serve in the Texas Senate.

The building, which will house the Texas Department of Insurance, is the first named after any Black Texan around the Texas Capitol Complex.

Were here to honor a woman who throughout her life, and even in her death, lived in a way that shes still the first in so many areas, the Rev. D. Z. Cofield, senior pastor at Houston's Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church, told a crowd of several hundred at a ceremony in Austin on Monday. How do you have a building named after you 27 years after youve passed? I think the answer is very simple: by living your life in a way that outlives your life.

During her tenure in the Texas Senate, Jordan on June 10, 1972, served as the acting governor because both Gov. Preston Smith and Lt. Gov. Ben Barnes were out of the state. That made her the first Black woman to serve as acting governor of Texas.

That same year, Jordan became the first Black woman elected to Congress from the South and later became a key figure in the televised impeachment hearings of President Richard Nixon, which brought her even more national fame.

Barbara Jordans impact on the state of Texas, and really the world, was tremendous and cannot be overstated, said state Sen. Royce West, D-Dallas, who helped lead the charge to name the building after Jordan.

Among those at the ceremony in front of the 416,000-square-foot building, was Rose Mary McGowan, the 90-year-old sister of Jordan.
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Jim Mattress Mack McIngvale pressed state senators on Tuesday to help him access Harris County election records from last Novembers midterms, using the remarks in Austin to denounce his home county as crime-ridden under Democratic leaders.

The Houston furniture magnate and frequent GOP donor has sued the Harris County Elections Administrators office over its refusal to turn over public records related to the election, adding to an array of pending Republican litigation over the elections process.

BACKGROUND: Mattress Mack files lawsuit over 2022 Harris County election records

Were pleading with you now to release the public election records that could dampen the breeding mistrust of our officials, McIngvale testified Tuesday before the Senate Committee on Business and Commerce. His remarks were part of invited testimony by Republican state Sen. Paul Bettencourt of Houston.

The county has separately sued the Texas Attorney Generals Office over its insistence that it turn over records including copies of paper ballots that have had names and IDs redacted from them, saying that releasing the records would break with legal precedent and violate the states election code.

In response to McIngvales initial records request, the county provided some documents and appealed to the attorney generals office on the rest, saying it couldnt turn over records that were part of pending litigation.

The county did not immediately respond to a request for comment Tuesday, but has said that McIngvales request was handled the same as any other requests for documents related to ongoing litigation against the county.

Harris County Attorney Christian Menefee has said the Texas Public Information Act includes the litigation exemption to prevent the public from misinterpreting information before a case is resolved in court.

Harris County is the subject of several lawsuits targeting the November election, during which a few dozen precincts reported running out of ballot paper. A postmortem by the countys election administrators office found that most of the locations received additional ballot deliveries and that election officials at a third of them gave conflicting accounts of whether they truly did have shortages.

The measure McIngvale was testifying on Tuesday, Senate Bill 1579 by Bettencourt, aims to narrow the circumstances under which an agency needs to appeal to the attorney generals office.

In theory, it could speed up the process for some applicants to get a decision on their requests. Local and state officials routinely appeal requests to the attorney generals office, not just in Harris County, and some critics say the practice is overused in order to delay the release of records.

Bettencourt, who used to oversee voter registration in Harris County and was sued himself by Democrats in 2008 over not releasing records, is pushing another bill that would more directly deal with McIngvales situation by making documents that are part of election-related litigation subject to release. (Bettencourt said the county followed all applicable laws in the 2008 case and noted that the plaintiffs, the Texas Democratic Party, never ultimately obtained the records. The case ended in a settlement.)

SB 1579 still has a long way to go to become law, including passing the full Senate and House. On Tuesday, state Sen. Lois Kolkhorst, R-Brenham, appeared to be in support.

The point is, the government is the peoples government, she said. We have to get to a better place where were not playing hide-the-ball.

McIngvale has railed against crime in Harris County in recent years and last year helped bankroll County Judge Lina Hidalgos GOP opponent, Alexandra del Moral Mealer, who ultimately lost by about 18,000 votes. He used his remarks Tuesday to veer from the scope of the bill and instead paint a grim picture of a county he said is besieged by criminals.

Do not turn your back on us now, McIngvale said, claiming that children in Houston are afraid to walk to school and mothers are afraid to go grocery shopping.

Were asking you to send in the Texas Rangers and other law enforcement agencies to help us fight the rampant crime in Harris County, he said.

Violent crime declined in 2022 in Harris County, but was still above its pre-pandemic rate. Large counties and cities across the country struggled to respond to nationwide spikes in murders and other violent crime during the height of the pandemic.

After his remarks before the committee, McIngvale gathered with reporters outside the state Capitol. Dressed in a sky blue sports coat emblazoned with the names of every winner of the Kentucky Derby, he urged the governor, lieutenant governor and attorney general to use the weight of their offices to shine a light on what happened on election night in Harris County.

We need accountability in Harris County, McIngvale said. People deserve to know what happened on Election Day. Why did Travis County, Bexar County, Dallas County have the election done by 10 oclock the night of the election. Harris County took us until 6 oclock the next day. Were better than that in Harris County.

McIngvale was joined Tuesday by Wayne Dolcefino, a former TV news journalist whom McIngvale hired to investigate the election results.

This is really going to become, I think, sadly, one of the biggest fights over the right to know, Dolcefino said. Regardless of whether youre a conspiracy theorist or not, there were problems in that election.  We are simply trying to find out when they knew there were problems, what they did, what the election administrator did.

Benjamin Wermund contributed to this report.
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A bill that would bar cities and counties from regulating entire industries and professions tentatively passed the Texas House on Tuesday night, setting the stage for perhaps the most sweeping victory in Republicans yearslong push to crack down on local governments.

THE BIG PICTURE: Texas Republicans take their epic battle against blue cities to a new level

Under the legislation, House Bill 2127, local regulations covering business, labor, property and other areas would be limited to whats explicitly authorized in the state codes governing those topics. Local officials say the bill could preempt existing regulations for things like unlicensed boarding homes, heavy commercial vehicles and hazardous waste disposal.

Proponents say the bill would give businesses consistency  so they dont face a patchwork of regulations from city to city  and ensure local officials dont overstep the powers granted them by the Legislature. Critics say the bill would quash commonplace local ordinances that merely happen to overlap with state codes, like limits on overgrown grass, and prevent local officials from doing what voters elected them to do.

HB 2127 passed by a 92-55 vote after several hours of debate, during which lawmakers rejected more than 30 Democratic amendments. Most had aimed to carve certain industries out of the bill so local governments could continue regulating them.

House lawmakers are expected to give the bill final approval Wednesday and send it along to the more conservative Senate, where it is unlikely to encounter much resistance.

Several Democrats joined the Republican majority in supporting the bill.

Hany Khalil, executive director of Texas Gulf Coast Area Labor Federation, called HB 2127 a Death Star bill that amounts to a hostile and sweeping power grab by partisan state officials designed to decimate our basic ability to govern ourselves at the local level.

The Republican-controlled Legislature has long waged war with cities and counties, spurred on by GOP state leaders including Gov. Greg Abbott, who once warned that Texas is being California-ized by local overregulation.

But until now, the offense has stuck to single measures, with lawmakers pushing off past efforts to broadly prohibit local ordinances that are more stringent than state law.

State Rep. Dustin Burrows, a Lubbock Republican who authored HB 2127, said his proposal would ensure the Legislature no longer has to play Whac-A-Mole to strike down regulations one by one, as with past legislation barring cities from regulating most oil and gas drilling or forcing landlords to accept federal housing vouchers.

The bill is aimed at keeping cities and counties focused on core functions like public safety and road and sewage maintenance, Burrows said, adding that liberal advocacy groups have used local officials  most of whom are Democrats in large, urban areas  to try to implement their vision of Texas that we have already rejected at the Capitol.

What I am starting to see is a different category of ordinances that have emerged, where some of the same advocates that come to the Legislature with their agenda  have now gone to some of our cities  maybe our more progressive cities  and had those adopted there, Burrows said.

Burrows feelings about local governments came to light at an infamous meeting nearly four years ago with a conservative activist and then-House Speaker Dennis Bonnen, who was recorded saying that he told any mayor, county judge that was dumb ass enough to come meet with me that my goal is for this to be the worst session in the history of the Legislature for cities and counties.

Burrows, according to an audio recording, added, I hope the next sessions even worse.

Local officials, meanwhile, argue HB 2127 takes a crude approach by extending the same regulatory limits to the states biggest urban centers and its smallest rural towns. And, because the Legislature meets regularly for only five months every other year, they contend that HB 2127 would leave them unable to address urgent issues that might arise between sessions.

In the same way we dont lecture Lubbock on how to deal with windstorms, lets keep the part-timers at the Capitol from inserting themselves into how we operate here on the Gulf Coast, said Adrian Garcia, a Harris County commissioner.

The bill would stop local governments from regulating conduct in areas already occupied by eight state codes: Agriculture, Business & Commerce, Finance, Insurance, Labor, Natural Resources, Occupations and Property.

It specifies that local officials cannot regulate employment leave, hiring practices, rest breaks, employment benefits, scheduling practices or any other terms of employment that exceed or conflict with state or federal law.

State Rep. Chris Turner, D-Dallas, contended that workplace safety  including rules requiring water breaks for construction workers  is a matter of public safety, which Burrows named as a core function of cities and counties.

But workplace standards are already regulated federally through the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, Burrows argued.

He told Turner he is happy to work with him on legislation if he can identify an issue thats not being handled by OSHA.

An initial draft of the bill also appeared to forbid cities and counties from regulating payday lending, which involves small, short-term loans that avoid legal caps on fees and interest. Dozens of cities, including Houston, have passed rules governing payday and auto title lenders, following an unsuccessful push to enact stronger regulations at the Legislature.

The latest version strikes a sort of compromise, allowing cities and counties to maintain existing payday lending ordinances adopted before the start of 2023. Future rules would remain preempted, however.

Lawmakers also amended the bill Tuesday to grandfather-in existing puppy mill regulations, along with anything else governing the retail sale of dogs or cats.
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State Sen. Paul Mark speaks at the 1Berkshire luncheon on Friday. 1Berkshire President Jonathon Butler celebrates the return of networking events after years of pandemic. PreviousNext

State Sen. Paul Mark Featured at Return of 1Berkshire Luncheons



State Sen. Paul Mark speaks with attendees after Friday's luncheon. PITTSFIELD, Mass.  State Sen. Paul Mark spoke of his efforts advocating for the region and rural communities, the transition from the House of Representatives, and answered questions from community members in a variety of industries a luncheon this past Friday.

"Shortly after Senator Mark was elected this fall, we immediately knew that we wanted to do some kind of an event to welcome him to the new role," said 1Berkshire President and CEO Jonathan Butler.

"The relationship between our state senator and the business community has long been steadfast and strong and we're looking forward to continuing that with Senator Mark. The senator has spent his career fighting for the people of Western Massachusetts."

The event took place Friday at Berkshire Hill Country Club on the 100th day of his tenure in the Senate.

During those first 100 days, state Senate President Karen E. Spilka visited North Adams, he hosted a district conference in Lenox with seven committee chairs including Joint Committee on Ways and Means Chair Michael J. Rodrigues.

"When you're in Senate, every member of the Senate, because there are only 40, is a member of the leadership. You're either a member of the party leadership, whichever party you're in, or you're a committee chair," Mark explained. "And that's wonderful because it means every one of you has some leverage to have your voice heard.

"So every bill that comes down there is the opportunity to put the stamp of this region on that piece of legislation whether it's policy or whether its budget and that's something I've been dying to be able to do and I'm so excited to have the opportunity."

As a state representative for 12 years, he was one of 160 members and served 25 communities. As a senator, he is one of 40 members and represents 57 communities.

Mark said there is a Chapter 90 road funding bill that was inspired by feedback from the towns of Becket, Mount Washington, Washington, and Goshen that includes $25 million for rural communities using a formula based on road miles and a lack of population density.

"It's the same job but you go from representing a small area really close on the ground to representing a gigantic area with so many people, 170,000 people, and so much needed," he said.

"But the opportunity to deliver results like this quickly has been so affirming and so exciting."

Shakespeare & Company director Amy Handelsman queried Mark on affordable housing. He pointed out that Gov. Maura Healey declared housing as one of her top priorities and the Senate recently moved on her effort to separate the Department of Housing from the Department of Economic Development to create a standalone secretary of housing.

There is also an intention to turn unutilized or underutilized state-owned property into housing.

"There also needs to be, importantly, recognition that a development that could work in even Pittsfield or North Adams and would work in many parts of the state might not work in a town like Becket, in a town like Peru," Mark added. "And how do we make it attractive that a development that might include four properties, five properties, and resulting in 20 people moving in is still worth doing and still needs to be economically attractive."

Mark was also asked about plans to support early education by the preschool director of Kidzone Childcare.

After the onset of COVID-19, he said there was a realization that lack of child care affected many people's ability to work. This is an impediment to economic activity and disproportionately affects women, he added.

State Rep. Tricia Farley-Bouvier has been a supporter of early education, sponsoring a bill to provide affordable and accessible high-quality early education and care to promote child development and well-being and support the economy in the commonwealth.

"Early education is another place that the governor has been a priority," Mark said.

"And it goes right alongside a vision that I think is emerging for how K-through-12 education should look and be properly funded, how higher education should look and be properly funded, and then early education too as the foundation that builds into education in higher education and vocational training."

The senator serves on the Joint Committee on Children, Families, and People with Disabilities.

Berkshire County Arc President & CEO Maryann Hyatt thanked Mark for his support of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and the organization.

She pointed to a workforce bill that aims to raise the minimum salary of direct support workers up to at least the 75 percent threshold.

Mark explained that the Berkshires and the entire state is having trouble attracting workers because of factors including child care, pay, and qualifications.

"Making sure that salaries of workers in organizations like Berkshire Arc and others are adequate, that we're fully funding that as best as possible, and then making sure that's also supplemented by opportunities to proper training, proper education, loan forgiveness programs, loan relief, student grants, is extremely critical," he said.

He said the entire delegation supports the bill and will fight for it, it's just a matter of phasing it in slowly while making sure that workers can be attracted to do the extremely important job.

Richard Alcombright, former North Adams mayor, thanked Mark for his work to support folks suffering from substance abuse and mental health issues, recognizing that there were many people in the room whose professions support those populations.

Mark said he was eligible for free lunch at school, saying the stigma that came with it was similar.

"It has been a priority of mine to also eliminate that stigma, allow people that just need help to get help so they can also break through those barriers," he said adding that every penny invested in recovery is a dollar that is saved later.

Friday's gathering was 1Berkshire's largest in-person event since the pandemic began three years ago.

"If you go back to 2019, we would throw together breakfasts and lunches and other business community networking events where we can kind of get the business community and our nonprofits and our educational institutions all sharing a meal together and networking and getting to know each other," he said.

"We consider it to be one of the most important pieces of work that we do."

General Dynamics Mission Systems, Jiminy Peak, and KB Accounting were chief sponsors of the event and it was catered by KJ Nosh.
Pittsfield School Committee Continues Budget Conversation Ahead of April 26 Vote

PITTSFIELD, Mass.  With only a draft spending plan and a short turnaround from the budget workshop, the School Committee has continued informal budget conversation to guide the administration on its final ask.



Members participated in a budget workshops last week, digging into various line items for more than two hours. The committee is expected to adopt a budget on April 26 and have a joint meeting with the City Council no later than June 1.



"I had a fairly lengthy discussion with [Superintendent Joseph Curtis] and [Assistant Superintendent for Business and Finance Kristen Behnke] about how exactly we should proceed here. We don't have a budget to act on at this point. We have a draft that's been submitted and it doesn't seem to me that we probably ought to be taking votes on parts of the budget," Chair William Cameron said.



"Rather, we should look at the whole budget when it comes up for review and then if there are changes to be made, we could make them."



In March, a $78,310,016 proposal for fiscal 2024 was presented to the committee. It is an 8.17 percent  or $5,911,754  increase from FY23's budget of $72,398,262 and 83 percent of the increase, about $4.9 million, is allocated for special education instruction and support, Career Technical Education/career pathways, and contractual obligations.



At the beginning of the meeting, President of the United Educators of Pittsfield Melissa Campbell voiced concerns about staffing cuts within the draft budget.



"Our specific concern is the proposed cut of more than 10 full-time teaching positions across the district while at the same time increasing the number of administrators and behavior specialists," she said.



"We've been told that the cut of teachers is necessary because of a change in enrollment. However, from the numbers we gathered from the state, the district has had a change of roughly 60 students over the past year."



Campbell asked why there is a need for increased administrators if there is a decline in enrollment and said the $105,000 proposal for a co-principal at Morningside Community School could fund two teachers who would be working directly with students.



The UEP also provided comment on the increase in teachers of deportment to manage student behaviors.



"We all know that an increase in class size means an increase in behaviors to manage. It's more difficult to manage all students' needs when class sizes and thereby the teacher-student ratio are not carefully considered," Campbell said.



"While we appreciate the attempt to employ staff to help manage student behaviors, we cannot endorse this plan if it means cutting teaching positions, which are the core of any educational system to make this happen. For us, the more simple and effective solution to managing student behaviors is to keep the teacher-student ratio as low as possible."



As a former Reid Middle School teacher, Sara Hathaway emphasized the UEPs concerns.


CHP Free Pediatric Bivalent Boosters for Children

GREAT BARRINGTON, Mass.  The Community Health Programs (CHP) Berkshires Mobile Health team now offers the Pfizer-BioNTech pediatric bivalent booster shots for children 6 months through age 4.

These boosters are free.

CHP Mobile Health clinics are held at multiple locations each week around Berkshire County, and the schedule can be found at chpberkshires.org/mobile . These booster shots are free.

The Pfizer-BioNTech bivalent pediatric booster shots are available to children who received three Pfizer-BioNTech primary Covid-19 vaccines of the monovalent type. Children who are at least two months beyond their third monovalent primary vaccine are also eligible. This booster is not for children who have already had a bivalent vaccine as part of their primary vaccine series.

Parents and caregivers are asked to call CHP Berkshires for an appointment and to verify that their child is eligible for this booster, based on prior vaccine history.

Appointments and information: (413) 528-0457.
Why Choose Berkshire Community College for Nursing?

There are many ways to measure the health of a community  its access to food and housing, the quality of its schools, public safety, environmental stewardship, cultural offerings. But perhaps the greatest need of any community is the physical and mental health of its citizens. That's where nursing steps in, and where Berkshire Community College (BCC) fills a need every day.

BCC has been providing an excellent nursing education for more than 50 years, and many of its faculty members are BCC alums.

"We have a student-centered group of nurse educators that truly care about student success," says Lori Moon, BCC Dean of Nursing. "We train our own to stay and work in Berkshire County, and we have excellent relationships with all of the local health care facilities."

The comparatively low tuition at BCC is affordable for most students, and more than 80% of the student body receives financial aid. The average award is $5,000. There are also more than 200 scholarships, totaling $400,000, available to BCC students.

And, thanks to a partnership with Berkshire Health Systems (BHS), some nursing students may be eligible for zero-cost enrollment.




iciHaiti - Port-au-Prince : Arrest of an important member of the 5 Seconds gang





Sunday, April 16, 2023, the National Police of Haiti (PNH) proceeded to the arrest of Frantz Casimir at Champ-de-Mars (Port-au-Prince) while he was aboard a Toyota RAV4 registered AA 79830, involved in several cases of kidnapping, in particular at rue St Honore, Rue Mgr Guilloux, hospital area of the State University of Haiti and at Place Ste Anne according to information available to the Police.



Frantz Casimir alias "CP" or "Ti Dou" an important member of the "5 Seconds" gang operating in Village de Dieu, was among other things responsible for selling the goods stolen by the gang.



Frantz Casimir was placed in police custody pending being brought before the competent authorities.



IH/ iciHaiti


















Trend Micro, a global cybersecurity leader, recently hosted the Threat Experts Summit (TES) in Cebu City from February 28 to March 2. Some 150 threat experts from around the world, from North America, Asia, and Europe, gathered for the three-day summit to explore tactics, trends, and countermeasures for the ever-increasing dangers in cyberspace.

About 150 threat experts from around the globe convened in Mactan, Cebu to discuss growing cybersecurity concerns.

With The Power of One as its theme, the summit sought to strengthen the international community of threat researchers and subject matter experts in the face of growing cybersecurity concerns everywhere.

Participants engaged in group exercises in threat mitigation, discussions on global cybersecurity trends, and team-building exercises.

To underscore the importance and urgency of a more empowered cybersecurity community, in 2022, Trend Micro blocked an astounding 146,408,535,569 attacks, including email threats, malicious URLs, and malicious files.

With this context, the conference gave participants a platform to talk about the most recent developments in cybersecurity and to devise plans for fending off future threats.

This is the second time since the summit was launched in 2015 that the Threat Experts Summit has been held in Cebu and is the first major gathering for Trend Micros threat researchers since the lifting of pandemic restrictions.

The Philippines is very dear to Trend Micro and presents massive opportunities for growth. We need to narrow the cybersecurity skills gap versus the ever-widening attack surface and build secure infrastructure. There is still so much to improve on to equip us against future threats, said Alma Saturnino-Alvarez, Trend Micros Director of Threat Hunting and Cybersecurity Education.

Trend Micro has aggressively championed cybersecurity in the Philippines, with events like the TES, strategic partnerships in private and public spaces, informative training, comprehensive workshops, and its annual public cybersecurity conference DECODE.

Weve had great feedback from our DECODE attendees in the past years, says Saturnino-Alvarez. With that, we are bringing DECODE back this 2023 to upgrade the information technology skills of Filipinos and provide the most recent knowledge on cybersecurity trends.

DECODE is held toward the end of the year. It is free and open to the public, with some of the threat experts from the TES returning to speak.
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An acrobat died after falling from a height during a performance with her husband in China's central Anhui province.

The 37-year-old woman surnamed Sun, succumbed to her injuries after falling during a flying-trapeze performance in the city of Suzhou on Friday, local authorities said, promising an in-depth investigation.

Footage of the performance shows the gymnast unexpectedly falling from a great height onto the stage after an aerial stunt with her husband, surnamed Zhang, went wrong. Her husband failed to catch her with his legs as the duo transitioned mid-air.

She was rushed to a hospital but eventually died despite the efforts to revive her.

The incident has raised public concern about the safety of aerial acrobatic performances in the country, with social media users calling on authorities to increase safety measures for such acts.

The performance was held by a local family farm and all the personnel and partners involved in the incident are under investigation, Global Times reported.

A manager of the performance company, surnamed Wag, said that the couple were experienced performers but had an argument on the night of the accident and the gymnast did not buckle her safety belt.

The claim was refuted by the gymnast's husband, who said thay were not in a dispute before the accident and always had "a good relationship".

"We were always happy together. As I am in the middle of the process of dealing with all of this, I can't disclose any specific details at this time," the husband said on Sunday.

According to witnesses, there was no safety cushion on the stage, while it was difficult for the ambulance to arrive at the venue due to narrow roads that went into the village.

There were no first-aid personnel or emergency measures in place, either.

According to China Daily, an agreement signed by the farms owner and the performance company said it is the latter that is responsible for performance safety.

Future performances by the company, which has not been named, were immediately suspended.

The gymnast is survived by her husband and their two children.
A Chinese man has been shot dead after he was allegedly mistaken for a hare, authorities said.

The man has been identified as Wang Moujin, who drowned in a ditch after being shot in the head with an air gun, reported BBC.

Typically used for target shooting, air guns use compressed air.
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Chinas defence minister Li Shangfu congratulated the "extraordinary" Vladimir Putin for promoting world peace" despite Moscow's year-long war in Ukraine, according to reports.

A clip posted on Chinese company NetEase Incs video platform appears to show Mr Li reading a prepared remark from a notebook in a meeting with the Russian president and defence minister Sergei Shoigu on Sunday.

Their meeting took place days after Chinese president Xi Jinping met his Russian counterpart in Moscow last month.

Mr president is an extraordinary state leader deeply loved by the Russian people, has made excellent achievements in leading the development and revitalisation of Russia, and made important contributions to promoting world peace and development, Mr Li said, according to Bloomberg.

I hereby pay my sincerest respects to you.

The statement highlighted the strong ties between the two nations even as China positioned itself as a peacebroker in the war.

Beijing has declared a no-limits friendship with Russia and has refused to condemn Moscows invasion of Ukraine, while adding that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries be respected.

China has, however, condemned Western sanctions on Russia and accused Nato of provoking Moscow.

Mr Xi has spoken to his Russian counterpart on multiple occasions since the onset of the war in February 2022, but is yet to have a dialogue with Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky.

During Sunday's meeting, Mr Putin and the Chinese defence minister hailed military cooperation between the two nations.

"We are working actively through our military departments, regularly exchange useful information, work together in the field of military-technical cooperation, and hold joint exercises," Mr Putin said.

The exercises, he added, had been held in the Far East as well as Europe and involved ground, naval and air forces.

"Undoubtedly, this is another crucial area that strengthens the extremely trusting, strategic nature of our relations," Mr added.

Mr Putin, meanwhile, visited security forces in parts of the southern Kherson region in occupied Ukraine, the Kremlin said on Tuesday.

A video released by the Kremlin showed Mr Putin visiting the command post for Russian forces in Kherson. He then moved by helicopter to the headquarters of the Russian National Guard in the Luhansk region to hear reports about the situation there.

Russia took the Kherson and Luhansk regions into its fold along with the Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia regions in September in a move that was rejected by most of the world as illegal annexation.
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Tim Cook has officially inaugurated Apples first retail store in India in his first trip to the country in seven years.

Social media videos showed Mr Cook waving at large crowds of Apple fans and potential customers outside the store in Mumbai, Indias financial hub.

The store is located at the Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), Mumbais main business district.

The energy, creativity, and passion in Mumbai is incredible! We are so excited to open Apple BKC  our first store in India, Mr Cook tweeted.

The stores grand opening was preceded by an event that featured local music and folk dance performances.

The hype around the tech giants products was exemplified at the opening by its fans.

One of them carried a vintage Apple computer which he said he bought in 1984  a watershed year for the company that aired its iconic George Orwell-themed Super Bowl commercial directed by Ridley Scott that advertised the first Macintosh personal computer.

The fan posed with Mr Cook and his Macintosh for a photo.

Apples chief executive officer Tim Cook welcomes consumers at the opening of the first Apple shop in Mumbai (EPA)

Apple is set to follow up the new stores launch with another store that will open in national capital Delhi on April 20.

The company was earlier unable to open a physical brick-and-mortar store in India because of regulatory restrictions around single-brand retail. The tech giant has until now sold its products via Indian partners like Imagine and Future World.

During Mr Cooks first trip to India in seven years, he also met Bollywood star Madhuri Dixit.

In the new stores, sales will reportedly be less prioritised, allowing for prospective customers to try Apples different products, including its iPhones and MacBooks.

The idea is to introduce more Indians to the Apple ecosystem.

The new stores have staff the company calls Apple Geniuses who can guide customers and offer technical advice to learn how to use the products.

The stores signal Apples growth in its business operations in India, with the company attempting to grow its supply chain outside China.

Apple CEO Tim Cook and Deirdre OBrien, Apples senior vice president of Retail and People greet people at the inauguration of Indias first Apple retail store (REUTERS)

Since Apple began manufacturing the iPhone in India in 2017, the country has accounted for about 5 per cent production of the companys iconic smartphones.

This week, as Apple celebrates more than 25 years in India, the company is marking a major expansion with the opening of its first Apple Store locations in the country, the company said in a statement.

India has such a beautiful culture and an incredible energy, and were excited to build on our long-standing history  supporting our customers, investing in local communities, and working together to build a better future with innovations that serve humanity, said Mr Cook.
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Police in India arrested a man who sexually harassed a Korean vlogger during her trip to the northern state of Rajasthan, according to reports.

The incident took place on Monday as the man spotted the woman roaming alone at the Pachetia hill in Jodhpur.

The accused, a 25-year-old man identified only by his first name Deepak, could be seen stalking the woman in a video she recorded of her harrowing experience as she climbed down the stairs of the walled city.

He overtook her at one point and waited for her down the stairs before flashing her. He then chased her as she called for help.

Sharing the clip on Twitter, the chairperson of Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) demanded that state authorities take action against the man.

Just came across this video of a Korean vlogger who posted a video of her being sexually harassed in Jodhpur, wrote Swati Maliwal. This is extremely disgusting and shameful. People like these are spoiling the image of our great country, she wrote, tagging the states chief minister Ashok Gehlot.

The accused is mentally sick and keeps roaming around, police official Dinesh Lakhawat was quoted as saying by Times Now. He added that the man was now in police custody. We have arrested him for disturbing the peace as no complaint has been made by the tourist about the incident.

This is not an isolated instance of foreign tourists being harassed in India.

In March, a 29-year-old Dutch tourist was molested and stabbed, allegedly by a resort staff, hours after she arrived for a yoga retreat at the popular Indian tourist destination of Goa.

The accused, identified as one Abhishek Verma, trespassed into her tent, and also stabbed another person attempting to help the tourist, said the police.

In Delhi, a Japanese woman was sexually assaulted by a group of men during the celebration of the Hindu festival of Holi.

The young woman could be seen in a video being groped by five or six men who forcefully smeared her face with colours while screaming "happy Holi", smashed an egg on her head and shoved her around.

The city police arrested three persons, including a juvenile, in connection with the incident. The woman left for Bangladesh soon after the incident.
The suspect who threw a smoke bomb towards Fumio Kishida on Saturday has previously sued the government.

He had a history of seeking damages from the government and claimed that he was unfairly barred from running for the Upper House election, according to reports.

Japans Yomiuri newspaper reported that suspect Ryuji Kimura filed a lawsuit in the Kobe district court last June and claimed he could not run for the election held on 10 July last year due to his age and inability to prepare a three million yen (18,000) deposit.
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At least two people have been killed after a massive landslide struck northwestern Pakistan and buried two dozen trucks at a key trade route.

The landslide occurred on the main route connecting the Pakistan-Afghanistan border near Torkham town at 2.30am on Tuesday, according to a statement by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Disaster Management Authority cited by the Dawn newspaper.

The border crossing is a key trade route between Pakistan and Afghanistan as well as other central Asian countries.

Landslides in the area are known to block roads frequently, with the current one being triggered by lightning during heavy rain.

Around 15-20 cargo vehicles have been buried, with firefighters and rescue teams from Khyber, Peshawar, Nowshera, Charsadda and Mardan areas participating in rescue operations, said the statement. Officials have also warned there could be another landslide.

The teams are involved in trying to save truck drivers and other people hit by the landslide, police official Ishrat Khan was quoted as saying to the Associated Press.

According to rescuers, one truck had caught fire after it was struck by lightning.

Bilal Faizi, a spokesperson for a state-run rescue service, said two bodies were pulled out and eight people were injured.

The injured have been taken to a nearby hospital.

Paramilitary soldiers stand guard as authorities use heavy machines to search survivors and clear the rubble following a landslide in northwestern Pakistan on Tuesday (AP)

Authorities said volunteers also joined in the search for survivors and heavy machinery has been dispatched to Torkham to try and remove rocks and other debris.

Rescuers are very careful because there is a possibility of another landslide but they are risking their lives to pull out those feared trapped, Mr Faizi was quoted as saying.

Officials said 12 ambulances, four fire vehicles, three recovery vehicles and three heavy excavators were deployed at the site.

Mr Faizi told Dawn that a fire had broken out immediately after the landslide as drivers were cooking meals on gas stoves.

The blaze is now under control, he said.

Additional reporting by agencies
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Its only been about seven months since Apples iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro were released, but the rumour mill waits for no one. Gossip about the upcoming iPhone 15, expected to launch in September, is ringing loudly. And if the rumours are true, we could be about to see the biggest upgrade since the iPhone X.

Although the iPhone 14 Pro marked a significant departure from the iPhone 13, notably due to the absence of the much-criticised notch at the top of the device (now replaced with the more elegant Dynamic Island), there could be even more to get excited about with the upcoming iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max.

There are new reports and rumours landing almost weekly, with claims that the iPhone 15 could ditch the lightning port in favour of USB-C for the first time. Other rumours suggest that Apple could also remove the mechanical volume and power buttons on its handsets and replace them with solid-state ones, give the Pro line-up a new titanium design and yes, even launch an iPhone 15 Ultra in 2024. And we cant forget the murmurings about the elusive Apple VR headset.

Below, weve rounded up all the iPhone 15 rumours you need to know, including speculation on the release date, potential specs, price and design.

Apple iPhone 15 release date: When will the new smartphones launch?

Although an iPhone 15 release date has yet to be revealed (we wont be getting that until Apples launch event), Apple is a fairly predictable beast when it comes to iPhone release dates. The company almost always announces its new line of smartphones in the first two weeks of September. For example, the iPhone 14 was unveiled on Wednesday 7 September 2022 and the iPhone 13 on Tuesday 14 September 2021.

Apple usually prefers Tuesdays when it comes to its iPhone events, so the two most likely dates for an iPhone 15 event would be Tuesday 5 September or Tuesday 12 September. Can we speculate as to which day itll choose? We sure can.

Apple CEO Tim Cook delivers keynote address at Apples special event on 7 September 2022 (Getty Images)

Its Labor Day in the US on Monday 4 September, and its unlikely that Apple will host an event straight after a long weekend, leaving 12 September as the most likely date. Apple usually releases its newest iPhone roughly 10 days after the Apple event, so were ear-marking a 22 September launch date.

Obviously, this is all still conjecture, and we wont know until we hear it from Tim Cook himself, but one leakers report lines up with our basic mathematics. According to Haitong International Securities analyst Jeff Pus sources in the supply chain, the iPhone 15 could launch on 23 September 2023. Thats a Saturday, but if we adjust for time zone differences, a 22 September launch date sounds feasible.

Apple iPhone 15 price: How much could the new handsets cost?

Rumours ahead of the Apple event last year suggested that the iPhone 14 could get a 15 per cent price hike in the US when the phones were revealed, as a result of the global economic downturn and increased prices of components.

While the rumour turned out to be incorrect for the US market, all four handsets appeared to get a price hike in the UK, with prices jumping from between 70 for the base iPhone 14 and 150 for the iPhone 14 Pro.

Rumours that the iPhone 14 could get a 15 per cent price hike in the US turned out to be incorrect (AFP via Getty Images)

Could we see another price hike for the iPhone 15? It appears the leakers are a little wary of reporting about price increases after dropping the ball last year. Weve had one unverified report from Chinese social media platform Weibo suggesting that the iPhone 15 Pro models will be getting a price increase this year, with Jeff Pu backing up that claim in a research note in March.

A blog post from Korean firm Naver also suggests that the base iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus could also get a price cut to make the non-Pro devices more enticing to customers, who have seemingly shunned the Plus device, as they did with the iPhone Mini.

Apple iPhone 15 design, specs and features

While the iPhone 14 Plus hasnt been a roaring success, with a lukewarm response from consumers, it appears the company may continue to power on and manufacture four iPhone 15 models this year, according to market intelligence firm TrendForce. That would give us the iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max.

Bloombergs Mark Gurman also indicated that an iPhone Ultra could rear its head in the next couple of years, but says that its more likely to feature for the iPhone 16 range than the iPhone 15. If true, it would mean Apple will ditch the floundering iPhone Plus and Mini models in favour of a beefier Ultra model, which Gurman says will need to differentiate itself from the Pro models.

There are a few renders swimming out there in terms of the design of the iPhone 15 Pro. In February, 9to5Mac obtained renders of the device based on a CAD model from a case manufacturer. In the render, it appears that the curved display is making a return for the first time since the iPhone 11 Pro, with another leaker suggesting that the iPhone 15 Pro will have curved edges with thinner bezels.

The renders also suggest that there will, once again, be two 6.1in iPhones and two 6.7in iPhones. Jeff Pu also claimed in his research note that he expects the Pro models to feature a titanium frame.

The lightning port has also been removed in the render in favour of a USB-C port, which seems to be the most plausible rumour so far (given the political wrangling with the EU). Another report from Gurman suggests that all four iPhone 15 models will also get the Dynamic Island from the iPhone 14 Pro, shrinking the notches down for every device.

A report in October from reliable analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggested that the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max could also lose their physical mechanical buttons in favour of solid-state buttons. The buttons would work similar to the home button on the iPhone 7 and 8. On those phones, the button could be mistaken for a real one  but was actually just a touch pad that used precise vibrations to feel as if it was being pressed down.

However, in a Medium post published on 12 April, Kuo backtracked on the report about the transition to solid-state buttons. My latest survey indicates that due to unresolved technical issues before mass production, both high-end iPhone 15 Pro models (Pro & Pro Max) will abandon the closely-watched solid-state button design and revert to the traditional physical button design, Kuo said.

And for those of you waiting for Apple to bring back Touch ID (or an in-display fingerprint sensor), weve got bad news. It might not be happening after all. In Mark Gurmans PowerOn newsletter, he claimed that, while the company had been testing in-display sensors, Face ID would be here to stay for the foreseeable future. Twitter leaker Unknownz21 corroborated this claim in a tweet posted in late March.

Rumours about the specs of the iPhone 15 are still slim on the ground, but one rumour suggests that Apple will continue to differentiate the iPhone 15 and the iPhone 15 Pro by giving the Pro model phones an all-new A17 chip, while the base models will use an A16 Bionic chip.

The A17 Bionic chip is rumoured to be a 3-nanometer powerhouse, making it faster and more efficient. This report comes courtesy of Digitimes and Taiwanese manufacturer TSMC, who manufactures Apples silicon. The report was corroborated in a report from Nikkei.

Consumers could also be getting more RAM in their devices, according to a TrendForce report, which claims that the next series of iPhone 15 devices could get a boost in RAM, with Pu claiming 8GB instead of 6GB for the Pro models.

This ones a little sketchy, so get your handfuls of salt, but a rumour picked up by MacRumours claims that Apple will be removing the mute button on the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, replacing it with an action button that will presumably work like the action button the Apple Watch Ultra. The report suggests that you may be able to customise the action button to perform various functions. A further report published on 17 April suggests that this action button will be the new way of powering off your iPhone.

Apple iPhone 15 camera rumours

If theres one thing we can guarantee when it comes to iPhone upgrades, its that the camera is going to get a spec boost.

In the aforementioned Jeff Pu report, the analyst claims that the iPhone 15 Pro could get a periscope camera, which would improve long-range photography and zoom. This was rumoured for the iPhone 14 Pro as well, however, and it didnt materialise. The renders above do show that the iPhone 15 Pro Max has a slightly bigger camera bump, potentially there to house a periscope camera.

This rumour was given credence in June 2022 when leaker Ming-Chi Kuo stated that the iPhone 15 Pro Max would be the only iPhone to get a periscope camera in 2023, giving the iPhone a 6x optical zoom. Samsung was the first to popularise periscope cameras in 2020 when it launched the Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra.

The current iPhone 14 pro features a main, ultre-wide and telephoto lens (Getty Images)

And, according to a research note from Nomura analysts, the base iPhone 15s cameras will also get some significant improvements. Lower-end i15 models will have main cameras (wide) upgraded to 48MP with image sensor size at 1/1.5 which is slightly smaller than the i14 Pros 48MP sensor size, but much better than i14s 12MP, the note read.

The verdict: Apple iPhone 15 rumours

While everything here should be taken with a pinch of salt, the rumours regarding the iPhone 15 are promising indeed. If true, we could be seeing the first iPhones with a USB-C port, a Dynamic Island for the base iPhone 15 models and a periscope camera for the Pro-level devices, as well as a titanium frame and a curved screen. Well be keeping an eye out for more leaks and rumours right up until the likely release date in September.

Best Apple iPhone 14 deals

If your phone is feeling sluggish and you just cant wait until the iPhone 15 comes out to upgrade, the iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro are worthy handsets. Weve outlined a few of the best deals below and also have a round-up of the best refurbished iPhone deals.

Apple iPhone 14, 128GB: Was 849, now 764, Amazon.co.uk

(Apple)

The base iPhone 14 currently has 10 per cent off at Amazon. This is a fast and attractive smartphone, with Apples excellent design and build quality, boasting now-routine features, such as water resistance and strong screen, and a significantly improved camera, our writer said in their review. The iPhone 14s internal upgrades, from camera to crash detection, are pretty extraordinary, all for a price less than the iPhone 13 pro, with which it shares the same processor.

If youd prefer to buy it with a contract, the best deal weve spotted is from Sky Mobile, who is offering a 3GB data contract for 32 per month. There is no up-front cost, and while the contract lasts for 36 months, you can upgrade your phone after 24 months (32 per month, Sky.com).

Apple iPhone 14 Pro, 128GB: Was 1,099, now 1,039, Amazon.co.uk

(Amazon )

The savings arent as good on the iPhone 14 Pro as they are on the common iPhone 14, but you can still save a modest 60 at Amazon. The iPhone 14 Pro is a powerful, beautiful smartphone. Our writer said in their review. At a time when many talk of incremental improvements or how phones have plateaued, the new pro handset is a real, chunky upgrade, offering slick new software, much better cameras and, in Dynamic Island, the kind of genuine innovation weve come to expect from Apple.

Again, the cheapest iPhone 14 contract deal weve spotted is from Sky Mobile. The company is offering up 3GB of data for 41 per month. There is no up-front cost, and you can swap your phone after 24 months (41 per month, Sky.com).

Tariff comparison

For the latest offers on mobile phone contracts, try the links below:

For more, why not check out our roundup of the best budget smartphones of 2023?
When Hilma af Klint had her first substantial British showing at the Serpentine Gallery in 2016, she appeared a fascinating if very niche figure. The early 20th-century Swedish mystical painter had produced completely abstract paintings at around the same time, if not slightly earlier, than Kandinsky, Malevich, Mondrian and the other great dons of Modernism.

The fact that Af Klint was a spiritualist medium whose works had, she believed, been commissioned by higher powers, seemed to confine her relevance to a quirky substratum of Modern Art; a kind of rarefied outsider artist. The fact that her paintings had remained hidden, at the artists request, until 20 years after her death in 1944, was all part of the wacky back story.

Seven tumultuous years after that Serpentine show  a period in which established cultural canons have been challenged at every turn  Af Klint is now definitively established as the First Abstract Artist. Her paintings spiritual origins, meanwhile, seem on trend with a new visionary turn in art. This is evident in everything from Marguerite Humeaus speculative realities, currently showing at White Cube, to Jade Fadojutimis Manga-inspired abstract mindscapes, which command the highest prices of any young British painter of recent times.
The killing of a former Indian MP Atiq Ahmed and his brother Ashraf on live television has led to severe backlash against the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) by the opposition.

Ahmed was a member of Indias parliament and the Uttar Pradesh (UP) state legislative assembly. He had over 100 criminal cases registered against him, including murder, attempt to murder, kidnapping and extortion, among others, according to the Indian Express.

Police records also showed that he headed a gang of 144 members in UPs Prayagraj city.
A full emergency was declared at the Indira Gandhi International Aiport in Delhi after a plane with 230 passengers onboard suffered a technical failure on Saturday.

An IndiGo fight, bound for Bagdogra in West Bengal, was scheduled to land around 4.10pm but was forced to make an emergency landing at the Delhi airport.

The airline said in a statement that the IndiGo flight 6E 6282 from Delhi to Bagdogra returned to Delhi as a precaution.
Vladimir Putin has met with his military commanders in two occupied areas of Ukraine, while Russian forces up artillery bombardments and air strikes on the devastated city of Bakhmut.

The Kremlin said the Russian president attended a military command meeting in the Kherson region and visited a national guard headquarters in eastern Luhansk on Monday.

Among the military leaders to meet with Mr Putin was air force commander Mikhail Teplinsky - who the British Military of Defence said had likely been given a major role in the war.
Emmanuel Macron is said to be looking to make arrangements with China that could see talks held between Russia and Ukraine by the summer.

The French president is believed to have asked his foreign policy advisor, Emmanuel Bonne, to reach out to his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi with the final aim of setting up negotiations.

On a recent trip to China, Mr Macron was seemingly unable to convince President Xi to finally speak with President Volodymyr Zelensky after a silence between the pair that has lasted since Moscow invaded Ukraine.
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Former Love Is Blind contestants have described the allegedly unsafe working conditions they faced while filming the show, with multiple stars opening up about panic attacks and poor mental health they experienced on set.

Although Love Is Blind is currently one of Netflixs most popular reality shows, many former stars have now opened up about their negative experiences filming for the show while speaking to Insider.

Danielle Ruhl, who got married to Nick Thompson during season two of the show, said that she underwent a psychological screening before filming. However, she confessed that she felt like she shouldnt have passed the screening, as she claimed shed discussed her history of mental illness and previous attempted suicide.

Looking back Im like, they are only doing that to check the box, she said. They didnt care.

Speaking to Insider, contestants also said that they sign a contract which allegedly states that appearing on the show could expose their personal, private, surprising, defamatory, disparaging, embarrassing, or unfavourable information. The document also allegedly warns contestants they could be subject to public ridicule, humiliation or condemnation due to their appearances on Love Is Blind.

Ruhl also shared how producers allegedly responded to her mental health challenges while filming, specifically during her post-engagement trip to Mexico with Thompson, with the former reality star recalling panic attacks on set.

According to Ruhl, when she was left alone in a hotel room after producers were concerned she had Covid-19, she confessed that she started to feel more anxious. Along with being worried about her absence on the show, she felt stressed because she had recently told Thompson about a traumatic experience from her past.

She said that she then experienced a panic attack in her closet, where shed gone in order to make sure she wasnt on camera. Ruhl claimed that when Thompson returned, he tried to tell producers that he and his then-fiancee did not want to be on the show anymore. She also reportedly told producers that she was struggling with her mental health and did not want to keep filming.

I kept telling them: I dont trust myself, she said. Ive tried committing suicide before. Im having suicidal thoughts. I dont think I can continue in this.

However, she claimed that producers kept telling her to stay and said things like: Youre the love story, or youre Lauren and Cameron, referring to season one couple Lauren Speed and Cameron Hamilton, who got married during their finale.

(MONTY BRINTON/NETFLIX)

Speaking to Insider, Thompson said contestants werent offered proper mental health services throughout filming or after it, despite intense scrutiny contestants often face when the show airs.

You thrust us into this situation without any support, and everythings amplified, he said. It literally ruins lives.

A season one contestant, Brianna Holmes, also revealed that she had a panic attack in the pods, after the man she was dating through a wall said that he was skeptical about marrying her.

She recalled the experience to Insider, with Holmes revealing she exited the pods in Atlanta while shaking and sobbing. However, she claimed that producers and film crew continued to follow her.

They literally chased me off of the set to the trailers, cameras in my face, Holmes said. Im like, this is too much. I dont want this. I dont want to be here. I dont want to do this.

She confessed that she left the show that day amid the pressure to get engaged to a stranger in less than two weeks. Its a lot, she explained. None of it was scripted. Everything you see is real. These are peoples real lives and real emotions.

Along with mental health challenges, multiple contestants claimed that they werent offered enough food or water when filming. Ruhl alleged food would run out in the womens living quarters.

I remember every time wed get to the freaking kitchen, thered be like one hard-boiled egg and it was like a fight to see like, who could actually get the stuff, she said.

The comments echoed season two contestant Jeremy Hartwells lawsuit against the Netflix show, which was filed in July 2022. In the legal document, he claimed that cast members were only given alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, energy drinks and mixers and that hydrating drinks such as water were limited.

The lawsuit also claimed that, through a combination of sleep deprivation, isolation, lack of food and an excess of alcohol all either required, enabled or encouraged by the Love Is Blind team, it created inhumane working conditions and altered mental state for the cast.

(MONTY BRINTON/NETFLIX)

Kinetic Content issued a statement to The Independent regarding the lawsuit last year, in which the firm said there was no merit to Harwells claims and that the company would vigorously defend against them.

Speaking to Insider, Hartwell claimed that, when he contacted Kinetics talent-relations manager, Erin Page, in February 2022, he was told that his complaints were being taken seriously. However, he alleged that a month after this conversation, someone from Kinetics legal counsel called him and denied his claims.

Contestants also reiterated Harwells comments about rest, claiming that they werent given enough hours to sleep when dating in the pods. The pods stage was a total of 10 days, with cast members required to film up to 20 hours a day. The filming schedule included dates, confessional interviews, and talking to other contestants in the living quarters.

The sleep deprivation was real, season one contestant Danielle Drouin said. I feel like they do it on purpose because theyre trying to break you. They want you on your edge.

After dating in the pods, couples return to their hometowns and live together, before saying I do or I do not at the altar.

In his lawsuit, Hartwell also alleged that Love Is Blind stars werent properly compensated for their time on the show. He claimed castmates are paid $1,000 per week, up to $8,000 for the length of filming the show. He claimed that production paid them less than half of the applicable minimum wage rate of $15 per hour in California, despite the cast working up to 20 hours a week.

He added that contestants couldnt leave the show until filming was done or else theyd have to pay $50,000, which could have caused them to fear the showrunners.

According to some former stars who spoke to Insider, when they left Love Is Blind, they struggled to return to their everyday lives, with Holmes alleging she quit her job as a mental-health counsellor because it reminded her about her time on the Netflix show.

She also acknowledged how disappointed she was about not getting any screen time, as she didnt get engaged on the show. It made it feel like everything I went through was for nothing, Holmes said. I wasnt good enough to make it more than 30 seconds on the show? It was like a smack in the face.

Thompson claimed that, after filming ended and when his season premiered, Kinetic didnt keep in touch with him and that he only got a few calls from a mental health professional, hired by Kinetic, who asked him how he was doing. When he told them that he wasnt good or that his marriage was ultimately falling apart, he claimed that the professional would respond with: Okay, let us know if you need anything.

It felt like checking a box, he said, alleging that he asked people at Kinetic to connect him with marriage therapists. I literally begged for help, and I didnt get it. Like, I want to fix my marriage that youve thrust us into for profit. And it was nothing.

Thompson also said that when the news broke in August 2022 that he and Ruhl had divorced, he received messages from people online who called him abusive and questioned his sexuality. It was brutal, he said. Thats when I started to crumble mentally.

Meanwhile, Ruhl confessed that shes been working on improving her mental health since filming wrapped. She also noted that she attended trauma therapy after her experience on Love Is Blind. I dont think that Ive felt myself since before filming, she said. Im trying to refind who I am because it f***ed with me so much.

Although Netflix didnt respond to Insiders request for comment, Kinetic Content said in a statement to the outlet: The wellbeing of our participants is of paramount importance to Kinetic. We have rigorous protocols in place to care for each person before, during, and after filming.

The Independent has contacted representatives for Kinetic Content and Netflix for comment.
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The moment King Charles III is anointed during his coronation on 6 May will be one of stillness and simplicity, the Archbishop of Canterbury has said.

In his foreword for the official coronation souvenir programme, Justin Welby said the sacred ceremony will be the only part of the ceremony the public will not see.

He wrote of the magnificence and pomp of the historic occasion  Britains first coronation since that of the late Queen Elizabeth II in 1953  but added: In the midst of this glorious spectacle is a moment of stillness and simplicity.

Welby also revealed that during the mysterious anointing ceremony, the King will swap his robes of status and honour for a simple white shirt.

This signifies the monarch as coming before God as a servant in the full knowledge that the task is difficult and he needs help.

In the full knowledge that, even as King, he is one of the people and that even if he has a particular role to fulfil, he shares in our human frailties and vulnerabilities, the archbishop continued.

It also marks the moment that the King is set apart for service: service of the people of this country and service of God. This is why at this moment he will exchange robes of status and honour for a simple white shirt.

His Majesty will follow in his mothers footsteps in blocking the anointing ceremony from public view.

King Charles, previously the Prince of Wales, greets the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby in 2013. The monarch will be anointed by the Archbishop during the coronation ceremony on 6 May 2023 (Getty Images)

Although Queen Elizabeths coronation was the first ever to be televised, she sat under a canopy that was held above her by four Knights of the Garter that shielded her from the cameras when the moment of the anointing arrived.

Welby described how coronations often carry with them the hopes and prayers of nations for peace, justice and the common good.

The 84-page official souvenir costs 20 and went on sale on Monday (17 April). It features a family portrait of Charles and Camilla, the now-Prince and Princess of Wales and their children, and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.

It comes after Buckingham Palace confirmed that Prince Harry will attend the ceremony, but his wife Meghan Markle will remain in California with their two children.

A percentage of the sales of the souvenir programme will be divided between the Royal Collection Trust and SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity.

Additional reporting by PA
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King Charles III and Queen Camilla have chosen a quiche as their signature dish for the upcoming coronation, but the decision has received mixed reactions amidst an ongoing egg shortage in the United Kingdom.

Ahead of the Kings coronation on Saturday 6 May, the royal couple unveiled the recipe for their coronation quiche to be enjoyed at Big Lunch events being staged as part of the coronation. The recipe for the open-baked savoury tart includes spinach, broad beans, tarragon, cheese, and of course, eggs.

Following the announcement, many royal watchers took to social media to share their thoughts about the classic French dish. While some fans expressed their excitement at baking the quiche for themselves, others couldnt help but notice that the coronation quiche contains eggs  which have faced soaring supermarket prices since the avian flu outbreak late last year.

Coronation quiche when theres an egg shortage lmaoooo, tweeted one person. Theyre so tone deaf its comical.

Read the room, poshos, another said. People cant afford their weekly shop anymore.

There are no f***ing eggs in the supermarkets, tweeted someone else, replying to another user in a separate tweet: Let them eat quiche

In response to the coronation quiche, another Twitter user pointed out that 21.6 per cent of households with children in the UK reported that their children had directly experienced food insecurity in the past month.

Thats a 10 per cent increase in a year, she said, citing a January survey from The Food Foundation.

Another user simply shared a picture of an empty supermarket shelf filled with bare egg cartons, writing: And what are we supposed to make this Coronation Quiche with?

The production cost of eggs has soared as shortages across the UK have continued to impact shoppers and supermarkets. Since last year, farmers have faced a host of issues impacting egg supplies, including rising energy costs and an avian bird flu outbreak.

In August, the British Free Range Egg Producers Association (BFREPA) called for more support for egg producers after Russias invasion of Ukraine caused a chicken feed shortage. BFREPA warned that if egg producers dont receive at least 40p per dozen more, some would leave the industry or pause production, leading to shortages of British eggs in six to nine months, according to FarmingUK.

We warned ten months ago that producers would pause or halt production if they werent paid a fair price for their product, and that the knock-on effect would be fewer hens and fewer eggs, the BFREPA said in November.

Soon after, Britain was faced with its biggest-ever outbreak of avian flu, which led farmers to keep all poultry and any captive bird inside and prompted supermarkets to ration egg supplies. According to INews, UK poultry farms have recorded over 330 bird flu outbreaks since October 2021. BFREPA also reported that a number of major retailers increased their egg prices last month, such as Asda who raised the cost of 12 large free range eggs by 33p to 2.80.

This week, King Charles III and Queen Camilla shared the recipe for their coronation quiche by posting a video of a palace chef making the quiche to social media. The royal familys website described it as a deep quiche with a crisp, light pastry case and delicate flavours of spinach, broad beans and fresh tarragon.

Eat hot or cold with a green salad and boiled new potatoes  perfect for a Coronation Big Lunch! it read.

For the late Queen Elizabeth IIs coronation in 1953, guests were invited to eat coronation chicken at Buckingham Palace after the ceremony. The dish featured cold chicken in a curry cream sauce with a well-seasoned dressed salad of rice, green peas and mixed herbs.

The coronation takes place on Saturday 6 May at Westminster Abbey in London.
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The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are included in the official souvenir programme for the coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla.

A family portrait from 2018 is featured, showing Charles and Camilla, then the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall; Prince William and Kate Middleton, previously the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, and their three children.

It was taken to mark Charless 70th birthday in 2018 and came six months after Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were married at St Georges Chapel in Windsor.

Two portraits were taken for Charless birthday. One shows the family looking at the camera head-on, with Charles, Camilla, Prince George and Princess Charlotte sat on a bench, while William and Kate, who is holding a baby Prince Louis, and Harry and Meghan stand behind them.

The second photograph, which is in the 20 programme, shows them in a more relaxed state, with Meghan, Camilla, Kate and George laughing at something behind the camera. Both were taken by royal photographer Chris Jackson.

Some reports have suggested that the inclusion of the photo is an olive branch to the Sussexes, as their rift with the royal family continues.

Last week, Buckingham Palace confirmed that Harry will be attending the coronation on 6 May, after months of speculation over his presence. However, Meghan will remain at their California home with their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.

(Chris Jackson/Clarence House)

The coronation falls on the same day as Archies fourth birthday and is said to have been a factor in the couples decision.

According to The Telegraph, Harry held peace talks with his father before confirming his attendance at the coronation.

The publication cited a friend of the couple as saying there had been some positive conversations between Harry and Charles. However, there was reportedly no reconciliation between Harry and William.

The front cover of the official souvenir programme celebrating the coronation of King Charles III and the Queen Consort (PA)

The programme contains a foreword by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, who revealed some details about the mysterious anointing ceremony that will take place during the coronation.

Welby wrote about the magnificence and pomp of the historic occasion, but said the anointing of the King will be a moment of stillness and simplicity.

It is the only part of the coronation that will be shielded from public view, as it was during the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953.
 Close Prince Harry's lawyer arrives at High Court ahead of privacy claim against The Sun's publisher

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The Duke of Sussex has said he felt like the tabloid press was a third party in all of his relationships.

In court documents revealed at the High Court in London on Tuesday, Harry said he always tried to be the best partner he could be, but every woman has her limit.

He said that the tabloid press always became involved in his relationships, and tried to ruin them.

Whenever I have been in a relationship, I have always tried to be the best partner that I possibly could, but every woman has her limit, he said in a witness statement.

Unfortunately, they are not just in a relationship with me but with the entire tabloid press as a third party.

At no point did I have a girlfriend or a relationship with anyone without the tabloids getting involved and ultimately ruining it, or trying to ruin it, using whatever unlawful means at their disposal.

Meanwhile, the court also heard that the Prince of Wales allegedly reached a settlement, that the late queen was aware of, with publisher News Group Newspapers over claims of hacking.
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The UK is not ready for the next global pandemic because public services are being dismantled and key research is being defunded, experts have claimed.

More than three years after the global outbreak of coronavirus, top scientists have warned that the UK is no better prepared for a pandemic than it was in 2020.

They say another epidemic on the scale of Covid-19 is inevitable, but that disinvestment in infection-monitoring services, dismantling of key infrastructure, and the state of the NHS mean the country is losing ground.

The warning comes as virologists told The Independent that the new Covid-19 variant behind a surge of 10,000 new Covid cases a day in India may turn more aggressive, and could become the dominant strain in the UK.

The variant, first identified in January and known as Arcturus, has been found in 22 countries, including the UK and the US, and has prompted India to resume its production of vaccines.

Sitting ducks

Sir John Bell, a leading immunologist and a member of the UKs Covid vaccine taskforce during the pandemic, said it was too easy to dismiss Covid-19 as a once in a generation crisis.

Writing in The Independent, he warned that it is a question of when, not if, another pandemic strikes, adding that the nation needs to adopt an always on approach that includes building a more resilient healthcare system, carrying out better surveillance, and identifying future threats.

Despite everything we have learned, we are not ready for the next pandemic, he wrote. The next pandemic could be even more devastating than the last. We must be in a constant state of readiness for the next big health crisis  if we do not act now, we will not be forgiven.

He referred to modelling that suggests there is a 38 per cent chance that another pandemic will happen within our lifetime, which would have the potential to cause even greater destruction.

Professor Teresa Lambe, one of the principal investigators leading the Oxford-AstraZeneca programme, said the UK had failed to take on board many hard-learned lessons from Covid. She warned that the public will be sitting ducks in a new pandemic if there are no further efforts by the government to invest in preparation.

She highlighted the governments decision to disband tracking systems  including its gold standard Covid survey, the last remaining system used to monitor infections  as a sign that the country would not be fully prepared for another pandemic.

Writing in The Independent, she described such surveillance systems as crucial for identifying new variants, tracking case numbers and helping the UK to tackle any virus spread. She added: We have learnt time and again that we need to track this virus carefully to distinguish if the current vaccine recommendations are enough.

She added: Without more of a concerted effort to work together and invest in pandemic preparedness, we are sitting ducks for the next virus.

Nothing has changed

Some experts also pointed to the issue of Covid-testing labs being mothballed, and plans to sell off the UKs future vaccine manufacturing and research laboratory  the UK Vaccine Manufacturing and Innovation Centre  before it had even opened.

In addition, after a year of record A&E waits, ambulance delays and escalating waiting lists, there are concerns that the NHS is now in a worse position to tackle a pandemic than it was when Covid struck three years ago.

Sir David King, a former chief scientific adviser to the government, who led the 2006 research that closely predicted the Covid pandemic, said the world is likely to see another virus outbreak on the same scale in the next 15 years.

He told The Independent: Were in the same position as we were in 2020. Nothing has changed... if anything it has got worse.

Sir David said the government had failed to invest in the NHS and he was in no doubt that it was in a worse position than it was three years ago.

The former government adviser added that, by failing to fund the health service or bolster Britains ability to respond to another pandemic, the government is discounting the future.

Thats what the pandemic in 2020 proved: that we had jettisoned all of the processes that would have managed the epidemic. I see no signs of this being reversed at the moment, he said.

If you wait for the next epidemic, which I think is where the government may be now  if you wait until the next vaccine is developed, for whatever disease that is, it will take months and months for that vaccine to arrive. We cannot rely on that. We will have many, many cases, itll get really out of hand again, and then well have hospitals completely overwhelmed by an outbreak of this kind.

Losing ground

Professor Peter Horby, the lead for the groundbreaking Covid Recovery trial and head of the Pandemic Sciences Institute, also warned that the UK would be ill-prepared if a new pandemic were to hit in the coming years.

The Oxford professor said that, despite the government backing scientific work during Covid, disinvestment since means that the UK is now losing ground. He claimed that researchers on the Covid Recovery trial  which was launched in 2020 and has identified four treatments for the disease  are having to rely on philanthropic funds because there is no sustained investment.

There were some good strategic moves by the UK government [in response to the pandemic], but I have been disappointed by whats happened since then, he said.

What weve seen is there has been the discontinuation of funding of some of the jewels in the crown of the UK response, like the ONS survey, like the Covid Geonomics Consortium, like the Recovery trial ... the mothballing of the [Covid lab] facilities.

Instead of building on the successes, [the government has] been dismantling the successes, and I find that a potential risk for the future.

He added: We may be back in the position that we saw ourselves in 2020, where weve got a new threat and we dont have the diagnostics, the drugs, the vaccine, or the surveillance capabilities that we would desire.

A government spokesperson said: We have flexible pandemic response plans which are kept under constant review and continuously updated to reflect the latest scientific information, lessons learned from exercises and our response to emergencies, including Covid, to ensure preparedness.

The UK Health Security Agency was set-up to combat future health threats and it continues to monitor the threat posed by Covid through surveillance systems and genomic capabilities, while maintaining our laboratory infrastructure and stock of lateral flow tests will ensure testing can be scaled up swiftly if a Covid wave results in significantly increased pressure on the NHS.

A record 14.1 billion of funding for health and social care over the next two years will help the NHS to address the unprecedented impact of Covid and cut waiting times.
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MPs have condemned the government for failing to tackle maternal health disparities as data shows Black women and women living in the most impoverished areas are more likely to die from childbirth.

A new report by the Women and Equalities Committee raised concerns NHS leaders and the government have underestimated how much racism drives inequalities as they urged ministers to establish a clear target to put an end to appalling inequalities in maternal deaths.

Black women are almost four times more likely to die from childbirth than white women, research published by MBRRACE-UK last November found.

The study, which looked at data from 2018 to 2020, also discovered maternal death rates in deprived areas are rising, with women living in the most impoverished parts of the country 2.5 times more likely to die than those in the least deprived areas.

Caroline Nokes, a Tory MP who is the committees chair, noted while NHS births are among the safest worldwide, appalling disparities in maternal deaths persist.

The MP for Romsey and Southampton North added: Improvements are not happening quickly enough. One of our biggest concerns is staffing shortages in maternity care. We need to see a sustained uplift in funding to bolster a workforce that has been stretched to its limits.

We are also afraid the government and NHS have not fully grasped that racism has played a key part in the complex reasons underlying the disparities, and that eradicating it is part of the solution.

It is unacceptable that we consistently hear poor quality data on ethnicity is hindering efforts to address inequality. The onus is on authorities to improve data collection practices. We cannot let these women remain invisible to the systems supposed to serve them.

MPs condemned the way the government has dealt with the taskforce established to address maternity care disparities, noting this was supposed to convene every two months but hasnt met for nine months.

While the committee raised concerns the taskforce doesnt make any reference to racism. MPs urged the taskforce to release clear-cut metrics for its progress, as well as update the committee every six months.

Discussing ethnic maternal death inequalities, MPs noted there were many possible reasons at play. Including pre-existing conditions and co-morbidities; socio-economic factors including deprivation; and factors impacting on the care that women received, including ignorance, bias, microaggressions and racism, the report stated.

Sandra Igwe, founder of The Motherhood Group, a social enterprise for Black mothers, said she was saddened but not surprised by the reports findings.

Ms Igwe noted the National Inquiry into Racial Injustice in Maternity Care which she co-chaired documented the traumatic experiences of Black and brown women who felt unheard and dehumanised through their pregnancy and birth which coincides with my lived experience also.

She added: We heard accounts of women whose worries were dismissed, including a Black woman who almost died of sepsis after healthcare professionals failed to hear her concerns or identify symptoms due to the colour of her skin.

One of the most common experiences described in the testimonies we received was of Black, brown and mixed ethnicity women and birthing peoples pain being ignored or denied, and of pain relief being withheld due to disbelief among staff that labour had begun.

Ms Igwe warned we must accept and acknowledge racism exists in the UK to be able to tackle health disparities in maternity care.

The year-long inquiry, carried out by pregnancy charity Birthrights, found systemic racism in maternity care means health professionals are endangering the safety and well-being of hundreds of women from Black and minority ethnic backgrounds.

The study, released in May last year, found racism is also impeding the dignity, choice, autonomy, and equality of women from Black and minority ethnic (BME) backgrounds.

BME women who presented evidence said they were subjected to racism and microaggressions, as well as damaging cultural assumptions. Respondents also reported coercion, incidents involving physical and psychological damage, and a dearth of choice and informed consent.

A representative for the Department of Health has been contacted for comment.
Sabina Mammadli

A group of Azerbaijans Combined Arms Army military personnel was sent to Turkiye to participate in the "Heydar Aliyev-2023" joint live-fire tactical drills dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the National Leader Heydar Aliyev, Azernews reports per Defense Ministry.

The ceremony was held on the occasion of the departure of the military personnel and equipment involved in the drills to be held in Kars.

After the performance of Azerbaijans National Anthem, Deputy Commander of the Combined Arms Army, Maj-Gen Rahim Jafarov spoke about the unshakable brotherhood between the two countries and the importance of conducting the joint drills.

Besides, it was noted that the main purpose of the drills is to ensure the interoperability between the troops during the battle, improve management, exchange of experience, and increase the professionalism of the servicemen.

After the speeches, the units involved in the drills left the city of Nakhchivan towards the Sadarak border checkpoint. The units crossing the Umid Bridge over the Araz river carried on in the direction of Kars.

Azerbaijan and Turkiye periodically hold joint drills to improve interaction and communication between their army units.

Military cooperation between Azerbaijan and Turkiye first emerged in 1992, with an agreement signed between the Azerbaijani and Turkish governments on military education and weapon equipment and deals to help strengthen the bond between the two nations.

On June 15, the two countries signed a memorandum of alliance that cemented the existing military, political and economic cooperation.

The Shusha Declaration on Allied Relations that President Ilham Aliyev and his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan signed during the first official visit to Shusha eight months after Azerbaijans victory in the war with Armenia, also focuses on defense cooperation.




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A new Covid strain behind a surge of infections in India has sparked fears it could also lead to a rise in cases in the UK.

Research indicates Arcturus could be one 1.2 times more infectious than the last major sub-variant.

Also known as Omicron subvariant XBB.1.16, the strain was first identified in January and has been monitored by the World Health Organisation (WHO) since 22 March, which upgraded it to a variant of interest in mid-April.

Addressing Arcturuss emergence at a press conference on 29 March, Dr Maria Van Kerkhove, the WHOs technical lead for Covid, said: Its been in circulation for a few months.

We havent seen a change in severity in individuals or in populations, but thats why we have these systems in place. It has one additional mutation in the spike protein, which, in lab studies, shows increased infectivity as well as potential increased pathogenicity.

The sub-variant, one of 600 spawned from Omicron so far but seemingly no more lethal than others, has been detected in 34 countries so far, including Britain and US.

In India, the countrys health ministry reported 63,380 active Covid cases on 25 April, part of a steady six-week rise that has prompted compulsory face masks to be introduced in some states, hospitals to carry out mock drills and vaccine production to be ramped up.

India was devastated by the Delta wave in 2021 and suffered a total of 4.7m excess deaths, according to WHO estimates.

Dr Vipin Vashishtha, a paediatrician and former head of the Indian Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Immunisation, told The Hindustan Times that Arcturuss symptoms include a high fever, a cough and itchy conjunctivitis or pinkeye.

Five deaths and around 135 cases have been detected in the UK so far, according to the UK Health Security Agency, but Professor Paul Hunter of the University of East Anglia has told The Daily Mail it is too soon to say that Britain could face a fresh surge in infections driven by Arcturus.

Commuters wear face masks amidst the spike in Covid cases in Chennai, India (EPA)

Although in India it has taken off in the past few weeks so far it has not been increasing rapidly globally, Professor Hunter said.

I suspect we will see a wave of infections with this variant but I doubt it will cause a big wave probably not even as great as the one we have just had in the UK and so probably not put as great a pressure on health services than recently.

The professor was alluding to the Kraken strain of Covid, also known as XBB.1.5, which was the dominant form of the disease in Britain until February.

Scientists at the University of Tokyo comparing the Kraken and Arcturus sub-variants have suggested that the newer strain spreads about 1.17 to 1.27 times more efficiently than its relative, warning that it will spread worldwide in the near future aided by the fact that it seems robustly resistant to antibodies lingering in the body from previous Covid infections.

In the US, Arcturus is now responsible for 9.6 per cent of American Covid cases, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the WHO.

Virologist Professor Lawrence Young from the University of Warwick told The Independent that the rise of the new variant in India is a sign that were not yet out of the woods.

We have to keep an eye on it, he said. When a new variant arises you have to find out if its more infectious, more disease-causing, is it more pathogenic? And whats going to happen in terms of immune protection.

These kinds of things highlight the importance of genomic surveillance but a lot of countries including our own have let our guards down a bit and we cant be sure what variants are around and what level of infection theyre causing until we see a significant outbreak.
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Former Downing Street communications chief Alastair Campbell has played a lament on the bagpipes for political figures who were involved in the Good Friday Agreement negotiations but have since died.

His performance came at the end of a live recording of The Rest Is Politics podcast, which took place in the Whitla Hall at Queens University Belfast as part of the Agreement 25 conference marking a quarter of a century since the peace deal.

Im actually in my dotage, started to write and Im going to play a lament, Mr Campbell said.

And it is a lament to Mo (Mowlam), John Hume, Seamus Mallon, David Trimble, David Ervine, and two gentlemen better known as the Chuckle Brothers (Rev Ian Paisley and Martin McGuiness), because at various points they were all involved and they are sadly no longer with us.

Mr Campbell was chief press secretary at the time of the peace deal negotiations in 1998.

During the course of the live recording, Mr Campbell discussed forthcoming podcast episodes featuring former US secretary of state Hillary Clinton and former prime minister Tony Blair.

Weve also done an interview with Hillary Clinton, he said.

Both she and Tony (Blair) separately made the same point, which I think is something here for the PhD students to think about  would it have been achieved in the way that it was in an era of social media? Im not convinced.

Podcast co-host Rory Stewart, a former cabinet minister, also expressed apprehension about the impact of social media.

Others have been talking about social media, and the way in which instant tweeting could undermine these kinds of processes, he said.

But I think that same form of social media has increased populism and polarisation around the world, as undermining the authority of the United States, its Western allies, weve seen the rise of China.

He added: Its very, very difficult now to see the re-emergence of peace processes and the global order.
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More work should have gone into addressing the legacy of the Northern Ireland Troubles when the Good Friday Agreement was signed, former taoiseach Bertie Ahern has said.

Mr Ahern said the legacy issue was still outstanding 25 years on from the historic peace deal, with new generations seeking answers about victims of violence.

Mr Ahern was speaking, alongside Sir Tony Blair, to a group of school pupils in Belfast when he was asked was there anything he would have done differently around the Good Friday Agreement.

He said at the time talks chairman George Mitchell had set a deadline of Holy Thursday for a deal, which eventually ran into Good Friday.

If you ask me today could I go back, I definitely would have worked harder on the chapter on legacy of the Troubles Bertie Ahern

He added: We had to rush a lot of things.

If you ask me today could I go back, I definitely would have worked harder on the chapter on legacy of the Troubles.

I have spent so much of my life since meeting families who have family members who have died or were injured.

Even recently I met two different groups, one in Belfast, one in Dublin, in the last few weeks.

The former taoiseach said it was very hard to talk to political parties in Northern Ireland about legacy at the time.

I remember to the parties at one stage after the Good Friday Agreement saying to them I had met (FW) De Klerk and (Nelson) Mandela in Dublin and I asked them to tell me about the South Africa model.

I said to the political parties who were associated with paramilitaries how about doing something on peace and reconciliation.

I dont want to be funny about it but I was nearly in the room on my own after half an hour. There werent many takers around.

Maybe we should have done something, but to look back and say everybody was signed up for legacy issues in 1998 wouldnt be telling the truth.

New UK Government legislation to deal with the legacy of the Troubles proposes offering immunity for people accused of crimes during the Troubles as long as they co-operate with a new truth recovery body.

It would also stop future court processes or inquests.

Now I am meeting delegations with young people who weren't born in 1998, but wondering what happened to their grandfathers Bertie Ahern

However, victims groups, as well as the political parties in Northern Ireland and the Irish Government, have criticised the Bill.

Mr Ahern told the group of young people that Northern Ireland still has a problem dealing with families traumatised from incidents during the years of violence.

He said: I am watching it now going back into generations.

Now I am meeting delegations with young people who werent born in 1998, but wondering what happened to their grandfathers.

It is still an outstanding issue.
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China poses an epoch-defining challenge to the West, the head of the National Cyber Security Centre is reportedly set to warn.

Director Lindy Cameron, who heads up the GCHQ arm, will use a speech in Belfast this week to warn the UK and allies of the dramatic rise of China as a technology superpower.

The remarks, set to be delivered this week at the CyberUK annual conference, were reported by the Times newspaper. They come as the the US, the UK and Western nations attempt to navigate the growing economic and political reach of China amid concerns about the threat the country poses to security.

Concerns about China have already seen UK Government ban ministers from using video-sharing app TikTok on their work phones following a security review.

The House of Commons and the Lords also cited security concerns as they decided to ban the app  owned by Chinese internet company ByteDance  across the Palace of Westminster.

We cannot secure future technology without addressing the epoch-defining challenge that we are facing: the dramatic rise of China as a technology superpower, Ms Cameron will reportedly say.

China has identified several existing and emerging technologies as being vital to its future national security. And it has an aspiration to become a world leader in setting technological standards, she will tell the conference.

So we need to be clear: China is not only pushing for parity with western countries, it is aiming for technical supremacy. It will use its tech strength as a lever to achieve a dominant role in global affairs. What does this mean for cybersecurity? Bluntly we cannot afford not to keep pace otherwise we risk China becoming the predominant power in cyberspace.

Some may dismiss this as far-fetched or scaremongering, but it is a risk I would urge you to take seriously. This is simply not something about which any of us can be complacent.

The Governments updated blueprint for UK foreign and defence policy  the refreshed integrated review published last month  described China under Communist Party rule represents an epoch-defining and systemic challenge to almost every aspect of government policy and the everyday lives of British people.

But Prime Minister Rishi Sunak remains under pressure from some MPs within his own party to take a tougher stance against Beijing.
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Chris Heaton-Harris has said powersharing is the surest way to secure Northern Irelands place in the Union, as he said real leadership is about having the courage to say yes.

The Northern Ireland Secretary said those who are proud of the regions place in the Union should put the Union first and restore the devolved institutions.

Downing Street has insisted the speech did not represent the Government toughening up its messaging towards the DUP, which is currently blocking the operation of the powersharing institutions at Stormont.

Responding, DUP MLA Emma Little-Pengelly insisted her party would not be pressurised or bow to presidents and prime ministers and would only return to Stormont when its concerns over sovereignty about post-Brexit trade were addressed.

Mr Heaton-Harris was speaking at a three-day conference at Queens University to mark the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement at a time when Stormont remains effectively collapsed.

The DUP has said it will not participate in the assembly and ministerial executive until its concerns are addressed around the post-Brexit Northern Ireland Protocol  an arrangement the party contends has undermined the regions place within the UK.

The party has expressed concerns over the Windsor Framework, which the UK agreed with the EU earlier this year in an attempt to reduce the economic barriers on Irish Sea trade and persuade the DUP to call off its Assembly boycott.

Mr Heaton-Harris said the narrative that unionism was not served well by the Good Friday Agreement is wrong.

Speaking in the Whitla Hall at Queens, he said he has been struck by a narrative that has become louder in recent years  a narrative that the Agreement struck in 1998 did not achieve great things for unionism.

He said: That it was somehow all-out wins for nationalism. That narrative is wrong. And all of those, all of us who support the Agreement, must be vocal in countering it.

Today, the principle of consent is so often taken for granted but it was an important and hard-won guarantee that settled Northern Ireland to remain as part of the United Kingdom.

Mr Heaton-Harris said the simple reality is that people tend to change the status quo only when the status quo is not working, or people simply stop making the case for it.

Devolved powersharing institutions created a status quo that those of us who value Northern Irelands place in the Union can robustly and successfully promote and celebrate, he said.

So let no-one tell you that powersharing is at any way at odds with unionism.

Instead it is the surest way by which Northern Irelands place in the Union can be secured, he said, in comments that prompted applause from the crowd.

Mr Heaton-Harris said the people of Northern Ireland are demanding better, more responsive public services, greater economic prosperity and a brighter future for their children.

The biggest threat to Northern Irelands place in the Union is failing to deliver on these priorities, he said.

I make no apologies for being proud of Northern Irelands place in the Union and for wanting it to continue.

Others who share that view should put the Union first, restore the devolved institutions and get on with the job of delivering for the people of Northern Ireland.

Mr Heaton-Harris said real leadership is about having the courage to say yes, telling the crowd: Like David Trimble, David Ervine before in 1998, Dr Paisley in 2006, real leadership is about knowing when to say yes and having the courage to do so.

Asked about the tone and content of Mr Heaton-Harriss speech, the Prime Ministers official spokesman said that ministers had used similar messaging before, amid efforts to restore powersharing.

We think it is important that the people of Northern Ireland have an up and running, functioning executive, he said.

Our priority is ensuring that is delivered, it is something we have been working on before the framework and obviously we believe that the framework provides the right foundation for powersharing to return.

Ms Little-Pengelly, who also spoke on the second day of the Queens conference, insisted her partys concerns were not manufactured.

It doesnt matter if you agree with those grievances, she said.

They exist. Theyre real. Theyre genuine. If they had been listened to two years ago, the institutions would not have collapsed, if the promises made to unionism in Northern Ireland had been kept the institutions would not have collapsed. And I do want there to be hope. We need there to be hope. I want to build a better future for Northern Ireland. That can only happen with inclusion and consensus and us working together and listening to each other, even if we dont agree with where we are coming from.

Meanwhile, Irelands deputy premier Micheal Martin also called for the return of the Stormont executive, saying the UK Government stretched themselves to achieve the Windsor Framework.

The past few years, with the practicalities of Brexit, have been turbulent for Northern Ireland, and for these islands, he said.

The European Commission and the UK Government stretched themselves in recent months to reach an accommodation that works for Northern Ireland.

I know that turbulence will take some time to settle, that parties need to pause and reflect internally on next steps.

But I urge all elected officials to take their seats in the assembly and the executive and get to work on the questions of everyday life that matter to the people of Northern Ireland, including healthcare, education, policing, regional imbalances and much more.

Mr Martin also called on the Northern Ireland parties to recapture the spirit of the Good Friday Agreement.

Let us recapture and renew that generous spirit of the Agreement, he said.

Lets make the effort again to see this place and see what has happened through the eyes of those we dont agree with.

When we do, I am certain that we will recognise the potential of the opportunity before us.

The potential of a decade of investment and renewal, the potential of our young people when they are given an education and the chance to thrive, potential that we dare not squander.

European Commission vice-president Maros Sefcovic did not speak about the Windsor Framework specifically, but hailed the importance of inclusivity.

In a panel discussion focused on the Good Friday Agreement being a template for resolving global conflict, Mr Sefcovic said lesson number one is respect your partner.

He also said that the establishment of a strong personal relationship is important, adding that he was happy to have had a strong relationship within a very short period of time with both Foreign Secretary James Cleverly and Mr Heaton-Harris.

The event at the Queens University Belfast has seen the participation of major political figures including former US president Bill Clinton, former prime minister Sir Tony Blair and former taoiseach Bertie Ahern.

Later, Mr Clinton is set to give a speech at the Guildhall in Londonderry.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is scheduled to make a closing address to the conference on Wednesday ahead of a dinner event which former prime ministers Boris Johnson and Liz Truss are expected to attend.
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An Essex pub that displayed racist golly dolls has been vandalised with windows damaged and paint daubed on the door.

Police said they would now conduct extra patrols in the area after the incident at the White Hart Inn in Grays at 12.40am on Sunday.

The incident comes after officers seized a collection of dolls from the pub on 4 April. The dolls, which are based on 18th century minstrels are now regarded as racist caricatures, are now part of an investigation into an alleged hate crime.

The pub landlords were reported in 2018 over the dolls (Benice Ryley / SWNS)

The raid caught the attention of home secretary Suella Braverman, who criticised Essex Police for how it has handled the matter.

On the recent vandalism, Essex Police district commander Tony Atkin said: Inquiries are taking place to establish what happened in the lead up to this incident and to identify those responsible, and includes viewing CCTV footage.

One line of inquiry is that the criminal damage is linked to a previous incident that we are currently investigating, also linked to the White Hart Inn, he continued.

We continue to investigate that incident and would ask the public to allow us to do so, remaining calm.

No arrests have been made in connection to the alleged hate crime but police previously confirmed they are also investigating social media posts that appeared on the landlords Facebook profile.

Christopher Ryley allegedly shared a number posts on his Facebook expressing racist and far-right views, including a comment where he apparently joked about Mississippi lynchings.

In a March 2016 Facebook post still online, Mr Ryley uploaded a picture of golli***s hanging from his bar with the comment We have our golli***s, yaay. Commenting on the post his wife, Benice Ryley, asked: Are you sure this is legal. lol.

The pub was vandalised over the weekend (PA)

The landlord replied: They used to hang them in Mississippi years ago.

Months before, Mr Ryley had allegedly shared several propaganda images created by the white nationalist Generation Identity group, which inspired the 2019 New Zealand mosque shooter.

Its time to rise up, a Generation Identity poster reading: Keep calm and defend your country was captioned.

Chris and Benice Ryley were reported for the dolls in 2018 (Benice Ryley / SWNS)

Benice Ryley, Chriss wife, hit back at allegations of racism, saying the pub frequently hosts Indian weddings, and said she does not understand how people could be offended by the dolls.

When asked about her husband being photographed in a T-shirt from the far-right group Britain First, Ms Ryley said: I dont think Chris is a supporter of Britain First, he was just wearing that shirt because it was convenient at the time.

The pub has been banned from being considered for any awards by the Campaign for Real Ales (Camra) and the group said it would not be included in its Good Beer Guide "while these discriminatory dolls continue to be on display".
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A son has blamed cowboy builders for contributing to the death of his elderly mother after they scammed his father for more than 8,000.

Footage shows the moment three cowboy builders botch a job on purpose while mocking the elderly man they had tricked into taking the work.

Matty Rossiter, 18, James Rossiter, 24, and Dean Smith, 21, are filmed laughing about ripping off really old John Bray, 82, and demanding quite a lot of money for their services.

John Bray (left) with one of the cowboy builders who scammed him (SWNS)

In the phone footage, the trio of fraudsters said they find guys like this every day by door-to-door knocking and that the work they were doing on the pensioners roof was bodging.

The group charged him over 8,000 - and just replaced a few tiles. The trio made 45,000 from crimes committed in 18 properties across Wiltshire, Gloucestershire and Bristol between October 2020 and March 2021.

On the phone footage, one of them says: As you can see were doing some roofing work here. Were doing some bodging.

As you see, what were doing is we are in some bungalows. Weve got two vans on the go - and as you can see, the guy were working for, hes really old.

The individual then calls out to Mr Bray, from Calne, Wiltshire, saying: John, were having quite a lot of money for this, arent we?

He adds: So we want to do you a good job. Its worth doing right, isnt it?

Its your home, you need to live in it. So you dont want any more problems on the roof after were gone, do you?

The workmen film their repairs to Mr Brays roof (SWNS)

The camera then turns to look at the badly repaired roof, before the cameraman adds: As you can see here, we dont need to pay thousands for advertisement.

Its on the door-to-door knocking, what Ive done for all my life, and we find guys like this every day. The door-to-door knocking. Its the way forward.

The work was later labelled by a chartered surveyor called by Wiltshire Trading Standards as abysmal.

It was carried out with no attendant skill or competence and probably without the use of appropriate hand tools.

The standard of work was branded abysmal (SWNS)

On several occasions. the group knocked on the doors of elderly people and told them that their roofs needed repairing - before overcharging them by thousands.

The group also used multiple names for their business varying by county, including Southern Homecare, Chippenham Roofing, Skyline Roofing, Wiltshire Roofing and Yate Roofing.

Mr Brays son, Steve, told the BBC that the group were despicable, and that he believed the death of his mother had been in part due to the fraud.

They made a video laughing and joking, insulting my dad, laughing and joking while they were doing more damage, he said.

The feelings my parents had - the shame and embarrassment - my mum took that feeling to her grave. Thats the worst part.

Matty and James Rossiter, both of Minety, in Wiltshire, admitted fraud by false representation and participating in a fraudulent business.

Matty Rossiter was jailed for two years and three months for the offence, and aged just 16 was one of the youngest offenders Wiltshire Trading Standards had discovered.

James Rossiter was also jailed for three years and four months, while Dean Smith, of Aldermaston, Berkshire, was sentenced to three years after pleading guilty to participating in a fraudulent business.

Judge Jason Taylor at Swindon Crown Court labelled the trio industrial scale rogue builders, and reprimanded them for their arrogance after laughing at their victim.

Additional reporting by SWNS
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The probe into the Scottish National Partys finances has taken another step forward with the arrest of their treasurer Colin Beattie.

Police said they had arrested the 71-year-old on Tuesday in connection with the ongoing investigation, which has already seen former SNP chief executive Peter Murrell arrested and released without charge at the beginning of April.

Nicola Sturgeon, who is married to Mr Murrell, stepped down as party leader earlier in the year and has now been replaced by Humza Yousaf - the new first minister.

Colin Beattie became an SNP councillor in 2007 and later an MSP (Corbis via Getty)

Mr Beattie served in the treasury role, which oversees financial matters, between 2004 and 2020 and again from 2021 to the present. But the MSP has remained relatively under the radar during his time in office.

Below we look at all we know about Mr Beattie and the latest on the investigation.

Who is Colin Beattie and how long has he been part of the SNP?

Mr Beattie joined the SNP as a 14-year-old and worked as an apprentice at a local bank before spending 23 years in finance in the Middle and Far East.

Upon his return to the UK he worked for 11 years in London before moving to Scottish town Dalkeith with his wife Lisa in 2001.

First elected as a councillor in Midlothian in 2007, Mr Beattie led the SNP group at the local authority.

But in 2011, he moved to Holyrood, being elected as an MSP for the newly-formed Midlothian North and Musselburgh constituency.

Despite the SNP being in power throughout his tenure as an MSP, Mr Beattie has never achieved ministerial office, having never been invited by Alex Salmond, Nicola Sturgeon or Humza Yousaf to serve in Government.

His highest office to date has been the national treasurer post, a role he was elected to in a vote by party members in 2004.

In the partys 2020 internal elections, however, Mr Beattie lost out to MP Douglas Chapman.

But Mr Chapmans tenure would be short-lived, with him resigning in May 2021, claiming he had not been given enough information to carry out the job.

The following month, Mr Beattie was reinstated to the role.

The arrest comes after Nicola Sturgeons husband was arrested and released without charge (PA Wire)

What have police said?

Police Scotland said a report relating to Mr Beattie will be sent to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service.

A statement read: A 71-year-old man has today been arrested as a suspect in connection with the ongoing investigation into the funding and finances of the Scottish National Party.

The man is in custody and is being questioned by Police Scotland detectives.

What is the latest in the investigation?

Police Scotland confirmed they were investigating the partys finances in July 2021, after seven complaints were made around donations to the SNP.

This followed allegations that 600,000 raised for campaigning towards Scottish independence was diverted elsewhere.

The party said that all sums raised for independence campaigning will be spent on independence campaigning.

The probe then moved forward in April this year, when Mr Murrell was arrested, with a large police presence around his home in Glasgow as well as the SNPs headquarters in Edinburgh.

He was released without charge, pending further investigation, the same day.
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A gun-style licensing regime should be set up for machete owners, ministers have been told.

Conservative MP Anna Firth, whose predecessor Sir David Amess was fatally stabbed during a constituency surgery, made the call as she warned reckless retailers will seek to circumvent proposals to tighten knife laws in England and Wales.

The Government wants to ban more machetes and zombie knives, introduce tougher sentences for their sale and possession, and give police more powers to seize and destroy the weapons.

Under current laws, if police find a machete or other legal blade in someones home they cannot seize or act upon it, even if they believe the items will be used in crime.

Ms Firth, MP for Southend West, told the Commons: Im absolutely delighted to hear this announcement today because machetes and knives have been used in my constituency with tragic consequences, quite apart from what happened to Sir David.

The devil is always in the detail. Im delighted to hear that were going to be considering tightening up the definition on zombie knives, which is obviously needed.

Im also delighted to hear that once theyre prohibited, of course, the importation and manufacture and sale of them will be illegal.

But reckless retailers are expert at circumventing the law and that is what has happened here.

So could I urge the minister to consider going even further and having a licensing scheme for machetes in this country, similar to gun licences.

There are some legitimate uses for machetes but not many and that way at least we can make sure we get every machete off the streets and out of our homes and prevent these appalling crimes and tragedies from happening.

Home Office minister Chris Philp paid tribute to Ms Firth for her tireless and very effective campaigning on the issue.

He added: We do intend to be very strict with retailers. The ban will apply to machetes where there is no obvious legitimate purpose and retailers will be committing a criminal offence if they sell them.

We should have no tolerance at all, as she says, for any retailer who seeks to circumvent or break the law by selling machetes that will be banned.

Conservative former minister Mark Francois, a friend of Sir Davids, earlier said he understood some zombie knives could only be banned because of what is written on them.

He also sought assurances that the proposals will stop people buying zombie knives online in the UK or from overseas.

Mr Philp replied: I can confirm that zombie knives which do not have any writing on them will be covered by the proposals made.

He added: People directly selling online prohibited items, that is straight up illegal.

In relation to selling on marketplaces, following discussions with colleagues in the new Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, I have been assured that the Online Safety Bill will cover online marketplaces when it comes to selling items like this.

So with the passage of the Online Safety Bill, the kind of provisions hes asking will apply.

James Daly, Conservative MP for Bury North, said: Following a recent meeting with my local chief superintendent, he set out it is a matter of course for many young people in Bury to carry a knife.

The excuse when they are stopped is that its for self-defence purposes. What happens then? The police take the knife but there is no prosecution.

The problem with this, and we always do it in this House, is we talk about words on a piece of paper. Unless the police actually prosecute and take action against people for possession of weapons, this problem will never be sorted out.

Mr Philp, in his reply, said: It is my view, like it is (Mr Dalys) view, that police where they arrest somebody in possession of a knife should follow up, there should be a prosecution and, certainly, where appropriate, there should be custody as well or rehabilitative work where thats appropriate.

Labours Pat McFadden highlighted the case of Ronan Kanda, who died in a stabbing attack in Wolverhampton last year.

The MP for Wolverhampton South East urged the Government to bring in the ban on the sale of machetes and other similar knives as soon as possible.

Mr Philp replied: We will proceed as quickly as we possibly can.
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Humza Yousaf will set out the priorities for his premiership in his first major policy statement at Holyrood since he took over from Nicola Sturgeon.

The First Minister, who narrowly won the SNP leadership election last month, will use a statement to the Scottish Parliament on Tuesday to set out what he wants his government to deliver over the next three years.

These challenging times we live in call for a fresh vision of how we face them, Mr Yousaf said ahead of the speech, which comes amid a torrid start to his leadership.

The statement, which will be accompanied by a policy paper, is expected to fall under three key themes of equality, opportunity and community  building on the Scottish Governments legislative agenda in the Programme for Government and the Bute House Agreement.

Mr Yousaf, who said he had promised to lead Scotland in the interests of all our people, added: My cabinet has considered how we can build a better future for Scotland and the outcomes necessary to achieve that.

Through a determined focus on reducing poverty and strengthening public services, seizing the opportunity to build a growing and green wellbeing economy through the net zero transition and supporting business, and reaffirming our commitment to equality, inclusion, and human rights in everything we do.

We will do so using the powers of devolution to their maximum, whilst making the case that as an independent nation, we can do so much more to make Scotland a wealthier, fairer, and greener country.

Since being made First Minister around three weeks ago, Mr Yousaf said, his government had tripled our support for households struggling with high energy bills with our 30 million fuel insecurity fund, announced an additional 25 million to help the north east become the net zero capital of the world, and reinforced our commitment to supporting families with a 15 million investment in free high-quality school age childcare.

He said the measures would make a real difference and had come as a response to the challenges presented by our ongoing recovery from the Covid pandemic and a cost-of-living crisis exacerbated by Brexit and the UK Governments economic mismanagement, as well as climate change impacts and Russias invasion of Ukraine.

Mr Yousafs speech comes after a difficult start to his leadership, which has included the police raid of the SNP headquarters and home of former party chief executive Peter Murrell, which he shares with his wife Ms Sturgeon.

Mr Murrell was released without charge, pending further investigation.
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A French publisher has been arrested in London on suspicion of terror offences over his alleged involvement in anti-pension reform protests in his home country, his employer has said.

Ernest Moret, who works at Editions La Fabrique, was reportedly detained by police after arriving from Paris at St Pancras railway station on Monday evening.

Mr Moret, who had taken the Eurostar and is the publishers foreign rights manager, was on his way to the London Book Fair, which takes place in Olympia over three days from April 18-20, when officers tried to determine whether he was engaged in terrorist acts or in possession of material for use in terrorism, the firm said.

Officers said he had participated in demonstrations in France over President Emmanuel Macron raising the retirement age from 62 to 64, a joint statement with Verso Books said.

It seems extraordinary that the British police have acted this way in using terrorism legislation to arrest the publisher who was on legitimate business here for the London Book Fair Pamela Morton, NUJ

It read: On arrival at St Pancras Station, Ernest was pulled aside by police officers acting under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act 2000 and detained for questioning without a lawyer present, allegedly to determine whether he was engaged in terrorist acts or in possession of material for use in terrorism.

The police officers claimed that Ernest had participated in demonstrations in France as a justification for this act  a quite remarkably inappropriate statement for a British police officer to make and which seems to clearly indicate complicity between French and British authorities on this matter.

It was demanded that he give up his phone and pass codes to the officers, with no justification or explanation offered. This morning, Ernest was formally arrested and transferred to a police station, accused of obstruction because of his refusal to give up his pass codes. He remains in police custody.

We consider these actions to be outrageous and unjustifiable infringements of basic principles of the freedom of expression and an example of the abuse of anti-terrorism laws.

We consider that this assault on the freedom of expression of a publisher is yet another manifestation of the slide towards repressive and authoritarian measures taken by the current French government in the face of widespread popular discontent and protest.

It is crucial for all defenders of basic democratic values to express in the strongest terms that we find this intolerable and outrageous.

On Tuesday afternoon, a Metropolitan Police spokesperson said: At around 1930hrs on Monday April 17, a 28-year-old man was stopped by ports officers as he arrived at St Pancras station, using powers under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act 2000.

On Tuesday April 18, the man was subsequently arrested on suspicion of wilfully obstructing a Schedule 7 examination (contrary to section 18 of the Terrorism Act 2000).

French diplomatic sources said Mr Moret was released on Tuesday evening although the PA news agency has not been able to confirm that with the Metropolitan Police.

A diplomatic source told PA that on Tuesday morning the French Embassy was informed by Mr Morets employers of his arrest in London the previous evening, in relation to checks carried out by the British authorities on the UKs borders.

The Embassy took all the necessary steps with the relevant UK authorities to ensure that the interested party could, if he so wished, fully and immediately benefit from consular protection.

Our compatriot was released by the UK authorities this evening, they said.
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Senior civil servants need more experience of the world beyond Whitehall, MPs have heard.

Gisela Stuart, who chairs the body responsible for overseeing recruitment to the Civil Service, told MPs on Tuesday that she wanted to see more top mandarins with experience working in devolved administrations and the private sector in order to ensure diversity of thought.

Baroness Stuart told the Commons Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee: If I had my way, I would say if you want to become a permanent secretary you should have worked outside London, ideally probably in a devolved administration at some stage, ideally been out in a delivery (role) or in the private sector and then bring you back.

But that requires career management at a lower level so that we start rewarding not your ability to work your way across Whitehall but actually your ability to deliver on policy.

We still do not sell the privilege and the sheer excitement of some of the government jobs which we offer Gisela Stuart

Her comments are similar to those made by Rishi Sunak during the summer 2022 Conservative leadership election, in which he called for a shake-up to tackle Civil Service groupthink.

Mr Sunak said he wanted to ensure senior civil servants spent at least a year of their career outside Whitehall or in the private sector, and to link payment to performance rather than long service.

The Government has already taken steps to ensure a wider array of candidates for Civil Service roles, requiring all senior jobs to be advertised externally.

But Baroness Stuart, who has been First Civil Service Commissioner since March 2022, said there had been a reluctance of external candidates to actually come forward.

She said: We still do not sell the privilege and the sheer excitement of some of the government jobs which we offer.

She also acknowledged concerns about Civil Service morale, saying: Civil servants too often find that people only ever talk about them when they find fault with them and when anything goes right it is taken for granted, and we really dont celebrate enough the extraordinary achievements.

Baroness Stuart also denied she had failed to uphold her requirement to be impartial by taking part in a cross-party summit at Ditchley Park, Oxfordshire, to discuss Brexit in February 2023.

Prior to her appointment as head of the Civil Service Commission, her impartiality was questioned due to her former roles as a Labour Party MP and chair of Vote Leave in 2016.

Baroness Stuart told MPs that impartiality doesnt mean inactivity or irrelevance, saying: It is not a partisan stance to take that I would like this Government to be economically successful and the United Kingdom to be cohesive and coherent.

And whether Im a civil servant or whether Im a former minister or whether I work for industry I have a role to play in that.

Regarding the Ditchley Park conference, she added: When I read the reports that this was the deep state gathering in Oxfordshire, Im afraid my initial response was if I had known that I wouldnt have arrived late and left early.
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The family of a British-Israeli woman killed with her daughters in the West Bank said the Government and the media must make it clear that terrorism is completely unacceptable.

Lucy Dee, 48, died three days after her daughters, Rina, 15, and Maia, 20, were shot dead on April 7.

The family of seven, who moved to Israel from the UK in 2014, were travelling in separate cars en route to a Passover holiday.

Mrs Dees widower Leo Dee is a rabbi and they have a son and two other daughters.

On Tuesday, a ministerial visit was made to Mrs Dees family at the north London home of her brother Benjamin Shaw.

Hopefully, eventually ... the message will get through to the terrorists that every time you do a terrorist attack its not going to get you brownie points, its going to be negative points Benjamin Shaw

The Shaw family is observing the Jewish mourning period of Shiva, having returned home from Israel, where Rabbi Dee remains.

Speaking to minister for the Middle East Lord Ahmad and Baron Polak, Mr Shaw referred to a letter sent to the family from Foreign Secretary James Cleverly, who said there is no justification for the killings.

Mr Shaw said: The only way I can think of dealing with it, what the Government has done, is (to say) that any acts of terrorism, wherever they are, are completely unacceptable.

Hopefully, eventually, if everyone, particularly in the media, say that  the media isnt always so clear-cut in their reporting  then eventually the message will get through to the terrorists that every time you do a terrorist attack its not going to get you brownie points, its going to be negative points.

Lord Ahmad, who is Muslim, told the family his mother raised him to view Judaism as the foundation of the Muslim faith.

She said that as Muslims we believe that the foundation of our faith is Judaism, he said.

To an eight-year-old munching on his toast and a glass of milk it was a very colourful but digestible understanding that religion was not about conflict but about learning from each other Lord Ahmad

Without the foundation of Judaism there would not be the walls of Christianity, and without the walls of Christianity there would not be the roof of Islam.

The other doors and windows represent other faiths and beliefs and ultimately how we come together in the house of God.

He added: To an eight-year-old munching on his toast and a glass of milk it was a very colourful but digestible understanding that religion was not about conflict but about learning from each other.

At the end of their meeting, Lord Ahmad and Baron Polak offered their condolences to the family.

Baron Polak said: Today is Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Memorial Day. In some ways, you have experienced your own holocaust as a family.

I just hope and pray that in the days to come you will be able to remember the happy days you had as a family.

Speaking to the PA news agency after meeting Lord Ahmad and Baron Polak, Mr Shaw said he would like to meet Mr Cleverly and thank him for his support.
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The husband of a British-Israeli woman murdered with her daughters in the West Bank has said he is still 100 per cent glad his family moved to the country.

Lucy Dee, 48, died three days after her daughters, Rina, 15, and Maia, 20, were shot and killed on April 7.

The family of seven, who moved to Israel from the UK in 2014, had been travelling in separate cars en route to a Passover holiday.

Mrs Dees husband Leo Dee is a rabbi, and they have a son and two other daughters.

Mr Dee told LBCs Tonight with Andrew Marr: We moved to Israel because we thought it was the right place to educate our children, bring them up with the values we respect and wanted them to have.

I believe we brought up our children with those values, with the support of the community and Im still 100 per cent glad that we came here.

What happened to us was one in 10 million and sadly car crashes happen all around the world, and these things happen and really there was no way of preventing it.

It was just completely extraordinary fate.

Mr Dee was formerly the senior rabbi at Radlett United Synagogue in Hertfordshire and assistant rabbi in Hendon, north London.

The family lived in the Efrat settlement, near the Palestinian city of Bethlehem, according to the settlements mayor, Oded Revivi.

Mr Dee said he does not hold any hatred towards the Palestinian terrorists believed to be responsible for the attack.

He said: I dont hold any hate towards them. The Israeli security forces will do what they usually do which is track them down and bring them to justice, which I think is right because it prevents the next attack that they might do.

In a statement from Mrs Dees brother, Benjamin Shaw  made on behalf of both the Dee and Shaw family, he said: We are devastated by the brutal murder of our dear Lucy, Maia, and Rina.

Their absence leaves a void in our hearts that can never be filled.

We are deeply touched by the words of the Foreign Secretary, James Cleverly, who has shown great compassion in acknowledging our loss.

His firm stance against terrorism sets a new standard for nations and media in addressing acts of terror.

We see this as the Cleverly Declaration, akin to the Balfour Declaration, establishing that terrorism can never be justified.

Mr Cleverly had written to Rabbi Dee, offering the family the assistance of the British government, with his letter stating: There can be no justification for such senseless and abhorrent violence, and I unequivocally condemn this act of terrorism.
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Greggs is set for a court showdown with Westminster Council after the bakery was banned from selling late night snacks from its flagship Leicester Square store.

The popular high street chain was refused permission to keep its doors open from 11pm until 5am at the central London location by the council in July last year.

Westminster Council called the application half baked and police argued that the location would become a hotspot for crime and disorder.

Greggs and Westminster Council are currently in mediation talks to settle the dispute, as reported by The Evening Standard.

However, a three day court hearing on May 16, 17 and 18 has now been scheduled where the Greggs will appeal the decision to not let it serve its baked goods past 11pm.

The baker previously told the BBC that the extended hours would bring in customers working night shifts and staff from emergency services and not be a hotspot for trouble.

Greggs also promised to install CCTV and hire door staff to ensure safety at the location, which is nestled in Londons busy West End.

However, the council said last year that legitimate concerns have been raised by the police and local people that these plans are half-baked.

There are worries that businesses serving 24/7 in the city centre creates challenges and that the bakery could become a hot spot for late night disturbances and anti-social behaviour.

In a letter to the council, the Metropolitan Police said: It is our belief that if granted, the application could undermine the licensing objectives in relation to the prevention of crime and disorder.

Greggs rolled out the blue carpet for the opening of its flagship central London location in July last year.

Hundreds of people gathered to sample the bakers most popular items such as steak bakes, sausage rolls and donuts.

It comes as the bakery has set it sights on expansion plans after record sales as consumers flock to the chain store for low cost meals during the cost of living crisis.
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A nurse accused of multiple murders of babies wept in the dock as photographs of her bedroom were shown in court.

Lucy Letby cried as the images were displayed during her trial at Manchester Crown Court. Jurors heard that a number of Post-it notes were found in her diary, including one saying I am evil I did this.

The 33 year-old was first arrested in July 2018 on suspicion of attacking infants in her care  two years after she worked her last shift at the Countess of Chester Hospitals neo-natal unit.

Letby was moved by health chiefs to the hospitals risk and patient safety office after consultants raised concerns about her common link to numerous collapses of patients at the unit.

She denies murdering seven babies and attempting to murder 10 others between June 2015 and June 2016.

On Monday, jurors were told the defendant was first arrested at her three-bedroom property in Westbourne Road, Chester, at 6am on 3 July 2018.

A distressed Letby wiped away tears as photographs of her bedroom  taken by a crime scene investigator  appeared on screen in court.

On the bedroom walls there were two framed pictures containing the slogans, Shine Like A Diamond and Leave Sparkles Wherever You Go.

Among items on the floor were a red suitcase, a large burgundy handbag and a small black handbag, the court heard.

Court artist sketch of Letby appearing in the dock at Manchester Crown Court (PA Archive)

Philip Astbury, prosecutor, said three handwritten notes were recovered by police from one of the handbags.

The notes contained closely written words that filled the pages and included declarations of love for a colleague, who cannot be identified for legal reasons. Next to his name was I loved you and my best friend.

Also contained in the notes were the words Help Me, I Cant Do This Any More and How Can Life Be This Way.

Jurors were told that a 2016 diary was recovered from a chest of drawers.

A reference to twins was recorded for 8 April, the date of birth for two twin boys the Crown say Letby attempted to murder. On 9 April, a note stating twin resus was made.

Further entries on 23, 24 and 25 June included initial letters that the Crown say related to three other babies, including two triplet boys, that Letby allegedly attacked on those dates.

Countess of Chester Hospitals neonatal unit where Letby is accused of attacking infants (Cheshire Constabulary/CPS/PA)

Mr Astbury said a green Post-it note, shown to jurors at the start of Letbys trial, was found inside the diary.

Part of the note read: I dont deserve to live. I killed them on purpose because Im not good enough to care for them, I am a horrible evil person and in capital letters: I am evil I did this.

In his opening speech, Ben Myers KC, defending, told jurors the Post-it note was the anguished outpouring of a young woman.

He added Letby was at the time in fear and despair when she realises the enormity of whats being said about her, in the moment, to herself.

Searches also took place on 3 July 2018 at Letbys parents home in Hereford and at the defendants workplace at the hospitals risk and patient safety office.

Letby was re-arrested at her parents home on 10 June 2019 and 11 November 2020, the court heard. Letby denies all the allegations.

The trial continues.
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Around 200,000 hospital appointments were postponed last week as a result of the four-day walkout by junior doctors, new NHS data has confirmed.

The figures come as paramedics, represented by union Unite, are now expected to reject the governments pay offer, putting the whole deal at risk.

Unite, which is due to close its ballot next week, said on Monday: So far, the known results show that members in a large number of NHS trusts are voting to reject the offer. Union representatives in those trusts with a live strike mandate will now be issuing strike notices. This was agreed at a Unite meeting today, which will herald a wave of new strikes early in May.

Unites comments follow the shock result of a ballot by the Royal College of Nursing (RCN), whose members narrowly rejected the governments pay deal last Friday.

The deal, offered to the nurses and paramedics unions in March, would see members awarded a 5.2 per cent pay increase in this financial year and two one-off payments in respect of the previous financial year.

The news comes after last weeks 96-hour strike by junior doctors led to the postponement of 196,000 appointments and procedures in general hospitals. In addition, just over 4,000 were postponed by mental health hospitals, and 570 by community health providers.

To date, 531,000 appointments have had to be rescheduled as a result of strike action undertaken by nurses, doctors, paramedics and other NHS staff since December.

NHS medical director Sir Stephen Powis said the latest figures on the fallout from the junior doctors strikes lay bare the colossal impact of industrial action on the NHS. The figures are also likely to be an underestimate, as hospitals avoided making appointments on days when industrial action was set to take place.

Sir Stephen added: Our staff now have an immense amount of work to catch up on hundreds of thousands of appointments, all while continuing to make progress on tackling the backlog of people who have been waiting for the longest for treatment. We have now seen nearly half a million appointments rescheduled over the last five months, and with each strike, it becomes harder.

While our staff are doing all they possibly can to manage the disruption, it is becoming increasingly difficult, and the impact on patients and staff will, unfortunately, continue to worsen.

Sir Julian Hartley, the chief executive of NHS Providers, which represents all NHS hospitals, said: We cant go on like this. If the planned new strikes by nurses and by Unite members at some trusts go ahead, we will be facing the sixth straight month of industrial action in the NHS.

Trust leaders want whats best for patients and staff. The huge number of rescheduled operations and appointments will keep climbing unless the government sits down with unions to find a way to prevent any more strikes.

Last week, after the RCNs members voted to reject the deal, Unison, which is the largest health union, voted in favour of accepting it. Following the vote by the nursing union, RCN chief Pat Cullen warned that a new set of strikes could continue until Christmas. However, any further strike action after May would require the RCN to seek the approval of its members via another ballot.

Members of both Unite and the GMB union have until Friday 28 April to vote on the deal. Results are also expected next week from smaller unions, such as the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, which has recommended that its members accept the offer, and the Society of Radiographers, which has recommended that its members reject it.
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The Home Office will argue that Channel small boat crossings are a national emergency in a bid to overcome resistance to using a former RAF base as asylum accommodation.

The High Court is to hear Braintree District Councils application for an injunction preventing the transformation of Wethersfield airfield on Wednesday.

We remain of the view that Wethersfield Airfield is an unsuitable site to house asylum seekers, given the lack of capacity in local services, its isolated location and the fact that the scale of the development proposed could have a significant impact upon the local community, a spokesperson for the council said.

The Independent understands that lawyers representing home secretary Suella Braverman are to argue that the plans fall under powers for emergencies under a 2015 law, meaning that normal planning processes do not apply.

A rule known as Class Q allows local councils to be bypassed for developments on government land, including military bases, for the purpose of preventing an emergency, reducing, controlling or mitigating the effects of an emergency or taking other action in connection with an emergency.

The law states that in those circumstances, local planning authorities must only be notified of a development rather than consulted to grant permission.

But it stipulates that the bar is only met when situations threaten serious damage to human welfare, the environment or security of the UK, and gives examples including illness, injury and homelessness.

Mr Justice Waksman will hear legal arguments from the Home Office, Ministry of Defence and Braintree District Council on Wednesday, and decide whether to grant the injunction over the former Wethersfield RAF base.

The council previously said it had been told that asylum seekers would not be moved to the location until the case was decided, but that it had not yet stopped the Home Office from starting to prepare the site for asylum seeker accommodation.

Huge backlogs in asylum decisions and rising numbers of people arriving on small boats has left around 51,000 people being housed in hotels, because of a shortage of proper accommodation.

Wethersfield is one of several military bases targeted by the government as potential sites to accommodate thousands of asylum seekers, ahead of an expected surge in small boat crossings over the summer.

An announcement last month sparked a furious backlash from Conservative MPs and councils, who argue they have not been properly consulted and that the chosen sites are unsuitable.

 Tory MP says asylum barges should be 'totally out of the question'

Under the separate Levelling-up and Regeneration Bill, the government is giving itself powers to bypass normal planning permission for asylum accommodation and other urgent developments of national importance.

New laws being considered by the House of Lords would allow the housing secretary, currently Michael Gove, to take decisions on the use of government-owned land instead of local authorities.

A new process would make the currently required consultations with local communities optional, rather than legally necessary, and councils would have no power to veto major developments.

The power could be used for applications of national importance where it is necessary that the development is carried out as a matter of urgency.

Ministers have confirmed that the law would cover development needed on Crown land to accommodate an influx of refugees.

The Home Office has called the current cost of hotels, at 6m a day, was unacceptable and said it was committed to making every effort to reduce hotel use and limit the burden on the taxpayer.
A council has banned Tough Mudder challenges from a north London park after the damage left behind by recent competitors was compared to the Somme after the First World War battle.

Finsbury Park was reduced to a mire over the weekend after those taking on the obstacle course churned the ground into a mud bath and disturbed nesting birds.

The damage done by the hundreds of people who took part in the race was described as an environmental disgrace by Labour MP David Lammy, who said he was utterly appalled after visiting the park on Sunday.
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First Minister Humza Yousaf said he has not spoken to his predecessor Nicola Sturgeon in the last couple of weeks, as he rejected calls to suspend both her and her husband from the SNP amid the ongoing police probe into the partys finances.

Mr Yousafs comments came as the police investigation saw SNP treasurer Colin Beattie arrested and questioned by detectives.

The arrest of Mr Beattie, 71, who is also the MSP for Midlothian North and Musselburgh, comes less than two weeks after Ms Sturgeons husband was arrested as part of the same investigation.

Peter Murrell, the former SNP chief executive, was questioned by officers on Wednesday April 5 as officers searched the home the couple share. He was later released without charge, pending further inquiries.

Police Scotland have been looking into how more than 600,000 in donations to the party earmarked for an independence referendum had been used  but Mr Yousaf said today he would not be speaking to his predecessor about the investigation.

One thing Nicola and I will not be talking about is the police investigation. That would be wholly inappropriate First Minister Humza Yousaf

The First Minister told journalists at Holyrood: I havent spoken to Nicola in the last couple of weeks, but I will get to speak to Nicola, I am certain I will.

But one thing Nicola and I will not be talking about is the police investigation. That would be wholly inappropriate.

Scottish Tory deputy leader Meghan Gallacher however said Mr Yousaf should tackle this scandal head-on and prove he is his own man by suspending both the former first minister and her husband.

Speaking in Holyrood, Ms Gallacher said: The SNP is in total meltdown.

Its former chief executive and now its current treasurer have been arrested amid a police investigation into the partys finances.

And leaked footage has shown Nicola Sturgeon trying to shut down scrutiny.

Her comments came after Scottish Conservative chairman Craig Hoy called for Mr Beattie, Mr Murrell and Ms Sturgeon to be suspended from the SNP.

Mr Hoy said: This extremely serious matter is escalating by the day and everyone in the SNP has a duty to be as transparent as possible about what they knew and when.

But Mr Yousaf said it was a really important point of natural law that people are presumed innocent until guilty.

He said he would consider the situation if charges are brought by police, saying if that was the case we may well have to take that course of action.

The First Minister stated: Of course if they are guilty I would take the appropriate action, whether that is suspension or going further than that.

But it is really important due process takes place.

Earlier on Tuesday, Police Scotland confirmed Mr Beattie had been arrested in connection with the ongoing investigation into the funding and finances of the Scottish National Party.

A report will be submitted to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, the force added.

An SNP spokesperson said: We have no comment on a live police investigation.

Mr Beattie was the SNPs national treasurer between 2004 and 2020, losing the position to MP Douglas Chapman.

However, Mr Chapman quit the post in 2021, claiming he was not being given the required information to carry out the job.

Mr Beattie reclaimed the post soon afterwards, and reportedly told the partys ruling body on Saturday the SNP would struggle to balance the books  reports that have since been disputed by senior figures including former Westminster leader Ian Blackford.

There was no sign of police activity outside Mr Beatties address in Dalkeith, Midlothian, on Tuesday morning, or outside his constituency office in the town.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said the SNP is in a real mess.

During a visit to York University, he was asked about the arrest of Mr Beattie.

After 16 years in power, it has descended to this  a real mess  and those being let down are Scottish voters, who are entitled to better than this Sir Keir Starmer on the SNP

Sir Keir told broadcasters: The SNP developments are deeply concerning.

Obviously there is a criminal investigation going on, so there is only so much I can say.

But after 16 years in power, it has descended to this  a real mess  and those being let down are Scottish voters, who are entitled to better than this.

Meanwhile, Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar said the news of the arrest meant the SNP was no longer a functioning government.

This is an SNP mired in scandal, mired in division, talking to themselves about themselves, and the crisis that now engulfs the SNP is not just an indication of how they govern their party, but also how they govern our country.
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SNP treasurer Colin Beattie has been released without charge after he became the second figure in the party to be arrested amid a police investigation into its finances.

The 71-year-old was questioned by detectives on Tuesday and Police Scotland said that evening that he had since been released without charge pending further investigation.

The arrest of Mr Beattie, the MSP for Midlothian North and Musselburgh, comes less than two weeks after former first minister Nicola Sturgeons husband was arrested as part of the same investigation.

Peter Murrell, the former SNP chief executive, was questioned by officers on Wednesday April 5 as officers searched the home the couple share. He was later released without charge, pending further inquiries.

Police Scotland have been looking into how more than 600,000 in donations to the party earmarked for an independence referendum had been used, but First Minister Humza Yousaf said on Tuesday that he would not be speaking to Ms Sturgeon about the investigation.

Mr Yousaf told journalists at Holyrood: I havent spoken to Nicola in the last couple of weeks, but I will get to speak to Nicola, I am certain I will.

But one thing Nicola and I will not be talking about is the police investigation. That would be wholly inappropriate.

Scottish Tory deputy leader Meghan Gallacher, however, said Mr Yousaf should tackle this scandal head on and prove he is his own man by suspending both the former first minister and her husband.

Speaking in Holyrood, Ms Gallacher said: The SNP is in total meltdown.

Its former chief executive and now its current treasurer have been arrested amid a police investigation into the partys finances.

And leaked footage has shown Nicola Sturgeon trying to shut down scrutiny.

Her comments came after Scottish Conservative chairman Craig Hoy called for Mr Beattie, Mr Murrell and Ms Sturgeon to be suspended from the SNP.

Mr Hoy said: This extremely serious matter is escalating by the day and everyone in the SNP has a duty to be as transparent as possible about what they knew and when.

But Mr Yousaf said it was a really important point of natural law that people are presumed innocent until guilty.

He said he would consider the situation if charges are brought by police, saying if that was the case we may well have to take that course of action.

The First Minister stated: Of course if they are guilty I would take the appropriate action, whether that is suspension or going further than that.

But it is really important due process takes place.

Earlier on Tuesday, Police Scotland confirmed Mr Beattie had been arrested in connection with the ongoing investigation into the funding and finances of the Scottish National Party.

A report will be submitted to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, the force added.

An SNP spokesperson said: We have no comment on a live police investigation.

Mr Beattie was the SNPs national treasurer between 2004 and 2020, losing the position to MP Douglas Chapman.

However, Mr Chapman quit the post in 2021, claiming he was not being given the required information to carry out the job.

Mr Beattie reclaimed the post soon afterwards, and reportedly told the partys ruling body on Saturday the SNP would struggle to balance the books  reports that have since been disputed by senior figures including former Westminster leader Ian Blackford.

There was no sign of police activity outside Mr Beatties address in Dalkeith, Midlothian, on Tuesday morning, or outside his constituency office in the town.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said the SNP is in a real mess.

During a visit to York University, he was asked about the arrest of Mr Beattie.

Those being let down are Scottish voters, who are entitled to better than this Sir Keir Starmer

Sir Keir told broadcasters: The SNP developments are deeply concerning.

Obviously there is a criminal investigation going on, so there is only so much I can say.

But after 16 years in power, it has descended to this  a real mess  and those being let down are Scottish voters, who are entitled to better than this.

Meanwhile, Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar said the news of the arrest meant the SNP was no longer a functioning government.

This is an SNP mired in scandal, mired in division, talking to themselves about themselves, and the crisis that now engulfs the SNP is not just an indication of how they govern their party, but also how they govern our country.
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The US ambassador to the UK has said economic progress in Northern Ireland depends on political stability.

Jane Hartley was speaking at the Agreement 25 conference at Queens University Belfast.

Ms Harley said progress needed to be made and encouraged politicians to recapture the spirit of the Good Friday Agreement.

The Belfast Good Friday remains a stunning achievement to this day and the foundation of Northern Irelands progress in the years since, she said.

But our task today is not to look backward, our task is to look forward and determine how to make progress where progress still needs to be made.

She added: Let us dedicate ourselves to recapturing its spirit, its spirit of renewal, its spirit of compromise, the focus on creating more opportunity for the next generation.

The Stormont Assembly and Executive are currently not operating as part of a DUP protest against post-Brexit trading arrangements.

During his visit to Belfast last week, US president Joe Biden insisted a stable devolved government could deliver an economic windfall for the region.

Ms Hartley said she wanted to build on the US economic investment in Northern Ireland.

As many of you know the United States is the single largest source of foreign direct investment into Northern Ireland, she said.

My feeling is, lets build on that, lets show the world what Northern Ireland has to offer.

We need that spirit of renewal right now, we need to get back to governing and Northern Ireland needs to get back to governing and growing, because economic progress depends on political stability Jane Hartley

Ms Hartley also stated that the increased economic prosperity is dependent on political stability and the Windsor Framework is the route to achieve this.

We need that spirit of renewal right now, we need to get back to governing and Northern Ireland needs to get back to governing and growing, because economic progress depends on political stability, she said.

And in my view the Windsor Framework gives everyone a road map towards a more prosperous future.

So the task is for all parties to walk a few more brave steps and get back to the hard work of government.

Because democracy, however messy, however imperfect, remains the best way for Northern Ireland to decide its own destiny.

Representatives from the five biggest parties in Northern Ireland met on a panel at the conference on Tuesday to discuss issues surrounding the Northern Ireland assembly and the long-term future of the region.

I think they took some brave steps in that panel and I hope we can see scenes like that very soon happening again, discussions, conversations at Stormont, she said.

Ms Hartley concluded her speech by reiterating the optimism shared by Mr Biden during his four-day visit to the island of Ireland.

America believes in Northern Ireland, she said.

We believe in you, we are committed to your progress, we have faith in the peace that you have built and we believe there is no turning back.
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Tanaiste Micheal Martin has affirmed the Irish governments commitment to working with the UK Government to guarantee the Good Friday Agreement.

Speaking at Queens University Belfast alongside Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris, the Irish deputy premier said the UK and Irish governments had a shared responsibility to the agreement.

The Good Friday Agreement includes provisions for a north/south ministerial council and a British-Irish council to promote co-operation between both governments and the Northern Ireland Executive.

This anniversary of the agreement is a reminder that our shared responsibility, our role as co-guarantors, is not a matter of party, policy or preference, it is a solemn responsibility on our two governments, a treaty responsibility enshrined in the 1998 British-Irish agreement, he said.

I am delighted to say that our partnership is manifestly better now than it has been for quite some time Micheal Martin

And it is a responsibility underpinned by the explicit democratic values and wishes of the people in both parts of this island.

It is no secret that our two governments have not always acted in concert at all times in recent years. Even today, there are areas where we disagree fundamentally, such as on the Legacy Bill.

But I am delighted to say that our partnership is manifestly better now than it has been for quite some time.

Of course, like everything else of value, it needs continued care, commitment and investment.

Mr Martin also said his government is committed to all-island co-operation.

This is a small island, regardless of your constitutional preference, it is a shared space, he said.

The geography wont change and there are things that it makes sense to do on an all-island basis.

I urge all elected officials to take their seats in the Assembly and the Executive and get to work on the questions of everyday life that matter to the people of Northern Ireland Micheal Martin

He added: We are prompting and hosting new conversations, through our Shared Island Dialogue series, about what does it mean to share this island.

The Stormont government is currently not operational due to the DUPs protest against post-Brexit trading arrangements.

Mr Martin called for the return of devolved government, saying the UK Government stretched themselves to achieve the Windsor Framework.

The past few years, with the practicalities of Brexit, have been turbulent for Northern Ireland, and for these islands, he said.

The European Commission and the UK Government stretched themselves in recent months to reach an accommodation that works for Northern Ireland.

I know that turbulence will take some time to settle, that parties need to pause and reflect internally on next steps.

But I urge all elected officials to take their seats in the Assembly and the Executive and get to work on the questions of everyday life that matter to the people of Northern Ireland, including healthcare, education, policing, regional imbalances and much more.

Mr Martin echoed the sentiment of former US secretary of state Hillary Clinton at the conference yesterday when he called for Northern Ireland parties to find the spirit of the Good Friday Agreement.

Let us recapture and renew that generous spirit of the agreement, he said.

Lets make the effort again to see this place and see what has happened through the eyes of those we dont agree with.

When we do, I am certain that we will recognise the potential of the opportunity before us.

The potential of a decade of investment and renewal, the potential of our young people when they are given an education and the chance to thrive, potential that we dare not squander.
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Tributes have been paid to a renowned climber from Northern Ireland who died on a Nepalese mountain range.

Noel Hanna, 56, died on Monday while returning from Annapurnas 8,091-metre summit, Thaneswar Guragai of Kathmandu-based Seven Summit Treks said.

The cause of death was not immediately known.

His body was carried down the mountain and taken to the Nepalese capital Kathmandu, Mr Guragai said.

Noel was an absolute legend climbing K2, Manaslu, and Everest 10 times Paul Frew, DUP MLA for Antrim

Mr Hannas friend and fellow mountaineer Pat Falvy told RTE that details were scant, but it is believed that he died at base camp after returning from the mountains summit.

I got a text in from my people in Kathmandu which said that Noel had passed away, he said.

Mr Hanna was an experienced climber, having reached the summit of Mount Everest 10 times and was the first person from the island of Ireland to successfully climb and descend from K2, the worlds second highest mountain.

He lived in Dromore in Co Down with his wife Lynne, who is also an experienced climber, and the two had scaled Everest together in 2016.

Mourne Mountain Adventures said it was very saddened to hear of the death of Mr Hanna and sent its condolences to his family and his wife.

There is some peace in that he spent his last moments doing what he loved best, such a great man and one of Northern Irelands finest mountaineers, it said.

DUP MLA for Antrim Paul Frew said on Twitter: So sorry to hear of the death of Noel Hanna from Northern Ireland who had just become the 1st Irish climber to summit Annapurna.

Noel was an absolute legend climbing K2, Manaslu, and Everest 10 times! My thoughts & prayers are with his family at this sad time.
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The SNP leader Humza Yousaf said he does not believe the party is operating in a criminal way after the police investigation into its finances deepened with the arrest of its treasurer just hours before a major policy statement.

Colin Beattie, a member of the Scottish parliament, was taken into custody by Police Scotland on Tuesday for questioning, the latest development in the saga engulfing the party in power in Scotland.

It follows the arrest two weeks ago of chief executive Peter Murrell  Nicola Sturgeons husband  who was released without charge pending further inquiries.

Detectives are investigating 660,000 raised specifically for Scottish independence campaigning amid allegations sums were diverted, sparking an exit of senior figures. It came as:

Tories said the SNP was in total meltdown

Mr Yousaf announced a climbdown on a key green policy

A defeated leadership candidate expressed sympathy with calls for a re-run

Mr Beattie, 71, is a long-serving treasurer of the SNP and has been MSP for Midlothian North and Musselburgh since 2011, sitting on the parliaments audit committee. He is a former banker.

Mr Yousaf, who last month won a leadership contest to replace Ms Sturgeon as leader and first minister of Scotland, is facing calls to suspend her and others under investigation.

A reporter asked Mr Yousaf: Can you guarantee the party isnt operating in a criminal way right now since you have been leader?

He responded: I certainly dont believe it is at all, no, adding, that he had ordered a review into transparency and good governance and that change is needed within the way the party is operating.

He said he wanted to discuss pertinent issues with Mr Beattie, who was last night released without charge pending further investigation, and said: People are innocent until proven guilty.

The first minister added: Of course if they are guilty I would take the appropriate action, whether that is suspension or going further than that. But it is really important due process takes place.

The response came as Mr Yousaf announced a significant climbdown by delaying the introduction of the controversial bottle deposit scheme until March 2024.

Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar said Mr Yousaf was not running a functioning government, while Meghan Gallacher, deputy leader of the Scottish Tories, said the SNP was in total meltdown.

Humza Yousaf faced questions about turmoil at FMQs on Tuesday (Getty Images)

Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner, in Dundee for the STUC conference, said: The SNP act as though independence is a silver bullet. After 15 years of SNP government, there is not a single institution in Scotland that is stronger now than when they took office.

Craig Hoy, the chair of the Scottish Conservatives, said the police investigation was consuming the SNP and urged the partys leader to get a grip of the situation.

Mr Hoy said: He must show some leadership and suspend Colin Beattie  along with Peter Murrell and Nicola Sturgeon. Colin Beattie should also stand down from membership of the public audit committee until the conclusion of the investigation.

Nicola Sturgeon speaking to reporters outside her home (PA Wire)

There were further media reports over the weekend regarding Ms Sturgeons role in SNP finances  the Sunday Mail cited leaked emails that appeared to show she had blocked plans to hire a fundraising manager for the party despite concerns about transparency.

Ash Regan  who came last in the leadership contest  has said that she has some sympathy with those saying the contest should now be re-run given the ongoing turmoil.

Ms Reagan told BBC Radio 4 she was quite shocked by Mr Beatties arrest and I think some action should be taken by Mr Yousaf.

Colin Beattie and officers raiding SNP headquarters earlier this month (Corbis/Getty)

Asked if Ms Sturgeon and Mr Murrell should be suspended, she told the BBC: If it is found that people have been involved in something of this situation, until that can be cleared up  they should be suspended from the party. But she later clarified that SNP figures should only be suspended if significant wrongdoing was found.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: A 71-year-old man has today, Tuesday, 18 April 2023, been arrested as a suspect in connection with the ongoing investigation into the funding and finances of the Scottish National Party.

An SNP spokesperson said: We have no comment on a live police investigation.
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Boris Johnson got away with breaking the rules as long as he was trying to deliver Brexit, said Professor Sir John Curtice, the elections analyst  but lost popularity over gatherings in Downing Street that broke coronavirus laws.

Sir John was speaking at an Independent panel event on the question: Are political personalities getting in the way of the job? He said that Johnsons style was effective at communicating with people and good at winning elections, but not so well suited to governing.

Andrew Feinberg, The Independents White House correspondent, said the same things applied to Donald Trump. He was not such an effective president, and so lost to Joe Biden, a candidate who had less character. This is a reversal of the usual pattern, in which the Democrats look for rock stars (Kennedy, Clinton, Obama), while the Republicans settle for steadiness (George HW Bush).

You can watch the video of the event, chaired by Philippa Jenkins, The Independents strategy projects editor, here:

 Are political personalities getting in the way of the job?

Yet Trumps appeal remains strong to a significant minority of the electorate  so strong that Feinberg expects him to win the Republican nomination for next years presidential election. Feinberg noted that rival Republican candidates, who might be expected to attack Trump over his arraignment on 34 felony charges, actually supported him. However, Feinberg said that, if next years contest were a re-run of the Trump-Biden election of 2020, Trump would lose, because he is so unpopular outside his base.

John Rentoul, The Independents chief political commentator, said that a charismatic personality who is also an effective administrator is a rare combination  seen in the cases of Margaret Thatcher and Tony Blair  but that the next British election is set to be a contest between two low-charisma leaders offering competent government.
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GCHQ chief Sir Jeremy Fleming has warned ministers about the risks posed by artificial intelligence (AI), amid growing debates about how to regulate the rapidly developing technology.

Downing Street gave little detail about what specific risks the GCHQ boss warned of  but said the update was a clear-eyed look at the potential for things like disinformation and the importance of people being aware of that.

Prime minister Rishi Sunak used the same Cabinet meeting on Tuesday to stress the importance of AI to UK national security and the economy, No 10 said.

A readout of the meeting said ministers agreed on the transformative potential of AI and the vital importance of retaining public confidence in its use and the need for regulation that keeps people safe without preventing innovation.

The prime minister concluded Cabinet by saying that given the importance of AI to our economy and national security, this could be one of the most important policies we pursue in the next few years which is why we must get this right, the readout added.

Asked if the potential for an existential threat to humanity from AI had been considered, the PMs official spokesperson said: We are well aware of the potential risks posed by artificial general intelligence.

The spokesperson said Michelle Donelans science ministry was leading on that issue, but the governments policy was to have appropriate, flexible regulation which can move swiftly to deal with what is a changing technology.

As the public would expect, we are looking to both make the most of the opportunities but also to guard against the potential risk, the spokesperson added.

The government used the recent refresh of the integrated review to launch a new government-industry AI-focused task force on the issue, modelled on the vaccines task force used during the Covid pandemic.

Italy last month said it would temporarily block the artificial intelligence software ChatGPT amid global debate about the power of such new tools.

The AI systems powering such chatbots, known as large language models, are able to mimic human writing styles based on the huge trove of digital books and online writings they have ingested.

Mr Sunak, who created a new Department for Science, Innovation & Technology in a Whitehall reshuffle earlier this year, is known to be enthusiastic about making the UK a science superpower.
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Jeremy Corbyn has said that Sir Keir Starmers claims that the pair were never friends is primary school stuff.

The former Labour leader  blocked from running as the partys candidate in Islington North  said that he had always seen Sir Keir as a colleague when the pair worked together.

The left-winger also hit out at Labours recent controversial social media campaign attacking Rishi Sunak  calling it bad news all around.

It comes after Sir Keir denied he was ever a friend of the former leader. It makes me sad, actually. I dont know why he says that, Mr Corbyn told LBC.

I mean, I worked with Starmer. He was in the shadow cabinet. I went to Brussels with him. Yeah, I worked with him, I worked with lots of people, Mr Corbyn told LBC.

Asked if he regarded Sir Keir as a friend, he said: I regarded him as a colleague. I never regarded him as a friend. I didnt spend time hanging out with him. A friend is somebody you go out for a meal with, have a chat, call their house.

He added: So, why he suddenly announced to the world that I was a friend and then a short time later, now I was not a friend. This is primary school stuff.

He also labelled the now-notorious Labour attack ad, which claimed Mr Sunak did not think child sex abusers should go to prison, as bad news all around.

Mr Corbyn said: I think the idea that you say something unbelievably awful about an opponent as a kind of gesture towards them is not very good or very sensible. I do not believe in that sort of thing.

Labours NEC last month backed a proposal from Sir Keir not to endorse Mr Corbyn in contesting his north London seat for Labour at the next election. Mr Corbyn said it was a shameful attack on party democracy.

Keir Starmer has defended every word of attack ads (PA)

It comes as New Labour architect Peter Mandelson backed Labours controversial attack ad about child sex abuse, arguing that the party cant count on right-wing newspapers to do it on their behalf.

Asked if he would have signed off on such an advert in the New Labour days, he told Times Radio: Yes I would.

Mr Mandelson said the Tories have the support of the right-leaning, the Conservative-supporting media for the personal attacks. Those newspapers do it on their behalf.

Shadow heath secretary Wes Streeting defended the anti-Sunak ads to Labour MPs at a meeting of the Parliamentary Labour Party (PLP) on Monday night.

Recommended Machetes and zombie knives to be banned after loopholes leave police powerless

The close Starmer ally also condemned cowardly briefings against shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper after her team made clear she was not responsible for the first social media ad.

Mr Streeting told MPs that Ms Cooper runs rings around Suella Braverman, as she has every home secretary the Tories have put up to face her.
Two prominent former cabinet ministers have called for a new deal on sick pay for workers.

In an open letter shared today, Priti Patel and Sir Robert Buckland demanded an extension of statutory sick pay from day one of illness.

Statutory sick pay is currently 110 per week, but Priti Patel and Sir Robert Buckland are calling for simple tweaks amid concerns that the government is currently subsidising low sick pay.
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SNP leader Humza Yousaf has said he does not believe that the SNP is operating in a criminal way after the arrest of the partys treasurer Colin Beattie this morning.

Scotlands first minister also said he was surprised when one of my colleagues has been arrested following the second arrest of a senior SNP figure in the Police Scotland probe into the partys finances.

Mr Beattie was taken into custody on Tuesday morning and is being questioned by detectives investigating 660,000 fundraised and ring-fenced for Scottish independence campaigning.

Questioned by reporters if the SNP was operating criminally, Mr Yousaf told reporters: No, certainly I dont believe it is at all, no.

Asked if he was surprised at Mr Beatties arrest, he said: Well, yes, of course Im surprised when one of my colleagues has been arrested. Its a very serious matter, indeed.

Mr Yousaf said he wanted to discuss pertinent issues about Mr Beatties role as the SNP treasurer  and his role on the Scottish parliaments public audit committee  with him whenever he is released by police.

Ill have to speak to Colin Beattie. My understanding is hes still in the police station being questioned, he told reporters at lunchtime on Tuesday.

Clearly when hes off that, Ill have a word with Colin  not about the live investigation  but clearly there are pertinent issues around public audit committee and of course his roles as national treasurer.

Earlier this month Nicola Sturgeons husband Peter Murrell was arrested in connection with the Operation Branchform police investigation. He was later released without charge pending further investigations.

Humza Yousaf faces questions on SNP turmoil on Tuesday (Getty Images)

Ms Yousaf has faced calls from the opposition parties to suspend Ms Sturgeon amid claims she rejected transparency over fundraising and insisted to senior SNP figures that no problems with the partys finances.

Detectives are investigating the partys finances have been handed emails showing Ms Sturgeon quashed the idea of a fundraising manager in June 2021, according to Scotlands Sunday Mail.

The newspaper also published a video in which Ms Sturgeon told the partys NEC there were no reason for concern with the SNP accounts, warning others to be very careful about suggesting there was any problems.

Ash Regan  who came last in the SNP leadership contest  has said that she has some sympathy with those saying the contest should now be re-run given the ongoing turmoil.

Although she said she wasnt call for a re-run, she told BBC Radio 4s Today programme that some people were making that argument, and added: I do have some sympathy with that argument.

Ms Reagan said she was quite shocked by treasurer Colin Beatties arrest and I think some action should be taken by Mr Yousaf.

Asked if Ms Sturgeon and Mr Murrell should be suspended, she told the BBC: If it is found that people have been involved in something of this situation, until that can be cleared up  they should be suspended from the party.

But Ms Reagan later clarified that SNP figures should only be suspended if significant wrongdoing was found.
 Close Im surprised when one of my colleagues is arrested, says SNP leader

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Scottish first minister Humza Yousaf insisted the SNP was not facing bankruptcy amid a financial scandal, as the UK government issued a threat to cut off the partys funding if it fails to find new auditors within weeks.

Mr Yousaf addressed questions over the sustainability of SNP finances, telling reporters: We are definitely not facing bankruptcy, Im pleased to say we are on a steady footing, though he admitted the party stilled owed money to ex-chief executive Peter Murrell, Nicola Sturgeons husband.

The new party leader was yesterday thrust into the role of overseeing the SNPs accounts, as treasurerColin Beattie quit after police detained him for questioning in an investigation into suspected fraud over 660,000 of SNP donations earmarked for independence campaigning.

In Westminster, Commons leader Penny Mordaunt said if the SNP does not file audited accounts by 31 May their short money, payments to opposition parties for parliamentary work, will be cut off.

SNP leader Humza Yousaf said the party was still in conversations with prospective new auditors after the previous firm quit last year.
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More than 5,000 migrants have crossed the English Channel in small boats this year, official figures show amid pressure on the prime ministers pledge to stop the boats.

The same milestone was reached four days earlier in 2022, which saw a record of over 45,000 people make the dangerous journey by the end of the year.

Arrivals have been suppressed by a period of high winds and rough seas in the Channel, but crossings are expected to rise significantly as the weather calms.

Three dinghies containing 113 people arrived on Monday, Home Office statistics show, after one boat made the crossing the previous day.

The figures suggest that the Rwanda deal, threats of deportation under the new Illegal Migration Bill and other government policies are failing to deter asylum seekers or achieve Rishi Sunaks pledge to stop the boats.

Yvette Cooper, Labours shadow home secretary, said the figures show the full scale of the Tory failure to get any grip on Channel crossings.

Theyve failed to tackle the criminal gangs or sort out the chaos in the asylum system, she added. All they offer is rhetoric and gimmicks instead of any kind of serious plan. No surprise that Rishi Sunak is rowing back on his promise to stop the boats this year.

Asked about his pledge during an interview last week, the prime minister admitted his plans to stop boats crossing the Channel wont happen overnight and declined to promise they could be completed by the next general election.

On Tuesday, Mr Sunaks official spokesman said: While we are confident that some of the elements already introduced  stepping up the partnership with the French government to increase intercepts in the Channel  is having an impact, we know that this will be an incremental approach.

He said it was too early to draw conclusions at this stage about the impact of the governments announcements given we know the impact the weather can have on weekly, even daily, crossings, adding: It will be the culmination of the introduction of all the different policies we are introducing which will have the long-lasting impact the public wants.

The 5,000 threshold was passed for 2022 on 13 April, and subsequent days saw significant numbers bringing the total to around 6,200 by 18 April last year.

The government has batted away mounting calls, including from some Conservative MPs, to increase the number of safe and legal routes available for as an alternative to irregular crossings.

Under British law, people must be physically present in the UK in order to claim asylum and there is no visa allowing travel to the country for that purpose.

The most recent official figures show that nine in 10 Channel migrants are asylum seekers and Afghans are the largest nationality, following the collapse of refugees arriving on bespoke routes from the country.

 Rishi Sunak questioned on The Independents investigation on Afghan hero facing deportation

Afghan asylum seekers who resorted to making their own way to the UK after the 2021 evacuation ended are now being threatened with deportation to Rwanda if they arrived on small boats, including a former air force pilot who fought the Taliban alongside British forces.

No flights to Rwanda have taken off since former home secretary Priti Patel signed the agreement on 14 April 2022, and the government has not committed to a timetable as a legal battle over the scheme continues.

During a visit to Rwanda last month, Suella Braverman widened the deal beyond the asylum seekers initially targeted to include all small boat migrants, including modern slavery victims.

The High Court ruled the original agreement lawful in December, but quashed all deportation decisions for individual asylum seekers that it considered.

Court of Appeal judges will reconsider its findings, and whether Rwanda is a safe destination for asylum seekers sent by the UK, next week.

A Home Office spokesperson said: The unacceptable number of people risking their lives by making these dangerous crossings is placing an unprecedented strain on our asylum system.

Our priority is to stop this illegal trade, and our Small Boats Operational Command is working alongside our French partners and other agencies to disrupt the people smugglers.

The government has gone further by introducing legislation which will ensure that those people arriving in the UK illegally are detained and promptly removed to their country of origin or a safe third country.
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Young people in Northern Ireland hold the responsibility for ensuring the Good Friday Agreement endures into the future, Sir Tony Blair and Bertie Ahern have said.

The former British and Irish premiers addressed a group of students at St Malachys College in north Belfast, as part of events marking the 25th anniversary of the peace deal.

Pupils from a range of schools across the north of the city attended the event and asked questions of the two leaders who helped to bring about the agreement in 1998, which largely ended the Troubles in Northern Ireland.

Sir Tony told the pupils they need to understand the past, saying the region has come from a very dark place.

It is hard to know where you should go until you understand where you have been, he said.

I remember visiting Belfast and you would see barbed wire around the city, soldiers patrolling

This was a lockdown place with a lot of conflict.

Today, there are massive problems to deal with but there are things you dont have to deal with which are very important which people did have to deal with back then.

We came from a very dark place.

The former prime minister went on: When I came to office, and Bertie came to office in 1997, the ceasefire had broken down. In the first few months of my premiership there were people being killed on the street here, terrorist attacks.

It was still very ugly.

It is important to remember we have come a long way from where we were Sir Tony Blair

The Good Friday Agreement then began a process not everything stopped after that, we had the Omagh bombing after the Good Friday Agreement.

But we had the opportunity to put in place things which were going to last.

And then we spent another nine years putting the rest of it together.

In the end it will only really work when people disregard what background you came from, what religion you are, and they think we are all part of the same society.

He added: That is why it really is down to you guys.

But it is important to remember we have come a long way from where we were, because if we dont remember that, and you dont understand where you have been, it is harder to chart where you should go.

Mr Ahern said the big challenge of the Good Friday Agreement is ensuring in lasts into the future.

The day we signed it and the day we completed our work 25 years ago really was the start of the process and both of us spent years working on it and people have been doing it ever since, he said.

Belfast is a far better place.

The challenge is to build on it and the challenge is for all of you to take that on, to build a peaceful, prosperous, dynamic Northern Ireland, and to keep on building a better Northern Ireland.

The former taoiseach added: There are problems everywhere in the world, there are problems in every society, and Northern Ireland has a few unique ones because of the history of the Troubles, but I think the big thing is every day, every week, every month, every year, to keep on building on the Good Friday Agreement.

To try to get a shared society to deal with the differences, and to try and build a better future.

St Malachys College principal Paul McBride opened the event, introducing Sir Tony and Mr Ahern as two of the key decision-makers in creating the agreement.

Emphasising the importance of education, he said: We are coming together to skill our young learners so that we can best meet the needs of our current and future workforce.

The two former leaders met St Malachys head boy Diarmuid Hanna and discussed his plans for the future after he leaves school.

At the end they took time to shake hands with many of the young people who attended the event.
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A US diplomatic convoy in Sudan was fired upon in a reckless and irresponsible action, according to secretary of state Antony Blinken.

The Sudanese army and a powerful rival force have been engaged in an all-out power struggle for four days now in what could bring the North African country on the verge of a full-blown civil war.

The two sides have used fighter jets, tanks, artillery and other heavy weaponry to fight each other in a conflict that has led to 185 deaths and 1,800 injuries, UN envoy Volker Perthes told reporters. The death toll could be greater, officials have warned.

On Monday, EU ambassador to Sudan Aidan OHara was attacked in his home in the capital Khartoum, the blocs foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said.

A few hours ago, the EU Ambassador in Sudan was assaulted in his own residency, Mr Borrell tweeted, without saying if the envoy was injured.

A day later, Mr Blinken said a convoy belonging to the US was attacked.

The vehicles of the US diplomatic mission in Sudan had a clear distinction with diplomatic license plates and a US flag, he said on Tuesday during a meeting of Group of Seven foreign ministers in the Japanese mountain resort of Karuizawa.

This action was reckless, it was irresponsible and of course unsafe, he said.

He said all the people in the group were safe and raised Washingtons concerns about the overall situation in Sudan. Mr Blinken said he made it clear to the factions on both sides that any attacks on US diplomats would be unacceptable.

The clashes had erupted on Saturday between the countrys military, led by General Abdel-Fattah Burhan and paramilitary group Rapid Support Forces (RSF) led by Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, better known as Hemedti.

The military leader said the RSF general is leading an attempted coup and rebellion against the state while Mr Dagalo accused the army of violating an UN-brokered temporary humanitarian ceasefire.

The two were former allies and had jointly orchestrated an October 2021 military coup.

Mr Blinken had separate phone calls with Mr Burhan and Mr Dagalo, calling the two warring former allies to reach a ceasefire immediately, according to US State Department principal deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel.

He said indiscriminate military operations are recklessly endangering civilians, diplomats, including US personnel, and humanitarian personnel.

He said the preliminary reports on the attack on the US diplomatic convoy indicated the attackers were linked to the RSF.
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Sudan's rival commanders said said to have agreed a 24-hour ceasefire over the fierce clashes in Khartoum and other cities

The ceasefire will start at 6pm local time (4pm GMT) on Tuesday evening and will not extend beyond the agreed 24 hours, Army General Shams El Din Kabbashi, a member of Sudan's ruling military council, said on Al Arabiya TV.

The US secretary of state, Antony Blinken, held separate calls with the army chief and the head of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), whose power struggle has killed at least 185 people across the country and derailed an internationally-backed plan to shift to civilian rule after decades of autocracy and military control.

RSF leader General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, whose whereabouts have not been disclosed since fighting began at the weekend, said the RSF approved the 24-hour ceasefire to ensure the safe passage of civilians and the evacuation of the wounded.

In a post on Twitter, Hemedti said he had "discussed pressing issues" with Blinken during their call and more talks were planned. The RSF also issued a statement saying it was waging a continuing battle to restore "the rights of our people" in what it called a new revolution.

A previous shorter ceasefire agreed for Sunday was not fully observed. Artillery volleys, strikes by combat aircraft and street fighting have made it almost impossible to travel in Khartoum, trapping residents and foreigners in their homes.

A US diplomatic convoy came under fire on Monday in Sudan in an apparent attack by fighters associated with Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), UMr Blinken said on Tuesday, in an incident he described as "reckless" and "irresponsible".

"I can confirm that yesterday we had an American diplomatic convoy that was fired on," Mr Blinken said at a news conference in the Japanese resort town of Karuizawa where he attended a meeting of the G7 foreign ministers. The people in the diplomatic convoy were safe.

"I made very clear that any attacks threats, dangerous posed to our diplomats were totally unacceptable... We have deep concerns of course about the overall security environment as it affects civilians, as it affects diplomats, as it affects aid workers," he said.

The main international airport has been under attack, halting commercial flights.

Fighters have attacked aid workers, hospitals and diplomats, including an EU ambassador assaulted in his home. Three workers for the World Food Programme were killed in the fighting on Saturday, and a UN plane was hit in crossfire.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies said it was nearly impossible to provide humanitarian services around the capital. It warned that Sudan's health system was at risk of breakdown.

The outbreak of fighting followed rising tensions over a plan for the RSF's integration into the regular military.

Discord over the timetable for that process delayed the signing of the framework deal to launch a civilian transition that was due to be signed earlier this month.

It comes four years after former president Omar Bashir was toppled by popular protests, and nearly two years after a subsequent military coup.

Underscoring the risk a prolonged conflict presents to regional stability, army general Kabbashi said two neighbouring countries were attempting to provide aid to the RSF. He did not identify the countries.

The fighting has affected several parts of the country since Saturday, including the western desert region of Darfur, which borders Chad and suffered warfare from 2003 that killed as many as 300,000 people and displaced 2.7 million.

The RSF emerged from the janjaweed militia that fought alongside Bashir's government forces in Darfur before the conflict ended with a 2020 peace agreement.

The United Nations reported that at least 65 people have been killed in Darfur since Saturday, including in clashes involving heavy artillery.

Eight people had been killed in Nyala, one of Sudan's largest cities, located in South Darfur, the UN said. The city also saw extensive looting of NGOs, businesses and hospitals, it said in a statement, adding that shooting was ongoing.

Reuters
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A claimed 24-hour ceasfire agreed by Sudans worrying genernals has broken down  with aid workers and officials warning some areas are just days away from running out of food and water.

Fighting was still underway in Sudans capital hours after the ceasefire was supposed to take effect. The military and a paramilitary group known as the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) each accused the other of violating the truce, which was to take effect Tuesday at 6pm local time. Residents said gunfire and explosions continued to echo across the capital, Khartoum, and that while some people had ventured out to buy food, most were sheltering in place. The US Embassy also said the fighting was ongoing and advised Americans to stay indoors.

Deadly clashes between the Sudanese armed forces and rival paramilitary group, RSF, have raged since Saturday devastating Khartoum and nearby cities as well as the western conflict-ravaged province of Darfur, leaving many trapped. Artillery volleys, airstrikes, heavy machine gunfire and street fighting have already killed at least 185 people in some of the fiercest clashes in decades. The violence has triggered a catastrophic humanitarian crisis, according to the United Nations.

Residents of Khartoum told The Independent they fear the death toll is even higher as civilians are unable to collect the bodies which litter the streets, ambulances cannot attend to the wounded, hospitals have been shelled and families are unable to secure supplies.

A US diplomatic convoy carrying foreign diplomats came under fire and reports circulated that gunmen in downtown Khartoum were looting buildings and raping women. Fighters have also attacked aid workers and diplomats, including an EU ambassador who was assaulted in his home.

Fearing an unprecedented humanitarian collapse, US secretary of state Antony Blinken said he had telephoned both RSF leader General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, and army chief General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan. In the calls, he said he appealed for a 24-hour ceasefire to allow the Sudanese to be safely reunited with families and to provide them with relief.

After the call on Tuesday, Hemedti said the RSF approved the ceasefire to ensure the safe passage of civilians and the evacuation of the wounded.

However, residents of Khartoum and other cities said that previous attempts at ceasefires had not held and civilians are afraid to move as the pause folded.

In Darfur, which has already been gripped by a 20-year conflict that killed as many as 300,000 people and displaced 2.7 million, humanitarian aid workers told The Independent they themselves were unable to move and were fast running out of food and water. They said that left them powerless to help the tens of thousands of internally displaced people in camps that rely completely on their life-saving aid.

Where I live with my five colleagues we have run out of water. There has been no electricity for 72 hours to pump the water supply, said Thomas Okedi, area manager for the Norwegian Refugee Council humanitarian organisation in al-Fashir, North Darfur.

He said the fighting in the streets also prevented people from being able to evacuate: the United Nations reported at least 65 people have been killed in the Darfur region since Saturday.

Food supplies for the entire city cannot last for more than three days as al-Fashir relies entirely on supplies from outside areas which are right now contested. Medical services are overstretched.

Mr Okedi added that virtually all aid agencies and charities had had to halt their programmes because of the violence. Three World Food Programme staffers have been shot dead during the fighting while attempting to evacuate as has a staff member for Relief International. An NRC employee has also been wounded by gunfire in a separate incident.

It is a terrifying situation of hopelessness, knowing that there are more than 900,000 people who are internally displaced in north Darfur but we cannot reach them. And now many more thousands have been displaced in the last few days, Mr Okedi added.

Fighting erupted at the weekend as a bitter rivalry between the countrys two most powerful generals  Hemedti and Burhan  reached breaking point.

Burhan and Hemedti, who currently hold the two top positions in the countrys ruling Sovereign Council, joined forces in October 2021 to instigate a military coup, just two years after the toppling of long-term autocrat Omar Bashir by nationwide protests.

However, tensions had boiled over an internationally-backed political agreement to transition to civilian rule, which was supposed to be signed last month and would have seen the RSFs integration into the regular military.

The conflict has paralysed the country. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies said it was nearly impossible to provide humanitarian services around the capital. It warned that Sudans health system was at risk of breakdown.
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Some conservatives upset with Anheuser-Busch over a minor ad campaign featuring a trans influencer now believe that the company's CEO was put in charge of the company in order to make the company "woke."

The company's CEO, Brendan Whitworth, has become the target of a conservative conspiracy theory that his prior employment is influencing the brand's current direction.

Mr Whitworth joined Anheuser-Busch in 2013 and became CEO in 2021.

When conservative commentators found that his LinkedIn page listed the Central Intelligence Agency as one of his past employers, they worked up a theory that he is part of a wide-ranging psyop intended to launder "woke" ideas to the masses.

Benny Johnson, a 35-year-old man who runs a conservative meme show on conservative social media site Parler, is one of the most notable commentators to spread the theory.

Hey guys, I think I found the problem, he wrote on Twitter. The CEO of Budweiser is a CIA operative. No, really.

That sentiment was echoed by another notable Twitter user going by the name DC_Draino. He suggest that Mr Whitworth  despite being a Republican  was ordered by someone to push the "regime's Leftist agenda."

Bud Lights Woke marketing makes a lot more sense when you realize their CEO was in the CIA, he wrote. Hell never apologize for what AB did b/c hes a foot soldier for the regimes Leftist agenda.

Mr Whitworth joined the Marines in 1998 and served for three years before he joined the CIA in 2001, where he worked as a recruiter. He then attended Harvard Business School before joining AB.

Cans of Bud Light beer are seen, Thursday Jan. 10, 2019, in Washington. On Friday, April 7, 2023 (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, File) (Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

If the CIA  an agency whose entire mission involves clandestine work  was trying to influence the culture through beer ads, it did not hide its involvement well, since Mr Whitworth is not shy about sharing his former employment with the organisation.

That has not stopped some conservatives from believing the theory.

I just learned that the current CEO of Anheuser-Busch is actually former CIA. Boy, does that explain A LOT, another user wrote. We all know how involved the Clowns In America are in pushing Communist/Marxist agendas all over the world. Playbook known.

Mr Whitworth put out a statement following the apoplectic boycott some conservatives launched against Budweiser beers in the wake of an ad campaign featuring trans influencer Dylan Mulvaney. He assured readers the company did not intend to wade into a culture war, which some progressives took as him walking back the company's support of Ms Mulvaney.

We never intended to be part of a discussion that divides people, he wrote. We are in the business of bringing people together over a beer.
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The suspect in the shooting of Kansas City teenager Ralph Yarl was released on bail after handing himself in to the police a day after prosecutors filed charges against him.

The Clay County Sheriffs Office announced that the 84-year-old had surrendered at a detention centre just before 1.30pm local time Tuesday - more than 20 hours after charges were filed against him. Just after 3pm, reports emerged that he had posted $200,000 bond.

Andrew Lester, 84, is accused of shooting the 16-year-old in the head and hand after he mistakenly rang the doorbell at the wrong home as he tried to collect his younger twin brothers.

Andrew Lester, charged in the shooting of Ralph Yarl, has surrendered at our Detention Center and is in custody, the Clay County Sheriffs Office said earlier in a statement. He is in the booking process right now.

Prosecutors had already set a $200,000 bond for Mr Lester, and he was quickly released less than two hours after being arrested by authorities, reported KMBC. He was required to pay 10 per cent of the bond.

Under the conditions of his release, he is not allowed to possess weapons of any type or have any contact with Ralph Yarl or his family, reported FOX4.

Clay County prosecutor Zachary Thompson confirmed in a press conference on Monday afternoon that there was a racial component to the case as he announced Mr Lester had been charged with two felonies: assault in the first degree, which carries a punishment of 10 to 30 years or life imprisonment, and armed criminal action, which carries a punishment of 3 to 15 years.

Following the shooting on 13 April, Mr Lester was initially taken into custody and placed on a 24-hour hold.

However, under Missouri state law, a person can only be held for 24 hours on suspicion of a felony before officials must either charge or release them. Attorneys for Ralph  and jail officials  said that the suspect was actually released after less than two hours.

This is his booking photo: pic.twitter.com/HCdLpiTPsx  Clay County, Missouri Sheriff (@SheriffClayCo) April 18, 2023

The 16-year-old high school junior, was shot in the head and hand as he tried to collect his siblings from a friends house on 115th Terrace in Kansas City, Missouri, on the evening of 13 April, according to the Kansas City Police Department (KCPD).

Police said the teenager accidentally went to a home on 115th Street by mistake.

According to court documents, a witness told police that they saw a vehicle pull into Mr Lesters driveway at around 9.30pm.

Andrew Lester, charged in the shooting of Ralph Yarl, has surrendered at our Detention Center. He is in custody.  Clay County, Missouri Sheriff (@SheriffClayCo) April 18, 2023

Mr Lester told investigators that he had just lain down when the doorbell rang, he picked up a .32 pistol and opened the interior door of his house.

He told police that he saw a Black male pulling on the exterior door and thought he was trying to break into the property.

He claimed he was scared to death at the boys size and feared he was unable to defend himself given his elderly age, the documents state.

Mr Lester said that he fired twice and that no words were exchanged with the victim.

During an informal police interview at Childrens Mercy Hospital, the teenager said that he did not pull the door and was waiting outside.

He told investigators that a man opened the door and immediately shot him, causing him to fall to the ground where he was shot for a second time.

Ralph told police the man said, Dont come around here.

Following the shooting, Ralph managed to stumble away to some other homes in the neighbourhood to get help and was rushed to hosptial.

On Monday, he was released from hospital to recover at home from his injuries.
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Black teenager Ralph Yarl was shot by a white homeowner after he accidentally rang the doorbell at the wrong house while going to collect his brothers.

The 16-year-old accidental visit to Andrew Lesters home in the Northland suburb of Kansas City quickly turned violent and the high school student was left hospitalised with serious injuries.

Instead of going to a home in the 1100 block of Northeast 115th Terrace in Kansas City, Missouri, to pick up his brothers, he mistakenly went to Northeast 115th Street, police said.

Now prosecutors have brought charges against the homeowner.

Here is everything we know about the suspect.

The homeowner

The identity of the shooter was revealed on Monday afternoon as Andrew D Lester, aged 84.

He is now facing the rest of his life behind bars over the shooting.

His family broke its silence for the first time to condemn the shooting.

Mr Lesters grandson Daniel Ludwig told The Daily Beast that the violent encounter never should have happened.

Its just crazy. I wish it didnt happen, he said.

Mr Ludwig, who said he is very close to Mr Lester, revealed he understands how easy it was for Ralph to get lost on the streets.

Id go to visit my grandpa, and I would get lost on those streets, he said.

Its easy to do. They all look the same and everything.

Other people who knew the 84-year-old have described a penchant for anger and conspiracy theories.

Another grandson Klint Ludwig said that he was estranged from his grandfather because of the 84-year-olds right-wing views.

Andrew Lester appears in court to answer charges of first-degree assault and armed criminal action on Wednesday (AP)

He claimed that, during the Covid-19 pandemic, Mr Lester had shared a crazy conspiracy theory about Dr Anthony Fauci.

He said his grandfather also used to make disparaging comments about Black people, gay people, and immigrants  and kept a large number of guns in his home.

Another relative, who did not want to be named, said Mr Lester spent considerable time at home in a living room chair, watching conservative news programs at high volume.

Mr Lesters ex-wife Mary Clayton has also spokem out to reveal why she isnt surprised by the shooting.

Ms Clayton, who was married to Mr Lester when she was young and had three children with him, told The New York Times she was always scared of her former husband.

During their 14-year marriage, she said he had anger issues and would smash up items around their home.

She called the police at least once over his rages but she said that nothing was done about it and she was told Mr Lester could do what he wanted in his home.

I was always scared of him, she said, adding of the shooting: It doesnt surprise me, what happened.

The charges

Following the shooting, Mr Lester was initially taken into custody on Thursday and placed on a 24-hour hold.

However, under Missouri state law, a person can only be held for 24 hours on suspicion of a felony before officials must either charge or release them. Attorneys for Ralph  and jail officials  said that the suspect was actually released after less than two hours.

Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves said at a press conference on Sunday that  due to Ralphs injuries  police had been unable to get a formal statement from him.

This was also contradicted by Ralphs attorneys who said that the teenager gave an interview from his hospital bed on Friday.

In an appearance on CNN, Mr Crump described the shooting as an attempted murder.

The home where the suspect shot Ralph Yarl (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

On Monday afternoon, Clay County prosecutor Zachary Thompson announced that Mr Lester had been charged with two felonies: assault in the first degree, which carries a punishment of 10 to 30 years or life imprisonment, and armed criminal action, which carries a punishment of 3 to 15 years.

However, more than 20 hours passed before Mr Lester was taken into custody.

He surrendered to authorities on Tuesday before being released again less than two hours later after posting $200,000 bond.

Under the conditions of his release, he is not allowed to possess weapons of any type or have any contact with Ralph or his family.

Mr Lester appeared in court for the first time on Wednesday for his arraignment.

He pleaded not guilty to the two felonies and was released on bond. His next court appearance is scheduled for 1 June.

The 84-year-old is facing life in prison on the charges but is also said to be under investigation for a possible hate crime.

Mr Merritt told reporters outside Clay County Court on Wednesday that the Justice Department is looking into the case.

Before I even made it to Kansas City, we reached out to the Department of Justice, myself and my co-counsel Ben Crump, we have some longstanding relationships there, Mr Merritt said.

We thought that this was something the DOJ should be looking into. They are (looking into it). Its under investigation, theyve received our complaint and now theyre looking into it.

On Monday, when asked if Mr Lester could be charged with a hate crime by the state, the prosecutor said that it would not be possible under Missouri law.

In Missouri, a hate crime is a lower level of felony and to add the charge would amount to double jeopardy, he said.

Ralphs attorneys have also questioned why the suspect has not been charged with attempted murder.

While Mr Merritt said the family is happy that two felony charges have been brought, he has questions as to why Mr Lester has not been charged with attempted murder.

Ralph Yarl was shot twice on 13 April (Ben Crump Law)

He told CBS Mornings on Tuesday that, while Mr Lesters age may be a factor in the case, the current and former president of the United States is about that age. He made a conscious decision to shoot a 16-year-old boy, he said.

Ralph Yarl was shot because he was armed with nothing but other than his Black skin, he said.

The motive

Initially, officials denied any racial element to the shooting and offered no motive for the gunman opening fire on the teen.

Speaking on Sunday, the police chief said that there was no evidence to indicate that the shooting was racially motivated.

But, on Monday, when charges were announced, the prosecutor said he believed there was a racial component to the case.

He did not give details as to what led officials to that conclusion and nothing to that end was outlined in the probable cause document.

Mr Merritt, who is representing Ralph and his family, said that they were meeting with the prosecutor on Tuesday where they hoped to learn what racial element investigators had found.

He told CBS Mornings that the suspects claim that he felt threatened by a Black boy ringing his doorbell sounds awfully familiar.

Being Black has been seen as a threat often in this country. It is unjustifiable for him to use deadly force against this so-called threat. Again, Blackness is not a threat, he said.

He added that the investigation itself shows bias in the treatment of the Black teen and the white shooter.

We saw law enforcement respond by essentially criminalising the boy, he said of Mr Lesters lack of arrest.

[Mr Lester] went home and slept in his bed that night, he said.

Andrew Lester in mugshot (Clay County Jail)

Mr Crump told CNN that he believes things would have been different if the races of the suspect and victim were reversed.

Nobody can tell us if the roles were reversed, and you had a Black man shoot a white, 16-year-old teenager for merely ringing his doorbell that he would not be arrested, he said.

I mean, this citizen went home and slept in his bed at night after shooting that young Black kid in the head.

What happened

According to court documents, a witness told police that they saw a vehicle pull into Mr Lesters driveway at around 9.30pm.

Mr Lester told investigators that he had just lain down when the doorbell rang, he picked up a .32 pistol and opened the interior door of his house.

He told police that he saw a Black male pulling on the exterior door and thought he was trying to break into the property.

He claimed he was scared to death at the boys size and feared he was unable to defend himself given his elderly age, the documents state.

Mr Lester said that he fired twice and that no words were exchanged with the victim.

Ralph Yarl was discharged from hospital after suffering two gunshot wounds (AP)

During an informal police interview at Childrens Mercy Hospital, the teenager said that he did not pull the door and was waiting outside.

He told investigators that a man opened the door and immediately shot him, causing him to fall to the ground where he was shot for a second time.

Ralph told police the man said, Dont come around here.

Following the shooting, Ralph managed to stumble away to some other homes in the neighbourhood to get help and was rushed to hosptial.

On Monday, he was released from hospital to recover at home from his injuries.

Celebrities join demands for justice as GoFundMe appeal soars

Before charges were announced  and when the suspect had been freed from police custody without charge  several celebrities joined calls for justice for Ralph.

Halle Berry posted Ralphs image on Twitter and urged her Twitter followers to contact the local prosecutor to urge him to bring charges against the homeowner.

His name is #RalphYarl and Im sick and tired of this feelingmy heart completely broke when I learned this precious 16-year-old, who accidentally rang the door of the wrong address in an attempt to pick up his siblings, was shot in the head by a man who didnt want him on his property. This innocent child is now fighting for his life, she wrote.

Fellow Black actor Viola Davis also took to Instagram to demand action.

ALL HANDS ON DECK!! she wrote, directing people to the posts of civil rights attorneys Ben Crump and Lee Merritt.

Meanwhile a GoFundMe appeal to try and help raise funds for his treatment saw donations flooding in.

On Thursday morning  around two days after its launch  a staggering $3.35m had been raised.

On the campaign page, a woman who identified herself as Ralphs aunt described the teenager as a fantastic kid who had dreams of doing to Texas A&M University to major in chemical Engineering.

At school, he is a member of the Technology Student Association and Science Olympia Team. Jazz and competition band. He is a section leader in the marching band; a scholar and one of the top base clarinet players in Missouri. He recently earned Missouri All-State Band recognition with an honorable mention. He plays multiple instruments in the metropolitan youth orchestra. He is a 2022 Missouri scholar academy alumni. Ralph can often be found with a musical instrument. He loves them all, the page reads.

Protesters in support of Ralph Yarl on Tuesday 18 April (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

Last summer, Ralph attended Missouri Scholars Academy, where he got a full college life experience. His goal is to attend Texas A&M to major in chemical Engineering.

When asked how he plans to get into this university, he said, Well, if they have a scholarship for music or academics, I know I can get it. Ralphs teacher and friends describe him as  a kind soul, quiet, friendly, well-mannered, always willing to help, super smart, and a musical genius. Ralph was looking forward to graduating high school and finally getting the opportunity to visit West Africa before starting college.

Life looks a lot different right now. Even though he is doing well physically, he has a long road ahead mentally and emotionally. The trauma that he has to endure and survive is unimaginable. He is our miracle. We have heard these types of stories many times, and unfortunately, most black boys are not alive to get another chance.

Protesters have also taken to the streets of Kansas City in support of Ralph and to demand justice for his alleged attacker.

On Tuesday, over a thousand students at Ralphs school Staley High School staged a walkout  or unity walk  in solidarity with their classmate.

They were joined by school staff, civil rights leaders and politicians in a huge rally in downtown Kansas City where they chanted Justice for Ralph and We love you Ralph.

I was out here to support my friend Ralph through this time he is going through today, one of the boys friends told KSHB.

The student said he wasnt surprised by the number of people who had come out to support Ralph because everyone is willing to support a friend at our school.
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Last week, Ralph Yarl found himself lying in a hospital bed with gunshot wounds to his left forehead and right arm.

Harrowing photos showed the Black teenager with tubes coming out of him and his head and arm wrapped up in bandages.

He is alive but his family says he has a long road to recovery ahead  a recovery that threatens to derail his dreams of going off to college to pursue a career in engineering.

So how did he end up here?

He went to pick up his younger brothers from a friends house, accidentally rang the doorbell at the wrong address and was shot twice by the 84-year-old white homeowner, Andrew Lester.

Its a horror case that has led protesters to take to the streets, civil rights attorneys to rally behind the 16-year-olds family, and Hollywood celebrities use their platform to amplify the case  all demanding justice for the Black teenager and for the white homeowner to face charges.

Heres what we know so far about the case:

The shooting

The 16-year-old high school junior had gone to collect his siblings from a friends house on 115th Terrace in Kansas City, Missouri, on the evening of 13 April, according to Kansas City Police.

Police said that the teenager got muddled up with the address and went to a home on 115th Street by mistake.

Ralph allegedly rang the doorbell and the homeowner opened fire on him through a glass screen door using a .32 caliber revolver.

The aspiring Texas A&M University student was shot twice  once in the head and once in the arm.

Prosecutors said that there is no indication Ralph and the homeowner exchanged any words with each other before the shooting unfolded and there is no footage of the encounter.

According to a probable cause statement, Mr Lester told police he was in bed when he heard the doorbell ring and so he grabbed a handgun.

The 16-year-old high school junior had gone to collect his siblings from a friends house on 13 April when he got the wrong home and was shot (Ben Crump Law via AP)

When he saw Ralph, he claimed he was scared to death at the boys size and feared he was unable to defend himself given his elderly age.

He claimed he thought the boy was trying to break in and so shot twice through his exterior glass door, the documents state.

However, Ralph told police from his bed at Childrens Mercy Hospital that he only pressed the doorbell and did not try to enter the home.

He said he was waiting at the door when the man opened it and immediately shot him. He fell to the ground and was shot a second time, he said.

After being shot, he said he heard the shooter warn him: Dont come around here.

Prosecutors also said that the investigation also found no evidence to suggest Ralph was trying to enter the property.

Following the shooting, Ralph managed to stumble away to some other homes in the neighbourhood to get help.

Unfortunately, he had to run to 3 different homes before someone finally agreed to help him after he was told to lie on the ground with his hands up, the family said in a GoFundme campaign.

Kansas City Police were called to reports of a shooting and arrived to find the teenager outside with gunshot wounds.

According to a probable cause statement, Mr Lester told police he was in bed when he heard the doorbell ring and so he grabbed a handgun.

When he saw Ralph, he claimed he was scared to death at the boys size and feared he was unable to defend himself given his elderly age.

He claimed he thought the boy was trying to break in and so shot twice through his exterior glass door, the documents state.

However, Ralph told police from his bed at Childrens Mercy Hospital that he did not pull the door  but only pressed the doorbell.

Police officer walks past the house where the shooting took place (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

He said he was waiting at the door when the man opened it and immediately shot him.

He fell to the ground and was shot a second time, he said.

After being shot, he said he heard the shooter warn him: Dont come around here.

Investigators also said that Ralph did not enter the home.

The homeowner

White homeowner Andrew Lester, an 84-year-old retired aircraft mechanic, is now facing the rest of his life in prison for shooting the Black teenager.

His family broke its silence for the first time to condemn the shooting.

Mr Lesters grandson Daniel Ludwig told The Daily Beast that the violent encounter never should have happened.

Its just crazy. I wish it didnt happen, he said.

Mr Ludwig, who said he is very close to Mr Lester, revealed he understands how easy it was for Ralph to get lost on the streets.

Id go to visit my grandpa, and I would get lost on those streets, he said.

Its easy to do. They all look the same and everything.

Other people who knew the 84-year-old have described a penchant for anger and conspiracy theories.

Another grandson Klint Ludwig said that he was estranged from his grandfather because of the 84-year-olds right-wing views.

He claimed that, during the Covid-19 pandemic, Mr Lester had shared a crazy conspiracy theory about Dr Anthony Fauci.

He said his grandfather also used to make disparaging comments about Black people, gay people, and immigrants  and kept a large number of guns in his home.

Another relative, who did not want to be named, said Mr Lester spent considerable time at home in a living room chair, watching conservative news programs at high volume.

Andrew Lester appears in court to answer charges of first-degree assault and armed criminal action on Wednesday (AP)

Mr Lesters ex-wife Mary Clayton has also spokem out to reveal why she isnt surprised by the shooting.

Ms Clayton, who was married to Mr Lester when she was young and had three children with him, told The New York Times she was always scared of her former husband.

During their 14-year marriage, she said he had anger issues and would smash up items around their home.

She called the police at least once over his rages but she said that nothing was done about it and she was told Mr Lester could do what he wanted in his home.

I was always scared of him, she said, adding of the shooting: It doesnt surprise me, what happened.

Following the shooting, Mr Lester was initially taken into custody on Thursday and placed on a 24-hour hold.

However, under Missouri state law, a person can only be held for 24 hours on suspicion of a felony before officials must either charge or release them.

Attorneys for Ralph  and jail officials  said that the suspect was actually released after less than two hours.

Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves said at a press conference on Sunday that  due to Ralphs injuries  police had been unable to get a formal statement from him. This was also contradicted by Ralphs attorneys who said that the teenager gave an interview from his hospital bed on Friday.

On Monday morning, before charges were announced, Ben Crump and Lee Merritt  the prominent civil rights attorneys now representing the victim and his family  condemned the release of the armed and dangerous suspect.

There is no excuse for the release of this armed and dangerous suspect after admitting to shooting an unarmed, non-threatening, and defenseless teenager that rang his doorbell, the attorneys said. We demand swift action from Clay County prosecutors and law enforcement to identify, arrest, and prosecute to the full extent of the law the man responsible for this horrendous and unjustifiable shooting.

Police booking photo of Andrew Lester, charged with shooting Ralph Yarl (Kansas City Police)

The motive

Initially, officials denied any racial element to the shooting and offered no motive for the gunman opening fire on the teen.

Speaking on Sunday, the police chief said that there was no evidence to indicate that the shooting was racially motivated.

But, on Monday, when charges were announced, the prosecutor said he believed there was a racial component to the case.

He did not give details as to what led officials to that conclusion and nothing to that end was outlined in the probable cause document.

Mr Merritt, who is representing Ralph and his family, said that they were meeting with the prosecutor on Tuesday where they hoped to learn what racial element investigators had found.

He told CBS Mornings that the suspects claim that he felt threatened by a Black boy ringing his doorbell sounds awfully familiar.

Being Black has been seen as a threat often in this country. It is unjustifiable for him to use deadly force against this so-called threat. Again, Blackness is not a threat, he said.

Lee Merritt, lawyer for the family of Ralph Yarl, arrives for the initial court appearance of Andrew Lester (Getty Images)

He added that the investigation itself shows bias in the treatment of the Black teen and the white shooter.

We saw law enforcement respond by essentially criminalising the boy, he said of Mr Lesters lack of arrest.

[Mr Lester] went home and slept in his bed that night, he said.

Mr Crump told CNN that he believes things would have been different if the races of the suspect and victim were reversed.

Nobody can tell us if the roles were reversed, and you had a Black man shoot a white, 16-year-old teenager for merely ringing his doorbell that he would not be arrested, he said.

I mean, this citizen went home and slept in his bed at night after shooting that young Black kid in the head.

The charges

On Monday afternoon, Clay County prosecutor Zachary Thompson finally announced that Mr Lester had been charged with two felonies: assault in the first degree, which carries a punishment of 10 to 30 years or life imprisonment, and armed criminal action, which carries a punishment of 3 to 15 years.

However, more than 20 hours passed before Mr Lester was taken into custody.

He surrendered to authorities on Tuesday before being released again less than two hours later after posting $200,000 bond.

Under the conditions of his release, he is not allowed to possess weapons of any type or have any contact with Ralph or his family.

Mr Lester appeared in court for the first time on Wednesday for his arraignment.

He pleaded not guilty to the two felonies and was released on bond. His next court appearance is scheduled for 1 June.

The 84-year-old is facing life in prison on the charges but is also said to be under investigation for a possible hate crime.

Andrew Lester in mugshot after he surrendered to authorities on 18 April (Clay County Jail)

Mr Merritt told reporters outside Clay County Court on Wednesday that the Justice Department is looking into the case.

Before I even made it to Kansas City, we reached out to the Department of Justice, myself and my co-counsel Ben Crump, we have some longstanding relationships there, Mr Merritt said.

We thought that this was something the DOJ should be looking into. They are (looking into it). Its under investigation, theyve received our complaint and now theyre looking into it.

On Monday, when asked if Mr Lester could be charged with a hate crime by the state, the prosecutor said that it would not be possible under Missouri law.

In Missouri, a hate crime is a lower level of felony and to add the charge would amount to double jeopardy, he said.

Ralphs attorneys have also questioned why the suspect has not been charged with attempted murder.

While Mr Merritt said the family is happy that two felony charges have been brought, he has questions as to why Mr Lester has not been charged with attempted murder.

He told CBS Mornings on Tuesday that, while Mr Lesters age may be a factor in the case, the current and former president of the United States is about that age. He made a conscious decision to shoot a 16-year-old boy, he said.

Ralph Yarl was shot because he was armed with nothing but other than his Black skin, he said.

Ralph released from hospital

Ralph was rushed to hospital after the shooting where he was listed in critical condition.

Two days later, Ralph was released from hospital to continue his recovery at home.

The 16-year-olds mother Cleo Nagbe spoke out to CBS Mornings Gayle King on Tuesday about the horror injuries that her son suffered in the shooting, revealing that he had a bullet lodged in his head for a staggering 12 hours.

Ralph was shot on the top of his left eye  his frontal lobe and the top of his right arm, she said.

He had the bullet up here [in his head] for about 12 hours before it was taken out, so that injury is extensive.

Ralph Yarl lies in hospital bed (Shaun King)

Ms Nagbe said that the extensive injuries mean that he has a long road ahead to recovery.

The residual effect of that injury is going to stay with him for quite a while, she said.

Ms Nagbe said that his return home needs to be put [...] into perspective as it was possible due to many family members being medical professionals.

Hes home but I want to remind everybody that Ralph is home because he is surrounded by a team of medical professionals, she said.

Now, her son is now left replaying Thursdays attack over and over again, she said,

You can see that he is just replaying the situation over and over again. And that just doesnt stop my tears either, because when you see your kid just sits there and constantly he just  tears are just rolling from both sides of his eyes, theres nothing you can say to him, she said.

She said that her son is able to communicate when he feels like it but he mostly just sits there and stares and the buckets of tears just rolls down his eyes.

On Wednesday, Mr Merritt shared the first photo of the Black teenager recovering at home.

Ralph Yarl is home and recovering! How the bullet in his head did not cause more extensive damage is truly a miracle. To God be the glory! wrote Mr Merritt.

Ringing a doorbell is not a crime

The shooting  which marks the latest in a constantly-growing number of shootings of Black people in America  sparked protests in the city demanding justice for Ralph and questioning the treatment of the shooter.

Hundreds of residents first took to the streets of Kansas City on Sunday to march through the Northlands area where the teenager was shot.

Many carried placards reading Black Lives Matter, Ringing a doorbell is not a crime and Justice for Ralph, reported KSHB.

A pregnant family friend of Ralph Yarls parents told The Kansas City Star that she fears for her unborn child.

How do you protect a Black kid? said Patience Gaye.

What are we supposed to do now? We left our countries because we dont want to be killed. Thats why we left. They came to America for a better life. How is this a better life?

On Tuesday, over a thousand students at Ralphs school Staley High School staged a walkout  or unity walk  in solidarity with their classmate.

They were joined by school staff, civil rights leaders and politicians in a huge rally in downtown Kansas City where they chanted Justice for Ralph and We love you Ralph.

I was out here to support my friend Ralph through this time he is going through today, one of the boys friends told KSHB.

The student said he wasnt surprised by the number of people who had come out to support Ralph because everyone is willing to support a friend at our school.

GoFundMe donations

A GoFundMe launched to support the Black teenager has soared past $3.35m in donations.

Donations have been flooding in on a GoFundMe campaign, set up to help pay for the boys recovery.

As of around 9am ET Thursday  just three days after its launch  a staggering $3.35m had been raised.

Among the donors was comedian Ellyn Daniels who gave $15,000, Madonnas manager Guy Oseary who gave $5,000 and TV star Julianne Hough, who donated $1,000.

On the fundraising page, Ralphs aunt described the teenager as a fantastic kid who had dreams of doing to Texas A&M University to major in chemical Engineering.

At school, he is a member of the Technology Student Association and Science Olympia Team. Jazz and competition band. He is a section leader in the marching band; a scholar and one of the top base clarinet players in Missouri. He recently earned Missouri All-State Band recognition with an honorable mention. He plays multiple instruments in the metropolitan youth orchestra. He is a 2022 Missouri scholar academy alumni. Ralph can often be found with a musical instrument. He loves them all, the page reads.

Last summer, Ralph attended Missouri Scholars Academy, where he got a full college life experience. His goal is to attend Texas A&M to major in chemical Engineering.

Ralph Yarl GoFundMe tops $3m (GoFundMe)

When asked how he plans to get into this university, he said, Well, if they have a scholarship for music or academics, I know I can get it. Ralphs teacher and friends describe him as  a kind soul, quiet, friendly, well-mannered, always willing to help, super smart, and a musical genius. Ralph was looking forward to graduating high school and finally getting the opportunity to visit West Africa before starting college.

Life looks a lot different right now. Even though he is doing well physically, he has a long road ahead mentally and emotionally. The trauma that he has to endure and survive is unimaginable. He is our miracle. We have heard these types of stories many times, and unfortunately, most black boys are not alive to get another chance.

Ralph deserves to have the future that he has dreams about. He deserves to be the light that shows the world that LOVE wins and that humanity is still Good. However, he will need a lot of help to get there. Funds from this account will be used for his medical bills and therapy. Any additional funds will be use for college expenses at Texas A&M, a trip to West Africa, and other expenses.

In an update on Tuesday, the family thanked people for their support and donations for the teenager and confirmed that he is now recovering from his injuries at home.

Ralph is currently at home with the family. He can ambulate and communicate. A true miracle considering what he survived.Each day is different. He has a long road ahead, the GoFundMe read.

However, we are very thankful that he is still here with us. Ive been taking the time to read the emails and comments to Ralph. It warms our hearts to see him smile at all the kind words. Thank you so much for loving Ralph.

On Monday it was announced that Ralph had been discharged from hospital.

Celebrities share outrage

Several celebrities have also spoken out to condemn the shooting, with actor Halle Berry  writing before charges were announced  urging her Twitter followers to contact the local prosecutor to bring charges against the homeowner.

His name is #RalphYarl and Im sick and tired of this feelingmy heart completely broke when I learned this precious 16-year-old, who accidentally rang the door of the wrong address in an attempt to pick up his siblings, was shot in the head by a man who didnt want him on his property. This innocent child is now fighting for his life, she wrote.

This could be your child. This should NOT happen. Please do something today! Join me and please contact Prosecutor Zachary Thompson and demand an immediate arrest and bring the appropriate charges: Building: James S. Rooney Justice Center Address: 11 South Water Street, Liberty, Missouri 64068 Phone: 816-736-8300 Fax: 816-736- 8301 Email: prosecutor@claycopa.com

Fellow Black actor Viola Davis also took to Instagram to demand action.

ALL HANDS ON DECK!! she wrote, directing people to the posts of civil rights attorneys Ben Crump and Lee Merritt.

Actor Gwyneth Paltrow wrote on Instagram: #RalphYarl accidentally rang the doorbell of the wrong house in KCMO. He was trying to pick his younger siblings. The white owner of the hours shot this Black child in the head. He shot him again as Ralph bled out. The shooter is free. No charges. This is America.

Kim Kardashian also used her platform to condemn the shooting, sharing an infographic of what happened to the teenage boy.

Supermodel Naomi Campbell, actor Amy Schumer, model and TV personality Chrissy Teigen and actor Justin Timberlake also shared social media posts about the case as they all rallied behind the family of the 16-year-old boy now fighting his injuries.

Joe Biden welcomes victim to White House

President Joe Biden has also spoken with the teenager and his family and invited them to the White House.

The president called the 16-year-old on Monday afternoon after Ralph had returned home from hospital.

On Tuesday, he shared a photo of himself on the phone to the teenager, writing: Last night, I had a chance to call Ralph Yarl and his family. No parent should have to worry that their kid will be shot after ringing the wrong doorbell. Weve got to keep up the fight against gun violence. And Ralph, well see you in the Oval once you feel better.

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre also condemned the shooting in a press conference on Tuesday, calling it devastating and the latest in an epidemic of gun violence in America.

It feels like every week, at least once a week, I come to the podium and I talk about this gun violence epidemic that were seeing across the country, and how our communities and families across America, yet again, have been devastated by tragic acts of gun violence, she said.

And it is not just devastating for me, Im sure its devastating for all of you and your families. Its devastating for this president, its devastating for our administration ... to have to continue to do that over and over again.

Neighbours speak out

Neighbours have now spoken out about the shooting including one man  James Lynch, 42  who said he ran to the boys aid.

Mr Lynch, who lives on Northeast 115 Street, told NBC News that he heard loud screams and someone shouting help, help, Ive been shot!at around 10pm on Thursday night and went to see what the commotion was.

At first, he said he thought Ralph was dead and noticed what looked like a hole in his head near his eye socket.

I thought he was dead, he said.

No one deserves to lay there like that. He hasnt even begun to live his life yet. He didnt deserve to get shot.

He said he told the teen Im going to grab your hand really tight and then launched into his Eagle Scout training, keeping Ralph awake until EMTs arrived.

I didnt do anything but hold a kids hand so he wouldnt feel alone, Mr Lynch said.

He had just gotten shot twice; he had a hole in the side of his head.

He added: That kid is tougher than I am.
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Hollywood actors and celebrities including Gwyneth Paltrow and Kim Kardashian have spoken out to demand justice for a Black teenager who was shot in the head by a white homeowner in Kansas City.

Ralph Yarl, a 16-year-old high school junior, was shot twice last Thursday when he accidentally went to the wrong house to pick up his younger twin brothers.

The teenager spent days in hospital while the white homeowner  84-year-old Andrew Lester  is still walking free.

Mr Lester was finally charged on Monday afternoon with two felonies: assault in the first degree, which carries a punishment of 10 to 30 years or life imprisonment, and armed criminal action, which carries a punishment of 3 to 15 years.

However, more than 20 hours passed before Mr Lester was taken into custody.

He surrendered to authorities on Tuesday before being released again less than two hours later after posting $200,000 bond. He is now due to appear in court on Wednesday.

Protesters have been demanding justice for Ralph and a growing chorus of celebrities are weighing in on the case, voicing outrage over the shooting and the treatment of his accused attacker.

Actor Gwyneth Paltrow wrote on Instagram: #RalphYarl accidentally rang the doorbell of the wrong house in KCMO. He was trying to pick his younger siblings. The white owner of the hours shot this Black child in the head. He shot him again as Ralph bled out. The shooter is free. No charges. This is America.

Kim Kardashian also used her platform to condemn the shooting, sharing an infographic of what happened to the teenage boy.

Halle Berry posted Ralphs image on Twitter and urged her Twitter followers to contact the local prosecutor to urge him to bring charges against the homeowner.

His name is #RalphYarl and Im sick and tired of this feelingmy heart completely broke when I learned this precious 16-year-old, who accidentally rang the door of the wrong address in an attempt to pick up his siblings, was shot in the head by a man who didnt want him on his property. This innocent child is now fighting for his life, she wrote.

This could be your child. This should NOT happen. Please do something today! Join me and please contact Prosecutor Zachary Thompson and demand an immediate arrest and bring the appropriate charges: Building: James S. Rooney Justice Center Address: 11 South Water Street, Liberty, Missouri 64068 Phone: 816-736-8300 Fax: 816-736- 8301 Email: prosecutor@claycopa.com

Fellow Black actor Viola Davis also took to Instagram to demand action.

ALL HANDS ON DECK!! she wrote, directing people to the posts of civil rights attorneys Ben Crump and Lee Merritt.

Actor Kerry Washington wrote on Twitter: Instead of waiting around for #LoveIsBlindmake a phone call. For #RalphYarl. Demand that Prosecutor Zachary Thompson make an arrest and bring the appropriate charges. 816-736-8300.

Supermodel Naomi Campbell, actor Amy Schumer, model and TV personality Chrissy Teigen and actor Justin Timberlake also shared social media posts about the case as they all rallied behind the family of the 16-year-old boy now fighting his injuries.

A GoFundMe launched to help pay for the boys medical bills had topped $3.2m by Wednesday morning.

Kansas City Police said that Ralph had gone to collect his siblings from a friends house on 115th Terrace in Kansas City, Missouri, on the evening of 13 April.

Police said that the teenager got muddled up with the address and accidentally went to a home on 115th Street by mistake.

There, Ralph allegedly rang the doorbell and the homeowner opened fire on him through a glass screen door using a .32 caliber revolver.

Prosecutors said that there is no indication Ralph and the homeowner exchanged any words with each other before the shooting unfolded and there is no footage of the encounter.

Ben Crump and Lee Merritt, the prominent civil rights attorneys now representing the victim and his family, said that the aspiring Texas A&M University student was shot twice  once in the head and once in the arm.

According to a probable cause statement, Mr Lester told police he was in bed when he heard the doorbell ring and so he grabbed a handgun.

When he saw Ralph, he claimed he was scared to death at the boys size and feared he was unable to defend himself given his elderly age.

He claimed he thought the boy was trying to break in and so shot twice through his exterior glass door, the documents state.

However, Ralph told police from his bed at Childrens Mercy Hospital that he did not pull the door  but only pressed the doorbell.

He said he was waiting at the door when the man opened it and immediately shot him.

He fell to the ground and was shot a second time, he said.

After being shot, he said he heard the shooter warn him: Dont come around here.

In the GoFundMe, Ralphs family wrote: The man in the home opened the door, looked my nephew in the eye, and shot him in the head. My nephew fell to the ground, and the man shot him again.

Following the shooting, Ralph managed to stumble away to some other homes in the neighbourhood to get help.

Unfortunately, he had to run to 3 different homes before someone finally agreed to help him after he was told to lie on the ground with his hands up, the family said.

He was rushed to hospital where the family said he was listed in critical condition.

Two days later, Ralph was released from hospital and is now recovering from his injuries at home.

Ralph Yarl (pictured) was shot twice on 13 April (Ben Crump Law via AP)

The suspect was initially taken into custody on Thursday and placed on a 24-hour hold.

However, under Missouri state law, a person can only be held for 24 hours on suspicion of a felony before officials must either charge or release them. Mr Lester was released pending further investigation. The charges were announced later by Clay County prosecutor Zachary Thompson in a press conference on Monday afternoon.

Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves said at a press conference on Sunday that  due to Ralphs injuries  police had been unable to get a formal statement from the victim. This was contradicted by Ralphs attorneys who said that the teenager gave an interview from his hospital bed on Friday.

While the police chief initially said that there was no evidence to date to indicate that the shooting was racially motivated, Mr Thompson said while announcing the charges that prosecutors did believe there was a racial element.

The shooting  which marks the latest in a growing number of shootings of Black people in America  has been branded a hate crime and has sparked protests in the city demanding justice.

Hundreds of residents took to the streets of Kansas City on Sunday to march through the Northlands area where the teenager was shot.

Many carried placards reading Black Lives Matter, Ringing a doorbell is not a crime and Justice for Ralph, reported KSHB.

A pregnant family friend of Ralph Yarls parents told The Kansas City Star that she fears for her unborn child.

How do you protect a Black kid? said Patience Gaye.

Ralph Yarl lies in hospital bed after being shot twice (Shaun King)

What are we supposed to do now? We left our countries because we dont want to be killed. Thats why we left. They came to America for a better life. How is this a better life?

A huge rally also took place on Tuesday in Kansas City in support of the Black teen.

Speaking before the charges were announced, Mr Crump and Mr Merritt  who have previously represented the families of Ahmaud Arbery and George Floyd  condemned the release of the armed and dangerous suspect in a joint statement after taking the case.

In a joint statement, the attorneys said: There can be no excuse for the release of this armed and dangerous suspect after admitting to shooting an unarmed, non-threatening and defenseless teenager that rang his doorbell.

We demand swift action from Clay County prosecutors and law enforcement to identify, arrest and prosecute to the full extent of the law the man responsible for this horrendous and unjustifiable shooting.

A woman who identified herself as Ralphs aunt described 16-year-old Ralph as a fantastic kid in the GoFundMe campaign.

At school, he is a member of the Technology Student Association and Science Olympia Team. Jazz and competition band. He is a section leader in the marching band; a scholar and one of the top base clarinet players in Missouri. He recently earned Missouri All-State Band recognition with an honorable mention. He plays multiple instruments in the metropolitan youth orchestra. He is a 2022 Missouri scholar academy alumni. Ralph can often be found with a musical instrument. He loves them all, it reads.

Last summer, Ralph attended Missouri Scholars Academy, where he got a full college life experience. His goal is to attend Texas A&M to major in chemical Engineering.

When asked how he plans to get into this university, he said, Well, if they have a scholarship for music or academics, I know I can get it. Ralphs teacher and friends describe him as  a kind soul, quiet, friendly, well-mannered, always willing to help, super smart, and a musical genius. Ralph was looking forward to graduating high school and finally getting the opportunity to visit West Africa before starting college. Life looks a lot different right now.
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A New York homeowner has shot and killed a woman who went to the wrong house with a group of friends  in eerily similar circumstances to the shooting of Black teenager Ralph Yarl.

Kaylin Gillis, 20, was travelling in a car with three friends when they made a wrong turn looking for a friends house in Hebron, upstate New York, on Saturday night.

The group accidentally drove into the driveway of homeowner Kevin Monahan, 65, who came out onto his porch and fired two shots, according to Washington County Sheriff Jeffrey Murphy.

Gillis was struck by one of the bullets.

This is a very sad case of some young adults who were looking for a friends house and ended up at this mans house who decided to come out with a firearm and discharge it, said Sheriff Murphy at a press conference on Monday.

Due to the remote area where the shooting took place, the group drove to the neighboring town of Salem, northeast of Albany near the Vermont state line, and called 911, said Mr Murphy.

Emergency crews arrived and performed CPR on Gillis but couldnt save her and she was pronunced dead.

When officers arrived at Mr Monahans house to investigate the shooting, he refused to come out, said the sheriff.

Authorities spoke with him through a 911 dispatcher and in person for about an hour before he was taken into custody, according to the sheriff.

Mr Monahan, 65, was arrested and charged with second-degree murder.

He was booked into the Warren County jail. It wasnt clear whether he had an attorney who could speak on his behalf.

Mr Murphy said that Gillis, who lived in Schuylerville, "was an innocent young girl who was out with friends looking for another friends house".

He said there was "no reason for Mr Monahan to feel threatened".

Kaylin Gillis was shot and killed in upstate New York (GoFundMe)

The shooting happened just days after 16-year-old Ralph Yarl was shot and wounded in Kansas City, Missouri, after going to the wrong house to pick up his younger brothers.

Kansas City Police said that Ralph had gone to collect his siblings from a friends house on 115th Terrace in Kansas City, Missouri, on the evening of 13 April.

Police said that the teenager got muddled up with the address and accidentally went to a home on 115th Street by mistake.

There, Ralph allegedly rang the doorbell and the white homeowner Andrew Lester, 84, opened fire on him through a glass screen door using a .32 caliber revolver.

The aspiring Texas A&M University student was shot twice  once in the head and once in the arm.

According to a probable cause statement, Mr Lester told police he was in bed when he heard the doorbell ring and so he grabbed a handgun.

When he saw Ralph, he claimed he was scared to death at the boys size and feared he was unable to defend himself given his elderly age.

He claimed he thought the boy was trying to break in and so shot twice through his exterior glass door, the documents state.

However, Ralph told police from his bed at Childrens Mercy Hospital that he did not pull the door  but only pressed the doorbell  and there is no evidence to suggest he tried to enter the home.

Ralph Yarl was released from hospital on Sunday to continue his recovery at home (AP)

He said he was waiting at the door when the man opened it and immediately shot him.

He fell to the ground and was shot a second time, he said.

After being shot, he said he heard the shooter warn him: Dont come around here.

Ralph was rushed to hospital where the family said he was listed in critical condition.

He was released from hospital on Sunday to continue his recovery at home.

On Monday, Mr Lester was finally charged with assault in the first degree, which carries a punishment of 10 to 30 years or life imprisonment, and armed criminal action, which carries a punishment of 3 to 15 years, but has not been taken into custody.

Protesters have been demanding justice for Ralph and a growing chorus of celebrities are weighing in on the case, voicing outrage over the shooting and the treatment of his accused attacker.
 Close Idaho police detective, FBI continues to testify in Lori Vallow triple-murder case

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The trial of doomsday cult mom Lori Vallow is underway in Ada County Courthouse in Boise, Idaho, where the mother-of-three is accused of killing her two youngest children and her new husband Chad Daybells first wife.

The 49-year-old is charged with first-degree murder, conspiracy, and grand theft over the deaths of her daughter Tylee Ryan, 16, son Joshua JJ Vallow, 7, and Mr Daybells first wife Tammy, 49.

Tylee and JJ were last seen alive in September 2019. In June 2020, their remains were found buried on the Daybell property. Tammy died one month after their disappearance in October 2019.

The string of mysterious deaths and murders, and the bizarre cult beliefs of those involved, have generated huge interest in the case. Ms Vallow allegedly also conspired to murder her fourth husband Charles Vallow and is charged separately in a case in Arizona.

In court on Tuesday, a video call was played between Ms Vallow and her sister Summer Shiflet in which the latter sobbed and shouted at the defendant about the deaths of her children, saying even if she hadnt killed them she had not cared they were thrown away like garbage.
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Among high-income countries around the world, the United States has for years stood out for one reason: its rate of gun violence.

Over the last decade, among relatively wealthy countries with populations of 10m or more, the rate of gun violence in the US has far surpassed that of any other nation. According to the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, the adjusted firearm homicide rate in the US is 22 times that of the European Union and more than that of Asian countries like Japan and the Republic of Korea.

This year is on track to be no different. According to data from the Gun Violence Archive, there have as of mid-April already been 149 mass shootings in the US  with gun violence claiming lives in every state in the country.

As in a number of other years, including 2022, some of the most visible gun violence in the US this year has taken place at schools. In February, a shooting at Michigan State University in East Lansing, Michigan left three students dead and five other people injured. In late March, a mass shooting at a Christian school in Nashville claimed six lives.

Other gunmen may have been targeting certain ethnic communities: in January in Half Moon Bay, California, a shooting at a dancehall in a predominantly Asian-American area left 11 people dead. Two days later, another mass shooting in nearby Monterey Bay, California killed seven more people.

According to the Gun Violence Archive, shootings have already claimed more than 11,000 lives in total in the US in 2023, with more than 6,000 people using a gun to die by suicide. Another 9,000 people have been injured in a shooting so far this year.

The Gun Violence Archives definition holds that mass shootings include at least four people either injured or killed, not including the shooter.

Despite the prevelance of gun violence this year and in recent years in the US, there has not been a renewed push to tighten the countrys liberal gun laws in Congress since a bipartisan group of legislators introduced and passed a modest array of reforms after the mass shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas last year.

On a state level, a number of states have moved over the last year to remove barriers to purchasing and carrying firearms. Last year, Arkansas, Iowa, Montana, Tennessee, Texas and Utah all passed laws to no longer require people to hold a permit to carry a firearm, while legislators in states like Georgia and Ohio have moved to pass similar laws this year.

A select number of other states have gone in the other direction: voters in Oregon, for example, narrowly approved a ballot measure last year to require permits to purchase a firearm and ban magazines capable of holding more than 10 rounds of ammunition.
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A family of four who vanished months ago has been located, according to the Newton, Illinois, Police Department.

Stephen Lutz, 44; Monica Lutz, 34; as well as their two sons, Nicholas, 9; and Aiden, 11; were last heard from on 10 February.

The family of four from Newton, Illinois, suddenly left their home in the middle of the night with a U-Haul attached to their blue, 2005 Ford F150, according to surveillance footage.

For months, police have been trying to locate the Lutz family as they were thought to be in danger.

But on 17 April, the Newton Illinois Police posted a memo from the Jasper County Daily News indicating the family of four had been located and were safe.

Stephen, Monica, Aiden, and Nicholas have been located in Cochise County in Arizona, the memo read.

Cochise County is approximately 1,500 miles from Newton, Illinois.

With the help of state police and license plate readers, the family was located and a deputy was able to make contact with Ms Lutz and Mr Lutz separately.

The deputy stated that the boys appear healthy and Monica informed him of where to find Stephen. Shortly after the deputy made contact with Stephen, the deputy contacted Chief Britton, the memo reads.

Mr Lutz told the deputy that they have relocated with no plans of returning to Newton.

The Jasper County Sheriffs Office confirmed to The Independent that the family has been found.

The circumstances surrounding the familys sudden disappearance were alarming to family and friends as well as law enforcement.

Prior to their sudden departure, Mr Lutz was issued a no-contact order and no-entry order after facing domestic battery charges, according to Newton Police.

Mr Lutz appeared in court via Zoom in January to face the charges and was released on bond under the condition of no contact and no entry. He had not been charged at the time.

Police said there were previous reports of domestic violence in the home, though reiterated that Mr Lutz is innocent until proven guilty.

Mr Lutzs adult daughter, Brittany Lutz, said she was very concerned for her younger brothers safety in a Facebook post.

Brittany told WCIA that she exchanged text messages with her younger half-brother, Aiden, a few days before they disappeared.

Aiden said the family was taking a vacation but wasnt sure where they were going. She hadnt heard from him since 10 February.

Brittany also exchanged a message with her father on 14 February and offered to take her half-brothers and just get them back to a normal life.

Mr Lutz responded by saying they have a normal life and he was no longer allowed to be around them. In a lengthy text message, he informed Brittany there was nothing wrong with our house or the way we raise our children.

Brittany had not heard from him since and all of the familys cell phones were disconnected shortly thereafter.

Chief Britton said they are relieved to have made contact with the family and are thankful that they are safe.
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A GoFundMe campaign launched to support a Black teenager who was shot in the head by a white homeowner when he accidentally went to the wrong address has soared past $3.2m in donations.

Ralph Yarl, a 16-year-old high school junior, was shot twice last Thursday when he went to pick up his younger twin brothers from a friends house on 13 April.

Kansas City Police said that Ralph had gone to collect his siblings from a friends house on 115th Terrace in Kansas City, Missouri, but got muddled up with the address and accidentally went to a home on 115th Street by mistake.

There, Ralph allegedly rang the doorbell and the homeowner 84-year-old Andrew Lester opened fire on him, shooting him twice.

The Black teenager was rushed to hospital in critical condition while the white homeowner was initially detained  before being released without charge.

Mr Lester was finally charged on Monday afternoon with two felonies: assault in the first degree, which carries a punishment of 10 to 30 years or life imprisonment, and armed criminal action, which carries a punishment of 3 to 15 years.

However, more than 20 hours passed before Mr Lester was taken into custody.

He surrendered to authorities on Tuesday before being released again less than two hours later after posting $200,000 bond. He is now due to appear in court on Wednesday.

Over the weekend, protesters, the victims family and a growing number of celebrities demanded justice for the 16-year-old and for the shooter to be criminally charged.

Donations have been flooding in on a GoFundMe campaign, set up to help pay for the boys recovery.

Police booking photo of Andrew Lester, charged with shooting Ralph Yarl (Kansas City Police)

As of around 9am ET on Tuesday  just two days after its launch  a staggering $3.2m had been raised.

On the campaign page, a woman who identified herself as Ralphs aunt described the teenager as a fantastic kid who had dreams of doing to Texas A&M University to major in chemical Engineering.

At school, he is a member of the Technology Student Association and Science Olympia Team. Jazz and competition band. He is a section leader in the marching band; a scholar and one of the top base clarinet players in Missouri. He recently earned Missouri All-State Band recognition with an honorable mention. He plays multiple instruments in the metropolitan youth orchestra. He is a 2022 Missouri scholar academy alumni. Ralph can often be found with a musical instrument. He loves them all, the page reads.

Last summer, Ralph attended Missouri Scholars Academy, where he got a full college life experience. His goal is to attend Texas A&M to major in chemical Engineering.

When asked how he plans to get into this university, he said, Well, if they have a scholarship for music or academics, I know I can get it. Ralphs teacher and friends describe him as  a kind soul, quiet, friendly, well-mannered, always willing to help, super smart, and a musical genius. Ralph was looking forward to graduating high school and finally getting the opportunity to visit West Africa before starting college.

Life looks a lot different right now. Even though he is doing well physically, he has a long road ahead mentally and emotionally. The trauma that he has to endure and survive is unimaginable. He is our miracle. We have heard these types of stories many times, and unfortunately, most black boys are not alive to get another chance.

Ralph Yarl GoFundMe tops $3.2m (GoFundMe)

Ralph deserves to have the future that he has dreams about. He deserves to be the light that shows the world that LOVE wins and that humanity is still Good. However, he will need a lot of help to get there. Funds from this account will be used for his medical bills and therapy. Any additional funds will be use for college expenses at Texas A&M, a trip to West Africa, and other expenses.

The family described how Ralph had been on his way to pick up his twin younger brothers from their friends house a few blocks from his own home.

He didnt have his phone. He mistakenly went to the wrong house, one block away from the house where his siblings were. He pulled into the driveway and rang the doorbell, the page read.

The man in the home opened the door, looked my nephew in the eye, and shot him in the head. My nephew fell to the ground, and the man shot him again.

Following the shooting, Ralph managed to stumble away to some other homes in the neighbourhood to get help, according to his family.

Unfortunately, he had to run to 3 different homes before someone finally agreed to help him after he was told to lie on the ground with his hands up, the family said.

In an update on Tuesday, the family thanked people for their support and donations for the teenager and confirmed that he is now recovering from his injuries at home.

Ralph is currently at home with the family. He can ambulate and communicate. A true miracle considering what he survived.Each day is different. He has a long road ahead, the GoFundMe read.

However, we are very thankful that he is still here with us. Ive been taking the time to read the emails and comments to Ralph. It warms our hearts to see him smile at all the kind words. Thank you so much for loving Ralph.

The suspect was initially taken into custody on Thursday and placed on a 24-hour hold.

However, under Missouri state law, a person can only be held for 24 hours on suspicion of a felony before officials must either charge or release them. The suspect was released pending further investigation.

Speaking before the announcement of the charges against Mr Lester, Mr Crump and Mr Merritt  who have previously represented the families of Ahmaud Arbery and George Floyd  condemned the release of the armed and dangerous suspect in a joint statement after taking the case.

In a joint statement, the attorneys said: There can be no excuse for the release of this armed and dangerous suspect after admitting to shooting an unarmed, non-threatening and defenseless teenager that rang his doorbell.

Ralph Yarl lies in hospital bed as he recovers from shooting (Shaun King)

We demand swift action from Clay County prosecutors and law enforcement to identify, arrest and prosecute to the full extent of the law the man responsible for this horrendous and unjustifiable shooting.

After charges were brought on Monday, Mr Crump said in a statement: While this is certainly a step in the right direction, we will continue to fight for Ralph while he works towards a full recovery.

While the police chief initially said that there was no evidence to date to indicate that the shooting was racially motivated, Clay County prosecutor Zachary Thompson confirmed in a press conference on Monday afternoon that there was a racial component to the case, although he would not give details on what had caused him to come to that conclusion.

The shooting  which marks the latest in a growing number of shootings of Black people in America  has sparked protests with hundreds marching through the area where the teenager was shot during a rally on Sunday.

Many carried placards reading Black Lives Matter, Ringing a doorbell is not a crime and Justice for Ralph, reported KSHB.
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Ralph Yarls mother has spoken out to reveal that the Black teenager cant stop crying as he recovers from his injuries after being shot in the head by an 84-year-old white homeowner.

Cleo Nagbe told CBS Mornings Gayle King on Tuesday that the 16-year-old is now left replaying Thursdays attack over and over again.

You can see that he is just replaying the situation over and over again. And that just doesnt stop my tears either, because when you see your kid just sits there and constantly he just  tears are just rolling from both sides of his eyes, theres nothing you can say to him, she said.

She said that her son is able to communicate when he feels like it but he mostly just sits there and stares and the buckets of tears just rolls down his eyes.

Ms Nagbe revealed that the bullet was lodged in Ralphs head for a staggering 12 hours after Andrew Lester, 84, shot him twice through the glass screen door of his home in Kansas City, Missouri.

Ralph was shot on the top of his left eye  his frontal lobe and the top of his right arm. He had the bullet up here [in his head] for about 12 hours before it was taken out, so that injury is extensive, she said.

She added: The residual effect of that injury is going to stay with him for quite a while. Hes home but I want to remind everybody that Ralph is home because he is surrounded by a team of medical professionals.

Ms Nagbe is a nurse of 20 years and aunt is a physical therapist, she said, so lets put this into perspective.

The teenager spent four days in hospital while the white homeowner walked free.

Mr Lester was finally charged on Monday afternoon with two felonies: assault in the first degree, which carries a punishment of 10 to 30 years or life imprisonment, and armed criminal action, which carries a punishment of 3 to 15 years.

However, more than 20 hours passed before Mr Lester was taken into custody. He surrendered to authorities on Tuesday before being released again less than two hours later after posting $200,000 bond.

Protesters have been demanding justice for Ralph and a growing chorus of celebrities are weighing in on the case, voicing outrage over the shooting and the treatment of his accused attacker.

Ms Nagbe told CBS that Ralphs younger twin brothers were supposed to go to a sleepover on the night of 13 April but that she was not keen on them staying over all night and wanted them home by 10pm.

Ralph Yarls mother Cleo Nagbe and attorney Lee Merritt speak out (CBS Mornings)

At around 9.45pm she asked Ralph to go and pick them up.

Being the boy that he is, he said yes and went to collect them in his car.

He didnt take his phone and got muddled up with the address.

Ralph ended up outside a home on 115th Street by mistake instead of the friends house on 115th Terrace in Kansas City, Missouri, on the evening of 13 April.

He went and rang the doorbell. And he was supposed to stay outside, and his brothers were supposed to run outside, get in the car and they come home, said Ms Nagbe.

While he was standing there, his brothers didnt run outside, but he got a couple of bullets in his body instead of a couple of twins coming up, out, and giving him a hug.

Ralph allegedly rang the doorbell and the homeowner opened fire on him through a glass screen door using a .32 caliber revolver.

The aspiring Texas A&M University student was shot twice  once in the head and once in the arm.

Prosecutors said that there is no indication Ralph and the homeowner exchanged any words with each other before the shooting unfolded and there is no footage of the encounter.

According to a probable cause statement, Mr Lester told police he was in bed when he heard the doorbell ring and so he grabbed a handgun.

When he saw Ralph, he claimed he was scared to death at the boys size and feared he was unable to defend himself given his elderly age.

He claimed he thought the boy was trying to break in and so shot twice through his exterior glass door, the documents state.

However, Ralph told police from his bed at Childrens Mercy Hospital that he only pressed the doorbell and did not try to enter the home.

He said he was waiting at the door when the man opened it and immediately shot him. He fell to the ground and was shot a second time, he said.

After being shot, he said he heard the shooter warn him: Dont come around here.

Prosecutors also said that the investigation also found no evidence to suggest Ralph was trying to enter the property.

The suspect was initially taken into custody on Thursday and placed on a 24-hour hold.

However, under Missouri state law, a person can only be held for 24 hours on suspicion of a felony before officials must either charge or release them. Mr Lester was released after just two hours pending further investigation. The charges were announced later by Clay County prosecutor Zachary Thompson in a press conference on Monday afternoon.

Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves said at a press conference on Sunday that  due to Ralphs injuries  police had been unable to get a formal statement from the victim. This was also contradicted by Ralphs attorneys who said that the teenager gave an interview from his hospital bed on Friday.

Ralph Yarl had gone to pick up his younger brothers when he got the wrong house (AP)

While the police chief initially said that there was no evidence to date to indicate that the shooting was racially motivated, Prosecutor Zachary Thompson said while announcing the charges that officials now believe there was a racial element.

Civil rights attorney Lee Merritt, who is representing Ralph and his family, said that they are meeting with the prosecutor on Tuesday and he hopes to learn what racial element investigators have found.

He told CBS Mornings that the suspects claim that he felt threatened by a Black boy ringing his doorbell sounds awfully familiar.

Being Black has been seen as a threat often in this country. It is unjustifiable for him to use deadly force against this so-called threat. Again, Blackness is not a threat, he said.

He added that the investigation itself shows bias in the treatment of the Black teen and the white shooter.

We saw law enforcement respond by essentially criminalising the boy, he said of Mr Lesters lack of arrest.

[Mr Lester] went home and slept in his bed that night, he said.

While Mr Merritt said they are happy that two felony charges have been brought, he has questions as to why Mr Lester has not been charged with attempted murder.

He added that, while Mr Lesters age may be a factor in the case, the current and former president of the United States is about that age.

He made a conscious decision to shoot a 16-year-old boy, he said.

The shooting  which marks the latest in a growing number of shootings of Black people in America  has sparked protests in the city demanding justice and a GoFundMe to support the teen has now topped $2.8m.

A woman who identified herself as Ralphs aunt described 16-year-old Ralph as a fantastic kid in the GoFundMe campaign.

At school, he is a member of the Technology Student Association and Science Olympia Team. Jazz and competition band. He is a section leader in the marching band; a scholar and one of the top base clarinet players in Missouri. He recently earned Missouri All-State Band recognition with an honorable mention. He plays multiple instruments in the metropolitan youth orchestra. He is a 2022 Missouri scholar academy alumni. Ralph can often be found with a musical instrument. He loves them all, it reads.

Last summer, Ralph attended Missouri Scholars Academy, where he got a full college life experience. His goal is to attend Texas A&M to major in chemical Engineering.

When asked how he plans to get into this university, he said, Well, if they have a scholarship for music or academics, I know I can get it. Ralphs teacher and friends describe him as  a kind soul, quiet, friendly, well-mannered, always willing to help, super smart, and a musical genius. Ralph was looking forward to graduating high school and finally getting the opportunity to visit West Africa before starting college. Life looks a lot different right now.
 Close Ralph Yarl: Prosecutors charge Kansas City homeowner for shooting teen

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The family of suspected shooter Andrew Lester have said they are disgusted by the 84-year-olds shooting of Black teenager Ralph Yarl.

Mr Lesters grandson Klint Ludwig told CNN that myself and my family stand with Ralph Yarl and seeking justice.

This is a horrible tragedy, it never should have happened, he said.

Mr Ludwig also revealed details about his grandfathers racist comments and interest in QAnon-level conspiracy theories prior to the 13 April shooting.

The 84-year-old is accused of shooting Ralph, 16, twice through the glass screen door of his home in Kansas City, Missouri, when the Black teenager accidentally called at the wrong home to pick up his brothers.

Ralphs recovery is still ongoing, with attorney Lee Merritt sharing a photo of him back at home following his release from hospital.

Meanwhile, Mr Lester appeared in court for the first time on Wednesday where he pleaded not guilty to two felonies.

The shooting has led to protests and an outpouring of support for Ralph from celebrities and donors to a GoFundMe campaign, as the incident casts a renewed spotlight on Americas stand your ground laws and whether they help to fuel random shootings and racism.
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Black teenager Ralph Yarl had a bullet lodged in his head for a staggering 12 hours after an 84-year-old white homeowner shot him in the head when he got the wrong address and rang his doorbell, it has been revealed.

The 16-year-olds mother Cleo Nagbe spoke out to CBS Mornings Gayle King on Tuesday about the horror injuries that her son suffered in the shooting that has sparked protests and raised questions about racial equality in the justice system.

Ralph was shot on the top of his left eye  his frontal lobe and the top of his right arm, she said.

He had the bullet up here [in his head] for about 12 hours before it was taken out, so that injury is extensive.

Ms Nagbe said that the extensive injuries mean that he has a long road ahead to recovery.

The residual effect of that injury is going to stay with him for quite a while, she said.

The teenager, a high school scholar, is now back at home surrounded by his family as he continues with his recovery from Thursdays shooting in Kansas City, Missouri.

Ms Nagbe told CBS that Ralphs younger twin brothers were supposed to go to a sleepover on the night of 13 April but that she was not keen on them staying over all night and wanted them home by 10pm.

At around 9.45pm she asked Ralph to go and pick them up.

Being the boy that he is, he said yes and went to collect them in his car.

He didnt take his phone and got muddled up with the address.

Ralph ended up outside a home on 115th Street by mistake instead of the friends house on 115th Terrace in Kansas City, Missouri, on the evening of 13 April.

He went and rang the doorbell. And he was supposed to stay outside, and his brothers were supposed to run outside, get in the car and they come home, said Ms Nagbe.

While he was standing there, his brothers didnt run outside, but he got a couple of bullets in his body instead of a couple of twins coming up, out, and giving him a hug.

Ralph Yarl was shot twice on Thursday (AP)

Ralph allegedly rang the doorbell and the homeowner  84-year-old Andrew Lester  opened fire on him through a glass screen door using a .32 caliber revolver.

The aspiring Texas A&M University student was shot twice  once in the head and once in the arm.

Prosecutors said that there is no indication Ralph and the homeowner exchanged any words with each other before the shooting unfolded and there is no footage of the encounter.

According to a probable cause statement, Mr Lester told police he was in bed when he heard the doorbell ring and so he grabbed a handgun.

When he saw Ralph, he claimed he was scared to death at the boys size and feared he was unable to defend himself given his elderly age.

He claimed he thought the boy was trying to break in and so shot twice through his exterior glass door, the documents state.

However, Ralph told police from his bed at Childrens Mercy Hospital that he only pressed the doorbell and did not try to enter the home.

He said he was waiting at the door when the man opened it and immediately shot him. He fell to the ground and was shot a second time, he said.

After being shot, he said he heard the shooter warn him: Dont come around here.

Prosecutors also said that the investigation also found no evidence to suggest Ralph was trying to enter the property.

Ralph was rushed to hospital in critical condition.

He was released from hospital on Saturday to continue his recovery at home.

Ms Nagbe said that his return home needs to be put [...] into perspective as it was possible due to many family members being medical professionals.

Ralph Yarls mother and attorney Lee Merritt speak out (CBS Mornings)

Hes home but I want to remind everybody that Ralph is home because he is surrounded by a team of medical professionals, she said.

Now, her son is now left replaying Thursdays attack over and over again, she said,

You can see that he is just replaying the situation over and over again. And that just doesnt stop my tears either, because when you see your kid just sits there and constantly he just  tears are just rolling from both sides of his eyes, theres nothing you can say to him, she said.

She said that her son is able to communicate when he feels like it but he mostly just sits there and stares and the buckets of tears just rolls down his eyes.

While the teenager spent four days in hospital, the white homeowner walked free.

Mr Lester was finally charged on Monday afternoon with two felonies: assault in the first degree, which carries a punishment of 10 to 30 years or life imprisonment, and armed criminal action, which carries a punishment of 3 to 15 years.

However, more than 20 hours passed before Mr Lester was taken into custody after surrendering at a Clay County detention centre.

Mr Lester was initially taken into custody on Thursday and placed on a 24-hour hold.

However, under Missouri state law, a person can only be held for 24 hours on suspicion of a felony before officials must either charge or release them. Mr Lester was released after just two hours pending further investigation. The charges were announced later by Clay County prosecutor Zachary Thompson in a press conference on Monday afternoon.

Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves said at a press conference on Sunday that  due to Ralphs injuries  police had been unable to get a formal statement from the victim. This was also contradicted by Ralphs attorneys who said that the teenager gave an interview from his hospital bed on Friday.

While the police chief initially said that there was no evidence to date to indicate that the shooting was racially motivated, Prosecutor Zachary Thompson said while announcing the charges that officials now believe there was a racial element.

Civil rights attorney Lee Merritt, who is representing Ralph and his family, said that they are meeting with the prosecutor on Tuesday and he hopes to learn what racial element investigators have found.

He told CBS Mornings that the suspects claim that he felt threatened by a Black boy ringing his doorbell sounds awfully familiar.

Being Black has been seen as a threat often in this country. It is unjustifiable for him to use deadly force against this so-called threat. Again, Blackness is not a threat, he said.

He added that the investigation itself shows bias in the treatment of the Black teen and the white shooter.

We saw law enforcement respond by essentially criminalising the boy, he said of Mr Lesters lack of arrest.

[Mr Lester] went home and slept in his bed that night, he said.

Police booking photo of Andrew Lester, charged with shooting Ralph Yarl (Kansas City Police)

While Mr Merritt said they are happy that two felony charges have been brought, he has questions as to why Mr Lester has not been charged with attempted murder.

He added that, while Mr Lesters age may be a factor in the case, the current and former president of the United States is about that age.

He made a conscious decision to shoot a 16-year-old boy, he said.

The shooting  which marks the latest in a growing number of shootings of Black people in America  has sparked protests in the city demanding justice and a GoFundMe to support the teen has now topped $2.7m.

A woman who identified herself as Ralphs aunt described 16-year-old Ralph as a fantastic kid in the GoFundMe campaign.

At school, he is a member of the Technology Student Association and Science Olympia Team. Jazz and competition band. He is a section leader in the marching band; a scholar and one of the top base clarinet players in Missouri. He recently earned Missouri All-State Band recognition with an honorable mention. He plays multiple instruments in the metropolitan youth orchestra. He is a 2022 Missouri scholar academy alumni. Ralph can often be found with a musical instrument. He loves them all, it reads.

Last summer, Ralph attended Missouri Scholars Academy, where he got a full college life experience. His goal is to attend Texas A&M to major in chemical Engineering.

When asked how he plans to get into this university, he said, Well, if they have a scholarship for music or academics, I know I can get it. Ralphs teacher and friends describe him as  a kind soul, quiet, friendly, well-mannered, always willing to help, super smart, and a musical genius. Ralph was looking forward to graduating high school and finally getting the opportunity to visit West Africa before starting college. Life looks a lot different right now.
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Maine State Police believe gunfire on Interstate 295 is linked to four bodies that were discovered in another town.

On Tuesday, police responded to reports that several vehicles on Interstate 295 in Yarmouth, had been hit by gunfire, according to a report from WMTW.

A large police presence, including officers armed with rifles, was spotted at the scene of the incident.

One person was seriously injured in the shooting, according to police.

Three people were injured in the highway shooting, according to the Associated Press.

Earlier in the day police were called to a home in Bowdoin, where they found four people dead inside. They believe the highway shooting and the four dead are connected.

Witnesses said they saw one individual placed in handcuffs at the scene of the highway shooting. Police have detained one person in relation to the shooting. It is unclear if they are considering that individual a suspect.

At least one vehicle at the scene of the highway shooting had several bullet holes through its windshield.

Reporters on scene noted that approximately a dozen officers were equipped in tactical gear and were searching a nearby forest.

Police in Yarmouth have advised residents to shelter in place.

Maine's Department of Transportation advised motorists just after 11am that the southbound side of I-295 was closed as a result of the incident.
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A coterie of high-profile Fox News witnesses are expected to take the stand during the high-stakes Dominion Voting Machines defamation trial.

But the likes of Sean Hannity, Tucker Carlson and Rupert Murdoch may be shielded from public view when entering the Delaware Superior Court as a tent has been erected leading to a back entrance.

NewsNations Brian Entin snapped a photo from a parking lot at the back of the courthouse showing the structure, which leads from the car park directly to the courthouse entrance.

We were sort of under the assumption that Rupert Murdoch, Tucker Carlson, Sean Hannity may actually walk in through the front door of the courthouse, Mr Entin said during a broadcast on Monday night.

Theyve actually built this tent where we assume Murdoch and other high-profile witnesses will actually drive right into that tent, he said.

You wont be able to see anything. They get out of the car and then theyre able to walk inside, out of the view of cameras.

A long tent erected at the back of the Delaware Superior Courthouse could shield high-profile witnesses in the Fox News defamation trial from public view. (Brian Entin / NewsNation)

Delaware court policy has long banned cameras and audio recordings from courtroom proceedings.

The trial had been due to begin on Monday, but was delayed for 24 hours so that both parties could hold last-minute settlement talks, according to media reports.

Jury selection continued on Tuesday morning, after which opening arguments are due to begin.

Witnesses could be called to testify as soon as Tuesday afternoon.

Fox News is being sued for deliberately spreading false information about Dominions voting systems manipulated the outcome of the 2020 presidential election.
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A parking garage collapsed in lower Manhattan, killing one and leaving others injured and potentially trapped under the rubble.

Emergency responders were called to a parking garage near Nassau Street in the Financial District just after 4pm.

One person died in the collapse, according to Mayor Eric Adams, who held a press conference near the site.

At this time, we only have one DOA, he said. I do want to point out that, thank God, we had the robotic dog that was able to go in the building. This is ideally what we talk about  not sending a human being inside a building that was unstable. We were also able to use the technology of a drone to give a real visualisation of whats happening in this building. At this time, this building is completely unstable and the chief  we do not want to send in someone until we can make sure the building is shored up. But using the necessary technology, were able to get a clear view of whats happening inside the building, for the most part, and do whatever we can to see if there are any more victims.

Fire officials said during the press conference that there were at least four people with injuries, and that they believe all people at the parking garage have been accounted for, but they are still searching to ensure no one is trapped.

New York City Council member Christopher Marte tweeted that there are a few people stuck in an elevator and in the building, though those reports are unconfirmed.

At 57 Ann St, people are currently trapped in a parking garage due to an internal collapse. I am here with the FDNY who have just entered the building to attempt to rescue a few people stuck in an elevator and in the building, he wrote. Hoping everyone is able to get out safely.

Video and images captured at the scene show cars stacked on top of each other surrounded by concrete rubble. Fire officials said the second floor of the parking deck collapsed onto the first.

A video shared by the New York City mayors office showed a street packed with onlookers and police as fire fighters worked from cherry pickers to search for individuals trapped between the floors of the structure.

Officials are urging people to avoid the area while rescue and clean-up operations are underway. Two nearby Pace University building was evacuated following the collapse, according to ABC 7. The university announced that classes would be cancelled for the rest of the day.

Emergency responders are largely staying out of the structure due to fears it may collapse further. They canvassed surrounding businesses to ensure all employees are accounted for.
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Two nonprofit groups  including the group that challenged several GOP House members eligibility to serve because of their support for the January 6 attack on the Capitol  are looking to use the same provision of the US Constitution to keep Donald Trump off the ballot next year.

Free Speech for People and Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington are preparing to ask courts to disqualify the twice-impeached, indicted ex-president from appearing on ballots in multiple states because his actions before and during the riot amount to support for insurrection against the United States.

Mr Trumps support for the attack, the groups say, would fall under Section 3 of the 14th Amendment to the US Constitution, which prohibits any officer of the United States who has engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the country  after previously taking an oath to support the Constitution  from serving in any federal office.

In the run-up to the 2022 midterm election, Free Speech for People brought challenges under Section 3 against two GOP candidates, then-North Carolina Representative Madison Cawthorn and Georgia Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene.

The groups case against Mr Cawthorn was declared moot after the now-former congressman lost his primary, and the challenge to Ms Greene was unsuccessful because a Georgia judge found that her actions on January 6, just three days after she was sworn in to the House, did not meet the definition of an insurrection.

But Ron Fein, the groups legal director and the lead attorney in those two prior cases, told The Washington Post that the strategy could bear fruit against Mr Trump because of the massive amount of evidence against him that was assembled by the House January 6 committee last year.

Our goals are to force Donald Trump to answer questions under oath about his involvement in the January 6 insurrection, and to obtain court decisions holding that he is disqualified from public office and excluding him from the ballot, Mr Fein said in a statement.

Crew, the other group looking to challenge Mr Trumps eligibility to serve, has successfully sought to disqualify one Republican elected official under Section 3 of the 14th Amendment.

Last year, a New Mexico judge found Otero County Commissioner Couy Griffin  a convicted January 6 rioter  ineligible to serve because of his actions at the Capitol on January 6.

In a ruling removing Griffin from office, Judge Francis Matthew found Griffin had engaged in insurrection and became constitutionally disqualified from federal and state office and forfeited his current office as an Otero County Commissioner as of the day of the Capitol attack.

He also found that Griffin, who gained a measure of prominence in right-wing circles as the founder of Cowboys for Trump, aided the insurrection even though he did not personally engage in violence.

By joining the mob and trespassing on restricted Capitol grounds, Mr. Griffin contributed to delaying Congress's election-certification proceedings, the judge said.

Donald Sherman, Crews chief counsel, told the Post that the group was planning a strategy designed to enforce the Constitution to bar Trump from serving as president.

We have had two major insurrections in this country. One was the Civil War, which gave rise to Section 3. And one was [January 6], he said.
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A major defamation lawsuit against Fox News goes to trial Tuesday, carrying the potential to shed additional light on former President Donald Trump's election lies, reveal more about how the right-leaning network operates and even redefine libel law in the U.S. Here are some things to know about the case.

___

THE CASE

Dominion Voting Systems is suing Fox for $1.6 billion, claiming the news outlet repeatedly aired allegations that the company's voting machines were rigged to doom Trumps 2020 reelection campaign while knowing they were untrue. Fox contends that it was reporting newsworthy charges made by supporters of the Republican then-president and is supported legally by libel standards. After a one-day delay that raised the possibility of a last-minute settlement between the litigants, seating of the jury is scheduled to start Tuesday, followed immediately by opening statements.

___

ELECTION DISCONNECT

Denver-based Dominion has produced evidence that prominent people at Fox didn't believe the fraud allegations, even as the network gave Trumps allies airtime to repeat them. Multiple staffers texted and emailed in disbelief as Trump latched onto increasingly tenuous claims of being robbed by voter fraud. Foxs Sean Hannity said in a deposition that he did not believe the fraud claims for one second but wanted to give accusers the chance to produce evidence. Fox founder Rupert Murdoch, questioned under oath, agreed the 2020 election, won by Democrat Joe Biden, was free and fair: The election was not stolen, he said. Murdoch even wrote on Jan. 5, 2021, to a top executive urging that prominent Fox personalities issue a statement acknowledging Biden's legitimate win. At the same time, Murdoch acknowledged that Fox hosts such as Lou Dobbs and Jeanine Pirro at times endorsed false claims of election fraud.

___

FOXS FEAR

The court papers have laid out a profound concern at Fox over the impact of its election night call that Biden had beaten Trump in the battleground state of Arizona  a call that was accurate. Fox scooped its rivals on the call, but it infuriated Trump and many Fox viewers, who expressed their anger and began tuning in to rival conservative media outlets such as Newsmax. Emails and memos released in the case show Fox executives were highly aware of a drop-off in their network's viewership at the same time that Newsmax was gaining viewers, and the executives viewed that dynamic as a potential threat.

___

LIBEL LAW

In its defense, Fox has relied on a doctrine of libel law, in place since a 1964 U.S. Supreme Court ruling, that has made it difficult for some plaintiffs to prove defamation by news outlets. Public figures, and Dominion fits that standard in this case, have to prove not only that the information reported was incorrect but that the news organization acted with reckless disregard about whether it was true or not. Fox says Dominion cant prove its case, but some First Amendment advocates suggest the voting machine company has a strong argument. Their worry is that a prolonged legal battle would give the Supreme Court a chance to change libel laws that would weaken protection for all the media.

___

JUDGE'S IRE

The runup to the trial has been rocky for Fox, and not just because the public got a look at such private chatter as primetime host Tucker Carlson saying he passionately hated Trump. The trial judge has scolded the network for 11th-hour disclosures about Murdochs role at Fox News and about some evidence involving Fox Business host Maria Bartiromo, including recordings of her talking off-camera with Trumps lawyers. (Fox lawyers later apologized to the judge about the Murdoch matter, saying it was a misunderstanding not intended to deceive.) Fox, meanwhile, won some legal fights over limiting what jurors can hear, including a ruling that bars testimony about the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.

___

TRUMPS INTEREST

Trump has taken a keen interest in the case, judging by his social media posts. Always concerned about loyalty, and nursing a grudge about the Arizona call, he has expressed anger at revelations in the case that many people at Fox not only did not support his fraud allegations but privately disdained them. Trump had stepped up his criticism of Fox as the 2024 Republican presidential primary gained steam, but he recently has given interviews to Carlson and Hannity.

___

THE ELECTION

Federal and state election officials, exhaustive reviews in multiple battleground states where Trump challenged his loss, and Trumps attorney general found no widespread fraud that could have changed the outcome of the 2020 election. Nor did they uncover any credible evidence that the vote was tainted. Trumps allegations of fraud also have been roundly rejected by dozens of courts, including by judges he appointed.
 Close Donald Trump reacts to Joe Bidens 2024 re-election campaign announcement

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Donald Trump allegedly raped advice columnist E Jean Carroll after a chance encounter at an upmarket New York department store and then destroyed her career when he repeatedly lied about the claims, a civil jury in New York heard on Tuesday.

Opening arguments in Mr Trumps civil rape trial began in a courtroom in New York on Tuesday.

Former Elle magazine columnist E Jean Carroll has claimed that the former president raped her in a dressing room at the Bergdorf Goodman department store in Manhattan in the mid-1990s.

She first spoke out about the allegations in 2019, when Mr Trump was president.

He denied the incident took place and infamously retorted, Shes not my type.

Now, Ms Carroll is getting her day in court after filing a new lawsuit  her second  in November, suing him for both the alleged sexual assault and for then defaming her by denying it took place.

The trial comes after New York passed its Adult Survivors Act, giving sexual abuse victims a one-year window to sue attackers for historic assaults.
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Republican megadoor Harlan Crow defended his friendship with Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas in an interview with The Dallas Morning News and denied any impropriety regarding their relationship.

Mr Crows friendship with the most-senior jurist on the Supreme Court has come under intense scrutiny ever since investigative news outlet ProPublica reported that Mr Thomas had vactioned in luxury on Mr Crows dime without disclosing it. ProPublica later reported that Mr Thomas sold a home to Mr Crow but did not disclose it, despite a 1978 law that required such transactions be disclosed.

But Mr Crow, a real estate magnate based in the Dallas area, said he and Mr Thomas did nothing wrong and said the reporting was factually incorrect and being written with a strong political agenda.

Mr Crow said he did not think the media cared so much about him but were using him to get to Mr Thomas.

But I think that the media, and this ProPublica group in particular, funded by leftists, has an agenda to destabilize the [Supreme] Court, he told The Dallas Morning News. What theyve done is not truthful. It lacks integrity. Theyve done a pretty good job in the last week or two of unfairly slamming me and more importantly than that, unfairly slamming Justice Thomas.

Editor Stephen Engelberg defended his outlets funding and reporting, noting how ProPublica has 36,000 donors and is an independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit news outlet.

Its worth noting that he and Justice Thomas were given detailed, written questions in advance of our stories, he said. Thomas declined to respond. Crows answers were included in full. He questioned none of the facts we reported.

Mr Crow said the two became friends 27 years ago when he spoke with executives who told him that Mr Thomas was appearing in Dallas, which led Mr Crow to offer to fly Mr Thomas on his jet.

I had never met him, he said. During that flight, we found out we were kind of simpatico. Were the same age. We grew up in the same era. We come from absolutely polar opposite life stories, but we had a lot in common.

Mr Crow said that interaction led to the two becoming close friends.

A lot of people that have opinions about this seem to think that theres something wrong with this friendship, he said. You know, its possible that people are just really friends. It blows my mind that people assume that because Clarence Thomas has friends, that those friends have an angle.

Mr Crow noted that he considered himself pro-choice whereas Mr Thomas is one of the most ardent opponents of abortion on the court.

Do you think I would try to influence him about my point of view on that matter? No, of course not, he said. Thats insane, he said. We have different points of view on that and probably other issues.
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Hillary Clinton has insisted Donald Trump would not be re-elected even if he wins the Republican nomination to run for president next year.

The former Democratic candidate said people are more onto him than during the last two elections.

Ms Clinton added that he has a hard core of support which will help him secure the Republican nomination. But, speaking to Sky News, she said: In a general election against president Joe Biden, I do not believe he can win.

People are more onto him and his behaviour than they were before.

Ms Clinton went on to say she believes Mr Biden will be re-elected no matter who he comes up against. The 75-year-old branded Mr Trumps main Republican rival Ron DeSantis unproven, adding that nobody really outside of Florida knows very much about him.

She added: In Florida they are watching him do crazy things. So I actually believe that president Biden will be re-elected regardless of who the Republican nominee is.

Ms Clinton praised Mr Bidens record in office, including garnering support for Ukraine, uniting Asian countries against Chinese aggressiveness and passing major legislation through congress. She said: Look what hes getting done.

She said: We are living back in a time when a lot of people expect their leaders to be performers, not producers. Ms Clinton added that Mr Biden is not a performer like Boris Johnson or Mr Trump, and thank God for that.

Dismissing criticism of Mr Biden, who would be 86 at the end of a second presidential term, as too old to run for re-election, Ms Clinton said: I feel like I could do the job. Im in my mid-seventies.

Ms Clinton lost the 2016 presidential election to Mr Trump after a campaign dubbed the most bitter in recent American history by The New Yorker.

She spoke to Skys Beth Rigby at Belfasts Queens University, where she is chancellor, for a three-day conference to mark 25 years of the Northern Irish peace deal.

Former Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams, former UK prime minister Tony Blair and former Irish PM Bertie Ahern spoke on Monday, addressing the anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement.

Ms Clinton, Barack Obamas former secretary of state, also urged the US and Nato to do much more to supply the planes and anti-aircraft missiles Ukraine needs amid Russias ongoing invasion.

Ukraine is getting enough help to be able to withstand the Russian invasion. It needs to get enough help to repel the Russian invasion, she said.

Ms Clinton warned that Russian president Vladimir Putins brutality knows no bounds. The Russians are taking enormous losses. I want to keep the pressure up and make it even more on the Russians because as we now look at the available information, they could get more brutal in terms of the air defence, she said.

Thats why the Ukrainians need more help to repel that, she added.
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President Joe Biden has spoken with Ralph Yarl, the Black teenager who was shot in Kansas City, Missouri, allegedly by a white homeowner after he mistakenly rang the wrong doorbell.

The president phoned the 16-year-old from the White House on Monday afternoon after Ralph had been discharged from hospital.

On Tuesday the White House released a photo of Mr Biden speaking to Ralph and his family on the phone and revealed that the president had invited the high school student to visit him in the Oval Office once he was well enough.

The president wrote: Last night, I had a chance to call Ralph Yarl and his family. No parent should have to worry that their kid will be shot after ringing the wrong doorbell. Weve got to keep up the fight against gun violence. And Ralph, well see you in the Oval once you feel better.

According to Kansas City Police on 13 April the high school junior had gone to collect his siblings from a friends house on 115th Terrace in Kansas City, Missouri when he muddled up the address and went to a home on 115th Street by mistake.

The teenager rang the doorbell and the homeowner allegedly opened fire on him. Andrew D Lester, an 84-year-old white homeowner, was charged over the incident, county prosecutor Zachary Thompson said in a press conference on Monday.

Ralph was shot twice  once in the head and once in the arm  according to Ben Crump and Lee Merritt, the prominent civil rights attorneys now representing him.

The attorneys said Mr Biden had called Ralph and his family on Monday shortly before they learned of the charges being brought against Mr Lester.

The president offered his prayers for Ralphs health and for justice, they said in a statement.

The White House said Mr Biden had shared his hope for a swift recovery, reported Politico.

The incident has caused widespread anger in the Black community and led to protests and demands for justice from civil rights activists.

Prosecutors have also said there is a racial component to the case.

He didnt have his phone. He mistakenly went to the wrong house, one block away from the house where his siblings were. He pulled into the driveway and rang the doorbell, the family said on a GoFundMe page.

The man in the home opened the door, looked my nephew in the eye, and shot him in the head. My nephew fell to the ground, and the man shot him again, said a woman on the GoFundMe page, who described herself as Ralphs aunt.

Police booking photo of Andrew Lester (Clay County Jail)

On Monday evening, authorities revealed Mr Lester was initially taken into custody on Thursday and placed on a 24-hour hold and later released as per Missouri state law.

Clay County prosecutor Zachary Thompson said Mr Lester was charged with assault in the first degree, which carries a punishment of 10-30 years or life imprisonment.

He has also been charged with armed criminal action, which carries a punishment of 3-15 years.

Mr Thompson said a bond has been set of $200,000. Mr Lester handed himself in to police on Tuesday.

Ralph is now recovering at home.
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Donald Trump mocked Ron DeSantis for the recent debate over changes to the Reedy Creek Improvement District by suggesting Walt Disney World could retaliate against the Florida Governor.

DeSanctus is being absolutely destroyed by Disney, the former president wrote on Truth Social on Tuesday.

Mr Trumps reference was to the recent legislation Mr DeSantis passed as an attempt to exercise more control over Disney World, which had its own government jurisdiction.

Last year, Mr DeSantis signed into law a new piece of legislation that would abolish the special taxing district Disney is part of.

The district, originally called the Reedy Creek Improvement District, was first created in 1967 to give Disney control of the land and zoning rules around it.

However, in February, Mr DeSantis decided not to dissolve it and instead appointed conservative activists to the board of the Reedy Creek Improvement District, which is now called the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District.

The governor then hit a roadblock in March, when the previous board approved a last-minute clause that allows Disney the final say, 21 years after the death of the last survivor of the descendants of King Charles III, king of England.

Mr Trump ridiculed Mr DeSantis, saying, His original P.R. plan fizzled, so now hes going back with a new one in order to save face.

Mr DeSantis held a press conference this past week threatening Disney should they not cooperate. This included potentially raising the parks taxes, building a prison next door, or selling the land around Disney to a different theme park.

Mr Trump added, Disneys next move will be the announcement that no more money will be invested in Florida because of the Governor- In fact, they could even announce a slow withdrawal or sale of certain properties, or the whole thing.

Watch! That would be a killer. In the meantime, this is all so unnecessary, a political STUNT! Ron should work on the squatter MESS!

Mr Trumps mocking comments about Mr DeSantis are becoming more common as he looks to the Republican nomination for 2024 president.

Though Mr DeSantis has not formally announced a campaign, many believe he will and could be a leading opponent to Mr Trump.

In recent weeks and months, Mr Trump has launched public attacks on Mr DeSantis. The Disney debacle is just the latest one to come from the former president who has also criticised the Florida Governors Covid-19 policies.

The back-and-forth between Mr DeSantis and Disney is thought to have begun after the massive corporation pushed back against Mr DeSantis Parental Rights in Education Act, also known as the Dont Say Gay Bill.

Disney announced they would host their very first Pride Nite, which some believe is a direct troll on Mr DeSantis.
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Decades after she was allegedly raped by a New York real estate mogul who would go on to be the 45th President of the United States, E Jean Carroll is getting her day in court.

Ms Carroll, a writer and former advice columnist for Elle magazine, is the plaintiff in a pair of civil lawsuits against former president Donald Trump.

One of those lawsuits is now being presented in a New York City federal courtroom under the supervision of US District Judge Lewis Kaplan. The proceedings began on 25 April.

The jurors in the trial will remain anonymous on Judge Kaplans orders due to the risk of threats, intimidation or outright violence against anyone seen as an enemy by Mr Trump and his supporters as they hear evidence of allegations made by Ms Carroll against the twice-impeached and indicted ex-president.

Ms Carroll has claimed that Mr Trump raped her in a dressing room at the Bergdorf Goodman department store in Manhattan in the mid-1990s.

The magazine columnist spoke out about the allegations for the first time in 2019 when Mr Trump was president.

After he denied the allegations and accused her of lying in a bid to bolster sales of her forthcoming book, she filed a defamation lawsuit against him in November 2019.

That suit stalled in the courts for years and is yet to make it to trial.

Then, last year, New York lawmakers passed the states Adult Survivors Act, giving sexual abuse victims a one-year window to sue attackers for assaults that took place years ago.

That law paved the way for Ms Carroll to file a second lawsuit against the former president in November accusing him of both raping her and then defaming her years later by denying the assault took place.

That second lawsuit  seeking damages and a retraction of his denial  is now playing out in a New York court.

What Carroll said about the alleged dressing room rape

The allegations against Mr Trump were first laid out in an excerpt from her book What Do We Need Men For? A Modest Proposal, that ran in New York magazine in June 2019.

In the book excerpt, she said she was shopping at the Bergdorf-Goodman department store in New York when Mr Trump approached her and struck up a conversation, with him asking her for help picking out a gift for a woman.

She then alleged that he took her to the lingerie section of the store and asked her to try on an item for him in a dressing room before pinning her up against a wall and sexually assaulting her for three minutes.

At the time, Ms Carroll said the emergence of the #MeToo movement in late 2017 motivated her to tell her story publicly.

Mr Trump addressed the allegations days later when pressed on them by reporters at the White House.

He claimed he had never met her and denied raping her by telling the White House press corps that Ms Carrol was not [his] type.

He also accused her of lying to boost sales of her memoir.

She is trying to sell a new book  that should indicate her motivation, the then-president said, adding that her book should be sold in the fiction section.

Ms Carroll pushed back on his claims, sharing a photo of herself and Mr Trump together with his then-wife Ivana Trump and her then-husband John Johnson at an NBC party in 1987 to show they had met.

In her 2019 defamation suit against Mr Trump, she alleged his denials had caused her to suffer reputational, emotional, and professional harm and said she was suing to obtain redress for those injuries and to demonstrate that even a man as powerful as Trump can be held accountable under the rule of law.

Justice Department involvement delayed the defamation suit

Although a Clinton-era Supreme Court case, Jones v Clinton, allows presidents to be sued for conduct which occurred before the start of their time in the White House, Mr Trumps legal team asked the Department of Justice to aid in his defence of the 2019 case.

The department filed papers seeking to shield him from liability on the grounds that he was acting in an official capacity as president when he made the allegedly defamatory statements about Ms Carroll. But Judge Kaplan rejected those arguments and said the suit could proceed. An attempt by Mr Trump to appeal that decision failed in September 2021 as well.

His legal team took up another approach in February of last year when they moved to countersue Ms Carroll.

But Judge Kaplan blocked that bid in a scathing decision on 11 March 2022, in which he slammed Mr Trumps continuing attempts to delay the case as futile and in bad faith.

The defendants litigation tactics, whatever their intent, have delayed the case to an extent that readily could have been far less, Judge Kaplan wrote.

Granting leave to amend without considering the futility of the proposed amendment needlessly would make a regrettable situation worse by opening new avenues for significant further delay.

Letting Mr Trump countersue would make a regrettable situation worse, the judge added.

Carroll suing Trump for alleged rape

Last year, New York Governor Kathy Hochul signed into law the Adult Survivors Act, which created a one-year suspension of statutes of limitations for rape and other civil claims arising from allegations of sexual misconduct.

The law allows sexual assault survivors to sue their attackers regardless of when the alleged assault may have taken place.

In November 2022, shortly after the bill signing, Ms Carroll filed a second lawsuit against Mr Trump for rape.

The new case accuses him of battery  and also adds a new defamation claim based on recent posts in which he called her a con job.

Both lawsuits are seeking monetary damages from the ex-president.

Judge Kaplan rejected Trumps last-minute delay bid

After Mr Trumps lawyers made an 11th-hour attempt to once again postpone the long-delayed civil trial on the grounds that publicity surrounding his recent indictment necessitated a cooling-off period to ensure an impartial jury, Judge Kaplan said the one-month delay Mr Trumps attorneys had asked for would have no impact on the potential jury pool in the case, which will be tried in the US District Court for the Southern District of New York.

There is no reason to assume that a sufficient number of fair and impartial jurors cannot be found on April 25, 2023 or that it would be materially easier to find such jurors on May 23, 2023, he said.

Former advice columnist E. Jean Carroll walks into Manhattan federal court on Tuesday, April 25, 2023, in New York (AP)

Is Trump attending?

In a court filing last week, Mr Trump said he shouldnt attend the trial as he doesnt want to burden New York City.

In a letter to Manhattan federal court Judge Lewis Kaplan on 19 April, Mr Trumps attorney Joe Tacopina said that the former president wishes to attend the civil trial beginning next week  but is concerned about the logistical and financial burdens of his attendance on the courthouse and New York City.

Ms Carroll meanwhile is attending the proceedings.
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The White House on Tuesday decried the shooting of 16-year-old Ralph Yarl as the latest in an epidemic of gun violence that appears to be continuing unabated across the United States.

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre called the attack on the Missouri teenager, who was shot once in the head and once in the arm after ringing the wrong doorbell over the weekend, devastating and lamented the sheer number of such events that she has had to address from the briefing room. Ralph was shot after approaching the wrong house to pick up his younger siblings.

It feels like every week, at least once a week, I come to the podium and I talk about this gun violence epidemic that we're seeing across the country, and how our communities and families across America, yet again, have been devastated by tragic acts of gun violence. And it is not just devastating for me, I'm sure it's devastating for all of you and your families. Its devastating for this president, its devastating for our administration ... to have to continue to do that over and over again, she said.

Ms Jean-Pierre said President Joe Biden had spoken to the young shooting victim to discuss his success in high school in high school and his hopes for the future and to wish him a speedy recovery.

The President committed to Ralph and his mom, as he has committed to so many other survivors, that he will continue to fight for Gun Safety reforms. That's because action on gun safety is what we owe. It is what we owe to those who have had their lives stolen from them. And it is what the American people want to see, she said.

The Clay County Sheriffs Office announced that 84-year-old Andrew Lester had surrendered to authorities on Tuesday  more than 20 hours after felony charges were filed against him. He has already posted bond.

Andrew Lester, charged in the shooting of Ralph Yarl, has surrendered at our Detention Center and is in custody, the Clay County Sheriffs Office said earlier in a statement. He is in the booking process right now.
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The March of the Living took place at the former Auschwitz-Birkenau camp on Tuesday, 18 April, to commemorate victims of the Holocaust, 80 years after the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising.

Since 1988, surviving concentration camp prisoners, their children and grandchildren, and young Jews from all over the world have gathered in Auschwitz on Yom HaShoa, Israels national Holocaust Memorial Day, for the march.

Earlier on Tuesday, Israel marked the date with the sound of a two-minute siren.

President Isaac Herzog yesterday appealed for national unity on Yom HaShoa, after months of mass protests that have roiled the nation.

Let us leave these sacred days, which begin tonight and end on Independence Day, above all dispute, he said.

Let us all come together, as always, in partnership, in grief, in remembrance.

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A bear that mauled a jogger to death in the Italian Alps has been captured by authorities.

Andrea Papi was killed by a bear while out running in the northeastern region of Trentino-Alto Adige earlier this month. His death made headlines across Italy and started a debate about the countrys growing population of Alpine bears.

JJ4, a 17-year-old female, was captured in the Brenta national park in a tube trap baited by fresh fruit, said officials in the autonomous province of Trento. She was sedated and taken to a holding center pending a final decision on her fate. Her three cubs, who are two years old and self-sufficient, were with her at the time but were freed unharmed.

The bear had been identified by DNA, leading to the search for its whereabouts. Provincial authorities had ordered the animal euthanised, but the move was blocked by a court after an appeal by animal rights groups.

JJ4 is the same Alpine brown bear that injured a father and son out walking in the region in 2020. Then too, Trento provincial authorities ordered her killed but a court blocked the move.

She is the sister of two other brown bears that have been ordered killed in recent years because of their aggressive behavior, including "Bruno," or JJ1, who was killed after he crossed into Germany in 2005, and JJ3, killed by Swiss authorities in the canton of Grigioni in 2008, Italian news reports said.

At a news conference Tuesday, Trentos provincial president, Maurizio Fugatti, expressed anger that Mr Papis death could have been avoided if JJ4 had been euthanized after her first dangerous encounter with humans in 2020.

He denounced as "ideological" the arguments by animal rights groups that have opposed selective euthanasia for bears known to be aggressive, like JJ4.

Andrea Papi, 26, was killed by a bear while running in mountains near the town of Caldes ( Instagram)

He told a press conference that the province would have preferred to have euthanized her on the spot and still hopes to do so, pending a final court ruling.

JJ4 was born to two bears brought to Italy from Slovenia two decades ago as part of an EU-funded program to repopulate the brown bear population that had been dwindling to the point of near extinction.

Her parents, Joze and Jurka, were introduced in 2000 and 2001 respectively and account for the "JJ" initials of her name and those of her siblings.

European Union-funded Life Ursus project  aimed at increasing the Alpine brown bear population which was once nearly extinct  began in 1999 with the introduction of three males and six female bears into the Trento forests. The project had the intention of rebuilding the population to 40-60 bears over a few decades.

But the project has worked too well, and the population has rebounded to more than 100 identified bears, which are increasingly encountering the human population, according to Italian media.

Mr Fugatti is seeking the transfer of some 60 "excess" bears from the Trento region and said he planned to convene a working group to discuss the next steps.

A coalition of animal rights groups, including the International Organization of Animal Protection, or OIPA, demanded Trento authorities "rigorously" respect the court suspension of the kill order and vowed to defend Jj4 and her cubs "via all available legal means."

Mr Papis family had said they didnt want the bear to be culled.
 Close Related: Putin visits Russian troops in Ukraines Kherson and Luhansk regions

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An ally of Russias president Vladimir Putin has warned that the world is probably on the verge of a new world war as the risks of a nuclear battle escalate.

The world is sick and quite probably is on the verge of a new world war, former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev told a conference in Moscow.

He said such a new world war was not inevitable but that the risks of a nuclear confrontation were growing  and more serious than concerns about climate change.

It comes as Ukrainian forces based on the western side of the River Dnipro begin frequently carrying out raids on the eastern bank near the city of Kherson to try to dislodge Russian troops, a regional official said on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, Ukraine accused Moscow of deploying the kind of war tactics used in Syria to level Bakhmut, as heavy fighting for control of the salt mining city continues.
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Watch as Israel marks Holocaust Remembrance Day with the sound of a two-minute siren on Tuesday 18 April.

President Isaac Herzog on Monday appealed for national unity on Yom Hashoah, the day Israel observes as a memorial for the six million Jews killed by Nazi Germany and its allies in the Holocaust, after months of mass protests that have roiled the nation.

Let us leave these sacred days, which begin tonight and end on Independence Day, above all dispute, he said.

Let us all come together, as always, in partnership, in grief, in remembrance.

Official observances began after sundown on Monday with a ceremony at the Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial in Jerusalem.

Six survivors, including one of the few remaining survivors of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, lit torches for the memory of the siz million killed.

Prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu will attend the main wreath-laying ceremony at the Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial on Tuesday.

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A Russian woman who posed nude for photos in front of a sacred tree in Bali has been deported by Indonesias authorities.

Russian tourist Luiza Kosykh, 40, had uploaded photos on her Instagram of her posing next to the kayu putih (weeping paperbark) sacred tree at Balis Tabanan temple. Hindus in Bali consider the 700-year-old tree sacred.

Ni Luh Djelantik, who described herself as an entrepreneur, also posted the photos on social media on 11 April and criticised the tourist.

To all foreigner(s) who disrespect our land, Bali is our home, not yours! she wrote in her Instagram post that collected more than 17,000 likes.

Do you think youll look cool taking naked picture(s) on our holy trees? Go back to your country if you cant respect our tradition and culture, she wrote.

She also tagged the Russian woman who described herself as a spiritual lover, energy giver and healer on Instagram. Her social media page on the platform, however, seems to have been deleted.

On 12 April, Indonesian authorities reportedly arrested Ms Kosykh.

Nengah Sukadana, an official from Balis legal and human rights agency, said on Monday that the Russian citizen had left Denpasar, Bali, and took a flight to Moscow a day earlier.

Some local news reports, however, said Ms Kosykh insisted the photoshoot was from a few years ago and she did not know the tree was considered sacred.

Not all tourists know whats allowed and whats not allowed in Bali. So we urge locals to pay close attention to prevent similar incidents from happening again, local legal and human rights agency official Anggiat Napitupulu told a press conference on Sunday.

This is the second time in nearly a year that a tourist has been accused of disrespecting the sacred tree.

Russian Instagram influencer Alina Fazleeva took naked photos beside the tree in May last year.

Ms Djelantik had reported the star and her husband to the Balinese authorities.

Ms Fazleeva had quickly deleted the offending photo and followed it up with an apology video and a photo of her praying under the same tree with a caption in the Bahasa language.

I apologise to all Balinese and Indonesian people, I regret my actions, she said in a follow-up post.

In a separate incident, a Canadian man was thrown out of Bali by the authorities last year after a video showing him performing a nude dance on sacred Mount Batur had gone viral. The man reportedly performed a naked haka-style dance atop the mountain.

In March this year, a man was deported for taking off his pants on the sacred Mount Agung.
A bear that killed a jogger in the Italian Alps has been captured with a tube cage, police have confirmed.

Andrea Papi died while out running in the northeastern region of Trentino-Alto Adige earlier in April.

JJ4, a 17-year-old female, was captured in a trap laden with fresh fruit, said Trento authorities.

She has been sedated and taken to a holding center. Her fate has not yet been determined.

JJ4s three two-year-old cubs, who are self sufficient, were freed unharmed.

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Two explosions in central Khartoum, Sudans capital city, were captured live on TV on Tuesday 18 April.

According to TV channel Al-Arabiya, residents awoke to the sounds of gunfire.

Rapid Support Forces (RSF) leader, General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, said the RSF reaffirms its approval of a 24-hour ceasefire to ensure civilians and the wounded can evacuate safely.

The general claimed that the military failed to honour the ceasefire, bombing densely populated areas and endangering civilian lives.

The conflict between the army and the paramilitary has killed at least 185 people and injured more than 1,800.

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Chris Philp clashed with Good Morning Britain host Ed Balls during an interview on Tuesday morning (18 April), with the Tory minister telling the former Labour MP to stop interrupting him.

The minister of state for crime, policing and fire also hit out at the deficit that the Labour government left behind as he spoke about the national debt.

You might have noticed Ed... hang on, can you stop interrupting and let me finish? Theres been a massive pandemic, you might have [noticed]. A global pandemic, Mr Philp said as Mr Balls questioned him.

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The CEO of an office furniture company chastise employees in a March town hall who questioned how they will stay motivated if not offered a cash bonus.

In a video that has gone viral on social media, MillerKnoll CEO and president Andi Owen urged employees to leave pity city after she was asked about bonuses amid struggles at the company.

You can visit pity city, but you cant live there, she said, appearing upset with questions on the call.

So people, leave pity city, lets get it done.

In response to the clip circulating on social media, a MillerKnoll spokesperson told Vices Motherboard: Andi fiercely believes in this team and all we can accomplish together, and will not be dissuaded by a 90-second clip taken out of context and posted on social media.

The Independent has reached out to MillerKnoll for a direct comment.

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US journalist Evan Gershkovich appeared in court in Moscow on Tuesday 18 April - the first time he had been seen in public for weeks.

Mr Gershkovich was arrested in the Russian city of Yekaterinburg on 29 March while working for the Wall Street Journal newspaper and charged with spying.

He could be seen on Tuesday standing with folded arms in a bullet-proof glass enclosure, wearing a blue checked shirt.

The court has rejected his appeal against his pre-trial detention.

Mr Gershkovich could face up to 20 years in prison if found guilty of espionage.

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When Democrats picked up a seat in the Senate during last years midterm elections, they hoped that the extra seat would allow them to confirm President Joe Bidens judicial nominees at a faster clip than they had over the past two years.

For the past two years, a 50-50 Senate meant deadlocks on Mr Bidens nominees, including Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, in the Senate Judiciary Committee. That required Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to take additional steps and for Vice President Kamala Harris to occasionally break ties.

The fact that Republicans had won the House of Representatives, effectively killing any future Democratic priorities, and the fact Republicans reshaped the federal judiciary during Donald Trumps administration, made judicial confirmations all the more important for Democrats.

But the day after Senator Raphael Warnock secured his victory in Georgia, I asked Senator Dianne Feinstein of California what she thought of the extra Senate seat for Democrats. She responded it's terrific ... but there's a danger in it as well. And that's being too aggressive.

Progressives and Democrats as a whole have found Ms Feinstein incredibly frustrating in recent years. In 2018, at the age of 85, she chose to run for re-election even after her longtime colleague in the Senate Barbara Boxer had chosen to step aside in 2016, paving the way for Ms Harris election to the Senate, which gave way to her winning the vice presidency. And despite Ms Feinstein authoring of the 1994 Assault Weapons ban and exposing the United States use of torture in the War on Terror, she has always been much more conservative both in temperament and policy than one would expect from a Democrat from reliably liberal California.

Stories have also abounded about her allegedly declining mental acuity, which has led some to call for her resignation. Those calls have only grown louder since she contracted shingles and has been out of commission.

Her absence, combined with Senator John Fettermans as he underwent treatment for depression after he suffered a stroke last year, put Democrats hopes of turning the Senate into a judicial conveyor belt on ice.

Mr Fettermans return this week has only increased the pressure on Democrats to act on Ms Feinstein, who had already announced she would not seek re-election in 2024. But Democrats, from Nancy Pelosi, herself a barrier-breaking Californian woman in politics, to Senator Kirsten Gillibrand of New York, one of the Senates most outspoken feminists, have defended her, even implying sexism might be behind some of the calls to push her aside.

Of course, Democrats really have no recourse since only Ms Feinstein can choose to resign her Senate seat, even though she gave up her top seat on the Senate Judiciary Committee after the 2020 election and opted not to become Senate President Pro Tempore.

But instead, she and Democrats have tried to be too clever by half and get Ms Feinstein to temporarily resign her seat. This is a blatantly shameless ploy by Democrats who refuse to make hard decisions: they do not want to punish Ms Feinstein or force her to finally step aside, but they still want their judges.

Unsurprisingly, Republicans have thumbed their nose at this ploy. Everyone from hardline conservatives like Senators Tom Cotton of Arkansas and Marsha Blackburn of Tennessee to members who regularly make deals with Democrats like John Cornyn of Texas and Thom Tillis of North Carolina have rejected the plan.

Of course, Republicans dont necessarily care about the request being unprecedented, as much as they realise that they have a chance to stymie Mr Bidens judicial nominees, even if they are in the minority. This is the same party that blocked Merrick Garland on the premise that the Senate should not vote on a Supreme Court justice before a presidential election and then reversed course to confirm Amy Coney Barrett shortly before the 2020 election.

The GOPs cynicism knows no bounds. But Democrats should have expected this and realised that their decision to prop up Ms Feinstein would have horrific consquences for their agenda.
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Is there really never going to be ceasefire, let alone a peace settlement, in the War of the Windsors?

Even the coronation has failed to stem the flow of rumours about splits, schisms and sabotage. Or, rather, this looming event, with its global audience of 100 million, seems only to have heightened the tensions, and provoked more skirmishes between the combatants.

What might have been a great moment of unity for the family, as well as for our fracturing United Kingdom and stressed Commonwealth of Nations, is turning into another source of grievance and resentment.

So, what do we have this week? A new book by the royal commentator Robert Jobson that claims the Princess of Wales, still known to many as Kate Middleton, feels a lasting resentment towards Meghan Markle, aka Duchess of Sussex, because of her, Kate, not being permitted to be with the Queen in her final hours.

It does seem a bit macabre, even by the contemporary standard of royal rows, but there we are. The story goes that Charles, dithering between alienating Meghan or Kate, ended up annoying the pair of them instead  a pattern that seems to be becoming a habit.

Allegedly, when members of the royal family travelled to Scotland to visit the Queen before her passing, Charles ordered Harry and Wiliams wives not to attend: Privately, [Charles] wanted to say Meghan was not welcome but he couldnt say that to Harry so he personally intervened and asked Kate to stay back so that it was fairer on Meghan. Meghan desperately wanted to be in Scotland. Hence the resentment.

Then, there are the reports that Queen Camilla has let it be known via a friend that shes hurt by the characterisation of her as the villain in Prince Harrys ill-advised (but entertaining) memoir, Spare.

In Harrys view, not only was Camilla famously the third person in his parents marriage, but she was responsible for various bits of press gossip about him which he found unhelpful  and worse.

And, of course, we all recall the Oprah interview and its aftermath, not to mention the Netflix documentary and its claims that Harry and William brawled (and are now on non-speaking terms), the Prince Andrew problem and all the rest of it.

Its all the more remarkable because the original War of the Windsors, or at least the original frontline, between Charles and Diana, seems to have come to an end. In 1997, after the tragic death of Diana, Camilla Parker-Bowles (as she was then) was the most hated woman in Britain  and was virtually in hiding.

Her emergence as Duchess, Queen Consort  and shortly crowned Queen  has been one of the more successful PR campaigns ever launched by Charles. Even a few years ago, devotees of the cult of Diana would have protested loudly the ascendancy of Camilla, or the Rottweiler as Diana supposedly termed her. Now, Diana seems to have finally faded away.

Aside from the moving references to her and her spirit in Harrys autobiography, theres little talk of what might have been, had Charles and Dianas marriage survived.

But in place of all that strife, we now have multiple new bin fires breaking out all over the House of Windsor. Some, if not all, it must be said, seem like the utmost indulgence to hard-pressed Britons worried how to pay the rent.

There are wrangles about these royal cottages (in reality, grand country homes) that were once allocated to Andrew and Harry. About the tiara Meghan might or might not have worn. About costumes and precedence. About money. About duties. About bad tempers and personal behaviour.

It just goes on and on and on, with each generation generating fresh grudges and grievances, and prosecuting them through friendly media channels.

The impression, which may be unfair, is that these fortunate, privileged people living their comfortable lives (in material terms at any rate) are increasingly self-indulgent, self-obsessed and growing out of touch with the people they purport to serve.

This is going to erode the value of the institution as something that unites the nation, rather than inviting it to takes sides in what resembles a posh soap opera. As Elizabeth II understood so well, the whole royal circus can only carry on with the consent of the people, and that is something too readily taken for granted.

Sadly, the kings coronation seems to be making that point most powerfully, but for all the wrong reasons. If the House of Windsor cannot unite itself, how can it command the unified allegiance of a people?
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One of the finest comedies to emerge in recent years is Scottish. Scot Squad is made by BBC Scotland and is a mockumentary about the unified Police Scotland force, with an especially strong performance by Jack Docherty as chief commissioner Cameron Miekelson, a man whose incompetence is only matched by his pomposity.

Theres one scene where hes talking to camera about how he climbed up through the ranks and the problems you get when people give you false names or think theyre being funny, like Mrs Mittens or Dawn Chorus.

But its actually their real names. Nicola Sturgeon, theres one. I mean, the first time I met Nicola Sturgeon, she says to me, Hello. Im Nicola Sturgeon. I go, Oh, right. Yeah, and Im Harry Haddock. But, of course, it turns out shes actually called Nicola Sturgeon. Ridiculous. So be on your guard.

I do wonder what Miekelsons real-life police officers made of things when they rocked up at the Sturgeon family home to turn the place over and took the dirty great 110,000 campervan away. It looked like a scene from Scot Sqaud, this frankly ridiculous situation in which Sturgeon and the whole Scottish National Party find themselves.

One minute Sturgeon is queen of all she surveys, the vanquisher of Alex Salmond  crushed under her stiletto  the dominant political personality of her times, spoken of in the same respectful tones as Margaret Thatcher, Angela Merkel and Jacinda Adern, and tipped for a top job at the United Nations.

When she quit you could almost hear the laments for the lost leader emanating from every town and glen. She reassured her people that shed still be around, ready to dispense wise counsel to her successor, and that theyd somehow manage without her.

The next minute she discovers PC Jack McLaren is rummaging through her knicker drawer, cyber-sleuth Archie Pepper is confiscating the hard drive and theyve arrested her hubbie. Its like a satirical mini tartan version of when the FBI came to get Trump.

You have to wonder how Sturgeon, a trained solicitor and apparently canny politician ended up in this parodic situation. Rarely can a politician and indeed an entire political party have fallen from grace quite so rapidly.

We are, after all, in a position where the Scottish National Party might go bust, might therefore find itself struck off by the Electoral Commission if it then chooses to de-register, or fails to provide the annual notification required to remain on the register and have to disband and reform as the (rumoured) Scottish Independence Party, having shed plenty of members and voters along the way.

And none of it, none of it at all, can be blamed on wicked English Tories or anyone else but themselves.

Were Sturgeon a little less sanctimonious you might actually feel a bit sorry for her

Were Sturgeon a little less sanctimonious you might actually feel a bit sorry for her; but from the latest leaked video of her addressing her partys National Executive Committee she sounds as arrogant and paranoid as she seems to have become.

But then maybe she always was like that, if she thought when she came to power in 2014 that it was OK for her to be the party leader and first minister and for her husband, Peter Murrell, to be the chief executive.

You could imagine the lurid accusations of conflicts of interest that shed throw at such an unconventional arrangement in any rival political party. So how did she, he or the pair of them think it was anything but glaringly dangerous? Apart, that is, from an excess of self-confidence and lack of scrutiny? It has inevitably given rise to this crisis.

What, if anything, did she know about the 106,000 Murrell lent to the party, a curious sum? Or the 110,000 mobile holiday home/referendum battle bus that wound up on their drive? What did the others on the SNP NEC reckon to any of this? Why did the auditors quit? What did she know  and when  about the police raid, and why did she really resign?

So many questions, and ones that will hang around her and the SNP for some months, if not years. It is perfectly possible that the Scottish electorate have had enough of this parcel of rogues, now led by the defensive continuity candidate Humza Yousaf, and theyll lose many of their seats at the next UK general election. Labour may well be back in government in Holyrood by 2026, even as a minority administration.

Nicola Sturgeon speaking to reporters (Jane Barlow/PA) (PA Wire)

The SNP doesnt look like a party ready to govern an independent Scotland and negotiate its entry into the European Union. Stugeons career even in Scotland seems finished, and the ambition to run Unesco can be safely put to sleep.

The detail may be bewildering, but its not hard to see why all this happened. In any political system, the long dominance of one political party tends to breed complacency, arrogance and worse, because it no longer fears embarrassment or defeat.

Weve seen that under this UK Conservative government, and under New Labour and the Thatcher-Major government as well. It happens a good deal in big cities run by Labour.

Being in power with weak opposition and for far too long tends to corrupt minds. Under Sturgeon, Scotland was a one-party state. Politics became pantomime, as it would when there is zero chance youll actually lose an election and you hold nearly every seat and Labour is left with one.

Some of that SNP success is undoubtedly down to the political talents of the likes of Salmond and Sturgeon, and the frustration many Scots rightly felt about rule by successive English-dominated Tory governments and, above all, Brexit.

Yet its also down to Labour and the other unionist parties failure to offer something satisfactory and appealing to the Scottish voter. Once so dominant, Labours decline in Scotland predates Sturgeons rule, and was in its turn also caused by the same kind of complacency and neglect that has led to so much trouble now for the SNP.

It seems clear, from the perspective of a quarter century of devolution, that Labour took Scotland for granted, and assumed that devolution, the re-establishment of the Scottish Parliament and Donald Dewar were all that was needed to keep the nation happy.

They went wrong, just as the SNP went wrong. In any case, as Chief Commissioner Miekelson would say, Scotland deserves better than to be run by this bunch of bams.
Aidan OHara was targeted during a violent robbery in Khartoum.

An Irish diplomat serving as EU ambassador to Sudan is in good shape after being attacked in his residence, the Tanaiste has said.

Micheal Martin gave an update on Aidan OHara, 58, after he was targeted during a violent robbery at the property as disorder flared in the country.

Mr Martin said the safety of Irish citizens in the African state was paramount as he appealed for an end to the violence.

He said the incident at the ambassadors residence in Khartoum was a gross violation of the Vienna Convention.

Obviously, from our perspective, the safety of our citizens is paramount Michael Martin

At least 185 people have reportedly been killed in violence linked to the power struggle between rival generals in Sudan.

A reported 24-hour ceasefire was due to go into effect on Tuesday.

Aidan is in good shape, thanks be to God, Mr Martin told reporters in Belfast.

We were very worried last evening when we heard of the robbery and the attack.

The situation is very, very fraught in Sudan, we appeal to both sides to cease all hostilities and to implement the framework that has been arrived at, and I would ask the protagonists to heed the words of the UN secretary-general (Antonio Guterres) in respect of ending the violence and engaging in talks.

We do have a number of Irish citizens in Sudan, many working with international organisations, Aidan is a UN ambassador in Sudan. Were keeping obviously a very close eye on their wellbeing.

Obviously, its very difficult to leave the country right now (with) the situation at the airport in Khartoum.

With our colleagues within the European Union and with the United Kingdom, well continue to monitor that and obviously, from our perspective, the safety of our citizens is paramount.
Rain hits mart numbers but prices hold up for better stock

Many buyers gambled that the rain would soon stop and field conditions would improve  both of which have now happened

Am I in this? Ashbrook Romeo (born April 2021) checks out the signage as he sold for 2,650 at the Irish Aubrac pedigree sale at Tullamore Mart. Photo: Alf Harvey

Martin Coughlan Tue 18 Apr 2023 at 03:30
John Deere says it will continue to take steps to deter thieves after spate of GPS thefts
Caroline van der Plas: 'Silent majority' voted for pro-farmer party in The Netherlands - and the same can happen in Ireland
Irish beef shipments to China had been suspended following the confirmation of an isolated case of atypical BSE in May 2020

Irish beef is set to be delivered to the Port of Shanghai in China this week for the first time since the suspension of trade in May 2020.
The expectation is that prices will drop to around the historical average and that there will be significant upside price potential in the second half of 2023 and onwards.
From crisis to resilience: navigating ad hoc support in Irish agriculture

Overseas solutions: 1,000 bales of Dutch hay being unloaded from a cargo ship in Cork Port in 2013. Dairygold imported the hay which was distributed to farmers in areas of heavy and wet soils, where fodder was needed to supplement feed

Few farmers will forget the fodder crisis that gripped the sector in the spring of 2013. This week 10 years ago, the Farming Independent reported that fleets of articulated lorries full of hay were arriving daily from Britain and France; farmers in west Clare were donated 1,000 bales of fresh grass cut at Shannon Airport said to be worth up to 40,000  such was the demand for fodder,
Meet the farm leader who quit dairy to work at the coalface of the renewable energy revolution

UFU deputy president John McLenaghan installed a 330kW biogas plant on his Derry farm, which uses manure, slurry and silage from his beef and egg operations. He explains why he switched from dairy and calls for a stimulus package to kickstart a renewable energy sector south of the border

Renewable energy pioneer: John McLenaghan with the AD digestor he installed on his farm at Garvagh, Co Derry. Photos: Niall Hurson

Niall Hurson Tue 18 Apr 2023 at 03:30
Poland, Hungary and Slovakia have imposed bansTalks to resume Tuesday in WarsawEU has criticised bans

Ukrainian workers inspect the emptying process of one of the rail wagons full of grain inside a 48-container silo near Cierna nad Tisou, Slovakia on March 13, 2023. (Photo by Robert Nemeti/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)

Ukraine will try to unblock exports of food and grain through Poland in a second day of talks in Warsaw on Tuesday after some of its staunchest allies in central Europe imposed bans on its products.
But analysts question prospects of bid to realise value from Reits 850m worth of properties

The chief executive of a major Canadian investor in Ires Reit who is calling for the property company to be sold has dismissed the boards response as inadequate and said he is marshalling support from other shareholders to force the issue.
The Commercial Court has been asked to resolve a dispute over the ownership of Dublin property assets involving the sale of shares in Bad Ass Cafe, the purchase of Delaneys pub in Smithfield and ownership of a property in Gardiner Street/Mabbot Lane.

Businesswoman Marina Valera claims her former business partner Paul Tiernan, is asserting some form of beneficial interest over the assets in what she says represents a opportunistic attempt to leverage her and her companies into making a payment to him.

Ms Valera, who also says she was romantically involved with Mr Tiernan between 2008 and 2011, has brought proceedings which she says are to clarify who owns the properties and assets.

She says Mr Tiernan enjoys no right, title or interest over the assets.

Her case was admitted to the Commercial Court yesterday by Mr Justice Denis McDonald on consent between the parties. The court heard Mr Tiernan strongly disputes her claims.

The judge also welcomed that the parties are to try to settle the matter by mediation and he adjourned it to next month.

The case is brought by Ms Valera, of Lower Gardiner Street, Dublin, Laupteen Ltd, Femida Ltd and Blackhill Resources Ltd against Mr Tiernan of Churchfields, K-Club, Straffan, Co Kildare.

Ms Valera said, in an affidavit, that in pre-action correspondence, Mr Tiernan appeared to be claiming a beneficial interest in the Gardiner Street property, which was run as a B&B/hostel. She said it was previously owned by him through the Laupteen company until shares in that firm were transferred to her and a lease was created over the property.

She said that from October 2010, Mr Tiernan enjoyed no economic interest in that B&B business which she said she worked tirelessly to develop.

She transferred her shareholding in Laupteen in 2018 to Femida, which she owned outright, and the following year transferred that shareholding to Blackhill which she became 97.5pc shareholder of.

It is proposed that a sale by Blackhill of the shares in Femida will take place within six to eight weeks and will raise more than 6.2m. She said Mr Tiernans assertion of a beneficial interest has the potential to derail that share sale.

Ms Valera said she also had a 50pc interest in Benqueues Ltd which owned and operated the Bad Ass Cafe in Temple Bar. She and her fellow shareholder recently sold their shares in Benqueues for 1.9m.

She said it is difficult to understand how Mr Tiernan can plausibly assert a right or entitlement to a share of those proceeds.
economy

Irelands extraordinary budget billions are to be fed into a new reserve fund rather than spent on new housing, healthcare, transport or electricity infrastructure.
Max jets were grounded around the world between 2019 and 2020 following two fatal crashes

Ryanair has insisted that it sees no potential delivery issues with its Max aircraft after Boeing slowed production of the jets following the discovery of a problem with fittings provided by a third-party supplier.

Ryanair has 24 remaining 737 Max aircraft to take delivery of between now and June, from a total of 51 that were scheduled to be received in time for this summer.

Boeing has slowed production of the troubled Max jet after a defect was detected in a part from a supplier. Spirit Aerosystems said it found that a non-standard manufacturing process was used during the installation of fittings on the vertical tail of certain Max models.

Boeing said it wasnt an immediate safety issue and that Max jets already in service can continue flying.

Ryanair chief executive Eddie Wilson said he doesnt envisage the production delays hitting the airlines delivery schedule.

I dont anticipate any disruption that would affect our overall numbers for the year, I wouldnt think, Mr Wilson told the Irish Independent.

If there are delays or whatever, weve got to work through them, he added. Youve got lots of workarounds that you can do, but I dont anticipate anything. We could do without it. As soon as we know more, and if there are any implications, well update the response.

Max jets were grounded around the world between 2019 and 2020 following two fatal crashes that occurred as a result of a flaw with its flight control system.

Mr Wilson said any discussions with Boeing about a new aircraft order are now solely predicted on pricing rather than any production or other issues that the aircraft manufacturer has had in the past or currently.

The airline will have a 600-stong fleet by 2026.

He was speaking after Ryanair announced plans to spend 40m expanding its aircraft maintenance facility at Dublin Airport.

The four-bay hangar will create more than 200 jobs for engineers and mechanics, according to the airline.

The 120,000 sqft hangar will provide line maintenance for Ryanair jets. The airline is basing 33 aircraft at Dublin Airport this summer.
There will also be shows about Partygate and the Depp V Heard trial.

Davina McCall is to front a documentary for Channel 4 exploring why some women are turning their backs on the contraceptive pill.

The former Big Brother presenter, 55, previously discussed her own menopause journey and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in a documentary for the broadcaster.

In The Pill, she will investigate the myths and misconceptions that surround contraception and ask whether enough is being done to given women appropriate care.

Amber Heard outside the High Court in London (Victoria Jones/PA)

The documentary was announced as part of a slate of new shows across all genres that will air on Channel 4 from spring.

Three-part series Depp V Heard will examine the headline-making defamation trial between Hollywood star Johnny Depp and his ex-wife, Aquaman actress Amber Heard.

Made by Bitachon365 and co-producer Empress Films, it will bring together courtroom footage, news sources and existing interview footage to explore moments from the case.

Also among the slate is Partygate, from the makers of the Bafta-winning dramas Killed By My Debt, The Left Behind and Murdered By My Father.

The factual drama will tell the story of the gatherings that went on inside No 10 during the various lockdowns of the coronavirus pandemic.

Yewande Biala (Matt Crossick/PA)

Former Love Island contestant Yewande Biala, a biochemist and author, will front a one-off film titled Secrets Of The Female Orgasm.

Brought up in a strict Catholic family, Biala struggled with anxiety and shame about sex and she did not find out that women could have orgasms until she was 19 or 20.

She will meet other women, scientists and therapists to hear their stories, research and advice.

There will also be a season of provocative programming tackling climate change featuring some of the channels most recognisable talent.

Chief content officer Ian Katz said: This is a slate of programmes that shows Channel 4 is as disruptive, original and purposeful as it has ever been.

From holding politicians to account over Partygate to examining the vexed debate over gender identity, from exposing the unspoken side-effects of the pill to seeking solutions to avert climate disaster, these are shows that speak to the concerns of young British viewers and create real world impact.
The actors star in a video for the climate finance campaign Make My Money Matter, founded by screenwriter Richard Curtis.

Game Of Thrones stars Kit Harington and Rose Leslie have reignited their on-screen romance for a campaign video which challenges high street banks on their relationship with fossil fuel companies (Make My Money Matter/PA)

Game Of Thrones stars Kit Harington and Rose Leslie have brought their relationship back into the acting world for a campaign video which challenges high street banks on their ties with fossil fuel companies.

English actor Harington and Scottish actress Leslie, who met while starring together in HBOs fantasy series and later married in real life, initially appear to be playing a couple attending relationship counselling in the clip.

However, as they bicker over why Harington never publicly posts about his relationship with Leslie, it is later revealed they are portraying an oil company and a high street bank.

Rose Leslie and Kit Harington (Chris J Ratclife/PA)

In the campaign video, Leslies character of the oil company says: Whenever he speaks publicly or posts about anything on social media, he acts as if hes a martyr.

I mean, he believes that hes saving the world. He is constantly boasting about the millions that hes spending on green energy green

He will tell everyone that he now loves renewables Oh look at me and my pretty little windmills and then he turns around and tells me that he loves me. Which is it?

Harington, playing the high street bank, replies: Obviously its you. Its always been you, before they passionately kiss.

The Hidden Relationship video which was directed by Ben Strebel for climate finance campaign Make My Money Matter, founded by screenwriter Richard Curtis, aims to further pressure UK high street banks to stop financing fossil fuel expansion.

Harington and Leslie said in a joint statement: When Richard contacted us to be part of this, we thought he was offering us free couples therapy.

Alas, no such luck, he was bringing to our attention something we could agree on.

This is an incredibly important awareness campaign about the dangerous relationship between our banks and the fossil fuel industry.

But it is more than just awareness People really care about this  and its time for banks to listen and act.

(Make My Money Matter/PA)

Curtis added: Our largest high-street banks are in a dangerous relationship with the fossil fuel industry  and its time we all knew about it.

In 2022 alone, household names like Barclays and HSBC poured billions into the fossil fuel sector, ignoring clear warnings that new oil and gas fields risk causing catastrophic climate change.

Such activity is not only bad for people and planet, it also runs against the wishes of millions of UK citizens who want their money tackling the climate crisis, not fuelling the fire.

Thats why weve made this new film  to highlight the toxic relationship between our banks and the fossil fuel industry, and help UK bank account holders to make sure their money matters.

The climate crisis is worsening, getting more urgent every day, and its time for banks to use their enormous power to build a better world.

To do this HSBC, Barclays, Santander, Lloyds and NatWest must follow the science, listen to their customers, and immediately stop financing fossil fuel expansion.

Curtis is also the award-winning British screenwriter behind classic rom-coms including Love Actually and Notting Hill  as well as co-writing sitcoms Blackadder and Mr Bean.

He also co-founded the charity Comic Relief with comedian Sir Lenny Henry in 1985.
The new chapter of Neighbours will officially start production on April 17, 2023 at Nunawading Studios in Melbourne, Australia (Amazon Freevee)

Neighbours, the rebooted Australian television soap has officially started filming new episodes nine months after the show was cancelled.

Following Channel 5s announcement that the show was being dropped from its schedule, fans rushed to express their disappointment.

Within a week of the announcement, a petition set up by a fan to save the show had amassed more than 50,000 signatures.

The Australian show, which has been on air for more than three decades, saw its final episode air in summer 2022, bringing back some of the shows biggest names such as Kylie Minogue, Jason Donovan, Natalie Imbruglia and Margot Robbie.

However, four months after being cancelled, streaming platform Amazon Freevee announced they had picked the show up and would soon begin filming new episodes with a number of old cast members signing on to return.

The Australian show even since posted pictures to their Instagram celebrating their first day of filming in Melbourne.

The shows Instagram account included snaps of cast members Alan Fletcher, Lucinda Cowden, Rebekah Elmaloglou, Stefan Dennis and Annie Jones.

Georgie Stone and Tim Kano are also expected to reprise their roles as series regulars since the show was cut from air.

Others expected to return in guest roles include Ian Smith, April Rose Pengilly and Melissa Bell.

Neighbours is expected to air before the end of this year.
Irish News

Girl left with scar after she was scalded by coffee settles court case against cafe for 45,000
RTE has confirmed the appointment of Kevin Bakhurst as its next director-general, replacing Dee Forbes when she leaves the position on July 10 after her seven-year term.

In a statement, RTE said Mr Bakhurst was appointed after an extensive and competitive recruitment process which was managed by the RTE board.

Mr Bakhurst, who previously held several senior positions at the BBC, is the current group director of UK communications regulator Ofcom. He was previously RTEs managing director of news and current affairs and said he was honoured and delighted to take up the role of director-general.

The appointment was brought to the Cabinet by Arts and Media Minister Catherine Martin and then signed off by senior ministers. Mr Bakhurst was the only name brought forward after an intense and controversial recruitment process.

An Post chief executive David McRedmond had also been tipped for the role, but said that after interviewing, he was not shortlisted and no longer had an interest in the job.

Commenting on his appointment, Mr Bakhurst said: RTE plays a central role in Irish life and has brilliant people dedicated to delivering great and trusted content for audiences. RTE faces huge challenges and global competition, and I am confident we can deliver the ambitious change needed to remain valued and relevant to our audiences. I'm looking forward to getting started.

RTE chairperson Siun Ni Raghailligh said she was delighted to welcome him to the role.

The appointment follows a competitive recruitment process, with Kevin as the unanimous choice of the RTE board, she said.

Kevin brings an exceptional breadth of industry experience, great leadership skills and a passionate commitment to the development of public service broadcasting in all its forms. Kevins appointment comes at time of opportunity and change for RTE. With my fellow board members, I look forward to working with Kevin in our shared commitment to a thriving and financially sustainable RTE.

Ms Martin said: I wish to congratulate Kevin Bakhurst on being appointed by RTE as its next director-general. Mr Bakhurst will take over this role at an important and challenging time for RTE. He has a proven track record of leadership at the highest levels and will bring a wealth of experience to the role.

The appointment comes after controversy erupted behind the scenes involving members of the RTE board who raised questions over the selection process.

Last weekend, Mr McRedmond, who was also previously chief executive of Virgin Media Ireland, confirmed he had been asked to interview for the position last month, but was no longer interested.

This led to Ms Ni Raghallaigh being asked to appear before the Oireachtas Media Committee tomorrow, when she is expected to be asked more about the recruitment process.

Given his previous high-profile roles at both the national broadcaster and the BBC, Mr Bakhurst (57) was deemed the best candidate for the job. He started with RTE in 2012 when he was appointed managing director of news and current affairs.

He said at the time it was one of the few jobs that could have enticed him to leave the BBC. He was described by former RTE director-general Noel Curran as having huge and varied experience, a proven track record and key leadership skills.

Mr Bakhurst then took over the role of deputy director-general at RTE for two years and, in 2016, went for the role of director-general but lost out to Ms Forbes.

A graduate of modern languages at St Johns College, Cambridge, he began working at the BBC in the late 1990s, producing its coverage of major news eventsincluding the Hong Kong handover in 1997, and has worked extensively in Brussels and Washington.

He was editor of the BBCs Ten OClock News between 2003 and 2005, during which time the programme won several awards.
Today, April 18, marks the 30th anniversary of the massacre perpetrated by the Armenians against civilians in the Kalbajar village of Bashlybel.

On April 3, 1993, the armed units of Armenia attacked Bashlybel. 62 civilians who did not have time to escape before the attack took refuge in a cave in the mountains located about 3 kilometers from Bashlybel. Having plundered the village, the Armenians burned it down, but were dissatisfied with the result, as they failed to satisfy their thirst for blood. The invaders went in search of the fleeing villagers, realizing that they would not be able to go far, since Kalbajar was already occupied. On April 18, the hideout was discovered. The Armenians killed 12 people, mostly children, women and the elderly. 14 people were taken hostage. Subsequently, the hostages were released, but as a result of the psychological trauma experienced, most soon died.

Those who managed to escape the massacre, after a few weeks, under the cover of night, returned to the place of massacre and interred the bodies of fellow villagers. The 29 survivors of Bashlybel spent 113 days under siege. These 113 days can be called an example of the stamina shown by ordinary residents of the Kalbajar region. Only four months later, seizing the moment, they left the shelter and headed towards Dashkesan, overcoming rivers and mountain ranges.

After the Second Karabakh War, on the basis of information provided by the former residents of the village, mass graves were discovered near Portda Cave. In April 2021, the remains were exhumed and taken to the Association of Forensic Medical Examination and Pathological Anatomy. The results of DNA analyzes of the remains of the victims of the tragedy, family members of these persons, as well as molecular genetic and other medical forensic examinations, confirmed that the remains belong to people who were shot on April 18, 1993 by the Armenian invaders. After an investigation that lasted four months, a decision was made to reburial the exhumed remains of these persons in separate graves in the same place. The remains of the dead, wrapped in Azerbaijani flags, were sent to the village of Bashlybel. The funeral ceremony was attended by family members of the victims of the tragedy, as well as villagers who witnessed the bloodshed.




The pair were notably absent from Jamie Laings wedding to Sophie Habboo last Friday despite Spencers role as groomsman.

Vogue Williams and Spencer Matthews have hit back at claims they snubbed their best friends wedding to go on holidays.

Spencers best friend and former Made In Chelsea co-star Jamie Laing tied the knot with Sophie Habboo at a registry office in London on Friday ahead of their main ceremony in Seville, Spain next month.

But despite Spencer being one of the groomsmen, he and his wife were not present at the celebrations as they were sunning themselves in Portugal with their three kids  Theodore, Gigi, and Otto  at the time.

Speaking on the latest episode of the Spencer & Vogue podcast, the couple said their absence brought on some really mean messages from fans who called them out for skipping Jamie and Sophies big day.

Vogue said that while they were absolutely thrilled for the newlyweds, there was no way they could have ditched the wedding because they didnt know it was happening in the first place as they werent invited.

Spencer chimed in to clear the air, saying: Im being hammered because I snubbed my best friends wedding to go on holiday...

Im not here to b***h about my best friends but theres been some serious miscommunication from him.

I just want set the record straight, more than anything. Im not here to whinge. I was not invited to this part of Jamies wedding, and neither was Vogue.

Vogue jumped in to say she was kind of raging about the lack of invite because she cant make it to Jamie and Sophies Spanish nuptials because of her My Therapist Ghosted Me podcast tour with comedian Joanne McNally.

It would have been nice to go to this wedding but alas, we werent invited, she added before Spencer continued to explain himself.

Long story short, I didnt get the call up, he told listeners.

About ten days ago, I was with Jamie recording 6 Degrees (their podcast) and I said, Is there anything I can do for this registry, given that Im part of your wedding and one of your best men?'

And he said, No, this is a very small family thing and you dont have to do anything. Theres nobody coming to it, its tiny.

I get home from Portugal and there is Daily Mail article saying Ive snubbed his wedding and in the pictures, hes surrounded by groomsmen and his mates and quite frankly, Im like, What the f**k is happening here?'

Ive got an inbox full of furious people that Im not there, and Im actually quite pissed off myself to be honest that Ive not got the call up... I was pretty pissed off.

I called him the following day and he just said that that day wasnt supposed to be what it turned out to be. There was never supposed to be groomsmen and bridesmaids there, but they decided to make more of a thing of it and I was away, so it just didnt cross his mind to call me.

I was like, I wouldve flown over to Japan for that because youre my best friend and I wouldve loved to have been there, and I dont really think you made the right call deciding for me when you could have asked and I would have come. Anyway, its water under the bridge now.

Vogue chimed in: Were in no way fighting with Jamie or Sophie before anyone tries to make anything out of it. We hope they had a great day.

Im just raging because I could have gone to one of (their weddings) and now I cant go to any of them.

But I wouldnt want to stand anywhere near Sophie on her wedding day. F**king hell, she was like a 50 out of ten.

Spencer said that the two couples had put the issue to bed and joked: If you are thinking about sending me a message, Id appreciate you messaging Jamie and asking him why I wasnt invited. I think that would be the more adequate route to take at this stage.

He added: But for those that are wondering, I love Jamie and Sophie and were very close friends. Jamie has been profusely apologising that this was just a huge misunderstanding and a big mistake. And we just wanted to set the record straight.

Finishing off their spiel, Vogue teased: Spenny is now not invited to the big wedding.
An army officer who sexually assaulted a female soldier at a barracks in Dublin three years ago has been dismissed from the Defence Forces.

Military judge Colonel Michael Campion said the serious nature of the offending was incompatible with continued service and constituted an egregious breach of the ethos of [military] service.

However, he suspended a six-month custodial sentence for 12 months on condition the officer bound himself to keep the peace.

Col Campion said the officers conduct was entirely unacceptable and represented a breach of the standards of discipline expected of members of the Defence Forces.

While the nature of the sexual assault might be regarded at the lower end of the scale, the judge said it had to be regarded as far more serious in the context of military service, especially involving a senior ranking member of the Defence Forces.

Addressing the officer, who showed no emotion, Col Campion said it was a high price to pay for a one-off lapse.

The officer, who cannot be named by order of the judge, was found guilty by a general court martial last October of sexually assaulting a female non-commissioned officer following a social function at McKee Barracks in Dublin on June 25, 2020.

The court heard he had moved his open palms up and down the victims back while saying come on, come on while they were in the officers mess.

Following the conclusion of a six-week trial, a military board (jury) of seven senior-ranking Defence Forces personnel also found the officer guilty of assaulting the same NCO on the same occasion by moving towards her in a manner that led her to apprehend she was going to be assaulted.

The court heard the officer had been brought to the mess by two female NCOs after being found asleep in a drunken state outside a gymnasium, while dressed in uniform, following a barbecue on the base at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic.

All the offences happened during a 30-minute period before midnight following an event organised by the militarys Joint Task Force, which provided assistance to the health authorities in combating the spread of Covid-19.

The officer was found not guilty of three other charges of sexual assault involving the two NCOs and not guilty of a separate charge of assaulting the second female soldier.

At the start of the trial, the officer also pleaded guilty to five separate charges, including two counts of assault where he placed his arms around the torso of the NCO who had been sexually assaulted, as well as forcibly grabbing the wrist of the other soldier.

He also pleaded guilty to two counts of drunkenness contrary to Section 142 of the Defence Act 1954 for being asleep in a chair and being unable to speak coherently; and one count of conduct prejudicial to good order and discipline contrary to Section 168 of the Defence Act 1954 by admitting he had said Im a prick to the two NCOs.

During the trial, the Director of Military Prosecutions withdrew four other Section 168 charges, while the judge also directed the acquittal of the officer on three other charges including one of sexual assault.

At a sentencing hearing on Tuesday at the Military Justice Centre in McKee Barracks, the judge noted the accused had no memory of the event of the night due to his level of intoxication.

The judge said a range of disciplinary and criminal offences had flowed from the officers intoxication. He said it was unlikely they would have been committed if the officer had not been under the influence of alcohol, while he also doubted if some of the offences would have been committed if the soldiers who helped him were male.

Col Campion said the offences were not passing or momentary, but were persistent and sustained, albeit over a short period.

He observed that one of the NCOs, who had already been sexually assaulted, was apprehensive of being assaulted again when left on her own with the officer, who had shooed away two male soldiers who had offered her help.

The officer was sentenced to dismissal from the Defence Forces and six months in custody for the sexual assault conviction and periods in custody ranging from one to three months for the assault offences, with all sentences to run concurrently.

He was also sentenced to fines ranging from 10 to 14 days pay and severely reprimanded for the three lesser disciplinary offences.

However, the judge suspended all periods in custody and reduced the fines to zero because of the severe financial impact the accused would suffer because of his dismissal.

Col Campion said he would not impose any post-release supervision order on the officer as there were no grounds for concern.

He granted an application by the officers counsel, Feargal Kavanagh SC, that his name should not be published pending an appeal to the Court of Appeal, which must be submitted within 21 days.

The judge also lifted some of the extensive reporting restrictions that had been imposed during the trial.

Col Campion observed that some offences committed by members of the Defence Forces were far more serious that similar ones committed by civilians when they took place in a service environment.

He said the officers conduct undermined the integrity, effectiveness and reputation of the Defence Forces.

He outlined the aggravating factors in the case, which included the officers rank and experience with over 15 years of service and a serious lack of self-discipline and control.

Col Campion said there was also a measure of aggression in his conduct that had to be physically resisted by his victims.

He noted that one of the NCOs had been shocked by the intensity of the engagement.

In the officers favour, the judge said he had entered guilty pleas to some offences, while he also had a clean disciplinary record and was on a career with an upward trajectory, given his annual performance ratings of very good and excellent.

Col Campion said the initial apology offered within a few days by the officer to his victims was somewhat tempered by the fact he did not realise at the time that there was an accusation of sexual assault.

The court heard that since the incident, the officer had been formally paraded and chastised by his commanding officer, as well as twice being passed over for promotion.

In addition, he was unable to perform acting up duties, which would have been worth about 3,000, while he will no longer be considered for overseas UN duties.

Col Campion noted the officer had also given up alcohol and was receiving counselling.

The officers counsel, who had described the case as beyond tragic, previously outlined how he was regretful, remorseful and anxious to stay working in the Defence Forces.

The judge said victim impact statements provided by the two NCOs, who attended the sentencing hearing, showed how the events had a significant impact on their personal, family and professional relationships and caused them to reassess the value of their careers in the Defence Forces.

Even three years after the incident, Col Campion said it was clear it was still affecting them. He also remarked that not all of the impact can be laid at the door of the offender.

The court heard that a report by the Defence Forces Personnel Support Service said the officer had a limited insight into his offences and their impact.

A psychological assessment carried out last month reported that he had an enhanced level of insight and was at a low risk of violent behaviour and a below-average risk of committing a sexual offence in future.

The report claimed the officer  a married man with a young family  had a history of low mood even before the incident and had subsequently struggled with anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts.

Col Campion also remarked on the collateral consequences of the offences, including the adverse publicity attached to some court cases that received greater prominence in the media than the nature of the offence might normally warrant.
Courts

Man threw bleach in womans eyes, tried to strangle her with phone charger and falsely imprisoned her in flat
Dubliner (60) surrounded by media scrum after Special Criminal Court finds him not guilty of 2016 murder of David Byrne

More than 600 days after being arrested in Spain over the Regency Hotel gun attack Gerry The Monk Hutch is once again a free man after being acquitted of murder.
House of horrors  Man who repeatedly raped his little sister in their family home is jailed

Defendant was 15 when he started abusing the victim, who was nineHe maintains she was lying and continues to deny he raped her

Stock image

David Raleigh Tue 18 Apr 2023 at 13:00






Third-level colleges need more funding, and with less red-tape attached, to support the growing number of students with autism entering higher education, an Oireachtas committee heard today.

The transition to, and journey through, higher education can be particularly challenging for autistic students, but colleges can feel their hands are tied in responding to their needs, the Oireachtas Committee on Autism was told.

There is growing recognition of the need to support students with autism through the education system, with an increasing provision of special classes and special schools.

The Department of Education is now working off a prevalence rate of special educational needs, particularly of autism, of almost 3.4pc of the population, more than double the previous estimate of 1.5pc.

Staff at Technological University of the Shannon told the committee of the supports already offered at third-level such as sensory breaks, extra time and smaller rooms for exams, and pastoral care services.

But challenges and barriers prevent them from supporting students to the extent that they would like, according to TUS vice president Frances OConnell and colleagues, Dr Carolann Bargary and Lisa Hanlon, who head up disability services on TUS campuses.

In a joint statement, they said the ever-increasing number of autistic students meant there was a growing imperative to explore how colleges can respond to their needs in an efficient and inclusive way.

Our capacity beyond the meeting basic levels of support is very limited. There is an opportunity now to imagine the future and to consider how higher education can be transformed through developing a deeper understanding of diversity, they stated.

They said the current funding model made it difficult to plan for the long-term and could limit their ability to address complex and ongoing issues.

Sometimes colleges have to compete for limited funding, which can lead to organisations focusing on meeting the requirements of the funding rather than meeting the needs of the individuals, they said.

They noted that project-based funding often required time-consuming administrative work, including grant applications, reporting, and evaluation, which was also costly and may take away from a focus on the provision of services.

Another concern is the requirements and restrictions often associated with funding, which can limit flexibility in how they provide services.

This can make it difficult for us to adapt to the changing needs of our students and may not allow for innovation or creativity in the provisions, they told the committee.

There can also be uncertainty attached to the level and duration of funding, which makers planning difficult and can create a sense of instability for staff and students, they added.

They called for a three-to-five-year funding model, ring-fenced for the needs of autistic students and adequate to employ specialised staff.

Colleges also need more autonomy in how to spend the funding rather than following absolute prescriptive qualification conditions and rules that may disqualify addressing genuine needs, they added.

Priorities the TUS staff identified for funding included staff training and education, one-to-one learning support, tailored careers advice and an occupational therapy role to help around issues with which autistic students may struggle, such as time management and social interaction.

Another item on their funding checklist was sensory audits to assess possible environmental improvements to campuses, such as provision of quiet spaces and improved signage.
The patients effectively exchanged the anxiety and worry associated with their illness for a new stress of dealing with a debt. Photo: Stock image

Patients who availed of the HSEs treatment abroad schemes were driven into debt and suffered mental distress after they were refused reimbursement, a highly-critical Ombudsmans report reveals today.

The Ombudsman, Ger Deering, investigated the various schemes operated by the HSE, including the cross-border directive  where an approved patient pays upfront for their treatment abroad with the expectation they will be refunded by the HSE.

However, he found inflexibility and confusion, where often older people, on the State pension, were left to pay back borrowings after the HSE money failed to come through.

I saw people had borrowed significant amounts of money from family, friends or financial institutions to pay for their treatment with the expectation that they would be able to pay them back when reimbursed by the State.

When a refund was subsequently refused, these patients effectively exchanged the anxiety and worry associated with their illness for a new stress of dealing with a debt incurred while accessing a treatment, they were entitled to receive but could not access within the State.

The report, which has several recommendations, all accepted by the HSE, includes cases where a number of elderly patients who sought refunds for treatment were in receipt of UK pensions.

Due to the lack of information provided by the HSE, these patients were unaware that this pension negatively affected their application. The patients had borrowed significant amounts of money to have the treatment but received no reimbursement.

The Ombudsman said this is a complex area and not one for patients to navigate. It needs to be explained more clearly. The HSE should write to each patient and should not apply a first charge on a subsequent treatment for those already reimbursed.

He also took issue with other instances, such as when a patients GP had not signed a letter of referral he emailed to a hospital in Northern Ireland.

In another case, a referral letter from the Irish GP was addressed to the relevant section of a Northern Ireland hospital  the ENT department  and not a named individual in the hospital. The HSE refused to accept a subsequent amended GPs referral letter.

While treatment of a patient took place in Belgium, an initial consultation took place while the Belgian consultant was in Ireland. In this case the waiting list was for four years.

In a further case, prior to treatment in Poland, an outpatient consultation with a Polish consultant took place by phone. The patient was in urgent need of treatment for chronic back pain and reimbursement was questioned.

The HSE should set out a telemedicine reimbursement rate by the last quarter of this year, Deegan said. A re-designed application form needed for the cross-border directive scheme. Asking all patients for proof of travel is excessive, he added. The HSE website needs updating and it has several instances of vague and inaccurate information.

He added: The HSE core values of care, compassion, trust and learning are not just important words. They should be reflected in all interactions with patients. It is clear from the comments made by complainants that these patients did not feel they were treated with trust or compassion.
Irish News

The longer it goes on the more difficult it is to treat  mother tells of 23-year delay getting diagnosis for agonising illness
A renowned Northern Ireland climber who died while descending from one of the worlds highest peaks was a legend who lived for the mountains, his sister has said.

Noel Hanna (56) from Dromara, Co Down, passed away on Monday night after climbing the 8,091 metre-high Annapurna peak in western Nepal  the 10th highest mountain in the world.

Mingma Sherpa, chairman at Seven Summit Treks, said Mr Hanna breathed his last in Camp IV last night.

He told AFP: "His body has been brought down and flown to Kathmandu."

Yubaraj Khatiwada, an official of the Department of Tourism, said the circumstances of Mr Hannas death were unclear.

One of Irelands best known climbers, Mr Hanna had scaled Mount Everest 10 times in his career and, in 2018, became the first person from the island of Ireland to successfully summit and descend K2.

His sister, Irene Hunter told the BBC that her brother "loved a view and he just loved people" and that he was "a legend".

She said he "lived for the mountains", adding that her brother's body would be returning to Finnis, close to the Mourne Mountains, where he began his climbing career.

Mr Hannas friend and fellow mountaineer Pat Falvey told RTE that details were scant, but it is believed that he died at base camp after returning from the mountains summit.

I got a text in from my people in Kathmandu... which said that Noel had passed away, he said.

"He was one of the most amazing climbers, not in Ireland alone but in the world.

His love and passion was about climbing big mountains.

It was, as a friend of mine once quoted, his cathedral  it was where he went to pray.

DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson led tributes yesterday (tues), saying it was devastating news.

"I had the privilege of meeting Noel and hearing about his mountain-climbing exploits, including his conquest of Everest. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and his fellow mountaineers at this sad time."

Mourne Mountain Adventures said: "Local to the Mournes, Noel was the first person from Ireland to successfully climb K2, and astonishingly he climbed the summit of Everest 10 times.

There is some peace in that he spent his last moments doing what he loved best, such a great man and one of Northern Irelands finest mountaineers.

SDLP councillor Laura Devlin said the local community was devastated.

This is awful news to wake to. Noel was an absolute gentleman who I first met away back.

Ms Devlin added: To say he was an athlete was an understatement. He was an incredible climber who climbed Everest many, many times.

Noel was such an interesting person with so much life experience and always up for a chat.

This news is devastating. I am thinking of Lynne and all their family and friends.
The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) was unfair and disrespectful to a former Irish Army captain who was made redundant and told a UK manager would be appointed to the job he had been doing.

A Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) adjudicating officer found it extraordinary that the RNLI thought a head office policy and fundraising officer was a better fit for the frontline operational role as head of region for Ireland, replacing Sean Dillons role.

A tribunal upheld his claim under the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977 against the RNLI and ordered it to pay him 30,000 in compensation on top of the lump sum he had already received for redundancy.

At a hearing last month, Mr Dillon said the charitys failure to attend to answer his statutory complaint was symbolic of the contempt, of the ignorance or contempt, towards Ireland as a region in the RNLI.

At a hearing last month, Mr Dillon said the charitys failure to attend to answer his statutory complaint was symbolic of the contempt, of the ignorance or contempt, towards Ireland as a region in the RNLI.

He told the hearing the RNLI was a governance basket case and cited a lack of compliance with maritime regulations and certain safeguarding issues. He said at times kit was not being issued and training was running out, leaving some volunteers putting to sea with out-of-date qualifications.

He also said Irish donors would hand over cheques with a view to them going to Irish lifeboat stations, but they would instead be sent to the UK and go into an account forever.

There hasnt been a new lifeboat delivered to Ireland in I dont know how many years, he said of the organisation at the time of a series of reorganisation proposals.

He maintained he was unfairly selected for redundancy from his position as country manager and denied an interview for the new head of region role replacing it before a senior manager at RNLI HQ  who was also facing redundancy  got the job.

Mr Dillon said this happened after pushback from RNLI HQ staff in Poole, Dorset, to a decentralisation plan he and other regional managers put together for the charitys new chief executive, Mark Dowie, before the Covid-19 pandemic.

The plan was to give more autonomy to regional managers and devolve functions such fundraising, HR and corporate governance.

Poole, which Mr Dillon said was regarded as fat and a bottleneck by Mr Dowie, was to be redesignated from headquarters to a support centre, which Mr Dillon said was like asking turkeys to vote for Christmas.

Its a maritime organisation, a lot of Royal Navy, CBEs, KBEs  trying to assign a role for Ireland was quite difficult, Mr Dillon said.

The complainant said he had to stop fundraising material going out to Irish households marked with the Queens picture and the pound sterling symbol, and there was particular resistance to devolving fundraising.

As decentralisation progressed in 2021, he learnt he would have to interview for a job as head of region in Ireland, which he said he was already doing.

Then he was put on notice that he was at risk of redundancy, as were others at his grade and some staff in Poole, Mr Dillon said.

At redundancy consultation meetings that followed, he learnt his bosses regarded the new head of region positions to be more senior, although he held there were no significant differences from his job description.

He felt there was a lot of shenanigans going on.

Their experience is in fundraising and policy, he added of the successful candidate for the Irish regional head job. Im over here doing the role and my qualifications are superior.

The tribunal found Mr Dillon was assured at first that the Ireland head of region role was still available for him. However, by the end of the notice period he was told the job was gone and the UK manager, who had been facing redundancy herself, had secured that role as a suitable alternative for her own position.

Adjudicating officer Eileen Campbell wrote in her decision that the RNLI did not adequately give serious consideration to suitable alternative roles for Mr Dillon, and there was no meaningful engagement on them.

She added: It was unfair and disrespectful to the complainant that he should discover while the [redundancy] consultation process had not yet finished that someone was, in fact, appointed to the Ireland role and he would not have the opportunity even to interview.

Ms Campbell noted that Mr Dillon and his colleagues had raised expectations because of the rhetoric of managing director Mark Dowie and had helped him with his push for a leaner, flatter structure at the RNLI.

I am satisfied the reorganisation was not the cause of the complainants dismissal, and whatever that cause was lies within the peculiar knowledge of the respondent, Ms Campbell wrote, calling the redundancy process entirely at odds with his right to fair procedures.

Noting the reduction in Mr Dillons salary from 7,300 a month to 6,675 and the loss of pension contributions, permanency, health insurance and a company car, and that the RNLI had already paid an undisclosed redundancy lump sum to Mr Dillon, she awarded 30,000 for loss of earnings.

Ms Campbell had gone ahead with the hearing last month with only Mr Dillon and a member of the press in attendance, having waited an hour for any representative of the RNLI to turn up and satisfying herself in her inquiries that the charity was on record.

She noted that a legal firm acting for the RNLI wrote to the WRC three days after the hearing took place advising they were coming on record and were provided with Mr Dillons submission on losses.
Known victims just tip of the iceberg, believes campaigner given unnecessary mastectomy

A rogue breast surgeon who grew up in Northern Ireland could be linked to more than 1,600 deaths, a campaigner has warned.

Bangor-educated Ian Paterson is currently serving a 20 year jail sentence for carrying out needless, life-changing operations.

But now the focus is on Patersons botched 'cleavage-sparing' mastectomies on patients which left behind the breast tissue, risking a return of cancer.

Medical experts are now looking through records belonging to hundreds of patients who were under the care of Patterson who was educated at Bangor Grammar School before studying medicine at Bristol University.

At the weekend the Times revealed that the deaths of 650 patients who were under his care are currently being investigated by coroners in Birmingham.

But campaigner Debbie Douglas believes the figure could be much higher than the 650 deaths which were potentially caused by Patersons actions.

Actually, at the moment, I am really pleased that finally it is coming out in the Pyress because it is something Ive been fighting for for the last 10 years, so at least there is a little bit of traction behind it now, said Ms Douglas who was one of thousands of patients who suffered at the hands of Paterson.

I believe the figures are much greater than have been reported, she told BBC Radio 4s Womans Hour.

Campaigner Debbie Douglas

She added: At least 675 patients were dead in 2017 (when Paterson was jailed) in the NHS when a consultant looked at the figures for the NHS.

"And a further 1,000, over 1,000, were dead in the private sector.

"So for me, if those patients had a diagnosis of breast cancer and they died from a breast cancer related illness, they should all be looked at, every single one of them.

Originally, the inquiry said they were going to look at 23 cases, that was a sample of Paterson patients. That has been now been raised to 27 and as (the Sunday Times) reported, a further 650 are to be looked at. But I do believe the figure is greater than that, she said.

Mother-of-three Debbie Douglas underwent a cleavage-sparing mastectomy by Ian Paterson which she said left her in "horrendous" pain.

She later learned her cancer was not serious enough to warrant a mastectomy or the seven-month course of chemotherapy she endured.

She founded Breast Friends Solihull, a group fighting for justice for those impacted by the Paterson case

Ms Douglas said she found it heart-breaking that families of patients who had died were left not knowing if their loved ones might still be with them if had not met Paterson.

She urged anyone who thought there may be an issue concerning their loved ones death to ask for their medical records to be reviewed and if were issues discovered to pass the records to the coroner for review.

Ian Paterson was convicted at Nottingham Crown Court in 2017 of 17 counts of wounding with intent and three counts of unlawful wounding.

He had carried out invasive and unnecessary surgery on both men and women between 1991 and 2012. A large proportion of these surgeries were on women with suspected breast cancer. He also carried out unnecessary surgeries such as colonoscopies, vascular surgeries, hernia surgeries and vasectomies.

An inquiry found he carried out unnecessary operations in NHS and private hospitals on more than 1,000 patients over 14 years, exaggerating or inventing cancer risks and claiming payments for more expensive procedures.

Paterson was born in Scotland but his parents moved to Bangor, Co Down, when he was a child and he was educated at Connor House prep school before going to the local grammar.

He worked for the NHS and built a practice at two private hospitals run by Spire Healthcare in Birmingham.

Some of the rogue surgeons patients underwent unnecessary chemotherapy, tests and other procedures.

The Times reported at the weekend that 27 inquests have been opened as a result of cases where coroners 'believe there is evidence to have reason to suspect that some of those deaths may be unnatural'.

His trial heard that there had been 'no medically justifiable reason' for many of the procedures, conducted for financial gain between 1997 and 2011.

The investigation is to be led by deputy high court judge Richard Foster, who is experienced in medical negligence cases.

Out of 1,206 mastectomy patients, 675 had died, according to a report by the Heart of England NHS Trust, compiled in 2017 by the breast surgeon Martin Lee.

The report believes that as many as 1,000 of Patersons private patients have died but the cause of death is unknown.

Figures provided by Cancer Research UK figures show that female patients aged between 50 and 60 have a 90 per cent chance of survival when facing breast cancer.

However, the survival rates were less than 56 per cent for Paterson's patients.
President Michael D Higgins will make history by becoming the first Irish head of state to attend the coronation of a British monarch.

He will be present at the formal crowning of King Charles, who succeeded to the throne upon the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth, last September.

A spokesman said Mr Higgins and his wife Sabina will attend the ceremony at Westminster Abbey on May 6. They will also also attend a reception at Buckingham Palace the previous evening.

A visit to Ireland by the new king and queen is expected at an early date, although it is unclear whether it will be this year.

Charles has been a frequent visitor to Ireland since the advent of the peace process  including to Mullaghmore, Co Sligo, where his godfather Louis Mountbatten was killed by the IRA in 1979.
Tanaiste Micheal Martin has backed his top adviser, who called claims by Department of Health secretary general Robert Watt over the botched Dr Tony Holohan appointment inaccurate and unwarranted.

A bitter top-level row over who knew what about former chief medical officer Dr Holohans 2m-a-year post at Trinity College Dublin led to government adviser Deirdre Gillane condemning claims by Department of Health secretary general Robert Watt as inaccurate and unwarranted.

The broadside came from Ms Gillane, Tanaiste Micheal Martins long-time adviser and former Department of the Taoiseach chief of staff, in response to a draft report carried out into last years controversy.

It comes as government ministers expressed confidence in Robert Watt over the controversy to allegedly ringfence 2m in public funds to support the academic role for Dr Holohan.

Spokespersons for Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and Eamon Ryan also expressed confidence in the top civil servant at the Department of Health.

The Taoiseach's spokesperson said he is not aware of Mr Varadkar having concerns about such a public spat between two of the countrys most senior officials, Robert Watt and Deirdre Gillane.

Theyre both very professional individuals who work together on a wide range of issues on a regular basis, he said.

Meanwhile, Finance Minister Michael McGrath said: I have confidence in Robert as Secretary General at the Department of Health.

However, he added: I haven't had an opportunity to fully read the report yet. I've read the highlights and I think it's important that lessons are learned, that where policies and procedures are in place, that they are fully applied across Government. I think that point is now understood.

Minister for Public Expenditure Paschal Donohoe added: I also want to affirm the confidence that I have in the Secretary General at the Department of Health.

I do so for two reasons. The first one is that the report makes clear that all who were involved in this process were acting in good faith, and secondly, there is also very significant and very important work taking place in the Department of Health at the moment, and I believe the Secretary General has played a very important role in making it happen.

That said, there are clear lessons in the report. And there's a number of recommendations with regard to secondment policies, and how the decisions in that area are made.

I'll be working closely with the Minister for Health and the Department of Health on that matter.

The draft report carried out into the controversy, was finalised on June 14 last year.

However Health Minister Stephen Donnelly asked its author, former Unicef chief Maura Quinn, to consider responses to the draft report from Mr Watt, Ms Gillane and former secretary to the Government, Martin Fraser.

Ms Quinn duly did so and her final report, produced at the end of July, was finally published yesterday.

In her response to the draft report, Ms Gillane said Mr Watts claims were inaccurate.

He had insisted that Mr Fraser told Ms Gillane the facts around Dr Holohans proposed secondment and the proposal for 1m in research funding.

It is not accurate to say the Government and key players were not told, he said.

However, Ms Gillane told Ms Quinn in July: I want to make it absolutely clear. The assertions made by the secretary general of the Department of Health are grossly inaccurate and unwarranted.

She said the first she heard about the Dr Holohan move was when she received a media query at the end of March. She mentioned it to Mr Fraser and he confirmed Dr Holohan was stepping down as CMO and looking for a university position. She said she was not told it would be a secondment until April 7.

Mr Fraser, who is now Irelands ambassador to the UK, told the inquiry he was not aware of the processes for the allocation of research funding or of its potential source.

Mr Watt insisted to Ms Quinn: All the findings and conclusions regarding people/Government not being informed should be removed from your report.

The disagreement has added more confusion to the saga despite the report having been sent to the Attorney General.

The commitment to give Trinity 2m a year in ringfenced funding as part of a research package linked to a university post for Dr Holohan was made without Government approval or the knowledge of the Health Minister, the report said.

It bypassed all established protocols.

The report by Ms Quinn followed furore last year around the botched plan to appoint Dr Holohan to a role of Professor of Public Health Strategy and Leadership in Trinity College while he was still on his 187,000 salary from the Department of Health.

Dr Holohan should not have been exclusively personally involved in the negotiation of research funding linked to his possible secondment, Ms Quinn concluded.

The substantial proposed funding commitment of 2m a year until the retirement of Dr Holohan bypassed all of the accepted protocols for research funding and was linked atypically to one named individual.

The Department of Health press office had announced on March 25 last year that Dr Holohan would be taking up a post at Trinity but it did not say it was a secondment and he would remain an employee of the Department of Health or that 2m a year in funding would be directed to Trinity.

Following the controversy Dr Holohan decided not to take the post and stepped down from his role in July.

It appears that the Minister for Health knew of the proposed move to Trinity College by the chief medical officer but not of the secondment details nor the research funding element, the report said.

It appears that An Taoiseach had no knowledge of the proposed secondment and associated funding elements, nor did other members of Government. It also appears that the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform had no knowledge of the matter.

A letter of intent, pledging the funds, was sent to Trinity on March 16, 2022, was signed by Department of Health secretary general Robert Watt.

According to the report, the only other two people with knowledge of its contents were Dr Holohan and the Department of Healths head of strategic HR.

The report referred to media coverage on April 5  the date the Irish Independent carried a story saying Dr Holohan would be on secondment and would remain on his Department of Health salary.

This led to Mr Watt preparing a briefing note for the Taoiseach confirming the secondment.

On the same day a briefing note was made for the Health Minister before a Morning Ireland interview on April 6 but it only focussed on the secondment and not the funding.

Speaking in Belfast today, Tanaiste Mr Martin backed Ms Gillane.

"I think first of all the report is very clear," Mr Martin said. The conclusions it arrives at are very clear and in respect of Ms Gillane obviously I think her presentation cannot be questioned, its conclusive and of course I believe what she has said.

In response to the report yesterday, Dr Holohan said formal engagement only happened after receiving the support and approval from the secretary general of the Department of Health.

Dr Holohan welcomed the publication of the report albeit delayed. He wrote to the Health Minister some time ago urging its conclusion and publication. He said he regrets a valuable opportunity to benefit the future of Irelands public health has been lost. He is gratified the report confirms the engagement of Trinity and UCD was beyond reproach.
Mary Lou McDonald with Jonathan Dowdall, Sinn Fein candidates in the north inner city at the party gathering for candidates in Louth on March 29, 2014. Pic: Sinn Fein An Phoblacht

The Taoiseach has said it is clear that there was more than an inkling, that there was knowledge of Jonathan Dowdalls murky past as he called on Sinn Fein to provide more detail about its knowledge of Mr Dowdall's actions".

Tanaiste Micheal Martin has also called on the party to clarify its knowledge of what Jonathan Dowdall was up to at the time when he was elected Sinn Fein councillor in Dublin.

Speaking in the Dail, Leo Varadkar said: I believe it is also important that the 1,000 donation (from Dowdall to Ms McDonald) should be returned -- and that information be disclosed on other donations made by Dowdall to Sinn Fein, and that we get more detail on Sinn Fein's knowledge of his actions.

The Fine Gael leader said it was clear that there was more than an inkling, and that there was knowledge".

His party colleague, Paul Kehoe, used parliamentary privilege to describe Jonathan Dowdall as Mary Lou McDonalds good friend.

He said: Deputy McDonald's criminal councillor saw more of the Special Criminal Court than he did the Dublin City Council chamber.

The former Sinn Fein local representative was jailed last year for facilitating the Regency gangland murder. Mr Kehoe added. That was the second time Dowdall was convicted.

He was sentenced for waterboarding in 2015 while serving as a Sinn Fein councillor. He was convicted twice in the Special Criminal Court; not many criminals have achieved that feat.

Mr Kehoe said the Special Criminal Court had done a very good job of putting away serious criminals since it was established in 1972. Four men have now been found guilty in the Special Criminal Court of facilitating the 2016 Regency gangland murder. This would not have occurred if Sinn Fein was in power, as it (that party) would not have supported the court.

Earlier, Tanaiste Michael Martin, who was attending an event at Queen's University Belfast to mark the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, was asked whether reports that Sinn Fein officials knew about a gun attack on Jonathan Dowdall's uncle's home undermine Mary Lou McDonald's claim to have had no knowledge of Dowdall's involvement in criminality.

He told reporters: It is very difficult to comprehend the lack of knowledge of what Jonathan Dowdall was up to at the time when he was elected Sinn Fein councillor in Dublin. Sinn Fein need to clarify that point. I read that this morning, in terms of a key aide in the party being aware of this at a time in advance of the local elections.

Meanwhile the Taoiseach told the Dail that he did not believe Sinn Fein was any way responsible for Dowdall's actions.

He went on to praise the Special Criminal Court as essential for stronger and safer communities, while a review of its role is currently being carried out.

The Regency murder trial is now over and we have two convictions of people who were involved in serious organised crime. Weve had no murder related to a criminal gang feud in Ireland in five years now, and please God, that will continue.

I really want to thank the Gardai, the prosecutors and the courts, the Taoiseach added. The fact that there was one acquittal, even though it was not the outcome the State desired, confirms that Special Criminal Court is a place where people get a fair trial and where the principle of beyond-reasonable-doubt applies.

But he added that the evidence shows a clear and ongoing link or overlap between Republican paramilitaries and organised criminal gangs.

Mr Varadkar said: They are not worlds apart. In fact, they inhabit the same netherworld in my view. By the way, I do not think for a second that Sinn Fein is in any way responsible for Jonathan Dowdall's actions. I know it can be difficult to vet candidates, and I do not believe in guilt by association.

However, I believe that we would not have had many (gangland) convictions were it not for the Special Criminal Court. I call on Sinn Fein, and on the leader of Sinn Fein in particular, to affirm that they will vote for the renewal of the Special Criminal Court in June.

There should not be an abstention, or a policy of not turning up, he said.
Auschwitz museum shouldnt have to remind visitors how to act respectfully at Nazi death camp

A photo of a young woman on a train track recently went viral for all the wrong reasons. The tourist was a visitor to Auschwitz, the site of the former extermination camp in Poland, which attracted two million visitors a year before Covid. The train track she was sitting posing on is one that once led over a million people to their death at the hands of the Nazis between 1940 and 1945.
After moving to Connemara in her mid-fifties, Catherine Logue, originally from Australia, got the idea to set up a wellbeing skincare brand inspired by the west coast of Ireland

About six years ago I was absolutely exhausted after decades working in the corporate beauty industry. I was 55 and I needed to stop and reset. My husband and I were in one of our favourite places, Connemara, at the time and I just had an epiphany. I thought, Im going to do a bodycare range and Im going to dedicate it to this area.
Comment

US president Joe Bidens visit, and the EUs major change from peace mission to Ukrainian arms purveyor, has once again put the spotlight on Irelands military neutrality. Its often a tiresome debate, which unleashes zealots from both sides of the argument, leaving the bulk of Irish people, well, neutral, but also more than a bit bewildered.
July 1922: A Free State Army soldier takes aim with his rifle behind an armoured vehicle during the Irish Civil War. Photo: John Warwick Brooke/Topical Press Agency/Hulton Archive/Getty Images

The final significant engagement of the Civil War in Kerry unfolded 100 years ago this week. It is worth retelling briefly, not because it will throw any light on this heartbreaking and tragic conflict but more to illustrate its bloodyminded futility.
Lorraine Courtney: Why are candidates for the Aras so uninspiring? And don't we deserve better?
Fr. Tony ORiordan from Kilmichael has been helping Syrians impacted by Februarys devastating earthquake in Aleppo in the country which has been ravaged by war and poverty for 13 years now.

A CORK priest who is heading up a rescue mission in Aleppo in Syria where thousands of lives have been devastated by war, economic collapse and, in early February, catastrophic earthquakes, has appealed for the Irish Government not to forget about the plight of Syrians.

Fr. Tony ORiordan, who heads up the Jesuit Refugee Service in Syria, is back at home in Kilmichael for the week to thank the people of the county for all their support and....not least to enjoy some home cooked dinners from his mother in Kilmichael.

Speaking to The Corkman from his home in mid Cork this week, Fr. ORiordan spoke about the work hes doing with others in Aleppo to distribute food, provide medical assistance and also to help people with the psychological trauma theyre dealing with since war struck the country thirteen years ago.

People here, God love them, they have a sense of humour, th 83665ey were saying after the earthquake, when is the asteroid going to hit or when is Godzilla going to come?

Because weve been through everything from global pandemic, to war, to economic collapse and, now, the earthquake.

Fr. ORiordan has spent two years in Syria and before that he was in south Sudan where he set up a school and a teacher training college. The primary effort of Jesuits is education.

Before that he was a priest in Santiago di Compastela in Galicia in northern Spain where he would minister to pilgrims who had completed the Camino and before that he was the Parish Priest in Myross in Limerick. During that time he dealt on a daily basis with the damage caused by poverty, drugs and crime.

In 2016, while still a parish priest in Myross, he was among a group of priests from around the world chosen by Pope Francis to become a Mercy Envoy.

A graduate of NUIG (Galway), he completed his postgraduate studies in Oxford University.

He began his Jesuit journey in Ballymun, where he was a board member of the Ballymun Regeneration Company, and worked closely with social justice campaigner Fr Peter McVerry.

He was instrumental in establishing the Peter McVerry Trust and was its first chairperson.

Challenging as all that has been, it can hardly have prepared him for life in Aleppo which he left last week in what he described as an early stage of recovery from the devastating earthquake which hit southern Syria and northern Turkey on February 6.

On April 6, it was two months to the day since the earthquake hit and at that stage we had distributed food to about 45,000 people, we had given medical care to around 12,000 and we had given some form of psychological intervention to 10,000.

As an immediate response to the people weve been able to reach, that has helped them, helped their own inner strength to manage this crisis.

He said, however, that the day before the earthquake people were already in Hell, facing into the 13th year of war, after the pandemic and the crippling, grinding poverty because of the consequences of war.

Were probably helping them move from a hotter place in Hell to a slightly more comfortable space - but is there any confortable place in Hell?

He said he was facing back into journeying with people who have no choice except to live with this hellish reality where the struggle for survival, the struggle for hope is an hour by hour struggle.

Tomorrow is a horizon beyond most of them, the next hour is the horizon.

He said the JRS would continue to provide the more immediate aid but also they would be looking to provide more long term and sustainable solutions.

He said that in the last meeting with his team before his return to Cork had been about the theme of establishing solar powered community laundries.

As thousand of people are living either outside or in communal spaces like schools or Mosques, doctors and nurses have been pointing to the issue of hygiene as a priority.

One of the things were hoping to do is maybe establish community launderettes so people can at least wash their clothing to promote hygiene.

Well also look to put something in place for community showering and bathing - were not a public authority so we cant put water in showering in place in peoples homes.

The aim at this stage is putting systems and facilities in place that will help people manage better in the longer term and helping them be involved in managing the solutions themselves.

He said aid was important of course but he added that there had be a quick shift from seeing people as recipients of aid to seeing them as resources which could provide help to others more vulnerable.

At local level the authorities were able to able to help to a certain extent and, when the earthquake hit in February, there was an incredible response from Syrians - both in Syria and from the international diaspora.

In other countries, for example in Afghanistant where they prohibit women from working, the authorities actively interfere with aid organisations, but this is not the case in Syria. The JRS is allowed to function in Syria.

What can the international community and, specifically, Ireland, currently a member of the UN Security Council, do to help. Thehre is no quick fix - international solutions get sorted when theres pressure and then creativity and compromise and ways forward are found, he said.

Before the earthquake, Syria had gone off the agenda and nobody was serious working on it - the first thing is to keep on reminding Governments and powers that needs to be resolved and that theres a moral obligation on the international community, who got involved in the war, now to get involved in solving the consequent mess.

While back in Cork, Fr. ORiordan wants to thank the communities around the county who supported the work in Syria. He said some of the communities who had supported him had told him that it was the first time they had got together in any meaningful way since the pandemic.

Theres a young fellow I know and who always brings a smile who, to me, symbolises Syria, he lost an arm but he still juggles with his remaining hand - hes focused on his ability rather than this disability, said Fr. ORiordan, who added that they were making an effort to get him a prosthetic arm.

He will be back in Aleppo on Monday. If you want to support the work hes doing, 1 can feed one person for a day. You can make a donation to the Jesuits Mission Trust, specifying its for Fr. ORiordans work in Aleppo. The account is in the Bank Of Ireland on OConnell Street in Dublin. Swift Code: BOFIIE2D IBAN: IE81 BOFI 9000 3310 0817 56

Alternatively you can contact Irish Jesuits International on 01 8366509 to make a donation.
THE former CEO of Dairygold, Jim Woulfe, who spent more than a decade at the helm of the Cork-based Co-Op has been appointed adviser to the board of Kerry Co-Op.

In a statement Kerry Co-Op said Mr Woulfe, who spent more than four decades working in the dairy industry prior to leaving Dairygold last year, will work with his new employers to examine the structure of Kerry Co-Op as it develops its strategy.

A native of Ardagh, Co Limerick, Mr Woulfe joined the Ballyclough Co-Op in Mallow in 1979 after graduating from UCC with a degree in Dairy Science.

He subsequently served in a variety of diverse management roles with Ballyclough before it merged with Mitchelstown in 1990, resulting in the establishment of Dairygold.

Over the following two-decades he held a number of senior roles with Dairygold, including milk supplies, head of human resources and head of agri-business prior to his appointment as CEO in July 2009.

Announcing Mr Woulfes appointment, Kerry Co-op chairman Denis Carroll said the company was at an important juncture in its history.

Jims experience and knowledge will support the board as we develop our plan for the long-term future of the Society. With his support, the board will undertake a strategic review of a number of priorities, said Mr Carroll.

He said this would involve what would be possible within the Co-Ops shareholding structure in line with their rule book and examining any rule changes that may be needed.

In addition, it will enable us to bring a plan to our members that outlines our long-term strategy for Kerry Co-Op, said Mr Carroll.

Any plans will be developed to best suit the complexity of issues, with the goal of benefiting all members in the long-term, he added.

Mr Woulfe said Kerry Co-Op has a very important history and he looked forward to playing a role in its future development strategy.

Working closely with the Board, I look forward, when the time is right, to engaging with the elected representative structure, said Mr Woulfe.

The board of Kerry Co-Op is currently evaluating the wording of resolutions devised by the Irish Co-Operative Society.

It is envisaged that rule changes deemed necessary and appropriate will be voted on by members at an SGM that will be held in conjunction with Kerry Co-Ops AGM on July 5 next.
Author recalled how a chance meeting at the Pyramids in Egypt inspired the book

Author Kathleen Aldworth Foster in front of Doneraile House with her husband Chris and two daughters.

Author Kathleen Adlworth Foster reading an expect from her book Doneraile Court - The Story of the Lady Freemason at its official launch last Saturday amid the stately and atmospheric surroundings of Doneraile House.

A CHANCE meeting in the shadow of the great pyramids in Egypt has culminated in the launch last weekend amid the stately surroundings of Doneraile House of a new book about the first and only woman to be initiated into the Irish Freemasons Society.

At the launch of Doneraile Court  The Story of the Lady Freemason its author, American journalist Kathleen Aldworth Foster, read excerpts from the book and spoke about her 15-year journey researching and writing it.

While officially classified as a work of historical fiction, the book is based around the extraordinary life of Elizabeth St Leger Aldworth, the daughter of Arthur St Leger, 1st Viscount Doneraile who was a Freemason.

The story goes that in 1712 the 17-year-old fell asleep while reading a book in the library of her family home, the stately Doneraile Court in the heart of north Cork.

She was awoken by voices coming from an adjacent room and, whether by accident or design, witnessed a number of men, including her father who was Grand Master of the Lodge and her brother, taking part in what was understood to be a secretive initiation ceremony.

Intrigued, she continued to eavesdrop on proceedings before attempting to steal away unnoticed. However, much to the consternation of those present she was rumbled, presenting them with a never before experienced quandary.

Legend has it that one of those present spoke up informing Lord Doneraile of the rule that should their secret be discovered, and members of the Lodge be identified by an outsider, that person must die.

Lord Doneraile pleaded for the life of his daughter, who in turn made a solemn vow that she would never speak of what she had seen.

Elizabeths fate hung in the balance until her father came up with a solution  that she be made a member of the Lodge. While some members remained unhappy at the suggestions, Elizabeth was spared and initiated into the Lodge.

Following her emergency initiation, Elizabeth became a well-known figure within Masonic circles, making public appearances in full Freemason regalia.

Speaking at the book launch Kathleen recalled the first time she ever heard about the Lady Freemason.

I was visiting the pyramids of Giza in 2000 and I met a man who was studying the Freemasons ties to Egypt and he told me that I shared the name Aldworth with the first Lady Freemason. That was the first time I had become aware of that, said Kathleen.

Her curiosity aroused, Kathleen began researching Freemasonry and her Aldworth family connections and discovered Elizabeth St Leger Aldworth was from Cork.

In 2006 she made her first visit to Doneraile, where the idea for the book first took root.

I had so many questions about Elizabeth St Leger Aldworth. I wanted to know all about her and the ritual that she had seen. I looked for a book about it but could not find one, said Kathleen.

She initially set out to write a non-fiction book about Elizabeth, but changed her mind as there were so many different versions behind her story and not enough hard facts to fill a book.

It became clear to me that it would have to be a book of historical fiction, otherwise it would have been little more than a short pamphlet, said Kathleen.

The book cleverly interweaves what is known about Elizabeth with imagined conversations and incidents, creating a vivid interpretation of her life and the circumstances surrounding her initiation into the Freemasons.

As there were so many different versions of Elizabeths life , I had to let my imagination take over. The little bits of information that I did get from local people were really helpful, allowing me to incorporate them into fictionalised elements of the book, said Kathleen.

Describing the process of researching and writing the book as a real labour of love, Kathleen said she was thrilled to be able to officially launch the book at Doneraile House - the very place where the story of the Lady Freemason began.

There is a sense that the whole project has come full-circle,. I really felt it was important to launch the book at the place where Elizabeths Freemasonry journey started. So being able to launch the book here really is a dream come true for me, said Kathleen.

Kathleen said she has been overwhelmed by the reaction to the book from people who have read it, particularly from the people of Doneraile itself.

A lot of people love historical fiction books, especially when they can identify with the story. I think tourists will also like the book as it gives a broad picture of this beautiful part of Cork and of Doneraile House and its wonderful surroundings, said Kathleen.

I also believe that it will appeal to Freemasons, not just in Ireland but across the globe as Elizabeth St Leger Aldworths holds a very special place within Freemasonry. There is even a lodge named after her in Brazil, she added.

Copies of Doneraile Court  The Story of the Lady Freemason can be purchased at www.donerailecourt.com or local outlets including Philips Bookshop in Mallow.
Karen Stanley, Minister Simon Harris and Noeline Blackwell at the launch of the national online guide for survivors of sexual violence. Pic: Alan Rowlette

The Dublin Rape Crisis Centre has launched a new guide offering detailed information to victims and survivors of sexual violence.

The guide draws on the real-life experiences of survivors as well as frontline service providers and support agencies.

Finding Your Way after Sexual Violence covers how to access medical treatment after rape or sexual assault, report to An Garda Siochana and navigate the courts process, using animations, audio testimony and quotes.

It also offers guidance to those who are supporting friends or loved ones impacted by sexual violence. The guide was launched this week by acting Minister for Justice Simon Harris.

This guide is a comprehensive and much needed resource. It is a resource that contains the voice of survivors and support workers, said Mr Harris.

It is written by those who have first-hand experience of all parts of the system for those who are facing into their own difficult journey.

Their voices provide reassurance that throughout the system there are empathetic, professional and dedicated people who want to help and guide victims and survivors, and who understand the journey for each person, and their needs are unique.

Providing people with the information they need, at a time when they need it, is crucial and this comprehensive guide presents all of the information in a clear, informative and sensitive way, he added.

Noeline Blackwell, CEO of the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre, said the aim was to create a resource that would be available to people 24/7.

It will allow them to explore the various options in their own time, and contains not just information but also the real, lived experience of other victims and survivors.

We in DRCC have been very privileged to be given access to these honest, personal statements and we believe they will be a source of strength for people on what is most often a terribly difficult journey.

We believe they will help people understand they are not alone, that others have walked this path, that their feelings, no matter what they are, are valid, and that support is there for them should they need it.

Karen Stanley, who has experienced sexual violence and is a client of the centre, said the guide is important for anyone who has experienced sexual violence.

No two experiences are the same, and this guide has information for whatever stage you are at, she said.

When youre going through trauma, you cant always retain the information, and having it all in one place in an online space is so helpful.

Whatever path someone takes after experiencing sexual violence, it can feel so isolating, and having this resource can make a huge difference.

The language is easy to understand, and the emotional support that Rape Crisis Centres provide is there.

Its a step in the right direction, and its comforting to know that information and support is available when you need it, she added.

The guide is available on DRCCs website.
Artist Adam Doyle, aka Spice Bag, stands in front of the mural of his controversial reworking of The Eviction. Pic: Mark Condren.

The artist behind the controversial picture of gardai attending a famine eviction scene will support a protest this weekend at Tathony House in Dublin.

The residents in 15 remaining households are facing eviction from the housing block in the south inner city.

They are calling on Dublin City Council to step in and purchase the block through the tenant-in-situ scheme or through an approved housing body.

Artist Adam Doyle, known as Spicebag, created the now infamous image from a 19th-century painting by Cork artist Daniel MacDonald of a Famine-era eviction.

He included contemporary photos of gardai at more recent evictions. The image has since appeared as a mural on a house in Arbour Hill in Dublin.

Residents of Tathony House, Kilmainham, Dublin 8, received notice to quit in October, seen by Independent.ie, as the landlord intends to sell the property.

However, the remaining tenants have vowed to defy their eviction on June 2 and overhold.

Tenant James OToole, who has lived at Tathony House since 2009, said: We might win at the RTB and our landlord will have to issue new eviction notices, but even if he wins we are not going.

Theres nowhere to go except into homeless services and we all refuse to volunteer for homelessness.

The residents are holding a protest this Saturday, April 22, at 3pm outside Tathony House, Bow Lane West, Dublin 8.

The rally will be addressed by tenants alongside Spice Bag, TDs, the tenants union CATU, United Against Racism and other supporting groups.

A resident of Tathony House battling lung cancer previously told Independent.ie that the eviction has left him stressed and desperate.

Gianluca Pollastro (42) was diagnosed with lung cancer at the beginning of October last year and is currently receiving treatment.

Mr Pollastro, who has been living at the property since June 2020, said there is nowhere for us to go as the tenants plan to stay past their eviction date in June.
The It's Always Sunny cast in Kehoe's pub on South Anne Street, Dublin, ahead of their 3Arena gig

Rob McElhenny and his co-stars from Its Always Sunny in Philadelphia had pre-drinks in Kehoes pub yesterday evening ahead of their Dublin gig.

Glenn Howerton (Dennis), Charlie Day (Charlie) and McElhenney (Mac), were joined by Megan Ganz (Sunny writer and fan), for The Always Sunny Podcast last night.

Yesterday, Kehoes pub tweeted: Its Always Sunny in South Anne Street... Great to have the guys from @TheSunnyPodcast in today filming the podcast before their shows in Dublin.

Later, Rob McElhenny reacted to their first 3Arena gig with a simple: Wow Dublin.

The show, which centres around a group of dysfunctional friends who run an Irish bar in Philadelphia, premiered in 2005.

It quickly gained a mass following and over the last decade has become one of the most popular shows on Netflix.

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The gang are getting back on the 3Arena stage tonight, April 18. Heres what you should know if youre going:

Doors open 6.30pm

Always Sunny Podcast starts 7.45pm

Maximum bag size of 3Arena is 40cmx40cmx20cm.

Allow plenty of time to get to the venue.

3Arena is a cashless venue.

The Always Sunny Podcast LIVE! looks back on the past 15 seasons of the hit show. It features stories as the cast reflect on nearly two decades of making the hit series.

Starting with the first episode, the creators and stars recap their memories of making the show and discuss how they formed a lasting partnership that has endured the better part of two decades.

The cast of the show are no strangers to Ireland as they previously filmed two episodes here back in 2021. The episodes were called The Gang Goes to Ireland and The Gang Still in Ireland.

There was even a call out for a Danny DeVito stunt double when they were filming in Dublin.
Residents of Richmond Road in north Dublin staged a protest this morning against drivers mounting the footpath and posing a threat to safety.

The residents are calling on Dublin City Council to introduce a parking permit scheme in April, rather than the planned date in June, to reduce traffic flow on the narrow street.

Locals have said the street has become a rat run with cars and HGVs driving and parking on the footpath, while residents are being abused to move out of the way.

Locals, who have been campaigning since 2017, were up bright and early to protest at 7.30am on the footpath.

Resident Andrew Cahill said: We are trying to get things moving and engage with Dublin City Council. We want them to get the finger out and get the ball rolling on this permit scheme.

As the protest took place, a HGV attempted to drive down the road despite signage in place prohibiting 3.5 tonne vehicles, and gardai intervened.

Residents of Richmond Road protesting this morning

It was a point proven, this is why we are out here, said Mr Cahill. The lorry had to drive on the footpath so as soon as it went past us, it went up onto the footpath.

That lorry, you could repeat that situation 20 times a day and they shouldnt be there.

Residents previously raised concerns regarding abuse from drivers and were hesitant to protest this morning.

We were worried about it, what if motorists became abusive on the way to work this morning. Thankfully there was no confrontation, Mr Cahill said.

Richmond Road connects the Drumcondra Road with Fairview Strand and both routes are heavily congested during peak hours.

The parking scheme will accommodate about 30 parking spaces for residents. This would block off certain sections of the road from parking and leave gaps for traffic to weave through, preventing a need for vehicles to mount the footpath.

Councillor Naoise O Muiri, who was present at the protest, said: The issue is a longstanding one with cars driving up on the footpaths. Residents are really frustrated about it, and rightly so.

One of the posters highlighting the dangers for residents of Richmond Road

The former Lord Mayor of Dublin said the council has been working on a parking permit scheme which has been agreed by the residents, but there is a delay in implementing the plan.

The residents have cooperated fully with that plan, and they just want it implemented. The council needs to get on it and do it, he said.

He added that residents understandably have a low threshold of confidence because it has been delayed and delayed.

A spokesperson for Dublin City Council previously confirmed to Independent.ie that arrangements are being made to install signage. However, the scheme will not be introduced until-mid June due to IT software being installed.

Residents will continue to protest every week until the parking permit scheme is introduced on Richmond Road.
Fenit is getting set to embrace its wild side this weekend, April 20-23rd, as the WildMind Festival returns to the village.

The festival promises a stellar line-up of scientists, environmentalists, authors, and artists that will combine a series of fun events, films, music and comedy, in what promises to be a fun-filled family weekend.

RTEs environmental stalwart Duncan Stewart will lead a cast that includes renowned comedian Colm ORegan, UCC professor Hannah Daly, and Padraic Fogarty of the Irish Wildlife Trust.

Planned to coincide with World Earth Day, the WildMind Festival takes place near the Tralee-Fenit Greenway entrance in a specially constructed festival village.

If you have ever thought about growing your own food, learning about what lives in Tralee Bay or learning of the amazing history of the Tralee to Fenit railway line, then the WildMind Festival is for you.

You can treat yourself to a turn in a wood-fired sauna on the beach, take part in a guided walk that takes you through the everyday biodiversity that exists in the area, or meet Fenits friendly dolphins on a kayak tour of the lighthouse.

This is just a snapshot of the many events that will showcase the wildlife systems in this part of Kerry and how we can bring about the change that our planet so desperately needs.

The promise is that Fenit village will come alive with a wide range of events and activities, each of which aims to inform, inspire and immerse people in the natural environment.

A hint of what to expect will see the festival officially launched by Duncan Stewart on Friday at 6pm,

Sunday has something for all the family, with activities for young and old, food stalls, local artisan producers and craft demonstrations.

WildMinds aim is to empower people to make everyday changes in how we think about and treat the planet. Changes that, collectively, can make a difference.

The festival concludes on a light-hearted note when Colm ORegan brings his comedy show Climate Worrier to Fenit.

All information on events and tickets can be found at wildmind.ie.
THE Munster Technological University (MTU) has agreed a repayment plan to begin paying off an outstanding 5 million emergency loan that was provided to IT Tralee three years ago.

In 2018  three years before its merger with Cork IT to form the MTU  the then Institute of Technology Tralee encountered major cash flow issues that, the Government said, threatened its sustainability.

In mid 2019  to alleviate the problem and in order to avoid the possibility of significant cutbacks at the college  the Higher Education Authority (HEA) and the Department of Education approved a one off payment of 5 million in emergency funding to IT Tralee in order to keep the institution afloat.

At the time the Department of Further and Higher Education confirmed that funding had been approved to ensure the stability of the institution, but did not clarify when  or if  the 5 million payment would be repayable to the State.

The Department said that the question of repayment would be considered following a review of a sustainability plan for ITT and a further assessment of the institutes financial position.

The issue was raised in the Dail in recent weeks by Independent Waterford TD Matt Shanahan who asked Further Education Minister Simon Harris what was the up to date position regarding repayment of the emergency funding package.

In response Minister Harris said a sustainability plan had been completed in 2020  with the assistance of Deloitte  and based on this a repayment plan has been agreed by the MTU, HEA and the Department.

According to Minister Harris the first payments are due to be made in May 2024. Serious cash-flow difficulties emerged in the Institute and it was identified in 2018 that the Institute would need additional funding and a series of cost saving measures to ensure its sustainable future, Mr Harris said.

[The funding] was provided to ensure immediate stability of the college and was essential to maintain current services at the Institute, Minister Harris told the Dail.
Situation totally contravenes best practice when it comes to disability access

Louth Aontu representative Michael ODowd has hit out at Bus Eireann and their decision to prohibit access to the bus depot for Taxis.

In a letter to the organisation he has called on them to reverse this decision and highlighted how the situation in Drogheda totally contravenes best practice when it comes to disability access.

Design guidelines produced by the Irish Wheelchair Association are very clear, and drop off points for disability access must be as close as possible to the bus terminal and within sight of it , on level ground and provide shelter from the elements. The new situation in Drogheda fails on all these counts, said the former Mayor of Drogheda.

It should also be remembered that drop off points are also pick up points and the gradient from the bus depot to the allocated parking area is hugely challenging for wheelchair users.

ODowd has also highlighted the fact that Bus Eireann does not at present have an Access Officer which is a requirement for all public bodies.

The company has accepted that this role is important and have undertaken to fill it as quickly as possible, however thats scant consolation for those with a disability who depend on informed decisions for in relation to the built environment, he added.

This is of vital importance as without the ability to get out and about, people with disabilities will never achieve a full integration.

The bottom line is that Bus Eireann need to allow access for taxis and I will campaign to make this happen.
Former Mayor brings head of 1947 winner Caughoo to watch this years race

Frank Godfrey and 1947 Aintree Grand National winner Caughoo place their bets on this years race at Paddy Power Bookmakers Duleek St. Drogheda. Photo: Colin Bell Photography

The 1947 Grand National winner Caughoo, ridden by Eddie Dempsey, is led towards the winners' enclosure after the race at Aintree. Picture by Keystone/Getty Images

Frank Godfrey and 1947 Aintree Grand National winner Caughoo with Brenda and Ruth Campbell, Paul Grace, Sean Victory, Roty McCann, Trevor Marry, Isabelle Phillips, Pat Quinn, Sharon Campbell, Sarah and Jackson Balfe and Pat Clarke at The Pheasant. Photo: Colin Bell Photography

76 years ago, on a late March afternoon in 1947, an Irish horse won the most iconic of all horse races, the Aintree Grand National.

The horse, named Caughoo, romped home at odds of 100-1. The whole of Ireland celebrated the victory.

And only Frank Godfrey could bring the head of a former Grand National winner to see who won the current Grand National!

Indeed other heads did turn when the former Mayor of Drogheda walked into the Pheasant bar in Duleek Street last Saturday, with all that remains of 1947 Grand National winner Caughoo under his arm.

"I just love the old horse and he always makes some sort of an appearance on Grand National Day and everyone has great memories of Caughoo, he explains. If course in 1987, I brought him to Aintree and 58 million people saw him go across the screen on the BBC for his 40th anniversary!

Not quite so many people saw him at the Pheasant, but he still managed to grab a fair bit of attention.

Frank bought the unusual souvenir for the princely sum of 50 some years before, and although there was some dispute that it was actually the head of the champ, Frank even brought the jockey to his cottage to verify the authenticity!

"Winning jockey Eddie Dempsey came here and had a bottle of stout and a good look around the head, said Frank. He then said, yes, without a shadow of a doubt, that was the horse which brought him to victory!

Caughoos head was rescued from the devastating fire which ravaged Franks cottage in 2008.

He survived the fire when a piece of galvanise fell on top of his head and prevented it from being totally destroyed, said the colourful former councillor. I was told he always used to watch the Grand National before I had him, so I want to keep up the tradition.

But does the legendary winner bring Frank any luck?

"I dont think so, he says with a laugh. I put a little bet on and did win, but Im not sure whether that has anything to do with Caughoo!
President Joe Biden with young members of New Leaf and Comhairle na nOg in the Windsor Bar, Dundalk on Wednesday.

While the pomp and ceremony of the visit of US President Joe Biden was taking place in Dundalk last week, there was one small group of hard-working and dedicated young people waiting patiently in a back room to to meet with the leader of the United States of America!

A handful of young people from New Leaf/Mid-Louth Youth Service in Dee Hub in Ardee got a private meeting with President Biden at the Windsor in Dundalk, to say thank you for the funding they receive from The International Fund for Ireland (US peace money).

New Leaf is based out of the Hub in Ardee and work with local youths.

Operated and managed by the Ardee & District Community Trust, co-ordinated by Damien McKenna and funded by the International Fund for Ireland, the programme is designed to help young people build and develop life skills that foster good relations, build confidence and resilience and enhance their employability skills.

The fund was set up in 1986 and New Leaf is a shining example of the Personal Youth Development Programme. All credit must go to Louth Comhairle na nOg for the photo and to Damien McKenna, Beth Carragher, the team in IFI and Dept of Foreign Affairs for flying the local flag with POTUS!

After the visit finished,Clllr John Sheridan met with co-ordinator Damien McKenna and Beth Carragher of New Leaf and four local Ardee teenagers in the Windsor for a while. They were accompanied by Paddy Harte, chair of the IFI along with civil servants from the Department of Foreign Affairs

I should also say it spoke volumes that the President and his organising team wanted to prioritise this group for a private audience with him and Tanaiste Micheal Martin, added Cllr Sheridan.
Conservation badly needed by Office of Public Works

Mayor of Drogheda, Cllr Michelle Hall welcomes the response and reassurance to her letter from Minister for State Patrick ODonovan about the conservation of the Monasterboice High Crosses. Cllr Hall had written to the Minister last September, whose portfolio includes the Office of Public Works, but only received a formal reply on April 11th.

Cllr Hall was concerned about the conservation of the internationally significant monastic crosses and has received some reassurance from the Minister that they have not been subjected to too much wear and tear in recent years and that OPW staff regularly carry out inspections of the site.

In 2009, the Monasterboice County Louth Conservation Study, commissioned by the OPW and Louth County Council examined conservation options for the Monasterboice High Crosses as it was at severe risk of vandalism and erosion. It is reassuring that in 2019, the same stone conservator examined Muirdeachs Cross and found it to be in a very stable condition. The Tall Cross will be examined very soon, she explained.

However, I am concerned about the effect that global warming will have on the crosses. We are now experiencing high volumes of rain more frequently and who knows how that may affect stability and erosion on the crosses. It is also open to vandalism as we saw recently on the Hill of Tara.

She says she is looking forward to engaging closely with OPW staff that have been instructed by Minister ODonovan to contact Cllr Hall.

"The public toilets have now been reopened by Louth County Council and I would hope that this will be an all year-round amenity, not just for the summer season, she added. I will continue to liaise with the heritage officer, locals and other stakeholders to ensure that we maximise the potential for tourism to Monasterboice and the greater Drogheda area, but in a sustainable manner that is conducive for human and natural environments.

Deputy Mayor of Drogheda Kevin Callan also raised the issue at the monthly meeting of Louth County Council.

Independent Councillor Callan put forward a motion at the April meeting for action to be taken to protect the High Crosses. Louth County Council have responded that they will now enter into communications with the Office of Public Works to begin the process.

Speaking at the council meeting, Cllr Callan said that he was asking the Council to start communications with the Office of Public Works to see if protective covers could be installed on site to have a Perspex cover shield the crosses from rain.

The crosses are internationally renowned and are the finest examples of Celtic high crosses in Ireland. The British Museum created plaster full scale moulds of the crosses in 1903 and these are currently in the Victoria and Albert Museum. The copies show the substantial amount of erosion from rain water in even 120 years".

"I am asking the council to start discussions to see will the OPW implement a covering over the two main crosses that will allow them to stay on site. As this is an operational graveyard, any such measures would have to be sympathetic to the graveyard but if we do not act, the structures will continue to lose detail. The Office of Public Works are responsible for the structures as they are national monuments and are over 100 years old".

Louth County Council have confirmed that it will enter into discussions with the Office of Public Works on the matter.
The premises in Scholes Lane, which the Drogheda Animal Rescue service had to vacate.

The ISPCA has launched their Strategic Framework 2023-2027. Pictured at the launch is the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue, Chair of the ISPCA Board, Ms. Kerry-Anne Pollock and CEO of the ISPCA, Dr Cyril Sullivan with rescued dog Ruby. Photo: Peter Houlihan/Fennells

After reading the plight of the Drogheda Animal Rescue service in the Drogheda Independent, The Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ISPCA) has made contact with the volunteer service to see if they can work out a plan to keep helping animals in need in the local area.

The 25 year old service was operating from a tiny unit in Scholes Lane, Drogheda, and had to vacate the premises a few weeks ago, leaving them and all their rescue cats and dogs homeless.

Following your recent DI front page on the closure of Drogheda Animal Rescue (DAR), I contacted Lisa in DAR  and we are looking at ways that the ISPCA can help and support DAR, said Dr Cyril Sullivan, CEO of the ISPCA, who also happens to live in Tullyallen, Co Louth,

We have started the conversation, so we are looking at collaborating on dog/cat animal welfare campaigns. Lisa, her colleague Elizabeth and I are meeting to plan these.

A representative of DAR was unavailable at the time of press.

Meanwhile the ISPCA has launched its New Strategic Framework 2023-2027 aligned with the Government, to protect all animals in Ireland.

The strategy outlines the ISPCAs vision for the next five years which is to ensure all animals are loved, respected, protected and treated with kindness.

It also sets out the pathway for the ISPCA to achieve its three goals of, preventing cruelty to animals, protecting vulnerable animals and prosecuting all those who break Irish animal welfare law.

Our principal ambition is to ensure that all animals in Ireland can live their best life, always. The delivery of our strategic goals and objectives will be achieved in conjunction with our key stakeholders: the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, our staff and volunteers, local authorities, our corporate partners and our member organisations, said Dr Sullivan. We would not be able to deliver on this strategy without their invaluable and continuous support. We want to thank them all for their support to date and the ISPCA look forward to working closely with these essential partners deliver on the organisation's strategic priorities and objectives.

The Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ISPCA) is Irelands largest national animal welfare charity whose members protect, rescue, treat and responsibly rehome tens of thousands of animals of all different species across Ireland.
The communities around her native Kilkerley and Knockbride and further afield were saddened and shocked at the news that Geraldine McCullagh, of Littlemills, Dundalk had died suddenly in Spain on Good Friday, April 7.

Geraldine was a dedicated community worker who devoted her life to helping others. She is best known for her work with the Stephenstown Pond Trust but was also instrumental in bringing the mental health support group AWARE to the county and in setting up the Louth branch of Victim Support.

She grew up on the family farm in Littlemills and had a life long love of the countryside and nature which was intertwined with her work championing rural development.

She attended the Friary NS and Dundalk Vocational School, and later studied at NUI Maynooth, attaining a Hons B.c in Rural Development and Marketing. She worked in McCanns Bakery, Quinns solicitors and Reynolds Electrics in her early years but will be best remembered for her community work which stemmed from her passionate desire to help others.

Her involvement with Stephenstown Pond began when she was appointed as supervisor of a Community Employment Scheme and she progressed to becoming Project Manager in 2011, a post she held until her untimely death. She made a huge contribution to the development of the pond and centre as a resource for the community, leaving a wonderful legacy to be enjoyed for years to come. She was also a supporter of Knockbridge Tidy Towns and the Tidy Towns movement throughout the county.

Working on the farm gave Geraldine a deep appreciation of the countryside and she loved all animals, especially dogs and cats.

She was also a fan of Irish traditional and folk music as well as country music and enjoyed going to gigs and concerts.

Most of all Geraldine will be remembered for her kind and caring nature which saw her reaching out to friends and acquaintances whenever she felt they needed help.

Tributes were paid to Geraldine at the monthly meeting of Louth County Council, acknowledging the contribution she had made to her community.

Posting on Facebook Stephenstown Pond said "Geraldine was one of a small group of committed citizens that transformed a neglected site in Knockbridge into the Nature Park that is Stephenstown Pond. Her vision, dedication and ability to work with a myriad of agencies and individuals to deliver positive outcomes was unequalled and she has left a wonderful legacy as a result of her thoughtfulness and commitment.

The Knockbridge Tidy Towns committee said they were devastated at the passing of our dear friend and colleague Geraldine Mc Cullagh. Geraldines calm presence, administrative skills, forward thinking and genuine love for community has been a key factor in the development of amenities in our community over many years and instrumental in our success in the National Tidy Towns and other community competitions. We will miss her greatly, particularly her friendship, and no words can adequately express our sorrow at this time.

The Louth Tidy Towns Together group said always unselfish with her time and compliments for the work undertaken by volunteers throughout the county Geraldine will be so missed.

Most of all, Geraldine loved her family, and leaves behind her heartbroken siblings Thomas, Bernadette and Patrick., sisters in law Carmel and Margaret, her adored nephew Patrick and niece Julieanne, relatives and many friends.
He may have by-passed the delights of Drogheda for his ancestral home of Dundalk, but there was plenty of local representation on US President Joe Bidens visit, with the Drogheda Mayor flying the flag as First Citizen.

Mayor of Drogheda Councillor Michelle Hall has the pleasure of being introduced to President Joe Biden by An Tanaiste Micheal Martin in Windsor Pub, as the American President visited Dundalk on his first official trip to Ireland.

Mayor Hall had met An Tanaiste recently in New York for the St Patrick's Day Festival and in the Abbey Theatre at the 25th anniversary celebration of the Good Friday Agreement as a former chairperson of the cross border organisation East Border Region.

"It was a huge privilege for Louth's elected representatives to have been invited to Dundalk for a Special Community event with President Joe Biden and an even bigger privilege to have been personally introduced to the President, said Mayor Hall.

He is the most important leader of democratic countries in the world today when democracy is at threat globally.

"I was delighted to represent the people of the historic and wonderful town of Drogheda and to gift President Biden with a variety of books, music, tourism leaflets but most importantly, an invitation to visit Drogheda on any return visits to Ireland.

Of course he may have had a wonderful souvenier of his visit, but the Louth reps were hoping for one of their own!

As we waited in the Windsor Bar, as chairs of the three municipal districts. Cllr Dolores Minogue, Kevin Keenan and I conspired that we would request a selfie from President Biden and we were exalted that he agreed, she says. We now have a memorable photo of the occasion including my Drogheda colleagues Cllrs Joanna Byrne and Emma Cutlip, MEP Colm Markey and other elected members in Louth.

Mayor Hall says she would like to express her appreciation to Louth County Council for their efforts to make this visit go so smoothly.

"Special thanks to Director Paddy Donnelly for leading the team on the Presidential visit. Many officials from the US and Department of Foreign Affairs came forward to thank him for his help in making their job easier, says Cllr Hall. Paddy's experience and organisational skills will be sorely missed when he retires in June.
A 39 year old Kildare man who was showing nothing but contempt for road traffic laws was told by Judge Sandra Murphy at Sligo District Court he was lucky he didnt kill himself or other road users following a crash in North Sligo.

James Lynch of 1 Our Ladys, Naas, Co Kildare was charged with dangerous driving, no insurance and driving a dangerous defective vehicle at Milltown, Drumcliffe, Co Sligo on August 2nd 2020.

Sergeant Derek Butler told the court Sgt Terry McMahon was on duty and received a call at 1:15pm about a possible drunk driver leaving the petrol station in Grange.

The car was described as driving erratically to Sligo. Sgt McMahon drove past the garage and in the townland of Urlar he saw a car pulled in and parked at a slight angle.

The rear wheel was up on the yellow broken line.

There appeared initially to be no one in the car but when approached, the driver seat was reclined and the driver was asleep with the window down.

Gardai performed a vehicle check and the male woke up. Sgt OToole directed the man not to start the car however he started it and it stalled.

Sgt McMahon went to the drivers side and the driver then took off at high speed.

The gardai made their way to the patrol car and signalled oncoming cars to stop.

They followed the car in question. Around a corner, there were cars either side of the road with hazards on and smoke could be seen coming from a badly damaged lorry.

There was a car badly damaged and the engine was smoking.

It appeared the car had come around the bend and crashed head on into the lorry.

Sgt McMahon and Gda OToole went to assist and the driver of the car appeared to be very badly injured with a bad head injury.

He was unconscious and the defendant was taken away by ambulance to Sligo University Hospital.

Witness statements were taken from the lorry driver who said the car collided with an Opal Vectra as it was overtaking it and went spinning over the road.

The defendant sustained serious injuries and discharged himself from hospital three days later, the court heard.

He later went to the garda station and made a cautioned statement and said he had no recollection and stated he had no insurance. He also stated he knew the car was defective.

Sgt Butler said Lynch was trying to overtake the Vectra, hit the Vectra and then spun out and went head on into the lorry.

Judge Murphy enquired if there were injuries to the lorry driver or the passengers in the Vectra and the sergeant said there were none.

She said if he wasnt insured there would be no payment and the sergeant agreed saying, it would be substantial.

He had 63 previous convictions, including a number for dangerous driving, hit and run and no insurance.

Defending solicitor Mr Tom MacSharry said that his client went into the garda station voluntarily to make a statement.

On the date in question there was a case of panic and he took off and luckily he was not killed.

He was the father of eight children. Judge Murphy said the Probation Report said he did not engage at all with Probation Services.

Mr MacSharry said he did with the first Probation Report.

He said if given another chance he would re-engage.

Sgt Butler also said that Lynch was under monitoring and has come to garda attention since.

Judge Murphy said it was noted he failed to attend meetings with his Probation Officer in Newbridge.

Mr MacSharry said his client was taking it very serious and asked the court not to impose a prison sentence.

Judge Murphy said this man had served previous sentences for dangerous driving and he got a previous sentence for no insurance.

Sergeant Butler said he would say Mr Lynch was showing nothing but contempt for road traffic laws in the country.

Judge Murphy said he was not suitable for Community Service.

She said Lynch was given every opportunity and it seemed it was his partner who tried to get him to go to Probation Services but he still didnt.

Mr MacSharry said he had never been given Community Service before.

Judge Murphy replied this was a man who had been given ample opportunity and she was not considering Community Service as an option.

She said he had three previous convictions for no insurance.

Judge Murphy added these were extremely serious matters.

She said Mr Lynch was lucky not to have killed himself and extremely lucky not to have killed the driver of the Vectra or the lorry.

In the circumstances she said she was going to convict and sentence him to four months in prison on the dangerous driving charge.

On the no insurance charge, she convicted and sentenced him to two months in prison consecutive.

She disqualified him from driving for six years.

In relation to the driving a dangerous defective vehicle, she convicted him and sentenced him to two months in prison concurrent.

In total, she sentenced him to six months. Recognisances were fixed.
Members of the Riverchapel Courtown Ladies Club put their heads together for a unique fundraiser aimed at raising money for Relay for Life Wexford.

From festive fedoras to bright-coloured bonnets and even a canine-sized cap, the ladies got their creative juices flowing for the Easter Bonnet Competition and fundraiser. Following a parade, in which the participants showed off their creations, Senator Malcolm Byrne and Founder of Riverchapel Free Cycle Liz Byrne had the difficult task of choosing the winners. Siobhan Geoghegan was named the winner of the adults section for her impressive floral hat.

According to Monica of Riverchapel Courtown Ladies Group, the event was a huge success which received a massive amount of support from businesses and individuals in the community. A total of 1,000 was raised on the day and this will soon be donated to Relay for Life Wexford  a project of the Irish Cancer Society.
Cllr John Fleming on the road to Clonroche where several accidents have happened. Photo; Mary Browne

Following the most recent accident on the New Ross side of Clonroche, Cllr John Fleming is calling for Transport Infrastructure Ireland to carry out works to ensure no more fatalities occur at the location.

Speaking at the New Ross Municipal District meeting, Cllr Fleming said: There was another accident at Des Kehoe's. A car went in over the ditch and landed at his front door.

Cllr Fleming said he has witnessed a van go over the ditch at a bend in the N30 road, saying Transport Infrastructure Ireland are aware of how dangerous it is and yet have not carried out enough works to stop accidents from happening.

"There was a sign at the bend but it has been moved across to the other side of the road.

"This man just wants to protect his family. When there was a fatality there you would think that would be enough but no one has spoken with the owner living across the road, said Cllr Fleming.
Slaney Search & Rescue members checking on residents of the Island Road in Enniscorthy during flooding in December 2015. It's been an ongoing problem for years.

A special meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District focusing attention on the towns proposed but long awaited flood relief scheme is due to take place in the Presentation Centre on Thursday, April 20, at 10.30 a.m.

Its expected that councillors will meet with officials from the local authority with a view to getting a detailed update on where the project is currently at.

The initial proposal was rejected by the then Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, Michael McGrath TD, early in 2022.

Min McGrath based his decision on a recommendation by independent assessors appointed to examine the submission lodged by the OPW in respect of the 50m scheme.

The decision to refuse permission for the scheme was made under Section 7E(1)(b) of the Arterial Drainage Acts (as amended by the European Union (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Arterial Drainage) Regulations 2019).

In making the decision the minister carried out an Environmental Impact Assessment which took into consideration a number of factors including: the Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) and Natura Impact Statement (NIS) prepared for the OPW and Wexford County Council; supplementary information submitted by the OPW on foot of a request from the ministers department to the OPW for further information following an initial review by the environmental consultants, CAAS.

Read more Disappointment and anger at shock decision to refuse permission for Enniscorthy Flood Defence Scheme

Min McGrath said at the time that in adopting the consultants reports he noted CAAS had outlined a number of inadequacies with the EIAR, with which he agreed.

In respect of the significant effects of the scheme on the environment, Min McGrath said he was satisfied that there are significant shortcomings in the biodiversity assessment in relation to impacts on habitats and species which make it uncertain if the project can comply with environmental legislation including the Wildlife Acts.

However, there are fears locally that the scheme still wont be progressed significantly within the next five years and the proposed development of a new bridge over the river Slaney has also been separated from the main project. However, thats been done as part of a strategy that could benefit the project in the long term as its a component of the scheme that will hopefully get the go-ahead before permission is granted for works to take place on the main flood relief scheme itself.

All of the local councillors have expressed dismay over the fact its taken so long to develop the flood relief scheme that is seriously needed in the town where repeated incidents of intense flooding have taken place over a very long number of years.

Its hoped that Thursdays meeting will provide some clarity for the members in relation to the scheme and what the next stage is with regard to moving the project forward.

The meeting will also include a discussion on special projects planned for the town and district.
Aontu councillor for Wexford Jim Codd has accused his colleagues and officials at Wexford County Council of a degree of hypocrisy in relation to the burning issue of climate change.

Referencing a recent special meeting of the council on the topic, Cllr Codd noted that the members were told that 32.8% of carbon emissions in the county were coming from farms.

Feeling that farmers and fishermen are being made to shoulder an unfair amount of the blame in relation to climate change, the Rosslare District councillor instead chose to fire back at his colleagues and officials in relation to foreign travel that he views as being unnecessary.

"My thinking on this is that theres your fashionable targets for blame  the farmers and the fishermen," he said.

Cllr Jim Codd.

But its very hard to sit there and listen to farmers being responsible for 32.8% of the countys carbon emissions when nobody is making a serious effort to see how much damage is being caused by the airline industry.

"Everybody knows that the damage being caused by planes is substantial and Wexford County Council can't speak out both sides of its mouth on this. We cant attempt to curtail the actions of others, who are doing their best to earn a living, while we ourselves are flying out left, right and centre for all these trips abroad. That has to be adding significantly to the problem too?

The timing of Cllr Codds comments is fitting, given that a total of ten of Wexford's 34 councillors, as well as a handful of officials, travelled to the US for St Patricks Day celebrations last month.

We are elected local representatives and we must carry some of that burden too. If that means missing out on some of these trips abroad, then so be it

In 2022, the local authority spent in excess of 54,000 on sending elected representatives on foreign trips.

"Look theres a burden that has to be carried here in relation to climate change, but it has to be carried equally," Cllr Codd said. We are elected local representatives and we must carry some of that burden too. If that means missing out on some of these trips abroad, then so be it.

"The impact that air travel is having is huge. We can't have it both ways. But I'm not in favour of this constant scapegoating of farmers and fishermen.
Surfing the zeitgeist of Sixties London, she took old, penniless, parsimonious, patriarchal and exhausted post-war Britain by the scruff of its pants  and booted it out the door.

Goodbye corsets, bye-bye roll-ons (vile rubberised corsets without bones), cinched waists, voluminous American skirts, and hairy tweedy Anglo skirts. All went into the bin.

Instead, a welcome mat was laid out for miniskirts, coloured tights, skinny rib jumpers, silver (silver!) tights, pinafores, PVC raincoats with sexy souwesters in pink, striped hotpants and white knee-high boots.

Women everywhere wore Mary Q miniskirts to signify modernity, liberation, freedom

Everything was cast in brilliant colours, and topped with a Vidal Sassoon bob.

Life is marvellous, said Mary. I want women to feel marvellous in their clothes. I want them to be able to dance, to run, to jump.

Straight out of a convent boarding school in Tipperary, this came as a clarion call to my starving heart. It was sensational stuff.

Feel marvellous in clothes? Run and jump and dance in clothes?

Yes, said Mary. The point of wearing them was, she assured us, (a) that youre noticed, (b) that you look sexy, and (c) that you feel good.

Some of Mary Quant's models

After years in dreary school uniforms  sky blue for weekdays, navy blue for weekends  where rolling up the sleeves of your cardigan was considered common and therefore forbidden, Marys message was unimaginably liberating.

London gents in bowler hats rapped on the window of her shop with their furled umbrellas. Disgusting! Outrageous! How dare she put forward clothes like this?

Their wives, stuck at home in the shires with their tweeds and horses and babies, agreed. Disgusting.

We laughed like drains. What did they know? The old fuddy-duddies!

Mary was making London the swinging fashion capital of the world  and we were all on board.

Saturday mornings involved a pilgrimage to 138a Kings Road where we would stand outside the window of Bazaar to marvel at her latest creations. Wed shove each other, staring longingly at the unimaginably skinny and beautiful models, such as Twiggy and Jean Shrimpton, wearing Marys latest creations.

After feasting our eyes and our starving spirits and then having our cafe-au-lait in gluhwein glasses in the French cafe (it was the height of sophistication), we would hurry home to slash inches off skirts, dresses, frocks, stick on false eyelashes, paint on layer after layer of kohl  and attempt to prune our Irish locks into something resembling Marys iconic Vidal Sassoon bob.

Starting at the affordable end of things, we bought her coloured tights (coloured tights!!!) and bright green or yellow nail polish. We haunted the second-hand shops for Mary Q cast-offs. Anything to try and re-create the London look  skinny, sassy, cheeky, beholden to no man.

We had the pill. We had Mary Q, and we had Biba. Heaven on earth.

Quant models in 1967

Mary Quant wasnt just a purveyor of dreams. She was also seriously practical. She began her career as many a designer/writer/artist has  sick in bed, aged six and bored. So she took her nail scissors to the bedspread and made a dress.

Her mums response to that is unrecorded  but her parents, both schoolteachers from Wales, did allow her go to Goldsmiths College as long as she got a teachers diploma. She spent her evenings taking pattern-cutting classes.

She met her husband, and life and business partner, Alexander Plunket Greene, at a Goldsmiths ball and between them they set up Bazaar  Marys first boutique. He ran a restaurant in the basement. From there, boot-strapping their way to the top, her kingdom spread out to influence women across the entire globe.

Women everywhere wore Mary Q miniskirts to signify modernity, liberation, freedom from the patriarchy.

When one snooty interviewer observed that not everyone had the legs to look magnificent in a miniskirt, Mary looked at him in genuine horror.

Who wants to look magnificent? she asked.

She believed fashion was for everyone  not just the aristos at Ascot. She even signed a contract with patternmakers Butterick so we office girls could spend our evenings knocking up our own Mary Quant pinnies, dresses, minis and hotpants.

Quant took everyday items, ripped them asunder and re-made them for the new generation of young women with jobs, money, and attitudes. She was the original de-constructor. She removed linings, interfacing, structure itself.

The problem is, she once explained, women are round, and fabric is flat. I wanted to make clothes rounder. Freer.

Heather Tilbury, who worked for her, said she was quite shy but had a steely certainty.

She wasnt just an icon because she made beautiful clothes, democratised fashion, and opened the door for us feel entitled to feel sexy and free  she was also incredibly successful at a time when women entrepreneurs were scarcer than hens teeth.

Dressed always in her own creations, she showed the way. Thrilling to her dynamism and optimism, we followed in our millions.

Rest in power, beautiful Mary. You didnt just liberate our legs, you liberated our souls as well.


A spokesman for a powerful Sudanese paramilitary group battling the countrys armed forces has announced his defection, in a possible sign the army is gaining the upper hand after three days of fighting.

The Sudanese military has been in conflict with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) since Saturday around the capital Khartoum and in other parts after weeks of escalating tensions between the leaders, who hold the top two positions on Sudans ruling council.

At least 97 civilians have been killed and 365 injured, according to a group of Sudanese doctors, as the fighting threatens to derail the nations shift from autocracy to civilian rule.

However, the militarys air superiority may prove decisive, with the air force bombing RSF bases. Air strikes and shelling intensified around the capital yesterday with heavy fighting near military headquarters.

Awadeya Mahmoud Koko, head of a union for tea vendors, said from Khartoum: Gunfire and shelling are everywhere.

Najm Eldin Abdallah, a spokesman for the RSF, announced his defection to the armed forces, in a video shared online yesterday I am responding to the orders of the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, which he issued last night to terminate the mandate of the officers of the armed forces serving with the Rapid Support Forces, he said.

The RSF emerged from the Janjaweed militias that attacked Darfur during the 2000s on behalf of the government.

Led by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, the RSF was incorporated into the armed forces.

Yesterday Hemedti called on the international community to support him in his fight against Gen al-Burhan, whom he called a radical Islamist and accused of bombing civilians.

We are fighting against radical Islamists who hope to keep Sudan isolated and in the dark, and far removed from democracy.

We will continue to pursue Al-Burhan and bring him to justice, he tweeted, writing in English in his first message on the platform since the fighting erupted.

The UN and the US urged an immediate cessation of hostilities, repeating calls made on Saturday.

Volker Perthes, the United Nations Special Representative, said he was extremely disappointed that a ceasefire agreed to on Sunday to allow the evacuation of civilians was only partially honoured.

James Cleverly, the UK foreign secretary, said: The immediate future lies in the hands of the generals who are engaged in this fight.

We call upon them to put peace first, to bring an end to the fighting, to get back to negotiations.

Thats what the people of Sudan want, thats what the people of Sudan deserve.
A man looks at the damage inside a house during clashes between the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces and the army in Khartoum, Sudan. Photo: Reuters

An Irish diplomat who was assaulted at his residence in the Sudanese capital Khartoum is in good shape, Tanaiste Micheal Martin has said.

The Foreign Affairs Minister said he was very worried when he heard about the attack last night on Aidan OHara (58), the EU ambassador to Sudan.

Aidan is in good shape, thanks be to God, Mr Martin told reporters at a press conference in Belfast.

We do have a number of Irish citizens in Sudan, many working with international organisations, Aidan is a UN ambassador in Sudan. We're keeping obviously a very close eye on their wellbeing, he said.

Mr OHara joined the Department of Foreign Affairs in 1986 and took up the role of Ambassador to Ethiopia, South Sudan, and the African Union in 2012.

EU ambassador to Sudan Aidan O'Hara. Photo: DFA.ie

The incident comes as the Sudanese capital has been engulfed by explosions and gunfire over the last three days, as the army and a powerful rival force battled in the streets for control of the country.

The situation is very, very fraught in Sudan, said Mr Martin, adding that the safety of Irish citizens in the country was paramount and he appealed for both sides to cease all hostilities.

I would ask the protagonists to heed the words of the UN secretary-general in respect of ending the violence and engaging in talks.

Obviously, it's very difficult to leave the country right now (with) the situation at the airport in Khartoum.

Were hoping to keep the situation, with our colleagues within the European Union and with the United Kingdom, we'll continue to monitor that and obviously from our perspective, the safety of our citizens is paramount.

At least 185 people have been killed and over 1,800 wounded since the fighting erupted, UN envoy Volker Perthes said.

The toll could be much higher because there are many bodies in the streets around central Khartoum that no one can reach because of the clashes.

There has been no official word on how many civilians or combatants have been killed.

The sudden explosion of violence over the weekend between the nations two top generals, each backed by tens of thousands of fighters, trapped millions of people in their homes or wherever they could find shelter, with supplies running low in many areas.

The two sides are using tanks, artillery, and other heavy weapons in densely populated areas.

Fighter jets swooped overhead and anti-aircraft fire lit up the skies as darkness fell.

Top diplomats on four continents scrambled to broker a truce, with the UN Security Council set to discuss the crisis.

Mr Martin has said his Department, including its Embassy in Nairobi, will continue to monitor the situation closely, and to work with our partners in the region, within the European Union, and at the United Nations, to seek to end the violence.

It comes as earlier today Sudans rival commanders agreed a 24-hour ceasefire, from this evening, after pressure from US Secretary of State Antony Blinken over the deadly fighting that saw shots fired at a US diplomatic convoy.

The ceasefire will start at 6pm (4pm GMT) and will not extend beyond the agreed 24 hours, Army General Shams El Din Kabbashi, a member of Sudan's ruling military council, said on al Arabiya TV.

Mr Blinken held separate calls with the rival commanders - the army chief and the head of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) - whose power struggle derailed an internationally-backed plan to shift to civilian rule after decades of autocracy and military control.

Blinken, speaking in Japan, said he had telephoned both RSF leader General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, and General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, appealing for the 24-hour ceasefire "to allow the Sudanese to be safely reunited with families" and to provide them with relief.

The Secretary of State said a US convoy was attacked despite the vehicles being marked with diplomatic license plates and bearing American flags. Initial reports suggest the attack was undertaken by forces associated with the RSF, he said, calling the action "reckless". Blinken said all US personnel were safe after the incident.

After the call, Hemedti said the RSF approved the ceasefire to ensure the safe passage of civilians and the evacuation of the wounded.

In a post on Twitter, Hemedti said he had "discussed pressing issues" with Blinken and more talks were planned. The RSF also issued a statement saying it was waging a battle to restore "the rights of our people" in what it called a new revolution.

Hemedti's whereabouts have not been disclosed since fighting began.

A previous shorter ceasefire agreed for Sunday was not fully observed. Artillery volleys, strikes by combat aircraft and street fighting have made it almost impossible to travel in Khartoum, trapping residents and foreigners in their homes.

The main international airport has been under attack, halting commercial flights.

Fighters have attacked aid workers, hospitals and diplomats, including EU Ambassador Aidan OHara. Three workers for the World Food Programme were killed in the fighting on Saturday, and a UN plane was hit in crossfire.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies said it was nearly impossible to provide humanitarian services around the capital. It warned that Sudan's health system was at risk of breakdown.

Additional reporting by Reuters.
Geoff Norris, 55, who works for the Asda store in Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, said it means the world to him to be able to attend both events.

A supermarket driver who delivered shopping to vulnerable people during the coronavirus lockdown is flying back from a holiday in Greece for his sons wedding to attend the Kings coronation.

Geoff Norris, 55, who works for the Asda store in Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, received an invitation to the Westminster Abbey ceremony on May 6, having been awarded the British Empire Medal in 2020 for his services to the Covid-19 response.

However, he realised this would come in the middle of a family holiday on the island Kos from May 3, ahead of his son Anthonys wedding a week later, where he will be best man.

Mr Norris said: When I received the invitation from the Cabinet Office I felt very, very proud and very, very honoured.

I obviously accepted straight away, but the panic set in as soon as I realised I was going to be out of the country, but I had to be at both occasions, I couldnt miss this opportunity to be at the coronation of King Charles III and I certainly couldnt miss my sons wedding.

Mr Norris, who used his own car on his days off to make sure elderly and vulnerable customers got their shopping during lockdown, contacted travel operator Tui to see if he could fly back in time.

He said: The Tui website said it was going to cost 1,000 to make any changes. But I phoned and explained my situation, which they treated as exceptional circumstances.

I have to say, their staff went above and beyond to try and help, but unfortunately the scenarios offered didnt quite accommodate what I needed.

So a friends son, Jason Duke, who is a British Airways pilot, sorted flights that work perfectly out of his own pocket, which is very generous of him.

I can now be at both events, which means the world to me.

Mr Norris will fly back to London on the evening of May 5 before returning to Greece a day after the coronation.

He added: I want to publicly thank everyone, and the companies involved, for all their help, kindness and generosity.

During the pandemic, we only ever set out to help the elderly or vulnerable.

Three years later, it is going to be an honour to represent my colleagues, customers and the community at such a memorable occasion.

More than 450 British Empire Medal (BEM) recipients will be at the service.
Ralph Yarl, a Black 16-year-old who was shot and wounded by a homeowner after mistakenly going to the wrong house to pick up his siblings Photo: Lee Merritt/via Reuters

Black teenager Ralph Yarl was shot by a white homeowner after he accidentally rang the doorbell at the wrong address while going to collect his brothers.

The 16-year-olds interaction with the suspect in the Northland suburb of Kansas City quickly turned violent and the high school student was left hospitalised with serious injuries.

Ralph Yarl, a Black 16-year-old who was shot and wounded by a homeowner after mistakenly going to the wrong house to pick up his siblings Photo: Lee Merritt/via Reuters

Instead of going to a home in the 1100 block of Northeast 115th Street he instead went to Northeast 115th Terrace in Kansas City, Missouri, police said.

Now prosecutors have brought charges against the homeowner, Andrew D Lester.

Here is everything we know about the suspect.

Prosecutors charge Andrew D Lester

On April 17 prosecutors announced that they had filed charges against an 85-year-old white man named Andrew D Lester for the shooting of Ralph Yarl.

Clay County prosecutor Zachary Thompson confirmed in a press conference that there was a racial component to the case but would not give details on what had caused him to come to that conclusion.

Prosecutors charged Andrew D Lester with assault in the first degree, which carries a punishment of 10 to 30 years or life imprisonment. He has also been charged with armed criminal action, which carries a punishment of 3 to 15 years.

Mr Thompson said that a bond has been set of $200,000 but that the suspect is not yet in custody.

Court documents lay out what happened

A witness told police that they saw a vehicle pull into Mr Lesters driveway at around 9.30pm.

Mr Lester told investigators that he had just lain down when the doorbell rang, he picked up a .32 pistol and opened the interior door of his house.

He told police that he was a Black male pulling on the exterior door and thought he was trying to break into the property.

Mr Lester says that he fired twice and that no words were exchanged with the victim.

During an informal police interview at Childrens Mercy Hospital, the teenager said that he did not pull the door and was waiting outside.

He told investigators that a man opened the door and immediately shot him, causing him to fall to the ground where he was shot for a second time.

Mr Yarl told police the man said, Dont come around here.

Prosecutor says there was racial component to shooting

As the prosecutor for Clay County, I can tell you that there was a racial component to the caseI dont want to comment on specifics of the case to protect its integrity, said Clay County prosecutor Zachary Thompson.

Yarl had not entered the home when Lester allegedly shot him through a glass door, Mr Thompson said.
The 24-hour truce, reported by several Arab media outlets, was due to start at 6pm local time.

Heavy fighting was still under way in Sudan on Tuesday hours after an internationally brokered truce was supposed to have come into effect, as forces loyal to dueling generals battled for key locations in the capital and accused each other of violating the ceasefire.

The truce, reported by several Arab media outlets, was to begin Tuesday at 6pm local time, but heavy fighting continued raging.

Residents said they still heard gunfire and explosions in different parts of Khartoum, particularly around the militarys headquarters and the Republican Palace, the seat of power. They said few people had ventured out, though there were crowds outside some bakeries.

The fighting remains under way, Atiya Abdulla Atiya of the Sudan Doctors Syndicate told The Associated Press. We are hearing constant gunfire.

Both generals are backed by tens of thousands of heavily armed troops who have been battling across the capital, Khartoum, and elsewhere in Sudan since Saturday.

The violence has killed at least 185 people, wounded hundreds more and raised the specter of civil war in Africas third largest country.

Millions of Sudanese in the capital and in other major cities have been hiding in their homes, caught in the crossfire as the two forces battle for control, with rival generals so far insisting they will crush the other.

Satellite channels Al-Arabiya and Al-Jazeera had reports citing the top military officer Shams El Din Kabbashi as saying that the military would comply with the ceasefire.

Earlier, CNN Arabic also said in a report, citing the head of the countrys military, General Abdel Fattah Burhan, that the military would be party to the day-long truce.

The development came a day after a US Embassy convoy came under fire and forces of the two rivals pounded each other for a fourth day with heavy weapons.

The attack on the convoy in Khartoum, along with an assault on the EU envoys residence and the shelling of the Norwegian ambassadors home, signalled a further descent into chaos in the country.

The convoy of clearly marked US Embassy vehicles was attacked on Monday, and preliminary reports linked the assailants to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), the paramilitary group battling Sudans military, US secretary of state Antony Blinken told reporters. Everyone in the convoy was safe, he said.

More than 185 people have been killed and more than 1,800 wounded since fighting began on Saturday, according to UN figures, which did not include a breakdown of civilians and combatants.

The Sudan Doctors Syndicate said on Tuesday that at least 144 civilians were killed and more than 1,400 were wounded.

The overall death toll could be much higher because clashes in Khartoum have prevented the removal of bodies in some areas.

The State Department said late on Monday that Mr Blinken spoke by phone separately with the two rival generals  armed forces chief, General Burhan, and RSF leader General Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo.

I made very clear that any attacks or threats or dangers posed to our diplomats were totally unacceptable, Mr Blinken told reporters at the Group of Seven wealthy nations meeting in Japan on Tuesday. He appealed for an immediate 24-hour ceasefire as a foundation for a longer truce and a return to negotiations.

General Dagalo said in a series of tweets on Tuesday that he had approved a 24-hour humanitarian truce after speaking to Mr Blinken.

More tanks and armoured vehicles belonging to the military rolled into Khartoum early on Tuesday, heading towards the militarys headquarters and the Republican Palace, the seat of power, residents said.

During the night, fighter jets swooped overhead and anti-aircraft fire lit up the skies.

Fighting resumed early on Tuesday around each sides main bases and at strategic government buildings  all of which are in residential areas.

Video from the Arab TV network Al-Arabiya showed a large explosion near the main military headquarters in central Khartoum that raised a giant cloud of smoke and dust.

Satellite images from Maxar Technologies taken on Monday showed damage across Khartoum, including to security service buildings. Tanks stood guard at a bridge over the White Nile River and other locations in the Sudanese capital.

Satellite images from Planet Labs PBC, also taken on Monday, showed 20 damaged civilian and military aircraft at Khartoum International Airport, which has a military section.

Some had been completely destroyed, with one still belching smoke. At the El Obeid and Merowe air bases, north and south of Khartoum, several fighter jets were among the destroyed aircraft.

The violence has raised the spectre of civil war just as the Sudanese were trying to revive the drive for a democratic, civilian government after decades of military rule.

Each side already has tens of thousands of troops distributed around the districts of Khartoum and the city of Omdurman on the opposite bank of the Nile River. That has brought the fighting and chaos  with gunbattles, artillery barrages and air strikes  to the doorsteps of the cities terrified residents.
The debt-laden cinema chain said bid proposals did not meet the valuations needed by its lenders.

Shares were down by more than 7% at one stage on Tuesday morning on the London market (Gareth Fuller/PA)

Troubled Cineworld has scrapped plans to sell its businesses outside the UK, US and Ireland in the latest twist in its saga after the cinema chain went bankrupt last year.

The debt-ridden business said it had abandoned the sale of its businesses in Eastern Europe and Israel  which together form its rest of the world division  saying the proposals put forward by suitors did not meet the value level required by the groups lenders.

It comes after the worlds second-biggest cinema group ditched the sale process for its UK, US and Ireland businesses earlier this month after failing to find a buyer and unveiled a restructuring that is set to wipe out shareholders.

The plan aims to reorganise its five billion US dollars (4 billion) debt pile in order to exit the Chapter 11 bankruptcy during the first half of this year.

Cineworld filed for a Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the US last year, allowing it to reorganise its debts and assets to have a fresh start, while remaining in business.

But the groups restructuring means shareholder investments would not be rescued under the plans.

Cineworld and its brands around the world - including Regal, Cinema City, Picturehouse and Planet - are continuing to welcome customers to cinemas as usual Cineworld

Shares, which have already plunged to record lows, were down by more than 7% at one stage on Tuesday morning on the London market.

Its shares have plummeted by more than 99% over the past five years, after being hit hard by the pandemic which forced it to close some of its cinemas.

The companys rest of the world business covers Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Bulgaria, Romania and Israel.

The division was not under bankruptcy protection.

Cineworlds recovery plans include cutting its debt mountain by around 4.53 billion US dollars (3.6 billion) and raising 2.26 billion US dollars (1.8 billion) in new funding.

Cineworld has insisted that the debt restructuring will not affect its 750 cinemas globally, saying it will be business as usual across the sites.

It said: Cineworld and its brands around the world  including Regal, Cinema City, Picturehouse and Planet  are continuing to welcome customers to cinemas as usual.

The group continues to honour the terms of all existing customer membership programmes, including Regal Unlimited and Regal Crown Club in the United States and Cineworld Unlimited in the United Kingdom.
Agency was boosted by budget changes

UK prime minister Rishi Sunak is under investigation after facing allegations of a possible failure to declare the shares his wife holds in a childcare agency that was boosted by the budget.

Parliaments standards watchdog opened the inquiry into Mr Sunak under rules demanding MPs are open and frank when declaring their interests.

The investigation relates to the shares Akshata Murty holds in Koru Kids, a Downing Street source told the PA news agency yesterday. No 10 said Mr Sunak will clarify how it was declared as a ministerial interest, rather than to the Commons.

As MPs returned from their Easter break, an update from parliamentary commissioner for standards Daniel Greenberg showed he had opened the investigation under the Commons code of conduct on Thursday.

Members must always be open and frank in declaring any relevant interest in any proceeding of the House or its committees, and in any communications with ministers, members, public officials or public office holders, the relevant section reads.

No, all my disclosures are declared in the normal way

Downing Street declined to set out when Mr Sunak registered the interest, but a No 10 spokeswoman said: We are happy to assist the commissioner to clarify how this has been transparently declared as a ministerial interest.

Mr Sunak faced demands to come clean about his family shares last month after being questioned by MPs over why the childcare policy favoured private firms.

Appearing before the Liaison Committee, he did not mention Ms Murtys shares in the firm, in which she has been listed as a shareholder on Companies House.

UK PM Rishi Sunak with his wife Akshata Murthy. Photo: Ian West/PA

A fortnight earlier, chancellor Jeremy Hunt announced a pilot of incentive payments of 600 (680) for childminders joining the profession. Questioning why the sum doubles to 1,200 if workers sign up through an agency, Labour MP Catherine McKinnell asked if Mr Sunak had any interests to declare.

No, all my disclosures are declared in the normal way, Mr Sunak said.

Koru Kids, which is one of six childminder agencies listed on the governments website, welcomed the new incentives in the budget as great.

At the time the possible conflict of interest emerged, Mr Sunaks press secretary said the interest would be included in the updated statement of ministers interests, due out in May.

But it seems Mr Greenbergs investigation appears to centre on whether the prime minister should have declared the interest to MPs.

The delay has left a transparency black hole which is enabling the prime minister and those he has appointed to dodge proper scrutiny of their affairs

Mr Sunak wrote to the Liaison Committee earlier this month to say he would like to clarify for the parliamentary record that this interest has rightly been declared to the Cabinet Office.

He said the new list of ministerial interests, which has not been updated for nearly a year, would be published shortly.

Deputy Labour leader Angela Rayner said the delay has left a transparency black hole which is enabling the prime minister and those he has appointed to dodge proper scrutiny of their affairs.

If Rishi Sunak has got nothing to hide, he should commit to publishing the register before Mays elections so the public can see for themselves, she added.

It was last compiled by Christopher Geidt, who resigned as Boris Johnsons ethics adviser after a tumultuous period under the then-prime minister.

Mr Sunak did not appoint a successor as ministerial interests adviser until December, when Laurie Magnus took on the role.

The prime minister entered No 10 in October promising integrity, professionalism and accountability at every level.

He has since been fined by police for not wearing a seatbelt, adding to the fixed-penalty notice he was handed for a lockdown breach alongside Mr Johnson.
Kremlin critic Vladimir Kara-Murza was jailed for 25 years by a Moscow court yesterday, the harshest sentence of its kind since Russia invaded Ukraine, after being convicted of treason and other offences in a trial he said was politically motivated.

Kara-Murza (41), a father of three and an opposition politician who holds Russian and British passports, spoke out against Russian president Vladimir Putin for years and successfully lobbied Western governments to impose sanctions on Russia and individual Russians for purported human rights violations.

State prosecutors, who had requested a 25-year term, had accused him of treason, among other offences, and of discrediting the Russian military after spreading knowingly false information about its conduct in what Moscow calls its special military operation in Ukraine.

His sentence was the harshest handed down to a Kremlin critic since Putin came to power in 1999.

In a CNN interview broadcast hours before his arrest, Kara-Murza, whose family home is in Washington and who had returned to Moscow to campaign against the war, alleged that Russia was run by a regime of murderers.

He had also used speeches in the United States and Europe to accuse Russia of bombing civilians in Ukraine, a charge Moscow has rejected.

After hearing he had been ordered to spend the next quarter of a century in a maximum-security penal colony, Kara-Murza, who had calmly listened to proceedings inside a glass courtroom cage, declared Russia will be free, an opposition slogan.

He also smiled and  according to one of his lawyers, Maria Eismont  said that he regarded the harsh sentence as recognition of his work. When he heard hed got 25 years he said: My self-esteem has gone up, I understand that I did everything right. Its the highest score I could have got for what I did, for what I believed in as a citizen and a patriot, she said.

His wife, Evgenia, echoed that sentiment on Twitter, likening his lengthy jail term to an A+ for courage, consistency and honesty. I am infinitely proud of you, my love, and Im always by your side, she wrote.

Separately, she told a Washington Post event that the sentence showed how much the Russian authorities feared her husband.

In his final speech in court last week, Kara-Murza compared his trial, held behind closed doors, to Joseph Stalins show trials in the 1930s. He declined to ask the court to acquit him, saying he was proud of everything he had said and done.

Ms Eismont, who said her client had not been allowed to speak to his children by phone for nearly a year, said Kara-Murzas team would appeal against yesterdays verdict, which she said had been marred by legal violations.

The Kremlin, when asked about the verdict, said it did not comment on court decisions. A prominent state TV host said Kara-Murza had got what he deserved.

Britain  which in 2020 imposed sanctions on the judge presiding over the case for alleged human rights violations  said it had summoned the Russian ambassador to protest over what was a politically-motivated conviction.

Outside the court, British ambassador Deborah Bronnert said Kara-Murza had been punished for bravely speaking out against Russias war in Ukraine and demanded his release.
Ukrainian servicemen return from heavy fighting amid Russias attack on Ukraine, close to Bakhmut, Ukraine, last Saturday. Photo: Kai Pfaffenbach/Reuters

A top Ukrainian official said on Monday that Ukraine will launch its counteroffensive against Russian troops when its ready, adding that its only a matter of time before the country achieves the necessary level of military preparedness to do so.

Oleksiy Danilov, the secretary of Ukraines National Security and Defence Council, told The Associated Press in an interview in Kyiv that Ukraines allies are helping the government to achieve the level of technical equipment necessary to launch the attack, delivering heavy armoured vehicles and ammunition.

But he also expressed frustration that sometimes officials from allied countries promise one thing and do a completely different one. He didnt elaborate.

If we arent ready, then nobody will start unprepared, he said. Speaking about a major US intelligence leak, Danilov echoed other Ukrainian leaders who say they dont see it as gravely damaging future offensives, stressing that Ukraine doesnt share highly sensitive information with anyone.

If someone thinks that we report to someone, then he is deeply mistaken, he said.

Such sensitive security matters are decided in closed meetings with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and only there will it be decided when, in what direction, at what pace we will liberate our territory, he added.

The documents include previously unreported sensitive disclosures about Ukraine, including just how close Ukraines vital air defence systems are to running out of missiles, with stocks expected to be exhausted as soon as late this month or May.

That would open Ukraines skies to more of the Russian air and artillery strikes that already have devastated cities and infrastructure.

Danilov refused to comment on Ukraines current stockpiles of weapons, saying only that it will be enough to curb Russia.

Still, he said that Ukraine was working round the clock to prepare for a possible offensive, including Saturday and Sunday. There is no vacation in war.

Its only a matter of time. This time comes with a very high price for us, he said.

Danilov stopped short of confirming that the Patriot air defence system promised by the US has arrived in Ukraine, but strongly hinted that they have.

Asked to comment on statements by Ukrainian air force spokesperson Yuriy Ihnat last week in which he said that the Patriots was expected in Ukraine sometime after Easter, he said: Well, Easter has passed already.

The answer to your question is simple: everything is good, he added.

Russias war in Ukraine has turned into a stalemate amid heavy fighting in the countrys east, particularly around the town of Bakhmut which for eight and a half months has been the stage for the wars longest and bloodiest fight.

Bakhmut lies in Donetsk province, one of four provinces Russia illegally annexed last fall.

Moscow controls about half of the province. Bakhmut is a stepping stone to seizing the remaining half.

Ukrainian officials have said theyre buying time by depleting Russian forces in the battle while Kyiv prepares a counteroffensive.

Zelenskyy argues that if Russia wins the Bakhmut battle, Russian President Vladimir Putin might be able to begin building international support for a deal that would require Ukraine to make unacceptable compromises to end the war.

Danilov is confident that it not only turned the tiny settlement into the place the whole world speaks about, but proves its extremely hard to conquer Ukraine by military means for Russia.

He also remains confident in Ukraines efforts to return to its occupied territories.

We will defeat Russia, he said. If you have a strong inner spirit, you will definitely win.

And we always had it strong. This is something that always annoyed the Russians.
One of the finest comedies to emerge in recent years is Scottish. Scot Squad, made by BBC Scotland, is a mockumentary about the unified Police Scotland force, with an especially strong performance by Jack Docherty as chief commissioner Cameron Miekelson, a man whose incompetence is matched only by his pomposity.
Lloyds Banking Group said fundraising will support Crisis to develop and launch a new not-for-profit lettings agency.

A not-for-profit lettings agency will be rolled out as part of an initiative to help tackle affordable homes shortages (Joe Giddens/PA)

A not-for-profit lettings agency will be rolled out as part of an initiative to help tackle affordable homes shortages.

Lloyds Banking Group and homelessness charity Crisis have joined forces in a new two-year partnership.

Lloyds said fundraising will support Crisis to develop and launch a new not-for-profit lettings agency.

To do this, Crisis will partner with and draw on the successes of Scotland-based social enterprise lettings agency Homes for Good, to help make renting easier and more affordable.

Homes For Good was founded in 2013 to improve conditions in the private rented sector for tenants and landlords and to support people on low incomes to access quality homes in the private rental sector.

A good home is a fundamental human need, and yet the reality is a chronic lack of affordable housing in the UK Charlie Nunn, Lloyds Banking Group

The new agency will aim to match and support both tenants and landlords and avoid poor and exclusionary practices.

For example, people who are homeless will not be asked to provide rent in advance, will not need to meet strict reference requirements, and will not need to provide guarantors. Profits from the agency will be reinvested into supporting people experiencing homelessness to find good quality, affordable homes.

The lettings agency will start operating in London later this year with the ambition to roll it out across Britain, Lloyds said.

As part of the new two-year partnership, Lloyds and Crisis are also calling for one million new social homes to be built in the next decade.

Lloyds Banking Group said it has provided nearly 15 billion in financing to the social housing sector since 2018, supporting more than 200 housing associations across the UK.

Our new lettings agency will mean we can help people experiencing homelessness directly into a safe, settled homes Matt Downie, Crisis

Charlie Nunn, chief executive at Lloyds Banking Group, said: A good home is a fundamental human need, and yet the reality is a chronic lack of affordable housing in the UK.

This means there are too many people trapped in a cycle of temporary accommodation, or living in poor, sometimes dangerous conditions. This cannot be right and is why today we are announcing our new partnership with Crisis  calling for one million new social homes to be built by 2033, with the clear focus on helping people who are most at risk of homelessness.

Matt Downie, chief executive at Crisis, said: Our new partnership with Lloyds Banking Group will ensure we can take the bold action that is desperately needed to begin tackling the biggest issue facing the people we support  the chronic shortage of good quality, affordable housing.

Our new lettings agency will mean we can help people experiencing homelessness directly into a safe, settled homes, the essential foundation they need to rebuild their lives.
Several German media outlets reported that the vehicles involved in the pile-up belonged to the US military.

Damaged military vehicles are seen on the side of the A6 highway near Amberg, Germany following an accident on Monday, April 17, 2023 (Haubner/dpa via AP/PA)

Seven soldiers were injured after armoured military vehicles crashed into each other on a Bavarian highway, German police said.

Several German media outlets reported that the vehicles involved in the crash on Monday belonged to the US military, but German police said they were not authorised to give out information on the nationality of the injured soldiers.

The public affairs office for the US Army Europe and Africa in Germany did not immediately return calls seeking confirmation.

According to initial findings, seven soldiers were injured and brought to hospital, two of them via rescue helicopter Amberg police

Police in Amberg in southern Germany said that a military convoy was driving on the A6 highway on manoeuvre duty, and that for still unknown reasons a rear-end collision involving four armoured vehicles occurred.

According to initial findings, seven soldiers were injured and brought to hospital, two of them via rescue helicopter, Tobias Mattes from Amberg police said in a statement, adding that one of the soldiers was in a serious condition.

The crash occurred at around 10.55am local time on the highway stretch between the Sulzbach-Rosenberg and Amberg-West junctions in the direction toward the Czech Republic.

The highway was blocked until the late afternoon.

Amberg is 40 kilometres (25 miles) south of the US Army Garrison Bavaria in Grafenwoehr.
The attack occurred in the old city of Duisburg and police asked residents to avoid the area.

Armed police officers in front of a health club in Duisburg, Germany (Christoph Reichwein/dpa via AP)

At least four people have been injured in an attack at a gym in the western German city of Duisburg, police said.

Tuesday evenings attack occurred in the old city of Duisburg and police asked residents to avoid the area.

According to current information, one person has injured other people with an object at a gym, Duisburg police tweeted.

The situation is currently still confusing.

Police said a large number of officers were at the scene.

German news agency dpa reported that several people were severely injured.

It was not immediately clear how many people were injured and the attacker appeared to still be on the loose, dpa reported.

Police said they received the first emergency calls at about 5.40pm local time.

Several victims were taken to hospital, while investigators searched the gym and questioned witnesses to the attack, dpa said.

Several witnesses to the attack, some still with their sports bags, were taken to a nearby restaurant so police could question them.

The president of the German parliament, Baerbel Bas, who is from Duisburg, expressed shock over the attack.

Terrible. My thoughts are with the injured, Ms Bas tweeted. I hope that the emergency services will soon be able to clear up the threatening situation.
Image Credit:Twitter/Hiroshi Suzuki, Ambassador of Japan

Imphal/IBNS: The Governments of Japan and the northeastern state of Manipur in India have come to an agreement to initiate new projects for the Manipuri youths.

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh and Japan delegate Suzuki Hiroshi, Ambassador of Japan to India, held talks regarding several developmental matters pertaining to Manipur and Japan, reported Northeast Now.

Both parties expressed their commitment to strengthening the amicable relationship between Japan and Manipur.

These projects aim to provide better job opportunities for Manipuri youths, including skilling programs, that could potentially lead to employment in Japan or other regions of the world.

The Japanese Ambassador paid a visit to the office of the Manipur Chief Minister, where they held a meeting on Thursday.

The Chief Minister stated on a Facebook post, I was called on by Mr. Suzuki Hiroshi, Ambassador of Japan to India at my secretariat office today.

Had a fruitful discussion concerning various projects in Manipur, including skilling of Manipuri youths to provide them better job opportunities in Japan and other parts of the world," he wrote.

The Chief Minister expressed gratitude for Japan's cordial approach in maintaining its alliance and dedication towards the progress of Manipur.

Additionally, he urged the Japanese envoy to oversee the progress of the second phase of Japan's sericulture project. It was reported that the initial Japanese sericulture initiative in Manipur had yielded positive results.

Manipur has had a close relationship with Japan since the Second World War.

Maibam Lokpa Ching, a hillock located approximately 14 km from Imphal, is a significant location in Manipur's history. This is where the Japanese Army engaged in intense warfare against the British Army of the Allied forces during World War II.

Nowadays, the site is home to a peace memorial that draws many tourists.
Image credit: Photo by naman srivastava on Unsplash

New Delhi/IBNS: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be inaugurating the Global Buddhist Summit to be held in New Delhi on April 20 and 21 this year.

G. Kishan Reddy, Union Minister of Culture, in a press conference held at the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts in context to Global Buddhist Summit, said that his department will be hosting this event in collaboration with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC); it is part of the Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav.

The theme of the two day Global Buddhist Summit is Responses to Contemporary Challenges from Philosophy to Praxis.

Reddy said that contemporary challenges of the world can be dealt with the teachings emanating out of Buddhism which was born in India and disseminated to different parts of the world.



He said that Buddhism is part of Indias cultural diplomacy and is relevant in drawing out cultural linkages of the world with India.

He cited the example of PM Modi laying down the foundation stone for Buddhas monument in Nepal during visit to this Himalayan kingdom.

The Union Culture Minister also said that the Union Ministry of Tourism and Culture along with the state governments is facilitating many activities pertaining to Buddhism.

Abhijit Halder, Director General, International Buddhist Confederation said that in the Global Buddhist Summit, academicians, eminent scholars, venerable monks, and Dhamma practitioners from all over the world will discuss todays pressing global issues and look for answers in the Buddha Dhamma (in Pali) that is based on universal values.



According to Halder, 171 delegates from 30 countries, including Vietnam, Sri Lanka, the United States, Germany and South East Asian countries, Laos, Mexico, Brazil and others will take part in the Global Buddhist Summit; 150 delegates from Indian Buddhist organizations are expected to take part in the Summit.



He also said that the broad themes of the Global Buddhist Summit will be under four sub-themes namely,  Buddha Dhamma and Peace, Buddha Dhamma: Environmental Crisis, Health and Sustainability, Preservation of Nalanda Buddhist Traditions, Principles of Dhamma and World Peace.

IBC, in collaboration with Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) has done several events in the past like presentation of Mongolian Kanjur to the representatives of different countries and a Map Model Exhibition on Buddha during IGNCAs 36th foundation day celebrations.
Image Credit: Unsplash

Kashmir/IBNS: The Mutton Dealers Association has reported that the number of trucks arriving in Kashmir on a daily basis is currently between 30-35, but is expected to increase to 160 ahead of Eid.

However, some individuals have expressed concern over the high cost of mutton, which is being sold at prices ranging from Rs 650 to Rs 700 per kilogram, reported Good Morning Kashmir.

Despite the fluctuation in mutton prices, there has been a surge in demand for mutton in the Valley.

As of now, over 800 truckloads of sheep have been consumed during the holy month of Ramdhan.

Nearly 30-35 trucks loaded with sheep arrive in Kashmir on a regular basis in the past 27 days of Ramadan, Mehraj ud Din, General Secretary of Mutton Dealers Association, stated to KNO news agency.

According to him, there is an adequate supply of mutton in Kashmir.

He also mentioned that the only way a mutton shortage would occur is if the highway were too close due to the current weather conditions, thereby preventing vehicular movement.

Additionally, the General Secretary of the association stated that since the start of Ramadan, a total of 811 trucks carrying sheep have already arrived in Kashmir.

30-35 trucks arrive in Kashmir on a daily basis. The number of trucks ahead of Eid will go up to 160 a day, he said.

Furthermore, consumers are still expressing their dissatisfaction with the high price of mutton, which ranges from Rs 650 to Rs 700 per kilogram.

They have also stated that there appears to be a lack of oversight, as mutton dealers and butchers seem to have free rein to overcharge customers.

A consumer told Good Morning Kashmir, the confusion over the purpose of a rate list if it is not enforced, and criticized the authorities for their inaction against mutton dealers who overcharge customers.

The consumer also mentioned that previous attempts to crackdown on mutton dealers have not been effective.
Image Credit: UNI

Bengaluru/UNI: Is history repeating itself? This is the moot question dogging the people of Karnataka when BJP heavyweight Jagadish Shettar said goodbye to the saffron party, and joined the Congress after he was denied a ticket to contest from Hubballi-Dharwad Central constituency, which he kept it for himself since 1994.

Twenty-four years back, the situation of BJP leader BB Shivappa, who built the party along with BS Yediyurappa and others, is similar to that of Shettar's in the present day.

Shettar has been complaining about the party humiliating him by not giving him a ticket, Shivappa did the same after the party chose Shettar to become the Leader of the Opposition in the state assembly in 1999, ignoring Shivappa as Yediyurappa and KS Eshwarappa had lost the assembly election.

This angered Shivappa's supporters who pelted stones at the newly-inaugurated BJP office in the city where the process of selection of LoP was held.

This unruly behaviour of his supporters cost Shivappa dearly, and was expelled from the party, prompting him to join the Congress.

Shivappa asked similar questions as Shettar is asking today before joining the Congress. Shivappa had asked why the party overlooked his seniority and the distinction of building the party step by step.

Interestingly, both the leaders belong to the dominant Lingayat community. Shivappa had then publicly blamed Yediyurappa, who had lost the assembly election, and Ananth Kumar for denying the coveted post, and now Shettar is blaming a few leaders in the state party unit.

Shivappa later returned to the BJP fold, but nursed the regret of missing out on being the Leader of the Opposition until his death in 2017.

Meanwhile, BJP insiders claim that the exit of Shettar will not have any bearing on the party because the Hubballi-Dharwad Central constituency has been the fortress of the BJP since 1994.

They also claim that Shettars political influence is confined to Hubballi, though the Congress is building up an anti-Lingayat attitude of the BJP.

In an immediate move, National BJP President JP Nadda is visiting Hubballi today to stymie Shettar's bid to woo prominent BJP workers and office-bearers.

The Hubballi-Dharwad Central constituency is a BJP bastion. From 1957 when the first elections were held there, it had been a Congress bastion for four elections. Then the Janata Party made it its fortress. In 1989, the seat was won again by the Congress. But since 1994, it has been with the BJP.

Interestingly, this constituency has produced two chief ministers. In 1998, Janata Party's SR Bommai became the chief minister, and in 2012, BJP's Shettar became.
Image Credit: Twitter/Yogi Adityanath

Lucknow: In the latest development in the Atiq Ahmed murder case, his lawyer has revealed that the gangster-politician had written a letter to UP CM Yogi Adityanath and CJI DY Chandrachud to be given to them if he was assassinated, media reports said.

His lawyer Vijay Mishra has revealed that the letter is in a sealed envelope and he is not aware of its contents, according to a report in the media.

Mishra said the letter was not with him and is being sent by some other person to the addressees, the report added.

Atiq Ahmad (60) and his brother Ashraf, both incarcerated in connection with Umesh Pal murder case, were shot dead on Saturday by three men posing as journalists in close range while being taken for medical examination to Prayagrajs Colvin Medical College and Hospital in police custody.

The shooting occurred hours later the last rites of Ahmad's son Asad, who was gunned down in a police encounter in Jhansi on April 13, were performed here.

The news of Atiqs letter comes a day after, his lawyer told news agency ANI that AshrafAtiqs brother also assassinated with himhad told that the letter contains the name of a senior police official who had boasted the brothers would be taken out of jail and eliminated.

Mishra told ANI that Ashraf did not reveal the name of the police official as the information could land him trouble.

Ashraf had told him a 'sealed envelope' would be delivered to the chief justices of the Supreme Court and the Allahabad High Court.

A copy will also be sent to the chief minister of UP, he said.

The shooting took place in front of media cameras amid a heavy police cover.

The video of the horrific killing went viral on social media.

The perpetrators did not try to escape and were apprehended right after the incident.

Image Credit: Video grab

The Uttar Pradesh government has established a three-member judicial committee to probe the murder of Atiq Ahmed, amidst intense criticism of the incident. The state police, which has also faced harsh criticism, will also investigate the case.

The reports are due in two months time.

A plea has been filed in the Supreme Court seeking an independent inquiry into 183 encounters that have taken place in Uttar Pradesh in the past six years, including the recent killings of gangster-turned-politician Atiq Ahmad and his son Asad.

The plea also challenges the appointment of an inquiry committee by the UP government, which has been criticised for its handling of the case.

Atiq Ahmed and his son Asad were among the accused in Umesh Pal, who was murdered in February. Pal was a witness to the murder of a Bahujan Samaj Party leader Raju Pal in 2005.
Image Credit: UNI

New Delhi: The Centre and Gujarat government is likely to oppose a Supreme Court order requesting records related to the release of convicts in the Bilkis Bano gang rape case. The government has stated that it does not want to provide documents linked to the release of 11 convicts in the case, citing "privilege," NDTV reported.

Bilkis Bano, whose seven family members were also killed during the 2002 Gujarat riots, challenged the premature release of the rapists, stating that the remission of sentence has "shaken the conscience of society".

On March 27, the Supreme Court directed the Gujarat government and the centre to present the documents related to the remission of sentence of 11 convicts in the Bilkis Bano gang-rape case.

The Court expressed concern over the remission granted to the convicts during their incarceration and pointed out that the severity of the crime should have been considered by the state.

However, the government has indicated that it does not want to disclose the files citing "privilege".

The Supreme Court told the Centre that it was not appropriate to compare the victim's case with standard Section 302 cases of the Indian Penal Code, as crimes are generally committed against society and the community, according to report in the media.

It highlighted that a pregnant woman was gang-raped and several people were killed in the case under consideration.

The apex court termed the incident as a massacre and maintained that it cannot be compared to a single murder, as unequals cannot be treated equally, the report stated.

The top court further stated that it is important to know the basis and reasoning behind the government's decision to grant remission in the Bilkis Bano case.

The court emphasised that this decision could have an impact on any citizen. Today it is Bilkis but tomorrow it can be anyone. It may be you or me, the court underscored and thus it is crucial to be transparent about the reasons for granting remission.

The court warned that if the government fails to provide proper reasons for the remission, the court will have to draw its own conclusions.

On March 27, the Supreme Court criticized the Gujarat government for its handling of the Bilkis Bano gang-rape case and the murder of her family members, calling it a "horrendous" act.

The court raised concerns over whether uniform standards, as followed in other murder cases, were applied while granting remission to the 11 convicts.

Bano was 21 years old and five months pregnant when she was gang-raped while fleeing the riots that occurred after the Godhra train burning incident. Her three-year-old daughter was among the seven family members who were killed.

Recently, a BJP MP and an MLA were seen sharing a stage with one of the 11 men who had received remission of his sentence in the Bilkis Bano gang-rape case, during a government program in Gujarat.
Facebook/Yogi Adityanath

Lucknow/IBNS: Days after the shocking murders of gangster Atiq Ahmed and his brother Ashraf that prompted a wave of criticism over Uttar Pradesh's law and order situation, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Tuesday said no mafia or criminal can threaten industrialists in his state.

The Chief Minister made the remark while addressing an event to mark the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for setting up textile parks in Lucknow and Hardoi districts.

"Now, a professional criminal or a mafia cannot threaten an industrialist over the phone," he said as the audience broke into a round of applause.

"Uttar Pradesh was notorious for riots. Just the names of many districts scared people. Now there is no need to be scared," the Chief Minister said.

Taking a dig at the previous Akhilesh Yadav-led government, Adityanath said the state witnessed more than 700 riots between 2012 and 2017.

"But not a single riot broke out in UP between 2017 and 2023, no curfew was imposed. That situation did not arise. And this is the most conducive opportunity to invest and set up industries," he said.

Adityanath said Uttar Pradesh now "guarantees effective law and order arrangements".

His remarks came in the aftermath of the shocking murders of gangster-politician Atiq Ahmed and brother Ashraf outside a Prayagraj hospital Saturday night.

Atiq Ahmed (60) and his brother Ashraf, both incarcerated in connection with Umesh Pal murder case, were shot dead on Saturday by three men posing as journalists in close range while being taken for medical examination to Prayagrajs Colvin Medical College and Hospital in police custody.

Earlier in the day, it was revealed that Atiq Ahmed had written a letter to UP CM Yogi Adityanath and CJI DY Chandrachud, to be given to them, if he was assassinated, media reports said.

His lawyer Vijay Mishra has revealed that the letter is in a sealed envelope and he is not aware of its contents, according to a report in the media.

Mishra said the letter was not with him and is being sent by some other person to the addressees, the report added.

The shooting occurred hours later the last rites of Ahmed's son Asad, who was gunned down in a police encounter in Jhansi on April 13, were performed here.
Image: video grab

Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh Police has launched a large-scale search operation to locate Shaista Parveen, the wife of the deceased gangster Atiq Ahmed.

Even after her husband was shot dead on April 15, she continues to remain at large.

In addition to Shaista, three other individuals suspected of being involved in the murder of Umesh Pal, a crucial witness in the 2005 MLA Raju Pal murder case, are also on the run.

As per police sources, cops are actively searching for Shaista Parveen in various locations including Greater Noida, Meerut, Delhi, Okhla and West Bengal.

The police have identified over 20 individuals who are suspected of aiding her, including a female doctor and several of Shaista's relatives.

Meanwhile, the Uttar Pradesh government has established a three-member judicial committee to probe the murder of Atiq Ahmed, amidst intense criticism of the incident. The state police, which has also faced harsh criticism, will also investigate the case.

The reports are due in two months time.

A plea has been filed in the Supreme Court seeking an independent inquiry into 183 encounters that have taken place in Uttar Pradesh in the past six years, including the recent killings of gangster-turned-politician Atiq Ahmad and his son Asad.

The plea also challenges the appointment of an inquiry committee by the UP government, which has been criticised for its handling of the case.

In the wake of the killings, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been set up to investigate the matter.

On Monday, the three killers of Atiq and Ashraf were transferred from the Prayagraj Central Prison to a jail in Pratapgarh, said a report in the media.

The Director General of Police in Uttar Pradesh, RK Vishwakarma, announced that in addition to the Special Investigation Team (SIT), a three-member team of supervisors has been formed to ensure that the quality of and that actions are taken within a specific time frame.
Image: Facebook/Jagadish Shetter

New Delhi/IBNS: The Congress on Tuesday released the fourth list of seven candidates for the forthcoming Assembly elections in Karnataka.

According to a communique issued by Congress general secretary Mukul Wasnik, the party's Central Election Commission (CEC) has selected the candidates.

The candidates featured in the list include former Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar, who joined the Congress party on Monday. Shettar will contest from Hubli-Dharwad-Central Assembly seat.

The 67-year-old Lingayat leader joined the Congress party after BJP denied him a ticket to contest the election.

Elections to the 224-member Karnataka Assembly will be held on May 10.

The results will be declared on May 13.

The opposition Congress is eyeing to return to power while the BJP is hopeful that it will retain its reign.

[With UNI inputs]
Image Credit: UNI

Dhaka/UNI: Bangladesh Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen has reiterated the government's commitment to the European Union (EU) regarding free, fair and acceptable elections.

Besides, he welcomed observers from EU and other countries in the upcoming elections.

Foreign Minister Dr. Momen observed that the EUs position on the Indo-Pacific is largely similar to that of Bangladeshs.

He stressed that Bangladesh believes in a free, open, inclusive, peaceful, secure and rules-based Indo-Pacific region with shared prosperity for all.

He stressed that economic development is Bangladeshs top priority and urged the EU to come up with more infrastructure and green investments in Bangladesh, particularly in green transport, renewable energy, and climate change adaptation sectors.

The EU Ambassador informed about the growing interest of the European Investment Bank in investing in renewable energy and transport sectors of Bangladesh.

He was also informed of the scope and interest from the EU to invest in Bangladesh through its Global Gateway initiative. A Mofa Press Release issued today.

The Foreign Minister expressed Bangladeshs continued concerns over the situation in Ukraine, particularly the loss of civilian lives, and consequential socio-economic fallout around the globe.

He reiterated Bangladeshs calls for the cessation of hostilities and urged the EU to play a more pragmatic role in this regard.

The Foreign Minister reiterated that the government wants free, fair and credible general elections.

He informed the Ambassador of the steps taken to empower the Election Commission to enable it to conduct a free and fair election. He welcomed observers from the EU and other countries during the elections.
File image of a protest against blasphemy in Pakistan, photo by Tehreek-e-Labbaik via Wikimedia Commons

Islamabad: In a rare case of a foreigner being swept up in the harsh and controversial blasphemy laws of Pakistan, a Chinese national working on a dam project in northern part of the South Asian nation has been arrested and imprisoned on accusations of blasphemy, reports New York Times (NYT).

NYT reported citing a Pakistani police report that the arrested Chinese man had been identified as Mr. Tian and described as a transportation supervisor at the Dasu hydropower project, which is leading by Chinas Gezhouba Group construction and engineering company.

The Chinese man was on a field visit along with a team of Pakistani workers over the weekend when he was accused of making blasphemous remarks and gestures against God and the Prophet Muhammad after afternoon prayers during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, reports NYT, quoting a Pak police report.

A conviction on blasphemy accusations could bring the death penalty under Pakistani law, and experts believe the incident could strain an otherwise warming relationship between Beijing and Islamabad.

Pakistani officials said the Chinese national was being taken to a jail near the city of Abbottabad for his safety, and faced court hearings to determine whether he would be indicted, NYT reported.

The news of the Chinese man's accusations spread quickly, and it led to protests on Sunday that were dispersed by security officials in the Kohistan region of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Province, according to NYT report.
Image: UNI

Washington, Apr 18 (UNI) The US Justice Department has charged more than 30 officers of China's National Police Force for allegedly conducting operations against dissidents in the United States, US Attorney for the Eastern District of New York Breon Peace said.

"Two complaints charge more than 30 officers with China's national police force... with engaging in transnational repression schemes targeting members of the Chinese diaspora community in New York City and elsewhere in the United States," Peace said during a press conference.

Two of the officers were arrested earlier on Monday morning for allegedly setting up a secret station of the Chinese National Police in a nondescript office building in lower Manhattan, Peace said.

The two defendants destroyed evidence of their communications with the Chinese National Police when they learned about the FBI investigation, Peace said.

A second complaint charges 34 officers for being part of a task force allegedly operating as an internet troll farm creating thousands of fake online personas, which they used in a coordinated plot to harass and threaten dissidents and activists throughout the world, including in the United States, Peace said.

The task force also allegedly used their fake online personas to spread disinformation that underscored the weaknesses of US democracy and foreign policy, sought to sow political divisions in US national elections, and convey conspiracy theories regarding the US government's alleged responsibility for the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic, Peace added.

In a separate press release, the Justice Department said a third complaint charges ten individuals, including six MPS officers and two officials with the Cyberspace Administration of China, for their alleged role targeting "dissidents" on a US tech company's platform. Nine of the defendants are believed to reside in China and remain at-large, and the tenth defendant is believed to reside in Indonesia or China, and also remains at-large.
The samples of one of the most peculiar naturally occurring phenomena in the world - sperm whale vomit - are being sent by Police and forest department officials from across India to a lab in Hyderabad.

Representational Image

Also known as ambergris, these samples, recovered from sellers, have been sent to Laboratory for Conservation of Endangered Species (LaCONES). LaCONES is a part of the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB).



However, a TOI report quoting sources revealed that the scientists are finding it challenging to extract DNA as much of it has dried up.



What is whale vomit or ambergris?

Ambergris, or whale vomit, is a solid waxy substance originating in the whale's intestine, and it is frequently discovered floating on the water or washing up on the coasts. It can also be found in the stomachs of dead sperm whales.



File Image

Freshly produced ambergris has a faecal odour but acquires a sweet, earthy scent as it ages. Perfume makers highly value it as a fixative that allows the scent to endure much longer.



The name 'ambergris' is derived from the old French words Amber and Gris, which means grey amber.



'Floating gold' - a black market favourite

Owing to its properties, it has great demand in the black market and is sold for a very high value there.



Based on data from WWF India, law enforcement agencies have seized nearly 100 kilograms of ambergris in 26 incidents in 2022.



Despite this, ambergris, also dubbed 'floating gold', is obtainable on several online trading platforms and auction sites for roughly Rs 1 crore per kg.



'Growing cases of illegal trade'

Marine biologist D Srinivasa Rao says, "There are growing cases of illegal trade of ambergris derived from sperm whales."



In December 2022, 3 kg ambergris was seized from the Pimpri Chinchwad area in Pune from six persons. Police had arrested two persons carrying ambergris worth Rs 1.6 crore in Dombivili, in Thane.



In July last year, a company of Kerala fishermen had found ambergris worth Rs 28 crore flowing in the ocean and handed it over to the authorities.



Recently, cases in this regard have been reported from Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Delhi.



Wildlife Crime Control Bureau at Chennai and forest officials seized it from Guntur in Andhra Pradesh and Saifabad in Hyderabad in 2021.



Representational Image

WWF India has also highlighted that the population of sperm whales is declining due to large-scale hunting. IUCN has declared the species as endangered.



"The Sperm Whale is protected under Schedule II of the Wildlife (Protection) Act and it is illegal to sell, transfer, possess or trade in ambergris," WWF India says.



For more on news, sports and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News.


Apple opened its first store in India on Tuesday, where about 300 people gathered to see CEO Tim Cook. Along with Deirdre O'Brien, Apple's senior vice president of Retail + People, Cook inaugurated the first retail store run by the company in the country.

"The energy, creativity, and passion in Mumbai is incredible!" Tim Cook wrote on Twitter. "We are so excited to open... our first store in India."

The energy, creativity, and passion in Mumbai is incredible! We are so excited to open Apple BKC  our first store in India. pic.twitter.com/talx2ZQEMl  Tim Cook (@tim_cook) April 18, 2023

Apple's India ambitions

The Apple BKC store in Mumbai is situated in Reliance-owned Jio World Drive. But that's not all - a second store is set to open in New Delhi's Select City Walk mall on Thursday. During the same trip, Cook is expected to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Reuters

Currently, Apple is looking at ways to expand its manufacturing footprint in India, with some iPhones being assembled in the country by Taiwanese contractors Foxconn and Wistron, Reuters reported. In the near-future, iPads and AirPods could be assembled in India.

Also read: Apple's Big Bet On India: Tim Cook To Meet PM Modi As First Apple Stores Open

Reuters

While Apple is the world's second-biggest smartphone maker (only behind Samsung), it only has a 6% market share in India, largely attributable to its high prices. According to Counterpoint Research, about 19% of all smartphones are now produced in India (in 2023), compared to 9% in 2016.

India and Vietnam are among the top two alternatives to China for companies that are looking to diversify their manufacturing capabilities. Until restrictions were eased in 2019, foreign retailers were required to source at least 30% of raw materials locally in India. All Apple sales in India were, till now, made through third-party sellers or online.

Reuters

Also read: Apple's Next Move: Leaked Dummy Unit Reveals Exciting Changes For iPhone 15 Pro



Reuters

Even the Apple online store launched in India recently (in 2020), allowing customers to buy iPhones directly from the website and also allowing customisations for many devices.

Apple's interest in India is expected to grow. Last year, the number of iPhones made and shipped from India rose by 65% compared to the previous year, according to Counterpoint data.

What do you think about Apple's pivot to India? Let us know in the comments below. For more in the world of technology and science, keep reading Indiatimes.com.
The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria has expressed dissatisfaction with a media report claiming that Chinese people bribed militants in the country in order to have access to vast mineral reserves.

It insisted that Chinese government and its people have never been involved in any act of terrorism in any part of the country.

The comment was made in reaction to a revelation by a British newspaper, The Times, that claimed Chinese mining industry employees were sponsoring terrorist organizations in some parts of Nigeria to gain access to the nations mineral resources.

The Times claimed that it has sent its research to an analysis team in Lagos.

However, in a statement issued by its mission in Abuja on Monday, via its Twitter handle, China denied the allegations calling the reporting irresponsible.

READ ALSO: After China-Exim Bank Rejected FGs N$22bn Loan Request, Reps. Approve Request To Borrow $973m Loan From China Dev. Bank

The Chinese Mission said, Our attention has been drawn to a media report titled Chinese bribed Nigerian militants for access to vast mineral reserves, published by the The Times of the U.K. on April 15, 2023.

This report, claiming that Beijing could be indirectly funding terror in Nigeria, is based on unverified, unclear and unproven information, to which we have to express our strong dissatisfaction and objection.

The Chinese government, as well as the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, have always encouraged and urged the Chinese companies and nationals in Nigeria to abide by the laws and regulations of Nigeria, and to implement the local rules and guidance on labour, environment, health and safety, among others, and would continue their efforts in this regard.

The Chinese government was and would never be involved in any form of funding terrorism. The allegations contained in the report were totally irresponsible and unethical, and the intention of the report is seriously questioned.

China also stated that the bilateral cooperation between China and Nigeria had brought tangible benefits to bilateral ties and well-being of both countries.

We will continue to work with the Nigerian government to promote development and address security issues.

We welcome international partners to join our efforts in good faith, but would reject any intention or action that would smear our cooperation.
A Federal High Court in Abuja has stopped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from expelling Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State and State Executive Members of the PDP in Rivers State over alleged anti-party activities.

According to Justice Inyang Ekwo in his judgment, held that the fears of Wike and other members of the PDP were well founded, and that suspending or expelling them will amount to the breach of their rights to freedom of association.

The judge however, added that it is in the power of the court to grant redress to persons who have well established acts that would amount to the infringement of their rights.

READ MORE: What A Sad End To A Brilliant Career  Dele Momodu Solicits Pity, Prayers For Wike

Justice Inyang also said members of political parties can not be suspended arbitrarily with compliance with the political partys guidelines.

Wike, and four other PDP governors known as the G5, had been campaigning against the presidential candidate of the party, Atiku Abubakar.

The G5 governors believed that power should be shifted to south not north zone again, which the partys suspended national chairman and others failed to follow.
The Inspector General of Police, Usman Baba, on Tuesday ordered immediate withdrawal of Mohammmed Barde, the Commissioner of Police on election duty from Adamawa State with immediate effect.

Barde, had come under fire and fierce criticisms for giving cover to the Independent National Electoral Commissioner in Adamawa, who illegally declared the result of the state governorship election even when the process of the collation of the results was yet to be completed last Sunday.

READ ALSO: Stay Away From Our Premises  INEC Tells Suspended Adamawa REC

The IGP also ordered that the CP in charge of Gombe State, Etim Equa, should immediately proceed to Adamawa state for election security of the keenly contested supplementary governorship poll.

The Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, made the revelation while addressing pressmen on Tuesday in Abuja, adding that the IG was committed to a free and fair electoral process.
Suspected kidnappers have abducted a couple along the Osogbo-Iragbiji road in Osun State.

The duo were reportedly abducted on Saturday as they were returning from a church programme at about 4am.

While riding on a motorcycle, the couple ran into an ambush mounted by the kidnappers according to News Agency of Nigeria.

READ ALSO: Church Founder In Court For Raping Two Worshippers In Lagos

The police spokesperson in Osun, Yemisi Opalola, confirmed the incident in Osogbo on Monday and assured that the police were on the trail of the suspects.

Operatives are combing the bush in the area and we assure the public that the victims will be rescued and the criminals will not escape justice, she said.

Local hunters are also said to be searching the forest for the couple and the abductors.
Yomi Awoniyi, a governorship aspirant under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kogi State, says the primary election that produced Senator Dino Melaye as Partys gubernatorial candidate is lacking in credibility.

The former deputy governor of the State, also said that Melaye emerged through a tainted delegate list.

Information Nigeria had reported that Melaye, who represented Kogi West at the National Assembly, was declared winner of the Kogi State PDP governorship primary on Sunday after scoring 313 votes against Awoniyis 77 votes.

Awoniyi, via a statement on Monday in Lokoja, said: Without an iota of doubt, I make bold to say Senator Melayes victory is a pyrrhic one. This victory portends great danger to the unity of our party and the prospect of winning the November 11 governorship election.

READ ALSO: Submit Your Hand Over Notes Before April 19  Gombe Gov. Dissolves Cabinet

The primary that threw up Senator Melaye was flawed; 158 delegates, who emerged from the state ad hoc congress of March 29, 2023, were replaced by the woeful Senator Abdul Ningi Congress Committee, working in concert with Senator Dino Melayes enablers within the party hierarchy at the highest level.

Awoniyi further stated that it was not fair to gift any aspirant, a total of 158 votes in a contest for 739 votes, involving eight aspirants.

It is fraudulent, duplicitous, sinful, and unwholesome because it confers an undue advantage on the favoured aspirant. Senator Dino Melaye won a fraudulent primary.

This pyrrhic victory may look like a fait accompli, but the dust is unlikely to settle even beyond the November 11, 2023 governorship election. From the forgoing, it may surprise many that I do not necessarily blame Senator Dino Melaye for where we find ourselves today. He needs to search his heart to see if he has behaved well, as a counsellor of the celestial, which he claims to be. But I blame his enablers, he added.
Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi State, has said his family conspired against him to vote for the Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, during the February 25 presidential election.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain who disclosed this on Monday during an interview on Channels Television, also said it was surprising that President Muhammadu Buhari and president-elect Bola Ahmed Tinubu, lost their States to the opposition parties at the polls.

To his surprise, he never expected that LP would win any election in Ebonyi State because of the structure put in place that no other political party can even win States councilorship.

READ ALSO: APC Govs Raise Alarm Over Alleged Attempt By NASS Aspirants To Offer $1m Per Vote

Stating he was unaware that his family voted for Peter Obi but voted APC in other elections in the State, he added that votes obtained by Peter Obi during the election were the result of a-protest-votes due to Nigerias seeming hardship and challenges.

He said, In all honesty, I didnt give any chance to the Labour Party to win any election in my State (Ebonyi State) because what we have put in place was such that no other political party should be able to win anything, not even Councilorship election in my State. I saw the Labour Party vote as a protest against my Party (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

I was very surprised; even in my family, there was a conspiracy against me. I did not know that they voted for Peter Obi, but in the other election, they voted for APC because of what weve done in the State.

It was not a vote for His Excellency Peter Obi. As such, there is seemingly hardship and challenges in Nigeria.
Enyinnaya Abaribe, former deputy governor of Abia State, has acknowledged that the Central Bank of Nigerias (CBNs) naira policy which caused a cash crunch across the county, was instrumental to his victory in the just concluded 2023 general elections.

The former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain said this at a two-day seminar organised by Media Educational Development Initiative for Africa with the theme, Peace Journalism and Consolidation of Democracy in Nigeria, for a select few journalists in Abuja on Monday.

According to the former Senate minority leader, the use of Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) technology by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) also curbed irregularities that would have denied him victory.

Senator Abaribe asserted that impunity thrives in Nigeria because the people that perpetuate it are allowed to go free like what is happening in the handling of the elections.

The lawmaker added that his opponents could not manufacture results due to the measures already put in place ahead of the presidential and national assembly election.

He, however, thanked God that he was able to survive the Obi-Datti tsunami (Labour Party) in the southeast that has retired some politicians, adding that his victory was a result of peoples goodwill.

He said, I benefited from BVAS. The technology was right, the only issue is that we have to eliminate human interference.

READ ALSO: Governance Isnt About Sainthood, Allegations Against Tinubu Remains Unproven  Fashola Insists

Commenting on peace journalism in the country, he said that the conference for media and peace initiatives should be held more for politicians, not journalists.

On peace journalism, I still think maybe those of us that are politicians are people that need this seminar more than journalists. You dont tell journalists not to do their job, he said.

Recall that Abaribe contested and won the election under the platform of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) after the PDP had denied him the ticket for Abia South Senatorial District.

Maintaining that the country needs to improve its recruitment process, he explained that if those contesting elections have some modicum of integrity, it will reduce negative reports which are usually sponsored by political opponents.

He noted with dismay that in Nigerian politics, people dont normally vote for the best candidate rather they go for other considerations that make competence and the ability to deliver take the back seat.

God saved me otherwise I would have fallen victim to the Obi-Datti wave. It is also good for Nigeria that people can win elections based on BVAS, he said.

He said that the presidential election in terms of voting was good but after the voting, there was a problem in that the electoral body did not immediately transmit the results at the polling units from the BVAS to the results viewing portal.

Referring to the unfolding drama in the Adamawa State governorship election, Abaribe said, The biggest problem we have as a country Nigeria is the fact that bad behaviour is not punished.

Impunity thrives because you dont pay for it. We are always on our best behaviour when we travel out but act with impunity when we return.
Karla Trotman is the president and chief executive officer of Electro Soft, an electronics manufacturing and engineering firm in Montgomery County. Read more

With unemployment at historic lows, one of the biggest challenges facing area businesses isnt just finding workers, but finding  and keeping  skilled workers. The good news is that theres money available to help employers fix that problem.

Pennsylvania has programs to help its local business owners identify opportunities around workforce, education, training, and economic development needs by offering matching funds of up to 75% of these costs to employers through its PAsmart Industry Partnership Grants program.

Basically any group of businesses of any size within certain industry sectors in the commonwealth are eligible for the funding, said James Martini, executive director of Pennsylvanias Workforce Development Board. Industry groups include health care, technology, nonprofits, and manufacturers.

Karla Trotman, CEO of Electro Soft, a small Montgomeryville-based manufacturer with more than 30 employees, said she has used money from the grant program to provide training, including helping her employees to improve their English, learn about the supply chain, improve higher-level management and leadership techniques, and finesse their technical writing.

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 READ MORE: How layoffs affect your health and what to do about it | Expert Opinion

Trotman has also used the funds to pay for consulting help and training for employees to operate specific types of equipment. Other types of training can include technical skills for plumbing and heating and specific skills related to salesmanship, logistics, and transportation. Management-qualification programs like ISO, the International Organization for Standardization, are also eligible for reimbursement.

We really dont put a lot of restrictions on the training and the state provides the funding, so we take advantage of whatever is needed to help run our business effectively and provide skills to our employees, she said.

How can you access Pa.s workforce-development grant money?

Your business must be located in Pennsylvania and you must be a member of a group that has already received funding from the state.

There are 25 such groups who together received approximately $5.5 million in December (and are likely to receive more funding in the future, pending budget approval). According to Martini, the industry groups are used as a conduit for disbursing the funds so that the money can be better spread out.

Its more efficient to do it this way, he said. Basically any group of businesses within a certain industry sector can put in an application for an industry partnership alongside other public partners like education and training institutions, economic development folks, and the local workforce-development board.

Electro Soft belongs to the Southeastern Pennsylvania Manufacturing Alliance (SEPMA), one of the 25 groups that receives funding under the program and then reimburses its members for their training needs. So does Polysciences Inc., a 240-person contract manufacturer in the health-care industry that is based in Warrington.

What kinds of training is available?

Polysciences relies heavily on the workforce-development grants to provide training for their employees and even uses some of the funds for an apprenticeship program that has helped groom future workers. Jennifer Tenfelde, the companys executive director of human resources, manages a number of training programs simultaneously and works closely with company managers and supervisors to determine the type of training thats needed by their staff.

Ive got a spreadsheet that tracks data for all of the trainings were doing, everything from the start and end date to the employees involved and funding and billing status, she said. We have employees getting upskilled on analytical instrumentation and even HR recruitment, its all over the place.

She also noted that compliance and providing the right documentation can sometimes be challenging, which is why she makes sure to get approval in advance and, like Trotman, relies heavily on the help provided by SEPMA.

Whats the value for employers?

The program has become extremely valuable to smaller companies like Electro Soft and Polysciences that are struggling to find and keep skilled workers.

Were not a large enterprise corporation, and we dont have the big budgets or the specialized knowledge to pull something together on our own, Tenfelde said. This program allows us to give our employees access to critical education that we ordinarily couldnt provide.

Trotman said the funding has also enabled her company to hire more employees.

Because of this program, weve cut our training budget in half. Its opened up opportunities for us to bring on more people because as weve upskilled our existing workers we can hire less skilled people at the entry level, she said. Its been an amazing way for us to expand our workforce.

Gene Marks is the founder and president of the Marks Group, a small-business consulting firm based in Bala Cynwyd.
The offices of the Writers Guild of America West in Los Angeles on March 28, 2019. Read more

LOS ANGELES  Leaders of the Writers Guild of America secured a strong showing of support from its members on Monday, moving the union closer to a possible work stoppage that would disrupt Hollywood production and ripple across Southern Californias economy.

WGA members voted by a historic 98% margin (among 9,218 ballots cast) in favor of a strike authorization, which allows union leaders to call a walkout if they are unable to negotiate a new film and TV contract.

You have expressed your collective strength, solidarity, and the demand for meaningful change in overwhelming numbers, the WGA said in a statement to members. Armed with this demonstration of unity and resolve, we will continue to work at the negotiating table to achieve a fair contract for all writers.

The current three-year contract, which covers about 11,500 members, expires May 1.

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The vote  held between April 11-17  adds pressure to already high stakes negotiations between the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers and the Writers Guild of America over pay and conditions.

The strong endorsement is likely to strengthen the leverage union leaders have in contract negotiations that have so far failed to yield much progress in talks.

The radical transformation of the TV business caused by the rise of streaming platforms has fueled much of the labor conflict.

Writers are seeking a package of compensation increases valued at nearly $600 million. That includes increases in minimum pay and higher residual payments from streaming, along with increased contributions to the unions health and pension plans.

Writers argue that despite the streaming boom, their median pay has fallen in the last decade, citing a WGA report.

Complicating matters is that major studios such as Walt Disney Co., Warner Bros. Discovery and Netflix are facing their own economic pressures to slash costs in the face of rising debt levels, a reassessment of the streaming business and a possible recession.

In a statement, the AMPTP said the ratification vote was not a surprise.

Our goal is, and continues to be, to reach a fair and reasonable agreement, AMPTP spokesman Scott Rowe said. An agreement is only possible if the Guild is committed to turning its focus to serious bargaining by engaging in full discussions of the issues with the companies and searching for reasonable compromises.

Representatives of the AMPTP and WGA returned to the table for talks on Friday.

If they are unable to come to terms, WGA leaders could authorize a walkout as early as May 2 at 12:01 a.m. PT, according to the WGA.

We sense a very high likelihood of a strike beginning in early May 2023, said Rich Greenfield, a co-founder of LightShed Partners, a technology and media research firm in New York. The television business has shifted dramatically and resetting economics between the WGA/AMPTP is no easy task.

This is the first time since 2017 that the guild has voted on a strike authorization, although that year the two sides were able to reach a deal that averted a work stoppage.

The WGA previously went on strike in 2007 in a walkout that lasted 100 days and halted much of Hollywood production. At the time, members approved a strike authorization vote by a 90% margin.
Chef Townsend Wentz was riding high in February 2020: His domain had grown to five properties spanning from Fairmount to East Passyunk, and his eponymous flagship restaurant, which he moved to Rittenhouse in late 2019, nabbed a three-bell review right out of the gate. Then came COVID-19, and Wentz found himself selling fresh pasta and focaccia for pickup to stay afloat.

The chefs empire has reorganized slightly in the years since. Walnut Streets Oloroso and Fairmounts A Mano anchored operations while Townsend returned to its original East Passyunk Avenue home, which Wentz bought. He continues to hold the lease at 2121 Walnut St. and plans to roll out a new concept there.

In January, Wentz reopened the cavernous bar he bought next door to Oloroso, at 1123 Walnut St.  the 38-year-old home of the Irish Pub, briefly followed by the Pearl, his initial concept for the space. Now dubbed the Hayes, its still a work in progress, with a happy hour menu and a new neon sign on the way. (The old Irish Pub sign is hanging over the bars entrance for now, along with lingering Christmas decorations.)

Wentz spent a good part of the pandemic working on the building, which he owns. The bones of the Irish Pub  tall arched windows, exposed beams, painted ceiling  remain intact, but significant upgrades were made elsewhere. Wentz and team painted the interior and exterior, installed a new penny tile floor and lighting, renovated the bathrooms, updated equipment, and replaced stained-glass windows behind the bar with chalkboard menus. They also sanded down the wooden bar and lacquered it with seven coats of varnish. It may be the glossiest bar in Center City.

In a time when the latest entrants to Phillys bar scene are increasingly flashy and slick, the Hayes strikes a different note. Theres a middle-of-the-road, almost throwback feel to it, with more emphasis on beer and wine than cocktails and a menu that includes buffalo wings, jumbo shrimp cocktail, and French onion soup. That may reflect Wentzs own taste in bars  I have my local favorites by my house in Jersey, what I call Jersey roadhouse-style places, with really excellent chicken wings and cold beer  or the fact that bars have to cast a wide net for customers in this part of Center City.

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Even so, you can expect the food and drinks to be top-notch and  with most menu items priced below $20  affordable. Wentz himself was cooking in the kitchen until just recently, and bar manager Bohdan Darway is quick to shake or stir up an off-menu cocktail if you tell him what you like.

Our theme here is really just American tavern, Wentz said. We want to have good bar food: burgers, good entrees, a good steak. I dont want to say its more casual than everything else we do, but it is. We still put all the same effort into what we do.

That means the pita for the hummus plate is house-made, as is the bread that comes alongside the bone marrow. (That bread is smeared with fat from the roasted marrow, sprinkled with Parmigiano Reggiano, then grilled to make a slice of bread so delicious, everything else seems secondary.) Expect other cheffy touches and seasonal additions to the menu, like chestnut stuffing for roasted chicken and seared scallops with grilled spring onions.

[Its] maybe not American tavern of the past, Wentz admits. You know, in lieu of mozzarella sticks, I figured wed put scallops on the menu. Some habits I cant break.

The Hayes at 1123 Walnut St. is open Tuesday 4 to 10 p.m., Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday noon to 10 p.m.; and Friday and Saturday noon to midnight. 215-982-2192, thehayesphl.com
On the face of it, the March 30 decision could affect ACA and job-based insurance plans nationwide and a host of medical services now free for patients. Read more

When a federal judge in Texas declared unconstitutional a popular part of the Affordable Care Act that ensures no-cost preventive care for certain services, such as screening exams for conditions such as diabetes, hepatitis, and certain cancers, it left a lot of people with a lot of questions.

On the face of it, the March 30 decision could affect ACA and job-based insurance plans nationwide and a host of medical services now free for patients.

What does this mean, really, for people with insurance? Policy and legal experts say there are some unanswered questions and a whole lot of nuances.

First, some background. The case, the latest legal challenge to the ACA, was brought by several individuals and an employer in Texas who argued the laws requirement of free preventive care is unconstitutional, and also contended that requiring coverage of HIV-prevention treatment can violate employers religious rights.

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U.S. District Judge Reed OConnor agreed with some of their arguments, declaring unconstitutional one way the recommended tests are chosen, and agreeing that requiring employers to offer preexposure prophylaxis treatment for HIV, known as PrEP, violates the Religious Freedom Restoration Act. But OConnor disagreed on other points that could have eliminated no-pay coverage for such things as contraceptives and vaccines.

Despite the ruling, nothing much is likely to change for enrollees in the short term, as insurers and employers are expected to be reluctant or even unable to immediately begin charging copayments or deductibles for the affected preventive care.

But as the case makes its way through the court system  both the Department of Justice and the plaintiffs have filed notices that they would appeal  here are four things to keep in mind:

A lot remains uncertain

Because of the ACA, most insured people currently get preventive care that includes screening tests like mammograms and colonoscopies  along with other exams, such as checks for bone thinning in older women, depression in adults, or obesity in children  without being charged a copay or money toward a deductible. Theres a long list of qualifying services, including all those that get a top A or B recommendation from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, or USPSTF, an independent group of volunteer experts.

But OConnor, of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas, said members of that volunteer task force, who are appointed by the director of a federal agency, are officers of the United States and therefore need to be appointed by the president and confirmed by the Senate. Because they are not, he ruled that the use of their recommendations to set free preventive services under the ACA is unconstitutional.

Heres where things get confusing, because not all of the more than 50 task force recommendations would necessarily be affected if the ruling stands.

Some policy experts said certain services would remain free of copayments or other cost sharing for patients, partly because certain tests or treatments are also recommended under guidelines from other federal agencies and are therefore not affected by the ruling.

The federal Health Resources and Services Administration, for example, sets preventive care guidelines for a host of womens health issues, including mammograms and contraception, although there is an exemption for religious employers. Additionally, a CDC advisory committee recommends certain vaccines for children and adults. Further, cost sharing might not apply to some services because many experts expect the ruling will not impact tests or treatment recommendations made before 2010, the year the ACA went into effect.

The idea is that when Congress passed the ACA, it adopted all the recommendations from the USPSTF prior to 2010, but anything since then the judge says is not constitutional, said Timothy Jost, law professor emeritus at Washington and Lee University School of Law, who closely follows the ACA.

What is certain

One problem, though, is most of the recommendations have been revised, part of the task forces ongoing work to update recommendations as new scientific evidence arises.

A recent addition, for example, made in 2021, was to recommend that adults ages 45 to 49 get screened for colorectal cancer. Prior to that, the screening was aimed mainly at adults 50 and older.

One possible effect of the judges ruling, if its not overturned on appeal, is that people ages 45 to 49 might no longer be guaranteed no-copay colon cancer screenings.

But the changes could be broader.

Thats because it isnt clear how the ruling would affect recommendations that have been revised since 2010. For instance, would any revision or update made by the task force since 2010 make the entire recommendation subject to the ruling, Jost asked, or would the ruling apply only to the change made, such as the expansion of the age for colon cancer screening?

Is everything the USPSTF touched since 2010 now unconstitutional? asked Jost.

There may be only two pre-2010 recommendations that are unchanged since then, and both involve tests done during pregnancy to see if the blood of mothers and babies is compatible, said A. Mark Fendrick, director of the Center for Value-Based Insurance Design at the University of Michigan.

New or updated recommendations include: A 2019 recommendation that PrEP be offered to people at high risk of getting HIV, a 2021 update for annual lung cancer scans for certain current or former smokers, and screening for hepatitis C in adults ages 18 to 79, updated in 2020.

It will depend on your coverage and your geography

Each insurer and self-insured employer will decide whether to reinstate copayments or other cost sharing for these services. Even if they do, it may take time for them to go into effect, especially given that policies are now in the middle of a plan year, making them contractually hard to change.

It will depend on your employer and what they want to do, and depend on whether you have a collective bargaining agreement and a whole lot of other variables, said Sara Rosenbaum, a professor of health law and policy at George Washington University.

That type of varying coverage was exactly what the ACA was designed to get away from, in order to make this more uniform for all of us, Rosenbaum added.

Even with the ruling, at least 15 states have laws requiring coverage of preventive services without cost sharing, according to an analysis by researchers at Georgetown Universitys Center on Health Insurance Reforms.

But state rules apply only to ACA plans and job-based plans offered by employers who buy coverage from an insurer. Most large employers  and a growing number of smaller ones  self-insure and are not subject to state coverage rules.

What happens next?

Congress could resolve the matter with a simple fix to the ACA, says Fendrick, of the University of Michigan. Give the task force recommendations approval by the secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services and its done, he said.

Still, even though the preventive services coverage is very popular with consumers, the politics of changing the ACA are challenging, especially in a sharply divided Congress.

In the meantime, the case will go through the appeals process, and a final resolution could take months or even years.

The Department of Justice will seek to overturn the ruling, while plaintiffs will likely seek to broaden it, by challenging the parts of the judges ruling that went against them. Specifically, the individuals and employer who brought the case wanted the ruling also to cover recommendations made by other agencies, including the set of womens health recommendations that include contraceptives.

Everything as far as we are concerned is in play, Rosenbaum said.

KFF Health News is a national newsroom that produces journalism about health issues.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Philadelphia Department of Public Health oversight of routine child vaccinations became more lax. Read more

The Philadelphia health department failed to properly supervise medical clinics that provide routine childhood vaccines at the height of the COVID-19 crisis, the citys controller found in an audit released Tuesday.

The Philadelphia Department of Public Health acknowledged their staff skipped some on-site visits required by the federal government to ensure vaccines are properly stored and safeguarded. The audit from the Office of the Controller focused on a federal grant that supported routine childhood vaccinations, such as those for polio, rotavirus, hepatitis B, and measles, mumps, and rubella, from July 2020 through July 2021.

A lack of proper oversight of the program can result in vaccines being improperly safeguarded or wasted, Charles Edacheril, the acting city controller, said in a statement. Additionally, if we dont have complete or up-to-date records for administered vaccines, that could result in health issues for those who need to receive those vaccines.

The health staffers responsible for these checks were busy at the time conducting COVID testing, responding to outbreaks in nursing homes, and helping to administer COVID vaccines, health department spokesperson James Garrow said in a statement issued Tuesday in response to the audit.

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Theres no evidence that the lax oversight resulted in significant waste or harm, the statement said.

The audit reviewed records from the federal Vaccines for Children program, which provides doctors offices with free vaccines for children who are uninsured or underinsured.

Roughly 150 medical offices in the city participated in the program in 2021. The city health department must conduct on-site visits once every two years to comply with the requirements of the federal Department of Health and Human Services.

The issue came to light through an audit of all city programs funded by federal grants.

Health officials retracing missed steps

The health department is now conducting site visits, as it did before the pandemic, Garrow said. If another health crisis as significant as the pandemic emerges, the department plans to dedicate some workers to properly managing the Vaccines for Children program.

The audit acknowledged the magnitude of the crisis facing public health officials at the time. Many doctors offices were closed or offering limited appointments for routine medical care, which complicated the health departments ability to conduct in-person visits. Meanwhile, the departments staff were fully focused on rolling out COVID-19 vaccine shots.

Staff gave up evenings, weekends, and vacations to ensure the success of the (COVID) vaccination campaign, Garrow said.

The health department did collect records from vaccine providers during this time, Garrow said, including information that tracked whether vaccines were being stored at the proper low temperatures.

Routine vaccination rates plummeted in Philadelphia in the first months of the pandemic, a city health department report from 2021 found, but began rebounding later in 2020 and by 2021 had nearly returned to pre-pandemic levels.
A patients urine test landed on Michelle Fishers desk with a warm, wet splash.

Fisher, a Black nurse practitioner, remembers looking up from her lunch to see the white manager of Planned Parenthoods Bellmawr clinic in Camden County.

The clinic manager often berated Fisher for asking questions the nurse practitioner thought were necessary to do her job  including this time, when shed asked to see a urine test before authorizing birth control, she says in a federal discrimination lawsuit. Fisher claims that the supervisor frequently ended their terse exchanges by flicking a fisted hand at her, making a whip-cracking sound and ordering, Now get back to work.

Such interactions were emotionally draining, Fisher said in an interview, but she continued to show up, day after day, for almost three years because she wanted to provide for Black women and girls what shed rarely had: a medical provider who looked like her.

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When she was laid off in spring 2021 in what she believes was retaliation for filing multiple discrimination complaints to human resources, Fisher decided to do more.

In May 2022, Fisher sued Planned Parenthood of Northern, Central and Southern New Jersey for race discrimination and wrongful termination and was deposed in March of this year. The case is ongoing.

What if this is someone elses dream job and they look like me? she said in an interview. I want other people to be able to go in there and not be treated like that.

Over the last five years, discrimination lawsuits have been filed by at least two dozen former and current employees of Planned Parenthoods 49 affiliates, which employ thousands across the country and are a leading source of reproductive health care in almost every state, according to an Inquirer analysis of publicly available national case databases.

In court records and interviews, employees said they faced racist comments from coworkers and were held to a different standard than white colleagues. Many said supervisors were more critical of their work, while valuing their contributions less, compared with white coworkers.

If we cant count on Planned Parenthood to respect Black employees, how can we count on them to care for people of color as patients? Valerie Shore, Fishers attorney in New Jersey

In New York alone, a current chief operating officer for a Planned Parenthood affiliate claims he was subjected to an unusually personal background check that delved into his religion. An administrative staffer says she was labeled angry, a racist stereotype of Black women, when she complained of being given more work than her white peers. A Jewish marketing director claims she was told the employee resource group she wanted to create should focus on teaching Orthodox Jewish women about contraception because theyre birthing factories.

In every discrimination case The Inquirer reviewed, employees said they sensed that reporting issues had enlarged the targets on their backs. All but one said they believed that they were terminated in retaliation for complaining, court records show.

For every former employee who has sued, many more likely have experienced discrimination but stayed quiet for fear that it will affect their ability to find new employment, lawyers representing workers told The Inquirer. The number and geographic spread of the cases suggest a systemic problem, according to a University of Pennsylvania expert in diversity in health-care workplaces.

Planned Parenthood Federation of America, the national umbrella organization, has publicly confronted its racist past in recent years. Its CEO in 2021 denounced Planned Parenthood founder Margaret Sanger, who had white supremacist ties, and vowed that the national organization and its affiliates would root out racism. In a statement to The Inquirer, the national organization said that its affiliates operate independently, but that employees are at the core of who we are, and we must stand with them when they speak out about failures to uphold our mission and values.

The New Jersey affiliate Fisher worked for declined to comment on ongoing litigation but in court records denied Fishers claims of discrimination.

We take any allegation of racism or misconduct extremely seriously and expect everyone at Planned Parenthood to take immediate steps when concerns are raised, Cory Neering, CEO of Planned Parenthood of Northern, Central and Southern New Jersey, said in a statement.

Yet employees say the organization isnt responding with the urgency needed at a critical moment in history. Planned Parenthoods work as the largest abortion provider in the country and a leading source of reproductive health has come under intense focus since last summer, when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that states should decide whether and when someone can terminate a pregnancy.

In some places, Planned Parenthood is the only abortion provider for hundreds of miles, and elsewhere, vulnerable communities rely on the organization for basic health care.

If we cant count on Planned Parenthood to respect Black employees, how can we count on them to care for people of color as patients? said Valerie Shore, Fishers Cherry Hill-based lawyer.

Read the court filings

Michelle Fishers complaint

Planned Parenthoods response to Michelle Fishers lawsuit

Repeat instances of discrimination

Planned Parenthoods employees of color have been raising concerns about racial and ethnic discrimination for years.

An Inquirer analysis of court cases filed in federal courts since 2017 found repeated complaints of discrimination against employees at Planned Parenthood affiliates.

The cases detail how inappropriate behavior, racist tropes, microaggressions, and unequal expectations went unchecked, even after employees complained. A few examples:

A lab manager in Texas was repeatedly berated by her supervisor, whose criticism often centered on her Vietnamese heritage. Its so annoying that you cant speak English, the manager once screamed at her, she said in a complaint filed in 2019. The Planned Parenthood affiliate settled the case with undisclosed terms. A Black nurse practitioner in California said she was called a homie by a supervisor who also made comments about her hair and used racial slurs when referring to other Black people. The Planned Parenthood affiliate settled the case privately in 2019. A Latina community organizer in Tennessee who complained about racism in the workplace said she was written off as mean and hostile. A supervisor scolded her for having a snarky look during a meeting to discuss her concerns, according to a 2023 complaint in an ongoing case.

Thirteen of 24 cases reviewed by The Inquirer alleged discrimination on the basis of race. In three cases, Planned Parenthood reached a settlement with its former employees. Four cases were dismissed; six are ongoing. The 11 other cases alleged age, gender, or disability discrimination.

Numerous complaints that spur legal action suggest the organization isnt doing enough to train employees on racism and bias when they are hired, said Eve J. Higginbotham, the vice dean for inclusion and diversity at University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine.

If Im at the executive leadership level of an organization like Planned Parenthood, I would certainly look at the processes we have in place if I got even one complaint like that, she said. Having several suggests there is a systemic issue.

Her research has found that Black, Hispanic, and female employees were more likely than white men to experience unprofessional behavior from coworkers, while their own professionalism was more closely scrutinized.

People are expecting there to be some direct racial comment, someone being called a name, said Shore, the lawyer representing Fisher in New Jersey. What it really is is the Black employees are being treated one way, the white employees are treated another.

Fisher, who has worked as a nurse practitioner for 16 years, alleges that she was harassed and intimidated for asking questions about medical protocol and patient cases, while her own medical expertise was discounted. When she complained, she was called a pain in the ass, according to court records.

She was routinely assigned to clinics farther from her South Jersey home and required to work more hours, while white nurses with less experience were given preferential schedules, she alleges in her lawsuit.

I kept sitting there saying, Maybe its me, Fisher said, shaking her head. Its not me.

After hearing of other Black nurses who had made similar allegations, she became convinced that the institution itself had a problem.

Alysa Jeffers, a Black nurse practitioner who worked for the same New Jersey affiliate but is not involved in Fishers case, says she was also asked to travel more often than her white colleagues to far-away clinics for less desirable shifts. When she refused a last-minute reassignment an hour away, she was put on leave and then fired, she said in an interview.

Jeffers thought it was unfair, but had never complained because she was young and early in her career, she said. She didnt file a legal complaint.

I just felt like my little voice wasnt going to make a difference, Jeffers said. Fishers lawsuit made her feel empowered to speak out, more than two years later, she said.

 READ MORE: Many abortion providers say they chose their specialty out of fear that if they didnt, patients would go without care.

Planned Parenthoods public reckoning with racism

Planned Parenthood Foundation of America was founded in 1916 by Margaret Sanger, an early advocate for contraception who believed in eugenics, a practice of involuntarily sterilizing people who were deemed unfit to be parents because of physical or mental health disabilities. More than a century later, an internal survey of the national organizations current and former employees in 2020 found that racism and discrimination persist.

Employees of color who responded to the survey said their performance was more closely scrutinized than that of their white colleagues. They reported being treated as if they couldnt work independently and were repeatedly passed over for promotions that instead went to white colleagues, BuzzFeed News reported after obtaining a recording of a presentation of the survey findings to staff.

Management knew that employees of color were less engaged in their work, more stressed, and had lower retention rates, according to an employee discrimination lawsuit in New York that quoted an all-staff email from Planned Parenthood Federation CEO Alexis McGill Johnson.

The employee, Nicole Moore, a former director of multicultural brand engagement for Planned Parenthood Federation of America, is suing for discrimination and wrongful termination, and her case is ongoing.

It was the most public secret, Moore said in an interview.

McGill Johnson publicly denounced Sanger in a 2021 New York Times op-ed, writing that the founders legacy had caused harm to generations and vowed to expunge systemic racism within the organization.

By privileging whiteness, weve contributed to America harming Black women and other women of color, McGill Johnson wrote. We are committed to confronting any white supremacy in our own organization, and across the movement for reproductive freedom.

She said Planned Parenthood would invest in anti-racism training for everyone from the boardroom to the exam room, and establish new diversity, equity, and inclusion standards for affiliates.

This extended to the New Jersey clinic where Fisher worked from 2018 to 2021.

In 2022, Planned Parenthood of Northern, Central and Southern New Jersey named a director of diversity, inclusion, equity and belonging, whose job is to hold us accountable every day, Neering said in a statement to The Inquirer.

Problems persist

Even as Planned Parenthood confronted its racist past, something still felt broken, said Anna Flores, a Latina community organizer, who is suing a Tennessee affiliate.

When Flores began work in 2021 as part of a team tasked with strengthening Planned Parenthoods community relationships, she was encouraged by the national organizations openness about equity problems.

But she was disappointed by the reaction from management when she questioned the organizations approach to diversifying its board of directors by tapping an immigration group that didnt support abortion rights. When her team hired a Spanish-speaking employee, Flores was expected  not asked  to translate, a task that became burdensome on top of her own work, she claims in her lawsuit.

She broke down in tears when, in front of colleagues at a team retreat, her supervisor accused her of being hostile and having a snarky look on her face, she alleges in the lawsuit.

People have been commenting on my face  not just my expressions but the way it looks  since I was a child, said Flores. In that moment, I knew I was never going to be taken seriously.

In a lawsuit filed earlier this year, the current chief operating officer at Planned Parenthood of Greater New York, a Black man who is an ordained pastor, alleges that the organization made his religion an issue during his hiring process. Since taking the job, Samuel Ricarlos Mitchell Jr. has been repeatedly mocked by coworkers for his race, religion and gender, all in an effort to minimize his authority as a Black man in a leadership role, his lawyer said in an interview.

In New Jersey, Fisher said she believes racism played a role in her termination from Planned Parenthood. During her three years at the organization, shed filed multiple formal complaints of discrimination, but believed that they were ignored and made supervisors dislike her more, she said.

On a call regarding one of her complaints, the head of human resources yelled at me and told me I should shut up and just listen, Fisher said.

Fisher was put on leave in May 2021, days after an incident in which a patient began screaming at Fisher for questioning the necessity of a Pap smear test she had requested because the patient wasnt due for one. A supervisor later berated Fisher for disagreeing with the patient, she alleges in her lawsuit.

She was fired a month later.

In its reply to Fishers lawsuit, Planned Parenthood denies reprimanding her for the way she handled the patients test, and says she was put on leave for discussing a patients medication condition with various employees, then terminated due to her performance.

Fisher said she never talked about patients inappropriately and never received a warning about her performance.

The experience has galvanized Fishers resolve to promote diversity in health care. Research shows patients are more trusting of medical providers who look like them, feel better able to communicate and are more likely to follow prescribed treatment. Yet just under 10% of nurse practitioners are Black, according to the U.S. Department of Labors Bureau of Labor Statistics.

 READ MORE: How do we improve diversity in medicine? Black female physician-leaders answer

After Planned Parenthood, Fisher routinely took on temp jobs and had several interviews for permanent positions. But she thinks prospective employers were turned off when they eventually learned about her lawsuit and why she left her last position.

Almost two years later, she has finally landed another full-time job in health care.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro holds press conference at Impact Services to announce scheduling xylazine, tranq to the list of schedule III drugs under Pennsylvanias Controlled Substance, Drug, Device, and Cosmetic Act. Read more

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro announced Tuesday that his administration will join three other states by categorizing xylazine, a powerful veterinary sedative, as a Schedule III drug.

Xylazine, also known as tranq, is legal for veterinary use to sedate large animals, such as horses. But in recent years the drug has spread into fentanyl supplies across the country, including in Philadelphia and throughout Pennsylvania.

This drug is a serious threat, Shapiro said in Kensington, which has been the center of Pennsylvanias opioid epidemic. Even more so because a lot of times when people take it, they dont even realize its mixed in with the fentanyl that theyre purchasing.

 READ MORE: A powerful sedative in Phillys drug supply is causing severe wounds and agonizing withdrawals. Its quickly becoming unavoidable.

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Making it a Schedule III drug would allow the state to require tighter record keeping, require that the drug be stored in locked facilities, and give law enforcement the ability to prosecute people for illegally possessing and selling it. Whats more, manufacturers must add additional checks to ensure that the person who ordered the drug is the one receiving it. Veterinarians will still have access to xylazine for their work, Shapiro added.

The Drug Enforcement Administration defines Schedule III drugs as those with a moderate to low potential for physical and psychological dependence.

Pledging to stay ahead of emerging drug threats, Shapiro also announced that he would classify nitazenes, a class of synthetic opioids up to 40 times more powerful than fentanyl, as a Schedule I narcotic.

Shapiro said that as governor, his administration can reclassify substances that pose an imminent hazard to public safety.

The drugs will move to their new classifications in May. The administration has a year to formally make the regulatory change, which will not require legislation, said a spokesperson for the governor.

Shapiro also reaffirmed Tuesday that he opposes the creation of supervised-injection sites in Pennsylvania, to the applause of the crowd. Years-long settlement talks between the U.S. Department of Justice and nonprofit Safehouse may soon clear the way for such a site in Philadelphia, where people could use drugs under medical supervision.

Well see what authority I have as governor to take action, Shapiro said, adding that he supports legislation sponsored by Sen. Christine Tartaglione (D., Philadelphia) to ban the sites in the state. Suffice to say, well be prepared to take action should that become a reality.

Theyre being sold trash

Shapiro was joined by local and state officials at Impact, an organization that helps people experiencing homelessness re-enter the workforce.

State Rep. Danilo Burgos (D., Philadelphia) said the xylazine announcement was a step in the right direction.

People need to be aware that basically theyre being sold trash, Burgos said about the street drug. This is not just giving you a temporary high, its destroying your body.

Xylazines emergence in Pennsylvania is an urgent issue that requires a multidisciplinary approach, according to Latika Davis-Jones, acting secretary of drug and alcohol programs.

We know that substance use disorder... is a chronic, relapsing disease. Its a medical condition. Its not a crime, and its not a moral failing, said Davis-Jones. The longer we keep people alive, the greater the chance we have to get people into the care and treatment that they need and deserve.

According to state data, xylazine contributed to 90 overdose deaths in 2017. By 2021, the drug contributed to 575 overdose deaths across 30 counties. That year, Philadelphia reported that 90% of street opioid samples contained xylazine.

In Philadelphia, epidemiologists believe xylazine was initially added to fentanyl to give the opioid a longer-lasting high, similar to that of heroin  except that xylazine is not an opioid, and its effects are more aggressive. Users report blacking out, forgetting things, and developing wounds in places throughout the body where they never injected.

Overdoses where xylazine is present are harder to reverse because the drug wont respond to naloxone. Users say xylazine withdrawal can overcome the body quickly and aggressively, which can complicate treatment. The drug doesnt respond to traditional opioid withdrawal medications.

Three other states  Ohio, Florida, and West Virginia  have similarly classified xylazine as a controlled substance. Shapiros announcement is part of a growing effort to curb the drug across the country.

In late February, the Food and Drug Administration announced restrictions on the import of the drug, making shipments of xylazine and products that contain it subject to heightened FDA scrutiny.

Philadelphias Health Commissioner Cheryl Bettigole has spoken out in support of the federal restrictions. She and Mayor Jim Kenney have called for the drug to be classified as a controlled substance at the federal level.

Those working in harm reduction, however, have raised concerns about what restrictions on xylazine could mean for people who are already dependent on the drug and whether a crackdown could give rise to newer, even more dangerous drugs.

Jane Roh, a spokesperson for District Attorney Larry Krasner, said in an email that Shapiros announcement would impact the health-care industry more than law enforcement, because xylazine is usually only found mixed with fentanyl or heroin, which are already Schedule I drugs.

Jasmin Velez, 29, of Kensington, said shes hopeful the announcement would make a difference in the community.

We know this crisis didnt happen overnight, Velez added. Its evident wherever you walk and you see people who are utilizing.
Israel has been convulsed with massive civic protests over the far-right governments plans to subvert the judiciary and annex the West Bank. Trudy Rubin, just back from an April trip to Israel, will discuss whether the country faces an internal civil war or a new Palestinian uprising, or a war on its borders - and how the challenges to democracy there parallel ours.
The shouting outside the health clinic at 1144 Locust St. in Philadelphia carries into the patient waiting room.

You dont have to go in!

No one can force you to do this!

The commotion outside is at odds with an interior like any obstetrician-gynecologists office: Oversize photographs of smiling couples on the walls, exam rooms with paper-covered exam tables and metal stirrups, plastic models of female anatomy to demystify reproductive health.

But to get there, a volunteer escort ushers patients past protesters on the sidewalk, and a security guard buzzes open the lobby doors. To the left is a bank of elevators to the lower-level abortion clinic; to the right is a door with automatic locks leading to a clinic offering routine womens health services.

More often than not, patients bear right. In Philadelphia, most of the patients at the nations largest network of abortion clinics are not there to terminate a pregnancy.

Eight out of 10 patients who come to Planned Parenthoods Philadelphia-area facilities are there for routine exams, STD tests, contraception, family planning guidance and other reproductive health care. Planned Parenthood Southeastern PA, which operates eight clinics in Philadelphia and the surrounding counties, saw 36,000 health clinic patients last year, compared to 8,000 patients seeking abortion care.

 READ MORE: At Pa. abortion clinics, volunteer patient escorts brace for their work to get even harder post-Roe

We are the largest single-entity abortion provider in the country and we do it without apology, said Dayle Steinberg, CEO of Planned Parenthood Southeastern PA. But we are, for many of our patients, their only source of health care.

A nationwide shortage of family medicine and obstetrician-gynecologists, and a rush to reschedule appointments missed during the pandemic have strained a limited network of medical providers who offer sexual and reproductive health services. Planned Parenthood serves patients who most likely cannot get care elsewhere, such as those who are uninsured, low-income or who live in neighborhoods without a provider nearby.

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A recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling that eliminated the nearly five-decade-long constitutional right to abortion has upended Planned Parenthoods future. In Pennsylvania, abortion remains legal until 24 weeks, though that could change if Republicans win this falls gubernatorial election. Already, clinics here are grappling with an influx of patients from nearby states where abortion immediately was restricted.

The high courts ruling has also fortified a growing contingent of protesters like Mark Houck, who has been coming from Bucks County for almost 20 years to stand outside the downtown Philadelphia clinic.

Not everyone is here for an abortion  we get that, said Houck, though he believes non-abortion care helps support Planned Parenthoods mission. So he offers to all on their way in or out of the clinic antiabortion literature, a handwritten note offering help and three Lifesavers candies.

Separate services and bank accounts

The first time Julia Henrikson came to Planned Parenthood, she was a college student in need of a routine checkup. Now 28 and living in Philadelphia, she has struggled to find providers who can get her in quickly for chronic urinary tract infections that flare up unexpectedly.

She plans to call the Locust Street clinic next time she needs care. Through Planned Parenthood, shes always been able to get an appointment within a week and feels the medical staff listen to her concerns without rushing her.

Friends dont always understand how she can be comfortable seeking routine care from a leading abortion provider. One once asked why she didnt go to a real doctor.

I think theres a misconception about the quality of care Planned Parenthood provides for regular services, Henrikson said.

Inside the Locust Street facility, housed in a brick corner building with plants stretching into a sunlit front entrance walkway, the health clinic and abortion clinic essentially work independently of each other. They are physically separated by a floor, each have their own staff and even maintain separate bank accounts.

Thats because Title X, the federal grant program for reproductive health, prohibits clinics from using public money to pay for abortion care. This separation also enables Planned Parenthood to meet state-mandated requirements for abortion clinics, specifying such details as the number of sinks, hallway width, and entryway awning size.

More than half of the 8,000 patients who seek abortion care at the clinic receive oral medication to terminate a pregnancy. Others are seen for surgical abortion procedures.

Beyond the waiting area, patients find exam rooms, counseling rooms and a recovery space, where those who received anesthesia recuperate by sipping ginger ale and nibbling crackers. Appointments are coordinated around a Pennsylvania law requiring abortion patients to be counseled by a doctor, then wait 24 hours before their procedure.

On the main level, the health clinic sees some 36,000 patients a year for services such as prescribing birth control, STD testing, and treating yeast infections.

Planned Parenthood Southeast PAs clinics in West Chester and Norristown arent big enough to physically separate abortion services in one building, so those clinics must alternate which days they provide abortions and all other health services.

Although Planned Parenthood is best known for providing abortions, fiscal reports show that abortion care accounted for about a quarter of Planned Parenthood Southeastern PAs $16.2 million revenue in the year that ended June 2020, the most recent for which tax filings are available.

Health clinic services and donations each accounted for a greater share of revenue  about 35%.

No appointments anywhere else

Bobbie Trotenberg turned to the Locust Street clinic for routine gynecological checkups in the 1980s when she was in her 20s and just starting her career in public relations. The job didnt pay much and her health insurance plan was not required to fully cover womens health services.

Planned Parenthood was convenient; it was accessible, said Trotenberg, who now volunteers escorting patients inside.

On any given day, the health clinic sees a mix of patients who are uninsured, underinsured or simply cant get in to see their usual private practice doctor.

Under the Affordable Care Act, most private health plans and Medicaid now must cover annual exams and contraception at no cost. But being able to afford care doesnt necessarily mean being able to access it.

A decades-long shrinking of hospital birth centers in Philadelphia  Delaware County Memorial Hospital most recently shuttered its maternity ward in January  has made it harder to find providers who are accepting new patients and can see them quickly.

People often come to us because they cant get an appointment anywhere else, said Phebe Brandt, a nurse practitioner who leads the Locust Street health clinic. They realize they like the care theyre getting and continue coming.

 READ MORE: A doctor who treated botched abortions pre-Roe looks back: A matter of life and death

Planned Parenthood shares staff across health clinics and employs more nurse practitioners to avoid staffing shortages limiting hours at many private practice clinics. Evening and weekend hours also help.

Curbing access to abortion in Pennsylvania would not stop the organization from continuing to offer other health services, but the recent court ruling has created political uncertainty that worries some.

Republican gubernatorial candidate Doug Mastriano said that, if elected, he would support a total ban on abortion, including cases of rape, incest, or severe health conditions. Republican lawmakers are also pursuing a constitutional amendment that says Pennsylvania residents do not have a right to abortion.

 READ MORE: The next Pa. governor will decide the future of abortion here

Aishat Olatunde, a Philadelphia-based OB-GYN and fellow with Physicians for Reproductive Health, worries that demand for reproductive health services  namely contraception  will outstrip supply if access to abortion becomes more limited.

Planned Parenthood and other independent reproductive health clinics are crucial for communities, Olatunde said. People from lower income backgrounds who need access to basic reproductive health care really survive by being able to access basic gynecological care from these clinics.

The Philadelphia Inquirer is one of more than 20 news organizations producing Broke in Philly, a collaborative reporting project on solutions to poverty and the citys push toward economic justice. See all of our reporting at brokeinphilly.org.
Former Philadelphia City Councilmember Bobby Henon leaves the federal courthouse in Center City in Philadelphia in March after being sentenced to 3 years in prison. Read more

He was known for a decade as Northeast Philadelphias representative on City Council, a fierce advocate for organized labor and  for a time  as Councils Democratic majority leader.

But starting this week, Bobby Henon added a new title to that list: Inmate No. 77029-066.

The three-term Democrat, who resigned his post last year after a bribery conviction, reported to the federal correctional institution at Fort Dix on Monday to begin serving his 3-year sentence on bribery charges.

This is a difficult day, as I now have to say goodbye to you all for awhile, he posted in a message to his Facebook followers. To my family and friends who stood by me through all of it, I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

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Henon will serve his sentence in the prisons minimum-security satellite camp  a unit that primarily houses those convicted of white-collar crimes and inmates the federal Bureau of Prisons deems a low security risk.

Inmates are typically given a wide range of movement in dormitory-style accommodations.

But in the federal prison system, there is no possibility for parole. With time off for good behavior, Henon could be released from custody in spring 2026.

 READ MORE: Former City Councilmember Bobby Henon's bribery sentence. Heres what you should know.

The former Council member, who was not available for comment, was convicted in 2021 of selling the powers of his office to labor leader John J. Dougherty in exchange for a $70,000-a-year salary from their politically powerful union, Local 98 of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers.

He has signaled his intent to appeal, but after his sentencing hearing last month the former elected official said he would honor the sentence the judge imposed.

During the proceeding, Henon, 54, choked back tears, telling U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Schmehl that he didnt viewthe payments from Local 98 as bribes at the time, but now realized hed committed a crime.

I tried my best to help every Philadelphian, especially those who were vulnerable and those in need, he said. To his constituents, he added: By putting the interest of my union first, I failed you.

 READ MORE: How Henons sentence compares with other bribery cases

The son of a union electrician who grew up in largely blue-collar Wissinoming, Henon entered the political arena at age 19 when he was elected as a Democratic committeeperson. He followed in his fathers professional footsteps, joining Local 98 as a seasonal worker and rising through its ranks from apprentice to foreman to business agent.

He served as the unions political director from 1999 until his election to Council in 2011  a period that overlapped with Doughertys transformation of what was once a relatively small local into the most politically potent union in the city and the states largest source of independent campaign cash.

But Henons relationship with the union leader eventually led to his undoing.

At Henons trial, prosecutors portrayed him as Doughertys puppet  swept into office on a wave of Local 98 manpower and money, controlled by his union paycheck and then used as a vise to squeeze Doughertys personal and professional enemies.

Dougherty repeatedly leaned on Henon to use the powers of his office to advance legislation or other government actions that were personally beneficial to him or the standing of his union.

Over 18 months of recorded conversations between [Henon] and his codefendant John Dougherty there was not a single instance in which Mr. Henon said no to him, Assistant U.S. Attorney Frank R. Costello Jr. said at Henons sentencing.

Dougherty, who was also convicted of bribery charges, awaits sentencing and two additional trials. The first  on separate allegations he and others embezzled more than $600,000 from their union  is scheduled to begin next month.

Henon did not mention Dougherty in his Facebook post Monday.

Instead, he wrote: I thank my Local 98 union brothers and sisters for your help, support and encouragement over the years. I am humbled by all of it along with the rest of the labor movement who have always been the point of the spear for all working families.

Staff writer Oona Goodin-Smith contributed to this article.
Two more local universities may be starting down the path of a merger: Drexel and Salus Universities announced Monday that they are exploring an affiliation.

The action could be subject to regulatory approvals, depending upon what form the affiliation takes, and it would be contingent on approvals by the schools boards of trustees.

An agreement linking the schools graduate health sciences education and clinical practice programs could be finalized as soon as late spring or early summer, Michael H. Mittelman, president of Salus, said in a message to the campus community.

 READ MORE: Jefferson-Philadelphia University merger drawing attention from other schools

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But much would still need to be worked out, including how to preserve Salus name and legacy and what will happen with its endowment, he wrote.

Its not something Salus  a small, private health sciences university based in Elkins Park, which enrolls about 1,200 students  has just started to explore. Over the last year, the school has been considering multiple expressions of interest from potential partners, Salus and Drexel said in a joint statement.

Drexel president John A. Fry said the affiliation would bring a wide range of nonoverlapping degree programs in the health sciences to Drexel, one of the largest private universities in the Philadelphia region, with 23,200 students. Salus also has four clinical facilities in Philadelphia and Montgomery Counties that provide vision, hearing, and balance, speech-language pathology and occupational therapy services, Fry noted.

This would further solidify Drexels place as a leader in preparing future interprofessional health sciences practitioners by adding renowned Salus graduate degree programs such as optometry, audiology, blindness and low-vision studies, speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, and orthotics and prosthetics, Fry said in a message to the Drexel community.

Meanwhile, Drexel already has medical, biomedical, public health, nursing, and health professions programs.

It would be the latest pairing of local universities looking to solidify their position in an increasingly competitive higher education marketplace, with the number of available high school graduates on the decline and a further dip expected in a couple years.

Earlier this year, St. Josephs University announced it had a definitive agreement to merge with the Pennsylvania College of Health Sciences in Lancaster, the school founded by Lancaster General Hospital, which is the largest hospital in Lancaster County and now owned by the University of Pennsylvania. That announcement came less than a year after the Catholic institution merged with the former University of the Sciences. Also last July, the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education merged six of its universities into two new entities.

 READ MORE: St. Joes announces merger with another college, this one with nursing programs

In 2017, Thomas Jefferson University merged with the former Philadelphia University.

Drexel isnt new to affiliations, either. In 2011, The Academy of Natural Sciences, the oldest natural history museum in the nation, became a part of Drexel.

And at least one other local college, Cabrini University, has been in the hunt for a local partner. With a mounting deficit last year, the university announced it was eliminating academic leadership positions, including that of the provost. It also laid off some faculty in December, and its president Helen Drinan said the school was exploring a merger.

Unlike the situation at Cabrini, Salus has not been losing money, at least not in the last two years. It had operating income of $2.35 million on revenue of $55 million in FY22 and operating income of $2.9 million on operating revenue of $54 million the year before, according to its most recent financial statements.

Many universities are considering these types of partnerships as part of a strategy to tap into new markets in areas of study that have strong labor demand outlook, Fry said in his message.   Global events and an uncertain economy are affecting higher education in unprecedented ways. In order to remain competitive and position themselves to be responsive to the expectations of the higher education market, universities must become more nimble and innovative in supporting and expanding their academic strengths.

Fry said the affiliation also would expand Drexels graduate enrollment and further interdisciplinary research in new areas.

Salus president also touted the benefits, including an expansion in research collaboration and grant funding. Students would gain access to Drexels facilities, including its recently opened health sciences building, as well as its signature co-op program that places students in paid six-month work experiences as part of their education, Mittelman wrote.

Such an affiliation, if completed, would greatly expand our ability to provide the very highest level of health care educational options, access to clinical programs, and major new opportunities for research collaboration  primarily because it would be built on the strengths of each institution, which complement each other very well, he wrote, explaining why Salus has signed a nonbinding letter of intent to explore the affiliation.

Drexel also could serve as a feeder to Salus graduate programs, he said.

Staff writer Harold Brubaker contributed to this article.
A Lansdale man has been charged with murder after he broke into the home of the mother of his two children and killed her boyfriend, Montgomery County prosecutors said Tuesday.

Christopher Moore Jr., 21, broke into his ex-girlfriends home at the Walnut Arms apartments in Lansdale by climbing through her bathroom window about 11 p.m. Monday night, prosecutors said.

The womans boyfriend, Wesley Smith, 21, was visiting her at the time, they said, and the two were in the bedroom.

After breaking inside, Moore walked into the room and started shooting at Smith, prosecutors said, striking him in the face and armpit.

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Smith returned fire with his legally owned gun, shooting Moore multiple times, authorities said.

Smiths injuries were severe, and he died at the scene, prosecutors said. Moore Jr. was flown by helicopter to Jefferson Hospital in Philadelphia, and is expected to survive, they said.

Moore, who remains hospitalized, was charged Tuesday with murder, burglary and related crimes. It was unclear whether he had retained an attorney.

According to the criminal complaint, Moore had broken into the womans apartment the previous evening, as well, and was sitting at her kitchen table when she arrived home from a night out. He attacked the woman, the complaint said, punching and strangling her. He brandished a gun and said he would pop her and whoever she was now dating, the complaint said, and then he smashed her phone.

The woman did not report the incident to police, she told investigators, out of fear of escalating ongoing abuse.

Its not uncommon for victims of domestic violence to decline to report violence to police. Survivors often feel isolated and embarrassed or fear that no one will believe them, experts say, and taking action, like leaving the relationship, can also escalate violence and place the victim in greater danger.
Aerial photo shows multiple warehouses built in a complex near Hanoverville Road, north of Bethlehem, Pa., in the Lehigh Valley. Read more

American Rivers, a national nonprofit aimed at protecting waterways, has named the Lehigh as one of its top 10 most endangered rivers in 2023 because of the explosive growth in the past few years of warehouses that rim the watershed.

Recently, the Lehigh is experiencing an amount of rapid land development for warehouse construction. Its really pretty unprecedented, said Lia Mastropolo, director of clean water supply for American Rivers. Four square miles, which is several thousand acres of land, have already been developed, which is kind of hard to get your head around. And theres a lot more in the pipeline. This kind of development is just fundamentally changing the character of the river.

The Lehigh Valley Planning Commission reported there was almost 18 million square feet of warehouse space added in 2022 alone, dwarfing all other types of development. The commission guides planning in Lehigh and Northampton Counties, which include 62 municipalities. However, the municipalities approve any projects in their own communities.

The numbers do not reflect additional warehousing being built in neighboring counties.

The Lehigh River is a critical source for the Lehigh Valley and has always been a top priority of the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission said the commissions executive director Becky Bradley. Thats why we are working with dozens of communities to strengthen their planning and zoning regulations so they better manage the development thats been coming at them, and make sure the structures that get built include lots of green infrastructure and good storm water management.

One Amazon warehouse can run 600,000 to 1 million square feet. Environmentalists say such big buildings also come with big parking lots. Small local roads often have to be widened to handle large tractor-trailers. The hard surfaces of buildings and parking lots lead to more storm runoff directly into the Lehigh and its tributaries, carrying pollution along with it. Runoff contains gas, oil, and coolant leaked from vehicles.

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American Rivers said that poor planning has led to threats to the Lehigh, putting clean water, fish and wildlife habitat, rural and local communities, and open space all at risk.

Its really harmful to a river that people really do love and thats why were trying to elevate this to the national level  that this is a pretty special resource for this part of the country, Mastropolo said. And we really do think that this level of development is posing a pretty serious impact.

Where is the Lehigh?

The Lehigh River starts at 2,100 feet above sea level near Pocono Peak Lake in Wayne County. It runs 103 miles until emptying into the Delaware River in Easton, Northampton County. It traverses Lackawanna, Monroe, Luzerne, Carbon, and Lehigh Counties, tumbling through a picturesque landscape of forests, gorges, and wetlands.

But it also has an industrial past and travels through densely populated areas including Allentown and Bethlehem, both also on the banks of the Lehigh.

The river was privately owned from 1821 to 1966 by the Lehigh Coal & Navigation Co.  then the only privately owned river in the United States. It served as a major anthracite coal transport route. Portland Cement and the Bethlehem Steel Plant Corp. both had their operations along the river, attesting to its industrial use.

The Francis E. Walter Dam opened in 1962 to control flooding in the Lehigh River Valley and to provide a water source for the region. Releases of the dam water at various times of the year, turn the Lehigh into a whitewater haven for paddlers.

The 6,107-acre, steep-walled Lehigh Gorge State Park is marked by forests and waterfalls, following the dams outlet at the northern end to the town of Jim Thorpe at the southern end. A trail that traces an abandoned railroad along the river is a draw for hikers, cyclists and sightseers.

Although its water quality is better than it was during the industrial heyday, it is still threatened by rampant development.

Warehousing

Residents have been voicing opposition at various public meetings for years. Earlier this year, according to the Morning Call, a crowd from Allen Township, Northampton County, showed up at a planning commission meeting. One person told the commission simply: We dont want any more warehouses.

The Lehigh made the most endangered list primarily through the work of PennFuture, a Pennsylvania-wide nonprofit advocacy group. Donna Kohut, PennFutures campaign manager for the Delaware River Basin, lives in the Lehigh Valley.

Kohut said it had become clear by 2021 that warehouses posed a major threat.

Im fully aware of the concerns that already exist in my region, in my community, and the desire that many folks express to stop the build out, or at least approach it differently, Kohut said.

Particularly concerning now, Kohut said, is the spread of warehouses beyond the Lehigh Valley and into the Poconos.

We started seeing distribution center build expanding northward, she said. The communities saw what was happening in the Lehigh Valley. They got concerned they started watching it happen to them.

Kohut said warehouses and distribution complexes are spreading along Route 33 and I-80 toward Stroudsburg and East Stroudsburg.

Up north in the Pocono mountain region, were talking about this build-out that will impact the headwaters of the Lehigh River, Kohut said.

Kohut said the headwaters contain the cleanest, most pristine, healthiest waters in the state.

Projects are on tap in Monroe and Pike Counties  some areas beyond the Lehighs watershed. However, Kohut said the road network is interconnected, bringing truck traffic to rural areas where roads arent able to handle the loads.

The build-out and congestion also threatens one of the areas key economic drivers: outdoor recreation. Tourists that flock to the Poconos and rural communities dont want to see warehouses. At the same time, development threatens the waterways where they recreate.

Were talking about impact to the boreal forests on the Pocono plateau, Kohut said. Were talking about wetlands and bogs. Were talking about forests. And so one of the primary things that happens is those areas will get deforested. Youre seeing an actual change to the landscape and ecosystems.

This story was updated to note that municipalities approve projects in their communities, and to include a statement from the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission.
A lawsuit that settled this week in Delaware, alleging that Fox News knowingly aired false information during the 2020 presidential election cycle, brought an otherwise unknown software company into the spotlight.

Dominion Voting Systems is one of the largest election tech providers in the country. It sells and licenses its voting software and tabulation machines to more than half of the countrys states.

 READ MORE: Fox hosts including Tucker Carlson, Sean Hannity, and Laura Ingraham doubted Trumps false claims of election fraud, court filings show

As noted by The New York Times, Dominion was incorporated in Toronto in 2003. The company is named after Canadas 1920 Dominion Elections Act, which allowed women and other underrepresented groups to vote.

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The companys founder, John Poulos, started the company in his basement. He wanted to make the voting experience easier for people with disabilities. Dominion technology included elements like audio readouts and large text reading screens.

The company expanded to the United States in 2009. It is headquartered in Denver, Colo.

Dominion sued Fox News, claiming that the broadcast network and its hosts knowingly aired false information about its voting machines and software. The parties reached a settlement Tuesday, after a jury had been selected.

In an interview last year for 60 Minutes, Poulos told Anderson Cooper that Foxs statements about his company had caused irreparable damage to Dominions reputation, his employees, and his family.

People have been put into danger. Their families have been put into danger. Their lives have been upended and all because of lies, Poulos said. It was a very clear calculation that they knew they were lies. And they were repeating them and endorsing them.

The founder added that his kids arent allowed to receive packages delivered to his familys home until they verify their origins because of the extreme reactions Foxs coverage prompted from its followers.
Azerbaijani Ombudswoman Sabina Aliyeva appealed to the world community and demanded to take decisive steps to bring Armenia to international legal responsibility for its numerous criminal acts against peaceful Azerbaijanis, including in the Bashlibel massacre.

According to Azernews, today marks the 30th anniversary of the massacre committed in Kalbajar Districts Bashlibel village in April 1993 as a continuation of the genocidal policy carried out by Armenia on the basis of strong hatred against Azerbaijan throughout history.

As a result of this bloody genocide against humanity, the village population, including children, women, disabled people, and the elderly, were subjected to various severe tortures and were mass-murdered, and some were even burned alive. At the same time, there were hostages among the villagers, and there is no information about the fate of those people who are considered missing, the statement noted.

Besides, it was noted that the entire infrastructure of Bashlibel, one of the oldest and largest villages of Kalbajar, including its historical, cultural and religious objects, was completely destroyed during the occupation.

The appeal pointed out that Armenians attacked 62 civilians after discovering their location in a cave, where they found shelter to save their lives during the occupation of Bashlibel village.

The liberation of Kalbajar District from occupation created the foundation for the discovery of the burial place of those people who were mercilessly killed by the Armenian armed forces, and their remains were exhumed and after their identities were determined, they were buried separately, the appeal stressed.

Moreover, the ombudswoman expressed pity over the fact that such numerous war crimes and crimes against humanity, as well as the acts of vandalism committed against the historical and cultural heritage of Azerbaijan, have not yet been given a legal assessment at the international level.
Opioid overdoses kill thousands of people each year in Pennsylvania, and settlement money is meant to help the state respond to the epidemic. Read more

Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters.

HARRISBURG  A historic settlement to resolve claims against opioid companies is expected to bring Pennsylvania more than $1 billion, but clashes over how to spend and oversee the money exemplify the divides in responding to an epidemic that kills thousands of residents a year.

Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro has described the funding as earmarked to offer and expand lifesaving treatment options. But the potential uses extend beyond medical treatment, and local leaders say they want to tailor the relief to their needs.

Some funding has already arrived, and these early conversations could shape how money from other opioid cases is spent. A second wave of settlements could bring more than a half a billion dollars more to the state, according to a recent public presentation from the state Attorney Generals Office. And that estimate didnt include all opioid cases.

In Pennsylvania, county government officials will control most of the funds  and some want to spend it on law enforcement, which has created an early point of contention and confusion.

A working group in Lancaster County suggested spending $275,000 a year from opioid settlement money for its drug task force, with the goal of preventing drug dealers from preying on our community.

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A commissioner in Butler County received a request from police to spend money on a device  which the commissioner said was estimated to cost about $100,000  that can quickly identify drugs.

Luzerne County District Attorney Sam Sanguedolce suggested spending settlement money on two deputy coroners to respond to opioid overdose deaths, noting that investigations of those deaths could lead to criminal charges against whoever provided the drugs. Sanguedolce also proposed spending money on two detectives for opioid investigations  along with guns, vests, and vehicles for them.

That burden shouldnt fall on the taxpayers out of our general budget, Sanguedolce told Spotlight PA and WESA, Pittsburghs NPR news station. And, quite frankly, we dont have spare money to throw around to increase the number of law enforcement officers out there.

Its unknown how many counties are considering spending opioid settlement money on law enforcement. Theres no one resource that tracks how counties are spending their money, and some are still in the early stages of deciding. The possible uses are broad. Settlement documents list a range of approved treatment services, education initiatives, and prevention programs, such as outreach to medical providers about best prescribing practices for opioids.

In Pennsylvania, a 13-member oversight board is responsible for ensuring counties and local governments spend money appropriately. In February, it provided guidance  which Spotlight PA and WESA obtained through open records requests  on the law enforcement issue. But questions remain about how much discretion counties ultimately will have, and how transparent the decision-making process will be both for counties and the oversight trust.

A range of harm reduction and public health advocates said in interviews theyre concerned that law enforcement spending could crowd out other priorities  such as the overdose-reversal drug naloxone, syringe service programs, and medications for opioid use disorder  that research has shown can reduce overdose deaths or lessen other risks.

I think its pretty clear in the history of drug policy here that  more focus on enforcement, more focus on incarceration, and more focus on coercion has never helped the situation under any circumstance, said Alejandro Alves, who works on overdose prevention issues for the international public health nonprofit Vital Strategies.

In Luzerne County, Pam Keefe doesnt want opioid settlement money to pay for more police officers to make more arrests. Her 22-year-old daughter Michalene Dougherty died from a drug overdose in 2018. Now, Keefe advocates for treatment and hands out overdose reversal medication and other supplies in hopes of reducing harm to people who use drugs.

They need to spend it on harm reduction, and they need to spend it on people not dying, she told Spotlight PA and WESA. They need to get people into treatment and get them into housing and things like that, but not jail  definitely not jail.

Shapiro has continued to focus on treatment. Days after taking office as governor, he appeared on Fox News and said a strong law enforcement response is needed but the state cant arrest its way out of the crisis.

Its one of the reasons why as attorney general, I took on the pharmaceutical companies and won and brought over a billion dollars back to Pennsylvania specifically earmarked for treatment, he said.

In response to questions from Spotlight PA and WESA, Shapiro spokesperson Manuel Bonder said money to counties and local governments will empower them to help those struggling with addiction  with clear, legally binding guidance on permissible uses and strategies for the deployment of settlement funds.

As we continue working to support law enforcement and make Pennsylvania communities safer, it is the Governors strong belief that this settlement funding is to be used for treatment, prevention, and the core strategies that will help the families and communities that have suffered the consequences of this crisis, Bonder added in the statement.

Who controls the spending?

In January 2022, then-Attorney General Shapiros office announced that all 67 counties had joined a national $26 billion opioid agreement with Johnson & Johnson and three major pharmaceutical distributors  Cardinal Health, McKesson, and AmerisourceBergen  over their role in creating and fueling the nationwide opioid crisis. The companies did not admit wrongdoing, and the money will be paid out over 18 years.

His statement called the agreement the most significant influx of resources to our Commonwealth to address this epidemic, jet-fueled by greedy pharmaceutical companies.

Each participating state is taking its own approach to distributing the funds.

In Pennsylvania, 70% goes to counties, based on a formula that guarantees a minimum of $1 million for each. Another 15% of funding goes to local governments that initiated their own litigation against companies, a category that also includes some counties. The remaining 15% goes to state lawmakers to control.

County commissioners, such as Kevin Boozel in Butler County, said they are acutely aware of the toll opioids have taken on their communities.

People died because of what happened, Boozel said. And so while you cant bring them back with this money, maybe you can keep some from ending up like the ones prior to them. Thats the whole goal of this.

For several years, Pennsylvania has had one of the countrys highest drug overdose death rates. In 2021, Pennsylvania had 5,350 fatal drug overdoses, and 78% of them involved fentanyl, state data show.

In July 2022, a court order established a trust that will oversee how counties and local governments spend their money from the Johnson & Johnson and drug distributors agreements. The order also said the trust will manage money from similar future opioid settlements.

In late March, the chair of the oversight trust said at a public meeting that the state had received about $130 million from the settlement with the three distributors and Johnson & Johnson, and that the majority of that money had been sent to counties.

Settlement documents say the money is intended for opioid remediation, which is broadly defined. The documents identify many priorities and approved uses. The list  known as Exhibit E  includes opioid overdose reversal drugs, medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder, recovery support, media campaigns to prevent opioid misuse, research, and regional planning.

The documents describe the list as non-exhaustive, and Exhibit E several times notes that funding isnt limited to what it specifically describes.

The court order establishing Pennsylvanias opioid trust says spending must be consistent with the requirements of Exhibit E. Brett Hambright, a spokesperson for the Attorney Generals Office, told Spotlight PA and WESA in an email that for uses not within Exhibit E, the subdivision must ask the trust. If the trust determines counties and local governments spent money inappropriately, and they dont fix the problem, the trust can cut their funding.

How much discretion counties end up having is an open question.

I think it really comes down to how those decision makers decide to wield their power, said Tricia Christensen, director of policy for the Community Education Group, which has been tracking local spending plans.

Law enforcement guidance and questions

Counties have taken various approaches to deciding how to spend their money, whom to involve in that process, and how to communicate such discussions with the public. Counties were supposed to file an annual report with the oversight trust by March 15 to show how they spent settlement money. But the trust waived that requirement for this year, according to records obtained by the newsrooms. In a March 1 email, an official with the Attorney Generals Office explained the decision, writing that it is unlikely any significant expenditures have taken place.

Meanwhile, the trust has operated mainly out of the public view, to the frustration of some harm reduction and treatment advocates. A court order in July 2022 established the responsibilities for the trust. But members didnt hold their first public meeting until late March.

However, records obtained by Spotlight PA and WESA show the trust was active before the first public meaning. In February, it provided an FAQ to counties that clarified issues such as whether counties can use opioid settlement money for law enforcement efforts to stop opioids from flooding into our communities.

In its reply, the trust wrote that if recipients want to spend opioid funds on enforcement, they can seek authorization from the Trustees and ultimately Commonwealth Court, and if approved may use funds for that purpose. The guidance stated that drug enforcement efforts were not explicitly authorized in Exhibit E.

Exhibit E specifies some expenses related to law enforcement, such as criminal justice diversion programs and education to law enforcement about opioid-related treatment.

Tom VanKirk, the former chief legal officer for Highmark Health and chair of the trust, said the details of the plans matter. He said he wouldnt expect the trust to approve spending to beef up their police departments and add more people, which might be being added for a number of different reasons.

If county officials ask for permission to spend money on law enforcement, and the trust denies it, they can appeal to Commonwealth Court, VanKirk said.

Lancaster County Commissioner Josh Parsons told Spotlight PA and WESA the law enforcement issue has been a little bit confusing.

In Lancaster County, Parsons led the working group that suggested in a written proposal to spend $275,000 out of an estimated $900,000 per year from a first allotment of opioid settlement money for preventing drug dealers from preying on our community. He said county officials initially believed opioid settlement money could be used for law enforcement if it was specifically directed at reducing illegal drug supply.

The group also suggested using money for several other initiatives, including education efforts for schoolchildren, a criminal justice diversion program, and medication-assisted treatment for people in county jail, as well as prevention and support services for infants exposed to addictive substances in the womb.

Parsons said commissioners have not yet approved opioid settlement money for the drug task force. He still believes law enforcement spending should be allowed.

If you want a holistic approach  you cant just deal with treatment, and prevention, and recovery, Parsons said. You have to also prevent illegal drugs from coming into the community.

Luzerne Countys district attorney made a similar argument.

Sanguedolce made his budget proposals in November. In March, he told Spotlight PA and WESA he hoped the county would soon approve them. Later, when asked about the trusts law enforcement guidance and its potential impact on funding opioid detectives, he said in an email that out of an abundance of caution, we would seek pre-approval prior to such use.

Public documents show the head of Luzerne Countys human services division in December recommended creating a committee and a formal process to determine how the opioid funds will be distributed. The list of top priorities from Luzerne Countys drug and alcohol department did not include drug enforcement efforts.

Tim McGinley, a Luzerne County Council member, told the newsrooms that the council hasnt approved spending opioid settlement money yet.

Everythings pretty much up in the air, McGinley said.

In Butler County, commissioners in February approved a resolution describing how they planned to spend about $977,000 in opioid settlement money. The list included medication-assisted treatment for people in the county jail, housing programs, community prevention, and recovery programs.

Boozel told Spotlight PA and WESA that he also received a request from law enforcement to spend opioid settlement money on a spectrometer, a high-tech device that can quickly identify types of drugs, such as fentanyl.

Boozel, whos also on the oversight trust, said he planned to turn to his fellow board members for guidance.

I cant authorize it yet, he said in an interview on March 23. Im gonna run it through the trust board and not vote on it.

Boozel took the question to his fellow trust members the next week, VanKirk told the newsrooms.

An advisory committee of the trust gave him guidance that that is permissible, VanKirk said. But that discussion wasnt public.

Why should it be? VanKirk said when questioned by Spotlight PA and WESA. We cannot do in public every single discussion that we have.  The public has a right to know how it was spent, not necessarily what all the discussions were about the pros and the cons.

In late March, VanKirk said the trust was working on a more formal process that would allow people to submit questions through the trust website, and we will answer it in writing so it is available to all of the payees. Boozel later told the newsrooms he planned to resubmit the question to the website so it can be cataloged and formally answered in that system. He declined to provide documents describing the proposal, saying they should be available online when it is introduced formally.

As of April 12, the newly launched trust website included a section to submit questions but its FAQ didnt include any specific answers about law enforcement.

For now, many harm reduction and treatment advocates are waiting to see how that money will be spent  and are looking for ways to influence those decisions.

People shouldnt have to be fighting to get information, said Jordan Scott, regional field organizer for the Pennsylvania Harm Reduction Network.   When you allow that transparency, thats also how you foster trust with community members.

WHILE YOURE HERE  If you learned something from this story, pay it forward and become a member of Spotlight PA so someone else can in the future at spotlightpa.org/donate. Spotlight PA is funded by foundations and readers like you who are committed to accountability journalism that gets results.
Officer Anthony Santulli (left) received a commendation from then-Commissioner Charles H. Ramsey in 2015 for his de-escalation tactics. Last weekend, Santulli allegedly bit a security guard at a rooftop bar in Center City. Read more

Officer Anthony Santulli was allegedly drunk, armed, and itching to get back inside the Hotel Monacos rooftop bar. He would not be deterred.

Santulli, 31, had already been kicked out at least once earlier Saturday evening, according to Philadelphia police records and law enforcement sources.

But about 1 a.m. Sunday, the off-duty officer made another effort to rejoin the party atop the hotel at Fifth and Chestnut Streets. A security guard stopped him and attempted to escort him downstairs.

Thats about the time, police say, when Santulli started biting.

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According to police records and sources, Santulli foiled the guard by pressing a bunch of buttons on the elevator, which caused it to return to the rooftop bar again, instead of the hotel lobby.

Then, Santulli allegedly punched the guard in the head and tackled him. Soon after, he chomped down on the guards hand or arm, thereby breaking the skin, requiring medical treatment, according to the arrest report.

The guard went to Jefferson Hospital and received a tetanus shot, sources said.

Santulli, a member of the Philadelphia Highway Patrol, an elite unit within the Philadelphia Police Department, has been charged with aggravated assault, reckless endangerment, public drunkenness, and related offenses. A lawyer representing him did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Sgt. Eric Gripp, a police spokesperson, said Santulli has been placed on desk duty. Jane Roh, a spokesperson for the District Attorneys Office, confirmed the arrest, but declined to comment on what she described as an active and ongoing investigation.

Santulli joined the Police Department in 2012. Last year, he earned about $130,000 in salary and overtime.

In 2015, Santulli and another officer received Tactical De-Escalation awards for their restraint in responding to a mentally ill man with a butcher knife in North Philly. In 2020, he graduated from the Philadelphia Highway Patrol Wheel School, according to the groups Facebook page.

The highway patrolmans arrest comes a month after another officer, Sgt. James Graber, was charged with aggravated assault and other crimes for allegedly hitting three people during a Roxborough bar fight after someone turned off the country music on the jukebox.

Santulli is not the first Philadelphia police officer to be arrested in an off-duty biting incident.

In 2012, then-Officer Aisha B. Pleasant was fired for allegedly biting the hand of an Atlantic City police officer during a struggle at Caesars Pier.

Although Pleasant pleaded guilty to resisting arrest and was fined $15,000 through a pretrial intervention program, the Philadelphia Fraternal Order of Police fought for two years to have her reinstated. An arbitrator ruled against Pleasant and the FOP in that case.
From top left, Kahlila Johnson, principal of Overbrook High School, and Lillian Izzard, principal of Edison High School. Center, Crystal Edwards, principal of W.D. Kelley Elementary; Amanda Jones, principal of Munoz-Marin Elementary School; and Diana Garcia, principal of the Frances F. Willard Elementary. Bottom, Heather Mull Miller, principal of Hunter Elementary School, and Alphonso Evans, principal of Stearne Elementary, are the winners of the 2023 Lindback Award for Distinguished Principal Leadership. Read more

Seven Philadelphia School District leaders have won 2023 Lindback Awards for Distinguished Principals and will be recognized at a ceremony Tuesday.

Facilitated by the Christian R. and Mary F. Lindback Foundation of Philadelphia since 2011, the annual recognition rewards principals who have made significant leadership and humanitarian contributions to their school community.

Each receives $20,000 for a project of their choosing.

 READ MORE: From the child of undocumented parents to a star principal, heres how this Philly educator thrives at her toughest job

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Heres what the winners plan to do with their prizes:

Crystal Edwards, W.D. Kelley Elementary School

Edwards wants to remodel and update every inch of the space with new books and materials that reflect my student population, their experiences, their history, their uniqueness, their joys and so much more. Edwards envisions a welcoming space that serves as a meeting area for parent and family partnerships, supports student literacy and anti-racist work, and offers modern technology and flexible seating. In a society driven by racial, ethnic, political, and socioeconomic divides, libraries still welcome everyone, Edwards said.

Kelley, on North 28th Street in North Philadelphia, educates 223 students in kindergarten through eighth grade.

Alphonso Evans, Stearne Elementary School

Evans envisions starting a media studio where students can explore music, recording, visual arts, photography, videography, journalism, public speaking, and more. The media studio will be used as a vehicle to uplift the area of mentorship for scholars, which is an area that is not mandated within our educational system, but equally as important as academia, Evans said. A quarter of Stearne students will have mentors in the 2023-24 school year, with more added every year until 2026-27, when all students will have mentors.

Stearne, on Unity Street in Frankford, enrolls 380 students in kindergarten through eighth grade.

Diana Garcia, Willard Elementary School

Sadly, in Kensington, our neighborhood playgrounds are no place for children, Garcia wrote. So she plans to use the $20,000 to begin planning and construction of a playground. Students gain self-confidence on playgrounds while improving their coordination and sharpening their critical thinking skills, she wrote.

Willard, on East Elkhart Street, enrolls 446 students in kindergarten through eighth grade.

Lillian Izzard, Edison High School

Izzard will create a Student Social Hub, a place for students and adults to build relationships. The space will be designed to create a welcoming environment at Edison, to use for incentives for attendance, academic, and behavior improvements. Given many students avid interest in video games, Izzard wants to set aside a space for esports, with gaming systems, furniture, TVs, and computers. Studies show that Black and Latino teens play video games in high rates, but hold just 2% of jobs in the gaming industry; the social hub will be designed for positive social interactions and to foster a possible interest in future careers.

Edison, on West Luzerne Street in Hunting Park, educates 907 students in ninth through 12th grades.

Kahlila Johnson, Overbrook High School

As a student at Overbrook High, Johnson had access to a robust school library where she could study, borrow books, and collaborate with peers. Johnson is now Overbrooks principal, but her students do not have this fundamental choice of sitting in a library  the room, used for storage, is filled with outdated books and nonfunctioning computers. Johnson wants to use the $20,000 to buy books and furniture and to beautify the library space.

Overbrook, on Lancaster Avenue, educates 900 students in ninth through 12th grades.

Amanda Jones, Munoz-Marin Elementary School

Jones sees Munoz-Marin as a gem in Fairhill, a community battling gun violence, poverty, the opioid epidemic, and illegal dumping. She wants to use the prize money to beautify the school campus. Jones partnered with a muralist and an arts organization this year to begin working on the beautification project, but only had funds for one class to participate. Additional money will allow for more students to work on projects of their own design, or those that celebrate their Latinx heritage.

Munoz-Marin, on North Third Street, enrolls 500 students in grades kindergarten through eighth grade.

Heather Mull Miller, Hunter Elementary School

Mull Miller wants to use the $20,000 to further Hunters efforts to create a place that works to repair the sometimes broken relationship families have with schools, a place children are heard and loved, a safe place where kids can be kids and where kids can take the risks required to grow. The room will host student-centered events and celebrations, class competitions, social-emotional materials, and assemblies.

Hunter, on North Front Street in Kensington, educates 900 students in kindergarten through eighth grade.
Diana Garcia, principal of Willard Elementary. She is the child of undocumented immigrants and now a winner of the 2023 Lindback Award for Principal Leadership. Read more

Some people might say Diana Garcia came from very little: Her parents were undocumented immigrants from Dominican Republic who sometimes lacked the money to buy clothes for the family. They never stepped foot in their childrens school buildings  they didnt speak English, and they didnt feel welcome.

But Garcia often says she comes from poverty, not dysfunction. Despite her parents lack of material means, there was abundant love at home, thrift store books  including a set of encyclopedias that had some volumes missing  and the pervasive sense that education would vault their bright daughter to a better life.

 READ MORE: These Philly principals have won 2023 Lindback Awards. Heres why.

Garcia, now the principal of Willard Elementary School in Kensington, surely has lived up to her parents dreams for her.

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She is one of seven winners of the 2023 Lindback Award for Distinguished Principal Leadership, a recognition of the Philadelphia leaders who have made significant leadership and humanitarian contributions to their school community. In addition to Garcia, the other winners include Crystal Edwards, W.D. Kelley Elementary; Alphonso Evans, Stearne Elementary; Lillian Izzard, Edison High; Kahlila Johnson, Overbrook High; Amanda Jones, Munoz-Marin Elementary; and Heather Mull Miller, Hunter Elementary.

I can relate to a lot of our kids, said Garcia. Ive walked the streets that theyve walked through to get to school. My message has always been, Your current situation does not dictate your future. If I did it, you can do it.

Garcia was born in New York, but her family settled in Philadelphia, and she attended public schools in North Philadelphia: Potter-Thomas Elementary, Stetson and Conwell middle schools, and Mastbaum High.

She earned a business degree at Chestnut Hill College, then felt called to the classroom. The Philadelphia School District needed bilingual teachers, and offered a path to certification through a teacher apprentice program.

Garcia never looked back. She landed at the now-closed Ferguson Elementary at Seventh and Norris, and has worked in education in North Philadelphia ever since  as a teacher and principal at district and charter schools.

Early in Garcias time as an apprentice teacher, she was clucking like a duck to demonstrate a concept to her students. She looked up to see her principal, Linda Hall, sitting in her classroom, observing. Garcia was terrified  was her unorthodox style OK?  but Hall was delighted, and went out of her way to let Garcia know she appreciated the lengths to which she went to ensure her students understood the material. That made an impression.

She trusted her teachers, she gave us room. She really found ways to acknowledge us, and she spoke highly of her team. She held us accountable, but she had faith that we would shine, Garcia said.

Thats the kind of principal Garcia aims to be, too. She cant talk about Willard without giving a shout-out to her staff  I just cant express how indebted and honored I am to work with this team, she said.

Serving as Willards principal is perhaps one of the hardest things she has done in her life, but also among the most rewarding, Garcia said.

The school sits in Kensington, where the citys opioid and gun violence epidemics touch everything. When she did a cleanup of surrounding streets a few years ago, a single block Garcia cleaned yielded 100 dirty needles.

In September, three people were shot outside Willard, and in March, bullets were fired into two Willard classrooms during the school day. Although no one was injured, the incidents have shaken the school community deeply, Garcia said.

Thats the toughest part of the job: the things from which Garcia and her staff cant protect their kids.

We can control deployment schedule, how many folks are at this doorway. But I cant control what happens down the street, up the block, after hours, in homes, Garcia said. We just work hard to send the message that when theyre here, theyre safe.

Yes, shes an instructional leader, Garcia said. But a big part of her job is removing barriers for students. So if a family needs beds, or rent money, or food, she finds community organizations to help. On a recent day, a student came to school in slides and socks, inappropriate for the weather and for running on the playground.

So Garcia pulled the child aside and had a private conversation with her. The little girl told her principal she had no other shoes. Garcia headed to a school closet full of donated clothes and shoes, and found her a new pair.

I respect these children so much, Garcia said. They walk through what they have to walk through. Some of them dont have basic needs. But they show up.

So do teachers and staff at Willard, where turnover is uncommon.

Coming here poses a risk, and our teachers understand that, and theyre still willing to come, Garcia said. And when you have a staff that understands the population and is committed to ensuring that the kids have a great school experience, the kids rise to the occasion.

Willard kids know it by heart: When Mrs. Garcia asks, How do I love you? they answer, No matter what.

Garcia is proud that Willards academic stats are headed in the right direction, with academic outcomes and attendance trending up.

But everything flows from relationships, Garcia said.

That sustains her on the tough days, when students act out, reeling from mental-health needs and trauma brought on by things they see in the community, or when there might be a lockdown because of neighborhood activity.

But the best part of my job is that on my worst day, Ill get a hug from a kid that just totally changed my demeanor and my life, said Garcia.
Mall staff and security entering the Ninth and Market Street entrance to Fashion District. Read more

Shortly after 2 p.m. Monday, three teenage girls tried to enter the Fashion District at the Ninth and Market Street entrance, and a security guard asked them for identification. They left. The security guard would repeat the request whenever anyone who appeared to be a minor came through the doors.

Outside, Philadelphia Police guarded the entrance on bikes.

Skyi Brown, 16, was hoping to treat herself for her upcoming birthday and was among those asked to leave.

Im trying to get some clothes, she said, thinking of where she could kill time before work now that her mall trip was dead.

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Obviously we cant go in, its a little weird to me, but it is what it is. We cant go against what they say.

Inside, an already quiet mall felt, well, quiet, as security guards at all entrances began enforcing a new age restriction. Anyone under 18 needs to be accompanied by someone whos at least 23 years old after 2 p.m.

Minors employed at the mall are still allowed in, with proof of work.

Earlier this month, mall management said the age restrictions were a way to address problems caused by large groups of teens after school and during spring break.

The move has people split. Youth advocates warn against villainizing young people who have limited spaces where they can hang out. Others say its too bad, but a few have ruined it for the rest.

The mall, which has struggled to live up to the promise of being a revitalizing force for Market East, was able to turn away unaccompanied teens easily. Like Brown, most didnt argue, even if they didnt agree.

The food court by the Jefferson Station entrance remained mostly empty  though most food stores were closed. One teen was told he couldnt cut through the mall to get to Market Street. Stores such as Claires, Journeys, and GameStop remained free of young people. Giggly teens talking about crushes or posing for social media were hard to find.

The checks created some confusion among people blessed with youthful glows.

You have to have ID to be at the mall now? said one woman as she whipped out her card, clearly annoyed. She cleared the check.

Meanwhile, Dyshon Bryant, 18, home from college to run some errands, said being able to hand over his card made him feel kind of grown-ish.

Its a step in the right direction, you get better security, said Bryant, as he learned about what prompted the age restrictions.

Hundreds of teens descended on the mall earlier in the month, resulting in a police response. Three teens were cited for disorderly conduct and a fourth for carrying an airsoft gun. Police said one officer suffered a knee injury chasing a suspect.

 READ MORE: Police give conflicting accounts over what happened at the Fashion District when hundreds of teens gathered

Still, 17-year-olds like Stephanie Humphreys and Samantha Nutley, whod made the trip from Bucks County, couldnt help but feel as though the Fashion District is making a mistake.

Its a lot of money being lost, said Humphreys, ready to spend her paycheck on summer clothes.

The teens skewered the mall for the decision in a way only teens know how, calling it a dry mall and really boring, without a youth presence. Nutley accused the Fashion District of wasting resources and taking away another thing youth has.

Nutley, who had a boot on her foot, said she understood the intent of wanting to keep disruption to a minimum but didnt think locking teens out is the way.

Im in a boot, she said. What disruption are we gonna do?

As the after-school rush came and went, few teens tried to make it through the Jefferson Station entrance.

Maybe the kids got the memo, joked one man to the posted guard.

The guard just shrugged his shoulders as another teen approached.
Vandalism on the base of the Robert Morris statue in Independence National Historic Park on Tuesday. Preservationists are having a difficult time removing it. Read more

A statue of Founding Father Robert Morris in Independence National Historical Park will now bear the words human trafficer as conservationists struggle to the remove the graffiti.

The misspelled annotation is written on the base of the statue in what appears to be permanent marker, according to an Instagram slide show posted by Independence National Historical Park on Monday.

The statue is behind the Second Bank of the United States at 420 Chestnut St. The use of indelible ink, plus the statues base of marble, a porous material, makes the graffiti difficult to remove, the National Park Service said. conservationists tried to delete the markings with nonabrasive chemicals, which only lightened it, the Park Service said.

Then, they moved onto laser treatment that Independence National Historical Park has used previously, which had the same effect.

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Professional conservators within and outside of [the National Park Service] will explore and consider other methods and means to remove the graffiti. Testing of these methods will begin shortly, the park wrote on Instagram. INHP will continue to tell comprehensive stories of the nations history.

Vandalizing, destroying, or injuring national park property is a federal crime punishable by up to six months in prison and a $500 fine.

Often called the financier of the American Revolution, Morris was a signer of the Declaration of Independence and Constitution who amassed at least a portion of his wealth through the slave trade. Morris, alongside his business partner Thomas Willing, sold about 170 slaves from Ghana in Wilmington, N.C., before pivoting to host slave auctions.

Morris and Willing also briefly owned a 3,000-acre Baton Rouge, La., plantation called Orange Grove, where they oversaw 40 enslaved Africans before the property was expropriated by the Spanish.

Each of these ventures was apparently a money-losing operation, according to a 2005 Inquirer article.

There is no way that Robert Morris could have taken money from slavery and put it in that bank, a descendant of the Founding Father told Inquirer reporter Joseph N. DiStefano.

Philadelphia, like much of the United States, began evaluating its monuments  and who they lionize  in the summer of 2020, when the police killing of George Floyd sparked a national movement to topple symbols of systemic racism.

Per a study from Philly-based arts nonprofit Monument Lab, more than half of the 50 historical figures most often depicted in statues were enslavers, including Christopher Columbus, whose Marconi Square statue became the center of a long legal battle after the Philadelphia Historical and Art Commissions voted to remove the statue from Marconi Plaza.

Under Independence National Historical Parks Instagram post, some commenters were supportive of the graffiti, hoping it would lead to the removal of the Morris statue.

Im a tour guide in historic Philly  but even I cant figure out why we have a statue for him, wrote one Instagram user. Surely there are better Philadelphians that deserve statues?

Probably shouldnt have had his statue up in the first place, wrote another.
Rachel King, 35, of Elkins Park, was shot and killed in Cheltenham Township on April 11. King was a teacher for 10 years at Grover Cleveland Mastery Charter School Read more

Nearly a week after Rachel King, a popular teacher at a Philadelphia charter school, was shot to death as she sat with her son in a Dunkin drive-thru in Cheltenham, authorities are still searching for her killer as her family hopes for swift justice.

King, 35, of Elkins Park, was shot and killed in front of her 11-year-old son, Jalen, in what authorities are calling a targeted murder.

The shooter tailed King in a light-colored sedan before parking near the drive-thru, then walked over to Kings SUV and shot her several times before fleeing, authorities said. No arrests had been made, and authorities say they do not know the motive for the crime, which they have described as deliberate and calculated.

As Kings family makes funeral arrangements, they are reeling from their loss and pushing for Kings killer to be brought to justice.

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Were praying for swift justice, her father, Allen King Jr., said Monday. Because there are consequences to actions and behaviors.  And we want justice as it is described by the laws of our land, to be in full effect.

Kings brother, Matt, 28, called the crime heinous and said he could not fathom why anyone would want to hurt his sister.

Where is this killer? he asked. ... We need to find out who this person is.

Kings father, a pastor, said he had counseled many members of his church through mourning and grief, but nothing prepared him for the loss of his daughter.

This is uncharted waters for me, he said. I have two college degrees. But I never took a course in how to deal with tragedy. So its every day. Every half a day. Every hour, from minute to minute, its a challenge. The pain is indescribable.

King was on the way to take her son to violin practice around 7:30 a.m. on the morning she was killed, her father said.

King had raised Jalen, an only child, on her own as a single mom, with the help of her family, her father and brothers said.

If I were not her father, I would have marveled and been amazed at the tremendous job she did as a mom, Allen King Jr. said.

Kings death has hit Jalen particularly hard, her family said.

Hes struggling, Kings brother Allen King III said of his nephew. Hes talking, hes eating, but its shock. Hes carrying around a picture of his mother, my sister, everywhere he goes. Wont let it go.

Kings family described her as upbeat, bright, and funny, with a knee-slapping sense of humor. She was devoted to her family, especially Jalen, they said, and she adored her students at Grover Cleveland Mastery Charter School, where she had taught for 10 years, most recently as a history teacher for seventh and eighth graders.

Rachel was loved by so many people. Her energy was Im going to make sure you love me, her brother Matt said. To know Rachel is to love Rachel.

Beyond her family, King is mourned by students and colleagues at Mastery Charter, where school officials say she was one of the students favorite teachers. She often stayed after school to mentor students, her brother Allen said, and some would come back to visit her classroom years later.

There were kids who came back from 10 years ago to see Ms. King, her brother said. Do you know the kind of impact you have to have on someones life in fifth grade for them to come back 10 years later to see the teacher? Not to see the school, just the teacher.

Last week, Kings family, friends, coworkers, and students held a balloon release ceremony in her honor at the school.

We are devastated by the loss of an extraordinary teacher, who spent the last 10 years working with our students and their families, the school said in a statement.

On the schools Instagram, principal Max Tartar wrote, Ms. King represented the best of what we set out to be every day for our students.  To have been taught by Rachel was to forever be Ms. Kings Favorite Student.

Police continue to investigate the shooting that took Kings life. They are searching for the vehicle the shooter was driving  a light-colored sedan that appeared to be a Ford or Mercury. And they are asking for the publics help in identifying the gunman, who was described as having a thin build, wearing light-colored pants, and a dark hooded sweatshirt that obscured his face in surveillance video captured from nearby businesses.

Anyone with information about the crime is asked to call the Cheltenham Township Police Department at 215-885-1600 Ext. 400) or Montgomery County Detectives at 610-226-5553. Tipsters may also call the Montgomery County Detective Tip Line at 610-278-DOIT (3648), and anonymous text tips can be submitted using MontcoCrimeTips on the STOPit! app.

Her family, meanwhile, is planning a funeral, to be held Saturday at Salem Baptist Church of Abington. The viewing is at 8 a.m., with a funeral service to follow at 10 a.m.

The gathering will be at once mournful and celebratory, honoring a life that her father described in this way: She impacted so many lives. Certainly more than we even dared imagine until this tragedy has occurred. And while my daughter was not famous  she didnt have great notoriety throughout the land or throughout the world  she wasnt famous. But she was great. She was great.
The primary is less than a month away!

The field has thinned a bit over the last week or so, with former Councilmembers Maria Quinones Sanchez and Derek Green dropping out of the mayors race. But five viable contenders are still running in the May 16 Democratic primary.

Have questions for us about the race? Anna will be doing a Reddit AMA this afternoon at 1 p.m. Hop on over to the Philadelphia subreddit and ask away.

Just 28 days  left until Election Day. Get the information you need about every candidate here.

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 Anna Orso and Sean Collins Walsh

If you see this  in todays newsletter, that means were highlighting our exclusive journalism. You need to be a subscriber to read these stories.

Philly will be better off if everyone has the facts they need to make an informed decision about this election. If someone forwarded you this email, sign up for free here.

Lets talk lanes

In elections like this years mayors race, people often talk about about candidates lanes or paths to victory, which means identifying the voters they have a realistic chance at winning over and analyzing whether that will be enough to get them over the finish line.

Lets look at the potential paths to victory for the top five contenders:

As the only Black candidate among the top contenders and a favorite of many Democratic insiders, former City Councilmember Cherelle Parker has one of the most easily identifiable paths to victory. She needs to run up the score in her home base  Northwest Philadelphia neighborhoods like West Oak Lane  and win comfortably in Black neighborhoods in West and North Philadelphia. She is also hoping to expand her support into the Northeast, where she has won over some ward leaders, and with establishment-aligned voters across the city. Former City Councilmember Helen Gyms path is also clear to see. Shes a leader of the citys progressive movement and will almost certainly dominate in young, gentrifying neighborhoods like Cedar Park, Fishtown, and East Passyunk. She will also find friendly voters among liberals in Center City and could pick up support across the city thanks to her years as a high-profile public education activist. Former City Controller Rebecca Rhynhart is perhaps best situated for a strategy that casts a wide net across the city. While her base appears to be older liberal voters in Center City, Rhynhart has also built support in progressive and pro-business quarters. She beat a party-backed incumbent in her 2017 victory for controller, making her the only candidate in the race to have prevailed in a winner-take-all citywide race. Former City Councilmember Allan Domb is likely to get some votes from all pockets of the city thanks to his ubiquitous TV ads, made possible by the $7 million (and counting) of his own money that he has poured into his campaign. But as a real estate magnate with a tough-on-crime message, his base is likely to be among white working-class voters in Northeast Philadelphia and pro-business voters in Center City. ShopRite proprietor and first-time candidate Jeff Brown has had an interesting journey. At first, Brown, who is white, aggressively courted Black voters, pointing to his work opening stores in underserved neighborhoods. But after missteps and an ethics scandal, Brown last week touted the endorsement of Phillys police union, which is usually what a candidate does when they are  how do we say this  doing the opposite of trying to win over Black voters. Brown will likely win a significant amount of votes in the Northeast. Where else he ends up getting support remains a wild card.

To be clear, all of the major candidates will likely get at least some votes from every pocket of the city. But winning candidates typically have a strong base that they build out from.

As you can see, some of the candidates are fishing from the same pond. Rhynhart and Gym are both vying for liberal Center City voters, and Domb and Brown both probably need strong margins in the Northeast if they are going to win.

And dont forget about turnout. While Parker appears to have little competition for establishment-aligned Black voters, their share of the electorate has decreased over time, meaning she, too, will have to expand beyond her base to be successful.

Read more here about the state of the race with one month to go.

Spotlight on: Supervised-injection sites

News broke last week that years-long settlement talks between the feds and the nonprofit that has proposed launching a supervised-injection site in the city could soon clear the way for establishing such a facility here.

Opening such a facility would likely require the mayors blessing, and Mayor Jim Kenney has been a proponent of the strategy. But three of the top five candidates to replace him have already said theyre against it.

Click here for a rundown of where each of the candidates stand on the issue, and what theyve said recently about whether its a viable strategy to tackle the citys long-running opioid crisis.

The 67th mayor: Robert T. Conrad was a playwright

A judge, author, and talented public speaker, Robert T. Conrad won the consequential 1854 mayors race in a landslide after being nominated by two conservative political parties that are no longer with us.

As an orator, his personal appearance, melodious voice, and unembarrassed address, at once prepossessed an audience, whom he soon proceeded to carry away with his finished rhetoric and earnest elegance, The New York Times reported in Conrads 1858 obituary. Indeed, the remarkable success of the combined ticket in his election for Mayor, was mainly due to his own brilliant self advocacy.

Sounds like unembarrassed self-advocacy has a long history in Philly politics. Weve seen no shortage of it in this years mayoral election.

Here are some fun facts about this fascinating former mayor:

Conrad was the last nominee from the conservative Whig Party to be elected mayor of Philadelphia. The Whigs had a good run, holding the mayors office for all but two years from 1832 to 1856. The Republican Party, the spiritual descendant of the Whigs, established their centurylong dominance of city politics shortly after his tenure. Conrad was also nominated by the Know Nothings, a xenophobic political party that opposed the arrival of largely Catholic immigrants from Europe. He was a playwright, and he wrote Jack Cade, the piece that gave world-famous Philadelphia stage actor Edwin Forrest one of his most well-known roles. Conrad produced it for a contest Forrest organized in which writers submitted plays that would fit his strengths as an actor. Conrad was the first mayor to serve after the 1854 merger of Philadelphias city and county governments. Before, the city was just one of several municipalities in Philadelphia County. But the Act of Consolidation made the city and county lines one and the same, and consequently made the mayor the chief executive of a much larger operation. He died suddenly at age 48 in his West Philadelphia home, and is buried at Laurel Hill Cemetery.

 Sean Collins Walsh

What were reading

The Inquirers election team has spent months interviewing the candidates and digging into their records to produce profiles of the major contenders.

Check out what theyre about with these deep dives on the contenders and the key questions that their candidacies present.

Events this week

Today at 1 p.m., join Anna here for a Reddit AMA all about the mayors race. Today at 7:30 p.m., the candidates will gather at Holy Family University for a forum organized by the Northeast Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce. It will be broadcast on PHL17 and livestreamed on PHL17.com. Thursday at 5:30 p.m., the Philadelphia Association of Black Journalists will host a candidates forum at the Museum of the American Revolution.

Scenes from the campaign trail

Will 2023 be Philadelphias Year of the Woman? The city has never elected a female mayor, but candidates (from left) Helen Gym, Cherelle Parker, and Rebecca Rhynhart are working to change that.

We explored the potential of history being  made this year in a recent piece, and let the women running for mayor weigh in on the significance of the race. 

Catch you next week. In the meantime, well be rooting for the 76ers to make it a quick, clean, injury-free series with the Nets.

 Anna Orso and Sean Collins Walsh
Dionne Finley with newly purchased flower, part of the cannabis plant, in Williamstown, on the first day of recreational cannabis sales in New Jersey in 2022. Read more

Dispensaries across Pennsylvania and New Jersey are celebrating April 20  also known as Weed Day  with promotions ready to go for patients and adult-use consumers all week long.

According to legend, the term comes from 70s-era California Bay-Area stoners overhearing police use the code 420 to signal to other officers that someone was smoking marijuana in public. Local weed consumers and fans of The Grateful Dead (or deadheads) started using the code when it was time to spark up their favorite flower, usually occurring at 4:20 a.m./p.m. The trend soon turned into an annual gathering on April 20 that kickstarted a national holiday, with its popularity exploding in the 90s, according to former High Times magazine editor, Steve Bloom.

 READ MORE: Everything you need to know about weed in Pennsylvania and New Jersey

Today, with the legal weed industry booming, cannabis companies celebrate 4/20 by offering discounts on products at their dispensaries. If you need a refresher on cannabis, check out The Inquirers webpage with all of our cannabis guides on marijuana laws, buying legally and a breakdown of all the different kinds of cannabis products offered.

Here are the 4/20 deals and discounts for Pennsylvania medical and New Jersey medical and adult-use dispensaries.

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Pennsylvania medical discounts

Located in Plymouth Meeting, Thorndale and Lancaster.

Expect more deals to be announced on April 20, but in the meantime heres what theyre offering: Eighth (3.5g) of Cookies-brand flower for $5 to the first 100 patients to make a purchase at all Terrascend locations.

Find a dispensary near you at shop.apothecarium.com.

Located in Northern Liberties, Center City, University City, Ardmore, Bristol, West Chester, Allentown and Reading.

Monday, April 17:

30% off Holistic vape products 30% off all Curaleaf products 25% off all flower

Tuesday, April 18:

30% off all Organic Remedies products 30% off Insa flower 25% off all vapes and cartridges

Wednesday, April 19:

30% off all Organic Remedies products 30% off Insa flower 30% off all Farmaceutical Rx products 25% off all concentrates

Thursday, April 20 (4/20):

Buy 2, Get 30% off (full-priced items) 30% off all Jushi products 30% off all Verano products 30% off all AYR products 30% off all Insa products 30% off all Illera products 30% off all Prime products 30% off all Farmaceutical Rx products

Find a dispensary near you at beyond-hello.com/pennsylvania-dispensaries.

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Located in Philadelphia (one on City Ave., one on Passyunk Ave.), King of Prussia, Morton, Horsham, Allentown.

Monday, April 17 to Sunday, April 23:

40% off Grassroots, Select & Curaleaf products 25% off Storewide 50% off 500mg Cliq brand pods $35 Cresco Liquid Live Resin cartridges 50% off 1g of Insa brand kief 1g with any purchase

Find a dispensary near you at curaleaf.com/dispensary/pennsylvania.

Located in Stroudsburg, Bethlehem and Allentown.

Expect more deals to be announced on April 20, but in the meantime heres what theyre offering: Eighth (3.5g) of Cookies-brand flower for $5 to the first 100 patients to make a purchase at all Terrascend locations.

Find a dispensary near you at keystonecannaremedies.com.

Located in Doylestown, Elkins Park, Fishtown, Lancaster, Pottstown and Yeadon.

Monday, April 17 to Wednesday, April 19:

25% off Storewide (Spend $500 or more and receive an extra 5% off)

Thursday, April 20 (4/20):

40% off Storewide (Spend $500 or more and receive an extra 5% off)

Friday, April 21:

25% off Storewide (Spend $500 or more and receive an extra 5% off!)

Find a dispensary near you at restoredispensaries.com/locations.

Located in Ambler, Butler, Erie, Lancaster, Montgomeryville, New Kensington, Philadelphia  Chestnut St. and City Ave., Phoenixville, Pittsburgh, and Wyomissing.

Monday, April 17 to Wednesday, April 19

$50 off purchases of $200 or more, $100 off purchases of $350 or more, $175 off purchases of $500 or more. $25 Eighths (3.5g) Supply brand flower $10 off Cresco brand 500mg Liquid Live Resin Cartridges $15 off Cresco brand 1g Liquid Live Resin Cartridges $10 off Grassroots brand Eighths (3.5g) & Quarters (7g) of flower

Thursday, April 20 (4/20):

$25% off Storewide 30% off all Cresco, FloraCal Farms, Supply and Remedi brand products Spend $200 and get a Supply brand disposable pen for $1

Friday, April 21 to Sunday, April 23:

25% off Storewide 30% off all Cresco, FloraCal Farms, Supply and Remedi brand products Spend $200 and get Supply brand disposable pen for $1

Find a dispensary near you at sunnyside.shop/locations.

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Located in South Philly, Center City, King of Prussia, Devon, Coatsville, Allentown and Reading.

Monday, April 17 to Wednesday, April 19:

20% off Storewide from 3 p.m.-6 p.m. 30% off Cultivar Collection, Moxie, Muse, or Modern Flower products (excludes Modern Flower Ground)

Thursday, April 20 (4/20):

40% off Cultivar Collection, Moxie, Muse, Modern Flower, or Pure Penn products (excludes Modern Flower Ground) 25% off Storewide (Excludes R.O. Ground, Modern Flower Ground and PuffCo Devices) 25% off Eighths (3.5g) of Khalifa Kush

Friday, April 21 to Sunday, April 23:

20% off Storewide (excludes Khalifa Kush, R.O. products, Modern Flower Ground and PuffCo Devices) 30% off Cultivar Collection, Moxie, Muse or Modern Flower products (excludes Modern Flower Ground)

Find a dispensary near you at trulieve.com/dispensaries/pennsylvania.

New Jersey medical discounts

Located in Deptford and Vineland.

Thursday, April 20 (4/20):

Four Eighths for $100 (Includes 3.5g Pre-roll packs) Four packs of edibles for $65 (Includes Hedy brand Gummies, Press 2.0 brand tablets & Press brand orally dissolvable tablets)

Find a dispensary near you at gocannabist.com.

Located in Bellmawr, Edgewater Park and Bordentown.

Monday, April 10 to Sunday, April 23:

Get Orange Matter X-bites for $18 each and 1g Curaleaf Pre-rolls for $10 each (while supplies last)

Wednesday, April 19 to Saturday, April 22:

Mix and match Eighths (3.5g) up to .5oz or 1oz and get a discount. 4 Eighths (.5oz) for $150, or 8 Eighths (1oz) for $250.

Thursday, April 20 (4/20):

20% off Curaleaf, Select & Grassroots products At every New Jersey Curaleaf location, the first 250 people in line can get one $1 Curaleaf Pre-roll. Spend $150 and get an Orange Matter X-bite for $1

Find a dispensary near you at curaleaf.com.

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Located in Glassboro and is for New Jersey medical marijuana patients only.

Monday, April 17 to Wednesday, April 19:

25% off Storewide

Thursday, April 20:

40% off Storewide

Friday, April 21:

25% off Storewide

Find a dispensary near you at restoredispensaries.com/locations.

These deals are available at Sweetspots Voorhees location at 903 White Horse Road, Voorhees Township, NJ  which is medical only.

Monday, April 17

Miss Grass Popup from 3:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. with $5 off Miss Grass Pre-Rolls

Tuesday, April 18:

Hillview Farms Popup from 3 p.m.-5 p.m. with cannabis drink company, Kalo, giving out Kalo CBD drinks and giving away swag to customers who buy Hillview products.

Wednesday, April 19:

Airo Popup from 12 p.m.-2 p.m. with 20% off Airo vape pods and battery devices. Crops popup from 1 p.m.-3 p.m. with the first 30 patients to buy a Crops product will receive a 1g Crops Pre-Roll for free.

Thursday, April 20 to Sunday, April 23

25% off Storewide The first 100 patients to make a purchase on Thursday, April 20 will receive a free tie-dye 4/20 shirt. The first 100 patients to spend over $150 on Thursday, April 20 will receive a free accessory.

Week-Long Promos

White Sweepot Voorhees T-Shirt giveaway all week except on Thursday, April 20. All patients who make a purchase between April 17 to April 23 will be entered into a raffle for a PuffCo products giveaway. The winner will be picked on Monday, April 24.

Find a dispensary near you at sweetspotfarms.com.

New Jersey adult-use discounts

Located in Maplewood, Lodi and Phillipsburg.

Expect more deals to be announced on April 20, but in the meantime heres what theyre offering: $1 Pre-Roll for the first 100 adult-use customers to make a purchase.

Find a dispensary near you at shop.apothecarium.com.

Advertisement

Located in Deptford and Vineland.

Thursday, April 20 (4/20):

Four Eighths for $100 (Includes 3.5g Pre-roll packs) Four packs of edibles for $65 (Includes Hedy brand Gummies, Press 2.0 brand tablets & Press brand orally dissolvable tablets)

Find a dispensary near you at gocannabist.com.

Located in Bellmawr, Edgewater Park and Bordentown.

Monday, April 10 to Sunday, April 23:

Get Orange Matter X-bites for $18 each and 1g Curaleaf Pre-rolls for $10 each (while supplies last)

Wednesday, April 19 to Saturday, April 22:

Mix and match Eighths (3.5g) up to .5oz or 1oz and get a discount. 4 Eighths (.5oz) for $180, or 8 Eighths (1oz) for $320.

Thursday, April 20 (4/20):

At every New Jersey Curaleaf location, the first 250 people in line can get one $1 Curaleaf Pre-roll. Spend $150 and get an Orange Matter X-bite for $1

Find a dispensary near you at curaleaf.com.
Helen Gym unveiled a public-safety plan Monday with a long list of new and expanded city services, including an army of therapists, free crime-scene cleanup, nighttime hours at libraries and recreation centers, and guaranteed jobs for some people under 30.

But the Philadelphia mayoral candidate and former City Council member did not offer a cost estimate. Asked how shed fund the guaranteed employment proposal, Gym said her administration would first focus on vulnerable young people and those who live in underserved communities.

I assume its going to be a significant effort, and I think there are significant dollars that are currently available, she said, but we dont have a commitment or a plan right now.

A spokesperson said Tuesday that Gym was referring to the citys lack of clear plan and commitment, not her campaigns.

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The ambitious strategy to tackle the citys persistent gun-violence crisis, which she announced in a West Philadelphia park alongside district Councilmember Jamie Gauthier, leans heavily on social services. It comes two weeks after she released a detailed education agenda that includes free SEPTA passes for all city students and a $10 billion plan to modernize school buildings.

 READ MORE: Philly mayoral candidate Helen Gyms education plan includes a $10B Green New Deal for schools

Gym, the most progressive of the five major contenders vying for the Democratic nomination ahead of the May 16 primary, is not the only one who has floated new strategies without specifying how the city would pay for them. For instance, former Councilmember Cherelle Parkers plan involves hiring 300 new police officers, and businessman Jeff Browns includes expanding workforce development programs  proposals that were unveiled without specific funding streams.

But compared with her rivals, Gyms proposals on public safety and education include, by far, the largest expansions of city services and programs. They include more funding for public defenders and police oversight; universal access to mental-health treatment in neighborhoods most affected by violence; city assistance for block parties; a fund for funeral expenses; and improvements that make every school a community school.

Opponents have already criticized Gyms agenda. During a debate last week, Parker called Gyms education plan imaginary and said, What taxes will you raise? What services will you cut?

After the debate, Gym retorted that Parkers comments were from somebody who doesnt have a creative way on how to leverage investments for our schools.

Gym has been noncommittal on whether or how she would change the citys tax structure if she were elected. She has said she would convene a new tax commission to overhaul it. As a City Council member, she opposed reductions to the citys wage and business taxes, and has on the campaign trail been critical of opponents who say they would cut taxes but not city services.

To pay for her education plan, Gym said, the city can borrow cash over 10 years to fund capital projects, and should explore increasing the share of funding the School District receives from city property taxes. The $10 billion facilities proposal is alone a large expense  under the current administration, the proposed capital investment for the entire city for the next six years is $13.2 billion.

As for the public-safety plan, which also includes expanding antiviolence programs that target people at risk of violence, Gym said Monday that the city could redeploy some of its existing $200 million budget for prevention programs outside policing.

 READ MORE: Get to know the top candidates for Philly mayor

Gym said she sees city dollars as seed funding for much of the work, and would also aggressively advocate for more state dollars and tap philanthropic organizations for support.

Once we start to show and demonstrate what the plan actually looks like, how were going to engage people, she said, I think that youll see an outpouring of interest and energy.

Asked whether she would redirect part of the $800 million police budget to cover her priorities, she said she wouldnt call it taking money away; I think there may be overlap in there.

While the plan is largely focused on services outside law enforcement, it also proposes promoting more police officers to the detective level to expand the ranks of investigators who can probe shootings and homicides. She said the city must also invest more in modernizing its crime lab.

Other parts of her proposal do not necessarily require new funding streams, such as declaring a citywide emergency over crime.

She said the next administration must be ambitious in how it tackles the biggest issue facing the city.

Ill be damned if I lose another young person to these streets, Gym said. Weve got billions of dollars at our disposal. And weve got more to offer than anything that these corners do.
John Thomas (left), Alexandra Hunt (center), and Christy Brady (right) are running in the May 16 Democratic primary for Philadelphia city controller. Read more

The city controller is Philadelphias fiscal watchdog and chief auditor.

But what exactly does the controller do?

Three candidates  Christy Brady, Alexandra Hunt, and John Thomas  are running in the May 16 Democratic primary, and the winner is likely to become the next city controller given the deep-blue leaning of city voters. Heres what you need to know about them and the office theyre vying to lead.

What does the city controller do?

As an independent government official, the controller is responsible for evaluating the finances and practices of city departments and the school district. The controllers office helps investigate:

Whether a department is spending its money according to budget allocations. Instances of fraud. The viability of the citys five-year plan. City contract compliance.

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Under former Controller Rebecca Rhynhart, who resigned last year to run for mayor, the offices work included exposing the Philadelphia Police Departments controversial Heart and Lung benefits for shoddy record keeping and inadequate accountability, evaluating the citys antiviolence spending, and releasing a dashboard tracking the School District of Philadelphias asbestos abatement projects.

 READ MORE: Your no-nonsense guide to the May 2023 Democratic primary for mayor, Council, and row offices

There are four divisions of the controllers office: The pre-audit division analyzes a departments spending before it happens to make sure the citys bid process is running as it should; the audit division examines each city department and the School District; the investigation unit responds to tips to suss out fraud, waste, and corruption; and the finance, policy, and data division compares city policy with best practices.

The controller also serves in several leadership roles, including holding positions on:

The Board of Pensions and Retirement, which manages investments to ensure the city has enough money to pay people whove earned benefits. The Philadelphia Gas Commission, which oversees the function and management of PGW. The Bond Committee, which approves bonds the city issues and assesses the citys capacity to take on debt. The Sinking Fund Commission, which oversees investments made to provide for PGW employee pension benefits.

Who is Christy Brady?

Christy Brady became the first woman appointed deputy controller in 2017, under then-controller Alan Butkovitz.

I didnt appoint Christy because shes a woman, Butkovitz said at the time. I did it because shes the most qualified for the job.

Brady, 50, became acting controller in November when Rhynhart resigned. She was an establishment favorite even before she resigned to run for the position, and has earned the backing of the Democratic City Committee and the Building Trades Council.

Brady graduated from Philadelphia University with a degree in accounting, and began working at the controllers office 28 years ago as an entry-level employee.

I could never have imagined on that day that I would be standing here in front of you and announcing my candidacy for city controller, Brady said at her campaign announcement event in February.

Brady outlined five main priorities: public safety, the citys drug epidemic, education, tax collection improvement, and what she called an illegal worker and unscrupulous contractor problem.

Brady also highlighted the citys growing wealth disparities and government accountability and said shed keep an eye on the Department of Licenses and Inspections and its enforcement of building code violations and unlicensed construction workers.

Who is Alexandra Hunt?

Alexandra Hunt, 29, grew up in Rochester, N.Y., and settled in Philadelphia after earning a bachelors degree in psychology from the University of Richmond.

She also earned masters degrees in health science and public health from Drexel and Temple, respectively. Hunts public health-oriented career aspirations  she wanted to become a doctor  are what first sparked her interest in running for office.

She decided to run for office while volunteering during the pandemic and seeing people waiting in a long line for free food. It was a systemic failure, she said.

Hunt unsuccessfully challenged U.S. Rep. Dwight Evans (D., Phila.) in 2020. Despite her loss, she pulled in hundreds of thousands of dollars and earned a nationwide following.

I decided to continue to keep fighting to keep the momentum of the movement that we had built for Congress, she said of her run for controller. Hunt believes that, if she wins, she can really directly start making changes.

Hunts campaign made headlines for her work as an exotic dancer while in college. She said she felt compelled to disclose her past job because I was concerned somebody [would] see my face and be like, Oh, I remember her from a very different setting.

Still, she continues to operate an Only Fans account and listed income from the website on her statement of financial interest. Hunt has also used other forms of social media in nontraditional ways, such as recruiting volunteers on Bumble, a dating app.

Hunt has been supported by Progressive Victory, an Internet-based political volunteer group.

Who is John Thomas?

John Thomas said his small-town Southern upbringing sparked his interest in diversity and inclusion. Originally from Prattville, Ala., Thomas, 65, moved to Southwest Philadelphia at age 14.

Thomas went to West Chester University before graduating from Temple University with an accounting degree.

Like Brady, hes been a longtime government employee. Thomas served as legislative assistant for former City Councilmember Marian Tasco.

Thomas also worked at the Pennsylvania Department of the Auditor General and spent 10 years as a senior analyst for the Philadelphia Gas Commission before working as a deputy controller for 12 years.

While in the controllers office, Thomas zeroed in on ensuring diverse contracting, investigating barriers that diverse and women-owned firms face in winning city contracts. He also led an investigation showing that prime contractors, who are mostly white, were falsely exaggerating their payments to diverse and women-owned firms.

Thomas also suspended a contractor who wasnt honoring a diversity commitment, the first time in history a contractor was suspended for diversity noncompliance in Philadelphia, he said.

Thomas priorities include city financial transparency, diversity and inclusion in city contracting, making sure city services are delivered equitably, and investigating the financial feasibility of fixing school buildings.

The controllers office is a powerful bully pulpit, he said.

Although he doesnt have the official party support, Thomas has been endorsed by the Laborers District Council, State Rep. Stephen Kinsey, and Tasco.
Three of the top five Democratic contenders running for mayor say they oppose establishing a supervised-injection site in Philadelphia, meaning the May primary election could determine the future of such a facility in the city.

Years-long settlement talks between the U.S Justice Department and the nonprofit that has proposed launching a site in Philadelphia could soon clear the way for establishing such a site, where people could consume drugs under medical supervision.

Proponents  including Mayor Jim Kenney  have said supervised-injection sites are a harm-reduction strategy aimed at preventing overdose deaths. But plans to establish one in Philadelphia have proved controversial. The nonprofit, Safehouse, attempted to quietly open a site in South Philadelphia in early 2020, but the plans were tabled amid steep opposition.

Of nine Democratic mayoral candidates who will appear on the primary ballot, five are top contenders based on fundraising, institutional support, and limited polling. Three  businessman Jeff Brown and former City Councilmembers Allan Domb and Cherelle Parker  have said they oppose supervised-injection sites.

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Former City Councilmember Helen Gym has in the past supported establishing one in Philadelphia. Ex-City Controller Rebecca Rhynhart said she has not ruled them out.

Republican David Oh, who is running in the primary unopposed, has said he is against the sites.

Heres what the top Democratic mayoral candidates have said recently about the issue:

Jeff Brown

Brown has said he is opposed to establishing a supervised-injection site in Philadelphia. His plan to address the opioid crisis is in part focused on expanding access to drug courts and treatment as a means to divert people with an addiction away from the criminal-justice system.

Brown was recently endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 5  the union that represents Philadelphia police officers  which last week joined with 19 community organizations to ask a federal judge to hear their concerns over such a facility before signing off on a settlement.

Allan Domb

Domb said in a statement that he is against establishing a supervised-injection site in the city, and cited the prevalence of xylazine, a powerful animal tranquilizer, thats contaminated the citys drug supply.

I agree with Governor Shapiro that there is no safe way to inject yourself with this type of poison, he said. (Josh Shapiro made that statement in 2018 when he was the state attorney general.)

Domb says his strategy to address the opioid epidemic, specifically in Kensington, is focused on coordinating an increased police presence and providing services like transitory housing to people with addiction. Last year, he championed legislation calling on the Kenney administration to declare a state of emergency in Kensington. The administration didnt do so, though Kenney issued a disaster declaration in Kensington in 2018.

Helen Gym

Among the top contenders for mayor, Gym appears to be the most open to the strategy. In 2017, she was the first City Council member to publicly support establishing a site in Philadelphia, saying at the time that safe-injection sites are going to be controversial and require us to think and act differently, but they are among the most promising new approaches to come forward while we work to end the opioid crisis.

But during a recent forum, she was critical of how the city rolled out its planned site in South Philadelphia, saying the city made a terrible mistake [by] making an announcement about something most people didnt understand and had never seen before.

Harm reduction is an important part of the spectrum of care, she said. Its not a single answer, and it is not the only thing that will solve any issue.  But right now, every single street corner, in front of schools, in front of homes, is an unsafe injection site.

Cherelle Parker

Parker has been the most vocal opponent of supervised-injection sites on the mayoral campaign trail. She says frequently that she does not support the sites as a strategy to address the opioid crisis, and she often invokes the crack-cocaine epidemic.

Nobody was talking about a safe crack house in our community back in the 80s and the 90s, she said at an event last month.

Asked during a debate Tuesday how she would engage the citys public-health experts to address gun violence and drug use, Parker responded: The first thing I wouldnt do is to employ the use of a safe-injection site.

I refer to that as what I call I know whats best for youse people policymaking, when academicians and others attempt to force a particular strategy on a community, she said.

Rebecca Rhynhart

Rhynhart, who is the among the candidates more aligned with progressive policymaking, said in an interview that shes open to a conversation about a supervised-injection site, but it is not part of her broader strategy to address the opioid epidemic.

Her plan includes a law enforcement-led drug market intervention targeting dealers, a multi-department community-responder program, and improving intake processes at facilities where people seek treatment.

How we are going to get people into help and how we are going to break up the open-air drug market, to me, are the bigger issues, Rhynhart said. I dont think safe-injection sites are the answer, but I havent 100% ruled them out either.
Bin also said that the group will make efforts to benefit from keeping both the Busan and Kyongnam Bank separate. He said that the focus should instead be on improving the overall efficiency of the system, a gap that could be filled by insurance.
I think with the new federal governments Northern Australia fund [cyclone reinsurance pool] that is focusing on those residential, small commercial strata asset classes, I think they will pick up the majority of the large weather event claims going forward, he said. I think the underwriters that have continued to participate in that market that are not picking up those losses will delineate between the more quality risks in those regions and possibly a more competitive market will emerge.
Turner has held various senior leadership roles across WTP over the years, most recently as director of global provider networks (3.5 years). She has been instrumental in creating and implementing the WTW GlobalCare Network of over 85,000 providers and has led the company's transition to a global operating model to align its operations across Australia, North America, and the UK.
With more than 400 aircraft, worth almost $10 billion, stuck in Russia, AerCap said it was out of pocket to a 'colossal' degree and has lodged a lawsuit that hinges on whether the alleged loss of the aircraft has triggered war-risk insurance policies https://t.co/yKmyUe033L pic.twitter.com/BUlNPSfwrn
Mike has been instrumental to our success and is a strong advocate for our inclusive culture, he said. I look forward to working closely with him in his new role as we deepen our North America presence and advance our position as a global, diversified, world-class insurer.
Doddington has nearly two decades of industry experience. She joins WTW from Aviva Canada, where she served as senior vice president and managing director, leading the transformation and growth of the companys Digital Direct business. Doddington began her career at EMB (now part of WTW) in the UK. She has also held roles at Desjardins General Insurance Group and RSA UK and Canada.
New You can now listen to Insurance Journal articles!

SANDWICH ACADEMY GRANT TOWNSHIP, Maine (AP)  Railway owner Canadian Pacific Kansas City is leading cleanup and track repairs following a freight train derailment and fire in Maine that sent three railway workers to the hospital for treatment, officials said Sunday.

The three workers were treated and released Saturday after three locomotive engines and six train cars carrying lumber and electrical wiring went off the track in Somerset County, officials said.

The locomotives and four derailed lumber cars caught fire. Two derailed cars carrying the flammable liquids ethanol and pentamethylheptane, both classified as hazardous materials, escaped the fire and no chemicals spilled, said C. Doniele Carlson, spokesperson for Canadian Pacific Kansas City.

Canadian Pacific Kansas City, created by a merger of Canadian Pacific and Kansas City Southern that was completed Friday, is leading cleanup, salvage and repair, working with state agencies and local fire and rescue, said Jim Britt from the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry. Workers were removing derailed locomotives and rail cars, cleaning up crash debris and repairing the rail line. It was unclear how long the process would take.

Derailments and railroad safety have been a growing concern nationwide since the fiery Feb. 3 Norfolk Southern derailment outside East Palestine, Ohio, that forced evacuations and created lingering health concerns because of the chemicals released.

Maine officials said Sunday there was no public threat and no evacuations.

The railway and the state blamed the derailment on a washout. But the Federal Railroad Administration, which sent an inspector to the site, suggested it will be weeks before full details of the accident are released.

People were urged to stay away as work continued. The derailment happened near Rockwood, a town of about 300 people on Moosehead Lake, about 90 miles (140 kilometers) northwest of Bangor.

Photo: This photo provided by the Maine Forest Service shows several locomotives and rail cars burning after a freight train derailed, Saturday, April 15, 2023, in Sandwich Academy Grant Township, near Rockwood, Maine. Three workers were treated and released from a hospital, and Canadian Pacific Railway will be leading the cleanup and track repair, according to officials. (Maine Forest Service via AP)

Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Trucking Maine
Kojima Industries Corp. is a small company and little-known outside Japan, where it produces cup holders, USB sockets and door pockets for car interiors. But its modest role in the automotive supply chain is a critical one. And when the company was hacked in February 2022, it brought Toyota Motor Corp.s entire production line to a screeching stop.

The worlds top-selling carmaker had to halt 14 factories at a cost of about $375 million, based on a rough calculation of its sales and output data. Even after the initial crisis was over, it took months for Kojima to get operations close to their old routines.

The company is just one name on Japans long list of recent cyber victims. Ransomware attacks alone soared 58% last year compared to a year earlier, according to the National Police Agency, and hacking incidents have exposed shortcomings ranging from slow incident response times to a lack of transparency. In a nation that exported chip components worth $42.3 billion last year  dominating the supply of some materials  supply chain issues can have global implications.

Fewer Companies Are Paying Ransoms to Hackers, Researchers Say

Comparative data on cyberattacks can be hard to find. But Mihoko Matsubara, the chief cybersecurity strategist at Japanese telecommunications company NTT Corp., says the nation has had a particularly tough time.

Along with the increasing number of ransomware attacks, Japan was hit by Emotet attacks more than any other country in the first quarter of last year, she said, referring to a type of malware often spread through phishing emails. Japan had a difficult year to deal with more cyberattacks on industry, government and the health care sector.

But while Japan has its own particular problems with hackers, many of its vulnerabilities are shared by the US and other technologically strong nations. From the Colonial Pipeline attack in the US to the Australian telecoms hack that exposed 10 million users personal data, wealthy countries have been repeatedly caught underestimating the harsh realities of cybercrime.

Meanwhile attacks on vital services such as Japans hospitals  which delayed surgeries and other treatments  have served as a reminder that money is not all thats at stake.

The ransomware attacks were a wake-up call to the Japanese, Matsubara said. Because now human lives are at risk.

The Kojima attack on Feb. 26, 2022 was whats known as a supply chain hack: Hackers penetrated the systems of a third-party business partner and used them to access Kojimas file servers. By 9 p.m., theyd encrypted data on some servers and computer terminals, according to a Kojima spokesperson.

The breach was detected at about 11 p.m. The hackers had sent a ransom demand but Kojimas engineers never responded to any kind of communication with the hackers, the spokesperson said.

Before dawn, Kojima shut down the systems it uses to communicate with external suppliers and the following day, Toyota announced it would suspend operations at all of its domestic plants. The breach meant subsidiaries including Daihatsu Motor Co. and Hino Motors Ltd. also had to halt production.

Attacks in Japan are on the rise, and more firms are becoming aware of the risks, said Shinpei Izumo, an underwriter at Sompo Japan Insurance Inc. He estimates cyber insurance sales are up 20% to 30% from the previous year.

Smaller firms have few protections, he added. They dont know what to do in the event of an emergency or incident, and they arent taking measures to prevent the damage from spreading.

High-End Powerhouse

Supply-chain hacks have huge potential to disrupt the economy. While much manufacturing and assembly happens in lower-cost markets, Japan is a powerhouse in producing a select group of high-end goods. Products like phones, computers and electric toothbrushes often contain Japanese parts.

The country produces about 80% of fine chemicals for electronics and dominates the global supply of photoresist, a light-sensitive material thats used in making semiconductor chips, according to Ulrike Schaede, professor of Japanese Business at the School of Global Policy and Strategy at the University of California, San Diego. Having those industries be vulnerable to cyberattacks would have an untold impact.

Not a day goes by where you dont use an item that wouldnt exist if it werent for the Japanese part in it, Schaede said.

Japanese companies are an important part of the global supply chain, she added. The more upstream you go, the more Japan is in there.

Last year, manufacturers Fujimi, Denso, Nichirin and TB Kawashima all experienced cyberattacks on overseas subsidiaries that hold Japanese intellectual property. Japanese clothing manufacturers, furniture makers, credit card companies, libraries and a social media services operator were also among hackers targets. And in September, pro-Russian hacker group Killnet downed 20 Japanese government websites in a distributed denial of service, or DDoS, attack.

In response, the Japanese government said it would introduce new laws to engage in offensive cyber operations to begin monitoring potential attackers and hack their systems as soon as signs of a potential risk are established.

Its a marked escalation in the governments approach to cybersecurity, which previously adhered to the spirit of Japans constitutional commitment to pacifism following the end of World War II. The changes are being reflected in the new cyber command thats being stood up within Japans defense force.

Western allies have been waiting for the country to acknowledge it has to do more, says David Suzuki, managing director for Japan at security firm Blackpanda.

I think theres finally been a realization in Japan that cyber security, its not an IT issue. Its a security issue, right? he said. Because its not a machine thats hacking you. Its a bad guy, using machines.

Recovery Costs

For all of its advanced technological knowledge, Japan is also a place where traditional ways of doing business are deeply entrenched. When ransomware attacks occur, companies are often able to keep operations running using paper inventories and offline backup systems  reliable and unhackable, but also slow and cumbersome. And as companies slowly restore their systems, breaches are not always reported, according to industry officials and cyber experts.

Historically, Japanese companies avoided paying ransoms by relying on punishingly slow data-recovery firms to piece together corrupted networks, says Tatsuhiro Tanaka, a retired major general who is now a research principal at Fujitsu System Integration Laboratories Ltd. But the rising frequency of attacks means the recovery cost is increasing too.

There are very few companies that employ a kind of incident commander, the person who deals with the cyber attack and business continuity, Tanaka said. We have to change the mindset.

Theres also resistance within some Japanese companies to disclosing attacks and upgrading systems, which stems from societal norms around assigning blame, according to Scott Jarkoff, who heads the strategic threat advisory group for cyber firm CrowdStrike and has lived in Japan for more than three decades.

That culture hinders the nations ability to build a local population of security experts, said Hiroshi Sasaki, an associate professor of manufacturing and innovation at the Nagoya Institute of Technology in Japan.

They need to be both accountable and responsible when a cybersecurity incident happens. Other countries that pay attention to their critical infrastructure will learn the importance of the supply chain from Japans situation, he said.

But while Japan might be an extreme example of such vulnerabilities, it is far from the only country at risk.

In the US, cybersecurity regulation has been patchy, and the government has long relied on businesses to voluntarily adhere to cybersecurity guidelines. But in releasing its national cyber strategy in March, the Biden administration endorsed tougher measures, pushing federal agencies to use existing authorities to set minimum cybersecurity requirements in critical sectors.

In Australia, businesses that failed to mitigate easily preventable security breaches faced minimal financial penalties until last year, when the government introduced fines of up to A$50 million ($33.5 million) or 30% of a companys adjusted turnover in the relevant period. Meanwhile the European Union noted in a recent report that much of its software originates in the US, and that its own cybersecurity industry needed to grow to address vulnerabilities. Cyberattacks in the region grew 26% in 2022 compared to a year earlier, according to Check Point Software Technologies Ltd.

The government agency in charge of overseeing Japans network security says the countrys disclosure rules arent that different from those of other advanced nations.

No country makes it mandatory for companies to publicly disclose accounts of their cybersecurity attacks, said an official from the National Center of Incident Readiness and Strategy for Cybersecurity, who asked not to be named. This is because they include information that could impact their business operations.

Instead Japan asks companies that provide critical infrastructure such as telecommunications, power, gas and railways to voluntarily report any cybersecurity incidents. Over a thousand companies fall under this category and a total of 407 reports were made in 2021.

Even though its not an obligation, the reports are done properly and necessary information is shared, the NISC official said. One unique thing about Japanese culture is that once people are committed, they comply with whats asked of them regardless of whether its voluntary.

Japan has some cyber victories to celebrate. NTT cybersecurity strategist Matsubara points out that the country fought off tens of thousands of cyberattacks targeting the Tokyo 2020 Olympics without fanfare. Japan has also been included in NATOs annual cyber exercises for the past two years, she said, even though its not a NATO member.

Even Japanese people I talk to didnt know that, she said. But this year everyone is more interested in cybersecurity because theyre worried about financially motivated or geopolitical cyberattacks.

Japan is far from the only country that is reluctant to admit its cybersecurity failings. But the relentless attacks its manufacturing industry has suffered in recent months serve as a cautionary tale for other wealthy nations with supply chains to protect. Japanese executives are still hesitant compared to those in other countries, according to Kouji Morii, the head of security at Segue Group Co., an information services firm.

Theres a tendency that Japanese employers dont think cyberattacks have anything to do with them unless theyre attacked. We have to change the thinking.

With assistance from Reed Stevenson.

Top photograph: The closing ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. Photo credit: Noriko Hayashi/Bloomberg

Copyright 2023 Bloomberg.

Topics Cyber
Pro MGA Global Solutions, the independent managing general agent (MGA) incubator, announced its incubation partnership with specialty MGA Nirvana.

Nirvana is led by CEO Kabir Chanrai and Executive Chairman Rob Jones, along with Thomas Mannsdorfer, head of Europe, and Glenn Crickmar, sector underwriter. The business was established in 2017 as part of Castel Underwriting Agencies, and the incubation partnership with Pro MGA Global Solutions follows Nirvanas management-led buyout (MBO) from Castel in March 2023.

London-headquartered Pro MGA Global Solutions, which is a division of global re/insurance adviser Pro Global Holdings Ltd., will provide regulatory, operational and technical support to help the team at Nirvana continue their successful growth.

MGAs: An All-Weather Distribution Channel for Soft and Hard Markets

Nirvanas insurance portfolio encompasses media liability; film and television liability; technology liability; and cyber liability, provided for all sizes of business from SMEs to larger corporates. Nirvana has ambitious plans to grow into a diversified service- and underwriting-first MGA through hires and acquisitions of existing MGAs.

Nirvanas goal is to deliver insurance solutions that span the full risk spectrum, and as we move onto the next phase of our growth, we are focused on expanding the innovative global package of media and technology liability products we have developed through both organic and inorganic channels, commented Chanrai.

This is a very exciting time to be launching Nirvana independently, and Im looking forward to driving ahead with our underwriting first and service first mindset. With Pro MGA Global Solutions expert support, we can stay focused on pursuing our long-term growth strategy and delivering valuable solutions to our clients, Chanrai said.

Its a pleasure to work with the entrepreneurial Nirvana team who have so successfully built out the business focusing on innovative and profitable cyber, media and technology liability products, according to Danny Maleary, CEO of Pro MGA Global Solutions.

Here at Pro MGA Global Solutions, we have extensive experience of the Lloyds and London company markets across a wide range of disciplines in brokers, service providers and insurers, as well as highly relevant experience in the MGA arena across the companies market and international platforms, Maleary said.

Im looking forward to bringing the full strength of our network to bear to support the strong growth that is on the horizon for Nirvana in a sustainable way by providing a platform with full regulatory oversight and operational support. This will empower the high caliber Nirvana team to focus on what they do best: developing innovative products that help solve real world challenges for their clients.

About Nirvana Risk Partners and Pro MGA Global Solutions

Based in the London insurance market, Nirvana specializes in media and tech insurance in London and internationally. Nirvana Risk Partners was founded by Rob Jones in 2017 as a trading division within the Castel Underwriting Agencies platform. Nirvanas underwriting capacity is provided by A+-rated Lloyds syndicates and insurance company capacity.

Pro MGA Global Solutions offers both entrepreneurial support  including set up, guidance and regulatory oversight that enables MGAs to flourish  together with operational support such as underwriting oversight expertise and regulatory platforms that enable MGAs to trade.

Source: Pro MGA Global Solutions

Topics Insurance Wholesale
Everest Names Mulray President of North America Insurance

Everest Re Group Ltd., the Bermuda-based property/casualty, and specialty re/insurer, announced the appointment of Mike Mulray as executive vice president and president of North America Insurance, effective immediately.

Mulray most recently served as global chief operating officer for Everest Insurance, and in his new role, will lead all aspects of North America, the Insurance divisions largest portfolio. He reports to Mike Karmilowicz, president and CEO of Everest Insurance.

Mulray has more than 25 years of insurance leadership experience. Since joining Everest in 2015 as chief underwriting officer, he has played a critical role in shaping, scaling, and transforming Everests Insurance strategy. He also led several of the Insurance divisions key functional areas, including Actuarial Pricing & Modeling, Business Performance Management & Analytics, Corporate Underwriting, Risk & Ceded Reinsurance, Operations, and eIQ, Everests innovation team. Mulray is a member of the Everest Executive Leadership Committee.

Mike has served in various leadership roles at Everest, has been instrumental to our success, and is a strong advocate for our inclusive culture. I look forward to working closely with him in his new role, as we deepen our North America presence and advance our position as a global, diversified, world-class insurer, commented Karmilowicz.

***

Swiss Re Names Aons Quiroga Arias as Head Risk Consulting & Analytics

Swiss Re announced the appointment of Paloma Quiroga Arias as head Risk Consulting & Analytics, reporting to Russell Higginbotham, CEO Reinsurance Solutions. The appointment is effective April 17, 2023.

Quiroga Arias will lead a team with proven risk expertise and deep global data and insight. She joins Swiss Re from Aon Reinsurance Solutions, where she was the global head of Articulating Value, part of the Reinsurance Global Growth Leadership Team. Prior to this, she held a variety of roles at Aon Inpoint. She worked at Aon for nearly 10 years.

Quiroga Arias obtained a doctorate in Theoretical Physics, from the University of Santiago de Compostela, Spain, and CERN.

Were very excited to have Paloma on board. She will play a crucial role in leading our risk consulting & analytics business forward  working closely with our clients to develop the right solution for their needs, commented Russell Higginbotham, CEO Reinsurance Solutions.

Topics Aon Swiss Re
RICHMOND, Ind. (AP)  Authorities in eastern Indiana lifted a dayslong evacuation order late Sunday afternoon for an area near a plastics fire after they said it was determined air quality and other environmental concerns related to the fire were deemed safe.

Wayne County Emergency Management lifted the order for people within a half-mile (1 kilometer) radius of the fire scene after consulting with state, federal and local health officials, Matthew Cain, agency director, said at a news conference.

Testing of air debris would continue, he and Mayor Dave Snow said. At least 1, 500 people live in the evacuation zone, though it is not known how many residents actually obeyed the call to evacuate after the fire began Tuesday afternoon.

I feel very confident that people will be safe when they move back to their homes, said Dr. David Jetmore, the Wayne County Health Departments health officer.

Richmond Fire Chief Tim Brown said crews will remain at the 14-acre (5-hectare) former factory site to extinguish flareups. It was declared under control Thursday night when the last flames were extinguished.

He previously said fire officials will meet Monday morning to decide what their next steps will be at the site, where tons of recycled plastic stored for resale caught fire. The site is in Richmond, about 70 miles (115 kilometers) east of Indianapolis, near the Ohio border.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has said hydrogen cyanide and benzene were detected at the fire site. EPA contractors collected fire debris over the weekend that landed near schools or in parks and private yards. At least one sample has tested positive for asbestos, which can harm lungs.

The fires cause was not known. But it quickly became an inferno, destroying six run-down buildings holding recycled plastic and creating clouds of smoke so high and dark they cast a sprawling shadow over the city of 35,000 people.

The man operating the storage site was under a 2020 court order to clean up the site, which had no utilities and had been declared a serious fire hazard by inspectors. Richmond officials said they had barred him from accepting more plastics while he was working to get rid of the vast holdings.

Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Indiana
New You can now listen to Insurance Journal articles!

WTW Names Doddington North America Proposition Leader

WTW has appointed Laura Doddington as North America proposition leader  pricing, product, claims and underwriting personal lines for insurance consulting and technology. Doddington is based in Toronto, Canada.

Doddington joins London, England-based WTW from Aviva Canada with nearly two decades in the insurance industry across North America and the U.K. Doddington most recently served as senior vice president and managing director at Aviva Canadas digital direct business. Doddington began her career at EMB (now part of WTW) in the U.K. and has also served roles at Desjardins General Insurance Group and RSA U.K. and Canada.

HUB International Hires Meek as SVP and CMO and Sontag as SVP CCO

HUB International (HUB) has named John Meek senior vice president and chief marketing officer and Matthew Sontag as senior vice president and chief claims officer for HUB Private Client.

Meek has 30 years of property and casualty insurance leadership and experience and 18 years in the private client marketplace. Most recently, He worked at Chubb Personal Risk Services as senior vice president of distribution and before that held broker distribution leadership roles at ACE and Firemans Fund.

Sontag has nearly 20 years of experience in the private client industry, he most recently served as the vice president of property claims for PURE. He also held various leadership positions at AIG Private Client Group and ACE Private Risk Services (now Chubb).

Topics Leadership Willis Towers Watson
CHICO, Texas (AP)  A train collision and subsequent derailment injured two rail employees in Texas, according to a company official.

A Union Pacific freight train collided with an unoccupied train that was parked on a siding around 7 p.m. Sunday in Chico, Texas, Union Pacific spokesperson Kristen South said in an email to The Associated Press.

A locomotive engineer and conductor were being treated for injuries after the southbound train derailed following the accident. No one else was on board the freight train, South said.

One was transported to a hospital by helicopter and the other was transported by ambulance to Wise Health System in Decatur, Texas, the Wise County Emergency Operations Center said in a statement.

Three locomotives and about 15 grain cars derailed, but the train was not carrying any hazardous materials, South said.

The accident comes amid heightened attention to rail safety nationwide following a fiery derailment in February in Ohio and a string of derailments since then that have been grabbing headlines. The U.S. averages about three train derailments per day, according to federal data, but relatively few create disasters.

In Texas, asked about the speed of the train when Sundays collision occurred, South said Union Pacific was investigating the cause of the accident and no other information was available at the time.

The Wise County Office of Emergency Management, Wise County Sheriffs Office, Texas Department of Public Safety and fire departments from Chico, Bridgeport, Lake Bridgeport and Sand Flat, Texas, responded to the crash scene.

Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Texas Trucking
New You can now listen to Insurance Journal articles!

Emergency crews extinguished a fire at a Georgia chemical plant shortly after 10 p.m. Saturday, allowing officials to lift a shelter-in-place order issued in the afternoon when the fire broke out for the second time in the day.

The fire at the Pinova plant in Brunswick, Georgia, began Saturday morning and had been extinguished, but the Glynn County Board of Commissioners said the fire rekindled around 3 p.m.

A shelter-in-place order was issued for a half-mile (0.8 kilometers) from the plant at 3:25 p.m. and about an hour later was expanded to a 1-mile (1.6- kilometer) radius because of shifting winds, the board said in updates posed on Facebook.

Thick plumes of black smoke rose into the air before the fire was extinguished at the Pinova facility, which makes rosin and polyterpene resin.

Brunswick Mayor Cosby Johnson declared a state of emergency and a shelter-in- place order for the whole city of Brunswick at 6 p.m. Saturday, he said.

Because we did not know the extent to which we could contain this fire and we could not foresee where the wind would be moving, we thought it would be best for us to talk to our entire city and not just one singular piece of it, Johnson said during a news conference.

A voluntary evacuation was recommend for those within a half-mile of the Pinova site and the city established a shelter for those affected, Johnson said.

The board of commissioners issued an update at 10:08 p.m. announcing the fire was out and the shelter-in-place and evacuation orders had been lifted.

Brunswick Fire Department Assistant Chief Laurence Cargile said the origin of the fire was not immediately known, but firefighters had used foam to contain and control the blaze.

No injuries were reported.

Emergency crews from several departments including Jacksonville, Florida, about 70 miles (112 kilometers) south of Brunswick, responded to assist with the emergency, officials said.

Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Georgia Chemicals
Source: Amr Ezzat

April 18, 2023 (Investorideas.com Newswire) The firm established a beneficial, securitization program, an event worthy of a 14% target price raise, noted Echelon Capital Markets in a research note.

Blackline Safety Corp. (BLN:TSX.V; BLKLF:OTC) completed a CA$50 million-plus (CA$50M-plus) lease receivables securitization program with CWB Maxium Financial, and consequently garnered a target price increase from Echelon Capital Markets, reported one of the financial firm's analysts, Amr Ezzat, in an April 12 special situations report.

"The new purchase facility is expected to provide the company with enhanced financial flexibility and improved liquidity as management continues to execute its strategic plan and goal of sustained positive adjusted EBITDA exiting full-year 2023," Ezzat wrote.

Echelon raised its target price to CA$4 per share from CA$3.50, and the new figure compares to Blackline's current share price of about CA$2.42, noted Ezzat. From here, the projected potential return for investors is about 65%.

"We have increased confidence in [Blackline's] ability to fund itself and transition into a positive cash flow generator as it continues to improve its financial strength and liquidity in a nondilutive manner," wrote Ezzat.

Though the news warranted a share price increase, the market has not reacted much to it, noted Ezzat. As such, now is an opportune time to invest in Blackline. Echelon recommends it as a Speculative Buy.

Lease Program Popular

Blackline designs, develops and manufactures employee safety monitoring technology with a hardware-enabled software-as-a-service business model. Customers may purchase, lease, or for short-term projects, rent equipment.

Blackline's leasing program is popular with its customers, evidenced in its growth over the past three years, and, Ezzat pointed out, it "provides strong client retention."

The company currently has 270 lease contracts totaling CA$35.4M in gross receivables, with customers including ExxonMobil, Shell, ConocoPhillips, Keyera, Cenovus, and Pembina. Of the total, CA$12M worth consists of the total undiscounted net book value of the leased hardware.

The downside to Blackline's lease program, Ezzat pointed out, is it adversely impacts the timing of the cash flow from it.

He explained that typically "it takes one and a half to two years for a lease contract to catch up to a purchase agreement with service in terms of cash flows."

About the Arrangement

With this newly established partnership, CWB Maxium will purchase receivables generated through Blackline's leasing program. Blackline has 30 days after signing a new customer contract to decide whether to the related lease receivables to CWB.

The program "replaces Blackline's requirement to fully finance its customer lease obligations, with a new purchase facility based on lease purchases of up to CA$15M and US$35M for its safety wearables and area gas monitoring equipment," explained Ezzat.

The program is for one year, at which time CWB Maxium has the option of renewing it.

Benefits to Blackline

The securitization program should boost Blackline's free cash flow by about CA$18M in the remainder of 2023 and CA$15M next year, Echelon estimates.

Along with Blackline's strong cash balance of CA$23.5M at the end of Q1/23, the facility from CWB Maxium will afford the tech company greater financial flexibility and "immediate, nondilutive liquidity while lowering its overall cost of capital," wrote Ezzat.

This, in turn, will allow Blackline to promote leasing as an option more intensely to customers.

Disclosures:

1) Doresa Banning wrote this article for Streetwise Reports LLC and provides services to Streetwise Reports as an independent contractor. She or members of her household own securities of the following companies mentioned in the article: None. She or members of her household are paid by the following companies mentioned in this article: None.

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3) Comments and opinions expressed are those of the specific experts and not of Streetwise Reports or its officers. The information provided above is for informational purposes only and is not a recommendation to buy or sell any security.

4) The article does not constitute investment advice. Each reader is encouraged to consult with his or her individual financial professional and any action a reader takes as a result of information presented here is his or her own responsibility. By opening this page, each reader accepts and agrees to Streetwise Reports' terms of use and full legal disclaimer. This article is not a solicitation for investment. Streetwise Reports does not render general or specific investment advice and the information on Streetwise Reports should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any security. Streetwise Reports does not endorse or recommend the business, products, services or securities of any company mentioned on Streetwise Reports.

5) From time to time, Streetwise Reports LLC and its directors, officers, employees or members of their families, as well as persons interviewed for articles and interviews on the site, may have a long or short position in securities mentioned. Directors, officers, employees or members of their immediate families are prohibited from making purchases and/or sales of those securities in the open market or otherwise from the time of the decision to publish an article until three business days after the publication of the article. The foregoing prohibition does not apply to articles that in substance only restate previously published company releases.

Disclosures For Echelon Capital Markets, Blackline Safety Corp., April 12, 2023

Echelon Wealth Partners Inc. is a member of IIROC and CIPF. The documents on this website have been prepared for the viewer only as an example of strategy consistent with our recommendations; it is not an offer to buy or sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell any security or instrument or to participate in any particular investing strategy. Any opinions or recommendations expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of Echelon Wealth Partners Inc. Echelon Wealth Partners Inc. cannot accept any trading instructions via e-mail as the timely receipt of e-mail messages, or their integrity over the Internet, cannot be guaranteed. Dividend yields change as stock prices change, and companies may change or cancel dividend payments in the future. All securities involve varying amounts of risk, and their values will fluctuate, and the fluctuation of foreign currency exchange rates will also impact your investment returns if measured in Canadian Dollars. Past performance does not guarantee future returns, investments may increase or decrease in value and you may lose money. Data from various sources were used in the preparation of these documents; the information is believed but in no way warranted to be reliable, accurate and appropriate.

Echelon Wealth Partners Inc. employees may buy and sell shares of the companies that are recommended for their own accounts and for the accounts of other clients. Echelon Wealth Partners compensates its Research Analysts from a variety of sources. The Research Department is a cost centre and is funded by the business activities of Echelon Wealth Partners including, Institutional Equity Sales and Trading, Retail Sales and Corporate and Investment Banking.

Research Dissemination Policy: All final research reports are disseminated to existing and potential clients of Echelon Wealth Partners Inc. simultaneously in electronic form. Hard copies will be disseminated to any client that has requested to be on the distribution list of Echelon Wealth Partners Inc. Clients may also receive Echelon Wealth Partners Inc. research via third party vendors. To receive Echelon Wealth Partners Inc. research reports, please contact your Registered Representative. Reproduction of any research report in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.

Canadian Disclosures: To make further inquiry related to this report, Canadian residents should contact their Echelon Wealth Partners professional representative. To effect any transaction, Canadian residents should contact their Echelon Wealth Partners Investment advisor.

U.S. Disclosures: This research report was prepared by Echelon Wealth Partners Inc., a member of the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada and the Canadian Investor Protection Fund. This report does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities discussed herein. Echelon Wealth Partners Inc. is not registered as a broker-dealer in the United States and is not be subject to U.S. rules regarding the preparation of research reports and the independence of research analysts. Any resulting transactions should be effected through a U.S. broker-dealer.

ANALYST CERTIFICATION

Company: Blackline Safety Corp. | BLN:TSX

I, Amr Ezzat, hereby certify that the views expressed in this report accurately reflect my personal views about the subject securities or issuers. I also certify that I have not, am not, and will not receive, directly orindirectly, compensation in exchange for expressing the specific recommendations or views in this report.

Important Disclosures:

During the last 12 months, Echelon Wealth Partners Inc. provided financial advice to and/or, either on its own or as a syndicate member, participated in a public offering, or private placement of securities of this issuer.

During the last 12 months, Echelon Wealth Partners Inc. received compensation for having provided investment banking or related services to this Issuer.

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Source: Streetwise Reports

April 18, 2023 (Investorideas.com Newswire) Metallic Minerals Corp. announces the final results from its 2022 drilling campaign at its flagship 100%-owned Keno Silver project in the Yukon Territory.

Metallic Minerals Corp. (MMG:TSX.V; MMNGF:OTCQB) has announced the final results from its 2022 drilling campaign at its flagship 100%-owned Keno Silver project in the Yukon Territory.

A total of 642 meters were drilled in six holes at the Caribou target to test extensions of known high-grade and bulk-tonnage mineralization as the company works toward a National Instrument 43-101 resource estimate for the project this year.

Hole CH22-01 intersected two higher-grade vein intervals within a broad zone of bulk tonnage mineralization, including 348 grams per tonne silver equivalent (g/t Ag eq) over 0.5 meters, and 1,201 g/t Ag eq over 0.5 meters bounding a zone of 34.2 meters grading 38 g/t Ag eq.

In a March 21 research note, Couloir Capital wrote that it expected the results to be "instrumental in advancing Keno Silver to its maiden resource milestone."

"We expect MMG to focus near-term initiatives on filling in the gaps and advancing them toward a first resource estimate," the note said. "Thus far, MMG has been successful in drilling discovery holes that point to both bulk-tonnage and high- grade mineralization at Keno Silver, which we see as a positive indicator of a potentially robust resource at the property."

Couloir maintained its Buy rating on the stock and with a fair value per share estimate of CA$0.75.

Metallic Minerals President Scott Petsel said Caribou "shows excellent potential for resources of significant scale."

"We are continuing to demonstrate the extensive exploration potential of the district," he said.

Metallic Minerals has retained SGS Geological Services to complete the estimate. The company said modelling work is already underway.

The Catalyst: A Historic Silver District

The Keno Silver project is in the historic Keno Hill Silver District of the Yukon, which has produced more than 200 million ounces (Moz) Ag at an average grade exceeding, 1,300 g/t, the company said.

The district also hosts Hecla Mining Co.'s (HL:NYSE) Keno Hill mines, which features an estimate life-of-mine production grade of 804 g/t.

Metallic Minerals said its project covers mainly the eastern portion of the district and was host to eight historical silver mines, five of which had average production grades about 5,000 g/t.

"Metallic Minerals' work to date in this area shows the presence of a major structural corridor that is comparable in surface expression and structural setting to the +150 (Moz) Bermingham-Calumet system in the extensively explored western part of the district," the company said in its release on the Keno results.

The company said it completed 3,265 meters of diamond drilling over 23 holes at Keno Silver in 2022. It also completed LiDAR data collection geophysics scans.

The southernmost target hole, CH22-05, at Caribou returned 1,310 g/t Ag eq over 0.5 meters at 44 meters depth.

The company said in total at Keno Silver in 2022, there were 138 significant intervals of greater than 100 g/t Ag eq and 22 intervals over 500 g/t Ag eq over 23 holes. A "robust" drilling program meant to expand the resource and test new targets is planned for this year.

Maintaining Momentum

The company completed an NI 43-101 resource last year for its La Plata copper-silver-gold-platinum group project in Colorado.

It found 889 million pounds Cu and 14.975 Moz Ag at an average grade of 0.39% Cu Eq, 0.35% Cu, and 4.02 4.02 g/t Ag, using a 0.25% Cu Eq cutoff grade.

Two holes totaling 1,730 meters hit 816 meters of 0.41% recovered copper equivalent (Cu eq), which the company said was "one of the top intersections for any North American project for the past several years."

Metallic Minerals said it is working on modeling work for an updated resource estimate for La Plata, as well, anticipated by mid-2023.

The company has also signed a production royalty agreement with Little Flake Mining, a company owned and operated by Parker Schnabel of the Discovery Channel's "Gold Rush" program, on 5 miles of alluvial gold claims at Australia Creek in the Klondike Gold District of the Yukon.

Schnabel was granted exclusive rights to extract gold from the property while giving Metallic Minerals a percentage of the production as a royalty.

"With a positive 2022 exploration program and a celebrity royalty deal, we believe MMG will look to build on recent strength and maintain momentum going into the rest of 2023," Couloir wrote.

Ownership and Share Structure

About 19% of Metallic Minerals is owned by management and insiders, including Chief Executive Officer Greg Johnson with 4.67% or 7.05 million shares, Independent Director Gregor Hamilton with 0.91% or 1.37 million shares, and the president, Petsel, with 0.56% or 850,000 shares.

About 30% is owned by strategic investors, including mining financier Eric Sprott, who owns 14%.

About 29% is owned institutionally. The rest, 20%, is retail.

Its market cap is CA$39.91 million, with 150.9 million shares outstanding, 120 million of them free-floating. It trades in a 52-week range of CA$0.49 and CA$0.195.

Disclosures:

1) Steve Sobek wrote this article for Streetwise Reports LLC. He or members of his household own securities of the following companies mentioned in the article: None. He or members of his household are paid by the following companies mentioned in this article: None.

2) The following companies mentioned in this article are billboard sponsors of Streetwise Reports: Metallic Minerals Corp. Click here for important disclosures about sponsor fees. The information provided above is for informational purposes only and is not a recommendation to buy or sell any security.

3) The article does not constitute investment advice. Each reader is encouraged to consult with his or her individual financial professional and any action a reader takes as a result of information presented here is his or her own responsibility. By opening this page, each reader accepts and agrees to Streetwise Reports' terms of use and full legal disclaimer. This article is not a solicitation for investment. Streetwise Reports does not render general or specific investment advice and the information on Streetwise Reports should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any security. Streetwise Reports does not endorse or recommend the business, products, services or securities of any company mentioned on Streetwise Reports.

4) From time to time, Streetwise Reports LLC and its directors, officers, employees or members of their families, as well as persons interviewed for articles and interviews on the site, may have a long or short position in securities mentioned. Directors, officers, employees or members of their immediate families are prohibited from making purchases and/or sales of those securities in the open market or otherwise from the time of the decision to publish an article until three business days after the publication of the article. The foregoing prohibition does not apply to articles that in substance only restate previously published company releases.

Disclosures for Couloir Capital, March 21, 2023:

This report has been prepared by an analyst on contract with or employed by Couloir Capital Ltd. The analyst certifies that the views expressed in this report which include the rating assigned to the issuer's shares as well as the analytical substance and tone of the report accurately reflect his or her personal views about the subject securities and the issuer. No part of his / her compensation was, is, or will be directly or indirectly related to the specific recommendations.

Couloir Capital Ltd. is affiliated with Couloir Securities Ltd., an Exempt Market Dealer. They shall be referred to interchangeably as Couloir Capital herein. Part of Couloir Capital's business is to connect mining companies with suitable investors that qualify under available regulatory exemptions. Couloir Capital, its affiliates, and their respective officers, directors, representatives, researchers, and members of their families may hold positions in the companies mentioned in this document and may buy and/or sell their securities. Additionally, Couloir Capital may have provided in the past and may provide in the future, certain advisory or corporate finance services and receive financial and other incentives from issuers as consideration for the provision of such services.

Couloir Capital has prepared this document for general information purposes only. This document should not be considered a solicitation to purchase or sell securities or a recommendation to buy or sell securities. The information provided has been derived from sources believed to be accurate but cannot be guaranteed. This document does not consider the particular investment objectives, financial situations, or needs of individual recipients and other issues (e.g. prohibitions to investments due to law, jurisdiction issues, etc.) which may exist for certain persons. Recipients should rely on their own investigations and take their own professional advice before investing. Couloir Capital will not treat recipients of this document as clients by virtue of having viewed this document.

Company-specific disclosures:

In the last 24 months, Couloir Capital Ltd. has been retained under a service agreement by the subject issuer. This service agreement includes analyst research coverage. The views of the Analyst are personal. No part of the Analyst's compensation was directly or indirectly related to the specific ratings as used by the research Analyst in the Reports. The Analyst DOES NOT maintain a financial interest in the securities or options of the Company. Couloir Capital DOES NOT maintain a financial interest in the securities or options of the Company. The information contained in the Reports is based upon publicly available information that the Analyst believes to be correct but has not independently verified with respect to truth or correctness.

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What many fear will be the most difficult phase of Brexit is due to start at the end of next October.

A collection of the latest news, views and analysis from the farming desk on the topic of Agribusiness and technology.

That is when the UK has proposed to start its latest of several attempts at full border checks on goods coming in from the EU.

October 31 next is the new target date for pre-notification, export health certificates, and phytosanitary certificates for Irish medium-risk animal products, plant and plant products, moving directly from Ireland into UK ports.

Alongside this, full customs controls will be introduced for goods moving directly from Ireland into the UK.

Later this year, the UK will confirm plans for sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) documentary, physical and identity checks; and safety and security declarations for goods moving directly from Ireland to the UK.

The new border plans are designed to simplify, digitise and improve risk-based targeting of the UKs SPS import controls without reducing biosecurity and consumer protection.

Only Northern Ireland businesses will retain unrestricted access to the market in Great Britain, whether moving goods directly or indirectly through Irish ports.

Meanwhile, the Northern Ireland Protocol allows goods move from Ireland to Northern Ireland without customs declarations, checks, tariffs, quotas, safety, and security requirements.

But with the Irish food industry and farmers still depending on the UK for 19% of the value of Irish food and drink exports, the start of full border checks going into England, Wales, and Scotland poses a significant challenge in the autumn.

In the UK, the Cold Chain Federation has warned that the new post-Brexit border checks on goods will deter many EU suppliers, despite the proposals reducing the need for physical checks for many goods, in order to prevent border delays.

Shane Brennan, chief executive of the Cold Chain Federation, which represents chilled food traders, described the challenge for exporters of animal products in the EU.

He said they must become familiar with complex trade rules, employ vets to certify their goods, find specialist hauliers, employ agents to deal with the UKs food import IT system and customs declarations, and pay a new border inspection charge.

"A significant number of those types of exporters will choose not to do it," warned Mr Brennan. He said imported food will become more expensive in the UK.

New plans

After October 31, every order of medium-risk goods, such as most meat, dairy and fish items, must be accompanied by a physical export health certificate, signed at the point of dispatch by a qualified vet.

The introduction of the new border rules was repeatedly delayed since Britain withdrew from the EU in January 2020. Unacceptable delays at ports and other entry points were feared. Hence the stripped-back procedures in the latest proposals, including a trusted trader scheme to allow regular importers avoid full customs inspections.

Goods are also to be risk-ranked according to their level of risk to human, animal or plant health, in order to minimise inspections. And the introduction of border controls will be staggered to minimise business disruption.

The plans also include checkpoints away from ports to avoid hold-ups of the kind which continue long after Brexit (Easter travellers had three-hour waits before boarding ferries at the Port of Dover).

It is hoped that digital systems will streamline the customs and regulatory process. However, testing of animal and plant products to protect against diseases cannot be rushed.

In the UK, the National Farmers Union welcomed the proposals. For the past three years, our farmers have faced the full gamut of EU controls on our exports while the EU has enjoyed continued easy access to the UK marketplace, said the NFUs president Minette Batters.

The UK's veterinary sector will also welcome border controls to prevent animal diseases, such as African swine fever.

Border controls will also be welcomed by the estimated one-third of UK-based food exporters who chose to divert sales from exports to their home market, after new Brexit rules kicked in on January 1, 2021.

The new rules will also end preferential UK treatment of EU goods compared to other trading partners.

A programme of engagement on the new Border Target Operating Model (TOM) has commenced with stakeholders from all nations, consisting of sector-specific workshops and bespoke sessions.The UK's Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) will host sector-specific sessions and seminars for those who import or export food, live animals, animal products, plants and/or plants products to or from the UK.

Here in Ireland, Bord Bia will host information webinars and workshops and provide one-to-one support to client companies.
Billions of euros looking for a sustainable investment home could be diverted away from agriculture, if some farming activities are blacklisted in the EU Taxonomy.

A collection of the latest news, views and analysis from the farming desk on the topic of Agribusiness and technology.

In March, 25 organisations wrote to the European Commission urging it not to label certain agriculture and livestock practices as sustainable. They want these practices blacklisted in the EU Taxonomy, which is the list of economic activities the EU considers to be environmentally sustainable. The EU is preparing this list in order to direct investments into sustainable projects and activities as part of the European Green Deal bid to become climate-neutral by 2050.

It is very important in the context of the Green Deal's proposed investment of 1 trillion of sustainability funding over ten years. About half would come from Europes emissions-trading scheme and the EU budget, the rest from private investment.

The EU Taxonomy for Sustainable Activities will rank companies from those which make a substantial contribution to environmental objectives, at the top, to those that do significant harm, at the bottom. It will give investors more certainty that they are investing in line with EU environmental targets. Finance companies will use the taxonomy criteria to screen potential investments.

The Taxonomy spotlight has been on agriculture since October, when an EU expert group, the Platform on Sustainable Finance (PSF), published criteria for deciding which animal production practices make substantial contributions to biodiversity and ecosystems. This included 70 pages of recommendations on agriculture, forestry, and fishing.

For example, the PSF said tillage farms must not exceed a regional permissible farm-gate nitrogen balance limit (the difference between nitrogen in crop output and in fertiliser inputs), to comply with taxonomy criteria.

"We urge the Commission to closely follow the advice of its expert group in producing an EU Taxonomy on agriculture," said the 25 civil society organisations (they include VOICE Ireland, the Irish Seed Savers Association, Coastwatch, the Irish Peatland Conservation Council, the Hedge Laying Association of Ireland, and An Claiomh Glas).

They said "industrial livestock production" must not be recognised as an environmentally sustainable activity, because it causes substantial environmental harms both in the vicinity of the farm and through the upstream activities of producing cereals ... to feed the animals.

They spoke out against intensive monoculture production of cereals for animal feed, with abundant use of agrochemicals. "This leads to soil degradation, biodiversity loss, overuse and pollution of water, as well as air pollution". They said soy imports into the EU represent the second-largest share of EU-driven deforestation.

They also told the Commission that producing animal-sourced food such as meat and dairy emits even more greenhouse gases than growing crops, especially in intensive, industrial livestock systems.

They also advised the Commission not to recognise intensive pig and poultry production as Taxonomy-aligned.

"We appreciate that the Commission is under considerable pressure to greenwash the industrial livestock sector", said the 25 organisations in their letter. "If the Commission is not prepared to fully align with the PSF proposal, we would prefer there to be no Delegated Act on agriculture, than a greenwashed one".

However, the organisations agreed with the PSF approval of integrated crop-livestock systems, where nitrogen nutrients for crops primarily come from the farm's animal manure, and from biological fixation (by legumes such as clover).

What is the Taxonomy?

The Taxonomy will include rules for issuing green bonds to meet the EU's net zero goals. Internationally, green bonds were worth more than half a trillion euro in 2021, but they are only 3% to 3.5% of the total bond issuance which could be influenced by the Taxonomy.

Already, investments have been diverted from the coal industry. "We know we need to move away from particularly harmful energy sources like coal, which today still accounts for 15% of electricity production in Europe", said EU financial services Commissioner Mairead McGuinness, whose portfolio of work includes the Taxonomy.

However, she said the Taxonomy does not "prohibit" investments in any sector, and remains a voluntary tool.

Also, it is up the European Parliament and the Member States to finally approve the Commission's Taxonomy proposals. But rejecting them requires majority support.

Already, the EU Taxonomy has controversially characterised gas-fired power and nuclear energy as sustainable. The Commission faces lawsuits over that decision, including a case bought by Greenpeace in the European Court of Justice.

The European Commission has also proposed green-labelling certain investments in aviation, despite some Commission officials opposing climate-friendly labelling for a sector with such a high carbon footprint.

The Taxonomy Regulation entered into force in 2020, to create the world's first-ever green list classification for environmentally sustainable economic activities. By clearly defining what is 'green', it incentivises and encourages companies to launch new projects, or upgrade existing ones, to meet the criteria. Companies can, if they wish, use the Taxonomy to plan their climate and environmental transition and to raise financing for this transition.

The Commission says the Taxonomy is based on robust, science-based, technical criteria.

Inclusion of agriculture had been delayed until the new Common Agricultural Policy was agreed.
Lin-Manuel Mirandas multi-award-winning musical phenomenon Hamilton will come to Ireland for the very first time next year.

The touring production will play at Dublins Bord Gais Energy Theatre for nine weeks from 17 September until 16 November 2024.

Here is all you need to know about the show that reinvented musical theatre and became a cultural phenomenon.

What is Hamilton about?

Hamilton is the story of lesser-known US founding father and the first secretary of the treasury, Alexander Hamilton, told through rap and hip-hop. It focuses on Hamiltons role in the American fight for independence and his rise to a position of power in the nascent state, and his relationship with Aaron Burr, which ends in tragedy.

Whos behind it?

Creator Lin-Manuel Miranda, 40, was born in New York and is of Puerto Rican descent. His mother is a clinical psychologist and his father a former political consultant to the Democratic Party. A prodigious talent, he began writing musicals in high school, later going on to act, including a now famous brief appearance as a hotel porter in The Sopranos. As well as writing the music, lyrics and book for Hamilton, Miranda played the lead role of Alexander Hamilton in the original cast production.

The inspiration Miranda just wanted a big book to read while going on vacation in 2007. Ron Chernows biography of Hamilton, published in 2004, was that book. I knew that he [Hamilton] was on our $10 bill in the States and I knew that he died in a duel.and that was about it, he said.

Miranda said he was swept up by the story of Hamiltons rise from his humble beginnings as an orphan in the West Indies, to a pivotal role in shaping a young nation.

Recalling the first time Miranda presented him with material from Hamilton, Chernow told the New York Times: He sat on my living room couch, began to snap his fingers, then sang the opening song of the show. When he finished, he asked me what I thought. And I said, I think that's the most astonishing thing I've ever heard in my life. He had accurately condensed the first 40 pages of my book into a four-minute song.

Labour of love

Hamilton may have been an instant smash-hit but it was seven years in the making. Miranda had already achieved critical and commercial success with his first musical In the Heights, set in the Hispanic-American neighbourhood of Washington Heights, near where Miranda grew up.

However, he found Hamilton wasnt an easy sell, and he was told by many people  including his mentor, musical legend Stephen Sondheim  that it wouldnt work. Miranda persevered  he said that after finishing the rousing opening number, Alexander Hamilton, it took him a full year to write the song My Shot  and Hamilton ultimately made its debut at the New Yorks Public Theatre in 2015, immediately garnering rave reviews and moving to Broadway months later.

White House love.

Years before it hit Broadway, Miranda took Hamilton to the White House, performing extracts from its initial incarnation, The Hamilton Mixtape, at a poetry and spoken word event there in 2009.

No one besides my wife and the shower had heard Alexander Hamilton until that night, Miranda said. He and Alex Lacamoire, later musical director of Hamilton, received a standing ovation from US President Barack Obama and wife Michelle.

They returned for a poignant and charged performance with main members of the cast just before the Obamas left office.

and hate

Which brings us to Obamas successor, Donald Trump, who, unsurprisingly, definitely isnt a fan of the musical. At the end of a performance of the show in New York in November, 2016, which was attended by then vice-president elect Mike Pence, cast member Brandon Victor Dixon (Aaron Burr) made a statement emphasising the need for the new administration to work on behalf of all Americans. The following morning, Trump tweeted that the Hamilton cast had harassed Mr Pence and had been very rude.

The music

Hamilton combines hip-hop, rap and more traditional show numbers to potent effect. Miranda has said the hip-hop element came from the fact that Hamilton reminded him of rapper Tupac Shakur.

The idea of hip-hop being the music of the Revolution appealed to me immensely, Miranda told the New York Times. It felt right.

The lyrics Hamiltons all-conquering effect on popular culture can be seen in the way lyrics from the show have entered the everyday lexicon.

The line Immigrants (we get the job done) from the song Yorktown has been adopted as a rallying cry by the millions of American immigrants who have been disenfranchised under Trumps leadership.

Even former US ambassador to the UN, John Bolton has jumped on the Hamilton bandwagon, calling his recent controversial memoir The Room Where it Happened after one of the musicals most popular numbers.

Diversity

The Hamilton team is a pioneer of colour-conscious rather than colour-blind casting, and all productions feature mainly non-white actors. Women are also given prominent roles in the show, in the shape of the Schuyler sisters, one of whom, Eliza, went on to marry Hamilton. As Barack Obama said at the casts White House performance: With a cast as diverse as America itself, including the outstandingly talented women, the show reminds us that this nation was built by more than just a few great menand that it is an inheritance that belongs to all of us.

The numbers Hamilton had grossed over $622 million to the end of 2019. The show opened in Londons West End in October, 2017, and until the Covid-19 crisis, was playing in several cities across the US. And, while tickets for Hamilton can go for hundreds of dollars, the Hamilton lottery allows people buy last-minute tickets for $10.

Cult following

Hamilton's original London cast on the West End

Hamilton tickets are notoriously hard to come by but thanks to one of the biggest-selling musical soundtracks of all time, the show is loved by millions of fans around the world who have never actually seen the show.

Online clips are rare but the hugely popular #Ham4Ham shows pre-show sidewalk performances by cast members to entertain the queues of $10-seat lottery hopefuls have been widely shared on social media, adding even more to the cult of fandom surrounding the show.

What they did next

Mirandas enviable work ethic can be seen in the sheer range of projects he has been involved in since Hamilton, including starring roles in Mary Poppins Returns and the BBC adaptation of Philip Pullmans His Dark Materials, and producing the biographical mini-series Fosse/Verdon.

He is currently working on a movie version of In the Heights, directing a Netflix adaptation of the musical, Tick, Tick... Boom, producing Disney's The Little Mermaid live-action remake, and making a documentary about actress Rita Moreno. He is also active in social justice causes  in 2018, he did a three-week run of Hamilton in Puerto Rico to raise money after it was devastated by Hurricane Maria.

Other original cast members have been busy too  Christopher Jackson (George Washington) starred in a lead role in the CBS series Bull and appeared in Netflixs When They See Us. Jonathan Groff (King George) starred in the acclaimed Netflix series Mindhunter, while Daveed Diggs (Marquis de Lafayette/Thomas Jefferson) has appeared in the Netflix adaptation of Snowpiercer and will lend his voice to the upcoming Pixar movie, Soul.

This article was first published in June 2020 ahead of Hamilton's release on Disney+.
A man has been rushed to hospital with serious injuries after he was struck by a car in the wake of a shooting in Dublin on Monday evening.

Gardai and emergency services say they responded to reports of an incident in the Kiltalown area of Jobstown, Dublin 24 just before 5pm.

A number of shots were fired at a house. The man, who is aged in his 30s, was then seriously injured after being involved in a collision.

He was taken from scene by ambulance to Tallaght Hospital, where he is described as being in a critical but stable condition.

A second male, in his 20s, was also injured in the incident and was taken to Tallaght Hospital. His injuries are said to be non-life-threatening.

Gardai say that, shortly after the incidents, a car was discovered on fire and abandoned on Mount Seskin Road.

A number of crime scenes have been cordoned off and are currently preserved for forensic and technical examination.

An incident room has been established at Tallaght Garda Station and a senior investigating officer has been appointed in the case.

A Garda spokesperson said no arrests had been made at this time.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the incident room at Tallaght Garda Station 01-6666000, the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.

"Investigations are ongoing and further updates will follow," the spokesperson said.
A mountaineer from Northern Ireland died while descending from the summit of the worlds 10th highest peak and an Indian climber is missing on the same mountain, climbing officials said on Tuesday.

Noel Hanna, who had climbed Mount Everest 10 times, scaled the 8,091 metres (26,545 feet) Annapurna peak in west Nepal on Monday and died overnight in Camp IV after descending from the peak.

Yubaraj Khatiwada, an official of the Department of Tourism, said the circumstances of Mr Hannas death were unclear.

He said an Indian climber, who fell into a crevasse on the lower reaches of Annapurna, has been missing since Monday.

Two other Indian mountaineers, who were caught up in bad weather while climbing Annapurna, were being rescued, hiking company officials said.

Annapurna peak in west Nepal, first climbed by Maurice Herzog of France in the early 1950s, is considered dangerous because of the risk of frequent avalanches.

Mr Hannas friend and fellow mountaineer Pat Falvy told RTE that details were scant, but it is believed that he died at base camp after returning from the mountains summit.

I got a text in from my people in Kathmandu which said that Noel had passed away, he said.

Mr Hanna was an experienced climber, having reached the summit of Mount Everest 10 times and was the first person from the island of Ireland to successfully climb and descend from K2, the worlds second highest mountain.

He lived in Dromore in Co Down with his wife Lynne, who is also an experienced climber, and the two had scaled Everest together in 2016.

Mourne Mountain Adventures said it was very saddened to hear of the death of Mr Hanna and sent its condolences to his family and his wife.

There is some peace in that he spent his last moments doing what he loved best, such a great man and one of Northern Irelands finest mountaineers, it said.

DUP MLA for Antrim Paul Frew said on Twitter: So sorry to hear of the death of Noel Hanna from Northern Ireland who had just become the 1st Irish climber to summit Annapurna.

Noel was an absolute legend climbing K2, Manaslu, and Everest 10 times! My thoughts & prayers are with his family at this sad time.

At least 365 people have climbed Annapurna and more than 72 have died on the mountain, according to hiking officials.

Last week, three Nepali sherpa climbers died after being hit by an ice serac on the lower parts of Mount Everest.

Nepal has eight of the worlds 14 highest mountains. Climbing Himalayan peaks and hiking on their foot hills are popular adventure sports as well as a source of employment and income for the country which is tucked between China and India.

 additional reporting from PA
Rishi Sunak has paid tribute to Lyra McKee, marking the anniversary of the journalists death in Northern Ireland in 2019.

Ms McKee died after being hit by a bullet during rioting in the Creggan area of Derry on April 18 2019, with dissident republican group the New IRA linked to the killing.

The remarks by the British prime minister, who praised her as the embodiment of a better Northern Ireland, come as the region marks the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement.

In strongly rejecting sectarianism, she embodied the Northern Ireland that I see today - one of realising a better Northern Ireland than what had come before her

In a tribute issued by Downing Street to mark four years since the shooting, Mr Sunak said: Today, we remember Lyra McKee, a journalist who caught the imagination of young people in Northern Ireland.

In strongly rejecting sectarianism, she embodied the Northern Ireland that I see today  one of realising a better Northern Ireland than what had come before her.

We stand united against the insidious ideology of those who stole her dreams and what she could have gone on to contribute.

Former US president Bill Clinton and ex-US secretary of state Hillary Clinton, both in Northern Ireland to attend events reflecting on the past and future of the peace deal, were guests at a special screening in Belfast of a film about Ms McKee.
A judge sentencing a man for pushing a member of An Garda Siochana to the ground during a disturbance in Douglas village, Cork, said: It has to stop  it doesnt do any good for society.

Judge Olann Kelleher imposed a four-month prison term on a Polish man visiting Cork who pleaded guilty to obstructing the garda.

Piotr Woycik, aged 33, appeared at Cork District Court by video link from prison having been remanded in custody since the incident on April 6.

Sergeant Gearoid Davis said Woycik of no fixed address came to the attention of a garda on that date at Church Road, Douglas, Cork, when he was seen acting suspiciously. Detective Garda David Hickey approached the defendant and he fled. The detective later came across him at Douglas Village shopping centre.

Upon seeing Det Garda Hickey he ran at him, knocking Det Garda Hickey to the ground. He again fled from the detective causing damage to his jacket.

Following a short foot pursuit, he was apprehended and arrested.

The accused made a number of comments through a Polish interpreter when the prosecution was giving an outline of the circumstances of the case.

Piotr Woycik said: I did not resist arrest. I allowed him to arrest me.

He went on to deny pushing the detective and said he slipped into the injured party.

Judge Olann Kelleher said on that point: I dont accept that.

The judge said the accused appeared to be changing his plea to one of not guilty. Solicitor Eddie Burke said the defendant was pleading guilty to the offence and the related charge of being drunk and a danger.

Mr Burke said the man had lived in Ireland for a while back in 2016 but returned to live in Poland. This latest incident occurred during a brief visit to Cork to visit family members.

When he saw the guard, unfortunately, he did panic and run away. He was only visiting. This happened on April 6 and he had a return ticket to return to Poland on April 7. He does apologise," Mr Burke said.

Judge Kelleher imposed a four-month prison sentence on the accused, backdated to when he went into custody.
One of two men convicted of the killing of Timothy Hourihane in Cork city has lodged an appeal against a life sentence.

Christopher OSullivan, of no fixed address and originally from Kerry, lodged his appeal with the Courts Service on April 5  less than a week after he was handed down a life sentence for his role in the killing of the west Cork native. He had pleaded guilty to his role in the death of father-of-one Timmy Hourihane.

Mr Hourihane, 53, was attacked near his tent on Mardyke Walk in October 2019 and died a short time later in hospital. The former chef was a native of the Sheeps Head peninsula and had worked for many years in London.

Evidence was heard that as he lay dying, his tent was set alight, his killers walked over to his tent nearby and set fire to it. Christopher OSullivan burnt some of his clothes in the blaze.

In passing sentence, Mr Justice Paul McDermott said the killing was carried out in a vicious, merciless and brutal manner.

Describing Mr Hourihanes death as horrible, the judge said he was repeatedly kicked and stamped on while prone and defenceless on the ground.

In a victim impact statement read to the court, Mr Hourihanes son Elliot said: As an only child, I feel I need to fight for him to the end. It wont bring him back but hopefully with the help of the court we can get some form of justice for him.

At the sentence hearing, OSullivans senior counsel, Roisin Lacey, said: He wants to offer the sincerest and deepest apology to the Hourihane family for his participation in and contribution to the death of Mr Hourihane. He has by his plea of guilty accepted his guilt.

He had a traumatic childhood. In essence, it is unspeakable on so many levels and makes for tragic reading.

He said himself, Timmy is dead and we caused it. There is an acknowledgement. He did not want a trial because he accepts his part in this.

OSullivans co-accused, James Brady of Shannon Lawn, Mayfield, Cork city, was sentenced to 13 years, with the last two suspended, after a four-week trial. He was also convicted of manslaughter.
The Minister for Transport has been urged to reinstate funding that he axed for the progression of a badly needed bypass of Mallow, Co. Cork. In a letter to Eamon Ryan, Transport Infrastructure Ireland notes that the project is consistent with national policy.

Councillors representing the North Cork region have expressed anger that just 100,000 was allocated to the towns northern relief road project instead of the 1.3m sought to finish off its design and progress to issuing CPOs (Compulsory Purchase Orders).

Council officials told local public representatives that the 100,000 allocation was made following a ministerial order issued by Mr Ryan to TII and means the project is largely suspended.

Fine Gael councillor John Paul OShea said it was extremely disappointing that the allocation TII had sought has been rejected by Mr Ryan.

This has been a priority project for the county council and TII for a number of years now. It is consistent with all objectives of national policy. The population of Mallow is set for a significant increase. Active travel is also included in it, linking estates on the outskirts of the town into the town centre and train station, Mr OShea said.

A letter written to the council by TII stated that Mr Ryan had issued a Section 24 order to the roads authority that it could only allocate 100,000 of the 1.3m it had sought for the project this year.

Padraig Barrett, the councils director of roads, said Mr Ryan had the right to issue the Section 24 order under the powers vested in him by the 1993 Roads Act.

We need to communicate our strong opinions to Minister Ryan and the department on this. The 1.3m requested is miniscule in the scale of things and we want it reinstated, Mr OShea said.

Both he and Fianna Fail councillor, Bernard Moynihan, said that the lack of a northern relief road in Mallow is seriously impacting economic growth in North Cork and also Kerry.

Mr Moynihan said he had been approached by a number of companies in Kerry who are concerned about the delay in building the road. Its a huge issue, he added.

Anything that impacts the economy of Mallow also affects the economy of the rest of North Cork, Fine Gael councillor Kay Dawson said.

Its hugely important we get the money for this. Farmers cant make plans for the future because it has been put on hold, Fine Gael councillor Liam Madden said.

Mr Moynihan, who is chairman of the councils Northern Division, got agreement from Mr OShea that the council will write to Mr Ryan urging him to give TII the money requested by it.

The council is also to write to all Oireachtas members in Cork and Kerry outlining the economic and environmental importance of the relief road and urging them to lobby the Minister for Transport on the issue. TII has said it will inform the council when it gets a reply to its correspondence to Mr Ryan.

"We were making significant progress on this. New businesses wont come into Mallow as its a no-go area because of traffic, Fine Gael councillor Tony OShea said.

At the request of Mr Moynihan, councillors and their officials are also to seek a deputation with the region's Oireachtas members in Dublin as soon as possible to ask them to lobby Mr Ryan.
A group that campaigned for over a decade for the preservation of what was once one of Irelands great Georgian villas before it fell derelict and was gutted by fire has called for public support to name a new pedestrian bridge after historic Vernon Mount House.

If you are interested in this article then no doubt you will enjoy exploring the various history collections and content in our history hub. Check it out HERE and happy reading

The Grange Frankfield Partnership (GFP) said with the once-glorious 1780s-built property now in ruin, the city has an obligation to commemorate it as it urged people to make a submission to Cork City Council's public naming process.

The soon-to-be-installed bridge over the N40 will link Tramore Valley Park via a new cycling path to the Grange Road, which runs close to Vernon Mount House. GFP spokesman, Ger Lehane, said the fire in the house in July 2016 put a brutal end to their efforts.

A lot of history, and hope, went up in that fire, he said. What remains physically is iconic in its own desolate way, as the ruined structure presides prominently over Tramore Valley Park.

What remains may be beyond preservation, but our city fathers have an opportunity, as well as an obligation, to see that its place in Corks history, and particularly local history, is preserved in the impending naming of the bridge.

The GFP, which was formed in 2010 to explore opportunities arising out of the multi-million remediation of Cork citys former landfill as Tramore Valley public park, had two key objectives  to campaign for the preservation of Vernon Mount House, a protected structure, and to campaign for a connection from the Grange Road to Tramore Valley Park.

It wrote to the then National Roads Authority promoting the value and benefits of a bridge link to the park, a proposal the NRA said had merit, and it engaged with Cork County Council.

The burnt out remains of Vernon Mount House. GFP spokesman, Ger Lehane, said: A lot of history, and hope, went up in that fire. Picture: Larry Cummins

It even worked with SECAD to clear dense undergrowth in the Vernon Mount Valley to reveal the potential behind the bridge proposal.

In 2017, the county council began a Part 8 planning process for a pedestrian/cycleway bridge over the N40 but following the city boundary extension in 2019, the city council took over the project.

Meanwhile, Vernon Mount House itself was acquired by a US-based Irish-born investor and it fell into dereliction.

Read More Public to have their say on plans for new 5m Cork greenway

In its efforts to save the property, GFP engaged with the Irish Georgian Society, which was instrumental in having Vernon Mount placed on the World Monuments Fund List of 100 Most Endangered Sites in 2008, the US Georgian Society Inc, and a meeting in Ireland with the directors and custodians of George Washingtons Mount Vernon in Virginia.

It led to a 175,000 investment in roof repairs by Cork County Council but despite repeated warnings from the GFP about the risk to the property, the building was gutted in a suspected arson attack in July 2016. The remains of the house were placed on the citys derelict sites register in 2020.

The soon-to-be-installed bridge over the N40 will link Tramore Valley Park via a new cycling path to the Grange Road, which runs close to Vernon Mount House. Picture: Larry Cummins.

Mr Lehane said: It is generally accepted that heritage is a keystone to our culture, and we fear that failure to understand and adopt the opportunities presented in our proposal, is to consign a significant chapter of our heritage and history to oblivion.

According to the guidelines for the bridge naming, the name should honour a significant event, individual or group, or reflect important local features or geographical location, and proposals to commemorate living persons will not be considered.

Separately, a Part 8 planning process for a short link from Alden Estate to the new bridge is underway.

Submissions on the bridge naming must be made by logging on to consult.corkcity.ie by 4pm on April 28. GFP tells the story of Vernon Mount House at vernonmountpark.ie.
Group of Seven (G7) foreign ministers vowed to intensify sanctions against Russia over its war in Ukraine as they wrapped up their meeting in Japan on Tuesday.

We remain committed to intensifying sanctions against Russia, coordinating and fully enforcing them, the G7 ministers said in a statement.

There can be no impunity for war crimes and other atrocities such as Russias attacks against civilians and critical civilian infrastructure.

Russias irresponsible nuclear rhetoric and its threat to deploy nuclear weapons in Belarus are unacceptable.

British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly, left, and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken (Andrew Harnik/AP, Pool)

The ministers also agreed to continue their utmost support for Ukraine.

The G7 ministers from Japan, the US, UK, France, Germany, Canada, Italy and the European Union have underlined that their meeting in Karuizawa marked a crucial moment in the worlds response to both crises, which are seen as challenges to the post-Second World War rules-based international order.

Global efforts to confront the matters at the United Nations have been stymied by Chinese and Russian intransigence on the Security Council.

Leaders and foreign ministers of G7 countries, most recently France and Germany, have recently concluded visits to China, and there is growing worry after China recently sent planes and ships to simulate an encirclement of Taiwan.

Beijing has also been rapidly adding nuclear warheads, taking a tougher line on its claim to the South China Sea and painting a scenario of impending confrontation.

The G7 ministers said that peace and stability between China and Taiwan is an indispensable element in security and prosperity in the international community, and they called for the peaceful resolution of cross-Strait issues.
The United Nations is ready to take the heartbreaking decision to pull out of Afghanistan in May if it cannot persuade the Taliban to let local women work for the organisation, the head of the UN Development Programme said.

UN officials are negotiating with the Afghan government in the hope that it will make exceptions to an edict this month barring local women from working for the organisation, UNDP administrator Achim Steiner told The Associated Press.

It is fair to say that where we are right now is the entire United Nations system having to take a step back and re-evaluating its ability to operate there, Mr Steiner said. But its not about negotiating fundamental principles, human rights.

The Taliban have allowed Afghan women to engage in some work, Mr Steiner said, and a UN report released on Tuesday shows that the country desperately needs more women working, with its economy flailing.

I think there is no other way of putting it than heartbreaking

The Taliban takeover has been accompanied by some very modest signs of economic recovery. There has been some increase in exports, some exchange rate stabilisation and less inflation.

However, gross domestic product, the sum of all goods and services produced within Afghanistans borders, is expected to be outstripped by population growth, meaning that per capita income will decline from 359 dollars (288) in 2022 to 345 dollars (277) in 2024, the report says.

Some of those economic problems are due to Taliban policies keeping most women out of the workplace, Mr Steiner said. Those problems mean more need in the country, but the UN has decided that human rights are non-negotiable and it will leave in May if the Taliban do not relent.

I think there is no other way of putting it than heartbreaking, Mr Steiner said. I mean, if I were to imagine the UN family not being in Afghanistan today, I have before me these images of millions of young girls, young boys, fathers, mothers, who essentially will not have enough to eat.

A source of faint optimism is the Talibans allowing women to work in specific circumstances in health, education and some small businesses.

Our future plans and priorities are developing the agricultural and industrial sectors as well as mining extraction

In one sense, the de facto authorities have enabled the UN to roll out a significant humanitarian and also emergency development assistance set of activities, Mr Steiner said. But they also continuously are shifting the goalposts, issuing new edicts.

Despite initial promises of a more moderate rule than during their previous stint in power in the 1990s, the Taliban have imposed harsh measures since taking over the country in 2021 as US and Nato forces were pulling out of Afghanistan after two decades of war.

A spokesman for the Afghan Economy Ministry, Abdul Rahman Habib, told the AP that international banking restrictions, the halt in humanitarian assistance and climate change explain the countrys poverty rate and poor economy.

However, he cited lower inflation and dependence on imports, improved regional trade and business relations, and the eradication of poppy cultivation as signs of economic progress and good governance.

Our future plans and priorities are developing the agricultural and industrial sectors as well as mining extraction, supporting domestic business and domestic products, more focus on exports, attracting domestic and foreign investors, creating special economic zones and much more, Mr Habib said.

This month the Taliban took a step further in the restrictive measures they have imposed on women and said that female Afghan staff employed with the UN mission can no longer report for work.

This is a very fundamental moment that were approaching, Mr Steiner said. And obviously our hope and expectation is that there will be some common sense prevailing.

Aid agencies have been providing food, education and health care support to Afghans since the Taliban takeover and the economic collapse that followed it. No country has recognised the Taliban as the legitimate government of Afghanistan, and the countrys seat at the UN is held by the former government of president Ashraf Ghani.

The 3,300 Afghans employed by the UN.  2,700 men and 600 women  have stayed at home since April 12 but continue to work and will be paid, UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric has said. The UNs 600 international workers, including 200 women, are not affected by the Taliban ban.
Seven soldiers were injured after armoured military vehicles crashed into each other on a Bavarian highway, German police said.

Several German media outlets reported that the vehicles involved in the crash on Monday belonged to the US military, but German police said they were not authorised to give out information on the nationality of the injured soldiers.
Burma Chin Resistance Destroys Myanmar Junta Reinforcement Convoy

A junta armored vehicle that escorted the Chin State convoy was destroyed by resistance forces.

A Myanmar junta convoy traveling to reinforce the Chin State capital Hakha was completely destroyed by resistance forces on Thursday before reaching the city.

The convoy, which was defended by two armored vehicles, left Kale in Sagaing Region with around 30 trucks in early March to reinforce Hakha but Chin resistance groups repeatedly ambushed the vehicles, inflicting casualties.

Chin National Front spokesman Salai Htet Ni told The Irrawaddy the remaining vehicles were destroyed or disabled near Chuncung village about 16km from Hakha.

Our troops have been attacking along the road but the ambush near Chuncung ended it, Salai Htet Ni said.

The convoy originally had around 200 troops but was reduced to about 40 soldiers and 12 vehicles before the final ambush. Resistance groups used drones and landmines, destroying an armored vehicle and the remaining trucks, according to resistance groups.

Some junta troops escaped to the village on Thursday, groups said.

Junta shelling and airstrikes followed the attack.

The reinforcements were sent to Chin State in March and April ahead of the rainy season.

In April last year, over 70 junta trucks left Magwe Region for Chin State and many soldiers were killed and injured in ambushes.
Burma Myanmar Junta Airstrike Kills Three Chin Civilians

A Myanmar junta fighter jet.

At least three Chin State civilians, including a child, were killed and six injured in a Myanmar regime airstrike on Mindat Township, according to southern Chin State resistance groups.

A woman in her 70s, a four-year-old and 17-year-old girl were killed on Sunday, according to the Chin Defense Force (CDF) in Mindat.

Two of the victims died on the spot and another died later in the day. Two men and four women were injured, the CDF reported.

Two fighters attacked Pan Par village about six times and dropped at least 17 bombs on Sunday afternoon.

Light Infantry Battalion 274 based in Mindat town also shelled the village.

At least nine Pan Par houses were destroyed and the villagers have deserted their homes, according to sources.

Pan Par is a small village where many displaced people were taking shelter. Everyone is now hiding in the forests because they fear more airstrikes, a resident said.

Children and the elderly hiding in the forest are facing many difficulties, according to a source.

Many fled their homes with only the clothes on their backs. Communications are down too, he said.

Fighting broke out on the border with Magwe Region on April 7 but no clashes have been reported since April 10.

The junta frequently retaliates with airstrikes on civilian targets after its ground troops suffer casualties.

At least 10 civilians, including a child, were killed and four wounded when two bombs were dropped on Webula town in northern Chin State on April 10.

Last month regime troops launched an airstrike on Kwarpho village in Thantlang Township, killing at least eight residents and injuring more than 10.

On April 11 an airstrike on Pazi Gyi village in Kantbalu Township, Sagaing Region, killed at least 168 people and injured 16, according to the civilian National Unity Government.
Burma Myanmar Junta to Free 3,000 Prisoners in Traditional New Year Amnesty

Relatives gather around a bus carrying prisoners being released outside the Insein prison in Yangon on April 17, 2023. / AFP

YANGONMyanmars junta on Monday began releasing more than 3,000 prisoners to mark the traditional New Year, without specifying whether those jailed in its bloody crackdown on dissent would be freed.

The military has arrested thousands since its coup more than two years ago, which plunged the country into turmoil and sparked widespread clashes with anti-coup fighters.

Junta chief Min Aung Hlaing pardoned 3,015 prisoners to mark Myanmar New Year, for the peaceful mind of the people and on humanitarian grounds, the juntas information team said in a statement.

Those who reoffend would have to serve the remainder of their sentence with an additional penalty, the statement said.

It did not say whether anti-junta protesters or journalists jailed covering the coup and its aftermath would be among those freed.

A further 98 foreigners serving sentences in Myanmar would also be pardoned and freed, according to a separate junta statement that did not provide details.

Around 100 people gathered outside Insein Prison in the commercial hub Yangon after the announcement, hoping their friends and loved ones would be included in the amnesty.

Win Win Htay said her younger brother had been jailed for four months after police stopped him at a checkpoint and found a small knife on his keychain.

I hope he will be released today, she told AFP as she waited outside the prison.

Two yellow buses later pulled out from the prison compound, with some in the waiting crowd waving and calling to those inside.

Shortly after its coup, the junta released around 23,000 prisoners, with some rights groups at the time fearing the move was to free up space for opponents of the military as well as to cause chaos in communities.

The country typically grants an amnesty to thousands of prisoners to mark its traditional New Year holiday, which in previous years was a joyous affair.

But this year, streets in many major cities were silent in boycott after a military air strike on a village in a resistance hotspot that media and locals said killed more than 170 people.

More than 21,000 people have been arrested since the military ousted Daw Aung San Suu Kyis government in February 2021, according to a local monitoring group.

She has been detained since the early hours of the coup.

In December, the junta wrapped up a series of closed-court trials of the 77-year-old Nobel Peace laureate, jailing her for a total of 33 years in a process rights groups have condemned as a sham.

At least 170 journalists have been arrested since the putsch, according to the United Nations.
Burma Myanmar Military Defectors Urge Ex-Colleagues to Jump Ship Now

Myanmar military personnel are seen during an Armed Forces Day commemoration. / Military website

Defectors from the Myanmar military and police force have echoed the recent call by the prime minister of the National Unity Government (NUG) for junta troops to join the resistance movement, warning their former colleagues that they may be running out of time.

NUG Prime Minister Mahn Winn Khaing Thann on March 30 warned regime military and police personnel who continue to protect the terrorist generals to defect while there is still an opportunity.

He added in his speech that the time is fast approaching when they will need to make a final decision on where they stand.

Military and police personnel who have joined the countrys Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM), a nationwide boycott by Myanmar civil servants of the regime following its takeover, said they agreed with the civilian leaders call.

They said enough time has been given to those serving under the murderous junta.

Captain Lin Htet Aung, who joined the CDM in March 2021, one month after the coup, and now helps other defectors join the movement, warned regime forces that the juntas military will inevitably lose, and its defeat was just a matter of time.

Today, the military is experiencing the worst period in its entire history, the defector officer said.

Captain Htet Myat, who joined the movement in June 2021 and is also currently working to assist other military and police defectors, echoed the call for junta troops to join the movement.

Just over 14,000 military troops and police officers were participating in the CDM as of the end of March, according to the NUG.

This is still only around 2.5 percent of the Myanmar junta militarys total troop strength, which is estimated at around 500,000, according to the World Bank and other international bodies.

The captains said that while a figure of over 10,000 defectors is indeed still quite high, it is not as many as the people had hoped for.

Capt. Htet Myat told The Irrawaddy that if the resistance forces could put more military pressure on the junta in the coming months, the number of military and police personnel willing to defect and join the CDM could climb.

However, he stressed the need for greater support for defectors.

More protection, support needed

The military CDM participants told The Irrawaddy that there were very limited resources available to provide the necessary support for additional military and police defectors and their families.

They said they needed to cover the security, safety and living needs of the defectors and their relatives. Many existing military and police CDM participants and their families are facing difficulties, they said.

Capt. Htet Myat said resistance stakeholders, especially the NUG and other anti-regime bodies, had put a lot of energy into encouraging junta troops to join the CDM, but added that efforts to persuade soldiers they are fighting for the wrong cause are not whats needed.

Many troops keep serving the junta even though they dont like it, he said.

Capt. Htet Myat suggested to the responsible bodies, including the NUG, that their efforts would be better spent finding ways to support those who do join the CDM.

The NUG has admitted that it is still only able to help about 6,000 of the more than 14,000 military and police CDM participants. In many cases, it says, this is because the defectors and their families havent been able to connect with the NUG to get the support. For those registered with it, the NUG provides monthly financial support, accommodation, and help finding new jobs and education for their children.

NUG ministers say they face numerous difficulties and restrictions in assisting the striking military and police personnel, especially in terms of funding and being able to access them, while it is often difficult for the defectors to reach safe or liberated areas.

The military personnel participating in the CDM explained that most of them have to rely on donations and other support from ordinary people and Myanmar expatriates.

A former military sergeant said he endured the toughest period of his life after he fled the barracks with his family to join the movement, adding that this was one reason he has not been more vocal in calling on his former colleagues to follow his lead.

It has been quite difficult for us to tell them [those who no longer want to work for the junta]: So just leave, said Capt. Htet Myat. If we call on them to just come out, we are responsible for protecting them and taking care of them.

Barriers, brainwashing and threats

According to figures from the NUGs Ministry of Defense, at least 30,000 junta troops have died in clashes with the peoples resistance forces, ethnic revolutionary organizations (EROs) and ethnic armed organizations (EAOs) since the coup.

With the regime suffering such heavy losses across the country, the junta troops themselves do not want to keep serving the regime on the ground, the military defectors said. However, they are not abandoning the barracks yet due to the threats to their own security, the defectors added.

The CDM captains explained that they were able to join the CDM after contacting Peoples Embrace, a group that helps defectors, and registering.

In Myanmar, the term watermelon has become a widely used euphemism for those who remain employees of the junta but who help the popular resistance in whatever way they can.

Capt. Htet Myat said that although the watermelons are not able to leave their posts at this moment, they are assisting the revolution by providing vital information to the resistance, adding that these soldiers should be spared any punishment after the revolution succeeds.

Capt. Lin Htet Aung added that the junta is spreading fake news about the CDM among the troops as part of its propaganda and brainwashing efforts, which increase every day.

Citing information provided by resistance spies and informants, he said the junta has threatened those who join the CDM with death, while troops are barred from contacting people living outside of their military communities. Soldiers also have to worry about the safety and livelihoods of their families.

Despite these challenges, new military and police deserters emerge occasionally.

On April 3, three troops from Light Infantry Battalion 101 and four police officers based in Myaing Township, Magwe Region defected, according to the Myaing Township Peoples Defense Force (PDF).

They defected to us, bringing their guns along with them. They contacted us a few months before they defected, and we remained in communication with them, said Bo Letyar, the leader and spokesperson of Myaing PDF.

Myaing PDF awarded over 70 million kyats (around US$33,300) to the seven defectors as a reward for their participation in the resistance movement. The defectors have been sent to a safe area.

The defector captains urged their former colleagues in the juntas military and police force to take the opportunity offered by the NUGs invitation and reach out to the Peoples Embrace group and join the CDM en masse before the door closes.

Capt. Lin Htet Aung acknowledged that joining the CDM may not seem like much of a reward, given that it too requires a huge sacrifice.

But everyone needs to participate and struggle together if we want a better future for the country, he said.

A 23-year-old male student in Mandalay who walked out of his classrooms at the University of Mandalay after the coup said that the ordinary citizens of the country continue to have high hopes that military and police personnel will join the CDM.

If all of them actually joined the movement, we wouldnt even need to fight a war against the junta and we could easily take power back from Min Aung Hlaing and send him to jail, he said.
Burma Three Myanmar Junta Forces Killed in Thaton Pincer Attack: Resistance Group

A resistance fighter fires his weapon at the Thein Seik Police outpost in Thaton Township, Mon State on Monday. / HRS

Three regime forces were killed in Thaton Township, Mon State on Monday when three resistance groups launched simultaneous attacks on a police outpost and military battalion, according to the Hawk Revolutionary Squad (HRS).

The HRS said it coordinated with the Thaton Peoples Defense Force and the Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA), the armed wing of the Karen National Union (KNU), to attack the regime bases.

At 10.20 am on Monday, the combined resistance forces attacked Thein Seik Police outpost in the township with automatic weapons and heavy explosives.

Video shot by the resistance group shows the fighters, who arrived in vehicles, attacking the police base at its entrance.

Three regime troops were killed and three others including the head of the police outpost were injured, the HRS said.

At the same time, other members of the combined groups used drones to drop 60mm bombs on the juntas Light Infantry Battalion 9 in the township.

The house of the military battalion commander, barracks and buildings in the military base were damaged by the drone strikes, the resistance group said.

The Irrawaddy has been unable to verify either the military casualties or the damage.

The resistance group claimed there were no resistance casualties.
War Against the Junta Dozens of Myanmar Junta Forces Killed in Shan State Clashes: Mandalay PDF

Resistance fighters of the Mandalay People's Defense Force. / MDY PDF

The Mandalay Peoples Defense Force (MDY PDF) claims to have killed at least 75 Myanmar junta forces and wounded 60 others during 10 days of intense fighting in northern Shan State from April 5-14.

Seven resistance fighters were killed in the clashes, the resistance group said.

The junta used at least 900 troops from its seven military battalions and pro-regime militia members, as well as three Russian-made aircraft, to attack PDF bases, MDY PDF said.

The clashes started on April 5 near the border between Mandalay Regions Pwin Oo Lwin Township and Naung Cho Township in northern Shan State when the MDY PDF attacked regime forces in two vehicles as they approached Than Pho village.

Two junta soldiers were fatally shot during the clash and some PDF fighters were injured. Regime forces retaliated by shelling Than Pho village, killing two children and injuring three other residents.

Heavy fighting continued in the area on April 6 when a large force of junta foot soldiers launched another attack while junta artillery units used 60mm and 120 mm rounds to bomb the resistance bases, said MDY PDF.

The junta troops were forced to retreat after suffering heavy losses in resistance attacks. The following day, the commando unit of the MDY PDF raided regime artillery positions in the area.

On April 8, another heavy firefight broke out when regime forces again attempted to raid the PDF bases. Resistance forces counterattacked, pursuing the regime troops as they retreated before occupying a junta base.

The next morning, the resistance group and regime forces shelled each other with artillery rounds.

On April 10, a day-long clash erupted as junta forces tried twice to occupy the PDF bases. After facing losses on the ground, the regime again turned to air power, deploying a Russian-made MI 35 helicopter gunship and SU-30 and YAK-130 fighter jets to conduct 15 airstrikes against PDF forces.

According to eyewitness reports from PDF fighters, at least 35 soldiers were killed in the clashes, 30 of them when regime aircraft mistakenly attacked its own troops, the MDY PDF claimed.

Fierce clashes continued in the area until April 14. The junta sent in more troops and used the three aircraft in efforts to seize a PDF base in the area on Friday but were forced to retreat by resistance fighters, said MDY PDF.

Resistance fighters witnessed the bodies of regime soldiers being buried in the surrounding forest. Other junta casualties, both dead and injured, were transported out of the area.

The MDY PDF, which submitted video evidence, said they also buried bodies of regime troops abandoned on the battlefield.

The Irrawaddy has been unable to confirm the military casualties.

Clashes are currently being reported across the country almost daily as PDFs and Ethnic Armed Organizations (EAOs) step up their attacks on regime targets amid an ongoing spate of junta atrocities.
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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.
Farida Panahova, head of the British Azerbaijani Community in London, addressed a letter to British Foreign Secretary James Cleverley in connection with the Azerbaijani soldiers captured in Armenia.

Azernews reports with reference to the press service of the State Committee for Diaspora Affairs that the letter clarified the reasons why the soldiers of the Azerbaijani army - Babirov Agshin Gabil oglu and Akhundov Hussein Ahliman oglu were in Armenian captivity, drew attention to inhuman actions against our military personnel. This criminal incident is regarded as a gross violation of international humanitarian laws by Armenia.

It is noted that it is important that international organizations investigate not only this criminal incident, but also acts of violence by Armenia over the past 30 years against the missing 3,890 Azerbaijanis, and give them a proper assessment.

It was once again noted that Armenia does not fulfill its obligations under important international acts, including the Geneva Convention, the conventions against torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.

The head of the community urged the British minister to intervene in this issue: It is important to send a clear message to the world that the UK will not tolerate violations of international law, to state that we stand in solidarity with the government of Azerbaijan, which is making efforts to achieve justice for our two soldiers".

We believe that by protecting human rights and the rule of law, we can turn the planet into a safer and fairer space for all, said Farida Panahova.
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
Today

Partly cloudy skies during the morning giving way to a few showers late. High 66F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 30%.

Tonight

Mainly cloudy. Low 46F. Winds light and variable.

Tomorrow

Mostly cloudy skies. Slight chance of a rain shower. High 68F. Winds light and variable.




According to NOAA's Climate Prediction Center, conditions are favorable for the development of El Nino within the next 6 months.





"While we are still in an ENSO-neutral phase when El Nino or La Nina are not present there is a 62% chance that El Nino will develop sometime between May and July. This comes after nearly two continuous years of La Nina events," the statement reads.





NOAA explained that the El Nino-Southern Oscillation (or ENSO) is a climate pattern defined by sea surface temperature and precipitation departures from normal across the equatorial Pacific Ocean that can influence weather and climate patterns across the U.S. and around the world.





It stated that, in March, both the Southern Oscillation Index and the Equatorial Southern Oscillation Index were close to zero.





El Nino is the warm phase of ENSO when ocean temperatures are warmer and precipitation is greater than normal in the area spanning the central to eastern Pacific Ocean.





The U.S. climate agency stated that the latest runs from our computer climate models are providing very high probabilities that El Nino will develop this year. In addition, the water temperature in the tropical Pacific saw an increase in the past month as a Kelvin wave traversed the ocean.





"This warm subsurface will provide a source of warmer water to the surface over the next couple of months and helps provide confidence in the forecast," it added.





In addition, wind anomalies will be displayed, which will allow the sea surface to get warmer.





"One more observation supporting the potential development of El Nino is the currently very warm far-eastern Pacific. The Nino-1+2 index, which measures the sea surface temperature off the coast of Peru, was near-record warm in March. A coastal El Nino like this can precede a larger El Nino event, although not always," it underlined.





NOAA scientists will continue to monitor the potential development of El Nino and will issue the next monthly update on May 11, 2023.



An El Nino Watch (!) has been issued by @NWSCPC which means that conditions are favorable for the development of El Nino within the next 6 months. In fact, theres a 62% chance of El Nino conditions for the MayJuly period.

For more, head to the ENSO Bloghttps://t.co/lcgh1yhoCv pic.twitter.com/WH2IPY6WxI  NOAA Climate.gov (@NOAAClimate) April 13, 2023

(END) MAO/RMB

There's a 62% chance that El Nino Phenomenon will develop in the Pacific Ocean between May and July, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) said in its latest report.Published: 4/18/2023
As the UN seeks to mediate a ceasefire, opposing forces in Sudan engage in conflict within the capital.

Both of Sudans warring factions claimed to have made progress on Monday, as continued violence caused power and water cuts in the capital.

The United Nations envoy to Sudan stated that neither side showed any willingness to negotiate, with fighting between the army and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) resulting in the death of at least 185 people and injuries to over 1,800.

The deadly power struggle between the army and RSF has halted the shift towards civilian rule and raised the threat of a wider conflict.

The two sides shared power during a challenging political transition after veteran leader Omar Bashirs 2019 ousting.

The RSF was due to merge with the army under an internationally supported transition plan. Egypt and the United Arab Emirates were working on a ceasefire proposal forSudan.

The European Union said its envoy toSudanwas assaulted in his own residence on Monday.

UN chief Antonio Guterres and aid chief Martin Griffiths called for a return to calm, emphasizing the catastrophic impact the situation has on an already precarious humanitarian situation.
Sudanese in the capital Khartoum and other cities are confined to their homes due to ongoing explosions and gunfire outside.

The army and a powerful rival force are in a battle for control of the country. According to the U.N. envoy Volker Perthes, at least 185 people have been killed and over 1,800 wounded since the fighting started.

The two sides are using heavy weapons such as tanks and artillery in densely populated areas. The death toll could be higher since there are many bodies in the streets that nobody can reach due to the ongoing clashes.

Amidst the violence, diplomats from different continents are attempting to negotiate a truce, and the U.N. Security Council is set to discuss the crisis as a matter of urgency. Millions of people are trapped in their homes or wherever they can find shelter, with supplies running low in many areas.

A neighbors house was hit by a shell on Sunday, and at least three people have been killed. Hospitals in Khartoum have been shut down because of damage from fighting, nearby clashes, or because they ran low on fuel.

Fierce fighting with artillery and other heavy weapons raged on Monday around central Khartoum and Omdurman.

The power struggle is between Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan and Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, who each has tens of thousands of heavily armed fighters backing them. Both generals played a joint role in orchestrating the October 2021 military coup.

The violence has raised fears of a civil war, and it coincides with the Eid al-Fitr holiday, marking the end of Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting.

The U.S., the U.N., and others have called for a truce to be declared. Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates have also called for both sides to stand down.

Save the Children, a charity, has temporarily suspended most of its operations across Sudan, while looters have raided their offices in Darfur, stealing medical supplies, laptops, vehicles, and a refrigerator.

The World Food Program suspended operations after three employees were killed in Darfur, and the International Rescue Committee has also halted most operations.

The U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is consulting with leaders in the region, urging anyone with influence to press for peace.
Conflicting factions in Sudan reach a 24-hour agreement on ceasefire as the battle continues into its fourth day.

According to reports from Arab media, the Sudanese army and rival forces, who have been engaged in battle since the weekend, have agreed to a temporary 24-hour ceasefire.

The ongoing conflict has resulted in chaos across Khartoum and other parts of the country, with millions of civilians forced to stay indoors amidst the crossfire.

The top military officer Shams El Din Kabbashi confirmed that the military would respect the ceasefire.

This comes after a U.S. Embassy convoy was attacked, raising concerns of further violence. Clashes between the rival forces have so far caused over 185 deaths and 1,800 injuries, with the toll expected to rise further.

The violence has also resulted in the looting of shops and homes, assaults on diplomats residences, and the destruction of security service buildings and military aircraft.
Revealed: Findings from journalist Rafael Morenos investigations uncovered after his assassination in Colombia.

Rafael Moreno, a Colombian journalist, was assassinated on October 16th for his investigative work that uncovered corruption, including embezzlement in public contracts and illegal resource extraction.

A team of journalists, including Jowhar, came together to form The Rafael Project to complete his work and ensure that his stories remain alive.

Moreno, who worked as the director of online news outlet Voces de Cordoba, regularly exposed corruption, embezzlement, and the activities of illegal armed groups in the violent and marginalized parts of northern Colombias Cordoba department.

A month prior to his death, Moreno accused the Colombian government of withdrawing his protection, which had been provided to him after receiving threats related to his work.

He was investigating the installation of a mine on property belonging to a senator, where resources were being extracted for public construction projects, when he was killed.

A few days before his death, Moreno contacted Forbidden Stories, an international consortium of investigative journalists, and offered to protect the work of colleagues under threat.

He informed the group that he wanted his investigations to be pursued and published worldwide if anything happened to him. For the first time, Forbidden Stories pursued the work of a journalist following their murder.

A group of 30 reporters co-ordinated by Forbidden Stories has taken over Morenos investigations for the last six months.

Journalists from and its sister service, Radio France International, examined hundreds of documents and emails not made public by Moreno, uncovering a system of widespread clientelism and endemic corruption.

On April 18th at 6:00 pm Paris time (GMT+2), will broadcast the results of the investigation, along with 31 other media outlets.

The Rafael Project sends a clear message to killers of journalists in Colombia and elsewhere that killing a journalist wont kill the story.
Tunisian police on Monday detained Ennahda party leader Rached Ghannouchi, his party said, in a move that marks an escalation in a campaign of arrests that has already targeted numerous high-profile opponents of President Kais Saied.

The police raided Ghannouchis house on Monday evening, searching it before taking him to what the Islamist Ennahda called an unknown destination.

Police have this year detained leading political figures in Tunisia who accuse Saied of a coup for his moves to close the elected parliament in 2021 and move to rule by decree before rewriting the constitution.

The earlier arrests, that have led to charges of conspiring against state security, have drawn statements of concern from the U.S. and from rights groups.

A senior police official said Ghannouchi had been brought in for questioning and his house searched on the orders of the public prosecutor investigating inciting statements. A decision on next steps was with the prosecutor, the official said.

Ghannouchi had already faced repeated rounds of judicial questioning over the past year on charges relating to Ennahdas finances and to allegations it helped Islamists travel to Syria for jihad, charges he and the party both deny.

The 81-year-old was a political prisoner in the 1980s and went into exile in the 1990s before returning during Tunisias 2011 revolution that brought democracy.

Under his leadership Ennahda moved towards the political centre, joining successive governing coalitions with secular parties and he became parliament speaker after the 2019 election.

Since Saieds seizure of broad powers, which the president says was needed to save Tunisia from years of crisis, Ghannouchi has been the biggest political party leader to oppose him.

(Reuters)
Sustainability Times )  News of an accelerating sea level rise along the Gulf Coast of the United States has renewed attention on climate migration , and the degree to which people in the U.S. have begun to retreat from climate challenges due to flooding, wildfire and other impacts.

The new study, led by Sonke Dangendorf of Tulane University, reports rates of sea level rise in some Gulf locations that are unprecedented in at least 120 years. The paper, published Monday in the journal Nature, found rapid sea level rise rates affecting parts of the southeast U.S. coast as well, such as Cape Hatteras. It warns that rapid sea level rise can threaten the national security of the U.S. and hamper timely adaptation measures.



Photo of Ft. Lauderdale by Daniel Halseth on Unsplash

But in some places, sea level rise is already driving migration, as noted by Grist reporter Jake Bittle, whose book The Great Displacement: Climate Change and the Next American Migration was the topic of a recent conversation hosted by the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.

Bittles book recounts the perils of families living in the Florida Keys when Hurricane Irma took aim at their homes, or those displaced when California wildfires burned through neighborhoods. It includes historically marginalized communities affected by inland flooding who relocated after disaster struck.

Climate change is already driving migration today, even in prosperous countries like the United States, the Carnegie organization noted. We see it reported regularly in the news: American homes swept away by record-breaking storms and surging seas or burned to ash by uncontrollable wildfires.

In the U.S., as with Europe, differing views on migration typically centered on foreigners seeking entry at the borders. But U.S. climate migrants increasingly are citizens themselves, like those participating in the Blue Acres Buyout Program in New Jersey. By 2019, the program had spent approximately $190 million to acquire more than 700 properties and demolish 665 homes after Sandy swept through and left billions in damage.

Similar stories come from places like Isle de Jean Charles in Louisiana, where rising seas have already claimed much of the community, and Broadwater, Virginia, which is essentially gone after its residents retreated from the rising Atlantic Ocean and formed a new community on the mainland. Now it, too, is threatened by sea level rise.

In northern parts of the U.S., cities long overlooked because of their cold climates or obsolete industries are planning for an influx of climate migrants who are their fellow American citizens. Thats the case in Duluth, Minnesota, an icy port town once known for its Great Lakes steel factories thats now a destination for people retreating from Californias drought or Colorados wildfires.

Places like Duluth welcome the possibility of expansion due to climate migration, but some studies show that cities seeking to absorb climate migrants will have to plan carefully when it comes to housing, water and other resources.

[We] already have a community that isnt working for everyone, said one participant in a University of Minnesota study on Duluth climate migrants. Unless there is great intentionality in the way we handle growth, it could make problems so much worse.

Meanwhile, the heat keeps rising, the seas keep creeping up on coastal communities, and wildfires drive families from places like Oregon in the Pacific Northwest to new homes in the towns of New England. There are no hard numbers on U.S. climate migrants, but at least a third of new residents to Vermont said climate was a factor, according to a 2022 Yale School of the Environment report.

We left (California) in 2020 after getting tired of being evacuated in the middle of the night by a policeman saying, Pack your cars, take your dogs, dont pick up anything, just go, Roy Parvin told Jon Hurdle for Yale.

His family now lives in North Carolina.

Via Sustainability Times

Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 SA International license
The remarkable pace by which the term apartheid has moved from the margins of the Israeli-Palestinian debate to its centre was on powerful display this weekend. The prestigious American magazine, Foreign Affairs, widely considered one of most influential foreign policy magazines shaping Washingtons thinking, added its weight behind the claim that Israel has imposed an apartheid regime that systematically discriminates against non-Jews.

In an article titled Israels One-State Reality authors Michael Barnett, Nathan Brown, Marc Lynch and Shibley Telhami, highlight the seismic shift that is underway in leading policy circles today. Describing the situation in Palestine and how Israel arrived at the point where it is practicing apartheid, they say that what was once unsayable is now undeniable.

A one-state arrangement is not a future possibility; it already exists, no matter what anyone thinks, the authors who are all professors on the Middle East, say. Between the Mediterranean Sea and the Jordan River, one state controls the entry and exit of people and goods, oversees security and has the capacity to impose its decisions, laws, and policies on millions of people without their consent.

Israel, argue the authors, has locked in a system of Jewish supremacy, wherein non-Jews are structurally discriminated against or excluded in a tiered scheme: some non-Jews have most of, but not all, the rights that Jews have, while most non-Jews live under severe segregation, separation and domination. Tellingly, they claim that this reality has been obvious to anyone who has paid attention. For various reasons, Washington and supporters of Israel have preferred to stick their head in the sand and smear anyone who points to the truth of Israels apartheid system as anti-Semetic. Until recently, the one-state reality was rarely acknowledged by important actors, and those who spoke the truth out loud were ignored or punished for doing so, the article pointed out. With remarkable speed, however, the unsayable has become close to conventional wisdom.

Anyone following the debate on Israels practice of apartheid closely will be familiar with many of the points highlighted by the authors. Since 2021, Major human rights organisations, including Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, BTselem and many more have applied the term to describe Israel. As have many academics: according to a recent poll of Middle Eastfocused scholars who are members of three large academic associations, 65 per cent of respondents described the situation in Israel and the Palestinian Territories as a one-state reality with inequality akin to apartheid.

Beyond repeating well-known facts about how Israel has created a regime of Jewish supremacy, the Foreign Affairs article is unique for emphasising the culpability of Washington and other foreign powers in enabling the creation of an apartheid regime. Israels major allies, the authors argue, are guilty of magical thinking. For decades, the US, more than most, has defended its support of Israel on wishful thinking, believing that Israel shares the same values as the West. The United States does not have shared values and should not have unbreakable bonds with a state that discriminates against or abuses millions of its residents based on their ethnicity and religion. It is difficult to square a commitment to liberalism, say the authors, with support for a single state that offers the benefits of democracy to Jews but explicitly withholds them from the majority of its non-Jewish inhabitants.

While it has become fashionable to blame Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for Israels shift towards apartheid, it is argued that the current reality, preserving Jewish supremacy in historic Palestine, has strong grounding in Zionist thought and practice. It began gaining adherents soon after Israel occupied the Palestinian Territories in 1967. The authors claim that, although it is not yet a hegemonic view, it can plausibly be described as a majority of Israeli society and can no longer be termed a fringe position. It is worth bearing in mind that Netanyahu, who is Israels longest serving Prime Minister, has written that Israel is not a state of all its citizens but rather of the Jewish peopleand only it. The Likud leader has also been accused of erasing Palestinians and their history, a fact which members of his current coalition openly endorse.



Photo by Patrick Perkins on Unsplash

Advocates of Israel who reject the one state reality are urged to put on new glasses, for them to be able to see apartheid for what it is. Israels allies are used to seeing a distinction between the Occupied Territories and Israel proper, and think Israels sovereignty is limited to the territory it controlled before 1967. In making this point, the authors are arguing that the state and sovereignty are not the same. The state is defined by what it controls, whereas sovereignty depends on other states recognising the legality of that control. The mistake is to confuse the two without realising that Israel as a state controls every inch of Palestine, even though under the eyes of the international community, the occupations state has no claim to sovereignty over the territory.

Consider Israel through the lens of a state. It has control over a territory that stretches from the river to the sea, has a near monopoly on the use of force, and uses this power to sustain a draconian blockade of Gaza and control the West Bank with a system of checkpoints, policing and relentlessly expanding settlements, said the authors clarifying the distinction with sovereignty. While explaining how Israel has been able to exploit the situation, the article said that By not formalising sovereignty, Israel can be democratic for its citizens but unaccountable to millions of its residents. According to the authors, this arrangement has allowed many of Israels supporters abroad to continue to pretend that all this is temporarythat Israel remains a liberal democracy and that, someday, Palestinians will exercise their right to self-determination.

As much as US policies have helped to entrench the one state reality, normalisation by Arab states under the Abraham Accords has further cemented Israels apartheid system. The traditional Arab position was that normalisation would be offered in exchange for complete Israeli withdrawal from the Occupied Territories. The baseline for negotiation was that peace with the Arab world would require a resolution of the Palestinian issue. The Abraham Accords rejected this assumption and, in turn, rewarded Israel for its settler colonial practices. Decoupling of Arab normalisation from the Palestinian issue went a long way toward entrenching the one-state reality.

In a warning to authoritarian rules in the Middle East, the authors powerfully explain that the Palestinian issue resonates strongly with the Arab population. Arab rulers might not care about the Palestinians, but their people doand those rulers care about nothing more than keeping their thrones. Fully abandoning the Palestinians after more than half a century of at least rhetorical support would pose a risk to their authority. Arab leaders do not fear losing elections, but they remember the Arab uprisings of 2011 all too well, said the authors arguing that abandoning the Palestinian cause has the potential to trigger a popular revolt.

Policymakers and analysts who ignore the one-state reality will be condemned to failure and irrelevance, doing little beyond providing a smokescreen for the entrenchment of the status quo, said the authors before listing practical steps that need to be taken. To end Washingtons deep complicity in creating the one-state reality, the US is urged to take radical measures, including imposing sanctions on Israel and, above all, for the West to look at its response to Russias invasion of Ukraine as a model for defending international law and the rules based system they claims to uphold.

The views expressed in this article belong to the author and do not necessarily reflect the editorial policy of Middle East Monitor or Informed Comment.
YEREVAN, Armenia  Since its inception, education has always been one of the core values of the H. Hovnanian Family Foundation. For over a decade, the Foundation has supported Armenian and non-Armenian recipients with educational scholarships to attain a quality education at both institutions of higher learning in Armenia as well as in the United States.

As part of its scholarship program, the Foundation created an endowment fund at Villanova University, named after the late Hirair Hovnanian, a Villanova alumnus (56 COE), and the founder of The H. Hovnanian Family Foundation. The creation of the Hovnanian Scholarship fund was Mr. Hovnanians way of paying it forward for others to have the same opportunity he was given to get a top-notch education that helped propel his success as a master builder and entrepreneur.

At just over $3 million total, the endowment allows undergraduate students of Armenian descent, who gain acceptance to Villanova University on a full-time basis, to apply for a scholarship. Returning undergraduates are considered for scholarship renewal based on academic performance and financial need. Applicants are evaluated based on their academic achievements, leadership skills, college testing scores, as well as financial need. Recipients of a Hovnanian Scholarship can use the awarded funds to cover eligible expenses such as tuition, room and board. For the school year 2022-2023, a total of 22 scholarships amounting to $128,558 were awarded, of which 16 were for students of Armenian descent.

The Armenian Students Organization at Villanova is thriving, now 25 students strong. Isabella Balian, 20, from Winchester, MA, is a Hovnanian scholarship recipient. The class of 2025 student notes, My grandfather escaped the Armenian Genocide as a child and migrated to Lebanon where he started his family. From Lebanon, my dad and his family immigrated to America at age six. I have always held strong to the values of faith and perseverance of my ancestors, and at Villanova I hope to continue spreading the Armenian culture and hope that their generation so boldly established. Isabella stays true to her words by taking on a leadership role within the Armenian Students Association on campus, which is doing incredible work educating Villanovans on issues important to Armenians and the Republic of Armenia.

Soon to be in the graduating class of 2024 is Michael Stamboulian, 21, from Robbinsville, NJ, is thankful for the assistance the scholarship afforded to him. I am 100% Armenian, and my family and I take immense pride of our ethnicity. I love sharing my identity and Armenian history with others. The Hovnanian family scholarship program at Villanova University is a testament to the loving nature and sense of community that exists with Armenians. Two of the things that make Villanova most attractive to me are the high-quality academics and the strong community. Like Armenians, Villanovans possess a powerful sense of community. I am proud to be an Armenian Villanovan!

In addition to the annual scholarships provided to Villanova students, the Foundation donated $10 million to Villanova University in the spring of 2022 to support several significant academic initiatives, including the continued modernization of Falvey Library. In recognition of this gift, a building on campus in Villanovas newest residences, known as The Commons, is now named Hovnanian Hall.

Since the Foundations establishment in 1986, H. Hovnanian Family Foundation has earmarked over $75 million to hundreds of initiatives and projects for charitable, educational, scientific, cultural, and other related purposes with a primary focus on assisting Armenian communities worldwide as well as organizations in Monmouth and Ocean Counties in the state of New Jersey
Highlights

Assay results from 16 drillholes continue to confirm high-grade near-surface mineralization

Nine drillholes with intersections of higher-grade (above 1% nickel) mineralization

Hole TEX23-26 intersected 3 metres of 1.47% nickel within 13.5 metres of 0.82% nickel within 52.5 metres of 0.5% nickel

Hole TEX23-19 intersected 7 metres of 1.03% nickel within 40.0 metres of 0.69% nickel

High grade mineralization intersected in northern lens 470 metres from original high grade lens in the south area

Hole TXT23-32 intersected 10.5 metres of 0.95% nickel within 43.5 metres of 0.59% nickel within 292 metres of 0.31% nickel

TORONTO, April 18, 2023 /CNW/ - Canada Nickel Company Inc. ("Canada Nickel" or the "Company") (TSXV: CNC) (OTCQX: CNIKF) today announced assay results that indicate an expansion of high grade, near-surface nickel mineralization at the Texmont property located 36 kilometres south of Timmins, Ontario.

This release contains assay results from 16 additional holes with assays pending from eleven holes. The Company has drilled 39 holes totaling 9,696 metres as part of an exploration program to support the development of a resource. The mineralization has been drilled over a footprint of 1 kilometre along strike to a maximum depth of 444 metres where it remains open (Figures 1 and 2).

Mark Selby, CEO of Canada Nickel Company, said, "The latest assay results continue to confirm our thesis of near-surface high grade intervals within thick mineralized sections which support the potential for near-term, smaller scale, open pit production. Of particular note, we are excited by the near-surface higher grade interval in hole TEX23-32 in the northern lens which is nearly half a kilometre from the southern high-grade lens. We have now planned additional drilling at the northern lens. We are looking forward to delivering an initial resource and Preliminary Economic Analysis ("PEA") on Texmont this year as its near-term production potential is highly complementary to our large-scale Crawford and regional nickel sulphide project potential."

Current Drill Results

All 39 drillholes intersected mineralized peridotite to varying degrees, with the drill program confirming Canada Nickel's interpretation of the Texmont deposit, as displaying zoning in its mineralization, with a higher-grade core >1.0% ranging between 2 to 8 metres thickness (and being the main target of previous mining), grading into an outer shell of moderate-high mineralization 0.6-1.0% of up to 20 to 30 metres in thickness and followed by further outward shells of moderate and lower grades (Table 1. Figure 3). Overburden in the area varied between 2 and 18 metres in downhole length (average 7.5 metres).

Table 1: Texmont exploration drilling results - high grade highlights

Hole ID From To Length* Ni Co Pd Pt Cr Fe S (m) (m) (m) ( %) ( %) (g/t) (g/t) ( %) ( %) ( %) TXT22-13 153.0 174.0 21.0 0.52 0.02 0.036 0.030 0.15 5.68 0.63 and 183.0 192.0 9.0 0.49 0.02 0.027 0.023 0.12 5.42 0.58 Including 184 185.5 1.5 1.02 0.035 0.053 0.044 0.13 6.01 1.27 TXT23-15 85.5 104.5 19.0 0.57 0.02 0.034 0.024 0.16 6.00 0.66 including 85.5 93.5 8.0 0.88 0.03 0.061 0.041 0.17 6.55 1.00 Including 91.5 93.5 2 1.24 0.05 0.068 0.049 0.15 6.50 1.70 TXT23-16 202.5 223.5 21.0 0.48 0.02 0.035 0.023 0.13 5.57 0.59 Including 217.5 223.5 6.0 0.72 0.02 0.060 0.040 0.14 5.65 1.09 Including 219 221 2 1.03 1.03 0.03 0.094 0.060 0.13 5.82 TXT23-19 63 184 121 0.52 0.02 0.038 0.029 0.15 5.56 0.48 TXT23-19 63.0 98.7 35.7 0.70 0.02 0.060 0.045 0.14 5.27 0.70 and 144.0 184.0 40.0 0.69 0.02 0.054 0.042 0.16 5.99 0.55 Including 145.0 148.3 3.3 1.24 0.02 0.124 0.087 0.15 5.12 1.06 and 156.5 160.0 3.5 1.20 0.03 0.100 0.071 0.15 5.75 0.94 including 170.0 177.0 7.0 1.03 0.03 0.083 0.069 0.16 6.73 0.81 TXT23-21 64.5 70.5 6.0 0.90 0.02 0.082 0.072 0.15 5.65 0.42 including 64.5 69.0 4.05 1.06 0.02 0.102 0.089 0.15 5.79 0.50 TXT23-22 153.0 193.5 40.5 0.34 0.01 0.017 0.015 0.17 5.83 0.50 TXT23-25 154.5 222.0 67.5 0.58 0.02 0.043 0.034 0.16 6.44 0.83 including 156.0 164.0 8.0 0.85 0.03 0.074 0.054 0.15 7.43 1.27 including 157.5 159.0 1.5 1.02 0.031 0.092 0.064 0.14 8.03 1.8 TXT23-26 112.5 165 52.5 0.50 0.01 0.047 0.044 0.14 5.48 0.53 Including 151.5 165.0 13.5 0.82 0.02 0.125 0.079 0.15 5.53 0.94 Including 151.5 156.0 4.5 1.13 0.02 0.159 0.102 0.15 6.04 1.29 TXT23-27 74.8 78.0 3.2 0.51 0.02 0.048 0.036 0.14 5.11 0.49 TXT23-28 103.5 130.5 27.0 0.52 0.02 0.033 0.042 0.14 5.47 0.62 Including 123.0 124.5 1.5 1.29 0.038 0.147 0.046 0.13 7.02 2.01 Including 129.0 130.5 1.5 1.43 0.045 0.156 0.519 0.14 6.37 1.91 and 225.0 261.0 36.0 0.42 0.01 0.039 0.032 0.15 5.59 0.46 including 258.0 261 3 1.15 0.04 0.235 0.177 0.13 5.63 1.62 TXT23-32 63.0 106.5 43.5 0.59 0.02 0.038 0.029 0.15 5.34 0.52 including 63.0 73.5 10.5 0.95 0.02 0.071 0.047 0.14 5.08 0.79 including 63 66 3 1.22 0.01 0.130 0.077 0.14 4.90 1.00

*Specified drillhole length, note that true widths are uncertain. Initial interpretation by the Company is that the nickel mineralization is hosted in steeply dipping zones, implying true widths in the range of 70% to 95% of reported intervals

Table 2: Texmont exploration drilling results  downhole average

Hole ID From To Length* Ni Co Pd Pt Cr Fe S (m) (m) (m) ( %) ( %) (g/t) (g/t) ( %) ( %) ( %) TXT22-13 5.0 387.0 382.0 0.21 0.01 0.008 0.009 0.17 6.33 0.33 including 111.0 297.2 186.2 0.29 0.01 0.010 0.010 0.14 5.23 0.30 and 317.8 387.0 69.2 0.21 0.01 0.008 0.009 0.27 6.17 0.28 TXT23-14 47.0 129.9 82.9 0.20 0.01 0.006 0.006 0.18 5.48 0.21 TXT23-15 47.5 169.8 122.3 0.27 0.01 0.010 0.011 0.19 6.08 0.35 TXT23-16 114.5 444 329.5 0.25 0.01 0.009 0.007 0.16 5.45 0.23 including 192.0 285.0 93.0 0.30 0.01 0.016 0.011 0.15 5.37 0.28 TXT23-17 81.0 109.1 28.1 0.21 0.01 0.004 0.006 0.17 5.39 0.18 TXT23-18 40.5 109.7 69.2 0.21 0.01 0.008 0.007 0.15 4.90 0.15 and 123.0 158.0 35.0 0.19 0.01 0.007 0.006 0.18 6.09 0.56 TXT23-19 10.0 193.7 183.7 0.43 0.01 0.027 0.022 0.14 5.45 0.44 TXT23-20 84.0 243.0 159.0 0.23 0.01 0.008 0.008 0.12 5.45 0.34 TXT23-21 51.3 135.7 84.4 0.28 0.01 0.014 0.014 0.14 5.39 0.19 and 148.1 163.5 15.4 0.26 0.01 0.016 0.015 0.12 4.59 0.25 TXT23-22 12.0 260.8 248.8 0.26 0.01 0.011 0.009 0.16 5.44 0.24 TXT23-23 37.6 219.5 181.9 0.24 0.01 0.009 0.008 0.14 5.38 0.10 including 82.5 120.0 37.5 0.30 0.01 0.012 0.009 0.15 5.03 0.12 TXT23-25 3.0 311.8 308.8 0.24 0.01 0.013 0.013 0.13 6.19 0.35 including 125.0 240.0 115.0 0.44 0.01 0.029 0.024 0.15 5.84 0.58 TXT23-26 5.0 240.0 235.0 0.29 0.01 0.015 0.016 0.15 5.42 0.31 including 52.5 165.0 102.5 0.37 0.01 0.026 0.026 0.15 5.54 0.42 TXT23-27 4.0 124.6 120.6 0.21 0.01 0.007 0.010 0.12 5.70 0.29 and 191.2 231.0 39.8 0.20 0.01 0.007 0.014 0.19 5.88 0.14 TXT23-28 14.4 174.1 159.7 0.30 0.01 0.009 0.014 0.13 4.95 0.31 and 222.6 291.0 68.4 0.33 0.01 0.022 0.021 0.15 5.52 0.32 TXT23-32 8.2 300.0 291.8 0.31 0.01 0.016 0.015 0.15 5.11 0.27

*Specified drillhole length, note that true widths are uncertain. Initial interpretation by the Company is that the nickel mineralization is hosted in steeply dipping zones, implying true widths in the range of 70% to 95% of reported intervals

Table 3: Texmont Drillhole Orientation

Hole ID Easting (mE) Northing (mN) Azimuth () Dip () Length (m) TXT23-13 484830 5334318 270 -82 387 TXT23-14 484790 5334263 270 -45 162 TXT23-15 484790 5334263 270 -65 180 TXT23-16 484790 5334263 270 -90 444 TXT23-17 484789 5334319 270 -45 171 TXT23-18 484799 5334365 270 -45 201 TXT23-19 484790 5334568 90 -48 201 TXT23-20 484790 5334568 90 -86 243 TXT23-21 484925 5334636 270 -57 234 TXT23-22 484893 5334663 270 -70 264 TXT23-23 484905 5334714 270 -52 246 TXT23-25 484720 5334400 90 -58 351 TXT23-26 484768 5334491 90 -55 240 TXT23-27 484755 5334450 90 -55 231 TXT23-28 484798 5334471 90 -70 291 TXT23-32 484915 5335188 265 -65 300



TXT23-13 was collared in komatiite, and intersected a thick sequence of mineralized peridotite, with minor dykes encountered near surface. The hole averaged 0.21% nickel over 382.0 metres, including a higher-grade section of 0.52% nickel over 21.0 metres (see Table 1 for higher grade composites, and Table 2 for entire mineralized composites).

TXT23-14 was collared 70 metres southwest of TXT23-13 and intersected weakly mineralized komatiite 4.7 metres below surface, intersecting mineralized peridotite for a length of 82.9 metres until encountering volcanics at the lower contact. The peridotite section averaged 0.20% nickel.

TXTX23-15 was collared in the same setup as TXT23-14 drilling steeper, intersected komatiite followed by well mineralized peridotite for 122.3 metres. The hole averaged 0.27% nickel, including 0.88% nickel and 0.10g/t Pt+Pd over 8.0 metres.

TXT23-16 was collared on komatiite at 3 metres followed by well mineralized peridotite to end of hole. The mineralized peridotite averaged 0.25% nickel over 329.5 metres, including 0.48% nickel over 21.0 metres.

TXT23-17 was collared in hanging wall mafic intrusive and followed a succession of komatiite and mafic volcanics before intersecting mineralized peridotite at 81 metres. The hole intersected 28.1 metres of peridotite averaging 0.21% nickel.

TXT23-18 was drilled 55 metres northwest of TXT23-13 in komatiite and intersected mineralized peridotite, interrupted by a section of metasediments. The top peridotite averaged 0.21% nickel over 69.2 metres, while the bottom peridotite averaged 0.19% nickel over 35.0 metres.

TEX23-19 was collared 55 metres northwest of the shaft, intersecting well mineralized peridotite at 10 metres below surface, interrupted by minor diabase dykes. The hole averaged 0.43% nickel over 183.7 metres including 0.69% nickel over 40.0 metres and 1.03% nickel over 7.0 metres.

TXT23-20 was collared and ended in mineralized peridotite. The bottom of the hole averaged 0.23% nickel over 159.0 metres including 0.31% nickel over 100.2 metres. Top of hole assays are still pending.

TXT23-21 was collared in komatiite with minor dykes, followed by mineralized peridotite. The top peridotite averaged 0.28% nickel over 84.4 metres, including 0.90% nickel over 6.0 metres and 0.35% nickel over 49.3 metres. The bottom peridotite averaged 0.26% nickel over 15.4 metres.

TXT23-22 was collared in mineralized peridotite at 12 metres below surface. The hole averaged 0.26% nickel over 248.8 metres including 0.34% nickel over 40.5 metres.

TXT23-23 was collared approximately 220 metres northeast of the shaft. The hole intersected 0.24% nickel over 181.9 metres, including 0.30% nickel over 37.5 metres.

TXT23-24 was collared at the hanging wall mafic volcanics and intersected well mineralized peridotite starting at 13.8 metres. The hole has 0.71% nickel over 21.0 metres. Top and bottom of hole assays are still pending.

TXT23-25 was collared on komatiite at 3 metres followed by diabase and a well mineralized peridotite to end of hole. The hole averaged 0.24% nickel over 308.8 metres, including a section of well mineralized peridotite averaging 0.58% nickel over 64.8 metres, including 0.85% nickel over 8.0 metres.

TXT23-26 was collared in mineralized peridotite at 5.0 metres below surface. The hole averaged 0.29% nickel over 235.0 metres including 0.50% nickel over 52.5 metres.

TXT23-27 collared on peridotite at 4 metres below surface and ended in peridotite except for a gabbro section near the bottom of the hole. The top peridotite averaged 0.21% nickel over 120.6 metres, while the bottom peridotite averaged 0.20% nickel over 39.8 metres.

TXT23-28 collared in mafic volcanics at 5.5 metres, followed by well mineralized peridotite starting at 14.4 metres. This section of the peridotite averaged 0.30% nickel over 159.7 metres and included a section of 0.52% nickel over 27.0 metres. The hole is interrupted by a section of a later intrusion but continues on well mineralized peridotite averaging 0.33% nickel over 68.4 metres and includes 0.42% nickel over 36.0 metres.

TXT23-32 is collared in the north zone approximately 650 metres from the shaft. The hole starts on komatiite and remains in mineralized peridotite to the end of the hole. The hole averaged 0.31% nickel over 291.8 metres and includes 0.59% nickel over 43.5 metres with 10.5 metres of 0.95% nickel.

Share Issuances

Canada Nickel also announces that it has agreed to issue 43,924 common shares of the Company ("Common Shares") in satisfaction of $60,000 due to a service provider for advisory services provided to the Company. In addition, the Company has entered into an agreement to acquire a 100% interest in certain mining claims located in the Timmins, Ontario nickel-sulphide mining district in exchange for 54,000 Common Shares. Canada Nickel has also entered into an agreement with the holder of certain expired mining claims located in the area under which the Company has been provided with the right to re-stake these claims in exchange for consideration of 10,000 Common Shares. Each of the foregoing issuances of Common Shares are subject to the prior approval of the TSX Venture Exchange and will be subject to a four-month hold period under Canadian securities laws.

Assays, Quality Assurance/Quality Control and Drilling and Assay

Edwin Escarraga, MSc, P.Geo., a "qualified person" as defined by National Instrument 43-101, is responsible for the on-going drilling and sampling program, including quality assurance (QA) and quality control (QC). The core is collected from the drill in sealed core trays and transported to the core logging facility. The core is marked and sampled at 1.5 metre lengths and cut with a diamond blade saw. One set of samples is transported in secured bags directly from the Canada Nickel core shack to Actlabs Timmins, while a second set of samples is securely shipped to SGS Lakefield for preparation, with analysis performed at SGS Burnaby or SGS Callao (Peru). All are ISO/IEC 17025 accredited labs. Analysis for precious metals (gold, platinum, and palladium) are completed by Fire Assay while analysis for nickel, cobalt, sulphur and other elements are performed using a peroxide fusion and ICP-OES analysis. Certified standards and blanks are inserted at a rate of 3 QA/QC samples per 20 core samples making a batch of 60 samples that are submitted for analysis.

Qualified Person and Data Verification

Stephen J. Balch P.Geo. (ON), VP Exploration of Canada Nickel and a "qualified person" as is defined by National Instrument 43-101, has verified the data disclosed in this news release, and has otherwise reviewed and approved the technical information in this news release on behalf of Canada Nickel Company Inc.

The magnetic images shown in this press release were created from Canada Nickel's interpretation of datasets provided by the Ontario Geological Survey.

About Canada Nickel Company

Canada Nickel Company Inc. is advancing the next generation of nickel-sulphide projects to deliver nickel required to feed the high growth electric vehicle and stainless-steel markets. Canada Nickel Company has applied in multiple jurisdictions to trademark the terms NetZero NickelTM, NetZero CobaltTM, NetZero IronTM and is pursuing the development of processes to allow the production of net zero carbon nickel, cobalt, and iron products. Canada Nickel provides investors with leverage to nickel in low political risk jurisdictions. Canada Nickel is currently anchored by its 100% owned flagship Crawford Nickel-Cobalt Sulphide Project in the heart of the prolific Timmins-Cochrane mining camp. For more information, please visit www.canadanickel.com.

For further information, please contact:

Mark Selby

CEO

Phone: 647-256-1954

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains certain information that may constitute "forward-looking information" under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward looking information includes, but is not limited to, the carbon capture approach could allow production of Net Zero nickel and generation of an additional tonnes of CO2 credits per tonne of nickel produced after offsetting all emissions, the potential to turn nickel mine into a generator of carbon credits rather than generator of carbon emissions, the production of estimated average of 710,000 tonnes of carbon credits annually and 18 million total tonnes of CO2 of credits over expected life of mine at Crawford, the ability to monetize carbon credits, the ability to quantify carbon capture, emission estimates, the brucite content of the deposit, the scalability of the process, the metallurgical results, the timing and results of the feasibility study including the viability of the inclusion of the IPT Carbonation Process and related facilities as part of the project, the results of Crawford's PEA, including statements relating to net present value, future production, estimates of cash cost, proposed mining plans and methods, mine life estimates, cash flow forecasts, metal recoveries, estimates of capital and operating costs, timing for permitting and environmental assessments, realization of mineral resource estimates, capital and operating cost estimates, project and life of mine estimates, ability to obtain permitting by the time targeted, size and ranking of project upon achieving production, 5 economic return estimates, the timing and amount of estimated future production and capital, operating and exploration expenditures and potential upside and alternatives. Readers should not place undue reliance on 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 Canada Nickel to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. The PEA results are estimates only and are based on a number of assumptions, any of which, if incorrect, could materially change the projected outcome. There are no assurances that Crawford will be placed into production. Factors that could affect the outcome include, among others: the actual results of development activities; project delays; inability to raise the funds necessary to complete development; general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; future prices of metals or project costs could differ substantially and make any commercialization uneconomic; availability of alternative nickel sources or substitutes; actual nickel recovery; conclusions of economic evaluations; changes in applicable laws; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; accidents, labour disputes, the availability and productivity of skilled labour and other risks of the mining industry; political instability, terrorism, insurrection or war; delays in obtaining governmental approvals, necessary permitting or in the completion of development or construction activities; mineral resource estimates relating to Crawford could prove to be inaccurate for any reason whatsoever; additional but currently unforeseen work may be required to advance to the feasibility stage; and even if Crawford goes into production, there is no assurance that operations will be profitable. Although Canada Nickel has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended. Forward-looking statements contained herein are made as of the date of this news release and Canada Nickel disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia / Apr 18, 2023 / Business Wire / New Found Gold Corp. (New Found or the Company) (TSX-V: NFG, NYSE-A: NFGC) is pleased to announce the results from 25 diamond drill holes that were completed as part of a drill program designed to expand on both the newly discovered Keats West zone, a low-angle thrust fault that dips gently to the south-southwest and located on the west side of the highly prospective Appleton Fault Zone (AFZ) and from Keats North. New Founds 100%-owned Queensway project comprises a 1,662km2 area, accessible via the Trans-Canada Highway, 15km west of Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador.

Keats West and Keats North Highlights:

Hole No. From (m) To (m) Interval (m)1 Au (g/t) Zone NFGC-22-852 161.95 164.45 2.50 16.00 Keats N Including 162.90 163.45 0.55 69.10 And 171.50 173.65 2.15 10.76 Including 172.50 173.05 0.55 40.50 NFGC-22-880 173.75 175.85 2.10 14.43 Keats N Including 174.50 174.95 0.45 64.00 NFGC-22-901 181.65 184.30 2.65 18.17 Keats N Including 182.80 183.20 0.40 98.70 NFGC-22-946 94.85 97.00 2.15 13.12 Keats FW Including 95.40 96.40 1.00 27.80 NFGC-22-911 56.00 87.55 31.55 4.27 Keats W Including 60.70 62.10 1.40 14.66 Including 86.00 87.55 1.55 31.06 NFGC-22-935 105.90 123.50 17.60 2.07 Keats W Including 114.45 114.85 0.40 10.60 NFGC-22-996 39.40 64.00 24.60 1.28 Keats W NFGC-22-1049A 66.40 77.35 10.95 1.40 Keats W And 95.00 107.20 12.20 1.10 NFGC-23-1108 94.00 98.65 4.65 8.42 Keats W Including 95.00 96.45 1.45 12.47 Including 98.00 98.65 0.65 12.60

Table 1: Keats West and Keats North Drilling Highlights

1Note at Keats West, host structures are interpreted to be shallowly dipping and true widths are generally estimated to be 60% to 95% of reported intervals. At Keats North, true widths are unknown at this time. At Keats FW host structures are interpreted to be steeply dipping and true widths are generally estimated to be 40% to 55% of reported intervals. Infill veining in secondary structures with multiple orientations crosscutting the primary host structures are commonly observed in drill core which could result in additional uncertainty in true width. Composite intervals reported carry a minimum weighted average of 1 g/t Au diluted over a minimum core length of 2m with a maximum of 4m consecutive dilution. Included high-grade intercepts are reported as any consecutive interval with grades greater than 10 g/t Au. Grades have not been capped in the averaging and intervals are reported as drill thickness.

Step-out drilling has increased the strike length at Keats West to 250m. The mineralized footprint of Keats West now spans 250m wide x 305m down dip, averaging approximately 30m thick .

. Infill drilling at Keats West continues to demonstrate excellent continuity of the gold mineralization over broad thicknesses with highlight intervals of 4.27 g/t Au over 31.55m in NFGC-22-911, 8.42 g/t Au over 4.65m in NFGC-23-1108 and 2.07 g/t Au over 17.60m in NFGC-22-935 (Figures 1  3).

in NFGC-22-911, in NFGC-23-1108 and in NFGC-22-935 (Figures 1  3). At Keats North, drilling continues to intercept high-grade gold mineralization throughout this extensive network of veins and structure with highlight results of 16.0 g/t Au over 2.50m and 10.8 g/t Au over 2.15m in NFGC-22-852, 18.2 g/t Au over 2.65m in NFGC-22-901 and 14.4 g/t Au over 2.10m in NFGC-22-880. As shown in Figure 3, Keats North is located between Keats West and Iceberg adjacent to the AFZ; this domain is considered prime territory for making additional high-grade gold discoveries.

Melissa Render, VP of Exploration for New Found, stated: Keats West ranks high amongst the many discoveries made to date at Queensway. It is also a very unique zone and for many reasons:

Keats West represents the first major discovery made on the west side of the AFZ. It is the only structure discovered to date with a flat-lying orientation. The consistency of mineralization contained within the host structure is comparable to that of Keats and Iceberg, and in many cases is more uniformly and broadly distributed. The low-angle orientation has allowed drilling to remain shallow, still largely focused within the top 100m.

Yet, despite its uniqueness, Keats West has also delivered two intercepts that reside on our list of top intervals ever drilled on the property including 42.6 g/t Au over 32.00m in NFGC-22-960 (released November 28, 2022) and 18.6 g/t Au over 16.00m in NFGC-22-773 (released on November 23, 2022). This reinforces that high-grade gold at Queensway can be found in a variety of structures and geological environments leading to no shortage of gold targets.

Drillhole Details

Hole No. From (m) To (m) Interval (m)1 Au (g/t) Zone NFGC-22-806 47.00 49.00 2.00 3.67 Keats N NFGC-22-813 10.30 13.00 2.70 1.97 Keats N And2 22.00 36.10 14.10 2.13 Including2 22.55 23.60 1.05 15.67 And 47.50 49.70 2.20 1.01 NFGC-22-839 168.80 171.20 2.40 1.02 Keats N And 257.00 259.40 2.40 1.65 NFGC-22-852 96.70 98.90 2.20 1.49 Keats N And 161.95 164.45 2.50 16.00 Including 162.90 163.45 0.55 69.10 And 171.50 173.65 2.15 10.76 Including 172.50 173.05 0.55 40.50 And 245.00 247.00 2.00 1.51 NFGC-22-860 191.80 194.00 2.20 1.09 Keats FW And 216.00 218.00 2.00 7.94 Including 216.60 217.30 0.70 22.20 And 363.30 367.15 3.85 3.23 NFGC-22-864 139.50 141.65 2.15 1.21 Keats N NFGC-22-880 113.65 116.15 2.50 1.01 Keats N And 173.75 175.85 2.10 14.43 Including 174.50 174.95 0.45 64.00 NFGC-22-901 52.70 54.85 2.15 1.16 Keats N And 62.00 64.25 2.25 1.07 And 181.65 184.30 2.65 18.17 Including 182.80 183.20 0.40 98.70 NFGC-22-907 90.00 92.15 2.15 1.97 Keats FW And 99.00 101.00 2.00 1.19 And 139.60 142.00 2.40 1.17 And 247.15 249.90 2.75 1.67 NFGC-22-909 No Significant Values Keats N NFGC-22-911 16.80 24.20 7.40 1.33 Keats W And 29.00 32.05 3.05 1.41 And 56.00 87.55 31.55 4.27 Including 60.70 62.10 1.40 14.66 Including 86.00 87.55 1.55 31.06 NFGC-22-921 No Significant Values Keats N NFGC-22-926 No Significant Values Keats W NFGC-22-935 11.00 13.00 2.00 1.14 Keats W And 39.60 46.00 6.40 1.36 And 63.00 65.00 2.00 1.30 And 70.60 78.00 7.40 2.11 And 86.00 90.00 4.00 2.68 And 105.90 123.50 17.60 2.07 Including 114.45 114.85 0.40 10.60 NFGC-22-936 253.85 255.85 2.00 1.59 Keats N And 315.00 317.00 2.00 1.85 NFGC-22-946 94.85 97.00 2.15 13.12 Keats FW Including 95.40 96.40 1.00 27.80 NFGC-22-961 75.90 78.15 2.25 1.57 Keats N NFGC-22-967 No Significant Values Keats FW NFGC-22-978A 24.85 32.35 7.50 2.32 Keats W And 37.10 44.75 7.65 2.33 And 51.40 54.40 3.00 3.97 And 102.55 105.20 2.65 3.36 And 126.00 136.70 10.70 1.34 And 145.10 148.65 3.55 1.05 NFGC-22-996 23.40 25.75 2.35 2.54 Keats W And 39.40 64.00 24.60 1.28 NFGC-22-1023 No Significant Values Keats N NFGC-22-1036 No Significant Values Keats N NFGC-22-1048 No Significant Values Keats N NFGC-22-1049A 66.40 77.35 10.95 1.40 Keats W And 95.00 107.20 12.20 1.10 And 123.00 129.05 6.05 1.40 NFGC-23-1108 56.00 62.30 6.30 2.39 Keats W And 82.40 84.70 2.30 1.28 And 94.00 98.65 4.65 8.42 Including 95.00 96.45 1.45 12.47 Including 98.00 98.65 0.65 12.60

Table 2: Summary of composite results reported in this press release for Keats West and Keats North

1Note at Keats West, host structures are interpreted to be shallowly dipping and true widths are generally estimated to be 60% to 95% of reported intervals. At Keats North, true widths are unknown at this time. At Keats FW host structures are interpreted to be steeply dipping and true widths are generally estimated to be 40% to 55% of reported intervals. Infill veining in secondary structures with multiple orientations crosscutting the primary host structures are commonly observed in drill core which could result in additional uncertainty in true width. Composite intervals reported carry a minimum weighted average of 1 g/t Au diluted over a minimum core length of 2m with a maximum of 4m consecutive dilution. Included high-grade intercepts are reported as any consecutive interval with grades greater than 10 g/t Au. Grades have not been capped in the averaging and intervals are reported as drill thickness.2Previously reported interval.

Hole No. Azimuth () Dip () Length (m) UTM E UTM N Prospect NFGC-22-806 300 -62 188 658233 5427802 Keats N NFGC-22-813 300 -62 158 658243 5427825 Keats N NFGC-22-839 299 -45 332 658320 5427837 Keats N NFGC-22-852 300 -45 281 658256 5427875 Keats N NFGC-22-860 119 -45 414 657811 5427655 Keats W NFGC-22-864 300 -45 503 658314 5427869 Keats N NFGC-22-880 300 -45 416 658278 5427862 Keats N NFGC-22-901 300 -45 227 658278 5427920 Keats NFGC-22-907 145 -49 318 657887 5427611 Keats W NFGC-22-909 300 -45 356 658297 5427909 Keats N NFGC-22-911 120 -45 352 657991 5428056 Keats W NFGC-22-921 300 -45 335 658321 5427895 Keats N NFGC-22-926 300 -45 191 657989 5428057 Keats W NFGC-22-935 120 -45 302 657962 5428016 Keats W NFGC-22-936 300 -45 428 658388 5428058 Keats NFGC-22-946 300 -45 176 658165 5427523 Keats NFGC-22-961 300 -45 302 658370 5428068 Keats NFGC-22-967 300 -45 329 658109 5427526 Keats NFGC-22-978A 118 -50 204 657980 5427948 Keats W NFGC-22-996 35 -45 93 658124 5427976 Keats W NFGC-22-1023 300 -45 167 658451 5427964 Keats N NFGC-22-1036 300 -45 257 658461 5427929 Keats N NFGC-22-1048 300 -45 275 658430 5427919 Keats N NFGC-22-1049A 114 -45 315 657909 5427989 Keats W NFGC-23-1108 55 -47 233 657906 5427818 Keats W

Table 3: Details of drill holes reported in this press release

Queensway 500,000m Drill Program Update

The Company is currently undertaking a 500,000m drill program at Queensway and approximately 60,600m of core is currently pending assay results.

Sampling, Sub-sampling, and Laboratory

Assays are uncut, and composite intervals are calculated using a minimum weighted average of 1 g/t Au diluted over a minimum core length of 2m with a maximum of 4m consecutive dilution. Included high-grade intercepts are reported as any consecutive interval with grades greater than 10 g/t Au.

All drilling recovers HQ core. Drill core is split in half using a diamond saw or a hydraulic splitter for rare intersections with incompetent core.

A geologist examines the drill core and marks out the intervals to be sampled and the cutting line. Sample lengths are mostly 1.0 meter and adjusted to respect lithological and/or mineralogical contacts and isolate narrow (<1.0m) veins or other structures that may yield higher grades.

Technicians saw the core along the defined cutting line. One-half of the core is kept as a witness sample and the other half is submitted for analysis. Individual sample bags are sealed and placed into totes, which are then sealed and marked with the contents.

New Found submits samples for gold determination by fire assay to ALS Canada Ltd. (ALS) and by photon assay to MSALABS (MSA) since June 2022. ALS and MSA operate under a commercial contract with New Found.

Drill core samples are shipped to ALS for sample preparation in Sudbury, Ontario, Thunder Bay, Ontario, or Moncton, New Brunswick. ALS is an ISO-17025 accredited laboratory for the fire assay method.

Drill core samples are also submitted to MSA in Val-dOr, Quebec. MSA operates numerous laboratories worldwide and maintains ISO-17025 accreditation for many metal determination methods. Accreditation of the photon assay method at the MSA Val DOr laboratory is in progress.

At ALS, the entire sample is crushed to approximately 70% passing 2mm. A 3,000-g split is pulverized. Routine samples do not have visible gold (VG) identified and are not within a mineralized zone. Routine samples are assayed for gold by 30-g fire assay with an inductively-couple plasma spectrometry (ICP) finish. If the initial 30-g fire assay gold result is over 1 g/t, the remainder of the 3,000-g split is screened at 106 microns for screened metallics assay. For the screened metallics assay, the entire coarse fraction (sized greater than 106 microns) is fire assayed and two splits of the fine fraction (sized less than 106 microns) are fire assayed. The three assays are combined on a weight-averaged basis. Samples that have VG identified or fall within a mineralized interval are automatically submitted for screened metallic assay for gold.

At MSA, the entire sample is crushed to approximately 70% passing 2mm. For routine samples that do not have VG identified and are not within a mineralized zone, the samples are riffle split to fill two 450g jars for photon assay. The assays reported from both jars are combined on a weight-averaged basis. If one of the jars assays greater than 1 g/t, the remaining crushed material is weighed into multiple jars and are submitted for photon assay.

For samples that have VG identified or are within a mineralized zone, the entire crushed sample is weighed into multiple jars and are submitted for photon assay. The assays from all jars are combined on a weight-averaged basis.

All samples prepared at ALS or MSA are also analyzed for a multi-element ICP package (ALS method code ME-ICP61) at ALS Vancouver.

Drill program design, Quality Assurance/Quality Control and interpretation of results are performed by qualified persons employing a rigorous Quality Assurance/Quality Control program consistent with industry best practices. Standards and blanks account for a minimum of 10% of the samples in addition to the laboratorys internal quality assurance programs.

Quality Control data are evaluated on receipt from the laboratories for failures. Appropriate action is taken if assay results for standards and blanks fall outside allowed tolerances. All results stated have passed New Founds quality control protocols.

New Founds quality control program also includes submission of the second half of the core for approximately 5% of the drilled intervals. In addition, approximately 1% of sample pulps for mineralized samples are submitted for re-analysis to a second ISO-accredited laboratory for check assays.

The Company does not recognize any factors of drilling, sampling or recovery that could materially affect the accuracy or reliability of the assay data disclosed.

The assay data disclosed in this news release have been verified by the Companys Qualified Person against the original assay certificates.

The Company notes that it has not completed any economic evaluations of its Queensway Project and that the Queensway Project does not have any resources or reserves.

Qualified Person

The scientific and technical information disclosed in this press release was reviewed and approved by Greg Matheson, P. Geo., Chief Operating Officer, and a Qualified Person as defined under National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Matheson consents to the publication of this press release dated April 18, 2023, by New Found. Mr. Matheson certifies that this press release fairly and accurately represents the scientific and technical information that forms the basis for this press release.

About New Found Gold Corp.

New Found holds a 100% interest in the Queensway Project, located 15km west of Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador, and just 18km from Gander International Airport. The project is intersected by the Trans-Canada Highway and has logging roads crosscutting the project, high voltage electric power lines running through the project area, and easy access to a highly skilled workforce. The Company is currently undertaking a 500,000m drill program at Queensway and is well funded for this program with cash and marketable securities of approximately $64 million as of April 2023.

Please see the Companys website at www.newfoundgold.ca and the Companys SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com.

Acknowledgements

New Found acknowledges the financial support of the Junior Exploration Assistance Program, Department of Natural Resources, Government of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Contact

To contact the Company, please visit the Companys website, www.newfoundgold.ca and make your request through our investor inquiry form. Our management has a pledge to be in touch with any investor inquiries within 24 hours.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-Looking Statement Cautions

This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation, relating to exploration, drilling and mineralization on the Companys Queensway gold project in Newfoundland and Labrador; assay results; the interpretation of drilling and assay results, the results of the drilling program, mineralization and the discovery of zones of high-grade gold mineralization; plans for future exploration and drilling and the timing of same; the merits of the Queensway project; future press releases by the Company; and funding of the drilling program. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts; they are generally, but not always, identified by the words expects, plans, anticipates, believes, interpreted, intends, estimates, projects, aims, suggests, indicate, often, target, future, likely, pending, potential, goal, objective, prospective, possibly, preliminary, and similar expressions, or that events or conditions will, would, may, can, could or should occur, or are those statements, which, by their nature, refer to future events. The Company cautions that forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made, and they involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Consequently, there can be no assurances that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Except to the extent required by applicable securities laws and the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements if management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change. Factors that could cause future results to differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements include risks associated with possible accidents and other risks associated with mineral exploration operations, the risk that the Company will encounter unanticipated geological factors, risks associated with the interpretation of assay results and the drilling program, the possibility that the Company may not be able to secure permitting and other governmental clearances necessary to carry out the Company's exploration plans, the risk that the Company will not be able to raise sufficient funds to carry out its business plans, and the risk of political uncertainties and regulatory or legal changes that might interfere with the Company's business and prospects. The reader is urged to refer to the Company's Annual Information Form and Managements discussion and Analysis, publicly available through the Canadian Securities Administrators' System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval (SEDAR) at www.sedar.com for a more complete discussion of such risk factors and their potential effects.
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Core Assets Corp., ("Core Assets" or the "Company") (CSE:CC) (FSE:5RJ) (OTCQB:CCOOF) is pleased to announce surficial assay results from the Falcon Target ("Falcon") - a historic vein-hosted gold-silver occurrence located 950m north-northeast of the Jackie CRD Target at the Silver Lime CRD-Porphyry Project ("Silver Lime"), north-central Blue Property ("Blue"); Atlin Mining District of NW British Columbia.

In 2022, prospecting and sampling located and extended the footprint of vein-hosted Ag-Au mineralization at the Falcon Target by 170 metres. Quartz veins sampled at the Falcon Extension in 2022 graded up to 19.5g/t Au, 33g/t Ag, 0.33% Pb, and 0.30% Sb (Figures 1, 2).

Historically, outcrop grab and chip sampling at Falcon identified two northwest trending quartz veins containing semi-massive arsenopyrite, stibnite, pyrite, and galena that returned an average grade of 3.67g/t Au, 2,641g/t Ag, 0.15% Cu, 2.50% Pb, 3.32% Zn, 5.78% As, and 2.56% Sb over a 2.2m channel sample1. This vein system is hosted in metasediments, was originally traced for 25 meters along strike and remains open under talus cover. To the northwest of the Falcon Target, smaller veins of similar composition hosted in quartz-feldspar porphyry breccia dykes historically graded up to 0.94g/t Au, 975g/t Ag, 1.2% Pb, and 0.9% Zn (Figure 2).

"In addition to the high-grade carbonate replacement occurrences discovered and sampled at the Silver Lime CRD-Porphyry Project, many historical and new high-grade vein-hosted occurrences were located and extended in 2022." said Core Assets' President & CEO, Nick Rodway. "Adding the presence of elevated vein-hosted gold and silver to the Silver Lime portfolio significantly increases our Property's metal endowment potential and exploration optionality. We are excited to continue to develop and test these high-grade targets in 2023."

Au-bearing semi-massive sulphide-quartz stringer veins and bleeders sampled near the Falcon Target historically assayed up to 1g/t Au and carried significant Ag grades of up to 4,870g/t, in addition to variable amounts of Pb, Zn, Cu, As, and Sb (Figure 2). Similar Ag-Au-bearing vein sets have been observed up to 7KM north-northwest of the Falcon Target, as well as in Jackie Target drill hole SLM22-004. These veins were identified and sampled by the Core Assets field team in 2021 and 2022 and graded up to 931g/t Ag with 6.75g/t Au (Figure 3).

Figure 1: Photographs of the Ag-Au-bearing quartz veins at the historic Falcon Target (Core Assets, 2022).

Figure 2: Schematic plan map of the Falcon and Jackie targets at the Silver Lime CRD-Porphyry Project showing surficial grab and channel sample locations, Au (g/t) assay highlights for new and historic1 samples (digitized) and 2022 Jackie diamond drilling highlights (stars), and local geology.

About the Falcon Ag-Au Target

The historic Falcon Zone was originally worked by Carmac Resources Ltd. in 1990. It consists of two exposed, northwest trending gold (Au) and silver (Ag)-bearing quartz veins that measure up to 1.2m wide. These veins are hosted in Florence Range limestone, metasediments, and quartz-feldspar porphyry breccia dykes, and contain visual semi-massive arsenopyrite, stibnite, pyrite, and galena. Historically a 2.2m chip sample collected from the Falcon Zone averaged 3.67g/t Au, 2,641g/t Ag, 0.15% Cu, 2.50% Pb and 3.32% Zn along with 5.78% As and 2.56% Sb.

Additionally, Au-bearing quartz-semi-massive sulphide stringer veins and bleeders are also present at the Falcon Zone and could be representative of a distal expression of the wide-spread carbonate replacement mineralization observed throughout the Silver Lime Project area. Quartz-sulphide veins typically carry significant Ag grades in addition to variable Au, As, Pb, Zn, Cu, and Sb. 1Visagie (1990). Geochemical and Geological Report on the Willison Creek Claims. ARIS report 21162

Figure 3: Schematic plan map of the Silver Lime CRD-Porphyry Project showing surficial grab and channel sample locations, Au (g/t) assay highlights for new and historic samples1, and local geology.

QA/QC and Sample Preparation

Rock samples collected from the Silver Lime CRD-Porphyry Project in 2022 were bagged, tagged, and labelled prior to being shipped by ground to ALS Preparation Facility in Whitehorse, YT where they were finely crushed and sieved to <75 microns. Samples were then shipped to ALS Geochemistry in North Vancouver, BC where they were analysed for gold by fire assay with an AA finish, over limits for Ag, Pb, Cu, Zn, and additional elements were analysed using four acid digestion with an ICP-AES finish.

National Instrument 43-101 Disclosure

Nicholas Rodway, P.Geo, (Licence# 46541) (Permit to Practice# 100359) is President, CEO and Director of the Company, and qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Rodway supervised the preparation of the technical information in this news release.

About Core Assets Corp.

Core Assets Corp. is a Canadian mineral exploration company focused on the acquisition and development of mineral projects in British Columbia, Canada. The Company currently holds 100% ownership in the Blue Property, which covers a land area of114,073.93 ha (~1,140 km). The Property lies within the Atlin Mining District, a well-known gold mining camp located in the unceded territory of the Taku River Tlingit First Nation and the Carcross/Tagish First Nation. The Blue Property hosts a major structural feature known as The Llewellyn Fault Zone ("LFZ"). This structure is approximately 140km in length and runs from the Tally-Ho Shear Zone in the Yukon, south through the Blue Property to the Alaskan Panhandle Juneau Ice Sheet in the United States. Core Assets believes that the south Atlin Lake area and the LFZ has been neglected since the last major exploration campaigns in the 1980's. The LFZ plays an important role in mineralization of near surface metal occurrences across the Blue Property. The past 50 years have seen substantial advancements in the understanding of porphyry, skarn, and carbonate replacement type deposits both globally and in BC's Golden Triangle. The Company has leveraged this information at the Blue Property to tailor an already proven exploration model and believes this could facilitate a major discovery. Core Assets is excited to become one of Atlin Mining District's premier explorers where its team believes there are substantial opportunities for new discoveries and development in the area.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors

CORE ASSETS CORP.

"Nicholas Rodway"

President & CEO

Tel: 604.681.1568

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.

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

Statements in this document which are not purely historical are forward-looking statements, including any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations, or intentions regarding the future. Forward looking statements in this news release include expectations regarding speculative inferences about potential copper, molybdenum, gold, silver, zinc, and lead grades based on preliminary visual observations from results of sampling at the Blue Property; that the Company's plans to further investigate the geometry and extent of the skarn and carbonate replacement type mineralization continuum at Silver Lime through additional field work and diamond drilling; the proposed diamond drilling program planned for Silver Lime in 2023; that drilling efforts will aim to confirm and extend certain targets and mineralization on the property; that the Company's exploration model could facilitate a major discovery at the Blue Property; that the Company anticipates it can become one of the Atlin Mining District's premier explorers and that there are substantial opportunities for new discoveries and development in this area. It is important to note that the Company's actual business outcomes and exploration results could differ materially from those in such forward-looking statements; that the Company may be unable to implement its plans to further explore the Blue Property and, in particular, that the proposed diamond drilling program planned for Silver Lime may not proceed as anticipated or at all; that drilling efforts may not confirm and extend any targets or mineralization on the Silver Lime; that the Company's exploration model may fail to facilitate any commercial discovery of minerals at the Blue Property; that the Company may not become one of Atlin Mining District's premier explorers or that the area may be found to lack opportunities for new discoveries and development, as anticipated; that further permits may not be granted in a timely manner, or at all; that the mineral claims may prove to be unworthy of further expenditure; there may not be an economic mineral resource; that certain exploration methods, including the Company's proposed exploration model for the Blue Property, may be ineffective or inadequate in the circumstances; that economic, competitive, governmental, geopolitical, environmental and technological factors may affect the Company's operations, markets, products and prices; our specific plans and timing drilling, field work and other plans may change; we may not have access to or be able to develop any minerals because of cost factors, type of terrain, or availability of equipment and technology; and we may also not raise sufficient funds to carry out or complete our plans. Additional risk factors are discussed in the section entitled "Risk Factors" in the Company's Management Discussion and Analysis for its recently completed fiscal period, which is available under the Company's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com. Except as required by law, the Company will not update or revise these forward-looking statements after the date of this document or to revise them to reflect the occurrence of future unanticipated events.
Vancouver, BC - TheNewswire - April 18, 2023 - Gold Basin Resources Corporation (the "Company" or "Gold Basin")  (TSX-V:GXX) (OTC:GXXFF) today announced the appointment of Mr. Monty Sutton as Chief Financial Officer ("CFO") and Mr. Stephen Pearce as Corporate Secretary of the Company.

"We are very pleased to welcome Monty and Stephen to the Gold Basin team," stated Colin Smith, CEO. "Together, Messrs. Sutton and Pearce bring over 60 years of experience in capital markets and corporate governance, which will be a tremendous asset to the Company as we continue to advance the Gold Basin project."

Mr. Monty Sutton  CFO

Monty Sutton brings more than 35 years of experience in public markets, corporate governance, senior administration and accounting and has served on the management teams and boards for many private and publicly traded companies. Starting on the trade floor of the Vancouver Stock Exchange in 1987, Mr. Sutton worked most of his career as an Investment Advisor, Equities Trader, and Insurance Specialist with PI Financial Corp. During this time he focused on the resource exploration industry and participated in raising over CA$100 million while managing over 1,500 client accounts. Mr. Sutton then served as CFO for Exploits Discovery Corp. and Corporate Development Manager with eCobalt Solutions as it completed a base shelf prospectus for $100-million, raising over $30-million for the development of its Idaho cobalt project. Prior to joining PI in 1997 Mr. Sutton was a Senior Management Accountant with MacMillan Bloedel.

Mr. Stephen Pearce  Corporate Secretary

Mr. Stephen Pearce has 25 years of experience in mining and law. His current focus is on corporate and securities work and past experience includes mine management and operations. He sits on several boards and is the CFO of two mineral exploration companies. Mr. Pearce received his law degree from the University of British Columbia and an Honours Bachelors Degree in economics from York University with an emphasis on corporate finance. Stephen is active in his community and serves as President of WRAGS (Western Regional Advocacy Group Society), a non-profit organization which works in partnership with Sleep Country Canada to provide free mattresses to those in our community most in need.

In connection with the appointments of Messrs. Sutton and Pearce, the Company also announces that Kevin Lynn has resigned as the CFO and Corporate Secretary of the Company. Kevin will serve as an advisor to the Company initially to ensure a smooth transition.

Colin Smith, CEO, commented: "On behalf of the Company, I would like to thank Kevin for his service as Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Secretary over the last few years. We appreciate Kevin's contributions to the growth of Gold Basin, his continued support through the transition process, and wish him all the best going forward."

ABOUT GOLD BASIN RESOURCES CORPORATION

Gold Basin Resources Corporation is engaged in the business of mineral exploration and the acquisition of mineral property assets in North America, including the Gold Basin Property located in the Gold Basin Mining District, Mohave County, Arizona, which comprises five mineral rights and 294 unpatented mining claims totalling 30.8 square kilometres. A total of 74 new unpatented claims and an Option to acquire additional claims has expanded the total land footprint to 42 square kilometres. For further information, please visit the Company's web site at: www.goldbasincorp.com.

Gold Basin is a member of Discovery Group, an alliance of public companies focused on the advancement of mineral exploration and mining projects. For more information please visit: www.discoverygroup.ca.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors

Colin Smith

Chief Executive Officer

For further information, please contact:

Michael Rapsch, VP Corporate Development

Phone: 1-604-331-5093

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS:

This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian and U.S. securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as: "believes", "expects", "anticipates", "intends", "estimates", "plans", "may", "should", "would", "will", "potential", "scheduled" or variations of such words and phrases and similar expressions, which, by their nature, refer to future events or results that may, could, would, might or will occur or be taken or achieved. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward looking information. Such risks and other factors include, among others, statements as to Kevin Lynn serving as an advisor to the Company, anticipated business plans, direction and timing of future activities of the Company, the ability of the Company to obtain sufficient financing to fund its business activities and plans, delays in obtaining governmental and regulatory approvals (including of the TSX Venture Exchange), permits or financing, changes in laws, regulations and policies affecting mining operations, currency fluctuations, title disputes or claims, environmental issues and liabilities, risks relating to epidemics or pandemics such as COVID19, including the impact of COVID19 on the Company's business, financial condition and results of operations, changes in laws, regulations and policies affecting mining operations, title disputes, the inability of the Company to obtain any necessary permits, consents, approvals or authorizations, the timing and possible outcome of any pending litigation, environmental issues and liabilities, and risks related to joint venture operations, and other risks and uncertainties disclosed in the Company's continuous disclosure documents. All of the Company's Canadian public disclosure filings may be accessed via www.sedar.com and readers are urged to review these materials.

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update any of the forward-looking statements in this news release or incorporated by reference herein, except as otherwise required by law.




Winnipeg, Manitoba--(Newsfile Corp. - April 18, 2023) - Beyond Minerals Inc. (CSE:BY) (OTCQB: BYDMF) (the "Company" or "Beyond Minerals") is pleased to announce that the Company has expanded the McKenzie Bay, Wapesi Lake and Wapesi North properties by low-cost map staking. Highlights of the expansion announced today by the Company in the Wapesi Lake area in Ontario include:

The new claims cover 227 provincial grid cells and add 5,169 additional hectares

The McKenzie Bay (6,186 hectares), Wapesi Lake (944 hectares) and Wapesi North (1,864 hectares) properties are now connected to form one contiguous property covering 14,163 hectares

The expansion covers important interpreted geological trends (granite and pegmatite fractionation trends) and possible structural controls on these interpreted trends (Wapesi Lake Fault)

"With a 14,163-hectare land position, Beyond is now the largest player in the Wapesi Lake area. This area has recently seen increased interest by resource exploration companies, including Collective Metals Inc. and Cashbox Ventures making significant acquisitions to the west of our property," said Allan Frame, President and CEO of Beyond. "This type of activity, which we are seeing in other parts of Ontario as well, seem to support our decision to focus on Ontario. This province is quickly emerging as a reliable global supplier of responsibly sourced critical minerals."

"World-class deposits of high purity, low-iron spodumene are currently being discovered and advancing toward production. We are confident more of these deposits remain to be discovered here. While other jurisdictions such as Quebec have seen success from a geological standpoint, we feel the economics of transactions being done in Ontario are more compelling and conducive to creating shareholder value."

Mr. Frame concluded: "It is also important to note that this expansion of our footprint in the Wapesi Lake area is consistent with our corporate strategy of acquiring properties for which significant amount of geological information is available, as demonstrated by the information contained in this press release."



Figure 1 - McKenzie Bay Property Tenure Map



Figure 2 - McKenzie Bay Property Geology Map

Pegmatites found within the Wapesi Batholith have been studied by the Ontario Geological Survey since 2007 when the Red Lake Resident Geologist collected two (2) grab samples, one sample (2007CS010) consisting of a bulk pegmatite sample, the second sample (2007CS009) consisting of muscovite-onlyi. Geochemical analysis demonstrated that these samples were taken from a moderate-highly fractionated or evolved pegmatite, with the bulk pegmatite sample having a K/Rb ratio of 109.2 and an Mg/Li ratio of 11.9, and with the muscovite sample having a K/Rb ratio of 47.5 and an Mg/Li ratio of 4.6. The muscovite sample was found to have elevated lithium (Li = 648.7 ppm). Most of the key indicators for the muscovite sample (2007CS009) fall within the range expected of beryl-type pegmatites, as illustrated in the table below:

Table 1. Ranges of Compositions of Muscovite Analyses (Selway, et al 2005)ii Muscovite Li (ppm) Rb (ppm) Cs (ppm) K/Rb Ta (ppm) 2007CS009 648.7 1830 89.2 47.5 23.4 Fertile Granite 200-500 1000-1500 10-100 50-100 10-65 Beryl-type pegmatite 500-2000 1500-10000 100-500 20-50 10-65 Spodumene-subtype pegmatite >2000 >10000 >500 <20 >65

The Red Lake Resident Geologist concluded that this preliminary reconnaissance work demonstrates "that pegmatites with elevated rare metal content and displaying some of the features of potential rare metal mineralized pegmatites do occur in the Wapesi Lake area, but more intense exploration and sampling is required to determine if potentially economic rare metal pegmatites are present." (Lichtblau, et al. 2008)

This work was followed by a regional reconnaissance scale survey conducted by the Red Lake Resident Geologist in 2019. 17 samples were collected along an 80-km transect of the English River Subprovince along the McKenzie Bay Road which passes over the Wapesi Batholith (S-type, peraluminous granite). During this program, three granite grab samples (2019SL11, 2019SL12, 2019SL13) were collected within the current boundaries of the McKenzie Bay Property. The K/Rb ratios (mean = 128.6, range = 110.2-145.3), Mg/Li ratios (mean = 11.0, range = 8.1-16.2), cesium (mean = 17.49 ppm, range = 12.27-24.33 ppm), lithium (mean = 103.6 ppm, range = 68.2-157 ppm), rubidium (mean = 254.77 ppm, range = 193.64-314.46 ppm) and A/CNK ratios (mean = 1.21, range = 1.09-1.30) support the status of the Wapesi Batholith as a potentially fertile, s-type, peraluminous granite. The K/Rb and Mg/Li ratios of these 3 samples were the lowest among the 17 samples collected along the 80 km transect of the McKenzie Bay Road, indicating these are the most fractionated/evolved granites found within the survey areaiii.

In 2022, Bounty Gold Corp and Last Resort Resources conducted grassroots prospecting to follow up on the OGS sampling and recommendations for more intense exploration and sampling. During this program, 20 grab samples were collected from different areas of the McKenzie Bay Property. The results of this sampling continued to demonstrate the potential of the area to host rare-element pegmatites, with K/Rb ratios as low as 50.56 and Mg/Li ratios as low as 1.51 encountered, indicating a moderate-high level of fractionation of the pegmatites. This was supported by anomalous lithium (7 of 20 samples over 100 ppm), cesium (15 of 20 samples over 10 ppm) and rubidium (13 of 20 samples over 300 ppm).

More importantly, together with the OGS sampling conducted in 2009 and 2019, geochemical data is now available for 39 grab samples collected from this region. Analysis and interpretation of this data now shows an interpreted fractionation "trend" along which the lowest K/Rb ratios are found. This trend appears to pass SW-NE through the McKenzie Bay Property for ~12 km as illustrated in Figure 3.0 below. The location and orientation of this fractionation trend roughly corresponds to the location of an interpreted regional scale fault, the Wapesi Lake Fault (WLF) and it is possible the latter may impart a structural control to pegmatite emplacement and the fractionation trend observed through geochemical sampling.

The new staking announced today is intended to cover an additional ~4.5 km of the interpreted fractionation trend, and now connects the McKenzie Bay, Wapesi Lake and Wapesi North Properties into one contiguous land package along the interpreted Wapesi Lake Fault, enhancing Beyond Minerals' ability to explore this entire prospective trend unimpeded.



Figure 3 - McKenzie Bay - Interpreted Fractionation Trend

The Red Lake Resident Geologist also conducted a property examination of the McKenzie Bay Property in September 2022. During this property examination seven grab samples were collected by the Red Lake Resident Geologist for geochemical analysis. Geochemical results are pending, but once published will help expand Beyond Minerals' understanding of the geology and geochemical trends of the property.

Beyond Minerals intends to conduct extensive grassroots prospecting and regional reconnaissance sampling during the 2023 field season and intends to follow the geochemical data to vector into areas having higher potential to host rare-element (LCT) pegmatites. In the case of the expanded McKenzie Bay Property, this activity will now involve additional sampling between known data points and sampling along strike of the interpreted fractionation trend.

The preceding disclosure is based on information that is historical in nature and cannot be treated as NI-43-101 compliant verified by a qualified person.

About Beyond Minerals Inc.

Beyond Minerals Inc. is the largest greenfield lithium exploration player in Ontario with 64 high potential greenfield lithium properties totalling over 150,000 hectares. The Company has adopted the project generator business model to maximize funds available for exploration projects, while minimizing shareholder dilution. Beyond Minerals is advancing certain of its projects with its exploration team and will seek to option other properties to joint venture partners. Partnering on various projects will provide a source of non-dilutive working capital, partner-funded exploration, and long-term residual exposure to exploration success.

Please follow @BeyondMinerals on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube.

For more information, please refer to the Company's website at www.beyondminerals.ca.

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This news release includes certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein including, without limitation, statements regarding future capital expenditures, anticipated content, commencement, and cost of exploration programs in respect of the Company's projects and mineral properties, anticipated exploration program results from exploration activities, resources and/or reserves on the Company's projects and mineral properties, and the anticipated business plans and timing of future activities of the Company, are forward-looking information. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Often, but not always, forward-looking information can be identified by words such as "pro forma", "plans", "expects", "will", "may", "should", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", "believes", "potential" or variations of such words including negative variations thereof, and phrases that refer to certain actions, events or results that may, could, would, might or will occur or be taken or achieved. In stating the forward-looking information in this news release, the Company has applied several material assumptions, including without limitation, that market fundamentals will result in sustained precious and base metals demand and prices, the receipt of any necessary permits, licenses and regulatory approvals in connection with the future exploration of the Company's properties, the availability of financing on suitable terms, and the Company's ability to comply with environmental, health and safety laws.

Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the statements of forward-looking information. Such risks and other factors include, among others, statements as to the anticipated business plans and timing of future activities of the Company, the proposed expenditures for exploration work on its properties, the ability of the Company to obtain sufficient financing to fund its business activities and plans, delays in obtaining governmental and regulatory approvals (including of the Canadian Securities Exchange), permits or financing, changes in laws, regulations and policies affecting mining operations, risks relating to epidemics or pandemics such as COVID-19, the Company's limited operating history, currency fluctuations, title disputes or claims, environmental issues and liabilities, as well as those factors discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's prospectus dated February 23, 2022 and other filings of the Company with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities, copies of which can be found under the Company's profile on the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com.

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any of the forward-looking information in this news release except as otherwise required by law.

For further information, please contact:

Allan Frame

President and CEO

Tel: 403-470-8450

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Jason Frame

Manager of Communications

Tel: 587-225-2599

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

References

i Lichtblau, A.F., Ravnaas, C., Storey, C.C., Hinz, P. and Bongfeldt, J. 2008. Report of Activities 2007, Resident Geologist Program, Red Lake Regional Resident Geologist Report: Red Lake and Kenora Districts; Ontario Geological Survey, Open File Report 6216, 89p.

ii Selway, J., Breaks, F.B., Tindle, A.G. 2005. A Review of Rare-Element (Li-Cs-Ta) Pegmatite Exploration Techniques for the Superior Province, Canada, and Large Worldwide Tantalum Deposits. Exploration and Mining Geology, Vol. 14, Nos. 1-4, Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum. 30p.

iii Paterson, W.P.E., Ravnaas, C., Lewis, S.O., Paju, G.F., Fudge, S.P., Daniels, C.M. and Pettigrew, T.K. 2020. Report of Activities 2019, Resident Geologist Program, Red Lake Regional Resident Geologist Report: Red Lake and Kenora Districts; Ontario Geological Survey, Open File Report 6363, 112p.
Vancouver, British Columbia, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Terra Balcanica Resources Corp. (Terra or the Company) (CSE:TERA; FRA:UB1) is pleased to announce, positive step-out drill hole observations at the high-grade, Cumavici Ridge polymetallic epithermal vein target within its principal Viogor-Zanik project in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Highlights

Polymetallic epithermal mineralization has been intercepted in th e first 4 step- out drillholes of the 2023 Phase II program at Cumavici Ridge (Figure 1);





of the 2023 Phase II program at Cumavici Ridge (Figure 1); A successful 42 - m southeast step out with drill hole CMV2300 3 confirms the epithermal mineralization over 81 m strike length from previously reported CMVDD005 (Figure 2);





from previously reported CMVDD005 (Figure 2); Drillhole CMV23003 intersected the thickest zone of massive colloform sphalerite observed at Cumavici Ridge to date (Figure 3);





(Figure 3); Shallowest mineralization to date is reported with sulphides commencing at 7.1 m and 10.0 m in drill holes CMV23002b and CMV23001, respectively;





in drill holes CMV23002b and CMV23001, respectively; Macroscopic observations of mineral assemblages intercepted so far suggest that assays from the 2023 Phase II, Stage 1 drill program at Cumavici Ridge are expected to build on the high grades from maiden drilling.

Terra Balcanica CEO, Dr. Aleksandar Miskovic, comments: We are off to an exceptional start with the Phase II drill program at Cumavici Ridge where all the initial four drill holes returned signs of massive sulphide mineralization, in some cases as shallow as 7 meters below surface. We will continue to maximize drilling meterage by drilling scissor holes to help define the local geometry of the mineralized structure. With another 40 m step out, this time to the southeast and additional two step-outs planned in the same direction, we are potentially looking at over 180 meters of silver-dominated mineralization along strike at this target area alone, while the real goal is to extend the mineralized footprint to the northwest where Terra believes the system will show its full potential over an estimated 650 meters strike length. We are drilling through the same type of mineralization as is currently mined in the Sase mine which we surround. This facility is at half of its mine life with all the infrastructure in place. We will release laboratory assays shortly.

The Company commenced its Phase II drilling program at Cumavici Ridge, the 2022 high-grade polymetallic discovery which returned up to 505 g/t Ag Eq. over 11 m, by extending the mineralized footprint by 39 m to the SE in drillhole CMV23001 (See Company news release dated 27th of February 2023). A second drillhole CMV23002b used the same pad location with a shallower drilling inclination, and repeated the successful intercept commencing from 19 m. A 34 m step out to the SW defines CMV23003 where the Cumavici Vein system was successfully intersected 43.9 m downhole. Drill hole CMV23004, drilled from the same pad at a shallower angle confirmed continuity of the vein system at a depth of 35.35 m.

Figure 1. Geological map illustrating the 2023 planned drilling locations at Cumavici Ridge and the completed drillholes CMV23001/002b and 003/004 which have increased strike length of the mineralization to 81 m relative to 2022 Phase I drilling campaign (click here to view image).

Figure 2. Massive sulphide interval between 43.90-46.00 m downhole in CMV23003. 44.60-45.50 m hosts massive colloform banded orange-brown sphalerite and galena with intervals of hydrothermal brecciation, which grades downhole from an andesitic volcanic breccia which has been completely matrix replaced by a polymetallic sulphide assemblage (click here to view image).

Figure 3. PQ3 diameter diamond drillhole CMV23003 illustrating intervals of colloform banded orange-brown sphalerite and galena, including sections of hydrothermal breccia and a sharp upper vein contact with the argillic altered andesitic tuffaceous breccia. Coarse grained sulphides are present between the colloform bands (click here to view image).

Drill Core Observations



Drillhole CMV23001 reports the shallowest massive sulphide intercept to date with > 10 m of visible sulphides commencing at a depth of 10 m extending the mineralization footprint at Cumavici Ridge a further 39 m SE. Hanging wall disseminated sulphides grade into 2.75 m of intense quartz-sulphide veining within a silicified and strongly chlorite altered andesitic lapilli tuff including 0.7 m of semi-massive sphalerite-stibnite-galena-marcasite from 13.10 m depth and a 0.4 m zone of orange colloform banded sphalerite. Aggregates of sulphide extend to a depth of 21 m into the footwall, hosted by strongly argillic altered tuffaceous breccia and intervals of fault gouge. A second zone of mineralization in the footwall between 30.0-32.4 m depth hosts quartz-sulphide veining with a 0.3 m interval of sphalerite dominant semi-massive sulphide.

Drillhole CMV23002b was drilled from the same pad location, but with an inclination of - 50 intercepted two distinct intervals of polymetallic mineralization. Disseminated pyrite-sphalerite-stibnite between 7.1011.30 m marks a near-surface splay of the main vein, which includes a 5 cm interval of colloform banded quartz-sphalerite. The main Cumavici vein structure commenced at 19.0 m downhole with quartz-sulphide veinlets grading into semi massive sphalerite-galena-stibnite between 22.90-25.80 m downhole, coarse-grained galena is observed between bands of orange colloform sphalerite. Aggregates of sulphide extend into the footwall up to 34 m.

Drillhole CMV23003 is located 34 m SW of drillholes CMV23001/002b was designed as a down dip step out and successfully intersected the Cumavici Ridge mineralization. From 39 m downhole aggregates and veinlets of stibnite-sphalerite are observed within a tuffaceous breccia. Between 43.80  44.50 m the matrix of a tuffaceous breccia has been completely replaced by quartz-stibnite-black sphalerite-galena which grades into 0.90 m of massive banded colloform and coarse-grained orange sphalerite and galena. Veining extends into the footwall to 47.90 m (Figures 1 and 2).

Drillhole CMV23004 was drilled from the same pad location as CMV23003, but with an inclination of - 50 reached the Cumavici vein system at 35.35 m with the introduction of pyrite stringers within the hanging wall andesitic tuff. 36.20-36.80 m is comprised of colloform banded sphalerite and galena adjacent to massive black sphalerite-stibnite-sulphosalts. Extending into the footwall are sulphide veinlets and quartz-sulphide veins extending the mineralized interval to 38.30 m grading into sulphide aggregates up to 40.0 m depth.

Hole ID Easting Northing Elevation (m) Dip Azimuth Depth (m) Recovery (%) CMV23001 360221 4888494 716 -85  050  61.70 99 CMV23002b 360221 4888494 716 -50  050  56.20 99 CMV23003 360204 4888464 844 -85  050  56.80 100 CMV23004 360204 4888464 844 -50  050  58.10 100

Table 1. Collar locations for reported Phase II drillholes from Cumavici Ridge. Coordinates and elevation were taken using Garmin GPS MAP 66sr instrument. A survey by a differential GPS instrument will be undertaken prior to release of assay results. All spatial values in UTM; WGS8 datum; Zone 34N.

Ongoing Exploration Program

Further drilling at the Cumavici Ridge target will systematically move SE utilising ~ 40 m collar step outs with similar arrangements of -85 and -50 inclination holes to characterize the shallowest extents of the mineralization. Stage 2 of this program will move to the NW along strike within the 650 m continuous magnetic low domain.

Qualified Person

Dr. Aleksandar Miskovic, P.Geo, is the Companys designated Qualified Person for this news release within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure of Mineral Projects (NI 43-101) and has reviewed and validated that the information contained in this news release as accurate.

About the Company

Terra Balcanica is a polymetallic exploration company targeting large-scale mineral systems in the Balkans of southeastern Europe. The Company has 90% interest in the Viogor-Zanik Project in eastern Bosnia and Herzegovina, 100% of the Kaludra and Ceovishte mineral exploration licences in southern Serbia. The Company emphasizes responsible engagement with local communities and stakeholders. It is committed to proactively implementing Good International Industry Practice (GIIP) and sustainable health, safety, and environmental management.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Terra Balcanica Resources Corp.

Aleksandar Miskovic

Aleksandar Miskovic

President and CEO

For further information, please contact Alex Miskovic at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or visit our website at www.terrabresources.com.

Cautionary Statement

This news release contains certain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities legislation (collectively forward-looking statements). The use of any of the words will, intends and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements should not be unduly relied upon. Actual results achieved may vary from the information provided herein as a result of numerous known and unknown risks and uncertainties and other factors. The Company believes the expectations reflected in those forward-looking statements are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct. The Company does not undertake to update these forward-looking statements, except as required by law.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - April 17, 2023) - Li-FT Power Ltd. (CSE: LIFT) (FSE: WS0) ("LIFT" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that Kenneth Scott has been appointed to the Board of Directors and Andrew Marshall has been appointed to the role of interim Chief Financial Officer ("CFO"), effective immediately.

Mr. Marshall is a Chartered Accountant and Chartered Financial Analyst with 20 years of accounting, finance and CFO experience in the mining sector. He was recently the CFO at a Canadian gold development company and is currently the CFO at a European base metals exploration/development company. Prior to this, Mr. Marshall built experience at two TSX/NYSE listed silver operating companies with projects in Mexico and Canada. He has an extensive background in accounting, finance and risk management; corporate reporting in Canada and the US, as well as M&A transactions and strategic support for the growth and development of junior mining companies. Mr. Marshall started his career with PricewaterhouseCoopers ("PwC") in London and moved to the Vancouver mining practice in 2008.

Mr. Scott brings over 33 years of public company auditing experience to the Company. He retired as a partner of PwC in Vancouver in 2018, where his engagements as either the engagement leader or quality review partner included mining companies with international operations, such as SSR Mining, Lundin Gold, B2Gold and Teck Resources. He has also performed multi-location audits, advised on mergers and acquisitions, and advised on public and private financings. Mr. Scott's regulatory experience includes a leadership role on engagements selected by either the firm's internal audit quality review process or by the Canadian Public Accountability Board. Since retiring, Mr. Scott has served as a consultant and performed quality review roles for many of PwC's larger public company engagements. Mr. Scott holds a Canadian Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation.

Heidi Gutte has resigned from her positions of CFO and member of the Board of Directors, effective immediately.

Francis MacDonald, CEO of LIFT comments, "I would like welcome Mr. Marshall and Mr. Scott to the LIFT team. Their wealth of experience in financial, accounting, audit, and strategic roles in the mining industry strengthens LIFT at the management and board levels and will allow us to pursue our goal of becoming one of the most successful lithium exploration and development companies in Canada. I would like to thank Heidi Gutte for her contributions to the Company to date and wish her all the best in future endeavours."

Stock Options Grant

The Company announces that it has granted stock options (the "Options") to its directors, officers, employees and consultants to acquire a total of 575,000 common shares of the Company at an exercise price of $10.00 per share for a period of five years. The Options vest after six months, with one quarter of the total options vesting at each six-month anniversary.

About Li-FT

Li-FT is a mineral exploration company engaged in the acquisition, exploration, and development of lithium pegmatite projects located in Canada. The Company's flagship project is the Yellowknife Lithium Project located in Northwest Territories, Canada. Li-FT also holds three early-stage exploration properties in Quebec, Canada with excellent potential for the discovery of buried lithium pegmatites, in addition to the Cali Project in Northwest Territories within the Little Nahanni Pegmatite Field.

For further information, please contact:

Francis MacDonald

Chief Executive Officer

Tel: Canada: + 1.604.609.6185

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Website: www.li-ft.com

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

Certain statements included in this press release constitute forward-looking information or statements (collectively, "forward-looking statements"), including those identified by the expressions "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "estimate", "expect", "intend", "may", "should" and similar expressions to the extent they relate to the Company or its management. The forward-looking statements are not historical facts but reflect current expectations regarding future results or events. This press release contains forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and various estimates, factors and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors.

Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance and involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions which are difficult to predict. Factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include the continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market or business conditions, including the effects of COVID-19. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. These statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results. Such statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those implied by such statements. Although such statements are based on management's reasonable assumptions, there can be no assurance that the statements will prove to be accurate or that management's expectations or estimates of future developments, circumstances or results will materialize. The Company assumes no responsibility to update or revise forward-looking information to reflect new events or circumstances unless required by law. Readers should not place undue reliance on the Company's forward-looking statements.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange (the "CSE") nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Highlights:

Large land package consisting of 2,906 hectares within the prolific Selbaie Camp; located 14 east and 45 km north, respectively, of the Selbaie and Casa Berardi Mines, 30 km from Wallbridges Fenelon Gold Deposit which hosts an indicated resource of 21.6 Mt at 3.4 g/t Au and 7 km east of SOQUEMs B26 deposit, which hosts an indicated resource of 6.97Mt at 1.32% Cu, 1.8% Zn, 0.6 g/t Au and 43g/t Ag.1

Along strike of the Beschefer Project, where historical drilling has identified 55.63 g/t gold over 5.57 metres, including 224 g/t over 1.23 metres.The extension of this structure has seen limited testing on the Beschefer East side.

Historical hole 1172-99-30 intercepted 2.03 g/t Au over 6.1 metres with limited follow-up drilling.

Systematic exploration has outlined hree targeted gold structures, each 2-3 km in size, open for expansion that are largely untested. These targets also have Cu-Ag potential hosted in a felsic volcanic complex.

Timmins, Ontario  TheNewswire  April 18th, 2023 - Melkior Resources Inc. (Melkior or the Company) (TSXV:MKR) (OTC:MKRIF) is pleased to announce that it has entered into a letter of intent (the LOI) to acquire 100% of the Beschefer East Project (Beschefer East or the Project) from SOQUEM Inc (SOQUEM), an entity at arms length to the Company. SOQUEM is a subsidiary of Investissement Quebec. The Beschefer East Project is located approximately 90 km west of Matagami and 100 km north of La Sarre, Quebec, with good road access and a powerline running through the Project.

The Project has significant gold and polymetallic potential with geological similarities to SOQUEMs B26 deposit, located 7 km east, which hosts an indicated resource of 6.97 Mt at 1.32% Cu, 1.80% Zn, 0.60 g/t Au and 43 g/t Ag, and an inferred resource of 4.41 Mt at 2.03% Cu, 0.22% Zn, 1.07 g/t Au and 9 g/t Ag (Soquem.qc.ca).1 The Project shares a border with Goldseek Resources Beschefer Project, where historical drilling has identified 55.63 g/t gold over 5.57 metres, including 224 g/t over 1.23 metres within the B14 Gold Zone.1

Jonathon Deluce, CEO of Melkior, stated, We believe that the Project has significant potential given the multi-kilometre gold-copper-silver targets identified by SOQUEM. With the amount of mineralization intercepted to date amongst these large targets, we believe there is a higher metal factor source which we will target in upcoming programs. We also believe that the B14 gold zone extends onto the Beschefer East Project, which is one of our top targets for Phase 1 drilling. During our due diligence, we have been impressed by the density and quality of the database compiled by SOQUEM. This will enable us to capitalize on prior program investment while rapidly determining the next steps for the Project, including a surface geochemical survey to target a new discovery. We look forward to finalizing a definitive agreement (the Definitive Agreement) with SOQUEM in the coming weeks.

Figure 1: Project Outline and Area Map

Project Summary

Location: The Project comprises 55 claims covering 2,906 hectares in the Eeyou Istchee Baie-James territory, Nord du Quebec region.

History: The Project was worked intensively from the sixties to the early nineties by BHP Billiton while operating the Selbaie Mine. The use of diverse geophysical approaches in conjunction with overburden gold sampling was essential due to the thick overburden blanket. It led to the discovery of multiple gold, copper, silver, and zinc anomalies in a felsic volcanic rock environment.

The Project was then systematically explored by SOQUEM between 1992 and 2012, building a tight grid of geophysical anomalies, followed by drill testing. Exploration was done using a checkered geophysics line pattern to evaluate the potential of different structural orientations. Around 300km of surveyed lines were completed in conjunction with drilling 11,200 metres distributed in 42 holes. The Company aims to expand on the gold, copper and silver anomalies identified in prior drill programs and integrate data to confirm gold trends spatially associated with extensive low-grade base metal mineralized systems.

Results: The best gold results were obtained from the Power Line target located in the northern part of the Project. Hole 1172-99-30 returned a series of individual mineralized intervals from 2 to 5 g/t over lengths of 0.5 to 6 metres within a large interval of 70 metres. Hole 1172-13-40 intercepted 2.1 g/t over 5.4 metres, including 7.9 g/t over 0.9 metres. Gold mineralization is hosted in a quartz-carbonate centimetric veins network cross-cutting felsic to the intermediate volcanic rock affected by variable pervasive alteration associated with minor amounts of pyrite. Hole 1172-98-24 intersected the same type of mineralization but was hosted in deformed and carbonate-altered andesite located in the southern half of the property.

Short anomalous copper anomalies were intersected in a sector identified as the Noramco target. From prior SOQUEM programs, the best results were 0.26 % over 4.8 metres and 0.24% over 4 metres (1172-98-24 and 1172-99-30, respectively).

A summary of selected historical drill results is reported in Table 1:

Drill Hole From (m) To (m) Length (m)1 Au (g/t) 1172-98-24 196.0 197.5 1.3 3.2 1172-99-30 127.7 128.7 1 4.99 184.1 184.7 0.6 5.38 191.8 197.9 6.1 2.03 1172-13-40 92.1 97 4.9 2.1 Incl. 92.1 93 0.9 7.88 1172-13-41 37 43 6 1

Drill Hole From (m) To (m) Length (m)1 Cu (%) 1172-98-28 146.57 151.4 4.8 0.26 1172-13-34 171 175 4 0.24

Notes:

True widths of mineralization are not known. Some intervals presented vary from those in Figure 1 due to the table including re-assaying results.

Geology: The Project is located in the eastern part of the Brouillan volcanic complex, which is a part of the North Volcanic Zone of the Abitibi Greenstone Belt. The drill coverage has highlighted the felsic dome facies, along with related lapillis and fine tuffs that have been affected by a north-east trending polyphased folding pattern. To the south, basalt and gabbros have been identified interlayered with graphitic sediments and cherts. Hydrothermal alterations have favorable characteristics for the exploration of volcanogenic massive sulfides deposits (VMS). On the west side of the Brouillan syn-volcanic intrusion, the Selbaie Mine produced 53 Mt of ore at grades of 0.96% Cu, 1.9% Zn, 40.7 g/t Ag, and 0.58 g/t Au. The rock units of the Project have been affected by deformation and structural elements related to the Bapst Fault. Additionally, the north-east deformation zones, including the extension of the Beschefer gold structure, are interpreted to pass through the property.

Figure 2: Property Wide Targets

Note:

Approximate updated property boundary shown in yellow.

Terms of the LOI Agreement

Under the terms of the LOI, Melkior has the right to earn a 100% interest in the Project through an option, subject to a net smelter return royalty of up to 2.5% on certain claims made up of a historical NSR of 1.5% and 1% granted to SOQUEM. To earn an undivided 100% interest in the Project, Melkior must make total cash payments of $50,000, issue $500,000 worth of common shares in the capital of Melkior to SOQUEM and incur Work Expenditures of $1,500,000 in total, all in accordance with the anniversary dates in the table below:

Date Cash Shares Work Expenditures Upon execution of the Definitive Agreement $50,000 $50,000 worth of common shares issued at the higher of 0.20 per share or the weighted average price of the common shares for the 10 trading days immediately preceding the date of the Definitive Agreement NA On or before the first anniversary of the execution of the Definitive Agreement $0 $100,000 worth of common shares issued at the higher of 0.20 per share or the weighted average price of the common shares for the 10 trading days immediately preceding the first anniversary of the Definitive Agreement $375,000 in aggregate Work Expenditures On or before the second anniversary of the execution of the Definitive Agreement $0 $150,000 worth of common shares issued at the higher of 0.20 per share or the weighted average price of the common shares for the 10 trading days immediately preceding the second anniversary of the Definitive Agreement $750,000 in Work Expenditures in the aggregate (including the $375,000 Year 1 Work Expenditures) On or before the third anniversary of the execution of the Definitive Agreement $0 $200,000 worth of common shares issued at the higher of 0.20 per share or the weighted average price of the common shares for the 10 trading days immediately preceding the third anniversary of the Definitive Agreement $1,500,000 in Work Expenditures in the aggregate (including the Year 1 and Year 2 Work Expenditures)

The LOI will shortly be replaced with the Definitive Agreement and the Definitive Agreement and issuance of shares to SOQUEM thereunder is subject to TSX Venture Exchange (TSXV) approval and the Companys filing requirements with TSXV. All common shares of Melkior issued under the Definitive Agreement will be subject to a hold period of 4 months and one day from the date of issuance.

Qualified Person

This press release was reviewed and approved by Martin Demers, P.Geo, OGQ No 770, who is a qualified person as defined under National Instrument 43-101, and responsible for the technical information provided in this news release. Mr. Demers is a consultant for Melkior.

About SOQUEM

SOQUEM, a subsidiary of Investissement Quebec, is dedicated to promoting the exploration, discovery and development of mining properties in Quebec. SOQUEM also contributes to maintaining strong local economies. Proud partner and ambassador for the development of Quebecs mineral wealth, SOQUEM relies on innovation, research and strategic minerals to be well-positioned for the future.

Source of information:

1. ARTINIAN, B., DESBIENS-LEVESQUE, J.-F., 2014. RAPPORT D'EXPLORATION AUTOMNE 2013, BESCHEFER (1172). SOQUEM INC, rapport statutaire soumis au gouvernement du Quebec; GM 68956, 366 pages, 11 plans.

2. Rapport de la campagne de forages  Decembre 1995/Janvier 1996  Projet Beschfer (#1172-1), Verschelden R., Soquem, Assesssment report GM-56628.

3. NI 43-101 Technical Report for the Detour-Fenelon Gold Trend Property, Quebec, Canada, March 3,2023

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

Jonathon Deluce, CEO

For more information, please contact:

Melkior Resources Inc.

E-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Tel: 226-271-5170

The reader is invited to visit Melkiors web site https://www.melkior.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.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news 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, and include statements with respect to the anticipated timing of entry into the Definitive Agreement and closing and payments thereunder and statements with respect to the non- current 43-101 resource estimates on the property to be acquired by the Company. 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. Consequently, there can be no assurances that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Except to the extent required by applicable securities laws and the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements if managements beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change. Factors that could cause future results to differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements include risks associated with the failure to complete the terms of the Agreement, possible accidents and other risks associated with mineral exploration operations, the risk that the Company will encounter unanticipated geological factors, the possibility that the Company may not be able to secure permitting and other governmental clearances necessary to carry out the Companys exploration plans, the risk that the Company will not be able to raise sufficient funds to carry out its business plans, and the risk of political uncertainties and regulatory or legal changes that might interfere with the Companys business and prospects.; the business and operations of the Company; unprecedented market and economic risks associated with current unprecedented market and economic circumstances due to the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as those risks and uncertainties identified and reported in the Company's public filings under its SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in 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 to reflect actual results, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions or changes in factors affecting such forward-looking statements.

1 References to nearby properties is for information purposes only and there are no assurances the Company will receive the same results.
Videos of horrific abuses blamed on Russia's troops in Ukraine have exposed what activists say is a deep-rooted sense of impunity in Moscow's army.

A video apparently showing a Ukrainian prisoner of war's beheading by a Russian-speaking attacker sparked fresh outrage last week in the West and prompted comparisons to the Islamic State group's recordings.

Russian prosecutors have said they are looking into the video's authenticity, a rare move for Moscow, which is usually swift to deny allegations of war crimes by its troops in Ukraine.

Previous recordings -- showing a castration, the point-blank shooting of a prisoner and the mutilated bodies of dead soldiers -- have been circulating online since Russia's full invasion began last year.

Not all have been verified and many perpetrators of the acts remain unidentified, but Ukrainian officials have repeatedly put the blame on Russian forces.

- Chechnya, Syria, Ukraine -

"We don't know when and where this (decapitation) video was recorded, it's impossible for now to say who the perpetrators are, but there is a context," said Alexander Cherkasov, director of the human rights centre at Russian group Memorial, whose closure was ordered by Moscow in December 2021.

"There have been precedents, especially in Chechnya where dozens of headless bodies were discovered, among the thousands of forced disappearances during the second Chechen war" from 1999-2009, he added.

He also pointed to a 2017 video from Syria showing the torture and killing of a deserter from Damascus's army, which sparked the first criminal complaint against Russian mercenary group Wagner.

That case -- filed in Moscow in 2021 by three NGOs, including Memorial -- said they had identified the perpetrators as Wagner fighters.

Russian courts closed the case, which is now with the European Court of Human Rights.

"There's an impunity mechanism that's been at work since the first Chechen war (in 1994-96), and what we're seeing in Ukraine today results from that," Cherkasov said.

"Russian leaders, whether they're in the army, the intelligence services or Wagner, go unpunished and can be sure of that impunity".

Cherkasov co-authored a recent report from Memorial laying out that the Chechen, Syrian and Ukrainian conflicts "sometimes involved the same actors, the same units and military outfits".

It was "a chain of wars, a chain of crimes, a chain of impunity," the group added.

- 'Green light' -

"Because there was no reaction from the international community about what happened in Syria, we have this situation in Ukraine," says Syrian lawyer Mazen Darwish, founder of the Syrian Centre for Media and Freedom of Expression.

His group was one of those to file the Russian court case against Wagner.

"By rejecting it, (the Russian justice system) gave a green light to these soldiers, who feel protected, they know they won't be held accountable," Darwish said.

Anna Colin Lebedev, a researcher specialising in post-Soviet societies, warned against explanations blaming inherent characteristics -- noting that most of the shock videos have been attributed to Wagner, not the regular Russian army.

"There's a whole bundle of things that make this violence possible," Lebedev said, pointing to "practices seen as acceptable, like making no distinction between civilians and combatants".

She further highlighted "a problem with leadership and hierarchy in the Russian army, a lack of clarity about the war's objectives and the social profile of the soldiers at the front" -- many of them from impoverished, poorly educated backgrounds.

Wagner has also infamously recruited tens of thousands of convicts from Russian jails to swell its ranks in Ukraine.

Such people may be criminals, but are also "psychologically broken" and accustomed to intense violence from years in Russian prisons, where torture, rape and solitary confinement are widespread, Russian lawyer Yana Gelmel noted at a recent Memorial conference in Paris.
Angola's transitional justice process has suffered a major blow. On 22 March, a group of relatives of civil war victims, known as the 27 of May orphans, announced that the samples of bone matter they had received from the Angolan authorities as probably belonging to their parents, turned out not to be related to them at all. In an open letter to the Angolan people, the orphans describe the returning of the wrong mortal remains as an "exercise in cruelty", "in which feelings of loss, pain and sorrow were unnecessarily aroused, with goals that have nothing noble".

The return of the remains was part of the work of the government-established reconciliation commission that has been operating in Angola since 2019. We previously wrote about its work in contributions in 2020 and 2021. Although the commission has the staggeringly extensive mandate to reconcile Angolans in the face of all political conflicts that occurred during Angolas 27-year civil war, the events of 27 May 1977 and their aftermath have so far been dominating its agenda. On that day, an alleged coup d'etat attempt occurred within the ruling MPLA party, to which the state responded with excessive and prolonged violence. In the following years, thousands were killed as a result of government violence. The subject of 27 de maio has for long been a taboo that, until recently, has hardly been publicly discussed in Angola.

Public apology and restitution of bodily remains

On 26 May 2021, Angola took an important step in breaking the silence. On that day, Angola's president Joao Lourenco apologized on behalf of the Angolan state for the mass executions and asked for forgiveness. During his speech the president also announced that everything possible would be done to locate and identify the remains of the largest possible number of victims to allow for dignified funeral ceremonies, whilst naming twelve prominent victims in particular. In March 2022 the presidents commitment seemingly delivered the first concrete results when Angola's Minister of Justice and chair of the reconciliation commission, Francisco Queiroz, announced that the remains of most of the named victims were possibly found in a mass grave. DNA matter of next of kin still needed to be collected in order to establish the identities of the remains and the identities of four of the bodies were subsequently confirmed.

On 13 June 2022, in the run-up to the presidential elections, the remains of the four identified victims were returned to their families in an emotionally charged public ceremony in Luanda. During the gathering several speakers, both government representatives and relatives of the victims, spoke conciliatory and praising words. Queiroz stated during the ceremony that the DNA identification documentation was "verifiable" and "available for international review". However, the DNA matching process was done by the Angolan authorities without the involvement of international forensic experts.

None of the samples showed a DNA match

Months later, relatives of some of the other named victims were also offered the return of their family members remains. This group of relatives, often orphans living outside of Angola, called for a more rigorous process of identification based on international standards and led by internationally acknowledged forensic experts. The Angolan government agreed to this request after which, based on an intergovernmental agreement, the Portuguese government assisted in assembling an investigation team of Portuguese experts, which visited Angola in July 2022 in order to take samples. To the shock of the victims relatives none of the samples showed a DNA match with the supposed relatives. As one of the experts put it we are sure that the bodies do not belong to those who were expected. This is a scientific certainty."

The Angolan government has so far not officially responded to the experts conclusions. But this outcome raises the question whether the identity of the first four prominent victims whose remains have already been reburied by their family members has been correctly established. And meanwhile, other families who are awaiting the results of the governments DNA analyses for their relatives have expressed their loss of trust in the outcome.

An arduous reconciliation process

For some, the fact that the reconciliation commission's has been involved in returning of the wrong bone matter reinforces the image of an incomplete, messy, untransparent and insufficiently independent and impartial reconciliation process in Angola. Not only has confidence in the determination of DNA results by the Angolan government fallen to zero. In addition, there are a number of other structural issues with the commissions approach: the strong focus on the May 27 issue at the detriment of other political conflicts, the lack of clarity about the meaning of the 'political conflict' concept itself, and the commissions one-sided composition (dominated by government representatives), to name the most important ones.

In July 2021, dissatisfaction with, among other things, the one-sided composition of the commission, its lack of focus on establishing historical truth and its broad conception of victimhood, already led to the suspension of all cooperation with the commission by an important group of May 27 victims. In a previous contribution, we described the general problem that the commission's exclusive focus on 'political conflicts' seems to place many international crimes committed during the military conflict a priori outside of its competence.

Daunting task ahead

The 2019 presidential decree on the basis of which the reconciliation commission operates, said that the commission should conclude its activities on 31 July 2021. Although the commissions website does not provide any details, we were informed that now, more than a year and a half later, it is still operational. For the time being, no new end date has been set for the commission to finish its work and it is currently unclear who will be leading it as its former chair and driving force, Queiroz, has not returned in the new Angolan government. In any case, it is quite clear that a daunting task is awaiting the commission and its new chair. Remedial work is needed to rectify the debacle of the misidentified May 27 victims, while victims of other political conflicts are also likely to step up and expect the commission to attend to their needs. It is questionable whether it will be able to satisfactorily meet current and future expectations. Regarding the remedial work, the government seems to have started off badly. During a ceremony to commemorate the end of the civil war on 4 April 2023, president Lourenco decorated both one of the prime victims of the May 27 massacres (posthumously) and a former officer of the secret service who in several books and testimonies has been referred to as a well-known executor of the killings. A number of observers expressed their indignancy with the decision to mix victims and alleged perpetrators during the same decoration ceremony.

Muddled memorialization?

One of the tasks assigned to the commission was to decide on a Memorial in honour of the Victims of Political Conflicts. In the summer of 2022, Queiroz presented its definitive design. Chinese company Nova Jiangsu, winner of the public tender for the project, will start construction works this year and is expected to finish the project within 16 months. The construction will be named Eternal Alliance and consists of two interconnected blocks depicting an embrace. The memorial covers nine floors and includes among other things, a digital collection on various political conflicts, an exposition and conference room and a souvenir shop. Total building costs are estimated at 33 million euros.

Given the many criticisms and unfinished tasks the commission is facing, it remains to be seen how this monument will be received in Angolan society. As long as the commissions mandate and focus are not clearly delineated and remain multi-interpretable, it might just be yet another cause for debate and critique, rather than a contribution to true reconciliation.
YEREVAN, APRIL 18, ARMENPRESS. The Republic of Armenia fully recognizes Azerbaijans territorial integrity and expects Azerbaijan to do the same by recognizing the entire territory of the Armenian SSR as the Republic of Armenia, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has said.

The peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan would become realistic if the two countries recognize each others territorial integrity without ambiguities and traps and assume obligation to not make territorial claims against each other, now or ever, Pashinyan said in parliament.

Pashinyan reminded that such an agreement was reached with the Azerbaijani president during their meetings in Prague and Sochi on October 6 and October 31 in 2022 respectively.

Nevertheless, official statements are heard both from Yerevan and Baku accusing the other side of not adhering to the agreements. I want to reiterate that the Republic of Armenia fully recognizes Azerbaijans territorial integrity and we expect Azerbaijan to do the same, by recognizing the entire territory of the Armenian SSR as Republic of Armenia, Pashinyan said.

Pashinyan said that Azerbaijans accusations that Armenia is refusing to fully recognize Azerbaijans territorial integrity during the peace treaty talks are untrue.

He said that Armenia itself offered to attach the maps of the Armenian and Azerbaijani SSRs  approved by the USSR  to the treaty as the basis of territorial integrity of the two countries.
YEREVAN, APRIL 18, ARMENPRESS. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has again called for the development of international mechanisms guaranteeing the implementation of a possible peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

Without such mechanisms, a new war or escalation could happen even a day after signing the treaty, Pashinyan warned.

Speaking about the mutual recognition of each others territorial integrity by Armenia and Azerbaijan, PM Pashinyan said that Armenia itself offered to attach the maps of the Armenian and Azerbaijani SSRs  approved by the USSR  to the treaty as the basis of territorial integrity of the two countries.

But it is here that we reach the biggest and most difficult problem, Nagorno Karabakh. And there is a nuance, which has been highly urgent during the past sixteen years, but we havent addressed it. The problem is that usually we address and have addressed the future of Nagorno Karabakh, but it is important to address the issue of Nagorno Karabakhs situation at any moment during the existence of the conflict, Pashinyan said. He said he attempted to do this several times during the past five years, but regrettably the issue transforms into a dispute between the opposition and the government, which is also normal.

During the entire course of the Nagorno Karabakh conflict, the principles of territorial integrity and self-determination were placed side by side. This actually recorded realities which we cannot admit, but regardless of admitting or not, they exist. In this context, the right to self-determination means that you, as a beneficiary of the right to self-determination, are raising the issue of revising your, so to say, nominal A status. Theoretically this could mean to revise the A status and make it a B status, or revise it and not change it, or revise it and make it A+1 or A-1 status, Pashinyan said. But without noting the A status, with this logic there cant be any talk about any future status, meaning the self-determination.

If you raise the issue of self-determination it means you are part of something. If you are a part of something, youve either already self-determined or dont have the need to self-determination. Now, with our own hands, during the time known to you, we have created this negotiations, political, geopolitical reality, cemented it, but after that weve said we want a B status for Nagorno Karabakh, but weve never publicly accepted the A status. Weve lied to ourselves with this, the people of Armenia, the people of Nagorno Karabakh, Pashinyan said, adding that there wont be peace until they face this fact. Pashinyan said he considers his political commitment to be peace. In this context, Pashinyan attached high importance to the development of an international mechanism for dialogue between Baku and Stepanakert to ensure the implementation of the rights and security agenda of the Armenians of Nagorno Karabakh.

It is highly important that international mechanisms guaranteeing the possible peace treaty implementation get developed, otherwise war or new escalation could erupt the next day of the signing of the treaty, Pashinyan said.

He also highlighted the opening of economic and transport connections, noting that as stipulated by the 9 November statement, the roads must be reopened under the sovereignty and legislation of the parties.
Viewers can't get enough of "Taxi Driver" lead stars Lee Je Hoon and Pyo Ye Jin's chemistry, despite the hit SBS series airing its finale.

While the webtoon-based action-crime series set a record-breaking viewership, the South Korean heathrob, who played the role of anti-hero Kim Do Gi, responded to his co-star's statement about being named as her ideal type.

Lee Je Joon Says He 'Didn't Know What To Do' After Hearing Pyo Ye Jin's Confession

In an interview with local media outlets, Lee Je Hoon became honest and spoke out on his reaction to Pyo Ye Jin's recent statement.

"I now recognize the fact that I am Pyo Ye Jin's ideal type," he joked, expressing his gratitude towards the co-star but admitted that he "didn't know what to do."

When asked about their working relationship on set, the top star shared that when filming as Kim Do Gi, he usually had a serious atmosphere, but after his scenes, he would joke around with the cast, including Pyo Ye Jin.

"I filmed season 2 well and had fun," he said, adding, "It's so much fun when we're together," referring to the chemistry with the Rainbow Taxi team.

To recall, Pyo Ye Jin appeared as a guest on the SBS talk show "My Little Old Boy," where the host recalled her previous interview where she named Lee Je Hoon as her ideal type.

However, the actress said that things have changed and that she feels embarrassed by her confession.

"I said he was my ideal type a long time ago when I saw the movie 'Architecture 101'," she said, referring to the actor's 2012 movie.

Interestingly, the "My Little Old Boy" host made the actress choose with who she wants to work with in the future between "Our Blooming Youth" co-star Park Hyung Sik and Lee Je Hoon. The actress chose the latter and shared that they've become close because of "Taxi Driver."

Who is Lee Je Hoon's Ideal Type?

The actor may be tight-lipped about his relationship, but he was vocal about the qualities that he wants in his future partner. In an interview back in 2016, Lee Je Hoon revealed his ideal type and why he had been single for a long time.

As obtained by a media outlet, he said that he is focused on his career since he made his debut at a later age.

"After the military service, I wanted to show a good, refreshed side of me (to the viewers). I wanted to do well. And naturally, dating was put on the back burner," he explained.

Now that he is an in-demand star, Lee Je Hoon said that he "should start dating."

When asked about his ideal type, the actor said that he wants to have someone with whom he will have good conversation and who will "talk a lot about many things, such as personal interests." He also hopes that the person would like movies and music as much as he does, since these are his interests.

KDramaStars owns this article.

Written by Geca Wills
In order for them to easily solve the murder case in the village, Kang Han Soo (Woo Do Hwan), Lee Yeon Joo (Bona), and Yoo Ji Sun (Cha Hak Yeon) joined forces to find the culprit in "Joseon Attorney" episodes 5 and 6.

'Joseon Attorney' Episode 5: Kang Han Soo Encounters New Case

Kang Han Soo went to a village where there was a woman who was searching for a botjim. In the same place, there was an incident where a woman was killed. Young Sil (Kwon Ah Reum) was one of the involved people in the case, which later on revealed became the perpetrator of the incident.

Attorney Kang had a hard time because of the people who tried to cover up the incident. As Kang Han Soo and Princess Lee Yeon Joo continued to investigate the incident, Kang Han Soo discovered that the case that happened in the village is related to his father's death.

'Joseon Attorney' Episode 6: Kang Han Soo Teams Up With Lee Yeon Joo & Yoo Ji Sun

Kang Han Soo learned more about the case. Thanks to Lee Yeon Joo's sincerity and Young Il's earnest cry, he began a full-fledged lawsuit. Seeing the teamwork, the head village looked at Han Soo with contempt, in which the attorney engaged in a tense battle so he could not lose.

He was covered with bruises after the fight. In the middle of the night, Lee Yeon Joo sneakily visited him and treated Kang Han Soo's injured hand.

Meanwhile, the protests of the villagers over Young Sil's case intensified, in which the sending of an official letter to the inspectorate was attacked and put in danger. Adding to the chaos, the head of the village instigated the villagers to attack the government office, and eventually, the people broke the prison and took Young Sil away.

Young Sil was brought into the courtroom, and when Kang Han Soo appeared, the atmosphere changed. The attorney expressed his regret in Young Sil's place with an impressive speech that amazed the audience.

Yoon Ji Sun, on the other hand, who governs Han Seong Bu arrived and faced the people. He ordered a thorough investigation into the case. It was revealed that the reason for his appearance was Kang Han Soo's false letter that seduced him.

Thus, the collaboration between Kang Han Soo and Ji Sun ended successfully.

What can you say about "Joseon Attorney" episodes 5 and 6? Share your replies in the comments!

For more K-Drama, K-Movie, and celebrity news and updates, keep your tabs open here at Kdramastars.

Kdramastars owns this article.

Shai Collins wrote this.
"QueenMaker" delivered a surprising ending as episodes 6 to 12 featured the much-awaited team-up of Kim Hee Ae and Moon So Ri's characters.

Focusing on womance (or the counterpart of bromance), the Netflix series illustrates the friendship between two strong female individuals.

"QueenMaker" showcased not just a unique friendship but also the dominance and reign of women in politics.

Helmed by Oh Jin Suk of 2017's "Sassy Girl" and penned by Moon Ji Young of "I Love Lee Tae Ri," the 11-episode K-drama featured Kim Hee Ae as Hwang Do Hee, the corporate strategy head of EunSung Group who works as the "fixer" of the company. She is responsible for restoring the image of the conglomerate amid the scandals and controversies surrounding the family.

Meanwhile, Moon So Ri took on the role of labor rights lawyer Oh Kyung Sook, running for mayoral race against EunSung Group's bet Baek Jae Min, played by Ryu Soo Young

'QueenMaker' Episodes 7 to 11 Recap

The second half of "QueenMaker" focused on Seoul's mayoral election. As the campaign period began, various parties started to dig in the dirt against their competitors.

Chairman Son introduced Carl Yoon as Baek Jae Min's campaign head, who would oversee the strategies for the team.

One of the first activities for the mayoral race was a debate between the candidates. However, Carl Yoon advised Jae Min not to participate in the debate, so it was up against two strong female candidates.

Oh Kyung Sook was up against Seo Min Jung, who was also favored by many to be the first female mayor of Seoul.

However, Oh Kyung Sook's side managed to raise speculation about her lavish lifestyle. Thanks to Hwang Do Hee's expertise, they gained the upper hand against their competitor.

However, Seo Min Jung got back by blackmailing a colleague of Oh Kyung Sook, who used the funds of the organization for her personal use.

Thankfully, Hwang Do Hee's ex-husband, who used to work as Seo Min Jung's campaign manager, exposed her plans in public and caused outrage, especially Kyung Sook.

Seo Min Jung withdrew her candidacy, and it was now between Oh Kyung Sook and Baek Jae Min. Through Carl Yoon and his sneaky ways, they managed to get the upper hand by spying on Hwang Do Hee's next move.

However, one of the biggest blows that affected Kyung Sook and her campaign was tainting the name of her son. Through fake news, he was seen as a bully and a sex offender.

Interestingly, Hwang Do Hee and the staff were able to trace that it was all planned by Baek Jae Min's team. This prompted Hwang Do Hee to expose Baek Jae Min as a womanizer and his involvement with the death of his former secretary, Han I Seul.

After creating such massive controversy, Hwang Do Hee found out that I Seul did not die by suicide, but was murdered by Jae Min. She also speculated that Guk Ji Yeon, the one who replaced Hwang Do Hee in the position, was a mistress and pregnant with Baek Ji Min's child.

To get rid of her and prevent the truth from being exposed, he planned a staged suicide, but thankfully, she was saved by Hwang Do Hee and the team.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: Kim Hee Ae Feels 'Burdened' By 'The World of the Married's' Success

At the press conference, a day before the election, Ms. Guk revealed the truth behind her affair with the candidate. She also shared that Baek Jae Min and his team planned to murder her to prevent the truth from being exposed to the public.

The downfall also led Chairman Son to get rid of her son-in-law and stage it as suicide.

On the other hand, Oh Kyung Sook was formally announced as Seoul's first ever female mayor, but Hwang Do Hee was imprisoned for accepting a 20 billion KRW bribe from Eunsing. She made herself a sacrificial lamb for the prosecutor to investigate Chairman Son's slush fund.

However, during her time in prison, Hwang Do Hee met a visitor who asked for her help.

KDramaStars owns this article

Written by Geca Wills
All loose ends are about to be tied as "Oasis" welcomes its penultimate week of broadcast. In episode 13, Jang Dong Yoon and Seol In Ah's relationship is threatened after the former lays down his revenge plan. Keep on reading to know more.

Lee Doo Hak Lays Down Best Planned Revenge

Lee Doo Hak (Jang Dong Yoon) leaves everyone speechless after he returns from the dead. After cheating death, he mastered his skills as a thug equipped with fighting skills and a thoroughly planned revenge.

In the previous episode, Lee Doo Hak reunites with his lover Oh Jung Shin (Seol In Ah) who has been longing for him for three long years.

While he promises her forever, Lee Doo Hak risks his safety once again as he hunts down Oh Man Ok (Jin Yi Han), the man who took down his late father, to finally give him his long awaited punishment.

Oh Jung Shin Learns The Truth

In "Oasis" episode 13, Lee Doo Hak reveals Choi Cheol Woong's (Chu Young Woo) true colors to Oh Jung Shin; from being brothers to nearly killing him to their father's death.

He also confesses that the true culprit behind Ki Young Tak's (Jang Young Joon) death was Choi Cheol Woong, and that he was only wrongly imprisoned to save his younger brother's reputation.

Unfortunately, Oh Jung Shin asks him not to get revenge from his brother, leaving Lee Doo Hak confused and hurt.

Lee Doo Hak Avenges Father's Demise

Despite that, Lee Doo Hak continued to hunt down Choi Cheol Woong's right hand man who shot his father to death.

However, the real target is Choi Cheol Woong. With this, Oh Man Ok warns the other of what's about to come.

Meanwhile, Choi Cheol Woong and his mother vowed to keep Oh Man Ok, especially when he discovers the truth about the former's real identity.

Lee Doo Hak then kidnaps Oh Man Ok due to his impatience and never-ending rage. He warns him that he's not afraid to kill him, after all that has happened not only to him but also to his family.

At the end of the episode, Choi Cheol Woong is interrogated whether he killed Lee Doo Hak's father or not. Because he doesn't know that the other is still alive, he denies the truth and succumbs to evil.

KDramaStars owns this article.

Written by Elijah Mully.
After the drama trailer and posters took the excitement index to a new level for "Tale of the Nine Tailed 1938," tvN finally released the first ever character stills of Lee Dong Wook.

The actor transforms into a handsome gumiho in the forthcoming work, which is a direct sequel to the 2020 smash hit series of the same name. Read on to know more.

'Tale of the Nine Tailed' Drops Lee Dong Wook's First Ever Stills

Lee Dong Wook's first character photos as a nine-tailed fox have been released!

On April 18, broadcast network tvN dropped the actor's transformation into a gumiho, much to fans' excitement.

In "Tale of the Nine Tailed 1938," Lee Dong Wook plays the role of Lee Yeon, a nine-tailed fox who is transported back in the big year of 1938 due to an unknown incident, leaving his precious people and loved ones behind.

The photos capture Lee Yeon's extremely happy life as a human as he stands before an ice cream shop, waiting in line for his favorite mint chocolate gelato.

He lives a normal life as a human before the catastrophic summoning occurred. In the other photo, Lee Yeon sits across Kim Jung Nan at the Afterlife Immigration Office with evident confusion.

The bewilderment that is present in his face heralds a turbulent life as he meets his younger brother Lee Rang and former Western Mountain God Ryu Hong Joo, played by Kim Bum and Kim So Yeon, respectively.

Fans express their excitement for the drama as well as Lee Dong Wook's return as their favorite gumiho this 2023.

Lee Dong Wook Reveals Why He Chose To Star In 'Tale of the Nine Tailed 1938'

This year, Lee Dong Wook promises his beloved fans an enjoyable and unforgettable work.

In an exclusive interview with the broadcast network tvN, the actor expressed his happiness to be able to play Lee Yeon once again.

According to the actor, he is nothing but grateful to appear in a work that he worked hard on with the director and the production unit since the first season.

Lee Dong Wook guarantees that "Tale of the Nine Tailed 1938" brings an upgraded touch to its prequel, doubling the fans' expectation.

The South Korean star says that "change" is the main point in the series that fans should watch for. Lee Dong Wook reasoned, "Times have changed so there will be changes in behavior and other things, too."

He added, "Lee Yeon protected the ones he loved in Season 1. This time, he will find a new glory to protect and preserve so don't miss it."

ALSO READ: Go Ah Sung To Possibly Lead New Historical Drama This 2023

Furthermore, "Tale of the Nine Tailed 1938" airs for the first time on May 6 at 9:20 p.m. KST on tvN! Watch the teaser below, ICYMI:

KDramaStars owns this article.

Written by Elijah Mully.
Agriculture Minister David Marit at Government House in Regina on Monday Nov. 9, 2020. Marit says he requested a public service medal be returned after learning the man awarded the honour was charged with domestic violence. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Michael Bell
The Pleasant Prairie Police Department announced it will collaborate with the LGBT Center of SE Wisconsin to provide safe zone training for its command staff.

Capt. Paul Marik said the Village department had provided a security assessment of the Racine-based organization and provided training to the centers staff, a service the department provides to area businesses. In return, the center will teach staff about interacting with members of the LGBT community.

Marik said the goal of the training is to improve the departments ability to serve Pleasant Prairie, addressing potential blind spots staff might have regarding the LGBT community.

Theres going to be things were unaware of, Marik said.

He pointed to the departments mission statement, which repeatedly states the departments aim to be as well trained as possible to best serve the community.

Thats the goal. If were not hitting the mark, we want to do what we can to change that, Marik said. We wouldnt want people to be victims and not report it because they dont think theyll be taken seriously.

The announcement was met with both support and backlash online. Marik said a social media post about the effort was created to let people know the department was improving and adapting, as they seek to understand to do a better job.

I want to thank everyone who recognizes our work to improve the ways we interact with the public, Marik said.

See how many LGBT people have children in Wisconsin See how many LGBT people have children in Wisconsin
Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has again called for the development of international mechanisms guaranteeing the implementation of a possible peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

April 18, 2023, 13:52 War could erupt even the next day of signing possible peace treaty without international mechanisms, warns Pashinyan

STEPANAKERT, APRIL 18, ARTSAKHPRESS-ARMENPRESS: Without such mechanisms, a new war or escalation could happen even a day after signing the treaty, Pashinyan warned.

Speaking about the mutual recognition of each others territorial integrity by Armenia and Azerbaijan, PM Pashinyan said that Armenia itself offered to attach the maps of the Armenian and Azerbaijani SSRs  approved by the USSR  to the treaty as the basis of territorial integrity of the two countries.

"But it is here that we reach the biggest and most difficult problem, Nagorno Karabakh. And there is a nuance, which has been highly urgent during the past sixteen years, but we havent addressed it. The problem is that usually we address and have addressed the future of Nagorno Karabakh, but it is important to address the issue of Nagorno Karabakhs situation at any moment during the existence of the conflict, Pashinyan said. He said he attempted to do this several times during the past five years, but regrettably the issue transforms into a dispute between the opposition and the government, which is also normal.

During the entire course of the Nagorno Karabakh conflict, the principles of territorial integrity and self-determination were placed side by side. This actually recorded realities which we cannot admit, but regardless of admitting or not, they exist. In this context, the right to self-determination means that you, as a beneficiary of the right to self-determination, are raising the issue of revising your, so to say, nominal A status. Theoretically this could mean to revise the A status and make it a B status, or revise it and not change it, or revise it and make it A+1 or A-1 status, Pashinyan said. But without noting the A status, with this logic there cant be any talk about any future status, meaning the self-determination.

If you raise the issue of self-determination it means you are part of something. If you are a part of something, youve either already self-determined or dont have the need to self-determination. Now, with our own hands, during the time known to you, we have created this negotiations, political, geopolitical reality, cemented it, but after that weve said we want a B status for Nagorno Karabakh, but weve never publicly accepted the A status. Weve lied to ourselves with this, the people of Armenia, the people of Nagorno Karabakh, Pashinyan said, adding that there wont be peace until they face this fact. Pashinyan said he considers his political commitment to be peace. In this context, Pashinyan attached high importance to the development of an international mechanism for dialogue between Baku and Stepanakert to ensure the implementation of the rights and security agenda of the Armenians of Nagorno Karabakh.

It is highly important that international mechanisms guaranteeing the possible peace treaty implementation get developed, otherwise war or new escalation could erupt the next day of the signing of the treaty, Pashinyan said.

He also highlighted the opening of economic and transport connections, noting that as stipulated by the 9 November statement, the roads must be reopened under the sovereignty and legislation of the parties.
One early evening in June, we sat in the second row of a Health Sciences Building classroom with 79 other students enrolled in the Summer Medical and Dental Education Program (SMDEP). We were excited to hear a guest lecture from a program alumnus, a clinician who shared that he, too, had lived in an underserved community, had Medicaid insurance, and relied on community clinics growing up. He concluded his presentation by stating that he was now a successful doctor who enjoyed serving his community. Aside from his inspiring success story, a quick Google search revealed that this doctor worked at his own private practice, primarily serving Washingtons wealthiest patients. When we asked if he saw patients with Medicaid insurance, he confirmed that he did not. This sparked a low murmur in the room, as most of us felt disappointed to know that this doctorwho understood the struggles of accessing care through Medicaidchose not to serve those in need.

Although some health care providers may not accept Medicaid, it remains the largest payer for health care in the United States, covering 72 million people in 2020. The importance of Medicaid programs in improving access to health care and reducing the rate of uninsured individuals cannot be overstated. A recent Annals study by Ndumele et al. found that Medicaid enrollment provides significant stability in health insurance coverage, with fewer enrollees losing coverage over time compared to those with private insurance. Other studies have similarly shown the crucial role of Medicaid programs in promoting health equity and improving health outcomes, particularly for low-income individuals. Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act has been associated with increased insurance coverage, improved care access, and increased preventive service utilization.

However, despite the vast number of people covered by Medicaid, access to care is often limited. One of the biggest challenges facing Medicaid patients is finding doctors who accept Medicaid insurance. The availability of Medicaid providers varies significantly across states and even within states, leading to disparities in the number of providers accepting Medicaid. This limits access to care for low-income individuals and underscores the need to increase government reimbursements to health care clinics accepting Medicaid. A low reimbursement rate often results in providers not accepting Medicaid insurance, limiting the number of providers willing to see Medicaid patients. Policymakers must take a proactive approach to strengthen and expand Medicaid programs to ensure that all individuals, regardless of income, can access care and take advantage of preventive services.

Despite the clear benefits of increasing government reimbursements, some critics argue that doing so could increase taxpayers health care costs. However, this argument ignores the fact that Medicaid patients already receive care through the program. By incentivizing doctors to accept Medicaid patients, the government is not creating new demand for health care services but simply ensuring that a sufficient supply of health care providers meets existing demand. Moreover, the program already partially covers the cost of providing health care services to Medicaid patients. By increasing reimbursement rates, the government can ensure that this coverage is sufficient to attract a robust network of health care providers.

To ensure that low-income individuals can access care without traveling long distances or struggling to find clinics that accept their insurance, the government must increase their reimbursements to health care clinics. This would incentivize more clinics to accept Medicaid insurance and provide more options for low-income individuals to receive care close to their homes or access specialized care. The stability in coverage and improved access to care provided by Medicaid programs are critical for reducing health disparities and improving health outcomes for low-income populations. As health care professionals, we are responsible for advocating for policies that promote equity and ensuring that all patients, regardless of their insurance status, have access to the care they need.



Fatima Al-Shimari is an epidemiologist. Miram Al-Saedy and Salsabeal Al-Saedy are medical students.
In health care, as in life, people devote a lot of time and attention to the way things should be. Theyd be better off focusing on what actually could be.

As an example, 57% to 70% of American voters believe our nation should adopt a single-payer health care system like Medicare for all. Likewise, public health advocates insist that more of the nations $4 trillion health care budget should be spent on combating the social determinants of health: things like housing insecurity, low-wage jobs, and other socioeconomic stresses. Neither of these ideas will happen, nor will dozens of positive health care solutions that should happen.

When the things that should happen dont, theres always a reason. In health care, the biggest roadblock to change is what I call the conglomerate of monopolies, which includes hospitals, drug companies, private-equity-staked physicians, and commercial health insurers. These powerful entities exert monopolistic control over the delivery and financing of the countrys medical care. And they remain fiercely opposed to any change in health care that would limit their influence or income.

This article concludes my five-part series on medical monopolies with an explanation of why (a) should wont happen in health care but (b) industrywide disruption will.

Why government wont lead the way.

With the U.S. Senate split 51-49 and with virtually no chance of either party securing the 60 votes needed to avoid a filibuster, Congress will, at most, tinker with the medical system. That means no Medicare For All and no radical redistribution of health care funds.

Even if elected officials started down the path of major reform, health cares incumbents would lobby, threaten to withhold campaign contributions (which have exceeded $700 million annually for the past three years), and swat down any legislative effort that might harm their interests.

In American politics, money talks. That wont change soon, even if voters believe it should.

American employers wont lead, either.

Private payers wield significant power and influence of their own. In fact, the Fortune 500 represents two-thirds of the U.S. GDP, generating more than $16 trillion in revenue. And they provide health insurance to more than half the American population.

With all that clout, youd think business executives would demand more from health cares conglomerate of monopolies. You might assume theyd want to push back against the prevailing fee for service payment model, replacing it with a form of reimbursement that rewards doctors and hospitals for the quality (not quantity) of care they provide. Youd think they would insist that employees get their care through technologically advanced, multispecialty medical groups, which deliver superior outcomes when compared to solo physician practices.

Instead, companies take a more passive position. In fact, employers are willing to shoulder 5% to 6% increases in insurance premiums each year (double their average rate of revenue growth) without putting up much or any resistance.

One reason they tolerate hefty rate hikesrather than battling insurers, hospitals, and doctors involves a surprising truth about insurance premiums. Business leaders have figured out how to transfer much of their added premium costs to employees in the form of high-deductible health plans. A high deductible plan forces the beneficiary to pay first dollar for their medical care, significantly reducing the premium cost the employer pays.

Businesses also realize that high deductibles will only financially burden employees who experience an unexpected, catastrophic illness or accident. Meaning, most workers wont feel the sting in a typical year. As for employees with ongoing, expensive medical problems, employers typically dont mind watching them walk out the door over high out-of-pocket costs. Their departures only reduce the companys medical spend in future years.

Finally, businesses know that employee medical costs are tax deductible, which cushions the impact of premium increases. So, what starts as a 6% annual increase ends up costing employees 3%, the government 1%, and businesses only 2%. In todays strong labor market, which boasts the lowest unemployment rate in 54 years, businesses are reluctant to demand changes from health cares biggest playersregardless of whether they should.

Leading the health care transformation

If there were a job opening for Leader of the American Healthcare Revolution, the applicant pool would be shallow.

Elected officials would shy away, fearing the loss of campaign contributions. Businesses and top executives would pass on the opportunity, preferring to shift insurance costs to employees and the government. Patients would feel overwhelmed by the task and the power of the incumbents. Despite their frustrations with the current system, doctors, nurses, and hospitals would want to take small steps, fearful of the conglomerate of monopolies and the risks of disruptive change.

To revolutionize American medicine, a leader must possess three characteristics:

Sufficient size and financial reserves to disrupt the entire industry (not just a small piece of it). Presence across the country to leverage economies of scale. Willingness to accept the risks of radical change in exchange for the potential to generate massive profits.

Whoever leads the way wont make these investments because it should happen. They will take the chance because the upside is dramatically better than sitting on the sidelines.

The likely winner: American retailers

Amazon, CVS, Walmart, and other retail giants are the only entities that fit the revolutionary criteria above. In health cares game of monopoly, theyre the ones willing to take high-stakes risks and capable of disrupting the industry.

For years, these retailers have been acquiring the necessary game pieces (including pharmacy services, health-insurance capabilities, and innovative care-delivery organizations) to someday take over American health care.

CVS Health owns health insurer Aetna. It bought value-based care company Signify Health for $8 billion and national primary care provider OakStreet Health for $10.6 billion. Walmart recently entered into a 10-year partnership with the nations largest insurance company, UnitedHealth, gaining access to its 60,000 employed physicians. Walmart then acquired LHC, a massive home health provider. Finally, Amazon recently purchased primary-care provider One Medical for $3.9 billion and maintains close ties with nearly all of the countrys self-funded businesses.

Harvard business professor Clay Christensen noted that disruptive change almost always comes from outsiders. Thats because incumbents cling to overly expensive and inefficient systems. The same holds true in American health care.

The retail giants can see that health care is exorbitantly priced, uncoordinated, inconvenient, and technologically devoid. And they recognize the hundreds of billions of dollars of revenue they could earn by offering a consumer-focused, highly efficient alternative.

How will the transformation happen?

Initially, I believe the retail giants will take a two-pronged approach. Theyll (a) continue to promote fee-for-service medical services through their pharmacies and retail clinics (in-store and virtual) while (b) embracing every opportunity to grow their market share in Medicare Advantage, the capitated option for people over age 65.

And within Medicare Advantage, theyll look for ways to leverage sophisticated IT systems and economies of scale, thus providing better coordinated, technologically supported care, and lower cost than whats available now.

Rather than including all community doctors in their network, theyll rely on their own clinicians, augmented by a limited cohort of the highest-performing medical groups in the area. And rather than including every hospital as an inpatient option, theyll contract with highly respected centers of excellence for procedures like heart surgery, neurosurgery, total-joint replacement, and transplants, trading high volume for low prices.

Over time, theyll reach out to self-funded businesses to offer proven, superior clinical outcomes, plus guaranteed, lower total costs. Then theyll make a capitated model their preferred insurance plan for all companies and individuals. Along the way, theyll apply consumer-driven medical technologies, including next generations of ChatGPT, to empower patients, provide continuous care for people with chronic diseases and ensure the medical care provided is safe and most efficacious.

Tommy Lasorda, the long-time manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers, once remarked, There are three types of people. Those who watch what happens, those that make it happen, and those who wonder what just happened.

Lasordas quip describes health care today. The incumbents are watching closely but failing to see the big picture as retailer acquire medical groups and home health capabilities. The retail giants are making big moves, assembling the pieces needed to transform American medicine as we think of it today completely. Finally, tens of thousands of clinicians and thousands of hospital administrators are either ignoring or underestimating the retail giants. And, when they get left behind, theyll wonder: What just happened?

The conglomerate of monopolies rules medicine today. Amazon, CVS, and Walmart believe they should rule. And if I had to bet on who would win, Id put my money on the retail giants.

Robert Pearl is a plastic surgeon and author of Uncaring: How the Culture of Medicine Kills Doctors and Patients. He can be reached on Twitter @RobertPearlMD.
The Republic of Armenia fully recognizes Azerbaijans territorial integrity and expects Azerbaijan to do the same by recognizing the entire territory of the Armenian SSR as the Republic of Armenia, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has said.

April 18, 2023, 14:14 Armenia fully recognizes Azerbaijans territorial integrity, expects same from Baku  PM Pashinyan

STEPANAKERT, APRIL 18, ARTSAKHPRESS-ARMENPRESS: The peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan would become realistic if the two countries recognize each others territorial integrity without ambiguities and traps and assume obligation to not make territorial claims against each other, now or ever, Pashinyan said in parliament.

Pashinyan reminded that such an agreement was reached with the Azerbaijani president during their meetings in Prague and Sochi on October 6 and October 31 in 2022 respectively.

Nevertheless, official statements are heard both from Yerevan and Baku accusing the other side of not adhering to the agreements. I want to reiterate that the Republic of Armenia fully recognizes Azerbaijans territorial integrity and we expect Azerbaijan to do the same, by recognizing the entire territory of the Armenian SSR as Republic of Armenia, Pashinyan said.

Pashinyan said that Azerbaijans accusations that Armenia is refusing to fully recognize Azerbaijans territorial integrity during the peace treaty talks are untrue.

He said that Armenia itself offered to attach the maps of the Armenian and Azerbaijani SSRs  approved by the USSR  to the treaty as the basis of territorial integrity of the two countries.
On April 15 and 16, a total of 21 medical patients from Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) were transferred to Armenia by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), the Artsakh Information Center informs.

April 18, 2023, 15:33 21 more medical patients from Artsakh transferred to Armenia, 20 others return after completing treatment

STEPANAKERT, APRIL 18, ARTSAKHPRESS: And 20 medical patients, who were transferred to Armenia for treatment within the framework of state funding, returned to Artsakh with their companions.

The transfer of medical patients from Artsakh to Armenia continues to be carried out exclusively with the mediation and escorting of the ICRC.
Under the hashtag #KampalaPotholeExhibition, various Ugandans on Monday launched an online campaign to highlight the poor roads in the countrys capital city, Kampala.

The campaign is running mainly on the social media platform, Twitter, where concerned citizens both in Uganda and abroad have gone on to poke holes in Kampalas road system. Social media users have taken an initiative to capture pictures of potholes in various parts of the city which they upload with captions indicating their exact location.

Those abroad have contributed to the hashtag by quoting, retweeting, and tagging government officials and agencies such as Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), and Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) among others.

Namugoona  Bawalakata Road, 3months ago, @KCCAUG told me they notified the team about this, a month ago @kasyate told me he forwarded to the contractor for action. Situation getting worser, Twitter user Tumwesige Andrew Muyomba captioned his pictures on Tuesday.

Kampala pothole Docuseries. #Industrialarea, media personality Lucky Mbabazi captioned her video showing potholes in the industrial area.

While it remains unclear when the pothole exhibition will end, some social media users have started sharing fruits of the hashtag. Some workers have been captured on the streets of Kampala filling up the potholes with soil.

Meanwhile, UNRA took to their Twitter platform on Tuesday to show off their new mobile trucks that will be supporting road maintenance operations.

Weve acquired a new fleet of mobile station trucks to support road maintenance operations and ensure efficient service delivery across our entire road network. This allows for repairs on-site; especially useful in remote areas or during emergency repairs, UNRA tweeted.

In an interview with KFM recently, the Executive Director of Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), Dorothy Kisaka revealed that the public outcry over potholed city roads will not last long as the authority is working to urgently address the matter.

She was responding to a Sunday Monitor reader, David Bizimana who pointed out the bad state of the road connecting to Naguru Hospital via Naguru remand home towards Uganda Police Headquarters in his letter to the publications editor.

Follow more tweets under the hashtag #KampalaPotholeExhibition
Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) is on the spot after losing over 3900 result slips for students who sat for Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE) in 2019.

A group of parents with about 200 pupils from Greenhill Academy, Kibuli have since petitioned the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) and KCCA through Lex Uganda Advocates and Solicitors, asking the examination body to reprint pass slips of all the affected students in 14 days from April 14 when the notice was issued.

The UNEB Executive Director, Mr. Daniel Odongo, has told KFM that KCCA is solely responsible for the loss of the results slips for learners from the 51 schools in Kampala.

He says the city authority has to fulfill a number of conditions before they can re-print the affected result slips.

Without giving details of how the result slips got lost, the KCCA deputy executive director, Eng. David Luyimbazi says they are handling the matter.
The ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party parliamentary caucus is set to meet on Thursday, April 20 at State House.

According to a notice issued by the Government Chief Whip and the chairperson of the NRM parliamentary caucus, Hamson Obua, NRM Members of Parliament (MPs) will convene at State House, Entebbe to discuss among others the Anti Homosexuality Bill, 2023.

Obua has tasked MPs to do Covid-19 tests between today and tomorrow if they are to attend the caucus meeting that is likely to be chaired by the partys national chairperson who also doubles as the president, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.

The purpose of the meeting is to discuss among others, The Anti-Homosexuality Bill, 2023. All Hon. Members are required to undertake a COVID Test on Tuesday 18. Apri1,2023, (1:00pm- 5:00pm), and Wednesday 19. Apri1,2023 (9:00am-5:00pm), Parliamentary Conference Hall, Obuas letter reads in part.

The Bill passed by Parliament last month introduced tough penalties for same-sex activities including; death for aggravated homosexuality, as well as imprisonment of up to 20 years for acts of homosexuality, promoting homosexuality, child grooming, and promotion of homosexuality.

The president has been put under pressure by local and international rights groups including the US not to assent to the Bill.

Deputy SpeakerThomas Tayebwa, Minister for Presidency Milly Babalanda, NRM party Secretary General Richard Todwong, Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, and Vice President Jessica Alupo welcome President Museveni for the NRM Parliamentary Caucus meeting at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds yesterday. PHOTO/PPU
The opposition in parliament has mounted pressure on the government to rescue Ugandans trapped in Khartoum, Sudan where fights erupted over the weekend following long-drawn-out political tensions.

After months of tension in the neighboring country, fighting erupted two days ago between the army and a powerful paramilitary force known as the Rapid Support Forces which has led to over 100 deaths and thousands injured.

Speaking to the media at parliament led by the shadow minister of Foreign affairs Muwada Nkunyingi, opposition MPs urged government to rescue trapped Ugandans before the situation worsens.

Legislators noted that they have received several distress calls from Ugandans who are currently stranded in the battlefield. The opposition blames the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for failure to issue timely travel advice to Ugandans.

However, Dr. Rashid Yahya Semuddu, Ugandas Ambassador to Khartoum has assured the public that all Ugandans in Khartoum are safe despite crossfire.
The Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Mr. Thomas Tayebwa has directed the Minister for Kampala, Minsa Kabanda, to table a status report of roads in Kampala that are in a sorry state.

This was during todays plenary sitting. Tayebwa is concerned about the photos on social media showing different roads within the city which are impassable, something he said is ashaming the country.

Tayebwa ordered Kabanda without fail to table a report to parliament next week on Tuesday detailing the amount of money received by Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) on maintenance of roads for the past three years, the number of roads worked upon, and their current status.

Honourable minister for Kampala, next week, I need you on Tuesday to bring a statement to the House on how much money KCCA has received for road construction and maintenance for the last three years, Tayebwa said.
The Southern Cayuga Anne Frank Tree Project will present a talk by Dr. Sandra Steingraber as part of the annual Difference Makers Night on Thursday, April 27.

Steingraber is a climate activist, biologist, author, retired Ithaca College professor and cancer survivor who is one of the leaders of the anti-fracking movement in New York state, which won a ban on the practice in 2014. She is also subject of the award-winning documentary "Unfractured" and author of "Living Downstream: An Ecologist Looks at Cancer and the Environment."

This year's Difference Makers Night will mark the 10th anniversary of the Southern Cayuga Anne Frank Tree Project, a nonprofit whose mission is education and empowering students and the community on issues of social justice and equity. The group was founded after the school district was awarded a sapling from the horse chestnut tree that grew outside Frank's hiding place from the Nazis.

Difference Maker Award winners this year are longtime community activist Trudy Buxenbaum and Southern Cayuga students Katie Turek and Finn Turner.

The event will begin with pizza and beverages at 6 p.m. in the cafeteria of Southern Cayuga High School, 2384 Route 34B, Poplar Ridge. Steingraber's talk will follow at 7 p.m.

The event is free and open to the public.

For more information, visit sccsannefranktree.org/difference-makers-night.
Feile Lachtain 2023 was launched in Freshford on Saturday by Chair of Kilkenny County Council Pat Fitzpatrick.

In his address, Cllr Fitzpatrick signalled the one-day loan by the National Museum of the Shrine of St Lachtains Arm to Ionad Lachtain in Freshford as the single most important cultural event in the county this year. This event will happen on Saturday, June 17.

Ionad Lachtain Church, Arts and Heritage Centre is based at St Lachtains Church of Ireland, Freshford.

The centre was established in 2017 in order to promote the Church of St Lachtain as a visitor and heritage centre.

In his address, Cllr Fitzpatrick congratulated the Ionad Lachtain committee on its endeavours since its foundation. He noted the presence of a local museum and the benefit of having an outlet for local craft workers in Freshford.

He acknowledged the enlightened approach of the authorities at the National Museum in facilitating the display of one of the Treasures of Ireland outside the capital city for the first time. He encouraged everyone to avail of the opportunity of seeing this important piece of our heritage in a local setting.

The launch of Feile Lachtain 2023 was followed by the first lecture of the year. There was a warm welcome for author Siobhan Doyles talk on her book A History of the GAA in 100 Objects.

Siobhan outlined some of the items which caught her attention during her research and highlighted those with a Kilkenny connection.

Following the lecture, Cllr Fitzpatrick unveiled a painting by local artist Larry Hamilton. The painting consists of an artistic interpretation of the hymn Lachtain Naofa written in calligraphy and surrounded by a floral motif. Lachtain Naofa was composed by the late Tom Waldron in 1984 in honour of the patron saint of Freshford.

Harpist Mary Kelly opened and closed the proceedings last Saturday. It was revealed that Mary had turned down the opportunity to play at the welcome home ceremony for President Biden in Ballina on Friday night in order to play in her native Freshford.

The next item on the Feile Lachtain 2023 programme will take place this weekend when Fleadh Cheoil Chill Chainnigh returns to the village for the second year in a row. The highlight of the weekend will be the Fleadh Cheoil Concert in Ionad Lachtain on Saturday night.
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(Kitco News) - Calibre Mining (TSX: CXB) announced on Tuesday that mining commenced at its 100% owned, new high-grade Eastern Borosi open pit mine operation in Nicaragua.

The companys Eastern Borosi gold-silver property is located in the northeastern Nicaraguan low-sulphidation, epithermal district that hosts numerous high-grade, gold-silver vein systems.

The vein systems hosting the current inferred resource of 4,418,000 tonnes at 4.9 g/t Au and 80 g/t Ag containing 700,500 Au ounces and 11,359,000 Ag ounces remain open to further expansion along with numerous undrilled targets.

President and CEO Darren Hall stated, Mining from the Guapinol open pit at Eastern Borosi commenced on schedule and marks another significant milestone in Calibres efforts to deliver on expectations and organically grow gold production.

With Eastern Borosi open pit reserves at Guapinol of 6.8 g/t gold, we remain on track to deliver consolidated production of 250,000  275,000 ounces in 2023, a 20% increase over 2022. After inclusion of this additional high-grade ore, over one million tonnes of surplus processing capacity remains at our Libertad mill, demonstrating the potential for additional future growth.

Calibre also said that, as part of its 2023 exploration program, the company has two rigs drilling within the 176 km2 Eastern Borosi land package, which hosts numerous low sulphidation gold-silver vein deposits and targets and strong potential for discovery of new zones and expanded resources.

Calibre Mining is a Canadian-listed, Americas focused, growing mid-tier gold producer with a pipeline of development and exploration opportunities across Nevada and Washington in the USA, and Nicaragua.
U.S. Rep. Brandon Williams achieved a milestone on Monday when the House of Representatives passed a resolution he authored to condemn Russia.

Williams, R-Sennett, introduced the resolution in response to Russia's actions that led to the downing of a U.S. drone that was flying over the Black Sea. The measure was cosponsored by three members of Congress, including U.S. Rep. Jim Costa, a California Democrat.

The House passed the resolution by a 410-0 vote. It is the first Williams-sponsored measure to be approved by the House.

"Russia continues to act in an irresponsible and reckless manner on the world stage," Williams said. "Now, the Russian military has directly interfered with a United States Air Force drone acting lawfully in international airspace. This resolution categorically condemns the Russian military's actions and expresses that any attempt by the Russians to recover our drone is a threat to U.S. national security."

According to Congress.gov, Williams has sponsored five bills or resolutions since taking office in January. His first bill would prevent states like New York from lowering the overtime threshold for farmworkers to below 60 hours a week. New York is in the process of phasing in a 40-hour overtime threshold for farmworkers over the next decade.

Williams also authored legislation that would prevent federal funding of research in China and a separate bill that would, according to its summary, "preclude absolute liability in any action against a property owner or contractor" for infrastructure projects receiving federal assistance.

A resolution introduced by Williams, a former U.S. Navy nuclear submarine officer, marks the 60th anniversary of the USS Thresher's sinking off the coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts.
LONDON, April 18 (Reuters) - HSBC's management has "fundamentally failed to address key business model challenges", the bank's biggest shareholder Ping An said on Tuesday, in an escalation of a spat between Europe's biggest bank and the Chinese insurer.

HSBC should separate its Asia business into a Hong Kong-listed entity, Ping An said, in an update to proposals it began urging last November calling for the bank to spin off its Asia business.

The renewed salvo from Ping An comes as shareholder advisory group Glass Lewis urged investors to vote against proposals calling for a strategic review and dividend policy revamp, deepening divisions between factions of the bank's ownership ahead of its annual meeting on May 5.

"We believe that a structural solution which creates a separately listed Asia business headquartered in Hong Kong will crystallize multiple benefits to all HSBC Group shareholders," Ping An said.

HSBC reiterated its stance that the proposals lack merit.

"It is our judgment, supported by third-party financial and legal advice, and with third-party assurance, that alternative structural options will not deliver increased value for shareholders," a spokesperson for the bank said.

Glass Lewis said the strategic review proposal, filed by individual shareholder Ken Lui in Hong Kong and backed by Ping An, was "not in shareholders' interest".

Lui's resolutions demand HSBC restore dividends to 51 cents per share and provide regular updates on strategy, including the possibility of spinning off its Asia business.

"In our view, the board's strategy and plans appear valid and are likely to result in greater returns and value, on a risk and cost-adjusted basis, than the overly prescriptive and, in our opinion, unnecessary proposals submitted by the proponent," Glass Lewis said in a note to clients seen by Reuters on Tuesday.

The contrasting positions among HSBC shareholders reflect a deep divide over the direction of Europe's biggest bank, which has struggled in recent years to deliver on long-term profit targets and lift its share price.

Since Ping An began pushing for the Asia spin-off last November, the bank has tried to accelerate plans to exit retail banking in underperforming Western markets such as France and Canada, seeking to deliver on a promise to 'pivot' to Asia.

The Chinese insurer, with an 8% shareholding in the bank, would not be able to force a break-up on its own and has so far shown little evidence that it has convinced other large institutional backers of HSBC that its plan has merit.
April 18 (Reuters) - U.S. weapons maker Lockheed Martin Corp's (LMT.N) first-quarter results surpassed Wall Street targets on Tuesday despite parts and labor shortages, as simmering geopolitical tensions fueled demand from both U.S. and international customers.

Shares of the company rose as much as 2.3% to about $501 in premarket trading.

Rising tensions in Europe, the South China Sea and the Indo-Pacific region have translated to more orders for Lockheed's F-35 fighter aircraft, missiles and other defense equipments, driving quarterly net sales of $15.13 billion above estimates of $15.03 billion.

The Pentagon's $858 billion defense budget for 2023 has also resulted in multiple contract wins for U.S. defense firms such as Lockheed, Raytheon Technologies (RTX.N) and Northrop Grumman Corp (NOC.N), which count the U.S. Department of Defense as their biggest customer.

Bethesda, Maryland-based Lockheed reported GAAP earnings per share of $6.61, which included non-operational gains of $0.18 per share, and adjusted earnings of $6.43 per share for the first quarter ended March 26. Analysts were expecting profits of $6.06 per share.

During the quarter, Australia said it would buy 40 Black Hawk military helicopters made by Lockheed from the U.S. for about $1.96 billion as it boosts defense spending over issues with China's presence in the Indo-Pacific region.

Lockheed had also finalized a deal to sell 88 F-35 jets to Canada in a $14.2 billion project to replace the country's aging fleet of fighter aircraft.

Supply-chain issues stemming from the pandemic are still hurting F-35 production volumes though, pulling down sales at the company's aeronautics unit - its largest - by about 2.1% to $6.27 billion in the quarter.

Lockheed's order backlog also fell to $145.1 billion as of quarter-end from $150 billion at the end of 2022.

The missiles maker reaffirmed its full-year outlook, projecting net sales in the range of about $65 billion to $66 billion and profits between $26.60 per share and $26.90 per share.
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(Kitco News) Russia is building up its international reserves with assets that the West can't sanction, TASS quoted Russian Central Bank Governor Elvira Nabiullina as saying.

The central bank now structures its investment strategy with that in mind and refers to such assets as a safety cushion.

"We can now feel quite calm - our country has a 'safety cushion' of assets that are not subject to sanctions," Nabiullina said Tuesday. "We are building reserves based on what assets cannot be used for sanction pressure and how our foreign trade is changing."

The central bank governor added that she is working on finding ways to return the frozen dollar and euro reserves back to Russia.

Nabiullina pointed to a presidential decree that restricts "the withdrawal of funds from Russia by non-residents from unfriendly countries  [and] therefore we have a negotiating position on this issue," Nabiullina said.

The statement comes as Russia continues to reevaluate what assets it holds after around $300 billion, about half of the country's international reserves, was frozen due to sanctions following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Based on the bank's latest changes, it sees gold, the Chinese yuan, and other foreign currency held in cash as safe options.

In the meantime, G7 pledged to keep Russian assets frozen until the war in Ukraine ends. "We are determined  that Russia's sovereign assets in our jurisdictions will remain immobilized until there is a resolution of the conflict that addresses Russia's violation of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity," the G7 statement released Tuesday said. "Any resolution to the conflict must ensure Russia pays for the damage it has caused."
MOSCOW, April 18 (Reuters) - Russia's economic growth this year is likely to come in at the top end of the central bank's forecast range of between minus 1% and 1%, a senior bank official said on Tuesday.

In an interview broadcast on state TV, Deputy Governor Alexei Zabotkin said operational data from the first quarter of 2023 indicated growth was likely to fall "in the more optimistic part of this range".

Last week Russia's economy ministry raised its own 2023 GDP forecast to predict 1.2% growth, up from previous expectations for a 0.8% contraction, and the International Monetary Fund has also raised its forecasts for Russia recently - from 0.3% growth to 0.7%.

Russia's economy shrank 2.1% in 2022 under the pressure of Western sanctions and fallout from its military campaign in Ukraine.
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(Kitco News) - Patagonia Gold (TSXV: PGDC) was robbed on Monday when thieves gained access to the companys gold room at its Cap-Oeste project, located in the Santa Cruz province of Argentina.

The thieves gained access to the site and escaped with dore containing approximately 500 ounces of gold equivalent (AuEq), which represents approximately one month of production from Lomada and Cap-Oeste Projects. No employees were fatally injured during the robbery, although three suffered minor injuries. The robbery has been reported to the appropriate Argentine officials and the company is working with the authorities to investigate the incident.

The company has suspended production while it investigates the incident and determines how to implement additional security measures to reduce the likelihood of such an incident reoccurring in the future.
Azerbaijani Defense Minister Col-Gen Zakir Hasanov left for an official visit to Kazakhstan, Azernews reports.

The minister was invited by his Kazakh counterpart Col-Gen Ruslan Zhaksylykov.

Within the framework of the visit, the ministers plan to discuss the prospects for the development of bilateral cooperation in the military, military-technical, military-educational fields and other issues of mutual interest.

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.
Horizon's versatile ADAS solutions help take driving to the next level of comfort and safety

Shanghai, April 18, 2023 - Horizon Robotics, a leading provider of energy-efficient computing solutions for advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and automated driving (AD) for consumer vehicles, kicked off its presence at the Shanghai Auto Show 2023 by showcasing the company's full range of products, with a mission to enable a safer, more convenient and comfortable driving experience.

The company presented its leading Journey series computing solutions, displaying a powerful integration of software and hardware that reaches a new level of energy efficiency and reduces power consumption. Horizon Robotics also demonstrated versatile use cases of advanced driving assistance solutions, which are jointly developed with Tier-1 and software partners. The company's exhibit is a compelling demonstration that passenger vehicles are on their way to becoming a "third living space" beyond home and office, where passengers will have a better use of their time while reaching their destination safely.

During the press conference, Horizon disclosed the company's latest business achievements. Shipments of Horizon Journey series computing solutions have reached 3 million units to date, and are featured in over 120 car models from prominent Chinese automotive OEMs, including in innovative models from BYD, Li Auto and Geely. And More than 50 of these models have already been launched and reached full mass production. Horizon has established comprehensive partnerships and a rapidly growing ecosystem in China's automobile industry, including over 20 domestic and international automakers and nearly 100 hardware and software partners. At the Shanghai Auto Show, Horizon announced to expand its strategic collaborations with ZF, the world's foremost Tier-1 supplier for passenger vehicles. Through this new cooperation, Horizon and ZF will work together to develop high-performance smart driving solutions for automotive manufacturers in China.

"We are delighted to see our innovative computing solutions bring increasing value to the automotive industry and more importantly, to Chinese consumers, for a better and safer driving experience," said Dr. Yu Kai, Founder and CEO of Horizon Robotics. "We will continue to closely collaborate with automotive manufacturers and industry partners to bring the future of mobility to more consumers in China."
Shanghai (Gasgoo)- BYD's high-end sub-brand, Yangwang, put its U8 and U9 models and the Yangwang architecture on display at the Auto Shanghai 2023. Presale of the U8 kicked off at the same time.

Photo credit: Yangwang

Coming with two trim levels, luxury version and off-roader version, the U8 features a presale price of 1,098,000 yuan.

Photo credit: Yangwang

The U8 new energy off-roader rides on BYDs two major proprietary technologies, the e4 Platform and the NEV-dedicated DiSus-P intelligent hydraulic pressure vehicle body control system. The U8 churns out a maximum power of 1,100 HP and can zip from 0-100km/h in 3.6s. Installed with BYDs Blade battery, the model features a CLTC-rated range of 1,000km.

Photo credit: Yangwang

Uniquely, the U8 is installed with a 12.8-inch curved display at the center console that tilts at a 37 angle to fit users operating posture, creating an innovative and boundless cabin ambient.

Notably, the luxury edition of the U8 is equipped with an advance intelligent driving system, with 38 high-precision perception units, including 3 LiDAR units, 5 millimeter-wave radars, 14 ultrasonic sensors, and 16 cameras.

Delivery of the U8 luxury edition will start in September 2023, while delivery of the off-roader edition will come later, said Yangwang.

Photo credit: Yangwang

Aside from the U8, Yangwang also unveiled its U9 model at the event.
COLUMBIA  The Randolph County sheriff will not face charges related to a Feb. 3 incident, a special prosecutor decided Tuesday.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol opened an investigation into Sheriff Aaron Wilson at the request of Randolph County prosecuting attorney Stephanie Luntsford.

Audrain County prosecuting attorney Jacob Shellabarger was appointed as the special prosecutor in the case.

In a letter to MSHP Tuesday, Shellabarger said he has declined to file any charges. The letter refers to a Feb. 3 incident but does not share details on the matter.

"After an extensive investigation, review of reports and submitted items, including photos, video and audio, and consideration of Missouri law, I am declining to prosecute criminal charges resulting from this investigation," Shellabarger wrote. "I consider the investigation of this February 3 incident to be closed."

Luntsford said she requested Shellabarger to look into the incident because it would be "improper and inappropriate for me to make any statements regarding any potential or pending investigation in this or any other matter."

Wilson told the Moberly Monitor in February that it is "standard practice that an outside agency looks into any allegations that are made against an elected official.
78 year-old Bonnie Gooch was charged earlier this month with one count of stealing or attempting to steal from a financial institution after allegedly holding up a bank in Pleasant Hill, Mo.
A White 84-year-old homeowner who allegedly shot and wounded Ralph Yarl, a Black teen, after the 16-year-old went to the wrong home to pick up his siblings will face two felony charges, Clay County attorney Zachary Thompson announced early Monday evening.
Canyon Creek Food Company Ltd. (CVE:CYF  Get Rating) hit a new 52-week low during trading on Tuesday . The stock traded as low as C$0.02 and last traded at C$0.02, with a volume of 62000 shares. The stock had previously closed at C$0.03.

Canyon Creek Food Stock Down 40.0 %

The stock has a market cap of C$527,250.00, a price-to-earnings ratio of -0.15 and a beta of 2.16. The company has a 50 day simple moving average of C$0.03 and a 200 day simple moving average of C$0.04.

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Canyon Creek Food (CVE:CYF  Get Rating) last issued its earnings results on Monday, January 30th. The company reported C($0.01) EPS for the quarter. The business had revenue of C$4.22 million during the quarter.

About Canyon Creek Food

Canyon Creek Food Company Ltd. operates as a food processing company in Canada. The company provides fresh soups and other prepared food products. It offers its products to grocery retailers and various food service establishments comprising restaurants and institutions. Canyon Creek Food Company Ltd.

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LAS VEGASFlagship zBUCKz studio PeterFever has announced the debut of new limited series Tied Up Tuesday, a six-episode introduction to the Asian art of Shibari, a style of rope bondage.

The series stars Singaporean star Toolboi (Zed Sheng) in his first role in adult studio porn, and was lensed by Guy Criss at Las Vegas Kuma sex club. The series premieres on PeterFever.com today.

According to the company's announcement, "Kuma has been hosting Tied Up Tuesday as a safe space for patrons to indulge in consensual rope bondage play. Every Tuesday, guests are invited to bring ropes and gear to fulfill their deepest bondage fantasies. PeterFever has invited masters of rope to participate in an erotic stimulation of the senses, where lust knows no boundaries. Whether tied up and ready for action or tying each other in sensual rope play, you never know what sexy surprises you might find at Tied Up Tuesday. We welcome all to join us at PeterFever to enjoy this deep, dark erotic exploration into kinky rope bondage that will make your tits sizzle and penis pulsate."

For this project, PeterFever recruited some experienced practitioners and aficionados. Rigger and rope artist Dom Ellliot was on hand to help with tying and providing safety and proper procedures on set. Additionally, Tied Up Tuesday marks the embodiment of series star Toolbois long-standing fantasy of exposing his private turn-on to a wider viewing public. The cast also includes Ty Roderick, Jay Tee and Asian-American model Nolan Knox.

Ellliot stated, Bringing rope bondage into a shoot can be challenging, but the PeterFever production team and models were up to the task of planning what would be tied and how to take advantage of rope on the body to make a really hot scene. Im very proud of the final product!

Toolboi enthused, "Working with PeterFever was a fantastic experience for my debut in studio porn, and I am grateful for the patience and guidance of the producer, director and fellow performers. Ive followed PeterFever for a long time, and as the only North American porn studio that focuses on Asian performers, I am glad to be given the opportunity to work with them.

"The four days of filming in Las Vegas at gay sauna club Kuma was a bonding experience. The familial cohabitation experience helped the chemistry on screen with my scene partners and solidified camaraderie among us. We got to not just spend the days filming, but also the evenings having dinner, soaking in the hot tub, gym-ing and preparing for the scenes.

"I have been creating independent erotic bondage videos and photos with my husband Thiktool for the past couple of years. For this bondage-themed series, the PeterFever team brought on L.A.-based rope rigger Dom Ellliot to help with the rope rigging during the filming. Ellliots adaptability to the shifting conditions of the shoot helped make it a smooth filming experience. It was the first time for several of my co-performers to experience erotic rope bondage, and it was important for us to not only focus on the filming, but also build awareness about health, safety and consent around rope bondage.

"As a bondage enthusiast, I am thrilled to see my fantasies manifested onscreen. I hope to showcase the beauty and sensuality of rope bondage in this series. Based on what we experienced onset and viewing the daily rushes, we hope that weve managed to achieve it. I look forward to seeing the series released over the coming weeks, and hope it sparks a wider appreciation and curiosity around erotic rope bondage.

With the rise in popularity of rope bondage and shibari over the past few years, I wanted to invite some masters of the genre to create a truly special cinematic montage of beautiful men engaged in sexual rope play that will live up to the expectations of die-hard fans of the genre," said Zeeman, Tied Up Tuesday producer and WebMediaProz/zBUCKz CEO. "With the help of Toolboi (Zed Sheng) and Dom Ellliot, I truly think we achieved something magical, and I couldn't be happier with the end product. With this movie, we hope to not only please fans of rope bondage, but also turn on a whole new crowd to this very highly erotic fetish."

For more information, visit PeterFever.com.
StockNews.com began coverage on shares of China Green Agriculture (NYSE:CGA  Get Rating) in a report released on Friday. The brokerage issued a sell rating on the basic materials companys stock.

China Green Agriculture Stock Up 0.2 %

Shares of CGA stock opened at $4.01 on Friday. The business has a 50 day moving average of $4.14 and a two-hundred day moving average of $4.69. China Green Agriculture has a 52 week low of $3.90 and a 52 week high of $10.28. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.01, a quick ratio of 1.98 and a current ratio of 2.73.

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China Green Agriculture (NYSE:CGA  Get Rating) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, February 21st. The basic materials company reported ($0.27) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. The firm had revenue of $24.54 million for the quarter. China Green Agriculture had a negative net margin of 37.35% and a negative return on equity of 36.71%.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On China Green Agriculture

China Green Agriculture Company Profile

An institutional investor recently bought a new position in China Green Agriculture stock. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP bought a new stake in shares of China Green Agriculture, Inc. ( NYSE:CGA Get Rating ) during the 1st quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm bought 11,368 shares of the basic materials companys stock, valued at approximately $115,000. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP owned approximately 0.13% of China Green Agriculture at the end of the most recent reporting period. 0.14% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

(Get Rating)

China Green Agriculture, Inc engages in the research, development, production, and sale of various types of fertilizers and agricultural products. It operates through the following segments: Jinong, Gufeng, and Yuxing. The Jinong segment includes fertilizer products, with focus on humic acid-based compound fertilizer.

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Franco-Nevada (TSE:FNV  Get Rating) (NYSE:FNV) had its target price lifted by stock analysts at National Bank Financial from C$200.00 to C$210.00 in a report released on Tuesday, The Fly reports. National Bank Financials target price suggests a potential upside of 1.18% from the companys current price.

Other analysts have also recently issued research reports about the stock. CIBC raised their target price on shares of Franco-Nevada from C$240.00 to C$245.00 in a research note on Monday. Bank of America increased their price target on Franco-Nevada from C$222.00 to C$226.00 in a research report on Wednesday, April 5th. Canaccord Genuity Group boosted their price target on Franco-Nevada from C$202.00 to C$214.00 in a research note on Tuesday, April 4th. BMO Capital Markets decreased their price objective on shares of Franco-Nevada from C$238.00 to C$237.00 in a research note on Friday. Finally, Stifel Nicolaus cut Franco-Nevada from a buy rating to a hold rating and cut their target price for the stock from C$206.00 to C$204.00 in a research note on Monday, January 23rd. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Franco-Nevada presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of C$205.20.

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Franco-Nevada Stock Up 0.0 %

Shares of Franco-Nevada stock traded up C$0.04 on Tuesday, reaching C$207.56. 150,154 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 377,147. The company has a 50-day moving average of C$189.49 and a 200 day moving average of C$185.28. Franco-Nevada has a one year low of C$151.08 and a one year high of C$212.57. The company has a market capitalization of C$39.83 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 42.34, a PEG ratio of 5.00 and a beta of 0.63. The company has a current ratio of 27.55, a quick ratio of 23.26 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.63.

About Franco-Nevada

Franco-Nevada Corporation operates as a gold-focused royalty and streaming company in Latin America, the United States, Canada, and internationally. It operates in two segments, Mining and Energy. The company manages its portfolio with a focus on precious metals, such as gold, silver, and platinum group metals; and energy comprising oil, gas, and natural gas liquids.

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Molson Coors Beverage (NYSE:TAP  Get Rating) had its price objective hoisted by Barclays from $50.00 to $52.00 in a report released on Friday, The Fly reports. The firm currently has an equal weight rating on the stock.

TAP has been the subject of several other reports. Roth Capital restated a buy rating on shares of Molson Coors Beverage in a report on Tuesday, February 21st. Cowen raised Molson Coors Beverage from a market perform rating to an outperform rating and increased their price objective for the company from $55.00 to $60.00 in a research report on Friday, January 6th. Credit Suisse Group increased their price objective on Molson Coors Beverage from $46.00 to $49.00 and gave the company an underperform rating in a research report on Wednesday, February 22nd. Citigroup started coverage on Molson Coors Beverage in a research report on Thursday, February 16th. They set a neutral rating and a $55.00 price objective on the stock. Finally, Cowen raised Molson Coors Beverage from a market perform rating to an outperform rating and increased their price objective for the company from $55.00 to $60.00 in a research report on Friday, January 6th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have issued a hold rating and three have given a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $53.33.

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Molson Coors Beverage Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:TAP opened at $56.98 on Friday. Molson Coors Beverage has a 1-year low of $46.69 and a 1-year high of $60.12. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.48, a current ratio of 0.78 and a quick ratio of 0.55. The business has a fifty day moving average price of $52.46 and a 200-day moving average price of $51.71. The company has a market capitalization of $12.32 billion, a PE ratio of -69.49, a PEG ratio of 3.53 and a beta of 0.83.

Molson Coors Beverage Increases Dividend

Molson Coors Beverage ( NYSE:TAP Get Rating ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, February 21st. The company reported $1.30 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.06 by $0.24. Molson Coors Beverage had a positive return on equity of 6.65% and a negative net margin of 1.37%. The firm had revenue of $2.63 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.65 billion. During the same period last year, the company earned $0.81 earnings per share. The companys revenue was up .4% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, equities analysts expect that Molson Coors Beverage will post 4.09 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 17th. Stockholders of record on Friday, March 3rd were given a dividend of $0.41 per share. This is a boost from Molson Coors Beverages previous quarterly dividend of $0.38. This represents a $1.64 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.88%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, March 2nd. Molson Coors Beverages payout ratio is presently -200.00%.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

A number of large investors have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Vanguard Group Inc. lifted its position in shares of Molson Coors Beverage by 6.1% during the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 21,329,879 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,138,589,000 after buying an additional 1,235,013 shares in the last quarter. State Street Corp lifted its position in shares of Molson Coors Beverage by 1.7% during the 1st quarter. State Street Corp now owns 8,727,747 shares of the companys stock valued at $465,887,000 after buying an additional 143,757 shares in the last quarter. LSV Asset Management lifted its position in shares of Molson Coors Beverage by 3.2% during the 3rd quarter. LSV Asset Management now owns 7,768,804 shares of the companys stock valued at $372,825,000 after buying an additional 239,558 shares in the last quarter. Clarkston Capital Partners LLC lifted its position in shares of Molson Coors Beverage by 3.6% during the 3rd quarter. Clarkston Capital Partners LLC now owns 6,173,932 shares of the companys stock valued at $296,287,000 after buying an additional 214,842 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Capital International Investors lifted its position in shares of Molson Coors Beverage by 1.0% during the 1st quarter. Capital International Investors now owns 4,721,084 shares of the companys stock valued at $252,011,000 after buying an additional 49,044 shares in the last quarter. 76.24% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Molson Coors Beverage Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Molson Coors Beverage Co is a holding company, which engages in the production and sale of beer. It operates through the following segments: Americas, and EMEA and APAC. The Americas segment operates in the U.S., Canada and various countries in the Caribbean, Latin, and South America. The EMEA and APAC segment operates in Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Montenegro, the Republic of Ireland, Romania, Serbia, the UK, various other European countries, and certain countries within the Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific.

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Saga Communications (NYSE:SGA  Get Rating) and E.W. Scripps (NYSE:SSP  Get Rating) are both small-cap consumer services companies, but which is the superior investment? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their earnings, risk, analyst recommendations, valuation, institutional ownership, dividends and profitability.

Valuation and Earnings

This table compares Saga Communications and E.W. Scripps revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

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Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Saga Communications $114.89 million 1.25 $9.31 million $1.52 15.46 E.W. Scripps $2.45 billion 0.32 $137.07 million $1.64 5.68

E.W. Scripps has higher revenue and earnings than Saga Communications. E.W. Scripps is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Saga Communications, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Risk and Volatility

Analyst Ratings

Saga Communications has a beta of 0.36, suggesting that its stock price is 64% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, E.W. Scripps has a beta of 1.82, suggesting that its stock price is 82% more volatile than the S&P 500.

This is a breakdown of recent recommendations for Saga Communications and E.W. Scripps, as reported by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Saga Communications 0 0 0 0 N/A E.W. Scripps 0 0 0 0 N/A

Profitability

This table compares Saga Communications and E.W. Scripps net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Saga Communications N/A N/A N/A E.W. Scripps N/A N/A N/A

Insider and Institutional Ownership

82.4% of Saga Communications shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 66.4% of E.W. Scripps shares are held by institutional investors. 17.8% of Saga Communications shares are held by company insiders. Comparatively, 3.6% of E.W. Scripps shares are held by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, large money managers and endowments believe a company is poised for long-term growth.

Dividends

Saga Communications pays an annual dividend of $1.00 per share and has a dividend yield of 4.3%. E.W. Scripps pays an annual dividend of $0.20 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.1%. Saga Communications pays out 65.8% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. E.W. Scripps pays out 12.2% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Both companies have healthy payout ratios and should be able to cover their dividend payments with earnings for the next several years.

About Saga Communications

(Get Rating)

Saga Communications, Inc. operates as a broadcasting company, which engages in the acquisition, development, and operation of broadcast properties. The company was founded by Edward K. Christian in 1986 and is headquartered in Grosse Pointe Farms, MI.

About E.W. Scripps

(Get Rating)

The E.W. Scripps Co. engages in television and newspaper publishing. It operates through the following business segments: Local Media, Scripps Networks, and Other. The Local Media segment consists of local broadcast television stations and their related digital operations. The Scripps Networks segment consists of national television networks. The company was founded in 1878 and is headquartered in Cincinnati, OH.

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Shares of Telecom Italia S.p.A. (OTCMKTS:TIIAY  Get Rating) hit a new 52-week high during trading on Tuesday . The stock traded as high as $3.48 and last traded at $3.45, with a volume of 40227 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at $3.38.

Telecom Italia Stock Performance

The businesss 50 day simple moving average is $3.27 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $2.64.

About Telecom Italia

(Get Rating)

Telecom Italia SpA engages in the provision of telecommunication and Internet services, digital contents, and cloud services. It operates through the following business segments: Domestic, Brazil, and Other Operations. The Domestic segment includes operations in Italy for voice and data services on fixed and mobile networks for retail and wholesale customers, the international wholesale through Telecom Italia Sparkle, and products and services for information technology through the Olivetti group.

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Shares of Westport Fuel Systems Inc. (TSE:WPRT  Get Rating) hit a new 52-week low during trading on Tuesday . The stock traded as low as C$0.94 and last traded at C$0.95, with a volume of 346440 shares. The stock had previously closed at C$1.06.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Separately, Royal Bank of Canada cut their price target on shares of Westport Fuel Systems from C$2.50 to C$1.50 and set a sector perform rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, March 15th.

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Westport Fuel Systems Stock Performance

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 37.47, a current ratio of 2.05 and a quick ratio of 1.54. The stocks 50 day simple moving average is C$1.37 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is C$1.26. The stock has a market cap of C$171.72 million, a P/E ratio of -3.80, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of -0.12 and a beta of 2.85.

Insider Buying and Selling at Westport Fuel Systems

About Westport Fuel Systems

In other Westport Fuel Systems news, Senior Officer David Mitchelhill Johnson acquired 50,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Thursday, March 23rd. The shares were acquired at an average price of C$0.85 per share, with a total value of C$42,500.00. Insiders own 11.53% of the companys stock.

(Get Rating)

Westport Fuel Systems Inc engages in the engineering, manufacturing, and supplying alternative fuel systems and components for use in transportation applications worldwide. The company operates through Original Equipment Manufacturer and Independent Aftermarket segments. It offers alternative fuel systems and components, which include a range of alternative fuels, such as liquefied petroleum gas, compressed natural gas, liquefied natural gas, renewable natural gas, and hydrogen; and independent aftermarket, light and heavy-duty original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and delayed OEMs, electronics, hydrogen, and fuel storage activities.

Further Reading

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StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of Xinyuan Real Estate (NYSE:XIN  Get Rating) in a report issued on Friday morning. The firm issued a hold rating on the financial services providers stock.

Xinyuan Real Estate Stock Performance

Xinyuan Real Estate stock opened at $3.30 on Friday. Xinyuan Real Estate has a 52-week low of $2.95 and a 52-week high of $11.90. The firm has a 50 day moving average price of $4.83 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $4.61.

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Institutional Trading of Xinyuan Real Estate

An institutional investor recently bought a new position in Xinyuan Real Estate stock. Atria Wealth Solutions Inc. acquired a new stake in Xinyuan Real Estate Co., Ltd. (NYSE:XIN  Get Rating) in the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The fund acquired 478,629 shares of the financial services providers stock, valued at approximately $536,000. Atria Wealth Solutions Inc. owned approximately 0.90% of Xinyuan Real Estate as of its most recent SEC filing. Institutional investors own 27.91% of the companys stock.

About Xinyuan Real Estate

Xinyuan Real Estate Co Ltd. is a holding company, which engages in the acquisition, investment, and development of real estate properties. It operates through the following geographical segments: Henan Province, Shandong Province, Jiangsu Province, Sichuan Province, Beijing, Hainan Province, Hunan Province, Shaanxi Province, Shanghai, Tianjin, Xinjiang, Zhuhai, and United States.

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Kendallville, IN (46755)

Today

Rain and snow this morning. The rain and snow will change to rain showers by the afternoon hours. High 44F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies. Widespread frost likely. Low 29F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph.
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Sometimes, social media can bring good things. Just ask Ryan Ellis, driver of the #43 Chevy for Alpha Prime Racing in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.

In early March, during the Las Vegas NASCAR race weekend, Ellis and the team went to Raising Canes Chicken Fingers. Ellis posted a pic on his Twitter account, with a simple request: Sponsor us @raisingcanes.

The post, which got over 38,000 views mustve caught the eye of someone at the company. Thats because Raising Canes will sponsor Ellis car at Talladega this Saturday.

You never know what happens if you dont shoot your shot.

Two years ago, Ryan Vargas did something similar. Having an unsponsored car for the next Xfinity Series race, Vargas reached out on Twitter for anyone who would be interested in sponsoring him. At that time, New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara was looking to sponsor someone in NASCAR. Kamara paired up with Vargas, and Kamaras The Big Squeezy company sponsored Vargas for the next race.

Sponsorship is very important in NASCAR, and even moreso if youre an underfunded team in a lower division. Chassis and engines are still expensive, but the TV and prize money isnt as big as in Cup. Thankfully, a social media post resulted in some much-needed sponsorship for Ryan Ellis and Alpha Prime Racing.

[Toby Christie]
By James Gamble via SWNS

The surprising way migratory birds muster the energy to endure cross-continental flights thousands of miles long has been discovered.

An American research team observed migratory birds in flight and found they burn vast amounts of protein early on in their journeys.

The breakthrough study has turned existing theories - which presumed migrating birds ramped up their protein consumption towards the end of their journey - completely on its head.

The scientists also discovered that birds burned fat at a consistent rate throughout their Odyssean flights and that they can burn a fifth of their muscle mass and build it back up in a matter of days.

Though the researchers admit they don't yet know exactly why the birds burn protein so early in their journeys, the possible answers open up a wide range of future research avenues.

To conduct their experiment, the study team led by researchers at the University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMass Amherst), captured dozens of migrating birds.

These birds, captured at the Long Point Bird Observatory in the central Canadian province of Ontario using "mist nets," were comprised of 20 blackpoll warblers - small songbirds which migrate each autumn from as far as Alaska in North America to the northernmost regions of South America - and 44 yellow-rumped warblers, a shorter-distance migrant.

Many songbirds in North America make twice-yearly, non-stop migratory flights of more than 1,000 miles to travel from their breeding to their winter grounds - flapping their wings for incredible stints of up to 100 hours without rest.

The study team then transported these birds to the Advanced Facility for Avian Research at Western University in Ontario, which boasts a specialized wind tunnel for observing birds in flight.

The researchers measured the birds' fat and lean body mass prior to their flight and, after waiting for the sun to set - because the birds migrate at night - let them loose in the wind tunnel.

The team would then stay awake - at one point for an impressive stint of 28 hours - watching for when a bird would decide to take a rest.

At this point, the scientists would collect the resting bird to again measure its fat and lean body mass content.

On comparing these measurements with those taken pre-flight, the scientists discovered that the birds fueled themselves by burning lots of fat and a surprising amount of protein early on in their flights, as they needed to use every ounce of muscle to continuously flap their wings.

Dr. Cory Elowe, the papers lead author and a postdoctoral researcher in biology at UMass Amherst, explained why the results were so surprising.

He said: "Birds are amazing animals.

"They are extreme endurance athletes; a bird that weighs half an ounce can fly, non-stop, flapping for 100 hours at a time, from Canada to South America.

"How is this possible? How do they fuel their flights?

"The birds in our tests burned fat at a consistent rate throughout their flights.

"But we also found that they burn protein at an extremely high rate very early in their flights, and that the rate at which they burn protein tapers off as the duration of the flight increases.

"One of the biggest surprises was that every bird still had plenty of fat left when it chose to end its flight.

But their muscles were emaciated. Protein, not fat, seems to be a limiting factor in determining how far birds can fly."

Alexander Gerson, an associate professor of biology at UMass Amherst and the papers senior author, added: "This is a new insight.

"No one has been able to measure protein burn to this extent in birds before.

"We knew that birds burned protein, but not at this rate, and not so early in their flights.

Whats more, these small songbirds can burn 20 percent of their muscle mass and then build it all back in a matter of days."

Despite the researchers admitting they don't yet know quite why the birds burn such vast amounts of protein early on in their migratory journeys, they add that the possible answers throw open a wide range of future avenues of research.

Dr. Gerson questioned: "How exactly is it possible to burn up your muscles and internal organs and then rebuild them as quickly as these birds do?

"What insights into the evolution of metabolism might these birds yield?".

Dr. Elowe adds the shivering of birds to stay warm during winter is also a subject deserving of further research, saying: "This is also a feat of endurance.

"Do birds fuel their winter shivering spells the same way as migrating?

"And, as the world warms, which method of coping with the cold - shivering or migrating - might be the better option for survival?

The study's results were published recently in the scientific journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
An East Noble school bus stops at the railroad tracks on Ohio Street next to the Kraft-Heinz plant, where a train engine is parked just north of the crossing. The city is reminding people to stop at the crossing, as traffic has picked up on Ohio Street recently due to construction on Drake Road.
Auburn, IN (46706)

Today

Rain and snow this morning changing to rain showers late. High near 45F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%..

Tonight

Some clouds this evening will give way to mainly clear skies overnight. Widespread frost likely. Low 29F. Winds light and variable.
Auburn, IN (46706)

Today

Steady light rain this morning. Showers continuing this afternoon. High near 45F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies. Widespread frost likely. Low around 30F. Winds light and variable.
I didnt see anyone doing it, so I felt like it needed to happen, said Colin Denny, who provided a sign language performance at this years Superbowl. We need someone to take the reins to make changes in a positive way and give back to the community.

Denny is referring to the preservation of North American Indian Sign Language, which was the topic of a presentation at Coconino Community College in Flagstaff. More than 40 people attended the presentation.

As the presentation began, Dr. Melanie McKay-Cody and Denny discussed the history of North American Indian Sign Language, also known as Plains Indian Sign Language (PISL). They explained how PISL was created as a way for different tribes to communicate with one another, as they spoke different languages. Sign language was a way to bridge the gap between different tribes and allowed them to trade and communicate more effectively.

I've worked with nine tribes, and I am studying and learning their language, said McKay-Cody, Ph.D., a linguistic and socio-cultural anthropologist at the University of Arizona. My research usually focuses on the past, understanding of language and tradition to preserve it for future generations.

McKay-Cody talked about the history of different signs and their origins. According to her, we still know about many of them because of paintings of people doing signs. She also discussed the loss of PISL over time because it was not written down and was only passed down through oral tradition. As tribes were forced onto reservations and Education Centers, their languages and cultures were suppressed. PISL was no exception.

Denny went on to discuss some of the challenges they face.

Language evolves over time. At one point, PISL influenced the creation of American Sign Language or ASL. Now it is becoming increasingly hard to preserve PISL because younger generations are influenced by ASL.

Its been a big challenge for us working on this project, Denny said. Its been hard to find people who are still alive and who use the sign language of their tribe.

Denny added that tribes are also wary of sharing their signs due to the sacred value that they hold and they dont want it to be stolen from them.

Our challenge is to find a center where we can store the information and give to the community, Denny said. We want to give to them as opposed to take from them because they are our future. We want to keep the language of past generations so the future generations will know the sign language of the past.

They also face linguistic and cultural differences. In ASL, facial expressions are an important part of the language. However, in many tribal sign languages, facial expressions are not integrated into the language.

The indigenous community doesn't always use expressions even when they sign. Thats a struggle for indigenous Deaf people. Denny said as they try to understand the meaning behind each sign.

McKay-Cody and Denny and their team are publishing their work to the SOOSL dictionary, which is a computer program that provides a place for international academic groups to publish sign language dictionaries.

Later in the presentation, Denny spoke about his performance at Super Bowl 57. The event is undoubtedly diverse, but the presence of Native Americans at such events, especially those using PISL or other Native languages isnt nearly as common.

The Super Bowl wanted to have someone from Arizona signing, someone who could kind of be like a host, but I didnt know who they would select, Denny said, smiling.

He was nominated, and he said he knew that he had to represent the presence of all of the different tribes in America during his presentation of America the Beautiful. He also said he thought that it was important to ensure that he depicted technological growth because in the past, there was not all this technology.

Denny then gave the opportunity for the audience to read America the Beautiful before going into his performance of the song, describing why he chose to sign what he did the way he did.

At the Super Bowl, I didn't want to stand on the field and wait for the music and the singing to begin without doing something. In honor of our culture, and the connection to the east, I signed the rising sun moving from the east across the land and through the setting sun in the west. Denny said.

He continued to  from sea to shining sea , and through the rest of his performance, he eloquently performed and described what his performance at Superbowl 57 meant - really diving into how this is our home and our place, our foundation, and our community.

Denny went on to talk about his upbringing and added that when he went to a residential school for deaf children, he realized there was a lot missing from his education.

I didnt feel like the public school was that good for me, he said. I didnt have a good understanding because there was no sign language. It was when I transferred to the Arizona School for the Deaf and Blind, everything changed. My education was in ASL. I could understand perspectives and how things impacted my family, my community, my friends. I felt like I could see myself following in my parents footsteps, guiding the next generation.

Denny concluded the presentation by saying, Who knows? What's next? But I can see being involved in education in the field where I'm, you know, following my parents and how they wanted to give back to the community.

For more information about the project, visit https://naair.arizona.edu/person/melanie-mckay-cody.
In this photo provided by the Southwest Ledger, people from Idabel, Okla., call for the resignation of several McCurtain County officials at a county commissioners meeting early Monday, April 17, 2023, after tapes with the officials' racist comments surfaced over the weekend.
The potholes that have plagued travelers trips on I-17 southbound are being addressed by the Arizona Department of Transportation, according to Brenden Foley, ADOTs Northcentral District Administrator.

Coming out of a record-setting winter, Foley said ADOT crews have had their eye on the impacts to paved highways throughout the region. Our crews are out daily, monitoring the roadways, patching potholes proactively; coming out of the winter well be able to do some more intensive repairs," he said.

Foley told the Daily Sun that travelers should expect lane closures on their route to Phoenix this week as crews work to repair snow and ice-battered highway in earnest.

Thats the good news with the arrival of warmer weather, Foley said. Especially coming out of this winter when we were hit so hard by snow and ice, and freeze-thaw cycles that cause damage.

Between 10 and 11 p.m. on Monday through Thursday, I-17 will be closed in both directions between Bumble Bee Road and Sunset Point. Crews wont be filling potholes in that area; instead, theyll be working on controlled rock blasting, as has been the case for several weeks. The on-ramp on northbound I-17 will also be closed during the nighttime rock-blasting operations this week.

When I-17 is open between Bumble Bee Road and Sunset Point, one lane will be closed for drivers headed south. The lane closures are expected to be in place from 10 p.m. until 4 a.m. through Friday, April 21.

ADOT recommends calling 511 or visiting az511.gov for the most up-to-date closure information.
America has lost all semblance of common sense when it comes to the popular social media app TikTok. The latest example comes from the US state of Montana, where the legislature passed a bill that would ban the app in the state. If the governor signs the bill into law, companies that continue to allow TikTok to be downloaded would face substantial fines. For now, any private citizen who uses the app would not be penalized.



Montana has already banned the app on any phone owned by the state government or any device used by public universities in the state. Other states have done the same (and others are considering such moves), and the US government has engaged in a highly public campaign to force the owners of the app to sell.



It is important to emphasize that the attempts to ban TikTok or pressure its Chinese owners into selling this platform contradict America's longstanding commitment to freedom of speech. And let's be clear that the paranoid fear of China that exists in the US explains why TikTok is under scrutiny. An unsubstantiated fear of anything related to China is evident in many places in the US, and political figures at the national and state level know they can score political points by saying or doing anything that seems to hurt China.

These public figures either refuse to listen to (or simply do not care when) civil liberties organizations state loudly that the decisions made against TikTok are certain to be found unconstitutional. Meanwhile, and with justification, the Chinese government and TikTok's owners are promising strong legal cases to block any effort at disrupting operations.



The opponents of TikTok want you to believe that the app is vacuuming up every morsel of data it can about its users and then depositing everything it has into China, where that information will then be used to prepare pro-China or anti-West propaganda.



About a month ago, the CEO of TikTok, Shou Zi Chew, testified before a Congressional committee for nearly six hours, as members of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce peppered Shou with one question after another about the app and whether it runs afoul of US national security concerns.



As the dust settles, it is becoming increasingly clear that those politicians played their roles well, as they sought to convince their constituents that TikTok is dangerous to America. Was there any substance behind what they did? It does not appear so. As the Washington Post noted when Mr. Shou addressed the committee, "To date, lawmakers have offered no evidence of TikTok harming US national security interests."



Therein lies the rub with national security: It can be used in any circumstance and anytime a foe of the US government is involved. Let's face it, a significant portion of Americans will believe, and without asking for proof, that TikTok is a threat to the country.



Meantime, no one in official Washington wants to look too closely at Facebook - another social media behemoth - and how it manipulates its algorithms because, well you know the answer, Facebook is an American company. Likewise, Google, known by friends and foes to collect copious amounts of data from people who use its products and apps, is allowed to carry on without anyone dropping those three words: national security threat.



And besides, no US company would ever collect data and then provide it to the government, right?



Edward Snowden knows that answer. He demonstrated almost 10 years ago that US-based telephone companies worked for hand in glove with the National Security Administration to ensure that what the BBC described as "tens of millions" of records pertaining to private citizens were made available for examination. It took seven years before a US court stated the obvious fact. Quoting the Guardian: The court "has found the program was unlawful  and that the US intelligence leaders who publicly defended it were not telling the truth."



In 2016, the FBI suggested that Snowden was to blame because those same companies were resisting efforts to again provide such information. Then in 2020, the US Supreme Court offered its own criticism. In a 5-4 ruling, the Court affirmed that except in clear emergencies, the government had to obtain a warrant before gathering the telephone location data of private individuals.



In short, the US government has broken the law, and it has been told to get its house in order. Now, it wants Americans to believe that China is a danger to the public even though there is no evidence to support such a contention.



The author Anthony Moretti is an associate professor at the Department of Communication and Organizational Leadership at Robert Morris University. (Source: CGTN)
New Delhi, Apr 18 (PTI) Four projects worth Rs 407 crore were approved for pollution abatement and clean the Hindon river in UP's Shamli district, the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) said on Tuesday.

The 48th meeting of the executive committee of the NMCG was held on Tuesday under the chairmanship of NMCG Director General G Asok Kumar.

Also Read | Sikkim Shocker: 11-Year-Old Girl Raped, Strangled to Death in Gangtok.

Eight projects worth around Rs. 638 crore were approved in the meeting.

"In an attempt to clean river Hindon, which is a tributary of river Yamuna, four projects worth Rs. 407.39 crore were approved for pollution abatement in Shamli district," the NMCG said in a statement.

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These projects are part of the comprehensive Hindon Rejuvenation Plan.

Hindon river is identified as "Priority I" polluted river stretch.

The projects which were sanctioned are to prevent the flow of polluted water into Krishni River.

Krishni is one of the major tributaries of Hindon, it said.

(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], April 18 (ANI): Union Home Minister Amit Shah will embark on a three-day visit to poll-bound Karnataka from April 21 as the state gears up for a fierce political battle in the month of May.

Also Read | Accenture Layoff: Tech Layoffs Deepens As IT Firm Announces 19,000 Jobs Cuts, Delays Freshers Recruitments; Top Five Points.

Shah will be in Davanagere on April 21 and in Devanahalli on April 22. On the last leg of his tour, the Union Home Minister will visit the neighbouring state of Telangana for his Lok Sabha Pravas.

Shah will hold roadshows in both Davanagere and Devanahalli. This will be Shah's first visit to Karnataka since the announcement of the polls last month.

Also Read | Tick-Borne Encephalitis Virus Can Affect Different Cell Types in Brain Causing Long-Term Disabilities: Study.

He is expected to attend Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) organisational meetings in the run-up to the polls. Sources said Shah will meet the top BJP leaders in the state and hold a core group meeting.

Shah will also chair a meeting of the Election Campaign Committee and give his crucial inputs to the team. He is also likely to chair a meeting of the Election Management Committee.

The major campaigns will begin after the date of withdrawal of nominations on April 24. Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai leads the Campaign Committee whereas Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje is the Convenor of the Election Management Committee.

On April 23, evening Shah will make his Lok Sabha Pravas in Chevella Loksabha seat in Telangana. Notably, Telangana also goes to polls end of this year and winning the state assembly elections has been on the agenda for the BJP.

So far Shah has visited more than 40 of the 160 Lok Sabha seats identified by BJP in line with the party's resolve to win the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Karnataka will go to Assembly elections on May 10 in a single phase and the counting of votes will be done on May 13. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Kochi, Apr 18 (PTI) The Congress in Kerala on Tuesday continued their attack on BJP over the saffron party's recent outreach towards the Christian community by stating the people understand the "hypocrisy" of the Sangh Parivar.

Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the state Assembly V D Satheesan said the Christian community in Kerala will not accept the BJP which he termed as a wolf in a sheep's clothing.

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Addressing the media here, Satheesan said the BJP was trying to get closer to the community aiming at the vote bank as the Sangh Parivar understands that they cannot attack the Christians like they do in north India.

"The Christians very well understand the hypocrisy of the BJP and its newfound love towards that community. There is a rise in the number of attacks towards Christian community... In a petition filed before the Supreme Court, the community has said that 598 churches were attacked... Recently, a BJP minister from Karnataka has asked his followers to beat up Christians," Satheesan said.

Also Read | Andhra Pradesh Police Invokes SC/ST Act Against Hotel for Serving Food on Plates With Dr BR Ambedkar's Picture, Says NCSC.

He said while the Sangh Parivar has been attacking Christians across the country, they are trying to woo the members of that community in Kerala.

"The people of the state do understand the hypocrisy of the BJP... They know that the act of the BJP leaders visiting the Bishop houses was a farce. People will not accept the BJP which is a wolf in a sheep's clothing," the senior Congress leader said.

The BJP's minority outreach programme and the ongoing visit of party leaders to Christian houses has been strongly criticised by the Congress and the ruling CPI(M) in the state.

BJP leaders in Kerala visited the Bishops of various Christian communities on Easter and also hosted breakfast and feast for the members of the group on the occasion of Vishu with an aim to attract the prominent minority religion.

They had also conducted 'Sneha Yatra' to Christian homes on Easter as an attempt to forge close ties with the Christian community as part of efforts to court them ahead of the 2024 general elections.

The BJP's massive minority outreach programme is in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's announcement last month that the party would capture power in the southern state.

Both the ruling CPI(M) and the opposition Congress in Kerala had criticised the BJP's moves to cultivate the Christian community by alleging that it indicated the saffron party's "double standards.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Mudhol (Karnataka) [India], April 18 (ANI): Karnataka Chief Minister Basasavaraj Bommai claimed that Lingayat voters in Karnataka are 'vigilant' and have always taken the right decision when required.

The CM also alleged Congress for applying a divide-and-rule policy for Lingayats and Veerashaivas.

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"Lingayat voters in Karnataka are vigilant and they have always taken the right decision when required. Congress Party has shown special love for them (Lingayat) after the Assembly elections were announced but it's the same party which tried to divide the Lingayats and Veerashaivas. The people have not forgotten the divide-and-rule policy of the Congress party", said Chief Minister Basasavaraj Bommai while talking to reporters.

Bommai further claimed that "the region was developed because of the BJP Government, party developed both Kalyana and Kittur and ensured social justice in the region. All those leaders who joined Congress during the election would not make any impact on the BJP's prospects. This time, the BJP will win more seats than in the 2018 Assembly polls."

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Ahead of filing his nomination on Tuesday BJP candidate Govind Karjol said "Congress Party had opposed the reservation for the Lingayats. It had opposed its inclusion in the 2A category in 2009 and rejected it in 2016. The incumbent BJP government created a separate category, 2D, and hiked the quota for the Lingayats."

"Now, they have instigated somebody and filed a case in the Supreme Court questioning the reservation for them. The Congress leaders opposed every development of Lingayats. None one has forgotten the 'Jilebi' file clearance prevailed in the Siddaramaiah Government," he added.

Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai filed his nomination papers for the May 10 Assembly election from the Shiggaon constituency in Haveri district on Saturday.

When asked about actor Kicha Sudip campaigning for the party, he said "the campaign by actor Sudip is not ready and it will be finalized tomorrow. Later, the actor will campaign for the BJP everywhere."(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, Apr 18 (PTI) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved a proposal for bringing in industry-friendly reform related to Authority Holding Sealed Particulars (AHSP), officials said on Tuesday.

The AHSP is the authority which is responsible for generating, maintaining, updating or declaring obsolete the entire history and technical information of defence products.

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Singh has approved a proposal for bringing in industry-friendly reform related to AHSP, the ministry said in a statement.

So far, the Directorate General of Quality Assurance (DGQA) was the AHSP for majority of defence items designed, developed and manufactured by various DPSUs and private industries, it said.

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"Under the existing procedure, certain bottlenecks were experienced by the industry to bring timely improvements in their products and technologies in line with changing times. Therefore, the ministry has decided now to liberalise the AHSP procedures and make it industry-friendly," the ministry said.

The Indian defence companies, which have developed products, systems, sub-systems, components on their own indigenous capabilities (except critical stores), will now be allowed to own and account for their final designs and specification as AHSP. In case of any change in the sealed particulars, a simplified mechanism representing all the stakeholders concerned, including the industry, will take a decision. The DGQA will notify the detailed procedure in this regard within two months, the statement said.

The DGQA has also been asked to examine all AHSPs with them and rationalise the entire list within two months. They have been, further, advised to transfer the AHSP to the industry at the earliest. It will be another significant step of the government to further encourage ease of doing business, it added.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Twitter CEO Elon Musk has claimed the U.S. government had access to users private messages on Twitter.

In a wide-ranging interview with Fox News' Tucker Carlson, set to be broadcast on Monday and Tuesday night, Musk made the startling claims noting how he was shocked to learn that the government had full access to private communications on the platform.

The billionaire tycoon told Carlson how unaware of the fact until he joined the company and expressed surprise at the degree to which government agencies were able to monitor social media.

'The degree to which government agencies effectively had full access to everything that was going on on Twitter blew my mind,' Musk said. 'I was not aware of that.' (Source: Daily Mail)
Zemithang (Arunachal Pradesh) [India], April 18 (ANI): Sending out a strong message to China, which recently attempted to rename 11 places in Arunachal Pradesh in a fresh attempt to lay claim on sovereign Indian territory, a group of top Himalayan Buddhist leaders on Monday visited the state and held a day-long national conference on Nalanda Buddhism Tradition at Gorsam Stupa, Zemithang in Arunachal Pradesh's Tawang district on Monday.

It's rare for top Himalayan Buddhist leaders to come together in such big numbers in the border state and the meeting on Monday is being seen as a clear and unambiguous message to China after its renaming attempt.

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The day-long conference, attended by about 600 delegates, is also being seen as an attempt to give a strong push to Himalayan Buddhism.

Zemithang in Arunachal is the last village in India, along the Indo-China border.

Also Read | Atiq Ahmed-Ashraf Ahmed Killings: Supreme Court To Hear on April 24 Plea Seeking Independent Probe Into Murder of Gangster-Turned-Politician and His Brother.

In December 2022, Chinese PLA troops clashed with Indian forces on the Line of Actual Control (LAC), in the Tawang sector of Arunachal Pradesh.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh later issued a statement saying that the Chinese troops tried to unilaterally change the status quo on the LAC and the bid was successfully foiled by the Indian forces.

The conference was attended by delegates of revered Rinpoches, Geahes, Khenpos and scholars from all the Himalayan states of Himachal Pradesh, Ladakh (Union Territory), Uttarakhand, Jammu and Kashmir (Paddar-Pangi), Sikkim, North Bengal (Darjeeling, Doors, Jaigaon and Kalimpong), Densa South India Monasteries and 35 delegates from various parts of Arunachal Pradesh like Tuting, Mechuka, Taksing and Anini and others.

Arunachal Chief Minister Pema Khandu said the Buddhist culture, which thrives on the peaceful co-existence of every sentient being, should not only be preserved but also propagated.

Khandu said the state has a big chunk of the Buddhist population and "fortunately they have kept their culture and traditions safe with religious fervour".

"The main pillar on which Nalanda Buddhism stands is the principle of 'reasoning and analysis'. This means we can even bring the teachings of Lord Buddha under the ambit of reasoning and analysis. This logic is based on science and perhaps Buddhism is the only religion that gives its followers this liberty," Khandu said.

Welcoming the delegates, the chief minister said Arunachal Pradesh is home to a mix of religious followers.

"Arunachal Pradesh is not home only to Buddhism but to several religions, including those who follow their own indigenous faith. I believe that every religion and faith should flourish and exist peacefully. I am proud that we Arunachalis are doing just that," Khandu said.

He expressed gratitude to the Indian Himalayan Council of Nalanda Buddhist Tradition (IHCNBT) for organising the one-day national conference on Nalanda Buddhist tradition on retracing the source in the footsteps of Acharyas: "from Nalanda to Himalaya and beyond".

"Zemithang, as you might all know, is the last Indian border through which his holiness the 14th Dalai Lama entered India in 1959. Therefore, holding this conference here is significant," Khandu said.

While noting that Buddhism was expanding globally and witnessing an important resurgence in a few traditional areas, Khandu pushed for the need to make its presence more vibrant with roots connected to Nalanda Buddhism.

He insisted that those attending the conference, especially the youth, stay put for the three technical sessions scheduled for the day.

"We are blessed to receive his teachings based on ancient Nalanda tradition," CM Khandu said.

He added that great scholars of Nalanda University had developed Nalanda Buddhist traditions and, with time, they went to Tibet and propagated the faith through the great Nalanda gurus such as Acharya Santarakshita, and Nagarjuna, among others. (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], April 18 (ANI): The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken over the Kerala train fire tragedy case and started its probe charging the "highly radicalised" arrested accused Shahrukh Safi, sources said.

The move followed an order issued by the Counter Terrorism and Counter Radicalization (CTCR) division under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).

Also Read | Italy Captures Bear That Killed Runner, Death Order on Hold.

As it was a clear case of terror involving many states, the NIA invoked the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act in its based on doubts that the accused was sent to the state by his handlers and he got enough local help, said the sources.

The anti-terror agency took over the case from Kerala Police, which has been probing the case under UAPA.

Also Read | Apple Opens First Flagship Store in India.

The NIA's action comes days after the accused, identified as one Shahrukh Saifi, who also suffered burn injuries during the terror act, was slapped with murder charges on Friday under Section 302 of the Indian Penal Code by a district session court in Kozhikode. He was charged with murder in a case filed by the railway police.

As per officials, there was a pre-planned conspiracy behind the crime and it was not a single-man mission as confessed by the accused.

Saifi, 27, a native of Shaheen Bagh in Delhi, was arrested by the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) of Maharashtra Police and Central Intelligence on Wednesday and was brought to Kozhikode earlier this month where he was receiving treatment for the injuries.

At the time of interrogation by a special investigation team (SIT) Saifi provided contradictory statements in which initially, he had said he was being used by someone and later retracted saying, everything was planned and executed by him only.

The NIA is learnt to investigate the larger conspiracy as part of which Saifi, assessed by Kerala police to be "highly radicalised" and influenced by inflammatory speeches of Islamic evangelist Zakir Naik, planned and executed the act of arson.

The agency will also look at possible handlers and aides that may have been part of this conspiracy and examine the inter-state linkages, considering that Saifi is a resident of Shaheen Bagh in Delhi and was arrested from Ratnagiri, Maharashtra.

The NIA has been involved in the train arson case right from the start and engaged in an investigation with officers from its Kochi branch.

The agency officers alao reached the incident site soon after the attack to examine the cause of the fire and collect samples for forensic analysis.

On April 2, Saifi had attempted to set some passengers on fire on board the Alappuzha-Kannur Executive Express at Elathur in Kozhikode, after spraying them with an inflammable liquid. Three passengers lost their lives while trying to jump out of the train to escape the fire. Saifi was later arrested from Ratnagiri. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) [India], April 18 (ANI): The Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed to probe the murder of Atiq Ahmad and his brother Ashraf will soon recreate the crime scene as part of its ongoing investigation, revealed sources.

The SIT team will also investigate how many policemen tried to nab the attackers and how much time it took to control them.

Also Read | Italy Captures Bear That Killed Runner, Death Order on Hold.

On Sunday, nearly two days after three persons posing as media persons gunned down gangster-turned-politician Atiq Ahmed and his brother Ashraf in Prayagraj, the Uttar Pradesh police announced formation of two special investigating teams (SITs) to probe the brazen killings.

The first SIT, to be headed by Additional DCP (crime) Satish Chandra, has been formed to probe the murder case registered at Shahganj police station, according to an order issued by Prayagraj Commissioner of Police, Ramit Sharma on Sunday.

Also Read | Apple Opens First Flagship Store in India.

The second SIT has been put together to supervise the first. This SIT will be headed by ADG Prayagraj Zone Bhanu Bhaskar, and would also have Prayagraj Commissioner of Police and the director of Forensic Science Laboratory as its members, stated an order issued by the Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police, RK Vishwakarma on Sunday.

Atiq Ahmad and his brother Ashraf Ahmad were shot dead by men posing as journalists on Saturday night, while they were being taken for a medical examination in Prayagraj.

Both the gangsters collapsed at the spot after being shot close to point-blank range.

UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath took cognizance of the incident and ordered the setting up of a judicial commission in the matter.

All three assailants -- Arun Maurya, Sunny Singh and Lovelesh Tiwari -- were sent to 14-day judicial custody by the district court on Sunday.

The last rites of gangster-turned-politician and his brother took place at a family graveyard in the Kasari Masari area of Prayagraj on Sunday.

Atiq Ahmed was accused in the 2005 murder of Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) MLA Raju Pal and also in the killing of a key witness in that case, Umesh Pal, in February this year. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Chamoli (Uttarakhand) [India], April 18 (ANI): The Chamoli district administration in Uttarakhand will take stringent action against eateries that overcharge pilgrims during Chardham Yatra. District Magistrate of Chamoli Himanshu Khurana has constituted a committee and issued orders for regular inspections of eateries.

"During the Chardham Yatra, strict action will be taken against the hotel and dhaba owners who charge more than the fixed price from the pilgrims and sell adulterated food items on the Badrinath and Hemkund Yatra route," said the order issued by the district magistrate said.

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Char Dham yatra commences on April 22 and it is on the auspicious day of Akshay Tritiya. The doors of Kedarnath Dham will open for devotees on April 25 and Badrinath Dham on April 27.

On April 13 Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Sing Dhami told ANI that the state government had made all arrangements to ensure that everyone's Char Dham Yatra is smooth. "All the preparations for Char Dham Yatra have been completed. More than 12 lakh people have registered, and we have made all arrangements to ensure that everyone's journey is smooth," CM Dhami saidUttarakand officials also said that health services are being improved for the pilgrims and several health ATMs have also been set up on the Yatra route. "Health services are being improved on the Yatra route, and the number of Health ATMs will be increased in the coming time. The officer was directed to run an intensive checking campaign of food items in various hotels, dhabas and restaurants by forming a team on the travel route coming under Pauri district," Uttarakhand Health Secretary Dr R Rajesh Kumar said

Also Read | AAP, BJP Leaders Engage in Heated Exchange on Social Media.

"50 health ATMs have been set up by Hewlett Packard Enterprises under CSR in various medical units identified in Garhwal division on the Yatra route for health screening pilgrims. Parameters like blood pressure, sugar level, body temperature, oxygen content, body fat, 70 free tests including index, dehydration, and pulse rate will be done," he further 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)
Yuba City (CA), Apr 18 (AP) Authorities in Northern California on Monday said they had arrested more than a dozen men from two warring criminal syndicates whose violent rivalry they say was responsible for a mass shooting at a Sikh temple and a brutal sword attack at a parade in 2018.

Sutter County District Attorney Jennifer Dupre said the two syndicates were responsible for multiple shootings where 11 people were shot, including five people at a Sikh temple in Stockton last year and two more victims at a temple in Sacramento last month. None of the victims died.

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Dupre said all of the men arrested are part of California's Sikh community and were members of one of two rival groups whose feud was fuelled by intense personal connections.

This started out as one group, and one faction broke off, and since then they have been rivals trying to outdo each other. Mainly they show up places and try to shoot each other, Dupre said, comparing it to the US Civil War where brothers were fighting against brothers.

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Dupre said the arrests are not related to the murders last year of a Sikh family in the San Joaquin Valley, which included the killings of an 8-month-old baby, the baby's parents and an uncle.

Dupre said the violence began in 2018 at the annual Sikh Parade in Yuba City, one of the largest South Asian festivals held outside of the Indian subcontinent. There, Dupre said, a man was beaten so hard with a sword that it broke. The violence soon escalated to shootings, including one at a wedding party in 2021.

The rash of violence attracted the attention of the Yuba-Sutter Narcotic and Gang Enforcement Task Force, which launched an investigation with assistance from the FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and various other local, state and federal law enforcement agencies.

The investigation intensified in March, when authorities learned of potential violence at a Sikh parade in Sacramento. Dupre said police stopped two cars before they reached the parade, arresting seven people and seizing four handguns and two other guns with large capacity magazines.

A shooting still happened at the parade, injuring two people, but Dupre said a mass casualty incident was prevented.

If those weapons had gotten into the parade, it could have been a bloodbath, Dupre said.

Altogether, Dupre said police seized 41 guns during the investigation, including a weapon described as a machine gun.

Authorities arrested 17 people, including Karandeep Singh, Pardeep Singh, Pavittar Singh, Husandeep Singh, Sahajpreet Singh, Harkirat Singh, Tirath Ram, Dharamvir Singh, Jobanjit Singh, Gurvinder Singh, Nitish Kaushal, Gurminder Singh Kang, Devender Singh, Karambir Gill, Rajeev Ranjan, Jobanpreet Singh, and Singh Dhesi.

Dupre said five other people  Amandeep Singh, Harmandeep Singh, Gursharn Singh, Grucharan Singh and Jaskaran Singh  have not yet been arrested.

Dupre said the men have not had a court appearances yet. It's not clear if they have attorneys yet who can speak on their behalf.

Yuba City, a city of nearly 70,000 people along the Feather River just north of Sacramento, has a large Sikh community. Locals often refer to the area as mini Punjab, named after the Indian state where many Sikhs live. Each November, tens of thousands of people travel to the city for Nagar Kirtan, one of the largest Sikh gatherings in the US.

Sikhs also have a large presence throughout California's Central Valley. The Sacramento County Assistant Sheriff said seven of the shootings occurred in Sacramento County within the past year.

The investigation in this particular case and the charges that have been brought forth does not in any way reflect or represent the vibrant Sikh community that are such an important and vital part of the greater community in this region, Sacramento County District Attorney Thien Ho said. (AP)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Papua [Indonesia], April 18 (ANI): Separatist rebels in Indonesia's Papua region said that they have killed at least 13 Indonesian soldiers after the army troops were sent to search for captured New Zealand pilot, Phillip Mehrtens, who was taken hostage in February, CNN reported.

The West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) according to CNN said its soldiers attacked two Indonesian military posts in the Yal and Mugi districts in Nduga Regency over the weekend.

Also Read | Indian Climber Anurag Maloo Goes Missing at Mount Annapurna in Nepal, Search Operation Continues.

The CCN said that according to a statement, rebels shot dead 13 Indonesian military and police officials in the Mugi district. One body had been evacuated by the Indonesian military, but rebels were still in possession of 12 bodies, the statement added, without providing proof.

Indonesia's military in a televised press conference on Sunday said one of their soldiers had been killed while combing the area near where pilot Mehrtens is believed to be held.

Also Read | Sudan Clash: Ministry of External Affairs Sets Up Control Room To Provide Information, Assistance to Indians.

The military confirmed that some soldiers were missing but the weather had made it difficult to determine their whereabouts.

"We know the location of the pilot, the operation has been escalated but the weather condition in Papua is unpredictable," military spokesperson Julius Widjojono said, as quoted by CNN.

The rebels said nine Indonesian soldiers were executed on Sunday after being captured in the Yal district.

The rebels said the attack on the Yal military post was "revenge" for an Indonesian military operation in the area in late March when troops killed a pregnant woman and two rebel fighters.

As per the rebel group, they'd proposed peace negotiations with the New Zealand and Indonesian governments, but for two months their letters had been ignored.

They said New Zealand and the UN had an "obligation to urge the Indonesian Government to stop military operations" and said peace talks could be conducted under a "neutral third party, namely the UN organizational body."

Mehrtens was captured in February after landing a commercial Susi Air charter flight at the remote Paro Airport in Nduga regency. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Mexico City, Apr 18 (AP) The Mexican Navy said Monday it is using ships and a plane to search for three Americans who went missing along with their sailboat off Mexico's northern Pacific coast.

The Navy said it is using four patrol boats and a twin-engine prop airplane to search the area, but apparently no sign of the missing people has turned up yet.

Also Read | Indian Climber Anurag Maloo Goes Missing at Mount Annapurna in Nepal, Search Operation Continues.

The three Americans were aboard the 44-foot (13.5 metre) sailing vessel Ocean Bound. The US Coast Guard gave their names as Kerry O'Brien, Frank O'Brien, and William Gross.

They have not been heard from since April 4, when they were near the Pacific coast port of Mazatlan, Mexico. The three had planned to stop for supplies in the Baja resort town of Cabo San Lucas, before proceeding to San Diego.

Also Read | Sudan Clash: Ministry of External Affairs Sets Up Control Room To Provide Information, Assistance to Indians.

However, the Coast Guard said marinas in Baja California have not reported seeing the vessel. (AP)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Hebron, April 18: A 20-year-old woman on her way to a friend's house in upstate New York was driven to the wrong address and quickly shot to death by the homeowner, authorities said Monday.

Kevin Monahan, 65, was arrested on a second-degree murder charge for Saturday night's fatal shooting of Kaylin Gillis at his property in Hebron, north of Albany, said Washington County Sheriff Jeffrey Murphy. Secret Chinese Police Station in New York City: FBI Arrests Two for Harassing China Dissidents Inside US.

Gillis was in a car with three other people looking for a friend's house when the group mistakenly drove up to Monahan's house, Murphy said. As they attempted to turn the car around, Monahan came out and fired two shots, one of which hit Gillis, he said.

The group drove to the neighbouring town of Salem and called 911, according to Murphy. Emergency crews arrived and performed CPR on Gillis, but she was pronounced dead.

When officers arrived at Monahan's house to investigate the shooting, he refused to come out, Murphy said. Authorities spoke with him through a 911 dispatcher and in person for about an hour before he was taken into custody, according to the sheriff.

Monahan was booked into the Warren County jail. It wasn't clear whether he had an attorney who could speak on his behalf. Murphy said at a news conference Monday that Gillis was an innocent young girl who was out with friends looking for another friend's house, according to the Times Union of Albany. He said there was no reason for Mr Monahan to feel threatened. US Navy Warship Sails Through Taiwan Strait After China Concludes Its Military Drills.

The shooting happened days after 16-year-old Ralph Yarl was shot and wounded in Kansas City, Missouri, after going to the wrong house to pick up his younger brothers. Authorities are investigating whether race was a factor in the shooting of Yarl, who is Black. Race does not appear to be a factor in the New York case. From photos they both appear to be white.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Washington, Apr 18 (AP) Stepping gingerly over the lawn in their spiky heels, first lady Jill Biden and Yuko Kishida, the wife of Japan's prime minister, planted a cherry tree at the White House on Monday to honour decades of friendship between their countries.

This is how you always plant a tree," Biden said, laughing about their shoes as she and Kishida shovelled soil around the base of a Yoshino cherry tree sapling on the south grounds.

Also Read | Indian Climber Anurag Maloo Goes Missing at Mount Annapurna in Nepal, Search Operation Continues.

Kishida is on a rare solo visit to the United States. It's the first time the spouse of the prime minister has travelled alone to the United States, and Kishida visited at Biden's invitation, according to the Japanese embassy in Washington.

She is spending part of the week in Washington to promote friendship between the US and Japan, as well as cultural exchanges, the Japanese government said.

Also Read | Sudan Clash: Ministry of External Affairs Sets Up Control Room To Provide Information, Assistance to Indians.

Biden took Kishida to the Oval Office to see President Joe Biden, the White House said, and hosted her for lunch. Among those invited to the women-only meal were Rep. Doris Matsui, D-California; Maki Onuki, principal dancer at the Washington Ballet; and Akiko Iwasaki, immunology professor at Yale University School of Medicine, according to the first lady's office.

The new sapling is a Yoshino cherry tree that was propagated from a cutting from a cherry tree that was planted on the south grounds in July 2017, the White House said. It was planted near the East Wing. The White House has 23 other cherry trees across the 18 acres.

The meeting between Biden and Kishida was rescheduled from January when Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and President Biden met in the Oval Office. Kishida's wife accompanied him on the trip. But Jill Biden was unable to host Yuko Kishida at the time because the first lady was recovering from a surgical procedure performed two days earlier to remove several cancerous lesions from her skin.

It also comes before next week's state visit by South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and first lady, Kim Keon Hee.

President Biden has looked to build closer security cooperation with Japan and South Korea at a time of shared concerns about a restive North Korea and a more powerful China. He has sought opportunities to help the historic rivals improve their long, fraught relationship as the Indo-Pacific region becomes increasingly complicated.

In March, South Korea announced a plan to compensate Koreans who performed forced labour during Tokyo's colonial rule that doesn't require Japanese companies to contribute to the reparations.

Biden hailed the step as a "groundbreaking new chapter in cooperation between the countries. Yoon followed up by visiting Tokyo later in March for talks with Kishida. It was the first summit between the two nations' leaders since 2011.

The US and Japanese spouses also were meeting several weeks before Kishida hosts the annual Group of Seven summit of leading industrialised nations, including the US, in mid-May in Hiroshima, Japan. (AP)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Washington [US], April 18 (ANI): US State Secretary Antony Blinken spoke with Sudanese Armed Forces' Commander General Abdel Fattah al Burhan and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) Commander General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, calling for the ceasefire to permit the delivery of humanitarian assistance, the US State Department said.

"Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke separately today with General Abdel Fattah al Burhan, Commander of the Sudanese Armed Forces, and General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, Commander of the Rapid Support Forces, and underscored the urgency of reaching a ceasefire to permit the delivery of humanitarian assistance to those affected by the fighting, the reunification of Sudanese families, and allow the international community in Khartoum to make sure its presence is secure," said Principal Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel in a statement on Monday (local time).

Also Read | CBC 'Pausing' Twitter Activity After Elon Musk Adds 'Government-Funded Media' Label to Its Account.

"The Secretary expressed his grave concern about the death and injury of so many Sudanese civilians due to the sustained, indiscriminate fighting, and stressed the responsibility of the two generals to ensure the safety and well-being of civilians, diplomatic personnel, and humanitarian workers," it added.

The death toll from fighting between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has reached 180 and over 1,800 civilians and combatants were injured, The New York Times reported.

Also Read | Sudan Unrest: Death Toll Soars to 185 As Clashes Between Armys Rival Factions Intensify on Third Day in Parts of Khartoum.

According to NYT, the fighting has left many of the five million residents of the capital, Khartoum, stranded at home without electricity or water as they marked the last few days of Ramzan, the Muslim holy month when many fast daily from dawn until dusk.

Overwhelmed medical facilities have been targeted, including a major medical centre northeast of Khartoum that was shelled, evacuated and shut down. More than a dozen hospitals have shuttered, according to NYT.

The European Union's ambassador to Sudan, Aidan O'Hara, was assaulted in his residency in Khartoum on Monday afternoon, the EU's top diplomat, Josep Borrell Fontelles, said on Twitter.

It was not immediately known who attacked him, but a spokeswoman for the bloc said the ambassador was "fine."

It was still not clear who, if anyone, was in control of the country. The clashes, which erupted on Saturday, have pitted a paramilitary group known as the Rapid Support Forces against the Sudanese Army, a longstanding rivalry between Sudan's two top generals who have been vying for dominance, according to NYT. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Authorities are investigating after six abandoned puppies were found northwest of Beatrice this week.

Just before 4 a.m.on Monday the Gage County Sheriffs Office was dispatched to a report of abandoned puppies.

A press release stated the deputy arrived at the Koch Nitrogen plant and spoke with the security officer who had six puppies in the patrol truck. The security officer told authorities he had found the puppies on the east side of the road just north of the Nutrien Plant.

The puppies appeared to be 6-9 weeks of age and possibly German Shepherds. The deputy transported the six puppies to the Beatrice Humane Society, where they were given food, water, and shelter.
Khalistani supporters had tried to vandalise the national flag in UK. (Photo credits: Twitter/IANS)

New Delhi, April 18: The NIA has taken over the case of attack by pro-Khalistan protesters on the Indian High Commission in London on March 19, confirmed the agency to IANS on Tuesday.

The case was earlier registered with the Special Cell of the Delhi Police.

Earlier, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs gave the nod to transfer the case to NIA. India's Befitting Reply To Khalistanis: Tricolour Flying High at Indian High Commission in London, Officials Put Up Bigger Tiranga After Khalistani Elements Tried To Vandalise National Flag in UK (Watch Video).

The Special Cell of Delhi Police had registered an FIR in connection with the protest staged by pro-Khalistani activists at the Indian High Commission in London on March 19 during which the Tricolour was pulled down from the premises.

The case was registered after the Union Ministry of Home Affairs asked Delhi Police to take legal action.

The FIR was registered under relevant sections of Indian Penal Code, Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act and an investigation has been initiated in the case. Indian High Commission in London Vandalised: Man Arrested in Connection With Vandalism by Pro-Khalistani Groups, Mayor Sadiq Khan Condemns Incident.

The British Deputy High Commissioner was also summoned by the Centre, demanding an explanation over the complete absence of security during the protest.

The British High Commissioner to India, Alex Ellis had described the incident as "disgraceful" and "totally unacceptable".

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Apr 18, 2023 10:33 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
The female bear attacked a jogger in Italy's northern Trentino region, killing him. The death has reignited a debate on human-wildlife conflict.Italian authorities have captured the 17-year-old female bear, identified as "JJ4," that fatally attacked a jogger in the northern Trentino region two weeks ago, officials said on Tuesday.

Also Read | Apple Opens First Flagship Store in India.

The search for the bear began after the body of 26-year-old Andrea Papi was found on April 6 in the woods of the Peller mountain, where he had gone jogging.

Also Read | Same-Sex Marriage Hearing: No Absolute Concept of Man or Woman, Cant Be About Genitals, Observes Supreme Court.

Local prosecutors said the DNA samples taken from the scene of the incident matched that of JJ4.

After the attack on Papi, Trento provincial leader Maurizio Fugatti ordered the bear to be put down.

Following appeals by animal rights groups, however, an administrative court put the order to cull on hold.

The court has scheduled a full hearing for May 11.

"As far as we are concerned, if the court will allow it ... we will proceed with the killing," Fugatti told a news conference on Tuesday.

Is the bear population out of control?

The attack has reignited a debate on human-wildlife conflict.

Wild brown bears were imported from Slovenia and reintroduced to Trentino in 1999 under an EU-funded program and as part of a wider project to resettle the animals to the Austrian and Italian Alps.

Some observers have recently complained that the bear population has gotten out of hand, reaching more than double the number the project aimed to achieve.

Data provided by Trento's provincial authorities showed that the bear population in the area totaled around 100 animals in 2021.

Papi is believed to be the first person to have died of a bear attack since the project's launch.

Authorities said JJ4 also attacked two other people in 2020, but not fatally.

sri/nm (AP, Reuters, dpa)

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Apr 18, 2023 03:40 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
A war of words erupted on social media between BJP and AAP leaders on Tuesday, a day after Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's speech in the assembly over a resolution accusing the Centre of trying to destabilise his government through "misuse" of CBI and ED.
Fox News parent 21st Century Fox moved decisively Tuesday to end the sexual harassment scandal that has roiled the media company, issuing an extraordinary apology to former anchor Gretchen Carlson and agreeing to pay $20 million to settle her lawsuit against her former boss, Roger Ailes.

We sincerely regret and apologize for the fact that Gretchen was not treated with the respect and dignity that she and all of our colleagues deserve, the companys statement said.

The unusually candid expression of regret over Ailes alleged actions demonstrates how much Fox wants the controversy to go away. Coming in the midst of a presidential election, the scandal had raised questions about the future leadership of a network that has long dominated cable TV news ratings.

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The apology and settlement caps a period of turmoil at Fox News since Carlson sued Ailes in July, accusing him of sabotaging her career after she rebuffed his sexual advances and complained about a hostile work environment.

The suit prompted 21st Century Fox to launch an internal investigation into Ailes conduct toward Carlson and other women at Fox News, which led to the ouster of one of the media industrys most powerful figures. Rupert Murdoch, executive chairman of 21st Century Fox, replaced Ailes and tapped senior Fox News veterans Bill Shine and Jack Abernethy to serve as as co-presidents overseeing news and business, respectively.

Adding to the upheaval, Fox also disclosed Tuesday the departure of another high-profile news anchor, Greta Van Susteren, who left in an apparent financial disagreement with the network.

Direct acknowledgment of wrongdoing is virtually unheard of in sexual harassment settlements, said Debra Katz, a Washington, D.C., attorney who has handled such cases for three decades.

This is something every client who walks in my office wants and I tell them to a person this is something you will never get,  Katz said. Companies do not apologize, particularly when there are other potential litigants out there. Typically, a standard provision in any settlement agreement is a non-admission clause, which says by virtue of paying this large sum we are not admitting any wrongdoing.

Katz believed Carlson demanded the apology as part of her settlement. Her attorney, Nancy Erika Smith, did not comment.

Im sure this is something she insisted upon, Katz said. Companies do not do this out of the goodness of their hearts.

Carlson said in her statement she was gratified that 21st Century Fox took decisive action after I filed my complaint.

Fox News parent 21st Century Fox was highly motivated to settle to avoid having Carlsons suit go to trial, which would have meant a stream of women testifying against Ailes, who ran Fox News for 20 years. A trial would have also resulted in sustained negative media coverage of the company and potentially cast an unflattering light on other executives at the company.

A settlement also avoids the chances of having a court rule in Carlsons favor and hitting Fox News with punitive damages that could have far exceeded the $20 million in the settlement. Carlson appeared to have strong evidence to bolster her allegations, including reports that she recorded conversations with Ailes on her iPhone.

But it remains to be seen whether the settlement will put to rest any further allegations against Ailes now that Carlson succeeded in getting the company to admit she was mistreated.

In a situation like this, women who have claims within the statute of limitations might feel more emboldened that Fox did not fight this until the ends of time and they may come forward, Katz said. It does encourage women when they see the person out there with a good result and an apology.

Fox News does not expect any other suits to be filed. As part of its investigation, several female Fox News employees  including prime-time star Megyn Kelly  revealed sexual harassment incidents. The company has subsequently made settlement agreements with a handful of those women, according to a person briefed on the matter who spoke on condition of anonymity.

Fox News is still defending a suit brought by suspended personality Andrea Tantaros, who filed a sexual harassment claim against Ailes and alleged that other executives undermined her career at the channel. Fox News has maintained that Tantaros was suspended for breaching her contract because she failed to have her recent book vetted by the company before its publication.

Even as it announced a settlement with Carlson, Fox disclosed the departure of Van Susteren, whose nightly program On the Record has aired since 2002. Political analyst Brit Hume will take over for Van Susteren starting Tuesday.

Two people briefed on the matter who demanded anonymity said her abrupt exit was due to a financial disagreement and was unrelated to Carlsons case.

Nonetheless, Van Susteren was a vocal defender of Ailes when sexual harassment accusations were first leveled against the former Fox News chairman. She is one of the Fox News personalities who has a clause in her contract tied to Ailes remaining in charge of the channel.

Van Susterens husband, John Coale, told The Times that the clause was used to discuss some issues in her contract. But Fox News did not negotiate and used the opening to get out of the contract, he said.

Thats what happened, he said. Were exploring litigation options at this time. As for the future, shed like to stay in broadcasting.

The departure of Van Susteren is just the latest development in the maelstrom that has enveloped Fox News since the allegations by Carlson became public and reports have emerged of other women who have worked with Ailes also saying that he sought sexual favors in return for employment opportunities.

In her lawsuit, Carlson lists a series of sexually charged comments allegedly made by Ailes to Carlson about her physical appearance and suggestions that her standing at Fox News would be better if she had a sexual relationship with him.

In a Sept. 16 meeting to discuss the discriminatory treatment she believed she suffered, Carlson said Ailes told her, I think you and I should have had a sexual relationship a long time ago, then youd be good and better and Id be good and better.

Ailes has denied Carlsons claims and all other incidents as well.

He left the influential news division he founded with a $40-million severance package. Ailes was also indemnified by the company for any damages from the lawsuit and did not personally contribute to the cost of the settlement.

Attorneys for Carlson had said they had been contacted by as many as 20 women who said they were subjected to inappropriate behavior by Ailes during his previous careers as a political consultant and a TV talk show producer.

By settling with Carlson, 21st Century Fox is also hoping to get Fox News into a new era and away from a continuing media saga that portrays Ailes as a powerful rogue executive who was able to build and operate his division with little control or authority from his bosses. One report said Fox News authorized a $3.15-million severance payment in 2011 to a longtime Washington employee who said she was forced into a sexual relationship with Ailes.

Ailes denied the charges and Shine, a top lieutenant at the time, said he had no knowledge of any relationship. But longtime chief financial officer Mark Kranz retired from the company after the payment was revealed.

stephen.battaglio@latimes.com

Twitter: @SteveBattaglio

ALSO

Fox News says Andrea Tantaros allegations are a smokescreen for a contract breach

Andrea Tantaros calls Fox News a sex-fueled Playboy Mansion-like cult in lawsuit

Murdochs say the positioning of Fox News wont change with new leadership

Bill Shine and Jack Abernethy to fill Roger Ailes role at Fox News

UPDATES:

7 p.m.: This article was updated with additional details.

7:25 a.m.: This story was updated to include news that longtime Fox News anchor Greta Van Susteren is leaving the company.

This story was originally published at 6:55 a.m.
On 17 April Colombias Presidentsaid that he will use his meeting this week with US Presidentto lobby for a lifting of sanctions on Venezuela.

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On 17 April Argentinas Presidentsaid that his government was rethinking the countrys debt programme with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in the hope of implementing revisions due to reasons beyond its control.

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Disney outplayed Florida Governor Ron DeSantis in his attempt to take over the special district where Disney World is located. Now, he is escalating the feud further.

The Florida governor, who is running on a culture war platform in his bid for the Republican nomination for the presidency in 2024, went after the Walt Disney corporation for its opposition to his "Don't Say Gay" bill, as well as much of his policies that experts say limits freedom of speech in Florida.

He tried to take over the special district where Disney World is located, but that bid failed when that special district's previous board invoked a seldom-used law that granted Disney control of the area for a long time.

DeSantis has since vowed to undo this in the courts, but in the meantime, Disney still controls the Reedy Creek Improvement District due to its legal maneuvers. However, DeSantis is retaliating against Disney again.

According to CNN, DeSantis threatened to build a prison or a competing theme park near the Magic Kingdom or raise taxes on Walt Disney World. He also stated that Florida lawmakers will advance a bill that will "make sure that people understand that you don't get to put your own company over the will of the people of Florida."

During a radio program in Orlando on Monday, DeSantis called the agreement "defective" and suggested it was not properly noticed according to state law. However, Disney has argued that it followed state meeting laws as the meetings were public and were even announced in a local newspaper.

READ NEXT: Disney Stops Ron DeSantis Takeover of Walt Disney World

Ron DeSantis Was Caught Off Guard With Legal Maneuvers to Secure Control of Disney World

While DeSantis still has a chance to take control of the Reedy Creek area after what may take years of taxpayer-funded litigation, Disney's legal maneuvers have thwarted the Florida governor and potential presidential candidate, though this victory is possibly only temporary.

CNN pointed out that Ron DeSantis was caught off guard by the move, as his new board that took over the Reedy Creek Improvement District did not know that the previous board had given control to Disney until a few weeks after they had taken over.

However, DeSantis has remained determined to take control of Reedy Creek, and he is willing to use taxpayer money for his agenda.

"They can keep trying to do things, but, ultimately, we're gonna win on every single issue involving Disney. I can tell you that," he said in a speech in Michigan.

Disney CEO Bob Iger Hits Back at Ron DeSantis

Earlier this month, Disney held its annual shareholder meeting, and CEO Bob Iger let loose some fighting words against DeSantis, calling his ' actions "anti-business" and "anti-Florida."

"A year ago, the company took a position on pending Florida legislation, and while the company may have not handled the position that it took very well, a company has a right to freedom of speech just like individuals do," he pointed out.

According to The Tallahassee, Iger then added that DeSantis got angry with Disney's position on LGBTQ rights and has "decided to retaliate against us, including the naming of a new board to oversee the property and the business." The Disney CEO then stated that the governor now sought to "punish a company for its exercise of a constitutional right. And that just seems really wrong to me."

READ MORE: Tucker Carlson Admits He Hates Donald Trump 'Passionately'

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: How Disney Outsmarted Ron DeSantis - LegalEagle
The Starship test flight of billionaire Elon Musk's company SpaceX has been postponed after announcing that the Starship launch will commence on April 17.

The reason behind the Starship launch delay was a frozen valve that would reportedly delay the uncrewed test flight for at least two days, according to Reuters.

SpaceX's Starship was dubbed the world's largest rocket if it ever took flight beyond Earth. The vehicle, which stands taller than the Statue of Liberty, was preparing to launch from the company's "Starbase" facility at Boca Chica, Texas when it was called off.

It was earlier announced to have a two-hour launch window that started at 8 a.m. The initial launch window was a 90-minute flight into space, which was then changed to 48 hours due to a frozen pressurization valve in the lower-stage rocket booster.

The earlier available launch window for the Starship test flight would be on Wednesday.

The company later noted in a tweet that the teams are working to push toward April 20, Wednesday, for a second Starship launch attempt.

READ NEXT: Elon Musk Removes New York Times Twitter Checkmark as Publication Won't Pay for Verification

Starship Test Flight Delayed

Elon Musk, co-founder and CEO of SpaceX, said that expectations should stay low for the Starship system, noting that "success is not what should be expected," as reported by The Guardian.

Musk added that he guessed tomorrow would not be a success, saying that it is just a "very fundamentally difficult thing."

SpaceX has never shied away from having test flights explode. Musk said that private venture benefits from understanding what goes wrong.

Instead of launching the rocket, the SpaceX engineers used the countdown as a "wet-dress rehearsal fueling test," as cited by CBS News.

SpaceX commentator Kate Tice said that any data they can collect will be "super helpful."

Tice added that they are continuing to gather information, which will provide the team with the knowledge for the next launch attempt.

Engineers noted problems with a valve used to help pressurize less than 10 minutes to go. The tanks must be pressurized to specific levels.

Musk said on Sunday that the chances of them calling to abort the launch "are high," which was why he wanted to set expectations appropriately.

He went on to say that the launch is not like "a train leaving the station" at the exam scheduled time. He said it would be the "first launch of a very complicated, gigantic rocket."

Elon Musk's Starship

Many expecting viewers filled coastal locations on the Gulf of Mexico to watch the postponed historic event.

Musk was reportedly hoping to upend the rocket business with the launch of the gigantic rocket.

BBC News noted that the vehicle was aimed to be fully and rapidly reusable, with Musk having a goal to fly people and satellites to orbit several times a day the same way a jet airliner might do.

In addition, the billionaire also believes that he could introduce the era of interplanetary travel for humans.

The U.S. space agency NASA granted SpaceX almost $3 billion to develop a variant of Starship that could help its astronauts return to the moon.

READ MORE: Elon Musk Apologizes After Online Row With Disabled Twitter Worker

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Mary Webber

WATCH: SpaceX scrubs Starship rocket test flight l GMA - from Good Morning America


Donald Trump's legal troubles continue as a federal judge denied his request for a one-month delay regarding his rape trial filed by E. Jean Carroll.

Federal Judge Lewis A Kaplan of Manhattan ruled that the civil trial on claims against Trump by the columnist E. Jean Carroll will begin as scheduled on April 25, 2023, despite Trump's motion to delay.

According to The Guardian, Trump denies raping the former magazine columnist, even denying that he even knows her. He also claims she is not his type, so he would not want to rape her.

Trump attorney Joe Tacopina argued that his client's recent indictment in New York state court regarding the Stormy Daniels hush money payments, which had criminal falsification of business records charges, had created such negative publicity that a one-month cooling-off period was needed before the rape trial could begin.

However, Kaplan denied this motion, saying in his ruling, "There was, of course, a great deal of media coverage - some of it invited and, indeed, provoked by Mr. Trump - first of the apparently impending indictment, then the indictment itself, and finally the arraignment. However, the judge added that there is no evidence that a "cooling off period" is needed or effective in this case.

The judge also stated that the indictment was "of his own doing" because Trump himself made public statements on his social media platform, in press conferences, and in interviews, with the judge saying, "It does not sit well for Mr Trump to promote pretrial publicity and then to claim that coverage that he promoted was prejudicial to him and should be taken into account as supporting a further delay."

Kaplan also stated that this was all a delay tactic by Trump and his team and added that they have no justification for an adjournment.

READ MORE: Donald Trump Rape Case: Judge Allows Grab 'Em by the P*ssy' Tape as Evidence

The E. Jean Carroll Civil Case Against Donald Trump

Former Elle magazine columnist E. Jean Carroll filed a defamation lawsuit against Donald Trump in 2019. However, it was placed on hold by a judge as Trump was still president at that time.

However, the case is now moving forward as Carrol claimed that Trump defamed her by denying he raped her in late 1995 or early 1996, according to Al Jazeera News.

In New York, state law allows an individual to bring civil claims against an alleged rapist after the criminal statute of limitations has expired. This was what brought Carroll and several others to put forward cases they have against the former president.

DeSantis PAC Takes Aim at Donald Trump With New Ad Campaign

While Trump is dealing with a criminal case and a civil case back in New York, a DeSantis PAC has launched an ad campaign against the former president, who is running against Florida Governor Ron DeSantis for the Republican nomination.

According to The Independent, the new television ad accused Trump of spending airtime and money attacking the likely Republican presidential candidate, saying, "Why is he spending millions attacking the Republican governor of Florida? Trump's stealing pages from the Biden-Pelosi playbook."

The two Republican frontrunners have been at each other's throats since DeSantis had been posturing that he was running for the presidency.

READ MORE: Donald Trump Rants Against the Supreme Court

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Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: Judge rejects Trump's request to delay civil rape case - CBS New York
The president of Mexico, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, criticized the United States and claimed that the latter is "spying" and doing "interference" in Mexico.

The Mexican president's disapproval came after U.S. prosecutors announced charges against Sinaloa Cartel members, including sons of its leader Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, according to ABC News Go.

Lopez Obrador suggested on Monday that the case had been built based on information that U.S. agents in Mexico gathered. He then went on to say that foreign agents do not have the authority to be in Mexico.

Mike Vigil said that Lopez Obrador mistakenly supposed the Drug Enforcement Administration agents needed to be in Mexico to build up a case against the Sinaloa Cartel members.

Vigil was a former DEA agent and used to head international operations.

However, much of the information seemed to have come from trafficking suspects caught in the United States.

Vigil claimed that Lopez Obrador wants to "completely destroy the working relationship," which took decades to create.

Aside from allegations of spying, Lopez Obrador has also expressed resentment toward U.S. allegations of corruption in Mexico.

READ NEXT: Mexico: 18 Dead, Including Mayor and His Father, After Los Tequileros Gunmen Sprayed Bullets at Town Hall, House in Guerrero

Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador on U.S.

Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador scrutinized the U.S. investigation on Sinaloa Cartel members, calling the probe "abusive, arrogant interference that should not be accepted" under any circumstances.

Associated Press News reported that Lopez Obrador said that Mexico's priority is guaranteeing public safety in the country.

Helping and cooperating with the U.S. government in fighting fentanyl traffic comes second in the list of the country's deemed importance.

The Mexican president has acknowledged that there were dozens of labs producing fentanyl in Mexico while using precursor chemicals from China.

At one point, Lopez Obrador threatened to close Mexico on DEA agents. It was during a time when former defense secretary Gen. Salvador Cienfuegos was facing charges of aiding drug cartels. Cienfuegos was returned and was quickly freed after.

Since the ultimatum with Cienfuegos, Lopez Obrador's administration has imposed restrictive rules on how agents can operate in Mexico while also slowing down visa approvals for a time.

U.S. Charges Sinaloa Cartel Members

The sons of El Chapo are among the members of Mexico's Sinaloa cartel charged in the United States. The charge revolves around the group's operation of fentanyl trafficking to the United States, which was allegedly fueled by Chinese chemical companies.

Anne Milgram, chief of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, said El Chapo's sons are "poisoning and killing Americans," as reported by BBC News.

The sons charged were namely Jesus Alfredo Guzman Salazar, Ivan Archivaldo Guzman Salazar, and Ovidio Guzman Lopez.

Meanwhile, federal prosecutors announced three separate indictments charging 28 defendants based in Mexico, China, and Guatemala. Eight of those charged are in custody.

Attorney General Merrick Garland called Sinaloa Cartel's operation the "largest, most violent, and most prolific" around the world.

Ovidio was arrested in January in Mexico. He is the sole member of Los Chapitos, the name of the group that is being led by El Chapo's sons, in custody and awaiting extradition.

During his arrest operation, at least 29 people were killed, including gang members and military officials.

READ MORE: El Chapo's Sinaloa Cartel Continues to Thrive Despite the Drug Lord's Absence: Report

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Written by: Mary Webber

WATCH: AMLO acusa a DEA de espionaje; ve intromision abusiva y prepotente por infiltracion - from SinEmbargo Al Aire


The United States Department of Labor has sued the owner of a Lincoln roofing company over his alleged refusal to cooperate with an investigation into a report of a man falling from a roof in Lincoln.

Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su on Wednesday brought a petition asking a judge to compel Christopher Arps of Capital City Roofing and Construction to comply and bring relevant documents to the area director of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration office in Omaha.

In the petition, attorney Katharine Sangha of the Department of Labor said that on Feb. 14, OSHA received a report that six days earlier someone performing residential roofing work for Capital City Roofing had fallen off the roof of a duplex in the Capitol Beach area and went into cardiac arrest.

The worker allegedly had been on a roof greater than 6 feet tall without fall protection, she said.

An OSHA compliance safety and health officer called Arps to investigate the report. But, Sangha said, Arps was "extremely belligerent" and said nothing happened.

The investigator then obtained reports related to the incident from the Lincoln Police.

Sangha said Arps has refused to provide OSHA any information about his business or the workers, including their employment status, even after they served him with a subpoena March 1, which Arps ripped up in front of the process server.

Despite reminders sent by USPS certified mail and by email, multiple deadlines passed without Arps producing any documents to OSHA, she said.

Magistrate Judge Michael D. Nelson set a hearing on the matter next month in U.S. District Court in Omaha.

Counties where the most people work from home in Nebraska Counties where the most people work from home in Nebraska
Two felony counts have been brought against a White man for allegedly shooting a Black Missouri teen who had mistaken his house for another, according to Al Jazeera.

Andrew Lester, an 85-year-old homeowner, has been charged with felony assault and armed criminal action for shooting the 16-year-old boy, Ralph Yarl, who had head and right arm injuries and was taken to the hospital.

Clay County, Missouri's prosecutor, Zachary Thompson, said in a press conference on Monday that the maximum sentence for armed criminal action is 15 years, while the maximum penalty for felony assault is "up to life."

Thompson informed reporters that the "A felony" was the "highest level of offense in Missouri," explaining why attempted murder and hate crime charges were not pursued.

"Other charges may not carry that same level of range of punishment," Thompson said, adding that it has always been his intention to seek justice for the child involved in this situation, and he does not wish to risk that by discussing the facts of the case with the media.

READ NEXT: Missouri: Massive Brawl Involving 150 Teens at Kansas City Theme Park

Missouri Teen Sustained 'Life-Changing' Injuries

The Missouri teen, a clarinetist and bassoonist, who his family calls a "musical genius," was shot around 10:30 p.m. on Thursday and transported to the hospital, said Classic FM.

Although the young musician is claimed to be doing better, he reportedly suffered "life-changing injuries" in the incident.

Yarl's family claims that he is one of the best bass clarinet players in Missouri, and he was just recognized for his talent by being given a second chair in the Missouri All-State Band.

In addition to being a section leader in the school marching band, he performs with the school's Jazz and competition bands and is a member of the Northland Symphony Youth Orchestra.

A large demonstration was organized Sunday night in Yarl's honor in the vicinity of the Missouri shooting, with the slogan "An attack against one kid is an attack against all."

Missouri Teen Released from Hospital

Ralph has been released from the hospital, according to family attorney Ben Crump, who announced on CNN on Monday.

After being shot in the head, Crump said Ralph is still dealing with stress from the event, but he and his family are grateful he is alive.

Ralph is young and strong, so they are optimistic about his prognosis, he said.

"He's not out of the woods yet, but the great thing is, (medical officials) said he was stable enough to go to his home," he added.

The Missouri teen is receiving medical attention from his mother, who is a nurse.

Meanwhile, after some delays, the Missouri shooting suspect, Andrew D. Lester, was arrested and charged with armed criminal activity and first-degree assault.

Class A felony charge is warranted for an assault, said Thompson, and Lester faces a minimum of 10 years and maybe up to 30 years or life in prison if he is proven guilty, NPR Kansas City reported.

READ MORE: Chicago Teens' Massive Mob Clash with Police

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Written by: Bert Hoover

WATCH: Community demands justice for Missouri teen shot after ringing wrong doorbell - From NBC News
Former President Donald Trump on Monday called on Fox News and its owner Rupert Murdoch to "admit" that the 2020 presidential election was stolen from him and that there has been actual voter fraud.

Trump called Murdoch to support his baseless claims about the 2020 presidential election amid the company's Dominion lawsuit, worth $1.6 billion.

In a Truth Social post, the former president said Fox News is "in big trouble if they do not expose the truth on cheating" during the election in 2020, which he lost against President Joe Biden, USA Today reported.

Donald Trump went on to say that Murdoch should just say "he just didn't know." However, he contradicted the statement, saying, "But that is hard to believe." He then urged Murdoch to "just tell the truth, and good things will happen."





Fox News and its top executives are currently facing a $1.6 billion defamation lawsuit filed by Dominion Voting Systems, which claims that the conservative network defamed the company by repeatedly claiming, without evidence, election fraud claims involving their voting machines.

READ NEXT: Donald Trump Slams Fox News for 'Promoting' Ron DeSantis

Fox News Dominion Lawsuit

Former Fox News producer Abby Grossberg said she recently found more evidence regarding the Dominion defamation lawsuit against her former employer.

NBC News reported that Grossberg intends to use it and turn it over to the court. Grossberg used to be a senior producer for hosts Maria Bartiromo and Tucker Carlson.

In a new sworn statement, she alleged that Fox lawyers ignored repeated reminders about a different cellphone in her possession and did not search it during court-ordered discovery.

Grossberg was fired in March. She filed a lawsuit claiming that the company's lawyers forced her into having misleading testimony in the Dominion case.

She further noted that she was being used as a scapegoat for the 2020 election coverage of Fox News. On the other hand, Fox News said she was fired for releasing privileged information.

Delaware Superior Court Judge Eric Davis recently admonished Fox lawyers for withholding evidence and not being straightforward with the court, adding that the company would have to foot the bill if an additional deposition was necessary.

Fox News 2020 Election

In February, Rupert Murdoch noted that some Fox News commentators endorsed the false allegations by Donald Trump and his allies about the 2020 election being stolen without supporting evidence.

Murdoch named some of the commentators he was referring such as Lou Dobbs, Bartiromo, Jeanine Pirro, and Sean Hannity, as the Associated Press News reported.

In September 2020, Murdoch urged that Dobbs be fired because he was "an extremist," according to the voting system company's court filing.

Murdoch added that he thought it was "really bad" for former New York City Mayor Rudy Guiliani to advise Trump as the former NYC mayor's "judgment was bad," along with having an "extreme partisan."

The Fox News owner was then asked if he could have asked Giuliani and Sidney Powell not to be put on the air, to which he responded, "I could have. But I didn't."

READ MORE: Donald Trump Expects to Be Arrested on Tuesday, Calls His Supporters to Protest

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Written by: Mary Webber

WATCH: Dominion v. Fox News Trial to Start This Week - From CBS Evening News




The appeal for a new trial of Derek Chauvin, one of the suspects in George Floyd's murder case, was rejected by the Minnesota Court of Appeals on Monday.

Three judges on the Minnesota appeals court have upheld the murder conviction of Chauvin, a former police officer who knelt on Floyd's neck for more than nine minutes.

According to Law & Crime, Chauvin appealed on several grounds. Some of his legal team's arguments include that the trial should have been moved out of Minneapolis due to publicity surrounding the case.

The former police officer also argued that a juror's comments during jury selection showed that the jury was prejudiced against him. However, the three judges disagreed and affirmed Chauvin's murder conviction.

Presiding Judge Peter Reyes and judges Elise Larson and Roger Klaphake noted that Chauvin had failed to show that the jury was prejudiced against him as a result of publicity surrounding the case during the pretrial.

Reyes wrote in the court's ruling that police officers "undoubtedly have a challenging, difficult, and sometimes dangerous job." However, Reyes noted that "no one is above the law."

The judges also considered a statement of a juror, who said the state's police are more likely to practice force against Black people. The juror added that "Blacks and other minorities" do not get the same treatment as "Whites in the criminal justice system."

READ NEXT: Derek Chauvin Prosecutors Seek 30 Years in Jail for George Floyd's Murder

Derek Chauvin Asking For New Trial

In March, a lawyer defending Derek Chauvin explained why his client's convictions in George Floyd's murder case should be overturned.

William Mohrman argued that the pretrial publicity made it impossible for Chauvin to acquire a fair trial in 2021. According to NPR, Mohrman said that aside from the pretrial publicity, there is also physical pressure on the courthouse.

Former Acting U.S. Solicitor General Neal Katyal argued that Chauvin's trial is "one of the most transparent and thorough" in U.S. history.

Katyal noted that the arguments before the appeals court "do not come close" to reversing the conviction. He added that even if they did, the evidence of "Chauvin's guilt was captured on video" for everyone to see.

George Floyd Murder Case

Derek Chavin was sentenced in 2021 to 22 and a half years after a jury found him guilty of murdering George Floyd.

The jurors convicted Chauvin of second-degree murder and third-degree murder, as well as second-degree manslaughter. Hennepin County Judge Peter Cahill delivered the sentence.

Daily Mail reported that Chauvin earlier pleaded guilty to a separate federal civil rights charge and was sentenced to 21 years in federal prison, which he is now serving.

Chauvin was transferred from the state prison to a federal prison last year. The latter was considered a far safer and less restrictive place to serve his sentence.

The former police officer also did not offer any apology to Floyd's family present in the courtroom. However, he wished Floyd's children "all the best in their life."

Chauvin also hoped Floyd's children would have "excellent guidance in becoming good adults." Other police officers involved in Floyd's fatal arrest in May 2020 were J. Alexander Kueng, Thomas Lane, and Tou Thao.

READ MORE: Derek Chauvin Trial Moves Forward, Video of George Floyd's Final Moments to Be Played

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Written by: Mary Webber

WATCH: Derek Chauvin Murder Conviction Upheld in George Floyd Killing - From WGN News




Hong Kong: Xia Baolong views education units

Vice Chairman of the 13th Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference and the State Councils Hong Kong & Macao Affairs Office Director Xia Baolong concluded his six-day trip to Hong Kong by visiting various education units.

Accompanied by Chief Executive John Lee and Secretary for Education Choi Yuk-lin, Mr Xia visited the University of Hong Kong to gain an understanding of its medicine, scientific research and innovation aspects.

In the afternoon, Mr Xia visited the Chinese Foundation Secondary School and Ma Tau Chung Government Primary School (Hung Hom Bay) to understand secondary and primary education in Hong Kong.

He learnt about the progress of the implementation of national education and national security education, and the promotion of national awareness in schools.

Mr Xia departed for Beijing this afternoon.

This story has been published on: 2023-04-18. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Rena Murshud

The presentation of the scientific monograph "Heydar Aliyev - a view from Russia" took place at the Novosibirsk State University of Economics and Management (NSUEU).

According to Azernews, the monograph was published with the support of the Consulate General of Azerbaijan in Yekaterinburg. The authors are Professor of the Novosibirsk State Technical University Mikhail Chernyakov and Associate Professor of the Novosibirsk State University of Economics and Management Kamal Akberov, scientific editor - head of the department of the Institute of History of the National Academy of Sciences of Azerbaijan (ANAS), Candidate of Historical Sciences Jabi Bakhramov.

The authors noted that the monograph "Heydar Aliyev - a view from Russia" is the first scientific study of the legacy of Heydar Aliyev in Russia. They stressed that by studying the documents related to the national leader, they rediscovered this person for themselves, noting that Heydar Aliyev always proceeded from the interests of his people, and thus managed to unite thousands of people around him, became the leader of his people.

Opening the event, member of the editorial board of the book, Acting Consul General of Azerbaijan in Yekaterinburg Shohrat Mustafayev spoke about the exceptional role of national leader Heydar Aliyev in the history of the former USSR and Azerbaijan. Expressing gratitude to all those who assisted in the publication of the book, the diplomat noted that it reflected the most important milestones in the life and political past of national leader Heydar Aliyev.

NSUEM Vice-Rector Vladimir Romashin stressed that it would be useful for university students to study the legacy of Heydar Aliyev.

It was the wise decisions of Heydar Aliyev that made it possible to attract the first foreign investments to Azerbaijan, the economy of the republic reached a new level, he said, adding that Heydar Aliyev is a person who went down in history.

Deputy Minister of Education of the Novosibirsk region Svetlana Korolkova noted that Heydar Aliyev was the leader of all Azerbaijanis. Wherever he was, Aliyev found an opportunity to meet with representatives of the Azerbaijani diaspora. He always highly appreciated the feasible contribution that the Azerbaijanis of the world make to the development of their homeland. The life and work of Heydar Aliyev are a real school for young people.

Mais Mammadov, Deputy Chairman of the Legislative Assembly of the Novosibirsk Region, brought to the attention of those present that the presentation dedicated to the study of the heritage of the outstanding political figure Heydar Aliyev was of great importance.

We have witnessed interest in the personality of Heydar Aliyev among the students of NSUE, one of the ten best universities in Russia. This is certainly an important factor. The centenary of Heydar Aliyev is widely celebrated not only in Azerbaijan, but all over the world, including Russia. We, Azerbaijanis living in Russia, also contribute to the study and popularization of Heydar Aliyev's philosophy, M. Mammadov said.

Anna Lopareva, head of the Department for Nationalities Affairs and Interaction with Religious Organizations of the Novosibirsk Region, in turn, said that Azerbaijanis living in Novosibirsk are distinguished by exemplary behavior and this is an indicator of their upbringing in the right environment, respect for their history and traditions. Of course, the merits of Heydar Aliyev in the formation of Azerbaijani thinking and ideas are undeniable, the head of the department added.

At the end of the event, the participants were given copies of the book signed by the authors, and a film dedicated to national leader Heydar Aliyev was shown.
In retaliation to a recent court decision concerning NorthWestern Energys gas-fired power plant in Laurel, Republican lawmakers will vote on exempting the states top permitting agency from conducting environmental review on strip mining, coal mining and metal mine reclamation.

Following a suspension of the deadline for introducing new bills, House lawmakers on Monday went to work on a last-minute proposal to exempt Montanas Department of Environmental Quality from following Montana Environmental Policy Act on mining matters.

MEPA, as the policy act is known, spells out the steps for reviewing projects, not only for the environment, but also social, historical site and wildlife impacts.

House Bill 971 sets up a hostage situation in which thorough environmental review of mining dies if the state Supreme Court concludes the MEPA process extends to carbon emissions.

Eleven lobbyists, including one speaking for the Billings Area Chamber of Commerce, spoke in favor of House Bill 971, characterizing it as good for jobs. In short, title HB 971 was to revise MEPA to exclude review of greenhouse gas emissions.

At least 66 people lined up to speak against the bill, either in person or online.

Bill co-sponsor Rep. Josh Kassmier told the House Natural Resources Committee that it was time to show the courts who was boss.

We got to take action and make sure that we're the ones that create law, not judges, Kassmier, a Fort Benton Republican said. House Bill 971 makes it clear that unless and until the federal government by the act of Congress, mandates that carbon is a regulated pollutant, or unless Montana policymakers enact laws to regulate carbon, a procedural review does not include climate analysis. This bill is critical to restoring the balance of power in Montana, to protect the Montana Legislatures authority to enact laws that uphold the constitution as it was intended.

The bill later passed out of committee on a party-line vote.

At issue was an April 7 court ruling by District Judge Michael Moses that temporarily stopped construction of NorthWestern Energys gas-fired power plant under construction near Laurel. The ruling was cited in Republican caucus Friday by House Speaker Matt Regier, as the reason for suspending the rules deadline for introducing new bills. The deadline is more than a month past due.

"It's a big question mark. It's it's something that we need to address. We have the ability now to address it," Regier told his caucus. "We're in session. We're in the legislative branch, that is our job. We have some great legal minds. We've been working with the Senate, as well as the House here to come up with some legislation that's going to address this."

Regier is also a co-sponsor of HB 971. The gas-fired power plant at issue is a 175-megawatt reciprocating internal combustion generator that's faced multiple challenges since 2021. There were supply problems early, then legal challenges to state's permitting, and right of way issues for the gas pipeline bored beneath the Yellowstone River to serve the power plant.

The land where power plant is being built is zoned for agriculture. NorthWestern has chosen to build on the site without getting local government to change the land use to industrial. There is a lawsuit regarding the zoning.

Moses found that Montanas Department of Environmental Quality, a permitting agency, failed to take a hard look at two environmental issues when giving approval to NorthWesterns project. DEQ didnt review the power plants greenhouse gas emissions, while also ignoring the light pollution from the power plant. DEQ concluded the carbon dioxide impacts were insignificant. Moses saw it differently.

"This power plant is one of NorthWestern Energys largest projects in Montana and it is up-wind of the largest city in Montana. It will dump nearly 770,000 tons of greenhouse gases per year into the air," Moses wrote. "The pristine Yellowstone River is adjacent to the project. This project will have a life of more than 30 years. That amounts to more than 23,100,000 tons of greenhouse gas emissions directly impacting the largest city in Montana that is less than 15 miles downwind. To most Montanans who clearly understand their fundamental constitutional right to a clean and healthful environment, this is a significant project."

NorthWestern, the day after the Moses ruling, said it would appeal the decision to the state Supreme Court.

Monday, DEQ Director Chris Dorrington told the House Natural Resources Committee he wasnt sure what the agencys response to Moses would be. The court order directed DEQ to evaluate the impact of carbon emissions and light pollution and then determine whether its necessary to abandon its 20-page environmental assessment of the power plant for a more thorough environmental impact statement.

Moses didnt rule that the power plants carbon emissions were beyond permitting. Rather, the judge ruled that DEQ hadnt bothered to consider the carbon emissions at all. The court sided with DEQs permitting judgements in every category in which the agency made criteria-based conclusions.

NorthWestern Energy didnt participate in Mondays hearing. Earlier in the day, the company issued a statement by John Hines, vice president of supply and Montana government affairs.

If Montanas applicable permitting criteria are modified after a permit is approved, any project in any sector will be jeopardized and have more risk. That kind of risk will have far-reaching, negative, consequences for Montanas economy. It is my understanding that providing certainty regarding the rules and criteria a permit applicant is subject to is what the Legislature is attempting to address, Hines said. The Yellowstone County Generating Station was permitted based on defined criteria. The permitting process was followed. The order seems to impose additional criteria, beyond what is required by law, and outside that established process.

Supporters of the bill framed the Moses ruling as grinding business to a halt in Montana. The coal lobby, union representatives, and the Montana Chamber of Commerce said industry was in danger if DEQ had to assess the impacts of greenhouse gas emissions to permit a project.

Mr. Chairman, I fear that this judicial decision has opened up a Pandora's box, said Alan Olson of the Montana Petroleum Association. I don't believe the judge was familiar with the statutes surrounding his decision. But once again, just like that old, Herman's Hermits song, you know, Henry, the Eighth second verse, same as the first. It's time to remind them that it's the Legislature's constitutional duties. Under Article Nine of the Constitution to enact these laws.

The them to whom Olson refers is the Montana judicial system and more specifically the Montana Supreme Court, lawmakers waged a losing battle against the Supreme Court and the constitutions of Montana and the United States during the 2021 legislative session and the current one.

After an expensive round of lawsuits challenging the legality of more than two dozen laws from the 2021 legislative session, the governors office requested $2.6 million to pay for court challenges.

Many of the people testifying against HB 971 said without the permitting steps spelled out in the Montana Environmental Policy Act, their right to a clean and healthful environment was in jeopardy.

Our founders feared that corporations might amass more power than the people. That threat is in this room today, said Joan Kresich of Livingston, board chairperson of Northern Plains Resource Council. Please listen to our voices and honor your promise to serve Montana citizens, the bedrock of our fragile democracy. In spite of scientific agreement to end new fossil fuel burning plants, in spite of the utility brashly building a methane plant on land zoned for agricultural use. A plant that utility customers will be stuck paying for long after it becomes untenable. In spite of a big majority of us clamoring for a clean, affordable energy future. In spite of our youth who know the world they're in, they will inherit, depends on moving away from fossil fuels. This bill is serving the shareholders of the utility.
Gov. Josh Shapiros administration plans to temporarily make xylazine, known as tranq, a scheduled narcotic to limit access to the sedative used by veterinarians that has been a growing threat in illicit drugs.

Pennsylvania Acting Secretary of Health Dr. Debra Bogen submitted a notice to temporarily add xylazine to the list of schedule III drugs under Pennsylvanias Controlled Substance, Drug, Device, and Cosmetic Act.

Xylazine, or tranq, is a powerful sedative used by veterinarians on large animals and is increasingly being found mixed with illicit opioids.

Last fall, the FDA warned that xylazine is not safe for humans and naloxone may not be able to reverse its effects. Users may develop skin ulcers and infected wounds, decaying tissue and bacterial infections, which can lead to amputation.

Scheduling these drugs allows us to put tighter controls, security and record-keeping requirements in place to keep them out of our communities, Shapiro said Tuesday at a news conference in Philadelphia. Scheduled drugs must be stored in locked facilities. It also gives law enforcement the ability to charge and have another tool at their disposal.

The move in Pennsylvania comes after Dr. Rahul Gupta, the director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy, last week declared xylazine mixed with fentanyl as an emerging threat in the U.S.

The drug is a safe and effective animal sedative when used appropriately. Veterinarians that use xylazine have no need to worry if they are using it for legitimate purposes, Shapiro said, they will still have access to it for their work.

Officials are seeing illegal use of xylazine in almost every single community in Pennsylvania, said Dr. Latika Davis-Jones, acting secretary for the department of drug and alcohol programs.

The Monroe County District Attorneys office said during a recent drug investigation, a suspect told investigators the majority of heroin in Monroe County was fentanyl and/or xylazine.

Bogen also plans to schedule nitazines, synthetic opioids that have never been approved for use in the United States, as a schedule I drug.

Shapiro said since tranq has not been scheduled, it has been easy to access. Scheduling a drug means manufacturers and distributors are required to verify a customer is licensed and authorized to receive a controlled substance, adds more checks on ordering systems and often requires purchasers to sign for the drug.

The Office of Attorney General, where Shapiro served before becoming governor, will receive a copy of the notices and has 30 days to comment. Officials said the drugs could be scheduled by May.

The steps we are taking today will help ensure this dangerous drug cant be diverted from legitimate sources to the drug dealers harming our communities, while preserving its important use on animals, Shapiro said. Xylazine has a real purpose for veterinarians, but is being abused by drug dealers and harming those suffering from substance use disorder.

The presence of tranq in Pennsylvania has grown, from contributing to 90 overdose deaths in 2017, to 375 overdoses in 2020, to contributing to 575 overdose deaths across 30 counties in 2022, Davis-Jones said.

The drug is increasingly prevalent in Philadelphia, where the city reported 90% of street opioid samples contained xylazine. Davis-Jones said Kensington is the epicenter of xylazines emergence in Pennsylvania.

We are right here in the eye of the storm, she said.

State Sen. Christine Tartaglione, an alcoholic in recovery for 20 years, has pushed to have the drugs scheduled and says the move is a vital step to keep people safe.

It has been a long time coming, she said. This decision is the right decision and it will save the lives of countless Pennsylvanians. Thank you, governor.

For the opioid crisis, Shapiro said the state needs to bring enforcement, prevention and treatment together in order to tackle it.

Drug addition is a disease, not a crime, and we need to treat it that way, he said. People suffering from it deserve better access to treatment and better treatment in their communities.

Officials spoke of harm reduction and a multi-disciplinary approach to tackling the opioid crisis, but Shapiro said his stance has not changed on safe injection sites.

I do not support safe injection sites, the governor said to some applause at the news conference Tuesday.

Anyone seeking substance use treatment or recovery resources for themselves or a loved one can call the toll-free PA Get Help Now helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (1-800-662-4357), or go online to the Addiction Treatment Locator, Assessment, and Standards Platform (ATLAS) at treatmentatlas.org.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to lehighvalleylive.com.

Sarah Cassi may be reached at scassi@lehighvalleylive.com.
By Lamont McClure

Here in Northampton County, our primary goal is to ensure that every child is safe. Another commitment and goal of mine as county executive is to be as transparent as possible.

The Northampton County Children, Youth and Families (CYF) Division handles over 8,000 calls on our child abuse hotline every year. We have a strict procedure when a call is received from Childline with allegations of abuse or neglect.

The information received is screened by a trained caseworker to determine whether the referral should be screened in for further assessment or investigation. The caseworker can also determine if the allegation does not meet the General Protective Services guidelines and can be screened out. It is essential to mention that by law, Child Protective Services allegations of sexual or physical abuse, or medical neglect, must be investigated.

Ultimately, when CYF receives a call about child abuse or neglect, what follows immediately is an extensive process that includes tough choices and has long-lasting implications for the families involved.

Research shows that in the United States, 1 in 3 children are investigated for abuse and neglect by the time they are 18 years old. For children of color, this number is 1 in 2. Nationally, Black children are almost three times more likely to have some interaction with the child welfare system. Once referred to the child welfare system, Black children are also more likely to be screened for investigation and placed in out-of-home care.

While Northampton County has implemented extensive Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion training in our Department of Human Services (DHS) for every staff member, these statistics alone demand a different approach to the child welfare system.

In order to continuously improve accuracy and reduce racial bias, in 2021, the county entered an agreement with the Centre for Social Data Analytics to develop a Northampton County Decision Aid Tool (NDAT). NDAT is a predictive risk model that determines how likely it is that a child will be placed in out-of-home care within one year.

The model relies solely on Northampton Countys existing child welfare data and was built specifically for our county. This reliance solely on our existing data makes it unique to all other existing models developed by the Centre for Social Data Analytics, a research center at Auckland University of Technology in New Zealand.

Some features NDAT considers include the childs age, prior history with the child welfare system, prior history of abuse or neglect allegations, or prior history of removal from the home. It is important to note that race is not a factor considered by this tool. Since the information considered by the tool is already being used by caseworkers, and because no additional outside data is included in the model, the NDAT does not run the risk of additional bias in the decision-making.

Currently, the NDAT is in the pilot phase and is being used strictly as a Quality Assurance tool for screen out decisions. When screening caseworkers receive an allegation of abuse or neglect, they assess that referral as they always have. If they determine the referral can be screened out, this information is sent to a supervisor for review and approval. It is in this step that the NDAT is used.

The supervisor reviews the referral information and any subsequent information obtained by the screening caseworker, followed by a review of the risk score generated by the NDAT to determine if the screening decision and risk score align. The NDAT score helps provide confidence in screening out low-risk children and families while ensuring that high-risk children and families are provided additional supports if warranted.

Bottom line, NDAT will allow us to minimize the unnecessary trauma of a child welfare investigation for low-risk children and families while ensuring high-risk children and families are not overlooked. It also allows us to maximize our resources by directing our services to the children and families most in need.

Independent evaluations of existing tools that were developed previously by the Centre for Social Data Analytics concluded that using the Decision Aid Tool improved the accuracy of identifying children in need of services and was associated with a reduction in racial disparities in case openings.

All counties in Pennsylvania are required to use a risk and safety assessment tool to inform any removal decisions. It should be noted that a court order is also required to approve any removal recommendations made by CYF in all Pennsylvania counties.

Prior to the implementation of NDAT, Northampton County DHS spent a significant amount of time holding meetings to educate various sectors of our community on the use and benefits of this tool. These included community forums with mandated reporters and individuals who work with the families we serve, as well as a small forum of parents who had or have involvement with Northampton County CYF.

I want to stress that the NDAT is one part of the decision-making process and is not relied on as the final decision-maker. It is intended to help support human caseworkers and supervisors to make decisions using professional judgment.

Northampton County DHS is preparing a Methodology report which will be released to the public upon completion. Continuously improving and strengthening the countys CYF is a long-term goal of mine. I hope that the steps we take in Northampton County to keep children safe and families together will be a model for others. If you suspect an incidence of child abuse or neglect, please report it to Northampton County CYF at 610-252-9060 or call the Child Line at 1-800-932-0313.

Lamont McClure is Northampton Countys executive. He is a Democrat.
On Sunday April 16th a special ceremony was held at Fitzmaurice Place in Portlaoise to mark the 95th anniversary of the first east-west transatlantic flight in April 1928.

With representatives of the Irish Air Corps, the Irish United Nations Veterans Association Post 27 Portlaoise Branch, elected representatives of Laois County Council, the Col Fitzmaurice Commemoration Committee, and Laois Heritage Society. The event was enhanced musically by skilled piper in Cormac Bowell.

The flight is also considered by some to be one of the seeds of the growth of the aviation industry in Ireland, resulting in the country punching above its weight in many fields of aviation. Ireland is a leader in aircraft maintenance as well as being the home of the largest airline in Europe and we are the leader in the aircraft leasing sector worldwide. A PWC report published in March 2023 noted that aircraft leasing alone contributes almost 1 bn to the Irish economy and provides over 8,500 full time jobs.

It is fitting that Portlaoise and Fitzmaurice Place are the annual centres for the commemoration of that first flight, as it was in Portlaoise that the father of Irish aviation enjoyed a happy upbringing and received all his formal education  just up the hill from Fitzmaurice Place in the Christian Brothers School. SEE BELOW PICTURE.

Enjoying the sunshine on Sunday morning for the 95th Anniversary ceremony were Teddy Fennelly, President of Laois Heritage Society and The Col James Fitzmaurice Commemorative Society, Catherine Casey, Head of Heritage and Climate Change at the Heritage Council and Sinead Holland, Chair Laois Heritage Society

It was also here, Fitzmaurice reveals in his memoirs, that he got his inspiration to become a world-famous aviator by observing the construction of the Portlaoise Plane, the first airplane built in the Republic, at Alldritts Garage, also up the street, and watching it take flight in what is known locally as the Golden croft which was an expansive meadow beside the railway station. The name of the field will live on, as it is now the name on a new Cluid housing development on the site, comprising 67 new houses and apartments.

Alan Phelan, Fitzmaurice Commemoration Committee, Chairperson spoke at the event.

Today we mark the 95th anniversary of the flight of the Bremen, which on 12th April 1928 crewed by our own Col James Fitzmaurice, Capt. Hermann Kohl & Baron Gunther von Huenfeld completed the First successful East to West Crossing of the Atlantic by Air. This flight is considered worldwide to be a landmark achievement in aviation history.

Cllr Thomasina, Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council laid a wreath at the Col Fitzmaurice Sculpture in memory of Fitzmaurice and his co-pilots of the flight, Captain Hermann Kohl and Baron Von Huenfeld. Laois County Council has been very supportive of the Portlaoise Plane project and were instrumental to the success of last years Festival Of Flight. Laois County Council were also represented at the event by Cllr Willie Aird, Cllr Catherine Fitzgerald and Cllr Marie Tuohy. SEE BELOW PICTURE.

Teddy Fennelly, President of Laois Heritage Society and The Col James Fitzmaurice Commemorative Society, Cllr Thomasina Connell, Cathaoirleach Laois County Council, Alan Phelan, Chairperson of The Col James Fitzmaurice Commemorative Society and Michael Parsons, Former Chair of Laois Heritage Society.

General Officer in Command Brigadier General Rory OConnor laid a wreath On behalf of the Air Corps, in memory of former Commanding Officer of the Irish Air Corps Colonel James Fitzmaurice. Fitzmaurice was one of the first pilots in the Aer Corps and it was at Baldonnel that The Bremen took off on its fateful flight on 12th April 1928.

Laois Heritage Society was represented by their Chairperson Sinead Holland who laid a wreath on behalf of the Society

The Irish United Nations Veterans Association are an integral part of the commemoration event every year, and in addition to a guard of honour for the event, a wreath was laid on behalf of IUNVA Post 27 by Jimmy Shiel.

Michael Parsons, former Chair of the Heritage Council laid a wreath on behalf of the Fitzmaurice Commemoration Committee

Teddy Fennelly, President of the Col Fitzmaurice Committee thanked everyone for attending the event.

This annual commemoration will continue each year for the years ahead, all the way up to the Centenary of this historic flight, which we will celebrate in style in 2028. I want to thank you all here present for taking the time out to remember and commemorate a very momentous moment in world aviation history and in particular to remember one of Laoiss and Portlaoises favourite sons.

We hope that his memory and contribution to aviation in Ireland will continue to grow in the Irish psyche as we move closer still to the 100th anniversary in 2028, he said.

Attending the 95th Anniversary Ceremony at Fitzmaurice Place were Cllr Catherine Fitzgerald, Tony Flanagan, National Deputy Treasurer of UN Veterans and Cllr Marie Tuohy

By making the first successful transatlantic East-West flight, these intrepid airmen conquered the wildest ocean on earth and by connecting the two most commercially advanced continents, Europe and America, opened up a whole new world of commerce and communication, he said.

At the Laois Festival of Flight held last year, the Fitzmaurice Commemoration Committee committed themselves to mark each anniversary of the flight with special events up to the centenary year in 2028 and beyond. Already in 2023, the Committee has had a successful outing and tour to the Air Corps in Baldonnel by the winners of the Festival Of Flight Schools Project organised jointly by Laois Heritage Society and the Fitzmaurice Commemoration Committee in conjunction with the Laois Education Centre.

The National School from Paddock in Mountrath and secondary students from Tullamore College, Co Offaly were the winning schools. The Committee thanked Brigadier General Rory O Connor and his staff for organising such a memorable day for the schools. They hope that events like this will instil a passion for aviation in the young minds of students in County Laois and that more aviation pioneers from these parts will follow in Col James Fitzmaurices footsteps. MORE BELOW PIC.

Piper Cormac Bowell leads the UN Vets.

The Committee has announced that several more events are planned in 2023. Firstly, there will a public display of The Portlaoise Plane at the Abbeyleix House and Farm estate open day on Saturday 3rd June in conjunction with the Gordon Bennett Rally. On the day there will also be an Air Display (weather permitting) and a collection of other planes to view.

It is also hoped the display a working model of The Portlaoise Plane which was expertly crafted and recreated by Dermot Gannon. Later in the year, possibly during Heritage Week in August the committee will organise the inaugural flight of the Portlaoise Plane model amongst other activities that are in the planning stage. In the longer term and with the 100th anniversary in mind, a full-length feature documentary on the life and times of Col. James Fitzmaurice has been commissioned and work has commenced putting this project in motion. MORE BELOW PIC.

Sinead Holland, Chair Laois Heritage Society laying a wreath

The Col Fitzmaurice Commemoration Committee is made up of Teddy Fennelly (President), Alan Phelan (Chair), Michael Parsons, Louise Fennelly, PJ Kavanagh, Sean Murray and Catherine Casey. The event was run in partnership with Laois County Council and Laois Heritage Society with technical assistance from the Dunamaise Arts Centre. The Committee is grateful for all this support.
Prison Officers and are to be provided with fitness training through new Exercise and Health Fitness courses costing around 300,000 to be run from Portlaoise.

The Irish Prison Service (IPS) has published a contract tender in which it says it wishes to provide an Exercise & Health Fitness course for prison staff by utilising the services of an external training provider.

It says tenders are requested, from educational institutions, for the design, delivery and assessment of modules leading to the award of a qualification, at NFQ Level 6, in Exercise & Health fitness to Prison Officers.

It says program participation and successful completion is mandatory is mandatory for all gym officers who do not already hold this qualification.

The IPS says the Exercise & Health Fitness course will be delivered part-time over two semesters. The modules identified as part of the training course will include the following:

Human movement studies

Lifestyle, fitness, wellness & nutrition

Fitness assessment & program design

Facility management

First aid responder

Studio exercise to music & free movement

Strength training

Circuits, HIIT, bootcamp & body conditioning

Step training & flexibility training

It is also expected that there will be a final written and practical assessment at to complete the course.

The IPS expects the successful tenderer to use an "innovative blended learning strategy", which caters for all types of

learners and which reduces the number of hours of class/workshop attendance time.

The IPS says the complete programme must be ready for delivery in September 2023. The estimated total value of the contract on offer excluding VAT is 300,000.

This course will be primarily delivered at the Irish Prison Service Training College, Brian Stack House in Portlaoise.
A project to replace public telephone boxes with electric car charging points should be rolled out by Laois County Council to expand the charging locations for the drivers of such vehicles.

Thats the view of Cllr John King, Fine Gael, who raised the issue of EV charging points with the council at a recent meeting. He tabled a motion calling on the local authority to install an electric vehicle charger in the Square, Rathdowney as part of the councils initiative for climate change.

Cllr King outlined the project which was launched in 202 by EasyGo and Eir to spend millions of euros on fast EV charging points.

Telephone kiosks are being removed and being replaced by with state of the art electric vehicle chargers, he told the council.

Cllr King said the scheme was launched in Carlow in 2022 and Easygo has contracts to install similar chargers in Offaly, Kilkenny, Tipperary and other counties. He said Easygo was engaged with other local authorities to identify other potential locations at zero cost to the councils.

He suggested that Laois County Council meet with EasyGo to examine the potential of converting kiosks in Laois.

Paul McLoughlin, Senior Engineer, Roads, replied in writing.

That this Council install an electric vehicle charger in the Square, Rathdowney as part of our initiative for climate change

Laois County Council will develop an application for the installation of an EV charger in the Square in Rathdowney, he said.

The issue was raised at the recent Borris-in-Ossory Mountmellick Municipal District meeting in County Hall, Portlaoise.

Mr Donal Brennan, Director of Services, added that the councils roads section has been in contact with companies such as Easygo to expand electric vehicle charging stations around Laois.

EasyGo and Eir say they are actively engaged with several local authorities around Ireland about this scheme and look forward to making further investment. They say that Eir telephone kiosks will be removed, and replaced (at or near the location) with Tritium 50kW modular fast chargers

No sign of solar farm on edge of Laois Offaly town years after getting green light

EasyGo claims to host and manage over 2400 chargers in Ireland. The first chargers in Co Carlow saw seven telephone kiosks replaced in Carlow, Tullow, Bagenalstown and Borris.



The issue was raised at the recent Borris-in-Ossory Mountmellick Municipal District meeting in County Hall, Portlaoise.
Sam Ryder and Kalush Orchestra are among those confirmed to perform during the grand final of the Eurovision Song Contest 2023.

The international song contest is set to kick off in Liverpool next month after the UK was chosen to host the competition on behalf of war-torn Ukraine.

On Monday, the BBC confirmed the star-studded talent for the shows grand final, which includes last years UK entry Ryder and 2022 Eurovision winners Kalush Orchestra who will perform along with the 26 acts competing in this years final on May 13.

Kalush Orchestra will open the 2023 grand final with a performance titled Voices Of A New Generation, which will include the folk rap groups hit song Stefania.

#Eurovision2023 Grand Final reveal! We can't wait to welcome Kalush Orchestra, Sam Ryder and Eurovision icons, including GO_A and Verka Serduchka, to Liverpool for their Grand Final performances Read all about it here: https://t.co/z1VKT5awxZ pic.twitter.com/MTtszypyNT  BBC Eurovision (@bbceurovision) April 17, 2023

While 33-year-old Ryder will once again take to the Eurovision stage to deliver a performance during the grand finals first interval.

The grand final will also see recognisable Eurovision acts from previous years, including Ukrainian performers Go_A, who represented their country in 2021, Eurovision 2016 winner Jamala and past acts Tina Karol and Verka Serduchka.

The performers will take to the stage during the Eurovision Flag Parade of all 26 grand finalists and will treat viewers and audience members to a unique performance which will put a new twist on their Eurovision entries weaved with British classics.

The final interval act of the grand final will be The Liverpool Songbook  a celebration of the host citys contribution to the world of pop music.

To celebrate the citys musical heritage, the BBC has brought together six past Eurovision acts: Italys Mahmood, Israels Netta, Icelands Daoi Freyr, Swedens Cornelia Jakobs, Duncan Laurence from the Netherlands and Liverpools Sonia, who came second at Eurovision in 1993.

The acts will put their own spin on a number of classic hits by Liverpools most famous bands.

Speaking about the grand final, Ryder said: What an honour to be invited back to the Eurovision stage for a second time.

I cant wait to be back amongst the beautiful chaos of it all and to watch the incredible artists perform this time around, while bringing you a special performance of our own. Big love.

While Kalush Orchestra added: Weve been looking forward to performing in Liverpool ever since it was announced as host last year.

The city has a world-renowned musical heritage and were delighted to finally be able to announce what an honour it will be for us to be there.

While were sad that we couldnt bring the Eurovision Song Contest back to our home country, were really grateful to the UK for hosting this party on our behalf.

We will perform for everyone in Ukraine to remind us that better days and our countrys victory is ahead, as well as to show the world what Ukraine is fighting for.

The first semi-final kicks off on Tuesday, May 9, followed by the second semi-final on Thursday, May 11.

The grand final live show will bring the contest to an end on Saturday, May 13.
A Kildare man who died while trying to save another man has been hailed a hero.

James Nicholl Jnr, who was from Brownstown and also lived in Portarlington, is understood to have jumped into the River Liffey in Dublin in an attempt to save a man who was drowning on Friday, April 8.

Tragically, both he and the man who he was trying to save died during the incident.

A former member of the Defence Forces, Mr Nicholl was laid to rest in St Conleths Cemetery in Newbridge following funeral mass in St Brigids Church in The Curragh on Monday, April 17.

Independent TD and former member of the Defence Forces Army Ranger Wing, Cathal Berry praised the actions of Mr Nicholl. He described his death as a terrible tragedy and offered his deepest sympathy to the family.

He answered with courage at the very end and that is what he should be remembered for, said Deputy Berry.

The Defence Forces confirmed Mr Nicholl, who was in his 40s, had served in The Curragh between 2000 and 2002.

James deserves to be hailed a Hero for diving into the freezing cold river to save a random man's life that was drowning last Friday night in the Liffey in Dublin, he didn't hesitate to dive in and try help the poor soul in the water, he jumped straight in and in doing so he lost his life trying to save another humans life, Dublin based homeless charity A Lending Hand posted on their Facebook page alongside a picture of James.

He dived straight into the Liffey to save him, the current was too strong and the water was too cold, he got to the fella and tried to pull him up a few times and unfortunately the last attempt failed and poor Jimmy and this poor soul got dragged under the water and both of them died, the charity said.

Gardai said enquiries are ongoing following the incident and files are being prepared for the coroner.

At approximately 1:30am on Saturday 8th April 2023, Gardai received a report that one male had entered the water at Grattan Bridge followed by another male who was attempting to assist, they stated.

Despite an extensive search conducted by Gardai and Dublin Fire Brigade, the males could not be located, they said.

The bodies of two males (aged in their 20s and 40s) were recovered by Gardai from the River Liffey on the morning of Saturday 8th April 2023, Gardai said.

Mr Nicholl, of The Glen, Kilnacourt Wood, Portarlington and late of Brownstown, The Curragh, Co Kildare is survived by his parents Noreen and Jimmy, siblings Carol, Deborah, Darren and Margaret, brothers-in-law, sister-in-law, his partner Donna, nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles, extended family, relatives and friends.
A Kildare councillor has expressed his anger over the state of a derelict property in Newbridge.

Last year, Fianna Fail Senator Fiona O' Loughlin told the Leader that Rooske Lodge, which is located near the premises of Sarsfields GAA Club, will be added to the derelict sites register following consultations.

She said that locals had previously issued complaints regarding the property, which has been left vacant for some time.

Now, Social Democrats Cllr Chris Pender has criticised the state of Rooske Lodge.

He said: "(Over) the last number of months/weeks, the antisocial behaviour around Rooske Lodge has increased time and time again the it's heading further and further into dereliction, right to the point of being a health and safety risk and a risk to life as far as I'm concerned."

"Yes, it's been logged to go on the derelict sites register, and thanks to many public reps pushing for this, but the derelict sites register is clearly pointless if this is allowed to continue to deteriorate."

Cllr Pender claimed that even before the site was being added to the register, the owners boarded it up, but the boards were taken down and the place was subsequently 'burnt to a shell.'

Social Democrats Cllr Chris Pender. File Pic.

He continued: "The other day in an effort to get something done about Rooske Lodge, I cautiously decided to visit and take some pictures (in as safe a manner as possible) to show the council the seriousness of the situation and as any of you can see noone should be setting foot inside of it.

"I was informed that a young person was on the premises, injured themselves, and had to be taken to hospital.

"Young people need to take responsibility for their own actions and keep away from this building before someone is seriously hurt or even worse killed."

"Parents, you (must) talk to your kids and stress how dangerous this is, those beams could crack and come down on them, the glass the tiles all of these things could cause them serious injury not to mention the multiple dumped litter sites that could be harbouring god knows what."

Cllr Pender, who is also a former youth worker, added: "We've all been there as young people thinking were invincible, we've all done stupid things but this is now beyond that and could honestly result in the loss of life.

"I've been onto the council to liaise with the owners with urgency, it's gone beyond ridiculousness at this point that any property can end up like this."
406,000 worth of suspected heroin and cocaine has been seized following the search of a car on the Kildare-Dublin border.

A spokesperson for An Garda Siochana said that gardai seized approximately 406,000 of suspected heroin and cocaine during a number of searches in Finglas and Lucan in Dublin on Monday, April 17, 2023.

"These searches were part of an operation aimed at tackling and disrupting the criminal activities of a West Finglas based organised crime group," the spokesperson said: "The searches were conducted as part of Operation Tara by the Finglas Drugs Unit supported by the Finglas Detective Unit, Finglas Community Policing, Finglas Regular Unit and local Scenes of Crime Units.

"At approximately 2.55pm, a search of a vehicle was conducted on the Newcastle Road in Lucan, County Dublin.

"During the course of this search, approximately 84,000 of suspected cocaine and 60,000 of suspected heroin was located and seized."

The spokesperson also said that a woman in her 40s was arrested at the scene and taken to a Dublin Garda Station, where she was detained under Section 2 of the Criminal Justice (Drug Trafficking) Act 1996.

"Following this, further searches were conducted at three locations in Finglas, Dublin 11, where approximately 149,000 of suspected heroin and 113,000 of suspected cocaine were seized, in addition to 10,000 and 2,000 Sterling.

"Two men (aged in their 30s and 60s) were arrested and detained at Garda Stations in Dublin under the provisions of Section 2 of the Criminal Justice (Drug Trafficking) Act 1996 and Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984, respectively.

"The drugs seized totaling 406,000 (209,000 heroin and 197,000 cocaine) will now be sent to Forensic Science Ireland (FSI) for analysis."

The spokesperson added: "Investigations are ongoing."

COURT APPEARANCES

The man in his 30s has been charged and is expected to appear before Blanchardstown District Court this morning.

The man in his 60s was also charged and station bailed to appear at Blanchardstown District Court at 10.30am on Friday, May 12, 2023.

The woman in her 40s is still being detained at a Garda Station in Dublin.
A stretch of U.S. Highway 89 that runs through the Blackfeet Reservation will officially be known as the Chief Earl Old Person Memorial Highway.

Gov. Greg Gianforte on Tuesday signed Senate Bill 120, brought by Sen. Susan Webber, into law in a private ceremony that was closed to the press.

Webber in several hearings said she was asked by the 17,000 members of the Blackfeet Nation to bring the bill.

The bill directs the Department of Transportation to install two signs on the reservation  one where U.S. Highway 89 intersects with U.S. Highway 2 and one where Highway 89 intersects with Border Road. It also directs DOT to include the memorial highway on the next publication of the state map. The project is expected to cost $4,437.

Beloved chief, advocate, orator and elder, Old Person died in October 2021 at 92. Serving as a tribal councilman for 10 years and as chairman for 34, he was the longest-serving elected tribal leader in the country and one of the longest-serving elected officials in the world. Old Person became chief of the Blackfeet Nation in 1978 and delivered the first State of the Tribes address to the Montana Legislature in 1993.

While Old Person was revered statewide, the bill honoring him did not have an easy path through the Legislature.

The Senate Committee on Highways and Transportation in January tabled the bill, citing an unwritten rule that memorial highways can only be named for members of law enforcement who have died in the line of duty. Webber said she was unaware of such a rule and motioned to blast the legislation from the committee to the Senate floor for a full vote.

When the bill reached the Senate floor, Sen. Theresa Manzella, R-Hamilton, said she disapproved of the $4,437 price tag. The Legislature this session was in the process of deciding how to spend and save an estimated $2.4 billion surplus.

Other senators said the late chief should be honored in other ways, and some, including Sen. Barry Usher, R-Billings, said they agreed highway signs were only for those in law enforcement. That overlooked the Legislature's 2019 vote to establish a Jeannette Rankin Memorial Highway to honor the first woman elected to Congress.

Supporters of the bill argued Old Person deserved the recognition, and Sen. Jason Small, R-Busby, said naming the memorial highway for him was "not a big ask at all."

Despite the controversy, the bill cleared the Senate with 38 yes votes and later passed the House with 94 supporting votes.
There is a childcare crisis affecting young families across County Kildare.

Local politicians are complaining of a shortage of facilities and say that some premises are poorly located.

Cllr Bill Clear told a Kildare County Council meeting that in some instances creches have not been provided by developers given permission to build houses and apartments or are not delivered on time.

Others, he said, are located in the wrong place in these developments and in places where there are greater traffic volumes.

They're often buried there, he said, adding that in some instances the developers have grief to sell the creches once built.

Labour politician Angela Feeney said there is a crisis in the Maynooth area.

This is a huge pressure for women, some of whom cannot work because they cannot access childcare, Cllr Feeney added.

A move by Cllr Suzanne Doyle to get KCC involved in the solution ran aground.

Cllr Doyle wanted the to provide a childcare facility into an appropriate capital project to demonstrate potential best practice in delivery of childcare facilities.

She said this affordable childcare is a critical piece of social infrastructure in supporting

young families and employment participation.

Cllr Doyle also said planning applications for large employment opportunities should include provision of childcare facilities in appropriate locations, maybe offsite, and similarly for all planning applications for primary schools.

However KCC says that it can do no more than raise the issue with the Department of Education.

This is because the delivery of a childcare facility is not included in spending plans.

And while the proposal has merit the suggestion is outside KCCs remit and would need support and a coordinated approach from central government and a number of government departments - backed up by money.

Also, there are no provisions in legislation or in national/regional policy which require childcare facilities be provided with applications for schools or commercial developments.

Read more Kildare news
A senior fraud detective, who served in Kildare, has quit the force to battle cyber crime in the banking sector.

Det Insp Mel Smyth, who worked in the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau (GNEB), fronted anti-fraud campaigns and also appeared on Crimecall.

He confirmed he is leaving An Garda Siochana after nearly 35 years to take up a position with financial giant, Barclays Bank.

Smyth said: "I have finished my career battling economic crime: it is an ongoing and growing threat as international criminal organisations and individuals schooled by others on the 'dark net' and via social media, prey on our citizens."



He added: "I have done my part, I am happy to hand over the mantle to my colleagues in GNECB who are doing tremendous work, I wish them well. I will be continuing the work against cyber fraud in the private sector with Barclays Bank, more to come on that."



Before Smyth was appointed to the GNEB in 2019, he had served as an Inspector in Kildare town from 2014 to 2019. He also worked at Inspector rank in Clondalkin Garda Station and also had a stint as a sergeant in Tallaght.

Paying tribute to his garda colleagues, the retired officer also described modern day policing in Ireland as "difficult".

He said: "I have been fortunate to work with incredible people throughout my career both within An Garda Siochana and without, at home and abroad. I enjoyed every day of those years.

"We, policemen and policewomen play a unique role in society as we deal with the distress suffered by people impacted by all the various forms of criminality, violence, social unrest, domestic and sexual violence and other misfortunes that require police attention.

"We are not immune to stress even as we grow accustomed to difficult situations as our careers and lives progress. It is a difficult job! However, it is made possible by the support we give each other every day of our lives and the support we receive from our families, friends and beyond."
An Irish diplomat serving as EU ambassador to Sudan is in good shape after being attacked in his residence, the Tanaiste has said.

Micheal Martin gave an update on Aidan OHara, 58, after he was targeted during a violent robbery at the property as disorder flared in the country.

Mr Martin said the safety of Irish citizens in the African state was paramount as he appealed for an end to the violence.

He said the incident at the ambassadors residence in Khartoum was a gross violation of the Vienna Convention.

At least 185 people have reportedly been killed in violence linked to the power struggle between rival generals in Sudan.

A reported 24-hour ceasefire was due to go into effect on Tuesday.

Aidan is in good shape, thanks be to God, Mr Martin told reporters in Belfast.

We were very worried last evening when we heard of the robbery and the attack.

The situation is very, very fraught in Sudan, we appeal to both sides to cease all hostilities and to implement the framework that has been arrived at, and I would ask the protagonists to heed the words of the UN secretary-general (Antonio Guterres) in respect of ending the violence and engaging in talks.

We do have a number of Irish citizens in Sudan, many working with international organisations, Aidan is a UN ambassador in Sudan. Were keeping obviously a very close eye on their wellbeing.

Obviously, its very difficult to leave the country right now (with) the situation at the airport in Khartoum.

With our colleagues within the European Union and with the United Kingdom, well continue to monitor that and obviously, from our perspective, the safety of our citizens is paramount.
The local branch of the Green Party takes issue with comments made in an article in last weeks Leitrim Observer suggesting that the party has changed its mind around Liquified Natural Gas terminals.



Blaithin Gallagher, the chairperson of the SLNRSD North West Green Party constituency group, stated that: The issues raised by Love Leitrim in the article on April 12 notably that Minister Eamon Ryan and the government are considering a major U-turn in relation to Liquefied Natural Gas Terminals stems from an article in the Sunday Business Post which is misleading in its commentary about the governments plans.



Blaithin goes on to say; The Green Party is opposed to any actions which will prolong our dependence on fossil fuels or promote the use of fracked gas. Any measures proposed to improve energy security must conform to our legal obligations for emissions reduction.



An energy security review, to examine how Ireland can reduce its vulnerability to energy shortages, is currently being carried out. The Green Party knows that the best way to minimise our susceptibility to such shortages is to reduce our reliance on imports of fossil fuels from abroad and this includes gas.



As a result of the ongoing work of the current government, with the rapid rollout of solar and onshore wind, it is expected that over the next three years, this country will shift our electricity generation from using coal and gas to much more reliance on renewables. Significant progress is being made in this area.



The first large offshore wind farms should come online by 2028. By 2030 we will be running about 80% of our electricity system on renewable electricity and will be able to store excess renewable power through green hydrogen and the increased use of battery storage.



The review is likely to suggest key measures such as an additional ability to use secondary fuels in power stations, curbing increases in gas demand and accelerating the reduction in gas demand through more renewable gas and electricity. However, as we make the transition to renewable energy sources, we will continue to depend on gas in the short to medium term.

The energy security review is examining what potential backup storage options will be available in case of a gas supply disruption from the UK.



However, it is essential to understand that any measures suggested to enhance energy security must align with our legally-binding climate targets, refrain from committing us to long-term fossil fuel infrastructure, and avoid promoting the usage of fracked gas. Any recommendations must also be economically viable and make financial sense.



The Green Party Constituency Group's Energy spokesperson Johnny Gogan and former chair of Love Leitrim welcomed the re-stating of the party's opposition to fracking.



A commercial facility would only open the door to the importation of fracked gas, most likely from badly affected communities in the United States. In addition, it would lead, almost certainly, to Ireland becoming an import/export hub for fracked gas into the British and European energy market.



Blaithin Gallagher further added: Minister Eamon Ryan and the Green Party do not believe that a commercial LNG facility would satisfy these criteria as it would promote and expand our use of gas and increase our dependence on gas imports. This would make us more vulnerable than before.



Moreover, by the time a long-term commercial facility is built, Ireland's gas consumption is expected to have declined significantly. Therefore, such a facility would not make sense from either a climate or economic perspective.
The Government has been accused of being out of its depth and of living in very dangerous type of denial about the scale of Irelands housing crisis during a fiery Dail exchange.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar gave a staunch response of his partys track record on social housing delivery, claiming that it had doubled during his last tenure as Irish premier.

He also claimed that Sinn Feins record on social housing in Northern Ireland and Labours in the housing portfolio was less than that delivered by his Government.

Labour leader Ivana Bacik said he had reached a new low in ridiculous political point-scoring, accusing the Fine Gael leader of being smug.

Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald called on the Irish government to reinstate the eviction ban and extend it until the end of January while further supports are put in place.

Commenting on Government claims that the measures introduced would support people, she said: You are clearly in a state of denial and a very, very dangerous type of denial.

Mr Varadkar, in turn, accused Sinn Fein of gaslighting young people, and claimed that Labour was suffering from a crisis of confidence.

He said that Sinn Feins motion scheduled for Tuesday, that calls on the Governments Help-to-Buy scheme and First Home scheme to be ended, would impact on homeownership.

Youve gaslighted young people and first-time buyers into thinking that youre on their side. You are not, you will take away the schemes that are working, he said.

The Sinn Fein motion accuses both schemes of pushing up house prices and said they should be scrapped and the funding diverted in favour of delivering more affordable homes instead.

Ms McDonald told TDs: Your so-called safety nets dont make a lick of difference to people facing eviction in the here and now. And you have no real plan to stop people losing the roof over their heads.

Mr Varadkar claimed that figures published by the Department of Housing on Monday, which confirmed that the Government had missed its 2022 target for newly-built social homes, showed progress had been achieved.

20,000 households provided with social housing of some form last year, their housing needs being met. 10,000 homes added to the whole social housing stock, of which about 7,500 were new builds.

Compare that, for example, with the last year in which there was a Sinn Fein housing minister in Northern Ireland  build less than 2,000 new social houses.

Thats a fact, and one that I dont think you can get away from, he said.

Ms McDonald responded that the figures published on Monday, reflect the fact that you missed your target on affordable housing by almost 60% last year.

Now if you count that as achievement, or if you as Taoiseach regard that as an acceptable level of performance, well then God help us all is all I can say, she said.

In response to questions from Ms Bacik, Mr Varadkar said: How many social homes were built the last time there was a Labour minister for housing?

When Labour TD Aodhan ORiordain interrupted to accuse the Taoiseach of point scoring, Mr Varadkar responded to be accused of point-scoring by deputy ORiordain is  anyway, look.

He continued: The last time there was a Labour minister in housing  and yes, I was at the Cabinet table with them  400 new social homes were built in this country. By the time (former housing minister and Fine Gael TD) Eoghan Murphy had finished in his role, we were up to around 5,000.

The amount of social housing built in the State doubled the last time I was Taoiseach, and now under Darragh OBrien, were building more social housing than any year in decades and were going to build more again.

Ms Bacik: Youve reached a new low, that is a ridiculous attempt (of) political point scoring in the face of a brutal housing crisis  and its all very well smirking and being smug and self congratulatory.

Thats not going to help the families approaching me, approaching public representatives from Government parties and opposition parties, who have nowhere to tell people to go because there are no homes available in our communities, no affordable homes, no homes to rent, no homes for sale.

Its a testament to the failed policies of Fianna Fail and Fine Gael and your overreliance on a private sector and on a market that has patently failed to deliver the homes that are needed, she said.

Mr Varadkar responded: Deputy, you simply cant have it both ways. You cant challenge me, my party and my coalition colleagues on our record and then lose the rag when somebody asks about yours.

If youre willing to criticise somebody elses record, you have to at least be able to defend your own and youre not willing to do that. And I think thats very, very disappointing, but it is part of Labours crisis of confidence  youve lost confidence in yourselves.
Aerial view of the Olkiluoto nuclear power plant construction, Finland, March 10, 2021. TAPANI KARJANLAHTI / AFP

On the weekend of April 15-16, Germany shut down its last three nuclear reactors still in operation, while further north in Europe, Finland finally connected its Olkiluoto nuclear reactor to the grid. Together with its two smaller siblings on the same site, this reactor will supply nearly 30% of the country's electricity needs.

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Despite the Russian gas crisis, which nearly shut down German industry and forced the environmentalists in the German political coalition to agree to accelerate coal production, the country has held fast to its plan. The exit from nuclear power is taking precedence over the climate. At least until 2038, Europe's most energy-intensive country will continue to burn coal, despite the worldwide consensus on the urgent need to phase it out.

Polls and even activist Greta Thunberg argued for an extension of the operation of nuclear power plants, at least during the energy transition. But nothing has been done. "The founding myth of the Greens triumphs over all reason," Friedrich Merz, leader of the conservative CDU, tweeted angrily on Saturday.

Abandoned research

In fairness, the Finnish example is hardly encouraging. They broke ground on the site in the last century (1992), and the project was marred by pitfalls and disputes. Costs exploded and the endless disputes finally took down Areva, one of the flagships of the French nuclear industry. A disastrous outcome that leaves you wondering about the viability of a technology that is the cornerstone of the French energy economy.

Because the Finnish plant is a French technology. The one that was supposed to fly the flag of our energy sovereignty  and collapsed like a house of cards the moment it was put to the test by the shutoff of Russian gas deliveries. Not only was Olkiluoto's little brother in Normandy, the reactor at Flamanville (Manche), not ready, but its "ancestors" failed at the worst possible moment.

This debacle has been closely scrutinized by the French Parliament. It reveals a culpable failure by successive governments, incapable of thinking in the long term and of advancing beyond political posturing. Even research on the reactors of the future  safer and without waste, such as the Astrid program  has been abandoned. Meanwhile, the abundance of innovative companies around the world working on small reactors shows that the age of colossal projects is behind us, in Normandy as in Finland, which leaves the risk that innovation may well pass France by.

Philippe Escande Translation of an original article published in French on lemonde.fr; the publisher may only be liable for the French version.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's chief of staff Katie Telford before her hearing before a parliamentary committee in Ottawa on April 14, 2023. BLAIR GABLE / REUTERS

The subject has been at the forefront of Canadian politics for several months. On Friday, April 14, members of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs  a parliamentary committee tasked with working on the issue  questioned Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's chief of staff, Katie Telford (45) about the allegations of Chinese interference in Canada's democratic process.

Since November, the Canadian television network Global Television Network and the English-language daily Globe and Mail have been reporting that Canada's intelligence and security service suspects Beijing of having interfered in the last federal election: in 2019, by creating a network of financing that favored 11 candidates considered "Chinese-compatible" and in 2021, by trying to ensure a victory for the Liberal Party of the outgoing prime minister, deemed less damaging to its interests than a Conservative government.

'Heavy strategic threat'

Since then, the Conservative Party has continued to hold the government accountable for the information it had and the measures it took to protect itself from such foreign intrusion. Not without difficulty, it finally obtained the hearing of Justin Trudeau's closest advisor  at his side since his victory in 2015  hoping to demonstrate at best the inertia, at worst the complacency of the prime minister in this matter, considered by the Canadian Security Intelligence Service as "the most serious strategic threat to Canada's national security."

But the "rocket fire" strategy of short, incisive questions asked to Katie Telford by Conservative and Bloc Quebecois MPs did not get to the bottom of it. Trudeau's chief of staff revealed as little as possible, on the grounds of national security requirements: "these issues are extremely sensitive, and there are legal limits to what I can say in public." Questions from elected officials elicited only terse comments, and on several occasions Katie Telford asserted: "The 2019 and 2021 elections were conducted fairly and freely."

Her evasive answers did not convince the opposition. "You were unable to give us simple answers to simple questions. But insofar as you confirmed that the prime minister knew everything, we can assume that he knew and deliberately chose to ignore the warnings given by our intelligence service," concluded Conservative MP Rachael Thomas. The Liberal MPs denounced a "conspiracy theory" supported by the Conservatives, which "nothing in Katie Telford's testimony corroborated."

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A suspected Palestinian gunman wounded two Israeli men near a Jewish site in annexed east Jerusalem on Tuesday, April 18, Israeli authorities said, with security forces conducting a manhunt for the perpetrator.

The shooting comes amid a period of deadly attacks and military raids across the occupied West Bank, along with killings in Israel.

Israeli police announced a suspected "shooting terror attack" in the Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood of east Jerusalem targeting two motorists, who according to medics were rushed to hospital.

"Police officers are at the scene conducting searches for the suspect who fled," the force said in a statement.

Israeli security forces closed off streets in the neighborhood, where an Agence France-Presse (AFP) journalist saw officers entering a Palestinian home, with a drone and helicopter as well as police dogs aiding the search.

Officers enforcing the shutdown prevented cars and people from moving into the center of the neighborhood, as heavily armed forces combed the area.

Police announced they had found the perpetrator's gun near the scene of the attack, which took place near the tomb of Simeon the Just  Shimon Hatzadik in Hebrew  a site frequented by religious Jews.

The weapon was identified as a Carlo makeshift submachine gun, which Palestinians manufacture in the West Bank. Hadassah Hospital said they received a 48-year-old gunshot victim lightly wounded, and Shaare Zedek medical center said it was treating a man in his 50s in moderate condition.

Rising death toll

The search was punctuated by the 10:00 am (local time) two-minute siren marking Israel's Holocaust Remembrance Day, honoring more than 6 million Jews killed by the Nazis during World War II.

Jerusalem mayor Moshe Lion, speaking at a city hall ceremony, said one of the Holocaust's main lessons was "to never be helpless in the face of those seeking to harm us."

Later in the morning, most of the security forces had left Sheikh Jarrah, with roads reopened and traffic flowing as normal, the AFP journalist said.

Sheikh Jarrah was the focal point of protests against the eviction of Palestinian residents by Israeli settler organizations in the build up to and during the May 2021 war between Israel and Gaza militants.

It is also the site of a weekly Israeli demonstration against the occupation of the Palestinian territories.

The attack took place a day after a Palestinian woman stabbed and moderately wounded an Israeli man at the Gush Etzion junction in the southern West Bank. The woman was shot by security forces and taken to hospital in moderate condition.

The conflict has this year claimed the lives of at least 96 Palestinians, 19 Israelis, one Ukrainian and one Italian, according to an AFP count based on Israeli and Palestinian official sources.

These figures include, on the Palestinian side, combatants and civilians, including minors, and on the Israeli side, mostly civilians, including minors, and three members of the Arab minority.

Le Monde with AFP
A right-to-know bill that was shelved two weeks ago has emerged and was roundly supported Monday by the state House.

Senate Bill 232 establishes deadlines for state agencies to return public information requests. It cleared the Senate on a unanimous 50-0 vote in early March, but was tabled in the House State Administration Committee a month later.

SB 232  sponsored by Sen. Janet Ellis, D-Helena  would require a turnaround of five days to acknowledge the request, another five days for simple, single-page requests, 90 days for a more complex request and another 90 days if the agency determines the original window of time "is not feasible."

The only legislator to speak when House State Administration Committee tabled the bill was Rep. Linda Reksten, R-Polson, who had some trepidation that the deadlines in the bill would create more litigation against the state.

On Friday, Rep. Tyson Running Wolf, D-Browning, was successful in arguing the bill should have a full hearing on the House floor rather than die in committee.

"This isnt a one-sided Republican-Democrat issue, we all try to get that information," he said. "I think this deadline is well-needed, it's good government accountability to the citizens and it's about the citizens of Montana receiving important information in documents that they are entitled to under the constitution in a timeframe that is useful to them and, for me, for government to be effective to the people."

"I think we've all had constituents or even ourselves have been frustrated sometimes trying to get information," Rep. Gary Parry, R-Colstrip, said during the hearing.

The committee flipped from 17-1 to table the bill on April 4 to 15-3 to advance it on Friday's vote. The House on Tuesday passed SB 232 with a 96-2 vote.

Monday, on the House floor, there was hardly debate about the bill's merits. Rep. Bill Mercer, R-Billings, carried SB 232 in the House and quickly dispatched the earlier concerns.

"I've heard as a criticism that this will increase litigation, I'll say I don't think thats true," Mercer said, noting citizens were already allowed to sue the state for failing to respond to records requests.

After the vote, Reksten, who had spoken up in committee about the litigation concern, said she had come to terms with the deadlines. Another lawmaker told the Montana State News Bureau the bill sponsor, Ellis, had spoken with them directly to mitigate those concerns, as well.

"In committee we felt they (the deadlines) were reasonable," Reksten said. "I do think agencies need to respond to FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) requests."

The bill now goes to the Governor's Office to be signed into law or rejected.
This handout picture released by the Brazilian Presidency shows Chinese President Xi Jinping (L) and Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva shaking hands during a welcome ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on April 14, 2023. RICARDO STUCKERT / AFP

The White House on Monday, April 18, sharply criticized Brazil after President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said on a trip to China that the United States is encouraging war in Ukraine. "In this case, Brazil is parroting Russian and Chinese propaganda without at all looking at the facts," National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters.

Lula said Saturday during a visit to Beijing, where he met Chinese leader Xi Jinping, that "the United States needs to stop encouraging war and start talking about peace. The European Union needs to start talking about peace."

This echoed a line frequently used by Moscow and Beijing, which blame the West for the war, which began in February 2022 when Russian forces poured into Ukraine in an attempt to overthrow the democratically elected government and annex swaths of the pro-Western country.

Brazil vehemently rejected the US accusations. Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira said of Kirby, "I don't know how or why he reached that conclusion but I do not agree at all."

Brazil has not joined Western nations in imposing sanctions on Russia and has refused requests to supply ammunition to Ukraine. On Monday, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said in Brazil, at the start of a Latin America tour, that Russia is "grateful to our Brazilian friends for their clear understanding of the genesis of the situation (in Ukraine)."

Veteran leftist Lula is keen to bolster Brazil's bid to be a non-aligned peacemaker. But Kirby said Lula's message on the war was "deeply problematic." Washington doesn't have "any objection to any country that wants to try to bring an end to the war," he said.

"Obviously we want the war to end," Kirby said. "That could happen right now, today, if Mr (Russian President Vladimir) Putin would stop attacking Ukraine and pull its troops out." "The most recent comments by Brazil that Ukraine should consider formally ceding Crimea as a peace concession is simply misguided, especially for a country like Brazil that has voted to uphold the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity (at the UN)."

Le Monde with AFP
A CONVICTED killer who acted as a getaway driver in a murder that sparked a ten-year gangland feud in Limerick 23 years ago has been jailed for five years after "accidentally" firing a shotgun that injured his friend.

Paul Coffey, who has 100 previous convictions, pleaded guilty last Month to the reckless discharge of a firearm and to possession of a firearm in circumstances suggesting he did not have it for a lawful purpose.

At the Central Criminal Court this Tuesday, Mr Justice Paul Burns sentenced Coffey to six years in prison with the final 12 months suspended for three years in respect of the possession charge. The judge sentenced Coffey to three years for the reckless discharge offence, with that sentence to run concurrently.

On his release from prison, Coffey will be required to work with the probation services and to keep the peace.

The judge had set the headline sentence at nine years but reduced that having considered mitigating factors including Coffey's guilty plea.

The judge also noted that at the time of the offence Coffey (pictured below in 2004) was homeless and using crack cocaine and heroin but is now drug-free in prison.

Coffey's counsel had asked the court to suspend part of any sentence to incentivise Coffey's continued rehabilitation. The sentences were backdated to August 2021 when he first went into custody.



Coffey, aged 46, of Lord Edward Street, Limerick city, was initially charged with attempting to murder Alan Murphy at Long Pavement, Watch House Cross, Limerick on June 11 2020.

The Director of Public Prosecutions later agreed to drop the attempted murder charge and accepted a plea of guilty to discharging a firearm, being reckless as to whether any person would be injured, at Long Pavement on June 11 2020.

Coffey also pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm in such circumstances as to give rise to a reasonable inference that he did not have it in his possession for a lawful purpose on the same occasion.

At a sentencing hearing last month Sergeant Dave Barry told the court that Coffey was linked to the shooting by CCTV footage and firearms residue evidence. Following the shooting, Mr Murphy was able to drive into Limerick city where he stopped passersby who then alerted the emergency services. He was treated at Limerick University Hospital for superficial injuries to his abdomen.

Gardai arrested Coffey and interviewed him 17 times. In interview, Coffey said he was a friend of Mr Murphy's and denied any involvement. In his final interview gardai asked him to account for his presence at the scene of the shooting but he remained silent.

Sgt Barry said Coffey's 100 previous convictions included offences for the misuse of drugs and for road traffic offences. His most serious offence was from 2003 when he was convicted of manslaughter for the killing of Eddie Ryan Snr who was shot dead while having a drink with his son in the Moose Bar in Limerick in 2000.

Coffey was the getaway driver, the sergeant said, and after the shooting dropped the two gunmen to a house and burned out the car in a deserted laneway.

He was sentenced to 15 years with the final seven years suspended for that offence.

Sgt Barry agreed that the killing was a "gangland related murder" and is regarded as having begun a feud between rival families in Limerick that lasted ten years.

The sergeant agreed with Michael Bowman SC, for the defence, that Coffey told gardai that on the day of the (2020) shooting, Mr Murphy was facilitating Coffey by driving him to different locations to buy drugs. He also said that Mr Murphy would often give Coffey money to buy drugs and at the time Coffey was addicted to heroin and crack cocaine.

Coffey said he had been friends with Mr Murphy for a long time and Mr Murphy, who was also questioned by gardai, confirmed that they had been friends since childhood. Mr Murphy also told gardai that he knew Coffey had a drug habit and would help him from time to time to "get a fix".

Mr Murphy also told gardai that on the day he was shot, he was trying to contact a person who owed him 30,000 but that person not responding to his texts or calls.

The firearm was in Mr Murphy's car, Mr Bowman said, and Coffey was "summoned to attend and remove the firearm and it went off".

The firing, Mr Bowman said, was "accidental".

Sgt Barry agreed that Coffey is now in "much better condition" than he was in 2020 when his lifestyle was "truly chaotic" and he was sleeping wherever he could find a bed and living "hand to mouth in terms of his drug use". The sergeant also agreed that he was not aware of any animus between Coffey and Mr Murphy.

In his submissions to the court, Mr Bowman said that his client had been involved in drug treatment in 2019 but during the covid lockdowns he "slipped back into drug addiction".

Since his arrest, Mr Bowman said Coffey, who has been in custody since 2021, is an enhanced prisoner on a drug-free landing and is working within the prison. He said that on the day of the shooting, Mr Murphy had been intending to meet one of the men with whom he had a "difficulty" but that man did not show.

Mr Coffey, counsel said, went to the car driven by Mr Murphy having been asked to remove the firearm which then discharged as he attempted to remove it.
TWO PROMINENT Limerick academics are leading the way into the future as they led a discussion on the implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in school.

Professor Stephen Kinsella and J.J Collins from the University of Limerick (UL) examined the potential uses of AI technology in schools, following the popularity of tools such as ChatGPT for students to get quick solutions to their academic conundrums.

An online webinar which took place on Tuesday, April 18 saw both UL professors weigh up the possible implications which come with AIs personalised learning, instant feedback techniques - as well as the risks of misuse and plagiarism.

AI technology is defined as machine or robotic intelligence which mimics human problem solving techniques and decision making capabilities.

The free, online AI tools now available, such as ChatGPT, are powerful in that they are instant problem solvers and are used globally by millions to give quick solutions to most types of queries - general, specific or even detailed, essay length.

Through this webinar, we are actively engaging with our schools and colleges to raise their awareness about this new technology, Chairperson of ETBI Digital Strategy Group and Director of Schools in Limerick & Clare ETB, Donncha OTreasaigh, said.

To equip schools with the expert knowledge and advice that Professor Stephen Kinsella and our other speakers bring to this important conversation was the end goal of the webinar, Mr OTreasaigh added.

Over 500 Education & Training Board Ireland (ETBI) principals, deputy principals and teachers were in attendance, as well as staff members from the 16 ETBs across Ireland.
LIMERICK horse trainer Charles Byrnes is to give behind the scene access to the inner sanctum after signing up to a new programme with Horse Racing Ireland Ownership.

Byrnes is among a number of top class trainers that will give public access to their training yards from May to September this year and are free to attend.

Last year 17 trainers hosted open mornings with over 3000 people visiting yards around the country. So far, 19 trainers from 11 different counties from Cork to Tyrone have signed up to host open mornings for 2023.

Those who wish to attend are asked to register their interest in advance by clicking here.



The open mornings will include a tour of their chosen yard and its facilities, watch the racehorses on the gallop, and meet with the trainer and their team.

Visitors will be welcomed to yards the length and breath of the country and can visit trainers such as Gordon Elliott, Shark Hanlon, Edward OGrady, Tracey Collins and Michael Halford, Andy Oliver, Ross OSullivan to name a few.

Open mornings kick start in May starting with Charles Byrnes in Rathkeale on May 6. That is followed by Jack Davison in Dunboyne, Meath on May 13 and Michael Grassick on the Curragh in Kildare on May 27.



Amber OGrady, HRI Ownership Manager, commented: "We are looking forward to welcoming owners and racing fans to yards across the country over the coming months. We were delighted with the success of the 2022 open mornings.

"The post event survey saw 78% of visitors saying they were interested in ownership and 56% of trainers signed a new owner off the back of an open morning.

"It is a wonderful opportunity for trainers to showcase their facilities and horses. It also gives the public a chance to meet trainers in a relaxed environment and get all the information they need before committing to ownership."
THE BOARD of Kerry Co-op has appointed Limerick's Jim Woulfe, the former CEO of Dairygold, to work as an adviser.

Mr Woulfe, from Ardagh, will work with the board to examine the structure of Kerry Co-op as it develops its strategy, the co-op revealed in a statement.

Mr Woulfe has worked in the Irish dairy industry for over 40 years in various senior management roles, including 12 years as Dairygold's chief executive. He left that position at the end of 2021.

Kerry Co-op chairman Denis Carroll said the co-op is at an important juncture in its history.

Jim's experience and knowledge will support the board as we develop our plan for the long-term future of the society, he said.

Mr Carroll said the Kerry Co-op board will this year undertake a strategic review of a number of priorities.

This involves examining what is possible within the co-ops shareholding structure for the benefit of all members in line with the societys rule book and examining any rule changes that may be required.

In addition, it will enable us to bring a plan to our members that outlines our long-term strategy for Kerry Co-op.

Any plans will be developed to best suit the complexity of issues, with the goal of benefitting all members in the long-term.

We will report on progress as appropriate when there is news or developments to share, said Mr Carroll.
Irish national broadcaster RTE has appointed Kevin Bakhurst as its next Director General following an extensive and competitive recruitment process.

He will replace Dee Forbes in the role when her term comes to an end on July 11 this year.

Mr Bakhurst was previously managing director of news and current affairs at RTE and deputy Director General from September 2012 to October 2016.

He was also a member of the RTE Executive throughout this period and served as acting Director General for a six-month period.

Commenting on his appointment, Mr Bakhurst said: I am honoured and delighted to take up the role of Director General.

RTE plays a central role in Irish life and has brilliant people dedicated to delivering great and trusted content for audiences.

RTE faces huge challenges and global competition, and I am confident we can deliver the ambitious change needed to remain valued and relevant to our audiences. Im looking forward to getting started.

Prior to re-joining RTE, Mr Bakhurst was group director, broadcasting and online at Ofcom, where he was a member of the UK regulators board.

RTE Appoints Kevin Bakhurst as Next Director General.https://t.co/IIcGEpQufE pic.twitter.com/c8yxJoAlFe  RTE (@rte) April 18, 2023

RTE said his responsibilities there included setting broadcast strategy and policy for UK broadcasting regulation, creating and implementing the framework for regulating the BBC, enforcing and developing editorial standards for UK broadcasters and leading work on the future of UK Public Service Broadcasting which has led directly to new government legislation.

It said Mr Bakhurst has led Ofcoms work on the UKs new Online Safety Policy and built a team of around 350 to deliver it, including a new data and technology team, and in the process shaping the overall transformation of Ofcom to take on the new duties.

Between 2006 and 2012, he held a range of senior editorial positions at the BBC, including Controller, BBC News Channel and Deputy Head, BBC Newsroom from 2005. He was also a member of the BBCs London 2012 Olympics Steering Committee.

RTE said Mr Bakhurst will be required to take the organisation forward in a rapidly evolving media landscape, while ensuring RTEs valued place in public life in Ireland.

Commenting on the appointment, RTE chair Siun Ni Raghallaigh said: Im delighted to welcome todays announcement of the appointment of Kevin Bakhurst as the new Director General of RTE.

The appointment follows a competitive recruitment process, with Kevin as the unanimous choice of the RTE Board.

Kevin brings an exceptional breadth of industry experience, great leadership skills and a passionate commitment to the development of public service broadcasting in all its forms.

Kevins appointment comes at time of opportunity and change for RTE.

With my fellow board members, I look forward to working with Kevin in our shared commitment to a thriving and financially sustainable RTE.
The US ambassador to the UK has said economic progress in Northern Ireland depends on political stability.

Jane Hartley was speaking at the Agreement 25 conference at Queens University Belfast.

Ms Harley said progress needed to be made and encouraged politicians to recapture the spirit of the Good Friday Agreement.

The Belfast Good Friday remains a stunning achievement to this day and the foundation of Northern Irelands progress in the years since, she said.

But our task today is not to look backward, our task is to look forward and determine how to make progress where progress still needs to be made.

She added: Let us dedicate ourselves to recapturing its spirit, its spirit of renewal, its spirit of compromise, the focus on creating more opportunity for the next generation.

The Stormont Assembly and Executive are currently not operating as part of a DUP protest against post-Brexit trading arrangements.

During his visit to Belfast last week, US president Joe Biden insisted a stable devolved government could deliver an economic windfall for the region.

Ms Hartley said she wanted to build on the US economic investment in Northern Ireland.

As many of you know the United States is the single largest source of foreign direct investment into Northern Ireland, she said.

My feeling is, lets build on that, lets show the world what Northern Ireland has to offer.

Ms Hartley also stated that the increased economic prosperity is dependent on political stability and the Windsor Framework is the route to achieve this.

We need that spirit of renewal right now, we need to get back to governing and Northern Ireland needs to get back to governing and growing, because economic progress depends on political stability, she said.

And in my view the Windsor Framework gives everyone a road map towards a more prosperous future.

So the task is for all parties to walk a few more brave steps and get back to the hard work of government.

Because democracy, however messy, however imperfect, remains the best way for Northern Ireland to decide its own destiny.

Representatives from the five biggest parties in Northern Ireland met on a panel at the conference on Tuesday to discuss issues surrounding the Northern Ireland assembly and the long-term future of the region.

I think they took some brave steps in that panel and I hope we can see scenes like that very soon happening again, discussions, conversations at Stormont, she said.

Ms Hartley concluded her speech by reiterating the optimism shared by Mr Biden during his four-day visit to the island of Ireland.

America believes in Northern Ireland, she said.

We believe in you, we are committed to your progress, we have faith in the peace that you have built and we believe there is no turning back.
Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) recently introduced a new platform for its Bangalore customers - Wheels on Web. It is an online retail sales platform that offers a seamless virtual experience to the customers by enabling them to book, purchase and get delivery of their preferred Toyota models at the comfort of their home.

Announcing the new platform via a press release, the company said that the "Wheels on Web" is a Business to Customer (B2C) platform that reflects the companys core commitment to enhance customer experience in its digital space, enabling hassle-free car buying with innovative features and services.

Along with the ability to book, buy and enjoy the vehicle delivery at the comfort of their home, the platform provides digital viewing of the car exteriors, interiors, colour, and variants. Toyota customers can select a host of value-added services  Accessories, Service Packages and Extended Warranty via the platform.

Toyotas Wheels on Web also enables customers to trade-off his/her existing car. They can also choose easy and multiple finance options through selected financial institutions. In addition, they can pay the booking amount/full payment or downpayment online.

Toyota customers will receive auto communication via WhatsApp and e-mail at every stage from booking to delivery. Further, they can also check the status of booking details via individual login or account access.

Atul Sood, Vice President, Sales and Strategic Marketing, Toyota Kirloskar Motor said "In line with our core philosophy of Customer First, we are continuously striving to deliver ever-better services to the consumers. We believe that our newly launched WOW (Wheels on Web), online retail platform, will revolutionize the car buying experience in India"

"Our objective here is to provide value-added services to enable convenient car purchasing processes, facilitating end-to-end transaction including secured online payments as a one-stop-shop. With the availability of our varied models on this platform, we are confident of meeting the growing needs of the consumers at large," he further added.
A bill that aims to remedy a failing law enforcement agreement in Lake County passed a second reading in the Senate on Tuesday. Thirty-seven senators voted in support of it.

House Bill 479 appropriates $2.5 million to the Department of Justice each year in the biennium to provide money to Lake County to offset costs for law enforcement activities on the reservation. It would take effect in July.

The bill, sponsored by Joe Read, R-Ronan, comes in response to Public Law 280, which grants certain states criminal jurisdiction over some reservations. Since 1963, per an agreement between the state and tribes, Lake County law enforcement has collaborated with the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes under the law.

Under Public Law 280, felonies committed by tribal members on the Flathead Reservation are handled by local county law enforcement, rather than by the Bureau of Indian Affairs or FBI. And since the 1990s, the CSKT has been prosecuting misdemeanor crimes committed by tribal members on the reservation  helping shoulder the burden of the countys jurisdictional responsibility.

But Lake County has alleged for years that it has not been reimbursed by the state for assuming this job. County Commissioner Gale Decker said in a committee hearing last week that funding Public Law 280 is the largest single expenditure in Lake Countys budget.

He added that without support, the county cannot survive financially.

Lake County commissioners in January voted to withdraw from Public Law 280, and their decision will take effect in May. Commissioners said they wanted to give lawmakers time to pass legislation that would reimburse the county.

If the Legislature does not approve a reimbursement deal and Lake County officially withdraws from the agreement this spring, the state could then assume criminal jurisdiction over the Flathead Reservation. To do so, the state would likely need to provide a police force, detention center and court facilities, among other things. Sen. Greg Hertz, R-Polson, estimated these startup costs would cost the state more than $100 million. The tribes have not officially offered a stance on the issue.

Hertz urged senators on Tuesday to support the bill.

What we dont want to see is Lake County walking away from this, he said. That is their intent. They can no longer afford it.

Sen. Andrea Olsen, D-Missoula, proposed an amendment that struck several clauses and stated that Lake County was to use the money to bring jail living conditions within constitutional standards.

Hertz urged senators to oppose the amendment, which ultimately did not pass.

Sen. Shane Morigeau, D-Missoula and a member of the CSKT, said Native Americans are disproportionately incarcerated. He added he wants the county to address recidivism, mental health and addiction.

Sen. Hertz has assured me that theyre committed to that, Morigeau said, adding that he would support the bill.
NEW DELHI : Volkswagen AGs Indian arm is planning to electrify 30% of its passenger vehicle portfolio by 2030, and will build a dedicated electric vehicle platform to manufacture them locally, the companys brand director Ashish Gupta said in an interview.

Volkswagen India will be assembling its maiden electric car for India, the ID.4, at its Aurangabad plant for a potential 2024 launch, he added. On Tuesday, the company displayed the ID.4 GTX for the first time at its annual brand event in Kochi.

The brand carries out parts and components assembly", which is a version of a completely-knocked-down assembly, for the Tiguan, its sport utility vehicle, the same model it will be using for the ID.4.

ID.4, Volkswagens top-selling electric car globally, will initially be assembled in India, before it localizes a ground-up electric vehicle (EV) platform to achieve scale and competitive pricing. This could entail an investment of 1 billion, in line with its investment for Skoda Auto Volkswagen India 2.0 project, said Gupta, although the group hasnt made a formal announcement about the investment yet.

Volkswagens announcement comes at a time when homegrown Tata Motors and Mahindra and Mahindra are fast-tracking EV adoption strategies to garner an early-mover advantage in the electric passenger vehicle segment in India by electrifying their existing internal combustion-engine powertrains.

However, while some other original equipment manufacturers estimate EV penetration for private cars at 15%, Volkswagen is more bullish , estimating 25-30% electrification by 2030.

ID.4 is a global product. The only way to get volumes is by local manufacturing of electric cars. Electrification will come in phases, and it is not possible to suddenly achieve 30% of the market, because the ecosystem and supply base is not yet ready. Nearly 50% of the cost of an electric car is in terms of the battery cost, and until and unless mass localization of battery manufacturing happens in India, none of the OEMs will be able to do mass electrification. The path to mass electrification is to go in with global premium products. And thats where we will slot the ID.4," he said. When we bring our own electric car to India, it will definitely be a ground-up new product."

Volkswagen has been testing the ID.4 in India since 2022, planning for a 2023 launch. However, testing and validating the product for Indias unique terrain and climate conditions is a process the brand was not willing to rush into, Gupta said. The drivetrain, suspension and software, is a time-consuming and investment-heavy process and is under discussion at the moment."

Volkswagen sold nearly 41,000 cars in India in 2022, falling short by 25% of its planned production target due to a shortage of specialized semiconductor chips.

While chip availability has been improving, a shortage of airbag sensors may impact production for VW in this quarter, he said.

The company is banking on significant industry-beating growth as it foresees normal" production output in 2023, with volumes buoyed by its new sedan Virtus, Gupta added.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Alisha Sachdev Alisha Sachdev is an assistant editor with Mint based in Delhi. She reports on the auto and mobility sector, with a special focus on emerging clean mobility technologies. She also focusses on developing multimedia properties for Mint and currently hosts the 'In A Minute' series and the Mint Primer podcast. Previously, she has worked with CNBC-TV18 and NDTV. Read more from this author
Mumbai: India could become one of Apple Inc.s biggest markets one day, the iPhone makers chief executive said in Mumbai, on a day over a thousand people, many of them from across the country, poured into its first India store.

Over time, India will be one of Apples largest markets. I think it has that kind of potential," CEO Tim Cook said in a conversation with Mint after inaugurating the store at the swanky Jio World Drive mall in Mumbais Bandra Kurla Complex. A second Apple Store opens in Delhis Select CityWalk mall on Thursday.

Weve brought manufacturing, an accelerator for developers, and we brought different functions within Apple here. So were all in," Cook said at the festive event attended by actor Madhuri Dixit, musician A.R. Rahman, and various other celebrities.

View Full Image Graphic: Mint

The opening of its first retail stores also marks Apples 25th year in the country, which it completed last week. Apple Stores are an integral part of the companys ecosystem approach to selling products. Globally, these stores host sessions on Apple products and services and serve as service centres. The Mumbai store has over 100 staffers who speak more than 20 languages, the company said earlier.

We view India as great from a number of points of view. I think the skills here are unique, the vibrancy of the people and the culture, the dynamism of the market, the feeling that anything is possibleall of these things bode well for India in future, and we want to be a part of it. But not just from a market point of view, but allfrom a skillset point of view, helping artists hereI cant stress this enough, were all in," he added.

Cook said he expects Indias journey to be extraordinary", which cannot be compared with other markets. It will be a unique journey because the country itself is unique. I wouldnt spend a lot of time on comparisons," he said. Indias journey will be extraordinary, whether you measure things in GDP, or however you want to measure things, the scale will be enormous," he added.

Apple has posted three straight quarters of double-digit sales growth in India, even as it recorded an overall year-on-year revenue drop of 5% globally in the December quarter. According to data from IDC, Apple is estimated to have shipped 6.5 million iPhones in India in 2022, up from 4.8 million in 2021.

In November, Mint reported that other products such as Macbooks, iPads and services were also becoming key contributors to the companys India growth story. Earnings for the quarter ended March are to be announced on 4 May.

On Tuesday, Cook said Apples retail stores in the country would help people discover its products and help them learn what they can do beyond looking at them simply as phones or laptops.

Apple retail is more than a store. Thats a small part of what it does. A large part of what it does is provide a place for people to discover and explore our products and how they can help them in some way," Cook said.

I think discoverability is a challenge in every country, not just India. Ultimately, youre trying to match a product and its capabilities to a person and their desires, and thats a one-to-one match. Its not a one-to-many match. Its a challenge everywhere, but one that we feel up to," he added.

As part of the opening, Apple is offering a Mumbai Rising" special at the store, with local artists and creative professionals offering free sessions on Apple products, along with other hands-on activities.

The Mumbai store is also among the most energy-efficient Apple Stores in the world, according to the company. It claimed that the store uses a dedicated solar array and has zero reliance on fossil fuels for running operations.

The store is operationally carbon-neutral, running on 100% renewable energy," the company said in a press release.

Apple did not release the number of visitors, but people Mint spoke with at the store estimated it to be in thousands by 4 pm. One customer, who had flown from Goa to visit the store, said he had waited in line for over an hour and a half to enter the store, and even though he didnt buy anything, he spent over four hours shooting videos of the store and the overall event.

There were also visitors from other parts of the country. A member of the events team engaged in managing the event estimated that 1,500 people visited the store on Monday.

To be sure, Apple already sells and services its products at other physical locations in India, which are run by third parties. The new ones in Mumbai and Delhi are the first self-owned stores and have been rumoured to be in the works for more than a year now.

Cook noted that some of the recent developments in India were delayed because of the pandemic.

Analysts have said that combined with its own online store, the self-owned Apple Stores will offer the company more control over its retail channels here. However, most said that even though these stores will get priority access to products etc., its unlikely to hurt Apples partners since the company still needs them to expand its reach. Apple has a 4% market share in Indias smartphone market, implying plenty of room for growth.

Cook also met some developers from Apples iOS Design and Development App Accelerator during his visit. Reports said the Apple boss is set to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi later this week. The Delhi store opens on 20 April, and like the Mumbai store, Cook is set to inaugurate that one as well.
Indias largest power generator NTPC Ltd hopes to commission 3.5 GW of capacity by 2030 from its two nuclear plants under construction, a company executive said. The state-run company is also working with the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) and the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) to develop smaller reactors which can be set up quickly.

NTPC is developing the two nuclear plantsat Mahi Banswara in Rajasthan and Chutka in Madhya Pradeshin a joint venture with Nuclear Power Corp. of India Ltd (NPCIL).

Work has started at the two plants of Mahi Banswara and Chutka. By 2030, we should be able to commission these plants," the executive said, adding nuclear capacity, which is currently under NTPC, may be later housed under its subsidiary NTPC Green Energy Ltd (NGEL).

NTPC is also in talks with American, French and Russian companies for partnership in developing so-called small modular reactors (SMRs), the executive added. SMRs are smaller reactors that can be factory-built, unlike conventional nuclear reactors that are built on site. They have a power capacity of up to 300 MW(e) per unitwhich is about a third of the capacity of traditional nuclear reactors but being a mobile and agile technology, they can be set up in locations not suitable for larger plants.

The focus is on ensuring all that the products for the SMRs are made in India. It will take some time as setting up SMRs takes around five years at the least," the official added.

Queries sent to NTPC remained unanswered till press time.

Power generated via SMRs would be part of NTPCs targeted 60 GW installed green energy capacity by 2032. Currently, NTPC has a total installed power generation capacity of 71.644 GW, of which 3.01 GW is renewable energy.

NTPCs plan to develop SMRs is in line with the Centres ambitious net-zero targets. In November 2022, Union minister of state for atomic energy Jitendra Singh said India is taking steps to build SMRs with up to 300 MW capacity to fulfill its commitment to clean energy transition. Recently, the minister also said that nearly 9% share of Indias electricity is likely to come from nuclear sources by 2047.
MUMBAI : Tata Group, on Tuesday appointed Dr. Randhir Thakur, as the CEO and managing director of

Tata Electronics Pvt Ltd (TEPL), as the group has drawn a strategy to strengthen its semiconductor manufacturing capabilities in an attempt to gain an edge over rivals in the country's thriving precision machining business.

Till recently, Thakur was associated with global electronic chip and circuits manufacturing giant Intel.

Thakur, a veteran in the manufacturing space, was serving as the president of Intel Foundry Services before taking charge at the helm of TEPL.

N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman, Tata Sons Pvt. Ltd. (the holding company of Tata Group) said, We are delighted to welcome Dr. Thakur as part of the Tata Group. The roadmap for Tata Electronics is exciting and Dr. Thakurs in-depth knowledge and multi-functional experience will bode well for the company."

"I am confident that under his leadership, Tata Electronics will lead India to take its rightful position in the global semiconductor and precision manufacturing industry," added Chandrasekaran.

TEPL, a greenfield venture of the conglomerate, is essentially an electronic component manufacturing firm, with its primary manufacturing facility located in the Krishnagiri district of Tamil Nadu, India.

Through TEPL, the salt-to-software conglomerate intends to gain a beachhead in the country's precision machining and assembly capabilities space.

Thakur brings over 40 years of experience in the global manufacturing, research and development, and profitable P&L management," said Tata Group in a release on Tuesday.

"He has made significant contributions to the development of advanced semiconductor technologies. He has deep expertise in ecosystem leadership, process technology equipment, driving M&A and joint ventures, product development, while collaborating closely with ecosystem partners and customers", said the press release.

I am excited to contribute to building Tata Electronics as an integral and trusted part of the global electronics industry enabling our customers success. For semiconductors as well as precision manufacturing, we intend to deliver innovation, quality, and cost advantage with speed and at scale." said Dr. Thakur.
An Instagram influencer has received a legal notice for flagging the alleged negative impact of a health drink. He was pushed to withdraw the post, sparking outrage on social media. The problem runs deeper. Food companies often take advantage of weak labelling laws. Mint explores:

What did the Instagram post say?

The post highlighted the nutritional ingredients of Bournvita, a popular drink for children which claims to provide strength every day. It said the health drink is loaded with sugar alongside chemical emulsifiers, raising agents, artificial flavours and colours. The post received wide traction as most consumers often ignore back-of-the-pack nutrition information. The label shows that although Bournvita has essential minerals and vitamins, nearly half of it is sugar by weight (49.8 gm per 100 gm) -- thats more sugar content than even carbonated beverages (about 11 gm per 100 ml).

How pervasive is this problem?

Manufacturers often mislead consumers by making false health claims, such as fruit juice makers using natural, real etc. in their brand names. Edible oil makers often sell their product as kachi ghani (cold-pressed) with a disclaimer in small font noting that kachi ghani is part of the brand name and does not represent the true nature of the product. Recently, a celebrity promotion advised mothers to feed children biscuits instead of losing sleep over what to cook. The ad was withdrawn after nutritionists pointed out that biscuits made of sugar and milk solids cannot replace a freshly prepared meal.

View Full Image Photo: DragonImages

What did Bournvita say in its response?

The company said a 20g serving of Bournvita has 7.5 gm of added sugar, which is much less" than the daily recommended limit for children. This ignores the total sugar content of 10 gm (added sugar+the sugar in ingredients) per serving, and the fact that just one glass of the drink provides 40% of the sugar a child can have in a day (25g per day).

Are better labelling laws a solution?

India does not have a law that prohibits marketing of junk and ultra-processed food for children. Last year, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India released a draft policy on front-of-pack labels which can alert consumers on high levels of sugar, salt and fat in packaged food. But nutrition experts said health-star ratings will confuse consumers. A sugary food item with added vitamins and minerals can be whitewashed to look healthy. So, experts asked for warning labels which are easy to understand.

What are the health implications?

Ultra-processed food can lead to overeating due to their sensory propertiesyou empty a packet of chips, and want more. In India, non-communicable diseases like diabetes and hypertension is rising. A 2019 health ministry survey found one in 10 school children to be diabetic while one in 20 had hypertension. A study commissioned by FSSAI found that 95% of packaged food items exceed recommended thresholds for either salt, sugar or fat. No wonder, the food industry is pushingbackhard.
NEW DELHI : Vedanta Group has partnered with 20 display glass companies from South Korea as it works to build an electronics manufacturing hub in India, a top company executive said.

The Anil Agarwal-led group signed agreements with these companies at the recent Korea Biz-Trade Show 2023 event, organized by the South Korean governments trade promotion arm.

More than 50 companies have shown their interest in partnering with us and we are pleased to announce that we have signed memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with 20 Korean companies engaged in the electronics manufacturing value chain," said Akarsh Hebbar, global managing director of Vedantas semiconductor and display business. Vedanta is setting up a semiconductor plant in Gujarat in a joint venture with Taiwans Foxconn.

Hebbar also invited more companies to partner for the electronics hub. He said the hub has the capacity to attract more than 150 companies and can generate more than 100,000 direct and indirect jobs in the future.

Vedantas greenfield display fab will be part of the proposed electronics hub, added Hebbar. Last December, Vedanta signed agreements with 30 Japanese firms during a roadshow in Japan, which was attended by delegates from 100 companies.

Vedantas display manufacturing business is led by its unit Avanstrate Inc, which makes special glass used in LCD panels and has manufacturing operations in South Korea and Taiwan. The firm is also working on developing wafer glass, ultra-thin glass, and glasses for AR/VR.

India is emerging as a manufacturing destination for electronics. To be sure, Indias revenue share of the semiconductor component market is expected to clock a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19% to $300 billion in 2026 from $119 billion in 2021, according to an August 2022 report by India Electronics & Semiconductor Association (IESA) and Counterpoint Research.

In December 2021, the Indian government approved a 76,000 crore production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme to attract global semiconductor and display manufacturers to set up fabs and display manufacturing units in India.

In addition to Vedanta-Foxconns plans, International Semiconductor Consortium (ISMC), a joint venture between UAEs Next Orbit Ventures and Israels Tower Semiconductor, are also working to set up a fab in Karnataka.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Abhijit Ahaskar Abhijit writes on tech policy, gaming, security, AI, robotics, electronics and startups. He has been in the media industry for over 12 years. Read more from this author
NEW DELHI : The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of UN has recognized Indias strength in the seed sector which it would be useful to other countries, said a statement from the union agriculture ministry.

Earlier in the morning, a bilateral meeting was conducted with FAO. Secretary (DARE) & Director General (ICAR), Himanshu Pathak, who is also the MACS Chair, led the discussions and emphasized that the extension service through KVK to farmers would be a very important area of cooperation.

FAO representatives also expressed keen interest in extending cooperation in extension service.

Ishmahane Elouafi, Chief Scientist, FAO, and Selvaraju Ramasamy, Senior Agriculture Officer, FAO participated in the meeting. They recognized Indias strength in the seed sector, which will be very useful to other countries," the ministry said.

Later in the evening the delegates visited the archaeological site and ASI Museum at Sarnath and witnessed the light and sound show.

The three-day G20 Meeting of Agricultural Chief Scientists (MACS) with the theme, Sustainable Agriculture and Food System for Healthy People and Planet" is underway at Varanasi. The Meeting was inaugurated by the Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation, and Road Transport and Highways, General (Dr.) V K Singh (Retd) yesterday.

A session was conducted to discuss Indias initiative on Millets and Other Ancient Grains International Research Initiative (MAHARISHI). The representatives of G20 Nations, invited countries and International Organisations supported the MAHARISHI Initiative and expressed that millets being climate a smart crop and super health food, the International Research cooperation is pivotal for its promotion and adoption.

Himanshu Pathak and Philippe Mauguin, Chair & CEO, INRAE - National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (France) led their respective delegation in the bilateral meeting between India and France.

Both countries expressed keen interest in cooperation in the areas of climate change, crop diversification, soil & water conservation, natural farming and biofortified crops.

Last evening the delegates experienced Ganga Arati on a river cruise through the Ganges followed by an exhilarating cultural programme.

About 80 foreign delegates from the G20 member states, invited guest countries, international organizations and special invitees by India are participating in the three day meeting.

On the concluding day on 19 April, 2023 discussion on MACS Communique will continue.
The green floors of JATCOs Fuji Area 2 factory hum with quiet confidence. Diligent inspectors appraise the gears and pulleys that make up the Japanese auto-parts makers transmission systems. Robots stamp parts and flip them onto production lines. For decades, JATCO, like the rest of Japans vaunted auto industry, has perfected carmaking. Japan has been at the forefront of the industry, pioneering just-in-time manufacturing and leading the development of hybrid cars. But the next big evolutionthe shift to electric vehicles (EVs)has become a source of angst. The EV shift will be a big transformation, theres no denying that," says Sato Tomoyoshi, JATCOs CEO. Our company will have to change drastically."

So far, Japan and its carmakers are lagging in the race towards EVs, the industrys fastest-growing product area. Battery-powered electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) accounted for around 13% of all cars sold globally in 2022, up from 2.6% in 2019. In some markets, including China, the share is some 20%. But in Japan, it was just 2%. The firms pulling ahead in the EV race include newcomers, such as Tesla and Chinas BYD, and established giants like Germanys Volkswagen. Yet Japanese carmakers are not among them. None is in the top 20 for global EV sales, even though Nissan and Mitsubishi released some of the worlds first EVs, more than a decade ago. Toyota, the worlds largest car company, sold just 24,000 EVs out of 10.5m total sales in 2022. (Tesla sold 1.3m.) Sales of Toyotas first fully electric model, an SUV called the bZ4X, had to be paused last summer due to defects that caused the wheels to fall off.

Critics worry that this early stalling on EVs could cause the wheels to fall off the Japanese auto industry as a whole. Some see parallels with semiconductors and consumer electronics, industries where Japanese firms were initially dominant, then missed important trends abroad and ended up losing out to nimbler competitors. A similar decline in the auto industry, which accounts for nearly 20% of Japans exports and some 8% of Japanese jobs, would have massive economic and social implications.

Japanese carmakers are now revving to catch up. Toyota has a new CEO, Sato Koji, who was tapped in part to lead the companys push for electrification. At his first press conference on April 7th, Toyota announced plans to release ten new EV models and boost annual EV sales to 1.5m by 2026. We will thoroughly implement electrification, which we can do immediately," Mr Sato said. Honda has plans to launch 30 EV models by 2030, and formed an EV joint venture with Sony last year; the company pitched a corporate reorganisation taking effect this month as an electrification acceleration". In February, Nissan announced it would release 19 new EV models by 2030; it now calls electrification the core of our strategy".

Japans slow start on EVs stems in part from its earlier successesor as Mr Sato of JATCO puts it, it is a classic case of the innovators dilemma. Industry leaders hesitated to embrace a new technology that might undermine areas where Japan leads, such as standard hybrid vehicles, which combine an internal combustion engine (ICE) and an electric motor powered by batteries that capture energy from regenerative braking (rather than charging with outside electricity, as with PHEVs). Engineers at Japanese firms that fine-tuned complex hybrids were also unimpressed by EVs, which are simpler mechanically. Within the industry, there are still a lot of people attached to the engine," Mr Sato says. Executives worried about the implications of the EV shift on their vast network of suppliers like JATCO, given that EVs require fewer parts and widgets than ICEs. Carmakers assumed eventually switching gears to EVs would be a cinch: The logic was that when the time comes, we can easily shift from hybrids to EVs," says a former executive at a large Japanese car company.

Japan also made an early wrong turn with hydrogen, another emergent auto technology with the potential to be carbon-free. Toyota, Japans biggest and most influential carmaker, bet that hydrogen fuel-cells would become the leading method to electrify cars. Abe Shinzo, Japans prime minister from 2012 to 2020, championed policies to make Japan a hydrogen society"; in 2015, Toyota delivered its first hydrogen fuel-cell sedan, the Mirai, to Abe himself. While hydrogen may come to play a big role in decarbonising hard-to-electrify sectors, such as steel production, or fuelling long-haul trucks, it has so far turned out to make little sense as a technology to electrify light consumer vehicles. Even in Japan, which has built a fair amount of hydrogen refuelling infrastructure, Toyota has struggled to peddle the pricey Mirai: the company has sold a total of just 7,500 fuel-cell vehicles in its home market.

While governments in China, Europe and America have increasingly subsidised EVs as part of their climate policies, Japan has done less to incentivise their adoption. The government has called for 100% of vehicles sold by 2035 to be electrified, but that includes hybrid vehicles, in contrast to other governments which have defined the next generation of vehicles more narrowly. Subsidies for fuel-cell vehicles remain much larger than those for EVs. Strict regulation has hampered the expansion of EV charging infrastructure: Japan has roughly one-quarter as many public EV chargers as South Korea, its much smaller neighbour.

Nagging scepticism about EV technology explains some of Japans wariness. Japanese carmakers and officials are still questioning", says Tsuruhara Yoshiro of AutoInsight, an industry journal: Are EVs what consumers want? Does it provide value to them? Is it the best way to reduce CO2?" Toyoda Akio, the previous Toyota CEO and grandson of the companys founder, liked to say that carbon is the enemy, not the internal combustion engine." Even under Mr Sato, a protege of Mr Toyoda, the company is sticking to what it calls a multi-pathway" strategy that sees EVs as one part of a diverse fleet. We think that the way to get the most carbon-dioxide emissions reductions net overall throughout the world is to tune the solution for each part of the world," says Gill Pratt, Toyotas chief scientist. For example, in developing countries, where renewable energy uptake has generally been slower than in the West, traditional hybrids might offer a more practical and economical way to reduce emissions in the interim.

But some think Japans carmakers are simply moving too late to catch up to the changing times in more developed markets. They are like the Tokugawa shogun-era closed countrythey refused to see what is happening in the world," says Murasawa Yoshihisa, a management consultant. While Japanese cars were once synonymous with fuel efficiency and therefore environmentalism, they risk coming to stand for climate denialism. Japans three biggest carmakersToyota, Honda and Nissanrank lowest among the top ten global auto companies when it comes to decarbonisation efforts, according to a recent study by Greenpeace.

As Toyotas experience with the bZ4X suggests, designing and building top-of-the-line EVs may not be as simple as the Japanese firms assumed. They were so overconfident that once they decide to do it, they will dominate the EV market," Mr Murasawa says. But their offerings have turned out to be old-fashioned." Creating EVs that appeal to consumers requires putting more focus on software, while Japanese firms traditionally prioritise hardware. While they gear up, Japanese companies are already losing loyal customers. Japanese brands that built a legacy" in America have been caught flat-footed in the context of 2022", concludes S&P Global Mobility, a research outfit. As the study notes, consumers switching to EVs in 2022 were largely moving away from Toyota and Honda.

For more coverage of climate change, sign up for The Climate Issue, our fortnightly subscriber-only newsletter, or visit our climate-change hub.

 2023, The Economist Newspaper Limited. All rights reserved. From The Economist, published under licence. The original content can be found on www.economist.com
Disney+ Hotstar has announced a new show called Saas Bahu Aur Flamingo that will premiere on 5 May. The series stars Dimple Kapadia, Radhika Madan, Angira Dhar and Isha Talwar and has been directed by Homi Adajania.

Disney+ Hotstar led the viewership of Hindi language OTT originals in India in 2022, according to a report by media consulting firm Ormax. The platform streamed seven out of the top 15 most-watched original shows.

Ajay Devgns OTT debut Rudra: The Edge of Darkness was the most watched Hindi web show of the year with 35.2 million views on Disney+ Hotstar, followed by the third season of Aashram (34.3 million views) on MX Player, the second season of Panchayat (29.6 million views) on Amazon Prime Video, Criminal Justice: Adhura Sach (23 million views) and The Great Indian Murder (23 million views). The last two also streamed on Disney+ Hotstar.

Akshay Kumar-starrer Cuttputlli, streaming on Disney+ Hotstar, was the most watched original Hindi film with 26.9 million views. It was followed by Yami Gautams A Thursday (25.5 million views) and comedy Govinda Naam Mera (24.4 million views), both on Hotstar. Karan Johars Gehraiyaan (22.3 million views) on Amazon Prime Video and mystery thriller Freddy starring Kartik Aaryan (20.9 million views), on Hotstar, were fourth and fifth in the list.

Ormax is a tracking, testing and analytics-led consulting firm for television and streaming services, among others. Viewership is estimated using primary research conducted among audience across India at a weekly level. Viewership estimates represent the number of people who watched the show (at least one full episode) or film (at least 30 minutes). It does not represent the number of accounts used for watching the same, so three members of a family, or two friends, watching on the same account are considered as unique audience -- means they are counted separately. The audience remains unduplicated and if an audience member watches episodes spread over multiple weeks, he or she is still counted only once.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Lata Jha Lata Jha covers media and entertainment for Mint. She focuses on the film, television, video and audio streaming businesses. She is a graduate of the Columbia School of Journalism. She can be found at the movies, when not writing about them. Read more from this author
Ahluwalia Contracts from realty - civil construction industry, Indraprastha Medical Corporation from hospital sector, Linc from stationery are the three top stock picks that domestic brokerage and research firm HDFC Securities has suggested that investors can look to buy with the time horizon of two to three quarters.

HDFC Securities' top stock picks -

1) Ahluwalia Contracts: ACIL continues to see robust prospects in healthcare, data centers, industrial structures apart from government buildings. Competitive intensity remains elevated and ACIL remains very selective in bidding for projects.

Despite near term headwinds of high input costs, margin is expected to improve from FY24E with softening of commodity prices, a narrower gap of indices with input prices, slightly lesser competitive intensity and new projects bid at elevated input price assumption.

The promoter family remains closely involved in the business with welldefined responsibilities and clear understanding of future roles. ACILs robust and diversified order book, strong bidding pipeline, timely execution could help to bring more orders going forward.

Investors could buy the stock in the 511- 521 band and add more on dips to 457-465 (10x FY25E EPS). The brokerage feels the Base case fair value of the stock is 564 (12.25 times FY25E EPS) and the Bull case fair value is 610 (13.25 times FY25E EPS) over the next two to three quarters. At the CMP of 516 the stock trades at 11.2 times FY25E EPS.

2) Indraprastha Medical Corporation: During the pandemic, lock downs impacted the healthcare companies in India severely. There was a significant drop in patient footfall be it a single speciality, multi-speciality, tertiary-care hospitals or even diagnostics businesses.

Financial performance of IMCL was also impacted due to the same, however, as the situation has stabilized, the companys business has also got back on track. There was 45% jump in revenue in FY22 and margins again also improved to ~13% in FY22 v/s 6.6% in FY21.

The company has negligible debt on balance sheet and has been paying healthy dividends to its shareholders. We have envisaged 18% CAGR in revenue and 32% CAGR in net profit over FY22-25E.

HDFC Sec believe the base case fair value of the stock is 93 (7 times FY25E EPS) and the bull case fair value of the stock is 99.5 (7.5 times FY25E EPS) over the next 2-3 quarters.

Investors can buy the stock in the range of 82-84 and add on dips to the range of 72-74 (5.5 times FY25E EPS). At the LTP, the stock is trading at 6.3 times FY25E EPS.

3) Linc Ltd: On the back of its renewed commitment to growth, the brokerage expects the company to report revenue and PAT growth of 24% and 90% (partly due to low base) over FY22-25E.

Lower working capital requirements and improving profitability has improved companys cash generation while also bolstering its return profile. Linc aims to maintain a healthy, deleveraged balance sheet in the future by financing its operations largely through cash accruals.

The management of the company has envisioned to transform Linc into a FMCG company by increasing its reach, enhancing its brand visibility and embarking on innovations to de-commoditize its business. Consistency in performance would make Linc a strong candidate for re-rating, as per the brokerage.

We think the base case fair value of the stock is 661 (17.5 times FY25E EPS) and the bull case fair value is 715 (19 times FY25E EPS). Investors can buy the in stock 591-601 band (16 times FY25E EPS) and add more on dips in 525-533 band (14 times FY25E EPS)," the note stated.

The views and recommendations made above are those of individual analysts or broking companies, and not of Mint.
It will take almost four years to develop a new plan for restoring grizzly bears in wild country along the Montana-Idaho border, according to a proposed workplan submitted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

FWS filed its response on Friday to a federal court ruling ordering the agency to reconsider a grizzly reintroduction plan for the Bitterroot Ecosystem that had lain dormant for 22 years. In Alliance for the Wild Rockies et. al. vs FWS, grizzly recovery coordinator Hilary Cooley and the State of Idaho, U.S. District Judge Don Molloy ruled that FWS had unreasonably delayed implementing its own 2000 decision to transplant 25 grizzlies to the recovery area.

Now, almost 40 years have passed, and nothing has been done; no bears, no community advisory committee, no community or other educational instruction in towns or schools for bear safety, safe practices in garbage storage techniques, and other ways to reduce attracting bears, Molloy wrote on March 15. He gave FWS until April 15 to present an updated timeline.

Because of the change in circumstances arising from individual bears dispersing within the Bitterroot Ecosystem with greater regularity, the Service plans to take a fresh look at its strategy for supporting restoration of grizzly bears to the Bitterroot Ecosystem, FWS wrote in its response to Molloy. With the preparation of an EIS (environmental impact statement), the Service anticipates considering a range of alternatives, including options to facilitate natural recolonization through affirmative actions, such as identifying connectivity areas, addressing sanitation issues, future augmentation, and/or revising the recovery plan chapter for the Bitterroot Ecosystem. Because of the substantial public interest in the restoration of grizzly bears to the Bitterroot Ecosystem, the Service will conduct a public scoping process to invite input on the possible range of alternatives for consideration in the draft EIS.

The case grew out of an effort in the 1990s to create an experimental population of grizzly bears in the Bitterroot Ecosystem  one of six recovery areas designated as grizzly habitat under the Endangered Species Act protection plan. While the 25,140-square-mile expanse of the Bitterroots along the Montana-Idaho border and an extensive roadless and wilderness complex farther west in Idaho were historic grizzly strongholds, the entire population was killed off in the early 20th century.

After almost 15 years of public debate and scientific research, FWS approved a plan to transplant 25 grizzly bears in the Bitterroot Ecosystem in 2000. Unlike naturally occurring grizzlies in the Northern Continental Divide and Greater Yellowstone ecosystems, those Bitterroot bears would be an experimental population managed through a local community advisory committee.

But the FWS plan was finalized just as President Bill Clintons administration was transitioning to that of President George W. Bush. Bushs Interior Department officials changed course in 2001 and chose a no action option. Confusingly, that 2001 proposed rule was never officially adopted.

Were very happy the Fish and Wildlife Service has committed to initiating a whole new National Environmental Policy Act process, Alliance for the Wild Rockies Executive Director Michael Garrity said in an email on Monday. That will include an open and transparent process, including public review and comment, to produce a Draft and Final Environmental Impact Statement and a new Record of Decision, rather than supplementing the outdated, never-implemented decision from two decades ago.

Garrity called the Bitterroot Ecosystem the lynchpin to recovering and delisting grizzly bears because it is the connecting corridor between the Cabinet-Yaak, Selkirk, Northern Continental Divide and Yellowstone ecosystems grizzly populations."

Grizzlies have had threatened status under the federal Endangered Species Act since 1975. Their recovery plan envisioned assisting or creating viable populations in six recovery areas of Montana, Idaho, Wyoming and Washington. Two of those areas, the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem, now support about 1,000 grizzlies each.

But the other areas have struggled. Even with some transplanted bears, the Cabinet-Yaak and Selkirk recovery areas each have around 50 grizzlies. The North Cascades recovery area had a handful of bears but now appears to have no resident grizzlies.

The Bitterroot recovery area also has no confirmed resident grizzlies. But it has seen a growing number of bears from other areas exploring its landscape as well as other nearby Montana mountain ranges to the east.

The lack of a comprehensive recovery plan in the Bitterroot Ecosystem has meant some grizzlies captured there have been relocated back into their original ecosystems, instead of being allowed to colonize the new landscape.

FWS noted its workplan schedule accounts for the agencys significant workload and limited resources. That includes another proposed grizzly reintroduction effort in the North Cascades Ecosystem. It also contends with FWSs 12-month review of petitions from Montana and Wyoming to delist grizzlies from ESA protection in the Northern Continental Divide and Greater Yellowstone ecosystems.

The Bitterroot plan will include participation with the Nez Perce Tribe, Idaho Department of Fish and Game, Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife & Parks and several national forests. Public scoping of the process should begin this winter. A final record of decision could be released around October 2026.
IT giant Infosys has presented its shareholding pattern for the quarter ending March 31, 2023 period. In Q4, the largest life insurer LIC increased its stake in the company, while promoters and mutual funds have also done the same. However, foreign and institutional investors have reduced their exposure to the company during the quarter. Infosys stock on Tuesday recovered some of the previous losses after posting lower-than-expected Q4 earnings.

As per the latest shareholding pattern, on BSE, LIC holds 29,82,44,977 equity shares or 8.19% in Infosys as of March 31, 2023. This is higher compared to 7.71% held as of the December 2022 quarter.

On the other hand, the foreign investors' category saw a decline in overall stake to 35.08% in Infosys as of March 2023 quarter as against 36.28% in December 2022 quarter.

Also, institutional investors holding in Infosys has dipped marginally to 68.95% in Q4FY23 versus 69.05% in Q3FY23.

According to Trendlyne data which tracks the shareholding pattern of listed companies, the number of foreign investors increased to 1688 in Q4FY23 versus 1632 investors in Q3FY23. Also, the number of mutual fund schemes surged to 37 in Q4FY23 versus 36 in Q3FY23.

Mutual funds and insurance companies together hold a 31.33% stake in Infosys. LIC is the largest shareholder public shareholder in Infosys, and also the highest among insurance companies. Other insurance firms that have a piece of Infosys shares are --- ICICI Prudential Life Insurance and SBI Life Insurance which have 1.30% and 1.19% stakes respectively.

Among mutual funds invested in Infosys, the top investors are ICICI Prudential MF, HDFC MF, SBI MF, UTI MF, and Aditya Birla Sun Life Trustee.

On BSE, Infosys' share price closed at 1260.95 apiece marginally up. Its market cap is over 5.23 lakh crore.

On Monday, the share price of Infosys dropped by an unprecedented level to hit a new 52-week high on both BSE and NSE. Infosys shares plunged by 130.50 or 9.40% to close at 1,258.10 apiece on BSE, after hitting a new 52-week low of 1,219 apiece. On NSE, after hitting a new 52-week low of 1,185.30 apiece, the stock ended at  1,259 apiece down by 9.37%.

Analysts are have yet maintained their Buy recommendation on Infosys stock price despite the near-term uncertainties.

Kumar Rakesh analyst at BNP Paribas in the latest report said, "INFOs FY24 guidance for CC revenue growth is 4-7% and for margin is 20-22% (both below BNPPe) as it tries to balance wage hikes and higher travel expenses by improving utilization and rationalizing the employee pyramid. We think the upper end of FY24 CC revenue growth guidance is achievable (BNPPe: 7.3%, implies 2.4% USD CQGR in 1Q-4QFY24). Deal wins fell 7% y-y (USD2.1b, book-to-bill: 0.46x) in 4QFY23 but INFO continues to see a strong large-deal pipeline. Given the heightened uncertainty at INFO, we think TCS is better positioned to benefit from the shift in customers focus to cost-optimization deals and it is our sector's top pick."

BNP has set a target price of 1,675 on Infosys, while maintaining Buy rating. This target price has been trimmed by the brokerage.

Meanwhile, Emkay Global analysts said, "Despite near-term challenges posed by the tough macro environment, we believe Infosys is well positioned to capture the growth opportunities across digital transformation, cost efficiency, and consolidation-led deals over the medium term. We cut our EPS by 4.4-6.3% for FY24E/25E, factoring-in the disappointing Q4. We maintain BUY on the stock, with revised TP of Rs1,620/share (earlier, Rs1,700) at 22x Mar-25E EPS."
The shares of Tata Chemical declined by over 6 per cent after the company announced a reduction in the prices of light and dense soda ash by 34% across India, effective Monday.

On Tuesday, the company's shares ended 6.06 per cent down at 931.90 on BSE.

While the price of sodium bicarbonate has not been revised, the price of salt, which is another important product for TCL, is completely independent.

The cut comes amid falling soda ash prices in China since mid-March as the market reacts to the unexpected news of substantial capacity addition in Inner Mongolia from May 2023.

Soda ash is used in a wide range of products, such as powdered detergents, glass manufacturing, soaps, and rechargeable batteries, as well as used extensively in metallurgical processes and across the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries.

Domestic brokerage firm Kotak Institutional Equities estimates that the India soda ash business accounts for 15-20% of TCLs consolidated EBITDA.

The price cuts should at least partially be mitigated by the lower coal prices. Besides, prices have risen in the North American region, which contributes nearly a third of consolidated EBITDA.

Amid this, the brokerage expects strong 4QFY23 earnings for Tata Chemicals, due to upward revisions of US domestic contract prices and firm realizations on US exports, while the downtrend in energy costs also bodes well for India's business.

However, with slowing demand from the construction and automotive sectors in the US and an influx of additional capacities from China and the US, the outlook for 2HCY23 is less clear, it stated.

"We leave our estimates unchanged for now, pending further concrete information about Chinese expansion activities; if new capacities come on stream as projected, this could pose a risk," said Kotak Institutional Equities.
Shares of Yes Bank Limited gained over 9 per cent during intraday trade on Tuesday ahead of the private sector lender's quarterly results later this week. The lender is scheduled to report its March quarter earnings on 22 April.

The rally came after Yes Bank's latest shareholding pattern showed that the private sector bank had 50.57 lakh shareholders at the end of 31 March, 2023.

As per the latest shareholding data, 13 mutual funds own 3.32 crore shares or 0.12 per cent stake. Banks held 949.57 crore shares or 33.02 per cent stake. As many as 13 insurance companies have 4.62 per cent stake or 132.94 crore shares at the end of the March quarter.

The lender had 48 lakh shareholders as per December 2022 data. SBI  Yes Bank's biggest shareholder with a 26.14 per cent stake in Yes Bank as of 31 December 2022, as per regulatory data  and other lenders had acquired the bank's shares for 10 apiece in March 2020.

ICICI Bank Ltd, Axis Bank Ltd, IDFC First Bank Ltd, Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd and Housing Development Finance Corp and state-owned Life Insurance Corp of India hold stakes of 1 per cent to 4.34 per cent in Yes Bank.

Yes Bank shares

At around 3:28 pm, Yes Bank shares were trading 9.12 per cent higher at 16.75 apiece. The stock has risen 7.52 per cent in the last week and 4.09 per cent in the last six months.

On a year-to-date basis, the shares are down 23.79 per cent, while it's up 17.38 per cent in the last one year.

Yes Bank shares have an average broker target of 19.3 per piece, implying a potential upside of 16.97 per cent, according to Trendlyne data.

The mean recommendation of the 14 analysts covering Yes Bank shares is "sell", while their median price target is 15, according to data from Refinitiv.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Meghna Sen Business journalist tracking markets, companies, economy and crypto for Livemint. She has 6 years of experience with online and print publications. Email: meghnasen08@gmail.com Read more from this author

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The battle in Sudan continued for the third day on Tuesday as explosions and gunfire thundered outside the capital Khartoum and other cities. According to the data by the United Nations, more than 200 people have been killed and more than 1,800 injured since the fighting erupted.

Congress leader Siddaramaiah on 18 April has urged the Central govt, MEA and Karnataka CM Basvaraj Bommai to immediately intervene and ensure the safe return of 31 tribal people stranded in Sudan.

In a series of tweet, Congress leader said that the Hakki Pikki tribe from Karnataka are stranded in Sudan and are left without food since the last few days and the govt is yet to initiate action to bring them back.

In a tweet, Siddaramaiah wrote, It is reported that 31 people from Karnataka belonging to Hakki Pikki tribe, are stranded in Sudan which is troubled by civil war. I urge PMO India, HMO India, MEA India and BS Bommai to immediately intervene & ensure their safe return"

In another tweet, he added, Hakki Pikkis in Sudan are left stranded without food since the last few days & the govt is yet to initiate action to bring them back. BJP govt should immediately open diplomatic discussions & reach out to international agencies to ensure the well-being of Hakki Pikkis."

He further added, It is also unfortunate to know that we have lost one Indian & 60 others in the ongoing civil war in Sudan. My deepest condolences to their families and pray for the peace in the region."

It is reported that 31 people from Karnataka belonging to Hakki Pikki tribe, are stranded in Sudan which is troubled by civil war.



I urge @PMOIndia @narendramodi, @HMOIndia, @MEAIndia and @BSBommai to immediately intervene & ensure their safe return.  Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) April 18, 2023

Congress national spokesperson and the party's in-charge for the upcoming Karnataka Assembly polls, Randeep Surjewala, on Tuesday claimed the BJP government at the Centre has made no effort to rescue 31 tribals from Karnataka who are stuck as violence rages in Sudan.

Earlier in the day, labelling PM Modi and Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai as "Anti-Kannadiga," Surjewala put out a tweet stating, 31 Kannadigas of Hakki Pikki Tribe have been left stranded in the civil war in Sudan. The Anti-Kannadiga Modi Govt has left them to their fate, instead of evacuating and ensuring their safe return. Where are Mr. Prahlad Joshi and Shobha Karandje and BJP M.P's? SHAME ON U MR. BOMMAI!"

31 Kannadigas of Hakki Pikki Tribe have been left stranded in the civil war in Sudan.



The Anti-Kannadiga Modi Govt has left them to their fate, instead of evacuating & ensuring their safe return.



Where are Mr. Prahlad Joshi & Shobha Karandje & BJP M.Ps?



SHAME ON U MR. BOMMAI! pic.twitter.com/1HW94lBTDD  Randeep Singh Surjewala (@rssurjewala) April 18, 2023

Meanwhile, an Indian national died in Khartoum after sustaining bullet injuries in the violence-hit capital. The Indian embassy in Khartoum said the deceased, Albert Augestine, was working in a Dal Group Company in Sudan.

Condoling the death of the Indian national, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said the situation in Khartoum remains one of "great concern" and that India will continue to monitor the developments in that country

Battle in Sudan

Tension had been building for months between Sudan's army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which together toppled a civilian government in an October 2021 coup.

The friction was brought to a head by an internationally-backed plan to launch a new transition with civilian parties. A final deal was due to be signed earlier in April, on the fourth anniversary of the overthrow of long-ruling autocrat Omar al-Bashir in a popular uprising. Both the army and the RSF were required to cede power under the plan and two issues proved particularly contentious: one was the timetable for the RSF to be integrated into the regular armed forces, and the second was when the army would be formally placed under civilian oversight.

When fighting broke out on April 15, both sides blamed the other for provoking the violence. According to NYT, the fighting has left many of the five million residents of the capital, Khartoum, stranded at home without electricity or water as they marked the last few days of Ramzan, the Muslim holy month when many fast daily from dawn until dusk. Overwhelmed medical facilities have been targeted, including a major medical centre northeast of Khartoum that was shelled, evacuated and shut down. More than a dozen hospitals have shuttered, according to NYT.

Steps taken by MEA

The Ministry of External Affairs in view of the current clashes between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on Monday set up a Control Room to provide information and assistance to Indians.

In a press release, MEA said, In view of the current situation in Sudan, a Control Room has been set up at the Ministry of External Affairs to provide information and assistance." The ministry further shared the Coordinates of the Control Room, email and phone numbers for information on Indians stuck in Sudan. "Phone: 1800 11 8797 (Toll free) 91-11-23012113; 91-11-23014104; 91-11-23017905; Mobile: 91 9968291988 and Email: situationroom@mea.gov.in," shared the release.

(With inputs from agencies)
A Congress MLA in Chhattisgarh alleged on Tuesday that some shots were fired at his convoy in a village in the insurgency-hit Bijapur district. No one was hurt in the incident. Bastar Inspector General of Police Sunderraj P said the police received information about a firing by Maoists in a Bijapur village.

Vikram Mandavi has alleged that shots were fired at his convoy on Tuesday afternoon as he was returning from Gangalur village. Speaking to reporters, Mandavi said he had attended a nukkad sabha at Gangalur weekly market and was en route to Bijapur when the shots were fired near Padeda village.

While no person was injured, a bullet struck a wheel of a car belonging to Jila Panchayat member Parvati Kashyap, who was part of the convoy.

While returning from a public event in Gangaloor village, our convoy was attacked where fired were shots at one of the vehicles and its tyre got punctured. We all reached district HQs safely," Bijapur MLA Vikram Mandavi said.

An investigation has also been initiated in connection with the case.
Apple will open its first store in India called Apple BKC at Jio World Drive Mall in Bandra Kurla Complex. Apple CEO Tim Cook has arrived in India to welcome the first customers at the company's first store in the country.

While Apple's market share in India is close to 3%, the iPhone maker is trying to gain a larger market share in the country. According to data from the India Cellular and Electronics Association, iPhones accounted for more than 50% of smartphones exported from India between April 2022 and February 2023.

10 things you should know about the first Apple store in India:

1) The opening of Apple BKC coincides with the iPhone maker's 25th anniversary in India. The store will open in the Reliance Jio World Drive mall in the Bandra Kurla Complex.

2) Apple opened its Mumbai store to bloggers and tech reviewers on Monday, giving them a sneak peek at the store before it opens.

3) Apple CEO Tim Cook will welcome the first customers to the opening of Apple BKC. The Apple CEO is visiting India after a gap of seven years, he first visited the country in 2016. Cook is also expected to meet PM Modi and Deputy IT Minister Rajeev Chandrashekhar during his visit.

4) Although Apple's latest store in India appears similar to the company's stores in other parts of the world, there are certain efforts to Indianize the newest outlet. For instance, inspired by the iconic 'Kaali Peeli', the vintage yellow and black taxis that are synonymous with Mumbai.

5) The 100-member team at Apple BKC speaks 18 Indian languages, reflecting Apple's emphasis on inclusivity. Apple says it directly employs 2500 people in India and helps create 10 lakh jobs through its app ecosystem.

6)Apple BKC will also introduce an in-store servicing facility, called Genius Bay. At this facility, customers can receive troubleshooting advice from trained professionals. Customers will be able to schedule a servicing appointment by going to Apple India's official website.

7) Reportedly, 22 competing brands including Amazon, Facebook, Google, and Microsoft cannot own space or have advertisements near the new Apple store.

8)Apple will pay a hefty 42 lakh per month with an annual increase of 15 percent for the 20,000 square feet store. The company will also share 2 percent of its revenues with the property owners for the next 3 years.

9) To celebrate the opening of its first store in India, Apple created a special playlist on the Apple Music app and released new wallpapers for iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

10) After the opening of Apple BKC in Mumbai, the iPhone maker is planning to open its second store in India on April 20, called Apple Saket, in New Delhi. Previously, Apple sold its devices in India through third-party resellers or e-commerce websites such as Amazon or Flipkart.
Bank of India (BoI) is set to discuss the possibility of raising capital up to 6,500 crore at its upcoming board meeting on Tuesday.

Earlier, BoI stated in a filing to the stock exchanges that its board will contemplate raising funds through various channels such as issuing bonds and equity capital for the fiscal year 2023-24.

During its upcoming meeting, the Bank of India's board will review the possibility of raising 4,500 crore through various means of issuing fresh equity capital such as preferential issues, rights issues, qualified institutional placements, or follow-on public offers.

Alternatively, the bank may choose to issue Basel-III compliant Additional Tier-1 bonds in domestic or foreign currency to raise the same amount if necessary.

In addition, the Bank of India will also examine the possibility of issuing Basel-III compliant Tier-2 bonds, with a maximum value of 2,000 crore, bringing the total potential capital raised to 6,500 crore for the current fiscal year.

For the quarter ending in December, the bank recorded a 12% YoY increase in net profit to 1,151, and a 64% YoY increase in net interest income to 5,596 crore.
The finance ministry on Tuesday said that there is no discussion on capital gains tax.

The finance ministry said that there is no such proposal before the Government on capital gains tax.

India is preparing an overhaul of its direct tax laws to replace a byzantine matrix of rules and help Prime Minister Narendra Modi reduce widening income inequality if he returns to power next year, according to people with knowledge of the matter, reported Bloomberg.

For instance, while India levies a tax of as much as 30% on income, it taxes gains on certain asset classes such as equity funds and stocks at a lower rate.

This isnt progressive and goes against the principle of equity, said one of the people. A panel may be appointed to build on proposals submitted to the Finance Ministry in 2019 with an eye to implement in 2024, though no final decisions have been made, the people added.

Indias reliance on indirect taxes  levies on consumption  rather than direct taxes on capital is often cited by economists as the main culprit behind the countrys poor getting left behind even as the nation minted 70 new millionaires each day between 2018 and 2022. Oxfam International estimates the top 10% of Indias population holds 77% of national wealth and government data show about 6% pay income tax.
MUMBAI : In 2017, the aviation ministry was headed by Ashok Gajapathi Raju, a leader of the Telugu Desam Party, which was an ally of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) until 2019. BJP leader Jayant Sinha was his deputy. In an odd case documented at the time, the deputy stymied his own minister. An attempt by Raju to increase the flying rights to Dubai was blocked by Sinha, who was of the view that certain carriers from West Asia, including Emirates, Dubais flag carrier, had built a business model at the cost of Indian carriers. And to this date, Dubai and India have not been able to agree on increasing bilateral foreign flying entitlements despite several requests by the former.

A scathing report on Indias bilateral aviation pacts with several countries, issued a few years earlier by Vinod Rai, then the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), may have influenced Sinhas views on bilateral aviation pacts.

It is undoubtedly true that the liberalised policy towards foreign carriers in the bilateral agreements benefitted the Indian traveller, but what it did to Indian carriers is an entirely different story. The sequence of events, which took place between mid-2007 and mid-2010  a period of three years  wreaked havoc on Indian carriers, both public and private," Rai wrote in his memoir, Not just an accountant, published in 2014.

Bilateral agreements are air-service agreements between two countries. They allow airlines from two nations to fly between the two countries within a mutually agreed quota. India has signed bilateral air services agreements with 145 countries. The quota in each agreement is on the basis of seats per week or flights per week, as well as on the basis of open skies pacts, which allow unlimited access in terms of the number of flights.

In the book, Rai writes that Emirates was the biggest beneficiary of Indias largesse between 2007 and 2010. The entitlement is at 66,000 seats/week and the last increase was agreed upon in early 2014.

Rai was the CAG when the governments auditor published reports on the then civil aviation ministrys handling of the bilateral aviation pacts, as well as on decisions around Air India, then the countrys national carrier. The findings of those audit reports, along with reports on coal auctions and the auction of telecom airwaves, were used by opposition parties to hammer the United Progressive Alliance government during the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, and helped bring the Narendra Modi-led BJP to power.

The CAGs audit findings have shaped the views of the BJP government, which is not happy that city states such as Dubai and Singapore have developed their airports as aviation hubs fed by a large number of passengers from India. This has led to an unofficial ban on any increase in bilateral flying rights by India, and that proscription is in place even today.

Boosting Indian carriers

Several international airlines have been working hard to sway Indias firm stand and negotiate an increase in bilateral flying rights. So far, their efforts have not borne fruit. To a large extent, that is because the government is of the view that Indian carriers, which have access to a huge captive market, can become global players.

The plan of making Indians fly on Indian carriers has been given some momentum with the sale of Air India to the Tata Group and the airline companys subsequent record order for 470 aircraft, 70 of which are wide-bodied planes that can fly the long haul to markets in Europe, the UK, the US and Canada. IndiGo, Indias largest domestic carrier, is also reportedly negotiating a large aircraft order that may include wide-bodied planes.

In an interview with Mint, Union civil aviation minister Jyotiraditya Scindia also stated that an audit of bilateral usage by Indian carriers is on and any further decision on bilaterals would be taken post the audit. But, he added that the government, in consultation with stakeholders, is also working on a plan to make Delhi airport Indias first aviation hub, a key part of its larger strategy to get Indians to travel abroad on Indian carriers.

Sixth freedom traffic

In India, Emirates has always been based in Mumbai, but that changed recently, when the airline shifted its offices to Delhi. The reason for the shift: The management wants its India representative closer to the government to negotiate a deal on an increase in bilateral rights.

Emirates is not the only one. At an aviation conference held in Delhi last month, almost all the international airlines in attendance sought an increase in flying rights with India. They include Emirates, Jazeera Airways and Turkish Airlines. Separately, Malaysian carriers, Qatar and Singapore Airlines have also sought increase in entitlements.

These airlines have a network spanning the globe and are supported by a large airport in their home country that facilitates the hassle-free transfer of passengers coming from one country and going to another. In aviation parlance, such passengers are known as sixth freedom traffic: they are passengers flying from country A to country C via country B, which is the home country of the airline carrying them. Barring Jazeera Airways, each one of the airlines mentioned above wants flying rights to carry sixth freedom traffic from India.

Emirates, Turkish, Qatar and Singapore, among others, do not have a large market in their home countries and hence need passengers from a third country like India to fill their planes beyond their home country.

Industry analysts estimate that even today, about 60% of total passengers flying out of India in airlines from these countries are sixth freedom passengers going to Europe, the UK and the Americas. To tap this traffic, the government wants Indian carriers to increase direct connections to these markets. Most of the countries seeking rights do not have a captive market in their home countries, whereas India is home to 1.4 billion people and a growing middle class.

Making a case for more rights for Dubai, Emirates president Tim Clark said that the airline wanted to contribute to Indias growth story. We want to be part of it (the growth story). We are not here to threaten... We are here to add value to the Indian economy  by providing a range of products that other carriers are not able to, operating to multiple destinations where we know the Indian demand is...," Clark said at a conference in Delhi last month.

Another airline, Jazeera Airways, on the other hand, says it does not have any plans to carry sixth freedom traffic from India. We are a very small airline with 19 airplanes... neither us or Kuwait Airways (another airline from the country) have any interest or capability to carry long-haul connecting traffic on routes that interest expanding Indian carriers. Our focus is just to cater to the home market of India and Kuwait," the airlines CEO Rohit Ramachandran told Mint.

What local carriers want

While foreign carriers want bilateral flying rights to increase, domestic carriers do not see lack of rights as an impediment to their international launch or expansion plans.

For instance, Akasa, Indias newest airline, believes that there are enough rights available to launch international flights to the Middle East. It will either be the Middle East or Far East because thats all we can fly to. And you can narrow it down to where the bilaterals are available. And, in some cases, airlines are squatting on rights but not utilizing themthat evaluation is on at this stage," Akasas chief commercial officer Praveen Iyer told Mint.

Another airline executive, who did not want to be named, supports the governments approach and does not want India to offer any more foreign flying rights to countries with network carriers. In the short- to medium-term, passengers may have to pay high fares but Indian airlines will benefit during that period since there is a plan by Indian companies to expand internationally," the executive said.

Ministers view

While foreign airlines may have a list of demands, the Indian government does not seem to be in the mood to entertain airlines that are eyeing sixth freedom traffic from India.

It is important for me to give every avenue possible to my customer. That means certainly looking at international airlines and increasing their footprint into India... but also looking at our flag carriers growing their footprint internationally," said Scindia. And that is why I have been stressing to our airlines that we need to induct more wide-body aircraft so that we can cross the seven seas and make our mark there. I am very glad that in the last 1.5 years, many airlines have now started ordering wide-body aircraft."

He added India would also want to see foreign airlines providing point-to-point connectivity. My insistence is not necessarily only direct connectivity from but also direct connectivity to. Therefore, encouraging foreign carriers to also directly fly to India from their countries," he added.

While not giving a free hand to global network carriers that want sixth freedom traffic from India is one part of the governments strategy, the other part is to prepare airports to become aviation hubs and have airlines align with that.

The two-pronged plan

There are two key prerequisites for any country to become an aviation hub. One is a strong airline that has a global network connecting all the key parts of the world. The second is supporting airport infrastructure that allows a smooth transfer of international passengers from one aircraft to another.

With the Tata Group-owned Air India placing a record aircraft order, India will soon have its own global airline providing direct connections to key markets such as the US, the UK, Europe and Canada, along with other short- and medium-haul destinations to the east of India.

As for the other part of that strategy, the government has set in motion a plan to prepare airports in India to become aviation hubs. It has decided to start with the airport in Delhi, where changes will be made to ensure timely connectivity between flights and reduce connection times to a minimum.

We are working with stakeholders to look at how we can prepare Delhi airport to become a hub. A consultant will be hired to look at international comparables to see how we can go about doing that. So, that is work in progress," Scindia said.

Explaining the requirements to become a hub, Scindia explained: We need a concentration of airlines, domestic to international connectivity, and minimum connect time between airlines. We need to ensure that the volatility in terms of arrival and departures between flights is flattened out."

All these aspects will be looked at by the consultant, which will submit its report in the second half of this calendar year. Further down, the plan is to include other major airports of the country, too, thus, providing connections to every part of the country. The consultant is likely to study models followed by airports such as Heathrow (London), Dubai, Doha and Singapore.

Much to be fixed

Industry veterans believe that India has the potential to become an aviation hub and that the country may not have to depend heavily on sixth freedom traffic since it has a huge passenger base.

India absolutely has the potential, market, and need to create its own world-class hubs, and the government making this a priority is commendable," said Sanjiv Kapoor, aviation veteran and CEO-designate of Jet Airways.

Kapoor suggests that India could learn from global airports and bring in a lot of efficiencies within the existing airport infrastructure.

For hubs serving domestic-to-domestic and domestic-to-international connections such as in the US and EU, security is typically done only at the originating airport and not again at the connecting airport," he pointed out. In India currently, passengers are required to go through security again at the connecting airport even if arriving on a domestic flight, and this impacts speed, efficiency and throughput, which are essential for hubs."

Similarly, he said, hub airports with multiple terminals such as Singapore, Dubai, Frankfurt and London Heathrow offer airside connectivity between terminals to maximize efficiency and reduce connection time and hassles, he added. While India may not need a lot of sixth freedom traffic, easing transit visa norms for passengers transferring via India would be a step in the right direction, said Kapoor.

The government has started working on a plan to turn India into an aviation hub. Aircraft inductions by Air India and IndiGo are key spokes in that plan. Air Indias planes will start joining the fleet from mid-2025 and IndiGos induction of the Airbus 321 XLR, which can fly up to Amsterdam, will also start only 2025.

In the interim, however, Indian flyers will have to continue to choose from the limited flights available to go overseas, and very likely pay higher fares. That is, perhaps, a small price to pay considering the bigger plan to have Indians flying on Indian airlines when they travel abroad.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued issued a yellow warning for heatwave in next five days in Odisha. As per IMD, the mercury level in Odisha on Monday remained at 40 degrees Celsius and above in about 24 places in the state.

As per IMD, Baripada was reported as the hottest place with 44.2 degrees Celsius temperature. While, eight places Boudh, Nuapada, Jharsuguda, Talcher, Sambalpur, Titlagarh, Angul and Bolangir recorded temperatures above 43 degree Celsius." The weather office further added that three other places have recorded above 42 degrees and five places have recorded above 41 degrees.

After seeing the rising temperatures, IMD, Bhubaneswar issued yellow warnings for the next 5 days.

"There is no large change in maximum temperature (Day temperature) during the next 2-3 days and a gradual fall by 2-3 degrees Celsius thereafter at many places over the districts of Odisha. Maximum temperature (Day temperature) very likely to be 40 degrees and more and above normal by 2-3 degrees at a few places over the districts of Odisha," the IMD bulletin stated.

The IMD further said that thunderstorms with lightning are very likely to occur at one or two places over the districts of Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Malkangiri, Koraput, Rayagada, and Kandhamal.

Also, heat wave condition is likely at one or two places over the districts of Ganjam, Puri, Jagatsinghpur, and Sambalpur, it further added.

IMD had predicted that the country would experience a hotter-than-normal summer, warning states and UTs to make adequate preparations.

Earlier, Due to "intense heat wave condition" in the state, the Odisha government had ordered to close Anganwadi centres and all schools, both government and private, up to class 10th from Wednesday to April 16, a release from chief ministers office said. However, if the order will further continue is not known.

Apart from Odisha, IMD has also predicted heatwave conditions over isolated pockets of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Bihar, Sikkim, and Andhra Pradesh.

As per the forecast, the maximum temperature will rise by 2-3C during next three days in northwestern India. Heat wave conditions are very likely in isolated pockets over Punjab, Haryana on April 17 and over east and west Uttar Pradesh on April 18. Such conditions will also remain in place over east Uttar Pradesh on April 19.

Heatwave alerts have already been sounded for most of West Bengal and Andhra Pradesh and the IMD predicts no significant changes during the next five days. Heatwave conditions are likely to prevail over gangetic West Bengal and Bihar during the next four days and over sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim as well as Odisha during the next two days. Similar conditions will prevail over Jharkhand on April 18 and 19.

The IMD said that Central India is likely to see temperatures rise by rise by 2-3C during the next three days. Meanwhile in south peninsular India, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana will see the maximum temperature rise by about 2C during the next five days.

Heat wave conditions very likely in isolated pockets over coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam during the next three days," the IMD added. Meanwhile in Western India, Maharashtra is set to see temperatures rise by 2-3C during the next three days.

(With inputs from ANI)
North Dakota has its first confirmed case of bird flu this year, and the first in a commercial poultry flock in seven months.

The presence of avian influenza in a commercial turkey flock in Dickey County was confirmed by South Dakota State University, North Dakota's Agriculture Department said Tuesday. Dickey County is in the southeastern part of the state.

The operation has been quarantined and the birds destroyed, which is common practice to prevent spread of the disease that has impacted nearly 59 million birds nationwide since the outbreak began last year. The Agriculture Department does not identify an infected flock's owner or specific location, citing North Dakota law that allows the State Board of Animal Health to keep such information private.

Domestic birds in a 10-kilometer control zone around the affected farm are being monitored. The detection also triggers the suspension of shows, public sales, swaps and exhibitions of poultry and other birds in Dickey County.

Producers in the county also are barred from taking birds to or from poultry events in nonrestricted counties. Violations are punishable by a fine of up to $5,000. The restrictions will be lifted if no new bird flu cases emerge in the county within 30 days.

This is the first case of (bird flu) in poultry in the state this year, Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring said. Protecting our North Dakota producers, who raise approximately 1 million commercial birds yearly, and our many backyard bird owners is high priority.

North Dakota has had 25 confirmed bird flu cases in 17 counties since the first case, in a backyard flock in Kidder County in March 2022, according to state data. The state had not seen a case since last November, when a backyard flock in Mountrail County was impacted. The last commercial flock to be infected was last September, in Ransom County.

There also have been 311 confirmed bird flu cases in numerous types of wild birds throughout North Dakota, including in Burleigh and Morton counties, according to federal data. That's sixth-most in the nation, and neighboring Minnesota is tops with 566. Sick or dead wild birds can be reported at https://gf.nd.gov/wildlife/diseases/mortality-report.

Information on the U.S. Department of Agriculture's "Defend the Flock" program is at bit.ly/3EXht6w. More information about bird flu and biosecurity is available at bit.ly/3L0nvXO, bit.ly/3ygxfWp https://bit.ly/3L7FzMV and usgs.gov/centers/nwhc.

Remember to restrict access to property, keep wild birds away from other birds and practice enhanced biosecurity, State Veterinarian Dr. Ethan Andress said. Birds should be kept indoors, especially during the spring and fall migration.

Bird flu infection in people is rare, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Birds from infected flocks that are destroyed do not enter the food system.
UK's Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS), Admiral Tony Radakin on Monday said that India and the UK are natural partners in a world that is becoming more contested and volatile. His statements came when he met CDS General Anil Chauhan.

Both the Chiefs reviewed progress on various pillars of the UK-India defence partnership and exchanged views to further expand ties in all domains.

"We share many of the same democratic instincts and values and are committed to the rule of law. We are respected military powers, both undergoing significant investment and modernisation and exercising together across, land, sea and air. But we can do more. I value the opportunity to meet with General Anil Chauhan to discuss how we can develop our partnership in a way that benefits our mutual security and prosperity," said Radakin.

Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan was called on by his British counterpart Admiral Sir Tony Radakin. Discussions focussed on augmenting strong bilateral defence cooperation as well as a collaboration under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative of the Government of India, according to Defence officials.

Radakin is taking part in a series of high-level meetings in India this week, continuing momentum in building strategic ties between the two countries and held discussions with Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Hari Kumar, Chief of Army Staff, General Manoj Pande, Defence Secretary, Giridhar Aramane, and Additional Secretary Defence Production, T Natarajan.

"My visit to India reflects the United Kingdom's belief that our security is indivisible from that of the wider world. As a global trading nation it matters to the UK that the Indo-Pacific is open and free, which is why the British Armed Forces are establishing the broadest and most integrated presence in the region of any European nation," said UK's CDS.

"India and the UK are natural partners in a world that is becoming more contested and volatile. We share many of the same democratic instincts and values and are both committed to the rule of law. We are respected military powers, both undergoing significant investment and modernisation, and exercising together across, land, sea and air," Radakin said.

Radakin is on a three-day visit to India and began his trip by paying homage to the fallen soldiers at the National War Memorial this morning, ahead of his first meeting with his Indian counterpart, General Anil Chauhan.

Over the next two days, Admiral Radakin will be hosted by various establishments of the Indian Armed Forces across the country, with a view to boosting military-to-military engagement and exploring opportunities around the co-creation of future technologies.

The UK and India are natural partners in defence and share a strong and enduring relationship, including collaboration in research, development and training.

Following the signing of an updated Memorandum of Understanding in 2019, discussions around industrial collaboration in the aerospace sector have progressed, with the UK's Minister for Defence Procurement visiting in February and the First Sea Lord visiting in March.

"India is a valued defence partner for the UK and our relationship continues to flourish across our research and industrial sectors. Both our nations are committed to the stability and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific and we continue to train and operate alongside our Indian partners to promote security in the region," said Ben Wallace, UK's Defence Secretary.

In recent weeks, HMS Lancaster visited Kochi to train alongside the Indian Navy as part of Exercise Konkan, while five Mirage 2000 fighters were flown by Indian Air Force pilots in the Royal Air Force's largest aerial exercise in the UK - Exercise Cobra Warrior.

Later this month, soldiers from the Indian Army will deploy to the UK to take part in Exercise Ajeya Warrior, training alongside the British Army.

The visit of CDS also coincides with the visit of the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) of the Royal Air Force, Air Chief Marshal Sir Mike Wigston. The visit of two of the senior-most officers of the UK's armed forces exemplifies the importance with which the UK holds its defence and security partnership with India.

(With inputs from ANI)
Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar on Monday stated that India and Russia are currently engaged in talks to address payment-related concerns that need to be resolved.

During the India-Russia Business Dialogue, Jaishankar discussed the expansion of the correspondent relationship network for International Trade Settlement in Indian Rupees through the Special Rupee Vostro Account system.

"There are also discussions on the payments issue. The expansion of the correspondent relationship network, under the scheme of International Trade Settlement in Indian Rupees through the Special Rupee Vostro Account system. And I think the payments issue clearly needs to be worked through between our systems. It is something we will also be discussing at the meeting tomorrow," Jaishankar said.

A vostro account is a bank account held by a domestic bank for a foreign bank, denominated in the domestic currency of the former. The Rupee Vostro Account specifically holds the foreign entity's deposits in Indian rupees at the Indian bank.

This type of banking is an essential part of correspondent banking, which involves a bank or an intermediary carrying out wire transfers, business transactions, depositing funds, and collecting documents on behalf of another bank.

It enables domestic banks to access foreign financial markets and serve international clients without having to establish a physical presence abroad.

Earlier on April 2, public sector lender, Union Bank of India becomes the first bank in the country to open a Special Rupee Vostro Account through its corresponding bank in Malaysia i.e. India International Bank of Malaysia.

This means that trade between India and Malaysia can now be settled in the Indian rupee, in addition to the current modes of settlement in other currencies.

Earlier in March, Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) Santosh Kumar Sarangi had said that HDFC Bank and UCO Bank are among the several banks that have opened nearly 30 special vostro accounts to enable cross-border trade in Indian rupees.

In 2022, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the finance ministry instructed senior management of banks and trade bodies to promote import and export transactions in Indian rupees.

They urged banks to establish special rupee vostro accounts in collaboration with their foreign counterparts to facilitate cross-border trade in Indian currency, as opposed to using the US dollar which is currently the more popular mode of transaction.

(With inputs from agencies)
An Indigo flight which took off from Mumbai airport suffered a tail strike while landing at Nagpur airport. As per news agency ANI, the incident occurred on 14 April 2023 on flight 6E-203 from Mumbai-Nagpur.

As per statement released by IndiGo, the aircraft was declared grounded at Nagpur airport for assessment and repairs. The airline further updated that no injuries were reported during the incident.

"On 14th April 2023, flight 6E 203, from Mumbai had a tail strike while landing at Nagpur. The aircraft was declared grounded at Nagpur airport for assessment and repairs. The incident is being investigated in detail," IndiGo said in a statement.

Flight 6E 203 from Mumbai had a tail strike while landing at Nagpur on 14th April. The aircraft was declared grounded at Nagpur airport for assessment and repairs. The incident is being investigated: IndiGo pic.twitter.com/bcRj049dgs  ANI (@ANI) April 18, 2023

A tail strike occurs when the tail or empennage of an aircraft hits the ground or any other stationary object during take-off or landing.

Earlier on 15 April, an IndiGo plane enroute to West Bengal's Bagdogra returned to Delhi due to a technical problem. A source told PTI that the aircraft made an emergency landing due to a technical problem, IndiGo said the flight 6E 6282 from Delhi to Bagdogra returned to Delhi as a precaution. "The pilot noticed a technical issue and requested a turn back. The aircraft landed safely and is undergoing necessary inspection. An alternate aircraft was provided for the passengers to be flown to Bagdogra," IndiGo said in a statement.

Prior to that on 4 April, a Varanasi-bound IndiGo flight had to make an emergency landing at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) at Shamshabad in Telangana, due to a technical problem. Responding to the emergency landing of the Varanasi -bound flight, the airlines said that the flight was diverted to Hyderabad as a 'precaution'.

(With inputs from ANI)
Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra has slammed the central and Gujarat governments for not producing files in court regarding the release of 11 convicts in the Bilkis Bano case, who were accused of rape and murder. Moitra said the governments were in contempt and deliberately delaying the case.

I was in SC today & listened to both Union of India & State of Gujarat cite privelege & refuse to share Bilkis killers remission files (in contempt of court) .



The privelege of protecting sanskari gang rapists & killers.

The privelege of thumbing a nose at the law.  Mahua Moitra (@MahuaMoitra) April 18, 2023

The Supreme Court heard pleas filed by Bano and others challenging the premature release of the convicts. It said the situation of Bilkis Bano, who was gang-raped and her family members murdered during the 2002 Godhra riots, could not be compared to a single murder case, and unequals could not be treated equally. The bench of Justices KM Joseph and BV Nagarathna observed that the crime was "horrendous."

The court questioned the Gujarat government about the reasons for allowing the premature release of the convicts, stating that when remission is considered in such heinous crimes affecting society at large, the power must be exercised keeping public interest in mind. The apex court observed that just because the central government concurred with the state did not mean the state was not required to apply its mind. The bench asked for the reasons behind the decision and the basis of the materials used to make it.

"The question is whether government applied its mind, what material formed the basis of its decision, etc. Law is clear. Just because Union has approved does not mean state not required to apply mind. What material formed the basis of this decision? They were released by executive order... Today it is this lady (Bilkis). Tomorrow, it can be you or me. There must be objective standards... If you don't give us reason, we will draw our own conclusions," theof Justices KM Joseph and BV Nagarathna observed.

The Gujarat government had defended the remission granted to the convicts, saying they had completed 14 years in prison and their behavior was found to be good. The government had released the 11 convicts, who were sentenced to life imprisonment, on August 15, 2022, as per the remission policy prevalent in Gujarat at the time of their conviction in 2008.

(With inputs from agencies)
As the conflict in Sudan escalates and 31 Indians from Karnataka remain stranded in the African country, the Indian mission has warned about the instances of looting. In an advisory, the mission has warned the Indians to ration the supplies and not venture out unnecessarily. The warning comes as the military conflict in the country between the Army and Para-military is escalating with the death toll crossing 185 including one Indian national.

We have come across many instances of looting. All Indian nationals are advised please not to venture out. Please ration your supplies. The situation may continue for a few more days. Please try to take help from your neighbours. Please stay at home and remain safe," India is Sudan said in an advisory.

Advisory



We have come across many instances of looting. All Indian nationals are advised please not to venture out. Please ration your supplies. The situation may continue for a few more days. Please try to take help from your neighbours. Please stay at home and remain safe  India in Sudan (@EoI_Khartoum) April 18, 2023

At least one Indian national is killed while 31 people from Karnataka remain stuck in the country as the violence broke out early Saturday after weeks of power struggle between Army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his deputy, Mohamed Hamdan Daglo who heads the heavily-armed RSF.

Karnataka Congress leader Siddaramaiah has urged the BJP-led Centre and state government to intervene and facilitate the safe return of the people from the state stranded in Sudan.

It is reported that 31 people from Karnataka belonging to the Hakki Pikki tribe, are stranded in Sudan which is troubled by civil war. I urge PMO India, HMO India, MEA India, and BS Bommai to immediately intervene & ensure their safe return," Siddaramaiah tweeted on Tuesday.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has established a control room to provide assistance and information about the Indians stuck in Sudan.

In view of the current situation in Sudan, a Control Room has been set up at the Ministry of External Affairs to provide information and assistance." The ministry further shared the Coordinates of the Control Room, email, and phone numbers for information on Indians stuck in Sudan. "Phone: 1800 11 8797 (Toll-free) 91-11-23012113; 91-11-23014104; 91-11-23017905; Mobile: 91 9968291988 and Email: situationroom@mea.gov.in," the ministry said in the release.

Read More: Blinken warns Sudan's warring generals after US convoy faces fire
Supreme Court begins hearing arguments on the validation of same-sex marriage in India. The five-judge constitution bench of the apex court heard a clutch of petitions as it calls it a "seminal" issue of great importance.

The central government has opposed gay marriage rights and said the matter should be legislated by Parliament and not decided by the courts. Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led central government reiterated that deciding on issues touching upon human relations such as marriage is essentially a legislative function."

India decriminalized homosexuality in 2018 but has yet to extend family rights to the LGBTQ community.

The court proceedings will start shortly and will be closely watched globally that's because if the Supreme Court rules in favour of marriage equality then India will become the world's largest democracy to do so.

According to Pew Research, more than 30 countries across the globe have legalised same-sex marriage so far.

What did the CJI and other judges say on Day 2 of same-sex marriage hearing

On the second day of hearing the petitions demanding the legalisation of same-sex marriage in India

While hearing the legality of same-sex marriage in India, the Supreme Court on Wednesday observed that couples in a gay and lesbian relationship can still adopt children. The five-judge bench made the observations while hearing the matter for the second consecutive day and will resume the hearing on Thursday.

Same sex couple will raise a child with love, empathy and inherited grace, says Varun Grover

A kid raised by same sex couple will not be a product of a loveless marriage or greed for a son or pressure from elders, and will be raised with love, empathy and inherited grace, said lyricist and comedian Varun Grover while supporting the legalisation of same sex marriage.

How will a #samesexcouple raise a child? Definitely better than how a majority of the hetero couples raise theirs. These kids won't be the product of a loveless marriage or greed for a son or pressure from elders. They will be raised with love, empathy, and inherited grace," he tweeted on Wednesday.

"How will a #samesexcouple raise a child?"



Definitely better than how a majority of the hetero couples raise theirs. These kids won't be the product of a loveless marriage or greed for a son or pressure from elders. They will be raised with love, empathy, and inherited grace.    (@varungrover) April 18, 2023

Same sex marriage: Govt invokes dignity, cultural ethos in opposing legalisation. 10 updates

On the second day of the historic hearing for legalising same-sex marriage in India, the Supreme Court bench made significant remarks on the case. The apex court, on the second day of the hearing, was urged by the Indian government to use it's plenary powers, prestige and moral authority in taking a decision on legalising same-sex marriage. (Read full report here)

CJI Chandrachud faces backlash for notion of man, woman not absolute based on genitals

As India witnesses a historic judicial hearing on same-sex marriage live on YouTube, Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud is facing the rage of Twitterati over his remarks on gender. Many Twitter users are criticising the CJI for the observations he made during the first day of the hearing. On Tuesday, CJI Chandrachud said, Notion of a man and a woman is not an absolute based on genitals." The remark didn't sink well with Twitter users as they began to tweet against it with #cjidychandrachud hashtag. (Read full story here)

SC hearing on same-sex marriage ends for the day

SC bench hearing pleas on same-sex marriage has risen for the day. The second day of the hearing came to an end with Senior Advocate Singhvi presenting his arguments in the favour of the case. He will continue his submissions tomorrow as well.

Freedom of expression includes right to express ones gender,' Singhvi

Presenting arguments in the favour of same-sex marriage, Senior Advocate,AM Singhvi, appearing for one of the petitioners, said freedom of expression also encompasses the freedom or the right to express one's gender identity in all its manifestations.

Freedom of expression includes the freedom or the right to express one's gender identity in all its manifestations," he said.

Text evolves over time, even intent evolves over time, Singhvi

Text evolves over time, even intent evolves over time. Your lordship is looking not to strike down anything but to make it constitutionally compliant.

My client is a transgender, for her to be branded as urban elitist shows lack of grace, says Vishwanathan

The Supreme Court hearing the pleas on the legalisation of same-sex marriage resumed post lunch at 2:00 pm.

In a latest of the conversation, Senior Advocate KV Vishwanathan, mentioned his client who is a transgender, and was disowned by the family. His client was also forced to beg on streets and was later to rise above their struggle to become director in KPMG. He called the perception of urban elitist' as an act of lack of grace.

"My client is transgender, was disowned by the family, begged on the streets, and today she is director in KPMG- all by herself. For her to be branded an "urban elitist" shows absolute lack of grace," he said.

Notion of man, woman not based on genitals, says SC on legal validation of same-sex marriage

The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday heard pleas seeking legal validation for same-sex marriages. The five-judge constitution bench headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud that they would not consider personal marriage laws while deciding the case. However, lawyers were asked to present arguments on the Special Marriage Act. (Read full report here)

Hearing on same-sex marriage petitions over for today, resume tomorrow

The judicial hearing on petitions on same-sex marriage was over on Tuesday and will begin tomorrow with the address of Mukul Rohatgi for around 30 more minutes.

When you deny me the right of marriage, you deny me citizenship Mukul Rohatgi

Giving sharp comments on denial of marriage to LGBTQ community, Mukul Rohatgi said that denial of the right of marriage, means denial of citizenship. When citizenship is denied, it indicates that the person is of no good and not equal to a citizen under preamble.

When you deny me the right of marriage, you deny me citizenship. If you deny me citizenship, you are saying you're no good, you're not equal to a citizen under preamble so you stay where you are," he said.

'Settlement includes education, vocation, and even marriage.We must have it too' Mukul Rohatgi

Talking about the idea of settlement in society, Mukul Rohatgi said every parent wants their child to be settled. One of the aspects of settlement is marriage, family. This is the main reason why LGBTQ community must have this right too.

In the Indian society, every parent wants their child to be settled. One of the aspects of settlement is not only to choose your education and vocation but also marriage, family. So we must have it too. I request this court to grant it to us," he said.

He also added that the argument can't be left in the hands of parliament because it is about fundamental rights.

His argument cannot be raised that leave it to parliament, because your lordships are the protector of fundamental rights," he said.

Reservations were introduced because there was inequality

Adding another point in the favour of same-sex marriage, Mukul Rohatgi reminded the bench of reservations. He stated that reservations were introduced because there were inequality for various reasons. In response, state gave affirmative action to bring them up so as to be at par.

Yes. Take the example of reservations. Why were they introduced? There was inequality for various reasons. State gave affirmative action to bring them up so as to be at par," said Mukul Rohatgi

"In a sense privacy is an individual concept, which allows you to get to the core of your being' CJI DY Chandrachud

Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, said Each of us are social individuals and therefore for society to assert that we'll leave you alone, we will deny you the recognition of those social relationships which go to the fulfillment of life. That according to you is wrong."

I can't be criminalized but the stigmatisation continues,"Rohatgi on same-sex marriage

Speaking on stigma around the LGBTQ community, Mukul Rohatgi said, I can't be criminalized but the stigmatisation continues."

He also added that he is not reinventing the wheel-it's all here. He also said that he is only putting it together because there was no question of marriage in those cases

Procreation, in today's scenario, can also include adoption, IVF, surrogacy- it need not only be procreation in one form,"he added.

Rohatgi:

I cannot be told that I should wait for parliament to grant me these rights when I'm dead and gone."

Last 70 years this court has been the guarantor of fundamental rights. It's noone's right to say that even if one man comes against this, you better wait for parliament. This court has never accepted this. 32 is itself a fundamental right."

You are not equal, be happy with 377 judgement, Mukul Rohatgi

Criticising the other side, Mukul Rohatgi said, The other side is talking as if this is 1920s or 30s and they're saying you're not equal, be happy with the 377 judgements, be happy with the rights you already have."

He also said that the people of LGBTQ community are still facing the disdain and stigma. He also recalled previous judgement made on LGBTQ rights. He also said that one's gender identity lies at the heart of their fundamental righ to dignity.

Mukul Rohatgi:

Recognition of one's gender identity lies at the heart of the fundamental right to dignity."

He also stated that the expression sex is not limited to biological sex of male or female, but also identify those people who consider themselves neither. He also cited the example of Anuj Garg vs hotel association of India.

He also said that both the gender and biological attributes contribute distinct components of sex.

Sam-sex marriage pleas: Highlights post lunch session

Mukul Rohatgi has been speaking in the favour of same-sex marriage against the bench at Supreme Court post-lunch session.

Rohatgi: "Secularism was held to be a part of basic structure in Bommai...In Ayodhya also we held that 1993 act was a part of basic structure."

Sometimes mindsets do not change. Parliament or the legislative assembly acts with more elactrity, sometimes with less."

Same-sex marriage pleas to be heard today: Here are key updates on this landmark SC hearing:

- Same-sex marriage court hearing highlights till 1 pm:

The hearing at Supreme Court began on a heated note on Tuesday with the Centre saying it will re-examine whether to participate in the proceedings or not.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the central government, told the bench that the issue raised by the Centre regarding the maintainability of the petitions should be heard first.

Subsequently, CJI Dy Chardachud rejected SG Mehta's request. Mehta said he raised the request saying that the issue falls within the domain of the parliament.

However, the CJI said the bench will hear the petitioners first to understand the broad issues canvassed.

After that, Mehta said, the Centre will ponder whether or not it wishes to participate in the case.

The Centre has opposed the clutch of petitions that have sought recognition of same-sex marriage under the law. According to the Centre's statement, living together as partners and having a sexual relationship with same-sex individuals is not comparable to the Indian family unit concept which involves a biological man and biological woman with children born out of such wedlock. Similar views are expressed by Jamiat-Ulama-I-Hind and National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR).

However, the Delhi Commission for Protection of Child Rights (DCPCR) has supported the case of the petitioners.

- Bench to resume hearing shortly.

-Rakesh Dwivedi:

Same-sex union has always existed but they were not given equality at part with heterosexual couples. They were never treated equally only if the court decides that they are equal.

- Tushar Mehta:

Today you are saying personal laws are not got into but the earlier judgment opened this window.So again this would open a window later.

-CJI:

But we cannot bind our future generations long after we are gone and turned to dust.

-Geeta Luthra:

With regards to the Citizenship act, the word "spouse" has been used in 2015 subsequent to all these legislations. So all that is required is that spouse means spouse.

-Tushar Mehta, Solicitor General:

It is restricted to the genitals I did not want to say this.

Please see the definitions in the transgender act. There is the definition of transgender etc. The question is not granting a socio-legal sanction etc, it has been clearly said no one shall discriminate against transgender persons including unfair treatment, and denial of employment, and here transgender includes LGBTQI, and not what we understand in the conventional sense.

-CJI:

The notion of biological man and biological woman is absolute. It is a question of genitals. The very notion of Special marriage act having man and woman is not restricted to the genitals

-Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul:

Sometimes incremental changes in issues of societal ramifications are better. There is time for everything. Therefore what was being suggested was- can we, for the time being, confine it only to limited issue, don't step into personal law issues.

-Abhishek Manu Singhvi:

On the canvas, there are two crucial words here marriage and persons. There are two categories of consequences- One is minor and major consequences of marriage.

Adoption according to me is crucial. So if the court holds marriage of same sex is legal but such a right is an empty shell. One is heterosexual marriage, and one is homosexual marriage. So one criterion is sex-based and if the court holds that same-sex marriage is valid, it does not mean that persons with all shades are included. The correct position will be to allow marriage between two consenting adults.

-Menaka Guruswamy:

The LGBTQ community is denied basic rights. Bank accounts, life insurance, etc everything is denied. I am not able to nominate my partner for life insurance. I cannot buy SCBA insurance for my family even though I am an SCBA member...Rights are protected when you protect your relationships...Day to day business of life is all these things and marriage gives a couple these bouquets of rights.

-Mukul Rohatgi:

The legislative drafting which was done 50-70 years ago cannot stop what I'm constitutionally entitled to get.

- Menaka Guruswamy:

Hindu Marriage Act is a statutory law and not personal law. There are elements of inter-caste marriage, etc which is not part of Hindu personal law.

- Mukul Rohatgi:

The law can't remain static. Law moves, society moves. Court will act when it is called upon to act. It will act whatever it can within its judicial parameters.

- Senior Advocate Mukul Rohatgi's key arguments in favour of legalisation of same-sex marriage:

We are getting older. We also want respectability of marriage. Today what is the position? These people- call them queer, gay- if they go to places, people look at them. That is a restriction, infringement of my right under Article 21.

Concept of marriage has changed over last 100 years. Earlier we had child marriages, temporary marriages, a person could marry any number of times - that also changed. There was a lot of protest to the new avatar of Hindu marriage act.

Constitution is a living document. The preamble says "equality, fraternity".

I have a sense of deja vu. Years ago, I opened the case in decriminalising 377 if we have the same rights as heterosexual groups, we have the same right to marry too.

- Rohatgi tells CJI DY Chandrachud, "I want to say that your lordships may broadly read 'spouse' in place of 'man and woman' or 'husband and wife'".

- There is no reason why once our rights are identical, we don't get this. That has been the development in the US and other states. We want a declaration that we have a right to marry, that right will be recognised by the State & will be registered under Special Marriage Act. Once that happens, society will accept us. The stigma will only go once the state recognises it. That will be full and final assimilation," Rohatgi added.

- Mukul Rohatgi tells Court, "We are persons who are of the same sex. We have, acc to us, the same rights under the constitution as a heterosexual group of society. Your Lordships have held that. The only stumbling block to our equal rights was 377. Criminality is now gone. The unnatural part or order of nature is gone from our statute. So therefore our rights are equal".

- Five-Judge constitution bench assembles at Supreme Court.

-Indian lawyer and former Congress leader raised a question on same-sex marriage minutes before the country's apex court is set to hear the pleas. Sibal asked, "Same-sex marriage. Supreme ready to hear. Is society ready to listen? Tough one!

Same-sex marriage



Supreme Court ready to hear

Is society ready to listen ?  Kapil Sibal (@KapilSibal) April 18, 2023

- The Kashmir Files director, Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri has said that same-sex marriage is a human need. He called it, "a need. It's a right".

NO. Same sex marriage is not an urban elitist concept. Its a human need. Maybe some sarkari elites drafted it who have never travelled in small towns & villages. Or Mumbai locals.



First, same sex marriage is not a concept. Its a need. Its a right.

And in a progressive, https://t.co/M4S3o5InXI  Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri (@vivekagnihotri) April 18, 2023

- Watch the landmark hearing on same-sex marriage here.

- Comedian/ Actor Vir Das backs legalisation of same-sex marriage.

Hoping our honourable SC legalises #samesexmarriage today   Vir Das (@thevirdas) April 18, 2023

- Senior Advocate Menaka Guruswamy and Advocate Arundhati Katju, LGBTQ icons and lawyers representing the petitioners in the same-sex marriage tweets, "With the Constitution in our hearts, we go back to our court, for complete equality, full dignity and freedom worthy of our citizenship".

With the Constitution in our hearts, we go back to our court, for complete equality, full dignity and freedom worthy of our citizenship. #marriageequality #supremecourt @arundhatikatju  Menaka Guruswamy (@MenakaGuruswamy) April 18, 2023

- The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has also moved the Supreme Court against the legalisation of same-sex marriages.

The child rights body argued that children raised by same-sex parents may have a limited exposure to the traditional gender role models.

The petition has referred to studies on adoption by same-sex parents which, it claimed, show that such a child gets affected both socially and psychologically.

- Calling an 'alien concept', Akhil Bhartiya Sant Samiti has also opposed same-sex marriage.

"The concept of same-sex marriage is alien to our society and it is liable to be rejected in toto," Akhil Bhartiya Sant Samiti said in the Intervention Application through its general secretary Swami Jeetendranand Sarswatee.

- Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) has also backed the Central government's stance against same-sex marriage. The RSS said that such unions should only exist between two people from opposite genders.

- Indian Psychiatric Society (IPS) has extended its support for same-sex marriage, adoption, and equal rights in India.

The IPS- an umbrella body of psychiatrists in the country with close to 8,000 members- reiterated in its statement that homosexuality is a variant of normal sexuality and not an illness and also said that like every citizen of India, members of the LGBTQIA+ community should be treated equally.

- The petitioners have challenged the constitutionality of pertinent provisions of the Hindu Marriage Act, Foreign Marriage Act and Special Marriage Act, and other marriage laws on the ground that they deny same-sex couples the right to marry.

- The Supreme Court is seized of a clutch of at least 15 petitions demanding legal recognition for same-sex marriages in the country.

-The Central government has buttressed its stand that the petitions before the court reflect urban elitist views for the purpose of social acceptance".

- A bench of Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and justices S K Kaul, S Ravindra Bhat, P S Narasimha and Hima Kohli will hear the petitions which were referred to a larger bench for an authoritative pronouncement on 13 March.

- A five-judge Constitution bench of SC to commence hearing on petitions seeking legal validation of same-sex marriages.
The Supreme Court has commenced hearing arguments regarding the validity of same-sex marriage in India. The apex court's five-judge constitution bench called the issue "seminal" and of great importance. The central government opposes same-sex marriage rights and asserts that the matter should be legislated by Parliament rather than decided by the courts.

Author Devdutt Pattanaik, who came out as gay after the decriminalisation of homosexuality in India, tweeted an observation that Apple CEO Tim Cook, who is gay, launched an Apple store in India on the day when the Supreme Court was hearing the same-sex marriage case.

Interesting that Tim Cook, a gay CEO, launches Apple store in India when SC is hearing same-sex marriage case. Coincidence?  Devdutt Pattanaik (@devduttmyth) April 18, 2023

The Central government's comments that same-sex marriage is an urban eligist concept" were met with criticism, including from filmmaker Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri, who tweeted that same-sex marriage is not an "urban elitist" concept but a human need and a right.

NO. Same sex marriage is not an urban elitist concept. Its a human need. Maybe some sarkari elites drafted it who have never travelled in small towns & villages. Or Mumbai locals.



First, same sex marriage is not a concept. Its a need. Its a right.

And in a progressive, https://t.co/M4S3o5InXI  Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri (@vivekagnihotri) April 18, 2023

Comedian Vir Das expressed hope that the Supreme Court legalizes same-sex marriage.

Madam, loving another human being is the most normal thing in the world. I'm not sure whether your problem is homosexuality, or tourism, or both 

Straight or gay, in my experience, if you let two people get married, that leads to WAY less roaming around. https://t.co/pxsIZ0PrSM  Vir Das (@thevirdas) April 18, 2023

Filmmaker and LGBTQ activist Onir tweeted about the importance of the day and urged people to create a more inclusive world.

Good morning beautiful people. Today at 1pm the Supreme Court of India starts its deliberation on same sex marriage. An important day for our lives &struggle for equal rights .Be with us to create a more beautiful inclusive world#EqualityIsNonNegotiablehttps://t.co/fZvU9QKnT6  iamOnir (@IamOnir) April 18, 2023

Venture capitalist Tehseen Poonawala commented that the right to marry a consenting adult is a fundamental right under Article 21.

The right to marry a consenting adult is a FUNDAMENTAL RIGHT under Article 21, the umbrella of all FUNDAMENTAL Rights & society cannot take away this right. May the Hon'ble SC uphold the right & liberty of our LGBTQ community under the spl marriage act !#SameSexMarriage.  Tehseen Poonawalla Official  (@tehseenp) April 18, 2023

Here are some of the other Twitter reactions:

There is no scientific data that suggests that queer folks can not be good parents, says experts countering the solicitor generals arguments against the legalisation of same sex marriage and adoption. @the_hindu https://t.co/1BlkrVnUfZ pic.twitter.com/vlGLJ7lzKX  Alisha (@AlishaDutta_AD) April 10, 2023

friendly reminder that Homosexuality in India has never been a 'western idea' many ancient books, writings and sculptures embedded on temples depict the existence of homosexuality and same sex marriage !! I really hope the SC legalises #SameSexMarriage in India  m (@dn4remus) April 18, 2023

Never imagined that in just 4.5 years after decriminalisation SC'll be hearing matter related to marriage.



If #SameSexMarriage legalised then India will be first UN member from Asia to do so. With 1.5 B population of country, that would be a milestone for Queer Rights in world. pic.twitter.com/vizTOR1QfH  Pranav (@little_curious1) April 18, 2023

Meanwhile, there has been an online campaign against same-sex marriage, with some Twitter users sharing identical posts suggesting that it will negatively impact the family ecosystem and that it is not a part of Indian culture but rather a Western concept.

Several countries around the world have legalized same-sex marriage. The Netherlands was the first country to do so in 2001, followed by Belgium, Canada, Spain, and South Africa. Other countries that have legalized same-sex marriage include Norway, Sweden, Portugal, Iceland, Argentina, Denmark, France, Brazil, New Zealand, Uruguay, Ireland, the United States, Colombia, and Germany.

In some countries, same-sex marriage is legal in some regions or states, but not in others. It's worth noting that while same-sex marriage is becoming more widely accepted, there are still many countries where it is illegal and members of the LGBTQ+ community face discrimination and persecution.
Indian cricket superstar Virat Kohli has been fined 10% of his match fee for breaching the Indian Premier League (IPL) Code of Conduct during Royal Challengers Bangalore's recent match against Chennai Super Kings. Kohli, who scored just six runs, was found guilty of breaching Article 2.2 of the code.

While details of the incident in question have not been revealed, it is thought that Kohli's reaction to the dismissal of CSK's Shivam Dube may have been the cause of the breach. Dube had played a blistering innings, scoring 52 runs from just 27 balls as CSK posted a formidable total of 226/6, which proved too much for RCB to chase.

Kohli's punishment was confirmed in a statement from the IPL, which also revealed that the batsman had accepted the Level 1 offence charge. Under the IPL's disciplinary regulations, a match referee's decision in relation to Level 1 breaches is final and binding.

The IPL match between former champions Mumbai Indians (MI) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the Wankhede Stadium was marred by an unsightly altercation between stand-in KKR skipper Nitish Rana and MI bowler Hrithik Shokeen. Both players were found guilty of breaching the IPL's Code of Conduct and reprimanded after the match.

Kohli's wife, Bollywood actor Anushka Sharma, was in attendance at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Sharma was caught on camera admiring the support for CSK skipper MS Dhoni and commenting "they love him" while seated with RCB officials.

Despite the setback, RCB's campaign continues, with their next fixture against Punjab Kings in Mohali on April 20. The team will be looking to bounce back from their defeat to CSK and continue their push for a playoff spot.

Having lost three of their five matches so far, RCB is placed at number seven right below KKR, with a net run rate of -0.318.
Baljeet Kaur, a prominent Indian woman climber, was found alive on Tuesday, a day after she went missing near Camp IV of Mt Annapurna while descending from the summit point. Baljeet Kaur had successfully scaled the world's 10th-highest peak without using supplemental oxygen on Monday, but was left alone below the summit point and remained out of radio contact until she managed to send a radio signal asking for immediate help.

An aerial search team located Baljeet Kaur above Camp IV, and efforts were initiated to conduct a long-line rescue to airlift her from the high camp, according to Pasang Sherpa, Chairman at Pioneer Adventure. We are preparing to conduct a long-line rescue to airlift her from above the high camp," he was quoted as saying.

Pasang Sherpa said that Baljeet Kaur had been seen descending alone towards Camp IV by the aerial search team, and her GPS location indicated an altitude of 7,375m (24,193ft).

She had climbed Mt Annapurna along with two Sherpa guides at around 5:15 pm on Monday. At least three helicopters were mobilised to trace her.

Kaur, who hails from Himachal Pradesh, made history in May last year when she scaled Mt Lhotse and became the first Indian climber to have climbed four 8000-meter peaks in a single season. Her recent successful ascent of Mt Annapurna further solidifies her reputation as a skilled and accomplished climber.

Anurag Malu from Rajasthan was reported missing while descending from Camp III, and it was later discovered that he had fallen from 6,000m into a crevasse while descending from Camp IV, resulting in his death.

Mingma Sherpa, chairman at Seven Summit Treks, said Noel Hanna, the first person from Ireland to reach the summit of K2 during the winter season, breathed his last in Camp IV last night.

(With agency inputs)
India is preparing an overhaul of its direct tax laws to replace a byzantine matrix of rules and help Prime Minister Narendra Modi reduce widening income inequality if he returns to power next year, according to people with knowledge of the matter.

At the heart of the rework is changes in capital gains taxes that Modis administration believes benefit the nations wealthy, the people said, asking not to be identified as the details are private. For instance, while India levies a tax of as much as 30% on income, it taxes gains on certain asset classes such as equity funds and stocks at a lower rate.

This isnt progressive and goes against the principle of equity, said one of the people. A panel may be appointed to build on proposals submitted to the Finance Ministry in 2019 with an eye to implement in 2024, though no final decisions have been made, the people added.

A Finance Ministry spokesman didnt immediately respond to an email seeking comments.

Indias reliance on indirect taxes  levies on consumption  rather than direct taxes on capital is often cited by economists as the main culprit behind the countrys poor getting left behind even as the nation minted 70 new millionaires each day between 2018 and 2022. Oxfam International estimates the top 10% of Indias population holds 77% of national wealth and government data show about 6% pay income tax.

Leaders around the world are trying to narrow income gaps, from China President Xi Jinpings common prosperity" program to US President Joe Bidens proposal of higher taxes for the wealthiest.

Modi, who came to power with the strongest mandate in three decades on a platform pledging dignity for the poor, has often been accused of policies that favor the rich. Boosting living standards across the population is also key for India to market itself as a consumer destination that global businesses should target.

An overhaul of the six-decade-old income tax law was first proposed under Modis predecessor in 2009 but successive governments have failed to complete it. While India has tweaked some tax rates and exemptions for individuals and companies, it is still trying to address some other issues such as standardizing the tax rates on capital gains.

The government tried to address this issue partially in the recent budget by taxing debt funds at the income tax rate.

With a new direct taxes code, the government is also looking to replace Indias complicated tax system with a simpler law to draw in companies looking to shift their operations out of China amid growing tensions between Washington and Beijing. More importantly, it could help burnish Indias credentials as an investment destination after companies such as Vodafone Group Plc and Cairn Energy Plc challenged tax decisions in courts in the past.

A new direct taxes law would complete the Modi governments tax overhaul push after it replaced multiple indirect taxes with a goods and services tax in 2017, transforming India into a single unified market.
The Bismarck Public School Board has voted unanimously to not renew the contract of Wachter Middle School Assistant Principal Beth Jeide for the 2023-24 school year, but the reasons are unclear.

The action came Monday night following a lengthy executive session that was closed to the public. The decision "was the culmination of an extensive internal investigation process, BPS spokesman Steve Koontz said. The school district has not commented on the results of that investigation.

Jeide will finish out her current contract, which runs to the end of the school year.

She was reassigned to Hughes Education Center in January while the investigation at Wachter ensued. The probe is not related to staff or student safety, according to Koontz.

Police also have investigated. Lt. Luke Gardiner on Monday denied a Tribune request for a police report, saying, "That case is active and pending with the States Attorney's Office."

Court records show no active criminal or civil cases filed against Jeide. North Dakota's Education Standards and Practices Board, which licenses teachers, has not received any complaints about Jeide, according to Licensure Specialist Amy Bigelow.

Jeide put out a statement on Facebook on March 22, saying she asked the district to send out a notification to families and staff in regard to her reassignment.

I do support the current investigations that are going on at Wachter Middle School and do believe a lot of positive change will come from all of this. I am looking forward to my return to Wachter as I very much miss the staff, students and families of WMS, Jeide wrote in the post.

She did not provide details on the investigation. Neither she nor her attorney commented to the Tribune on Monday night.

Jeide has been an assistant principal at Wachter since the fall of 2005. Before that she filled several roles including principal at Milnor Public School, and taught English in Montana.
Ernst & Young (EY) has revealed that it will cut 5% of its workforce from the US arm, which will affect around 3,000 employees. The decision comes after the company dropped plans to separate its audit and consulting divisions due to objections from the US executive committee. The layoffs are reportedly due to economic conditions, strong employee retention rates, and overcapacity in certain parts of the company. The consulting business will bear the brunt of the cuts.

"After assessing the impact of current economic conditions, strong employee retention rates and overcapacity in parts of our firm, we have made the difficult business decision to separate approximately 3,000 US employees, representing less than five percent of our US workforce," said an EY spokesperson.

EY had been attempting to attract partners for several months before calling off the proposed overhaul. The plan aimed to tackle regulatory concerns regarding potential conflicts of interest. EY is one of the "Big Four" accounting firms, and the other three companies, KPMG, Deloitte and PricewaterhouseCoopers, are also laying off staff due to the economic downturn.

The wave of layoffs across Corporate America is largely attributed to the Federal Reserve's quantitative tightening. Accenture is cutting 19,000 jobs, or approximately 2.5% of its staff globally. Meanwhile, McKinsey is reportedly cutting 1,400 roles, or 3% of its employees.

The Financial Times first reported the EY cuts and highlighted that they would primarily affect the consulting side of the business. The newspaper also reported that cost cuts were being planned in the UK as a result of the failed breakup plan.

EY proposed the split as a way to address regulatory scrutiny regarding conflicts of interest between the audit and consulting arms. However, the plan was abandoned after US teams raised objections over how to structure the breakup.

Also Read: EY breakup plan stalled on partners split

Rosanna Lander, the firm's UK head of public relations, confirmed that the announcement was specific to EY in the US and that there were no similar plans in the UK, as per the BBC. The layoffs will be a disappointment to affected employees and are likely to have a significant impact on the company's operations in the consulting sector, which is a key component of EY's business.

(With agency inputs)
New Delhi: The trilateral India-Brazil-South Africa forum is likely to receive increased diplomatic focus, according to persons aware of the matter. The IBSA forum, which was established in the early 2000s as a means to strengthen cooperation among three key emerging economies, is seen to have become dormant in recent years.

Between 2011 and 2022, the forum has held only four trilateral ministerial commission meetings. The latest took place in September 2022, when senior ministers of the three countries met in New York. India was represented by external affairs minister S. Jaishankar.

However, a meeting of their heads of state or government has not taken place since 2011. The IBSAMAR military exercise, which brings together the navies of the three countries, was held in October 2022 after a gap of over four years. A novel format, bringing together the national security advisers of the three countries, has only seen one meeting, in 2021.

Queries to the foreign ministries of India, Brazil and South Africa remained unanswered at press time.

The persons cited above stated that members, particularly Brazil, saw the grouping as dormant and will push for its revival as a key diplomatic priority. Brazil holds the rotating chair of the grouping, which will celebrate its 20th anniversary this year.

The Brazilian presidency will seek to strengthen IBSA in its three pillars: political coordination, trilateral cooperation and cooperation with other developing countries, through the IBSA Fund," according to the IBSA forum website.

The matter was raised during Brazilian foreign minister Mauro Vieiras bilateral meeting with Jaishankar during the G20 foreign ministers meeting in March.

According to the persons cited above, New Delhi responded positively to Brazils overtures. IBSAessentially BRICS minus Russia and Chinahas helped amplify developing country views on climate change, global health and multilateral reforms, and disbursed $44 million in development funding for 34 countries.
KHARTOUM (SUDAN) : Fighting raged in Sudan on Tuesday hours after an internationally brokered truce was supposed to have come into effect, as forces loyal to dueling generals battled for key locations in the capital and accused each other of violating the cease-fire.

The humanitarian truce came after days of intense efforts by top diplomats on four continents and had raised hopes of sparing Africa's third largest country from civil war. But each side still appeared determined to vanquish the other, despite the suffering of millions of civilians trapped by the fighting.

Residents said they still heard gunfire and explosions in different parts of the capital, Khartoum, particularly around the militarys headquarters and the Republican Palace. They said few people had ventured out, though there were crowds outside some bakeries.

The fighting remains underway," Atiya Abdulla Atiya of the Sudan Doctors Syndicate told The Associated Press. We are hearing constant gunfire."

Sudanese in the capital and in other cities have been hiding in their homes, caught in the crossfire as rival forces pounded residential areas with artillery and airstrikes and engaged in gunbattles outside. Residents say dead bodies in the streets are unreachable because of clashes, with the toll likely to be far higher than the 185 dead reported by the U.N. since fighting began Saturday.

The conflict between the armed forces, led by Gen. Abdel Fattah Burhan, and a paramilitary group known as the Rapid Support Forces, led by Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, has once again derailed Sudan's transition to democratic rule after decades of dictatorship and civil war.

Pro-democracy groups and political parties had recently reached an agreement with the two generals  who jointly led a 2021 coup  but it was never signed and is now in tatters.

The RSF immediately accused the military of violating the cease-fire after it came into effect at 6 p.m. local time (1600 GMT). The army said the rebellious militia" continued its attacks around the military headquarters and launched a failed attack on a military base to the south.

Atiya said the Fadil Hospital in Khartoum was hit by shelling after the truce took effect, damaging a medical gas pipeline and water systems. Its one of at least 12 hospitals in and around the capital that have been forced to shut down because of the fighting, out of a total of around 20.

The U.S. Embassy said late Tuesday that there has been ongoing" fighting in Khartoum and surrounding areas, and advised Americans in Sudan to shelter in place. It said there were no immediate plans for a government-coordinated evacuation.

Over the past day, fighters in Khartoum attacked a U.S. Embassy convoy and stormed the home of the EU envoy to Sudan, though neither attack caused casualties. The convoy of clearly marked U.S. Embassy vehicles was attacked Monday, and preliminary reports link the assailants to the RSF, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters.

Blinken spoke by phone late Monday separately with both generals, seeking a 24-hour halt in fighting as a foundation for a longer truce and return to negotiations. Egypt, which backs the Sudanese military, and Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, which have close ties to the RSF, have also been calling on all sides to stand down.

Dagalo said in a series of tweets Tuesday that he had approved a 24-hour humanitarian truce after speaking to Blinken. The military initially said the coming hours would bring the crushing defeat" of the RSF and only publicly committed to the truce after it began.

Shortly before the start of the cease-fire, a coalition of political parties and pro-democracy groups said it received positive positions" from leaders of the military and the RSF on the daylong humanitarian pause. It said in a statement that discussions were underway to solidify that truce."

More tanks and armored vehicles belonging to the military rolled into Khartoum early Tuesday, heading toward the militarys headquarters and the Republican Palace, residents said. During the night, fighter jets swooped overhead and anti-aircraft fire lit up the sky.

Each side already has tens of thousands of troops distributed around Khartoum and the city of Omdurman on the opposite bank of the Nile River. Terrified residents trapped in their homes for days have hoped for a halt long enough at least to get supplies or move to safer areas. The fighting erupted suddenly at the start of the last week of the Islamic holy month of fasting, Ramadan.

We are trying to take advantage of Ramadan to try to continue our faith and prayer," said Mohammed Al Faki, one of 89 students and staffers trapped in the engineering building at Khartoum University. "We are trying to help each other stay patient until this crisis is over."

One student was killed by a sniper, he said, and they buried his body on the campus. The students and staff have had to go out for supplies occasionally, risking harassment by RSF fighters battling troops nearby, he said.

They are attacking us on the streets. They are looting. If you are walking, they will take even your phone from you in the street," the 19-year-old student said of the RSF.

U.N. figures have put the toll from fighting at more than 185 dead and 1,800 wounded, without providing a breakdown of civilians and combatants. The Sudan Doctors Syndicate said Tuesday that at least 144 civilians were killed and more than 1,400 wounded but that many dead could still not be reached to be counted.

Videos posted online Tuesday showed Souq al-Bahri, a large outdoor market in northern Khartoum, in flames from nearby clashes. Satellite images from Maxar Technologies taken Monday showed damage across Khartoum, including to security service buildings. Tanks stood guard at a bridge over the White Nile River and other locations.

Satellite images from Planet Labs PBC, also taken Monday, showed some 20 damaged civilian and military aircraft at Khartoum International Airport, which has a military section. Some had been completely destroyed, with one still belching smoke. At the El Obeid and Merowe air bases, north and south of Khartoum, several fighter jets were among the destroyed aircraft.

The European Unions foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, tweeted Monday that the EU ambassador to Sudan was assaulted in his own residency," without providing further details.

A Western diplomat in Cairo said the residence was ransacked by armed men in RSF uniforms. No one was hurt but the armed men stole several items, said the diplomat, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to talk to the media.

Early on Sunday, the Norwegian ambassadors residence was hit by a shell, causing damage but no injuries, Norwegian Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt said.

The fighting is the latest chapter in Sudan's turmoil since a popular uprising four years ago helped depose long-time autocrat Omar al-Bashir.

Burhan and Dagalo jointly orchestrated an October 2021 coup, derailing efforts to enshrine a civilian government. Both generals have a long history of human rights abuses, and their forces have cracked down on pro-democracy activists.

Under international pressure, Burhan and Dagalo recently agreed to a framework agreement with political parties and pro-democracy groups. But the signing was repeatedly delayed as tensions rose over the integration of the RSF into the armed forces and the future chain of command  tensions that exploded into violence Saturday. ___ Magdy reported from Cairo. Associated Press writers Fay Abuelgasim in Beirut, Jon Gambrell in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and Matthew Lee in Karuizawa, Japan, contributed to this report.
Fighting between the army and paramilitaries in Sudan has killed around 200 people and wounded 1,800, damaging hospitals and hampering aid on Monday after three days of urban warfare.

A weeks-long power struggle exploded into deadly violence Saturday between the forces of two generals who seized power in a 2021 coup, Sudan's army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his deputy, Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who commands the powerful paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Analysts say the fighting in the capital of the chronically unstable country is unprecedented and could be prolonged, despite regional and global calls for a ceasefire as diplomats mobilise.

The European Union's ambassador to Sudan was attacked in his home in the city on Monday, the bloc's top diplomat Josep Borrell said. A spokesperson told AFP the veteran diplomat was "OK" following the assault.

"Security of diplomatic premises and staff is a primary responsibility of Sudanese authorities and an obligation under international law," Borrell said.

Battles have taken place throughout the vast country, and there are fears of regional spillover.

Terrified residents of the capital are spending the last and holiest days of Ramadan watching from their windows as tanks roll through the streets, buildings shake, and smoke from fires triggered by the fighting hangs in the air.

The conflict has seen air strikes, artillery and heavy gunfire.

Those compelled to venture out face queues for bread and petrol at outlets which are not shuttered. Residents are also dealing with power outages.

Volker Perthes, the head of the United Nations mission to Sudan, told the Security Council in a closed-door session that at least 185 people have been killed and another 1,800 wounded.

"It's a very fluid situation so it's very difficult to say where the balance is shifting to," Perthes told reporters after the meeting.

Earlier Monday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres again called on Sudan's warring parties to "immediately cease hostilities". He warned that further escalation "could be devastating for the country and the region."

Vital aid suspended

Medics in Sudan had earlier given a death toll of nearly 100 civilians and "dozens" of fighters from both sides, but the number of casualties was thought to be far higher, with many wounded unable to reach hospitals.

The official doctors' union warned fighting had "heavily damaged" multiple hospitals in Khartoum and other cities, with some completely "out of service".

The World Health Organization had already warned that several of Khartoum's nine hospitals tending to wounded civilians "have run out of blood, transfusion equipment, intravenous fluids and other vital supplies".

In the western region of Darfur, international medical aid organisation Doctors Without Borders (MSF) reported receiving 136 wounded patients at the only hospital in El Fasher still operating in North Darfur state.

"The majority of the wounded are civilians who were caught in the crossfire -- among them are many children," MSF's Cyrus Paye said.

Due to limited surgical capacity, "11 people died from their injuries in the first 48 hours of the conflict."

Three UN World Food Programme staff were also among those killed, on Saturday in Darfur, where humanitarian missions have had medical and other supplies looted, according to Save the Children and MSF.

A number of organisations have temporarily suspended operations in the country, where one-third of the population needs aid.

"This renewed fighting only aggravates what was already a fragile situation, forcing UN agencies and our humanitarian partners to temporarily shutter many of our more than 250 programmes across Sudan," said UN emergency relief coordinator Martin Griffiths.

- Trading blame -

Diplomatic manoeuvres seemed to ramp up on Monday, as the fighting showed no signs of abating.

Influential northern neighbour Egypt announced it had discussed with Saudi Arabia, South Sudan and Djibouti -- all close allies of Sudan -- "the need to make every effort to preserve stability and safety".

The Gulf emirate Qatar spoke to African Union commission head Moussa Faki Mahamat, who is planning to "immediately" undertake a ceasefire mission.

There are, however, no more civilian flights arriving in Khartoum, where fighting has damaged aircraft.

On Twitter Daglo called on the international community to intervene against Burhan, branding him a "radical Islamist who is bombing civilians from the air".

"We will continue to pursue Al-Burhan and bring him to justice," said Daglo, whose RSF and its predecessor the Janjaweed in Darfur have previously been accused of atrocities and war crimes.

Army statements call the RSF "a rebel militia" intent on "engaging near populated areas".

The fighting broke out after bitter disagreements between Burhan and Daglo over the planned integration of the RSF into the regular army -- a key condition for a final deal aimed at ending a crisis since the 2021 coup, which derailed a transition to democracy.

Both claim to be in control of key sites, including the airport and the presidential palace -- none of which could be independently verified.

On Monday, the army resumed broadcasting on state TV.

The few grocery stores remaining open warned they will only last a few days if no supplies can enter the city.

Witnesses noted militiamen had begun driving past in private passenger vehicles with no licence plates.

While Sudan has endured decades of bitter civil wars, coups and rebellions since independence, Sudanese analyst Kholood Khair said the level of fighting inside the capital was "unprecedented".

The generals' coup derailed a transition to civilian rule following the 2019 ouster of strongman Omar al-Bashir, triggering international aid cuts and sparking near-weekly protests met by a deadly crackdown.
Battle in Sudan continued for the third day on Tuesday as explosions and gunfire thundered outside the capital Khartoum and other cities.

According to the data by the United Nations, more than 200 people have been killed and more than 1,800 injured since the fighting erupted.

Reasons for battle in Sudan:

Tension had been building for months between Sudan's army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which together toppled a civilian government in an October 2021 coup.

The friction was brought to a head by an internationally-backed plan to launch a new transition with civilian parties. A final deal was due to be signed earlier in April, on the fourth anniversary of the overthrow of long-ruling autocrat Omar al-Bashir in a popular uprising.

Both the army and the RSF were required to cede power under the plan and two issues proved particularly contentious: one was the timetable for the RSF to be integrated into the regular armed forces, and the second was when the army would be formally placed under civilian oversight.

When fighting broke out on April 15, both sides blamed the other for provoking the violence.

WHO ARE THE MAIN PLAYERS:

The protagonists in the power struggle are General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, head of the army and leader of Sudan's ruling council since 2019, and his deputy on the council, RSF leader General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, commonly known as Hemedti.

US, UK urge 'immediate cessation of violence'

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said, "There is a shared deep concern about the fighting... the threat that poses to civilians, that it poses to the Sudanese nation and potentially poses even to the region".

"The immediate future lies in the hands of the generals who are engaged in this fight," Britain Secretary James Cleverly added.

"We call upon them to put peace first, to bring an end to the fighting, to get back to negotiations. That's what the people of Sudan want, that's what the people of Sudan deserve".

'Disappointed' by truce violations, says UN envoy to Sudan:

The UN chief in Sudan slammed the failure by both the army and rival paramilitary forces to stop fighting during an agreed humanitarian pause to evacuate the wounded.

United Nations Special Representative Volker Perthes said he was "extremely disappointed that humanitarian cessation of hostilities, that both the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces had committed to, was only partially honoured yesterday".

Indian national dies of bullet injuries in Khartoum:

An Indian national died in Khartoum after sustaining bullet injuries in the violence-hit capital. The Indian embassy in Khartoum said the deceased, Albert Augestine, was working in a Dal Group Company in Sudan.

Condoling the death of the Indian national, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said the situation in Khartoum remains one of "great concern" and that India will continue to monitor the developments in that country.

MEA promises to assist Indians:

The Ministry of External Affairs has set up a Control Room to provide information and assistance to Indians.

The ministry further shared the Coordinates of the Control Room, and e-mail and gave the phone numbers for divulging information about the Indians who are stuck in Sudan.

"Phone: 1800 11 8797 (Toll-free) 91-11-23012113; 91-11-23014104; 91-11-23017905; Mobile: 91 9968291988 and Email: situationroom@mea.gov.in," the MEA wrote.

WHAT'S AT STAKE?

The popular uprising had raised hopes that Sudan and its population of 46 million could emerge from decades of autocracy, internal conflict, and economic isolation under Bashir.

Conflict could not only destroy those hopes but destabilise a volatile region bordering the Sahel, the Red Sea, and the Horn of Africa.

It could also play into competition for influence in the region between Russia and the United States, and between regional powers who have courted different actors in Sudan.
Taiwan will buy as many as 400 land-launched Harpoon missiles intended to repel a potential Chinese invasion, completing a deal that Congress approved in 2020, according to a trade groups leader and people familiar with the issue.

Taiwan has previously purchased ship-launched versions of the Harpoon, which is made by Boeing Co. Now, a contract with Boeing issued on Taiwans behalf by the US Naval Air Systems Command marks a first for the mobile, land-launched version, according to Rupert Hammond-Chambers, president of the US-Taiwan Business Council. Three other people familiar with the deal, including an industry official, confirmed the contract is for Taiwan.

The Pentagon announced the $1.7 billion contract with Boeing on April 7 but made no mention of Taiwan as the purchaser. The deal comes as US-China tensions are high, particularly over Taiwan, the self-governed island that China claims as part of its territory. China held military drills around Taiwan after its president met in California this month with US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy.

Army Lieutenant Colonel Martin Meiners, a Defense Department spokesman, declined to say whether Taiwan will be the recipient of the Harpoon missiles but said we will continue to work with industry to provide Taiwan defense equipment in a timely manner.

The United States provision to Taiwan of defense articles, which includes sustainment to existing capabilities via Foreign Military Sales and Direct Commercial Sales, is essential for Taiwans security," Meiners said.

The Harpoon contract has been cited by members of Congress including Representative Michael McCaul, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, as part of as much $19 billion in backlogged" US sales to Taiwan that they say need to accelerated. In addition to the Harpoon, the list includes the F-16 Block 70 fighter, the MK-48 torpedo, the M109A6 Paladin self-propelled howitzer and the Stinger missile.

The backlog, and the Harpoon sale, are likely to be discussed Tuesday at a hearing of the House Armed Service Committee focusing on the Indo-Pacific.

Ground-launched Harpoon missiles used for coastal defense figured prominently in a series of tabletop war games of a potential invasion of Taiwan by China conducted last year by the Center for Strategic and International Studies.

Because of their mobility and ability to range the entire strait, these missiles were highly effective against Chinese invasion forces," said analyst Mark Cancian who managed the exercises. They also reduced the need to station US forces on the island. However, 400 is not nearly enough. The Taiwanese need many more."

The $1.7 billion weapons contract was preceded in March 2022 by a $498 million contract to Boeing specifically for Taiwan that ordered Harpoon Coastal Defense System" launch equipment such as mobile transporters, radar and training equipment.
US authorities arrested two men Monday for allegedly setting up a Chinese "police station" in New York and charged dozens of Chinese security officials over a campaign to monitor and harass US-based dissidents.

The arrests of Harry Lu Jianwang, 61, and Chen Jinping, 59, are the first anywhere over a suspected campaign by China to establish surreptitious police posts in countries around the world, said Breon Peace, the top federal prosecutor in Brooklyn.

The two men set up the office in Manhattan's Chinatown last year at the behest of the Fuzhou branch of the Ministry of Public Security (MPS), China's national police force, ostensibly to offer services like Chinese driver's license renewal, according to Peace.

But in fact their main job was to help track down and harass fugitive dissidents from the People's Republic of China (PRC), US officials said.

"The MPS established a concrete outpost, an off-the-books police station right here in New York City, to monitor and intimidate dissidents and other critics of the PRC within one of the United States' most vibrant diaspora communities," said David Newman, the Justice Department's principal deputy assistant attorney general for national security.

Harassing dissidents

Canada and several European governments have cracked down on similar "police stations."

Last year the Spain-based human rights group Safeguard Defenders first revealed the existence of such outposts around the world.

They often operate with little or no indication they are there -- though US officials said the Manhattan office had been visited by officials from the Chinese consulate in New York.

According to Safeguard Defenders, the "police stations" have been involved in pressuring Chinese nationals to return home to face criminal charges.

Canada has identified and closed several unofficial outposts in Montreal and elsewhere.

In October, Dutch authorities said they were investigating reports of two Chinese police operations in Amsterdam and Rotterdam.

Lu and Chen were charged with acting as unregistered agents of a foreign government and obstruction for destroying evidence of their communications with Chinese officials.

Anti-dissident task force

In a related case, the Justice Department announced charges against 34 members of China's MPS who were allegedly involved in harassing dissidents overseas, including the US-based Falun Gong religious movement.

The indictees are allegedly members of the "912 Special Project Working Group," which the Justice Department described as an MPS task force set up "to target Chinese dissidents located throughout the world, including in the United States."

The task force created thousands of fake social media accounts, according to the US charges, to target Chinese dissidents "through online harassment and threats."

They also sometimes pose as people from the United States or other countries, the charges said, to push Beijing's official view or interpretation of global issues, from Democracy to the Ukraine war to American racial tensions.

"This task force isn't a normal police force," said Peace.

"It doesn't protect people or combat crimes. It commits crimes targeting Chinese democracy activists and dissidents located outside of the PRC, including right here in New York City."

Interrupting Zoom meetings

Another six MPS officials and two members of China's Cyberspace Administration were charged with conspiracy in an updated 2020 case of a China-based employee of Zoom acting to disrupt online meetings and discussions by anti-Beijing activists.

The new indictment says the employee, Julien Jin, "worked directly with and took orders from" the MPS and Cyberspace Administration.

In one case, in May and June 2020, Jin used his access to Zoom company systems to disrupt online meetings by activists to discuss the anniversary of the 1989 Tiananmen anti-democracy crackdown and massacre in Beijing.

"It shows the PRC efforts to globalize the oppressive tactics used domestically in China to silence dissent," said Newman.

The efforts of the government of the PRC to export authoritarian methods to stifle free expression in the United States is a threat to American democracy that we will not abide."
In July 2008, Apple Inc. opened its first retail store in China, marking the start of a meteoric rise in the country. Fifteen years later, Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook is offering the same blessing to India. Its obvious that the worlds most-valuable company should hang out its shingle in what may already be the globes most populous country, yet theres a cautionary tale not only from its time in China, but from its chief rival.

When hundreds of people queued up for the opening of that first store in Beijing, the nation was barely a blip on Apples revenue radar. By the next financial year, ending September 2009, China plus Hong Kong combined brought in a mere $769 million in revenue, accounting for 1.8% of the global total. Within another two years, the figure jumped to $12 billion, or 11.5%.

India is at that point now. Over the past year through March 31, Apples sales in the country climbed around 50% to almost $6 billion, Bloomberg News reported Monday, citing a person familiar with the matter. Thats an impressive jump given the global slump in gadget sales across all categories. Yet its still only 1.6% of company-wide revenue, and around 8% the scale of what the iPhone maker currently gets in Greater China.(1)

In opening two stores this week  the first in Mumbai followed by another in New Delhi  Cooks move could be seen as either driving business in an important market, or simply jumping on the bandwagon of growth that already exists. There certainly seems to be no downside given that hes also pushed suppliers such as Foxconn Technology Group, Wistron Corp. and Pegatron Corp. to ramp up output in the country. While local manufacturing avoids import taxes imposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modis government, exports are also playing an increasing role, with outbound sales of handsets climbing 67% in the 12 months to Dec. 31 to more than $7.1 billion, according to Indias Department of Commerce.(2)

Chinese brand Xiaomi dominated the market in India in shipment units last year, followed by Samsung, Vivo, Realme and Oppo, according to Counterpoint Research. Apples not among the leaders until you consider share by value, where the iPhone occupies the premium end. By that metric, the US company is second behind its South Korean nemesis. More importantly, Apple  which has far fewer discrete models than other players  occupied the top three spots with various iterations of the iPhone 13. (3)

Its easy to see why the future may be bright for Apple. With its high-priced device appealing to Indias middle class and its enhanced spending power, the Cupertino-based company is building loyalty it can use to sell other products: Airpods and Apple Watch would pair nicely with that sleek new handset. And from there, lure them into a growing array of services which includes Apple Music, Apple TV+, iCloud and more. Samsung, as the prime rival in the Android camp, also makes devices locally and has done well to build a loyal fanbase.

Theres a lot to navigate along the way, though. India is far behind China in key aspects important for manufacturing that include infrastructure, bureaucracy, attention to detail, and even a sense of urgency. If Apple is to rely on India for domestic supply, and demand rises quicker than output, then growth could be hit. Yet even as these issues get ironed out, a greater degree of political risk starts to emerge. Further revelations of poor worker conditions, or an uprising at a local factory, could sour Indias populace toward the American giant.

Apple has already experienced this in China. In 2015, the region accounted for 25% of total sales, but then started to plummet. The next year, Beijing banned the iTunes and iBooks stores, and growing nationalism, combined with rising tensions with the US, saw the Apple brand lose some of its shine. Yet no company has suffered more at the hands of consumer backlash than Samsung Electronics Co.

When Apples first China store opened, the coolest names in smartphones were Nokia, HTC, Motorola and Samsung. Not long after, the first three started to decline but Samsung stuck around. By 2013, Samsung had taken the lead with Huawei Technologies Co. a rising challenger and Apple enjoying its niche atop the premium list. As with India recently, iPhones were not the leader by shipments but tended to dominate by value.

For a while, Samsung enjoyed leadership in both value and shipments, a sign it was hitting just the right price points to garner broad appeal from Chinese consumers. But Huawei got stronger, Xiaomi moved from cheap to premium, and then in 2016 dozens of Samsung Note 7 handsets started to randomly catch fire across the planet. Within a few years much of the world forgave Samsung and started buying again, but not China. That the South Korean company didnt issue a local recall for this model exacerbated the antipathy among buyers. Before long Samsung just wasnt cool anymore.

There once was a time when it was hard to fathom Nokia not being the hippest device around, and after that Samsung was the it" brand. Apple is there now, in much of the world. For a growing class of Indian consumers, the iPhone is an aspirational product. Great design, consistently high product quality, and interoperability across Apple devices and services makes it a perennial favorite.

Thats the kind of positive view Cook enjoys this week when he debuts Apples retail experience in India. Its a sentiment likely to last for many years. But its a journey that will prove to be bumpy and uncomfortable along the way.

Tim Culpan is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist covering technology in Asia. Previously, he was a technology reporter for Bloomberg News.

This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text.
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.
After China, the last of Sri Lankas major international creditors, finally agreed to restructure its bilateral debt, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) gave the island nation a $3 billion conditional loan that would allow it to access an additional $4 billion from other multilateral lenders.

The IMF has disbursed $333 million, the first tranche of the loan which is to be disbursed over four years, subject to Sri Lanka implementing the reform package it has agreed to.

India was the first bilateral creditor to agree to restructure its own loan and the Sri Lankan envoy, who met Indias finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman, highlighted this point while hoping for sustained cooperation between the two countries.

Bilateral creditors have to agree to restructure their own loans for the IMF to give a debtor nation relief money  it does not want the credit it grants to be used solely for repaying the debt of bilateral creditors. If a single country refused to restructure its loan, all other lenders would be left watching as money meant to be used to meet the debtor nations external financing requirements went, instead, to that single creditor. This is why Chinas reluctance to restructure its loan to Sri Lanka rankled in Colombo.

This is not particularly bad news for New Delhi. Under the Rajapaksas, Sri Lanka had grown close to China  so much so that it got a major belt-and-road project, the Hambantota port, at its southern tip. It proved to be a commercial dud, as expected, and Colombo was unable to service the debt incurred for the project from the ports revenues. It didnt have sufficient wherewithal to service the debt from other resources either, and ended up giving the Hambantota port and 15,000 acres of land around it to China on a 99-year lease.

Sri Lankas economy had been badly mismanaged by successive governments, including the previous one led by Gotabaya Rajapaksa, under whom things got so bad that the people revolted, overran his palace and drove him into exile last July. India gave the country an emergency line of credit and opened rupee trade with it. This will continue to be an attractive option for the country, where foreign exchange is scarce. India is in a position to supply three different kinds of goods that are vital to Sri Lanka  fuel, food and medicines. It can also supply an increasing variety of electronics manufactured in India by global brands.

Such a vigorous trade partnership would help India reduce Chinas influence over the island nation that lies just 54.8 km from its southern tip, across the Palk Strait. It would also give New Delhi more room to manoeuvre on areas of vital interest, such as the treatment accorded to Sri Lankan Tamils and, coordinating policy and action against Islamist extremists who seek to radicalise peaceful Muslim populations in South Asia.

On Easter Sunday In April 2019, three churches and three luxury hotels in Colombo were bombed by Islamic radicals, creating a communal backlash of the kind that feeds extremism. It is not in Indias interest for its southern neighbour to become a hotbed of Islamic radicalism.

Friendly relations are key to coordinating policy with the government of a neighbouring country. India will be able to deliver on another front vital not just to Sri Lankas wellbeing but its very survival  climate change.

In building resilience into infrastructure, agriculture and the financing of everything at risk from climate change, as well as green technologies, India can be of significant assistance to Sri Lanka.

Sri Lankan president Ranil Wickremesinghe has a tough job on his hands right now. Unions are on the warpath, protesting against some of the reforms already implemented as part of IMFs conditions. Taxes have been raised, fuel subsidies slashed and the exchange rate liberalised to move towards market-determined levels.

Wickremesinghe has the turmoil of the recent past with which to warn the Sri Lankan people of the cost of clinging to unsustainable policies. Indias backing is vital for the Sri Lankan president to stand his ground and survive the present round of popular unrest.

Indias proactive help, rupee-trade opportunities, and overall strategic capacity augur well for Sri Lankas emergence from the current economic crisis on the back of a strong partnership with India.
Burleigh County commissioners have sharply increased the fee developers of hazardous liquid pipelines will have to pay to get a special county permit.

They've also finalized a decision to ask state regulators to hold off on approving the North Dakota route of Summit Carbon Solutions' planned carbon dioxide pipeline, which would pass through northern Burleigh.

The decisions are the latest to unfold after county residents north of Bismarck earlier this year expressed safety concerns with the route of the planned Midwest Carbon Express pipeline, as well as worries that it's too close to developing north Bismarck. The project would transport climate-warming CO2 emissions from dozens of ethanol plants in five Midwestern states to North Dakotas Oliver County for permanent storage underground.

The commission in early March approved a county safety ordinance that requires companies building hazardous liquid pipelines to submit emergency plans to local officials. Commissioners late last month adopted new zoning regulations that require companies building pipelines for hazardous liquids to obtain a special county permit and follow certain rules.

The cost of the permit initially was listed as $300. The commission on Monday night voted 5-0 to make the fee $1,406 per mile of pipeline. County Planning Director Mitch Flanagan told commissioners the change was based on what it would actually cost the county to process such a permit.

"How we arrived at that is, we broke down our overhead and our permitting costs and the review of the special use permit and the cost of approving -- for the hearings -- and then the cost of inspection," he said.

Summit will have to pay nearly $58,000 for the permit under the ordinance change. The company in a statement to the Tribune said, "The basis for the increased Burleigh County fee is unclear; however, Summit looks forward to working with the county to better understand an appropriate fee structure."

The permit fee is a one-time cost -- not assessed annually. The ordinance does require a separate annual fee of about $117 per mile of pipeline to cover the county's emergency planning and preparations, including first responder training and equipment, so that cost doesn't fall on taxpayers, Flanagan said.

Commissioner Brian Bitner said the plan was to address the special permit fee when the ordinance was passed, but the matter was overlooked. He said it's "not a situation that (the county) makes money off of these things, but we have to cover our costs."

More information on the county ordinances is at bit.ly/3UJKTvu.

PSC request

Commissioners on Monday night also voted unanimously to send the state Public Service Commission a letter asking the three-member panel of regulators to hold off on deciding on a permit for Summit's CO2 pipeline until updated federal rules for such projects are in place.

The PSC will permit the pipeline's route throughout North Dakota. The North Dakota Industrial Commission will permit the CO2 disposal site. The PSC has held public hearings in Bismarck, Gwinner and Wahpeton, and has scheduled hearings May 9 in Linton and June 2 in Bismarck. Details can be found at bit.ly/3KLgoAT.

The federal Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration is updating safety regulations for CO2 pipelines in the wake of a CO2 pipeline operated by Denbury Gulf Coast Pipelines rupturing in Satartia, Mississippi, in 2020. Flanagan said the intent of the county letter is to ask the PSC for a delay until there are "more current or more effective design standards in place."

Summit has said that issues outlined by PHMSA in its Satartia Failure Investigation Report have been factored into the "planning, design, construction and operations" of the Midwest Carbon Express project.

Commission Chair Becky Matthews said the letter does not mean the county will be opposed to every hazardous liquid pipeline, "but we want the most up to date and accurate information on how to do it safely."

The letter cites the need to "protect the health, welfare and safety of the people of Burleigh County."

Summit touts the overall safety record of the thousands of miles of CO2 pipelines that have operated in the U.S. for decades, and notes that a CO2 pipeline has existed in western North Dakota for more than 20 years, transporting carbon dioxide from the Great Plains Synfuels Plant in Beulah to oil fields in Canada.

"Here in North Dakota, it is clear landowners view our project as critical to maintaining the long-term viability of the states most important industries -- agriculture, energy, and ethanol," Summit said in its statement to the Tribune. "To date, Summit has gained support from nearly three-quarters of North Dakotans located along the proposed pipeline route and more than 85% of the proposed sequestration site. That includes Burleigh County, where 25 miles of our project route has been secured through voluntary easement agreements with local landowners."

There are about 41 miles of pipeline proposed in Burleigh County as part of Summits project.

Bitner said the commission wants the PSC to reject the pipeline "in its current location."

"We're hearing nothing but opposition to that location," he said. "I think that there may well be some places in Burleigh County where the citizens would be OK with that on their land, but not in this highly developed area close to the city of Bismarck."
In the past two weeks the Indian government has organised two major G20 meetings  of finance and foreign ministers  while a private think-tank organised the Raisina Dialogue, Indias largest international affairs policy forum, in Delhi. Organising such large gatherings of policymaking elites, or of those who influence policy making, are now an essential facet of a countrys soft-power outreach, which is itself a means to achieving practical, hard-power goals.

India has a history of organising large gatherings of government and other influential elites. It hosted the Asian Relations Conference of 1947, even before it had attained Independence. It was also the moving spirit at the Afro-Asian Conference in 1955 in Bandung, Indonesia.

This outreach and spirit of leadership, however, fell by the wayside over the following decades as India focused its attention to combating a sometimes actively hostile external environment and several internal crises. It is only in the past two decades, when Indias economic growth has accelerated, that the old confidence on the world stage has started to return. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, foreign policy has developed a particular activism, with a former professional diplomat in charge of the external affairs portfolio and three ministers of state to boot  the most in any central government ministry.

The Raisina Dialogue is one result of this activism. Backed hugely by Indias External Affairs Ministry, it has grown to the level of its predecessors, such as the London-based International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore, and Manama Dialogue in Bahrain. But it is already past time that the Indian government launched new initiatives.

Thats because New Delhi, even now, is still playing catch-up in the region. India does not have the kind of inter-governmental forums it can actively lead, where its views and positions hold the kind of sway that ASEAN has, for example, with the ASEAN Regional Forum or the ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting Plus. While these are largely talk-shops, they keep alive for ASEAN the useful fiction that it is at the centre of regional geopolitics and able to direct it.

China has, since the mid-1990s, actively sought to shape its region and the wider world through regional initiatives such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), with its focus on Eurasia, as well as a series of regional economic cooperation forums like the China-Eurasia Expo and the China-ASEAN Expo. These are massive platforms where business elites meet to exchange views and conclude deals under subtle Chinese political direction.

China has also had various kinds of South Asia-focused initiatives such as the China-South Asia Think-tank Forum and the China-South Asia Legal Forum. At these forums, Indians are often merely onlookers or are simply ignored as smaller countries in the region use Chinas backing to criticise India or let the Chinese fire from their shoulder.

With time and greater confidence, China has organised pan-Asian or trans-regional initiatives such as the long-running Boao Forum for Asia, its rival to the World Economic Forum in Davos, the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, and sub-regional forums like the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation Mechanism, which seeks to undermine both the Asian Development Bank-led Greater Mekong Subregion project and the India-led Mekong-Ganga Cooperation project. The Chinese have also used other forums such as the IISS Singapore forum to grandstand and sell their narratives about the perils of a US-led global order.

What India urgently needs is a major security dialogue forum that it can lead and set the agenda for, in order to promote its own interests between the dominant US-China or US-Russia competition narratives. As real or intractable as such issues might be, to allow them to dominate regional or global attention without putting forward an Indian narrative or showcasing Indias ability to handle major security tasks  mediation, peacekeeping, and yes, warfighting  is to undersell India and undo the good work of New Delhis presidency of the G20 and of forums such as the Raisina Dialogue.

The Chinese have a long-running Beijing Xiangshan Military Forum and other inter-governmental mechanisms such as the China-Africa Peace and Security Forum and the Middle East Security Forum, in addition to platforms within the SCO. The Concept Paper on Chinas new Global Security Initiative, released in February, talks of encourage[ing] more exchanges and cooperation among university-level military and police academies" and of Chinas willingness to provide other developing countries with 5,000 training opportunities in the next five years to train professionals for addressing global security issues". Such confidence comes from years of preparation and hosting of multilateral dialogues by the Chinese military.

India has active defence training and cooperation mechanisms with many countries in its immediate and extended neighbourhood, including for UN peacekeeping. But these initiatives are undersold or poorly advertised, at least in part because of a dysfunctional civil-military relationship in India. This has to change.

National Maritime Foundation, an Indian Navy-backed think-tank, conducts an annual Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue focused on maritime issues and defence expos have caught on in a big way but this is not enough. Indias military diplomacy must move beyond port calls, military exercises and a few slots within the MEA allotted to serving defence personnel to make up for the ministrys manpower shortages in administrative and logistical tasks.

Instead, the Indian government must do away with outdated service rules about contacts between serving Indian military officers and foreign counterparts they have met during officially sanctioned education and training exchanges, and promote a culture of area studies and intellectual endeavour within the Indian armed forces. India needs a global forum whose conduct and agenda are led by its military to signal more strongly its global capabilities and ambitions.
At a celebration of the 40th anniversary of Infosys, co-founder N.R. Narayana Murthy has confessed that he feels he has been completely wrong in disallowing the children of the founders to work at it, depriving the organization of legitimate talent. Taking back this past position, he said that he now thinks that every individual must have the same opportunity without discrimination if he or she is considered the best person for the role.

Its safe to assume that the remark is likely to be about his son, Rohan Murthy, given that of all the companys founders hes the only one to have had a stint in Infosys. That just as genes cannot guarantee corporate leadership success, equally they cannot be the overriding grounds for disqualifying worthy candidates is a valid argument. Murthy is essentially arguing for extending meritocracy to children of promoters.

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All the same, Murthy had valid reasons for precluding scions of Infosys founders from entering the portals of India's first enterprise built by middle-class South Indians  as he went on to explain: That point in time probably I embraced the idea because I was afraid that some people may bring undeserving candidates and put them in positions and I wanted the future of the organization to be strong".

Sorry" and I was wrong" are not words one hears often in the corporate world. Murthys remarks are creditworthy, and underline his passion for the company he co-founded with his six friends in 1981.

The question that emerges, though, is: Was the disqualification an opportunity loss for Infosys?

It's easier to analyse and evaluate things in hindsight. Mint has documented shareholder wealth created by Infosys and new business acquired by it under chief executive Salil Parekh, a former Capgemini executive, over the last five years. On both counts, the performance has been better than during the tenures of his predecessors. An uncontested fact remains that Infosys has done well under him  arguably, better than under any of the four co-founders. Managing an IT services company like Infosys, with over $17 billion in revenue and 3,45,000 employees as of 30 September, requires extraordinary leadership.

Rohan, a doctorate from Harvard, has the chops and understands the technology landscape. His stint of less than a year at Infosys, when he returned as an executive assistant to his father back in 2013, wasnt smooth. It coincided with several senior-level exits. The jury is still out on how his eight-year-old and privately held Soroco, which promises to improve productivity at firms, has fared.

How have Infosys peers tackled this issue? Shiv Nadars daughter Roshni Nadar took over as the HCL Technologies chairperson in 2020. Rishad Premji, after having worked across roles for over 12 years, took over from his father Azim Premji in 2019. But Premji owns 73% of Wipro and Nadar owns about 61% of HCL. In contrast, Infosys founders own a relatively small 15.16%. Murthy and his family own 4.15%. The stake is small but such is the regard for Murthy that his writ still runs large at the company. He wasnt even on the board in 2017 when he ousted both Infosys chairman R. Seshasayee and CEO Vishal Sikka.

Murthy commands uncommon respect and loyalty of his colleagues and his employees, as Nandan Nilekani, Infosys chairman, outlined at the event commemorating the 40th anniversary: Frankly, if he would have said jump off the cliff we would have done that; we had that level of loyalty for him."

And yet, Murthy's stake would not have been enough, for the sake of an argument, to keep Rohan at the helm. If the company would have underperformed, after some point, investors would probably have started grumbling. Murthy knows all this well as it was one of these rare circumstances of investor unrest that eventually led to his return in 2013. Infosyss sub-par and wobbly performance under co-founder S.D. Shibulal made at least one Singapore-based influential investor, Baburaj Pillai, demand from the then board chairman K.V. Kamath to bring back Murthy. Murthy eventually did return, along with his son, cleaned up the dead wood, and oversaw a succession planning that eventually went awry when Sikka abruptly quit in 2017.

Globally, there are many examples of business families that have over generations kept vigil against the boardroom, cushioning corporate managers. As executive chairman, William Clay Ford Jr. still has a significant role in the appointment of the CEO at Ford even though he owns only 0.20% of Ford's outstanding stock. The great-grandson of Henry Ford still controls Ford Motor.

Murthy may regret his decision. But Infosys shareholders arent complaining.

Elsewhere in Mint

In Opinion, Manu Joseph tells how we can get our free speech back. Pranjul Bhandari says Indias got a chance to shed pandemic scars and reach out for the stars. Rajrishi Singhal looks back as we look forward to global cooperation. Long Story narrates how Sebi is trying to separate your money from your broker.
Imran Khans recent arrest in Pakistan and the subsequent cancellation of his arrest warrant constitute a new episode in the countrys triangular power play.

In one corner is the Pakistan Army, which considers itself the best custodian of the states interests, protecting it from external enemies and internal chaos. This internal chaos", according to the army and its supporters, manifests in the countrys traditional political parties  the Pakistan Muslim League (PML), led by the Sharif brothers, and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), led by the Bhuttos. These are in the second corner. In the third corner is the upstart, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), led by the mercurial Khan.

Khans mix of populist politics, religious mien, hypernationalism and personal charisma have turned the old duel between the army and the traditional political parties into a three-way fight.

Though it is alleged that the PTI itself was created by the army as a ploy to keep democratically elected parties in check, Khan has accused former army chief Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa of plotting his murder, of attacks against PTI men, of offering favours to members of other political parties, and of lobbying against him with the United States.

The assassination attempt on Khan last November by a supposed drug addict has worsened the situation. Along the way, Khan has built up a more credible image than the other parties have on challenging the Pakistan Army.

The army appears for the moment to be keeping a low profile, given the countrys economic situation and negotiations for bailouts from international agencies and other countries. But the civilian government, led by the PML, has continued its attacks on Khan. The governments legal measures against Khan are one way in which the traditional parties are responding to the challenge to their electoral base posed by Khan and his PTI.

There are nearly a 100 cases filed against Khan, accusing him of a range of crimes from corruption to sponsoring violence to terrorism. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has accused him of fascist and militant tendencies" and attempts to intimidate the judiciary" in a tweet.

In another tweet, Sharif even seemed to be currying favour with the army by criticising the PTI for its disgusting smear campaign against Chief of the Army Staff General Asim Munir", testifying to the abiding importance of Pakistans military as a swing factor if not kingmaker in the countrys politics.

But all of this reeks of desperation" as the prominent Pakistani daily Dawn put it. The political and institutional challenges  such as pressure on the judiciary  posed by Khan and his supporters are unlikely to be tackled by what will be perceived as vendetta politics.

Pakistans dire economic straits, poor international image and fed-up population have allowed Khan to cast himself in the light of a saviour, fighting both the army and traditional parties. Whether he actually has cogent political and economic policies to tackle the countrys myriad internal and external challenges is another matter altogether.

Khans radical politics and surging popularity of recent years challenge not only the Pakistan Army and the countrys traditional political parties, but also India and other concerned external powers. For New Delhi, already at a loose end with respect to the Talibans return to power in Afghanistan, one more populist and radicalized regime in the neighbourhood, especially with a large population, not to mention nuclear weapons, should be a matter of concern.

This concern should cause New Delhis policymaking elites to think up radically different approaches to Pakistan and devise ways of conducting outreach and diplomacy that can either nip these challenges in the bud or at the very least mitigate them.
Indias former economic advisor Arvind Subramanian once invoked the Mahabharata to aptly describe one of the countrys biggest hurdles to long-term growth  that of free exits for firms. It was like the Chakravyuha from which Abhimanyu was unable to break free, he said.

Free exit occurs when a firm can exit the market without limit when incurring economic losses.

Companies, both domestic and foreign, as well as workers will connect to this. Take the case of automaker General Motors, which is battling its workers union on a voluntary separation. A court in Pune last week ordered the company and the union to mediate after differences emerged over a severance package. Meanwhile, a leading edtech company that sacked several staffers at one of its offices in Kerala a few months ago had to backpedal after facing resistance from staffers and politicians.

Indian industry and many economists have traced the origins of such resistance to the countrys restrictive industrial policies in the early decades of the republic. Such fetters have hobbled the growth of firms, discouraged large, labour-intensive manufacturing, increased transaction costs and reduced competitiveness, theyve argued.

Indian policymakers have long recognised this and sought to address the issue of free entry and exit for firms in the first flush of economic liberalisation in 1991.

While that government and subsequent ones did progressively ease restrictions on domestic and foreign companies, success on a free exit policy has been elusive.

The central government may have changed labour laws with the introduction of four labour codes, but labour is on the concurrent list. And not all states may want to play ball. Indeed, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh have moved on this front, but the majority of investment still flows to states with superior infrastructure and an industrial base.

It isnt as if the government hasnt tried. The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) introduced during the first term of the Modi-led government was aimed at easing the pain of closing a firm, stemming erosion of the value of assets of a company, and helping lenders realise better value.

But the early success and euphoria that was generated after the quick resolution of some firms bankruptcies has since dissipated, with the average time lines for resolution now more than twice the mandated period of 270 days.

Building an exit policy that will meet the competing demands of business and labour is a difficult challenge for any government. Over 30 years ago, the Narasimha Rao government approved the formation of a National Renewal Fund (NRF) to provide a safety net for workers. The idea was to fund the severance costs of employees hit by the closure of both state-owned units and private companies, and to help them to adapt to a new world of technology.

That initiative was perceived as a nudge by the World Bank, which had approved a loan that did not materialise thanks to political and economic constraints. Similarly, promises of using the proceeds from the sale of state-run companies to protect workers havent been delivered either.

The failure to build consensus on a suitable exit policy has been costly for the economy as it incentivises firms to remain small and limit their ambitions.

Overcoming this will require a social safety net to which workers contribute, more skill training, generous severance packages, and insurance tools. That wont be easy for a country with limited fiscal resources. The Chakravyuha challenge still looms large.
Sanjiv Mehta is passing on the baton at Hindustan Unilever Ltd (HUL) to Rohit Jawa, another Unilever veteran, who has served in various capacities all over the world. Jawa has big shoes to fill, but his track record and the goodwill he enjoys from fellow professionals suggest he will thrive in the role.

Mehta is a tough act to follow. He took over as managing director and CEO in October 2013, at the relatively young age of 52. Jawa begins his tenure at 56. He started his career outside the Lever ecosystem and was part of the leadership team at Union Carbide when the worlds biggest industrial disaster took place in Bhopal in 1984.

That crisis-management skill must have equipped him to handle subsequent crises at the helm of Indias biggest fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) company. Demonetisation in November 2016 certainly caused a crisis for the Indian economy as people suddenly found themselves bereft of liquidity. No company could put money in the hands of consumers, but they could ease the pain in the distribution chain. HUL managed that better than most.

In July 2017, India transitioned to the Goods and Services Tax. A change of tax regime need not signal a crisis, but in India we have the ability to create crises out of thin air. The handling of inventories already out in the system when the transition to GST commenced was one that the FMCG giant handled admirably, given the millions of stock keeping units (SKUs) on which it had to change the labelling.

However, the anti-profiteering division of the governments GST administration came down on the company, accusing it of not passing on to the end consumer the savings secured via the avoidance of cascading tax on tax in the supply chain that GST enabled.

Dealing with regulators and the tax authorities is, of course, one of the tasks of a corporate leader. Suave Sanjiv Mehta was good at that. Then he had to endure the pandemic and its disruptions. To his credit, the company remained robust on his watch. Turnover crossed 50,000 crore and the companys market capitalisation more than quadrupled to $75 billion, making HUL more valuable than many global FMCG majors.

A Harvard management graduate, Mehta has devised many strategies to help HUL thrive in India. One is what he calls Winning in Many Indias. In his public comments, he has chosen to describe this strategy as one that is hard to replicate.

This may not be for the incoming MD and CEO what a red rag is to a bull, but it certainly is a challenge. Rohit Jawa is a relative stranger to the Indian media, having toiled his way up the senior Unilever ranks mostly outside the country after joining the company as a management trainee in 1988.

But Gopal Vittal, one of the seniormost HUL executives before he joined Bharti Airtel as CEO, has good words for Jawa. He has worked in India, Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, the Philippines, Indonesia and China with a broad experience across home care, personal care and food sectors. He was chairman of Unilever China. He is currently head of transformation for Unilever in London, with experience in digitisation.

Mehta had growth going for him. Indias per-capita income rose 60% in dollar terms during his stint and the country jumped from the low-income bracket to middle-income (albeit at the low end of this range). This is a huge positive for consumer goods, with goods like packaged foods suddenly taking off.

Jawa is likely to be favoured by rapid urbanisation and greater concentration of purchasing power, both geographically and social segment-wise. This would permit a largish segment to evolve demand patterns resembling those of rich countries, even as the many Indias that Mehta has been bent on winning over remain consumers to be wooed.

While online sales were expected to dilute the advantage that entrenched players like HUL had in terms of an extensive distribution network, it has not played out as expected so far. But then, the share of online sales in overall retail sales has remained low. This could change with the growth of not just Amazon, Flipkart and Reliance but also new entrants, including the government-sponsored Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC).

A new arms race in robotics and artificial intelligence, enabled by 5G communications, will play out in retail and other sectors. Jawas experience thinking about transformation and digitisation should help him deal with these new challenges.

The well-thought-out, planned succession from within the Unilever universe, announced four months ahead of the transition, sets a good example not just for other companies but also the government, which struggles to identify a successor sometimes even four months after a key player has left office.
Indian air travel saw an unexpected bump in February thanks to a rush of post-covid conferencing and events, among other reasons. While this demand may eventually flatten, what is not in question is the size and potential of the Indian air travel market. Reflecting this reality, former state-owned carrier Air India recently announced orders for 470 Boeing and Airbus aircraft, with an option to buy more than 800 planes in total.

The implications of the deal, however, go beyond commerce. That the Tatas, the current owners of Air India, and the Indian government are on the same page about the larger strategic implications of this deal should be self-evident. Like the Chinese have done for several decades now, the Indian government has begun to use the economic capacity of its expanding middle class as leverage in foreign policy.

Whatever its business logic, Air India splitting its large order between two rival companies on either side of the Atlantic suggests smart balancing from a larger political perspective.

Indo-US relations have grown closer in recent years. However, while India has signed all four foundational military agreements with the US, it remains careful about maintaining its strategic autonomy and not being seen as an alliance partner of the US. With the Russian invasion of Ukraine, this task has become harder but New Delhi has stuck to its guns, refusing to sanction Russia or stop buying oil from it.

The Airbus-Boeing deals can be seen as both a case of India making it up to the US and underlining its bargaining power in international relations. The importance of the Boeing deal to the Americans is evident from US President Joe Biden immediately noting that the purchase will support over one million American jobs across 44 states". It is also a subtler intervention in American politics by New Delhi (Biden recently telegraphed his intention to run for a second term) than Prime Minister Narendra Modis stadium shows with Bidens predecessor, Donald Trump.

Meanwhile, the European sense of self has come under pressure given its inability to respond effectively to the war in Ukraine, its dependence on Russia for energy, and the realisation that the US remains central to its security. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has met regularly with Modi, and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz is soon to arrive in New Delhi following his visit to China at the end of last year. All of these are efforts to boost European visibility on the world stage.

But there are also domestic fissures within many European countries that undermine these efforts. French President Emmanuel Macron, for example, has been facing the ire of protesters across the country for over a month, following his decision to raise the retirement age  itself a response to structural economic problems that several major European economies are facing.

The multibillion-euro Airbus deal from India is, therefore, a significant boost for the European project and, one could argue, another example of New Delhis subtle intervention in European politics to achieve its own foreign policy goals. Airbus is the worlds second largest maker of commercial aircraft after Boeing, and is co-owned by the German-French-Spanish European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company (EADS), with an 80% interest, and Britains BAE Systems, with 20%. It is a European rather than a national corporation. Its registered headquarters is in Leiden, Netherlands, but its head office is in Toulouse, France.

The Europeans are major defence suppliers to India, and France has a significant presence in the Indian Ocean and offers a useful counter to American dominance there. The bumper aircraft deal, therefore, is another example of India not just exercising its strategic autonomy but also gathering supporters even as Russia is no longer able to have New Delhis back as it once did.

As Russia bleeds itself dry in Ukraine, China becomes entrenched as the primary economic, military and ideological challenger to the West, and the US and its European allies remain riven by internal discord, India is in a position to derive tangible benefits from its historical preference for non-alignment. But non-alignment  or multi-alignment, as some call it these days  does not mean non-intervention.

Indias greater economic heft and political attention on the global stage alone will not suffice in the pursuit of national interests. Choices must be made and cards played with greater felicity if it is to make the most of this period of strategic opportunity.
Americas soft power is in full, electric flow across the world when the Oscars are awarded every year. People all over the world rejoice when a film or actor with links to their collective identity receives an award. Indians are happy that RRR received the Oscar for the best original movie song for its dance sensation Nattu Nattu. But their joy pales in comparison with that of Asian Americans for the honours showered on Everything, Everywhere, All At Once, which received 11 nominations and won seven Oscars  for best film, best actress, best director, best original screenplay, best actor in a supporting role, best actress in a supporting role, and best editing.

This is the first time the same movie has won the best film, best actress, best supporting actor and best supporting actress awards. It is also the first time an Asian-American person has won an award for a leading role, and the second time ever a woman of colour has won the best actor award at the Oscars in their 95 years of history.

Asian Americans are 6.2% of the US population and one of the highest achieving communities. Yet their representation in popular culture has been both stereotyped and exotic, quite outside the mainstream. Michelle Yeoh recently recalled being asked if she could speak English. Screenplay writer and co-director Daniel Kwan as well as producer Jonathan Wang are Asian-American.

Seven Oscars for Everything, Everywhere, All At Once goes some way towards correcting this imbalance. (Meanwhile, in China, the official Xinhua news agency has taken pains to clarify that Michelle Yeoh is a Chinese-Malaysian actress.)

The films core theme  the conflicts that attend on relations between parents and children, in particular those between mother and daughter  is universal, but it is explored in a typical Asian-American setting. It tells the story of a middle-aged woman who runs a laundromat, struggles with tax returns, and has a troubled marriage and a daughter with ideas about life that are vastly deviate from tradition.

Naturally, many members of the cast are Asian-American, including Chinese-American and Vietnamese American. Yeoh, who plays the lead character, walked away with the best actress Oscar for a portrayal totally bereft of the usual trappings of Asian-American picturisation in mainstream American movies, usually laden with exotic sexualisation in the case of women.

The movie has been described as a sci-fi film because its lead characters are transported to multiple universes. That is a superficial reading of both the movie and of science fiction. The multiverses in the movie are not spatially separated places that science allows humankind to traverse. The movie explores the potential consequences of each of the myriad choices that confront a person at any key moment of her life, each choice creating a universe different from the one built by the ones not taken.

It explores these realms in a unique way, with a heady mix of kung-fu fighting, magical transportation between universes, bureaucratic mazes, and references to iconic movies of the past, such as 2001: A Space Odyssey and Ratatouille. It is magic realism taking wing as film, exploring the multiple artistic possibilities the medium offers. It evokes mirth at the pace of a Formula One race and is, at the same time, one of the most tender movies of recent times.

The seven Oscars it won have the potential to add to the culture wars raging in American politics. On one level, the awards enhance Americas appeal across the world as a diverse culture strengthened by each slice of diversity, an example of human solidarity cutting through cultural differences. At the same time, it underlines that exaltation of a homogeneous, white Anglo-Saxon culture as the quintessentially American exemplar is a thing of the past. It could well rile those who pine to make America great again.
Playing in the big leagues is not easy but if India is indeed a leading power, as its foreign minister says it is, then directing jamborees like the G20 foreign ministers meet and organising more functional and focused meetings like those of the Quad foreign ministers  as India did this past week  are necessary.

Even so, it is important to rate Indias gains from such exercises.

Lets start with the positives. While all events are occasions for diplomatic signalling, little can be realistically expected in terms of actual output from such large and diverse groupings as the G20. Thus, the lament that no joint communique was adopted at the G20 foreign ministers meeting, and that this reflects Indias inability to broker unity and consensus, are misplaced.

It has been a year since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and in that time ideological divisions between the US-led West on the one side and Russia and China on the other have only become sharper as there seems to be no end in sight to the military conflict. The likelihood of reaching an agreement was therefore low.

For India to be organising the G20 summit in such a time is no mean challenge. If anything, New Delhi should be lauded for simply being able to get everyone together under the same roof. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met for the first time since the Ukraine invasion, even as initial reports suggested that they might not. Even though the face-to-face meeting lasted barely 10 minutes, it is still a significant milestone.

Further, the Chairs Summary and Outcome Document issued at the end of the foreign ministers meeting was a rather innovative alternative to any watered-down joint statement, and perhaps a model to be followed in other multilateral groupings. The document stated that All G20 Foreign Ministers agreed to paragraphs 1, 2 and paragraphs 5 to 24". So it is just two paragraphs that are at the heart of the contention between Russia and China on one side, and the other 18 countries. There is, by and large, clarity on critical issues.

India should take credit where it is due. But this also means expectations from the country will be high going forward.

Paragraph 3 of the Outcome Document deplores in the strongest terms the aggression by the Russian Federation against Ukraine and demands its complete and unconditional withdrawal from the territory of Ukraine".

Paragraph 4 notes, It is essential to uphold international law and the multilateral system that safeguards peace and stability" and also has reference to Prime Minister Narendra Modis declaration when he met the Russian President Vladimir Putin last year, stating, Todays era must not be of war."

For a country that has traditionally preferred abstentions to voting decisively at the UN, India appears to have stated its preference clearly by siding with the majority on the paragraphs 3 and 4. However, the G20 document is not legally binding and the real issue that other countries have with respect to India is of its sincerity of purpose and consistency. If anything, the only thing New Delhi is consistent about is its desire to balance between the West on the one side and the Russians and the Chinese on the other in its quest to have the best of all worlds.

Today there is no doubt about Indias seriousness on the Quad but it continues to be chary of extending commitments to the military front  the only front that really matters if it has to keep China well-behaved. What is more, New Delhis lack of a complete commitment to the Quad is also being exploited. Hours after the Quad meeting, Lavrov said the foreign ministers of Russia, China and India would meet later this year as part of their regular trilateral.

This groupings sole purpose seems to showcase the possibility of an anti-West global order. It has little to show in terms of practical output in over two decades of existence. The language in paragraph 4 was also perhaps not strong enough to draw attention to Chinas violations of Indias territorial sovereignty and integrity. It could have, given the Chinese werent agreeing to the rest of the paragraph in any case.

In effect, therefore, Beijing and Moscow have extracted from India all the costs of being in what is  from their point of view  an adversarial grouping like the Quad and forcing it into sub-optimal foreign policy positions. Whether India can iron out these flaws in its foreign policy by the time it exits the G20 spotlight remains to be seen.
It has been reported that electronics contract manufacturing major Foxconn (formally, Hon Hai Precision Industries, with unaudited 2022 revenues of $213.84 billion) is interested in setting up, even without any government incentives, a semiconductor plant in India, in addition to the one it already is setting up in collaboration with Vedanta in Gujarat. The story is attributed to an unnamed government official, and should be taken along with more than a smidgeon of salt. (The company has not responded to the report so far.) However, there is no denying the robust interest the company is showing in setting up new lines of production in multiple locations across India.

There are two reasons why Foxconn is unlikely to forego official incentives for setting up a new chip-making facility. One is the abundance of incentives on offer for chip manufacture around the world, including in India. The Biden administration has offered $52 billion in subsidies for setting up chip fabrication plants  or fabs  in the US under the Creating Helpful Incentives for the Production of Semiconductors (CHIPS) and Science Act. It has formed a Chip 4 Alliance with Taiwan, South Korea and Japan to try and deny Chinas access to high-end chips that would give it the dominance it seeks in critical dual-use technologies such as artificial intelligence.

Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and the European Union all offer major incentives ranging from tax credits to upfront subsidies for the manufacture of chips. China sees developing its own semiconductor industry as a strategic imperative and cash is no constraint.

Chip manufacture is highly automated, unlike chip design, and requires few workers. Chips are light and can be moved around quickly and cheaply. When liberal incentives are on offer in a certain place, it makes little sense to set up a plant elsewhere. Chips can be produced where it is the cheapest to do so, after factoring in government support, and shipped to where they are in demand.

The other reason for scepticism is the competitive disadvantage a company will inevitably face if it foregoes government incentives while others happily feed from the trough.

Foxconn chairman Young Liu recently visited India and met the prime minister and various chief ministers. He showed interest in setting up plants in Karnataka and Telangana. The companys existing plant in Hosur, Tamil Nadu, where it makes iPhones, could be expanded. Foxconn recently invested in expanding its plant in Vietnam, too.

All this must be seen as part of the ongoing partial diversification of supply chains away from China. The shutdown of Wuhan at the onset of the pandemic and subsequent production and shipment disruptions across China showed the dangers of concentrating production in a single country. China accounts for nearly one-third of all electronics manufacture  worth over $3.4 trillion  for three reasons: a vast, local ecosystem of components that allow for seamless input access, a huge supply of trained manpower, and a logistics network that can handle its gigantic export volumes.

It is not possible, even if people desired it, to transplant all these elsewhere in a short span of time. However, it is possible to take parts of these supply chains out of China. While Japan and South Korea have been shifting assorted lines of production out elsewhere for some time, Chinese companies have joined this trend to lower their costs.

Chinese wages have risen sharply. Citing Haver Analytics, The Economist says Chinese wages doubled between 2013 and 2021 to over $8 an hour, while it is still below $3 an hour in parts of the region The Economist dubs Altasia (alternative Asia). This ultra-low-wage area spans India, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, Bangladesh and Vietnam.

Local production calls for local supply of components, apart from skilled, inexpensive labour, reliable power supply, industry-friendly administration, and functional logistics. India has the most abundant supply of skilled and skill-upgradable workers outside China. While Chinas supply of young workers is no longer increasing as in the past, India has no such problem.

It makes sense for a company like Foxconn to shop around for the best support on offer from different state governments, and itself build the missing bits of the supply chain that it needs for large manufacturing enterprises such as iPhone production.

This is what has been playing out in Foxconns expanding businesses in India. It is good for the company and the Indian economy, and makes for a less concentrated, less vulnerable global production structure.

While it is realistic to expect some supply chain diversification away from China, it is useful to factor in the giant market that China represents for any high-value product when reading reports laden with wild optimism about the scale of this diversification. It makes eminent economic and political sense to retain a fair proportion of production within China, even while shifting other bits to places in Altasia, including India.
Budget writers in the Legislature on Tuesday dug into the estimated costs of a bill targeting sexual content in public libraries, in the wake of varying estimates from the North Dakota State Library.

Bismarck's public library estimates an impact of over $334 million to review its adult and other collections to implement the bill.

The House Appropriations Committee heard the State Library's $450,000 fiscal note of state costs for Senate Bill 2360 by Sen. Keith Boehm, R-Mandan -- the latest of three fiscal notes by the State Library.

Fiscal notes are state agencies' estimates for the financial impact of legislation. The bill's fiscal note and additional testimony also mention cost estimates put forth from local libraries.

The three recent fiscal notes raised questions by lawmakers. The panel did not immediately act on the bill after the half-hour overview.

Exemption

The House Judiciary Committee last week exempted the State Library from the bill, which targets "explicit sexual material" in public libraries.

One lawmaker has said the exemption seems like an effort to avoid a negative recommendation for the bill.

Budget writers queried Judiciary Committee Chair Larry Klemin, R-Bismarck, about the fiscal notes and exemption of the State Library.

Rep. Brandy Pyle, R-Casselton, called the exemption "very confusing for where people are going to go and what rules do we follow."

"There's no consistency. It's not an overall good policy if we're crafting out exemptions for our largest library," Pyle said.

Rep. Karla Rose Hanson, D-Fargo, wondered about the responsibilities involved in interlibrary loan from the State Library, under the bill's restrictions. Books are loaned to patrons of other libraries around the state through interlibrary loan.

"Is that book not going to fall under these guidelines? I'm trying to just really nail down who has that responsibility," Hanson said.

Rep. Shannon Roers Jones, R-Fargo, has wondered about excluding the State Library if the bill is needed.

"It seems like this is just an effort to avoid sending this in front of Appropriations and potentially having a negative recommendation coming out of Appropriations because of the size of the fiscal note," she told the House Judiciary Committee last week.

Boehm told that committee last week that "the State Library at this point has not properly gotten their vetting process down for Miller (obscenity) test material, and we simply want to give them an opportunity to work through that and analyze their process so that they can send out material that is not sexually explicit."

Costs

The State Library's fiscal notes changed from $3.6 million to $269,000, to $450,000 amid the judiciary panel's amendments.

The first fiscal note included an estimated 109 temporary staff and a full-time professional librarian to handle a review process of the State Library's fiction collection, ebooks and magazines.

State Librarian Mary Soucie said the second fiscal note changed due to new information last week from six public libraries as well as impacts to databases to take into account.

The $450,000 is a "rough estimate" for a "more complex," age-based computer filtering system for libraries in the Online Dakota Information Network, according to Soucie. The network known as ODIN is a consortium of libraries around the state.

It's unclear how much the bill might cost the 83 public libraries throughout North Dakota. Boehm said "there is some disagreement as to those costs."

Estimated costs to public libraries are not ones they could absorb, Soucie said.

"These would be additional staff that they would need above and beyond," Soucie told the House budget panel.

Klemin said "the point of this is, contrary to what the fiscal note says, is that these are things that shouldn't be such a big burden on the fiscal impact because either they are already required, (public libraries) are already doing it, or they are exempt from this."

$334 million?

The Bismarck Veterans Memorial Public Library's $334 million estimate is what Director Christine Kujawa said it would take to comply and "read, watch, and review every item in our collection and remove everything that might be construed as 'obscene' or 'sexually explicit,'" she told the Tribune.

The bill specifies "anywhere 'where minors are or may be invited as a part of the general public,' which would be the entire library," she said.

"Doing this in the time frame specified by the Legislature will require additional staff and funds to carry out this colossal task," Kujawa said in an email. "This doesnt cover reading and reviewing every item we purchase going forward, which is roughly 20,000 titles annually. The Legislature has not provided us with an answer as to how we would fund this ongoing."

Two bills

Another bill, House Bill 1205 by House Majority Leader Mike Lefor, R-Dickinson, awaits a House vote on concurrence with Senate amendments to send it to Gov. Doug Burgum's desk. That bill would remove or relocate "explicit sexual material" from public libraries' children's collections.

Supporters say the two bills protect children from pornography. Opponents say the bills are censorship.

The two bills define "explicit sexual material" as "any material which, taken as a whole, appeals to the prurient interest of minors; is patently offensive to prevailing standards in the adult community in North Dakota as a whole with respect to what is suitable material for minors; and taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value for minors."

Boehm's bill would criminalize with a misdemeanor charge the willful display of "explicit sexual material that is harmful to minors" at "newsstands or any other business establishment frequented by minors, or where minors are or may be invited as a part of the general public."

Boehm's bill would add public libraries and public school libraries to the latter places.

Employees of school districts, state agencies and public libraries could face a misdemeanor charge for willfully exposing "explicit sexual material" to a minor. A "public library for limited access for educational research purposes carried on at such an institution by adults only" is exempt from criminal liability under the bill.

Boehm's bill also would require public libraries and public school libraries to submit an annual report to lawmakers about "provider compliance with technology protection measures" the bill would require for digital or online library database resources for K-12 students, to prevent viewing of "explicit sexual material."

Boehm has cited research done by his daughter-in-law, her sister and other people who Boehm said uncovered "sexually explicit content" in 40 libraries statewide.

He told the Tribune the group curated 12 books by citing the American Library Association finding of the titles as the most challenged due to "sexually explicit graphics and/or language, profanity, violence, and depictions of child abuse."
By Caroline Kepnes

Random House. 448 pp. $28

- - -

It's safe to say that Joe Goldberg, with four books and the Netflix hit show "You" built around him, has become one of America's favorite fictional serial killers. It's an achievement he would both love and loathe, but that's the thing readers have come to know about Joe: He's a man of extremes. He's addicted to love, but hate (as in bloody murder) is always part of the journey.

In "For You and Only You," the fourth installment of author Caroline Kepnes's best-selling Joe Goldberg novels, the formula remains the same: Joe meets girl and immediately starts obsessing. He stalks, charms and lies his way into her life, before it all goes crazy (insert a few dead bodies here), because real women are not a one-dimensional male fantasy.

What changes with every book is the location - this time we're at Harvard - and which slice of society Joe is skewering. After New York, fake-it-till-you-make-it L.A. and small-town Washington state in the first three books, Joe sets his razor-sharp narration on the literati swanning about in Cambridge, Mass. Yes, it's a book about writing books, and yes, it's very meta. But Kepnes obviously knows the world well, so the zingers land with authenticity.

Who else knows that world well? Joe. He's been a bookseller for decades and has finally been crowned a real writer. During the pandemic, he penned a novel called "Me" (of course) and was accepted into a fully funded Harvard writing fellowship run by literary star Glenn Shoddy, author of "Scabies for Breakfast." In real life, Glenn prefers to drink whiskey for breakfast, boasts about how he's more successful than his novelist wife, Sly - who waxes on about "the liberating fun of removable wallpaper" but lives up to her name - and spends his time biking in a "cycopath" T-shirt. He also sees genius in Joe.

Joe's ego is bolstered by the praise, but what our autodidact quickly realizes is that he's not among other undiscovered, self-educated writers who spill their guts like Glenn advertised. He's surrounded by a nepo baby, a successful thriller writer, an Obie winner and plenty of talk about summer homes. His peers don't want to debate Faulkner, and Joe has "nothing to say about kayaks, cleaning ladies, or fried clams." With a chip on his shoulder the size of Harvard Yard, things are looking grim.

But this is a Joe Goldberg novel, which means it's time to welcome the pretty girl to the party. This time her name is Wonder Parish, and she's a blue-collar Bostonian with the accent to match. (Yes, her name sounds like some sham church that will take your money and soul, but remember "Peach" and "Love"? Kepnes stays on brand.) Wonder is also an autodidact, and Joe is sure "Harvard is playing matchmaker." He must know her, must have her, must place his Pulitzer next to hers on their mantel.

When not in class with the other "Shoddies" (Glenn's groupies), Wonder works at a Dunkin', still lives with her family, plays caretaker to her dad and is shocked that she was accepted as a fellow. Joe's not surprised, because he knows how the universe works: She was admitted just for him! And when he reads her book, "Faithful," he's sure she's a future literary star. Misogynist Glenn, who is happy to talk about Wonder's other assets, doesn't see her talent, and Joe is ready to play the hero - and the murderer - to make sure Wonder rises to the top.

The Joe Goldberg psyche - hopeless romantic who kills in the name of love - will not be new to fans of the series. But what makes "For You and Only You" stand out is how pitch-perfect Joe's voice is when he's "talking" to the Wonder who lives in his head. Not since the first book, "You," when he knew that "young person trying to make it in New York City . . . but with craft cocktails, and the right address" world so well, has his voice felt this assured. "You would loathe this woman in that way that only a woman can loathe another, the way she reeks of self-care and casual jaunts to the market," he declares to Wonder about Glenn's wife.

After Book 3, "You Love Me" (2021), which took Joe out of his comfort zone, he's fully back in it in Book 4. His voice is so confident that at times Kepnes puts it in all caps, and it feels right. Joe is that good when he's mad - and he is that. His attempt at a murder-free life was left in Washington state; with Wonder and New England's literati, Joe has plenty of reasons to get stressed and obsessed. One of those clever reasons is a new true-crime podcast called "The Body on Bainbridge," about a dead woman recently discovered in the place Joe just lived. A coincidence? Joe can only use that line for so long.

Netflix announced that the fifth season of "You," out in 2024, will be the show's last. With "For You and Only You," Kepnes has made her case that Joe and his bloody romances could easily go on in book form. Yes, it's completely unrealistic that Joe is still running free. Why is he living his life without a pseudonym? He's a writer now! Do these women he's dating even know how to Google? And where are the competent detectives?

It doesn't matter. Joe is an addictively charming antihero, and after four books, he still feels fresh and original. The Shoddies would be so jealous.

- - -

Karin Tanabe is the author of six novels, including "A Woman of Intelligence," "The Gilded Years" and the forthcoming "Sunset Crowd."
Arturo Elizondo, the CEO of The EVERY Company and a graduate from Harvard University, was recently nominated for the election to the Board of Overseers of Harvard University.

According to Harvard, the Board is important as the members help assure the institutions academic quality and securing its future.

Elizondo is one of eight nominees for the Overseer Board and there are an anticipated five vacancies.

Overseers serve six-year terms. Balloting began March 31 and concluded May 16 with only Harvard alumni being able to vote.

Harvard University must lead on climate, drive representation and prepare for a world where technological advances like AI will radically transform education as we know it, Elizondo said. We need to embrace change, not fear it. This is why I'm running.

Elizondo said he is firmly fighting to put action regarding the climate front and center in the universitys agenda. He also wishes to increase representation and ensure there is support for students and faculty from all backgrounds to thrive at Harvard. He hopes that his background from Laredo helps demonstrate how coming from a border area can bring various perspectives into matters that the Board discusses.

For Elizondo, being nominated to potentially serve on the Board is a full circle moment. He left Laredo when he was a teenager for the Harvard University campus and never thought he would meet so many new people or be able to accomplish as much as he has so far.

I came to Harvard as an 18 year old who didnt know if hed fit in, much less succeed, at a place like Harvard, Elizondo said. And now, to be selected to run for one of the governing board of Harvard University alongside so many distinguished leaders across sectors is quite surreal.

Elizondo asked Harvard alumni for their vote and said they should have already received an email titled "Harvard 2023 Elections with information on how to cast their vote.

Elizondo also thanked various organizations and individuals who have endorsed his candidacy, such as the Coalition for a Diverse Harvard, First Generation Harvard Alumni, Harvard Asian American Alumni Alliance, Harvard Black Alumni Society, Harvard Gender and Sexuality Caucus, Harvard Latino Alumni Alliance, Native American Alumni of Harvard University, Harvard South Asian Alumni Alliance and the Harvard Tamil Sangam Alumni.

In an article published for Harvard Magazine, Elizondo also noted that his run for the Board position holds personal significance as he wants to stress the importance of caring and listening to students, especially as one of his friends died by suicide when he was at the university.

I lost a friend to suicide at Harvard, he told the publication. And I want to ensure that story does not repeat itself. Friends have shared how deeply it affected their mental health. Its easy to feel less than when surrounded by so many other incredible humans. I want to help make this community a place where everyone can thrive.

He also went on to note how the university changed his life in immeasurably positive ways.

I never thought I would be a founder, he added. I never thought that as a government concentrator Id end up leading a biotechnology company working on climate change and global food security. Harvard helped me believe that I could actually change the world, and Ive spent my entire professional career challenging the status quo.

I am an out-of-the-box thinker, committed to using every resource available to tackle our worlds biggest problems  and the university is in an incredible position to continue caring for its members as well as changing the world. I used to walk through the Dexter Gate every morning, noting its message: Depart to serve better thy country and thy kind. Harvard is an incredible institution with so much talent that can be a powerful force for good, and a massive catalyst for change. I want to help unleash that potential.

As for his company, the CEO of The EVERY Company said that everything is currently going smoothly as they are now trying to put all of their efforts into scaling.

We spent the first six years in deep R&D, the last year we spent commercializing and now we're focusing on increasing production, Elizondo said. Were about to open our new 50,000 square foot state-of-the-art biotechnology laboratories next week.

The company has also gotten also notable endorsements and investment opportunities as Actress Anne Hathaway in February pointed out that she was investing into the scaling efforts of the The EVERY Company in efforts to accelerate the worlds transition to animal-free protein.

The need to transform our food system has never been clearer or more urgent, Hathaway said. An important piece of the puzzle is in nature-equivalent animal proteins, such as EVERY has been developing. Im proud to back this vision of a better future.

The news dovetails with the rise of proteins made by fermentation. Investments in platforms like EVERYs  which uses fermentation to brew proteins without animals or the climate impacts of factory farms  totaled $1.7 billion in a recent period.

An early leader in the space, EVERY is the creator of the worlds first animal-free pepsin and egg proteins.

We are thrilled to partner with visionary investors like Anne to drive forward our plans to reimagine the way we feed and nourish the world, Elizondo said. Ultimately, our vision is to deliver animal-free protein to everyone, everywhere  and help set the table for the better food future we all deserve.
Laredo assistant city manager Riazul Mia was recognized by City Council on Monday, April 17 for his 27 years of service to the community as he heads into retirement with his last day of work coming Friday, April 28.

Thank you for this recognition. Im really honored for this. I thank the management and mayor and City Council for giving me the opportunity to serve the community, Mia said. I served under seven city managers and four mayors. We have seen a lot of changes, but sometimes the changes are good.

Mia is originally from Bangladesh where he obtained a bachelors degree in civil engineering from Bangladesh University. He earned a masters of civil and environmental engineering from Louisiana State University  which is why his cake presented at Mondays meeting was purple and gold  and he earned a masters in public administration from Texas A&M International University.

Throughout his career, Mia has served for a wide variety of organizations and boards including the American Society of Civil Engineers, the Texas City Manager Association, the Texas Floodplain Management Association, the Texas Water Utilities Association, Underground Construction Technology, the Texas Water Development Board Region and more. He is a registered professional engineer in Texas and is a certified floodplain manager.

Mia first joined the City of Laredo as the pollution prevention coordinator. He also served as a civil engineer and environmental manager before becoming the environmental services director in 2001. He also worked as the utilities director for five years before beginning his current appointment the past three years as assistant city manager.

Decades of serving together

For me, standing here is bittersweet. Ria was already here three years when I came in, and he embraced me with open arms, Laredo Deputy City Manager Rosario Cabello said. We became good friends throughout. He is retiring after 27 years. He has been a true, loyal public servant, a friend and a wonderful leader.

Cabello reflected on how Mias departure leaves her and John Orfila as the last of the original directors who came in together.

Us dinosaurs are John Ofila, Ria and myself. Thats it, she said. There was a legacy of other individuals in the past who served and have made great names for themselves in various projects. Ria is leaving a legacy behind, very big shoes to fill.

Mia was quick to recognize the dinosaurs for what they meant to his career.

Id like to especially thank those old dinosaurs Rosario, Orfila, (John) Porter, Jose Castillo and Jesus (Olivares), he said. These are the people I worked with most. Thank you for your dedication and hard work.

A widespread impact

In addressing City Council, Cabello highlighted a wide range of projects Mia was involved in throughout his 27 years serving the city. They included the Chacon Creek Restoration Project, the River Vega Master Plan and many more. She also discussed how he was instrumental during his tenure in issuing out $125 million worth of projects.

Ria thank you very much for your leadership, she said. All of us here behind me, the directors, are so privileged to have worked under you. Thank you very much, and God bless you.

Mia expressed pride in how the city has gone from 50 square miles when he arrived in 1996 to about 110 square miles today.

Every single development project except the last three years, I was involved in this, he said. Every single big park, from Father McNaboe to North Central to Independent Hills, I was involved in it. It is not just me, it is always a team effort. We have very good directors, and we always had the support of city management, of course the mayor and City Council. Thats why were able to do it.

He also spoke about the pride he takes in strides made to reduce flooding in Laredo.

We dont have flooding any more. We are able to reduce the flooding thanks to this City Council supporting the drainage fees and those bonds, Mia said. If you remember, in the 90s every time we got rain, the entire McPherson, Gale Street, everything used to get flooded. Those are no longer there. That is one of the biggest accomplishments we all are able to do.

Family support

Several members of City Council also recognized the effort of Mias wife Beauty and son Ronald for helping support his career over the past three decades. This included District VII Councilmember and Mayor Pro Temp Vanessa Perez who said she has known his wife longer than she has known him.

Thank you for all the help you have given me. I know that District VII has not been your favorite district to deal with. Youre a trooper for that, Perez said. I want to also recognize I have known his wife Beauty longer than Ive known him, so I want to say hi to Beauty and thank you and your son for all the support you gave him over the years so he could serve the public and do his job. It is pretty much a 24/7 job. It is not easy. I want to acknowledge you all, and thank you Ria for everything.

Mia also showed gratitude toward his family for making his service to the city possible.

"Id like to thank my wife Beauty and my son Ronald. They have sacrificed. It is long hours of work, but they sacrifice it, he said. We do have a lot of a younger generation. Its time for me to step aside and give some young folks an opportunity to shine. I think we have a lot of them. They will shine. I do believe in public service, and I do believe our purpose in this life is to serve others. May God bless all of you.

Guiding the councilmembers

When he began addressing City Council, Mia said he hoped he wouldnt get emotional, and District IV Councilmember Alberto Torres Jr. quickly joked in response saying, If you do, you have time to withdraw that retirement document.

The sentiment behind the joke was sincere as Torres spoke highly of Mia including recognizing him for serving on the Good Neighbor Environmental Board which advises the president and Congress via the EPA.

We were proud to have a Laredoan on that board. That was a major accomplishment during your tenure here with us Ria, he said. Obviously because of our geographical location of advising on border needs, we recognize your hard work with that board through that appointment.

Torres also spoke about appreciating Mia for always being truthful and direct no matter the situation.

Ria is a person that what you see is what you get. He did not care if it was a councilmember or a mayor that would call him, he would say it like it is. If it was no, it was no. If it was yes, it was yes, Torres said. Thats what really helped him get through seven city managers and I dont know how many councils and mayors.

It was always a pleasure working with him and calling him at any time, because he addresses things immediately and continues to do so even on his last couple of days. Ive put him to the test. He cares about his job and he cares about this community he calls home after being in Louisiana. It is bittersweet to see you go, because you are a wealth of knowledge in our community, to this city, to this institution, your knowledge in our utility system.

The utility system has been a source of controversy over the years due to issues with the water supply, and Torres said he believed Mia unjustly received a large portion of the criticism.

When we underwent the utilities and water crisis, unfortunately Ria took a lot of the heat for that. I would tell people that if anyone advocated for us to invest in our utilities infrastructure, it was Ria, Torres said. For whatever reason, it was the different leadership decisions and policy decisions that were made that his advice was never followed. Ultimately, he got to say, I told you so. That goes to show how important Rias role not only as assistant city manager but as utilities director was to this community and this city.

While Perez and Torres spoke to their years of serving alongside Mia, several newer councilmembers expressed similar gratitude despite their limited time together.

Ive been here just over two years Ria, and you have truly been a mentor to me, District V Councilmember Ruben Gutierrez Jr. said. Youve really helped me out with so many things. You answered my calls any time of the day, any time of the night. We had an emergency and you were there, you answered our phone calls. You were there for the community, you were there for us.

I consider you a true friend. Anything you should ever need, you let us know, please let me know. Thank you. It is a true pleasure working with you Ria.

District II Councilmember Daisy Campos-Rodriguez is new to City Council but has a lengthy relationship with Mia due to her husband previously serving in the same role.

Thank you for this almost seven years of friendship. Ive been on council less than six months, but youve been here quite a while, and my husband was one of the ones who had the pleasure to work with you, she said. Thank you for everything you have done not only for me but for him as well. I talk on his behalf. You have been one of the fairest individuals in this city, and Ill never forget how much you have believed in me, and I promise you I will not give up.

Other recently elected councilmembers all mentioned how helpful Mia has been for them adjusting to their new roles.

"I appreciate everything you did, District I Councilmember Gilbert Gonzalez said. I hope you enjoy your retirement to the fullest, and all I can say is we need more Rias in this world.

It has only been a few months, but it is clear your dedication to your work, District VI Councilmember Dr. Tyler King said. I admire you very deeply. Congrats to you.

As a newbie, Ill tell you that you offered your expertise to all the new councilmembers. Speaking on behalf of us, we really appreciate that, District III Councilmember Melissa Cigarroa said. You were very honest and very upfront about what the challenges are the city faces and where you think we should be concentrating our efforts. It was greatly appreciated. Thank you so much for sharing that with us, and I hope you will continue to do that even if its in an informal way. Thank you so much for your service.
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Just two weeks before jury selection is scheduled to begin, Ronald Anthony Burgos-Aviles appeared in court for a hearing on suppressing an incident that happened 15 days before the double murder of Grizelda Hernandez, 28, and their 1-year-old son, Dominic Alexander in April 2018.

Burgos-Aviles, a former Supervisory Border Patrol Agent, is accused of killing his lover and the son they shared together. They were killed in April 2018 near Father Charles McNaboe Park in northwest Laredo.

District Attorney Isidro Alaniz argued before the court that introducing evidence and testimony about an injury sustained by baby Dominic approximately 15 days before the murders.

This crime didnt happen in a vacuum, Alaniz told the court. It is important to know from the records of this case and the record of discovery going back to 2018, 2019 that the defense has known about this.

The target of the murder from the beginning was baby Dominic, Alaniz said. It began after Hernandez served Burgos-Aviles with the child support documents from the Texas Attorney Generals Office at his place of work.

This case began on the 25th of March of 2018 when after 18-months of baby Dominic's life, this defendant was absent. And it was triggered by Grizelda going to the Texas Attorney Generals office and lawfully asking for child support that he then wants to meet his son, Alaniz told the court.

The visit was cut short after Grizelda left Dominic alone with Burgos-Aviles and returned to find the baby crying uncontrollably because of a left thigh injury. It was initially thought to be a spider bite, but in the following days, the baby developed atrophy and needed to see a specialist.

Theres text messages, conversations going on, and this leg injury is getting worse, Alaniz said. Where they notify the defendant that they have to go see a specialist because the baby has atrophy and can no longer walk.

Burgos-Aviles requested to see his son once more and on that second visit, baby Dominic was killed.

Alaniz argued that the murders didnt happen in a vacuum where Burgos-Aviles just showed up and allegedly murdered Grizelda and Dominic. Introducing this incident at trial goes to the story and motive as to what was going on.

This is how the case started! Serving the father with a child support lawsuit. That's why the baby was killed, Alaniz told the judge.

After the murders, a search by the Laredo Police Department discovered that Burgos-Aviles was in possession of an 18-gauge needle in his gym bag that was consistent with the injury that baby Dominic had.

Burgos-Aviles defense attorney Eduardo Pena argued that the indictment makes no mention of the evidence prosecutors are claiming to be part of the murders.

When they took the child to the emergency room, the ER doctor said it was a spider bite and Dr. Jose Rodriguez said the same thing, Pena said. We dont think the state can prove this beyond a reasonable doubt. Its highly prejudicial evidence that is used to reach a verdict based on these highly prejudicial allegations that cant be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

Alaniz countered that the incident is the catalyst of the whole case.

Chief Assistant District Attorney Marisela Jacaman added that there is no way that defense can say they were unaware of this incident being introduced to trial since there is previous testimony, text messages, incident reports and video evidence of the incident.

We have brought up all the discovery, and it was brought up to show that the defense is not surprised and therefore we are not in violation of (Texas law), Jacaman told the court.

Texas law states that prosecutors are required to notify defense before trial about the state's intention to introduce into evidence in their case evidence of other crimes, wrongs or acts.

In February, attorneys for Burgos-Aviles argued that due to the significant media and online coverage of the case, the former agent would not be able to receive a fair trial in Webb County. His motion for a change in venue was denied.

Jury selection is expected to begin on May 2 with the trial expected to start on June 26 in the 49th District Court.
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KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP)  An 84-year-old white man in Kansas City, Missouri, was charged Monday with first-degree assault for shooting a Black teen who mistakenly went to the man's home to pick up his younger brothers.

Prosecuting Attorney Zachary Thompson said at a news conference that there was a racial component Thursday night when Andrew Lester twice shot 16-year-old Ralph Yarl, who is recovering at home after being released from the hospital. But nothing in the charging documents says the shooting was racially motivated, Thompson clarified.

We understand how frustrating this has been but I can assure you the criminal justice system is working and will continue to work, Thompson said.

The shooting outraged many in Kansas City and across the country. Civic and political leaders  including President Joe Biden  demanded justice. Some, including lawyers for Yarl, pressed the racial dimension of the case.

Yarl, an honor student and all-state band member, was supposed to pick up his two younger brothers when he approached the wrong house at roughly 10 p.m. Lester came to the door and shot Yarl in the forehead  then shot him again, in the right forearm.

No words were exchanged before the shooting, the probable cause statement said. But afterward, as Yarl got up to run, he heard Lester yell, Dont come around here, the statement said.

Yarl ran to multiple homes asking for help before finding someone who would call the police, the statement said.

Rev. Vernon Howard, president of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference of Greater Kansas City, called the shooting a heinous and hate-filled crime. Vice President Kamala Harris wrote on Twitter that "No child should ever live in fear of being shot for ringing the wrong doorbell. The Missouri Senate held a moment of silence for Yarl on Monday.

The civil rights attorneys for Yarls family, Ben Crump and Lee Merritt, said in a statement that Biden called Yarls family and offered prayers for Ralphs health and for justice.

Gun violence against unarmed Black individuals must stop, the lawyers statement read. Our children should feel safe, not as though they are being hunted.

Yarls supporters plan to hold a rally Tuesday evening in Kansas City.

The assault charge carries a penalty of up to life in prison. Lester also was charged with armed criminal action, which has a penalty range of three to 15 years in prison. Lester was not charged with a hate crime. Thompson said Missouris statute is considered a lesser felony than first-degree assault, and carries a less severe penalty.

Missouri is among roughly 30 states with Stand Your Ground laws, which allow for the use of deadly force in self-defense, but the prosecutor determined the shooting was not in self defense.

An arrest warrant was issued but Lester was not yet in custody, Thompson said.

Lester told police that he lives alone and had just gone to bed when he heard his doorbell, according to the probable cause statement. He said he picked up his gun and went to the door, where he saw a Black male pulling on the exterior storm door handle and thought someone was breaking in.

A number for Lester was not in service on Monday evening and it was not immediately clear whether he had an attorney to speak on his behalf.

The shooting happened in a middle class neighborhood in north Kansas City. Yarl didn't have a phone with him and went to the wrong block, his aunt, Faith Spoonmore, wrote on a GoFundMe page set up to help pay medical bills. By Monday afternoon, $1.4 million had been raised.

Police Chief Stacey Graves said that Yarl's parents asked him to pick up his brothers at a home on 115th Terrace, but he mistakenly went to 115th Street, the Kansas City Star reported.

Yarl is a bass clarinetist who earned Missouri All-State Band honorable mention and who plays several instruments in the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra of Kansas City, Spoonmore wrote. A statement from the North Kansas City School District described Yarl as an excellent student and talented musician.

Spoonmore said Yarl is doing well physically but has a lot of trauma to overcome emotionally.

By Monday afternoon, the home where the shooting happened had been vandalized. Black spray-paint on the side of the house showed a heart with 16 in the middle. Eggs splattered the front windows and the door.

A message seeking comment from Republican Gov. Mike Parson, a staunch gun rights supporter, wasnt immediately returned.

Crump, who has represented families in several high-profile cases of Black people being shot, including those of Trayvon Martin, Michael Brown, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and George Floyd, questioned why the shooter wasn't arrested and charged immediately.

We all believe that if the roles were reversed and this was a Black citizen who shot a 16-year-old for merely ringing his doorbell, they would have arrested him, and he wouldnt have slept in his bed that night, Crump said.

Two days after Yarl was shot, a 20-year-old woman was killed by a homeowner in Upstate New York Saturday after the car she was in drove to the wrong address. Washington County Sheriff Jeffrey Murphy said Kaylin Gillis was in a car with three others looking for a friends house.

As the car was turning around, Kevin Monahan came out and fired two shots, one of which struck Gillis. Monahan was charged with second-degree murder.

___

Salter reported from O'Fallon, Missouri. Nick Ingram in Kansas City and Summer Ballentine in Columbia, Missouri, contributed to this report.
Former KPRC 2 weekend anchor Syan Rhodes just announced her departure from the channel last week, but she already has a new gig lined up. On Tuesday, Harris County Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones announced that the award-winning journalist has joined her team as press secretary. Rhodes' final newscasts were over the weekend.

"We are thrilled to add Syan to our team of talented professionals at Precinct 4," Briones said in a news release. "A bold leader and respected journalist, Syan embodies the servant's heart, hustle, and higher standards needed to best serve the constituents of Precinct 4."

A native Houstonian, Rhodes grew up in Sunnyside and Third Ward and attended Dodson Elementary School, T.H. Rogers School and Episcopal High School. She is a graduate of the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University. During her time as a journalist covering her hometown, Rhodes told the stories of underserved and underrepresented communities and also extensively reported on the Harris County Commissioners Court, city and state politics. Rhodes also traveled on the presidential campaign trail as a political reporter in 2016 and 2020.

"I always viewed my work as a journalist as a public service, and I'm honored to be able to continue that work in alignment with Commissioner Briones' vision to move Precinct 4 forward," Rhodes said in the release.

On April 10, Rhodes took to Facebook to announce that after working at KPRC 2 for almost nine years, she would be leaving Channel 2. Before that, she was off-air for a month. "It has been a blessing to come back to my hometown and serve my community as an advocate for truth and a voice for the voiceless," Rhodes wrote. "I am forever grateful for how you have embraced me and supported me for nearly 9 years, welcoming me into your homes, literally and figuratively. to tell stories that matter."

Rhodes also revealed that she was on leave for four weeks after becoming a licensed foster parent. "I took time off to get acquainted with the little one and settled as we begin a new journey together," Rhodes wrote. "It has been a whirlwind and an already life-changing experience and my family and I are so honored to be able to love and provide a safe place for this special child.
West Texas A&M University faculty leaders have called for a vote of no confidence this week to condemn President Walter Wendler less than a month after he came under fire from students and free speech groups for canceling a campus drag show.

In a resolution obtained by The Texas Tribune, faculty senate leaders accused Wendler of abusing his role as president by running the university based on his own religious ideology. They said he has exhibited a pattern of divisive misogynistic, homophobic and non-inclusive rhetoric that stands in stark contrast with the Core Values of the university.

They also argued that Wendler has presented his personal opinions and religious beliefs in online blog posts as the official position of the university. Faculty leaders said those opinions go against the universitys mission, violate state and federal law, damage the universitys reputation and hurt fundraising efforts.

We do not take this step lightly, Ashley Pinkham, faculty senate president, wrote in a letter to all professors Monday announcing the vote. However, we believe that the mission to provide intellectually challenging, critically reflective, and inclusive academic programs at a well-respected, high-quality institution of higher education is at jeopardy. We believe we must act now to restore the reputation of West Texas A&M University.

The vote started Monday morning and will go through Friday afternoon. A university spokesperson confirmed the vote is in progress but declined to comment. The no-confidence vote is nonbinding and largely symbolic, but faculty hope it will send a message to the Texas A&M System Board of Regents and Chancellor John Sharp.

In a letter to the campus community last month, Wendler canceled a student drag show fundraiser and drew criticism from students when he argued that the performances are derisive, divisive and demoralizing misogyny.

Student leaders in a campus LGBTQ group sued Wendler, the university and the Texas A&M System, alleging he violated their First Amendment rights by canceling the show.

Federal Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk denied the students request to immediately reinstate the student event. The case is still pending. Sharp declined to comment on the resolution, citing pending litigation.

But the no-confidence vote goes beyond the recent fracas over the campus drag show. Faculty who spoke to the Tribune and requested to remain anonymous out of fear of retaliation say Wendlers handling of the drag show was the last straw for many of them who feel he has exhibited poor leadership with other issues.

In the resolution, faculty accused Wendler of actively encouraging prospective students to avoid attending a four-year university immediately after high school and encouraging them to attend community college first, which they say has led to enrollment declines.

They point to Wendlers Your Community, Your University tour, in which he visited 66 high schools in the Texas Panhandle, telling students to start at a community college first, rather than borrowing money to attend a four-year university. Faculty leaders say in the resolution that Wendler has continued to encourage prospective students to start at a community college, even as the number of community college transfers to the university has declined.

According to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, enrollment at the public university in Canyon dropped between fall 2019 and 2022 by nearly 700 students to 9,275 at the start of this academic year.

The resolution also pointed to a spring prospective student event where only 32 potential students registered, calling it a significant decrease.

The faculty senate argued Wendlers actions as president are part of a larger pattern, citing issues at his prior position as chancellor at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, where he was removed for a communication breakdown with university leadership.

Wendler was also criticized at the time for pushing back on the SIU Boards decision to extend certain medical benefits to the same-sex partners of employees several years before Illinois legalized gay marriage in 2014. A Southern Illinoisan article quoted Wendler as saying the measure would encourage sinful behavior. In 2018, Wendler told the Tribune the quote was taken out of context.

Disclosure: Texas A&M University and West Texas A&M University have been financial supporters of The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that is funded in part by donations from members, foundations and corporate sponsors. Financial supporters play no role in the Tribune's journalism. Find a complete list of them here.

This article originally appeared in The Texas Tribune at https://www.texastribune.org/2023/04/17/west-texas-tamu-walter-wendler-no-confidence/.

The Texas Tribune is a member-supported, nonpartisan newsroom informing and engaging Texans on state politics and policy. Learn more at texastribune.org.
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BRUSSELS (AP)  Environmental groups have started legal action against the European Unions executive branch in a bid to block a move to include natural gas and nuclear power generation on a list of sustainable activities.

The list proposed by the European Commission drew fierce criticism and accusations of greenwashing. On Tuesday, Greenpeace said that it was filing a lawsuit at the European Court of Justice, the top EU court, after the commission refused to reconsider its move.

Greenpeace is asking the European Court of Justice to declare the inclusion of fossil gas and nuclear "as invalid."

Separately, ClientEarth, WWFs European Policy Office, Transport & Environment (T&E), and BUND are challenging only the decision to include gas. They say the fossil fuel cant be considered sustainable because of its adverse environmental impact.

The green labeling system from the European Commission defines what qualifies as an investment in sustainable energy. Initially, it didn't initially include gas or nuclear.

Polluters are already using this fake label to syphon green finance away from where its needed, Greenpeace EU sustainable finance campaigner Ariadna Rodrigo said. If you save money with a green pension fund, for example, that fund could now be supporting the expansion of the fossil fuel and nuclear industries. Thats unacceptable, and thats why were in court today.

Amid Russias war in Ukraine, the addition of gas and nuclear has divided the EU's 27 member countries, and even political groupings in the European Parliament. But EU lawmakers last year voted to back the European Commission's proposal and add both to the list.

The four groups opposed only to gas said that classifying it as sustainable risked increasing the blocs gas dependency by boosting demand.

This would expose the EU to more volatility, dependence on producing countries and supply crises in the future  with potentially further devastating impacts on household bills, they said.

The groups also claim that giving gas a sustainable label clashes with other EU laws and doesn't respect the EUs commitments and obligations under the 2015 Paris climate accords target for limiting global warming.

The question of nuclear power has divided environmentalists, energy experts and governments for years. Some argue its an important source of energy, because its produced with almost no carbon emissions and thus clean, while others say the risks of nuclear reactions are too great and infrastructure is slow and costly to build. Liquid natural gas, clearly a fossil fuel, is roundly criticized in environmental circles.

With gas and nuclear energy part of the EU classification system for sustainable activities under certain conditions, it's easier for private investors to inject money into both.

The EU is aiming to reach climate neutrality by 2050 and to cut greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030. The commission says the classification system is crucial to direct investments into sustainable energy. It estimates that about 350 billion euros ($382 billion) of investment per year will be needed to meet the 2030 targets.

___

Follow APs climate coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/climate
ROME (AP)  Bogged down by leftist opposition amendments, Italy's Senate on Tuesday delayed the start of a debate on the right-wing government's contested immigration crackdown, while a minister's warning to Italians about ethnic substitution" triggered anger.

Agriculture and Food Sovereignty Minister Francesco Lollobrigida, made the controversial comment in a speech at a labor union gathering, Lollobrigida, who hails from Premier Giorgia Meloni's Brothers of Italy, a party with neo-fascist roots, warned Italians against surrendering to the idea that they have fewer children and substitute themselves with someone else.

Lollobrigidas words are disgusting, said lawmaker Elly Schlein who leads the Democratic Party, Parliaments largest opposition force. She said the comments evoke the notion of white supremacy and hark back to the 1930s, when Benito Mussolinis Fascist regime rewarded Italians who had large families.

Meloni campaigned for election as Italy's first far-right premier last fall on a platform that included a pledge to help Italians have children. The country has one of the worlds lowest birth rates, and a significant percentage of births are now registered to non native-born Italians. In Italy's northern Emilia-Romagna region, for instance, 24% of births occur in families where both parents are migrants, according to the national statistics agency.

With the new proposed legislation, Meloni and her right-wing coalition government allies want to eliminate or vastly limit the special protection" status Italian authorities have granted to thousands of asylum-seekers who are unlikely to have their applications approved. Holders of that status can stay in Italy for two years and legally work during that time.

But with the Democratic Party presenting hundreds of amendments, the Senate was forced to delay the start of debate till Wednesday. The lower Chamber of Deputies will take up the proposed crackdown after Senate passage. Meloni's coalition has a comfortable majority in both chambers of Parliament.

Successive Italian governments have pressed their EU partners for years, largely in vain, to take in many of the hundreds of thousands of asylum-seekers who reach Italy's Mediterranean shores. Most risk the dangerous, expensive sea voyage in hopes of finding family or work in northern Europe, but EU rules require them to apply for asylum in the country where they landed.

During a state visit to Poland this week, Italian President Sergio Mattarella, whose post is above the political fray, championed solidarity. No state, alone, can deal with such an epochal problem,'' he said in a speech. But the European Union can do it with coordinated and well-organized action."

And this ... calls for a new policy of immigration and asylum within the Union, overcoming old rules that by now are prehistoric," Mattarella said in his blunt appeal.

Meloni unveiled the first stage of her government's approach to stemming unauthorized migration last month, when she led a Cabinet meeting in a Calabrian beach town near where dozens of migrants died in the shipwreck of a smugglers' boat.

The Cabinet decreed a new crime  people smuggling that results in the death of migrants  punishable by up to 30 years in prison.

At least 91 people died  and 80 people survived  in the shipwreck just off Cutro's beach, prompting questions over whether Italian rescue vessels should have gone to the aid of the boat as it was buffeted by high waves.

"The signal that we wanted to give right away was that the smugglers can't do what they want and that in Italy you arrive in a legal way,'' Meloni's minister for parliamentary relations, Luca Ciriani, said in an interview with Corriere della Sera newspaper published Tuesday.

But further measures were needed, he said, contending that Italy's current rules on migrants were more permissive than those of other EU countries. Here, thanks to humanitarian protection, whoever should be expelled finds the way to stay," the minister was quoted as saying.

Among those demonstrating a few blocks from the Senate for the special protection status to stay was Mamadou Kouassi, a migrant from Ivory Coast. He recounted how he arrived in Italy after members of the Italian coast guard rescued him at sea in 2005.

We live in this country, and we want residency permits. We want to work and participate in the economy and development of this country,'' he said.

Meloni's government already has made it more challenging for charity rescue boats to operate in the central Mediterranean. Such boats now are ordered to disembark their rescued passengers at mainland ports far from the area of the sea that has been most deadly for migrants.

___

AP Videojournalist Gianfranco Stara contributed to this report.

___

Follow APs coverage of global migration at https://apnews.com/hub/migration
Sabina Mammadli

The secret of strong cooperation lies in mutual respect and trust, as well as common goals and interests. When countries prioritize these factors, they can build meaningful and sustainable cooperation that benefits all parties involved. This has always been the case with Azerbaijan and Israel, who throughout the history of bilateral ties have supported each others territorial integrity and proved to be trustworthy partners in various spheres.

The opening of the Azerbaijani embassy in Israels Tel Aviv has been another step in the direction of bilateral partnership. Not long after this historic act, Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen is due to visit Azerbaijans Baku, where he is expected to take part in the next meeting of the Azerbaijan-Israel intergovernmental commission, which will be held on April 19, as well as hold a number of meetings with the country's officials. The minister is accompanied by a business delegation of 20 Israeli companies in the field of cybersecurity, homeland security, water supply, and agriculture, which further indicates that the cooperation between the two countries is limitless.

The trade turnover between Azerbaijan and Israel in January-February 2023 amounted to $334.1 million, which is 26.36 percent more than in the same period last year. Such statistics serve to prove that the high-level cooperation between Azerbaijan and Israel is beneficial for both states.

In a comment to Azernews, Director of Azerbaijan Jewish Media Center Nasimi Abilov talked about the visit of the Israeli FM, as well as the future prospects of cooperation between the two countries.

Noting that Cohens visit coincides with International Holocaust Remembrance Day, Abilov added that it also follows the opening of the Azerbaijani embassy in Israel, during which the foreign minister was invited to visit Baku.

Let us inform you that Eli Cohen is visiting Azerbaijan for the first time as a foreign minister. If we take into account that Israel's relations and its status in the world are vast, then the importance of the visit to Azerbaijan can be noted, the director stated.

Having noted further prospects of cooperation between Israel and Azerbaijan, Abilov stressed that the relations of mutual friendship and cooperation between the two countries are based not only on economic and strategic benefits, but also on traditional historical, and cultural roots. He also added that the political relations between the two countries are also at a high level.

For many years now, Israel has become the main supplier of weapons and high technologies to Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan has received weapons and military equipment worth about 5 billion dollars so far from its ally in the Middle East. Such an agreement brought only a favor to Azerbaijan, he remarked.

Furthermore, the expert stressed that Azerbaijan and Israel have become key regional players for each other, especially by cooperating in the sectors that both countries need most.

The studying and promotion of new ways of economic, business and trade relations are being successfully carried out. Thus, relations between Azerbaijan and Israel are not limited to trade and arms import. Since both countries consider Iran a "regional antagonist", the concept of military cooperation between the two states has deepened. Officials in Tehran view these military ties as a threat to Iran's security. Nevertheless, bilateral relations in all fields will continue at the same pace of development, and this will bring success to both nations at the regional and international levels, he added.

To finalize, Abilov pointed out that both countries need close cooperation with each other from a broad political perspective and to ensure that these links are based not only on mutual interests in trade and security issues but also on long-standing traditions of Jewish-Azerbaijani friendship.
It's been 90 years since North Dakota's government featured an agency dedicated to the recruitment and assistance of foreign workers. A proposal approved by lawmakers would see a state-run immigration office reestablished.

Both chambers of the state Legislature approved Senate Bill 2142, which would create a workforce-focused immigration office within the Department of Commerce. The bill sponsored by Sen. Tim Mathern, D-Fargo, will go to Gov. Doug Burgum. A spokesman for the Republican governor did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The two employees within the immigration office would be charged with:

Developing a statewide strategy to help businesses recruit and retain foreign labor.

Creating a pilot program to support businesses pursuing or employing legal immigrants.

Advising policymakers on immigrant integration and foreign labor issues.

The office also would be permitted to contract with other state agencies and private organizations to facilitate the arrival and integration of immigrant workers. The agency would not be allowed to provide legal advice to immigrants or to businesses seeking foreign workers.

Creating the two positions within the immigration office would cost $485,000 over the next two-year budget cycle.

Matherns proposal also would require the Commerce Department to conduct a study determining North Dakota's immigration opportunities and the immigration office's goals before the 2025 legislative session.

Proponents of the bipartisan legislation say the state needs immigrant workers to fill workforce gaps and that providing small business owners with a public resource could facilitate more inmigration.

A recent report suggests more than 17,000 jobs are open in North Dakota, but officials suspect thousands more positions are vacant but not posted by employers.

A public immigration office existed in North Dakota and its territorial predecessor, but state lawmakers terminated the post in 1933.

The elimination of the office coincided with the beginning of a gradual decline in North Dakotas population, which continued until the Bakken oil boom in the late 2000s.
Another suspect remains at large and the Collegedale Police Department asks for your help in identifying this individual. She is described as a black female, approximately 200 lbs, and in her mid-twenties.
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Alabama State University is partnering on a new project to make free mental health resources more widely available to students at historically Black colleges and universities
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Officials say Nashville International Airport reopened Concourse C on Sunday after it was briefly evacuated due to the presence of a noxious odor."
While other states, like Montana, are looking to ban the TikTok entirely, last week, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee signed a bill that would ban all apps that are associated with the People's Republic of China on public college campuses WiFi.
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Longford's Dr Deirdre Flynn is among the inaugural membership of the newly founded Young Academy of Ireland (YAI).

Dr Deirdre Flynn, who is from Killashee, is a lecturer in 21st-century literature at Mary Immaculate College in Limerick and is among forty academics from across the island of Ireland to be inducted into the YAI and will serve a four-year term.

The Young Academy Ireland (YAI) is a new interdisciplinary organisation of early career researchers and innovators (ECRIs) and brings together individuals who will work collaboratively for the benefit of society.

Young Academies provide a multidisciplinary platform that allows their members to exchange diverse views and experiences, to contribute effectively to the development of all-island research and cultural life, to ensure that ECRIs are adequately represented and actively participate in discussions that address global issues. The YAI is an initiative of the Royal Academy of Ireland.

Speaking as it was announced that she was among the inaugural intake, Dr Flynn said: "I am delighted to have been selected as a member of the inaugural Young Academy of Ireland. This Royal Academy of Ireland initiative is part of a global network, and I am excited to be able to contribute to this forum."

Dr Flynn added, "I look forward to working collaboratively with members on key issues in Higher Education and society, and in particular addressing issues like academic precarity."

The YAI will focus on a broad range of programmes to promote multidisciplinary experiences; develop networks, provide mentoring and peer support, engage in policy debate, respond to societal challenges and foster international and interdisciplinary collaboration.

This new Academy will also engage in outreach activities, help to improve public understanding of how research works and contributes to societal benefits and strengthen high level skills among early career researchers and innovators.

Dr Deirdre Flynn has published widely on Precarity, Contemporary literature, Irish Studies, Haruki Murakami, Migration, and Literary Urban studies.

Her newest co-edited collection, Austerity and Irish women's writing and culture 1980 - 2020 with Dr Ciara Murphy has just been published with Routledge.

She co-edited two collections on Irish Literature with Palgrave Macmillan: Irish Urban Fictions and Representations of Loss in Irish Literature. Deirdre is the secretary of the International Association for the Study of Irish Literatures (IASIL) and edits the Irish Womens Writing Network blog.

She has worked in University of Galway (formerly NUIG), University of Limerick and University College Dublin where she received an award for Teaching Excellence.

She coordinates the MA in Modern English Literature at Mary Immaculate College.
A man has been seriously injured after being struck by a car in an incident which also saw shots fired at a house.

A second man was also injured.

Gardai are investigating the incident which took place in the Jobstown area of Dublin on Monday evening.

A Garda spokesperson said at around 5pm in Kiltalown area a number of shots were fired at a house and a man in his 30s was seriously injured after he was stuck by a car.

He was taken to hospital where his conditions has been described as critical but stable.

The second man, who is aged in his 20s, received injuries that are not life threatening.

Shortly after the incident, a car was discovered on fire on Mount Seskin Road.

A Garda spokesperson said a number of crime scenes are preserved for forensic and technical examination, and an incident room has been established at Tallaght Garda Station.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the incident room at Tallaght Garda Station 01-6666000, the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station.
Music, Movies & Entertainment, Local News, Arts & Culture

By Jacob Alvear Published: April 17 2023

Register for camp Helen Keller Summer Camp now

Brookville, NY (April 17, 2023)  Registration is open for the Helen Keller Services (HKS) summer camp, Camp Helen Keller, a 5-week day camp experience for children age 7 to 14 who are blind or have low vision, being held this summer, from July 10 to August 11, 2023 at the Long Island University CW Post campus, located at 720 Northern Blvd, Greenvale, NY 11548.

Camp Helen Keller is a summer program created more than 60 years ago for children ages five to 15 who are blind or visually impaired. Its main goal is to improve participants' self-esteem, self-confidence, and socialization skills for campers from Nassau, Suffolk, and Queens, who receive free door-to-door transportation.

Campers participate in traditional activities, such as swimming, arts and crafts, music and dance classes, and field trips and technology classes that have been adapted for visually impaired people. The camp is closed out annually with an inspiring variety show filled with singing, dancing and musical performaces by the campers.

Camp counselors are committed to bringing their unique talents to the children. They are specially trained to adapt recreational and social activities to ensure each childs experience is accessible. Camp memories are created along with lifetime friendships.

For more information or to register visit https://www.helenkeller. org/camp-helen-keller-long- island/

Photo attached, credit Helen Keller Services.

More PHOTO & VIDEO, credit Helen Keller Services: https://drive. google.com/drive/folders/ 1Hl1WQDsB8YqH3HW9cFVAb0tdyyRM0 nEE?usp=share_link

About Helen Keller Services:

Helen Keller Services (HKS) Mission is to enable individuals who are blind, DeafBlind, have low vision or combined vision and hearing loss to live, work and thrive in their community of choice. HKS offers services and programs through two divisions: Helen Keller National Center for DeafBlind Youths and Adults and Helen Keller Services for the Blind. For more information, please visit www.helenkeller.org.
Local News, Crime

By Long Island Published: April 18 2023

A 20-year-old woman was fatally shot by a homeowner in upstate New York after she and her friends mistakenly pulled into the wrong driveway.

According to authorities, a 20-year-old woman named Kaylin Gillis from Saratoga County was fatally shot by a homeowner in upstate New York on Saturday night. Gillis was riding in a car with three friends when they mistakenly turned into the wrong driveway while searching for a friend's house in the town of Hebron. As the driver of the car was leaving, Kevin Monahan, the homeowner, allegedly fired two shots from his patio at the vehicle, hitting Gillis with one of the bullets.

The Washington County Sheriff's Office stated that Monahan, 65, was arrested and charged with second-degree murder. During a press conference on Monday, Sheriff Jeffrey Murphy referred to the incident as "a very sad case" of young adults who were lost and accidentally ended up at Monahan's property. Murphy added that the group of friends and the homeowner did not interact, and the friends never left the car.

After the gunshots rang out around 10 p.m., Gillis and her friends drove away to a neighboring town where they could call for help since the area lacked reliable cellphone service. Unfortunately, Gillis was pronounced dead when first responders reached the car.

Gillis' cousin expressed her grief, describing the victim as a young woman with a loving boyfriend and a strong, supportive family. The area where the shooting occurred is rural, with many dirt roads, making it easy to get lost. According to Sheriff Murphy, there was no threat from the group of friends to the homeowner, and investigators do not believe that mental illness or alcohol were factors in the shooting.
Tech & Science, Local Experts

By Long Island Published: April 18 2023

Stony Brook professor part of international paleontology collaboration re-assessing an ancient ape fossil

Artistic rendering of the open woodland habitat reconstruction at Moroto II with Morotopithecus bishop, vertically climbing with an infant on its back and a juvenile below. An active volcano (Mount Moroto) is in the background; a fossil relative of an elephant is foraging in the center, back.

Because living apes easily reach eatable fruit in trees with their upright bodies, anthropologists have long thought that this is a primary reason why they evolved over millions of years to have an upright torso. But now new research by an international team of paleontologists is suggesting apes ate leaves in forests some 21 million years ago, and this drove their evolution to becoming upright creatures.

James Rossie, PhD, Associate Professor in the Department of Anthropology in the College of Arts and Sciences at Stony Brook University, a member of the international collaboration, and his co-authors describe the finding in a newly published paper in Science, along with a complimentary Science paper highlighting the grassy woodland habitats of the time, which sheds light on the lives of ancient apes, their habits, and thus evolution.

The two papers grew out of a U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF)-funded collaboration of international paleontologists, known as the Research on Eastern African Catarrhine and Hominoid Evolution Project, or REACHE.

New research articulated in these papers provides evidence from the REACHE project that pushes the timeframe back on when apes became upright, and what they ate, forcing scientists to rethink ape evolution.

Scientists involved focused on different aspects of early ape paleoenvironments. The study, led by University of Michigan Professor Laura MacLatchy, revolves around a 21-milliion-year-old ape fossil called Morotopithecus, from Moroto, an upright ape.

The team assessed the biomechanics of Morotopithecus, its eating habits, and evidence about its habitat. They detailed these in the paper titled The evolution of hominoid locomotor versatility: Evidence from Moroto, a 21 Ma site in Uganda.

Rossie assisted in the work and re-analysis of the dental and jaw-bone fossils from Moroto, a key aspect to the finding.

The femur and lower back anatomy of this ape reveals that it climbed trees the way modern apes do, and this is the earliest evidence for this adaptation by at least seven million years, says Rossie. More surprisingly, Morotopithecus shows dental traits indicative of folivory or leaf-eating instead of frigivory.

MacLatchy and the team examined fossils found in a single stratigraphic layer, including fossils of this oldest ape over that time at Moroto. Within this layer included fossils of other mammals, ancient soil evidence and tiny silica particles from plants. They used this evidence to recreate the environment of Moroto.

From this, they determined Morotos living environment to be water stressed, meaning the creatures lived in a landscape that included periods of rain and aridity, which is evidence of an open woodland with broken canopy forests composed of trees and shrubs.

Rossie explained that an assessment of Morotopithecus molars exhibit an elongation with well-developed crests, ideal for shearing leaves. Molars designed to crush fruits are more rounded. Carbon isotope signatures of the enamel of these apes indicated they fed on water-stressed plants, meaning that they were subjected to seasonal periods of dryness.

The work at Moroto is part of a broader endeavor, in which the researchers used a set of environmental proxies to reconstruct the vegetation structure from nine fossil ape sites across Africa. Rossie co-directs one of the major field projects that pooled the teams efforts to document environments across the continent.

In the companion paper, titled Oldest evidence of abundant C4 grasses and habitat heterogeneity in eastern Africa, the researchers reconstructed the paleoenvironment at each location and used carbon isotope analyses of ancient soil organic matter, plant wax biomarkers and phytoliths found at each site.

The authors summarize that the results demonstrate that between 21 and 16 Ma, C4 grasses were locally abundant, contributing to heterogeneous habitats ranging from forests to wooded grasslands. These data push back the oldest evidence of C4 grass-dominated habits in Africaand globallyby more than 10 million years, calling for revised paleoecological interpretations of mammalian evolution.

Previously, researchers believed equatorial Africa during the Early Miocene was thickly covered in forest, and that woodlands and grasslands emerged 7 to 10 million years ago, but this study suggests it was more like 21 million years ago.

Robin Bernstein, Program Director for Biological Anthropology at the NSF, commented on the two papers and the implications of the research:

The findings have transformed what we thought we knew about early apes, and the origin for where, when and why they navigate through the trees and on the ground in multiple different ways, said Bernstein. For the first time, by combining diverse lines of evidence, this collaborative research team tied specific aspects of early ape anatomy to nuanced environmental changes in their habitat in Eastern Africa, now revealed as more open and less forested than previously thought. The effort outlines a new framework for future studies regarding ape evolutionary origins.
Spyfail: Foreign Spies, Moles, Saboteurs, and the Collapse of America's Counterintelligence

https://www.amazon.com/Spyfail-Saboteurs-Collapse-Americas-Counterintelligence/dp/1538741156

By James Bamford  January 17, 2023

James Bamford, the bestselling author of The Puzzle Palace and Body of Secrets, unveils a hidden cabal of foreign powers that have spied against America to reveal the incredible spygames, secrets, and cyberweapons theyve hatched, unlocked, and stolen--and how U.S. intelligence has utterly failed to stop them.



SPYFAIL is about the highly dangerous and growing capability of foreign countries to conduct large-scale espionage within the United States and how the FBI and other agencies have failed to prevent it. These covert operations involve a variety of foreign countriesNorth Korea, Russia, Israel, China, and othersand include cyberattacks, espionage, psychological warfare, the infiltration of presidential campaigns, the smuggling of nuclear weapons components, and other incredibly nefarious actions.



With his trademark deep investigative style, James Bamford digs as deep as one can go into these clandestine invasions and attacks, uncovering whos involved, how these spygames were carried out, and why none of this was stopped. Full of revelations, SPYFAIL includes access to previously secret and withheld documents, such as never-before-seen parts of the Mueller Report, and interviews with confidential sources.



Throughout this stunning, eye-opening account, SPYFAIL demonstrates again and again how large a role politics, special interests, and corruption play in allowing these shocking foreign intrusions to continueleaving America and its secrets vulnerable and undefended.

About James Bamford (September 15, 1946- )
Local News

By Chris Boyle Published: April 18 2023

Record Pandemic-Era Ridership Coincides with Opening of Second Manhattan Terminal.

Governor Kathy Hochul has announced that the Long Island Rail Road has surpassed one million paying customers traveling in or out of Grand Central Madison Terminal, which opened with full service on February 27. The milestone was surpassed on Friday, April 7. In addition, the LIRR announced several pandemic-era ridership records achieved since Grand Central Madison opened for full service. On both Saturday, April 8, and Sunday, April 9, the railroad carried record pandemic-era weekend ridership as New Yorkers used mass transit to get around during the holiday weekend - 108,740 customers traveling on Saturday and 98,030 traveling on Sunday. On Tuesday, March 21, 213,026 customers took the LIRR, surpassing the previous pandemic-era record from November 2022.

"We have made historic investments in transit on Long Island, making it easier to connect commuters across the region," Governor Hochul said. "With the millionth rider traveling through Grand Central Madison mere months after the terminal's opening, it shows just how essential this service has already become for New Yorkers over only a short period of time."

The LIRR also announced several milestones achieved since the opening of Grand Central Madison. This March, the LIRR has sold 358,609 City Tickets - which provides off-peak travel within New York City for $5 - a 118.5 percent increase over the previous March. The Combo Ticket, an opportunity for customers to purchase discounted tickets when traveling on both LIRR and Metro-North Railroad in the same journey made possible through the opening of Grand Central Madison, has been utilized by over 4,000 customers since its launch. Through April 18, 2023, 15,503 LIRR trains have arrived at or departed from Grand Central Madison. The MTA's popular TrainTime app has seen over 370,000 tickets purchased for trips to or from Grand Central Madison.

MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber said, "One million customers represent a major milestone in the rollout of Grand Central Madison. Tens of thousands of New Yorkers have had their lives improved since GCM opened - some by more convenient connections to world-renowned hospitals, others by first-time reverse commuting connecting city residents to Long Island jobs, and still others just by saving as much as 40 minutes on their daily commute. Little by little, Grand Central Madison is fundamentally transforming the fabric of New York."

LIRR Interim President and Metro-North Railroad President Catherine Rinaldi said, "The opening of full service at Grand Central Madison is enabling never-before-seen connection while also enabling generational increases in service. As we promised, we listened to our customers and enhanced service to better meet their needs. With the changes we've introduced, we have dramatically reduced delays and crowding, and customers have responded by taking the train in pandemic-era record numbers."

MTA Acting Chief customer Officer Shanifah Rieara said, "The benefits of Grand Central Madison are clear: tens of thousands of customers with shorter commutes and expansion in service, especially for off-peak and reverse-peak customers. We said on day one that it would take time to fine tune this new terminal, and with the input of LIRR customers, we are doing just that, by enhancing schedules and improving wayfinding within the new station. As we look forward to millions of more rides to come at Grand Central Madison, I encourage customers to continue sharing their feedback, it helps us make their experience better."

In recent weeks, schedule adjustments and lengthened trains have been introduced, increasing comfort and reliability, and boosting on-time performance above 93.5 percent. Since February 27, the LIRR has exceeded 200,000 riders on 16 days, a threshold the railroad had only crossed twice during the first 57 days of 2023. During the seven days between April 9 and April 15, the LIRR carried an average of 168,726 daily customers, the best seven-day average since March 2020. The highest daily ridership at Grand Central Madison was achieved on Tuesday, April 11, with approximately 32,060 customers traveling in and out of the new Manhattan terminal.

To mark the milestone of one million rides being surpassed, the LIRR welcomed two Grand Central Madison customers to join the celebration: Ray Ragunauth and Karen Hamilton. Ragunauth is a physical therapist and Long Island resident, who was able to pursue new career opportunities on the East Side of Manhattan thanks to the shortened commute brought about by Grand Central Madison. Hamilton is a resident of Laurelton, Queens, who has benefited both from the introduction of more frequent service to stations within Queens and the opening of Grand Central Madison, where she frequently travels with her mother to medical appointments at NYU Langone Health.

Chair of the LIRR Commuter Council and Permanent Citizens Advisory Committee to the MTA and MTA Board Member Gerard Bringmann said, "1,000,000 Grand Central Madison trips is a major milestone for riders and the LIRR. In the few months since new LIRR service began, Grand Central Madison has opened new travel options and improvements for tens of thousands of daily LIRR riders who now have direct access and shorter commutes to the East Side. We're glad to see that the MTA has continued to respond to rider feedback through ongoing adjustments, most recently this Monday, April 17th, and look forward to seeing even more riders take advantage of new service in the coming months. Grand Central Madison is truly a symbol of a more unified and integrated transit system with both railroads and the Subway under one roof!"

Assemblymember Charles Lavine said, "This milestone is a reminder of how the Grand Central Madison station is making life more convenient for Long Islanders seeking access to the east side of Manhattan. The railroad is an essential service and I will continue to work with my partners at the MTA who are equally committed to making improvements to service wherever they are needed."

Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone said, "It's another historic milestone for the MTA as we celebrate more than one million customers traveling to and from Long Island at Grand Central Terminal. Giving Long Islanders the ability to arrive at Grand Central Station is truly a game changer for our region. Here's to millions of more customers and success for New York State driven by the architectural and transportation gem that is Grand Central Station."

Southeast Queens Resident Karen Hamilton said, "A few months ago, my mother had a doctor's appointment at 7:30 in the morning and I was able to confidently say 'take that appointment' because I knew we could take a one-seat ride to Grand Central and the doctors' offices are right over on 41st Street between Second and Third, and I knew that you could just walk over there leisurely. She's able to get to all of her doctor's appointments at NYU Langone with a one-seat ride and just a short walk. So, this has really changed her commuting and her ability to access the care that she needs at any given time."

LIRR Customer Ray Ragunauth said, "During 2020 me and my wife decided to leave the city and go to Long Island and get a house out there, but my heart always belonged to the city. And the last six months I've had an opportunity arise to work back on the Upper East Side at a hospital up there. And, once my wife who already commutes to the Upper East Side started using the Grand Central Line, her commutes cut down to like 20-30 minutes and it became a no brainer for me to come back to the city and to be in a city that I love."
A third of U.S. adults say their family couldn't afford care in past year

One in four say care was deferred for a serious medical condition

Lower-income adults and Democrats most likely to report delayed care

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- A record 25% of Americans say they or a family member put off treatment for a serious medical condition in the past year because of the cost, up from 19% a year ago and the highest in Gallup's trend. Another 8% said they or a family member put off treatment for a less serious condition, bringing the total percentage of households delaying care due to costs to 33%, tying the high from 2014.

Gallup first asked this question in 1991, at which time 22% reported that they or a family member delayed care for any kind of condition, including 11% for a serious condition. The figures were similar in the next update in 2001, and Gallup has since asked this question annually as part of its Health and Healthcare poll. This year's survey was conducted Nov. 1-14.

Americans' reports of family members delaying any sort of medical treatment for cost reasons were lower in the early to mid-2000s when closer to a quarter reported the problem. Since 2006, the rate has averaged 30%.

The pattern is similar for the subset of Americans postponing medical treatment for a serious condition. The rate rose from 12% in 2001 to an average of 19% since 2006. However, the current 25% is the highest yet, exceeding the prior high-point of 22% recorded in 2014.

Income Gap Widens for Cost-Related Delays for Serious Conditions

Reports of delaying treatment for a serious condition jumped 13 percentage points in the past year to 36% among adults in households earning less than $40,000 per year while it was essentially flat (up a non statistically significant three points) among those in middle-income and higher-income households.

As a result of the spike in lower-income households this year, the gap between the top and bottom income groups for failure to seek treatment for a serious medical condition widened to 23 percentage points in 2019. The income gap had averaged 17 points in the early years of Barack Obama's presidency, but narrowed to an average 11 points in the first few years after implementation of the ACA, from 2015 to 2018.

Delayed Care Up Most Among Those With Pre-Existing Conditions

Reports of delaying care for a serious condition due to costs are also up 13 points compared with last year among Americans who report they or another household member has a "pre-existing condition."

At the same time, there has been virtually no change in the percentage of adults without pre-existing conditions in the household who delayed care for a serious health issue in the past year, currently 12% versus 11% in 2018.

Changes in health insurance coverage don't appear to be the cause of the increase in delayed care as the percentage uninsured is 11% in the poll, within the 9% to 11% range seen each year since 2015. Also, the percentage delaying care has increased a similar proportion among those covered by private health insurance or Medicare/Medicaid as well as among the uninsured.

Recent Reports of Delayed Care May Have a Partisan Component

A cautionary note in the new findings is that most of the recent increase in reports that family members are delaying treatment for serious conditions has occurred among self-identified Democrats. This is up 12 points since 2018 among Democrats, compared with three- and five-point increases among Republicans and independents, respectively.

This ties in with Democrats' higher likelihood than Republicans of reporting that they or a household family member has a pre-existing medical condition.

Whether these gaps are indicative of real differences in the severity of medical and financial problems faced by Democrats compared with Republicans or Democrats' greater propensity to perceive problems in these areas isn't entirely clear. But it's notable that the partisan gap on putting off care for serious medical treatment is currently the widest it's been in two decades.

Implications

Since 2001, Gallup has tracked a near 50% increase in the percentage of Americans saying that they or a family member chose not to get medical care because of the costs they would have to pay. Such delays in medical treatment, whether for injuries, illnesses or chronic conditions, can have significant implications for the economy and healthcare system, but also the political climate.

One indicator of the stress that delayed care can put on the healthcare system is the use of emergency departments. According to the American Hospital Association, patient visits to emergency departments in community hospitals increased 19% between 2001 and 2016 and has likely climbed to over 20% by today. While that may reflect many factors, including the aging of the population and the number of Americans living in close proximity to hospitals, it may also be indicative of a greater need for emergency care due to lack of routine care.

While most of the increase Gallup sees in delayed treatment occurred over a decade ago, the sharp increase in the past year, particularly among Democrats, suggests that healthcare costs could be a more potent political issue than previously seen. Presidential candidates who acknowledge the problem and propose solutions to address it may find a receptive ear among voters.

From an economic perspective, delayed care can have a range of negative effects, including reduced workplace productivity in the short-term, and increased healthcare costs and in the long-term -- costs that ultimately burden the federal budget which has ripple effects on the economy.

View complete question responses and trends (PDF download).

Learn more about how the Gallup Poll Social Series works.
According to an update on the Givealittle page, the group are just waiting for Nana to confirm that her insurance wont be covering the damage before the money goes her way, although it is "not looking positive" at this stage.
Andi Owen, CEO of furniture company MillerKnoll, took home about $5 million in compensation in 2022, about $1.3M of which came from a performance-based bonus. In a recent company-wide Zoom call, Owen answered some questions from her employees. One worker in particular raised the concern of, "How can we stay motivated if we're not going to get a bonusWhat can we do? What can we do?"

Owen's response was  certainly an interesting strategy in employee motivation:

Don't ask about: What are we going to do if we don't get a bonus? Get the damn $26 million [company goal]. Spend your time and your effort thinking about the $26 million we need and not thinking about what you're going to do if you don't get a bonus. Alright? Can I get some commitment for that?I would appreciate that. [] I had an old boss who said to me one time, 'You can visit pity city, but you can't live there.' So people, leave pity city. Let's get it done.

According to Vice, Owen's company has struggled a bit in the wake of office investment changes brought on by the COVID-19 Pandemic:

This has led to "a period of disruption," as MillerKnoll itself recently put it, which led Herman Miller to acquire Knoll, one of its top competitors, in 2021 for $1.8 billion and form newly created MillerKnoll to better weather the changes brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Knoll's then-CEO stepped down as a result of the transaction, placing Owen, then CEO of Herman Miller, in charge of the newly formed furniture giant. Since then, Owen has tried to cut costs in a variety of ways as the share price plungedthe company announced earlier this month that it would close a manufacturing plant in Wisconsin and lay off 162 employeesand otherwise shifted its focus to "more hybrid, collaborative work environments" and online sales.

The company has since issued a statement on the video, saying, "Andi fiercely believes in this team and all we can accomplish together, and will not be dissuaded by a 90-second clip taken out of context and posted on social media."

Okay.
Manchester, VT (05254)

Today

Sunshine this morning. Becoming mostly cloudy with showers developing this afternoon. High 57F. Winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Rain early...then remaining cloudy with showers overnight. Low 39F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%. Rainfall around a quarter of an inch.
PARIS, FranceA French court acquitted Air France and plane manufacturer Airbus Monday over the 2009 crash of a flight from Rio de Janeiro to Paris, a ruling victims families said left them disgusted.

The court in Paris found the companies had committed various errors leading up to the worst aviation disaster in Air Frances historywhich left all 228 people on board flight AF447 dead but that their mistakes could not be proven to be the cause.

While the ruling was expected after prosecutors recommended against seeking a conviction, it was still a huge blow for victims relatives, who have waged a 14-year campaign for justice.

As hearings in the eight-week trial wrapped up in December, prosecutors said it was impossible to convict the two aviation giants, which were charged with involuntary manslaughter but denied the charges.

If convicted, the two companies would have risked a fine of 225,000 euros ($250,000) as well as significant reputational damage.

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As the verdict was read out, relatives of the victims present in court stood up, appearing stunned, then sat down again.

Ophelie Toulliou, who lost her brother in the accident, said she was dazed by the injustice of the verdict.

It makes no sense to me, she said.

Daniele Lamy, president of the association which represents the victims, said she and others were disgusted.

We expected an impartial judgement, this was not the case, she said. All that remains of these 14 years of waiting is despair, dismay and anger.

In Brazil, victims families also voiced outrage.

The French justice system isnt serious, it isnt impartial, Nelson Marinho, president of the Brazilian victims association, told newspaper O Globo.

This tragedy devastated so many families. I cant describe what Im feeling today, said Marinho, who lost his son in the crash.

Imprudence

The hearings centered on the role of defective Pitot tubes, which are used to measure flight speed.

The court heard how a malfunction with the tubes, which became blocked with ice crystals during a mid-Atlantic storm, caused alarms to sound in the cockpit of the Airbus A330 and the autopilot system to switch of.

Technical experts highlighted how, after the instrument failure, the pilots put the plane into a climb that caused the aircraft to stall, then crash into the ocean.

Air France and Airbus blamed pilot error as the main cause.

But lawyers for the families argued both companies were aware of the Pitot tube problem before the crash, and that the pilots were not trained to deal with such a high-altitude emergency.

The court said Airbus committed four acts of imprudence or negligence, including not replacing certain models of the Pitot tubes that seemed to freeze more often on its A330-A340 fleet, and withholding information from flight operators.

It said Air France had committed two acts of imprudence in the way it disseminated an information note on the faulty tubes to its pilots.

But there was not a strong enough causal link between these failings and the accident to show an offense had been committed, it found.

Legally justified

Prosecutors initially dropped charges against the companies in 2019, a decision that also infuriated victims families.

A Paris appeals court overturned this decision in 2021 and ordered the trial to go ahead.

Throughout the trial, representatives of Airbus and Air France maintained the companies were not guilty of criminal wrongdoing.

Their lawyers demanded acquittal, describing it as a difficult decision from a human point of view, but technically and legally justified.

Air France takes note of the judgement, the company said in a statement after the verdict.

The company will always remember the victims of this terrible accident and expresses its deepest sympathy to all of their loved ones.

Airbus said the decision was consistent with the initial dismissal in 2019.

The group expressed its compassion to victims relatives.

Flight AF447 was carrying people of 33 different nationalities, including 72 French and 58 Brazilians.

It took nearly two years to recover the black box flight recorders, which were found almost 4,000 meters (13,000 feet) below sea level.

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Group of 7 Nations (G7) foreign ministers on Tuesday urged warring forces in Sudan to end hostilities immediately and return to negotiations, after days of fighting that has killed almost 200 people and wounded 1,800.

A weeks-long power struggle in the north African country exploded into deadly violence Saturday between the forces of two generals who seized power in a 2021 coup: army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his deputy, Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who commands the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

We urge the parties to end hostilities immediately without pre-conditions, the G7 foreign ministers meeting in Japan said in a statement.

They warned the fighting threatens the security and safety of Sudanese civilians and undermines efforts to restore Sudans democratic transition.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said he had spoken with the two generals and underscored the urgent need for a ceasefire.

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Too many civilian lives have already been lost, Blinken tweeted, adding he had stressed the importance of ensuring the safety of diplomatic personnel and aid workers.

Following the call, Daglo said in a tweet that the pair had discussed pressing issues in Sudan, adding he was grateful for the USs commitment to restoring stability in Sudan.

Blinken also confirmed a US diplomatic convoy had been fired upon on Monday, though those inside were unharmed, in what he called a reckless act.

In a separate incident, the European Unions ambassador to Sudan was attacked in his home in Khartoum on Monday, the blocs top diplomat Josep Borrell said. A spokesperson told AFP the veteran diplomat was OK following the assault.

Terrified residents

Analysts say the fighting in the capital is unprecedented and could be prolonged, despite regional and global calls for a ceasefire as diplomats mobilise.

Battles have taken place throughout the vast country and there are fears of regional spillover of the conflict that has seen air strikes, artillery and heavy gunfire.

Terrified residents of Khartoum are spending the last and holiest days of Ramadan watching from their windows as tanks roll through the streets, buildings shake and smoke from fires triggered by the fighting hangs in the air.

Those compelled to venture out face queues for bread and petrol at outlets that are not shuttered.

Residents are also dealing with power outages.

Volker Perthes, the head of the UN mission to Sudan, told the Security Council in a closed-door session Monday that at least 185 people had been killed and another 1,800 wounded.

Its a very fluid situation so its very difficult to say where the balance is shifting to, Perthes told reporters after the meeting.

Medics in Sudan had earlier given a death toll of nearly 100 civilians and dozens of fighters from both sides, but the number of casualties was thought to be far higher, with many wounded unable to reach hospitals.

The official doctors union warned fighting had heavily damaged multiple hospitals in Khartoum and other cities, with some completely out of service.

The World Health Organization warned that several Khartoum hospitals have run out of blood, transfusion equipment, intravenous fluids and other vital supplies.

In the western region of Darfur, international medical aid organisation Doctors Without Borders (MSF)reported receiving 136 wounded patients at the only hospital in El Fasher still operating in North Darfur state.

The majority of the wounded are civilians who were caught in the crossfire  among them are many children, MSFs Cyrus Paye said.

Due to limited surgical capacity, 11 people died from their injuries in the first 48 hours of the conflict.

Call for talks

Three UN World Food Programme staff were also among those killed on Saturday in Darfur, where humanitarian missions have had medical and other supplies looted, according to Save the Children and MSF.

A number of organisations have temporarily suspended operations in the country, where one-third of the population needs aid.

This renewed fighting only aggravates what was already a fragile situation, forcing UN agencies and our humanitarian partners to temporarily shutter many of our more than 250 programmes across Sudan, said UN emergency relief coordinator Martin Griffiths.

Influential northern neighbour Egypt said it had discussed with Saudi Arabia, South Sudan and Djibouti  all close allies of Sudan  the need to make every effort to preserve stability and safety.

President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi called on the two sides to return to the negotiating table and said he was working on the return of Egyptian military trainers captured Saturday at an air base by RSF forces.

There are no more civilian flights arriving in Khartoum, where fighting has damaged aircraft.

Democracy derailed

On Twitter, Daglo earlier called on the international community to intervene against Burhan, branding him a radical Islamist who is bombing civilians from the air.

We will continue to pursue Al-Burhan and bring him to justice, said Daglo, whose RSF and its predecessor the Janjaweed in Darfur have previously been accused of atrocities and war crimes.

Army statements call the RSF a rebel militia intent on engaging near populated areas.

The fighting broke out after bitter disagreements between Burhan and Daglo over the planned integration of the RSF into the regular army  a key condition for a final deal aimed at ending a crisis since the 2021 coup, which derailed a transition to democracy.

Both claim to be in control of key sites, including the airport and the presidential palace  none of which could be independently verified.

On Monday, the army resumed broadcasting on state TV.

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President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., lawmakers and foreign diplomats on Tuesday paid tribute to the late former Foreign Affairs secretary and ambassador Albert Del Rosario, who played a key role in winning a favorable ruling for the Philippines against China from an international tribunal.

Del Rosario, 83, died on his way to San Francisco in the United States onboard an aircraft. The Del Rosario family has yet to release information on the cause of death.

I join the entire nation in mourning the passing of former Foreign Affairs secretary Albert del Rosario, an honorable diplomat and an esteemed public servant, Mr. Marcos said in a statement released by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO)

I extend my deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones of Secretary del Rosario, who was known for his patriotism and integrity, he said.

The President thanked Del Rosario for his long years of dedication and commitment to serve the country as foreign envoy then Department of Foreign Affairs chief under the administration of the late President Benigno Aquino III.

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We thank his deep commitment to our national interest and his unwavering devotion to our shared values, the President said.

Del Rosario was behind two prominent legal cases against Beijing, including a 2013 case at the Permanent Court of Arbitration that eventually struck down Chinas claims to most of the resource-rich South China Sea.

Del Rosario continued his criticism of China after leaving office by holding public forums organized by his think tank and writing opinion columns in local newspapers.

In March 2019, del Rosario filed a complaint against Chinese officials at the International Criminal Court, alleging crimes against humanity over the supposed environmental fallout of Beijings activities in the South China Sea.

The complaint was eventually dismissed because China is not a state party to the Rome Statute that established the court. Months after filing the ICC case, he was denied entry to Hong Kong in what critics called retaliation for his criticism of Beijing.

Speaker Martin G. Romualdez paid tribute to Del Rosario.

Our country has just lost a consummate diplomat, a humble and conscientious public servant and civilian, and a staunch and passionate defender of national sovereignty, Romualdez said.

He said Filipinos would remember Del Rosario for his strong and consistent defense of territorial waters and features and resources in them that belong to the Philippines in the West Philippine Sea.

House Majority Leader Manuel Jose Dalipe also sent his condolences to the Del Rosario family.

I have known Secretary Del Rosario as a true champion of our democracy and sovereignty having been one of one of the prime movers of our bid to secure the position of the UNCLOS in relation to our claims in the West Philippine Sea. While we have differed on many national issues, I have always admired Secretary Del Rosario for being a genuine statesman and a true Filipino patriot, Dalipe said.

Deputy Speaker and Batangas Rep. Ralph Recto said there was no better advocate of the countrys interestsand no braver defender of overseas Filipino workers and champion of Philippine sovereignty than the late diplomat, who he remembered as being eloquent in speech and refined in manners.

Whether it was to cooperate with governments or contest their actions, he articulated our position in a convincing but dignified way, earning for him the admiration of peers, and for the country the respect of nations, Recto said.

Senate Majority Leader Joel Villanueva said he had the privilege to know and work with Del Rosario when they were both part of the Aquino Cabinet.

He described Del Rosario as a true patriot who was instrumental in winning the Philippines case over territorial disputes with China in the West Philippine Sea at the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, Netherlands.

He may have passed on, but his legacy and achievements are permanently inked in the history of our nation, Villanueva said. He will be deeply missed.

Senator Francis Tolentino said Del Rosario will always be remembered for his consistent stand on protecting the national territory, especially the West Philippine Sea.

Senator Francis Escudero said he worked with Del Rosario during the Aquino administration, and knew him to be a man of firm integrity and patriotism.

Senator Grace Poe said she would hold Del Rosario in high esteem forever.

Senator Risa Hontiveros lamented the loss of an esteemed diplomat who represented the country with utmost grace, honor, and dignity.

She emphasized that it was through Del Rosarios tutelage that the Philippines won the historic 2016 Arbitral Award, reaffirming its legitimate rights in the West Philippine Sea.

This ruling has earned its place in the annals of international law, showing the world that we, a small country, can stand up to a global giant like China, in the name of our hard-won sovereignty, she said.

Secretary Del Rosarios leadership inspired in us the courage and the creativity to fight for our national interest using lawful and diplomatic means, she added.

Defending and protecting our rights in the West Philippine Sea is an inter-generational battle, one we can win because of the work Del Rosario started, a work we will continue for the future of our country and our children.

I have rarely met such a dignified and gentlemanly person who was also perfectly capable of fighting indefatigably for what he believed in, Hontiveros said. He preached and practiced what he called hard diplomacy. We must carry on his fight.

The ambassadors of the European Union, Czech Republic, Japan, Australia, and the embassy of Canada extended their sympathies to the Filipino people following the news of Del Rosarios death.

They all agreed that the countrys former top diplomat significantly contributed to the advancement of Philippine relations with other nations.

EU Ambassador to the Philippines Luc Veron described Del Rosario as soft-spoken, but an indefatigable diplomat and patriot whose role in strengthening EU-Philippines relations was critical.

Czech Ambassador to the Philippines Jana Treybalova Sediva and her embassy in Manila expressed similar thoughts.

A brilliant diplomat and public servant, Secretary. Del Rosarios dedication to strengthening and deepening ties between the Czech Republic and the Philippines is demonstrated by the various key roles he played in foreign policy, especially between the Philippines and Europe.

Japanese Ambassador to the Philippine Koshikawa Kazuhiko noted Del Rosarios contributions to the relationship between Tokyo and Manila, as symbolized by the conferment of a Japanese Decoration last year.

He added that Del Rosarios leadership in upholding the rule of law in the sea, will never be forgotten.

Australian Ambassador to the Philippines HK Yu said Del Rosario will always be remembered, particularly for his support for the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the rules-based international order.

The Canadian Embassy in Manila said that under his leadership, Canada and the Philippines collaborated to advance their thematic priorities, which were international law and the welfare of migrant workers.

They also worked on a wide range of areas, including the promotion of democratic development, international security, and the promotion and the protection of human rights during Del Rosarios stint as Foreign Affairs secretary.

The Akbayan Party also mourned the loss of Del Rosario.

We mourn the loss of a patriot, a friend and defender of democracy. But Secretary del Rosario was so much more than these things. He was, above all, a man who stood for what was right, exemplifying what is best in every Filipino, it said.

History will remember him as one of the cornerstones of our victory against China in the Permanent Court of Arbitration. The Hague ruling in our countrys favor is easily the most significant diplomatic victory for the Philippines in recent memory. Secretary Del Rosario was a staunch and consistent ally against China when it came to the defense of our territory, it added.

We had the honor of standing alongside him, in both principle and in practice, on the issues of our national sovereignty and the welfare of overseas Filipino workers, the party said.

We will never forget you. And we will uphold your memory by continuing the struggle for a fairer, kinder, and more just nation that sheds the light of hope upon the dreams of all.

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Chinas Foreign Minister Qin Gang flies to the Philippines on Friday for a three-day official visit and meeting with his Filipino counterpart as Beijing and Manila keep their relations warm amid their continued differences, especially over the South China Sea.

Qin, Chinas concurrent State Councilor, will have a meeting with Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo to exchange views on the outcomes of the recent Philippines-China Foreign Ministry Consultations and Bilateral Consultations Mechanism on the South China Sea held in Manila in March.

The official visit continues the series of high-level interactions between the Philippines and China in 2023, following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.s state visit to China in early January, the DFA said in a statement.

It will be Qin and Manalos first in-person meeting, where they are expected to discuss ways forward in the implementation of the agreements reached during Mr. Marcos and Chinese President Xi Jinpings bilateral talks.

Both sides will discuss increasing and strengthening cooperation in agriculture, trade, energy, infrastructure, and people-to-people relations, among others, DFA added.

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Manalo and Qin are also expected to discuss regional security issues of mutual concern, the DFA said, despite Beijings continued aggressive activities in the West Philippine Sea and the South China Sea, which other countries saw as a threat against peace and stability in the region.

The visit coincidentally followed Manalos recent high-level engagements with the officials of the US, Chinas main rival, in Washington, D.C., wherein Manila and Washington bolstered their military alliance in response to Chinas aggression in the waters, among other reasons.

Qins visit will be his first official engagement with the Philippines since his appointment as both Foreign Minister and State Councilor in December 2022 and early March 2023, respectively, the DFA said.

China has strongly opposed a decision by the Marcos administration to grant US military forces access to additional sites under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement in northern Luzon, which Chinese officials said will be used by the US to possibly intervene in the Taiwan issue.

Chinese Foreign Ministry officials warned that granting greater access to US troops in the Philippines endangers regional peace and security, as they cited concerns by unidentified many insightful people in the Philippines that such move could draw the country into the whirlpool of a potential conflict in the Taiwan Strait.

The announcement of Qins visit coincided with a prayer rally by some 7,000 Cagayanos in Tuguegarao City, the provincial capital, organized by the Prayer for peace Cagayan Movement which opposes the establishment of the facilities.

China, which considers Taiwan as part of its territory it envisions to reclaim by force if necessary, opposes any high-level contacts with the island and called on countries to adhere to the One-China Policy.

Three of the four additional EDCA locations facing Taiwan are Naval Base Camilo Osias in Sta. Ana in Cagayan, Lal-lo Airport also in Cagayan, and Camp Melchor Dela Cruz in Gamu, Isabela.

The fourth site is in Balabac Island in Palawan, the island province closest to the disputed Spratlys in the West Philippine Sea, where China and the Philippines have long had overlapping claims.

Tuao Mayor William Mamba expressed his concern over the EDCA sites construction, emphasizing the harm it would do to the Cagayano populace ion the event of a conflict in the Taiwan Strait.

We plead for a miracle that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. may alter his mind about EDCA, Mamba said.

Mayor Isidro Cabaddu of Camalaniugan also expressed his displeasure over the development of the US facility in Lal-lo which is near his town.

Governor Manuel Mamba remarked at the prayer gathering that EDCA is just war amid rising tensions between China and Taiwan, which is just 200 kilometers from the province.

We want Cagayan to be the center of agro-industrial hubs in the international port, not the center of foreign military bases whose clear objective is to enable war between America and China, he said.

Foreign investors from China, South Korea, Japan, and even Taiwan will be wary of investing in Cagayan out of concern that it will turn into a stronghold in Americas battle, Mamba said.

Mayor Leonel Guzman of the town of Piat said: My presence alone would be sufficient to show that I oppose EDCA.

We were very fortunate we had a governor who can stand for what is right for the province, he said.

Thank you for being there, governor, and standing for what you believe is good for every Cagayano, Guzman said.

Mayor Nelson Robinion, who is worried about the EDCA facility being built in Sta. Ana, also supported Mamba.

Robinion lamented that, like the governor, he had never been informed of any EDCA intentions or activities in the area.

Board Member Rodrigo De Asis urged each one to pray and stand in solidarity with the governor as he struggles to block US access to the province.

All other officials who spoke publicly expressed their dismay over the EDCA and resistance to its development, stressing the detrimental consequences it will have on the Cagayano populace.

Dr. Susan Perez-Mari from the University of Cagayan Valley, Mr. Christian Tutu Guzman from the Medical Colleges of Northern Philippines, Mr. PJ Lappay from Saint Paul University, a senior citizens association representative, and Board Member Christian Ursua from the Sangguniang Kabataan also delivered remarks.

Also included are the barangay officials of Amulung East and Tuao; SB Members of Pamplona, Claveria, and Tuao; delegates from Baggao, Iguig, Piat, and Tuguegarao City; Agkaykaysa Members of Penablanca Members from Penablanca.

It includes agriculture sector, women sector, academe civil society group, senior citizens group, youth sector, and ecumenical group.

To promote community harmony and peace, Clarita Lunas, one of the convenors, said they planned a prayer rally after learning that two EDCA sites were scheduled in Cagayan: one at the Naval Base Camilo Osias in Santa Ana and one at the Lal-lo Airport.

In other developments:

 One of the Philippine Air Forces Bell 412 combat utility helicopters served as aerial platform for the troops participating in the gas-oil platform takedown exercises off Matinloc in El Nido, Palawan.

PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo said the exercises objective was to develop mutual defense capability and strengthen the countrys maritime security.

The helicopter was from the 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing and deployed to help in executing the so-called fast rope insertion and extraction system (FRIES) last April 16.

FRIES is a specialized mechanical system that enables rapid tactical insertion and extraction of personnel in areas where helicopter landings are not permissible.

The demonstration involved the protection of a retired Matinloc platform, which served as a stand-in for the Malampaya platform. The Bell 412 helicopter facilitated the vertical insertion of the elite assault troops from the Naval Special Operations Unit (NAVSOU) through FRIES, she added.

Participants in the GOPLAT exercises also included the Philippine Navy and were witnessed by US military counterparts as observers.

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DFA says contingency plans in place at MECO

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday directed the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to look after the welfare of the overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Taiwan following a statement from the Chinese ambassador that referred to their safety as tensions rose over the self-governing island.

Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for Migrant Workers Affairs Eduardo De Vega said contingency measures are in place in case Filipinos need to be evacuated.

STINGER DRILL. Philippine and US Marines demonstrate the use of Stinger MANPADS in an air defense drill at Naval Station Leovigildo Gantioqui in San Antonio, Zambales during Balikatan 2023 on Mondauy. While the Philippine Marines does not operate any MANPADS, it is looking to procure them for its Coastal Defense Regiment. USMC Photo / Cpl. Kyle Chan

(The President) has given a general order to always watch out for the safety and welfare of all OFWs, including in Taiwan, De Vega said in a briefing.

He assured the public that there has been a contingency plan for a long time.

Its a thick book, he said. Its there in the Manila Economic Cultural Office and labor offices.

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At a recent forum, Chinese Ambassador to Manila Huang Xilian said Beijing reserves the option of taking all necessary measures should things escalate in the Taiwan Strait and advised Manila to oppose Taiwan independence if it really cares about the 150,000 OFWs there.

Huangs statement came after the Philippine government allowed US troops access to four additional military bases under its Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA).

The Chinese embassy later said the ambassador was misquoted.

De Vega said the Philippines is a peaceful country.

We do not have the intent to undertake offensive military actions. There is no need for anyone to make statements that make it appear our OFWs are being targeted, he said.

Mr. Marcos has maintained that the new EDCA sites would not be used for offensive attacks after the Chinese government noted that two of these bases were located at the northernmost tip of Luzon, just a few hundred kilometers away from Taiwan.

De Vega said no Filipino is seeking government help for repatriation in Taiwan as of yet.

Senators earlier said the government should have a contingency plan to evacuate 150,000 Filipinos working in Taiwan in case the brewing tensions with China escalate.

Senator Francis Escudero said this should be a given for every country where Filipinos are working.

Embassies and consulates must be prepared for any contingency, he added.

Senator Aquilino Pimentel III said the country must always be prepared where OFWs are concerned.

Where we have a concentration of OFWs, we should always be ready with all sorts of contingency plans, he said.

When the contingency actually happens, the folder or plan should just be pulled from the shelf. Thats how we should be prepared, he said.

Senator Francis Tolentino said he had already recommended that in case of an emergency, civilian commercial passenger ships should be commandeered by the government to facilitate the immediate evacuation of OFWs from Taiwan.

We have to prepare a contingency plan utilizing commercial vessels assisted by the Philippine Navy and Coast Guard, he added.

In the House, Assistant Minority Leader Arlene Brosas criticized the remarks of the Chinese ambassador, saying he had crossed the line by citing the fate of OFWs in Taiwan to pressure Manila.

Chinese Ambassador Huang is sending a veiled threat to our OFWs in Taiwan to pressure the Philippines to abide by the One China principle. He clearly crossed the line, and Malacanang should recommend that he must be immediately recalled, said Brosas, the nominee of the Gabriela party-list group in the House of Representatives.

To tell Manila to unequivocally oppose such [an] assertion of [Taiwan] independence and dangle the fate of our OFWs  that is simply unacceptable, she added.

The lawmaker said that while Filipinos should oppose the designation of new shared locations under the EDCA, this does not mean that they should tolerate Beijings aggressive acts in the West Philippine Sea.

From the building of artificial islands in the contested waters to the harassment of our fishermen and laser-tagging of our Coast Guard, China has done so much to cause unrest and concern in the peace and security in the West Philippine Sea. It has no ascendancy to lecture us on ensuring regional stability and de-escalating the tension in the contested territories, she said.

Brosas said Gabriela will continue to oppose any act of aggression and foreign intervention, whether from Washington or from Beijing.

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Speaker Martin Romualdez on Tuesday vowed to work harder in expanding the Philippines and United States (US) economic security relations.

Romualdez made the pledge following a meeting at the US Capitol in Washington D.C. with US Representative Young Kim of California on Tuesday morning (Philippine time), with a group of Philippine legislators also in attendance.

Kim is chairperson of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Indo-Pacific.

Accompanying Speaker Romualdez in the meeting were House Majority Leader Manuel Jose Dalipe of Zamboangas 2nd District, Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr. of Pampangas 3rd District, Navotas City Rep. Tobias Tiangco, Agusan del Norte 1st District Rep. Jose Aquino II, Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel del Gallego Romualdez, House Secretary General Reginald Velasco, and

PH SOLONS AT US CAPITOL. A Philippine congressional delegation headed by Speaker Martin Romualdez (4th from right) meets with U.S. Representative Young Kim (in red skirt) ) of California, chair of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Indo-Pacific. Others in photo are Majority Leader Manuel Jose Mannix M. Dalipe (2nd left) of Zamboangas 2nd District, Deputy Speaker Aurelio Dong Gonzales Jr. (2nd right) of Pampangas 3rd District, Navotas City Rep. Tobias Toby Tiangco (3rd right), Agusan del Norte 1st District Rep. Jose Joboy S. Aquino II (right), Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Babe del Gallego Romualdez (3rd left), and House Secretary General Reginald Reggie Velasco. Ryan Ponce Pacpaco

House sergeant-at-arms retired Gen. Napoleon Taas.

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The Speaker said the meeting with Rep. Kim centered on defense and security engagement, which remain a key pillar of the Philippines-US bilateral relations.

We asked for the continued US congressional support for defense and economic security, he said.

On top of our strong military security with the United States, Rep. Kim has vowed to work with us to further strengthen and expand the countrys economic security with them. This partnership will boost productivity, drive economic growth, and generate new jobs, Romualdez added.

He announced that a US legislative delegation led by Rep. Kim will visit the Philippines in November this year to further solidify their agreement to expand PH-US economic cooperation.

Romualdez recalled that in recent engagements, the US has repeatedly emphasized the strategic importance of the Philippines, as well as the PH-US alliances vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Speaker Romualdez underscored the importance of strengthening the Philippine economy by fostering investment growth in partnership with the US for a better future for the Filipino people.

Our strong strategic economic partnership will enhance economic cooperation that is very important for sustainable growth and development.

For his part, Ambassador Romualdez said the fruitful meeting will help expand economic engagement to build a resilient Philippine economy.

She (Rep. Kim) is very pleased to meet the Speaker (Romualdez) and the members of his delegation. She [would] like very much to continue the dialogue and plans to be in Manila and her congressional delegation sometime this November, Ambassador Romualdez said.

I think they want to work with our legislative branch in the Indo-Pacific Region because she is the chair of the Foreign Relations Subcommittee on the Indo-Pacific, he added.

There is no doubt that our security alliance with the US played a key role, but it is clear that ensuring economic security is equally critical in order to build a resilient and inclusive economy that will strengthen both the Philippines and the United States. Solidifying our alliance through more trade and investments can increase commerce, empower our people and ensure a peaceful, secure, and prosperous environment for all of us, Ambassador Romualdez said.

Speaker Romualdez noted that economic security became a more pressing concern following the Covid-19 pandemic.

We have to work together by expanding and prioritizing our investments. Fostering economic cooperation and facilitating trade are keys for long-term growth and stability, he said.

The Speaker also made sure to ask about the status of Filipinos in Rep. Kims district, which includes the northern parts of Orange County. In 2018, the Filipino population in Orange County was estimated to be 89,000.

Rep. Kim was the first South Korean-born Republican woman elected to the California State Legislature.

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After an astounding 35-year run, Andrew Lloyd Webber's The Phantom of the Opera took its final bow on Broadway Sunday night at the Majestic Theatre in New York City. The emotionally charged closing night included a heartfelt dedication to Webber's late son Nick who died last month of gastric cancer. Former Phantom leading lady Sarah Brightman also returned to the stage Sunday for a special performance.

With a staggering 13,981 performances, Phantom has firmly secured its status as the longest-running Broadway production, boasting an impressive estimated $1 billion in gross revenue.

Deadline:
Nora Aunor in the period-drama Tatlong Taong Walang Diyos

ABS-CBN Film Restoration continues to take centerstage overseas as it featured its digitally restored classics at the 29th Vesoul International Film Festival, an annual film fest highlighting Asian cinema, which happened recently in France.

Among the digitally restored titles screened from its Sagip Pelikula initiative are the 1976 family-drama classic Nunal sa Tubig starring Elizabeth Oropesa, the period-drama Tatlong Taong Walang Diyos featuring Nora Aunor, and Star Cinemas historical-drama Dekada 70 top-billed by Vilma Santos, Christopher de Leon, and Piolo Pascual.

Apart from its screenings on the international big screen, ABS-CBN Film Restoration head Leo Katigbak had the opportunity to share the state of Philippine cinema and film restoration today with the international film audience as one of Vesouls guest speakers.

Leo also shared his delight in international attendees interest in taking digitally restored classics to more international film festivals, following the screenings of the featured titles during the Vesoul Filmfest.

Its also been heartwarming to receive many inquiries for our restored films to participate in festivals. I think our restored classics are finding an audience that remembers, discovers, or rediscovers these films by virtue of the fact that even some five decades ago, we were already getting noticed in foreign festivals. I feel that the foreign attention will also benefit us here since it gives the films prominence and a higher profile, Leo added.

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Despite the clamor of bringing more restored Filipino classics to global shores is much evident today, he then added that theres more work needed to be done locally in promoting the withstanding legacy of Philippine cinema through restoration efforts, and that is what Sagip Pelikula, alongside partner organizations including the FDCP, has been working on for the longest time.

As to what to expect from ABS-CBN Film Restoration and its Sagip Pelikula initiative, Katigbak said they are continuing their efforts despite ABS-CBNs recent struggles as they dig deeper into their archive and restore older titles ranging from pre-World War II to the golden age of Philippine cinema during the 50s, with soon premiering the digitally restored version of the 1950 melodrama classic Mutya ng Pasig this April among others.

Today, Sagip Pelikula has restored and remastered over 200 titles since its launch, with inclusions of marquee titles such as Himala, Oro, Plata, Mata, Ganito Kami Noon, Paano Kayo Ngayon, Kakabakaba Ka Ba?, Ibong Adarna, among many others.

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Manila, Philippines  Luster, a leading dental care brand, is proud to announce the launch of its revolutionary teeth whitening product in the Philippines. These advanced teeth whitening solution is specially designed to help individuals achieve brighter and whiter teeth, quickly and easily.

With Lusters new teeth whitening product, consumers can now enjoy a brighter and more confident smile. This innovative product is formulated with the latest technology and uses safe, effective ingredients that are gentle on teeth and gums. Lusters teeth whitening product is also easy to use, with visible results in as little as 5 days.

Were thrilled to bring our advanced teeth whitening technology to the Philippines, said the Luster representative. Our goal is to help people achieve the bright, white smiles theyve always dreamed of. With our new product, individuals can now whiten their teeth at home, without the need for expensive dental treatments.

Lusters teeth whitening product is online through the Luster online shopping website:

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About Luster:

Luster is a leading dental care brand that specializes in creating innovative products that promote oral health and hygiene. With a focus on research and development, Luster aims to provide consumers with safe and effective dental solutions that are easy to use and affordable.

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Underwater photographer Ibrahim Shafeeg known as 'The Shark Guy' filmed the moment when diver Carmen Canovas Cervello was attacked by a 90-kilo nurse shark at Vaavu Atoll in the Maldives.

The woman, a 30-year-old nurse, received a bite on her back which measured 15 centimetres in diameter.

"We decided to go on a free diving trip to Shark Bay and snorkel inside a group of sharks," explained Ibrahim Shafeeg, who filmed the attack on his diving partner with his GoPro camera, in Drum World.

The Shark Guy acknowledged that they swam for about 45 minutes among a group of 10 nurse sharks.

"After the shark bite, we didn't think anything major, as it was only a minor injury, so we cleaned the wound and continued diving in the same spot again," explained Ibrahim Shafeeg.
Former Manchester United player Javier 'Chicharito' Hernandez has been showing off his new girlfriend following his split from Sarah Kohan in 2021.

Chicharito is currently playing for LA Galaxy in MLS and he is trying to help the team out of the crisis that they are currently in.

He has been at LA Galaxy since January 2020, meaning he is one of the more settled components of the team.

He recently made his relationship with Nicole McPherson official after much mystery about his love life after the split from Kohan.

On Valentine's Day 2022, Hernandez put an end to the speculation and published his first photograph with his current partner.

Who is Nicole McPherson?

Nicole McPherson was born in Ecuador in 1994. She is 28 years old, and has been with the striker for almost two years. They both live in the United States.

In Ecuador, her family has been linked to politics, since her grandmother, Gloria Gallardo, has had an active political life, holding various political positions.

Nicole is a young entrepreneur, model and influencer. She is dedicated to the world of fashion and beauty.

She is the ambassador of different brands and has a large number of followers on social media, with more than 74,000 people following her on Instagram.
Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni announced that a Waterbury man will plead guilty in three Springfield shooting deaths, one of which took place as far back as 2006.

Calvin Roberson, 41, will appear at Hampden Superior Court in Springfield to plead guilty to the shootings on Tuesday, according to Gullunis office.

Gulluni called the investigative work  including by three districts of the FBI  that led to Tuesdays expected guilty plea nothing short of extraordinary.

Through the phenomenal investigative work done collectively by these partner agencies, we will give victims families answers and justice as the defendant admits his guilt in taking their loved ones from them, Gulluni said in a statement.

Roberson will plead guilty to to the deaths of Loan Nguyen, 30, and brothers Yonaides and David Pichardo, 28 and 27.

Nguyen was shot to death on Dec. 7, 2006, at Perfect Nails II, where she worked, according to Gullunis office. Roberson and two other masked men came in to try to rob the business and tied up Nguyen and two others. Police found Nguyen laying in a pool of her own blood with a gunshot to the head, according to officials.

The Pichardo brothers were shot to death in 2016 and 2017, officials said. Yonaides Pichardo was shot in the head on Oct. 11, 2016, and found in his car by Springfield police. David Pichardo was shot on Oct. 19, 2017, while doing laundry at LaundroMax on Boston Road, officials said. He was taken to Baystate Medical Center, but died there, according to officials.

Roberson has been held in federal custody since February of 2021, charged in the kidnapping and death of 31-year-old Chicopee man Francisco Roman, officials said. Romans body was found in a burning vehicle in Hartford on Dec. 26, 2020, after being reported missing by family members on Christmas Day, according to officials.

The investigation that led to Robersons arrest involved the Massachusetts State Police, Chicopee police, Hartford police, FBI New Haven, FBI Boston, FBI Atlanta and the U.S. Attorneys Offices for the Districts of Connecticut, Massachusetts and Georgia.

Gulluni will speak more about the investigation Tuesday afternoon shortly before Robersons court hearing.
SPRINGFIELD  These days, every customer of Donovans Irish Pub in the soon-to-be demolished Eastfield Mall has the same question for Frank Garaughty, who owns the restaurant with his wife Justine.

Where are you moving?

Every customer.

In response to the question, Garaghty said, We dont have a location right now. Were still working on it.

He said Monday there are some hopeful prospects and he believes hell have more to announce in a few weeks.

The ideal solution would be to move to a location here in Springfield, he said.

But with time running short  Eastfield Mall closes in July  the Garaughtys are looking outside the city.

But it will be in the Springfield area, he said.

Onyx Partners Limited plans to demolish the mall, all except the former Sears store which is under separate ownership, and build an open-air shopping plaza thatll cost between $65 million and $85 million. Construction will take about two years.

Onyx expects to finalize its purchase of the property from Mountain Development this week. The company will also present its plans to the Springfield Planning Board 6 p.m. Wednesday in City Hall as it asks the city for a zoning charge.

The project is also expected to be on the Springfield City Councils agenda April 24 for a special use permit.

Two weeks ago, Onyx and Mayor Domenic J. Sarno announced that Eastfield Malls current tenants would be able to stay without paying rent or utilities from now until the mall closes in July. The mayors office and the Economic Development Council of Western Massachusetts is helping businesses relocate.

That rent and utility forgiveness means about a $500,000 benefit to the tenants. As of now, the mall has 43 local stores and businesses ranging from Donovans to push carts and kiosks. There are 10 national retailers in the building.

Redevelopment plans dont include the former Sears and Sears Auto Center, which are under separate ownership.

The Garaughtys have owned Donovans for seven years. Mike and Diane Donovan started the business in 2000.

When the the Eastfield Mall opened in 1967, it was Greater Springfields first enclosed mall and it featured Forbes & Wallace and Steigers along with Sears as anchor retailers.
County officials were allegedly caught in an audio recording talking about assassinating a journalist and lynching Black people in McCurtain County, Oklahoma. (Listen to audio below, posted by Heartland Signal).

Publisher of the McCurtain Gazette newspaper, Bruce Willingham, had purposely left behind an audio recorder to prove that secret meetings were taking place, according to Tulsa's Newson6, only to later listen in horror as he played back a conversation in which Sheriff Kevin Clardy, Commissioner Mark Jennings, and Investigator Alicia Manning allegedly talked about killing the publisher and his son, Chris Willingham, who is also a journalist.

The officials  who are now under Federal investigation and are being called to resign  also bemoaned the fact that you can't hang Black people anymore.

Some of the conversation from the audio below, taken from a transcript supplied by Newson6, includes:

Jennings: If it was back in the day, when that when Alan Marshton would take a damn Black guy and whoop their ass and throw him in the cell? I'd run for fucking sheriff. Sheriff: Yeah. Well, It's not like that no more. Jennings: I know. Take them down to Mud Creek and hang them up with a damn rope. But you can't do that anymore. They got more rights than we got.  Jennings: I've known, I've known two or three hit men, they're very quiet guys And would cut no fucking mercy  In Louisiana, 'cause this is all Mafia around here. Manning: Yeah, but here's the reality. If a hair on his wife's head, Chris Willingham's head, or any of those people that really were behind that, if any hair on their head got touched by anybody, who would be the bad guy? Manning: They are insignificant in my life, really.  Sheriff: The old saying is, what goes around goes around. It will. I told you it will. Jennings: I know where two big deep holes are here if you ever need them. Sheriff: I've got an excavator. Jennings: Well, these are already pre-dug.
Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell wants to do away with the title of top cop.

Its a title that state attorneys general often carry as the top law enforcement officer with all the influence the office wields. The role launched Governor Maura Healey into national prominence as she fought for reproductive rights and became a thorn in the side of President Donald Trumps administration during her years as attorney general  she sued nearly 100 times and often prevailed.

Vice-President Kamala Harris often referred to herself as Californias top cop when she served as the states Attorney General before being elected as a U.S. Senator.

For Campbell, elected last fall as the first Black attorney general in Massachusetts, she sees an opportunity to be better known as the peoples lawyer.

Its really re-introducing the office, under my leadership, and of this incredible team, Campbell said during a recent visit to the MassLive offices in Springfield. Making sure the average person not just knows who I am as Attorney General, but knows the breadth and scope of the office, the responsibility of the office, and all that it does to help consumers and businesses  and it is significant.

In a budgetary meeting before the states Joint Committee on Ways and Means on April 4, Campbell laid out her funding requests for four new divisions, signs of her priorities in office: a Reproductive Justice Unit, an Elder Justice Unit, a Gun Violence Prevention Unit and a Police Accountability Unit.

The scope of the office encompasses rooting out fraud and corruption, investigating and prosecuting crime, and protecting the rights of workers and civil liberties. In an interview with MassLive, Campbell outlined her priorities as her tenure approaches the 100-day mark.

Its rebranding and reintroducing, all at the same time, Campbell said about her offices early outreach efforts to residents in Massachusetts. In language and with priorities that folks will understand and, hopefully, get excited about and get to know the office and the incredible work it does every day.

Early housing issue victory

In 2022, housing issues made up the highest number of complaints received by the consumer protection division of the Attorney Generals Office.

Affordability continues to rise to the top, Campbell said. Already you see the office standing up in the housing space when it comes to enforcement of laws that can help deal with the affordability issue.

Campbell recently notched a victory against a real estate brokerage called MV Realty, which her office accused of using deceptive practices against struggling homeowners.

MV Realty has used malicious marketing practices to prey on, lie to and financially exploit hundreds of homeowners across Massachusetts, stripping home equity from cash-strapped consumers, she recently said.

Her office secured a preliminary injunction against MV Realty as part of an ongoing lawsuit in Suffolk Superior Court, which will prevent the realty company from continuing to get additional mortgages during the litigation and requires the company to release existing ones.

This preliminary injunction will stop MV Realty from further harming our residents and serves as a model for attorneys general offices across the country to fight back against these kinds of predatory practices, Campbell said.

In the injunction ruling, Justice Kenneth Salinger wrote that the realty company engaged in deceptive deals with more than 400 Massachusetts residents. The company reportedly advanced money to cash-strapped homeowners in exchange for a 40-year exclusive right to their home for sale as a non-agent facilitator, with a right to repayment of at least 10 times the original loan amount.

Were going to continue to go after these products that we know are being utilized to target certain populations of folks (that) essentially steal their money and/or steal their homes, Campbell said.

Other housing areas Campbell said her office will tackle include housing discrimination, closing the wealth gap and landlord-tenant issues.

Already, since she took office in January, her office has received close to 1,000 complaints around renting concerns, many of them based on sanitary conditions, according to Campbell.

AG Campbells priorities

The funding requests Campbell made for four new divisions show where some of priorities lay: older residents in Massachusetts, reproductive justice, gun violence and police accountability.

We are here to protect and of course make sure that communities in which our residents live are healthy and safe, Campbell said. Were also an office that has tools to ensure economic opportunity and stability for residents.

As part of Campbells desire to provide more protection for older residents of Massachusetts, she wants to create what she called a one-stop shop for residents, consumers and advocates within the Attorney Generals Office.

That is essential because were seeing an uptick when it comes to consumer protection cases  scams of elders  including major concerns around how theyre treated in say long-term facilities and nursing homes, Campbell said.

The Attorney Generals Office is having conversations with leaders of law enforcement around the state, including police chiefs, various police associations and leadership at the Massachusetts Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Commission, as part of its initiatives around gun safety and police accountability.

During a February appearance of GBHs Basic Black, Campbell said that the gun enforcement unit will handle legal briefs in court to enforce the states gun laws. The unit will also be responsible for educating police departments on conducting gun inspections.

In December, a Boston Globe investigation found that dozens of police departments in Massachusetts were unaware they were required to make annual gun shop inspections, and the Globe found that at least 235 dealers reported 356,000 in-state sales with no oversight from local law enforcement since 2017.

When it comes to reproductive justice, the Attorney Generals Office is actively recruiting a director for the pending unit, who will be charged with developing a strategic plan for the unit.

That is at the top of the list, locally and nationally, in terms of just basic constitutional rights that quickly were overturned, Campbell said in the wake of last years Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. I think there is a desire, both locally and nationally, to not only support a unit that can work across the various divisions and bureaus in the office to ensure folks have access to this critical health care and healthcare services.
After the bodies of a Medford couple were found in a Boston storage unit, a man who knew the couple is expected to appear in court Tuesday in connection with their deaths, Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan said.

Investigators found the bodies of Kiryl Schukin, 37, and Pavel Vekshin, 28, early Saturday morning inside a storage unit on North Beacon Street in Brighton. Officials said both men died from stab wounds.

They were located inside rubber storage bins, the district attorneys office said. And Schukin had been dismembered, officials added.

Bleach, rubber gloves and items belonging to the deceased were also located, the district attorneys office said.

Read more: Ezekial Santiago charged after Worcester police say he used machete in road rage attack

Leonid Volkov, 37, of Medford, was later arrested and charged with murder, Ryans office said.

Volkov knew both men as Schukin had been a guarantor on the lease for Volkovs apartment. But officials said Schukin had recently said he wasnt going to be the guarantor on the lease extension. That, officials added, resulted in Volkov getting evicted.

Volkov and Schukin met in a rented U-Haul on March 29, the district attorneys office said.

Friends and coworkers reported Schukin and Vekshin missing on April 9. But the Medford Police Department said the two men had not been seen or communicated with since March 30.

On April 14, police found the car of the men but did not find the two men. They also said their cell phones were off.

Read more: FBI agent says Jack Teixeira could have more classified documents at North Dighton residences

The district attorneys office said Volkov was seen on video entering and leaving the victims building in the days following the last time Vekshin and Schukin were seen.

In this particular case where the subjects are known to each other and we have the suspect in custody, we strongly believe there is no danger to the community, Medfords Chief of Police Jack Buckley said.

Volkov is expected to be arraigned on Tuesday in Somerville District Court.
The New England Aquarium successfully rehabilitated two dozen cold-stunned sea turtles in its care, releasing the animals back into the wild off the shores of North Carolina on Monday.

The aquarium said in a news release Tuesday that some of its biologists drove the 24 turtles down to Fort Fisher in the Tar Heel State from Massachusetts.

The reptiles  one green sea turtle and 23 critically endangered Kemps ridley sea turtles  underwent treatment at its Sea Turtle Hospital in Quincy for conditions such as pneumonia, dehydration and bone fractures which occurred due to their inability to regulate their body temperatures in the cold waters of Cape Cod Bay.

Once veterinarians had cleared the turtles to return to the ocean, the aquarium organized a ground transport of the group to an area where the waters are warm enough in the springtime for the turtles to re-acclimate, the aquarium said.

Read more: Meet the first African penguin chick hatched at the New England Aquarium in years

This year, the stranded turtles had a naming theme of pasta and noodle shapes with turtles named Fusilli, Pastine, Gemelli and Udon, among those released in North Carolina.

This is the best time of the year for us, said Adam Kennedy, the aquariums director of rescue and rehabilitation, in a statement. Getting the turtles back to their ocean home is why we do this, in hopes that each of these turtles helps their population bounce back from the possibility of extinction.

Staff and volunteers from the Mass Audubons Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary had rescued the turtles from Cape Cod beaches during the annual cold-stunning event, which began in November of last year and extended into January, according to the aquarium.

The rapidly changing ocean temperature and wind pattern causes many turtles to become hypothermic and strand onshore, the aquarium explained. Thats when the teams from Mass Audubon intervene to take the animals to the Sea Turtle Hospital to be triaged and rehabilitated, it added.

Over the course of the 2022 cold-stunning season, the New England Aquarium said it has treated 518 turtles.

The turtles require weeks or months of care depending on the severity of their illness  with staff veterinarians and biologists working to create individualized treatment plans for each hospitalized turtle, the aquarium said.

There are 26 turtles still yet to be released at the aquariums facility, it added. The aquarium said they will be let back into the wild in the summer months once the water of Nantucket Sound have warmed up.

Annually, the number of cold-stunned sea turtle strandings varies in the Bay State from year to year, but the aquarium noted the numbers have steadily increased from around 50 in 2000 to about 900 in 2022, making it the third-busiest season on record.

The aquarium added that based on statistical modeling that scientists have predicted by 2031, these numbers will rise and bring thousands of sea turtles to our shores annually.

The majority of the cold-stunned sea turtles that come to our hospital have a poor prognosis, but as they progress in their rehabilitation, you see them really start to get their spark back, said Alessia Brugnara, a rescue biologist who led the most recent turtle transport to North Carolina, in a statement.

Working with these turtles from the moment they come in off the frigid Cape Cod beaches, and seeing them swim away in the ocean, gives my job purpose, Brugnara added.
The Air Force is investigating how a lone airman could access and distribute possibly hundreds of highly classified documents, and in the meantime has taken away the intelligence mission from the unit where the leaks took place, Air Force leaders said Tuesday.

Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall told Congress he has directed the Air Force inspector general to go look at the Air National Guard 102nd Intelligence Wing based in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, where Airman 1st Class Jack Teixeira served and look at anything associated with this leak that could have gone wrong.

Teixeira, 21, was charged Friday in the U.S. District Court in Boston with unauthorized removal and retention of classified and national defense information. He is expected back in court for a hearing Wednesday.

The leaks have raised questions as to how a single airman could have removed so many documents without being detected, why there were not safety checks in place and how the documents could have lingered online undetected for months.

How could this guardsman take this information and distribute it electronically for weeks, if not months, and nobody knew about it? Democratic Sen. Jon Tester of Montana asked the Air Force leaders testifying before a Senate defense appropriations subcommittee.

These are questions the Air Force is asking, too. For top secret information across the military, theres supposed to be accountable control officers who are responsible for recording active top secret documents and ensuring they have been either properly secured or disposed of, such as through a shredder or by burning them.

Pending further review, The 102nd Intelligence Wing is not currently performing its assigned intelligence mission. The mission has been temporarily reassigned to other organizations within the Air Force, the service said in a statement to The Associated Press.

In addition, the Air Force is conducting a service-wide review of how each command handles classified information, Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. C.Q. Brown told members of subcommittee.

The Air Forces own reviews are on top of a military-wide review directed on Monday by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. Austin has ordered that all military facilities that handle classified information report to him within 45 days on how they access, share, store and destroy the nations secrets following the leaks.

Read more: FBI agent says Jack Teixeira could have more classified documents at North Dighton residences

The leaked documents exposed to the world unvarnished secret assessments on the war in Ukraine, the capabilities and geopolitical interests of other nations and other national security issues.

Teixeira posted the highly classified material in a geopolitical chat room on Discord, a social media platform that started as a hangout for gamers.

He had access to some aspects based on his job as a cyber administrator. He took advantage of that access, Brown said.
Members of the states congressional delegation are calling for more information and accountability from military leaders after federal prosecutors charged a 21-year-old Massachusetts Air National Guardsman with leaking highly classified government documents on a social media platform for gamers.

Congressmen Jake Auchincloss and Seth Moulton said officials at the Air National Guard and Pentagon need to provide answers as to how a low-level airman could have facilitated a security breach like the one investigators accuse Airman Jack Teixeira of inducing. The calls come as top Air Force officials are starting to hone in on Teixeiras National Guard unit at Joint Base Cape Cod.

Moulton, who served in the Marine Corps and is a member of the House Armed Services Committee, said when someone is in the military, as with any organization, there has to be accountability for alleged wrongdoing.

My job description as a Marine platoon commander was very simple: you are responsible for everything your platoon does or fails to do. And so we also do have to look at this airmans chain of command and see if theres anything that they missed, Moulton said in an interview. ... The Massachusetts National Guard should fully take responsibility for the fact that this happened under their watch.

Read more: FBI agent says Jack Teixeira could have more classified documents at North Dighton residences

Auchincloss, a Marine Corps veteran, said if Teixeira is found guilty of leaking classified documents, he should be punished for that.

The Pentagon, and potentially the Air National Guard, should have a procedure and policy conversation about why it is that a junior enlisted Air National Guardsmen can print out Ukrainian war plans being briefed to the Joint Staff, Auchincloss said.

We in Massachusetts are very proud of our National Guard and remain very proud of our National Guard, but they, along with the Pentagon, do have to answer and be accountable for security breaches on their watch, Auchincloss said in an interview.

Massachusetts National Guard spokesman Don Veitch said national security is their foremost priority, and any attempt to undermine it compromises our values and degrades trust among our members, the public, allies and partners.

We are fully cooperating with the FBIs investigation into the alleged actions of Jack Teixeira. Should this investigation or any subsequent inspections identify issues with procedures in handling classified information, we will not hesitate to take appropriate measures, Veitch said in a statement to MassLive.

Veitch declined to comment on specific aspects of the investigation and referred questions to the Department of Justice and FBI. A spokesperson for the FBIs Boston Bureau declined to comment.

Top U.S. Air Force officials are also starting to focus their attention on an Air National Guard intelligence unit based out of Cape Cod.

Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall said Tuesday that he directed the Air Force inspector general to look at Teixeiras unit and anything associated with this leak that could have gone wrong. And in the meantime, the Air Force took away the intelligence mission from the unit where the leaks occurred.

FBI investigators accused Teixeira in court documents of at first posting transcripts of sensitive information to a Discord server in December 2022 before uploading photos of documents containing U.S. classification markings to the social media platform in January 2023.

Massachusetts Air National Guardsman Jack Teixeira, right, appears in U.S. District Court in Boston, Friday, April 14, 2023. He is accused in the leak of highly classified military documents as prosecutors unsealed charges and revealed how billing records and interviews with social media comrades helped pinpoint Teixeira. (Margaret Small via AP)AP

Prosecutors have charged him with unauthorized retention and transmission of national defense information and unauthorized removal and retention of classified documents or material in connection to the leak of one document accessed in February 2023 describing the status of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Teixeira faces up to 15 years in prison.

A judge ordered Teixeira to remain in federal custody pending a detention hearing scheduled for Wednesday morning in a Boston federal courtroom.

A public defender appointed to represent Teixeira did not immediately respond to an inquiry.

The FBI believes Teixeira may have more documents in two residences in Dighton, according to a 20-page application for a search warrant filed last week in federal court.

FBI Special Agent Victoria Horne asked a judge last week for permission to search residences on Maple and Walker streets because there is reason to believe that additional classified information is currently being stored in an unsecure manner.

The leak of the documents  which, outside of the war in Ukraine, also describe U.S. intelligence-gathering efforts in allied countries like South Korea  may have long-term impacts on the United States ability to collect information because they can expose sources, methods and budgets, Moulton said.

One of the worst outcomes, Moulton said, is a U.S. spy in Russia or China getting killed because their identity is exposed through the leaked documents. The documents may also have on-the-ground effects in Ukraine, he said.

Frankly, I am so shocked that were talking about a 15-year prison sentence here because he has risked, I mean, this will cost lives, Moulton said. Its impossible to imagine that more Ukrainians wont die because of this leak, and yet, were just talking about a 15-year prison sentence for this kid.

Auchincloss also pointed to potential impacts the leak could have on a Ukrainian counteroffensive reportedly planned for this spring or summer.

The United States, if anything, needs to use these leaks as a call to action to double down on our support in terms of arms, money and intelligence to our Ukrainian allies, he said.

Teixeira worked at the Air National Guard as a cyber defense operations journeyman at the Otis Air National Guard Base in Massachusetts. He is an airman first class and enlisted in the National Guard in September 2019, according to court documents.

He served in the 102nd Intelligence Wing of the Air National Guard, which says its mission is to provide worldwide precision intelligence and command and control along with trained and experienced airmen for expeditionary combat support and homeland security.

Court documents said Teixeira had a top-secret security clearance and sensitive compartmented access to other highly classified programs, both of which he received in 2021.

U.S. Rep. Richard Neal said the work of the Massachusetts Air National Guard should not be diminished because of the reckless actions of one individual.

They work tirelessly to support and defend us here in the Commonwealth and throughout the country, he said in a statement to MassLive. That said, every service member takes an oath of loyalty to the Constitution, and the leak of classified documents is an affront to our democratic institutions. I fully anticipate that our legal system will bring this individual to justice.

Materials from the Associated Press were used in this report.
Nucleon Security , one of the leading cybersecurity companies in Europe & Africa, is proud to announce its participation to GITEX Africa 2023, one of the most important events in the African technology industry. The event will be held from May 29th to June 2nd, 2023 in Marrakech, and Nucleon Security will be present as an exhibitor at Hall 7 booth 7A-6 to present its latest cybersecurity solutions.

GITEX Africa 2023 is a premier event for information and communication technology companies to establish strategic partnerships, explore new business opportunities and discuss market trends in Africa. With attendees from across Africa and around the world, the event will provide unprecedented networking and collaboration opportunities for Nucleon Security.

A few months after its entry into the African market, Nucleon Security confirms its position as a major cybersecurity player in Africa with the participation in this event. During GITEX Africa 2023, the Nucleon Security team will be present to discuss the latest trends in cybersecurity, present the most innovative solutions and interact with participants to understand the unique needs of each company.

We are excited to participate in GITEX Africa 2023 and meet with IT and communications industry professionals from across Africa and the world, said Anas Chanaa, CEO at Nucleon Security. We look forward to showcasing our industry-leading cybersecurity solutions, hearing feedback from attendees, and discussing best practices in IT asset security to help organizations protect themselves from current and future security threats.

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A Budweiser factory in Los Angeles was forced to clear out its workers after anti-LGBTQ conservatives sent in a bomb threat by email on Thursday  one of several bomb threats targeting various Anheuser-Busch locations across the U.S. in the last two weeks. After years of fearmongering by Fox and other MAGA "news" outlets that hammer the right-wing mob with anti-gay, anti-trans, and anti-drag rhetoric, creating a handful of beer cans celebrating trans influencer Dylan Mulvaney has triggered conservatives into full-blown madness.

From LGBTQ Nation:

One employee of Anheuser-Busch InBev  which owns Budweiser  said that the company's facilities across the country have been getting bomb threats in the wake of conservative anger over an Instagram video from two weeks ago. "There was a search that was conducted in the premise of the building but there was nothing identified as a threat," she said, adding that an LAPD bomb squad was dispatched. "We did assist in clearing the perimeter of the building." Republicans have been tripping over themselves to denounce Bud Light. Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL) said on Sean Hannity's Fox News show last week that the U.S.'s allies will abandon the country because of the Mulvaney video. Rep. Dan Crenshaw (R-TX) posted a video to social media announcing his "boycott" of Bud Light, only to get made fun of for showing his refrigerator full of other beers sold by Anheuser-Busch. Conservative musician Kid Rock shot up four cases of Bud Light with a semiautomatic weapon and posted the video to social media. Fox News pundit and failed gubernatorial candidate Caitlyn Jenner  who is transgender herself  accused Mulvaney of "trying to erase women" for a Nike partnership Mulvaney announced.

"We never intended to be part of a discussion that divides people," Anheuser-Busch said in a statement. "We are in the business of bringing people together over a beer."

In reality, Budweiser is in the business of selling beer, plain and simple, and according to The New York Times, the Mulvaney controversy won't hurt the company in the long run  on the contrary, it might just help.

From NYT:
Following similar action by NPR and PBS, CBCthe Canadian Broadcasting Companyhas suspended use of Twitter after the site attached the "government-funded media" flag to its account there. Though formally accurate, such tags historically indicate media whose editorial content is directly controlled by governments. Twitter boss Elon Musk had inaccurately attached the state affiliation tag to NPR, then changed the wording of the tag and applied it to other accounts after being informed of his mistake. Other companies receiving government funding, not least Musk's own, are not likewise tagged.

"Twitter can be a powerful tool for our journalists to communicate with Canadians, but it undermines the accuracy and professionalism of the work they do to allow our independence to be falsely described in this way," said corporate spokesperson Leon Mar. "Consequently, we will be pausing our activity on our corporate Twitter account and all CBC and Radio-Canada news-related accounts."

Musk's open about his hostility to mainstream media. This whole mini-imbroglio started out with him doing something impulsive and stupid (falsely claiming NPR was government-affiliated) but the unfolding outcomecritical media being undermined and intentionally marginalizing themselvesis a solid example of the "bad for business, good for the vibes" approach that characterize his intentions for Twitter. As dumb as it seems and likely is, it's all perfectly consistent with the very long history of what billionaires do with the media entities they buy.
By Orhan Orhun Unal

Logistics and infrastructure investments changed Turkiyes destiny in exports. Projects such as Istanbul Airport, Marmaray, and Northern Marmara Highway were effective in reaching the record export figure of $254bn in 2022. The road map is ready for the export of $400bn, which was set as the target for 2026. Innovations in areas such as increasing digitalization in customs, rapid access to the end user, e-commerce, and export incentives will be further developed.

Exporting a record $254bn in 2022, Turkiye owes this success to its 20-year foreign determination. In an environment where the pandemic conditions adversely affected the national economies, households around the world went to save money, and there was a freight crisis in global trade, our exporters did not leave a country, so to speak. Reaching more than 230 countries and regions, exporters set an export target of $400bn for 2026.

Turkiye became an alternative production base in the pandemic

Turkiye took important steps towards becoming a logistics base in its region during the period when European countries were experiencing shipping problems due to issues with supply originating from China. Thanks to the steps that turned the crisis into an opportunity, Turkiyes peaceful policies in the Russia-Ukraine war helped the development of regional trade. While the orders of the European Union and Middle East countries were directed to Turkiye, investment opportunities of Turkish companies in Russia, which was under the clamp of sanctions, increased thanks to rational policies.

Infrastructure investments turned crises into opportunities

Turkiye, which has developed land, sea, and air trade thanks to projects such as Marmaray, Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge, and Northern Marmara Highway, has taken its place in the new equation after the pandemic. According to many experts, without these investments, Turkiye could not be expected to be an alternative to many countries, especially China. Thanks to transportation and port investments, the producers in different cities of Anatolia were able to send their goods abroad quickly and with the advantage of affordability.

Being the busiest in Europe in 2022, Istanbul Airport drew attention with its logistics investments. Having increased the export support of TRY4.4bn ($230m) in 2022 to TRY7.7bn ($400m) this year, Turkiye also steers the passenger transportation sector with its overseas offices and commercial attaches in different regions.

Turkiye's logistics and infrastructure investments in recent years have changed the fate of the country's exports. Many investments such as Istanbul Airport, Marmaray, and Northern Marmara Highway were effective in reaching the record export figure of $254bn in 2022.

With transportation projects, a producer in Anatolia sent its goods to different parts of the world quickly and with a cost advantage. Thanks to these investments, Turkey has turned into an alternative supply base in its region during the pandemic and the Ukraine War.

The road map that will lead Turkiye to export $400bn in 2026 is also ready. The AK Party is expected to further develop innovations in areas such as the increase in digitalization in customs, rapid access to the end user, e-commerce, and export incentives after the election.

Special attention to the retail industry

In addition to exports, Turkiye also drew attention to its developing domestic market. There are 3.1 million businesses in total in Turkiye and 723,000 of them operate in the retail sector. According to the data of the Ministry of Commerce, approximately 2.1 million people work in the sector. The turnover in the sector is TRY710bn ($36.60bn) and this turnover corresponds to 11.5 percent of the TRY6.2trl ($0.32trl) turnover generated in all sectors. The share of retail trade services in the GDP, which is approximately TRY3.1trl ($0.32trl), is at the level of 12 percent with TRY368bn ($19bn).
Disney is treating Ol' Puddin' Fingers like a joke. Shortly after DeSantis detailed his newest plans to take over the Reedy Creek special tax district, Disney ignored his threats and announced it would be holding its first-ever "Pride Night" at a Disney park.

https://twitter.com/SteveLemongello/status/1648053589741391873

Daily Beast:

The House of Mouse seemingly fired a shot across the bow at Ron DeSantis on Monday afternoon, promoting Disneyland's first-ever "Pride Nite" event in a tweet just hours after the Florida governor outlined new legislation seeking to wrangle the company as it attempts to resist a state takeover of its special taxing district. The California theme park's after-hours LGBTQ+ celebration, which will be held in June, was unveiled last Thursday. Its introduction comes as the Walt Disney Co. continues to face backlash from DeSantis' administration for objecting to his state's so-called "Don't Say Gay" law. Having latched onto the self-governing Reedy Creek Improvement District in the slugfest, the governor said Monday he wants to "make sure Disney lives under the same laws as everyone else." During his news conference, DeSantis floated the idea of raising taxes on Walt Disney World, and suggested building a prison or competing theme park in the district after the takeover. Disney did not immediately comment on the threats.

Disney After Dark events are great. I went to the Halloween "Oogie Boogie Bash" last year and it was amazing.
Cosmetic Dentistry Market Research Report Information by Product Type (Dental Systems and Equipment, Dental Implants, Dental Bridges, Dental Veneers, Dental Crowns, Orthodontic Braces, and Inlays & Onlays, Bonding Agents), By End-User (Hospitals, and Dental Clinics), And By Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, And Rest Of The World)  Market Forecast Till 2030

The Cosmetic Dentistry Market Size was valued at USD 3.1 billion in 2021 and is projected to grow from USD 3.46 Billion in 2022 to USD 6.68 billion by 2030, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.60% during the forecast period (2022  2030).

Cosmetic dentistry is a field of dentistry that focuses on improving the appearance of a persons teeth, gums, and bites. It includes a range of procedures and treatments that aim to enhance the aesthetics of a persons smile and improve their self-esteem and confidence. The cosmetic dentistry market includes products, services, and technologies that are used to perform these procedures, such as teeth whitening, veneers, dental implants, bonding, and orthodontics. This market is growing rapidly, driven by increasing consumer demand for better-looking teeth and the development of new, innovative cosmetic dental treatments and technologies.

Get Free Sample PDF Brochure @ https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/6369

During the COVID-19 pandemic the cosmetic dentistry market, with many practices temporarily closing or reducing services due to government-mandated lockdowns and social distancing measures. Patients were also hesitant to seek cosmetic dental treatments due to concerns over exposure to the virus. In some countries, there has been an increase in demand for cosmetic dental treatments as people look to improve their smiles after a prolonged period of stress and anxiety related to the pandemic. Additionally, the trend towards remote consultations and virtual consultations has emerged, allowing dental practices to continue offering cosmetic dental services while maintaining social distancing measures. Additionally, increased focus on hygiene and safety protocols is likely to become the new norm in cosmetic dental practices.

Cosmetic Dentistry Market Segmentation

The Global Cosmetic dentistry market has been segmented into Product, and End User

Based on the Product, the market has been segmented into Dental Systems & Equipment, Dental Implants, Dental Prosthetics, Orthodontics, Teeth Whitening, and Others.

Based on the End-user, the market has been segmented into Dental Hospitals & Clinics, Dental Laboratories, and Others

Key Players

Some of the key market players are

Align Technology, Inc.

Dentsply Sirona Inc.

Institut Straumann AG

Henry Schein, Inc.

Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc.

Ultradent Products, Inc.

3M Company

Danaher Corporation

Ivoclar Vivadent AG

GC Corporation

Regional Analysis

North America is the largest market for cosmetic dentistry, with the United States being the largest market in the region. The growth in this region is attributed to the high prevalence of dental problems, a large aging population, and high disposable income. Europe is the second-largest market, with countries such as Germany, France, and the United Kingdom contributing significantly to the market.

Browse In-depth Market Research Report (100 Pages) on Cosmetic Dentistry: https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/cosmetic-dentistry-market-6369

The Asia Pacific region is expected to experience the highest growth rate, driven by factors such as a large population base, rising disposable income, and increasing awareness of oral health. The key markets in the region include China, Japan, and India. The Middle East and Africa and Latin America are also expected to grow significantly, driven by increasing awareness and adoption of cosmetic dentistry.

Browse Related Reports at

Dental CAD/CAM market Research Report Information By Type (In-lab, and In-office), By Component (Milling machines, Dental printers, Scanners, Software), By End-user (Dental clinics, Dental laboratories, Milling centers), and By Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, And Rest Of The World)  Market Forecast Till 2030.

Dental Implants Market: Information By Type of Material (Titanium and Zirconium), By Procedure (Root-Form Dental Implants and Plate-Form Dental Implants), By End User (Hospitals & Clinics and Dental Research Laboratories)  Forecast till 2030

Orthodontic Supplies Market Research Report: By Product (Fixed Braces (Brackets & Others)), Removable Braces, Adhesives & Accessories), Patient (Children and Teenagers & Adults), (End User (Hospitals, Clinics & others)  Forecast Till 2030

About Market Research Future:

Market Research Future (MRFR) is a global market research company that takes pride in its services, offering a complete and accurate analysis with regard to diverse markets and consumers worldwide. Market Research Future has the distinguished objective of providing the optimal quality research and granular research to clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help answer your most important questions.

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Colin Davis McCarthy, 38, tossed $200,000 out of his car window on a Eugene, Oregon highway last week and encouraged drivers to stop and grab it. He told police he wanted to "gift" the money. From NPR:

Troopers asked McCarthy to stop throwing money onto the roadway because it was creating a traffic hazard, and he agreed. No criminal charges were being considered against him, officials said.

The Oregon State Police said responding troopers couldn't find any bills along the highway after the incident, saying drivers did a "thorough job of gathering the loose money."
by Colin Kirkland , April 17, 2023

Following controversial government-funded media labels recently being added to the Twitter accounts of NPR, PBS and the BBC, a handful of international news outlets including the Australian Broadcasting Company (ABC) reported the same treatment on Monday.

Over the past two weeks, both PBS and NPR left the microblogging social platform, expressing outrage at the labels foisted on them, and citing editorial independence and histories of unbiased reporting.

NPR was first labeled by Twitter as state-affiliated -- a title reserved for propagandist outlets like Russias RT. However, NPR receives less than 1% of its $300 million annual budget from the federally funded Corporation for Public Broadcasting.

Now, under CEO Elon Musk's oversight, Twitter is rolling out more government-funded media to global news outlets that -- like the outlets that have already been targeted -- claim to be independent of government control.

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The new wave of labels affects the ABC, Australia's Special Broadcasting Service (SBS), New Zealand's public broadcaster RNZ and Catalonia's TV3.cat.

Similar to the responses of NPR and PBS, the ABC tweeted that for over 90 years it has been an independent media organization free from political and commercial interests -- adding that  FYI: The ABC is a publicly funded broadcaster, governed by the ABC Charter which is enshrined in legislation.

Twitter defines government-funded media as outlets where the government provides some or all of the outlet's funding and may have varying degrees of government involvement over editorial content.

According to this definition, these labels are not technically incorrect, although news outlets like SBS are concerned that they could mislead readers into believing the outlet is editorially controlled by the respective government.

While we appreciate Twitter's motivations with regard to transparency on its platform, we believe a publicly funded media label better reflects the hybrid public-commercial nature of our funding model and the fact that SBS retains full independence from Government in our news editorial and content decision making, a spokesperson said in a statement.

Alongside the government-funded media label is publicly funded media which refers to organizations that receive funding from license fees, individual contributions, public financing, and commercial financing.

After an interview with BBC's James Clayton, Musk changed its label for the BBC to publicly-funded media.
by Sarah Mahoney @mahoney_sarah, April 17, 2023



Bud Light haters may not be as mad as they seem.

It's a tale as old as Facebook: Moral outrage about the objectionable person, brand or event du jour seems to divide the world into us versus them battlegrounds.

But new research from Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management reveals that people -- including brand marketers -- are pretty bad at reading how angry social media posters are.

The study finds that people perceive greater moral outrage in political posts than the authors felt when writing those posts. And that seems especially true for those turning to social media to learn about a political issue.

Using machine language, the researchers first identified people tweeting about American politics with either high or low levels of outrage. And within 15 minutes of the post, they contacted the authors of the tweet to ask them how they felt about what they wrote.

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They then showed 650 of these tweets to other people and asked them to rate the level of moral outrage they detected.

These observers were more likely to infer outrage than was actually present. (They did a better job estimating happiness.) In other words, they paid more attention to negative information -- which leads them to see social media as more polarized than it is, according to William J. Brady, the study's lead author and assistant professor of management and organizations at the Kellogg School.

Brady tells Marketing Daily that studying outrage has some interesting implications for brands. "'Moralized consumption,' where people choose brands based on their moral values, is rising, so outrage from one group could reduce sales temporarily while simultaneously boosting sales in another group."

He says some big brands likely make very conscious tradeoffs with certain campaigns. He uses Nike's 2019 campaign starring Colin Kaepernick as an example. "It might get some loud right-wing voices outraged on social media, but on average, it is increasing preferences toward the brand," he tells Marketing Daily via email.

Marketers need to resist the very human tendency to overreact to online vitriol. Rather than jumping to conclusions and ending a campaign, "you need to do market research before interpreting the social media outrage. The combination of algorithmic amplification and perception biases people have can make it seem that outrage is more intense than it really is," he says.

Of course, there are exceptions when it seems outrage might hurt market share. "These cases are exceedingly rare, however," Brady says. "In general, research shows that "canceling" is not nearly as prevalent as most people think it is."
by Wendy Davis @wendyndavis, April 18, 2023

The major social-media platforms are urging a federal judge to dismiss a sprawling class-action complaint alleging that Facebook, Instagram and others have injured teens' mental health.

The lawsuit represents the most recent in a long series of cases asking courts to impose product liability rules on speech and technologies that communicate it, including book publishing, movie and television distribution, video games, and, more recently, online services, attorneys for Meta, TikTok, Google and others say in a motion filed Monday with U.S. District Court Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers in Oakland, California.

She is presiding over litigation brought by dozens of parents, teens and others, who claim Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and other social media platforms have harmed minors. The complaint raises numerous claims, but largely center on the theory that social media companies designed their services to be addictive, and then served minors with potentially harmful content that other users had posted.

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The companies say they plan to argue they are protected by the First Amendment as well as Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, but are awaiting a decision from the Supreme Court about the extent to which Section 230 applies when companies algorithmically promote content. Section 230 generally immunizes online companies from liability for material posted by users.

For now, the social media platforms argue that the allegations in the complaint, even if true, wouldn't prove the various negligence and product liability claims against the companies.

For instance, the companies say they can't be held liable for negligence based on publishing content, because publishers have no duty to protect their audience from the effects of content publication or consumption.

The companies add that there is no legal obligation to prevent addictive services.

No court has created a duty of the type plaintiffs allege here in cases involving video game makers, magazine publishers, or television producers, and there is no basis for one here, the companies write.

The platforms also say the allegations in the complaint, even if proven true, wouldn't establish that the companies caused teens' injuries.

Plaintiffs do not include a single allegation attempting to link the alleged injuries to any individual plaintiff, or even to identify which plaintiffs used which features of the various services, the companies write.

The companies add that the plaintiffs are attempting to "commandeer" discussion about teens' mental health by attempting to apply legal principles applicable to physical products -- such as safety requirements for cars -- to online speech.

Time and again ... courts have rejected such attempts to transform the body of law governing dangerous 'products' into a tool to regulate how information is disseminated. For good reason: such claims are unsupported by any precedent anywhere and threaten to chill all manner of protected expression, the tech companies write.
by Ray Schultz , April 18, 2023

The states most likely to use artificial intelligence are not California and New York, as you might expect.

Utah is the state where AI is most widely used, based on Google keywords data, according to an analysis by AI-driven website builder YACSS.

The study examines the search terms most frequently used by people interested in AI.

In Utah, the most likely use for AI is art, followed by voice generator (generating human voices for games/films). The third use is music, animation and resume writing.

Second is Oregon. Like Utah, Oregon uses AI most for art, then voice generator, music, animation and resume writing.

The top 10 states and the number of monthly searches per 100,000 people are as follows:

Utah: 202.91 Oregon: 192.21 Washington: 187 Vermont: 173.08 Colorado: 170.03 Alaska: 169.03 New Hampshire: 164.13 Idaho: 159.87 Wyoming: 158.24 Maine: 156.64

advertisement advertisement

California ranks 12th, with 150.14, while New York is 37th, with 115.20 monthly searches.

The lowest-scoring state is Mississippi, with 74.14 monthly searches.

AI is frequently used to reduce time spent on tedious tasks as well as provide users with endless creative possibilities, and this is all available at the touch of a button," says a YACSS spokesperson. The most recent surge in popularity of ChatGPT has caused millions of Americans to use the tool in everyday life, introducing them to AI.
by Ray Schultz , April 18, 2023

Nicole Carroll will step down as editor in chief of USA Today on May 1 after five years in the role.

It was not clear at deadline what Carrolls future plans are.

Owner Gannett Co. is conducting a national search for Carroll's replacement. Michael McCarter will serve as interim editor in chief, in addition to his duties as managing editor of standards and ethics and Opinion.

Carroll assumed the post in February 2018 after leading Pulitzer-Prize-winning coverage at The Arizona Republic, a part of the USA Today Network.

USA Today became a majority-female newsroom in 2021 under Carrolls leadership. In addition, the paper hired more journalists of color, announcing plans to add or reassign journalists to new beats to cover inequities in the U.S.

Nicole Carroll has been a valued colleague and partner at USA Today and our news organization, says Kristin Roberts, newly appointed chief content officer at Gannett. We wish her all the best as she continues to advocate for quality journalism.

Carroll says she is interested in looking at the next chapter of my career and what that might be.
Omnicom Group reported organic revenue growth of 5.2% for the first quarter of 2023. Q1 results were released today after the close of market trading. The firm is the first of the major ad holding companies to report results for the period.

Organic growth (which excludes M&A and currency impact) by discipline in Q1 was as follows: 5.1% for Advertising & Media, 7% for Precision Marketing, 5.8% for Public Relations, 4.8% for Healthcare, 8.4% for Experiential, 3.6% for Execution & Support, and 3.3% for Commerce & Brand Consulting.

And by region: 5.1% for the U.S., 5.4% for Europe, 5.9% for the United Kingdom, 2.8% for Asia Pacific, 12.2% for Latin America and 9.5% for the Middle East & Africa.

The company confirmed on an earnings conference call that it took further steps in Q1 to cut back its real-estate portfolio given the transition to a more flexible working environment where staffers work at home part of the week. The firm recorded a pretax charge of $119.2 million related to those portfolio moves.

That said, Omnicom also recently mandated that employees work at least three days a week at the office. "We're a creative services company," Wren told analysts on the earnings call. "We work better when we're together."

The firm is also exploring the use of satellite offices to ease horrific commutes in some cities, like New York. Instead of traveling into Manhattan, CEO John Wren explained, staffers residing in the tri-state area can travel shorter distances to outposts set up in New Jersey, Connecticut and Long Island.

Wren also discussed a recent deal with Microsoft to explore opportunities utilizing generative artificial intelligence. The company is placing most, if not all, of its historical data on top of the tech firm's generative AI platform and is looking to create new models to interact with consumers.

The company is talking with clients about adding their data. Wren said there were more than a dozen projects being explored on both the back-office and revenue sides of the company. The firm's Omni platform is linked to an AI platform as well.

There are also many issues to be worked out before the company goes full steam ahead with GAI projects, said Wren. "There are lots of ethical and privacy questions," he said. "We need standards and rules in place," before deploying the technology to the full extent.
If you thought the portrayal of erotic scenes was new to Bollywood, then you might need to rewind a little to the late eighties when nudity in films was doing rounds.

Films like Utsav (1984) and Siddhartha (1972) have their fair share of bold scenes.

While the cinema has rarely gone out and about with steamy scenes up until the mid-2000s, it has always resorted to sexual innuendos and suggestive gestures when it comes to sex.

In the past three decades, the genre has flourished and produced many films with exceptional direction, thoughtful scripts, and sexually explicit content.

The appeal of these movies is not limited to their eroticism, but also their artistic merit. Today, the Indian film industry is more open to portraying sexuality in mainstream movies and web series with acclaimed actors taking on such roles.

But this was not the case since always. The audience and the authorities were not so receptive to the bold content.

Here is a list of such movies that sparked controversy due to their steamy scenes:

1. Kama Sutra: A Tale of Love (1996)

##JUMPLINK##

 IMDb

Directed by Mira Nair, the movie was set in 16th century India and explored the themes of love, lust, and power. While the film received mixed reviews and faced controversy for its sexual content, it also received critical acclaim for its artistic merits and was celebrated for being a bold and provocative portrayal of female sexuality.

The story revolves around two female friends, one of whom is a princess and the other a servant, and their intertwined lives, love affairs, and fierce competition. The servant rises to a position of influence after discovering the secrets of the Kama Sutra and catches the eye of King Raj Singh, the husband of the princess, as well as a court artist, who becomes infatuated with her.

It paved the way for future erotic films in Bollywood and opened up new possibilities for exploring sexuality and desire in Indian cinema.

2. Fire (1996)

 IMDb

Two sexually-barren marriages lead to love blossoming between two women, making it the first Indian movie to portray same-sex love explicitly. The film was far ahead of its time and faced significant controversy among Indian audiences.

Despite the backlash, Fire remains a landmark film in Indian cinema for its bold portrayal of homosexuality and its contribution to raising awareness about LGBTQ+ issues.

Shabana Azmi and Nandita Das make a bold choice with this one.

3. Satyam Shivam Sundaram (1978)

 IMDb

The film gained attention for its bold portrayal of Zeenat Aman and her revealing clothing, which was considered scandalous at the time. The film received criticism for its depiction of female sexuality, but it was a commercial success and is now considered a cult classic in Indian cinema.

The actor who recently made her Instagram debut is always lauded for her honest and bold choices.

4. Lipstick Under My Burkha (2016)

 IMDb

One of few films that talk about sexual agency for females. It explores the hidden desires and struggles of four women living in Bhopal, India.

Writer-director Alankrita Shrivastava didn't shy away from exploring the multifaceted aspects of female desire in her movie, which features women in lead roles and is directed by a woman.

The film depicts various aspects of desire, including the angry side, desperation, love, and everything in between.

In a particular scene, Ahana Kumra and Vikrant Massey's characters engage in an intimate act during Ahana's wedding to someone else, which is recorded on her phone. This scene effectively portrays how desire and anger can sometimes overlap and become indistinguishable.

The movie faced heated outrage and censorship in India and after being toiled in a lot of mess finally released in 2017.

5. Nishabd (2007)

 IMDb

The movie invited uproar not only due to the intimate scenes but also the plot line that was uncomfortable for many.

A love story between a 60-year-old man played by Amitabh Bachchan and an 18-year-old girl (Jiah Khan), the movie was banned in Allahabad as it apparently went against Indian values.

6. Parched (2016)

 Ajay Devgn FFilms

The controversy surrounding Parched mainly stemmed from its depiction of sexuality and women's empowerment, which was considered by some to be too explicit and provocative for Indian audiences.

The film features scenes of female nudity and sexual content, which caused some conservative groups to call for it to be banned.

In a film industry where such topics are seldom explored, this Bollywood movie delved into the sensitive issue of unfulfilled desires and needs of rural women.

The protagonist played by Radhika Apte is trapped in a loveless marriage with an abusive partner, and her true sense of liberation comes when she decides to defy social norms and engage in a sexual relationship with a guru who offers her the promise of a child.

However, it is not merely the promise of motherhood that emancipates her, but the act of defiance in pursuing her desires.

7. Rang Rasiya (2014)

Based on the life of the eminent painter Raja Ravi Verma, Rang Rasiya is a dramatised version of the novel Raja Ravi Verma by Ranjit Desai.

Starring Randeep Hooda and Nandana Sen, the film embraces nudity in all its glory and makes it look visually appealing rather than voyeuristic or vulgar.

It revolves around the life of the painter and his muse Sugandha and encapsulates the journey of Raja Ravi Verma where he is condemned from painting bare bodies. It sheds light on the restraints of creativity and beauty of the human body in the most provincial form.

The makers had to issue several disclaimers before getting it approved by the CBFC since there were claims that it would tarnish the image of the painter.

Final Thoughts

These movies were certainly daring attempts and became too hot to handle that some of these almost got banned. Let us know which one of these was the boldest in your opinion.
NOLA.com recently tweeted this photo of a t-shirt being sold at some Sam's Clubs in Louisiana. The t-shirt says "LOUISIANA" and includes a drawing of mountains and pine trees. I'm from Louisiana, and we certainly have lots of pine treesin fact, I'm from a town literally named after pine trees. We certainly don't have mountains, though. The highest point in Louisiana is Driskill Mountain in Bienville Parish, which is a whopping 535 feet high. Louisiana Travel explains:

Calling Driskill Mountain a "mountain"  while technically true  might need a little clarification. While considered a high point in Louisiana, elsewhere in the world, this little mountain would just be a hill. Consider its elevation: 535 feet above sea level. To put that in perspective, there are two buildings in downtown New Orleans that are taller than Driskill's summit. And compared to the largest mountains in the world, Mount Everest and Denali, you'd have to stack 55 and 38 Driskill mountains respectively to reach their summits.

I do find the shirt funny, because whoever printed it clearly had no clue about Louisiana, or didn't really care about finding out. What's not funny, though, is that not only does Louisiana lack mountains, in fact much of Louisiana is actually below sea level, and water levels continue to rise. And those rising water levels are a huge threat to Louisiana residents and wildlife, as PBS explains:

"For Louisiana, the stakes are immense," Daniel Gilford, a scientist at Climate Central, told the NewsHour. "Not including areas protected by levees, more than 46,000 people live on land within 2 feet of the high tide line. Those 2 feet of additional water threaten more than 23,000 Louisiana homes with an estimated value exceeding $2 billion. And under-resourced communities inevitably bear a disproportionate share of the risks."

PBS also explains that efforts are underway to try to better protect Louisiana's coastal communities, but honestly it seems like a mostly futile effort, sadly. To read more about the climate crisis in Louisiana and recent coastal protection efforts, read the rest of the PBS article here.
Anticharismatic authoritarian Ron DeSantis is pretending to be upset with Disney because they support LGBTQ kids. He's been trying his best to ruin Florida's economy by crippling Disney as part of his plan to install a fascist government in the Sunshine State. Well, his best isn't good enough. DeSantis may have been adequate as a Navy lawyer when he was tasked with justifying the abominable treatment of detainees in Guantanamo, but he's about as useful as a used firecracker when it comes to standing up to Disney's lawyers. In this episode of LegalEagle, lawyer Devin James Stone describes how Disney cleverly outmaneuvered DeSantis's clumsy attempt to punish Disney.

As one YouTube commenter astutely noted, "How could the party that's been allowing (and even fighting for) unchecked corporate influence in government be surprised when corporations actually use their unchecked influence in government?"
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An out-of-county man will serve time in the Huron County Jail for drilling into vehicle fuel tanks to steal gasoline in a series of incidents in northwest Huron County in 2022.

Jeffery Paul Brawford, 33, of Bay City, was sentenced by Huron County 52nd Circuit Court Judge Gerald M. Prill on Monday morning to 210 days in jail after Brawford pleaded no contest to two counts of malicious destruction of personal property, more than $1,000 but less than $20,000, and larceny from a vehicle earlier this year.
JEFFERSONVILLE, Ind. (AP)  A southern Indiana nurse facing a criminal charge for allegedly removing a nursing home residents oxygen mask hours before his death from COVID-19 will avoid jail time under a plea bargain.

Connie Sneed, 54, of New Albany, pleaded guilty Thursday in Clark Circuit Court to a felony charge of knowingly or intentionally acting as a physicians assistant without a license. She received a suspended sentence of 540 days.

The charge can be reduced to a misdemeanor if Sneed completes her probation successfully, court records show.

Sneed originally was charged in 2021 with practicing medicine without a license, which carried a potential penalty of one to six years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Authorities began investigating the mans April 2020 death at Wedgewood Healthcare Center in Clarksville after learning that Sneed wrote in a social media post that she had asked the man if he wanted her to remove his oxygen mask so he could fly with the angels.

In the Facebook post, Sneed called her alleged actions the hardest thing Ive ever done in 28 years, an inspection report from the Indiana Department of Health showed.

The man had been struggling after days of aggressive oxygen treatment for COVID-19, investigators said. Sneed wrote in her Facebook post that she saw him repeatedly try to take off his oxygen mask when she approached him and asked if he wanted her to remove it, the report said.

Clark County Prosecutor Jeremy Mull told The Indianapolis Star that it was important to him that Sneed be convicted of a felony because of the gravity of her actions. He said mitigating factors included Sneeds belief that she was helping a suffering patient, her distinguished nursing record and her acceptance of responsibility.

At the end of the day, the evidence left me convinced that Ms. Sneed was a nurse who deeply cared for her patients, but who made a mistake in judgment that led to a very serious result, Mull said in an email to the Star.

In an interview with state health inspectors a few days after the mans death, Sneed confirmed that she had removed his oxygen and said his daughter had told her if it was her fathers wishes, she could remove the mask.

A phone message seeking comment was left for Sneeds attorney.

Sneed, who had worked at Wedgewood for 15 years, was fired May 6, 2020, when it was determined she had violated the nursing homes policy and standard nursing practice by both administering and then removing the oxygen.

Her nursing license has been suspended since May 2021, state records show.
Young people in Michigan turned out to vote last November at a higher rate than any other state, according to the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement at Tufts University.

Voters aged 18 to 29 turned out at a rate of 36.5%, which was higher than any other state analyzed, according to the new data released by the center at the university's Tisch College of Civic Life. And the rate was "far higher" than the national average youth turnout rate of 23%.

Throughout the election cycle, the center's research highlighted that abortion was a "major motivating issue for young people." Michigan, where voters enshrined abortion rights in 2022, was one of a handful of states with an abortion-related measure on the ballot.

"They're smart, engaged and fighting for their future," Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said in January 2023 of Michigan's young people during her State of the State address. "Record turnout on campuses last November proved it."

The state, which led the nation in youth voter turnout, also had the highest increase in the number of youth registered to vote between 2018 and 2022.

Michigan, Pennsylvania, New York and Arkansas were the four states to have a higher youth turnout in 2022 than in 2018, which nationally had the highest youth turnout of any midterm in the past three decades, according to the center. In those first three states, Democrats won competitive statewide races for governor and/or U.S. Senate.

"While nationally youth turnout in 2022 did not match the historic high point in 2018, young peoples electoral engagement remains high compared to other recent midterms and reflects an upward trend in the youth vote over the past decade," Kei Kawashima-Ginsberg, Newhouse director of the center, said in an April 6 statement. "But the differences in turnout by state, as well as stubborn inequities by race and education, underscore that our institutions and communities have a lot of work to do."

Louisiana (16%), Oklahoma, Indiana, Alabama (all 15%), West Virginia (14%) and Tennessee (13%) had the lowest youth turnout rates.

"We continue working with Michigans colleges and universities and their local clerks to ensure young citizens can conveniently cast their ballot and know how to do so, and Im thrilled to see data recognizing the impact of our work," Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson said in a Monday statement. "A strong democracy requires informed and engaged citizens  and Michigan is leading the way in ensuring our youngest voters are active participants in determining our future."

Bensons administration implemented several electoral policy changes in recent years that could have increased the youth voter rate.

For instance, same-day and automatic voter registration and no-excuse absentee voting were implemented after Michigans voters overwhelmingly approved a 2018 constitutional amendment that mandated they be provided to all eligible citizens. In 2019 the administration also enabled online voter registration.

"As members of the College Student Advisory Task Force, we know firsthand the impact of youth voter turnout initiatives, sharing our experiences with each other and building institutional support for voting in our college communities," Rose Reilly, College Student Advisory Task Force member at the University of Michigan, said Monday.

"The work we did last year to gather voting information specific to students and share tips to engage our peers supports a rise in youth voting in our state," Reilly continued. "We hope that the knowledge we gained and shared in our policy change recommendations contribute to a continuing trend of future youth voter turnout increases."

The center at Tufts University based its findings on voter file data from 39 states for which age-specific voter file data had been aggregated by Catalist. "We define turnout as the percentage of all voting-eligible youth (as opposed to just registered youth), ages 18-29, who cast a ballot in 2022," the center wrote online.

It estimated that 23% of eligible young Americans nationwide cast a ballot in the 2022 midterm elections.
Developer Douglas Jemal is getting ready to start work converting a vacant East Side warehouse into a technology training campus for Bitwise Industries, which hopes to cultivate a diverse local workforce with the in-demand skills to succeed in sought-after jobs.

Jemal's Douglas Development Corp. plans to convert the three-story warehouse at 368 Sycamore St. into the California-based firm's Buffalo hub, where it will house its operations and hold classes.

Founded as a coding bootcamp in Fresno in 2013 and funded with venture-capital money, Bitwise seeks to develop scalable technology economies in under-represented cities, using software and systems like Salesforce and Docusign along with its own product development.

Bitwise now has or is planning campuses in nine additional cities, including Buffalo, and recently received an $80 million investment from several entities to support its growth.

"Its a great addition to Buffalo," Jemal said. "They're a fantastic operation."

Sign up for the Buffalo Next free newsletter The News' Buffalo Next team covers the changing Buffalo Niagara economy. Get the news in your inbox 5 days a week.

Jemal acquired the 32,698-square-foot building from Concept Logistics in March 2022, paying $615,000. At the time, he didn't have a tenant lined up, and wasn't sure if it would remain industrial or would become office space. The building, which is located in an Opportunity Zone, has two loading docks, an overhead door and 16-foot ceilings.

Under plans by Antunovich Associates, the 32,698-square-foot warehouse will be renovated to include office space on all three floors, along with a cafe and day care on the first floor. Work by Rodriguez Construction Group will also include new plumbing, mechanical and electrical infrastructure, as well as stabilizing the existing building, filling in the slab and installing new stairs.

"It's all technology and computers. It's hip space," Jemal said. "Its a day care center, a lot of ancillary things to make it part of the community."

Jemal said the $4 million project is expected to last about three to four months, with Bitwise moving in by September.

The 0.74-acre site is zoned as "mixed-use edge," but the developer initially sought variances from the Zoning Board of Appeals on April 19 for insufficient ground-floor transparency of just 45% and an excessive blank wall on the ground floor, both on the front facade.

According to its variance application, Douglas Development plans to put in new windows in the original window openings in the masonry, including some that were filled in with brick, but without enlarging those openings to achieve a 70% glass facade as the Green Code requires. That "restores the building to its original appearance and maintains the character of the building," without compromising the existing brick through structural modifications.

"The proposed solution is the structurally practical solution," the company wrote. "The proposed increase is still substantial and will increase walkability in the neighborhood."

The upper floors, by contrast, will have twice the amount of glass that's required, "increasing the transparency of the building as a whole."

However, the developer modified its proposal prior to the ZBA meeting, enabling it to meet the transparency requirements without the variances.
Officers with the Reed City Police Department responded to the following calls April 3-9. This is part of a report submitted by the Reed City Police Department and compiled by associate editor Julie Norwood. All calls may not be reported.

 Officers investigated a larceny report. Complainants alleged other family members stole from them while helping them move.

 The school liaison officer responded to a report of a student attempting to assault a staff member.

 A woman called to report her ex has been contacting her, which is a violation of his probation.

TUESDAY, APRIL 4

 Officers responded to another county where they arrested a 35-year-old man on four outstanding warrants: two for contempt of court, one for failure to appear and one for violating bond conditions. Officers transported him to the Osceola County jail without incident.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 5

 Officers took possession of an abandoned firearm reportedly found in a wooded area.

 Officers issued a misdemeanor appearance citation to a 48-year-old man for driving with a suspended license.

THURSDAY, APRIL 6

 Officers are investigation a report of a man who defecated in a wooded area open to the public. Police said they have no reason believe the man intentionally exposed him or knew he had been seen.

 The liaison officer issued two misdemeanor citations to two teens for being in possession of a vape device.

 The liaison officer issued two civil infraction citations to two teens for being in possession of a vape device.

FRIDAY, APRIL 7

 Officers responded to a report of young male juveniles allegedly throwing balls into the street in front of cars. The officer gave the juveniles a warning, and their mother said she would be taking disciplinary measures to correct their behavior.

 Officers responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle, but they were unable to locate it.

 Officers assisted Children's Protective Services in removing two juveniles from a home. Police began a joint investigation with CPS on March 30 for possible first degree criminal sexual conduct. The case is still under investigation, but police said charges will be sought.

SATURDAY, APRIL 8

 Officers issued a verbal warning to a group of teens on skateboards for allegedly not moving for traffic.

SUNDAY, APRIL 9

 Officers responded a complaint of disorderly conduct, however the caller changed his mind and withdrew his complaint.

 Officers issued an abatement notice for trash in violation of city ordinance.

 With the assistance from Osceola County deputies, Reed City police arrested a 24-year-old male on charges of aggravated domestic assault and lodged him in the Osceola County jail without incident.

MONDAY, APRIL 10

 Officers responded to an argument between landlords and tenants. As no crime had been committed, deputies advised both parties to figure out a way to get along.

 While standing by as a woman moved her belongings out of her boyfriend's house, deputies found the boyfriend had outstanding warrants. Deputies took the 54-year-old man into custody and turned him over to Mecosta County Sheriff's deputies.

TUESDAY, APRIL 11

 Officers are investigating a report of graffiti at the Depot building.

 Officers took a report of alleged Criminal Sexual Conduct between two teens. The matter is under investigation.

 Officers responded to a report of a smashed windshield in a parking lot. An investigation revealed the incident did not happen in the parking lot. A rock had struck the window on the freeway, and a report had already been filed with a different police agency

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 12

 The liaison officer took a report of a stolen watch by a younger juvenile. Police located the watch using the GPS tracking feature in it. It was recovered and returned to its owner.

THURSDAY, APRIL 13

 Officers took a noise complaint regarding a crowing rooster. An investigation revealed the rooster was out of the city limits. The owner, however, volunteered to take measures to keep it quiet for the benefit of neighbors.

FRIDAY, APRIL 14

 Officers responded to a call about a student that walked off from school and was refusing to return. Officers made contact with the student who was released to a parent.

 Officers assisted Reed City Fire Department in regard to an illegal burn.

 Officers issued an abatement notice for a broken down vehicle stored in front of a property.

SATURDAY, APRIL 15

 Officers issued three trash abatements to residences for being in violation of the city trash ordinance.

 Officers issued an abatement notice for a broken down vehicle being stored in front of a property.

 Officers picked up a 31-year-old man from a neighboring county on an outstanding contempt of court warrant.

SUNDAY, APRIL 16

 Officers responded to an alarm at a local establishment. After securing the building, deputies determined it was a false alarm.

 Officers assisted a corrections officer with an inmate that was being problematic.
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WASHINGTON (AP)  The U.S. Supreme Court says New Jersey can withdraw from a commission created decades ago with New York to combat the mobs influence at their joint port.

The high court ruled unanimously Tuesday that the Garden State doesnt need New Yorks consent to withdraw from the Waterfront Commission of New York Harbor. The commission was created in 1953 when organized crime had infiltrated the port and was demanding payments from workers and shippers through extortion and violence.

New Jersey lawmakers have said that changes in the industry, including the development of container shipping, have lessened the influence of organized crime at the port and reduced the need for the commission. The state says the commission has become an impediment to economic growth.

"We hold that New Jersey may unilaterally withdraw from the Waterfront Commission Compact notwithstanding New Yorks opposition," Justice Brett Kavanaugh wrote for the court.

The two-member commission  with one commissioner from each state  oversees licensing and inspections at the Port of New York and New Jersey and has its own police force. It employs about 70 people.

The commissions formation followed by several decades the creation of the vastly bigger Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which oversees transportation infrastructure in the region.

In 2018, then-New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, a Republican, signed legislation withdrawing his state from the Waterfront Commission Compact. New York took the issue to the Supreme Court, which handles disputes between states.

The language of the compact creating the commission does not specifically address whether either state can decide on its own to withdraw. Kavanaugh wrote for the court that under the default contract-law rule at the time of the Compact's 1953 formation, as well as today, a contract like this one can be terminated at the will of either party.

Today, the majority of the ports business goes through its New Jersey side. That's a change from when the commission was created and about 70% of the ports business came through the New York side of the port. Now, in the era of container shipping, about 80% of cargo goes through New Jersey.

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy said he was thrilled with the ruling, adding in a statement that the New Jersey state police are more than capable of taking on the Commissions law enforcement and regulatory responsibilities.

New York's governor, Kathy Hochul, and attorney general, Letitia James, expressed disappointment in the court's decision, calling the Waterfront Commission a vital law enforcement agency.

We will continue to do everything in our power to combat corruption and crime, protect the health of our economy, and ensure the safety of New Yorkers, the Democrats said in a joint statement.

___

Follow the APs coverage of the U.S. Supreme Court at https://apnews.com/hub/us-supreme-court
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NANGAN, Taiwan (AP)  In the past month, bed and breakfast owner Chen Yu-lin had to tell his guests he couldn't provide them with the internet.

Others living on Matsu, one of Taiwans outlying islands closer to neighboring China, had to struggle with paying electricity bills, making a doctor's appointment or receiving a package.

For connecting to the outside world, Matsu's 14,000 residents rely on two submarine internet cables leading to Taiwan's main island. The National Communications Commission, citing the islands telecom service, blamed two Chinese ships for cutting the cables. It said a Chinese fishing vessel is suspected of severing the first cable some 50 kilometers (31 miles) out at sea. Six days later, on Feb. 8, a Chinese cargo ship cut the second, NCC said.

Taiwan's government stopped short of calling it a deliberate act on the part of Beijing, and there was no direct evidence to show the Chinese ships were responsible.

The islanders in the meantime were forced to hook up to a limited internet via microwave radio transmission, a more mature technology, as backup. It means one could wait hours to send a text. Calls would drop, and videos were unwatchable.

A lot of tourists would cancel their booking because theres no internet. Nowadays, the internet plays a very large role in peoples lives, said Chen, who lives in Beigan, one of Matsus main residential islands.

Apart from disrupting lives, the loss of the internet cables, seemingly innocuous, has huge implications for national security.

As the full-scale invasion of Ukraine has shown, Russia has made taking out internet infrastructure one of the key parts of its strategy. Some experts suspect China may have cut the cables deliberately as part of its harassment of the self-ruled island it considers part of its territory, to be reunited by force if necessary.

China regularly sends warplanes and navy ships toward Taiwan as part of tactics to intimidate the islands democratic government. Concerns about China's invasion, and Taiwan's preparedness to withstand it, have increased since the war in Ukraine.

The cables had been cut a total of 27 times in the past five years, but it was unclear which country the vessels hailed from, based on data from Chunghwa Telecom.

Taiwan's coast guard gave chase to the fishing vessel that cut the first cable on Feb. 2, but it went back to Chinese waters, according to an official who was briefed on the incident and was not authorized to discuss the matter publicly. Authorities found two Chinese ships in the area where the cables were cut, based on automated identification system data, similar to GPS, which shows a vessels location.

We cant rule out that China destroyed these on purpose, said Su Tzu-yun, a defense expert at the government think tank, Institute for National Defense and Security Research, citing a research that only China and Russia had the technical capabilities to do this. Taiwan needs to invest more resources in repairing and protecting the cables.

Internet cables, which can be anywhere between 20 millimeters to 30 millimeters (0.79 inches to 1.18 inches) wide, are encased in steel armor in shallow waters where theyre more likely to run into ships. Despite the protection, cables can get cut quite easily by ships and their anchors, or fishing boats using steel nets.

Even so, this level of breakage is highly unusual for a cable, even in the shallow waters of the Taiwan Strait," said Geoff Huston, chief scientist at Asia Pacific Network Information Centre, a non-profit that manages and distributes Internet resources like IP addresses for the region.

Without a stable internet, coffee shop owner Chiu Sih-chi said seeing the doctor for his toddler son's cold became a hassle because first they had to visit the hospital to just get an appointment.

A breakfast shop owner said she lost thousands of dollars in the past few weeks because she usually takes online orders. Customers would come to her stall expecting the food to be ready when she hadn't even seen their messages.

Faced with unusual difficulties, Matsu residents came up with all sorts of ways to organize their lives.

One couple planned to deal with the coming peak season by having one person stay in Taiwan to access their reservation system and passing the information on to the other via text messages. Wife Lin Hsian-wen extended her vacation in Taiwan during the off-season when she heard the internet back home wasn't working and is returning to Matsu later in the week.

Some enterprising residents went across to the other shore to buy SIM cards from Chinese telecoms, though those only work well in the spots closer to the Chinese coast, which is only 10 kilometers (6.21 miles) away at its closest point.

Others, like the bed and breakfast owner Tsao Li-yu, would go to Chunghwa Telecoms office to use a Wi-Fi hot spot the company had set up for locals to use in the meantime.

I was going to work at (Chunghwa Telecom), Tsao joked.

Chunghwa had set up microwave transmission as backup for the residents. Broadcast from Yangmingshan, a mountain just outside of Taipei, Taiwan's capital, the relay beams the signals some 200 kilometers (124 miles) across to Matsu. Since Sunday, speeds were noticeably faster, residents said.

Wang Chung Ming, the head of Lienchiang County, as the Matsu islands are officially called, said he and the legislator from Matsu went to Taipei shortly after the internet broke down to ask for help, and was told they would get priority in any future internet backup plans.

Taiwan's Ministry of Digital Affairs publicly asked for bids from low-Earth orbit satellite operators to provide the internet in a backup plan, after seeing Russia's cyberattacks in the invasion of Ukraine, the head of the ministry, Audrey Tang, told The Washington Post last fall. The ministry said the project does not fall under the law that requires providers to be at least 51% owned by a domestic shareholder.

A spokesperson for the Digital Ministry directed questions about the progress of backup plans to the National Communications Commission. NCC said it will install a surveillance system for the undersea cables, while relying on microwave transmission as a backup option.

Many Pacific island nations, before they started using internet cables, depended on satellites  and some still do  as backup, said Jonathan Brewer, a telecommunications consultant from New Zealand who works across Asia and the Pacific.

There's also the question of cost. Repairing the cables is expensive, with an early estimate of $30 million New Taiwan Dollars ($1 million) for the work of the ships alone.

The Chinese boats that damaged the cables should be held accountable and pay compensation for the highly expensive repairs, said Wen Lii, the head of the Matsu chapter of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party.

Wang, the head of Lienchiang County, said he had mentioned the cables on a recent visit to China, where he had met an executive from China Mobile. They offered to send technicians to help. But compensation, he said, will require providing hard proof on who did it.

China's Taiwan Affairs Office did not respond to a faxed request for comment.

For now, the only thing residents can do is wait. The earliest cable-laying ships can come is April 20, because there are a limited number of vessels that can do the job.

A month without functional internet has its upsides too. Chen Yu-lin, the bed and breakfast owner, has felt more at peace.

It was hard in the first week, but Chen quickly got used to it. From a life perspective, I think its much more comfortable because you get fewer calls, he said, adding he was spending more time with his son, who usually is playing games online.

At a web cafe where off-duty soldiers were playing offline games, the effect was the same.

Our relationships have become a bit closer," said one soldier who only gave his first name, Samuel. Because normally when theres internet, everyone keeps to themselves, and now were more connected."

___

Associated Press video journalist Taijing Wu in Taipei, Taiwan, contributed to this report.

___

This story has been corrected to show that the backup satellite plan does not fall under the law that requires providers to be at least 51% owned by a domestic shareholder.

___

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TEHRAN, Iran (AP)  Iran's president Tuesday reiterated threats against Israel while marking the country's annual Army Day, though he stayed away from criticizing Saudi Arabia as Tehran seeks a detente with the kingdom.

The comments by Ebrahim Raisi came as fighter jets and helicopters flew overhead in Tehran, and as Iranian submarines sailed across its waters during a ceremony carried live by state television.

The day celebrates Iran's regular military, not its paramilitary Revolutionary Guard, whose expeditionary forces operate across the wider Mideast and aid Iranian-allied militia groups like Lebanon's Hezbollah. The Guard also routinely has tense encounters with the U.S. Navy.

Speaking at the ceremony, Raisi threatened Israel, which is suspected of carrying out a series of attacks targeting Iran since the collapse of its nuclear deal with world powers.

Enemies, particularly the Zionist regime, has receive the message that any tiny action against (our) country will prompt a harsh answer from the armed forces, which will accompany the destruction of Haifa and Tel Aviv," Raisi said.

Raisi also reiterated a demand for the U.S. to leave the Mideast. American policy since the Carter administration has viewed protected the Persian Gulf region as crucial to securing global energy supplies. A fifth of the world's supply of oil passes through the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow mouth of the Persian Gulf.

While not specifically naming Saudi Arabia, Raisi did offer an olive branch in his remarks.

The hand of our armed forces warmly shakes the hand of the regional nations that intend to create security in the region, the president said.

In March, Iran and Saudi Arabia agreed to reestablish diplomatic relations and reopen embassies after seven years of tensions, a diplomatic agreement reached in China. In the time since, Saudi Arabia also has been involved in a prisoner swap with Yemen's Iranian-backed Houthi rebels, with hopes such a deal could see an end to that country's yearslong proxy war.
MEXICO CITY (AP)  The Mexican Navy said Monday it is using ships and a plane to search for three Americans who went missing along with their sailboat off Mexicos northern Pacific coast.

The Navy said it is using four patrol boats and a twin-engine prop airplane to search the area, but apparently no sign of the missing people has turned up yet.
An argument over a roulette wheel and an outstanding arrest warrant likely played a role in the death of Hartford resident William Tisdol who was shot by Massachusetts police at the MGM Springfield casino in February, the district attorney's investigation report shows.

Within minutes of arriving at the casino at 1:56 a.m. on Feb. 25, Tisdol was engaged in an argument with another patron over a roulette wheel, according to a 108-page report issued by Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni.

About an hour later, Tisdol was gravely wounded while running from Massachusetts State Police and a Springfield officer after he fired five shots in their direction, the report said.

Unbeknownst to the officers, Tisdol had an outstanding arrest warrant on firearm charges out of New York, which may have explained his behavior, Gulluni said in the report.

"While this detail was unknown to the troopers at the time of the shooting, it may explain why Mr. Tisdol made such extraordinary and violent attempts to avoid being identified and apprehended by law enforcement," Gulluni said.

Gulluni determined that Massachusetts State Police Trooper Gregory Santos was justified in firing the shot that led to Tisdol's death since the Hartford man fired first at police who had followed from the casino for several blocks believing he was carrying a gun concealed in his right pocket.

Tisdol's family is angry about his death and the outcome of the report, according to a woman who identified herself Monday as his daughter when she answered a call to the mother of his eight children.

"They were hunting him down like an animal," said the woman, who didn't want to give her name, but said the family is considering a lawsuit against police and the casino. "I am so hurt, I am so bothered, they always manage to cover their tracks."

Tisdol, who has a previous arrest record, including a federal drug conviction, became an advocate for greater police transparency and accountability after his 15-year-old son Caleb was shot by New Britain police in 2017. Caleb Tisdol is now serving a six-year prison sentence on several robbery charges for crimes committed in 2017 and in 2021 while he was out on bond awaiting a resolution of the earlier charges, judicial records show.

The 15-year-old was a passenger in a vehicle that New Britain police believed was connected with a series of violent carjackings when he was shot even as he had his hands up when officers approached, the investigation found.

The driver of the car, Zoe Dowdell, 20, was killed by police gunfire, as he was attempting to flee. A state's attorney investigating the shootings said the officers were justified in using deadly force since Dowdell almost ran them over while trying to escape, the investigation report concluded. But New Britain changed some policies after the incident that required city officers to get better training in stopping suspect vehicles.

William Tisdol had been at the MGM casino earlier in the evening, but had driven back to Connecticut to bring a friend home, Gulluni's report said.

Within minutes of arriving back at the casino, another patron had asked him to sit out a roulette game, Gulluni determined. Tisdol walked off, made a phone call and then returned to play, but was again rebuffed by the other patron, Gulluni's report said. An argument ensued between the two men that drew the attention of MGM security with the other patron talking to the special Gaming Enforcement Unit, which included Santos, Massachusetts State Police Trooper Thomas Cusack and Springfield police officer Matthew Truex.

The patron told the officers that Tisdol threatened to shoot him with a gun he was carrying, the report said. But the man said Tisdol didn't display a weapon during the exchange, the report shows.

As a security officer heard Tisdol's version of events, he tried to get the Hartford man to sign a statement as a stall tactic until the GEU could arrive, Gulluni said in the report. Tisdol declined to provide a written statement and ran out of the casino lobby onto Main Street when he saw Santos, Cusack and Truex coming, the report said.

The three officers followed him for about two minutes on Springfield streets before they stepped up the pace and began telling him to stop and get his hand out of his right pocket, body camera video shows. Tisdol kept his hand in his right pocket for much of the foot chase, at one point he was on he was on the phone asking the friend he had driven home to pick him up, the report said.

During the chase, Truex tackled Tisdol, but was unable to apprehend him, the district attorney's office said.

Cusack then warned that he was prepared to deploy his stun gun, Gulluni said in the report. Turning toward the trooper, firearm in hand, Tisdol fired several shots directly at Cusack, the district attorney's office said. Cusack and Santos then returned fire, the report said.

Santos fired several shots, including the one that struck Tisdol in the collar bone and traveled to his lung, leading to his death, Gulluni's report said.

He was found lying face up in the bushes, the officers said. When they told him to put his hands up, he said, "I'm dead," the body camera footage shows. He had tossed the gun, a 9 mm Taurus on the street, according to the report. He was pronounced dead at 3:05 a.m., a little more than an hour after he had arrived back at the casino, the report said.

Tisdol had stopped at his mother's Vernon home before going to the MGM, she said.

"We were goofing off talking and laughing," his mother Gloria Carter-Vaught told Hearst Connecticut Media Group in February after the fatal shooting. He had rented a car to come see her and later drive with friends to Springfield.

He had been saving his money to buy his own car, according to Carter-Vaught, who has not been able to be reached for comment since the district attorney's report was released last week.

Tisdol had struggled to stay out of trouble and was once sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for selling crack cocaine, his mother said in February. He had been selling drugs to support his family even as he held a job, she said.

"The only problem I had with him was that I'd tell him I didn't raise you to keep getting arrested," she said. "I said you have to stop it, you have children. That's what he was trying to do."

In the days after the shooting she wept openly when she recalled her 6-year-old great-grandson asking why his grandfather died.

"He said to me, 'Gigi, why would my grandfather leave me like that? He was my best friend,'" she said. "I told him that he didn't leave you on purpose."
A former press secretary has filed a lawsuit alleging she was subject to discrimination and harassment while working for the state House Republican office, according to court documents.

The plaintiff, who filed the lawsuit in Hartford on March 17, claimed she suffered retaliation and a hostile work environment after filing a complaint about an incident concerning her supervisor, Greg MacKinnon, the documents show.

As a result of the discrimination, the lawsuit said, the plaintiff has been and will be deprived in the future of substantial employment wages and earnings, as well as health and medical insurance benefits, retirement and pension benefits, vacation pay, sick pay and other benefits. The lawsuit also stated that the plaintiff has and will continue to suffer from emotional and psychological pain and suffering, mental anguish, humiliation, embarrassment and low self-esteem because of the discrimination.

MacKinnon could not be reached for comment and the Connecticut General Assembly House Republican Office declined to comment about the lawsuit.

As long as this is a pending matter, we will decline to comment, said Pat ONeil, communications director for the House Republicans.

The plaintiff's lawyer, Lorenzo J. Cicchiello, said the case is in its "very early stages." Since she left the House Republican office, the plaintiff has sought mental health treatment, he added.

According to the complaint, the woman was hired as a communication specialist in 2014 and later promoted to press secretary in 2021.

On June 10, 2021, MacKinnon verbally and aggressively attacked the woman in front of co-workers, legislators and other staff members, the lawsuit stated.

Im your (expletive) boss, MacKinnon allegedly yelled at the woman, according to the lawsuit. Come at me!

MacKinnon then approached the plaintiff in an aggressive manner, but was blocked by another female employee, the lawsuit said.

The next day, the woman reported the incident to the House Republican Chief of Staff Jen Skehan, who said she would take immediate action, according to the lawsuit.

The plaintiff later learned Skehan waited several days to talk to MacKinnon about the matter, the lawsuit stated.

Skehan, who could not be reached for comment, scheduled a meeting with the plaintiff and MacKinnon, the lawsuit stated. Skehan quickly made it clear she was on the side of (MacKinnon) as she threatened the plaintiffs job, accused the plaintiff of not being innocent in the matter and otherwise engaged in classic victim-blaming behavior, according to the lawsuit.

The offices Human Resources Department then permitted Skehan to investigate the complaint, but the probe predictably omitted information about the incident, the lawsuit said.

After the plaintiff filed a complaint with the office, the lawsuit stated her job was threatened while her complaints were minimized and disregarded.

Skehan also attempted to shame and bully" the plaintiff and falsely accused her of missing several meetings, the lawsuit stated.

In February 2022, the plaintiff told Skehan she was not comfortable with MacKinnon being her direct supervisor, the lawsuit stated. Skehan abruptly ended the meeting and wanted the plaintiff out of her office, according to the lawsuit.

Skehan has since continued to target (the plaintiff) and engaged in an effort to find shortcomings in (her) work, the lawsuit said.

The plaintiff said in the lawsuit that she suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder, which caused her to have a negative reaction around MacKinnon after the incident. The lawsuit claims Skehan treated the plaintiffs disability with contempt.

The plaintiff brought her concerns to Human Resources, but was told her concerns did not reach the level of seriousness to take action and that HR could do nothing," the lawsuit stated.

Later that month, the plaintiff requested leave under the Family Medical Leave Act due to worsening health issues caused by stress on the job," the lawsuit stated.

While on leave, the defendant repeatedly harassed the plaintiff about medical documentation and when she would return to work, even though the documentation she provided stated a return-to-work date, the lawsuit stated.

That summer, the plaintiff was constructively discharged, or resigned, from her job because no assurances were made that plaintiff would be free from retaliation and work hostility, the lawsuit stated.
NEW LONDON  The cause of death of a 17-year-old Groton girl is pending further investigation, the state Office of the Chief Medical Examiner said Tuesday.

DNazia Uzzle, who also went by Nay, was found unresponsive at a New London home just before 3:10 a.m. Saturday. She was taken to the hospital, where she later died, according to New London Police Capt. Matthew Galante.

Two New London residents, a 40-year-old woman and a 19-year-old man, were also transported to the hospital for stab wounds, but their injuries were not life-threatening, Galante said in a news release Monday.

Uzzle was a senior at New London High School. She was part of the districts Arts Magnet Pathway, the district said in a letter to the community on Monday.

New London High School Principal Bryan Mahon said there has been an outpouring of support for Uzzles family, a testimony to the kind of person Nay was.

The loss of a students life is never easy. Nay will be remembered as a student excited about the future and readying herself for graduation before

her life was tragically cut short, Mahon said in a statement. We will continue to provide support to the family, students and staff.

New London Public Schools Superintendent Cynthia Ritchie extended her condolences Monday to Uzzles family, friends and all throughout the region who are impacted by this incredibly sad loss.

DNazia influenced the lives of many, Ritchie continued. She will forever be a beloved part of the Whaler school community and will be deeply missed.

In a letter to the school community Saturday, Ritchie said the district deployed crisis intervention teams to support students, family and school personnel while they grieve.

Galante noted Monday that the investigation is still active and ongoing.
Tomahawk steaks, with their jutting Neanderthal-scale bone handles, often provoke vicarious carnivore noises as servers maneuver them through crowded table airspace as carefully as a docking supertanker.

Drawing oohs and aahs with showpieces is expected, for those gaudy prices. When a dish under $10 makes you say holy cow, thats another thrill level altogether.

Unless youre fortunate enough to not count dollars dining out, that T-boneasaurus Rex is a once-a-year treat.

What sub-$10 delights can offer is to make you happy to be alive, on the regular.

Marble + Rye

112 Genesee St.; 716-853-1390; marbleandrye.net.

During happy hour 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, bar manager Megan Lee deals out one of the citys best cocktail lineups. Backing it up is one of the most outsized deals in Buffalo noshing: $3 helpings of fried fingerling potatoes with chimichurri and creme fraiche, pakora-style vegetable fritters, or Sichuan-inspired cucumber salad with cabbage, broad beans, chili oil, peanuts and cilantro.

. . .

Fresh Catch Poke Downtown

305 Franklin St.; 716-697-7653; freshcatchpoke.co.

The downtown store has a bar serving full liquor. It also has a $2 oyster happy hour that runs 4 to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday. The combination of bivalves and bourbon that gets even more attractive 3 to 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, when its $1.50 a throw.

. . .

Lucky Day Whiskey Bar

320 Pearl St.; 716-322-0547; luckydaywhiskeybar.com.

Hiding amid the hubbub of seven-day 4 to 6 p.m. happy hour is one of Buffalo's signal cheeseburger values of the moment. A patty of beef and bacon, lettuce, tomato, onion, with American cheese is $7. For now.

. . .

Cafe Bar Moriarty

1652 Elmwood Ave.; 716-239-8465; moriartymeats.com.

The European influence on the cafe next to Buffalo's bespoke butcher shop goes deeper than exploration of Spanish, Portuguese and related dishes. It means Moriarty offers little plates under the Basque term pinxtos, the Basque term ($10 to $22), and tapas of a bite or two ($2.50), including tastes of arctic char rillette or pate de campagne, a pork-centric terrine.

. . .

Family Thai

863 Tonawanda St.; 716-783-9285; familythai-restaurant.com.

150 Babcock St.; 716-322-1102.

Opening first in Riverside, then South Buffalo, Family Thai is an excellent place to get familiar with the Burmese skill with salads, called thoats. Tea leaf salad, (lahpet thoat) is the must-try vegan crunch sensation with fermented tea leaves, tomato, shredded cabbage, peanuts, sesame seeds, garlic oil and lime. Ginn thoat swaps out tea leaves for sliced pickled ginger. Other versions center crispy tofu, or pork belly. Theyre $8.99.

. . .

Home Taste

3106 Delaware Ave.; 716-322-0088; hometaste88.com.

Even with housemade wrappers, the best-in-show dumplings at this Kenmore pilgrimage site bring a dozen stuffed with pork and napa cabbage or celery, steamed ($9) or fried ($9.50). Vegan salads of shredded potato in vinegar and chili oil, and celery and tofu skin ($8.50), also rate.

. . .

Waxlight Bar a Vin

27 Chandler St.; waxlightbaravin.com.

The most relentlessly creative restaurant Ive ever encountered was recently honored with a James Beard nomination for its wine and spirits program. It also has a Snacks menu from $1.50 to $10 with 10 mini-adventures. Ask for expert advice on what to pair with roast chicken potato chips ($5), green curry pickled mussels ($6), or pork coppa with horseradish cream ($8).
The Air Force says it is launching an investigation into the Massachusetts Air National Guard wing where Airman 1st Class Jack Teixeira worked before he was arrested last week following a long-running leak online that disclosed classified information about the war in Ukraine and U.S. relations with allies.

Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall directed the service's inspector general to probe compliance with classified safeguards at the 102nd Intelligence Wing at Otis Air National Guard Base, according to a memo to the force on Tuesday that was shared with Military.com. It also calls for every unit to conduct a stand-down to review their policies.

Jack Douglas Teixeira, 21, was arrested by armed federal authorities on Thursday and is suspected of sharing secret documents he gleaned from his job at the base with a group of friends on the popular video-gaming social messaging platform Discord. The disclosure caused friction with allies such as South Korea and Israel, and was touted by pro-Russian sources online.

Read Next: Another Female Soldier Died at Fort Hood. The Base Said Nothing.

"The Secretary of the Air Force directed the Department of the Air Force inspector general to investigate overall compliance with policy, procedures and standards, including the unit environment and compliance at the 102nd Intelligence Wing related to the release of national security information," Air Force spokeswoman Ann Stefanek told Military.com in an emailed statement.

The Department of the Air Force's review is in addition to the one the Pentagon announced following Teixeira's arrest. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin ordered a 45-day review of how access to classified information is handled across the department, and he issued a memo on Monday warning the military to follow detailed requirements for safeguarding the information, such as locked containers and end-of-day security checks.

The release of the information created a diplomatic headache that required the Pentagon to make days of calls to reassure allies. It also exposed a more candid U.S. assessment of Ukraine's war effort, as well as Russian losses.

"Some people need to be fired over this," Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., told ABC News on Sunday.

The dozens of documents -- the Pentagon has still not determined how many leaked online -- appear to have originated from the 102nd Intelligence Wing, where Teixeira was stationed.

The wing's mission is to "provide worldwide precision intelligence" mainly "for expeditionary combat support and homeland security." It is more than 100 years old and started as the 101st Observation Squadron of the Massachusetts National Guard in 1921, according to its website.

The memo detailing the Air Force's independent investigation was released to service members prior to Kendall, Air Force Chief of Staff Charles "CQ" Brown and Chief of Space Operations Chance Saltzman's appearance before a Senate appropriations defense subcommittee hearing on Monday morning.

Kendall's memo released to the force on Monday said units must complete their stand-down within 30 days.

During the hearing on Capitol Hill, several Senate appropriators expressed deep concerns over the leak.

"This is very disturbing," Sen. Jon Tester, a Montana Democrat and chair of the Defense subcommittee, said. "The fact that it happened is bad enough, and we just got to make sure it doesn't happen again."

Sen. Susan Collins, a Maine Republican and ranking member of the subcommittee, pressed Kendall on whether the service is still operating under a "need-to-know" principle that only allows personnel access to classified information when it is critical to their job function.

She also pointed out that Teixeira allegedly had access to documents that "had absolutely nothing to do with his job."

Kendall admitted that Air Force policies need to be reviewed.

"We need to enforce it much more rigorously than it appears to have been in this case," Kendall told Collins. "There is a full-court press going on about this. We're all disturbed about it, and we're working very, very hard to get to the bottom of it."

Teixeira was hit with federal charges last week, accused of unauthorized retention, removal and transmission of national defense information and classified documents.

He not only had a top-secret security clearance but also sensitive compartmented access, a more restrictive designation for some of the government's most closely guarded secrets, since 2021, according to an affidavit from the Justice Department.

Federal documents allege that Teixeira began posting the classified information as paragraphs of text starting in December.

By January, federal authorities claim he started posting pictures of the intelligence and secret information, because he was worried he would be discovered making transcripts of the documents at his job. They allege he began taking the documents to his home where he photographed them.

Leaked information included photos of numerous classified defense documents pertaining to operations in the Ukraine war, as well as U.S. surveillance efforts around the world, federal officials claim.

As federal investigators closed in on Teixeira, he reportedly called members of the online Discord chat group to tell them he never expected this situation to happen, according to The New York Times. He reportedly claimed the documents were not meant to be widely distributed but only shared with a close-knit group of friends in the private chat.

"Guys, it's been good -- I love you all," Teixeira said, one listener recounted to The New York Times. "I never wanted it to get like this. I prayed to God that this would never happen. And I prayed and prayed and prayed. Only God can decide what happens from now on."

Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, R-West Virginia, decried the flippancy with which Teixeira allegedly treated the documents.

"It's almost like it was a game, you're in this chat room, which was supposedly with small amounts of people. And, you know, all, this kind of chatter is not a game," Capito said. "You're endangering lives. You're endangering, you know, freedoms, just eroding trust."

-- Thomas Novelly can be reached at thomas.novelly@military.com. Follow him on Twitter @TomNovelly.

Related: Federal Charges Against Air National Guardsman Allege He Spent Months Leaking Highly Sensitive Intelligence
The Army is investigating a crash in Germany that injured seven soldiers Monday after two military vehicles collided on a highway.

The commander of the unit, the 10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command, said that none of the injuries were life-threatening. The conditions of the soldiers are unknown, though one was airlifted while the other six were transported by ambulance to local hospitals.

While the Army investigation is ongoing -- in conjunction with German officials -- an early hypothesis from the service suggests that the two military vehicles were avoiding a civilian semi-truck traveling in the same section of the A6 autobahn outside of Ursensollen, Germany, and then collided with each other.

Read Next: Another Female Soldier Died at Fort Hood. The Base Said Nothing.

The two military vehicles involved were a Mine Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicle, or MRAP, and a Stryker equipped with an air defense system, also known as a Mobile Short Range Air Defense Stryker, according to Col. Martin L. O'Donnell, a spokesperson for U.S. Army Europe and Africa.

"We think that a local national semi-truck sort of did an abrupt merge which then caused the vehicles to either break or take evasive action and the military vehicles collided with one another," O'Donnell told Military.com Tuesday. "There were no host nation vehicles or anything like that damaged in this incident."

The vehicles "were involved in an accident [yesterday] while convoying from Shipton Kaserne, a small U.S. Army post outside of Ansbach, Germany, to Grafenwoehr Training Area in Grafenwoehr, Germany," O'Donnell said.

The M-SHORAD, as the air defense vehicle is called, is a relatively new variant of the Stryker, and 5th Battalion, 4th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, a subordinate of the 10th AAMDC was the first to test and field it in 2021, according to O'Donnell.

Vehicle accidents, including those stateside, are a top fatality risk for soldiers. Last year, Military.com reported that Army investigations had found fatalities often occurred when soldiers were not wearing seat belts or other restraints, and some crashes were caused by sleep deprivation and lack of training.

O'Donnell said that "several" of the troops taken to local hospitals have been cleared and released, but out of an abundance of caution, others are remaining under observation and will be released soon.

"We at 10th AAMDC would like to thank all the first responders for reacting quickly and saving the lives of our soldiers," Brig. Gen. Maurice Barnett, commander of 10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command, said in a statement. "Right now our focus is on the wellbeing of our Soldiers and the notification of their families. We are making sure that they have everything they need."

-- Drew F. Lawrence can be reached at drew.lawrence@military.com. Follow him on Twitter @df_lawrence.

Related: Soldiers Keep Dying in Vehicle Accidents. The Army Blames Not Wearing Seat Belts and Complacency.
The Army and a private housing company have made some improvements in the year since the release of a scathing Senate investigation into unsafe living conditions at Fort Gordon, Georgia, but military families are still struggling to get mold and other hazards fixed, according to a follow-up report released Tuesday.

In connection with the latest report's release, Sen. Jon Ossoff, D-Ga., also held a roundtable with former and current Fort Gordon residents where they described laboring to get Balfour Beatty Communities to respond to filthy living conditions, including rampant mold and leaking sewage.

"We can't live in this house with poop falling from the ceiling," Joy Viera, an Army spouse who had a sewage backflow in a bathroom that leaked into the kitchen a day after she and her family moved into a home at Fort Gordon, said at the roundtable.

Read Next: Another Female Soldier Died at Fort Hood. The Base Said Nothing.

Last year, the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations, which at the time was led by Ossoff, released its bipartisan investigation that depicted Balfour Beatty ignoring residents' concerns about mold, asbestos and other dangerous living conditions.

Balfour Beatty provides housing to 150,000 military residents in 26 states, but the report focused largely on Fort Gordon in Ossoff's home state.

The issues detailed in the report came after Balfour Beatty in December 2021 pleaded guilty to fraud tied to conditions in military housing from 2013 to 2019. As part of the plea, the company agreed to pay $65 million in fines and restitution.

Balfour Beatty representatives were invited to attend Tuesday's roundtable, but declined, Ossoff said.

A spokesperson for the company did not respond to a request for comment from Military.com on Tuesday by the publication's deadline.

After the initial Senate report, the Army announced it was launching its own probe into housing conditions at Fort Gordon.

The Army's investigation found "persistent shortcomings" in Balfour Beatty's management, including that mold remediation guidelines weren't consistently followed, that data wasn't being use to plan for future maintenance and that the company did not hire skilled trade workers, according to a summary in the report Ossoff released Tuesday.

In July, Army officials also notified Balfour Beatty it was out of compliance with its contractual obligations to the Army to meet "very basic" standards of "safety and inhabitability" and demanded the company craft a quality assurance and control plan, Rachel Jacobson, assistant secretary of the Army for installations, energy and environment, said at Tuesday's roundtable.

Jacobson also urged Congress to approve $50 million included in the fiscal 2024 budget request to build up to 100 new homes at Fort Gordon. She stressed the money would not go to Balfour Beatty and that new housing would have a "major impact" on the quality of life at the base.

"Our families and our soldiers truly deserve quality housing," added Lt. Gen. Kevin Vereen, Army's deputy chief of staff for installations. "It is our job to uphold the obligation to our Army families that we will have quality housing wherever they reside."

Since last year's Senate investigation, Balfour Beatty has increased the number of maintenance staff at Fort Gordon and the number of call center staff available to respond to maintenance requests, expanded training and education for employees, and implemented a new quality assurance plan for gas and venting work orders, according to Tuesday's report.

The latest report also commended the Army for doing unit-by-unit inspections of Fort Gordon housing that started last week, requiring more comprehensive quality assurance plans and "more vigorously enforcing" the terms of its lease agreement with Balfour Beatty.

But the report also said Balfour Beatty and the Army both need to do more to plan for long-term viability of its housing, including using data to better predict future maintenance needs. Balfour Beatty also needs to do more to ensure the technical quality of maintenance work and consistently identify and remediate mold, the report added.

"I heard from some of the enlisted personnel that I met with last week that for work orders that touch on health, life or safety, they have seen some prompter response times," Ossoff said. "But we also found severe ongoing issues with the quality of the workmanship."

Army spouses who spoke at Tuesday's roundtable also said they continue to struggle to get Balfour Beatty to respond to their urgent maintenance requests and adequately repair their homes.

Erin Greer, who has lived in what she described as "inexcusable" conditions at Fort Gordon housing with her Army husband for six years, said she and her husband were forced to sleep in their car and on their porch for two weeks last year after an independent mold inspector they hired certified the home was "unfit for human occupancy." Balfour wouldn't pay for a hotel until it conducted its own inspection, she said.

That came after years of Balfour Beatty only doing cosmetic repairs when she reported mold, she said. After the independent inspection, Balfour eventually conducted its own mold inspection and assured Greer and her husband repairs were made days later, but the couple found mold when they moved back in.

"There was black mold on the carpet. To this day, that mold is still on that carpet," Greer said.

Viera, the spouse whose home had a sewage leak, said she heard a supervisor tell a maintenance worker that the plumbing problems were a "known issue" before her family moved in.

When her family was placed in a different home after living in a hotel for a month, Viera quickly discovered mold, along with trash, bugs and other signs the house wasn't cleaned before they moved in. The family -- which includes Viera, her husband, two children and two dogs -- then moved off base because they did not trust Balfour Beatty to rid the home of mold, she said.

"We spent thousands of dollars between hotel stays and finding a short-term apartment rental off post after searching for weeks," she said. "Balfour Beatty's incompetence made a difficult thing -- moving across the country in the middle of a school year for a very short-term tour -- almost impossible."

-- Rebecca Kheel can be reached at rebecca.kheel@military.com. Follow her on Twitter @reporterkheel.

Related: Military Housing Still Unsafe for Families Served by Company That Pleaded Guilty to Fraud, Congressional Investigation Alleges
The commander of the Army's 5th Security Force Assistance Brigade was suspended amid allegations of counterproductive and abusive treatment of his subordinates, according to multiple sources with direct knowledge of the investigation.

Military.com was first to report on the suspension last week, but at the time, it wasn't known that Col. Jonathan Chung was removed from his position due to allegations of poor leadership.

Chung was suspended April 10 after being in command of the 5th SFAB headquartered at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, since July 2021 and was likely in position to be promoted to brigadier general soon.

Read Next: Another Female Soldier Died at Fort Hood. The Base Said Nothing.

"I am not facing allegations regarding any illegal, immoral or unethical matters," Chung wrote in an email, reviewed by Military.com, sent to colleagues that was seeking positive character witness letters for investigators. "I am facing allegations that are centered around perceived counterproductive and toxic leadership issues."

Military.com spoke with 10 soldiers who worked directly with Chung at 5th SFAB and at his previous command with 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division. Most of them painted a picture of an abrasive leadership style from Chung that squashed unit cohesion and demoralized subordinate officers. No soldiers interviewed accused Chung of any criminal issues or sexual misconduct.

"He was the worst leader I've ever had, toxic, selfish and egotistical," one Army officer told Military.com on the condition of anonymity to avoid retaliation. "I was getting screamed at multiple times for reasons I can't understand."

It's unclear what specific instance led to Chung's dismissal. His attorney declined to provide any specifics but said the investigation revolves around accusations of counterproductive leadership.

Soldiers, including other officers who worked below Chung in the chain of command, described Chung as a perfectionist and micromanager who routinely dressed down subordinates in front of others. The public criticism was commonly known in the ranks as "The Chunger Games." He also tasked his formation with listening to his podcast about leadership lessons, sometimes requiring troops to write reports or quizzing about the material.

One commander in 5th SFAB said that Chung has an unfair reputation and that his strict leadership style simply rubs some soldiers the wrong way and that they have never witnessed Chung berating or talking down to subordinates. The commander is a supportive character witness in Chung's investigation and was put in contact with Military.com by Chung's attorney.

In one case, a soldier's chain of command, from squad leader to company commander, were brought into Chung's office to be taken to task about a soldier who was wearing mismatching socks during physical training, according to two soldiers who were at the meeting. Minor infractions, including uniform violations, are often handled by low-level, non-commissioned officers. Another commander told Military.com of an instance in which they were grilled over why a soldier left duty early for a scheduled dental appointment.

Chung has been temporarily assigned to U.S. Army Pacific, an element of the force that oversees logistics for the region. Officers are commonly reassigned to low-key administrative positions during investigations that can take months to complete.

The Security Force Assistance Brigades were stood up by the Army between 2017 and 2020. Soldiers in those regionally aligned brigades sport the brown beret and "Advisor" tab, uniform items the service has implemented to make SFABs stand apart from the rest of the force. The brigades are focused on working with U.S. allies to train their forces, help refine their doctrine or assess their military capabilities. The 5th SFAB focuses on the Pacific and countries including the Philippines, Mongolia and Australia.

-- Steve Beynon can be reached at Steve.Beynon@military.com. Follow him on Twitter @StevenBeynon.

Related: Commander of Army Pacific Training Brigade Suspended
New York state police have released the identity of an Ohio man who was killed Monday as a result of a tractor-trailer rollover accident on the Thruway in Chili in Monroe County.

Troopers identified the man as 75-year-old Robert J. Tincani of East Palestine, Ohio, who was killed after an initial crash that occurred between the Rochester/Corning and LeRoy exits on the Thruway.

According to a preliminary investigation, 22-year-old Emon Siddiki of Buffalo was driving west on I-90 when his 2021 Toyota Rav 4 struck the rear bumper of a Freightliner tractor trailer hauling Amazon products that was operated by Tincani. Immediately following the crash, the Toyota became disabled in the right lane and Siddiki retreated to the field off the north shoulder, troopers said. Tincani then pulled his vehicle onto the north shoulder and exchanged information with Siddiki off the roadway.

A call was placed to 911 to report the crash and Tincani began walking back to his to truck to wait for troopers to arrive. A short time later, a westbound PC Logistics Group tractor trailer, operated by Ivan Solonyshyn, 40, of Brooklyn struck the Toyota. The collision caused the tractor trailer, which was hauling recycled paper, to overturn and strike Tincani as he was walking back to his vehicle.

Troopers said Tincani was fatally injured and pronounced dead on the scene. His body was transported to the Monroe County Medical Examiners Office. No other injuries were reported in the accident.

Both westbound lanes of the Thruway were blocked for several hours while the accident was being investigated.

The investigation is continuing, state police said.
DETROIT  The giant Viking Octantis cruise ship will be joined in the Great Lakes this spring by its identical twin, the Viking Polaris.

The 665-foot Viking Octantis first entered the Great Lakes during the 2022 cruising season, making its first Michigan port of call on May 3, 2022, in Detroit. It was the largest cruise ship even to sail the Great Lakes.

RELATED: A video tour on board the largest cruise ship ever to sail Great Lakes

Its twin, the Viking Polaris, will make its first Michigan port of call on Tuesday, May 30, in Detroit. The stop is part of the eight-day Niagara & Great Lakes cruise, which starts $5,995 per person. The ship is also expected to stop at Alpena and Mackinac Island throughout the 2023 cruising season.

The first Michigan call will come nearly a month after the ship first enters the Great Lakes, stopping first in Toronto, Ontario, on Wednesday, May 3.

RELATED: Its not every day a 665-foot cruise ship docks in Detroit: We went aboard

The Viking ships have four itineraries throughout the Great Lakes with ports of call in Canada and the United States this spring, summer and fall. These ships can accommodate 378 guests in 189 staterooms.

2022 was the first year that Viking Cruises had itineraries on the Great Lakes.

READ MORE:

We didnt find them, they found us: Mackinac Island is most popular Michigan cruise ship port

Cruise ships to return to Great Lakes for record-breaking 2023 season

This U.P. town will welcome cruise ships for the first time
MACOMB COUNTY, MI  A Michigan man is accused of driving more than 100 miles per hour before he crashed into a motorcycle during a road rage incident in Macomb County.

Mark Nichter, 52, of Eastpointe was charged with two counts of assault with intent to murder, two counts of assault with intent to commit great bodily harm and operating a motor vehicle while impaired, third offense.

The incident occurred in Warren on April 15.

According to Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido, Nichter was driving his Dodge Ram southbound Van Dyke Road when he began road raging with two people on a motorcycle.

Nichter allegedly chased the motorcycle by going more than 100 mph before colliding with it. The motorcycle stuck to the pick-up truck after impact and both vehicles stopped.

The two victims on the motorcycle were not injured, prosecutors said.

Thank you to the Warren Police Department for their swift investigation. This incident could have been much worse, Lucido said.

Nichters bond was set at $400K. A probable cause hearing is scheduled for 8:45 a.m. on April 25 and a preliminary exam is scheduled for 8:45 a.m. on May 2.
A would-be thief who shot a man he was trying to rob Tuesday morning is being sought by Cheektowaga police, according to a report posted on the Cheektowaga police Facebook page.

Police said the victim was taken to Erie County Medical Center for treatment of a gunshot wound to his upper chest that was non-life-threatening.

Investigators said the victim was an employee of the Erie County Water Authority performing work at 41 Alpine Place in the Pine Hill neighborhood about 11 a.m. when the robber approached him, knocked him to the ground and demanded his wallet at gunpoint.

According to the report, the victim stood up as if to give the robber his wallet and attempted to run away before he was shot. Police said the robber fled to Genesee Street on foot.

A spokesman for the Erie County Water Authority said Tuesday afternoon that the "ECWA will not be commenting until further details resulting from the Cheektowaga Police Department's investigation are known."

Anyone with information is asked to call Lt. Dan Albrecht at the Cheektowaga Police Investigations Bureau at 716-686-7461 or send an anonymous text to TIP411 (847411) and start the message with CPDNY.
Irene Wright, The Charlotte Observer (TNS)

A Walgreens employee accused of shooting a pregnant woman in Tennessee said he thought she was shoplifting and acted in self-defense, Nashville police said.

The Walgreens team leader, a 21-year-old man, told police that another employee informed him they saw two women stealing items from the shelves in the East Nashville store around 8 p.m on April 12, according to a Metropolitan Nashville Police Department news release on April 13.

The team leader said he saw the women putting items in a store cart and in a large over-the-shoulder purse, police said.

Police said the team leader started recording the women using his cellphone and followed them out into the parking lot after he said they left the store without paying.

He followed the women to their car and saw them putting items into their trunk, according to the news release. Then, the team leader told police one of the women pulled out a can of mace and began spraying him.

The employee told investigators he was in fear and he wasnt sure if the women were armed, so he pulled out a gun and opened fire, hitting one of the women, according to police.

The 34-year-old woman was seven months pregnant, according to Nashville police, and was taken to a hospital by the other woman she was with. The other woman dropped off the pregnant woman and then drove away, police said.

The pregnant woman had multiple gunshot wounds, and doctors had to perform an emergency cesarean section, according to the news release.

The child did not have any gunshot injuries, but the baby and the mother were listed in critical but stable condition, according to police.

The team leader said he acted in self-defense and is cooperating with the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department, according to police. He handed over his gun and cellphone, the news release said.

The safety of our patients, customers and team members is our top priority, and violence of any kind will not be tolerated at our stores. We take this matter seriously and are cooperating with local authorities, Walgreens said in an emailed statement to McClatchy News.

The district attorneys office will determine if charges will be filed against the Walgreens employee once the investigation has finished, according to police.

2023 The Charlotte Observer. Visit charlotteobserver.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
SENEY, MICH. -- After a headline-making breakup last year, the worlds oldest loon couple briefly reconnected on their old stomping grounds in Michigans Upper Peninsula last week  but the reunion didnt last long.

The drama once again played out at Seney National Wildlife Refuge, where the two common loons  a male known as ABJ and a female named Fe  had gained celebrity status by nesting together every spring for 25 years until an upstart male loon caused the superstar pair to split last May.

Many birding fans wondered if ABJ and Fe would rekindle their former connection this year. The pairs most recent interaction suggests their new status might as well be: Its complicated.

According to an update by Damon McCormick, co-director of the nonprofit Common Coast Research & Conservation, ABJ and Fe were spotted together last Wednesday on a small open portion of the refuges still-icy F Pool, their longtime former home. But by the next afternoon, ABJ was gone, replaced by an unbanded male loon that likely was Fes new mate in 2022.

Having missed the fireworks, we dont know if ABJ was defeated in battle with the unbanded male, or if, sensing that a fight would go poorly for him, he instead fled the territory before a skirmish occurred, McCormick wrote in a Facebook post detailing the pairs brief meet-up.

We also dont know how Fe comported herself during the interaction: In such circumstances, a female loon will, in her behavior, sometimes manifest a clear preference for one of her suitors, and sometimes remain functionally neutral, the update continued. We do know, however, that as ABJ managed to take flight from the barely open pool, Fe had the option of following him; she did not.

By Saturday, Fe and her new partner had moved to the adjacent pool where they had raised a chick together last year while ABJ enjoyed a bachelor summer.

At nearly 36 and 37 years old, ABJ and Fe are both the worlds oldest documented common loons as well as the most successful loon parents, with 32 hatched chicks together during a remarkable 25-year partnership. While common loons dont mate for life, researchers have found a strong correlation between offspring productivity and pair bond, meaning that if two loons hatch chicks together one season, theyre more likely to stick together the following year.

After their interaction last week, ABJ has not yet been spotted back at the refuge, though staff hopes he will resurface soon  even if it has to be without his longtime lady.

...it would be extremely unusual in this season for ABJ to challenge the same male by whom he has already been bested; if he is seeking to nest in 2023, it will very likely have to be with a partner other than Fe, McCormick wrote.

Staff is continuing to monitor the refuges loon population, and there will be updates on the Seney National Wildlife Refuges Facebook page in the weeks to come.

RELATED:

How to track hummingbirds, monarch butterflies as they return to Michigan this spring

New 93-acre nature preserve now open for explorers in Northern Michigan

Dont be fooled by this loon look-alike on Michigan lakes
Abdullah the Butcher is scheduled to appear on an AIW Wrestling card in Ohio in May, and if you are wondering why the 81-year-old is still out working, well  the explanation doesnt sound pretty.

Because, Abdullah, whose real name is Larry Shreve, told Click on Detroit that he is broke. How did a guy who debuted in 1958 and wrestled through 2010  many of those years as one of the most popular and violent wrestlers in the business  end up like this?

Well, Shreve told Click on Detroit that one big blow came when he lost a lawsuit for $2.3 million. Shreve blamed his inability to read or write for the loss, saying that he didnt know he was being summoned to court. That, he said, caused a default judgement. According to reports, that lawsuit was filed by Devin Nicholson, who claimed that Shreve gave him Hepatitis C during a match and cost him a contract with the WWE.

More recently, Shreve, who once ran two restaurants  one in Atlanta and one in Japan  called Abdullah the Butchers House of Ribs and Chinese Food, claims he has lost those establishments.

How that happened isnt quite clear in the story, but the legendary wrestler said he has even had to sell his Hall of Fame ring for money.

You got a lot of people who try to take what you worked all your life for, he said. In my opinion, Ive been ripped off so bad its unbelievable, and Im still getting ripped off.

You can check out the entire story about the 2011 WWE Hall of Fame inductee, here.
ANN ARBOR, MI  In the aftermath of Ann Arbor resident Jude Waltons death, city officials are calling for redoubling efforts to combat social harms and continuing her work.

That includes everything from fighting racism to providing housing and resources for those in need, officials said.

That should be and will be the primary result of her death, Mayor Christopher Taylor said Monday night, April 17, after City Council had a moment of silence for the slain community leader, who was found strangled inside her Chapin Street home April 13.

Jude Walton, slain Ann Arbor community leader, remembered for welcoming spirit

It is another instance in which violence has created harm and heartbreak and that is what it wreaks, Taylor said. And that is what I think we as a community need to continue to work to counter, whether through education and services and, broadly speaking, the creation of a culture of kindness and support that condemns violence, that condemns sexual assault, that condemns the harms that they create.

Jude Walton, HR director for Avalon Housing, poses inside the Northern Brewery building, 1327 Jones Drive, in Ann Arbor on June 24, 2019. (Jacob Hamilton | jhamilt3@mlive.com

Taylor called Walton, 51, an extraordinary community member. She was a founding member of the citys Independent Community Police Oversight Commission, serving from 2019 to 2022, and worked for nonprofit affordable housing provider Avalon Housing.

Were heartsick that this terrible thing could happen to someone that we all know and love, Police Oversight Commission Chair Stefani Carter told council.

Council Member Linh Song, D-2nd Ward, said she knew Walton in multiple capacities, including her involvement in a group called Champions for Change, which worked to lay the groundwork for systemic change to disrupt racism.

Champions for Change is a program that recognizes that in vibrant communities all people are welcomed, included, valued and natured, Song said, adding she hopes others will be inspired to commit themselves to the community as Walton did.

Ricky McCain, 54, has been charged with open murder, first-degree home invasion and assault with intent to commit sexual penetration in connection with Waltons death.

He served time in prison for criminal sexual conduct in a 1988 case and also in a 2006 and 2008 case for assault with intent to rob, according to state prison records. He had been discharged in August 2022, according to the records.

Council Member Cynthia Harrison, D-1st Ward, speaks about the legacy of Jude Walton at the Ann Arbor City Council meeting April 17, 2023.Ryan Stanton | The Ann Arbor News

Council Member Cynthia Harrison, D-1st Ward, said its a traumatic time for the community.

Fears could be potentially heightened at the moment and there will be temptation among some to hold up Jude Waltons death as a call to arms for communities to pull back on initiatives such as affordable housing that work to break the cycle of homelessness and poverty, she said.

We have so many stories and data about the positive impacts of having a home on the lives of children and adults, she added. Were not going to let what occurred, as horrific as it was, derail the decades of work that she engaged in.

What happened was a terrible and unimaginable act by one person, Harrison said.

We must not use this individual act to foster hate against multiple groups, people of color, the unhoused, returning citizens, people with a mental illness and those that suffer from a substance use disorder, she said.

The best way for all of us to honor Jude, who was a pillar of our community, is to lift up the cause of affordable housing, which she spent 14 years fighting for, Harrison added.

Stefani Carter, chair of Ann Arbor's Independent Community Police Oversight Commission, speaks about former commissioner Jude Walton at the City Council meeting April 17, 2023.Ryan Stanton | The Ann Arbor News

Walton had a tremendous impact on the police oversight commission, bringing needed wisdom and experience, leading in establishing the commissions budget, developing training requirements for commissioners and hosting meetings and training sessions, Carter said.

Her work will be guiding our work and our mission for a long time to come, she said, adding Waltons kindness was evident to everyone who knew her and will be remembered.

Carter quoted the late poet Ralph Waldo Emerson in saying you cannot do a kindness too soon, for you never know how soon it will be too late. In Waltons honor, Carter suggested everyone commit to being a little kinder to each other every day.

Council Member Erica Briggs, D-5th Ward, said Walton was a resident in her ward and the community is mourning.

It was a horrifying event thats happened and people are heartbroken and traumatized and its going to take us some time to get through this, she said, thanking the Ann Arbor Police Department for its quick response to the incident.

The fact that we have a suspect in custody is a testament to their good work, she said.

Briggs called attention to an annual report provided to council by the police department. It shows arrests climbed 19% from 1,523 in 2021 to 1,808 in 2022, while traffic stops increased 32% from 4,285 to 5,641, along with increases in traffic and parking citations, park patrols and foot patrols.

The detective unit saw case assignments drop from 1,556 to 997, with 62% of cases solved both years.

They have, I think, done us all proud here, Taylor said of the police response to Waltons slaying.

From left, City Clerk Jackie Beaudry, Mayor Christopher Taylor and City Administrator Milton Dohoney at the Ann Arbor City Council meeting April 17, 2023.Ryan Stanton | The Ann Arbor News

We as a community are traumatized, but I think were secure in knowing at the very least that a suspect has been identified, he said, adding the judicial process will run its course.

Council Member Ayesha Ghazi Edwin, D-3rd Ward, shared her colleagues views on continuing Waltons work.

I hope that after this horrible tragedy, we can honor her legacy, she said, adding that means supporting those most marginalized and vulnerable and not leaving them behind.

MORE FROM THE ANN ARBOR NEWS:

Candlelight vigil honors death of Ann Arbor community leader Jude Walton

Records detail slaying of Ann Arbor woman Jude Walton

Ann Arbor may create Bicentennial Park for citys 200th birthday

Saying goodbye to Ann Arbors Marshall Court: Houses to be demolished for new dorm

How will University of Michigan look in 2050? Officials want community feedback
BRIGHTON, MI -- Brightons downtown streetscape project has officially begun now that a roughly three-month long water main replacement project has finished.

The approximately $6.5-million City of Brighton Streetscape Project, guided by the citys Downtown Development Authority, aims to modernize downtown streets, sidewalks and infrastructure, while bringing many enhancements to the city.

Improvements will include larger sidewalks compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act, modernized LED lighting, parking areas for bicycles, improved landscaping and smaller roads that keep on-street parking.

The project is expected to be complete no later than November, DDA Chairman Tim Corrigan said, adding that with a little luck it may end sooner since the project is on target and not experiencing delays of materials.

(This project) keeps our city vibrant and it makes us viable for the future (while) attracting businesses into our community, in addition to residents, he said. Having (downtown) be safe, efficient and aesthetically pleasing is going to benefit every business, restaurant and the community.

Construction has begun for the Brighton streetscape project.

What to expect while navigating construction

The streetscape project is being completed in phases with complete closures impacting Main Street, between Grand River Avenue and First Street, and Grand River Avenue, between St. Paul and North streets.

Phase has begun and is expected to end in July. The closure affects Main Street from Hyne Street to Grand River Avenue. Closure of the Mill Pond park area are also part of this phase.

There are detours at South Third Street and North First Street to help drivers heading east get around the construction. Westbound drivers can use detours at South East Street to North Street.

The next construction phase, expected to be complete in September, will affect Main Street from Hyne to South Second streets.

During the next phase after that, East Main Street will close from Grand River to East Street, and Grand River from St. Paul Street to North Street will see lane closures due to sidewalk replacements. This work is expected to conclude in October.

Temporary walkways are being created for businesses affected by sidewalk construction.

The contractors and the engineers are well aware that access will be needed for these businesses so they plan to put forth temporary pathways when they do tear out the sidewalks into those businesses, Brighton Mayor Kristoffer Tobbe said.

Public parking is available at North Street at West Street and in the citys municipal lot around Brighton City Hall, 200 North First St.

The City of Brighton provided a graphic to show downtown public parking options to choose from.

Some annual events are planning to either relocate or not happen in 2023 due to the project.

Kiwanis Millpond Concerts & Car Show are canceled. A Taste of Brighton also is canceled, but, event organizers are exploring an in-restaurant option with fixed menus to replace it, said Denise Murray, the economic development and marketing specialist working with downtown Brighton.

Brightons Smokin Jazz & Barbeque Blues Festival is moving to Mt. Brighton, 4141 Bauer Road.

The Greater Brighton Area Chamber of Commerce also has created Brightons Yellowstone Country Music Festival, a new event to take the place of Brighton Art & Music Festival.

Related: A Yellowstone themed country music festival is coming to Brighton

The city is providing weekly construction updates on its website.

What is being done to help businesses during this project?

Downtown businesses have shared some concerns about the large construction project.

Read more: Business owners a little concerned with year-long streetscape project in downtown Brighton

Corrigan acknowledged the project will have some challenges, but said the city is working to help promote and drive traffic to downtown as much as possible.

I wouldnt sugarcoat it -- its not an easy thing to go through, he said. Disruption is never simple (but) just know that the contractor and city are going to be working as effectively and as efficiently as possible.

Construction has begun for the Brighton streetscape project.

Murray said she has been working with businesses to create retail excitement by using social media and creating informative brochures. Murray said she has also been hosting merchant meetings for businesses to learn how to cross promote and support one another.

Kathleen London, owner of London Beauty, 424 W. Main St., has noticed downtown businesses working together to create collaborative events.

Is it challenging? Yes. Are we all struggling? Yes. Are people freaked out? Yes. However, if you could see how well people are trying to work together (and) how much people are bringing to the table, thats all we can really do until we get to November, she said.

Renderings of what the Brighton Streetscape Project will look like once completed.

It wont be easy going through this project, London said. but, as small business owners, their job is to pivot and work through challenges together.

Talk and collaborate with your neighbor, she said. If we all hold hands, were stronger and we can lift each other up and help each other and facilitate sending clients between ourselves.

London added she believes the city of Brighton has been able to provide a lot of information thus far to soothe concerns. She said she also notices the citys sincere desire to create a downtown with longevity.

(All the streetscape improvements are) things that, if you ignore them, take a town that is strong and weaken it because you cannot attract the new, she said.

This streetscape project has been in the works since 2018, Corrigan said, adding it is an exciting next step for the city.

Im most excited for what I feel it will do for the community, and its nice to see that everyones efforts and all that we put forth into this (is) coming together to make this happen, he said.

Read more from The Ann Arbor News:

Man arrested in slaying of Ann Arbor community leader Jude Walton

Ann Arbor student says voracious reading paved way to perfect SAT score

Calling all cowgirls: Former Brighton barbecue restaurant is transforming into country bar
SALINE, MI - Saline residents wont be able to shelve their mowers this spring, even as nearby communities encourage unruly lawns for the benefit of bees, butterflies and pollinators.

Saline leaders declined to embrace the No Mow May movement during a City Council meeting on Monday, April 17, while leaving the door open to participation in the global initiative in future years.

I sort of feel like were a little bit too late to the party at this point, said City Council Member Janet Dillon, nodding to the recent string of 80-degree days and mowing already underway in her neighborhood and city parks.

Dillon wouldnt support encouraging residents to grow grass up to a foot tall, she said, as elected leaders in Ann Arbor are doing this year to increase the availability of early season flowers and boost habitat for pollinators.

Read more: No Mow May 2.0. Ann Arbor encourages residents to let lawns grow up to a foot tall

With a part-time code enforcement officer, she worried about getting lawns back under control, and there are downsides to the environmental initiative, she said. To not mow yards, parks, things like that, I think could just be unruly.

Saline rules currently mandate grass be cut before it grows over seven inches, according to the city website.

Other city leaders said they supported sticking with those restrictions this spring, some referencing their own yards.

If I took off April and May, it would be a hayfield by the end of the month, and I dont think thats hyperbolic, said Saline Mayor Brian Marl, adding the unchecked growth does detract from residents quality of life.

Thats not to say support for No Mow May  popularized in the United Kingdom and now sanctioned to varying degrees by Michigan cities like Ann Arbor, Jackson, East Lansing and Royal Oak  wont be on the table next year.

City Council Member Nicole Rice said the initiative is one way humans can have a positive impact on the pollination of native plant species, but she wouldnt support a resolution adopting it without more consideration. One avenue might be for the effort to first go through the citys Environmental Commission, she added.

Read more: Were pushing the limits. These Ann Arborites are doing No Mow May

How municipalities have approached the spring grass-growing bonanza differs considerably, with some restricting it to rear yards and others canceling fees for participating property owners in May but not officially endorsing the initiative, according to a Saline city memo.

If it took the plunge, Saline would have to decide similar questions, including whether it would apply to residential or commercial properties, as well as city parks and assets, City Manager Colleen OToole said.

The city already leaves an area near its wastewater treatment plant unmowed, its small contribution to the initiative, observed Council Member Jim DellOrco. He foresees backlash if the city suspended code enforcement on mowing lawns, he said.

Its just going to be people complaining, and I think we have enough of that now, DellOrco said.

More from The Ann Arbor News:

Physician union accuses University of Michigan of bad faith bargaining in charges

Ann Arbor may create Bicentennial Park for citys 200th birthday

Man, 54, charged with murder in strangulation death of Ann Arbor woman

$390K resurfacing project will bring closures to road south of Ann Arbor
FLINT, MI  Robert Putnam will serve more than two decades in prison for the March 2020 death of his girlfriend, Sidney Szewczyk  nearly one year for every year the 28-year-old Szewczyk was alive.

Putnam, 43, who previously pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in Szewczyks death, appeared before Genesee County Circuit Court Judge Elizabeth A. Kelly Monday, April 17, where he was sentenced to a minimum of 27 years to a maximum of 81 years in prison.

Putnam was given credit for having already served more than 1,100 days in the Genesee County Jail.

Szewczyk was found dead at her home in the Davison Hills Mobile Home Community off East Mt. Morris Road in Richfield Township.

Putnam and Szewczyk were dating and lived together at the mobile home park, police said.

A relative had come over around 1 p.m. March 31 to check on Szewczyk and found her dead inside the home, police previously said.

Putnam was arrested the same day in Kentucky.

Kentucky State Police were notified Putnam was a person of interest or suspect in the case.

Prosecutors would go on to charge Putnam with open murder, first-degree arson, felony murder and domestic violence.

However, Putnam in March pleaded guilty to second-degree murder. The other chares were dismissed at the plea.

Read more at The Flint Journal:

Man suspected of killing woman at Davison-area mobile home park

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Man pleads guilty to murder charge in girlfriends death at Davison-area mobile home park
FLINT, MI -- U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee is recovering from surgery to remove a small cancerous tumor from his tonsil and is expected to be discharged from George Washington University Hospital later this week.

Mitchell Rivard, chief of staff for the Flint Township Democrat, said in a statement on Monday, April 17, that the hospitalization is part of the normal recovery process following such a procedure.

Last month, Kildee disclosed he had been diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma, a serious but curable form of cancer.

The congressman is thankful to have caught his cancer diagnosis early and appreciates the care of his great team of doctors, Rivards statement says. The congressman, his wife, Jennifer, and the Kildee family have been touched by all the kind notes and well wishes since his diagnosis. The congressman thanks his constituents and colleagues in Congress for their continued support.

Kildee will miss votes in the House of Representatives because of his surgery and recovery but will submit written statements for the record to the House clerk for any missed, recorded votes to keep his constituents updated on his positions, Rivard said.

The congressmans office in Flint and Washington, D.C. remain open and staff members are continuing to assist constituents.

Kildee has remained active since announcing his cancer diagnosis on March 31.

He appeared with Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley and others at a news conference to announce the kickoff of a $4-million targeted demolition program in Flint on April 4.

Before his surgery, Kildee said his doctors had advised him he faced a recovery period of a few weeks.

I am going to get through this. Im going to beat cancer, he said then in a statement.

Voters returned Kildee to Congress for a sixth term in the November general election.

Read more at The Flint Journal:

I am going to get through this. U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee diagnosed with cancer

Kildee highlights $4M in new federal funding for Flint area demolitions

Michigan Congressman Dan Kildee says Capitol attack left him with post-traumatic stress
FLINT, MI - U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee has announced new federal funding requests for 15 community projects to be included in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 government spending bills.

The 15 projects Kildee, D-Flint Twp., requested through his Community Project Funding initiative would benefit Genesee, Saginaw, Bay, Tuscola and Midland County residents and create jobs in mid-Michigan.

The federal funding for local initiatives will support blight removal, local law enforcement, clean, safe drinking water initiatives, access to affordable health care, schools and to prevent flooding, according to a Tuesday, April 18, news release.

Each member of Congress, through the Appropriations Committee, can direct federal resources to certain projects with demonstrated community support, commonly referred to as Community Project Funding. Per Committee rules, each Member of Congress can submit up to 15 projects for consideration to be funded within FY 2024 appropriations bills.

From Kildees overall list, here are the proposed Genesee County projects:

$1,250,000 for the city of Flushing which would be used for the improvement of the Flushing Wastewater Treatment Plant to ensure the systems maintain efficient and effective treatment prior to releasing water into the Flint River.

$5,000,000 for the Genesee County Drain Commissioner which would be used to expand drinking water infrastructure in Genesee County, including the Charter Township of Fenton and the city of Burton, to reduce potential exposure to harmful toxins like arsenic and ensure continuous water flow to mitigate bacterial growth in the water supply.

$4,000,000 for Communities First, Inc. in Flint which would be used to renovate the Marian Hall building, converting it to affordable housing, and restore the Masonic Temple building into a mixed-use space for the community.

$3,150,000 for the Office of Genesee County Sheriff which would be used to combat drug and human trafficking in Genesee County and enhance services for children who are victims of crime and abuse.

These community projects will make a real difference in our community by strengthening our infrastructure, creating jobs, supporting public safety and boosting economic development in mid-Michigan, Kildee said in a news release. As a member of Congress, one of my main responsibilities is to deliver federal funds back to mid-Michigan to help our community. It is my hope that both Republicans and Democrats can come together to pass a responsible government spending bill that includes these critical projects. I am committed to working across the aisle to ensure we can get this done.

Read more at The Flint Journal:

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$250K grant to help restore nature on dozens of vacant lots in Flint

Joe Schipani is leaving the Flint Public Art Project, but still has big plans
GENESEE COUNTY, MI -- Working in road construction zones has never been easy but it got worse in 2022 and those on the frontlines are asking drivers to slow down and pay attention as this construction season starts.

Its scary ... in work zones today, said Gerrad Godley, construction manager for the Genesee County Road Commission. Its only getting worse it seems. In my 25 years in construction, I havent seen anything like I saw last year.

Speaking during a news conference on Monday, April 17, Godley said just last year, laborers, contractors and inspectors were threatened with guns, watched drivers ignore signs, and faced wrong-way traffic on jobs around the county.

The last work zone fatality in the county occurred in 2006 when Dennis Bundy of Flushing was killed while working for the Road Commission on a routine engineering operation on M-15 in Atlas Township.

Bundy, 48, was hit by a sport-utility vehicle driven by a man with a revoked license, according to Flint Journal files.

The countys news conference kicked off National Work Zone Awareness Week, an annual event aimed at improving work zone safety.

According to the Michigan State Police, 16 people -- 13 of them drivers -- were killed in construction zones around the state in 2022.

Road commissions do everything we can to train our employees and make sure that work zones are as safe as possible, but in reality, its everyones responsibility to keep work zones safe, said Kylie Dontje, GCRC communications coordinator. Part of our mission at the Road Commission is to keep the roads safe for drivers in Genesee County. Please help us achieve that goal by slowing down and removing distractions the next time you see orange barrels.

Two state representatives at Mondays news conference said that there is too much distracted driving and too little respect for road workers.

State Rep. Mike Mueller, R-Linden, is cosponsoring two bills that would allow MSP and the state Department of Transportation to implement automated speeding cameras in work zones.

A lot of people -- especially on my side -- are worried about Big Brother and this and that, Mueller said. I tell them, its not about Big Brother and government overreach. Its about safety.

State Rep. John Cherry, D-Flint, said he is supporting bills that increase safety in work zones, including legislation that calls for increased use of concrete barriers to protect workers.

Respect the folks who are doing the job, Cherry said. Make sure youre slowing down (and) that youre not using your phone when you go forward through that construction zone.

Read more at The Flint Journal:

Speeding cameras at Michigan work zones? Bills hope to save lives

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Has a free the animals movement taken root in Western New York?

The Niagara County Sheriff's Department issued a public warning to farmers on Tuesday that at least two instances of trespassing have taken place on farmland in Newfane since a social media post encouraged people to attend an animal "right to rescue summit" last weekend in the City of Tonawanda.

"Im not going to put up with it if they think theyre going to come and steal livestock," Niagara County Sheriff Michael J. Filicetti told The Buffalo News. "This stuff definitely gets stranger by the day."

Sheriff's officials posted the alert after the event last Saturday focused on encouraging animal rescue.

"All farmers in the area need to be aware and stay alert of suspicious activity related to this meeting," the public alert said.

The "Open Rescue Experience" event, posted on the WNY Vegans Connections Facebook page, featured a "Right to Rescue Summit."

As part of the event, a "veteran open rescuer" was to discuss the "stages of animal rescue, from researching facilities to winning at trial."

"Whether you want to plan your own high-impact open rescue or simply be a supporter, this workshop will inspire and empower you to make a difference in the lives of animals," the post said.

The morning after the event, two people were seen on a Newfane farm taking pictures and video in a cow barn, the sheriff said.

"When confronted, they got in a car and fled," Filicetti said.

Tracy Murphy, the operator of Asha's Farm Sanctuary in Newfane, was among Saturday's scheduled panelists. She was charged with grand larceny last summer, accused of refusing to return two cows that wandered onto her property from a nearby farm. She declined to comment when reached Tuesday night, because she said she is still under a gag order that prohibits her from speaking publicly about her case, which is still being adjudicated in court.

Murphy's attorney, Wayne Hsiung, who also is an animal rights activist from California, said that he was a facilitator at last Saturday's event, which was a workshop that he has previously presented at law schools.

"This was an event about the right of every citizen in this country to give aid to sick, suffering, abandoned animals," Hsiung said, arguing that the purpose of the event was mischaracterized by the Sheriff's Office.

He said Murphy did not make a presentation at the workshop.

"She did speak about her case prior to the workshop, around noon on Saturday, and she just described how she became an animal rights advocate, why she decided to start a sanctuary and how much she's been traumatized, frankly, by the prosecution that's unfolded over the past year," Hsiung said.

He also said that Facebook posts by Niagara County Sheriff's Office "are both false and defamatory and leading to a torrent of death threats" against Murphy.

"If Niagara County is actually concerned about trespass, and actually concerned about criminal violations, they really should be investigating how their own conduct is encouraging and inciting people to engage in threatening conduct against my client," Hsiung said.

"There are people on Niagara County's own Facebook pages threatening to kill, shoot or hang Tracy," he added.

Hsiung said a hearing scheduled last Thursday in Newfane Justice Court was vacated because Murphy's lawyers are attempting to have the case moved to a higher court on the grounds that she cannot get a fair and impartial trial in Niagara County.

Meanwhile, the sheriff said Saturday's session was very concerning to his office and the local farm community.

"Now we have people who are trained to essentially take farm animals to rescue them," Filicetti said.

Niagara County Legislator Shawn Foti, of Newfane, said his neighbors discovered people on their property taking pictures of their farm and animals. He called the action vegan extremism and said it is hurting farmers.

"They're scared. They're scared for their lives," Foti said at Monday's Legislature meeting. "Their family members have received threats. Were a rural community, were right to farm, were ag-extensive. We put a lot of time, money and pride into our agriculture."

Filicetti said he understands people have different philosophies and lifestyles  but "when you go and start stealing animals as a result of that initiative, thats a crime. You're breaking the law."
OTTAWA COUNTY, MI  Amid public backlash and lawsuits, the Ottawa County Department of Public Health has won both national and state awards for its public health emergency and disaster response planning.

The health department announced last week it was the recipient of the Jean Chabut Health Policy Champion Award from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. OCDPH also received recognition for its ability to plan for, respond to, and recover from public health emergencies by the National Association of County and City Health Officials and Project Public Health Ready.

This is the second consecutive time the countys health department was recognized by Project Public Health Ready and is one of just eight local health departments recognized in the country for its emergency preparedness in 2022. The OCDPH was also recognized from 2017-2021 for its preparedness, including for the COVID-19 pandemic.

To be recognized by the national organization, the health department had to prove it has a coordinated emergency response plan in place, along with the appropriate staff training needed to protect community health.

Related: Health officer asks judge for longer protection from Ottawa County firing her

This honor is exceedingly well-deserved because it reflects tremendous effort, dedication, creativity and cooperation on the part of our entire team of experts, Adeline Hambley, Ottawa County administrative health officer, said in a prepared statement. I am very proud our team has been recognized for the second time by PPHR for our high level of preparedness. We will continue to improve our ability to quickly and effectively respond to future public health emergencies.

During 2022, the OCDPH responded to a multistate E. coli outbreak, an Ebola outbreak and Avian influenza. In recent years, the health department also responded to Eastern Equine Encephalitis, a Legionnaires disease investigation at an Ottawa County hotel, PFAS-contaminated drinking water at Robinson Elementary School and a recurring multi-state Salmonella outbreak.

As part of Ottawa Countys emergency management response team, the health department also worked to address issues related to chemical spills, radiological exposure incidents, weather-related and environmental events.

OCDPH preparedness staff members bring a vast depth of knowledge and experience to the countys response team, Lou Hunt, the countys emergency management director, said in a prepared statement. That experience is not limited to health emergencies. The departments ability to plan for the needs of our citizens empowers the county to be resilient in the face of any hazard.

Related: Anti-masker may be Ottawa Countys new health officer. Will the state let him?

The OCPDH was also awarded the Jean Chabut Health Policy Champion Award from the state of Michigan on April 11 for its significant contributions toward the health and well-being of Michigan citizens in the policy arena at the local and/or state level.

The awards for the health department come on the tail of months of controversy over who should lead the department.

In January, a newly elected conservative Republican-majority county board of commissioners attempted to appoint a new administrative health officer, despite Hambley having been recently confirmed by the state for her position.

Since then, Hambley has filed a lawsuit against several county commissioners to remain in her job. That lawsuit is still making its way through the court system.

The health department also faced backlash for several links on its website providing information about abortions and the departments participation in a sex education week at Grand Valley State University.

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OTTAWA COUNTY, MI  Far-right Ottawa County leaders are forbidden from firing the countys embattled health officer until the conclusion of her lawsuit against them, a judge has ruled.

Muskegon County Circuit Court Judge Jenny L. McNeill on Friday, April 14, ruled she would extend that protection, initially granted as a temporary, emergency measure, for Ottawa County Administrative Health Officer Adeline Hambley. A trial in Hambleys lawsuit must now be held within six months.

McNeill, in her opinion, also shot down arguments by the county boards far-right majority faction, called Ottawa Impact, that claimed Hambley had never been appointed as health officer. Her opinion came after hearing arguments March 31.

Hambley sued a majority of the new county board members on Feb. 13 after they voted Jan. 3 to replace her without required cause with a candidate who is opposed to masking and other COVID-19 pandemic measures.

Related: Ottawa Countys top health official sues commissioners over political demotion, imminent termination

Appointed in December as the countys new health officer by the previous board, Hambley was demoted to an interim status after the Jan. 3 vote.

In addition to damages and attorney fees, Hambley is asking the court to reinstate her as, and declare she has been, the countys health officer without an interim designation as well as require the board to follow rules related to just cause if they wish to terminate her.

In Michigan, health officers arent at-will employees and require specific cause to be fired. They must be shown to be incompetent or engaging in misconduct or neglect of duty.

The suit also asks the court to order Hambleys tentative replacement cant be appointed to a position that replaces her as health officer in all but name, and that the court invalidate the Feb. 28 resolution by the new board that revised the previous boards resolution appointing Hambley.

Hambleys lawsuit is being handled in Muskegon County, as all Ottawa County judges recused themselves, according to WOOD-TV.

In addition to granting the preliminary injunction preventing Hambleys firing, McNeill on Friday also denied a motion from attorneys representing Ottawa Impact board members that sought to have Hambleys lawsuit thrown out and have her sanctioned.

Ottawa Impact ousted a majority of county board incumbents in the elections last year after campaigning on frustrations over COVID-19 masking and culture war issues, such as diversity and inclusion. Ottawa Impact numbered eight of the boards 11 seats until two members this year distanced themselves from the group.

The argument by the countys new corporate counsel, Kallman Legal Group, wasnt that Hambley was doing a bad job but that she isnt now and never was appointed as the countys administrative health officer.

Kallmans argument came about after Ottawa Impact members on Feb. 28 voted to correct the resolution by the previous county board that appointed Hambley.

Related: Rewriting history: Ottawa Countys ex-attorney calls foul on boards revision to apparently oust official

The revision added a third contingency to the previous boards resolution, that the board vote to approve Hambley. Kallman argued the revision meant the previous board was required to vote a second time to appoint Hambley as health officer.

Because the board didnt vote a second time, Kallman argued, Hambley was never in fact appointed as health officer. Attorneys called Hambleys demotion to an interim status on Jan. 3 a promotion.

McNeill called Kallmans argument a misinterpretation of the events, as the previous board, when it unanimously appointed Hambley, fulfilled the condition of approving her.

The (sued commissioners) argue that (Hambley) was not appointed as the health officer, which the court has found not to be true, McNeill wrote.

There is no logical reason for the board to vote twice on this issue. A common sense reading of the motion and resolution are that (Hambley) was appointed as the health director.

McNeill said Hambley is entitled to judgment that she is the duly appointed administrative health officer.

By calling Hambley an interim health officer and appearing to hire a replacement, the board on Jan. 3 indicated they are likely taking adverse action against her, the judge said.

As the health officer, McNeill wrote, the board is required to follow state law around just cause in order to terminate Hambleys employment. McNeill wrote that the sued commissioners have not indicated any problems or issues with Hambleys performance.

As Michigan law does not allow for termination of the health director without a showing of incompetence, misconduct or willful neglect of duty, (Hambley) is likely to prevail on the merits, McNeill said, before going on to describe the role of health officers in protecting public health.

The public is harmed when the law is not followed in terminating a health director.

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WYOMING, MI  Former Ottawa County Administrator John Shay has been selected as Wyomings new city manager.

Shay was appointed to the citys top leadership role on Monday, April 17, by the Wyoming City Council. The council hopes to have an employment agreement approved by mid-May.

I am delighted to offer John the city manager position, said Mayor Kent Vanderwood. His well-rounded experience has prepared him to lead us into the future and work seamlessly with our staff and community partners. We look forward to his leadership as we face challenges and opportunities together as a city.

Shay replaces former city manager Curtis Holt, who retired in February. Holt had served as city manager since 2000.

Related: 4 finalists for Wyoming city manager includes fired Ottawa County administrator

Shay was most recently the Ottawa County administrator from March 2022 through January 2023, when he was abruptly fired Jan. 3 in a controversial vote by the newly seated, far-right majority on the Ottawa County Board of Commissioners.

Shay, who has worked in local government for 25 years, served as interim Ottawa County administrator from July 2021 until his appointment as county administrator. Before that, Shay served as the Ottawa County deputy county administrator, starting in July 2018.

Prior to Ottawa County, he was city manager of Ludington from February 2003 to July 2018 and the village manager of Almont from August 1998 to January 2003.

The city of Wyoming is such a vibrant community and Im eager to get started working with the team, Shay said. I am looking forward to getting to know the residents and the community and learning more about how we can work together.

Shay was abruptly fired and replaced with failed Republican Congressional candidate John Gibbs by the new Ottawa County Board in a move one leadership member said was to change the countys direction and pick an administrator who better aligns with the new board.

Related: Fired Ottawa County administrator most proud of working with unsung heroes

Board Chair Joe Moss, who also leads the far-right faction Ottawa Impact, said he had only heard good things about Shay.

Shay was among 48 candidates and four finalists considered for the Wyoming city manager role. Executive recruitment firm Baker Tilly led the nationwide search for the city.

Shay currently lives in Ludington with his wife, Carla. Shay has three children, Bethany, Evan and Molly.

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ADA, MI  The Forest Hills school board is moving forward with a national search for a new superintendent to replace the retiring Dan Behm.

At its Monday, April 17 meeting, the Forest Hills Board of Education unanimously voted to put out a targeted Request for Proposals (RFP) seeking bids from search firms to help lead the superintendent search. The RFP will likely be posted by the end of the week, board president Kristen Fauson told MLive after the meeting.

This is something we take very, very seriously, and we want the community and all the stakeholders to be very involved and take it seriously as well, because it does have lasting impact, Fauson said Monday.

The person that we hire could have a very, very long-term effect on the district. So we are very cognizant of wanting to make sure that we put out an appropriate search to get the best talent out there and find the right person to shepherd Forest Hills through the next however many years they happen to be here.

Behm will retire effective this summer. He is stepping down after 17 years serving Forest Hills Public Schools, which is one of the largest school districts in West Michigan with over 9,000 students.

RELATED: Forest Hills Superintendent Dan Behm announces retirement after 17 years

During Mondays meeting, the board settled on doing a targeted RFP process, which means the board will send out RFPs to a specific number of search firms that have experience working with similar districts to Forest Hills.

The board unanimously agreed that a targeted RFP process would be more efficient than conducting a standard RFP process, where the district would seek bids from any and all search firms and wait to see which firms respond.

Trustee CJ Michaud said it makes more sense to go directly to the search firms that have experience working with school districts for superintendent searches, rather than waiting for them to respond to a general RFP.

There are some groups in the state of Michigan who search for dozens and dozens and dozens of superintendents every calendar year, so they know a lot of people in this state and a lot of administrators and leaders, and outside our state as well, Michaud said during the boards discussion.

So I think the targeted approach does make sense. I think we have a good idea of people we would ask, who we know are very good at helping districts do this. And its the right mix, in my mind, of doing it quickly and efficiently, but not trimming and not missing opportunity elsewhere.

Fauson said the board has not yet chosen which specific firms it will seek bids from, but that the board will likely send out the targeted RFPs by the end of this week. Its still too early to say how much the superintendent search will cost the district, she told MLive.

The board also discussed the possibility of appointing an interim superintendent to lead the district if the superintendent search lasts longer than this summer, when Behm will step down. Fauson said trustees want to give the community plenty of time to give input on what they want to see in the next superintendent.

Were coming up on the end of the school year and into summer vacation, and not everybodys around all the time, she said. We dont want to rush through something and not get enough input on what it is that the community is looking for. So if it takes a little bit longer to make sure we get the right person, were willing to do that and have an interim come in, to tend to the books in the mean time.

The board unanimously approved a motion to create a three-member subcommittee that will help with the superintendent search process. The subcommittee will not make any decisions in the process, but rather present information to the full board about the organization and logistics of the process.

Before Mondays meeting, the board received training on how to conduct a superintendent search from Jay Bennett, assistant director of executive search services for the Michigan Association of School Boards.

Behm is leaving the district as one of the longest-serving superintendents in West Michigan, having devoted the majority of his career to Forest Hills Public Schools. He has dedicated more than 30 years to serving Michigan public schools, including 22 years as a superintendent.

He joins many longtime superintendents and school administrators who have decided to retire in the last three years. Michigan was hit by a wave of superintendent retirements over the two years, particularly in West Michigan.

Throughout Behms tenure, the superintendent led the district through the passage of three bond proposals, launched the districts K-12 Mandarin Chinese immersion program, increased graduation rates, increased the percentage of high school students enrolled in Advanced Placement courses, and helped lead the district through the COVID-19 pandemic.

Before coming to Forest Hills, Behm previously served as the superintendent of Carman-Ainsworth Community Schools in Flint. He graduated from the University of Michigan.

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ZEELAND, MI  The CEO of furniture company MillerKnoll is in the spotlight after she told employees worried about not receiving bonuses to leave pity city.

Andi Owen, who has led the company since 2018, made the remarks in an online meeting, a portion of which has been posted on social media. It has generated scores of views and comments, and articles in publications ranging from Fortune Magazine to CBS News.

Dont ask about what are we going to do if we dont get a bonus, she said in the video clip, which appears to be a zoom-style meeting with employees. Get the damn $26 million. Spend your time and your effort thinking about the $26 million we need and not thinking about what youre going to do if we dont get a bonus.

She goes on to say: I had an old boss who said to me one time you can visit pity city, but you cant live there. So people leave pity city, lets get it done.

The video clip of Owens comments is about 1 minute and 20 seconds long. One account on the social media platform Twitter that posted the video showed the tweet containing the video had been viewed by 22.5 million users. The video clip was not dated.

A representative of MillerKnoll could not immediately be reached for comment.

The company was formed in 2021 after Herman Miller purchased Pennsylvania-based furniture manufacturer Knoll Inc. for $1.8 billion. Owen had served as Herman Millers president since 2018, and formerly served as an executive with clothing manufacturer GAP and Banana Republic, her LinkedIn page shows.

The company told Fortune Magazine employee bonuses have not yet been determined, nor will they be until its books are closed next month, the magazine reported.

zoom call from a ceo who cancelled all employee bonuses but took a $6.4 million bonus herself pic.twitter.com/SMZP6QQYCX  Warren Commission Test Skull (@conzmoleman) April 17, 2023

According to Fortune, Owen received $3.9 million in incentive pay last year on top of her $1.1 million fixed salary.

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OTTAWA COUNTY, MI  The Ottawa Area Intermediate School District (OAISD) Board of Education is seeking candidates to fill two expiring seats on the board that will become available on July 1.

The OAISD governing board is made up of five members who serve six-year terms. Two current board members hold seats that will expire on June 30, 2023: Randy Schipper, who is running for reelection, and John Siemion, who is retiring and will not seek reelection.

The OAISD will hold a special election on Monday, June 5 to fill the two open seats, the district announced on April 14.

OAISD board members are elected by representatives from each constituent local district board of education served by the OAISD. Those districts are Allendale, Coopersville, Grand Haven, Hamilton, Holland, Hudsonville, Jenison, Saugatuck, Spring Lake, West Ottawa, and Zeeland.

Anyone who is interested in running for a seat on the board must be a registered voter in one of the 11 constituent school districts.

Applicants must file a nominating petition with at least 40 valid elector signatures, or pay a nonrefundable $100 filing fee, to the Ottawa County Clerks Office no later than 4 p.m. on May 8.

Petition packets can be picked up at the Ottawa County Clerks Office, located at 12220 Fillmore St. in West Olive, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Schipper, of Holland, currently serves as the boards secretary. Siemion, of Grand Haven, is the boards vice president.

Siemion served 22 years on the Grand Haven Area Public Schools Board of Education, six years on the OAISD Board of Education and four years on the Board of Directors for the Michigan Association of School Boards. He retired from JSJ Corporation in 2012, according to an OAISD news release.

The longtime school board member said he is looking forward to fully retiring to spend more time traveling with his wife and visiting their three children, five grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren, the release said.

It has been so gratifying knowing I have made a difference in the lives of thousands of children over the years, Siemion said in a statement. I enjoyed working with my fellow board members and school staff, but I will miss the students the most.

Ottawa Area ISD School Board President Carol Slagh said Siemion has been an engaged, upbeat and positive leader who visited buildings and programs and spent time getting to know staff members.

John always wanted the best educational opportunities for our kids, Slagh said. He has been a pleasure to work with on the OAISD Board. We will miss John and wish him the best!

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JACKSON COUNTY, MI  A mothers love from a big dog kept a tiny kitten warm and fed until his very last day.

Kela, a Great Dane-mix brought to the Jackson County Animal Shelter, welcomed the abandoned 2-week old kitten into her litter of 10 puppies in early April.

On Friday, April 14, however, the kitten died due to a possible genetic disorder, Animal Shelter Director Lydia Sattler said.

Related: Great Dane adopts tiny kitten into her litter at Michigan animal shelter

The kitten wasnt suffering or anything. He was nursing and doing great, but he just had a neurological thing that caused him to pass away, Sattler said.

The kitten met Kela soon after arriving at the shelter. He was believed to be abandoned and, after his death, shelter employees speculate his original cat mom possibly took note of his health issue and rejected him, Sattler said.

Its not uncommon if theres something wrong a mom can easily detect but you cant physically see that may be a reason he was abandoned, Sattler said.

Kela was selective of people, but took interest in the kitten when he came in. The kitten was seeing the vet, and she heard his cries behind the door, and wanted to get to him.

Eventually, Sattler added the kitten to the rest of Kelas litter and she started to clean him, as if he was one of her puppies. The kitten became an official member of Kelas litter, where he was cleaned, cuddled and even nursed.

Up until his death, the kitten received the best care from Kela, and the shelter never heard him cry once while he was with her. He was truly loved by Kela and his 3-week-old doggie siblings, Sattler said.

I know that him being with Kela, versus us bottle feeding him, he was constantly warm, he was constantly snuggled, Sattler said. He had the best nutrition. So, if he was going to have a short life, Im glad that he got to spend it (with Kela).

Kela and the 10 puppies are still being fostered by Jackson residents Gene and Sue Chapel until the puppies are 8-weeks old and ready to be adopted.

Kela is doing OK, even after losing her favorite kitten, Sattler said, adding the rest of the puppies are growing big, and she has been slowly warming up to other people.

Shes going on and doing what good moms are going to do, and taking care of the rest of her babies, Sattler said.

The shelter was going to host a naming contest for the kitten, with the winner receiving a $50-gift card to Nevermore Decor Store, 120 W. Michigan Ave., Suite 102, in Jackson. Now the shelter will look for another event and contest to apply the gift card to, Sattler said.

People can visit the animal shelter at 3370 Spring Arbor Road. Other adoption resources can be found by emailing animalshelter@mijackson.org.

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VAN BUREN COUNTY, MI  Rob Winblad heard the air raid sirens for the first time less than five minutes after arriving in Ukraines capital city in February.

Two hours in a day never went by without shelling or air raid sirens, he said. The shelling was always constant. There were a couple nights where I wasnt sure I would survive the night because the shelling was close enough that you could hear debris landing (on the house) and it was just continuing to pound the village that I was in.

Winblad, a 26-year-old from the Van Buren County village of Mattawan, was in Kiev for a period of almost two months, from early February to late March. He volunteered to help with deliver supplies near some of the areas main hot spots.

He hopes to return soon to assist a team of volunteer paramedics from Finland.

While he doesnt have any large-scale medical training and has not studied medicine in school, Winblad recently became certified in shock trauma field aid after attending an academy in Los Angeles, he said.

With the paramedics, I can provide another pair of hands that knows how to apply a tourniquet, hemostatic dressing, chest seal, etc. and leave the paramedics hands to do the more complicated tasks, Winblad said.

Winblads plan is to return as soon as he raises enough money to pay for 90 days of transportation and living expenses. He has set up a GoFundMe in hopes of achieving a goal of $2,800 to cover his costs.

I was looking to be able to put my skills to use somewhere and the hot zones tend to attract me, Winblad said.

He had hoped to team up with other volunteers to assist with personnel extraction or commonwealth security, but those opportunities did not arise.

Winblads older sister has been involved with an orphan hosting program in the country since 2017. She connected him with a chaplain looking for help with supply drops.

Because of his sister, this wasnt Winblads first trip to Ukraine. He visited her in late 2021, just months before the Russian invasion started in February 2022.

The Winblads have a recently-adopted brother from Ukraine. So during his 2021 trip, Winblad saw firsthand the orphanage where his brother Igor, now 19, had just been adopted from.

The Ukraine Winblad saw on his second trip looked much different, he said.

Winblad compared what he saw to photos of 1945 Dresden or Berlin. Three out of four buildings would be destroyed or hit, some were nothing more than piles of rubble, he said.

The Russians have made it clear that they are attempting to raze the city to the ground and so far theyre succeeding, Winblad said. Its just insane, the levels of destruction. But also, in the midst of this destruction, theres so much hope because theres people who are continuing their daily lives and (some of) the infrastructure has recovered.

While there is hope and resolve, and even a degree of optimism, theres also death  something that makes it more personal for everyone involved, Winblad included.

Just two weeks into the invasion, a facilitator with the orphan hosting group was killed by a Chechen sniper.

He was getting supplies for the group of people he was with, hiding in a church basement. He walked out into the street and was shot in the head, Winblad said. That definitely made it a little more personal, and really personal for my sister.

She was really torn up about it because she was good friends with this guy. I worked with him several times with the orphan hosting program (in 2021).

Despite knowing people whove been killed, Winblad was fortunate to not see any fatalities up close in his first 7 1/2-week tour of volunteering.

He expects he wont be so lucky the second time around, as he intends to be closer to the action working with paramedics in the field.

Asked if he feared for his life, Winblad said he doesnt scare easily.

If its my time its my time, he said. If not, then Im not going to die over there. (But) Id rather, if it is my time, to be doing something to make the world a better place ... to do something good and to help people. And if thats how I go, its better that than (if I were) doing something stupid.

For Winblad, not returning to his younger brothers native country is not an option, he said.

The big thing I would say is, Ukraine is the shield of Europe at this point, Winblad said. We are fighting a proxy war with Russia and if we  as many people are claiming we should  stop funding Ukraine in this war, and Ukraine falls, Europe will fall with it.

Winblad believes it could eventually lead to fighting on American soil if Russia prevails.

We are essentially fighting what amounts to World War III right now because the world has begun to fight in Ukraine.

Winblad opted to do this mission as a volunteer. If he signed a contract with the Ukrainian Army, for instance, he said hed likely wind up serving on the front line for an extended period of time, which doesnt appeal to him.

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BAY CITY, MI - Counties across Michigan are banding together in opposition to the proposed Camp Grayling expansion. Bay County will be considering whether or not to join their ranks this week.

On Tuesday, April 18, the Bay County Board of Commissioners will consider a resolution in opposition to a proposal to expand Camp Graylings space.

At the state level, the DNR is currently reviewing a proposal for the expansion of the camp onto DNR-leased lands. The proposal for approximately 162,000 acres of land around the camp, headquartered west of the city of Grayling. According to the state, the proposed expansion is aimed at accommodating evolving training methods.

The proposed base expansion is being advanced concurrent with a military airspace expansion over northern Michigan that would allow jets to fly as low as 300 feet in some places, MLive reported. The additional land is needed for space, cyber and electronic warfare training, and the expanded airspace for modern fighter jet maneuvers by the National Guard.

The base spreads across part of Crawford, Kalkaska and Ostegos counties, each of which formally opposed the proposal.

MLive reported that neighboring Roscommon County officially opposed the expansions, as well as several county road commissions and 30 different townships near the area.

While Bay County does not contain any parts of the base in its borders, its neighbors to the north that do are popular vacation and recreation spots for Bay County residents.

Northern Michigan relies on the recreational opportunities presented by their beautiful rich forests, pristine rivers, and open farmlands, the resolution says. And the people of Northern Michigan want to retain what is left of its rustic and natural outdoor playground atmosphere, for the enjoyment of its citizens and visitors.

The resolution goes on to state that the proposed Camp Grayling expansion will disrupt the peaceful enjoyment of natural resources and damage the tourism industry, creating more hardship for the states citizens.

The resolution also references contamination concerns, which has been a point of contention for opponents of the expansion.

The Michigan National Guards usage of our public land has already created contamination of the areas ground water and has already been poisoning citizens for years without giving the community a plan for cleanup, the resolution reads.

Click here to read the rest of the resolution.

The April 18 meeting starts at 4 p.m. in the Bay County Commission Chambers on the fourth floor of the Bay County Building 515 Center Avenue. Click here to access the rest of Tuesdays agenda.

Read more from MLive

DNR to winnow Camp Grayling expansion, testifies director

Opposition to Camp Grayling expansion high among local governments

Military airspace expansion plan irks Camp Grayling growth opponents

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DEERFIELD TWP, MI  An Isabella County man is in custody after allegedly not telling anyone his wife had died, a fact he concealed by keeping her body in his house.

The morning of April 17, deputies were contacted by the family of a 67-year-old woman they had not heard from for a couple of years. The family, who do not live in the area, said there had been a falling out between them and the woman but that they had grown increasingly concerned about her, said Sheriff Michael J. Main.

Deputies went to the womans house in the 1000 block of West Baseline Road in Deerfield Township, northwest of Mount Pleasant. They spoke with the womans 54-year-old husband, who told them his wife no longer lived there and he did not have a forwarding address for her, Main said.

Deputies arrested the man on an outstanding warrant of third-offense operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated. Authorities had issued the warrant back in October 2021, records show.

Deputies continued searching for the mans wife and obtained a search warrant for his house. On entering, they found the womans body in a living area, Main said.

Main said the woman appeared to have been deceased for months, though the body was not significantly deteriorated and was preserved where they found her. The body bore no obvious signs of trauma, he added.

Michigan State Police Crime Lab personnel responded to the scene to process it. An autopsy is to be conducted on the womans body to determine a cause, manner, and date of death, Main said. He added there is a possibility the woman succumbed to a natural death.

In the meantime, her husband remains jailed on the prior drunken driving charge, as well as new counts of financial fraud, failure to report a dead body, and disinterment-mutilation of a dead body.

Main could not divulge the name of the deceased woman, saying next of kin are still being notified. MLive is not publishing her husbands name until he is arraigned on criminal charges in Isabella County District Court.

Read more:

Teen faces charge in connection with threatening notes left at Bay City Central High School

Saginaw man dies in fiery crash on I-75 in Bay County

Prosecutors urge prison for optometrist who left nooses around Saginaw, made racist calls to Starbucks
ALBANY  Gov. Kathy Hochuls signature initiative this year was a plan to build 800,000 units of housing in New York over a decade. In her State of the State in January, Hochul said that solving our housing crisis would be a huge step toward making New York more affordable.

But amid fierce resistance from the State Legislature, Hochul is no longer making her housing plan a priority in state budget negotiations.

That removes a major hurdle to passing a state budget, but means New York will likely not pass any major housing initiative in 2023. Indeed, Hochul is refusing to go along with the alternative plan put forward by the Legislature, arguing it would not be successful. By not accepting the Legislatures plan, Hochul is preserving the option of fighting to push through her own initiative at a future time.

Housing had been a key sticking point contributing to a lengthy delay in passing a state budget that was due April 1. While Hochul has said passing a good budget is more important than a timely one, it became clear that the Legislature was not budging.

Hochul has argued that New York has among the most restrictive land use policies and building approval processes in the country, which inhibit the development of multifamily housing and add significant costs to building homes. The centerpiece of the Hochul plan, called the New York Housing Compact, created targets for home creation running in three-year cycles, which will apply to all municipalities: villages, towns and cities.

In downstate New York, municipalities would have had a target of 3% growth in new homes over three years. For municipalities in upstate New York, the target would have been is 1%.

The most contentious aspect of Hochuls plan would have allowed developers to bypass local zoning restrictions if housing growth did not occur quickly enough in a locality.

The Assembly and Senate scrapped Hochuls idea in their one-house budget proposals in mid-March. Instead, legislative Democrats wanted to provide $500 million in incentives for local governments to hit growth goals. But supporters of Hochuls plan say that, especially for affluent suburbs prone to resisting new development, the incentive will not work.

In a statement on Tuesday, Hochul said that, "After weeks of negotiations, the Legislature continues to oppose core elements of the Housing Compact, including the requirement that communities across the state meet growth targets.

We have not yet come to a final agreement, but it remains clear that merely providing incentives will not make the meaningful change that New Yorkers deserve, Hochul said. I will continue to discuss other elements of the plan and policy changes that will increase supply and make housing more affordable.

Rachel Fee, executive director of the New York Housing Conference, said Hochuls office reached out Tuesday morning to inform the group of the governor's decision to de-emphasize housing during negotiations.

The New York Housing Conference, a nonprofit affordable housing policy and advocacy organization, supported Hochuls plan. Fee says Hochul was right not to go along with the Legislatures incentive-based approach, calling the plan a waste of taxpayer money that had proven not viable in other states and would simply subsidize housing that would be built anyway.

We think she did the right thing by not adopting a program that was destined to fail, Fee said.

Many local elected officials throughout New York were opposed to Hochuls plan, and Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins recently stated that lawmakers were struggling to sell the proposal to their constituents.

After the budget is passed, Hochul will have less leverage to push through priorities for the rest of the 2023 legislative session, including housing. Fee believes Hochuls plan is unlikely to be revived before years end, but also think Hochul's proposal this year could have a longer-term impact.

I think that the governor put out a really bold proposal, and this is going to be part of a push in New York where voters are going to demand action on the housing supply, Fee said.

Based on her conversation with the governors office, Fee believes a number of other housing issues remain part of budget negotiations, although its unlikely any will significantly move the needle on increasing housing supply. Many of the major outstanding issues primarily impact New York City, although potential changes to two  the Emergency Rental Assistance Program and the Housing Access Voucher Program  have statewide ramifications, Fee said.

Hochul had much more success pushing through her other major budget priority, a change in the states bail laws clarifying judges discretion to set bail. The change Hochul sought is very likely to be part of the final budget agreement.
BAY CITY, MI  Theres a new Biggby Coffee location on Wilder Road in Bay City that opened to customers early Tuesday morning, April 18.

The coffee chains newest mid-Michigan store is located at 4114 Wilder Road and was ready to serve customers beginning at 6 a.m.

To celebrate its grand opening, Biggby Coffee in Bay City is offering special promotions Tuesday through Friday, April 21, including donating $1 from every cup sold on opening day to the Bay County Animal Services & Adoption Center. All the opening week promotions are highlighted on the Biggby Coffee Bay City Facebook page.

Christopher Conrad, 26, and Martha Jean Jacoby, 23, are two of the co-owners of the new location and among Biggby Coffees youngest store owners. They met while working at Biggby stores in Saginaw County before deciding to open their own location in Bay City along with Conrads father, Daniel Lee Conrad, a Vietnam War Veteran and former mayor of Algonac.

I really fell in love with the company values as well as what the company stood for, and I just liked being a barista, Christopher Conrad said. The three of us decided we would jump on it together.

Christopher Conrad said the new store has a staff of about 20, and he is always accepting applications.

Were really excited, he said of the stores opening. Were excited to meet the entire community.

Biggbys online menu features coffee and espresso drinks served hot, iced or frozen, seasonal drinks, tea lattes, kids drinks, bagels, muffins, sandwiches and other items.

Christopher Conrads favorites include the firefly latte, flavored with white chocolate, vanilla and cinnamon, Biggby Best medium roast, the banana bread creme freeze and the rainbow rooibos tea latte.

The new Wilder Road store will be open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday.

Nearby Biggby Coffee locations can be found at 3085 Bay Road and 5775 State St. in Saginaw Township, 115 S. Main St. in Freeland, and 957 S. Saginaw Road and 6615 Eastman Ave. in Midland.

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BAY CITY, MI  As Black Lives Matter protests occurred around the country in the summer of 2020 following a Minneapolis police officers killing of George Floyd, retired Saginaw optometrist Kenneth D. Pilon made his feelings known. He did so by calling nine Michigan Starbucks in one hour to advocate for Black peoples deaths, stating a desire to lynch minorities, and leaving nooses in locals vehicles.

In text messages to relatives, Pilon expressed adrenalin-fueled joy over his actions and reveled in reports of Black people being killed or injured.

One can only hope for more lynchings! Pilon wrote to his daughter. These little bits of protester death information actually put a little bounce in my step. Hahahahha!!!

Having pleaded guilty to federal hate crimes and with his sentencing looming, prosecutors are pushing for prison time. Pilons defense attorney, though, is asking for leniency, claiming his client fell victim to a perfect storm of deteriorating mental health, isolation, and constant bombardment from media of civil unrest.

Pilon, 62, in December appeared in U.S. District Court and pleaded guilty to two counts of violating federally protected activities. In exchange, prosecutors agreed to dismiss four more counts of the same charge, which is punishable by up to one year in prison, a fine of $100,000, and a year of supervised release.

In an April 17 sentencing memorandum from the U.S. Attorneys Office, prosecutors recommended Pilon serve 10 months in prison, followed by a year of supervised release with participation in mental health treatment. Pilons sentencing guidelines range from 15 to 21 months incarceration, prosecutors wrote.

He weaponized the vile language and visceral symbols of the Jim Crow-era to communicate his death threats, prosecutors wrote. Racially motivated offenses like these  devastate not only the immediate recipients of the defendants threats, but also entire families and communities by instilling fear that they too could be targeted because of the color of their skin or the skin of people whom they dare to wear a T-shirt supporting.

25 Saginaw community leaders rally around residents targeted by 'domestic terrorism' with noose left on property

In their push for imprisonment, prosecutors wrote Pilons death-threat spree resulted from a deep-seated desire to harm Black people and celebrate such harm. They also referenced text messages Pilon sent his adult daughter and ex-wife, complaining about BLM protests, besmirching participants and expressing glee and giddiness over Black people being killed or injured.

In one message, he told his daughter he made the calls to Starbucks.

My opinion was direct and maybe a little unpleasant which caused me to have a pretty big adrenaline rush, Pilon wrote. It was fun!

In the prosecutions eyes, a prison sentence is necessary to protect the public and deter Pilon from making more threats in the future.

Defense attorney Barry A. Wolf in a sentencing memorandum of his own from April 12 wrote Pilon is deeply remorseful and embarrassed, and that his actions were out of character. He had no prior criminal record, apart from a drunken driving conviction from when he was about 20.

In June and July of 2020, a perfect storm of long-term physical pain, untreated mental health problems and social isolation collided with the never-ending exposure to news stories of social and political demonstrations/unrest, Wolf wrote.

Pilon moved to Saginaw in 1987 and worked as an optometrist until retiring in 2012 due to a painful degenerative joint disease. The unrelenting pain negatively affected Pilons mental health and caused him to experience anxiety and depression, Wolf wrote. His condition worsened through 2018 and 2019, and by 2020 he was contemplating suicide after he and his third wife divorced, Wolf wrote.

The COVID-19 lockdown worsened Pilons mental state and deepened his sense of isolation.

In the weeks after George Floyds May 25 death, an unstable Pilon was exposed to near-constant media coverage of resulting protests. He acted irrationally in making calls to Starbucks, and was then inspired by the June 21 story of NASCAR driver Bubba Wallace finding a noose in his garage stall at the Talladega Superspeedway in Alabama.

In August 2020, Pilon impulsively bought a condominium in Phoenix, Arizona, to be closer to his daughter and new grandchild. He listed his Saginaw Township home for sale and soon accepted an offer, but then panicked and demanded the sale be rescinded. This cost him $13,000, Wolf wrote.

During the course of this emotional and psychological downward spiral, Wolf wrote, Pilon was slapped in the face with reality.

As FBI agents searched his home, Pilon was overcome with fear, causing him to finally address his deteriorating mental state and seek professional help, Wolf wrote. Since then, Pilon has been treated by a psychologist.

Wolf asked U.S. District Judge Thomas L. Ludington to not send Pilon to prison, citing his age and mental condition. Rather, he urged the judge to sentence Pilon to home confinement or community placement with a focus on his mental health.

Wolf included letters penned by Pilons younger brother, ex-wife, and fellow optometrist. All three wrote of their shock at Pilons conduct, saying he never expressed racism before and, conversely, had been charitable and giving to people from all walks of life.

When he pleaded, Pilon admitted that on June 14, 2020, he called nine Starbucks locations in Saginaw, Bay City, Birch Run, Flint, Ann Arbor, Allen Park, and Oak Park, telling employees who answered the phone to Tell the employees working there wearing Black Lives Matter shirts that the only good (racial epithet) is a dead (racial epithet). In his call to the Bay City Starbucks, Pilon added he was gonna go out and lynch me a (racial epithet).

Pilon made the nine calls in 63 minutes, days after Starbucks announced it was providing 250,000 BLM shirts to employees who wanted to wear them during their shifts.

Pilon also admitted that on July 12, 2020, he placed a noose and handwritten note inside the truck of Black resident Donald Simon as it was parked in his houses driveway on Saginaws North Carolina Street.

An accessory to be worn with your BLM t-shirt, the note read. Happy Protesting!

Simons then-wife, Regina Simon, is Mexican-white and previously told MLive she had been wearing a BLM shirt in her yard the day before and presumed Pilon had driven by and seen her. The Simons did not know Pilon beforehand.

The four dismissed counts relate to Pilon allegedly placing similar nooses and notes in a 7-Eleven beverage cooler and parking lots of Walmart, Goodwill, and Kroger stores in Saginaw County between June 22 and July 17, 2020. With one of the nooses, the accompanying note said its author was going to lynch me a (racial epithet).

Pilon was not criminally charged until April 2022.

In response to the intimidation tactic, the Simons hosted a BLM rally on their property on July 18, 2020. Speakers included then-state Rep. Vanessa Guerra, Saginaw City Councilman Bill J. Ostash, and NAACP Saginaw Branch President Terry Pruitt.

Court documents dont elaborate on how investigators developed Pilon as a suspect. Regina Simon previously told MLive she was told someone witnessed Pilon leave a noose at Kroger on July 17, 2020, then followed him to his house and tipped off law enforcement.

Judge Ludington is to sentence Pilon, who is free on bond, at 10 a.m. on April 19.

Read more:

Saginaw optometrist pleads guilty to hate crimes after leaving nooses around town, making racist calls to Starbucks

I want to know why, says Saginaw woman targeted with noose, racist note

Saginaw optometrist federally charged with leaving nooses, calling Starbucks with racist threats

Community rallies around Saginaw couple who found noose, racist note in vehicle

Saginaw police investigate possible racially motivated crime after noose found inside vehicle
The kids are all right  at least when it comes to democratic participation.

Young voters in Michigan turned out in the midterms more than in any other state, according to a new report from researchers at Tufts University in Massachusetts.

In Michigan, 36.5% of voting-eligible residents aged 18-29 cast ballots in the November 2022 election, beating the other 38 states for which data was available. The national youth average participation rate was 23%.

Michigan also was one of four states where young voter turnout was higher in 2022 than the previous midterm election, 2018. The state gained 3.8 percentage points, surpassed only by New Yorks 4.3-point gain.

Maine came in second in youth turnout last year at 35.8%, and two states  Minnesota and Oregon  tied for third at 35.5%. Tennessee had the lowest youth turnout: 12.7% of eligible voters.

The Tufts report, released earlier this month, does not list a margin of error.

Abortion was a major motivating issue for young voters, per the report, especially in Michigan, where Proposal 3 enshrined reproductive rights into the state constitution. The issue also helped Democrats gain a majority in the legislature and retain the governors office.

Michigans accessible voting registration is also highlighted in the report, including its online, same-day and automatic registration laws.

Related: Did Gen Z students drive increased voter turnout on Nov. 8? Some clerks say yes

A strong democracy requires informed and engaged citizens, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson said in a statement, and Michigan is leading the way in ensuring our youngest voters are active participants in determining our future.

She credited partnerships with colleges and their local clerks with helping students cast ballots conveniently. The University of Michigan, for example, had a robust early voting site at the campus art museum.

Related: Its a mess. Behind the long election lines at the University of Michigan

Bensons administration also partnered with Michigan high schools, in a program called MI Vote Matters, to encourage 17- and 18-year-olds to register to vote.

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The Michigan legislature recently reintroduced a bill package that would allow all Michigan residents, regardless of immigration status, to obtain a drivers license or identification card.

Immigrant rights and advocacy groups have praised the bills, which lawmakers are calling the Drive SAFE (Safety, Access, Freedom and Economy) legislation. They say it would allow immigrants and others without legal documentation to travel safely to work or the grocery store or take their kids to school without fear of being unnecessarily detained or deported.

Adonis Flores, director of Immigrant Rights at Michigan United, said in a statement that the issue is about more than just the drivers license itself, but it instead represents dignity, acceptance and it is a tool for social mobility.

The passage of this bill will allow folks to live their daily lives in peace, pursue new careers and educational goals, and just be a part of their community with the dignity of knowing that a simple traffic stop will not uproot their entire lives, he said.

The legislation would remove barriers for immigrant communities imposed under the federal Real ID Act, which went into effect in 2008 and made sweeping changes to immigration law, as well as a 2007 opinion issued by former Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox, which declared if a person is not a lawful resident of the United States they cannot obtain a drivers license in the state.

Flores said these laws have impeded hundreds of thousands of immigrants who are lawfully residing in Michigan through federal programs, like Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), which protects people who were born in another country but came to the U.S. as children.

Under current policy, the backlog of (the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) means that our immigrant neighbors may have to go months or years without a drivers license simply because their work permit is delayed, and when it arrives it often expires within a few months or weeks, Flores said. This is unsustainable.

Currently, only individuals who pass the drivers test and prove legal citizenship status are allowed to receive a drivers license in Michigan.

Under the bills introduced in the state House and Senate Senate Bills 265, 266, and 267 and House Bills 4410, 4411, and 4412 they would only have to be a Michigan resident, and authorities would not consider their citizenship or immigration status. The laws would also forbid the secretary of state from sharing any of applicants information with immigration enforcement.

As the daughter of a Mexican immigrant and a first-generation American, chair of the Michigan Legislative Latino Caucus Sen. Mary Cavanagh, D-Redford Township, said in a statement the legislation is much-needed.

Until 2008, proof of citizenship was not an additional barrier in accessing a drivers license in Michigan, Cavanagh said. This legislation removes that barrier and restores accessibility for every Michigander to the necessities of life from work, health care and education, while also promoting road safety and strengthening community trust.

If signed into law, the legislation would put Michigan in line with the other nineteen states and Washington, D.C., where lawmakers have passed similar legislation.

Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, and that includes enabling them to fully participate in their communities, said the American Civil Liberties Union of West Michigan Advocacy Strategist Liz Balck. It is time to restore drivers licenses to all Michiganders once and for all.

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Trains should be shorter, better staffed to prevent derailments, Michigan senators say

5 things to know about new automatic expungement in Michigan

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Standard Chartered and the IFC have announced the signing of a $700 million investment in IFCs Global Trade Liquidity Programme (GTLP) to support global trade finance.

This renewed facility is expected to support up to $6.4 billion in trade over three years across Asia, the Middle East, Africa and Latin America by supporting about 850 importers and exporters involved in critical commodities, basic goods and other essential materials to meet market demand.

Since the launch of the initial facility in 2009, the Standard Chartered GTLP facilities have shown strong reach and impact in supporting trade in the emerging markets, particularly those supported by the International Development Association (IDA), as well as low/lower middle-income countries, given the Banks established network and correspondent banking relationships. When combined, these facilities have supported over $20.5 billion in global trade through over 150 Emerging Market Issuing Banks (EMIBs) in 37 countries across 17,746 transactions, without any defaults.

The GTLP programme

The GTLP programme continues to evolve to reflect changing market dynamics and now features a significant climate component as well as seeking greater activity in the areas of IDA markets and food security.

"We are delighted to renew the GTLP, a longstanding partnership with the IFC since 2009 that is testament to both organisations unwavering commitment to narrow the trade finance gap, said Sunil Kaushal, Regional Chief Executive Officer for Africa & Middle East at Standard Chartered.

"As a leading trade bank, we have a crucial role to play in enhancing the accessibility to the capital and liquidity needed to facilitate global trade, and to do so in a sustainable manner. Particularly in todays challenging post pandemic macro environment, such partnerships can help continue to provide the much-needed liquidity to boost trade flows and drive economic growth. This partnership is at the core of what we do as a Bank and in complete alignment with our stand of Resetting Globalisation.

Trade flows

The GLTP facility has proven to be a highly effective means to channel financing to support emerging market trade flows, and represents a unique and coordinated global initiative that brings together governments, international development and financial institutions, as well as private sector banks.

By providing liquidity or guarantees, the programme helps banks grow their credit limits, manage risk and support trade across developing markets which are often under-served.

The joint work of Standard Chartered and the IFC Trade & Supply Chain Department over the years has helped support trade in Emerging Markets, a key component of growth and job creation, said Mohamed Gouled, IFC Vice President. Given our aligned footprint, shared vision for sustainable development and ability to deploy capital and expertise where our support is needed the most, I look forward to continuing to innovate together and to further expanding our impactful partnership in trade with an increased focus on Sub-Saharan Africa and supporting smaller suppliers further down the supply chain.-- TradeArabia News Service
The Tops Markets on Jefferson Avenue will be closed on May 14, the one-year anniversary of a racist mass shooting that targeted shoppers at the store, leaving 10 people dead, three wounded and countless others traumatized.

The closure will give the community time to heal and allow Tops workers time with their families on the emotion-filled anniversary, Tops said.

Tops will provide bus service that day to take shoppers to a different Tops store.

One year later, our hearts still ache for the victims, survivors, their families and our community, and we reflect with gratitude for everyone who responded to this hateful, racist attack with abundant love for our neighbors, said John Persons, Tops president, in a statement. Our collective healing is helped by the way people in Western New York came together and the way we continue to show up for each other."

Persons said Tops workers have proven resilient in moving forward to serve the neighborhood.

"As we remember the lives lost and altered on that day, we deepen our resolve to support and uplift the Jefferson Avenue community," Persons said.

Later this year, the supermarket will install a permanent memorial to honor those affected by the tragedy.

To be located at the corner of Jefferson Avenue and Landon Street, the memorial was designed by North Tonawanda-based landscape architect Joy Kuebler, who received input from community members, survivors and family members of the victims.

The project is separate from Tops' participation in New York State's May 14 Memorial Commission, which works with community members and civic leaders to develop another memorial structure dedicated to the 10 victims who died in the attack.

In the year since the mass shooting, Tops has worked to bring more Black-owned business products to its shelves, especially local food and beverage manufacturers, it said.

Before the store reopened after the attack, Tops renovated the store inside and out, complete with new interior layout, additional security, a memorial water wall inside the store, expanded food offerings, new landscaping and a repaved parking lot. The store reopened July 15.

The Jefferson Avenue store will remain closed until 7 a.m. May 15 and resume normal hours of operation. The free shuttle service offered May 14 will take shoppers from the Jefferson Avenue parking lot to the Tops store on Elmwood Avenue, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., every hour on the hour.

The company will post signs around the store starting at the end of the month to inform customers about the closure and the shuttle service.

Also that week will be several communitywide events during the city's "5/14 Remembrance Weekend of Reflection, Healing & Hope," Mayor Byron Brown recently announced. It will include a panel discussion on fighting white supremacy and radicalization on social media, a community gathering and memorial service.
Famed Nollywood actress and producer, Ini Edo has been nominated for 10 awards at the upcoming AMVCA 2023.

The actress expressed her excitement in an Instagram post after the announcement of the nominees.

She shared a photo of the movie poster for Shanty Town, the movie that earned her the nominations, and captioned it, 10 Nominations! Phew! Did I see the nominations coming?? Yes...just didn't know it will come in such grand style.

Ini Edo went on to express her gratitude to the cast and crew of Shanty Town, calling them her tribe, and thanking them for their hard work.

She also thanked her supportive cast members, her unwavering audience, and her co-executive producers for their contributions in making the movie a success.

Now the time has come to bring home the Shanty awards..Every nominated individual put in so much work to make Shanty Town the great Series we all saw. So please fam help the tribe of Shantytown bring these awards Home...Thank you for your support always...And to my Co-Executive producers.... We did This!! Literally, she added.

Ini Edo has built a successful career in the Nigerian movie industry, starring in several blockbuster movies and producing many award-winning films.

With her 10 nominations at the AMVCA 2023, she has further cemented her position as one of Nollywood's most talented and celebrated actresses.

The AMVCA, which stands for Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards, is an annual event that celebrates the best in African film and television.

The awards ceremony is scheduled to take place in Lagos, Nigeria, in the coming months.
A young Ghanaian boxer who was drowned in emotions whiles delivering his victory speech has caught the attention of netizens.

33-year-old Fred Gyimah popularly known as Freezy MacBones, won his match against British boxer, Darryl Sharp, at the Copper Box Arena in London.

But in spite of his stunning performance, the emotions expressed in his post-match interview was another highlight of the night.

Freezy MacBones was almost drawn to tears whiles recounting his struggles to stardom.

"I work hard toward my dream and I never gave up, never gave up never let anyone let me down. I push myself to the limit. I dont sleep I am running, 3am, 4am like a madman. People see me like what is this guy doing? Now, this is the answer to them. I am so proud of myself, my mum, my family out there they are watching me. I have made them proud. I came from nothing, where there is no light, no water. Come on bro there is God, he stated in an interview with Queensberry.

Scores of celebrities have reacted to MacBones victory and reaction in the said video which they claim is relatable.

The likes of Sarkodie , Stonebwoy , Edem, Flowkingstone, 50 cent, Floyd Mayweather and many others have expressed how the young boxers words and expression have inspired them.

Check out the posts below:


VGMA award winner Kuami Eugene has joined in and added his two cents on the issue of some guys parading themselves as look-alikes and mimicking some celebrities in Ghana.

Kuami Eugene in an interview on MX24 TV said hes a brand and a business entity so his lookalike should stop performing his songs on stage before it ends badly for him (the lookalike).

In those days people used to dress and act like the superstars they admire but I never saw one of them going on stage to go and perform his songs.

"Thats like maximum disrespect so its another story when you love the person and want to rep the person on social media but when it gets to a level when its becoming too much.

You see whats going on and youre enjoying it, thats why I said people are just selfish because hes enjoying that fame and that attention at this particular time nothing is stopping him.

Until the whole thing ends badly and then theyll regret it because Im a brand and a whole business and Ill just say trust me it looks good but if youre enjoying it wont last, Kuami Eugene stated.
17.04.2023 LISTEN

Ace Ghanaian female broadcaster Nana Adwoa Annan of Atinka TV has bagged another Masters Degree from the Ghana Institute of Journalism [GIJ].

The event was held on the universitys campus on Saturday, April 15, 2023.

The Atinka TV journalist who has diverse expertise in journalism, public relations, and marketing, decided to further her studies in media administration at the Ghana Institute of Journalism.

She now holds a Masters degree in Business Administration from the Methodist University, Diploma in journalism from the University of Media, Arts and Communication, and currently Media Administration from GIJ.

Prior to her graduation from GIJ, Nana Adwoa embarked on a tour of the BBC World Service offices in London where she acquainted herself with how the worlds leading broadcaster operates.

She toured the Bush House building before observing the editorial preparation for some of the flagship programs which are aired on the BBC.

The celebrated media personality was impressed with the output, describing the process of broadcasting at the BBC as an eye-opening experience.

Source: hotfmghana.com
18.04.2023 LISTEN

A renowned businessman based in Dunkwa-On-Offin in the Central Region, Dr Victor Kadri on Easter Friday, April 7 2023 donated food items worth over GHS100,000 to the less privileged in the seven regions across the country.

The regions are Central, Western North, Volta, Ashanti, Northern and Upper West.

Items such as 500 bags of rice, 500 boxes of edible oil and 500 boxes of sardines were separately distributed to the seven regions.

Presenting the items, Dr Kadri who was recently honoured by the Kingdom University College in Florida, United States of America urged Ghanaians to show love to the less privileged ones on occasions like Easter.

According to him, investing and helping the less privileged especially orphans is what pleases God most.

Dr Kadri entreated those with resources to establish businesses and create jobs for the youth to help improve lives.

A spokesperson for the beneficiaries of the items Madam Afia Frimpomaah thanked Dr Gadri for the kind gesture and appealed to NGOs, philanthropists and other corporate bodies to emulate the shining examples of Dr Kadri.
John Dramani Mahama, aspiring Presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has tasked supporters of the party to protect the ballot box and stop any moves to disrupt the polls on December 7, 2024.

Addressing branch and constituency executives in the Krachi East Municipality of the Oti Region, he advised them to work hard to defend and stay for the counting of votes.

Former President Mahama, who is seeking to lead the NDC said the party would be vigilant at the polling stations during the elections in 2024 calling for transparency at the end of the results.

He said lessons were learnt from the previous elections and therefore extra vigilance was what the party needed to annex power from the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

He tasked the constituency and regional executives to make commitment to run an effective campaign that would drill down to the branches and make available campaign materials and organization for them to work.

Mr Mahama, who is confident of becoming flagbearer of the NDC asked the delegates to support him and the party to win the 2024 elections after the presidential primaries.

He urged all parliamentary aspirants to unite after primaries for the NDC to win the elections.

He was accompanied on the tour by Professor Joshua Alabi, former NDC appointees, former MPs, former Ambassadors, some national executives, and the regional officers.

GNA
Ghana could run the risk of achieving its immunisation goals as a result of the rising emigration of the countrys health workforce. Advocates worry the problem will pose dire consequence to prevent needless suffering from preventable diseases and premature deaths.

Exodus for greener pastures

Richard Attandoh worked in Ghana for six months as a nurse and traveled to the UK to work for six years. He attributes the cause of health workers immigration to the foreign exchange rate. According to him, Nurses in Ghana prefer to work in the UK because the value of a pound is higher than that of a cedi.

Mr. Attandoh added that unlike Ghana, the UK has structures to address shortfalls. Compared to other professions, UK nurses are not paid well that is why they are unable to keep them and often rely on nurses from developing countries. Immediately a nurse leaves, someone is employed but in Ghana, it takes years to replace medical staff, he said.

Meanwhile, another Ghanaian nurse in the UK, Antoinette Ametefe stated that, there are better remuneration and opportunities to work extra hours for extra cash. Salaries are paid on time because our bills must be paid. Instruments and gadgets to work with are available and we dont need to improvise, she said.

Additionally, a Ghanaian nurse in the USA, Yaw Nyarko said, Working conditions here are much better as compared to Ghana. There are continuous efforts to improve on the welfare of nurses.

Just like anyone has the right to freedom of movement, nurses have this privilege too and foreign countries; Canada, USA, UK, Australia and Germany have now become the land full of boundless opportunities for healthcare providers coming from Ghana which ultimately affects service delivery to Ghanaians.

Unemployed graduate nurses

Arguably, people perceive that the shortfall of health workers is unforeseen since the various training schools churn out thousands of nurses yearly. The actual reality; it takes more than three years for trainees to be employed, whiles waiting, some give up and switch to other sectors of the economy.

In an interview with the International Womens Media Foundation (IWMF), the Public Relations Officer of the 2019 Referral batch of the Graduate Unemployed Nurses and Midwives Association, Georgina Kwakye said after series of protest to demand financial clearance and employment from the government of Ghana, over 8,000 of them still remain jobless, the trained nurses now survive on small businesses.

We feel pity to be called nurses in the sense that after all these kinds of training unless we go and do house-to-house homecare, fetch water for concrete works at construction sites and sell sachet water in traffic. Last year, our leaders told us that the rate at which nurses were leaving the country was too much. They asked that we stay and work in Ghana. We were told that in 2021 more than 3,000 nurses left Ghana, their places are now vacant why cant we be employed? When the opportunity comes, I will leave Ghana to work elsewhere, she said.

Repercussions of health workers shortfall

Recently, in the World Health Organization (WHO) Health Workforce Support and Safeguards List 2023, globally, Ghana was among 55 countries facing the most pressing health workforce challenges related to universal health coverage. The report identified the disruptions caused to health services by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the effects on health worker mobility and migration as major reasons.

Furthermore, WHO in 2014 projected 6.1 million shortage of health workers in Africa by 2030, a 45% increase from 2013. The WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, said, The severe shortage of health workers in Africa has daunting implications.

The success of any immunisation programme depends on the availability of skilled workforce, thus, qualified medical practitioners who understand; importance of vaccines, vaccine storage, vaccine inoculation, complication management and public health education. In Ghana, majority of these roles are performed by preventive health workers; community health nurses, public health nurses and disease control officers.

Meanwhile, the Technical Officer in charge of immunisation at the WHO Ghana Country Office, Fred Osei-Sarpong in an interview with IWMF said, Looking at our population and the number of our health workforce, I wouldnt say we have enough. Specifically, there are public health physician specialists whose primary responsibility is to support the development of strategies and health activities at the regional and national levels however, some districts in Ghana do not have them.

Currently, the West African nation has over 120,000 nurses and midwives yet on daily basis, the health sector faces unchecked emigration of professionals. Medical personnel abandon their post, travel out of their homeland country in search of fortunes.

The Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association confirmed that within a period of two years over 6,000 Ghanaian nurses have migrated to other countries whiles 14,000 nurses have also applied for financial clearance with the intention to leave their posts. In 2019, the Association alerted the government on the dangers associated with the increasing migration on health services but, till date, their recommendations are yet to see the light of day.

Migration implications on Immunisation

Even though Ghana has made some progress in routine immunisation, in instances where experienced health human resources are absent, people suffer from diseases. A former Medical Director of the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, Dr. Thomas Winsum Anabah believes unimpeded exodus of health professionals will negatively impact Ghanas immunisation goals.

Migration will definitely cause a reduction in the number of people who will be vaccinated and decrease the quality of an on-going immunisation programme. It is not all who can handle vaccines, those who work around it know how to store them. When there is a problem with it, they know how to put it back into the fridge and dispose-off. Furthermore, they encourage mothers to accept vaccines even though sometimes it is painful to the kids and advise them on ways to handle complications like high temperature, swollen legs etc. Losing specialists like this will reduce the rate at which kids get vaccinated and this will then cause an outbreak of preventable diseases, he said.

Shortage of childhood vaccines



A nurse on duty

The Ghana Coalition of NGOs in Health, a registered umbrella body for all civil society organisations operating in the health sector frequently holds medical outreach in rural communities across the country. The Executive Director of the Rural Project Support Network, Ghana Coalition of NGOs in Health, Felicia Sosu said, When it comes to immunisation, we have enough nurses who are always ready to assist us. We were overwhelmed by the number of nurses who graced our recent outreach held at Afadjato in the Volta region of Ghana. The only problem is inadequate vaccines, at times, when we visit the field, there will be no syringes and vaccines. Our beneficiaries get disappointed whenever it happens, so, we apologize to them, postpone the exercise and wait till we are supplied with vaccines.

Poor conditions of service

The Professional Association for all categories of nurses; the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) is the mouthpiece for nurses and midwives in issues affecting the profession. The association with over 93,000 members continually speaks against the poor working conditions of its members. The General Secretary of GRNMA, Dr. David Tenkorang-Twum in an interview bitterly lamented that nurses do not have access to free medical care. They use their own monies to pay for health services even within the hospitals they work, he said.

According to Dr. Tenkorang-Twum, nurses and midwives do not receive any allowances, they solely live on their basic salaries which is nothing to write home about. Also, since 2013, a component of their salaries; market premium was cut off.

Aside of the meagre monthly wages amidst the high cost of living, it takes between three to twelve months for a newly employed nurse to earn a pay. A nurse at the Cape Coast Metropolitan hospital said, The backbone of the health fraternity is nurses but we are the ones suffering the most, being a nurse in Ghana is worthless.

Nurses in public hospital are forced to improvised due to constraints on resources. In this country, limited logistics make the work of nurses stressful, a Nursing Officer in the capital city of Accra said.

Inadequate funds & opportunities

Ghanas leading biomedical research facility, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR) of the University of Ghana, Legon, conducts innovative research into communicable and non-communicable diseases. Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic for instance, NMIMR did series of study including a comparative assessment of immunology responses to different Covid-19 vaccines. Moreover, the Institute played significant role in testing of samples from various health institutions in the country and sub-region. An undisclosed source at the Institute hinted that researchers battle fund and logistic difficulties.

We have inadequate laboratory equipment and accessing grants for projects is a big problem, they are too competitive. Personally, we have to search for training and mentorship opportunities funded by external agencies. Obviously, there is absolutely no motivation for research in this country, she said.

UK red list health workers recruitment

On the other hand, in the UKs revised code of practice for international recruitment of health and social care personnel, Ghana was red list for medical workers recruitment in the UK. According to, Dr. Tenkorang-Twum, the ban has less impact on solving Ghanas health workforce mobility. People are not actively recruiting nurses to the UK, the nurses are rather leaving by themselves and nobody can stop them, he said.

Way forward

Authorities cannot continue to turn a blind eye to migration implications on immunisation. Dr. Anabah said, There must be bilateral agreement between the developed countries and Ghana so that even if we have to export staff to them, it must be accepted on the principles of barter trade whereby, if we are giving you staff, give us resources to train more people. Just like what Cuba has done, you cant just go to Cuba to get a doctor out of the country. There is some kind of agreement between the Government of Cuba and the country which is taking the doctors.

Likewise, we can increase salaries but we cant challenge the developed countries in conditions of service. The government should therefore improve on living conditions and infrastructure, he said.

Similarly, GRNMA wants government to be intentional in addressing the poor working conditions of nurses and as a matter of urgency institute insurance policies for them. Dr. Tenkorang-Twum said, I see no reason why if I work in the hospital, myself and my family must pay for medical services.

Speaking on effective staff retention policies, the former Technical Director of the USAID Human Resources for Health in 2030 (HRH2030) Program, Rachel Deussom said, There are four recommendations on ways to retain health workers; educating them appropriately, establishing effective working regulations, providing financial incentives and professional support. When working conditions are good for the satisfaction of the health worker, it shows how effective they are on the job.

In addition to this, the Director of Advocacy and Outreach, Vaccine Acceptance and Demand of the Sabin Vaccine, Vince Blaser suggested that whiles implementing long-term support for healthcare workers, the creation of an interim two-way feedback loop will contribute significantly to bridging the gap between medical professionals and policy-makers.

It appears Ghana is not the only country experiencing an increased migration of health workers. The Frontline Health Workers Coalition an alliance organisation of IntraHealth International, stated that nurses in East Africa; Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya also travel abroad to work. The Senior Advocacy and Policy Advisor, David Bryden said investing in Ghanas health workforce to achieve immunisation goals demands fostering stronger partnerships with relevant organisations to address critical needs of healthcare workers.

On March 2, 2023, the Ministry of Health in a virtual event, launched a 5-year Public Health Workforce Strategic Plan. The document presents a roadmap that guides restructuring of the human resource of the public health workforce and ensures that the Universal Health Coverage target is fully achieved, using the One Health Concept by 2030. The Deputy Minister of Health, Tina Gifty Mensah said, The document would support in addressing some weaknesses in the health workforce, particularly recruitment, workforce distribution, staff development, employee motivation and employee migration.

This reporting was supported by the International Womens Media Foundations Global Health Reporting Initiative: Vaccines and Immunization in Africa.

The writer is a journalist.

E-mail: [email protected]
WASHINGTON (AP)  The government's response to the failure of two large banks has already involved hundreds of billions of dollars. So will ordinary Americans end up paying for it, one way or another? And what will the price tag be?

It could be months before the answers are fully known. The Biden administration said it will guarantee uninsured deposits at both banks. The Federal Reserve announced a new lending program for all banks that need to borrow money to pay for withdrawals.

On Thursday, the Fed provided the first glimpse of the scale of the response: It said banks had borrowed about $300 billion in emergency funding in the past week, with nearly half that amount going to holding companies for the two failed banks to pay depositors. The Fed did not say how many other banks borrowed money and added that it expects the loans to be repaid.

The goal is to prevent a broadening panic in which customers rush to pull out so much money that even healthy banks buckle. That scenario would unsettle the entire financial system and risk derailing the economy.

Taxpayers will probably bear no direct cost for the failure of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank. But other banks may have to help defray the cost of covering uninsured deposits. Over time, those banks could pass higher costs on to customers, forcing everyone to pay more for services.

Here are some questions and answers about the cost of the bank collapses:

HOW IS THE RESPONSE BEING PAID FOR?

Most of the cost of guaranteeing all deposits at both banks will likely be covered by the proceeds the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. receives from winding down the two banks  either by selling them to other financial institutions or by auctioning off their assets.

Any costs beyond that would be paid for out of the FDIC's deposit insurance fund, which is typically used in the event of a bank failure to reimburse depositors for up to $250,000 per account. The fund is maintained with fees paid by participating banks.

Both Silicon Valley and Signature banks had a strikingly high share of deposits above that amount: 94% of Silicon Valley's deposits were uninsured, as were 90% of deposits at Signature. The average figure for large banks is about half that level.

If necessary, the insurance fund will be replenished by a "special assessment" on banks, the FDIC, Fed and Treasury said in a joint statement. Though the cost of that assessment could ultimately be borne by bank customers, it's not clear how much money would be involved.

Kathryn Judge, a law professor at Columbia University, said a bigger cost to consumers and the economy could stem from potentially major changes to the financial system that result from this episode.

If all customer deposits were considered guaranteed by the government, formally or informally, then regulations would need to be strengthened to prevent bank failures or lessen their costs when they do happen. Banks might have to pay permanently higher fees to the FDIC.

"It's going to require us to revisit the entire bank regulatory framework," Judge said. "That's far more significant than the modest costs that other banks will pay."

WILL TAXPAYERS BE ON THE HOOK?

President Joe Biden has insisted that no taxpayer money will be used to resolve the crisis. The White House is desperate to avoid any perception that average Americans are "bailing out" the two banks in a way similar to the highly unpopular bailouts of the biggest financial firms during the 2008 financial crisis.

"No losses associated with the resolution of Silicon Valley Bank will be borne by the taxpayer," read the joint statement from the Treasury, Fed and FDIC.

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen defended that view Thursday under tough questioning from GOP lawmakers.

The Fed's lending program to help banks pay depositors is backed by $25 billion of taxpayer funds that would cover any losses on the loans. But the Fed says it's unlikely that the money will be needed because the loans will be backed by Treasury bonds and other safe securities as collateral.

Even if taxpayers aren't directly on the hook, some economists say the banks' customers still stand to benefit from government support.

"Saying that the taxpayer won't pay anything ignores the fact that providing insurance to somebody who didn't pay for insurance is a gift," said Anil Kashyap, an economics professor at the University of Chicago. "And that's kind of what happened."

SO IS THIS A BAILOUT?

Biden and other Democrats in Washington deny that their actions amount to a bailout of any kind.

"It's not a bailout as happened in 2008," Sen. Richard Blumenthal, a Democrat from Connecticut, said this week while proposing legislation to toughen bank regulation. "It is, in effect, protection of depositors and a preventive measure to stop a run on other banks all around the country."

Biden has stressed that the banks' managers will be fired and their investors will not be protected. Both banks will cease to exist. In the 2008 crisis, some financial institutions that received government financial aid, like the insurer AIG, were rescued from near-certain bankruptcy.

Yet many economists say the depositors at Silicon Valley Bank, which included wealthy venture capitalists and tech startups, are still receiving government help.

"Why is it sensible capitalism for somebody to take a risk, and then be protected from that risk when that risk actually happens?" asked Raghuram Rajan, a finance professor at the University of Chicago and former head of India's central bank. "It's probably good for the short term in the sense that you don't have a widespread panic. ... But it is problematic for the system long term."

Many Republicans on Capitol Hill argue that smaller community banks and their customers will shoulder some of the cost.

Banks in rural Oklahoma "are about to pay a special fee to be able to bail out millionaires in San Francisco," Sen. James Lankford, a Republican from Oklahoma, said on the Senate floor.

___

8 charts tracking the US economy
17.04.2023 LISTEN

Former Chairman of the ruling New Patriotic Party NPP in the Fomena Constituency of the Ashanti Region, Mr Kwasi Nti has confirmed receiving Gh1million from the Assin Central Member of Parliament Hon Kennedy Agyapong.

According to him, Hon Kennedy Agyapong single-handedly save the NPP from losing the Independent Member of Parliament for Fomena to the opposition National Democratic Congress NDC after the NPP failed to pay him the money they promised.

"The NPP promised me Gh1million cedis to step down as the party's chairman after the Fomena MP demand my resignation," he stated.

Speaking on the Kumasi based OTEC 102.9 FM's afternoon Political show Dwabrem on Monday, Mr Kwasi Nti said he demanded some Gh2million from the party to settle a debt he incurred as the party's chairman before he officially steps down

"I was hesitant to give in to their demands after several calls on me because the NPP did not fulfil the promise they made, even after my resignation they still did not give me the amount they pledged ", he told the programmes host Dr Cash.

He added, "It took the aspiring presidential candidate of the NPP Hon Kennedy Agyapong to privately give me Gh 1Million to defray my debt and I can assure you this gesture saved the NPP from major legal tussle."

His revelation comes after Hon Kennedy Agyapong mentioned the issue.

The NPP stalwart interacting with some party delegates at Tema disclosed the role he played for the party to be the majority in Parliament.

Kennedy Agyapong said, he had to settle a debt of one million Ghana cedis owed by the then Constituency Chairman of Fomena before the party got the majority.

Mr Kwasi reacting to the news thanked Hon Kennedy Agyapong for the role he played to help the party from gaining majority in Parliament.
Former President John Dramani Mahama Monday called on the Government to take full responsibility for the economic hardship Ghanaians are facing and focus on expenditure reduction.

Ghana is currently on her knees for a bailout with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) amidst intensifying hardships, rising cost of living and a depreciating cedi, he said.

Mr Mahama, contesting the flagbearer position of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), was addressing party executives in the Krachi East Constituency on his campaign tour.

He urged the Government to focus on social intervention programmes and reduce expenditure, taking into consideration that the present IMF programme would be different from all bailouts the country had ever engaged in.

This will be the first of its kind the nation embarks on an IMF programme with debts restructure.

He said the NDC's greater concern was that the Government rejected every reasonable and constructive suggestion from others on working together for economic improvement.

Government must stop blaming the Ukraine-Russia war for the economic hardship in the country and explain the exact challenges to the citizenry,'' he said.

Former President Mahama is expected to visit Krachi, Nkwanta North, Nkwanta South and end his campaign tour at the Akan Constituency in the Kadjebi District.

GNA
Fighting between the army and paramilitaries in Sudan has killed around 200 people and wounded 1,800, left hospitals damaged and medical supplies and food in short supply Monday after three days of urban warfare.

A weeks-long power struggle exploded into deadly violence Saturday between the forces of two generals who seized power in a 2021 coup, Sudan's army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his deputy, Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who commands the powerful paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Analysts say the fighting in the capital of the chronically unstable country is unprecedented and could be prolonged, despite regional and global calls for a ceasefire as diplomats mobilise.

Battles have also taken place throughout the vast country, and there are fears of regional spillover.

Terrified residents of the capital are spending the last and holiest days of Ramadan watching from their windows as tanks roll through the streets, buildings shake, and smoke from fires triggered by the fighting hangs in the air.

The conflict has seen air strikes, artillery and heavy gunfire.

People queue for bread outside a bakery in Khartoum. By - (AFP)

Those compelled to venture out face queues for bread and petrol at outlets which are not shuttered. Residents are also dealing with power outages.

Volker Perthes, the head of the United Nations mission to Sudan, told the Security Council in a closed-door session, that at least 185 people have been killed and another 1,800 wounded.

"It's a very fluid situation so it's very difficult to say where the balance is shifting to," Perthes told reporters after the meeting.

Earlier Monday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres again called on Sudan's warring parties to "immediately cease hostilities". He warned that further escalation "could be devastating for the country and the region."

Vital aid suspended

Medics in Sudan had earlier given a death toll of nearly 100 civilians and "dozens" of fighters from both sides, but the number of casualties was thought to be far higher, with many wounded unable to reach hospitals.

The official doctors' union warned fighting had "heavily damaged" multiple hospitals in Khartoum and other cities, with some completely "out of service".

This file picture composite shows General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan (L), in Khartoum's twin city of Omdurman on June 29, 2019 and Sudanese paramilitary commander Mohamed Hamdan Daglo in Khartoum on June 18, 2019. By Yasuyoshi CHIBA, Ashraf SHAZLY (AFP)

The World Health Organization had already warned that several of Khartoum's nine hospitals receiving injured civilians "have run out of blood, transfusion equipment, intravenous fluids and other vital supplies".

In the western region of Darfur, international medical aid organisation Doctors Without Borders (MSF) reported receiving 136 wounded patients at the only hospital in El Fasher still operating in North Darfur state.

"The majority of the wounded are civilians who were caught in the crossfire -- among them are many children," MSF's Cyrus Paye said.

Due to limited surgical capacity, "11 people died from their injuries in the first 48 hours of the conflict."

Three UN World Food Programme staff were also among those killed, on Saturday in Darfur, where humanitarian missions have had medical and other supplies looted, according to Save the Children and MSF.

A number of organisations have temporarily suspended operations, in a country where one-third of the population needs aid.

Trading blame

Diplomatic manoeuvres seemed to ramp up Monday, as the fighting showed no signs of abating.

Influential northern neighbour Egypt announced it had discussed with Saudi Arabia, South Sudan and Djibouti -- all close allies of Sudan -- "the need to make every effort to preserve stability and safety".

Sudan: increasing need for aid. By Nalini LEPETIT-CHELLA, Paz PIZARRO (AFP)

The Gulf emirate Qatar spoke to African Union commission head Moussa Faki Mahamat, who is planning to "immediately" undertake a ceasefire mission.

There are, however, no more civilian flights arriving in Khartoum, where fighting has damaged aircraft.

On Twitter Daglo called on the international community to intervene against Burhan, branding him a "radical Islamist who is bombing civilians from the air".

"We will continue to pursue Al-Burhan and bring him to justice," said Daglo, whose RSF and its predecessor the Janjaweed in Darfur have previously been accused of atrocities and war crimes.

Army statements call the RSF "a rebel militia" intent on "engaging near populated areas".

Smoke billows behind residential buildings in eastern Khartoum on the third day of fighting. By - (AFP)

The fighting broke out after bitter disagreements between Burhan and Daglo over the planned integration of the RSF into the regular army -- a key condition for a final deal aimed at ending a crisis since the 2021 coup, which derailed a transition to democracy.

Both claim to be in control of key sites, including the airport and the presidential palace -- none of which could be independently verified.

On Monday, the army resumed broadcasting on state TV.

The few grocery stores remaining open warned they will only last a few days if no supplies can enter the city.

Witnesses noted militiamen had begun driving past in private passenger vehicles with no licence plates.

While Sudan has endured decades of multiple bitter civil wars, coups and rebellions since independence, Sudanese analyst Kho lood Khair said the level of fighting inside the capital was "unprecedented".

The generals' coup derailed a transition to civilian rule following the 2019 ouster of strongman Omar all-Bashir, triggering international aid cuts and sparking near-weekly protests met by a deadly crackdown.
Rached Ghannouchi, one of the main opponents of Tunisian President Kais Saied, has been arrested, his Ennahdha party said on Monday, the latest in a string of opposition figures held.

Ghannouchi, 81, whose party was the largest in parliament before Saied dissolved the chamber in July 2021, was arrested by police at his Tunis home and taken "to an unknown location," the Islamist-inspired Ennahdha said in a statement.

"Ennahdha denounces this extremely serious development and calls for the immediate release of Rached Ghannouchi," the statement added.

Tunisian authorities did not immediately comment on the arrest.

It came after media reports in which he allegedly said Tunisia would be threatened with "civil war" if political Islam, from which his party originated, were eradicated there.

Since early February, authorities in the North African country have arrested more than 20 political opponents and personalities.

They have included politicians, former ministers, businessmen, trade unionists and the owner of Tunisia's most popular radio station, Mosaique FM.

Saied, 65, claims those detained were "terrorists" involved in a "conspiracy against state security".

Local and international rights groups have criticised the arrests.

Ghannouchi was the speaker of Tunisia's parliament before Saied dissolved it and went on to seize wide-reaching powers through a series of moves dubbed by opponents as a "coup".

He also appeared in court at the end of February on terror-related charges after being accused of calling police officers "tyrants".

And he had already been in court last November over allegations that his party had helped jihadists travel to Iraq and Syria.

Prior to that he was interrogated over alleged money laundering in relation to foreign donations for an Ennahdha-linked charity.

Opponents of Saied accuse him of reinstating autocratic rule in Tunisia, which was the only democracy to emerge from the Arab Spring uprisings in the Middle East region more than a decade ago.

After his dramatic power grab he has since ruled by decree, and last year rammed through a constitution giving his office unlimited powers and neutering parliament.

Ghannouchi was exiled for more than two decades under late dictator Zine El Abidine Ali, but had returned following the country's 2011 uprising to become a dominant figure in Tunisian politics.

Ennahdha played a central role in Tunisia's post-Ben Ali democratic politics until Saied began his power grab.
The business community in the country has expressed anger over news that President Akufo-Addo has assented to three new revenue bills approved by Parliament, despite resistance from Ghanaians.

The business groups made up of GUTA, AGI and the importers and exporters association petitioned the president on the matter after Parliament passed the revenue mobilization bills.

They lament that the plight of businesses will be further compounded if the tax laws are implemented.

Speaking to Citi Business News, the Executive Secretary of the Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana, Asaki Awingobit expressed disappointment at the President for ignoring the suffering of the business community.

We are completely disappointed at the President for signing the bills into law despite our protest. This government promised to be friendly to the business community but unfortunately has shown nothing like that. This government has lost touch with the business community.

It's unfortunate the President has gone ahead to sign the bills without recourse to the business community. The business community has faced challenges these past years, but the President cares little about it, and it is very unfortunate.

By Citi Newsroom
Rached Ghannouchi, one of the main opponents of Tunisian President Kais Saied, has been arrested, his Ennahdha party said Monday, the latest in a string of opposition figures held.

Ghannouchi, 81, whose party was the largest in parliament before Saied dissolved the chamber in July 2021, was arrested by police at his home in Tunis, the Islamist-inspired Ennahdha said in a statement.

"Ennahdha denounces this extremely serious development and calls for the immediate release of Rached Ghannouchi," the statement said.

Ennahdha vice-president Mondher Lounissi told a press conference that Ghannouchi had been taken to a police barracks for questioning and that his lawyers had not been allowed to attend.

His arrest came after media reports in which he allegedly said Tunisia would be threatened with "civil war" if political Islam, from which his party originated, were eradicated there.

A source at the interior ministry quoted by Tunisian media confirmed that Ghannouchi's arrest was linked to these statements.

Tunisian security forces' vehicles outside the home of Rached Ghannouchi, who his Ennahdha party said was arrested. By FETHI BELAID (AFP)

Since early February, authorities in the North African country have arrested more than 20 political opponents and personalities.

They have included politicians, former ministers, businessmen, trade unionists and the owner of Tunisia's most popular radio station, Mosaique FM.

Saied, 65, claims those detained were "terrorists" involved in a "conspiracy against state security".

Local and international rights groups have criticised the arrests, which targeted leading figures of the National Salvation Front (FSN), the main opposition coalition, which includes Ennahdha.

'Blind revenge'

"The arrest of the leader of the most important political party in the country, and who has always shown his commitment to peaceful political action, marks a new phase in the crisis," FSN head Ahmed Nejib Chebbi told AFP late Monday.

"This is blind revenge against opponents," he added.

Ghannouchi was the speaker of Tunisia's parliament before Saied dissolved it and went on to seize wide-reaching powers through a series of moves opponents have dubbed a "coup".

He also appeared in court at the end of February on terror-related charges after being accused of calling police officers "tyrants".

Ghannouchi had already been in court last November over allegations his party had helped jihadists travel to Iraq and Syria.

Before that, he was interrogated over alleged money laundering in relation to foreign donations for an Ennahdha-linked charity.

Opponents of Saied accuse him of reinstating autocratic rule in Tunisia, which was the only democracy to emerge from the Arab Spring uprisings in the Middle East region more than a decade ago.

After his dramatic power grab, he has since ruled by decree, and last year rammed through a constitution that gave his office unlimited powers and neutered parliament.

Ghannouchi was exiled for more than two decades under late dictator Zine El Abidine Ali, but returned following the country's 2011 uprising to become a dominant figure in Tunisian politics.

But his star has gradually faded, with his detractors accusing him of being a master pragmatist who would do anything to stay in power.

While unable to gather an absolute majority, he has always managed to ensure that Ennahdha remained essential in the various coalitions since the uprising.
G7 foreign ministers on Tuesday urged warring forces in Sudan to "end hostilities immediately" and return to negotiations, after days of fighting that has killed almost 200 people and wounded 1,800.

A weeks-long power struggle in the north African country exploded into deadly violence Saturday between the forces of two generals who seized power in a 2021 coup: army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his deputy, Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who commands the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

"We urge the parties to end hostilities immediately without pre-conditions," the G7 foreign ministers meeting in Japan said in a statement.

They warned the fighting "threatens the security and safety of Sudanese civilians and undermines efforts to restore Sudan's democratic transition".

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said he had spoken with the two generals and "underscored the urgent need for a ceasefire".

Map locating clashes in Sudan from April 15 to April 17, as of 1130 GMT. By Sophie RAMIS, Sylvie HUSSON, Emmanuelle MICHEL (AFP)

"Too many civilian lives have already been lost," Blinken tweeted, adding he had "stressed the importance of ensuring the safety of diplomatic personnel and aid workers".

Following the call, Daglo said in a tweet that the pair had "discussed pressing issues in Sudan", adding he was grateful for the US's "commitment to restoring stability in Sudan".

Blinken also confirmed a US diplomatic convoy had been fired upon on Monday, though those inside were unharmed, in what he called a "reckless" act.

In a separate incident, the European Union's ambassador to Sudan was attacked in his home in Khartoum on Monday, the bloc's top diplomat Josep Borrell said. A spokesperson told AFP the veteran diplomat was "OK" following the assault.

Terrified residents

Analysts say the fighting in the capital is unprecedented and could be prolonged, despite regional and global calls for a ceasefire as diplomats mobilise.

Battles have taken place throughout the vast country and there are fears of regional spillover of the conflict that has seen air strikes, artillery and heavy gunfire.

Terrified residents of Khartoum are spending the last and holiest days of Ramadan watching from their windows as tanks roll through the streets, buildings shake and smoke from fires triggered by the fighting hangs in the air.

People queue for bread outside a bakery in Khartoum. By - (AFP)

Those compelled to venture out face queues for bread and petrol at outlets that are not shuttered. Residents are also dealing with power outages.

Volker Perthes, the head of the UN mission to Sudan, told the Security Council in a closed-door session Monday that at least 185 people had been killed and another 1,800 wounded.

"It's a very fluid situation so it's very difficult to say where the balance is shifting to," Perthes told reporters after the meeting.

Medics in Sudan had earlier given a death toll of nearly 100 civilians and "dozens" of fighters from both sides, but the number of casualties was thought to be far higher, with many wounded unable to reach hospitals.

This file picture composite shows General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan (L), in Khartoum's twin city of Omdurman on June 29, 2019 and Sudanese paramilitary commander Mohamed Hamdan Daglo in Khartoum on June 18, 2019. By Yasuyoshi CHIBA, Ashraf SHAZLY (AFP)

The official doctors' union warned fighting had "heavily damaged" multiple hospitals in Khartoum and other cities, with some completely "out of service".

The World Health Organization warned that several Khartoum hospitals "have run out of blood, transfusion equipment, intravenous fluids and other vital supplies".

In the western region of Darfur, international medical aid organisation Doctors Without Borders (MSF) reported receiving 136 wounded patients at the only hospital in El Fasher still operating in North Darfur state.

"The majority of the wounded are civilians who were caught in the crossfire -- among them are many children," MSF's Cyrus Paye said.

Due to limited surgical capacity, "11 people died from their injuries in the first 48 hours of the conflict".

Call for talks

Sudan: increasing need for aid. By Nalini LEPETIT-CHELLA, Paz PIZARRO (AFP)

Three UN World Food Programme staff were also among those killed on Saturday in Darfur, where humanitarian missions have had medical and other supplies looted, according to Save the Children and MSF.

A number of organisations have temporarily suspended operations in the country, where one-third of the population needs aid.

"This renewed fighting only aggravates what was already a fragile situation, forcing UN agencies and our humanitarian partners to temporarily shutter many of our more than 250 programmes across Sudan," said UN emergency relief coordinator Martin Griffiths.

Smoke billows behind residential buildings in eastern Khartoum on the third day of fighting. By - (AFP)

Influential northern neighbour Egypt said it had discussed with Saudi Arabia, South Sudan and Djibouti -- all close allies of Sudan -- "the need to make every effort to preserve stability and safety".

President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi called on the two sides to "return to the negotiating table" and said he was working on the return of Egyptian military "trainers" captured Saturday at an air base by RSF forces.

There are no more civilian flights arriving in Khartoum, where fighting has damaged aircraft.

Democracy derailed

On Twitter, Daglo earlier called on the international community to intervene against Burhan, branding him a "radical Islamist who is bombing civilians from the air".

"We will continue to pursue Al-Burhan and bring him to justice," said Daglo, whose RSF and its predecessor the Janjaweed in Darfur have previously been accused of atrocities and war crimes.

Army statements call the RSF "a rebel militia" intent on "engaging near populated areas".

The fighting broke out after bitter disagreements between Burhan and Daglo over the planned integration of the RSF into the regular army -- a key condition for a final deal aimed at ending a crisis since the 2021 coup, which derailed a transition to democracy.

Both claim to be in control of key sites, including the airport and the presidential palace -- none of which could be independently verified.

On Monday, the army resumed broadcasting on state TV.
Member of Parliament for the Tamale South constituency, Haruna Iddrisu is unhappy that toilet cubicles have been converted into accommodation facilities for students at Ghana Senior High School in Tamale.

The former Minority Leader in an April 17 statement described the development as unfortunate and called for further investigations to ascertain the truth of the matter.

Videos of students of the school using the toilet cubicles as sleeping areas went viral over the weekend and caused public outrage.

It resulted in the Ghana Education Service (GES) indicting the headmaster of the school, Doughlas Haruna Yakubu who denied the reports and described it as mischievous and a deliberate misrepresentation of facts.

Haruna Iddrisu under whose constituency GHANASCO is sited endorsed the decision of the Ghana Education Service (GES) to institute an independent inquiry and said he will visit the school to ascertain the situation for himself.

Read the MPs statement below:

My attention has been drawn to a viral video purporting to be emanating from the Ghana Senior High School (GHANASCO), Tamale, in the Tamale South Constituency.

The narration in the said video alleged that toilet cubicles have been converted into accommodation facilities for students of the School. The conditions in the purported video, if true, are unfortunate and disappointing.

I, therefore, support the decision by the Ghana Education Service (GES) to institute an independent inquiry into the matter in order to give assurance to parents and the general public about the safety and wellbeing of students of the School. Whiles keenly awaiting the report from the investigation, I call on Government, the GES and the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) to take a comprehensive review of the infrastructure requirements and other complimentary facilities needed to support effective teaching and learning in School.

I shall be visiting the School as Member of Parliament for the Tamale South Constituency, to ascertain things for myself.

citinewsroom
The Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) is demanding an retraction and an unqualified apology from the second deputy speaker of parliament, Joseph Osei-Owusu for what the association describes as unsavory comments against its members.

GUTA in a statement said Mr Osei-Owusu in an interview on Kumasi-based Oyerepa TV, accused them of disloyalty and exploitation of Ghanaians.

According to GUTA, the lawmaker implied traders are thieves who are ripping off Ghanaians and should be blamed for the hike in prices and not the taxes introduced by the government.

GUTA reacting to the accusations in a statement said it is a union of patriotic and honest members of Ghanaian business community and as equal stakeholder in the economy, GUTA has every right to voice its concerns on all national issues especially when it comes to the national economy.

The statement noted that most members of the trading community are more intelligent, educated, knowledgeable and resourceful than the lawmaker but for the privilege he has, he should have known better and be mindful of his utterances and speak with decorum in order not to subject himself to public ridicule and insults.

GUTA further indicated that Mr Osei-Owusus assertion that traders are the cause of the high prices of goods in markets in not only infantile but also diabolical.

The traders are challenging the First Deputy Speaker to produce the list of all taxes imposed by government at the port and beyond including all fees and charges as well as charges for utilities (electricity and water), fuel taxes as well, for all Ghanaians to known who is exploiting the consumer.

Source: Classfmonline.com
18.04.2023 LISTEN

Security Analyst Dr Adam Bonaa has said the military should not be included in the core security taskforce for the 2024 general elections.

He said they should just be on standby for support if need be.

They should not be part of the core tasksforce for the elections, they should be on standby, he said on the Big Issue on TV3 Tuesday April 18.

Dr Bonaa was commenting on the meeting that the Police held with the leadership of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) on Monday.

The meeting which was called at the instance of the Inspector-General of Police was necessitated by press statements issued by the parties and subsequently followed by petitions to the Police Service with each party calling on the Police to arrest certain individuals of the other side for some alleged offences.

At the meeting, both parties were given the opportunity to air their grievances.

The main issue raised by them was in respect to comments by some political actors from both sides of the divide considered to be inflammatory.

The Police told the leadership of NDC and the NPP not to interfere with their job.

The Police said in a statement after a meeting with the leadership of the two parties that they should do their politics and allow the Police to do policing. We therefore called on them to support us including by criticising us constructively to do a professional job in line with our constitutional mandate.

As we commend the leadership of the two political parties for availing themselves and contributing to the success of the meeting, we would like to call on Ghanaians to help us in our effort to build an independent Police service which will serve the greater good of the Ghanaian people and not the interest of any individual or group of people.

Once again, we wish to assure the public that we remain committed to ensuring peace, security, law and order in the country at all times including before, during and after all elections in the country, the statement said.

3news.com
April 18, 2023

Progressive candidates get better at the political game

Progressive candidates running without the endorsement of the Democratic Party have not had much success in recent years securing an office in Buffalo City Hall.

In 2019, five new candidates filed papers to run for the Buffalo Common Council. None were successful and three were thrown off the ballot because of a paperwork error.

Two years later, when India B. Walton shocked the city by defeating Mayor Byron W. Brown in the Democratic primary for mayor, she also planned to appear on the Working Families line. But a technicality denied her the line despite the party's endorsement. Walton blamed Erie County Democratic Chairman Jeremy Zellner, who said Walton failed to follow the law.

Perhaps that's why this year  as another slate of left-leaning candidates attempt to gain a seat on the Council  Walton, Kathryn Franco and Eve Shippens aren't taking any chances. They had their paperwork in order and were among the first in the county to submit designating petitions to the Board of Elections.

"We filed early because we do have our ducks in a row," Franco said in a recent interview. "We were ready to file. We knew what to do and we were ready to say, Were here."

Franco, a social worker, is trying again to win the University District seat after losing to incumbent Council Member Rasheed N.C. Wyatt four years ago. She acknowledged that the petition process caught her and other first-time candidates off guard.

"Its wild to see how un-Democratic something like petitioning and then challenging those petitions can be," she said. "And how you dont really know about it until you do it."

Shippens, a schoolteacher who worked for Walton's mayoral campaign, is facing endorsed North District Council Member Joe Golombek. She points out that only 16 women have served on the Council since its inception in 1832. The last was Bonnie Russell in 2014 and the current Council is comprised of nine men. Shippens said she wants to make the electoral process more open to grassroots candidates outside of the party machines.

"Its a lot of information thats being gatekept," Shippens said. "Its about making sure this process is fair and accessible."

Already this year, Walton faces challenges relating to her residency in the district, including one from a supporter of Zeneta Everhart, her opponent in the Masten District. She disputes the suggestion that progressive candidates were unprepared the first time around. But Walton said her time after the mayoral election working for the Working Families party made her more savvy about the political process.

"It isnt that we didnt do it right the first time," Walton said. "We are equipped to do it better."

 Charlie Specht

At the county level, some rare bipartisanship

Democratic Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz and Republican Sheriff John Garcia come from different political parties, but theyve found a pragmatic way to work together to further their joint interests.

Normally that wouldnt be news, but given the distant and difficult relationship Poloncarz shared with Garcias predecessor, Timothy Howard, its quite a change.

Ive had my fights with Sheriff Howard in the past, Poloncarz said in a recent meeting with The Buffalo News' Editorial Board. Most of the stuff has never been seen in public, but weve had our brawls behind the scenes. Sheriff Garcia and I are on different terms. We dont see everything eye to eye, but he definitely has been a breath of fresh air.

As a result, Garcia has been successful in his push to add dozens of new jobs to the Sheriffs Office, with the majority in jail staffing to cut down on forced overtime. The two men complimented each other on their handling of the December blizzard. And last week, Poloncarz announced his support to build a new, unified county jail facility to replace the two existing and aging ones  a huge priority for Garcia.

Not all of Poloncarzs supporters like that. He had anti-jail protesters outside the Central Library on Thursday, where he was giving his State of the County address. But Poloncarz, who is running for re-election, isnt interested in making himself an easy target for people who may want to accuse him of ignoring public safety.

Garcia, meanwhile, says hes a cop, not a politician, at heart.

I dont think about politics at all, he said. Im so busy being the sheriff and running this office professionally.

 Sandra Tan

New: [BN] Politics Now video chat

We've posted our latest edition of the [BN] Politics Now video chat. Assistant Managing Editor Bruce Andriatch talks with Political Reporter Charlie Specht about India Walton, Steve Pigeon and former Political Reporter Bob McCarthy. Click on this link to watch.

News & Notes

A former legislative director to Assembly Member Patrick Burke, D-Orchard Park, has filed a claim accusing him of sexual harassment, saying Burke repeatedly commented on women's appearances, joked about genitalia and discussed the sex lives of both a family member and fellow legislators in the office, Caitlin Dewey reports. Burke, who denied the allegations, now faces an investigation by the State Assembly's Ethics Committee. Erie County Democratic Chairman Jeremy Zellner, in a written statement, said, "This is the subject of an ongoing investigation that must be allowed to reach a conclusion based on the facts. As I have said before, anyone guilty of such behavior must face the consequences of their actions regardless of political party."

Erie County District Attorney John Flynn has responded to the claims of bias made by former Erie County Democratic chairman  and criminal defendant  Steve Pigeon. In court, prosecutors said it appears Pigeon "thinks everybody is out to get him."

Murray Holman, a longtime anti-violence activist in Buffalo, is jumping into the crowded race for the Masten District seat on the Common Council, Holman told City Hall reporter Deidre Williams.

A new Williamsville mayor and as many as three new Village Board members are coming to a village government that has seen tense disagreements play out in recent years, reports Stephen T. Watson. Additionally, a candidate for Amherst Town Justice tells Watson he is dropping out of the race.

New York City lost its bid to host the 2024 Democratic National Convention. The event will be held in Chicago.

What we're reading

Changes to New York's judicial nominating system raise eyebrows, possibilities," by Susan Arbetter of Spectrum.

Are more than half of felony charges in Manhattan downgraded? Yes, but it's common elsewhere, too," by Jill Terreri Ramos of PolitiFact.

Correction: The April 11 edition of this newsletter stated that Leah Halton-Pope was the endorsed Democratic candidate for Common Council in the Ellicott District. As previously reported by The News, the Erie County Democratic Committee has chosen not to endorse any candidates for that seat.

Stay tuned to this space for more political news and please share this newsletter with your friends! We send out a newsletter once a week, on Tuesday mornings.

Sign up for this and other Buffalo News newsletters at buffalonews.com/newsletters/.

Have thoughts on the [BN] Politics Now newsletter? Email cspecht@buffnews.com.
The Attorney-General Godfred Dame has been urged to start the process of triggering INTERPOL alert to bring back the Canadian Gold smuggler and money launderer Alistair Mathias from wherever he is in the world to assist with investigations.

Security Analyst Dr Adam Bonaa who made the call indicated that it has become necessary for Mathias to be brought in by state authorities to assist in the investigations.

Dr Bonaa even suspected that Mathias could still be in Ghana.

In the final episode of Al Jazeera's undercover investigation into Mathias' gold smuggling and money-laundering activities across Africa, Mathias boastfully claimed to have relationships with various presidents on the continent including President Akufo-Addo.

He described Ghana's President as a good friend and alleged that the President was his lawyer.

The Attorney-General should trigger the interpol alert to bring him back to assit in investigation.

 He might even been domiciled in Ghana, nobody knows, Dr Bonaa said on the Big Issue on TV3 Tuesday April 18.

Deputy Director of External Affairs of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) Nana Kwame Asafo-Adjei accused the main opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) of having hands in the Al Jazeera's undercover investigation on Alistair Mathias.

Asafo-Adjei said he was worried about the impression some of these matters create about Ghana on the international scene.

Also speaking on the Big Issue on Asafo-Adjei said Clearly, you see the hand of the NDC in this matter, it was just like the Number 12 documentary which someone mentioned the name of the President, Asafo-Adjei said.

He further called for a full scale investigation into this matter.

There should be a full scale investigation into this matter. Under NDC the country was milked by Mathias and that is my worry.

But Edem Agbana who is a member of the NDC Communications team rejected the claim that NDC had a hand in this matter.

He said on the same show that It is quite surprising that my brother is bringing the NDC in this. I am wondering why the NDC will be brought in this.

3news.com
Explosions rocked the Sudanese capital Khartoum on Tuesday as fighting that has claimed nearly 200 lives entered a fourth day, despite growing international calls for an end to hostilities.

A weeks-long power struggle erupted into deadly violence Saturday between the forces of two generals who seized power in a 2021 coup: army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his deputy, Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who commands the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Battles have taken place throughout the vast east African country and there are fears of regional spillover of the conflict that has seen air strikes, artillery and heavy gunfire.

In a statement, G7 foreign ministers meeting in Japan warned the fighting "threatens the security and safety of Sudanese civilians and undermines efforts to restore Sudan's democratic transition".

But despite their call for the warring parties to "end hostilities immediately", loud explosions were heard on Tuesday morning in Khartoum, where militiamen in turbans and fatigues roamed the streets.

Map locating clashes in Sudan from April 15 to April 17, as of 1130 GMT. By Sophie RAMIS, Sylvie HUSSON, Emmanuelle MICHEL (AFP)

Terrified residents of the capital are spending the last and holiest days of Ramadan watching from their windows as tanks roll through the streets, buildings shake and smoke from fires triggered by the fighting hangs in the air.

"Bombardments usually start around 4:00 am and they continue for a few hours, but today they haven't stopped," said Khartoum resident Dallia Mohamed Abdelmoniem.

"We haven't slept in the past four days," she said, adding her family had been staying indoors "trying to keep our sanity intact".

Army vows 'crushing defeat'

Civilians have also seen their food supplies run out, as the violence has prevented the few grocery stores that remain open to replenish dwindling stocks. The fighting has also damaged aircraft and brought a halt to flights to and from Khartoum airport.

A satellite image taken on April 17, 2023 shows an Il-76 transport aircraft burned at Khartoum International Airport. By Handout (Satellite image 2022 Maxar Technologies/AFP)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said he had spoken with the two generals and "underscored the urgent need for a ceasefire".

Daglo said on Twitter after his call with Blinken that the RSF "reaffirms its approval" of a 24-hour "armistice to ensure the safe passage of civilians and the evacuation of the wounded".

The army bluntly dismissed his statement, however.

"We are not aware of any coordination with the mediators and the international community about a truce, and the rebellion's declaration of a 24-hour truce aims to cover up the crushing defeat it will receive within hours," it warned on Facebook.

People rarely venture outside to get food and other supplies as stocks run out. By - (AFP/File)

Blinken said a US diplomatic convoy had been fired upon on Monday, though those inside were unharmed, in what he called a "reckless" act.

In a separate incident, the European Union said its ambassador to Sudan was attacked in his home in Khartoum on Monday. A spokesperson told AFP the veteran diplomat was "OK" following the assault.

Derailed transition

The fighting broke out on Saturday after bitter disagreements between Burhan and Daglo over the planned integration of the RSF into the regular army -- a key condition for a final deal aimed at ending a crisis since the 2021 coup, which derailed a transition to democracy.

A composite picture shows General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan (L) and paramilitary commander Mohamed Hamdan Daglo (R). By Yasuyoshi CHIBA, Ashraf SHAZLY (AFP/File)

Both claim to be in control of key sites, including the airport and the presidential palace -- none of which could be independently verified.

Analysts say the fighting in the capital is unprecedented and could be prolonged.

Volker Perthes, the head of the UN mission to Sudan, told the Security Council in a closed-door session Monday that at least 185 people had been killed and another 1,800 wounded.

"It's a very fluid situation so it's very difficult to say where the balance is shifting to," he said.

People queue for bread outside a bakery in Khartoum amid food shortages. By - (AFP)

Medics in Sudan had earlier given a death toll of nearly 100 civilians and "dozens" of fighters from both sides, but the number of casualties was thought to be far higher, with many wounded unable to reach hospitals.

The official doctors' union warned fighting had "heavily damaged" multiple hospitals, with some completely "out of service".

The World Health Organization warned that several Khartoum hospitals "have run out of blood, transfusion equipment, intravenous fluids and other vital supplies".

Humanitarian organisations shuttered

In the western region of Darfur, international medical aid organisation Doctors Without Borders (MSF) reported receiving 183 wounded patients at the only hospital in El Fasher still operating in North Darfur state, 25 of whom it said had died.

A pickup truck of Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF) is seen in the south Khartoum. By - (AFP/File)

"The majority of the wounded are civilians who were caught in the crossfire -- among them are many children," MSF's Cyrus Paye said.

Three UN World Food Programme staff were also among those killed on Saturday in Darfur, where humanitarian missions have had medical and other supplies looted, according to Save the Children and MSF.

A number of organisations have temporarily suspended operations in the country, where one-third of the population needs aid.

"This renewed fighting only aggravates what was already a fragile situation, forcing UN agencies and our humanitarian partners to temporarily shutter many of our more than 250 programmes across Sudan," said UN emergency relief coordinator Martin Griffiths.

Influential northern neighbour Egypt said it had discussed with Saudi Arabia, South Sudan and Djibouti -- all close allies of Sudan -- "the need to make every effort to preserve stability and safety".

President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi called on the two sides to "return to the negotiating table" and said he was working on the return of Egyptian military "trainers" captured Saturday at an air base by RSF forces.
A former Minister of Finance Dr Kwabena Duffuor has described as nothing short of sordid reports that students of Ghana Senior High School use toilets as dormitories as a result of inadequate facilities.

A viral video captured the situation in the Tamale-based school, forcing the Ghana Education Service (GES) to sanction the Headmaster and the Senior Housemaster.

The two officials have been asked to step aside for investigations to be conducted into the matter.

The schools authorities as well as the Old Students Association have denied this, claiming the journalist only misconstrued the keeping of chop boxes and trunks in the cubicles.

Weighing into the discourse, Dr Duffuor recalled that when he was the Finance Minister, under the Presidency of Professor John Evans Atta Mills , they worked tirelessly to deploy resources to the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund).

He said this was to conscientiously provide a deluge of boarding facilities for existing schools, and also constructed new schools with such facilities.

He is, therefore, concerned that as the desire to provide the countrys children a free education is burning, we must conscientiously also ensure that our children acquire education in dignity.

Agreeing with the decision by the GES to sanction investigations by asking the two officials of the school to step aside, Dr Duffuor also called on policy makers to work to ensure that adequate facilities are provided to support the educational transformation process.

Our beloved Motherland is the only country we have so let us work together to build the Better Ghana we all desire and deserve.

3news.com
18.04.2023 LISTEN

The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) Saturday, 15 April 2023, arrested a Kenyan national at the Kotoka International Airport (KIA) for smuggling 11.04 kilogrammes of cocaine worth $309,120 into Ghana.

The suspect, Njeri Mary, 35, was apprehended by NACOC officials during routine checks at the arrival hall after disembarking from a South African Airways flight from Nairobi to Accra via Johannesburg.

A search of her luggage revealed packages of Cremora food that contained the concealed drugs.

Preliminary questioning revealed that she had confirmed possession of the consignment in her luggage, and she was later arrested for further investigation.

The exhibits have been sent to the Ghana Standard Authority (GSA) for analysis and report while the suspect is being held in prison custody pending further investigation and prosecution.

NACOC has assured the public that it is committed to reducing the drug trafficking threat to the country.

The Commission further reminded the general public that the possession and transportation of illicit drugs without lawful authority is illegal and punishable under sections 40 (1) and 41 (1) of Act 1019 of the Narcotics Control Commission Act 2020.
As the G20 summit approaches amidst a global turmoil, whether the African Union will be invited to just participate or also join as a member remains elusive. India is definitely committed to strengthen its relationship with Africa and its closer involvement in the G20 process. This is also supported by civil society and business in India and Africa. Therefore, it is important to see how the international community can signal Africa of its commitment toward them in these difficult times. Indias G20 Presidency offers an opportunity to make the forum truly representative by helping realise the African Union (AUs) desire of permanent membership.

The African Union, at its 2013 summit, adopted Agenda 2063 - a blueprint of its long-term transformation plan for the continent. Notable steps have been taken to institutionalise collective action and representation in certain areas. AU platforms like the AU Committee for Climate Change are pursuing common goals in specific domains, which will have a bearing on Africa's interests. The AU is also working on implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement, which will create one single market in the whole continent. AfCFTA entered into force in May, 2019, and 46 of the 54 signatory countries have deposited their instruments of ratification.

Structural inequities in Africa

Africa's vulnerability during globally disruptive events like the COVID 19 pandemic and the ongoing Ukraine war, was laid bare. As observed in the last three years, people living in Africa have been disproportionately impacted by these events. The existing international order failed to address this disparity and its frailty will stand exposed if a similar disruption follows in future. While such crises accentuate quickly in the continent, the share of assistance to have come from within Africa is relatively low. It is a reflection of two of the structural inequities which characterise the continent. First, the impact of crises is more acute in Africa when compared globally, which means that the scale and urgency of assistance required are much higher. Second, the capacity of actors within Africa is limited in the backdrop of the gigantic requirements. No African country figures in the list of the Worlds 25 largest economies (measured by GDP).

Indias role in driving African Influence

There is some way to go before Africa becomes a leading voice on global issues. Though the African Union (AU) has been pushing to be a more active participant in the international fora, its ability to influence global outcomes continues to remain limited. Regional groupings which have had an imprint on global affairs, have done so, while being driven by the individual strength of 2-3 countries. Hence, it is critical for individual countries to grow into actors of global relevance. For the AU to have an influence on matters of global concern, it is important for countries like South Africa, Nigeria, Egypt and Kenya to focus on sustainable growth of their economies and invest in strategic partnerships. Herein, India could play a vital role. In addition to its outreach to Africa as a whole, India must raise the level of bilateral engagements with the aforementioned countries. Investing political capital in bilateral partnerships with key states will help India in its pursuit of deeper engagements in Africa. India and Egypt elevated their relationship to the level of a strategic partnership, earlier this year. Under this framework, the two countries agreed to raise the level of bilateral cooperation across four pillars - political & security matters, trade and economics, cultural affairs and scientific & academic partnerships. While South Africa is a permanent G20 member, Egypt and Nigeria are also among countries, which have been invited by India during its ongoing G20 presidency.

G20 Permanent membership

Right from the outset, India has maintained that its G20 Presidency will accommodate concerns of the Global South, to steer an agenda which is Inclusive, Impactful and Action Oriented. The African Union (AU), which has representation of 55 countries and makes up 20% of the worlds population, must be accorded a permanent place in major multilateral forums. While India has extended an invitation to the AU chair among other international invitees, the time has come to revamp the G20s structure to make it truly representative. India, in its role as the G20 chair, must support the AUs efforts to become a permanent member of the G20 as the European Union (EU) is. While participation of individual invitee states from Africa is welcome, the AUs permanent presence would give a fillip to G20s core understanding of concerns of the Global South. These first-hand insights that AU can bring will enable platforms like the G20 to incorporate appropriate policy inputs. The idea of AUs G20 membership is also attracting global attention. President Joe Biden of the US called on the G20 to include the AU as a permanent member, on the side-lines of the US-Africa Leaders Summit in December, 2022. China, too, has supported the idea of the AUs bid to join the G20 at various platforms - including at the G20 leaders summit in Bali, in November, 2022. As calls for the AUs increased participation grow louder, India must take the lead and integrate the AU in global decision-making processes by steering the latters permanent G20 membership.

Mehta is the Secretary General of CUTS International, Jaipur and Misiani Mwencha is Board Member of CUTS Centre for Trade, Economics and Environment in Nairobi. Jayesh Mathur of CUTS International contributed.
The Centre for Development Communications (CEDEC), Department of Faith Formation of the Catholic Diocese of Navrongo Bolgatanga (CDNB), has commissioned about One Hundred and nineteen (119) Catechist to teach the faith in the Diocese in the Upper East Region.

The trainees drawn from across the Navrongo Bolgatanga Dioceses, underwent three-year formation in studying six disciplines which are: Theology, Scripture, church history, Pastoral care, and Catechetics among others.

In an interview with Modern Ghana News at Navrongo, on the criteria of enrolment, the Diocesan Director of Catechetics Rev, Father Felix Anafo stated that, enrolment is based on the basic qualification of being able to read and write to understand something, and being available for three years of formation. Fr. Anafo said they will return to their various Parishes they were drawn from and their Parish Priest will further assign them their roles.

Some he stated will conduct communion services in some villages, marriage counseling, catechize for children preparing them for the sacrament, and adult ongoing formation among others. The Diocesan Director urged all the Catholic faithful to avail themselves in sharing the ministry of Christ.

The Bishop of the Navrongo-Bolgatanga Diocese Alfred Agyenta, explained that catechism is a role played by the lay faithful in the Catholic Church in collaboration with the Priest in order to teach the Catholic faith, especially Catholics who want to grow their faith and for those who want to become Christians.

They stated that, the Priests are not enough to cover the growing population of the Catholic faithful, in all the communities hence, the need for these Catechists support. He indicated that the commissioning is the first of its kind in the Dioceses.
18.04.2023 LISTEN

A former Medical Director of the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, Dr. Thomas Winsum Anabah has chastised the government of Ghana for failing to make adequate plans toward the procurement of childhood immunisation vaccines.

His comment follows the recent shortage of some vaccines used for routine immunisation of babies which led to reports of measles outbreak in the Northern part of Ghana.

Speaking in an interview with the International Womens Media Foundation (IWMF), Dr. Anabah said city authorities failed to prioritise programmed immunisation.

The government just refused to renege on its responsibilities because the vaccination programme is a worldwide module understood by every nation. You can plan within a year or two to get vaccine for your country. It is governments lack of priority, lack of understanding about the importance of vaccines and shared incompetency on the part of the Ministers of Health and Finance to get us the vaccines, he said.

Also, the General Secretary of the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association, Dr. David Tenkorang-Twum blamed the government of Ghana for failing to properly plan for the childhood immunisation.

There was a general shift from other vaccination to Covid-19 however, government was not considerate about the plights of the vulnerable. I felt that, we were not conscious about securing the needed childhood immunisation vaccines in their rightful quantities for kids. Nurses, our basic duty is to dispense vaccines and there are systems of accountability which enable us to notice our stock levels and report crucial levels to our superior. It was the responsibility of the Ministry of Health to procure the vaccines, it is not our duty to go searching for vaccines.

Perhaps, we shifted attention from programmed vaccines and over-concentrated on Covid-19 vaccines even when we knew some of the investors will pull-out, the government failed to adequately budget for these essential vaccines, he said.

On his part, the Technical Officer in charge of Immunisation at the World Health Organisation (WHO) Ghana Country Office, Fred Osei-Sarpong said even though routine immunisation is carefully strategized to ensure that kids are vaccinated, external factor; currency depreciation contributed to the shortages.

Mr. Osei-Sarpong however reiterated the World Health Organizations continuous commitment to assisting Ghana in achieving immunisation coverage. In order to deliver health services to kids in riverside communities, we have engaged appropriate stakeholders to procure boats and other logistics for healthcare workers, he said.

Meanwhile, in a press release dated 12th March, 2023, the Ghana Health Service announced the receipt of childhood immunisation vaccines. A statement signed by the Director General, Patrick Kuma-Aboagye states that, The Ministry of Health/Ghana Health Service has just taken delivery of some childhood vaccines that has been in short supply in the country for sometime. The vaccines are BCG, OPV and Measles with accompany device (needles, syringes, safety boxes etc.).

The WHO in 2015, estimated that about three million children under five years of age die each year in the African Region and a significant number of these deaths could be prevented by vaccines.

In addressing challenges related to vaccine accessibility, players within the health sector identified the manufacturing of vaccines in Africa as a long-term intervention to forestall shortages within the continent. Currently, African countries rely on imported vaccines from Asia and Europe, only 1% of vaccines is produced in Africa.

In April, 2021 during the Covid-19 pandemic, African Union Heads of State and over 40,000 esteemed participants in a virtual summit on Expanding Africas Vaccine Manufacturing for Health Security, recognised Africas limited vaccine manufacturing capacity and capabilities and endorsed the launch of the Partnerships for African Vaccine Manufacturing (PAVM), which aims to leverage pan-African and global partnerships to scale-up vaccine manufacturing in Africa.

As a result of this, African leaders proposed ambition to manufacture 60% of Africas routine immunisation needs on the continent by 2040. Today, African countries; Ghana, Senegal, Nigeria, Rwanda are in the process of building vaccine manufacturing plants.

A leading advocate for expanding vaccine access and uptake globally, advancing vaccine research and development and amplifying vaccine knowledge and Innovation is the Sabin Vaccine Institute. The Director of Advocacy and Outreach, Vaccine Acceptance and Demand, Vince Blaser, said as the continent makes progress towards the production of vaccines, there should be continuous diplomatic push for effective systems that will ensure the timely supply of vaccines.

This reporting was supported by the International Womens Media Foundations Global Health Reporting Initiative: Vaccines and Immunization in Africa.
18.04.2023 LISTEN

For some time now, I have thought about this critical issue while trying to digest what probably has necessitated the gradual migration of the potential human resource of a continent blessed with many natural resources. The question begging for answers is why are many African talents running away from the continent? Which factors account for the sudden migration of potential continental builders to Europe and America? What are some of the remedies to this trend if any. This article aims at tackling the issue while humbly suggesting solutions to curb the situation

I have decided to talk about the desertion of the African continent by the growing youth who seek to find greener pastures in other parts of the world. Though this is a very difficult issue, I will try my best to be reasonable and logical. If You had the opportunity to interview 10 African youth whether given the chance to choose between living in Africa to contribute to its development or travelling to Europe or America, which of these options would they choose, I can tell you that 9 out of the 10 would choose to settle in other parts of the world far from Africa. The remaining one will just be indecisive.

It is not the intent of this article to criticize anybody who chooses where to live in any part of the world if the person finds peace and tranquillity of mind. Travelling to other parts of the world is not a taboo, especially for education, training, and trading purposes in this modern era. It allows one to see, learn and acquire the skills and knowledge that foster innovation. After all, we are in a global village!

However, what seems of concern is when you have most of the productive part of the population deserting Africa to find their livelihood in other parts of the world and contribute to their progress and development. This should be of great concern to African leaders.

Perhaps there are a plethora of reasons that can be attributed to this canker which has become the latest trend on the continent. Many years ago, it used to be political instability in most parts of the continent accounted for the migration of many Africans to other parts of the world especially among the youth. Many people tried to escape the political cruelty of the day. You expect that since this occurrence is on the low in most parts of the continent these days that should give room for many to stay and build the continent contrary to recent happenings.

Moreover, bad governance in most parts of the continent cannot be taken out of this important conversation. In most instances, corrupt and greedy individuals are elected to the helm of affairs. These selfish and greedy leaders think less about their citizens and focus on the enrichment of their family members and friends. It is a known fact that bad governance has led to the underdevelopment of the continent. These visionless leaders have demonstrated that they lack the will and zeal coupled with the lack of policies and plans that aim at curtailing the problem.

The lack of employment for young African graduates after school forces these energetic graduates to travel to Europe and America to further their education and settle after their studies. After spending so much in school, people must pay bribes before they can be placed in government institutions. This phenomenon is deeply taking place in Ghana and most parts of the continent. This has led to the frustration of many graduates. In some cases, some graduates stay home for more than 5 years without any proper decent paying job. All these frustrations make them want to go and never return.

Furthermore, a major factor that cannot be hidden under the carpet in this conversation is the poor condition of workers. The amount paid to employees at the end of the month is nothing to write home about. It is therefore not surprising that when an individual sees what he or she earns in a year in Africa in juxtaposition to what a colleague in America or Europe earns within the same time frame, it gingers such individuals to leave the continent. People are under paid. The only people who receive the best salaries are the politicians and those who are friends with them.

What adds insult to injury is that some persons or employees work in government institutions yet they do not have healthcare benefits, transport allowance and other benefits that help the individual to save and so employees are to fall on their meagre salaries for these expenses. The earlier the leaders pay attention to this the better!

Nurses are leaving, teachers are leaving, doctors are leaving and almost all the skilled workers are migrating. A few weeks ago, the United Kingdom barred recruitment agencies from recruiting health workers from 54 countries Ghana inclusive. This has become a national issue in Ghana. Why are people moaning about this ban? Because they believe that when they get the opportunity to go, they will make it better than their colleagues in Ghana and other parts of the continent. After retirement, they will enjoy a lot of benefits and respect from the country than they will get in Africa.

Brain drain has become the new tool of destruction for the African continent after the barbaric slave trade and colonisation. In some parts of the world, when young citizens travel to America and Europe to learn, they quickly go back to their home countries to contribute to the growth and development of their countries. This is not the case for African students in the diaspora.

The article How Extensive is the Brain Drain written by William J. Carrington and Enrica Detragiache and published by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), tried to establish the basis for which many people are leaving their continent and travelling to the Western world.

The biggest migratory flows from Africa to the United States are from Egypt, Ghana and South Africa, with more than 60 per cent of immigrants from those three countries having a tertiary education. The migration of Africans with only a primary education is almost nil according to the article.

Reading this was a shock but it was not a surprise as well. This should be a worry for African leaders and decision-makers to rethink how things operate on the continent. How can 60 per cent of persons leave the continent to go build other countries and continent be graduates? In most instances, these people do not have the desire to return and even give their expertise.

As a continent, we are digging our graves if we do not find a solution to this never-ending trend that has become a recipe for the failure of the continent. Leaders must be responsible in their leadership by first thinking about their citizens rather than themselves.

There should be proper design and policy in place to make sure that when young graduates are done with their first degree, they are not entrapped into moving to Europe and America for better working and living conditions.

It is always good to receive higher education from some of these developed countries to build oneself, but it is not enough when after acquiring this knowledge and skills we refuse to come back and build our home. And yet we still profess that we love Africa just by mouth and not by intent and deeds. These people who are privileged to travel should remember that there is no place like home.

Africa is what we have all got and if we turn our back on it, posterity will judge us badly. Irrespective of the number of years we live and spend in Europe or America, we cannot be Europeans or Americans not even by naturalisation or gaining citizenship.

Most citizens from the Asian continent when they are done with their studies go back home to give their skills and expertise to help build their country. And that is why most of them are developed.

Even in Africa, those who gain government scholarships and grants to study abroad do not want to come and give back to society. We need to change this narrative. No one from America or Europe will come here to build our continent. Let us have a paradigm shift!

We should make the African continent an enviable place to live and stay. No one will if we do not do it ourselves. Africa must work again. Young Positivist, a concerned citizen of the continent.

Author: Sampson Boamah
Presidential aspirant of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Dr. Kwabena Duffuor, has expressed his concerns about the state of senior high education in Ghana.

The recent news of students at Ghana Secondary School (GHANASCO) in Tamale sleeping in toilet cubicles due to insufficient accommodation has caused public outrage.

Dr. Duffuor has joined in expressing his dismay, describing the situation as heartbreaking.

According to Dr. Duffuor, it is unacceptable that some Senior High School students in Ghana are being forced to sleep in toilets due to damaged or dilapidated school facilities.

He specifically cited the situation at GHANASCO in Tamale as being deplorable and finds it difficult to comprehend why, after 66 years of independence, the education system is still in such a dire state.

At this stage in the life of Ghana, after 66 years of Independence, some of our Senior High School children are being compelled to sleep in toilets because of the destruction of school facilities as well as the inability to rapidly replace/repair dilapidated structures.

Ghana Secondary School (GHANASCO), Tamale, is nothing short of, sordid, he stated.

The headmaster of the school has been asked to step aside, but Dr. Duffuor insists that more needs to be done to address the issue.

He urges policymakers to provide adequate facilities to support the educational transformation process.

He fuether indicated that the headmaster's suspension is a necessary step.

While the rod is not being spared vis-a-vis the interdiction of the Headmaster, let the Policy Makers honestly work towards providing adequate facilities to support the educational transformation process," he emphasized.
France's government is looking for a way around an impending ban imposed by its own health watchdog on the insecticide phosphine so that it can carry on exporting wheat to North Africa.

Shipments of grain to countries such as Egypt and Algeria cannot be offloaded at ports unless they are treated with phosphine  a gas that kills pest insects such as beetles, mites, moths and weevils.

Phosphine is also dangerous to humans, causing brain damage, respiratory disorders and other illnesses when inhaled in large quantities.

Growers in France  by far the EU's biggest wheat producer  argue the ban will ultimately play into the hands of Russia, the world's top producer.

They say food security in North African nations will also be put at risk.

Looming deadline

Farmers are pushing the government for assurances the issue will be resolved before the ban takes effect on 25 April, putting at risk some 11.5 million tons of grain with a trade value of 3.8 billion.

"If no decision is taken we'll no longer be able to export to countries such as Togo, Cameroon, Algeria, or Egypt  which require fumigation in direct contact with the grain," Eric Thirouin, president of the Association of French Grain Producers (AGPB), told French news agency AFP.

"We are up against the wall. Belgium, Germany and all the other European countries have reauthorised the use of direct fumigation  all except France.

This means the world's fourth-largest wheat exporter may no longer be able to deliver to its customers, which would have a serious impact on food security and on the trade balance of France."

The foreign affairs and agriculture ministries have urged health watchdog Anses (the National Food Safety Agency) to reconsider its ban given the economic ramifications.

The risk is immediate for our foreign trade and our cereal sector, one of the major agricultural surplus sectors for export (14.5 billion euros in 2022), an unnamed government source told Le Figaro.

We cannot leave cereal farmers without a solution.

European laws

Meanwhile Trade Minister Olivier Becht last week told parliament that steps would be taken to ensure France deferred to European laws allowing phosphine to be used on shipments of exported grain.

"There are still legal clarifications to be made, but I can guarantee that by April 25, decisions will be made so that exports can continue," Becht said.

Under EU rules, he added, maximum residue limits for pesticides do not apply to non-EU country exports if the treatments are required or accepted.

The tug of war between the French government and Anses has been escalating, with questions raised over the watchdog's legitimacy in making decisions of economic importance without also consulting with the government.

French wheat has become increasingly competitive in North African markets thanks to rising insurance costs for shipping supplies from Russia.

Agriculture Minister Marc Fesneau recently said he would rather see cereals leave French ports than "Mr Putin's ports", adding this issue was not a matter of public health, but of people's ability to feed themselves".
Its not just Nardin thats enduring a crisis of leadership. Indeed, the problems seem to be circulating through the education system like a virus. Consider SUNY Erie Community College.

As with Nardin, the dissatisfaction showing up among faculty and students is plainly tied to a push for change. Thats always stressful and in many cases, its also unavoidable. The questions are which changes are needed, how they are implemented and  getting to the problems at ECC  with what level of diplomacy.

On that score, ECC has had a rough time. Only four months after parting ways with former President David Balkin, his interim successor, Adiam Tsegai, is facing allegations that seem painfully familiar.

For insufficient reasons, the details of Balkins departure after only 11 months on the job have been wrapped in secrecy. What is known is that the college investigated following a confrontation between Balkin and a member of the library staff after Balkin had proposed moving the school library into the nearby Buffalo & Erie County Public Library in downtown Buffalo.

Now, complaints from two employees, both deemed credible by an investigator, accuse Tsegai of creating a hostile workplace. One claimed that she berated and chewed me out viciously in front of other employees and threatened my job multiple times, while the other accused her of going ballistic and pointing her finger in my face in a threatening manner. Both complainants say Tsegai blew up at them after they challenged a decision.

As with Balkin, much is unknown. What were the details of the decision? In what way did the workers challenge it? What, exactly, did Tsegai say?

These are important questions for anyone wanting a full picture of what occurred. Nevertheless, its fair to conclude that zero diplomacy is involved when jabbing a finger in someones face, regardless of the relationship.

Leaders of big organizations understand  or, at least, should understand  that decisions regarding fundamental changes are bound to produce resentments. Its their job to respond in as constructive a way as they can. Thats fundamental to leadership, especially in times of stress.

Its also fair to keep in mind that change is sweeping though education, especially true for institutions that rely on student tuition for much of their revenue. Conflict was assured, for example, when Balkin cut jobs and eliminated underused programs. But the financial crisis that had enveloped ECC demanded difficult steps. It still does. Thats the challenge facing Tsegai.

Its about equilibrium and its not always easy to maintain in periods of stress. Still, thats the job.

  

Whats your opinion? Send it to us at lettertoeditor@buffnews.com. Letters should be a maximum of 300 words and must convey an opinion. The column does not print poetry, announcements of community events or thank you letters. A writer or household may appear only once every 30 days. All letters are subject to fact-checking and editing.
A forest fire which destroyed 1,000 hectares in the south-west of France on Sunday is now under control. However, firefighters are concerned that it is just the beginning of what will be an extreme summer due to the drought in the region.

The fire broke out on Sunday morning between the towns of Cerbere and Banyuls-sur-Mer, in the southwest of France, bordering Spain.

Fanned by a strong wind sometimes peaking at up to 100 kilometres per hour, the fire ravaged nearly 1,000 hectares of the hilly area. It destroyed vineyards, several houses and cars.

No injuries or deaths were reported.

Some 500 firefighters, supported by six water bomber planes were needed to bring the blazes under control.

Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin, who visited the area on Monday, said more hours of work would be needed to avoid the risk of embers spreading.

"It happened so quickly, and with the wind, we practically couldn't stand up (...) Honestly, we had never experienced that," resident Jean-Claude Portella told French news agency AFP.

About 300 people were evacuated on Sunday afternoon as a precaution. Most were able to return to their homes during the evening, according to the prefecture.

It is the largest fire in France so far this year, occurring in a department already facing a cruel lack of rain and extreme dryness of the soil.

"We are used to observing forest fires in winter," Romaric Cinotti, forest fire expert at weather bureau Meteo-France told AFP.

"But what is particularly worrying in the Pyrenees-Orientales is the exceptional deficit of rain: in Cap Bear, the station closest to the fire, only 230 mm fell over the past year against 626 mm on average," he said.

Water restrictions

The drought linked to global warming, is already causing restrictions and tensions, with four villages being deprived of drinking water since Friday.

Farmers, many in this fruit and vegetable producing department, fear for their survival in this historically arid early spring.

Faced with the high risk of fires, Darmanin stressed that firefighters could count on increased air resources this summer.

"We are going to experience an extremely difficult summer of 2023, probably at least as difficult as the summer of 2022," he said.

He noted that global warming had contributed significantly to an early fire season and that fires were no longer restricted to the south of the country.

"50 percent of the fires last summer were north of the Loire (river)," he said.

Firefighters remained on high alert Monday, warning it would take several days for the fire to go from "fixed to extinguished".

(with AFP)
The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) has arrested a 35-year-old Kenyan national for smuggling 11.04 kilogrammes of cocaine worth $309,120 into Ghana.

According to a statement from NACOC, the suspect, Njeri Mary, was apprehended during checks at the arrival hall of the Kotoka International Airport after alighting from a South African Airways flight from Nairobi to Accra via Johannesburg last Saturday, April 15.

A search of her luggage revealed packages of Cremora food that contained the concealed drugs. Preliminary questioning revealed that she had confirmed possession of the consignment in her luggage, and she was later arrested for further investigation, the statement said.

Francis Opoku Amoah, the Acting Director of Public Affairs at NACOC assured the public that "NACOC is committed to reducing the drug trafficking threat to the country."

The Commission wishes to use this medium to remind the general public that the possession and transportation of illicit drugs without lawful authority is illegal and punishable under sections 40 (1) and 41 (1) of Act 1019 of the Narcotics Control Commission Act 2020, Amoah warned.

The exhibits have been sent to the Ghana Standard Authority (GSA) for analysis and report, while the suspect is being held in prison pending further investigations and prosecution.

NACOC gave the assurance that it "is committed to reducing the drug trafficking threat to the country."

Watch videos and pictures below;



Release a copy of NACOCs press release below;

For Immediate Release

NACOC INTERCEPTS 11.4KG OF COCAINE WORTH $ 300K AT KIA

The Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) arrested a Kenyan national last Saturday 15 April 2023 for smuggling 11.04 kilogrammes of cocaine at the Kotoka International Airport (KIA) worth Three Hundred and Nine Thousand One Hundred and Twenty United States Dollars ($ 309,120) with a weight of 11.04kg.

The suspect, Njeri Mary, 35, was apprehended by NACOC officials during routine checks at the arrival hall after disembarking from a South African Airways flight from Nairobi to Accra via Johannesburg.

A search of her luggage revealed packages of Cremora food that contained the concealed drugs. Preliminary questioning revealed that she had confirmed possession of the consignment in her luggage, and she was later arrested for further investigation.

The exhibits have been sent to the Ghana Standard Authority (GSA) for analysis and report, while the suspect is being held in prison pending further investigations and prosecution.

NACOC assures the public that it is committed to reducing the drug trafficking threat to the country.

The Commission wishes to use this medium to remind the general public that the possession and transportation of illicit drugs without lawful authority is illegal and punishable under sections 40 (1) and 41 (1) of Act 1019 of the Narcotics Control Commission Act 2020.

END

Francis Opoku Amoah

AG. Director - Public Affairs
The Ghana Police Service has called on the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) to allow them to carry out their law enforcement duties.

The police have assured the public that it has put effective measures in place to ensure public order during all periods, including pre, during and post-elections.

The agency has urged both parties to offer constructive criticism in support of the police's professional work in accordance with their constitutional mandate.

The police held a meeting with the NPP and NDC leadership on April 17, 2023, following press statements and petitions from both parties calling for the arrest of certain individuals over alleged offensive comments.

During the meeting, both parties were given the opportunity to air their grievances, and the police briefed them on two strategic interventions introduced to manage election and politically related incidents.

The first strategic intervention is the establishment of the Police Election Security Secretariat, which works with all political parties and stakeholders to enhance the management of security for all elections in the country.

The first strategic intervention shared with them is the establishment of the Police Election Security Secretariat to work with all political parties and other stakeholders to enhance the management of security for all elections in the country. This is a complete departure from the old order where an election security task force was put together just some months before the general elections. Since its creation over a year ago, the Police Election Security Secretariat has worked with the various political parties in their respective internal elections from the polling station, through the constituency to the national executive elections. The Secretariat is currently working with both parties on their parliamentary and presidential primaries, said the police.

The second intervention is the setting up of a dedicated legal team to subject all politically related incidents to legal scrutiny before any police action is taken.

The second intervention is the setting up of a dedicated legal team to subject all politically related incidents to legal scrutiny to establish whether there are elements of crime or otherwise before any Police action is taken. The Police will therefore not intervene in any situation where there is no criminality involved, the police added.

The police provided updates on recent incidents, including the arrest of 14 members of the NPP for disturbances during their constituency elections at Enchi and the arrest of 9 out of the 16 wanted individuals for disturbances at the national youth and women organizer polls of the NDC at Cape Coast.

An update was also provided on the status of the 2020 general election related cases including Techiman South and Odododiodio constituencies with the public to be informed on these cases in the course of the week.

The police have urged Ghanaians to assist them in creating an independent police service that serves the greater good of the nation and not any individual or group.

The agency has reassured the public of its commitment to maintaining peace and order throughout the country at all times including elections.
Oliver Barker Mawuse Vormawor, the lead convener of the #FixTheCountry Movement, has called out Ghanaians for their apathetic attitude towards oppressors' rule by government.

In a tweet on Tuesday, April 18, the activist questioned why citizens fail to resist oppressors' rule despite singing the national anthem "...and help us to resist oppressors rule."

Mr. Barker expressed his disappointment in the citizens' lack of action, stating, "Those who oppress us are not fatigued. Yet we the oppressed say we are so fatigued and demoralized to even fight back. Strange. So we do nothing!"

He emphasized the need for citizens to be vigilant and fight against their tormentors, urging the youth to wake up and take a stand against oppression.

He stated, "Bizarre that for all our formative years we are made to chant 'and help us to resist oppressors rule' and when it gets to when we resist, we say not today. Not me."
Two paintings and a sculpture from the 15th century, looted by the Nazis between 1933 and 1945 from German Jews, were returned to the heirs of the original owners on Tuesday.

Rima Abdul Malak, the French culture minister, handed over a painting on wood entitled "Battle Scene: Siege of Carthage by Scipion Emilien" to the heirs of Agathe and Ernst Saulmann on Tuesday.

The 15th century Florentine school piece had been at the Musee des Beaux-Arts in Angers.

The other 15th century piece, known as "Madonna and Child", from the Padua school had been in the Musee de Picardie in Amiens.

A sculpture of a "Virgin of Pity", made by the entourage of Gil de Siloe (also 15th century), and which was in the Louvre, was given to the heirs of Harry Fuld junior.

The three works returned on Tuesday were part of the so-called "National Museums Recovery" (MNR) initiative.

Over 2,000 works collected

Under the programme 2,200 works were identified in the early 1950s from among those found in Germany at the end of the Second World War. They were brought back to France and are waiting to be returned to their rightful owners.

Textile industrialist Ernst Saulmann and his photographer wife Agathe owned an important collection of works of art.

Forced to flee Nazi Germany in 1935, they emigrated to Italy and then to France.

The two paintings, passed through France during the Occupation and were later found in Germany in the collection of Adolf Hitler's close aide Hermann Goering.

They were repatriated to France after the Liberation, without their owner being identified. They were selected as MNR works in 1949.

Law to facilitate returns

Harry Fuld Junior was also forced into exile in Great Britain in 1937, because of anti-Semitic persecution.

His collection, which remained in Germany, was confiscated and sold in 1943.

The sculpture, found at a German art dealer in 1945, was then sent by mistake to France, without it being known who was the owner. It was selected as an MNR work in 1951.

A total of 184 MNR and similar works and objects have been returned since 1950.

Since a law voted on 21 February, 2022, 15 more works from national or territorial public collections have left the public domain and been returned to their Jewish owners.

Abdul Malak also announced that she would present the bill aimed at "facilitating other restitutions of works" looted by Nazi Germany, to the Council of Ministers on Wednesday.

(with wires)
World powers have been quick to condemn the ongoing violence between the Sudanese army and the powerful Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia which has resulted in the death of at least 200 people and has seen diplomatic missions in the country come under attack.

On Tuesday, G7 foreign ministers meeting in Japan urged warring forces in Sudan to "end hostilities immediately" and return to negotiations, after days of fighting that has killed over 200 people and wounded thousands.

They warned the fighting "threatens the security and safety of Sudanese civilians and undermines efforts to restore Sudan's democratic transition".

A recent power struggle in the country exploded into violence Saturday between the forces of two generals who seized power in a 2021 coup: Army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his deputy Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who commands the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

This comes as the European Union's ambassador to Sudan was attacked in his residence in Khartoum on Monday.

The 58-year-old Irish diplomat Aidan O'Hara was reportedly "not seriously hurt" but, according to Irish Foreign Minister Micheal Martin, the assault was "a gross violation of obligations to protect diplomats under the Vienna Convention".

However, the European Union has said "the EU delegation in Sudan has not been evacuated" and that security measures "are being assessed".

'Spectre of Benghazi'

Meanwhile, the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said he had spoken with the two generals and "underscored the urgent need for a ceasefire".

Blinken also confirmed a US diplomatic convoy had been fired upon in the city of Al Fashir in North Darfur province on Monday, although those inside were unharmed.

The potential targeting of diplomatic missions in Sudan conjures memories of the infamous 2012 attack on a US compound in the Libyan port city of Benghazi, where the US ambassador and three others were killed by the Islamist Ansar al-Sharia militia.

A diplomatic source close to RFI has said that they would not be "overly worried about a Benghazi-like assault on the American embassy [in Khartoum] as it's a fortress that has withstood demonstrators trying to overrun it" in the past.

However, "a determined military action would be something else."

Calls for ceasefire ignored

For its part, the United Nations has also called for an immediate ceasefire and international bodies, including the European Union, have expressed grave concern at the unravelling situation in Sudan.

Earlier on Tuesday, Sudan's army denied any knowledge of a 24-hour ceasefire that was suggested as RSF leader Dagalo reaffirmed his approval of an armistice.

Analysts say the fighting in the capital is unprecedented and could be prolonged, despite regional and global calls for a ceasefire as diplomats mobilise.

Battles have taken place throughout the country and there are fears of a regional spillover of the conflict that has seen air strikes, artillery and heavy gunfire in densely populated urban areas.

Khartoum residents 'terrified'

Speaking to RFI, Khartoum resident Dallia Abdelmoniem recounted: " It's been three days of non-stop artillery, gunshots... fighter jets were used yesterday ... it's beginning to affect our nerves and our well-being.

"We've had no electricity since Saturday afternoon, we haven't been able to go out because it's not safe enough to go outside. We're just staying indoors locked, doors locked. We've moved into the central area of the house because there's no windows because the constant artillery and the bombs are shaking the windows and we're afraid of the broken glass."

Abdelmoniem underlined her anger at the situation in Sudan, as it's always civilians who get caught in the crossfire.

"This time, it's between two men with too many weapons and too much power ... they don't care what happens. I mean, anyone who decides to use fighter jets in congested urban city? They don't care about us. "

Those compelled to venture outside face queues for bread and petrol at outlets that are not shuttered.

Medical situation critical

Meanwhile, medics in Sudan had earlier given a death toll of nearly 100 civilians and "dozens" of fighters from both sides, but the number of casualties was thought to be far higher as many wounded are unable to reach hospitals.

The official doctors' union warned fighting had "heavily damaged" multiple hospitals in Khartoum and other cities, with some completely "out of service".

The World Health Organization has warned that several Khartoum hospitals "have run out of blood, transfusion equipment, intravenous fluids and other vital supplies".

In the western region of Darfur, international medical aid organisation Doctors Without Borders reported receiving several dozens of wounded patients at the only hospital in Al Fashir still operating in North Darfur state  the majority are civilians caught in the crossfire  among them children.

Several aid organisations have temporarily suspended operations in the country, where one-third of the population needs assistance.

Appeal for international mediation

Sudan's influential neighbour Egypt has said it has discussed with Saudi Arabia, South Sudan and Djibouti  all close allies of Sudan  "the need to make every effort to preserve stability and safety".

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi called on the two sides to "return to the negotiating table"

On Twitter, Daglo called on the international community to intervene against Burhan, branding him a "radical Islamist who is bombing civilians from the air".

"We will continue to pursue Al-Burhan and bring him to justice," said Daglo, whose RSF and its predecessor the Janjaweed in Darfur have previously been accused of atrocities and war crimes.

Army statements call the RSF "a rebel militia" intent on "engaging near populated areas".

The fighting broke out after bitter disagreements between Burhan and Daglo over the planned integration of the RSF into the regular army  a key condition for a final deal aimed at ending a crisis since the 2021 coup  which has derailed the transition to democracy.
Latvian Foreign Minister, Edgars Rinkevics says Ghanas stellar journey and experience at the Security Council of the United Nations presents a perfect blueprint for Latvia to study and emulate.

Mr Edgars Rinkevics, who is on a working visit to Ghana and Benin believes such gesture will serve Latvias candidacy to become a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2026-2027 term.

He made this known when he paid a courtesy call on President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, the first of such visit by a High-Level Latvian Official to Ghana, today Monday, 17th April, 2023 at the Jubilee House, in Accra.

The Foreign Minister disclosed that, Latvia and Ghana have over the years collaborated in areas of education, security, trade and health infrastructure and technology especially in the field of radiology and pharmaceuticals.

President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, for his part, noted that the establishment of bonds of cooperation are a strong basis for building bilateral, state-to-state economic and political ties particularly between smaller nations.

He said, these high-level visits between Ghana and Latvia offer strong impetus for growth to the ties between the two countries, which at the moment is at the ground floor of an existing budding, yet promising era of fruitful engagements.

President Akufo-Addo observed that, in the way that the world is today, it is zealous relations that provide the strongest foundation for the state-to-state encounters and state-to-state developments thus we are very happy to have you here.

We know that you are at a very sensitive part of the world today, both from your history and from the actuality of what is happening around you. But you know Ghanas position as far as the big issues of the global agenda is concerned we are very strong supporters of the multi-lateral system of firm adherence of the rule of law, both domestically and within the global system of governance, and it is for that reason that we have taken this strong position about Russian involvements in Ukraine and I think that small countries like us have an interest in making sure that the great powers of the world are refrained as much as possible from this kind of activities, he added.

Citing the strong premise for continued efforts to work together, President Akufo-Addo said, we welcome you and your business delegation to Ghana and hopefully your time here is going to also be fruitful in terms of advancing the commercial as well as the political relations between our two countries.

Source: Classfmonline.com
18.04.2023 LISTEN

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) is set to enter another phase of its drive to ensure losses are tackled.

According to Managing Director Samuel Dubik Mahama, ECG is set to go after customers who have engaged in illegal connections and refusing to pay for the power they use.

Speaking to Joy FM on Tuesday, April 18, he warned that anyone who has done illegal mining will be dragged to the utility court and charged with stealing.

The next group of people that we are about to target is illegal connections. It is going to be the biggest thing that we are going to do. Lets just take it that Im giving everybody a headstart.

Anybody who knows or who believes their meter has been tampered with or theres a bypass should note that the utility court is being set up and they are going to be charged with stealing, Samuel Dubik Mahama said.

In the engagement today, the Managing Director of the Electricity Company of Ghana disclosed that the company loses billions through illegal connections alone.

Mr. Samuel Dubik Mahama implored Ghanaians to exhibit patriotism and pay utility bills to keep the company running.

In the last few weeks, the ECG has been chasing debtors, resulting in the retrieval of millions of cedis from big companies including state agencies.
An Accra High Court hearing the murder case of J. B. Danquah Adu, sitting MP for Abuakwa North, has ruled that the statements of the two accused persons offered to the Police and tendered in evidence were made voluntarily.

Delivering its ruling after mini-trial, the Court held that the accused persons were not coerced to make any statements to the Police, neither were they promised any favours before they voluntarily gave their caution and charge statements.

The objection by defence counsel in respect of the caution statement not being voluntarily made is overruled, the trial Judge, Justice Mrs Lydia Osei-Marfo said.

Daniel Aseidu aka Sexy Dondon and Vincent Bossu's lawyer, Mr Yaw Dankwah had contended that his clients did not voluntarily offer their caution and charge statements.

The Court therefore conducted a mini trial to ascertain the veracity of the accused persons before the substantive trial continued.

Aseidu contended that he was subjected to degrees of threat, harm and intimidation before he could accept what was thrown at him.

Prosecution led by Principal State Attorney Sefakor Batse held that the accused persons voluntarily gave their statements.

The state therefore called Police investigators and independent witnesses to prove that the accused persons gave their statements voluntarily.

Meanwhile the Court has adjourned the substantive trial to April 27, 2023, following a strike action by jurors.

Asiedu and Bossu are standing trial for the murder of the MP in February 2016. The two have been charged with conspiracy to rob.

Asiedu is facing additional charges of murder and robbery.

The two have been remanded into lawful custody.

GNA
18.04.2023 LISTEN

The Vice President of the Ghana Union of Traders Associations (GUTA), Clement Boateng has lambasted the First Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Joseph Osei Owusu, popularly known as Joe Wise over his attacks on GUTA.

Joe Wise in an interview with Oyerepa FM recently accused GUTA members of being dishonest among other things.

According to him, GUTA members always have a problem with paying taxes but find ways and means to cheat the Ghanaian people when selling goods.

They are always talking about taxes and yet they are over-exploiting Ghanaians and Im saying this without fear.

They are under-declaring and making huge profits, Joe Wise said.

Speaking to Citi News on Tuesday evening, GUTA Vice President Clement Boateng made it clear that his outfit is unhappy with the comments from the First Deputy Speaking.

Hitting out at the MP, Clement Boateng argued that if Joe Wise is so sure GUTA members under-declare at the ports, then it means the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) is not doing its job.

For the caliber of person of Joe Wise who is the first Deputy Speaker of Parliament to come out with a statement of this nature is very unfortunate. We dont expect him to be coming out with a statement of this nature because if you say we under-declare, we overprice our goods to make huge profits, and that we are dishonest, are you saying GRA is not doing their work? Because we dont give value to duties to be paid.

When we bring in our goods we submit our invoices, our list of items to the GRA to gift us the required duties to pay. And so if you say we under declare are you suggesting that GRA is not giving us the desired duty to pay? If statements like this come from our leaders then I do not know where we are heading to, the Vice President of GUTA bemoaned.

Meanwhile, Clement Boateng insists that things are expensive because of the high cost of doing business in Ghana.
Opinion / Columnist

HARARE - The president of NMWUZ - (the National Mine Workers' Union of Zimbabwe) has sent His Excellence President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa of the Second Republic of Zimbabwe, all workers in general and mine workers in particular and the generality of the Zimbabwean populace a happy forty-third independence day congratulatory message.

"Yes, we're celebrating forty-three years of independence from British colonial rule but amid the misery of workers due to prolonged and unaddressed workers' grievances and demands as employers continue to neglect their plight," lamented Mr. Kurebwa Javangwe Nomboka, the president of NMWUZ in Harare yesterday.After gaining independence from Britain, Zimbabwe has done little to nothing in addressing conditions of workers in general and mine workers in particular. Apart from addressing colonial racial imbalances which favored white against black labour, no significant progress has so far been made in adjusting wages and working conditions as most employers are awarding employees wages that are way down below the PDL - Poverty datum line.NMWUZ president further castigated the way Zimbabwe has handled the demands of its workforce, arguing the worker today has no joy, and is worker earning "peanuts", has no housing allowance, no pension plan, while fees are still being charged for even dipping livestock, with high taxation of the workers meagre wages thus revealing clearly how workers in present-day independent Zimbabwe are still reeling under the oppressive ripple effect of the former Ian Smith colonial administration of Salisbury, now called HarareApparently, Nomboka added saying some Chinese mining firms in Zimbabwe had been repeatedly alleged to be physically victimizing workers while Government continues to turn a blind eye on, taking no action to address the issue."Though as workers we're still not enjoying our fundamental freedoms such as association, assembly and expression, we're all the same wishing Zimbabwe a happy independence day," said Nomboka.Zimbabwe's 2023 independence day elebrations are historical in the sense that they are being held in rural Mt. Darwin for the first time.
Explosions shook Sudan's capital Tuesday evening despite one side's claiming a ceasefire on the fourth day of fighting that has killed nearly 200.

A weeks-long power struggle erupted into battles Saturday between the forces of two generals who seized power in a 2021 coup: army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his deputy, Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who commands the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Since then, international calls have mounted for an end to hostilities that have spawned increasing lawlessness, death and damage.

RSF commander Daglo, commonly known as Hemeti, announced support for an internationally-brokered 24-hour "armistice", which the army denied any knowledge of.

Civilians are running out of food. By - (AFP)

By 1600 GMT, the time of the supposed start to the ceasefire, gunfire could still be heard throughout the capital Khartoum, according to several witnesses, and it continued into the evening.

"As of now the fighting in Sudan, including Khartoum and various other locations, is continuing. No sign of real abatement of the fighting," the spokesman for United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said.

Daglo's announcement came after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said he spoke with the two generals and "underscored the urgent need for a ceasefire".

Sudan: main economic indicators. By ClAa PACULIER, Sophie RAMIS (AFP)

Foreign ministers of the G7, which includes the US, had also called on Tuesday for the warring parties to "end hostilities immediately", as loud explosions were heard in Khartoum, where militiamen in turbans and fatigues roamed the streets.

Underscoring the chaos, Washington said one of its diplomatic convoys was fired upon, and the EU said its ambassador was attacked at home.

Aid groups have reported looting of medical and other supplies.

There are fears of regional spillover from the conflict that has included air strikes and artillery fire.

A commercial building damaged in Khartoum. By - (AFP)

According to witnesses, pickup trucks carrying anti-aircraft guns -- stationed in residential areas of Khartoum -- were resupplied with ammunition Tuesday morning.

The windows of office and residential buildings in the city have been left shattered or riddled with bullets.

Terrified residents of the capital are spending the holiest final days of Ramadan sheltering as tanks roll through the streets, buildings shake, and smoke from fires triggered by the fighting hangs in the air.

Others are fleeing.

"Bombardments usually start around 4:00 am and they continue for a few hours, but today they haven't stopped," said Khartoum resident Dallia Mohamed Abdelmoniem.

A satellite photo shows damaged warplanes at Sudan's Merowe airport. By - (Satellite image 2023 Maxar Technologies/AFP)

"We haven't slept in the past four days," she said, adding her family had been staying indoors "trying to keep our sanity intact".

Families waited on Tuesday, heavy suitcases in hand, for the few buses heading south from the capital, according to AFP reporters, as more people use rare lulls in the fighting to escape Khartoum.

But, as many have lost power and internet connections, residents are finding it increasingly difficult to get reliable information.

Misinformation

Misinformation has proliferated on social media, confusing civilians anxious for accurate news about attacks and reported looting, how safe it is to move and what pharmacies are still open.

The current toll is at least 185 people killed and more than 1,800 injured, according to the UN.

The true number is thought to be far higher, with many wounded unable to reach hospitals, which are themselves being shelled, according to the official doctors' union.

Bullet holes riddle the facade of a building in Khartoum. By - (AFP)

Four hospitals in the greater Khartoum area have been "shelled and evacuated", it said. Across the country, 16 others are "out of service", it added, while those still operating face "severe shortages" including of medical staff, water and food supplies.

Civilians are running out of food as the few grocery stores that remain open have been unable to replenish dwindling stocks.

The fighting has damaged aircraft and brought a halt to flights to and from Khartoum airport.

Satellite photos show damaged warplanes at the airports in Merowe and El Obeid.

The Red Cross and the World Health Organization stressed Tuesday the need for humanitarian aid corridors.

Aid work suspended

Both generals have positioned themselves as saviours of Sudan and guardians of democracy -- in a country which has known only brief democratic interludes.

A composite picture shows General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan (L) and paramilitary commander Mohamed Hamdan Daglo (R). By Yasuyoshi CHIBA, Ashraf SHAZLY (AFP/File)

The 2021 coup which the generals orchestrated derailed a transition to civilian rule.

The Forces of Freedom and Change, the main civilian bloc ousted from power in that coup, rejected "the total war the generals have unleashed to destroy everything in their path".

Blinken said a US diplomatic convoy came under fire Monday in a "reckless" action which caused no injuries.

Khartoum residents queue for bread. By - (AFP)

Late Monday, the European Union's top diplomat Josep Borrell reported that the EU ambassador "was assaulted" in his own home, despite the obligation of Sudanese authorities to protect diplomatic premises.

The Sudanese foreign ministry blamed the RSF for attacking diplomatic staff.

The battles that began Saturday followed bitter disagreements between Burhan and Daglo over the planned integration of the RSF into the regular army -- a key condition for a final deal aimed at resuming the democratic transition.

Both claim to be in control of key sites, including the airport and the presidential palace -- none of which could be independently verified.

A number of organisations have temporarily suspended operations in the country, where one-third of the population needs aid and three UN World Food Programme staff are among the dead.

Influential northern neighbour Egypt said it had discussed with Saudi Arabia, South Sudan and Djibouti -- all close allies of Sudan -- "the need to make every effort to preserve stability and safety".
Dr. Barbara Ayesha Anawana Karbo, Head of the Accident and Emergency Department at the International Maritime Hospital (IMaH), has urged parents to discuss their health conditions with their children so that they can be helped in an emergency.

"It is unfortunate that some parents keep their health conditions hidden from their children; let us teach our children and explain our health issues; in case of an emergency in the house, they would serve as the first line of the emergency response team to save your life," Dr. Karbo said.

She stated that those suffering from asthma, epilepsy, and sudden panic episodes, among other conditions, should not keep their illness hidden from their immediate family members, particularly youngsters living in the same house.

Dr. Karbo, who is also an Emergency Medicine Physician, gave the advice at the weekly "Your Health! Our Collective Responsibility," a Ghana News Agency Tema Regional Office initiative aimed at promoting communication on health-related topics and providing a platform for the dissemination of health information in order to influence personal health choices by improving health literacy.

"Your Health! Our Collective Responsibility" is a public health advocacy platform launched by the Ghana News Agency Tema Regional Office to investigate the dimensions of four health communication approaches: informing, instructive, persuasive, and prompting.

Speaking on the issue of "First aid at home and basic life support," Dr. Karbo stated that dynamics were shifting and that it was past time for Ghanaian women, in particular, to instill some basic health values customized to their circumstances at home.

She warned that in an emergency, children may be the first point of contact and that their actions could easily save a life.

"In some countries, they teach their children how to call emergency provider phone numbers and perform Basic Life Support, so if it's cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), they will start before officers arrive," she explained.

According to the Accident and Emergency Specialist, the youngsters needed to know what type of medical problem their parents are going through, where the drugs were kept, and what to do if the need arose.

She believes that dealing with a significant disease in the family can provide youngsters with an opportunity to learn about the body, illness, treatment, and healing process.

She went on to argue that children can deal with the truth, but that most people underestimate them, claiming that they feel concerned when they are not informed and something bad happens.

According to Mr. Francis Ameyibor, Regional Manager of Ghana News Agency Tema, "Your Health! Our Collective Responsibility" is part of a joint effort to build a way of disseminating health information.

He stated that available data suggest that initiatives by the media to enhance public health can assist raise awareness of a health problem, increase the level of knowledge about health topics, and make a health topic or problem more salient, so sensitizing the public.

As a result, Mr. Ameyibor urged both traditional and social media managers to spend time engaging health professionals to educate the public, stating that "the education we offer today through our media platform may save a life tomorrow."

-CDA Consult II Contributor
As part of its efforts to help improve the culture for quality in the Ghanaian cashew value chain in the face of fluctuating prices and other challenges, the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) with funding from the Swiss Government is implementing the Global Quality and Standards Programme (GQSP) in Ghana with the cashew value chain actors to assess the quality awareness utilising the UNIDO developed culture tool.

As a follow-up, the programme implementers organized a roundtable conference here in Accra to discuss with all the main actors the key findings of their assessment and help them establish modalities for improving the quality culture and entrenching the available standards, among others.

The discussion came at a time when actors believe that government must help to address cashew price fluctuations and disparities in the local market to protect farmers interest and guarantee them sustainable livelihoods.

The discussion brought in more than 35 key stakeholders from government agencies, academia, farmers and the private sector, to discuss the culture of quality in the Ghanaian cashew value chain.

Speaking at the roundtable conference, Chief Technical Advisor, Global Quality and Standards Programme (GQSP), Ama Nyame Mogyabun explained that the programme will help improve the culture for quality in the Ghanaian cashew value chain in the face of fluctuating prices and other challenges such as export competitiveness and standards compliance of SMEs to facilitate their access to international market.

She emphasised that the programme is aimed at assessing the culture for quality in the selected value chains using a UNIDO developed tool.

The tool will help to establish quality awareness with the industry as well as the challenges of Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs).

UNIDO will then intervene to help increase quality awareness in the industry by addressing the identified challenges with SMEs in the cashew, oil palm and cocoa value chains; through three complementary expected outcomes which include: technical competence and sustainability of national quality infrastructure system and selected value chains are enhanced, SMEs compliance with international standards and technical regulations is enhanced and also make sure awareness for quality is enhanced in Ghana.

Based on the work we did, we realised that the value chain areas requiring the most intervention are quality infrastructure institutions and enterprises within the supply value chain, she revealed.

Deputy Director, in charge of Operations at the Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA), Foster Boateng explained that the TCDA was inaugurated in September 2020, as a regulatory body for six tree crops namely Cashew, Shea, Mango, Coconut, Rubber, and Oil palm.

We are still fine tuning our five-year National Tree Crop Strategy for the various sectors with our industry players within the cashew value chain to help develop the potentials of the local cashew subsector.

We are also developing a digital platform to consolidate all cashew farmers and eliminate the problem of geographic boundaries. With this achieved, we can interact with stakeholders consistently while providing them with resources to increase productivity.

We all need to help strengthen the governance structures of the cashew value chain Associations and facilitate dialogue between producers and buyers, he added.

Trading and Surveillance Officer at the Ghana Commodity Exchange, Wendy Malm explained that their work is more of connecting Markets, connecting people and providing opportunities for cashew traders in Ghana.

The open and accessible price discovery system offered by GCX will reduce the difficulty that farmers, processors and traders of cashew face when it comes to determining the price of cashew, she pointed out.

Scientific Officer at the Ghana Standards Authority, Nathaniel Kofi Brakoh mentioned that quality and standard can be achieved if we develop and improve our infrastructures within the value chain.

Other crops such as cocoa and palm nuts have standards and regulations, so we thought it wise that we also regulate cashew to enable the country to reap more benefits from it, he said.

Coordinator, Global Quality and Standards Programme Ghana, Abena Safoa Osei in her closing remarks thanked the over 35 stakeholders representing the various actors for their time and rich contributions to help structure the cashew value in Ghana and beyond.

I strongly believe that farmers and cashew processors lives will improve with the introduction of quality and standards culture in the Ghanaian cashew value chain, she added.
19.04.2023 LISTEN

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has described as alarming the rate of power theft in the Ashanti Region.

According to ECG, most companies and households in the region are not paying for the power they consume.

The Head of Disconnection for ECG in the Ashanti Region for ECG, Ing Kofi Danso said this in an interview with Captain Koda on the Kumasi-based OTEC 102.9 FM's morning show Nyansapo on Tuesday, April 18, 2023.

Speaking to Captain Koda, host of the show, Ing Kofi Danso said ECG after deploying task force to audit their meters have discovered most of their customers connected power illegally.

His comment follows the disconnection of the Kumasi Central Police from the national grid over alleged power theft.

The command was cited by the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) for engaging in illegal connection and as a result, has been disconnected from the national grid.

Ing Kofi Danso said ECG has met with the leadership of the Kumasi Central Police to resolve the problem.

He however cautioned the public to desist from engaging in any form of illegal connection to avoid being prosecuted.
The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has begun a three-day First Senior Managers Meeting for the year 2023 in the Ashanti Regional capital Kumasi.

GHS with support from its partners is expected to interrogate and find pragmatic ways key actors in the health sector can implement policies to better serve all citizens in Ghana with quality and accessible health care.

The meeting which is on the theme "Enhancing Primary Healthcare Approaches towards Achieving Universal Health Coverage" commenced on Tuesday, April 18, 2023 and is expected to end on Thursday, April 20, 2023.

Addressing the participants at the opening session of the meeting, the Chairman of the GHS Government Council, Dr. Sefah Sarpong Bediakoh said the meeting was focused on past performance and ways to improve the healthcare systems in the country.

Dr Bediako pledged their commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage. He observed that there was still a lot to be done to develop a robust health system despite previous efforts put into the provision of quality and accessible health practices in the sector.

He however commended health workers in the country for putting their lives on the line to work and protect Ghanaians during the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The program had in attendance the Director General for GHS, Dr Patrick Kuma Abaogye, Senior Managers from Regional and National Directorates, a representative of the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Ashanti Regional Minister among other stakeholders in the health sector.
TELUS International (Cda) Inc. (NYSE:TIXT  Get Rating) was the target of a large decline in short interest during the month of March. As of March 31st, there was short interest totalling 762,200 shares, a decline of 19.8% from the March 15th total of 950,100 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 130,500 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 5.8 days. Approximately 1.1% of the shares of the company are short sold.

TELUS International (Cda) Stock Up 0.0 %

Shares of TIXT traded up $0.01 during mid-day trading on Monday, hitting $20.53. 56,218 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 126,316. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.48, a quick ratio of 1.26 and a current ratio of 1.26. TELUS International has a fifty-two week low of $17.65 and a fifty-two week high of $31.52. The company has a market cap of $1.50 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 29.67, a P/E/G ratio of 2.02 and a beta of 0.72. The stocks 50-day moving average is $21.01 and its 200-day moving average is $21.75.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

Several equities analysts have commented on the company. Morgan Stanley cut their price target on TELUS International (Cda) from $23.00 to $22.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a report on Friday, February 10th. Bank of America raised TELUS International (Cda) from a neutral rating to a buy rating and set a $26.00 price target for the company in a report on Wednesday, January 11th. Wells Fargo & Company cut their price target on TELUS International (Cda) from $30.00 to $27.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a report on Monday, January 9th. Royal Bank of Canada cut their price target on TELUS International (Cda) from $38.00 to $29.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a report on Friday, February 10th. Finally, National Bankshares dropped their target price on TELUS International (Cda) from $38.00 to $35.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a report on Friday, February 10th. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and nine have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $27.00.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On TELUS International (Cda)

TELUS International (Cda) Company Profile

A number of hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Lazard Asset Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of TELUS International (Cda) during the 1st quarter valued at about $46,000. BNP Paribas Arbitrage SNC bought a new stake in TELUS International (Cda) in the third quarter valued at $101,000. Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB publ grew its position in TELUS International (Cda) by 343.0% in the third quarter. Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB publ now owns 5,094 shares of the companys stock valued at $133,000 after acquiring an additional 3,944 shares during the period. Tower Research Capital LLC TRC boosted its stake in TELUS International (Cda) by 388.5% in the third quarter. Tower Research Capital LLC TRC now owns 5,154 shares of the companys stock worth $135,000 after purchasing an additional 4,099 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Barclays PLC boosted its stake in TELUS International (Cda) by 204.8% in the third quarter. Barclays PLC now owns 6,400 shares of the companys stock worth $167,000 after purchasing an additional 4,300 shares in the last quarter. 18.27% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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TELUS International (Cda) Inc provides customer experience and digital business services in Europe, North America, the Asia-Pacific, and the Central America. It offers digital experience solutions, such as AI and bots, omnichannel CX, mobility solutions, cloud contact center, big data, platform transformation, and UX/UI design; and customer experience solutions, including work anywhere/work from home, customer care, technical support, sales growth and retention, and healthcare/patient experience.

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UnitedHealth Group (NYSE:UNH  Get Rating) updated its FY 2023 earnings guidance on Monday. The company provided EPS guidance of $24.50-$25.00 for the period, compared to the consensus EPS estimate of $24.94. The company issued revenue guidance of -.

UnitedHealth Group Price Performance

Shares of NYSE UNH traded down $6.44 during mid-day trading on Monday, hitting $505.35. 3,651,637 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 3,628,771. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.67, a current ratio of 0.77 and a quick ratio of 0.77. UnitedHealth Group has a twelve month low of $449.70 and a twelve month high of $558.10. The company has a market cap of $471.42 billion, a PE ratio of 23.09, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.44 and a beta of 0.67. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $485.46 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $507.06.

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UnitedHealth Group (NYSE:UNH  Get Rating) last issued its earnings results on Friday, April 14th. The healthcare conglomerate reported $6.26 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $6.24 by $0.02. UnitedHealth Group had a return on equity of 27.04% and a net margin of 6.21%. The business had revenue of $91.93 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $89.77 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $5.49 EPS. The firms revenue was up 14.7% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, equities research analysts forecast that UnitedHealth Group will post 24.87 EPS for the current fiscal year.

UnitedHealth Group Dividend Announcement

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, March 21st. Investors of record on Monday, March 13th were paid a $1.65 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Friday, March 10th. This represents a $6.60 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.31%. UnitedHealth Groups payout ratio is 30.18%.

Several research analysts have recently weighed in on UNH shares. Loop Capital upped their price target on shares of UnitedHealth Group from $590.00 to $600.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Monday. StockNews.com lowered shares of UnitedHealth Group from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a report on Thursday, April 6th. Raymond James reissued a strong-buy rating and issued a $630.00 price target on shares of UnitedHealth Group in a research note on Friday. UBS Group reduced their price target on shares of UnitedHealth Group from $590.00 to $550.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, January 18th. Finally, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft raised their target price on shares of UnitedHealth Group from $617.00 to $627.00 in a report on Monday. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, thirteen have assigned a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $600.89.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On UnitedHealth Group

A number of large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in UNH. Axiom Financial Strategies LLC purchased a new stake in shares of UnitedHealth Group during the first quarter valued at approximately $210,000. McGowan Group Asset Management Inc. raised its position in UnitedHealth Group by 8.9% in the first quarter. McGowan Group Asset Management Inc. now owns 744 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock worth $379,000 after acquiring an additional 61 shares in the last quarter. Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. raised its holdings in UnitedHealth Group by 31.8% during the 1st quarter. Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. now owns 250,196 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock worth $127,592,000 after buying an additional 60,300 shares during the period. MAS Advisors LLC grew its stake in shares of UnitedHealth Group by 10.8% in the 1st quarter. MAS Advisors LLC now owns 463 shares of the healthcare conglomerates stock valued at $241,000 after buying an additional 45 shares in the last quarter. Finally, First Western Trust Bank acquired a new stake in UnitedHealth Group in the 1st quarter worth approximately $875,000. 86.31% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

About UnitedHealth Group

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UnitedHealth Group, Inc engages in the provision of health care coverage, software, and data consultancy services. It operates through the following segments: UnitedHealthcare, OptumHealth, OptumInsight, and OptumRx. The UnitedHealthcare segment utilizes Optums capabilities to help coordinate patient care, improve affordability of medical care, analyze cost trends, manage pharmacy benefits, work with care providers more effectively, and create a simpler consumer experience.

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Q3 Asset Management purchased a new position in shares of Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF (NYSEARCA:VGK  Get Rating) in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm purchased 149,588 shares of the exchange traded funds stock, valued at approximately $8,293,000. Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF accounts for 5.6% of Q3 Asset Managements holdings, making the stock its 8th largest position. Q3 Asset Management owned about 0.05% of Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of VGK. Lansing Street Advisors boosted its holdings in Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF by 598.7% in the third quarter. Lansing Street Advisors now owns 531 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $25,000 after purchasing an additional 455 shares during the period. CENTRAL TRUST Co boosted its holdings in Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF by 214.3% in the 4th quarter. CENTRAL TRUST Co now owns 550 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $30,000 after purchasing an additional 375 shares in the last quarter. CWM LLC raised its position in shares of Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF by 221.6% during the 3rd quarter. CWM LLC now owns 775 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $36,000 after purchasing an additional 534 shares during the last quarter. Wipfli Financial Advisors LLC acquired a new position in shares of Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $55,000. Finally, Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich acquired a new position in Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF in the 3rd quarter valued at $55,000.

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Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF Stock Up 0.5 %

Shares of VGK stock traded up $0.32 on Tuesday, reaching $63.06. 703,488 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 3,731,695. The stock has a market cap of $17.18 billion, a P/E ratio of 11.10 and a beta of 0.96. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $60.22 and a two-hundred day moving average of $56.65. Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF has a 1-year low of $44.99 and a 1-year high of $63.33.

About Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF

Vanguard European Stock Index Fund is an exchange-traded fund. The Fund seeks to track the performance of a benchmark index that measures the investment return of stocks issued by Companies located in the markets of Europe. The Fund on focuses indexing investment approach by investing all, or substantially all, of its assets in the common stocks included in the FTSE Developed Europe All Cap Index.

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180 Wealth Advisors LLC decreased its position in iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF (BATS:USMV  Get Rating) by 1.7% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The fund owned 34,962 shares of the companys stock after selling 622 shares during the quarter. 180 Wealth Advisors LLCs holdings in iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF were worth $2,549,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other large investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. Cooper Financial Group increased its holdings in iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF by 6.9% during the 4th quarter. Cooper Financial Group now owns 6,886 shares of the companys stock valued at $496,000 after purchasing an additional 446 shares in the last quarter. Laurel Wealth Advisors Inc. lifted its position in iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF by 27.1% during the 3rd quarter. Laurel Wealth Advisors Inc. now owns 5,067 shares of the companys stock valued at $335,000 after purchasing an additional 1,081 shares during the period. Mayflower Financial Advisors LLC boosted its position in shares of iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF by 4.5% in the 4th quarter. Mayflower Financial Advisors LLC now owns 132,152 shares of the companys stock worth $9,528,000 after purchasing an additional 5,667 shares during the last quarter. MADDEN SECURITIES Corp bought a new position in shares of iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF in the 4th quarter worth $29,000. Finally, Enzi Wealth boosted its position in shares of iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF by 21.1% in the 4th quarter. Enzi Wealth now owns 76,924 shares of the companys stock worth $5,592,000 after purchasing an additional 13,382 shares during the last quarter.

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iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF Trading Up 0.5 %

Shares of BATS:USMV traded up $0.34 during midday trading on Tuesday, hitting $73.99. The company had a trading volume of 1,529,155 shares. iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF has a 12 month low of $47.44 and a 12 month high of $55.45. The stock has a market cap of $30.90 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 20.17 and a beta of 0.76. The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of $71.77 and a 200 day simple moving average of $71.68.

About iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF

The iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF (USMV) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the MSCI USA Minimum Volatility (USD) index. The fund tracks an index of US-listed firms selected and weighted to create a low-volatility portfolio subject to various constraints. USMV was launched on Oct 18, 2011 and is managed by BlackRock.

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Agnico Eagle Mines (TSE:AEM  Get Rating) (NYSE:AEM) had its price target hoisted by stock analysts at National Bank Financial from C$76.00 to C$95.00 in a research report issued to clients and investors on Tuesday, The Fly reports. National Bank Financials price objective points to a potential upside of 25.13% from the companys previous close. National Bank Financial also issued estimates for Agnico Eagle Mines Q1 2023 earnings at $0.66 EPS, FY2023 earnings at $3.05 EPS and FY2024 earnings at $3.77 EPS.

Several other research firms have also issued reports on AEM. Barclays began coverage on Agnico Eagle Mines in a report on Friday, February 17th. They set a buy rating and a C$62.00 price target for the company. National Bankshares boosted their price target on Agnico Eagle Mines from C$76.00 to C$95.00 in a report on Tuesday. Canaccord Genuity Group cut their price target on Agnico Eagle Mines from C$90.00 to C$84.00 in a report on Thursday, March 2nd. Finally, Veritas Investment Research set a C$82.10 price objective on Agnico Eagle Mines and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, December 21st. Six research analysts have rated the stock with a buy rating, According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Buy and a consensus target price of C$78.71.

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Agnico Eagle Mines Stock Performance

Shares of AEM traded down C$0.56 during trading hours on Tuesday, hitting C$75.92. The stock had a trading volume of 130,295 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,951,267. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 9.19, a current ratio of 2.30 and a quick ratio of 0.89. Agnico Eagle Mines has a 12 month low of C$48.88 and a 12 month high of C$79.37. The firm has a market capitalization of C$34.77 billion, a PE ratio of 37.31, a PEG ratio of -1.52 and a beta of 0.80. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of C$68.74 and a 200 day moving average price of C$67.72.

Insider Buying and Selling

Agnico Eagle Mines ( TSE:AEM Get Rating ) (NYSE:AEM) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, February 16th. The company reported C$0.55 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of C$0.53 by C$0.02. Agnico Eagle Mines had a return on equity of 6.03% and a net margin of 11.67%. The business had revenue of C$1.88 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of C$1.91 billion. Analysts anticipate that Agnico Eagle Mines will post 2.1595896 EPS for the current year.

In other news, Senior Officer Ammar Al-Joundi bought 8,200 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, February 22nd. The shares were bought at an average cost of C$62.17 per share, for a total transaction of C$509,822.70. 0.11% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Agnico Eagle Mines Company Profile

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Agnico Eagle Mines Limited engages in the exploration, development, and production of mineral properties in Canada, Mexico, and Finland. It operates through Northern Business and Southern Business segments. The company primarily produces and sells gold deposits, as well as explores for silver, zinc, and copper deposits.

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Brent Sacobie was fishing for baby eels for the first time this year and is disappointed Fisheries and Oceans Canada suspended the elver fishery for 45 days starting April 15. (submitted by Brent Sacobie - image credit)

One Wolastoqey man says he spent thousands of dollars on gear to fish for elvers (baby eels) this year and worries he won't be able to recoup that money after the federal government shut down the elver fishery this past weekend.

Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) shut down the elver fishery in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia on April 15 for 45 days because of conservation and safety concerns, after reports of violence and overfishing by unauthorized harvesters.

This year was Brent Sacobie's first time trying to cash in on the lucrative industry, with prices reaching $5,000 a kilogram in 2022.

"I have four kids and I have a lot of mouths to feed," said Sacobie, who is from Bilijk, Kingsclear First Nation, 13 kilometres west of Fredericton.

Brent Sacobie/Facebook

He said he heard stories from friends about how great the fishery was so he invested money in dip nets, waders, coolers and gas to travel out to the estuaries.

Sacobie caught one-third of his allotted 1.5 kilogram quota before the shutdown.

Sacobie said on the rivers he fished he didn't see any violence and he wants to see Indigenous leadership, the commercial industry and the government come together to reopen the fishery.

"We all need financial stability in our lives and we all need that security," said Sacobie.

The elver fishery has grown in value in recent years. The elvers or baby eels are sold to markets in China and Japan where they are raised to adulthood for food. The elver season typically runs from mid-March until June.

Patrick Polchies, fisheries director for Bilijk, said 68 people were registered to harvest elvers for his community.

He called the shutdown a "destruction of hope for so many people."

The Wolastoqey Nation was allotted 750 kilograms of quota to divide among its six communities, said Polchies.

Polchies said his community's 103 kilogram piece of that quota is a stark contrast to the more than 1,000 kilogram quota allotted to one commercial licence. There are nine commercial licences in Atlantic Canada.

Story continues

In 2012, the American Eel was assessed as threatened by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada, which is why Mi'kmaw Elder Gordon LaBillois applauds the shutdown.

Nelson Cloud

"If they have ... the data to support what they're doing then I think they're doing the right thing," said LaBillois, from Ugpi'ganjig, Eel River Bar First Nation, 250 kilometres north of Moncton.

He said he's not an expert but so much can affect the eel population like climate change and development, he'd rather see the elver fishery slow down so the population can be studied.

He said he does feel for any moderate livelihood harvester affected and said a compromise would be to prioritize Indigenous interests on the eels for now.
Ascent Wealth Partners LLC grew its position in shares of Centene Co. (NYSE:CNC  Get Rating) by 1.5% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 26,085 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 391 shares during the period. Ascent Wealth Partners LLCs holdings in Centene were worth $2,138,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of the business. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD increased its holdings in shares of Centene by 2.8% during the third quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 31,270,675 shares of the companys stock worth $2,433,266,000 after buying an additional 855,690 shares in the last quarter. Alliancebernstein L.P. lifted its position in shares of Centene by 5.7% in the 3rd quarter. Alliancebernstein L.P. now owns 3,399,163 shares of the companys stock worth $264,489,000 after purchasing an additional 183,164 shares during the period. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Centene by 3.5% in the 1st quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 3,226,201 shares of the companys stock valued at $271,614,000 after purchasing an additional 109,994 shares during the period. Scharf Investments LLC boosted its position in shares of Centene by 2.8% during the 3rd quarter. Scharf Investments LLC now owns 2,038,333 shares of the companys stock valued at $158,602,000 after purchasing an additional 55,992 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Fred Alger Management LLC grew its stake in Centene by 864.1% during the third quarter. Fred Alger Management LLC now owns 2,017,665 shares of the companys stock worth $156,995,000 after purchasing an additional 1,808,394 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 93.28% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

CNC has been the topic of several research reports. Barclays dropped their price objective on shares of Centene from $93.00 to $90.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, April 11th. Loop Capital reduced their price objective on Centene from $110.00 to $95.00 in a research note on Wednesday, February 8th. Wells Fargo & Company lowered their target price on Centene from $79.00 to $71.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research report on Tuesday, March 21st. TheStreet lowered shares of Centene from a b rating to a c+ rating in a research note on Tuesday, February 7th. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group dropped their price objective on shares of Centene from $97.00 to $74.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, February 8th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have issued a hold rating, eleven have given a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Centene presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $95.22.

Centene Stock Performance

CNC stock traded down $0.10 during mid-day trading on Tuesday, hitting $68.60. The company had a trading volume of 391,652 shares, compared to its average volume of 3,941,942. Centene Co. has a 12 month low of $61.71 and a 12 month high of $98.53. The stocks fifty day moving average price is $67.64 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $75.75. The firm has a market cap of $37.78 billion, a PE ratio of 33.68, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.80 and a beta of 0.56. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.74, a quick ratio of 1.06 and a current ratio of 1.06.

Centene (NYSE:CNC  Get Rating) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, February 7th. The company reported $0.86 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.87 by ($0.01). Centene had a net margin of 0.83% and a return on equity of 12.98%. The firm had revenue of $35.56 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $35.37 billion. During the same period last year, the company posted $1.01 earnings per share. Centenes revenue for the quarter was up 9.2% on a year-over-year basis. On average, analysts forecast that Centene Co. will post 6.34 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Insider Buying and Selling at Centene

In related news, COO James E. Murray acquired 6,750 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, February 8th. The shares were bought at an average cost of $73.30 per share, for a total transaction of $494,775.00. Following the purchase, the chief operating officer now owns 136,220 shares in the company, valued at approximately $9,984,926. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. In other news, CEO Sarah London bought 30,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, March 17th. The stock was bought at an average price of $62.60 per share, for a total transaction of $1,878,000.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 313,953 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $19,653,457.80. The acquisition was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, COO James E. Murray purchased 6,750 shares of Centene stock in a transaction on Wednesday, February 8th. The shares were acquired at an average price of $73.30 per share, for a total transaction of $494,775.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief operating officer now directly owns 136,220 shares of the companys stock, valued at $9,984,926. The disclosure for this purchase can be found here. Insiders have acquired 46,750 shares of company stock valued at $3,091,605 in the last 90 days. 0.28% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

About Centene

(Get Rating)

Centene Corp. operates as a healthcare enterprise, which engages in the provision of programs and services to government sponsored healthcare programs. It operates through the following segments: Medicaid, Medicare, Commercial, and Other. The company was founded in 1984 and is headquartered in St. Louis, MO.

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Atlas Energy Solutions (NYSE:AESI  Get Rating) quiet period is set to end on Tuesday, April 18th. Atlas Energy Solutions had issued 18,000,000 shares in its IPO on March 9th. The total size of the offering was $324,000,000 based on an initial share price of $18.00. During Atlas Energy Solutions quiet period, insiders and any underwriters involved in the IPO are prevented from issuing any research reports for the company because of SEC regulations. Following the end of the companys quiet period, its expected that the brokerages that served as underwriters on the stock will initiate research coverage on the company.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of equities analysts have issued reports on AESI shares. Bank of America started coverage on Atlas Energy Solutions in a report on Monday, April 3rd. They issued a buy rating and a $23.00 target price for the company. Barclays started coverage on shares of Atlas Energy Solutions in a research report on Monday, April 3rd. They issued an overweight rating and a $25.00 price target for the company. Royal Bank of Canada started coverage on shares of Atlas Energy Solutions in a research report on Monday, April 3rd. They issued an outperform rating and a $25.00 price target for the company. Johnson Rice started coverage on shares of Atlas Energy Solutions in a research report on Wednesday, April 12th. They issued a buy rating and a $24.00 price target for the company. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group assumed coverage on shares of Atlas Energy Solutions in a research report on Monday, April 3rd. They issued a buy rating and a $22.00 price target for the company. Eight analysts have rated the stock with a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of Buy and an average price target of $24.44.

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Atlas Energy Solutions Trading Down 0.1 %

AESI opened at $18.22 on Tuesday. Atlas Energy Solutions has a twelve month low of $15.06 and a twelve month high of $18.92.

Insider Transactions at Atlas Energy Solutions

About Atlas Energy Solutions

In other Atlas Energy Solutions news, insider Ben M. Brigham bought 280,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, March 13th. The stock was acquired at an average price of $18.00 per share, with a total value of $5,040,000.00. Following the completion of the purchase, the insider now directly owns 280,000 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $5,040,000. The purchase was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink . In related news, insider Ben M. Brigham purchased 280,000 shares of Atlas Energy Solutions stock in a transaction on Monday, March 13th. The stock was acquired at an average cost of $18.00 per share, for a total transaction of $5,040,000.00. Following the completion of the acquisition, the insider now owns 280,000 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $5,040,000. The purchase was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink . Also, Director Douglas G. Rogers purchased 3,000 shares of Atlas Energy Solutions stock in a transaction on Monday, March 13th. The stock was bought at an average price of $18.00 per share, with a total value of $54,000.00. Following the completion of the acquisition, the director now directly owns 3,000 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $54,000. The disclosure for this purchase can be found here

(Get Rating)

Atlas Energy Solutions Inc is a provider of proppant and logistics services to customers engaged in the oil and natural gas industry principally within the Permian Basin of West Texas and New Mexico. Atlas Energy Solutions Inc is based in AUSTIN, Texas.

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AtonRa Partners trimmed its holdings in shares of Palantir Technologies Inc. (NYSE:PLTR  Get Rating) by 13.2% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 170,113 shares of the companys stock after selling 25,901 shares during the period. Palantir Technologies makes up about 1.4% of AtonRa Partners holdings, making the stock its 15th biggest position. AtonRa Partners holdings in Palantir Technologies were worth $1,092,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other large investors have also recently bought and sold shares of PLTR. Utah Retirement Systems increased its position in Palantir Technologies by 1.4% in the 3rd quarter. Utah Retirement Systems now owns 95,700 shares of the companys stock worth $778,000 after purchasing an additional 1,300 shares during the last quarter. PFG Advisors increased its position in Palantir Technologies by 9.3% in the 3rd quarter. PFG Advisors now owns 15,873 shares of the companys stock worth $129,000 after purchasing an additional 1,349 shares during the last quarter. Walter & Keenan Wealth Management LLC IN ADV increased its position in Palantir Technologies by 2.2% in the 3rd quarter. Walter & Keenan Wealth Management LLC IN ADV now owns 70,489 shares of the companys stock worth $573,000 after purchasing an additional 1,500 shares during the last quarter. Caisse DE Depot ET Placement DU Quebec boosted its stake in shares of Palantir Technologies by 1.0% during the 1st quarter. Caisse DE Depot ET Placement DU Quebec now owns 153,700 shares of the companys stock worth $2,110,000 after acquiring an additional 1,500 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Chemistry Wealth Management LLC boosted its stake in shares of Palantir Technologies by 8.5% during the 3rd quarter. Chemistry Wealth Management LLC now owns 19,309 shares of the companys stock worth $157,000 after acquiring an additional 1,520 shares in the last quarter. 31.90% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Insider Buying and Selling at Palantir Technologies

In other Palantir Technologies news, insider Ryan D. Taylor sold 153,049 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, February 15th. The stock was sold at an average price of $10.07, for a total value of $1,541,203.43. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now directly owns 281,526 shares in the company, valued at $2,834,966.82. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. In other Palantir Technologies news, Director Lauren Elaina Friedman Stat sold 7,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, March 15th. The stock was sold at an average price of $7.85, for a total value of $54,950.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now directly owns 206,830 shares in the company, valued at $1,623,615.50. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Also, insider Ryan D. Taylor sold 153,049 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, February 15th. The stock was sold at an average price of $10.07, for a total value of $1,541,203.43. Following the transaction, the insider now owns 281,526 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,834,966.82. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last three months, insiders sold 206,462 shares of company stock worth $1,980,256. 13.22% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Palantir Technologies Price Performance

NYSE:PLTR traded up $0.03 during trading hours on Tuesday, hitting $8.83. The companys stock had a trading volume of 10,224,607 shares, compared to its average volume of 39,352,742. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $8.28 and a 200-day simple moving average of $7.74. The company has a market capitalization of $18.56 billion, a P/E ratio of -46.68, a PEG ratio of 3.02 and a beta of 2.86. Palantir Technologies Inc. has a twelve month low of $5.84 and a twelve month high of $13.33.

Palantir Technologies (NYSE:PLTR  Get Rating) last released its quarterly earnings data on Monday, February 13th. The company reported $0.04 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.03 by $0.01. The business had revenue of $508.62 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $504.84 million. Palantir Technologies had a negative return on equity of 11.90% and a negative net margin of 19.61%. Palantir Technologiess revenue was up 17.5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the firm posted $0.02 earnings per share. On average, equities analysts predict that Palantir Technologies Inc. will post 0.05 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several research firms have recently issued reports on PLTR. William Blair reiterated an underperform rating on shares of Palantir Technologies in a research note on Monday, March 27th. Citigroup restated a sell rating and set a $5.00 target price on shares of Palantir Technologies in a research note on Friday, February 3rd. Wolfe Research downgraded Palantir Technologies from a peer perform rating to an underperform rating and set a $4.50 target price for the company. in a research note on Wednesday, December 21st. DA Davidson began coverage on Palantir Technologies in a research note on Tuesday, February 28th. They set a neutral rating and a $8.00 target price for the company. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada restated an underperform rating and set a $5.00 target price on shares of Palantir Technologies in a research note on Thursday, February 23rd. Five research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have issued a hold rating, two have assigned a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Palantir Technologies presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $8.85.

About Palantir Technologies

(Get Rating)

Palantir Technologies Inc builds and deploys software platforms for the intelligence community in the United States to assist in counterterrorism investigations and operations. The company provides palantir gotham, a software platform which enables users to identify patterns hidden deep within datasets, ranging from signals intelligence sources to reports from confidential informants, as well as facilitates the handoff between analysts and operational users, helping operators plan and execute real-world responses to threats that have been identified within the platform.

Further Reading

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding PLTR? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Palantir Technologies Inc. (NYSE:PLTR  Get Rating).

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O Brien Greene & Co. Inc lowered its position in Becton, Dickinson and Company (NYSE:BDX  Get Rating) by 67.3% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 23,899 shares of the medical instruments suppliers stock after selling 49,100 shares during the quarter. Becton, Dickinson and comprises approximately 2.3% of O Brien Greene & Co. Incs investment portfolio, making the stock its 15th biggest holding. O Brien Greene & Co. Incs holdings in Becton, Dickinson and were worth $6,078,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other large investors also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its stake in shares of Becton, Dickinson and by 1.2% in the third quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 25,217,976 shares of the medical instruments suppliers stock valued at $5,619,322,000 after purchasing an additional 305,044 shares during the period. State Street Corp increased its stake in shares of Becton, Dickinson and by 0.9% in the third quarter. State Street Corp now owns 12,640,888 shares of the medical instruments suppliers stock valued at $2,816,769,000 after purchasing an additional 109,733 shares during the period. Bank of New York Mellon Corp increased its stake in shares of Becton, Dickinson and by 5.0% in the third quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 3,239,476 shares of the medical instruments suppliers stock valued at $721,851,000 after purchasing an additional 152,826 shares during the period. Veritas Asset Management LLP increased its stake in shares of Becton, Dickinson and by 0.9% in the third quarter. Veritas Asset Management LLP now owns 2,425,453 shares of the medical instruments suppliers stock valued at $540,464,000 after purchasing an additional 21,183 shares during the period. Finally, Mitsubishi UFJ Kokusai Asset Management Co. Ltd. increased its stake in shares of Becton, Dickinson and by 913.6% in the third quarter. Mitsubishi UFJ Kokusai Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 1,840,659 shares of the medical instruments suppliers stock valued at $410,154,000 after purchasing an additional 1,659,056 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 87.08% of the companys stock.

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Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, EVP Richard Byrd sold 1,421 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, February 3rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $248.60, for a total value of $353,260.60. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 4,119 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,023,983.40. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Company insiders own 0.31% of the companys stock.

Becton, Dickinson and Price Performance

Becton, Dickinson and stock traded down $0.69 during mid-day trading on Tuesday, hitting $255.59. The companys stock had a trading volume of 134,227 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,072,366. The company has a quick ratio of 0.60, a current ratio of 1.07 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.56. The stock has a market capitalization of $72.56 billion, a P/E ratio of 48.35, a P/E/G ratio of 2.70 and a beta of 0.54. Becton, Dickinson and Company has a twelve month low of $215.90 and a twelve month high of $271.37. The stocks fifty day moving average price is $242.56 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $241.30.

Becton, Dickinson and (NYSE:BDX  Get Rating) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, February 2nd. The medical instruments supplier reported $2.98 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.68 by $0.30. The firm had revenue of $4.59 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.59 billion. Becton, Dickinson and had a net margin of 8.47% and a return on equity of 13.52%. The firms quarterly revenue was down 2.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted $3.64 earnings per share. Research analysts forecast that Becton, Dickinson and Company will post 12.19 earnings per share for the current year.

Becton, Dickinson and Dividend Announcement

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 31st. Investors of record on Friday, March 10th were paid a $0.91 dividend. This represents a $3.64 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.42%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, March 9th. Becton, Dickinson ands dividend payout ratio is 68.68%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

BDX has been the topic of several analyst reports. Piper Sandler raised their price target on shares of Becton, Dickinson and from $245.00 to $260.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Thursday, February 2nd. Evercore ISI lowered their price objective on shares of Becton, Dickinson and from $280.00 to $275.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Tuesday, April 4th. Bank of America upgraded shares of Becton, Dickinson and from a neutral rating to a buy rating and raised their price objective for the company from $250.00 to $290.00 in a research note on Tuesday, January 3rd. Morgan Stanley raised their price objective on shares of Becton, Dickinson and from $290.00 to $295.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Friday, February 3rd. Finally, StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of Becton, Dickinson and in a research note on Thursday, March 16th. They set a buy rating on the stock. Two analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and seven have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $272.44.

About Becton, Dickinson and

(Get Rating)

Becton, Dickinson & Co engages in the development, manufacture, and sale of medical supplies, devices, laboratory equipment, and diagnostic products. It operates through the following segments: BD Medical, BD Life Sciences, and BD Interventional. The BD Medical segment produces medical technologies and devices that are used to help improve healthcare delivery.

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UBS Group upgraded shares of Braskem (NYSE:BAK  Get Rating) from a neutral rating to a buy rating in a research note released on Friday morning, The Fly reports.

Separately, Citigroup raised shares of Braskem from a neutral rating to a buy rating in a report on Tuesday, March 28th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, two have issued a hold rating and three have given a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Hold.

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Braskem Trading Down 1.3 %

BAK stock opened at $8.32 on Friday. The companys 50-day simple moving average is $7.73 and its 200 day simple moving average is $9.50. Braskem has a 52 week low of $6.26 and a 52 week high of $19.64. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 7.75, a quick ratio of 0.84 and a current ratio of 1.42. The company has a market capitalization of $3.76 billion, a PE ratio of -41.60 and a beta of 1.70.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Braskem

Braskem Company Profile

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the company. Advisor Group Holdings Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of Braskem by 156.6% in the 1st quarter. Advisor Group Holdings Inc. now owns 1,740 shares of the companys stock worth $33,000 after buying an additional 1,062 shares during the period. Shilanski & Associates Inc. acquired a new stake in Braskem in the 4th quarter worth approximately $488,000. Atlas Capital Advisors LLC increased its position in shares of Braskem by 85.9% in the 4th quarter. Atlas Capital Advisors LLC now owns 4,298 shares of the companys stock valued at $40,000 after acquiring an additional 1,986 shares during the period. Bank of America Corp DE lifted its holdings in shares of Braskem by 55.0% during the first quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 8,700 shares of the companys stock worth $162,000 after purchasing an additional 3,087 shares during the period. Finally, UBS Group AG grew its position in Braskem by 1,640.2% during the 3rd quarter. UBS Group AG now owns 9,693 shares of the companys stock worth $94,000 after purchasing an additional 9,136 shares during the period. 0.01% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

(Get Rating)

Braskem SA engages in the manufacture of petrochemicals and other related products. It operates through the following segments: Brazil, USA, and Europe and Mexico. The Brazil segment includes production and sale of chemicals, supply of electricity, and production and sale of PE. The USA and Europe segment involves production, operation, and sale of polypropylene in the United States and Germany.

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Capital Power Co. (OTCMKTS:CPXWF  Get Rating) was the recipient of a large increase in short interest in the month of March. As of March 31st, there was short interest totalling 2,361,900 shares, an increase of 99.0% from the March 15th total of 1,186,800 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 600 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 3,936.5 days.

Capital Power Price Performance

OTCMKTS CPXWF remained flat at $33.17 during trading hours on Monday. 735 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 4,329. Capital Power has a one year low of $29.39 and a one year high of $39.87. The firm has a fifty day moving average of $31.10 and a 200 day moving average of $32.72.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

CPXWF has been the subject of several research reports. CIBC lifted their target price on shares of Capital Power from C$50.00 to C$52.00 in a report on Tuesday, January 10th. National Bank Financial lifted their target price on shares of Capital Power from C$50.00 to C$53.00 in a report on Friday, January 27th. Finally, Raymond James dropped their target price on shares of Capital Power from C$53.00 to C$50.00 in a report on Thursday, March 2nd.

Capital Power Company Profile

Capital Power Corp. engages in the development, acquisition, construction, operation, and optimization of power generation facilities. It operates through the Canada and U.S. geographical segments. The Canada segment refers to the Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario. The U.S. segment includes North Carolina, New Mexico, Kansas, Alabama, Arizona, North Dakota, Illinois, Texas, and Michigan.

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Cathay Pacific Airways Limited (OTCMKTS:CPCAY  Get Rating) was the recipient of a significant growth in short interest in the month of March. As of March 31st, there was short interest totalling 5,600 shares, a growth of 33.3% from the March 15th total of 4,200 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 2,500 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 2.2 days.

Cathay Pacific Airways Stock Performance

Shares of CPCAY remained flat at $4.93 during trading hours on Monday. The company had a trading volume of 133 shares, compared to its average volume of 6,288. Cathay Pacific Airways has a 52-week low of $4.50 and a 52-week high of $5.76. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $4.86 and a 200-day moving average price of $5.04.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

CPCAY has been the subject of a number of analyst reports. Citigroup started coverage on Cathay Pacific Airways in a report on Friday, December 23rd. They issued a buy rating for the company. HSBC cut Cathay Pacific Airways from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, March 9th.

Cathay Pacific Airways Company Profile

Cathay Pacific Airways Limited, together with its subsidiaries, operates as a carrier of international passengers and air cargo. The company conducts airline operations principally to and from Hong Kong. It also provides property investment, travel reward program, travel tour operator, financial, aircraft leasing and acquisition facilitation, airline catering, information processing, aircraft ramp handling, laundry and dry cleaning, ground handling, aircraft engineering, cargo carriage, airport ground engineering support and equipment maintenance, and inventory technical management services.

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CF Industries Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:CF  Get Rating) dropped 5% during trading on Tuesday after Wells Fargo & Company lowered their price target on the stock from $109.00 to $102.00. Wells Fargo & Company currently has an overweight rating on the stock. CF Industries traded as low as $74.12 and last traded at $74.14. Approximately 1,591,859 shares changed hands during trading, a decline of 45% from the average daily volume of 2,901,015 shares. The stock had previously closed at $78.01.

CF has been the topic of a number of other reports. Scotiabank upgraded CF Industries from a sector perform rating to a sector outperform rating and set a $95.00 target price on the stock in a research note on Monday, April 10th. HSBC lowered CF Industries from a buy rating to a hold rating and decreased their target price for the stock from $104.00 to $90.00 in a research note on Tuesday, February 21st. StockNews.com assumed coverage on CF Industries in a research note on Thursday, March 16th. They issued a hold rating on the stock. Royal Bank of Canada decreased their target price on CF Industries from $125.00 to $110.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, April 13th. Finally, Credit Suisse Group restated an underperform rating and issued a $75.00 target price on shares of CF Industries in a research note on Thursday, February 16th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have assigned a hold rating and seven have given a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $101.00.

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Institutional Inflows and Outflows

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Resonant Capital Advisors LLC increased its holdings in shares of CF Industries by 2.3% in the 3rd quarter. Resonant Capital Advisors LLC now owns 4,272 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $411,000 after purchasing an additional 98 shares in the last quarter. Mizuho Securities Co. Ltd. increased its holdings in shares of CF Industries by 24.4% in the 3rd quarter. Mizuho Securities Co. Ltd. now owns 510 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $36,000 after purchasing an additional 100 shares in the last quarter. Kentucky Retirement Systems increased its holdings in shares of CF Industries by 0.7% in the 3rd quarter. Kentucky Retirement Systems now owns 15,598 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $1,501,000 after purchasing an additional 116 shares in the last quarter. Sage Rhino Capital LLC increased its holdings in shares of CF Industries by 1.5% in the 3rd quarter. Sage Rhino Capital LLC now owns 7,914 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $762,000 after purchasing an additional 119 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Raymond James Trust N.A. increased its holdings in shares of CF Industries by 2.6% in the 3rd quarter. Raymond James Trust N.A. now owns 4,661 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $448,000 after purchasing an additional 119 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 92.94% of the companys stock.

CF Industries Trading Down 4.8 %

The firm has a market cap of $14.56 billion, a P/E ratio of 4.78, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.35 and a beta of 1.01. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $78.80 and a 200 day simple moving average of $90.40. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.38, a quick ratio of 3.22 and a current ratio of 3.69.

CF Industries (NYSE:CF  Get Rating) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, February 16th. The basic materials company reported $4.35 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $4.13 by $0.22. The firm had revenue of $2.61 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.80 billion. CF Industries had a return on equity of 48.59% and a net margin of 29.91%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 2.7% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the business posted $3.71 EPS. On average, research analysts expect that CF Industries Holdings, Inc. will post 9.5 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

CF Industries Dividend Announcement

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, February 28th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, February 15th were issued a dividend of $0.40 per share. This represents a $1.60 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.15%. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, February 14th. CF Industriess dividend payout ratio is presently 9.80%.

About CF Industries

(Get Rating)

CF Industries Holdings, Inc engages in the manufacture and distribution of nitrogen fertilizer. The firm owns and operates nitrogen plants and serves agricultural and industrial customers through its distribution system. It operates through following segments: Ammonia, Granular Urea, UAN, AN, and Other.

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CTT  Correios De Portugal, S.A. (OTCMKTS:CTTPY  Get Rating)s share price reached a new 52-week high during trading on Monday . The company traded as high as $7.61 and last traded at $7.61, with a volume of 0 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at $7.61.

CTT  Correios De Portugal Price Performance

The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $7.01 and a 200 day moving average price of $6.12.

CTT  Correios De Portugal Company Profile

(Get Rating)

CTT  Correios De Portugal, SA, together with its subsidiaries, provides postal and financial services worldwide. It operates through Mail, Express & Parcels, Financial Services & Retail, and Bank segments. The company offers courier and urgent mail transport services; postal financial services; and banking services.

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Ecolab Inc. (NYSE:ECL  Get Rating) has been given an average rating of Hold by the seventeen research firms that are currently covering the firm, Marketbeat reports. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell recommendation, seven have given a hold recommendation and eight have issued a buy recommendation on the company. The average 12-month price target among analysts that have issued ratings on the stock in the last year is $169.80.

Several research analysts recently issued reports on ECL shares. Mizuho raised their target price on Ecolab from $158.00 to $163.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Thursday, January 12th. StockNews.com began coverage on Ecolab in a report on Thursday, March 16th. They issued a buy rating on the stock. Barclays raised their price target on shares of Ecolab from $160.00 to $165.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a report on Wednesday, February 15th. Wells Fargo & Company increased their price objective on shares of Ecolab from $168.00 to $175.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, February 15th. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada upgraded shares of Ecolab from a sector perform rating to an outperform rating and boosted their target price for the company from $155.00 to $185.00 in a report on Wednesday, February 15th.

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Ecolab Trading Down 0.3 %

Shares of ECL stock opened at $163.95 on Tuesday. Ecolab has a twelve month low of $131.04 and a twelve month high of $185.50. The stocks fifty day simple moving average is $159.66 and its 200 day simple moving average is $152.27. The company has a quick ratio of 0.88, a current ratio of 1.30 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.11. The firm has a market capitalization of $46.67 billion, a P/E ratio of 42.92, a P/E/G ratio of 2.62 and a beta of 1.00.

Ecolab Dividend Announcement

Ecolab ( NYSE:ECL Get Rating ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, February 14th. The basic materials company reported $1.27 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.25 by $0.02. Ecolab had a return on equity of 18.02% and a net margin of 7.69%. The company had revenue of $3.67 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $3.69 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $1.28 earnings per share. The firms revenue was up 9.1% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, sell-side analysts predict that Ecolab will post 4.96 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, April 17th. Investors of record on Tuesday, March 21st were given a $0.53 dividend. This represents a $2.12 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.29%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, March 20th. Ecolabs payout ratio is currently 55.50%.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other news, EVP Larry L. Berger sold 4,404 shares of Ecolab stock in a transaction dated Friday, March 3rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $162.95, for a total transaction of $717,631.80. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 12,442 shares in the company, valued at $2,027,423.90. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. Corporate insiders own 0.04% of the companys stock.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Ecolab

Several institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Tower Research Capital LLC TRC grew its stake in shares of Ecolab by 122.8% in the 3rd quarter. Tower Research Capital LLC TRC now owns 16,898 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $2,441,000 after acquiring an additional 9,315 shares in the last quarter. Wolverine Asset Management LLC bought a new stake in Ecolab in the 3rd quarter worth about $2,166,000. Newbridge Financial Services Group Inc. increased its stake in Ecolab by 27.0% in the 4th quarter. Newbridge Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 470 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $68,000 after buying an additional 100 shares during the last quarter. Koshinski Asset Management Inc. lifted its position in shares of Ecolab by 12.1% during the 4th quarter. Koshinski Asset Management Inc. now owns 5,440 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $792,000 after buying an additional 588 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Miracle Mile Advisors LLC boosted its stake in shares of Ecolab by 18.0% in the 3rd quarter. Miracle Mile Advisors LLC now owns 4,318 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $624,000 after buying an additional 659 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 86.76% of the companys stock.

About Ecolab

(Get Rating)

Ecolab, Inc engages in the provision of products and services in the field of water, hygiene, and energy. It operates through the following segments: Global Industrial, Global Institutional & Specialty, Global Energy & Life Science, and Other. The Global Industrial segment consists of the water, food and beverage, paper, and downstream operating segments.

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Factory Mutual Insurance Co. increased its position in shares of Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC  Get Rating) by 4.1% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 1,291,364 shares of the financial services providers stock after purchasing an additional 51,390 shares during the quarter. Factory Mutual Insurance Co.s holdings in Wells Fargo & Company were worth $53,320,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also bought and sold shares of WFC. Defender Capital LLC. bought a new stake in Wells Fargo & Company during the first quarter worth about $246,000. Fairfield Bush & CO. acquired a new position in Wells Fargo & Company during the first quarter worth about $124,000. Dakota Wealth Management acquired a new position in Wells Fargo & Company during the first quarter worth about $222,000. Candriam Luxembourg S.C.A. raised its stake in Wells Fargo & Company by 0.3% during the first quarter. Candriam Luxembourg S.C.A. now owns 273,936 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $13,274,000 after acquiring an additional 770 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Zions Bancorporation N.A. raised its stake in Wells Fargo & Company by 24.5% during the first quarter. Zions Bancorporation N.A. now owns 9,630 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $467,000 after acquiring an additional 1,895 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 72.24% of the companys stock.

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Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Wells Fargo & Company news, EVP Kleber Santos sold 34,698 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, February 23rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $46.27, for a total transaction of $1,605,476.46. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 19,590 shares in the company, valued at approximately $906,429.30. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. Company insiders own 0.07% of the companys stock.

Wells Fargo & Company Trading Up 0.2 %

NYSE:WFC traded up $0.07 on Tuesday, reaching $41.37. 3,858,530 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 23,219,758. The firm has a market capitalization of $156.26 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 11.83, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.83 and a beta of 1.12. The companys 50 day moving average is $42.26 and its 200-day moving average is $43.50. The company has a current ratio of 0.83, a quick ratio of 0.83 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.06. Wells Fargo & Company has a 1-year low of $35.25 and a 1-year high of $49.49.

Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC  Get Rating) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Friday, April 14th. The financial services provider reported $1.23 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.15 by $0.08. The firm had revenue of $20.73 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $20.06 billion. Wells Fargo & Company had a return on equity of 10.07% and a net margin of 15.93%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 16.9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the business earned $0.88 EPS. Equities research analysts anticipate that Wells Fargo & Company will post 4.66 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Wells Fargo & Company Announces Dividend

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, March 1st. Shareholders of record on Friday, February 3rd were issued a dividend of $0.30 per share. This represents a $1.20 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.90%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, February 2nd. Wells Fargo & Companys payout ratio is 34.38%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several brokerages have commented on WFC. Jefferies Financial Group downgraded Wells Fargo & Company from a buy rating to a hold rating and lowered their target price for the stock from $49.00 to $46.00 in a research note on Tuesday, January 17th. Cfra raised Wells Fargo & Company to a buy rating and set a $50.00 target price for the company in a research note on Friday, January 13th. StockNews.com assumed coverage on Wells Fargo & Company in a research note on Thursday, March 16th. They issued a hold rating for the company. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft lowered their price objective on Wells Fargo & Company from $60.00 to $50.00 in a research note on Friday, January 6th. Finally, Barclays lowered their price objective on Wells Fargo & Company from $64.00 to $54.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, April 12th. Seven investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, eight have assigned a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Wells Fargo & Company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $49.45.

About Wells Fargo & Company

(Get Rating)

Wells Fargo & Co is a diversified, community-based financial services company. It is engaged in the provision of banking, insurance, investments, mortgage products and services, and consumer and commercial finance. It operates through the following segments: Consumer Banking and Lending, Commercial Banking, Corporate and Investment Banking, and Wealth & Investment Management.

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Farmers & Merchants Investments Inc. cut its holdings in shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (NYSE:TMO  Get Rating) by 10.3% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 5,461 shares of the medical research companys stock after selling 628 shares during the quarter. Farmers & Merchants Investments Inc.s holdings in Thermo Fisher Scientific were worth $3,007,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission.

Several other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Mitsubishi UFJ Kokusai Asset Management Co. Ltd. increased its position in shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific by 394.8% in the third quarter. Mitsubishi UFJ Kokusai Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 1,110,504 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $563,237,000 after purchasing an additional 886,075 shares during the last quarter. Ontario Teachers Pension Plan Board purchased a new position in shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific in the third quarter worth $433,169,000. Canada Pension Plan Investment Board purchased a new position in shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific in the third quarter worth $209,946,000. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its stake in shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific by 1.3% in the third quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 32,166,910 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $16,314,735,000 after buying an additional 406,844 shares during the period. Finally, Veritas Asset Management LLP increased its stake in shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific by 47.3% in the third quarter. Veritas Asset Management LLP now owns 1,067,408 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $541,379,000 after buying an additional 342,924 shares during the period. 85.92% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Insiders Place Their Bets

In related news, Director Jim P. Manzi sold 1,000 shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific stock in a transaction dated Friday, February 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $584.56, for a total transaction of $584,560.00. Following the completion of the sale, the director now owns 14,807 shares of the companys stock, valued at $8,655,579.92. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. In other news, CEO Marc N. Casper sold 1,600 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Tuesday, February 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of $571.96, for a total value of $915,136.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 128,705 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $73,614,111.80. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, Director Jim P. Manzi sold 1,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, February 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $584.56, for a total value of $584,560.00. Following the transaction, the director now directly owns 14,807 shares in the company, valued at approximately $8,655,579.92. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last 90 days, insiders sold 30,100 shares of company stock valued at $16,966,971. 0.43% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Thermo Fisher Scientific Trading Down 0.0 %

Several brokerages recently commented on TMO. StockNews.com raised shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Monday. Evercore ISI cut their price target on shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific from $615.00 to $610.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, April 4th. Citigroup lifted their price target on shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific from $650.00 to $700.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Thursday, February 2nd. Morgan Stanley lifted their price target on shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific from $613.00 to $670.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Thursday, February 2nd. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company cut their price target on shares of Thermo Fisher Scientific from $525.00 to $505.00 and set an underweight rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, January 3rd. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, two have issued a hold rating and ten have issued a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $640.45.

TMO stock opened at $588.60 on Tuesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.66, a current ratio of 1.48 and a quick ratio of 1.15. The company has a market capitalization of $227.02 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 33.39, a PEG ratio of 1.99 and a beta of 0.79. Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. has a 1-year low of $475.77 and a 1-year high of $611.06. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $561.36 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $548.73.

Thermo Fisher Scientific (NYSE:TMO  Get Rating) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, February 1st. The medical research company reported $5.40 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $5.19 by $0.21. Thermo Fisher Scientific had a return on equity of 21.42% and a net margin of 15.47%. The company had revenue of $11.45 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $10.41 billion. During the same period last year, the company earned $6.54 earnings per share. Thermo Fisher Scientifics revenue was up 7.0% on a year-over-year basis. Research analysts anticipate that Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. will post 23.72 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Thermo Fisher Scientific Increases Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, April 14th. Investors of record on Wednesday, March 15th were given a dividend of $0.35 per share. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, March 14th. This represents a $1.40 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.24%. This is an increase from Thermo Fisher Scientifics previous quarterly dividend of $0.30. Thermo Fisher Scientifics dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 7.94%.

Thermo Fisher Scientific Profile

(Get Rating)

Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc engages in the provision of analytical instruments, equipment, reagents and consumables, software, and services for research, analysis, discovery, and diagnostics. It operates through the following segments: Life Sciences Solutions, Analytical Instruments, Specialty Diagnostics, and Laboratory Products and Services.

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Gartner, Inc. (NYSE:IT  Get Rating) was the recipient of a large increase in short interest in March. As of March 31st, there was short interest totalling 1,590,000 shares, an increase of 21.4% from the March 15th total of 1,310,000 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 458,900 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 3.5 days. Approximately 2.2% of the companys stock are sold short.

Gartner Stock Down 1.0 %

Gartner stock traded down $3.11 during trading hours on Tuesday, reaching $316.46. The stock had a trading volume of 69,999 shares, compared to its average volume of 451,798. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 10.77, a current ratio of 0.77 and a quick ratio of 0.77. The company has a market cap of $25.02 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 31.99, a PEG ratio of 5.10 and a beta of 1.28. The businesss 50 day moving average price is $326.09 and its 200-day moving average price is $325.96. Gartner has a 52 week low of $221.39 and a 52 week high of $358.25.

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Gartner (NYSE:IT  Get Rating) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, February 7th. The information technology services provider reported $3.70 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.57 by $1.13. The business had revenue of $1.51 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.45 billion. Gartner had a net margin of 14.75% and a return on equity of 2,645.96%. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 15.2% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $2.99 earnings per share. Sell-side analysts anticipate that Gartner will post 9.49 EPS for the current year.

Insider Activity

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

In other news, EVP Scott Hensel sold 3,007 shares of Gartner stock in a transaction dated Thursday, February 9th. The stock was sold at an average price of $355.00, for a total value of $1,067,485.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 12,885 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $4,574,175. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website . In related news, EVP Scott Hensel sold 3,007 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, February 9th. The shares were sold at an average price of $355.00, for a total transaction of $1,067,485.00. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now owns 12,885 shares of the companys stock, valued at $4,574,175. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink . Also, EVP Valentin Sribar sold 348 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, March 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $322.61, for a total transaction of $112,268.28. Following the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 12,189 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,932,293.29. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . In the last 90 days, insiders have sold 43,031 shares of company stock worth $15,047,172. Corporate insiders own 3.70% of the companys stock.

Hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the company. Vanguard Group Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of Gartner by 1.1% in the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 9,198,161 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $2,736,085,000 after buying an additional 102,709 shares during the period. BlackRock Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of Gartner by 2.5% in the 3rd quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 6,075,891 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $1,681,139,000 after buying an additional 148,010 shares during the period. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA increased its holdings in shares of Gartner by 145.1% during the 3rd quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA now owns 2,227,844 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $616,422,000 after purchasing an additional 1,318,892 shares in the last quarter. Morgan Stanley increased its holdings in shares of Gartner by 271.1% during the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 2,151,011 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $723,041,000 after purchasing an additional 1,571,413 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Wellington Management Group LLP increased its holdings in shares of Gartner by 20.3% during the 1st quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 2,029,738 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $603,766,000 after purchasing an additional 342,228 shares in the last quarter. 91.86% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

IT has been the topic of several recent research reports. Morgan Stanley increased their price objective on shares of Gartner from $358.00 to $366.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research note on Wednesday, February 8th. StockNews.com started coverage on shares of Gartner in a report on Thursday, March 16th. They set a buy rating for the company. Wells Fargo & Company upped their target price on shares of Gartner from $370.00 to $387.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Wednesday, February 8th. Finally, BMO Capital Markets lifted their price target on shares of Gartner from $356.00 to $357.00 and gave the company a market perform rating in a report on Thursday, February 9th. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $361.71.

About Gartner

(Get Rating)

Gartner, Inc is a research and advisory company, which equips business leaders with insights, advice, and tools that help build organizations. It operates through the following segments: Research, Consulting, and Conferences. The Research segment provides executives with objective insights and advice through reports, briefings, proprietary tools, access to the firms research experts, peer networking services, and membership programs.

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Global Business Travel Group (NYSE:GBTG  Get Rating) is one of 35 publicly-traded companies in the Transportation services industry, but how does it compare to its competitors? We will compare Global Business Travel Group to similar companies based on the strength of its dividends, analyst recommendations, valuation, institutional ownership, earnings, risk and profitability.

Profitability

This table compares Global Business Travel Group and its competitors net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

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Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Global Business Travel Group N/A -2.83% -0.87% Global Business Travel Group Competitors -3,276.52% 3.63% -4.03%

Analyst Ratings

This is a summary of current ratings for Global Business Travel Group and its competitors, as provided by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Global Business Travel Group 0 2 4 0 2.67 Global Business Travel Group Competitors 101 899 1776 31 2.62

Volatility and Risk

Global Business Travel Group presently has a consensus price target of $8.68, suggesting a potential upside of 30.97%. As a group, Transportation services companies have a potential upside of 6.12%. Given Global Business Travel Groups stronger consensus rating and higher possible upside, equities analysts plainly believe Global Business Travel Group is more favorable than its competitors.

Global Business Travel Group has a beta of 0.28, suggesting that its stock price is 72% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Global Business Travel Groups competitors have a beta of 2.06, suggesting that their average stock price is 106% more volatile than the S&P 500.

Earnings & Valuation

This table compares Global Business Travel Group and its competitors gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Gross Revenue Net Income Price/Earnings Ratio Global Business Travel Group $1.85 billion -$25.00 million -10.87 Global Business Travel Group Competitors $3.77 billion $226.95 million 4.11

Global Business Travel Groups competitors have higher revenue and earnings than Global Business Travel Group. Global Business Travel Group is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than its competitors, indicating that it is currently more affordable than other companies in its industry.

Institutional and Insider Ownership

15.9% of Global Business Travel Group shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 52.1% of shares of all Transportation services companies are owned by institutional investors. 12.9% of Global Business Travel Group shares are owned by company insiders. Comparatively, 18.9% of shares of all Transportation services companies are owned by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, large money managers and hedge funds believe a company will outperform the market over the long term.

Summary

Global Business Travel Group competitors beat Global Business Travel Group on 8 of the 13 factors compared.

Global Business Travel Group Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Global Business Travel Group, Inc. provides business-to-business (B2B) travel platform in the United States of America and internationally. The company's platform offers a suite of technology-enabled solutions to business travelers and clients; travel content suppliers including airlines, hotels, ground transportation, and aggregators; and third-party travel agencies. It manages travel, expenses, and meetings and events for companies. The company is headquartered in New York, New York.

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Gold Fields Limited (NYSE:GFI  Get Rating) shares rose 4% on Tuesday . The stock traded as high as $15.71 and last traded at $15.67. Approximately 1,583,697 shares changed hands during trading, a decline of 72% from the average daily volume of 5,755,717 shares. The stock had previously closed at $15.07.

Analyst Ratings Changes

GFI has been the subject of several analyst reports. HSBC cut shares of Gold Fields from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Monday, January 30th. StockNews.com started coverage on shares of Gold Fields in a research report on Thursday, March 16th. They set a buy rating for the company. Finally, Investec lowered Gold Fields from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Monday.

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Gold Fields Trading Up 1.5 %

The companys 50-day moving average is $11.57 and its 200 day moving average is $10.74. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.32, a quick ratio of 1.33 and a current ratio of 2.29.

Gold Fields Increases Dividend

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Gold Fields

The business also recently disclosed a semi-annual dividend, which was paid on Thursday, March 30th. Stockholders of record on Friday, March 17th were issued a dividend of $0.2425 per share. This represents a dividend yield of 3%. This is a boost from Gold Fieldss previous semi-annual dividend of $0.17. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, March 16th.

Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. lifted its position in shares of Gold Fields by 8.0% in the first quarter. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. now owns 55,802 shares of the companys stock valued at $578,000 after acquiring an additional 4,151 shares in the last quarter. CWA Asset Management Group LLC bought a new position in shares of Gold Fields during the first quarter worth $683,000. Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC boosted its position in shares of Gold Fields by 56.8% during the first quarter. Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC now owns 1,740,796 shares of the companys stock worth $23,187,000 after acquiring an additional 630,296 shares during the last quarter. National Bank of Canada FI increased its holdings in Gold Fields by 20.7% in the 1st quarter. National Bank of Canada FI now owns 1,839,768 shares of the companys stock valued at $24,506,000 after acquiring an additional 315,622 shares during the last quarter. Finally, FNY Investment Advisers LLC grew its position in shares of Gold Fields by 48.3% during the first quarter. FNY Investment Advisers LLC now owns 14,828 shares of the companys stock valued at $197,000 after purchasing an additional 4,828 shares in the last quarter. 28.41% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Gold Fields Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Gold Fields Ltd. is a gold mining company, which engages in the production of gold and operation of mines. Its operating mines are located in Australia, Ghana, Peru, and South Africa. The company was founded on May 03, 1968 and is headquartered in Johannesburg, South Africa.

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Illinois Tool Works Inc. (NYSE:ITW  Get Rating) has been assigned an average recommendation of Hold from the fifteen research firms that are covering the firm, MarketBeat Ratings reports. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have given a hold rating and three have issued a buy rating on the company. The average 12 month price objective among brokers that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $228.64.

ITW has been the topic of a number of recent analyst reports. Morgan Stanley boosted their price objective on Illinois Tool Works from $174.00 to $223.00 and gave the stock an underweight rating in a research note on Tuesday, February 7th. UBS Group boosted their target price on Illinois Tool Works from $213.00 to $245.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Thursday, February 9th. Vertical Research downgraded Illinois Tool Works from a buy rating to a hold rating and dropped their target price for the stock from $240.00 to $220.00 in a research report on Tuesday, January 3rd. StockNews.com initiated coverage on Illinois Tool Works in a research report on Thursday, March 16th. They set a buy rating for the company. Finally, Barclays dropped their target price on Illinois Tool Works from $211.00 to $205.00 and set an underweight rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, April 6th.

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Illinois Tool Works Price Performance

Shares of ITW stock opened at $232.80 on Tuesday. The stocks fifty day simple moving average is $234.64 and its 200 day simple moving average is $223.33. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.00, a current ratio of 1.41 and a quick ratio of 0.95. The firm has a market cap of $70.96 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 23.80, a P/E/G ratio of 3.54 and a beta of 1.10. Illinois Tool Works has a one year low of $173.52 and a one year high of $253.37.

Illinois Tool Works Dividend Announcement

Illinois Tool Works ( NYSE:ITW Get Rating ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, February 2nd. The industrial products company reported $2.34 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $2.60 by ($0.26). The business had revenue of $3.97 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $3.90 billion. Illinois Tool Works had a return on equity of 87.15% and a net margin of 19.04%. Illinois Tool Workss revenue for the quarter was up 7.9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted $1.95 EPS. On average, analysts expect that Illinois Tool Works will post 9.51 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, April 13th. Shareholders of record on Friday, March 31st were paid a $1.31 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, March 30th. This represents a $5.24 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.25%. Illinois Tool Workss payout ratio is 53.58%.

Insider Buying and Selling at Illinois Tool Works

In other news, CEO Ernest Scott Santi sold 235,656 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Friday, February 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $246.29, for a total transaction of $58,039,716.24. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 213,538 shares of the companys stock, valued at $52,592,274.02. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. In other news, Vice Chairman Christopher A. Oherlihy sold 60,137 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, February 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $246.26, for a total transaction of $14,809,337.62. Following the transaction, the insider now owns 40,072 shares in the company, valued at $9,868,130.72. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Also, CEO Ernest Scott Santi sold 235,656 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, February 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $246.29, for a total value of $58,039,716.24. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 213,538 shares in the company, valued at approximately $52,592,274.02. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders own 0.78% of the companys stock.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Illinois Tool Works

A number of large investors have recently made changes to their positions in the company. 180 Wealth Advisors LLC increased its stake in Illinois Tool Works by 3.1% during the 4th quarter. 180 Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 1,392 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $318,000 after acquiring an additional 42 shares during the period. NTV Asset Management LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Illinois Tool Works by 3.3% in the 4th quarter. NTV Asset Management LLC now owns 1,366 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $301,000 after purchasing an additional 44 shares in the last quarter. Bank OZK boosted its holdings in shares of Illinois Tool Works by 0.9% during the 3rd quarter. Bank OZK now owns 5,065 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $915,000 after acquiring an additional 45 shares in the last quarter. First Hawaiian Bank raised its position in Illinois Tool Works by 3.7% during the 4th quarter. First Hawaiian Bank now owns 1,277 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $281,000 after purchasing an additional 45 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Arjuna Capital raised its position in Illinois Tool Works by 0.8% during the 4th quarter. Arjuna Capital now owns 5,986 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $1,319,000 after purchasing an additional 45 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 79.83% of the companys stock.

Illinois Tool Works Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Illinois Tool Works, Inc engages in the manufacture of industrial products and equipment. It operates through the following segments: Automotive OEM, Test and Measurement and Electronics, Food Equipment, Polymers and Fluids, Welding, Construction Products, and Specialty Products. The Automotive OEM segment produces components and fasteners for automotive-related applications.

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Coursera, Inc. (NYSE:COUR  Get Rating) CEO Jeffrey Nacey Maggioncalda sold 50,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Thursday, April 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $11.28, for a total transaction of $564,000.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 2,834,897 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $31,977,638.16. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link.

Jeffrey Nacey Maggioncalda also recently made the following trade(s):

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On Thursday, March 30th, Jeffrey Nacey Maggioncalda sold 50,000 shares of Coursera stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $10.79, for a total transaction of $539,500.00.

On Monday, March 20th, Jeffrey Nacey Maggioncalda sold 50,000 shares of Coursera stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $10.98, for a total transaction of $549,000.00.

Coursera Stock Performance

COUR traded down $0.30 during mid-day trading on Monday, reaching $10.87. 926,241 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 881,854. The stock has a market capitalization of $1.63 billion, a PE ratio of -8.98 and a beta of 1.77. The company has a 50 day moving average price of $12.14 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $12.64. Coursera, Inc. has a 1 year low of $9.81 and a 1 year high of $23.06.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Coursera

A number of equities analysts have recently commented on COUR shares. Royal Bank of Canada restated an outperform rating and set a $18.00 price objective on shares of Coursera in a research note on Friday, March 10th. Cantor Fitzgerald downgraded shares of Coursera from an overweight rating to a neutral rating and reduced their price objective for the stock from $17.00 to $16.00 in a research note on Friday, February 10th. Needham & Company LLC restated a buy rating and set a $19.00 price objective on shares of Coursera in a research note on Friday, March 10th. Truist Financial downgraded shares of Coursera from a buy rating to a hold rating and reduced their price objective for the stock from $17.50 to $12.00 in a research note on Monday, February 27th. Finally, Morgan Stanley cut their target price on shares of Coursera from $18.00 to $17.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Friday, March 31st. Six analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have given a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Coursera has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $17.50.

A number of hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in COUR. Norges Bank bought a new stake in Coursera during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $137,598,000. Marshall Wace LLP raised its stake in Coursera by 475.0% during the 4th quarter. Marshall Wace LLP now owns 660,230 shares of the companys stock valued at $7,811,000 after purchasing an additional 545,401 shares during the period. State Street Corp raised its stake in Coursera by 33.4% during the 2nd quarter. State Street Corp now owns 1,831,061 shares of the companys stock valued at $25,964,000 after purchasing an additional 458,106 shares during the period. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. raised its stake in Coursera by 133.7% during the 2nd quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 800,620 shares of the companys stock valued at $11,353,000 after purchasing an additional 458,008 shares during the period. Finally, Dimensional Fund Advisors LP raised its stake in Coursera by 250.3% during the 4th quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP now owns 441,930 shares of the companys stock valued at $5,229,000 after purchasing an additional 315,762 shares during the period. 62.31% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

Coursera Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Coursera, Inc operates an online educational content platform that connects learners, educators, organizations, and institutions. It offers online courses that include data science, business, computer science, information technology, health, social sciences, logic, project management, and digital marketing services; campus student plans; degree courses; and certification education.

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iShares Core Canadian Universe Bond Index ETF (TSE:XBB  Get Rating)s share price were down 0.3% on Monday . The stock traded as low as C$27.65 and last traded at C$27.69. Approximately 81,129 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 56% from the average daily volume of 185,004 shares. The stock had previously closed at C$27.76.

iShares Core Canadian Universe Bond Index ETF Price Performance

The firms fifty day moving average price is C$27.27 and its two-hundred day moving average price is C$27.46.

About iShares Core Canadian Universe Bond Index ETF

(Get Rating)

iShares DEX Universe Bond Index Fund seeks to provide income by replicating, to the extent possible, the performance of the DEX Universe Bond Index, net of expenses. The DEX Bond Index consists of a diversified selection of investment-grade Government of Canada, provincial, corporate and municipal bonds issued domestically in Canada and denominated in Canadian dollars.

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Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN  Get Rating) insider Jean-Marc Ollagnier sold 6,250 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Friday, April 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $280.06, for a total transaction of $1,750,375.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now owns 174,084 shares in the company, valued at $48,753,965.04. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink.

Accenture Price Performance

NYSE:ACN traded down $1.16 during mid-day trading on Tuesday, reaching $278.82. The stock had a trading volume of 482,013 shares, compared to its average volume of 2,409,045. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $272.58 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $275.09. Accenture plc has a 12 month low of $242.80 and a 12 month high of $330.32. The stock has a market capitalization of $176.18 billion, a PE ratio of 25.78, a P/E/G ratio of 2.54 and a beta of 1.25.

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Accenture (NYSE:ACN  Get Rating) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, March 23rd. The information technology services provider reported $2.69 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.49 by $0.20. The company had revenue of $15.81 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $15.59 billion. Accenture had a return on equity of 30.73% and a net margin of 11.00%. Accentures revenue was up 5.1% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $2.54 EPS. Equities analysts expect that Accenture plc will post 11.57 EPS for the current year.

Accenture Dividend Announcement

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, May 15th. Investors of record on Thursday, April 13th will be given a dividend of $1.12 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, April 12th. This represents a $4.48 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.61%. Accentures dividend payout ratio is currently 41.25%.

A number of brokerages recently commented on ACN. Wedbush reiterated an outperform rating and issued a $300.00 price target on shares of Accenture in a research note on Monday, March 13th. BMO Capital Markets upped their target price on Accenture from $310.00 to $327.00 in a research report on Friday, March 24th. Jefferies Financial Group dropped their price target on Accenture from $290.00 to $279.00 in a report on Monday, December 19th. Royal Bank of Canada upped their price objective on Accenture from $335.00 to $340.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Friday, March 24th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company boosted their target price on shares of Accenture from $289.00 to $294.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research report on Friday, March 24th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have given a hold rating and twelve have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $314.00.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Accenture

Several large investors have recently bought and sold shares of ACN. Optas LLC boosted its stake in shares of Accenture by 9.2% in the 1st quarter. Optas LLC now owns 1,241 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $355,000 after purchasing an additional 105 shares during the last quarter. Ignite Planners LLC boosted its position in Accenture by 9.6% during the first quarter. Ignite Planners LLC now owns 979 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $276,000 after acquiring an additional 86 shares during the last quarter. Xponance Inc. grew its holdings in Accenture by 6.3% during the 1st quarter. Xponance Inc. now owns 156,456 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $44,717,000 after acquiring an additional 9,291 shares during the period. Stanley Laman Group Ltd. bought a new position in shares of Accenture in the 1st quarter worth about $300,000. Finally, GPS Wealth Strategies Group LLC acquired a new position in shares of Accenture in the 1st quarter valued at about $223,000. 73.97% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

Accenture Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Accenture Plc engages in the provision of management consulting, technology, and outsourcing services. It operates through the following geographical segments: North America, Europe and Growth Markets. The company was founded in 1989 and is headquartered in Dublin, Ireland.

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Stock analysts at KeyCorp started coverage on shares of Garmin (NYSE:GRMN  Get Rating) in a report issued on Tuesday, The Fly reports. The brokerage set a sector weight rating on the scientific and technical instruments companys stock.

Several other equities research analysts also recently weighed in on the company. TheStreet raised Garmin from a c+ rating to a b- rating in a research report on Monday, March 13th. Morgan Stanley increased their price target on Garmin from $91.00 to $99.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Thursday, February 23rd. Barclays upped their price objective on Garmin from $97.00 to $101.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Thursday, February 23rd. Tigress Financial restated a strong-buy rating and set a $165.00 price objective on shares of Garmin in a research note on Friday, March 3rd. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their price objective on Garmin from $108.00 to $115.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Thursday, February 23rd. Five research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, one has issued a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $123.17.

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Garmin Stock Down 0.1 %

Shares of NYSE GRMN traded down $0.09 on Tuesday, hitting $99.44. The company had a trading volume of 725,168 shares, compared to its average volume of 948,288. Garmin has a 12-month low of $76.37 and a 12-month high of $117.20. The business has a 50 day moving average of $97.75 and a two-hundred day moving average of $95.71. The firm has a market capitalization of $19.03 billion, a P/E ratio of 19.73, a PEG ratio of 3.39 and a beta of 0.94.

Insider Transactions at Garmin

Garmin ( NYSE:GRMN Get Rating ) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, February 22nd. The scientific and technical instruments company reported $1.35 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.14 by $0.21. Garmin had a return on equity of 16.41% and a net margin of 20.03%. The company had revenue of $1.31 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.32 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $1.55 earnings per share. The companys revenue was down 6.1% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, sell-side analysts anticipate that Garmin will post 5.2 earnings per share for the current year.

In other news, CEO Clifton A. Pemble sold 7,216 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, February 27th. The stock was sold at an average price of $98.54, for a total transaction of $711,064.64. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now directly owns 120,460 shares in the company, valued at approximately $11,870,128.40. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. In related news, Director Matthew Munn sold 4,536 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, February 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $98.36, for a total value of $446,160.96. Following the sale, the director now directly owns 9,023 shares in the company, valued at approximately $887,502.28. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, CEO Clifton A. Pemble sold 7,216 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, February 27th. The shares were sold at an average price of $98.54, for a total value of $711,064.64. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 120,460 shares in the company, valued at $11,870,128.40. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last ninety days, insiders have sold 16,610 shares of company stock worth $1,635,921. 20.34% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Garmin

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Private Trust Co. NA grew its stake in shares of Garmin by 84.6% in the 1st quarter. Private Trust Co. NA now owns 288 shares of the scientific and technical instruments companys stock worth $29,000 after purchasing an additional 132 shares during the last quarter. Federated Hermes Inc. bought a new position in shares of Garmin in the second quarter valued at $29,000. U.S. Capital Wealth Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Garmin during the 4th quarter valued at $27,000. Massmutual Trust Co. FSB ADV boosted its stake in shares of Garmin by 107.1% during the 1st quarter. Massmutual Trust Co. FSB ADV now owns 352 shares of the scientific and technical instruments companys stock worth $36,000 after acquiring an additional 182 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Ronald Blue Trust Inc. grew its holdings in shares of Garmin by 45.2% in the 4th quarter. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. now owns 363 shares of the scientific and technical instruments companys stock worth $29,000 after acquiring an additional 113 shares during the last quarter. 63.29% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

About Garmin

(Get Rating)

Garmin Ltd. is a holding company, which engages in the provision of navigation, communications and information devices, most of which are enabled by Global Positioning System (GPS) technology. It operates through the following segments: Marine, Outdoor, Fitness, Auto OEM, Consumer Auto, and Aviation.

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Goa Common Entrance Test (GCET) 2023 https://career.webindia123.com/career/dates_and_events/entrance/eng/goa-common-entrance-test-gcet.htm Details of Goa Common Entrance Test (GCET) 2023 2023-4-18 2023-4-20 https://career.webindia123.com/career/images/exams.png India India Goa Common Entrance Test (GCET) 2023 Engineering

GCET 2023 : Admissions to Professional Courses MBBS, BDS, BHMS, B.E. & B.Pharm

Goa Common Entrance Test (GCET) 2023 Category : Engineering Admissions 2023 Published : On April 18, 2023 By Webindia123 Editor

Important Dates

Start of receiving forms for GCET 10th April 2023 Last date for receiving applications and issue of admit cards - Last date for receiving applications and issue of admit cards (with additional late fees of Rs. 1500/-) - Dates of GCET 13-05-2023 & 14-05-2023 Expected date of result of GCET May 2023

The Directorate of Technical Education, Government of Goa shall conduct Goa Common Entrance Test 2023 (GCET-23) for admissions to Professional Degree courses in Engineering, Pharmacy, Allied Health Sciences and Nursing in the State of Goa, for the academic year 2023. Admissions to Degree course in Architecture shall be on the basis of NATA as per details given under eligibility. Admissions to MBBS, BDS, BHMS*(Homeopathy) and BAMS* (Ayurveda) courses shall be based on NEET UG-2023 scores.

All candidates desirous of seeking admissions to Professional Degree courses in MBBS, BDS, BHMS*(Homeopathy) and BAMS*(Ayurveda) in the colleges within the State of Goa during the academic session 2023, must appear and have a valid score in NEET UG-2023, and should fulfill

other eligibility criteria for admission as given in this prospectus. Merit list for these courses shall be based only on NEET UG-2023 scores.

(* State Government has requested Min. of AYUSH, Govt. of India to permit admissions to these courses for the year 2023 to be carried out on basis of GCET-2121. If the request is approved, admissions to BHMS and BAMS courses shall be carried out on GCET-2121 based Merit List. Hence, intending applicants to BHMS and BAMS courses are advised to appear at GCET-2121 also, and submit Form B).

All candidates desirous of seeking admissions to Degree Courses in Architecture must appear and have a valid score in National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA-2023), conducted by Council of Architecture, and should fulfill other eligibility criteria for admission, as notified by Council of Architecture. Details of the test and centers are available on website of Council of Architecture. (www. coa-india.org or www.nata.in/ www.nata.nic.in)

Admissions to B.E., B.Pharm courses in the State of Goa for the academic year 2023 shall be carried out on basis of GCET-2121 (Goa Common Entrance Test),which shall be conducted in various Centers, across Goa State, in the subjects of Physics, Chemistry , Maths and Biology, based on Std. XII th syllabus prescribed in these subjects by Goa Board, for March- 2023 exam as per following schedule

Courses offered :

MBBS - Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery

BDS - Bachelor of Dental Surgery

BHMS - Bachelor of Homeopathic Medicine & Surgery

BE - Bachelor of Engineering

BPharma - Bachelor of Pharmacy

Eligibility :

For MBBS, BDS, BHMS, BAMS & AHS - Applicant should have passed the Higher Secondary Certificate (Std. XII) examination of Goa Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education or its equivalent examination with English and secured not less than 50% marks in the aggregate of subjects of Physics, Chemistry, and Biology taken together. (40% for the applicants belonging to SC, ST and OBC only and 45% for applicants belonging to PH category for MBBS and BDS Course)

B.Sc. in Nursing - Applicants should have passed HSSC (qualifying exam) in subjects of Physics, Chemistry, Biology and English, and obtained minimum 45% aggregate marks in Physics, Chemistry and Biology for General Category, (40% aggregate marks in subjects of Physics, Chemistry and Biology for candidates belonging to SC,ST and OBC category).

For 1st year B.E - The applicant should have passed the Higher Secondary School Certificate (Std.XII th) examination of the Goa Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education or its equivalent examination with English, Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects with one of the following subjects Chemistry/Bio-Technology/Computer Science /Biology, and secured not less than 45% marks in the aggregate of subjects of Physics & Mathematics with one of the following subjects Chemistry/Bio-Technology/Computer Science/Biology. (40% for the applicants belonging to SC, ST and OBC only)

First Year B. Pharm. - The applicant should have passed the Higher Secondary School Certificate (Std.XII th) examination of the Goa Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education or its equivalent examination with English, Physics and Chemistry as compulsory subjects with one of the following subjects Mathematics/Bio-Technology/Computer Science /Biology, and secured not less than 45% marks in the aggregate of subjects of Physics & Chemistry with one of the following subjects Mathematics/Bio-Technology/Computer Science/Biology. (40% for the applicants belonging to SC, ST and OBC only).

First Year B.Arch.: The applicant should have passed the Higher Secondary School Certificate (Std.XII th) examination of the Goa Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education or its equivalent examination with Mathematics as one of the subjects and secured at least 50% marks in aggregate (45% aggregate marks for applicants belonging to SC/ST/OBC).

OR

10+3 Diploma (any stream) passed/appearing recognized by Central/State Govts with 50% aggregate marks with Mathematics.

OR

International Baccalaureate Diploma, after 10 years of schooling, with not less than 50% marks in aggregate and with Mathematics as compulsory subject of examination.

No direct lateral admission is allowed at any other year/stage of B.Arch. course based on any qualification.

Age :

An applicant to Degree courses in Medicine, Dentistry, Homoeopathy, Ayurveda, Allied Health Sciences and Nursing must have competed the age of 17 years on or before 31st December of the academic year of admission to become eligible for admission to First Year. No age limit, minimum or maximum, is specified for admission to Engineering and Pharmacy Courses.

How to Apply :

The applicant should submit the Application Form (A) for GCET-21 in person at the notified Application Reception Centre as per centre opted, along with a DD of Rs. 2000/- payable in favour of Director of Technical Education at Panaji, and three identical photographs as indicated, and obtain the Photo-Admit Card, from the Admission Committee, on the same day.

Incomplete Application Forms shall not be accepted. Application Form for GCET-19 shall not be accepted by post or through messenger. Forms shall be accepted with additional Late Fee of Rs. 1500/- till scheduled date (27-04-2021). Forms shall not be accepted after the last date of submission mentioned in the prospectus.

More Details can be available from the institute website.

Contact Details Address : Chairman, Admission Committee

Directorate of Technical Education

Alto-Porvorim, Bardez, Goa. 403 521 Phone : 0832-2416370 Fax : - Mobile : - E-mail : Contact I Website : dte.goa.gov.in

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Klingenstein Fields & Co. LP lifted its position in shares of Fortive Co. (NYSE:FTV  Get Rating) by 1.3% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The firm owned 298,626 shares of the technology companys stock after acquiring an additional 3,818 shares during the quarter. Klingenstein Fields & Co. LPs holdings in Fortive were worth $19,187,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Brown Advisory Inc. boosted its stake in Fortive by 39.4% in the 3rd quarter. Brown Advisory Inc. now owns 5,710,019 shares of the technology companys stock worth $332,894,000 after purchasing an additional 1,614,640 shares during the period. Marshall Wace LLP boosted its stake in Fortive by 75.3% in the 3rd quarter. Marshall Wace LLP now owns 2,345,333 shares of the technology companys stock worth $136,733,000 after purchasing an additional 1,007,368 shares during the period. Vanguard Group Inc. boosted its stake in Fortive by 2.7% in the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 37,557,116 shares of the technology companys stock worth $2,288,355,000 after purchasing an additional 989,883 shares during the period. Boston Partners boosted its stake in Fortive by 54.2% in the 3rd quarter. Boston Partners now owns 2,678,828 shares of the technology companys stock worth $156,729,000 after purchasing an additional 941,135 shares during the period. Finally, BlackRock Inc. boosted its position in shares of Fortive by 3.0% during the 3rd quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 29,779,513 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $1,736,146,000 after acquiring an additional 860,002 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 94.84% of the companys stock.

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Fortive Trading Down 0.2 %

Fortive stock traded down $0.13 during trading hours on Tuesday, reaching $67.20. The company had a trading volume of 516,857 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,928,329. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.23, a current ratio of 0.91 and a quick ratio of 0.71. The company has a 50-day moving average price of $66.76 and a 200 day moving average price of $65.47. The firm has a market cap of $23.74 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 32.06, a P/E/G ratio of 2.56 and a beta of 1.14. Fortive Co. has a 12-month low of $52.47 and a 12-month high of $69.78.

Fortive Dividend Announcement

Fortive ( NYSE:FTV Get Rating ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, February 1st. The technology company reported $0.88 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.84 by $0.04. The business had revenue of $1.53 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.50 billion. Fortive had a return on equity of 11.90% and a net margin of 12.96%. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 11.3% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the firm earned $0.79 EPS. Equities analysts forecast that Fortive Co. will post 3.35 earnings per share for the current year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, June 30th. Shareholders of record on Friday, May 26th will be paid a $0.07 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, May 25th. This represents a $0.28 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.42%. Fortives dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 13.33%.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other news, SVP Stacey A. Walker sold 2,063 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, February 17th. The stock was sold at an average price of $68.67, for a total transaction of $141,666.21. Following the transaction, the senior vice president now directly owns 40,150 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,757,100.50. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. In other news, SVP Stacey A. Walker sold 3,249 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, February 27th. The stock was sold at an average price of $67.75, for a total transaction of $220,119.75. Following the transaction, the senior vice president now directly owns 32,721 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,216,847.75. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. Also, SVP Stacey A. Walker sold 2,063 shares of Fortive stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, February 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of $68.67, for a total value of $141,666.21. Following the sale, the senior vice president now owns 40,150 shares in the company, valued at $2,757,100.50. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold 6,648 shares of company stock valued at $450,483 in the last ninety days. Company insiders own 0.79% of the companys stock.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

FTV has been the subject of a number of research analyst reports. Citigroup lifted their price target on Fortive from $77.00 to $78.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Thursday, February 2nd. Vertical Research upgraded Fortive from a hold rating to a buy rating and set a $74.00 price target for the company in a research report on Monday, March 27th. StockNews.com initiated coverage on Fortive in a research report on Thursday, March 16th. They set a buy rating for the company. Wells Fargo & Company dropped their price target on Fortive from $70.00 to $68.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, April 13th. Finally, Mizuho lifted their price target on Fortive from $60.00 to $63.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Friday, January 13th. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eight have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $72.92.

Fortive Profile

(Get Rating)

Fortive Corp. engages in the design, development, manufacturing, and marketing of professional and engineered products, software, and services for a variety of end markets. It operates through the following segments: Intelligent Operating Solutions, Precision Technologies, and Advanced Healthcare Solutions.

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Want to see what other hedge funds are holding FTV? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Fortive Co. (NYSE:FTV  Get Rating).

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Altfest L J & Co. Inc. increased its position in shares of Las Vegas Sands Corp. (NYSE:LVS  Get Rating) by 16.4% during the 4th quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The fund owned 11,221 shares of the casino operators stock after acquiring an additional 1,579 shares during the quarter. Altfest L J & Co. Inc.s holdings in Las Vegas Sands were worth $539,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the company. Vanguard Group Inc. boosted its position in shares of Las Vegas Sands by 1.5% during the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 35,537,902 shares of the casino operators stock valued at $1,381,358,000 after acquiring an additional 519,620 shares during the last quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD boosted its position in shares of Las Vegas Sands by 6.9% during the 3rd quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 31,854,683 shares of the casino operators stock valued at $1,195,313,000 after acquiring an additional 2,061,378 shares during the last quarter. State Street Corp boosted its position in shares of Las Vegas Sands by 2.9% during the 1st quarter. State Street Corp now owns 13,898,679 shares of the casino operators stock valued at $540,242,000 after acquiring an additional 394,616 shares during the last quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp boosted its position in shares of Las Vegas Sands by 36.0% during the 3rd quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 7,428,878 shares of the casino operators stock valued at $278,734,000 after acquiring an additional 1,966,755 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Aspex Management HK Ltd boosted its position in shares of Las Vegas Sands by 55.0% during the 3rd quarter. Aspex Management HK Ltd now owns 5,652,595 shares of the casino operators stock valued at $212,085,000 after acquiring an additional 2,005,112 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 39.75% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

Several analysts recently issued reports on the stock. Bank of America boosted their price objective on shares of Las Vegas Sands from $55.00 to $62.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Thursday, January 26th. StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of Las Vegas Sands in a report on Thursday, March 16th. They issued a hold rating on the stock. CBRE Group upgraded shares of Las Vegas Sands from a hold rating to a buy rating and boosted their price objective for the company from $47.00 to $68.00 in a report on Thursday, January 26th. Stifel Nicolaus boosted their price objective on shares of Las Vegas Sands from $60.00 to $66.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Thursday, January 26th. Finally, TheStreet upgraded shares of Las Vegas Sands from a d+ rating to a c- rating in a report on Monday, February 6th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twelve have issued a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $64.93.

Las Vegas Sands Stock Performance

Shares of Las Vegas Sands stock opened at $58.17 on Tuesday. Las Vegas Sands Corp. has a one year low of $28.88 and a one year high of $60.99. The company has a market cap of $44.46 billion, a PE ratio of 24.24, a P/E/G ratio of 16.57 and a beta of 1.16. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 3.81, a quick ratio of 1.72 and a current ratio of 1.73. The business has a 50-day simple moving average of $56.69 and a 200-day simple moving average of $49.59.

Las Vegas Sands (NYSE:LVS  Get Rating) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, January 25th. The casino operator reported ($0.19) EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of ($0.09) by ($0.10). Las Vegas Sands had a negative return on equity of 22.49% and a net margin of 44.57%. The company had revenue of $1.12 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.18 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted ($0.22) earnings per share. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 10.8% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, equities research analysts forecast that Las Vegas Sands Corp. will post 1.48 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Las Vegas Sands Profile

(Get Rating)

Las Vegas Sands Corp. engages in the development of destination properties. The firm operates through the Macao and Singapore geographical segments. The Macao segment handles the operations of The Venetian Macao, The Londoner Macao, The Parisian Macao, The Plaza Macao and Four Seasons Macao, and Sands Macao.

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Leeward Investments LLC MA trimmed its position in TreeHouse Foods, Inc. (NYSE:THS  Get Rating) by 13.9% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 782,763 shares of the companys stock after selling 126,880 shares during the quarter. TreeHouse Foods accounts for 1.7% of Leeward Investments LLC MAs holdings, making the stock its 3rd largest holding. Leeward Investments LLC MA owned about 1.40% of TreeHouse Foods worth $38,653,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other hedge funds have also recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Shapiro Capital Management LLC increased its position in TreeHouse Foods by 47.7% during the 1st quarter. Shapiro Capital Management LLC now owns 2,628,233 shares of the companys stock valued at $84,787,000 after buying an additional 848,909 shares in the last quarter. Millennium Management LLC increased its position in TreeHouse Foods by 1,739.5% during the 2nd quarter. Millennium Management LLC now owns 491,847 shares of the companys stock valued at $20,569,000 after buying an additional 521,847 shares in the last quarter. Russell Investments Group Ltd. increased its position in TreeHouse Foods by 1,208.0% during the 3rd quarter. Russell Investments Group Ltd. now owns 436,908 shares of the companys stock valued at $18,531,000 after buying an additional 403,505 shares in the last quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP increased its holdings in shares of TreeHouse Foods by 21.5% in the first quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP now owns 2,100,638 shares of the companys stock valued at $67,767,000 after purchasing an additional 371,394 shares during the period. Finally, Nuveen Asset Management LLC increased its holdings in shares of TreeHouse Foods by 124.4% in the third quarter. Nuveen Asset Management LLC now owns 442,553 shares of the companys stock valued at $18,773,000 after purchasing an additional 245,324 shares during the period.

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Insiders Place Their Bets

In other news, Director Ann Sardini sold 5,083 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, March 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $49.89, for a total value of $253,590.87. Following the transaction, the director now owns 1,800 shares in the company, valued at $89,802. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. 0.93% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

TreeHouse Foods Stock Up 0.9 %

A number of research analysts have recently weighed in on THS shares. Stifel Nicolaus started coverage on TreeHouse Foods in a report on Thursday, April 13th. They issued a hold rating and a $53.00 price objective on the stock. UBS Group started coverage on TreeHouse Foods in a report on Sunday, March 19th. They issued a buy rating and a $60.00 price objective on the stock. Finally, StockNews.com started coverage on TreeHouse Foods in a report on Thursday, March 16th. They issued a hold rating on the stock. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and two have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $55.00.

TreeHouse Foods stock opened at $51.67 on Tuesday. TreeHouse Foods, Inc. has a 52 week low of $30.06 and a 52 week high of $52.48. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $49.10 and its 200 day moving average price is $48.24. The company has a quick ratio of 0.27, a current ratio of 0.98 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.83.

TreeHouse Foods (NYSE:THS  Get Rating) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Monday, February 13th. The company reported $0.98 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.91 by $0.07. The company had revenue of $996.20 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.02 billion. TreeHouse Foods had a positive return on equity of 3.13% and a negative net margin of 3.48%. TreeHouse Foodss revenue for the quarter was up 22.0% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business posted $0.11 earnings per share. Sell-side analysts predict that TreeHouse Foods, Inc. will post 2.41 EPS for the current fiscal year.

TreeHouse Foods Profile

(Get Rating)

TreeHouse Foods, Inc engages is the manufacture and distribution of private label packaged foods and beverages in North America. Its product portfolio includes snacking, beverages, and meal preparation products, available in shelf stable, refrigerated, frozen, and fresh formats. The firm operates through the following segments: Meal Preparation, and Snacking and Beverages.

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Loudon Investment Management LLC reduced its stake in shares of ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP  Get Rating) by 22.2% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The firm owned 2,190 shares of the energy producers stock after selling 625 shares during the quarter. Loudon Investment Management LLCs holdings in ConocoPhillips were worth $258,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

A number of other hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of COP. Oak Harbor Wealth Partners LLC increased its holdings in shares of ConocoPhillips by 2.9% during the third quarter. Oak Harbor Wealth Partners LLC now owns 2,619 shares of the energy producers stock worth $268,000 after buying an additional 75 shares in the last quarter. First National Trust Co boosted its position in ConocoPhillips by 2.5% during the third quarter. First National Trust Co now owns 3,345 shares of the energy producers stock valued at $342,000 after acquiring an additional 80 shares during the last quarter. Denver Wealth Management Inc. boosted its position in shares of ConocoPhillips by 3.2% during the 3rd quarter. Denver Wealth Management Inc. now owns 2,548 shares of the energy producers stock worth $261,000 after purchasing an additional 80 shares in the last quarter. Patten Group Inc. boosted its position in shares of ConocoPhillips by 0.8% during the 3rd quarter. Patten Group Inc. now owns 11,025 shares of the energy producers stock worth $1,307,000 after purchasing an additional 84 shares in the last quarter. Finally, BBR Partners LLC boosted its position in shares of ConocoPhillips by 2.4% during the 3rd quarter. BBR Partners LLC now owns 3,559 shares of the energy producers stock worth $364,000 after purchasing an additional 84 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 81.76% of the companys stock.

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ConocoPhillips Trading Up 0.0 %

Shares of COP stock traded up $0.01 during mid-day trading on Tuesday, reaching $105.62. The stock had a trading volume of 1,895,203 shares, compared to its average volume of 6,616,779. ConocoPhillips has a 52-week low of $78.30 and a 52-week high of $138.49. The company has a current ratio of 1.46, a quick ratio of 1.36 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.34. The stocks 50-day moving average price is $104.74 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $114.85. The firm has a market capitalization of $128.00 billion, a PE ratio of 7.27, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.58 and a beta of 1.30.

ConocoPhillips Announces Dividend

ConocoPhillips ( NYSE:COP Get Rating ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, February 2nd. The energy producer reported $2.71 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $2.72 by ($0.01). ConocoPhillips had a net margin of 22.74% and a return on equity of 35.30%. The company had revenue of $19.26 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $18.16 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm earned $2.27 EPS. ConocoPhillipss quarterly revenue was up 20.7% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities analysts expect that ConocoPhillips will post 10.32 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, April 14th. Investors of record on Wednesday, March 29th were paid a dividend of $0.51 per share. This represents a $2.04 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.93%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Tuesday, March 28th. ConocoPhillipss payout ratio is currently 14.06%.

Insider Buying and Selling

In other ConocoPhillips news, Director R A. Walker acquired 4,800 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, February 22nd. The shares were acquired at an average price of $103.00 per share, with a total value of $494,400.00. Following the completion of the purchase, the director now directly owns 27,600 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,842,800. The purchase was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. 0.40% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several equities analysts recently weighed in on the stock. Citigroup dropped their price target on shares of ConocoPhillips from $160.00 to $145.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, February 27th. Morgan Stanley raised their price target on shares of ConocoPhillips from $115.00 to $122.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Friday. Capital One Financial lowered shares of ConocoPhillips from an overweight rating to an equal weight rating and set a $102.00 price target for the company. in a research note on Friday, February 3rd. Roth Capital restated a buy rating on shares of ConocoPhillips in a research note on Wednesday, February 1st. Finally, StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of ConocoPhillips in a research note on Thursday, March 16th. They issued a hold rating for the company. Six investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, fourteen have issued a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, ConocoPhillips presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $136.70.

ConocoPhillips Profile

(Get Rating)

ConocoPhillips engages in the exploration, production, transportation and marketing of crude oil, bitumen, natural gas, natural gas liquids, and liquefied natural gas on a worldwide basis. It operates through the following geographical segments: Alaska, Lower 48, Canada, Europe, Middle East and North Africa, Asia Pacific, and Other International.

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Magnus Financial Group LLC cut its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF (NYSEARCA:EEM  Get Rating) by 20.2% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 29,153 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after selling 7,382 shares during the quarter. Magnus Financial Group LLCs holdings in iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF were worth $1,105,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other large investors have also recently made changes to their positions in EEM. Toronto Dominion Bank raised its stake in shares of iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF by 190.1% during the third quarter. Toronto Dominion Bank now owns 10,219,950 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $356,352,000 after acquiring an additional 6,697,550 shares in the last quarter. National Bank of Canada FI raised its stake in shares of iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF by 3,639.2% during the third quarter. National Bank of Canada FI now owns 4,095,355 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $142,837,000 after acquiring an additional 3,985,830 shares in the last quarter. Employees Retirement System of Texas purchased a new position in shares of iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF during the third quarter worth approximately $137,811,000. Bank of Montreal Can increased its stake in shares of iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF by 60.3% in the third quarter. Bank of Montreal Can now owns 9,605,304 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $373,647,000 after buying an additional 3,614,016 shares during the period. Finally, UBS Asset Management Americas Inc. purchased a new position in shares of iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF in the third quarter worth $81,575,000. 82.29% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF Stock Down 0.1 %

Shares of NYSEARCA EEM traded down $0.05 during mid-day trading on Tuesday, hitting $39.84. The stock had a trading volume of 10,694,070 shares, compared to its average volume of 35,051,691. iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF has a 1 year low of $33.49 and a 1 year high of $43.92. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $39.13 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $38.38.

iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF Company Profile

iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF, formerly iShares MSCI Emerging Markets Index Fund (the Fund), seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of publicly traded equity securities in global emerging markets, as measured by the MSCI Emerging Markets Index (the Index).

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Mediaset Espana Comunicacion, S.A. (OTCMKTS:GETVY  Get Rating)s stock price reached a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Monday . The company traded as high as $4.14 and last traded at $4.14, with a volume of 0 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at $4.14.

Mediaset Espana Comunicacion Stock Performance

The firm has a 50-day moving average of $4.14 and a 200 day moving average of $4.76.

Mediaset Espana Comunicacion Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Mediaset Espana Comunicacion, SA, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the television broadcasting business in Spain. The company operates seven television channels comprising TELECINCO, FactorAa de FicciAn, BOING, Cuatro, Divinity, Energy, and Be Mad. It is also involved in the production and broadcast of audiovisual content; provision of news agency services; exploitation of advertising space on television channels; and advertising promotion activities.

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Metals Acquisition Corp (NYSE:MTAL  Get Rating) saw a significant growth in short interest in the month of March. As of March 31st, there was short interest totalling 5,700 shares, a growth of 21.3% from the March 15th total of 4,700 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 143,400 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.0 days. Approximately 0.0% of the companys shares are short sold.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Metals Acquisition

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the company. Aristeia Capital LLC purchased a new position in shares of Metals Acquisition in the 3rd quarter worth $6,631,000. Fir Tree Capital Management LP lifted its holdings in Metals Acquisition by 1.9% in the third quarter. Fir Tree Capital Management LP now owns 1,677,059 shares of the companys stock worth $16,418,000 after acquiring an additional 31,324 shares during the last quarter. FNY Investment Advisers LLC lifted its holdings in Metals Acquisition by 22.1% in the third quarter. FNY Investment Advisers LLC now owns 213,332 shares of the companys stock worth $2,086,000 after acquiring an additional 38,552 shares during the last quarter. Citigroup Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Metals Acquisition by 26.3% during the first quarter. Citigroup Inc. now owns 300,001 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,988,000 after buying an additional 62,500 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Mackenzie Financial Corp bought a new stake in shares of Metals Acquisition during the first quarter valued at approximately $1,992,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 74.77% of the companys stock.

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Metals Acquisition Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE:MTAL remained flat at $10.28 on Tuesday. The stock had a trading volume of 51,525 shares, compared to its average volume of 147,670. The stocks fifty day moving average is $10.17 and its 200-day moving average is $10.02. Metals Acquisition has a twelve month low of $9.65 and a twelve month high of $10.30.

Metals Acquisition Company Profile

Metals Acquisition Corp does not have significant operations. It intends to effect a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization, or similar business combination with one or more businesses. The company intends to focus its search on metals and mining businesses. Metals Acquisition Corp was incorporated in 2021 and is based in Fort Worth, Texas.

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Hudbay Minerals (TSE:HBM  Get Rating) (NYSE:HBM) had its target price boosted by stock analysts at National Bank Financial from C$8.00 to C$9.25 in a research note issued to investors on Tuesday, The Fly reports. National Bank Financials target price would suggest a potential upside of 27.76% from the companys current price.

Several other research analysts have also commented on HBM. TD Securities decreased their price objective on shares of Hudbay Minerals from C$10.50 to C$10.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Monday, February 27th. National Bankshares increased their price target on shares of Hudbay Minerals from C$8.00 to C$9.25 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a research note on Tuesday. Bank of America increased their price target on shares of Hudbay Minerals from C$7.00 to C$8.00 in a research note on Wednesday, April 5th. Haywood Securities increased their price target on shares of Hudbay Minerals from C$7.00 to C$10.00 in a research note on Thursday, February 2nd. Finally, BMO Capital Markets increased their price target on shares of Hudbay Minerals from C$14.00 to C$15.00 in a research note on Friday, March 31st. Three analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and seven have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of C$9.72.

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Hudbay Minerals Trading Up 4.0 %

TSE:HBM traded up C$0.28 during midday trading on Tuesday, reaching C$7.24. 1,865,615 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 1,444,325. The company has a fifty day moving average of C$6.80 and a 200 day moving average of C$6.83. Hudbay Minerals has a 12 month low of C$4.07 and a 12 month high of C$9.52. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 79.22, a quick ratio of 0.85 and a current ratio of 1.17. The stock has a market capitalization of C$1.90 billion, a P/E ratio of 20.08, a PEG ratio of 3.97 and a beta of 1.98.

Hudbay Minerals Company Profile

Hudbay Minerals Inc, a diversified mining company, together with its subsidiaries, focuses on the discovery, production, and marketing of base and precious metals in North and South America. It produces copper concentrates containing copper, gold, and silver; silver/gold dore; molybdenum concentrates; and zinc metals.

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iA Financial (TSE:IAG  Get Rating) had its price objective lifted by analysts at National Bank Financial from C$4.00 to C$5.00 in a research note issued to investors on Tuesday, The Fly reports. National Bank Financials price target suggests a potential downside of 94.33% from the stocks previous close.

Other research analysts have also issued research reports about the stock. Canaccord Genuity Group increased their target price on shares of iA Financial from C$88.50 to C$92.50 in a research report on Thursday, February 16th. BMO Capital Markets upped their price target on shares of iA Financial from C$94.00 to C$99.00 in a report on Thursday, February 16th. Scotiabank upped their price target on shares of iA Financial from C$102.00 to C$104.00 in a report on Thursday, February 16th. TD Securities raised shares of iA Financial from a buy rating to an action list buy rating and upped their price target for the stock from C$92.00 to C$100.00 in a report on Thursday, February 16th. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada upped their price target on shares of iA Financial from C$89.00 to C$95.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, February 16th.

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iA Financial Stock Performance

Shares of TSE:IAG traded up C$0.87 on Tuesday, reaching C$88.20. 104,400 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 257,270. The company has a fifty day moving average of C$85.67 and a 200-day moving average of C$79.92. iA Financial has a twelve month low of C$58.70 and a twelve month high of C$93.15. The company has a market capitalization of C$9.24 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 11.53, a PEG ratio of 1.26 and a beta of 1.17. The company has a current ratio of 0.85, a quick ratio of 0.17 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 46.64.

Insider Activity at iA Financial

About iA Financial

In related news, Senior Officer Denis Ricard sold 10,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, February 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of C$89.65, for a total value of C$896,500.00. In other iA Financial news, Senior Officer Denis Ricard sold 10,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, February 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of C$89.65, for a total value of C$896,500.00. Also, Senior Officer Alain Bergeron sold 9,500 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, March 15th. The shares were sold at an average price of C$82.48, for a total transaction of C$783,545.75. Insiders sold a total of 20,500 shares of company stock valued at $1,769,496 in the last quarter. Insiders own 0.14% of the companys stock.

(Get Rating)

iA Financial Corporation Inc, through its subsidiary, Industrial Alliance Insurance and Financial Services Inc, provides various life and health insurance products in Canada and the United States. The company operates through Individual Insurance, Individual Wealth Management, Group Insurance, Group Savings and Retirement, US Operations, and Other segments.

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O Brien Greene & Co. Inc lessened its stake in Fortive Co. (NYSE:FTV  Get Rating) by 65.4% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 71,452 shares of the technology companys stock after selling 135,262 shares during the period. Fortive comprises approximately 1.7% of O Brien Greene & Co. Incs investment portfolio, making the stock its 22nd largest holding. O Brien Greene & Co. Incs holdings in Fortive were worth $4,591,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the business. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC lifted its position in shares of Fortive by 18.4% during the 3rd quarter. EverSource Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 1,031 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $60,000 after buying an additional 160 shares in the last quarter. Apollon Wealth Management LLC lifted its position in shares of Fortive by 4.6% during the 3rd quarter. Apollon Wealth Management LLC now owns 4,006 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $234,000 after buying an additional 175 shares in the last quarter. Zions Bancorporation N.A. lifted its position in shares of Fortive by 21.8% during the 1st quarter. Zions Bancorporation N.A. now owns 977 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $59,000 after buying an additional 175 shares in the last quarter. State of Alaska Department of Revenue lifted its position in shares of Fortive by 0.4% during the 4th quarter. State of Alaska Department of Revenue now owns 49,526 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $3,182,000 after buying an additional 180 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Liberty Capital Management Inc. lifted its position in shares of Fortive by 0.5% during the 4th quarter. Liberty Capital Management Inc. now owns 35,724 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $2,295,000 after buying an additional 182 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 94.84% of the companys stock.

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Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, SVP Stacey A. Walker sold 1,336 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Thursday, February 23rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $66.39, for a total transaction of $88,697.04. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president now directly owns 37,946 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,519,234.94. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. In related news, SVP Stacey A. Walker sold 1,336 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Thursday, February 23rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $66.39, for a total transaction of $88,697.04. Following the completion of the transaction, the senior vice president now directly owns 37,946 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,519,234.94. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, SVP Stacey A. Walker sold 3,249 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Monday, February 27th. The shares were sold at an average price of $67.75, for a total value of $220,119.75. Following the transaction, the senior vice president now owns 32,721 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,216,847.75. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last ninety days, insiders sold 6,648 shares of company stock valued at $450,483. 0.79% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Fortive Trading Up 0.4 %

A number of research analysts have recently issued reports on FTV shares. StockNews.com started coverage on Fortive in a research report on Thursday, March 16th. They set a buy rating on the stock. Wells Fargo & Company reduced their price objective on Fortive from $70.00 to $68.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, April 13th. Vertical Research raised Fortive from a hold rating to a buy rating and set a $74.00 price objective for the company in a research note on Monday, March 27th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their price objective on Fortive from $74.00 to $77.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Thursday, February 2nd. Finally, Citigroup increased their price objective on Fortive from $77.00 to $78.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, February 2nd. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eight have issued a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $72.92.

Shares of FTV traded up $0.27 during midday trading on Tuesday, reaching $67.60. The company had a trading volume of 148,285 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,922,797. Fortive Co. has a 1-year low of $52.47 and a 1-year high of $69.78. The stock has a market cap of $23.88 billion, a PE ratio of 32.06, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.56 and a beta of 1.14. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $66.76 and a 200-day simple moving average of $65.47. The company has a quick ratio of 0.71, a current ratio of 0.91 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.23.

Fortive (NYSE:FTV  Get Rating) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, February 1st. The technology company reported $0.88 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.84 by $0.04. The business had revenue of $1.53 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.50 billion. Fortive had a return on equity of 11.90% and a net margin of 12.96%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 11.3% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the company earned $0.79 EPS. Research analysts forecast that Fortive Co. will post 3.35 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Fortive Announces Dividend

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, June 30th. Investors of record on Friday, May 26th will be given a dividend of $0.07 per share. This represents a $0.28 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.41%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, May 25th. Fortives payout ratio is 13.33%.

Fortive Profile

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Fortive Corp. engages in the design, development, manufacturing, and marketing of professional and engineered products, software, and services for a variety of end markets. It operates through the following segments: Intelligent Operating Solutions, Precision Technologies, and Advanced Healthcare Solutions.

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Shares of Otis Worldwide Co. (NYSE:OTIS  Get Rating) have received an average rating of Hold from the twelve ratings firms that are covering the firm, MarketBeat.com reports. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have assigned a hold rating and three have issued a buy rating on the company. The average 12-month price objective among brokerages that have issued ratings on the stock in the last year is $80.10.

Several research analysts have recently weighed in on the company. Wells Fargo & Company lowered their price objective on Otis Worldwide from $82.00 to $75.00 and set an underweight rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, April 13th. TheStreet raised Otis Worldwide from a d+ rating to a c+ rating in a research report on Monday, March 20th. Cowen lifted their price objective on Otis Worldwide from $90.00 to $95.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, February 2nd. Barclays lowered their price objective on Otis Worldwide from $81.00 to $79.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, April 6th. Finally, Morgan Stanley lifted their price objective on Otis Worldwide from $84.00 to $89.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research report on Thursday, February 2nd.

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Otis Worldwide Stock Up 1.4 %

Shares of NYSE:OTIS opened at $82.38 on Tuesday. The firm has a market cap of $34.04 billion, a P/E ratio of 27.74 and a beta of 0.92. Otis Worldwide has a 12-month low of $62.49 and a 12-month high of $87.33. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $82.72 and a 200 day simple moving average of $78.41.

Otis Worldwide Announces Dividend

Otis Worldwide ( NYSE:OTIS Get Rating ) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, February 1st. The company reported $0.75 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.73 by $0.02. The business had revenue of $3.44 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $3.40 billion. Otis Worldwide had a negative return on equity of 27.69% and a net margin of 9.16%. Otis Worldwides revenue for the quarter was down 3.6% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the company earned $0.72 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts expect that Otis Worldwide will post 3.43 EPS for the current year.

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 10th. Stockholders of record on Friday, February 17th were paid a $0.29 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, February 16th. This represents a $1.16 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.41%. Otis Worldwides dividend payout ratio is presently 39.06%.

Insider Buying and Selling at Otis Worldwide

In other Otis Worldwide news, insider Fernandez Bernardo Calleja sold 703 shares of Otis Worldwide stock in a transaction dated Monday, March 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of $86.85, for a total transaction of $61,055.55. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now owns 22,215 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,929,372.75. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. In other Otis Worldwide news, CAO Michael Patrick Ryan sold 3,018 shares of Otis Worldwide stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, February 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of $84.46, for a total transaction of $254,900.28. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. Also, insider Fernandez Bernardo Calleja sold 703 shares of Otis Worldwide stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, March 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of $86.85, for a total transaction of $61,055.55. Following the transaction, the insider now directly owns 22,215 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,929,372.75. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last quarter, insiders sold 32,777 shares of company stock worth $2,759,404. Insiders own 0.11% of the companys stock.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Otis Worldwide

Several hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the company. Vanguard Group Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Otis Worldwide by 0.3% in the 3rd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 39,694,622 shares of the companys stock worth $2,532,517,000 after purchasing an additional 123,746 shares during the period. Morgan Stanley raised its holdings in shares of Otis Worldwide by 5.4% in the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 13,210,697 shares of the companys stock worth $1,034,530,000 after purchasing an additional 681,992 shares during the period. Geode Capital Management LLC raised its holdings in shares of Otis Worldwide by 1.0% in the 4th quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 9,826,431 shares of the companys stock worth $769,080,000 after purchasing an additional 100,079 shares during the period. Boston Partners raised its holdings in shares of Otis Worldwide by 44.3% in the 3rd quarter. Boston Partners now owns 6,150,062 shares of the companys stock worth $393,646,000 after purchasing an additional 1,887,275 shares during the period. Finally, Norges Bank bought a new stake in shares of Otis Worldwide in the 4th quarter worth approximately $370,013,000. Institutional investors own 83.95% of the companys stock.

Otis Worldwide Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Otis Worldwide Corporation manufactures, installs, and services elevators and escalators in the United States, China, and internationally. The company operates in two segments, New Equipment and Service. The New Equipment segment designs, manufactures, sells, and installs a range of passenger and freight elevators, as well as escalators and moving walkways for residential and commercial buildings, and infrastructure projects.

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Provence Wealth Management Group raised its position in Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF (NYSEARCA:VWO  Get Rating) by 48.5% during the 4th quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The fund owned 10,051 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after buying an additional 3,283 shares during the quarter. Provence Wealth Management Groups holdings in Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF were worth $392,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of VWO. Sound Income Strategies LLC lifted its stake in Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF by 311.0% in the 4th quarter. Sound Income Strategies LLC now owns 637 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $25,000 after acquiring an additional 482 shares in the last quarter. Endurance Wealth Management Inc. raised its stake in shares of Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF by 303.2% during the 4th quarter. Endurance Wealth Management Inc. now owns 633 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $25,000 after purchasing an additional 476 shares in the last quarter. Dakota Community Bank & Trust NA raised its stake in shares of Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF by 110.1% during the 4th quarter. Dakota Community Bank & Trust NA now owns 689 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $27,000 after purchasing an additional 361 shares in the last quarter. Boyd Watterson Asset Management LLC OH bought a new stake in shares of Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF during the 4th quarter worth approximately $27,000. Finally, Accel Wealth Management raised its stake in shares of Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF by 63.3% during the 4th quarter. Accel Wealth Management now owns 722 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $28,000 after purchasing an additional 280 shares in the last quarter.

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Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF Trading Down 0.2 %

Shares of Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF stock traded down $0.08 on Tuesday, reaching $40.80. 3,173,917 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 10,595,760. Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF has a one year low of $34.88 and a one year high of $45.09. The company has a market capitalization of $71.40 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 10.00 and a beta of 0.70. The company has a 50-day moving average of $40.19 and a 200 day moving average of $39.48.

About Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF

The Fund seeks to track the performance of the FTSE Emerging Markets All Cap China A Inclusion Index, that measures the return of stocks issued by companies located in emerging market countries.

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Agricultural Bank of China Limited (OTCMKTS:ACGBF  Get Rating) was the recipient of a significant drop in short interest in the month of March. As of March 31st, there was short interest totalling 24,949,100 shares, a drop of 30.0% from the March 15th total of 35,655,600 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 1,800 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 13,860.6 days.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Separately, JPMorgan Chase & Co. upgraded Agricultural Bank of China from a neutral rating to an overweight rating in a research note on Tuesday, March 28th.

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Agricultural Bank of China Price Performance

Shares of ACGBF stock opened at $0.37 on Tuesday. Agricultural Bank of China has a 1-year low of $0.28 and a 1-year high of $0.39.

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S&P Global Inc. (NYSE:SPGI  Get Rating) saw a significant drop in short interest in March. As of March 31st, there was short interest totalling 3,310,000 shares, a drop of 20.4% from the March 15th total of 4,160,000 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 1,390,000 shares, the short-interest ratio is currently 2.4 days.

S&P Global Stock Up 0.3 %

Shares of NYSE:SPGI traded up $1.15 during midday trading on Monday, reaching $349.01. The companys stock had a trading volume of 863,587 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,368,415. The firm has a market capitalization of $114.46 billion, a P/E ratio of 33.24, a PEG ratio of 2.33 and a beta of 1.12. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $345.50 and a 200-day moving average of $340.80. S&P Global has a 12-month low of $279.32 and a 12-month high of $403.48. The company has a quick ratio of 0.94, a current ratio of 0.94 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.29.

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S&P Global (NYSE:SPGI  Get Rating) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, February 9th. The business services provider reported $2.54 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.47 by $0.07. The company had revenue of $2.94 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $2.88 billion. S&P Global had a net margin of 29.05% and a return on equity of 9.84%. S&P Globals revenue was up 40.7% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted $3.15 EPS. On average, research analysts anticipate that S&P Global will post 12.43 earnings per share for the current year.

S&P Global Increases Dividend

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 10th. Stockholders of record on Friday, February 24th were given a dividend of $0.90 per share. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, February 23rd. This represents a $3.60 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.03%. This is a positive change from S&P Globals previous quarterly dividend of $0.85. S&P Globals dividend payout ratio is presently 34.29%.

A number of equities analysts have recently commented on the stock. Oppenheimer raised their price objective on shares of S&P Global from $403.00 to $405.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Tuesday, April 4th. Robert W. Baird raised their price objective on shares of S&P Global from $393.00 to $401.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Friday, February 10th. Morgan Stanley raised their price objective on shares of S&P Global from $388.00 to $403.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Monday, February 6th. Raymond James lifted their target price on shares of S&P Global from $398.00 to $402.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Friday, February 10th. Finally, StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of S&P Global in a research report on Thursday, March 16th. They set a hold rating for the company. One research analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating and sixteen have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $394.50.

Insider Activity at S&P Global

In related news, CEO Douglas L. Peterson sold 7,500 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, February 15th. The shares were sold at an average price of $360.52, for a total transaction of $2,703,900.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 160,816 shares of the companys stock, valued at $57,977,384.32. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. In related news, CEO Douglas L. Peterson sold 7,500 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, February 15th. The shares were sold at an average price of $360.52, for a total transaction of $2,703,900.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 160,816 shares in the company, valued at $57,977,384.32. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. Also, EVP Sally Moore sold 3,499 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Monday, February 13th. The stock was sold at an average price of $367.30, for a total transaction of $1,285,182.70. Following the sale, the executive vice president now owns 4,957 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,820,706.10. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold 11,749 shares of company stock valued at $4,266,185 over the last ninety days. Corporate insiders own 0.10% of the companys stock.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On S&P Global

Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in SPGI. Putnam Investments LLC increased its holdings in S&P Global by 6.2% in the 3rd quarter. Putnam Investments LLC now owns 32,099 shares of the business services providers stock worth $9,801,000 after acquiring an additional 1,868 shares in the last quarter. Keel Point LLC grew its holdings in S&P Global by 6.8% during the 4th quarter. Keel Point LLC now owns 850 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $285,000 after buying an additional 54 shares in the last quarter. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. grew its holdings in S&P Global by 59.9% during the 4th quarter. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. now owns 1,847 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $564,000 after buying an additional 692 shares in the last quarter. Girard Partners LTD. grew its holdings in S&P Global by 10.1% during the 3rd quarter. Girard Partners LTD. now owns 19,199 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $5,862,000 after buying an additional 1,761 shares in the last quarter. Finally, West Coast Financial LLC grew its holdings in S&P Global by 4.0% during the 3rd quarter. West Coast Financial LLC now owns 15,599 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $4,763,000 after buying an additional 606 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 87.27% of the companys stock.

About S&P Global

(Get Rating)

S&P Global, Inc engages in the provision of transparent and independent ratings, benchmarks, analytics, and data to the capital and commodity markets worldwide. It operates through the following segments: Market Intelligence, Ratings, Commodity Insights, Mobility, Indices, and Engineering Solutions. The Market Intelligence segment provides multi-asset-class data and analytics integrated with purpose-built workflow solutions.

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Spinnaker Trust trimmed its holdings in shares of Agilent Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:A  Get Rating) by 12.7% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 2,739 shares of the medical research companys stock after selling 400 shares during the period. Spinnaker Trusts holdings in Agilent Technologies were worth $410,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of A. BlackRock Inc. grew its position in Agilent Technologies by 1.9% in the 3rd quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 32,943,190 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $4,004,242,000 after purchasing an additional 629,153 shares during the period. Vanguard Group Inc. grew its stake in shares of Agilent Technologies by 1.0% in the 3rd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 24,955,720 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $3,033,368,000 after buying an additional 257,455 shares in the last quarter. State Street Corp grew its stake in shares of Agilent Technologies by 0.6% in the 3rd quarter. State Street Corp now owns 13,152,295 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $1,598,661,000 after buying an additional 73,495 shares in the last quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA boosted its stake in shares of Agilent Technologies by 10.7% during the 3rd quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA now owns 6,478,670 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $787,483,000 after purchasing an additional 627,517 shares during the period. Finally, Goldman Sachs Group Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Agilent Technologies by 67.6% during the 1st quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 2,336,607 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $309,203,000 after purchasing an additional 942,651 shares during the period.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of equities research analysts recently weighed in on the stock. Robert W. Baird lifted their price objective on shares of Agilent Technologies from $170.00 to $174.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Wednesday, March 1st. UBS Group lifted their price objective on shares of Agilent Technologies from $152.00 to $170.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, December 20th. StockNews.com downgraded shares of Agilent Technologies from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, March 29th. SVB Leerink boosted their target price on shares of Agilent Technologies from $160.00 to $170.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Friday, January 6th. Finally, Credit Suisse Group boosted their target price on shares of Agilent Technologies from $165.00 to $170.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Wednesday, March 1st. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and nine have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $163.31.

Agilent Technologies Stock Performance

NYSE:A opened at $140.19 on Tuesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.49, a quick ratio of 1.53 and a current ratio of 2.11. The company has a fifty day moving average of $141.04 and a two-hundred day moving average of $144.00. The stock has a market capitalization of $41.45 billion, a PE ratio of 31.65, a P/E/G ratio of 2.04 and a beta of 1.03. Agilent Technologies, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $112.52 and a fifty-two week high of $160.26.

Agilent Technologies (NYSE:A  Get Rating) last issued its earnings results on Tuesday, February 28th. The medical research company reported $1.37 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.31 by $0.06. The business had revenue of $1.76 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.70 billion. Agilent Technologies had a net margin of 19.09% and a return on equity of 30.35%. The companys quarterly revenue was up 4.9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the business earned $1.21 earnings per share. As a group, research analysts forecast that Agilent Technologies, Inc. will post 5.68 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Agilent Technologies Announces Dividend

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, April 26th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, April 4th will be paid a dividend of $0.225 per share. This represents a $0.90 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.64%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, April 3rd. Agilent Technologiess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 20.32%.

Agilent Technologies declared that its Board of Directors has authorized a stock buyback program on Monday, January 9th that authorizes the company to buyback $2.00 billion in shares. This buyback authorization authorizes the medical research company to reacquire up to 4.4% of its shares through open market purchases. Shares buyback programs are usually an indication that the companys board of directors believes its stock is undervalued.

Agilent Technologies Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Agilent Technologies, Inc engages in the provision of application focused solutions for life sciences, diagnostics, and applied chemical markets. It operates through the following segments: Life Sciences and Applied Markets, Diagnostics and Genomics, and Agilent CrossLab. The Life Sciences and Applied Markets segment offers application-focused solutions that include instruments and software that identify, quantify, and analyze the physical and biological properties of substances and products, as well as the clinical and life sciences research areas to interrogate samples at the molecular and cellular level.

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StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of Golden Star Resources (NYSE:GSS  Get Rating) in a research report sent to investors on Friday. The firm issued a hold rating on the stock.

Golden Star Resources Stock Up 0.3 %

Shares of Golden Star Resources stock opened at $3.90 on Friday. Golden Star Resources has a 52 week low of $2.04 and a 52 week high of $4.04.

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About Golden Star Resources

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Golden Star is an established gold mining company that owns and operates the Wassa underground mine in Ghana, West Africa. Listed on the NYSE American, the Toronto Stock Exchange and the Ghanaian Stock Exchange, Golden Star is focused on delivering strong margins and free cash flow. Since winning the PDAC 2018 Environmental and Social Responsibility Award, Golden Star has remained committed to leaving a positive and sustainable legacy in its areas of operation.

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Avista (NYSE:AVA  Get Rating) was upgraded by investment analysts at StockNews.com from a sell rating to a hold rating in a note issued to investors on Monday.

Other analysts also recently issued reports about the stock. TheStreet raised shares of Avista from a c+ rating to a b- rating in a research report on Wednesday, February 22nd. Mizuho downgraded shares of Avista from a neutral rating to an underperform rating and dropped their target price for the stock from $45.00 to $38.00 in a research note on Thursday, February 9th.

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Avista Stock Up 1.3 %

Shares of NYSE:AVA traded up $0.56 during midday trading on Monday, reaching $43.80. The companys stock had a trading volume of 246,068 shares, compared to its average volume of 910,129. The company has a quick ratio of 0.64, a current ratio of 0.75 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.00. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $41.63 and a 200-day moving average of $40.97. The firm has a market capitalization of $3.14 billion, a P/E ratio of 20.66, a PEG ratio of 2.94 and a beta of 0.51. Avista has a 12-month low of $35.72 and a 12-month high of $45.45.

Insiders Place Their Bets

Avista ( NYSE:AVA Get Rating ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, February 22nd. The utilities provider reported $1.05 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.72 by $0.33. Avista had a net margin of 9.14% and a return on equity of 6.87%. The business had revenue of $496.80 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $371.59 million. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $0.71 earnings per share. The businesss revenue was up 18.6% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, research analysts anticipate that Avista will post 2.32 earnings per share for the current year.

In other news, VP Bryan Alden Cox sold 2,542 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Friday, February 24th. The shares were sold at an average price of $41.30, for a total transaction of $104,984.60. Following the sale, the vice president now owns 4,698 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $194,027.40. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. 1.00% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

A number of institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the company. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Avista by 80.0% in the first quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 13,191 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $596,000 after buying an additional 5,864 shares during the last quarter. Natixis Advisors L.P. boosted its stake in shares of Avista by 14.2% during the 1st quarter. Natixis Advisors L.P. now owns 21,371 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $965,000 after acquiring an additional 2,657 shares during the last quarter. Bank of Montreal Can grew its position in shares of Avista by 27.6% during the 1st quarter. Bank of Montreal Can now owns 37,592 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $1,714,000 after acquiring an additional 8,137 shares during the period. D.A. Davidson & CO. increased its stake in shares of Avista by 3.8% in the 1st quarter. D.A. Davidson & CO. now owns 6,983 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $315,000 after purchasing an additional 254 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan Trust Fund bought a new position in Avista in the 1st quarter worth $754,000. Institutional investors own 82.92% of the companys stock.

About Avista

(Get Rating)

Avista Corp. is a holding company, which engages in the provision of electric and natural gas utility business. It operates through the Avista Utilities, and Alaska Electric Light and Power Company (AEL&P) segments. The Avista Utilities segment includes electric distribution and transmission, and natural gas distribution services in parts of eastern Washington, Northern Idaho, and Northeastern and Southwestern Oregon.

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Taylor Wimpey (LON:TW  Get Rating) had its price objective hoisted by stock analysts at JPMorgan Chase & Co. from GBX 120 ($1.48) to GBX 130 ($1.61) in a research note issued on Tuesday, MarketBeat.com reports. The brokerage presently has a neutral rating on the homebuilders stock. JPMorgan Chase & Co.s price objective would indicate a potential upside of 5.56% from the companys current price.

TW has been the subject of a number of other research reports. Liberum Capital reiterated a hold rating and issued a GBX 125 ($1.55) price objective on shares of Taylor Wimpey in a report on Monday, February 13th. Citigroup reiterated a buy rating on shares of Taylor Wimpey in a report on Tuesday, January 17th. Jefferies Financial Group raised their price target on Taylor Wimpey from GBX 142 ($1.76) to GBX 154 ($1.91) and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, March 8th. Morgan Stanley upgraded Taylor Wimpey to an equal weight rating in a report on Tuesday, January 31st. Finally, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft downgraded Taylor Wimpey to a hold rating in a report on Monday, February 13th. Five research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of GBX 129.50 ($1.60).

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Taylor Wimpey Price Performance

LON TW traded up GBX 1.55 ($0.02) on Tuesday, reaching GBX 123.15 ($1.52). 8,383,152 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 2,409,451. Taylor Wimpey has a 12 month low of GBX 80.64 ($1.00) and a 12 month high of GBX 135.25 ($1.67). The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.57, a current ratio of 4.71 and a quick ratio of 0.71. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of GBX 118.51 and a 200 day simple moving average of GBX 107.57. The stock has a market cap of 4.35 billion, a PE ratio of 684.17, a P/E/G ratio of -0.99 and a beta of 1.79.

Insider Transactions at Taylor Wimpey

Taylor Wimpey Company Profile

In other Taylor Wimpey news, insider Chris Carney sold 73,817 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Thursday, March 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of GBX 118 ($1.46), for a total value of 87,104.06 ($107,788.71). Corporate insiders own 0.97% of the companys stock.

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Taylor Wimpey plc operates a residential developer in the United Kingdom and Spain. It builds and delivers various homes and communities, including apartments to six-bedroom houses. Taylor Wimpey plc was founded in 1880 and is based in High Wycombe, the United Kingdom.

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The Cushing MLP & Infrastructure Total Return Fund (NYSE:SRV  Get Rating) was the recipient of a significant drop in short interest in the month of March. As of March 31st, there was short interest totalling 23,900 shares, a drop of 21.1% from the March 15th total of 30,300 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 26,700 shares, the short-interest ratio is presently 0.9 days.

The Cushing MLP & Infrastructure Total Return Fund Stock Down 0.5 %

SRV stock traded down $0.17 during midday trading on Monday, hitting $33.47. The companys stock had a trading volume of 33,668 shares, compared to its average volume of 26,480. The stocks 50-day moving average price is $33.89 and its 200 day moving average price is $34.50. The Cushing MLP & Infrastructure Total Return Fund has a 1 year low of $26.24 and a 1 year high of $38.00.

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The Cushing MLP & Infrastructure Total Return Fund Dividend Announcement

The company also recently announced a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, May 31st. Shareholders of record on Monday, May 15th will be paid a $0.45 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, May 12th. This represents a $5.40 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 16.13%.

Insider Buying and Selling at The Cushing MLP & Infrastructure Total Return Fund

Institutional Trading of The Cushing MLP & Infrastructure Total Return Fund

In other The Cushing MLP & Infrastructure Total Return Fund news, major shareholder Saba Capital Management, L.P. sold 1,118 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, February 7th. The stock was sold at an average price of $36.16, for a total value of $40,426.88. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now owns 213,924 shares of the companys stock, valued at $7,735,491.84. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink

Hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the company. LPL Financial LLC raised its stake in shares of The Cushing MLP & Infrastructure Total Return Fund by 4.6% during the 4th quarter. LPL Financial LLC now owns 9,169 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $308,000 after purchasing an additional 407 shares during the period. UBS Group AG raised its stake in shares of The Cushing MLP & Infrastructure Total Return Fund by 15.6% during the 2nd quarter. UBS Group AG now owns 6,012 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $167,000 after purchasing an additional 811 shares during the period. Clough Capital Partners L P raised its stake in shares of The Cushing MLP & Infrastructure Total Return Fund by 2.4% during the 3rd quarter. Clough Capital Partners L P now owns 38,000 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $1,238,000 after purchasing an additional 900 shares during the period. Captrust Financial Advisors bought a new stake in shares of The Cushing MLP & Infrastructure Total Return Fund during the 2nd quarter valued at $45,000. Finally, Bulldog Investors LLP raised its stake in shares of The Cushing MLP & Infrastructure Total Return Fund by 3.3% during the 3rd quarter. Bulldog Investors LLP now owns 84,414 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $2,750,000 after purchasing an additional 2,690 shares during the period.

About The Cushing MLP & Infrastructure Total Return Fund

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The Cushing MLP & Infrastructure Total Return Fund is a non-diversified, closed-end management investment company. Its investment objective is to obtain a high after-tax total return from a combination of capital appreciation and current income. The company was founded on May 23, 2007 and is headquartered in Dallas, TX.

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The Goldman Sachs Group (NYSE:GS  Get Rating) released its earnings results on Tuesday. The investment management company reported $8.79 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $8.14 by $0.65, Briefing.com reports. The Goldman Sachs Group had a net margin of 16.39% and a return on equity of 10.55%. The company had revenue of $12.22 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $12.66 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company earned $10.76 EPS. The Goldman Sachs Groups quarterly revenue was down 5.5% compared to the same quarter last year.

The Goldman Sachs Group Trading Down 1.7 %

Shares of The Goldman Sachs Group stock opened at $333.91 on Wednesday. The Goldman Sachs Group has a 12-month low of $277.84 and a 12-month high of $389.58. The company has a market cap of $111.46 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 11.11, a PEG ratio of 0.77 and a beta of 1.41. The company has a current ratio of 0.90, a quick ratio of 0.90 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.32. The companys 50-day moving average price is $340.13 and its 200-day moving average price is $346.72.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several research analysts have weighed in on GS shares. Royal Bank of Canada upped their price objective on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group from $339.00 to $375.00 in a report on Wednesday. StockNews.com started coverage on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group in a report on Thursday, March 16th. They set a hold rating on the stock. Bank of America upped their price objective on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group from $384.00 to $425.00 in a report on Thursday, March 9th. UBS Group upgraded shares of The Goldman Sachs Group from a neutral rating to a buy rating in a report on Tuesday, April 11th. Finally, JMP Securities upped their price objective on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group from $460.00 to $470.00 in a report on Wednesday. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, six have given a hold rating and eleven have given a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $393.42.

Insider Transactions at The Goldman Sachs Group

Institutional Investors Weigh In On The Goldman Sachs Group

In other news, major shareholder Goldman Sachs Group Inc sold 4,000,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, March 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $6.43, for a total value of $25,720,000.00. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 17,099,784 shares of the companys stock, valued at $109,951,611.12. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this link . Over the last ninety days, insiders have sold 4,105,275 shares of company stock valued at $26,412,477. 0.54% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of GS. Norges Bank purchased a new stake in The Goldman Sachs Group in the fourth quarter valued at approximately $759,531,000. Morgan Stanley raised its stake in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 40.0% during the fourth quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 5,936,351 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $2,038,425,000 after acquiring an additional 1,696,350 shares in the last quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC raised its stake in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 168,772.3% during the fourth quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC now owns 1,244,589 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $427,367,000 after acquiring an additional 1,243,852 shares in the last quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP raised its stake in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 58.5% during the first quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 1,298,015 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $428,474,000 after acquiring an additional 479,032 shares in the last quarter. Finally, CI Private Wealth LLC purchased a new position in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group during the fourth quarter worth approximately $41,102,000. 69.09% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

About The Goldman Sachs Group

(Get Rating)

The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc engages in the provision of financial services. It operates through the following business segments: Global Banking and Markets, Asset and Wealth Management, and Platform Solutions. The Global Banking and Markets segment includes investment banking, equity and debt underwriting, Fixed Income, Currency, and Commodities (FICC) intermediation and financing activities, relationship lending and acquisition financing, and investing activities.

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ARCADIA  Ashley for the Arts is set to bring music-lovers and their families together yet again Aug. 10-12.

The full lineup for the main stage will feature a variety of acts covering multiple genres.

On Thursday, Restless Road will take the main stage at 8 p.m.

Fridays lineup is set to include Sawyer Brown at 3 p.m., Trace Adkins at 5 p.m., Jake Owen at 7 p.m. and Reo Speedwagon at 9 p.m.

As for Saturday, the main stage will feature Raelynn at 3 p.m., Walk the Moon at 5 p.m., Tyler Hubbard of Florida Georgia Line at 7 p.m. and OneRepublic at 9 p.m.

Weve had a few years in a row here where we were fairly country-heavy on our headliners. We pride ourselves on being a multi-genre event. Were excited this year to kind of level the playing field with a little more pop and contemporary country, said Ashley for the Arts event manager Bailey Waldera. So we have a little bit of classic rock, a little bit of classic country, modern country and we are welcoming Walk The Moon and One Republic for our pop.

The fun of the festival doesnt stop with the headline acts.

Along with side stage music, there will also be events such as an art and craft fair, painting in the park and a photo contest.

There is also set to be a large amount of family-focused fun, including circus acts, lumberjack show, inflatable air park, petting zoo, fireworks and more.

Additionally, a Pursuit of a Cure Glow Run is scheduled for Thursday evening to start the event.

Pursuit of a Cure acts as a fundraiser to advance medical research and help offset the medical-related costs that families incur during medical emergencies, according to the events website. The funds raised during Pursuit of a Cure benefit the American Cancer Society, Rita Tranberg Memorial and the Arcadia Ambulance Service.

Profits from the festival are donated to local organizations that volunteer during the weekend.

We have almost 4,000 volunteer shifts throughout the weekend, and those volunteers help basically run our event with us, Waldera said.

Last year, over 70 nonprofit organizations benefited from the donated funds.

Supported organizations in the past have included American Cancer Society, Aquinas Catholic School, Arcadia Food Pantry, Arcadia schools, Cotter schools, La Crosse schools, Saint Marys University of Minnesota, Trempealeau County Humane Society, Trempealeau County Fair, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, Winona schools, Winona State University and more.

Last year, Ashley for the Arts donated almost $650,000 to local nonprofit organizations.

Ashley for the Arts also offers Community Care Grants, which help support nonprofit organizations conduct projects that focus on the arts, music or cultural activities that are accessible to the general public.

Beyond organizations, Waldera said Ashley for the Arts is benefits the surrounding area because the tens of thousands of people who attend the event each year provide increased business to the vendors who work at the festival, along with other businesses in the area.

Its really not only that we can raise that kind of money for local area organizations, were also helping the local businesses and community showcase what they they bring to the table and what they offer and hopefully they have a financial benefit from the weekend as well, Waldera said.

To purchase tickets for the festival or to register for the glow run ahead of time, visit www.ashleyforthearts.com.
Tobam grew its holdings in Archer-Daniels-Midland Company (NYSE:ADM  Get Rating) by 64.0% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 4,763 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 1,859 shares during the quarter. Tobams holdings in Archer-Daniels-Midland were worth $442,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of the company. Massmutual Trust Co. FSB ADV boosted its stake in shares of Archer-Daniels-Midland by 71.6% in the 3rd quarter. Massmutual Trust Co. FSB ADV now owns 326 shares of the companys stock valued at $26,000 after purchasing an additional 136 shares during the last quarter. Selective Wealth Management Inc. boosted its stake in Archer-Daniels-Midland by 681.8% during the 3rd quarter. Selective Wealth Management Inc. now owns 344 shares of the companys stock worth $28,000 after acquiring an additional 300 shares during the last quarter. Kistler Tiffany Companies LLC bought a new position in Archer-Daniels-Midland during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $29,000. Glassy Mountain Advisors Inc. bought a new position in Archer-Daniels-Midland during the 4th quarter worth approximately $32,000. Finally, Exchange Traded Concepts LLC boosted its stake in Archer-Daniels-Midland by 655.8% during the 4th quarter. Exchange Traded Concepts LLC now owns 393 shares of the companys stock worth $36,000 after acquiring an additional 341 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 78.23% of the companys stock.

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Archer-Daniels-Midland Price Performance

Shares of ADM opened at $82.20 on Tuesday. The company has a market cap of $44.92 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 10.66, a PEG ratio of 1.90 and a beta of 0.80. Archer-Daniels-Midland Company has a 1-year low of $70.02 and a 1-year high of $98.88. The companys fifty day simple moving average is $79.74 and its 200 day simple moving average is $86.60. The company has a current ratio of 1.46, a quick ratio of 0.85 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.32.

Archer-Daniels-Midland Increases Dividend

Archer-Daniels-Midland ( NYSE:ADM Get Rating ) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, January 26th. The company reported $1.93 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.64 by $0.29. Archer-Daniels-Midland had a net margin of 4.26% and a return on equity of 18.32%. The business had revenue of $26.23 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $25.37 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the company earned $1.50 earnings per share. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 13.6% on a year-over-year basis. On average, research analysts forecast that Archer-Daniels-Midland Company will post 6.75 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, March 2nd. Shareholders of record on Thursday, February 9th were given a dividend of $0.45 per share. This represents a $1.80 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.19%. This is a boost from Archer-Daniels-Midlands previous quarterly dividend of $0.40. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, February 8th. Archer-Daniels-Midlands payout ratio is 23.35%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several research analysts recently weighed in on ADM shares. BMO Capital Markets started coverage on shares of Archer-Daniels-Midland in a research note on Thursday, April 13th. They set an outperform rating and a $100.00 price objective on the stock. JPMorgan Chase & Co. dropped their target price on shares of Archer-Daniels-Midland from $87.00 to $85.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, April 12th. Stifel Nicolaus raised their target price on shares of Archer-Daniels-Midland from $114.00 to $116.00 in a report on Tuesday, January 3rd. StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of Archer-Daniels-Midland in a report on Thursday, March 16th. They set a buy rating on the stock. Finally, Morgan Stanley dropped their target price on shares of Archer-Daniels-Midland from $94.00 to $85.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, April 13th. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and seven have given a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $100.30.

About Archer-Daniels-Midland

(Get Rating)

Archer-Daniels-Midland Co engages in the production of oilseeds, corn, wheat, cocoa, and other agricultural commodities. It operates through the following segments: Ag Services and Oilseeds, Carbohydrate Solutions, Nutrition, and Other. The Ag Services and Oilseeds segment includes activities related to the origination, merchandising, transportation, and storage of agricultural raw materials, and the crushing and further processing of oilseeds such as soybeans and soft seeds cottonseed, sunflower seed, canola, rapeseed, and flaxseed into vegetable oils and protein meals.

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B. Riley started coverage on shares of Vishay Precision Group (NYSE:VPG  Get Rating) in a research report sent to investors on Friday, Marketbeat reports. The firm issued a buy rating and a $54.00 price objective on the scientific and technical instruments companys stock. B. Riley also issued estimates for Vishay Precision Groups Q1 2023 earnings at $0.53 EPS, Q2 2023 earnings at $0.56 EPS, Q3 2023 earnings at $0.64 EPS, Q4 2023 earnings at $0.71 EPS and FY2024 earnings at $2.92 EPS.

Separately, StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of Vishay Precision Group in a report on Thursday, March 16th. They issued a strong-buy rating on the stock.

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Vishay Precision Group Trading Down 0.6 %

Shares of NYSE:VPG opened at $40.88 on Friday. Vishay Precision Group has a 52-week low of $27.03 and a 52-week high of $45.69. The company has a market capitalization of $555.07 million, a P/E ratio of 15.48 and a beta of 1.33. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $42.05 and a 200 day simple moving average of $39.42. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.20, a quick ratio of 2.60 and a current ratio of 3.91.

Insider Buying and Selling at Vishay Precision Group

Vishay Precision Group ( NYSE:VPG Get Rating ) last issued its earnings results on Tuesday, February 14th. The scientific and technical instruments company reported $0.76 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.62 by $0.14. The business had revenue of $96.24 million during the quarter. Vishay Precision Group had a net margin of 9.95% and a return on equity of 12.37%. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $0.56 earnings per share.

In other Vishay Precision Group news, Director Wes Cummins bought 7,500 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Thursday, February 23rd. The shares were bought at an average cost of $44.72 per share, with a total value of $335,400.00. Following the completion of the acquisition, the director now owns 446,792 shares of the companys stock, valued at $19,980,538.24. The purchase was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Insiders have purchased a total of 57,500 shares of company stock valued at $2,454,150 in the last three months. 6.78% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Legal & General Group Plc boosted its position in shares of Vishay Precision Group by 5.9% during the 4th quarter. Legal & General Group Plc now owns 4,665 shares of the scientific and technical instruments companys stock worth $180,000 after acquiring an additional 258 shares in the last quarter. BNP Paribas Arbitrage SA boosted its position in shares of Vishay Precision Group by 6.3% during the 1st quarter. BNP Paribas Arbitrage SA now owns 7,485 shares of the scientific and technical instruments companys stock worth $241,000 after acquiring an additional 442 shares in the last quarter. Alliancebernstein L.P. boosted its position in shares of Vishay Precision Group by 6.0% during the 4th quarter. Alliancebernstein L.P. now owns 8,800 shares of the scientific and technical instruments companys stock worth $340,000 after acquiring an additional 500 shares in the last quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. boosted its position in shares of Vishay Precision Group by 1.6% during the 4th quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 33,289 shares of the scientific and technical instruments companys stock worth $1,287,000 after acquiring an additional 514 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Northwest Investment Counselors LLC boosted its position in shares of Vishay Precision Group by 2.0% during the 3rd quarter. Northwest Investment Counselors LLC now owns 30,116 shares of the scientific and technical instruments companys stock worth $891,000 after acquiring an additional 594 shares in the last quarter. 77.31% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

Vishay Precision Group Company Profile

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Vishay Precision Group, Inc engages in the provision of precision measurement and sensing technologies. The firm serves a diverse array of industries and markets, including industrial, test and measurement, transportation, steel, medical, agriculture, avionics, military and space, and consumer. It operates through the following segments: Sensors, Weighing Solutions, Measurement Systems, and Corporate and Other.

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Forsta AP Fonden grew its holdings in shares of Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC) by 17.0% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 949,400 shares of the financial services providers stock after purchasing an additional 137,800 shares during the quarter. Forsta AP Fondens holdings in Wells Fargo & Company were worth $39,201,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other large investors have also modified their holdings of WFC. Vanguard Group Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Wells Fargo & Company by 1.2% in the third quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 326,822,162 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $13,144,788,000 after buying an additional 3,920,830 shares in the last quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD boosted its position in shares of Wells Fargo & Company by 20.9% during the 3rd quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 105,621,983 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $4,248,626,000 after acquiring an additional 18,252,701 shares during the last quarter. Sanders Capital LLC grew its holdings in shares of Wells Fargo & Company by 1.7% in the third quarter. Sanders Capital LLC now owns 25,041,576 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,007,172,000 after purchasing an additional 416,171 shares during the period. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. grew its holdings in shares of Wells Fargo & Company by 0.3% in the first quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 21,901,706 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,061,357,000 after purchasing an additional 64,080 shares during the period. Finally, Dimensional Fund Advisors LP increased its position in Wells Fargo & Company by 0.8% during the third quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP now owns 19,030,663 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $765,495,000 after purchasing an additional 153,177 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 72.24% of the companys stock.

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Insider Transactions at Wells Fargo & Company

In related news, EVP Kleber Santos sold 34,698 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, February 23rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $46.27, for a total value of $1,605,476.46. Following the sale, the executive vice president now owns 19,590 shares of the companys stock, valued at $906,429.30. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Corporate insiders own 0.07% of the companys stock.

Wells Fargo & Company Stock Up 0.4 %

Wells Fargo & Company stock traded up $0.18 during mid-day trading on Tuesday, reaching $41.48. 9,140,484 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 23,310,996. The company has a quick ratio of 0.83, a current ratio of 0.83 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.06. Wells Fargo & Company has a twelve month low of $35.25 and a twelve month high of $49.49. The company has a market cap of $156.67 billion, a P/E ratio of 11.85, a P/E/G ratio of 0.83 and a beta of 1.12. The company has a fifty day moving average of $42.26 and a 200-day moving average of $43.50.

Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE:WFC  Get Rating) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Friday, April 14th. The financial services provider reported $1.23 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.15 by $0.08. The business had revenue of $20.73 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $20.06 billion. Wells Fargo & Company had a return on equity of 10.07% and a net margin of 15.93%. During the same period last year, the firm earned $0.88 earnings per share. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 16.9% compared to the same quarter last year. Sell-side analysts expect that Wells Fargo & Company will post 4.66 EPS for the current year.

Wells Fargo & Company Announces Dividend

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, March 1st. Shareholders of record on Friday, February 3rd were given a $0.30 dividend. This represents a $1.20 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.89%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, February 2nd. Wells Fargo & Companys dividend payout ratio is currently 34.38%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several research firms have recently weighed in on WFC. Royal Bank of Canada dropped their price target on shares of Wells Fargo & Company from $45.00 to $42.00 and set a sector perform rating for the company in a research note on Friday, March 24th. Raymond James increased their price objective on Wells Fargo & Company from $47.00 to $48.00 and gave the stock a strong-buy rating in a research report on Monday. Odeon Capital Group downgraded Wells Fargo & Company from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Monday, March 13th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. decreased their price target on Wells Fargo & Company from $49.00 to $45.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, April 10th. Finally, Piper Sandler downgraded Wells Fargo & Company from an overweight rating to a neutral rating and cut their price objective for the stock from $49.00 to $47.00 in a research report on Tuesday, January 17th. Seven analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, eight have given a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $49.45.

About Wells Fargo & Company

(Get Rating)

Wells Fargo & Co is a diversified, community-based financial services company. It is engaged in the provision of banking, insurance, investments, mortgage products and services, and consumer and commercial finance. It operates through the following segments: Consumer Banking and Lending, Commercial Banking, Corporate and Investment Banking, and Wealth & Investment Management.

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Whitecap Resources (TSE:WCP  Get Rating) had its price target lifted by research analysts at National Bankshares from C$15.50 to C$16.50 in a research report issued to clients and investors on Tuesday, BayStreet.CA reports. National Bankshares target price would indicate a potential upside of 49.32% from the companys current price.

Other equities research analysts have also issued reports about the company. Canaccord Genuity Group reduced their price objective on Whitecap Resources from C$15.00 to C$14.50 in a research note on Wednesday, March 29th. Stifel Nicolaus raised their price objective on Whitecap Resources from C$13.50 to C$14.00 in a research note on Friday, February 24th. Barclays set a C$14.00 price objective on Whitecap Resources and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Wednesday, January 18th. TD Securities raised their target price on shares of Whitecap Resources from C$16.50 to C$17.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, December 21st. Finally, ATB Capital lowered their price target on shares of Whitecap Resources from C$16.00 to C$15.00 in a report on Monday. Six equities research analysts have rated the stock with a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Buy and a consensus target price of C$14.91.

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Whitecap Resources Stock Performance

WCP stock traded up C$0.04 during trading on Tuesday, reaching C$11.05. The stock had a trading volume of 282,287 shares, compared to its average volume of 2,388,252. The firm has a market cap of C$6.73 billion, a PE ratio of 4.07, a PEG ratio of -0.33 and a beta of 2.91. The company has a current ratio of 1.29, a quick ratio of 0.67 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 37.10. The stocks 50 day moving average is C$10.51 and its two-hundred day moving average is C$10.46. Whitecap Resources has a 52 week low of C$7.70 and a 52 week high of C$12.71.

Insider Activity at Whitecap Resources

Whitecap Resources Company Profile

In other news, Director Grant Bradley Fagerheim bought 10,000 shares of the stock in a transaction on Monday, March 13th. The stock was acquired at an average cost of C$10.14 per share, for a total transaction of C$101,400.00. Over the last quarter, insiders bought 17,660 shares of company stock worth $178,651. Company insiders own 0.74% of the companys stock.

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Whitecap Resources Inc, oil and gas company, acquires and develops petroleum and natural gas properties in Canada. Its principal properties are located in West Central Alberta, British Columbia, Southeast Saskatchewan, West Central Saskatchewan, and Southwest Saskatchewan. As of February 14, 2022, it had a total proved plus probable reserves of 701,829 thousand barrels of oil equivalent.

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Union minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar on Monday accused the Congress and the JD(S) of joining hands by promising to reverse the Karnataka government order to scrap the four per cent quota for Muslims to deny benefits given to Vokkaligas, Lingayats as well as SCs and STs. Describing the Janata Dal (Secular) as the B-team of the Congress, he said on Twitter that the BJP will stand strongly with these communities and will make sure it is with them for their progress. He used the hashtag "anti-Hindu Congress" to target the opposition party. While Karnataka Congress leaders want to reverse reservation, Rahul Gandhi "dropped" into Karnataka and said he wants to breach the Supreme Court limit on reservations, the BJP MP from the state tweeted. "So the Congress politics of lies and promise and scoot politics continues. That is why voters chose BJP bcoz we deliver what we promise," he said. BJP I-T department head Amit Malviya alleged that Gandhi is being "disingenuous" with his claim on the issue of social justice when the erstwhile Siddaramaiah-led Congress government did nothing to address long-pending demands of Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs) and Other Backward Classes (OBCs). "On the contrary, the BJP, in a series of steps since Oct 2022 did everything to empower them. The BJP government ensured reservation for SCs (17%, up from 15% earlier) and STs (7%, up from 3% earlier) was hiked in proportion to their population," he said. In March 2023, he added, the BJP ensured sub-categorisation of the SC quota, a long-pending demand "Siddaramaiah slept over when in office". "In addition, BJP removed the blatantly unconstitutional and communal religion based quota of 4% for Muslims and redistributed it between the agricultural communities represented by the Lingayats (their share went up from 5 to 7% under 2D)and Vokkaligas (from 4 to 6% under 2C)," Malviya said. Gandhi has pitched for reservation in line with population as he demanded the release of the caste census which, he said, was done during the UPA government. He has also called for lifting the reservation cap.
Amidst all the obsession over Bharatiya Janata Party and Congress, all eyes are on the performance of Janata Dal (Secular). Will it spoil the party of both Congress and BJP and force a hung assembly situation? Will it bargain hard for the top chair? Who will it choose as its bride - Congress or BJP? In 2018, after a long spell in the wilderness, lady luck smiled again on former Prime Minister JD Deve Gowdas family, which helms JD(S), when BJP fell short of majority by 9 seats. JD(S) with 37 MLAs held the keys to government formation and it allied with the Congress. Gowdas son HD Kumaraswamy became CM but could last less than 15 months as few MLAs of ruling coalition resigned and joined the BJP. In the past four elections, JD(S)s average vote share has been around 20 percent and the seat tally around 40, forcing a hung verdict twice (2004 and 2018). JD(S) believes without their support no party can form a government in Karnataka. JD(S) Victory Ruled Out Though JD(S) claims that it will form the government, in reality the party and leadership is praying for a hung house again. JD(S) does not have a state wide presence. Its influence (where it has been in number 1 or 2 positions) is restricted to just 90 seats. There are 154 seats which it has never won in the last three polls after delimitation. JD(S) got half of its total votes from just 39 seats in 2018. On 56 seats it scored less than 5,000 votes. On around 60 percent of the seats there is a direct contest between the BJP and the Congress. A Vokkaliga-Southern Karnataka Party JD(S) influence is largely restricted to Southern Karnataka, in the Old Mysuru and Bengaluru regions. 65 percent of the total votes JD(S) received in 2018 come from these two regions (47 percent + 18 percent). It had the highest vote share amongst all parties in the Old Mysuru region (37 percent). In Bengaluru too, its vote share is decent, higher than its state average. In all other regions, its vote share was paltry in the range of 6-14 percent. It won 65 percent of its seats from Old Mysuru and another 20 percent from Bengaluru. Vokkaligas, forming 11 percent of the population, have been backing JD(S) since its inception (47 percent Vokkaligas voted JD(S) in 2018). However, the party does not have any other anchor vote segment. Vokkaligas account for 1/3rd of its total vote share, along with Other OBCs, these two groups account for half of its vote share. But JD(S) Holds Some Cards There are 25 stronghold seats of JD(S) which it has won twice/thrice in the last three polls. This indicates a base level strength, a sort of minimum tally it could fetch in 2023 as well. The average victory margin of JD(S) is higher than BJP and Congress at 13 percent. When it wins, it wins big; 57 percent of its seats were won by more than 10 percent victory margin. On 23 seats it polled more votes than margin of victory, 14 were won by BJP and 9 by Congress, making JD(S) a kind of spoilsport for a party that falls short of the majority mark. Why Congress Fears JD(S) The primary challenger of JD(S) in Old Mysuru is Congress. So if JD(S) improves upon its historical performance, then Congress will need a better strike rate against BJP in other regions / rest of Karnataka. If it performs worse, then Congress stands to benefit. If JD(S) performs better in Bengaluru then it damages the prospects of both BJP and Congress. Whatever minority community votes JD(S) gets is at the cost of Congress. So will JD(S) emerge as kingmakers again? Only time and a hung assembly can reveal the answers. Amitabh Tiwari is a former corporate and investment banker-turned political strategist and commentator. Twitter: @politicalbaaba. Views are personal and do not represent the stand of this publication.
Adani Groups pile of debt increased almost 21% over the past year and the proportion held by global banks rose to nearly a third, according to data seen by Bloomberg that offers an up-to-date snapshot of its financial health. Information gleaned from people familiar with the conglomerates inner workings as well as from presentations to investors reveal 29% of its borrowings were with global international banks at the end of March  a category that didnt feature on the groups list of creditors seven years ago. Yet the data also show a metric for its ability to pay off its debts improved. The shifting state of its finances and creditor mix underscores just how swiftly billionaire Gautam Adanis group, based in the Indian state of Gujarat, has grown and how connected it has become internationally, with business interests as far away as Australia and Israel. But with that worldwide engagement comes heightened scrutiny, such as it faced when US shortseller Hindenburg Research accused it of extensive corporate fraud. Despite Adani executives repeatedly denying the allegations and seeking to reassure investors with in-person meetings and repaying debt, the conglomerates stocks and dollar bonds have yet to fully recover from the selloff caused by Hindenburg. That suggests the group may have to pay more to raise money down the road, though an improving debt ratio might help counter any increase. Two global rating firms have said they will closely watch Adani entities ability to raise funds. Here are some details on how the conglomerates finances stacked up as of the end of last month. A spokesman for Adani Group did not immediately comment when contacted by Bloomberg about the figures. Adani firms have over the past few years improved on a key metric measuring a companys ability to service its liabilities, according to the data seen by Bloomberg. The ratio of net debt to run-rate earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization was about 3.2 in the 2023 fiscal year, which ended in March. Thats down from what an Adani report from last September showed to be 7.6 in 2013. Run-rate Ebitda is calculated by an extrapolation of a firms recent financial performance. Adani Group was looking to reduce its debt further, according to the data. Concerns about Adani finances started making headlines last year, when research firm CreditSights termed it deeply overleveraged. The group countered the claim by saying companies had reduced their debt burden. Gross debt at seven main listed Adani firms rose 20.7% to 2.3 trillion rupees ($28 billion) as of March 31, according to the people familiar with the matter, who asked not to be named because they werent authorized to speak publicly about it. The borrowings have risen steadily since 2019, as the conglomerate expanded at breakneck speed. Fallout from Hindenburgs report, published in late January, has resulted in Adani Group rescaling its grand ambitions, dialing back on petrochemicals, aluminum, steel and road projects while focusing on its core areas that include ports, power and green energy, Bloomberg reported last month. The most recent data seen by Bloomberg give a sense of creditor exposure. Bonds accounted for 39% of the groups borrowings as of end March, up from 14% in 2016. Still, local borrowings can be sizable. State Bank of India, the nations top lender by assets, had an exposure of about 270 billion rupees ($3.3 billion) to the group, its chairman said in February. Moodys Investors Service in February flagged the risk of a jump in funding costs and refinancing needs worth billions of dollars in the next few years. But a spokesman for the conglomerate told Bloomberg earlier this month theres no material refinancing risk and that near-term liquidity requirements are comfortable because there are no big debt repayments due in coming months. The upside of Adanis growth and diversification has been a steadily increasing pile of assets  a more than doubling in five years. The first-generation entrepreneur started off as a diamond trader in the 1980s and was until recently Asias richest man. He built his empire on the ports and coal trading and in the past few years expanded into airports, renewable energy, data centers, cement and media.
Fintech unicorn Razorpay announced on April 18 that it has set up an advisory board that will focus on setting up standards around customer experience, governance, compliance, and risk management practices and has roped in NS Vishwanathan, former deputy governor of Reserve Bank of India (RBI), as the chairperson of the board. Razorpay's advisory board will also have industry veterans and IAS officers including Arijit Basu, Chairman, HDB Financial Services and former MD, State Bank of India; Aruna Sundararajan, retired IAS and former secretary, Ministry of Steel and KP Krishnan, another retired IAS officer and former secretary of Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship as its members. All the members of the advisory board will periodically convene to review, analyse and provide recommendations and directions on both strategic and tactical levels, the company said in a media statement. "In our next phase of growth as Indias leading end-to-end money movement platform for businesses, we have a strong intent to put in place further systems to uphold the highest standards of customer experience and governance," said Harshil Mathur, CEO and Co-Founder of Razorpay. The advisory board will assist Razorpay in developing long-term strategies, anticipating challenges and suggesting mitigation measures, the statement said. In light of Indias rapidly evolving financial sector, it is crucial to foster collaboration with innovative fintech companies to drive progress and deliver superior yet compliant services to businesses and consumers," said Vishwanathan. Founded in 2013 by alumni of IIT Roorkee, Shashank Kumar and Harshil Mathur, Razorpay is the second Indian company to be a part of Silicon Valleys largest tech accelerator, Y Combinator. Investors such as Lone Pine Capital, Alkeon Capital, TCV, GIC, Tiger Global, Sequoia Capital India, Ribbit Capital, Matrix Partners, Salesforce Ventures, Y Combinator and MasterCard have invested a total of $741.5 Mn through Series A to F in funding. Several fintech companies are either setting up Advisory Board or roping in independent advisors as a good governance practice. Fintech firm Slice too recently appointed S Vishvanathan, Managing Director of State Bank of India as an Advisor. Razorpay's advisory board will focus on accelerating product innovation around customer experience and customer safety, building the best-in-class practices for regulatory and compliance management processes and working with various stakeholders to enhance risk monitoring and cybercrime prevention. "The council will also help contribute to the development of Razorpays payment infrastructure and help engage with key institutions and stakeholders," the statement said.
Apple's first India retail store, Apple BKC, opened its doors to customers on April 18 in Mumbai, nearly three years after it debuted its online store in the country and more than 25 years after it began operations here. The opening of this 20,000-square-foot store signals Apple's growing ambitions in the world's second-largest smartphone market, which has grown in importance for the company in terms of both sales and manufacturing capabilities in recent years. Following the opening of the Mumbai store, the company will inaugurate another outlet called Apple Saket in Delhi on April 20. Apple said last week that the launch of new stores marks a significant expansion of its operations in the country that will allow customers new ways to browse, discover, and buy the company's products with "exceptional" service and experiences. With this, India will join the ranks of countries where Apple has retail outlets, including the United States, Canada, Australia, China, the United Kingdom, and the United Arab Emirates. Apple has approximately 521 stores worldwide, which contribute a significant portion of its revenue. Prior to the opening of this store, Apple relied on a network of third-party distributors, retail partners, and online platforms to sell its products in the country. Read: Apple BKC store opens today in Mumbai. Here's a sneak peek In an indication of India's rising importance for Apple, the company chief executive Tim Cook is also visiting the country after nearly seven years to inaugurate these outlets. At the Mumbai launch event, Cook was joined by Deirdre O'Brien, Apple's senior vice president of retail, who welcomed the first few customers to the store. "The energy, creativity, and passion in Mumbai is incredible! We are so excited to open Apple BKC  our first store in India" Tim Cook said in a tweet on April 18. During his India trip, Cook is expected to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Union Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology Rajeev Chandrasekhar. On April 17, he met India's top business stalwarts, including Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani and Tata Sons chairman N Chandrasekaran. Prior to his visit, Cook had said in a statement that the company is excited to build on its over 25-year history in the country by supporting its customers, investing in local communities, and working together to "build a better future with innovations that serve humanity" "India has such a beautiful culture and an incredible energy," he said. Cook's visit to India comes at a time when Apple has clocked record revenue growth in terms of iPhone sales in India in the recent quarters. Apple's sales in India are reported to have jumped to nearly $6 billion in FY23 from $4 billion in FY22. In February, Cook had stated during the company's earnings conference call that India is a "hugely exciting market" for the Cupertino tech giant, and the iPhone maker is putting a lot of emphasis on the world's second-largest mobile phone market. Apple also witnessed "record levels" of people switching to iPhone in the country and they are taking several measures to increase the iPhone adoption in the country by making it more affordable through various financing options and trade-ins, he said. Read: Apples first India store 'Apple BKC' will be one of its most sustainable in the world Apple is currently the leader in India's premium smartphone market (above Rs 30,000) and the country's smartphone market in terms of shipment value in Q4 2022, according to the market research firm Counterpoint Research. It clocked record shipments of over 6.5 million in 2022, registering a 16% growth YoY, the firm noted. That said, the company's overall market share in the country's smartphone market is still modest, at an estimated 5 percent. Delhi and Mumbai are two of Apple's largest cities, accounting for about 11 percent and 10 percent of iPhone sales in India, respectively, as per Counterpoint Research's city level tracker. Bengaluru is the third-largest market with 6 percent. In the making for years Apple's plan to open retail stores in India has been in the works for years. Following the government's relaxation of FDI norms in single brand retail in 2019, Apple stated that they "look forward to welcoming customers to its first company-owned retail stores." The company had planned to open its first retail store in India in 2021, but the Covid-19 pandemic forced a delay. These stores are expected to help Apple gain a stronger foothold in the country, at a time when Indian customers are buying more premium products across various product categories. Read: Apple's first India retail store launch comes amid a booming premium market Apple's differentiated experience through its own stores will attract premium consumers, which will likely boost the company's sales in the country, Navkendar Singh, associate vice president at IDC India earlier told Moneycontrol. "The premium Indian consumer is maturing and spending more, which makes India the next big growth market in the next decade for Apple  across product and service categories," he said. The launch will also help Apple get a tighter control over user experience, which will further strengthen its brand image and relationship with customers in the company's product and services ecosystem, Tarun Pathak, research director at Counterpoint Research also told Moneycontrol. Moneycontrol enters Apple's BKC store. Here are inside shots of the store as it opens for the public. Watch! https://t.co/KYDkm17L3P#Apple #AppleBKC #AppleBKCStore #Mumbai #TimCook pic.twitter.com/Ab7ilabXKD  Moneycontrol (@moneycontrolcom) April 18, 2023 Apple's Make in India push These developments come at a time when Apple is betting on India to become a key global manufacturing hub as the company looks to diversify its manufacturing capabilities beyond China amid rising US-China tensions, thanks in part to incentives provided by the government through its production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme. The company currently manufactures iPhones in India, including the latest iPhone 14, through contract manufacturers such as Foxconn, Wistron, and Pegatron, with plans to expand into other products such as its wireless headphones AirPods. Apple has exported about $5 billion-$5.5 billion worth of iPhones from India in FY23, accounting for nearly half of the country's mobile phone exports, according to industry estimates. The Cupertino tech giant captured 25 percent of 'Made in India' smartphone shipments in terms of value in 2022, as compared to 12 percent in 2021, as per Counterpoint Research. The company's Made in India shipments grew by 65 percent year-on-year (YoY) by volume and 162 percent YoY by value in 2022, it said. Foxconn and Wistron were the fastest-growing manufacturers among the top 10 in Q4 2022, fuelled by increasing exports from Apple, the report added. Apple's work with Indian suppliers of all sizes supports hundreds of thousands of jobs across the country, the company stated in April 18. In January 2023, India's Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said that Apple already has about "5-7 percent of its global manufacturing in India and is targeting to go up to 25% of global manufacturing from India with the most recent models of the iPhone being launched in India."
About 200 Apple fans hoping to be among the lucky few to enter the tech giant's first retail store in India gathered from early on Tuesday outside the shop in the commercial capital of Mumbai. People came from different parts of India to catch a glimpse of Chief Executive Tim Cook, who is set to inaugurate the 28,000-sq-foot (2,600-sq-m) store later in the day, and open it to the public. "The vibe here is just different," said 23-year old Aan Shah, who travelled from the western industrial city of Ahmedabad to attend the launch. "It's not like buying from some normal store. There's just no comparison. It's so exciting." His love for Apple has earlier taken him to store openings in New York and Boston, where he once got a chance to meet Cook. Apple has previously faced hurdles in opening physical retail stores in the South Asian nation, but its products have been available on e-commerce websites, while its online store opened in 2020. The new store, located in the premier Reliance-owned Jio World Drive mall, underscores Apple's growing ambitions for India, where, despite a market share of just 3%, it has been expanding iPhone assembly via contract manufacturers, and also boosting its exports. The store was opened for bloggers and tech analysts at a private event on Monday, while many Indian film and television celebrities were seen meeting Cook that night. A second store in Delhi, the capital, is set to open on Thursday. As Apple pushes to make India a bigger manufacturing base, some of its products, including iPhones, are being assembled in the country by Taiwanese contract electronics manufacturers Foxconn and Wistron Corp. It also plans to assemble iPads and AirPods in India.
Jordan Ahli Bank has launched its new artificial intelligence (AI) system ahliGPT, becoming the first bank in the Middle East to embrace AI in its customer service.

The pioneering step reflects the bank's vision to integrate AI into its operations and improve the quality of services.

ahliGPT provides customers the opportunity to get quick and accurate answers to their queries as well as problems related to banking and financial services, saving time and effort for both bank clients and employees.

Enhancing services

The move is part of Jordan Ahli Banks continued efforts to enhance its operations leveraging new technologies, as it seeks to improve the experience of its customers by adopting the latest innovations.

Additionally, the bank is working to improve the privacy of customers by implementing the latest security standards in the use of AI technologies that will guarantee the protection of customer information and transaction details.

Jordan Ahli Bank CEO and General Manager Dr Ahmad Al-Hussein expressed his optimism in the future of AI in the banking industry, stating: "The future of banking lies in harnessing the power of technology to better serve our clients."

Leading bank

Jordan Ahli Bank's adoption of AI technologies in customer service is an important step towards strengthening its position as a leading bank in the region and confirms its commitment to providing modern banking innovations and solutions that exceed customer expectations. -- TradeArabia News Service
University of Wisconsin System chancellors are being told to audit the viability of their branch campuses as headcounts at most of the Systems two-year schools continue to rapidly decline.

System President Jay Rothman said everything is on the table, from adding bachelors degree or continuing education programs to consolidating campuses.

The directive comes as UW-Platteville at Richland, which has seen the steepest enrollment declines of all branch campuses, is about to end its degree-fulfilling classes, and Washington County considers a community college pilot program with the Wisconsin Technical College System. The audits are a part of a wider strategic plan Rothman initiated shortly after he joined the System in June, he said.

Rothman said Monday he had asked the seven System chancellors with branch campuses to determine what the financial and operating challenges are at each campus and what can be done to stabilize them.

He stressed there is not a one-size-fits-all solution that applies to each branch. UW-Green Bay, for example, is exploring a one university, four campuses model in which each of the branch sites is considered equivalent to the main campus.

After discussing with chancellors what has and hasnt been working, Rothman said, audits were the logical next step.

Thats my ask to them, to see what we can do to ensure the long-term viability of those institutions, Rothman said. Certainly, the enrollment has declined, and we just have to be responsible stewards of taxpayers money as we look at that.

As part of the audits, chancellors will be asked to establish goals, an action outline, expected results and a timeline to attain them.

All branch campuses have experienced steep declines from their peak enrollments, although some are experiencing a rebound. Enrollment declines at the Systems two-year campuses prompted the Board of Regents to merge all of its two-year campuses with the Systems four-year universities at the start of the 2018 school year.

A previous consolidation in 2015 further consolidated the branch campuses, then called UW Colleges, into regional groups that shared administrative, marketing and recruiting staff. That consolidation eliminated 83 administrative jobs between the 13 two-year colleges and was prompted by a $250 million cut to the Systems budget in 2015.

Some of the branch campuses seem to be bucking their declining enrollment trends. The Manitowoc campus started seeing enrollment growth in 2020 after a decade of declines; campuses at Sheboygan and Marinette saw their enrollment tick up slightly in recent years after experiencing similar fall-offs.

UW-Green Bay, which oversees those three branches, credits adding localized bachelors degree programs for each county and dual enrollment programs that allow high school students to earn associate degrees.

Others have similar plans, with UW-Platteville adding hospitality and business management degrees at the Baraboo-Sauk County branch campus, which sits just south of the economic engine that is the Wisconsin Dells, and UW-Stevens Point offering a masters in business administration at its Wausau branch.

Rothman said he wants to see a holistic approach in the audits, with a focus on improving the educational experience while using scarce resources effectively and meeting community needs.

Our goal is to find a path forward to viability, Rothman said. As patterns change, we want our branch campuses and our universities to continue to evolve ... (lets) put all of the options on the table and lets figure out the best pathway forward.
Bangladeshs garment factories, a key source of foreign exchange for the nation, face the heightened risk of fires as summer temperatures soar, an industry lobby group warned. The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association, the main industry body in the worlds No 2 exporter after China, issued 11 instructions to its 4,500 members over the weekend. These include powering off all machinery at night, including lights, fans, electric irons and boilers. Factories were asked to keep the entry and exits free for movement and ensure all gates and passages are open during working hours. As garment factories use machinery and electric tools, there are risks of fire. Cautionary measures can avert disasters and save lives, the associations president Faruque Hassan said in a letter. The body also called for factory owners to establish security cameras on the premises to prevent any act of sabotage. The warning came after fires engulfed thousands of shops at two markets in the capital Dhaka over the last two weeks. A severe heat wave, with temperatures touching 42 degrees Celsius, is sweeping parts of Bangladesh and is likely to continue, according to the Met Office. Similar higher-than-usual summer temperatures are also forecast across many parts of neighboring India through June. The garment industry contributes about 10 percent to Bangladeshs GDP and employs more than 4 million people. It also accounts for more than 80 percent of the countrys exports and supplies products to global chains, including H&M, Adidas, Wal-Mart Inc and GAP. The warning comes as high commodity costs, stoked by Russias war in Ukraine, has increased Bangladeshs import bill and widened its trade deficit. This in turn has weakened the local currency and hurt its foreign exchange reserves. The market fires prompted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to order an investigation into whether the main opposition group, Bangladesh Nationalist Party, and its Islamist ally were behind the incidents. The BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir blamed the government and alleged it was using the incidents to divert peoples attention from Bangladeshs real problems, such as the soaring cost of living.
Analysts say that a proposed extension of Irans subsea natural gas pipeline that it is constructing to Oman further to India is fraught with risks, both economic and from the security viewpoint, apart from other concerns. First, cross-country pipelines involve huge costs, and past attempts have seen limited success. Second, analysts said, Indias dependence on Iran for energy needs will attract security and geopolitical concerns including economic sanctions imposed by other countries. Irans deputy foreign minister Mahdi Safari, on a visit to Mumbai last week, said the Islamic Republic may consider extending its pipeline to the Gujarat coast. To be sure, this is not the first time such a plan has been mooted but the plan also hinges on Indias interest, said a person aware of the developments. Also Read: Iran in talks for $4.5 bn undersea gas pipeline to Gujarat It is an interesting development but (I am) not sure if it will culminate in anything material, said Vivekanand Subbaraman, an analyst with Ambit Capital. His scepticism is not unfounded, since such projects have been proposed before. According to the last available information on public record, the ministry for petroleum and natural gas in a reply to a query raised in the Rajya Sabha in March 2021 said, India was involved in discussions in the past on the India-Iran pipeline project. However, work has not started on the pipeline yet nor has any plan been finalised. Iran was ranked as having the third-largest oil and second-largest natural gas reserves in 2021, according to data from the US Energy Information Administration. Between April 2022 and January this year, India imported 16.99 million tonnes of liquefied natural gas, none of which came from Iran. Another analyst with a domestic brokerage firm called the plans good on paper. This a lot more expensive and has been talked about earlier. We need to see if it moves from media to implementation this time, said the analyst, who did not wish to be identified. In 2014, news reports estimated the cost of an India-Iran pipeline at around $4.5 billion. The India-Iran pipeline project is not an outlier. A decade after it was conceptualised, the fate of another ambitious undertaking, the $7.7-billion plan to connect India through the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India Gas Pipeline (TAPI), also remains unclear. The TAPI pipeline was to export up to 33 billion cubic metres of natural gas a year from Turkmenistan to Afghanistan, Pakistan and India over 30 years, according to a 2014 Asian Development Bank news release. The latest plan for an Iran-India pipeline is not without worries. There are security concerns, and other issues like sanctions, especially if we are talking about Iranian gas, said the second analyst quoted earlier. Analysts also pointed to Indias current huge sourcing of energy supplies from Russia, which is also facing US and EU sanctions. Russia has emerged as among the top suppliers of crude oil to India since the Ukraine-Russia war broke out.
Goldman Sachs has initiated the process for exploring the sale of its fintech unit GreenSky, suggested David Solomon, Chief Executive Officer of the investment banking giant. GreenSky's performance remains high, Solomon reportedly said, but added that Goldman does not see itself as best suited to lead the company in the long run. "We believe GreenSky is a good business and is performing well with first quarter originations in our core home improvement loans, up over 25 percent year-over-year and a weighted FICO on total originations of over 780," Reuters quoted him as saying. "Given our current strategic priorities, however, we may not be the best long-term holder of this business," Solomon added. An official statement from Goldman Sachs was not issued by the time the preliminary reports emerged. Also Read | Why Goldman Sachs is far, far behind Morgan Stanley GreenSky is part of Goldmans new Platform Solutions unit, which also houses its credit-card partnerships like Goldmans Apple Card alongside its transaction banking business. Goldman had agreed to buy GreenSky for about $2.24 billion in late 2021, adding the company to its consumer-banking platform known at that time as Marcus. But Goldmans once-ambitious foray into Main Street has been whittled down after racking up losses faster than it anticipated. The divisions $1 billion pretax loss reported for 2021 was mostly tied to the Apple Card while about $2 billion in 2022 mainly stemmed from the Apple card and instalment-lending platform GreenSky, Bloomberg reported in January. With Reuters & Bloomberg inputs
Services provided by employees of a company's branch office to its head office and vice versa located in different states would be liable to 18 per cent GST, the AAR has said. Profisolutions Pvt Ltd, which has its registered office in Karnataka and a branch office in Chennai in Tamil Nadu, had approach the Authority for Advance Ruling (AAR) seeking a ruling on whether the services provided to head office will attract GST. The branch office of the applicant is providing support services like engineering, design and accounting to its head office at Bangalore in Karnataka. The applicant contends that employees are appointed and working for the company as a whole and not employed for head office or branch office specifically. Under Goods and Services Tax (GST), businesses need to obtain registration in every state in which they have a physical presence. The AAR observed that under GST law supply of services between two registrations of the same person in same state or in different states attract tax. "Services, including services of common employees of a person, provided by branch office to head office and vice versa, each having separate GST registration, will attract GST liability," the AAR said. AMRG & Associates Senior Partner Rajat Mohan said this AAR ruling upheld the levy of 18 per cent tax for such flow of services between two GST-registered entities under the same PAN. "However, there is no guidance on the methodology of computing and valuing the same without increasing tax risk on the business," he said. KPMG in India Partner and National Head, Indirect Tax, Abhishek Jain said this ruling could open another Pandora's box on the existing debate of there being a supply of service from the head office to its branch offices and related valuation. "The ruling upholds identification of common human resources and there being a provision of intra entity services accordingly by these common resources. Such identification itself would be a challenge for companies and could open a new series of litigation on services from branch offices to head office as well," Jain added. Mohan said cross-charging of salary under GST is a complex topic that requires careful consideration and compliance with the relevant regulations. "The cross-charging of salary can have massive tax implications for tax-exempt sectors like healthcare, education, agriculture, financial services and charitable activities," Mohan adde
India is preparing an overhaul of its direct tax laws to replace a byzantine matrix of rules and help Prime Minister Narendra Modi reduce widening income inequality if he returns to power next year, according to people with knowledge of the matter. At the heart of the rework is potential increases in capital gains taxes for top income earners, the people said, asking not to be identified as the details are private. For instance, while India levies a tax of as much as 30% on income, it taxes gains on certain asset classes such as equity funds and stocks at a lower rate. This isnt progressive and goes against the principle of equity, said one of the people. A panel may be appointed to build on proposals submitted to the Finance Ministry in 2019 with an eye to implement in 2024, though no final decisions have been made, the people added. A Finance Ministry spokesman didnt immediately respond to an email seeking comments. The benchmark stock index fell as much as 0.6% in Mumbai after the report. Indias reliance on indirect taxes  levies on consumption  rather than direct taxes on capital is often cited by economists as the main culprit behind the countrys poor getting left behind even as the nation minted 70 new millionaires each day between 2018 and 2022. Oxfam International estimates the top 10% of Indias population holds 77% of national wealth and government data show about 6% pay income tax. Leaders around the world are trying to narrow income gaps, from China President Xi Jinpings common prosperity program to US President Joe Bidens proposal of higher taxes for the wealthiest. Modi, who came to power with the strongest mandate in three decades on a platform pledging dignity for the poor, has often been accused of policies that favor the rich. During his first term in office, Modi transformed India into a single unified market by replacing multiple indirect taxes with a goods and services tax in 2017. A new direct taxes law would complete his tax overhaul; boosting living standards across the population is key for him to market India as a consumer destination that global businesses should target. An overhaul of the six-decade-old income tax law was first proposed under Modis predecessor in 2009 but successive governments have failed to complete it. While India has tweaked some tax rates and exemptions for individuals and companies, it is still trying to address some other issues such as standardizing the tax rates on capital gains. The government tried to address this issue partially in the recent budget by taxing debt funds at the income tax rate. With a new direct taxes code, the government is also looking to replace Indias complicated tax system with a simpler law to draw in companies looking to shift their operations out of China amid growing tensions between Washington and Beijing. More importantly, it could help burnish Indias credentials as an investment destination after companies such as Vodafone Group Plc and Cairn Energy Plc challenged tax decisions in courts in the past.
India needs to resist efforts by some western ratings companies to push ESG norms on emerging markets even as Prime Minister Modis government is committed to zero out green house gas emissions by 2070, according to key economic adviser Sanjeev Sanyal. The issue is not so much about the need for some norms, but about who will be monitoring these targets, Sanjeev Sanyal, a member of PMs economic advisory council said in an interview. The existing credit rating ones already have serious biases and failures. Allowing the emergence of a new bunch of exclusively western agencies to monitor ESG targets is problematic. India has been championing the issues important to emerging economies as it hosts the Group of 20 nations this year. In the first meeting of finance ministers and central bank heads in February, New Delhi took up the cause of debt relief for poorer nations, reforms in multilateral institutions and climate financing. India needs to seek a review of the methodologies that international think tanks and global credit rating companies employ, Sanyal said. Global credit rating companies - S&P, Moodys and Fitch - didnt immediately respond to emails seeking comment. Separately, Concern Worldwide and Welthungerhilfe, two non-government organizations that released the Global Hunger Index 2022, didnt immediately respond to emails seeking comment. The Indian government had hit out at them, terming their report as misinformed after it ranked the South Asian nation 107 out of 121 countries in the hunger index. There have been concerns about how global rating agencies view India. Do you think there needs to be an overhaul of their systems? There are a tiny group of international think tanks and agencies that effectively de-construct other countries and pass judgments on them. Sometimes it is done on opinion-based issues like democracy and academic freedom, and sometimes they do it based supposedly on hard data. In both cases there are serious problems. Yet, these indices are taken reasonably seriously, and indirectly find their way into concrete things such as sovereign ratings. In the past, the thinking is to ignore them since they are biased. We cannot ignore them, in my view, because they have impact on real world decision-making. Therefore, we need to look into their methodology. Is there a plan to raise the issue in G-20 deliberations? The issue is not so much about the need for some norms, but about who will be monitoring these targets. The existing credit rating ones already have serious biases and failures. Allowing the emergence of a new bunch of exclusively western agencies to monitor ESG targets is problematic. Moreover, there is a danger that the norms and their application will be decided by a small clique of western agencies. This is a form of neo-colonialism. We need to push back against it, whether on G-20 or any other platform. Which focus areas could help India reach net zero by 2070 and reduce emissions intensity of its GDP by 45% by 2030? We want to certainly transition away from hydrocarbons. We must remember in Indias case we are not a country blessed with large amounts of fossil fuels, but we are blessed with sunshine. We are a technology capable country that can take advantage of various types of renewables, including nuclear power and solar. So, there is no conflict of interest for India in transitioning to other forms of energy production and storage. As for the 2070 net zero target, as fast as we can do it without compromising on energy security and stability of supply, we will do it.
For three consecutive months in the first quarter of CY 2023, domestic mutual funds sold shares in pharmaceutical maker Dr Reddys Laboratories. The Hyderabad-based company was among the top five large-cap companies in which Indian mutual funds reduced their holdings for three months in a row, according to a report by Nuvama Alternative & Quantitative Research. A report by Emkay Global Financial Services said domestic large-cap mutual funds sold Dr Reddys shares to the tune of Rs 256.46 crore in March alone. In March, the major fund houses that cut their holdings in Dr Reddys included Mirae MF by Rs 273 crore, followed by Aditya Birla Sun Life MF with Rs 201 crore and Franklin Templeton MFs with Rs 199 crore, said Nuvama. To be sure, it is common for mutual funds to move their holdings to areas where they anticipate higher growth. Even so, a fund manager who did not wish to be named speculated that the reduction in exposure to Dr Reddys may have been to invest in other companies of similar size such as Cipla or Sun Pharma that are expected to deliver better growth and returns. While Aditya Birla Sun Life MF and Mirae MF lowered their exposure to Dr Reddys in March, Sun Pharma remained among the top 10 holdings of these mutual funds. This shows a contrasting trend between the two pharmaceutical companies. On top of that, Cipla and Sun Pharma are also among the top picks of most brokerages, indicating that the industry is more optimistic about these pharma stocks compared to Dr Reddys. Ahead of the announcement of Q4 results, analysts expect Cipla to post strong growth because of strong sales in the domestic flu season and increased sales of Revlimid, a drug used to treat adults for multiple myeloma in the US. Sun Pharma is also expected to report double-digit revenue growth for the January-March quarter. Dr Reddy's may suffer market share loss in Revlimid after losing exclusivity. Buy calls on Dr Reddys Laboratories have decreased by two, while hold and sell calls have risen by one and two, respectively, over the quarter. Additionally, some market participants have also been sceptical about Dr Reddys acquisition of US-based Mayne Pharma. They had hoped the company would its presence in the domestic market, which is expected to be a key growth driver in the coming quarters. In terms of valuation, Cipla and Sun Pharma present cheaper options as their stocks are down nearly 14 percent and 1 percent in 2023 so far. Dr Reddy's has already gained around 16 percent, limiting its upside potential.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and National Payment Corporation of India (NPCI) are in early talks with Thailand, Sri Lanka and other countries to extend the reach of the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), two persons familiar with the development said. "RBI and NPCI are in talks with several countries for UPI arrangements like Thailand, Sri Lanka and mostly Southeast Asia," said one of the persons. "The RBI and Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) have reached out to many countries and the conversations are in a very initial stage.., said the second person. Both declined to be named citing the sensitive nature of the matter. At a post-monetary policy press conference on April 6, 2023, RBI governor Shaktikanta Das said RBI and NPCI were in discussion with various countries to reach arrangements similar to the one India has with Singapore to enhance the footprints of the UPI. In February, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Singapore counterpart Lee Hsien Loong launched cross-border linkages between the two countries using their Fast Payment Systems  UPI and Singapore's PayNow. The facility was launched through token transactions by Das and Monetary Authority of Singapore Managing Director Ravi Menon using the linkage. UPI is a system that powers multiple bank accounts into a single mobile application, merging several banking features, seamless fund routing and merchant payments In India, over 68 percent of digital payments are made through UPI, with 8.7 billion transactions in March 2023 alone and overall growth of 82 percent in FY 202 over the previous year. Finance Minister Nirmala Sithraman disclosed the figures in her keynote address at a seminar on India's Digital Public Infrastructure: Stacking Up the Benefits, organised by the International Monetary Fund in Washington. The people quoted above said such partnerships could support both Person-to-Person (P2P) and Person-to-Merchant (P2M) payments, eliminating the risk of sharing bank accounts. Linking UPI with other countries payment mechanisms will help users in both countries to make payments faster and lower the cost fund transfers. UPI will also help students studying overseas, migrant workers and travellers by allowing the transfer of funds at high speed and low cost.
Here is a collection of the most important stories this evening: SBI to consider $2 billion fundraising in FY24 State Bank of India (SBI) announced that it would issue senior unsecured notes to raise up to $2 billion for the next financial year. Members of the lender's board are scheduled to meet on April 18 to discuss and consider the same. More here India plans to appeal against WTO panel ruling on IT tariffs India is planning to appeal against a ruling from a panel at the World Trade Organization (WTO) that the Asian country violated global trading rules by imposing tariffs on some IT products, a government source said. More here March aviation data: Domestic air traffic grows 21.4% YoY; IndiGo increases market share Domestic air passenger traffic climbed by 21.4 percent year-on-year in March 2023, as per the data released by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on April 18. More here India eyes higher capital gains tax for rich to curb inequality India is preparing an overhaul of its direct tax laws to replace a byzantine matrix of rules and help Prime Minister Narendra Modi reduce widening income inequality if he returns to power next year, according to people with knowledge of the matter. More here Tata Steel in talks to raise up to $400 million in offshore green loan Tata Steel Ltd. is in talks to raise as much as $400 million, according to people familiar with the matter, in what could become the companys first green loan. More here Deal activity declines 35% to $9.7 billion in March 2023 quarter: Report Deal activities declined 35 percent to $9.7 billion across 332 transactions in the first quarter of 2023 due to an overall decline in deal activities as the fear of a global recession has gained more traction amid the continuing war on Ukraine, according to an industry report. More here Maharashtra wants income cap for affordable housing scheme to be raised from Rs 3 lakh to Rs 6 lakh The Maharashtra government has written to the central government to raise the annual income cap from Rs 3 lakh to Rs 6 lakh for the economically weaker section (EWS) under the Pradhan Mantri Aawas Yojana (PMAY) scheme. The state government is seeking this as a special case for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). More here
India's capital New Delhi has rejected Pernod Ricard's application to renew its liquor sale licence, citing ongoing investigations into the company - the latest blow to the French spirits giant in a critical growth market. The April 13 order from city authorities, seen by Reuters and not previously reported, said the decision was reached after reviewing Pernod's licence application along with "considerable documents" received from investigating agencies in India. It cited many of the agencies' allegations, including that Pernod illegally made profits by giving false price information and financially supported retailers in exchange for stocking more of its brands, violating rules. The 12-page order also stated, "Pernod Ricard India Private Limited and its employees had active involvement in the said criminal conspiracy." The maker of Chivas Regal and Absolut vodka, which has denied any wrongdoing, declined to comment on Tuesday. Pernod told a Delhi court in March it has been "suffering massive losses" as its brands have not been available in the city for six months as its licence had been delayed. A judge had given the city two weeks to decide on the matter. Pernod has the right to lodge an appeal with senior Delhi government officials. The company counts India as a key market where it has a 17% share and competes with Diageo (DGE.L). While the market share for New Delhi alone is not available, industry sources say that as an urban tourist hub, the city serves as a showcase market for premium brands, making it critical for any liquor company. Among other regulatory challenges in India, Pernod is also fighting a near $250 million tax demand for allegedly undervaluing imports. Pernod has operated for more than 20 years across India where licences to operate are granted by states or in this case, the national capital territory, individually and in most cases have to be renewed every year.
Lakeview Community Schools is expected to see the installation of its next superintendent in less than two months.

Lakeviews board of education announced late last week that Jason Cline accepted an offer to become the next superintendent.

Cline is currently the superintendent of USD-430 South Brown County School District in Horton, Kansas. He is slated to start in his new role at Lakeview on July 1.

Cline said he is looking forward to the new opportunity.

I am very excited to be part of the Lakeview family and looking forward to building relationships and talking to people and doing what's best for kids, Cline said.

The Columbus Telegram is planning on publishing a full story on Cline to introduce him to the community at a later date.

Aaron Plas has been serving as Lakeview superintendent since 2016. He announced earlier this year that he will be leaving the position to join Bennington Public Schools. Plas will start there with the 2023-2024 school year.

Throughout the past seven years Plas has been Lakeviews superintendent, the school district has seen a lot of growth, from building improvements such as the 2019 bond issue for improvements at Lakeview Junior-Senior High School and an addition at Shell Creek to moving to a 1-to-1 technology environment, the start of a preschool program and academic program changes.

We really love this place; its really special, Plas previously told the Telegram. Were always going to be huge fans of the Vikings.

The board of education had been working towards finding the next superintendent since March, having enlisted the help of the Nebraska Rural Community Schools Association in the search.

Lakeview School Board President Keith Runge said 12 candidates applied for the position, with four being interviewed.

It was good to have that many candidates that wanted to be here, Runge said. The four we interviewed were all good people and it wasn't an easy decision, but it was where we ended up. That's always a good thing; you want to have good people to choose from.

Importantly, Runge added, those 12 people specifically wanted to join Lakeview.

That kind of means a lot to the community and staff that we must be doing things the right way if people want to come here, he said.

School board members at the boards regular meeting in March had noted the need to find the right person to fill Plas shoes. The board could have chosen to immediately hire somebody or take on an interim superintendent and go through the hiring process again in the fall if the ideal candidate hadnt come along.

Runge said Cline had risen to the top during the superintendent search.

We think we're in a good place and we thought he'd carry on what we're doing and add some new ideas too. It'll be his program now, Runge said. He's been a superintendent for a while and seemed to really click (well) with the groups that interviewed him, the staff and the administration and the support staff. Everybody just had a good feeling about it.
Passenger vehicle exports from India rose 15 per cent in FY23 with Maruti Suzuki India leading the segment with dispatches of over 2.5 lakh units, as per the latest data by industry body SIAM. The total passenger vehicle (PV) exports stood at 6,62,891 units in the 2022-23 fiscal as compared to 5,77,875 units in 2021-22. Passenger car shipments saw a 10 per cent growth at 4,13,787 units, while utility vehicle exports rose 23 per cent at 2,47,493 units during the last fiscal, the data by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) showed. Exports of vans, however, declined to 1,611 units last fiscal, from 1,853 units in the 2021-22 fiscal year. Maruti Suzuki India (MSI) led the exports last fiscal in the passenger vehicle segment. It was followed by Hyundai Motor India and Kia India. MSI, the country's largest carmaker, exported 2,55,439 PVs last fiscal, an 8 per cent increase as compared to 2,35,670 units in the 2020-21 fiscal year. The carmaker exports to various markets, including Latin America, ASEAN, Africa, the Middle East and neighbouring regions. Hyundai Motor India's overseas dispatches stood at 1,53,019 units last fiscal, up 18 per cent from 1,29,260 units in 2021-22. Similarly, Kia India exported 85,756 units across global markets in the period under review as compared to 50,864 units in 2021-22. Nissan Motor India shipped 60,637 units; Renault India 34,956 units; Volkswagen India 27,137 units in FY23. Honda Cars India exported 22,710 units, while Mahindra & Mahindra chipped in with 10,622 units in the 2022-23 fiscal. Overall automobile exports from India last fiscal stood at 47,61,487 units, down 15 per cent from 56,17,359 units in 2021-22.

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The new tax regime may have been introduced as a simpler, less-cumbersome-paperwork alternative to tax-payers, but it is not completely devoid of tax relief. Financial year 2023-24 onwards, the new regime is set to be the default tax system. That is, the rates and rules under this system will be applicable unless you expressly choose the older regime, which offers various exemptions. The official tax calculator launched recently by the income tax department is a handy guide for individuals to choose the regime with lower tax liability. However, before making the final decision, you also need to be aware of the exemptions that you will be entitled to even under the new tax regime. Here are six such tax exemptions under the new regime (as also the older regime). Also read: How to use I-T departments official tax calculator to choose between old and new tax regimes Standard deduction of Rs 50,000 Introduced in Budget 2023 to make the new regime more appealing to taxpayers, this is the most well-known tax benefit offered under the system. It is offered by default; that is, you do not have to take any measures or show proof to claim this deduction. However, not all taxpayers are eligible for this benefit. As in the case of the older regime, it is restricted to salaried employees and pensioners. Businesspersons or self-employed professionals cannot avail of this tax break. Family pensioners (who receive pensions after the death of the retiree entitled to pensions) can also claim this deduction. Employers contribution to employees NPS This is among the lesser-known tax benefits, and available under both regimes. While other National Pension System-linked tax deductions  Rs 1.5 lakh under section 80C of up and Rs 50,000 under 80CCD (1B)  do not find a place in the new regimes scheme of things, this deduction is retained. An employers contribution to the National Pension System (NPS) up to 10 percent (14 percent of government employees) of an employees basic pay plus dearness allowance is allowed as a deduction under section 80CCD(2). Amount contributed by the employer is first added to the income under the head salary and then allowed as deduction under section 80CCD(2) to the extent of 10% of salary, says Kuldip Kumar, personal tax expert and former National Leader, Global Mobility Services, PwC India. However, the tax-free limit on benefits received from employers is capped at Rs 7.5 lakh a year. If the total benefits breach this cap, the excess amount will be treated as employees taxable perquisites. Those who land new jobs now should make it a point to negotiate hard to include this benefit in their cost-to-company (CTC) package. Existing employees, too, can renegotiate with their employers and HR to restructure their salaries so as to avail of this benefit from the new financial year, says Sudhir Kaushik, Co-founder and CEO, TaxSpanner.com, a tax consulting firm. Also read I Explained: How corporate NPS works and offers additional tax benefits Employers EPF contribution of up to 12 percent of basic salary Your employer contributes 12 percent of your basic salary to your employees provident fund (EPF) account. This amount, too, is exempt from tax as long as the aggregate retirement benefits that you receive from your employer do not cross the Rs 7.5-lakh limit in a year. Also read I EPFO members now eligible for higher pension: Should you opt for it? Tax exemption on life insurance maturity proceeds Besides gullible policyholders who fall for dubious sales pitches, investment-cum-insurance life policies are often preferred by high networth individuals, who see tax-free maturity proceeds as a huge plus. Again, this benefit is available under both the regimes. However, it comes with certain caveats, if you have bought policies that come bundled with an investment, such as a unit-linked insurance policy (Ulip) or an endowment plan. From financial year 2021-22, the government has introduced restrictions on maturity proceeds of Ulips. So, if you pay aggregate premiums of over Rs 2.5 lakh on policies purchased after February 1, 2021, the maturity proceeds will attract tax. Budget 2023 has extended similar restrictions to traditional non-Ulip policies, largely endowment plans. If the aggregate premiums of such policies bought post April 1, 2023 exceed Rs 5 lakh, the income earned at the end of the tenure will be subject to tax. In all cases, proceeds received by nominated family members on the policyholders death are not taxable. Also read: Beware! Insurance agents pushing high-premium policies before March 31 to escape tax Standard deduction on rental income If you own a property that you have rented out, you can claim a standard deduction of 30 percent against your let-out propertys annual value. Put simply, annual value is the gross annual value (actual rent or reasonable rent as per market rates) minus municipal taxes paid. PPF or Sukanya Samriddhi Yojna maturity proceeds You will not have to pay tax on maturity proceeds from investments made in the public provident fund (PPF) and Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana. However, under the new regime, investments made in these accounts will not be eligible for section 80C deductions up to Rs 1.5 lakh that the old regime provides.
The Indian real estate sector received $45 million private equity (PE) investments in the first quarter (Q1) of 2023, according to a report by Savills India, an international property consulting firm. The data indicates that commercial office assets remained the top performer in Q1 2023, capturing approximately 64 percent of the total investment. All the quarterly investments originated from foreign institutional investors (FIIs) and were focused on development of office assets in Pune, the report stated. The report further suggests that all investment activity came from foreign funds and was concentrated in the western region of India, particularly Mumbai and Pune. Mumbai saw investments in ready industrial and warehousing assets, whereas Pune experienced investments in office assets. According to the report, the real estate sector received $45 million PE investment in Q1 2023, compared to $1 bn in Q1 2022. Indias real estate sector received PE investments at $3.4 billion in 2021 and 2022, while in 2018, 2019 and 2020 the figures were $6 billion, $6.7 billion and $6.6 billion respectively, the report showed. It said that the investment activity has been subdued due to growing global recession concerns, rising capital costs and a mismatch in valuation expectations between sellers and investors. Furthermore, recent events in the global financial world, including the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) and the contagion spreading to other mid-market US banks, have contributed to the overall uncertainty in India's office leasing demand. Diwakar Rana, Managing Director, Capital Markets, Savills India, said that the dip in PE investment inflows into the Indian real estate sector in Q1 is understandable, given the prevailing geo-political and economic global challenges and uncertainties. The reduced global capital available for residential credit and development of office assets, which are mainstream real estate products in India, is another factor that will result in muted investment volumes. However, the demand for investing in core office, core retail, warehousing, data centres and life sciences is extremely strong. Indian real estate offers huge potential for strategic investments and significant returns with new investment formats aligned to current requirements, Rana said in a statement.
Twenty-one people have died in a fire at a Beijing hospital that forced the evacuation of dozens of patients, Chinese state media reported. Staff removed 71 patients after the fire broke out Tuesday in the inpatient department of Beijing Changfeng Hospital, state media including CGTN reported. They said the fire has been extinguished and rescue work has been completed. The cause of the fire is under investigation, the reports said.

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Romania looked set on Tuesday to follow three other countries in banning Ukrainian grain imports, a setback for Kyiv as it tries to unblock exports through eastern Europe and salvage a wartime deal on shipping grain from the Black Sea. Failure to resume exports into eastern European countries or secure an extension of the Black Sea grain deal would trap large amounts of grain in Ukraine, hitting its exports and causing further economic problems for Kyiv as it battles Russian troops. Talks between Kyiv and Warsaw went into a second day after European Union member states Poland, Hungary and Slovakia imposed import bans to protect their markets from an influx of cheaper supply following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. But Romania's ruling Social Democratic Party increased pressure on Kyiv by saying it would ask the coalition government to approve an emergency decree enforcing a temporary ban on Ukrainian grain imports though it wants transit to continue. "PSD will ask the governing coalition to make a political decision to enable  the government to issue the decree," said the party, which includes the agriculture minister in its ranks. Ukraine's agriculture minister is due to hold talks on Wednesday with Romania, whose Black Sea port of Constanta has processed some 12 millions of tonnes of Ukrainian grain since the war started. Large quantities of Ukrainian grain have been trapped by bottlenecks in eastern and central Europe as low global prices and demand mean grain cannot easily be sold on. The bottlenecks have reduced prices and hurt sales by local farmers, putting political pressure on governments in the region. Poland, whose ruling nationalist Law and Justice party faces an election this year and counts on rural areas for support, has gone further than others by stopping Ukrainian grain and food in transit, as well as banning imports. Polish Agriculture Minister Robert Telus said Warsaw was seeking a solution allowing transit through Europe. "We are talking with the EU as well as with Ukraine to find solutions. We want these products to go to Europe, but go deep into Europe," he said before the second day of talks in Warsaw. 'SHUTDOWN' RISK The EU has criticised Poland, Hungary and Slovakia for putting individual bans in place, and EU envoys are set to discuss the measures on Wednesday, a senior EU official said. Bulgaria has also been considering a ban. The Czech Republic has said it will not impose a ban on its own but wants an EU solution. A Ukrainian delegation led by Deputy Prime Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov was also holding talks in Turkey on Tuesday on the status of the Black Sea Grain Initiative, which is set to expire on May 18. The initiative, brokered by Turkey and the United Nations last July, was designed to alleviate global food shortages by allowing exports to resume from three ports that had been blockaded in Ukraine, which gets a large slice of its gross domestic product from grain and food sales. It is unclear whether it will be extended because Russia says a separate deal meant to ease its own agricultural and fertilizer exports has not been upheld. Kyiv said on Monday the Black Sea grain corridor was threatened by "shutdown" because Russia was blocking inspections of cargo ships. Russian news agency RIA said on Tuesday the inspections had restarted but a senior Ukrainian official told Reuters: "Nothing has been resolved." U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged Russia to resume its cooperation, saying in Tokyo that it was "breaking its promises to countries around the world that are dependent on grain that has not been able to get out of Ukraine over the last few days."
As Zomato-owned Blinkit grapples with strikes and store shutdowns in Delhi-NCR, its quick-commerce rivals such as Swiggy Instamart, Zepto, Dunzo and BigBasket saw their order volumes surge up to 40 percent and marketing costs drop by as much as Rs 1 crore in the last five days, according to industry insiders. This comes at a time when tech companies across the board, and especially in e-commerce, are hunkering down to improve their profitability amid a long funding winter. We are getting the orders and data of tens of thousands of their customers. Its giving us free marketing and we have saved as much as Rs 1 crore This is the amount we would have to spend to get these new users, said a senior executive of a quick-commerce player that has seen order volumes surge 30-40 percent week on week, asking not to be identified. Two other executives at different quick-commerce firms said they were seeing order volumes rise by 25 percent and 30 percent. However, they added that these new users wont have good retention on the platforms as consumers tend to shift back to their go-to app whenever things get back to normal unless Blinkit fails to resolve the issue this week. For example, we saw our food delivery orders almost double when one of our rivals saw a strike in Chennai recently. But it was back to normal when the strike ended, said one of the executives, requesting anonymity. The episode at Blinkit, and the quick-commerce space in general, is largely a repeat of what food delivery players like Zomato and Swiggy had experienced earlier. About five years ago, the payout to a food delivery partner was around Rs 90 but has now reduced to about Rs 57-60, analysts said. These kinds of strikes are common when businesses reach a certain scale and then they need to focus on profits, so the incentives start tapering off. Its fair to say that other quick-commerce companies will also follow suit and soon reduce incentives because even they need to show profits, said Swapnil Potdukhe, assistant vice president, JM Financial. At the same time, there are several people exiting the quick-commerce industry because of demand pressures, which has resulted in an oversupply of delivery partners and, hence, low payouts. Meanwhile, a Blinkit spokesperson on April 17 said that the strike is nearing an end and most dark stores are getting operational in the Delhi-NCR region. Unlike food delivery, in which a delivery executive may have to fetch orders from restaurants in different parts of a city, the quick-commerce model relies on a group of gig workers being attached to particular dark stores in certain neighbourhoods from where deliveries are made. Also read: Blinkit permanently shuts down some dark stores amid delivery workers' strike Around 2,500 delivery workers of Blinkit have been on a strike since last week in Gurugram, after the company reduced the fixed payouts per delivery from Rs 25 to Rs 15. More workers are striking against this move in Delhi and Noida. According to an industry executive, the hyperlocal delivery sector's modus operandi is to cut delivery fees paid to riders whenever the volume of orders rises in an area. The companies make a rough calculation such that a delivery worker gets to earn around Rs 15,000 per month in a top metro. This calculation is again based on the assumption that the gig worker is logged on for 10-12 hours per day for 26-27 days a month. "As the number of deliveries per worker per hour rises when the platforms' total orders in an area grow, the companies look to make their orders more profitable by cutting the payouts per order," the industry executive told Moneycontrol. Meanwhile, a source close to the developments said that Blinkit will roll out new rate cards eventually to all of the dark stores in each city it is present in. Multiple delivery workers said that Blinkit used to pay Rs 50 per order last year to its early batch of delivery workers and Rs 25 per order to those who joined a few months ago. On top of the per-order payouts, there also used to be fuel and delivery volume-based incentives, which could go up to Rs 1,400 per week in some cases. The protesting workers are also angry as these incentives have been gradually done away with. Initially, quick-commerce platforms like Blinkit were paying higher because they had to create a market and improve the customer experience, that was their focus. But now after they have reached a certain scale, most companies feel they dont need to incentivise the ecosystem so much anymore and hence reduce the payouts, an analyst said. According to BSE filings, Blinkit delivered 3.2 crore orders to earn Rs 301 crore of revenue in the December quarter, while suffering an adjusted EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation) loss of Rs 227 crore. The company, formerly known as Grofers, was acquired in a Rs 4,447-crore deal by food delivery company Zomato in June last year.
The opening of Apples flagship store in Mumbai on April 18 was nothing short of a festival  with thumping nashik dhols, dancing employees, and cheering fans who had waited long hours just for a glimpse of or selfie with Tim Cook, the tech giants CEO. Customers had swarmed in from Pune, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, and other cities, waiting with bated breath since the dawn of a rather hot and humid Tuesday outside the store at Jio World Drive mall in Mumbais Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC). Some had taken leave from work and hopped on flights to get here. Some had designed special T-shirts and brought legacy Apple products hoping to get them signed by Cook. Some even applied for jobs at the store. Nothing was off limits for these fans, at least 350 of whom had queued up on either side of the triangular stores entrance ahead of its opening at 11 am. Takuya Takedayashi, 38, had flown in from Bengaluru just to get early access to the store. Takedayashi, a Japanese national, has been working in India for six years and has been an Apple loyalist for 20. In Japan, almost 70 percent of the population uses an iPhone. I make it a point to visit the main Apple stores of all the countries I go to, he told Moneycontrol. Kushal Shah, 28, a chartered accountant and investment professional, even tried to get a job at the new store, but said that his application was rejected. Shah became an Apple loyalist when he started reading about its late Co-Founder and CEO Steve Jobs life and work. I started reading up about Steve Jobs and his work following his death in 2011. There was no looking back for me after that. I have been buying Apple products ever since and run `The Apple Blog, Shah told Moneycontrol. Gautam Sharma, 29, a designer from New Delhi, flew in the night before to attend the launch although the Delhi store is opening on April 20. I could not wait for it, after all this is the first store, said Sharma. These Apple aficionados are now hoping to finally get new products and models on the day of their release, along with the rest of the world. Users also expect to find better after-sales service post the launch of this store in the centrally-located business and recreational hub of Mumbai. Tim Cooks arrival Minutes before the doors opened, Cooks entry was marked with lively Nashik dhol beats matching traditional Maharashtrian tunes, much to the excitement of customers and the Apple staff. After seven years, this is Cooks second visit to India. Chants of B-K-C! B-K-C! filled the air as crowds joined the staff in cheering for Apple as Cook opened the doors and welcomed his customers. He took selfies, signed autographs, and chatted with star-struck fans as they came into the store. Cook, however, didnt speak or address the media. Post his visit, Cook wrote on Twitter, The energy, creativity, and passion in Mumbai is incredible! We are so excited to open Apple BKC  our first store in India. The energy, creativity, and passion in Mumbai is incredible! We are so excited to open Apple BKC  our first store in India. pic.twitter.com/talx2ZQEMl  Tim Cook (@tim_cook) April 18, 2023 Hemanthsai Konatham, an excited 20-year-old YouTuber from Pune, managed to get multiple pictures with the Apple chief. I am so excited, I cant believe this, I have a number of pictures with Tim Cook! he gushed. Konatham rode down on his two-wheeler overnight from Pune to reach the venue. Just like Konatham, some other Apple loyalists had also camped outside the store from the night before. Purav Mehta, a product manager from Mumbai, is now in the pictures and videos of every media company as he was the first customer in the queue to meet Cook and get his 10-year-old iPod signed. But the show stealer was Sajid, who showed up early in the queue with a 1984 Macintosh. A UI / UX designer by profession, his popularity on social media today was probably only second to Cook himself. I have used everything: desktops, laptops, the candy-coloured iMacs, the sleek IMacs, the G4, the G3, and so on. I have been using the entire range. It is a big moment for all Apple users in India, Sajid told Moneycontrol. The design The two-storied glass store opened to reveal Apples signature minimalistic design and striking display of products. The detailing of the interiors, handcrafted and sourced from different parts of the country, is striking. The store features a triangular, handcrafted timber ceiling that extends beyond the glass facade. There was a 14-metre-long, single-piece stainless steel staircase that connected the ground floor to the mezzanine floor of the store, which had the famous Genius Bar that provides technical support for its products and apps. Apple has said that the Mumbai store is going to be one of its most sustainable stores globally as itll be carbon neutral and work on 100 percent renewable energy. For aficionados, this was a once in a lifetime opportunity to witness their favourite tech brand in all its glory in their home country. I will tell my kids that I was there to witness the opening of the first Apple store in India," said 22-year-old Roshan Katwe, one of the hundreds in the crowds that had flocked to the store today.
The BJP on Tuesday demanded that the Bihar government provide monetary compensation to people who had developed health issues after drinking spurious liquor and release those thousands languishing in jail for violating the prohibition law of the state. The party's statement came a day after Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, making a U-turn on paying compensation to the victims of hooch tragedies in dry Bihar, announced ex gratia payment of Rs 4 lakh each to the next of kin of those who died after drinking spurious liquor since 2016 when the prohibition policy was launched. The toll in the current hooch tragedy mounted to 31 on Tuesday, with five more people dying after consuming spurious alcohol on the intervening night of Friday and Saturday in Motihari, police said. At least nine others are also battling for life in various private hospitals in the district. "It is only the poor who were arrested and convicted under the prohibition law, not the mafia. There is hardly any conviction of the mafia associated with liquor smuggling cases. There has been just one conviction, while over 25,000 people, mostly poor, are in jail," senior BJP leader Sushil Modi said. The chief minister should grant a general amnesty and withdraw the criminal cases, he said. "More than 3.61 lakh FIRs have been registered under the prohibition law since 2016, mostly for the consumption of liquor. These FIRs should be withdrawn. We believe that 500 people have so far died in the state in different hooch incidents since 2016. Compensation of Rs 4 lakh should be given to the family members of all those 500 people," Modi said. On the U-turn of the Nitish Kumar government over compensation to hooch victims, the former deputy chief minister said it happened because of the BJP which has been demanding compensation for the family members of hooch victims right from the beginning. Modi said that the chief minister must also look at the plight of others who did not die after drinking spurious alcohol but suffered various health issues such as loss of eyesight. He also recalled the observations of former Chief Justice of India NV Ramana who described the prohibition law as an example of "lack of foresight" while drafting the legislation. Meanwhile, the administration has served notices to seven officials of the prohibition department, seeking explanations from them in connection with the hooch incident in Motihari district. Station House Officers of Turkauliya, Harsiddhi, Sugauli, Raghunathpur and Paharpur in Motihari, where deaths of people after allegedly consuming illicit liquor were first reported on April 15, were suspended for dereliction of duty, an official said. Besides, disciplinary actions have already been taken against 11 more police personnel, including nine "chowkidars". Huge quantities of spurious liquor and other related chemicals have been seized during searches at more than 600 places in different parts of Motihari since April 15.
French spirits major Pernod Ricard suffered a major setback with the Delhi government rejecting its application for renewal of the sales licence because of the ongoing investigations against the company. Pernod Ricard India, which owns brands such as Royal Stag and Blenders Pride, in a statement, said that it will challenge through a due process the recent decision by the excise authorities to deny this operating licence. The excise department of the government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi had last week decided not to renew the sales licence of Pernod Ricard, news agency PTI reported. An application from Pernod Ricard was received in September 2022 and it was not accepted then. After this, the spirit seller went to the court, which directed the excise department to formally take a decision. That application has been now rejected. The decision was taken on the ground of ongoing investigations against the company in matters related to violation of the excise policy of the Delhi government, sources added. Pernod Ricard India has been pursuing its licence to operate in Delhi since the re-implementation of the former Excise Policy. It will continue to do so, and will challenge through a due process the recent decision by the excise authorities to deny Pernod Ricard India this operating licence, as it is keen to re-start supplies as soon as possible, said a Pernod Ricard India spokesperson. Also Read | Indian agency accuses Pernod Ricard of more policy violations The excise department has also rejected the licence of Indospirits and Brindco. India is one of the growth markets for Pernod Ricard. The company said, Pernod Ricards business in India is a strong success story in spite of this situation in New Delhi city, as evidenced by the recent business results. Pernod Ricard competes with the British multinational alcoholic beverage company Diageo, which owns United Spirits Ltd here, and some other domestic manufacturers. It is the worlds second-largest wine and spirits organisation and its portfolio comprises over 200 premium brands, including 100 Pipers, Chivas Regal, The Glenlivet, Absolut, Havana Club and Jacobs Creek. Pernod Ricard also owns Indian brands such as Blenders Pride and Royal Stag. Pernod Ricard India is alleged to have financially supported some of its Delhi retailers to stock more of its brands. For this, some officials from the liquor firm allegedly provided bank guarantees. Earlier, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) had arrested Pernod Ricard's executive Benoy Babu in November last year, in the now-scrapped Delhi excise policy-related money laundering case. The trial court had denied bail to Babu and other accused in the case. The bail matter is still pending before the Delhi High Court. Regarding Babu, the trial court had said the oral and documentary evidence suggested he was the brain behind the decision taken by the accused company, Pernod Ricard, for furnishing corporate guarantees of Rs 200 crore for the loans availed by other members of the cartel from HSBC Bank. This, the court said, was considered an investment to take control of the retail liquor business and to achieve the highest market share in the sale of liquor brands by the company. The money laundering case stems from a CBI FIR which was lodged in the matter after Delhi Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena recommended a CBI probe. The Delhi government implemented the excise policy on November 17, 2021, but scrapped it after the CBI probe was recommended amid allegations of corruption. The government went back to its old excise policy, which was operational before November 17, 2021, from September 1, 2022, in which private players in retail liquor sales were replaced by its four corporations. (With PTI inputs)
He faces sexual assault charges and considers himself to be the Supreme Pontiff of Hinduism (SPH). He claims that he can upend the laws of physics to control the sun, and that he can make cows speak in English. He also claims to have created an island of Hinduism in South America, named Kailasa. Now, amid attempts by an order of white nuns to legitimise Kailasa, the Indian government has distanced itself from the international embarrassment caused by Swami Nithyananda. While people largely believe that Nithyananda resides on his island-nation of Kailasa, sources told this reporter that he may actually be in the United States, expanding his cult there, and trying to set up a base in California. The Indian government has made it clear that New Delhi has nothing to do with Swami Nithyananda or his cult and asked Indian missions in the United States and South America to keep a watch on the cult leader. I have no comments to offer. This is not something that deserves a comment. There is no official statement. India has nothing to do with Nithyananda or his claim to create a Hindu nation, Arindam Bagchi, spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, told Moneycontrol in a brief interview. Sources within the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Home Affairs told this reporter that the Indian government has alerted its missions to deny any help to the white nuns who speak for this sexual deviant. The officials said it does not augur well for the Indian government to comment on a person considered worldwide as a bluffmaster. Whereabouts unclear Officials of the MEA say Nithyananda, born Arunachalam Rajasekaran in Tamil Nadu on January 1, 1978, is actually somewhere in the United States, and does not own any island near Ecuador. He is definitely in California. We had information that he had a huge office in San Jose. And then we were told he and his men were scouting for some space in Trinidad and Tobago in the Caribbean islands, one official told Moneycontrol. A senior official of the Ecuador Embassy in New Delhi told Moneycontrol that Ecuador has already told the Indian government that the controversial Hindu monk has not acquired any island close to the borders of Ecuador. We have nothing more to explain, he is not in our country and anywhere near us, the consular official said. As many as five cases of sexual harassment are pending in various courts of India against Nithyananda. Hoodwinking Newark The said nuns  described by Nithyananda as his Rudra Kanyas (devotees of Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities of Hinduism)  had managed to lobby with the governments of at least 30 towns and cities in the US for recognition of Kailasa. One of those, Newark, had fallen for the line and declared Kailasa a sister city for cultural ties. City officials have reportedly admitted to falling victim to a scam that led them to make Newark a Sister City with a fake Hindu nation. It all happened when Mayor Ras Baraka invited representatives of Kailasa to Newark City Hall for a cultural trade agreement and then discovered that Kailasa was not a real country. Following the incident, the Newark City Council reportedly rescinded the agreement, days after signing the Sister City agreement. One city council member called the oversight unacceptable and said it cannot happen any longer. Wooing the UN These white women have dedicated their life to Nithyananda and the cause of Kailasa. One of them calls herself the Permanent Representative to the UN for Kailasa, and recently petitioned the international body for recognition as a country. Some of Nithyanandas followers have reportedly said they were ready to die for him. But the magic is not working at the United Nations, nor is it creating any impact at some of the wings of the UN. The Kailasa website has uploaded the representations it makes to the UN from time to time. But, Luiz Fernando, an official of the UNHCRs Regional Bureau for the Americas, told Moneycontrol that his office does not have any information about Nithyananda. Nithyanandas office said the female followers had gone to Geneva to shed light on what they called centuries of ethnocide of Hindu women through false representations of Hinduism. We took this opportunity to be the voice for Hindu persecution [sic] and we touched briefly on the persecution of SPH (Nityananda) and Kailasa, said the press secretary of Kailasa. Nithyananda is a Hindu guru who has awarded himself the fancy title of supreme pontiff, a concept that does not exist in Hinduism. Nevertheless, his followers only refer to Nithyananda as the SPH, to legitimise the title. Back story In 2019, Nithyananda, then a guru on the make with a penchant for all things bling, ignored court summons and fled India. The godman claimed he and his followers had bought an island off Ecuador. But that was a lie. This was not all. In a brazen move, Nithyananda wanted to be the successor of Madurai Aadheenam Arunagirinathar. Madurai Adheenam is considered one of the oldest Saivite Adheenams (Hindu monasteries) and said to have been established more than a millennia ago. The followers of the monastic sect believe that it was rejuvenated by Thirugnana Sambandar, one of the Nayanmar trio (disciples of Lord Shiva). Interestingly, Nithyananda was removed as the junior pontiff on December 19 in 2012, by Arunagirinadhar himself. Subsequently, Nithyananda got embroiled in other cases in the courts. Realising the heat was getting too much to handle, in 2019, Nithyananda went to Nepal taking the Gorakhpur route and entered the Americas using a fake passport. Everywhere he went in the US, he met non-resident Indians (NRIs) and asked for cash to run Kailasa. Some opened their purses, many refused. He lived in great comfort, unlike an ascetic who sacrifices worldly pleasures and lives humbly. Those who saw him up close claimed that Swami Nithyananda carried all the cheap gimmicks of nightclub magicians. Many paid millions, many got wary. He sold this theory of vashikaran (hypnotism) and many fell for his great Hindu revivalist theory. Many realised he was a fraud and had no supernatural powers, said a source in New York. But his image is taking a solid beating these days, very few are buying his theory, says Barry Sahgal, a New York-based venture capitalist and investor. No one calls him a godman, there are no godmen in the world today. Worse, no self-styled godmen have powerful patrons, says Sahgal. But Nithyananda remains unperturbed. In a video meant for his devotees, the self-styled Guru says: I have smoked it all, seen death, and have lived through it. I am Param Shivam (Lord Shiva). No one can touch me, I know everything, and I have seen the whole universe. This reporter has seen the video and has a copy of it. Responding to Moneycontrol, Nithyanandas press secretary said in an email that the world needs to realise that the United States of Kailasa is an ancient enlightened Hindu civilisation nation. Kailasa was established much in the spirit of a country like the Sovereign Order of Malta, a borderless service oriented nation. The Vedas and the Agamas are the constitution of Kailasa. And Kailasa has more than 7 million e-passport applications. MoneyControl could not verify the claims made by officials of the United States of Kailasa. The press secretary further claimed that US courts have exonerated Nithyananda and fined those who filed cases (the victims) a million dollars, noting that they did not turn up in the courts. He added that Nithyananda did not run away from India. He was on bail and he travelled abroad. He is not a fugitive. The press secretary quoted a report by Geoffery Robertson, a top human rights advocate and Kings Counsel from the UK, saying: Nithyananda has remained abroad in order to seek asylum because he claims a well-founded fear of persecution. The press secretary further said that innumerable attempts had been made on the life of Nithyananda. For all these reasons he was moved to a safe place by his disciples and followers. Challenged by rationalists But there are others who have called Swami Nithyananda a fraud and called his bluff, among them some of Indias top rationalists. There are just a handful of such spiritual masters who can create miracles and you can hardly see them. They are far, far away from human settlements. So, those carrying this tag of godmen are people with some cult following. They are clever frauds, says Narandra Nayak of the Federation of Indian Rationalist Associations (FIRA). Nayak told MoneyControl that he had made several petitions to the Prime Ministers Office (PMO) in an effort to expose these self-styled godmen as frauds. Indians are mostly gullible. And then there are politicians and corporate captains. They are all modern, urban and Westernised and seek out gurus to get a sense of security. Nayak said politicians across the world have their favourite godmen and gurus because they need some magic to maintain certainty in their professions. Everyone thinks godmen like Nithyananda can create magic. Look at this outlandish claim of controlling the Sun, how bizarre can you get? Or like getting the cow to speak? Yet, he has loads of followers. Whatever he does, his cult will be surrounded with loads of fraudulent activities. No one will take him seriously, added Nayak. But Nithyananda is on a roll. He has issued e-passports to the virtual country online. He has drummed up 200,000 subscribers on his YouTube channel. He has also launched a Reserve Bank of Kailasa and said the Kailasian dollar will look like gold coins of the mediaeval age, weighing 11 grams each. He also says he will set up a Hindu Parliament. But these are just claims with no basis, as of now. The only truth of Nithyananda is that he and his followers have enough cash to run their show. And a few powerful friends, including a former CEO who once headed a top Indian IT company and is now deep into philanthropy. Speaking on condition of anonymity, the industry veteran said: Nithyananda was a victim of relentless attacks by evangelists. So, he had no other option but to escape. He is not a criminal; he is propagating Hinduism and that should be a matter of pride for India. And all monks talk about supernatural powers. You dont have to take them seriously. You actually follow their ideals, right? Nithyananda continues to have some powerful backers in India. That should give some relief to the controversial, self-styled Supreme Pontiff of Hindutva.
In a first for Columbus High School, four members of its Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) chapter attended a state leadership conference in Lincoln on the April 2-4 weekend.

Amanda Jaixen, FCCLA adviser at CHS, said that the trip was attended by three chapter officers. The purpose of the conference is to not only provide a networking opportunity, present awards and educate students on career and college opportunities, but teach them about their communities and how they can get more involved.

"Students get to learn all the different areas FCCLA has to offer, everything from food and nutrition, soft skills, interview skills, nobody competed in STAR events this year, but the kids got to do breakouts led by the state officer team," Jaixen said.

The group also participated in some facility tours and hands-on learning at said breakout sessions, as well as meet businesses and college in what Jaixen described as a "sort of career fair and college fair."

"Different business and colleges come and do that all day, they did some chores, half went to the food processing facility at the UNL (University of Nebraska-Lincoln) Innovation Campus, the other half went to Hudl (SPorts performance tracking service) and got to tour there which is cool," Jaixen said.

Jaixen went on to say that the conference adds a bigger perspective to the students' experience than they would get in their standard meetings and in fact teaches them what to take back to their chapters if they want them to thrive.

"It gets students to know the standards for the chapter and FCCLA as a whole, what they should do in meetings, things they can bring back to the school and community, things that can improve the school and community," Jaixen said. "More hands-on experience is so much better than sitting in class and trying to learn about it."

Makenzie Merrill, one of the four who attended, said her favorite part of the experience was meeting new people and a dance held at the conference. Her initial interest, she added, was getting more involved in classes.

"I joined FCCLA to get a better understanding of my FCS (family and consumer sciences) classes and to meet new people and get involved in school," Merrill said.

That, Jaixen said, was one of her hopes when she started the chapter. After student teaching at CHS last year, she said, she wanted to come back and use her FCCLA judging experience to help start a chapter and help students learn more from those FCS classes.

"I had a lot of college experience judging and going to the conferences myself and knew Columbus needed another organization where kids who enjoy my classes have a place they can go above and beyond the classroom," Jaixen said.
The family members of senior TMC leader Mukul Roy have claimed he is "untraceable" since late Monday evening. The former railway minister's son Subhragshu told PTI that his father was "untraceable" and "missing" since late Monday evening. "Till now I am unable to contact my father. He is untraceable," Subhragshu, a TMC leader, said. Roy's close aides said he was scheduled to fly to Delhi Monday evening. "As of now we know that he was scheduled to land at Delhi Airport at around 9 PM. But he is not traceable," a close aide said. Roy, a former number two in the TMC, had joined BJP in 2017 following differences with the party leadership. He was made BJP national vice-president. Roy won the 2021 assembly polls on a BJP ticket and later returned to the TMC after the results were announced.

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The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on April 18 issued notices to the Director General of Police, Uttar Pradesh, and Commissioner of Police, Prayagraj, seeking reports based on the complaints against the killing of Atiq Ahmed and Ashraf by miscreants in police custody. The human rights body said: The National Human Rights Commission, India has taken cognisance of complaints alleging that two brothers Atiq Ahmed and Ashraf were killed by miscreants in police custody in Prayagraj district of Uttar Pradesh on April 16, 2023. The commission has sought reports from the Uttar Pradesh DGP and the CP of Prayagraj within four weeks. In the reports, the NHRC has sought details covering all aspects leading to death (including time, place, and reason for arrest/detention of the two, a copy of the complaint and FIR registered against the deceased, a copy of the arrest memo and inspection memo, and proof of whether information of arrest was provided to the family/relatives of the deceased. Also read: UP Police forms SIT to probe killing of Atiq Ahmad, brother Asraf The police have also been asked to furnish a copy of the seizure memo and recovery memo, a copy of the medical-legal certificate of the deceased, copies of all relevant GD extracts, the inquest report, a typed of the post-mortem report with the description of the injuries, a video cassette/CD of the post mortem examination, a site plan of the scene of the occurrence giving all the details, a chemical and histopathology examination of viscera (if applicable), and the final cause of death based on FSL report along with the magisterial enquiry report. Mafia-turned-politician Atiq Ahmed and his brother Ashraf Ahmed were shot dead late night on April 15 while being taken for a medical checkup in Prayagraj. Atiq Ahmad is the father of gangster-turned-politician Asad Ahmad, who was killed in an encounter by Uttar Pradesh Police in the Umesh Pal murder case. The last rites of Ahmad's son Asad, who was gunned down in a police encounter in Jhansi on April 13, were performed in Prayagraj just hours before the shooting. The firing took place inside Dhoomanganj Police Station in Prayagraj. The assailants -- Luvlesh Tiwari (22) of Banda, Mohit, alias Sunny, (23) of Hamirpur, and Arun Kumar Maurya (18) of Kasganj -- who had posed as media persons, were caught on the spot after shooting Atiq and his brother dead outside a hospital in the Shahganj area. The brothers were in handcuffs when they were killed in full view of camera crews. The macabre visuals were circulated widely on social media platforms and television channels.
The US aims to increase visa interview appointments for Indian students by 30 per cent this summer, US Consul General in Mumbai Mike Hankey said here on Tuesday. He said US consulates processed nearly 1.25 lakh visa applications of students in India. During his visit to Aurangabad, Hankey held meetings with members of industries. He also visited Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University and interacted with students. "Last year, we sent more than 1.25 lakh Indian students to the US, setting a new record for Indian students going to the US in a year and establishing India as the leading country of sending students. This year we are trying to increase that number (of students) further," he told PTI. "Our goal is to expand the number of interview appointments we offer for students by 30 per cent this summer. We hope to welcome more Indian students to the USA," Hankey added. During his interaction with students, the American envoy appealed to them to visit websites and find an appropriate curriculum for them. The US Consulate Mumbai tweeted that Hankey met with conservationist and industrialist Mukund Bhogale to learn about the historical legacy of the Marathwada region, efforts towards the preservation of its heritage, and areas of cooperation with the city's business community. He also interacted with an industrial delegation over supplying aluminium to support the global aerospace and defence supply chain.
Most countries and entities dealing with the Indian government since 2014 have realised by now that it is difficult to extract a favourable decision unless it is beneficial from Indias perspective. This is true even for bilateral seat entitlements for foreign airlines operating services to and from India. The policy pursued by the Narendra Modi government since 2014 has reflected a total change from the one followed by the UPA dispensation in the preceding decade. Foreign airlines, through their respective governments, then managed to not only extract disproportionate additional seat entitlements but also access to more and more Indian cities. This helped them funnel traffic from Indian cities to their respective hubs for onward transportation of passengers to various destinations in Europe and the US. Most carriers in the Gulf and South-East Asia can attribute a major part of the growth achieved by them to the strength of the Indian market. So much so that with the market share that Emirates commanded a few years ago, it came to be dubbed as Indias national carrier. Foreign Airlines Gain The Indian skies became dominated by carriers that did not even exist when JRD Tata gave India a head-start by commencing international services in 1948. Yet, policymakers were not spurred to take corrective action. The government of the day sought the easiest way out to meet the rising demand. It allowed rapid growth of capacity available without a care about who was providing or what consequences it could have on the Indian aviation industry in the long run. If the government did formulate any grandiose plans, it invariably failed due to shoddy implementation. The Modi government, on the contrary, has been restrictive, not entertaining requests recklessly because it wants Indian carriers to utilise the Indian part of bilateral agreements. This has naturally resulted in a growth of Indian carriers share of international travel from India in recent years, albeit not at an impressive pace. This achievement though confined to destinations in the countrys neighbourhood like the Gulf and South-East Asia, and rather than long-haul destinations, is due to both the encouragement given by the government and also increasing eligibility of Indian airlines to fly abroad. Only Akasa Air is waiting to fly abroad. That seat entitlements are not being increased periodically like in the previous decade has naturally peeved some of the foreign airlines. On the sidelines of an aviation event in Delhi recently, participating CEOs expressed their frustration in interaction with the media. Turkish Airlines CEO stated: There was nothing wrong in a country framing its own policy but too much protectionism discourages competition and hurts consumers. Likewise, Emirates CEO said, If you dont expand capacity, the losers will be the Indian citizens and carriers. While there is an element of truth in both statements but what went unsaid and was the real cause of such assertions was that the loss for these airlines due inability to grow on the strength of the burgeoning Indian market is much greater. Another aspect generally overlooked is that the Indian aviation industry is today significantly different from what it was more than a decade ago though one would have wished that there were more Indian carriers with plans to fly on the long haul sectors because most foreign airlines are seeking additional seats primarily to exploit the Indian market for sixth freedom traffic - flying passengers beyond their country. Change Of Policy The million-dollar question is will the Modi government relent as the market regains its full potential post-Covid? Very unlikely. Even if ensuring exploitation of India originating/bound traffic may not have been part of the governments Aatamnirbharta plan, the Centre does appear inclined to protect Air India, as is being alluded to by foreign airlines. The question is not whether there is anything wrong in doing so or whether the government feels obliged to as Air India was till recently a government-owned airline but because Air India along with other Indian carriers needs to aggressively spread their network and be the major beneficiary of Indias growth story. The mega order of 470 aircraft, including 70 long-haul aircraft, placed by Air India a few months ago will only help translate this desire. The government, while assessing demand-capacity balance, shouldnt thus fall prey to criticism, lobbying and media pressure but remain steadfast because the first right on India originating traffic should vest with Indian carriers. If foreign airlines were allowed a free run of the Indian skies in earlier years, it was because Indian carriers then lacked the ability to mount services at a pace at which the market was growing. To the critics of the policy, one can only aver that the potential for sustained growth of foreign airlines from the Indian market can only be incidental but ensuring the growth of Indian carriers will, and should, remain the prime responsibility of the government. When Indian carriers grow, employment opportunities for pilots, cabin crew, aircraft maintenance engineers and technicians are created for youth in India, which isnt the case when foreign airlines grow; and employment is indeed a priority area for the government. Achhe din for Indian aviation to grow and prosper exist provided Indian carriers seize the opportunity and expand their network, which should include long-haul sectors, thus far being exclusively served by Air India and Vistara amongst Indian carriers. Jitender Bhargava is former executive director of Air India & author of The Descent of Air India. Views are personal and do not represent the stand of this publication.
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India must bring down the overall cost of logistics to improve its ranking in the ease of doing business index. The movement of goods and services through this vast country is expensive and inefficient, with the overall logistics cost at about 14 percent of GDP being significantly higher than many other countries. Transporting goods by rail costs 45 percent less (on a per tonne, per km basis) compared to road, but three-fourths of all goods are sent across India by road because of the inefficiencies in rail transport. In this context, the initiative of the ministry of road transport and highways (MoRTH) to set up a network of 35 multi-modal logistics parks (MMLPs) is laudable. But after nearly six years of the stated intent, the actual implementation has been suboptimal - only five are at various stages of implementation. The MoRTH told Rajya Sabha on March 29 that 30 of the 35 MMLPs are still at various stages of feasibility studies. In another reply in Lok Sabha during the Budget Session, the ministry pointed out that state governments of Delhi, Gujarat, Punjab, Rajasthan, West Bengal, Haryana, Odisha, Kerala, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh and Goa were yet to identify land for MMLPs. In the list of 35 parks, four are slotted for Gujarat, three for Punjab and two for Orissa. Land Related Problems Land acquisition is a huge stumbling block in establishing large logistics parks. For one, the land parcel needed is usually quite large - the project in Indore needed more than 255 acres and the one in Chennai required nearly 184 acres. Finding a contiguous land parcel, on the outskirts of the intended city and then securing it at a reasonable price requires active participation from state governments. This may not happen in many instances. MMLPs are large complexes with rail and road connectivity, where goods coming in get seamlessly transferred to trains and other modes of transport in a hub-and-spoke model. So, freight from production zones gets shipped to the nearest logistics parks, where it is aggregated and shipped on a larger vehicle to a logistics park near the consumption zone. Then, the freight arriving at the destination logistics park is disaggregated and distributed to the consumption zones inside the city. Logistics parks, acting as freight aggregation and distribution hubs, enable freight movement (between hubs) on large trucks, thereby aiding in the reduction of freight transportation costs. These parks are designed to offer mechanised warehousing services - cold chains for storing perishables and racked warehousing facilities for packages and apparel. Value-added services such as customs clearance (which currently happens at sea ports for export consignments), warehousing management services and late-stage processing facilities are also envisaged for these MMLPs. Besides land, the multiplicity of government agencies involved in setting up MMLPs is another impediment. The involvement of multiple central ministries, state governments and various state departments makes the entire process of getting clearances cumbersome and time-consuming. Upfront Investment The response from private developers for building these parks has been lukewarm so far. In certain instances, just two bidders qualified. Private developers are key to developing a nationwide MMLP chain since the government has envisaged nearly 50 percent of the total investment from the private sector. The estimated total investment in 35 MMLPs has been pegged at about Rs 52,500 crore, of which private developers are expected to bring in around Rs 26,000 crore. The MMLPs are to be built on a design, build, finance, operate and transfer (DBFOT) mode, a format of public-private partnership. In the first phase of each project, which is to be completed within two years from the award of the concession, the private developer is mandated to bring in at least 30 percent of the promised investment and the MMLP should have begun commercial operations. Some potential bidders are uncomfortable with this condition that requires a large sum of money to be invested within two years. Also, as per the concession agreement designed for these parks, the concessionaire is required to pay a percentage of gross revenue from the third year to the government and also promise a minimum guaranteed revenue share. This has been a source of unhappiness for some developers. Of course, the condition that no new MMLP can be built by either the government or a private developer within a 50km radius of an existing project for 10 years provides some comfort and has been welcomed by the bidders. To make the projects more attractive and improve their viability for private developers, the government has already amended the concession agreement to award each project for 45 years instead of the earlier 30 years. The government would do well to tweak future concession agreements to succeed in enlisting robust private sector participation. Greater cooperation between the Centre and state government agencies in identifying and acquiring land would go a long way in accelerating the development of MMLPs. Sindhu Bhattacharya is a journalist based in Delhi who writes on a range of topics in business and economy. Views are personal, and do not represent the stand of this publication.
The function of the historian is neither to love the past nor to emancipate himself from the past, but to master and understand it as the key to the understanding of the present. EH Carr, What Is History The trouble with those behind the revision of the NCERT textbooks is that they care little about history. Their primary anxiety seems to be to cull out the facts embarrassing to the political establishment and gloss over them, if not amend, and if that does not do the job, simply delete them. The current exercise of effacing history includes key areas of our past. The intent is clear as daylight. It seeks to dismantle historical facts upon which the very foundation of the idea of India as a syncretic civilization stands. The attempt is to hide the efforts of the tallest leader of the Indian Independence movement who consistently and successfully secured Hindu Muslim unity. The RSS being banned after the Gandhi assassination has also been a source of embarrassment for long. Leaving Gaps In History But what is even more alarming is the erasure of protest movements in achieving social goals. Let us take the example of the temple entry movement. Or for that matter the current and ongoing movement against caste discrimination being practised in Indian Christianity and Indian Islam. By eradicating it from the textbooks, will the history or contemporary events be obliterated from the collective psyche of the depressed classes of this country? Or will this erasure itself form part of the collective memory of those classes? Will these classes thereby bear a grudge of denying them their own history? Nations cannot be built in this fashion. Nations are built on resolutions of conflicts, not by force but by reasoning, debates and accommodation. For this there has to be verifiable history and correct recording of contemporaneous facts. You cannot whitewash history or contemporary facts by merely altering textbooks. Besides, these revisions leave absurd gaps. If Mughals did not exist as one infers from the NCERT textbooks, how will you explain to children as to who Maharana Pratap fought against with so much valour and courage. If you delete Indias first Education Minister Maulana Azad, how will you explain to the future generations of his powerful negation of the two-nation theory and what is at stake for Indian Muslims in the secular state. The Historians Quest For the historian, facts and evidence are necessary, not beliefs or empty rhetoric. To illustrate, there has been the legend of the port of Muzhiris in Kerala of having conducted trade with the Mediterranean and Europe between 300 BC to almost 1000 AD. Historians did not conclude this on the basis of rumours or centuries of oral say so. Historians wanted concrete proof. This, despite the writings of none other than Pliny the Elder (25-79 AD). It is only after the excavations at Pattanam, Kodungallur, that historians are cautiously veering round to the concept. There are many who fail to realise that there is value in studying history and understanding it in its purest sense. As Michael Oakeshott put it, The past which a historian studies is not a dead past, but a past which in some sense is still living in the present. If Nazi Germany studied its history right, it would not have attempted the disastrous invasion of Soviet Russia which resulted in losing every square inch of conquered eastern Europe and ultimately leading to its own destruction. As the greatest modern historian Eric Hobsbawm in defence of history put it, what historians investigate is real and that there is a distinction between establishable fact and fiction. The sooner those behind the textbook revisions realise this, the better it is for India. For a counterview, visit: Far from erasure, the truth about the Mughals must be told Santosh Paul is Senior Advocate, Supreme Court of India. He is the author of Choosing Hammurabi: Debates on Judicial Appointments (LexisNexis), Appointing our Judges: Forging Independence and Accountability (LexisNexis) and The Maoist Movement in India: Perspectives and Counter Perspectives (Routledge). Views are personal and do not represent the stand of this publication.
In July 2008, Apple Inc opened its first retail store in China, marking the start of a meteoric rise in the country. Fifteen years later, Chief Executive Officer Tim Cook is offering the same blessing to India. Its obvious that the worlds most-valuable company should hang out its shingle in what may already be the globes most populous country, yet theres a cautionary tale not only from its time in China, but from its chief rival. When hundreds of people queued up for the opening of that first store in Beijing, the nation was barely a blip on Apples revenue radar. By the next financial year, ending September 2009, China plus Hong Kong combined brought in a mere $769 million in revenue, accounting for 1.8 percent of the global total. Within another two years, the figure jumped to $12 billion, or 11.5 percent. India is at that point now. Over the past year through March 31, Apples sales in the country climbed around 50 percent to almost $6 billion, Bloomberg News reported Monday, citing a person familiar with the matter. Thats an impressive jump given the global slump in gadget sales across all categories. Yet its still only 1.6 percent of company-wide revenue, and around 8 percent the scale of what the iPhone maker currently gets in Greater China. In opening two stores this week  the first in Mumbai followed by another in New Delhi  Cooks move could be seen as either driving business in an important market, or simply jumping on the bandwagon of growth that already exists. There certainly seems to be no downside given that hes also pushed suppliers such as Foxconn Technology Group, Wistron Corp and Pegatron Corp to ramp up output in the country. While local manufacturing avoids import taxes imposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modis government, exports are also playing an increasing role, with outbound sales of handsets climbing 67 percent in the 12 months to Dec 31 to more than $7.1 billion, according to Indias Department of Commerce. Chinese brand Xiaomi dominated the market in India in shipment units last year, followed by Samsung, Vivo, Realme and Oppo, according to Counterpoint Research. Apples not among the leaders until you consider share by value, where the iPhone occupies the premium end. By that metric, the US company is second behind its South Korean nemesis. More importantly, Apple  which has far fewer discrete models than other players  occupied the top three spots with various iterations of the iPhone 13. Its easy to see why the future may be bright for Apple. With its high-priced device appealing to Indias middle class and its enhanced spending power, the Cupertino-based company is building loyalty it can use to sell other products: Airpods and Apple Watch would pair nicely with that sleek new handset. And from there, lure them into a growing array of services which includes Apple Music, Apple TV+, iCloud and more. Samsung, as the prime rival in the Android camp, also makes devices locally and has done well to build a loyal fanbase. Theres a lot to navigate along the way, though. India is far behind China in key aspects important for manufacturing that include infrastructure, bureaucracy, attention to detail, and even a sense of urgency. If Apple is to rely on India for domestic supply, and demand rises quicker than output, then growth could be hit. Yet even as these issues get ironed out, a greater degree of political risk starts to emerge. Further revelations of poor worker conditions, or an uprising at a local factory, could sour Indias populace toward the American giant. Apple has already experienced this in China. In 2015, the region accounted for 25 percent of total sales, but then started to plummet. The next year, Beijing banned the iTunes and iBooks stores, and growing nationalism, combined with rising tensions with the US, saw the Apple brand lose some of its shine. Yet no company has suffered more at the hands of consumer backlash than Samsung Electronics Co. When Apples first China store opened, the coolest names in smartphones were Nokia, HTC, Motorola and Samsung. Not long after, the first three started to decline but Samsung stuck around. By 2013, Samsung had taken the lead with Huawei Technologies Co a rising challenger and Apple enjoying its niche atop the premium list. As with India recently, iPhones were not the leader by shipments but tended to dominate by value. For a while, Samsung enjoyed leadership in both value and shipments, a sign it was hitting just the right price points to garner broad appeal from Chinese consumers. But Huawei got stronger, Xiaomi moved from cheap to premium, and then in 2016 dozens of Samsung Note 7 handsets started to randomly catch fire across the planet. Within a few years much of the world forgave Samsung and started buying again, but not China. That the South Korean company didnt issue a local recall for this model exacerbated the antipathy among buyers. Before long Samsung just wasnt cool anymore. There once was a time when it was hard to fathom Nokia not being the hippest device around, and after that Samsung was the it brand. Apple is there now, in much of the world. For a growing class of Indian consumers, the iPhone is an aspirational product. Great design, consistently high product quality, and interoperability across Apple devices and services makes it a perennial favorite. Thats the kind of positive view Cook enjoys this week when he debuts Apples retail experience in India. Its a sentiment likely to last for many years. But its a journey that will prove to be bumpy and uncomfortable along the way. Tim Culpan is a technology columnist for Bloomberg Opinion. Based in Taipei, he writes about Asian and global businesses and trends. Views are personal, and do not represent the stand of this publication. Credit: Bloomberg
In a much-awaited development, the President has given her assent to the Competition (Amendment) Act, 2023, (henceforth, Amendments) that significantly recasts the Competition Act, 2002 (henceforth, Act). The Amendments will come into force when notified by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs. Here are some of the key revisions and what corporate India can expect. Deal Value Threshold: A Lot To Deal With? Moving forward, any deal valued above INR 2,000 crore is to be notified to the CCI if the target has substantial business operations in India. While the Amendments expand the merger control regime, it raises the following questions (likely to be addressed by the CCI in its regulations): * What would be the scope of substantial business operations? * Whether Deal Value Threshold (DVT) would apply to deals signed but not closed on the date of notification? * How should deal value be computed? * Whether supply agreements, ancillary arrangements would be considered in the scope of deal value? If these questions are not carefully addressed, given the relatively low DVT, it would open the floodgates to transactions with little or no impact on Indian markets. This could block CCIs valuable time and resources and increase the cost of compliance for companies. Shorter Timelines, But The Amendments have reduced the overall merger review timeline from 210 to 150 calendar days. More importantly, it cuts down the time granted to the CCI to form a preliminary view on a transaction from 30 working days to 30 calendar days. While the change is well-intended to speed up approvals, given the CCIs limited workforce and the increase in notifiable transactions on account of DVT, it is likely to result in: * The CCI requiring parties to mandatorily consult before filing * An increase in the number of information requests leading to clock stops * A potential increase in invalidations by the CCI and resultant delays. Transacting parties would now have to cautiously and speedily (more than usual) plan their merger filing to avoid delays or non-compliance (given the significant increase in the penalties for non-disclosure of information and misrepresentation etc.). Settlements And Commitments In a welcome step, the parties can now either settle (admit guilt and settle the matter with a relatively lower penalty) or voluntarily undertake certain commitments (cease certain practices, undertake corrective measures etc.) to resolve cases expeditiously. In cases pertaining to anti-competitive agreements between a supplier-customer and abuse of dominance, a commitment could be offered after the CCI passes its preliminary order but before issuance of the investigation report to the parties; whereas a settlement application could be filed any time after issuance of investigation report to the parties but before the CCI passes its final order. (For context, under the Act, the Director Generals (DG) office is tasked with the responsibility to investigate a matter and submit its report to the CCI.) These early redressal mechanisms, however, are not available to the parties as a matter of right. The CCI, while deciding an application, would assess the gravity and nature of the violation and consider the views of interested third parties and the DG. The CCIs decision is not appealable. While the commitment process does not result in admission of guilt, settlement does and the party settling would be exposed to potential compensation claims. Expanding The Scope Of Cartel The Amendments bring within the scope of cartels a kind of hub and spoke arrangement where a non-competing entity could be scrutinized by the CCI if it intends to participate or participates in furtherance of a horizontal agreement (agreement between competitors). The CCI, in the past, has considered the parties following directions of a cartel to be (equally) in violation and have imposed penalties. This change codifies the CCIs legal position and casts an obligation on any entity acting in consonance with a cartel to either distance itself or report the same to the CCI to escape/ minimize liability. Penalties: Consider A Middle Ground The CCI is now empowered to impose penalties on the global turnover of the parties. This revision increases the penalty exposure for global companies and appears to be inconsistent with the principle of relevant turnover as laid down by the Supreme Court (SC) in the Excel Corp case. It remains unclear whether the amendment overrules Excel Corp or will it be read harmoniously with the SC order to compute penalty based on the relevant global turnover of the infringing product. While taking a view on this, the CCI is expected to consider the principles of proportionality and nexus. Overall, the Amendments are a step in the right direction towards evolving a robust competition regulatory framework. Once notified, the CCI would be amped with more powers and is expected to step up its enforcement with greater zeal. This would mean corporate India will have to exercise greater caution and increase its compliance measures to avoid liability. Ram Kumar Poornachandran is a Senior Partner and Ruchi Khanna is an Associate, at AZB & Partners. Views are personal and do not represent the stand of the publication.
Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath, on April 18, assured investors the mafia are not a threat in the state after gangster brothers Atiq Ahmed and Ashraf were killed amid police presence, and Atiq's son Asad was killed in a police encounter, on April 15. The shootings were captured on video by the media. Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath said, "Before 2017, law and order in Uttar Pradesh was bad, and the state was infamous for riots. Earlier, there was a crisis for the identity of the state. Today, the state is becoming a crisis for them (criminals and mafias)." Fulfilling his promise, the UP chief minister has been cracking down on mafias across the state. His stern actions have already established him as Bulldozer Baba" or Demolition Man". It has now been learned that the Uttar Pradesh police have prepared a list of gangsters. However, CM Yogi is yet to stamp the list. When Atiq and his brother went to Colvin Hospital in Prayagraj for a medical test, they were shot and killed at point-blank range while being questioned by media persons who were present. Also Read | Who were Atiq Ahmed and Ashraf Ahmed, the men killed in Prayagraj on Saturday Both the brothers were in handcuffs when the incident took place. The incident took place on the day Atiq's son Asad was laid to rest in Prayagraj after being shot dead in an encounter in Jhansi on Thursday. While gangster-turned-politician Ashraf Ahmed claimed they couldn't conspire from jail, an undated audio of his brother has gone viral. A property dealer in Prayagraj was threatened by Atiq Ahmed, who was in Gujarat's Sabarmati jail. Atiq is heard threatening property dealer Zaid Khalid in the audio, which is nearly two and a half years old. Also heard is the mafia threatening the dealer that he can be kidnapped and brought to Deoria. A report on the audio was sent to the Gujarat jail by the then SSP, recommending Atiq Ahmed be banned from making phone calls. Zaid Khalid filed an FIR after he was reportedly abducted and beaten up by Atiq Ahmed's henchmen in November 2018. At the police station in Dhoomanganj, the case was filed on January 8, 2019. A month earlier, Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath assured investors at the MoU signing of Lucknow's textile park: "UP guarantees your security and investment. Today, there is no need to fear any name in any district."
A 24-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the death of a Kearney man whose body was found near Cunningham Lake in March.

Camron Rogers is suspected of tampering with evidence in the homicide of 56-year-old Patrick Weber, according to a press release from the Douglas County Sheriffs Office.

Rogers was taken into custody after the Sheriffs Office and the Bellevue Police Department carried out a search warrant on a residence in the 8200 block of South 48th Street, according to the release.

Webers body was found near 66th Street and Rainwood Road on March 20 after he was reported missing from Kearney on March 4, The World-Herald previously reported.

He hadnt communicated with family or returned to his job after he had reportedly traveled to Council Bluffs on Feb. 27. He checked into a hotel near Interstate 80 and the South Expressway, Council Bluffs police said on March 15. The police at the time were asking for information from the public.

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Tuesday will be a landmark day for the tech space in India as Apple open their first-ever store in Mumbai. The store, the launch of whose will be attended by CEO Tim Cook, will be located at the Bandra-Kurla Complex. As per a DNA report, the store will open at 11 am and the closing time for the store is likely to be 10 pm. On Monday, Cook met Tata Sons chairman N Chandrasekaran as well as Reliance chairman Mukesh Ambani. He is expected to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology Rajeev Chandrasekhar, at some point during his visit in India. In addition to meet several corporate dignitaries, Cook also had a taste of local flavour as he was seen having a Vada Pav with Bollywood actress Madhuri Dixit. After the store launch in Mumbai on Tuesday, Apple will open a second store in New Delhi on Thursday. The Apple Store launch in India is likely to bring to an end years of regulatory roadblocks and negotiations with the Indian government. The Apple retail store in India is inspired by the "Kaali Peeli" taxis popular art in Mumbai. The Apple store in Mumbai will offer different products and services such as iPads, Apple Watches, Apple TVs, Airpods, MacBooks, and iPhone 14. Also Read: Apple CEO Tim Cook in Mumbai: 'Cant wait to welcome customers to the new Apple BKC'
Sajid, an Apple loyalist who carried a Macintosh to the launch of the BKC store in Mumbai, finally got to meet Tim Cook after the CEO opened the gates of the outlet to inaugurate it. Photos showed Cook patting Sajid on the back as store employees cheered before posing for pictures. While waiting for the Apple BKC store to open, Sajid, a UX designer, told Moneycontrol that he was very happy with the launch of the store in India and there was no product equivalent to Apple which gave him as much joy while designing. "Desktops, laptops, iMacs, colour candy ones, the entire range from Apple I have been using that. It is a great pleasure to work on Apple products. There is no other product that gives you that joy when you are designing," he said. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Moneycontrol (@moneycontrolcom) Sajid added that opening of the first Apple-owned store in India is a big moment for users in the country. "I am a designer myself, I was a print designer now I am moved to UI/UX, I do digital design now. I am very happy and proud that Apple is opening a store here finally. It is a big moment for Apple users in India and we can look forward to coming to this store and exploring all the latest Apple products," he told Moneycontrol. The opening of the Apple store in Mumbai marks a significant expansion of the company's operations in the country which is becoming increasingly important for its future growth.
A Korean blogger, filming herself on a tour in Rajasthans Jodhpur, was harassed, followed and flashed at by a man, assumedly a local who has since been arrested. The tourist captured the whole incident on camera and shared it which was spotted by a journalist in the state who then shared it on Twitter. In the short clip, the woman can be seen walking down some steps in an area in the daytime but not many people were around. The accused was seen first smiling at her and eventually following her. She gives him space to go ahead of her and then he is seen standing at a spot waiting for the young woman to come down the stairs. He then exposes his genitals at her as he continues laughing. The woman, visibly horrified, starts shouting for help and running from the spot even as the man slowly follows her, still smiling. The video, now viral, caught the attention of Delhi Commission of Women chief Swati Maliwal who demanded strict action against the man and tagged Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot in her tweet. The following video has disturbing content. Viewers discretion is advised: Just came across this video of a Korean vlogger who posted a video of her being sexually harassed in Jodhpur. This is extremely disgusting and shameful. People like these are spoiling the image of our great country. Am writing to Shri @AshokGehlot51 to take strongest action! pic.twitter.com/8vfjblcizx  Swati Maliwal (@SwatiJaiHind) April 18, 2023 Just came across this video of a Korean vlogger who posted a video of her being sexually harassed in Jodhpur. This is extremely disgusting and shameful. People like these are spoiling the image of our great country. Am writing to Shri Ashok Gehlot to take strongest action! she wrote sharing the clip. The man was eventually arrested by Jodhpur Police. A woman foreign tourist blogger had put up a post on her social media that a man had sexually harassed her in Jodhpur. Taking cognizance of this information, we identified the man and arrested him, Dr Amrita Duhan, DCP, Jodhpur East told news agency ANI of the development in the case. Korean YouTuber harassed while filming in Mumbai, accused arrested Just a few months ago, another foreign blogger was harassed and followed by a few men in the streets of Mumbai. They were later arrested.
An IndiGo flyer has claimed that his Delhi to Ranchi flight scheduled to fly at 2 pm on Tuesday did not take off for 1.5 hours and all the while passengers were made to wait in stifling conditions with doors of the aircraft closed and without any air conditioning. Dr Deepak Kurup took to Twitter to ask for help from the IndiGo airlines' social media team. "Indigo flight no. 2093 terminal 2 Delhi airport. Delhi to Ranchi flight 2 pm was supposed to fly and doors closed no ventilation," he tweeted. "It's been 1 hour 25 minutes we are inside this. Take necessary action against those who have not taken care of this thing." Indigo flight no. 2093 , terminal 2 del airport. Del to ranchi flight 2pm was suppose to fly and doors closed no ventilation.  Dr.Deepak kurup (@deepak_kurup) April 18, 2023 Responding to the tweet, IndiGo airlines' social media team wrote, "Hi, we truly regret the discomfort, sir. Our air conditioning is powered by the plane's engine. As soon as the flight takes off, the AC kicks in. Further, we are highlighting this with our concerned team for review." Last week, an IndiGo flight from Mumbai to Bhubaneswar came under the scanner when a cockroach was found on a passenger's tray table. In a video shared on Twitter, the cockroach can be seen roaming around the table when the passenger is having his snack. The passenger expressed disappointment at the service given by the airline and said that it is "it is absolutely unhygienic and completely unacceptable." Read more: Indigo Airlines staffer checks flyers with metal detectors. Jyotiraditya Scindia reacts
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings and forecasts for various regions across the country, urging people to take precautions and stay safe during the anticipated heat wave. Temperatures have risen in states like Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab and East Uttar Pradesh and at many places over Haryana, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Madhya Maharashtra and Gujarat Region. Furthermore, multiple regions are expected to witness a rise in maximum temperatures by 2-3C over the next three days. The city of Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh recorded the highest temperature of 44.4C on April 17. IMD issues a 5-day heatwave warning With the heat wave conditions prevailing in isolated pockets over Gangetic West Bengal and Bihar the longest, i.e. four days, IMD has issued a warning for areas within of Odisha, Bihar, Punjab, Haryana & Chandigarh Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanams till April 19. "Orange alert has been issued regarding heatwave in many states, including West Bengal," says Naresh Kumar at IMD. Due to the heatwave conditions, educational institutions are to be shut down in West Bengal for a week. However, relief is expected due to a Western Disturbance in the coming days and the temperatures will drop slightly in several parts of the country, stated IMD. The IMD advises people to take necessary precautions to protect themselves from the potential dangers of heat waves, such as staying hydrated, avoiding direct sunlight during peak hours, and wearing loose and light-coloured clothing. Vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing health conditions should take extra care. Also read: How to prevent heat-related ailments during heatwave: 4 points
Murshidabad in West Bengal emerged as the hottest city in India on Monday as the country continues to comes to grips with the soaring heatwave. As per a IMD report, the city recorded a temperature of 43 degrees, more than any other city in India on Monday. Five cities were tied at the second position- Bankura in West Bengal, Delhi, Ahmedabad, Chandigarh, Vijayawada and Churu in Rajasthan- all of whom recorded 40 degrees on Monday. Gurgaon was just behind these five cities, recording a temperature of 39 degrees. The extreme heat conditions in India has had a severe impact on several parts of country. On Sunday, at least 13 people died from heatstroke in Navi Mumbai region of Maharashtra after attending an event that was attended by state Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, his deputy Devendra Fadnavis and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. "Firstly, the Indian government's definition of a heat wave is fixed, so as background temperatures increase, less and less strong anomalies are required to surpass the heat wave definition threshold. Secondly, it does appear that the weather patterns - high pressure over north India, leading to dry, sunny, clear conditions with weak wind - associated with these anomalies are also increasing in frequency," climate scientist Kieran Hunt told Bloomberg. Some of the other parts of India that is experiencing heat-wave like conditions are Bihar, Punjab, coastal Andhra Pradesh and Haryana. Also Read: How to prevent heat-related ailments during heatwave: 4 points
Ericsson AB, one of the worlds biggest providers of 5G networking equipment, said late Monday that its chief financial officer will step down at the end of the first quarter of 2024. Carl Mellander, who has worked for Ericsson for more than 25 years and has been a member of its executive team for almost seven, is moving on, according to a statement. The Swedish maker of mobile networks said it will begin recruiting a replacement. Mellander has spent years helping Chief Executive Officer Borje Ekholm turn around the Stockholm-based phone-equipment maker by ending unprofitable contracts, taking writedowns, seeking asset sales, cutting costs and scaling back expansions. Headwinds remain, with analysts expecting Ericssons first-quarter earnings report  due out on Tuesday  to show a weak start to the year. We have come to a mutual agreement that this is a good time for a change, as the turnaround phase is completed and the foundation for the next chapter of Ericssons strategy has been laid, Ekholm said in the statement.

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Alphabet's Google LLC on April 18 convinced a U.S. appeals court to cancel three anti-malware patents at the heart of a Texas jury's $20 million infringement verdict against the company. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit said that Alfonso Cioffi and Allen Rozman's patents were invalid because they contained inventions that were not included in an earlier version of the patent. Google spokesperson Jose Castaneda said the company appreciated the decision. Representatives for the inventors did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Cioffi and the late Rozman's daughters sued Google in East Texas federal court in 2013, alleging anti-malware functions in Google's Chrome web browser infringed their patents for technology that prevents malware from accessing critical files on a computer. A jury decided in 2017 that Google infringed the patents and awarded the plaintiffs $20 million plus ongoing royalties, which their attorney said at the time were expected to total about $7 million per year for the next nine years. But the Federal Circuit said Tuesday that all of the patents were invalid. The three patents were reissued from an earlier anti-malware patent, and federal law required the new patents to cover the same invention as the first, the unanimous three-judge panel concluded. The appeals court said the new patents outlined technology specific to web browsers that the first patent did not mention. The case is Cioffi v. Google LLC, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, No. 18-1049.
A landslide during a thunder and lightning storm on the main road through northwest Pakistan's Khyber Pass buried more than 20 trucks on Tuesday, killing at least two people, with dozens more feared trapped, officials said. "Twenty to twenty five containers are buried in the wreckage," Abdul Nasir Khan, deputy commissioner of the Khyber district, told Reuters. "The wreckage is quite extensive and our rescue operation is continuing with heavy machinery." He said two Afghan citizens had been killed, and authorities were trying to recover the bodies. Three other people had been taken to hospital and the number of casualties could rise, he added. The landslide took place in the early hours of Tuesday on the main route connecting Pakistan with land-locked Afghanistan, a major transit point for trade between the South Asian nations and into Central Asia. Photos shared by officials showed truck containers mostly buried in huge piles of rocks.

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More than 180 people have been killed and another 1,800 injured in three days of fighting between rival factions in Sudan, the United Nations special representative to the country said Monday. "It's a very fluid situation so it's very difficult to say where the balance is shifting to," Volker Perthes added of the violence between the army and paramilitary forces led by rival generals.

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NORTH PLATTE  The Lincoln County Sheriff's office has identified the body of the woman found dead on a Union Pacific Railroad locomotive at Bailey Yard.

Bernadette Lopez, 42, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was found by U.P. officials at 9:25 a.m. Sunday.

Preliminary results of the autopsy revealed Lopez died from hypothermia seven to 10 days prior to finding her.

The locomotive came into Bailey Yard from Cheyenne on April 8, which means she likely died in Wyoming.

The Lincoln County Sheriff's Office investigation is closed and the case will be turned over to the Cheyenne Police Department.
Nine states, including Michigan and Nebraska, have joined a U.S. Department of Justice lawsuit against Alphabet's Google which alleges the search and advertising company broke antitrust law in running its digital advertising business, the department said on Monday. The states joining the lawsuit were Arizona, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Washington and West Virginia, the department said. The government, which filed the ad tech lawsuit in January along with eight states, had argued that Google should be forced to sell its ad manager suite because it illegally abused its dominance of online advertising. Google has denied any wrongdoing and has asked Judge Leonie Brinkema in the Eastern District of Virginia to dismiss the lawsuit. The Justice Department's ad tech lawsuit followed a separate lawsuit filed in 2020, at the end of the Trump administration, that accused Google of violating antitrust law to maintain its dominance in search. That case goes to trial in September. The administration of President Joe Biden has sought to toughen antitrust enforcement. Alongside the Google lawsuit, it is also challenging multiple proposed mergers.

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US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke with two generals leading warring forces in Sudan and "underscored the urgency of reaching a ceasefire", a State Department spokesman said Tuesday. Blinken also confirmed a US diplomatic convoy had been fired upon on Monday, though those inside were unharmed, in what he called a "reckless" act. Blinken, in Japan for a meeting of G7 foreign ministers, held separate calls with the commanders of the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces paramilitary, spokesman Vedant Patel said. "The Secretary expressed his grave concern about the death and injury of so many Sudanese civilians due to the sustained, indiscriminate fighting," Patel said in a statement. Conflict between the army and paramilitaries in Sudan has killed about 200 people and wounded 1,800 since a weeks-long power struggle erupted into deadly violence on Saturday. The fighting is between the forces of two generals who seized power in a 2021 coup -- army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his deputy, Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who commands the powerful Rapid Support Forces. When he spoke to the two men, Blinken "stressed the responsibility of the two generals to ensure the safety and wellbeing of civilians, diplomatic personnel, and humanitarian workers", Patel said. A ceasefire would "permit the delivery of humanitarian assistance to those affected by the fighting, the reunification of Sudanese families, and allow the international community in Khartoum to make sure its presence is secure", he added. Blinken suggested that even a 24-hour ceasefire could serve as a good starting point for lowering tensions, and warned that the fighting was "recklessly endangering" civilians and officials. "I can confirm that yesterday we had an American diplomatic convoy that was fired on. All of our people are safe and unharmed," Blinken told reporters. "But this action was reckless, it was irresponsible and of course unsafe." On Monday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres again called on Sudan's warring parties to "immediately cease hostilities". Analysts say the fighting in the capital of the chronically unstable country is unprecedented and could be prolonged, despite regional and global calls for a ceasefire. Battles have taken place throughout the vast country and there are fears of regional spillover. The conflict has seen air strikes, artillery and heavy gunfire. The European Union's ambassador to Sudan was attacked in his home in the city on Monday, the bloc's top diplomat Josep Borrell said. A spokesperson told AFP the veteran diplomat was "OK" following the assault.
One of Australias fastest growing start-ups, MIlkrun, shuttered last week. It attracted a lot of investor attention. Big players were involved. But Milkruns fast growth came with high costs. The firm was losing $13 for every fulfilled order. So what does this tell us about investing and placing big bets? How much risk should you be willing to take on? Read on for more

One of Australias fastest growing start-ups shuttered last week.

Unable to raise fresh funding from venture capital (VC) firms gone miserly in 2023, ultra-fast grocery delivery service Milkrun decided to wind down while it still had cash to pay staff and suppliers.

Milkruns rise was one of the fastest and attracted a lot of investor attention.

In early 2022, the company closed one of the largest early-stage VC capital raises in Australias history, raising $75 million.

Big players were involved. Tiger Global Management, AirTree Ventures, Skip Capital, and Grok Ventures.

But that $75 million wasnt enough.

Milkruns fast growth came with high costs. The firm was losing $13 for every fulfilled order. Last Friday, it closed.

Founder Dany Milham told staff Milkrun suffered from deteriorating market conditions:

Since we announced our structural changes in February, economic and capital market conditions have continued to deteriorate, and while the business has continued to perform well, we feel strongly that this is the right decision in the current environment.

But what does Milkruns closure tell us about investing and placing big bets?

AirTrees Milkrun bet explained

Taking on the oligopoly of giant supermarkets like Coles and Woolworths is a steep challenge.

So why did Milkrun appeal to big VC firms? Werent the business risks clear?

Milkrun is to supermarkets what ghost or dark kitchens are to restaurants.

The company operated out of warehouses in select, dense inner suburbs of Melbourne and Sydney, stocking about 2,000 grocery products, which were delivered by a fleet of riders on e-bikes.

The warehouses permitted 1015-minute deliveries for customers in the relevant suburbs.

Milkrun didnt need to lease a huge store and recruit retail staff or bother with stocking fringe items.

It had appeal, going from zero to one million orders in 15 months.

In January last year, AirTrees partner Jackie Vullinghs wrote a blog post explaining the companys investment in Milkrun.

Vullinghs wrote that the grocery shopping experience is ripe for disruption:

Clearly, theres an opportunity for a new company to improve the grocery shopping experience for a convenience-led world, delivering groceries in minutes at supermarket prices. Grocery is a $122bn market in Australia, dominated by slow-moving incumbents with low NPS. The population is urbanised, wealthy, and willing to pay for on-demand food delivery (Melbourne & Sydney are in the top 5 cities globally for Deliveroo).

While admitting the grocery segment is traditionally a low margin category, AirTree thought an upstart like Milkrun could shake things up with improved unit economics in multiple areas:

 Personalisation: With an app that uses data effectively, you can personalise the shopping experience for each consumer, increasing average basket size and improving frequency and retention.

With an app that uses data effectively, you can personalise the shopping experience for each consumer, increasing average basket size and improving frequency and retention.  Range localisation: A smaller retail footprint in lower-cost areas, combined with a solid data infrastructure allowing a granular understanding of which products sell in which suburbs, enables lower leases, wastage and inventory costs.

A smaller retail footprint in lower-cost areas, combined with a solid data infrastructure allowing a granular understanding of which products sell in which suburbs, enables lower leases, wastage and inventory costs.  Vertical Integration: Having a direct to consumer relationship leads to constant customer feedback. With that feedback, you can create new products directly with producers and expand product margin. 

Having a direct to consumer relationship leads to constant customer feedback. With that feedback, you can create new products directly with producers and expand product margin. Range Expansion: Over time, you build up a dense network of micro fulfilment centres throughout cities, allowing you to expand into higher-margin products and potentially partner with other brands that want to deliver a delightful consumer experience.

Vullinghs said the extent of what Milkrun achieved up to that point in early 2022 gave AirTree a glimpse of the extraordinary things theyll make possible in the future.

That glimpsed future proved to be illusory. But the curdled Milkrun investment has not dented AirTrees confidence.

In correspondence obtained by the Australian Financial Review, AirTree told investors failure is an inevitable part of venture capital:

Failure is an inevitable part of VC. With great upside potential comes risk, and if we dont see some failures, were likely not adding enough risk into the portfolio for outliers to emerge and become fund returners. With that said, this wasnt the outcome we hoped for.

And herein lies the crux of the matter.

In investing, risk is everything. How to foresee it, how to manage it, how to come to grips with it, and how much to take on.

The risk you assume must be commensurate with the implied reward.

I dont think firms like Tiger Global and AirTree underestimated the risk of Milkruns failure. The risk was clear to see in the numerous closures of rival grocery delivery start-ups last year.

In March 2022, Quicko collapsed. In April, Send did. In July, Delivr folded. And in November, Voly and Deliveroo both shut down.

VC firms surely understood the risk. They just thought the potential reward was worth it.

Milkrun, risk, and investment returns

How much risk are you willing to take on?

Depends on the upside.

You will accept more risk on a stock you think can rise 10-fold than on a stock you think will trade sideways.

If you were presented with a bet where you had a 50% chance of losing $50 and 50% chance of winning $100, youd likely take the bet.

In the aggregate, you come out ahead as the expected value is positive: (0.5 x $100) + (0.5 x -$50) = $25.

The expected value may be positive but wont soothe you if you wager once.

Thats why investors, and especially VC firms, spread their bets.

Investment manager Emanuel Datt made this point when commenting on Milkruns closure:

Venture capitalists are paid by their investors to take risks on companies that are deemed to be too immature for publicly listed markets. This could be by backing entrepreneurial individuals or investing at more aggressive valuations than listed market comparables etc. Its important to judge an investors performance in aggregate overtime rather than focusing on individual losses within a portfolio. All investors, without exception, experience losses on individual positions.

What you could criticise VCs for is not necessarily the risk they accepted, but their assessment of the potential reward to warrant it.

Did investors inflate Milkruns upside?

In hindsight, one of the biggest hits to Milkruns long-term upside came from the very firms it sought to disrupt  the big supermarkets.

Seeing the positive response from Milkruns customers, Coles and Woolworths rolled out their own delivery services.

In a farewell dispatch on LinkedIn, Milkruns Dany Milham said scale was vital for success:

We always knew that achieving the scale needed to reach overall profitability would require significant initial and ongoing investment over a long period of time.

Who has more scale than Woollies and Coles?

Faced with sterner competition from deep-pocketed rivals, Milkruns cash burn turned into an inferno.

Already losing money on each order, Milkrun now had to pay more to acquire new customers.

In the end, Milkruns upside was capped by its business models calculus.

As Datt elaborated in his Milkrun commentary:

You cant eat revenue. Revenues can be remarkably easy to build quickly, but the true measure of success for a company is sustainable profits and market share over time. Clearly the traction to date had not been sufficient to justify further investment.

ChatGPT takes on Wall Street

Before I go, a final note.

Earlier this month, I wrote about the rise of artificial intelligence technology popularised by OpenAIs ChatGPT.

In that piece, I wondered whether the large language model tools underpinning ChatGPT will be taken up by investment companies hunting alpha.

And it does seem like generative AI research is heading for Wall Street.

Overnight, Bloomberg reported this:

Two new papers have been published this month that deployed the artificial intelligence chatbot in market-relevant tasks  one in deciphering whether Federal Reserve statements were hawkish or dovish, and one in determining whether headlines were good or bad for a stock. ChatGPT aced both tests, suggesting a potentially major step forward in the use of technology to turn reams of text from news articles to tweets and speeches into trading signals. Its one of the rare cases where the hype is real, said Slavi Marinov, head of machine learning at Man AHL, which has been using the technology known as natural language processing to read texts like earnings transcripts and Reddit posts for years.

The hype is real, it seems.

Regards,





Kiryll Prakapenka,

Editor, Money Morning
Mechanicsburg Borough is negotiating with Norfolk Southern to acquire land near Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Park that could be used to develop a future rail-trail to Dillsburg, according to Borough Manager Layne Thompson.

The goal is to reach a settlement this year where the railroad would agree to sell or donate the land to the borough, which is acting on behalf of the Friends of the South Mountain Greenway initiative, he said.

The greenway is a proposed 8-mile hiking/biking trail that would follow a historic trolley route along the former Cumberland Valley Railroad corridor between Dillsburg and Mechanicsburg.

The project calls for trailheads in the vicinity of Memorial Park in the north and Coover Park in Dillsburg in the south. The trail would traverse Mechanicsburg Borough and Monroe and Silver Spring townships, along with Dillsburg Borough and Carroll Township in York County.

Mechanicsburg is serving two roles in this initiative, Thompson said. The first is land acquisition. The second is to connect the rail-trail, when its built, to our network of trails in the borough so it becomes part of a larger trail network.

The land is a right-of-way owned by Norfolk Southern that starts along the rail-line just west of Memorial Park and extends south past the borough wastewater treatment plant to Church Road near Mulberry Drive. Acquiring the land would enable Mechanicsburg to help advocates develop a trailhead to make the connection.

We want to lead by example and make sure people see how important it is and get on board, Thompson said.

Greenway development

Launched in 2016, the greenway was supported early on by the South Mountain Partnership. In 2021, the Friends group became part of the Cumberland Valley Rails-to-Trails Council Inc., giving it greater ability to promote and fundraise.

We became a subcommittee of the council so that we could use their expertise, said Judy Bailey who, with Elisha Riggins, is a co-chair of the Friends. We have nonprofit status.

In mid-March, state Sen. Mike Regan, R-Cumberland, announced the award of a $36,000 grant to help the trail council acquire land in Silver Spring Township and Mechanicsburg. The grant could be used to purchase the first of many rights-of-ways needed to establish a rail-trail along the historic trolley route, said Garret Stahlman, president of the trail councils board of directors.

The abandoned trolley route cuts through the property of about 45 landowners, Bailey said. A concern of some in the public is whether the Friends could exercise eminent domain to acquire right-of-way.

We dont have the power or authority to use eminent domain, Bailey said. Were not that type of an organization. We are hoping to work with the property owners.

As much as possible, the Friends would like to develop the trail along the historic route, Riggins said. The Friends may have to divert the route either temporarily or permanently in response to the level of cooperation, she said.

We will work from whatever direction we can find willing landowners and move the trail forward, Riggins said. Its one step at a time right now.

The Friends have verbal promises and/or letters of support from property owners willing to commit at least to the idea of granting an easement, Riggins said. Its a big commitment from our landowners. The problem is we dont know exactly what were offering them because we dont know exactly where the trail will go.

To design the project from Dillsburg north, the Friends have applied for a planning grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. The group also plans to schedule outreach meetings to draw input from neighborhood groups and municipal parks and recreation committees.

While no buildings exist within the trolley route, the greenway is bisected by the Pennsylvania Turnpike on the north near Mechanicsburg, Bailey said. The hope is that some kind of bridge over the highway or tunnel under the highway could be included in the 20-year plan when the Turnpike could be widened.

Greenway history

We love the history of it, Riggins said of the greenway.

Completed in 1872, the Dillsburg branch of the Cumberland Valley Railroad connected the rail network in Harrisburg with the ore fields of South Mountain surrounding Dillsburg. Later, passenger service prospered, including runs to the annual Grangers Picnic at Williams Grove that drew tens of thousands of train riders over the course of the one-week event.

In the early 20th century, the branch became incorporated into the larger Pennsylvania Railroad system and the line was electrified in 1906. Electrified passenger car service between the towns began and the trolley became a common sight across the farmland of Monroe Township, Cumberland County, and Carroll Township, York County.

Eventually, the automobile replaced the railroad as the principal people mover. By the late 1970s, all trains ceased running on the line and the tracks were removed in the early 1980s.

In 2000, the greenway was first identified as the Trolley Line Greenway in the Cumberland Countywide Greenway Study. Five years later, in 2005, the greenway was further documented in the Northern York Region Comprehensive Parks & Recreation Open Space Plan.
March 13, 2023 China's Prestigious Middle East Deal May Soon See Challenges The big deal between Saudi Arabia and Iran, which China mediated, may soon lead to new trouble. The deal included security clauses: [C]onfidential clauses were inserted into the Beijing Agreement to assure Iran and Saudi Arabia that their security imperatives would be met. Some of these details were provided to The Cradle, courtesy of a source involved in the negotiations: Both Saudi Arabia and the Islamic Republic of Iran undertake not to engage in any activity that destabilizes either state, at the security, military or media levels.

Saudi Arabia pledges not to fund media outlets that seek to destabilize Iran, such as Iran International.

Saudi Arabia pledges not to fund organizations designated as terrorists by Iran, such as the Peoples Mojahedin Organization (MEK), Kurdish groups based in Iraq, or militants operating out of Pakistan.

Iran pledges to ensure that its allied organizations do not violate Saudi territory from inside Iraqi territory. During negotiations, there were discussions about the targeting of Aramco facilities in Saudi Arabia in September 2019, and Irans guarantee that an allied organization would not carry out a similar strike from Iraqi lands.

Saudi Arabia and Iran will seek to exert all possible efforts to resolve conflicts in the region, particularly the conflict in Yemen, in order to secure a political solution that secures lasting peace in that country. According to sources involved in the Beijing negotiations, no details on Yemens conflict were agreed upon as there has already been significant progress achieved in direct talks between Riyadh and Yemens Ansarallah resistance movement in January. These have led to major understandings between the two warring states, which the US and UAE have furiously sought to undermine in order to prevent a resolution of the Yemen war. In Beijing however, the Iranian and Saudis agreed to help advance the decisions already reached between Riyadh and Sanaa, and build upon these to end the seven-year war. The Saudi pledges are significant for Iran. Since last October there had been on and off protests and riots combined with terrorist attacks by Sunni militants in Baloch region in southeast Iran and terrorist attacks in northwest Iran by Sunni Kurdish militants which had crossed over from north Iraq. The protests were fueled by Iran International, a Saudi funded channel in London. That channel is now moving to Washington DC where it seems to have found new funding. Saudi Arabia was also financing the Kurdish and Baloch rebels. They have now stopped their attack in Iran. Today Iran announced an amnesty for some 22,000 people who had been arrested during the riots: [Irans judiciary head Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejehi] said a total of 82,656 prisoners and those facing charges had been pardoned. Of those, some 22,628 had been arrested amid the demonstrations, he said. Those pardoned had not committed theft or violent crimes, he added. The Iranian pledges have likewise solved Saudi Arabia security problems. There will be no more attacks on its oil infrastructure. An additional item in the Cradle report is also significant: On a slightly separate note related to regional security  but not part of the Beijing Agreement  sources involved in negotiations confirmed to The Cradle that, during talks, the Saudi delegation stressed Riyadhs commitment to the 2002 Arab peace initiative; refusing normalization with Tel Aviv before the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, with Jerusalem as its capital. This is of course bad for Israel which had hoped to drag Saudi Arabia onto its site to then attack Iran. That has for now become impossible. The China mediated deal is also a red flag for Washington: [T]he agreement undercuts the posture of the U.S. in the region. The U.S. has downsized in Syria after withdrawing forces in 2021 from Afghanistan. The deal also comes as Saudi Arabia is demanding certain security guarantees, a steady flow of arms shipments and assistance with its civilian nuclear program in order to normalize relations with Israel, a major U.S. ally, the White House confirmed on Friday. Speaking to reporters, National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said the U.S. was informed about the Saudi Arabia-Iran talks but played no role in them. One wonders if the recent anti-Chinese campaign was launched because the U.S. knew of the deal and tried to interrupt it. The deal may well have implementation issues: Chinas role in the Saudi-Iranian deal is momentous. However, Beijing may find that its relations in the region are undermined by failures in its implementation.

...

As the broker of the deal, or at least the third-party country listed in the statement, the key question is whether China will  or even can  realistically underwrite or support the translation of the agreement into practice. The first issue is one of capabilities. Unlike Washington, Chinas power projection capabilities are highly limited. With its sole foreign military base in Djibouti, and no substantial security architecture in the region, Beijing would be unable to enforce the deal with the use  or threat  of force. While this very absence of military might may be a source of soft power for China in the eyes of regional states, given that it signals a genuine desire to avoid interfering in other states affairs, Beijing cannot protect key assets in the region or respond to transgressions. Beijing is still reliant on Washington in this regard. Who's are the 'key assets' in the region? Are they not owned by the countries they are in? If Iran and the Saudis hold onto the agreement there is no need for the U.S. to be there. Beijing is certainly not relying on anything Washington could do there. The second, and far more pressing, issue is one of willingness. Chinas role in brokering the deal is unlikely to see it raise its head above the parapet if violence or tensions erupt. Beijing has expended decades of diplomatic effort to cultivate good relations with all regional states. We are simply unlikely to see China risk blowing it all by siding with one partner at the expense of the other. The author seems to believe that China should take sides. If the agreement holds there will be no need to do that. If it doesn't hold China will mediate again until peace returns. Fundamentally, this deal comes down to the two regional states (and indeed the other GCC states). If they play ball, China can claim a monumental victory in Middle Eastern diplomacy. If, as is more likely, tensions surface, Beijing will find that it has overstretched. It will almost certainly be unable and unwilling to act as a guarantor of the deal. For a quick diplomatic win, China has placed its policy of neutrality in jeopardy. The current question from Chinas perspective is whether it will retain the respect of all parties if the agreement fails. The real implementation problems the deal and China will face are not the ones the author quoted above mentions. The U.S. does not like the deal because it diminishes its role in the region. Israel does not like the deal because it lessens its chances to go after Iran: The U.S. and Israel dont look kindly on the news of the diplomatic breakthrough. They first fear that China is increasingly assertive in its role in the region, and the U.S. does not want to experience what Britain experienced in Suez in 1956: a watershed moment signaling its global decline. The U.S. stood up to Britain, France and Israel who combined to attack Egypt after its leader Gamal Abdel Nasser nationalized the Suez Canal. The event is seen as the final act of the British Empire before joining the more powerful U.S. imperium.

...

If the agreement does accomplish the goal of truly bringing peace and amity between the two rivals, China may then enjoy a Suez moment: when the world signals the end of the American Empire like what happened to the British. Both, Israel and the U.S, are capable and likely willing to do whatever is necessary to prevent an implementation of the deal. They can probable use their good relations with the United Arab Emirates to make things difficult. False flag attacks in Iran and in Saudi Arabia could be a way to do that. If a new 'Iranian' drone attack happens in Saudi oil fields or new 'Saudi financed' terrorist attack in Iran happen the deal could indeed be scraped. One hopes that China and the other parties involved in the deal are conscious of that. Posted by b on March 13, 2023 at 17:55 UTC | Permalink Comments next page  next page 
March 10, 2023 Mediated By China Iran And Saudi Arabia Restore Ties - There Are Winners And Losers This is huge! Regional rivals Iran and Saudi Arabia agree to restore ties after years of tensions

The deal, which will see the two countries reopen embassies in each others capitals, was sealed during a meeting in China and announced Friday in a joint communique. Archrivals Iran and Saudi Arabia agreed Friday to restore diplomatic relations, a dramatic breakthrough brokered by China after years of soaring tensions between the regional rivals. The deal, which will see the two countries reopen embassies in each others capitals, was sealed during a meeting in China  a boost to Beijings efforts to rival the United States as a broker on the global stage. The agreement also may put a dampener Israel's ongoing efforts to normalize relations with its Arab neighbors. The talks were held because of a shared desire to resolve the disagreements between them through dialogue and diplomacy, and in light of their brotherly ties, according to a joint communique from Tehran, Riyadh and Beijing that was published by the Saudi Press Agency, the countrys official news agency. The agreement followed intensive negotiations between Ali Shamkhani, a close adviser to Irans supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khameni, and Saudi Arabias Minister of State Musaad bin Mohammed Al-Aiban, according to the statement. It added that the foreign ministers from both countries would meet to implement this, arrange for the return of their ambassadors, and discuss means of enhancing bilateral relations. The joint statement by Saudi Arabia, Iran and China is here: In response to the noble initiative of His Excellency President Xi Jinping, President of the Peoples Republic of China, of Chinas support for developing good neighborly relations between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Islamic Republic of Iran; And based on the agreement between His Excellency President Xi Jinping and the leaderships in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and the Islamic Republic of Iran, whereby the Peoples Republic of China would host and sponsor talks between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Islamic Republic of Iran; Proceeding from their shared desire to resolve the disagreements between them through dialogue and diplomacy, and in light of their brotherly ties; ... Congrats to China for nudging this deal forward and making it possible. There are winners and losers in this. The winners are: Iran, which will now be even more able to break through the sanctions wall the U.S. has put up around it.

Saudi Arabia, which now will likely be able to end its disastrous and costly war on Yemen.

China, for outplaying the U.S. State Department by achieving this.

Iraq, Syria, Yemen as they will become more peaceful as the two middle powers influencing policies on their grounds end their rivalry. The losers are: Israel, because the chances for its attempts to get the U.S. into a war with Iran are now diminished. Its hoped for coalition with the Saudis will not come into being.

The U.S. for having been outplayed on its traditional 'home grounds' in the Middle East.

Anti-Iran hawks everywhere.

The Emirates for losing at least some of the sanction busting trade with Iran to Saudi Arabia. This renewal of relations will change the Middle East: Tensions between Sunni Muslim powerhouse Saudi Arabia and Iran, which is majority Shiite, have dominated the region for decades. The two countries have been locked in an intensifying struggle for dominance, their rivalry exacerbated by proxy conflicts, including the war in Yemen. Saudi Arabia, the birthplace of Islam and the site of its two holiest cities, has historically seen itself as the leader of the Muslim world. The Iranian Revolution of 1979 shook Saudi Arabia and other Gulf kingdoms, which saw the regime in Tehran as a rival. While tensions brewed for years, Saudi Arabia broke off ties in 2016 after protesters stormed Saudi diplomatic posts in Iran and set fire to the embassy in Tehran. Days earlier, Saudi Arabia had executed the prominent Shiite cleric Nimr al-Nimr. Clearing up the misunderstandings and looking to the future in Tehran-Riyadh relations will definitely lead to the development of regional stability and security and the increase of cooperation between the countries of the Persian Gulf and the Islamic world to manage the existing challenges, Shamkhani said Friday after signing the deal, according to Press TV. In 2016 I describe the killing of Nimr al-Nimr as a smart move in the sense of Saudi domestic realpolitik. But I also said that it would lead to escalating costs in Saudi Arabia's regional policies, predominantly in Yemen. That indeed proved to be the case. Reviving relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran will make a lot of new things possible. That Iran and Saudi Arabia accepted China's mediation is a recognition of Beijing's new standing in world policies. That alone is enough reason for the White House to hate the deal. Posted by b on March 10, 2023 at 14:17 UTC | Permalink Comments next page  next page 
April 18, 2023 China Brings Peace To Yemen, Syria And ... Palestine? Peace is breaking out in the Middle East and the U.S. is pushed aside by more friendly actors. On March 10 the world was surprised with a China mediated deal that restored ties between Saudi Arabia and Iran: There are winners and losers in this. The winners are: Iran, which will now be even more able to break through the sanctions wall the U.S. has put up around it.

Saudi Arabia, which now will likely be able to end its disastrous and costly war on Yemen.

China, for outplaying the U.S. State Department by achieving this.

Iraq, Syria, Yemen as they will become more peaceful as the two middle powers influencing policies on their grounds end their rivalry. The losers are: Israel, because the chances for its attempts to get the U.S. into a war with Iran are now diminished. Its hoped for coalition with the Saudis will not come into being.

The U.S. for having been outplayed on its traditional 'home grounds' in the Middle East.

Anti-Iran hawks everywhere.

The Emirates for losing at least some of the sanction busting trade with Iran to Saudi Arabia. ...

Reviving relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran will make a lot of new things possible. That Iran and Saudi Arabia accepted China's mediation is a recognition of Beijing's new standing in world policies. That alone is enough reason for the White House to hate the deal. I predicted that the U.S. and Israel would do their best to sabotage the deal or at least make its implementation difficult. The U.S. sent CIA director Bill Burns to warn the Saudis off. However the deal has held so far and the Saudis are repairing their relations with countries against which they previously waged wars. Yesterday a senior Saudi official visited Sanaa and shook hands with Yemeni Houthi officials: Saudi Arabias military intervention against the Shiite Houthis began in 2015. Bolstered by extensive American military and intelligence support, it came to include 25,000 air raids, according to a count by the Yemen Data Project. The years of fighting created one of the worlds worst humanitarian crises and resulted in the deaths of more than 377,000 Yemenis by the end of 2021 from both war and hunger, the United Nations calculates. The Houthis have made Saudi Arabia and its coalition allies pay a high price for their failed bid to return to the capital the internationally recognized government after it was ousted by the Houthis. They have launched more than 1,000 missiles and 350 drones into Saudi territory, increasingly deeply since 2019, prompting Riyadh to search for a way out of its military quagmire. The accelerated moves follow just weeks after a high-profile rapprochement brokered last month by China between rivals Saudi Arabia and Iran  both of which turned Yemens civil war into a proxy battleground to expand their regional influence. Over the last week the Saudis and Houthi sides released prisoners of war. The U.S. has done its best to sabotage the deal: In the wake of the China-backed detente, the Saudis have largely been willing to abandon their proxies in the interest of ending what has been a draining war. The U.S. responded with alarm, rushing diplomats to the region to insist that pressure continue being applied to the Houthi government in the hope of undermining the deal in the works. [Tim Lenderking, the U.S. envoy for Yemen,] rushed to Riyadh on April 11, as news broke of a peace deal, to remind Saudi leaders of the U.S. desire that they continue to back their proxies in the war. Instead, the ceasefire talks appear to have become possible because of an agreement in principle that Saudi Arabia would abandon its puppet government, back down from the blockade, and  as the Houthis hoped  use its vast oil wealth to pay Yemeni civil servants. A similar rapprochement is happening between Saudi Arabia and Syria. On April 12 the Syrian Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad visited Saudi Arabia: The visit is the first by a Syrian foreign minister to Saudi Arabia since 2011, when the war in Syria began. Saudi Arabia supported the Syrian opposition, but ties have thawed in recent months. Syrias President Bashar al-Assad has largely defeated the opposition with Russian and Iranian backing. Over the past few months, there has been increasing engagement with al-Assad, who has been isolated since the start of the Syrian war. Al-Assad has visited the UAE and Oman this year, and last month Saudi Arabia said it has started talks with Damascus about resuming consular services. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia will host a meeting of regional foreign ministers on Friday to discuss the return of Syria to the Arab League. The Arab League re-entry will not happen for some time as Qatar, which supported the Muslim Brotherhood rebels against Syria, continues to be hostile to it. The Saudis will never the less continue their plan. Today the Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan arrived in Damascus for a meeting with President Bashar al-Assad: Saudi Arabia severed ties with Assad's government in 2012 and Riyadh had long openly championed Assad's ouster, backing Syrian rebels in earlier stages of the war. Several other Arab countries also cut ties with Syria as some powers bet on Assad's demise. But regional capitals have gradually been warming to Assad as he has clawed back most of the territory lost to rivals, with crucial backing from Russia and Iran. As with Yemen the U.S. does not like this move. It will continue its effort to isolate Syria and its government. It is no by chance that today, Just as the Saudi foreign minister visits Damascus, the U.S. is revealing a looming indictment of high ranking Syrian officials: The inquiry, which has not been previously reported, aims to bring to account top Syrian officials considered key architects of a ruthless system of detention and torture that has flourished under President Bashar al-Assad: Jamil Hassan, the head of the Air Force Intelligence Directorate when Ms. Shweikani disappeared, and Ali Mamlouk, then the head of Syrias National Security Bureau intelligence service. A federal indictment accusing the men of committing war crimes would be the first time that the United States has criminally charged top Syrian officials with the very human rights abuses that Mr. al-Assad has long denied using to silence dissent. Although the men are unlikely to be apprehended, a conviction would signal that the United States aims to hold the Syrian government responsible. Already, the United States has imposed sanctions on Mr. al-Assad and his inner circle, including Mr. Mamlouk and Mr. Hassan, over abuses like violence against civilians.

...

A potential indictment would personalize the evil of this regime and make it clear you cant do business with Assad, said former Ambassador James F. Jeffrey, the Trump administrations special representative for Syria engagement. The move will be to no avail. The next country to patch it up with Syria will be Turkey. The Saudi clown prince Mohammad Bin Sultan has decided to develop Saudi Arabia into more than an oil producing country and pilgrimage enterprise. Peace is a prerequisite for development. Good relations with Iran and its various friends in the region will also keep Saudi Arabia out of a potential conflict between Iran and Israel. There China may also be helpful. It has just offered to facilitate Israel-Palestinian peace talks: In separate phone calls to the two officials on Monday, [Chinas foreign minister] Qin Gang expressed Chinas concern over intensifying tensions between Israel and Palestinians and its support for a resumption of peace talks, the Foreign Ministry said in statements issued late Monday. Qin stressed in his talks with Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen that Saudi Arabia and Iran have set a good example of overcoming differences through dialogue, a statement about that phone call said. He told Cohen that Beijing encourages Israel and the Palestinians to show political courage and take steps to resume peace talks. China is willing to provide convenience for this, he was quoted as saying. This is another area where the U.S. has previously held, as in Saudi Arabia, an exclusive role. China, with the support of Russia, is wrestling the U.S. of that role bit by bit. It can do this because it is perceived as neutral and shows no interest in any aggression. It is the opposite of how the U.S. is perceived in the region. The Chinese way of doing these things makes it likely that these efforts will have better and longer lasting outcomes. Posted by b on April 18, 2023 at 16:19 UTC | Permalink Comments next page  next page 
Her courage to do that was immensely appreciated by everyone. However, that did come with a sacrifice. She has now been faced with a massive repair bill of around $10,000 to fix the damages done to her car, or as we like to call it, the gran-mobile.
A musical partnership uniting performers from Charlottesville and Hungary is bringing a variety of chamber compositions to the Dome Room of the University of Virginias Rotunda.

A free concert featuring members of UVas music faculty and that of the University of Pecs Institute of Music and Fine Arts in Hungary, set for 1 p.m. on Saturday, will let audience members hear the fruits of an ongoing collaboration.

Daniel Sender, concertmaster of the Charlottesville Symphony at UVa and associate professor of violin in the Department of Music, started building the relationships during his Fulbright Fellowship in Hungary from 2010 to 2011. The artistic and cultural collaboration Sender founded has led to his spending a semester teaching at the University of Pecs; a weeklong residency by UVa faculty members, students and recent graduates that included an internationally livestreamed gala concert; and a new biannual UVa course, Experiencing Hungarian Music and Cultural History, which offers students an opportunity to study abroad.

Saturdays guest musicians include violinist Mate Szucs, an in-demand chamber musician who served as principal violist of the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra from 2011 to 2018; cellist Lazlo Polus, who is principal cellist of the Hungarian State Opera and cellist of the Somogyi String Quartet; and violinist Zoltan Banfalvi, who belongs to the Budapest Sextet and Hungarian Chamber Orchestra and is concertmaster of the Pannon Philharmonic in Pecs.

The program includes Wolfgang Amadeus Mozarts Oboe Quartet in F Major, K. 370, which teams up oboist Kelly Peral and cellist Adam Carter from UVa with Banfalvi and Szucs; Erno Dohnanyis Serenade in C Major, Op. 10, featuring Banfalvi, Szucs and Polus; and, after a brief intermission, Felix Mendelssohns String Quintet No. 2 in E-flat Major, Op. 87 with Sender and violist Ayn Balija from UVa performing with Banfalvi, Szucs and Polus.

Its a project Im really passionate about, Sender told The Daily Progress.

Sender and UVa pianist John Mayhood went to Hungary in 2019 to kick off the creative venture. The partnership unites musicians in two college towns with ties to two UNESCO World Heritage sites, but one is significantly older than the other.

At the time we were celebrating our 200th [anniversary], they were celebrating their 650th, Sender said. We saw all these charming overlaps, and we wanted to do arts exchanges and enhance peoples lives.

The COVID-19 pandemic and the shutdowns it triggered postponed one of the early trips.

On March 5, 2020, bags packed and ready to go, we were told the day before that we could not go, Sender said.

In March 2022, UVa students joined Sender in Pecs for a weeklong residency over spring break.

Sender said that listeners in the intimate Dome Room setting at UVa are likely to notice a distinct Hungarian sound. Thats a rare experience at a time when most countries ensembles are adopting an accessible and familiar international style.

The Hungarian musicians are trained in a national style, and there are very few of those left, Sender said. There is still a Hungarian national style of music making.

That aspect will make the performance of the Dohnanyi work  music by a Hungarian composer performed by accomplished Hungarian musicians  a special treat for the American audience, Sender said.

Its one of the most outstanding trios in the repertoire, and theyre going to bring all their idiomatic style, Sender said.

While theyre in Charlottesville, the musicians from the University of Pecs will attend Charlottesville Symphony rehearsals for this weekends Dazzling Dances concert, which will take place at 8 p.m. on Saturday in Cabell Hall Auditorium and 3:30 p.m. on Sunday at the Martin Luther King Jr. Performing Art Center. The guests also will present a free masterclass at 5 p.m. on Thursday in Cabell Hall Auditorium.

Parking for the Dome Room concert will be available on the street or in nearby parking garages. Audience members who ride the Charlottesville trolley to get there can disembark at the stop right in front of the Rotunda steps. For details, email music@virginia.edu or call (434) 924-3052.
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP)  The judge hearing the wrongful death lawsuit against actor Alec Baldwin and an array of producers and crew linked to a fatal film set shooting agreed Monday to seal from public view the terms of a proposed settlement agreement in the case that benefits the son of slain cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.

The New Mexico judge said the right to privacy for Hutchins' 10-year-old son overrides obligations for public disclosure and ordered that settlement documents and approval hearings be sealed in the civil lawsuit that argues that Baldwin and other film crewmembers ignored industry gun safety standards on the set of the Western film Rust" ahead of the 2021 shooting.

What is driving my decision is really the interests of the minor child. And that is one of the very most powerful reasons to seal a matter, District Court Judge Bryan Biedscheid said in a videoconference hearing of the Santa Fe-based court.

Baldwin, an actor and coproducer of the film, was pointing a pistol at Hutchins during a rehearsal on the film's set outside Santa Fe when the gun went off, killing her and wounding director Joel Souza. He and other defendants have disputed the accusations that they were lax with safety standards.

Widower Matthew Hutchins filed the wrongful death suit last year against Rust producers, including Baldwin, as well as members of the film crew with safety responsibilities and an ammunition supplier. Son Andros Hutchins, who was 9 at the time of the shooting, is also named as a plaintiff.

Attorneys for they boy said Monday that secrecy provisions are paramount to protect his privacy and finalize a settlement with Rust producers.

Knowledge of the settlement terms also will be off limits to people beyond Rust producers who were named as defendants in the lawsuit, including weapons supervisor Hannah Gutierrez-Reed. Several of those defendants objected to being left in the dark on details of the settlement, though approval of the agreement should end their involvement in the wrongful death suit.

Gutierrez-Reed and Baldwin are also confronting criminal charges of involuntary manslaughter in separate court proceedings and have pleaded not guilty, with two weeks of evidentiary hearings scheduled in May.

Matthew Hutchins outlined a proposed settlement agreement in October that opened the way for filming of Rust to resume in Montana. He'll serve as a producer.
The Lyndon B. Johnson non-profit foundation honors Willie Nelson for his lifetime of achievements for helping farmers with an Endowment for Uplifting Rural Communities fund for future leaders.

The foundation will also honor Nelson with the prestige "LBJ Liberty & Justice for All Award" on May 12, according to University of Texas at Austin.

The "Willie Nelson Endowment for Uplifting Rural Communities" will fund and support research and student fellowships focused on sustainable agriculture, eliminating hunger, resilient energy, sustainable water, and natural disaster recovery to benefit rural and farm communities.

"Named in honor of Willie Nelson, the fund celebrates his legacy and numerous contributions over his lifetime, including Willie's longtime leadership of Farm Aid, which has raised over $70 million to build a vibrant, family farm-centered system of agriculture in the U.S.," University of Texas said on its website.

Adding, that the endowment leverages the universities potential to improve food policy and sustainable water in rural areas, and enables a continuation of Nelson's support in communities across the country recovering from and adapting to natural disasters

President and First Lady Johnson first established the foundation in 1969 as a non-profit organization comprised of a board of trustees and administrative staff that supports the presidential library and the LBJ School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas at Austin.

The LBJ School of Public Affairs website describes the foundation's mission which was to created to embody Johnsons living legacy by" nurturing leaders and public servants in the hopes that they will pursue what he called "the oldest most basic mission of our country; to right wrong; to do justice; to serve man."
John Moore/Getty Images

West Texas police led a raid on a home in the city of Socorro where they rescued several young girls from a human trafficking case.

Officers raided the El Paso County home they referred to as a "stash house" in mid-April after receiving a tip about illegal substances and human smuggling. That's where they found at least six girls unaccompanied in the home.
With Earth Day coming this weekend, the Keep Midland Beautiful TreeKeepers, Diamondback Energy and the City of Midland partnered to plant 50 trees at MLK Park Tuesday morning. With the help of fourth-graders from Pease Elementary, dirt flew through the air and names  such as Michael-Timmy and Johnson  were given to each plant.

As part of their pledge to plant 100 trees throughout the community in 2023, Diamondback Energy provided the funding for todays trees and other materials. Clint Williamson, corporate affairs manager, said 50 employees were on site to help.
Parents planning to send their children to kindergarten next year in Albemarle County or the city of Charlottesville will be able to register in the coming days.

Registration for Albemarle kids opens on Wednesday and runs until May 31, according to the Albemarle County Public Schools website.

And while theres no set date for Charlottesville kindergarten forms, theyre expected to be available as early as April 24, according to the Charlottesville City Schools website.

Both registration processes will require certain documents to be uploaded, including an original birth certificate, proof of residency and physical examination and immunization reports for the child who plans to attend. Children must be 5 years old by Sept. 30 and reside in Charlottesville or Albemarle to qualify for the respective areas enrollment.
FILE PHOTO: A vial labelled "AstraZeneca COVID-19 Vaccine" is seen in this illustration taken January 16, 2022. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File Photo
British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Japan's Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi, Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly, French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna, Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, and Deputy Secretary-General of the European External Action Service (EEAS) Enrique Mora pose for photographs at the start of the fifth working session of a G7 Foreign Ministers' Meeting at the Prince Karuizawa hotel in Karuizawa on April 18, 2023. YUICHI YAMAZAKI/Pool via REUTERS
US arrests two for setting up Chinese 'secret police station' in New York
The University of Virginia School of Law plans to host a conversation with controversial former FBI agent Peter Strzok on Tuesday.

Strzok, the former deputy assistant director of the FBIs counterintelligence division, led investigations into Russian interference in the 2016 election as well as former Secretary of State Hillary Clintons use of a personal email server. Hes the author of Compromised: Counterintelligence and the Threat of Donald J. Trump and is currently an adjunct professor at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C.

In July of 2017, Strzok was removed from Robert Muellers special counsel investigation into links between former President Donald Trumps presidential campaign and the Russian government after the discovery of text messages criticizing Trump. Strzok was later fired by the FBIs then-Deputy Director David Bowdich in 2018 after public denouncements by Trump; he later filed a wrongful termination suit asserting that the dismissal violated his First Amendment rights and the Privacy Act.

Tuesday's event is scheduled to take place from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the UVa law schools Caplin Pavilion. Professor Danielle Citron will serve as a moderator. A reception is planned to follow.
Jacksonville Police Department is inviting area teens to learn about law enforcement during a summer academy.

The department will hold its Teen Police Academy in June. The academy will be split into two camps  one for middle schoolers ages 12 to 14 and another for high schoolers ages 15 to 17. The middle school academy will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 5-9, while the high school academy will be from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 12-16.

Each day, the students will be driven from police headquarters, 200 W. Douglas St., to the Jacksonville Police Department Training Facility. Lunch and a T-shirt will be provided free.

Dave Turner, school resource officer for Jacksonville Middle School, said students at both grade levels will be engaged with a variety of activities each day.

The middle schoolers will be visited by the department's Special Response Unit, a K-9 unit from Illinois State Police and the Army National Guard, who will lead the group in team-building exercises, Turner said. They also will attend classes on social media safety, CPR training and mental health care.

The high schoolers will receive "a little bit less instruction" as they experience things like a distracted driving course, a state police car crash simulator and talking with the pilot and nurses of an Air Evac helicopter, Turner said.

Students also will receive training in police activities, such as sweeping buildings, traffic stops, solving a mock crime scene and a "shoot/don't shoot simulator," which Turner said will test their ability to quickly make a decision on whether to shoot a suspect.

The goal of the academy is to build up students' self-esteem and make them more comfortable taking on leadership roles, Turner said.

"We need that so much in our community," he said, "and we're trying to do our part to kind of give them the confidence and kind of boost them up and say, 'Hey, you can do anything you can set your mind to. You can build a team and your team can help you.'"

Registration packets for the academy are available at Jacksonville Middle School, Jacksonville High School, Our Saviour School and Routt Catholic High School. The sign-up deadline is May 6 for middle schoolers and May 12 for high schoolers.
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UPDATE: Jacksonville teen, reported missing Sunday, is found safe

A missing and endangered person advisory has been issued for a Jacksonville teenager who has not been seen since leaving his home Sunday evening.

Jacksonville Police Department is asking for the public's help in finding Jesus "Jesse" Enrique Mendoza, 16, who last was seen walking south on Pine Street, heading toward State Street, at approximately 7:45 p.m. Sunday. Mendoza, who attends Jacksonville High School, has not been to school since Friday.

Mendoza is described as Hispanic, about 5-feet, 5-inches tall, with short to medium curly black hair, dark brown eyes, and a medium to tan complexion. His left ear is pierced, and he normally wears a diamond stud or cross earring.

Mendoza last was seen wearing dark-colored joggers/pajama pants with either Crocs or slides shoes and a button-up red Cardinals windbreaker.

Jacksonville Police Department has been following up on several leads provided by the family but, so far, their search has turned up nothing.

"We are knocking on doors of people who know him," Lt. Sean Walker said. "We know several of his close friends arent showing up at school, either. We're just searching based on what the family has told us. So far nothing has turned up."

His mother, Jennifer Valencia, also has taken her search for her son to social media.

"Jesse has not been heard from or seen by anyone nor has he been active on any of his social media since right before that time and didnt show up to school," Valencia said a Facebook post. "He doesnt have a phone, either. He was very upset after an argument and wasn't in the best place emotionally/mentally. The police had been involved ... and at this time we have exhausted any leads/efforts to locate him."

"There was a family disagreement, but we have no reason to believe he's not in the area," Walker said. "His mother has been in touch with us continually and has given us new information each time, which, unfortunately, hasn't led us to him."

Valencia has asked in her posts for the public's help.

"Please keep praying, keep sharing and keep the tips coming," she wrote in a recent post. "Even if it seems small or insignificant to you, it could mean everything to us and lead to us finding my baby. We follow every single lead. I will not stop ... not until my baby boy is home safe."

She also has appealed to her son.

"I don't care about anything else in the world," she wrote. "I just want to know you're safe and well. Please just call ... you're not in trouble."

Anyone who has any information on Mendoza's whereabouts is urged to call Jacksonville Police Department at 217-479-4630.
Sheriff

ARRESTS, CITATIONS

 Dalton E. Feikert, 28, of 1042 E. Morton Ave. was booked into the Morgan County jail at 4:46 a.m. Saturday on charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, delivery of methamphetamine and possession of cannabis.

 Timothy A. Hacker, 41, of 108 E. Ninth St., Beardstown, was booked into the Morgan County jail at 7:18 p.m. Wednesday on charges of possession of methamphetamine, delivery of methamphetamine, aggravated fleeing or eluding an officer and driving while license is revoked or suspended.

 Kenneth E. Baker, 66, of 100 Victory Lane, Woodson, was booked into the Morgan County jail at 3:51 p.m. April 11 on a battery charge.

Jacksonville Police

ARRESTS, CITATIONS

 Colton L. Pagan, 31, of 815 Hardin Ave. was arrested at 3:33 p.m. Sunday on an aggravated domestic battery charge after being accused of choking someone during a dispute.

 Nicholas L. Gray, 23, of Jacksonville; Katerina R. Evans, 24, of Jacksonville; and Seth L. Evans, 20, of Jacksonville were cited at 10:07 a.m. Sunday on charges of disorderly conduct after police said they were fighting in the 400 block of South Diamond Street.

 Marquise E. Jackson, 31, of 820 E. Lafayette Ave. was booked into the Morgan County jail at 11:34 p.m. Thursday on charges of mob action and aggravated battery and on a warrant accusing him of failing to appear in court on a charge of driving under the influence.

 Andrew J. Turner, 46, of 1055 S. East St. was booked into the Morgan County jail at 3:56 p.m. Friday on charges of theft of lost or mislaid property and receipt of goods or services.

South Jacksonville Police

ARRESTS, CITATIONS

 Jarrod L. Holtz, 50, of 405 Cedar St., Greenfield, was booked into the Morgan County jail at 4:42 a.m. Saturday on charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a meth analog.

Calhoun County

Sheriff

ARRESTS, CITATIONS

 James A. Jackson, 43, of Elsberry, Missouri, was booked into Greene County Jail at 6:22 p.m. March 18 on a charge of possession of methamphetamine.

Greene County

Sheriff

ARRESTS, CITATIONS

 Josie L. French, 31, of Mozier was booked into Greene County Jail at 5:27 p.m. April 10 on a Calhoun County warrant accusing her of obstructing justice.

 Austin L. Settles, 29, of Greenfield was booked into Greene County Jail at 9:43 p.m. April 8 on a charge of driving under the influence.

 Terry L. Miller Jr., 46, of White Hall was booked into Greene County Jail at 2:03 p.m. April 8 on a charge of violating an order of protection.

 Kendall J. Farris, 20, of Roodhouse was booked into Greene County Jail at 1:14 p.m. April 3 on a charge of consumption of liquor by a minor.

 Audrey M. Hale, 37, of White Hall was booked into Greene County Jail at 10:36 a.m. March 27 on a charge of possession of a controlled substance and on a Greene County warrant accusing her of failing to appear in court.

 Joseph W. Meza, 35, of Carrollton was booked into Greene County Jail at 9:37 p.m. March 23 on a charge of violating an order of protection.

 Matthew G. Dubois, 23, of Roodhouse was booked into Greene County Jail at 11:20 p.m. March 18 on a Greene County warrant accusing him of aggravated battery in a public place.

Carrollton Police

ARRESTS, CITATIONS

 Joseph W. Meza, 35, of Carrollton was booked into Greene County Jail at 3:17 p.m. Wednesday on a contempt of court charge.

 Joseph W. Meza, 35, of Carrollton was booked into Greene County Jail at 1:52 p.m. April 3 on a charge of violating an order of protection.

 Travis S. Maurer, 43, of Carrollton was booked into Greene County Jail at 10:26 p.m. March 20 on a charge of having an expired driver's license.

 Malindy A. Farris, 26, of Rockbridge was booked into Greene County Jail at 4:50 p.m. March 19 on a charge of driving while license is revoked or suspended.

 Daniel C. Voyles, 52, of Carrollton was booked into Greene County Jail at 9:36 p.m. March 19 on a charge of criminal trespass to property.

 Bruce W. Wright, 58, of Chesterfield was booked into Greene County Jail at 1:58 p.m March 15 on charges of retail theft and driving while license is revoked or suspended.

Greenfield Police

ARRESTS, CITATIONS

 Alicia K. Maxwell, 47, of Rock Island was booked into Greene County Jail at 7:13 p.m. Thursday on charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of a controlled substance and driving under the influence.

 Steven C. Rogers, 35, of Divernon was booked into Greene County Jail at 4:29 a.m. Thursday on a charge of driving while license is revoked.

 Jocelyn D. Bailey, 19, of Alton was booked into Greene County Jail at 6:41 p.m. April 9 on a charge of possession of a controlled substance.

 Michael A. Proffer, 44, of Jerseyville was booked into Greene County Jail at 2:06 a.m. April 9 on a charge of having no valid registration.

 Steven C. Rogers, 35, of Divernon was booked into Greene County Jail at 12:36 a.m. April 8 on a charge of driving while license is revoked or suspended.

 Phil V. Uncangco, 37, of East Alton was booked into Greene County Jail at 6:43 p.m. April 7 on charges of driving while license is revoked or suspended and operating a motor vehicle with suspended registration.

 Trish A. McKinney, 46, of Jacksonville was booked into Greene County Jail at 1:27 a.m. March 21 on charges of driving under the influence and improper lane use.

 Clarence E. Arnold, 44, of Bethalto was booked into Greene County Jail at 11:11 p.m. March 17 on charges of driving while license is revoked or suspended, driving under the influence, aggravated driving under the influence and having an expired registration.

 Jesse C. Williams, 56, of South Roxana was booked into Greene County Jail at 9:38 a.m. March 15 on a charge of driving while license is revoked or suspended.

Roodhouse Police

ARRESTS, CITATIONS

 Andrew K. Emerson, 20, of Roodhouse was booked into Greene County Jail at 8:11 p.m. April 8 on charges of domestic battery and unlawful restraint.

 Kim N. Henderson, 45, of Roodhouse was booked into Greene County Jail at 7:49 p.m. April 1 on a charge of driving while license is revoked or suspended.

 Larry M. Kauffold, 46, of Roodhouse was booked into Greene County Jail at 6:59 p.m. April 1 on a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia and on warrants from Pike County and Greene County accusing him of failing to appear in court.

 Amanda K. Edwards, 36, of Roodhouse was booked into Greene County Jail at 1:33 a.m. April 1 on a Pike County warrant accusing her of possession of methamphetamine, delivery of methamphetamine and bringing contraband into a penal institution.

 Shannon M. Stanberry, 41, of Jacksonville was booked into Greene County Jail at 11:31 p.m. March 30 on a disorderly conduct charge.

 Joshua M. Williams, 22, of White Hall was booked into Greene County Jail at 10:44 p.m. March 30 on a disorderly conduct charge.

 Chase A. Whicker, 19, of Winchester was booked into Greene County Jail at 2:46 a.m. March 26 on a charge of consumption of liquor by a minor.

White Hall Police

ARRESTS, CITATIONS

 Robert W. Stuller, 33, of Roodhouse was booked into Greene County Jail at 3:55 p.m. April 10 on a charge of driving while license is revoked or suspended.

 Hunter E. Neff, 19, of White Hall was booked into Greene County Jail at 10:14 a.m. April 10 on a charge of consumption of liquor by a minor.

 Jamie V. Steigelman, 37, of Granite City was booked into Greene County Jail at 8:49 p.m. April 8 on charges of driving while license is revoked or suspended and driving under the influence.

 Joshua K. Walters, 39, of White Hall was booked into Greene County Jail at 12:02 a.m. April 5 on a charge of possession of methamphetamine.

 Marya A. Radunzel, 38, of White Hall was booked into Greene County Jail at 12:47 a.m. April 4 on a domestic battery charge.

 Jerome T. Hawk, 59, of White Hall was booked into Greene County Jail at 12:47 a.m. April 4 on domestic battery charge.

 Luis A. Cruz, 31, of Gurnee was booked into Greene County Jail at 4:14 a.m. April 2 on charges of driving while license is revoked or suspended second or subsequent charge and two counts of obstructing a peace officer.

 Ricky L. Combs, 45, of Roodhouse was booked into Greene County Jail at 11:35 p.m. March 29 on a charge of driving while license is revoked or suspended.

 Jaelyn D. McLemore, 19, of Alton was booked into Greene County Jail at 10:07 a.m. March 29 on a charge of illegal transportation of cannabis by a driver.

 Calvin R. Shaw, 19, of Springfield was booked into Greene County Jail at 1:34 a.m. March 26 on a charge of consumption of liquor by a minor.

 Jordan D. Shaw, 51, of White Hall was booked into Greene County Jail at 11:36 a.m. March 22 on a battery charge and on a Greene County warrant accusing him of failing to appear in court.

 Johanna M. Shaw, 37, of Carrollton was booked into Greene County Jail at 2:46 a.m. March 18 on a charge of driving under the influence.

Scott County

Sheriff

ARRESTS, CITATIONS

 James A. Gaines, 45, of Ashland was booked into Greene County Jail at 4:54 p.m. March 27 on a Scott County arrest warrant accusing him of theft and failure to pay timber fees.

 Jacob B. Steckel, 45, of Winchester was booked into Greene County Jail at 2:22 a.m. March 16 on charges of driving under the influence, driving while license is revoked or suspended and resisting arrest.
MADISON, Wis. (AP)  Republicans on the Legislature's budget committee voted Tuesday to kill funding for the largest land conservation project in Wisconsin history, a move that came following concerns about the $15 million purchase of 56,000 acres of forest land that would have been open to both logging and recreational use.

Republican lawmakers objected in November to using $4 million from the state's Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program to help finance the purchase of the property east of Rhinelander in northern Wisconsin known as the Pelican River Forest. The rest of the funding for the conservation easement would come from a federal grant.

Efforts to address lawmakers' concerns since objections were raised were unsuccessful, Sen. Mary Felzkowski, one of the Republicans who objected to the project, said Tuesday. She was among the 12 Republicans on the Legislature's Joint Finance Committee who voted to kill the project, while all four Democrats voted to fund it.

Felzkowski raised concerns about what effect it would have on northern Wisconsin's economy to remove that much land from future potential development. Republicans have long raised concerns about taking blocks of private land off the tax rolls through the state's stewardship program.

Enough is enough, Felzkowski said Tuesday.

Felzkowski faulted advocates of the project for not having conversations about concerns raised by snowmobilers, local communities and others who would be affected by the project. Felzkowski accused the state Natural Resources Board of voting to approve the project despite concerns raised by local communities that wanted some of the land available for future development.

Republican Rep. Mark Born, co-chair of the budget committee, said the state Department of Natural Resources should be ashamed for what they did on this. He accused the agency of attempting to shove this down the throat of locals and pretending like there were no concerns about the project.

A spokesperson for the agency did not immediately respond to a request for comment in reaction to the committee's actions and Born's accusations.

Under the committee's process, lawmakers can object to funding a project in secret. The objection triggers a meeting to review the project, but projects can be left in limbo and effectively killed with long delays before a meeting is called.

Felzkowski previously came forward as one of those who objected, and on Tuesday committee co-chair Sen. Howard Marklein said he was another.

Democratic Rep. Evan Goyke said he was thankful for the discussion about the project in open, calling it a little bit of sunshine.

But Born discounted that, saying concerns about the project have been publicly reported for months.

This wasnt like I needed to have some secret code to find this information," he said.

The Conservation Fund, a Virginia-based national land conservation group, bought the land that includes 16 parcels located mostly east of Rhinelander in Oneida County, but also in Forest and Langlade counties. The land straddles the Great Lakes and Mississippi River watersheds and is a link between the Oneida County Forest and Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest.

The Conservation Fund said at the time it bought the land in 2021 that it will protect wildlife habitat while continuing sustainable timber harvesting as well as recreational uses such as hunting and fishing.

Under the state's purchase plan, the land would have been left in an undeveloped state with public access for hunting, fishing, trapping and motorized recreation, such as snowmobiles and four-wheelers.

State officials have previously raised the possibility of launching a fundraising campaign or seeking landowner donations to come up with enough money to match the $10 million federal grant. The Conservation Fund has also said it may sell the property if the state DNR can't secure funding for the project.

Clint Miller, central midwest regional director at The Conservation Fund, said the decision not to fund the project was disappointing, but pledged to continue working with the state to complete it.
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JERUSALEM (AP)  Israelis ground to a halt for a nationwide moment of silence on Tuesday in remembrance of the 6 million Jewish victims of the Holocaust as a two-minute siren wailed across the country.

Vehicles and pedestrians halted on streets and highways as Israelis stood, heads bowed, in solemn remembrance for those systematically killed by Nazi Germany and its collaborators in World War II.
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Theres no question that parenting has gotten harder in this country.

Gun violence is now the leading killer of children in this country, a brutal fact made clearer with each new school shooting. Child care is out of reach for many parents, while the rising cost of college clouds the future for their kids. For many reasons, parents worry their kids lives will be more difficult than their own.

But if you ask the GOP and its shadowy network of far-right funders, what parents really want are vicious laws that attack LGBTQ kids, criminalize parents and doctors for providing medically necessary care, censor teachers and librarians, and allow the unrestricted proliferation of firearms.

House Republicans just passed an obscenely named Parents Bill of Rights that would ban books, restrict the gender and sexual identities of students, and allow a vocal minority of parents to impose their religious beliefs on the school curricula and budgets that everyone relies on.

Are Americans asking for this? Absolutely not.

In surveys, most Americans oppose anti-transgender legislation and the vast majority oppose banning books. Three-quarters of parents report feeling perfectly informed and satisfied about what their kids learn at school. Just 19% say that gender, race, and sexuality are being taught in a way that may conflict with their religious views.

Yet in addition to that House GOP measure, there are nearly 500 bills circulating in statehouses that would significantly curtail the civil rights of transgender youth  and even criminalize doctors and parents who care for them. Many states are also firing teachers, defunding libraries, and threatening to prosecute educators for teaching anything politicians dont like.

These extreme laws are deeply out of step with American families. But none of this is about serving families. Its about advancing the agenda of wealthy and hardliners  people who want to make our kids less educated, and less safe, to advance their own partisan agenda.

A 2022 survey of public school principals showed a sharp increase in attacks from an aggressive minority of activists, all based on disinformation and culture war issues. These attacks occur with the greatest frequency in politically competitive purple districts, which suggests deliberate coordination.

By whom? Recent investigative reporting offers some clues.

Mother Jones magazine recently published emails showing how fringe groups  like the so-called Child and Parental Rights Campaign, the anti-abortion Alliance Defending Freedom, the Family Policy Alliance and the Heritage Foundation  collaborate with conservative lawmakers to pass anti-trans bills across the country.

ProPublica published another investigation on the Teneo Network, an under-the-radar outfit chaired by Leonard Leo. Leo also leads the Federalist Society, the far-right legal outfit you can thank for the Supreme Court majority that gutted reproductive rights, among other bad rulings. He says his goal is to crush liberal dominance and end the national scourge of wokeism.

Members of Leos secretive group include Missouri Sen. Josh Hawley, Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance, New York Rep. Elise Stefanik, tech mogul Evan Baehr and many others. The billionaire-funded network connects hardline politicians to wealthy donors and legal support, among other services.

Needless to say, none of this does anything for parents.

A real Parents Bill of Rights would help working parents make ends meet, protect the rights of their kids regardless of their race, gender or sexuality, and actually do something about gun violence  the leading killer of kids nationwide.

Lets reclaim that idea from these wealthy, hard-right culture warriors and their radical, harmful ideologies.
Nearly six years after marching across the Grounds of the University of Virginia carrying flaming torches and shouting phrases including Blood and soil and Jews will not replace us, some of those marchers appear to have been hit with felony indictments for violating Virginia law against burning to intimidate.

These indictments were issued as part of a criminal investigation that is active and ongoing, Commonwealths Attorney Jim Hingeley said in a statement announcing the actions by an Albemarle County grand jury, which has jurisdiction over UVas Central Grounds.

Hingeley, who declined to respond to inquiries on Monday from The Daily Progress, did not name the criminal suspects or say how many there were. Likewise, Albemarle Circuit Court clerk Jon Zug was tight-lipped about the charges, which he said were sealed.

I cannot release sealed indictments until Ive gotten confirmation that the people have been served, Zug told The Daily Progress. At that time, Ill be able the release the names.

Ever since the Unite the Right rally-turned-riot on Aug. 12, 2017, which brought hordes of neo-Nazis and neo-Confederates onto the streets of Charlottesville and claimed the life of anti-racist counter-protester Heather Heyer, there have been efforts to punish the racists.

The murder conviction of James Alex Fields Jr., the Ohio man who struck Heyer with his Dodge Challenger, was not widely controversial. But the question of whether to criminally charge the torch-bearing marchers who traveled to Grounds the day before has proved more divisive.

Then-Commonwealths Attorney Robert Tracci asserted that Virginias law banning burning as intimidation  written to prevent the Ku Klux Klan from burning crosses to terrorize Black people  asserted that he couldnt prosecute because the law asserts that an object must be burned.

However, University of Virginia law professor Anne Coughlin noted that some of the torch-wielders surrounded and then struck some of the counter-protesters gathered at the statue of Thomas Jefferson in front of the Rotunda on Grounds on Aug. 11, 2017. Coughlin has long argued that failing to bring charges was dereliction of duty.

I still stand by what I said then, with nothing new to add, Coughlin told The Daily Progress on Monday in an email.

Virginia has no statute of limitations on felony charges. Conviction under the Virginia Code is rated as Class 6 felony and can bring a penalty up to five years in jail.
IHG Hotels & Resorts, a leading global hotel company, has signed a management agreement with Riyadh-based Al Woroud Real Estate to bring one of the worlds largest and most loved hotel brands, Holiday Inn Express, to the Kingdom.



The latest signing will strengthen the companys mainstream offering in Riyadh and provide an elevated, smart offering to cater to new international and Saudi guest segments, as part of Saudi Vision 2030 strategy for tourism.



Holiday Inn Express champions simple, smart travel by providing a launch pad for guests to make their next connection - the brand is highly suitable and well positioned for targeting new age smart travellers across business, leisure, and meetings segments.



Holiday Inn Express Riyadh will make a stunning first for the brand in The Kingdom with a fresh, bold and modern next generation design complemented by an unmatched location. The new-build hotel, located in the capitals central Olaya district, will comprise of 200 well-appointed rooms designed to meet the needs of value conscious leisure and business travelers when it opens its doors in 2026.



The hotel will embrace the brands hallmarks to deliver a hassle-free and efficient stay experience for its guests. The rooms will feature amenities such as high-speed wi-fi, smart TVs, premium bedding, and pillow options to ensure guests have a restful stay.



The hotel will also offer signature complimentary Express Start Breakfast, speedy check-in, and power showers to ensure guests are recharged for the day. With a reimagined food and beverage offering and flexible public spaces, Holiday Inn Express Riyadh will be a great fit for the market.



Holiday Inn Express Riyadh will also offer business facilities including two meeting rooms equipped with enhanced technology and will feature a swimming pool and a fully equipped on-site gym.



The hotel will be located in close proximity to King Fahd Road  Riyadhs major arterial road connecting the north and south of the capital and will have easy access from King Khalid International Airport.



Haitham Mattar, Managing Director, India, Middle East & Africa, IHG Hotels & Resorts said: As we continue to expand in Saudi Arabia in line with the countrys tourism strategy, we are delighted to sign a management agreement with Al Woroud Real Estate in dynamic and fast-moving Riyadh to bring a world-leading brand, Holiday Inn Express to the Kingdom.



The government has been progressively investing in the tourism sector and will bring ever more diverse guest segments to the market, across business, leisure, and spiritual tourism. Through the range of stay experiences offered by our brand portfolio, including Holiday Inn Express, we can provide guest experiences to suit the needs of all visitors coming to the Kingdom.



He added: The new Holiday Inn Express Riyadh will provide an elevated experience to smart travellers with next generation guest rooms and public spaces. We are confident that the hotel will be the first choice for an increasing number of travellers to The Kingdom who need a simple, engaging place to rest and get their work done.



Mohammed Al Balwi, Chief Executive Officer of Al Woroud Real Estate, said: We are pleased to partner with IHG Hotels & Resorts in bringing a flagship Holiday Inn Express hotel to Saudi Arabia and contribute to the capitals expanding hospitality landscape. Holiday Inn Express is a well-recognized brand globally and has a huge base of loyal guests who are looking for smart and efficient accommodation. We are confident that with the power of the brand, IHGs strong local expertise and global systems, the hotel will be a huge success.



As IHG Hotels & Resorts largest and fastest growing hotel brand, there are currently over 3000 Holiday Inn Express hotels, globally.



IHG Hotels & Resorts currently operates 37 hotels across five brands in Saudi Arabia, including: InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, Staybridge Suites, and voco, with 31 hotels in the development pipeline set to open within the next three to five years.  TradeArabia News Service
A 22-year-old man and a teenage boy were shot and killed at a party in Rockingham County near James Madison University on Saturday. The victims were not JMU students, but they did have connections to the university, school President Jonathan Alger said in a statement.

The Rockingham Sheriffs Office responded to a call of shots fired at an off-campus party early Saturday morning, Sheriff Bryan Hutcheson said in a statement. The incident occurred at the Redpoint Harrisonburg apartment complex, a mile and a half from campus, JMUs student newspaper reported.

The adult victim was identified as Dangelo Marquise Gracy of Rocky Mount, North Carolina. The other is an unidentified 17-year-old boy from Harrisonburg. They were declared dead at the scene.

No arrests have been made, Hutcheson said, calling it an isolated shooting stemming from an incident at the party.

Alger said that while neither victim was a student, they have connections with our local community and many across our campus will be impacted.

JMU offered its counseling center to students. The university also provides telehealth that includes individual counseling. Alger asked anyone with information about the event or witnesses to contact the Rockingham Sheriffs Office.

Please continue to support one another during these difficult moments and encourage those in need to utilize resources available, Alger said.
G-7 diplomats reject Chinese, N. Korean, Russian aggression View Photo

KARUIZAWA, Japan (AP)  Top diplomats from the Group of Seven wealthy democracies vowed a tough stance on Chinas increasing threats to Taiwan and on North Koreas unchecked tests of long-range missiles, while building momentum on ways to boost support for Ukraine and punish Russia for its invasion.

Russias war in Ukraine consumed much of the agenda Monday for the envoys gathered in this Japanese hot spring resort town for talks meant to pave the way for action by G-7 leaders when they meet next month in Hiroshima.

The world is at turning point on the fighting in Ukraine and must firmly reject unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force, and Russias aggression against Ukraine and its threats of the use of nuclear weapons, Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi told his colleagues, according to a Japanese summary.

For the American delegation, the meeting comes at a crucial moment in the worlds response to Russias invasion of Ukraine and efforts to deal with China, two issues that G-7 ministers from Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Canada, Italy and the European Union regard as potent challenges to the post-World War II rules-based international order.

A senior U.S. official traveling with Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters that the Biden administrations goal for the talks is to shore up support for Ukraine, including a major initiative on Ukraines energy infrastructure launched at last years G-7 gatherings in Germany, as well as to ensure the continued provision of military assistance to Kyiv.

Ramping up punishment against Russia, particularly through economic and financial sanctions that were first threatened by the G-7 in December 2021, before the invasion, will also be a priority, the official said.

Ukraine faces an important moment in coming weeks with Russias current offensive largely stalled and Ukraine preparing a counteroffensive. The U.S. official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss Blinkens priorities at the closed-door meetings, said there would be discussion about ways to deepen support for Ukraines long-term defense and deterrence capabilities. That might also improve Kyivs position for potential negotiations that could end the conflict on its terms.

The role of Japan  the only Asian member of the G-7  as chairman of this years talks provides an opportunity to discuss coordinated action on China. Leaders and foreign ministers of G-7 countries, most recently France and Germany, have recently concluded visits to China, and the diplomats in Karuizawa are expected to discuss their impressions of where the Chinese stand on numerous issues, including the war in Ukraine, North Korea, and Taiwan, which is a particular sore point in U.S.-Chinese relations.

At a private working dinner on Sunday night that was the diplomats first formal meeting, Hayashi urged continued dialogue with China on the many global challenges where participation from Beijing is seen as crucial. Among the Chinese interests that are intertwined with those of wealthy democracies are global trade, finance and climate efforts.

But the diplomats are also looking to address Chinas more aggressive stance in the region, particularly toward Taiwan, the self-governing democracy that Beijing claims as its own.

Hayashi told ministers that outside nations must continue building a constructive and stable relationship, while also directly expressing our concerns and calling for China to act as a responsible member of the international community, according to a summary of the closed-door dinner.

China recently sent planes and ships to simulate an encirclement of Taiwan. Beijing has also been rapidly adding nuclear warheads, taking a tougher line on its claim to the South China Sea and painting a scenario of impending confrontation.

The worry in Japan can be seen it its efforts to make a major break from its self-defense-only post-World War II principles, working to acquire preemptive strike capabilities and cruise missiles to counter growing threats.

Blinken had been due to visit Beijing in February, but the trip was postponed because of a Chinese spy balloon incident over U.S. airspace and has yet to be rescheduled.

Blinken met briefly with Chinas top diplomat, Wang Yi, on the sidelines of the Munich Security Forum, but high-level contacts between Washington and Beijing have become rare. Thus, Blinken will be seeking insight from his French and German counterparts on their interactions with the Chinese, the senior U.S. official said.

Despite indications, notably comments from French President Emmanuel Macron, that the G-7 is split over China, the official said there is shared worry among G-7 nations over Chinas actions. The official added that the foreign ministers would be discussing how to continue a coordinated approach to China.

Another senior State Department official, speaking to reporters on condition of anonymity to describe the closed-door meetings, said the G-7 would release a communique Tuesday that would make clear the groups strong unity over Russias war in Ukraine, China and the broader Indo-Pacific, particularly North Korea, the need to maintain the status quo in the Taiwan Strait, and to improve relations with Pacific island nations.

The official downplayed suggestions that fissures are emerging over China. G-7 members, the official said, want to work with China on common challenges, but will stand up against Chinese coercion and attempts to water down or circumvent international rules regarding trade and commerce.

The official said that in numerous recent diplomatic engagements with Chinese officials, G-7 members had stressed to Beijing that any supply of weapons to Russia for use in Ukraine would be met with serious consequences, as would attempts to change the status quo of Taiwan. The official said that European members now have a better understanding of how a roiling of the status quo would affect their interests, notably their economies.

North Korea is also a key area of worry for Japan and other neighbors in the region.

Since last year, Pyongyang has test-fired around 100 missiles, including intercontinental ballistic missiles that showed the potential of reaching the U.S. mainland and a variety of other shorter-range weapons that threaten South Korea and Japan.

Hayashi expressed grave concern over North Koreas launch of ballistic missiles with an unprecedented frequency and in unprecedented manners, including the launch in the previous week, and the G-7 Foreign Ministers strongly condemned North Koreas repeated launches of ballistic missiles, according to the summary.

By MATTHEW LEE and FOSTER KLUG

Associated Press
Italys contested bid to crack down on migrants sparks flap View Photo

ROME (AP)  Bogged down by leftist opposition amendments, Italys Senate on Tuesday delayed the start of a debate on the right-wing governments contested immigration crackdown, while a ministers warning to Italians about ethnic substitution triggered anger.

Agriculture and Food Sovereignty Minister Francesco Lollobrigida, made the controversial comment in a speech at a labor union gathering, Lollobrigida, who hails from Premier Giorgia Melonis Brothers of Italy, a party with neo-fascist roots, warned Italians against surrendering to the idea that they have fewer children and substitute themselves with someone else.

Lollobrigidas words are disgusting, said lawmaker Elly Schlein who leads the Democratic Party, Parliaments largest opposition force. She said the comments evoke the notion of white supremacy and hark back to the 1930s, when Benito Mussolinis Fascist regime rewarded Italians who had large families.

Meloni campaigned for election as Italys first far-right premier last fall on a platform that included a pledge to help Italians have children. The country has one of the worlds lowest birth rates, and a significant percentage of births are now registered to non native-born Italians. In Italys northern Emilia-Romagna region, for instance, 24% of births occur in families where both parents are migrants, according to the national statistics agency.

With the new proposed legislation, Meloni and her right-wing coalition government allies want to eliminate or vastly limit the special protection status Italian authorities have granted to thousands of asylum-seekers who are unlikely to have their applications approved. Holders of that status can stay in Italy for two years and legally work during that time.

But with the Democratic Party presenting hundreds of amendments, the Senate was forced to delay the start of debate till Wednesday. The lower Chamber of Deputies will take up the proposed crackdown after Senate passage. Melonis coalition has a comfortable majority in both chambers of Parliament.

Successive Italian governments have pressed their EU partners for years, largely in vain, to take in many of the hundreds of thousands of asylum-seekers who reach Italys Mediterranean shores. Most risk the dangerous, expensive sea voyage in hopes of finding family or work in northern Europe, but EU rules require them to apply for asylum in the country where they landed.

During a state visit to Poland this week, Italian President Sergio Mattarella, whose post is above the political fray, championed solidarity. No state, alone, can deal with such an epochal problem, he said in a speech. But the European Union can do it with coordinated and well-organized action.

And this  calls for a new policy of immigration and asylum within the Union, overcoming old rules that by now are prehistoric, Mattarella said in his blunt appeal.

Meloni unveiled the first stage of her governments approach to stemming unauthorized migration last month, when she led a Cabinet meeting in a Calabrian beach town near where dozens of migrants died in the shipwreck of a smugglers boat.

The Cabinet decreed a new crime  people smuggling that results in the death of migrants  punishable by up to 30 years in prison.

At least 91 people died  and 80 people survived  in the shipwreck just off Cutros beach, prompting questions over whether Italian rescue vessels should have gone to the aid of the boat as it was buffeted by high waves.

The signal that we wanted to give right away was that the smugglers cant do what they want and that in Italy you arrive in a legal way, Melonis minister for parliamentary relations, Luca Ciriani, said in an interview with Corriere della Sera newspaper published Tuesday.

But further measures were needed, he said, contending that Italys current rules on migrants were more permissive than those of other EU countries. Here, thanks to humanitarian protection, whoever should be expelled finds the way to stay, the minister was quoted as saying.

Among those demonstrating a few blocks from the Senate for the special protection status to stay was Mamadou Kouassi, a migrant from Ivory Coast. He recounted how he arrived in Italy after members of the Italian coast guard rescued him at sea in 2005.

We live in this country, and we want residency permits. We want to work and participate in the economy and development of this country, he said.

Melonis government already has made it more challenging for charity rescue boats to operate in the central Mediterranean. Such boats now are ordered to disembark their rescued passengers at mainland ports far from the area of the sea that has been most deadly for migrants.

___

AP Videojournalist Gianfranco Stara contributed to this report.

___

Follow APs coverage of global migration at https://apnews.com/hub/migration

By FRANCES DEMILIO

Associated Press
Tuolumne County Supervisors View Photo

Sonora, CA Changes being implemented by the State of California will have impacts on future development projects in Tuolumne County.

CAL Fire recently adopted new minimum fire regulations for its State Responsibility Area and other Very High Fire Hazard Severity zones. It includes a majority of the unincorporated parts of Tuolumne County (areas outside the City of Sonora).

The Tuolumne County Supervisors are concerned that the rules could thwart potential projects. For example, new roads constructed must sustain 75,000 pounds, and new driveways must sustain 40,000 pounds. Currently, the rule is 40,000 pounds for roads and there is no rule for driveways. The change is related to holding heavy fire equipment in the event of an incident.

The state is also directing that driveways for future developments only serve up to four units. The current county rule is six parcels, and it does not mention units.

In addition, undeveloped strategic ridgelines would be prohibited from development unless the project benefits fire safety and improves ridgelines.

During todays presentation to the board, Community Development Director Quincy Yaley noted that all of these directives will create new costs for developers. In some cases, it may prevent projects from happening. It will also take additional staff time to adjust the current county codes.

Board Chair Kathleen Haff voiced frustration about the states actions, noting, They are holding us hostage, and it is an unfunded mandate. Im tired of this, and Im just done.

Haff asked for County Counsel Sarah Carrillos input, and she replied that not implementing the changes would make the county liable to potential lawsuits, which could result in millions of dollars in costs by not following state law.

The various supervisors voiced concerns about the changes and it was noted that the Rural County Representatives of California lobbying group has made the issue a priority, and there could be legal action forthcoming from them.

The presentation today was just informational and no action was taken.

You can read more details about the new regulations in the report submitted to the board.
Saudi-led coalition releases additional Yemen war prisoners View Photo

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP)  A Saudi-led military coalition on Monday freed 104 more prisoners captured in Yemens war, a unilateral release that followed an organized prisoner swap amid renewed diplomatic efforts to halt the conflict.

The International Committee of the Red Cross said it flew two flights carrying a total of 96 released detainees from Saudi Arabias Abha International Airport to Sanaa, Yemens capital that has been held for years by the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels. Another flight carried eight freed prisoners from Abha to Aden, a port city held by forces allied to the Saudi-led coalition.

A statement from Brig. Gen. Turki al-Maliki, a spokesman for the Saudi-led coalition, acknowledged the release of 104 Houthi detainees.

A U.N.-brokered deal saw the release of over 700 detained Houthis, and more than 180 other prisoners, including Saudi and Sudanese troops fighting with the Saudi-led coalition. That three-day operation was overseen by the Red Cross and ended on Sunday.

The prisoner releases come as the Houthis and Saudi Arabia say they have made progress in negotiations to revive an expired cease-fire and embark on talks to settle the conflict. Mondays release was to help those efforts, the kingdom said.

Hans Grundberg, the U.N. envoy for Yemen, said Monday that We have not seen such a serious opportunity for making progress towards ending the conflict in eight years. But the tide could still turn unless the parties take bolder steps toward peace.

Many aspects of the truce continue to be implemented beyond its lifespan, Grundberg said. Yemen is experiencing the longest period of relative calm yet in this ruinous war.  However, this is not enough.

According to the state-run Saudi Press Agency, al-Maliki said it was part of efforts to stabilize the cease-fire and create an atmosphere of dialogue between the Yemeni parties to reach a comprehensive and sustainable political solution that ends the Yemeni crisis.

The Houthis say both sides will continue their talks after Eid al-Fitr, the holiday later this week that marks the end of the Islamic holy fasting month of Ramadan.
Suspected shooting attack in Jerusalem wounds 2 Israeli men View Photo

JERUSALEM (AP)  A Palestinian gunman shot and wounded two Israelis in Jerusalem on Tuesday, police said, the latest bloodshed in a year-long cycle of violence that shows no sign of abating.

Meanwhile, in the northern occupied West Bank, a focus of fighting for the past year, the Israeli military conducted an arrest raid in the Jenin refugee camp, prompting Palestinian militants to open fire. At least six Palestinians were wounded in the firefight, Palestinian health officials said, including a paramedic struck by shrapnel. Residents of the refugee camp reported that three Palestinians were arrested.

Tuesdays events followed weeks of heightened tensions in Jerusalem and the occupied West Bank during a rare convergence this month of the Jewish holiday of Passover and the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

Israeli police were searching for the suspected gunman who fled the scene in the east Jerusalem neighborhood of Sheikh Jarrah. The two Israelis, shot while inside their car, were treated for moderate wounds. Purported security footage from the incident shows the assailant rushing toward their parked car and opening fire at close range before bolting.

Tensions in Israel and the occupied West Bank surged after an Israeli police raid on Jerusalems most sensitive holy site, the compound home to the Al-Aqsa Mosque. The mosque sits on a hilltop compound known to Jews as the Temple Mount and to Muslims as the Noble Sanctuary, revered as the third-holiest site in Islam and the holiest in Judaism.

The raid set off outrage in the Muslim world and prompted Palestinian militants to fire salvos of rockets at Israel from southern Lebanon and the Gaza Strip earlier this month. The Israeli military struck sites linked to the Palestinian group Hamas in those areas in retaliation.

Palestinian attacks against Israelis have killed at least 20 people, including one soldier, since the start of the year. At least 92 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire so far this year, according to a tally by The Associated Press. At least half of them have been affiliated with militant groups.
Reclusive Taliban leader releases end-of-Ramadan message View Photo

ISLAMABAD (AP)  The reclusive top leader of the Taliban released a message Tuesday lauding the changes in Afghanistan since the Taliban takeover and the measures they imposed after seizing the country following two decades of war.

The statement from Hibatullah Akhundzada was made public ahead of the Eid al-Fitr holiday later this week that marks the end of the fasting Muslim month of Ramadan.

Akhundzada, an Islamic scholar, rarely appears in public or leaves the Taliban heartland in Afghanistans southern Kandahar province. He surrounds himself with other religious scholars and allies who oppose education and work for women.

In recent months, Akhundzada appears to have taken a stronger hand in directing domestic policy, banning girls education after the sixth grade and barring Afghan women from public life and work, especially for non-governmental organizations and the United Nations.

The message was distributed in five languages: Arabic, Dari, English, Pashto and Urdu. The Taliban, Akhundzada says, have taken significant reform measures in culture, education, the economy, media and other fields.

The bad intellectual and moral effects of the 20-year occupation are about to finish, he said and extolled living in the light of Sharia, or Islamic law.

This, he instructed Afghans, would lead to the well-being of our world and the hereafter, as well as eternal happiness, success and salvation of our society.

Despite initial promises of a more moderate rule than during their previous stint in power in the 1990s, the Taliban have imposed harsh measures since seizing Afghanistan in August 2021 as U.S. and NATO forces were pulling out.

The Taliban have also barred women from public spaces, like parks and gyms, and cracked down on media freedoms. The measures have triggered a fierce international uproar, increasing the countrys isolation at a time when its economy has collapsed  and worsening a humanitarian crisis.

Akhundzada reiterated his call for other countries to stop interfering in Afghanistans internal affairs, and said Afghans should not rely on others for rebuilding and reconstruction efforts. He stressed that the main goal of the Taliban struggle was implementing Islamic law in Afghanistan.

Michael Kugelman, the deputy director of the Asia program and senior associate for South Asia at the Wilson Center, said Akhundzadas message was likely an attempt to unite Afghans, including factions feuding within the Taliban, by invoking their religious ideology.

It also telegraphs defiance directed at the international community. In effect, we dont welcome your criticism and we dont need your largesse, said Kugelman.

In highlighting Taliban efforts to combat poppy production and an anti-corruption campaign, the message may also have been an attempt to shore up Taliban legitimacy in the eyes of the Afghans, said Kugelman.

Tuesdays message came just days after the Taliban shared a rare, months-old audio message from Akhundzada in which he purportedly says that Afghanistan would be ruined without justice handed out by the countrys new rulers.
Oklahoma officials accused of talk of killing journalists View Photo

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP)  Oklahomas governor is seeking the resignation of four county officials after a newspapers audio recording apparently captured some of them complaining about two of the papers journalists and knowing hit men and where two holes are dug.

A portion of the recording was released by the paper, and it also appears to capture one of the four making racist comments about Black people.

Gov. Kevin Stitt said Sunday he was seeking the resignations of McCurtain County Sheriff Kevin Clardy and three other county officials: sheriffs Capt. Alicia Manning, District 2 Commissioner Mark Jennings and Jail Administrator Larry Hendrix.

I am both appalled and disheartened to hear of the horrid comments made by officials in McCurtain County, Stitt said in a statement. There is simply no place for such hateful rhetoric in the state of Oklahoma, especially by those that serve to represent the community through their respective office.

The McCurtain Gazette-News released portions of an audio recording following a March 6 county commission meeting in which Clardy, Manning and Jennings appear to discuss reporters Bruce and Chris Willingham. Jennings tells Clardy and Manning I know where two deep holes are dug if you ever need them, and the sheriff responded, Ive got an excavator.

Jennings also said hes known two or three hit men in Louisiana, adding theyre very quiet guys.

In the recording, Jennings also appears to complain about not being able to hang Black people, saying: They got more rights than we got.

The Associated Press could not immediately verify the authenticity of the recording. None of the four returned telephone calls or emails from The Associated Press on Monday seeking comment.

A spokeswoman for the FBIs office in Oklahoma City said the agencys policy is not to confirm or deny any ongoing investigation. Phil Bacharach, a spokesman for Attorney General Gentner Drummond, said the agency had received an audio recording and is investigating the incident, but declined to comment further.

More than 100 people gathered outside the McCurtain County Courthouse in Idabel on Monday, with many of them calling for the sheriff and other county officials to resign.

Bruce Willingham, the longtime publisher of the McCurtain Gazette-News, said the recording was made March 6 when he left a voice-activated recorder inside the room after a county commissioners meeting because he suspected the group was continuing to conduct county business after the meeting had ended in violation of the states Open Meeting Act. Chris Willingham, a reporter at the paper, is Bruce Willinghams son.

I talked on two different occasions to our attorneys to make sure I wasnt doing anything illegal, Bruce Willingham said.

Bruce Willingham said he believes the local officials were upset about stories weve run that cast the sheriffs office in an unfavorable light, including the death of Bobby Barrick, a Broken Bow, Oklahoma, man who died at a hospital in March 2022 after McCurtain County deputies shot him with a stun gun. The newspaper has filed a lawsuit against the sheriffs office seeking body camera footage and other records connected to Barricks death.

Bruce Willingham said he has also turned over his audio recordings to the FBI and the Oklahoma Attorney Generals Office and added he has had several conversations with federal investigators.

Joey Senat, a journalism professor at Oklahoma State University, said he was shocked to hear the comments made in the recording, especially in light of recent killings of journalists in the U.S., including the arrest last year of a Las Vegas-area elected official accused of fatally stabbing a veteran newspaper reporter who had been investigating him.

The whole conversation seemed deplorable, Senat said. I was shocked as I assume most people were not only about the comments about journalists, but the racist comments regarding African Americans. Joking doesnt excuse that.

Senat said under Oklahoma law, the recording would be legal if it were obtained in a place where the officials being recorded did not have a reasonable expectation of privacy.

McCurtain County is in far southeast Oklahoma, bordering both Arkansas and Texas, in a part of the state often referred to as Little Dixie, because of the influence in the area from white Southerners who migrated there after the Civil War.

With its rolling, forested hills in the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains, the area has become a tourism hotbed attracting a steady stream of visitors from the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

State Rep. Eddy Dempsey, a Republican who represents the area in the Oklahoma House, said the recorded comments dont reflect the values of his constituents and echoed Stitts call for the four people involved in the conversation to resign.

All my life, weve always said we dont get enough recognition in southeast Oklahoma, Dempsey said. But we dont need this kind of recognition.

By SEAN MURPHY

Associated Press Writer
Kerrville, TX (78028)

Today

Considerable cloudiness. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 83F. Winds S at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms in the evening, then mainly cloudy overnight with thunderstorms likely. A few storms may be severe. Low 56F. SSE winds shifting to NW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 80%.
17 men arrested in California Sikh community shootings View Photo

YUBA CITY, Calif. (AP)  Authorities in Northern California on Monday said they had arrested more than a dozen men from two warring criminal syndicates whose violent rivalry they say was responsible for a mass shooting at a Sikh temple and a brutal sword attack at a parade in 2018.

Sutter County District Attorney Jennifer Dupre said the two syndicates were responsible for multiple shootings where 11 people were shot, including five people at a Sikh temple in Stockton last year and two more victims at a temple in Sacramento last month.

None of the victims died. Dupre said all of the men arrested are part of Californias Sikh community and were members of one of two rival groups whose feud was fueled by intense personal connections.

This started out as one group, and one faction broke off, and since then they have been rivals trying to outdo each other. Mainly they show up places and try to shoot each other, Dupre said, comparing it to the U.S. Civil War where brothers were fighting against brothers.

Dupre said the arrests are not related to the murders last year of a Sikh family in the San Joaquin Valley, which included the killings of an 8-month-old baby, the babys parents and an uncle.

Dupre said the violence began in 2018 at the annual Sikh Parade in Yuba City, one of the largest South Asian festivals held outside of the Indian subcontinent. There, Dupre said, a man was beaten so hard with a sword that it broke. The violence soon escalated to shootings, including one at a wedding party in 2021.

The rash of violence attracted the attention of the Yuba-Sutter Narcotic and Gang Enforcement Task Force, which launched an investigation with assistance from the FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and various other local, state and federal law enforcement agencies.

The investigation intensified in March, when authorities learned of potential violence at a Sikh parade in Sacramento. Dupre said police stopped two cars before they reached the parade, arresting seven people and seizing four handguns and two other guns with large capacity magazines.

A shooting still happened at the parade, injuring two people, but Dupre said a mass casualty incident was prevented.

If those weapons had gotten into the parade, it could have been a bloodbath, Dupre said.

Altogether, Dupre said police seized 41 guns during the investigation, including a weapon described as a machine gun.

Authorities arrested 17 people, including Karandeep Singh, Pardeep Singh, Pavittar Singh, Husandeep Singh, Sahajpreet Singh, Harkirat Singh, Tirath Ram, Dharamvir Singh, Jobanjit Singh, Gurvinder Singh, Nitish Kaushal, Gurminder Singh Kang, Devender Singh, Karambir Gill, Rajeev Ranjan, Jobanpreet Singh and Singh Dhesi.

Dupre said five other people  Amandeep Singh, Harmandeep Singh, Gursharn Singh, Grucharan Singh and Jaskaran Singh  have not yet been arrested.

Dupre said the men have not had a court appearances yet. Its not clear if they have attorneys yet who can speak on their behalf.

Yuba City, a city of nearly 70,000 people along the Feather River just north of Sacramento, has a large Sikh community. Locals often refer to the area as mini Punjab, named after the Indian state where many Sikhs live. Each November, tens of thousands of people travel to the city for Nagar Kirtan, one of the largest Sikh gatherings in the U.S.

Sikhs also have a large presence throughout Californias Central Valley. The Sacramento County Assistant Sheriff said seven of the shootings occurred in Sacramento County within the past year.

The investigation in this particular case and the charges that have been brought forth does not in any way reflect or represent the vibrant Sikh community that are such an important and vital part of the greater community in this region, Sacramento County District Attorney Thien Ho said.

By ADAM BEAM

Associated Press
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (AP)  Michelle Yeoh says she is looking for new challenges including as a producer, as she credited perseverance, hard work and passion for her historic Oscar win last month.

The 60-year-old became the first Asian to win the Academy Award for best actress for her performance as a laundromat owner in Everything Everywhere All at Once. The movie won a total of seven awards, including best picture.

Returning to her native Malaysia to celebrate her mother's birthday, Yeoh said she felt a sense of relief after clinching the award.

It was a roller coaster ride that started last year when the movie first came out. It was a whole year of not knowing, wanting, hoping, wishing, she told a news conference. During the journey, everyone was asking, Do you want the Oscar? I said, hell, yes, of course I want the Oscar. Who doesn't? I am not going to beat around the bush and say no because it represents so much to so many of us.

Yeoh reiterated that her Oscar victory was a beacon of hope for Asian women.

It shows us it can be done and all of you can do it, she said.

Yeoh, who started her career in Hong Kong before becoming a Hollywood star, said she was blessed to have been able to work on diverse movies and with forward thinking filmmakers to fight for what I truly believe in  representation, diversity, especially empowerment of women. She said she refuses to be boxed in stereotypical roles but believes in pushing the envelope in her career.

While she has no interest in directing, she said she may branch out again as a producer.

Directors have no life. I love my life too much, she said in jest. I love producing. I have produced before and now I can start to do so again  now I am able to branch out more because people have started to listen, and appreciate what you can bring forward. As an actor, I love what I can do. I am so lucky to be able to say its not a job, it's really a passion.

Yeoh said she will be heading back to London to complete the filming of Wicked, a two-part movie adaptation of the hit Broadway musical directed by Jon Chu. She said she hopes to return to Asia in the next few months.

I am always looking for a challenge," Yeoh said. "I believe there is so much to do in our part of the world. All of us collectively. Don't isolate yourself. Don't feel that I must always tell my story. We are collaborators, we are storytellers. Let's work together and do great things.
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP)  As Ralph Yarl struggled to come to grips with being shot after going to the wrong house to pick up his younger brothers, the white Kansas City, Missouri, homeowner who shot the Black teenager turned himself in and was released on bond Tuesday.

Andrew Lester, 84, surrendered at the Clay County Detention Center a day after being charged with first-degree assault and armed criminal action. He posted bond Tuesday afternoon. Some civil rights leaders urged a hate crime charge, but Clay County Prosecuting Attorney Zachary Thompson said first-degree assault is a higher-level crime with a longer sentence  up to life in prison.

Lee Merritt, an attorney for the Yarl family, said the case should qualify as a hate crime.

Ralph Yarl was shot because he was armed with nothing but other than his Black skin, he said.

As Yarl recovered from his wounds, supporters, civil rights leaders and politicians rallied in downtown Kansas City to call for justice for the 16-year-old and a stronger effort to improve racial relations in Missouri and the U.S.

Speakers urged the crowd to support Yarl, to fight for justice and to remove politicians who pass discriminatory laws and support gun rights.

Many carried signs saying, He is only 16, and Is this what Kansas City has come to? Stop gun violence.

Merritt said the family is also angry that police held Lester for only two hours after the shooting, when they legally could have held him for 24.

If they would have held him for 24 hours, they would have held him long enough to get the statement from the kid with a bullet in his brain," Merritt said. They got the statement the very next day.

During an interview Tuesday with CBS Mornings, Yarl's mother, Cleo Nagbe, said her son is in good spirits but that the trauma remains evident. She said he is able to communicate mostly when he feels like it, but mostly he just sits there and stares, and the buckets of tears just rolls down his eyes.

You can see that he is just replaying the situation over and over again, and that just doesnt stop my tears either, she said.

The shooting happened about 10 p.m. Thursday. Police Chief Stacey Graves said that Yarls parents asked him to pick up his twin brothers at a home on 115th Terrace.

Yarl, an honors student and all-state band member, mistakenly went to 115th Street  a block away from where he meant to be. When he rang the bell, Lester came to the door and shot Yarl in the forehead  then shot him again, in the right forearm.

Lester faces arraignment Wednesday afternoon. He does not yet have a listed attorney.

Lester told police he lives alone and was scared to death when he saw a Black male on the porch and thought someone was trying to break in, according to the probable cause statement.

No words were exchanged before the shooting, but afterward, as Yarl got up to run, he heard Lester yell, Dont come around here, the statement said.

Yarl ran to multiple homes asking for help before finding someone who would call the police, the statement said.

James Lynch was the neighbor who found Yarl. He didnt respond to an interview request, but his wife confirmed an NBC News report that said Lynch heard shouting and saw Yarl banging on the door of another home.

I heard somebody screaming, Help, help, Ive been shot! Lynch, who is white, told NBC. The father of three ran out and found Yarl covered in blood. Lynch checked his pulse and, when another neighbor came out with towels, helped stem the bleeding until paramedics arrived.

The shooting outraged many in Kansas City and across the country. President Joe Biden was among those demanding justice. He spoke with Yarl on Monday and invited him to the White House.

No parent should have to worry that their kid will be shot after ringing the wrong doorbell, Biden tweeted. Weve got to keep up the fight against gun violence.

Thompson said Monday that there was a racial component to the shooting. He did not elaborate. Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Alexander Higginbotham said in an email to The Associated Press on Tuesday that there is not a racial element to the legal charges that were filed.

Merritt said the Yarl family met privately with Thompson and asked why he said the case had a racial aspect, without elaboration. The prosecutor said he was echoing the words from law enforcement that obviously theres a racial dynamic at play in this case, said Merritt, who called the answer shallow.

About 150 supporters attended Tuesday's rally at police headquarters, chanting Justice for Ralph and demanding that the U.S. Department of Justice investigate. Lester, the activists said, received preferential treatment because he is white.

Bishop Frank Douglas of the Church of God in Christ, said the U.S. is experiencing its own version of apartheid and that if the shooter had been Black, it would have been lynching time.

We are putting a spotlight to whats been going on for over 100 years," Douglas said. "We got emancipation but we didnt get love.

Karen Allman, 61, said she had lived in Lesters neighborhood for 32 years, although she didnt know him or hear the shooting. She said she attended Wednesdays rally to support Yarl and his family because if we dont speak out, its going to keep happening.

I dont know what they go through on a day-to-day basis being Black, said Allman, who is white. But I do know if we dont stand with them, they dont have a chance of having any of this fixed.

The assault charge against Lester carries a penalty of up to life in prison. Lester also was charged with armed criminal action, which has a penalty range of 3-15 years in prison.

Charging Lester with a hate crime would have potentially meant a shorter sentence if he's convicted, experts said.

Washington University School of Law professor Peter Joy said the state hate crime law is used only to enhance low-level felony or misdemeanor charges.

What the prosecutor did was charge (Lester) with the highest degree of felony they could charge him with, Joy said.

Legal experts believe Lester's lawyers will claim self-defense under Missouris Stand Your Ground law, which allows for using deadly force if a person is in fear for their life. Missouri is among roughly 30 states with such statutes.

Robert Spitzer, a professor emeritus of political science at the State University of New York, Cortland, whose research focuses on gun policy and politics, said the Missouri law provides wide latitude for people to use lethal force.

St. Louis defense attorney Nina McDonnell agreed. She said prosecutors have a strong case but that the Stand Your Ground law defense is a huge hurdle to overcome.

The defendant was in his house and has expressed that he was in fear," McDonnell said.

___

Salter reported from OFallon, Missouri. Heather Hollingsworth in Mission, Kansas, contributed to this report.
400tmax/Getty Images/iStockphoto

The body of a missing Texas woman was found in Mexico on Friday, April 14, according to a report from Valley Central. The 20-year-old woman, Bionce Jazmin Amaya Cortez, was from Mission, which is in the Rio Grande Valley near McAllen.

Officials found the remains of the missing woman in the community of El Verde in the northeastern state of Nuevo Leon. Forensic results revealed that she died of deep injuries to her head, cervical spinal cord, and chest. Valley Central reported that investigators collected DNA samples and are currently pending results.
Polly Anna Rocha

Those leaving work on Monday, April 17, in San Antonio were met with closed lanes after a sinkhole opened up on the Westside. The city's public works department responded to the intersection of Culebra Road and General McMullen Avenue near St. Mary's University and closed the eastbound lanes so crews could begin repairs.

While there is no concrete information on when the sinkhole formed, San Antonio Police told KENS that it formed from the collapse of a storm drain. Police reported that a dump truck fell into the hole and bounced back out. Officials said the sinkhole was about 10 feet by 20 feet as of Monday afternoon, according to KENS.
A 42-year-old Sweet Home resident known for claiming the court system has no authority over her has been sentenced for sex crimes that victimized two young girls.

Alanna Nicole Partin was found guilty on four charges of first-degree sexual abuse in a December jury trial in Linn County Circuit Court.

Of the four counts of first-degree sexual abuse, two stemmed from each of the victims. Because the crimes occurred in one course of events in each case  though different body parts were violated  the four counts were merged into two.

Partin was sentenced to 75 months for each count, 150 months overall, a total of 12 years in prison.

The impacts of sexual abuse are long-lasting, prosecutor Conor McCahill said during the sentencing hearing Monday, April 17.

These little girls will grow up, and theyve had something stolen from them, McCahill said. Theyve had their innocence ripped away; theyve had to come to court and testify about things that nobody should have to.  But they were very brave and told this court what was done to them.

Around two dozen people attended the sentencing, including Partin supporters. Having heard some had brought signage with them, the judge ordered no signs could be displayed in the courtroom.

Defense attorney Jason Thompson argued for a new trial prior to sentencing, citing what he called the irregularity of the proceedings. He alleged jury instructions werent followed and juror knowledge of Partins status as a convicted felon tainted the outcome.

Judge Rachel Kittson-MaQatish denied the motion.

Already sentenced to 36 months in prison in connection with a weapons charge, Partin appeared for sentencing wearing a Department of Corrections jumpsuit. During the proceeding, she shared huddled whispers and notes with Thompson, but she did not directly address the court.

Thompson said despite a record of good behavior, Partins transgender status will keep her from utilizing skills such as her mechanical abilities while incarcerated at Oregon State Correctional Institution.

Prosecutors previously said there were other suspects in the case. A trial has been set for one individual, prosecutors confirmed.

The crimes occurred in 2019; one victim was younger than 9 at the time and the other was younger than 5.

When Partin initially appeared in court under the charges, through her attorneys, she repeated a claim that she is a Minnesota corporation and does not recognize the name she was charged under.

Although convicted on the sexual abuse counts, Partin was found not guilty in December of first-degree rape and first-degree sodomy. Those charges fall under Jessicas Law, carrying mandatory minimum sentences of 25 years.

Partin has four cases under appeal in Linn County and is set for sentencing in another case in Benton County Circuit Court, according to court records.

In Linn County, she was convicted of criminal driving while suspended or revoked and three counts of failure to appear in a case originating in January 2019; felony attempt to elude by vehicle, interfering with a police officer, and criminal driving while suspended or revoked from a case originating in May 2019; criminal driving while suspended or revoked and resisting arrest in another case that originated in May 2019; and strangulation, menacing, unlawful use of a weapon and felony fourth-degree assault in a case from November.

In Benton County, Partin is scheduled for sentencing in June on charges of felon in possession of a firearm, interfering with a police officer, unlawful possession of a firearm and failure to carry and present a drivers license from an incident that occurred in November 2018.
AaronP/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images

Southwest Airlines has resumed service after halting flights nationwide as the carrier said it was dealing with "intermittent technology issues" on Tuesday, April 18. The Federal Aviation Administration tweeted about the pause in service around 9:30 a.m.

"As a result of the intermittent technology issues that we experienced, we should hopefully be resuming our operation as soon as possible," The Dallas-based airline wrote on Twitter. "We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause, but we're hoping to get everyone going ASAP."
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BERN, Switzerland (AP)  Nearly 300 Tyrannosaurus rex bones that were dug up from three sites in the United States and assembled into a single skeleton sold Tuesday at an auction in Switzerland for 4.8 million francs ($5.3 million), below the expected price.

Crafted into an open-mouth pose, the T. rex skeleton measuring 11.6 meters long (38 feet long) and 3.9 meters high (12.8 feet) high came in under the anticipated range of 5 million to 8 million francs when it went under the hammer at the Koller auction house in Zurich.

Koller had said Tuesdays sale would be the first time such a T. rex skeleton would go up for auction in Europe. The composite skeleton, featuring 293 bones, was a showpiece of an auction that featured some 70 lots, and the skull was set up next to the auctioneer's podium throughout.

It could be that it was a composite  that could be why the purists didn't go for it, Karl Green, the auction houses marketing director, said by phone. It's a fair price for the dino. I hope it's going to be shown somewhere in public.

Green did not identify the buyer, but said it was a European private collector. Including the buyer's premium and fees, the sale came to 5.5 million Swiss francs (about $6.1 million), Koller said.

Promoters said the composite T. rex, dubbed Trinity, was built from specimens retrieved from three sites in the Hell Creek and Lance Creek formations of Montana and Wyoming between 2008 and 2013.

Koller said original bone material comprised more than half of the restored skeleton. The auction house said the skull was particularly rare and also remarkably well-preserved.

"When dinosaurs died in the Jurassic or Cretaceous periods, they often lost their heads during deposition (of the remains into rocks). In fact, most dinosaurs are found without their skulls," said Nils Knoetschke, a scientific adviser who was quoted in the auction catalog. But here we have truly original Tyrannosaurus skull bones that all originate from the same specimen.

T. rex roamed the Earth between 65 million and 67 million years ago. A study published two years ago in the journal Science estimated that about 2.5 billion of the dinosaurs ever lived. Hollywood movies such as the blockbuster Jurassic Park franchise have added to the public fascination with the carnivorous creature.

The two areas the bones for Trinity came from were also the source of other T. rex skeletons that were auctioned off, according to Koller: Chicagos Field Museum of Natural History bought Sue for $8.4 million over a quarter-century ago, and Stan sold for nearly $32 million three years ago.

Two years ago, a triceratops skeleton that the Guinness World Records declared as the world's biggest, known as Big John, was sold for 6.6 million euros ($7.2 million) to a private collector at a Paris auction.
Behold: The 62,000-Mile-High Plasma Waterfall That Erupted From The Sun Science Alert

Climate/Environment

Banks Say Theyre Acting on Climate, But Continue to Finance Fossil Fuel Expansion Inside Climate News

Unprecedented sea level rise seen on Gulf Coast, East Coast as waters warm New Orleans Times-Picayune

This IMF staff note on adaptation is really something. Id paraphrase: 1/ Itll probably just be like, doing whats done in slightly warmer places. 2/ Its like any other societal challenge that requires technological difusion, innovation and behavioural change pic.twitter.com/XsIVxxfuDV

Water

What might Colorado River cuts mean for states and their water supplies? NBC News

Phoenix hopes to turn wastewater into drinking water by 2030 AZFamily

The Elephant on the Banks of the Colorado River Counterpunch. Arizona vs. Navajo Nation.
(Natural News) A bill introduced in the California State Legislature would allow the states worst criminals  those sentenced to death or life without parole  to walk out of prison if they have already served 20 years.

The bill, Senate Bill 94, was authored by Democratic Sen. Dave Cortese, who is known for writing a prior bill that would have decreased the punishment for knowingly infecting someone with HIV. (Related: More people are rapidly leaving crime-ridden, high-cost cities like New York, San Francisco and Chicago.)

SB 94 specifies that criminals convicted of murder with special circumstances before June 5, 1990 and sentenced to death or life without parole will have the opportunity to speak with a public defender about petitioning the state for recall and resentencing.

The bill provides courts with the judicial discretion to modify the sentences of successful petitioners. This means criminals could be given lesser sentences, recent changes to laws could be applied to their sentences, or in other instances, their sentences could be vacated entirely.

Criminals who could be beneficiaries of this measure, if it passes, include people convicted of first-degree murder with special circumstances. These include murderers who killed multiple people and murderers who killed in concert with another heinous crime like rape, robbery, kidnapping or torture.

SB 94 already has five other co-authors attached to the bill, all Democrats, two of whom are in the State Assembly and the other three are in the State Senate.

Bill heavily criticized by both liberals and conservatives

Fortunately, SB 94 has been widely panned not just by Republicans, but by Democrats as well.

It is a slap in the face to victims who were told that these people would go away for life without the possibility of parole, said State Assembly Minority Leader James Gallagher, who also serves as vice chair of the Assembly Judiciary Committee.

Gallagher added that the bill is part of an incremental push to empty out the states prisons, which first began when state Democrats opposed the death penalty.

The death penalty still technically exists in the state, but no one has been put to death in the state in 17 years. In 2019, Gov. Gavin Newsom ordered a moratorium on executions in the state, but over 600 inmates still remain on death row.

And with Californias track record right now, these are [the] people who are going to end up being released, [those] who committed murders, rapes, unfathomable crimes against Californians, added Gallagher. Its a dangerous and unthinkable policy.

Deputy District Attorney for Los Angeles Jonathan Hatami said the state politicians who support this bill should really be ashamed of themselves.

Im a Democrat, and Im 100 percent against this. Im also a dad and a caring human being, said Hatami. People who brutally torture and murder children should not be released. Period. Thats inhumane to all the children who cant fight for themselves.

Kathy Cady, a California lawyer and former prosecutor, argued that SB 94 is a slap in the face to victims and their families. Furthermore, the proposal could be in violation of Marsys Law, the California Victims Bill of Rights of 2008, which guarantees the rights of victims in the state.

If the resentencing process is done without the opportunity for the criminals victims to be heard, it would be a violation of their rights under Marsys Law, which stipulates that victims have a right to be heard at sentencing and resentencing hearings.

Victims of crime are entitled to finality in their criminal cases, said Cady. This prolonged suffering of crime victims and their families must come to an end.

Find the latest news coming out of the so-called Golden State at CaliforniaCollapse.news.

Watch this clip from Fox Business as anchor Guy Benson discusses why liberal cities are facing skyrocketing crime waves.

This video is from the News Clips channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Cash App co-founder STABBED to death in San Francisco, ignored by bystanders.

Oakland radical anti-police activist dies after being violently robbed.

Federal judge wont let San Francisco clear homeless camps from sidewalks, serving up epic dish of karma.

Pro-pedo California releases child rapists, puts perverts back on the street to molest again.

POLL: San Francisco residents most likely to move to different city due to high crime rate and homelessness.

Sources include:

FoxNews.com

WashingtonExaminer.com

CaliforniaGlobe.com

NPR.org

Brighteon.com
(Natural News) China has ramped up military drills near the coast of Taiwan as international leaders take neutral position in the conflict between the East Asian nations.

The U.S. has long been a key ally of Taiwan, supplying it with billions of dollars in weaponry to deter a possible Chinese invasion. But other countries continue to sever relations with Taiwan and take a position of neutrality on its independence.

Just recently, French President Emmanuel Macron signaled that his country would stay out of a conflict between China and Taiwan. Macron said France does not want to get involved in bloc vs. bloc conflict between the U.S. and China.

Meanwhile, China recently simulated a blockade of the island-nation that would slow down or prevent U.S. intervention. The drills came just two weeks after Taiwans leadership met with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Ca.)

The exercises were similar to those conducted by China last August, when it launched missile strikes on targets in the seas around Taiwan in retaliation for then-Speaker Nancy Pelosis visit to the island.

The Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) declared on April 10 that it is ready to fight after completing three days of large-scale combat exercises around Taiwan. The combat readiness patrols named Joint Sword were meant as a warning to self-governing Taiwan, which China claims as its own.

The theaters troops are ready to fight at all times and can fight at any time to resolutely smash any form of Taiwan independence and foreign interference attempts, the PLA announced.

Military experts say the exercises serve both as intimidation and as an opportunity for Chinese troops to practice sealing off Taiwan by blocking sea and air traffic, an important strategic option the Chinese military might pursue in the event it uses military force to take Taiwan.

America plans to use the Philippines in proxy war against China

A week before the PLAs announcement of its readiness to fight, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. named four additional bases that the U.S. will now have access to under an existing defense agreement to expand military cooperation.

The four sites will be in Isabela and Cagayan, on the island of Luzon, facing north toward Taiwan, and in Palawan, near the disputed Spratly Islands in the South China Sea. (Related: Philippines gives American forces access to 4 additional military bases.)

These new locations are on top of five bases the U.S. currently has access to, bringing the total number of bases the American forces can rotate through in the Philippines to nine. The expansion is seen as a significant step in the U.S. effort to build up its military assets in the region to prepare for a future war with China.

Manila-based think tank Integrated Development Studies Institute (IDSI) earlier warned of the possibility that the Philippines would get involved in such war between the two giants.

The U.S. will fight a proxy war against China up to the last Filipino  just like what it did to us in World War II and what the U.S. did in Ukraine from 2014 up to now, IDSI noted.

Over 100,000 Ukrainians have already been killed; with the security and peace, economy and democracy of Ukraine all destroyed.

Read more news about global conflicts at WWIII.news.

Watch this video about Chinas military drills near the coast of Taiwan.

This video is from the Ruth Mackenzies channel on Brigteon.com.

More related stories:

Taiwan is the real China. The peoples Republic of China is an illegitimate dictatorship.

ANALYSIS: Why China LOSES any escalation involving Taiwan and the United States Navy.

Russia, China moving closer to formal alliance as world inches closer to global war.

The war between China and the United States has already begun, and America is the battleground.

Sources include:

100PercentFedUp.com

Aljazeera.com

Brighteon.com
(Natural News) In the digital age, Americans Fourth Amendment right to privacy has completely vanished, as confirmed (again) by Twitter boss and billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk.

Musk, who bought Twitter last year for $44 billion, said that the federal government had complete and full access to all Twitter users accounts.

During an extensive interview with Tucker Carlson on Fox News, scheduled to air on Monday and Tuesday evenings, Musk revealed some astonishing allegations. He expressed shock at discovering that the government had complete access to private communications on his platform.

Musk, a billionaire entrepreneur, stated that he was not previously aware of this fact until he joined the company, and he was surprised by the level of monitoring of social media by government agencies, the UKs Daily Mail reported.

The degree to which government agencies effectively had full access to everything that was going on on Twitter blew my mind, Musk told Carlson. I was not aware of that.

Would that include peoples DMs? asked Carlson.

Yes, Musk somberly replied.

Musk also sounded the alarm about emerging artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots.

AI is more dangerous than, say, mismanaged aircraft design or production maintenance, or bad car production in the sense that it has the potential  however small one may regard that probability, but it is non-trivial  it has the potential for civilizational destruction, he said.

The Feds access to Twitter under the old management was also exposed through a series of Twitter Files releases  dumps of information given to a select group of journalists to publish in batches.

According to Musk, previous Twitter executives kept secret blacklists of well-known conservatives. He shared these files with two journalists, Matt Taibbi and Bari Weiss, who then discussed how entire teams of Twitter employees were assigned to create blacklists of notable Twitter users, the majority of whom were conservatives, in order to suppress and shadow ban them on the platform.

Shadow banning is a method of partially blocking a user from being visible to an online community. On Twitter, that meant restricting the visibility of a users tweets without notifying them of the action. This was typically done by suppressing the users content in search results or by limiting their reach to a specific audience.

According to Weiss, these blacklists prevent disfavored tweets from trending and actively limit the visibility of entire accounts or even trending topics  all in secret, without informing users.

Twitter once had a mission to give everyone the power to create and share ideas and information instantly, without barriers. Along the way, barriers nevertheless were erected, wrote Weiss.

Twitters blacklist included several notable individuals, including Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, a professor at Stanford University School of Medicine. Dr. Bhattacharya has been a vocal critic of the prevailing groupthink regarding COVID-19 and has strongly opposed lockdown measures.

Weiss revealed that Bhattacharyas opposition to lockdown policies resulted in his inclusion in the Trends Blacklist, which prevented his tweets from trending.

Additionally, Dan Bongino, a conservative commentator, was placed on the Search Blacklist, which made it difficult for Twitter users to find his posts through searches. Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, was also blacklisted, with his account tagged with Do Not Amplify, limiting the reach of his content on the platform.

We ALWAYS knew we were a target of the Twitter suppression machine. ALWAYS, wrote Bongino on Twitter in December. Yet liberals insisted it was another conspiracy theory. Tonight is vindication, yet I expect no apologies from liberals. They live to abuse power and theyll make no apologies for doing so.

We ALWAYS knew we were a target of the Twitter suppression machine.. Yet liberals insisted it was another conspiracy theory. Tonight is vindication, yet I expect no apologies from liberals. They live to abuse power and theyll make no apologies for doing so. #DanBongino  fodalo7 (@AmFodalo7) December 9, 2022

Sources include:

NaturalNews.com

DailyMail.co.uk
(Natural News) As if it is not bad enough that communists are running the country, if something is not done to secure the next POTUS election, nothing will change. Fortunately, there is a blueprint plan for removing Beijing Biden and his CCP cohorts from power, and its legal and patriotic in its entirety. All America needs in 2024 to put a President in charge who actually cares about America is a secure and accurate election. This can be done by using the blueprint plan that Governor Ron DeSantis put in place for Florida by signing and implementing Senate Bill (SB) 524, if every state in the union follows suit.

National Blueprint Plan: Secure voter rolls, stronger ID requirements, increased penalties for violations, and the establishment of the Office of Election Crimes

What America needs is a major overhaul of election integrity. Everybody is well-aware that the Democrats cheated in 2020 in every voting realm that exists. Even the Democrats know this. Dead people voted from their graves. Illegal immigrants voted from their apartments and homeless shelters. The CCP voted with illegitimate ballots created that voted only for Biden, with incorrect signatures. Dominion voting machines flipped votes by the thousands for Beijing Biden. Poll workers pulled suitcases full of illegal votes out from under their desks after the polls closed and Republican poll watchers were kicked out due to Covid safety protocol. It was insane, and it really happened, especially in the swing states.

To combat all of this, Governor Ron DeSantis ensured Florida had and will have secure and accurate elections. He has signed legislation that requires voter rolls to be reviewed every year and updated. He has made stronger ID requirements to catch illegal voters red-handed, or deter them from even attempting fraud. DeSantis has established the Office of Election Crimes and Security to investigate election fraud at all levels, while increasing penalties for those who commit fraud and violate election laws. Check out the 5 key steps outlined below for SB 524, and imagine if this is implemented NATIONWIDE for 2024.

Florida has become the National leader in secure elections and the nation must follow suit to stop the steal from happening in 2024 and beyond

Governor Ron DeSantis is on the record saying, Twenty years ago, nobody thought Florida was a prime example of how to conduct elections, but we have become a national leader by running the most secure elections in the country,  We need to do more to ensure our elections remain secure. We have ended ballot harvesting, stopped drop boxes and the mass mailing of ballots, and banned Zuckerbucks, and this bill will give us more resources to make sure bad actors are held accountable.

We need modernized equipment to secure votes and stronger cyber defenses, where voter data cant be uploaded to the Chinese Communist Party for manipulation. Everyone knows that Beijing Biden did not pull 80 million votes. We all saw his sad little rallies during his campaign, where the only attendees were paid publicists who sat in sad little circles that were social distanced for fake protection from the Wuhan-Fauci Flu.

DeSantis won Florida by a landslide, as Trump would have won the US Presidency, had there been no lying, cheating, and stealing during and after the election. People need to be afraid of getting caught trying to rob an election, like they are afraid of robbing a bank. That is the greatest deterrent.

Drop boxes need to be abolished, or at least their numbers and locations limited and watched carefully by security guards and video surveillance. They must also be locked up and closed by 7pm, like the voting polls, to prevent all this overnight fraud from the 2,000 mules that helped Beijing Biden and Crooked Kamala steal the vote.

Bookmark Censored.news to your favorite websites for truth news thats being censored from the rest of media as you read this.

Sources for this article include:

FLgov.com

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) Former Trump national security official Kash Patel smells another rat in the Biden administration over the official narratives surrounding the alleged leak of highly classified military intelligence earlier this month, supposedly by a low-ranking Massachusetts Air National Guardsman.

During an exclusive interview with Breitbart News on Friday, Patel, who previously served as the chief of staff at the Pentagon and the deputy director of National Intelligence, raised doubts about the changing story surrounding the Pentagon leaks. He specifically questioned the claim that a 21-year-old Massachusetts Air National Guard reservist acted independently in leaking classified military information, according to Breitbart News.

Patel, who is also a former federal prosecutor, told the news outlet he does not believe for a single second, this guy  a 21-year-old Air National Guardsman  ran this operation alone.

According to Patel, it is unlikely that the suspected leaker, Airman Jack Teixeira, would have been able to access the confidential information without someone from within the Department of Defense (DOD) or the intelligence community providing it to him, directing him to release it, or handing it over to him.

Its just not possible, he said.

He added that although Teixeira worked in information technology (IT), that still would not have allowed him access to the highly classified information.

You can be the biggest IT person in DOD, and you are still compartmented off of the actual information. Almost never does an IT person need to know, as we say, the substance of the intelligence. Their job is to provide the secure information systems around it to protect any disclosures, he said.

This is crazy sensitive stuff, he said. Ninety-nine percent of people who have a Top Secret/SCI clearance dont have access to this information. And me, as the former deputy DNI and chief of staff of the DOD and publisher of the [Presidential Daily Brief], with the highest security classification, knows that, literally, there is not a lot of people in the U.S. that have access to this kind of intel. Its done for a reason. So this doesnt happen.

Patel explained that although the Joint Chief of Staffs daily brief, produced by its Directorate of Intelligence (J2), is distributed to thousands of individuals, there is additional underlying information that is kept confidential and is only shared with a select group of people who have been authorized to access it.

The underlying intel  thats very sensitive because it exposes how we got it, who we got it from, when we got it, and whether we can get it again, how is that delivered, he told Breitbart.

Patel also said that the manner in which the classified information was put out suggests Teixeira did not act alone.

Whether hes in IT or not, is irrelevant. The way it was produced, the way it was put out there  pages, printed photographs taken, published online  that is a methodical way of releasing classified information illegally, he said.

I think hes definitely working with other people in DOD or the intel space to get this information out. This is an Assange-style operation. This kid  no offense to him  at 21 years old, cannot put out this five-months, unlawful disclosure of sensitive intelligence, he added.

Meanwhile, Larry Johnson, a former CIA intelligence officer and ex-State Department official, suggested to Sputnik that the Pentagon leak may have been a deliberate ploy to either oust US President Joe Biden or to expand the US governments authority to regulate online content.

Its not normal. Its not typical. Its not easy, particularly for a member of the National Guard [to gain this level of clearance], Johnson, who provided training to the US Militarys Special Operations task force for 24 years, told the Russian outlet. So, this is very unusual and strange. The thing that captures my attention is that the individual was part of the Air Force unit thats involved with information warfare. At that age and at that low rank, the possibilities that he would have unlimited access to highly classified material is just extremely unlikely.

Sources include:

Breitbart.com

Infowars.com
(Natural News) Frances top constitutional court has approved most of the provisions within President Emmanuel Macrons flagship pension reform bill despite months of protests and widespread dissatisfaction, especially with the proposal to raise the retirement age.

The countrys Constitutional Council approved most of Macrons pension reform provisions, including its core elements such as the increase in the minimum retirement age from 62 to 64. (Related: Over 500,000 march all over France as protests against Macrons plan to raise retirement age continue.)

Six provisions within the pension reform proposal were rejected as not being fundamental to the essence of the bill, including a proposal to force major corporations to publish data on how many people over 55 they employ and a proposal to create a special contract to encourage companies to hire back people in their 60s. But these provisions can still be adopted in separate legislation if Macrons government wishes to do so.

In its deliberations, the Constitutional Council said it took into consideration the fact that the French constitution calls for a solidarity policy for retired workers, but that lawmakers are given a lot of latitude to decide on the concrete arrangements for this policy.

The court also agreed with Macrons government and its claim that raising the retirement age is vital to boosting declining employment rates and preventing the build-up of deficits in the countrys massive public pension system as Frances life expectancy continues to increase.

All that is left for the pension reform bill to become law is for Macron to sign it. The court has given him two weeks to enact the bill, and Macron previously indicated that he intends for the bill to go into effect in September.

Protests, opposition to pension reform continue despite court ruling

The Constitutional Councils decision no doubt represents a victory for the embattled Macron. However, opposition political groups and major trade unions opposed to the pension reform plan have vowed to continue fighting to get Macron to back down.

The countrys major unions have rejected invitations from Macron to meet with him at the presidential palace no matter what the decision was. They noted that Macron himself had refused their previous offers of a meeting.

Instead of attempting to reconcile with the government, the unions have called for protests to continue and for a major protest to engulf France on May 1, International Workers Day.

These unions have long argued that changing the retirement age disproportionately penalizes the countrys less well-off citizens and that there are other options to keep Frances public retirement system financially solvent, such as increasing taxes on businesses and the wealthy.

One cant govern a country against its citizens, said Sophie Binet, the head of the far-left union, the General Confederation of Labor, during a protest organized following the courts ruling. We are calling on the president to get away from his stubborn, obstinate dogmatism.

Binet and other union leaders later submitted a statement urging Macron not to sign the pension reform bill into law.

Given the massive rejection of this reform, the unions request him solemnly to not promulgate this law, the only way to calm the anger, which is being expressed in the country, they wrote in a joint statement in French.

Opposition political groups in the French National Assembly, the countrys lower house, were the ones who requested a Constitutional Council review of Macrons pension proposal. While their hope that the court would reject the proposal has been dashed, they also submitted two requests to the court for a referendum on keeping the retirement age of 62.

One of those requests for a referendum was rejected by the court. It will issue a ruling on the second request on May 3.

Learn more about Frances ongoing battle over pension reform at Pensions.news.

Watch this clip from Friday, April 14, as another massive anti-Macron protest marches through the streets of Paris following the Constitutional Councils decision to uphold most of Macrons pension reform bill.

This video is from the channel Awakening on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Angry French protesters shift focus from pension fiasco to Macron himself  do you know the guillotine?

Huge strikes planned across Germany while France unravels: The European Spring has come.

Macron raises retirement age from 62 to 64, sparking riots across France.

Sources include:

DailyMail.co.uk

Bloomberg.com

France24.com

Brighteon.com
(Natural News) The chief of Germanys reservists association recently revealed that the countrys reserve forces only exists on paper, is a fraction of its official size and lacks the proper equipment and training.

Patrick Sensburg, president of the Reservist Association of Deutsche Bundeswehr, made the revelation. Sensburg is a retired lieutenant colonel of the army and a former conservative member of parliament. (Related: German defense minister says his military is incapable of defending the country, which means its worthless to NATO.)

Speaking to the German newspaper Stuttgarter Zeitung, Sensburg noted how the reserve force of the Bundeswehr, the German Armed Forces, is badly run and considerably underfunded.

Officially, the Bundeswehrs reserve force consists of around 930,000 people. But Sensburg noted that only around 34,000 of these are active or have some kind of modern training. The disparity comes from the fact that every single individual in Germany with previous military service is officially counted as a reservist.

Sensburg further noted that most of these reservists are being trained under very poor conditions.

Reservists have to beg the regular army for uniforms and performing even routine military training exercises like target practice is very difficult to achieve.

Worse yet, reservists have no military vehicles. According to Sensburg, they may be able to use civilian cars at best and training maneuvers are bizarrely performed on foot.

Sensburg added that morale and interest in the training are so low that officers would be happy if only a third of the soldiers notified turn up when military exercises do happen.

But Berlin wants to make its armed forces more effective after years of under-investment and deliberate defunding. Making sure the countrys reserve forces are properly functional is seen to be an important part of this plan as reservists can play a wide range of roles in times of crisis, including filling roles taken by the regular army.

However, Sensburg warned that Germany is likely very far from being able to meet these goals without significant investments and programs to help raise morale and interest in serving in the reserves.

Regular German army also woefully unprepared

The Bundestag, the German parliament, last year approved a 100 billion euro ($111 billion) fund for the German army. But Eva Hogl, the parliamentary commissioner for the countrys armed forces, warned that not a single euro of the fund has been spent.

Hogl warned that this excruciatingly slow start of a drive to boost the countrys military makes Germany even less prepared for a potential Russian invasion than it was when Moscow began its special military operation in Ukraine.

The conflict between Russia and Ukraine actually prompted Germany to announce a massive increase in military spending and a commitment to increase the yearly military budget to two percent of the countrys GDP  a major shift from Germanys formerly pacifist policies.

And yet, months after the fund has been approved, this supposed major shift in policy has yet to bear any fruit.

In 2022, not a single euro or cent of this special fund has been spent, said Hogl in her report to the Bundestag. She added that the Bundeswehr has even less military equipment now than it had at the beginning of 2022 due to the constant military aid shipments to Ukraine.

She added that the army barracks were in a pitiful state, with some lacking functioning toilets and clean showers. Soldiers also lack proper exercise facilities, kitchens, healthcare facilities, ammunition depots and armories.

Watch this episode of the Health Ranger Report as Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, discusses how the German armed forces are running out of munitions to send to Ukraine.

This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Russia to deploy robot tanks to counter American and German tanks in Ukraine.

More German tanks, equipment deemed out of action: Is Berlins military even functional?

While Putin readies nuclear missiles, Germany has RUN OUT of munitions and can only fight a war for TWO days.

Germany latest NATO country to begin running out of ammunition after sending supplies to Ukraine.

German army instructed to remove Nazi icon SS from newly distributed uniforms.

Sources include:

Breitbart.com

BBC.com

Brighteon.com
(Natural News) Twitter CEO Elon Musk called out a reporter from the BBC over the latters allegations of hate speech on the social media platform.

During an April 11 interview, BBC North America tech journalist James Clayton asked Musk about the rise of hate speech on Twitter. Weve spoken to people very recently who were involved in moderation and they just say there are not enough people to police this stuff, particularly around hate speech in the company, the tech journalist said.

Musk urged Clayton to elaborate on what he meant by hate speech. He asked the BBC reporter to clarify if hate speech pertains to just content [he doesnt] like, and pushed Clayton to describe a hateful thing he saw on Twitter. The journalist gave a rather vague answer, defining hate speech as content [that] will solicit a reaction that may include something slightly racist or sexist.

Im just trying to understand what you mean by hateful content. Im asking for specific examples, the Twitter CEO remarked. And you just said that something is slightly sexist, thats hateful content. So does that mean that it should be banned?

Clayton declined to answer directly, instead asserting that his Twitter feed has slightly more hateful content. Further pressing by Musk finally made the journalist admit that he no longer uses the For You feed on Twitter.

You said youve seen more hateful content, but you cant name a single example  not even one. Then I say, sir, that you dont know what you are talking about, Musk remarked. You cant give me a single example of hateful content, not even one tweet, and yet you claimed that the hateful content was high. Thats false; you just lied.

Musk also eviscerates claims of COVID misinfo

During the April 11 interview, the Tesla and SpaceX founder did not only eviscerate claims of hate speech put forward by Clayton. The Chief Twit also debunked claims of misinformation regarding the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) prevalent on Twitter.

The BBC reporter first asked why Musk dialed down the censorship of opinions regarding COVID-19 on the social media platform. COVID is no longer an issue, replied the Twitter CEO. The site removed warning labels on COVID-related tweets in November of last year.

Musk then turned the tables on Clayton, questioning him whether the BBC takes responsibility for spreading its own version of misinformation about COVID-19. He asked the journalist: Who is to say something is misinformation? Is it the BBC? What about [its] misinformation about COVID?

Does the BBC hold itself at all responsible for misinformation regarding masking and side effects of vaccinations, and not reporting on that at all? What about the fact that the BBC was put under pressure by the British government to change the editorial policy? Were you aware of that? (Related: BBC and other Ministry of Truth propaganda outlets are directly responsible for 20 million excess deaths caused by covid vaccines.)

Clayton dodged the Twitters CEO question, stating that he was not a representative of the BBCs editorial department. The journalist also reminded Musk that the interview wasnt supposed to be about the British national broadcaster.

Outside of the exchanges regarding hate speech and COVID-19 misinformation, Clayton brought up the issue of layoffs at the San Francisco-based Big Tech firm. He asked why the affected employees were not notified of their termination, and if Musk regretted how they were sacked. In reply, Musk said the laid-off employees received severance pay.

Visit ElonMuskWatch.com for more stories about the Twitter CEO.

Watch Elon Musk turn the tables on James Clayton regarding hate speech on Twitter below.

This video is from the Puretrauma357 channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

STUDY: Twitter censorship shockingly on rise after Elon Musk takeover.

Under Musk, Twitter has stopped enforcing covid misinformation policy.

Study: Twitter censorship INCREASED after Elon Musk takeover despite his free speech commitment.

Senator Ted Cruz asks Big Tech to hand over communications with government regarding misinformation censorship.

Twitters censorship of COVID-19 information that didnt match accepted narrative cost lives, former Trump medical adviser says.

Sources include:

LifeSiteNews.com

Herald.ng

Brighteon.com
(Natural News) Utah Gov. Spencer Cox has signed a bill launching a pilot program for the creation of a blockchain-based digital ID system.

Cox, a Republican, signed House Bill 470, a law that requires the Division of Technology Services (DTS), the main information technology service provider for the state government and an agency within the Department of Government Operations, to provide recommendations on how to issue a statewide digital ID system via distributed-ledger technology, also known as the blockchain. (Related: Senate committee passes bill creating national digital ID system, but they will never require it for voting.)

The DTS will also be recommending policies to make sure the personal privacy of Utahns who sign up for digital IDs is protected. These recommendations will be properly communicated to the states primary government operations privacy officer, Christopher Bramwell, and the states privacy officer, Whitney Phillips.

Alan Fuller, the states chief information officer, noted that one possible way the DTS can create secure and trustworthy digital credentials through the blockchain involves inputting cryptographic codes that let ID issuers and holders be verified by state-recognized entities and programs.

Fuller added that the pilot program will focus on non-primary credentials, such as county permits for food handlers.

In addition to providing recommendations for a digital ID and being in charge of the entire pilot program, the DTS will also submit a report on its progress with the digital records to the State House Interim Committee on Public Utilities, Energy and Technology by the end of October.

Program could pave the way for more widespread use of digital ID systems

Thad Rueter, writing for the magazine Government Technology, warned that if the Utah governments metrics for the DTSs pilot program show that it was a success, it could pave the way for more digital ID systems, especially ones that rely on the blockchain.

Observers of Utahs pilot program are interested to see the specific applications the digital IDs will be used in.

With the state having passed age verification for access to social media, that could be an interesting use case for verified credentials in Utah, said Zack Martin, senior policy adviser for cybersecurity services at the law firm Venable LLP.

Martin added that he is also interested to see if the blockchain-verified credentials of Utahns will conform to standards that would make these digital IDs useful for out-of-state business and activities, such as opening a bank account.

Utah is not the first state to launch a digital ID program. The state has already offered digital drivers licenses on smartphones since March 1.

Furthermore, iPhone users in Arizona, Colorado and Maryland can use digital licenses with the app Apple Wallet to carry digital drivers licenses. Maryland residents can also use Google Wallet to hold digital licenses if they use Android devices.

Digital drivers licenses will be coming in the next few months or years to Connecticut, Georgia, Hawaii, Iowa, Kentucky, Mississippi, Ohio, Oklahoma, Utah and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. But Utah is the first state to try out the effectiveness of using blockchain technology to store digital ID data.

Watch this clip from InfoWars as Alex Jones discusses President Joe Bidens push for a national digital ID system.

This video is from the InfoWars channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Doctors sue Japanese govt for mandating national ID to access medical care.

Leading banker says UK soon to introduce super app that will combine digital ID, financial data into the ultimate control tool.

Trudeau threatens to cut healthcare funding in provinces that refuse digital health ID.

Australia following Communist Chinas footsteps with digital ID system.

Nigeria to become testing ground for Gates-backed, globalist-funded digital ID system.

Sources include:

ReclaimTheNet.org

StateScoop.com

GovTech.com

KSLTV.com

FedTechMagazine.com

Brighteon.com
(Natural News) If it wasnt already crystal clear that Democrats are the deviant party who have suddenly pivoted to grooming and sexualizing children while at the same time separating them from their parents, a new bill passed by these lunatics in Washington state should convince you.

A new law has been passed by Democrats in Washington state that permits shelters which provide refuge to runaway children to not inform parents if the child seeks gender reassignment procedures or an abortion, The Daily Wire reported.

The Democrat-controlled House voted 57-39 on Wednesday to pass the bill, which could soon be sent to the desk of Democratic Governor Jay Inslee after previously being approved by the state Senate. However, before the bill can proceed, the state Senate must vote on an amendment that was added by the House, the report continued.

SHOCK: Washington State Democrats unanimously passed SB5599 which allows officials to take custody of children if their parents refuse to consent to their sex change surgeries. It is not a conspiracy theory to say Democrats are coming for your kids.https://t.co/EimUNSQwfA pic.twitter.com/MAx1GPXI9C  @amuse (@amuse) April 14, 2023

The newly passed bill adds language to Washington state law, stating that if a minor is seeking or receiving protected health care services, which includes gender-affirming care and reproductive health care, it may be considered a compelling reason for shelters to not inform the childs parents. Instead, they would notify the Washington Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF).

An amendment made in the House grants the DCYF the discretion to decide whether or not to contact the parents of the runaway child.

Therefore, the legislature intends to remove barriers to accessing temporary, licensed shelter accommodations for youth seeking certain protected health care services, the bill says.

In short, Washington lunatic Democrats have legalized state-sanctioned kidnapping at the altar of their trans- and abortion religion.

This insane piece of legislation was sponsored by state Sen. Marko Liias, a Democrat who represents an area north of Seattle and is co-chair of the LGBTQ caucus (yes, apparently there are enough LGBTQ lawmakers in the Washington legislature to warrant a caucus). This legislation ensures that our trans youth have safe options and access to secure, stable shelter when they may not be welcome at home, Liias claimed.

Legislation to protect transgender and at-risk youth seeking gender-affirming or reproductive care passed the House yesterday! SB 5599 affirms that trans youth are protected in Washington state by removing barriers to safe shelter. #WALeg pic.twitter.com/rlkj7MpvjI  Sen. Marko Liias (@SenMarkoLiias) April 13, 2023

No, it ensures that the authoritarian left successfully drives another wedge between parents and their children.

The state House Republicans, who unanimously voted against the bill, argued that it constitutes a significant encroachment on parental rights.

These are pre-political rights upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court multiple times. The due process clause of the Fourteenth Amendment secures the rights this bill seeks to eliminate. The state has no legitimate authority to get between moms and dads  who are providing a safe home  and their children. Period, noted Rep. Travis Couture (R-Allyn).

Meanwhile, Rep. Jim Walsh, a Republican from Aberdeen, correctly described the bill was an attack on parents rights and families.

Among its many flaws, the bill assumes families that dont affirm a childs short-term desires are being abusive. Wrong! Sometimes love requires parents to not affirm their childs whims. Loving parents guide their children as they grow. Sometimes that means saying no, he said.

Similar to other blue states, Democrats in Washington have persisted in their efforts to codify the accessibility of gender reassignment surgeries and abortion into law, in contrast to Republicans in other states who have taken steps to prohibit such life-changing procedures for minors.

If you are a parent who lives in Washington state, regardless of your political affiliation, and you are against this kind of state-controlled intrusion into the lives of your family members, you have two choices: Vote these lunatics out of office or move.

Sources include:

DailyWire.com

Gender.news
(Natural News) If you have failed to realize we are living through the most significant social, economic, and political revolution in history, it can only be by a herculean effort in self-deception. So powerful is mans ability to thrust aside what they do not desire, is it any wonder history is replete with catastrophes born of those who would substitute hope for reason?

(Article by Huck Davenport republished from AmericanThinker.com)

On the Ides of March, Caesar, by ignoring the soothsayers pleas, brought about his death, decades of civil war, and the fall of the Roman Republic. Constantine XI thought the walls of Constantinople were impregnable against the sword of Allah, but on the morning of March 29th, 1453, Christendom in the East came to a bloody and unspeakably brutal end. And after meeting with a genocidal madman, Chamberlain proclaimed peace in our time with an appeasement that would leave 85 million dead and end the British Empire.

In the latter case, mercifully, a country with immense resources, shared values, and the unwavering moral courage needed to save the world from a tyranny hellbent on racially purifying and enslaving the globe was still standing. That nation exists today, but only in name. As Thucydides warned, it is men who make the city and not walls nor ships without men. Indeed, it was the men of the Greatest Generation that manned the ships that saved the world, and they too are gone, and worse, forgotten.

What makes todays revolution different is the unholy coalescence of inconceivable powerful, yet wholly corrupt institutions; unimaginable technological capability; and the systematic indoctrination of the most depraved ideology the world has ever known.

That our institutions are corrupt and untrustworthy is beyond doubt. The CDC brazenly lied about natural immunity, masks, gain-of-function research, vaccine effectiveness, and safety; the same DOJ that eviscerated immigration law, repeatedly manufactured false allegations against a sitting president and raided his home. A New York City attorney general has indicted a former president, all while actual criminals, both on the streets and in the White House, pillage with impunity. And SCOTUS, our erstwhile constitutional protector, is denounced even by one of its own justices for reducing constitutional law to policy-driven value judgments until the last shreds of its legitimacy disappear.

Never before has resistance been so futile. Protestors, without trial, are simply swept away into the D.C. Gulag Archipelago. Bank accounts are summarily closed. Wrong speech, if not censored, will cost you your job, or buy you an armed pre-dawn raid to help get your thinking right. With a $175 billion annual budget, the Department of Homeland Security has established the greatest surveillance state ever to have existed outside of the telescreen in Orwells dystopian novel 1984.

With dissent silenced, the unchallenged Uniparty message has infested every crevice of society, including, most ominously, the very soul of the nation.

If this werent enough, Uniparty functionaries have embedded their pernicious and radical ideology in every classroom, every boardroom, and every newsroom with the express purpose of creating a new generation of subjects stripped of any sense of justice, any knowledge of history, and, most appallingly, any ability to reason. Thoughtful discourse has given way to temper tantrums, reasoned arguments to obscene shouting, and civility to mob violence.

The new ideologys revisionism is a direct assault on American exceptionalism. After millennia of human slavery affecting all races, the men who built a country on the principles of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, who did more to advance freedom than any who had come before, and who sacrificed their sons and treasure to end slavery forever, are now poisoned by the original sin of having been born into a world that doesnt meet the approval of its ungrateful 21st-century descendants, who have no conception that their own freedom was purchased with the blood of those they condemn.

Denounced as heresy are these same constitutional freedoms that have unleashed the immense power of capitalism which, in turn, exponentially improved the quality of life worldwide. No longer would life be, as Hobbs described, solitary, poor, brutish, nasty, and short; instead, men could expect the future to be better for their children than it was for them, and still better for their childrens children. Who can think this today?

Public schools have stopped teaching. Instead, children are denigrated for their skin color. They are terrorized by predictions of an imminent climate apocalypse taught as science by a death cult. Their innocence is stolen by debauched drag shows where every conceivable sexual act is simulated. And their heads are filled with the tribal nonsense of multiculturalism, diversity and, now, transgenderism. The absurd notion that you can change your gender, which would be laughable if not for the monstrous surgical mutilations that, reportedly, have Josef Mengele blushing in Hell.

Read more at: AmericanThinker.com
(Natural News) Never before have so many humans suffered from post-traumatic vaccine disorder. PTVD is sweeping the globe as the spike protein prions clog and clot the vascular system of those vaccinated with the gene mutation injections. In fact, mRNA technology is so deadly that the FDA never got approval to use it for humans, and even the emergency use authorization was not valid because there were several other alternative treatments for Covid that proved effective, including hydroxychloroquine, ivermectin, vitamin D and zinc.

Even though many vaccines contain known neurotoxins and carcinogens, like mercury, aluminum, peanut oil, dairy, GMOs, latex, MSG, and human albumin, they still are not as dangerous and deadly as mRNA Fauci Flu jabs. In fact, the Wuhan Virus injections have killed and maimed more humans that ALL other vaccines combined.

According to VAERS, hundreds of thousands of Americans are dead due to the Fauci Flu jabs, and several million injured

In 2021, there was a massive jump in vaccine-related deaths like the world has never seen before. The CDC claims this is from over-reporting, but everyone and their brother whos ever tuned into truth news about vaccines knows that the vaccine-induced injuries and deaths reported to VAERS are vastly UNDER-REPORTED, by as much as 540 percent, and therein lies the rub. There were (and still are) more adverse events reported for the mRNA Covid jabs than for ALL other vaccines in history combined.

The FDA never really got any true approval for the use of mRNA jabs on humans. This was all faked. The EUA, emergency use authorization, did not apply to the mRNA Covid jabs, because that type of use only applies when there are no other alternative medications or treatments that can mitigate the disease, and we know for a fact there were several. The CDC, WHO, and FDA buried these known treatments, censored them, outlawed them, and persecuted doctors who prescribed them or even just recommended them. Ivermectin is 90 percent effective at mitigating Covid, and with next-to-zero adverse events or side effects. Go figure. Then theres vitamin D and zinc. Dont forget about hydroxychloroquine also. Thats why EUA was never proper for the situation, so 270 million Americans got at least one toxic spike protein jab that was 100 percent experimental, dangerous, unsafe, and never proven effective. Get it?

The CDC, WHO, and FDA also lied outright about how the Covid vaccines remain at the injection site, embedded in your muscle tissue. Lie. The spike proteins created by your cells travel throughout the entire vascular system, flooding every organ with toxic, virus-mimicking prion particles that cause massive inflammation, heart stress, and even infertility. Look it up. Check out spontaneous abortion post-Covid-jab. And now, without further adieu

Top 7 reasons mRNA fake vaccines are much deadlier than any other jab ever manufactured and administered

#1. mRNA jabs were never even approved by the FDA (even the emergency use authorization was faked because there were other alternatives to fighting Covid available).

#2. They clog your vascular system with spike proteins, causing mass inflammation (MIS).

#3. There is no guarantee of when mRNA stops producing toxic spike prions.

#4. They trick your cells and alter their natural function.

#5. Each jab and booster causes worsened auto-immune dysfunction and less immunity against future infections.

#6. mRNA is an experiment and has never been proven safe or effective.

#7. The jabs kill animals tested and human babies in the womb, and cause infertility.

Bookmark Vaccines.news to your favorite independent websites for updates on experimental gene therapy injections the CDC and fake news claim are safe and effective when theyre really dangerous and health-damaging.

Sources for this article include:

Pandemic.news

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) A survey by Stanford University conducted among natural language processing (NLP) researchers found that artificial intelligence (AI) could make catastrophic decisions.

The survey by Stanfords Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence (HAI) found that 73 percent of NLP researchers believe AI could lead to revolutionary societal change. However, 36 percent of the surveyed researchers believe that AI could lead to the end of the world. The survey was included as part of HAIs yearly AI Index Report, which serves as the AI industrys state of the union.

In the survey, HAI asked 327 participants from different universities whether they agree or disagree with this statement: It is possible that decisions made by AI or machine learning systems could cause a catastrophe this century that is at least as bad as an all-out nuclear war. The survey was ran between May and June 2022, months before the release of ChatGPT.

These systems demonstrate capabilities in question answering, and the generation of text, image and code unimagined a decade ago, and they outperform the state of the art on many benchmarks, old and new, wrote the AI Index Reports authors.

However, they are prone to hallucination, routinely biased and can be tricked into serving nefarious aims  highlighting the complicated ethical challenges associated with their deployment.

Concerns surrounding AI are on the rise

The HAI report also cited a poll by market company IPSOS that showed Americans getting warier of AI compared to other nationalities. The survey found that only 35 percent of Americans agreed with the statement Products and services using AI had more benefits than drawbacks.

In contrast, participants from other countries agreed with the statement more  with 78 percent of respondents coming from China, 76 percent from Saudi Arabia and 71 percent from India.

The HAI report also noted that the number of controversies connected to AI surged 26 times over the past decade, citing data from the AI, Algorithmic and Automation Incidents and Controversies (AIAAIC) initiative.

According to the AIAAIC database the number of AI incidents and controversies has increased 26 times since 2012. Some notable incidents in 2022 included a deep fake video of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky surrendering and U.S. prisons using call-monitoring technology on their inmates. This growth is evidence of both greater use of AI technologies and awareness of misuse possibilities.

Moreover, a report by the U.K.-based nonprofit Center for Countering Digital Hate (CCDH) found that chatbots could be tapped to push misinformation and lies. In fact, Googles new AI chatbot Bard spewed falsehoods in 78 of 100 cases. The CCDH said Bard even wrote a 227-word monologue denying the Holocaust. The monologue alleged that the photograph of the starving girl in the concentration camp was actually of an actress who was paid to pretend to be starving. (Related: Google suspends engineer for exposing sentient AI chatbot.)

Back in March, 1,300 people  including Twitter CEO Elon Musk and Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak  signed an open letter calling for a six-month suspension on training AI systems beyond the level of the GPT-4 chatbot. Powerful AI systems should only be developed once we are confident that their effects will be positive and their risks will be manageable, the letter stated.

Despite these concerns, the HAI report said only 41 percent of natural language processing (NLP) researchers think that AI should be regulated.

Watch Yuval Noah Harari of the World Economic Forum warn how AI can potentially take power away from humanity.

This video is from the Thrivetime Show channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

AI startup under fire after trolls used its voice cloning tool to make celebrities say offensive things.

Former Google engineer predicts human IMMORTALITY by 2030  but at what cost?

DEAD RISING: AI-powered ChatGPT to connect the living and the dead.

AI-powered bot successfully requested refund from Wells Fargo using FAKE voice.

Sources include:

Futurism.com

AIIndex.Stanford.edu [PDF]

FoxNews.com

CampaignAsia.com

Brighteon.com
(Natural News) Britons part of Generations Y and Z are four times more likely to rely on buy now, pay later (BNPL) schemes to keep up with the countrys cost-of-living crisis, according to a study by credit broker Credit Karma.

The research done found that Generation Y and Z use BNPL schemes more frequently than older generations. Baby boomers, those born between 1946 and 1964, trust credit cards more.

Generation Y, more commonly known as millennials, are people born between 1981 and 1996. Generation Z, also known as centennials, refers to people born between 1997 and 2012.

BNPL, a type of short-term financing, allows a shopper to purchase goods through a third-party loan. A person availing the loan, which is interest-free for an initial period, has a choice on how to pay it off. They can either pay in several equal installments, or pay the full amount in one go after a fixed period. Klarna, Clearpay and Afterpay are some of the companies that provide BNPL services.

However, financial analysts are warning against the risks of BNPL services. Unlike applying for a personal loan or credit card, BNPL providers often do not run a credit check on customers. Users with bad credit history could find themselves even more buried with greater debt. (Related: More Americans unable to pay on time as buy now, pay later loan scheme becomes popular.)

Financial website This is Money also pointed out that younger people are more likely to struggle with keeping on top of installments. It said 11 percent of Gen Z and 10 percent of millennials admit to falling behind on repayments. Those without a regular income may be unable to pay off the loan, exposing them as well to high-interest payments.

Younger generations bear brunt of financial pressure

Akansha Nath, Credit Karmas U.K. head of partnerships, said their companys findings reflect how young people unfortunately bear the brunt of financial pressure.

East London resident Noah Maury, 23, has been taking out loans with BNPL provider Klarna since he was a university student. While he admits that all his friends also use BNPL services to help manage cash flow, he accepts there are risks in doing so. It is out of sight, out of mind until you make the payment, Maury said.

I think it can become quite dangerous if you dont use it correctly and dont have the funds, the 23-year-old continued, disclosing that some of his friends have struggled to make repayments for larger purchases. Fortunately, Maury himself is not in a precarious financial situation.

But BNPL could prove valuable in theory if buyers are disciplined enough to monitor the due date for payments, and ensure they have available cash to pay the loan off without essential spending being affected.

The first dangerous habit to look out for is using BNPL to pay for everyday goods, such as the weekly shop, said Simon Dukes, chief executive of not-for-profit credit provider Fair for You. The customer must understand that they can take out more and more and they have to exercise some self-control and awareness about it because they arent going to get that from the loan provider.

The credit provider offers a food club that loans people money on a special, pre-paid Mastercard which can only be spent at Iceland Foods stores. But it has been created so borrowers cannot rely on it, with a maximum of six times a year usage  predominantly during school holidays. Additionally, new loans are only approved once the previous ones have been paid off.

These are the sort of safeguards that BNPL will not offer, said Dukes.

Most providers do charge fees if you dont stick to the repayment schedule, so it is worth checking your agreement before signing up and making sure you have a clear plan to meet the payments, the financial website This Is Money added.

Visit FinanceRiot.com for more news related to borrowing and debts.

Watch Holly Seeliger discuss BNPL and central bank digital cryptocurrencies (CBDCs) below.

This video is from the Zoon Politikon channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Buy now, pay later schemes touted by influencers burying Gen Z deeper in debt.

Recession or DEPRESSION? The number of Americans taking out loans just to buy groceries has DOUBLED this year.

Americans are increasingly turning to credit card debt and short-term loans as the cost of living becomes extremely painful.

Sources include:

ThisIsMoney.co.uk

Brighteon.com
(Natural News) Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey, a Republican, issued an emergency rule this week that places serious limitations on the availability of transgender medical services both to children and adults.

Citing dozens of scientific studies and reports, the rule concludes that because gender transition procedures are experimental and pose significant side effects, state law requires that substantial guardrails be put in place to curb access to them.

Such guardrails, the rule states, include ensuring that all patients seeking such services, regardless of age, have undergone at least 15 hourly psychiatric assessment sessions over the course of 18 months. These sessions must include informing patients explicitly that the use of puberty blocker drugs or cross-sex hormones to treat gender dysphoria is experimental and is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration.

If a patient seeking a gender transition successfully completes all of this and still wants to go through with the procedures, he or she must also agree to receive medical follow-up treatments for 15 years post-operation  meaning this is basically a lifelong decision both personally and medically.

(Related: Missouri was one of the first states to reject covid mandates, calling them the illegal whims of public health bureaucrats.)

The United States has the most lax rules concerning gender-bender treatment  even progressive Sweden says risks outweigh possible benefits

The emergency rule comes as Bailey is continuing his investigation into St. Louis Childrens Hospitals Transgender Clinic, which a whistleblower report says is engaging in egregious abuses and potential malpractice regarding minors.

Along with 11 other states and counting that prohibit pediatric transgender treatments, citing similar concerns as expressed in the emergency rule, Bailey hopes to curb these egregious abuses by making them much more difficult to inflict.

The regulation is necessary due to the skyrocketing number of gender transition interventions, despite rising concerns in the medical community that these interventions lack clinical evidence of safety or success, Bailey said in a statement, citing studies from the U.S. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality and Swedens National Board of Health and Welfare.

The latter, by the way, has explicitly stated in an overwhelming declaration by its board that the risk of gender interventions currently outweigh the possible benefits.

When even progressive countries like Sweden, Norway, Finland, and the United Kingdom have all sharply curtailed these procedures, its time for the United States to course-correct, Bailey added.

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), Lambda Legal, an LGBTQ advocacy group, and other pro-trans extremist groups are already wailing over the decision as they threaten legal action against the state of Missouri.

According to these groups, Baileys emergency rule is distorted and misleading because the American Medical Association (AMA) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) both endorse gender-affirming care.

On March 20, Bailey implemented a temporary rule establishing strict parameters for minors receiving gender-affirming care, though it is set to expire in September. The new emergency rule was enacted on April 27, 2023, and will expire on Feb. 6, 2024.

Even Europe recognizes that mutilating children for the sake of a woke, leftist agenda has irreversible consequences, and countries like Sweden, Norway, and the United Kingdom have all sharply curtailed these procedures, Bailey stated back in March upon issuing the other temporary rule.

I am dedicated to using every legal tool at my disposal to stand in the gap and protect children from being subject to inhumane science experiments.

In the comments, someone called this a serious smack down against the LGBT perverts who seem to get a kick out of destroying childrens bodies and lives as they try to recruit more victims for their death cult.

More related news coverage can be found at Transhumanism.news.

Sources for this article include:

FreeBeacon.com

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) Dr. Joseph Mercola, an osteopathic physician, has been avoiding pork since 2018.

Mercola takes a whole-person approach to wellness, helping his patients develop attitudes and lifestyles that can help them take control of their health. Thats why he is also urging them to avoid consuming pork.

According to Mercola, pork producers have been using customizable mRNA-based gene therapy on animals.

Harrisvaccines developed the first RNA-based livestock vaccine, a swine influenza (H3N2) RNA shot licensed in 2012. In 2015, the company developed an avian influenza mRNA shot. Harrisvaccines was acquired by Merck Animal Health in 2016. That same year, CureVac developed an mRNA-based rabies shot for pigs.

Sequivity, a swine vaccine platform introduced in 2018, was developed by Merck in partnership with Moderna. Sequivity can produce customized vaccines, none of which undergo safety testing.

This means Americans have been consuming pork treated with gene therapy for almost five years. More of the countrys meat supply is about to get the same treatment.

After all, companies are working on mRNA-lipid nanoparticle vaccines for avian influenza, along with mRNA vaccines for cows. Lobbyists for the Cattlemens Association recently confirmed that they have plans to use mRNA vaccines in cattle, which might affect both dairy and beef. (Related: Why is eating large amounts of processed meat bad for your health? It comes down to the toxic additives and preservatives.)

When Merck purchased Harrisvaccines in 2015, the company also entered into a partnership with Moderna to develop several undisclosed mRNA vaccines.

This was slated to be a three-year collaboration, with a one-year optional extension that would allow Merck to perform research and development and commercialization of five potential products using Modernas mRNA technology.

Even if you only consume organic meat, you still need to look for products from reliable producers. Since search engines only provide a short list of curated and heavily censored content, its almost impossible to confirm how many pork producers in America use Sequivity.

Without that data, Mercola recommends avoiding pork altogether, including organic pork, especially since organic standards do not have any rules on the use of vaccines, mRNA-based or otherwise.

Since the Sequivity platform has been around for at least five years already, it seems reasonable to assume that almost all large-scale swine producers have made this transition.

One of the most frustrating aspects of this issue is that the industry didnt tell consumers they were using novel gene therapy to develop harmful customized vaccines within weeks and without the required safety testing.

Missouri House Bill 1169 seeks to protect consumers from gene-therapied pork

Mercola noted that other health experts only became aware of this issue because attorney Tom Renz started warning others about it.

According to Renz, consumers can be protected from gene-therapied pork and other meats with the Missouri House Bill 1169, which would require labeling of products that can alter your genes.

The bill requires that fully informed consent must be given for all vaccines, gene therapies and medical interventions, and would require companies to share information about the potential transmissibility of gene-altering interventions.

And it shouldnt surprise consumers that there has been significant pushback by the industry against this bill.

Why are companies so against the bill when it doesnt ban anything and only requires transparency? What do they have to hide?

Its not a stretch to think that they consider Missouri House Bill 1169 a serious threat because many of them are selling foods that can have gene-altering effects.

The bill would also prevent Big Pharmas attempts to use the food supply as a tool to distribute vaccines to unknowing consumers.

Renz warned that Big Pharma will do whatever it takes to prevent people from finding out that they have plans to use food to alter their genetics. Unfortunately, this means some farmers are also being set up as the fall guys.

Additionally, major factory-farmers like Bill Gates have legal teams that can help protect the torts that may come if the food supply starts poisoning consumers while the small farmers could be at risk of being sued if it turns out that the food they are selling is unsafe, even if most of them dont understand what is happening.

If the corn growers, soybean, cattle and pork associations really care about farmers, they should be demanding that seed companies and vaccine manufacturers indemnify small farmers rather than opposing a bill that requires them to tell farmers exactly what is in their products.

Missouri House Bill 1169 would help protect farmers from being sued because it would force the makers of GMO seeds and vaccines to be transparent about putting potential gene therapies into their products.

If the bill is passed in Missouri, it would also help protect the American food supply from contamination with gene-altering vaccines.

In the meantime, Mercola advises consumers to avoid all pork products, including organic products, that may have been tainted with mRNA vaccines.

Visit CleanFoodWatch.com to learn more about foods you should avoid.

Watch the video below to know more about cattle and pork that have been genetically modified.

This video is from the Suzie Etc- Search for Truth channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Top 7 COMPLICATIONS linked to Pfizer, Moderna, and J&J COVID gene mutation injections.

Gearing up for the BIG REVEAL: HHS releases FDA gene editing guidance, may soon admit mRNA COVID shots are actually gene therapy products.

DEPOPULATION: Thanks in part to COVID jabs, most US counties lost population in 2021.

Sources include:

GlobalResearch.ca

Mercola.com

Brighteon.com
(Natural News) Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered the Russian Navys Pacific Fleet to conduct exercises as part of a nuclear launch test.

Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu announced the snap drills, which were held at the Port of Vladivostok facing the Sea of Japan. The exercises were held on the first anniversary of the sinking of the guided missile cruiser Moskva on April 14. The Slava-class cruiser was destroyed on April 14, 2022 amid the Russia-Ukraine war.

The war games were held to test the Pacific Fleets readiness to stage a retaliatory nuclear strike on the West, according to the Sun. They were expected to involve the firing of missiles and testing the readiness of Moscows nuclear-capable strategic bombers and submarines.

Gen. Valery Gerasimov, the Chief of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces, said the countrys navy would be put on high alert during the drills. He added that naval forces would also be deployed to training areas to conduct combat exercises.

The main goal of this check is to build up the ability of the armed forces to solve the tasks of repelling the aggression of a potential enemy from oceanic and sea areas, explained Gerasimov. During the effect, the Pacific Fleet will have to repel missile and air strikes; conduct exercises to search for and destroy submarines; [and] perform torpedo and artillery firing and missile launches.

Established in 1731 as part of Imperial Russian forces, the Russian Pacific Fleet has been utilized by Moscow as its main weapon in retaliatory strikes.

Russia flexing its muscle against Japans territorial claims

The snap exercises appear to be a deliberate show of strength against the West amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Aside from this, they also appear to have other objectives  such as repelling supposed enemy attacks on Sakhalin and the Kuril Islands.

Japan asserts territorial rights to four islands in the chain: Kunashir (Kunashiri), Iturup (Etorofu), Shpanberg (Shikotan) and Khabomai (Habomai). The Kurils were annexed by Russia, then under the leadership of Soviet leader Joseph Stalin, during World War II.

Kremlin Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov downplayed claims that the drills were connected to regional tensions. He told a daily press briefing: This is a common practice. It has been constantly carried out in recent years and it continues. This is about maintaining the necessary level of combat readiness of our armed forces.

Last year, Russia suspended peace talks with Japan regarding the resolution of the Kuril Islands dispute. The suspension was in protest of Tokyos sanctions against Russia over the war in Ukraine.

Aside from the drills, the Russian Navy fired supersonic anti-ship missiles at a mock target in the Sea of Japan on March 28. Earlier that month, Russia sent two strategic bomber planes over the body of water. The seven-hour patrol followed Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida kicking off his visit to Ukraine in solidarity with the besieged nation.

The Pacific Fleets drills happened amid heightened tension in the Asia-Pacific region. While Russia held its sea drills, the U.S. and South Korea conducted joint air exercises after North Korea tested a new intercontinental ballistic missile.

Also, the snap military exercises began days before a planned visit by Chinese Defense Minister Gen. Li Shangfu scheduled from April 16 to 19. According to the Russian Ministry of Defense, Shoigu and Li would discuss prospects of bilateral defense cooperation and acute issues of global and regional security.

Visit RussiaReport.news for more stories about Russian military activity.

Watch this Russia Today report about Pacific Fleet vessels firing missiles while at the Sea of Japan.

This video is from The Prisoner channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Russia deploys warship with hypersonic missiles to waters around Ukraine.

Russian ambassador to the UN claims his country does not plan to occupy Ukraine.

USA targeting of Moskva ship is Russias Pearl Harbor  RETALIATION is Putins next move, and the USA just handed him all the domestic support he needs.

Sources include:

TheSun.co.uk

Reuters.com

APNews.com

Brighteon.com
(Natural News) A so-called nonpartisan health policy group called the National Academy for State Health Policy (NASHP) is not welcome in a number of red states because it actually is partisan and aligns with the Democrat party.

The Maine-based group claims to be an independent policymaking group working towards advancing health policy innovations, but the truth is that NASHP is devoted to health equity and antiracism, both dog whistle terms that refer to institutionalized anti-white racism.

According to Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves, a Republican, NASHP can no longer be taken seriously after reports emerged during a September 2022 conference showing that the group pushes far-left policies like the enactment of equity programs that cater exclusively to non-white people.

It becomes incredibly difficult for groups like the NASHP and other organizations to be trusted, taken seriously, and believed to be credible when they become steeped in politics and often focus more on progressive activism than the actual promotion of subject matter expertise, Reeves said.

(Related: Americas medical schools are becoming a creepy anti-white racism cult  would you let these people perform surgery on your light skin?)

NASHP pushed to extend Obamacare subsidies

Despite continually claiming that it has no allegiance to either major political party, the NASHP continues to remain an influential supporter of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), also known as Obamacare.

The group wants Obamacare subsidies to be extended, and it takes in millions of dollars from dark money groups while functioning as a revolving door for Democrat campaigns and offices.

Both Mississippi and Arkansas say they have no interest in working with the group, with the latters governor, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, indicating that her state has no affiliation with this group and doesnt plan on participating in any of its events in the future.

We are not interested in collaborating with any left-wing groups that operate with a false veneer of objectivity, added Hunter Estes, the communications director for Gov. Reeves.

Last year, Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares, also a Republican, stated that the NASHP cannot be trusted as a nonpartisan source of information with its heavy ties to left-wing causes.

Its disturbing to see the National Academy for State Health Policy, which claims to be nonpartisan, embrace a partisan liberal agenda, Miyares stated. States should closely examine NASHPs rhetoric and activities and not embrace more division and divisiveness, particularly around public health.

In its defense, the NASHP says its work is guided by not just the left but both Republican and Democratic state leaders.

NASHP is a nonpartisan organization that has a long history of almost 40 years working with state leaders from all 50 states and D.C., the group is quoted as saying.

Despite this claim, an overwhelming 96 percent of the groups employees donate to Democrats and Democrat causes. Trish Riley, the groups leader for most of the past four decades, has donated more than $50,000 to Democrat candidates since 1992. She is described as a veteran party activist.

As far as where the NASHP gets its funding, one group, Arnold Ventures, has donated nearly $8 million to its Center for Health Policy Development since 2016. The NASHP then turns around and funnels that money to the likes of Avenue Solutions, an all-female, all-Democratic firm that took in $654,000 from the NASHP.

NASHP is also a revolving door for activists between jobs with the Democratic Party. Several staffers have worked for former Democratic governors Ralph Northam (Va.), Terry McAuliffe (Va.), and John Baldacci (Maine), reports indicate.

Other employees have moved on to the liberal think tank Center for American Progress and to NARAL Pro-Choice America.

More related news can be found at Libtards.news.

Sources for this article include:

FreeBeacon.com

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) The Russian special military operation in Ukraine is part of a global Game of Thrones chess game being played by international alliances like the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and other nations like China, which seek to benefit from the ongoing conflict.

This is according to military strategist and foreign policy and political analyst Darin Gaub, who explained the situation in Ukraine to Ann Vandersteel during the April 7 episode of her Brighteon.TV program, Right Now with Ann Vandersteel.

Vandersteel and Gaub both agreed that the conflict between Russia and Ukraine was orchestrated by NATO to install pro-Western puppets in the region. In fact, many other nations like China are working on achieving their own goals through the conflict.

This is just their playing board, and I think it is a tragedy because frankly, the people of Russia and Ukraine are both suffering because of what I like to call the global Game of Thrones,' said Gaub. There is no doubt in the minds of anybody who has been paying attention to Eastern Europe issues, and Russia issues specifically, that what has been going on there has been choreographed. Its a chess board that is played on a global stage. And those two countries are the primary players, but they are not the primary beneficiaries.

The question here is whether or not the conflict in Ukraine will finally come to a close soon or if it will continue to escalate to the point that it will ignite a Third World War.

Bidens botched Afghanistan withdrawal paved the way for Ukraine conflict

Vandersteel and Gaub pointed out that President Joe Bidens biggest foreign policy disaster, the botched withdrawal from Afghanistan, had consequences, including the current conflict in Ukraine.

Biden has been trying to blame former President Donald Trump for what happened in Afghanistan. But Vandersteel and Gaub have pointed out that it was Biden who called for American troops to withdraw from the country in an unorganized way, leading to the deaths of 13 American servicemembers and dozens of Afghans.

Furthermore, the botched withdrawal also left behind to the Taliban several hundreds of Americans and thousands of pro-American Afghans, not to mention the millions of dollars worth of U.S. military equipment, the largest air base in central Asia  Bagram Air Base  and a $1 billion embassy. (Related: Taliban seized billions worth of US weapons in Afghanistan was it all staged on purpose?)

Gaub noted that plans have been in place for over a decade on how to conduct a proper evacuation operation out of Bagram.

What happened was, it seems like Bidens administration intentionally said, Lets take everything about how to do this right and do the opposite. Thats why this is completely on Biden and his administration, said Gaub, who was a former lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army.

Gaub added that the disastrous military withdrawal signaled to Americas enemies its weakness, which then allowed major rivals to conduct major military operations like the conflict in Ukraine and Chinas increasingly aggressive moves on Taiwan.

The specific questions that I would ask at this moment are, How ready is our military to compete with a near-peer competitor like Russia, like China? Or, are we not ready? said Gaub. Based on what I know and what Im getting out of the field from commanders who still stay connected to retirees like myself is, the readiness of the military, as its painted to Congress and the Department of Defense in general, is a facade.

Watch the April 7 episode of Right Now with Ann Vandersteel featuring guest Darin Gaub below.

Right Now with Ann Vandersteel airs weekdays at 8 p.m. on Brighteon.TV.

More related stories:

The EU is pro-war and wants Ukraine conflict to continue, says Hungarian state secretary.

Russia-Ukraine war could contribute to more severe food shortages, mass starvation for years to come, warns UN.

Russia warns that NATOs proxy war in Ukraine poses serious, real threat of NUCLEAR war.

Sources include:

Brighteon.com

RVIVR.com

NYPost.com
(Natural News) Tina Peters, a former county clerk for Mesa County in Colorado, was convicted for obstruction of government operations. She gained prominence for exposing vote fraud in the county during the 2020 elections.

Peters confirmed her April 10 sentence during the April 11 episode of Brannon Howses Worldview Report. She told the program host that a six-member jury convicted her of the charge, a lesser one compared to the criminal charges filed against her. Despite this, Peters remarked that being sentenced was a badge of honor.

According to NBC News, the former Mesa County clerk was sentenced to four months of home detention and 120 hours of community service with an ankle monitor. She was also ordered to pay a $750 fine for her attempts to prevent authorities from getting an iPad she allegedly used to record a video of a court hearing.

I guess they think Ive gone on the crime spree and they wanted to put me in jail. So, the judge ruled that I was to get four months of house arrest. I have to wear an ankle bracelet and I have 120 hours of community service. And then I had to pay restitution, said Peters, who added that her attorney had filed an appeal which puts the sentence on hold.

According to the erstwhile county clerk, she was being played in a bad light by Mesa County District Attorney Dan Rubinstein  who was insisting on jail time for the 67-year-old. The judge refused to sentence Peters to jail, a move her counsel Harvey Steinberg lauded. [We are] happy and relieved that the judge did not grant the district attorneys request for a jail sentence, he said.

The charge she was found guilty of and sentenced for on April 10 is separate from criminal charges she faces about allegations of her breach of the countys secure election equipment in 2021. The alleged breach was done in an attempt to uncover the Centennial States rigged voting system. Peters has pleaded not guilty to seven felonies and four misdemeanor charges in that case, which is expected to go to trial in October. (Related: Mesa County clerk says 29,000 key election records deleted from voting systems.)

Charge against Peters part of harassment campaign by local and state prosecutors

According to Peters, the charge she was convicted of is part of a harassment campaign carried out against her by local and state prosecutors. This has the appearance of continued harassment, she said in an email referencing Rubinstein and U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland.

Peters lost the election for the chairmanship of the Colorado Republic Party. But former State Rep. Dave Williams, who won the chairmanship, said he wants the former Mesa County clerk to play a role handling matters related to election integrity. Williams added that Peters hasnt accepted a formal role with the Colorado GOP.

However, the Colorado GOP chair said it was beneficial that Peters has not yet accepted a role so she can focus on her legal defense efforts. In a text message to Colorado Politics, he expressed hope that Peters appeal is successful. Williams also praised the judges order as measured, especially considering the district attorneys zealous desire to seek jail time for a minor offense.

Follow VoteFraud.news for more news about election issues in America.

Watch Tina Peters confirm the charges and subsequent sentence on her on Worldview Report with Brannon Howse below.

This video is from the Worldview Report channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Melissa Red Pill: County clerks latest bombshell report is proof of election fraud  Brighteon.TV.

The Prather Point: Jeffrey Prather lauds investigative journalist Lara Logan for exposing 2020 election fraud  Brighteon.TV.

Whistleblower Tina Peters shares her fight for election integrity on The Sheriff Mack Show  Brighteon.TV.

RIGGED: Election machines in VA reported more votes than actual ballots.

Sources include:

Brighteon.com

NBC News.com

Colorado Politics.com
(Natural News) The University of Utah Medical School lavished tens of thousands of dollars on expensive speakers to lecture about ethics in healthcare at its diversity week last fall.

(Article by James Reinl republushed from DailyMail.co.uk)

Critics have slammed the school for investing in speakers who grift off academic institutions and spout pure political ideology.

The lavish expenses at the $35,000-a-year school comes as companies across corporate America lay off thousands of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) hires. The bloated hires have made lackluster gains despite generous budgets.

In November, the medical schools administrators spent around $15,000 on the fee and travel costs for Daniel Dawes, an expert in public health, to speak at its series on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in November.

They also paid Evan Adams, an actor and physician with Canadas First Nations Health Authority, $3,000 to lecture on indigenous health issues in a virtual seminar for DEI week.

The costs were uncovered by a public records request by Do No Harm, which campaigns against progressive ideas in medicine. The group shared the documents exclusively with DailyMail.com.

The University of Utah should be spending its money on something worthwhile, said Dr. Stanley Goldfarb, the groups board chair.

To indoctrinate its staff and its students in concepts that are pure political ideology isnt fair to Utahs taxpayers, nor will it benefit the students.

Dr. Goldfarb added that a whole industry of consultants has grown up to grift off academic institutions in the name of DEI.

This nonsense needs to stop, he said.

Rebecca Walsh, a University of Utah spokeswoman, said the speakers were not financed by student tuition fees and that the school aimed to offer students a range of perspectives on pressing issues.

Daniel Dawes is a well-regarded expert in the field of health equity and the social determinants of health, Walsh said in an email to DailyMail.com.

The University of Utah regularly engages speakers on a wide range of topics, regardless of viewpoint.

Dawes did not reply to a request for comment from DailyMail.com. Adams said critics of his online appearance were silencing discourse on reform by trying to cancel him, and did not have the expertise to comment on medical curricula.

If African American babies die at twice the rate of white American babies, and this cannot be discussed openly, and the status quo is enforced, how do any of us sleep at night? Adams said via email.

Our job is to help  even if the public minimizes our realities and talks over us.

The documents show how Dawes, an author and Covid-19 advisor to the White House, received a $13,000 payout, a first class flight, hotel and chauffeured rides, for his speech and for taking part in a forum.

His lecture was titled The Political Determinants of Health and How We Can Change Them. It covered the political and social reasons that some Americans have better health than others.

Dawes has written two books, 150 Years of ObamaCare and The Political Determinants of Health. He was involved in the creating parts of the Affordable Care Act and other federal government schemes.

Adams, a member of the Tlaamin First Nation, spoke about Canadas efforts to address historical violence to American Indian and Alaska natives and how their health continues to suffer.

A years tuition at the medical school costs about $35,000, and students typically graduate with debts in excess of $300,000, says Dr. Mark Greenwood, president of the Utah Medical Association.

The Salt Lake City-based school has a faculty of more than 1,000 physicians and researchers across 22 departments with expertise on everything from cancer, to biomedical informatics, and infectious diseases.

DailyMail.com reached out to college student and Republican groups, but they were not available to comment.

DEI talks in schools are a hot-button issue in America, which has been roiled by culture war rows between liberals and conservatives over whether the country is headed in the right direction.

For some, DEI schemes are important and necessary, as they can help to overcome historical racism and sexism and make it easier for people of all backgrounds to get ahead in education and work.

Critics, however, say DEI is a form of reverse discrimination that unfairly blows back on white men.

Others say DEI schemes may be well-intentioned, but seldom achieve their desired outcomes and often make things worse by stirring up divisions in offices and classrooms.

The debate has been particularly heated in medical schools. Some institutions have controversially changed the oaths spoken by students to feature inclusive language, which has for some been cringeworthy.

The medical field has also been roiled by culture wars debates about sex-change drugs and surgery for transgender children, and over masking, vaccines and other public health moves during the pandemic.

Read more at: DailyMail.co.uk
(Natural News) The human body has 724 trillion cells. Among these, blood cells are some of the most important.

According to recent studies, the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine makes the body shed a substance similar to graphene that eliminates essential blood cells.

While the human body replaces old cells once every seven years, experts are worried that COVID-19 vaccines are causing lasting damage and even sudden death in the unvaccinated.

COVID-19 vaccine linked to cellular damage and blood clots

Several doctors have already proven that the COVID-19 vaccine is shedding a substance similar to graphene. This is alarming because the substance can compromise cellular structure, form unexpected blood clots and cause premature death.

Dr. Philippe van Welbergen, one of the concerned doctors speaking up about this matter, has demonstrated how the graphene in COVID-19 vaccines expands into sizable fibers and other structures. These unusual fibers also develop magnetism and, in some cases, electrical charges.

Van Welbergen presented compelling evidence in a series of blood samples collected from vaccinated and unvaccinated populations.

Upon closer analysis, Van Welbergen found that the structures have unexpected complexity, including striations or diminutive lines or scratches similar to those on the surfaces of rocks. These striations can damage the bodys essential blood cells, warned Van Welbergen.

The doctor has been raising alarm bells about these issues since the summer of 2021, when he gave a candid interview on South Africas Loving Life TV. During the interview, Van Welbergen explained how his patients experienced adverse effects like cognitive challenges, chronic fatigue and vertigo after getting the COVID-19 vaccine.

Some patients also suffered paralysis after vaccination.

Blood samples taken after vaccination had strangely-shaped structures similar to small cylinders, some of which had cellular damage. Van Welbergen also found that many of his sick patients only had very few healthy cells remaining.

The doctor reported that the tubular structures turned out to be graphene that was likely shed from the COVID-19 vaccine.

In the winter of 2022, Van Welbergen reappeared on Loving Life TV to present images of blood samples on slides. During the segment, he highlighted more than 100 blood samples from both vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals. He also reported that the graphene shed from the COVID vaccine was large enough to block off blood flow within the capillaries. (Related: Spanish scientists find graphene oxide, nanotechnology in COVID-19 injections.)

After Van Welbergen studied the cellular structure of vaccinated patients, he discovered that the COVID-19 vaccine is potent enough to produce a magnetic effect on the graphene structures sides.

The resulting polarity became more prevalent as time progressed, suggesting a latent effect after getting the vaccine. In time, the graphene fibers from the vaccine interact with nearby blood cells, creating an electric charge or magnetism that results in several adverse effects.

Big Pharma may have intentionally designed mRNA shots to eliminate blood cells

Experts believe that Big Pharma intentionally designed the mRNA shots to eliminate blood cells, cause clotting and have many negative side effects, including sudden death.

The worst-case scenario is a nefarious partnership between Big Pharma, Big Government and an elite cabal with the final goal of population reduction through COVID-19 vaccines and booster shots.

In one study, a team of biologists, engineers and material scientists at Brown University analyzed graphenes potential toxicity in human cells. Results showed that the jagged edges of graphene nanoparticles, which are very sharp and strong, easily pierced through the cell membranes of human lung, skin and immune cells.

This alarming finding confirms that graphene can cause serious damage in humans and other animals.

Van Welbergen also said blood samples from the unvaccinated offspring of vaccinated parents unfortunately contain these damaging graphene shards.

Vaccines.news has more on studies that show the dangers of COVID-19 vaccines.

Watch the video below for more proof of graphene nanoparticles in COVID-19 vaccines.

This video is from Dr. Jane Rubys channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Graphene-laced face masks raise health concerns.

No one is safe: Vaccinated individuals can transmit graphene to the unvaccinated.

Aussie physician analyzes contents of covid jabs, finds graphene oxide and self-assembling nanocircuits.

Sources include:

NaturalHealth365.com

Expose-News.com

NewAtlas.com

Brighteon.com
(Natural News) In America, it is often considered a crime to expose government criminals, and those criminals will pursue the whistleblower like a terrorist. No, it doesnt make sense at all. Its like arresting a person for videotaping a bank robbery, letting the thieves get away with the stolen money, and treating the camera person as the criminal. How dare someone expose US government fraud, right? Arrest them as traitors, they say. Yet, has someone betrayed their country for exposing the government committing crimes? From war crimes to vaccine crimes to election crimes, it doesnt matter who the criminals are who get exposed, because under the tyranny of the military industrial war complex, the vaccine industrial complex, and the elaborate election fraud complex, only those who expose the fraud are criminals.

Many top officials in the US government and its agencies are the most evil people on planet Earth, and if you cross them, you pay the ultimate price

Many top officials in the US government function just like the mafia, as they pretend to protect you and your livelihood while stealing from you and threatening to take you out should you ever cross them by exposing their criminal activity. Take Julian Assange, for example, an Australian citizen who remains in prison (in London now a decade later) for publishing hundreds of thousands of LEAKED DOCUMENTS that revealed criminal behavior in the baseless US Wars on Afghanistan and Iraq.

The US entered both wars on false pretenses, and the Iraq War was for stealing oil (led by the Big Oil Bush Family and the Saudis), and the Afghanistan War was for stealing heroin for the prescription opioid epidemic (led by Donald Rumsfeld). As a journalist perfectly within his rights, Julian Assange published documents that proved war crimes, corruption, and human rights abuses were taking place in Afghanistan, but the US government wants him dead or in prison for life.

Supposedly, Assange is wanted for espionage and computer fraud for exposing war crimes that made the US government look evil. How dare someone expose evil at the top of the US government or military. Arrest the traitor!

With that kind of logic and ramifications in place for whistleblowers, what else applies? That must mean that if you witness a rape and you report it, you are the criminal. If you videotape a bank robber coming out of the bank with millions of dollars, then YOU are the criminal and YOU are responsible for all the money that was stolen.

If you report fraudulent ballots cast in an election, you are a domestic terrorist in the USA, according to Beijing Biden and fake news MSM.

If you report that millions of people are dying from the Covid spike protein clot shot vaccines, then you are guilty of spreading disease and worsening the pandemic.

Any person, even a lead scientist for the CDC, who tells the world the truth about the MMR vaccine, that it literally CAUSES autism in little boys, will be vilified as a traitor of this country, just like Dr. William Thompson is right now.

Top 6 whistleblower who are heroes but vilified as traitors and domestic terrorists by the highly corrupt U.S. Government

#1. Julian Assange

#2. Dr. William Thompson

#3. Edward Snowden

#4. Scott Ritter (told the truth about Ukraine War and is now named enemy #1 by the Ukrainian government for their kill list)

#5. The Covid Vaccine Whistleblowers: Dr. Robert Malone, Dr. Sheri Tenpenny, Dr. Judy Mikovitz et.al.

#6. The January 6th protestors (of the fraudulent 2020 POTUS election)

Anyone who reports the US-led and NATO-led atrocities in Ukraine is a traitor of the USA and a criminal who must be prosecuted to the full extent, according to the US government, mainstream media, and the communist tyrants in Washington DC. Take Scott Ritter, for example, who is blowing the whistle on US and NATO criminal activity in Ukraine, yet the US government wants to shut him down and put him in prison for it. No longer are whistleblowers protected or safe in America, especially under the Biden Regime, which is really just a continuation of the 8-year-long Obama Tyranny. How dare anyone expose that the USA is running biological warfare labs in Ukraine that violate the Geneva Convention and are prepping for dirty bombs to start WWIII.

Do your own research, and do NOT use Google. Try the search engine Brave BETA and get more truth news and real information. Tune your scamdemic frequency to Censored.news for truth news thats being censored from the rest of media as you read this.

Sources for this article include:

NaturalNews.com

Brighteon.com

TheGuardian.com
As the spring season unfolds, the latest weather report said that the Northwestern United States could experience chilly weather conditions this week.

Some parts of the country began to feel a rebound to warm-like temperatures this week due to the spring season.

As many Americans prepared for the spring, there could be a possibility that a late winter storm could emerge, affecting parts of the U.S.

Staying updated with the weather is important, as snow conditions could unfold in parts of the country, causing potential road hazards and slower commutes.

In the latest forecast, the National Weather Service (NWS) reported that dry and gusty winds are expected to unload in parts of the Mid-Atlantic, Southern Plains and Southern Rockies.

The weather forecast added that the second half of April could unload potential blizzard-like conditions as blizzard warnings are present in the Upper Midwest.

Furthermore, NWS explained that powerful spring storms could impact parts of the Great Lakes, as heavy snow and blizzard-like conditions could become concerning.

Isolated severe storms could also impact parts of the Southeast.

Colder temperatures and winter-like conditions

In the latest weather forecast, AccuWeather reported that unsettled weather could impact parts of the Northwestern states.

During the early weeks of April, portions of the U.S. recorded tornado outbreaks, winter storms and severe weather conditions, causing power outages and health concerns.

Also Read: Early-Spring Chill to Unfold in Central, Eastern US This Week

The latest forecast from AccuWeather showed that wet and chilly weather conditions could impact parts of the Northwestern US, especially Portland and Seattle.

Rain and snow could likely unfold this week, especially starting Tuesday.

Motorists and homeowners traveling this week should consider the weather before leaving their houses.

Bringing an umbrella or jacket is advisable, as rounds of rain could become likely this week.

Based on the weather outlook, rain is expected to unload in Portland, Seattle, Boise, Redding, Spokane and Salt Lake City.

Meanwhile, snow could unload in Medford, Helena and Medford.

Americans in the Northwestern US could feel colder temperatures this week, which could offer relief from warm-like temperatures.

The forecast also added that the potential moisture could unfold in parts of Central and Southern California this week.

On Wednesday, the weather forecast showed that rain and snow could become likely.

Rain is expected in Salt Lake City, Boise, Spokane and Portland.

Snow is forecast in Medford and Seattle.

Preparing for the snow and rainy conditions

The latest forecasts revealed that wintry weather conditions could emerge this week in parts of the U.S.

The wintry weather outlook could unload rain and snow in portions of the U.S.

The snow could cause potential travel hazards or concerns for motorists this week.

The rain and snow could result in slippery road conditions.

Motorists should drive slowly, and it is important to maintain a travel distance.

When the weather conditions worsen, it is best to reschedule your travel.

Related Article: US Weather Forecast: Damaging Wind Gusts, Hail Likely to Emerge in Parts of US This Week

For more similar, don't forget to follow Nature World News.
According to information published by the US DoD on April 18, 2023, the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Milius (DDG 69) conducted a Taiwan Strait transit.

Follow Navy Recognition on Google News at this link

Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS Milius. (Picture source: US Navy)

On April 11, 2023, the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) completed its "Joint Sword" exercises, which involved encircling the island of Taiwan.

USS Milius

The destroyer has a displacement of approximately 6,800 long tons when empty and 8,900 long tons when fully loaded. She measures 505 feet in length, 59 feet in beam, and has a draft of 31 feet. The propulsion system consists of two shafts that allow the ship to travel in excess of 30 knots.

USS Milius has a range of 4,400 nautical miles at 20 knots and has a crew of 33 commissioned officers, 38 chief petty officers, and 210 enlisted personnel.

She is equipped with several sensors and processing systems, including the AN/SPY-1D PESA 3D radar (Flight I, II, IIA), AN/SPY-6(V)1 AESA 3D radar (Flight III), AN/SPS-67(V)3 or (V)5 surface search radar, AN/SPQ-9B surface search and fire-control radar, AN/SPS-73(V)12 surface search/navigation radar, and the BridgeMaster E surface search/navigation radar.

The ship's armament includes a 5-inch (127 mm)/54 Mk 45 Mod 1/2 (lightweight gun), 2  20 mm Phalanx CIWS, 2  25 mm Mk 38 Machine Gun System, 4  .50 caliber (12.7 mm) guns, 2  Mk 141 Harpoon Anti-Ship Missile Launcher, and 1  29-cell, 1  61-cell (90 total cells) Mk 41 Vertical Launching System (VLS).

The VLS can launch a variety of missiles, including the RIM-66M Surface-to-Air Missile, RIM-156 Surface-to-Air Missile, RIM-161 Anti-Ballistic Missile, BGM-109 Tomahawk Cruise Missile, and RUM-139 Vertical Launch ASROC.

The destroyer also has 2  Mark 32 triple torpedo tubes that can launch Mark 46 Lightweight Torpedo, Mark 50 Lightweight Torpedo, and Mark 54 Lightweight Torpedo.
According to information published by the Argentine MoD on April 13, 2023, during his tour of Brazil, Defense Minister Jorge Taiana visited the "Itaguai Construcciones Navales (ICN)" shipyard.

Follow Navy Recognition on Google News at this link

Brazilian submarine Riachuelo. (Picture source: Naval Group)

The state-owned defense company specializes in naval nuclear engineering for the construction of submarines and is located in Itaguai, a municipality in the state of Rio de Janeiro.

Together with the Chief of the Argentine Navy, Admiral Julio Guardia, and TANDANOR authorities, Taiana was able to learn about the construction process of the "Scorpene" class submarine, one of the models Argentina is considering to regain its submarine capacity.

In July 2022, Taiana led a tour of France and Germany where he visited the shipyards of Naval Group and Thyssenkrupp to evaluate and learn about production processes, financing conditions, and technology transfer with Argentine participation through the Tandanor shipyard.

Itaguai was founded in 2009 with the goal of consolidating naval modernization of the armed forces in Brazil following cooperation agreements signed between Nicolas Sarkozy and Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva for the construction of four submarines, as well as to receive technology transfer of French diesel-electric submarines.

Since 2010, the shipyard staff received theoretical and technological training in France, and that same year, the construction of the first of the four Brazilian Scorpene-class submarines began.

In 2012, the pieces for the construction of the vessels were transferred from France and integrated with those built by the ICN. By 2013, the development and manufacture of parts began to be entirely in Brazil, leading to the construction of the second submarine.

In 2017 and 2018, construction of the Tonelero and Angostura submarines began, and in 2020, the ICN and the Brazilian Navy inaugurated the Submarine Base on Madeira Island, with the goal of continuing the construction of "Scorpene" submarines, as well as the construction of the nuclear submarine fleet, beginning with the Alvaro Alberto submarine, which by 2029 will be Brazil's first nuclear-powered attack submarine.

Scorpene class

The Brazilian variant of the Scorpene-class submarine is a type of submarine that has a displacement of 1,900 long tons and a length of 70.62 meters. She is powered by four MTU 12V 396 SE84 diesel engines, one Jeumont-Schneider EPM Magtronic electric motor, and has a maximum speed of 21 knots when surfaced or submerged.

Her range is 6,000 nautical miles when traveling at 8 knots when surfaced, and 550 nautical miles at 4 knots when submerged. The submarine has a complement of 32 crew members and is equipped with a DCNS Submarine Tactical Information and Command System, Thales DR 3000 ESM receiver, ITT AR 900, TSM 2233 Eledone, Safare & S-Cube, and DCNS Contralto-V. Her armament includes six 533 mm torpedo tubes, eight SM-39 Exocet or MANSUP anti-ship missiles, 18 F21 heavy torpedoes, and 30 naval mines.
The European model shows temperatures across Southeast Asia rising well above normal on Monday, 17 April 2023. Numerous heat records were broken across Southeast Asia, China and other parts of the continent in mid-April, with Thailand in particular experiencing unusually extreme conditions. Weather historian Maximiliano Herrera described it as the worst April heat wave in Asian history. Graphic: WeatherBell.com

By Dan Stillman

17 April 2023

(The Washington Post)  Numerous heat records have been broken across Southeast Asia, China and other parts of the continent in recent days as the region remains in the grip of a dangerously scorching heat wave, with Thailand in particular experiencing unusually extreme conditions. Weather historian Maximiliano Herrera is describing it as the worst April heat wave in Asian history.

April and May are typically Thailands hottest months, but the heat fueled the countrys all-time hottest temperature late last week. On Friday, Thailand surpassed 113 degrees Fahrenheit (45 Celsius) for the first time ever, topping out at 114 degrees (45.4 Celsius) in the town of Tak amid the countrys New Years celebration. Residents were advised to stay indoors to avoid heat stroke as several all-time heat records were set in the country.

Arabiaweather.com, a private weather company based in Jordan, reported that Thailands previous all-time record high was 112 degrees (44.6 Celsius), set in 2016 in Mae Hong Son province. Other all-time records reached Friday in Thailand include 112 degrees (44.6 Celsius) at Tak Airport and 110 degrees (43.5 Celsius) in Phetchabun.

Thai authorities have issued health warnings as meteorologists estimate temperatures of up to [122 degrees] in the sun, according to Arabiaweather.com, which also reported that smog has caused thousands of people to develop respiratory problems and sore throats in recent weeks.

Map showing temperatures in Asia on 14 April 2023. Graphic: Scott Duncan WX

Meanwhile, hundreds of weather stations across China have seen their warmest April temperatures on record. Climate specialist Jim Yang tweeted that 109 weather stations across 12 provinces broke their record for high temperature for April on Monday. An additional nine stations tied their April record for high temperature.

In another tweet, Yang noted that Mondays high of 101 degrees (38.2 Celsius) in Yunhe was the highest April temperature on record in the Zhejiang province, beating the previous record by 1.6 Celsius, while Hangzhou reached 95 degrees (35 Celsius) for the first time ever in April. All that was after the temperature climbed past 95 degrees in 10 Chinese provinces on Sunday, according to Yang.

China also reportedly saw its first tornado of the year this past weekend in Linyi in Shandong province.

Chinas hottest months are typically June and July. Last year, the temperature reached as high as 113 degrees (45 Celsius) in Beibei in Chongquing province during a record-setting summer heat wave that dried up rivers and sparked forest fires.

The hot days had been accumulating over the past few weeks, with Yuanjiang in Hunan province having exceeded 95 degrees (35 Celsius) for 22 straight days as of Friday.

The temperature exceeded 45C for the first time in the history of #Thailand on 15 April 2023: 45.4C in Tak (agrometeorological station), exceeding the national heat record for all months combined (44.6C Mae Hong Son 28-4-2016). Other stations also broke their all-time records. Graphic: Etienne Kapikian

Studies have found that human-induced climate change is increasing the intensity and duration of heat waves in China.

Elsewhere in the region, temperatures reached 112 degrees (44.6 Celsius) on Monday in Prayagraj, India. And in Bangladesh, the high temperature reached 109 degrees (43.0 Celsius) in Ishurdi, tying the April record for warmest temperature. Kalewa, Myanmar, set a new April high of 111 degrees (44.0 Celsius), while Nepal got to 107 degrees (41.7 Celsius). Bangladeshs capital, Dhaka, reached 105 degrees (40.6 Celsius) on Sunday, its highest temperature for any month in decades, but still below the record of 42.3 Celsius set in 1960, Herrera tweeted.

Several cities in Laos also set all-time heat records in recent days, including 107 degrees (41.6 Celsius) reached in Luang Prabang, 107 degrees (41.5 Celsius) in Phonhong, 107 degrees (41.4 Celsius) in Vientiane and 107 degrees (41.4 Celsius) in Sayaboury.

Turkmenistan achieved its highest April temperature on record Thursday with a high of 108 degrees (42.2 Celsius). Little relief was to be found at night, either, with temperatures in Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan dropping only to 82 degrees (28 Celsius). [more]

Historic Asia heat breaks hundreds of records, with extremes in Thailand and China
Chinese vendor ZTE has won two more notable contracts. One, in India, is from Vodafone Idea. The other, in Brazil, is from new entrant Unifique.

Vodafone Idea has awarded an optical transmission equipment network order worth some Rs 230 crore (about US$ 29.2 million) to ZTE for Gujarat, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh-Chhattisgarh (MP-CG) as part of network upgrades.

However, a number of news outlets have pointed out that rules on network deployment or upgrade and maintenance require the contracted company to be approved by India's National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS). That doesnt seem to have happened yet.

In December 2020 India approved the National Security Directive on the Telecommunication Sector; this mandates service providers to purchase equipment from trusted sources. Under the provisions of this directive, the government declares a list of trusted sources and products for installation in the country's telecom network.

It's not clear whether there is a 5G component to this contract, though the timing is interesting. We reported last week that Kumar Mangalam Birla, chairman of global conglomerate the Aditya Birla Group, and one of the shareholders of Vodafone Idea, had been heard on Indian TV saying the operator is to begin its 5G rollout soon.

Meanwhile, Unifique, an internet provider in Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul in Brazil, and a newcomer to the mobile internet space, has also signed a 5G-related agreement with ZTE.

Unifique joined forces with a company called Copel Telecom (now Ligga), which operates in Parana to win spectrum from 3,620 MHz to 3,700 MHz in the 5G auction held by regulator Anatel in 2021.

There appears to be no further information on the size or scope of the contract but Unifique is starting to test 5G technology this month and expects to launch its commercial networks by June in the Southern Region.
Latest job opportunities

Use this website to help find the best person to fill your role. This is a paid-for service aiming at advertising jobs which are of interest to the Norwich and Norfolk Christian community and its many churches, groups and organisations.

To advertise a vacancy, simply e-mail the details such as job and person specifications, approx salary, contact details and a closing date to us here .

For full details of the service, and our cost-effective fee, please click here.

Word of thanks

Stewart Barber, Eckling Grange Care

We had a great advert on Network Norwich for many weeks with great layout, unlimited words, colour logo and a direct link from the weekly newsletter! We also found our new manager through the website.

Tom Howell, Halls of Residence

Thank you for all your help with our recruiting process during 2019. We have some great new staff at the Matthew Project as a result. God bless."We had a good response to our advert on Network Norwich for a Project Worker. We were able to short-list some very possible applicants and have now made an appointment of a lady whom we expect to fit well into our existing team and who brings to us some useful past experience.Thank you for your help, what a useful medium this is.""We see the Network Norfolk website as a good place to advertise the organisation and Im very pleased to say that the recent advert for an account assistant led to an appointment."
By ANI

MUMBAI: Good News!! Actor Ileana D'Cruz, on Tuesday early morning made a big announcement that she is now expecting her first child.

Taking to Instagram, Ileana dropped a couple of pictures which she captioned, "Coming soon can't wait to meet you my little darling."

In the first picture, the 'Barfi' actor posted an image of a baby's clothes with the text "And so the adventure begins" written on it.

In another picture, the actor dropped a picture of her pendant with the initials "Mama".

She, however, did not reveal the name of her partner.

Soon after she broke the news, fans swamped the comment section with red heart emoticons and congratulatory messages.

From the very beginning, Ileana has been extremely tight-lipped about her personal life.

Earlier several reports suggested that Ileana is dating Katrina Kaif's brother Sebastian Laurent Michel. The duo's relationship rumours surfaced after the two were spotted vacationing with Vicky Kaushal and Katrina Kaif in the Maldives.

Although the couple has still not made their relationship official.

Ileana was earlier in a relationship with photographer Andrew Kneebone for quite a few years.

Meanwhile, on the work front, Ileana was last seen in The Big Bull, co-starring Abhishek Bachchan. The film was directed by filmmaker Kookie Gulati and it was produced by Ajay Devgn. She will be next seen in 'Unfair And Lovely' with Randeep Hooda.

MUMBAI: Good News!! Actor Ileana D'Cruz, on Tuesday early morning made a big announcement that she is now expecting her first child. Taking to Instagram, Ileana dropped a couple of pictures which she captioned, "Coming soon can't wait to meet you my little darling." In the first picture, the 'Barfi' actor posted an image of a baby's clothes with the text "And so the adventure begins" written on it.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ileana D'Cruz (@ileana_official) In another picture, the actor dropped a picture of her pendant with the initials "Mama". She, however, did not reveal the name of her partner. Soon after she broke the news, fans swamped the comment section with red heart emoticons and congratulatory messages. From the very beginning, Ileana has been extremely tight-lipped about her personal life. Earlier several reports suggested that Ileana is dating Katrina Kaif's brother Sebastian Laurent Michel. The duo's relationship rumours surfaced after the two were spotted vacationing with Vicky Kaushal and Katrina Kaif in the Maldives. Although the couple has still not made their relationship official. Ileana was earlier in a relationship with photographer Andrew Kneebone for quite a few years. Meanwhile, on the work front, Ileana was last seen in The Big Bull, co-starring Abhishek Bachchan. The film was directed by filmmaker Kookie Gulati and it was produced by Ajay Devgn. She will be next seen in 'Unfair And Lovely' with Randeep Hooda.
Now Telecom completed the last bit of paperwork needed to secure a full grant from the US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA), paving the way forward to construct its full 5G network for the Philippines-based operator.

CNN Philippines reported the agency will also provide technical assistance to Nows ambitions to build a nationwide standalone 5G network.

The Now Corporation-owned operator said: This marks the completion of the execution of all the required documents for the USTDA Project. The Project is now in full swing."

Now Telecom is partnering with Nokia research arm Bell Labs Consulting for further technical assistance, covering the designs and analysis of the phased deployment of its 5G network.

Now Corporation chairman Mel Velarde revealed to Developing Telecoms the initial round of funds from the US government was US$1.5 million to activate five Nokia-built nodes in the Metro Manila area as a pilot.
Namita Bajpai By

Express News Service

LUCKNOW: With the murder of gangster-turned-politician Atiq Ahmed and his brother Khalid Azeem aka Ashraf, the focus of the Uttar Pradesh police has now shifted to Atiqs wife Shaista Parveen to unravel the truth behind the Umesh Pal murder. Shaista has eluded the police net for almost two months, having been absconding since February 26, two days after the murder of Umesh Pal and his two police guards.

Shaista, Zainab Fatima (Ashrafs wife), Atiqs sister Aisha Noori and her daughters are all among the accused in Umesh Pal murder case. However, Shaista is carrying a reward of Rs 50,000 on her arrest. Meanwhile, Bombbaaz Guddu Muslim, one of the closest aides of Atiq and wanted in Umesh Pal murder case is also absconding, carrying a reward of Rs 5 lakh on his head. UP STF chief Amitabh Yash claims that Guddu Muslim will soon be in the police net.

While the Prayagraj police administration had been expecting a surrender by Atiqs wife Shaista Parveen after the encounter of her son Asad on April 13 followed by Atiq and Ashrafs killing on Saturday night, she neither surrendered nor did she make any effort to attend the burial of Asad or that of Atiq and Ashraf. As per police sources, multiple teams were tracing Shaista Parveen as after the killing of Atiq and Ashraf, it was she who could spill beans about procurement of the sophisticated weapons used to kill Umesh Pal by Atiqs gang, the arrangement of money for the assailants and other crucial details.

ALSO READ | In UP badlands, will Atiq's killing see new breed of criminals who seek fame by targeting bigger fish?

The interrogation of Shaista is crucial to breach the network through which Atiq gang used to procure ultra-modern and sophisticated weapons. Both Atiq and Ashraf had hinted during their grilling in police remand that Shaista was handling monetary transactions and was running the illegal real estate business while both the brothers were away in jail, said a senior police source. The investigation so far had hinted at Shaistas active involvement in handing over money, sim cards etc to the Umesh Pal shooters, added the official. A resident of Damupur village of Prayagraj, Shaista was married to Atiq in 1996. She is the eldest among four sisters and two brothers. Her father Mohammad Harun is a retired police constable.

Significantly, with half a dozen accused, including Asad, Atiq and Ashraf, in the Umesh Pal murder dead, Shaista is the only important link to unravel the truth. Moreover, Shaista was Atiqs key connection to the outside world since 2017 when he was sent to jail. She is also a potential source to reveal details of individuals who helped Atiq run his illegal empire of benami properties in UP and outside, said another senior police official.

She can also spill the beans about Atiqs associates who were making profits in his name and throw light on those from whom Atiq had death threats, said an officer. So far, the Prayagraj administration has attached Atiqs properties worth around Rs 417 crore and has demolished worth over Rs 752 crore in the past three years. Those who were close to Atiq disclosed that he used to invest his illegally earned money into other businesses and projects through his white collared partners including politicians, builders, realtors, big contractors, hotel owners, doctors, lawyers etc. He made investments in their projects and used to draw profits which used to reach Shaista.

Highly placed sources in Prayagraj also claim that Shaista did not surrender yet as she knew that in her absence, there would be no one to look after Atiqs empire of crores and that his property and assets would usurped by his henchmen and associates.

In fact, Atiq had purchased properties worth crores in the name of his associates and henchmen. Earlier, his properties were identified in Prayagraj, Kaushambi, Lucknow and some 20 other districts. Moreover, Atiqs benami properties and investments are also believed be in many other states.

Shaista, 51, has four criminal cases registered against her at Colonelganj and Dhoomanganj police stations of Prayagraj. The first three cases filed at Colonelganj police station date back to 2009 and were registered under different sections of the Indian Penal Code, including 420 (cheating), 467 (forgery of valuable security or will), 468 (forgery for purpose of cheating) and 471 (using forged document) besides section 30 (contravention of licence or rule) of the Arms Act. In these three cases, charge sheets have been filed by the police at the court of special chief judicial magistrate, Prayagraj.

However, the fourth case registered on February 24, 2023 at Dhoomanganj police station relates to the murders of lawyer Umesh Pal, a prime witness in the 2005 BSP MLA Raju Pal murder case, and his two police guards.

LUCKNOW: With the murder of gangster-turned-politician Atiq Ahmed and his brother Khalid Azeem aka Ashraf, the focus of the Uttar Pradesh police has now shifted to Atiqs wife Shaista Parveen to unravel the truth behind the Umesh Pal murder. Shaista has eluded the police net for almost two months, having been absconding since February 26, two days after the murder of Umesh Pal and his two police guards. Shaista, Zainab Fatima (Ashrafs wife), Atiqs sister Aisha Noori and her daughters are all among the accused in Umesh Pal murder case. However, Shaista is carrying a reward of Rs 50,000 on her arrest. Meanwhile, Bombbaaz Guddu Muslim, one of the closest aides of Atiq and wanted in Umesh Pal murder case is also absconding, carrying a reward of Rs 5 lakh on his head. UP STF chief Amitabh Yash claims that Guddu Muslim will soon be in the police net. While the Prayagraj police administration had been expecting a surrender by Atiqs wife Shaista Parveen after the encounter of her son Asad on April 13 followed by Atiq and Ashrafs killing on Saturday night, she neither surrendered nor did she make any effort to attend the burial of Asad or that of Atiq and Ashraf. As per police sources, multiple teams were tracing Shaista Parveen as after the killing of Atiq and Ashraf, it was she who could spill beans about procurement of the sophisticated weapons used to kill Umesh Pal by Atiqs gang, the arrangement of money for the assailants and other crucial details.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); ALSO READ | In UP badlands, will Atiq's killing see new breed of criminals who seek fame by targeting bigger fish? The interrogation of Shaista is crucial to breach the network through which Atiq gang used to procure ultra-modern and sophisticated weapons. Both Atiq and Ashraf had hinted during their grilling in police remand that Shaista was handling monetary transactions and was running the illegal real estate business while both the brothers were away in jail, said a senior police source. The investigation so far had hinted at Shaistas active involvement in handing over money, sim cards etc to the Umesh Pal shooters, added the official. A resident of Damupur village of Prayagraj, Shaista was married to Atiq in 1996. She is the eldest among four sisters and two brothers. Her father Mohammad Harun is a retired police constable. Significantly, with half a dozen accused, including Asad, Atiq and Ashraf, in the Umesh Pal murder dead, Shaista is the only important link to unravel the truth. Moreover, Shaista was Atiqs key connection to the outside world since 2017 when he was sent to jail. She is also a potential source to reveal details of individuals who helped Atiq run his illegal empire of benami properties in UP and outside, said another senior police official. She can also spill the beans about Atiqs associates who were making profits in his name and throw light on those from whom Atiq had death threats, said an officer. So far, the Prayagraj administration has attached Atiqs properties worth around Rs 417 crore and has demolished worth over Rs 752 crore in the past three years. Those who were close to Atiq disclosed that he used to invest his illegally earned money into other businesses and projects through his white collared partners including politicians, builders, realtors, big contractors, hotel owners, doctors, lawyers etc. He made investments in their projects and used to draw profits which used to reach Shaista. Highly placed sources in Prayagraj also claim that Shaista did not surrender yet as she knew that in her absence, there would be no one to look after Atiqs empire of crores and that his property and assets would usurped by his henchmen and associates. In fact, Atiq had purchased properties worth crores in the name of his associates and henchmen. Earlier, his properties were identified in Prayagraj, Kaushambi, Lucknow and some 20 other districts. Moreover, Atiqs benami properties and investments are also believed be in many other states. Shaista, 51, has four criminal cases registered against her at Colonelganj and Dhoomanganj police stations of Prayagraj. The first three cases filed at Colonelganj police station date back to 2009 and were registered under different sections of the Indian Penal Code, including 420 (cheating), 467 (forgery of valuable security or will), 468 (forgery for purpose of cheating) and 471 (using forged document) besides section 30 (contravention of licence or rule) of the Arms Act. In these three cases, charge sheets have been filed by the police at the court of special chief judicial magistrate, Prayagraj. However, the fourth case registered on February 24, 2023 at Dhoomanganj police station relates to the murders of lawyer Umesh Pal, a prime witness in the 2005 BSP MLA Raju Pal murder case, and his two police guards.
By ANI

EAST CHAMPARAN: The toll in Bihar's Motihari due to suspected consumption of hooch or spurious liquor climbed to 27, police informed on Monday.

Further, according to the police, Motihari Superintendent of Police (SP) Kantesh Kumar Mishra suspended 5 station house officers (SHOs), 2 Anti-Liquor Task Force (ALTF) personnel and 9 police watchmen (chowkidars) in the wake of the suspected hooch deaths.

Meanwhile, former Bihar deputy chief minister Sushil Kumar Modi welcomed the state government's decision to announce relief for the affected families of the victims.

"We welcome Nitish Kumar's decision to allot Rs 4 lakh each as compensation to the next-of-kin of the dead," Modi said.

However, while welcoming the announcement of relief for the bereaved kin, the senior BJP leader blamed the suspected hooch deaths on the Nitish government.

"CM Nitish Kumar and his government are responsible for the incident as in 1 year, 16 such incidents have taken place in the state resulting in the loss of 300 lives," he said.

ALSO READ | Hooch tragedy: Bihar govt announces to provide Rs 4 lakh as compensation to victims

Meanwhile, the police said they have, so far, arrested 174 people in connection with the latest wave of the suspected hooch deaths, adding that 1729.53 litres of country liquor and 49.855 litres of English liquor were seized as well during raids.

On Monday, Nitish Kumar said his government would provide Rs 4 lakh each to the kin of the deceased, provided they give an undertaking in favour of a liquor ban in the state.

"This is a sad incident. We'll provide Rs 4 lakh each to the families of the deceased from the CM Relief Fund. But they should also give us an undertaking in writing that they are in favour of the liquor ban currently in force in the state and that they are against liquor addiction," the Bihar CM said.

The sale and consumption of alcohol were banned in Bihar by the Nitish government in April 2016.

EAST CHAMPARAN: The toll in Bihar's Motihari due to suspected consumption of hooch or spurious liquor climbed to 27, police informed on Monday. Further, according to the police, Motihari Superintendent of Police (SP) Kantesh Kumar Mishra suspended 5 station house officers (SHOs), 2 Anti-Liquor Task Force (ALTF) personnel and 9 police watchmen (chowkidars) in the wake of the suspected hooch deaths. Meanwhile, former Bihar deputy chief minister Sushil Kumar Modi welcomed the state government's decision to announce relief for the affected families of the victims.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); "We welcome Nitish Kumar's decision to allot Rs 4 lakh each as compensation to the next-of-kin of the dead," Modi said. However, while welcoming the announcement of relief for the bereaved kin, the senior BJP leader blamed the suspected hooch deaths on the Nitish government. "CM Nitish Kumar and his government are responsible for the incident as in 1 year, 16 such incidents have taken place in the state resulting in the loss of 300 lives," he said. ALSO READ | Hooch tragedy: Bihar govt announces to provide Rs 4 lakh as compensation to victims Meanwhile, the police said they have, so far, arrested 174 people in connection with the latest wave of the suspected hooch deaths, adding that 1729.53 litres of country liquor and 49.855 litres of English liquor were seized as well during raids. On Monday, Nitish Kumar said his government would provide Rs 4 lakh each to the kin of the deceased, provided they give an undertaking in favour of a liquor ban in the state. "This is a sad incident. We'll provide Rs 4 lakh each to the families of the deceased from the CM Relief Fund. But they should also give us an undertaking in writing that they are in favour of the liquor ban currently in force in the state and that they are against liquor addiction," the Bihar CM said. The sale and consumption of alcohol were banned in Bihar by the Nitish government in April 2016.
By PTI

PRAYAGRAJ: A crude bomb was hurled in a bylane near the residence of a lawyer of Atiq Ahmad on Tuesday, sparking panic in the area as the incident came just three days after the sensational killing of the gangster-turned-politician and his brother.

No one was injured in the incident in Katra locality here and a case has been registered, police said and claimed Atiq's lawyer Dayashankar Mishra was not the target and the incident was a fallout of personal enmity between two youths.

However, the lawyer claimed that it was an attempt "to create fear and terror".

In a statement issued in Lucknow, Special Director General of Police (Law and Order) Prashant Kumar said, "On getting information about a bomb being hurled in Gobarwali Gali, police reached the spot. it emerged that Harshit Sonkar had a dispute with Akash Singh, Raunak Yadav and Chhote Singh, due to which Harshit attacked them with a bomb. However, no one was injured. This attack took place in a bylane in front of the residence of Dayashankar Mishra. However, rumour is being spread that Dayashankar Mishra was attacked. This is false information. The spot is being inspected and there is no problem of law and order," the statement said.

WATCH |

Though Atiq's lawyer, who rushed to the house from the court on getting information about the incident, said his daughter and locals told him about three bombs, the police maintained that only one crude bomb exploded.

Assistant Commissioner of Police, Shivkuti, Rajesh Kumar Yadav said the culprit will be arrested soon.

"I was in the court when my son informed me that bombs had been hurled. I rushed home. I think this has been done to frighten me, to create terror. It is a big conspiracy. It is for the police to find out who is behind this," Atiq's lawyer Dayashankar Mishra told reporters.

"My daughter and the locals saw that there was one person involved and three bombs were hurled," he claimed.

VIDEO | "Three bombs were hurled. I think there is a big conspiracy behind this. All this is being done to intimidate me," claims Daya Shankar Mishra, lawyer of slain gangster Atiq Ahmad, on crude bomb explosions near his house. pic.twitter.com/9fYt1VuVta  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) April 18, 2023

Mishra had represented Atiq Ahmad and his brother Ashraf in the 2006 case of abduction of Umesh Pal, who was a witness in the 2005 murder of then BSP MLA Raju Pal and was shot dead on February 24 this year allegedly at the gangster's behest.

Atiq Ahmad (60) and his brother Ashraf were shot dead at point-blank range by three men posing as journalists during a media scrum on Saturday night while police personnel were escorting the duo to a medical college in Prayagraj for a checkup.

The brothers, both jailed in Prayagraj, were in handcuffs when they were killed on Saturday night in full view of camera crews around 10 pm.

The three assailants - Lavlesh Tiwari (22) of Banda, Mohit alias Sunny (23) of Hamirpur and Arun Maurya (18) of Kasganj - were arrested soon after the dramatic shootout that took place in full view of camera crews outside the Prayagraj hospital.

They were shifted to Pratapgarh jail Monday from Naini jail in Prayagraj for security reasons.

Atiq's son is also lodged in Naini jail.

READ MORE |

After Atiq murder, cops' focus shifts to absconding wife Shaista to unravel truth in Umesh Pal case

In UP badlands, will Atiq's killing see new breed of criminals who seek fame by targeting bigger fish?

PRAYAGRAJ: A crude bomb was hurled in a bylane near the residence of a lawyer of Atiq Ahmad on Tuesday, sparking panic in the area as the incident came just three days after the sensational killing of the gangster-turned-politician and his brother. No one was injured in the incident in Katra locality here and a case has been registered, police said and claimed Atiq's lawyer Dayashankar Mishra was not the target and the incident was a fallout of personal enmity between two youths. However, the lawyer claimed that it was an attempt "to create fear and terror".googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); In a statement issued in Lucknow, Special Director General of Police (Law and Order) Prashant Kumar said, "On getting information about a bomb being hurled in Gobarwali Gali, police reached the spot. it emerged that Harshit Sonkar had a dispute with Akash Singh, Raunak Yadav and Chhote Singh, due to which Harshit attacked them with a bomb. However, no one was injured. This attack took place in a bylane in front of the residence of Dayashankar Mishra. However, rumour is being spread that Dayashankar Mishra was attacked. This is false information. The spot is being inspected and there is no problem of law and order," the statement said. WATCH | Though Atiq's lawyer, who rushed to the house from the court on getting information about the incident, said his daughter and locals told him about three bombs, the police maintained that only one crude bomb exploded. Assistant Commissioner of Police, Shivkuti, Rajesh Kumar Yadav said the culprit will be arrested soon. "I was in the court when my son informed me that bombs had been hurled. I rushed home. I think this has been done to frighten me, to create terror. It is a big conspiracy. It is for the police to find out who is behind this," Atiq's lawyer Dayashankar Mishra told reporters. "My daughter and the locals saw that there was one person involved and three bombs were hurled," he claimed. VIDEO | "Three bombs were hurled. I think there is a big conspiracy behind this. All this is being done to intimidate me," claims Daya Shankar Mishra, lawyer of slain gangster Atiq Ahmad, on crude bomb explosions near his house. pic.twitter.com/9fYt1VuVta  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) April 18, 2023 Mishra had represented Atiq Ahmad and his brother Ashraf in the 2006 case of abduction of Umesh Pal, who was a witness in the 2005 murder of then BSP MLA Raju Pal and was shot dead on February 24 this year allegedly at the gangster's behest. Atiq Ahmad (60) and his brother Ashraf were shot dead at point-blank range by three men posing as journalists during a media scrum on Saturday night while police personnel were escorting the duo to a medical college in Prayagraj for a checkup. The brothers, both jailed in Prayagraj, were in handcuffs when they were killed on Saturday night in full view of camera crews around 10 pm. The three assailants - Lavlesh Tiwari (22) of Banda, Mohit alias Sunny (23) of Hamirpur and Arun Maurya (18) of Kasganj - were arrested soon after the dramatic shootout that took place in full view of camera crews outside the Prayagraj hospital. They were shifted to Pratapgarh jail Monday from Naini jail in Prayagraj for security reasons. Atiq's son is also lodged in Naini jail. READ MORE | After Atiq murder, cops' focus shifts to absconding wife Shaista to unravel truth in Umesh Pal case In UP badlands, will Atiq's killing see new breed of criminals who seek fame by targeting bigger fish?
Mukesh Ranjan By

Express News Service

RANCHI: In a shocking revelation by Right to Education (RTE) activists, as many as 22 per cent of the students enrolled in government schools in Jharkhand are studying in single-teacher schools which means every fifth child is devoid of proper education.

As per Unified District Information System (UDIS) for Education, Jharkhand tops among 22 states in the country where nearly 22 per cent of the total students enrolled in government schools, have been studying in single-teacher schools, said RTE activist Paran Amitava associated with development economist Jean

Dreze.

Single-teacher schools are spread all over the state but Ranchi, Dumka and West Singbhum have the highest number of single-teacher schools, she added.

Furthermore, out of these 6904 (30 per cent) single-teacher schools in Jharkhand, 6388 are primary schools, which means 93 per cent of all single-teacher schools are primary schools, said Paran.

The members of Gyan Vigyan Samiti working for the Right to Education claimed that many schools in Jharkhand are single-teacher schools since the beginning. Teachers are retiring every year but are not being hired by the government.

Earlier this month, on April 13, parents of students, educationists and social rights activists took out a rally in a block in Latehar district to protest against running government schools by a single teacher, which they termed as a "gross violation" of the Right to Education Act (RTE). Development economist Jean Dreze was also a part of the protest march.

Gram pradhans of various villages, school committee members and parents of children under the banner of Sanyukta Gram Sabha Manch Garu sent a letter to the Chief Minister Hemant Soren underlining the education scenario.

We have urged CM Hemant Soren to hire teachers so that there are no more single-teacher schools in the state. We also urged him to look at the letter written by villagers from Garu who have come out of their homes for their childs right to education, said Vishwanath Singh of Gyan Vigyan Samiti. They are voicing the opinion of all parents across the state, he added.

The letter reads, It is impossible to provide quality education in single-teacher schools. The children are left to themselves when the teacher is absent or busy with record-keeping. Even when the teacher is available, how is she supposed to teach children of five different grades on her own? In Garu, single-teacher schools have 48 pupils on average. One of them has 145 pupils!

RANCHI: In a shocking revelation by Right to Education (RTE) activists, as many as 22 per cent of the students enrolled in government schools in Jharkhand are studying in single-teacher schools which means every fifth child is devoid of proper education. As per Unified District Information System (UDIS) for Education, Jharkhand tops among 22 states in the country where nearly 22 per cent of the total students enrolled in government schools, have been studying in single-teacher schools, said RTE activist Paran Amitava associated with development economist Jean Dreze. Single-teacher schools are spread all over the state but Ranchi, Dumka and West Singbhum have the highest number of single-teacher schools, she added.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Furthermore, out of these 6904 (30 per cent) single-teacher schools in Jharkhand, 6388 are primary schools, which means 93 per cent of all single-teacher schools are primary schools, said Paran. The members of Gyan Vigyan Samiti working for the Right to Education claimed that many schools in Jharkhand are single-teacher schools since the beginning. Teachers are retiring every year but are not being hired by the government. Earlier this month, on April 13, parents of students, educationists and social rights activists took out a rally in a block in Latehar district to protest against running government schools by a single teacher, which they termed as a "gross violation" of the Right to Education Act (RTE). Development economist Jean Dreze was also a part of the protest march. Gram pradhans of various villages, school committee members and parents of children under the banner of Sanyukta Gram Sabha Manch Garu sent a letter to the Chief Minister Hemant Soren underlining the education scenario. We have urged CM Hemant Soren to hire teachers so that there are no more single-teacher schools in the state. We also urged him to look at the letter written by villagers from Garu who have come out of their homes for their childs right to education, said Vishwanath Singh of Gyan Vigyan Samiti. They are voicing the opinion of all parents across the state, he added. The letter reads, It is impossible to provide quality education in single-teacher schools. The children are left to themselves when the teacher is absent or busy with record-keeping. Even when the teacher is available, how is she supposed to teach children of five different grades on her own? In Garu, single-teacher schools have 48 pupils on average. One of them has 145 pupils!
Sudhir Suryawanshi By

Express News Service

MUMBAI: NCP leader Ajit Pawars efforts to become Eknath Shindes successor as Maharashtra chief minister in alliance with the BJP, is gaining momentum with the former collecting consent signatures from his lawmakers within his party.

About 40 of the 53 NCP MLAs have given their consent signatures so far. The list would be presented to the governor when the time arrives, said a well placed source in the party. This newspaper was the first to report Ajits plans of stepping into Shindes shoes, assuming the Supreme Court would disqualify the Sena lawmakers who had rebelled against Uddhav Thackeray.

ALSO READ | Ajit Pawar has made up his mind, says Senas Raut

What is intriguing though is the stony silence of NCP patriarch Sharad Pawar. While Ajit is calling up NCP MLAs personally to seek their signatures, the senior Pawar hasnt made any counter move yet. In 2019 after Ajit bolted, Sharad Pawar had called up all NCP lawmakers to keep his party intact.

We are surprised Sharad Pawar has not made his phone calls yet, said sources, while keeping their fingers crossed on his last-minute intervention that could tilt the scales. Ajit skipped his days scheduled events in Pune and stayed put in Mumbai to continue discussions with his close confidants.

Independent MLA Ravi Rana, who is close to Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, said the turning point will come once Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union home minister Amit Shah give their green light.The BJP is weighing options of timing Shindes exit  before or after the Supreme Courts verdict or before the Karnataka elections.

Some legal experts have advised that this change should happen before the SC verdict. The logic: if Ajit is sworn in before the judgment, the new government would neither fall nor damage the BJPs prospects. Things are going back and forth. A final call is awaited, said a source in the BJP.

Seniors too with Ajit

Many senior NCP MLAs seen as close to Sharad Pawar, too, are extending support to Ajit Pawars coup, sources said



MUMBAI: NCP leader Ajit Pawars efforts to become Eknath Shindes successor as Maharashtra chief minister in alliance with the BJP, is gaining momentum with the former collecting consent signatures from his lawmakers within his party. About 40 of the 53 NCP MLAs have given their consent signatures so far. The list would be presented to the governor when the time arrives, said a well placed source in the party. This newspaper was the first to report Ajits plans of stepping into Shindes shoes, assuming the Supreme Court would disqualify the Sena lawmakers who had rebelled against Uddhav Thackeray. ALSO READ | Ajit Pawar has made up his mind, says Senas Rautgoogletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); What is intriguing though is the stony silence of NCP patriarch Sharad Pawar. While Ajit is calling up NCP MLAs personally to seek their signatures, the senior Pawar hasnt made any counter move yet. In 2019 after Ajit bolted, Sharad Pawar had called up all NCP lawmakers to keep his party intact. We are surprised Sharad Pawar has not made his phone calls yet, said sources, while keeping their fingers crossed on his last-minute intervention that could tilt the scales. Ajit skipped his days scheduled events in Pune and stayed put in Mumbai to continue discussions with his close confidants. Independent MLA Ravi Rana, who is close to Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, said the turning point will come once Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union home minister Amit Shah give their green light.The BJP is weighing options of timing Shindes exit  before or after the Supreme Courts verdict or before the Karnataka elections. Some legal experts have advised that this change should happen before the SC verdict. The logic: if Ajit is sworn in before the judgment, the new government would neither fall nor damage the BJPs prospects. Things are going back and forth. A final call is awaited, said a source in the BJP. Seniors too with Ajit Many senior NCP MLAs seen as close to Sharad Pawar, too, are extending support to Ajit Pawars coup, sources said
By PTI

PUNE: Nationalist Congress Party chief Sharad Pawar on Tuesday dismissed speculation about his nephew and senior party leader Ajit Pawar's next political move and said no meeting of NCP MLAs has been called by anyone.

He also said Ajit Pawar was busy with the party's work and that there was no need for the media to drag the issue.

Earlier on Monday, Ajit Pawar also dismissed as false the reports that he has called a meeting of MLAs on Tuesday, amid intense speculation in Maharashtra's political circles about his growing proximity with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Rumours about Ajit Pawar's next political move started swirling last week when he suddenly cancelled his scheduled meetings and also made comments which were seen as being soft on the BJP and Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's camp.

The BJP is part of the Shinde government.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Sunday added grist to the rumour mill claiming Sharad Pawar recently told Uddhav Thackeray that his party will never join hands with the BJP even if anyone takes an individual decision to do so.

READ HERE |

Maharashtra: Ajit Pawar gets signatures of 40 ready to bolt

Ajit Pawar dismisses reports linking him to BJP, denies calling meeting of NCP MLAs

Speaking to the reporters in Purandar area of Maharashtra's Pune district on Tuesday, Sharad Pawar said whatever discussions are going on in the minds of the media are not there in "our minds". "There is no importance of all these discussions. The reports have no meaning. Somebody is trying to create news. I can say about NCP that all our colleagues are of one thinking of how to make the party stronger, and there is no other thought in anybody's mind," the NCP chief said.

Sharad Pawar, whose party is a constituent of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) which also comprises the Shiv Sena (UBT) and Congress, dismissed reports of a meeting of NCP MLAs being called in Mumbai and said no one has called such a meeting. "I read in the newspapers about the meeting of (NCP) MLAs. But, it is 100 per cent true that there is no such meeting (taking place), and no one has called such a meeting," he said.

"The party's state president (Jayant Patil) is busy with market committee elections in his region, and another party leader, Ajit Pawar, is also busy with the work of the party and providing guidance to everyone," he added.

The NCP chief said after his clarification, the media has no right to drag the issue. He was responding to queries from mediapersons on reports speculating about Ajit Pawar and the party MLAs going with him.

Sharad Pawar also said after his programmes in Pune, he will head to Mumbai.

Asked about Congress leader KC Venugopal's meeting with Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray at the latter's residence 'Matoshree' in Mumbai, Sharad Pawar said he, Rahul Gandhi, AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge and Venugopal had met in Delhi.

"The agenda was to convene a meeting of opposition leaders at a national level and chalk out a programme, and Venugopal had come to Matoshree to invite Thackeray for that meeting. I am sure Thackeray and we all will attend the meeting of opposition at the national level, and we will participate in the common programme," he said.

PUNE: Nationalist Congress Party chief Sharad Pawar on Tuesday dismissed speculation about his nephew and senior party leader Ajit Pawar's next political move and said no meeting of NCP MLAs has been called by anyone. He also said Ajit Pawar was busy with the party's work and that there was no need for the media to drag the issue. Earlier on Monday, Ajit Pawar also dismissed as false the reports that he has called a meeting of MLAs on Tuesday, amid intense speculation in Maharashtra's political circles about his growing proximity with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Rumours about Ajit Pawar's next political move started swirling last week when he suddenly cancelled his scheduled meetings and also made comments which were seen as being soft on the BJP and Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's camp. The BJP is part of the Shinde government. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Sunday added grist to the rumour mill claiming Sharad Pawar recently told Uddhav Thackeray that his party will never join hands with the BJP even if anyone takes an individual decision to do so. READ HERE | Maharashtra: Ajit Pawar gets signatures of 40 ready to bolt Ajit Pawar dismisses reports linking him to BJP, denies calling meeting of NCP MLAs Speaking to the reporters in Purandar area of Maharashtra's Pune district on Tuesday, Sharad Pawar said whatever discussions are going on in the minds of the media are not there in "our minds". "There is no importance of all these discussions. The reports have no meaning. Somebody is trying to create news. I can say about NCP that all our colleagues are of one thinking of how to make the party stronger, and there is no other thought in anybody's mind," the NCP chief said. Sharad Pawar, whose party is a constituent of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) which also comprises the Shiv Sena (UBT) and Congress, dismissed reports of a meeting of NCP MLAs being called in Mumbai and said no one has called such a meeting. "I read in the newspapers about the meeting of (NCP) MLAs. But, it is 100 per cent true that there is no such meeting (taking place), and no one has called such a meeting," he said. "The party's state president (Jayant Patil) is busy with market committee elections in his region, and another party leader, Ajit Pawar, is also busy with the work of the party and providing guidance to everyone," he added. The NCP chief said after his clarification, the media has no right to drag the issue. He was responding to queries from mediapersons on reports speculating about Ajit Pawar and the party MLAs going with him. Sharad Pawar also said after his programmes in Pune, he will head to Mumbai. Asked about Congress leader KC Venugopal's meeting with Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray at the latter's residence 'Matoshree' in Mumbai, Sharad Pawar said he, Rahul Gandhi, AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge and Venugopal had met in Delhi. "The agenda was to convene a meeting of opposition leaders at a national level and chalk out a programme, and Venugopal had come to Matoshree to invite Thackeray for that meeting. I am sure Thackeray and we all will attend the meeting of opposition at the national level, and we will participate in the common programme," he said.
By PTI

SURAT: Amid the Nandini versus Amul battle in Karnataka, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has stressed that there is no need to boycott Amul in the southern state.

The row involving the two unions -- Nandini and Amul -- started recently after the latter announced that it would supply its milk varieties in Bengaluru.

"There is no need to boycott Amul in my view. You keep doing what you want to do. If Amul is snatching something, it is a matter of protest," Patel said on Monday.

The opposition Congress and Janata Dal (Secular) in Karnataka have alleged that the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) wants to "kill" Nandini by allowing Amul in the southern state.

They have also expressed their apprehension that a scarcity of Nandini products would be created to make way for Amul to take over.

The Basavaraj Bommai-led BJP government in Karnataka has, however, denied the charge, saying there is no threat to Nandini from Amul.

Interacting with reporters here, Patel also said Surat has good town-planning schemes.

Noting that there has been an increase in the demand for water and electricity in the city, he said they are moving towards renewable energy to meet the power demands.

"Water is equally important for people and business activities. We have to see what more we can do," the chief minister said. He also said Gujarat is moving towards natural farming.

"During Covid and post-Covid, we have seen how people aged between 40 and 50 years are going for full-body checkups since diseases like cancer and diabetes are increasing. Earlier, people would think about full-body checkups after turning 50. Similarly, chemicals are destroying the health of the land," Patel said.

Stressing that natural farming is the way ahead, he said even though opposition parties might be raising questions about farming, no farmer has any complaint.

"The farmers are not supporting them. They (opposition parties) can say anything," the chief minister said.

SURAT: Amid the Nandini versus Amul battle in Karnataka, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has stressed that there is no need to boycott Amul in the southern state. The row involving the two unions -- Nandini and Amul -- started recently after the latter announced that it would supply its milk varieties in Bengaluru. "There is no need to boycott Amul in my view. You keep doing what you want to do. If Amul is snatching something, it is a matter of protest," Patel said on Monday.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The opposition Congress and Janata Dal (Secular) in Karnataka have alleged that the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) wants to "kill" Nandini by allowing Amul in the southern state. They have also expressed their apprehension that a scarcity of Nandini products would be created to make way for Amul to take over. The Basavaraj Bommai-led BJP government in Karnataka has, however, denied the charge, saying there is no threat to Nandini from Amul. Interacting with reporters here, Patel also said Surat has good town-planning schemes. Noting that there has been an increase in the demand for water and electricity in the city, he said they are moving towards renewable energy to meet the power demands. "Water is equally important for people and business activities. We have to see what more we can do," the chief minister said. He also said Gujarat is moving towards natural farming. "During Covid and post-Covid, we have seen how people aged between 40 and 50 years are going for full-body checkups since diseases like cancer and diabetes are increasing. Earlier, people would think about full-body checkups after turning 50. Similarly, chemicals are destroying the health of the land," Patel said. Stressing that natural farming is the way ahead, he said even though opposition parties might be raising questions about farming, no farmer has any complaint. "The farmers are not supporting them. They (opposition parties) can say anything," the chief minister said.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Tuesday questioned the Gujarat government over the remission granted to the 11 convicts last year in the Bilkis Bano gangrape case and the murder of her family members during the 2002 Godhra riots.

The court held that the gravity of the offence should have been considered and went on to question whether there was any application of mind while releasing the rapists.

Asking reasons for the premature release of the convicts, a bench of Justices KM Joseph and BV Nagarathna also questioned the paroles granted to the rapists during their incarceration period.

"It (remission) is a kind of grace which should be proportional to the crime. Look at the records, one of them was granted parole for 1,000 days which is three years, the other for 1,200 days and the third for 1,500 days. What policy have you (the Gujarat government) been following? It is not a simple case of section 302 (murder) but a case of murders compounded by gang rape. Like you cannot compare apples with oranges, similarly massacre cannot be compared with a single murder."

Hearing a plea challenging the release of the convicts, the court said although there was consultation with the Centre for grant of remission but the state is required to apply its mind, looking at the gravity of the offence.

The Centre and the Gujarat government also told the court they may file a plea seeking a review of its March 27 order asking them to be ready with original files on the grant of remission.

READ MORE

BJP netas share stage with Bilkis Bano rape convict in Gujarat

Will fight again, against what is wrong: Bilkis Bano on remission given to her rapists

Senior advocate AM Singhvi, appearing for one of the PIL petitioners, said the records show that when the convicts were released on bail, they had given threats to witnesses and were involved in other crimes.

Advocate Shobha Gupta, appearing for Bano, said no new records have been filed in the petition and it is just the challenge to the remission granted to the convicts.

The bench told Additional Solicitor General SV Raju, appearing for the Centre and the Gujarat government, "Here a pregnant woman, who was gang-raped and several members of her family were killed. Crimes are generally committed against society and the community. Unequals cannot be treated equally. The real question is whether the government applied its mind and what material formed the basis of its decision to grant remission in the facts and circumstances of the case," the bench said, adding, "Today it is this lady (Bilkis) but tomorrow it can be anyone. It may be you or me. If you do not show your reasons for grant of remission, then we will draw our own conclusions."

The bench told Raju that non-production of original files will be construed as contempt and asked him why the state government was shying away from producing the files.

Justice Joseph said the court is actually concerned with the exercise of power by the state in the present case and referred to a 2006 two-judge verdict of the apex court in the case of Epuru Sudhakar versus Government of Andhra Pradesh, in which the remission order was set aside as the ground was that the convict was "a good Congress worker".

"We are aware that the power of the state government to grant remission is not amenable for judicial review unless manifestly arbitrary. It is a sovereign power which does exist under various jurisdictions. It is a kind of grace which should be proportional to crime. There has to be some objective standards. For the exercise of power under Article 161 of the Constitution, certain guidelines as laid down by this court needs to be followed," he said.

The bench further said that when a crime is committed, the offence is against a community or the society and "when you release a person in a case like this, you have to look at the public at large. You have to see what message you are sending to the public".

Senior advocate Siddharth Luthra, appearing for one of the convicts, said that when the victim has filed the petition challenging the remission, then the court ought not to hear PILs filed by third parties.

"This court has said it is a grave offence and I appreciate that but equally we have to see that my client has served 15 years incarceration for the offence," he added.

Advocate Rishi Mahotra, also appearing for one of the convicts, sought a copy of the review petition filed by Bano, which was dismissed by the top court last year, and said that according to him the grounds taken in the review petitions are same as in the writ petition filed by her.

"If the grounds in the review petition and the writ petitions filed by Bano are the same then the writ petition will not survive."

The bench said the review was against the order passed by the top court in May on which state's remission policy will apply in the case of convicts and that it had not challenged the remission order.

Counsels of other convicts also sought time to file their responses.

ALSO READ | We're scared, says Bilkis Bano's husband after snap of rape convict with BJP leaders goes viral

Raju said he has to seek instructions on further course of action by April 24 but as per his current instructions, the Centre and the state may file a plea for review of the March 27 order.

The bench said all the respondents shall file their replies by May 1 and posted the matter for further hearing on May 2.

At the outset, when counsels for convicts said they need time to file their responses, Justice Nagarathna said the court is aware of this strategy that in one hearing, a convict will file his reply and in another hearing another accused will file their reply and eventually delay the proceedings.

On March 27, terming Bilkis Bano's gang rape and the murder of her family members during the 2002 Godhra riots as a "horrendous" act, the top court had asked the Gujarat government whether uniform standards, as followed in other cases of murder, were applied while granting remission to the 11 convicts in the case.

It had sought a response from the Centre, Gujarat government and others on the plea filed by Bano, who has challenged the remission of the sentences.

All 11 convicts were granted remission by the Gujarat government and released on August 15 last year.

The top court is seized of PILs filed by CPI(M) leader Subhashini Ali, Revati Laul, an independent journalist, Roop Rekha Verma, who is a former vice chancellor of the Lucknow University, and TMC MP Mahua Moitra against the release of the convicts.

Bano was 21 years old and five months pregnant when she was gang-raped while fleeing from the riots that broke out after the Godhra train burning incident.

Her three-year-old daughter was among the seven family members killed.

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Tuesday questioned the Gujarat government over the remission granted to the 11 convicts last year in the Bilkis Bano gangrape case and the murder of her family members during the 2002 Godhra riots. The court held that the gravity of the offence should have been considered and went on to question whether there was any application of mind while releasing the rapists. Asking reasons for the premature release of the convicts, a bench of Justices KM Joseph and BV Nagarathna also questioned the paroles granted to the rapists during their incarceration period.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); "It (remission) is a kind of grace which should be proportional to the crime. Look at the records, one of them was granted parole for 1,000 days which is three years, the other for 1,200 days and the third for 1,500 days. What policy have you (the Gujarat government) been following? It is not a simple case of section 302 (murder) but a case of murders compounded by gang rape. Like you cannot compare apples with oranges, similarly massacre cannot be compared with a single murder." Hearing a plea challenging the release of the convicts, the court said although there was consultation with the Centre for grant of remission but the state is required to apply its mind, looking at the gravity of the offence. The Centre and the Gujarat government also told the court they may file a plea seeking a review of its March 27 order asking them to be ready with original files on the grant of remission. READ MORE BJP netas share stage with Bilkis Bano rape convict in Gujarat Will fight again, against what is wrong: Bilkis Bano on remission given to her rapists Senior advocate AM Singhvi, appearing for one of the PIL petitioners, said the records show that when the convicts were released on bail, they had given threats to witnesses and were involved in other crimes. Advocate Shobha Gupta, appearing for Bano, said no new records have been filed in the petition and it is just the challenge to the remission granted to the convicts. The bench told Additional Solicitor General SV Raju, appearing for the Centre and the Gujarat government, "Here a pregnant woman, who was gang-raped and several members of her family were killed. Crimes are generally committed against society and the community. Unequals cannot be treated equally. The real question is whether the government applied its mind and what material formed the basis of its decision to grant remission in the facts and circumstances of the case," the bench said, adding, "Today it is this lady (Bilkis) but tomorrow it can be anyone. It may be you or me. If you do not show your reasons for grant of remission, then we will draw our own conclusions." The bench told Raju that non-production of original files will be construed as contempt and asked him why the state government was shying away from producing the files. Justice Joseph said the court is actually concerned with the exercise of power by the state in the present case and referred to a 2006 two-judge verdict of the apex court in the case of Epuru Sudhakar versus Government of Andhra Pradesh, in which the remission order was set aside as the ground was that the convict was "a good Congress worker". "We are aware that the power of the state government to grant remission is not amenable for judicial review unless manifestly arbitrary. It is a sovereign power which does exist under various jurisdictions. It is a kind of grace which should be proportional to crime. There has to be some objective standards. For the exercise of power under Article 161 of the Constitution, certain guidelines as laid down by this court needs to be followed," he said. The bench further said that when a crime is committed, the offence is against a community or the society and "when you release a person in a case like this, you have to look at the public at large. You have to see what message you are sending to the public". Senior advocate Siddharth Luthra, appearing for one of the convicts, said that when the victim has filed the petition challenging the remission, then the court ought not to hear PILs filed by third parties. "This court has said it is a grave offence and I appreciate that but equally we have to see that my client has served 15 years incarceration for the offence," he added. Advocate Rishi Mahotra, also appearing for one of the convicts, sought a copy of the review petition filed by Bano, which was dismissed by the top court last year, and said that according to him the grounds taken in the review petitions are same as in the writ petition filed by her. "If the grounds in the review petition and the writ petitions filed by Bano are the same then the writ petition will not survive." The bench said the review was against the order passed by the top court in May on which state's remission policy will apply in the case of convicts and that it had not challenged the remission order. Counsels of other convicts also sought time to file their responses. ALSO READ | We're scared, says Bilkis Bano's husband after snap of rape convict with BJP leaders goes viral Raju said he has to seek instructions on further course of action by April 24 but as per his current instructions, the Centre and the state may file a plea for review of the March 27 order. The bench said all the respondents shall file their replies by May 1 and posted the matter for further hearing on May 2. At the outset, when counsels for convicts said they need time to file their responses, Justice Nagarathna said the court is aware of this strategy that in one hearing, a convict will file his reply and in another hearing another accused will file their reply and eventually delay the proceedings. On March 27, terming Bilkis Bano's gang rape and the murder of her family members during the 2002 Godhra riots as a "horrendous" act, the top court had asked the Gujarat government whether uniform standards, as followed in other cases of murder, were applied while granting remission to the 11 convicts in the case. It had sought a response from the Centre, Gujarat government and others on the plea filed by Bano, who has challenged the remission of the sentences. All 11 convicts were granted remission by the Gujarat government and released on August 15 last year. The top court is seized of PILs filed by CPI(M) leader Subhashini Ali, Revati Laul, an independent journalist, Roop Rekha Verma, who is a former vice chancellor of the Lucknow University, and TMC MP Mahua Moitra against the release of the convicts. Bano was 21 years old and five months pregnant when she was gang-raped while fleeing from the riots that broke out after the Godhra train burning incident. Her three-year-old daughter was among the seven family members killed.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court collegium headed by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud has recommended the names of six additional judges of the Punjab and Haryana High Court for appointment as permanent judges.

The additional judges are Justices Vikas Bahl, Vikas Suri, Sandeep Moudgil, Vinod Sharma (Bhardwaj), Pankaj Jain and Jasjit Singh Bedi.

The collegium, which also includes Justices Sanjay Kishan Kaul and K M Joseph, said that since the current two-year term of one of the additional judges is due to expire on May 24, the recommendation may be processed expeditiously by the Centre.

The collegium took the decisions in its meeting on April 17.

On December 19 last year, the collegium of the High Court of Punjab and Haryana unanimously recommended that the additional judges be appointed as permanent judges of that high court.

The collegium said that the recommendation, which has the concurrence of the chief ministers and the governors of the states of Punjab and Haryana, has been received from the Department of Justice on April 13, 2023.

"In terms of the Memorandum of Procedure, Judges of the Supreme Court who are conversant with the functioning of the High Court of Punjab and Haryana were consulted with a view to ascertain the suitability of the above judges for being appointed as permanent judges.

"The committee constituted in terms of the resolution dated October 26, 2017 of the Supreme Court collegium to evaluate the judgments of the above-named additional judges, has submitted its report. The Judgment Evaluation Committee consisting of two judges of the Supreme Court has noted the judgments of the candidates as 'very good' (serial nos.i, v and vi), 'good' (serial nos.ii & iii) and 'outstanding' (serial no.iv)," it said.

With a view to assess the merit and suitability of the above additional judges for appointment as permanent judges, the collegium scrutinised the material placed on record including the observations made by the Department of Justice and the complaints placed before it.

"On an overall consideration of the above proposal, the collegium is of the view that Shri Justices (i) Vikas Bahl, (ii) Vikas Suri, (iii) Sandeep Moudgil, (iv) Vinod Sharma (Bhardwaj), (v) Pankaj Jain, and (vi) Jasjit Singh Bedi, Additional Judges, are fit and suitable for being appointed as Permanent Judges," it said.

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court collegium headed by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud has recommended the names of six additional judges of the Punjab and Haryana High Court for appointment as permanent judges. The additional judges are Justices Vikas Bahl, Vikas Suri, Sandeep Moudgil, Vinod Sharma (Bhardwaj), Pankaj Jain and Jasjit Singh Bedi. The collegium, which also includes Justices Sanjay Kishan Kaul and K M Joseph, said that since the current two-year term of one of the additional judges is due to expire on May 24, the recommendation may be processed expeditiously by the Centre.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The collegium took the decisions in its meeting on April 17. On December 19 last year, the collegium of the High Court of Punjab and Haryana unanimously recommended that the additional judges be appointed as permanent judges of that high court. The collegium said that the recommendation, which has the concurrence of the chief ministers and the governors of the states of Punjab and Haryana, has been received from the Department of Justice on April 13, 2023. "In terms of the Memorandum of Procedure, Judges of the Supreme Court who are conversant with the functioning of the High Court of Punjab and Haryana were consulted with a view to ascertain the suitability of the above judges for being appointed as permanent judges. "The committee constituted in terms of the resolution dated October 26, 2017 of the Supreme Court collegium to evaluate the judgments of the above-named additional judges, has submitted its report. The Judgment Evaluation Committee consisting of two judges of the Supreme Court has noted the judgments of the candidates as 'very good' (serial nos.i, v and vi), 'good' (serial nos.ii & iii) and 'outstanding' (serial no.iv)," it said. With a view to assess the merit and suitability of the above additional judges for appointment as permanent judges, the collegium scrutinised the material placed on record including the observations made by the Department of Justice and the complaints placed before it. "On an overall consideration of the above proposal, the collegium is of the view that Shri Justices (i) Vikas Bahl, (ii) Vikas Suri, (iii) Sandeep Moudgil, (iv) Vinod Sharma (Bhardwaj), (v) Pankaj Jain, and (vi) Jasjit Singh Bedi, Additional Judges, are fit and suitable for being appointed as Permanent Judges," it said.
The latest landing of the 2Africa cable has been announced: its at Port Said, at the northern end of the Suez Canal, on Egypts Mediterranean coast.

The 2Africa cable had already landed at Telecom Egypts cable landing station in Ras Ghareb on the eastern coast of Egypt, in November 2022.

As the Data Centre Dynamics website points out, the Suez Canal is a major thoroughfare for subsea cables crossing between the Mediterranean and the Indian Ocean. Despite this, this is only the second cable landing at Port Said following Telecom Egypts Red2Med cable that launched last year.

However, Data Centre Dynamics adds, the Africa-1, FEA, Medusa, India-Europe-Xpress (IEX), and SeaMeWe6 cables are all due to land at Port Said over the next two years.

Announced in 2020 by a consortium that includes Meta, Telecom Egypt, China Mobile International, MTN GlobalConnect, Orange, STC, Vodafone, and WIOCC, the 2Africa cable, which will circle the African continent is, at 45,000km, among the world's largest subsea cable projects. It will connect 33 countries with 46 landing points across Africa, Europe, and Asia when it is complete.

Alcatel Submarine Networks (ASN) is responsible for manufacturing and deploying the 16-fibre pair, 180Tbps cable, which is due for completion in 2024. 2Africa has already landed at a number of points in Europe and Africa as well as Saudi Arabia through the Pearls extension, which will also take the cable to Mumbai in India.
By PTI

MUMBAI: Nine people were still undergoing treatment in different hospitals after suffering from sunstroke at a mega award function in Navi Mumbai, a civic official said on Tuesday.

Thirteen people had died after attending the event held in Kharghar area of Maharashtra's Raigad district neighbouring Mumbai on Sunday.

The function was held in an open ground and was attended by several lakh people, most of them followers of social worker Appasaheb Dharmadhikari who was conferred with the Maharashtra Bhushan Award by Union Home Minister Amit Shah at the event.

The nearest weather station to the spot had recorded a maximum temperature of 38 degrees Celsius.

"The death toll stands at 13 as no fresh fatality has been reported. We discharged eight persons yesterday after treatment. Besides, five persons are recuperating at the MGM Hospital (Kamothe), three in a Vashi civic hospital and another patient at Medicover Hospital in Kharghar," Panvel Municipal Corporation's deputy commissioner Vitthal Dake said.

Chief Minister Eknath Shinde had termed the deaths as "very unfortunate" and said the kin of the deceased will be given a compensation of Rs 5 lakh.

Leader of Opposition in the Assembly Ajit Pawar had sought an inquiry into how the award event was organised during noon time when the temperature was very high.

ALSO READ | 'Maharashtra Bhushan' award event: 11 attendees die of sunstroke, Ajit Pawar seeks probe

Maharashtra Congress chief Nana Patole had said a case of culpable homicide must be registered against the Shinde government for the sunstroke deaths.

Nationalist Congress Party's Lok Sabha member Supriya Sule had demanded the formation of a panel to probe the incident.

Many followers of Shree Parivar (Dharmadhikari's organisation) had reached the venue on Friday and stayed there till the function concluded at around 1.30 pm on Sunday.

At the sprawling venue, some people complained of dizziness and other health complications.

Some also fainted at the ground.

They were initially treated at make shift medical facilities and later rushed to hospitals.

Dharmadhikari has a massive following in the state due to his tree plantation drives, blood donation and medical camps as well as de-addiction work in tribal areas.

MUMBAI: Nine people were still undergoing treatment in different hospitals after suffering from sunstroke at a mega award function in Navi Mumbai, a civic official said on Tuesday. Thirteen people had died after attending the event held in Kharghar area of Maharashtra's Raigad district neighbouring Mumbai on Sunday. The function was held in an open ground and was attended by several lakh people, most of them followers of social worker Appasaheb Dharmadhikari who was conferred with the Maharashtra Bhushan Award by Union Home Minister Amit Shah at the event.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The nearest weather station to the spot had recorded a maximum temperature of 38 degrees Celsius. "The death toll stands at 13 as no fresh fatality has been reported. We discharged eight persons yesterday after treatment. Besides, five persons are recuperating at the MGM Hospital (Kamothe), three in a Vashi civic hospital and another patient at Medicover Hospital in Kharghar," Panvel Municipal Corporation's deputy commissioner Vitthal Dake said. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde had termed the deaths as "very unfortunate" and said the kin of the deceased will be given a compensation of Rs 5 lakh. Leader of Opposition in the Assembly Ajit Pawar had sought an inquiry into how the award event was organised during noon time when the temperature was very high. ALSO READ | 'Maharashtra Bhushan' award event: 11 attendees die of sunstroke, Ajit Pawar seeks probe Maharashtra Congress chief Nana Patole had said a case of culpable homicide must be registered against the Shinde government for the sunstroke deaths. Nationalist Congress Party's Lok Sabha member Supriya Sule had demanded the formation of a panel to probe the incident. Many followers of Shree Parivar (Dharmadhikari's organisation) had reached the venue on Friday and stayed there till the function concluded at around 1.30 pm on Sunday. At the sprawling venue, some people complained of dizziness and other health complications. Some also fainted at the ground. They were initially treated at make shift medical facilities and later rushed to hospitals. Dharmadhikari has a massive following in the state due to his tree plantation drives, blood donation and medical camps as well as de-addiction work in tribal areas.
By PTI

UNNAO: Two infants were in a critical condition Tuesday after a group of men set fire to the home of a minor Dalit girl, whom two of them had allegedly raped last year.

The injured babies include the rape victim's six-month-old child -- born after the 11-year-old Dalit girl was impregnated in the sexual assault -- and her two-month-old sister, police said.

The two rape accused, recently released on bail, allegedly barged into the family's thatched shed Monday evening with five others, after the victim refused to withdraw the case.

They beat up her mother and then set the shed on fire.

According to chief medical superintendent Sushil Srivastava, the rape victim's infant son suffered 35 per cent burns and her sister 45 per cent burns in the incident. "As their condition worsened, both the kids were sent to Kanpur for better treatment," he said.

Santosh Singh, Circle Officer, Purva said the rape victim's father was attacked with an axe by her grandfather and uncle, who had sided with the accused, and four other people on April 13 according to a complaint filed by her mother.

The father is admitted at the district hospital with serious injuries, he said.

Police said the Dalit girl was gang-raped on February 13, 2022.

She gave birth to a son in September that year.

The victim's mother also alleged that their house was set on fire to eliminate her daughter's infant son.

UNNAO: Two infants were in a critical condition Tuesday after a group of men set fire to the home of a minor Dalit girl, whom two of them had allegedly raped last year. The injured babies include the rape victim's six-month-old child -- born after the 11-year-old Dalit girl was impregnated in the sexual assault -- and her two-month-old sister, police said. The two rape accused, recently released on bail, allegedly barged into the family's thatched shed Monday evening with five others, after the victim refused to withdraw the case.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); They beat up her mother and then set the shed on fire. According to chief medical superintendent Sushil Srivastava, the rape victim's infant son suffered 35 per cent burns and her sister 45 per cent burns in the incident. "As their condition worsened, both the kids were sent to Kanpur for better treatment," he said. Santosh Singh, Circle Officer, Purva said the rape victim's father was attacked with an axe by her grandfather and uncle, who had sided with the accused, and four other people on April 13 according to a complaint filed by her mother. The father is admitted at the district hospital with serious injuries, he said. Police said the Dalit girl was gang-raped on February 13, 2022. She gave birth to a son in September that year. The victim's mother also alleged that their house was set on fire to eliminate her daughter's infant son.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Tuesday made it clear that it will not go into personal laws governing marriages while deciding the pleas seeking legal validation for same-sex marriages and said the very notion of a man and a woman, as referred to in the Special Marriage Act, is not "an absolute based on genitals."

The day's proceedings on the sensitive issue started with Centre's vehement submission that its "preliminary objection" be heard and decided first that the court cannot go into the question which essentially is on Parliament's turf.

Irked over the submission, a five-judge constitution bench headed by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud said "we are in-charge" and the nature and tenability of the preliminary objection will depend on the canvas the petitioners open up.

Terming the issue involved in the pleas as "complex", the bench asked the lawyers appearing in the matter to advance arguments on the Special Marriage Act, a religion neutral statue.

The Special Marriage Act, 1954 is a law that provides a legal framework for the marriage of people belonging to different religions or castes. It governs a civil marriage where the state sanctions the marriage rather than the religion.

In a day-long hearing, a five-judge constitution bench headed by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud took note of submissions in favour and against the petitions, and one of them was that even the Special Marriage Act has terms like 'a man and a woman' and hence using term 'person' instead may unsettle existing statutes.

'Not restricted to genitals'

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, referred to the ramifications for various personal laws if the top court were to validate same-sex marriages and gave illustrations from the Special Marriage Act saying even it has terms like 'man and a woman'.

Senior advocate AM Singhvi, appearing for one of the petitioners, said same-sex marriage was a narrow term and, if the court were to grant marriage equality to gay couples, it should be for consenting adults across "bodily gender and sex spectrum."

"There is a whole range of combinations of persons with special biological features. It is not only men and women. One category is 'sex' and the second category is 'gender'. So a male body can be imbued by female psychological instincts and vice versa and there is LGBTQIA++ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, intersex, pansexual, two-spirit, asexual, and ally). This '++' has a whole spectrum of hues and colours," he said.

Mehta countered Singhvi saying the "biological gender was the gender of a person."

The bench said it is not the question of "genitals" and the very notion of the special law having "man and woman" is not restricted to the genitals. "It is not the question of what your genitals are. It is far more complex, that's the point. So, even when the Special Marriage Act says man and woman, the very notion of a man and a woman is not an absolute based on genitals," said the bench, which also comprised justices Justices S K Kaul, S R Bhat, Hima Kohli and P S Narasimha.

ALSO READ | Legal validation of same-sex marriage reflect 'urban elitist' views: Centre

'Change in society begins from somewhere'

On the issue of using the word 'person' in the Special Marriage Act in place of 'a man and a woman', the law officer said the legislative intent throughout has been a relation between "a biological male and a biological female."

The bench intervened and said, "The very notion of a biological man is absolute...."

The law officer said "Biological man means biological man, there is no notion."

There is a very important value judgement you (law officer) are making that the very notion of the biological man is absolute or that the notion of the biological woman is also absolute, which is incorrect, the bench said.

The law officer said, "Biological man means genitals you have. I did not want to use that expression."

He said, irrespective of other attributes than the genitals, separate marriageable age limits were prescribed for men and women.

Mehta said there were several laws which the court will be making redundant inadvertently if it chose to give legal backing to same-sex marriages.

"I may have the genitals of a man but I am otherwise a female, as possibly suggested, then how would I be treated under the Code of Criminal Procedure. As a woman, can I be called for the section 160 CrPC statement after a particular hour and may say that this is only a notion. I may have the biological genitals of a man, now I am a woman....there are several issues which have to be gone into. Better they are gone into by Parliament," the law officer said.

"There is always change in the society and it begins from somewhere," the bench told Mehta.

'We can keep personal laws out of equation'

On being pointed out the difficulties and ramifications for the Hindu Marriage Act and personal laws of various religious groups if the top court were to hold same-sex marriages valid, the bench said, "Then we can keep the personal laws out of the equation and all of you (lawyers) can address us on the Special Marriage Act (a religion neutral marriage law)."

Mehta referred to the laws on transgender persons and said there are several rights such as the right to choose partners, privacy right, right to choose sexual orientation, and any discrimination is criminally prosecutable.

"However, the conferment of socio-legal status of marriage cannot be done through judicial decisions. It cannot even be done by the legislature. The acceptance has to come from within the society," the law officer said.

During the arguments, Mehta said the problem will arise when a person, who is a Hindu, wants to avail the right to marry within the same sex while remaining a Hindu. "Hindus and Muslims and other communities will be affected and that is why the states should be heard," he said.

"We are not going into the personal laws and now you want us to get into it. Why? How can you ask us to decide it? We cannot be compelled to hear everything," the bench said.

Then this will amount to "short circuiting" the issue and the Centre's stand is not to hear it all, Mehta said, to which the CJI responded: "We are taking a middle course. We don't have to decide everything to decide something."

The bench said though 10 petitioners wanted it to be dealt with on a broader aspect "we are restricting it and we are not going into personal laws etc."

The law officer contended the bench was saying it will not go into the personal laws but the earlier judgments opened this window and so again this (the current proceedings) will open another window later.

"But we cannot bind our future generations long after we are gone and turned to dust," the bench observed.

READ MORE | Indian gay couple begin legal battle for same-sex marriage

'Who will be father, mother?'

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for Jamiat-Ulama-i-Hind, said the court should either hear the issue in entirety or not hear it at all as a piecemeal approach will cause more harm than good to the group seeking legal validation for same-sex marriages.

"I am a firm believer of the autonomy of an individual...we need to celebrate the union of two people....now, if marriage is allowed and it breaks, then the question will be who will take care of the child. Who will be the father...who will be the mother...," he said.

Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for one of the petitioners, said if rights have to be identical "then I must get the recognition of my union the same way as the recognition of union of two other heterosexuals."

"And since it is based on an implementation of my fundamental rights, I can come to the court and the court need not wait for the legislature. There may not be a mandamus to the legislature. Legislature can or cannot do," he said, adding "If this court has said something, the State has to respect it and once State respects it, stigma will go."

Rohagti underlined that law cannot remain static and changes with time.

"For time being can we not step into personal laws at all and restrict to Special Marriage Act by giving it a gender-neutral interpretation and evolving a civil union concept. From the Navtej Johar (decriminalisation of consensual gay sex) judgement till now there has been an acceptance of same sex relationships in universities...and in this evolving consensus, the court is playing a dialogical role and we know about our limitations," the bench said during the hearing which will continue on Wednesday.

The hearing and the outcome will have significant ramifications for the country where common people and political parties hold divergent views on the subject.

The apex court had on November 25 last year sought the Centre's response to separate pleas moved by two gay couples seeking enforcement of their right to marry and a direction to the authorities concerned to register their marriages under the Special Marriage Act.

READ MORE:

LGBTQ+ community denounces Centre's opposition to same-sex marriage

Activist Akkai seeks apology from BJP member for same-sex marriage remark

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Tuesday made it clear that it will not go into personal laws governing marriages while deciding the pleas seeking legal validation for same-sex marriages and said the very notion of a man and a woman, as referred to in the Special Marriage Act, is not "an absolute based on genitals." The day's proceedings on the sensitive issue started with Centre's vehement submission that its "preliminary objection" be heard and decided first that the court cannot go into the question which essentially is on Parliament's turf. Irked over the submission, a five-judge constitution bench headed by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud said "we are in-charge" and the nature and tenability of the preliminary objection will depend on the canvas the petitioners open up.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Terming the issue involved in the pleas as "complex", the bench asked the lawyers appearing in the matter to advance arguments on the Special Marriage Act, a religion neutral statue. The Special Marriage Act, 1954 is a law that provides a legal framework for the marriage of people belonging to different religions or castes. It governs a civil marriage where the state sanctions the marriage rather than the religion. In a day-long hearing, a five-judge constitution bench headed by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud took note of submissions in favour and against the petitions, and one of them was that even the Special Marriage Act has terms like 'a man and a woman' and hence using term 'person' instead may unsettle existing statutes. 'Not restricted to genitals' Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, referred to the ramifications for various personal laws if the top court were to validate same-sex marriages and gave illustrations from the Special Marriage Act saying even it has terms like 'man and a woman'. Senior advocate AM Singhvi, appearing for one of the petitioners, said same-sex marriage was a narrow term and, if the court were to grant marriage equality to gay couples, it should be for consenting adults across "bodily gender and sex spectrum." "There is a whole range of combinations of persons with special biological features. It is not only men and women. One category is 'sex' and the second category is 'gender'. So a male body can be imbued by female psychological instincts and vice versa and there is LGBTQIA++ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, intersex, pansexual, two-spirit, asexual, and ally). This '++' has a whole spectrum of hues and colours," he said. Mehta countered Singhvi saying the "biological gender was the gender of a person." The bench said it is not the question of "genitals" and the very notion of the special law having "man and woman" is not restricted to the genitals. "It is not the question of what your genitals are. It is far more complex, that's the point. So, even when the Special Marriage Act says man and woman, the very notion of a man and a woman is not an absolute based on genitals," said the bench, which also comprised justices Justices S K Kaul, S R Bhat, Hima Kohli and P S Narasimha. ALSO READ | Legal validation of same-sex marriage reflect 'urban elitist' views: Centre 'Change in society begins from somewhere' On the issue of using the word 'person' in the Special Marriage Act in place of 'a man and a woman', the law officer said the legislative intent throughout has been a relation between "a biological male and a biological female." The bench intervened and said, "The very notion of a biological man is absolute...." The law officer said "Biological man means biological man, there is no notion." There is a very important value judgement you (law officer) are making that the very notion of the biological man is absolute or that the notion of the biological woman is also absolute, which is incorrect, the bench said. The law officer said, "Biological man means genitals you have. I did not want to use that expression." He said, irrespective of other attributes than the genitals, separate marriageable age limits were prescribed for men and women. Mehta said there were several laws which the court will be making redundant inadvertently if it chose to give legal backing to same-sex marriages. "I may have the genitals of a man but I am otherwise a female, as possibly suggested, then how would I be treated under the Code of Criminal Procedure. As a woman, can I be called for the section 160 CrPC statement after a particular hour and may say that this is only a notion. I may have the biological genitals of a man, now I am a woman....there are several issues which have to be gone into. Better they are gone into by Parliament," the law officer said. "There is always change in the society and it begins from somewhere," the bench told Mehta. 'We can keep personal laws out of equation' On being pointed out the difficulties and ramifications for the Hindu Marriage Act and personal laws of various religious groups if the top court were to hold same-sex marriages valid, the bench said, "Then we can keep the personal laws out of the equation and all of you (lawyers) can address us on the Special Marriage Act (a religion neutral marriage law)." Mehta referred to the laws on transgender persons and said there are several rights such as the right to choose partners, privacy right, right to choose sexual orientation, and any discrimination is criminally prosecutable. "However, the conferment of socio-legal status of marriage cannot be done through judicial decisions. It cannot even be done by the legislature. The acceptance has to come from within the society," the law officer said. During the arguments, Mehta said the problem will arise when a person, who is a Hindu, wants to avail the right to marry within the same sex while remaining a Hindu. "Hindus and Muslims and other communities will be affected and that is why the states should be heard," he said. "We are not going into the personal laws and now you want us to get into it. Why? How can you ask us to decide it? We cannot be compelled to hear everything," the bench said. Then this will amount to "short circuiting" the issue and the Centre's stand is not to hear it all, Mehta said, to which the CJI responded: "We are taking a middle course. We don't have to decide everything to decide something." The bench said though 10 petitioners wanted it to be dealt with on a broader aspect "we are restricting it and we are not going into personal laws etc." The law officer contended the bench was saying it will not go into the personal laws but the earlier judgments opened this window and so again this (the current proceedings) will open another window later. "But we cannot bind our future generations long after we are gone and turned to dust," the bench observed. READ MORE | Indian gay couple begin legal battle for same-sex marriage 'Who will be father, mother?' Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for Jamiat-Ulama-i-Hind, said the court should either hear the issue in entirety or not hear it at all as a piecemeal approach will cause more harm than good to the group seeking legal validation for same-sex marriages. "I am a firm believer of the autonomy of an individual...we need to celebrate the union of two people....now, if marriage is allowed and it breaks, then the question will be who will take care of the child. Who will be the father...who will be the mother...," he said. Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for one of the petitioners, said if rights have to be identical "then I must get the recognition of my union the same way as the recognition of union of two other heterosexuals." "And since it is based on an implementation of my fundamental rights, I can come to the court and the court need not wait for the legislature. There may not be a mandamus to the legislature. Legislature can or cannot do," he said, adding "If this court has said something, the State has to respect it and once State respects it, stigma will go." Rohagti underlined that law cannot remain static and changes with time. "For time being can we not step into personal laws at all and restrict to Special Marriage Act by giving it a gender-neutral interpretation and evolving a civil union concept. From the Navtej Johar (decriminalisation of consensual gay sex) judgement till now there has been an acceptance of same sex relationships in universities...and in this evolving consensus, the court is playing a dialogical role and we know about our limitations," the bench said during the hearing which will continue on Wednesday. The hearing and the outcome will have significant ramifications for the country where common people and political parties hold divergent views on the subject. The apex court had on November 25 last year sought the Centre's response to separate pleas moved by two gay couples seeking enforcement of their right to marry and a direction to the authorities concerned to register their marriages under the Special Marriage Act. READ MORE: LGBTQ+ community denounces Centre's opposition to same-sex marriage Activist Akkai seeks apology from BJP member for same-sex marriage remark
Jabin T Jacob By

During his visit to Arunachal Pradesh earlier this week, Indian Home Minister Amit Shah declared, Today, we can state with pride, gone are those days when people could encroach into our land. Now, they cannot even take a pins tip worth of our land because the ITBP and the Indian Army are now present here.

The primary audience the statement is intended for is the domestic one.

Shah intended to remind Indians that it was the Congress regime under Jawaharlal Nehru that both failed to stop Chinese encroachments on Indian territory and later lost the 1962 conflict. While these are facts well-known and not easily forgotten, there are, however, two other facts that the minister might wish his audience to forget.

The first is the fact that the BJP-led government, too, failed to anticipate the Chinese encroachments of 2020 in eastern Ladakh. The home ministers reference specifically to the ITBP and the Army should be interpreted as deflecting attention from this failure, including the lack of an accountability exercise post-Galwan. Ordinary Indians are not expected to challenge the sincerity and work of the countrys armed forcesand by extension, that of the government. What implications does this tendency of one-upmanship in Indian politics have for Indias China policy?

Beijing has certainly exploited the diffidence of the Indian government in fully acknowledging the extent of the Chinese transgressions in the summer of 2020.

On the one hand, the Chinese now frequently declare that the situation on the LAC has returned to normal. On the other hand, they are also playing hardball by dragging out the military-to-military talks in eastern Ladakh and fresh confrontations elsewhere along the LAC, such as at Yangtse in Arunachal Pradesh in December last year.

In between, they have also provoked by twice issuing a list of Chinese names for locations in Arunachal Pradeshthe latest instance came in Marchas a way of keeping their claims alive in the region. The larger Chinese objective here is to hold on to their gains since 2020, solidify existing claims, and make new ones.

Meanwhile, occasional moderation in Chinas statementsits foreign ministry spokespersons response to a question on Shahs visit was somewhat brief and mild by Chinese standardsmust be seen as purely tactical and as responding to domestic imperatives or other global events.

For instance, like ruling political parties anywhere else in the world, Chinas communists do not want disruptions or distractions in the middle of key events in their political calendar, such as, for example, the 20th Party Congress in October last year. In the present instance, it might be that Beijing wishes to take pressure off Russia by promoting a trilateral with India that would both confuse the West about New Delhis positions and reliability and boost Russian confidence on the world stage with the belief that it is backed by two of Asias most significant powers.

The second fact that Shahs Arunachal statement seeks to elide is that the Congress under former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh contributed significantly to the capacity against China by scaling up infrastructure development in the border regions and expanding Indias diplomatic outreach and military modernisation. That these processes should kick into a higher gear today under the BJP is a natural progression.

Shahs statement came during the launch of a Vibrant Villages project of the Central government in Kibithoo near the LAC in Anjaw district. This scheme involves the development of over 2,900 villages in 46 blocks of 19 districts along the border with China in Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh.

It is part of an attempt to reverse one of the effects of the 1962 conflictcommunities and hamlets located too close to the LAC were forced to withdraw further behind as the Indian state followed a defensive logic of stalling the development of physical and communications infrastructure in the region for fear of China making use of these in another conflict. As a result, even as the LAC became securitised, Indias Army, Assam Rifles, the ITBP and other security agencies also suffered from poor access and communication facilities. The Vibrant Villages scheme is a culmination of efforts in recent decades to undo this legacy.

It is important to highlight, however, that the Vibrant Villages project is itself a response to Chinas own xiaokang or well-off villages development programme along the LAC. Several hundred of these xiaokang villages are strung all along the LAC in various stages of construction. Even when fully constructed, they have the air of Potemkin villagesit is unclear that the villages have any Tibetans settled in them, and the dominant belief in the Indian security establishment is that these are dual-use villages meant to house PLA soldiers or populate the region with Han immigrants as part of the demographic change the Chinese wish to impose on Tibet. Either way, given the Chinese states record in Tibet, it is not the well-being of Tibetans that is its primary concern.

In the Indian context, it is important to note that its border communities have had problems with Central government projects over the decades and across multiple ruling dispensations. Development in the region is focused on national security considerations and often comes at the expense of local interests and environmental considerations.

To conclude, New Delhi must be careful that domestic politics, whether at the centre or the margins, does not undermine the countrys external interests or its constitutional values at home. The sense of competition with China among the elite in India is all for good. However, they must resist the temptation also to ape the Chinese political and economic development model. To do so would only further demean Indias status as a peer competitor to China.

Jabin T Jacob

Associate Professor, Department of International Relations and Governance Studies and Director, Centre for Himalayan Studies, Shiv Nadar University, Delhi-NCRT Jacob

(jabin.jacob@snu.edu.id)

During his visit to Arunachal Pradesh earlier this week, Indian Home Minister Amit Shah declared, Today, we can state with pride, gone are those days when people could encroach into our land. Now, they cannot even take a pins tip worth of our land because the ITBP and the Indian Army are now present here. The primary audience the statement is intended for is the domestic one. Shah intended to remind Indians that it was the Congress regime under Jawaharlal Nehru that both failed to stop Chinese encroachments on Indian territory and later lost the 1962 conflict. While these are facts well-known and not easily forgotten, there are, however, two other facts that the minister might wish his audience to forget.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The first is the fact that the BJP-led government, too, failed to anticipate the Chinese encroachments of 2020 in eastern Ladakh. The home ministers reference specifically to the ITBP and the Army should be interpreted as deflecting attention from this failure, including the lack of an accountability exercise post-Galwan. Ordinary Indians are not expected to challenge the sincerity and work of the countrys armed forcesand by extension, that of the government. What implications does this tendency of one-upmanship in Indian politics have for Indias China policy? Beijing has certainly exploited the diffidence of the Indian government in fully acknowledging the extent of the Chinese transgressions in the summer of 2020. On the one hand, the Chinese now frequently declare that the situation on the LAC has returned to normal. On the other hand, they are also playing hardball by dragging out the military-to-military talks in eastern Ladakh and fresh confrontations elsewhere along the LAC, such as at Yangtse in Arunachal Pradesh in December last year. In between, they have also provoked by twice issuing a list of Chinese names for locations in Arunachal Pradeshthe latest instance came in Marchas a way of keeping their claims alive in the region. The larger Chinese objective here is to hold on to their gains since 2020, solidify existing claims, and make new ones. Meanwhile, occasional moderation in Chinas statementsits foreign ministry spokespersons response to a question on Shahs visit was somewhat brief and mild by Chinese standardsmust be seen as purely tactical and as responding to domestic imperatives or other global events. For instance, like ruling political parties anywhere else in the world, Chinas communists do not want disruptions or distractions in the middle of key events in their political calendar, such as, for example, the 20th Party Congress in October last year. In the present instance, it might be that Beijing wishes to take pressure off Russia by promoting a trilateral with India that would both confuse the West about New Delhis positions and reliability and boost Russian confidence on the world stage with the belief that it is backed by two of Asias most significant powers. The second fact that Shahs Arunachal statement seeks to elide is that the Congress under former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh contributed significantly to the capacity against China by scaling up infrastructure development in the border regions and expanding Indias diplomatic outreach and military modernisation. That these processes should kick into a higher gear today under the BJP is a natural progression. Shahs statement came during the launch of a Vibrant Villages project of the Central government in Kibithoo near the LAC in Anjaw district. This scheme involves the development of over 2,900 villages in 46 blocks of 19 districts along the border with China in Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. It is part of an attempt to reverse one of the effects of the 1962 conflictcommunities and hamlets located too close to the LAC were forced to withdraw further behind as the Indian state followed a defensive logic of stalling the development of physical and communications infrastructure in the region for fear of China making use of these in another conflict. As a result, even as the LAC became securitised, Indias Army, Assam Rifles, the ITBP and other security agencies also suffered from poor access and communication facilities. The Vibrant Villages scheme is a culmination of efforts in recent decades to undo this legacy. It is important to highlight, however, that the Vibrant Villages project is itself a response to Chinas own xiaokang or well-off villages development programme along the LAC. Several hundred of these xiaokang villages are strung all along the LAC in various stages of construction. Even when fully constructed, they have the air of Potemkin villagesit is unclear that the villages have any Tibetans settled in them, and the dominant belief in the Indian security establishment is that these are dual-use villages meant to house PLA soldiers or populate the region with Han immigrants as part of the demographic change the Chinese wish to impose on Tibet. Either way, given the Chinese states record in Tibet, it is not the well-being of Tibetans that is its primary concern. In the Indian context, it is important to note that its border communities have had problems with Central government projects over the decades and across multiple ruling dispensations. Development in the region is focused on national security considerations and often comes at the expense of local interests and environmental considerations. To conclude, New Delhi must be careful that domestic politics, whether at the centre or the margins, does not undermine the countrys external interests or its constitutional values at home. The sense of competition with China among the elite in India is all for good. However, they must resist the temptation also to ape the Chinese political and economic development model. To do so would only further demean Indias status as a peer competitor to China. Jabin T Jacob Associate Professor, Department of International Relations and Governance Studies and Director, Centre for Himalayan Studies, Shiv Nadar University, Delhi-NCRT Jacob (jabin.jacob@snu.edu.id)
Three days after violence and arson broke out during a Hanuman Jayanti procession in the western Odisha city of Sambalpur, the state administration finally appears to be on top of the situation. Curfew remains in force; internet services across the district remain suspended and scores have been rounded up for their involvement. A senior police team led by the DGP is camping to double down on efforts to restore normalcy. A senior IAS officer has also been deputed. However, what happened in Sambalpur should not have occurred in the first place.

Happening just days after the Union Home Ministry flagged concerns, urging states to be vigilant and ready, the strife during the celebrations was unacceptable. It is baffling that the district administration even allowed a second procession two days after the first episode of violence, which eventually blew up in

their face and ended in more disturbances. In the past, the state had handled provocative elements with iron hands during similar occasions, but this time, the failure has underscored the polices ineptitude. Its intelligence came up short, while the response has been anything but satisfactory. The blame must squarely go to Odisha Polices top brass, which has been found wanting on more than one occasion in the recent past.

Its staid reaction in the aftermath of health minister Naba Kishore Das murder in broad daylight in January had left the government red-faced. Their first response to violence in Sambalpur barely inspired confidence. That it took the police top brass three days to show alacrity and rush to the trouble-torn city says all. Odisha must not go the Bihar or West Bengal way. Every such act that brings disharmony among communities must be nipped in the bud. In the recent session of the state Assembly, when the opposition called the state lawless, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik made an impassioned retort, saying it was an affront to the peace-loving people. It has remained one of the few states where inflammatory actions have never been harboured.

That image built by sheer administrative perseverance and the CMs aversion to such elements must not be tarnished. With the all-important 2024 elections on their way, more challenges will present themselves. It is about time the government took a fresh look at weak links in Odisha Police and initiated corrective actions.

Three days after violence and arson broke out during a Hanuman Jayanti procession in the western Odisha city of Sambalpur, the state administration finally appears to be on top of the situation. Curfew remains in force; internet services across the district remain suspended and scores have been rounded up for their involvement. A senior police team led by the DGP is camping to double down on efforts to restore normalcy. A senior IAS officer has also been deputed. However, what happened in Sambalpur should not have occurred in the first place. Happening just days after the Union Home Ministry flagged concerns, urging states to be vigilant and ready, the strife during the celebrations was unacceptable. It is baffling that the district administration even allowed a second procession two days after the first episode of violence, which eventually blew up in their face and ended in more disturbances. In the past, the state had handled provocative elements with iron hands during similar occasions, but this time, the failure has underscored the polices ineptitude. Its intelligence came up short, while the response has been anything but satisfactory. The blame must squarely go to Odisha Polices top brass, which has been found wanting on more than one occasion in the recent past. Its staid reaction in the aftermath of health minister Naba Kishore Das murder in broad daylight in January had left the government red-faced. Their first response to violence in Sambalpur barely inspired confidence. That it took the police top brass three days to show alacrity and rush to the trouble-torn city says all. Odisha must not go the Bihar or West Bengal way. Every such act that brings disharmony among communities must be nipped in the bud. In the recent session of the state Assembly, when the opposition called the state lawless, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik made an impassioned retort, saying it was an affront to the peace-loving people. It has remained one of the few states where inflammatory actions have never been harboured.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); That image built by sheer administrative perseverance and the CMs aversion to such elements must not be tarnished. With the all-important 2024 elections on their way, more challenges will present themselves. It is about time the government took a fresh look at weak links in Odisha Police and initiated corrective actions.
By PTI

NEW DELHI: The Andhra Pradesh Police has invoked the SC/ST Act against a hotel that served food on paper plates with pictures of B R Ambedkar on it, the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) said on Tuesday.

The NCSC received a complaint on July 8 last year through Twitter, alleging that food was served on paper plates with the picture of Ambedkar in a hotel in the Konaseema district.

When a protest was staged against this by the Dalits, the hotel owner got an FIR lodged against 18 men. The police arrested the 18 Dalit men and sent them to jail.

However, the police held an inquiry and found the allegations against the hotel owner and the paper plate seller to be true. The accused were subsequently arrested.

NCSC Chairman Vijay Sampla said during a hearing, police informed the commission that the SC/ST Act and section 295A of the IPC have been added in the matter in accordance with the commission's instructions.

The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 was enacted by Parliament to prevent atrocities and hate crimes against the members of the SC and ST communities.

The Act is popularly known as the SC/ST Act, PoA or simply, the "Atrocities Act".

The FIR against the 18 Dalit men was also cancelled at the hearing, Sampla said.

NEW DELHI: The Andhra Pradesh Police has invoked the SC/ST Act against a hotel that served food on paper plates with pictures of B R Ambedkar on it, the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) said on Tuesday. The NCSC received a complaint on July 8 last year through Twitter, alleging that food was served on paper plates with the picture of Ambedkar in a hotel in the Konaseema district. When a protest was staged against this by the Dalits, the hotel owner got an FIR lodged against 18 men. The police arrested the 18 Dalit men and sent them to jail.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); However, the police held an inquiry and found the allegations against the hotel owner and the paper plate seller to be true. The accused were subsequently arrested. NCSC Chairman Vijay Sampla said during a hearing, police informed the commission that the SC/ST Act and section 295A of the IPC have been added in the matter in accordance with the commission's instructions. The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 was enacted by Parliament to prevent atrocities and hate crimes against the members of the SC and ST communities. The Act is popularly known as the SC/ST Act, PoA or simply, the "Atrocities Act". The FIR against the 18 Dalit men was also cancelled at the hearing, Sampla said.
By Express News Service

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala will consider "with utmost seriousness" the Tamil Nadu government's proposal to pass a resolution in the state assembly urging the Union Government and the President to fix a time limit for Governors to approve Bills passed by legislatures.

The move comes amid reports of Governors appointed by the BJP sitting on bills approved by the legislatures.

Lately, Chief Minister MK Stalin on Monday gave a call for amending the Constitution to remove the anomaly of giving powers to enact legislation to the state Assemblies, which are composed of peoples representatives, and governors, who are appointed, having the power to assent to the bills passed by the House. This arrangement does not augur well for upholding the dignity of democracy. We have to take steps for amending the Constitution Stalin said while moving a resolution censuring the activities of Governor R N Ravi.

Against this backdrop, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan gave the assurance to his Tamil Nadu counterpart Stalin who wrote to him urging the Kerala assembly to pass the resolution, as done by the Tamil Nadu Assembly on April 10. Stalin had also enclosed the extract of the resolution passed by the Tamil Nadu assembly in his letter to Pinarayi.

In his letter, Stalin said his government took several efforts to clarify the doubts and concerns raised by the Governor on the bills sent for approval. "As our efforts failed and as we came to know that many other states have similar issues, we in Tamil Nadu deemed it fit to pass the resolution," Stalin said.

In Kerala, Governor Arif Mohammed Khan is yet to give assent to bills passed by the state assembly, including a bill to remove him as Chancellor of state universities. The issue of Bills pending gubernatorial assent has been the subject of frequent confrontations between the state government and the Raj Bhavan.

In his response, Pinarayi "fully appreciated" the views expressed by Stalin. He said the views are in consonance with the stand taken by Kerala. "I recall the support given by the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam to the Left Democratic Front in Kerala when the public articulated their views in a democratic manner on the issue of delay on the part of the Governor in giving assent to the bills passed by the legislature," Pinarayi said.

"As defenders of the federal spirit of our Constitution, we have to cooperate in every effort to prevent the curtailing of the functioning of elected State governments," Pinarayi said in his letter. The Kerala Chief Minister also assured Stalin that the state government was ready to extend "wholehearted cooperation" to Tamil Nadu on the matter.

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala will consider "with utmost seriousness" the Tamil Nadu government's proposal to pass a resolution in the state assembly urging the Union Government and the President to fix a time limit for Governors to approve Bills passed by legislatures. The move comes amid reports of Governors appointed by the BJP sitting on bills approved by the legislatures. Lately, Chief Minister MK Stalin on Monday gave a call for amending the Constitution to remove the anomaly of giving powers to enact legislation to the state Assemblies, which are composed of peoples representatives, and governors, who are appointed, having the power to assent to the bills passed by the House. This arrangement does not augur well for upholding the dignity of democracy. We have to take steps for amending the Constitution Stalin said while moving a resolution censuring the activities of Governor R N Ravi. googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Against this backdrop, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan gave the assurance to his Tamil Nadu counterpart Stalin who wrote to him urging the Kerala assembly to pass the resolution, as done by the Tamil Nadu Assembly on April 10. Stalin had also enclosed the extract of the resolution passed by the Tamil Nadu assembly in his letter to Pinarayi. In his letter, Stalin said his government took several efforts to clarify the doubts and concerns raised by the Governor on the bills sent for approval. "As our efforts failed and as we came to know that many other states have similar issues, we in Tamil Nadu deemed it fit to pass the resolution," Stalin said. In Kerala, Governor Arif Mohammed Khan is yet to give assent to bills passed by the state assembly, including a bill to remove him as Chancellor of state universities. The issue of Bills pending gubernatorial assent has been the subject of frequent confrontations between the state government and the Raj Bhavan. In his response, Pinarayi "fully appreciated" the views expressed by Stalin. He said the views are in consonance with the stand taken by Kerala. "I recall the support given by the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam to the Left Democratic Front in Kerala when the public articulated their views in a democratic manner on the issue of delay on the part of the Governor in giving assent to the bills passed by the legislature," Pinarayi said. "As defenders of the federal spirit of our Constitution, we have to cooperate in every effort to prevent the curtailing of the functioning of elected State governments," Pinarayi said in his letter. The Kerala Chief Minister also assured Stalin that the state government was ready to extend "wholehearted cooperation" to Tamil Nadu on the matter.
Pooja Rajawat and Jayam Jha By

Express News Service

The other day, renowned academician and constitutional expert Prof. Faizan Mustafa was delivering a lecture on Diversity Management under the Constitution of India at the National Law University, Jodhpur. He said that since the DNA of every individual is not the same, diversity is in the very scheme of the creation of human beings by God and thus, diversity management within the Constitution is a hallmark of every successful civilisation.

Relevant to this discourse of diversity management is the recent plea in the Supreme Court to direct the state to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC). The court held that it cannot issue the writ of mandamus, ordering Parliament to enact any statute. The formulation of the legislative framework for the enforcement of UCC is a policy matter of the elected representatives. The concern around the enactment of UCC dates back to the Constitutional Assembly debates in 1949. Against the backdrop of gory communal conflicts in the wake of partition, the Constituent Assembly deliberated upon the issue of the nature of personal laws in independent India.

ALSO READ | In UP badlands, will Atiq's killing see new breed of criminals who seek fame by targeting bigger fish?

There were primarily two differing opinions amongst the members of the Constituent Assembly.

One faction was advocating using the mandates of the Constitution to advance radical changes in the archaic and conservative structure of religious institutions and their practices. Another group advocated resorting to a more pragmatic approach -- that instead of bringing about a radical change by creating a UCC, the state should extend protection to the personal rights of the minorities at present while at the same time, it should also work in the direction of building consensus among different communities for uniform personal laws. When the matter was put to vote in the Constituent Assembly, it was decided to keep the provision of a UCC outside the purview of fundamental rights and it was thus, included as a directive principle of state policy. This culminated in Article 44 of the Constitution of India, which enumerates that "the State shall endeavour to secure for the citizens a uniform civil code throughout the territory of India".

When in 1954, Prime Minister Pandit Nehru introduced the Hindu Code Bill in place of a UCC, he reasoned that the right moment had not come for the latter's introduction and thus, the government did not want to externally push for its implementation.

The Supreme Court has time and again analysed the nature of Article 44 of the Constitution. In Sarla Mudgal v. Union of India, the court observed that personal laws based on religion had created inconsistencies and discriminatory practices and that a UCC would help to remove these disparities and promote the unity and integrity of the nation. In Lily Thomas vs. Union of India, the court deliberated on the need for coming up with policy guidelines with regard to a UCC. However, at the same time, the court also refrained from directing the government with any binding order in this regard since it falls within the ambit of the directive principles of state policy.

While analysing the question of a UCC, we cannot ignore its perceived effect on religious and cultural minorities. In Sarla Mudgal v. Union of India, Justice RM Sahai observed that the idea of a UCC can be conceptualised in practice only when the "social climate is properly built up by the elite of the society, statesmen amongst leaders, who instead of gaining personal mileage rise above and awaken the masses to accept the change". What he could have meant was that any codification of the personal laws of minorities to make it relatively progressive cannot be successful without ensuring that the subjects, on whom the laws will be applicable, are progressive enough to accept it. With the educational, economic and intellectual development of communities, their archaic conservatism gradually withers away. The 21st Law Commission also noted that a UCC was neither necessary nor desirable as most nations are currently moving towards an acknowledgement of distinction.

Web Scrawl | Read our series of web exclusives here

India's personal laws are often discriminatory towards women, particularly in matters of marriage, divorce and inheritance. Implementing a UCC could be an opportunity to ensure that all citizens are subject to the same laws and are treated equally before the law, regardless of their gender or religious affiliation. However, Flavia Agnes in her book Personal Laws in India: The Distortion of Equality writes that any proposal for a UCC must focus on the concerns and needs of women from marginalised communities, who may be disproportionately affected by the implementation of a UCC.

The UCC proposal is being presented as a solution to the problem of gender inequality in India, without taking into account the underlying social, economic, and political structures that perpetuate this inequality. The UCC cannot be a magic wand that will solve all the problems of gender inequality overnight. Instead, what is needed is a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of gender inequality, including issues such as caste, class, patriarchy, and poverty. At the same time, the Constitution of India extends protection to religious and cultural minorities as a group but it does not extend the same exclusive protection of fundamental rights to sexual minorities as a group. Any policy framework for a UCC must provide equal recognition to their rights as well.

In Pannalal Bansilal Pitti and Ors. v. State of AP. and Anr, the court observed that the directive principles in themselves enshrine the idea of diversity. In a democratic society that follows the rule of law, change should be gradual and progressive. As Naziruddin Ahmad, a Constituent Assembly member from West Bengal, remarked with regard to the UCC, "We should proceed not in haste but with caution, with experience, with statesmanship, and with sympathy."

(Pooja Rajawat is the Deputy Convenor of Legal Aid and Awareness Committee, National Law University, Jodhpur. Jayam Jha is a third-year student of law at National Law University, Jodhpur.)

The other day, renowned academician and constitutional expert Prof. Faizan Mustafa was delivering a lecture on Diversity Management under the Constitution of India at the National Law University, Jodhpur. He said that since the DNA of every individual is not the same, diversity is in the very scheme of the creation of human beings by God and thus, diversity management within the Constitution is a hallmark of every successful civilisation. Relevant to this discourse of diversity management is the recent plea in the Supreme Court to direct the state to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC). The court held that it cannot issue the writ of mandamus, ordering Parliament to enact any statute. The formulation of the legislative framework for the enforcement of UCC is a policy matter of the elected representatives. The concern around the enactment of UCC dates back to the Constitutional Assembly debates in 1949. Against the backdrop of gory communal conflicts in the wake of partition, the Constituent Assembly deliberated upon the issue of the nature of personal laws in independent India. ALSO READ | In UP badlands, will Atiq's killing see new breed of criminals who seek fame by targeting bigger fish?googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); There were primarily two differing opinions amongst the members of the Constituent Assembly. One faction was advocating using the mandates of the Constitution to advance radical changes in the archaic and conservative structure of religious institutions and their practices. Another group advocated resorting to a more pragmatic approach -- that instead of bringing about a radical change by creating a UCC, the state should extend protection to the personal rights of the minorities at present while at the same time, it should also work in the direction of building consensus among different communities for uniform personal laws. When the matter was put to vote in the Constituent Assembly, it was decided to keep the provision of a UCC outside the purview of fundamental rights and it was thus, included as a directive principle of state policy. This culminated in Article 44 of the Constitution of India, which enumerates that "the State shall endeavour to secure for the citizens a uniform civil code throughout the territory of India". When in 1954, Prime Minister Pandit Nehru introduced the Hindu Code Bill in place of a UCC, he reasoned that the right moment had not come for the latter's introduction and thus, the government did not want to externally push for its implementation. The Supreme Court has time and again analysed the nature of Article 44 of the Constitution. In Sarla Mudgal v. Union of India, the court observed that personal laws based on religion had created inconsistencies and discriminatory practices and that a UCC would help to remove these disparities and promote the unity and integrity of the nation. In Lily Thomas vs. Union of India, the court deliberated on the need for coming up with policy guidelines with regard to a UCC. However, at the same time, the court also refrained from directing the government with any binding order in this regard since it falls within the ambit of the directive principles of state policy. While analysing the question of a UCC, we cannot ignore its perceived effect on religious and cultural minorities. In Sarla Mudgal v. Union of India, Justice RM Sahai observed that the idea of a UCC can be conceptualised in practice only when the "social climate is properly built up by the elite of the society, statesmen amongst leaders, who instead of gaining personal mileage rise above and awaken the masses to accept the change". What he could have meant was that any codification of the personal laws of minorities to make it relatively progressive cannot be successful without ensuring that the subjects, on whom the laws will be applicable, are progressive enough to accept it. With the educational, economic and intellectual development of communities, their archaic conservatism gradually withers away. The 21st Law Commission also noted that a UCC was neither necessary nor desirable as most nations are currently moving towards an acknowledgement of distinction. Web Scrawl | Read our series of web exclusives here India's personal laws are often discriminatory towards women, particularly in matters of marriage, divorce and inheritance. Implementing a UCC could be an opportunity to ensure that all citizens are subject to the same laws and are treated equally before the law, regardless of their gender or religious affiliation. However, Flavia Agnes in her book Personal Laws in India: The Distortion of Equality writes that any proposal for a UCC must focus on the concerns and needs of women from marginalised communities, who may be disproportionately affected by the implementation of a UCC. The UCC proposal is being presented as a solution to the problem of gender inequality in India, without taking into account the underlying social, economic, and political structures that perpetuate this inequality. The UCC cannot be a magic wand that will solve all the problems of gender inequality overnight. Instead, what is needed is a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of gender inequality, including issues such as caste, class, patriarchy, and poverty. At the same time, the Constitution of India extends protection to religious and cultural minorities as a group but it does not extend the same exclusive protection of fundamental rights to sexual minorities as a group. Any policy framework for a UCC must provide equal recognition to their rights as well. In Pannalal Bansilal Pitti and Ors. v. State of AP. and Anr, the court observed that the directive principles in themselves enshrine the idea of diversity. In a democratic society that follows the rule of law, change should be gradual and progressive. As Naziruddin Ahmad, a Constituent Assembly member from West Bengal, remarked with regard to the UCC, "We should proceed not in haste but with caution, with experience, with statesmanship, and with sympathy." (Pooja Rajawat is the Deputy Convenor of Legal Aid and Awareness Committee, National Law University, Jodhpur. Jayam Jha is a third-year student of law at National Law University, Jodhpur.)
By PTI

WASHINGTON: A multi-agency investigation has led to the arrest of 17 people, mostly members of the local Sikh community, in connection with 11 shootings, including one at a Gurdwara in Sacramento, and have seized assault weapons in a series of raids carried out over 20 places, authorities have announced.

Law enforcement officials in Northern California on Monday said members of these groups were allegedly involved in a mass shooting at a Stockton Sikh temple where five men were shot outside the Gurdwara on August 27, 2022, and a shooting at a Sacramento Sikh temple on March 23, 2023, where two men were shot.

The 17 felony arrests, primarily members of the local Sikh community, were made during a large-scale operation with agents executing search warrants at 20 locations in Northern California on Sunday, according to an announcement made by California Attorney General Rob Bonta, Yuba City Police Chief Brian Baker, and Sutter County District Attorney Jennifer Dupre.

Police seized 42 guns, such as AK-47s, handguns, and at least one machine gun, Dupre said.

At a news conference, Dupre said, two of the people arrested are mafia members who are "wanted on a number of murders" in India.

The arrested members, said California Attorney General, are part of rival criminal syndicates alleged to be responsible for numerous violent crimes and shootings, including five attempted murders, in Sutter, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Solano, Yolo, and Merced counties.

Throughout the investigation, known as Operation Broken Sword, 41 firearms were confiscated from suspects.

A press release said that law enforcement was able to prevent two additional shootings from occurring.

"Today, California is safer thanks to collaboration, determination, and swift action by DOJ agents and our law enforcement partners in Sutter County," said California Attorney General Rob Bonta.

Bonta said there is more to be done to prevent gun violence.

"There will be more takedowns. There will be more guns removed from dangerous individuals," he said.

"No family should ever have to worry about drive-by shootings or other forms of gun violence in the neighbourhoods where their children live and play.

As a result of this joint law enforcement effort, we're taking guns off the street and putting suspected gang members and their associates behind bars," he said.

"An investigation of this magnitude requires a tremendous amount of time and effort, and especially a lot of personnel," said Sutter County District Attorney General Dupre.

Yuba City, a city of nearly 70,000 people along the Feather River just north of Sacramento, has a large Sikh community.

Locals often refer to the area as "mini Punjab".

Each November, tens of thousands of people travel to the city for Nagar Kirtan, one of the largest Sikh gatherings in the US.

Sikhs also have a large presence throughout California's Central Valley.

The Sacramento County Assistant Sheriff said seven of the shootings occurred in Sacramento County within the past year.

WASHINGTON: A multi-agency investigation has led to the arrest of 17 people, mostly members of the local Sikh community, in connection with 11 shootings, including one at a Gurdwara in Sacramento, and have seized assault weapons in a series of raids carried out over 20 places, authorities have announced. Law enforcement officials in Northern California on Monday said members of these groups were allegedly involved in a mass shooting at a Stockton Sikh temple where five men were shot outside the Gurdwara on August 27, 2022, and a shooting at a Sacramento Sikh temple on March 23, 2023, where two men were shot. The 17 felony arrests, primarily members of the local Sikh community, were made during a large-scale operation with agents executing search warrants at 20 locations in Northern California on Sunday, according to an announcement made by California Attorney General Rob Bonta, Yuba City Police Chief Brian Baker, and Sutter County District Attorney Jennifer Dupre.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Police seized 42 guns, such as AK-47s, handguns, and at least one machine gun, Dupre said. At a news conference, Dupre said, two of the people arrested are mafia members who are "wanted on a number of murders" in India. The arrested members, said California Attorney General, are part of rival criminal syndicates alleged to be responsible for numerous violent crimes and shootings, including five attempted murders, in Sutter, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Solano, Yolo, and Merced counties. Throughout the investigation, known as Operation Broken Sword, 41 firearms were confiscated from suspects. A press release said that law enforcement was able to prevent two additional shootings from occurring. "Today, California is safer thanks to collaboration, determination, and swift action by DOJ agents and our law enforcement partners in Sutter County," said California Attorney General Rob Bonta. Bonta said there is more to be done to prevent gun violence. "There will be more takedowns. There will be more guns removed from dangerous individuals," he said. "No family should ever have to worry about drive-by shootings or other forms of gun violence in the neighbourhoods where their children live and play. As a result of this joint law enforcement effort, we're taking guns off the street and putting suspected gang members and their associates behind bars," he said. "An investigation of this magnitude requires a tremendous amount of time and effort, and especially a lot of personnel," said Sutter County District Attorney General Dupre. Yuba City, a city of nearly 70,000 people along the Feather River just north of Sacramento, has a large Sikh community. Locals often refer to the area as "mini Punjab". Each November, tens of thousands of people travel to the city for Nagar Kirtan, one of the largest Sikh gatherings in the US. Sikhs also have a large presence throughout California's Central Valley. The Sacramento County Assistant Sheriff said seven of the shootings occurred in Sacramento County within the past year.
By Associated Press

KHARTOUM: Washington's top diplomat said Tuesday that a U.S. Embassy convoy came under fire in Sudan and denounced indiscriminate military operations as the countrys armed forces and a powerful rival unleashed heavy weapons in urban areas for a fourth day.

The convoy of clearly marked embassy vehicles was attacked on Monday, and preliminary reports link the assailants to the Rapid Support Forces, the paramilitary group battling Sudan's military, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters. Everyone in the convoy was safe, Blinken said.

The convoy attack, along with earlier assaults on aid workers and the EU envoy's residence in the capital of Khartoum, signaled further descent into chaos since the battle by two rival generals for control of Africa's third-largest country erupted over the weekend.

More than 185 people have been killed and more than 1,800 wounded, according to U.N. figures, which did not include a breakdown of civilians and combatants. The Sudan Doctors' Syndicate said Tuesday that at least 144 civilians were killed and more than 1,400 wounded since Saturday.

The overall death toll could be much higher because clashes in Khartoum have prevented the removal of bodies in some areas.

The two sides have been using tanks, artillery and other heavy weapons in densely populated areas.

A man sits by shuttered shops in Khartoum, Sudan, Monday, April 17, 2023. (Photo | AP)

EXPLAINER | What sparked the violent struggle to control Sudan's future?

Late Monday, fighter jets swooped overhead and anti-aircraft fire lit up the skies as darkness fell. Fighting resumed early Tuesday around each sides main bases and at strategic government buildings  all of which are in residential areas.

Satellite images from Maxar Technologies taken Monday showed damage across Khartoum, including security service buildings. Tanks stood guard at a bridge over the White Nile River and other locations in the capital.

Satellite images from Planet Labs PBC, also taken Monday, showed some 20 damaged aircraft at Khartoum International Airport, which also has a military side. Some had been completely destroyed, with one still belching smoke. At the El Obeid and Merowe air bases, north and south of Khartoum, several fighter jets were among the destroyed aircraft.

Top diplomats have urged the two rival generals  armed forces chief Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan and RSF leader Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo  to halt fighting.

The State Department said late Monday that Blinken spoke by phone separately with the two generals.

I made very clear (in my calls) that any attacks or threats or dangers posed to our diplomats were totally unacceptable, Blinken told reporters at the Group of Seven wealthy nations meeting in Japan on Tuesday,

He appealed for an immediate 24-hour cease-fire, as a foundation for a longer truce and a return to negotiations. Indiscriminate military operations have resulted in significant deaths and injuries, recklessly endangering civilians, diplomats, including U.S. personnel, and humanitarian personnel, he said.

Following a conversation with U.S. Secretary of State @SecBlinken and outreach by other friendly nations similarly calling for a temporary ceasefire, The RSF reaffirms its approval of a 24 HR armistice to ensure the safe passage of civilians and the evacuation of the wounded. 1/4  Mohamed Hamdan Daglo (@GeneralDagllo) April 18, 2023

Dagalo said in a series of tweets Tuesday that he had approved a 24-hour humanitarian truce after speaking to Blinken while the Sudanese military said more troops would join the battle and that it would "widen the scope of its operations against the RSF.

Burhan and Dagalo, former allies who jointly orchestrated an October 2021 coup, have dug in, demanding the other's surrender. The violence has raised the specter of civil war just as Sudanese were trying to revive the drive for a democratic, civilian government after decades of military rule.

The Sudanese military blamed the RSF, which grew out of the notorious Janjaweed militias in Sudan's Darfur region, for the attack on the U.S. convoy and an earlier assault on the home of the EU envoy in Khartoum.

ALSO READ | Sudan clashes: Keralaite hit by stray bullet dies; he was talking on phone with son in Canada

The European Unions foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell tweeted Monday that the EU ambassador to Sudan was assaulted in his own residency, without providing further details.

The RSF denied involvement in the attack on the ambassadors home, instead blaming the military. However, a Western diplomat in Cairo said the residence was ransacked by armed men in RSF uniforms. No one was hurt but the armed men stole several items, said the diplomat who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not allowed to talk to media.

Under international pressure, Burhan and Dagalo had recently agreed to a framework agreement with political parties and pro-democracy groups, but the signing was repeatedly delayed as tensions rose over the integration of the RSF into the armed forces and the future chain of command.

Both generals have a long history of human rights abuses and their forces have cracked down on pro-democracy activists.

Only four years ago, Sudan inspired hope after a popular uprising helped depose long-time autocratic leader Omar al-Bashir.

But the turmoil since, especially the 2021 coup, has frustrated the democracy drive and wrecked the economy. A third of the population  around 16 million people  now depends on humanitarian assistance in the resource-rich nation.

KHARTOUM: Washington's top diplomat said Tuesday that a U.S. Embassy convoy came under fire in Sudan and denounced indiscriminate military operations as the countrys armed forces and a powerful rival unleashed heavy weapons in urban areas for a fourth day. The convoy of clearly marked embassy vehicles was attacked on Monday, and preliminary reports link the assailants to the Rapid Support Forces, the paramilitary group battling Sudan's military, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters. Everyone in the convoy was safe, Blinken said. The convoy attack, along with earlier assaults on aid workers and the EU envoy's residence in the capital of Khartoum, signaled further descent into chaos since the battle by two rival generals for control of Africa's third-largest country erupted over the weekend.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); More than 185 people have been killed and more than 1,800 wounded, according to U.N. figures, which did not include a breakdown of civilians and combatants. The Sudan Doctors' Syndicate said Tuesday that at least 144 civilians were killed and more than 1,400 wounded since Saturday. The overall death toll could be much higher because clashes in Khartoum have prevented the removal of bodies in some areas. The two sides have been using tanks, artillery and other heavy weapons in densely populated areas. A man sits by shuttered shops in Khartoum, Sudan, Monday, April 17, 2023. (Photo | AP) EXPLAINER | What sparked the violent struggle to control Sudan's future? Late Monday, fighter jets swooped overhead and anti-aircraft fire lit up the skies as darkness fell. Fighting resumed early Tuesday around each sides main bases and at strategic government buildings  all of which are in residential areas. Satellite images from Maxar Technologies taken Monday showed damage across Khartoum, including security service buildings. Tanks stood guard at a bridge over the White Nile River and other locations in the capital. Satellite images from Planet Labs PBC, also taken Monday, showed some 20 damaged aircraft at Khartoum International Airport, which also has a military side. Some had been completely destroyed, with one still belching smoke. At the El Obeid and Merowe air bases, north and south of Khartoum, several fighter jets were among the destroyed aircraft. Top diplomats have urged the two rival generals  armed forces chief Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan and RSF leader Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo  to halt fighting. The State Department said late Monday that Blinken spoke by phone separately with the two generals. I made very clear (in my calls) that any attacks or threats or dangers posed to our diplomats were totally unacceptable, Blinken told reporters at the Group of Seven wealthy nations meeting in Japan on Tuesday, He appealed for an immediate 24-hour cease-fire, as a foundation for a longer truce and a return to negotiations. Indiscriminate military operations have resulted in significant deaths and injuries, recklessly endangering civilians, diplomats, including U.S. personnel, and humanitarian personnel, he said. Following a conversation with U.S. Secretary of State @SecBlinken and outreach by other friendly nations similarly calling for a temporary ceasefire, The RSF reaffirms its approval of a 24 HR armistice to ensure the safe passage of civilians and the evacuation of the wounded. 1/4  Mohamed Hamdan Daglo (@GeneralDagllo) April 18, 2023 Dagalo said in a series of tweets Tuesday that he had approved a 24-hour humanitarian truce after speaking to Blinken while the Sudanese military said more troops would join the battle and that it would "widen the scope of its operations against the RSF. Burhan and Dagalo, former allies who jointly orchestrated an October 2021 coup, have dug in, demanding the other's surrender. The violence has raised the specter of civil war just as Sudanese were trying to revive the drive for a democratic, civilian government after decades of military rule. The Sudanese military blamed the RSF, which grew out of the notorious Janjaweed militias in Sudan's Darfur region, for the attack on the U.S. convoy and an earlier assault on the home of the EU envoy in Khartoum. ALSO READ | Sudan clashes: Keralaite hit by stray bullet dies; he was talking on phone with son in Canada The European Unions foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell tweeted Monday that the EU ambassador to Sudan was assaulted in his own residency, without providing further details. The RSF denied involvement in the attack on the ambassadors home, instead blaming the military. However, a Western diplomat in Cairo said the residence was ransacked by armed men in RSF uniforms. No one was hurt but the armed men stole several items, said the diplomat who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not allowed to talk to media. Under international pressure, Burhan and Dagalo had recently agreed to a framework agreement with political parties and pro-democracy groups, but the signing was repeatedly delayed as tensions rose over the integration of the RSF into the armed forces and the future chain of command. Both generals have a long history of human rights abuses and their forces have cracked down on pro-democracy activists. Only four years ago, Sudan inspired hope after a popular uprising helped depose long-time autocratic leader Omar al-Bashir. But the turmoil since, especially the 2021 coup, has frustrated the democracy drive and wrecked the economy. A third of the population  around 16 million people  now depends on humanitarian assistance in the resource-rich nation.
Dubai welcomed 3.1 million tourists in the first two months of 2023, representing a 42% increase over the same period in 2022 and the city's hotel stock climbed to 150,000 keys. Around 8,000 keys are expected to be delivered in the year, according to the latest JLL UAE Real Estate Market Overview Report.



The UAEs hospitality sector witnessed a strong growth trajectory in the first quarter of 2023, driven by a steady influx of tourists from three top source markets, namely, India, Russia, and Oman, the report said.



The rise in inbound tourism also benefited the lower and mid-tier hospitality segments, which saw gains between 7-8 basis points (bps) in occupancy and RevPAR (revenue per available room) of 15% for the first two months of the year. Moreover, Dubai and Abu Dhabi hosting events such as Gulf Food and IDEX further aided operators in delivering a formidable performance.



Faraz Ahmed, Associate, Research at JLL Mena, said: While all sectors continued to build on the performance of 2022, the years well-planned calendar of events coupled with the continuous increase in tourist numbers, have firmly placed the hospitality sector on a growth track, reaffirming its position as one of the strongest pillars supporting the UAEs economic acceleration. However, macroeconomic volatilities continue to influence global travel trends, making it critical for operators to employ effective revenue management strategies to boost topline revenues, particularly those in the luxury segment.



Dubais hotel stock climbed to 150,000 keys with the delivery of around 2,000 keys. Moreover, propelled by increased demand, around 8,000 keys are expected to be delivered in the year. In comparison, Abu Dhabi's hotel supply completions were limited, with around 200 keys added to the existing inventory, bringing the total stock to 32,500 keys. The capital's future supply pipeline for the year remains modest at around 200 keys.



The retail sector remains stable; steady pipeline ahead

Within the retail sector, around 34,000 sq m of space was added in Dubai in the form of community retail developments, raising the total stock to around 4.7 million sq m in the first quarter. Over the same period, Abu Dhabi saw the delivery of a super regional and community retail development totalling 212,000 sq m of retail GLA (Gross Leasable Area) which subsequently pushed the capitals total stock to 3.11 million sq m In the forthcoming months, around 213,000 sq m of retail space is scheduled to be delivered in both emirates combined, of which, approximately 194,000 sq m is projected for Dubai and 19,000 sq m for the capital.



In Dubai, well-located primary malls outperformed the overall market in Q1 2023, with average rents increasing by 1% year-on-year, while city-wide average rents for primary and secondary malls decreased by 1% year-on-year.



Some key developments within the sector included landlords tightening lease terms with tenants, moving away from previous revenue share models, and offering little capex (capital expenditure) support unless in highly exceptional cases. On the other hand, malls with near-full occupancy are restructuring spaces to accommodate more tenants and generate additional revenue. Some are also dividing large anchor stores as well as utilising other common areas to lease out additional space.



Average rents in Abu Dhabi remained stable in annual terms in the first three months of 2023. In comparison to Dubai, landlords in the capital continued to showcase flexibility, offering incentives to attract and retain tenants. Depending upon the brand, property managers are also able to negotiate offers on revenue-based deals and extended fit-out periods.



Off-plan transactions trump existing properties in leading residential sales

In the residential sector, off-plan sales began to recover in Q3 2022 in Dubai, propelled by new launches late last year. The trend has continued for the third consecutive quarter, with off-plan transactions outperforming existing properties in terms of value and volume, accounting for 56% of total value and 59% of total volume. This strongly indicates that both developer and investor confidence has returned to the off-plan market.



Similarly in Abu Dhabi, off-plan transactions have also been leading the market since the second half of last year, supported by a number of new project launches. According to data from Quanta, off-plan property transactions accounted for around 74% of the value of total residential sales. With residents preferring to relocate to developments offering modern amenities on the new islands, pressure on the prices of outdated projects on the main island continues to build. As a result, average city-wide sale prices and rental rates increased modestly by 1% each.



When viewed in annual terms, rents in Dubai increased by 28% in February 2023 with demand for large units, especially villas, continuing to push up rentals. Furthermore, in Q1 2023, a 52% increase in value and 50% in volume of residential sales activity compared to the same quarter last year have impacted sales prices, demonstrating a 12% Y-o-Y increase from 2022.



Residential supplies in Dubai rose by 9,800 units in the first quarter, raising the total stock to 690,000 units with an additional 32,000 units scheduled to be delivered in the year ahead. In the capital, around 1,800 units were added, bringing the total residential stock to 281,000 units. In terms of upcoming supply, Abu Dhabi has an additional 4,000 units in the pipeline for 2023.



Increased preference for Grade A spaces continues to drive the office sector

In a move to encourage employees to return to the office in the UAE, as well as attract and retain the best talent, corporates are increasingly looking to upgrade their real estate assets with a subsequent focus on sustainability and wellness. In addition, significant growth in enquiries from new market entrants and strong demand for flexible offices were also recorded in the first quarter of 2023.



Building upon the strong momentum of last year, the segment continued to perform well on the back of robust demand for high-quality Grade A spaces that can provide a healthy, vibrant, and experience-driven environment. As a result, in the first three months of the year, average Grade A rents in Dubais CBD rose by 16% year-on-year (Y-o-Y) to AED 2,140 per sq. m. per annum. Likewise in Abu Dhabi, a combination of high demand and limited stock for quality space pushed Grade A rents up by 9% Y-o-Y to an average of AED 1,800 per sq. m. per annum.



In addition, resolute demand has led to the fast absorption of available space within the central business district (CBD) in Dubai resulting in a drop in average vacancy to 11% while city-wide vacancies in the capital reached 23%.



The report further highlights that occupiers looking for high-quality office space are expected to face continued competition in the coming quarters, with landlords less likely to negotiate rates and CAPEX contributions.



With no noteworthy office completions across both cities in Q1 2023, the stocks remained stable at 9.1 million sq m in Dubai and 3.9 million sq m in Abu Dhabi. However, over the next three quarters, approximately 100,000 sq m of office space is scheduled to be delivered in Dubai and 35,000 sq m in the capital.  TradeArabia News Service
By Online Desk

An 85-year-old white homeowner has been in Kansas City, Missouri, has been charged with armed assault after he shot a Black teenager who rang his doorbell by mistake, authorities announced on Monday, reports said.

Andrew Lester, 85, is also facing a charge of armed criminal action after shooting Ralph Yarl, 16, twice on Thursday, The Guardian reports.

Name: Ralph Yarl

Age: 16

Race: Black

Location: Missouri

Year: 2023

Action: Rang wrong doorbell

Result: Shot by white man in home



Name: Renisha McBride

Age: 19

Race: Black

Location: Michigan

Year: 2013

Action: Knocked on a door

Result: Shot and killed by white man in home pic.twitter.com/UBFfvOimLK April 17, 2023

The teenager, a high school junior, was going to pick up his younger twin brothers from a play date when he went to the wrong address. Zachary Thompson, the prosecuting attorney, announced the charges late on Monday after intense local protests and widespread outrage over the polices decision to briefly detain Lester before releasing him without charges.

ALSO READ | Homeowner shoots, injures Black teen who went to wrong house

Lester was not in custody early Monday evening, but there was a warrant out for his arrest, Thompson said. Charging documents said that Lester came to the door when the doorbell rang and then shot the boy in the head, before shooting him again, and that no words were exchanged before he opened fire.

Yarl was recovering at home after being released from a Kansas City hospital on Sunday, where he was being treated for gunshot wounds to his head and chest, his family said.

An 85-year-old white homeowner has been in Kansas City, Missouri, has been charged with armed assault after he shot a Black teenager who rang his doorbell by mistake, authorities announced on Monday, reports said. Andrew Lester, 85, is also facing a charge of armed criminal action after shooting Ralph Yarl, 16, twice on Thursday, The Guardian reports. Name: Ralph Yarl Age: 16 Race: Black Location: Missouri Year: 2023 Action: Rang wrong doorbell Result: Shot by white man in home Name: Renisha McBride Age: 19 Race: Black Location: Michigan Year: 2013 Action: Knocked on a door Result: Shot and killed by white man in home pic.twitter.com/UBFfvOimLKgoogletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); });  Keith Boykin (@keithboykin) April 17, 2023 The teenager, a high school junior, was going to pick up his younger twin brothers from a play date when he went to the wrong address. Zachary Thompson, the prosecuting attorney, announced the charges late on Monday after intense local protests and widespread outrage over the polices decision to briefly detain Lester before releasing him without charges. ALSO READ | Homeowner shoots, injures Black teen who went to wrong house Lester was not in custody early Monday evening, but there was a warrant out for his arrest, Thompson said. Charging documents said that Lester came to the door when the doorbell rang and then shot the boy in the head, before shooting him again, and that no words were exchanged before he opened fire. Yarl was recovering at home after being released from a Kansas City hospital on Sunday, where he was being treated for gunshot wounds to his head and chest, his family said.
Delhi HC seeks Centres response on plea for linking property documents with Aadhaar

New Delhi, April 17: The Delhi High Court on Monday directed the concerned ministries to file their responses to a plea demanding linking of movable and immovable property documents with Aadhaar number.

Delhi HC seeks Centre's response on plea for linking property documents with Aadhaar

A division bench of Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma and Justice Yashwant Varma was hearing a plea filed by BJP leader and practising lawyer Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay filed in the year 2019.The bench sought responses from the Union Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), the Ministry of Rural Development and the Ministry of Law.During the hearing, the court noted that the registry has pointed out some defects in Upadhyay's application and then directed him to correct those.The bench also asked the government authorities to file their responses.Appearing for the Centre, Additional Solicitor General (ASG) Chetan Sharma said that the case brings out an important issue.It is the petitioner's case that linking movable-immovable properties with the owner's Aadhaar number would curb corruption, black money and benami transactions.In light of Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, the government is duty bound to take apposite steps to curb corruption and black money and seize benami properties, Upadhyay said."Black money holders would be forced to declare their unaudited movable and unmovable properties and it will take years to generate that amount of benami property again. Thus, in a long way it will help in putting an end to the black money generation."Talking about annual growth, Upadhyay has claimed that if the government made it mandatory to link property documents with Aadhaar, it would lead to an increment of two per cent."(Linking Aadhaar with property documents) will clean our electoral process, which is dominated by black money and benami transaction and thrives on a cycle of large black investments, capture of power through foul means, use of political strength to amass private wealth, all with disdain," the plea added.The bench listed the matter for the next hearing on July 18, 2023.IANS17 April 2023

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MeitY to organise 2nd meeting of G20 Digital Economy Working Group in Hyderabad

Hyderabad, April 16: Making progress on the 'G20 Digital Economy Working Group (DEWG)', the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) will organise the second in-person meeting of DEWG in Hyderabad from April 17-19, 2023, said the MeitY officials in a press conference here on Sunday.

MeitY to organise 2nd meeting of 'G20 Digital Economy Working Group' in Hyderabad

The press briefing jointly done by Alkesh Kumar Sharma, Secretary, MeitY and K. Rajaraman, Secretary (Telecom) was organised as a part of the curtain raiser event."The first day of the second meeting of DEWG will begin with side events on April 17, 2023. The inaugural address will be given by Union Minister of State of Communication, Devusinh Chauhan and Union Minister of State of Social Justice and Empowerment, A. Narayanaswamy", said the officials.The side events will focus primarily on Digital Connectivity and will comprise three-panel discussions on the thematic areas namely, 'High-Speed Mobile Broadband and its Impact on Lives, Society and Industry', 'Digital Inclusion Connecting the Unconnected', and 'Sustainable, Green Digital Infrastructure Challenges and Opportunities'. Global experts will share their experience in emerging and telecom technologies and on technology-led inclusive development, the officials said.The officials further added, "On the second and third day of the meetings, G20 Members, invited guest countries and International Organisations will have an extensive discussion on the actionable deliverables in priority areas namely 'Digital Public Infrastructure', 'Cybersecurity' and 'Digital Skilling'."As per the press conference, the delegates will visit the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Hyderabad to gain first-hand knowledge of India's expertise in emerging digital and telecom technologies viz. 5G-i, 6G, Internet of Things (IoT) and the various uses cases pertaining to the welfare of citizens. A workshop titled 'Multi-stakeholder Consultation for Mutual Recognition of Digital Skills' will also be held on April 18, 2023.The 'Stay Safe Online (SSO)' campaign and 'G20 Digital Innovation Alliance (DIA)' have been launched under Indian Presidency to engage with common people especially youths and entrepreneurs in G20 Member States. So far, under the Stay Safe Online campaign, 1,58,000+ persons have participated in the national level Cyber Quizzes. Under DIA, 1600+ Startups have applied for the contest, informed the officials.ANI17 April 2023

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About 20,000 PSU non-life insurers employees should be deployed in marketing: EY

Chennai, April 17: There could be a huge influx of insurance marketing personnel in the market as nearly 20,000 employees of the government-owned general insurance companies are recommended be deployed in that role, as per consultancy firm Ernst and amp; Young's (EY) report.

About 20,000 PSU non-life insurers employees should be deployed in marketing: EY

On the other hand, a union leader told IANS that the move should be to merge the four companies and not purge the employees.The EY has been hired by the four government owned non-life insurers - the National Insurance Company Ltd, the Oriental Insurance Company Ltd, the United India Insurance Company Ltd and The New India Assurance Company Ltd - to suggest restructuring of operations.According to the EY report, 50 per cent staff of every office should be deployed in marketing.The four companies have about 40,000 employees and about 50 per cent of them - 20,000- have to be deployed in business development roles, is the surmise.If implemented, most of the fixed cost employees - clerical and administrative- will soon be meeting their own salary cost by fetching a premium.Prior to the opening up of the sector for private participation, some administrative staff used to bring in business - even corporate business. However, instead of encouraging such staff, they were discouraged.Even if the companies are able to sell their retail policies - home insurance, personal accident and others, the premium income will be sizable, an industry official told IANS.According to the official, many employees have not insured their own home and household articles against fire, burglary and other risks.The EY said it had prepared its report after interviewing over 100 stakeholders, visiting over 18 locations and over 60 offices, studying 81 data points and after studying the benchmarking elements."The four companies, when the EY started its exercise, had over 8,000 offices. And visiting over 60 of them and interacting with over 100 stakeholders, the sample size is questionable," Sanjay Jha, Secretary, Standing Committee, All India Insurance Employees' Association (AIIEA) told IANS."To the best of my knowledge, the EY team did not meet the important stakeholders of the four companies - the employee unions," Jha added.The employee unions are opposed to the EY report and their one demand is the merger of four companies into one."Changing administrative employees' role into a marketing role, that too through forcible means is a completely wrong decision. We are asking GIPSA to revisit the decision," Jha said.He said, the proposed variable pay system linking key performance indicators (KPI) indicators with performance of each employee for their future wages and promotions is a dangerous proposition."Such concept is not there in any government offices or public sector units. Moreover, insurance business is based on team effort. So, we reject the above proposal and have demanded the management to continue with our wage system with revision on five year periodicity," Jha said.The unions are also against the manpower planning suggested by EY terming it as a flawed one."It is our firm opinion that the best reform for four PSGICs is their merger into a single entity. This will help them take most advantage of economies of scale and the single large entity will be in a position to compete with 30 odd private general insurers in the most effective way," Jha said.Merge first and not purge, is the unanimous view of the various unions in the four companies.(Venkatachari Jagannathan can be reached at v.jagannathan@ians.in)IANS17 April 2023

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Apple previews its 1st retail store in India, Tim Cook excited to build more

Mumbai, April 17: As it completes 25 years in India, Apple on Monday previewed its first own-branded retail store here that will serve as a dynamic space for customers. Next on the anvil is the second Apple retail store opening in New Delhi this week.

Apple previews its 1st retail store in India, Tim Cook 'excited' to build more

Apple CEO Tim Cook said that the company is excited to build on its long-standing history in India, as it gears up to mark a major expansion with the opening of its first retail stores in the country."India has such a beautiful culture and an incredible energy, and we're excited to build on our long-standing history -- supporting our customers, investing in local communities, and working together to build a better future with innovations that serve humanity," said Cook who will inaugurate the retail stores in the country, a first for the tech giant which has doubled down on its India growth plans.Located at Mumbai's bustling Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) financial, arts, and entertainment district, Apple BKC -- to be thrown open for public on Tuesday -- will help customers explore company products and services, enjoy exceptional service, and learn how to get more out of their devices through free Today at Apple sessions."Apple BKC is a reflection of Mumbai's vibrant culture and brings together the best of Apple in a beautiful, welcoming space for connection and community," said Deirdre O'Brien, Apple's senior vice president of Retail.Apple BKC will offer a special Today at Apple series, "Mumbai Rising," running from Tuesday (April 18) through the summer.Bringing visitors, local artists, and creatives together, these free sessions featuring Apple products and services will offer hands-on activities that celebrate the local community and culture.Apple BKC is designed to be one of the most energy-efficient Apple Store locations in the world, with a dedicated solar array and zero reliance on fossil fuels for store operations.The store is operationally carbon neutral, running on 100 percent renewable energy.Each tile is made from 408 pieces of timber, forming 31 modules per tile with a total of 1,000 tiles that make up the ceiling.There are over 450,000 individual timber elements, all of which were assembled in Delhi.Upon entering the store, customers are greeted by two stone walls sourced from Rajasthan and a 14-meter-long stainless steel staircase connecting the ground level and the cantilevered mezzanine.Apple BKC features more than 100 team members who collectively speak over 20 languages.Apple's first two retail stores in India will welcome customers from all over the country and around the world.The new Apple flagship retail stores in Mumbai and Delhi, backed by aggressive sales initiatives, will fuel Apple's growth in the year ahead, according to industry experts.Apple began manufacturing iPhone in India in 2017, and since then, the company has worked with suppliers to assemble new iPhone models and produce a growing number of components.Amid the local manufacturing push and an upcoming widespread retail store strategy, Apple shipped $7.5 billion worth iPhones and iPads in India in FY22-23, according to CMR data accessed by IANS.In FY23, Apple shipped more than 7 million iPhones and half a million iPads in the country, registering a 28 per cent growth for iPhone shipments, according to initial estimates provided by market intelligence firm CMR.As Apple doubles down on domestic manufacturing in India, the tech giant is likely to garner 6 per cent market share in FY23-34, with selling more than 8 million iPhones in the country in the period.IANS17 April 2023

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Through common digital framework, India aims to create Digital Public Goods: MoS health Dr Bharati Pravin Pawar

Goa (Panaji), April 16: Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Dr Bharati Pravin Pawar on Sunday said that through a common digital framework, India aims to create and curate Digital Public Goods.

Through common digital framework, India aims to create Digital Public Goods: MoS health Dr Bharati Pravin Pawar

Addressing the Digital Health Summit 2023 in Goa, she said, "Through a common digital framework, India aims to create and curate Digital Public Goods, enhance access to these tools by nations across the world and promote standards for interoperability, data privacy, and data security."The event was organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and cobranded with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.The theme of the event was 'Building One Health Together - Improving Health Equity', with the objective of bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, and global healthcare experts and thought leaders to deliberate upon key issues confronting the digital health space.Speaking on the occasion, Dr, Pawar thanked the participants and said that this event aligns with India's G20 Health Working Group agenda on Digital Health Innovations and solutions to aid Universal Health Coverage and improve healthcare service delivery towards One Earth, One Family, One Future.Highlighting the importance of digital health innovations, she mentioned that digital innovations are powering game changers in exponential medicine, including 3D printing, point-of-care diagnostics, robots, bioinformatics, and genomics, and is emerging as an enabler and equaliser."In addition to adoption, she emphasised that "citizen-centric" digital health systems with equitable access to high-quality treatments must remain the aim," she said.Talking about various initiatives taken by the Government of India such as Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission(ABDM), e-Sanjeevani Teleconsultation service, Ayushman Bharat-Prandhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) as well as CoWIN and their role in strengthening creation of a digital health ecosystem in the country, Dr Pawar said, "These initiatives will help us in achieving the goal of improving health service accessibility and equity across the country."She emphasized that it is high time that healthcare service delivery to the public is re-aligned to incorporate the use of new technology.She said, "Emerging technologies like AI, the Internet of things (IoT), Blockchain, 3-D printing in medical device manufacturing, etc. can help create a more holistic health ecosystem that improves health outcomes.""A global approach is often more effective and India under its G-20 Presidency has already prioritized digital health as one of its three health objectives, seeking global consensus on a global digital framework", she further added.Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant highlighted that health tech is the most significant aspect of the fourth Industrial Revolution and taking pre-emptive steps remains the key.He said, "Goa is building one of best public health infrastructures in India and was first to launch universal healthcare insurance for the people in the form of Deen Dayal Swasthya Seva Yojana (DDSSY)."While highlighting the quick implementation of digital services in the state, he said that Goa has been the 2nd fastest adopter of digital services in the country and has been giving enormous support to promote startup systems providing patient-centric care with help of health tech.He further added that policy deliberations and required regulation in this area will pave the way for more public-private partnerships to attract more investments in health tech.Dr Vinod Paul, Member (Health), NITI Aayog succinctly remarked that India is taking proactive steps by having already created a framework, fabric, platform and highway.He said that the government is working with stakeholders on the validation of digital health devices including wearable devices, and AI equipment in health systems in appropriate settings, and thus, the creation of appropriate standards where technologies can be tested. He also urged the private sector to come forward with the right thinking, ideas, vision and indeed solutions to use for various products and possibilities.Finally, he emphasized the importance of developing the capacity to process and create valuable insights from the digital data that is being created every day.The Session saw other enriching discussions on key areas like 'Leveraging and compiling Health Data towards realising the Vision of 'Health for All'; Innovating in Digital Health as well as Driving Investments in the future of Digital Health.ANI17 April 2023

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S Korea fires warning shots after N Korean boat crosses maritime border

Seoul, April 16: A South Korean Navy vessel fired warning shots to drive away a North Korean patrol boat that crossed the western de facto maritime border last week, Yonhap News Agency quoted South's military on Sunday.

S Korea fires warning shots after N Korean boat crosses maritime border

The North Korean boat crossed the Northern Limit Line (NLL) in waters northeast of South Korea's Baengnyeong Island in the Yellow Sea on Saturday at 11 am (Local Time), prompting the South Korean Navy to dispatch its Chamsuri-class patrol boat, according to the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS).After the North's boat remained unresponsive to South Korea's warning broadcasts and communication attempts, the South Korean vessel fired 10 warning shots with its autocannon and made the North Korean boat retreat, Yonhap reported.The North Korean boat made the incursion as it was chasing a Chinese fishing boat, Yonhap wrote citing sources.The JCS said there was contact between the South Korean vessel and the Chinese boat during the operation, and three of the South Korean sailors were sent to a hospital for injuries. One of them is known to have undergone surgery due to a fracture.It marked the first time since March last year that the South has fired warning shots at a North Korean patrol boat crossing the NLL, Yonhap reported.The JCS said the North's boat stayed south of the NLL for about 10 minutes, intruding past it by some 2 kilometres.A JCS official told reporters the South sees a "low possibility" of the North's boat intentionally crossing the NLL, saying that it was seen chasing a Chinese vessel while sailing on a zigzagged path.Tension remains high along the poorly defined border, the scene of a series of bloody naval clashes between the two Koreas. North Korea has never recognized the NLL, demanding that it be re-drawn further south.The incident came as North Korea remains unresponsive to routine inter-Korean calls through the joint liaison office and the military hotline since April 7.Some observers said the North may try to use the latest incursion as a pretext to prepare for sporadic provocative acts near the NLL.In October 2022, a South Korean warship fired warning shots at a North Korean merchant vessel violating the NLL in the Yellow Sea. In response, the North's military opened its warning fire against the South.ANI17 April 2023

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G20: Goa to host second Health Working Group meeting from today

Panaji, April 17: The second Health Working Group (HWG) meeting under India's G20 presidency will be held in Goa from Monday. The three-day meeting will conclude on April 19.

G20: Goa to host second Health Working Group meeting from today

According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, more than 180 delegates from 19 G20 member countries, 10 invited states and 22 international organizations will be participating in the meeting.The second HWG meeting will have thematic discussions on three priorities identified under the G20 Health Track.The first priority is Health Emergencies Prevention, Preparedness and Response with focus on One Health and AMR (antimicrobial resistance). The second is Strengthening Cooperation in Pharmaceutical Sector with a focus on access and availability to safe, effective, quality and affordable medical countermeasures (vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics). The third priority includes Digital Health Innovations and Solutions to Aid Universal Health Coverage and Improve Healthcare Service Delivery, said the official statement.Several cultural programmes infused with flavours of Goan culture have been planned for the event to showcase India's rich diversity and culture based on the Indian philosophy of 'Atithi Devo Bhava'.Delegates will also be able to experience Goa's culinary culture, besides enjoying its scenic beauty and generous hospitality, the statement said.The Health Track of the G20 India Presidency will comprise four Health Working Group (HWG) Meetings and one Health Ministerial Meeting (HMM).India plans to host four side events along with HWG meetings to enrich, supplement and support G20 discussions. A side event on Digital Health will be held on the sidelines of the second meeting of HWG at Goa on April 18-19.The meetings will also be held in different locations across the country to showcase India's rich and diverse cultures.India assumed the presidency of the G20 on December 1, 2022, marking a significant milestone. India is currently part of the G20 Troika comprising Indonesia, India and Brazil marking the first time that the troika is consisting of three developing and emerging economies.Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated that G20 India Presidency will be inclusive, action-oriented and decisive.As chair of the G20 Presidency, India aims to continue and consolidate health priorities and key takeaways from previous presidencies while highlighting critical areas that require strengthening. India also aims to achieve convergence in discussions across various multilateral fora engaged in health cooperation and work towards integrated action, the statement added.ANI17 April 2023

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MoS Lekhi joins yoga session organised by Indian Embassy in Zagreb

Zagreb [Croatia], April 16: Union Minister of State for External Affairs, Meenakashi Lekhi on Sunday joined a yoga session organised by the Indian Embassy along with the Indian community and the Friends of India in Zagreb.

MoS Lekhi joins yoga session organised by Indian Embassy in Zagreb

"Joined a yoga session organised by the Indian embassy along with the Indian community and the Friends of India in Zagreb this morning. Impressed by their enthusiasm. Happy to see India-Croatia relations growing and Indian spiritual wisdom contributing to peace, harmony and happiness," tweeted Lekhi.She is on an official visit to Croatia and Slovenia from April 15-20 to further reinforce the momentum in India's relations with these countries.Lekhi also visited Nikola Tesla Technical Museum and Zagreb City Museum in Croatia.Sharing details regarding her visit to Museum, Meenakashi Lekhi tweeted, "Visited Nikola Tesla and Zagreb City Museum and got an impression of the rich scientific and historical heritage of Croatia. Nikola Tesla, indeed a person of global importance, given what he left behind for humanity, was also influenced by Indian philosophy."She also held discussions on genomics, economics, sports, history, and politics and discussed opportunities for collaboration between India and Croatia."Had a wonderful discussion on genomics, economics, sports, history, and politics with @draganprimorac2, Ms. Martina Dalic, @IgorStimac, @AlojzijeJ. Discussed the tremendous opportunities for collaboration between India and Croatia," she tweeted.During her visit, Lekhi will hold discussions with Croatia's Foreign Minister Gordan Grlic-Radman, Culture and Media Minister Nina Obuljen and State Secretary for Political Affairs, Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, the Ministry of External Affairs said in the press release.After her visit to Croatia, Lekhi will travel to Slovenia. In Slovenia, Lekhi will call on the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Tanja Fajon and meet the Deputy Foreign Minister, according to MEA press release. She will also interact with the Indian community and participate in an AKAM event at the University of Ljubljana.The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in the press release stated, "India has close and friendly ties with Croatia and Slovenia. The visit will further reinforce the momentum in India's relations with these countries."ANI17 April 2023

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Metro Hospital Oman Branch now hiring Medical Professionals from India for Muscat Premier Polyclinic

New Delhi, April 17: Metro Hospital, one of the leading healthcare providers in India, has expanded its reach internationally with the launch of a new branch in Oman. The state-of-the-art medical centre, Muscat Premier Polyclinic, offers world-class healthcare facilities to people in Oman and the surrounding regions. It is equipped with modern medical technologies and a team of highly qualified doctors and healthcare professionals to provide exceptional patient care.

Metro Hospital Oman Branch now hiring Medical Professionals from India for Muscat Premier Polyclinic

After the successful launch of the new branch, Muscat Premier Polyclinic is now looking to hire healthcare professionals from India. They are seeking qualified and experienced Radiologists, Non-invasive Cardiologists, Laboratory Assistants, Physiotherapists, and Nurses for their international clinics. The job openings are a great opportunity for healthcare professionals to work in a prestigious healthcare institution like Metro Hospital and gain experience in an international setting."Metro Hospital is committed to providing the best possible care to patients around the world. We are proud to bring our expertise and advanced medical technologies to Oman and the surrounding regions," said Dr Sahil Lal, who is responsible for taking his father's legacy internationally.In addition to offering high-quality medical services, Muscat Premier Polyclinic is also committed to providing affordable medicines and healthcare to patients. The hospital has a team of dedicated professionals who work tirelessly to ensure that patients receive the best possible care.The new job openings at Muscat Premier Polyclinic are a great opportunity for healthcare professionals who are looking to take their careers to the next level. The hospital offers competitive salaries and benefits, as well as a supportive work environment. Interested candidates can apply for the job openings on the Metro Hospital website.Metro Hospital has established itself as a trusted brand in the healthcare industry in India and is now expanding its reach internationally. With the launch of the new branch in Oman and the job openings for healthcare professionals, Metro Hospital is poised for continued growth and success in the years to come.Follow on our Social MediasThis story is provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/PNN)ANI17 April 2023

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Vaiko urges Stalin to fulfil demands of TNs unorganised workers

Chennai, April 17: Leader of the MDMK and Member of Parliament, Vaiko, called upon Chief Minister MK Stalin to fulfil the demands of the Tamil Nadu unorganised workers federation.

Vaiko urges Stalin to fulfil demands of TN's unorganised workers

The veteran leader, in a statement on Monday, said that the unorganised workers have been raising a constant dissent against the injustices of the Union government led by the BJP. He said that the BJP government at the Centre has passed labour laws without discussing with the trade unions and benefitting corporate companies.He also said that there were no discussions in the parliament also while passing the labour laws. The MDMK leader in the statement said that the unorganised workers federation had condemned the act of the Union government which banned the two labour welfare laws.Vaiko said that the labour welfare laws were achieved after long struggles by the construction workers union.He called upon the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin to pass a resolution in the Tamil Nadu assembly to protect the unorganised workers' welfare boards constituted by the former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi.Vaiko also said Stalin, who was leading Dravidian model government, supports the rightful demands of the workers of the unorganised sector.IANS18 April 2023

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Are India and Russia negotiating Free Trade Agreement as economic ties prosper?

New Delhi, April 17: Russia plans to intensify negotiations with India to conclude a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in a bid to unlock the full potential of bilateral trade and economic relations.

Are India and Russia negotiating Free Trade Agreement as economic ties prosper?

A few hours after he arrived in New Delhi on a two-day visit starting Monday, Russian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Industry and Trade Denis Manturov outlined Moscow's plan of action to give a fillip to the existing trade and economic ties between the two countries.'We will rely on reliable foreign partners. We will make every effort to expand our cooperation ties. To exchange competencies and experience in the most promising technological areas,' said Manturov as he and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with representatives of Russian and Indian business in the Indian capital.'Particular importance is attached to the issues of mutual access of products to the markets of our countries. Together with the Eurasian Economic Commission, it is planned to intensify negotiations with India to conclude a Free Trade Agreement,' he added.Both ministers are the co-chairs of the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation (IRIGC-TEC).Jaishankar, meanwhile, spoke on the significance of improving connectivity iAA the International North-South Corridor and the Chennai-Vladivostok Maritime Corridor or the Northern Sea Route which will play an important role in the development of India-Russia trade relations in the future.Spotlighting the time-tested India-Russia ties, the EAM hoped that the payments issue will be worked out soon and the economic ties will continue to bolster in the future.The participants at the business forum considered issues of further expansion of India-Russia practical cooperation, including within the framework of the Intergovernmental Commission.'The IGC is a unique mechanism for a comprehensive discussion of topical issues of the Russian-Indian agenda with the participation of relevant departments and organizations of the two countries. We are talking not only about trade and economic relations but also about humanitarian areas of interaction, such as education and culture,' said Manturov.The attendees got acquainted with a new measure of support iAA a cluster investment platform that can be applied to joint projects. It provides for preferential loans for the development and production of priority products, subsidies for the implementation of pilot batches, and preferences for insurance premiums, and income tax.Additionally, the issue of signing an India-Russia agreement on the encouragement and mutual protection of investments is being worked out as trade preferences and mechanisms that guarantee the safety of investments will be in demand by businessmen from both countries.On Tuesday, Jaishankar and Manturov will co-chair the plenary meeting of IGC, following which a final protocol for the 24th IGC meeting will be signed.The Russian Deputy PM will also discuss issues of bilateral trade, economic and humanitarian cooperation in several bilateral meetings during his stay.(The content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com)--indianarrativeIANS18 April 2023

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IIT Madras develops screening device for assessing blood vessel health

Chennai, April 17: Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras have developed a novel, non-invasive device to assess the health and age of blood vessels and thereby provide early screening for cardiovascular diseases.

IIT Madras develops screening device for assessing blood vessel health

Called ARTSENS, the device is designed such that it can be used in routine medical examination by even non-experts, to assess and predict vascular health. It is powered by a proprietary non-imaging probe and an intelligent computing platform.Despite tremendous improvements in treatments and procedures, heart and blood vessel-related diseases continue to be the leading cause of death throughout the world. Early detection and timely intervention is the key."Portable and easy to use devices such as ARTSENS, when indigenously developed and validated, offer a significant cost advantage and can be a game changer in large scale screening and can be used by any stakeholder interested in primary prevention strategies" said Dr. Mohanasankar Sivaprakasam, Faculty-in-Charge, at Healthcare Technology Innovation Centre (HTIC) at IIT Madras, which developed the device."To the best of our knowledge, this is the first hand-held, easy-to-use, minimally operator-dependent, and cost-effective device that is suited for routine clinical practice and large-scale screening," said the team of scientists at IIT Madras, in the paper published in the Journal of Hypertension. The device has been assessed on more than 5,000 human subjects.It must be remembered that central blood pressure (BP) that is measured using a tonometer is a better predictor of heart health than peripheral BPA that is commonly measured with the arm-cuff machine. Assessments of arterial stiffness and central BP are not part of routine clinical tests due to the absence of a convenient and reliable device to measure them.ARTSENS simultaneously checks for arterial stiffness and central blood pressure. The device comprises pressure cuffs to be affixed at the upper arm and thighs and a probe applied to the surface of the neck to detect the carotid artery.It measures carotid arterial stiffness, aortic pulse wave velocity and central blood pressure, all three being important markers of cardiovascular health."The ability of ARTSENS to assess both local and arterial stiffness along with central blood pressure, all in a single test makes it extremely useful in estimating vascular health status as an early marker in multiple disease conditions," said Dr Dinu S Chandran, Department of Physiology, AIIMS New Delhi."ARTSENS can open up the window of opportunity to non-invasively monitor the changes in vascular health much before the traditional cardiovascular risk factors are deranged in individuals at risk of developing cardiovascular diseases in the future."This will provide a significant quantum of 'lead time' to intervene and correct the life course trajectory of vascular health in comparison to the conventional cardiovascular screening approaches," Chandran added.Researchers at AIIMS are doing an extensive clinical study using ARTSENS to understand the physiological underpinnings of arterial ageing in various disease conditions.A similar clinical study at Radboud University Medical Center, The Netherlands aims to investigate the association between arterial age, physical (in)activity, and cardiovascular events.IANS18 April 2023

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Its my job to repay them... Venkatesh Iyer after KKRs loss against MI in IPL match

Mumbai, April 16: Kolkata Knight Riders batter Venkatesh Iyer's record-breaking knock of 104 (51) was insufficient as Mumbai Indians managed to clinch their second victory of the Indian Premier League by 5 wickets on Sunday at Wankhede Stadium.

It's my job to repay them... Venkatesh Iyer after KKR's loss against MI in IPL match

As KKR struggled to put up a partnership and score runs against MI bowlers, Iyer rose to the occasion and performed game-changing innings with his bat. Even though he wasn't pleased with the final result, Iyer still played a knock which will go down in KKR's history. With this knock, he repaid the faith which was invested in him by the KKR management."Would have been happier if we would have finished on the winning note but nonetheless, pleased with my effort. That's the role given to me by the management and it's my job to repay them. Obviously, it was a very beautiful wicket to bat on. Once you score those 30-40 runs, it gets easy to score. Really happy to get a hundred," said Venkatesh Iyer after the match.Iyer didn't rush into scoring runs early on in his innings. He took his time, understood the pitch and capitalized on every opportunity that came his way. This unsettled MI bowlers and allowed him to score runs according to his own will."Their new ball bowlers are both swing bowlers and once you allow them to settle down, it gets difficult. So I just didn't want to let them settle. Once the swing goes away, it gets easier to play them. Once you're out there doing something for the team, you forget all the pain. The wicket was really nice and I was enjoying myself out there. In hindsight, I think we did score 15-20 runs less, and the way MI were going, they could have scored it in another over but yeah, we were a little short."KKR will try to bounce back against Delhi Capitals on Thursday at Arun Jaitley Stadium.ANI18 April 2023

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G20 Presidency of India aims for inclusive, resilient and sustainable growth: Amitabh Kant, G20 Sherpa, Inaugurates the Jindal Global Centre for G20 Studies at JGU

Sonipat, April 17: G20 Presidency of India aims for inclusive, resilient and sustainable growth, Amitabh Kant, G 20 Sherpa of India said at the Distinguished Public Lecture entitled: 'India's Presidency of G20: The Way Forward' to mark the inauguration of the Jindal Global Centre for G20 Studies at O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU).

G20 Presidency of India aims for inclusive, resilient and sustainable growth: Amitabh Kant, G20 Sherpa, Inaugurates the Jindal Global Centre for G20 Studies at JGU

Amitabh Kant dwelt on a wide-ranging overview outlining India's political and development narratives, key priorities, initiatives to reshape and reconfigure the world and how India is planning to execute the meetings for G20 ahead of the Leaders' Summit in September 2023."G20 is important because it comprises of about 85 per cent of the global GDP and about 78 per cent of the global trade, 90 per cent of the patents in the world and nearly two-thirds of the global population. The G20 Presidency moves from one country to another every year and different countries have different perspectives and priorities. It is very important to study, examine and analyse this as G20 is essentially an economic group for development and growth. Therefore, the Jindal Global Centre for G20 Studies at O.P. Jindal Global University is key to understanding how each country managed the issues and challenges facing the G20 Community. The Centre will bring in academic rigour and insight and the G20 Secretariat will be delighted to reflect on the outcome of these deliberations." He congratulated JGU on emerging as India's top-most private university and it position in international rankings."This is a period of great upheaval and turbulence across the world. The post-Covid era has seen nearly 200 million people fall below the poverty line. Nearly two decades of work done to alleviate poverty has been eliminated while a third of the world is facing recession. There's a challenge with almost 75 countries in the world facing a global debt crisis. And on top of all this, there's a huge challenge of climate action and climate finance. There is a geopolitical crisis in Europe right now with a war going on for over a year and in addition to all this, you've seen the financial crisis or the Silicon Valley Bank collapses in the United States of America and the cascading impact that you can have in other parts of the world."Providing a vision and way forward, Kant outlined the strategies for change as India takes over the leadership of the G20. "The first and foremost is the political narrative which India puts forward, the second is the priorities to shape the world and thirdly how well do we execute this presidency on ground. It's important to understand this because in the last few years, India has done a huge amount of digital transformation. India today does about 11 times more payments than what United States and Europe do together. During COVID, we provided 2 billion vaccinations to our citizens, which was all done digitally. A study by the Bank of International Settlements said that (the digital milestones) India has achieved in the last eight years, what would normally have taken 50 years.""Regarding our priorities for G20, the world is facing huge recessionary trends across the world. It's important that we talk about inclusive, sustainable growth, because without growth we will not be able to lift people above the poverty line and growth alone will have a huge impact on the lives of citizens in the global south. India aims to work with the rest of the world to drive inclusive, resilient and sustainable growth," Kant outlined. "Thirdly, we face the challenge of climate action and climate finance. As India becomes more industrialized, we will become the third biggest polluters in the world. And therefore India must become the first country in the world to industrialize without carbonizing the world.""Digital transformation will drive the growth of India for the next three decades. India's model is unique and if you look around the world there are 4 billion people who do not have a digital identity. There are 2 billion people who do not even have a bank account. There are 133 countries in the world who do not have a fast payment mechanism. India's experience can be taken to other parts of the global south and really help to transform the lives of citizens. And lastly, our next priority is about women led development. This whole cycle of women driving growth and progress and development is very, very critical." Amitabh Kant concluded.Professor (Dr) C. Raj Kumar, Founding Vice Chancellor O.P. Jindal Global University said, "It is my honour to welcome Amitabh Kant, G20 Sherpa for India to this very important inauguration. The Jindal Global Center for G20 Studies is a part of this university, as a multidisciplinary centre that will encompass all the 12 schools of the university. Kant belongs to that outstanding group of Indian civil servants who have made transformative contributions to the development of India. In his earlier avatars he has undertaken initiatives which have resulted in significantly impactful public policy reforms, as well as transformative change in society. The Jindal Global Center for G20 studies will be a permanent Center located at O.P. Jindal Global University to be able to engage in research knowledge creation, thought leadership, including hosting seminars, conferences, lectures and workshops on a variety of issues concerning G20. We have identified five important agenda points a global conference of universities from each G20 country which we concluded recently with nearly 100 universities from G20 countries; to organize a G20 Ambassadors conclave that will promote a dialogue on the future of diplomacy; to host the Global Justice Colloquium with a focus on bringing lawyers and judges from the G20 countries to discuss and debate on the state of justice systems and to host the World Sustainability Forum to engage on issues surrounding environment and climate change. And fifth to host the Global Policy and Development Dialogue for bringing together policymakers and academics to discuss about issues confronting the world of policy development."Professor Ravi Thapar Professor and Executive Dean of the Jindal School of International Affairs outlined the milestones of the Jindal School of International Affairs (JSIA) and added, "It's a very significant and momentous occasion for JSIA, to have such a distinguished lecture by an intellectual, now a diplomat from the G20. Amitabh Kant. COVID took a toll and made a dent of about USD 14 trillion in the global GDP. According to the World Inequality Lab, Paris, about 1 per cent of the world's richest population is walking away with 38 per cent of the world's wealth while the bottom 58 per cent of the global population is just about to get 2 per cent of the wealth. In a world of inequality, it becomes very important for the South to start asserting this voice and the G20 happens to be one of the most influential groups to do that."Professor (Dr) Mohan Kumar, Dean and Director Jindal Global Centre for G20 Studies said, "It is really an honour and a pleasure to welcome Amitabh Kant who has made such a difference to policy making in India. As students, no matter what you do, no matter which profession you are, as individuals, you can make a difference to society. We have outlined five priorities of the Indian presidency which we will discuss be it multilateralism, climate change, voice of the Global South, inclusive economic growth and more."The concluding address was delivered by Professor Dabiru Sridhar Patnaik, Registrar of O.P. Jindal Global University.This story is provided by OP Jindal University. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/OP Jindal University)ANI18 April 2023

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Climate Ambassadors host first batch of UAEs university students

Dubai, April 17 (ANI/WAM): The Climate Ambassadors Programme (CAP) hosted 30 university students from across the country on Saturday and discussed several climate-related issues, notably ways to reduce carbon and greenhouse gas emissions worldwide.

Climate Ambassadors host first batch of UAE's university students

This event is part of a series of CAP sessions held in Expo City Dubai. The students came from several UAE universities including the American University of Sharjah (AUS), the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT), the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence, Zayed University, New York University Abu Dhabi (NYU), and Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi.Essa Al Hashmi, Assistant Under-Secretary for Sustainable Communities and Acting Assistant Under-Secretary for Green Development and Climate Change at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) said "The Climate Ambassadors Programme reflects our commitment to involving students and youth in the climate action system by familiarising them with the scale of global challenges to climate change, and leveraging their abilities and ideas to find solutions to those challenges."He added "The Programme contributes to creating a new generation that believes in the importance of action and prioritizes climate change to lead international, governmental, and societal efforts to address the biggest challenge in human history. We are pleased to welcome the first group of university students to the Programme and look forward to more productive sessions with other students until COP28 in the UAE later this year."The Climate Ambassadors Programme was designed to be a "Youth COP", enabling them to assume the various roles and responsibilities of international stakeholders participating in COP28. As a result, Saturday's CAP sessions witnessed a productive dialogue among the referred university students in the areas of carbon and greenhouse gas emissions and their impact on global warming, as well as the worsening of environmental disasters and threats to biodiversity and living organisms, in addition to the direct damage to human health and the economy, and the escalating adverse effects to food and water security in different parts of the world.CAP allows students to join a simulation of a climate ambassadors negotiation session, where they play the role of ambassadors from a specific country and learn about the impact of climate change on that country. They then work with ambassadors from other countries to find the best possible solutions to combat climate change, develop the necessary action plans to achieve them and negotiate to reach a final agreement to approve them.CAP is a collaboration between the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) and the Expo Schools Programme. It allows students from schools and universities in the UAE to represent the roles of climate negotiators participating in this year's COP28 in Expo City Dubai.The programme welcomes students from universities and schools from around the UAE. Several sessions will be held until November 2023, as part of the preparations for hosting COP28. (ANI/WAM)ANI18 April 2023

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A day after 12 disciples died, Appasaheb Dharmadhikari deeply pained

Mumbai, April 17: Amid a raging political slugfest over the deaths of at least 12 disciples owing to heatstroke, reformer Dattatreya Narayan Dharmadhikari - revered as Appasaheb - on Monday expressed his deep anguish and pain over the tragedy.

A day after 12 disciples died, Appasaheb Dharmadhikari 'deeply pained'

In a signed statement, Appasaheb Dharmadhikari said that all those who had attended the state government's 'Maharashtra Bhushan Award 2022' function were "like my family"."The 'Shrisadasya' family is spread in India and abroad. Several people lost their lives owing to sunstroke after the award function. This is extremely painful for me since this calamity has befallen my family members. I am also feeling their loss like my own family," he said.The social worker said that the loss he experienced for the 'Shrisadasyas' was too deep for him to express in words, but prayed for the departed souls and solace to their families to bear the calamity.Appasaheb Dharmadhikari also said that while what has happened was indded tragic, he appealed that the matter should not be politicised.IANS18 April 2023

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UN chief calls for dialogue to resolve crisis in Sudan

United Nations, April 17: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday called on leaders of the Sudanese armed forces and the Rapid Support Forces to immediately cease hostilities and begin a dialogue to resolve the crisis in Sudan.

UN chief calls for dialogue to resolve crisis in Sudan

Guterres made the appeal before delivering his opening speech at a UN forum on financing for development, Xinhua news agency reported.He strongly condemned the outbreak of fighting in Sudan, noting that the situation has already led to "horrendous loss of life", including many civilians.Sudan has been witnessing armed clashes between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces since April 15.At least 97 people have been killed and hundreds of others injured since the beginning of the clashes, according to the Central Committee of Sudanese Doctors, a non-governmental body."I condemn the deaths and injuries to civilians and humanitarian workers and the targeting and looting of premise. I remind all parties of the need to respect international law, including ensuring the safety and security of all United Nations and associated personnel and humanitarian aid workers," said Guterres.The UN chief warned that any further escalation could be devastating for Sudan and the region, and urged all those with influence over the situation to support efforts to end the violence, restore order, and return to the path of transition.Guterres said he had spoken with the two Sudanese leaders during the weekend and is actively engaging with the African Union, the Arab League and leaders across the region.He reaffirmed that the people of Sudan will have the United Nations' full support for their efforts to restore the democratic transition and build a peaceful, secure future.IANS18 April 2023

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Pregnant Sana Khan issues clarification after netizens trolled her husband for pulling her at Baba Siddiques Iftar party

Mumbai, April 17: Former actor Sana Khan, who is expecting her first child with husband Mufti Anas Saiyad, attended Baba Siddique's Iftar party on Sunday. However, her and Anas' presence caught the netizens' attention for all the wrong reasons.

Pregnant Sana Khan issues clarification after netizens trolled her husband for pulling her at Baba Siddique's Iftar party

A pap video from the bash has been doing the rounds on the internet in Sana could be seen being dragged and hurried by her husband from the venue.The video irked many social media users as they thought Anas Sayed made Sanna uncomfortable."Such an illiterate man he is," an Instagram user wrote."My God. What the use of fasting when u can't treat ur pregnant wife properly. Imagine how she is treated between 4 walls," another user wrote.Sana took notice of the video and netizens' comments. In no time, Sana took to the comment section of the particular video and clarified that her partner was hurrying her on her insistence since she was feeling uneasy."This video just came to my notice. And I know it looks weird to all my lovely brothers and sisters and to me, in fact. We lost contact with driver and car once we came out and I was standing for longer than usual and started sweating and (getting) uncomfortable, so he quickly wanted to get me in so I can sit and have water and some air. I was the one to tell him let's go in quick as we did not want to disturb the paps (paparazzi), who were there clicking pics of all the guests. So just a request, please don't think otherwise. Thank you all once again for your concern. Loads of love to everyone here," she wrote.Sana, best known for featuring in Bigg Boss 6 and Salman Khan's film 'Jai Ho', quit her acting career before she married Anas in November 2020.Earlier in March 2023, she confirmed her pregnancy news in an interview."I'm looking forward to it. Obviously, it's a different journey altogether. Bohot emotionally bhi thoda mere liye as a woman ek up and down both chalta rehta hai (Emotionally, I have been facing many ups and downs). But I think it's a beautiful journey. I'm waiting to have my baby in my arms... that's it," Sana had said.ANI18 April 2023

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After Salman-SRK, Sharvari to join Aditya Chopras spy universe?

Mumbai, April 17: Actor Sharvari is in talks to join Yash Raj Films' spy universe.

After Salman-SRK, Sharvari to join Aditya Chopra's spy universe?

A source said, "Sharvari has been groomed for years within the well-oiled YRF system that has consistently produced superstars. Adi (Aditya Chopra) believes in Sharvari's talent and the industry too feels she is an artiste to watch out for. She is a fantastic actor and is extremely gorgeous. Basically, she has all that it takes to be the next female superstar of the country.""Adi feels that the time is right to signal to audiences that a new star is set to be born which is why he has roped in Sharvari into his fabled YRF Spy Universe that features some of the biggest superstars of our country like Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Deepika Padukone and Katrina Kaif. Sharvari will be part of a huge film from this universe and this announcement will blow people's minds," the source added.Sharvari made her Bollywood debut with Aditya Chopra produced film 'Bunty Aur Babli 2'. She also has a few YRF projects in her kitty which are yet to be released."YRF is betting big on Sharvari who has the acting chops and the carriage to be fit to be a part of the YRF Spy Universe. Now, let's wait and watch what they have planned for her and who she will be paired with. Aditya Chopra is expanding the Spy Universe and Sharvari will have a very prominent role to play within the timeline of this universe in the years to come," the source further said.An official announcement about Sharvari's projects is yet to be made.ANI18 April 2023

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Italian Grandeur meets Environmental Responsibility with Sircas D Aqua PU

New Delhi, April 17: Sirca, the leader in premium wood coatings and wall texture, has introduced D' Aqua PU, a new augment PU polish. With its eco-friendly, low VOC, and solvent-free formula, this water-based coating is a game changer in the Indian paint business. It is highly recommended for kids/infant furniture, or households with pregnant women and the elderly, but it also dries rapidly, making it an excellent choice for individuals who appreciate quality as well as convenience.

Italian Grandeur meets Environmental Responsibility with Sirca's D' Aqua PU

D' Aqua PU is ideal for individuals looking to make their houses more luxurious and premium. It is perfect for furniture such as doors, veneers, and solid wood due to its natural wood grain look and great wetting capabilities. The capacity of D' Aqua PU to protect surfaces from the detrimental effects of UV radiation distinguishes it from other polishes, making it a great choice for consumers who acknowledge style and sustainability.The Joint Managing Director, Apoorv Agarwal, expressed his thoughts saying, "At Sirca, we strive for excellence in all we do. Our experienced staff works relentlessly to develop research and knowledge-based offerings that fulfil the market's different demands. We are delighted to offer D' Aqua PU, a product that not only delivers quality but also preserves the environment. We have no doubt that our patrons will like this new addition to our premium wood coatings line. We are thrilled to bring this revolutionary new product to the market, and we look forward to continuing to provide our customers with the highest quality products available. With our robust dealer and distribution network spread across India, we are confident that D' Aqua PU will quickly become a household name."With its eco-friendly properties and premium finish, D'Aqua PU is a game-changer that raises the bar for quality and viability. At Sirca, it is believed that a home is not just a place to live but a reflection of your identity and personality. As a brand that prides itself on delivering Italian grandeur and craftsmanship, Sirca is excited to offer this revolutionary product to the Indian markets. Sirca's revolutionary product, D'Aqua PU is all set to exceed the expectations and transform the way paints and polishes are perceived in general. Sirca Paints is inspiring living with luxury along with utmost care for a sustainable future.Sirca India has successfully created a niche and is upgrading the living standards of its customers by building upmarket decor inspirations. The choice of leading architects, Sirca India is synonymous with a premium lifestyle as it curates, "Your Italian Autograph". The brand is empowering people to build an identity through iconic interiors offered by their premium range of truly Italian wood coatings, wall textures, glass and metal coatings, etc. From creating a market to sustaining the position of a market leader Sirca India has witnessed tremendous growth over the years through its robust dealers and distributors network spread pan India.This story is provided by GPRC. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of this article. (ANI/GPRC)ANI18 April 2023

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Israel voices concern over conflict in Sudan

Jerusalem, April 18: Israel has said it was following with concern the fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces in Sudan.

Israel voices 'concern' over conflict in Sudan

"Israel wants stability and security for Sudan," the Israeli Foreign Ministry Spokesman Lior Haiat wrote on Twitter, Xinhua news agency reported."Israel calls on all parties to refrain from violence and to return to the path of internal reconciliation, in order to conclude the process of governmental transition with a large consensus," the spokesman wrote.The armed clashes that erupted in Khartoum on Saturday left at least 97 people dead and hundreds of others injured.The conflict is expected to postpone the signing of a deal to normalize ties between Israel and Sudan, which is expected to take place after the transfer of power in Sudan to a civilian government, according to commentators on state-owned Kan TV news.Sudan first agreed to normalise ties with Israel in 2020. After paying a visit to Sudanese capital of Khartoum in February, Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen said the final normalization deal is expected to be signed by the end of 2023.IANS18 April 2023

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IPL 2023: Virat Kohli fined for breaching Code of Conduct during RCB vs CSK clash

Bengaluru, April 18: Star Royal Challengers Bangalore batter Virat Kohli has been fined 10 percent of his match fees for breaching the IPL Code of Conduct during his team's match against Chennai Super Kings at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, here.

IPL 2023: Virat Kohli fined for breaching Code of Conduct during RCB vs CSK clash

Attacking fifties from Devon Conway (83 off 45) and Shivam Dube (52 off 27) powered CSK to 226/6. The CSK bowlers then held their nerve and survived Glenn Maxwell (76 off 36) and Faf Du Plessis (62 off 33) blitzes to win the Match 24 of IPL 2023 by 8 runs on Monday night, here."Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) batter Virat Kohli has been fined 10 percent of his match fee for breaching the IPL Code of Conduct during the TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 match against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru," the IPL said in a statement."Mr. Kohli admitted to the Level 1 offence under Article 2.2 of the IPL Code of Conduct," it added.Notably, for Level 1 breaches of the Code of Conduct, the Match Referee's decision is final and binding.The statement didn't specify the incident but the fine possibly came because of Kohli's exuberant celebration of CSK batter Shivam Dube's wicket. Dube was caught by Mohammed Siraj in the deep during the 17th over, when he was threatening to take the game away from RCB.Virat didn't have a great game with the bat against CSK. After hitting a boundary against left-arm pacer Akash Singh, Kohli got unlucky, when the ball hit him off the bat and ricocheted into the stumps, forcing him to walk back to the dugout in the very first over of a mammoth chase of 227 runs.IANS18 April 2023

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Barca president denies 7-million-euro payments attempted to influence referees

Madrid, April 18: FC Barcelona President Joan Laporta held a press conference to explain the ongoing scandal around the payments of over seven million euros that the club made to the former vice-president of the Spanish Referee's Federation Enriquez Negreira.

Barca president denies 7-million-euro payments attempted to influence referees

The implication is that Barcelona used the payments to try and ensure favorable refereeing decisions over an 18-year period.Now, the club faces legal proceedings in Spain and an investigation from UEFA into the affair, a Xinhua report said.Speaking at the Camp Nou Stadium, Laporta said the money was paid for reports on match officials."We received 629 reports from Negreira along with 43 CDs, along with other briefings," said Laporta in his briefing on Monday, insisting there was no attempt to influence referees."I have documentation that show that there have never been any payments that directly attempt to sway results in sporting competitions," he commented, saying the reports were "basically technical things" such as "the profile of the referee, what games the ref in question had overseen; their manner of officiating. Very detailed briefings with CD's adding more details. Very detailed information," he said.Laporta also said all the payments were made with "detailed invoices" and declared to the tax authorities.He said Negreira had also provided "profiles on other clubs," when there was not such a "high level of data available on players.""Barca has never paid money in order to gain a sporting advantage," said the Barca president.IANS18 April 2023

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EY to slash 3,000 jobs in the US due to overcapacity: Report

San Francisco, April 18: Joining the 'Big Four' consulting firms, global professional services provider Ernst and amp; Young (EY) will slash around 3,000 jobs or 5 per cent of its workforce in the US, the media reported.

EY to slash 3,000 jobs in the US due to 'overcapacity': Report

The job cuts have been announced less than a week after the collapse of a plan to spin off EY's global consulting business into a new company, reports Financial Times."After assessing the impact of current economic conditions, strong employee retention rates and overcapacity in parts of our firm, we have made the difficult business decision to separate approximately 3,000 US employees," an EY spokesperson was quoted as saying.These actions are part of the ongoing management of our business and not a result of the recently concluded strategic review, "known as Project Everest", the company spokesperson added.Among other consulting groups, KPMG laid off close to 2 per cent of its US staff in February.Accenture would cut 2.6 per cent of its global workforce over the next 18 months, while McKinsey will reduce about 3 per cent of its workforce (about 2,000 jobs).In January, global investment firm Goldman Sachs fired more than 3,000 employees.The 'Big Four' accounting and consulting firms all went on a hiring spree during the recovery from the pandemic.However, the consulting businesses have slowed sharply over the past year after a period of outsized growth, said the report.IANS18 April 2023

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Twitter adds more govt-funded labels to global media, faces outcry

New Delhi, April 18: Twitter has put more 'government-funded media' labels on the accounts of global news outlets like Australian Broadcasting Company (ABC Australia), Australia's Special Broadcasting Service (SBS), New Zealand's public broadcaster RNZ, Sweden's SR Ekot and SVT, and Catalonia's TV3.cat.

Twitter adds more 'govt-funded' labels to global media, faces outcry

The micro-blogging platform earlier placed the 'publicly-funded' label to the BBC account and applied the 'government-funded' label to US-based NPR.ABC News said in a tweet that it is a publicly funded broadcaster, "governed by the ABC Charter which is enshrined in legislation"."For more than 90 years, the ABC has always been and remains an independent media organisation, free from political and commercial interests," it argued.SBS said the label might lead Twitter users to believe that the outlet is editorially controlled by the government."While we appreciate Twitter's motivations with regard to transparency on its platform, we believe a 'Publicly-funded media' label better reflects the hybrid public-commercial nature of our funding model and the fact that SBS retains full independence from government in our news editorial and content decision making," a company spokesperson said in a statement.CBC/Radio-Canada tweeted that "our journalism is impartial and independent"."To suggest otherwise is untrue. That is why we are pausing our activities on @Twitter," it added.Last week, American media outlet NPR became the first major news organisation to quit Twitter after the Elon Musk-run platform labelled it as a government-funded organisation.After NPR, the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) also left Twitter after being labelled as government-backed media.IANS18 April 2023

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SpaceXs next attempt to launch Starship likely on Thursday

San Francisco, April 18: After a last minute scrub, SpaceX now plans to attempt the Starship launch on Thursday, the company said on Tuesday.

SpaceX's next attempt to launch Starship likely on Thursday

"SpaceX is targeting as soon as Thursday, April 20 for the first flight test of a fully integrated Starship and Super Heavy rocket from Starbase in Texas," the company updated on its website."The 62 minute launch window opens at 828 a.m. CT (658a-pm IST) and closes at 930 a.m. CT (800a-pm IST)," it added.The first launch attempt on Monday was called off at the last minute due to an issue with the pressurisation system on Starship's first stage, a huge booster called Super Heavy."A pressurant valve appears to be frozen, so unless it starts operating soon, no launch today," CEO Elon Musk reported in a tweet on Monday.During the next attempt on Thursday, the Super Heavy booster will make a hard splashdown in the Gulf of Mexico about eight minutes after liftoff, Space.com reported.Starship's upper-stage spacecraft will make a partial lap around Earth, coming down in the Pacific Ocean near Hawaii around 90 minutes after launch, the report said."With a test such as this, success is measured by how much we can learn, which will inform and improve the probability of success in the future as SpaceX rapidly advances development of Starship," the company said.Meanwhile, Musk is keeping the expectations low."I guess I'd like to just set expectations low," Musk said during a Twitter "Spaces" event for his subscribers on Sunday evening."If we get far enough away from the launch pad before something goes wrong, then I think I would consider that to be a success. Just don't blow up the pad."There's a good chance that it gets postponed since we're going to be pretty careful about this launch," he added.Musk had previously said that there is only a 50 per cent chance that the first-ever orbital mission of SpaceX's huge Starship vehicle will be a success. But he also stressed that SpaceX is building multiple Starship vehicles at the South Texas site.These will be launched in relatively quick succession over the coming months, and there's about an 80 per cent chance one of them will reach orbit this year.SpaceX aims to use Starship as a fully reusable transportation system to carry both crew and cargo to Earth orbit, help humanity return to the Moon, and travel to Mars and beyond.IANS18 April 2023

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The Wiregrass Honor Flight project was the recent recipient of the generosity of the Wiregrass chapter of the Association of the United States Army.

A $5,000 donation was presented to Travis Parker, who is spearheading the project that will provide an all-expense paid trip to Washington, D.C., to see the memorials build in their honor for Vietnam era veterans.

The newly formed Wiregrass Honor Flight Hub has officially been recognized as a new hub for Alabama by the National Honor Flight Network and is now working on the groups major project, said Parker. Each hub creates its own board, finds veterans, and locates funding sources for the trips. Participating veterans will visit a variety of sites, including Arlington National Cemetery, the WWII Memorial, Korean War Memorial, and Vietnam Memorial.

The first Wiregrass Honor Flight is being planned for Sept. 13. We are using the week that the Vietnam Wall will be in the Wiregrass as a kickoff for the flight, Parker said.

That way the people who cant go see the Vietnam Wall in Washington, D.C., in person can get an idea of what it is like, he said. The honor flights started with a focus on World War II veterans, then the Korean War vets were added and now Vietnam-era veterans are the focus of these flights.

AUSA, as a national organization supported by local organizations throughout the country, provides a voice for the Army, supports the soldier, and honors those who have served in order to advance the security of the nation. The organization works to connect the Army, industry partners, like minded associations and other supporters at the national, regional and chapter levels, said Wiregrass AUSA Chapter President Doug Wynn.

Many of the younger veterans worked to send the original groups to see the monuments so now it is their turn to go on the honor flight themselves as a veteran, Parker added.
Vidyut on IB 71: Was my personal urge to bring the stories of the unsung heroes to the world

Mumbai, April 18: Bollywood action star and producer Vidyut Jammwal is all set to don the uniform for his upcoming spy thriller 'IB 71'. He says being an army kid he has seen the lives of the unsung heroes up-close and it was his personal urge to bring their stories to the world.

Vidyut on 'IB 71': Was my personal urge to bring the stories of the unsung heroes to the world

Vidyut said "Being an army kid I have seen the lives of our unsung heroes up-close and it was my personal urge to bring their stories to the world. Producing a film that puts the intelligence bureau at the centre of the narrative is my way of paying tribute to their sacrifices and contributions."The film talks about how our Indian Intelligence Bureau in a secret mission, outwitted the entire enemy establishment and gave our armed forces the required advantages to face the 1971 India-Pakistan war.'The Ghazi Attack' director Sankalp Reddy shares "Vidyut was keen that we make the film exactly the way we had envisioned it. Moreover, even though he is a first-time producer, it never felt like that.""The entire crew was impressed with the way Vidyut not only fleshed out his role but also slipped into the role of a producer seamlessly."'IB 71' is presented by Gulshan Kumar, T-Series Film and Reliance Entertainment. The Action Hero Films production stars Vidyut Jammwal, Anupam Kher and Vishal Jethwa in pivotal roles and is produced by Bhushan Kumar, Action Hero Films and Reliance Entertainment.Produced by Vidyut Jammwal iamp; Abbas Sayyed, co-produced by Aditya Shastri, Aditya Chowksey and Shiv Chanana. The film is directed by national award winner Sankalp Reddy with the story by Aditya Shastri and the screenplay by Storyhouse Films LLP.The film is slated for a theatrical release on May 12.IANS18 April 2023

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J-K Chief Secy instructs to complete Har Ghar Nal se Jal target this year

Jammu, April 17: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Secretary Arun Kumar Mehta on Monday held a meeting to review the on-ground implementation of various Water Supply Schemes being implemented under Jal Jeevan Mission in multiple districts through video conferencing.

J-K Chief Secy instructs to complete 'Har Ghar Nal se Jal' target this year

Those who were present on this occasion included Principal Secretary Jal Shakti, Shaleen Kabra; Secretary Jal Shakti, Deepika Sharma; Chief Engineer, Jal Shakti Jammu, Hamesh Manchanda besides other concerned officers.Works of different nature including Rapid Sand Filtration Plants, Over Head Water Tanks, laying of Pipeline network etc were inspected by the Chief Secretary. Works from districts of Budgam, Kulgam, Udhampur, Anantnag, Rajouri and Kathua were inspected virtually.According to an official statement, besides taking the stock of the pace and progress of these works the Chief Secretary asked about material supply, financial status, and even operational training of staff intended to work at these plants.Mehta stressed on completing all these water supply schemes by August 15 this year.He advised them that the workforce may be increased for the timely completion of JJM works and that financial issues be flagged for timely completion. He called for awareness drives and other IEC activities about the Jal Jeevan Mission.On the occasion, the Chief Secretary spoke to Sarpanchs and received their feedback. The latter expressed satisfaction and confidence that on completion the schemes would help provide quality water supply to all.The Sarpanchs were also asked about the status of overall developmental works carried out in their respective panchayats. Demands and grievances were noted and instructions were passed for immediate redressal for each of the raised demands/grievances."It was given out during this virtual interaction that out of 18,67,704 Households in J-K 11,05,414 had been provided the Functional Tap Connections. Moreover, works are in progress to provide tap connections to remaining 7,62,290 households," the statement said.ANI18 April 2023

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MONTGOMERY Gov. Kay Ivey has awarded $1.88 million to continue the fight against illegal drugs and drug-related crime in Alabama.

Ivey awarded $235,775 each to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency and the states seven regional drug task forces. Combined, the groups are known as the Alabama Drug Enforcement Task Force. The groups will use the funds to continue the battle against manufacturers, sellers, and abusers of illegal drugs throughout the state. The task forces are also committed to curtailing the sale and use of illegally obtained pharmaceutical drugs.

Illegal and illegally obtained drugs have been the culprit in many ruined lives and senseless crimes, Ivey said. I commend these law enforcement officers who are putting their lives at risk in order to take the menace of drugs and those who profit from this evil off the streets of our communities.

The task forces, headed by ALEA, were formed in 2018 and are made up of members from law enforcement agencies within their region. Each region comprises eight to 12 counties, although task force members have law enforcement powers in each jurisdiction.

In 2022, the Alabama Drug Enforcement Task Force worked with federal and state law enforcement officers and other partners to make 653 drug related arrests involving 1,121 drug-related cases. The task force seized nearly 715,000 grams of marijuana, 183,994 grams of methamphetamine, 46,000 grams of cocaine/crack and 38,734 grams of heroin. The task force was able to seize more than $946,954 in currency.

The grant funds will be used to cover overtime and operational and equipment expenses. The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grants using funds from the U.S. Department of Justice.

ADECA is pleased to play a role in this program that takes drugs off the streets and makes our communities safer, ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said.

ADECA administers an array of programs supporting law enforcement and traffic safety, economic development, energy conservation, water resource management and recreation development.
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An 84-year-old white man in Kansas City, Missouri, has been charged with first-degree assault for shooting a Black teen who mistakenly went to the mans home to pick up his younger brothers
Speaker McCarthy vows to pass debt bill  but can he do it?

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy is pledging to pass legislation to raise the nations debt ceiling  but only if coupled with a cap on future federal spending
Rubix UK buys Gapp Automation to raise its electrical profile

The MRO company Rubix UK has bought Bedford-based Gapp Automation, which distributes motion, control & automation (MCA) systems in the UK and Ireland. The acquisition will extend Rubixs activities into the electrical MCA sector, alongside its existing mechanical businesses. Details of the transaction have not been revealed.

Gapp will become part of the Rubix UKs Motion, Control & Automation business, keeping its existing branding, and becoming a Rubix company. Gapp's managing director and co-founder Peter Walker, sales director Graham Goodge and other members of the team will retain their current roles, except for co-founder Jattinder Panesar, who will retire. Gapp Automation will report to Bob Clark, managing director of Rubixs MCA business in the UK.

Gapps history dates back to 2008 when Peter Walker and Jattinder Panesar, both previously with Lenze, set up an operation to sell and support PLCs, I/Os and HMIs from the German automation supplier Vipa (in which Yaskawa took a controlling stake in 2012). In 2015, the business was reborn as Gapp Automation, reflecting the wider range of products and services from a variety of manufacturers that it was supplying by then.

Gapp now distributes machine controls, visualisation technologies, electric drives, linear motion, measurement and sensing, motors and gearboxes, mechanical transmission, and light and sound products. Its has 10 employees, and generated sales worth around 4m during 2022.

Over the past 15 years we have developed a comprehensive range of MCA products, from industry-leading supply partners, says Walker. Becoming part of the Rubix family is a natural next step for our business. Working more closely with Rubixs existing mechanically-focused MCA businesses, Matara and KJN, provides great synergy and a fantastic opportunity to continue our growth and business expansion plans.

We are very appreciative of the strategic alliances we have built over the past 15 years with our supply partners and we look forward to further expanding these relationships now that Gapp is a key part of Rubix UK, he adds. With our growth plans, together with gaining full access to the greater resources we will enjoy being part of Rubix, we look forward to working closely with all of our customers in the future, and developing our support resources and capabilities further.

Vince McGurk, CEO of Rubik UK (left), with Gapp Automations managing director and co-founder, Peter Walker

The acquisition further develops our multi-specialist offer by expanding our capabilities in the high-growth MCA sector, says Rubix UK CEO, Vince McGurk. The teams deep technical expertise and commitment to creating customer value reflects our approach perfectly and I am looking forward to working closely with them on the immediate opportunities this will create.

The Rubix Group is Europes largest supplier of industrial MRO (maintenance, repair and overhaul) products and services. It was created from the merger of IPH with Brammer in 2017, following the acquisition of Brammer by Advent International. It has 8,500 employees operating from more than 750 locations in 22 countries, serving more than 20,000 customers. The business had sales worth 2.6bn in 2021.

Rubix UK: Twitter

Gapp Automation: LinkedIn
Our County Editor

Dave Hinton is editor of The News-Gazette's Our County section and former editor of the Rantoul Press. He can be reached at dhinton@news-gazette.com.
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a serious blood disorder affecting millions of people, primarily those of African descent. A mutation in the gene that encodes a subunit of the oxygen-carrying molecule, hemoglobin, causes the disease. Scientists at St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital and the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard showed a precise genome editing approach, prime editing, can change mutated hemoglobin genes back to their normal form in SCD patient cells, which restores normal blood parameters after transplantation into mice. The findings were published today in Nature Biomedical Engineering.

Scientists have rapidly developed technologies to edit DNA, including Cas9 nucleases and base editors, to treat genetic diseases. The studys researchers demonstrated how a third-generation programmable gene editing technology called prime editing could convert the mutation that causes SCD into the normal DNA sequence, thereby rescuing the disease.

Prime editing is a promising approach because, in theory, we can directly correct disease mutations to specific healthy DNA sequences of our choosing, said co-corresponding author Jonathan Yen, Ph.D., St. Jude Department of Hematology. We optimized prime editing in long-term blood stem cells and showed that the prime editing cells maintain full engraftment efficiency in an animal with a clinically relevant system.

These results show efficient prime editing of blood stem cells and that the prime-edited cells maintain their full ability to engraft and repopulate the bone marrow of an animal, said senior and co-corresponding author David Liu, Ph.D., Richard Merkin, Professor at Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, whose lab invented prime editing in 2019. Bringing the search-and-replace versatility of prime editing to blood stem cells raises the possibility of applying this technology to treat a wide range of diseases involving blood cells.

Fixing the mutation that causes sickle cell disease

The researchers showed that the prime editing system could find the disease-causing mutation in the adult hemoglobin gene with high specificity and replace it efficiently with the healthy DNA sequence variant carried by most humans. Prime editing successfully corrected this mutation with up to 41% conversion in blood stem cells from SCD patients. Previous research has shown that editing over 20% of cells likely translates to therapeutic benefit.

Adding to the approachs therapeutic promise is the observation that when the researchers transplanted prime-edited cells from four SCD patients into mice, normal hemoglobin production was present in about 45% of circulating red blood cells, even up to 17 weeks later. After the transplant, when placed in low-oxygen environments, the red blood cells isolated from the mouse bone marrow reduced sickling by half, from about 67% to 37%.
A University of South Australia nursing lecturer has used her own COVID-19 experience to inform research into a little-known side effect of the virus  sudden deafness.

UniSA nursing lecturer Kim Gibson, who developed sudden hearing loss from COVID-19. Image Credit: University of South Australia

Kim Gibson, a registered nurse with a clinical background in neonatal intensive care, has documented her experience with sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) five weeks after testing positive to COVID-19. She was fully vaccinated.

Her findings and recommendations are published in the latest edition of the British Medical Journal Case Reports.

Gibson developed acute hearing loss in one ear, along with vertigo and tinnitus several weeks after experiencing a mild COVID-19 infection in 2022.

She was referred to an otolaryngologist who confirmed sensorineural hearing loss, a little known and poorly understood side effect of COVID-19 that is not listed as a common symptom on most websites, or by GPs.

A course of oral prednisolone and betahistine was prescribed, and Gibsons hearing slowly improved over subsequent months, although she continues to experience intermittent tinnitus.

The evidence around the short and long-term impacts of COVID-19 and vaccines is still emerging and the aim of this paper is to highlight the lesser-known side effects of the virus, Gibson says.

We believe that clinicians should include sudden hearing loss as a potential side effect of COVID-19 when talking to patients. High-dose corticosteroids are a recommended first line of treatment for SSNHL and it is important that GPs promptly refer patients to specialists as soon as symptoms develop.

Hearing loss and associated symptoms can have a significant impact on a persons quality of life  they did in my case  and are closely related with anxiety and depression.

Gibson said that despite working in health education, she was not aware of COVID-19 causing hearing loss.

This was a shocking experience for me that had a significant impact on my quality of life for several months as I had never had any problems with hearing before; not even an ear infection.

I was unable to drive a car while experiencing severe vertigo. I needed to reduce my workload, negotiate flexible working hours with my employers and take a leave of absence from study. This was all due to a mild COVID-19 infection.

I was worried that the hearing loss would be permanent and that I would need a hearing aid. I now feel very nervous about a second COVID-19 infection. What if I experience this again, or even worse?

According to the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, sudden sensorineural hearing loss  also known as sudden deafness  occurs when you lose your hearing very quickly, typically only in one ear. It can happen instantly or over a span of several days. People can experience mild hearing impairment or total loss of hearing and it may be temporary or permanent.

Previous studies have linked SSNHL with COVID-19, as well as a potential side effect of COVID vaccination, but the evidence is still limited, Gibson says.

My experience shows that even people who have a minor COVID-19 infection could be at risk of potentially permanent and debilitating long-term effects. High quality, person-centered care is so critical. Kim Gibson, UniSA Nursing Lecturer
In a recent study posted to the bioRxiv* preprint server, researchers investigated host angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) tropism of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)-related coronaviruses (SC2r-CoVs) infecting Rhinolophus bats.

Study: Determination of the factors responsible for host tropism of SARS-CoV-2-related bat coronaviruses. Image Credit: MartinJanca/Shutterstock.com

*Important notice: bioRxiv publishes preliminary scientific reports that are not peer-reviewed and, therefore, should not be regarded as conclusive, guide clinical practice/health-related behavior, or treated as established information.

Background

Factors determining the host tropism of SC2r-CoVs, which partially depend on the tropism of host ACE2 genes usage, remain unknown.

Interactions between viral proteins and host receptors determine the host range of a virus. For instance, human influenza A viruses (IAVs) preferentially bind 2-3-linked sialic acid; conversely, avian IAVs bind 2-6-linked sialic acid.

Similarly, the variation in amino acid residues of the Niemann-Pick C1 protein, a host receptor, determines the host range of the Ebola virus.

Therefore, if the amino acid residues of the SC2r-CoV S proteins that determine its affinity to human ACE2 could be identified, it would be feasible to infer from the S gene sequence alone whether an SC2r-CoV could potentially transmit into humans.

About the study

In the present study, researchers endeavored to determine the phylogenetic relationship of SC2r-CoVs in Rhinolophus bats and pangolins. For structural analysis and cell culture experiments, they used HOS-TMPRSS2 cell lines expressing ACE2 receptors of eight Rhinolophus bat species, viz., R. affinis, R. cornutus, R. ferrumequinum, R. macrotis, R. pearsonii, R. pusillus, R. shameli, and R. sinicus.

They also synthesized the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1)-based pseudoviruses having the spike (S) glycoproteins of SC2r-CoVs, BANAL-20-236, and BANAL-20-52.

The team also assessed the amino acid polymorphisms in ACE2 proteins that could be associated with susceptibility to viral sequences of BANAL-20-236 and BANAL-20-52, B52 and B236. This helped them identify the genetic determinants of susceptibility to B52 and B236 infections in ACE2 proteins.

Next, the team calculated the relative infectivity score between B236 and B52, i.e., log10(B236 infectivity/B52 infectivity, for each ACE2. Finally, they evaluated the association between this score and amino acid polymorphism at each site in the ACE2 protein.

Additionally, the researchers prepared homology models of the ACE2 proteins of four Rhinolophus bats, R.cornutus, R. macrotis, R. pusillus, and R. sinicus, and constructed docking models with the S receptor binding domains (RBDs) of B236 and B52.

Finally, the team prepared two S protein derivatives of B236 and B52, which harbored the mutations at residue 493, namely B236 S K493Q and B52 S Q493K.

Study findings

The study findings pointed at differential ACE2 tropism in SC2r-CoVs infecting Laotian bat species, B236 and B52.

On the viral side, the amino acid residue positioned at 493 was the only residue in the SARS-CoV-2 S protein that could interact with human ACE2 and varied between B52 and B236 bat species.

It formed a salt bridge with the host ACE2 protein's amino acid residues at positions 31 and 35. Although eight amino acid sites showed susceptibility, residue 35 exhibited the strongest inclination to interact with SARS-CoV-2 S RBD, particularly with its four amino acid residues 30, 31, 35, and 79.

Some previous studies have shown that S gene mutations alter the host range of all SC2r-CoVs. For instance, the N501Y mutation in the S protein of the SARS-CoV-2's ancestral Wuhan-Hu-1 strain facilitated the Alpha and subsequent variants to use the murine ACE2 receptor for establishing infection.

The mutational pattern of the SARS-CoV-2 S residue 493 was exceptional. The authors noted that the S proteins of SARS-CoV-2 ancestral Wuhan-Hu-1 strain and early variants of concerns (VOCs), harbored Q493, while Omicron BA.1/BA.2 acquired mutations at position R493.

A study by Wang et al. demonstrated that the R493Q reversion mutation improved Omicron's affinity to human ACE2. In another study, the authors of this study showed that the R493Q reversion mutation helped evade Omicron BA.2-induced humoral immunity.

These findings suggested that there might be a correlation between the humoral immunity of Rhinolophus bats against SC2r-CoVs and the conversion susceptibility of residue 493 to promote immune evasion or vary affinity to the host ACE2 receptor.

Conclusions

Since Rhinolophus bats have highly diverse ACE2 genes, the tropism of SC2r-CoVs varies for them, which promotes them to infect other host species, including humans.

The researchers emphasized the need for monitoring all SC2r-CoVs in the wild with the zoonotic potential to spread in humans. In this regard, continuous monitoring of mutations in their S proteins that alter host ACE2 receptor usage would help estimate the entire host range of SC2r-CoVs of concern.

*Important notice: bioRxiv publishes preliminary scientific reports that are not peer-reviewed and, therefore, should not be regarded as conclusive, guide clinical practice/health-related behavior, or treated as established information.
An argument over garbage turned violent in Indore, with a man firing in the air and threatening to shoot sanitation workers. The altercation, which took place on Saturday, quickly escalated, with Mahesh Patel, a petrol pump owner, and his son, joining in the heated exchange. The incident, caught on video and now gone viral, shows Mr Patel brandishing a gun on the first floor of his home, while his son abuses and threatens the sanitation workers, reported NDTV. The workers were reportedly outside the mans house to collect garbage when the altercation began over the segregation of dry and wet waste.

The incident began when sanitation workers were outside Mr Patels home to collect garbage. An argument broke out between Mr Patels wife and the sanitation workers because dry and wet waste had not been segregated. Things quickly spiralled out of control as the businessman went inside his house and emerged on the first floor, brandishing a gun and threatening the sanitation workers who then fled the scene.

A video capturing the incident has gone viral, revealing Mr Patel pointing a gun at the sanitation workers and his son threatening to bury them alive. Police intervened and mediated between the two parties, but the issue did not conclude there. Drivers of garbage vans, along with the sanitation workers who were targeted, reported the incident to the police and lodged a written complaint. NDTV reported that the police were criticized for not taking any action in the matter.

In Indore, MP, a sanitation worker was threatened with a gun by a man named Mahesh Patel for objecting to the non-separation of dry and wet wastes.The sanitation workers are not here to clean the garbage in your mind. This abuser needs legal treatment.pic.twitter.com/vGqREXR5Ww  Mission Ambedkar (@MissionAmbedkar) April 17, 2023

The incident has sparked outrage on social media, with many calling for appropriate action against the businessman.

Senior police officer Ashish Mishra emphasised that they are looking into the matter and are trying to contact the complainants. We are looking into the matter to understand what exactly happened. We are trying to contact the complainant," he said.

In a similar incident, a minor altercation over a chair in a finance firm office in Gurugram escalated into a violent incident, resulting in one employee shooting another. The victim, identified as Vishal, a 23-year-old resident of Gurugram, had to be rushed to the hospital for treatment in critical condition. The accused, Aman Jangra, a native of Hisar in Haryana, was booked under Section 307 (attempt to murder) of the Indian Penal Code and Sections 25-54-59 of the Arms Act.

Read all the Latest Buzz News here
A woman in South China has expressed her disappointment on social media after she found out that the bags that were gifted to her by her boyfriend were all fake designer bags. She explained that her boyfriend brought her fake handbags, which she thought were real, and now he has been blaming her.

She also explained that earlier she thought her boyfriend was good for her as he brought her a lot of luxury designer bags. As there was no more space in the room to keep them, she decided to sell some to create space. She thought that these designer bags could easily be sold as they were real. However, when she decided to sell them, she discovered that all the bags gifted to her were counterfeit products.

After discovering the truth, she said that she was upset and confronted her boyfriend about the fake designer bags. However, her boyfriend responded with a counterargument, asking why she was selling the gifts he had given her.

The heartbroken woman revealed online, Its a good thing I put the bags up for sale; otherwise, I wouldnt have known that my boyfriend gave me fake bags. I was so happy to see him give me designer bags, but I had never thought it would turn out like this."

She later responded in the comments section of her post that it would have been better if he had gifted her something real and cheap rather than something fake.

Different people had different perspectives on the situation on social media. Some people said that it was really disheartening and unacceptable for the boyfriend to give fake products as gifts, and one of them said that if he is gifting fake bags, maybe his heart is fake too.

Another user said that the girl seemed happy as long as she was getting expensive bags, but now that she has realised that the bags were fake, she has become upset about it. He added that this clearly shows that the relationship was solely based on money.

Read all the Latest Buzz News here
An Austrian Airlines plane had to return two hours into a flight from Vienna to New York  after five of eight toilets broke down.

Some 300 people were on board Mondays Boeing 777 flight, which was to set to last eight hours.

The crew decided to turn around after finding the toilets could not be flushed properly due to a technical problem, a spokeswoman for the airline told AFP on Tuesday.

She said, to her knowledge, such a problem had not occurred on an Austrian Airlines flight before. The plane has already been fixed and is back in service, the spokeswoman added.

Affected passengers were rebooked on other flights.

Read all the Latest Buzz News here
With Earth Day on April 22 reminding us to take more effective actions to protect the natural resources that are so essential to our lives, a recent scientific study highlights the significant impact of food waste on the environment.

Back in July 2021, a study by WWF and Tesco revealed that 40% of the worlds food was wasted; now a comparative analysis conducted by researchers at Nanjing Forestry University in China, in conjunction with the National University of Singapore, is putting into stark relief the environmental disaster that this vast waste represents. One should keep in mind that the global food system is responsible for about one-third of total annual greenhouse gas emissions. In total, in 2017, scientists estimated that food waste generated 9.3 billion tons of CO2 (expressed in GtCO2e in the study published in the journal Nature Food). By comparison, this sum is almost equal to the combined total emissions of the United States and the European Union. And this is not without consequences for the planet: food waste is indeed responsible for half of the carbon emissions generated by the food industry.

By analyzing food supply data, this study provides new insights into the extent of the impact of food waste. It should be noted that in terms of supply, we are talking about harvesting as well as production, storage, transport, processing and sale. Scientists have taken into account data from the FAO  the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization  related to no less than 164 countries and regions, for the period between 2001 and 2017. In addition, the data of 54 food products corresponding to four major categories  cereals and pulses; meats and animal products; roots and oil plants; and fruits and vegetables  have been scrutinized. The findings show that when the data associated with China, India, the United States and Brazil are combined, these giants generate about 44% of the worlds supply-related emissions from food waste.

And its not grain, fruit or vegetable waste that is primarily responsible for CO2 emissions. Meat and animal products are responsible for 73.4% of global food supply waste emissions. Processing beef and lamb generates 13 times more carbon emissions than processing tomatoes.

The study wanted to look at the combination of food supply and waste management and the consequences to provide a broad, realistic view of the environmental impact of food waste. Once again, when China, the United States, India and Brazil are combined, these four countries generate 38% of global emissions linked to waste management.

The United Nations has set a goal of reducing food waste by half by 2030 as one of the Sustainable Development Goals.

Read all the Latest Buzz News here
Travelling by car has become so common that many of us hardly pay attention to how we sit in the vehicle. A viral video on Twitter shows the consequences of sitting with legs on the dashboard during an accident. The video is an eye-opener, demonstrating the importance of proper posture while travelling in a car. The video shows a dummy with its legs on the dashboard and what happens when an airbag deploys during a collision. The impact is intense, and the dummys legs are pushed back towards its head, causing it to bend backwards. This is a clear indication of the harm caused by sitting with legs on the dashboard while travelling in a car. The tweet along with the video read, This is what happens to a leg on the dashboard in a car accident.

It is essential to follow certain precautions while travelling in a car, such as ensuring the vehicles functionality, checking for overloading and other minor details, and most importantly, sitting with proper posture. This video serves as a reminder that taking things casually can result in severe injuries and even prove fatal during an accident.

This is what happens to a leg on the dashboard in a car accident. pic.twitter.com/3CofOGrqIO Interesting Videos (@moistonig) April 15, 2023

The video has gone viral, with many social media users sharing their thoughts on the importance of sitting with proper posture while travelling in a car. It is an eye-opener for those who dont take sitting posture seriously when in a car. A Twitter user wrote, Or your femur is being rammed into your pelvis, breaking both to bits.

Or your femur is being rammed into your pelvis, breaking both to bits. MsWeyrd (@TheWeyrd) April 15, 2023

You are absolutely correct, read another tweet.

You are absolutely correct.  Pramod kumar Dwibedi (@Pramodk40813271) April 17, 2023

Never understood why passengers ride that way, a user wrote.

I never understood why passengers ride that way. baileegirl (@baileegirl) April 15, 2023

This is not the only simulation trending on the Internet to spread awareness about road safety. A simulation video of a car crash has been making rounds on social media, and it is a clear reminder of the importance of following speed limits while driving. The video showcases the damage caused by a car when it collides with a pole at different speeds, ranging from 30 mph to a staggering 260 mph. The results are terrifying, with the cars damage increasing exponentially with each increment in speed.

At 30 mph, the cars front area is crumpled, but the damage is manageable. However, at 80 mph, the car is completely wrecked. At 120 mph, the situation turns worse, and the car becomes unrecognizable. When the collision takes place at 180 mph, the wheels of the vehicle fall off, leaving it totally wrecked. But the real shock comes when the car hits the pole at 200 mph and 260 mph. In both cases, the car turns into a ball of destruction, making it almost impossible for passengers to survive. The Twitter user who shared the video urged everyone to use it as a gentle yet scary reminder of why one must choose to drive safely.

It is so easy to get carried away by the new generation cars that one is tempted to drive at very high speeds on the increasingly good quality expressways in the country.But do look at this video that demonstrates the impact of high speed collision on these vehicles. #DriveSafe pic.twitter.com/nCakcWj7pF Rajesh Kalra (@rajeshkalra) February 24, 2023

The simulation video clearly demonstrates the impact of high-speed collisions on vehicles, and the message is clear - drive safe.

Read all the Latest Buzz News here
The results for the Class 10 and 12 board exams in 2023 will be released soon by the Uttar Pradesh Madhyamik Parishad (UPMSP). The board exams for classes 10 and 12 in Uttar Pradesh were held from February 16 to March 4. The results of the intermediate and high school board exams will likely be released by UPMSP on or before April 27. Students can check their scores at the boards official website, upmsp.edu.in, once they have been announced.

UP Board Result 2023 LIVE Updates

In order to pass the UP board exams in 2023, one must receive a score of at least 33 per cent. Those students who fail one or more subjects in the Uttar Pradesh Board exams must take compartment exams.

The class 10 and class 12 pass percentages for the UP board have gradually increased over the years, consistently surpassing the 85 per cent threshold.

Last years UP Board class 10 results showed an overall pass percentage of 88.18 per cent. In 2022, girls outperformed boys, with a pass percentage of 91.6 per cent compared to 85.25 per cent for boys. Gautam Budha Nagar outperformed all other districts in terms of pass percentage, with Etawah coming in second and Amethi coming in third.

UP Board class 10 results: Pass percentage over the years

2022 - 88.18%

2021 - 99.53%

2020 - 83%

2019 - 80.07%

The intermediate examination 2022 was taken by 22,37,578 candidates, with 19,90,249 of them passing. 85.33 per cent of students who took the class 12 board exam in 2022 successfully cleared it. This is a decrease from the pass percentage of 97.88 per cent in 2021, yet it is higher than that in pre-pandemic years. The pass rate for girls was yet again higher here, at 90.15 per cent, while the pass rate for boys was 81.21per cent. In 2021, boys passed the UP intermediate exam at a rate of 97.47 per cent, while girls passed at a rate of 98.4 per cent.

UP Board class 12 results: Pass percentage over the years

2022 - 85.33%

2021 - 97.88%

2020 - 83.31%

2019 - 80.07%

2018 - 72.43%

The evaluation process this year came to a close on March 31 and the students scores are currently being tabulated. For the evaluation of the 3.19 crore answer papers, UPMSP designated 1,43,933 expert examiners. The total number of answer sheets of students in classes 10 and 12 was around 1.86 and 1.33 crore, respectively.

The High School (Class 10) and Intermediate (Class 12) board exams collectively attracted more than 58 lakh student registrations this year. There were 31,16,487 students enrolled for the Class 10 exam and 27,69,258 students who registered for the Class 12 exam in 2023.

To know about more upcoming board exam result 2023 dates, click here.

Read all the Latest Education News here
Startups and businesses had to make many adjustments as the world shifted from the COVID-19 pandemic to living with it as an endemic.

The physical restrictions during the pandemic catalysed the digital capabilities across the board, at this point everyone is familiar with hybrid work, and phygital is the new baseline expectation.

A report by the World Tourism Organization shows a revival in the travel industry, reaching close to pre-pandemic numbers in 2023. The end of the travel hiatus resets the board, giving startups that are well prepared to expand overseas good opportunities, and South Korea is a prime location to consider.

South Koreas tourism and startup landscape

The South Korean government announced plans to improve tourism which include a US $382.9 million fund to improve the countrys MICE capabilities, build more attractions, and facilitate easier entry to attract 30 million visitors by 2027.

This effort is bolstered by the Korean governments commitment to establishing the country as a startup powerhouse over the years. A report shows that early-stage startup funding between 2019 to 2021 in South Korea was at US $2.3 billion compared to US $687 for the global average, and successful startups in South Korea took around 8 years to exit in comparison to 9.4 years for the global average in 2023.

The country has been named the 10th best city for startups and is a hub for startup unicorns, with 22 unicorns under its belt in 2022.

Startup homework before heading overseas

Regardless of the stage, or success of your startup, the process of moving to another market can be a tricky one. Before deciding on a destination, it pays to research the industries that the country is known for, as well as the presence of other startups or businesses similar to yours.

In South Korea, the beauty sector has seen a huge boost from the K-Beauty wave largely driven by the growing popularity of K-Drama and K-Pop, worth over US $6 billion with projections to exceed US $20 billion by 2026.

The Web3 space is also heating up, with the Korean government setting aside nearly US $200 million as part of its Digital New Deal in 2022 to develop its metaverse industry. This has spawned developments such as Metaverse Seoul  a virtual replica of Seoul on the Metaverse that can be explored and fully interacted with.

Market research aside, understanding the nuances of the country and culture can inform your decision if the place is a good fit to work and live in.

Research has shown that the failure rate of startups is 90%. 21.5% of startups fail in the first year, 30% in the second year, and 50% in the fifth year. Finding a good accelerator program can mitigate the variables added by being away from home ground and shift the odds in your favour.

A good accelerator is an ideal gateway to new territories

That being said, not all accelerator programs are built equally, or would they be an ideal fit for your startup. Here are some considerations to help you find the right program for you.

Track record of the program

How long has the program been around, and what have they achieved? Getting in touch with startups involved in the program from previous batches can give you insight into the experience.

Scope of the program  general or focused

Some accelerator programs are general and cast a wider net for the startups they accept. Others might focus on certain industries or specific challenges within those industries. There are pros and cons for both.

Accelerator programs that accept a wider range of startups allow for the cross-pollination of ideas and provide exposure to different industries and models. In our experience, we have seen some startups collaborate in creative ways thanks to this exposure. In the same vein, we have seen startups floundering in the early parts of the program turn things around by making pivots from the interaction with their peers and perspectives outside of their industry.

Industry-specific programs have a clear focus on what they want to accomplish and have a higher barrier of entry for applicants. Startups at a later stage of their business benefit more from these programs. Pivoting is possible, though we tend to see less drastic changes in comparison to the general accelerators.

Support and logistics

Joining an accelerator program would require upwards of 3 months of time and intensity. Doing it overseas adds a degree of complexity. When youve decided on a program, it helps to know the degree of support given to overseas applicants before committing.

What financial aid or stipends would you have for the duration of the program for living expenses?

Would there be assistance for travel arrangements such as Visa applications that they can help you with?

Is lodging provided, and would you have assistance with living arrangements?

Facilities and workspaces  What access would you have, and are there conducive workspaces for your startup?

People and networking  Who are the mentors and business developers in your program, and what are the networking and investment opportunities?

Looking before taking the plunge

With the re-introduction of physical and offline touchpoints to our work and lives in the new normal, there are renewed opportunities for startups aiming beyond their domestic market. South Korea has a good startup ecosystem, with support from many different programs and investors. For startups that are prepared and committed, South Korea can be the catalyst for successful international expansion.
Ahead of the Karnataka elections, Rahul Gandhi has demanded a caste census after deliberations with other supporters of the move like Nitish Kumar and Tejashwi Yadav. The Congress had been against such a study for nearly 60 years till doing one in 2011. In Karnataka, former chief minister Siddaramaiah till 2018 did not release a caste census report despite commissioning one.

The 2011 survey was done after deep divisions emerged in the UPA cabinet with several senior ministers like P Chidambaram, Anand Sharma, and Pawan Kumar Bansal as well as senior Congress MPs objecting to a caste census and a group of ministers (GoM) never reaching a conclusion over it. But the UPA government finally succumbed to its regional allies, overturning its stated policy position of decades of not doing a caste census. It took five years to complete the survey at a cost of over Rs 4,000 crore but it was riddled with technical flaws and never became public. Rahul Gandhi now wants this 2011 caste census to be made public.

The demand was made by the former Congress chief in poll-bound Karnataka where former CM Siddaramaiah had also kicked off a caste census in 2015 in his earlier term as chief minister but never released the data before the 2018 assembly elections that year, sensing it would be counterproductive to his partys chances. Siddaramamiah now claims the caste census exercise was only completed later in the Congress-JD(S) government but then CM Kumaraswamy did not accept the report.

Siddaramaiah has been demanding the caste census done under his government in Karnataka be made public but the Congress objects to the 4% Muslim reservation quota being distributed among the Lingyats and Vokkaligas in the state by the BJP.

Between 1951 and 2011, Congress prime ministers like Jawaharlal Nehru were against a caste census while PMs like Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi had put the Mandal Commission report on the back burner. When a caste census was finally started in 2011, there was a gross delay in starting the enumeration work and slow preparedness of many states.

The BJP government did not release the caste data once it was ready in 2016, citing technical flaws in it.

BJP leaders say Rahul Gandhis demand originates from Hindi heartland allies like the RJD, JD(U), and also the Samajwadi Party, which have been demanding a caste census in a bid to break the Hindu consolidation of voters and bring back the Mandal politics era by wooing castes back into their fold. The BJPs politics has been the opposite of that, combining all castes under one umbrella of welfarism through various schemes, and Hindutva.

A recent meeting between Rahul Gandhi, Nitish Kumar, and Tejashwi Yadav in Delhi seems to have made the Congress also warm up to the caste census bogey. Nitish, while with the NDA last year, led a Bihar all-party delegation to the Prime Minister demanding a caste census, but the Centre had not agreed to it.

Read all the Latest Politics News here
SAD-BSP candidate Sukhwinder Kumar Sukhi, BJPs Inder Iqbal Singh Atwal and Shiromani Akali Dal (Amritsar) nominee Gurjant Singh filed their nomination papers on Tuesday for the May 10 Jalandhar Lok Sabha bypoll.

The last date for filing nomination papers is April 20.

The bypoll was necessitated due to the death of Congress MP Santokh Singh Chaudhary in January.

Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD)Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) candidate Sukhi appealed to the electorate to teach a befitting lesson to the parties which were practising divisive politics and asserted the SAD-BSP alliance could alone effect real change in the state.

At the time of filing nomination papers, SAD leader Daljit Singh Cheema and BSP state president Jasbir Singh Garhi accompanied Sukhi.

Sukhi said Jalandhar had suffered during both the earlier Congress and present AAP regimes.

Both governments have failed to take advantage of central schemes and convert the district hospital into a medical college. The civic infrastructure is at its worst," he said.

Sukhi, who is a two-time MLA from Banga, also took on the AAP government for not keeping its poll promise of giving Rs 1,000 per month to women.

BJP nominee Inder Iqbal Singh Atwal also filed his nomination papers in Jalandhar. Atwal, who recently joined the BJP after quitting the SAD, was accompanied by Punjab BJP chief Ashwani Sharma, Union Minister Som Parkash and Shiromani Akali Dal (Sanyukt) leader Parminder Singh Dhindsa.

Later, addressing a gathering, Punjab BJP chief Ashwani Sharma alleged that the AAP government has completely failed in the state as he targeted the Bhagwant Mann dispensation over the law and order issue.

There is an atmosphere of fear in Punjab. Nobody, be it trader, industrialist, social activist or politician, is feeling safe," he alleged as he referred to the Amritsar incident in which BJP leader Balwinder Gill was shot at by an unidentified assailant on April 16.

Punjab wants peace and harmony, he asserted.

Referring to the excise policy case of Delhi, Sharma said on one side the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) says it is against corruption but when action is taken in Delhi, they call it political vendetta.

Delhi Chief Minister and AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal was summoned by the CBI in the excise policy case on April 16.

Sharma further said that it was only Prime Minister Narendra Modi who could put Punjab on the path of progress.

The BJP leader sought votes for the BJP candidate in the Jalandhar bypoll.

Meanwhile, Punjab Congress chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring campaigned for the party candidate Karamjit Kaur Chaudhary in various parts of Jalandhar.

He appealed to voters to give a befitting reply to the ruling dispensation for deceiving the people of Punjab with its false promises and burdening the state exchequer by wasting taxpayers money for self-promotion.

The polling for the Jalandhar parliamentary seat will take place on May 10 and the counting will be held on May 13.

Read all the Latest News here
WhatsApp is one of the easiest modes of communication with the masses and hence acts as a tool for political campaigning. With barely a few weeks before the Assembly Elections in Karnataka, the Election Commission has decided to crack down on political parties campaigning by monitoring the messaging application. EC will take legal action against troll pages and WhatsApp group admins campaigning on behalf of candidates of various parties.

The Election Commission is currently monitoring political advertisements on social media and also fake news. Political advertisements will require pre-certification from the Media Certification and Monitoring Committees (MCMCs) at the district and state levels. Model Code of Conduct will also be applied to the content that is being posted on social media by candidates and political parties. Any violation will lead to action taken by the Election Commission.

Reportedly, officials of the Election Commission have said that actions will be taken directly against the WhatsApp group admin if there is polling and influencing messages in favour of any candidate of a political party.

As per reports, the Election Officer, BBMP Zonal Commissioner Ravindra has informed that all social media including WhatsApp should be banned and the model code of conduct should not be violated, no matter what. Action will be taken by election authorities if the rules of the code of conduct are violated. The Election Commission has clearly stated that there should be no mention of personal abuse, caste, or religion in the messages coming on the WhatsApp app.

According to the Supreme Court orders, political parties and candidates who want to advertise should obtain prior permission. Meanwhile, for the elections, the commission has appointed Social Media Nodal Officers for escalation of any violations of the MCC or any other commissions provisions of the law, or court decisions regarding elections on social media platforms.

Hence, instead of an advertisement campaign, the Election Commission is keeping a watchful eye on WhatsApp. It is also monitoring the contesting candidates and political parties.

Karnataka goes to polls on May 10 and the results will be announced on May 13.

Read all the Latest News here
Karnataka is gearing up for its Assembly elections scheduled for May 10. Candidates of various political parties have been filing nominations and affidavits of their net worth. Meanwhile, Karnatakas Minister of Small Scale Industries and Municipal Administration N Nagaraj aka MTB Nagaraj has grabbed the headlines because of the massive wealth he declared. He announced his candidature from the Hosakote Assembly seat in Bengaluru on Monday. He disclosed assets totalling Rs 1,609 crore, which showed that his wealth has increased by Rs 390 crore from 2020.

Several candidates have assets worth more than Rs 50 crore. While former chief minister HD Kumaraswamys assets are worth more than Rs 181 crore, and the assets of his actor son Nikhil Kumaraswamy are worth more than Rs 76 crore. Minister Munirathna Naidu, who is contesting from the Rajarajeshwari Nagar constituency, has declared assets worth Rs 293 crore.

However, it is reported that Nagaraj is a farmer and a businessman, whereas his wife, M Shantakumar, is a homemaker. He declared that the value of his movable assets is Rs 536 crore, while his immovable assets are worth Rs 1073 crore.

When he submitted his nomination for the Vidhan Parishad elections in 2020, he and his wife together listed assets totalling Rs 1,220 crore. This indicates that his net worth increased by about Rs 390 crore during the last three years. He has stated that he has a liability of Rs 98 crores. MTB Nagaraj declared that his source of income is agriculture, his paternal estate and business.

In his election declarations, MTB Nagaraj claims to have Rs 64,89,302 in cash and his wife has Rs 34,29,445 in cash. They have fixed deposits worth Rs 33,08,01,765 and in savings accounts have Rs 20,12,31,011. His wife owns fixed deposits totalling Rs 19,95,000 and Rs 6,16,47,987.

In 2018, MTB Nagaraj won the Karnataka Assembly Elections from the Hosakote seat. He quit Congress the very next year. Later, he lost to an independent candidate, Sharath Gowda in the by-polls. Nagaraj joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2020. This time, the two will be contesting against each other yet again.

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The holy month of Ramadan is currently underway. During these days, the fast starts with a sehri in the morning and ends with an iftar in the evening. According to Islamic belief, sehri is the meal eaten in the morning before commencing the fast. Recently, a video of actress-dancer Rakhi Sawant doing her sehri at an airport is doing the rounds.

Rakhi Sawant is known as the drama queen of Bollywood. She always does something or another that makes headlines. From her personal to her professional life, whatever she does always becomes a point of discussion and is captured by the paparazzi. We get to see a different side of her, now and then.

In a video that has surfaced on social media, Rakhi Sawant is seen eating idli-sambhar in a restaurant at the airport. She revealed that she was doing her sehri. Rakhi asks for an idli and a vada from the shopkeeper. After this, the shopkeeper asks for Rs 600; upon hearing this, Rakhi loses her cool and said, How can he charge Rs 600 for a vada and idli? Has he lost his mind?

In the clip, Rakhi was also seen performing a dua before taking the sehri at the airport. After seeing the video, people had a mixed reaction. Some of them said that it was good that she was learning everything so quickly, while others corrected her and said that prayers should be read after eating. One user wrote that she was doing the dua the wrong way. Another wrote that her behaviour is becoming too gimmicky now.

Rakhi Sawant has recently been in controversy because of her husband, Adil Khan. After marrying Adil Khan, Rakhi converted to Islam and changed her name to Fatima. Due to this, she has been keeping a fast-during Ramadan. Her marriage with Adil, however, is not at a good place at all. Adil has been sent to custody after Rakhi had accused him of domestic violence. She also accused Adil of cheating her. Last month, when Rakhi was papped at the Mumbai airport during her return from Dubai, she said in front of the paps that she would never forgive Adil, but she wishes that he gets bail soon.

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Actor Chiyaan Vikram turned 57 yesterday. He is one of the most well-known actors in the Tamil film industry and has a sizable fan base. He has won numerous accolades including the National Award for Best Actor. He is often referred to as the Kamal Haasan of the next generation. If we go back 15 years, he was insignificant. He managed to be in the industry by playing supporting roles in movies starring famous names. Vikrams film had poor box-office performance. His story serves as a great example for struggling actors, demonstrating that skill, effort and perseverance can help anyone succeed. Lets take a look at some of the lesser-known facts about Chiyaan Vikram.

After making his acting debut in En Kadhal Kanmani in 1990, Vikram went on to star in a number of low-budget Tamil, Malayalam, and Telugu movies throughout the 1990s, most of which went unnoticed.

Vikram has advocated for a number of social causes and made an appearance in 2011 as the Youth Envoy for the UN Human Settlements Programme. Following the 2015 South Indian floods, he produced and directed a music video for the flood relief anthem Spirit of Chennai as a homage to the citys volunteers.

Vikrams father too pursued a career in film but was only able to land supporting roles in Tamil movies and television series. This reportedly motivated Vikram to make his fathers unfulfilled dream come true. Vikram enrolled in acting classes and received professional training in classical and cinematic dance styles, in order to guarantee his success as a leading actor.

In the history of Tamil cinema, Vikram is the third actor to win a National Film Award for Best Actor. He has received five Best Actor Filmfare Awards South and one National Film Award.

Mani Ratnamsfilm Raavan, a modern retelling of the Ramayana, in which Vikram played the antagonist, served as Vikrams Bollywood debut.

Chiyaan Vikram will be next seen in the magnum opus Ponniyin Selvan 2. The long-awaited teaser of the film has finally been released and fans are loving it.

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Bollywood actress Sherlyn Chopra registered a molestation case against a Mumbai-based financier at Juhu Police Station on April 14 and claimed that the accused also threatened to kill her. According to the Red Swastik actress, her complaint mentioned that the financier tricked her into thinking that he wants to feature her in a music video and was also ready to give money to Sherlyn for the same. Recounting what happened, Sherlyn revealed after she returned from Dubai to Mumbai on April 12, her manager informed her that an investor had expressed his desire to meet Sherlyn as he was eager to feature her in a music video.

The actress agreed to be a part of the video and the song was recorded successfully in the evening, ahead of which Sherlyns manager took her to meet the investor at a hotel. Sherlyn shared that the name of the investor was Sunil Parasmani Lodha. Upon meeting the B-town actress, he claimed himself to be a huge admirer of Sherlyn.

The investor opened up about wanting to invest money in songs featuring the actress and presumably, to prove his eagerness, paid a sum of money to Sherlyns manager on the spot itself. This raised doubt in Sherlyns mind who opined that it was impossible to record a music video with the amount that the financier had paid.

Sherlyn shared that he advised Sunil that for a good music video, an amount of at least Rs 15 to 20 lakh is required. Surprisingly, he agreed to pay the said amount as well. After the meeting, Sherlyn decided to give Sunil a lift in her car as the latter did not bring one. But when the driver reached Sherlyns residence, Sunil wished to see her house. This time too the actress welcomed him to her house and prepared dinner.

But what followed, stunned Sherlyn. After dining together, both the actress and the financier engaged in a small conversation, during which Sunil tried to molest her, trying to touch her inappropriately. Although Sherlyn shared that she opposed Sunils advances repeatedly, the investor cited that he was unable to restrict himself as he was so smitten by her. Thats when the actress complained the molester.

The Mumbai Police have assured Sherlyn that their investigation is underway. Case registered against the accused under sections 354, 506, 509 of IPC, they said.

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Actor-comedian Krushna Abhishek confirmed that Kapil Sharmas team had approached him, offering him to make a comeback on The Kapil Sharma Show. Krushna, who has been long associated with the show, exited the show because of contractual issues. But Kapils team is seemingly interested in bringing him back on sets but it all boils down to money.

Speaking with the Bombay Times, Krushna said, Yes, I received a call from the makers of TKSS recently. They wanted me back. However, we couldnt reach a conclusion owing to monetary and contractual differences for the second time. Baat paise par hi aakar atki hai phir se." It wont happen this season. Hopefully, I will return in the next season. Kapil and Krushna together again will be a treat for the audience, wont it?" he added.

The actor confessed he misses being a part of the show. When asked about rumours about Kapils insecurity paving the way to talents exits from the show, the actor defended the comedy star. Kapil is often subjected to baseless rumours. If he had not wanted me to shine, I would not have lasted on the show for four years. Many celebrities have complimented me on my act. He could have easily edited the portions if he had any issues with me. He doesnt bother about these things and is an extremely secure artiste. He knows that when one performer shines, it benefits the entire show. Ultimately, it is teamwork."

Krushna quit The Kapil Sharma Show in August last year. The actor was seen playing numerous characters on the show, including Jackie Dada, Dharmendra, and Sapna. After quitting TKSS, Krushna Abhishek officially signed a gig with Bigg Boss 16. The actor-comedian was playing the host of a special show under the umbrella of the Salman Khan-hosted show. This was Krushnas first television project since he quit The Kapil Sharma Show.

Read all the Latest Bollywood News and Regional Cinema News here
The district of South Dinajpur straddles the border between India and Bangladesh, with Hili, an ancient town on the banks of the Yamuna River, at its heart. The famed Trimahini regions Dapat (Power) Kali Puja and the accompanying fair have long been a gathering point for people of all communities.

The annual celebration begins on Chaitra Sankranti, as devotees worship Goddess Dapat Kali with fervent devotion for three days. Crowds of worshippers, some numbering in the thousands, attend this age-old fair, which has been held in the region for hundreds of years according to local lore.

Some historical information was uncovered during the temples establishment, revealing the goddesss awe-inspiring miracles.

The ancient Sri Sri Dapat Kali Mata Temple in Hili Block hosts the annual puja on Chitra Sankranti Tithi. Mangal Ghat is established nine days before the annual puja, with a complete nine-day worship schedule.

Around 5,000 devotees gather for the puja, with lakhs visiting the temple during the event. Additionally, a three-day fair takes place.

The annual puja begins at dawn, following tradition. Step by step, the worship of ten temples, including Shiva, Basali, Sheetala, Mansa, and Lakshmi-Narayan, is completed.

Women flock to the temple from early morning, with a goat sacrifice taking place at noon. Lakhs of devotees gather on the temple grounds for the puja and fair.

Debdulal Mondal, a member of the Puja committee, said, After two years of Covid-19, this year has seen the maximum crowd. But we have arranged everything perfectly.

We have followed all the rules of the Puja since the beginning. People from far and wide gathered together to fulfill their wishes. Usually, we have permission for the fair to last three days. This year, sales have also been good at the fair."

Legend has it that the goddess is often seen walking with an anklet in the temple grounds, among other miracles. Both Hindu and Muslim communities in the region come together to rejoice on the occasion of the fair.

Prasad, a religious offering, is distributed along with the worship of the goddess. The fair features a variety of shops, from food vendors to stalls selling an array of items.

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External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar hit out at Congress leader Siddaramaiah for politicising the issue of Karnataka people who are stranded in Sudan amid the rising hostility between the military and paramilitary forces of the government.

Simply appalled at your tweet! There are lives at stake; dont do politics. Since the fighting started on April 14th, the Embassy of India in Khartoum has been continuously in touch with most Indian Nationals and PIOs in Sudan," the EAM said in a tweet.

Simply appalled at your tweet! There are lives at stake; dont do politics.Since the fighting started on April 14th, the Embassy of India in Khartoum has been continuously in touch with most Indian Nationals and PIOs in Sudan. https://t.co/MawnIwStQp  Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) April 18, 2023

The former Karnataka CM requested the Center to immediately intervene and ensure their safe return.

It is reported that 31 people from Karnataka belonging to Hakki Pikki tribe, are stranded in Sudan which is troubled by civil war.I urge @PMOIndia @narendramodi, @HMOIndia, @MEAIndia and @BSBommai to immediately intervene & ensure their safe return.  Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) April 18, 2023

The Congress leader said the BJP government should immediately open diplomatic discussions and reach out to international agencies to ensure the well-being of Hakki Pikkis.

Reacting to Jaishankars tweet, Siddaramaiah said if the EAM is busy getting appalled", please point him to the person who can help us bring our people back.

Since you are the External Affairs Minister @DrSJaishankar I have appealed you for help. If you are busy getting appalled please point us to the person who can help us bring our people back. https://t.co/B21Lndvxit  Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) April 18, 2023

ALSO READ: Running Out Of Water and: Ktaka Tribals in Sudan Wonder If Theyll Ever Reach Home

As many as 31 people belonging to Hakki-Pikki tribal community from Karnataka are stranded in Sudan, where rival factions of the ruling military regime have been battling for control of the African nation.

Karnataka State Disaster Management Authority Commissioner Manoj Rajan said, We have got a message that a group of 31 people hailing from Karnataka are stranded in Sudan. We have informed the Ministry of External Affairs about it. The officer said his department has asked the group to follow the instructions of the Indian embassy in Sudan.

As of now, stranded people should stay wherever they are and not venture out.The MEA is seized of the matter and is working on it, Rajan said in a statement.

The Hakki Pikkis in Sudan were left stranded without food for the past few days and the government has not yet initiated action to bring them back, he alleged.

At least 185 people have been killed and over 1,800 wounded since the fighting erupted in Sudan.

The sudden outbreak of violence over the weekend between the nations two top generals, each backed by tens of thousands of heavily armed fighters, trapped millions of people in their homes or wherever they could find shelter, with supplies running low and several hospitals forced to shut down.

The two sides are using tanks, artillery and other heavy weapons in densely populated areas. Fighter jets swooped overhead and anti-aircraft fire lit up the skies as darkness fell.

(With PTI inputs)

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Vice President Kamala Harris met with Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema on her recent trip to Africa. The two leaders affirmed their commitment to advancing democracy in Zambia and globally, and the Vice President announced new democracy programs to promote anti-corruption, governance reforms, and financial transparency in Zambia.

"Zambia has indeed embarked on an ambitious democratic reform agenda under your leadership, Mr. President. And as I have said previously on this trip, democracy and good governance around the world is a priority for the United States, and we will always stand with those who are fighting for those principles. To that end, I am pleased to announce more than $16 million for new programs in Zambia, including a focus on anti-corruption and other reform efforts."

Vice President Harris said the United States is committed to driving more private sector investment to Zambia and to the continent to accelerate the innovation and entrepreneurship that is already underway:

"To strengthen business ties, I am pleased to announce that the United States and Zambia will sign a commercial development MOU  a memorandum of understanding  which will help to develop and implement commercial projects and increase the flow of goods and services between our nations."

The Vice President also affirmed the United States commitment to Zambias economic revitalization and welcomed President Hichilemas economic reform agenda. She assured President Hichilema that the United States considers the finalization of Zambias debt treatment a top priority:

"We will remain a strong partner to build long-term economic growth and boost investment in Zambia. And we will continue to advocate for speedy finalization of Zambias debt treatment and the restructuring  Our administration believes the international community needs to help countries such as Zambia regain their footing. So, I will reiterate a call that we have made now many times for all bilateral official creditors to provide a meaningful debt reduction for Zambia."

The two leaders further discussed cooperation at the United Nations and through the Southern African Development Community, including on insecurity in the region.

The United States looks forward to expanding its democratic, economic, and environmental ties with Zambia in the years to come.
The killing of gangster-turned-politician Atiq Ahmed and his brother Ashraf in full public view in the presence of a police escort has renewed concerns about the security cover of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Sources told News18 that the Chief Minister cancelled his public engagements on Sunday and Monday, and remained in Lucknow.

With a communal colour being given to Atiq Ahmeds murder, concerns are brewing over Yogi Adityanaths security detail particularly in view of Karnataka elections where he is in strong demand to campaign for the ruling BJP. Sources told News18 that a National Security Guard (NSG) team has been sent to Karnataka to coordinate with the local police ahead of Yogi Adityanaths proposed visit. The UP CM is a Z+ protectee with NSG cover.

The security concern is similar to what the CRPF faced during Rahul Gandhis Bharat Jodo Yatra. But the incidents in UP have made the challenge bigger, an official from the Union Home Ministry, which oversees the NSG, told News18.

Under consideration reportedly is a proposal to increase the total number of men deployed in the inner cordon to secure Yogi Adityanath during public engagements. NSG provides the inner cordon and the state police takes care of perimeter security. Intelligence agencies are also closely tracking and coordinating with police and central agencies, News18 has learnt.

Officials said the threat perception is particularly from the sleeper cadre of PFI. The Popular Front of India is a banned organisation, but the National Investigation Agencys ongoing probe has revealed that Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu are the cadre base of the PFI.

The threat to the protectee could be more during road shows," a security grid officer said. A draft SOP to regulate security during road shows in elections is also being considered by the MHA, officials said.

The Chief Ministers Office, meanwhile, denied any increase in the CMs security. This is to bring to your kind notice that there is no change in the daily program of honble CM and honble Dy CMs. It is also to be brought into your notice that news of increase in security of CM is not correct, the statement said.

Yogi Adityanath also addressed concerns over the law and order situation in UP. Speaking at the MoU signing at Textile Park in Lucknow on Tuesday, he assured investors and said: UP gives guarantee for your security as well as your investments. Today, there is no need to fear any name in any district."

Atiq Ahmed and his brother Ashraf were shot dead at point-blank range by three men posing as journalists in the middle of a media interaction on Saturday night while police personnel were escorting them to a medical college in Prayagraj for a check-up.

Just hours before the shooting, the last rites of Ahmeds son Asad, who along with one of his associates was gunned down in a police encounter in Jhansi on April 13, were held.

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The Supreme Court will be hearing a plea seeking a probe by an Independent Commission into the killings of mafia-turned-politician Atiq Ahmed and his brother Asrafs killing. The plea also seeks an independent probe into several encounters conducted by the UP police.

A top court bench, headed by CJI DY Chandrachud, has posted the matter for a hearing on April 24.

Gangsters Atiq Ahmed and his brother Ashraf Ahmed were buried at the Kasari-Masari graveyard in Prayagraj on Sunday.

The funeral was attended by their close relatives, and Atiqs two minor sons Ahjam and Aban were also present. Additionally, both daughters of Ashraf also attended the funeral.

In light of mafia-turned-politician Atiq Ahmed and his brother Khalid Azeem alias Ashrafs sensational murders in Prayagraj, all three accused in the murder, Arun Maurya, Sunny Singh, and Lavlesh Tiwari, were sent to 14-day judicial custody by a court in UP.

The brothers were shot dead at point-blank range by three men posing as journalists, even as media personnel and police were present. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath-led UP government has ordered a high-level probe into the killings. The chief minister has constituted a three-member judicial commission to probe the killing of Ahmad and Ashraf, Special DG, of Law and Order, Prashant Kumar told PTI.

The probe was ordered at a high-level meeting in Lucknow, called by CM Yogi right after the incident on Saturday night. The three assailants were arrested from the spot and a detailed probe is on in the matter.

Besides, the postmortem of Atiq and brother Ashrafs dead bodies took place on Sunday amid tight security. A panel of five doctors conducted the postmortem and the burial will likely take place at the Kasari Masari cemetery by late evening.

Read all the Latest India News here
Two days after the sensational murder of mafia don-turned-politician Atiq Ahmed and his brother Ashraf while under police escort, the UP cops are puzzled about the mystery link among the three assailants.

Deciphering this common link remains the key to the investigation.

Sources in the UP Police say Lovelesh Tiwari and Mohit alias Sunny Singh probably first met in 2021 as undertrials in Banda district jail.

Lovelesh was arrested under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offence (POCSO) Act while Mohit was jail under the Arms Act.

After getting out on bail around the end of 2021, both remained in touch and came to Prayagraj. Here they also took odd jobs to meet the ends.

So far, the information obtained from the three suggests Mohit was more into criminal activities and had access to illegal firearms.

Sources say the third assailant Arun Maurya was lodged in Panipat jail in Haryana for a petty crime. There is still no clarity when and for what purpose did he move to Prayagraj.

It is still unclear when and how Lovelesh and Mohit got in touch with Arun.

Was it a co-incidence that three came together?

The audacity and precision with which the murders were committed indicates a proper briefing and also required training on how to kill to perfection.

The fact that the small-time criminals get access to Turkish-made pistols, each costing around Rs 6 lakh a piece, raises serious questions.

Hand-to-mouth assailants can no way have the money to procure the pistols. The question is who provided them?

All these points have given top cops to believe about the mystery man or else the common link between the three.

A senior police officer not willing to be quoted said circumstances under which this crime was committed, the perfect intel which the assailants had and the brilliant script of posing as journalists, all indicate of a geniuss planning.

It is highly unlikely that the three small-time assailants had the level of sophistication and courage to commit such sensational murders.

Surely, the common link between the three or the missing handler acted as their facilitator, motivator and logistics provider.

The challenge before the UP Police is to identify this common link.

Even if the argument of these assailants wanting to be a big name in the world of crime is taken a note of, there surely needs to be a godfather to the three who gave wings to their misplaced ambitions.

Atiq and Ashraf were shot dead at point-blank range by three men posing as journalists in the middle of a media interaction on April 15 night while police personnel were escorting them to a medical college for a check-up.

The brothers, both jailed in Prayagraj, were in handcuffs when they were killed in full view of camera crews around 10 pm.

Read all the Latest India News here
The Centre and the Gujarat government are likely to file a plea seeking a review of the Supreme Courts order asking them to be ready with original files on the grant of remission to the convicts in the Bilkis Bano case.

Both governments told the Supreme Court that they may file a review petition.

A bench of Justices K M Joseph and B V Nagarathna questioned the paroles granted to 11 convicts during their incarceration period and said the gravity of the offence could have been considered by the state.

A pregnant woman was gang-raped and several people were killed. You cannot compare victims case with standard section 302 (murder) cases. Like you cannot compare apples with oranges, similarly massacre cannot be compared with single murder. Crimes are generally committed against society and the community. Unequals cannot be treated equally," the bench said.

The question is whether government applied its mind and what material formed the basis of its decision to grant remission," the bench said, adding, Today it is Bilkis but tomorrow it can be anyone. It may be you or me. If you do not show your reasons for grant of remission, then we will draw our own conclusions."

The bench posted the batch of pleas challenging the remission to the convicts in Bilkis Bano case for final disposal on May 2 and asked all the convicts who have not been served notices to file their replies.

It asked the Centre and the state to make its stand clear about filing of a review plea.

On March 27, terming Bilkis Banos gang-rape and the murder of her family members during the 2002 Godhra riots as a horrendous" act, the Supreme Court had asked the Gujarat government whether uniform standards, as followed in other cases of murder, were applied while granting remission to the 11 convicts in the case.

It had sought a response from the Centre, Gujarat government and others on a plea filed by Bilkis Bano, who was gang-raped and seven members of her family were killed during the 2002 post-Godhra riots.

Bano has challenged the remission of sentence of 11 convicts in the case. All 11 convicts were granted remission by the Gujarat government and released on August 15 last year.

The top court is seized of PILs filed by CPI(M) leader Subhashini Ali, Revati Laul, an independent journalist, Roop Rekha Verma, who is a former vice chancellor of the Lucknow University, and TMC MP Mahua Moitra against the release of the convicts.

Bano was 21 years old and five months pregnant when she was gang-raped while fleeing the riots that broke out after the Godhra train burning incident. Her three-year-old daughter was among the seven family members killed.

(With PTI inputs)

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Jet Airways founder Naresh Goyal has been denied permission to travel to Dubai for work. Goyal and his wife Anita Goyal have moved the Bombay High Court seeking cancellation of the Look Out Circular (LOC) issued against them for an alleged money laundering case as they have cooperated in the investigation of the matter.

The duo also sought the return of their passports and permission to travel abroad.

A bench of Justices Revati Mohite Dere and Sharmila Deshmukh approved Anita Goyals request, while it denied permission to Naresh Goyal.

The court has also asked Goyals lawyer to respond by afternoon whether Anita would be willing to go alone.

In February, giving a huge relief to the Goyal couple, the Bombay High Court quashed the Enforcement Directorate (ED)s case of money laundering against them.

The order by a division bench comprising Justices Revati Mohite-Dere and Prithviraj Chavan came in a plea filed by the couple seeking to quash the EDs ECIR lodged against them under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act.

The judges quashed the EDs ECIR (February 20, 2020), all the investigations and other proceedings or actions arising out of it on grounds that it was illegal and contrary to the law".

The ECIR followed an FIR registered by the MRA Marg Police in February 2020 on a criminal complaint filed by Akbar Travels claiming that it had suffered losses of Rs 46 crore after Jet Airways cancelled its flight operations from October 2018.

However, in March 2020, the Mumbai Police had concluded that there was no substance in the criminal complaint and the dispute seemed to be of civil nature.

The Goyals counsels, Senior Advocates Ravi Kadam and Aabad Ponda, submitted that there was no predicate offence as required for the central probe agency to investigate the ECIR.

The MRA Marg Police had already filed its closure report in the matter, and even the EDs protest plea with the Metropolitan Magistrate Court was rejected, and its order was confirmed by the high court and the Supreme Court, hence the ECIR should be quashed, the counsels argued.

Read all the Latest India News here
A Maoist was killed in a gun battle with security personnel in a forest in Chhattisgarhs Bijapur district on Tuesday, a police official said.

Two Maoists, one of them injured, were also apprehended following the encounter, he said.

The gunfight took place at around 8 am near Kachlawari village under Naimed police station limits, located about 400 km from state capital Raipur, when a team of the District Reserve Guard (DRG) was out on a search operation, Bijapur Superintendent of Police Anjneya Varshney told PTI.

Security personnel had launched the patrolling from Reddy camp acting on the inputs of presence of senior leaders of Bhairamgarh area committee of Maoists, he said.

After the exchange of fire stopped, the body of a male Maoist was recovered from the spot. Besides, two Maoists, one of them in injured condition, were rounded up, the official said.

The injured Maoist was being shifted to a hospital, he added.

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The Delhi government has rejected French Liqueur company Pernod Ricards application for renewal of its sales license in the national capital.

This comes as the company, which owns brands such as Royal Stag and Blenders Pride is ongoing investigations against it.

Reacting to this, Pernod Ricard India released a statement and said that it will challenge through a due process" the decision made by excise authorities.

The company sent an application for liquor renewal in September 2022, and it was rejected.

According to sources, the decision was taken due to the investigation of the French company violating Delhis excise policy, news agency PTI said.

Pernod Ricard India has been pursuing its license to operate in Delhi since the re-implementation of the former Excise Policy. It will continue to do so, and will challenge through a due process the recent decision by the excise authorities to deny Pernod Ricard India this operating license, as it is keen to restart supplies as soon as possible, a company spokesperson said.

India continues to be a growing market for the company, and its business in India is a strong success story" despite this situation in Delhi, the company said.

Ricard competes with the British multinational l alcoholic beverage company Diageo, which owns United Spirits Ltd here, and some other domestic manufacturers.

What are the allegations against Pernod Ricard India?

Pernod Ricard reportedly financially supported some of its Delhi retailers to stock more of its brands. The company provided bank guarantees to the suppliers to increase the stocks of its liquor brands in the capital.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) also arrested Pernod Ricards executive Benoy Babu in November 2022, in the now-scrapped Delhi excise policy-related money laundering case.

With agency inputs

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With summer almost here, the level of seawater is constantly receding in Tamil Nadus Rameswaram leaving fishermen in great distress. They are using bull carts and cattle to fetch fish from boats. The seawater from the coast recedes in the morning and is normal by the afternoon. While it has been a distress for the fishermen, the locals are also worried.

Speaking to News18 Tamil, Jerome, a fisherman from Rameswaram, explained why the water level of the sea has been constantly receding near the coastline. It is normal for the water level to be low in summer. Every 6 hours the ocean currents change. From the outside, it looks like a wave but the current in the sea runs like a river for 6 hours on the right side and for 6 hours on the left side, he added.

In summer, when the ocean currents depend on wind speed. This is usually a periodic occurrence. During the tsunami in 2004, the sea receded about 500 metres from the coastline, briefly exposing the submerged part of town before massive waves struck the coast causing damage and taking several lives along with it.

Most people in Rameshwaram are used to it. For the fishermen, they have to venture out into the sea irrespective of the situation to make a living.

One of the fishermen also stated that if the seawater rises to 6 feet to 7 feet, they go fishing without fear. People who are not aware of the sea are afraid of this, but fishermen arent, he added.

Read all the Latest India News here
At least four people died after a 3-storeyed rice mill collapsed in Haryanas Karnal on the intervening night of Monday and Tuesday. Besides, several workers are feared trapped. The incident occurred at a mill in Karnals Taraori. A few workers who slept at the mill are feared to be trapped under the rubble, reports said.

According to reports, nearly 160 laborers were sleeping in the building and an investigation will be done against the owner.

Two teams have been formed to investigate the mishap, including one from the NDRF (National Disaster Response Force) and the administration is in contact with them, said SP Shashank Sawan.

#WATCH | Haryana: Several rice mill workers feared being trapped under debris after a three-storeyed rice mill building collapsed in Karnal. Workers used to sleep inside the building. Fire brigade, police and ambulance have reached the spot. Rescue operations underway. pic.twitter.com/AFzN9HDPYw ANI (@ANI) April 18, 2023

Fire tenders rushed to the spot soon after the mishap and a rescue operation is underway. The police are questioning the owner of the mill.

Read all the Latest India News here
An IndiGo airline flight from Mumbai suffered a tail strike while landing in Nagpur recently. The incident took place on April 14 as flight 6E 203 was landing at Nagpur Airport, the airline said in a statement.

As per the airline, no injuries were reported in the incident, and the aircraft has been grounded at Nagpur for assessment and necessary repairs.

Flight 6E 203 from Mumbai had a tail strike while landing at Nagpur on 14th April. The aircraft was declared grounded at Nagpur airport for assessment and repairs. The incident is being investigated," IndiGo said in a statement.

Flight 6E 203 from Mumbai had a tail strike while landing at Nagpur on 14th April. The aircraft was declared grounded at Nagpur airport for assessment and repairs. The incident is being investigated: IndiGo pic.twitter.com/bcRj049dgs ANI (@ANI) April 18, 2023

A tail strike occurs when the tail or empennage of an aircraft hits the ground or any other stationary object during take-off or landing.

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This past year, the Peoples Republic of China, or PRC, and Hong Kong authorities have further criminalized dissent, undermining the human rights and fundamental freedoms of people in Hong Kong, according to the recently released Hong Kong Policy Act report.

The Hong Kong government has persisted in its enforcement of the National Security Law and wielded a sedition law to silence perceived critics  with more than 1,200 people reportedly detained for their political beliefs.

In the last year, PRC authorities continued to deny people in Hong Kong the ability to play a meaningful role in the citys governance, including for the first time permitting only one candidate to run for Hong Kong Chief Executive. Hong Kong authorities continued to use the National Security Law, imposed by Beijing on Hong Kong in June 2020, to further erode the rule of law in Hong Kong and the fundamental freedoms of people in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong authorities continued to arrest and prosecute people for peaceful political expression, including for posting and forwarding social media posts. Local authorities criminally charged people engaged in online political speech.

Authorities continued to undermine the rights of defendants in cases designated as involving national security, including by denying them bail and subjecting them to lengthy periods of pretrial detention; stripping them of the right to a trial by jury and requiring that their cases be overseen by a judge designated by the Beijing-endorsed Chief Executive.

Hong Kong and PRC authorities continued to target civil society groups, media companies, activists, journalists, political parties, labor unions, and other individuals and organizations that they accused of being connected to Hong Kongs prodemocracy movement or critical of the government. Authorities arrested then 90-year-old Cardinal Joseph Zen, the former Catholic Bishop of Hong Kong, and others on suspicion of collusion with foreign forces.

Hong Kong officials prosecuted editors and executives of now-closed media outlets Apple Daily and Stand News, including Apple Daily founder Jimmy Lai, for alleged national security-related offenses, and accused Stand News of sedition for publishing news articles related to pro-democracy politicians. Independent media outlets continued to close, citing Hong Kongs restrictive political environment.

Citing Hong Kongs declining rule of law, Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged PRC authorities to restore protected rights and freedoms to the people of Hong Kong, release those unjustly detained or imprisoned, and respect the rule of law and human rights in Hong Kong.
People usually take a step back whenever the thought of starting a business crosses their minds. Starting ones line of work is indeed a risky affair. Businesses come with the joy of profits but also the fear of losses. Thats why you should always invest your money in a business that you are passionate about. Those who love to cook can take the first step in launching their business through a tiffin service. Running a tiffin service usually requires little investment but if executed correctly, the profits are mostly in high numbers.

People often have to leave their homes for work. Staying in an unknown city, especially a metropolitan city, sometimes costs a fortune. Thats when these away-from-home people seek cost-effective and homemade food aka a tiffin service. Here are some tips to start your tiffin service.

Start with a small investment

As a businessperson, you will not require a huge kitchen to prepare food. Start with investing a considerable amount of money, that is Rs 8,000 to Rs 10,000. You can raise the investment as per your sale. Tiffin services work out best via word of mouth. So try to reach out to as many people as possible. If the masses like the quality and quantity of your food, your income will double in no time.

Marketing through social media

With social media by your side, it will become much easier to promote your tiffin service business. Not only women but men are too taking the step of launching this food service business. You can create a website, or upload pictures of the dishes available at your tiffin service, on Instagram and Facebook. With more and more people viewing your page they will reach out to you, and in turn, make you sell more tiffin boxes.

Hygiene is a must

Another important factor you need to remember before starting a tiffin service is maintaining hygiene. No customer will want to buy or consume food from you if you provide dishes in dirty tiffin boxes. Take special care about the ingredients you use to prepare the dishes and dont use stale vegetables as it is a major peeve among customers. Make sure your kitchen space, no matter how small, should be tidy and hygienic. To conclude, dont use poor-quality products as it will rapidly bring down your business.

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Ahead of the monsoon season in Mumbai, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has flagged 217 buildings as dangerous, and has issued eviction notices before they are demolished.

Every year, the civic body identifies buildings that are deemed unsafe before rainfall kicks in. In 2022, it had identified 489 buildings, more than twice of those this year.

Heres a list of unsafe structures identified by BMC

K West ward

Andheri, Juhu and Vile Parle West have the maximum number of unsafe buildings, categorised as C1. The number stands at 29 this year.

H West ward

This covers Bandra, Khar and Santacruz West and the unsafe buildings stand at 22 here.

K East ward

This covers Andheri and Jogeshwari East, and has 21 buildings.

R North (Dahisar)

This has one unsafe structure

C (Marine Lines)

This has two unsafe structures

B (Dongri)

Three unsafe buildings

A (Colaba, Fort and Churchgate)

Three unsafe buildings

Problems faced in evicting people

Despite the unsafety, the civic body faces protests from the people residing in these buildings.

According to Hindustan Times, occupants of 110 buildings have moved courts challenging the eviction notices of their buildings. Of the 29 unsafe structures in K West, the BMC has succeeded in vacating only eight buildings.

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Janu Khan regrets being a gravedigger when he was told to dig graves for gangster-turned-politician Atiq Ahmed and his brother Khalid Azeem aka Ashraf on April 16 at Kasari Masari Graveyard at Chakiya on the outskirts of Prayagraj.

On late Sunday night, the mafia brothers, who were shot by the three attackers- Lovelesh Tiwari, Sunny Singh and Arun Maurya  posing as journalists at point-blank range while they were speaking to reporters in Prayagraj, were buried amidst tight security at the graveyard near Chakiya locality where Atiq was brought up.

The low-profile funeral was carried out in the presence of Atiqs close relatives as his four sons including two minors couldnt make it to the graveyard following legal hassles. And his wife, Shaista Parveen, who is carrying a reward of Rs 50,000 on her head, was still at large.

Janu Khan, who is in his 30s, said its for the first time he regretted being a gravedigger. It was an uneasy feeling when I was told to dig Atiqs grave that measures 7 feet long and 4 feet wide whereas his brother Ashrafs was 7 feet long and 3.5 feet wide, says Khan.

He said it is perhaps for the first time in his almost 20 years profession he regretted his being a gravedigger. I never thought that the day would come when I would dig the grave of a dreaded gangster, who has killed many and destroyed thousands of families. The feeling was killing in itself as I never wanted to relate by name with such a dreaded gangster but due to my profession I couldnt avert the call, says Khan.

It was around 20 years ago that Khan, who had been working at the Kasari Masari Graveyard, decided to work at the graveyard as a gravedigger after he lost his father who too worked in the same graveyard. My father always used to say that kabr khodna sawab ka kaam hota hai (Its a good deed) and such good deeds are always rewarded by Allah, said Khan.

In his initial days as a gravedigger, Khan said he was told that he wont be a good gravedigger as he has short legs and hence he wont be able to stand on the open graves.

But I proved them wrong. In almost 20 years of profession, I worked passionately. I believe that it was my fathers words that kept me going all these years, he said.

But the feeling he experienced on Sunday while digging Atiqs grave was different. My father is no more now, but It was my mother who pacified me and made me understand that the dreaded gangster is now a nobody, he is just like any other among us. And if you wont do it, who else would? he said.

Khan says it took almost 10 hours to dig the two graves on a hot sunny day. Generally, it takes less time but since Ramzan is on and he was fasting, it took a little longer for them to dig the grave as they were taking rest at short intervals, said Khan.

Other than Khan, seven others, including Fauji, Saif, Talim, Pappu Palti and Javed were among the ones who prepared the graves of the mafia brothers. Other gravediggers too opined more or less the same.

Atiq was buried near his parents grave. Atiqs mother Usma and his father Feroz Ahmed too were buried in the same graveyard.

The bodies of Atiq and Ashraf were taken to the graveyard by the police in two separate ambulances. First, Atiq Ahmeds body was taken to the graveyard at around 6.30 pm after the post-mortem examination was completed at the mortuary in SRN hospital by a panel of doctors. At around 7 pm, another ambulance took Ashrafs body directly to the Kasari Masari Graveyard for the last rites. All the pre-burial rituals were carried out at the graveyard itself where the district officials had got two graves dug up adjacent to each other, just a few metres from the grave of Asad  son of Atiq Ahmed.

Three days ago, accused in the Umesh Pal murder, Asad, was killed in a police encounter on February 14 along with his close aide Ghulam in UPs Jhansi, was also buried in the same graveyard, near grave of his grandfather Feroz Ahmed.

Atiqs wife Shaista Parveen and Ashrafs wife Zainab Rubi did not attend the funeral. The two minor sons of Atiq lodged in Childrens Shelter Home (Rajrooppur) as well as his two eldest sons Umar (lodged in Lucknow Jail) and Ali (lodged in Naini Central Jail) could not attend it. All his sons were informed about his fathers murder on Sunday evening itself, the police confirmed. Around 100 people, including a dozen women and close relatives attended the funeral.

In the backdrop of the hustle and bustle at the low profile funeral, Khan got his remuneration  Rs 400. He says that day has etched in his memories forever, not because he dug Atiqs grave but because on the day he learnt a lesson that how big the person is, how dreaded the gangster is, ek din sabko mitti mein mil jana hai.

Read all the Latest India News here
In Todays Evening Digest, we bring you updates on gangster Atiq Ahmeds threat call leak, Supreme Courts hearing on same-sex marriage and other stories.

Atiq Ahmeds Threat Audio Emerges as UP Cops Prep for Mega Crackdown, Mukhtar Ansari on Radar | Full List

Even as gangster-turned-politician Ashraf Ahmed claimed that they cant conspire from jail, an undated audio of his brother has been going viral. Atiq Ahmed, who was lodged in Gujarats Sabarmati jail, can be heard threatening a Prayagraj property dealer. In the audio, Atiq can be heard threatening property dealer Zaid Khalid. READ MORE

Supreme Court Resumes Hearing Of Pleas Seeking Validation of Same-Sex Marriages

The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday began hearing arguments on a batch of petitions seeking legal validation of same-sex marriages in the country. The case is being heard by a five-judge Constitution bench comprising Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and Justices S K Kaul, S R Bhat, Hima Kohli and P S Narasimha. READ MORE

Hungary Passes Bill That Allows Locals to Report Same-Sex Families to Authorities

Lawmakers in Hungary passed a bill that allows citizens to report to authorities anonymously on same-sex couples who have been raising children. The bill was passed earlier this month allowing people to report those who contest the constitutionally recognized role of marriage and the family and those who contest childrens rights "to an identity appropriate to their sex at birth." READ MORE

Ileana DCruz Is Pregnant; Actress Is Expecting Her 1st Baby; Netizens Ask Who Is the Father?

Bollywood actress Ileana DCruz on Tuesday announced her pregnancy on social media. The actress is expecting her first baby. Ileana decided to keep the identity of her babys father a secret. READ MORE

Loyal Customer Brings 1984 Macintosh To Apples Store Launch In Mumbai

Apples first retail store is now open. CEO Tim Cook opened the door to the store in Bandra Kurla Complex in Mumbai on Tuesday morning. Pictures and videos from the grand launch have spread like wildfire on social media. In the middle of this, a picture of a loyal customer, who was spotted carrying the 1984 Macintosh, to the BKC store has cropped up on Twitter. READ MORE

Meet Dhingra Brothers: Who Bought Vijay Mallya Company And Made It Rs 56,000 Cr Business

Kuldeep Singh Dhingra and Gurbachan Singh Dhingra are the owners of Berger Paints, Indias leading paint company. Kuldeep Singh Dhingra is the chairman of Berger Paints while Gurbachan Singh Dhingra is the vice chairman of the company. READ MORE

Amazing to Bat with Jos bhai Want to Learn a Lot from Kumar Sangakkara: Yashasvi Jaiswal | Exclusive

Yashasvi Jaiswal, 21, continues to impress whenever he walks out to bat. May it be for Mumbai in the domestic circuit or Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL), the aggressive southpaw has the all-round game to excel in every format and had a brilliant domestic season for his state. READ MORE

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The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has now taken over the case of the national flag at the Indian high commission in London being pulled down during a protest by pro-Khalistan activists. The development comes nearly a month after the incident that took place on March 19.

The case was earlier registered with the Special Cell of the Delhi Police. The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) had earlier given a nod to transfer the case to NIA. An FIR in connection with the protest staged by pro-Khalistani activists, was registered at the Special Cell of Delhi Police.

The case was registered after the Home Ministry asked Delhi Police to take legal action, an IANS report said. It was filed under relevant sections of Indian Penal Code, Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act and an investigation has been initiated in the case.

The British Deputy High Commissioner was also summoned by the Centre, demanding an explanation over the complete absence of security during the protest. The British High Commissioner to India, Alex Ellis had described the incident as disgraceful" and totally unacceptable".

A tricolour flying atop the Indian High Commission in London was grabbed at by a group of protesters waving separatist Khalistani flags and chanting pro-Khalistani slogan on March 19, an ANI report said. The national flag was pulled down during the protest by pro-Khalistani elements.

The incident came against the backdrop of the police crackdown on Khalistan sympathiser Amritpal Singh and his aides. Singh, a self-styled radical preacher, has been on the run since the Punjab Police launched a massive crackdown on Saturday and arrested 78 members of his outfit, Waris Punjab De.

Videos of the incident had shown several protesters carrying the yellow and black Khalistan flag and calling for radical Sikh preacher and Khalistan sympathiser Amritpal Singh to be freed".

After the incident, the MEA had issued a statement asking for an explanation" for the complete absence of the British security that allowed these elements to enter the High Commission premises.

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President Droupadi Murmu arrived here on Tuesday on a four-day visit during which the Rashtrapati Niwas in Mashobra, one of the presidential retreats, will be opened for the public.

She landed at Kalyani Helipad at Chharabra and was accorded a guard of honour. The president was welcomed by Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Assembly Speaker Kuldeep Singh Pathania, Education Minister Roihit Thakur and other dignitaries.

During her stay here, Murmu will interact with trainees at the National Academy of Audit and Accounts and also grace the 26th Convocation of Himachal Pradesh University as chief guest on April 19.

She will host an at home ceremony on April 20 and the Rashtrapati Niwas would be opened to the public on the same day. She will also visit the Indian Institute of Advanced Study.

Elaborate security arrangements have been made for the presidents visit and plying of vehicles on Kennedy Chowk and Boileauganj has been prohibited on April 19.

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Imagine living without food and water in a conflict-struck country with no idea whether you will ever be able to make it back home. This nightmare is now the reality of 31 tribals from Karnataka stuck in Sudan where the rising hostility between the military and paramilitary forces of the government has left several migrants stranded.

Talking to the Indian Express, the migrants said that they could not step off the house for the last four-five days and are running out of food and water.

We are trapped inside a rented house with no access to food and drinking water facilities. Gunfire and shelling can be heard in the background. Nobody is responding to our problem and we are not sure how we will return to India, The Indian Express quoted S Prabhu, a resident of Karnataka as saying.

Describing their ordeal, Parbhu, who went to Sudan with his family to sell Ayurvedic products, informed them that they had no food for three days and that the water tank in the building they are living in will soon run dry.

We have not taken a bath or used water for any other purpose than to drink. A wall of one of the houses in the complex has been hit during the crossfire, he told Indian Express.

Meanwhile, the Indian Embassy in Sudan has issued an advisory for Indians stranded in the zone. Advisory number 2 to all Indian Nationals in Sudan as of 16th of April 2023: Dear Indian Nationals in Sudan, Based on the latest inputs the fighting has not subsided on day two. We sincerely request all fellow Indians to continue to stay where they are and not venture outside, the embassy tweeted.

#Sudan: Stranded Indians asking to come homeThose stranded in warzone place are Indians, they will be brought back by the Govt of India: @sprakaashbjp says region not key. "He's an outdated politician", KPCC's @Sanket_Yenagi rebuts, fights for the State's duty (@toyasingh) pic.twitter.com/O93AajKNFu  News18 (@CNNnews18) April 18, 2023

The Indian authorities are reportedly working on a plan to get the stranded citizens out of Sudan.

Meanwhile, Congress leader Siddaramaiah urged the Central govt, MEA and Karnataka CM Basvaraj Bommai to immediately intervene and ensure the safe return of 31 people from Karnataka belonging to the Hakki Pikki tribe.

Read all the Latest India News here
The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday began hearing arguments on a batch of petitions seeking legal validation of same-sex marriages in the country. The case is being heard by a five-judge Constitution bench comprising Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and Justices S K Kaul, S R Bhat, Hima Kohli and P S Narasimha.

A bench headed by the CJI had taken note of the submissions of Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who had mentioned the plea to decide the preliminary issue. CJI Chandrachud said the court will hear the Centres submission on that at a subsequent stage.

Same-Sex Marriage Hearing LIVE UPDATES

Appearing for petitioners, senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi said, I will first establish that we have a fundamental right to get married and get it registeredthen there come various rights that flow after getting married like getting pension, bank accounts etc.

I heard the submissions that we are not equal like heterosexuals. The State does not make two types of Citizens. We are all citizens of India. We became equal in 1950

He said he is pained to read in newspapers that its a social and elitist concept.

How was Lord Ayyapa born? It was a union of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu in the form of Mohini. When a Hindu widow remarriage was allowed even then society did not accept it. Sometimes Parliament acts with less alacrity or more alacrity After Navtej, we have seen how people from our community are perceived. Stigma is still there I cannot be told that wait for the Parliament to grant me these rights when Im dead and gone. The choice of an individual is not an elitist concept."

CJI said, You say that the LGBT community has the right to marry, and at the same time, society cannot say we will deprive you of the benefit that conventional social relationships give. It is not enough to leave them alone it is essential to give them relevant social institutions.

Rohatgi said, It is not good enough to say that we will leave you alone minus 377.

CJI said, We are social animals but for society to say that we will leave you alone but deny you the social relationships which are the basis of society thats not acceptable.

CJI asked the petitioners counsel that, if the Supreme Court declares that people belonging to queer community have a right to marry, what is the next step?

Are you saying that Special Marriage Act already recognises that right in it?" he asked.

Appearing for petitioners, senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi said that provisions of the Special Marriage Act were made 70 years ago, and there have been evolutions- live in etc have come in.

I want to say that your lordships may broadly read spouse" in place of man and woman" or husband and wife"," he said.

He further argued that the concept of marriage has changed over the last 100 years. Earlier we had child marriages, temporary marriages, a person could marry any number of times - that also changed," he said.

If we have the same rights as heterosexual groups, we have the same right to marry tooThe legislative drafting which was done 50-70 years ago cannot stop what Im constitutionally entitled to get," Rohatgi added.

Hearing the argument, CJI Chandrachud said that at this stage, we can steer clear of personal law" and changes in SMA is one possible option". However, he added, we cant deny the fact that there is undoubtedly the legislative element also involved."

Appearing for the state, Solicitor General Mehta told that there is no legal lacuna in the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act and the question is not of granting a socio-legal sanction.

He apprised the court that it has been clarified that none will discriminate against transgender persons. There are provisions of reservation for transgender," he adds.

He further reiterates to first take up the Centres plea raising preliminary objection on the petition seeking recognition of same-sex marriage.

We are misdirecting the question. Its not about protection or privacy or equality of the LGBTQ but the right of conferment of a socio-legal status and whether that can be done by judicial legislation," Mehta said.

Solicitor General argued that even if the Supreme Court does not go into personal laws, the window could again open in the future.

Mehta further argued that societal acceptance of any relationship is never dependent on either legislation or judgement. The legislative intent of the legislature throughout has been a relationship between a biological man and a biological female, he said.

To this, CJI noted that no such thing as an absolute concept of biological man and woman.

However, Mehta insisted that it was indeed a question of ones genitals, whereby a man would mean a biological man only.

The hearing and the consequential outcome will have significant ramifications for the country where common people and political parties hold divergent views on the subject.

SC To Hear Centres Objection to Court Deciding Same-Sex Marriage Legality

The apex court will also hear the Centres plea questioning the maintainability of these petitions seeking to legalise same-sex matrimony, which it termed as a very sensitive socio-legal issue that fell under Parliaments exclusive law-making powers

The Centre on Monday said the petitions seeking legal validation of same-sex marriage reflects an urban elitist view for the purpose of social acceptance. The government told the top court that recognition of marriage is essentially a legislative function which the courts should refrain from deciding.

It also asserted that legal validation for same-sex marriages will cause complete havoc with the delicate balance of personal laws and accepted societal values.

A bench headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud took note of the submissions made by Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who mentioned the plea to decide a preliminary issue. The CJI said the bench also comprising justices PS Narasimha and JB Pardiwala will hear the matter today.

ALSO READ: Urban Elitist Concept: Centre Cites Islamic, Hindu Law To Opposes Legal Recognition of Same-Sex Marriages in SC

SCs View On The Issue Of Same Sex Marriage

While referring the pleas to the constitution bench, the court had said the submissions on the issue involve an interplay between constitutional rights on the one hand and special legislative enactments, including the Special Marriage Act, on the other.

Having due regard to the broader context of the petitions before this court, the inter-relationship between the statutory regime and constitutional rights, we are of the considered view that it would be appropriate if the issues raised are resolved by a constitution bench of five judges of this court," the bench had said while referring to Article 145 (3) of the Constitution and calling it a very seminal issue".

We accordingly direct that the hearing of these petitions be placed before a constitution bench," the apex court said while posting the pleas for hearing on April 18.

Article 145(3) of the Constitution says there should be at least five judges to hear cases that involve a substantial question of law as to the interpretation of the Constitution, or any reference under Article 143, which deals with the power of the President of India to consult the Supreme Court.

The court said in the batch of pleas, the petitioners have sought recognition of the rights of couples of the same gender to marry, and while relying upon the apex court verdicts on right to privacy and decriminalising section 377 of the Indian Penal Code, they have asserted broader constitutional entitlements arising out of the right to life and personal liberty, right to dignity and others.

The bench had said one of the issues raised before it also relates to the rights of transgender couples to marry.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta had told the bench that marriage is not just a contract in the case of Hindu law which it is in Mohammedan law.

When the question of granting recognition, legal sanction to a relationship is concerned, that is essentially a function of the legislature and for more than one reason," he said.

The apex court had, on January 6, clubbed and transferred to itself all such petitions pending before different high courts, including the Delhi High Court.

On December 14 last year, the top court had sought the Centres response to two pleas seeking a transfer of the petitions pending in the Delhi High Court for directions to recognise same-sex marriages to itself.

Prior to that, on November 25 last year, the apex court had sought the Centres response to separate pleas moved by two gay couples seeking enforcement of their right to marry and a direction to the authorities concerned to register their marriages under the Special Marriage Act.

A bench headed by CJI Chandrachud, who was also part of the Constitution bench that in 2018 decriminalised consensual gay sex, issued a notice to the Centre in November last year, besides seeking Attorney General R Venkataramanis assistance in dealing with the pleas.

The top courts five-judge Constitution bench, in a path-breaking unanimous verdict delivered on September 6, 2018, held that consensual sex among adult homosexuals or heterosexuals in private space is not a crime while striking down a part of the British-era penal law that criminalised it on the ground that it violated the constitutional right to equality and dignity.

Read all the Latest India News here
A massive fire broke out in buildings of Orion Business Park and adjacent Cine Wonder Mall in Kapurbawadi, Ghodbunder Road in Thane on Tuesday.

#WATCH | Maharashtra: Fire breaks out in the buildings of Orion Business Park & adjacent Cine Wonder Mall in Kapurbawadi, Ghodbunder Road in Thane. Several fire tenders at the spot. Police, disaster management and fire brigade officers at the spot.(Source: Regional Disaster pic.twitter.com/JWjpa8iD1Z  ANI (@ANI) April 18, 2023

Several fire tenders are present at the spot along with police, disaster management and fire brigade officers.

There were no reports so far of anyone getting injured as efforts to douse the fire at Orion business park are on, he said.

The ground-plus-five stories building, located next to Cine Wonder Mall, houses more than 60 shops and offices.

The fire started around 8.30 pm and spread to the adjoining mall, said chief of the Thane Municipal Corporations Regional Disaster Management Cell Avinash Sawant.

(With PTI inputs)

Read all the Latest India News here
After several years of work, the Oregon Global Warming Commission published a new Oregon Climate Action Roadmap to 2030, which includes extensive recommendations to inform state climate action.

"We started developing a Roadmap that would identify policies and actions needed to meet Oregon's greenhouse gas emissions reduction goal of at least 45 percent below 1990 levels by 2035," said Oregon Global Warming Commission Chair Catherine Macdonald. "However, through our review of the best available science, we determined that Oregon needs to go further and faster than the existing goal. The new Roadmap to 2030 reflects that urgency and demonstrates that it is not only feasible to achieve the state's 2035 goal by 2030, but doing so will also provide substantial economic and health benefits for Oregonians."

The Roadmap includes six overarching recommendations:

Support robust and continuous implementation of existing climate programs and regulations. Adopt updated state greenhouse gas goals consistent with the best available science. Advance a set of additional climate actions that can help Oregon meet an accelerated greenhouse gas emission reduction goal of 45 percent below 1990 levels by 2030. Support further study and analysis to continue to guide effective climate action over time. Strengthen governance and accountability for Oregon climate action. Position Oregon to take full advantage of federal investments in climate action.

Each of these recommendations includes several sub-recommendations (a total of 26 sub-recommendations).

"There is a great deal of work ahead to ensure the Roadmap recommendations are accomplished, not the least of which is ensuring that the existing programs and regulations designed to reduce Oregon's sector-based greenhouse gas emissions are implemented and operate as planned with the necessary staffing and resources," said Macdonald. "Without robust implementation of these programs and regulations, Oregon will not be able to achieve its greenhouse gas goals."

In addition to implementing existing programs and regulations, the Roadmap identifies 35 additional actions the state can take to achieve the Roadmap-recommended 2030 goal. More than a third of the actions focus on energy efficient buildings, with cleaner transportation options and renewable energy accounting for most of the others. The technical analysis underpinning the Roadmap found that these actions would create thousands of new jobs and more than $120 billion in cumulative net economic and health benefits in the state through 2050 and beyond.

The Oregon Global Warming Commission funded development of the Roadmap with grant money from the U.S. Climate Alliance, and worked with Oregon Department of Energy staff and consulting firm Sustainable Solutions Group (SSG) to develop an Oregon-specific model to forecast the potential emission reductions from existing and new mitigation actions. The modeling was part of the Transformational Integrated Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction (TIGHGER) Project that informed the Roadmap recommendations. A more detailed discussion of the TIGHGER analysis and results can be found in the TIGHGER Project Report published as part of the Roadmap.

Parallel to the new Roadmap, the Oregon Global Warming Commission also delivered its required biennial report to the Legislature, reporting on recent climate impacts and current progress toward the state's greenhouse gas goals. According to preliminary emissions data, despite an overall reduction in emissions in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Oregon still missed its 2020 greenhouse gas reduction goal by 13 percent. And, with an increase in emissions in 2021 closer to pre-pandemic levels, Oregon is now 19 percent off the 2020 goal.

"While it's disappointing that Oregon missed its 2020 greenhouse gas reduction goal, the Roadmap to 2030 provides a path forward to ensure we don't miss our next goal," said Macdonald.

The Roadmap to 2030 also sets the ambition for climate action beyond 2030 by recommending updated greenhouse gas goals for the state. In addition to the accelerated 2030 goal of at least 45 percent below 1990 emissions levels, the Roadmap recommends more ambitious goals for later years including: a 2040 goal of at least 70 percent below 1990 levels; a 2050 goal of at least 95 percent below 1990 levels; a goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050 or as soon as practicable; and a goal to achieve and maintain net negative emissions thereafter.

The Oregon Climate Action Roadmap to 2030 (including the Roadmap recommendations), the TIGHGER Project Report, and the 2023 Report to the Legislature can be found on the Oregon Global Warming Commission's website.

Media Contact: Catherine Macdonald, 503-475-6782
After quiet quitting" and quick quitting," now heres conscious quitting," a term describing one of the reasons why workers might quit their job. In this case, the driving force behind their departure is directly related to their personal values, since more and more employees are considering shutting the door on companies that they feel fall short on environmental or social commitments.

Would you quit your job because the company you work for is not (sufficiently) committed to equal pay or is not taking steps to reduce its carbon footprint? For some workers, especially younger ones, these demands are not just a passing whim. In fact, they are becoming more and more crucial. In a recent survey of 4,000 British and American workers by Opinium, a third of employees say they have already left a company because its values were too far removed from their own, and almost half would consider doing so. Is this proof that this approach is starting to gain momentum? Either way, a term has now been coined to describe this behavior: conscious quitting."

In concrete terms, conscious quitting" refers to the idea of wanting to part ways with a company whose activities and practices go against your personal values, whether they are ecological, political or ethical. First described by Paul Polman, climate and equalities campaigner and former Unilever CEO, who commissioned the above-mentioned survey, this phenomenon highlights the growing scale of workers desire to make commitments through their job choices. Any CEO who thinks they will win the talent wars by offering a bit more money, some extra home-working and a gym membership is going to be disappointed. The era of conscious quitting is on the way," Paul Polman explains in a foreword to the research.

The end of bulls**t jobs?

The quest for meaning at work is most often illustrated through ecological values, which are increasingly coveted by employees. A survey conducted by Unedic and Elabe published in early April reveals that 44% of French workers would consider company practices running counter to the ecological transition as a reason to leave, while 48% consider this reason sufficient to put them off applying for a job. These opinions converge with those expressed in another survey, published a year ago by Audencia and Jobs That Make Sense, in which 57% of respondents explained that they wanted to contribute to the challenges of the ecological and/or social transition" through their job.

The global health crisis triggered by the Covid-19 pandemic has acted as a powerful catalyst on changing peoples attitudes to and perceptions of work. In the space of a few months, new words and expressions have been coined to describe phenomena that reflect a profound transformation in our relationship with work. First, there came quiet quitting," this silent resignation that involves staying in a job but doing the strict minimum to make sure that work doesnt affect your mental health.

Then there came rage applying," when people fire off job applications after a disappointing professional experience in the hope of finding a job or a company that truly deserves them! Then theres quick quitting," which means never staying too long in a company, to make sure you dont succumb to boreout. The aim is to always feel useful, motivated and, above all, to never get bored!

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Its the moment royal watchers around the world have been waiting for: the exciting details of King Charles IIIs coronation ceremony have finally been unveiled. And theres some exciting news for fans of the young royals: Prince George, the future king, will play an official role in the service, making him the youngest royal ever to do so.

Buckingham Palace has released key details about the event, including the colourful invitation sent to the 2,000 guests and a stunning new portrait of Their Majesties. However, the most exciting details are related to the pages of honour who will attend to the King and Queen Consort during the service, including carrying their heavy robes down the aisle of Westminster Abbey. The role of Page of Honour is typically given to teenage sons of members of the nobility and gentry and lasts for two to three years.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Royal Family (@theroyalfamily)

According to traditions, the King and Queen Consort are set to have four pages of honour each. According to Tatler, Pages of Honour usually hold their position for two or three years, and they are also required to attend the State Opening of Parliament, where four pairs of hands are necessary to carry the king or queens lengthy and heavy train.

For King Charles, his grandson and future king, Prince George, Lord Oliver Cholmondeley, Ralph Tollemache, and Nicholas Barclay will be serving in this role. The Queen Consort has chosen her grandsons Master Gus, Master Louis Lopes, and Master Freddy Parker Bowles; as well as her great-nephew, Master Arthur Elliot, as her pages of honour.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Royal Family (@theroyalfamily)

The eldest son of the Prince and Princess of Wales, William and Catherine, Prince Georges official role in the royal ceremony makes him the first future king in modern history to be involved in such a service. He is the youngest future king to play an official role at a coronation. While King Charles attended Queen Elizabeths coronation at the age of four, and Queen Elizabeth attended her fathers coronation at the age of 11, they were not involved in the official proceedings. The nine-year-old Prince George will be responsible for carrying the Kings robes alongside other pages of honour. This decision has been deemed significant for the future and will be a memorable experience for Prince George.

The coronation of King Charles III and Queen Consort Camila is set to take place on May 6 at Westminster Abbey in London.

Read all the Latest Lifestyle News here
World Heritage Day, also known as International Day for Monuments and Sites, is observed annually on April 18th to raise awareness about the importance of preserving cultural and natural heritage sites around the world. The day highlights the significance of these sites in terms of their historical, cultural, and aesthetic value.

The day aims to draw attention to the vital role that heritage sites play in promoting cultural diversity, preserving history, and fostering sustainable development. These sites are not only important for their intrinsic cultural and historical value, but they also contribute significantly to local economies and provide employment opportunities in tourism and related industries.

The day serves as a reminder of the need to protect and conserve these sites for future generations. It raises awareness about the threats that heritage sites face, such as natural disasters, urbanization, pollution, and climate change. It also encourages governments, organizations, and individuals to take action to preserve and promote these sites through various means, such as education, research, and community engagement.

Here are five heritage properties by SaffronStays you must visit to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of our country.

Amaya, Kannur

The Kallur Illam in Kannur, Kerala is a heritage estate that has stood the test of time for over 300 years. Illam (also referred to as Mana) is the Malayalam word for the house of a Namboodiri Brahmin, the traditional feudal elite. The history of this Illam is essentially the history of the Tangals of Northern Malabar. It was the Tharavad, or ancestral house, of the Tangals of Northern Malabar, who resisted Tipu Sultans subjugation campaign and fought to keep local culture and traditions alive. During its prime, the estate was a 50-acre estate with several buildings, including a temple, a horse stable, a blacksmith forge, a Kalarippayattu school, barracks, and residences. The home owners bought the 5-bedroom heritage estate from the last Tangal in 1990, and the family decided to restore it to its former glory. The Illam has been restored meticulously using traditional carpenters and masons from near and far, and modern elements of comfort and design were added without overpowering the beautiful Malabar architecture. The home has Nadumuttam or inner courtyard, a massage room, the Mandapam or the sitting area, Kalari or the outdoor court and even a Kulam or pond. If you love history and architecture, SaffronStays Amaya, Kannur, has to be on your bucket list.

Amolee, Alibaug

When the Bene Israelis fled Israel and came to India more than 2200 years ago, they got shipwrecked in Nagaon, a small fishing village on Maharashtras Konkan coast. They sought help from the local Koli community and made Alibaug their new home. This led to a unique hybrid community, born out of interesting historical events and a seamless intermingling of cultures.

Built in 1830, this Wada thats easily over 200 years old, was painstakingly restored to its original glory. When this 4-bedroom home was built, metal was not used for constructing homes back then and hence the home was built using Burma Teak wood, limestone and bricks which makes the structure extremely strong and has stood the test of time since then. The current home owners bought the home in 1982 and has been with the family ever since.

The home is a landmark for all Jews in the vicinity, being one of the oldest in Sagaon. Many Jewish functions have been celebrated in this villa before the home underwent renovation and restoration efforts. The Mangalorean roof tiles on the top floor remain as they were from a century ago. The house is built so beautifully and extremely ventilated owing to the many floor-to-ceiling windows everywhere. The exteriors of the home have been painted a shade of warm white to highlight the hand-polished window frames and doors. These frames and doors have been polished using the best wood polish to preserve the look of the Sagwan wood over time. All the furniture was made by a local carpenter using Burma teak (Sagwan wood). Youll find beautiful shades of teal and turquoise in the upholstery and royal golden hues for the blinds giving the home a wonderful old-world charm. All the light fixtures in the home are vintage and made in brass.

pure water

Calamondinn Bungalow, Coorg

In the upper lounge area, well have you travel back in time when you see the antique old telephone, reminiscent of a bygone era. And if you take a walk through the backyard, you will find another piece of history - a stone well which was said to be the only source of water for the entire village, a century ago. The well still haswhich many say is potable. If you love a good heritage villa, this should be on your list!

Nestled in southern Coorg in Gonikoppa and bordering Nagarhole Tiger Reserve, this estate is a 6000 sq. ft. colonial bungalow located amidst a verdant landscape of endless coffee plantations and forests.

Originally built in the 1890s, the 5-bedroom home was built by Charles Edmund Waring. Charles was a hunter and farmer who built the home to enjoy the beauty of Coorg while farming on the neighbouring land. The home owner and his family acquired the home from Charless grandchildren and painstakingly restored and maintained the home to keep the old world charm alive. The property has some colonial, Victorian rococo & Lutyen influences which one can see in the decor and furniture. The home is filled with several antiques and pays homage to its original owner. The house is Victorian, with intricate, wooden framed mirrors, ornate chandeliers, a gramophone, grandfather clock and many portraits through the home.

For a heritage home like this, restoration efforts are key to maintaining its charm. The owners do timely maintenance checks like roofing around the monsoons and getting the furniture lacquered from time to time, ensuring the colour palette of the wall stays the same and more to ensure this heritage home, SaffronStays Calamondinn Bungalow, is well-maintained and continues to keep its door open for guests.

Parsi Manor, Matheran

SaffronStays Parsi Manor is a traditional 19th-century colonial bungalow that once belonged to an erstwhile Parsi family from the hill stations of Matheran. With the recent restoration, the current owner has preserved a rich legacy for perpetuity. The 4-bedroom heritage bungalow reflects a strong Parsi cultural influence. This 130-year old Parsi-owned bungalow with its priceless curios, vintage honeycomb tiles, and earthy decor emanates an old world charm. There is also a cupboard in the home that commemorates the humanitarian work of the Home Owners relative in Yazd.

Legacy by Om Villa, Almora, Uttarakhand

SaffronStays Legacy by Om Villa was built around the 1830s by the Britishers and is easily more than 150-years old. It is a traditional 4-bedroom heritage homestay in Hawalbagh near Almora that overlooks the Kosi River. Originally built as a rest house for British officers, this restored and renovated bungalow is a 4-hour drive away from Pantnagar Airport (131 km). In fact, this home was the first establishment in the Kumaon region after the Britishers defeated the Gurkhas, the original rulers of Kumaon. This is the area where the British parked their army and also brought defense forces to this hill. And it is how this bungalow, which is referred to as Dak(meaning letter conveyor) bungalow came to be as the British when traversing through would stop at these bungalows every 8 miles. The home was made of rocks found in the area as at that time metal was not accessible as a material for building homes. The roofs are traditional, made of wood and tin. Since it was made as a place to stop, the interiors are minimalistic and clean. The home was designed in such a way that during winters, the home can feel relatively warmer and during summers, it can feel relatively cooler. Another point to note is that around 7 Kms from the home is the Katarmal Surya Temple which is a replica of the Konark Sun temple, boasting intricate carvings and designs on wooden doors and panels and making this a tourist attraction that is now preserved by the Archaeological Survey of India.

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The Congress in Kerala on Tuesday continued their attack on BJP over the saffron partys recent outreach towards the Christian community by stating the people understand the hypocrisy" of the Sangh Parivar.

Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the state Assembly V D Satheesan said the Christian community in Kerala will not accept the BJP which he termed as a wolf in a sheeps clothing.

Addressing the media here, Satheesan said the BJP was trying to get closer to the community aiming at the vote bank as the Sangh Parivar understands that they cannot attack the Christians like they do in north India.

The Christians very well understand the hypocrisy of the BJP and its newfound love towards that community. There is a rise in the number of attacks towards Christian community In a petition filed before the Supreme Court, the community has said that 598 churches were attacked Recently, a BJP minister from Karnataka has asked his followers to beat up Christians," Satheesan said.

He said while the Sangh Parivar has been attacking Christians across the country, they are trying to woo the members of that community in Kerala.

The people of the state do understand the hypocrisy of the BJP They know that the act of the BJP leaders visiting the Bishop houses was a farce. People will not accept the BJP which is a wolf in a sheeps clothing," the senior Congress leader said.

The BJPs minority outreach programme and the ongoing visit of party leaders to Christian houses has been strongly criticised by the Congress and the ruling CPI(M) in the state.

BJP leaders in Kerala visited the Bishops of various Christian communities on Easter and also hosted breakfast and feast for the members of the group on the occasion of Vishu with an aim to attract the prominent minority religion.

They had also conducted Sneha Yatra to Christian homes on Easter as an attempt to forge close ties with the Christian community as part of efforts to court them ahead of the 2024 general elections.

The BJPs massive minority outreach programme is in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modis announcement last month that the party would capture power in the southern state.

Both the ruling CPI(M) and the opposition Congress in Kerala had criticised the BJPs moves to cultivate the Christian community by alleging that it indicated the saffron partys double standards.

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Days after Gangster Atiq Ahmed was gunned down, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday said that no mafia or criminal can threaten anyone in the state now.

Addressing an event in the state, the chief minister said that those who were a threat to UP earlier dont stand a chance and that UP is now a threat to them.

He further highlighted that earlier  during the Samajwadi party reign  the state was known for riots and saw over 700 such incidents between 2012 and 2017.

But after 2017, he added, not a single riot has broken out in the state, nor has there been a need to impose curfews anywhere. Just names of many districts scared people. Now there is no need to be scared, he said.

#WATCH | Now mafia cannot threaten anyone in Uttar Pradesh, says CM Adityanath days after Mafia brothers Atiq-Ashraf were killed amid police presence & Atiqs son Asad was killed in a police encounter pic.twitter.com/hjfeBVF6qt ANI (@ANI) April 18, 2023

The government under him guarantees effective law and order arrangements, the chief minister highlighted.

His comments come days Atiq Ahmed and his brother Ashraf were gunned down point-blank range as they were being escorted by the police into a Prayagraj hospital Saturday night for a medical check-up.

Police officers who were escorting the Ahmad brothers during the time of the incident, arrested Lavlesh Tiwari (22) from Banda, Mohit alias Sunny (23) from Hamirpur, and Arun Maurya (18) from Kasganj after they opened fire. Tiwari sustained injuries in a cross-fire, which also resulted in a police officer being hurt,

The police have charged the three men for murder, attempted murder, and violation of the Arms Act. During the investigation, at least two firearms were recovered from the site of the shooting.

Ahmeds killing came two days after Atiqs son Asad was killed in an encounter in Jhansi.

Read all the Latest Politics News here
The political situation in Maharashtra seems unstable, with the speculation that Sharad Pawars Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) under the leadership of his nephew, Ajit Pawar, could be split, just when the Supreme Court could deliver its verdict on the disqualification plea in the Sena vs Sena case anytime.

But the former Maharashtra deputy CM, Ajit Pawar, has dismissed reports on switching over to the BJP with the backing of a section of his party MLAs. I am in the NCP. The news, which is floating that I have taken signatures of 40 MLAs, is wrong. I am not going anywhere. Such news about me is nothing but another attempt to divert the issue from main issues which people of Maharashtra are facing.

The question arises why is the BJP looking for another partner in the state when they have Eknath Shinde and his Shiv Sena camp with them?

According to sources in the BJP, the party is working on a plan in case the Supreme Court gives its order in the disqualification plea against chief minister Eknath Shinde and his MLAs. Then, the BJP would want another strong partner to join them and form the government in the state.

In the current scenario, Uddhav Thackerays Shiv Sena does not have enough MLAs and Congress being the traditional opponent of the BJP is certainly not an option. Therefore, the remaining coalition partner NCP, which has 54 MLAs and had shown interest in giving outside support to the Devendra Fadnavis government in 2014.

According to another source in the BJP, NCP leaders such as Ajit Pawar, Praful Patel, Anil Deshmukh, Nawab Malik, Hasan Mushrif and Salil Deshmukh are already facing the heat of central agencies. In such a scenario, no one should be surprised if the NCP leaders take the same road which Shinde and his supporters took and form their own camp.

All will be welcomed if they are ready to follow our ideology, the source said, adding that in the current political situation Ajit Pawar and Fadnavis who have got better control over the administration in Maharashtra and can work relentlessly for the progress of the state. If these two leaders come together, a lot can be done in the state, the source further said.

According to the leader from the NCP, who also work closely with Ajit Pawar, the state governments performance under Eknath Shinde is not good. This government has completely failed on the issue of farmers. They are not taking any positive decision for the people of the state, considering the general election in 2024; it is very difficult for the BJP to win maximum seats from the state. Hence, the BJP is looking out for another partner. But, as of now, there is no such movement in the party and Sharad Pawar is in touch with all the NCP leaders and MLAs.

Amid all the speculations on Ajit Pawar joining the BJP, NCP chief Sharad Pawar had said in Pune that everyone in the party is working to strengthen it. Ajit Pawar has not called any meeting of MLAs. All these talks are in the media only.

According to the sources, Congress leader KC Venugopal and other leaders of Maharashtra Congress had met Uddhav Thackeray on late Monday evening, and discussed the political instability in the state.

The Eknath Shindes Shiv Sena may walk out of the government if Ajit Pawar joins the BJP, said Shiv Sena rebel MLA Sanjay Shirsat.

Sharad Pawar, the architect of Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) in the state, now has another challenge to keep his flock intact or it will be an embarrassing situation for him to be in at the national level.

NCPs Twitter handle posted on Tuesday, Whatever discussion is in your mind is not in the mind of any of us. This discussion has absolutely no importance Talking about the NCP, our party and colleagues are working in the role of how to make the party stronger with one idea. There is no other thought in anyones mind. In the news, it was read that there is a meeting of NCP MLAS. But this is hundred percent false. No one has called any such meeting. I have not called any meeting in this regard

Meanwhile, Maharashtra NCP president Jayant Patil gave a statement on Tuesday refuting any speculation on Ajit Pawar joining BJP. There was no discussion between Ajit Pawar or any other party. We are with Ajit Pawar and he is with NCP, he stressed.

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Amid speculations about growing proximity with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Nationalist Congress Party leader Ajit Pawar said that he is not planning to join hands with the BJP and will always remain in NCP.

The clarification comes against the backdrop of reports speculating a plausible political move by Ajit Pawar amid his increasing closeness and softening stance towards the BJP.

Some media reports even claimed that Pawar might make a switch and join BJP. However, the NCP leader has dismissed the claims as false and baseless rumours.

I am with the NCP and will remain with the party: Ajit Pawar, LoP Maharashtra Assembly & NCP leader pic.twitter.com/VpLnF4tJfQ ANI (@ANI) April 18, 2023

Speculation began to swirl last week when Ajit Pawar suddenly cancelled his scheduled meetings and made remarks that were observed as softening towards the BJP and Chief Minister Eknath Shindes camp. The BJP is part of the Shinde government.

Earlier, NCP chief Sharad Pawar also refuted such claims and said that his nephew and senior party leader Ajit Pawar has not called any meeting of party MLAs.

Speaking to the media in Purandar, Sharad Pawar said whatever discussions are going on in the minds of the media are not there in our minds.

There is no importance of all these discussions. The reports have no meaning. I can say about NCP that all our colleagues are of one thinking of how to make the party stronger, and there is no other thought in anybodys mind, the party chief said.

The partys state president (Jayant Patil) is busy with a local election in his region, and another party leader Ajit Pawar is also busy with the work of the party and providing guidance to everyone, he told PTI.

In a press conference on Tuesday, Pawar trashed rumours of him switching to BJPs side and said that his party will never join hands with the saffron camp.

Meanwhile, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut, who is an NCP ally, on Sunday put a stop to such speculations claiming that Sharad Pawar recently told him that his party will never join hands with the BJP even if anyone takes an individual decision to do so.

Read all the Latest Politics News here
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday took a break from the political hustle and visited the Matia Mahal market in old Delhi and the Bengali market in the Mandi House area to treat himself to some popular dishes, including gol gappas and chaat.

Gandhi, who returned to Delhi after campaigning for the party in poll-bound Karnataka, visited old Delhis Chandni Chowk, which is abuzz with activity during the month of Ramzan.

Wearing a blue T-shirt and surrounded by Special Protection Group (SPG) security, he visited a famous sharbat vendor in the Matia Mahal area and other street food eateries. He treated himself to fruits and also had a taste of gol gappas at Nathu sweets at the Bengali market.

In the pictures shared on social media, Gandhi was seen mobbed by the people who were elated to see the former Congress chief. He also interacted with some people and then went straight to a gol gappa stall and enjoyed the chat.

A large crowd gathered around him in old Delhis narrow streets and even raised slogans.

Gandhi has often been seen visiting popular eating joints in the national capital.

He was on March 23 sentenced to two years in jail by a court in Gujarats Surat in a 2019 criminal defamation case over his why all thieves have the Modi surname" remark. A day later, he was disqualified from the Lok Sabha from the date of his conviction in the case. The Gandhi scion had made those remarks at Kolar in April 2019 during the Lok Sabha poll campaign.

(with inputs from PTI)

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All India Majlis-E-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) MP Imtiaz Jaleel on Tuesday said he would pay Rs 10 lakh to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and his deputy Devendra Fadnavis if they sat in the hot sun for three hours.

Jaleel, MP from Aurangabad in central Maharashtra, hit out at the state government and organizers of Sundays Maharashtra Bhushan award ceremony in Navi Mumbai.

As many as 14 persons who attended the event have died due to heat stroke so far.

I congratulate the person who got the Maharashtra Bhushan award (Appasaheb Dharmadhikari). But unfortunately politics is clearly seen in this incident. Lakhs of people are asked to attend an event in the afternoon. The leaders sit in a tent while the people who put them on stage are asked to sit in the sun," he told ABP Majha, a Marathi news channel.

After people died, the leaders visited hospitals and announced aid of Rs five lakh for the kin of the deceased, Jaleel added.

I ask Amit Shah, Devendra Fadnavis and the Chief Minister, what is the cost of your life that you decide the cost of the life of the deceased people as five lakh rupees.you sit for three hours in the hot sun. I will pay you ten lakh rupees," he said, adding that he was not wishing that anything unfortunate should happen to them.

of Rs five lakh, the government has mocked the kin of the deceased, the AIMIM MP said, adding that an assistance of at least Rs 50 lakh should have been announced.

He also said that inviting people in such large numbers for the award ceremony was dirty politics." This event never took place in the open ground and with so many people in the past," he said, claiming that crores of rupees were spent on its organisation.

A case of murder should be registered over the incident, he demanded.

The award ceremony was held in Kharghar area on Sunday.

It was attended by lakhs of people, most of them followers of social worker Appasaheb Dharmadhikari who was given the Maharashtra Bhushan award of the state government at Union Minister Shahs hands.

Read all the Latest Politics News here
The President of Youth Congress Assam unit has accused wing chief Srinivas BV of harassing her and discrimination due to her gender.

In a series of tweets today, Assam Youth Congress president Dr Angkita Dutta claimed she apprised Rahul Gandhi of Srinivas harassment and demeaning use of language towards her but no probe has been ordered so far.

IYC President Srinivas has continually harnessed me and was discriminating on the basis of my gender. My values and education doesnt allow me anymore. The leadership has played deaf ears despite bring front of them MANY TIMES," she tweeted.

She said she has kept quiet for months waiting for them to take action against him yet no one seems interested. Srinivas, in the guise of his PR, is getting away with all kinds of wrongdoings, she added.

Despite my complaints, no enquiry committee has been initiated against @srinivasiyc Is this the safe space @RahulGandhi talks about women @priyankagandhi Dr Angkita Dutta (@angkitadutta) April 18, 2023

Reacting to Duttas allegations, Srinivas said whoever is found indulged in propagating/peddling false & defamatory content will be held liable under the relevant laws & will be held accountable for their acts.

:-When one person makes an accusation, check to be sure he himself is not the guilty one. Sometimes it is those whose case is weak who make the most clamour." Whoever is found indulged in propagating/peddling false & defamatory https://t.co/A41j6nvn8o pic.twitter.com/aewplKzI1w  Srinivas BV (@srinivasiyc) April 18, 2023

Meanwhile, the Indian Youth Congress legal cell said Dutta has resorted to using utterly unparliamentary, undignified, defamatory, malicious words against Srinivas & has levelled totally frivolous allegations against him. The cell said it is initiating strong/stringent legal action in the matter.

BJP leader Amit Malviya launched attacks on the Congress over the issue and said harassment of women is endemic in Congress ranks.

Dr Angkita Dutta, President of IYC Assam, alleges being harassed by Srinivas BV, IYCs National President for her gender. She says that even after approaching Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi, no inquiry committee has been constituted. Harassment of women is endemic in Congress ranks," he tweeted.

Read all the Latest Politics News here
The DOE announced that the Hanford Integrated Tank Disposition Contract (ITDC) was awarded to Hanford Tank Waste Operations & Closure, LLC (H2C), which is a joint venture led by a BWXT subsidiary and includes subsidiaries of Amentum and Fluor.

"This is the largest single contract award in our company's history and is a stair-step achievement as we strengthen our leadership position in environmental restoration at highly technical projects across the nation," said Rex Geveden, BWXT's president and chief executive officer. "Our company remains highly committed to this critical mission for the U.S. Department of Energy and our emphasis on environmental stewardship and sustainability more broadly going forward."

"Our team is honored to take on the largest and most complex radioactive waste cleanup project in the United States," said Heatherly Dukes, president of BWXT's Technical Services Group. "We are committed to working with our DOE Environmental Management customer, regulatory authorities and the Tri-Cities community in safely reducing the environmental liabilities at the site in an efficient and effective manner that is protective of the workforce, the public and the environment."

The scope of the ITDC includes operation of Hanford tank farm facilities, eventual operation of the Waste Treatment and Immobilization Plant, and responsibility for other core functions such as project management, security and emergency services, business performance, and environment, safety, health and quality.

The DOE is engaged in one of the great public works projects of this century at the Hanford Site near Richland, Washington. Responsible for the federal government's cleanup of the legacy of more than 40 years of producing plutonium through the 1980s, DOE is transforming the site back into an operations mode to treat tank waste from the production era. More information is available from the DOE's Office of Environmental Management.

Forward Looking Statements

BWXT cautions that this release contains forward-looking statements, including statements relating to the performance, timing, impact and value, to the extent contract value can be viewed as an indicator of future revenues, of the ITDC, future work at the Hanford site, or the award or exercise of any contract options or orders. These forward-looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties, including, among other things, modification or termination of the ITDC. If one or more of these or other risks materialize, actual results may vary materially from those expressed. For a more complete discussion of these and other risk factors, please see BWXT's annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022 and subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. BWXT cautions not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this release, and undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, except to the extent required by applicable law.

About BWXT

At BWX Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: BWXT), we are People Strong, Innovation Driven. Headquartered in Lynchburg, Virginia, BWXT is a Fortune 1000 and Defense News Top 100 manufacturing and engineering innovator that provides safe and effective nuclear solutions for global security, clean energy, environmental remediation, nuclear medicine and space exploration. With approximately 7,000 employees, BWXT has 14 major operating sites in the U.S., Canada and the U.K. In addition, BWXT joint ventures provide management and operations at a dozen U.S. Department of Energy and NASA facilities. Follow us on Twitter at @BWXT and learn more at www.bwxt.com.
Cadbury Bournvita invited criticism on social media after an Instagram influencer had to take down his video on the drinks high sugar content after being served a legal notice. Since then, Bournvita released a statement refuting the claims made by Revant Himatsingka, terming them unscientific". The company further claimed that the influencer distorted facts and made false and negative inferences", as per an India Today report.

The incident, however, sparked concern among people regarding the contents of what they consume as health drinks. Their marketing and promotional strategies, coupled with the taste factor, also play a significant role in consumer behaviour, especially when it comes to childrens psyche. Highlighting this, a Twitter user wrote a thread about how the marketing of Cadbury Delite, a malted beverage that was available in the market many years ago, influenced his and his friends psyches as children.

It was called Cadbury Delite. It was launched with a commerical which was bombarded on Cartoon Network and other kids shows. (Fox Kids on Star Plus as well but poor memory)As any retail FMCG launch, the shelves in Lucknow were stacked with Delite jars and promo schemes aplenty.  Rajat Dutta (@RajatDutta13) April 17, 2023

My school friends were suddenly raring about Cadbury Delite and how drinking milk was just like eating melted Dairy Milk.Everyone was full of praises for it & as a guilible kid, I demanded that we have Delite at home rather than our usual Horlicks. Delite at any cost.  Rajat Dutta (@RajatDutta13) April 17, 2023

My father got Delite. But when he was unpacking, he took out the Protinex box, which was now half the size of the usual monthly purchase unit.I had the first red flag go off in my mind. I didn't say anything but suddenly I wasn't excited about Delite being at home anymore.  Rajat Dutta (@RajatDutta13) April 17, 2023

Horlicks had worked perfectly so far. This is pre 6th pay commission time & a house undergoing a medical-financial crisis.I didn't speak to anyone for a few days. Could barely like having the milk with Delite. I was so guilty that I must have cried a couple of times back then.  Rajat Dutta (@RajatDutta13) April 17, 2023

..even though this memory had faded over 20 years but the effect has stayed with me. To an extent, it becomes difficult to explain to others some of the thought processes I have while buying stuff.Today, all of this came back to memory after Bournvita discussions on my timeline  Rajat Dutta (@RajatDutta13) April 17, 2023

I don't know if anyone remembers Delite anymore & I couldn't find anything more than this ad which was carpet bombed to kids back then.What a damaging impact Cadbury's Streisand effect will have on this entire category.https://t.co/YABwGoDPk5  Rajat Dutta (@RajatDutta13) April 17, 2023

Many other Twitter users recalled having had similar experiences with brands and peer pressure when they were children.

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Twitter CEO labelled Canadian public broadcaster Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) as 69% Government-funded Media after the media organisation said it will pause its activities on Twitter after being labelled as government-funded media.

Canadian Broadcasting Corp said theyre less than 70% government-funded, so we corrected the label, Musk tweeted on Monday.

His labelling of CBC comes after the organisations spokesperson Leon Mars comments who said they were being falsely described. Twitter can be a powerful tool for our journalists to communicate with Canadians, but it undermines the accuracy and professionalism of the work they do to allow our independence to be falsely described in this way, CBCs Mar said.

Consequently, we will be pausing our activity on our corporate Twitter account and all CBC and Radio-Canada news-related accounts, Mar further added.

CBC on its Twitter account said: Our journalism is impartial and independent. To suggest otherwise is untrue. That is why we are pausing our activities on @Twitter.

Elon Musk and mainstream media outlets are involved in growing argument over who sponsors them after the Tesla and SpaceX CEO labelled UKs BBC and the US NPR as government-funded media outlets.

The @BBC account - which has 2.2 million followers - is currently branded as government funded. The label has not been given to the BBCs other accounts, including BBC News (World) and BBC Breaking News, reported CNN.

Twitter has not given a definition for what it considers government-funded media" to constitute.

BBCs labelling has been changed to Publicly-funded media along with BBC Breaking News, BBC World.

We are speaking to Twitter to resolve this issue as soon as possible. The BBC is and always has been, independent. We are funded by the British public through the licence fee, BBC said, after being labelled by the social media site as government funded.

The labelling of the news organisations has angered news media outlets because it leads to people believing that their editorial policy is being influenced by the US government, a speculation these outlets deny while claiming they have full editorial control unlike Chinese state-run Global Times or Russian state-run outlets like TASS, Sputnik or RIA Novosti.

NPR earlier lashed out at Twitter and said it would stop using the social media site due to the false labelling.

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Police in California have arrested 17 people in connection with a series of shootings in Gurdwaras in Stockton, Sacramento and other locations and seized weapons such as AK 47, handguns, and at least one machine gun in a series of raids carried out over 20 places, the State Attorney General said Monday.

The 17 felony arrests, mostly members of the local Sikh community, were made during a large-scale operation with agents executing search warrants at 20 locations in Northern California on Sunday according to an announcement made by California Attorney General Rob Bonta, Yuba City Police Chief Brian Baker, and Sutter County District Attorney Jennifer Dupre.

At a news conference Dupre said, two of the people arrested are mafia members who are wanted on a number of murders in India.

The arrested members, said California Attorney General, are part of rival criminal syndicates who are alleged to be responsible for numerous violent crimes and shootings, including five attempted murders, in Sutter, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Solano, Yolo, and Merced counties.

Im so proud of our partners in law enforcement for their work on this case.Each of us wears a different uniform. But were all united by a common value: Public safety is job number one. pic.twitter.com/8Hqnxw1UCm  Rob Bonta (@AGRobBonta) April 17, 2023

Members of these groups were allegedly involved in a mass shooting at a Stockton Sikh temple which took place on August 27, 2022, and a shooting at a Sacramento Sikh temple on March 23, 2023.

During the investigation, law enforcement was able to prevent two additional shootings from occurring, a press release said.

Today, California is safer thanks to collaboration, determination, and swift action by DOJ agents and our law enforcement partners in Sutter County, said California Attorney General Rob Bonta.

No family should ever have to worry about drive-by shootings or other forms of gun violence in the neighbourhoods where their children live and play. As a result of this joint law enforcement effort, were taking guns off the street and putting suspected gang members and their associates behind bars, he said.

An investigation of this magnitude requires a tremendous amount of time and effort, and especially a lot of personnel, said Sutter County District Attorney General Jennifer Dupre.

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Sudan, where fighting is raging between the army and paramilitary forces led by rival generals, has a history of civil strife and coups.

Here are five things to know about the vast east African country:

- Same ruler for 30 years -

Sudan was ruled for three decades by career soldier Omar al-Bashir, who is wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) on charges of war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide.

Bashir seized power in a 1989 coup during the second of two civil wars fought by the mainly Muslim north against the mainly Christian and animist south after Sudan gained independence in 1956.

Under Bashir, an Islamist, floggings were frequently meted out for crimes such as adultery and drinking alcohol.

He signed a peace deal with the south in 2005 but was accused of widespread atrocities in the western Darfur region, where he deployed a brutal Arab militia in 2003, known as the Janjaweed, to suppress a rebellion by non-Arab rebels in a war that left hundreds of thousands dead.

In 2013, the Janjaweed fighters were formed into the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), the heavily armed paramilitary force that is currently battling Sudans military.

Bashir was deposed by the army in 2019 after a popular uprising triggered by the tripling of the price of bread. The military seized power again in 2021, led by army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan.

- Split in two -

Sudan endured two civil wars between its northern and southern regions, the first from 1955 to 1972 and the second from 1983 to 2005. Millions died in the conflicts.

Under the terms of a 2005 peace deal, the Southerners were allowed to hold an independence referendum.

In January 2011, 99 percent voted to secede and the independent state of South Sudan was born six months later.

The split removed roughly a quarter of the territory of what had been Africas largest country.

Sudan also lost most of its oil fields, which are situated in South Sudan.

- Bin Laden links -

The late leader of the Al-Qaeda terror network, Osama bin Laden lived in Sudan for five years in the 1990s, investing heavily in the local economy.

But he was expelled in 1996 after the US piled pressure on Khartoum to expel suspected terrorists.

Two years later, Al-Qaeda bombed US embassies in Kenya and Tanzania, killing over 200 people. The US retaliated by bombing a pharmaceutical plant in Khartoum. Washington claimed the plant was linked to chemical weapons, which Sudan vehemently denied.

In 2020 Sudan was removed from a US blacklist of alleged state sponsors of terror in a quid pro quo with Washington for normalising relations with Israel.

- Gum power -

Sudan is the worlds largest producer of gum arabic, a key ingredient used in everything from soft drinks to chewing gum and pharmaceuticals.

The golden blobs of resin tapped from thorny acacia trees are one of Sudans main foreign currency earners.

Their importance to the world economy earned them a special exemption from the US trade embargo imposed on Sudan during the three decades of Bashirs rule.

Meanwhile, the trees themselves are drought resistant, helping Sudan, which is one of the countries worst affected by climate change, fight desertification.

- More pyramids than Egypt -

Sudans ancient civilisations built more pyramids than the Egyptians, but the ancient tombs of Meroe, about 220 kilometres (136 miles) north of Khartoum in the desert, remain largely unexplored.

Meroe was the heartland of the Kush kingdom, which occupied Egypt for close to a century until the seventh century BC.

Around 250 pyramids have been excavated at the UNESCO World Heritage Site since the 1960s.

But unlike the grander Egyptian pyramids of Giza, they rarely receive visitors.

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The foreign ministers of the Group of Seven (G7) advanced economies on Tuesday stressed the need to remain united against Russia and its so-called military operation against Ukraine.

The foreign ministers also urged Beijing to abstain from threats, in a communique published following the meeting.

The G7 foreign ministers promised that if Russia uses chemical, biological or nuclear weapons in Ukraine, then it will be met with severe consequences. They also said that nations supporting Russias war on Ukraine will face severe costs, pointing to Belarus, which is keen on letting Russian President Vladimir Putin deploy nuclear weapons there.

The ministers told China to not threaten, coerce or intimidate and refrain from increasing tensions in the East and South China Seas, referring to the militarization of the zone and its increasing threats to Taiwans sovereignty.

There is no change in the basic positions of the G7 members on Taiwan, including stated one China policies, the foreign ministers said in the communique, stressing on the need for peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, saying that it is anindispensable element in security and prosperity in the international community.

The communique tried to present an united front following French President Emmanuel Macrons comments on Europes approach to Taiwan, where it asked the continent to not become just Americas followers.

China has expressed its discontent with the G7 and said the communique grossly interfered in its internal affairs, and maliciously smeared and discredited the country.

It was full of arrogance, prejudice against China and we have made a strong demarche to the host Japan, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said.

The group, which comprises the United States, Japan, Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Italy and Canada focused solely on Ukraine and Taiwan, while there was mention of the ongoing crisis in Sudan.

We strongly condemn the ongoing fighting between the Sudan Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which threatens the security and safety of Sudanese civilians and undermines efforts to restore Sudans democratic transition, the statement said.

The foreign ministers also discussed North Koreas weapons testing and nuclear programs and the situation in Myanmar.

The blocs only Asian member Japan is hosting the G7 meetings this year and the foreign ministers met in the central Japanese town of Karuizawa in Nagano prefecture. The leaders of the G7 nations and as well as representatives from the European Union, will gather for a summit in Hiroshima.

(with inputs from Reuters and CNN)

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Over 14,000 people have been arrested and 8,000 weapons seized in an anti-firearms operation across Central and South America, Interpol said Tuesday.

As well as weapons, the raids swept up over 200 tonnes of cocaine and other drugs worth $5.7 billion, as well as 370 tonnes of drug precursors (chemical ingredients), the France-based police cooperation body said in a statement.

Dubbed Trigger IX", it was the biggest firearms operation ever coordinated by Interpol," it added.

The fact that an operation targeting illicit firearms resulted in such massive drugs seizures is further proof, if needed, that these crimes are intertwined," Interpol chief Juergen Stock said in the statement.

Beyond the people arrested and guns seized, police and other authorities also laid their hands on 305,000 rounds of ammunition.

A 100,000-round haul in Uruguay trafficked internationally by two European nationals" was the countrys largest-ever such seizure", Interpol said.

The body said its actions had helped uncover other crimes including corruption, fraud, human trafficking, environmental crime and terrorist activities".

Members of the Balkans Cartel, Brazilian organised crime outfit PrimeiRo Comando da Capital and El Salvadors Mara Salvatrucha mafia were all arrested over arms trafficking, while 11 trafficked people were freed in Paraguay.

Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Panama, Paraguay, Peru and Uruguay participated, while the operation itself was funded by the European Union.

Trigger IX drew in police forces as well as other law enforcement agencies such as the US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

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Moscow said on Tuesday it had summoned the US, British and Canadian ambassadors for gross interference" in Russias domestic affairs.

Russias foreign ministry did not say precisely why the envoys were called in, but Moscow already blasted them for their statement denouncing a 25-year sentence against Kremlin critic Vladimir Kara-Murza on Monday.

The ambassadors were summoned for gross interference in Russias internal affairs and activities that do not correspond to their diplomatic status," the foreign ministry said in a statement carried by Russian news agencies.

The high-profile opposition politician Kara-Murza, who also holds the British citizenship, was on Monday sentenced to 25 years in prison on treason and other charges for criticising the Ukraine offensive.

Todays verdict is a sad testament to the dark turn this struggle (for democracy) has come to," Canadian ambassador Alison LeClaire said at the time.

Foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova implied the envoys would be called in to refresh their memories so that they remember what diplomats should and should not do".

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The Pakistan National Assembly rejected the supplementary demand to provide PKR21 billion to the federal government to meet the expenses for the elections in Punjab province on Monday, thereby defying the top courts directions.

It should be noted that the Pakistan Supreme Court directed the federal government to release funds and ensure security for elections in Punjab province. The federal government was told to release funds to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to hold general elections in Punjab during the current fiscal year.

The National Assembly rejected the supplementary demand with a majority vote after Pakistan law minister Azam Tarar moved a summary to grant the required funds.

Speaker Raja Pervaiz Ashraf put the motion before the house for a voice vote after which it was rejected by the members of the national assembly.

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on Monday demanded the Supreme Court initiate contempt proceedings against Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for not releasing funds to the ECP for the polls. The party vice president said the State Bank of Pakistans decision to not release funds was in violation of the laws.

Chaudhry said the court should initiate proceedings and disquality the prime minister and his cabinet for contempt of court. The former information minister said despite his party agreeing to hold dialogues over the political situation in the country, the ruling party appeared non-serious.

People familiar with the developments said the Pakistan apex court is likely to summon the officials and initiate contempt proceedings anytime.

Chaos over Supreme Court (Practice and Procedure) Bill, 2023

The Pakistan Bar Council (PBC) said it will observe Tuesday as black day to express their protest against the order passed by the Supreme Court suspending the operation of the Supreme Court (Practice and Procedure) Act 2023.

The Supreme Court (Practice and Procedure) Act 2023 passed by the Pakistan parliament proposes to limit the Pakistan chief justices powers and proposes to limit the chief justices powers to form benches as well as fix and transfer cases.

The Supreme Court (Practice and Procedure) Act 2023 seeks to transfer these powers to a three-member committee, which will also comprise the Pakistan chief justice and two senior-most judges of the top court. The committee will also decide whether or not to take up a matter on suo motu, a power that is solely bestowed on the chief justice.

The bar appealed to the Supreme Court to show restraint from exacerbating the political crisis and allow political forces to resolve the political issues.

(PKR - Pakistani Rupee)

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Pakistans top officials of the two premier spy agencies met the Chief Justice and other judges of the Supreme Court on Monday on the case related to the provincial election in Punjab on May 14.

According to sources, the meeting between the judges and Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and Military Intelligence (MI) chiefs continued for over three hours in the Chief Justice of Pakistans chamber.

Sources said the intelligence official gave a briefing to the judges on the security issues confronting the country.

The three-judge bench comprising Justice Munib Akhtar and Justice Ijazul Ahsan led by Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial on April 4 declared unconstitutional the Election Commission of Pakistans (ECP) decision to postpone the election for the Punjab Assembly and ordered it to hold polls in the province on May 14.

The same bench on April 14 ordered the State Bank of Pakistan to release Rs 21 billion to the ECP for conducting elections in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

April 17 was the last date to inform the ECP about the security plan according to the direction of the Supreme Court.

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf chairman Imran Khan has been demanding early elections in Pakistan since his ouster in April 2022 after he lost a vote of confidence in Parliament.

The National Assemblys current term will be completed in August. According to the Constitution, elections will be conducted within 90 days of dissolution of the lower house. This means the elections should be held in mid-October.

The PTI dissolved assemblies in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunwkhwa on January 14 and 18 to pressure the ruling coalition government to hold early general elections.

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Andrew Lester, 85, a white homeowner in US Kansas City, Missouri was charged with armed assault on Monday after he shot Black teenager, Ralph Yarl, 16, twice on Thursday.

Yarl, a high school junior, was on his way to pick up his younger brothers from a play date but ended up going to a wrong address. Yarl was supposed to go to 115th Terrace but he ended up ringing the doorbell at a home on 115th Street, Faith Spoonmore, Yarls aunt said in a post online.

The octogenarian faces a charge of armed criminal action after shooting Ralph Yarl and protests and public outrage have mounted following the incident at both local and national level, with vice president Kamala Harris also weighing in.

The protests focused on why Lester was released initially without any charges against him. He is currently not in custody but an arrest warrant has been released for his arrest.

Yarl is currently recovering at home and was released from a Kansas City hospital on Sunday. He is being treated for gunshot wounds to his head and chest.

The documents charging Lester say that no words were exchanged before he opened fire.

The prominent civil rights lawyer Benjamin Crump is representing the Ralph family and said that it is hard not to consider the racial dynamics of the incident while speaking to CNN.

We can only imagine if the roles were reversed, and you have a Black man shooting a 16-year-old white child who was simply ringing his doorbell, and the police took him in for questioning and let him come home and sleep in his bed at night. How much outrage would there be in America? Its unacceptable. We demand justice, Crump was quoted as saying by CNN.

Stacey Graves, chief of the Kansas City police, defended the release of the homeowner but acknowledged that the case has caused a lot of frustration among the people.

Graves pointed out that Missouri law states a person can be held for only 24 hours before being formally charged or released. The Guardian in their report said Yarl suffered a fractured skull, a traumatic brain injury involving swelling, post-concussive syndrome and injuries to his arm.

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A memorandum of understanding was signed this morning (April 13) by the Walloon Region, represented by Minister-President Elio Di Rupo, Vice-President and Minister for the Economy Willy Borsus, Vice-president and Energy Minister Philippe Henry, Minister for Finance Adrien Dolimont, and the European Investment Bank (EIB), represented by Vice-President Kris Peeters.

The agreement seeks to facilitate cooperation between the EIB and Wallonia in the hydrogen sector.

This includes Walloon projects that could be eligible for EIB support in the form of financing, but also guidance and advice. The EIB generally covers up to 50% of a project's cost through loans. This agreement strengthens the existing close ties between the EIB and Wallonia.

EIB Vice-President Kris Peeters said: "The EIB's goal is to accelerate the transition from a carbon-intensive economy to a more sustainable and climate-resilient low-carbon economy. It is therefore fully committed to supporting this transformation through a balanced and socially just approach. This is why the EIB has decided to increase its share of financing for projects that support climate and environmental objectives to 50% by 2025. In addition to financing, the EIB provides technical and financial support to determine financing needs and improve the bankability of projects."

According to the Walloon ministers, "Hydrogen is a vital resource for the energy transition and is a key driver of medium and long-term climate policy. When it comes to developing the potential of hydrogen, Wallonia hopes to become a major European player. This is why the region has sought out a number of hydrogen-related projects and initiatives, financed mostly through its recovery plan."

Prior to signing the agreement with the EIB, Wallonia had already made headway in the hydrogen sector by backing a number of projects.

As an emerging sector that requires substantial financial support the reason for the partnership with the EIB IPCEI projects (important projects of common European interest) have already received 88 million of support from the Walloon Region through the recovery plan for Europe. The projects supported will put Wallonia on the hydrogen map in Europe and globally.

Wallonia has already made progress on the following projects:

Columbus (IPCEI)

This project is a collaboration between ENGIE Electrabel, Carmeuse and John Cockerill. A water electrolysis unit produces the hydrogen necessary for the biomethanation process. The oxygen produced by electrolysis will be partly used in a new lime kiln that uses oxyfuel combustion (without nitrogen). Any oxygen not required by Carmeuse will be put to another use. The new type of lime kiln developed by Carmeuse uses oxygen instead of air (oxyfuel furnace). This combustion process produces the heat necessary to break down limestone into lime, but the flue gases are also treated to recover the carbon dioxide. Alternative fuels may be used, producing flue gases with varying chemical compositions. The recovered carbon dioxide will then be used in a new biomethanation process.

John Cockerill (IPCEI)

The goal of the John Cockerill project is to build a large electrolyser manufacturing plant (100 MW or more) in an EU country that would then produce and export electrolysers. The project is being developed in collaboration with France, which will finance the production of stacks (the electrolysis cell stacks that produce hydrogen) in the Alsace region. The electrolysers would then be assembled at a site in Seraing, Belgium, which has the necessary equipment and expertise in machining, welding and coating. This assembly plant would complement the internal research and development skills of the engineers developing high-performance technology. New technologies in the field of alkaline electrolysis will also be tested in Seraing.

In addition to boosting industry with these highly appealing innovative projects, Columbus and John Cockerill Hydrogen will create 250 full-time equivalent jobs in the hydrogen and decarbonisation sector.

They are also committed to working with Walloon universities and research centres to transfer knowledge.

E-WallonHY (IIS strategic innovation initiative)

The E-WallonHY project aims to develop a green hydrogen economy in Wallonia covering the various components of the value chain. These include the production of green (electrolytic) hydrogen, its storage and transport, and its use in some of the most promising applications for high-purity hydrogen, including transport, construction and industrial processes such as the production of ammonia.

This agreement marks a new milestone in the structural development of this future industry key to the transition.

Thanks to the agreement, the EIB will:

Exchange information and knowledge on the hydrogen sector to create a common understanding of the challenges and main financing issues;

Collaborate with the Walloon government to identify market needs/gaps and eligible projects;

Assess the possibility of providing technical assistance to better identify priority investments, at the request of the Walloon government;

Share its expertise and explore more complex financing structures that could help accelerate the implementation of investments in the sector;

Play a significant role in building a low-carbon future in Wallonia by evaluating financing for cleaner projects in the region and supporting a green and competitive economy.

Meanwhile, Wallonia is seeking to:

Create the conditions required to speed up the implementation of the projects and initiatives in the Walloon strategic hydrogen plan;

Further strengthen bilateral cooperation with the EIB in order to provide the financial support and technical assistance needed to accelerate investment in the sector;

Help identify projects that are of strategic importance to the Walloon government and that may be eligible for EIB advisory support or technical assistance and/or for EIB financing;

Prepare the ground to attract private sector investment by minimising public funding and using support mechanisms to make projects bankable so that they can be implemented faster;

Invite the EIB to participate in the financing of relevant projects that cannot be covered by the Walloon regional budget;

Discuss national and regional financing programmes, the use of existing EU funds, framework loan co-financing opportunities and the possible provision of new resources to finance projects of particular strategic importance that fall within the EIB Group's remit;

Explore ways to combine other EIB financing with regional funds (such as for the possible creation of a Walloon hydrogen fund) and with EU funds, including under the Recovery and Resilience Facility and InvestEU.

Wallonie Entreprendre (WE) has been appointed as the intermediary for Wallonia in the cooperation agreement.
Tensions which were brewing for several weeks between Sudans two most powerful generals erupted into a full-blown conflict this Saturday.

The armed forces chief General Abdel-Fattah Burhan and the head of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary group, General Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo are now fighting over several issues and have halted the process for a return to the democratic transition.

Before delving into the current situation, it should be noted that the years 2019 and 2021 are related to the current crisis that has engulfed the African country.

The country, described by the Associated Press, is at the crossroads of the Arab world and Africa and in 2019, through largely peaceful protests ousted former president Omar al-Bashir, with the help of the military.

The military after overthrowing Bashir took control of the resource-rich nation for two years while setting up a government under former prime minister Abdalla Hamdok and the Sovereign Council, a joint military and civilian body.

This was dissolved in October 2021 and it led to protests and more than 150 people were injured and close to 100 people died.

After General Burhan assumed control of the country with the help of the RSF, negotiations began towards the end of 2022 for a return to the democratic transition that had been halted by the October 2021 coup.

What Led to the Fighting?

The Sudanese military and the RSF are now deployed in full capacity in Khartoum, signalling that the fighting could intensify. Over 200 people have died and 1,800 have been injured in the fight that has been raging over three days.

The fighting began because RSF chief Dagalo wanted the RSF to be integrated into the Sudan military. There were also thorny issues like who would have more control over fighters and weapons.

A report by the Associated Press claimed that Dagalo is trying to fashion himself as a supporter of the transition and wants democracy to return and this year he even criticised General Burhan by saying that his military does not want to relinquish power.

Dagalo, according to the Associated Press report, played a major role during the 2003 Darfur conflict in clamping down on Sudan Liberation Army (SLA) and Justice and Equality Movement (Jem) which claimed that the non-Arab Sudanese were being oppressed by the Sudanese of Arabic origin.

Dagalo over the weekend began deploying forces around the small town of Merowe north of the capital. The Associated Press pointed out that Merowe is strategic due to its large airport, central location and downstream electric dam on the Nile River.

He also sent more forces around Khartoum without Burhans consent.

Fighting erupted at a military base south of Khartoum and both sides are blaming each other for starting the tensions. Fighting in Khartoum and twin city Omdurman continues with both sides fighting each other with heavy weapons, including armoured vehicles and truck-mounted machine guns, in densely populated areas of the capital.

The fighting has spread to the strategic coastal city of Port Sudan on the Red Sea and eastern regions, on the borders with Ethiopia and Eritrea and also to the wartorn Darfur region.

What Now?

The prospects of a ceasefire are slim. The US secretary of state Antony Blinken, the Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and his South Sudanese counterpart Salva Kiir and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) have urged all sides to deescalate the situation.

It is unclear if the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, with the three-day holiday of Eid al-Fitr, will play a role and bring some respite to the Sudanese population.

Foreign Powers at Play

Russia, the US and the European Union are all vying to take control of the resource-rich African country. The Encyclopedia Britannica says Sudan has gold, uranium, chromite, gypsum, mica, marble and iron ore and a huge potential when it comes to generating electricity through hydroelectric plants.

Russian mercenary group Wager started making inroads into Sudan when Bashir was in power. Dagalos RSF and the Sudanese army under Burhan forged close ties with Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

The army controls several resource-rich zones but the RSF controls major gold mining areas. However, the country of over 46 million people is one of the poorest developing countries of the world with over a large section of the population living in poverty.

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Taiwan will buy as many as 400 U.S. land-launched Harpoon missiles in the face of rising threat from China, Bloomberg News reported on Monday, citing a trade groups leader and people familiar with the issue.

A contract with Boeing that the U.S. Naval Air Systems Command issued on Taiwans behalf marks the first time the island will get the mobile, land-launched version, the report said citing Rupert Hammond-Chambers, president of the US-Taiwan Business Council. It previously purchased the ship-launched version.

This month, U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy hosted Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen in California and stressed the need to accelerate arms deliveries to Taiwan in the face of rising threats from China.

After the meeting, Mike Gallagher, Republican chairman of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, said he would like to look for ways to get Harpoon anti-ship missiles to Taiwan ahead of those scheduled to go to Saudi Arabia.

In 2020, Taiwan said that it planned to buy land-based Boeing-made Harpoon anti-ship missiles as part of its military modernization efforts.

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UK police faced criticism Tuesday after arresting a French publisher under terrorism legislation for obstructing" a probe allegedly prompted by recent pension reforms protests in France.

Ernest Moret, who works at left-wing French publisher Editions La Fabrique was travelling to the London Book Fair.

He was detained by British border officers after arriving at London St Pancras railway station from Paris on Monday evening.

The Metropolitan police said they stopped him and arrested him the following day on suspicion of wilfully obstructing a Schedule 7 examination".

Schedule 7 allows specially trained officers to search and detain individuals and goods passing through the UKs border to determine whether they may be involved or used in acts of terrorism".

The London police force said Tuesday afternoon their enquiries continue" and Moret remained in custody, but by the evening updated that he had been released on bail.

The Met declined to provide any further details.

Morets publisher and UK-based Verso Books branded his treatment scandalous", while the National Union of Journalists (NUJ) called it extraordinary".

In a joint statement, Editions La Fabrique and Verso Books said the officers allegedly detained him to determine whether he was engaged in terrorist acts or in possession of material for use in terrorism".

The police officers claimed that Ernest had participated in demonstrations in France as a justification for this act," they added, calling the stance remarkably inappropriate" and indicative of complicity between French and British authorities".

The publishers noted that police demanded he divulge the pin code to his phone, with no justification or explanation offered".

We consider these actions to be outrageous and unjustifiable infringements of basic principles of the freedom of expression and an example of the abuse of anti-terrorism laws," they said.

Moret had dozens of appointments with foreign publishers at the London Book Fair  taking place in the British capital from Tuesday to Thursday.

The NUJs Pamela Morton added: It seems extraordinary that the British police have acted this way in using terrorism legislation to arrest the publisher who was on legitimate business here."

Moret is the foreign rights manager for popular science fiction author Alain Damasio as well as Editions La Fabrique.

An independent left-wing publisher, it specialises in essays by collectives, activists and philosophers.

France has been hit by months of sometimes violent protests over President Emmanuel Macrons widely unpopular pension reforms, with the left and unions staging ongoing demonstrations nationwide.

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Swedish solar energy company Midsummer has been selected to be part of a research team aiming to reach 30 percent efficiency in Si/CIGS tandem solar cells. The project, which is led by the University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia, also includes world's leading solar panel manufacturers and has been awarded funding of AUD $3.08m from Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) with total project budget of AUD $11.55m [USD 8.21m;EUR 7.55m].

The University of New South Wales (UNSW) will lead the tandem solar cell project, with the most cash investment funded by ARENA. A significant part of the research will be carried out on the Midsummer UNO research machine for the production of thin film solar cells that the university previously purchased from Midsummer. The objective of the project is to produce a highly efficient and stable tandem solar cell with already commercialized technologies. The project's goal is to achieve over 30 percent efficiency.

Present mass-produced silicon panels have an efficiency of around 20 percent and thin film panels like CIGS (copper, indium, gallium, selenide and/or sulphur) slightly lower. By combining the technologies in so-called tandem solar cells, it is theoretically possible to reach a much higher efficiency (which is measured as a percentage according to the proportion of photons that are converted into electricity). In tandem solar cells, different semiconductor materials are combined in one device, each of which absorbs different areas of the solar spectrum. The result is more efficient solar cells.

Leading research institute in solar energy

The UNSW School of Photovoltaic and Renewable Energy Engineering is one of the leading solar research institutes in the world. UNSW Professor Xiaojing Hao, who heads the project, comments:

"We acknowledge the strong support from ARENA. By working closely with our project partners, world-leading chalcogenide and Si PV researchers and manufacturers, this project will provide next-generation, high-performance, durable and cost-effective tandem cells that can be rapidly scaled up."

"Midsummer's system an obvious choice"

"A tandem solar cell with silicon + chalcogenide has the best conditions for rapid commercialization as they are two mature, stable and proven technologies. As Midsummer's DUO system already today uses the same solar cell size as silicon solar cells, it would be the obvious production tool choice when the world's largest solar panels manufacturers want to commercialize tandem solar cells on a large scale", said Midsummer's CEO Sven Lindstrom.

Silicon-based tandem solar cells are seen as the main track to commercialize solar panels with over 30 percent efficiency. High-bandgap CIGS cells, which can be manufactured on Midsummer's machines, have demonstrated among the highest efficiencies for potential peak cells to combine with silicon and have the advantage of a very long lifetime as well as already proven scalability in mass production.

Please see images attached. Links to images and other press material: Press - Midsummer.

For additional information contact:

Peter Karaszi

Head of Communications, Midsummer

Email: peter.karaszi@midsummer.se

Tel: + 46 70 341 46 53

About Midsummer

Midsummer is a Swedish solar energy company that develops and markets equipment for the production of thin film solar cells and also manufactures, sells and installs solar roofs. The solar cells are of CIGS technology and thin, light, flexible, discreet and with a minimal carbon footprint compared with other solar panels.

The solar roofs are produced in Sweden using the company's own unique DUO system which has taken the position as the most widespread manufacturing tool for flexible CIGS solar cells in the world. The Company's shares (MIDS) are traded on Nasdaq First North Growth Market with G&W Fondkommission as Certified Adviser. For more information, please visit: midsummer.se
The defrocked Roman Catholic cardinal who became the face of the church's clergy sex abuse crisis has been charged in Wisconsin with sexually assaulting an 18-year-old man more than 45 years ago, court records show. A criminal complaint filed Friday alleges that Theodore McCarrick, who was removed from the priesthood in 2019 after a Vatican investigation found he had sexually molested adults and children, fondled a man in 1977 while staying at a cabin on Geneva Lake in southeastern Wisconsin, the AP reports. Wisconsin prosecutors learned of the 1977 allegation through a program dedicated to prosecuting instances of abuse by faith leaders. Officials were able to charge McCarrick because the statute of limitations does not apply to people who are not residents of the state.

The reported victim, who is not named, told investigators that McCarrick had repeatedly sexually assaulted him since he was 11 and even brought him to parties where other adult men sexually assaulted him, according to the complaint. McCarrick became the highest-ranking Roman Catholic official in the US to face criminal charges for sexual abuse when he was accused in 2021 of sexually assaulting a teenage boy in Massachusetts at a wedding reception in 1974. His attorneys asked the judge in that case earlier this year to dismiss the charges, saying that McCarrick, now 92 and suffering from dementia, is not competent to stand trial.

The once-powerful priest was ordained in 1958 and became archbishop in Newark, New Jersey, in 1986 and then archbishop of Washington, DC, in 2000. He rose to power despite church officials' knowledge of accusations against him. A two-year Vatican investigation into McCarrick's tenure found credible reports of his problematic behavior dating back to 1999, including an inquiry confirming that McCarrick had slept with seminarians. The church has confirmed it made financial settlements with adults who accused McCarrick of sexual misconduct. McCarrick retired in 2006 but continued to be active in political circles until he was defrocked by Pope Francis in 2019.

(Read more Theodore McCarrick stories.)
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, apparently hell-bent on showing Mickey Mouse who's boss, announced new measures Monday in his ongoing feud with Walt Disney World. The Republican governor said new legislation would block the company's attempt to circumvent control by a DeSantis-installed board. DeSantis said he also plans to give the state greater oversight of the park's rides and possibly build on land next to the park, NBC reports. "People have said maybe create a state park, try to do more amusement parks, someone said another state prison, who knows?" the governor said. "The possibilities are endless."

DeSantiswho often slams Disney as a "woke" corporationsaid a bill next week would restore power to his appointees in Disney's tax district, the New York Times reports. Last month, it emerged that the outgoing Disney-controlled board had stripped the new board of most of its powers. "They talked about a development agreement that would render everything we did null and void," DeSantis said Monday. "Well, thats not going to work. Thats not going to fly." The AP reports that another bill proposed by DeSantis would end an exemption to state inspection of rides at Disney, but not other theme parks in the state. Critics noted that the inspectors Disney currently uses likely have greater expertise in the kinds of rides involved than state inspectors do.

With DeSantis expected to announce a 2024 White House bid, former President Trump has been stepping up his attacks on the governor, NBC reports. In a Truth Social post Saturday, the former president referred to the surprise Disney moveand to the governor's failure to visit flood-hit Broward County. "First Ron DeSanctimonious got outplayed, outsmarted, and embarrassed by Mickey Mouse and Disney, and now, while Fort Lauderdale is facing the worst flooding in 100 years, DeSanctus is on tour with his shadow campaign for president, instead of taking care of the people of Florida," Trump wrote. (Read more Ron DeSantis stories.)
The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation has joined NPR and PBS in quitting Twitter, at least temporarily. The CBC says it is pausing its activities on Twitter because the company put a "government-funded media" label on its account, suggesting the Canadian government controls its content. "Our journalism is impartial and independent. To suggest otherwise is untrue," the public broadcaster said in a post on its Twitter account Monday, listing other platforms where it is still active.

"Twitter can be a powerful tool for our journalists to communicate with Canadians, but it undermines the accuracy and professionalism of the work they do to allow our independence to be falsely described in this way," said spokesperson Leon Mar. "Twitter's own policy defines government-funded media as cases where the government 'may have varying degrees of government involvement over editorial content,' which is clearly not the case with CBC/Radio-Canada," Mar said Sunday, noting that the broadcaster's "editorial independence is protected in law in the Broadcasting Act" and that its funding appropriation is voted on by all members of Parliament.

The CBC has asked Twitter to take another look at the designation, the AP reports. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's chief rival, Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre, urged Twitter CEO Elon Musk to give the CBC's English-language service the label last week, saying it broadcast "Trudeau propaganda," the Guardian reports. Trudeau fired back at Poilievre on Monday, saying he "runs to American billionaires" to "attack this institution that is important for many, many Canadians." (Read more Twitter stories.)
After lying to voters about his background the first time around, Rep. George Santos has decidednow that much of it is out in the opento ask voters to again send him to Congress. The New York Republican didn't mention the investigations and accusations facing him in his announcement, which he posted Monday on Instagram, the New York Times reports. "We need a fighter who knows the district and can serve the people fearlessly, and independent of local or national party influence," Santos said in the statement. "Good isn't good enough, and I'm not shy about doing what it takes to get the job done."

Santos had filed paperwork to run last month but not made an announcement. The incumbent is entering the race though members of both parties have already called on him to resign, per Vox. On top of everything else, his campaign's financial picture is bleak. His state's Republican Party organization won't be helping him. "From a political point of view, I don't think there's any future for him, said Chairman Edward F. Cox. At least one Democrat welcomed Santos' announcement, per MSNBC. "Frankly, I can think of no better representative of the modern-day GOP's stance on honesty and integrity than George Santos," said Pennsylvania Rep. Brendan Boyle. (Read more George Santos stories.)
An Oklahoma newspaper in McCurtain County has released a recording that appears to capture Sheriff Kevin Clardy, District 2 Commissioner Mark Jennings, sheriff's investigator Alicia Manning, and three other local officials in a very controversial conversation. The Oklahoman has a transcript of the recording released by the McCurtain Gazette-News, though the larger paper notes that it has not independently verified the audio. It starts with the group discussing a fire that killed a woman after she ran back in to save her dogs, per the Hill. Things get disturbing quickly, with graphic jokes made about barbecue. Then the conversation takes a few more disturbing turns.

First up: lynching, which Jennings allegedly seems to wax nostalgic for: "If it was back in the day, when that when Alan Marshton would take a damn Black guy and whoop their ass and throw him in the cell? Id run for f---ing sheriff," he opines, before Clardy allegedly says, "Yeah. Well, Its not like that no more." Jennings allegedly responds, "I know. Take them down to Mud Creek and hang them up with a damn rope. But you cant do that anymore. They got more rights than we got." Next up: the idea of hiring a hitman, with mention made of the very Gazette-News reporter who eventually broke the story with the leaked audio.

"If a hair on his wifes head, Chris Willinghams head, or any of those people that really were behind that, if any hair on their head got touched by anybody, who would be the bad guy?" Manning allegedly muses, with Clardy allegedly repeating, "Who would be blamed for it?" Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt is calling for Clardy, Jennings, Manning, and jail administrator Larry Hendrix, who is also allegedly heard on the recording, to resign, the Journal Record reports. "There is no place for such hateful rhetoric in the state of Oklahoma," he says. (Read more Oklahoma stories.)
Russian President Vladimir Putin has made a rare trip into occupied Ukrainian territory for a meeting with his commanders. The Kremlin released footage showing Putin in Kherson. He told commanders at a military meeting that he did not want to be a distraction, but "it is important for me to hear your opinion on how the situation is developing, to listen to you, to exchange information," the Kremlin said, per the BBC. He was briefed in Kherson and Zaporizhzhia, per Reuters. The Russian president is also thought to have visited Vostok National Guard personnel in Luhansk territory, per the BBC. Russia illegally annexed Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, Luhansk, and Donetsk last year.

The Kremlin said the trip came on Monday, per the AP. However, the BBC reports it was sometime before Orthodox Easter, which was celebrated Sunday. In footage, Putin refers to the holiday "coming up," a reference that has since been edited out. "The head of state also congratulated the servicemen on the Easter holiday and gave them copies of icons as a gift," the Kremlin said. Putin was quoted as saying the Russian Orthodox icon belonged to "one of the most successful defense ministers of the Russian Empire," per the BBC. Russian troops could use a moral boost. "A Russian winter offensive failed to make much progress and its troops have been bogged down in a series of battles in the east and south, where advances have been incremental and come at a huge cost to both sides," per Reuters.

However, a Ukrainian commander said Tuesday that Russia was "increasing the activity of heavy artillery and the number of air strikes" around Bakhmut in Donetsk region, "turning the city into ruins." A capture of the mining city could allow Russia to advance on the larger cities of Kramatorsk and Sloviansk, per Reuters. A video released by the Kremlin showed Putin arriving in Ukraine by helicopter. Locations weren't disclosed, so it's unclear how close he got to the front line, per the AP. Putin rarely visits Russian-occupied Ukraine, though this was his second visit in two months. He also traveled to Crimea and the city of Mariupol in Donetsk region in March. (Read more Vladimir Putin stories.)
Some "no parking" signs are more important than others, particularly those near large bodies of water. Police in Duxbury, Massachusetts, posted a photo of a car partially submerged on a local beach after the tide rolled in, reports NECN. The police photographer framed the image to include the pair of "no parking" signs the driver either missed or ignored. Duxbury is located on Cape Cod Bay.

"We are aware of the vehicle at the west end of the bridge, it will be removed when the tide goes out," reads the dry police post. Other police departments weren't as subtle: Whatever the fine is they will probably pay it in sand dollars, wrote the Whitman Police Department in its own post, per MassLive. The car was indeed towed on Monday, though there was no word on whether the driver faces a fine. (Read more Massachusetts stories.)
A Russian judge on Tuesday upheld the detention of jailed American journalist Evan Gershkovich, who was arrested on spying charges as part of a sweeping Kremlin crackdown on dissent and press freedom amid the war in Ukraine. He and the US government vehemently deny the allegations. A judge with the Moscow City Court rejected the reporter's appeal of his detention, ruling that he must stay in jail pending an investigation and trial, per the AP. Gershkovich could face up to 20 years in prison if convicted. Russian lawyers have said past investigations into espionage cases took a year to 18 months, during which time he could have little contact with the outside world.

The Wall Street Journal reporter is the first US correspondent since the Cold War to be detained in Russia on spying allegations and his arrest rattled journalists in the country and elicited outrage in the West. Dozens of journalists crowded into the courtroom to catch a glimpse of Gershkovich, who looked calm as he stood inside a glass cage. Russias Federal Security Service detained the 31-year-old in Yekaterinburg in March and accused him of trying to obtain classified information about a Russian arms factory.

Gershkovich, his employer, and the US government deny he was involved in spying and have demanded his release. Evan is a member of the free press who right up until he was arrested was engaged in newsgathering. Any suggestions otherwise are false," the Journal has said in a statement. Last week, the US officially declared that Gershkovich was wrongfully detained. Gershkovich has been held in Moscows Lefortovo prison, which dates from the czarist era and has been a terrifying symbol of repression since Soviet times.

(Read more Evan Gershkovich stories.)
When the power goes out during a storm, it's most often caused by trees falling on power equipment - and with the changing climate driving more frequent severe weather, tree trimming and removal near overhead lines is imperative to help fortify the electric system. Eversource's team of certified arborists works year-round developing and implementing its comprehensive, data-driven maintenance program to enhance system reliability for customers. This year, the energy company is investing $37 million in tree management across New Hampshire as part of a continuing goal to balance the need for electric reliability with the natural beauty that communities value.

"New Hampshire's roadside forest is not only getting older, it continues to suffer the effects of a variety of environmental factors ranging from stronger storms and successive droughts to a growing list of insect infestations and diseases," said Eversource Vegetation Management Manager Bob Allen. "The list now includes beech leaf disease along with the familiar spongy moth and emerald ash borer that continue to take a toll on trees across the state, and there are no signs of the problem going away. That's why our thoughtful program of identifying and removing weak and hazardous trees has never been more important. Tree trimming is one of the most cost-effective solutions to strengthening the electric grid, and we're constantly working to improve day-to-day reliability for our customers as we continue to see fewer power outages where this work has been done."

Comprehensively planned in close coordination with communities and the state, each year Eversource trims or removes trees near approximately one-quarter of its more than 12,000 miles of overhead power lines around the state. This year, work is scheduled to be done along more than 2,500 miles of lines with some of the most extensive work being done in these communities:

Derry: 140 miles

Grantham: 105 miles

Pittsfield: 80 miles

Hinsdale: 60 miles

Brentwood: 50 miles

"Trees are a cherished part of the cultural and environmental fabric of our state but can also pose significant public safety and electric reliability risks as the health of our roadside forest suffers," said Town of Hollis Department of Public Works Director Joan Cudworth. "Addressing the threats posed by hazardous trees requires a coordinated effort, and we're grateful for Eversource's proactive partnership to address local concerns as they arise."

Eversource always notifies customers in advance if tree work is necessary on their property. In addition to all the work Eversource crews do to minimize the effects of trees on reliable electric service, the company reminds homeowners that they are responsible for tree maintenance on their own property. This includes keeping branches away from the lower-voltage service wires connecting their homes and businesses to the main utility lines on the street. To complement its comprehensive annual tree maintenance program, Eversource also advances educational partnerships with arborists, municipalities, students, and the public about planting the right tree in the right place.

"New Hampshire is annually one of the most forested states in the country and nurturing the health of all those trees is a massive undertaking," said President of the New Hampshire Arborists Association Lisa Mitrano. "Eversource's continued commitment to communication, collaboration and education with municipalities, schools, property owners and other stakeholders is an integral resource for the public and our state as we all work together to improve the health of our trees."

For more information on Eversource's comprehensive vegetation management program, including educational resources and guidance for property owners, please visit Eversource.com.

Photo Caption: Bob Allen discusses threats like infestation and drought-induced stress that negatively impact the health of New Hampshire's trees.

Eversource (NYSE: ES), celebrated as a national leader for its corporate citizenship, is the #1 energy company in Newsweek's list of America's Most Responsible Companies for 2023 and recognized as one of America's Most JUST Companies. Celebrated as a national leader for its corporate citizenship, Eversource is New Hampshire's largest electric utility, serving nearly 532,000 homes and businesses in 211 cities and towns, and also supplies water to approximately 10,200 homes and businesses in seven communities. Eversource is proud to be recognized as the #1 contributor to United Way in New Hampshire. Eversource harnesses the commitment of approximately 9,500 employees across three states to build a single, united company around the mission of safely delivering reliable energy and water with superior customer service. The #1 energy efficiency provider in the nation, the company is empowering a clean energy future in the Northeast, with nationally recognized energy efficiency solutions and successful programs to integrate new clean energy resources like solar, offshore wind, electric vehicles and battery storage, into the electric system. For more information, please visit eversource.com, and follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. For more information on our water services, visit aquarionwater.com.

CONTACT:

William Hinkle

603-634-2228

william.hinkle@eversource.com
Sens. Mitch McConnell and John Fetterman got back to work on Monday after lengthy medical leaves, but Dianne Feinstein did notand the question of whether Senate Republicans would allow a temporary replacement for her on the Judiciary Committee was quickly answered. As the Hill reports, "GOP senators of all stripes" responded with a hard no. At issue are several of President Biden's judicial nominations, which are currently stalled in the absence of the six-term, 89-year-old senator. The panel is currently deadlocked at 10-10. A look around at what Feinstein's colleagues are saying, also via Politico:

Sen. John Cornyn, Texas Republican and senior member of the committee: "I, for one, am not going to help President Bidens most unqualified nominees to get confirmed. I dont think youll see us help in that effort."

Texas Republican and senior member of the committee: "I, for one, am not going to help President Bidens most unqualified nominees to get confirmed. I dont think youll see us help in that effort." Sen. Thom Tillis, North Carolina Republican and committee member: "I will vote against any attempt by Senate Democrats to temporarily replace Sen. Feinstein on the Judiciary Committee. I deeply respect Senator Feinstein, but this is an unprecedented request solely intended to appease those pushing for radical, activist judges."

North Carolina Republican and committee member: "I will vote against any attempt by Senate Democrats to temporarily replace Sen. Feinstein on the Judiciary Committee. I deeply respect Senator Feinstein, but this is an unprecedented request solely intended to appease those pushing for radical, activist judges." Sen. Susan Collins, Maine Republican: "Sen. Feinstein has been an extraordinary senator and shes a good friend of mine. During the last two years, theres been a concerted campaign to force her off the judiciary committee, and I will have no part of that."

Maine Republican: "Sen. Feinstein has been an extraordinary senator and shes a good friend of mine. During the last two years, theres been a concerted campaign to force her off the judiciary committee, and I will have no part of that." Sen. Lisa Murkowski, Alaska Republican: "We need to respect not only Senator Feinstein, but also our protocols here in the Senate."

Alaska Republican: "We need to respect not only Senator Feinstein, but also our protocols here in the Senate." Sen. John Thune, South Dakota Republican: "The Dems are sort of using this because they want pressure on her to resign. And I think this gives them sort of a lever to do that."

South Dakota Republican: "The Dems are sort of using this because they want pressure on her to resign. And I think this gives them sort of a lever to do that." Sen. Dick Durbin, Illinois Democrat and committee chair: "Shes asked to be replaced and I hope we can achieve that.  The rain can fall on both sides of the road, and Republicans ought to think a little bit about what this means. Tomorrow they may be facing the exact same thing."

Illinois Democrat and committee chair: "Shes asked to be replaced and I hope we can achieve that.  The rain can fall on both sides of the road, and Republicans ought to think a little bit about what this means. Tomorrow they may be facing the exact same thing." Sen. Chuck Schumer, New York Democrat: "She believes she will return soon. Shes very hopeful of that, and so am I."

(Read more Dianne Feinstein stories.)
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During the week of March 20, ten students from the University of Nevada, Reno, known as the Mackay Muckers, traveled to Kalgoorlie, Western Australia to compete in the 45th Annual Intercollegiate Mining Games.

The Mining Games started in 1978 to honor and remember the fallen miners of the Sunshine Mine disaster, and ensures that those miners will never be forgotten. The tradition continues as hundreds of students and alumni from around the world went to western Australia this year. Covid had previously delayed the Mining Games for the years of 2021 and 2022. Unsure the mining games would ever be hosted again overseas, the Western Australia School of Mines took it on themselves to organize and host a very successful international Mining Game.

The two UNR teams that attended the 45th games were the Mackay Muckers and the Lady Muckers. The lady muckers team is composed of five gals: Karlee Bolle, Gillian Hammons, Natalie Rubio, Katie Nicholes and Kayla Anderson. The Mackay Muckers team was composed of five men: Duncan Brown, Rafael Echeverria, Luke Andersen, Sean Morton and Tahmid Kawsar. All but one of the Lady Muckers had previously competed in a Mining Game, while everyone on Mackay Muckers was brand new to competing at the Mining Games. Through lots of training the whole team learned not only what each event was, but the techniques that take years to master.

Competition started with an opening dinner, the next day was officially training day, both the lady and Mackay Muckers learned the valuable ins and out of the WASM field and equipment.

The second day brought Co-Ed and Alumni competitions. Cheering on other teams, both teams watched and learned so many more valuable skills that would help them succeed once upon competing day for them. The Co-ed and Alumni was both the Muckers Day to compete in survey. The Lady and Mackay Muckers competed side by side in this quiet and perplex event.

On the third and final day, March 25, the men and women divisions started their competition day. The Mackay Muckers started the day off with a strong Hand Steel while the Lady Muckers started with Swede Saw. After a long day of hard work, cheering on other teams and cheering on one another the competition ended with both teams Mucking. The teams were lucky enough to be able to cheer on one another or compete side by side through the whole day.

That final day also hosted the closing banquet. Here the teams find out how they placed in both the individual event and overall competition. The Mackay Muckers held their own on all their events. Each of the Mackay team members were able to hit a personal best in at least one event each. The Mackay Muckers are proud of their personal progress as a team. This competition was a huge learning curve and the Mackay Muckers are more than thrilled with their accomplishments.

The Lady Muckers was pleasantly surprised with their results the closing banquet. The ladies were able to take third place in Survey, second place in Swede Saw and Mucking, and first place in Hand Steel, Track-stand, Gold Pan and Jackleg. Each first place comes with a traveling trophy that will be brought back to the 46th games. Each of the young women took home belt buckles in the bronze, silver and gold style representing their placement in the events. Overall, the Lady Muckers took first place in the Womens division, making the Lady Muckers the number 1 womens for the 45th Annual Intercollegiate Mining Games. They were also celebrated for having the fastest Gold Pan time of all competing teams.

The Mackay Muckers would like to thank the Western Australian School of Mines for hosting the 45th games. We would also like to thank Dr. Dan Taylor, Greg Stokes, Marc Leedy, Annie Huhta, John Leland and many others for donating their time and equipment to the Mackay Mucker. The Muckers would like to congratulate every school that was able to attend this years games. A huge congratulations to WASM B mens team, Colorado Co-Ed team and the Alluminati Alumni team who received first in their divisions.

Next years competition will be hosted in Butte, Montana. With the hopes of sending a womens and mens team once again the Mackay Muckers are already looking for organizations to help with donating safety equipment, tools, and funds for travel and practices. The Mackay Muckers will host the second annual Mackay day Mining Competition in the coming fall. If you have any questions for the Mackay Muckers, you are more than welcome to reach out to the team on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn or by emailing the Mackay Muckers directly at mackaymucker@gmail.com.
One of the many bills that made it out of committee during a busy week in the Nevada Legislature has the potential to have big impacts on the states waters and the mining industry in the years ahead if it gets passed into law.

Assembly Bill 313 would place new requirements on mines to backfill their open pits as part of the reclamation process to prevent the formation of pit lakes.

This bill is really about the responsibility to water, Assemblywoman Sarah Peters, the sponsor of the bill, said at the end of a three-hour hearing on April 10. This is about striking a balance between the cost to our future and the cost to our economy.

Peters, a Democrat assembly member for District 24, which covers a portion of Reno, is an environmental engineer.

During a work session on April 12, the Assembly Committee on Natural Resources approved the bill to send it out of committee with a vote of eight in favor and four against. The committee members who voted in opposition to the bill were Rich DeLong, Bert Gurr, Alexis Hansen and Toby Yurek.

Given the testimony we had  both from the opposition as well as the neutral testimony from NDEP of the uncertainty that this bill would bring to the regulatory process for permitting mines in Nevada, I find it quite ironic that were doing this the day after a floor speech by our senior U.S. Senator (Catherine Cortez Masto) promoting Nevada as the best jurisdiction for mining, DeLong said before voting against the bill.

Some of the committee members who voted in favor said they feel the bill still needs some more work.

I continue to have concerns, and I have voiced those concerns to both sides, said Natha Anderson, the vice chair of the committee. And I look forward to possible solutions as this moves forward.

I agree that we have some additional work to do here, and Im excited to be able to continue that effort alongside the bill sponsor as we work on this, said committee member Tracy Brown-May.

I appreciate this move towards preserving our water and relying on science and I think there are some exciting things on the horizon for us as far as conservation and balancing our mining needs, said committee member Selena La Rue Hatch.

Early amendments

The bill as originally proposed would have required current open pits to make plans for backfilling during reclamation, and would not have allowed the costs of backfilling to be taken into consideration in allowing a backfill exemption. These two parts of the bill have been amended.

As much as wed love to see the backfill of historic pits that are potentially degrading and using unnecessary amounts of water, we will remove those requirements, Peters said during the hearing.

A revision made prior to the committee vote on the bill pushed the backfill requirements further into the future, saying the requirements will apply to projects whose applications are submitted after Jan. 1, 2025.

The bill now allows exemptions to the backfill requirements if the mining company can show that backfilling is not technically feasible, or if backfilling would make the mine unprofitable.

Some people involved with the mining industry as well as members of the natural resources committee expressed concerns about having state agencies judge the acceptable profitability level of a mine.

During the hearing on AB 313, John Hadder, the director of Great Basin Resource Watch, talked about pit lakes and their effects and the reasons for introducing the bill.

The written testimony provided by GBRW said, There are two central goals of AB 313: (1) For mine reclamation to include water systems  both surface water and groundwater. AB 313 is calling on the legislature acting on behalf of the people of Nevada to require mining operations to restore waters systems to as close as possible to a pre-mining state; and (2) To provide legislative direction that the creation of mining pit lakes is to be avoided as possible.

At an open pit mine that goes below the water table, after mining ends and dewatering stops, groundwater can flow into the pit over the course of many years. Water evaporates from the pit, and the water in the pit can become lower quality than the surrounding groundwater.

AB 313 would require open pits to be backfilled when feasible to a level that would prevent the formation of a pit lake and would prevent the area from becoming a wetland.

450 billion gallons

A 2022 report on pit lakes from GBRW lists 13 in Nevada that have a combined total volume of about 450 billion gallons of water. The report estimates that about 4.3 billion gallons of water evaporates from these pit lakes each year.

The AB 313 testimony provided by GBRW said that data from the Nevada Department of Environmental Protection identifies 87 open pit/surface mines in Nevada, and 38 of those are or are predicted to become pit lakes. Eight of those pit lakes are currently predicted to exceed 200 acres, and 21 are currently predicted to be less than 25 acres.

Hadder commented that when GBRW appealed the Water Pollution Control Permit for the Mt. Hope molybdenum mine in 2019, members of the Nevada State Environmental Commission expressed concerns about pit lakes.

These gigantic pit lakes scare me, Commission Chairman Jim Gans said at the time. My opinion is these pit lakes  or at least a lot of them  have been disasters.

Im certainly concerned about pit lakes and water quality standards in this state, Commissioner Tom Porta said.

Hadder pointed out that Porta said at that time that he would encourage discussions about the issue of pit lake water quality to take place at the legislative level.

During the hearing on AB 313, DeLong said that California has a requirement that during mining reclamation the area has to be returned to its original contours, including the area where there has been an open pit, while other states in the region, including Idaho, Utah and Arizona, do not have pit backfill requirements.

Hadder said Colorado addresses minings impacts on water with a rule saying, Disturbances to the prevailing hydrologic balance of the affected land and of the surrounding area and to the quantity or quality of water in surface and groundwater systems both during and after the mining operation and during reclamation shall be minimized.

Public comment

During the public comment portion of the hearing on AB 313, many Nevada residents talked about the importance of protecting the waters of Nevada for the people of Nevada and future generations.

Mining pit lakes are not only a toxic legacy left by the industry, but they unnecessarily waste fresh water and leave communities to suffer the consequences, all while people across the state are concerned about dwindling water, said Sarah Wochele, mining justice organizer at the Progressive Leadership Alliance of Nevada.

This bill is not about stopping mining, said Patrick Donnelly, Great Basin director with the Center for Biological Diversity. Its about regulating a very specific environmental impact inherent to open pit mining below the water table.

In effect, the people of Nevada are subsidizing the mining industry right now with the water of Nevada. The water of Nevada is impacted by mining, and this is effectively a subsidy to industry.

If a mine, the only way it can be profitable is by leaving a mess for future generations, then maybe thats not a viable mine, Donnelly said.

Many people involved with the mining industry, on the other hand, said that although they appreciate the amendments that have been made to AB 313, the requirements in the bill still could have a range of negative impacts on the mining industry in Nevada without actually having positive impacts on the environment or the waters of the state.

Industry viewpoints

Greg Gibson, vice president of operations, Americas for SSR Mining, said his company shares Peters belief that Nevadas water resources need to be protected.

The fact is, existing federal laws and state regulations already require mining companies to account for the impacts of pit lakes, Gibson said.

He said the amended bill will still potentially create new environmental problems and make new open pit mine development challenging, if not impossible.

The fact is every pit lake is like a fingerprint, Gibson said. Each has its own geological factors, and each requires careful analysis from regulators on a case-by-case basis.

I am an environmental engineer and an ecologist, and my role is to make sure that we mine responsibly, said Joel Donalson, head of permitting and environment for Nevada Gold Mines. I am also a father of four with a family that loves to spend time outdoors. Minings impact on the environment matters to me, but this bill will not protect the environment.

We already backfill pits where the science shows that it makes sense. We looked at the numbers to backfill our other open pits, and they are staggering. Three billion tons of rock hauled, 760 millions gallons of diesel burned, $7 billion in cost, 9 million tons of greenhouse gas emitted, and 25 billion gallons of water used.

The material needed to backfill is not even available because its been used in tailings storage facilities and heap leach pads.

Backfilling pits prevents expansion, Donalson said. We started the Gold Quarry pit in the 1980s with a five-year mine plan. Processing technology improved and gold prices increased, and we continue to mine that pit today. If we had to back fill it after five years, we would have sterilized the pit, ending the jobs of people who spent whole careers there.

This bill wont protect water quality or the public, but it will put Nevada mining companies out of business and irreparably harm the economy of our state and our local communities, Donalson said.

Nevadas regulatory scheme for mines requires a detailed analysis of the site specific geologic, environmental, and hydrologic characteristics at each mine, said Deborah Struhsacker of the Womens Mining Coalition. AB 313s universal pit lake backfilling mandate throws site specificity out the window.

Backfilling a mine pit once operations are complete seems like the right thing to do from an environmental standpoint, but it could lead to unintended negative environmental impacts, said Chantae Lessard, the head of community, government and tribal relations for Hudbay Minerals U.S. business unit.

Projects at risk

AB 313 puts proposed new mining projects in Nevada at risk, including Hudbays proposed Mason project located west of Yerington, Lessard said. Hudbay plans to spend approximately $2 billion to build this new copper mine and pay hundreds of millions in state and local taxes over the projects life.

The Mason Project would also create 500 good full-time jobs in an area with above average unemployment and very few similar opportunities for economic development, Lessard said.

While the economic impact of AB 313 on the Mason project is not yet clear, it could be significant enough to impact Hudbays development plans.

AB 313, if enacted, would essentially make mining in Nevada economically and environmentally infeasible, said Tim Dimock, general manager of the Coeur Rochester Mine. The text of the bill ignores decades of science, decades of regulatory oversight of pit lakes.

We should allow science, favorable modern mining practices and the comprehensive suite of state and federal regulations to guide how we create and maintain or backfill mine pits, Dimock said.

A blanket requirement to backfill pit lakes is not protective of the waters of the state, said Frederick Partey, chairman of the Nevada Mining Associations environmental committee and senior environmental manager at the KGHM Robinson Mine. Depending on the type of rock used to backfill a pit lake, metals could be released into solution and impact the waters of the state.

In an attempt to solve one problem, could you be creating others?

AB 313 would introduce an entirely new legal paradigm that projects will be subject to, and because the elements are not defined and the standards not set, the courts will have to make those decisions, Partey said. AB 313 places risks on the close to 40,000 jobs that the Nevada mining industry provides.

AB 313 as drafted would stop our plan of operations dead in its tracks and bankrupt our company, said Allison Anderson, community and government relations manager at i-80 Gold. AB 313 as amended is better than bankruptcy, but it creates redundancy and uncertainty for mining companies like ours doing business in Nevada.

Should this bill pass, it would create an extremely challenging mining climate in Nevada and lead to certain bankruptcies for many companies, Anderson said. This creates a scenario where the state may become the responsible party for reclamation and closure activities, and this is not the desired outcome for anyone.

We believe that the bill in either form will lose jobs in the state and will put additional pressure on our social services to make up that loss of revenue to those communities, said Paul Moradkhan, senior vice president of government affairs for the Vegas Chamber.

Jay Dixon, an engineering hydrologist who was representing Singatse Peak Services, said Singatse anticipates dewatering the Yerington mine to resume and deepen the pit, adding an essential domestic copper resource to support the green energy supply chain right here in Nevada.

Investments like this require regulatory certainty, and AB 313, even with the amendments, is anything but certain, Dixon said.

AB 313, if passed, modern mining reclamation of the Yerington mine will not occur, which means the community would continue to live with the standard of remediation instead of a comprehensive modern mine reclamation, and long-term post closure would continue to be the responsibility of the state and its taxpayers.

Nevada Department of Environmental Protection Administrator Jennifer Carr said that At this time, we dont believe that there is a necessity to create additional policy for reclaiming groundwater, because we already protect groundwater.

Mike Visher, the administrator for the Nevada Division of Minerals, commented that Any bill that negatively impacts interest in locatable, mineral exploration and development in Nevada will negatively impact our revenue and result in a decrease in the amount of abandoned mine lands work that gets performed.
His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, yesterday chaired the weekly Cabinet meeting at Gudaibiya Palace.

It called on both parties to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue to reach a peaceful solution that preserves Sudans security and stability and protects the interests of the Sudanese people.

The Bahrain Cabinet expressed concern over armed confrontations between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces.

The Cabinet extended its congratulations to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the citizens of Bahrain and Arab and Islamic countries on the occasion of Eid Al Fitr. It discussed several memorandums during the meeting, approving the following:

1. A memorandum submitted by the Civil Service Bureau regarding restructuring and developing the work of several government agencies to increase efficiency and improve performance.

2. A memorandum submitted by the Ministerial Committee for Legal and Legislative Affairs on the governments response to four proposals submitted by the Council of Representatives.

The Cabinet took note of the ministerial reports on the outcomes of the second meeting of the Bahraini-Qatari Follow-up Committee. This includes the restoration of diplomatic relations between Bahrain and Qatar in accordance with the United Nations Charter and the Vienna Treaty on Diplomatic Relations of 1961.

The Cabinet also reviewed the outcomes of the consultative meeting between the GCC countries, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, and the Republic of Iraq.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

Exhibition World Bahrain has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Vatel Bahrain Hospitality and Culinary Management School to provide mentorship and career guidance and opportunities to students in the hospitality sector.

The agreement, signed by the General Manager of Exhibition World Bahrain, Dr Debbie Kristiansen and Vatel Bahrains General Director, Shaikh Khaled bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, also aims at hosting speakers and attract mutually beneficial opportunities.

Dr Debbie Kristiansen, the General Manager of Exhibition World Bahrain, explained that the collaboration aims to educate and develop the skills of the next generation, particularly in the meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) industry in Bahrain.

Meanwhile, Shaikh Khaled bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, the General Director of Vatel Bahrain, stressed that the partnership would offer unique and qualitative opportunities in fields such as hospitality, tourism, events management, forums, and conferences.

Following the deal signing, Shaikh Khaled toured Exhibition World's various space configurations, including the Grand Hall, VIP majlis rooms, meeting rooms, and organizer's offices.
Marine conservation campaigners have lodged a complaint with police demanding that toxic dolphin meat be removed from sale in Japan, after a test showed a sample contained levels of mercury up to 100 times higher than the governments recommended safe level.

Action for Dolphins (AFD), a nonprofit based in Australia, filed the complaint with police in central Japan this month, amid expert warnings that regular consumption of dolphin meat could threaten the health of consumers.

AFD said recent testing at a laboratory in Japan revealed that one sample bought in the country  a portion of Rissos dolphin offal  exceeded the government-set regulatory limit of mercury by up to 97.5 times. A second package of Rissos dolphin offal showed mercury levels 80 times higher than the safe limit. ...continue reading
, Apr 18 ( Nikkei ) - With Japanese consumers hungry for post-pandemic entertainment, the country's leading producer of drone light shows has raised 100 million yen ($750,000) to expand and keep up with skyrocketing demand.

Droneshow Japan, which launched in 2020 in this city in Ishikawa prefecture, is a one-stop shop for its namesake events. Its 15 employees, mainly engineers in their early 20s, handle everything from drone and autopilot software development to putting on choreographed shows, complete with music. ...continue reading
DANBURY  A plan to build a seven-story apartment building and convert a Main Street office building into downtown housing got the environmental green light from the citys wetlands commission  on four conditions.

The approval by the citys wetlands commission last week of the 208-apartment project for south Main Street sets up a public hearing on Wednesday before the citys Planning Commission. At the meeting, consultants for the developer will answer questions about traffic and other neighborhood impacts.

Known as The Legacy on Main, the developer plans to retrofit the five-story office building at 30 Main St. into 48 apartments and to build a 160-unit apartment building in the parking lot, atop a three-level parking garage.

The urban housing project, which is the type of development encouraged in the citys recently adopted master plan for the next decade, represents the largest residential investment proposal in a central business district that has lagged behind the citys booming west side and busy commercial strips on the east end.

On the west side, for example, there are proposals for 400 apartments at The Summit office complex, and for 195 apartments at the former Crowne Plaza Hotel.

The first step for developers of The Legacy was to convince the citys environmental commission that the redevelopment of the 2.4-acre site at 30 Main St. would not degrade the nearby wetlands.

The citys health department determined last week in a three-page report that the project would not substantially diminish the natural capacity of the wetland  to support desirable biological life, prevent flooding, supply water, assimilate waste, facilitate drainage, provide groundwater recharge and/or provide recreation, open space or significant wildlife habitat.

The report recommends the wetland commission approve the project on four conditions, including that if application information submitted by the developer is subsequently proved to be false, incomplete or misleading, this permit may be modified, suspended or revoked, and the permittee may be subject to any other remedies or penalties provided by law.

I have no issues with the report, Ben Doto, an engineer representing the developer, said at a Environmental Impact Commission meeting April 12. Im here to answer any questions if anything were to come up with respect to it.

The staff has recommended a summary ruling with four conditions, said Bernie Gallo, the commission chair. Any remarks, any questions?

Before a unanimous vote to approve the project, a commission member asked whether anything else had changed.

No, responded Gallo.

Another condition of approval is that the developer is required to maintain sediment and erosion controls at the site in such an operable condition as to prevent the pollution of wetlands and watercourses, should the project get Planning Commission approval.

Elsewhere on Main Street, a 149-unit apartment complex is nearly complete at the site of the former News-Times headquarters, and there are two other residential proposals. One plan calls for 100 units of workforce housing as part of a larger redevelopment of the old Fairfield County Courthouse. The other plan calls for 79 affordable apartments atop a two-level garage behind the headquarters of the nonprofit Connecticut Institute for Communities.
DENVER  SSR Mining Inc. announced publication of its annual Sustainability Report that outlines the companys environmental, social and governance practices, including at its Marigold Gold Mine in Nevada.

Our fifth annual ESG and Sustainability Report represents another step in SSR Minings continued effort to operate responsibly and sustainably while maximizing the benefits to a stakeholders, said Rod Antal, president and chief executive officer.

He said in the April 14 announcement that the report demonstrates our commitment to transparency and accountability and the efforts we take to generate value for our people and investors while staying true to ESG principles. As we look to 2023, we enter the year with hope and optimism for whats ahead as we seek to ensure a lasting positive legacy for our company and operations.

Along with Marigold, the companys operations include Copler in Turkey, Seabee in Canada, and Puna in Argentina, and the Sustainability Report for 2022 looks at steps taken at each mine, including continuing to focus on safety. All operations are completing specific safety plans this year, SSR reported.

The just-released report also highlights SSR Minings global water strategy and states that plans are underway for each asset to implement water management plans in 2023, and the companys commitment to net zero operational greenhouse emissions by 2050.

SSR states that the focus in 2023 will be to refine the identified options for short-term targets, as well as SSR Minings broader road map of strategic actions to help reduce the companys carbon footprint and improve energy management.

Mercury at Marigold Mine at Valmy is also covered in the report.

SSR Mining writes that mercury, which if spilled or not handled correctly can cause serious harm to the environment and even result in loss of life, is naturally present at the mine and can be mobilized during processing.

To safeguard against these risks, we have strict handling and packing procedures in place for the transport of mercury, the report states.

The company also writes that we have one mercury retort in our processing plant with a condenser to remove large particulate mercury in the exhaust stream before it goes to the scrubber. We use activated carbon in the gold recovery process to recover gold that has been dissolved in the cyanide solution; the gold adsorbs onto the carbon prior to being stripped from the carbon via a hot stripping liquid. The carbon also adsorbs mercury, if it is present in the solution.

Marigold has two sulfur impregnated carbon scrubbers to collect mercury, and these scrubbers are designed to perform in line with state law, SSR Mining states, reporting that the company disposes elemental mercury and mercury-contaminated waste at licensed waste facilities.

The gold mine disposes of roughly one metric ton of elemental mercury every two years, and last year safely disposed of more than 13.5 metric tons of mercury-contaminated waste, according to the report.

The report also mentioned that Marigold has various management plans in place for protecting biodiversity, including bird and bat conservation, eagle management and noxious weed management, and the mine had reclamation requirements, including the Trenton Canyon and Buffalo Valley properties, of roughly $49.5 million.

On the social side, Marigold provides support to the University of Nevada, Reno and has been contributing to the university through mine royalties since 2012. The mine also provided 38 scholarships in 2022 to dependents of Marigold employees and students from area communities.

Through the Colorado School of Mines, we provide an annual Women in Mining scholarship to help a student advance her career, the report also says.

Companywide, SSR Minings Integrated Management System for policies, standards and procedures across the key areas of safety and health, community relations and the environment blends will be embedded into all areas of operation, the report additionally states.

The report is available on the companys website at: www.ssrmining.com.
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JACKSON, Miss. (AP)  A Mississippi sheriff says in a new court filing that there's no point in serving an arrest warrant on a white woman in the 1955 kidnapping that led to the lynching of Black teenager Emmett Till because last year a grand jury decided not to indict the woman.

Till's kidnapping and killing became a catalyst for the civil rights movement when his mother insisted on an open-casket funeral in their hometown of Chicago after his brutalized body was pulled from a river in Mississippi. Jet magazine published photos.

The Mississippi arrest warrant for Mrs. Roy Bryant was issued shortly after Till's death but was never served on the white woman who has since remarried and is now known as Carolyn Bryant Donham.

Last June, a team doing research at the courthouse in Leflore County, Mississippi, found the unserved warrant. In July, the office of Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch said there was no new evidence to pursue a criminal case against Donham. In August, a district attorney said a Leflore County grand jury declined to indict Donham.

Since the Grand Jury found no probable cause to indict Donham on the charges of kidnapping and manslaughter, there is no probable cause to support the 1955 Arrest Warrant, Charles J. Swayze III, an attorney for Leflore County Sheriff Ricky Banks, wrote in court papers filed Thursday.

Till's cousin Priscilla Sterling filed a federal lawsuit against Banks on Feb. 7, seeking to compel him to serve the 1955 warrant on Donham. In the response Thursday, Swayze asked a judge to dismiss the suit.

The Associated Press left a phone message Tuesday for one of Sterling's attorneys, seeking comment about the sheriff's court filing.

Till traveled from Chicago to visit relatives in Mississippi in August 1955. Donham accused him of making improper advances on her at a grocery store in the small community of Money. Wheeler Parker, a cousin of Till who was there, has said 14-year-old Till whistled at the woman  an act that flew in the face of Mississippis racist social codes of the era.

Evidence indicates a woman, possibly Donham, identified Till to her then-husband Roy Bryant and his half-brother J.W. Milam, who killed the teenager. The arrest warrant against Donham was publicized in 1955, but the Leflore County sheriff at the time, George Smith, told reporters that he did not want to bother the woman since she was raising two young children.

Weeks after Tills body was found, Roy Bryant and Milam were tried for murder and acquitted by an all-white jury. Months later, the men confessed in a paid interview with Look magazine.

Banks has been sheriff since 1980. In the court filing Thursday, Swayze wrote that Sterling's lawsuit shows no factual allegation of misconduct by Banks.

Donham, now in her late 80s, has lived in North Carolina and Kentucky in recent years. She has not commented publicly on calls for her prosecution. The U.S. Justice Department announced in December 2021 that it had ended its latest investigation into the lynching of Till, without bringing charges against anyone.
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BOISE, Idaho (AP)  The only surviving child of a woman charged in the murders of her two youngest children and a romantic rival confronted his mother about his siblings deaths in an emotional phone call played for jurors on Tuesday in a trial that has touched on claims of evil spirits, zombie children and an additional murder charge in another state.

Prosecutors played the call shortly after Colby Ryan, Lori Vallow Daybell's oldest child, took the stand in the bizarre triple murder case in Idaho. The call was made after the bodies of Ryan's siblings, Joshua JJ Vallow and Tylee Ryan, were found buried in an eastern Idaho yard in 2020, and after Vallow Daybell was jailed in connection with the crime.

It starts with Ryan asking his mom if she thought she could keep hiding from him.

Im not hiding, why would you think Im hiding? Vallow Daybell responds.

Probably because you murdered my siblings! Maybe you should understand, Ryan continued, before his mother interrupted:

I didnt. Im sorry you feel that way, she said.

The call continued for several minutes, with Vallow Daybell insisting that Ryan cant know what happened because he wasnt there, but that JJ and Tylee were happy and all would become clear in the afterlife.

But Ryan said his mother lied to him multiple times while his brother and sister were missing, with someone even sending him texts from his sister's phone as if they were from Tylee.

To know that theyre gone, and you knew! And my phone is being texted by my little sister, whos not even alive! Ryan said, his voice rising. My poor brother, who is the sweetest little kid ever  for what purpose? You tell me this is Gods will: For my whole family, including my stepfather, to be dead.

Prosecutors say Vallow Daybell and her fifth husband, Chad Daybell, espoused strange doomsday-focused beliefs involving demonic possession and zombies to further their alleged plan to kill the kids and his previous wife Tammy Daybell. They are also accused of collecting life insurance money and nearly $6,000 a month from the kids social security and survivor benefits due to the deaths of their fathers: Tylee's father Joe Ryan died in 2018 and JJ's father Charles Vallow died in 2019.

JJ was 7 years old and Tylee was a few days shy of her 17th birthday when the kids were last seen alive in September of 2019, and their bodies were found buried in Chad Daybell's yard the following June. Tammy Daybell died in October of 2019  just two weeks before Vallow Daybell and Chad Daybell married  and an autopsy later determined she had been asphyxiated.

Both have pleaded not guilty to murder, conspiracy and grand theft charges, and they are being tried separately. Daybells trial is still months away.

Vallow Daybell has also been charged in Arizona in connection with the the death of her fourth husband, Charles Vallow.

He was shot and killed by Vallow Daybell's brother, Alex Cox, outside of his Phoenix-area home in July of 2019. Cox told police the shooting was in self defense, and was never charged in the case because he died of natural causes later that year. Vallow Daybell has not yet had the opportunity to enter a plea in the Arizona case.

Earlier in the trial, former friends of Vallow Daybell told jurors about the couple's purported spiritual beliefs, which included the idea that evil spirits could take over a person's body, forcing the person's soul out and turning them into a zombie. The only way to get rid of the evil spirit was to kill the body, former friend Melanie Gibb told jurors.

Vallow Daybell called JJ and Tylee zombies several times before they died, Gibb told investigators.

The recorded phone call seemed to allude to some of Vallow Daybell's beliefs, with Ryan telling his mother he was praying for her and warning her against blasphemy.

In response, Vallow Daybell laughed.

I love you, I always will. One day you will see and one day you will understand, Vallow Daybell told her son in the call, and said his dead siblings were fine.

They love me and they are fine ... You can go ahead and judge me all day long, she said.

Ryan cried on the stand when prosecutors showed him photos of Tylee and JJ, and told jurors about how the text messages Tylee regularly sent him changed in tone and punctuation in the weeks after she first disappeared but before she was reported missing.

He also said Tylee was receiving social security benefits from her father Joe Ryan's 2018 death and would sometimes send him money, but after Tylee went missing the funds began coming from a different account under his mother's name.

Charles Vallow's death meant that JJ was also receiving Social Security benefits, a special agent with the Social Security Administration told jurors. Vallow Daybell never reported to the Social Security Administration that younger kids were missing or had died, Mark Saari said, though federal rules required her to do so.

The kids were receiving about $3,800 a month combined, and Vallow Daybell was also receiving roughly $1,900 a month in benefits following Charles Vallow's death, Saari said.

The agency stopped all the payments in January of 2020 because the kids were missing, he said.
University of Connecticut students are no longer required to be vaccinated against COVID-19, after the school's Board of Trustees voted Wednesday to repeal a vaccine policy that had been in place for nearly two years.

In a letter to the board ahead of Wednesday's meeting, UConn President Radenka Maric recommended an end to the policy, which mandated vaccines for all undergraduate and graduate students.
MADISON, Wis. (AP)  State and local governments in Wisconsin would not be allowed to ban gas-powered vehicles, snow blowers, lawnmowers and other machines under a pair of bills the Republican-controlled Assembly passed Tuesday along party lines.

The bills' GOP sponsors hope to outlaw measures similar to a law passed in California last year requiring that all new cars, trucks and SUVs sold in the state run on electricity or hydrogen by 2035. That decision left 17 states with vehicle emissions standards tied to California laws facing tough decisions on whether they would adopt the same ban on gasoline-fueled vehicles.

Wisconsin was not among those states. But in a message to lawmakers seeking cosponsors, the Republican authors of the Wisconsin bills stoked fears of runaway state bureaucrats and excessive local governments taking matters into their own hands to ban gas engines.

This just protects consumer choice, Rep. Ellen Schutt, who co-authored the bills, said in a news conference before the vote.

But Democrats said they had no plans to pursue a gas-engine ban in Wisconsin and accused the bill sponsors of fear-mongering. These are bills that are not necessary. We should not be wasting our time on them, Democratic Rep. Christine Sinicki said.

Gas stations and fossil fuel industry groups such as Kwik Trip and the American Petroleum Institute have thrown their support behind the measures. Meanwhile, environmental advocates and the American Lung Association oppose them.

The measures still need approval from the Senate and from Democratic Gov. Tony Evers, who is likely to veto them. Evers has been at odds with Republicans when pushing to use state money to build out electric vehicle charging stations.

The governor's spokesperson, Britt Cudaback, did not immediately respond to an email Monday asking whether he would veto the measures. But at an event in Milwaukee on Tuesday, Evers said he didn't believe a ban on gas engines was necessary for the state to slowly transition to using electric vehicles.

___

Harm Venhuizen is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. Follow Venhuizen on Twitter.
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BRASILIA, Brazil (AP)  Brazils government announced efforts Tuesday to spend more on securing schools and crack down on the incitement of violence as officials seek to curb a wave of fatal school attacks.

The array of measures were discussed at a meeting convened by President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in the capital, Brasilia, among ministers, governors and mayors.

The governments effort to shore up school security began earlier this month after a man killed four children at a day care center in the southern state of Santa Catarina. Three other incidents occurred in the preceding months of 2023.

This is a moment for us all to unite, independent of political, partisan or ideological issues, Education Minister Camilo Santana said at the opening of the event, attended by all but one of Brazil's 27 governors and dozens of mayors.

Whats at stake is the lives of kids and adolescents in our country," Santana said.

Santana announced 3.12 billion reais ($625 million) in funding for schools to reinforce security and infrastructure, plus tens of millions more for treating mental health and training teachers in prevention.

The government has also created an online program to teach safety recommendations to school administrators and teachers, a task force for monitoring of social media and hotlines to report suspicious activity.

The latter actions, in particular, have contributed to a crackdown by the justice ministry and state police forces against adults and minors suspected of inciting violence in schools. Over the past 10 days, 225 people have been arrested or detained, according to Justice Minister Flavio Dino, adding that his ministry's website received more than 7,000 reports in the same period.

The number of arrests and detentions allows us to see that these arent isolated cases, and shows that bad actors use online platforms to recruit our youth for evil, Dino said.

School violence in Brazil had been uncommon, but has grown increasingly frequent in recent years. From 2000 to 2022, 16 attacks or violent episodes happened in schools, four of them in the second half of last year, according to a report from researchers led by Daniel Cara, an education professor at the University of Sao Paulo.

That's why we are here: to cut off this dangerous ascent of violence, of hatred, Dino said.

At the meeting, regulation of social media was a recurring proposal to prevent further incidents, particularly holding platforms responsible for failing to remove content that incites violence. Dino noted that some companies that initially resisted compliance with takedown requests have come around and, in the past 10 days, removed or suspended more than 750 profiles.

Alexandre de Moraes, a Supreme Court justice who is also president of the electoral authority, compared violent comments shared on social media to fake news during last year's presidential race, as well as the antidemocratic speech that led to an uprising in the capital on Jan. 8, with supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro trashing government buildings.

Efforts to clamp down on antidemocratic speech last year often followed the contours of Brazil's political divide, and so prompted allegations of repression of free speech. De Moraes referred to social media as a no-mans land where users can still get away with actions and speech that are illegal in real life, and said regulation is needed. Lula voiced his support for regulation, too.

Either we have the courage to discuss the difference between freedom of expression and stupidity, or we won't get very far, Lula said, speaking after everyone else at the meeting.

Lula's administration since January has adopted measures to tighten gun control, reversing the push by Bolsonaro to facilitate access. However, Lula didn't touch on the issue Tuesday, nor did others  perhaps because it is increasingly a political hot button, or because knives have been more commonly used in Brazilian school attacks.

Nor did Lula support schools resorting to walls, metal detectors or inspections of children's backpacks. Instead, he focused on the need for stronger parental education and resources for mental health.

We are not going to transform our schools into a maximum security prison, which will not work. There is no money for that, and it is not politically correct, humanely correct or socially correct, Lula said.

If we try to do that, we are demonstrating that we aren't very useful, because we don't know how to resolve the real problem.
OTTAWA, ON, April 13, 2023 /CNW/ - We want to help you get the benefits and credits you are entitled to. To make sure you continue getting your benefit and credit payments, you, and your spouse or common-law partner (if applicable), need to file your taxes. This is true even if your income is tax exempt under section 87 of the Indian Act or you had no income at all. Here are a few tips to help you.

Canada Dental Benefit

Applications for the new temporary Canada Dental Benefit opened on December 1, 2022. Your family could be eligible if you have children under 12 years old and your adjusted family net income is less than $90,000 per year.

The Canada Dental Benefit provides financial support for dental care provided to children under 12 years old if they do not have access to private dental insurance. If your child is already covered under another government dental program (like the Non-Insured Health Benefits program) they may also be eligible if not all dental care costs are paid by that program. Your family can apply for a payment for each eligible child.

COVID-19 benefits and your return

The COVID-19 benefits are generally taxable. Any amounts you received in 2022 must be reported on your 2022 income tax and benefit return unless some or all of the amounts are exempt from tax under section 87 of the Indian Act.

If you received the Canada Recovery Benefit, the Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit, the Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit, or the Canada Workers Lockdown Benefit in 2022, 10% tax was withheld when you received it. Since these benefits are taxable, there is a chance that you may owe tax or be entitled to a refund when you file your return. This will depend on your personal circumstances, the type of COVID-19 benefits you received, and your other sources of income, deductions and credits.

If you are registered under the Indian Act or entitled to be registered under the Indian Act and some/all of your income is exempt from tax under section 87 of the Indian Act, you may be able to get a refund for some or all of the taxes withheld from your 2022 payments once you file your 2022 return.

If you received COVID-19 benefits in 2022, you will receive a T4A slip. You will receive this slip by mail and electronically through My Account. Residents of Quebec will receive both a T4A and RL-1 slip.

Also, if you received any COVID-19 benefits in 2020 or 2021 and didn't file your taxes for those years, it's not too late! Your tax return helps us determine if you should get a refund for part or all of the tax that was withheld on payments you received. Please include any T4A slips for your emergency benefits if you have them.

The CRA is reviewing taxpayer eligibility for COVID-19 benefits. If you received emergency benefits, we may contact you as part of that effort to confirm your eligibility. If we cannot confirm your eligibility, the ineligible amounts you received will have to be repaid to the CRA.

If you received a repayment letter but cannot pay an existing debt in full, we have flexible payment arrangements that may allow you to pay your debt over a longer period of time based on your ability to pay. If you are unable to pay the CRA back right away, visit the following links for information on Collection of individual COVID-19 benefits issued by the CRA or Collection of the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) issued by Service Canada to learn more.

COVID-19 benefits repayments

If you received a letter from the CRA or Employment and Social Development Canada, please follow the instructions provided. We understand that receiving a letter from the CRA or contacting us can be stressful. If there is something in your letter that is not clear, or if there is a question you cannot answer, please call us at the general inquiries number below for more information. The letter you have received will also provide a phone number where you can reach us. We appreciate that everyone's situation is different, and we are here to help.

Please note: The CRA does not charge interest on COVID-19 benefit debts. Also, the CRA will not deduct your Canada child benefit payments to pay debts related to the COVID-19 Canada Emergency or Recovery Benefit payments.

Filing your taxes

Reporting your income helps us determine what benefits and credits you could receive. You can choose to report the part of your income that is exempt from tax on Form T90, Income Exempt From Tax Under the Indian Act . This information lets us determine your Canada training credit limit, your Canada workers benefit, and calculate your family's provincial or territorial benefits.

If you are First Nations, Inuit, or Metis (regardless of status, membership, or community residency), you may be able to use the "Simple File: Let Us Help You Get Your Benefits!" credit and benefit short return form to file your taxes. It is only available on paper through band council offices, friendship centres, CRA officers, or community representatives, and cannot be downloaded. Please contact the resource most accessible to you or visit the Taxes and benefits for Indigenous peoples page to see if you meet the eligibility criteria to use these forms.

Working from home: Income tax exemption

Many people experienced work differently during the COVID-19 pandemic. If you were required to work from your home located on a reserve, your employment income could now be fully or partially exempt from tax under section 87 of the Indian Act. To find out if your income is exempt, visit Indian Act Exemption for Employment Income Guidelines .

You may also be eligible to claim home office expenses .

If you were required to work off-reserve as a result of COVID-19 workplace restrictions, it may have impacted your tax exemption. To find out if your income is still exempt visit CRA and COVID-19  Indigenous income tax issues .

Be sure to inform your employer if your income is tax-exempt. They will need to complete a TD1-IN Determination of Exemption of an Indian's Employment Income form and issue your T4 slip accordingly. If you have questions about your situation, visit Information on the tax exemption under section 87 of the Indian Act .

Northern residents

If you permanently lived in a prescribed zone for a period of at least six consecutive months beginning or ending in the tax year, you may be able to claim the northern residents deductions. The CRA also recently launched the simplified northern residents travel deduction , a pilot project to make it easier for northern residents to determine lowest return airfare, one of the three amounts required to claim the travel deduction come tax time. Visit our page on Northern residents for the most up-to-date information on these deductions.

Help for you and your family

There are several benefits and credits available to offer financial support to you and your family. The Canada child benefit, the GST/HST credit, and the Canada workers benefit are some examples. Find out if you are eligible by reading our guide Benefits and credits: Information for Indigenous peoples .

To get the benefits or credits you are entitled to, including related provincial & territorial credits, you and your spouse or common-law partner (if applicable) need to file your taxes on time each year. This is because the CRA uses the information from your tax return to determine if you are entitled to these benefits and credits.

Get free tax help

The CRA's Community Volunteer Income Tax Program works in collaboration with community organizations to set up free volunteer-based tax preparation clinics for individuals with a modest income and simple tax situation. These clinics help eligible individuals file their tax returns in order to access the benefits and credits designed to support them. This service is offered by videoconference, telephone, or via document drop-off arrangement. To learn if you're eligible or to find a tax clinic near you, go to canada.ca/taxes-help . You can also contact your band office or friendship centre for information on free tax clinics offered in your community.

We are here to help

The CRA understands that everyone's situation is unique and that many taxpayers are still experiencing financial strain. If you received a repayment letter but cannot pay an existing debt in full, payment arrangement options are being expanded. These options are designed to give Canadians more time and flexibility based on their current situation.

For more information on how to pay the CRA, visit canada.ca/payments .

Other resources

Benefits and credits Factsheet: Indigenous peoples (available in 16 languages)

Telephone numbers for individuals and businesses

General enquiries: 1-800-959-8281

General enquiries for residents of the territories: 1-866-426-1527

Business enquiries: 1-800-959-5525

Your may also visit the Contact the Canada Revenue Agency webpage for more information.

Contacts

Media Relations

Canada Revenue Agency

613-948-8366

[email protected]

Stay connected

Follow the CRA on Facebook

Follow the CRA on Twitter  @CanRevAgency

Follow the CRA on LinkedIn

Follow the CRA on Instagram

Subscribe to a CRA electronic mailing list

Add our RSS feeds to your feed reader

to your feed reader You can also watch our tax-related videos on YouTube

SOURCE Canada Revenue Agency
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WESTPORT  Police arrested a New Haven man Saturday wanted on a domestic violence charge out of Missouri after he crashed a stolen car on the Merritt Parkway and fled into the woods, police said.

A little before 8:35 a.m., state troopers were called to the northbound side of Route 15 near Exit 42 in Westport after a reported motor vehicle crash, state police said.

"Responding troopers were advised that the operator of an involved vehicle had fled on foot into a wooded area, possibly carrying a gun," state police said in a news release.

State police said Westport police stopped a man nearby on Highland Road. He was identified as 19-year-old George Vargas, of New Haven.

State police said Vargas at first gave them a fake name, but he was later identified.

"During a search for possible concealed weapons, troopers discovered that Vargas was in possession of a black taser-type device, which was secured and collected as evidence," state police said. "When asked, Vargas explained to troopers that he had not been carrying a gun when he ran into the woods."

Investigators combed through the area, but no other weapons were found, state police said.

Police also learned through records that Vargas was wanted on a warrant from the Miller County Sheriff's Office in Missouri.

"The warrant was confirmed as valid and indicated that Vargas had failed to appear in court" for third-degree domestic assault, state police said.

Vargas was arrested and taken into custody. Police also discovered the car he had been driving had been reported stolen from the University of Connecticut-Stamford campus that same day. State police said they notified UConn police the vehicle had been recovered.

Vargas was charged with being a fugitive from justice in addition to several other Connecticut charges. He was held on a total of $760,000 bond and taken to Bridgeport Correctional Center ahead of his arraignment Monday in state Superior Court in Stamford.

In addition to the fugitive charge, Vargas was also charged with larceny of a motor vehicle, criminal possession of an electronic defense weapon, interfering with an investigation and carrying weapons in a motor vehicle. He's also facing several motor vehicle charges, which were listed as failure to maintain a proper lane, evading responsibility and driving without a license.
INDIANAPOLIS (AP)  Indiana state Senators advanced a bill Tuesday that would make state funding available for teachers seeking firearms training, a move critics have said could increase the number of guns in school to the detriment of students.

The 42-8 vote comes after this past weekend's three-day National Rifle Association convention in Indianapolis, which fell on the second anniversary of a mass shooting in the city at a FedEx facility that killed nine people.

The House bill first advanced in February, amid teachers' objections that having additional guns in schools would worsen school safety. On Tuesday, two Democrats joined all Republican state Senators in voting for the bill.

Supporters have said the 40 hours of optional training would help teachers learn how to defend themselves and students if needed, especially in situations with an active shooter. State law currently allows school districts to permit teachers to be armed, but no training is mandated.

The proposed training would be voluntary and paid for by the state. Schools could also apply for such funding in the event of a school shooting to cover the costs of counseling for students, teachers and other school employees, the bill states.

Bill sponsor Republican Sen. Travis Holdman said before Tuesdays vote that he wished the training was mandatory, but we cant get that as a General Assembly, because I have tried that for the last number of years.

Efforts by Indiana lawmakers to offer additional training failed in recent years amid opposition from both gun-rights advocates, who said training mandates would overstep local control, and gun-control proponents, who argued against steps they see as arming teachers.

How is 40 hours of training going to prepare you to shoot a kid in your classroom? Democrat Sen. Andrea Hunley questioned on Tuesday. This is not going to stop school shootings.

Over the weekend, thousands of the NRAs most active members gathered at the downtown Indianapolis convention center. Speaking before a cheering crowd Friday, former President Donald Trump called to arm teachers.

The event also took place after recent mass shootings at a school in Nashville and a bank in Louisville, Kentucky  and on the same day that a shooting erupted at an Alabama teenagers birthday party. Last years NRA convention followed the massacre at a school in Uvalde, Texas.

In the previous legislative session, Indiana lawmakers repealed a permit requirement for those carrying a gun in public. All residents age 18 or older  except those with a felony conviction, who face a restraining order or have a dangerous mental illness  can carry a handgun in public.

That bill faced opposition from the Indiana police superintendent and several statewide law enforcement groups, who said eliminating the permit system would endanger officers by stripping them of a screening tool for quickly identifying dangerous people.

___

Arleigh Rodgers is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues. Follow her on Twitter at https://twitter.com/arleighrodgers
Elko County is slated to receive $33,000 through the federal Rural Schools Program, the USDA announced last week.

Sen. Jacky Rosen helped reauthorize and secure funding for the program, which will go toward supporting schools and maintaining roads, as well as providing counties with reimbursements for emergency services on national forests and the development of community wildfire protection plans.

Secure Rural Schools is a critical program that helps provide essential funding for counties across rural Nevada, said Rosen. Im proud to have helped rural counties in Nevada receive more than $3 million from this program to support local schools, bolster emergency services, and improve wildland fire management. Ill continue working to ensure communities like Elko get a fair share of federal funding.

Overall, Nevada will receive more than $3.4 million out of the total $228 million reauthorized by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

The Forest Service retains some of the funding to support projects that improve forest conditions and support jobs in rural communities. Resource advisory committees made up of residents representing varied interests and areas of expertise review and recommend the projects that meet their local needs, according to the USDA.
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NEW HAVEN  Madeline Negron will be the new superintendent of New Haven Public Schools, succeeding retiring Superintendent of Schools Iline Tracey, according to Board of Education member Darnell Goldson, who is a member of the board search committee.

Negron is a former New Haven Public Schools director of education and the current Hartford Public Schools acting deputy superintendent of academics and school leadership. She is one of three finalists from what previously were 31 candidates to succeed Tracey, who will retire at the end of the current academic year.

Negron would be the first Latino schools superintendent in New Haven. She did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

"The final decision was made probably last Monday or Tuesday" after two meetings over several days, Goldson said. "We had a meeting where we were trying to finalize ... What we wanted to do was walk out of the room with a unanimous consensus," but "we couldn't actually get there. ... So we came back and met again last Monday or Tuesday and it came to a consensus. The only reason why we didn't announce it last week was because the students and the teachers were on vacation."

The full board was expected to hold a special meeting Wednesday to vote on a contract negotiated between Negron and a board attorney, Goldson said. The hybrid meeting will be at Barack H. Obama Magnet University School, 69 Farnham Ave., as well as on Zoom at https://bit.ly/3mMaaZq.

The other finalists were Viviana Conner, New Haven Public Schools' assistant superintendent of instructional leadership and school improvement, and Warren Morgan, chief academic officer of the Indianapolis school system.

Neither Board of Education President Yesenia Rivera, Vice President Matt Wilcox nor Mayor Justin Elicker, who is a member of the board, would confirm the choice Tuesday.

"The board will consider the recommendation of the superintendent search committee during a special public meeting on Wednesday," said Rivera. "We will introduce the candidate to the public at that meeting.

"We want to honor the process that has included input from many members of the community, including teachers, students, parents and others," Rivera said.

"We all agreed to a process and a timeline and I'm sticking to it," said Wilcox. "I have no comment at this time."

Elicker said he would wait until the choice was formally announced to comment, but said, "there was a very extensive process to identify the best candidate. It included input from many different stakeholders" and "it was a hard decision because there were a number of good finalists, but I'm really excited about the direction that we're headed in.

"I'm excited that the new superintendent will build on the work that Dr. Tracey and her team did to help us through the pandemic," Elicker said. "She will bring new energy and enthusiasm" and "it will be a time for us to come together" and jointly work to move the district forward."

Goldson said that during the deliberations, Negron "was not a shoe-in," despite what some people have suggested.

As for her assets, "I think she has a combination of a lot of things," Goldson said. "She's worked in some big districts like New Haven and Hartford. She has experience working in smaller districts," and she has worked as everything from a teacher to a principal to an administrators, he said.

"What probably was the least important thing to us was that this district is moving to a majority Latino district, and she being a Latina with all the other prerequisites just made it a no-brainer," Goldson said.

He said he's hoping the new superintendent helps New Haven Public Schools improve the quality of its education.

"The one thing I'm disappointed about my eight years on the board is that academic achievement has not improved," Goldson said.
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Two Iowa teenagers admitted helping ambush and kill their high school Spanish teacher who was beaten to death in a park with a baseball bat. Both pleaded guilty Tuesday to first degree murder.

Prosecutors said Willard Miller and Jeremy Goodale carried out the 2021 attack on Nohema Graber because of a bad grade she had given Miller. The two were 16 at the time.

Evidence shows both Miller and Goodale struck the 66-year-old teacher while she was taking her regular after-school walk, prosecutors say. Miller admitted helping plan and carry out the killing but denied ever hitting Graber. Goodale testified that Miller initiated the plan to kill Graber and each of them struck her.

The Fairfield High School teacher's body was found hidden in the park under a tarp, wheelbarrow and railroad ties. The town of Fairfield is home to some 9,400 people and is around 100 miles (160 kilometers) southeast of Des Moines.

As part of an agreement with Miller, prosecutors will recommend a sentence between 30 years and life in prison, with the possibility of parole. For Goodale, prosecutors said they'll recommend a sentence between 25 years and life with the possibility of parole.

Goodale testified that they planned the killing for about two weeks, after Miller recruited him to help. Goodale had previously agreed to testify against Miller at his trial, which was expected to begin later this week.

"On Nov. 2 of 2021, I met Willard Miller at Chautauqua Park, and I understood that he had intent to kill Mrs. Graber, Goodale said as he entered his plea. He said Miller brought a bat among other supplies to go through with the murder.

After he had struck Nohema Graber, he then moved her off of the trail where I then struck her and she died as a result, Goodale said. Afterwards, we removed any evidence that we could.

The two were charged as adults because of the severity of the crime, but they werent subject to a mandatory sentence of life without parole because they were 16. Willard is now 17 and Goodale is 18.

Investigators have said that Miller met with Graber at the high school on the afternoon of Nov. 2, 2021, to discuss his poor grade in her class. Graber later drove her van to a park where she was known to take walks after work, authorities say. Witnesses saw her van leaving the park less than an hour later with two males in the front seat.

The van was left abandoned at the end of a rural road. After getting a phone call from Goodale, a witness later picked up Goodale and Miller as they walked to town on that road, investigators say.

Goodale and Miller were initially detained after a witness provided police with photos of a Snapchat conversation in which Goodale allegedly implicated himself and Miller in the killing.

In a police interview, Miller described the frustrations he had with the way Graber taught Spanish and how the grade in her class was lowering his GPA.

___

This story has been updated to correct Goodale's age to 18, not 17.
BURLINGTON, Vt. (AP)  A 45-year-old man was convicted by a jury Tuesday of kidnapping a woman and her 4-year-old son by forcing them into her car outside a New Hampshire mall and bringing them to Vermont while he was searching for his estranged wife.

The Vermont office of the United States Attorney said the federal court jury returned the guilty verdicts against Everett Simpson on two counts of kidnapping and two counts of interstate car theft. The case went to the jury earlier Tuesday.

"Although the harms suffered by Everett Simpsons victims are indelible, todays across-the-board guilty verdict represents a significant step in holding Everett Simpson responsible for the heinous crimes he committed on Jan. 5, 2019, the statement said.

Simpson faces a minimum of 20 years in prison and could be sentenced to life. Sentencing will come at a later date.

Simpson admitted before the jury on Monday that he left a Vermont drug treatment center shortly after he was dropped off there on the night of Jan. 4, 2019, for court-ordered substance abuse treatment from another case.

He stole a van parked in a nearby driveway and drove it to Manchester, New Hampshire, where it was abandoned the next day. Simpson acknowledged driving back to White River Junction, Vermont, with the alleged victim and her son in her car. But he said the woman had agreed to do so and that she had opportunities to leave had she wanted.

The woman and her child were taken to a Vermont motel. Simpson then took the victim's car to Pennsylvania, where he was eventually arrested.

Court documents say the victim was sexually assaulted while in the motel, but the federal charges did not include sexual assault. Simpson is, however, facing separate state sexual assault charges.

Simpson said he fled the treatment center because he was trying to find his estranged wife, who he believed was having a relationship with another man.

In 2020, the woman received $400,000 in the settlement of a lawsuit accusing the state of Vermont of not doing enough to find Simpson after he left the treatment center. In court last week, the woman said she had received a sizable settlement from the treatment center, but the exact amount is unclear.
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MOSCOW (AP)  The Chinese defense chief vowed Tuesday to take military cooperation with Moscow to a new level, a statement that reflects increasingly close Russia-China ties amid the fighting in Ukraine.

Chinese Defense Minister Gen. Li Shangfu held talks with his Russian counterpart Sergei Shoigu after attending a meeting Sunday with Russian President Vladimir Putin in the Kremlin.

The armed forces of China and Russia will implement the agreements reached by the heads of state and expand military cooperation, military-technical ties and arms trade, Li said in opening remarks at Tuesday's meeting with Shoigu. We will certainly take them to a new level.

Lis trip follows last month's three-day state visit to the Russian capital by Chinese leader Xi Jinping, reflecting Chinas strengthening engagement with Russia. Moscow and Beijing have closely aligned their policies in attempt to reshape the world order to diminish the influence of the United States and its Western allies.

China has refused to criticize Russias actions in Ukraine and blamed the U.S. and NATO for provoking Moscow. Xis visit to Moscow gave a strong political boost to Putin, sending a message to Western leaders that their efforts to isolate Russia have fallen short.

After the talks, Putin and Xi issued joint declarations pledging to further bolster their strategic cooperation, develop cooperation in energy, high-tech industries and other spheres and expand the use of their currencies in mutual trade to reduce dependence on the West.

After more than a year of fighting in Ukraine and bruising Western sanctions, Russias dependence on China has increased significantly. Facing Western restrictions on its oil, gas and other exports, Russia has shifted its energy flows to China and sharply expanded other exports, resulting in a 30% hike in bilateral trade.

Last month, Putin and Xi also vowed to further develop military cooperation between Moscow and Beijing and conduct more joint sea and air patrols. However, there was no mention of any prospective Chinese weapons supplies to Russia that the U.S. and other Western allies feared, and the Chinese foreign minister reaffirmed Friday that Beijing wouldnt sell weapons to either side in the conflict in Ukraine.
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BERLIN (AP)  Climate activists said Tuesday that they will stage further protests in Berlin in an effort to force the German government into doing more to curb global warming.

The announcement came as courts are taking a tougher stance against members of the group Last Generation who have repeatedly blocked roads across Germany in the past year.

The group said at a news conference in Berlin that it would begin to stage open-ended protests Wednesday in the government district. From Monday onward, members will try to peacefully bring the city to a standstill, it said.

Last Generation accuses the German government of breaching the countrys constitution, citing a supreme court verdict two years ago that found too much of the burden for climate change was being placed on younger generations. The government under then Chancellor Angela Merkel subsequently raised its targets for cutting greenhouse gas emissions, but activists say the measures aren't consistent with the Paris climate accord.

As long as theres no plan we can trust to protect our lives and future, and thats based on the constitution, we are obliged to demand such a plan with all peaceful means, said Carla Hinrichs, a spokesperson for Last Generation.

The group wants Germany to end the use of all fossil fuels by 2030, a step that would be extremely ambitious to achieve. The country switched off its last three nuclear plants over the weekend, increasing its reliance on coal and gas-fired power plants until sufficient renewable energy capacity is available.

Last Generation's protests have drawn sharp criticism from across much of the political spectrum, though there has also been support for their underlying aims.

Three activists were sentenced to between three and five months imprisonment by a court in the southwestern city of Heilbronn on Monday. The judge noted that they had joined a blockade in March hours after being sentenced in a previous case.

One of the protesters, Daniel Eckert, defended his actions after the verdict, saying: As long as the true criminals aren't brought before a court but instead continue to destroy the basis of our existence and profit from it, I can't do anything other than stand in the way of this destruction.
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BEIRUT (AP)  Lebanons parliament Tuesday voted to extend the terms of local officials, paving the way to postpone municipal elections for up to a year for a second time. Some lawmakers were concerned the government wouldn't be able to secure the needed funding in time for polling.

The likely delay came as Lebanons economy and infrastructure continue to crumble, with legislators in the deeply divided parliament unable to reach a settlement to end a presidential vacuum for almost six months.

Lebanons municipal elections were originally slated for May last year but were postponed for a year because they coincided with parliamentary elections, which brought in a dozen reformist lawmakers running on anti-establishment platforms. Tuesday's vote extended the terms of local officials by another year,

Opposition and reformist groups would likely continue this momentum and win additional seats if local elections were held, as living conditions across the country continue to deteriorate. They have called for municipal elections to take place as planned in May, and most have boycotted parliaments session.

Lebanon has been without a fully functioning government for nearly a year as Prime Minister Najib Mikati heads a caretaker Cabinet with limited functions. The country has also been in a severe economic crisis since late 2019, with three-quarters of the population now living in poverty.

Riot police lobbed tear gas Tuesday at hundreds of protesting retired soldiers who broke down a barbed wire fence near government headquarters in downtown Beirut as the Cabinet met. Protesters burned tires as scores of riot police and army soldiers surrounded the area.

Retired military personnel have frequently protested the country's dire economic conditions and wage and pension hikes that are adjusted to the country's soaring inflation.

Before the value of the national currency started spiraling in late 2019, the country's monthly minimum wage was 675,000 pounds  about $450 dollars  but today is worth less than $7.

Mikatis Cabinet on Tuesday agreed to increase the private sectors minimum monthly wage from 2.6 million to 9 million pounds, worth $92.50 at the countrys black market rate, which dominates the market. They also raised the exchange rate used for calculating customs fees from 30,000 pounds to the dollar to the central banks Sayrafa platform, where the dollar is valued at 86,700 pounds.

Meanwhile, top political groups and leaders continue to quarrel. Mikati's government and various major political groups in parliament, notably the Christian Free Patriotic Movement, have accused each other of stalling the securing of funding and logistics that caused the delay.

If you really didn't want to postpone municipal elections, why did you attend today's session and secure a quorum? The prime minister said at parliament in a heated dispute with several parliamentarians.

Just 65 of Lebanon's 128 lawmakers attended, the bare minimum needed for a legislative session to secure a quorum.

Earlier this month, caretaker Interior Minister Bassam Mawlawi, whose ministry oversees elections, said Lebanon was ready to hold timely municipal elections, and that he had secured funding from the European Union and the United Nations to ease the burden on the countrys shoestring budget.

Both the EU and the U.N. have urged the crisis-hit country to hold elections on time. However, legislators have yet to pass a draft law that would secure an advance to the Interior Ministry.

Deputy Speaker Elias Bou Saab said in a parliamentary committee session on funding that holding the vote on time would be impossible" and added that Mawlawis representative had told lawmakers they could not secure the funds despite the interior minister's claims.

Lebanons last municipal elections in 2016 saw low voter turnout. In Beirut, local media reported a 20% voter turnout, whereas 48% of voters in Baalbek near the Syrian border cast their ballots.

In Lebanons sect-based power-sharing system, citizens only directly vote in parliamentary and municipal elections. Parliamentarians, split evenly between Muslim and Christian sects, vote for a Maronite Christian president, who then negotiates alongside them to bring in a Sunni Muslim prime minister. The speaker of parliament is a Shiite Muslim.
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WASHINGTON (AP)  Stepping gingerly over the lawn in their spiky heels, first lady Jill Biden and Yuko Kishida, the wife of Japan's prime minister, planted a cherry tree at the White House on Monday to honor decades of friendship between their countries.

This is how you always plant a tree," Biden said, laughing about their shoes as she and Kishida shoveled soil around the base of a Yoshino cherry tree sapling on the south grounds.

She welcomed Kishida to the White House and said, The planting of this tree is a symbol of the friendship between our two nations forever and ever.

It was their only public engagement of the day.

Kishida is on a rare solo visit to the United States. It's the first time the spouse of the prime minister has traveled alone to the United States, and Kishida visited at Biden's invitation, according to the Japanese embassy in Washington.

She is spending part of the week in Washington to promote friendship between the U.S. and Japan, as well as cultural exchanges, the Japanese government said.

The women met first over tea prepared by Kishida, who was given a tour of the White House by Biden, Japan's embassy said in a statement.

Biden took Kishida to the Oval Office to greet President Joe Biden, both governments said, and also hosted her for lunch. Among those invited to the women-only meal were Rep. Doris Matsui, D-Calif.; Maki Onuki, principal dancer at the Washington Ballet; and Akiko Iwasaki, immunology professor at Yale University School of Medicine, according to the first lady's office.

The new sapling is a Yoshino cherry tree that was propagated from a cutting from a cherry tree that was planted on the south grounds in July 2017, the White House said. It was planted near the East Wing. The White House has 23 other cherry trees across the 18 acres.

The meeting between Biden and Kishida was rescheduled from January when Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and President Biden met in the Oval Office. Kishida's wife accompanied him on the trip. But Jill Biden was unable to host Yuko Kishida at the time because the first lady was recovering from a surgical procedure performed two days earlier to remove several cancerous lesions from her skin.

It also comes before next week's state visit by South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and first lady, Kim Keon Hee.

President Biden has looked to build closer security cooperation with Japan and South Korea at a time of shared concerns about a restive North Korea and a more powerful China. He has sought opportunities to help the historic rivals improve their long, fraught relationship as the Indo-Pacific region becomes increasingly complicated.

In March, South Korea announced a plan to compensate Koreans who performed forced labor during Tokyos colonial rule that doesnt require Japanese companies to contribute to the reparations.

President Biden hailed the step as a "groundbreaking new chapter in cooperation between the countries. Yoon followed up by visiting Tokyo later in March for talks with Kishida. It was the first summit between the two nations leaders since 2011.

The U.S. and Japanese spouses also met several weeks before Kishida hosts the annual Group of Seven summit of leading industrialized nations, including the U.S., in mid-May in Hiroshima, Japan.

At the end of the meeting, Kishida said she hoped that she and the prime minister would be able to welcome the Bidens to the summit, her government said.

___

Associated Press writers Aamer Madhani in Washington and Mari Yamaguchi in Tokyo contributed to this report.
My first big-girl job was working part-time at my hometown library in southwest Missouri.

I made roughly $150 a month, if memory serves, and I answered to a trio of blue-haired ladies who formed a bastion of rock-ribbed churchgoers who brooked no nonsense. Part of my job was contacting children with overdue books. I remember calling one boy whod checked out a book on electricity that hadnt left the shelf since 1946, but that didnt affect our desire to get it back.

Occasionally, I was allowed behind the desk (was it oak?) to wait on patrons, but the blue-hairs thought my people skills were lacking, so that was a rare event.

Please understand that I liked those old women. They were well-read, all widowed, and they treated the library like a sanctuary. It only made sense that Id start my work life there. I grew up beneath the librarys dingy portrait of Andrew Carnegie, who in 1913 gifted the town $25,000, when that kind of money could build an ornate limestone building sufficient to the needs of a community. The community was already starting its economic decline. The area mines had played out and the raucous miners were following the veins out to Kansas and Oklahoma, but the residents left behind needed books, and every time the town outgrew the original building, the residents stepped up.

You cannot overstate the impact that a library and the treasures therein can have on a child. Every few days, I rode my Spyder bike to fill my basket with biographies, history books and novels that would transport me to the big wide world. I had a raggedy childhood, but I had a porch swing that was perfect for reading, and a library full of stories about other, more hopeful kinds of childhoods.

That library gave me my introduction to the First Amendment, though I didnt know it at the time. When I was 11, I watched a talk show where guests discussed Henry Millers Tropic of Cancer, which had been made into a movie. The book was banned as obscene until 1964, when the Supreme Court stepped in. The day after I saw that show, I pedaled to the library, found the book, and carried it to the check-out desk, where that days blue-hair  this being a small town, we were distantly related  looked at the book, looked at me, opened the book, stamped it, and reminded me it was due back in two weeks.

I carried the book home, settled onto the swing, and dove in. Tropic of Cancer was, in fact, a dirty book but I dont remember losing sleep over it, and here I am today, a tax-paying, voting citizen who sleeps with her spouse and remains unscarred by that challenging text.

Last week, Republicans in Missouris state House of Representatives  lead by a man who hails from a town near mine  voted to defund public libraries to the tune of $4.5 million. The bill is nothing but bald revenge for the Missouri Library Association and the Missouri Association of School Librarians, with the help of the ACLU, filing a lawsuit against a new, draconian state law that bans books with sexually explicit images from school libraries. That rotten piece of legislature threatens fines and jail time for librarians if a patron finds a sexually explicit book on the shelves.

What constitutes sexually explicit? Thats the $4.5 million question, isnt it? Lets just say the bills main proponent, Rep. Cody Smith, R-Carthage, is just one more politician who has made Missouri look like a passel of cousin-marrying, snaggled-toothed hillbillies who dont read.

Ironically, if Rep. Smith had done a moment of research, hed know that neither plaintiff is paying for the lawsuit. The ACLU has taken the case pro bono, but facts dont matter when youre hellbent to exact revenge  or ban books.

Sadly, Rep. Smiths bad act will most affect rural and smaller libraries  much like the ones in his own district.

My beautiful home state has taken a sharp turn toward ignorance, but you should know that equally dedicated illiterates are at work in Connecticut. Officials report challenges to books in the Nutmeg State have doubled over the last year. Challenges have popped up in places such as Westport, Fairfield, and Darien. During last years Pride Month, a group of women demanded that Coventry library staff members actually burn books used in their display. My own little library  I serve on the board  discussed what we would do should there be a challenge to a book we offer. We stand ready.

Last year the American Library Association recorded 1,269 attempts to ban books nationwide. The year before, there were 729. Fifty-eight percent of the ALAs recorded challenges targeted school and classroom libraries or books that are part of a curriculum. Forty-one percent of challenges were aimed at books in public libraries.

The vast majority of challenges  90 percent  came from organized censorship groups, such as Moms for Liberty, which is neither. Parents who want the government to make choices for their children strike me as lazy to the extreme. If you dont want your child to read a particular book, then by all means raise that child the way you think best, but remember that in matters of reading material, you make decisions for your child and your child alone. I have now crossed the threshold and am one of those blue-haired ladies. You should probably fear me.
Elko County Mybrary Board of Trustees meets at 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 18, at the Elko County Library. The board will hear a report on the activities of the Elko County Law Library.



Elko Institute for Academic Achievement meets at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 18, at 1031 Railroad St. Board members will discuss the ongoing capital campaign and facilities project, including an exemption from the March 1 timeline to submit a request to occupy the permanent location at 905 W. Main St. The board will also consider approving the school calendar for 2023-24 reflecting a four-day week.



Elko County Board of Fire Commissioners will meet at 1:15 p.m. Wednesday, April 19, in the Nannini Administration Building. The board will consider augmenting the fire districts budget by $600,000 using unanticipated additional revenue sources.



Elko County Board of Commissioners will meet at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 19, in the Nannini Administration Building. Members will consider directing staff how to deal with Frontier Communications phone outages that have left some residents without services for weeks. Commissioners will also consider returning unused donations for COVID-19 support for businesses that have been fined by state agencies. They will also consider responding to Nevada State Parks in regard to requiring reservations to utilize the campgrounds at South Fork State Recreation Area.

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Elko County Board of Health will meet at 3 p.m. Wednesday, April 19, in the Nannini Administration Building. The board will receive an update on Nevada Health Centers recruitment efforts and staffing status, and reports from Northeastern Nevada Regional Hospital, the Elko County Sheriffs Office, Vitality Unlimited, and the Elko County School District.
Ontarios Ministry of Labour has performed at least 20 field site visits at Evertrust Development Inc.s Upper Vista Welland condominium construction site, says Joyce Morocco, a contracted spokesperson for the company.

In a release, Morocco said the visits at 350 Prince Charles Dr. were to ensure the ongoing and thorough investigation will not only find and resolve all issues but also ensure the highest safety standards for construction workers and the surrounding neighbourhood.

To respect the ongoing ministry investigation, our team has waited to release communications to ensure the highest accuracy of information.

However, with the ongoing public interest in the project and a significant amount of speculative narratives being distributed, we have compiled the latest updates of the project, which are intended to both inform as well as instil confidence in our commitment to the building and community at large, Morocco said in the release.

The 266-unit condo building suffered a partial collapse on the east side of the south tower during the night of Feb. 18. It suffered a second collapse eight days later in the same area during the day.

Both collapses, the second of which appeared more significant, were caught by a residential security camera on Canal Bank Street on the opposite side of Welland Recreational Canal.

Morocco said Evertrust has been working closely with the ministry and the City of Welland since the collapses.

As a result of the ministry visits to date, work orders have been issued to our team, the first of which began Feb. 19 with a make safe work order, the day after the structural incident.

The release said other work orders followed, including a broad range of requirements such as producing drawings  pre-cast concrete and architectural; design calculations for vertical and lateral loads; forwarding employer registration forms for structural steel; stud walls and concrete; providing sections of steel where structural issues occurred; submitting a professional engineered letter verifying load capacities; as well as providing video footage of the incidents.

Evertrust wants to reassure and state to the public that absolutely all requirements pursuant to ministry investigation have been fully complied with to date as the investigation continues.

Through Morocco, the company said the site has undergone all required inspections in a timely manner.

Inspections on a construction site are a team effort between many, including construction personnel, various types of engineers, the ministry and the city.

Through a Freedom of Information request, The Tribune sought records related to the five-storey development as far back as 2018.

Within city files are 33 site inspection records, the earliest having taken place Nov. 18, 2021, when a footing inspection received a partial pass after forming and rebar was put in place. The most recent inspection, according to the list, was on Nov. 23, 2022, when work related to sewers was checked out.

Of the 33 inspections at the site, 23 dealt with water and sanitary servicing.

In an interview last week, Brad Taylor, the citys deputy chief building official, said inspections for building construction are regulated by the Ontario Building Code, and that the person to whom a permit is issued shall notify the building department at different stages of construction. The municipality then carries out an inspection.

Morocco said certain aspects of inspections are done more promptly than others due to their nature, such as civil inspections on a sewer before it is covered vs. a structural inspection, likely open for an extended time.

We continue to work in tandem with the citys engineering team (Hamilton-based) Kalos Engineering Inc., and requested their extensive analysis of the structure, which exceeds the usual scope of a periodic review over the normal course of construction.

The release said Evertrust instigated a vigorous protocol to ensure the highest quality standards, which includes the engagement of the engineer of record Mirkwood Engineering, along with the peer review engineering team, CEP Forensic, who works with the citys and ministrys engineers.

We also perform extensive testing of materials used on site. Evertrust looks forward to this phase of the project being completed and has already applied for a construction permit.

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The trial of a former Hamilton nightclub owner charged two summers ago with sexually assaulting six women here is still a year away.

Meanwhile, a court in British Columbia recently decided he will face five separate trials there in connection to charges involving five other women.

Jesse Chiavaroli is alleged to have preyed on women at the bars and restaurants where he worked, sometimes slipping drugs into their drinks before sexually assaulting them.

His arrests made headlines across the country with dozens of women taking to social media to report their own experiences with him in a powerful #MeToo moment. Outrage in Victoria, where he had worked as a bartender at Chucks Burger Bar (owned by another former Hamilton business owner), led to a boycott and protests and eventually the permanent closing of the restaurant.

Chiavaroli is out on bail and living in B.C. while facing allegations of preying on 11 women in two provinces.

Publication bans protect the identities of the women.

One media outlet in Victoria mistakenly reported over the weekend that new charges were laid against Chiavaroli. That is not the case. The court generated new paperwork by severing his existing charges into separate indictments, meaning five separate trials, according to Thomas Arbogast, his lawyer on those matters.

The Ministry of the Attorney General for B.C. also confirmed to The Spectator this is a severance of existing charges.

After The Hamilton Spectator published a story in February 2021 investigating Chiavarolis reputation in Hamilton and Victoria, he was investigated and charged.

He worked in Niagara Falls and St. Catharines from 2009 to 2015, at one time operating a St. Catharines bar called Cache.

From 2015 to 2018 he worked in Hamilton. He was part-owner of the short-lived Baroque nightclub on John Street South and he ran three bars in Hess Village  Ora, Trust and Heist.

The sexual assault charges laid by Hamilton police relate to alleged incidents spanning July 1, 2015, to June 20, 2018.

Soon after the last alleged assault, Chiavaroli skipped town for B.C.

The Spectator reported on allegations of sexual assault against Chiavaroli, his frequent use of cocaine, thousands of dollars in debts that he owed to business colleagues and his problems with the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario.

In June 2021, Hamilton police sexual assault investigators charged him with six counts of sexual assault.

In December 2021, the British Columbia Prosecution Service charged him with four counts of sexual assault and one count of assault with a weapon. The alleged incidents happened between May 2019 and December 2020.

He is also facing a charge of possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking in Burnaby, B.C.

Chiavarolis trial in Hamilton is set to begin in April 2024 and last four weeks. His lawyer for that case, Harval Bassi, declined comment.

With the matter still being before the courts, I dont think it would be appropriate for me to comment, he said.

Survivors are encouraged to report to Hamilton Police Service by contacting the sexual assault unit (non-emergency line) at 905-540-5553 or hamiltonpolice.on.ca to file an online report. You can also provide information anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, or submit anonymous tips at crimestoppershamiIton.com.

Resources for survivors of sexual violence:

SACHA (Sexual Assault Centre Hamilton and Area): 905-525-4162

McMaster University Sexual Violence Prevention and Response Office: svpro@mcmaster.ca

SAVIS (Sexual Assault and Violence Intervention Services of Halton): 905-875-1555

Sexual Assault/Domestic Violence Care Centre at Hamilton Health Sciences: 905-521-2100 ext. 73557

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MONTREAL - Public safety officials in Quebec say theyre hoping for the best but preparing for the worst as the provinces spring flooding season begins.

In southern Quebec, warm temperatures and precipitation have led to elevated waterways, Joshua Menard-Suarez, a spokesman with the Public Security Department, said Tuesday. Menard-Suarez said the situation was stable, adding that the flooding across the province occurs in the same places every year.

Weve been preparing for weeks, he said in an interview. Its stable, but if it ends up being more serious, were ready.

He said officials were paying particular attention to the Outaouais region in western Quebec.

France Belisle, the mayor of Gatineau, the largest city in the Outaouais, called on citizens to remain vigilant even though weather forecasts were calling for less rain than had been expected earlier in the week.

Water levels are still rising, but a little slower than expected, she said.

The Ottawa River was rising about one centimetre an hour, Belisle said, with the peak expected to come between Wednesday and Friday. Water levels, she added, were expected to remain high for several more days, and about 254 buildings were at risk of flooding.

She said the city started distributing sandbags and teams were on the ground monitoring the situation.

Gatineau had major flooding in 2017 and 2019, which affected hundreds of homes.

In Montreal, fire Chief Richard Liebmann said the city opened a flooding coordination centre on Tuesday to help people protect their homes and boroughs and municipalities on Montreal Island protect public property.

However, he said, the weather forecast had brought good news.

We had a little less rain than expected, so the flows are a bit lower for the next 48 hours than were initially forecast at the beginning of the week, he said.

That said, we are at the mercy of the weather, so we never know; if there is rain, if there are strong winds, everything could change quite quickly, so were still asking the public to be ready.

North of Montreal, in Quebecs Laurentians region, several municipalities warned residents to take precautions.

On Monday evening, officials in Mont-Tremblant asked people living on four streets near the Diable River to leave their homes, warning the river would reach flooding levels overnight. City spokesman Maxime Dorais said around 65 residences would be affected, adding the area also includes cottages and a campground.

Its not an exceptional situation, he said in an interview Tuesday, adding that water levels were comparable to those seen almost every year in the city. The voluntary evacuations were a precaution, he said, motivated by concerns emergency services would not be able to reach people in the flooded area.

Quebecs Public Security Department has said water levels on the Diable River have peaked.

The department reported one major flood in Quebec, in the city of St-Jerome, north of Montreal, though water levels there were receding. It defines a major flood as one that could threaten safety or infrastructure in inhabited areas, one that covers a large area or one that could have a major impact on road networks or electrical services.

The City of St-Jerome issued a provisional warning Monday evening, asking residents in several parts of the community near the du Nord River to stay tuned for further instructions.

In nearby St-Colomban, a bridge over the du Nord River was closed due to rising water levels.

The Transport Department said seven other roads in the Laurentians and the neighbouring Lanaudiere region were closed due to flooding and that traffic was limited on a seventh road.

Roads were also closed in the Abitibi-Temiscamingue and Chaudiere-Appalaches regions because of flooding.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 18, 2023.

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A Canadian woman made what her lawyer described as a desperate call to her mother early Tuesday, after the Star reported that she was missing in northeast Syria, along with her three teenage daughters and sister-in-law.

It was clear she was in distress, but alive, Edmonton lawyer Zachary Al-Khatib said about the call that lasted four minutes and was from an unknown Syrian number. It was what I can only describe as a proof of life call.

The whereabouts of the five Canadians had been unknown since April 2, when they were scheduled to be repatriated to Canada, but instead seemed to disappear within the confines of the sprawling detention camps administered by the Kurdish forces in whats known as the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria, or AANES.

The only possible clue about their fate was a text from another female captive at the camp. She claimed that when the women and girls asked to be transferred to a pick-up point where they could meet Canadian officials, they were arrested and transported in a Humvee to a facility known as the Red Prison.

Al-Khatib believes that once this was reported Monday night by the Star and CBC, the women were transferred from where they were, to another area called al-Roj camp, and managed to make that short call Tuesday before the line went dead.

The women from Edmonton left Canada for Syria in 2014 and were captured five years later in the city of Baghouz, which was the site of the final major battle between the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces and the Islamic State terrorist group. One of the women had brought her three young daughters  now aged 13, 15 and 16  to Syria with her.

Al-Khatib said his client told her mother Tuesday that they had been held in prison for the past two weeks and alleged they had been mistreated. She told her everything had been confiscated and they needed medical attention.

Al-Khatib said he immediately informed Global Affairs Canada about the call, and they assured him they are taking the allegations seriously.

Global Affairs Canada did not respond Tuesday to a request for comment from the Star.

When asked about the case in Ottawa on Tuesday, Immigration Minister Sean Fraser refused to comment, citing privacy and security concerns.

The issue of Canadian captives held in northeastern Syria has long been politically and legally fraught. In January, Federal Court Judge Henry Brown ordered Ottawa to repatriate all Canadian men, women and children being held in these camps and prisons, which were set up to hold suspected ISIS members, and other foreigners caught up in the Syrian conflict.

Many of those women and children have recently been brought back  some of the women arrested upon arrival for terrorism offensives, or peace bonds. The government is appealing Browns order to also repatriate the four Canadian men in custody.

While Canada has begun to deal with its citizens after years of delay, the unprecedented larger crisis of these makeshift prisons and detention camps continues.

The numbers of those held as detainees or prisoners vary, but its believed to be as many as 65,000 people, from 60 countries. They range in profile from battle-hardened ISIS fighters looking to escape and rebuild the terrorist network, to hapless war refugees.

The vast majority, however, are just children. Aside from the situation being a human rights disaster, security experts also warn about the recruiting opportunities if nothing is done to care for the children and teenagers.

As Charles Lister, the director of the Syria and Countering Terrorism and Extremism programs at the Middle East Institute, wrote recently in a Politico article, Failing to deal with this detainee crisis is a dream scenario for ISIS.

Michelle Shephard is an independent journalist and filmmaker and the Stars former national security correspondent. Follow her @shephardm

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MOSCOW (AP)  The Chinese defense chief vowed Tuesday to take military cooperation with Moscow to a new level, a statement that reflects increasingly close Russia-China ties amid the fighting in Ukraine.

Chinese Defense Minister Gen. Li Shangfu held talks with his Russian counterpart Sergei Shoigu after attending a meeting Sunday with Russian President Vladimir Putin in the Kremlin.

The armed forces of China and Russia will implement the agreements reached by the heads of state and expand military cooperation, military-technical ties and arms trade, Li said in opening remarks at Tuesdays meeting with Shoigu. We will certainly take them to a new level.

Lis trip follows last months three-day state visit to the Russian capital by Chinese leader Xi Jinping, reflecting Chinas strengthening engagement with Russia. Moscow and Beijing have closely aligned their policies in attempt to reshape the world order to diminish the influence of the United States and its Western allies.

China has refused to criticize Russias actions in Ukraine and blamed the U.S. and NATO for provoking Moscow. Xis visit to Moscow gave a strong political boost to Putin, sending a message to Western leaders that their efforts to isolate Russia have fallen short.

After the talks, Putin and Xi issued joint declarations pledging to further bolster their strategic cooperation, develop cooperation in energy, high-tech industries and other spheres and expand the use of their currencies in mutual trade to reduce dependence on the West.

After more than a year of fighting in Ukraine and bruising Western sanctions, Russias dependence on China has increased significantly. Facing Western restrictions on its oil, gas and other exports, Russia has shifted its energy flows to China and sharply expanded other exports, resulting in a 30% hike in bilateral trade.

Last month, Putin and Xi also vowed to further develop military cooperation between Moscow and Beijing and conduct more joint sea and air patrols. However, there was no mention of any prospective Chinese weapons supplies to Russia that the U.S. and other Western allies feared, and the Chinese foreign minister reaffirmed Friday that Beijing wouldnt sell weapons to either side in the conflict in Ukraine.

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WARSAW, Poland (AP)  Thousands of people gathered Tuesday at the former site of Auschwitz for the March of the Living, a yearly Holocaust remembrance march that falls this year on the eve of the 80th anniversary of the outbreak of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising.

Italian President Sergio Mattarella spoke at the event, warning that the ideas of the 1930s were reappearing at a time when Russias inhuman aggression against Ukraine is still raging. He callled the memory of the Holocaust an eternal warning that cannot be ignored.

Hate, prejudice, racism, extremism, anti-Semitism, indifference, delusion and hunger for power lurk, constantly challenging the consciences of individuals and nations, said Mattarella, whose nation under dictator Benito Mussolini was allied with Adolf Hitlers Germany during the war.

Participants in the event included Holocaust survivors who lived through the agony of Auschwitz or one of the other death camps where Nazi Germany sought to exterminate the Jewish population of Europe, and came close to doing so.

Some attendees, including people from Israel and the United States, came face to face for the first time with something which has long been a part of their psyche: the watchtowers, remains of gas chambers and the huge piles of shoes, suitcases and other objects that the victims brought with them on their final journey.

German forces established Auschwitz after they invaded and occupied Poland during World War II, and killed more than 1.1 million people there, most of them Jews but also Poles, Roma, Soviet prisoners of war, and others. In all, about 6 million European Jews died during the Holocaust.

Elderly survivors, some draped in Israels blue and white flag, assembled under the gate with the cynical words Arbeit Macht Frei (Work Sets One Free) ahead of the march.

The event, while somber, is also a celebration of survival and the state of Israel, and some participants clapped and sang as they prepared to march near the gate.

The March of the Living, which takes place each year on Israels Holocaust Remembrance Day, began at that gate and led to Birkenau, the large camp 3 kilometers (2 miles) away where Jews from across Europe were transported by train and murdered in gas chambers.

Phyllis Greenberg Heideman, the march president, said the young participants would bear the responsibility for carrying forward the memory of the witnesses.

They will be the voice of those who no longer have voice once they see and understand what happened in the past, she said.

Some of the participants planned to travel the next day to Warsaw for observances marking the uprising in the Warsaw ghetto in 1943 which will be attended by the presidents of Poland, Germany and Israel.

The revolt was the largest single act of Jewish resistance during the Holocaust, and remains a potent national symbol for Israel.

On Tuesday, Polish Culture Minister Piotr Glinski attended a ceremony symbolically marking a new stage in the development of a museum scheduled to open in three years, the Warsaw Ghetto Museum.

Officials buried a time capsule containing memorabilia and a message to future generations on the grounds of a former childrens hospital which will house the museum.

___

Rafal Niedzielski contributed from Oswiecim, Poland.

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MIAMI (AP)  An outside investigation determined that the head of the Organization of American States showed poor judgment by carrying out a romantic relationship with a younger staffer but didnt favor her in any salary or personnel decisions, according to a copy of the review seen by The Associated Press.

The findings about Secretary General Luis Almagros conduct are contained in a 121-page report delivered Monday to OAS member states. And while it stopped short of clearing him of all the allegations, Almagro said the report represents closure to an issue that has divided regional governments along ideological lines and threatened to distract the democracy-building organization from its mission.

At every moment I acted with maximum transparency, putting first the organizations interests and respecting the norms, Almagro said in a 10-page response that was included in the report, a copy of which was shared with the AP by someone who received it on the condition of anonymity because it hasnt yet been made public.

The report was triggered after the AP last October revealed that the 59-year-old Almagro had a lengthy relationship with a Mexican staffer two decades his junior  a relationship that, while largely in the open, felt to some in the Washington-based organization like a throwback to an era of unbridled machismo in the workplace.

The probe, conducted by Washington law firm Miller & Chevalier, faulted Almagro for allowing the woman  who the AP isnt naming at the OAS request  to call herself an advisor to the Secretary General, even though she didnt report to him directly and such a title was restricted to a handful of senior aides.

The woman also accompanied Almagro on 42 of the 92 official trips he made during the roughly four years their romance lasted, generating the impression, both inside and outside the organization, that she was a trusted aide who enjoyed preferential treatment from the boss.

The external investigation revealed that the Secretary General was aware of this and took no steps to prevent this perception to continue to expand, the report said.

Still, the probe found no evidence that Almagro played a role in the womans pay increases  which were all commensurate with positive performance reviews, some from her time before dating Almagro.

Additionally, investigators said the couple took due precautions not to break any rules  even submitting in March 2022 a conflict-of-interest declaration stating that their relationship did not hinder their job duties. Shortly after, they broke up and the woman went on unpaid leave.

According to the report, Almagro interacted closely for the first time with the junior staffer at an event at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia in March 2018 that she helped organize. A week after their return to Washington, he invited the woman to move to the OAS main building so that she could be detailed part-time to his staff  a request her supervisor did not consider unusual.

Shortly after, the two became romantically involved. Almagro, in consultation with an unnamed aide, determined that since he was not the womans direct supervisor, nor played any role in decisions about her promotions or salary, the relationship did not violate the OAS norms.

From that moment on, the Secretary General established a sufficient hierarchical and administrative distance between himself and the OAS Official, in order not to fall into any violation - even inadvertently - of the norms that regulate intimate relationships, the report concluded.

Almagro was elected to head the OAS with near-unanimous support in 2015 after serving as foreign minister in Uruguays leftist government. From the start, Almagro made common cause with the U.S. in opposing Cuba and Venezuelas socialist governments, once even mimicking President Donald J. Trumps line that he wouldnt rule out using military force to remove Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.

He was re-elected in 2020 and since then has faced numerous challenges from mostly leftist governments who criticized the key role he played in the messy election in Bolivia in 2019, which ended with Evo Morales resignation amid allegations of fraud by an OAS observer mission  findings that were later questioned by U.S. academics.

The Biden administration, which has mostly backed Almagro in the ideological tug-of-war, view him as a bulwark against a rise in authoritarian rule across Latin America. But privately many officials grumble about the cash-strapped organizations recent drift and Almagros leadership style.

Frank Mora, the U.S. Ambassador to the OAS, expressed support for the reports findings, highlighting that Almagro had been cleared of breaking any rules or regulations on hiring, compensation, travel, or conflict of interest.

Based on our initial read, the report appears to be thorough and fair, he said in a written statement.

Mora did not address the separate findings that Almagro violated ethics provisions that staff should always exercise common sense and good judgment and that as head of the organization he should be held to an even higher standard.

But he expressed support for working with other members states to implement the reports recommendations, including a call for the OAS to update its decade old ethics code and 2015 harassment policy, as well as broaden its regulation of workplace relationships.

We look forward to hearing the views of other OAS Member States on this matter, he added.

Mexicos leftist government, which along with Argentina and Bolivia had called on Almagro to resign even before publication of the report, said the report makes clear that Almagro has abused his power inside the OAS.

Hes causing damage, Efrain Guadarrama, a senior foreign ministry official who directs Mexicos participation in multilateral organizations, said in an interview. This report makes clear that he doesnt have the minimal essential qualifications to be secretary general.



AP Writer Gisela Salomon contributed to this report from Miami. Follow Goodman on Twitter: @APJoshGoodman

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As the China-Laos Railway started cross-border passenger services last week, Thailand, a neighboring country of Laos, is sharing the joy.

In Thailand's northeastern border province of Nong Khai, many people in the tourism industry have already benefited a lot since the railway was launched in 2021. They expect the cross-border passenger services will further boost regional connectivity.

Click here to watch the video.




The abductors of eight persons from Owukpa community, Ogbadibo Local Government Area of Benue State, have demanded N500,000 ransom for each victim.





It was earlier reported that the assailants ambushed the villagers along the Atamka-Ugbugbu road while they were returning from the Aho-Ogbo local market.





Our correspondent gathered on Tuesday that the kidnappers reached out to families of the victims, demanding N500,000 for each person as the only condition for their release.





One of the abductees, John Ameh was, however, freed due to his health challenges.





Godwin Agada, Daniel Apeh and other victims are reportedly still in custody.





Meanwhile, the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Anene Catherine Sewuese told newsmen that officers of the command in collaboration with local vigilantes have been mobilized to the area to ensure that the victims are rescued unhurt.





She said, Yes, an incident was reported at Orokam police Division. Investigation reveals that some hoodlums grouped themselves and went to a farm area to kidnap people.





Police teams in collaboration with vigilant groups in the community have been mobilised to the forest for rescue.
Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe of Abia on Monday commended the introduction of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System, BVAS.

The former Senate Minority leader also said the cash crunch caused by the cashless policy stopped widespread vote buying.

Abaribe spoke in Abuja at a seminar organised by the Media Educational Development Initiative for Africa, themed Peace Journalism and Consolidation of Democracy in Nigeria.

The former deputy governor expressed gratitude to God that he survived the Peter Obi tsunami in the Southeast which retired some politicians.

I benefited from BVAS. The technology was right, the only issue is that we have to eliminate human interference, the lawmaker said.

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, still faces criticisms over the malfunctioning of the machines in some polling units.

Abaribe defeated Governor Okezie Ikpeazu of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to win the February 25 Abia South senatorial election.

He polled 49,693 votes to defeat Chinedu Onyeizu of the Labour Party, LP, who scored 43,903. Ikpeazu got 28,422 votes but rejected the results.
Atedo Peterside, president of the Anap Foundation, has weighed in on the controversy trailing the Adamawa state governorship election.

Hudu Yunusa-Ari, the Adamawa resident electoral commissioner, had caused a ruckus by declaring Aisha Binani Dahiru, candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), as the winner of the election while results collation was still ongoing.

According to the Electoral Act, the returning officer for the governorship election is the official empowered to declare a winner.

Speaking in a chat with Arise TV on Monday, Peterside said the action of the REC is a representation of impunity by the leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Although INEC has scrapped the declaration made by the REC, the development has continued to elicit criticism from stakeholders across the country.

Adding his voice to the fray, Peterside described the situation in Adamawa as embarrassing but added that the punishment for the REC must also be extended to INEC workers on duty during the February 25 presidential election.

If you have gone to the INEC IREV to see what happened in the presidential election in some states, there was impunity there, the ANAP Foundation founder.

And there is impunity here. We have to get serious in this country about whether to tackle all issues of impunity or just tackle them in Adamawa state. What is the difference?

I agree that what happened in Adamawa was particularly embarrassing, but perhaps he took a cue from those at the centre, who handled the presidential elections.

In some states, they refused to upload the results, why would states be having elections in different manners? We have to go back and hold people accountable. everybody should be held accountable, not just in Adamawa.

On Monday, INEC directed Yunisa-Ari to stay away from the commissions office in the state.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says it will write Baba Ahmed, inspector-general of police, to investigate and prosecute Hudu Yunusa-Ari, the resident electoral commissioner (REC) for Adamawa.

The decision was taken on Tuesday at the technical meeting attended by national commissioners of INEC in Abuja.

The electoral umpire has also decided to write Boss Mustapha, secretary to the government of the federation, to brief President Muhammadu Buhari about the unwholesome behaviour of the REC.

The electoral body said the collation process shall resume at a time to be determined by the returning officer.

The Adamawa governorship supplementary election was conducted on Saturday following the declaration of the March 18 poll as inconclusive over alleged irregularities.

The collation of election results was suspended till Sunday after results from 10 LGAs were announced.

But Yunusa-Ari declared Aisha Binani Dahiru, candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), as the winner of the election when results from the remaining LGAs had not been announced.

INEC subsequently discontinued the exercise and described his action as null and void, adding that the declaration of a winner is the responsibility of the returning officer.

The development triggered protests in Adamawa state. Members of the PDP staged a demonstration on Monday, marching through the streets of Yola, the capital of the state.

The Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) had condemned the RECs action and called on INEC to sanction all erring officials who carried out the illegal declaration of Binani as the winner of the poll.
A federal high court in Abuja has refused to hear an ex-parte application by Aisha Binani Dahiru seeking to restrain the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from invalidating her declaration as winner of the Adamawa state governorship election.

At the court session on Tuesday, Inyang Ekwo, presiding judge, asked Binanis lawyer, Mohammed Sherif, to first address the issues of jurisdiction before hearing the substantive motion.

The court ordered Binani to file her address on whether the court has jurisdiction to hear the application within two days.

Afeez Matomi, counsel to Ahmadu Fintiri, governor of Adamawa, who was in court was not allowed to make submissions since the APC candidate brought the action through an ex-parte application.

Ekwo thereafter adjourned the suit till April 26.

The Adamawa governorship supplementary election was conducted on Saturday following the declaration of the March 18 poll as inconclusive over alleged irregularities.

The collation of election results was suspended till Sunday after results from 10 LGAs were announced.

However, INEC discontinued the exercise after Hudu Yunusa-Ari, the resident electoral commissioner, declared Binani, candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), as the winner.

Yunusa-Ari made the declaration when outstanding results were yet to be announced  but the electoral umpire subsequently described his action as null and void.

The electoral body said the declaration of a winner is the responsibility of the returning officer.

This made Binani approach the court with an ex-parte motion.

Binani applied for leave of the court to allow her to seek, an order of prohibition and certiorari removing to this court for the purpose of being set aside the administrative decision of the 1st respondent made on 16th April 2023 in respect of the declaration of the winner from the gubernatorial election of Adamawa state held on the 18th of March, 2023 and the supplementary election held on 15th April, 2023.

The APC candidate also wants an order preventing the 1st respondent, its agent, assign or any person acting on its behalf from taking any further steps towards the declaration of the winner from the gubernatorial election of Adamawa state held on the 18th of March and the supplementary election held on 15th April 2023, pending the determination of the application for judicial review.

She claimed that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Fintiri, resorted to stirring violence after she was declared the winner.

She averred that INEC staff were caught up in the violence and were manhandled which caused the electoral commission to cancel the initial declaration.

Binani submitted that INEC lacks the power to cancel an election result as such power is constitutionally vested in the election petition tribunal.
Danjuma Goje, senator representing Gombe central, has been expelled by the All Progressives Congress (APC) in his ward over alleged anti-party activities during the elections.

Tanimu Abdullahi, chairman, APC Kashere ward, Akko LGA of Gombe, had on March 22 inaugurated a five-member committee to probe Goje.

Speaking on Tuesday on the outcome of the probe, Abdullahi said the committee invited Goje to defend himself but the senator failed to show up.

He said the refusal of Goje to honour the invitation was deemed unbecoming of a party stalwart.

The ward chairman said the committee deliberated on the allegations against the senator, which include his alleged absence from APC campaigns in the state and association with members of the opposition.

Goje also hobnobbed with opposition parties and their candidates with the intent to undermine the success of the APC in Gombe state and Nigeria in general, Abdullahi said.

He openly supported opposition party candidates by hosting the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) governorship candidate, Mr Khamisu Mailantarki and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Akko House of Representatives candidate, Mrs Aishatu Ahmed, in his residence.

He offered them his support against the interest of his party the APC.

He said Goje was also accused of being a member of the PDP, alleging that his photo and name were on the ballot papers of the PDP senatorial primary election in 2022.

Abdullahi said upon review of the allegations against the senator, the 27 executive members of the APC in Kashere ward resolved to expel him in line with the provisions of the party.
The inspector-general of police (IGP), Usman Baba Alkali, has asked Mohammed Barde, commissioner of police in Adamawa, to withdraw from the state.

The IGP ordered Etim Equa, commissioner of police in Gombe to proceed to Adamawa immediately to provide election security in the state.

Muyiwa Adejobi, police spokesperson, made the announcement on Tuesday while briefing journalists in Abuja.

There have been calls for Barde to be redeployed from the state following the declaration of Aisha Binani Dahiru of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner of the governorship election in Adamawa.

Hudu Yunusa-Ari, the resident electoral commissioner (REC) of the Independent National Commission (INEC), on Sunday, announced Binani winner of the election while under police protection led by Barde.

Adejobi said the force led by Baba is committed to a free and fair election process.

The IGP has given a directive that the commissioner of police on election security in Adamawa state, CP Barde should pull out of Adamawa state and the commissioner of police in charge of Gombe state, CP Etim Equa to proceed to Adamawa immediately, to go and supervise the election and provide the necessary information and ensure that the process is a success, Adejobi said.

The Adamawa governorship supplementary election was conducted on Saturday following the declaration of the March 18 poll as inconclusive over alleged irregularities.

The collation of election results was suspended till Sunday after results from 10 LGAs were announced.

However, Yunusa-Ari declared Binani as the winner when the results from the remaining LGAs had not been announced.

INEC subsequently discontinued the exercise and described his action as null and void, adding that the declaration of a winner is the responsibility of the returning officer.

The development triggered protests in the state. Members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) staged a demonstration on Monday, marching through the streets of Yola, the capital of the state.

Meanwhile, INEC has commenced the collation of election results in the state.




The Northern Christian Elders Forum (NOSCEF), has called on President Muhammadu Buhari and the various security agencies to take decisive action against perpetrators of the killings in Benue, Taraba States and Southern Kaduna.





NOSCEF Chairman, Engineer Oyinehi Ejoga Inalegwu, in a statement on Monday evening in Kaduna, lamented the renewed onslaught by the terrorists and urged President Buhari to save Nigerians from the killings and destruction of valuables in different parts of the country.





The statement explained, NOSCEF is worried that the recent increasing wave of unchecked and persistent killings in Benue, Taraba and Southern Kaduna by bandits/ herdsmen is seeming to look like the parting gift of the Buhari administration to our people as it rounds up its 8-year rule.





The group expressed shock that with the security architecture in place, wanton killings of such magnitude are still being perpetuated without any counter from the security forces.





The statement called on the security forces to checkmate the ugly trend and go after those terrorizing, killing, maiming people and destroying properties of citizens in different parts of the country.





The group appealed to all Nigerians to pray for Gods intervention in bringing to an end the new wave of killings across the states, saying that the renewed killings and destruction of properties by the gunmen was so alarming.








The Ijumu All Progressives Congress (APC) Progressive Mind has called for the immediate suspension of Senator Smart Adeyemi, lawmaker representing Kogi West from the party.





Addressing a press conference in Lokoja on Tuesday, the President, Ijumu APC Progressive Minds, Comrade Kamaldeen Toyin, said the February 14 APC Governorship Primary provided an opportunity for the people to show the scorecard of Sen. Smart Adeyemi, reason why he failed woefully.





He lampooned the Kogi lawmaker for attacking Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State, stating that, it is his (Adeyemi) character to repay good with evil.





Continuing, Toyin said, After his ill-fated failure in the 2015 election where he was washed away by the Buhari hurricane: it was the Governor that rehabilitated the political destitute called Smart Adeyemi and brought his political career back to life.





We warned the Governor then about our son that he is a snake, that no matter how good you are to him, he will bite you. That is exactly what Senator Smart Adeyemi is doing now.





The reason the Governor gave for supporting Sen. Smart Adeyemi in 2019 was to push him for the Senate Presidency. It was a selfless Agenda to position Kogi State strategically for development. Today, Senator Smart Adeyemi has forgotten the past and living true to his character of ingratitude, he is known for whenever he loses a political contest





Friday APC Governorship Primary was the fairest and the freest ever.





Adeyemis desperate attempt to fault the process was borne out of his desperation to work with certain elements whose satanic agenda is to ensure our dear party is unable to present a candidate for the November 11 Governorship Poll in the state. With the successful conduct of the Governorship primary, their aim has been declared offside and defeated.





As witnessed in all the parts of the state, financial members came out massively in Ijumu to vote according to the dictates of their conscience. Smart Adeyemi, despite being from Ijumu Local Government Area, lost woefully to Ahmed Usman Ododo. It was a referendum on his woeful third term performance. It is therefore not expected that the fairly beaten child is crying.





We wish to call on the leadership of our party to investigate how non-members of the APC were hurriedly given membership cards strongly suspected to be fake. They could give fake cards, but they couldnt fabricate payment of dues for them. It is therefore ludicrous to display wanton desperation and falsehood that the process was faulty





Before the primary, Sen. Smart Adeyemis only joker was ethnicity. He claimed to be fighting for justice and fairness. He didnt remember justice and fairness when in 2015, after spending two terms in the Senate, he refused to allow the seat rotate to Yagba.





He fraudulently and violently seized the ticket of the PDP, only for Sen. Dino Melaye to fly on the Wings of the Buhari Tsunami to defeat him. In 2019, he was able to win the support of the Governor who rallied support for him to win the ticket of the party





In 2023, he wanted to go for his 4th Term, when Yagba Federal Constituency had not produced Senator. To him, such was just and fair. To Smart Adeyemi, it can only be considered fair when he wins. Loss means injustice to him. As members of the party in Ijumu Local Government Area, we commend the Governor for allowing a level playground for all the contestants. That process has produced the best candidate and we are confident of victory in November.
Former Kogi State Deputy Governor, Yomi Awoniyi has faulted the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, primary election that produced Dino Melaye as governorship candidate.

Awoniyi warned that Melayes emergence as PDP governorship candidate was dangerous.

Stressing that the primary election lacked credibility, Awoniyi claimed that Melayes votes were a product of a tainted delegates list.

A statement by Awoniyi said: Without an iota of doubt, I make bold to say that Senator Melayes victory is a pyrrhic one.

This victory portends great danger to the unity of our party and the prospect of winning the November 11 governorship election.

The primary that threw up Senator Melaye was flawed; 158 delegates, who emerged from the state ad hoc congress of March 29, 2023, were replaced by the woeful Senator Abdul Ningi Congress Committee, working in concert with Melayes enablers within the party hierarchy at the highest level.

Awoniyi argued that it was unfair to give an aspirant 158 votes in a contest for 739 votes with eight other aspirants.
Regional countries do not want to get locked into US positions, expert says

France's President Emmanuel Macron or any of the other Western European leaders saying the European countries should not be "American followers" is not surprising, an expert in the United States has said.

"Because the fact of the matter is the Europeans are not major security players in the 'Indo-Pacific' or the Asia-Pacific and in the Taiwan Strait," said Sourabh Gupta, a senior fellow at the Institute for China-America Studies in Washington. "They are very marginal players in the Asia-Pacific security architecture."

Macron stated in an interview on April 7 while returning from his state visit to China that Europe needs to decrease its reliance on the US and steer clear of being dragged into the conflict between China and the US regarding the Taiwan question.

Macron emphasized his vision of "strategic autonomy" for Europe, with France presumably highlighting that Europe's "great risk" is becoming entangled in crises that are not its own, hindering its ability to establish strategic autonomy.

"Mr Macron was speaking primarily on Taiwan. He has spoken, and the Europeans have spoken with regard to strategic autonomy in a broader context also," Gupta said.

"Macron was just stating the obvious that France and Europe need to have an independent position on Taiwan, particularly if there is a conflict, and that France and Europe should not be adding to the tensions or fanning the flames of tensions related to the 'Indo-Pacific' and related to the Taiwan Strait."

Gupta added that he was "shocked" by the reactions of some US and other Western press. "It's surprising how everybody thinks that Western Europe has become a camp follower of the US with regard to China, on a Taiwan Strait crisis particularly, which is not the case and has not been the case."

In Gupta's view, France stands out as unique because it is willing to take strong positions on strategic autonomy and has done so historically. But it is not the only "independent-minded" Western European country, even if they may not state it as strongly and publicly. They "need to have an independent position in this regard and try to be on the side of peace and diplomacy".

"The other Western European countries have very roughly similar positions," Gupta said. "They don't want to antagonize the United States, but that doesn't mean they are camp followers of the United States.

"And they would much prefer that Europe has a position that is somewhat dissociated from the American position vis-a-vis China because America is framing every issue vis-a-vis China in zero-sum terms. And they want to keep open the scope and space for cooperation with China on multiple fronts  environmental policy, digital policy, trade, and economic policy." Gupta gave an example: The digital policies of the European Union and China have a great amount of harmony and overlap.

According to Gupta's analysis, the US dealing with relations with China in zero-sum terms ends up forcing Europeans to have to choose between the US and China.

Europeans have been able to create a very integrated and interdependent community of states over the last 50 years, so recourse to violent means is something in the conduct of diplomacy that they frown upon, Gupta said.

"They prefer integrated solutions which bring people together and economies together. And to the extent that the US positions on many of these issues are much more bellicose, much more warlike, much more dependent on decoupling rather than coupling.

"It creates a dilemma for Europe."

A huge gap

He said Europeans are seeing a huge gap with the US opening in environment, digital, trade, and economics, and in flashpoint conflict issues where their positions are very different or at least there are large gaps.

He also said the US is becoming protectionist and populist in some ways, and getting isolationist. Besides, "the United States has for some time now begun to use military tools too frequently to resolve issues".

"They (European countries) don't want to get locked into US positions and be part of a larger Western camp and be taken for granted, especially when they are a $15-trillion economic actor and have power and can use the influence that comes from that power," Gupta said. "And I think this is the main driver for strategic autonomy or at least a certain strategic difference in approach from how the US approaches many of these issues."

Other observers have also recognized and noted differences between the positions of the US and Europe on China.

Elbridge Colby, a senior Pentagon official of former president Donald Trump administration, said: "The Europeans are pretty openly sending the signal that they're not willing to wage economic warfare against China. I think the (US) administration thinks Europeans would have our back in the event of a conflict, but that won't happen."

Tara Varma, a visiting fellow from France on foreign policy at the Brookings Institution in Washington, said, "There's a sense there needs to be a clear European position on China that goes beyond the trans-Atlantic relationship and exists on its own merits." She also commented that Macron's recent visit to China is a start to the conversation between France and China.

There has been a flurry of trips to Beijing by senior European officials in recent months. From April 13 to 15, EU's top foreign affairs official Josep Borrell joined a strategic dialogue with Chinese officials in Beijing. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen made a visit to China from April 5 to 7, at the same time as Macron, and they have some overlapping schedules.

Gupta said the EU and China may have been in a position to reengage since COVID-19 came. And Russia's special military operation in Ukraine "put a dampener" on EU-China relations, at least for a period of time. And these visits of European leaders since the end of last year were "very important" and showed that EU-China relations were moving forward on a good track.
Shehu Sani, a former Nigerian lawmaker has claimed that terrorists are also killing people in the northern part of Kaduna State.

Sani said that they werent made public because their leaders would not want to upset or damage the image of the Government they feel is their own.

He disclosed this in a post via his verified Twitter handle on Tuesday.

Recall that Saturday night attack by terrorists on Runji village in Southern part of Kaduna had 33 persons reported dead.

The attackers invaded the community in the night while the residents were asleep.

However, Sani said the world is only knowing of one side of the tragedy because some people had chosen to be silent.

He wrote, Muslims are also killed in the Northern part of Kaduna by terrorists daily.

But the leaders from the Northern part chose to remain silent in order not to upset or damage the image of the Government they feel is their own.

Thats why the World is only knowing of one side of the tragedy.




The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, on Tuesday, demanded the immediate announcement of the Adamawa State gubernatorial election results.





The partys Acting National Chairman, Umar Iliya Damagum, stated this during a press conference at the PDP National Secretariat, Abuja.





Recall that the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, had halted the collation of the supplementary election results held in the state on Saturday.





The move followed an unlawful declaration of the All Progressives Congress, APC candidate, Aishatu Dahiru, popularly known as Binani, as winner of the governorship election by Hudu Yunusa Ari, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC).





But the PDP Acting Chairman told journalists on Tuesday that the delay in collating the results is triggering tension in the entire state.





This continuing delay is heightening tension in Adamawa State and is capable of triggering a serious breakdown of Law and Order in the State, which is already overstretched as a result of the many perverse activities of the heavily compromised Adamawa State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC).





It is therefore imperative and urgent that INEC does the needful and save Adamawa State from serious crisis by directing the Returning Officer, Prof. Mohammed Mele, to immediately conclude collation, declare the final results and return the rightful winner, Governor Umaru Ahmadu Fintiri as the duly elected Governor of Adamawa State, Damagum said.
As legal fireworks continue at the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal, the camp of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has insisted that the President-elect, Bola Tinubu has been disqualified.

One of Atikus spokesmen, Daniel Bwala made the remark in response to a comment by the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Festus Keyamo, on moves to disqualify Tinubu.

Keyamo had said some people were searching the constitution daily on how to disqualify Tinubu.

He stressed that the ignorance displayed by those trying to disqualify Tinubu was very interesting.

Keyamo said those who were defeated during the last election were behind the plot to defeat Tinubu.

Reacting, Bwala said Tinubu was disqualified through the Electoral Act.

Tweeting, Bwala said: The spokesman said people are searching the constitution from sections 1 to 320 to find a ground to disqualify Tinubu. No no no. He has been disqualified from the electoral act before we even reach the constitution. By the time we reach the constitution it will be to convict him.




The Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom has said that the State Government invested heavily to ensure that commercial flights operations resumed in Makurdi.





Governor stated this Monday, April 17th, 2023 at the resumption of commercial flights to and from Makurdi via the Nigeria Air Force airport by Air Peace.





Speaking during the flag-off ceremony at the Civil Wing of the Makurdi Airport, Governor Samuel Ortom pointed out that it was no mean feat for the State Government to facilitate the resumption of air travel to and from the state, noting that the State Government has met stringent conditions stipulated by aviation agencies.





In his words, It has been a long journey that has been in the making. In fact, it has taken us the better part of two years to meet the stringent regulatory requirements for the resumption of Commercial Aviation in our State.





In the course of this journey, we have had extensive engagement with all the key players in the Aviation Industry, including the Federal Ministry of Aviation, Nigerian Air Force (NAF), Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Nigeria Airspace Management Authority (NAMA) and the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET), amongst others.





As a State Government, we have invested heavily in time, goodwill , and financial resources to help to meet the NCAAs rigorous requirements for the resumption of Commercial Aviation services here.





According to the Governor, the State Governments intervention at the airport included, Procurement and provision of an NCAA-approved Digital Airport Rescue Fire Fighting (ARFF) vehicle, along with training, equipping and testing of over 50 Fire staff; provision of a state-of-the-art Ambulance and trained health personnel for Emergency Rescue Services.





It also included Facilitating the Geodetic Survey of the Airport to ensure the Airport is included in ICAO maps so that pilots can rely on instruments (and not just their eyes) to fly into Makurdi; provisions of Airport Tarmac markings and related airside signages.





Governor Ortom explained that other requirements were Provision of operational vehicle for NAMA; strengthening of access control and security screening; provision of temporary spaces for Terminal operations; provision of a subsidy to defray Air Peace against any unanticipated route risks; amongst others.





He disclosed that We are also in the process of providing long-term accommodation for the NAMA personnel as well as a Tent to protect the ARFF truck and serve as a rest area for the Fire personnel, among other commitments.





The Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, Allen Onyema who spoke through the Grounds Operations Manager of Air Peace, Ayodeji Adeyemi, commended Governor Ortom for the determined efforts towards ensuring the resumption of Air Peace operations in the State.





The Assistant General Manager Aerodromes of the NCAA, Mr. Sylvanus Dakup and Mrs. Comfort Ogbuagwu of FAAN in separate goodwill messages congratulated Governor Ortom for his commitment and the investment of the State Government towards meeting all safety requirements for the resumption of commercial flights at the Makurdi Airport.





Earlier, Commissioner for Works and Transport, Engr. Jude Uungwa lauded the Governors resilience in ensuring the take-off of the operations of Air Peace in Makurdi, adding that the State Governor has also made available digital gadgets for safety operations as well as a 32-seater bus for the operations and logistics.




The All Progressives Congress, APC, candidate for Zamfara Central senatorial zone, Senator Kabiru Garba Marafa has accepted his defeat by the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, candidate, Hon. Ikira Aliyu Bilbis.





Marafa in a statewide broadcast on Monday commended the people of Zamfara Central senatorial zone for the opportunity afforded him to represent them between 2011 and 2019, wishing them well.





He further thanked all stakeholders and his supporters for standing firm for him and for giving him the courage to participate in the election, pointing out that he has learnt a lot in the new political dimension of the state.





The former senator, however, thanked Governor Bello Matawalle for standing by him to ensure that he contested the senatorial election for the third time.





He also thanked the party for its unflinching support to his senatorial candidature.





He also thanked the President-elect, Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Presidential Campaign Council for giving him the opportunity to lead the Tinubu campaign council in Zamfara State, stressing that the victory recorded by the APC during the Presidential election in Zamfara State was enough to demonstrate the power of the APC in Zamfara.





Marafa promised that he will never approach the court to challenge the result of the 2023 senatorial election, saying that the action will distract the senator-elect from doing his job, which he said would eventually affect the senatorial zone.
A New Jersey State Park police officer was arrested after authorities learned he allegedly made child sexual abuse materials, the Camden County Prosecutors Office announced Tuesday.

Patrick Kelly, 37, of Winslow Township, was arrested Monday at New Jersey State Park Police headquarters in Egg Harbor City.

NJDEP Press Officer Lawrence Hajna said Kelly was hired in 2012 and was suspended without pay on April 18, pending the adjudication of criminal charges. At the time of his suspension, Hajna said Kellys salary was $76,491.90, and the NJDEP is fully cooperating with the investigation.
As we approach the end of the fasting month of Ramadan, Muslims around the world look forward to Eid al Fitr, which is possibly this coming Saturday depending on the sighting of the moon.

During my childhood in Syria, Ramadan was a time for families and friends to gather at the breaking of the fast dinner and celebrate another day of the Islamic tradition. The practice is meant to increase awareness of self discipline and self control  no food or water from sunrise to sunset every day for an entire month.
BAYONNE  With the former Catholic school demolished and the New Jersey Turnpike potentially needing to access the property for construction, redevelopment of the former Marist High School property is likely still years in the future, if it is to happen at all.

In the meantime, however, the uptown property between Kennedy Boulevard and Newark Bay may become eligible for a temporary use  like a construction equipment depot  which could activate the property without any major construction.
Hudson County Sheriffs Officer Training Director Nichelle Luster may have retired as Union City police chief last year, but the city taxpayers are footing the bill to pay her more than $100,000 a year through 2024.

Hudson Countys first woman police chief is being paid $330,000 over three years for unused sick, vacation and compensation time accrued over her 28 years in the department, according to city records acquired by The Jersey Journal through an Open Public Records Act request.

The payout is commonly referred to as a boat check because the amount is enough to purchase a boat in retirement. Large payouts for long-time public workers continue, even after a law was enacted in 2010 to curtail the contractually obligated largesse.
A 26-year-old North Bergen man was struck and killed crossing Bergenline Avenue early Saturday morning, authorities said.

The victim, Diego Morales Jacobo, was on the east side of the roadway near 72nd Street when he crossed the street at approximately 2:50 a.m. and was struck by a Jeep Grand Cherokee traveling south on Bergenline Avenue, North Bergen police Capt. David Dowd said.

Morales Jacobo suffered a serious head injury in the crash and died Saturday evening at a local hospital, Dowd said.

According to the preliminary investigation, it appears the driver of the Grand Cherokee, 28-year-old Hasan Mousa of Garfield, may have been traveling faster that the 25-miles-per-hour-speed limit, Dowd said, noting that the investigation is ongoing. Mousa stayed at the scene after the crash.

Dowd said Mousa told police at the scene that he did not see Morales Jacobo enter the roadway before striking him. Dowd noted that the area of Bergenline Avenue is fairly well lit and Morales Jacobo had to cross the northbound lane before entering the southbound side, where he was struck.

Mousa currently has not been charged, but could be, pending the police investigation, Dowd said.

The incident is the third fatal crash in North Bergen this year and the sixth in the county in 2023. It is the first in the township this year on a local roadway.
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh (R) and Australian Minister for Trade and Tourism Don Farrell at their meeting in Hanoi on April 17. (Photo: VNA)

Farrell is on a working visit in Vietnam to co-chair the third Vietnam-Australia Economic Partnership Meeting together with Vietnamese Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Chi Dung, which took place on the same day.

Being informed by the guest on the sound outcomes of the meeting, PM Pham Minh Chinh recommended the minister to work closely with Vietnamese competent agencies to effectively implement the results and the Vietnam - Australia Enhanced Economic Engagement Strategy (EEES) announced in December 2021.

The host and guest reviewed and lauded achievements in the bilateral ties as this year marks the 50th founding anniversary of their diplomatic relations, which was upgraded to a strategic partnership in March 2018. In their meeting earlier this month, Vietnamese President Vo Van Thuong and Australian Governor-General David Hurley agreed to exchange views on the upgrade of the relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership at an appropriate time in the future.

Last year, bilateral trade hit 15.7 billion USD, up nearly 27% year on year. Vietnam is now Australias 10th biggest trading partner and Australia is Vietnams 7th largest trading partner.

Vietnam is implementing three strategic breakthroughs  institutional building, human resource and infrastructure development, PM Chinh said, noting that in the process, the country has always received support from Australia.

He took this occasion to thank Australia for assisting Vietnam in COVID-19 prevention and control and socio-economic recovery.

The PM proposed Australia make it easier for Vietnamese electronic, footwear, textile, and agricultural products to access its market and give a boost to a number of fields where both nations have strength such as education-training, digital economy, innovation, renewable energy, labour, tourism, people-to-people exchange, and high-tech farming.

He hoped that Farrell, in his post, will make contributions to fostering the bilateral trade and cooperation towards effectiveness and practical outcomes, helping the two sides fully tap their potential.

PM Pham Minh Chinh expressed his wish that Australia will share experience to help Vietnam build an independent, self-reliant economy in association with extensive and effective international integration, particularly in the fields of innovation, capital support, technology, personnel training, and management experience serving such areas as digital economy, green economy, circular economy, energy transition, and climate change.

He asked the minister to convey his invitation to the Australian PM to visit Vietnam at an appropriate time.

Agreeing with the host's suggestions, Farrell said he will collaborate with Vietnamese ministries and agencies to realise the PMs wishes.

He affirmed that Australia wants Vietnam to play a more important role in the countrys trade partner diversification strategy and act as a bridge to promote its relationship with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)./.
Four people face shoplifting and other charges in Middlesex County after their alleged getaway vehicle crash during an escape attempt with a police officer inside, authorities said Tuesday.

Police were called about 3:45 p.m. Sunday to Ulta Beauty on Route 18 in East Brunswick on a report of a shoplifting in progress, according to police.

Responding officers observed the suspects SUV traveling south on the highway, discarding security tags as they drove along the highway, police said in a statement.

The SUV was later found by police on Main Street near Old Bridge Turnpike. As officers arrived, one suspect fled but was caught after a brief foot chase, police said.

As a patrolman reached into the SUV to remove the keys, the driver accelerated, causing the passenger door to close and trapping the officer in the vehicle, according to East Brunswick Police Chief Frank LoSacco.

The SUV struck a brick wall at the corner of Main Street and Old Bridge Turnpike before striking a traffic signal and knocking the device over, LoSacco said in a statement. The remaining three suspects were arrested at the scene.

Inside the SUV, police found $7,500 worth of stolen merchandise along with a 9mm handgun, LoSacco said, noting that the SUV displayed a temporary registration tag that belonged to another vehicle.

Ryan R. Hill, 21, of The Bronx, New York, was charged with robbery, shoplifting, two counts of kidnapping and eluding.

Frederick A. Barnes, 31, of Louisville, Kentucky, was charged with shoplifting, conspiracy, false government documents, and a weapons offense.

A 40-year-old Newark man was charged with shoplifting, resisting arrest, and hindering for allegedly destroying evidence. A 35-year-old East Orange man was charged with shoplifting.

LoSacco said the four suspects were taken to the Middlesex County Jail. The incident remains under investigation, which may result in additional charges, LoSacco said.

Thank you for relying on us to provide the local news you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription.

Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com.
A Middlesex County man has been sentenced to 13 years in prison for the gunpoint robbery of a pizza delivery driver four years ago in Perth Amboy, authorities said Monday.

Tyjier Summers, 27, of Old Bridge, pleaded guilty in January to first-degree armed robbery and was sentenced last week in Superior Court of Middlesex County.

The sentence will be served consecutive to a 12-year term Summers received in 2019 for prior robbery offenses, and Summers must serve 85% of his sentence before being eligible for parole, Middlesex County Prosecutor Yolanda Ciccone said in a statement.

The delivery driver was robbed about 11 p.m. on May 13, 2019. The victim told police he was delivering pizza to a home on Rector Street when a man fitting Summers description approached him with a handgun, which was later recovered, authorities said.

Summers was arrested after a foot chase, the prosecutor said.

Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyAttrino. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
A former firefighter has been sentenced to 37 months in prison for participating in a $50 million prescription medication fraud, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger said.

John Sher, 40, of Margate, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud in July 2022, admitting to being one of six involved in the conspiracy, prosecutors said.

Former pharmaceutical salesman William Hickman, of Northfield, was the leader of the scheme and recruited and compensated government employees, including Sher, to receive unnecessary compound prescription medications, officials said.
There are six million names.

Today, a Jewish congregation in Westfield will recite some of them to commemorate Yom HaShoah, an occasion to mark those who perished in the Holocaust.

They cant read them all.

We would have to read for 900 days straight to get even close to six million, said Rabbi Ethan Prosnit of Temple Emanu-El, speaking of the enormity of it.

Yom HaShoah, known as Holocaust Remembrance Day, comes on the date of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising. It is a national day of mourning in Israel and observed by Jewish communities worldwide, recalling those who were murdered while honoring the survivors.

But as time goes on and those who gave witness to Hitlers genocide pass away, some fear the knowledge of those horrors has begun fading amid a new tide of antisemitism.

One of the difficult situation we have is that the population of survivors, who we have always relied on to give testimony, are passing on, said Rabbi David Levy, New Jersey director for American Jewish Committee. My dad was one of them and he passed on seven years ago.

A recent AJC survey found that some people did not know that Auschwitz was a death camp. Only a little more than half knew that six million Jews were murdered in the Holocaust. Most had never visited a Holocaust memorial or museum.

It tells us we have a lot of work to do on Holocaust education for the next generation, said Levy. Not just about its literature, but the historical facts, at a time that antisemitism has been growing both here and around the world.

There is a serious correlation between knowledge and antisemitism, he said. Holocaust knowledge is more important than ever if we want to understand the current rise of antisemitism.

In New Jersey, there were 408 reported antisemitic incidents in 2022  the highest number ever recorded by the Anti-Defamation League in the state and the third-highest number recorded in any state across the country last year. In one high-profile episode that triggered a statewide FBI warning and prompted police to increase security around synagogues and Jewish schools, an 18-year-old New Jersey man was arrested and charged with posting on social media a manifesto containing threats to attack a synagogue and Jewish people.

Nationwide, the ADL said there were 3,697 antisemitic incidents throughout the United States last year, a 36% increase over the number of such incidents in 2021, the highest number on record since ADL began tracking antisemitic incidents in 1979. It marked the third time in the past five years that the year-end total hit new records for crimes directed at Jews living in the United States.

On Monday, Gov. Phil Murphy signed legislation requiring the state Commissioner of Education, in conjunction with the New Jersey Commission on Holocaust Education, to survey public schools in the state regarding instruction on the Holocaust and genocide. The administration said the survey will measure how each school district is meeting the states current mandate on instruction of the Holocaust and genocide in all elementary and secondary school students.

By taking this action today, we are honoring the memory of the six million Jews and the millions of others murdered by the Nazis during the Holocaust, Murphy said in a statement timed to Yom HaShoah. As we witness truth being stripped from education systems in other states and antisemitism on the rise across the country, our responsibility to future generations must be to lead by example and defend the promise with which our nation was founded  equality and freedom for all.

The governor said the law guarantees that New Jersey school children will be prepared to learn from the mistakes of history.

As each generation is born, time distances us from the events of the Holocaust and fewer survivors are able to share their personal accounts, Murphy said, echoing the concerns of Levy.

But its not education alone that worries Levy, who said social media has played a huge role in fueling hatred, as has the partisan divide that marks the country.

A divided society allows for the percolating up of hate that was underneath the surface, he remarked.

Still, it sometimes surprises him.

His father, who managed to escape Germany with his parents, died just before the infamous Aug. 11, 2017 march in Charlottesville, Va., where neo-Nazis, Ku Klux Klansmen and other white supremacists, many with torches, chanted Jews will not replace us. As he read the news accounts on his phone of what had happened while returning by plane from his fathers funeral, he recalled remarking to his wife, Im glad Dad didnt live to see this...to see people marching with torches spewing Nazi rhetoric in the streets of America.

In Israel, Yom HaShoah brings the country together, united at least for a moment, in shared grief. As air raid sirens wail, cars come to a stop on the highway and their drivers get out without a word. People gather silently on sidewalks. Everything comes to a complete standstill.

Its an incredibly powerful moment, said Levy, who was in Jerusalem when he experienced it first-hand. An entire country committing itself to saying this can never happen again to our people or to anyone else.

The day should be a reminder that fighting hate is a constant effort that everyone must be involved in, whether its antisemitism or other hatred, he said.

If there is one lesson on this day, it is that we have to work together to combat this toxic hatred, he said. Because if we dont, the results can be horrific.

__

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Ted Sherman may be reached at tsherman@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @TedShermanSL
An Essex County man arrested during a statewide investigation of auto thefts as he ran from a stolen Lamborghini containing guns, ammunition and three juveniles, has pleaded guilty to a weapons offense, authorities said Tuesday.

Quincy Doctor, 23, of Irvington, was sentenced to three years in state prison with parole eligibility after one year. Doctor pleaded guilty last year to second-degree unlawful possession of a weapon, according to Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin.

Platkin said Doctor was arrested in May 2022 during an investigation by the New Jersey State Police Auto Theft Task Force.
A 17-year-old youth died of his injuries after he was shot in the head inside a Gloucester County home Sunday afternoon, according to the county prosecutors office.

Authorities have charged an 18-year-old male, who described himself as a friend of the victim and claimed the shooting was an accident, according to court documents.

Monroe Township police officers responded to a home on Chestnut Street in Williamstown around 3:30 p.m. Sunday for a reported shooting and found the victim with a single gunshot wound to the head.

He was taken to Jefferson Washington Township Hospital, then transported to a Jefferson facility in Philadelphia, where he was later pronounced dead, the prosecutors office said.

When police arrived at the home, they found Nasir D. Robinson-Sanders, 18, of Williamstown, at the entrance to the residence holding a .40-caliber Bersa handgun, according to the affidavit of probable cause filed with the charges.

He was ordered to drop the gun, then taken into custody, police said.

The victims mother told investigators she was asleep in her bedroom upstairs when she heard a loud bang downstairs and went to investigate.

In her sons room, she found Robinson-Sanders and saw her son laying on his stomach and bleeding profusely, according to police. She tried to treat his wound while calling 911.

Robinson-Sanders told the mom he shot his friend and she told police the alleged gunman was upset before he ran from the residence, prosecutors office Detective Eric Bailey stated in the affidavit.

In an interview with investigators, Robinson-Sanders said he brought the gun to the victims home after retrieving it from his fathers truck, according to the affidavit.

Robinson-Sanders said he and the victim were playing around with the gun throughout the afternoon.

The pair were about to leave the home to meet another friend when Robinson-Sanders said he tried to clear the handgun and ensure it was not loaded. He removed the weapons magazine and racked the weapon, ejecting a live round, he told police.

While he believed the gun was then empty, he pulled the trigger to make sure and the weapon fired, striking the victim, Bailey wrote in the affidavit.

Robinson-Sanders is charged with second-degree counts of reckless manslaughter and unlawful possession of a handgun without a permit. When reached Tuesday, his public defender said he could not comment on the case.

Robinson-Sanders remains in Salem County Correctional Facility pending a detention hearing.

Authorities did not release the victims name, but a GoFundMe created by a friend of the family identified him as Cayden Jones. The funds raised will be used for funeral costs and other expenses, the organizer stated in the post. The effort had raised more than $5,800 as of Tuesday afternoon.

Anyone with information about the case is asked to contact prosecutors office Detective Eric Bailey at 856-384-5685 or Monroe Police Detective Kristyn Morris at 856-728-9800, ext. 577.

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Matt Gray may be reached at mgray@njadvancemedia.com.
There are tangible sources of pride that come with living in this state  particularly those related to our lifestyle, culture, or urbanity -- but never has a New Jerseyan ever boasted that our governor parks his pants every day on a $5,300 desk chair as he works behind a $19,000 desk after walking across a $114,000 antique carpet just outside his office.

No one doubted that the renovation of our 231-year-old Statehouse was long overdue, and nobody questions that historic buildings are especially costly to restore.

But when the job is done and its time to fill these historic spaces with the functional tools of government, it is hard to understand why Gov Murphy would need a feast of creature comforts that would make Imelda Marcos blush, because a half-million dollars in office furnishings  while undeniably spectacular  are an audacious stroke of self-indulgence.

Wait, dont say it: Rehabs happen, the greener the better  we all should support renovations that improve a buildings resiliency and reduces its energy waste. And by all accounts, the architectural team did a masterful job of restyling the great building in the idiom of Jersey tradition.

But $486,000 in taxpayer money just to furnish just three rooms, including $127,000 for the office belonging to an unelected  albeit dedicated -- first lady?

Murphys team explained that historic buildings require Edwardian furnishings, which begs a question: Seriously?

We all want the governor to be comfortable in his workspace, and for a former Wall Streeter whose net worth is somewhere north of $50 million, hes doesnt come across as the kind of guy who swanks about material things.

Still, he will rest his elbows on an $19,000 George II-style desk. Shouldnt we have at least discussed putting the Woodrow Wilson desk back in circulation, after 3 years in mothballs?

Its really just a harmless hunk of mahogany with a brass plaque that can easily be pried off so we dont have to read Wilsons name anymore, and the $19,000 we save in taxpayer funds can go toward more frivolous things, such as boilers, windows, HVAC systems, doors, and roofs for all those urban schools that dont have $66,000 curtains.

Take those shoes off before you step on that carpet. Renovated N.J. Statehouse furnishings for Gov. Murphy, first lady offices cost nearly $500K , records show https://t.co/d9BAwTbrcN  Matt Arco (@MatthewArco) April 16, 2023

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The renovation of the second oldest statehouse in the country will always contain the stench of duplicity, even if it was critical. Its foundation was crumbling. Roughly one third of the building didnt even have a working HVAC system. There were no fire suppression systems in some areas. The magnificent skylight was coated with plaster gunk. The ADA violations for disabled access were too numerous to count.

Gov. Christie famously lamented that windows are literally falling out of this building.

But the former Governor took a hit for this project, because when it was proposed, the state was broke and the cost never received taxpayer approval. Christie found a way around that, with an opaque and complicated funding arrangement that included $300 million in bonds issued by the Economic Development Authority.

That wasnt the only shady part: The state board that approved this project was comprised of eight legislative staffers and Christie aides. Allowing such a massive expense to be left in the hands of eight people appointed by the governor and his political allies is quintessentially Jersey.

This was in 2017, an election year, so there was blowback from both sides  including some from Republican nominee Kim Guadagno, who argued that We simply do not have the money to turn the Statehouse into the Palace of Versailles.

The former lieutenant governor may have been exaggerating. We can leave the final verdict up to the taxpayer, if one is lucky enough to sneak a peek at the carved credenzas and assorted tchotchkes and bask in the ostentatious vibe of governmental gravitas that pervades the joint.

Or perhaps the taxpayer will just call it another embarrassing example of New Jerseys government excess. That cant be ruled out, either.

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Gov. Phil Murphy is hitting the road again.

The governor will leave New Jersey Tuesday afternoon for Detroit, to attend another National Governors Association conference, his office said. Hell return Thursday afternoon.

Murphy, who is chairman of the NGA, will host a roundtable about youth mental health along with Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. The event is similar to the ones Murphy hosted in California and Utah.
Editors Note: his story has been updated with a comment from the attorney representing Garry N. Bunting.T

A Bethlehem man is accused of attempted sex assault and endangering the welfare of a child in a case involving two minors, authorities said.

Garry N. Bunting, 31, of the 900 block of Wyandotte Street, is charged with one count of second-degree attempted sexual assault; two counts of third-degree attempted endangering the welfare of a child; and one count third-degree endangering the welfare of a child. The Warren County Prosecutors Office filed the charges against Bunting on Monday.

The prosecutors office said in January 2022 investigators were already onto Bunting in a separate case, involving human trafficking of a minor, sexual assault and related offenses. In that case, Bunting is accused of transporting a minor from Pennsylvania to New Jersey to engage in multiple sex acts after luring the victim over a social media application.

In connection with the January 2022 case, investigators seized all of Buntings electronic devices, police said.

A cellphone revealed various communication between Bunting and a witness, in which he allegedly discussed engaging two minors in sex acts, authorities said. One of the minors reported to authorities being exposed to sexual activity between the individual and Bunting, the prosecutors office said.

Bunting was taken to the Warren County jail, pending his First Appearance in Warren County Superior Court in Belvidere. The Warren County Prosecutors Office Special Victims Unit and the Greenwich Township Police Department assisted in the investigation.

Donald E. Souders, Jr., the Easton-based attorney representing Bunting told lehighvalleylive.com Tuesday morning his client is to be presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Souders is yet to see evidence presented by the state and therefore, he said commenting further would be premature at this point in the case.

It is our intent to present a vigorous defense when that opportunity presents itself, Souders said.

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The trio of New Jersey wildfires that burned thousands of acres last week have long since been brought under control, but the state remains in the midst of peak fire season with a red flag fire risk warning issued Tuesday for nine counties.

The three wildfires last week in West Milford, Manchester and Little Egg Harbor Township were by far the largest among the 517 fires that have burned 7,608 acres in the state, officials said Tuesday.

Peak fire season runs from mid-March through May so New Jersey is far from in the clear, the state Forest Fire Service said.

The red flag warning issued by the National Weather Service is in effect until 8 p.m. Tuesday for Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, Monmouth, Ocean and Salem counties.

The combination of dry conditions, low humidity and strong gusty winds will result in favorable conditions for the rapid spread of fires this afternoon for portions of the region, the National Weather Service said.

Shortly after the red flag warning was issued, the Forest Fire Service announced at 1:30 p.m. reports of a wildfire off Route 542 and River Road in Washington Township, Burlington County.

A wildfire in Little Egg Harbor that burned 1607 acres was 100% contained by Saturday morning, officials said.New Jersey Forest Fire Service

Greg McLaughlin, the chief of the state Forest Fire Service, said continuing dry conditions could lead to additional fires in the coming weeks.

The general sense is that fire season is summer, McLaughlin said in a conference call with reporters Tuesday. Fire season is now. Its a busy, active fire season, but its not historic.

Officials also emphasized that even though the three fires from last week are under control, none are completely out nor will they be for the foreseeable future.

In this photo provided by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, a massive 2,500-acre forest fire burns in Ocean County, N.J., early Wednesday, April 12, 2023, as firefighters battle the blaze. (New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection via AP) APAP

Theyre still burning, said Bill Love, Assistant Section Firewarden for the state Forest Fire Service on a conference call with reporters Tuesday. Until we get a significant, appreciable amount of rain, the fires wont be out. There can be smoldering anywhere along the fire line. We could be be mopping up for weeks.

The largest of the fires  a 3,859 acre blaze in Manchester on federal, state and private property  is also being investigated by the Ocean County Prosecutors Office and the Ocean County Sheriffs Office.

The West Milford and Little Egg fires also remain under investigation.

Officials from those agencies are working to pinpoint where the fire originated, according to McLaughlin.

The Manchester fire was so large that residents 2 miles away found burning embers on their property, the chief said.

In the West Milford fire, embers traveled a half-mile across Echo Lake and started spot fires, he added.

Very dry conditions so far this year, a lack of snowfall during the winter and an extended warm season brought on by climate change have contributed to the higher than normal number of fires this year, the Forest Fire Service said.

At about this time last year, the Forest Fire Service had recorded 327 wildfires that burned 471 acres. Around mid-April 2021, there were 373 fires that scorched about 508 acres, officials said.

Fire officials implemented stage 3 campfire restrictions for Burlington Monmouth, Ocean, Middlesex(south of the Raritan River) and Mercer counties (except Hopewell Township) due to high due to heightened wildfire risk.

Fires in wooded areas are off limits unless contained in an elevated stove using only propane, natural gas or electricity. No charcoal fires are allowed.

There are no fire restrictions currently in place north of the Raritan River or south of the Mullica River since those areas received a substantial amount of rain over the weekend.

Most of North Jersey and South Jersey are considered abnormally dry, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. No rain is in the forecast for New Jersey for the next four days, the weather service said. There is a slight chance of showers on Saturday.

Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com.

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Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son (R) and his Austrian counterpart Alexander Schallenberg. (Photo: VNA)

Schallenberg, who is on Vietnam visit from April 16-18 at the invitation of Minister Bui Thanh Son, hailed Vietnams increasingly important role and position in the region and the world. He affirmed that Austria expects to reinforce ties with Vietnam, its top partner in Southeast Asia.

The two ministers expressed their delight at the development of bilateral ties over the past five decades, especially in politics-diplomacy, economy-trade, development cooperation and culture.

Agreeing that there remains room to beef up bilateral ties, they agreed to facilitate all-level visits, especially those at high level via the Party, State and people-to-people exchange channels.

They vowed to step up cooperation between the two foreign ministries and mutual support between the two countries at multilateral forums and international organisations such as the United Nations, the Asia-Europe Meeting and the ASEAN-EU cooperation framework.

Minister Bui Thanh Son lauded Austria for always being one of the top 10 trade partners of Vietnam in Europe over the past years. Despite COVID-19, two-way trade still hit 2.79 billion USD last year.

He suggested that both sides should work closely together, fully and effectively tap the benefits of the Europe-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA). He also encouraged Austrian businesses to increase investments in Vietnam, particularly in areas of their strength such as infrastructure, renewable energy, new technology and semiconductor production.

The host proposed Austria soon complete the ratification of the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA) and push forward the European Commission (EC)s early removal of yellow card warning on Vietnams aquatic products.

Hailing Vietnam as a vibrant economy in Southeast Asia, Schallenberg wished for enhanced bilateral collaboration in green technology, transportation, health care and infrastructure.

He also took note of Minister Bui Thanh Sons proposal regarding the early approval of the EVIPA by the Austrian Parliament and support for ECs early lifting of the yellow card warning on seafood exports from Vietnam.

Host and guest discussed expanding joint cooperation in new areas like national defence-security, labour, and vocational training.

On the occasion, Son thanked the Austrian Government for creating favourable conditions for the Vietnamese community to settle down in the European country.

The Austrian minister promised to continue assisting the Vietnamese community in upholding their role as a bridge for developing the friendship and cooperation between Vietnam and Austria in the most effective manner.

On regional and global issues of shared concern, they underlined the importance of ensuring security, safety and freedom of navigation and overflight in the East Sea, as well as settling disputes through peaceful means in line with international law, especially the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)./.
Former Yankees prospect Raimfer Salinas  once touted as a five-tool player with pro potential  was suspended for 80 games on Monday after a positive test for the performing-enhancing substance Nandrolone, an anabolic steroid.

Salinas, 22, was released by the Yankees Class-A Tampa Tarpons on Thursday.

BUY YANKEES TICKETS: STUBHUB, VIVID SEATS, TICKETMASTER

In 2017, when Salinas signed with the Yankees for a $1.85 million bonus as one of the top international free agents available at the time, MLB.com provided this scouting report:

Hes also a sound defender and his plus arm is already an asset. Salinas is already a decent runner, whether its on the base paths or roaming the outfield.  At the plate, Salinas has shown an advanced approach and good bat speed. Hes been able to hit to all fields while also showing some home run power. Salinas overall tools package could land him in the middle of the lineup one day as a possible run producer. Scouts like his makeup and his overall confidence in his abilities. ... Has the potential to be a legitimate five-tool player and an impact player in the near future.

Want to bet on MLB?

See the best NJ Sports Betting sites

Salinas went 0-for-4 with an RBI groundout against Lakeland on April 8 in his only game this season. He hit .225 with five homers and 25 RBIs in 64 games for Tampa last year.

He split 2018 with the Dominican Summer League Yankees and the Gulf Coast Yankees but a broken ring finger ended his season early. Salinas spent 2019 with the GCL team and 2021 with the Florida Complex League Yankees.

Salinas hit .236 overall during his minor-league career with 14 home runs and 71 RBIs. He is one of six players who have been disciplined under the minor league program this year: pitchers Richard Cardoza (Mets), Jeremy Castro (Royals), Ricardo Estrada (Giants), Jose Serrano (Astros), Miguel Gonzalez (Diamondbacks), and infielder Christian Suarez (Braves). All six were suspended for 60 games.

The AP contributed to this report.

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Showers this morning becoming less numerous during the afternoon hours. High 49F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%..

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People wearing traditional Punjabi attire sing folk songs and perform folk dances during festival Baisakhi in a wheat farm in Amritsar district of India's northern Punjab state, April 13, 2023. Baisakhi is one of the most popular festivals celebrated in the Indian state of Punjab to mark the harvest. (Str/Xinhua)

A child in traditional folk attire is seen during the Gajan festival on the outskirts of Agartala, capital city of India's northeastern state of Tripura, April 13, 2023. (Str/Xinhua)

People wearing traditional Punjabi attire sing folk songs and perform folk dances during festival Baisakhi in a wheat farm in Amritsar district of India's northern Punjab state, April 13, 2023. Baisakhi is one of the most popular festivals celebrated in the Indian state of Punjab to mark the harvest. (Str/Xinhua)

People wearing traditional Punjabi attire sing folk songs and perform folk dances during festival Baisakhi in a wheat farm in Amritsar district of India's northern Punjab state, April 13, 2023. Baisakhi is one of the most popular festivals celebrated in the Indian state of Punjab to mark the harvest. (Str/Xinhua)

Editor: WXY
Its going to be a big night in the small town of Westwego. Sala Avenue will be closed on Saturday night for a street party, with three art exhibit openings, complimentary cocktails, live music, a red-carpet reception for all, and maybe even fire dancers.

Youve probably heard of the organizer, artist Josh Wingerter. Hes the graffiti-style artist that bombed Frenchmen Street with stencil paintings at the start of the coronavirus lockdown. Wingerter produced a socially distanced, outdoor art gallery that provoked smiles at a time when smiles were rare.

Among his paintings were a few images that were instant pandemic icons. He painted a portrait of Louis Armstrong with a COVID-19 mask stretched over the bell of his horn. He depicted Wonder Woman as a vaccine-armed nurse. And he created tongue-in-cheek, toilet paper roll still lifes.

By the end of the coronavirus era, Wingerter was a star.

Help along the way

Wingerter calls the Saturday night block party PATHSCROSSED. Its meant as a tribute to all the artists whove contributed to his successful career.

Keith Eccles, the Higgins High art teacher who encouraged Wingerter to pay more attention to art and less to girls and sports, will be on hand.

So will the artist known as Sloth. Wingerter said that in 2014 he and his pal Sloth hyped each other up and decided to quit their straight jobs and strike out as full-time artists. It was a life-changing moment.

Plus there will be other artists  Dago, Paco Lane, Monique Lorden and Aubrey McGuire  who generally bolstered Wingerters desire to make a living doing what he loves.

Figuring out how to make a living as an artist is the underlying theme of the PATHSCROSSED party.

Go west, young artists
Trevor Abney died April 9 of complications from the cerebral gunshot wound he sustained when a man in a pedicab opened fire on him and a fellow officer as they patrolled the French Quarter. The injury prohibited him from returning to his assignment in the Eighth District. He died at his Slidell-area home.
The Georgia man suspected of shooting up a New Orleans police patrol SUV in the French Quarter on Friday, striking an officer in the face, was transferred from a hospital to the parish jail's mental health ward late Saturday, according to officials.

Investigators booked Donnell Hassell, 44, with two counts of attempted murder of police because there were two officers in the cruiser he allegedly targeted, criminal court records show. He would receive a minimum of 20 years and a maximum of 50 years in prison on each count if ultimately convicted as accused.

Orleans Parish Magistrate Court Commissioner Robert Blackburn set Hassell's bail at $1.5 million on Sunday afternoon. Hassell, who did not appear for the brief bail hearing, was being housed at the Orleans Parish lockup's mental health ward, Public Defender's Office attorney Lauren Anderson said in court.

Neither Anderson nor Blackburn elaborated on why Hassell was being detained in that section of the jail.

According to police, Hassell was wearing a black motorcycle vest while riding in the back of a pedicab across Royal Street on St. Philip Street when he suddenly fired a pistol into a marked police cruiser at the intersection at about 4:30 p.m. Friday. The unsuspecting pedicab driver crashed into a sidewalk in a panic, fleeing for cover while Hassell ran off.

Officer Trevor Abney, 31, was struck in his left cheek just below his eye. Glass from the shattered drivers side window of the cruiser cut the arm of Officer Brooke Duncan IV.

Other officers chased Hassell six blocks to the intersection of Decatur and St. Peter streets, near the Joan of Arc statue. WWL-TV obtained surveillance video of the end of the chase that suggests Hassell hid behind the wall of a building then tried to run again as officers got closer. He suddenly dropped to his right side, raised his arms and was handcuffed by officers arriving with pistols pointed at him.
Carl Stewart had just dropped eight students off from his school bus in Central City Monday afternoon when he heard gunshots. He yelled for his remaining passengers to get down, just as he saw through his rearview mirror that the vehicles back glass window had been shattered by a bullet.

The bus, which had another 15 Sophie B. Wright High School students inside, had been shot at least twice. No one was injured, and Stewart returned to the school's Napoleon Avenue campus where parents picked up their children, the New Orleans Police Department confirmed Tuesday.

School Principal Sharon Clark said the students, who are between ninth and 12th grade, were on their way home at Magnolia and 6th streets in Central City when the bus was shot about 3:40 p.m.

The NOPD said it was investigating the crime as aggravated criminal damage, and no arrests had been made as of 2:50 p.m. Tuesday. Clark said Tuesday she has been doing her best to comfort parents and children.

What if a bullet would have hit one of those kids? she said. I would have been burying a kid today.

Clark added that the school had grief counselors available on campus.

Something has to be done to keep our kids safe, Clark said. This is horrible.

Stewart, who has driven school buses in Orleans Parish for 33 years, said Monday wasnt the first time he had encountered gunfire while driving a bus filled with children. He remembered a time decades ago when he saw shots fired in front of him and changed the bus route to avoid it.

I saw it ahead of me, so I just stopped, Stewart said of the prior incident. My bus wasnt in danger the first time.

This time, he said, the screams from the students made made him fear a child had been hurt, but luckily, everyone was safe.

Id hate to hear somebodys child die on the school bus, Stewart said. Thats the kind of world we look like were getting to.
With homelessness returning to pre-pandemic levels and encampments sprouting up along major thoroughfares, New Orleans-area leaders and federal officials on Monday announced new funding they say will result in dramatic improvements for hundreds of people currently living on the streets.
Three years ago, New Orleanswith the help of coronavirus-related HUD and FEMA fundstemporarily solved its homelessness problem. Now the encampments are back. What changed, and what's being done about the mounting issue?
BEIJING, April 17 (Xinhua) -- On Sept. 13, 2021, Gao Zhizhou experienced an unforgettable stroke of serendipity. While he was buried amid flourishing crops, busy managing weeds, he was surprised by an unexpected visitor -- President Xi Jinping.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, was on his way to Gaoxigou, a once-impoverished village in the northwestern province of Shaanxi, for inspection.

While driving alongside the road, the sprawling farmland under the early autumn sun caught Xi's attention, prompting him to stop by the fields.

There, he picked up earheads of millet and squeezed corn to check the growth of autumn grain. This is where Xi chatted with Gao and his other fellow villagers.

"Have you intercropped the grain with soybeans?" Xi asked.

"Not this year. There was not much rain," Gao replied.

"The general secretary understood our dialect. And he knows about the lives of us farmers very well," the villager recounted his encounter with Xi.

It is not at all surprising that Xi is familiar with the local dialect and the life of a farmer.

In 1969, during his teenage years, Xi moved to Liangjiahe, an impoverished Shaanxi village about 150 km away from Gaoxigou. He lived and worked there for seven years and witnessed firsthand how the villagers struggled to provide for themselves. At that time, he wanted more than anything to make it possible for the villagers to "have meat on their plates."

During his inspection trip to Gaoxigou, Xi expressed great satisfaction in seeing the significant improvements in the lives of rural communities living on the Loess Plateau.

Thanks to the decades-long ecological conservation efforts led by the CPC, Gaoxigou, which was once marred by severe soil erosion, is now covered in lush green vegetation. Trees, grass and crops now thrive on what was once barren land, and the days of food scarcity for Gaoxigou's residents are now a thing of the past.

"Today, we can have white flour, rice and meat if we want," the villagers told Xi.

Since assuming the Party's top job in November 2012, Xi had been to farmlands during multiple inspection trips across the country, setting an example of conducting fact-finding research. Over the years, his initial goal of ensuring that locals had enough to eat has evolved into a more ambitious vision of securing China's food supply.

During last year's "two sessions," Xi visited national political advisors and called for adopting an all-encompassing approach to food, which was also written into the report to the 20th CPC National Congress last October.

"While ensuring grain supply, we must also guarantee an effective supply of various food items, including meat, vegetables, fruits, and aquatic products. None of them should be lacking," Xi told the political advisors, emphasizing that food security is an issue that goes beyond the cultivation of crops alone.

Visiting the Yazhou Bay Seed Laboratory while inspecting south China's Hainan Province in April 2022, Xi stressed the importance of pursuing agricultural technological breakthroughs to achieve self-dependence in the seed sector. "We should rely on Chinese seeds to ensure China's food security," he said.

During his inspection to south China's Guangdong Province last week, Xi visited a mariculture base where he called for elaborate efforts in developing the breeding industry as it serves as the foundation for modern agriculture and aquaculture development. He underscored the importance of making use of both land and sea resources to produce food for the people.

The latest trip followed the launch of a Party-wide campaign to conduct in-depth research and study to identify and resolve major problems that could hamper China's high-quality development and modernization drive.

Editor: WXL
Mandi Mitchell, president and CEO of Lafayette Economic Development Authority, from left, Gov. John Bel Edwards, Avery Hamilton, whose ancestor was killed in the days leading up to the 1873 Colfax Massacre and Dean Woods, whose ancestor fought for white supremecy and participated in the massacre, unveil a memorial to those who were killed and injured Thursday, April 13, 2023, in Colfax, La.
* The launch of the cross-border passenger service of the China-Laos Railway, a major part of the trans-Asian railway network, has been hailed as a historic event for Laos, as the landlocked country has realized its dream of becoming a land-linked hub in the region and beyond.

* Thonglor Duangsavanh, editor-in-chief of local daily Vientiane Times, said that the cross-border passenger service will greatly promote Laos' national socio-economic development and facilitate people-to-people exchanges between the two neighbors.

* As of Friday, 3,049 passenger trains have been running on the Lao section of the China-Laos Railway, carrying 2.22 million passengers. This year, 834 passenger trains have been running, transporting 778,000 passengers. The average passenger load rate reached 97.85 percent, and the highest daily count of passengers amounted to 10,197 on March 4.

VIENTIANE, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Bounthavy, a young man from the tourist city of Luang Prabang in northern Laos, felt a bustling aura of the Lao New Year not seen for years in his hometown.

He attributed it to the China-Laos Railway, which launched the cross-border passenger service on Thursday to shorten the travel time between Kunming, the capital of southwest China's Yunnan Province and the Lao capital Vientiane to 10 and a half hours.

HISTORIC EVENT

"I feel proud to see the changes the China-Laos Railway has brought to my hometown!" said Bounthavy, who has been working as an interpreter during the construction of the China-Laos Railway stations.

Tourists, he said, are swarming in for the Lao New Year holiday, and hotels in Luang Prabang are operating at full capacity. Many of his fellow villagers applauded the development and changes brought by the railway, expecting a brighter future for their hometown.

Lao staff members greet passengers taking the first cross-border passenger train from Kunming, the capital of southwest China's Yunnan Province, to Lao capital Vientiane at the Boten Station of the China-Laos Railway in Luang Namtha, Laos on April 13, 2023. (Xinhua/Xing Guangli)

The launch of the cross-border passenger service of the China-Laos Railway, a major part of the trans-Asian railway network, has been hailed as a historic event for Laos, as the landlocked country has realized its dream of becoming a land-linked hub in the region and beyond.

The railway will now become a "golden key" for Laos to connect with China and other members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), which will greatly benefit the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area and the Greater Mekong Subregion Economic Cooperation.

PEOPLE-TO-PEOPLE EXCHANGES

On the D888 train that departed Thursday from Vientiane for Kunming, Alounsack, a Lao passenger who took his family to Kunming for the Lao New Year holiday, was more than excited to be one of the first-day passengers.

The first cross-border passenger train departing from the Lao capital Vientiane to Kunming, the capital of southwest China's Yunnan Province, runs on the Ganlanba bridge of the China-Laos railway in Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture in Yunnan Province, April 13, 2023. (Xinhua/Shan Yuqi)

"I would like to invite Lao people to come to take this historic train to China, to see their country, and invite Chinese to visit Laos through the railway that we jointly develop," he said, beaming with happiness.

Souklati, a staff member who performed Lao traditional singing and dancing for passengers, said she felt happy and proud to become part of the event.

"The opening of this cross-border railway is very important by making it convenient to travel internationally. Students or tourists, they have another way of travel to choose from. It will help the economy, transportation, trade, tourism to flourish, and there will be more people coming and going," she said.

"Cross-border passenger service on the China-Laos Railway will support the Lao government's policy to transform itself from being a landlocked country into a land link, as a regional one or even a global one," said Khampheuy Philapha, director general of Lao News Agency (KPL).

Thonglor Duangsavanh, editor-in-chief of local daily Vientiane Times, said that the cross-border passenger service will greatly promote Laos' national socio-economic development and facilitate people-to-people exchanges between the two neighbors.

"That may be recorded in the history book of cooperation between Laos and China," said Suanesavanh Vignaket, the Lao minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, on the first day of the cross-border passenger service.

FLOURISHING TOURISM

In northern Laos' tourist town of Vang Vieng, locals splashed water to celebrate the Lao New Year in the scorching April sun.

Despite its impressive landscapes such as karst terrain and strange caves, Vang Vieng has long been little known to the outside world for lack of transportation.

"Since the opening of the China-Laos Railway, it only takes one hour to travel from Vientiane to Vang Vieng, and the ticket price is cheaper than that of the bus. The number of tourists coming to Vang Vieng is two or three times that of the past," said Vang Vieng station passenger duty attendant Anhsamay Gnommilavong.

During the new year holiday, the ticket offices were crowded with passengers at the stations of Vientiane and Vang Vieng. Some were going home for family reunions, some visiting tourist sites, and there were also tourists coming from Europe and America.

Passengers enters the Vientiane Station of the China-Laos Railway in Vientiane, Laos, April 15, 2023. (Xinhua/Xing Guangli)

A Canadian tourist with the first name of Michael, told Xinhua at Vang Vieng Station that this was the second time he had traveled to Laos with his family.

"Last time we only visited Vientiane due to inconvenient transportation. Now with the convenient and comfortable China-Laos Railway, we can travel around northern Laos. I believe this journey will be very pleasant," he said.

Statistics from the Lao Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism show that since the China-Laos Railway opened on Dec. 3, 2021, it has activated the Lao tourism economy, as 85 percent of tourists from Vientiane to Luang Prabang have chosen to take the train.

As of Friday, 3,049 passenger trains have been running on the Lao section of the China-Laos Railway, carrying 2.22 million passengers. This year, 834 passenger trains have been running, transporting 778,000 passengers. The average passenger load rate reached 97.85 percent, and the highest daily count of passengers amounted to 10,197 on March 4.

Vignaket, the Lao minister, told Xinhua that with the support of the two governments, the Laos-China Railway, a landmark Belt and Road project, has turned from a blueprint into a reality, which will go down in the history of bilateral cooperation.

Liu Hong, general manager of Laos-China Railway Co. Ltd., said the railway is just a starting point. The iron dragon, carrying the friendship, dreams and hopes of the two peoples, is speeding towards a brighter future.

Editor: WXL
The policy research center of the Electronic World Trade Platform of Alibaba, Chinas e-commerce behemoth, recently released an exclusive report on the development and prospect of Chinas cross-border e-commerce.

In 2022, China's cross-border e-commerce industry continued to grow and evolve, with a focus on facilitating domestic enterprises to go global, optimizing import supply chain, enhancing compliance, and promoting sustainability. The industry has become an important driver of China's economic growth and global trade expansion, while enabling Chinese small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to enhance their competitiveness and expand their market presence, according to the report.

Going global: Brand Strategy and New Models

In the B2C field, domestic cross-border e-commerce platforms, such as AliExpress, are helping Chinese enterprises build their brands and expand into new markets. AliExpress launched the "G100 Overseas Plan" in 2021 and the "Domestic Products Going Global" program in 2022, aiming to help Chinese SMEs give full play to their supply chain advantages, establish brand mentality in overseas markets, and create a favorable brand image among consumers.

In the B2B field, Alibaba International released the Digital Overseas 4.0 Plan in 2021, with a focus on incubating start-up and competitive brands, and helping them go global. In 2022, Alibaba International released the methodology for Chinese B2B brands going overseas, aiming to incubate 100 Class B cross-border benchmark brands in the coming year.

New models of cross-border e-commerce are also developing rapidly. The model of "livestream + cross-border e-commerce" has been widely used, and overseas independent brands of domestic enterprises are booming. For example, independent brand Shein has become a benchmark in fast fashion industry of cross-border e-commerce.

Optimizing supply chain: Meeting the Growing Demand for High-Quality Foreign Products

China's cross-border e-commerce imports are accelerating the optimization of the global supply chain to meet the growing demand of Chinese consumers for high-quality foreign products. Tmall Global has built a "fast lane" for global brands and SMEs to enter the Chinese market, and eWTP has cooperated with global eHub countries to introduce more high-quality overseas goods to Chinese consumers. For example, Malaysia's Musang King durian is now exported to China under the eWTP framework.

Enhancing Compliance: Standardization and Digital Solutions

The compliance process of cross-border e-commerce in China has been accelerating, thanks to the combined effect of the standard system and platform rules. China has actively promoted the standardization of cross-border e-commerce, with 41 national, industry, local, group, and enterprise standards in place. Digital platform enterprises, such as the eWTP, are actively building one-stop digital compliance solutions for SMEs engaged in foreign trade, helping them go global in compliance with relevant laws.

Promoting Sustainability: Integrating Social Responsibility into Business Plan

Digital technology enterprises have a shared obligation to integrate social responsibility into business plan and promote sustainable development. Alibaba's 2022 ESG report shows that energy conservation and carbon reduction have become objectives of many SMEs. Alibaba Cloud's "Energy Consumption Treasure" software is able to optimize electricity consumption through algorithms, reducing emissions to the environment and saving energy by an average of 10 percent for enterprises, and it has been used by nearly 1,700 enterprises.

Editor: WXY
Poland's decision to impose a temporary ban on the import of Ukrainian agricultural products into the country should spur the EU to provide additional subsidies to Polish farmers, the transit of Ukrainian agricultural products will be resumed after receiving 100% guarantees, Polish Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Robert Telus said.

"Today, there was also a meeting between the Ukrainian side and the Polish side. We are not against transit, but we need a 100% guarantee that products that destabilize our market do not remain in Poland," he said on twitter.

Telus noted that the issue of subsidies is a tool that will allow Polish farmers to profitably sell grain and thus free up their warehouses and prepare them for harvest.

According to him, Hungary and Slovakia are implementing similar solutions.

"We want to send a clear signal to the EU that we need legal changes. We need to introduce rules that will ensure that goods entering our country will be in transit," he said.

The minister pointed out that the reports about the alleged threat of the withdrawal of the EU subsidies for Polish farmers are not true.

"There is a statement by the spokesperson of the European Commission that this is not about punishment but about regulating the transit of agricultural products from Ukraine," Telus said.

He arrived at the Dorohusk-Yahodyn border crossing to check the introduction of a decision to suspend the import of agricultural products from Ukraine.
Russian opposition figure Vladimir Kara-Murza, accused of treason and of discrediting the Russian army, stands behind a glass wall of an enclosure for defendants during a court hearing in Moscow on April 17, 2023. (Moscow City Court/Handout via Reuters)

MOSCOWKremlin critic Vladimir Kara-Murza was jailed for 25 years by a Moscow court on Monday, the harshest sentence of its kind since Russia invaded Ukraine, after being convicted of treason and other offences in a trial he said was politically-motivated.

Kara-Murza, 41, a father of three and an opposition politician who holds Russian and British passports, spoke out against President Vladimir Putin for years and successfully lobbied Western governments to impose sanctions on Russia and individual Russians for purported human rights violations.

State prosecutors, who had requested a 25-year term, had accused him of treason, among other offenses, and of discrediting the Russian military after spreading knowingly false information about its conduct in what Moscow calls its special military operation in Ukraine.

His sentence was the harshest handed down to a Kremlin critic since Putin came to power in 1999.

In a CNN interview broadcast hours before his arrest, Kara-Murza, whose family home is in Washington and who had returned to Moscow to campaign against the war, alleged that Russia was run by a regime of murderers.

He had also used speeches in the United States and Europe to accuse Russia of bombing civilians in Ukraine, a charge Moscow has rejected.

After hearing hed been ordered to spend the next quarter of a century in a maximum-security penal colony, Kara-Murza, who had calmly listened to proceedings inside a glass courtroom cage, declared Russia will be free, an opposition slogan.

He also smiled andaccording to one of his lawyers, Maria Eismontsaid he regarded the harsh sentence as recognition of his work.

When he heard hed got 25 years he said: My self-esteem has gone up, I understand that I did everything right. Its the highest score I could have got for what I did, for what I believed in as a citizen and a patriot,' she said.

His wife, Evgenia, echoed that sentiment on Twitter, likening his lengthy jail term to an A+ for courage, consistency, and honesty. I am infinitely proud of you, my love, and Im always by your side, she wrote.

Separately, she told a Washington Post event that the sentence showed how much the Russian authorities feared her husband.

In his final speech in court last week, Kara-Murza compared his trial, held behind closed doors, to Josef Stalins show trials in the 1930s. He declined to ask the court to acquit him, saying he was proud of everything he had said and done.

Eismont, who said her client had not been allowed to speak to his children by phone for nearly a year, said Kara-Murzas team would appeal against Mondays verdict, which she said had been marred by legal violations.

The Kremlin, when asked about the verdict, said it did not comment on court decisions.

Envoy Summoned

In London, Britainwhich in 2020 imposed sanctions on the judge presiding over the case for alleged human rights violationssaid it had summoned the Russian ambassador to protest over what it said was a politically-motivated conviction.

Outside the Moscow court, British Ambassador Deborah Bronnert told reporters that Kara-Murza had been punished for bravely speaking out against Russias war in Ukraine and demanded his release.

U.S. Ambassador Lynne Tracy, speaking alongside her, said Kara-Murzas conviction was an attempt to silence dissent.

Criminalization of criticism of government action is a sign of weakness, not strength, said Tracy.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova criticized the Western diplomats intervention, suggesting they might be called in to be reminded of what diplomats should and shouldnt do.

Shortly after sending tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine in February last year, Russia introduced sweeping wartime censorship laws which have been used to silence dissenting voices.

Discrediting the army can currently be punished by up to five years in prison, while spreading deliberately false information about it can attract a 15-year jail sentence.

Casting the conflict in Ukraine as an existential struggle with the West, Russian pro-government politicians say unity across society is vital. They have described Russian citizens who question Moscows actions in Ukraine as part of a pro-Western fifth column trying to undermine the military campaign.

Twice, in 2015 and 2017, Kara-Murza fell suddenly ill in what he said were poisonings by the Russian security services, on both occasions falling into a coma before eventually recovering.

Russian authorities denied involvement in those incidents. Kara-Murzas lawyers say that as a result, he suffers from a serious nerve disorder called polyneuropathy.

Eismont, his lawyer, said his legal team was concerned about his health after an examination by a civilian hospital at the end of March found his condition was worsening.
The Slovak government at a meeting on Monday approved a ban on the import of grain and some agricultural products from Ukraine from April 19, but did not restrict their transit through the country, Slovak Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Samuel Vlcan said at a briefing.

"By today's decision, the government does not impose a ban on transit through the "solidarity routes" to ports so that products from Ukraine destined for third markets outside the EU can continue to be exported," TASR quoted Vlcan as saying.

According to the agency, the import ban applies to cereals, sugar, dry food, grain, hops, flax, hemp, fruits and vegetables, processed fruits and vegetables, as well as wine, ethyl alcohol of agricultural origin, honey and bee products.

According to the Slovak minister, this move is aimed at protecting the Slovak agri-food sector and especially the health of consumers.

"Poland has resorted to very strict bans and we had to react to protect the Slovak market in terms of agricultural and food products, where we are self-sufficient," he added.

As reported, on April 15, the Polish government banned the import of grain and other agricultural products from Ukraine until June 30 in order to protect the Polish agricultural sector. On April 16, Hungary also announced a temporary ban on the import of grains and oilseeds from Ukraine.
Export of electricity to be stopped in case of shortage of resources for domestic consumers  Energy Minister

The export of electricity will be stopped in case of a shortage of generation capacity for domestic consumers, Minister of Energy of Ukraine Herman Haluschenko said.

"There can be no export if there is not enough generation for domestic consumers," the minister said at a press conference in Kyiv on Tuesday.

At the same time, he did not begin to predict how long electricity exports resumed from April 11 could continue, given the upcoming repair campaigns for nuclear and thermal generation.

"I would not say that it will be a month or some other period. Everything will depend on the situation," the minister said.

At the same time, he called electricity exports another source of maintaining tariffs for the population, confirming that with its opening, the so-called export PSO was resumed, according to which exporters directed 80% of the income from this operation to cover the difference between the market price of electricity and its cost for household consumers.

At the same time, Haluschenko drew attention to the fact that with a decrease in electricity prices in the European market, export earnings will be less than last year.

He expressed hope that an additional transmission line with Poland would be opened as soon as possible, which would allow to technically increase the capacity for export, as well as that ENTSO-E would decide to increase the permitted export capacity currently being 400 MW by several times.
Indiana's pension program for state and local government employees, including teachers, will be required in coming years to sell off about $750 million in assets invested in companies linked to the government of China.

The General Assembly gave final approval Monday to Senate Enrolled Act 268, requiring the Indiana Public Retirement System (INPRS) to divest all of its holdings that are closely associated with the People's Republic of China or the Chinese Communist Party.

The proposal was unanimously approved by the House and Senate. It will take effect immediately once it's signed into law by Republican Gov. Eric Holcomb.

The sponsor of the plan, Rep. Chris Judy, R-Fort Wayne, said he considers China to be engaged in an "economic war" against the United States, and Indiana pension assets should not be supporting companies likely to be engaged in the theft of American intellectual property or spying on U.S. citizens.

"They are not our ally," Judy said.

Even if INPRS is making money on its Chinese investments, Sen. Chris Garten said, it's not worth continuing to do business in the world's second-largest economy because he claims that China is engaged in "multidimensional warfare" against America.

"We have to acknowledge that any investment in China is an issue of national security and a monetary endorsement of human rights violations," the Charlestown Republican said. "Indiana is currently investing with our largest adversary."

According to INPRS, the $46 billion pension fund had $1.1 billion (2.3%) invested in Chinese entities as of June 30, 2022.

About $750 million of those holdings  $400 million in stocks and bonds, $350 million in a commingled fund  would be subject to the China divestment mandate, INPRS said.

The legislation directs that at least 50% of the prohibited holdings be sold off within three years of the law taking effect, 75% by Year 4, and 100% in Year 5.

INPRS anticipates it will cost the pension fund $5.3 million in the first year, and $700,000 every year thereafter, to comply with the mandate, on top of any losses associated with the early sale of current INPRS investments in Chinese entities.

Scott Davis, INPRS chief investment adviser, said the agency invests globally to ensure that ts assets are sufficiently diversified so an economic shock in one part of the world doesn't impede INPRS from meeting its annual targeted rate of return.

Davis said INPRS should have little difficulty complying with the China divestment requirement because it's similar to state laws barring INPRS from investing in any nation officially designated as a state-sponsor of terrorism, as well as in companies that actively boycott the nation of Israel.

Ironically, a separate pending measure, House Bill 1008, would prohibit INPRS from making investment decisions that focus on environmental, social or governance (ESG) factors, such as policy or regime change in China, instead of prioritizing the pension fund's 6.25% annual investment return target.

The China divestment mandate specifically would be exempt from the anti-ESG directive if it also becomes law.

Meet the 2023 Northwest Indiana legislative delegation State Rep. Carolyn Jackson, D-Hammond State Rep. Earl Harris Jr., D-East Chicago State Rep. Ragen Hatcher, D-Gary State Rep. Ed Soliday, R-Valparaiso State Rep. Pat Boy, D-Michigan City State Rep. Chuck Moseley, D-Portage State Rep. Mike Aylesworth, R-Hebron State Rep. Mike Andrade, D-Munster State Rep. Vernon Smith, D-Gary State Rep. Hal Slager, R-Schererville State Rep. Kendell Culp, R-Rensselaer State Rep. Julie Olthoff, R-Crown Point State Rep. Jim Pressel, R-Rolling Prairie State Sen. Dan Dernulc, R-Highland State Sen. Lonnie Randolph, D-East Chicago State Sen. Eddie Melton, D-Gary State Sen. Rodney Pol Jr., D-Chesterton State Sen. Ed Charbonneau, R-Valparaiso State Sen. Rick Niemeyer, R-Lowell State Sen. Mike Bohacek, R-Michiana Shores
Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway Administrator Adam Tindall-Schlicht toured the Port of Indiana-Burns Harbor last week to see expansion work.

The White House-appointee runs the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corp., which maintains the U.S. portion of the international marine highway that stretches between Montreal and Lake Erie, opening the Great Lakes up to global trade.

On Friday, Tindall-Schlicht took a firsthand look at the $30 million in expansion projects that are partially federally funded. He also discussed future options for shipping growth at the deepwater port in Portage and Burns Harbor.

The Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway is vital to our nations economic growth, and is critical to creating a Great Lakes system that is economically, socially and environmentally sustainable, Tindall-Schlicht said. It is exciting to see the unique role Indiana plays in vital supply chains. The states unique combination of a busy international port, productive steel mills and proximity to the heartland of American agriculture makes for a truly special lakeshore. I look forward to continued work with Ports of Indiana and local leaders to grow maritime shipping in this region.

Tindall-Schlicht, the former director of Port Milwaukee, now oversees an agency that's part of the U.S. Department of Transportation. The Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corp. helps ensure massive international ships known as salties can bring goods in and out of Great Lakes ports like the Port of Chicago and the Port of Indiana-Burns Harbor.

Tindall-Schlicht met with Portage Mayor Sue Lynch and representatives from the Northwest Indiana Forum and the offices of U.S. Rep. Frank Mrvan and U.S Senators Mike Braun and Todd Young.

Its an honor to have the Seaway Administrator tour our port expansion projects and share his ideas about future opportunities, said Ports of Indiana CEO Jody Peacock. Adam has been a true champion of the Great Lakes for many years, and we are excited to share in his bold vision for growing shipping on the Great Lakes. The leadership and resources now being focused on Great Lakes shipping have created major excitement in our industry, and we are expecting big things from Adam and his team.
Northwest Indiana is now flanked with cannabis dispensaries just across the state lines of Illinois and Michigan.

The Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians opened the Rolling Embers marijuana dispensary and consumption lounge last week at 19279 Kinst Road in New Buffalo, Michigan. It's located on the tribe's land off Exit 1 from Interstate 94 just across the state line.

A ribbon-cutting took place Friday and a grand opening celebration is planned for Thursday, which just happens to be April 20, or 4/20.

Opus Consulting, a business management firm with extensive experience in the cannabis industry, helped develop and will help manage the 21+ retail store in Harbor Country.

At the request of many of our citizens, the Pokagon Band has evaluated business opportunities within the burgeoning cannabis industry for several years and we are very pleased to have partnered with Opus Consulting to enter the market and establish Rolling Embers," Pokagon Band Tribal Council Treasurer and Pokagon Development Authority Chairman Alex Wesaw said. "With its mix of products, innovative concept, amenities and great location near Lake Michigan in scenic New Buffalo, Rolling Embers offers a retail cannabis experience that is truly unique in the state of Michigan. We look forward to welcoming the public to experience what Rolling Embers has to offer.

The 3,000-square-foot store has ample parking, including a dedicated space for motorcycles. It stocks a wide array of cannabis products, aiming at both the demographics of seasoned connoisseurs and first-timers.

It has a 1,400-square-foot outdoor consumption lounge with a gas fire pit, flexible seating and a "unique ambiance." It plans to host live music and bring in food trucks.

Rolling Embers also can be rented out to host large groups for private events.

We are extremely proud to partner with the Pokagon Band to bring this unique cannabis retail store to Southwest Michigan," Opus Consulting President Jacques Santucci said. "Great care has been taken in the planning and implementation of the vision to provide a curated experience to both new and seasoned cannabis consumers alike.

Indiana is just one of 10 states left in the nation where marijuana remains illegal. It's legal either for medicinal use or recreational use everywhere else in the country, including in neighboring Michigan and Illinois, where Mission Dispensary is located right across the state line by the River Oaks Center mall in Calumet City.

Michigan legalized cannabis for recreational use in 2019 and now has 609 active adult-use retailers across the state. The industry generates sales of $2.04 billion a year.

Rolling Embers is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.
EAST CHICAGO  School officials waded Monday night into a controversy over how their cleaning supplies became part of an election eve giveaway by city officials.

School Board President Joel Rodriguez and board member Jesse Gomez used the forum of a heated board meeting to publicly chide board member Vanessa Hernandez-Orange for what they said were apparent violations of school policy.

Gomez said, It is certainly, at minimum, an ethical issue and at worst a criminal activity.

Rodriguez warned, "This is a serious matter. There will be consequences.

Hernandez-Orange defiantly scolded her two fellow board members for publicly attacking my integrity and character instead of speaking to her in private over the controversy.

She said she did follow school policy in handing out dozens of packages of Lysol wipes to residents of a senior citizen residential project, the James Hunter Senior Building, 3625 Pulaski St., on April 11.

Photos of Hernandez-Orange and Mayor Antony Copeland handing out the wipes were posed last week on Facebook by ECTV, a public relations department of city hall, giving rise to public complaints against her.

Hernandez-Orange sarcastically suggested her critics would be taking a different tone if they had been invited to the giveaway too.

Some School Board members would have loved the photo opportunity. Then, this would have been a different story. Actually, there would not be a story.

She said Superintendent Javier Abregos time might be better spent establishing future internal control and procedures regarding distribution of school goods as donations rather than cooperating in Rodriguezs demand to investigate the wipes controversy.

She also challenged her critics on the board to join her in going to the homes of all the senior citizens who received free wipes and confiscating them if they were serious about their complaints over the giveaway.

Hernandez-Orange finds herself at the center of this controversy because she is Mayor Copelands city parks director, has served on the school board for six years and now is one of dozens of candidates running in the May 2 Democratic primary for seats on the citys common council.

Both Hernandez-Orange and Copeland are in hotly contested races and the targets for political opponents.

Hernandez said Monday she arranged the distribution of Lysol disinfectant wipes only as a non-partisan, charitable event, not as part of her election campaign.

The school district received 244,000 Lysol wipes in early 2021 from the Teachers Treasures, an Indianapolis charity.

Rodriguez said Monday the wipes  in demand since the COVID-19 pandemic for cleaning door handles and other often-touched hard surfaces  were donated for use in the citys public schools.

Hernandez said the school district itself has donated some of the wipes to churches, Carmelite Home, a childrens shelter, families living within and outside the city as well as senior citizens in the past.

She said so many of the wipes are sitting unused in school storage that she thought it would be a good idea to donate more of them to the community rather than allow them to dry out.

Rodriguez challenged Hernandezs characterization of the wipes as surplus goods, saying they have a shelf life of two years.

Hernandez-Orange said she spoke weeks earlier with Lela Simmons, the school districts chief financial officer, several weeks ago and received permission to hand out wipes at the citys annual Easter drive thru a city parks department-sponsored event April 1 at Washington Park.

Hernandez-Orange said the school district has previously donated books, backpacks and other student supplies for free distribution at city parks seasonal events.

She said there was still half a pallet of wipes remaining after the drive thru, so she asked and received permission from Simmons again to dispense the remainder to seniors and to city workers.

Gomez said once the School Board accepted donation of the wipes in 2021, only the superintendent could declare them surplus goods to be disposed of.

Rodriguez said his initial investigation of the issue this week shows no one filled out an official work order to move the wipes out of storage and to Hernandezs city parks department.

The school board meeting drew a number of members of the public, including City Councilwoman Gilda Orange, mother-in-law to Hernandez-Orange.

Gilda Orange scolded Rodriguez and Gomes for creating an unnecessary public controversy over the wipes. Rodriguez ruled her comments out of order and had to repeatedly order her to sit down and stop talking.
Poland is introducing a ban on the import of Ukrainian agricultural products from April 19, Agriculture Minister Robert Telus said at a press conference on Monday.

The Ministry of Agriculture of Poland reported on its Twitter that Telus, accompanied by Deputy Minister of Agriculture Anna Gembicka, met with representatives of Dorohusk-Jagodzin border crossing services and informed them about the implementation of the decision to suspend the import of agricultural products from Ukraine.

According to him, the border guards assured that there are no products specified in the regulations at the border.

Asked by journalists about EU threats to withdraw subsidies for Polish farmers for a unilateral decision, Telus said that was not true. "There is a statement by the press secretary of the European Commission, which is not about punishment, but about regulating the transit of agricultural products from Ukraine," the minister said.

According to the minister, Poland and Ukraine continue negotiations. "Today there was also a meeting between the Ukrainian and Polish sides. We are not against transit, but we need a 100% guarantee so that products that destabilize our market do not remain in Poland," Telus said.
WINFIELD  The Winfield Police Department has released surveillance photos in hope the public can help identify a suspect sought in the theft of $1,200 over the weekend from Buddy & Pals at 10685 Randolph St.

The suspect, who appears to be a white male, entered the business late Saturday or early Sunday during hours of operation, police said.

"He broke into a pull tab lottery machine and stole $1,200 in cash," according to police.

Anyone who knows the identity of the suspect is encouraged to contact Winfield police Detective Cpl. Jordan Billups-Taylor at 219-713-7119.
VALPARAISO  After three partygoers in a pole barn spent time showing off their handguns while gathered around a bar stocked with various types of alcohol, 17-year-old Dakota Martinez-Kestle picked up one of the weapons, according to a newly-filed charging document.

"She did not say anything as she pulled the slide back and chambered a live round," the document reads. "Dakota stepped in front of Andrew (Lenahan) and pointed the firearm at his head and pulled the trigger."

"The gun fired and struck Andrew, who immediately fell to the ground," the allegations read. "Dakota became hysterical and passed out from the shock."

Martinez-Kestle, a Shorewood Forest resident and Portage High School student, then fled on foot with another female juvenile from the pole barn located in the 600 block of West County Road 100 North in Union Township.

The new details about the Oct. 14 shooting come as part of last month's decision to waive Martinez-Kestle from juvenile to adult court to face felony counts of reckless homicide and battery with a deadly weapon.

Her case has been assigned to Porter Circuit Court Judge Mary DeBoer, who scheduled an initial hearing for May 16.

Martinez-Kestle is accused of shooting and killing Lenahan, an 18-year-old, who had moved to the Region in July to pursue a career in pipefitting and welding, according to his mother, Tabitha Lenahan, a Gary native who now lives in Savannah, Georgia.

Defense attorney Ken Elwood, who voiced disappointment in the waiver of the case to adult court, has referred to the shooting as "a tragic accident not a reckless act."

"There were many poor decisions made by multiple people that night that led to this tragedy," Elwood has said. "My heart goes out to all the families involved especially the deceased young man. I look forward to proving this was a tragic accident."

In the new charging document, police say they were called to the pole barn in question around 10:15 p.m. Oct. 14 and found Lenahan's deceased body on the floor with a single gunshot wound to the head.

The homeowner reportedly told officers he had invited a few friends over for a small gathering and his girlfriend invited Martinez-Kestle.

During the gathering, three of the male partygoers took out their Glock handguns, dismantled them and showed them off to each other, police said. One of the gun owners placed a magazine back into his weapon and put it on the bar, followed by Martinez-Kestle picking it up and firing it.

The homeowner said he attempted to administer aid to Lenahan and call 911 as Martinez-Kestle fled the scene, according to police.

Police said they located Martinez-Kestle at her father's home in the Lakes of the Four Seasons, but they refused to speak with police without a warrant until after a SWAT team arrived.

Police searched the pole barn on Oct. 15 and found a number of alcoholic beverages on the bar and a Glock 45 9 mm pistol on the floor with a loaded magazine, but no ammunition in the chamber, the court document says.

Other firearms and ammunition were found in a home on site, police said.

An autopsy conducted Oct. 17 found Lenahan died as a result of a close range gunshot wound to the mouth and his death was ruled a homicide, records show.

Martinez-Kestle reportedly admitted during a Feb. 27 hearing in juvenile court to pointing the tan-colored firearm at Lenahan and pulling the trigger, police say.

"Dakota stated that she was about 5 feet away from Andrew when she fired the shot," records show.

Porter County Juvenile Court Magistrate Kristen Mulligan had earlier granted a request by the defense to allow Martinez-Kestle to leave the juvenile detention center and go on home detention while her case proceeds.

The Porter County jail had no record Tuesday of any dealings with the young woman.

Elwood had said during an earlier juvenile hearing that a few men brought the handguns in question to a gathering and set them out believing they were unloaded.

After others had pointed the guns at Martinez-Kestle and pulled the trigger, Lenahan handed her a gun and after hesitating at first, she pulled the trigger and shot him, Elwood said.

While one of the men claimed to have seen the girl chamber the gun, Elwood said that is unlikely because of the strength required. She had also been told the gun was not loaded, the attorney said.
MICHIGAN CITY  A plan to inspect rental properties is up for City Council consideration again Tuesday after having met with opposition at the last council meeting.

Councilwoman Dalia Zygas, D-at large, said she has been working on this ordinance for more than 18 months. Theres a lot of moving parts because it involves the inspection department, planning attorneys making sure that we follow the rules for the state."

The ordinance is 13 pages long, so she wrote a summary. It's four pages.

A workshop on the ordinance planned for last week was canceled "due to unresolved legal and financial issues with the ordinance, Zygas reported on her website.

Landlords would pay a registration fee of $75 to list all their properties and a $50 renewal fee thereafter. After hearing landlords complain about the cost, she clarified that landlords could list all their properties at once and pay just $75.

One of the advantages of the ordinance is to know how to address safety issues, Zygas said.

We don't know who owns some of the buildings that are rented out and there's no way to contact an owner. There's some kind of LLC with the post office box, which really does not help if you know your house is on fire or you're having some kind of issue with personal safety in the building.

Zygas wants the city to have a local contact in case of a problem.

I have some pictures that were shared with me from code enforcement to show the kind of living conditions that they come upon, she said. "What's really tragic is that theres a lot more of these situations that are going on.

The object is to have everyone meet the minimum property standards, she said.

Resident Rodney McCormick said it seems like an invasion of privacy.

"I just really don't get it, he said, adding that the inspection office already has where citizens can actually call in and make a complaint.

Resident Angie Henzman said landlords who dont live here are less likely to pay adequate attention to the condition of their properties.

"There are many people living in substandard conditions, and this is something we have to address for the safety of our citizens," she said. "If you are a landlord and you are taking care of the minimum requirements, this should not be something you are against."

Councilwoman Angie Deuitch, D-at large, asked whether the county could provide a number of rental homes, or at least homes without homestead exemptions, to help gauge the scope of the issue.

We're needing to fix dilapidated houses, Councilman Michael Mack, D-3rd, said. How did the market allow these houses to get in such deplorable condition, to where you know they're just there and we're talking about tearing them down?
What is introversion, and how does it shape friendship?

Experts dont necessarily agree on a set definition of introversion. Laurie Helgoe, an associate clinical professor at Augsburg University in Minneapolis and the author of Introvert Power: Why Your Inner Life Is Your Hidden Strength, described it to me as an inward or internal orientation.

I am thinking of a persons control center or laboratory  the place where they work things through, Dr. Helgoe said. For example, if you ask me how my day is going, Im going to pause and go to my inner laboratory, scan my day and then formulate my response. My husband, the extrovert, is going to say what first comes into his head in order to keep the conversation going, because his laboratory is outside, in the interaction. (Research suggests the population is split nearly evenly between introverts and extroverts, she said.)

Others tend to define introversion more in terms of how one responds to social stimulation. The key feature of introversion is that social energy tends to overwhelm you more quickly, and you need more time to restore, said Marisa Franco, the author of Platonic: How the Science of Attachment Can Help You Make  and Keep  Friends.

While the terms introvert, shy and even social anxiety are often used interchangeably, they are not the same. The American Psychological Association defines shyness as the tendency to feel awkward or tense during social interactions. Social anxiety disorder, on the other hand, is a mental health condition characterized by an intense and persistent fear of being watched and judged by others that gets in the way of daily life.

Introverts are mistaken for being antisocial, said Susan Cain, the author of Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Cant Stop Talking. Actually, theyre differently social.
This article contains spoilers for the final season of Succession.

It was just hours after Logan Roys mid-flight death on Succession when Brian Cox, the 76-year-old Scottish actor who shot to late-career fame playing the brutal family patriarch and media mogul, was spotted on the streets of New York, beaming and very vital.

Caught on his way to the Ed Sullivan Theater for an appearance on The Late Show With Stephen Colbert, Cox  who recently told The Times that a lot of American television goes past its sell-by date  looked as if his exit from the HBO show had resuscitated him.
This article contains major spoilers for Episode 4 of the final season of Succession.

After the grief and anguish of last weeks episode, Succession wasted no time in getting back to the ice-cold heart of the series: power grabbing. What else should we have expected from the day after Logans death? The Roys are going to Roy.

While the episode opened with some shots of Kendall, Roman and Shiv still in their feelings  and the revelation that Shiv is pregnant  by the end the knives were out. The sibs are back making moves against each other. Logans executive team is back trying to stop them. Marcia is back from shopping in Milan. Tom and Greg, the Disgusting Brothers, are back whispering profanities to each other in the corner of the room. Were still focused on the question: What does one even wear to a half-wake, half-business meeting?

Jessica Testa: We should start by talking about Shiv, whose wardrobe so far this season has revealed a lot about her emotional state. The composed shell is cracking. Now we better understand that it isnt just the divorce. Shes pregnant. Which makes her wardrobe in this episode all the more interesting, because the old Shiv is BACK.
The crack squad employed by Perry to crack the case is a veritable dream team of lead and supporting players from all sides of the conflict. For starters, it includes Pete Strickland, who admits that it was he who found the Gallardos smoking gun in Perrys safe on the prosecutions orders, and who catches an admirably sloppy beating from Mason for his troubles. He rejoins Team Perry to make amends; its his idea to board a McCutcheon cargo ship to find out exactly whats going on. (Its also his idea to swim to shore afterward, but I wont hold it against him if Perry wont.)

The crew also includes Detective Holcomb, the guy who stakes out the McCutcheon vessel in the first place. Ill state for the record here that I am a huge, huge mark for instances of cooperation between characters who have every reason to choose not to get along; I hold out hope that Holcomb (and the actor Eric Lange, who plays him) will eventually be incorporated into Masons brain trust. (To be clear: I may be holding out hope, but Im not holding my breath.)

It includes the formidable Della Street, who gets her friend, the district attorney Hamilton Burger, to admit hes being blackmailed about his closeted sexuality in order to bring the case to a quick close. Its also she who ferrets out from the federal Department of Agriculture that Brooks was under investigation, an investigation that compromised department figures are determined to prevent from seeing the light of day.

It includes not only Paul Drake but also his wife Clara, whos so tired of Pauls obsessive diligence that she volunteers to take on some of the responsibilities herself. Its she who spots the blue car while her husband naps. Its she who enters into the home in the guise of a humble Jehovahs Witness, only to be mistaken for Josephine Baker by the strung-out lady of the house, who promptly has a heroin-induced seizure. Its she who sees Phippsy, whose home it is, run to the rescue of his addict wife. Its she who steals a letter confirming the ID of the homeowner  all the evidence they need to connect the Gallardos to Nygaard.

Finally, it includes Marion, the dutiful receptionist who first proffers the theory that its all a scheme to fuel the Japanese military. Given her Korean ethnicity, shes familiar with Japans military conquests in the Far East, and thus precisely the person required to give Team Perry this final piece of the puzzle.
The rich are different from you and me: They have immensely more power. But when they try to exercise that power they can trap themselves  supporting politicians who will, if they can, create a society the rich themselves wouldnt want to live in.

This, Id argue, is the common theme running through four major stories that have been playing out over the past few months. They are: the relationship between Justice Clarence Thomas and the billionaire Harlan Crow; the rise and seeming decline of Ron DeSantiss presidential campaign; the trials (literally) of Fox News; and the Muskopalypse at Twitter.

First, some notes on the role of vast wealth in a democracy.

People on the right often insist that expressing any concern about highly concentrated wealth is un-American. The truth, however, is that worrying about the dangers great wealth poses for democracy is very much part of the American tradition. And our nation basically invented progressive taxation, which was traditionally seen not just as a source of revenue but also as a way to limit excessive wealth.

In fact, if you read what prominent figures said during the Progressive Era, many expressed views that would be hysterically denounced as class warfare today. Theodore Roosevelt warned against a small class of enormously wealthy and economically powerful men, whose chief object is to hold and increase their power. Woodrow Wilson declared, If there are men in this country big enough to own the government of the United States, they are going to own it.
Democrats pushed back against the Republican effort to vilify Mr. Bragg while laboring to show sympathy for the victims.

I fear that you are being used for a political purpose, despite your sincerity, said Representative Zoe Lofgren, Democrat of California, prompting objections from the witnesses.

The hearing came a week after Mr. Bragg filed a lawsuit against Mr. Jordan seeking to stop congressional Republicans from interfering in his case against Mr. Trump  the product of a nearly five-year investigation that began under his predecessor  and specifically, to bar them from deposing Mark F. Pomerantz, a lawyer who worked on the inquiry for about a year.

On Monday, as the congressional hearing was getting underway, a lawyer for Mr. Jordan filed a response to Mr. Braggs lawsuit, saying that it represented an extraordinary and unconstitutional attempt to have a judge interfere in a congressional inquiry.

A lawyer for Mr. Bragg declined to comment on Mr. Jordans response.

The hearing was repeatedly interrupted by protesters and outbursts. At one point, a group loudly attempted entry into the hearing room, chanting, Let us in! They held signs that said Jim Jordan, Insurrectionist, referring to the Ohio Republicans role in planning the efforts in Congress on Jan. 6, 2021, to overturn the election results, and 34 felonies, a reference to the charges against Mr. Trump.

Antisemitism was on vivid display. Outside the Javits building, a man held a sign with the name of the financier George Soros, a Jewish Holocaust survivor, along with the image of a Star of David and dollar signs. Several Republicans inside the hearing room also focused their comments on Mr. Soros, whom they blamed for supporting the campaigns of progressive prosecutors, including Mr. Braggs.

With antisemitic tropes emanating from House Republicans, its unsurprising, but no less vile, to see the Republicans bringing this antisemitism to New York outside todays stunt hearing in Manhattan, said Representative Jerrold Nadler of New York, the top Democrat on the committee.
The Sudanese Army and a paramilitary group known as the Rapid Support Forces were once aligned. The R.S.F. fought on behalf of the Sudanese Army, until its outgrown influence and the ambitions of its leader, Lt. Gen. Mohamed Hamdan, put the two sides in direct confrontation.

Here is a look at the paramilitary group:

Who are the Rapid Support Forces?

The Rapid Support Forces can trace its origins to the notorious Janjaweed militias, which in the 2000s helped Sudans Army crush a rebellion in the western region of Darfur. While the military had an air force and heavy weapons, the Janjaweed provided on-the-ground fighters in isolated areas.

An estimated 300,000 people were killed in the conflict between 2003 and 2008, and 2.5 million more were displaced, according to the United Nations. The International Criminal Court opened investigations into the genocidal violence, indicting Sudans longtime dictator, Omar Hassan al-Bashir, on charges of genocide and crimes against humanity in 2009.
Ukraine initiated a trilateral meeting with the participation of the European Commission and five EU member states  Poland, Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania, and Slovakia  to resolve the problems caused by the accumulation of Ukrainian agricultural products intended for further import in these countries, which led to its a ban already introduced by, among others, Poland and Hungary.

The meeting on Tuesday in Brussels was confirmed to Interfax-Ukraine by the European Commission. Vice-President Valdis Dombrovskis plans to meet with representatives of five interested EU member states in the coming days, the European Commission said. However, the exact time is not yet known.

The European Commission is also in contact with the Ukrainian side, and the country will also take part in this meeting, the European Commission added.

According to the information available to Interfax-Ukraine, Kyiv believes that the restrictions imposed by member states are a flagrant violation of trade agreements not only with Ukraine as a third country, but also within the European Union, which is contrary to both the Ukraine-EU Association Agreement and acquis of the EU as a whole. In this regard, Ukraine demands to withdraw the relevant decisions and resolve the situation in accordance with the requirements of the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area between Ukraine and the EU and the principles of the EU Single Market.
When she retired she wanted to be a normal person, with a normal life. She went on to become the editor in chief of Pointe magazine before returning to Dance Theater at Mitchells request. How could I say no? she said. This is the person who gave me everything I dreamed of in my life. It was time for me to pay back.

She is firm about something else, too: She didnt trade her freedom for ballet. Im always angry about people who write about or talk about all of the sacrifices, she said. OK, so there was some pain. OK, so there were a few things I gave up. Look what I got. I got to have a life in ballet.

She started dancing at the age of 3, going on to train at the Washington School of Ballet under Mary Day. It was Day, a white woman, who eventually told her that ballet wasnt going to fit into her future. Johnson said her words were: There are no Black ballerinas. Nobodys going to hire you.

Look, I was in her school for six years, Johnson continued. She trained me. She gave me opportunities. I had principal roles in her ballets. But she was telling me what the world was. And that was good.

That was before Mitchell, the first Black principal at City Ballet, started Dance Theater and cultivated dozens of Black ballerinas like Johnson and Graves, along with Lydia Abarca-Mitchell, Stephanie Dabney and many more. The company made Johnsons career in ballet possible; and, even now, she said, she knows the world needs Dance Theater of Harlem.
Michael Roemer, another German refugee who was friends with Auerbach at Bunce Court, became an early collector of his works and went on to buy more than 20 of pieces. By phone from his home in the United States, Roemer, 95, said that he felt a kinship of some kind, with Auerbach and his work, adding that, as Jewish survivors of the war, It had to do with being nobody and knowing it. I think Frank was compelled to paint. He had to prove his existence.

In the postwar years, Auerbach found exhilarating subject matter in the bombed sites that still littered London, and evoked the citys postwar reconstruction in dynamic compositions of thrusting diagonals and verticals balanced by geometric forms. Later, his focus shifted to portraying angular street scenes and city parks that seem convulsed in movement, animated by abstract slashes or sweeping zigzags.

His relief-like portraits from this period are dominated by Estella West, a widow with three children whom Auerbach met in 1948. For the next 25 years, West was Auerbachs lover and model, sitting for him three nights a week. He invoked her in turbulent whorls of paint, picturing swollen heads with deeply sculpted eyes and full-length nudes in which Wests pale, curvaceous figure is engulfed by her surroundings. Later, he made portraits of other intimates, including his wife, Julia, a fellow artist whom he married in 1958, and Jake, the son they had together.

Auerbachs paintings and drawings are visceral distillations of reality that emerge instinctively from a deep engagement with his subjects, rather than from a preconceived idea. Very often Ive finished something and found that it has some connotation, either sad or vigorous or cheerful, but I havent been aware of it at the time. All Ive been aware of is the business of making, he said, adding that he hates pictures that try to persuade you of something. I dont think theyre genuine art.

Auerbach has swapped views on what makes a good painting with some of the most important British artists of the 20th century. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, he developed competitive friendships with Bacon and Freud, spending time with them in the bohemian drinking dens of Londons Soho district. Auerbach recalled that Bacon was full of opinions, some inane and banal, many of them absolutely inspired and illuminating.

Bacon, who was already well established and enjoyed the good life, bought the younger artist many meals in swanky restaurants over 15 years, until he got fed up with my work and I found his behavior also a little tiresome, Auerbach said, pointing to Bacons tendency to disparage his friends paintings.
Seven-year-old Gloria Metzner, 3607 Park Boulevard, is the youngest working magician in the world, The Oakland Tribune of California declared in a November 1929 article about her. An accompanying photograph showed Gloria holding three balls between the fingers of her right hand, a moment from a trick in which she would make the balls appear and disappear like, well, magic.

Anything with sleight-of-hand and billiard balls I liked, she said almost a century later, in a 2022 interview with KVVU-TV of Las Vegas on the occasion of her 100th birthday. That was my favorite trick.

In between those two splashes of publicity, Gloria Metzner adopted the stage name Gloria Dea, made history in Las Vegas, had a few tabloid-ish moments in a brief film career, faded into obscurity for a half-century or so, and then, in her final years, was rediscovered and celebrated by her fellow magicians. Ms. Dea died on March 18 at an assisted living center in Las Vegas, her caregivers told local news outlets. She was 100.

Ms. Dea (pronounced day) might well have died in obscurity if not for a serendipitous confluence of recent events. One catalyst was Lance Rich, a magician and magic historian, who, while doing research for Neon Dreams: Vegas Greats, Dates and Firsts, a talk he gave at the Magic Collectors Expo in August 2021, determined that Ms. Dea held a singular distinction: She was, he believes, the first magician ever to perform in a Las Vegas casino.
BITING THE HAND: Growing Up Asian in Black and White America, by Julia Lee

Cultural identity, Stuart Hall wrote, is a matter of becoming. Although derived from our many histories, both personal and collective, identity is not some inherent essence, rooted in the past. It is instead, according to Hall, in constant transformation. Julia Lees memoir, Biting the Hand: Growing Up Asian in Black and White America, examines this process, and in particular the forging of her identity as a Korean American woman in a country that still operates under a racial hierarchy.

The book is divided into three parts, beginning with Rage, an intimate account of the authors tumultuous family life and its tortured silences around racial anxiety and inherited trauma. Lees parents, survivors of the Korean War, owned a liquor store in Inglewood, Calif., and then a fast-food chicken joint in nearby Hawthorne. The latter business was heavily damaged in the 1992 Los Angeles uprising, when Lee was 15. At the time, Lee was an angry teenager who clashed with her psycho Korean mom and chafed against the conservative culture of her private all-girls school.

Shame presents her time as an undergraduate at Princeton, where she was indoctrinated into an exclusive, elitist culture built upon whiteness and in service of whiteness. After graduation, Lee had a short, miserable stint in management consulting, before entering a doctoral program in English at Harvard. But she floundered there, too, feeling isolated and depressed. Id assumed that a community of people devoted to literature would be kinder and more humane than the corporate world shed escaped, Lee observes. But as I soon found out, academia is no different from other systems of power.

Things looked up only when a friend in the African American studies department introduced her to Jamaica Kincaid, who became a mentor. She offered Lee this crucial advice: Dare to critique those in authority who expect your subservience for access to privilege. You must bite the hand that feeds you, Kincaid said, and Lee took this to heart.
Manuel tries to subdue his heartache by cultivating a hostility to reflection and forging a negation of weakness. But his tactic stunts the narrator and her siblings, who are left to stand loyally, mulishly in his shadow, enthralled by his outsize personality but wary of an impulsive rage.

The title of Open Heart gestures to the authors courage to probe her familys anatomy (What interior code made her father so seductive and so cruel? How could her mother be so protective and so negligent?) and to forgive Manuels transgressions. In earnest if elliptical prose, elegantly translated by Adrian Nathan West, the narrative knits into itself, a dreamlike and reiterative bundle of crisscrossing timelines and remembrances.
3. A man accused of shooting a 16-year-old on his front porch in Missouri turned himself in.

Andrew Lester, an 84-year-old man accused of shooting Ralph Yarl, a Black teenager, in Kansas City, Mo., was taken into police custody this afternoon, a day after he was charged with assault in the first degree. Lester, prosecutors say, shot Yarl twice on Thursday night after the teenager approached Lesters front porch, having arrived at the wrong address to pick up his siblings.

Yarls father said that his son had surgery over the weekend to remove the bullets and was able to walk out of the hospital on Sunday. He is expected to make a full recovery. The county prosecutor said today that there was a racial component to the case, but he declined to elaborate.

In upstate New York, a 65-year-old man was charged with murder in the killing of a 20-year-old woman who was in a car that the authorities said had been mistakenly driven into his driveway.
How Western weapons technology reaches Russia

As Ukraine tries to repel Russia from its territory, the U.S. and its allies have been fighting a parallel battle to keep the chips needed for weapons systems, drones and tanks out of Russian hands.

But denying Russia access to chips has been a challenge, even though the U.S. and its allies have stopped direct sales of chips to the country. While sweeping sanctions have diminished Russias ability to manufacture weaponry, the country is still finding a way to access many electronic components.

Sales of chips from the U.S. and Europe to Armenia, Kazakhstan and other Central Asian countries have surged. But documents from U.S. and European officials show these are being rerouted to Russia.

Other countries have also stepped in to provide Russia with some of what it needs. Russias chip imports are rising, particularly from China and Hong Kong.
Tim Cook, the chief executive of Apple, visited India this week to open the companys first two Apple stores there: The biggest public company in the world is finally opening its first retail outlets in the worlds most populous country.

Roaring crowds of would-be customers greeted him in Mumbai on Tuesday at a sleek glass-and-timber flatiron of a storefront, called Apple BKC, in the Bandra Kurla Complex. On Thursday, Mr. Cook will travel to New Delhi to open a second store, Apple Saket, at the center of the capitals biggest mall.

The Apple brand is not new to India. But for the past 25 years  marked this week, in fact  Apple has relied solely on third-party sellers to get its products into the hands of Indian consumers. The iPhone is still a rare sight within the ocean of cheaper, and mostly Chinese-branded, Android smartphones that have swept across India over the past decade. Yet in India, as in nearly every other part of the world, Apple has its fans. Some of the most ardent were at the Mumbai opening, screaming their support.

And in Delhi are eager customers like Amar Bhasin, 41, whose first cellphone, bought 18 years ago, was a Panasonic. More recently, he bought an iPad from an Indian outlet, only to discover that its screen was cracked. The store refused to exchange it, and local service centers werent helpful. So Mr. Bhasin addressed a letter to Mr. Cook himself  and a month later, a new iPad appeared in the mail.
Late last month, American and European Union officials traded information on millions of dollars worth of banned technology that was slipping through the cracks of their defenses and into Russian territory.

Senior tax and trade officials noted a surge in chips and other electronic components being sold to Russia through Armenia, Kazakhstan and other countries, according to slides from the March 24 meeting obtained by The New York Times. And they shared information on the flow of eight particularly sensitive categories of chips and other electronic devices that they have deemed as critical to the development of weapons, including Russian cruise missiles that have struck Ukraine.

As Ukraine tries to repel Russia from its territory, the United States and its allies have been fighting a parallel battle to keep the chips needed for weapons systems, drones and tanks out of Russian hands.

But denying Russia access to chips has been a challenge, and the United States and Europe have not made a clear victory. While Russias ability to manufacture weaponry has been diminished because of Western sanctions adopted more than a year ago, the country is still gaining circuitous access to many electronic components.
Pinned

The truth matters. Lies have consequences, a lawyer for Dominion Voting Systems, Justin Nelson, in a red tie, said on Tuesday in Wilmington, Del.

Fox News abruptly agreed on Tuesday to pay $787.5 million to resolve a defamation suit filed by Dominion Voting Systems over the networks promotion of misinformation about the 2020 election, averting a lengthy and embarrassing trial just as a packed courtroom was seated in anticipation of hearing opening statements.

The settlement, one of the largest ever in a defamation case, was the latest extraordinary twist in a case that has been full of remarkable disclosures that exposed the inner workings of the most powerful voice in conservative news.

In addition to the huge financial price, Dominion exacted a difficult admission from Fox News, which acknowledged in a statement that certain claims it made about Dominion were false.

The truth matters. Lies have consequences, Justin Nelson, a lawyer for Dominion, said outside Delaware Superior Court on Tuesday.

Video Lies have consequences, a lawyer for Dominion Voting Systems said during a news conference. Credit Credit... Pete Marovich for The New York Times

News of the 11th-hour agreement stunned the full courtroom in Wilmington, where the case was being heard. Gasps filled the air when Judge Eric M. Davis told the jury shortly before 4 p.m. that the two parties had resolved the matter. Lawyers for both sides had been preparing to speak to the jury for the first time, microphones clipped to their jacket lapels.

The settlement spares Fox a trial that would have gone on for weeks and put many of the companys most prominent figures  from the media mogul Rupert Murdoch to hosts like Tucker Carlson and Maria Bartiromo  on the stand.

The case held the potential to make public a stream of damaging information about how the network told its audience a story of fraud and interference in the 2020 presidential election that many of its own executives and on-screen personalities did not believe. And the network was not forced to apologize  a concession that Dominion lawyers had sought, lawyers involved in the case said.

Dominion sued two years ago, after Fox aired false stories claiming that Dominions voting machines were susceptible to hacking and had flipped votes from President Donald J. Trump to Joseph R. Biden Jr. On Tuesday, the company expressed a sense of exoneration about the large financial cost that Fox will have to pay. While Dominions suit asked for damages of $1.6 billion, more than double the settlement figure, the company will avoid many years of appeals that could have trimmed or eliminated any payout from a trial.

Over two years ago, a torrent of lies swept Dominion and election officials across America into an alternative universe of conspiracy theories causing grievous harm to Dominion and the country, Mr. Nelson said. Todays settlement of $787.5 million represents vindication and accountability.

The case and the expected trial were significant because they raised the prospect for an elusive judgment in the post-Trump era: Very few allies of the former presidents have been held legally accountable for their roles in spreading the falsehoods that undermined confidence in the countrys democratic process and cast Mr. Bidens victory as illegitimate. Polls show that large numbers of Republicans still believe the 2020 election was tainted.

The size of the settlement, experts said, seems to have little precedent. RonNell Andersen Jones, a professor of law at the S.J. Quinney College of Law at the University of Utah, said she believed it was one of the largest settlements in a defamation case ever.

This was unquestionably the strongest defamation case weve ever seen against a major media company, Ms. Andersen Jones said. The case was even more unusual, she added, because media companies typically seek to settle well before so much damaging information about their internal workings is released.

A deal came together at the last possible minute, after months of almost no serious discussion between the two sides. As the case proceeded, Dominion divulged extraordinary details about the doubts that Fox employees expressed privately about voter fraud claims, even as they struck a different tone on the air.

Settlement before this trove of evidence became public would of course have been in Foxs best interest, Ms. Andersen Jones said. Waiting until the eve of trial, when the whole nation had a chance to focus on what Fox said internally about Trump, its sources and its own viewers, gave Dominion the extra layer of accountability it was seeking.

It is uncommon for defamation suits to get to trial, in part because the bar for proving actual malice  the legal standard that requires plaintiffs to show that defendants knew what they were saying was a lie, or had a reckless disregard for the truth  is so high. It is rarer yet for one to feature the volume of evidence that Dominion had amassed against Fox.

In the run-up to trial, Dominion publicly released reams of internal communications among Fox executives, hosts and producers that revealed how the countrys most-watched cable news network set in motion a strategy to win back viewers who had tuned out after Mr. Trumps loss. The messages tell the story of a frantic scramble inside Fox as it started losing audience share to competitors, like Newsmax, that were more willing to report on and endorse false claims about a plot involving Dominion machines to steal the election from Mr. Trump.

Producers referred to pro-Trump guests like Sidney Powell and Rudolph W. Giuliani as gold for ratings and acknowledged that the audience didnt want to hear about subjects like the possibility of a peaceful transition from a Trump administration to a Biden administration.

Those communications have shown how employees at Fox expressed serious doubts about and, at times, were scornful of Mr. Trump and his allies as they spread lies about voter fraud, questioning the legitimacy of Mr. Bidens election. Some at Fox mocked Mr. Trump and his lawyers as crazy and under the influence of drugs like L.S.D. and magic mushrooms.

Some Fox hosts privately described their colleagues as reckless for endorsing Mr. Trumps false claims, acknowledging that there was no evidence to back them up. Yet for weeks, Fox continued to give a platform to election deniers, despite doubts about their credibility. Dominion challenged statements made on multiple programs on multiple nights. Typically, defamation cases involve only a single disputed statement.

The trial would have been a spectacle. Mr. Murdoch, whose family controls the Fox media empire, was slated to be one of Dominions first witnesses this week. Star anchors including Sean Hannity, Mr. Carlson and Ms. Bartiromo were likely to be called at other points.

Even the most blockbuster media trials of the last generation  Ariel Sharons suit against Time and Gen. William C. Westmorelands against CBS, both in the 1980s  lacked the most explosive elements of this case, which raised weighty questions about the protections the First Amendment affords the media and whether one of the most influential forces in conservative politics would have to pay a price for amplifying misinformation.

Both of those cases were settled out of court, too.

In recent days, Fox raised questions about Dominions claims of damages. On Monday, it disputed Dominions worth, pointing to a recent legal filing in which the company lowered part of its request for compensation. Fox lawyers also raised doubts about the harm that Dominion had suffered, saying the company acknowledged that it had turned a profit in recent years.

But the potential pitfalls for proceeding with a trial were real for Fox. Some of the revelations from the depositions that Dominion had conducted offered a preview of how damaging a trial could be. Mr. Murdoch acknowledged during his deposition that some Fox hosts had endorsed Mr. Trumps lies, an admission that undercut Foxs defense that it was merely reporting on  not amplifying  the former presidents claims.

After the deposition concluded, the general counsel of Fox Corporation, Viet Dinh, tried to reassure Mr. Murdoch that he had done well.

Im just going to say it. They didnt lay a finger on you, Mr. Dinh said.

Mr. Murdoch disagreed, according to a person who witnessed the exchange. He pointed a finger at the lawyer who had questioned him for Dominion, Mr. Nelson, and said, I think he would strongly disagree with that.

To which Mr. Nelson replied, Indeed, I do.
The European Business Association (EBA) has asked the governments of Hungary, Poland and Slovakia to reconsider the decision as soon as possible and lift the temporary restriction of exports to/through the territories of the countries (including in transit) of Ukrainian agricultural products, as well as to prevent such a restriction from Bulgaria.

"It is worth noting that traditional export routes, in particular for Ukrainian agricultural products, have not previously passed, in particular, through Poland. However, 60%-70% of agricultural cargo transiting through Poland to the ports of Gdansk, Gdynia, Szczecin, intended for recipients of EU member states," the EBA said in a statement.

According to the participants of the business association, the decision to suspend the export and transit of neighboring countries actually led to a complete halt in the export of Ukrainian grain and other agricultural products to the European market. This has complicated the work of the grain corridor and created a threat to the export of agricultural products from Ukraine, which is necessary to support the economy of a country suffering from Russian aggression.

"Restrictions on imports to Poland, Hungary and Slovakia have been introduced for certain types of Ukrainian agricultural products, but according to business reports, goods that are not even included in this list are now being detained, in particular, sunflower oil, which creates even more incomprehensibility and is even more unacceptable," the association said.

The EBA said the introduction of any restrictive measures on the import of agricultural products from Ukraine should be introduced with advance notice so exporters have the opportunity to fulfil pre-signed contracts.

The business association expressed hope for the fastest possible settlement of the situation, unblocking exports and transit through the territory of Poland, Hungary and Slovakia and preventing such actions from Bulgaria.
In 2019, Taylor Hazlewood posted a picture of himself holding a friends hatchet on Instagram as a tribute to his favorite childhood book, Hatchet, a young-adult wilderness survival novel by Gary Paulsen.

Now, that image has surfaced in a starkly different genre.

Mr. Hazlewood is suing Netflix for using his photo in The Hatchet Wielding Hitchhiker, a true-crime documentary about a hitchhiker turned convicted murderer. Mr. Hazlewood, a 27-year-old respiratory therapist from Kentucky, has never been associated with a murder, let alone convicted of one, according to the lawsuit filed in District Court in Dallas last week.

He is seeking $1 million in damages for defamation and the misappropriation of his likeness.

Reached by phone on Tuesday, Mr. Hazlewood referred requests for comment to his lawyer, Angela Buchanan. In a statement, Ms. Buchanan said there should have been no confusion if Netflix had done its homework.

Because of the lack of due diligence, she said, Mr. Hazlewood has a constant fear regarding the impact the film will have on his personal relationships, his employment and his reputation in general.
Extreme heat can be deceptively dangerous, even in places accustomed to extreme heat. India learned that lesson in a deadly episode over the weekend.

On Sunday afternoon, at a government event on the outskirts of Mumbai, hundreds of thousands of people sat on a bare field, under a scorching mid-April sun, listening to a parade of politicians who appeared on a stage shaded by a roof, according to video from local television news.

The maximum temperature recorded at the nearest weather station was just above 35 degrees Celsius, or 95 Fahrenheit.

By the end of the day, at least 11 people had died of heat stroke. Some 50 were hospitalized. (Death toll estimates varied, with some news outlets reporting up to 13 deaths.)
Headliner

Mischa

Location shaped Alex Stupaks latest restaurant. With his flagship Empellon just two blocks away, Mr. Stupak, a former pastry chef, said he was forced to make it not Mexican, the cuisine for which he has become known. Drawing on his heritage (Ukrainian, Italian), a love for New York and the diverse American food scene, he has created a wide-ranging menu of interpretations on dishes like tater tots (long, crisp tubes), Caesar salad (rooted in Chinese broccoli) and a vegetarian burger (a mushroom patty melt). The pastas, kasha varnishkas, varenyky dumplings and brown butter spaetzle, are Eastern European. Italy does not own pasta, he said. Tuna poke, steaks, fried chicken and a housemade hot dog served with a raft of condiments are also on the day-into-evening menu. On a level overlooking the Hugh food hall, in the Citigroup Center, theres a stretch of honey-toned bar surrounded by tables at banquettes. Hang a right, and youre in a somewhat more formal dining room done in steely blue tones. An airy private room that doubles for a la carte, and the kitchen sit beyond. As for the name, its personal. Mr. Stupak said its what he was almost named.

157 East 53rd Street, 212-466-6381, mischa-nyc.com.

Opening

Heritage Grand Bakery Restaurant & Pizza Bar

The Venetian plaster, stone decor and exposed beams in this space suggest the Greek Islands, not pizza. But right up front, in the dining room, are a pair of domed pizza ovens facing a dining counter. The spacious room is adjacent to the Heritage Grand Bakery, with breads, pastries and sandwiches, that opened in late December. Both are joined in the rear by an open mixing room, where heirloom grains are milled for the baked goods, pastas and pizzas. The menu roams the Mediterranean, featuring deviled eggs, salads, charred cauliflower, roasted lamb chops and heirloom grain pastas. Running the show are Lou Ramirez from Maison Kayser and Le Pain Quotidien, the French baker Luc Boulet and the financier Alex Garese. (Opens Wednesday)

8 West 40th Street, 212-419-9163, heritagegrandbakery.com.

Carlotto

Somewhat hidden behind the sprawling seafood restaurant Oceans is a barrel-vaulted, brick-walled space that now houses this Italian restaurant. The executive chef, Andy Kitko, also runs the kitchen at Oceans. The Italian menu lists many dishes with names you know, including burrata, carpaccio, polpette, bucatini, branzino and parm. (Wednesday)

100 East 19th Street, 212-209-1054, carlottonewyork.com.

Wonder

This food hall slipped quietly into its Upper West Side location a couple of months ago. It offers foods by chefs like Bobby Flay, Marc Murphy and Michael Symon, as well as Di Fara Pizza and Tejas Barbecue from Texas. The owner, Marc Lore, an entrepreneur who plans more of these in coming months, bought the rights to use the names and recipes of companies like Bobby Flay Steak and Di Fara Pizza. He has also worked with the chefs to perfect recipes for food that is all prepared in a single kitchen. Unlike the average ghost kitchen, which is limited to delivery and pickup, there is seating.

2030 Broadway (70th Street), 855-818-5755, wonder.com.
A Lebanese art collector accused of financing the militant group Hezbollah evaded U.S. sanctions using a complex web of businesses to disguise millions of dollars in transactions involving art and diamonds, according to an indictment unsealed in Brooklyn federal court on Tuesday.

Nazem Ahmad and eight others were also charged with conspiring to defraud American and foreign governments and money laundering. His accountant, Sundar Nagarajan, was arrested in Britain on Tuesday at the request of American prosecutors; the remaining defendants, including Mr. Ahmad, are at large outside the United States, the authorities said.

The indictment was part of a raft of actions aimed at Mr. Ahmads global operations, all announced on the 40th anniversary of an attack on the U.S. embassy in Beirut that killed 63 people, which the United States blames on Hezbollah. The group, which is both an armed movement and a political party, is supported by Iran and designated a terrorist organization by the United States.

The Treasury Departments Office of Foreign Assets Control announced sanctions against 52 individuals and entities linked to Mr. Ahmad in nine countries, emphasizing that the murky nature of the art and luxury goods markets had been used to launder illicit proceeds.
The fight is similar to others being waged across the country, as cities weigh the best approach to addressing crime, homelessness and poverty. In Chicago, Brandon Johnson, the progressive Democratic candidate for mayor, won this month on a public safety message that went beyond policing, and focused on youth employment programs and mental health services.

Mr. Adams and his top political adviser, Evan Thies, each discounted the notion that the mayoral election in Chicago was a sign that Democratic values had shifted to the left, and that New York may follow suit.

When Lori Lightfoot, the outgoing mayor of Chicago, lost in the first round of voting last month, Mr. Adams said he did not view her loss as a warning sign for himself. What happened in Chicago, he said, is a message for all over the country that people want to be safe.

Mr. Thies sought to draw parallels between Mr. Adams, a former police officer in his second year in office, and Mayor-elect Johnson  even though Mr. Johnsons opponent in the runoff, Paul Vallas, was more in the Adams mold of a Democratic law-and-order candidate.

Both Mayor Adams and Mayor-elect Johnson ran campaigns that prioritized safety and justice, and were supported by large Black electorates, Mr. Thies said in a statement.
The chairman, though, was quite explicit in his expression of sympathy for the victims of violent crimes brought to testify in front of the committee, among them Madeline Brame, whose son was murdered in Upper Manhattan. Certain turns of phrase were repeated so often in the hearings that they might have lent themselves to a drinking game had most of this not transpired before lunchtime. Republicans referred to the Sorosization of the criminal justice system over and over, not intending it as a compliment, and Dan Goldman, elected to the House last year to serve downtown Manhattan and Brownstone Brooklyn, pointed to the antisemitic overtones.

For roughly four hours, the hearing played out as a fusillade of statistics, impressions and misimpressions, as Republicans argued that New York was a hellscape of unchecked violence and chaos  viral videos of which were shown on local news programs around the country to to prove it. Democrats on the committee countered that things were much worse in so many other places, especially in the cities and states from which their political adversaries had come. One Republican out-of-towner proved that he had already internalized the reflexes of a certain kind of New Yorker, whether he could appreciate it or not, when he mentioned the cabdriver he had interrogated, after landing, about how much he worried about crime.

The New York Police Department, like the police departments of many other cities around the country, offers the public a weekly account of crime both citywide and by precinct, which might have obviated the need for a lot of the bickering. But then where would the drama have come from? The data tells us that citywide murder is down 6.6 percent so far this year, and shootings are down 23 percent, compared to last year.

Still, is the vibe of the city more lawless than it has ever been? Robert F. Holden, a Democrat and a City Council member representing a district in Queens  which, it ought to be noted, is not in Manhattan  and the only elected official of local government asked to testify, said that yes, it did feel more lawless. His wife, who is Asian American, was afraid to take the subway, fearful of hate crime. She is justified in this worry. Although hate crimes have fallen 40 percent citywide compared with the same period last year, in Queens, where Mr. Bragg has no jurisdiction, they have gone up.

Nicole Malliotakis, the Republican congresswoman from Staten Island, where major crimes have increased this year, showed up about two and a half hours into the hearing to observe and offer herself to reporters. In the overflow room outside the hearing, she talked about the dangers delivered to the world by reform-minded prosecutors, claiming that one in every 67 New Yorkers was a crime victim. When asked whether this hearing would have been conducted had there been no Trump indictment, Ms. Malliotakis insisted it would have, adding that, This is an issue I have been pushing.
Men got cups of coffee from a stand installed in the middle of the room. Chipper employees handed out bottles of water. One man sat on a leather couch, leaned his head back and closed his eyes.

Chick-fil-A called the Brake Room an act of community care, but it also used the space to conduct focus groups and case studies, investigating the needs of delivery workers.

For instance, as the space was being designed, delivery workers who were interviewed requested supportive chairs; they ride bikes all day, and their backs hurt. We had all these stools, and we were like, Cancel the stools! said Katie Joiner, a member of Chick-fil-As marketing team.

The Brake Room may also have been a tactical attempt to counteract neighborhood negativity. Shortly after the Upper East Side Chick-fil-A restaurant opened on Third Avenue in 2019, it became known for attracting a crowd of delivery workers. A December 2021 community board meeting addressed what residents described as curbside, sidewalk and roadway congestion caused by double parking and delivery tents in the parking lane.

The Brake Room experiment has also been an opportunity for the Atlanta-based company to learn how New York operates. In other, more car-oriented cities, Chick-fil-A drive-throughs are known for having long lines. Other cities dont have the large fleets of two-wheeled deliverers like New York does. A person making deliveries by car can rest in the vehicle, maybe use the bathroom at a gas station. New York is different. And Chick-fil-A restaurants in the city, like a lot of other eateries in New York, rely on their delivery business: Approximately half of the Upper East Side Chick-fil-As annual sales are from delivery orders.
A man whom the Police Department described as a leader of a gang that perpetrated a series of robberies and killings at Manhattan gay bars has been arrested, law enforcement officials said on Tuesday.

The man, Jayqwan Hamilton, 35, of Brooklyn, was arrested on Monday and charged with murder, grand larceny and other crimes in connection with the killings of Julio Ramirez and John Umberger, two men who were drugged at bars in Manhattan, robbed using facial recognition technology on their phones and later found dead of overdoses.

Law enforcement said the motive for the killings was financial, but the murders nevertheless terrorized the citys L.G.B.T.Q. population, for whom a small number of well-known bars often function as de facto community centers. They also drew attention to the prevalence of deadly and easily obtainable drugs in New Yorks nightlife.

The source of this crime was clearly rooted in greed and total disregard for the victims, said Mayor Eric Adams at a news conference on Tuesday. He added, We want to send a message to the L.G.B.T. community: We understand the trauma you experienced during this time.
ALBANY, N.Y.  Judge Rowan Wilson, a liberal-leaning jurist, was confirmed as chief judge of New York States highest court on Tuesday, making him the first Black judge to hold the post at a time when state courts are playing a crucial role in deciding questions of fundamental rights.

Judge Wilsons elevation from associate judge to chief judge of the Court of Appeals could open a new chapter for the court after the six-year tenure of Janet DiFiore, the previous chief judge, who wielded her influence to push the court to the right.

His confirmation by the State Senate in a 40-to-19 vote marked the end of a tumultuous quarrel that had divided ruling Democrats in Albany after the upper chamber rejected Gov. Kathy Hochuls initial nominee two months ago, in an unprecedented rebuke by her own party.

In addition to deciding cases that reach the Court of Appeals, at times among the most influential courts in the country, the chief judge administers the states court system, with its 16,000 employees and $3 billion budget.
After 70 years, the partnership between New York and New Jersey to keep organized crime out of one the nations biggest cargo ports is over.

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled on Tuesday that New Jersey can unilaterally withdraw from the Waterfront Commission of New York Harbor, which was formed by a bistate compact in 1953. The decision ends an uneasy alliance that was a rare source of discord between the two states.

New Yorks attorney general, Letitia James, asked the nations top court to intervene last year to prevent New Jersey from dissolving the shipping industry-funded commission, whose origin dates back to an era when mobsters controlled the docks around the harbor. Ms. James said at the time that New Jerseys effort to break the compact was unlawful, ill-advised and infringes on our efforts to crack down on crime.

But the justices unanimously disagreed.

In a decision written by Justice Brett Kavanaugh, the court said that, although the compact did not address the question of a states right to withdraw, the states did not intend for the commission to operate forever. Given that the States did not intend for the agreement to be perpetual, it would not make much sense to conclude that each State implicitly conferred on the other a perpetual veto of withdrawal, Justice Kavanaugh wrote.
Militants of PMC 'Wagner' who confessed to murder of Ukrainian children must be identified, punished - Lubinets

PMC "Wagner" militants who confessed to the murder of Ukrainian children must be identified and fairly punished, Dmytro Lubinets, Verkhovna Rada Commissioner for Human Rights, said.

"Information appeared on the network that, probably, prisoners from the 'Wagner' PMC confessed to the murders of Ukrainian children in Bakhmut and Soledar. One of them says that he shot a five-six-year-old girl in the head. According to him, they were ordered to destroy all men, women, pensioners and even children. These words must be recorded and verified, and those who tell them must be identified," Lubinets wrote on his Telegram channel.

He noted that in case of confirmation of the deliberate killing of Ukrainian children by the Russian military, all response measures must be taken.

"For war crimes on the territory of our country, the perpetrators must be fairly punished," the Ombudsman stressed.

Lubinets recalled that according to official data, 470 children were killed in Ukraine as a result of the war, 407 went missing, and 19,384 children were deported by the aggressor country.

"However, we understand that these figures can be much higher," Lubinets said.

As reported, the Prosecutor General's Office began checking information about the killings of children by "Wagner" militants.
Homicides are, in fact, down in Chicago, but they remain at some of the highest rates since the 1990s, and overall crime spiked by 41 percent between 2021 and 2022. Last weekend alone, mass hooliganism overwhelmed Chicagos downtown while 11 people were killed and 26 wounded in shootings across the city.

Maybe theres a lesson in this, simple and old-fashioned as it may seem. When bad guys walk free and brave cops have to fear for their jobs for doing their jobs, crime tends to go up. And when the national conversation about the Adam Toledo tragedy revolves around the officers split-second, life-or-death decision instead of the question What is a 13-year-old child doing with a 21-year-old criminal firing a gun at 2:30 a.m.? then we are deeply confused about the nature of our problems, to say nothing of the way to a solution.

A similar dynamic is playing out in other big cities, too. Police morale is abysmal. One way in which this fact registers is in high levels of voluntary resignations and early retirements, leading to critical staffing shortages. As of mid-March, New Orleans had 944 police officers  down from 1,200 just three years ago, despite increased recruitment efforts. Last year the city registered a 100 percent increase in shootings over 2019. Criminals know theres not enough officers on the street! They know this! Delores Montgomery, a ride-share driver, recently told NPR. Fewer cops; more crime: Who would have thought?

New Orleans isnt alone. A recent academic analysis found that 11 out of the 14 cities it studied suffered from higher-than-expected losses to their police after the George Floyd protests of 2020, with Seattle losing the highest proportion of its force. One possible unfortunate result, the study suggests, is that, as good cops depart, the quality of newer recruits also suffers. That may help explain the appalling police brutality in the killing of Tyre Nichols in Memphis in January.

Then theres the other side: The growing sense of impunity among the criminally inclined.

In Chicago, the proportion of crimes reported that resulted in arrest, which stood at nearly 31 percent in 2005, fell to 12.3 percent in 2021, according to an analysis last year by The Chicago Sun-Times. Even that may be an undercount, since fewer crimes in the city are being reported both to and by the police.
Several environmentalists last year presented Africas leading climate negotiators with a bold idea: A technology called solar geoengineering could protect their countries from the worst effects of climate change, they said. While insisting they were impartial, representatives from the Carnegie Climate Governance Initiative said that these technologies, which claim to be able to re-engineer the climate itself, either by dimming the suns rays or reflecting sunlight away from the earth, could quickly and cheaply turn the tide of dangerously rising temperatures  and that poor countries might have the most to gain.

It wasnt the first time Westerners have tried to persuade Africans that solar engineering projects may be in our best interest. And it wont be the last. In May, another international nonprofit, the Climate Overshoot Commission, headquartered in Paris, is hosting an event in Nairobi to help drum up support for research on solar geoengineering and other related technologies it says could be helpful in reducing risks when the world exceeds its global warming targets.

As a climate expert, I consider these environmental manipulation techniques extremely risky. And as an African climate expert, I strongly object to the idea that Africa should be turned into a testing ground for their use. Even if solar geoengineering can help deflect heat and improve weather conditions on the ground  a prospect that is unproven on any relevant scale  its not a long-term solution to climate change. It sends a message to the world that we can carry on over-consuming and polluting because we will be able to engineer our way out of the problem.

The solar engineering technology attracting the most attention would use balloons or aircraft to spray large quantities of aerosols  tiny particles of, for example, sulfur dioxide or engineered nanoparticles  into the stratosphere to dim the sunlight. Its called solar radiation management and its highly speculative.Without using the whole earth as a laboratory, its impossible to know whether it would dim anything, let alone how it would affect ecosystems, people and the global climate.
It is easy to understand the appeal of such one-sided tales. As human beings, we seem to prefer to impose clear and linear narratives on a chaotic and unpredictable reality; ambiguity and contradiction are much harder to live with. Yet this selective emphasis gives rise to accounts of the world that are fundamentally flawed. To truly grasp the complex nature of our current time, we need first of all to embrace its most terrifying aspect: its fundamental open-endedness. It is precisely this radical uncertainty  not knowing where we are and what lies ahead  that gives rise to such existential anxiety.

Anthropologists have a name for this disturbing type of experience: liminality. It sounds technical, but it captures an essential aspect of the human condition. Derived from the Latin word for threshold, liminality originally referred to the sense of disorientation that arises during a rite of passage. In a traditional coming-of-age ritual, for instance, it marks the point at which the adolescent is no longer considered a child but is not yet recognized as an adult  betwixt and between, neither here nor there. Ask any teenager: Such a state of suspension can be a very disconcerting time to live through.

We are ourselves in the midst of a painful transition, a sort of interregnum, as the Italian political theorist Antonio Gramsci famously called it, between an old world that is dying and a new one that is struggling to be born. Such epochal shifts are inevitably fraught with danger. Yet for all their destructive potential, they are also full of possibility. As the 19th-century historian Jacob Burckhardt once noted, the great upheavals in world history can equally be seen as genuine signs of vitality that clear the ground of discredited ideas and decaying institutions. The crisis, he wrote, is to be regarded as a new nexus of growth.

Once we embrace this Janus-faced nature of our times, at once frightening yet generative, a very different vision of the future emerges. No longer do we conceive of history as a straight line tending either up toward gradual improvement or down toward an inevitable collapse. Rather, we see phases of relative calm punctuated every so often by periods of great upheaval. These crises can be devastating, but they are also the drivers of history. Progress and catastrophe, those binary opposites, are really joined at the hip. Together, they engage in an endless dance of creative destruction, forever breaking new ground and spiraling out into the unknown.

Our age of upheaval may well result in some global catastrophe or even the collapse of modern civilization  but it may also open up possibilities for transformative change. We can already see these contradictory dynamics at work all around us. A pandemic that killed millions of people and nearly led to economic collapse has also empowered workers and ramped up government spending on vaccine development, which may soon give us a cure for cancer. Similarly, a major European land war that has uprooted millions and unleashed a global energy crisis is now inadvertently accelerating the shift to renewable energy, helping us in the fight against climate change.
To the Editor:

Re There Are Promising Signs for Free Speech on Campuses, by David French (column, April 17):

I hope Mr. Frenchs column is correct. Freedom of speech, as provided for in the First Amendment, is a bedrock principle of our constitutional democracy.

It is based on the premise of neutral principles. It guarantees all of us the fundamental right to express ourselves regardless of our viewpoints. Its meaning and significance for a free society cannot be misunderstood or minimized.

Individuals who profess to believe in free speech demonstrate their commitment to the principle not merely when they support the right of a speaker with whom they agree but also when they show that support for a speaker whose viewpoint is antithetical to their own.

Norman Siegel

New York

The writer is a civil rights lawyer and a former executive director of the New York Civil Liberties Union.
I dont always succeed. It strikes me as deeply weird and contingent, for example, that it is normal to sit through hourslong opera performances in a language other than ones own, and supertitles help only a little. Yes, some operas are less amenable to translation than others. But I suspect that if we rolled the dice again and almost all operas were performed in America in English, very few people would wish that we could instead hear them in their original languages. (Do any fans of The Threepenny Opera and its breakout song, Mack the Knife, pine for the original German?)

I also feel that some of the especially opaque passages in Shakespeares plays should be modestly adjusted to accommodate the fact that English has changed enough over the past 500 years that, too often, one can barely get even the gist of his meaning in live performance. (Reading the plays is a different matter.) For Shakespeare, generous meant noble  a fact that neither context nor good acting can get across. Onstage, I would sub in noble, just as I would use precision where Shakespeare uses curiosity and authority where Shakespeare uses faculties.

Yet I am realizing that with Steely Dan I have always been of a different mind. In Turn That Heartbeat Over Again, where the song warmly beseeches Oh, Michael, oh, Jesus / You know Im not to blame, Michael and Jesus are what van Vogt would call hang-ups  they are not specific references. Ive always found that moment in the lyric pleasantly and passingly earnest, and thats about it. And it has never bothered me. Nor has the songs cryptic counsel to turn the light off, keep your shirt on.

The sour little rant Through With Buzz never specifies who this Buzz is; he has apparently taken the protagonists girlfriend. Its fun in the book that LeMay gives us a painting of Buzz, which seems to nail him, more or less, but then so many other renditions could as well. (I didnt think of him as middle-aged!) The weirdness of the song compounds in that it runs only a minute and a half and is accompanied by a string ensemble a la Eleanor Rigby. The book also teaches us that the protagonist of Kid Charlemagne is the sound engineer and drug cooker Owsley Stanley III, who pops up in Tom Wolfes The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test. The famous line in the song, Is there gas in the car? / Yes, theres gas in the car, refers to Stanley often being on the run from the law.

Quantum Criminals fairly drips with information like this, and I have drunk it in eagerly  while being surprised by how little I have minded not knowing it. And, in some ways, almost not wanting to know it. The obscurity becomes a kind of poetry, perhaps in the sense that many intend when they say they process Shakespeare less word for word than for a more general sense of beauty and allusion.
TAITUNG, Taiwan  A friend of mine in Taipei recently wrote a passionate Facebook post urging young people in Taiwan to prepare for war with China. The only way to respond to Chinese threats to seize the island was, he argued, with strength; anything else was a delusion. Despite being in his 60s, he vowed to take up arms if necessary.

Its become a troublingly common sentiment in Taiwan, and I messaged him privately to say that strength should be only a part of Taiwans strategy, that our politicians and other public figures should show true courage by reaching out to China to somehow de-escalate. When a stronger bully threatens you, shouldnt you first try to defuse the situation?

Dont be a capitulator, he shot back.

That exchange, pitting friend against friend, is emblematic of the damage that China already is inflicting on Taiwan without a single shot having been fired.

The threat of Chinese aggression, and how to confront it, is dividing Taiwans society. To accuse someone of being a traitorous Communist licker or, conversely, of fanning tension by being dangerously anti-China has become the norm. Fear of conflict with China is tearing at tolerance, civility and our confidence in the democratic society we have painstakingly built. When 37 current and former Taiwan scholars last month issued an open letter calling for Taipei to chart a middle path between China and the United States and criticizing U.S. militarism, they were attacked as naive and soft on China. This division and distrust play right into Chinas hands.
Few things in science appear to be as delicate or precarious as the giant mirrors at the hearts of modern telescopes. These mirrors  doughnuts of glass meters in diameter, weighing tons and costing millions of dollars  are polished within a fraction of a wavelength of visible light into the precise concavity required to gather and focus starlight from the other end of the universe.

When not at work, they are sheltered in lofty domes that protect them from the distortions of humidity, wind and changes in temperature. But this cannot shield them from all the vicissitudes of nature and humanity, as I was reminded on a recent visit to the Las Campanas Observatory in Chile.

As my hosts showed off one of their prized telescope mirrors  20 feet of shiny, immaculately curved aluminum-coated glass  I couldnt help noticing a small, suspicious smudge. It looked like the kind of smear you might find on your windshield in the morning, especially if you had parked under a tree.

Birds, one astronomer grumbled when asked what it was.

It happens all the time, other astronomers say. Michael Bolte, now an emeritus professor at the University of California, Santa Cruz, recalled giving the governor of Wyoming a tour of the Wyoming Infrared Observatory, outside Laramie, in 1981. We went up on the service platform and looked down, and there were bird droppings all over the mirror, he said. It looked awful.
Reader: Heather Hodges, 52, New Orleans

Where she went: Seville, Spain

Tell us about your trip: I booked the trip two days before flying out to Spain. I spent every day sightseeing and every night at a flamenco performance. Everything about Seville reminded me of New Orleans, and it is one of three places I have visited in the world as an African-American Southerner where I felt completely at ease  and at home.

How much did it cost? About $3,000 for a week last December. The largest expense was airfare. There are not many direct international flights out of New Orleans, so I had to take several connecting flights.

Most surprising cost: No real surprises.

Why did you choose this trip? I wanted to see flamenco and learn more about the long African presence in Iberia and Andalusia. Its important to understanding the history and culture of where I live and the broader African Diaspora from which I am descended.

Was this your first solo vacation? No. When I first started doing it almost 20 years ago, people still found solo Black women travelers unusual, especially at the holidays. First I ventured to Caribbean destinations. Then, as I became more comfortable traveling alone, I went to bigger European capitals. And I havent stopped.
The legal effort to ban mail-order abortion pills came along just as the fledgling telehealth industry became a more accepted and entrenched part of abortion care.

This week, Hey Jane, one of more than a dozen virtual abortion providers that have no physical locations, began contracting with the insurers Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield of Connecticut, Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield of New York and Sana, which provides health plans for small businesses nationwide. Hey Jane also already accepted Aetna in eight of the nine states in which it operates.

Its unusual for insurers to cover telehealth abortions, and most virtual clinics are cash only. The clinics are new, and insurance coverage for abortion varies widely. In the year before Roe v. Wade was overturned, just a third of abortion patients used insurance. Some states require private insurers to cover abortions, while others bar it. Federal law prohibits the use of Medicaid for most abortions, though 16 states use state funds to cover them. But even plans that do cover abortion dont generally include these new telehealth providers in their networks.

Health insurers tend to cover treatments that are widely accepted by clinicians and cost-effective, and Hey Janes insurance partnerships are the latest sign that virtual abortion clinics are seen by the health care industry as a safe, in-demand option. They also tend to be less expensive than in-clinic procedures for both patients and insurers.
A small newspaper in rural Oklahoma secretly recorded what it said was an illegal public meeting where a county official talked about hanging Black people and several officials spoke of hiring hit men and digging holes for two of the newspapers reporters.

Gov. Kevin Stitt of Oklahoma said on Monday that four officials in McCurtain County  the sheriff, a jail administrator, a sheriffs department investigator and a county commissioner  should resign. One of those officials, the county commissioner, Mark Jennings, said he was resigning in a letter released by the governors office on Wednesday.

But the sheriffs office has argued that the recording violated state law because it was made without the consent of at least one of the parties involved. The office also claimed the recording had been altered, although it was not clear how.

Clips of the recording released on Friday night by the newspaper, The McCurtain Gazette-News, have touched off shock and anger in the county of about 31,000 residents in the southeastern corner of the state, bordering Arkansas and Texas.
Ukraine's MFA to statements of Brazilian President: We striving to end Russian aggression on basis of Ukrainian peace formula more than anyone else

Speaker of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Oleh Nikolenko, commenting on the statements of Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on ways to end the war, stressed that Ukraine is striving to end aggression of the Russian Federation on the basis of the Ukrainian peace formula, and an approach where the victim and the aggressor is placed on the same scales, does not correspond to the real state of affairs.

"Ukraine is watching with interest the efforts of the President of Brazil to find a solution to end the war. At the same time, the approach where the victim and the aggressor are placed on the same scales does not correspond to the real state of affairs, and the countries that help Ukraine defend against deadly aggression are accused of encouraging war," Nikolenko wrote on Facebook.

The Foreign Ministry stressed that "Ukraine does not need to be convinced of anything."

"A war of conquest is being waged on Ukrainian soil and brings untold suffering and destruction. We, more than anyone in the world, are striving to end Russian aggression on the basis of the Peace Formula proposed by President Zelenskyy," Nikolenko said.

Also, the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry confirmed the invitation to Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva to visit Ukraine in order to understand the real causes and essence of Russian aggression and its consequences for global security.

Earlier, da Silva offered Ukraine to cede the occupied Crimean peninsula to the aggressor in order to end the war with the Russian Federation.

The President of Brazil also called for the creation of an analogue of the G20 to achieve peace in Ukraine with the participation of Latin American countries, China and the United Arab Emirates. In addition, he accused the United States and the EU of "encouraging" the war.
The directive reiterated the departments policy that classified information can be transmitted only on appropriate government networks and may not be sent through commercially available encrypted channels such as WhatsApp and Signal.

New policies may be forthcoming that restrict or delete email distribution lists on classified computer networks, the memo said, and that limit access to certain intelligence and the ability to print paper copies of reports posted on the Joint Worldwide Intelligence Communications System, or JWICS, a government computer network for top-secret information.

The department is taking this breach seriously and continues to work around the clock to better understand the scope and scale of these leaks, Sabrina Singh, the deputy Pentagon press secretary, told reporters on Monday. Throughout last week and over the course of the weekend, the secretary and senior Pentagon officials continue to convene daily meetings to examine the scope and scale of this disclosure, as well as ensure that appropriate mitigation measures are being taken.

Ms. Singh said the Pentagon has already begun reviewing the distribution lists for sensitive reports in order to identify recipients who no longer need to know the information.

That effort is going to be ongoing, she said. Its not just going to stop tomorrow and its not going to stop after a week. This is going to be a long-term effort.

The defense secretary, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and other senior leaders in the department have been contacting their counterparts in allied nations to discuss the disclosures, Ms. Singh added.

The Pentagons review is being led by Ronald S. Moultrie, the under secretary of defense for intelligence and security. Mr. Moultrie oversees all aspects of the Defense Departments interactions with the wider intelligence community, including the National Security Agency, which intercepts communications and hacks into computer networks around the world, and the National Reconnaissance Office, which runs the countrys network of spy satellites.
WASHINGTON  Senator Bob Menendez, one of the loudest and most powerful Democratic critics of the Biden administrations immigration policies, said this week that he had delivered a list of recommended executive actions to the White House to address illegal migration at the southern border in a more humane way.

The move is unusual for Mr. Menendez, a three-term Democrat from New Jersey and the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, who has for years focused on immigration policy and introduced a number of bills meant to change the outdated system.

But Mr. Menendez acknowledged the reality that Congress was unlikely to pass immigration legislation soon. His decision to go public with his recommendations reflects his growing frustration that President Biden is falling short on his immigration promises.

I do believe that there are a series of executive actions the administration can take that would more effectively and humanely deal with our challenges, Mr. Menendez said in an interview with The New York Times.
WASHINGTON  Republicans on Tuesday blocked an attempt by Democrats to temporarily replace the ailing Senator Dianne Feinstein of California on the Judiciary Committee, raising new questions about how her party will be able to move forward with Senate work without her.

Pressure is mounting for Ms. Feinstein, 89, who was hospitalized with shingles in February and has announced she will not seek re-election in 2024, to resign now. Her prolonged absence means Democrats will be unable to advance President Bidens judicial nominees and could be short of a vote on other crucial matters, including action expected to be needed in the coming months to raise the debt ceiling to avert a catastrophic default.

Hoping for a short-term solution, Senator Chuck Schumer, Democrat of New York and the majority leader, asked on Tuesday evening that he be allowed to replace Ms. Feinstein temporarily on the Judiciary panel with Senator Benjamin L. Cardin of Maryland.

Today, I am acting not just as leader but as Diannes friend, in honoring her wishes until she returns to the Senate, Mr. Schumer said, adding that few have left their mark on this country as she has.
Andrew D. Lester, the 84-year-old man accused of shooting Ralph Yarl, a Black teenager, in Kansas City, Mo., turned himself in to the authorities on Tuesday, a day after he was charged with assault in the first degree and armed criminal action.

The sheriffs department in Clay County, Mo., announced early Tuesday afternoon that Mr. Lester, who is white, was in police custody. He was released on bond later in the day.

Mr. Lester, who lives in a quiet neighborhood on the northern edge of Kansas City, is charged with shooting Ralph twice on Thursday night after the teenager stood on Mr. Lesters front porch, having arrived at the wrong address to pick up his siblings.

The authorities submitted the case to the Clay County prosecuting attorneys office on Monday. The prosecutor, Zachary Thompson, said there was a racial component to the case, but declined to elaborate.
WASHINGTON  The Republican chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee promised donors this month that he would produce an impeachment case against the Biden administrations homeland security chief, Alejandro N. Mayorkas, saying that the secretarys appearance before the panel this week would be the beginning of his demise.

Representative Mark E. Green told an enthusiastic crowd in his home state of Tennessee last week that his committee would expose Mr. Mayorkass dereliction of duty and his intentional destruction of our country through the open southern border. He said the panel would deliver charges to the House Judiciary Committee, which handles impeachment proceedings, according to an audio recording of a House Freedom Caucus fund-raiser obtained by The New York Times.

He said he had a five-phase plan for doing so and that the Homeland Security Committee would put together a packet, and we will hand it to Jim Jordan and let Jim do what Jim does best.

Mr. Green apparently was referring to Representative Jim Jordan, the Ohio Republican who leads the Judiciary panel. His comments made clear that G.O.P. leaders are serious about their threats to impeach Mr. Mayorkas. He said the plan would start with an appearance by the secretary before his committee on Wednesday.
Justice Neil M. Gorsuch said there was general agreement that the phrase was a misstep.

I think theres common ground, too, he said, that de minimis cant be the test, in isolation at least, because Congress doesnt pass civil rights legislation to have de minimis effect, right? We dont think of the civil rights laws as trifling, which is the definition of de minimis.

He added, echoing an adage, The law does not concern itself with trifles.

The Hardison decision interpreted Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, a federal law that requires employers to reasonably accommodate workers religious practice so long as they can do so without undue hardship to the companys business.

Much of the argument concerned what alternative interpretation of undue hardship the court should offer to guide lower courts and employers.

The case was brought by Gerald Groff, an evangelical Christian and former missionary who worked as a substitute mail carrier. After the U.S. Postal Service struck a deal with Amazon in 2013 to deliver packages on Sundays, Mr. Groff said he had to choose between his faith and his livelihood, opting to quit after being disciplined for missing work.

Solicitor General Elizabeth B. Prelogar, representing the Postal Service, said Mr. Groffs refusal to work on Sundays imposed a significant burden on a small post office, was in tension with an agreement with a labor union and was bad for other workers morale.
The lead prosecutor investigating election interference by former President Donald J. Trump and his allies in Georgia filed a motion on Tuesday accusing two defense lawyers in the case of misconduct. The prosecutor, Fani T. Willis, the district attorney of Fulton County, Ga., sought to have one of the lawyers, Kimberly B. Debrow, thrown off the proceedings.

Ms. Debrow represents 10 Georgia Republicans who were part of a bogus slate of electors for Mr. Trump under a broader plan to reverse the results of the 2020 presidential election and keep him in power. According to the motion, some of the electors recently told prosecutors that Ms. Debrow and another attorney, Holly Pierson, had not informed them of offers of immunity in exchange for cooperation that were made last year.

The filing noted that Ms. Pierson had previously told the court that she and Ms. Debrow had spoken to their clients about potential immunity offers, but that none of their clients were interested.

Ms. Pierson represents David Shafer, the head of the Georgia Republican Party, who served as one of the fake electors. She and Ms. Debrow, who are being paid by the state party, had originally represented 11 electors until a judge forced them to separate Mr. Shafer from the other 10. In a statement, Ms. Pierson said that Ms. Williss allegations of misconduct were entirely false, adding that the court already has documents in its possession that prove it.
A U.S. diplomatic convoy came under attack on Monday in Sudans capital, Khartoum, Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken said, the same day that the European Unions ambassador to the African nation was assaulted, a sign of the deteriorating security situation.

All of our people are safe, Mr. Blinken said at a news conference on Tuesday in Karuizawa, Japan, where he was attending a Group of 7 meeting. Mr. Blinken said that the attack was still under investigation but that initial reports indicated that the assailants might have been tied to the Rapid Support Forces, the paramilitary group battling Sudans Army in clashes that began on Saturday.

We will continue to track this very closely and very carefully, Mr. Blinken said.

He said the U.S. convoy had diplomatic license plates and bore American flags, clearly identifying it.

The convoy was carrying American officials from their homes in the city to a large American residential compound in central Khartoum, said four diplomatic officials, who asked not to be named because of security concerns. Gunfire hit an armored vehicle in the convoy, but none of its occupants were injured, the officials said.
Street battles and rocket strikes deepened the chaos across Sudan on Tuesday as a cease-fire between the countrys two warring generals fizzled, paralyzing the capital and trapping civilians in their homes for fear of the crossfire.

Parents and children, doctors and students, officials and high-profile diplomats all have come under attack since the fighting broke out over the weekend. So did a diplomatic convoy carrying American citizens, and a senior E.U. official was wounded by gunfire.

At least 185 people have been killed and more than 1,800 injured in the past four days, United Nations officials said, though the true toll is most likely far higher.

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken said on Tuesday that he had spoken with Lt. Gen. Mohamed Hamdan, the leader of the paramilitary group implicated in the attack on the U.S. convoy. General Hamdan then called for a 24-hour cease-fire to allow civilians to evacuate or obtain desperately needed supplies.
The Israelis had come to Mexico to clinch a major sale: The Mexican military was about to become the first client ever to buy their product, the worlds most advanced spyware.

But before they could close the deal, an argument erupted over price and how quickly the spy tool could be delivered. A Mexican general overseeing the negotiations called for a pause until later that evening, according to two people present and a third with knowledge of the talks.

Well pick you up at your hotel and make sure to arrange a better atmosphere, they recalled the general saying.

That night, a convoy of cars arrived at the Israeli executives hotel and took them to a new spot for the fateful negotiations: a strip club in the heart of Mexico City.
Ukraine will retain the ban on the export of gas and energy coal for the time being in order to ensure national interests, Energy Minister Herman Haluschenko said.

"Not yet. This is a very difficult question. Of course, business is interested in exporting. But in retrospect, we can say for sure: if it were not banned, then, given the price situation in European markets, all the gas of private owners would be in Europe," he said at a press conference in Kyiv on Tuesday.

At the same time, the minister noted that, in his opinion, the decision to ban the export of gas and energy coal, taken under martial law in 2022, ensured the security of energy supplies on the domestic market.

According to the minister, the peculiarity of the completed heating season was, in particular, that Ukraine passed it absolutely without coal imports. According to the data voiced by the minister, before the heating season, it had more than 2 million tonnes of coal, at the end of the heating season there were about 1.2 million tonnes, now the volume of coal is about 1.5 million tonnes.

As for gas, the official said its sufficient reserves made it possible for the coal blocks of thermal power plants to operate on this fuel, the main design fuel of which is anthracite, in conditions of capacity shortage due to shelling of the energy system by Russian invaders.
Top diplomats from the United States and the rest of the Group of 7 nations closed a three-day meeting in Japan on Tuesday with a forceful statement of unity against new assertiveness by both Russia and China, drawing a firm line on tight cooperation on security as well as economic issues.

The show of unity came after a monthslong diplomatic charm offensive by Xi Jinping, Chinas leader, in which he made a point of courting European officials in Beijing and trying to peel them away from the United States. The statement by the diplomats amounted to a declaration by a core of liberal countries rallying to push back against what many of their officials called the separate predations of Russia and China.

But the discussions in Japan failed to address the thorniest issue in the countries dealings with China: How to reconcile their opposition to Beijings strategic and military goals with continuing to maintain deep trade ties with the worlds second-largest economy. Antony J. Blinken, the U.S. secretary of state, acknowledged Tuesday that each nation had consequential relations with China. Further competing visions could emerge within the group on how to balance that main tension in their ties.

As the United States and allied nations grapple with questions about their unity in dealing with Russias wartime aggression and Chinas growing assertiveness, Mr. Blinken stressed on Tuesday at the close of the meetings in Japan that the countries spoke with one voice.
At least 21 people died after a fire erupted in a hospital in Beijing on Tuesday, forcing patients trapped inside to cram up against windows, awaiting rescue, while at least one jumped to a roof below to escape the flames and smoke. The fire appeared to be the deadliest in the Chinese capital in the past two decades.

It broke out in an inpatient building of the Changfeng Hospital in the citys south at just before 1 p.m., and firefighters had largely put out the flames within less than 40 minutes, said the brief official report issued by the Beijing Daily, the citys official newspaper. Dozens of patients were evacuated, but by early evening 21 people had died, apparently from the flames and dense smoke.

The death count may still rise, and the official report did not say whether any bodies may be left in the building. The toll has already surpassed that from a fire in the Daxing District of Beijing in 2017 that killed 19 people in a cramped apartment building housing migrant workers. In 2002, a fire at an internet cafe in the city killed 25.

The latest disaster is a blow to the Chinese capital, which has been returning to normality after nearly three years of heavy pandemic controls were lifted, giving way to a sometimes deadly wave of Covid infections last year. Official Chinese media reported on the fire late in the evening, many hours after it had been extinguished, in an apparent reflection of the authorities sensitivity about public anger over the grim news.
An experienced alpinist from Northern Ireland was found dead and another climber from India went missing on the same mountain in central Nepal on Tuesday. It was the second fatal climbing accident in a week as the mountaineering season in the Himalayas got off to a deadly start.

The Northern Irish climber, Noel Hanna, who had scaled Mount Everest 10 times, was found dead inside his tent at Camp 4 of Annapurna after scaling the 26,545-foot-tall mountain without supplemental oxygen on Monday, officials said. Camp 4 is the final camp before the summit.

Yubaraj Khatiwada, a tourism official in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, said the cause of Mr. Hannas death was unclear. The climber had just descended from Annapurna, the worlds 10th-highest peak, according to his expedition agency, Seven Summit Treks.

Mr. Khatiwada also said that two Indian mountaineers went missing on Monday after losing radio contact with the base. Dozens of rescue workers were mobilized to locate the climbers, and one of them, Baljeet Kaur, was later rescued at 24,156 feet. Ms. Kaur was airlifted to base camp and then flown to a hospital in Kathmandu, where she was reported to be in stable condition, officials said.
The two women fought their families, survived beatings, put up with death threats and were forcibly separated before they could live together as a couple. Now, they are fighting for their right to get married in India.

It will give us legal proof, and I can show it to my parents, who are still opposed to our relationship, said Bhawna, who like her partner, Kajal, goes by one name.

On Tuesday, the couple, along with more than a dozen others, got their day in Indias Supreme Court, which began hearing arguments in a case to legalize same-sex marriage. In recent years, the court has held up individual freedoms, including striking down a ban on consensual gay sex, granting rights to Indias marginalized transgender community and declaring privacy as a constitutional right of all Indians.

It is unclear how long the court will take to reach a decision, but a ruling in favor of the petitioners would make India an outlier for gay rights in Asia, where most countries still outlaw same-sex marriage.
The Wall Street Journal reporter charged with espionage in Russia is expected to appear in a Moscow court on Tuesday for a hearing to appeal his pre-trial detention, a case that has brought relations between the United States and Russia to a new low.

The reporter, Evan Gershkovich, 31, was arrested by Russian security services in late March and formally charged with espionage. The Journal and the Biden administration vehemently deny the accusations and have called for his immediate release.

Mr. Gershkovich will appear in person in Moscow City Court, according to Zona Media, a Russian news website, citing the courts spokesman. The hearing is expected to take place behind closed doors.

The court could allow Mr. Gershkovich to be moved to house arrest, but such a step appeared to be extremely unlikely given the gravity of the charges against him. If convicted, Mr. Gershkovich faces up to 20 years in a Russian penal colony.
During the past year, Sergej Kozlov has been flagged by banks as a possible international terrorist on several occasions. The first time, he had been trying to find out why his salary was late. The second, he had been attempting to pay a dog groomer for giving his Great Dane a trim. And last month, it happened when he wanted to transfer money to a colleague.

At first, he was bewildered. Mr. Kozlov is a 40-year-old Russian-language teacher in the Lithuanian city of Kaunas. He has never had any dealings with terrorists.

But then Mr. Kozlov discovered there was another Sergej Kozlov, living some 1,000 miles away. That Mr. Kozlov, 59, is chair of the government of the so-called Luhansk Peoples Republic, a region in eastern Ukraine that Russia has illegally annexed. That Mr. Kozlov is under sanctions from the European Union, Australia, Britain, Canada and Ukraine.

Sharing the name (which can be spelled in different ways) has meant trouble for Mr. Kozlov, the teacher. It is hilarious and sad at the same time, he said.
BELFAST, Northern Ireland  Joe Kennedy III had the kind of arrival in Northern Ireland that any American diplomat would envy: disembarking Air Force One steps behind President Biden, his shock of red hair tousled by the breeze as Mr. Biden introduced him to a waiting Prime Minister Rishi Sunak of Britain.

The rest of his assignment is not likely to be as glamorous.

Mr. Kennedy, a 42-year-old former Democratic congressman from Massachusetts and a scion of the nations most famous Irish American political clan, is taking up the post of special envoy to Northern Ireland for economic affairs at a time when its politics are paralyzed by deeply rooted sectarian divides.

The dysfunction could complicate Mr. Kennedys mission to drum up American investment in the North. And his circumscribed job title will make it difficult for him even to weigh in on the impasse, which began last year when the territorys power-sharing government collapsed in a dispute over post-Brexit trade rules.

The observation was made to me: Focusing on prosperity is the wise thing to do so you dont get sucked into the politics, Mr. Kennedy said in an interview Tuesday. Thatll last one conversation, he added with a laugh.
KYIV, Ukraine  Russia is pounding the Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine ever more fiercely with aerial attacks and artillery strikes, but Ukrainian forces remain in control of the embattled city, the commander of Kyivs ground forces, Gen. Oleksandr Syrsky, said on Tuesday.

The Bakhmut sector remains the epicenter of the fighting, General Syrsky said on the Telegram messaging app, referring to broader fighting in the east of the country.

This is where the enemy is concentrating most of its efforts and is determined to take control of the city at any cost, he said. Currently, the enemy is increasing the activity of heavy artillery and the number of airstrikes, turning the city into ruins.

He also said that Moscow was attacking Bakhmut from several directions simultaneously.

Russian forces have steadily advanced on Bakhmut in months of bloody fighting, and Ukrainian troops are now defending a section of the western part of the city. The Russian Defense Ministry said on Monday that its assault troops had captured two more areas in the south and northwest of the city, although it was not possible to confirm the claim independently.
Evan Gershkovich, the Wall Street Journal reporter arrested in Russia on suspicion of espionage, declared his innocence in a Moscow courtroom on Tuesday after flashing a smile from a glass defendants cage. It was his first public appearance since his detention last month, a new escalation in President Vladimir V. Putins conflict with the West.

The judge, as expected, denied Mr. Gershkovichs appeal to lift his pretrial detention, leaving him in Russian custody. He was ordered back to Moscows Lefortovo prison, one of the most infamous detention centers in Russia, where inmates are held in isolation with only rare visits by lawyers.

The hearing was closed, but one of his lawyers, Maria Korchagina, told reporters that Mr. Gershkovich said he was ready to assert his right for free journalism and to defend himself.

Earlier on Tuesday, journalists were allowed into the courtroom where Mr. Gershkovich stood behind a pane of glass, with two masked officers in dark plainclothes to his right. Red handcuff marks were visible on his wrists. Dressed in jeans and a checkered shirt, Mr. Gershkovich blinked and nodded when one Russian reporter told him, Evan, hold on!
SourceCode Communications picks up femtech brand Elvie. SourceCode previously worked with the company in 2018 on the US launch of Elvie Pump, the worlds first silent, wearable breast pump. The agency will build an integrated communications plan, bolstered by creative campaign initiatives and designed to elevate thought leadership, accelerate customer awareness and drive business growth. Since their previous working engagement, Elvie has added such products to its lineup as Elvie Stride, a hands-free, hospital-grade performance electric breast pump; Elvie Curve and Elvie Catch. Beyond elevating the brand, were excited to have a partner who can help us break down barriers surrounding the important conversations on womens health today, said Elvie chief commercial officer Aoife Zakaras-Nally.

5W Public Relations lands Indie Media Beauty Group, a platform that supports beauty entrepreneurs. 5WPR will execute a comprehensive public relations program to support IBMGs Beauty Independent Dealmaker Summit, a May 22 and 23 event for industry professionals to expand their network and learn about the complexities of dealmaking, and Adit Live, an invitation-only event on May 24 and 25 that supports beauty brands deemed ready for retail success. From 2017 to 2019, 5W represented the former Indie Beauty Expo show (produced by IBMG until March 2020). We are excited to work again with 5W as a trusted partner to bring our vision to life, said IBMG founder Nader Naeymi-Rad.

Adfactors PR signs on as communications partner for Volkswagen Passenger Cars India, effective April 1. Adfactors will be tasked with providing media relations, corporate reputation, crisis communications, strategic communications, social impact and digital services for Volkswagen. The agency established its dedicated mobility practice in 2021 to offer public relations services across the automotive, aerospace, railways, roadways, maritime and inland waterways, and micro-mobility verticals. The auto industry is currently experiencing dynamic shifts and we are glad we can count on a proven and dependable partner like Adfactors PR to help us navigate this ever-changing environment, said Volkswagen Passenger Cars India head of marketing and PR, Abbey Thomas.
Canada has already transferred eight tanks to Ukraine as part of military assistance, according to the Facebook page of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Tuesday.

"The Leopard 2 tanks were loaded and transported by a CC-177 Globemaster III aircraft of the Royal Canadian Air Force as part of Operation Unifier ... The Armed Forces of Ukraine are grateful for Canada's support and assistance!" the report notes.

On April 14, it was reported that all eight Leopard 2 battle tanks promised by Canada for Ukraine were already in Poland. The first four of them arrived earlier, and Ukrainian tankers were trained on them.
This week all roads lead to Limerick for the semi-finals of the Con and Annie Kirby Memorial on Saturday night. The second most valuable stake in Ireland behind the Derby with 80k in prize money to the winner. This was the tenth running of the Kirby Memorial, once again, sponsored by Noreen and J.P. McManus in honour of Noreens parents who were steeped in greyhound culture. A superb crowd witnessed a magical racing with both heats being won by the same trainer. Around the tracks a number of valuable finals were run in Shelbourne, Cork, Galway and Tralee. Offaly dogs once again did us proud with plenty of quality winners.



Early Week Racing



First Offaly winner of the week was in Galway. On Thursday, in the first round of an S7 sprint sweepstake, Cappaneale Rocky was easily the fastest of the four heats for Birr owner Bill Pardy, in 19.08 (.05 slow) by eight lengths, at a well supported in the betting market 4/6 fav.



Three finals in Shelbourne on Thursday each worth 1.5k to the winners. In the This Runs Deep ON2 unraced stake Silver King (Droopys Sydney - Silver Penny) won in 29.02 by six lengths at 1/2 fav for Navan owners Noeline and Ollie Bray.



In the final of the Sporting Press Online Edition A5 stake, Bluejig Jane (Droopys Sydney - Blue Of Diamonds) won by a head in 29.30 at 3/1 with Mullingar trainer David Murray at the helm. Faypoint Amy (Fast Fit Alex - Faypoint Lisa) won the Talking Dogs A4 stake for Kevin OKane in 28.95 by nine Lengths at 6/4 fav. Two Offaly winners on the supporting card, both for Croghan trainer Gerry Merriman, in an A4 race Highview Honour stopped the clock in 29.08 by two lengths at even money fav and in an A3 grade Highview Coral won in 28.97 also by two lengths at 6/4 fav.



Friday Racing



Galway, in the final of the Connect Six A7 stake, the 2k first prize went to Athlone as Springwell Honey (Ballymac Bolger - Springwell Mouse) won for Gerard ODowd in 29.05 (10 slow) by one length at 2/1. This pups dam Springwell Mouse was also a stake winner having won the Bective Mullingar Derby worth 4K in January 2020 for the late Denis Hannon.



Kilkenny, in the quarter-finals of the Blackstone Kennels A2 stake, Bogger Dusty went fastest for the second week in a row for Liam Peacock in 28.92 (20 slow) by eight lengths at 4/5 fav.



Two finals of note in Tralee, firstly in the John and Mary Killeacle Dowling Memorial A1 570, Strideaway Lena (Magical Bale - Patterdale Lena) won the 2.2k purse for James OMahony in 30.56 by one length at 5/2. In the final of the Grandstand Restaurant ON2 unraced stake, Wasted Money (Good News - Vale Recruit) made it three wins from three starts in a super 28.39 by six lengths at 6/5 fav with the pot of 1.2k going to Kieran ODwyer.



In Shelbourne Park, in the final of the RCETS A3 stake, Ballymac Winx (Ballymac Kingdom - Ballymac Meena) brought the 1.75k first prize back to Kerry and her trainer Liam Dowling in 29.01 by a neck at 5/2.



Saturday Racing



The most valuable final of the week was in Curraheen Park in Cork. The Greyhound and Petworld Supersprint over the 330 yard trip, Class won out here as the best sprinter in Ireland at the moment Flashing Willow (Laughil Blake - Cabbage) showed his usual early pace to clear the field and win the 3.5k first prize, in 17.41 by three lengths at 4/6 fav, to bring his career earnings to over 14k in his seventeen wins for his trainer Pat Buckley.



Three Offaly winners in Mullingar, in the semi-finals of the This Runs Deep ON2 unraced stake, the first heat went to last week Tribune dog of the week winner Syrax for Edenderry owners Paul and Chloe Cronin in 30.37 by a head at 4/6 fav. The second semi went to Miss Chicky in 30.01 by two lengths at 2/5 fav for David Murray. The other two Offaly winners were both for Edenderry trainer David Hanlon, firstly, in an A5 contest Dew Claw won in 30.42 by three lengths at 4/5 fav and in an A4 grade Kilbride Fairy was first over the whitewash in 30.15 by a head at even money fav. All races in Mullingar were rated .80 slow.



At Headquarters, in the final of the Greyhound Racing Ireland A1 stake, Delirium Tremors (Ballymac Eske - Knockdrinna Miss) won in 29.00 by two lengths at 4/1 with the 2.5k pot going to Murt Leahy. In the semifinals of the Suncroft Festival Puppy Oaks, Easy Razzle won the first for John Linehan in 28.55 by five lengths at 5/4. The second semi went to Lets Go Bubbles for Owen Mckenna in 28.78 by one length at 2/1.



In Kilcohan Park, Waterford, in the first round of the Time Greyhound Nutrition Select Stakes AAO, won last year by Explosive Boy for Pat Guilfoyle. Three heats all closely contested, The Other Kobe won the first for Jennifer ODonnell in 28.52 by one length at 3/1. The second heat went to Burgess Rapid for J.J Fennelly and Shiela Spillane in 28.66 by two lengths at 4/1. The final heat went to last year Juvenile Classic winner in Tralee Wi Can Dream for Guilfoyle in 28.56 by six lengths at even money fav. Only two lengths separating all three winners so all to play for.



Con and Annie Kirby Memorial



The semif-inals of this year second most valuable stake in Ireland worth in total 150k in prize money took place in Limerick on Saturday. Two cracking heats with a major shock in the first with Gaytime Hugo having on his third career win for Graham Holland in 28.09 by three lengths at a huge 10/1 outsider. Holland also won the second heat as Clonbrien Treaty was first back in kennels in 28.15 by five lengths at 5/2. Some very fancied dogs exited the competition, however there is still a very strong field for Saturdays final. Of the six remaining Holland has three runners with one each for Guilfoyle, Michael ODonovan and Liam Peacock. Six different stud dogs have offspring in the final which is rare. All to play for next week to see where the 80k first prize will go.



Sunday Racing



Two Offaly winners at the Matinee meeting in Mullingar, both in A5 grades. Horseleap Pippy won for Sean McGuinness in 30.19 (50 slow) by a neck at 6/4 fav. Our final winner of the week was Beechgrove Lady for Ballycommon owner Peter Raine in 30.09 (50 slow) by one length also at 6/4 fav.



At the evening meeting in Clonmel, in the quarterfinals of the Sorley ODornan A4 Guys and Dolls stake, Whiteys Fullback set the bar high when winning his heat in 28.81 (10 slow) by five lengths at 5/4 fav for Waterford trainer Declan Byrne



Upcoming Events



Thursday, semi-finals of the S7 sprint stake in Galway. Friday, semifinals of the Blackstone Kennels A2 in Kilkenny. Saturday, Mullingar, final of the This Runs Deep unraced stake, Shelbourne, final of the Suncroft Festival Puppy Oaks, Waterford semifinals of the Open Select Stakes and in Limerick the big one, final of the Con and Annie Kirby Memorial stake. Sunday, semifinals of the Sorley ODornan Memorial in Clonmel.



Loads of top class action to look forward to.



Tribune Offaly dog of the week



Highview Coral gets the nod this week for winning an A3 race in Shelbourne on Thursday in a career best run of 28.97 by two lengths for Croghan trainer Gerry Merriman.



Offaly Winners



Eight Offaly winners this week. Congratulations to all involved in any small way.
Patients who had medical treatments abroad have had to face a fight to be reimbursed for the costs, the Omudsman for Public Services, Ger Deering said.

Speaking on RTE's Morning Ireland show, Mr Deering said they carried out a report into the matter, "because we were seeing a number of complaints coming through where a number of patients had gone abroad and had treatment done in good faith and where a mistake by somebody else had caused them to fall at the last hurdle, and finding themselves when they came back having borrowed money from family, credit unions or wherever, that they were unable to get the refund that they legitimately expected to get".

"In some instances where mistakes were made, they were not on the part of the patient at all, it was maybe where it was a doctor had made a mistake and it was unable to be corrected," Mr Deering said.

He said they were looking for a more reasonable approach. He said there were examples where the HSE wanted letters of referrals addressed to specific doctors, rather than EDs. There were also incidents where medical secretaries signed letters on behalf of doctors, which caused payments to be rejected, or where emailed correspondence was unsigned.

Mr Deering said there had been too rigid a response to these instances.

He said the delays in payment "have a very significant impact".

"The first thing to acknowledge is that nobody wants to go abroad for treatment. People want to get the treatment as near to home. Anybody who has had treatment, or has been ill or has had surgery, they know the recovery period isn't easy... These people are doing this because they know they can't get the treatment here

"You have the pain and the surgery. Then you have the stress that goes with that. And now you could find yourself in debt as a result. In some instances people have to pay back money borrowed from family members who could ill afford to be without it," Mr Deering said.

He said the HSE is committed to providing more information to people, upfront. "I would encourage people to use these schemes. They are very good schemes and over 5,000 people a year manage to successfully use them," Mr Deering said.

He encourage people to inform themselves, adding that the approach of the HSE will make it easier for people.
Fact Check: Is this man criticising CM Yogi for the killing of Atiq Ahmed

Fact Check: Clip of BJP poll van being vandalised is not from Karnataka

Fact Check: Are Indians burning down 5G towers?

Fact Check

oi-Vicky Nanjappa

A video of a mobile tower engulfed in flames has gone viral on the social media, with the claim that people had set fire to the 5G tower.

While sharing the image, one user wrote on Twitter, "in ndia people are burning 5G towers."

A reverse search of the keyframes from the viral video led us to a similar video which was posted on YouTube in January 2018. This is almost five years before the launch of 5G in India. As per the video the incident took place in Barara, Ambala.

Fact Check: Did a sea of humanity descend on Asad Ahmeds funeral

It must be noted here that 5G technology was not available in India in January 2018.

In February 2018, it was reported that telecom major Bharti Airtel and tech giant, Huawei had announced that they had successfully conducted the first 5G trial in India. The test site was Airtel's Experience Centre in Manesar, Gurugram.

Four years later, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the service on October 10 2022 in India, which marked the adoption of 5G technology.

Fact Check: Is this the image of Asad who was killed in UP encounter?

The same clip that has gone viral was also sScreenshot 2023-04-18 at 10.08.17 AM.pnghared in 2019. At that time of sharing it was claimed that a 5G tower in Gujarat had been burnt down.

While the details of the exact incident are not clear, we can concluded that the tower that was burnt down was not a 5G tower. The video is from 2018, which we could confirm and in that year 5G had not been launched in India as yet.

Fact Check Claim People in India set ablaze 5G tower Conclusion The video is from 2018 and 5G had not been launched in India then Rating False Raise your request for FACT CHECKING. Mail us at [email protected]

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Story first published: Tuesday, April 18, 2023, 10:25 [IST]
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Dmytro Kuleba, who is on an official visit to Kuwait, held talks with the head of the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, Waleed Al-Bahar, on projects to restore Ukraine.

"In Kuwait, I met with Waleed Al-Bahar, Acting Director of the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, to invite Kuwait to take part in the reconstruction of Ukraine. We discussed social and humanitarian projects, particularly school and hospital construction," Kuleba said on Twitter.

According to the press service of the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry, Waleed Al-Bahar said that his foundation is ready to participate in the Ukraine International Recovery Conference, which will be held in London at the end of June. He also stressed that interaction with Ukraine would become one of the priorities of the fund.

The interlocutors paid special attention to social projects, in particular the construction of new hospitals, schools and kindergartens in Ukraine, as well as the implementation of psychological support and rehabilitation programs for Ukrainians who suffered during the war.

The minister and the head of the fund agreed to organize a meeting of experts from Ukraine and Kuwait in the near future to discuss in detail the prospects for cooperation.

As Kuleba noted, "in the general perspective of post-war reconstruction, Ukraine is likely to become the largest construction site in the world."

The Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development is a public financial institution in Kuwait, involved in development projects in 105 countries for a total of $21.8 billion.
Why has Nepal become a safe haven for terrorists and criminals

Indian mountaineer Baljeet Kaur rescued from Mt. Annapurna

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

Baljeet Kaur, a 27-year-old leading Indian woman mountaineer, who went missing near Camp IV of Mt Annapurna while descending from the summit point has been found alive, an official of the expedition organiser said on Tuesday.

According to reports, an aerial search team located Kaur, who scaled the world's tenth-highest peak without using supplemental oxygen yesterday.

Pasang Sherpa, chairman of Pioneer Adventure, said that Kaur went missing above Camp IV while descending from the top as she scaled the peak without using supplemental oxygen. ''She has suffered from frostbite and is now being rushed to CIWEC Hospital from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu," he was quoted as saying by the Himalayan Times newspaper.

In May last year, Baljeet Kaur, from Himachal Pradesh scaled Mt Lhotse and became the first Indian climber to have climbed four 8000-meter peaks in a single season. Her recent successful ascent of Mt Annapurna further solidifies her reputation as a skilled and accomplished climber.

34-year-old Indian climber goes missing at Nepal's Mt Annapurna

Mount Annapurna 1



Comfort zone

Camp-2



(High altitude) pic.twitter.com/g3TuJqKs2i  Baljeet kaur (@Baljeet11684140) April 9, 2023

According to Mingma Sherpa, chairman at Seven Summit Treks, Noel Hanna, the first person from Ireland to reach the summit of K2 during the winter season, breathed his last in Camp IV last night. Efforts are underway to bring their bodies back to base camp, organisers said.

Earlier on Monday, it was reported that 34-year-old Anurag Maloo, a resident of Kishangadh in Rajasthan, went missing while descending from Camp III of Annapurna Mountain in Nepal.

Speaking to news agency ANI, Mingma Sherpa, Seven Summit Treks said that the search operation is on. ''Later, it was found that Maloo fell from 6000m into a crevasse while descending from Camp IV on Monday. 5 climbers have been airlifted to Kathmandu from Mount Annapurna,'' he said.

For the unversed, Mt. Annapurna is the tenth-highest mountain in the world, standing at 8,091 metres above sea level.

It is well known for the difficulty and danger involved in its ascent.
31 tribals from Karnataka stranded in Sudan

India

oi-Deepika S

At least 31 tribals from Karnataka are in Sudanese city of El-Fasher amidst an internecine war between the military and a powerful paramilitary force in the African country that has already claimed 185 lives.

The stranded people belong to the Hakki Pikki tribe, a semi-nomadic tribal group, of Karnataka and are starving without food and water since the clashes began this weekend.

The Karnataka State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has apprised the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) about it and is also in touch with the Indian Embassy in Sudan to speed up their rescue process.

Sudan violence: Death toll up to 200, around 1,800 wounded

"We have got a message that a group of 31 persons hailing from Karnataka are stranded in Sudan. We have informed MEA of this. We have asked the group to follow the instructions of the Indian embassy in Sudan. As of now, the stranded people should stay wherever they are and not venture out. MEA is seized of the matter and is working on it," Dr Manoj Rajan, Commissioner, KSDMA, was quoted saying by NDTV.

Meanwhile, Congress seems to be trying to take political mileage out it by politicising the issue with an eye on the next month's Assembly polls. Party's chief ministerial hopeful Siddaramaiah has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Ministry and the MEA to intervene and rescue the stranded people.

Siddaramaiah tweeted: "It is reported that 31 people from Karnataka belonging to Hakki Pikki tribe, are stranded in Sudan which is troubled by civil war. I urge @PMOIndia @narendramodi, @HMOIndia, @MEAIndia and @BSBommai to immediately intervene & ensure their safe return."

It is reported that 31 people from Karnataka belonging to Hakki Pikki tribe, are stranded in Sudan which is troubled by civil war.



I urge @PMOIndia @narendramodi, @HMOIndia, @MEAIndia and @BSBommai to immediately intervene & ensure their safe return.  Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) April 18, 2023

"Hakki Pikkis in Sudan are left stranded without food since the last few days & the govt is yet to initiate action to bring them back. @BJP4India govt should immediately open diplomatic discussions & reach out to international agencies to ensure the well-being of Hakki Pikkis," he added.

Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala went way ahead and took the opportunity to hit out at the Centre and the Karnataka government, alleging that they have left the tribals "to their fate". "31 Kannadigas of Hakki Pikki Tribe have been left stranded in the civil war in Sudan. The Anti-Kannadiga Modi Govt has left them to their fate, instead of evacuating & ensuring their safe return. Where are Mr. Prahlad Joshi & Shobha Karandlaje & BJP MP's? Shame on you Mr Bommai," he tweeted.

Sudan unrest: India sets up control room, issues fresh advisory

Explosion and clashes continue to rock Sudan against the backdrop of escalating tension between the Sudanese Army and the powerful Rapid Support Forces (RSF) paramilitary group. As per the UN envoy Volker Perthes, 185 people have been killed and over 1,800 wounded since the fighting erupted.
Why 2024, NCP can stake claim to Maharashtra CM post now also, says Ajit Pawar

Ajit Pawar has backing of 40 MLAs, is a split within the NCP imminent

India

oi-Vicky Nanjappa

The developments in Maharashtra are hotting up with claims that 40 MLAs are backing Ajit Pawar, the nephew of NCP supremo Sharad Pawar.

The senior Pawar has however dismissed his nephew's next political move. There is intense speculation in Maharashtra that Ajit Pawar is meeting with MLAs and also about his growing proximity with the BJP.

"There is no importance of the discussions. The reports have no meaning. I can say about the NCP that all our colleagues are of one thinking and that is how to make the party stronger. There is no other thought in anyone's mind about it, Sharad Pawar told reporters.

Is Ajit Pawar joining BJP? Here's what Sharad Pawar has to say

Report had earlier said that Ajit Pawar was making efforts to become Eknath Shinde's successor as chief minister, with an alliance with the BJP. It was also reported that Pawar was collecting consent signatures from his lawmakers in the party.

"Around 40 of the 53 NCP MLAs have given their consent signatures far. The list will be presented to the Governor when the time comes," said an Indian Express report.

The report also said that Ajit Pawar was personally calling up the NCP MLAs, but added that Sharad Pawar did not make any counter move as yet.

In 2019, after Ajit Pawar briefly formed the government with the BJP, Sharad Pawar was in over-drive mode and called his MLAs and pacified them to stay back.

Meanwhile two MLAs, Anna Bansode and Manikrao Kokate have said that they would remain loyal to Ajit Pawar. Bansode told news channel TV9 Marathi that he has extended his full support to Ajit Pawar. I am still loyal to him and will stand by him in whatever decision he may take.

'I am with NCP': Ajit Pawar dismisses reports linking him to BJP

The Maha Vikas Agdhadi (MVA) which comprised the NCP, Shiv Sena (UBT) and Congress has rejected reports of an NCP meet being called in Mumbai. None have called for such a meeting, the MVA said while adding Ajit Pawar is busy with some election world.

"These are baseless rumours. I spoke with Ajit Pawar and other NCP leaders this morning. If those spreading rumours think they can weaken the MVA by resorting to such ploys, then they are mistaken, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and Rajya Sabha MP, Sanjay Raut said.
Atiq killers were inspired by Lawrence Bishnoi's interviews

India

oi-Prakash KL

The killers of Atiq Ahmed have revealed during the investigation that they took inspiration from jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, NDTV reported citing sources.

One of the three assailants Sunny Singh hatched the plan to murder Atiq Ahmed after getting heavily inspired by Bishnoi's interviews. The latter's communally charged comments influenced the former and that made him plan for a "big kill" similar to the murder of musician Sidhu Moose Wala, the report added.

Sunny Singh convinced other two killers identified as Lovelesh Tiwari and Arun Maurya to join him to eliminate Atiq, sources further told the website. They have told the cops that they wanted to make a name for themselves and establish their identity in the State by eliminating Atiq Ahmad's gang, according to the FIR.

Gangster-turned-politician Atiq Ahmed and his brother Ashraf were shot dead at point-blank range by the three who posed as journalists in the middle of a media interaction on Saturday night. The incident occurred when police personnel were escorting them to a medical college in Prayagraj for a check-up.

Atiq Ahmeds killer may have had links with Sundar Bhati gang

Posing as journalists, the three killers were trying to get sound bites from the two gangsters. The men suddenly dropped their camera and fired at the gangster and his brother. They reportedly shouted 'Jai Shri Ram' as they killed the brothers, who were later buried at Kasari Masari graveyard in Prayagraj on Sunday evening.

Meanwhile, the UP Government has formed a three-member judicial commission to inquire into the killings and a Prayagraj court has sent the accused to 14 days' judicial custody. They were initially housed in Prayagraj's Naini Jail and later shifted to Pratapgarh Jail on Monday due to security issues.

With inputs from agency

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Story first published: Tuesday, April 18, 2023, 10:52 [IST]
Chhattisgarh: Congress MLA Vikram Mandavi narrowly escapes Naxal attack in Bijapur

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

Chhattisgarh Congress MLA Vikram Mandavi had a narrow escape after his convoy was attacked by Naxals near Padeda village in Bijapur district. The incident took place when the Congress MLA was returning from a public meeting.

Naxalites also fired at the vehicle of district panchayat member Parvati Kashyap, who was a part of the MLA's convoy.

However, there was no casualty reported and all the people who were part of the convoy are said to be safe. A large number of police personnel have been deployed in the area and searches are being conducted.

In November 2022, security forces killed four Naxals during a day-long encounter in the Bijapur district.

After receiving specific input on the presence of at least 50 Naxals in the area, a joint team of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Special Task Force (STF) and the DRG initiated a combat operation.

Of 4, two Naxals were women and a large cache of arms and ammunition was recovered from them.

"The Naxals had gathered to plan an attack on works in the area," India Today quoted Bastar's Inspector General of Police P Sundarraj as saying.
Clashes between Christians at Kerala Church after one side refuses to adhere to Popes instruction

IS group says it killed more than 35 'Christians' in Congo

Christians are safe under Modi govt: Barla after meeting Church leader

India

oi-Prakash KL

Christians are "safe" in all over the country after Narendra Modi became the Prime Minister of India, Union minister of state for minority affairs John Barla on Tuesday said after meeting Syro-Malabar Church major archbishop Mar George Alencherry in Kochi.

"The meeting with the Bishop was fruitful. There are many things to do for the betterment of the Christian people. I know that, after 2014, Christian people are safe in Modi Government in Kerala and all over India. After 2014, not any disturbance in any area," ANI quoted Barla as saying.

He then claimed that Christians are not aware of many central government schemes. "We have to work together. There are many things to do. They (Christians) are not aware of many central government schemes," Barla added.

Barla is in Kerala on a three-day visit to meet Christian leaders.

Figures on attacks on Christians wrong: Centre to Supreme Court

He termed the meeting with the Bishop very fruitful. The meeting was a part of the BJP-led Central government's outreach programme in the state. Kerala Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) vice president AN Radhakrishnan accompanied MoS John Barla.

He had also visited the St Euphrasia Shrine and Museum and spent some time in prayer for the people of our nation. "It was a joy to interact with the fathers and sisters of the church, who shared their wisdom and insights with me. Such a meaningful and inspiring experience!" he tweeted. He visited the historic ST Thomas Church Malayatoor in Ernakulum on Monday.

"Visited the historic St. Thomas Church Malayatoor in Ernakulum today and had an amazing breakfast with the priest of the church! Got to hear their grievances and proposals for new projects. Even interacted with some media persons," Barla tweeted on Monday.

Barla interacted with Christian leaders at Divine Retreat Centre in Chalakuddi later on Monday. "Had a great opportunity to interact with fathers, brothers, & Christian leaders at Divine Retreat Centre in Chalakuddi, Kerala. It was a pleasure to share with them the latest initiatives and schemes of the central government," he tweeted.

This visit comes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Sacred Heart Cathedral Church on the occasion of Easter, earlier this month.

The Prime Minister planted a tree on the premises. After the visit, he tweeted, "Today, on the very special occasion of Easter, I had the opportunity to visit the Sacred Heart Cathedral in Delhi. I also met spiritual leaders from the Christian community."

Christians not engaged in converting people, says Union minister Barla

He lit a candle before the statue of Jesus Christ in the cathedral.

"Happy Easter! May this special occasion deepen the spirit of harmony in our society. May it inspire people to serve society and help empower the downtrodden. We remember the pious thoughts of Lord Christ on this day," the Prime Minister tweeted earlier in the day.

With inputs from agencies
Your prerogative: SC to Centre on legalisation of same-sex marriage

India

oi-Vicky Nanjappa

A five-judge Bench of the Supreme Court has sought to know the canvas of the petitioner's case seeking legalisation of same-sex marriage.

The Centre told the Supreme Court that since marriage is included in concurrent list of Constitution, States must be heard to decide whether legislature or court is the forum to decide the issue.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta insisted to the court that it should first decide on the preliminary objections. The court said that it would decide on what manner the proceedings would be conducted. Mehta replied by saying that if the Supreme Court is not deciding the preliminary first, then he would have take instructions on the level of the Centre's participation in the proceedings.

To this the Bench said that it is prerogative of the Centre to take part in the proceedings or now and no one forcing it to participate. The court then went on to proceed to hear the petitioners' counsel Mukul Rohatgi, who said that the same-sex couples want respectability in society by getting the right to marry.

At least 15 petitions on the issue were referred to a larger Bench comprising Chief Justice of India, D Y Chandrachud.

The other judges on the Bench are Justices S K Kaul, S Ravindra Bhat, PS Narasimha, and Hima Kohli. The Centre has termed the petitions as merely reflecting an 'urban elitist view.'

There has been a greater demand for legalising same-sex marriages, following the decriminalisation of Section 370 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) in 2018.

The petitions have been supported by the Delhi Commission for Protection of Child Rights. It has said that same-sex family units are normal and that the government should intervene and take steps to encourage the same. "Multiple studies have argued that same-sex couples can be good parents...there are over 50 countries that allow same-sex couples to legally adopt children, the child rights body argued.

The petitioners have in their plea sought wider constitutional entitlements based on the right to life and personal liberty, the right to dignity, and other related rights.

The Indian Psychiatric Society too had come out in support of same-sex family units. It argued that it would promote their inclusion in society. The medical body also argued that homosexuality is not an illness.

"There are variants of normal sexuality, not deviant, and certainly not an illness. LGBTQI+ spectrum should enjoy all civil rights like education, employment, housing, income, government or military service, access to health care, property rights, marriage, adoption and survivorship benefits to name a few any form of discrimination on these rights leads to mental health issues," the medical body said.

The Centre on the other hand said, "the institution of marriage is necessarily a social concept and a sanctity to the said institution is attached under the respective governing laws and customs as it is given sanctity by law on the basis of social acceptance. It is submitted that social acceptance and adherence to societal ethos, common values, shared beliefs across religions, in case of recognition of "socio-legal institution of marriage" is not be confused with majoritarianism."

Organisations such as the RSS, Jamiat Ulama-i-HInd have opposed the validity of same-sex marriages. The Hindu organisations have said that the aim of marriage among the Hindus is not merely physical pleasure or procreation, but spiritual advancement.
Dont do politics': Jaishankar slams Siddaramaiah over Sudan tweet

India

oi-Deepika S

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar slammed senior Congress leader Siddaramaiah for his remarks over 31 tribals from Karnataka who are stuck in crisis-hit Sudan.

"Simply appalled at your tweet! There are lives at stake; don't do politics. Since the fighting started on April 14th, the Embassy of India in Khartoum has been continuously in touch with most Indian Nationals and PIOs in Sudan", the union minister tweeted.

Simply appalled at your tweet! There are lives at stake; dont do politics.



Since the fighting started on April 14th, the Embassy of India in Khartoum has been continuously in touch with most Indian Nationals and PIOs in Sudan. https://t.co/MawnIwStQp  Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) April 18, 2023

"Their details and locations cannot be made public for security reasons. Their movement is constrained by fierce fighting that is ongoing. Plans regarding them have to take into account a very complicated security scenario. The Embassy is in constant touch with the Ministry in that regard", Jaishankar added.

"It is grossly irresponsible of you to politicize their situation. No electoral goal justifies endangering Indians abroad", the minister further said.

Earlier, in a series of tweets, former Karnataka CM Siddaramiah had alleged government inaction in bringing back the stranded people belonging to a tribal community in the southern state.

"Hakki Pikkis in Sudan are left stranded without food since the last few days & the govt is yet to initiate action to bring them back. @BJP4India govt should immediately open diplomatic discussions & reach out to international agencies to ensure the well-being of Hakki Pikkis", the Congress leader added.

"It is also unfortunate to know that we have lost one Indian & 60 others in the ongoing civil war in Sudan. My deepest condolences to their families and pray for the peace in the region", he added.

Sudan is in turmoil as fighting has raged between Sudanese army and rival paramilitary force RSF with Indian Embassy asking Indians to stay indoors.

"We have come across many instances of looting. All Indian nationals are advised please not to venture out. Please ration your supplies. The situation may continue for a few more days. Please try to take help from your neighbours. Please stay at home and remain safe," tweeted the Embassy of India in Khartoum.

At least 200 people have been killed and over 1,800 wounded since the fighting between Sudan's two top generals erupted.

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Story first published: Tuesday, April 18, 2023, 21:35 [IST]
ED attaches Cong MP Karti Chidamabaram's Rs 11-crore properties

India

pti-PTI

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Tuesday attached properties to the tune of Rs 11.04 crore belonging to Congress MP Karti Chidambaram in the INX money laundering case, an official statement said.

The ED said that out of four attached properties, one is an immovable asset located in Coorg district of Karnataka.

The ED issued a provisional order, under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), for attaching the assets worth Rs 11.04 crore. Karti Chidambaram, 51, is the son of former Union minister and senior Congress leader P Chidambaram and is a sitting Congress MP from Sivaganga Lok Sabha seat in Tamil Nadu. He was arrested in the INX case by the ED as well as the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

Karnataka Congress leader D K Shivakumar asked to appear before Enforcement Directorate

The ED had filed a criminal case under the PMLA in 2017 to probe alleged irregularities in the grant of FIPB approval to INX Media group. INX Media got its FIPB (foreign investment promotion board) approvals in 2007-08 when P Chidambaram was serving as the Union finance minister in the UPA government. It is alleged that this approval was not legal and agencies have charged P Chidambaram with committing corruption and money laundering by taking kickbacks from the promoters of the media group, Indrani and Peter Mukerjea, through his son Karti.

The FIPB was scrapped by the Modi government in 2017. It was found, the ED said, that "illegal gratification (proceeds of crime) was received directly and indirectly from M/s INX Media Pvt. Ltd., to which accused P Chidambaram had granted FIPB approval, through several shell companies controlled/beneficially owned/used by another accused Karti P Chidambaram."

"Illegal gratification was received in the company of the accused in the name of providing consultancy by the entities from INX Media," it said.

The agency alleged that the total proceeds of crime laundered over a period of time in this case are Rs 65.88 crore. "The money was routed to overseas accounts and investment was made in various overseas properties and shares of companies through various shell companies directly or indirectly controlled by Karti P Chidambaram and through his confidants," it alleged.

The ED had filed a charge sheet in this case in 2021 in which it said that emails were recovered from seized digital devices that disclose Karti used to consult his father regarding matters related to a company -Advantage Strategic Consulting Pvt Ltd (ASCPL) - "beneficially owned" by him in the past and involved in this case.
Are you hit by the heatwave: Here are 8 things you should do

Heatstroke at Maharashtra ceremony: 13 dead, 32 discharged

India

oi-Prakash KL

The death toll at the Maharashtra Bhushan award event on Sunday due to heat stroke has climbed to 13.

However, 12 people are still undergoing treatment at various hospitals and 35 were discharged on Monday, Raigad district informed on Monday.

The deceased were identified as Tulshiram Bhau Wagad, Jayshree Jagannath Patil, Mahesh Narayan Gaykar, Kalawati Siddram Vaychal, Manjusha Krishna Bhombde, Bhima Krishna Salvi, Savita Sanjay Pawar, Swapnil Sadashiv Keni, Pushpa Madan Gaykar, Vandana Jagannath Patil, Meenakshi Mohan Mistry, Gulab Baban Patil and Vinayak Haldankar, ANI reported.

The event was held in Navi Mumbai to present the Maharashtra Bhushan Award to social activist Dattatreya Narayan alias Appasaheb Dharmadhikari who was honoured with the award by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. The event started at 11.30 pm and ended at 1 pm, according to a report.

11 die of heatstroke at Maharashtra Bhushan Award ceremony

A total of 123 people complained of heat-related health ailments, like dehydration during the event. They were immediately referred to the 30 medical booths set up at the venue. Thirteen of the patients, who needed further treatment, were shifted to different private hospitals.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Shinde announced Rs 5 lakh as compensation for the next-of-kin of the deceased, and the entire medical expense is being borne by the state government.

"Families of the victims will be given Rs 5 lakh each and we are ensuring proper treatment for those admitted in hospitals," Shinde said.

However, the opposition parties have slammed the Eknath Shinde government over the incident, saying that the award ceremony could have been planned better.

"We met the people who are undergoing treatment. I interacted with four to five patients. Two of them are in critical condition. The event was not planned properly. Who will investigate this incident?" Uddhav Thackeray said.

No relief in sight as heat wave to persist in east India during next 4 days

Criticising the Maharashtra government, Congress spokesperson Kanhaiya Kumar said, "We express condolences to the affected families and demand that the government take responsibility for it and take action in the matter."

He alleged that the government was giving crores of rupees to contractors to organise the event and did not arrange tents, shade, water and air conditioning for people. "The government is only concerned with photo opportunities. Our Congress unit has already stated that this is a matter of culpable homicide," Kumar said.

With inputs from agencies
On Tuesday, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited the advanced positions of Ukrainian defenders in Avdiyivka (Donetsk region).

The Head of State listened to the report of the commander of Donetsk operational-tactical group regarding the situation in the area of his responsibility. Zelenskyy talked with the servicemen of the marines, airborne assault, mechanized and artillery units and thanked them for their service, the press service of the Presidents Office of Ukraine reported.

"I have the honor to be here today, to thank you for your service, for defending our land, Ukraine, our families. Congratulations on the holidays, on Easter, I wish you only victory - this is what I wish for every Ukrainian, this is what is very important to all of us. I wish good health to all of you and your families, and I am sincerely grateful on behalf of every Ukrainian for the great path that you overcome every day," he said.

The memory of the fallen defenders was honored with a moment of silence. The President presented the servicemen with state awards. The defenders received the Orders of Bohdan Khmelnytsky of the II and III degrees, as well as the Orders For Courage of the II and III degrees. The military presented the Head of State with a military coin, a chevron and a plaque with the symbols of the 110th separate mechanized brigade, the message reads.
SC to hear on April 28 plea for independent probe into Atiq killing

UP Board Results 2023: Class 10, 12 exam results to be out tomorrow

'Mafia who had a free run in 2017 are now begging for life': UP CM

Hunt for slain gangster Atiq Ahmeds sister Ayesha Noori intensifies

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

Uttar Pradesh police have shifted their focus to tracing slain gangster-turned-politician Atiq Ahmed's sister, Ayesha Noori, an accused in the Umesh Pal murder case.

Ayesha, is also on the run along with her mother after the police added their names to the list of accused on April 9 on charges of providing shelter and financial help to the men involved in Umesh Pal's murder.

Uttar Pradesh | Police personnel conduct searches at the residence of sister of slain mafia-turned-politician Atiq Ahmed in Mariadih village in Prayagraj. pic.twitter.com/3oUJ6S8tOC  ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) April 18, 2023

According to reports, Ayesha is one of the four sisters of slain gangster Atiq Ahmed. Her husband Dr Akhlaq Ahmed, a Merrut-based government doctor, was arrested by the special task force (STF) on April 2 fromhis residence.

Ayesha came to limelight when she followed the cavalcade of police carrying late gangster Atiq from Sabarmati jail of Gujarat to Prayagraj.

Atiq Ahmad's mystery letter to Yogi Adityanath & CJI Chandrachud

Atiq Ahmed (60) and his brother Ashraf were shot dead from point-blank range by three men posing as journalists on Saturday night while police personnel were escorting the brothers to a hospital in Prayagraj for a medical-checkup.

The brothers were in handcuffs when they were killed in full view of camera crews. The horrifying visuals were circulated widely on social media platforms and television channels.

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to probe the killings, even as the three assailants who shot the two brothers were shifted from the Prayagraj Central Prison to a Pratapgarh jail on Monday.

The shifting of the shooters to the Pratapgarh District Jail was done on administrative grounds, officials told PTI.

The three assailants - Lavlesh Tiwari (22) of Banda, Mohit alias Sunny (23) of Hamirpur and Arun Maurya (18) of Kasganj - who cops say wanted to make a name for themselves by eliminating Ahmed's gang, were sent to judicial custody for 14 days after they were produced in court over the weekend.
Is Ajit Pawar joining BJP? Here's what Sharad Pawar has to say

India

oi-Deepika S

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar on Tuesday refuted the speculations about his nephew and senior party leader Ajit Pawar joining the ruling BJP.

"Whatever discussions going on in the public is created by media. We do not have anything in our minds," the NCP chief claimed while speaking to reporters.

"There is no truth to all these discussions. The reports are baseless. I can say that my NCP colleagues are together and our focus is only on making the party stronger, and there is no other thought in anybody's mind," he said.

Sharad Pawar, whose party is an ally of the Maha Vikas Aghadi in Maharashtra, also rejected reports of a meeting of NCP MLAs being called in Mumbai. "Ajit Pawar and Jayant Patil are busy with a local election in their regions, providing guidance to everyone. They are with us. No such meeting has been called," he said.

Aji Pawar's move to cancel his scheduled meeting on April 8 as well as his comments which were seen as going soft on the BJP and Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's camp, revived the talks of the NCP leader contemplating to join BJP.

'I am with NCP': Ajit Pawar dismisses reports linking him to BJP

The 63-year-old leader, who was Deputy Chief Minister, is currently the Leader of Opposition in the Maharashtra Assembly. In one of the most dramatic incidents in Maharashtra politics, Ajit Pawar went missing only to reappear alongside BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis at Raj Bhavan in 2019.

In a hastily organised ceremony, Ajit took oath as Deputy CM with Fadnavis as the Chief Minister. However, the government fell within days as it could not muster enough numbers to attain majority.

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Tuesday, April 18, 2023, 14:48 [IST]
Karnataka polls: This is how Cong has outlined its caste equations

Cong to secure sound win in Karnataka polls, predicts pre-poll survey

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

With barely four weeks left for polling day, a pre-poll survey conducted by 'Lok Poll' has predicted that the Congress is all set to secure a handsome victory in the upcoming Karnataka assembly election 2023. The survey indicates that Congress had improved its position from similar survey made in the month of February and BJP has gone down further in numbers.

The opinion poll by 'Lok Poll', based on survey of over 65,000 respondents across various districts of the state, predicted that the Congress will win 128-131 seats with a vote share of 42-45 per cent. The BJP is expected to get 66-69 seats with vote share of 30-33 per cent while JDS is predicted to get 21-25 seats with vote share of 15-18 per cent and others might get 1-4 seats with vote share of 6-9 per cent.

Karnataka mega survey:



After our extended survey till the end of March, we present you the updated numbers for #Karnatakaelections2023.



Projected seats:

BJP 66 - 69

INC 128 - 131

JD(S) 21 - 25

Oth 0 - 2



Sample size: 65,000 pic.twitter.com/NqdCPGTe2z  Lok Poll (@LokPoll) April 17, 2023

According to the pre-poll survey, BJP's tally will be powered by a good performance in Kittur Karnataka region and sustaining its domination in coastal Karnataka though the party is expected to suffer significant reverses in Central Karnataka that it swept in 2018 state assembly elections.

Karnataka polls 2023: BJP releases 3rd list of candidates, SA Ramadas denied ticket

Our comprehensive ground survey in #Karnataka has allowed us to project zone-wise data up until the last week of March.



We will release the details pertaining to each zone starting tomorrow, followed by the opinion of different cohorts.



Stay tuned!#KarnatakaElections2023 pic.twitter.com/xB01CFDSbJ  Lok Poll (@LokPoll) April 17, 2023

In the Kittur Karnataka region, the BJP is expected to maintain its strong presence with 21-23 seats, Congress 26-28 and JDS 0-1.

In the Kalyana Karnataka region too, Congress is predicted to get a maximum number of seats of 27-30. BJP is expected to get 8-11, JDS 0-2 and others 0-2.

In Bengaluru, Congress is expected to get 22-24, BJP 9-11 and JDS 1-4.

In coastal Karnataka, the ruling BJP is expected to put up a good show with 14-16 seats, Congress 8-10 and JDS 0-1.

In central Karnataka, BJP is expected to get 10-12 seats, Congress 9-11 and JDS 0-1.

In Old Mysuru region, the Lok Poll opinion poll predicted BJP is likely to make inroads and is expected to get 9-11 seats while the Congress is predicted to get a maximum of 27-30 seats and JDS might get 20-22 seats. In 2018 Assembly polls, the JD(S) had bagged as many as 27 seats in region, while the Congress and BJP won 17 and 11 seats, respectively.
Karnataka polls: Jagadish Shettar figures in Congress' 4th list

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

The Congress party on Tuesday released its fourth list of 7 candidates for the upcoming Karnataka assembly elections 2023. The party has fielded Jagadish Shettar, former Karnataka CM from Hubli-Dharwad-Central constituency.

After being denied a ticket by the BJP, Shettar had recently joined the Congress. Meanwhile, the BJP gave ticket to its state general secretary (organisation) Mahesh Tenginkai for the same seat. BJP's Arun Singh had said that Tenginkai is also a Lingayat like Shettar and belongs to the same subcaste as the former chief minister.

The impact of Shettar quitting BJP and joining Congress

In another decision, the party fielded Mohammed Yousuf Savanur from the Shiggaon assembly seat, from where Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai is the BJP candidate. Bommai represents the Shiggaon constituency in the outgoing assembly.

HD Thammaiah, another Lingayat leader was fielded from Chikkamagaluru. The Lingayat leader was said to be a close aide to BJP heavyweight leader and national general secretary CT Ravi. However, he stepped down from the party and joined the Congress party last month.

The Congress is yet to announce candidates for eight remaining seats. The party has so far announced its candidates for 216 out of 224 assembly constituencies in the state.

In its first list, the Grand Old party named 124 candidates, refielding 60 of 69 sitting MLAs. The second list had names of 42 candidates, including some who had jumped ship from the BJP and JD(S) ahead of the polls.

The Karnataka Legislative Assembly will go to polls on May 10, and counting will be held on May 13. The Congress is seeking to oust the BJP from power in the southern state.

#KarnatakaElections2023 | Congress releases another list of 7 candidates for the upcoming election.



Jagadish Shettar to contest from Hubli-Dharwad-Central. pic.twitter.com/IrtDX5yx44  ANI (@ANI) April 18, 2023
Whoever wins in Sringeri, will win Karnataka: Just a belief or voters' ability to understand the trend?

Karnataka polls: Why are parties vying for votes of autowallahs?

India

oi-Prakash KL

Political parties in Karnataka are leaving no stone unturned to woo the voters. This time, they are going an extra mile as they are attempting to win the hearts of the auto-rickshaw drivers, among others.

Why they make a good vote bank?

Karnataka has around 7.7 lakh registered autorickshaws as of mid-February, out of which 6 lakh vehicles are still operational, according to a report in Times of India. In Bengaluru alone, there are some 3 lakh registered autorickshaws while 2.2 lakh of them are operational in the city.

It also means there are 8 lakh voters from this community in Karnataka and 4.5 lakh of them are in Bengaluru alone. This makes them a large chunk of voters and the fact has caught the attention of the political parties who are all out to woo this community.

Karnataka poll: Why the swing & undecided voter could decide outcome

B.V. Raghavendra, who heads the Federation of Karnataka Autorickshaw Driver Unions, reasons out: "When you add families and other dependents such as painters, mechanics and tinkering work personnel, the number is much higher. Political parties are showing interest in us because we are in the spotlight. We have been protesting the government's transport policies and bike taxis."

Modus operandi of wooing autowalahs

Starting with the ruling BJP, the Bommai government has tried to win their hearts by promising them to include their children in the Raitha Vidya Nidhi scheme.

Similarly, former CM H.D. Kumaraswamy has promised Rs 2,000 per month for auto drivers if his party JDS comes to power while State Congress president D.K. Shivakumar has gone a step ahead by riding an autorickshaw as part of his election campaign.

Shivakumar even sported a khakhi dress, generally worn by autowallahs, while attending an event. He claimed that auto drivers are the "charioteers of ordinary people" and they do not differentiate people on the basis of caste and religion.

"By transporting people, they are doing a service. But their pockets are being picked daily by surging fuel prices. Auto drivers are important for us," he said. "Auto drivers are our family. They are doing national service. We will help the ordinary people. I belong to their family," India Today quoted him as saying.

Cong to secure sound win in Karnataka polls, predicts pre-poll survey

Auto drivers community is very often criticised by the commuters for their rude behaviour in Karnataka and especially in Bengaluru. At the same time, they are often harassed by traffic cops while their pleas fall into deaf ears.

Not surprisingly, no parties have promised them to find solutions to their genuine concerns. Notably, the auto driver unions have been demanding a ban on bike taxis as they "threaten" their livelihood.

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Tuesday, April 18, 2023, 14:55 [IST]
Kerala train fire accused Sharukh Saifi may not be a lone wolf: Sources

India

oi-Vicky Nanjappa

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is all set to take over the investigation in the Kerala train arson case and this comes close on the heels of the Kerala police invoking the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act in the case.

The Kerala police during its course of investigation has found it hard to crack Sharukh Saifi, the prime accused in the case. A source tells OneIndia that Saifi is highly radicalised and he has been vary in his answers. The NIA is being roped in to probe the case, as prima facie evidence suggests that Saifi was part of a pan-India network.

He is also highly radicalised and was influenced by the speeches of radical preacher, Zakir Naik. The NIA would probe and find out if Saifi was being managed by handlers from outside. His diary had a number of railway stations and the suspicion is that there could be a larger motive to it, the source said.

Kerala train arson may just be the start of a nationwide op: Sources

The NIA had been part of this probe, although not formally. The agency had collected material and other evidences from the site.

Saifi had set fire to a train compartment as a result of which three persons had died and nine were injured. He was arrested from Ratnagiri in Maharashtra.

According to Kerala's additional director general of police, M R Ajith Kumar, Saifi would regularly watch videos of Naik's speeches. The probe is still on and the police is also trying to ascertain whether the accused was in contact with a local.

"We went to various states and based on scientific, documentary and oral evidence collected, conducted a comprehensive probe and decided to invoke the concerned provisions of UAPA. He is highly radicalised. He saw radicalised videos of Zakeer Naik and others. He came here in a pre-planned manner to commit the crime," Kumar told the media.

Another source says that Saifi had not acted as a lone wolf. He had outside support and was acting as per the instructions of others. While he may have been radicalised by watching the videos and due to online propaganda, the probe so far shows that he had acted with the support of other persons. On the radar of the agencies is also one person who was seen speeding away on a bike following the incident.

Kerala train burning, an act of terror using unconventional means

Saifi has confessed to the crime, but has not revealed any motive. He keeps feigning illness each time he is interrogated.

On April 2, Saifi had set his co-passengers on fire aboard the Alappuzha-Kannur Executive Express train when it reached Korapuzha bridge at Kozhikode.
London High Commission case to be probed by NIA

India

oi-Vicky Nanjappa

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has take-over the London High Commission violence case.

Based on the inputs received by the Delhi Police and Ministry of Home Affairs, the NIA was directed to probe the matter. The probe was handed over after the Special Cell of the Delhi police registered a case on the incident that took place on March 23. The case was registered on the basis of a complaint filed by an official of the London High Commission.

In the incident, two officials of the Indian High Commission in London sustained injuries during violence by radical Sikh elements.

In its FIR, the Delhi police named Sikh extremists Avtar Singh and Gurcharan Singh as the prime suspects. The FIR says that 60 separatists were led by Avtar Singh. Both the accused were recognised by the London high Commission official as taking part in the violence and also dishonouring the Indian Flag. It was both these persons who instigated the mob to vandalise the High Commission, the FIR said.

India has been repeatedly nudging the United Kingdom to act against these elements, who have run amok on its soil. The Modi government has asked for visible action to be taken against these persons, but the UK government has been repeatedly trying to dismiss the dishonouring of the National Flag by Sikh extremists as part of their right to protest and freedom of speech.

Delhi Police file FIR over protest outside Indian High Commission in London

The issue has been the same in case of Canada also. India shares uncomfortable diplomatic ties with Canada over the Khalistan issue. India has repeatedly asked Canada to to reign in on these extremists, but no action has come by.

There has been a sustained ISI sponsored campaign to rake up the Khalistan movement. It had even brought down Amritpal Singh from Dubai to head the Waris Punjab De, a group that was started by Deep Sidhu who recently died in an accident. Amritpal's supporters had caused havoc at the Ajnala police station in Punjab demanding the release of their aide. Since then, the Punjab police launched a manhunt for him and he has been missing since.
NHRC issues notice to UP Police over killing of Atiq Ahmed, brother

India

pti-PTI

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a notice to the Uttar Pradesh Police over the killing of gangster-politician Atiq Ahmed and his brother Ashraf when they were being escorted by police in Prayagraj, officials said on Tuesday.

In its notice to the Director General of Police of Uttar Pradesh and the Commissioner of Police of Prayagraj, the commission sought reports from them within four weeks.

The reports should cover all the aspects leading to the killings, copies of medical-legal certificates of the deceased, inquest report, post-mortem report, video cassette/CD of post-mortem examination, site plan of scene of occurrence of the crime, and magisterial enquiry report, it added.

Hunt for slain gangster Atiq Ahmeds sister Ayesha Noori intensifies

Ahmed and Ashraf were shot dead at point-blank range by three men posing as journalists in the middle of a media interaction on Saturday night when police personnel were escorting them to a medical college in Prayagraj for a checkup.

They were brought to Prayagraj from Gujarat and Bareilly prisons for interrogation in connection with the killing of Umesh Pal and his two police security guards earlier this year. The brothers were in handcuffs when they were killed in full view of camera crews.

The horrifying visuals were circulated widely on social media platforms and television channels. The last rites of Ahmed's son Asad, who was gunned down in a police encounter in Jhansi on April 13, were performed in Prayagraj just hours before the shooting.
'Mafia who had a free run in 2017 are now begging for life': UP CM

Now mafia can't threaten anyone in UP: Yogi warns after Atiq killing

India

oi-Deepika S

Days after gangster-turned-politician Atiq Ahmed and his brother were shot dead in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday warned that "now mafias cannot threaten anyone in the state".

"Before 2017, the law and order in the state was not good, but after that, there is a rule of law in the state. From 2017 to 2023, there have been no riots in Uttar Pradesh; there was no need for a curfew," Yogi Aditynath said while speaking at a function.

The chief minister's comments come even as gangster Atiq Ahmed and his brother were shot dead at point-blank range by three men posing as journalists in the middle of a media interaction on Saturday night.

The accused Lovelesh Tiwari, Sunny and Arun Maurya, who confessed to the crime said that they wanted to eliminate Atiq Ahmed to become popular.

The killers planned the attack after they learnt that the brothers were being taken to a hospital for a medical check-up. The shooters diisguised as journalists as they wanted to get very close to Atiq and tracked him all day on Saturday with other media persons.

The shooting incident occurred just two days after the gangster-turned-politician's son Asad Ahmed was killed in an encounter by the UP cops in Jhansi. Asad and his accomplice Ghulam were wanted in the Umesh Pal murder case of Prayagraj and were carrying a reward of Rs 5 lakh each.

Meanwhile, advocate Vishal Tiwari filed the plea which also sought an inquiry into the 183 encounters that have taken place in Uttar Pradesh since 2017.
Rajasthan to get first Vande Bharat express tomorrow: All you need to know

Korean vlogger sexually harassed during her live streaming in Jodhpur

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

Jodhpur police on Monday arrested a man for allegedly flashing his private parts at a South Korean vlogger while she was visiting a tourist place, police said on Tuesday. The woman recorded the act on her mobile phone and posted it on social media.

In the video, the man can be seen flashing private parts at the vlogger and chasing her. Later, the girl can be seen shouting and running away from the man.

After the video went viral on various social media platforms, police took cognisance of the matter and took the accused into police custody.

Deputy Commissioner of Police, Jodhpur East, Amrita Duhan said police took suo moto action on seeing the video of the harassment of the foreign national. "A woman foreign tourist blogger had put up a post on her social media that a man had sexually harassed her in Jodhpur. Taking cognizance of this information, we identified the man and arrested him," Jodhpur East DCP quoted by news agency ANI.

A case was registered under section 151 (arrest to prevent the commission of cognisable offences) of CrPC and the accused was arrested on Monday, she said, adding during medical examination, the man was found mentally unsound.

Station House Officer (SHO), Sadar Kotwali, Dinesh Lakhawat said that the alleged incident took place Monday morning when the woman was returning from Pachetia Hill through stairs.

Video of maid thrashing pet dog inside lift in Gurugram goes viral

The accused was roaming around the area and on seeing the woman began following her, the police officer said.

Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) wrote a letter to Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot requesting to file a criminal complaint against the man for allegedly sexually harassing the vlogger at a fort in Jodhour.

Just came across this video of a Korean vlogger who posted a video of her being sexually harassed in Jodhpur. This is extremely disgusting and shameful. People like these are spoiling the image of our great country. Am writing to Shri @AshokGehlot51 to take strongest action! pic.twitter.com/8vfjblcizx  Swati Maliwal (@SwatiJaiHind) April 18, 2023

The DCW has learnt that a Korean vlogger was harassed by a man in a fort in Jodhpur.

"This incident is not only a grave violation of the girl's rights but has also brought shame to our country, as it raises serious questions about the safety and security of women, both domestic and foreign nationals, in our society. As a nation, we cannot allow such acts of harassment and violence to occur and must take prompt and effective measures to ensure justice for the girl and prevent such incidents in the future," Maliwal said in the statement.
Chinese Ambassador to Uganda Zhang Lizhong (R) presents prizes to Nsubuga Vianney (C) and Wamala Sadik, winners of the Ugandan finals of the "Chinese Bridge" competitions, at Kawempe Muslim Secondary School, Kampala, Uganda, April 16, 2023. Uganda on Sunday held the "Chinese Bridge" competitions aimed at testing college and secondary students' proficiency in Mandarin in Kampala, the capital of Uganda.

The event was held under the theme "One World, One Family" for both categories at Kawempe Muslim Secondary School. A total of 12 finalists from both categories showcased their Chinese language skills and understanding of Chinese culture through speeches, quizzes, and cultural performances. (Photo by Nicholas Kajoba/Xinhua)

KAMPALA, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Uganda on Sunday held the "Chinese Bridge" competitions aimed at testing college and secondary students' proficiency in Mandarin in Kampala, the capital of Uganda.

The event was held under the theme "One World, One Family" for both categories at Kawempe Muslim Secondary School. A total of 12 finalists from both categories showcased their Chinese language skills and understanding of Chinese culture through speeches, quizzes, and cultural performances.

Both Vianney Nsubuga of Luyanzi Confucius Class, who won the competition for the college category, and Sadik Wamala, who won in the secondary category, will represent Uganda in the global competitions.

Nsubuga was full of excitement as he hugged his fellow contestants after being announced as the winner. "I am so excited about this win. I didn't expect it because it was a tough journey to beat all these contestants. But thank God I have made it, and I will be traveling to China and learn more about Chinese culture," Nsubuga said.

Wamala said he will keep revising and make it a point to learn more about the Chinese language and culture.

Chinese Ambassador to Uganda Zhang Lizhong said the competitions have promoted cultural exchanges between the two countries, and become a platform for students to make friends.

"The Chinese language has become not only a golden key to understanding China, but also a golden bridge to strengthen our mutual support, solidarity, and bilateral cooperation in various fields, and continuously deepen the China-Uganda comprehensive cooperative partnership," he said.

Grace Baguma, director of Uganda's National Curriculum Development Center, said the partnership between Uganda and China has enabled many Ugandans to achieve more in terms of job creation and empowerment.

Baguma said last year over 98 percent of students who sat the ordinary level secondary school examinations for the Chinese language passed very well, attributing it to support from the government and Chinese embassy. She said more secondary school teachers have started learning and taking courses in the Chinese language in order to get jobs in schools and companies that have a niche in Chinese. 

A contestant performs during the Ugandan finals of the "Chinese Bridge" competitions at Kawempe Muslim Secondary School, Kampala, Uganda, April 16, 2023. Uganda on Sunday held the "Chinese Bridge" competitions aimed at testing college and secondary students' proficiency in Mandarin in Kampala, the capital of Uganda.

The event was held under the theme "One World, One Family" for both categories at Kawempe Muslim Secondary School. A total of 12 finalists from both categories showcased their Chinese language skills and understanding of Chinese culture through speeches, quizzes, and cultural performances. (Photo by Nicholas Kajoba/Xinhua)

A contestant performs guzheng, a Chinese zither, during the Ugandan finals of the "Chinese Bridge" competitions at Kawempe Muslim Secondary School, Kampala, Uganda, April 16, 2023. Uganda on Sunday held the "Chinese Bridge" competitions aimed at testing college and secondary students' proficiency in Mandarin in Kampala, the capital of Uganda.

The event was held under the theme "One World, One Family" for both categories at Kawempe Muslim Secondary School. A total of 12 finalists from both categories showcased their Chinese language skills and understanding of Chinese culture through speeches, quizzes, and cultural performances. (Photo by Nicholas Kajoba/Xinhua)

A contestant dances during the Ugandan finals of the "Chinese Bridge" competitions at Kawempe Muslim Secondary School in Kampala, Uganda, April 16, 2023. Uganda on Sunday held the "Chinese Bridge" competitions aimed at testing college and secondary students' proficiency in Mandarin in Kampala, the capital of Uganda.

The event was held under the theme "One World, One Family" for both categories at Kawempe Muslim Secondary School. A total of 12 finalists from both categories showcased their Chinese language skills and understanding of Chinese culture through speeches, quizzes, and cultural performances. (Photo by Nicholas Kajoba/Xinhua)
Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksiy Reznikov showed the French AMX-10 armored cars handed over to Ukrainian soldiers, calling them "a sniper rifle on fast wheels."

Ukrainian Marines welcome their new French-made cavalry, the AMX-10s! We took it for a spin together with our warriors, and we agreed to call the AMX-10 the sniper rifle on the fast wheels. Thank you to my colleague Sebastien Lecornu and to Emmanuel Macron with whom I had a chance to meet and to discuss our priorities and needs, Reznikov said on Twitter.

The Minister also thanked the people of France for their strong support.

These fast, modern machines with powerful guns will aid us in liberating our territory. This is what Liberty, Equality, and Brotherhood look like. Vive la France! Vive l'Ukraine! Reznikov added.

As reported, French Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu said before the Defense Commission of the National Assembly on Wednesday, March 15, that the AMX-10 RC armored fighting vehicles promised by France have already been delivered to Ukraine.
Oppn clamour for caste census grows ahead of 2024 parliamentary polls

India

oi-Deepika S

The clamour for a caste-based census is growing with opposition parties, which are trying to come together to form a united front against the BJP, pressing the ruling dispensation over the issue, ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.

The Congress, Janata Dal-United (JDU), Samajwadi Party and Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) have urged the government to release the caste census and announce reservations for Dalits and tribals based on their population.

Addressing a rally in Karnataka, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday reiterated that the caste census should be made public so that OBCs are given better representation and that Dalits and Adivasis are given reservations proportionate to their population in the country.

Mallikarjun Kharge writes to PM Modi demanding caste census

Gandhi urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to release the caste-based OBC categorisation data of 2011 census in the public domain and provide reservation based on population.

"If the Prime Minister cares about OBC in the country, the first step would be to release data of the OBC census. Will the PM do that? No, because he doesn't want the welfare of OBCs," said Gandhi.

He promised that if voted to power, Congress would conduct a caste-based census.

The same day, Congress national president Mallikarjuna Kharge shot a letter to the Prime Minister asking for a comprehensive up-to-date caste census. "In the absence of an updated Caste Census, I am afraid a reliable database so very essential for meaningful social justice and empowerment programs, particularly for OBCs, is incomplete. This Census is the responsibility of the Union Government," he said.

"I would also like to point out that the regular decennial Census was to be carried out in 2021 but it has not yet been conducted. We demand that it be done immediately and that a comprehensive Caste Census be made its integral part," Kharge added in the letter.

Caste census grossly people-unfriendly

Bihar Chief Minister and JDU chief Nitish Kumar, who has been vocal about caste census, backed Congress' demand. "We have been in favour of the caste census right from the very beginning. When the Central government refused to do so, we decided to conduct the caste survey on our own. It is going on in the State. The exercise will provide data to the government for carrying out works for the benefit of weaker sections of the society," Kumar told reporters in Patna.

Similarly, RJD leader Tejashvi Yadav too batted for caste-based reservation and said that it should not be limited to Bihar only but should be there for the whole country.

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Story first published: Tuesday, April 18, 2023, 12:32 [IST]
Pawars deny trouble in NCP, but why BJP needs a new partner?

India

oi-Prakash KL

The Maharashtra politics is in the news again with the rumours of rebellion in NCP led by Ajit Pawar. Though both NCP chief Sharad Pawar and his nephew Ajit have denied the rumours, the possibility of rebellion cannot be ruled out.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Monday recalled Sharad Pawar telling him last week that some leaders might bid goodbye to his party under pressure. At the meeting with Thackeray, Pawar had said to have spoken of pressure and threats being applied by Central agencies like ED, CBI and the police machinery to split the NCP in the manner of the Shiv Sena.

This leads to a question - why the BJP wants a new partner in Maharashtra? Here are a few possible reasons:

Very much in NCP says Ajit Pawar as Maharashtra speaker cuts short Japan visit

Supreme Court is expected to pass its verdict soon on the disqualification petition of 16 rebel Shiv Sena from CM Eknath Shinde's faction soon and the BJP does not want to take any chance if the verdict do not come its favour. Hence, the saffron party is looking for a partner, News18 reported citing sources in the BJP.

Sena had 55 members in the 288-member Assembly before Shinde-led rebellion and joined hands with 40 MLAs in the Assembly where where the magic number is 144. BJP has 105 seats while NCP and Congress have 53 and 44 legislatures, respectively.

Shiv Sena does not have enough MLAs and Congress is not an option for BJP as the grand old party is its arch rival. Hence, BJP is looking at having NCP MLAs by its side, thus keeping its government in Maharashtra stable.

Ajit Pawar has backing of 40 MLAs, is a split within the NCP imminent

However, another source told the channel that BJP is looking for another partner as it is not happy with Shinde's performance. "This government has completely failed on the issue of farmers. They are not taking any positive decision for the people of the State. So, considering the general election in 2024, it is very difficult for the BJP to win maximum seats from the State. Hence, the BJP is looking out for another partner. But, as of now, there is no such movement in the party and Sharad Pawar is in touch with all the NCP leaders and MLAs," a source from the NCP said.

It may be recalled that Ajit Pawar had earlier rebelled against the NCP and joined hands with the BJP to become Deputy Chief Minister. However, Sharard Pawar had managed to bring Ajit back to the party fold then.

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Story first published: Tuesday, April 18, 2023, 16:37 [IST]
SC orders release of UP Secys taken into custody in contempt case

SC must let legislature decide on same sex marriage, says lawyers' bodies

SC agrees to hear plea seeking probe into Atiq Ahmed's killing

India

oi-Prakash KL

The Supreme Court has agreed to hear a plea seeking an independent inquiry into the killing of gangster-turned-politician Atiq Ahmed and his brother Ashraf while they were in police custody.

Advocate Vishal Tiwari filed the plea which also sought an inquiry into the 183 encounters that have taken place in Uttar Pradesh since 2017.

The matter has been listed for April 24.

Gangster-turned-politician Atiq Ahmed and his brother Ashraf were shot dead at point-blank range by the three who posed as journalists in the middle of a media interaction on Saturday night. The incident occurred when police personnel were escorting them to a medical college in Prayagraj for a checkup.

Atiq killers were inspired by Lawrence Bishnoi's interviews

Posing as journalists, the three killers were trying to get sound bites from the two gangsters. The men suddenly dropped their camera and attacked the gangster and his brother.

The incident occurred just two days after the gangster-turned-politician's son Asad Ahmed was killed in an encounter by the UP cops in Jhansi.

Asad and his accomplice Ghulam were wanted in the Umesh Pal murder case of Prayagraj and were carrying a reward of Rs 5 lakh each.

Last Friday, Uttar Pradesh Police said that it had encountered 183 alleged criminals in the last six years and this included Asad and his accomplice.

The plea filed by Tiwari had sought the creation of an independent expert committee to probe the killings of Atiq and Ashraf.

"Issue guidelines/directions to safeguard the rule of law by constituting an Independent Expert Committee under the Chairmanship of former Supreme Court justice to inquire into the 183 encounters which had occurred since 2017 as stated by Uttar Pradesh Special Director General of Police (Law and Order) and also to inquire into the police custody murder of Atiq and Ashraf," the plea stated.

Referring to the gangster's killing, the plea stated that "such actions by police are a severe threat to democracy and rule of law and lead to police state".

"In a democratic society the police cannot be allowed to become a mode of delivering final justice or to become a punishing authority. The power of punishment is only vested in the judiciary," the plea added.

The extra-judicial killings or fake police encounters have no place under the law and the entire rule of law collapses when the cop turns "Dare Devils".
Sharad Pawar attends iftar party with nephew Ajit amid rift rumour

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) president Sharad Pawar on Tuesday attended an event with his nephew and former Maharashtra deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar on Tuesday evening amid swirling rumours about his next political move. They were seen together at their party's annual Iftar party at Mumbai's Islam Gymkhana.

Speaking at an Iftar party organised by the NCP, Pawar said an atmosphere is being created that taking law into one's hands is the right thing to do but this bodes ill for the country. The NCP will never compromise on law and order and the ideals of the Constitution.

The veteran politician was apparently referring to politician-gangster's Atiq Ahmad's murder while in police custody in Uttar Pradesh, as reported by news agency PTI.

Pawars deny trouble in NCP, but why BJP needs a new partner?

"When someone does something wrong in society, law has provisions to deal with such a person. But by not following the law and Constitution and taking law into one's hand...certain steps are taken. There is an attempt to create an atmosphere that this is the right thing to do, and this is not good for the country," Pawar said.

The event was attended by NCP leaders including MPs Supriya Sule, Fauzia Khan and Mohammed Faizal and former ministers Chhagan Bhujbal, Anil Deshmukh and Jitendra Awhad.

Atiq Ahmad and his brother Ashraf were shot dead by three men posing as journalists while they were being escorted by police to a medical college in Prayagraj on Saturday night.

(with PTI inputs)
Why 2024, NCP can stake claim to Maharashtra CM post now also, says Ajit Pawar

Very much in NCP says Ajit Pawar as Maharashtra speaker cuts short Japan visit

India

oi-Vicky Nanjappa

Amidst all the talk that he would be quitting the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), Ajit Pawar has said that he is still with the party.

He clarified that he will not jump ship and remain in the NCP itself. He also set aside rumours that he would be joining another party.

His statements comes in the backdrop of his uncle and NCP supremo, Sharad Pawar also rejecting rumours that his nephew would be jumping ship. "He is busy with election related work and all the reports of an ongoing crisis are false," Sharad Pawar had said.

Is Ajit Pawar joining BJP? Here's what Sharad Pawar has to say

Ajit Pawar said that he did not take any signatures of NCP MLAs. This is an attempt to create confusion about me he also added.

Meanwhile, reports also said that Ajit Pawar would be attending the Iftaar party to be hosted by Sharad Pawar. He also said that he would do what the party tells him to do.

These clarifications comes amidst television reports that out of the 53 NCP MLAs, 34 may support Ajit Pawar if he decides to ally with the BJP in Maharashtra.

Another report said the Ajit Pawar has the support of 40 MLAs and he has got consent signatures from them. The report also added that Sharad Pawar has not made any counter move.

'I am with NCP': Ajit Pawar dismisses reports linking him to BJP

It may be recalled that in 2019, Ajit Pawar had joined hands with Devendra Fadnavis and formed an 80-hour government in Maharashtra. At that time, Sharad Pawar had prevailed over the NCP MLAs and convinced them not to switch sides. The government eventually collapsed and led to the formation of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) which has the Shiv Sena (UBT), NCP and Congress in it.

Meanwhile television reports said that Maharashtra speaker, Rahul Narwekar has cut short his Japan visit amidst the ongoing crisis in the state.

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Story first published: Tuesday, April 18, 2023, 15:29 [IST]
Karnataka poll: Why the swing & undecided voter could decide outcome

India

oi-Vicky Nanjappa

The race to Vidhan Soudha is heating up in the already scorching summer in Karnataka.

While all parties have their reserve vote bank, the interesting thing to look out for would be the undecided and swing voters. The BJP is confident that it would bag the Lingayat votes in large numbers. The Congress and Janata Dal (S) would on the other hand rely heavily on the Vokkaliga and Muslim votes.

According to experts OneIndia spoke with, the undecided voters are the ones who will make all the difference. This is what the parties would be targeting in the elections to be held on May 10.

Karnataka election 2023: Congress to secure handsome victory, predicts pre-poll survey

Data from the past elections show that the swing vote for the BJP and Congress has been 1 per cent each. Swing voters are important for any party and they are often referred as a silent majority. The votes could swing in any direction and these could be on issues such as anti-incumbency, leadership, corruption or money power. Issues such as the reservation for the Vokkaligas and Lingayats could also be a factor for a voter to change his mind.

These voters are found highest in the Old Mysuru Region and also among the Muslim women voters in Northern Karnataka. In all the data shows that on an average, the undecided voter in Karnataka is 12 per cent.

In addition to these voters, the first timers are also in demand in Karnataka. There has been a focus on those who have turned 18 this year. Most internal surveys by the political parties have found that those who have just turned 18 have no party affiliation and hence would be easy to influence. The interesting part is that these voters in Karnataka form 3 per cent of the electorate.

In the 2018 elections when no party was able to secure a majority, the winning margin was less than 3,000 in 26 assembly seats. In six segments, the winning majority was less than a 1,000. The experts who have crunched the numbers say that in all these constituencies the consolidation of the first-time and undecided voters could have titled the fortunes of the contestants.

All parties in the state are aware that no party can win a simple majority unless they are supported by young and undecided voters.

Karnataka polls 2023: BJP releases 3rd list of candidates, SA Ramadas denied ticket

The focus on the first timers is also high this time as the number has risen to 20 lakh. In 2013, the number of first time voters was at 7.2 lakh and it shot up to 15.5 lakh in the 2018 elections. Psephologists say that had the Congress and BJP managed to converted the support of the young and undecided voters in the 2018 elections, either of the parties would have ended up with a simple majority.

The BJP this time is going all it can to draw support of the young voters. It's had launched a voter enrolment drive and appointed 'Panch Pramukhs' to get in touch with the voters.
Pak seals off Chinese businesses over fear of terror attack

International

oi-Vicky Nanjappa

The Karachi police has resorted to temporarily shutting some businesses run by Chinese nationals in the city in a bid to prevent terror attacks.

The development is seen as an embarrassment for all weather-friends China and Pakistan. Reports say that the businesses were shut off to prevent terror attacks, which could compromise the strategic relations between the two countries, a Nikkei Asia report said.

A month back, China had temporarily closed the consular section of its embassy in Islamabad days after advising Chinese nationals to remain cautious in the wake of a worsening security situation in Pakistan.

Chinese engineer arrested in Pakistan for insulting 'Allah'

However it does not appear that Pakistan has been able to do much to safeguard the lives of Chinese nationals living in Pakistan. Terror groups operating in Pakistan continue to target Chinese nationals and projects connected to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor Project.

Many Pakistan nationals have become suspicious of the Chinese as they believe that their land is being encroached under the guise of enhancing their economic situation. To be sure, Pakistan's economy is in a mess.

Beijing on the other hand is dissatisfied with the existing security arrangements and has raised concerns on repeated occasions with Islamabad. In January Foreign Minister, Qin Gang had told his Pakistan counterpart, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari that the Chinese side is highly concerned about the safety of Chinese citizens in Pakistan and hoped that the Pakistani side will continue to take strong security measures.

Reports said that the decision taken by the Karachi police to seal off some Chinese businesses was based on an intelligence report, which indicated the possibility of terror attacks.

"Despite repeated warnings, several Chinese-owned businesses failed to implement security protocols, leading to their sealing until satisfactory security arrangements are made," the Nikkei Asia report said.

No let up in drone menace from Pakistan this year too: IB sources

Among the businesses closed are a Chinese restaurant, a supermarket, one marine product company, for non-compliance with standard security protocols outlined in the Sindh Security of Vulnerable Establishments Act, a law that mandates security arrangements for targeted locations, a report in the Sindhi Laws said.

Karachi has reported the maximum number of attacks on Chinese nationals. IN 2022, a major terror attack on the Confucius Institute at the University of Karachi, claimed the lives of three Chinese nationals and one Pakistani driver. There was also an attack on a building that houses the stock exchange in June 2020, which is partly owned by a Chinese consortium. An attack the Chinese consulate in Karachi had been reported in 2018.
Sudan violence: Death toll up to 200, around 1,800 wounded

International

oi-Prakash KL

The death toll from fighting between the Sudanese Army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has increased to 200 and left about 1,800 people wounded, according to a report in AFP.

The fighting erupted between nation's two top Generals, each backed by tens of thousands of heavily armed fighters, on Saturday which has left millions trapped in their homes or wherever they could find shelter.

Although the figures of death have not been officially revealed, Volker Perthes, head of the United Nations mission to Sudan, told the Security Council in a closed-door session that at least 185 people have died so far. "It's a very fluid situation so it's very difficult to say where the balance is shifting to," Perthes told reporters after the meeting.

Despite regional and global calls for a ceasefire, the fighting in the capital could be prolonged, according to analysts. Top diplomats have come forward to broker peace between the warring Generals and the UN Security Council was set to discuss the crisis. Egypt, which backs Sudan's military, and Saudi Arabia and the UAE, which has built close ties with RSF in recent years, have urged the military Generals to stand down, the report added.

Sudan unrest: India sets up control room, issues fresh advisory

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has condemned the fighting while appealing the leaders to immediately cease hostilities. "I urge all those with influence over the situation to use it in the cause of peace; to support efforts to end the violence, restore order, and return to the path of transition," he said. "The humanitarian situation in Sudan was already precarious and is now catastrophic."

On Monday, the European Union's Ambassador to Sudan was attacked in his home in Khartoum, the bloc's top diplomat Josep Borrell said. However, he is "ok" as per a spokesperson after the assault. "Security of diplomatic premises and staff is a primary responsibility of Sudanese authorities and an obligation under international law," Borrell said.

The fighting is witnessing air strikes, artillery and heavy gunfire. Also, people are hit by power outages. The Sudan Doctors' Syndicate said at least 12 out of 20 hospitals are "out of service" due to power issues in the capital. Four hospitals outside the city are shut.

Till recently, Sudan's military leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo were together and had toppled Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir's government in 2019. However, differences between the two Generals came out in open during negotiations to integrate the RSF into the country's military as part of plans to restore civilian rule, according to CNN.

India's response

The Ministry of External Affairs has said that a control room has been set up to assist Indian citizens after the clashes broke out on Saturday. Also, it issued an advisory urging Indians not to venture out of their residences and stay calm.

On Sunday, the embassy said an Indian national died in Khartoum after sustaining bullet injuries. "Based on the latest inputs, the fighting has not Subsided on day two. We sincerely request all fellow Indians to continue stay where they are and not venture outside,'' the mission said in its second advisory after violence broke out in Khartoum.

With inputs from agencies
The Ontario government is telling the country's top court the disclosure of ministerial mandate letters would reveal the substance of deliberations of the premier and his cabinet - breaching a key tenet of Westminster-style government.
Thirty years ago, 76 people were killed when the FBI launched an assault on the Branch Davidians Mount Carmel Center in Waco, Texas, after a weeks long siege failed to resolve the standoff.
During the day, Ukrainian defenders repelled about 30 enemy attacks in Lymany, Bakhmut, Avdiyivka and Maryinka directions, the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported in a message as of 18:00 on Tuesday.

Fierce battles for Bakhmut and Maryinka continue.

During the day, the aviation of the Defense Forces carried out three strikes on the areas of concentration of personnel and a strike on the enemy's anti-aircraft missile system.

Units of rocket troops and artillery hit two areas of concentration of manpower, weapons and military equipment of the occupiers, an electronic warfare station and another "one important military object" of the enemy.
At least 185 people died and some 1800 were wounded in battles that included an assault on the international airport. Even the EU ambassador was assaulted in his own residency.
The Scottish National Partys (SNP) treasurer Colin Beattie has been arrested in a police probe into the partys finances, according to reports. Beattie, 71, is under arrest in connection with the ongoing investigation into the funding and finances of the party, Police Scotland has said, the PA news agency has reported, In a statement, the [...]
Following French and German visits to China, it remains unclear if the European Union  or even Germany itself  can speak in one voice on China. Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock is calling for a "clear line."
Newsy 21 Apr 2023

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A US embassy convoy in Sudan was fired upon in a "reckless" and "irresponsible" incident, the US secretary of state said.
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Russian President Vladimir Putin visited troops in two occupied regions of Ukraine, according to video released Tuesday by the..
Evan Gershkovich has appeared in a Russian court to appeal his detention, nearly three weeks after he was arrested for espionage, an allegation his lawyers and the US government strongly deny.
Jailed American journalist Evan Gershkovich appeared in a Moscow court on Tuesday to appeal his detention on spying charges, part of a sweeping Kremlin crackdown on dissent amid the war in Ukraine. He and the U.S. government strenuously deny the allegations.
Cabinet appoints Kurbatov as Dpty Minister of Education, Slobodnychenko as Dpty Minister of Health

The Cabinet of Ministers appointed Denys Kurbatov as Deputy Minister of Education and Science, Maryna Slobodnychenko as Deputy Minister of Health for European Integration.

As representative of the Cabinet of Ministers in the Verkhovna Rada Taras Melnychuk said on Telegram, the corresponding decision was made at a government meeting on Tuesday.

At the same time, the Cabinet of Ministers dismissed Maya Yankovska from the post of first deputy head of the State Agency for Infrastructure Projects of Ukraine.
The detention of Evan Gershkovich marks the first time an American journalist has been arrested on espionage charges since the Cold War.


The Sudanese army has agreed to a pause in fighting for 24 hours beginning Tuesday evening. It came after US top diplomat Antony Blinken urged warring factions to ensure the safety of civilians. DW has the latest.
Upworthy 19 Apr 2023

The maker of Sweden's Absolut vodka said Tuesday it was suspending all exports to Russia after calls to boycott the brand flared up..
With appeals for help pouring in, the Indian embassy in Sudan has advised Indian nationals not to step out, ration their supplies and seek help from neighbours, as the situation seemed unlikely to change in the next few days.
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A man in Houston, Texas, has been arrested and charged with leaving multiple threatening messages on the voicemail of Democratic Rep. Maxine Waters of California.
The top Senate Republican said his party would not allow Democrats to temporarily replace the ailing Californian on the Judiciary Committee, intensifying questions about how the chamber will function without her.
The four-day-old military conflict in Sudanbetween two factions of the countrys armed forcesis threatening to unleash a civil war reminiscent of two other nations in the Middle East: Yemen and Syria



The conflict in both countries has resulted in two of the worst humanitarian disasters in recent years resulting in...
Ford Motor will import its next-generation Lincoln Nautilus from China to the U.S., the company said Monday night. The midsize crossover is currently produced for the U.S. at Ford's Oakville Assembly Plant in Ontario, Canada. The automaker recently announced it would be investing 1.8 billion



#fordmotor #lincoln #nautilus #ford #ontario #generalmotors #buickenvision #detroit #invasion #stephaniebrinley
The Council of the European Union has approved a proposal initiated by the European Commission to include an agreement on a free telephone roaming zone with Ukraine in the Association Agreement between the EU and Ukraine, the Ministry of Digital Transformation reported on Telegram on Tuesday.

"We are approaching mobile roaming with the EU. In order for Ukrainians not to pay additional fees for communication in Europe, and Europeans in Ukraine, the EU Council approved the proposal (of the European Commission) and gave the green light for a bilateral solution," Deputy Prime Minister for Innovation, Development of Education, Science and Technology, Minister of Digital Transformation Mykhailo Fedorov wrote on Telegram.

According to him, the price of calls to relatives in Europe for Ukrainians will decrease. Operators will not charge UAH 30 per minute of conversation. There will be no need to change SIM cards while traveling in Europe. In addition, consumer rights will be protected under EU rules.

It is noted that further the final decision approved by the EU Council should be approved by the EU-Ukraine Trade Committee. In accordance with the agreement, the committee will have to make a joint decision on the provision of mutual internal market regime for roaming.

Earlier it was reported that the inclusion of Ukraine in the EU free roaming zone is one of the key actions of the revised Priority Action Plan. This plan is a roadmap for the full implementation of the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area between the EU and Ukraine and the further integration of Ukraine into the EU Single Market.

Currently, EU and Ukrainian telecom operators offer affordable or free calls between the EU and Ukraine on a voluntary basis. Thanks to this agreement, about 4 million Ukrainian refugees in the EU have an accessible connection. Voluntary measures were recently extended for six months, and the new procedure now also applies to calls to fixed-line numbers in Ukraine, as well as to new types of operators.
"I can confirm that yesterday we had an American diplomatic convoy that was fired on. All of our people are safe and unharmed. But this action was reckless, it was irresponsible and of course unsafe," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters in Japan after G7 talks.
Russian President Vladimir Putin visited headquarters of the Russian troops fighting in Ukraine early Tuesday, his second trip to the Russian-held territories there since March. A video released
A US diplomatic convoy came under fire on Monday in Sudan in an apparent attack by fighters associated with Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Russian President Vladimir Putin has visited military headquarters in Russian-controlled Ukraine where he discussed the war with a general from Russia's airborne troops who has reportedly taken up a powerful new role in
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Climate activists say that they will stage further protests in Berlin in an effort to force the German government into doing more..

SeattlePI.com 18 Apr 2023
Former president Thabo Mbeki has called for an urgent ceasefire in Sudan and an immediate return to negotiations that will usher in a civilian government.
Sri Lankas Cabinet of Ministers have decided not to grant permission for the holding of musical performances, political meetings or other mass gatherings at the Galle Face Green, except for religious activities, with effect from April 20.

A document from the Department of Government Information noted that the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) has accepted the task of conducting a corporate social responsibility (CSR) program and has already spent Rs. 220 million to carry out development programs.

It added, Rs. 6.6 million had to be spent on the repairs carried out to the Galle Face Green due to damages caused during the Aragalaya period.

It noted that it has become impossible to maintain the beauty of Galle Face Green due to mass gatherings, and thus with effect from April 20, 2023, Galle Face Green will only be used for religious events.
KHARTOUM: There has been an outbreak of violence in Sudan's capital Khartoum and other locations throughout the country, as rival military factions clash for supremacy, significantly elevating the possibility of a full-blown civil war.

WHAT TRIGGERED THE VIOLENCE?

Tension had been building for months between Sudan's army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which together toppled a civilian government in an October 2021 coup.

The friction was brought to a head by an internationally-backed plan to launch a new transition with civilian parties. A final deal was due to be signed earlier in April, on the fourth anniversary of the overthrow of long-ruling autocrat Omar al-Bashir in a popular uprising.

Both the army and the RSF were required to cede power under the plan and two issues proved particularly contentious: one was the timetable for the RSF to be integrated into the regular armed forces, and the second was when the army would be formally placed under civilian oversight.

When fighting broke out on April 15, both sides blamed the other for provoking the violence. The army accused the RSF of illegal mobilisation in preceding days and the RSF, as it moved on key strategic sites in Khartoum, said the army had tried to seize full power in a plot with Bashir loyalists.

WHO ARE THE MAIN PLAYERS ON THE GROUND?

The protagonists in the power struggle are General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, head of the army and leader of Sudan's ruling council since 2019, and his deputy on the council, RSF leader General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, commonly known as Hemedti.

As the plan for a new transition developed, Hemedti aligned himself more closely with civilian parties from a coalition, the Forces for Freedom and Change (FFC), that shared power with the military between Bashir's overthrow and the 2021 coup.

Diplomats and analysts said this was part of a strategy by Hemedti to transform himself into a statesman. Both the FFC and Hemedti, who grew wealthy through gold mining and other ventures, stressed the need to sideline Islamist-leaning Bashir loyalists and veterans who had regained a foothold following the coup and had deep roots in the army.

Along with some pro-army rebel factions that benefited from a 2020 peace deal, the Bashir loyalists opposed the deal for a new transition.

WHAT'S AT STAKE?

The popular uprising had raised hopes that Sudan and its population of 46 million could emerge from decades of autocracy, internal conflict and economic isolation under Bashir.

Conflict could not only destroy those hopes but destabilise a volatile region bordering the Sahel, the Red Sea and the Horn of Africa.

It could also play into competition for influence in the region between Russia and the United States, and between regional powers who have courted different actors in Sudan.

WHAT'S THE ROLE OF INTERNATIONAL ACTORS?

Western powers including the United States had swung behind a transition towards democratic elections following Bashir's overthrow. They suspended financial support following the coup, then backed the plan for a new transition and a civilian government.

Energy-rich powers Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have also sought to shape events in Sudan, seeing the transition away from Bashir's rule as a way to roll back Islamist influence and bolster stability in the region.

Gulf states have pursued investments in sectors including agriculture, where Sudan holds vast potential, and ports on Sudan's Red Sea coast.

Russia has been seeking to build a naval base on the Red Sea, while several UAE companies have been signing up to invest, with one UAE consortium inking a preliminary deal to build and operate a port and another UAE-based airline agreeing with a Sudanese partner to create a new low-cost carrier based in Khartoum.

Burhan and Hemedti both developed close ties to Saudi Arabia after sending troops to participate in the Saudi-led operation in Yemen. Hemedti has struck up relations with other foreign powers including the UAE and Russia.

Egypt, itself ruled by military man President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi who overthrew his Islamist predecessor, has deep ties to Burhan and the army and recently promoted a parallel track of political negotiations through parties with stronger links to the army and to Bashir's former government.

WHAT ARE THE SCENARIOS?

International parties have called for a ceasefire and a return to dialogue, but there has been little sign of compromise from the warring factions.

The army has branded the RSF as a rebel force and demanded its dissolution, while Hemedti has called Burhan a criminal and blamed him for visiting destruction on the country.

Though Sudan's army has superior resources including air power and the RSF expanded into a force estimated at 100,000 men that had deployed across Khartoum and its neighbouring cities as well as in other regions, raising the spectre of protracted conflict on top of a long-running economic crisis and existing, large-scale humanitarian needs.

The RSF can also draw on the support and tribal ties in the western region of Darfur, where it emerged from the militias that fought alongside government forces to crush rebels in a brutal war that escalated after 2003.

(With inputs from Reuters)
Swiss President on possibility of re-exporting weapons to Ukraine: Switzerland cannot be asked to break our own laws  media

Swiss President Alain Berset, during a joint conference with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, said that the country "cannot be asked to break our own laws" discussing the possibility of re-exporting Swiss weapons to Ukraine, CNN reports.

Berset said that, while discussions are ongoing regarding whether the country should, must or could develop its stance on re-exporting weapons to Ukraine, it is currently out of the question, with Swiss law clear on that," a message ported on Tuesday reads.
The shifting sands of the Middle East were caught up in a whirlwind last month, as the deal between Saudi Arabia and Iran in China was announced. The two rival powerhouses of the region have decided to work towards peace and prosperity for both nations.

How will this new relationship affect Syria, the US, Israel, Turkey and the Arab League? To gain insight into this surprising development in the region, Steven Sahiounie of MidEastDiscourse interviewed Elijah J. Magnier, a veteran war-zone correspondent and political analyst with over 35 years of experience covering the Middle East and North Africa.

Magnier has covered many of the key wars and military clashes in the region, including the 1982 Israeli invasion of Lebanon, the Iraq-Iran War, the Lebanese Civil War, the Gulf War of 1991, the 1992-1996 war in the former Yugoslavia, the 2001 war in Afghanistan, the 2003 US invasion of Iraq and subsequent war and occupation, the second Lebanon War in 2006, as well as the more recent wars in both Libya (2011) and Syria (2011-2019). Having lived for many years in Lebanon, Bosnia, Iraq, Iran, Libya and Syria, Elijah J. Magnier possesses unique insights into local cultural and tribal affairs, geopolitical realities and trends, and the history of a region that continues to pose challenges for both its residents and the world.

#1. Steven Sahiounie (SS): The Foreign Minister of Saudi Arabia will travel to Damascus to invite Syrian President Assad to the upcoming Arab League Summit scheduled for May 19 in Riyadh. How significant is this end of isolation for Syria, and what does this mean for the US relationship with Saudi Arabia?

Elijah J. Magnier (EJM): It is clear that Saudi Arabia no longer considers only the US interest, but also the Saudi interest to end all conflicts in the Middle East and start a new relationship with its neighbors, even if they fall under illegal US and EU sanctions. Saudi Arabia has stopped funding the jihadists and takfiris in Syria since 2015. Since then, there have been several meetings between officials from the two countries at the security and political levels. Naturally, the US is unhappy with this rapprochement, as it undermines the effectiveness of its sanctions and isolates the West from the Middle East. But, it is cautious not to rush into a full normalization between Syria and Saudi Arabia, unless the Saudis are prepared to help rebuild more than a decade of war, in which Riyadh has been an active participant and provocateur. It is too early to judge until we see the results.

#2. SS: Bringing Syria back into the brotherhood of Arab nations seems like a bold move by the Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. How will other Arab nations react to this new policy? Will they follow the lead of the Crown Prince?

EJM: Saudi Arabia is not the first to develop relations with Syria. The United Arab Emirates opened its embassy and restored relations years ago. However, the Saudi move to welcome Syria back into the Arab Summit and League has significant implications for all those Arabs who have boycotted Syria and are still funding the jihadists, such as Qatar. Again, it remains to be seen how this rapprochement will be translated by the other Gulf states beyond taking pictures together at the next summit.

#3. SS: Saudi Arabia plans to invite both Iran and Turkey to the Arab League Summit. The recent restoration of diplomatic relations, between Saudi Arabia and Iran, has paved the way for this invitation. How can Turkey participate in the new Syria policy?

EJM: Turkey is preoccupied with its presidential elections, and President Erdogan will want to capitalize on his meeting with President Assad. So far, the Syrian condition has been a commitment to a complete Turkish withdrawal from Syria. This is difficult for Turkey to achieve because it would mean that tens of thousands of jihadists and takfiris would turn against Ankara, and be left alone without a sponsor or cover. Moreover, the US will take a tough stance against Turkey because it hopes President Assad will not regain control of the entire territory. That is why Assad is holding firm for now despite Russian and Iranian pressure on Syria to persuade him to meet Erdogan. I don't see what he could gain from meeting his Turkish counterpart when Turkey is almost a month away from elections.

#4. SS: What are some of the economic benefits to the Arab world by bringing Syria back to the summit table?

EJM: Syria needs some $300-500 billion to rebuild the country and develop its natural resources. If the US allows, the Gulf states have much to gain from participating in Syria's reconstruction. Finally, the Gulf states are taking a positive step towards Syria, but this doesn't mean the US has become an enemy. On the contrary, the consequences of the US-Russian war in Ukraine have led many states to adopt a balancing approach and expand their options. This is what the Arab states are doing: opening up to Iran and Syria but keeping the level of US anger under control.

#5. SS: What about the Arab nations who have entered into normalization pacts with Israel; will they accept the Syrian resistance position? What about Qatar: they have been against restoring ties to Syria. How will they react?

EJM: Israel is the biggest loser in the rapprochement between the Saudis, Iranians and Syrians. Syria and Iran have been enemies for over ten years, and Israel has benefited from this narrative. Now that the situation is changing, Israel feels uncomfortable and more isolated, especially when its officials' planned visits have been postponed to an unknown date. As the consequences of the war in Ukraine become more evident, the Gulf states will move closer to Syria and become involved in the reconstruction of the country. There is considerable potential for full normalization as we approach the US elections. As for Qatar, the Saudis must find a balance for reconciliation. Damascus will not close its doors to Doha, which should stop its financial support for the jihadists in north-western occupied Syria.

Steven Sahiounie is a two-time award-winning journalist


Stone Bear

(Image by Gunnshots) Details DMCA



In Italy bears are Endangered.

Sometimes they might maim or kill someone.

One just killed a jogger

In the north-eastern region of Trentino-Alto Adige.

The bear, a 17 year old female, is named JJ4.

Bears have Alphanumeric names like stars.

JJ4's fate will be decided by a judge.

A bear that kills may kill again, or not.

In the old days,

The bear would hide by retreating to her cave

Where she would hold up her paw.

That was the old magic.

Her paw would grow to fill the entrance of her cave

And it would look like a rock.

The hunters would go right by.

But that was before dogs.

Dogs aren't fooled by the old magic.

They smell the bear

And they keep barking until the hunters come.

Even though the bear might be saying,

Go away, I am not supposed to die today!

But the dogs flush her out of the cave

So the hunters can shoot her or tranquilize her

Depending on their intentions.

I am sorry for the death of Andrea Papi

And yet I hope the judge is lenient with JJ4.

It must be hard living in a world

Where the old magic doesn't work any more.
This article originally appeared at TomDispatch.com. To receive TomDispatch in your inbox three times a week, click here.

No wonder I'm wearing a short-sleeved shirt and shorts today! After all, it's exceedingly warm this July, with temperatures only recently hitting a startling 90 in New York City where I live.

Whoops! What was I thinking? I meant this April, as record spring heat moved from the Southwest, where it was 95 degrees in Burlington, Colorado, across the Midwest, to the Northeast. Here, for several days, it felt distinctly like mid-summer. And yes, it's increasingly obvious that we're truly beginning to roast this planet, thanks to the phenomenon known as climate change. In recent decades, it's become all too clear that the burning of fossil fuels represents a potentially world-ending way of life (at least as we humans have known it).

And worse yet, global warming isn't the first but the second apocalyptic way that humanity has pioneered to potentially destroy this planet, the other being, of course, nuclear war. For a long while now, it's seemed as if the nuclear issue that was such a part of my own "duck and cover" childhood, had ceded ground to climate change.

So, thank Vladimir Putin for reminding us that this "new Cold War" era of ours is still a potential nuclear nightmare, too. Only recently, the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists moved the hands on its Doomsday Clock to 90 seconds before midnight for the first time since its creation in 1947, thanks in significant part to the war in Ukraine. There, the possibility that Russia's president, pushed against a military wall, might indeed use such weaponry is something we're all now living with, as is the possibility that one of Ukraine's nuclear plants could go up in proverbial flames, creating another war-made Chernobyl.

And as frightening as that might be, those aren't the only nuclear dangers in Ukraine. Let TomDispatch regular Joshua Frank, author of Atomic Days: The Untold Story of the Most Toxic Place in America, explain. All in all, let's just say that we humans are certainly a rash crew, aren't we? Tom

Will the West Turn Ukraine into a Nuclear Battlefield?

Why Depleted Uranium Should Have No Place There

By Joshua Frank

It's sure to be a blood-soaked spring in Ukraine. Russia's winter offensive fell far short of Vladimir Putin's objectives, leaving little doubt that the West's conveyor belt of weaponry has aided Ukraine's defenses. Cease-fire negotiations have never truly begun, while NATO has only strengthened its forces thanks to Finland's new membership (with Sweden soon likely to follow). Still, tens of thousands of people have perished; whole villages, even cities, have been reduced to rubble; millions of Ukrainians have poured into Poland and elsewhere; while Russia's brutish invasion rages on with no end in sight.

The hope, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, is that the Western allies will continue to furnish money, tanks, missiles, and everything else his battered country needs to fend off Putin's forces. The war will be won, according to Zelensky, not through backroom compromises but on the battlefield with guns and ammo.

"I appeal to you and the world with these most simple and yet important words," he said to a joint session of Great Britain's parliament in February. "Combat aircraft for Ukraine, wings for freedom."

The United Kingdom, which has committed well over $2 billion in assistance to Ukraine, has so far refused to ship fighter jets there but has promised to supply more weaponry, including tank shells made with depleted uranium (DU), also known as "radioactive bullets." A by-product of uranium enrichment, DU is a very dense and radioactive metal that, when housed in small torpedo-like munitions, can pierce thickly armored tanks and other vehicles.

Reacting to the British announcement, Putin ominously said he would "respond accordingly" if the Ukrainians begin blasting off rounds of DU.

While the UK's decision to send depleted-uranium shells to Ukraine is unlikely to prove a turning point in the war's outcome, it will have a lasting, potentially devastating, impact on soldiers, civilians, and the environment. The controversial deployment of DU doesn't pose faintly the same risks as the actual nuclear weapons Putin and his associates have hinted they might use someday in Ukraine or as would a potential meltdown at the embattled Zaporizhzhia nuclear facility in that country. Still, its use will certainly help create an even more lethal, all too literally radioactive theater of war "" and Ukraine will end up paying a price for it.

The Radioactive Lions of Babylon

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Betterview Tourism, a leading travel agency, is excited to announce a new offer for tourists visiting Dubai. Starting from today, Betterview Tourism will be providing Burj Khalifa 124th Floor tickets at an unbeatable price, allowing tourists to experience the stunning views of Dubai from the tallest building in the world. The Burj Khalifa 124th Floor operates from 8am to 23pm, and the last entry is at 21pm, giving tourists ample time 
Due to the Covid pandemic and the inability of customers to travel; Guyson International, the UKs foremost industrial finishing equipment manufacturer, has had to remotely pass off a number of machines destined for export markets. But with the cooperation of their customers and usage of the latest video conferencing software and hardware, the pass off trials were still able to successfully take place on time. So, through a combination of Microsoft 
An eight-second silence held a crowded courtroom rapt Tuesday as survivors of a mass shooting let absence speak louder than words.

Dajah Beck  one of five people shot by a gunman targeting left-wing activists gathered at Normandale Park  removed the sound of gunfire from a recording of the Feb. 19, 2022, carnage.
Joseph Johnson, the reserve police officer fatally shot on duty in Nyssa, will be remembered for his extensive service to his community.

Johnson, 43, served many public service roles over his career.

Joe was greatly admired and respected professionally, and personally, Heidi Steward, the Department of Corrections deputy director, wrote in an email to staff Sunday.

He had worked as a volunteer reserve officer with the Nyssa Police Department since 2018. The department awarded him the Outstanding Performance Award last year.

Johnson started his career as a correctional officer at Snake River Correctional Institution in 2007, according to a statement from acting Superintendent Joe Woodland. He became a behavioral health specialist with the prison in 2022.

In addition to his corrections work, Johnson taught criminal justice and psychology courses as an adjunct instructor at Treasure Valley Community College.

He also volunteered as a firefighter and contributed to his community as a private security officer and therapeutic counselor, Woodland said.

When we talk of taking action to better your community, we should look no further than to the legacy of Officer Joseph Johnson, said Sen. Lynn Findley, R-Vale, and Rep. Mark Owens, R-Crane, in a joint statement.

Johnson was responding to a disturbance call Saturday evening in Nyssa, and arrived at the scene to learn the suspect drove off. He pursued the man, identified as Rene Castro, who allegedly shot Johnson when both men pulled over at the corner of Locust Avenue and North 3rd Street.

Castro fled and wasnt found and arrested until Monday morning.

Johnson is the first officer killed in the line of duty in Malheur County since 1957, the Malheur Enterprise reported.

John Mosqueda, who worked with Johnson for 12 years at Snake River, said he was one of the most supportive people hes ever known.

Mosqueda lost his son two years ago after he was shot and killed in Boise, Idaho. He said Johnson played an important role in helping him and his family through the difficult time.

I know, with my circumstances and my family, if I ever needed a shoulder to talk to about my son, it was never a question of whether or not he would help or listen, Mosqueda said. He was always just a good solid guy. What happened to him has hit me hard.

He loved his family and his community, Mosqueda said. Johnson, whose friends called him JJ, is survived by his wife and two children.

The Nyssa Police Department is working with the Oregon Fallen Badge Foundation to provide financial assistance to Johnsons family.

He just wanted to take care of his family and make sure his community was the best it could be, Mosqueda said.

 Austin De Dios; adedios@oregonian.com; @austindedios; 503-319-9744

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Unidentified Portland police officers left derogatory remarks on an anonymous survey seeking their feedback about online training regarding how to refer to and interact with people in the LGBTQ+ community.

The statements revealed racism, ableism and white supremacy, and the need for more and better equity instruction, according to city-hired consultants.

The bureaus Equity and Inclusion Office, which works out of the police chiefs office, developed the training last year.

Dennis Rosenbaum of Rosenbaum & Associates, the firm monitoring the Police Bureaus compliance with a federal settlement agreement, said the chiefs office was alerted about the problem during the second quarter of 2022.

Staff in the chiefs office and city officials promised to address the problematic ideologies expressed in the surveys, but the consultants said in their latest report that they had yet to see a response.

Rosenbaum said the police chief and city leaders must emphasize that such ideologies have no place within the bureau, while not infringing on any members First Amendment rights.

These attitudes and perspectives can come to bear on how PPB members treat members of the Portland community as well as their fellow officers, the consultants wrote.

A police spokesperson said Chief Chuck Lovell didnt overtly address the survey remarks because he wants to foster candid feedback on training and believes the new LGBTQ+ directive will do the work intended.

The anonymous statements come in the wake of ongoing distrust between members of the LGBTQ+ community and law enforcement.

None of that surprises me, said Debra Porta, executive director of Pride Northwest.

VIDEOS ON VOCABULARY

All officers last year were required to complete online training called 2022 Vocabulary in the LGBTQIA2S+ /Queer Community as the bureau adopted a new directive titled Interacting with Members of the LGBTQIA2S+/Queer Community.

The directive identifies LGBTQIA2S+ as an acronym for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and/or Questioning, Intersex, Asexual, Two-Spirit and the countless affirmative ways in which people choose to self-identify.

It prohibits officers from engaging in harassment or discrimination based on gender identity, gender expression or sexual expression.

It says officers shall not ask anyone about their anatomy, medical history or sexual practices unless it relates directly to a criminal investigation. They should also not make assumptions about someones sexual orientation or gender identity and may need to ask someone about their gender identity to complete a police report, evaluate a bias crime or for another official purpose.

To determine someones identity, the directive says officers shall respectfully ask how the person identifies and by what pronouns, the directive says. If officers cant find out for some reason, they should use gender-neutral pronouns such as they or them, the directive says. If an officer mistakenly misgenders a person, they should apologize, move on and use correct pronouns going forward, it says.

Further, officers shall not frisk or search people or view or touch their genitals for gender identification or for any demeaning or harassing purpose.

The bureau described the new directive, which took effect in mid-March 2022, as one of many steps to help police build trust among members of the LGBTQ+ community and grow as an organization.

Lovell stressed that the bureaus relationship with the LGBTQ+ community is important, and thats why it is one of the few law enforcement agencies in the country to create and adopt such a directive. When the directive came out, he said he shared an introductory video about it with officers.

It is always our goal to build relationships and PPB is committed to treating people from the LGBTQ+ community respectfully and appropriately, he said. This can be a polarizing issue for many in our country, but PPB is doing everything we can to prepare and equip our members to have improved relationships with this community.

PRETTY EXTREME

Along with the directive, officers were to view three online training videos on what the different terms mean to LGBTQ+ people as described by them in their own words, how to interact with people to learn their gender identities and how to capture the information accurately in police reports, according to Rosenbaums firm.

The videos included perspectives offered by community members, police Equality and Inclusion staff and a Los Angeles police trainer who is a member of the LGBTQ+ community. They reminded officers that the way a person appears by the way they dress may not accurately reflect their gender identity, and its always appropriate to use the persons name or ask how they would like to be addressed. The correct pronoun to use in police reports is the one the person tells the officer to use, the video instructed.

Rosenbaum said the Equity and Inclusion Office shared concerns with the chief about derogatory remarks and signs of bias that came in anonymously in the written feedback to the training.

While Rosenbaums report didnt cite specific examples, it said that the feedback from some officers was indicative of racism, ableism and white supremacy.

Some of these comments were pretty extreme, Rosenbaum told The Oregonian/OregonLive.

He noted that he didnt know how widespread the problems might be, but we do know there are people in the organization who hold these feelings.

The bureau should make equity training a higher priority as one way to address these biases and provide the instruction in person instead of online, Rosenbaum told The Oregonian/OregonLive.

Im not a big fan of lets investigate who said what,  he said Monday. Im more into asking, What are you doing to make sure you change the culture? It has to be a higher priority.

The police chief didnt respond in the bureau to the disturbing remarks because anonymous responses serve the purpose of informing policy and training without the threat of discipline and commenting on anonymous responses would only serve the purpose of quelling respondents true responses, so would therefore be inappropriate, his spokesperson, Lt. Nathan Sheppard, wrote in an email.

With the new directive in place, the bureau is confident members treatment of community members or other Bureau members will be addressed should the need arise, Sheppard wrote.

He added that Rosenbaums report didnt say officers actually used racist language but that the anonymous comments were indicative of such language.

He argued that indicative of could literally mean anything in todays world where almost anything someone says can be offensive to someone else.

LIKE TALKING TO A BRICK WALL

Porta, the Pride Northwest executive director, said she has had past concerns about working with Portland police because they dont absorb the fact that theres something that needs to be addressed.

Its kind of like talking to a brick wall, she said.

In Portland, an advisory group made up of law enforcement and LGBTQ+ representatives called the Alliance for Safer Communities stopped meeting in January 2022 after the term of its former chair ended.

The alliance was set up originally as the Sexual Minorities Round Table in 1995 to foster an environment of mutual respect, according to its mission statement.

Porta said she had attended the alliance meetings off and on for the last 13 years but found them ineffective.

In 2017, Porta met with Mayor Ted Wheeler to ask that Portland police officers not dress in full uniform when marching in the Pride Parade, sharing the concerns of some Black and Indigenous LGBTQ+ people who felt threatened by the uniform.

Some Portland officers, including those who identified as LGBTQ+, were disturbed by the request, contending it sent a message of Hide who you are and further set back relations between police and people in the LGBTQ+ community.

The alliance had helped provide input for the online training that officers took.

We are and remain open to being part of progress, Porta said.

She said the past chair of the alliance, Avi Klepper, had approached Pride Northwest and the Q Center, a nonprofit and community center serving the LGBTQ+ communities in metropolitan Portland and southwest Washington, about working together to revive the alliance.

But she said the city needs to provide greater support for the effort, which is typically led by volunteers.

-- Maxine Bernstein

Email mbernstein@oregonian.com; 503-221-8212

Follow on Twitter @maxoregonian

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Germany has officially confirmed the transfer of the Patriot anti-aircraft missile system and ammunition to Ukraine, according to the website of the German government.

Sixteen Zetros trucks and two border guard vehicles were also transferred.

It is noted that the total value of individual licenses issued by the federal government for the export of military goods in the period from January 1, 2022 to April 17, 2023, is EUR 2.7 billion.
Kirkland Warren, the 27-year-old Vancouver man accused of killing his ex-girlfriend and her young daughter last month, pleaded not guilty to aggravated murder charges Monday morning during his arraignment in Clark County Superior Court.

Warren appeared by video from Clark County Jail and spoke only to confirm his plea.

The courtroom was filled with friends and family of Meshay Melendez, the 27-year-old Vancouver woman whose body was found March 22 next to a creek in Washougal, along with that of her 7-year-old daughter Layla Stewart. Theyd been missing since March 12. The medical examiner determined both died from gunshot wounds to the head.

Judge Suzan L. Clark denied the defenses request to set a bail amount and ordered Warren to continue to be held in custody.

Warren faces one count of second-degree unlawful possession of a firearm in addition to the two counts of aggravated murder. The latter charges carry a sentence of life without the possibility of parole upon conviction.

A trial readiness hearing is scheduled for June 2 and the criminal trial is slated to begin June 5.

When Melendez and Stewart went missing, Warren was named a person of interest because he was the last person seen with them, and also because, at that time, he was out on bail  without GPS monitoring  for a domestic-violence case in which he was accused of shooting at Melendez apartment and threatening her.

In phone calls Warren made to Melendez from jail a little more than a week before she disappeared, Warren blamed Melendez for his arrest and urged her to figure out how to get the domestic-violence charges dropped, according to court documents.

Court records also show that Vancouver detectives used Warrens cellphone to piece together his movements in the days after Melendez and her daughter disappeared.

Investigators tracked Warrens cellphone location the night of March 13 to an area along Southeast Wooding Road, east of Sunset View Road, where Melendez and Stewarts bodies were discovered by a passerby nine days later, according to a probable cause affidavit.

On March 23, investigators interviewing Warren at the Clark County Jail asked him if he thought authorities had found Melendez and Stewart.

Warren responded, I dont know, Vancouver Police Detective Dustin Goudschaal wrote in the affidavit.

Warren then added: I hope not.

When detectives showed Warren an aerial photograph of the location where Melendez and Stewart had been discovered, Warren ended the interview and asked for an attorney.

The gunshot wound Melendez sustained had evidence of stippling, or unburned powder and debris, meaning she was shot at close range, which is consistent with blood police found in the passenger seat of Warrens Dodge Charger, Goudschaal wrote in the affidavit.

Warren also faces a first-degree murder charge in Arkansas in the homicide of 57-year-old Curtis Urquhart, who was shot in the head and found in a ditch on Dec. 11, 2017. An Arkansas judge has issued a fugitive warrant for his arrest.

 Savannah Eadens; seadens@oregonian.com; 503-221-6651; @savannaheadens
Our chilly spring continues this week, with more snow headed for the Cascade Mountains, promising to add to Oregons largest snowpack in years.

Snow is expected Monday into Tuesday morning, according to the National Weather Service, which issued a winter weather advisory Monday afternoon for the Cascade Mountains from Santiam Pass to the Columbia River.

Up to a foot of snow is expected at the mountain peaks, the advisory said, with four to eight inches forecast above 4,000 feet. Winds are expected to gust as high as 40 mph. Forecasters warned that snowfall may vary widely from place to place.

The fresh snow will feed Oregons already robust snowpack, which currently stands at 189% of normal statewide, according to data released Monday by the Natural Resources Conservation Service. Broken down by region, the statistics include eye-popping numbers like 300% of normal in the Blue Mountains and 246% of normal in the Owyhee Basin of southeastern Oregon.

A map released by the Natural Resources Conservation Service shows Oregon snowpack levels as of April 17, 2023.

Those numbers represent the snow water equivalent, or the amount of water thats stored in snowpack. The percentages compare the current numbers to normal conditions, which in this case is the average from 1991 to 2020.

All that snow in Oregon is good news for Oregonians  and not just because its extending ski season. Matt Warbritton, a hydrologist for the NRCS in Oregon, said the extra snowpack aids areas still struggling with drought, and could even help delay the start of fire season, provided warmer spring temperatures dont melt it all too quickly.

The spring snowstorm Monday night will be a boon to skiers but a potential nightmare for drivers attempting to cross the Cascades. The National Weather Service warned that blowing snow could result in low visibility on mountain passes, and urged drivers to be prepared for winter weather and go slowly and cautiously through the storm.

 Jamie Hale

503-294-4077; jhale@oregonian.com; @HaleJamesB

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More than 8,500 civilians die in Ukraine since start of Russias fullscale invasion  UN

Since the beginning of the fullscale invasion of the Russian aggressor in Ukraine, 8,534 civilians have been killed, 14,370 have been injured, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has reported.

From 24 February 2022, which marked the start of the large-scale armed attack by the Russian Federation, to 17 April 2023, the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) recorded 22,904 civilian casualties in the country: 8,534 killed and 14,370 injured, it is said in a message published on the website on Tuesday.

OHCHR believes that the actual figures are considerably higher, as the receipt of information from some locations where intense hostilities have been going on has been delayed and many reports are still pending corroboration, the message reads.

This concerns, for example, Mariupol (Donetsk region), Lysychansk, Popasna, and Severodonetsk (Luhansk region), where there are allegations of numerous civilian casualties.

According to the UN, 6,634 people died in the territories controlled by the legitimate authorities of Ukraine. Some 1,900 civilians were killed in the occupied territories.

From April 1 to April 17, 2023, OHCHR recorded 324 civilian casualties in Ukraine: 85 killed (41 men, 21 women, 2 boys, 1 girl, as well as 20 adults whose sex is not yet known); and 239 injured (80 men, 54 women, 3 boys, 2 girls, as well as 100 adults whose sex is not yet known).

This included: 69 killed and 206 injured in 74 settlements in territory controlled by the Government when casualties occurred (85 percent of the total); and 16 killed and 33 injured in 9 settlements in territory occupied by the Russian Federation when casualties occurred (15 percent of the total).

In a previous report on April 10, the UN reported on 8,490 civilians killed.
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HOUSTON (AP)  A second teenager has been charged with kidnapping several migrants and allegedly holding them captive for several days at a Houston hotel before they were rescued by FBI agents during a confrontation that ended with the fatal shooting of another suspect, authorities said Monday.

Demarcus Celestine, 17, was charged on Saturday with three counts of aggravated kidnapping, according to court records.

His arrest was made public on Monday by a tweet from the FBIs Houston office, which said Celestine had been arrested by FBI agents and the Harris County Sheriffs Office in Houston.

Celestine, who appeared in court Monday, remained jailed on bonds totaling $300,000.

An attorney for Celestine didnt immediately return a call or an email seeking comment.

Authorities allege the kidnapping began March 18 in neighboring Waller County when three migrants who had been traveling on Interstate 10 were stopped and forced from a vehicle.

The migrants driver might have called 911 and informed the Waller County Sheriffs Office about the kidnapping, authorities said. The sheriffs office later worked with the FBI to find the migrants.

Prosecutors allege Celestine took the migrants  two women and one man  at gunpoint to the north Houston hotel, where he held (them) under threat of death by firearm, sending messages to family members to bring money in exchange for their release, according to court records.

Celestine is accused, along with two other suspects, of using physical violence against the migrants as they were held for several days.

A person familiar with the matter previously told The Associated Press that the kidnappers were paid after making demands for money, but then asked for more money. The person, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the case publicly, also said the kidnappers at one point sent the family of one of the migrants, all of whom had crossed into the U.S. illegally from Mexico, a video showing them beating an older man.

On March 23, five days after the migrants were abducted, FBI agents rescued the migrants from the hotel. One of the suspects, later identified as Alberto Montes II, 20, was fatally shot. Montes' parents told KTRK earlier this month they are still seeking answers from authorities about why their son was fatally shot. The FBIs investigation of the shooting remains ongoing, said agency spokesperson Connor Hagan.

Another suspect, Josiah Jackson, 17, has been charged with two counts of aggravated kidnapping. Jackson remained jailed on bonds totaling $200,000.

___

Follow Juan A. Lozano on Twitter at https://twitter.com/juanlozano70.

___

Associated Press reporter Jake Bleiberg contributed to this report from Dallas.
The newest graduates of Leadership Midland saw a need at the Floyd Elementary School nature trail and put a plan into action.

Floyd Elementary, along with Bullock Creek Elementary, uses a nature-based curriculum for students in grades K-2.

And each year's Leadership Midland cohort chooses a project to undertake to benefit the Midland community.

Rob Taylor, one of the 35 members of the 2022 Leadership Midland cohort "No Props," said it became clear to his group during their three-day class in October that youths in the Midland area have a lot of needs.

This particular program at Floyd eventually became the consensus choice for the class project.

"We thought, how could our impact be maximized with the 35 of us?" Taylor said. "We were really drawn to (Floyd) because of the need of that area."

Taylor explained that the class organized committees to oversee the various aspects of the project: clearing trees, repainting sidewalks, weeding flowerbeds, building easels and creating sensory signs.

The project involves both financial equity and sweat equity. Class members were able to generate donations of $12,300 from their employers, which became $24,600 through a matching grant. The donations came from Corteva Agriscience, Delta College, Dow Credit Union, International Flavors & Fragrances, Inc., Leadership Midland Alumni Association, McLaren Bay Region, Midland Cogeneration Venture, Members First Credit Union, Robert Boerner Insurance, Saginaw Valley State University, SYM Financial Advisors and Three Rivers Corporation.

For the first organized work day, on March 11, a group of nine people, using chainsaws and a wood chipper, cut up and cleared more than 30 dead trees from the trail, cleared away brush, and used the fallen trees to create nine wooden benches for use by students.

The second work day, coming up on April 22 at Floyd Elementary, will include the entire Leadership Midland cohort. They will place the wooden benches into the ground, clean up the trail and spread wood chips on it, remove weeds around the pond adjacent to the trail, and cut up some more fallen trees.

The work of the project will continue beyond this week, Taylor explained, with Bullock Creek Elementary needing similar help at its nature area and the possible expansion of the nature curriculum into grades 3-5.

"The plan is to keep this project going through the next few foreseeable years," Taylor said.

"To see where we started as a group, as 35 strangers, to what we have now raised for the school, we have seen the ripple effect for how much it means to the school. And Im just really proud of everybody on our team because everybody has participated," Taylor said.

Floyd Elementary Principal Jamie Moses and Bullock Creek School District Superintendent Shawn Hale expressed their appreciation for the project.

"We are so pleased that community members are learning more and more about our nature program," Moses said. "(I appreciate) that there's an interest in whats happening with our nature program and that were able to share it with more people."

"This is a great group of volunteers. I'm so excited that they're helping us out," Hale said.
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Midland County Commission showed its opposition to the proposed expansion of Camp Grayling following a presentation on the project during its meeting Tuesday morning in the County Services Building.

Retired Lt. Col. Mike McNamara, who previously served as Deputy Post Commander at Camp Grayling, gave a special presentation to the commission in opposition to the expansion, which would add approximately 162,000 acres (253 square miles) to the existing 148,000-acre (231 square miles) camp.

Camp Grayling is already the largest National Guard training facility in the United States. The expansion would more than double the size of the camp.

McNamara explained that he is opposing the expansion because he feels the camp already has enough land. He has traveled to various local governments in the Thumb and Mid-Michigan areas to get them on board with the opposition.

McNamara emphasized that he is an advocate for Camp Grayling and supports soldiers in the National Guard and the military as a whole.

But this expansion isnt about taking care of or training the soldiers, he said.

Instead, he argued that the expansion would be used for weapon testing, development and research. Part of the land is already leased to those who want to test weapons, which McNamara said should indicate there is already enough land.

The expansion would lease state public lands surrounding the camp from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. These lands would extend as far south as Houghton Lake, but would not include any land in Midland County.

McNamara said the expansion could impact Midland County residents, however, as areas like Roscommon and Houghton Lake are popular places for Midlanders to go on vacation, hunting and fishing trips and more.

Despite the proposed expansion, the DNR stated in a press release that ORVs would still have access to the state lands. Access to the Au Sable and Manistee rivers would remain as well.

There are no anticipated environmental impacts from the proposal, the press release said.

Public comment closed on the proposal on Feb. 8. Acting DNR Director Shannon Lott had not made a decision on the expansion as of April 18.

If I thought this would save one soldier's life, I'd be all for it, McNamara said. But it's not for the soldiers.

As a special presentation to the county commission, this did not come with a resolution. However, Chairman Mark Bone momentarily stepped down in order to give a public comment to state that he is in opposition to the expansion and does not want to wait any longer for a decision to be made.

While he could not add a resolution regarding the expansion himself, Bone said one of his fellow commissioners could add it as new business at the end of the meeting. Commissioner Jeanette Snyder proposed adding a resolution showing the commissions opposition to the expansion as new business, which was supported by Commissioner Gaye Terwillegar.

Terwillegar said she is opposed to the expansion because her family goes hunting and fishing in the Grayling area.

This is a personal thing, she said. This is for my husband and our family.

However, Commissioner Eric Dorrien was opposed to having a resolution such as this because county governments have no say in whether the expansion is approved or not.

I do really oppose these measures that are involving ourselves in business that we shouldn't be, Dorrien said.

The resolution to show opposition to the Camp Grayling expansion was passed 6-0, with Commissioner Alaynah Smith absent from the meeting. Dorrien initially chose to abstain, but was told he could only do so if he had a personal conflict, so he voted yes.

This is the last time I do this, he said before giving his vote.

High Hazard Dam in Mitigation Plan

A High Hazard Dam Appendix from the Four Lakes Task Force (FLTF) was added to the 2018 Midland County Hazard Mitigation Plan in Tuesday's meeting.

David Rothman, vice president of the FLTF, explained that the appendix is a requirement in order to partake in a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) grant program.

The commission approved the appendix and agreed to send communication to FEMA stating that the appendix was approved. Once FEMA receives that communication, it can release $400,000 to the FLTF for dam stabilization.

Juvenile Care Center renamed

The commission also approved a resolution to change the name of the the Midland County Juvenile Care Center to Midland County Juvenile Justice Center, and to change the name of Youth Development Worker to Juvenile Specialist.

Director of the Juvenile Care Center Ryan Griffus explained that the center has had the same name for 25 years, but the landscape of juvenile justice has changed.

Griffus said the building and its programs have changed over time to meet different needs, and that the names should reflect that change.

(The JCC) is different from any other facility in the state of Michigan, he said. When kids go into that facility, they come out different, and hopefully that difference sustains over time.

Other business

 The commission approved an affiliation with Central Michigan University that would allow students to intern at Midland County Mosquito Control. The agreement runs from 2023 to 2030.

 The Mid-Michigan Community Action Agency Memorandum of Understanding was passed for services and referrals to the Early Childhood Services Program to run through July 2025.

 A Grant Administration Agreement between the county and the Midland Area Community Foundation was passed. Under the agreement, the foundation will administer a grant program utilizing $1.4 million of the countys American Rescue Plan Act funds to assist nonprofit corporations struggling to perform their mission as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 A request from the county drain commissioner for $1.6 million was approved to fund a Mount Haley No. 15 Drain project.

 The 2024 county budget calendar and the 2023 State Tax Commission report were approved.

 The new county finance director was approved to start above the starting salary rate. The director will start at grade 15, step 2.

 April was proclaimed National County Government Month and May was proclaimed Neurofibromatosis Awareness Month.

 James Peck was appointed to the Region VII Area Agency on Aging Advisory Council as the Midland County representative. Geoff Malicoat was appointed to the Region VII Board of Directors.

 The commission approved an updated letter of interest for the Tittabawassee River Watershed Flood Risk Management Study in partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.


When Kaylin Gillis and her friends took a wrong turn into an upstate New York driveway last weekend, they couldn't have known the property was owned by a man who, according to a neighbor, had grown increasingly bitter over the years at people driving onto his land by mistake.

This time, the error proved fatal. The Hebron landowner, Kevin Monahan, opened fire Saturday night, killing 20-year-old Gillis as she and her friends drove away after turning around in the long dirt driveway, Washington County Sheriff Jeffrey Murphy said.

Monahan, 65, was arrested on a second-degree murder charge and remains detained pending a bond hearing.

One of his neighbors, Adam Matthews, who runs an auto repair shop in nearby Salem, said Monahan had become more and more upset in recent years at people making wrong turns into his driveway.

I'm just a bit overwhelmed, Matthews said in a phone interview with The Associated Press on Tuesday after speaking to other news outlets. "It is a tragic event.

Murphy said Gillis and her friends got lost while going to another friend's nearby house. They were driving two cars and a motorcycle when they turned into Monahan's driveway. As they realized the mistake and turned around, Monahan fired two gunshots at them as they drove away, Murphy said.

One of the bullets struck the rear of the car Gillis was in and hit her, causing a fatal injury, Murphy said.

Gillis' father, Andrew Gillis, said in a Facebook post Tuesday that his family is devastated.

Kaylin was a kind, beautiful soul and a ray of light to anyone who was lucky enough to know her, the post said. "She was just beginning to find her way in the world with kindness, humor, and love. ... She was taken from us far too soon."

Andrew Gillis wrote that his daughter was an honors student and talented artist who was looking forward to attending college in Florida with dreams of becoming a marine biologist.

Our family will never be the same but we will be guided by Kaylins positivity, optimism, and joy as we learn to live with her loss, he wrote.

Monahan's lawyer, meanwhile, spoke publicly for the first time Tuesday, calling the sheriff's version of the events a superficial, simplistic account of what actually happened.

The attorney, Kurt Mausert, declined to discuss details of the shooting, citing the pending criminal case.

I believe we have series of mistakes that led to a tragedy," he said in a phone interview. "But I dont believe my client is a villain. But not every case with a tragedy has a villain, and I think this is one of them.

The sheriff described Monahan as uncooperative, saying he initially refused to come out of the house before peacefully surrendering after about an hour.

Mausert disputed there was any standoff, saying he was on the phone with his client as law enforcement officers were at Monahan's door. He said Monahan was talking to police outside his door and officials would not say why they were there and did not have an arrest warrant. The lawyer said Monahan was exercising his right to remain silent when he declined to talk to police about what happened.

When police officials told the lawyer over the phone that someone had died, Mausert said he helped arrange the peaceful surrender.

They told me there was a fatality, then it started to make sense to me, he said. At that point, its dangerous for everybody. My goal at that point was to facilitate my client turning himself in to the police safely.

As Gillis' family mourned Tuesday, officials at the school system she attended held a news conference to express their sadness about her death. Gillis graduated in 2021 from Schuylerville High School, about 20 miles (32 kilometers) from Monahan's home in Hebron. Her two younger sisters are in grades seven and nine in Schuylerville.

We have very very close-knit community, said Katie Elsworth, the middle school principal. And we say to them upon graduation that we will always be your school family. We will always be here to support you and take care of you and love you. And when something happens to one of students who graduated, it hurts our hearts just as much as when theyre here.

Schuylerville High School Principal James Ducharme said Gillis had an infectious smile.

Her smile would light up a room, he said. Her personality would light up any classroom that she walked into or any club activity that she participated in.

School officials said Gillis was on the competition cheerleading team in high school for two seasons, took part in Future Farmers of America programs and was an avid artist.

A celebration of Gillis' life was scheduled for Friday in Schuylerville.
Photo provided by Midland County Jail

A 43-year-old woman from the community of Lake in Clare County pleaded guilty to drugs and resisting arrest Thursday and was sentenced to three years probation, some of which will be served at Saginaws inpatient Tri-Cap.

Jennifer Myers was arrested Aug. 12 in connection with methamphetamine possession and resisting Midland County Sheriff deputies. Myers has been lodged in the Midland County Jail since her arrest and is awaiting a bed opening at Tri-Cap. As of Thursday, she had served 245 days in jail.
Photo provided/Michigan State Police

As part of an internal review process, Michigan State Police First Lt. Eric Wilber has been named new Tri-City Post commander in Freeland.

Former post commander Todd Parsons and one of his assistants, Jasen Sack, have been reassigned within the state police, said MSP Lt. Kim Vetter.
The following list includes recent reports from the Midland County Sheriffs Office and the Midland Police Department. Compiled by reporter Tereasa Nims.

Monday, April 17

11:42 p.m. - Deputies stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation. The 44-year-old male driver from Saginaw was found to have an out-of-county warrant. The man was taken into custody and turned over to the other agency.

11:13 p.m. - A deputy met with an Alma police officer who had arrested an 18-year-old Porter Township man for a warrant out of Midland County. The deputy transported the man to the Midland County Jail without incident.

9:21 p.m. - A deputy stood by while a woman obtained her property from her ex-boyfriend's house. The property was retrieved peacefully.

9:02 p.m. - Deputies were dispatched to a Greendale Township residence for a well-being check on a 21-year-old man. He was found to be ok.

7:30 p.m. - Deputies were dispatched to an Edenville Township apartment complex for a dispute between neighbors. Both parties were contacted and advised of their options.

7:20 p.m. - Deputies were dispatched to assist Michigan State Police with a Greendale Township domestic violence complaint. Deputies were then called off while en route by the trooper on scene.

6:47 p.m. - Police responded to the 1500 block of Washington Street for a verbal domestic dispute.

More Information Deputies called to a family dispute in Edenville Township because two juveniles refused to go to school See More Collapse

4:54 p.m. - An animal control deputy received a call regarding a dog running loose from a residence in Larkin Township. Contact was made with the dog owner. A verbal warning was issued.

3:57 p.m. - An animal control deputy received a call regarding a possible stray dog near Indian and George streets in Midland. The dog was returned to its home on George Street prior to the deputy arriving.

1:05 p.m. - A deputy was dispatched to a Jerome Township church regarding an open door at the rear of the building. The deputy checked the building and everything appeared to be OK. No sign of forced entry or criminal activity was observed. The deputy locked and secured the door.

11:12 a.m. - A unknown SUV driver took $71.04 in gas from a Jerome Township station without paying for it. No plate or driver description was obtained.

9:01 a.m. - Deputies were dispatched to an Edenville Township residence regarding a family dispute over two juveniles who were refusing to go to school. All parties were separated, and the juveniles were transported to school by their grandmother.

2:05 a.m. - Police made a warrant arrest around Buttles and Haley streets.

12:09 a.m. - Deputies conducted a traffic stop at a Lincoln Township location and issued a citation to the 20-year-old female driver. A 25-year-old male passenger was subsequently arrested on two misdemeanor warrants. The man was transported and lodged at Midland County Jail without incident.
Vice-president IFC: We are trying to really escalate, scale up our presence, our investments in Ukraine

Exclusive interview with Alfonso Garcia Mora, IFCs Vice President for Europe, and Latin America and the Caribbean, to the Interfax-Ukraine news agency

Text: Dmytro Koshovyy

-- The war in Ukraine is dragging on. The basic scenario of the program with the IMF assumes its winding down in the middle of 2024, and the negative one  at the end of 2025. How does this affect IFC's plans for Ukraine?

-- There are two stages in terms of what we are doing in Ukraine. What we are doing today is what we call "keeping the lights on", which means helping specific priority sectors by providing working capital for their short-term needs. We also provide support for long-term investments, for example to rebuild destroyed infrastructure.

The longer the invasion lasts, the longer we will need to continue focusing on this first phase and the later we will be able to move on to the reconstruction phase. So I think that's the key thing. This wont affect our commitment or negatively impact investment volumes. Of course, the moment the invasion is over, there will be a much bigger influx of capital into the country. But we will continue supporting the country even if it takes until 2025.

-- IFC launched a $2 billion response package to support the Ukrainian private sector in mid-December. What are the first results?

-- This is a package that will allow us to invest $2 billion in the next 18 months: $1 billion from IFCs own account alongside $1 billion in guarantees and concessional finance from international donors. We are in the process of receiving increased support from international donors, which will allow us to do even more. But, as of now, we're using our own funds. We have already significantly increased our presence, our investments without any guarantees or international support, in trade finance, the agribusiness sector, and in the high-tech sector. And we are now exploring other potential investments in the agribusiness sector, which we believe will be critical, and helping the banking sector to provide more financing services.

-- World Bank Group President David Malpass said at the 3-d Ukrainian ministerial roundtable that the recovery reconstruction and reform Trust Fund (URTF) has been established and that the bank intends to ramp this up to $2 billion to help IFC mobilize an additional $1-2 billion from private partners. Could you tell us more about these plans?

-- URTF is the trust fund the World Bank Trust established to support the public sector. What we are doing is to mobilize financial support from donors so we can channel it to the private sector. Normally, how it works is, that we can leverage each dollar a donor contributes up to four times, because we can mobilize and bring on board other investors that otherwise wouldnt have.

So, this is the leverage that Mr. Malpass mentioned yesterday and that we think is fundamental in the current situation.

Now, how can we maximize our impact with limited donor financing? We believe that moving to private sector support is the right way to go. The public sector absolutely needs continued support, but we also need to increase the concessional finance and guarantees needed to support private sector investments.

IFC usually doesnt work with SOEs or only in specific circumstances. We work directly with the private sector. So that's why, in a way, donors need to decide how to allocate resources between the private and public sector.

-- In this context, Mr Malpass also mentioned MIGA. What synergy could be there between IFC and MIGA? Who else is ready to insure the risks of investments in Ukraine?

-- MIGA is the insurance part of the World Bank and provides guarantees. What MIGA has done is to design a war risk insurance instrument which aims to help foreign investors by mitigating the risks resulting from the war.

-- Ukraine will see a significantly reduced grain harvest in 2023. The recent events around the Black Sea Grain Initiative and the protests of farmers in countries neighbouring Ukraine, show the complexity of the situation. What solutions can IFC offer? Is the corporation ready to support agricultural processing projects in Ukraine?

-- I don't know exactly what we can do there. I know we are supporting the agribusiness sector in their efforts to export their harvest.

(his colleague says) So there are three things that we are considering and financing. We are looking into how we can support agri-producers and big agri-traders who source from the farmers and help that production reach export markets. We also work with banks outside of Ukraine to provide trade guarantees for exports of Ukrainian grain to these countries. And we are also now in discussions with several banks to provide working capital to farmers by opening lending lines.

-- Last summer you spoke about IFC's plans to help with housing construction, to reorient the Energy Efficiency Fund for these purposes. A separate residential construction project within the framework of URTF was discussed at the negotiations between the Minister of Finance of Ukraine and the World Bank during the Spring Meetings. What is IFC planning to do in this direction this year?

-- There is an existing project of EUR 50 million that we have reshaped. The projects focus originally was on energy efficiency, but a reorientation allows us to use these funds to help families reconstruct or rehabilitate houses that have been destroyed. The focus is not on supporting new residential construction but on funding the reconstruction of damaged dwellings.

- Municipalities. In the summer, you pointed out that this is also one of IFCs priorities in its work in Ukraine. What has already been done and what are the future plans in this direction.

-- We are in discussions with Lviv to continue renovating municipal buildings. They are good discussions. I think that this will probably be one of the entry points that we will explore. You know that we have worked with Mariupol in the past. When it comes to working with municipalities, we lend without a sovereign guarantee, which is very useful, especially in the case of Ukraine and its lack of fiscal space. However, the guarantees that international donors can provide will be needed.

-- Lviv is located in western Ukraine. Perhaps we are ready to move further to the east, which has suffered more from the war. Today it is not Kherson or Kharkiv, but, perhaps, Mykolaiv, Dnipro.

-- We need to know the purpose of our work in a city. To invest in something concrete, we will need to define the objective of the investment and then decide if it makes sense or not, because you don't want to start a project today if it is at risk of being destroyed tomorrow. But I believe that there will be a lot of potential opportunities and needs for reconstruction at the municipal level.

We will really need to think carefully about how to enter into investments on a municipal level, because the needs will be many and the government wont be able to provide the finance or reconstruction needed on that level, predominantly in the east.

-- Summing up. Mr Malpass announced $150 million in IFC disbursements to Ukraine since the beginning of the war. What could that amount be at the end of this year?

-- We have done more. In the next 3-4 months, we have a pipeline of about $400 million. As we said yesterday, we are trying to really escalate, scale up our presence, our investments. I think that we can be at $500 million in the next few months, with over $200 million plus what we have currently in the pipeline. Of course, there are many things that need to happen in order to achieve this.

-- Last question. What are you expecting from the Ukraine recovery conference in London in June? What's the next step in Ukraines recovery process?

-- I will be there. You know, the World Bank has done an assessment of the countrys needs and how they should be prioritized and identified that $411 billion are needed, with $14 billion needed in the short term. So I see that we have a road map now.

-- From the Lugano recovery principles in 2022 to a London recovery road map?

-- Exactly. I hope that there will be an alignment of how to pledge financing and funds, because I really think that we need to redirect financing to those areas and through those institutions that can leverage contributions and multiply their impact now. And I think that IFC can play a big role.
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KARUIZAWA, Japan (AP)  Top diplomats from the Group of Seven wealthy democracies vowed a unified front against Chinese threats to Taiwan and Russia's war of aggression in Ukraine, saying at the close of their meetings Tuesday that they were committed to boosting and enforcing tough sanctions against Moscow.

The G-7 communique laying out their commitments also included strong words over an unprecedented run of North Korean missile tests. But it was China's growing assertiveness in Asia and Russia's invasion of Ukraine that highlighted the three-day summit hosted by Japan in this hot springs resort town.

There can be no impunity for war crimes and other atrocities such as Russias attacks against civilians and critical civilian infrastructure, the ministers said.

We remain committed to intensifying sanctions against Russia, coordinating and fully enforcing them, the communique said, and would support for as long as it takes" Ukraine as it defends itself.

The foreign ministers' communique was prepared as a template for global leaders to use at a G-7 summit that will be held in Hiroshima next month, and included language about Iran, Myanmar, Afghanistan, nuclear proliferation and other grave threats.

But two crises stood out: Chinas increasing threats against, and military maneuvers around, Taiwan, the self-governing democracy that Beijing claims as its own, and Russias invasion of Ukraine. Russias current offensive is largely stalled and Ukraine is preparing a counteroffensive, but theres widespread global worry about the Russian leaders repeated threats to use tactical nuclear weapons.

Russias irresponsible nuclear rhetoric and its threat to deploy nuclear weapons in Belarus are unacceptable, the ministers said.

The G-7 envoys from Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Canada, Italy and the European Union have underlined that their meeting in Karuizawa marks a crucial moment in the worlds response to Russian and Chinese aggression, two crises that are seen as challenges to the post-World War II rules-based international order. Global efforts to confront the matters at the United Nations have been stymied by Chinese and Russian intransigence on the Security Council.

Leaders and foreign ministers of G-7 countries, most recently France and Germany, have recently concluded visits to China, and there is growing worry after China recently sent planes and ships to simulate an encirclement of Taiwan. Beijing has also been rapidly adding nuclear warheads, taking a tougher line on its claim to the South China Sea and painting a scenario of impending confrontation.

The G-7 ministers said that peace and stability between China and Taiwan in the Taiwan Strait is an indispensable element in security and prosperity in the international community, and they called for the peaceful resolution of cross-Strait issues.

On Taiwan, there is clear unanimity in the approach we are taking, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters of his talks with other ministers in Karuizawa.

"What I heard was a remarkable convergence on concerns related to (China) and what were doing to address those concerns, he said.

On stalled discussions with the Chinese, Blinken said the United States placed a premium on keeping communications channels open as President Joe Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping agreed to last year.

My expectation would be that we will be able to move forward on that, but it does require China to make clear its own intentions in doing that, Blinken said.

The communique also urged China to abstain from threats, coercion, intimidation or the use of force. We remain seriously concerned about the situation in the East and South China Seas. ... There is no legal basis for Chinas expansive maritime claims in the South China Sea, and we oppose Chinas militarization activities in the region.

In Beijing, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Wenbin said the G-7 had grossly interfered in China's internal affairs and maliciously slandered and smeared China.

He said the communique is full of arrogance, prejudice and sinister intentions against China. We strongly oppose and deplore this and have lodged solemn complaints with the Japanese side, the host country of the meeting.

Despite indications, notably comments from French President Emmanuel Macron, that the G-7 is split over China, U.S. officials said in Karuizawa that there is a shared worry among G-7 nations over Chinas actions, and a desire to continue a coordinated approach on working with Beijing even as nations confront Chinese coercion and attempts to water down or circumvent international rules regarding trade and commerce.

Japans worry about China can be seen it its efforts to make a major break from its self-defense-only post-World War II principles, which include work to acquire preemptive strike capabilities and cruise missiles.

For the first time as the G-7, we noted in a statement our commitment to a rules-based, free and open international order and our strong objection to unilateral attempts to change the status-quo anywhere in the world," Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi told reporters.

He said that Japan, as the only G-7 member in Asia, brought a focus to the Indo-Pacific region.

Besides China, a key worry is North Korea, which since the beginning of last year has test-fired around 100 missiles, including intercontinental ballistic missiles that showed the potential of reaching the U.S. mainland and a variety of other shorter-range weapons that threaten South Korea and Japan.

We demand North Korea refrain from any other destabilizing or provocative actions, including any further nuclear tests or launches that use ballistic missile technology, the communique said, adding that future actions must be met with a swift, united and robust international response, including further significant measures to be taken by the UN Security Council.

It is critical that sanctions be fully and scrupulously implemented by all states and remain in place for as long as North Koreas WMD (weapons of mass destruction) and ballistic missile programs exist, the ministers said.

___

Yamaguchi reported from Tokyo.
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ROME (AP)  Bogged down by leftist opposition amendments, Italy's Senate on Tuesday delayed the start of a debate on the right-wing government's contested immigration crackdown, while a minister's warning to Italians about ethnic substitution" triggered anger.

Agriculture and Food Sovereignty Minister Francesco Lollobrigida, made the controversial comment in a speech at a labor union gathering, Lollobrigida, who hails from Premier Giorgia Meloni's Brothers of Italy, a party with neo-fascist roots, warned Italians against surrendering to the idea that they have fewer children and substitute themselves with someone else.

Lollobrigidas words are disgusting, said lawmaker Elly Schlein who leads the Democratic Party, Parliaments largest opposition force. She said the comments evoke the notion of white supremacy and hark back to the 1930s, when Benito Mussolinis Fascist regime rewarded Italians who had large families.

Meloni campaigned for election as Italy's first far-right premier last fall on a platform that included a pledge to help Italians have children. The country has one of the worlds lowest birth rates, and a significant percentage of births are now registered to non native-born Italians. In Italy's northern Emilia-Romagna region, for instance, 24% of births occur in families where both parents are migrants, according to the national statistics agency.

With the new proposed legislation, Meloni and her right-wing coalition government allies want to eliminate or vastly limit the special protection" status Italian authorities have granted to thousands of asylum-seekers who are unlikely to have their applications approved. Holders of that status can stay in Italy for two years and legally work during that time.

But with the Democratic Party presenting hundreds of amendments, the Senate was forced to delay the start of debate till Wednesday. The lower Chamber of Deputies will take up the proposed crackdown after Senate passage. Meloni's coalition has a comfortable majority in both chambers of Parliament.

Successive Italian governments have pressed their EU partners for years, largely in vain, to take in many of the hundreds of thousands of asylum-seekers who reach Italy's Mediterranean shores. Most risk the dangerous, expensive sea voyage in hopes of finding family or work in northern Europe, but EU rules require them to apply for asylum in the country where they landed.

During a state visit to Poland this week, Italian President Sergio Mattarella, whose post is above the political fray, championed solidarity. No state, alone, can deal with such an epochal problem,'' he said in a speech. But the European Union can do it with coordinated and well-organized action."

And this ... calls for a new policy of immigration and asylum within the Union, overcoming old rules that by now are prehistoric," Mattarella said in his blunt appeal.

Meloni unveiled the first stage of her government's approach to stemming unauthorized migration last month, when she led a Cabinet meeting in a Calabrian beach town near where dozens of migrants died in the shipwreck of a smugglers' boat.

The Cabinet decreed a new crime  people smuggling that results in the death of migrants  punishable by up to 30 years in prison.

At least 91 people died  and 80 people survived  in the shipwreck just off Cutro's beach, prompting questions over whether Italian rescue vessels should have gone to the aid of the boat as it was buffeted by high waves.

"The signal that we wanted to give right away was that the smugglers can't do what they want and that in Italy you arrive in a legal way,'' Meloni's minister for parliamentary relations, Luca Ciriani, said in an interview with Corriere della Sera newspaper published Tuesday.

But further measures were needed, he said, contending that Italy's current rules on migrants were more permissive than those of other EU countries. Here, thanks to humanitarian protection, whoever should be expelled finds the way to stay," the minister was quoted as saying.

Among those demonstrating a few blocks from the Senate for the special protection status to stay was Mamadou Kouassi, a migrant from Ivory Coast. He recounted how he arrived in Italy after members of the Italian coast guard rescued him at sea in 2005.

We live in this country, and we want residency permits. We want to work and participate in the economy and development of this country,'' he said.

Meloni's government already has made it more challenging for charity rescue boats to operate in the central Mediterranean. Such boats now are ordered to disembark their rescued passengers at mainland ports far from the area of the sea that has been most deadly for migrants.

___

AP Videojournalist Gianfranco Stara contributed to this report.

___

Follow APs coverage of global migration at https://apnews.com/hub/migration
Russias Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov traveled to the Brazilian capital Monday and expressed gratitude for Brazils push for an end to hosilities in Ukraine  even as that same effort has irked both Kyiv and the West
Cotonou Benin (PANA) - Benin will ban the importation of frozen eggs and chicken to boost its local production, the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries said on Tuesday
Tripoli, Libya (PANA)- The Libyan Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Najla Al-Mangouch, participated in the virtual meeting of the African Union (AU) Peace and Security Council held on Tuesday via the Zoom platform on the issue of national reconciliation in Libya
The International Finance Corporation (IFC), part of the World Bank Group, has invested $208 million in Ukraine since the beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion, and in the next few months the amount of investments may increase to $500 million, said IFC Vice President for Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean Alfonso Garcia Mora.

"We are trying to really escalate, scale up our presence, our investments. I think that we can be at $500 million in the next few months, with over $200 million plus what we have currently in the pipeline," he said in an interview with Interfax-Ukraine.

"In the next 3-4 months, we have a pipeline of about $400 million. Itwill depend on the support from donors," he said.

"IFC launched a $2 billion response package to support the Ukrainian private sector in mid-December. This is a package that will allow us to invest $2 billion in the next 18 months: $1 billion from IFCs own account alongside $1 billion in guarantees and concessional finance from international donors. We are in the process of receiving increased support from international donors, which will allow us to do even more. But, as of now, we're using our own funds. We have already significantly increased our presence, our investments without any guarantees or international support, in trade finance, the agribusiness sector, and in the high-tech sector. And we are now exploring other potential investments in the agribusiness sector, which we believe will be critical, and helping the banking sector to provide more financing services," the expert said.

The vice president explained that unlike the World Bank's URTF trust fund to support the public sector, the IFC mobilizes financial support from donors to channel it to the private sector.

"URTF is the trust fund the World Bank Trust established to support the public sector. What we are doing is to mobilize financial support from donors so we can channel it to the private sector. Normally, how it works is, that we can leverage each dollar a donor contributes up to four times, because we can mobilize and bring on board other investors that otherwise wouldnt have," he said.

"The longer the invasion lasts, the longer we will need to continue focusing on this first phase and the later we will be able to move on to the reconstruction phase. So I think that's the key thing. This wont affect our commitment or negatively impact investment volumes. Of course, the moment the invasion is over, there will be a much bigger influx of capital into the country. But we will continue supporting the country even if it takes until 2025," he said, commenting on the basic scenario of the program with the IMF assuming the war's winding down in the middle of 2024, and the negative one  at the end of 2025.

The official also expressed hope that at the forthcoming Ukraine Recovery Conference in London at the end of June this year it will be possible to agree on a roadmap for attracting and maximizing the use of funds for the priorities and in the volumes referred to in the World Bank's Rapid Damage and Needs Assessment (RDNA2).

"We need to redirect financing to those areas and through those institutions that can leverage contributions and multiply their impact now. And I think that the IFC can play a big role," he added.
Khartoum, Sudan (PANA)- Sudan on Monday described the ongoing fighting between the Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces as an internal issue that should be left for Sudanese to settle without any foreign intervention
Banjul, Gambia (PANA) - Swiss prosecutors have charged a former interior minister of The Gambia with crimes against humanity for his alleged role in years of repression by the West African countrys security forces against opponents of its long-time dictator
Lusaka, Zambia (PANA) - UN independent human rights experts on Monday said they were deeply concerned over delays in reaching an agreement on the restructuring of Zambias debt and its corresponding negative human rights impact on peoples lives
O serwisie

Polska Agencja Prasowa w swoich serwisach informacyjnych i na portalach udostepnia  juz od 1994 roku  informacje zlecone (komunikaty prasowe, artykuy sponsorowane, materiay partnerskie), ktorych publikacja zostaa opacona przez firmy, instytucje i organizacje z Polski lub z zagranicy.

W ramach swiadczenia tej usugi, oznaczonej logiem PAP MediaRoom, wspopracujemy z miedzynarodowymi agencjami wyspecjalizowanymi w dystrybucji tresci promocyjnych: Cision (PRNewswire), APA-OTS, BusinessWire.

Wieksze zasoby informacji, do bezpatnego pobierania i wykorzystania przez dziennikarzy oraz redakcje, dostepne sa na portalu pap-mediaroom.pl

UWAGA: w sprawach redakcyjnych dotyczacych tresci oznaczonych logiem PAP MediaRoom prosimy o kontakt z Zespoem Dystrybucji Informacji.

Klientow zainteresowanych usugami komunikacyjnymi PAP zachecamy do zapoznania sie z nasza oferta oraz do kontaktu z Zespoem Marketingu i Sprzedazy.
Photo: (Photo : BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI / Getty Images)

A 13-year-old boy named Jacob Stevens from Ohio passed away at the hospital due to an overdose after participating in the TikTok "Benadryl Challenge."

This dangerous trend involves taking 12 to 14 antihistamines, which is six times more than the recommended dosage, to experience hallucinations. With this tragic incident, the boy's parents are raising awareness and advising other parents to keep an eye on their children's online activity to prevent them from taking part in hazardous trends.

TikTok's Benadryl Challenge Claims Lives

Jacob's father, Justin Stevens, shared with the Daily Mail that his son and his friends were recording him while attempting a social media challenge.

According to Justin, Jacob's body began seizing uncontrollably after taking the medication, and he was immediately rushed to the hospital. However, despite the medical team's best efforts, the boy's condition worsened, and he was placed on a ventilator.

Tragically, Jacob passed away six days later, with his father describing it as the worst day of his life. The family was informed that there were no brain scans and that there was no activity, leaving them devastated.

Jacob's grandmother, Dianna Stevens, expressed her grief, stating that she would do everything in her power to ensure that no other child had to go through the same ordeal. The family's pain was evident as they urged other parents to keep a close eye on their children's social media activities and warn them of the dangers of participating in unsupervised trends and challenges.

According to ABC, Justin even contacted local lawmakers to discuss enacting age restrictions on over-the-counter medications like Benadryl, which was involved in the tragedy. The incident has brought attention to the dangerous trend of social media challenges, which have resulted in several fatalities in recent years.

These viral trends often involve dangerous activities, and teenagers are often tempted to participate to gain attention and approval on social media.

Jacob's tragic passing has left a void in his family's life, and they hope that by sharing their story, they can prevent other families from experiencing the same pain.

Read Also: The Band Perry's Kimberly Perry Expecting Her First Child Amidst Band's Creative Break

Dangers of Overdosing OTC Medications

The Benadryl Challenge is a disturbing trend that has been circulating on social media platforms, particularly TikTok, since 2020. The challenge involves taking excessive amounts of the over-the-counter allergy medication diphenhydramine (Benadryl) to induce hallucinations, often resulting in dangerous health consequences.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Johnson & Johnson unit that produces Benadryl have both issued warnings against the trend. It has been made known that taking higher than recommended doses of diphenhydramine can lead to serious health problems such as death, coma, seizures, or heart problems. They urge parents, caregivers, and consumers to store all OTC and prescription medicines up and away, out of children's reach and sight, and to lock them up to prevent accidental poisoning by children and misuse by teens.

The Benadryl Challenge has been associated with several reports of teenagers ending up in emergency rooms or dying after participating in the trend. Unfortunately, there have already been fatalities linked to the challenge, according to the New York Post.

In August 2020, a 15-year-old girl fatally overdosed on diphenhydramine during an attempt at the stunt, underscoring the danger of the trend.

It is also advised that it is essential to educate children and teenagers about the potential dangers of over-the-counter medications and to seek medical attention immediately if they or someone they know experiences adverse effects from any medication.

Related Article: Colorado Becomes Safe Haven For Abortion, Gender-Affirming Care Despite Restrictive Access in Neighboring States
Photo: (Photo : Getty Images/STEPHEN ZENNER/AFP)

The black teenager was supposed to pick up his siblings but rang the wrong doorbell and was shot twice by the owner of the wrong house he went to.

After fighting for his life in the hospital for days, Ralph Yarl finally gets to go home to his family Monday, his attorney Ben Crump informed CNN News.

"He's not out of the woods yet, but the great thing is, (medical officials) said he was stable enough to go to his home," the attorney stated, further noting that the 16-year-old is still struggling from the stress of the tragedy he faced days ago. His family is just joyful that he is finally home and has survived the gunshot in his head.

On April 13, Yarl's parents asked him to pick up his siblings at their friend's residence. However, an address mix-up led him to the wrong property.

He went to N.E. 115th St. in Kansas City, Missouri, instead of N.E. 115th Terrace. The teenager pulled into the driveway, walked up to the front door, and rang the doorbell without any idea that he was in the wrong house.

It was reported that he was immediately shot in the head, first, by the owner, and was shot the second time around while he was already on the ground bleeding out.

Warrant of Arrest for Alleged Shooter Already Out

Andrew Lester, an 85-year-old White man and owner of the house, was taken into police custody the day of the incident yet was also released pending further investigation.

Yesterday, Lester was charged with assault in the first degree and armed criminal, Clay County Prosecuting Attorney Zachary Thompson revealed Monday, KMBC News reported.

The alleged shooter, if convicted, could spend life in prison. As Thompson explained, felony assault in the first degree has a punishment of ten to 30 years in prison at a minimum or a life sentence as a maximum.

When asked about what the investigators have discovered, Thompson kept his silence but commented, "I can tell you there was a racial component to this case."

A warrant of arrest is out for Lester, yet he has not been booked. It is still unknown whether the man has an attorney that will represent him or provide comments on his behalf.

Read More: Ohio Police Tracks Down Homeschool for Teaching Racist, White Supremacist, Pro-Nazi Lessons

Celebrities and Protesters Call for Justice

The aunt of Yarl has started a GoFundMe account for the teenager, who is an honors student dreaming of attending Texas A&M University and a section leader in his high school band.

His aunt stated that though he has survived the two gunshots, he "has a long road ahead mentally and emotionally."

Before the charge for the alleged shooter has been out, protesters have gone to the streets and took to social media to demand justice for the boy. Protesters in the streets carried signs that read, "Ringing a doorbell is not a crime" and "The shooter should do the time."

Outrage protesters even went and gathered outside the residence of the man who shot the boy.

Protesters on social media used the hashtag #RalphYarl, and asked the public to contact Prosecutor Thompson and demand the immediate arrest of the shooter.

Celebrities joined the call for justice campaign on social media. Halle Berry, Questlove, Jessica Alba, Justin Timberlake, Kate Hudson, and others weighed in, according to People magazine.

"I was a Ralph. We were all Ralph. A young Black boy HAS THE RIGHT to accidentally go to 115th Street instead of 115th Terrace WITHOUT BEING SHOT. Period," proclaimed Questlove, who extended help to the Yarl family by getting them high-profile attorneys, Lee Merritt and Ben Crump.

Related Article: Buffalo Mass Shooting: Mom Learns Daughter Died in Racist Attack on Facebook; Fire Chief's Mom Also a Victim
This service applies to you if your subscription has not yet expired on our old site. You will have continued access until your subscription expires; then you will need to purchase an ongoing subscription through our new system. Please contact the Parsons Sun office at (620) 421-2000 if you have any questions
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. According to the training plan for 2023 approved by the Azerbaijan Defense Minister, the training session for a group of reservists is being held in one of the military units, Trend reports via Azerbaijani Minister of Defense.

The reservists involved in the training were provided with military uniforms and other supplies after appropriate registration and medical examination at the headquarters of the assembly point.

The main purpose of the session is to improve reservists combat skills, military knowledge and experience, to familiarize them with the modern weapons and military equipment which is in Azerbaijan Armys armament, and to teach how to use them.
This morning, 300 or more people queued at Apple's store opening in Mumbai as fans took selfies with Chief Executive Tim Cook, who inaugurated the first retail store run by the tech giant in India, underscoring the importance of its market.

"The energy, creativity, and passion in Mumbai is incredible!" Cook, who is making his first visit to India in seven years, said on Twitter. "We are so excited to open ... our first store in India."

People flocked to the store from across India, hoping to be among the first to enter, in an opening event featuring local music and folk dancers.

(Click on image to Enlarge)

Some queued outside from the previous night to get their hands on Apple products, even though they are available online in India.

"The fanboy inside me would not listen," Purav Mehta, 30, told Reuters, as he waited to get Cook's signature on his boxed mint-condition iPod Touch, which he had bought on eBay, as well as waiting to buy the Apple Watch Ultra.

Many visitors wore T-shirts in the style favoured by co-founder Steve Jobs, had their hair cut in the shape of an Apple logo and one fan even brought a version of the first Apple computer launched in 1984.

"The vibe here is just different," said 23-year old Aan Shah, who travelled from the western industrial city of Ahmedabad for the launch in India's commercial capital.

"It's not like buying from some normal store. There's just no comparison. It's so exciting."

His love for Apple took him to store openings as a young student in New York and Boston, where he once got a chance to meet Cook, he said.

Apple has previously faced hurdles in opening physical retail stores in the South Asian nation, but its products have been available on e-commerce websites, while its online store opened in 2020.

The new store opens as Indian consumers increasingly look to upgrade their smartphones to glitzier models, with richer feature sets, from budget devices typically costing less than $120.

A second store in Delhi, the capital, is set to open on Thursday. Cook is set to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the deputy IT minister later this week, sources told Reuters. For more, read the full Reuters report (paywall).

There's likely to more photos coming later this morning from Apple. We'll follow-up with a secondary report at that time.

(Click on image to Enlarge)




Bryan Windle states,

Sennacherib is mentioned by name 16 times in Scripture, more than any other Assyrian ruler. From a biblical perspective, he is most famous for his invasion of Judah in 701 BC and his siege against King Hezekiah and Jerusalem (2 Ki 18-19; 2 Ch 32; Is 37). (1)

He reigned as king from 705/704 to 681 B.C. (2). As to the dates of reign of King Hezekiah of Judah, Encyclopedia Britannica observes, The dates of his reign are often given as about 715 to about 686 BC, . . . (3). Archaeologist and Egyptologist Kenneth A. Kitchen concurs with Hezekiahs dates. (4) 2 Kings 18:2 (RSV) informs us that he reigned twenty-nine years in Jerusalem. Thus, we have a strong correspondence in the time of reigns between the two kings, which already backs up the biblical account.

2 Kings 18:13-15, 17 In the fourteenth year of King Hezekiah Sennacherib king of Assyria came up against all the fortified cities of Judah and took them. And Hezekiah king of Judah sent to the king of Assyria at Lachish, saying, I have done wrong; withdraw from me; whatever you impose on me I will bear. And the king of Assyria required of Hezekiah king of Judah three hundred talents of silver and thirty talents of gold. And Hezekiah gave him all the silver that was found in the house of the LORD, and in the treasuries of the kings house. . . . And the king of Assyria sent the Tartan, the Rabsaris, and the Rabshakeh with a great army from Lachish to King Hezekiah at Jerusalem. And they went up and came to Jerusalem. When they arrived, they came and stood by the conduit of the upper pool, which is on the highway to the Fullers Field.

Scripture also states that Sennacherib failed to conquer Jerusalem (2 Kings 18:28-35) during his military exploits of 701 B.C. Sennacherib in his annals provides information that corroborates the biblical account,

As for Hezekiah, the Jew, who did not submit to my yoke, 46 of his strong cities, as well as the small cities in their neighborhood, which were without number  by levelling with battering-rams (?) and by bringing up siege-engines (?), I besieged and took (those cities). . . . Himself, like a caged bird I shut up in Jerusalem his royal city.In addition to the 30 talents of gold and 800 talents of silver (there were), gems, cosmetics (?), jewels (?), large sandu-stones, couches of ivory, house chairs of ivory, elephant hide, ivory (lit. elephants teeth), ushu-wood, ukarinnu-wood, all kinds of valuable (heavy) treasures, . . . (5)

The similarities of the accounts of taking the fortified cities is striking, as is the exact amount of gold given by Hezekiah to Sennacherib as tribute. The much larger amount of silver in the Assyrian chronicle might very well be paralleled in the biblical description: Hezekiah gave him all the silver that was found in the house of the LORD, and in the treasuries of the kings house. Ultimately, Sennacherib doesnt record that he took Jerusalem, and this lines up with the Bible and a prophecy from the prophet Isaiah (2 Kings 19:20) to Hezekiah,

2 Kings 19:32-34 Therefore thus says the LORD concerning the king of Assyria, He shall not come into this city or shoot an arrow there, or come before it with a shield or cast up a siege mound against it. By the way that he came, by the same he shall return, and he shall not come into this city, says the LORD. For I will defend this city to save it, for my own sake and for the sake of my servant David.

Sennacheribs death is also similarly detailed in biblical and Assyrian records,

2 Kings 19:37 And as he was worshiping in the house of Nisroch his god, Adrammelech and Sharezer, his sons, slew him with the sword, and escaped into the land of Ararat. And Esarhaddon his son reigned in his stead. (cf. Isa. 37:38)

Esarhaddon refers to his fathers murder, committed by his brothers:

My brothers went mad and whatever was wicked against gods and men they did, and plotted evil: they drew the sword in the midst of Nineveh godlessly: to exercise the kingship against each other they rushed like young steers. (6) . . . those rebels, the ones engaged in revolt and rebellion, when they heard of the advance of my campaign, they deserted the army they relied on and fled to an unknown land. (7)

Kitchen adds fascinating details,

The biblical Adrammelek is a form of Arda-mulissi (the name of Sennacheribs murderous eldest son in contemporary documents) . . . (8) Sennacherib in his annals gets theological: In my 7th campaign, (the god) Ashur my Lord supported me . . . against Elam . . . . . . The ancient writers theological beliefs ibn each case have nothing to do with the reality of the events  only with the imputed cause behind the events. So we can no more dismiss 2 Kings 18-19 (even if we believe in neither YHWH nor his angel of death) than the annals of Sennacherib (even though nobody today believes in Ashur!), backed up as they are by the nontheological precis in the Babylonian Chronicle. In short, the Hebrew narratives in Kings and Chronicles should be treated as impartially and fairly as most properly knowledgeable Assyriologists, Hittitologists, and Egyptologists normally treat the firsthand and fully comparable ancient documents in their domain. Hypercriticism of the Hebrew data is wrong in attitude, methods, and results alike. (9)

Additionally, Assyrian records note Sennacheribs siege of Lachish,

The siege and capture of Lachish . . . is the centerpiece to a splendid set of scenes showing the Assyrian forces attacking, then actively pressing their siege to break into Lachish, capture the town, and lead out captives. . . . The mound of Tell ed-Duweir . . . revealed the battered bulk of the Assyrian siege ramp (as shown on the reliefs) up to the walls, plus a Hebrew counterramp within the walls. The city, destroyed by the Assyrians, is Lachish level III archaeologically. (10)

This lines up (as always!) with the biblical mention of the same siege:

2 Chronicles 32:9 . . . Sennacherib king of Assyria, who was besieging Lachish with all his forces, . . .

2 Kings 19:32 (see above) indirectly refers to this siege ramp, in stating that Sennacherib would not (and in fact he did not) cast up a siege mound against Jerusalem, as he presumably did against other cities (Lachish being one).

Some, however, think that this siege was carried out by the Babylonian king Nebuchadnezzar, some 114 years later. Not so, according to an article in the Oxford Journal of Archaeology, in an article dated October 14, 2021. (11) This significant research article was reported on by The Times of Israel (12), The Jerusalem Post (13), and Haaretz (14).

FOOTNOTES

1) Bryan Windle, Sennacherib: An Archaeological Biography, Bible Archaeology Report, July 3, 2020. https://biblearchaeologyreport.com/2020/07/03/sennacherib-an-archaeological-biography/.

2) Henry W. F. Saggs, Sennacherib, in Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/biography/Sennacherib.

3) Hezekiah, in Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/biography/Hezekiah.

4) Kenneth A, Kitchen, On the Reliability of the Old Testament (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 2003), 31.

5) Daniel David Luckenbill, The Annals of Sennacherib (Chicago: The University of Chicago Press, 1924), 11-12. https://oi.uchicago.edu/sites/oi.uchicago.edu/files/uploads/shared/docs/oip2.pdf.

6) The Esarhaddon Prism, The British Museum. https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/W_1929-1012-1.

7) Ninevah A, The Royal Inscriptions of the Neo-Assyrian Period. http://oracc.museum.upenn.edu/rinap/corpus/.

8) Kitchen, 42.

9) Kitchen, 51.

10) Kitchen, 42.

11) Yosef Garfinkel, Jon W. Carroll, Michael Pytlik, Madeleine Mumcuoglu, Constructing the Assyrian Siege Ramp at Lachish: Texts, Iconography, Archaeology and Photogrammetry, Oxford Journal of Archaeology Volume 40, Issue 4 (November 2021), 417-439. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/ojoa.12231.

12) Michael Bachner, How Lachish fell: Study reconstructs Assyrian onslaught almost 3,000 years ago, The Times of Israel, November 9, 2021. https://www.timesofisrael.com/how-lachish-fell-study-reconstructs-assyrian-onslaught-almost-3000-years-ago/.

13) Rossella Tercatin, Biblical warfare: How did the Assyrians conquer Judean Lachish?, The Jerusalem Post, November 9, 2021. https://www.jpost.com/archaeology/biblical-warfare-how-did-the-assyrians-conquer-judean-lachish-684440.

14) Ariel David, Archaeologists Reveal Secrets of Assyrian War Machine That Conquered Ancient Judah, Haaretz, November 9, 2021. https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/2021-11-09/ty-article/archaeologists-reveal-secrets-of-assyrian-war-machine-that-conquered-ancient-judah/0000017f-f57a-d318-afff-f77b80330000.

Related Reading

King Hezekiah: Exciting New Archaeological Findings [12-13-22]

***

Practical Matters: Perhaps some of my 4,200+ free online articles (the most comprehensive one-stop Catholic apologetics site) or fifty-one books have helped you (by Gods grace) to decide to become Catholic or to return to the Church, or better understand some doctrines and why we believe them. Or you may believe my work is worthy to support for the purpose of apologetics and evangelism in general. If so, please seriously consider a much-needed financial contribution. Im always in need of more funds: especially monthly support. The laborer is worthy of his wages (1 Tim 5:18, NKJV). 1 December 2021 was my 20th anniversary as a full-time Catholic apologist, and February 2022 marked the 25th anniversary of my blog. PayPal donations are the easiest: just send to my email address: apologistdave@gmail.com. Youll see the term Catholic Used Book Service, which is my old side-business. To learn about the different methods of contributing, including 100% tax deduction, etc., see my page: About Catholic Apologist Dave Armstrong / Donation Information. Thanks a million from the bottom of my heart!

***

Photo credit: Timo Roller (5-5-15), Cast of a rock relief of Sennacherib from the foot of Cudi Dag, near Cizre. The cast is exhibited in Landshut, Germany. [Wikimedia Commons / Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported license]

***

Summary: Overview of the convergence of biblical & archaeological data regarding Assyrian King Sennacherib (r. c. 705-681 B.C.), during the time of King Hezekiah of Judah.
As careers go, I have little to complain about. But I have to confessthere are parts of the job I like less than others. And Windows 11 is one of those things.

I dont think its a bad operating system. That (dis)honor goes to Windows ME, with Vista as runner up. (Serving as tech support for my parents PC with Windows ME ranks among my least favorite periods of my life.) But even after a year and a half since Windows 11s launch, I still find myself longing for Windows 10 whenever I make myself use Windows 11.

What makes Microsofts latest operating system a thing I tolerate between the weekday hours of 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.? Its the collection of multiple low-grade annoyances I cant easily evade. I wont bore you with all the detailsyes, the Windows 11 Start menu remains an annoying step backwardsbut let me give you some examples of the biggest irritations.

Further reading: How to make Windows 11 look like Windows 10

Buried (or eliminated) controls

Windows 11 buries long-available features in a secondary context menu. PCWorld

The user interface teams at Microsoft apparently did not listen any focus group feedback from my demographic, also known as the Why the [censored] would you ever do that? cohort. Last year I wrote about how Windows 11s right-click menu sucks, but its still worth repeating 12 months later. For decades (literal decades), Windows offered action shortcuts like refresh through that context menu. Then in Windows 11, such mainstays abruptly got shunted off into a secondary right-click menuwhat took one mouse click to find now takes two. And this is still the default, as is the neutering of the ribbon in File Explorer, which put a lot of other commands front and center.

Could I dig into the registry for every Windows 11 PC I spin up for work in order to fix these problems? Yes. Do I like messing with the registry? No.

Settings menus that all look the same

Pretty, but hard for my eyes to scan and pick things out quickly. Feels like everything has the same visual weight. PCWorld

Windows 11s Settings menu options all look alike, and it drives me crazy. Dont get me wrong, theyre pretty with those translucent blocks. But scanning them to quickly find the feature I want to tweak is murder on my brain, especially since some elements changed between Windows 10 and Windows 11. I assume Im supposed to search to find things quickly, but its not actually faster when I have to first Google to identify the right search term, then type it it in.

Bugs

What is this nonsense? PCWorld

The Windows 11 machine I currently use most will inexplicably throw up a blank start menu from time to time. The search function will simultaneously go dead, too. I havent figured out why yetin the grand scheme of things, rebooting every day or two isnt horrific, and it takes less time than going through the standard troubleshooting steps. Still, I cant always reboot immediately when it happens, leaving me to stew on the problem in the back of my head anyway. Is it Windows? Is it Windows reacting badly to apps Ive installed? Am I going to have to nuke the whole thing and start over to solve this issue? The behavior is so strange for a PC that barely has any software on it.

You know what never does this to me? Windows 10.

Default Start menu position

That centered location for the Start Menu and open apps? Im not a fan. Microsoft

Something about that centered cluster of start menu button and open apps throws me off any time I use a Windows 11 PC. I know thats now a changeable setting. But I cant really turn it off.

In my opinion, part of my job involves helping people who stick with defaultswhether thats navigating them as-is or changing them to be less annoying. But I cant know what those defaults are (and how they shift) if Ive configured my machine to suit my taste and leave it that way.

So I leave everything as presented by Microsoft. It allows me to directly experience what many people will, so that Im better equipped when dispensing advice. You can call me masochisticand you wouldnt be wrongbut when I get a text message from a friend or relative asking for assistance, the last thing I want is trying to remember what I left default and what I tinkered with as Im talking them through their issue.

Meanwhile, I keep instinctively clicking left on my taskbar, thinking the Start menu button is there. Every dang time.

No local accounts

Yes, using your Microsoft account to log into Windows has its perks. But sometimes the very same features are a drawback for me. Mark Hachman / IDG

Look, Microsoft, you dont know my life better than me. Do I agree that the signing in with a Microsoft account provides smart protections? Yes, especially since laptops are so popular these daysmost people will benefit from device encryption and other features if their PC becomes lost or stolen. But do I want to sign in with a Microsoft account across countless computers for work and subsequently ending up with all kinds of random things syncing to it? Nope.

Windows 10 gently pushes users to sign in with an account, but theres still at least that backdoor for folks like me to slip through. Windows 11 basically forces you to use a Microsoft account.

Let me live on the edge, Windows 11. I know what Im doing.

Fixable, but broken

Im about to have about fifteen bajillionty people swarm out of the woodwork and hit my mentions about how I could just tweak everything with some registry fixes or paid software. I know I technically could.

But lets just back up a second. Leaving aside the legitimate reasons for why I cant, as outlined above Why do we need to tinker in the registry to bring back functionality that worked for decades? (I cant stress this point enough. We had some of these user interface features for decades.) Or alternatively, having to pay for a piece of software that makes those adjustments and also adds back functionality we were used to?

Its a philosophical sore spot for me, and one I think about whenever my Windows 11 start menu goes blank. Or I move my mouse to the left side of the taskbar without thinking. Each time, I sigh softly to myself and wish for Windows 10. If you, like me, cant shake its grasp, its worth changing these five Windows 11 settings immediately.
Kyiv will aim to secure the re-opening of food and grain transit via Poland as "a first step" at talks in Warsaw on Monday, Ukraine's agriculture minister said, after Poland and Hungary announced bans on some imports from Ukraine.



Some Black Sea ports were blocked after Russia's invasion of Ukraine began in February last year and large quantities of Ukrainian grain - which is cheaper than that produced in the European Union - ended up staying in Central European countries because of logistical bottlenecks.



This hit prices and sales for local farmers, putting pressure on governments that had turned to the European Union for action before Warsaw and Budapest took their own decisions over the weekend.



Poland's ban on grains, in effect since Saturday evening, also applied to transit through the country. Officials have said it is meant to keep grain transport from entering the Polish market.



"The first step, in our opinion, should be the opening of transit, because it is quite important and it is the thing that should be done unconditionally and after that we will talk about other things," Ukrainian Agriculture Minister Mykola Solsky said.



"In terms of figures, everything that crossed the Polish border (from Ukraine)... is about 10% of everything (of food goods) Ukraine exported," he said in comments published on the Telegram messaging app by the Agriculture Ministry.



Deliveries to Hungary accounted for around 6% of Ukraine's farm exports, he said, adding that Ukrainian food transit via Hungary and Slovakia was unaffected.



He also said there would be additional talks this week in Romania on Wednesday, and in Slovakia on Thursday.



Talks between Ukraine and Poland were due to start in Warsaw around 12:00 p.m. (1000 GMT), Polish Agriculture Minister Robert Telus said on TVP Info.



Ukraine usually exports its agricultural goods, especially grain, via its Black Sea ports which were unblocked last July in line with an agreement between Ukraine, Turkey, Russia and the United Nations.



That accord is scheduled to expire on May 18 and Moscow said last week that it may not be extended unless the West removes obstacles to the export of Russian grain and fertiliser.



Polish Deputy Foreign Minister Pawel Jablonski told radio station RMF talks with Ukraine could at least relieve the tensions with farmers in central eastern Europe.



"We want to lead to a situation where not even the smallest grain transport, which is to be exported, (is) introduced to the Polish market," he said.



"The ultimate goal is not that the import ban will be in force indefinitely, but to ensure that grain from Ukraine, which is to be exported, goes (where it is headed)."



In a letter to the European Commission last month, the prime ministers of Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, Romania and Slovakia said there had been an unprecedented increase in shipments of products including grains, oilseeds, eggs, poultry and sugar.



They said tariffs on Ukrainian agricultural imports should be considered. States have pushed for a purchase mechanism to scoop up cheap grain.



Jablonski said the letter had yet to receive any response.



Reporting by Pavel Polityuk; writing by Tom Balmforth; editing by Timothy Heritage









Source: Reuters









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Opposition activist Vladimir Kara-Murza has been sentenced to 25 years in jail in Russia for charges linked to his criticism of the war in Ukraine.



He was found guilty of treason, spreading "false" information about the Russian army and being affiliated with an "undesirable organisation".



The Russian-British former journalist and politician is the latest of several Putin opponents to have been arrested or forced to flee Russia.



He has denied all of the charges.



Mr Kara-Murza, 41, has spent years speaking out against Russian President Vladimir Putin and, alongside the war in Ukraine, has also been critical of the government's crackdown on dissent.

Last week, he said in a statement that he stood by "every word that I have said... Not only do I not repent any of this, I am proud of it."



"I know that the day will come when the darkness engulfing our country will clear," he added in remarks posted online. "Our society will open its eyes and shudder when it realises what crimes were committed in its name."



Mr Kara-Murza's 25-year sentence, which has been widely condemned, was the maximum sought by prosecutors and is the longest sentence an opposition figure has received since the war in Ukraine began.



Read Full Story .... HERE >>> :









Source: BBC









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The police service has met with the largest political parties, the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) over issues much concerned about the police service.



The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) George Akuffo-Dampare who seems not happy about political interference in his led administration asked the political parties to cease meddling during the crunch meeting.



A statement from the police service said they will welcome criticisms from the political parties but an attempt to instruct them on what to do will not be tolerated.



At the meeting, both parties were also urged that with these policing interventions in place, they should do their politics and allow the Police to do policing. We, therefore, called on them to support us including by criticizing us constructively to do a professional job in line with our constitutional mandate, a portion of the statement reads



Read below the full seventeen points statement



1. The Police this afternoon met with the leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) at the National Police Headquarters in Accra.



2. The meeting which was called at the instance of the Inspector-General of Police was necessitated by press statements issued by the parties and subsequently followed by petitions to the Police Service with each party calling on the Police to arrest certain individuals of the other side for some alleged offences.



3. At the meeting, both parties were given the opportunity to air their grievances. The main issue raised by them was with respect to comments by some political actors from both sides of the divide considered to be inflammatory.



4. The Police also briefed them on two strategic interventions introduced by the Police Administration to handle the election and politically related incidents as part of the police transformation agenda.



5. The Police used the opportunity to provide an update on the status of political violence and related incidents recorded during the recent internal elections of both parties including;



6. The arrest and prosecution of some 14 members of the NPP for disturbances during their constituency election at Enchi and the arrest of 9 out of the 16 wanted individuals for disturbances at the national youth and women organizer polls of the NDC at Cape Coast.



7. An update was also provided on the status of the 2020 General Election-related cases including Techiman South and Odododiodio constituencies and the public will be duly updated on these cases in the course of the week.



8. The first strategic intervention shared with them is the establishment of the Police Election Security Secretariat to work with all political parties and other stakeholders to enhance the management of security for all elections in the country.



9. This is a complete departure from the old order where an election security task force was put together just some months before the general elections.



10. Since its creation over a year ago, the Police Election Security Secretariat has worked with the various political parties in their respective internal elections from the polling station, through the constituency to the national executive elections.



11. The Secretariat is currently working with both parties on their parliamentary and presidential primaries.



12. The second intervention is the setting up of a dedicated legal team to subject all politically related incidents to legal scrutiny to establish whether there are elements of a crime or otherwise before any Police action is taken. The Police will therefore not intervene in any situation where there is no criminality involved.



13. This is a paradigm shift from the practice in the past where people were arrested in the heat of the moment for politically related incidents as a result of attempts by politicians on either side to whip up public sentiments against the police thereby creating the impression that the Police supports one side against the other. In such instances when no concrete charges can be levelled against such people they are eventually released thereby creating the impression in the public domain as though the police were manipulated in effecting their arrests.



14. This initiative has been used to analyze all recent cases such as comments made by the Hon. Minister of Food and Agriculture and the Constituency Youth Organiser for the NDC at Suame, among others.



15. At the meeting both parties were also urged that with these policing interventions in place, they should do their politics and allow the Police to do policing. We, therefore, called on them to support us including by criticizing us constructively to do a professional job in line with our constitutional mandate.



16. As we commend the leadership of the two political parties for availing themselves and contributing to the success of the meeting, we would like to call on Ghanaians to help us in our effort to build an independent Police service which will serve the greater good of the Ghanaian people and not the interest of any individual or group of people.



17. Once again, we wish to assure the public that we remain committed to ensuring peace, security, law and order in the country at all times including before, during and after all elections in the country.

Source: King Edward Ambrose Washman Addo/peacefmonline.com/ghana









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Alistair Mathias is one of the indicted self-acclaimed gold smuggling money launderers captured in the 'Gold Mafia' documentary released by Doha-based Al Jazeera.



Even though the focus of the investigative film is Zimbabwe and how complicity in high places with people like Mathias helps with laundering of illicit proceeds amid influence peddling; Alistair also mentioned other countries where he wields illicit business influence within corridors of power.



In West Africa, Ghana was the only country that he claimed to have connections in.



In his narration to undercover agents, he revealed among others, how he allegedly smuggles $40 million worth of gold from the country every month.



In the fourth episode of the series, Alistair Mathis said that his firm acted as an intermediary in the allocation contracts for projects by the government of Ghana.



I buy a lot of stuff in my name on behalf of politicians In Africa, I do government contracts. In Ghana, I take tenders, construction of roads, procurement, supplying different things, oil, this that."



He went on to narrate how the spoils of Ghanaian government contracts are shared between himself and corrupt politicians.



Denial in the face of evidence:



When Al Jazeera contacted him after completing their investigation, Alistair denied his words captured by investigators.



Al Jazeera posted his denials at the tail end of the particular episode. It read thus:



"Alistair Mathias denied that he designed mechanisms to launder money and said that he never laundered money or gold or offered to do such things.



"He told us he had never had any working relationship with Emmerson Mnangagwa, Ewan Macmillan or any of the African politicians he identified to our reporters.



"Mr Mathias denied ever being awarded any tender by the Ghanaian government or entering any government contracts in any African country."



On his now discredited claim that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo was a friend and lawyer, Al Jazeera wrote: "President Akufo-Addo of Ghana told us that he had no recollection of acting as a lawyer for Alistair Mathias or his company."







Source: ghanaweb.com









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It has emerged that galamsey (illegal mining) kingpin, Aisha Huang, told law enforcement officers that she sneaked back into Ghana following her deportation in 2018, because she missed her husband who is living in the country.



Inspector Simon Nyaho, the prosecutions 10th witness in the trial of Aisha Huang, who is being held on immigration and illegal mining charges, yesterday told the court that the accused upon her arrest told officers that she managed to re-enter Ghana through Aflao port and had in her possession two Chinese passports.



When we asked her why she came into Ghana, she stated that she had missed her husband, whose name she gave as one Prince Amoah, and that she had come to visit him, the witness told the court.



Different Passports



Inspector Nyaho also confirmed to the court that Aisha Huang was arrested with two passports bearing different names and dates of birth as well as places of birth although both were issued in the Republic of China.



He said one of the passports had the name En Huang with date of birth as July 7, 1986, issued in Ningxia, China on January 14, 2010, had an expiration date of January 13, 2020, and the place of birth indicated in the passport is Nei Mongol.



He said the second passport had the name Ruixia Huang with a date of birth as November 7, 1975, issued in Fujian, China on January 14, 2019 and is to expire on January 13, 2029.



Inspector Nyaho told the court that the place of birth indicated on the second passport is Fujian, and both passports have the picture of the accused person.



Exhibits



The witness further told the court that Aisha Huang also had in her possession yellow fever vaccination card, COVID-19 vaccination card, and Non-Citizen Ghana Card application form with its payment receipts when she was arrested by officials of the Ghana Immigration Service.



We secured a court order to enable us conduct a further search of the residence of the accused person. At her residence, we found 19 bottles of substances which was later confirmed by the Ghana Standards Authority to be mercury, 200 pieces of AA cartridges and a warehouse containing toiletries, groceries, excavator parts and other Chinese consumables. We also took custody of two metal safes earlier retrieved from the residence of the accused person by Officers of the Defence Intelligence, Inspector Nyaho told the court.

Source: Daily Guide









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BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. Azerbaijani AccessBank's main goal for 2023 is to bring the profitability of the bank's equity to 20 percent, David Tsiklauri, Chairman of the Management Board of AccessBank, told Trend.

"Last year was quite successful and critical for AccessBank in every sense. During 2022, our team was able to achieve significant changes that allowed the bank to improve its financial performance. It is worth noting profitability on equity, because it will not be entirely correct to measure the results in the banking sector by absolute figures. The profitability on equity of our bank in 2020 and 2021 was close to zero, and in 2022 it amounted to 17 percent," Tsiklauri said.

Referring to profitability, Tsiklauri noted that for shareholders in Azerbaijan, the expected return on equity (ROE) for financial institutions is about the same 20 percent as throughout the region. In addition, such profitability gives impetus to the further continuous growth of the financial institution, which positively affects the entire economy of the country.

"Many Azerbaijani banks have crossed this threshold, and we expect that our profitability on capital will only grow in the future. For 2023, we set ourselves the task of improving AccessBank's performance compared to 2022, which was very positive for us. To achieve this result, our bank plans to continue investing in implementation of new products and improving the infrastructure for the comfortable use of our services by customers," he said.

Tsiklauri added that each of the bank's departments has a list of tasks that teams need to solve for 2023 to be more positive, just like last year.

Speaking about the development strategy, the chairman of the bank noted that AccessBank's current and enduring goal is to support micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).

"AccessBank has always been strong in supporting customers of this segment, and it remains a top priority for us. We have launched active work on the promotion of services and products for the retail segment, and in the future, we plan to further strengthen it," he said.

According to the chairman of the bank, the strategy will be aimed at improving banking services in terms of technologies to accelerate decisions on granting loans (for example, scoring mechanisms, automated decision-making, etc.).

"Implementation of AccessBank's development strategy is proceeding according to our roadmap aimed at maintaining strong positions in the segment of MSMEs, and strengthening in the retail segment," he added.

Furthermore, Tsiklauri said that AccessBank's microcredit portfolio has increased by more than 25 percent year-on-year, and the bank monthly continues to issue loans in this segment several times more than anyone else in Azerbaijans market.

"The segments and the main directions of our activity are: firstly, AccessBank will continue to invest capital in micro-loans, and I think, in the coming years, our growth in this segment will be 15-20 percent. Secondly, in 2023 we will be more active in the segment of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) than in the previous years. And thirdly, we will continue to enhance our products for the retail segment, which we began to actively develop in 2021," said Tsiklauri.

In terms of the bank's partnership with Azerbaijans Entrepreneurship Development Fund, Tsiklauri noted that the maximum target threshold for 2023 exceeded the limit of the previous year. As a result of the bank's partnership with the fund, 258 entrepreneurs were granted preferential loans in the amount of 7 million manat ($4.1 million) in 2022 to finance various investment projects.

"This tool is a good way to encourage business activity. Over the past year, we fully used this resource, and by the end of 2022, we received additional funds, increasing the limit. This year we have been allocated 10 million manat ($5.8 million) from the fund," the chairman said.

In addition, to support start-up entrepreneurs, in 2022, the bank allocated a total of more than 45 million manat ($26 million) in the form of business development loans to 4,000 entrepreneurs aged 18 to 30 years.

"The economic activity of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises is the highest one, and in this regard, all our attention is focused on this segment. In this area, we have programs to support not only youth, but also women's entrepreneurship," added Tsiklauri.

Speaking about AccessBank's cooperation with international financial institutions, Tsiklauri noted that for further growth it is necessary to raise additional funds, and therefore the bank is currently negotiating with a number of overseas financial institutions.
Ghana's Ministry of Interior has declared Monday, April 24, 2023, as a public holiday to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr, a significant religious festival celebrated by Muslims worldwide.



The announcement was made by the Minister for the Interior, Ambrose Dery, on Tuesday, April 18, 2023.



According to the statement released by the Ministry, Saturday, April 22, 2023, marks Eid-ul-Fitr, which is a Statutory Public Holiday.



However, since this date falls on a Saturday, the President of the Republic of Ghana, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has in accordance with Section 2 of the Public Holidays and Commemorative Days Act (Act 601), has declared Monday, April 24, 2023, as an additional Public Holiday. This additional holiday is to be observed throughout the country.



The decision to declare Monday, 24th April, 2023, as an additional Public Holiday is in recognition of the significance of the Eid-ul-Fitr festival to Muslims in Ghana. It also provides an opportunity for Muslims and non-Muslims alike to celebrate the festival and engage in activities that promote unity, harmony, and peaceful co-existence.



The Ministry of Interior has urged all citizens to observe the Public Holiday and use the occasion to reflect on the values of Eid-ul-Fitr, such as forgiveness, kindness, and generosity. The Ministry has also advised citizens to abide by COVID-19 safety protocols and celebrate the holiday in a responsible manner.



The announcement has been warmly received by Ghanaians, with many expressing their gratitude to the government for the additional Public Holiday. This gesture is seen as a recognition of the diversity of Ghana's population and a reflection of the government's commitment to promoting religious tolerance and inclusivity.









Source: graphiconline.com









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The Director General of the National Lottery Authority of Ghana, Sammi Awuku, has praised vice President Mahamudu Bawumia by emphatically stating that through him, Ghanaians got to understand the electoral process.



and it was through Dr. Bawumia that we got to understand the electoral process. Because with many Ghanaians, they were only casting their vote without understanding the process, he said as he serialized the contributions of vice President Bawumia to our national elections.



Mr. Awukus assertions were based on the outcome of the 2012 election petition where Dr. Bawumia mounted the witness box for 8 months to testify on behalf of the New Patriotic Party.



Speaking to Gordon Asare Bediako on Movement TVs B3 Kyere Mu show, Mr. Awuku stated that vice President deserves his flowers for withstanding the artillery fire of the NDC when they threw seasoned lawyers like Tsatsu Tsikata and Tony Lithur at him in court during the cross-examination process.



He continued that the whole essence of cross examination is to establish the honesty of the witness and vice President Bawumia according to Mr. Awuku, proved his credibility as witness during the exercise.



For the vice President to be subjected to 8 months of grilling of NDCs artillery fire- the combined effect of Tsatsu Tsikata, Tony Lithur with lawyer Bashit Bamba. To be a star witness for 8 months being on the screens every day, being consistent, not losing your cool because your patience would be tested, your resilience would be tested, your intelligence would be tested and your composure would be tested, he said.



In his view, the contribution of the vice President to Ghanas electoral process cant be discounted because of the major role he has played.



Every generation is credited with a certain responsibility; it took a very good generation of our forefathers to fight for independence. It took another good generation of our uncles and others to also fight for multi-party democracy. It took another great generation of our fathers and our senior colleagues to fight for election 2000 and it had to take another golden generation to win 2016, he said.



Touching on the NPPs flagbearership contest, Mr. Awuku stated that Bawumia is in with very solid competitors but encouraged him to go through that grilling because he is in a leadership contest.



He is in contest with very solid competitors- Boakye Agyarko, a very solid brain and an achiever, Hon Alan is a distinguished personality, take a look at Kwabena Agyei Agyapong he understands the party. Kennedy Ohene Agyapong is also a great person, Joe Ghartey is a distinguished personality and the others, he said.









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Member of Parliament for Builsa South, Clement Apaak, has stated that the seat of Ghana's presidency will revert to its original name of Flagstaff House from the current Jubilee House.



President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo changed the name to Jubilee House in 2018, two years after assuming office.



Apaak said in a tweet sighted by GhanaWeb and dated April 16, that Mahama will seek to reinstate history by reversing the name change come 2025 when he assumes office.



"JM will govern Ghana from Flagstaff House not Jubilee House! The true history of Ghana will be reinstated under JM, be rest assured," his tweet read.



It was in reference to a GhanaWeb story about how Mahama in an address to party faithful in Nsawam last week had opted to refer to the presidency as Flagstaff House instead of Jubilee House.



Mahama signalling the Jubilee House will revert to Flagstaff House?



The former president in an address to party faithful in Nsawam last week had cause to speak extensively about the office of the president.



Among others, Mahama who is campaigning for the presidential flagbearership of National Democratic Congress (NDC) boasted of knowing the place well having been the first occupant of the edifice as a president.



In his address, he referred to the place currently known as Jubilee House by its old name Flagstaff House.



7th January 2017, I showed Akufo-Addo around the Flagstaff House, where he will sit, his vice president, cabinet office, his meeting and conference rooms, I am the one who showed him around.



So, I was asking a question, on 7th January 2025, who will show John Mahama around the Flagstaff House? he asked party faithful at the St. Martins Secondary School in Nsawam.



I opened Flagstaff House and I am the first president to have worked from there, it is true it was built by president Kufuor but I was the first president to stay at Flagstaff House.



So, after my inauguration, I will drive straight to Flagstaff House and start work, he said to cheers from the supporters.



About the Jubilee House



Jubilee House, is the presidential palace in Accra that serves as a residence and office to the President of Ghana.



Jubilee House is built on the site of a building that was constructed and used for administrative purposes by the British Gold Coast Government. The previous seat of government of Ghana is Osu Castle.



It was renamed Golden Jubilee House by President Nana Addo Danquah Akuffo Addo on 29th March 2018. It has previously been known as The Flagstaff House.

















Source: ghanaweb.com









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Eastern Regional Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) Dr. Mark Oliver Kevor says they know locations of properties of persons threatening violence in 2024 election warning that their investments stand to suffer the consequences most if they dare try to hold on to power at all costs.



Dr. Mark Oliver Kevor said this Thursday when addressing NDC delegates from Mpreaso and Abetifi constituencies as part of last day of John Mahamas visit to Eastern region.



We know the locations of properties of those threatening never to hand over power. They know that when there is electoral violence their properties will be affected. So their threats are empty. They dont mean it. NPP is afraid of John Dramani Mahama, he said.



The comment by Dr. Mark Oliver Kevor appears to be subtle response to the recent controversial threat by Bryan Acheampong, Minister of Food and Agriculture that the NPP will never hand over power to NDC, and that, will demonstrate that they have the men to clash the NDC if they attempt to cause confusion.



Dr. Mark Oliver Kevor assured the branch and constituency executives not to be intimidated that, the party will support them to secure maximum votes for the NDC in 2024.



He further charged members of the party not to be deceived by what they(NPP) are saying that if we bring a new presiditial candidate they will vote for NDC .We dont know any other person apart from John Mahama.



In his address, former President John Dramani said he is saddened that Akufo-Addo led government has abandoned a world class hospital project he initiated at Abetifi before leaving office in January 2017.



John Mahama assured the next NDC government will ensure all abandoned projects are completed before any new project begins.



He made special promise to the people of Ketepa, a farming and fishing community that their deplorable road will be constructed to Begoro to link Kwahu East to Fanteakwa North District to improve agriculture.



Mr. Mahama stated he will initiate annual meeting with party executives across the country when he becomes president.



This he said, will afford him assess happenings on the ground.



Executives of the NDC at Mpraeso and Abetifi pledged 100% votes for him in the presidential primaries.













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The First Deputy Speaker of Ghanas Parliament and Member of Parliament for Bekwai, Joseph Osei-Owusu, has openly declared support for Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to lead the New Patriotic Party (NPP) into the 2024 elections.



In the view of the deputy speaker, Dr. Bawumia stands for the future of the NPP and Ghana and must be allowed to govern the country from 2025.



The Bekwai MP explained that the reason over 100 NPP MPs have equally thrown their weights behind the vice president is because Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has distinguished himself.



Most of the NPP MPs at the last count were about 118 MPs and I am one of them. I speak for myself and my support for Bawumia, and I know over 100 NPP MPs also support Bawumia, he told the morning show host of Kumasi-based Oyerepa TV, Kwesi Parker-Wilson.



Joewise, as the Bekwai MP is casually known as, also outlined the reasons he believes the vice president is the man to lead the party.



He argued that Bawumia stands for the future because of the impact he has had on digitalizing the Ghanaian economy.



He added that digitization has taken over the world, and soon, Ghanaian youth may want to travel to Europe for greener pastures, but with this intervention by the vice president, they can simply sit here in Ghana, work for European companies, and get paid.



This is where Dr. Bawumia is leading the country to. Again, since I became an MP, Dr. Bawumia has kept faith with the constituency by honouring every single invitation to come and assist with programs and activities within my constituency. He was practically aligning with party activities. So, its my contention that when given the opportunity, Dr. Bawumia will connect well with the grassroots.



I am a moderate person, and I see Dr. Bawumia to also be a moderate person in his views and he is also more focused and result oriented. He doesnt like too much talk but gets the job done, he stated.



















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As part of effort to strengthen the support base of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Volta Region, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Marrer Ghana Limited and Susagtad Boat Building, Mr. Novihoho Afaglo has visited the camp of Member of Parliament for Ketu South Constituency, Mrs. Dzifa Abla Gomashie.



The visit was to touch-base with the grassroots and also support the campaign of the MP to cheer party supporters up for the preparation towards the upcoming party primaries.



Mr. Afaglo charged the teaming supporters of the MP to embrace themselves up and work heard to retain the seat for the party.



He advised the parliamentary candidate to be optimistic, resolute and above all also exhibit clean campaign as they prepare for the upcoming primaries.



He charged the candidates and the other contestants to display unity, love and togetherness during and after this internal contest.



Mr. Afaglo called on the contestants to do a descent campaign and appealed to the supporters of all sides to exercise moderation in utterances to curb disunity.



I want to use this medium to remind delegates to vote for Mrs Abla Gomashie to continue her good work in the Ketu South constituency, he stated.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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Seasoned Journalist, Kwesi Pratt Jnr. has cautioned Ghana against the repercussions of seeking a bailout from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).



After numerous negotiations with the IMF for a $3 billion bailout, Ghana is set to secure the aid from the Fund.



Ghana expects the International Monetary Fund's board to approve the loan in May this year, Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta said in a presentation on Thursday.



As the nation awaits the release of the $3 billion loan, Kwesi Pratt believes the deal will aggravate the plight of Ghanaians than being a blessing to the citizenry.



He explained that the loan is purposed to settle Ghana's debts and is expected to be repaid by the year 2026 which, to him, invariably means the country will be paying back more than it's received.



"What's coming is bigger than us," he cautioned.



Also, he noted that the IMF deal means that there will be no more employment for majority of the youth in the nation.



"As a matter of fact, on the contrary, because of the IMF deal; the youth won't find employment. On the contrary, due to the IMF deal, all government interventions to cushion us are going to be removed to increase our hardships," he pitied Ghanaians while making his submissions on Peace FM's 'Kokrokoo' show.



"I want someone who can boldy tell us one country that went to IMF and is financially doing well. There is none!", he stressed.





Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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Santander Bank is laying off 77 people.

The company filed a warn (Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification) notice with the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry informing the state of the layoffs at its facility at 450 Penn St. in Reading, Berks County.

The bank said the employees are involved in various aspects of Santanders operations and call center teams.

The layoff is due to the companys eventual exit from the work site, the company said in the WARN notice dated April 17.

The bank also said that the decision is the result of changes to streamline the banks processes and its operating model, and said changes will be implemented over the next year.

The Department of Labor & Industry in Harrisburg, Pa. (Daniel Urie, PennLive)

Santander said the employees were notified of the layoffs on Monday.

The layoffs are expected to be permanent. However, Santander said those people impacted by the layoffs will be eligible to be rehired and are able to apply for other vacant positions that may be available within the company. The bank said it is actively working to connect as many impacted employees as possible with new roles. The layoffs are expected to begin on or about June 30. The layoffs may come in stages thereafter.

Employees impacted by the layoffs who work through their end date are eligible for severance benefits. The bank said severance-eligible employees will receive outplacement services.

Team member reductions are never easy for either the team member or for Santander, the bank said in the WARN notice. We continue to make every effort to minimize the impact and ease the transition for our affected team members.

The WARN Act is federal legislation that offers protection to workers, their families and communities by requiring employers to provide notice 60 days in advance of a covered-business closing and covered-business mass layoff.

Santander Bank has 33 banking branches in central Pennsylvania.

Sign up for Eat, Shop, Go, a weekly report from PennLive on food, restaurants, business, retail centers, things to do and places to go all around central Pa. Sign up for free by clicking here.
A body was found inside a burning vehicle in Philadelphia on Tuesday, according to media reports.

The body, burned beyond recognition, was discovered in a Honda CRV parked along the 5900 block of Sylvester Street.

Firefighters responded to a report of a car fire around 1 a.m. After putting the fire out, they found the body on the floor of the back seat. The interior of the car was burned out and the windows were broken.

When the fire department arrived, the vehicle was completely engulfed, Philadelphia Police Department Chief Inspector Scott Small said to CBS Philadelphia. You can clearly see theres extensive burn to the inside of the vehicle and the outside of the vehicle. But the inside is completely burned out and where we found this victim, laying on the floorboards in the back.

Police said witnesses saw the SUV being parked shortly before 1 a.m., and that two people were seen leaving it shortly before it burst into flames.

Police said that at this point they do not know the victims age or gender. An arson K9 was at the scene and police said they were hopeful surveillance camera footage could yield some clues.

We know the vehicle in question, the Honda CRV, has not been reported stolen, and it is registered in Philadelphia. We dont know the cause of death of the victim in the back seat, Small said to 6ABC.

The body will be taken to the medical examiners office so that the coroner can try to determine a cause of death and identify the victim.

READ MORE: Woman intentionally turned SUV in front of truck, killing boyfriend, during argument: police
PITTSBURGH  Its been more than four years since Robert Gregory Bowers opened fire on Shabbat services on a gray and rainy fall Saturday  since his name, and by extension Pittsburgh, became inextricably linked to the worst attack on the Jewish faith in American history.

His trial, finally, is imminent.

On Oct. 27, 2018, Pittsburgh joined Charleston, Las Vegas, Parkland, Aurora  another city, another setting, another group of victims, another type of gun.

This time it was Pittsburgh, at a synagogue during Saturday morning services. Eleven worshippers killed, many of them elderly. An AR-15 and three pistols.

The synagogue, a hulking stone building at the intersection of Wilkins and Shady avenues in Squirrel Hill, housed three different congregations  Dor Hadash, New Light and Tree of Life or LSimcha. The latter congregation owned the building, and its name is written in English and Hebrew on the north wall.

Tree of Life became the grim moniker for the massacre, and the 11 Jewish congregants killed there became the faces of the nations worst antisemitic attack: Richard Gottfried, Joyce Fienberg, Rose Mallinger, Jerry Rabinowitz, David and Cecil Rosenthal, Bernice and Sylvan Simon, Daniel Stein, Melvin Wax, Irving Younger.

Two congregants and four police officers were injured in the gunfire.

Jury selection in the federal case against Bowers, 50, begins April 24. He faces 63 charges and the possibility of the death penalty. The trial  from jury selection to sentencing  could last through July.

Bruce Antkowiak, a former federal prosecutor and defense lawyer now teaching law at St. Vincent College, said its highly unusual for a case to move so slowly from indictment to trial.

The defense in a case like this wants to get distance between the event and the trial in the hopes that the impact of the event will have somewhat dissipated, he said. The courts are also interested in that, to a degree, because it makes it possible that you could get a jury from the area rather than have to go outside the area to get a jury.

Bullet holes can be seen in a shattered window at Tree of Life Congregation on Sunday, Oct. 28, 2018, in Squirrel Hill. Eleven people were killed, along with other injures on Saturday. (Andrew Stein/Pittsburgh Post-Gazette/TNS)TNS

Theres another dynamic at play, Antkowiak said  one more specific to lead defense attorney Judy Clarke. Clarke, based in San Diego, has carved out a niche representing some of the countrys most notorious criminals. Her specialty with those clients  who include Ted Kaczynski, the Unabomber, and Eric Rudolph, the Atlanta Olympic Park bomber  is making deals for their lives.

This is a case where theres little debate about what happened and who is responsible, Antkowiak noted  Bowers, after all, has tried to plead guilty. Prosecutors, though, have refused a plea deal.

The only real question is whether he will be sentenced to death.

His lawyer spends an enormous amount of time with the client trying to establish a rapport and trying to develop all possible angles of dissents that can be developed, Antkowiak said of Clarkes style. All of those things are going to take much longer than a normal case.

Acting U.S. Attorney Troy Rivetti is prosecuting the case. Others on the prosecution team include Assistant U.S. Attorneys Soo C. Song, Eric G. Olshan and Nicole Vasquez Schmitt.

Among their challenges, Antkowiak said, will be arguing Bowers crimes warrant a death sentence from the start of the trial all the way through sentencing. That can be a fine line for prosecutors to walk, Antkowiak said, especially if they argue that the death penalty is for retribution.

If you understand retribution to be vengeance, [that idea] is a dangerous one for the prosecution, he said.

In some cases, prosecutors may argue that the death penalty is not for vengeance but rather to draw a line and say that society cannot tolerate such behavior.

The death penalty is going to hang over everything

The mood and feel throughout the federal courthouse  a monolith of a building rising 14 floors out of its 2.3-acre footprint on Grant Street  will no doubt be tense. But how it all eventually ends will cast a grim pall over everything else, said Bruce Ledowitz, a Duquesne University law professor.

The only reason this case is going to trial is because of the death penalty, he said. The death penalty is going to hang over everything, and everybody is going to be thinking about the death penalty all the time.

In terms of a conviction, its obvious, he added.

Thousands gather at Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall for a vigil to remember the victims of the mass shooting at the Tree of Life Congregation synagogue on Sunday, Oct. 28, 2018, in Oakland. (Andrew Rush/Pittsburgh Post-Gazette/TNS)TNS

Indeed, Bowers has sought to plead guilty in exchange for a life sentence numerous times throughout years of proceedings. The government has declined to strike such a deal. The back and forth between the prosecutors and defense lawyers  pointed bickering in the form of federal court filings  began cordially enough. But 4 1/2 years later, it has at times devolved into scathing quarrels on paper.

The defendant has not even attempted to provide any cause, much less good cause, for blatantly ignoring this courts pretrial motions deadline, prosecutors wrote in one recent court filing.

In May, prosecutors asked the presiding judge to bring Bowers into the courtroom in person and make sure hes aware of the rights hes waiving every time his lawyers have waived his right to be present during hearings. U.S. District Judge Donetta Ambrose oversaw the case until her retirement early last year, and prosecutors had previously but unsuccessfully asked her to bring Bowers before the court. U.S. District Judge Robert J. Colville will oversee the trial.

Prosecutors have proposed setting aside 20 of the courtrooms 40 gallery seats for survivors, victims families and any people they might need for support. Theyve also proposed that four seats behind the defense table be set aside for Bowers family. Any remaining seats would be reserved for members of the media and the public on a first-come, first-served basis.

Any homicide trial, Antkowiak said, has a different atmosphere.

You have the family of the defendant on one side, the family of the victim on the other, and that alone creates a level of tension in the room that is palpable, he said.

The evidence against the shooter

After a jury is selected, the trial will likely take place in three phases. First comes a guilt phase, in which the jury determines whether or not Bowers is guilty of the 63 federal charges against him. If the jury convicts him, a second phase would determine whether Bowers is eligible for the death penalty, before a final third phase to decide whether he is actually sentenced to death.

Recent court filings give some insight into the evidence prosecutors intend to present.

The FBI investigates after an active shooter situation at Tree of Life Congregation on Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018, in Squirrel Hill. Eleven people were killed, along with multiple injuries. (Andrew Stein/Pittsburgh Post-Gazette/TNS)TNS

In an April 3 filing, prosecutors asked Judge Colville to allow 911 recordings and police dashboard and body-worn camera footage to be allowed into evidence, along with some autopsy and crime scene photos.

They argued the graphic images are a necessary part of the initial guilt phase of the trial.

Images of the 11 deceased victims with the synagogue are extremely probative of the defendants specific intent and motive  that is, that he violently and lethally targeted victim congregants because they were Jewish and while they were engaged in the practice of their faith, the attorneys wrote.

The U.S. Attorneys Office has also signaled that it intends to play numerous 911 calls made during the rampage, including ones from victims who were killed.

As the audio recordings of those calls make clear, prosecutors wrote, the callers were terrified, were hiding from the defendant, and were hearing and describing gunshots, describing injuries to dispatchers, assisting law enforcement by identifying where they were hiding and suggesting possible means for law enforcement to enter the building, and screaming as they spoke to 911 operators.

Some of the calls lasted about an hour. Others lasted about a minute. The callers are identified in court filings only by their initials.

Prosecutors have also asked to present video and audio evidence captured by cameras in police cars and worn by officers, as well as radio calls by police to dispatchers. Specifically, they noted, in audio from some of those radio calls, the officers simultaneously relay statements by the defendant. Body-worn cameras, they wrote, captured Bowers statements as he was being taken from the synagogue and transported to Allegheny General Hospital.

Investigators have alleged from the beginning that Bowers expressed his hatred of Jews in the synagogue and to the police, making the attack a hate crime.

Theyre committing genocide to my people, I just want to kill Jews, Bowers said at the time, according to the charges against him. Investigators have said he reiterated those comments and repeated his desire to kill Jewish people.

Bowers lawyers tried unsuccessfully to have those statements suppressed.

Other pieces of evidence that defense attorneys tried to quash also give clues as to what might be presented at trial: evidence seized from Bowers home, car and post office box, geolocation data collected from his phone and car, and evidence pulled from his cell phone and from social media sites.

Members of Pittsburgh's Dawoodi Bohra Muslim community place flowers at the memorial in front of the Tree of Life synagogue, Sunday, Oct. 28, 2018, in the Squirrel Hill neighborhood of Pittsburgh. (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette/TNS)TNS

Among Bowers online profiles was one on Gab, a platform popular with far-right extremists. Investigators said Bowers used that account to espouse antisemitic views, including statements like jews are the children of satan (sic) and a photo of a body burning in a Holocaust crematorium with the caption, Make Ovens 1488 degrees Again.

Just over a week before jury selection, it remained unclear how many statements from victims might be delivered during a potential sentencing phase, nor was it clear whether anyone from Bowers personal life might testify on his behalf.

Bowers attorneys said in court filings last month they intend to introduce evidence indicating their client has schizophrenia, epilepsy and other neurological issues.

Defense lawyers, Antkowiak said, are going to try  in one way, shape or form  to reconstruct the defendants life for this jury. Their entire psychological-social history will be developed to give the jury the full perspective on them.

Clarke, he said, has been relatively successful in arguing to jurors that a person accused and convicted of a serious crime is a person nonetheless.

The government, on the other hand, will work to show that the shooting was part of a deep-seated plan, executed in a precise way and with a larger perspective in mind.

This development of this as a pathological act is important to the governments position, Antkowiak said, that this is one of those rare cases for which this (the death penalty) is appropriate.

Megan Guza of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette wrote this story.

(c)2023 the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Visit the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette at www.post-gazette.com

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. Over the past three decades, friendly interstate relations between Azerbaijan and Israel have reached the level of a strategic alliance based on mutual understanding on most international issues. Strong ties have been created starting from the field of defense to energy sector. Today, the two countries are making every effort to bring trade and cooperation in various field to a qualitatively new level.

In November 2022, Baku announced a historic decision to open an Azerbaijani Embassy in Tel Aviv. The decision to open a diplomatic mission reflects the depth of relations between the two countries and is the result of the efforts to build strong diplomatic bridges.

The upcoming visit of Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen to Azerbaijan, which is scheduled for April 18-19, is yet another proof of rapidly evolving bilateral relations.

Azerbaijan's trade turnover with Israel from January through February 2023 amounted to $334.1 million, which is 26.36 percent more year-on-year. The country's share in Azerbaijan's total trade turnover accounted for 4.66 percent. According to Israeli Ambassador to Azerbaijan George Deek, the trade turnover between Azerbaijan and Israel is expected to double this year.

One of the areas with high potential for development is high-tech industry. In July 2022, Azerbaijan Investment Company and Israels OurCrowd company, the leading global capital crowdfunding platform have signed an investment agreement. In February this year, Azerbaijani Economy Ministry announced that the first investment in the amount of $1 million has already been made from the Azerbaijani side, particularly, in Israeli LARGIX startup, which specializes in the development of industrial products.

The Azerbaijani-Israeli partnership in the innovation and IT sector has huge potential and will expand further within the framework of joint projects aimed at creating startup ecosystems, developing specialized incubation centers and technology parks, or cybersecurity, and much more.

Cooperation in the energy field between the two countries is another pillar of successful relations development. Israel already imports one third of its oil needs from Azerbaijan. There is, of course, always more to offer. Azerbaijani State Oil Company (SOCAR), having vast experience in the oil and gas industry, can hugely contribute to the growth of this sphere in Israel.

Naturally, cooperation in the field of green energy is probably one of the most important areas on the expansion of which both the countries will concentrate on in the coming years. Having got tremendous experience in the field of renewables, Israel has repeatedly expressed its readiness to take part in the implementation of green energy projects in Karabakh or in other parts of Azerbaijan.

So far, according to the latest data, some 10-15 Israeli companies have already applied to take part in projects in Karabakh through the Israeli Embassy in Azerbaijan. The actual number of companies willing to contribute to the restoration of Azerbaijans liberated lands is even higher. In this regard, Israel has a lot to propose in several fields, beside green energy, such as water management, agriculture, health, innovations, or smart cities.

Another very promising and rapidly developing field in bilateral cooperation is agriculture sector. There are already several projects that are in the pipeline with the Israeli agricultural private sector, which include grain and stock storage project, some projects on dairy farms, orchid cultivation and many more. Azerbaijan-Israel Innovation Forum on the "Agriculture and Education" held recently in Baku is another confirmation of how this cooperation is important for both the countries. With its innovative technologies, Israel will contribute to the increase in Azerbaijans agriculture production and export.

Indeed, the two countries can already be called the biggest players of their own regions. Despite the fact that geographically Azerbaijan and Israel are not so close, both countries have been able to establish such strong and successful ties, which is sometimes not possible for the nearest neighbors to do so. Azerbaijan is now a forefront actor when it comes to such global issues as transport connectivity or energy security. Here is where Israels experience and technology is vital. By strengthening bilateral ties, the two countries can exploit new opportunities for the benefit of all countries in the wider region, opening new horizons.
The Philadelphia-area woman woke up from anesthesia with the feeling someone had probed her pelvic area. She couldnt get answers from the hospital.

But another doctor eventually told her its entirely possible she was given a pelvic exam by a medical student. At some teaching hospitals, medical students perform pelvic exams on unconscious patients, sometimes without their consent.

To her that was shocking and when she described it to me, I was horrified as well, says state Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler.
ABCs Live has a new co-host.

Mark Consuelos, 52, made his debut as the official permanent co-host, sharing the spotlight with his wife, 52-year-old Kelly Ripa, according to news sources.

Ryan Seacrest hosted alongside Ripa since 2017 before recently saying his goodbyes.

The long-running morning show talk show went from Live With Kelly and Ryan to Live With Kelly and Mark, where the pair walked out  hand in hand  to a newly decorated set complete with new signs and new coffee mugs.

Ripa originally hosted alongside the late Regis Philbin in 2001 and then Michael Strahan before Seacrest took over for six years, according to reports from Yahoo and New York Daily News.

I just want to say a quick thank you for trusting me to be your co-pilot, Consuelos told Ripa at the beginning of the episode. I really appreciate it.

After co-hosting alongside his wife almost 100 times in the past, Consuelos clearly knows what to expect.

Its as if youve always been here, Ripa remarked as viewers watched a montage of past Mark moments on the show.

Clearly, this isnt the first time the actors worked together. The dynamic duo played hot couple Hayley and Mateo on All My Children in the 90s before becoming an item in real life and getting married in 1996. The couple now has three kids together.

21-year-old Lola Consuelos was in the audience supporting her parents along with the couples longtime friends MLB star Willie Randolph and his wife Gretchen, according to reports.

A billboard of the couple turned co-hosts was revealed outside the NYC studio, as well as their images on the marquee above the Good Morning America studio in Times Square, Yahoo reported.

This is all feeling very permanent, Consuelos said. Ripa then replied, Oh honey, as you know  nothing here is permanent  except for me, evidentially. She added that he cant back out now! Youre in.

Read More:
WILMINGTON, Del.  Fox News agreed Tuesday to pay Dominion Voting Systems nearly $800 million to avert a trial in the voting machine companys lawsuit that would have exposed how the network promoted lies about the 2020 presidential election.

The stunning settlement emerged just as opening statements were supposed to begin, abruptly ending a case that had embarrassed Fox News over several months and raised the possibility that network founder Rupert Murdoch and stars such as Tucker Carlson and Sean Hannity would have to testify publicly.

The truth matters. Lies have consequences, Dominion lawyer Justin Nelson told reporters outside a Delaware courthouse after Superior Court Judge Eric Davis announced the deal.

Outside of the $787.5 million promised to Colorado-based Dominion, it was unclear what other consequences Fox would face. Fox acknowledged in a statement the courts rulings finding certain claims about Dominion to be false, but no apology was offered.

We are hopeful that our decision to resolve this dispute with Dominion amicably, instead of the acrimony of a divisive trial, allows the country to move forward from these issues, Fox said. Its lawyers and representatives offered no other comment or details about the settlement.

Asked by a reporter whether there was anything to this other than money, Dominion CEO John Poulos did not answer.

The deal is a significant amount of money even for a company the size of Fox. It represents about one-quarter of the $2.96 billion the company reported earning last year before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization  a figure often used to approximate a companys cash flow.

The settlement also follows a $965 million judgment issued against Alex Jones by a Connecticut jury in 2022 for spreading false conspiracy theories about the Sandy Hook school massacre.

Coupled with other lawsuits in the pipeline, the agreement shows there is a real financial risk for conservative media that traffic in conspiracy theories. What remains unknown is how much of a deterrent this will be. Even as the Dominion case loomed this spring, Foxs Tucker Carlson aired his alternate theories about what happened at the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection.

Attorneys for Dominion Voting Systems speak at a news conference outside New Castle County Courthouse in Wilmington, Del., after the defamation lawsuit by Dominion Voting Systems against Fox News was settled just as the jury trial was set to begin, Tuesday, April 18, 2023. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)AP

Dominion had sued Fox for $1.6 billion, arguing that the top-rated news outlet had damaged the companys reputation by peddling phony conspiracy theories that claimed its equipment switched votes from former President Donald Trump to Democrat Joe Biden. Davis, in an earlier ruling, said it was CRYSTAL clear that none of the allegations about Dominion aired on Fox by Trump allies were true.

Dominion set out to prove in the lawsuit that Fox acted with malice in airing allegations that it knew to be false, or with reckless disregard for the truth. It presented volumes of internal emails and text messages that showed Fox executives and personalities saying they knew the accusations were untrue, even as the falsehoods were aired on programs hosted by Maria Bartiromo, Lou Dobbs and Jeannine Pirro.

Records released as part of the lawsuit showed that Fox aired the claims in part to win back viewers who were fleeing the network after it correctly called hotly contested Arizona for Democrat Joe Biden on election night. One Fox Corp. vice president called them MIND BLOWINGLY NUTS.

During a deposition, Murdoch testified that he believed the 2020 election was fair and had not been stolen from Trump.

Fox knew the truth, Dominion argued in court papers. It knew the allegations against Dominion were outlandish and crazy and ludicrous and nuts. Yet it used the power and influence of its platform to promote that false story.

Several First Amendment experts said Dominions case was among the strongest they had ever seen. But there was real doubt about whether Dominion would be able to prove to a jury that people in a decision-making capacity at Fox could be held responsible for the networks actions.

Dominions Nelson called the settlement a tremendous victory and noted that there are six more lawsuits pending regarding election claims.

Representatives of Fox News arrive at the justice center in Wilmington, Del., for the Dominion Voting Systems' defamation lawsuit against Fox News, Tuesday, April 18, 2023.(AP Photo/Matt Rourke)AP

We settled because it was about accountability, Nelson said in an interview. Our goals were to make sure that there was accountability for the lies, and to try to make our client right. And we accomplished both goals.

Its hard to tell what the deal will mean financially for Dominion. The company would not provide its most recent earnings, saying the figures were not public.

In the weeks leading up to the trial, Davis significantly narrowed Foxs potential line of defense, including nixing the networks argument that it was merely airing newsworthy allegations. Newsworthiness is not a defense against defamation, he said.

In a March 31 ruling, he pointedly called out the network for airing falsehoods while noting that bogus election claims still persist more than two years after Trump lost his bid for reelection.

The statements at issue were dramatically different than the truth, Davis said in that ruling. In fact, although it cannot be attributed directly to Foxs statements, it is noteworthy that some Americans still believe the election was rigged.

In its defense, Fox said it was obligated to report on a president who claimed that he had been cheated out of reelection.

We never reported those to be true, Fox lawyer Erin Murphy said. All we ever did was provide viewers the true fact that these were allegations that were being made.

Dominion had sued both Fox News and its parent, Fox Corp, and said its business had been significantly damaged. Fox said the company grossly overestimated its losses, before agreeing to pay about half of what Dominion had asked for.

In a 1964 case involving The New York Times, the U.S. Supreme Court limited the ability of public figures to sue for defamation. The court ruled that plaintiffs needed to prove that news outlets published or aired false material with actual malice  knowing such material was false or acting with a reckless disregard for whether or not it was true.

This artist sketch depicts Dominion Voting Systems attorney Justin Nelson, standing left, and Fox News attorney Daniel Webb, standing at right, speaking to Judge Eric Davis before finishing jury selection in Delaware Superior Court Tuesday, April 18, 2023, in Wilmington, Del. (Elizabeth Williams via AP)AP

That has provided news organizations with stout protection against libel judgments. Yet the nearly six-decade legal standard has come under attack by some conservatives in recent years, including Trump and Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida, who have argued for making it easier to win a libel case.

The larger importance of the settlement ... is that the high level of protection for news media in a defamation case remains intact from now, said Doreen Weisenhaus, an instructor of media law at Northwestern University.

In documents released in recent months, Fox executives and anchors discussed how not to alienate the audience, many of whom believed Trumps claims of fraud despite no evidence to back them up. Foxs Tucker Carlson suggested a news reporter be fired for tweeting a fact check debunking the fraud claims.

Some of the exhibits were simply embarrassing, such as scornful behind-the-scenes opinions about Trump, whose supporters form the core of the networks viewers. Text exchanges revealed as part of the lawsuit show Carlson declaring, I hate him passionately, and saying that we are very, very close to being able to ignore Trump most nights.

Fox News announced the settlement on Neil Cavutos afternoon news show. Its a done deal, he said. Its a settlement and for at least Fox, it appears to be over.

But Foxs legal problems may not be over. It still faces a defamation lawsuit from another voting technology company, Smartmatic. Its lawyer, Erik Connolly, said Tuesday that Dominions litigation exposed some of the misconduct and damage caused by Foxs disinformation campaign. Smartmatic will expose the rest.

David Bauder, Randall Chase and Geoff Mulvihill of The Associated Press wrote this story. AP writers Jennifer Peltz in New York and Nicholas Riccardi in Denver contributed to this report.

The Associated Press receives support from several private foundations to enhance its explanatory coverage of elections and democracy. See more about APs democracy initiative here. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

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COLUMBUS, Ohio  A TikTok challenge in which people take large doses of Benadryl is being blamed for the death of a 13-year-old Ohio boy.

The parents of Jacob Stevens tell WSYX Channel 6 that their son took 12 to 14 of the over-the-counter antihistamine in an attempt to induce hallucinations. The dosage caused Jacob to have seizures and put him in a hospital, where he reportedly was on a ventilator for a week before he died.

Family members are calling attention to Jacobs death in hopes it will prevent other children from trying the challenge, WSYX reports.

Im going to do anything I can to make sure another child doesnt go through it, Jacobs grandmother, Dianna Stevens, tells WSYX.

The Benadryl challenge is not new. The Food and Drug Administration has for years cautioned against taking the challenge, which has spread on the social media app TikTok. A division of Johnson & Johnson that makes the drug says on a website the challenge is a dangerous trend and should be stopped immediately.

WYSX reports Jacob was described as a well-mannered, funny, loving kid. His parents are pushing for age restrictions to purchase Benadryl and also for the use of TikTok.

The New York Post reports the social media app soon will limit under-18 users to an hour of daily screen time. Users under 13 also will be limited to an hour, but a parent or guardian will need to set or enter a passcode to allow 30 additional minutes.
State officials and advocates from Pennsylvanias Jewish community gathered at the capitol Tuesday for an annual Holocaust commemoration ceremony, with several political leaders sharing their families own connections to the genocide.

The memorial event has been held for 39 years, according to Jonathan Goldman of the Pennsylvania Jewish Coalition, the events organizer. But the ceremony has taken on a further significance, several speakers remarked, since the Tree of Life synagogue shooting in Pittsburgh, which killed 11 people.

The largest mass killing of Jews in American history happened not in 1939, but in 2018, Rep. Dan Frankel, D-Allegheny, reminded the crowd, warning also of a growing willingness by some public figures to publicly associate themselves with purveyors of hate online and even on the campaign trail.

Antisemitism is not a dragon that we slay but a wildfire that we battle back to its embers only to battle again tomorrow as errant sparks flare up, Frankel said.

One of the ways to do that, Tuesdays speakers said, is to continue to tell the stories and remember the ongoing impact of those vents that happened decades ago.

It can be a tremendous burden. You live knowing that your family lived, while many others did not, said Rep. Mike Schlossberg, D-Lehigh, the grandson of Holocaust survivors.

But at the same time, there should be a joy and a gratitude in the life that we all continue to live, Schlossberg said.

Likewise, Rep. Aaron Kaufer, R-Luzerne, recalled visiting the graves of relatives in Europe who did not survive, recalling the quote from author and Holocaust survivor Elie Wiesel that in any society, fanatics who hate dont only hate methey hate you, too. They hate everybody.

The event coincided with the traditional day of Holocaust remembrance in Israel, the Yom HaShoah, and included the lighting of candles in memory of survivors who have passed.

Roughly six million Jews were killed in Nazi Germanys World War II-era extermination system, a number which grows by millions more if one includes the killing of other groups considered undesirable by the Nazi regime - such as the disabled, LGBTQ people, the Romani, and others.

While the scale of the violence stands stark even today, at times I worry we are forgetting, said Debra Bogen, acting Pennsylvania Secretary of Health, citing a recent rise in hate crimes.

I ask all of us gathered here today to not be a bystander, when it comes to confronting hate, said Bogen, whose father and aunts survived the Holocaust in German-occupied Poland.

FBI data shows 10,840 incidents of hate crime nationwide in 2021; although data collection changes make comparisons tricky, this is a two-decade high in reported hate crimes, according to the Anti-Defamation League.

While the most common offenses were intimidation and vandalism, the FBI data also includes thousands of hate-related assaults, as well as 19 rapes and 18 murders for 2021.

Anti-Black hate crimes were the most common, although increases were seen across the board, according to the ADL analysis, including a 16 percent rise in antisemitic assaults.

We have a responsibility as Jews here in Pennsylvania and in Harrisburg to remain vigilant, to remain strong, said Rabbi Howard Finkelstein of Harrisburgs Kesher Israel Synagogue.
By Amanda Christman, The Citizens Voice, Wilkes-Barre, Pa. (TNS)

HAZLETON  The man police charged Monday in connection with a shooting this month at a busy city restaurant still has a bullet lodged near his spine because his intended target fired back, police said.

Hazleton police said Cristian R. Soto Tejeda, 25, fired 15 9mm bullets immediately upon entering Sazon Latino Restaurant and Lounge on North Wyoming Street, around 6:23 a.m. April 3. Hes charged with three felony counts of aggravated assault and one felony of firing a gun into an occupied building; and 16 counts of reckless endangerment  one for each of the people inside the business at the time of the shooting.

Soto, who has no prior arrests, aimed to hit Kenduar Puello Arias, but instead two bullets struck a man eating breakfast and one grazed a restaurant worker, according to police.

At Sotos arraignment on Monday before Magisterial District Judge James Dixon, Hazle Twp., police said Puello fired back at Soto, injuring him.

Dixon was about to remand Soto to jail, deeming him a danger to society, until he learned Soto still had serious medical complications. After some deliberation, Dixon decided to release Soto to home confinement on $100,000 unsecured bail, but with conditions.

The shooting was the continuation of an earlier dispute at a club in Lehighton, Carbon County, according to police.
By Jeremy Roebuck, The Philadelphia Inquirer (TNS)

A Delaware man who confessed to drunkenly snapping a finger off an ancient Chinese terra-cotta warrior statue at the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia pleaded guilty Monday to a federal misdemeanor charge that could send him to prison for up to a year.

The guilty plea from Michael Rohana, 29, of Bear, Del., came more than five years after his prank at the museums 2017 ugly sweater Christmas party sparked an international incident with China, exposed Pennsylvanias most popular museum to questions about its security failures and eventually landed Rohana at the center of a case that confounded the art world.

A jury failed to reach a verdict during a previous trial, hung up on whether the value of the digit Rohana damaged exceeded $5,000  the threshold for the felony charge he originally faced.

As part of the deal with prosecutors cemented in court Monday, both sides acknowledged the value of the filched finger was less than $500  slashing the punishment Rohana will face at his sentencing this summer by more than a decade.

Despite that concession, Assistant U.S. Attorney K.T. Newton said after Mondays proceedings that prosecutors still maintained Rohana had caused incalculable damage to a priceless artifact central to Chinese history. She explained the plea deal by saying the government was mindful of court time and resources while still satisfied that justice was being carried out in the case.

The statue  a life-size figure known as The Calvaryman, insured at $4.5 million  is one of the few fully restored terra-cotta figures of the thousands recovered in fragments from the tomb of Chinas first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, who united the nation under his rule in the third century B.C.

The Chinese government strictly regulates display and restoration of the 2,000-year-old relics and had spent years reviewing the Franklin Institutes security protocols and exhibit plans before choosing it in 2017 as one of two U.S. museums to host a traveling exhibit of the statues recovered from the emperors tomb.

That exhibition, between September 2017 and March 2018, coincided with one of the institutes periodic Science After-Hours events, programs aimed at attracting adults and often featuring themed activities and alcohol sales.

Rohana  dressed in a fuzzy green sweater and a Phillies cap  drove in with friends from Delaware for one such event, a holiday-themed party during which he stole away from the festivities to explore.

Security footage showed him skulking past a roped-off stanchion, up a ramp and into the darkened room that housed the closed terra-cotta warrior exhibit. He snapped selfies, mugging for the camera while he grabbed one of the statues in a side embrace.

Before sneaking back out, he paused to examine one more  The Cavalryman  reached out to touch its hand, grasped its left thumb and pulled. Testifying during his trial in 2019, Rohana told jurors he panicked after it snapped off in his hands. He shoved it in his jeans pocket and left, later hiding it in a desk drawer in his parents home, where he still lives.

But when FBI agents showed up at his home weeks later  after identifying him from that security footage  Rohana immediately confessed.

I dont know why I broke it, he told the jury. It didnt just happen, but there was never a thought of, I should break this.

Prosecutors initially charged Rohana under the federal art theft statute, a law that requires the items in question be worth more than $5,000 and is more commonly used to prosecute perpetrators of museum heists.

His case marked the first time the statute had been applied to a theft where the motive was not financial gain but the sheer thrill of vandalism.

His guilty plea to one misdemeanor count of trafficking in archaeological resources  a charge much closer to what his attorneys had previously argued was appropriate in his case  negates the need for a second trial.
A suspended Pittsburgh-based criminal defense attorney was arraigned Monday and charged after being accused of attacking a priest at the citys Saint Paul Monastery Saturday morning, according to news sources.

It all began when a 911 call was made about a man, identified as 46-year-old Lawyer Timothy Tomasic, who was making threats inside the monastery office.
Story by Ed Mahon of Spotlight PA and Kate Giammarise of WESA

Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan newsroom powered by The Philadelphia Inquirer in partnership with PennLive/The Patriot-News, TribLIVE/Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and WITF Public Media. Sign up for our free newsletters.
HARRISBURG  A Pennsylvania court on Monday dismissed a challenge to how lawmakers have bundled together five potential state constitutional amendments, including one regarding abortion, on grounds the legal dispute was not ripe for the judges review.

The five-judge Commonwealth Court panel said judges were not passing judgment on the proposed amendments themselves, which Republican leaders pushed through both chambers of the Legislature in the session that ended in November.

Another round of General Assembly approval is still needed, and Judge Lori Dumas wrote that the court did not want to entangle itself in an abstract disagreement with no apparent concrete consequences.

If every alleged misstep in the constitutional amendment process resulted in a lawsuit, then the potential exists for protracted, piecemeal litigation, which could potentially conflict with election-related deadlines, she said in an 11-page order.

The judges dismissed the legal challenge that had been filed against the General Assembly by Democratic then-Gov. Tom Wolf and the woman who served as his acting secretary of state, Leigh Chapman.

Pennsylvania requires constitutional amendments to pass both chambers in two consecutive two-year sessions before a referendum can go before voters, who have the final say. Unlike other forms of legislation, the governor has no role.

The judges dismissed the legal challenge that had been filed against the General Assembly by Democratic then-Gov. Tom Wolf and the woman who served as his acting secretary of state, Leigh Chapman. Wolf, who was succeeded in office in January by fellow Democrat Josh Shapiro, had argued the bundling ran afoul of state constitutional rules that prevent combining changes with multiple, unrelated topics.

One proposed amendment would state the Pennsylvania Constitution does not guarantee any rights relating to abortion or public funding of abortions, which Wolf argued was deceptively compound and should require two separate votes, one regarding the right to an abortion and a second on public funding. Others in the bundle would require that all voters to show IDs, let gubernatorial candidates choose their own running mates, give lawmakers a way to cancel regulations without facing a veto and establish election audits by the state auditor general.

Its unclear if the amendments will have the necessary support in the current Legislature, because the state House has since flipped from a Republican majority to a one-seat Democratic margin.

In the state Senates first consequential vote of the session, Republicans  who still hold a firm state Senate majority  pushed through a different version of the bundled amendments in January. That bill addressed voter ID and the governors power over regulations, and added an amendment that had previously passed both chambers by itself, giving victims of child sexual abuse a new chance to sue perpetrators. Abortion, running mates and election audits were not part of the new amendment bundle.

More:

Pa.s state universities, community colleges commit to joining forces to better serve students

Pa. Senate GOP leader focuses on responsible budget more so than an on-time one
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. Having resolved the Karabakh conflict, Azerbaijan has made a great contribution to global security, the fight against international terrorism, and drug trafficking, and has created an excellent example of successful solutions to such problems that were considered "frozen" for years, Colonel-General Ramil Usubov, Secretary of the Security Council of Azerbaijan, said in an article published in the 'Azerbaijan' newspaper, Trend reports.

He added that this illustrates that Azerbaijan's victory has global significance and is contributing to development and stability at the international level.

Furthermore, Usubov said that Azerbaijan has repeatedly expressed its official position on the issue of the security of Armenians living in Karabakh.

"President Ilham Aliyev has always stated that the Azerbaijani state will ensure not only security but also employment, social welfare, and all the rights of the Armenian population living on our territory. The peace treaty that will be signed will finally bring these people a safe, normal, comfortable life after 30 years," Usubov said.

Following over a month of military action to liberate its territories from Armenian occupation from late Sept. to early Nov. 2020, Azerbaijan has pushed Armenia to sign the surrender document. A joint statement on the matter was made by the Azerbaijani president, Armenia's PM, and the president of Russia.

A complete ceasefire and a cessation of all hostilities in the zone of the Karabakh conflict were introduced on Nov. 10, 2020.

The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, the Armenian Armed Forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts. The 1994 ceasefire agreement was followed by peace negotiations.
Penn Leather, a leather clothing store in Swatara Township near Harrisburg plans to open a store in the King of Prussia Mall in Upper Merion Township, Montgomery County next year.

Owner Felix Fermin said Penn Leather will open at the mall on Sept. 1, 2024.

I think that will be the best choice of my life, he said.

Fermin who calls what he does a lost art, makes leather jackets from scratch.

Penn Leather sells leather jackets, boots and helmets. Fermin said that customers can choose their own style and choose from thousands of types of leather. He said he sells the jackets at wholesale prices eliminating the middle man since he is manufacturing and selling the leather jackets. He also repairs leather garments. The King of Prussia location will be for retail and repairs.

READ MORE: Retailer plans to exit Harrisburg Mall and move to Cumberland County

Penn Leather is leaving the Harrisburg Mall in Swatara Township by the end of the year. Fermin is opening a new location in September on Carlisle Road in Lower Allen Township. That location will serve as the headquarters for Penn Leather after the store at the Harrisburg Mall closes.

Fermin said he has customers from everywhere including Philadelphia, New York and Maryland, and he hopes that opening the new store in King of Prussia will attract new customers.

The King of Prussia Mall recently announced a number of new tenants.

Razer: A gaming lifestyle experience for gamers opened in January. The store has zones dedicated to pro gaming setups, streamers, console gamers, digital creators and apparel. A gaming lifestyle experience for gamers opened in January. The store has zones dedicated to pro gaming setups, streamers, console gamers, digital creators and apparel.

BruMate : The store sells drinkware and coolers and opened in March. The store sells drinkware and coolers and opened in March.

Balenciaga : The Paris-based luxury brand offers shoppers a variety of apparel, footwear, handbags and accessories. The store opened in March.

TravisMathew : The brand is inspired by the culture and lifestyle of southern California. The store sells apparel, shoes and accessories for men, and some apparel for women. The store opened recently. The brand is inspired by the culture and lifestyle of southern California. The store sells apparel, shoes and accessories for men, and some apparel for women. The store opened recently.

Under Armour: The retailer has outlet stores in Pennsylvania but it is opening its first brand house in the state. The store is expected to open later this spring.

Uniqlo : The casual-wear retailer opened in March. The casual-wear retailer opened in March.

Chicken Guy!: From the kitchen of Guy Fieri, this chicken tenders joint will open in the malls Food Court in The Plaza in May.

The King of Prussia Mall is home to more than 450 stores, including Nordstrom, Macys, Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdales, Primark and Dicks Sporting Goods. The mall also has three food courts, and casual and sit-down restaurants.

The king of Prussia Mall is located at 160 N. Gulph Road.

The mall is about 85 minutes from Harrisburg.

--Business Buzz

Sign up for Eat, Shop, Go, a weekly report on food, restaurants, business, retail centers, things to do and places to go all around central Pa. Sign up for free by clicking here.
An OPP officer picks up a bag containing fentanyl as it lies next to cash and a firearm on a display table as Ontario Provincial Police host a news conference in Vaughan, Ont., on Thursday, February 23, 2017. Senior members of President Joe Biden's cabinet will be in Ottawa in the coming weeks to meet with their Canadian counterparts about cracking down on fentanyl. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chris Young
Quebec Independent member of the legislature Catherine Fournier rises during question period, Wednesday, April 3, 2019, at the legislature in Quebec City. Fournier, the mayor of Longueuil, Que., has made her identity public as the sexual assault victim of ex-PQ legislator Harold LeBel. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jacques Boissinot
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. Today marks the 30th anniversary of the genocide committed in April 1993 in the village of Bashlibel in Azerbaijan's Kalbajar district, which is the continuation of the policy of genocide carried out by Armenia on the grounds of intense hatred towards Azerbaijan, Sabina Aliyeva, Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudsman) of Azerbaijan said in an appeal, the Ombudmsan's Office told Trend.

"As a result of this bloody crime of genocide against humanity, the rural population, including children, women, the disabled, and the elderly, was massively killed under cruel torture, as well as burned alive. Some villagers were taken hostage, and they are still considered missing. Once again addressing the world community, we demand to take decisive steps to bring Armenia to international legal responsibility that is guilty of gross violation of fundamental human rights and committed numerous crimes against peaceful Azerbaijanis, including the massacre in Bashlibel" the appeal says..
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. About 30 years have passed since the massacre in the Azerbaijani village of Bashlibel, committed in April 1993 during the occupation of Azerbaijan's Kalbajar region by Armenia, Trend reports.

During that period, some 62 residents of the village, who failed to leave their homes in time, took refuge from the enemy in mountain caves near the village. They stayed there for 18 days. On April 18, the Armenians discovered the location of the villagers. As a result,18 villagers were killed, and 14 were taken, hostage. At the same time, 30 people who managed to escape, were hiding from the enemy for 113 days in other caves. They left their shelters and were able to get out of the Armenian encirclement on July 17, moving along mountain trails at night time.

Information about the tragedy in Bashlibel is also reflected in the annual report of the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor for 2021 which was created in 1977 to help advance individual liberty and democratic freedoms around the world.

After the liberation of the Kalbajar district from occupation, the Azerbaijani side discovered a burial place near the caves of those who were brutally killed by the Armenian armed forces.

Moreover, the testimony of the surviving witnesses confirms that during the massacre in the village, some of the villagers were taken hostage, and they are still considered missing.

In addition, the historical, cultural, and religious sites of Bashlibel, one of the oldest and largest villages of Kalbajar, were destroyed during the occupation.
Super Patrick Leonard Wins the PartyPoker $150K Gtd Sunday Party

April 18, 2023 Matthew Pitt Editor

Team PartyPoker's Patrick "Patrick_Leonard" Leonard enjoyed a super Sunday online at PartyPoker after taking down two high-stakes tournaments, including the online poker site's flagship event, the $150,000 guaranteed Sunday Party.

Leonard triumphed in the Super $320 on April 16, outlasting 101 opponents on his way to collecting $7,983, which included bounties. While marching on to victory in the Super $320, Leonard found himself in the final 15 of the $109 buy-in $150,000 guaranteed Sunday Party.

Some 1,354 players bought into the Sunday Party, leaving a near $15,000 overlay on the $150,000 guarantee, not that any of the player who cashed cared as it meant additional value for them. Day 1 of the Sunday Party ends when only 16 players remain, but the double elimination of "Wuffwuffwuff88" and Leonard's fellow PartyPoker Pro Matt "MatthewStaples" Staples left only 15 players in the hunt for the title, with Leonard fourth in chips going into Day 2.

Day 2 of the Sunday Party which has to be the best MTT online these days. Great structure, overlay, infinite satel https://t.co/96xdGgKP8H  Patrick Leonard (@padspoker)

$150,000 Guaranteed Sunday Party Final Table Results

Place Player Bounties Prize Total Prize 1 Patrick_Leonard $9,290 $9,457 $18,747 2 ScumGame $2,486 $9,441 $11,927 3 Panipak $1,883 $6,237 $8,120 4 Sh0es $1,280 $4,036 $5,316 5 Byblood $1,566 $2,476 $4,312 6 thatsmaadted $492 $2,110 $2,602 7 SixBetShove $632 $1,547 $2,179 8 BlueRedJack $950 $1,225 $2,175 9 Ghggggg $855 $966 $1,821

Day 2 got underway at 7:05 p.m. BST on April 17, and all eyes were on Leonard. The tournament lost a player early on when "Jake.Paul," a finalist in the recent Grand Prix Spring Main Event, crashed out. Eventually, only nine players had chips in front of them, each guaranteed more than $1,800 for their efforts when including bounty payments.

"Ghggggg" busted in ninth for $1,821 before "BlueRedJack" and "SixBetShove" fell by the wayside and saw their bankrolls boosted by $2,175 and $2,179, respectively.

PartyPoker Launches Round the Clock Freerolls; Gives Away $2,500 Daily!

Sixth place and $2,602 went to "thatsmaadted." There was a significant increase in the prize money from that point on, not only because that is how poker tournaments' prize structures work, but also because each of the remaining five players had accumulated four figures worth of scalps.

"Byblood" bowed out in fifth for $4,312, "Sh0es" was eliminated in fourth for $5,316, with the Sunday Party progressing to the heads-up stage following the untimely demise of "Panipak" in third, a finish good for $8,120.

Leonard locked horns and butted heads with "ScumGame" for the title and the lion's share of the $150,000 prize pool. Each of the heads-up players locked in more than $9,400 for their impressive deep runs, leaving the now massive final bounty payments to play for. Leonard got the job done and his hands on a $9,290 bounty, taking his total haul to $18,747, leaving ScumGame to head into the night with an $11,927 runner-up payment.

Absolutely buzzing @partypoker https://t.co/Bh81lkBthh https://t.co/PsmprxNzq4  Patrick Leonard (@padspoker)

Play Your Way Into the Sunday Party For $0.01

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PokerNews has learned there is a MILLIONS Online KO festival on the horizon, with May 4-30 the dates pencilled in right now. Stay tuned to PokerNews in the coming days as we bring you more about this series alongside everything else PartyPoker related.

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Help Yourself to a PartyPoker Welcome Package

Download PartyPoker via PokerNews and deposit at least $10 to receive a 100% match up to $600 welcome bonus in addition to up to $30 worth of free play.

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Residents of the United Kingdom enjoy a slightly different welcome from PartyPoker. Their deposit of at least 10 comes with a 100% match up to 400 first deposit bonus plus $10 worth of Party Dollars, which can be used in any of the site's games every day for six days.

To release the total Deposit Bonus amount, you must accumulate four times the Deposit Bonus amount in loyalty points. Each time the player accumulates 10% of the Total Loyalty Points required, they will receive a 10% increment of the Deposit Bonus
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Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell dodged the question when he was asked about Trump being the leader of the Republican Party while facing criminal charges.

Video:

Question: Are you comfortable with the fact that your partys leading candidate for president is facing criminal charges..

McConnell: I may have hit my head but I didnt hit it that hard. Good try pic.twitter.com/M5kmISh9xc  Acyn (@Acyn) April 18, 2023

CNNs Manu Raju asked McConnell, Are you comfortable with the fact that your partys leading candidate for president is facing criminal charges and a criminal trial in the middle of the election?

McConnell answered, Well, Manu. Let me put it this way. I may have hit my head but I didnt hit it that hard. Good try.

Mitch McConnell is one of the few elected officials within the Republican Party who doesnt need anything from Donald Trump. McConnell has a massive fundraising operation and an ironclad grip on being the Republican leader in the Senate.

If there is any elected official in the Republican Party who could lead the effort to get Trump out of the Republican Party, Mitch McConnell could be one of those people.

The fact that he is choosing not to try to oust Trump from the Republican Party is why the former president is likely to roll through DeSantis and all of the other Republican challengers and win the 2024 Republican presidential nomination.

Mitch McConnell remains a profile in Republican cowardice.
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Republicans in Georgia dont want to go to jail for Trumps fake elector scheme, so they giving evidence to DA Fani Willis.

The Daily Beast reported:

It turns out, these Republican officials and political operatives are now starting to squirm, identifying illegal behavior by their colleagues while trying to save their own skina sudden pivot that came when Willis investigators met with these fake electors last week.

Wednesday and Friday, some of the electors stated that another elector committed acts that are violations of Georgia law and that they were not party to these additional acts, Willis explained in her court filing.

That description means that certain Republicans are now identifying crimes committed by a colleague while distancing themselves from that criminal behavior.

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The problem is that ten of the Republican fake electors are being represented by the same lawyer, which creates a massive conflict of interest. It also appears the lawyer never notified her clients that they had been offered an immunity deal.

Donald Trump, John Eastman, Rudy Giuliani, Mark Meadows, and others at the top of the Trump fake elector scheme should be getting very nervous because push is coming to shove, and these Georgia Republicans arent interested in going to jail for the former president and his allies.

Trump has already been charged with 34 felonies in Manhattan, and he could be facing more severe crimes directly related to violating election laws in Georgia.

New York was just the warm-up for Trump. An indictment in Georgia could be next, and Special Counsel Jack Smiths massive federal investigation is still churning forward at a rapid pace.
A British manufacturer of fine bone china is busy making God Save The King commemorative plates and mugs for King Charles II's May 6 coronation. Craftspeople at the Duchess China factory in the central England city of Stoke-on-Trent painted delicate gold edges on more teacups and saucers this week to make sure there are enough to meet the expected demand for royal souvenirs. Its range of commemorative china features the Union Jack colors of red, white and blue, and come emblazoned with the words God Save the King. The manufacturer said the design was inspired by china produced in the 1930s for the coronation of King George VI, Charles grandfather. Read moreUK china maker rolls out souvenirs for king's May coronation
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. The former Karabakh conflict has affected not only the Caucasus but also the Eurasian space, Colonel-General Ramil Usubov, Secretary of the Security Council of Azerbaijan, said in an article published in the official press, Trend reports.

"This conflict was not only a place of intersection, but sometimes a clash of contradictions and interests related to Azerbaijan and Armenia, or the Caucasus. I must say that some superpowers and multinational companies with interests in the region pursued their economic and political interests in connection with this problem," he said.

"And from this point of view, as the head of state noted, for many decades, instead of contributing to the negotiation process, these forces deliberately delayed its solution and created artificial obstacles. The victorious Supreme Commander-in-Chief destroyed all these insidious plans with his determination," he added.

Following over a month of military action to liberate its territories from Armenian occupation from late Sept. to early Nov. 2020, Azerbaijan has pushed Armenia to sign the surrender document. A joint statement on the matter was made by the Azerbaijani president, Armenia's PM, and the president of Russia.

A complete ceasefire and a cessation of all hostilities in the zone of the Karabakh conflict were introduced on Nov. 10, 2020.

The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, the Armenian Armed Forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts. The 1994 ceasefire agreement was followed by peace negotiations.
Carquest K&D Auto Parts is open for business at 310 Hampton Ave. N.E. in Aiken.

The stores owners and operators are Rico and Debbie Riley.

During a ribbon-cutting ceremony April 14, the Rileys donated Carquest gift cards worth $1,500 to the Aiken County Public School District, according to a news release. The automotive technology program at Aiken High School and the automotive technology and diesel technology programs at the Aiken County Career & Technology Center each received a $500 card to purchase automotive tools and other equipment that students will use.

We are thrilled to be open for business in Aiken, said Rico Riley in a prepared statement. Furthermore, we are eager to become active participants in this community through our partnership with the Aiken County Public School District. It is our hope that this donation enhances the overall curriculum of their automotive and diesel technology programs while encouraging students to further their careers in the automotive industry.

The Aiken community has welcomed us with open arms, he added, and we look forward to being their trusted source for automotive parts and products for years to come.

Located in the former home of Harleys Auto Parts, Carquest K&D Auto Parts sells parts and other products to do-it-your-self customers and automobile repair shops.

The stores hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday.

Headquartered in Raleigh, North Carolina, Carquest Corporation is part of the Advance Auto Parts family, which also includes Worldpac and Autopart International, according to carquest.com.

Advance Auto Parts, an automotive aftermarket parts provider, serves more than 1,300 independently-owned and operated Carquest-branded stores in this country, Mexico and the Caribbean.
MOUNT PLEASANT  An Alabama-based breakfast restaurant chain plans to open a second location in the Charleston area in a space that once served morning meals.

Big Bad Breakfast will take over the spot vacated in January by Cabana Burgers & Shakes at 2664 Highway 17, near the recently opened Bohemian Bull restaurant.

Before Cabana Burgers & Shakes' eight-month run at the site, the property housed an Eggs Up Grill location that closed in 2021.

"We have to get through permitting, but we are looking at a mid-July opening there," said Wayne Bumgardner, operating partner of Big Bad Breakfast's other Lowcountry location at 456 Meeting St. in downtown Charleston, which opened in 2019.

"There is not a whole lot that needs to be done there, but it could be a little later in the summer if things don't go as planned," he said. "We've built some time into that schedule, so hopefully we will be open in July."

Bumgardner lamented the closing of Cabana Burgers, which has another location on Johns Island, but "it created an opportunity for us and we are excited about it."

The restaurant will be open 7 a.m.-2:30 p.m. daily, serving a full breakfast menu along with lunch items such as sandwiches, burgers and salads as well as alcoholic beverages that include mimosas, beer and wine.

Bumgardner said the restaurant will need no less than 40 employees. The Meeting Street site employs 47.

Big Bad Breakfast has 15 locations across eight states in the Southeast, with six more in the works, including the East Cooper site. They stretch as far west as Little Rock, Ark., where another one is planned, to as far north as Louisville, Ky.

Others are planned for Huntsville, Ala.; Destin, Fla.; Durham, N.C.; and Chattanooga, Tenn., according to the company's website.
DALLAS  Boeing Co.'s latest setback with production issues means airlines will have fewer planes than they expected to handle big crowds of travelers this summer.

CEO David Calhoun said April 18 that inspections and repairs related to unapproved fuselage parts will prevent the company from delivering dozens of 737 Max jetliners in time for the peak season.

But it won't affect plans to increase the production rate for the best-selling jetliner, he added.

Calhoun said during Boeing's annual shareholder meeting that delivery delays will remove about 9,000 seats from airline schedules this summer.

The CEO didn't give the number of jets used in that calculation, but the number of seats typically in a mid-sized Max suggests that about 50 planes are expected to be delivered late.

The situation is reminiscent of 2022, when production flaws forced Boeing to pause deliveries of its bigger North Charleston-built 787 Dreamliner, requiring carriers to drop some flights and routes.

American Airlines is still feeling the 787 squeeze this year. Last month, the Texas-based carrier said Dreamliner delivery delays prompted it to suspend its Philadelphia-Madrid route for part of May and June so that previously booked passengers could line up new flights or other travel alternatives.

We remain committed to our customers and team members and mitigating the impact of the 787 delivery delays while continuing to offer a robust international network this summer, an American spokesman told The Wall Street Journal on March 24.

As for the Max, Boeing hopes to boost production of the widely used aircraft, which was halted in late 2019 after two of them were involved in crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia that killed 346 passengers and crew members.

Production has not yet returned to pre-crash rates.

Boeing disclosed last week that subcontractor Spirit AeroSystems used a "non-standard manufacturing process" on fittings where the tail is attached to the fuselage of most models of Max jets built since 2019. Boeing said then that the issue could cause delays in production and deliveries of a "significant number" of the planes.

Calhoun repeated the company's position that the fittings do not present a safety issue for aircraft already carrying passengers. The Federal Aviation Administration has not ordered airlines to do anything with those jets.

Boeing said preliminary results showed that its shareholders elected the 13 board nominees put forward by the company, which lost $5 billion last year and nearly $22 billion since the start of 2019.

Shareholders asked when the company might restore its dividend, which was suspended in early 2020 to conserve cash. Calhoun and Boeing chairman Lawrence Kellner said they want to invest in the business and reduce debt before returning more money to shareholders.

The Arlington, Va.-based aerospace and defense giant is scheduled to report first-quarter results April 26.
Southwest Airlines' passengers at Charleston International Airport are likely to encounter delays after the Dallas-based carrier reported "intermittent" technical issues earlier on April 18, and the FAA temporarily grounded all flights nationwide.

The FAA lifted the ground stop by late morning, but the flight schedule at CHS shows four Southwest departures and six arrivals with delays on Tuesday.

The airline issued the following statement after flights resumed shortly before noon:

"Southwest has resumed operations after temporarily pausing flight activity this morning to work through data connection issues resulting from a firewall failure," spokesman Dan Landson said. "Early this morning, a vendor-supplied firewall went down and connection to some operational data was unexpectedly lost. Southwest Teams worked quickly to minimize flight disruptions."

By late morning on the East Coast, more than 1,500 Southwest flights had been delayed, accounting for well over half of all delays nationwide, according to FlightAware.

The airline encouraged travelers to check the status of flights online or at its customer service desks.

In December, Southwest canceled nearly 17,000 flights over the Christmas holiday due to bad weather and its crew-scheduling system becoming overwhelmed. Those cancellations cost the airline more than $1 billion and are being investigated by the U.S. Transportation Department.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
COLUMBIA  Whether for hamburgers, biscuits or coffee that are on the menu, Columbia is getting new choices in 2023.

The new-to-Columbia burger brand is Checkers, which has received a construction permit for a site at 7373 Two Notch Road, according to Richland County.

The site formerly was home to a bank, and that building was under demolition on April 17, clearing the way for Checkers.

Checkers is a Tampa, Florida-based burger chain that is focused heavily on drive-thru service and is looking to grow its footprint, according to trade paper Nation's Restaurant News.

It also is looking to capitalize on the stronger interest in drive-thru dining by adding double drive-thrus as it grows.

Checkers operates on a franchise model, so the Two Notch Road location likely will be only one of several that come to the community, but no others have been announced yet.

Checkers is a familiar brand elsewhere in South Carolina, with four locations in the Charleston market, plus Florence and North Augusta, according to its website.

Another brand investing in the Midlands and South Carolina is Biscuitville, the North Carolina-based breakfast restaurant chain.

According to the company's webpage, it will roll out seven restaurants in the Upstate and Midlands of South Carolina, including locations in Columbia and Irmo.

It is holding a grand opening April 25 for its first South Carolina location, in Florence, according to a company spokesman.

The company is not ready to identify locations for its Columbia or Irmo restaurants.

The chain began offering made-from-scratch biscuits in 1966 and has become a staple of North Carolina mornings with 69 locations in the Tarheel State and Virginia.

Biscuitville's S.C. plans first were reported by The State.

A brand that already is drawing customers in Columbia with plans to add more location is Clutch Coffee Bar.

Clutch opened its first Columbia location at 4716 Devine St. in January, and the initial response has been strong, CEO Darren Spicer said.

"It's the busiest location we've ever opened," Spicer said.

The company has firm plans for two more locations in the Midlands, with a goal of opening from five to 10 sites here, Spicer said.

The second location is going to be at 306 Columbia Ave. in Lexington, with an opening projected in July, Spicer said.

A third Clutch location is coming to 9349 Two Notch Road in the Spring Valley area of Northeast Richland, Spicer said.

That location is on schedule for a fall opening, he said.

Jessica Holdman contributed to this report.

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Click here for more news from Columbia, South Carolina.
COLUMBIA  Some Columbia residents will be able to order groceries with no fee under a pilot program City Council approved April 18. It's the city's latest move to address food deserts.

The program will waive fees on groceries ordered through delivery apps Instacart and Doordash, as well as directly from grocery stores such as Walmart and Publix, for residents who qualify for federal assistance and live more than three miles from the nearest grocery store.

"Using technology and a system that's already in place  (that's) why we're trying this and trying to address the food deserts," Mayor Daniel Rickenmann said.

Columbia, along with cities across South Carolina have been grappling with how to get people in food deserts access to fresh foods while courting grocery stores, a difficult task in parts of town that lack density or space to support supermarkets.

Much of the northern part of Columbia, as well as some southern areas, fall within a food desert, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, based on a high number of people who are low-income living farther than one mile away in an urban area or 10 miles in a rural area.

The delivery program, which uses federal grant money, will work alongside a mobile food market the city has in the works that will travel through neighborhoods with groceries.

The $300,000 the council designated for the mobile market project is also meant to cover other creative solutions solicited from outside organizations.

The city's Parks and Recreation Foundation will handle verifying whether people signing up for the free delivery qualify for Medicare, Medicaid or Social Security Disability, the requirements to participate in the program.

The projected startup cost to the city will be $10,000. If the program is successful, the city can decide how much to allocate to it in the future.

Using data on the demand for the service, as well as where people are using it and what they're using it for, the city will evaluate the program and whether to continue it, Rickenmann said.

"We know this is not enough," Rickenmann said. "This is only to see what the response is."

Click here for more news from Columbia, S.C.
COLUMBIA  Richland County officials handed in a plan to remedy problems at the county detention center days before a state deadline that could have led to closing the jail.

South Carolina Department of Corrections officials are awaiting additional clarifying information from the county, which they expect in the coming days, DOC spokeswoman Chrysti Shain said. After that, the DOC will review the plan and determine whether it addresses the problems brought up in an October audit, which included faulty locks, too few toilets and inmates housed incorrectly.

Representatives for both DOC and the county declined to provide a copy of the plan April 17.

For the time being, Richland County avoided the looming warning that the DOC could shut down the jail if the county missed the April 18 deadline  a scenario the sheriff and local attorneys said would both make their jobs harder and further back up the court system. Unlike in many counties, the county administrator, not the sheriff, oversees the jail in Richland.

DOC Division Director Blake Taylor, who oversees the Compliance, Standards, and Inspections Division, issued an April 18 deadline to submit a plan in a January letter to County Council Chairman Overture Walker. Also in the letter, Taylor noted he had been in talks with county officials and called on the council to take action.

"In the absence of a satisfactory reply, we would then have to stipulate specific changes with deadlines required in order for this facility to remain open," Taylor wrote in his letter. "Of course, it is most definitely our hope and preference to avoid the necessity of taking such extreme action."

Addressing the problems

Altogether, DOC inspectors found more than a dozen violations of state standards during an October visit. Along with maintenance concerns, the 29-year-old jail was overcrowded and only around half its correctional officer positions were filled.

Since then, County Administrator Leonardo Brown has said Richland County is working to address the problems identified in the audit.

Recruitment has been an issue plaguing the jail for years. In 2021, the number of positions filled dropped from 65 percent to 35 percent. Countermeasures, including freezing positions and raising pay, are helping to draw more officers, leaving the facility about 57 percent staffed in March 2023.

To fill in any remaining gaps, the county increased the number of security officers it contracts from a private company, Brown said in February. Training also increased, and the jail joined forces with a private auditing firm to ensure best practices were implemented, Interim Director Crayman Harvey told a committee of council members in March.

Resolving the staffing problem would potentially allow Richland County to reopen five jail units that were taken offline because of too few staff to supervise them. Bringing those areas back online would in turn help ease inmate overcrowding.

The top spot at the jail has been vacant since the former director, Tyrell Cato, was fired in September. Brown has said he plans to not only replace Cato and fill the assistant director position, for which Harvey was hired, but add an extra person to oversee compliance.

First up on the list of maintenance concerns was replacing door locks, a $2.5 million project spurred on after not only the state, but also the county sheriff raised alarms over malfunctioning locks. Most of the facility's dorms will get a complete remodel, Harvey told the council committee, including adding and replacing toilets and repairing faulty plumbing systems.

Harvey also shut down the solitary housing unit, which was the source of several violations, such as pipes leaking what appeared to be raw sewage and a lack of supervision. Instead, Harvey has said he plans to open a medical unit, mental health unit, older population unit and behavioral "step-down" unit for detainees who can't be housed with the general population.

The jail's kitchen, another repeat hotbed of problems pointed out by the Department of Health and Environmental Control, also went from a lowest-possible C grade to an A in February and has maintained the high grade since.

Avoiding a 'nightmarish' closure

Closing the jail, a worst-case scenario for the county, would be "nightmarish in the complexities and the ramifications," said attorney Joe McCulloch of McCulloch & Schillaci.

Richland County spokeswoman Susan O'Cain declined to comment on whether the county had a back-up plan in the event the jail closed.

But Shain did say no other jails in the state have been shut down in recent memory, though it has happened in the past, making it a rare but real possibility.

Submitting a plan put the county in the clear for now. The DOC would have stepped in with specific suggestions and deadlines if it had passed without response. But the fact remains that DOC could potentially shut down the jail if conditions don't improve.

In that case, county officials would need to find somewhere for inmates to go in a state where many jails are overcrowded and understaffed.

In the year leading up to the inspection, the jail had an average of around 700 inmates a night, according to the audit. In the same time period, Charleston County, the third-largest county after Richland, had an average of 979 while Greenville County, the largest in the state, had 1,426.

Further exacerbating overcrowding, attorneys said, could be a bill working its way through the Legislature that would make it more difficult for certain inmates to be released on bond.

"(Supporters) are going to ignore what happens later, when jail populations explode and more lawsuits because of it and more people die because of it," said S.C. House Minority Leader Todd Rutherford, also a Columbia attorney.

Higher jail populations aren't a concern for supporters of the bill, said Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott.

"My job is to protect the public, the community, and if someone's out there terrorizing our community, breaking the law, they have to be held accountable for it," Lott said.

The DOC, which deals only in people who have been sentenced, would not take over jail operations or house the jail's inmates, who are primarily pre-trial. The most the state agency can do is inspect and make suggestions based on findings, Shain said, though officials are willing to work closely with Richland County to ensure the county meets its goals.

"If the decision was made that it had to be shut down, it would be up to Richland County to find a place for those inmates to be housed," Shain said.

Moving inmates to other counties, the most obvious solution, would cause havoc for sheriff's deputies booking inmates and attorneys meeting with clients. In both cases, they would be forced to drive at least into the next county over, if not further.

"It would make our life, our job, very difficult," Lott said.

Briefing clients over the phone often isn't enough for attorneys, who need to discuss confidential topics and go over documents with clients, said S.C. Rep. Seth Rose, who is also a Columbia attorney.

Security would need to be a serious consideration, for both inmates and detention officers, Rose said.

"Having quick access to my client is really what I need the most," Rose said. "But certainly from the human element you want (inmates) to be safe and not feel like it's the Hunger Games down there."

Forcing attorneys to drive long distances to visit clients would gum up the already slow-moving court system, Rutherford said.

"The impact on the system as a whole (would be) grinding the system almost to a halt because lawyers wouldn't have access to their clients before they have court the next day," Rutherford said.

Easier than trying to find somewhere else for people to go would be fixing the problems the state has found at the jail, McCulloch said.

"There really are no viable alternatives," he said.

Further improvements

The DOC will determine its timeline and how to move forward based on its assessment of Richland County's plan, Shain said.

In the meantime, attorneys, while stipulating they aren't experts in the ins and outs of jails, suggested continued improvements, such as more recreational time, programs to occupy inmates' time and outside contractors.

Other counties allow inmates access to tablets to pass the time, Rutherford said. To incentivize detention officers, he floated potentially offering shorter shifts.

"What I want to see is an approach that says that we're going to take into account everything that people are saying," Rutherford said. "Make it a place that people feel comfortable going to work, they feel safe, and that will allow us to attract more people."

Rose had similar ideas, such as incentivizing good behavior to keep inmates from acting out as often, as well as consulting with other places to see what works.

"I think if people feel good and have a way to relieve stress, just like with anyone, it would help with the tension in the facility," Rose said.

Lott said he wanted to see the county fix the problems at hand to increase safety and security  problems he has brought up following three stabbings in the jail since the beginning of 2023, one of which was fatal.

"I would hope those issues are solved so we don't have to investigate anything else down there," Lott said.

Click here for more news from Columbia, S.C.
COLUMBIA  One of the most popular classes at Ridge View High School is African American studies.

The Columbia school offered the class for the first time in 2017. Daniel Soderstrom, who came to Ridge View as a history teacher a year later, estimates he has taught the class about 30 times. To meet demand one year, the school offered 10 different sections of the semester-long course.

The interest doesnt surprise Soderstrom. Ridge Views student body is 78 percent Black. They want to learn about their history in more depth than the general history classes get into. Their White classmates want to learn more, too.

More information The Post and Courier Education Lab is a multi-year project, employing four reporters, focused on the need for public education reform in South Carolina. The Coastal Community Foundation and Spartanburg Foundation serve as fiscal sponsors for the Education Lab, which is supported by grants from the Jolley Foundation, Intertech, anonymous donors, and generous donations on behalf of donors to The Post and Courier Public Service and Investigative Fund who designate to the Education Lab.

The school is one of 60 across the country that has spent this academic year piloting a more advanced version of the class, a new Advanced Placement course offered by College Board that has become a target of conservative politicians who question the merit of such study. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has threatened to block all AP classes, not just this one.

The attacks on the African American studies class, an interdisciplinary field that was born decades ago out of students frustration over the exclusion of Black history from the general curriculum, come at a time when lessons about history and race are being threatened all over.

But the interest at Ridge View and other schools speaks to students curiosity about the past and how it shapes the present. Like students generations before them, they say they want more lessons about Black culture and history in their classes, not less.

The most important class

Ridge View was a natural fit for the AP pilot.

College Board said pilot schools needed to have an existing program and a teacher who had taught the subject. The school applied to be included at the end of 2021 and learned it was accepted in spring 2022.

It wasnt hard to recruit students for the advanced class, Soderstrom said.

They loved the idea of being some of the first students in the country to take the course. They were also excited to give College Board feedback on how to improve it for future students.

My kids, they understand its bigger than them, he said.

There are 21 students taking the yearlong course, mostly juniors and seniors. Its the first AP class for some. Others are taking it on top of a full load of other AP and honors classes. One senior took online classes last summer to free up time in her schedule after an adviser said it might be hard to fit it in alongside requirements for her BioHealth Sciences magnet program.

Mariana Burgess said the extra work was worth it.

This class is probably the most important class that Ive taken in high school, she said. Even though it may not translate to what I necessarily want to do in my future, it translates to who I am as a person and how the things that have happened in this country shaped who my family is, my culture and my history.

On the first day of class, Soderstrom showed photos of 10 famous Black people and asked students if it was a diverse group of people. He said they all replied no. Then Soderstrom started pointing out differences that went beyond skin color.

He told students this was what to expect from the course. They would be looking at the complex and sometimes conflicting range of experiences within the African diaspora.

Black history is not a history of a group of people who are repeatedly abused and thats the end of the story, Soderstrom said. Its a history of people who, despite the oppression, persisted and resisted and created great things.

While the class is heavy on history, its not a history class. It takes an interdisciplinary approach, with a curriculum that draws lessons from fields like literature, the arts, geography, politics and science. College Board, which did not respond to an interview request, has said it consulted more than 300 African American studies professors to develop the framework.

The course is split into four sections that start with early life in Africa and then explore the establishment of slavery in the present United States, Reconstruction and 20th-century civil rights movements.

The curriculum remains contentious. After pushback in Florida, some modern-day topics like the Black Lives Matter movement were removed from the required curriculum and made optional. Readings on Black feminism and reparations were also removed from the requirements. Critics have argued College Board watered down the curriculum below what would be expected in a college-level class, which is what AP classes are meant to approximate.

The College Board plans to pilot the course for one more year. Ridge View was the only school in South Carolina included in the first year, but high schools in Columbia (A.C. Flora) and Charleston (Wando) plan to offer the class beginning this fall. There could be others. Those decisions are made on the local level and are not tracked by the S.C. Department of Education.

Florida and four other states have said they plan to review the curriculum more before deciding whether they will allow schools to offer the class in 2024. South Carolina officials have not decided what theyll do, said Derek Phillips, a spokesman for the Education Department.

An evolving history

African American studies originated in the 1960s.

The field grew out of protests from Black students who saw their own history excluded or misrepresented by predominantly White educational institutions. They demanded to see themselves reflected in the curriculum.

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First popularized at colleges, the courses quickly trickled down to the high school level.

Eau Claire High School in West Columbia started offering a Black Studies class in the 1970s after the school was desegregated. Former teacher James Wright shared his experiences teaching the class on an oral history podcast called "Teachers in the Movement." He recalled that it was one of the most popular electives the school offered, just as it is today at Ridge View.

There are a lot of misconceptions about African American studies classes, said Tamara Butler, who leads the Avery Research Center for African American History at the College of Charleston. It's not a history class. It's also not a class that teaches one race is better than any other. What the classes do is teach how Black people are connected to the world at large.

It looks like one of those maps people have trying to solve a crime, those memes with the yarn, she said. Thats how Black studies functions. Its all about helping people understand where these ideas are manifesting and how theyre shaping the society we live in.

Butler grew up on Johns Island and went to an elementary school just a block from the Progressive Club, an African American community meeting site and the center of civil rights advocacy. She graduated from high school in 2002 and doesnt remember any of that nearby history being talked about in her classes.

General U.S. history classes include more of the Black experience now but that perspective shift has been a slow process, said Marc Turner, the president of the South Carolina Council for Social Studies. He has taught high school history in the Columbia area since the early 1990s and said theres still more work to be done to make sure U.S. history is taught accurately and comprehensively.

Part of the struggle todays teachers face is confronting the distorted versions of history they were taught as students, he said.

For years, textbooks used in South Carolina repeated Lost Cause arguments, the myth that the South's desire to maintain slavery was not the driving force behind secession and the Civil War. During legislative hearings last year, former Education Superintendent Molly Spearman described concerns she had heard about a textbook with drawings that gave the impression Black people were happy being enslaved, another Lost Cause myth. That book was used until 2019 when the state revised its elementary social studies standards.

Another impediment to accurate teaching: The difficulty of fitting all of the history standards into an academic year. Topics like the civil rights movement are sometimes covered superficially simply because of a time crunch in the spring when the material is taught, Turner said.

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But educators today are making genuine efforts to teach the complexity of U.S. history accurately, he said. That means including more about the experiences of many different types of people, not just Black Americans but women, Native Americans and other marginalized groups.

These efforts, which people like Turner and Butler view as overdue, have been alienating to some. People see the changes and feel like history is being rewritten, without fully understanding that the study of history has always involved interpretation and evolves with new information.

I often joke that everybody thinks that theyre an expert on the schools because they went to one, Turner said. If were confronting anything right now, it goes back to people who are in my age bracket who are now seeing that their kids are learning a different kind of history.

In South Carolina, especially the Lowcountry, there's no escaping the past, Butler said.

"The past is deeply informing your life, whether or not a school includes it in their curriculum," Butler said. "The hope is they're going to give you the tools to understand it."

Overlooked achievements

A large part of the public debate over history lessons about race has been about discomfort.

South Carolina is one of more than a dozen states that have adopted prohibitions on certain types of lessons, such as teaching that any race is better than another. State law, inserted into the budget in 2021, bars teachings that make a student feel discomfort, guilt, anguish or any other form of psychological distress on account of his race or sex. Educators, including Spearman, warned such a prohibition could stifle what's taught in the classroom, making teachers fearful of what they can say.

Legislation that seeks to take that line out of state law advanced to the Senate floor on April 12. The bill is receiving bipartisan support after the Senate Education Committee removed problematic sections added during the House floor debate in February, primarily one that would allow any parent to sue any school district suspected of violating the banned concepts. The Senate could take up the amended bill later this month. If it doesn't become law, the existing ban on teachings that cause discomfort will stay in place.

The conversations have primarily been about White students' alleged discomfort. Butler said adults seem more uncomfortable than the students she's encountered. White students fill the African American studies classes at the College of Charleston. It's not required  they're just curious.

If teachers approach difficult topics with care, students shouldnt walk away feeling personal responsibility for the past, said Saudah Collins, the 2021 S.C. history teacher of the year. Collins teaches African studies at a Richland School District 2 elementary school in Columbia. The lessons often engender greater empathy for the experiences of others.

It has not been my experience that these conversations have been divisive, Collins said.

With the young children she teaches, Collins tries to explain difficult history in age-appropriate ways. When they study the experiences of Ruby Bridges, who desegregated her New Orleans school and had to be escorted there by federal marshals because of protesters, Collins asks students to think about it in ways that are familiar to them. Have they ever sat alone at the lunch table, or had no one want to play with them at recess?

When we connect to things that students know just on a human level, it helps them to understand that there was some pain being experienced, that it was unfair," Collins said.

Educators said its equally important to think about how students of color feel when their history is excluded or misrepresented. Kendall Wright, a junior in Soderstroms AP class, said part of why she loves the class so much is because it highlights Black successes. In her other history classes, Black experiences are often included only when its an example of adversity.

Its a lot of negativity, Wright said. Its a blessing to not only focus on the struggles the Black community has endured but also some of their achievements that are overlooked.

Her classmate, Edyn McCollum, said some of her favorite lessons have been about life in Africa before the transatlantic slave trade. Its been empowering to learn about the wealth of Mansa Musa and the artistic and scientific achievements Africans accomplished.

More coverage To read more in-depth stories from The Post and Courier's Education Lab, go to postandcourier.com/education-lab.

It is an amazing feeling to hear about something other than slavery and struggle, that we werent always oppressed, McCollum said.

The juniors find the national debate over the course upsetting. Critics condemned the course even before it was fully developed and have discounted the value it brings, Wright said.

They havent given it a chance, she said. This really does a lot of good.

Covering up the past

Part of students final exam is a research paper on a topic of their choice.

College Board included some of the more contested parts of the original framework as optional issues students can explore in their research. Teachers are not allowed to pick a topic for students.

At the start of seventh period, Ridge View students file into Soderstrom's classroom. They walk past a sign on the door that reads I have the courage to teach hard history and plop into desks. Historical posters hang from the walls. The founding fathers signing the Declaration of Independence. A portrait of Martin Luther King Jr. A laminated two-page newspaper spread from 2015 covering the removal of the Confederate battle flag from S.C. Statehouse grounds.

Soderstrom, who students sometimes call Sodie or Soda, quiets the class after the bell. He tells them the class period will be spent talking over their research topics with each other. The students split off into pairs and small groups. Soderstrom walks around and checks in with each group. Mostly, he just listens to their discussions.

In the front of the room, Kyrah Eagleton sits on her desk with her feet on the seat, typing away on a laptop. The junior is telling classmate Lylou Libby-Lengard that she has decided to write about the ways women of color are sexualized at an early age.

Eagleton is fascinated by Bratz dolls and the way they portray feminism and sexuality in a way that is a central part of the dolls stories, even as they are marketed to small girls. Her paper is going to trace how Black girls have always been perceived as older and more sexual than they are. She sees a connection to Harriet Jacobs, who wrote an autobiography published in 1860 about her enslavement. In Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl, Jacobs recalls how her enslaver sexually assaulted her under the guise that she, a teenager at the time, was seducing him.

No one saw her as a child or even a person, Eagleton said.

Eagleton describes how Black women face this pressure doubly, as women and as people of color. She doesnt use the word but is describing the idea of intersectionality, the idea of overlapping types of discrimination and one of the concepts Florida officials have objected to in the AP curriculum most vehemently, describing it as woke indoctrination. College Board made lessons about intersectionality optional.

The concept isnt one she has studied academically, Eagleton said. But she knows it well.

Its something Ive experienced every day, she said.

Eagleton signed up for the AP course because she wanted a class that studied Black lives like hers in depth. She felt like something was missing from her other classes.

Her friend, Libby-Lengard, signed up feeling similarly. Libby-Lengard is White and felt like there was a gap in her knowledge of Black life. She thinks some of the readings theyve done, like journalist Ida B. Wells reports on lynchings in the South, should be required reading for everyone.

This is the truth of what happened, she said. Ignoring it, its a way of covering up the past.

Libby-Lengards research topic?

The omission of Black history from classrooms.
GREENVILLE  A sure sign Craig Kuhns has eaten at Rincon Latino a few times is that the chef knows to order as soon as you sit down. Not only that, Kuhns knows what to order to give someone a taste of what he considers one of the best, most-consistent dining experiences in Greenville.

Its eye-opening, Kuhns said of restaurants like Rincon Latino that are somewhat off the beaten path but deliver consistently. Theres a lot more to Greenville than barbecue and Chick-fil-A.

Chefs are known for the food they cook, but follow them for a while and youll find they also know the best spots to dine. These aren't places that require a reservation, but instead ones you might not be aware of, or if you are, that you might not think of when planning a meal out.

Kuhns, who spent a decade cooking in Charleston at restaurants like Palmetto Cafe and Charleston Grill before making his way to the Upstate and leading kitchens at Nose Dive and The Lazy Goat, has the talent and skill to cook most anything. But the chef loves eating out.

Kuhns, now culinary director at The Cooks Station, has been coming to this Honduran restaurant just off Easley Bridge Road near U.S. 25 for the past 10 years.

In 2013, after passing it weekly on the way to drop off his daughter at school, he finally stopped in.

That first visit was around 9 a.m., and Kuhns had the day off. He ordered one of the breakfast plates with eggs, plantains and beans, and a beer.

He returned the next week for lunch. And then came for dinner. Every visit was delicious, interesting and efficient.

Soon, the small restaurant became a go-to spot for Kuhns and his daughter, Kat (now 13), to stop for an afterschool snack of a papusa and an horchata.

Its definitely something we share, Kuhns said of his and Kats love of new foods.

On a recent weekday at lunch, Kuhns is sitting patiently. He ordered as soon as he sat down, as the service can take a long time, though the wait is worth it, he said.

It's what comes along with a place that makes homemade tortillas and papusas with loroco (an edible wild flower native to Central America).

As far back as he can remember, Kuhns has always preferred the flavors of other cultures' cuisines. Not that he doesnt love the flavors of a good fried fish and grits or limas and ham, but he can make those at home. So, when he dines out, Kuhns is usually searching for something different.

Case in point, for his 16th birthday, his parents gifted him the 21-course omakase tasting at Nippon Center Yagato, the once-premier Japanese restaurant in Greenville.

Growing up, Kuhns took inspiration from his family.

From his grandfather, who lived in Waycross, Ga., but had traveled the world with the Air Force, Kuhns took a passion for seasonal southern food.

From his grandmothers, one of whom was French-Canadian and the other Mexican, he learned to love French country cooking and a penchant for spices and chilis.

From his parents, who loved food themselves, he learned an appreciation for foods from different cultures and an interest in different ingredients.

The experiences grew a passion for how unique different foods can be.

Im the guy that wants to go eat Mexican food, Asian food, Kuhns said. When I go out to eat, thats what I want to eat.

When the food arrives, Kuhns smiles at the server and then at the food.

Gracias, he said, clearing space on the table for all the dishes.

So, this is my standard when Im introducing people here, he said.

On the table are papusas  mushroom, chorizo and loroco  served with a quick vinegar coleslaw and two kinds of hot sauce.

The green is the spicier one, he said.

The elote is another staple. The dish looks like the masa part of a tamale, and is served with a queso fresco and crema. Kuhns likens it to "a steamed cornbread, with a rich corn flavor and light texture.

The third go-to for Kuhns is the tajadas con carne asada. The chef likens it to Honduran nachos. Instead of tortilla chips, it comes with fried plantains, a wet sauce, green cabbage, crema and seasoned meat.

The combination creates a flavorful, multi-textured, multi-layered bite.

Ive eaten here, God, probably 100 times, Kuhns said. Its surprisingly consistent.

Kuhns' favorite dish is only available on weekends, so he will have to wait. It's sopa de mondongo, a tripe soup, which Kuhns says is rich in flavor thanks to a tomato and coconut broth.

The simple pleasure of eating out took on new meaning last year, when Kuhns was diagnosed with Guillain-Barre Syndrome, a rare autoimmune disease. One day he was fine, the next he was paralyzed from the neck down.

After months of therapy, he's much better, but he is more cautious about what he eats. He is also perhaps more grateful for things like walking, talking and eating because he is all too aware of all the joints, muscles, bones and brain power needed to make them happen.

Sitting in Rincon Latino now, soaking in the familiar sounds and smells, there is a peace about Kuhns.

The three large plates of food are dwindling. Turns out, three papusas is a lot here. Kuhns takes one last sip of his horchata and is on his way.

Hell likely be back this weekend or maybe next. The the sopa de mondongo awaits.

Rincon Latino is located at 1902 Easley Bridge Road, Greenville, and is open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday.
Details added (first published: 10:58)

BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. Head of the British Azerbaijani Community operating in London, Farida Panakhova, has addressed a letter to UK Foreign Minister James Cleverly in connection with Azerbaijani soldiers captured in Armenia, Azerbaijan's State Committee for Work with Diaspora told Trend.

Information on the capture of the Azerbaijani soldiers Agshin Babirov, born in 2004, and Huseyn Akhundov, born in 2003, is provided in the letter. Furthermore, attention is attached to the torture and mistreatment of the soldiers of the Azerbaijani Army. The incident is assessed as a violation of international humanitarian laws by Armenia.

Moreover, it is highlighted in the letter that the relevant international organizations should conduct the investigation and proper evaluation of the above-mentioned violence, including the violence committed by Armenia against Azerbaijani prisoners of war and civilian prisoners, and the 3,890 missing Azerbaijanis over the past 30 years.

It was noted that Armenia does not fulfill its obligations under crucial international acts, including the Geneva Convention, the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment. Strongly condemning torture against Azerbaijani servicemen, the head of the Community called on the British minister to intervene in this matter.

As noted in the letter, it is important to send a clear message to the world that the UK will not tolerate violations of international law. The UK should express solidarity with the Azerbaijani government, which is making efforts to achieve justice for our two soldiers.

"We believe that by defending human rights, we can make the world a safer and fairer place for all", said the appeal.
Terry Stone, a local to Charleston until 2003, has recently released an autobiographical memoir about her father. The Dreamer and Renaissance Man: Dialogue with My Father tells the story of the rich and interesting life of Stones father. Read moreCharleston author recalls father's journey
Kingstree, SC (29556)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun this morning followed by increasing clouds with showers developing this afternoon. High 73F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%..

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Rain showers this evening with clearing overnight. Low 53F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%.
MONCKS CORNER  The remnants of an earthen fort erected by British soldiers sit protected in a thicket of trees where a housing development once was proposed.

The weakening brick walls of what was once an Anglican church hark back to its torching by British troops, one of three fires the former house of worship suffered.

A more modern bridge traverses a creek where a narrow wooden crossing once served as a battle setting that helped to push the Redcoats from the surrounding Lowcountry toward what was then Charles Town.

Those are among seven Revolutionary War battlefield and skirmish sites in Berkeley County revisited each spring and fall through tours led by David Reuwer of the South Carolina Battleground Preservation Trust.

"There are a lot of battles that are more noteworthy, but these are just as important to help win the war," Reuwer said.

Through theatrics, props and historical accounts, Reuwer, a preservation attorney in Camden, brings to life the sites where American Patriots and British and Loyalist forces, some who often changed sides, tangled after the fall of Charles Town on May 12, 1780. Continental troop reenactors enhance the tour finale with cannon fire, drills and warfare tactics of the era.

Reuwer starts with the burning of Biggin Church and a skirmish at Wadboo Bridge on S.C. Highway 402, then onto another entanglement at Quinby Creek on Cainhoy Road and the ensuing battle on what was then Shubrick's Plantation, now Quinby Plantation and owned by Charleston developer Michael Bennett.

He also discusses the Battle of the Avenue of Cedars near Wadboo Creek, the last combat engagement by Gen. Francis Marion, whose guerrilla-warlike tactics startled the orderly British, earned him the nickname "The Swamp Fox" and helped win the war.

The tour ends at Fort Fair Lawn, an earthen fortress built by British troops at the headwaters of the Cooper River to guard against Patriot moves toward Charles Town.

It is one of only two forts built in South Carolina during the Revolutionary War that has kept much of its original layout, earthen embankments and remains of a moat. The other is at Ninety Six in Greenwood County west of Columbia.

None of the Berkeley battles would live on to command the attention of the better-known Palmetto State engagements at Camden, Cowpens, Eutaw Springs or Kings Mountain, but together the smaller clashes eventually helped to push British soldiers out of Berkeley County and Charles Town, a departure that wouldn't happen for more than a year after their surrender at Yorktown.

Setting the stage

With a stalemate unfolding in the Northern colonies, the British turned their attention to the South where they believed strong Loyalists sentiment and less resistance would help them cut the colonies in half and end the rebellion.

With early success through the capture of Savannah and the later fall of Charles Town, British troops, with the help of Loyalists, and Patriots continued to wage war across South Carolina so much so that, along with New Jersey and New York, it is one of three states to see the most action during the war.

Thirty-two of the more than 200 engagements across the Palmetto State occurred in Berkeley County, according to the Lord Berkeley Conservation Trust. Many of them occurred after British Gen. Charles Cornwallis had surrendered in Virginia in October 1781.

"For more than a year after Yorktown, people were still dying in the war, many of them in Berkeley County," Reuwer said.

As part of the siege of Charles Town, British forces secured the area around Moncks Corner at the headwaters of the Cooper River in April 1780. By cutting off the major water transportation route, Redcoats tried to rob the Patriots of providing supplies to defenders in the port city and cut off their escape route when the Southern stronghold fell.

Charles Town capitulated the next month, and British troops occupied Colleton Castle, a mansion built on the 12,000-acre Fair Lawn Barony about a mile west of the Cooper River near Moncks Corner.

They transformed the Loyalist-owned plantation house into a fortified station and supply depot and built a fort, called a redoubt, near the road leading from the river to the house.

Called Fort Fair Lawn, the fortress, with 9-foot-tall earthen walls, cannon platform and brick kiln, protected British troop maneuvers, deployment and communication as "one of the most significant British outposts between Charles Town and Camden," according to Reuwer.

"They didn't live in here," Reuwer said as he pointed out remnants of the fort. "They would camp outside and come in here to work and fight."

Though the fort was formidable, the British were slowly being driven from the backcountry of South Carolina toward Charles Town. Much of their retreat took them through Berkeley County.

Wadboo Creek and Biggin Church  July 16-17, 1781

Near the fort, on the opposite side of Biggin Creek at the top of the Cooper River, sat Biggin Church, a thick-brick house of worship for Anglicans. A bridge and causeway, now the road leading down to the Tailrace Canal, crossed the creek and served as a critical land route from the Colleton Mansion and Fort Fair Lawn to the eastern side of the waterway and a bridge 2 miles to the south over Wadboo Creek.

A cavalry detachment of Patriots tried the capture Biggin Bridge, but British forces drove them off on July 16, 1781. That same day, the British surprisingly attacked the Americans at their encampment near Wadboo Creek around dinnertime. The Patriots rallied and encircled the British, but the arrival of British artillery stopped the American assault. Both sides left the field to join other forces elsewhere.

For the British, the Wadboo raid was a delaying tactic while they placed goods and ammunition inside the church, where they had assembled their forces.

In the predawn hours of July 17, British Lt. Col. John Coates, who commanded 600 infantry soldiers, torched Biggin Church to keep supplies from falling into Patriot hands.

"It was a huge explosion," Reuwer said. "It would have been unbelievably spectacular."

Quinby Bridge and Shubrick's Plantation  July 17, 1781

While the church burned, the British cavalry raced southward to cross the Cooper River at Strawberry Ferry. Coates marched his infantry 17 miles south to the Quinby Creek bridge, on what is now Cainhoy Road just off of S.C. Highway 41.

Patriot forces caught up about a mile north of the bridge and captured the rear baggage wagons, including a large sum of British money estimated at several hundred thousands of dollars today.

At Quinby Bridge, a wagon-wide wooden crossing over the creek, a tributary of the Cooper River's east branch, Coates set up a howitzer on the causeway west of the bridge and ordered some of his men to start tearing up the planks so the Patriots couldn't cross.

Patriot cavalry troops surged forward, causing the bridge to crumble even further as they clashed with British troops. "The howitzer fired little or not at all because of the rapid Patriot assault and the British ... in the way," Reuwer said.

The Patriots reassembled the bridge, but that gave British forces time to regroup in the protection of the buildings at nearby Shubrick's Plantation.

Patriot forces under Marion and Lt. Col. Henry Lee waited for Gen. Thomas Sumter to arrive. When he did, he came without artillery support. Sumter left it at the burning church, thinking it would slow him down.

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He then took command and ordered an attack  against the advice of Marion and Col. Thomas Taylor, who recognized the British's more favorable position.

Sumter split Patriot forces into three groups. He took the center where there was some protection from buildings that housed enslaved workers. Marion's brigade was ordered to advance on one side across an open field with only a fence for protection. Taylor advanced from the right flank. The cavalry under Lee was placed in reserve.

The battle went well at first until Sumter's men ran out of ammunition and were about to be outgunned by British forces. Marion ordered his men to halt the advance and come to the aid of Sumter's troops. The British stayed in their fortified position inside the farmhouse and outbuildings, allowing Sumter's men to retreat in safety.

The battle lasted for three hours or so until dark, and Sumter had intended to attack the next day after his cannon had arrived.

The British, with the arrival of fresh troops overnight, expected another assault, but in light of the defeat, many Patriot troops went home, and the Redcoats left for Charles Town.

The battle left sour feelings toward Sumter, not only over how he commanded the field but also because he divided the confiscated money with his own troops and not others. Some Patriots vowed to never fight under Sumter's command again.

Colleton Castle and Fort Fair Lawn  Nov. 17, 1781

A few months later, in November 1781, a month after Cornwallis had surrendered to George Washington at Yorktown, the Patriots tried to take Fort Fair Lawn, but found it "too formidable."

As British troops watched from the fort, American forces descended on the nearby sparsely defended mansion, which had been turned into a field hospital. As the Patriots withdrew with supplies and prisoners, the mansion burned. The British blamed the Patriots and vice versa.

Continental troops never took Fort Fair Lawn, but the constant fighting around the site eventually forced the British to abandon it and marked the end of their control of the upper Cooper River corridor.

"We believe they left in the winter of 1781-82, but we don't know for sure," Reuwer said.

Avenue of the Cedars  Aug. 29, 1782

One more major action occurred in Berkeley County near Wadboo Creek on Aug. 29, 1782.

British troops, who remained in Charles Town until December 1782, 14 months after Yorktown, were sent to forage for fresh meat for the British hospital in the still-captured city.

Royalist soldiers, or Americans loyal to the king, under Maj. Thomas Fraser, believed Marion was supervising defenses in Georgetown. They were wrong.

Marion had returned to the Patriot-confiscated Wadboo Plantation house, owned by Loyalists, on the south side of Wadboo Creek, just off what is now S.C. Highway 402. Learning of the foraging party, Marion sent a small cavalry force to find it and then put part of his infantry along a cedar-lined avenue in an ambush position. The rest were placed in and around cabins for enslaved workers.

Fraser saw the Patriot mounted force, led by Capt. Gavin Witherspoon, in the forest and charged. Witherspoon and his men turned and drew Fraser's troops down the plantation avenue, where they quickly found themselves in trouble.

The Loyalist troops lingered nearby in an open field for about an hour, hoping to draw Marion's men out into the open. It didn't happen. During the skirmish, Marion's men lost a wagon load of ammunition after a startled horse bolted forward. Fraser withdrew while Marion waited for him to return. Running low on ammo, Marion left for St. Stephen to await new supplies.

"It was his last combat engagement of the war," Reuwer said of The Swamp Fox.

By late September, Marion came back to Wadboo Plantation. He stayed there until after the British abandoned Charles Town on Dec. 14, 1782. The next day, he thanked his troops and bid them farewell.

After the war, Marion returned to his plantation, Pond Bluff near Eutaw Springs, only to find it in ruins. He died in 1795. The site of his plantation is now under Lake Marion. He is buried at Belle Isle Plantation, which belonged to his brother, Gabriel, in Pineville in Berkeley County.

Mepkin

While Patriots fought desperately to repel the British, diplomats worked to involve England's European enemies in the Revolutionary War on the side of the rebels.

One of those emissaries was Henry Laurens, the owner of a large plantation called Mepkin on a bluff overlooking the Cooper River. He also was a slave trader and served as the fourth of 14 men in the position of president of the Continental Congress before Washington became the first president of the United States in 1789.

After Laurens' term of just over a year as president ended on Dec. 9, 1778, Congress named him as minister to the Netherlands, where, in 1780, he negotiated Dutch financial support for the war.

On a return voyage to Amsterdam that fall, the British intercepted his ship near Newfoundland and discovered Laurens' link to the Netherlands. Britain declared war on the Dutch Republic, and Laurens, charged with treason, became the only American imprisoned in the Tower of London. He remained there until after the war.

Laurens returned to the U.S., helped to ratify the Constitution in South Carolina in 1788 and retired from politics shortly afterward.

He also had a fear of being buried alive that was inspired by the false declaration of death of his daughter Martha when she was a child. Upon his death on Dec. 8, 1792, he was cremated. It is believed to have marked the first cremation of a major political figure in the United States. His ashes were buried next to his son, John, at Mepkin Plantation. His son, a former aide to Washington, was killed in the Battle of Tar Bluff on the Combahee River in the Lowcountry in 1782.

Since the late 1940s, much of the former plantation, which is said to have been plundered by British troops, has served as a Trappist monk monastery called Mepkin Abbey. Its expansive grounds, with moss-dripping live oaks, flowering shrubs and views of former rice fields flanking the Cooper River, is open to visitors.

Tour participants found it fascinating.

Dan Bras of Moncks Corner, who took the excursion with his wife, Sylvia, both formerly of western Pennsylvania, said Reuwer's enthusiasm added to the roughly six-hour event.

"The diversity of opportunities to see history here is awesome," Bras said.

Rick Campeau of Summerville called it "eye-opening."

"It's hard to imagine how it was with all the trees up since it would have been all open fields," he said of Fort Fair Lawn during the war. "It was a terrific experience."

And Betty Parker Ellis, who traveled from Greenville for the event, couldn't say enough good things about the battle sites on the eve of the 250th anniversary of the Revolutionary War.

"I'm a history buff, and my home state has started to come to life," Ellis said. "It's added a whole new layer of excitement."
Mount Pleasant, SC (29464)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun with a slight chance of thunderstorms this afternoon. High 73F. Winds ENE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

A few clouds. Low 59F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph.
CONWAY  Parking meters could be coming to downtown Conway later this year as city officials try to accommodate additional visitors hitting the popular restaurants and stores in Horry County's seat.

The city said it is receiving bids from vendors to supply 500 parking meters that will be installed on all on-street parking in areas of the downtown commercial district currently marked as two-hour parking.

The meters that would charge $1 per hour will give Conway money to pay for future parking options that could be more lots or a garage.

Conway officials said the estimated $250,000 cost of the proposed parking meters will come from the hotel and restaurant taxes, often paid by visitors.

Were beginning to have a real parking issue in the city of Conway which is a good thing, Mayor Barbara Blain-Bellamy said at the April 17 City Council meeting. It says that we have a vibrant downtown that people enjoy shopping and dining and strolling and sightseeing in downtown Conway.

But the more people we have, the more visitors we have, the more cars there are and what we predict is, in a very few years, a parking garage is going to be absolutely necessary with a huge cost.

In recent years, Conway has become a popular destination for visitors and residents in Horry County like its neighbor 15 miles to the east  Myrtle Beach.

The city of 25,000 residents additionally has seen some of the most rapid population growth in South Carolina, a 45 percent increase since 2010 that was the state's 13th fastest, according to U.S. Census data.

With Myrtle Beach seeing around 20 million visitors annually, Conway business leaders have said their goal is to attract 1 percent of that number as they travel on U.S. 501, a major thoroughfare that cuts through the city on the way to the beach.

The adjacent tourist hub of Myrtle Beach uses paid parking. The practice is seasonal.

Russell Fowler, one of the owners of The Haberdashery clothing store that has been around for nearly 35 years, said they noticed many of the problems with parking through the years are attributed to a lack of policing the two-hour rule, not availability of parking spaces.

"We have a lot of people who own businesses and people who work in businesses that do park in the parking places, not just for two hours but all day long, and if those people were removed from the parking places, our customers would have no problem parking, Fowler said.

Blain-Bellamy said the city is unable to enforce the current two-hour time limit, through the practice of chalking tires to monitor parking.

Scott Slatton, director of advocacy and communications for the S.C. Municipal Association, said that their organization isnt aware of a state law that prohibits marking tires, but with a growing trend of app-based parking payments, the practice is waning.

There are federal court rulings that have both affirmed the practice and then also prohibited the practice as an invasion of privacy, Slatton said.
MYRTLE BEACH  The Horry County School District has announced there will not be any changes following the arrests of three officials on charges of child misconduct involving special needs students since November.

In the latest case, Georgia Branch, 68, was arrested and released on bond April 13 for a misdemeanor child cruelty charge on accusations of assaulting a 9-year-old autistic student at Myrtle Beach Elementary School, according to Myrtle Beach Police.

The school district confirmed April 17 that Branch, who worked as a paraprofessional assisting special education teachers, was placed on administrative leave March 27 because of the alleged incident.

This latest arrest comes after two Ocean Bay Elementary School employees  special education teacher Grace McColgan and principal Rebecca Schroyer  were arrested Nov. 2 in cases also involving special needs students.

The district is looking at classroom training following the arrests but made no announcement about changes.

"We will continue to review our staff development training and look to see if the number of trainings will increase or add additional training resources for staff," Horry County District spokeswoman Lisa Bourcier said.

Bourcier said staff who work in special education currently receive training on students academic, functional and behavioral needs during staff development days and throughout the year. Some of the training relates to behavior intervention plans and de-escalating and managing crisis behaviors, she said.

These trainings are both best practice and evidence-based and have been proven to be effective with our students with disabilities, Bourcier said.

The incident involving Branch allegedly took place March 26 when the student allegedly told a teacher that Branch hit him in the face and right shoulder in the bathroom, according to an arrest warrant.

Video taken from outside the bathroom allegedly showed the student entering the bathroom, with Branch entering several minutes later. Then, the student was seen leaving, crying and holding his right shoulder. Officials also noted redness on his shoulder several hours later, the warrant states.

In November, McColgan was arrested for allegedly physically assaulting three students last September. She was charged with six counts of child neglect by a legal custodian and released on bond, according to booking records.

Schroyer was also arrested that same day for allegedly failing to report an incident involving McColgan in February 2022. She was charged with two counts of failing to report child abuse or neglect, and released on bond, according to booking records.

Their charges are pending. McColgan and Schroyer remain on administrative leave, Bourcier confirmed.

Two months after McColgan and Schroyer were arrested, the parent of a special needs student who was allegedly assaulted by McColgan sued the school district and school.

The parent claimed they allegedly failed to protect students and properly supervise their employees, which allowed the abuse to occur, according to the ongoing lawsuit.

The district and school have denied the allegations of wrongdoing in its response to the lawsuit.
MOUNT PLEASANT  South Carolina's transportation department is once again asking community members to give their thoughts on its plan to redesign Interstate 526 and the busy Long Point Road interchange now that an environmental assessment is complete.

The plan is aimed at improving traffic around the state's busiest port, the Wando Welch Terminal, which sits at the end of Long Point Road.

Up to 12,000 trucks drive through the interchange each day, according to the assessment. The number is projected to increase 128 percent by 2050.

The assessment, released to the public last month, includes a review of all proposed alternatives and describes how the project might affect the environment.

It also makes clear which plan the S.C. Department of Transportation favors: Alternative 2.

If You Go A public hearing for the I-526 and Long Point Road interchange will be held: Tuesday, May 2, 4-7 p.m., at the Mount Pleasant Town Hall, 100 Ann Edwards Lane, Mount Pleasant. A formal presentation and verbal comment session begins at 6 p.m. To make an in-person or virtual verbal comment, sign up by 5:55 p.m. May 2. at the hearing or on the website. To get a public information meeting packet by mail, call 842-258-1135 or email info@526LowcountryCorridor.com.

This plan calls for the construction of elevated ramps to take port trucks to and from the interstate, keeping them from clogging local roadways. It would also revamp the existing interchange.

Nearly 540 people submitted comments about those plans in the fall. About 60 percent opposed the proposed elevated port ramps in any plan, while just half said they supported Alternative 2.

DOT employees spent the past couple months revising the Alternative 2 plan after some residents voiced concerns about the initial version. A number of design changes were made following the last public comment period, which ended Sept. 2:

Shifting the new truck ramps to the east so fewer residential properties are affected.

Keeping a left turn from Long Point Road onto Belle Hall Parkway.

Constructing a 10-foot path for cyclists and pedestrians along the east side of Long Point Road from Wando Park Boulevard to Belle Point Drive.

Adding a cul-de-sac at the end of Shipping Lane near the terminal's back gate.

Alternative 2, which the Federal Highway Administration also supports, won't require any residential homes to be relocated. But more than 50 businesses  mostly on Long Point Road and Wando Park Boulevard  and Christ Church Presbyterian might be torn down to accommodate the construction, according to the assessment.

A noise study recommends building four barriers, mostly around neighborhoods adjacent to I-526.

About 14 acres of wetlands will be affected through a combination of clearing, construction access, fill material and equipment staging. DOT must get authorization from the S.C. Ports Authority and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

And nearly 28 acres of floodplains could be affected, though DOT doesn't believe the project will change how the area floods.

Construction for the interchange project, which will be completed independently of the planned I-526 widening, is tentatively scheduled to begin next year. Its current cost is estimated between $280 million and $360 million, and will be financed using federal funds.

The public comment period runs through May 17. Residents can submit their thoughts online, via email (info@526LowcountryCorridor.com) or mailing a letter to the DOT.

They are also invited to attend an open house next month either in person or virtually, where DOT employees will present the environmental assessment. The public hearing is scheduled from 4-7 p.m. May 2 at Mount Pleasant's town hall.

Editor's Note: A previous version of this article had the incorrect date for the public hearing. It will be held May 2.
Joe Biden is running for reelection. How is anyone going to tell? The basement presidency is about to embark on another basement campaign. Biden's political genius turns out to be not provoking strong negative emotions because no one particularly thinks of him as being in charge or as having anything interesting to say. Read moreLowry: Biden basement campaign could earn him 4 more years
Details added (first published: 13:12)

BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. Azerbaijan demands justice in connection with the war crimes committed by Armenia, Aykhan Hajizada, Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan, said on Twitter, Trend reports.

"On this day, we remember all innocent victims of Armenia's war crimes and crimes against humanity with grief and sorrow, and demand justice for them," he said.

This year marks the 30th Anniversary of the massacre in the Azerbaijani village of Bashlibel, committed in April 1993 during the occupation of Azerbaijan's Kalbajar region by Armenia during the first Karabakh war.

During that period, some 62 residents of the village, who failed to leave their homes in time, took refuge from the enemy in mountain caves near the village. They stayed there for 18 days. On April 18, the Armenians discovered the location of the villagers - 18 were killed, 14 were taken hostage. At the same time, 30 people who managed to escape, were hiding from the enemy for 113 days in other caves. They left their shelters and were able to get out of the Armenian encirclement on July 17, moving along mountain trails at night time.
Charleston, SC (29403)

Today

Partly cloudy skies this evening. Increasing clouds with periods of showers late. Low 57F. Winds NE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies this evening. Increasing clouds with periods of showers late. Low 57F. Winds NE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 40%.
FLORENCE  The real work in South Carolina's 7th Congressional District happens in the district offices, U.S. Rep. Russell Fry said.

Fry was in Florence on April 14 for the opening of the Pee Dee District Office, 1831 W. Evans St., Suite 300.

What happens in Washington, D.C., makes the news, the Republican congressman said. But district offices answer constituents' questions and help them navigate the intricacies of the federal government.

"Constituent service is what this job is all about. That's what makes this job work. Being responsive to you on your needs and how we can better the community."

The Pee Dee District Office staff can help constituents with problems they are having with the federal government, Fry said.

Fry was sworn in to the 118th Congress on Jan. 7. He is the second representative to serve the 7th District.

The district includes Chesterfield, Darlington, Dillon, Georgetown, Horry, Marion and Marlboro counties as well as parts of Florence County.

The Pee Dee District Office is open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday to Friday. It can be reached at 843-353-5377.

The Grand Strand District Office opened Feb. 17 in Surfside Beach.

Surfside Beach was chosen for the Grand Strand office because it is halfway between North Myrtle Beach and Georgetown, Fry said.

The Grand Strand office is located at 1500 U.S. Highway 17, Suite 304 in Surfside Beach. It is also open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays. Grand Strand residents can call 843-353-5377 for assistance.

The opening of the Pee Dee office means all 7th District constituents have local representatives, Fry said.

"We are finally fully staffed. We have phones. We have internet. We have personnel and we have some furniture, too. We need a little bit more, but we have some," he said.
COLUMBIA  Legislation advancing in the Statehouse seeks to keep teachers in the classroom by reducing their paperwork burdens and out-of-pocket expenses while giving them more flexibility in their annual contracts.

The bill sent unanimously April 18 to the House Education Committee would make a professional teaching certificate permanent, eliminating the bureaucratic hurdles involved in renewing it every five years through the state Department of Education.

It would also allow teachers to know their salary for the coming school year before being locked in a contract they can't get out of without risking their ability to teach for a year or more.

The measure also reduces the punishment for breaching that contract once signed, allowing teachers to return to a classroom quicker.

The Educator Assistance Act is meant to treat teachers like the professionals they are and reduce the red tape that can cause them to abandon the field out of frustration, its main sponsor, House Education Chairwoman Shannon Erickson, R-Beaufort, said.

"This is a bill that truly does what it says," Patrick Kelly, lobbyist for the Palmetto State Teachers Association, said about the title.

The measure addresses three reasons teachers repeatedly give for abandoning their career: Lack of support, respect and time to teach, said Kelly, who's also a high school teacher in suburban Richland Two.

Currently, teachers must show completion of 120 hours of continuing education over five years to get their certificate renewed by the state. What's accepted toward meeting that requirement varies district by district, with some allowing in-district training to count and others requiring time beyond what's in their contract, such as conferences and college coursework they pay for themselves.

Erickson called it overkill that creates a paperwork nightmare.

The bill would not affect local training and contract requirements.

Those can exceed 200 hours every five years, given that districts can mandate five to seven days of professional training yearly, Kelly said.

"We will continue to engage in professional growth and development," he said. "All this bill removes is the fact that every five years, teachers have to scramble to find documentation for courses they took five years ago so they can submit it to their assistant principal, who can submit it to district HR who sends it to the state department."

The proposal would knock out unnecessary paperwork shuffles for teachers and administrators, who could then devote their time instead to recruiting to fill vacancies, Kelly said.

It would also give teachers more time to decide whether they want to commit to another year in their current job.

Currently, teachers must sign their annual contract by May 11, usually weeks before their school board approves the district's budget and sets their salaries. Breaking that contract without their school board's written approval is deemed unprofessional conduct resulting in a 12-month suspension of their teaching certificate, with the yearlong clock starting whenever the State Board of Education hears the case.

And it can take months for the state board to get the case, resulting in a suspension that may keep a teacher from being hired by any district in South Carolina for 16 months or more.

"That's really taking someone's livelihood away," said Rep. Jeff Bradley, R-Hilton Head Island, the subcommittee chairman.

Some districts are more lenient than others in allowing teachers to break a contract, teacher advocates testified.

As the teacher shortage has worsened, districts have cracked down. Teachers have been turned in for suspensions because their spouse was deployed or changed jobs, or they had to care for an aging parent, Kelly said.

During the pandemic, teachers who had to leave the classroom for medical reasons were suspended, said Sherry East, president of the South Carolina Education Association.

The proposal still keeps the May 11 deadline but allows teachers to submit a withdrawal notice up to 10 days after the district posts the local salary schedule, which pays teachers according to their years of experience and degree.

There is no other profession where employees must accept a job, and be committed to it for a year, two months before learning what their paycheck will look like, Erickson said.

Under the proposal, if a teacher is punished for breach of contract, the suspension lasts up to six months from the date the teacher left, not the state board hearing. It also gives board members more leeway in deciding whether to suspend at all, making it an option based on the evidence, not a must.
COLUMBIA  State lawmakers say they want to help South Carolinas beleaguered horse industry, but the two principal efforts to do something appear dead following the defeat April 18 of a measure that would have pumped in cash through a tax on horse feed.

The other bill, which would fund the industry by legalizing and taxing online horse race wagering, was passed narrowly in the House earlier this month but has not been taken up in the state Senate.

Even if the Senate passes the horse race gambling bill, as supporters insist it will, the governor has pledged to veto it and social conservatives have spoken out against it.

Its possible the House could add money into this years budget to directly appropriate cash to the effort, but at this stage in the budget process with the Senate poised to pass its version this week, the time has likely run out for that.

So South Carolina's struggling equestrians will likely wait at least another year for relief from the state.

On April 18, advocates turned out to a House subcommittee meeting to plead their case.

We are a hollow shell of what we once were, Ned Towell, the owner of a Camden horse farm, said of his regions generations-old equine industry.

He recounted the steady emptying of stables, the closure of farms and the declining caliber of local competitions.

The reason behind the drop in business is simple, Towell said. Competition, competition, competition.

Other states have invested in facilities and lavished incentives on owners and breeders who stable their horses in their states while South Carolina has fallen behind.

The bill the horsemen were advocating would institute a $2-per-ton fee on horse feed; that's about a nickel per bag. The money collected would go to an 11-member appointed board that would give the funds out as grants to support the state's horse industry.

The state's Revenue and Fiscal Affairs Office estimates the new fee would generate $151,000 for such grants. The board would also be charged with promoting the industry.

You talked about all the different boards that we have  the pork board, the beef board  there isnt an equine board, Tommy Doyle, the owner of Palmetto Carriage Works, which operates Charlestons horse drawn tours, told the subcommittee.

Theres nobody out there talking about things that are important to the horse community, he added.

The House panel voted down the bill, with three Republicans voting against the panels lone Democratic member while its chairman, Rep. Bill Chumley, R-Woodruff, abstained.

The concerns that led to the defeat were largely over the potential for the fee to apply to stock feed for all animals, not just horses.

Rep. Bill Hixon, a Republican from North Augusta who owns a farm, waved a printed photo of a bag of feed with a horse, cow and goat on it, worrying that farmers could be penalized because theyre feeding a cow something with a horse on it.

Several representatives said the Legislature should appropriate money to support the equine industry rather than levying a fee; similar arguments were leveled against the horse race betting bill.

Itd be simpler to write them a check than set up all this bureaucracy, said Rep. Randy Ligon, R-Chester. Were burning up more money talking about it than the horses are going to get.

Rep. Dennis Moss, a Gaffney Republican who owns several horses and was the bills lead sponsor, expressed mild frustration after the vote that many of his colleagues say they want to support the equine industry but vote against efforts to do so. He said he believed the fee would only be applied to feed specifically labeled for horses, but that he would confer with legislators in North Carolina on how their feed fee system works.

He wants to amend the budget to include money for the equine industry and see how his colleagues vote on it.
PR-Inside.com: 2023-04-18 16:02:00

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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Aegis Capital Corp., - Aegis Capital Corp. ( www.aegiscapcorp.com) a full-service wealth management, financial services and investment banking firm is pleased to announce the addition of the Standard Integrity Wealth Management team located in Rochester, New York. The group is led by Nicholas Trifiro, Managing Director.Nicholas Trifiro has over 25 years of experience in the financial services industry and manages in excess of $100 million in client assets. Nick is the founder of Standard Integrity Wealth Management, LLC1, and joined Aegis as a Managing Director. Nick earned a bachelor's degree in business management from St. John Fisher University in 1988 and gained real world experience working in management positions in the commercial printing and gaming industries in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Nick then returned to Rochester in 1993 to work for Paychex, one of the country's premier payroll processing companies. During this time, he helped launch the 401k retirement plan department for small businesses and simultaneously earned a Graduate Certificate from the Industrial Labor Relations Department at Cornell University.Prior to joining Aegis, Nick began his career in the financial industry with UBS PaineWebber for 7 years, then went on to gain experience working at Investacorp, Inc. and Securities America, Inc. for roughly the next 20 years. In 2002, Nick established his independent practice to better align himself with the needs of the local community. Nick spends his time helping families and growing businesses throughout the upstate NY area with customized investment solutions, financial planning, family trust services and corporate retirement plan solutions. Although Nick is based in Rochester, NY, and focuses his time in the Rochester, Buffalo, and Syracuse areas he also maintains clients throughout the United States.Robert Eide Aegis' CEO commented: "We are thrilled to have Nick and his team join Aegis. Nick has a thorough understanding of the wealth management business, as well as the importance of delivering a robust platform to clients. We appreciate the confidence they have shown in Aegis, and we look forward to supporting and helping them grow." Michael Pata Aegis' Head of Business Development commented: "Our new office in Rochester reflects our commitment to growth and our focus on providing the best possible service to advisers. Aegis continues to offer a compelling alternative for advisers looking for a collaborative compliance team, a robust platform, and an accessible executive team. Nick and Standard Integrity Wealth Management are a welcomed addition to Aegis, and we look forward to enhancing their practice." About Aegis Capital CorporationAegis Capital Corporation "Aegis" has been in business for roughly 40 years catering to the needs of private clients, institutions and corporations. Aegis was founded in 1984 and offers its investment representatives a conflict free service platform and is able to provide a full range of products and services including investment banking, wealth management, insurance, retirement planning, structured products, private equity, alternatives, equity research, fixed income and special purpose vehicles.Aegis is able to provide quality service through its primary clearing relationship with RBC Clearing & Custody whose parent company, Royal Bank of Canada (NYSE:RY), is one of the world's leading diversified financial services companies. Member: FINRA / SIPC.1 Standard Integrity Wealth Management, LLC -Brokerage and investment advisory services are offered through Aegis Capital Corporation, a Member: FINRA/SIPCAny questions contact:Michael Pata, Head of Business DevelopmentTelephone: 1-212-813-1010mpata@ aegiscap.com SOURCE: Aegis Capital Corp.
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Railroad Contractors Consolidate to Increase Services and Geographic ReachEDMONTON, AB / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / As a leading provider of inspection, maintenance, repair and specialized construction services for industrial railroad infrastructure in the United States, American Track Services ("ATS") is proud to announce the acquisition of Universal Rail Systems ("URS") in Canada and the creation of a new parent company, North American Rail Solutions.North American Rail SolutionsNorth American Rail Solutions, American Track and Universal Rail Systems logos With the establishment of North American Rail Solutions, the two existing brands will operate under a consolidated umbrella, with ATS serving customers in the United States and URS serving customers in Canada. ATS and URS will remain focused on quality service while continuing to increase their geographic reach and combining their capabilities to deliver an industry-leading suite of solutions and services in both countries. The North American Rail Solutions brands partner with organizations of all sizes and across all industries to help them build and strengthen their rail transportation infrastructure to support operational growth.Following this transaction, Thomas Lucario, current Chief Executive Officer of American Track Services, will serve as CEO for North American Rail Solutions, ATS, and URS. Ken Reger will serve as CFO. Tim McMillan will serve as President and COO of URS, lead operations in Canada, and will join the Board of Directors of North American Rail Solutions."The creation of North American Rail Solutions along with the consolidation of American Track Services and Universal Rail Systems will create increased capabilities that are unmatched in the industry," said Thomas Lucario, CEO of American Track Services. As a team of proactive experts with unparalleled industry experience, we are able to deliver the largest and most trusted rail services platform in North America. With this acquisition, we can now leverage our combined size and suite of services to support our partners and customers whenever and wherever they need us. The URS team has consistently provided excellent service and have proven themselves as the industry leader in Canada. ATS and URS share a common culture centered on customer service, quality, and responsiveness both internally and externally. We are proud to welcome Tim McMillan and the entire URS team into the North American Rail Solutions and American Track Services family." Tim McMillan, President and COO for URS added: "We are excited to partner with the ATS team to create the newly formed North American Rail Solutions. Our combined experience, resources, and scale will enable us to provide our customers with the highest level of service throughout North America. We very much look forward to this next chapter of growth in our business." In 2021, DFW Capital Partners acquired American Track Services and has assisted with an aggressive strategy to grow the organization organically and through acquisition. Operating from 12 full-service offices in strategically located U.S. markets, the company provides mission-critical services to its customers that ensure the safety, compliance, operability, and flexibility of onsite railway assets. American Track Services serves a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, petrochemical, mining, agricultural products, food and beverage, basic raw materials, ports, transload facilities, and short-line railroads.Keith Pennell, Managing Partner of DFW Capital Partners, added: "Less than 18 months after our original investment in American Track Services, we have become the leading North American provider of rail inspection, maintenance, repair, and niche construction services to industrial customers. With the addition of Universal Rail Systems, we will not only broaden our footprint into Canada, but build upon established relationships and proven capabilities in the Class 1 and transit segments - all while partnering with a first-class team of industry veterans. We are excited to welcome the entire URS organization under the new North American Rail Solutions umbrella!"ATS acquired URS from an investor group led by TorQuest Partners ("TorQuest"). TorQuest's Mike Salisbury stated: "We are proud of the partnership we have built with the URS management team over the years and wish them continued success in this new chapter with North American Rail Solutions." URS was represented in the process by Northborne Partners and Lazard. Affiliates of DFW Capital Partners made an additional equity investment in the company, coupled with support from ATS' existing lender, PineBridge Investments. Financial terms of the transaction are not being disclosed.North American Rail SolutionsHeadquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, North American Rail Solutions is an international railroad services organization serving clientele across the continent. The organization's unmatched reach is supported by an interconnected network of entrenched local offices and entities, enabling the team to respond to any railroad issue, anywhere within the United States or Canada. North American Rail Solutions ( www.NorthAmericanRailSolutions.com) is a portfolio company of DFW Capital Partners.American Track ServicesHeadquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, American Track Services is the leading independent provider of turnkey railroad design, repair, maintenance, construction, inspection, and terminal services for critical rail infrastructure at industrial, short-line, municipal, and logistics sites in the United States. www.AmericanTrack.com Universal Rail SystemsHeadquartered in Edmonton, Alberta, Universal Rail Systems is the leading railway infrastructure service provider in Canada, operating out of 12 locations across Canada from West coast to East Coast. URS is the largest provider of industrial rail inspection, maintenance, construction and terminal services in Canada. In addition, URS provides Class I and Transit customer support services including construction, flagging, signals, and ticketing. www.universalrail.com DFW Capital PartnersDFW Capital Partners is a private equity investment firm focused on lower middle-market companies. With ~$2 billion under management, the firm concentrates on service companies, with an emphasis on outsourced business and industrial support services, and healthcare companies. DFW has established a 20+ year track record of success in both building leading companies and recognizing attractive returns for its investors. DFW is headquartered in Teaneck, New Jersey and maintains an office in Chevy Chase, Maryland. Additional inform
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SALT LAKE CITY, UT / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Arvana Inc. ("OTC:AVNI") today issued a clarification to its prior press release dated April 12, 2023, regarding the forward-split of its common stock.The April 12, 2023, press release generated some confusion over the record date for those stockholders entitled to the additional forward-split shares, and the effective date for the anticipated delivery of the forward-split shares. Arvana wishes to clarify and confirm the details of the forward-split.The forward-split will take effect following the close of business on April 18, 2023, on a ratio of three (3) new shares of Arvana common stock for each (1) share of common stock outstanding, that will be deliverable on or about April 19, 2023, to stockholders of record on March 31, 2023.The total number of outstanding shares of common stock will increase from 35,948,518 shares to 107,845,554 shares after the forward-split takes effect with no change in the par value of Arvana's common stock or in the number of its authorized shares.For additional information concerning the forward split, please refer to Arvana's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission or contact us directly.Arvana Inc.Arvana ("OTC:AVNI") is a public company registered under the Securities & Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, that is quoted on the OTC Pink Sheets Current Information Alternative Reporting platform. We operate a fishing charter business through our wholly owned subsidiary Down2Fish Charters, LLC.Down2Fish offers a range of curated maritime adventures that include inshore, offshore, and custom charters for fishing enthusiasts, nature lovers, and sea bound adventurers. Our business is operated from a private dock in Palmetto, Florida to service the Greater Tampa Bay area including St Petersburg, Venice, Sarasota, and Clearwater.Forward-Looking StatementsSeveral statements contained in this press release are forward-looking statements of future expectations based on currently available information that are subject to risks and uncertainties including general economic conditions, changes in capital markets, regulatory legislation, and other circumstances that may cause actual results to be materially different from those expectations. Arvana does not make any representation or warranty, express or implied, as to the accuracy, completeness, or status of such statements so it will not be liable for any decision made or action taken in conjunction with the information and/or statements contained in this press release. Arvana encourages the public to read the information provided in conjunction with its recent filings on Schedule 14c, Form 8-K, Form 10-Q and Form 10-K, which may be viewed at www.sec.gov Contact:Ruairidh Campbell, Chief Executive OfficerPhone: +1 801-232-7395Email: ruairidhcampbell@ msn.com Website: https://arvana.us SOURCE: Arvana Inc.
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HOUSTON, TX / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Houston, Texas attorney Paul Sternberg has spent decades helping local clients overcome their legal battles. His specialty is helping those threatened or harmed by online defamation attacks.The Communications Decency Act of 1996 (CDA) was congress's first attempt to regulate pornographic material on the internet. Paul Sternberg, attorney at law, explains that this act's primary purpose was to protect children from viewing "obscene or indecent" material published on the internet. Essentially, the CDA criminalized knowing transmission of obscene messages and material to minors.However, in 1997, the U.S. Supreme Court deemed this section of the CDA unconstitutional in Reno v. American Civil Liberties Union, saying it infringed upon First Amendment free speech protections. The court ruled that, though the government had an interest in protecting children from harmful materials, the CDA was an "unnecessarily broad suppression of speech addressed to adults." Sternberg explains that, as a result, the CDA's most important feature became known as Section 230, which many like to refer to as the "twenty-six words that created the internet." Section 230 states that websites like Google and Facebook are immune from lawsuits based on claims related to content published by third parties.An unintended consequence of Section 230 is that it has created at a space for false and defamatory statements made about individuals or businesses to flourish. A defamatory statement is one that contains an assertion of fact or implies an assertion of fact that is false or disparaging. These types of statements serve to cause harm to the reputation of a business or individual.Under traditional defamation law, a website might be considered a publisher or republished of defamatory content and would therefore be held liable for the content. However, many websites simply couldn't exist outside the protection of Section 230 because the legal liability would overwhelm them.Sternberg notes that certain websites such as Ripoff Report and Consumer Complaints Board have been designed to cater to negative reviews. While these reviews might be helpful for consumers, the problem is that people can post any type of statement they want, even if it's defamatory.Because of Section 230, businesses may feel defenseless against online defamatory claims made about them. Though they can submit a complaint to the website and sometimes, they will remove defamatory statements under certain conditions, this usually involves an arbitration process where someone must first prove their case. The website companies, themselves, however, cannot be sued.Sternberg explains that there is a way around Section 230 though. An individual or business may not be able to sue the website for defamation, but they can file a lawsuit against the author of the defamatory statement posted on the website. Though the author of the defamatory statement may not be clear in some cases, there are processes of identifying them. For example, a subpoena can be issued so that the website must identify the author through their IP address, email, or name provided. If that isn't a possibility, a forensic linguistic expert can be hired to identify the author based on their writing patterns, punctuation, and style.If a court order or injunction that requires the website to remove the statements can be obtained, the injured party can then send it to Google and they will remove it from their search index.The good news is that, despite Section 230, businesses and individuals are not completely defenseless against defamatory statements made about them online.Paul M. Sternberg owns a private practice law firm in Houston, Texas. He concentrates his practice in the areas of internet defamation law as well as business law. Mr. Sternberg is a graduate from the A.B.Freeman School of Business at Tulane University in 1987, and a 1996 graduate from South Texas College of Law in Houston. Mr. Sternberg, a seasoned entrepreneur, is the author of THE GUIDE TO INTERNET DEFAMATION AND WEBSITE REMOVAL and THE GUIDE TO INVESTING IN COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE. He has 10 years of experience on representing clients who have been the victims of defamatory cyber-attacks. Mr. Sternberg has developed a reliable blueprint in securing positive solutions in most cases. He has shared his professional knowledge with FOX NEWS and many other media outlets to discuss internet defamation. He is a frequent speaker to attorneys and community groups. He may be reached at www.TheDefamationAttorney.com or his office at 713-789-8120.THIS ARTICLE SHOULD NOT BE RELIED UPON AS LEGAL ADVICEAttorney Paul Sternberg, of Houston, Texas, states and declares that the above text is not offered as legal advice, but is provided as general information. The information contained within may not be suitable for all individuals or situations. No attorney-client relationship is created or implied by the provision of this information, nor does the aforementioned make any warranties, whether expressed or implied, of any kind. To discuss a particular situation in more detail, please contact attorney Paul Sternberg for a consultation by calling 713-392-4322.SOURCE: Sternberg Law Firm
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TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Bold Ventures Inc. (BOL:TSXV) (the "Company" or "Bold") is pleased to report additional results and interpretation of the VTEM Electromagnetic and Magnetic survey carried out by Geotech Ltd. of Aurora, Ontario on its Farwell Gold-Copper Project. The survey results have now been incorporated into the existing data base in order to prioritize anomalies for future exploration and ultimately for drill testing.Bold Ventures Inc. recently contracted Scott Hogg and Associates Ltd. to provide a study of 2 airborne geophysical surveys conducted over the Farwell Gold-Copper Project located 55 km northwest of Wawa, Ontario. One survey was a Dighem airborne magnetic-electromagnetic survey completed by the Ontario Geological Survey (OGS) in 1987 and the second was the VTEM survey flown for Bold in the fall of 2022.Geophysical analysis indicates the presence of a regional northwest-southeast structural feature following a magnetic low, which crosscuts the property geology and the extension to the Iron Lake Deformation Zone in the central portion of the claim group - see map. The structural axis has been traced in a regional context from the northwest portion of the Farwell claims to Wesdome Gold Mines Mishi Open Pit Mine southeast of the property (a distance of approximately 12 km). Production at the Mishi Mine in 2021 was 36,508 t milled @ 2.4 g/t Au for a total of 2283 oz Au (OGS Open File Report 6384, Azadbakht et al. 2022). This feature may represent a possible location for gold and base metal mineralization. As a result of this interpretation, further work is recommended in the form of a detailed high resolution airborne magnetic survey along the identified structure.Significant, coincident, magnetic-electromagnetic anomalies associated with the Bibis Copper Occurrence (located immediately west of the regional NW-SE structure), were also identified in the Farwell Sulphide Zone within the south-central portion of the property. Historic diamond drilling returned 1.47% Cu over 5.2 m in this area. Two well-defined EM conductors, revealed by both the Dighem and VTEM surveys, with coincident moderate magnetic signatures, were located east (500 m) and northeast (300 m) of the known copper mineralization. The study indicated that since the confirmed copper mineralization is near but not coincident with the conductors this could imply the main body was overlooked. Diamond drilling was recommended for both these targets.The geology of the Farwell property is oriented in a general East-Northeast to West-Southwest direction. The convention for property wide surveying is to survey across the general strike of the geology in order to obtain an optimum signal. At Farwell, the magnetic low trend cuts across the geology and is therefore sub parallel to the flight lines. This is less than ideal for obtaining an optimal geophysical definition of this feature.Taking these factors into account and to enhance the drill targets that have been located by the VTEM survey, a high-resolution airborne magnetometer survey is recommended to cover the magnetic low trend and the area to the west within the claims.Bold's 2022 VTEM program is the first large-scale airborne survey completed over the Farwell Property since a 1987 Dighem MAG-EM survey flown by the OGS, which was part of a much larger area covering the Michipicoten and Mishibishu Greenstone Belts. Current advancements in digital technology provide greater accuracy with Global Positioning Systems (GPS) location, increased depth penetration and enhanced target resolution compared to historical surveys.Farwell Gold - Copper ProjectHistorical work within the Farwell claims indicates a high potential for significant concentrations of copper, gold, zinc, lead and silver. A major regional structure known as the Iron Lake Deformation Zone (ILDZ), passes through the central east part of the claim area. Immediately east of the Farwell Property within the ILDZ, Tundra Gold Mines reported samples up to 35.5 g/t gold (Au) in 1988 (Argo Gold Inc. 2020).For the purpose of reporting the initial property exploration, the claim group has been divided into three key areas.The Farwell Sulphide ZoneIn the southeast portion of the property, historical work has recorded numerous samples anomalous in Copper (Cu), Silver (Ag), Gold (Au), Lead (Pb) and Zinc (Zn). A grab sample recorded by the Ontario geological Survey in 1968 returned 5.58% Cu and 20.5 g/t Ag. Historical, near surface diamond drilling results ranged up to 1.47% Cu over 5.2 m at the Bibis showing. Grab samples also collected during the same period over a 10.7 m zone of heavy to massive sulphide mineralization, at the Burex showing, returned up to 0.18% Cu and 0.9 g/t Ag associated with pyrrhotite (Po), pyrite (Py) and chalcopyrite (CuFeS2) (Bennett and Thurston 1977).The Tundra Gold HorizonLocated in the east-central portion of the claim group, the Tundra Gold Horizon is mapped as an extension of the ILDZ in contact with "Tamiskiming" style metasediments (Bennet and Thurston 1977).Soil sampling carried out along the ILDZ by Precambrian Ventures in 2008 located strong Au and Cu anomalies within the Farwell claims. Of these areas, particular attention will be paid to the Brown Lake Occurrence (high Au in a Mobile Metal Ion anomaly with 0.83% Cu), the Conductor B Occurrence (712 ppb Au in association with sulphide mineralization) and the location of a grab sample taken by Tundra Gold Mines in 1985 that assayed 7.5 g/t Au, 1.58% Cu and 19.9 g/t Ag (Campbell 2010).The Koala Gold AreaThe Koala Gold area occupies the west portion of the claim group and has been explored sporadically over the years and highlights three locations for follow up exploration. From 1986 to 1988, Koala Resources drilled a number of shallow drill holes that returned 3.4 g/t Au over 0.66m (Henriksen 1988) and 12.8 g/t Au over 1.52m (White 1987) at two separate locations. A third location that exhibited a soil geochemical anomaly of 557 ppb Au, was drill tested and logged as a sulphidized Iron formation hosting 40% Po and 5% Py (Henriksen 1988). No gold values were posted on the historical logs.The technical and scientific disclosures in this news release have been reviewed and approved by Gerald D. White, B.Sc., P.Geo., a qualified person (QP) under National Instrument 43-101.About Bold Ventures Inc.The Company explores for Gold and Battery Metals in Canada. Bold is exploring properties located within active gold camps of Northern Ontario. Bold also holds significant assets located within and around the emerging multi-metals district dubbed the Ring of Fire region, located in the James Bay Lowlands of Northern Ontario.As
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. Minister of Defense of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Colonel General Zakir Hasanov, at the invitation of the Minister of Defense of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Colonel General Ruslan Zhaksylykov left for an official visit to this country, Trend reports via the Defense Ministry of Azerbaijan.

At the meeting, which will take place as part of the visit, it is planned to discuss the prospects for the development of cooperation between the two countries in the military, military-technical, and military-educational fields, as well as other issues of mutual interest.
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Keys NOW! machines instantly replace car keys-including "smart" keys and high-security "laser-cut" keys, allowing hardware retailers to regain category dominance.LOUISVILLE, KY / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Car Keys Express, the U.S.-based global leader in automotive key replacement, introduces new Keys NOW! Automated Key MachinesTM configured to the needs of hardware retailers. Hardware stores in New England were the first to receive new units.Keys NOW! Automated Key MachineKeys NOW! Automated Key Machines are now available with consumer-DIY EZ Installers for pairing. For more than 70 years, the hardware channel was the go-to destination for car key replacement. Early transponder keys could be duplicated cheaply and easily at every local hardware store.But newer car keys must be paired with customers' vehicles and cannot be cloned. This requirement alone has deterred many hardware retailers from offering modern car keys. Those that do have struggled with difficult-to-use key machines and complicated programming equipment.Car Keys Express eliminates the barriers preventing hardware retailers from succeeding in modern car keys. The new Keys NOW! machines combine hands-free, automated key duplication with easy app-based key pairing consumers can complete on their own.Keys NOW! is the world's first and only fully-automated house and car key duplication machine. It's as easy to use as a microwave oven. Open the door, insert the key, then stand back. A precisely duplicated key is produced instantly. With traditional manual key-cutting machines, store employees fear making expensive miscuts, so they often avoid customers altogether. Keys NOW! machines eliminate human error, duplicating at near 100% accuracy, so anyone can cut keys accurately, safely, and instantly.Because the machine does all of the cutting, key duplication requires 50% less associate time than legacy machines. The machines keep key inventory secure, eliminating most shrink. And unlike other key systems, consumers can engage with Keys NOW! to make product selections and confirm pricing on their own before a store associate completes their order. With new hardware configurations, consumers-not retailers-use a Universal EZ Installer to easily pair new car keys or remotes on their own using an app on their phone. That means retailers can stop sending their employees to the parking lot to work on customers' cars.With Keys NOW! coverage topping 220 million vehicles, hardware retailers can finally stop directing customers to dealerships for keys. Now customers can instantly replace car keys without the time, expense, and hassle of a dealership service appointment."Hardware retailers turn away millions of customers simply because their key programs are out of date, expensive, and overly complicated," said Kirk Stewart, Chief Commercial Officer for Car Keys Express. "To succeed with modern keys, retailers must address complex inventory requirements, upgrade cutting equipment for new high-security keyblades, and spend the time to train employees on cutting and pairing equipment. We solved all of those issues with Keys NOW!""Entering the hardware segment with our Keys NOW! machines and EZ Installers is a milestone event," said Mark Lanwehr, Founder and CEO of Car Keys Express. "Our company mission from the beginning has been to make car keys simple and affordable again. By nature, this is disruptive to a multi-billion dollar OEM and dealership business model where consumer pricing is unchecked, leading to astronomical prices for car keys. Car Keys Express has leveraged technology to reduce prices for consumers and simplify key replacement for retailers, allowing them to again enter this profitable space and in the process solidifying Car Keys Express as the innovator in the key replacement category." Now in its 20th year, Car Keys Express is disrupting the automotive key replacement industry, developing tools and keys that let retailers easily re-enter the high-margin car key business.Be the first retailer in your market to offer car keys made "on the spot" with these fully-automated, easy-to-use solutions.For more information or to request a store test, contact Retail@ CarKeysExpress.com About Car Keys ExpressCar Keys Express is a global leader in discount automotive key replacement for businesses and consumers. The company invented the world's first Universal Car Remote and Universal Car Keys and is the only company that manufactures a full line of aftermarket versions of modern car keys, like remote keys and smart keys. Car Keys Express offers a complete line of retail-friendly solutions to allow retailers to build a key replacement program or enhance an existing program. Car Care Express, a division of Car Keys Express, offers mobile vehicle reconditioning services for businesses and consumers. Founded in 2002, Car Keys Express is continually recognized for excellence in the industry, winning Inc. Magazine's, "Inc. 5000" in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021, AAPEX "Best New Product" Award in 2015 and 2019, Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year in 2017, and EnterpriseCorp's FAST Innovation Award Winner in 2017, among others. To learn more, visit www.CarKeysExpress.com Contact InformationBruce BurtonMarketing Manager, Car Keys Expressbburton@ ikeyless.com 360-607-1949SOURCE: Car Keys Express
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NEW ORLEANS, LA / ACCESSWIRE / April 17, 2023 / Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF") and KSF partner, former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., remind investors that they have until May 8, 2023 to file lead plaintiff applications in securities class action lawsuits against Credit Suisse Group AG (NYSE:CS), if they purchased the Company's securities between March 10, 2022 and March 15, 2023, inclusive (the "Class Period"). These actions are pending in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey.What You May DoIf you purchased securities of Credit Suisse and would like to discuss your legal rights and how these cases might affect you and your right to recover for your economic loss, you may, without obligation or cost to you, contact KSF Managing Partner Lewis Kahn toll-free at 1-877-515-1850 or via email ( lewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com) , or visit https://www.ksfcounsel.com/cases/nyse-cs/ to learn more. If you wish to serve as a lead plaintiff in the class action, you must petition the Court by May 8, 2023.About the LawsuitsCredit Suisse and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.On February 9, 2023, the Company announced its 2022 financial results, disclosing that, contrary to its prior statements, it had continued to experience large customer outflows through yearend 2022, specifically, outflows of 110.5 billion Swiss francs in the final three months of 2022, a figure which far exceeded market expectations. On this news, shares of Credit Suisse fell $0.56 per ADS, or 15.64%, to close at $3.02 per ADS on February 9, 2023. Then, on March 15, 2023, news media sources revealed that the Company's "biggest backer," Saudi National Bank, would not buy any more of the Company's shares on regulatory grounds. On this news, shares of Credit Suisse fell 13.94% to close at $2.16 per ADS.The case is Calhoun v. Credit Suisse Group AG, et al., No. 23-cv-01297.A subsequently-filed case, Turner v. Credit Suisse Group AG, et al., No. 23-cv-01476, expanded the class period.About Kahn Swick & Foti, LLCKSF, whose partners include former Louisiana Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr., is one of the nation's premier boutique securities litigation law firms. KSF serves a variety of clients - including public institutional investors, hedge funds, money managers and retail investors - in seeking recoveries for investment losses emanating from corporate fraud or malfeasance by publicly traded companies. KSF has offices in New York, California, Louisiana and New Jersey.To learn more about KSF, you may visit http://ksfcounsel.com/ CONTACT:Kahn Swick & Foti, LLCLewis Kahn, Managing Partner1-877-515-18501100 Poydras St., Suite 960New Orleans, LA 70163SOURCE: Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC
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NEW ORLEANS, LA / ACCESSWIRE / April 17, 2023 / Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF") and KSF partner, former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., remind investors that they have until May 1, 2023 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against Dutch Bros Inc. ("Dutch" or the "Company") (NYSE:BROS), if they purchased the Company's securities between March 1, 2022 and May 11, 2022, inclusive (the "Class Period"). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York.What You May DoIf you purchased securities of Dutch and would like to discuss your legal rights and how this case might affect you and your right to recover for your economic loss, you may, without obligation or cost to you, contact KSF Managing Partner Lewis Kahn toll-free at 1-877-515-1850 or via email ( lewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com) , or visit https://www.ksfcounsel.com/cases/nyse-bros/ to learn more. If you wish to serve as a lead plaintiff in this class action, you must petition the Court by May 1, 2023.About the LawsuitDutch Bros and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.On May 11, 2022, the Company disclosed dismal 1Q2022 financial results including a net loss of $16.3 million, compared to a net loss of $4.8 million for the first quarter of 2021 and an adjusted net loss of $2.5 million (a loss of $0.02 per share), which fell below analysts' expectations, due to its failure to "perceive the speed and magnitude of cost escalation within the quarter," among other things.On this news, shares of Dutch fell $9.26, or 26.9%, to close at $25.11 per share on May 12, 2022.The case is Peacock v. Dutch Bros Inc., et al., No. 23-cv-01797.About Kahn Swick & Foti, LLCKSF, whose partners include former Louisiana Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr., is one of the nation's premier boutique securities litigation law firms. KSF serves a variety of clients - including public institutional investors, hedge funds, money managers and retail investors - in seeking recoveries for investment losses emanating from corporate fraud or malfeasance by publicly traded companies. KSF has offices in New York, California, Louisiana and New Jersey.To learn more about KSF, you may visit http://ksfcounsel.com/ CONTACT:Kahn Swick & Foti, LLCLewis Kahn, Managing Partner1-877-515-18501100 Poydras St., Suite 960New Orleans, LA 70163SOURCE: Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC
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NEW ORLEANS, LA / ACCESSWIRE / April 17, 2023 / Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC ("KSF") and KSF partner, former Attorney General of Louisiana, Charles C. Foti, Jr., remind investors that they have until May 5, 2023 to file lead plaintiff applications in a securities class action lawsuit against Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. (NYSE:FIS), if they purchased the Company's shares between February 9, 2021 and February 10, 2023, inclusive (the "Class Period"). This action is pending in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida.What You May DoIf you purchased shares of Fidelity National and would like to discuss your legal rights and how this case might affect you and your right to recover for your economic loss, you may, without obligation or cost to you, contact KSF Managing Partner Lewis Kahn toll-free at 1-877-515-1850 or via email ( lewis.kahn@ksfcounsel.com) , or visit https://www.ksfcounsel.com/cases/nyse-fis/ to learn more. If you wish to serve as a lead plaintiff in this class action, you must petition the Court by May 5, 2023.About the LawsuitFidelity National and certain of its executives are charged with failing to disclose material information during the Class Period, violating federal securities laws.On July 31, 2019, the Company announced it had completed the acquisition of payments company Worldpay, Inc. for $43 billion, which became part of the Fidelity National Merchant Solutions business. The Company subsequently, assured investors that the integration of Worldpay was "ahead of schedule," achieved "success in revenue synergies," and ultimately was "successfully completed" throughout the Class Period. Then, on February 13, 2023, the Company disclosed that it would be spinning off Worldpay and recording a goodwill impairment charge of $17.6 billion related to its Merchants Solutions business, a write-down of more than 40% of the purchase price for Worldpay just a few years earlier.On this news, shares of Fidelity National fell more than 12%, from a closing price of $75.43 per share on the prior trading day of February 10, 2023 to a closing price of $66.00 per share on February 13, 2023.The case is Palm Bay Police and Firefighters' Pension Fund v. Fidelity National Information Services, Inc., No. 23-cv-252.About Kahn Swick & Foti, LLCKSF, whose partners include former Louisiana Attorney General Charles C. Foti, Jr., is one of the nation's premier boutique securities litigation law firms. KSF serves a variety of clients - including public institutional investors, hedge funds, money managers and retail investors - in seeking recoveries for investment losses emanating from corporate fraud or malfeasance by publicly traded companies. KSF has offices in New York, California, Louisiana and New Jersey.To learn more about KSF, you may visit http://ksfcounsel.com/ Contact:Kahn Swick & Foti, LLCLewis Kahn, Managing Partner1-877-515-18501100 Poydras St., Suite 960New Orleans, LA 70163SOURCE: Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC
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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Scott+Scott Attorneys at Law LLP ("Scott+Scott"), an international shareholder and consumer rights litigation firm, is reminding investors that the deadline to move for lead plaintiff in a securities class action lawsuit against Dutch Bros, Inc. (NYSE:BROS) ("Dutch Bros" or the "Company") and certain other defendants (collectively, "Defendants") is May 1, 2023.CLICK HERE TO RECEIVE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT THIS CLASS ACTIONThe action, which was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York asserts claims under 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act") on behalf of a Class consisting of all persons who purchased or otherwise acquired Dutch Bros securities between March 1, 2022 and May 11, 2022, inclusive (the "Class Period"), and who were damaged thereby (the "Class").According to the complaint, during the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and/or misleading statements, and failed to disclose material adverse facts about the Company's business operations, and prospects. Specifically, Defendants failed to disclose to investors: (1) that the Company was experiencing increased costs and expenses, including on dairy; and (2) that, as a result, the Company was experiencing increased margin pressure and decreased profitability in the first quarter of 2022, among other things.When the truth emerged, according to the Complaint, Dutch Bro's share price fell $9.26 per share, or 26.9%, to close at $25.11 per share on May 12, 2022, thereby injuring investors.Lead Plaintiff DeadlineThe Lead Plaintiff deadline in this action is May 1, 2023. Any member of the proposed Class may seek to serve as Lead Plaintiff through counsel of their choice, or may choose to do nothing and remain a member of the proposed Class.What You Can DoIf you purchased Dutch Bros securities during the Class Period, and suffered damages, realized or unrealized, you are encouraged to contact Scott+Scott attorney Jonathan Zimmerman at (888) 398-9312, or jzimmerman@ scott-scott.com , for more information.About Scott+Scott Attorneys at Law LLPScott+Scott has significant experience in prosecuting major securities, antitrust, and employee retirement plan actions throughout the United States. The firm represents pension funds, foundations, individuals, and other entities worldwide with offices in New York, London, Amsterdam, Connecticut, Virginia, California, and Ohio.Attorney AdvertisingCONTACT:Scott+Scott Attorneys at Law LLPJonathan Zimmerman(888) 398-9312jzimmerman@ scott-scott.com SOURCE: Scott+Scott Attorneys at Law LLP
PR-Inside.com: 2023-04-18 12:32:27

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The report titled Healthcare Artificial Intelligence has recently been published by Absolute Markets Insights which provide readers with a perceptive and cogent business outlook. The data also presents penetrative insights into several industry attributes such as trends, policies, and clients operating in widespread industrial regions. The qualitative and quantitative analysis techniques have also been used by analysts to provide an accurate overview of global business owners and industry trends.Technical expansions of the Healthcare Artificial Intelligence market have been scrutinized by focusing on distinctive technical platforms, tools, and methodologies of the market. Among other salient features of the report, the study also incorporates clients demands as well as insinuates future progress of the market across global regions.Key Players in the Healthcare Artificial Intelligence Market Research Report:IBM Corporation, Welltok, Inc., Intel Corporation, Google, Inc., Next IT Corp., Microsoft Corporation, General Electric Company, Medtronic PLC, Bay Labs Inc., CLoudMedx Inc., Enclitic, General Vision, iCarbonX, maxQ, Corti, Nvidia Corporation, Siemens Healthcare, and Koninklijke Philips N.V.The research study further also highlights the present competitive scenario of the global Healthcare Artificial Intelligence market and centers on some crucial issues faced by various stakeholders.Get a Sample Copy of Report: https://www.absolutemarketsinsights.com/request_sample.php?id=456 Segment Analysis:The global Healthcare Artificial Intelligence market report includes a detailed analysis of the segmentation of this industry. The Healthcare Artificial Intelligence market have been analyzed by focusing on distinctive technical platforms, tools, and methodologies of the market. Among other outstanding features of the report, the study also incorporates clients demands as well as insinuates future progress of the market across global regions. This market is segmented accordingly  by Types and Applications By Componento Hardwareo Softwareo Services By Technologyo Querying Methodo Natural Language Processingo Context-Aware Computingo Speech Recognitiono Machine Learningo Others (Biometrics, AI Modeling, etc.) By Applicationso Robot Assisted Surgeryo Virtual Nursing Assistantso Administrative Workflow Assistanceo Fraud Detection, Connected Machineso Clinical Trialso Preliminary Diagnosiso Others (Dosage Error Reduction, Cybersecurity, etc.) By End Usero Healthcare Providerso Patientso Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology Companieso PayersHealthcare Artificial Intelligence Market Regional Analysis:The analysts have distributed the global Healthcare Artificial Intelligence market into several regions such as North America, Latin America, Asia-Pacific, Africa, and India for a detailed market study. The financial aspects of the business are also meticulously studied referring to several attributes such as price, profit margins and sales by regions during the forecast period 2023-2031.Get Exclusive Discount: https://www.absolutemarketsinsights.com/ask_for_discount.php?id=456 The report also includes information on significant market players in order to deliver penetrative insights into the businesses with regards to successful strategies of top-notch companies. Moreover, the report offers comprehensive information of several traders by presenting accurate facts and figures of market shares.Features of the Healthcare Artificial Intelligence Market Report In-depth Healthcare Artificial Intelligence industry data presented in an easy-to-understand format Clear-cut market segmentation of the Healthcare Artificial Intelligence industry, detailing key aspects of each sub-segment Well-analyzed key market player profiles along with their corresponding strategies In-depth intel concerning existing as well as potential trends in the Healthcare Artificial Intelligence market Industry drivers and restraints of the Healthcare Artificial Intelligence market have the potential to influence each of its segments and regions of operation. A precise comprehension of expansion strategies as well as potential acquisitions for various engaged companies. This report offers an amalgam of well-articulated intelligence, along with graphical representations of numerous related market variables.Major Points Covered in TOC:Market Summary: It incorporates six sections, research scope, major players covered, market segments by type, Healthcare Artificial Intelligence market segments by application, study goals and years considered.Market Landscape: Here, the global Healthcare Artificial Intelligence Market is dissected, by value, income, volume, market rate, and most recent patterns. The development and consolidation of the overall industry and top organizations is provided through graphs and piece of the pie for organizations.Profiles of Companies: Here, driving players of the worldwide Healthcare Artificial Intelligence market are considered depending on sales across regions, key innovations, net income, cost, and other factors.Market Status and Outlook by Region: In this segment, the report examines the net deals, income, creation and portion of the overall industry, CAGR and market size by locale. The global Healthcare Artificial Intelligence Market is profoundly examined based on areas and nations like North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America and Middle East & Africa.Segment Analysis: Accurate and reliable foretell about the market share of the essential sections of the Healthcare Artificial Intelligence market is providedMarket Forecasts: In this section, accurate and validated values of the total market size in terms of value and volume are provided by the research analysts. Also, the report includes production, consumption, sales, and other forecasts for the global Healthcare Artificial Intelligence Market.Market Trends: Deep dive analysis of the markets recent and future trends are provided in this section.Enquire Before Buying: https://www.absolutemarketsinsights.com/enquiry_before_buying.php?id=456 About Us:Absolute Markets Insights assists in providing accurate and latest trends related to consumer demand, consumer behavior, sales, and growth opportunities, for the better understanding of the market, thus helping in product designing, featuring, and demanding forecasts. Our experts provide you the end-products that can provide transparency, actionable data, cross-channel deployment program, performance, accurate testing capabilities and the ability to promote ongoing optimization. From the in-depth analysis and segregation, we serve our clients to fulfill their immediate as well as ongoing research requirements. Minute analysis impact large decisions and thereby the source of business intelligence (BI) plays an important role, which keeps us upgraded with current and upcoming market scenarios.Contact Us:Contact Name: Shreyas TannaCompany: Absolute Markets InsightsEmail Id: sales@ absolutemarketsinsights.com Phone: IN +91-7400-24-24-24, US +1-510-420-1213Website: www.absolutemarketsinsights.com
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COEUR D'ALENE, ID / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Idaho Strategic Resources (NYSE American:IDR) ("IDR" or the "Company") is pleased to announce an exploration crosscut intercepted the "H-Vein" at the Golden Chest Mine on March 29th, cutting a strongly mineralized vein that assayed 32.1 grams per tonne (gpt) gold over 0.43 meters on the northern rib and 54.1 gpt over 0.72 meters on the southern rib. Both samples represent true thickness. The H-Vein lies 60 meters (m) west of the Idaho Vein at the 794 elevation in the hangingwall of the Idaho Fault, which is why it is referred to as the H-Vein. The H-Vein is a banded quartz vein known to lie immediately below the Timber King Fault. Both fault and vein zone strike northerly and dip from 70 to 75 degrees to the west. Previous drilling by IDR had identified this vein zone when drilling for targets along the Idaho Vein.This vein system consists of both a banded quartz vein as well as the adjacent silica-flooded zone bearing strong pyrite. The banded vein exhibits abundant visible gold with associated pyrite, galena, chalcopyrite, and sphalerite. IDR's chip samples of the banded vein show assay values ranging between 29 gpt to 73.7 gpt gold. Widths of this banded vein are from 0.4 to 0.72 meters. The adjacent silica-flooded unit is hard, dark-colored and has 3-5 % auriferous pyrite.Muck samples are collected from each 2.5 m long round during drifting and are anticipated to be representative of the diluted grade that can be expected at the mill. Initial drifting along the vein has yielded an average muck sample grade of 25.1 gpt for 24.8 meters of strike length. The H-Vein material is currently being shipped to the mill so the gold grade of the muck samples can be confirmed.Idaho Strategic's VP of Operations, Grant Brackebusch added, "I'm excited about the drifting results on the H-vein because of the high gold grades encountered, and the attitude of the vein which may allow for a more efficient mining method. If our drifting continues to show high grades over increasing strike length, our production emphasis will quickly shift from the Skookum to the H-vein because it's readily accessible from our existing ramp. Additionally, the discovery of the H-vein in the hangingwall of the Idaho Fault opens our eyes to the exploration potential for other steeply dipping, high grade veins in that area. Given the H-Vein's location near the Main Access Ramp (MAR), and the early indication of high gold grades, the H-Vein could increase the gold ounces sent to the mill without increasing development costs." The H-Vein was first noted in three core holes drilled by IDR in 2005. More drilling during a large (18,034 meters) 2011-2012 surface diamond drill program, and two holes in 2022, further defined the H-Vein in nine additional intercepts.Drill intercepts for the H-Vein are shown in the table below and are reported in drill thickness (not true thickness) and in grams of gold per tonne (gpt).GC 05-2H-Vein1.1 gpt gold over 0.8 meters (m)GC 05-3H-Vein15.3 gpt gold over 1.3 mGC 05-4H-Vein6.5 gpt gold over 2.8 mGC 11-01H-Vein4.9 gpt gold over 1.3 mGC 11-03H-Vein7.5 gpt gold over 2.0 mGC 11-05H-Vein6.0 gpt gold over 1.0 mGC 11-06H-Vein17.6 gpt gold over 1.5 mGC 11-10H-Vein4.3 gpt gold over 2.0 mGC 12-119H-Vein6.7 gpt gold over 1.5 mGC 12-120TH-Vein73.4 gpt gold over 1.1 mGC 22-225H-Vein9.78 gpt gold over 1.25 mGC 22-227H-Vein9.6 gpt gold over 1.1 mThe plan to explore and possibly develop the H-Vein into another production area starts with the current drifting program to explore the H-Vein laterally on strike to the north and south at the 794 elevation. The continuity of the vein at this depth is unknown since the 794 Drift is lower than all but one of the drillholes (GC 11-06: 17.6 gpt gold over 1.5 m) which intercepted the H-Vein 90 meters south of the current face at about the same elevation. The second step in the plan will be to extend a crosscut from the 812 Sublevel and intersect the H-Vein and drift along the vein at the 812 elevation, again along strike to the north and south.If ore tonnage blocks are identified by the exploration drifting, they will represent a highly accessible, near-term source of mill feed. The steep dip of the H-Vein means that it is potentially amenable to Long-Hole Stoping methods which would be lower cost and offer less dilution than the current Underhand Cut-and-Fill method employed on the Idaho Vein. Long-Hole Stoping would require competent wallrock so the drifting process will allow for geotechnical observations of the adjacent rock to help in the planning and engineering of future mining methods.The H-Vein was included in the updated Mineral Resource for the year ending December 31, 2022. It made up a small portion of the total Skookum resource with 94,770 tonnes of Measured and Indicated Resource grading 4.3 gpt. Initial exploration drifting is taking place on the margin of the Inferred Resource area and initial results show significantly higher grades than the block model predicted. These initial results suggest that the H-Vein Resource may be remodeled to a higher grade and even possibly reserve classification with additional drifting up and down dip and with further exploration drilling.Qualified personIDR's Vice President , Grant A. Brackebusch, P.E. is a qualified person as such term is defined under S-K 1300 and has reviewed and approved the technical information and data included in this press release. All reported assays are 30-gram fire assays with a gravimetric finish completed by American Analytical, Inc. of Osburn, Idaho. A QA/AC program includes a series of blank, standard, and duplicate sample assays for verification and quality control.About Idaho Strategic Resources, Inc.Domiciled in Idaho and headquartered in the Panhandle of northern Idaho, Idaho Strategic Resources (IDR) is one of the few resource-based companies (public or private) possessing the combination of officially recognized U.S. domestic rare earth elements properties (in Idaho), the largest known concentration of thorium resources in the U.S., and Idaho-based gold production located in an established mining community.Idaho Strategic Resources produces gold at the Golden Chest Mine located in the Murray Gold Belt (MGB) area of the world-class Coeur d'Alene Mining District, north of the prolific Silver Valley. With over 7,300 acres of patented and unpatented land, the Company has the largest private land position in the area following its consolidation of the Murray Gold Belt for the first time in over 100-years.In addition to gold and gold production, the Company maintains an important strategic presence in the U.S. Critical Minera
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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC notifies investors that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Medical Properties Trust, Inc. ("MPT" or the "Company") (NYSE:MPW) and certain of its officers, on behalf of persons and entities that purchased or otherwise acquired MPT securities March 1, 2022 and February 22, 2023, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"). Such investors are encouraged to join this case by visiting the firm's site: www.bgandg.com/mpw This class action seeks to recover damages against Defendants for alleged violations of the federal securities laws.The complaint alleges that throughout the Class Period, defendants made materially false and/or misleading statements, as well as failed to disclose material adverse facts about the Company's business, operations, and prospects. Specifically, Defendants failed to disclose to investors that: (1) Prospect was facing significant pressures affecting the profitability of its Pennsylvania properties; (2) as a result, there was a significant risk that Prospect would be unable to meet its rental obligations owed to MPT; (3) "given the elongated timing of the Pennsylvania recovery," the Company was reasonably likely to record an impairment charge to the real estate value of the Pennsylvania properties; and (4) as a result of the foregoing, defendant's positive statements about the Company's business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to review a copy of the Complaint, you can visit the firm's site: www.bgandg.com/mpwor you may contact Peretz Bronstein, Esq. or his Law Clerk and Client Relations Manager, Yael Nathanson of Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC at 212-697-6484. If you suffered a loss in MPT, you have until June 12, 2023, to request that the Court appoint you as lead plaintiff. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as a lead plaintiff.Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC represents investors in securities fraud class actions and shareholder derivative suits. The firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors nationwide. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.Contact:Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLCPeretz Bronstein or Yael Nathanson212-697-6484 | info@ bgandg.com SOURCE: Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC
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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Macaulay Honors College at the City University of New York (CUNY) and the Liu Shiming Art Foundation hosted a special installation reception and panel discussion to celebrate the work and legacy of Chinese sculptor Liu Shiming. The event took place on April.11th and included a panel discussion featuring panelists Maria Cristina Pio, Fran Kaufman, Louise Weinberg, Angela Goh '23, and Sin-Ying Ho. The event also included the unveiling of Liu Shiming's sculpture work "Dream to Fly" which will be permanently displayed at the Macaulay Honors College.Panel discussion on the work and legacy of Chinese sculptor Liu ShimingLiu Shiming, who passed away in 2010, made a distinct impact on the course of Chinese modern art with his sculptures that focused on people's day-to-day life and the human spirit. Liu Shiming's legacy has been recognized and celebrated by the Central Academy of Fine Arts in Beijing, where he studied and worked. In 2018, the academy founded the Liu Shiming Sculpture Museum to research and investigate Liu's artworks and their historical significance. His works have been displayed in prominent galleries and spaces across the globe, including exhibitions in Beijing, Washington D.C., and a special exhibition in the main atrium of the Oculus in New York City.Macaulay Dean Dara Byrne and the entire Macaulay community were honored to host this special panel discussion and installation ceremony. The panelists brought a wealth of experience in the arts industry and will provide insights into Liu Shiming's work and legacy.Maria Cristina Pio moderated the panel discussion. Pio is the co-director and director of Education and Administration at the Godwin-Ternbach Museum at Queens College, where she oversees all aspects of education programming and administration. Fran Kaufman, a partner at Kaufman Vardy Projects, is also the curator of Liu Shiming's exhibition at Roosevelt Island Visual Arts Association. Louise Weinberg is an accomplished curator, visual artist, and photographer. Angela Goh '23, a senior majoring in art and computer science at Brooklyn College, is the first Liu Shiming Scholar from Macaulay Honors College, and Sin-Ying Ho is the associate professor in ceramics art at Queens College.About The Liu Shiming Art FoundationThe Liu Shiming Art Foundation is a 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization which was founded in 2021 to preserve the works of acclaimed Chinese artist Liu Shiming, as well as for the advancement of the global discourse surrounding the arts, history and culture. The Fund aims to support art students and emerging artists by encouraging them to explore all forms of art, and to engage in a multicultural study of art history. Particularly, the Foundation hopes to foster a greater understanding and appreciation of Asian art forms, and to contextualize them within a global purview. Conceptualizing the creative process by focusing on a multicultural East and West perspective was fundamental to Liu Shiming's identity as an artist, and is consequently a central part of Foundation's identity. Fostering a sense of inclusiveness, the Liu Shiming Art Foundation hopes to remind artists of their power to create art that transcends time or place.About Liu Shiming:Liu Shiming (1926-2010) was a revered Chinese sculptor, whose works have made a distinct impact on the course of modern Chinese sculpture art. Born in 1926, Shiming attended the Central Academy of Fine. As early as 1950, Shiming received international recognition for his work Measuring Land, and thereafter, Shiming continued to make large-scale and publicly displayed sculptures. In the 1960s, Shiming resided in the countryside of Henan and Hebei provinces, where he gained a unique perspective on the working class and rural life. His time outside of the city, and closely handling folk art works in local museums, inspired Shiming to focus on everyday scenes in his works, becoming a common theme of Shiming sculptures. Today, Shiming is recognized for his ability to beautifully capture the most mundane scenes, as well as his aptitude for fusing folk traditions with modern sensibilities. Liu Shiming works have been displayed in prominent galleries and spaces across the globe, including exhibitions in Beijing, Washington D.C., and most notably a special exhibition in the main atrium of the Oculus in New York City. In 2018, the Central Academy of Fine Arts in Beijing founded the Liu Shiming Sculpture Museum, dedicated to researching and investigating Liu's artworks and their historical significance.Discover the inspiring story behind Liu Shiming's masterpiece, "Dream to Fly," in this captivating documentary, Dream to Fly - Story behind Liu Shiming's MasterpieceFor more information on the work of the foundation, head to their website, Http ://www.lsmartfund.org Media ContactOrganization: Liu Shiming Art FoundationContact Person: Luka LeeWebsite: https://www.lsmartfund.org Email: info@ lsmartfund.org City: New York CityState: New YorkCountry: United StatesSOURCE: Liu Shiming Art Foundation
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BEVERLY HILLS, CA / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Mark Cohen, an accomplished mortgage broker with over 35 years experience, has once again been named the #1 Mortgage Broker in the United States according to the prestigious Scotsman Guide's annual rankings. Additionally, Mark has also earned the distinction of being awarded the #1 Non-QM Mortgage Broker in the nation, solidifying his reputation as one of the top professionals in the industry. This marks the 10th consecutive year that Mark has reached the top 1% of the Scotsman Guide rankings. These notable achievements highlight Mark's unwavering dedication to providing personalized and exceptional service to his clients.The Scotsman Guide rankings are widely considered to be gold standard in the industry, providing the most comprehensive and authoritative ranking of mortgage professionals in the United States. Mark's consistent ranking in the top 1% is a clear indicator of his commitment to excellence and unparalleled work ethic."I am honored to receive this recognition from Scotsman Guide," said Mark Cohen. "This incredible achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of my team, and to the many wonderful clients I've had the privilege of helping." As the Founder and CEO of Cohen Financial Group, Mark leads his team with a mission to provide unmatched customer service and best-in-class loan solutions for home and commercial purchases, refinancing, home equity, and construction loans. While Mark is recognized as a loan dealmaker at the highest end of the Southern California luxury real estate market, he lends his expertise to all homebuyers and property owners. "We work with a diverse client base throughout Los Angeles and Orange County. I look at every customer as an opportunity to build a lifelong relationship - the loan amount is inconsequential," states Mark.In tough economic times, Mark is a hero. He has rescued thousands of panicked home buyers left stranded by struggling lenders who could not perform. His ability to tap into long-standing relationships with banks and investors affords him the capacity to reliably close loans even when the economy is experiencing volatility.During his prestigious career, Mark has originated over 25,500 loans totaling more than 15.75 billion dollars in volume. Mark also has the distinction of being the only mortgage broker in the U.S. to average over 1 billion dollars in loan volume on an annual basis for the past ten years.His success is rooted in a personal drive to put great deals together for his clients, along with an unstoppable work ethic and reputation as a trusted advisor to his clients.As the top-ranked mortgage broker in the United States, Mark Cohen and Cohen Financial Group are well-positioned to continue their impressive streak of success.If you or a client are in the market for a home loan or refinance, please visit cohenfinancialgroup.com Contact InformationMark CohenFounder and CEOmarkcohen@ cohenfinancialgroup.com 310.777.5401SOURCE: Cohen Financial Group
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. The overall development of Azerbaijan's regions has both a social nature and, at the same time, strengthens our country, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev said in an interview with Azerbaijan Television in the Salyan district, Trend reports.

"As a result of the implementation of state programs on the socioeconomic development of the regions, large-scale construction work has been carried out in the regions.

This work continues. The fourth such program is currently under way. My visits to the regions are also a means of exercising control, i.e. how the tasks I have issued are being implemented. At the same time, further tasks and recommendations are provided, so that all the goals we have declared  first of all, improvement of people's well-being, creation of infrastructure facilities, including social infrastructure  are implemented in the regions. In a nutshell, the overall development of Azerbaijan's regions has both a social nature and, at the same time, strengthens our country," President Ilham Aliyev underlined.
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SAN FRANCISCO, CA / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Hagens Berman urges Medical Properties Trust, Inc. (NYSE:MPW) investors who suffered substantial losses submit your losses now.Class Period: July 15, 2019- Feb. 22, 2023Lead Plaintiff Deadline: June 12, 2023Visit: www.hbsslaw.com/investor-fraud/MPW Contact An Attorney Now: MPW@ hbsslaw.com 844-916-0895Medical Properties Trust, Inc. (MPW) Securities Fraud Class Action:According to the complaint, Defendants made false and misleading statements and failed to disclose that Medical Properties: (1) masked the distressed state of its tenants through sale-leaseback arrangements that were essentially round-robin transactions in that they allowed debt-saddled tenants to meet their obligations in the short term; (2) fraudulently transferred hundreds of millions of dollars in what amounted to a bailout of financially distressed tenants; and (3) concealed its fraudulent transfers with fake construction projects with purportedly high capital expenses, despite the fact that the company entered into "triple-net leases" that obligated its tenants to pay a significant portion of expenses.Investors began to learn the truth on Jan. 26, 2023, when Viceroy Research published a scathing report accusing Medical Properties of "engaging in billions of dollars of uncommercial transactions with its tenants and their management teams in order to mask a pervasive revenue round-robin scheme and/or theft." Then, on Feb. 2, 2023, Viceroy sent and published its letter to Medical Properties' auditor highlighting Viceroy's concerns about severely distressed tenants and round-tripped revenues, uncollectible accrued revenues and impaired asset values.Finally, on Feb. 23, 2023, the company announced Q4 and full-year 2022 financial results that included a whopping $171 million impairment charge relating to four properties leased to Prospect and a write-off of $112 million on unbilled Prospect rent.These revelations drove the price of Medical Properties shares sharply lower."We're focused on investors' losses and proving Medical Properties cooked its books," said Reed Kathrein, the Hagens Berman partner leading the investigation.If you invested in Medical Properties and have substantial losses, or have knowledge that may assist the firm's investigation, click here to discuss your legal rights with Hagens Berman.Whistleblowers: Persons with non-public information regarding Medical Properties should consider their options to help in the investigation or take advantage of the SEC Whistleblower program. Under the new program, whistleblowers who provide original information may receive rewards totaling up to 30 percent of any successful recovery made by the SEC. For more information, call Reed Kathrein at 844-916-0895 or email MPW@ hbsslaw.com # # #About Hagens BermanHagens Berman is a global plaintiffs' rights complex litigation law firm focusing on corporate accountability through class-action law. The firm is home to a robust securities litigation practice and represents investors as well as whistleblowers, workers, consumers and others in cases achieving real results for those harmed by corporate negligence and fraud. More about the firm and its successes can be found at hbsslaw.com . Follow the firm for updates and news at @ClassActionLaw.Contact:Reed Kathrein, 844-916-0895SOURCE: Hagens Berman Sobol Shapiro LLP
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Colorado Cannabis Tours is awarded one of the first marijuana hospitality licenses in the country by the city of Denver after 10 years of success and leading the cannabis tourism industry.DENVER, CO / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Colorado Cannabis Tours, operating out of Denver, Colorado, was just awarded a marijuana hospitality license, earning them the right to provide a space for social cannabis consumption within city limits. After close to 10 years in the cannabis space, and aiding lawmakers in creating the Marijuana Hospitality Bill, Cannabis Tours co-owners Michael Eymer, Charles Conti, and Heidi Keyes are proud to be a part of this next step forward in normalizing adult cannabis use.Eymer Ribbon-Cutting Colorado Cannabis ToursMichael Eymer w Denver Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting of new Marijuana Hospitality Licenseses Eymer, Conti and Keyes have been anticipating this day for many years, though they were unsure it would ever be a reality. They thought hosting CNN anchor Randi Kaye LIVE on New Year's Eve from one of their tour buses might be the pinnacle for the brand - but they were wrong. Eymer says, "As a legacy brand, we are enormously proud to have trailblazed cannabis hospitality for entrepreneurs throughout Denver, the state of Colorado, and beyond. We encourage our industry allies to be creative and develop new and interesting activities and services to truly enrich this space and to leave their own unique mark, not unlike the footnote we've added to the pages of history here." Cannabis Tours has leveled up, and they hope their fellow cannabis hospitality businesses do the same.Cannabis Tours hosts:Denver city cannabis cultivation and dispensary tours with cannabis consumption permitted on board the CCT tour buses.Puff , Pass, and Paint classes where participants are able to smoke, vape, etc., in the CCT mobile lounge during an artist-led painting class.Special event mobile consumption lounges.An array of tourism and hospitality activities such as grow tours, 420-friendly hotels, brew tours, cooking with cannabis, concentrate / hash classes, cannabis dinners, mountain tours, and more.For more information: https://coloradocannabistours.com.Cannabis Tours, originally Colorado Cannabis Tours, was formed in 2014 in Denver, Colorado, by longtime friends Michael Eymer and Charles Conti. After joining forces with artist Heidi Keyes in 2015, Colorado Cannabis Tours expanded to several states and became simply Cannabis Tours. After several successful years operating dispensary tours, painting classes, mountain tours, 420-friendly hotels, and infused cooking classes coast to coast, Cannabis Tours was forced to slow down during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. Back in business and stronger than ever, the Cannabis Tours team is the longest-run cannabis tourism company in the state, perhaps even the world. The company has been featured in many major outlets, including the New York Times, HBO, BuzzFeed, CNN, VICE, BBC News, Bravo, and many more.Contact InformationMichael EymerCEOmike@ cannabistours.com 3034208687Charles ContiCTOcharles@ cannabistours.com 3107027066SOURCE: Cannabis Tours
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ProofNoMore - The premier marketplace for non-alcoholic craft beveragesNEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / ProofNoMore, a wholesaler and online retailer of non-alcoholic (NA) craft beverages, is preparing to showcase its B2B distribution portfolio at the 2023 Bar Convent Brooklyn (BCB) event on June 14th-15th at Industry City (BOOTH 8A-610).BCB, an annual trade show and conference for the bar and beverage industry, is an optimum opportunity for ProofNoMore to exhibit its wholesale portfolio to members of the beverage industry, including bartenders, bar owners, beverage directors, beverage manufacturers, distributors, and industry experts.ProofNoMore will present and exhibit their core wholesale range of craft non-alcoholic beers, such as Sober Carpenter from Canada, Woodland Farms from Maine, and Atmos Brewing from Idaho. From their NA-Wine portfolio, attendees will be able to try Buonafide from Italy and the Leitz range of de-alcoholized wines from Germany. Their Zero-Proof spirit portfolio will also be in full display with Feragaia from Scotland and Seir Hill from the Connecticut. Other functional beverages such as Mockly Mocktails from Louisiana, Clever Mocktails from Canada, Goldies Vitamin infused sparkling water, and WOW's non-alcoholic mixers are also available for sampling.The ProofNoMore team aims to enlighten trade professionals about the positive impact of including adult non-alcoholic (NA) options in their offerings. These options are not detrimental to alcohol sales, but rather contribute to a customer's beverage tab by providing higher profit margins compared to soda or water. They cater to those who are moderating or abstaining from alcohol but still desire the social experience of "drinking" with friends or co-workers. Additionally, the growing trend of "flex-drinking" - where individuals consume both alcoholic and NA options during the same occasion as part of the overall healthy and wellness movement - further underscores the business benefits of offering NA options.Lars Dahlhaus, co-founder of ProofNoMore, reveals that as a privately owned and self-funded company, they are actively pursuing an aggressive growth trajectory. Participating in BCB 2023 has the potential to further support their scaling efforts. Dahlhaus states, "Our aim is to achieve nationwide B2B distribution by 2024 through the establishment of multiple regional hubs." He further adds, "As the largest NA beer marketplace in the US, we anticipate tripling our sales by the end of 2023."As co-founder Ed Carino, proudly shares, "We leverage our 30+ years of experience in beverage distribution and brand building to support our supplier partners, helping them thrive with ProofNoMore and beyond. Non-alcoholic craft beverages have become a permanent fixture in the market, as people seek meaningful and delicious drink options without alcohol." ProofNoMore, a New York City-based importer and wholesale distributor, was founded in 2021 with a mission to offer customers a better-for-you drinking experience that goes beyond alcohol. With a leadership team committed to fostering inclusivity in the beverage industry, ProofNoMore aims to create an environment where non-alcoholic drinks can thrive. By participating in BCB 2023, ProofNoMore seeks to appeal to customers of all backgrounds, regardless of their drinking habits, taste preferences, or reasons for reducing alcohol consumption.About ProofNoMore ProofNoMore.com and its sister ecommerce site, CBDrnk.com , are part of Liquid Ecommerce LLC, collectively serving as online marketplaces offering a wide variety of non-alcoholic beverages. These include non-alcoholic beer, NA-wine, zero-proof spirits, mocktails, mixers, and functional drinks like CBD Seltzers and Sparkling Kava. With products available for both retail and wholesale, the company promotes its brands with a focus on fostering mindful drinking as a part of a healthy lifestyle.For more information, please visit https://www.proofnomore.com and https://www.cbdrnk.com For information on Bar Convent Brooklyn, visit: www.barconventbrooklyn.com Contact:Ed Carinoed@ proofnomore.com (347) 292-1471SOURCE: ProofNoMore
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Dr. Santiago Munne, a pioneer in preimplantation genetic diagnosis, presented the new test at the PGDIS ConferenceThe novel laboratory test will not only detect genes inherited from parents, but will also reveal new mutations that could lead to de novo' diseases such as autismPARIS, FRANCE / ACCESSWIRE / April 17, 2023 / Dr. Santiago Munne, a pioneer in preimplantation genetic diagnosis, presented the first whole genome sequencing test in embryos before delegates at the 20th Conference of the Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis International Society (PGDIS), held this week in Paris.In his plenary address attended by over 300 experts, Dr. Munne, an internationally recognized trailblazer in reproductive genetics, presented validation data for GenomeScreen, the test developed by the research team he leads at the biotechnology firm GenEmbryomics."We have known since we started working with embryo diagnostics back in 1993 that embryo selection would be key to pregnancy, especially in older patients. Over the last 30 years, our work has been focused on improving genetic embryo selection, though the definitive diagnostic approach-the one that provides the most information and the best outcomes-will doubtless be this one: whole genome sequencing of the embryo using just a few cells obtained from a biopsy. This test will open doors that we never knew existed," says Munne of the work done at GenEmbryomics.To understand the genome is to know everything about an embryo before transferGenomeScreen is a revolutionary new whole genome sequencing test for IVF embryos that has been described as "the most complete genetic test in IVF" by authorities at the PGDIS forum.The test provides highly precise information on the genome sequence of the embryo and the genetic parents, offering families key preimplantation insights on embryo health and reproductive prognosis that can inform their decisions. Furthermore, this information will be invaluable to individuals born from IVF, as it will provide input on nutrigenomics or guidance on which medicines are most genetically suited to the patient."When we first started our research on embryo sequencing, our goal was to create a powerful, comprehensive tool that could equip fertility physicians with exhaustive data for precision screening," recalls Dr. Nick Murphy, founder of GenEmbryomics. "Now that we have this tool and use it with 99% reliability, we are aware that this diagnosis not only provides information, but also substantially enhances the success of reproductive medicine," adds Murphy.Embryo sequencing will increase IVF success ratesProfessor Munne, whose career as a leader in reproductive genetics spans over 20 years, has made enormous contributions to embryo selection and IVF treatment. With this test, he and his team of researchers solidify the role of genetic testing within reproductive medicine, increasing treatment success."The findings presented at the conference are the validation data for a test that will change embryo selection as we know it," according to Munne. "Preimplantation genetic analysis with whole genome sequencing is a giant step forward: among other things, it will tell us which embryo will implant successfully, because we will know beforehand which one is truly healthy-the one that is free of diseases inherited from the parents or de novo illnesses, such as autism," he concludes.About GenEmbryomicsFounded by Dr. Nick Murphy in 2019, GenEmbryomics is a cutting-edge biotech company specializing in the genomic analysis of embryos to determine the most viable candidates for IVF implantation. Their work will lead to higher success rates in IVF cycles, thanks to their proprietary algorithms offering more accurate and efficient embryo selection based on each embryo's whole genome.For more informationDulce Iborra Candela+34 647942875dulce@ laembajadora.es SOURCE: GenEmbryomics
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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / The Power Play by The Market Herald has announced the release of new interviews with Reunion Gold Corp, Numinus Wellness, Core Assets, Blockmate Ventures, BioVaxys Tech, Carlyle Commodities and Belmont Resources 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.Reunion Gold Releases Additional Drill Results From Its Oko West Project in Guyana Including Hole D-243 Which Intersected 109.7 Metres of 5.59 g/t Au and Works Toward a Mid Year Maiden Resource EstimateThese results continue to confirm the grade and continuity of the Kairuni zone and expand the mineralized envelope, which remains open at depth below blocks 1, 4, 5, 6 and 7 - the Company continues to explore further zones along strike. Holes D-213, D-234, and D-243 continue to confirm the presence of higher-grade mineralized "shoots" within Block 4, which have been identified from previous drill results. These higher-grade shoots remain open at depth, below the extent of drilling completed to date.For the full interview with Rick Howes and to learn about Reunion Gold Corp, click here.Numinus Launches new Clinic Licensing Platform, the Numinus Network, to Accelerate ExpansionLicensing model enables Numinus to scale with limited capital investment and overhead. Provides practitioners with an alternate model, allowing them to retain ownership of their practice and performance while leveraging Numinus patient protocols. New partnership with Healing Commercial Real Estate Inc. provides Numinus Network licensees with turn-key locations.For the full interview with Payton Nyquvest and to learn about Numinus, click here.Core Assets Samples 19.5g/t Au at the Falcon TargetCore Assets Corp., is pleased to announce surficial assay results from the Falcon Target - a historic vein-hosted gold-silver occurrence located 950m north-northeast of the Jackie CRD Target at the Silver Lime CRD-Porphyry Project, north-central Blue Property; Atlin Mining District of NW British Columbia.For the full interview with Nicholas Rodway and to learn about Core Assets, click here.Blockmate Launches Web3 Passive Income Generator App for Global AudienceBlockmate Ventures Inc, is pleased to announce that its 100% owned subsidiary Hivello has beta launched an innovative application that enables an addressable market of more than 100 million internet users to earn up to US$20 per month in passive income, simply by contributing their idle computing resources.For the full interview with Justin Rosenberg and to learn about Blockmate Venutes, click here.Biovaxys Retains Maxim Group as Financial Advisor and Investment BankerBioVaxys Technology Corp. is pleased to announce that it has retained New York City-based Maxim Group LLC as its financial advisor and investment banker to provide general financial advisory and investment banking services, including strategic planning, assessment of potential strategic alliances and capital requirements, and advising the Company with respect to the process of obtaining a listing on a US national stock exchange.For the full interview with James Passin and to learn about BioVaxys Technology Corp, click here.Carlyle Intercepts 613.9 Meters of 0.55 g/t AuEq at Newton Project, BC, Including 18 Meters of 1.67 g/t AuEq and 33 Meters of 1.45 g/t AuEqCarlyle Commodities Corp. is pleased to announce that is has received assays from its third and final drill hole from its Phase 1 drill program at its 100% owned Newton Gold-Silver Project near Williams Lake, British Columbia. The Newton Project is a low sulphide epithermal system. The system remains open in multiple directions, particularly to the west, northwest, north and at depth, within a highly prospective (24,000 hectare) land package that is workable all year-round.For the full interview with Morgan Good and to learn about Carlyle Commodities Corp., 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 HeraldThe 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 comp
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ATLANTA, GA / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Truelio, a leading brand experience, digital marketing and technology transformation agency, announced today it has been recognized as a Great Place To Work-Certified company. As a global authority on workplace culture, employee experience and effective leadership, Great Place To Work provides independent company assessments based entirely on feedback from employees about their workplace experience. Its Great Place To Work Trust Index Survey revealed that 97 percent of employees consider Truelio a great place to work, compared to just 57 percent at the typical U.S.-based company.Truelio Certified as a Great Place to Work "We couldn't be prouder about this recognition and how it demonstrates our commitment to creating a workplace that is professionally rewarding while providing a work-life balance that fits the unique needs of our employees," said John Kauffman, Truelio's CEO and president. "We have a simple formula for success. Great cultures attract and retain talented and creative people, empowering us to deliver incredible results to our partners. This people-first mentality is at the core of what makes Truelio a great and rewarding place to work. Our goal is to make a difference in the lives of our employees and partners-to listen and learn to build the very best culture possible. This certification is validation we're heading in the right direction." "As a brand experience company, we understand that behind every authentically great brand is a great culture with amazing people," said Brian Fallers, Truelio's Chief Brand Officer. "This recognition is a tribute to our amazing team and the culture that fuels our success and that of our partners. Our culture is special to us, and we're continually looking for new ways to make it even more employee-centric." The Great Place To Work recognition is based on an anonymous 60-factor survey that collects employee responses and comments to paint a thorough picture of the day-to-day work environment. "Great Place To Work Certification isn't something that comes easily-it takes ongoing dedication to the employee experience," said Sarah Lewis-Kulin, vice president of global recognition at Great Place To Work. "It's the only official recognition determined by employees' real-time reports on their company culture. Earning this designation means that Truelio is one of the best companies to work for in the country." According to Great Place To Work research, job seekers are 4.5 times more likely to find a great boss at a Certified great workplace. Additionally, employees at Certified workplaces are 93 percent more likely to look forward to coming to work, and are twice as likely to be paid fairly, earn a fair share of the company's profits and have a fair chance at promotion.Visit www.truelio.com to learn more about the company's unique culture, experience, capabilities and broad suite of brand experience, digital marketing and technology solutions.About TruelioTruelio is a premier full-service brand experience, digital marketing and technology transformation agency. Based in Atlanta, GA, with a growing footprint across the U.S., we are a collective group of creative strategists, brand specialists and digital experts. For over two decades, our partnership-based culture has helped many of the world's leading brands deliver extraordinary experiences that inspire growth and make a difference in the lives of their employees and customers. Visit www.truelio.com to learn more about our experience, expertise and broad suite of marketing and technology solutions.About Great Place To Work CertificationGreat Place To Work Certification is the most definitive "employer-of-choice" recognition that companies aspire to achieve. It is the only recognition based entirely on what employees report about their workplace experience-specifically, how consistently they experience a high-trust workplace. Great Place To Work Certification is recognized worldwide by employees and employers alike and is the global benchmark for identifying and recognizing outstanding employee experience. Every year, more than 10,000 companies across 60 countries apply to get Great Place To Work-Certified.About Great Place To WorkGreat Place To Work is the global authority on workplace culture. Since 1992, they have surveyed more than 100 million employees worldwide and used those deep insights to define what makes a great workplace: trust. Their employee survey platform empowers leaders with the feedback, real-time reporting and insights they need to make data-driven people decisions. Everything they do is driven by the mission to build a better world by helping every organization become a great place to work For All. Learn more at greatplacetowork.com and on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.Contact InformationRandy DawsonChief Marketing Officer770-407-6300SOURCE: Truelio
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Buhler, a Swiss multinational plant equipment manufacturer, announced Tuesday it is partnering with the Nigerian government in a project to boost rice production across the country.

In a statement on Tuesday, the company said the project initiated in 2017 with the agreement for the acquisition of a rice mill at Imota, involves the government at both state and federal levels, in recognition of the importance of improving the independence and security of its food supply.

The company explained that the rice sector plays a significant role in Nigerias food security initiatives and the current drive to invest in rice mills across Nigeria, spearheaded by the government, is supported by solutions from Buhler Nigeria.

The global Swiss family business has had a presence in Nigeria for more than 50 years and has established itself as the key technology provider in the Nigerian governments efforts to enhance rice production and processing to meet international standards, it said.

According to the statement, in December 2013, the federal government inaugurated the National Rice Development Strategy-II (2020-2030) and the Competitive African Rice Initiative to ensure surplus rice production for export, food security and job creation.

It added that NRDS-II is a 10-year plan for the development of the rice sector to achieve the governments goals of self-sufficiency in rice production, food and nutrition security, employment creation and production of surplus for export.

It further explained that the Nigerian governments aim to boost food production sustainably and efficiently is supported by Buhler, one of the worlds leading manufacturers of processing machinery and plants.

We are the ideal partner to assist the government with its food security initiatives by introducing the latest trends and technology to Nigeria in order to increase productivity and efficiency in the food sector, Manuel Murrenhoff, managing director of Buhler Nigeria, was quoted as saying in the statement.

Iyore Amadasun, sales and channel business manager Buhler Nigeria, was also quoted as saying that the partnership with Buhler is illustrated by the fully automated Imota rice mill, inaugurated by Muhammadu Buhari, president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, in January of this year, said to be the largest rice production facility in sub-Saharan Africa, and with an annual production of about 2.5 million 50 kg bags, it is set to revolutionise the rice industry in the country.

At full production capacity, it will reduce the price of rice, increase local capacity and ultimately improve Nigerias trade balance.

The statement added that Nigerias population, the sixth largest in the world, is set to surpass that of the US and be one of the top three countries by 2050.

This, it said, means the current population of 216 million is expected to reach 401 million by 2050 and peak at 732 million by 2100.

Feeding this growing population sustainably and efficiently presents a challenge for the Nigerian government and Buhler is committed to supporting the nations goal of achieving food independence through the provision of reliable food processing technology, it said.

It noted that in August 2022, Buhler Nigeria hosted its first customer experience day with the theme of Thriving through Collaboration. Manuel Murrenhoffs keynote address on the topic Africa on the Rise Feeding the Continent of Possibilities identified Buhler Nigerias support for the country in its quest for food security, including the construction of a grain processing innovation centre in Kano.

ALSO READ: How Nigeria has fared in rice production since 1999

By supporting food producers in Nigeria with technical solutions and a full spectrum of services, we are helping Nigeria to gain food independence and improve food security, Mr Murrenhoff said.

Through investment in new technology, partnerships, innovation and education, Buhler Nigeria can create a more sustainable future for all. The strong resonance and positive feedback received is a clear sign that industry and government have accepted full responsibility, the statement said.

Buhler said it is driven by the vision of creating innovations for a better world, balancing the needs of the economy, humanity, and nature.

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The war in Ukraine and the related intensified competition between the United States (US) and China loom over every international relations discussion. How might the war end, and how will these scenarios affect Africa?

Projections for the next 20 years by African Futures and Innovation at the Institute for Security Studies show that Africas economic growth is unlikely to deliver commensurate standard-of-living improvements. The prospects become even worse when the impact of the Ukraine conflict is considered.

Although Africa represents only 3 per cent of the global economy, its large and poor population (17 per cent of the worlds total) means the continent is deeply affected by the war that has already impacted food and fertiliser supplies and prices.

As fighting continues, resources will be diverted from Africa, including aid, investment and humanitarian relief. Already the International Monetary Fund and World Bank regularly revise their growth and poverty alleviation estimations downwards, referring to the potential of a lost decade.

Instead of heading towards a sustainable world in which Africa could flourish, lower global growth will hinder income advances and poverty reduction. Africa must grow rapidly to close the increasing gap in average incomes relative to the rest of the world. Chart 1 includes the history and a forecast of gross domestic product (GDP) per capita for Africa compared to the average for the rest of the world by 2043.

From 1963 to 2022, Africas economy rose at an average rate of 3.5 per cent. Because it has a young and rapidly expanding population, the 3.5 per cent translated into less than 1 per cent average improvement in GDP per capita. Meanwhile, average economic growth rates in the rest of the world were slightly lower, at 3.3 per cent, but lower population increases translated into more than double the GDP per capita growth rate.

The ISS Current Path forecast is that Africas economy will expand by a healthy 4.5 per cent from 2024 to 2043 compared to a 2.3 per cent average for the rest of the world. But because of rapid population expansions, 4.5 per cent will translate into GDP per capita growth of only about 1.5 per cent annually in Africa and marginally less in the rest of the world. The main reason is that while the continents population will expand by 2.2 per cent annually, population growth will be below 0.5 per cent in the rest of the world. The result is no catch-up.

Once we factor in the impact of the Ukraine war, the forecasts become more pessimistic.

Modelling up to 11 sectoral scenarios for each African country enables a projection of Africas development potential in four global scenarios. In an ideal Sustainable World, pursuing Sustainable Development Goals sees Africas economy growing at 7.5 per cent by 2043. This is admittedly an almost impossible target, considering that no nation, not even China, has achieved the annual rates this would require. The Ukraine conflict makes reaching a Sustainable World even more doubtful.

No one knows how the fighting will end, but scenarios help explore the implications of various alternatives. Three other global scenarios capture all reasonable long-term outcomes.

In a Growth World, countries focus on rapid improvements in income and returns on investment, eschewing environmental concerns. A Divided World, perhaps closest to the current trajectory, is characterised by global fracturing, populism, nationalism and a retreat from globalisation. In a World at War, competition between the West and China dominates the world economy, politics and relations  with violent outcomes. Africa suffers most in this scenario, shut out of any prospects for rapid development.

An African scenario complements each of these global scenarios, premised on the extent of regional economic integration and Africas relations with countries and regions such as China, the European Union (EU) and the US.

Chart 2 presents four ways the Ukraine conflict could end, associated with the four global scenarios above. In the Sustainable World, it culminates in a negotiated agreement brokered by China and others. Ukraines territory is restored to its pre-2014 borders, and it joins the EU but not the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). This is the best scenario for Africa and would cause the least disruption to its growth potential and development needs.

In the Divided World, a Republican US president ends military support for Ukraine. Europe partly fills the gap, but Ukraines war effort is weakened, resulting in a punishing stalemate. Germany leads in forcing Ukraine to negotiate. Ukraine cedes Crimea to Russia, but as a guarantee for its security, joins NATO and the EU.

The World at War comprises a series of overlapping violent conflicts. The Ukraine conflict morphs into one between NATO and Russia. With Chinas support, Russia averts military and institutional collapse. While NATO is focused on Russia, China occupies Taiwan. India eventually confronts an assertive China as the two Asian giants collide. Suffering significant military losses in Europe and during efforts to defend Taiwan, the US turns inward and leaves NATO. Its great power stature is severely eroded.

In the Growth World, the fighting ends through Chinese/UN mediation. Ukraine loses Crimea and must accept neutrality, joining neither the EU nor NATO. The world moves on as growth in the global south accelerates. Russia becomes an economic vassal of China, increasingly concerned about the threat of encroachment in the East. International focus is on economic growth until the impact of climate change forces humanity to confront an even larger foe.

Our modelling suggests that even in the Sustainable World scenario, Africa would still have 127 million people living in extreme poverty by 2043. The World at War scenario is much bleaker, with almost 200 million Africans facing extreme poverty in 2043.

Africa has come a long way but will struggle to fully realise its potential. Since the 1960s independence, African countries have gained less than other regions from globalisation and the associated expansion of trade, knowledge and financial flows. Eventually, the commodities boom, not the economic growth objectives in the Lagos Plan of Action (1980) or the Abuja Treaty (1991), changed Africas prospects.

From 1994 until 2008 (when the financial crisis hit), the continent experienced its most sustained growth. The average growth rate was 4.6 per cent annually, and per capita income increased by 35 per cent. However, high levels of inequality and rapid population growth meant the share of Africans living in extreme poverty decreased by only about five percentage points.

Africa needs global stability. It needs a rapprochement between the West and China, and it must take control over its growth agenda. The continent will suffer if current efforts to instrumentalise Africans in this divided world continue.

Africa needs debt relief, Chinese trade and investment, expanded relations with the EU, capital from the US and more trade with the rest of the global south. It needs an agricultural revolution to ensure food security and accelerate trade integration to provide a larger, more attractive domestic and foreign capital market. Fully implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area agreement can unlock more rapid growth than any other scenario.

Meanwhile, as the elephants fight, the grass suffers.

Jakkie Cilliers, Head, African Futures and Innovation, ISS Pretoria

(This article was first published by ISS Today, a Premium Times syndication partner. We have their permission to republish).

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At least 180 people have died and 1,800 injured in the ongoing fighting in Sudan between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), the UN said.

UN Special Representative in Sudan, Volker Perthes, said the situation in Sudan is very fluid so its very difficult to say where the balance is shifting to.

The fight, which erupted on Saturday, has continued and is in its fourth day despite calls for temporary cease fire from different world leaders including the UN.

Speaking to reporters in New York, Mr Perthes said the two sides who are fighting are not giving the impression that they want mediation for a peace between them right away.

The ongoing fights have led to the destruction of buildings and facilities in the already torn country including members of the diplomatic community.

EUs Foreign Policy Chief, Josep Borell, in a tweet announced that the EU Ambassador in Sudan was assaulted in his own residency.

This constitutes a gross violation of the Vienna Convention. Security of diplomatic premises and staff is a primary responsibility of Sudanese authorities and an obligation under international law, he said.

Similarly, a convoy of clearly marked US diplomatic vehicles were attacked with a preliminary report linking the assailants to the RSF. Passengers aboard the vehicle are safe, Antony Blinken, US secretary of state said.

What African leaders are saying

The African Union Peace and Security Council (AU-PSC) during an emergency meeting on Sunday feared that the situation in Sudan has reached a dangerous level and could escalate into a full-blown conflict, thereby undermining the progress made towards a peaceful transition to democracy and stability in Sudan.

It condemned the fighting and called for a ceasefire as it urged countries of the region and other concerned parties to support ongoing efforts to return the country to the transition process towards a constitutional order.

In a similar meeting, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) called on the two parties to immediately par and unconditionally cease hostilities; de-escalate tensions; and allow unfettered humanitarian access and ensure Sudanese citizens observe the holy month of Ramadan in peace.

The group agreed to send a high-level delegation led by Salva Kiir Mayardit; President of the Republic of South Sudan; and composed of William Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya; and Ismail Guelleh, President of the Republic of Djibouti; to Khartoum at the earliest time possible to engage the two leaders to resume negotiations on all outstanding issues including security and military reform, and report back to the Assembly.

They would also convene an Ordinary Session of the IGAD Assembly of Heads of State and Government in the shortest time possible either in-person or virtually to deliberate on IGAD institutional matters and other issues of concern in the region.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. The work done in Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur shows again that we, the owners of these territories, have returned to our ancestral lands, President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev in an interview with Azerbaijan Television in Salyan district, Trend reports.

"The restoration of Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur is our top priority, and most of my visits to the regions are to those specific regions," President Ilham Aliyev said.

Emphasizing that the large-scale restoration and reconstruction work in Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur is going according to plan, the head of state said: "The work done in Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur shows again that we, the owners of these territories, have returned to our ancestral lands. Over 30 years, Armenia devastated these lands, did not leave a single stone unturned, was engaged in looting and robbery, and was engaged in barbarism. We, the owners of these lands, have come to build and create. Therefore, as soon as the war ended, work was started immediately."

"Currently, former IDPs live in two settlements  in the villages of Aghali and Talish. We see the future face of Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur as a whole in the example of these villages  prosperous cities, prosperous villages, infrastructure created on the basis of smart management principles. So all this is obvious. Let me say again that these two projects show the entire population of Azerbaijan and the whole world what the future face of Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur will be like," President Ilham Aliyev noted.
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A 45-year-old woman, Karima Nuhu, on Tuesday sued her husband, Musa Falalu, at a Sharia Court sitting in Rigasa, Kaduna, for allegedly failing to take her to Saudi Arabia.

The complainant who resides in Rigasa area of Kaduna told the court that she had been married to Falalu for four years during which he provided her with food for only two months.

She also told the court that her ex husband dupped her of all her savings after which he divorced her.

He told me that he lost his job as a driver but had secured another one in Saudi Arabia, urging me to be patient while promising to take me along.

So far, I have been feeding myself. I even borrowed money including my savings for him so that he would be able to pay for the trip, but after getting what he wanted, he divorced me, she said.

When asked if she had any winess to present in court, she simply said she doesnt. I have none except God who will judge us on the last day.

The defendant, however, denied the allegations saying they were untrue.

He told the court that he had divorced the complainant.

The Judge, Anass Khalifa, who confirmed the divorce between the couple, said the court would only listen to the complainants claims if she had witnesses.

He subsequently closed the case.

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The Independent National Electoral Commissioner (INEC) has declared Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) winner of the governorship election in Adamawa State.

Mr Fintiri won the supplementary election with 9,337 votes. He defeated his closest rival, Aisha Dahiru, popularly called Binani, of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who came second in the poll with 6,513 votes.

Mr Fintiri and Mrs Dahiru are the major contenders in the governorship poll.

The supplementary poll was held in 69 polling units in the 20 local governments in the state, with less than 40,000 eligible voters.

At the 18 March governorship poll before it was declared inconclusive, Mr Fintiri was leading with over 30,000 votes.

For both the main election and the rerun, the governor polled a total of 430,861 votes while the APC candidate scored 398,788 votes.

The final results were announced by the INEC Returning Officer in the state, Mohammed Mele.

Mr Mele, a professor, said the PDP governorship candidate has met the constitutional requirement and thereby returned as governor of the state.

I, Professor Muhammed Mele, hereby certified that I am the Returning Officer for the Adamawa State Governorship election. The election was contested. That the candidates received the following votes, he said.

That Ahmadu Fintiri of the PDP having satisfied the requirements of the law is hereby declared the winner and is returned elected.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner, Hudu Ari, had, on Sunday, declared Mrs Dahiru the winner of the governorship election.

Mr Ari announced the APC candidate winner of the election while the collation of the results of the supplementary election conducted on Saturday was still in progress.

However, INEC headquarters in Abuja declared the RECs action null and void and suspended the collation of the results.

The commission also summoned him to Abuja and subsequently barred him from the office. It is not certain if he has arrived Abuja.

Also on Monday, Mrs Dahiru approached the Federal High Court in Abuja seeking to stop INEC from voiding her illegal declaration as Adamawa governor-elect. The court adjourned to 26 April, the day the collation of the results of the supplementary election resumed and Mr Fintiri declared winner.

Meanwhile, the electoral body said it had decided to write the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Usman Baba, requesting to probe and prosecute Mr Ari for his conduct.

Mr Baba, on his part, has ordered the removal of the Commissioner of Police on election duty in Adamawa State, Mohammed Barde, over his alleged role in the illegal declaration of Mrs Dahiru, as the winner of the state governorship election on Sunday.

The IGP also directed the Gombe State Police Commissioner, Etim Equa, to proceed to Adamawa to take charge.

See the results of the supplementary election below

Total registered voters 42,929

Accredited voters 16,423

AA 2

AAC 28

ADP 40

APC 6,513

APGA 16

APM 03

APP 02

LP 03

NNPP 05

NRM 35

PDP 9,337

PRP 03

SDP 05

YPP 06

ZLP 01

Total 15,999

Rejected votes 399

Total votes cast 16,398

Total Election Results

Total registered voters 21965666

Accredited voters 876,387

Total results of the 18 March election and 15 April supplementary elections

AA 643

ADC 324

ADP 2,174

APC 398,788

APGA 892

APM 606

APP 286

LP 2,732

NNPP 4,852

NRM 1,272

PDP 430,861

PRP 1,188

SDP 6,870

YPP 1,431

ZLP 200

Total valid votes 853,819

Rejected votes 15,287

Total votes cast 869,106

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The Federal High Court, Abuja has declared the sacking of Ifeanyi Ararume as Non-Executive Chairman of the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) as illegal and unlawful.

Delivering judgment in the matter on Tuesday, the judge, Inyang Ekwo, said that his removal was unconstitutional and as such, the court restored him as the Non- Executive Chairman of the national oil company with full benefits.

The judge also set aside every decision taken by the board that was appointed after Mr Ararumes removal.

Mr Ekwo awarded N5 billion as damages in favour of Mr Ararume.

The News Agency of Nigeria, (NAN) reports that Mr Ararume sued the Federal Government, praying the court to declare his sack as NNPC board chairman illegal, unlawful and unconstitutional.

He contended that his removal by vide letter Jan. 17, 2022 with reference number SGF. 3V111/86 was a violation of the CAMA law under which NNPCL was incorporated.

Apart from asking the court to issue an order to return him to office, Ararume also demanded for N100 billion as compensation for the damages he suffered following the unlawful removal.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that Mr Ararume, who was appointed to the position in September 2021, was removed shortly before the inauguration of the board of the company in January 2022.

Background

Mr Buhari appointed Mr Ararume as the non-executive chairman of the NNPC Limited for a five-year term in September 2021.

The appointment, by virtue of the letter dated 20 October 2021, issued to him by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, took effect from 21 September 2021, the date NNPC Limited was incorporated as a private company limited by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).

The incorporation of the national oil company was necessitated by the coming into force of the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021, which led to the unbundling of the agency which had operated for decades as a public corporation.

The new board was initially scheduled to be inaugurated by President Buhari on 24 November 2021, but was suspended indefinitely without any reason offered on the eve of the scheduled event.

The presidency, on 5 January, made a fresh announcement of the appointment to the NNPC Limiteds board which revealed that Mr Ararumes name had been replaced. Other appointees names remained on the list as earlier announced in September 2021. No reason was given for the replacement of Mr Ararumes name.

Surprise

Mr Ararume said in his suit that the inauguration of the board on 7 January with another person named as the non-executive chairman of the company came to him as a surprise.

He said he only received a letter dated 17 January informing him of the withdrawal of his appointment 10 days after the inauguration of the board.

That no reasons whatsoever were adduced by the 1st defendant in the said letter 17th day of January 2022, warranting my purported removal or withdrawal of my appointment as the non-executive chairman of the 2nd defendant, he wrote in his affidavit filed in support of his suit.

Why my sacking is wrong

He said he had assumed duty as the non-executive chairman of the company on 12 November 2021, and, in that capacity, subsequently attended the 23rd World Petroleum Congress at Houston, Texas in the United States.

Having been appointed, Mr Ararume said, inauguration was merely a ceremonial event with no legal effect on his status and that of the other directors.

He said Mr Buhari lacked the power to remove him at will as his office was governed by the Companies and Allied Matters, 2020, the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021, and the companys Memorandum and Articles of Association.

He said he was never found guilty of any of the pre-conditions for the removal of a non-executive chairman/director of the 2nd defendant as prescribed in the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021 and/or the Articles of Association of the 2nd defendant or the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2020.

He added that he never resigned from office and was not dead.

That I have never been adjudged or declared bankrupt or insolvent nor have I at any time whatsoever made any such arrangement or assignment, with my creditors, which has not been rescinded or set aside;

That no medical practitioner has given any medical opinion to any of the defendants that I am medically or physically incapable of discharging the functions of my office as a result of any infirmity of body or mind as the non-executive chairman of the 2nd defendant;

That I have never demonstrated an inability to perform or to continue to perform the functions of my office as the non-executive chairman of the 2nd defendant, the plaintiff wrote.

He, therefore, urged the court to declare that Mr Buhari lacked the power to remove him from office for any reason(s) whatsoever outside the conditions specifically listed in the said Section 63(3) of the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021.

The former governorship candidate in Imo State filed the suit at the Federal High Court in Abuja, on 12 September, to challenge his removal about eight months earlier.

He argued that his sacking was wrongful, and amounted to disruption and interruption of the term of his office.

He said it violated various provisions of the Companies and Allied Matters (CAMA), 2020, the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), 2021, and the companys Memorandum and Articles of Association.

(NAN)

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An aspirant for the 10th Assembly House of Representatives Speakership, Muktar Betara (APC, Borno), on Monday held a meeting with some members-elect in Saudi Arabia.

Mr Betara, who is in Mecca for the lesser hajj, met with some members-elect from Adamawa, Katsina, Kaduna, Gombe, Jigawa and Bauchi States.

The lawmaker represents Biu/Kwaya Kusar/Bayo/Shani Federal Constituency of Borno State and currently serves as the Chairman House Committee on Appropriations.

Mr Betara is one of the 10 aspirants jostling for the position ahead of the 13 June inauguration of the National Assembly.

The other aspirants include: Deputy Speaker Idris Wase (APC, Plateau), Yusuf Gagdi (APC, Plateau), Muktar Betara (APC, Borno), Sada Soli (APC, Katsina), Tunji Olawuyi (APC, Kwara) and Abubakar Makki (APC, Jigawa).

Tajudeen Abbas (APC, Kaduna), Aminu Jaji (APC, Zamfara), Ben Kalu (APC, Abia), and Miriam Onuoha (APC, Imo) are also in the race.

READ ALSO: APC wins Kaduna Assembly seat

Although the ruling party is still mum on the zoning of the presiding offices, different aspirants have been interacting with members-elect.

PREMIUM TIMES had exclusively reported that the Progressives Governors Forum (PGF) sent a memo to President-elect, Bola Tinubu to take quick action in zoning the offices.

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Some Afenifere youth on Tuesday during a protest in Akure called for the removal of Ayo Adebanjo as acting leader of the pan Yoruba socio-political organisation.

Protesting under the umbrella of Yoruba Afenifere Youth Organisation of Nigeria (YAYON), the youth marched to the Akure residence of the aged leader of the group, Reuben Fasoranti, calling on him to intervene in the Afenifere crisis.

The protesters carried placards with various inscriptions such as Pa Fasonranti, please rescue Afenifere, Ayo Adebanjo must go, Revoke the mandate you gave to Adebanjo, Adebanjo, time to step aside, amongst others.

Eric Oluwole, who led the protest, said an ultimatum would soon be issued to Mr Adebanjo to step down.

He said, besides the stepping down of Mr Adebanjo, Afeniferes meeting ought to be held in Akure since Mr Fasonranti is still alive.

Mr Oluwole said the youth want sanity restored to the body.

We want to create this strong awareness to the Yoruba Nation that the vote of no confidence on Pa Adebanjo still stands. We cannot allow one leader to jeopardise out future, Mr Oluwole said.

We called on Adebanjo to step down. Baba only wrote him a letter to step in as Afenifere Acting Leader. He should step down. We are part of Afenifere.

We need sanity within Afenifere. He mentioned that Fasoranti cannot talk to him but we believe that we the youths can talk to him.

Afenifere is passing through internal crisis. Adebanjo sanctioned two National Officers because they made statements in the papers.

Adebanjo is using political inner mind to cause crisis. He cannot suspend National Officers without reference to Baba.

Another protester, Bukola Veronica, said they no longer recognise Mr Adebanjo as acting leader of Afenifere.

Addressing the protesters, Mr Fasoranti assured them that he would look into their demands.

The Afenifere leader, who spoke through his chief security officer, Sunday Ogunkalu, appealed to the protesters to conduct themselves peacefully.

The crisis in the group became pronounced following political differences and preferences that attended the 2023 presidential election.

Mr Adebanjo advocates a power shift to the South-east and supported Peter Obi of the Labour Party for the election.

His position did not resonate with the generality of the Afenifere pro-Yoruba elements within the fold.

The suspension of two officials of the group by Mr Adebanjo for congratulating President-elect Bola Tinubu on his victory in the election was reversed by Mr Fasoranti.

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The police in Enugu State, South-east Nigeria, said they have busted a child stealing and trafficking syndicate in the state.

The police spokesperson in the state, Daniel Ndukwe, who disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday, said two members of the syndicate had been arrested by the police.

Mr Ndukwe, a deputy superintendent of police, gave the names of the suspects as Miracle Orji, 24 and Blessing Ani, 34.

How they were arrested

The police spokesperson said a preliminary investigation by the police revealed that one of the suspects, Ms Orji, had stolen a child on 24 March, and was arrested while trying to escape with the child.

The child has since been rescued, he said.

He said the suspect was arrested in Ameke-Oduma Community in Aninri Local Government Area with the assistance of the residents of the area.

Her confessional statement led to the arrest of Blessing Ani around Shoprite Mall Enugu, where she was waiting to receive and further traffic the child, Mr Ndukwe said.

The arrest of the two suspects led to the rescue of another child  a one-year-old male child.

The police spokesperson said Ms Ani confessed that she has been involved in child trafficking since 2017 and that she had led police operatives to Abuja where one of their victims was rescued.

The police said the victim rescued in Abuja had been sold with fake documents and given a new name.

ALSO READ: Nigerian police rescue 10 pregnant victims of human trafficking

Meanwhile, frantic investigative efforts are on course to arrest other members of the syndicate, while the suspects will be arraigned in court once the investigation into the case is concluded, Mr Ndukwe stated.

Prohibited in Nigeria

Nigeria in 2015 enacted the Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Enforcement and Administration Act, which outlawed all forms of trafficking, including child trafficking.

Child trafficking offenders, on conviction, face a minimum of 5 years imprisonment and a fine of N500,000 or above, depending on the purpose of the trafficking, among others.

Several persons have been convicted of child trafficking across the country.

A Federal High Court in Port-Harcourt, Rivers State, in 2019, sentenced three persons to seven- and five years imprisonment for child trafficking.

The Kano State High Court, in 2021, sentenced a man, Paul Owne to 91 years in prison after convicting him of masterminding the kidnap of children in Kano for sale in Onitsha, Anambra State.

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The governorship candidate of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in the 2023 governorship election in Adamawa State, Aishatu Dahiru, popularly called Binani, has asked the Federal High Court in Abuja to stop the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from voiding an illegal declaration that named her as the governor-elect of the state.

The Leadership newspaper reports that Binani asked the court for an order prohibiting the election umpire from taking any further steps towards the declaration of the winner of the election pending the determination of her application for judicial review.

The APC candidate was illegally declared the governor-elect of the state by the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) following last Sundays supplementary election in the state.

Mrs Dahiru was hoping to upstage the incumbent governor, Ahmadu Fintiri of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who scored more votes during the main election on 18 March.

According to Nigerias electoral law, the REC, Hudu Ari, has no power to announce the winner of the election. That responsibility solely lies with the state collation officer appointed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

READ ALSO:

PREMIUM TIMES gathered that results from the remaining local government had not been received by the INEC when the REC announced Mrs Dahiru as the winner. INEC subsequently released a statement voiding the announcement by its REC of the state stating that it was a usurpation of the power of the returning officer.

According to the court papers obtained by the newspaper, she argued that the after the collation of results, INEC declared her the winner of the election but the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Ahmadu Fintiri, the incumbent governor who is seeking a second term in office, violently disturbed public peace and attacked an INEC National Commissioner.

She claimed the crisis that ensued forced INEC to void the original declaration naming her the governor-elect of the state. She added that INEC did not have the power to void a declaration made as only the election petition tribunal has the power to void such a declaration.

She further argued that INEC usurped the powers of the election tribunal by nullifying the declaration originally made.

Her lawyer, Hussaini Zakariyau, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), said a judicial review exists to enable a superior court to stop the actions and decisions of lower courts as well as the legislative and administrative arm of government including agencies and public officers.

He argued that as a public agency, INECs actions, records, and decisions can be checked by the court. He added that only a court can nullify the actions of an official of INEC and not INEC itself.

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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says it will write the Inspector General of Police, Usman Baba, for immediate investigation and possible prosecution of the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Adamawa State, Hudu Ari, who illegally announced Aisha Dahiru of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner of the gubernatorial elections in the state.

The electoral commission also said it will request the Secretary to Government of the Federation to draw attention to the appointing authority to the unwholesome behaviour of the REC for further action.

This was contained in a terse statement posted on the commissions Twitter handle on Tuesday shortly after a meeting in Abuja.

At its meeting today, 18th April 2023, the Commission discussed matters arising from the Adamawa Governorship election and decided to write to the Inspector-General of Police for the immediate investigation and possible prosecution of the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Adamawa State, Barr. Hudu Yunusa Ari, the commission wrote.

INEC also said the collation of results would resume as determined by the Returning Officer.

This is coming barely 24 hours after the commission barred Mr Ari from its premises in Adamawa and ordered the Administrative Secretary in the state, Adamu Gujungu, to take over INEC activities in Adamawa.

Mr Aris illegal declaration of result on Sunday had resulted in a controversy over the outcome of the elections.

INEC declared the RECs announcement as null and void, and suspended the collation of results.

The commission said Mr Aris action was an usurpation of the powers of the Returning Officer empowered by law to collate and announce the result of the election.

Mrs Dahiru, popularly called Binani, whom Mr Ari illegally announced as winner, has approached a Federal High Court in Abuja to stop INEC from nullifying her announcement as winner of the election.

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President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday said the actualisation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021 is the second biggest achievement in the countrys energy sector.

The president disclosed this while declaring the Nigeria International Energy Summit, (NIES) 2023, open at the presidential banquet hall in Abuja on Monday.

Mr Buhari, represented by Boss Mustapha, the secretary to the government of the federation, explained that for decades, Nigerians were told that it would be near impossible to pass the bil because of vested interests,

On 16 August 2021, Mr Buhari signed the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) 2021 into law.

The Petroleum Industry Act provides legal, governance, regulatory and fiscal framework for the Nigerian petroleum industry, the development of host communities, and related matters.

Speaking on Monday, Mr Buhari described the bill as revolutionary.

The president said that when he assumed office in 2015, his administration set out to dismantle the challenges it met on the ground by embarking on major reforms.

According to him, during his administration, the government quickly moved to scrap the existing agencies and replaced them with new regulators, while the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) was immediately transformed into a limited liability.

He added that the new NNPC is on course to becoming the biggest, most capitalised and most profitable company in the whole of Africa.

Our perspectives have provided the incoming government with the tools to guide Nigerians energy future. I enjoin industry stakeholders to give the incoming administration the support and cooperation I received from you, he said.

He noted that energy will remain the top priority of his administration till his last day in office.

The first task we combated is the issue of funding and sanitising the oil and gas sector; we then proceeded to exit the federal government from joint registrar cash go-funding. This freed the federal government from the shoes of funding the oil sector.

The Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) remains our second biggest achievement in the energy sector. For decades, we were told that because of various vested interests, it would be nearly impossible to pass the bill but we made it happen, Mr Buhari said.

Natural Gas

In the natural gas sector, Mr Buhari announced that he pushed for the diversification of Nigerias economy and drove industrialisation through domestic gas utilisation, officially declaring natural gas as Nigerias transition fuel.

We also made giant strides in infrastructure. We kick started the $2.8 billion AjaokutaKadunaKano (AKK) natural gas pipeline project. The AKK project will transport up to 3,500 million cubic feet (mcf) of gas a day from various gas-gathering projects and help to generate 3.6 gigawatts of power and support gas-based industries along the route when completed. At present, the 614 km gas pipeline is 43 per cent completed.

We have also reinvigorated the private sector in the industry. We ensured an attractive framework for the indigenous companies to take advantage of divestment by International Oil Companies (IOCs) assets.

This move ensured that the indigenous companies grew their capacity tremendously and they are now accountable for about 30 per cent of national oil and gas production up from just about 2 per cent in 2010.

We implemented a marginal field bid round and saw to the conclusion of the process which resulted in the award of Petroleum Prospecting Licences (PPLs) to 161 successful firms with the federal government raking in about N200 billion as well as $7 million from the process, he said.

Meanwhile, in a statement on Monday, Mele Kyari, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) Group Chief Executive Officer said the world today has recognized the need to ensure sustainability in the energy landscape which is in line with the current realities and as key players in the energy sector.

Mr Kyari said the companys mandate of providing energy for the country remains a priority.

He said in order to achieve that, NNPC is poised to reliably deliver energy to its stakeholders, through efficient utilization of hydrocarbons and other new energy sources which Nigeria is blessed with.

You will agree with me that sustained energy sufficiency directly enables economic growth and development as can be seen in the history of developed countries. This is why we are focused on efficiently producing energy while minimizing the effect on the environment.

Oil and gas remain a significant component of energy in the global energy mix therefore we are unlocking more opportunities across both the oil and gas value chain spanning from supply and infrastructure to the markets, he said.

For instance, he said, the NNPC Limited is actively supporting the federal government towards the realization of key initiatives such as the Decade of Gas and the National Gas Expansion Programme (NGEP) which seeks to deepen natural gas utilization as an alternative transportation fuel, virtual gas supply to off-pipeline grid gas customers and gas utilization as feedstock for the development of gas-based industries.

This is evident in the definite actions taken to utilize CNG and LNG to power vehicles, buildings and power plants.

NNPC Limited is also investing heavily in critical gas infrastructure such as the Ajaokuta-Abuja-Kano (AKK) gas pipeline and the OB3 gas interconnector to support 5 Bscf/d of domestic gas utilization including 5 GW of power generation capacity by developing power plant projects along the AKK pipeline corridor and across the country to complement the existing ones, Mr Kyari said.

For the gas export market, he said the ongoing NLNG Train 7 will expand Nigerias LNG production capacity to about 30 million tons per annum (30 MTPA).

This is in addition to the planned Nigerian Morocco and the Trans Sahara Gas Pipeline projects which will supply gas to sub-regional African countries and subsequently Europe.

READ ALSO:Buhari inaugurates NNPC power project in Maiduguri

In addition to our existing Upstream activities, we are also deepening exploration activities of the Nations frontier Basins using the best industry standards and technologies which are already yielding results such as the Kolmani discovery, and we are hopeful that the recent spud-in of the EBENYI A in Nasarawa State will yield positive result as well.

NNPC will continue to leverage our partnerships with the Industry, Government, Research Institutions and Academia to ensure energy security and sustainability, he said.

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The Federal High Court, Abuja, is set to hear an application by the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Adamawa State, Aisha Dahiru, popularly called Binani, over the declaration of the results of the governorship election in the state, on Tuesday.

The application sought to stop the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from reversing an officials illegal declaration of Binani as the winner of the election.

The matter, which is on number 26 on the cause list, will be presided over by the judge, Inyang Ekwo.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Binani, in the motion ex-parte marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/510/2023, is suing INEC, the People Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Governor Ahmadu Fintiri as 1st, 2nd and 3rd respondents respectively.

But her application was filed ex parte, meaning it was meant to be heard in the absence of the other parties sued in the case.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Hudu Ari, had declared Mrs Dahiru the governor-elect, following last Sundays supplementary election in the state.

Mr Ari, in making the declaration, attempted to usurp the power of the collation officer appointed by INEC. The electoral body had swiftly reversed Mr Aris declaration and announced that the legitimate collation and announcement of final results of the election would continue at a later date.

Mrs Dahiru has her main rival in the election in Governor Fintiri of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who scored more votes during the main election on 18 March.

Binani, through her lawyer, Hussaini Zakariyau, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, sought a judicial review of the administrative decision of INEC on 16 April in respect of her declaration as the winner of the governorship elections held on 18 March and the supplementary poll of April 15.

She is also seeking an order of prohibition and certiorari preventing INEC and its agents from taking any further steps towards the declaration of the winner of the elections pending the determination of her application for judicial review.

The application was brought pursuant to Order 34 Rules 1a, Order 3(1) & 3(2) a, b, c, Order 6 of the Federal High Court (Civil Procedure Rules), 2019 and Section 251 (1)q & r of the 1999 Constitution, as well as Section 149 & 152 of the Electoral Act, 2022.

Grounds

Giving grounds why the motion should be granted, Mrs Dahiru stated that after the collation of results, INEC declared her as the winner of the elections but the PDP and its candidate, Governor Fintiri, resorted to fighting and causing a public disturbance which led to the beating and manhandling of an INEC staff.

This crisis, she said, led INEC to cancel the initial declaration which it had no power to do as only the election petition tribunal is vested with such powers.

By cancelling her declaration, Dahiru contended that INEC usurped the powers of the election petition tribunal which is the only court vested with powers on a declaration from the conduct of an election.

In the application, she averred that a judicial review exists to enable the superior court to checkmate the actions and decisions of inferior courts as well as the legislative and administrative arm of government including agencies and public officers.

The applicant further submits that the INEC, being an agency of the government, can have its actions, records, and decisions checked by the court and only a court can nullify the actions of an INEC official and not the INEC itself.

The motion had yet to be heard as of the time of filing the report.

(NAN)

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. The Azerbaijani Army today is much stronger than the Azerbaijani Army that won the war in 2020, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev said in an interview with Azerbaijan Television in the Salyan district, Trend reports.

"In the two and a half years that have passed after the war, a lot of attention has been paid to issues of army building.

I can say with full confidence that the Azerbaijani Army today is much stronger than the Azerbaijani Army that won the war in 2020. At the same time, I want to say again that we have to be ready for any situation and at any time," President Ilham Aliyev said.
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The Federal High Court in Abuja, on Tuesday, raised doubts about its power to hear an application by the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Adamawa State, Aisha Dahiru-Ahmed, popularly called Binani, over the governorship election in the state.

Binani had filed the suit to seek an order validating an illegal declaration by an official of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) awarding her victory in the election.

Disputes relating to the conduct of an election or the declaration of its results are usually resolved at the election petition tribunal, a point that triggered the doubts raised by the judge about whether a regular court could hear the Adamawa matter.

The judge, Inyang Ekwo, directed Binanis lawyer, Mohammed Sheriff, to return to court on 26 April to address him on the point of law.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Hudu Ari, had illegally declared Mrs Dahiru the governor-elect, following last Sundays supplementary election in the state.

Mr Ari, in making the declaration, attempted to usurp the power of the collation officer appointed by INEC. The electoral body had swiftly reversed Mr Aris declaration and announced that the legitimate collation and announcement of final results of the election would continue at a later date.

INEC also barred Mr Ari from its premises immediately. On Wednesday the commission said it had referred him to the police for investigations and possible prosecution.

Mrs Dahiru has her main rival in the election in Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who scored the most votes during the main election on 18 March.

Suit

Binani, through her lawyer, Hussaini Zakariyau, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, sought a judicial review of the administrative decision of INEC on 16 April in respect of her declaration as the winner of the governorship election held on 18 March and the supplementary poll of 15 April.

She sued INEC, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Governor Fintiri, as the 1st, 2nd and 3rd respondents respectively.

She sought an order of prohibition and certiorari preventing INEC and its agents from taking any further steps towards the declaration of the winner of the elections pending the determination of her application for judicial review.

Hearing

Although, Binanis application filed ex parte, was meant to be heard on Wednesday in the absence of other parties sued as defendants in the case, a lawyer, Afeez Matomi, announced appearance for Governor Fintiri, the 3rd respondent, in the suit.

Mr Ekwo asked Mr Matomi if he had been served.

The lawyer told the court that though they were yet to be served, they had filed a motion to counter part of Binanis prayers.

He said they got wind of the ex-parte motion through social media, hence, they decided to file a motion.

But the judge declined to listen to Mr Fintiris lawyer insisting that things must be done according to law.

Mr Ekwo then turned to Binanis lawyer, Mohammed Sheriff.

Doubtful if he had the jurisdiction to hear the suit, Mr Ekwo ordered Mr Sheriff to address him on the point of law on Tuesday.

The lawyer said his ex-parte motion was filed on April 17 and that he was ready to move it.

Mr Ekwo directed that the application would be taken together with the issue of jurisdiction on the next adjourned date.

He then adjourned the matter until 26 April for hearing of the motion and the submissions on the jurisdiction of the court.

Meanwhile, INEC is expected to resume the announcement of the final results of the election any moment.

Grounds of suit

Giving the grounds why the motion should be granted, Binani stated that after the collation of results, INEC declared her as the winner of the elections but the PDP and its candidate, Governor Fintiri, resorted to fighting and causing a public disturbance which led to the beating and manhandling of an INEC staffer.

This crisis, she said, led INEC to cancel the initial declaration which it had no power to do as only the election petition tribunal is vested with such powers.

By cancelling her declaration, Binani contended that INEC usurped the powers of the election petition tribunal which is the only court vested with powers on a declaration from the conduct of an election.

In the application, she averred that a judicial review exists to enable the superior court to checkmate the actions and decisions of inferior courts as well as the legislative and administrative arm of government including agencies and public officers.

The applicant further submitted that the INEC, being an agency of the government, can have its actions, records, and decisions checked by the court and only a court can nullify the actions of an INEC official and not the INEC itself.

(NAN)

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The collation of results of the supplementary election in Adamawa State has resumed.

The collation resumed around 3:40 p.m. under heavy security presence at the INEC collation centre in Yola, the state capital.

The spokesperson of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Festus Okoye, and INEC Returning Officer Mohammed Mele, are coordinating collation of the results.

The embattled Resident Electoral Commissioner of INEC in the state, Hudu Ari, had illegally declared candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Aisha Dahiru popularly called Binani, as winner of the election.

The controversy it generated forced INEC to immediately order suspension of the collation of result till further notice.

Mr Ari was also barred from the INEC office. The commission said it would write the Inspector General of Police, Usman Alkali, to investigate and prosecute Mr Ari.

Meanwhile, Mrs Dahiru whom Mr Ari illegally declared winner has approached a Federal High Court in Abuja to stop INEC from nullifying the illegal declaration.

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The Federal High Court in Abuja on Tuesday dismissed a suit filed by the All Progressives Congress (APC) seeking the removal of Governor Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto State for defecting from the party to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in August 2018.

The judge, Inyang Ekwo, refused to grant the request on the grounds that similar suits were voided by the Court of Appeal in several judgments.

Mr Ekwo, in his judgement, said since the Appeal Courts verdicts which held that governors cannot forfeit their seats on the grounds of defection had not been set aside by the Supreme Court, they remained the law and binding on lower courts.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Mr Tambuwal, who was elected as governor on the APCs platform, had on 1 August 2018, defected to the PDP less than a year to the expiration of his tenure. He was re-elected on the platform of the APC for a four-year tenure that runs till May 2023.

The APC is also a beneficiary of such controversial defections. Governors Dave Umahi of Ebonyi, Ben Ayade of Cross River, and Bello Matawalle of Zamfara all abandoned the PDP, the platform on which they were elected in 2019, for the APC in the last two years.

PDP had similarly instituted failed legal actions against the defecting governors to retrieve the mandates the governors received in its names at the 2019 elections.

APCs suit against Tambuwal

APC similarly filed a suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/449/2022 on 5 April 2022, urging the court to invoke Sections 177, 179 and 189 of the 1999 Constitution to declare the governorship seat of Sokoto State vacant on the account of defection by Mr Tambuwal to another party.

The party sued the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), PDP and Tambuwal as 1st to 3rd defendants respectively.

The party sought a declaration that by defecting from APC to PDP, a political party that did not win the governorship election in the state, Tambuwal had resigned or was deemed to have resigned from the office of the Governor of Sokoto State with effect from from 1st August, 2018 until the end of the tenure on the 28th May, 2019.

It sought an order declaring all actions, functions and duties performed by Tambuwal from 1 August 2018 to May 28, 2019 as unconstitutional, unlawful, illegal, null and void.

It also prayed for an order compelling the governor to immediately refund all salaries received from 1 August 2018 to 28 May 2019 to the end of that tenure, including allowances and security votes.

Besides, APC sought a declaration that Mr Tambuwal was unfit to hold public office for violating the provisions of the 1999 Constitution (as Amended).

Justice Ekwo held that lawyers ought to have counselled their clients in respect of such matters that are pending before the Supreme Court.

He said it would amount to an exercise in futility for the Federal High Court to decide on a matter pending before the apex court.

The judge held that the APCs suit failed. He said the suit lacked merit in view of the position of the Court of Appeal on similar matters. He went on to dismiss the suit.

Mr Tambuwal recently won the Sokoto South senatorial seat in the National Assembly on the platform of the PDP.

A former Speaker of the lower chamber, the House of Representatives, he will be inaugurated as a senator days after stepping down as governor of Sokoto State on 29 May.

(NAN)

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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) says it is confident that the decision of the Federal High Court, Abuja on the suit filed by Aisha Dahiru of the APC seeking validation of her illegal declaration as governor-elect of Adamawa State, would be in its favour.

Acting National Chairman of the PDP, Umar Damagum, stated this on Tuesday while addressing journalists at the partys secretariat in Abuja.

INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner in Adamawa State, Hudu Ari, on Sunday declared Mrs Dahiru, also called Binani, winner of the governorship election in the state while the collation of the results of the supplementary election held the previous day was ongoing.

The electoral law provides that announcements of results should be made by the returning officer, who is a different person, usually appointed from higher institutions.

Consequently, INEC declared the RECs action null and void.

Mrs Dahiru, on Monday, approached the court seeking court order to restrain the commission from voiding the illegal declaration that announced her as governor-elect.

In the application, she said Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State, who is candidate of the PDP, allegedly disturbed her declaration as winner of the poll and attacked an INEC National Commissioner, a situation that forced the electoral commission to declare the election null and void.

The court on Tuesday adjourned hearing on the suit until 26 April.

PDP leading

But, Mr Damagun claimed that available results from polling units indicated that Mr Fintiri won the election with a clear lead.

APC is shopping for a court order to stop the continuation of the collation process. I dont know whether theyre doing this with the INEC. We are aware that an application was filed before the federal high court, it is an ex-parte application seeking judicial review, Mr Damagum stated.

We have not been served as a party, we are studying the process and I can assure you that we are above it.

Demands

Mr Damagum demanded immediate declaration of the total results of the election.

He urged the Inspector General of Police, Usman Alkali, to as a matter of urgency sanction the Adamawa State Commissioner of Police for allegedly providing cover for perpetrators of criminal acts against Nigerias democracy.

The PDP national chairman also encouraged the leadership of the electoral commission to hand over the Resident Electoral Commissioner of INEC in the state, Hudu Ari, to the police for investigation and prosecution.

The PDP insists that such subversive conduct of Mallam Hudu Yunusa Ari must not go unpunished. We restate our demand that INEC should without further delay hand over Mallam Hudu Yunusa Ari to the police for investigation and prosecution, he said.

The Inspector General of Police should, as a matter of urgency, remove, investigate and sanction the Adamawa State Commissioner of Police for providing cover and enabling the perpetration of this grievous criminal act against our democracy.

Tension

Mr Damagum said continuous delay in declaration of the total results and winner of the election may spark violence in the state.

He urged the INEC Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, to direct the Returning Officer, Mohammed Mele, to immediately conclude collation, declare the final results and return Mr Fintiri as the duly elected Governor of Adamawa State.

Gentlemen of the press, the PDP, majority of Nigerians and indeed the International Community are now worried that in spite of the results of the election as obtained from the Polling Units, which show Governor Umaru Ahmadu Fintiri in clear lead, INEC has continued to delay the conclusion of official collation, announcement and declaration of the rightful winner of the election.

This continuing delay is heightening tension in Adamawa State and is capable of triggering a serious breakdown of Law and Order in the State, which is already overstretched as a result of the many perverse activities of the heavily compromised Adamawa State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Mallam Hudu Yunusa Ari.

It is therefore imperative and urgent that INEC does the needful and save Adamawa State from serious crisis by directing the Returning Officer, Prof. Mohammed Mele, to immediately conclude collation, declare the final results and return the rightful winner, Governor Umaru Ahmadu Fintiri as the duly elected Governor of Adamawa State, Mr Damagun said.

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Like her West-African counterpart- Ghana, Nigeria on Monday made history with the approval granted a new malaria vaccine- R21/Matrix-M, which has been developed by the University of Oxford and manufactured by the Serum Institute of India.

With malaria accounting for 60 per cent of outpatient visits to the nations health facilities; 30 per cent of childhood deaths; 11 per cent of maternal death, and 25 per cent of deaths in infants, Nigeria is said to contribute a huge 27 per cent to the global malaria burden.

Confronted by this staggering statistics, Nigerias decision to endorse any measure aimed at curtailing the rampaging disease would be applauded by the people. And this was the basis the countrys National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) announced the approval granted the vaccine use after it conducted its in-house checks.

NAFDAC said Nigeria expects to get at least 100,000 doses of the vaccine in donations soon.

This development has been described by many as a step forward in the fight against the life-threatening disease.

About new vaccine

The R21, otherwise referred to as Matrix-M malaria vaccine, is the second vaccine ever developed for a disease that claims more than 600,000 lives each year, most of which are children.

The first-ever malaria vaccine, RTS, S or mosquirix, from British drugmaker- GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), was approved by the WHO in 2021 after decades of work, but various research shows that the effectiveness of the vaccine is approximately 60 per cent, and that it significantly wanes over time, even with a booster dose.

But the latest intervention, according to the University of Oxford, a booster dose of the R21/Matrix-M vaccine at one year following a primary three-dose regime, maintained high efficacy against malaria and continued to meet the WHOs Malaria Vaccine Technology Roadmap goal of a vaccine with at least 75 per cent efficacy.

It is also reported that the 2021 results from the Phase-IIb trial reported that R21/Matrix-M demonstrated high-level efficacy of 77 per cent.

The researchers also confirmed that R21/Matrix-M vaccine has undergone clinical trials in the UK, Thailand, and several African countries, including an ongoing phase III trial in Burkina Faso, Kenya, Mali and Tanzania, which the said has enrolled 4,800 children.

However, while the World Health Organisation (WHO) is yet to give go-ahead for its roll-out, both Nigeria and Ghanas drug regulators have approved it domestically for children between the ages of five months and three years old.

Vaccines targets

The R21/Matrix-M vaccine is said to target the plasmodium sporozoite, which is the first form of the malaria parasite entering the human body.

According to the Director General of NAFDAC, Mojisola Adeyeye, the R21 Malaria vaccine is an adjuvanted protein vaccine presented as a sterile solution. A dose which is 0.5ml is composed of R21 Malaria antigen 5g and Matrix-M1 50g as an adjuvant filled in a vial as a ready-to-use liquid formulation for intramuscular injection.

Mrs Adeyeye said the R21 malaria vaccine dossier complied substantially with the best international standards with which the dossier was bench-marked, adding that its torage temperature is 2-8 C.

Vaccine supply

Gavi, a publicprivate global vaccine alliance with the goal of increasing access to immunisation in poor countries, has said the supply of the R21/Matrix-M vaccine should be able to meet its demand.

PREMIUM TIMES has reported that the Oxford team in collaboration with the Serum Institute of India will produce up to 200 million doses annually with a vaccine factory being constructed in Accra, Ghana.

According to Gavi, mass production of the vaccine will mean that it wont face the same bottlenecks in manufacturing hurdles encountered by other vaccines, including the COVID-19 vaccines.

This is critical because vaccinating those at high risk of malaria simultaneously will be important in stemming the spread of disease, as well as protecting the vaccinated, it noted.

Possible roll-out schedule

Gavi has also confirmed that WHO is currently assessing whether to prequalify the vaccine for wider use or not.

It said if WHO eventually recommends it, Gavi and UNICEF could begin funding and procuring doses immediately to protect children across Africa as soon as possible.

However, the idea is not to replace RTS, S but to be complementary  Gavi has already approved funding for a malaria vaccine programme and is ready to support the roll-out of R21 alongside RTS, S, it added

Africas malaria burden

According to the latest WHO World Malaria Report, the African region continues to carry a disproportionately high share of the global malaria burden.

The report published in December 2022 shows that there were 247 million cases of malaria in 2021 compared to 245 million cases in 2020. The estimated number of malaria deaths stood at 619,000 in 2021 compared to 625,000 in 2020.

In 2021, Africa accounted for about 95 per cent of all malaria cases and 96 per cent of deaths, with children under 5 years of age accounting for about 80 per cent of all malaria deaths in the region.

READ ALSO: Hope for millions as Nigeria approves malaria vaccine

Four African countries accounted for just over half of all malaria deaths worldwide: Nigeria (31.3 per cent), the Democratic Republic of the Congo (12.6 per cent), the United Republic of Tanzania (4.1 per cent) and Niger (3.9 per cent).

Nigerias Health Minister, Osagie Ehanire, said in the country, about 10 persons die every hour due to malaria or malaria-related issues.

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The Inspector General of Police, Usman Baba, has ordered the removal of the Commissioner of Police on election duty in Adamawa State, Mohammed Barde, over his alleged role in the illegal declaration of the APC candidate, Aisha Dahiru, as the winner of the state governorship election on Sunday.

Police spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi, disclosed this at a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday according to Channels TV.

Mr Adejobi also said the IGP has directed the Gombe State Police Commissioner, Etim Equa, to proceed to take charge.

Mr Barde and other security chiefs were present at the collation centre when the INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in the state, Hudu Ari, declared Mrs Dahiru, popularly called Binani, as winner of the governorship poll.

Mr Ari declared the APC candidate winner while the collation of the results of Saturdays supplementary election had not been concluded.

Besides, according to the Electoral Act, the returning officer and not the REC, has the responsibility to declare results of the elections.

The IGP has given directive that the commissioner of police on election security in Adamawa State, CP Barde should pull out of Adamawa State and the Commissioner of Police in charge of Gombe State, CP Etim Equa to proceed to Adamawa immediately, to go and supervise election and provide necessary information and ensure that the process is a success, Mr Adejobi said.

The police spokesperson said the Force had not received any letter from INEC demanding the investigation and prosecution of Mr Ari.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that INEC, at its meeting in Abuja on Tuesday, reached a decision to write to the IGP to demand the probe and prosecution of the embattled REC.

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The kidnapped female students of Government Secondary School (GSS) Awon in Kachia Local government Area of Kaduna State have escaped from their abductors.

Samuel Aruwan, the Kaduna State commissioner of the Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, announced the development in a statement to reporters on Tuesday.

The eight female students of Government Secondary School, Awon  who were kidnapped by terrorists on Monday 3rd April 2023 in the Awon general area of Kachia LGA have escaped from the terrorists den.

The students escaped from a forest around the Kaduna  Niger interstate boundaries and walked for days before arriving at a location (kept undisclosed for security reasons) where they were harboured.

Human intelligence sources subsequently alerted the Kaduna State Government for immediate evacuation, the Kaduna government statement said.

The statement said Governor Nasir El-Rufai on receipt of the intelligence directed the Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs to liaise with the 1 Division Nigerian Army for the urgent evacuation of the students to Kaduna Metropolis.

It was credibly gathered that the terrorists were combing forests in the area to recapture the students, he added.

The students have been safely evacuated to a military facility where they are presently receiving medical attention.

Meanwhile, Governor El-Rufai has expressed his delight over the development and has praised the students for demonstrating sheer courage and resilience in making their escape from captivity.

The Governor admonished them to view the horrific experience as a turning point and pursue their education with renewed vigour for a purposeful future.

READ ALSO: 33 people buried after attack in Kaduna

The Governor also commended the General Officer Commanding, 1 Division, Major General OT Akinjobi for the prompt evacuation and the ongoing medicals being conducted on the students, the statement said.

Kaduna is in the larger part of North-west Nigeria where terrorists target public schools for kidnapping for ransom. Other states where the incidents often occur include Zamfara, Kebbi and North-central Niger state.

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The Nigerian police have demoted an officer who was filmed slapping a motorist in Emouha, Rivers State, South-south Nigeria.

The exact date of the incident is unknown, but the clip surfaced online around 9 April.

In the clip which has been circulating on Twitter, Facebook and WhatsApp, one of the officers, armed with an AK-47 rifle, is seen slapping the unidentified man after beating him with a cane.

Another officer was also filmed shoving a woman, said to be the mans wife, into a car.

Amidst outrage on social media, the police in Rivers and at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, had condemned the officers action before they three of them  were later arrested and taken to Abuja to face administrative trial.

The spokesperson for the Force Headquarters, Muyiwa Adejobi, in a statement on Tuesday, said Adejoh Siaka, the inspector who assaulted the motorist, has been demoted to the rank of sergeant after an administrative trial.

Mr Adejobi, a chief superintendent of police, said one other officer, Ndiwa Kpuebari, a sergeant, was reprimanded for being present at the scene of the incident and not taking any action to discourage such inappropriate and shameful act.

However, one Inspector Friday Obaka, who was later discovered to have been absent from the scene of the skirmish was discharged unconditionally after the proceedings.

In all, the three policemen will be posted out of Rivers State to other Commands and Formations to continue their police duties, Mr Adejobi said.

The Inspector General of Police has therefore tasked officers and men of the Force to be diligent and uphold the lofty tenets of professional policing in the discharge of their duties with respect for the fundamental rights of all citizens in line with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), he added.

The Rivers incident occurred a few days after a police officer allegedly shot dead a young man in the neighbouring Delta State for reportedly refusing to give N100 bribe.

PREMIUM TIMES reported how youths in Delta State protested with the victims corpse along major roads in Asaba.

The victim, Onyeka Ibe, was inside a car with his wife when he was shot.

The officer who allegedly shot the man had been arrested and detained.

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The unmasking of rogue elements like the embattled Adamawa REC should also point to something else. INEC officials on the field during elections must be subjected to routine alcohol and psychiatric tests. This is the strongest plausible response to Hudu Yunusa-Aris behaviour. What worsens the entire matter in our view is that he was reportedly accompanied on his unholy mission by the Adamawa State Commissioner of Police and other policemen.

With the way the Independent National Electoral Commission of Nigeria (INEC) is carrying on under the watch of Professor Mahmood Yakubu as chairman, it would take a miracle for the present chairman of this controversial and embattled body, not to end up on the wrong side of history. Some jobs within the public space are by nature thankless, regardless of the efforts put in, but a job can be done so badly that what would be remembered are the ugly episodes and memories of failure. Professor Yakubus misfortune would be that it was in his time that the country came round to the idea that technology should be deployed as election tools, and that some of the reforms that Nigerians had been looking for should be addressed by updating the electoral framework.

In Yakubus time, Nigeria came up with the Electoral Act 2022, which indeed is a different kind of law, an advancement of the Electoral Act 2010. Everyone celebrated the emergence of the new Electoral Act as a game changer for Nigeria, with the novel innovations about INECs financial independence in Section 3(3), early conduct of primaries and submission of candidates list in Section 29 (1), legal backing of electronic voting and transmission of results in Sections 47 and 50(2), redefinition of overvoting in Section 51, the non-eligibility of political appointees as delegates or aspirants in Section 84(12), special provisions for the physically challenged in Section 54, early commencement and longer period of campaigns in Section 94, provision for a central electronic data base in Section 99 Mahmood Yakubus INEC boasted that it had tested the law in the bye-elections in Osun and Ekiti states, and that during the then scheduled 2023 general elections, INEC would put all the reforms into effect. What have we seen? It turned out from the very beginning that the National Assembly did not understand the same law that it had enacted and its implications. The same people who enacted the law tried to change it. They didnt succeed. Before the elections, INEC said it was ready. It put out messages about how results would be uploaded from polling units to the INEC Results Viewing Portal in real time. It said its officials were up to the task.

The details of how INEC disappointed Nigerians is well-captured by the reports of various observers, local and international, and the tsunami of litigations that have attended the elections held this year, on 25 February (the presidential and National Assembly elections), and 18 March (the gubernatorial and State Houses of Assembly polls). Nigerias 2023 general election would go down as one of the most disputed in the countrys electoral cycle since the first general elections were held in the country in September 1923 under the Clifford Constitution of 1922. It may be said, after a fashion, that the true test of a law is in its implementation. Any piece of legislation is a living organism. Laws are made for the good of society. Thus, as living organisms, laws evolve and implementation structures and organs are aligned with the law-givers original intentions. I am of the view that given the contortions that have been experienced so far with the Electoral Act 2022, Nigeria needs to work further on the electoral framework, to oxygenate and deepen our democracy, and to align it more reasonably with the peoples will. The minimum lesson at this point is that when a law is made, those who are expected to operationalise it must study and understand it. State and party officials are so routinely distracted, they do not pay enough attention.

The extent to which this is so is that after the elections of 25 February and 18 March, the electoral body, INEC took the decision to conduct supplementary elections in 24 states of the Federation, 2,660 polling units, 93 legislative constituencies and 185 local governments, where elections had been declared inconclusive. Those supplementary elections took place on Saturday, 15 April. INEC said it was better prepared, having learnt lessons from its most recent exercises, and having tested the Electoral Act in a general election. It was possible to believe that certain lessons had been learnt within the space of close to a month: 18 March  15 April. The Inspector General of Police lent his voice to the matter and said that the supplementary elections would proceed smoothly. But on 15 April, it was deja vu. The morning after, Vanguard newspaper reported as follows: Supplementary Elections: Violence, vote-buying reign as NNPP wins more seats in Kano. The Sunday PUNCH told us: Supplementary Elections: Four Killed, Houses razed, Thugs Disrupt Polls in Rivers, Anambra, Others. The paper added in its front-page story: Three killed in Kano for disrupting poll, soldiers shoot Kebbi ballot snatcher dead, APC, PDP, NNPP await INEC declaration of Adamawa, Kebbi gov seats.  The report by Sunday Sun was as follows: Violence, Apathy, Late Arrival of Materials Mar Supplementary Elections, with the rider: 3 feared killed in Kano, Thugs, police, Ebubeagu chase away voters, abduct electoral officials in Imo, 6 persons arrested, 1 at large in Adamawa, over attempt to hack BVAS, vote buying , thuggery in Anambra, apathy, intimidation in Edo The Nigerian Tribune reported: Supplementary Elections: Again, violence, ballot snatching rock exercise  4 killed in Kano, Kebbi, EFCC arrests 12 in Kano, Katsina for vote-buying.. The Sunday Independent said: Sokoto Polls suffer voter apathy, late arrival of materials.

before that advertised time of resumption, the State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) reportedly came into the centre and, holding a handwritten note, without announcing any outstanding collated results, proceeded to announce Aisha Dahiru of the APC as the winner of the gubernatorial election in Adamawa State. This threw the collation centre into confusion as party agents asked: How?

The same weekend, party primaries were held in some of the states where off-cycle elections would take place later in 2023. The primaries were just as problematic. In Kogi State, four aspirants were reported to have rejected the APC gubernatorial primaries. The Nation said: Sylva wins Bayelsa APC Guber Primary Confusion as Labour Party holds factional primaries in Imo Anxiety in Kebbi, Adamawa over guber elections. In one word, despite all the concerns and anxieties expressed about the 2023 process, as seen on 25 February and 18 March, the supplementary elections of 15 April, and even the party primaries in Imo, Bayelsa, and Kogi states, indicated very clearly, that nothing had changed and nothing would probably change, going forward. Nigerians run a peculiar kind of democracy where anything and everything is possible and the only thing that matters is winning at all costs. It is a democracy of deaf and dumb persons fixated on only one goal and who define democracy strictly by personal standards. I have stumbled on the argument that there will never be a time Nigerian democracy will be run by saints and I am tempted to believe that ours may well be described as a democracy of villains, where the smartest villain wins. The only consolation is that the day may never come when Nigerian democracy will be black-listed by the international community as a lost cause simply because Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa, the largest market in the continent, a country whose geo-political importance has direct bearing on the stability of the West African sub-region. Where then does that leave the endless talk in this country, about reforms, legacy and institutions?

Which takes us immediately to Adamawa State, Nigeria, where a show of shame was enacted on Saturday by a certain Hudu Yunusa Ari, adult, male, and Resident Electoral Commissioner of Adamawa State, who engaged in a violent act of breach of public peace by disrupting the collation of the results of the supplementary gubernatorial election in Adamawa State in a criminal and roguish manner. It would be recalled that INEC had declared the gubernatorial election in Adamawa State of 18 March inconclusive due to issues in Fufore Local Government, which caused much furore, and on the ground that the number of cancelled votes exceeded the margin of lead between the Peoples Democratic Party candidate, incumbent Governor Ahmadu Fintiri and the closest challenger, Aishatu Dahiru of the All Progressives Congress. By 9 a.m. on Sunday, 16 April, collation officers and the returning officers at the State Collation Centre in Yola, the state capital, had announced the results from 10 of the affected LGAs, with Fintiri, the PDP candidate, leading with a wide margin. The Returning Officer then announced a recess for a continuation of collation and further announcement of results to re-commenced by 11 a.m.

But before that advertised time of resumption, the State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) reportedly came into the centre and, holding a handwritten note, without announcing any outstanding collated results, proceeded to announce Aisha Dahiru of the APC as the winner of the gubernatorial election in Adamawa State. This threw the collation centre into confusion as party agents asked: How? Within a short while, the gubernatorial candidate of the APC, Aisha Dahiru, popularly known as Binani, acting on this development, immediately gave an acceptance speech. INEC would later declare REC Hudu Yunusa Aris action null, void and of no effect. INEC said it would address the matter and asked the state REC, the Hudu Yunusa Ari man and the state Returning Officer, Professor Mele Lamido, to report to the INEC Headquarters in Abuja. Yesterday, INEC directed that Hudu Yunusa-Ari should stay away from the State INEC office until further notice, and that Adamu Gujungu, the administrative secretary in Adamawa should take charge of the office with immediate effect. The suspension of Hudu Yunusa-Ari does not go far enough. His rogue conduct must be addressed fully in accordance with the law. His behaviour amounts to impunity, criminality, desperation and such brazenness that deserves closer investigation. This is not a matter that can be swept under the carpet, because it is a mockery, not just of the Adamawa supplementary election, but of the entire electoral process. It provides strong justification for those who hold the view that this has been a shambolic event.

Hudu Yunusa-Ari was required to report to the INEC headquarters. If he has not done so, he should be declared a wanted person by the security agencies immediately! By INECs own declaration, he broke the law. One, the Electoral Act of 2022 grants specific powers to the Returning Officer as the official who is empowered to collate and announce results  see Section 64 (4) and (5). Indeed, Section 65 of the same Act uses the phrase shall be final with regard to the decision of the Returning Officer on any question related to ballot papers and the declaration of results. Section 66 provides further specificity as regards the declaration of results, vested as it were in the person of the appropriate returning officer. The now suspended Adamawa Resident Electoral Commissioner not being the RO, knowingly violated the law. He should be made to face the full wrath of the law.

Mrs Aishatu Dahiru should not have delivered that acceptance speech of shame, knowing the motivation for it to be of dubious extraction. Nigerians would be excited to have a female governor who contests and wins an election, but that must be through fair and square means, not by ambush or fraudulent means. She owes the people of Adamawa an explanation and an apology.

In Part VII of the Electoral Act, dealing with Electoral Offences, specific penalties are prescribed to deal with dereliction of duty in Section 120 (1-6), where strong penalties are provided in Section 120(4), which states that, Any person who announces or publishes an election result knowing same to be false or which is at variance with the signed certificate of return commits an offence and is liable on conviction or imprisonment for a term of 36 months. Sections 120 (5) and (6) also prescribe imprisonment for a term of three years. The indicted REC must be subjected to thorough investigation. Did he collude with others? Was he induced? Is he part of a ring of conspiracy? There have been allegations that sums running into about N2 billion exchanged hands. Really? Two, Yunusa-Aris disruptive and disorderly conduct is also questionable under Section 249 of the Criminal Code. His illegal declaration of Aisha Dahiru as winner threw Adamawa State and the entire country into a state of anxiety and confusion. Aggrieved persons in the state descended on the two INEC National Commissioners, who had been sent to oversee the Adamawa process. One of them was brutalised. The other, Professor Abdullahi Abdu Zuru, a former Vice Chancellor of Usman Dan Fodiyo University, Sokoto, was beaten and stripped naked with blood streaming down his body. It was a case of mistaken identity. His assailants thought he was the REC that made the illegal announcement. While we do not recommend jungle justice, the attack on innocent Professor Zuru is most unfortunate. INEC has asked the security agencies to identify the assailants and bring them to book, but INEC needs to learn a lesson from here: the need to protect its officials, and pay more attention to their personal security.

The unmasking of rogue elements like the embattled Adamawa REC should also point to something else. INEC officials on the field during elections must be subjected to routine alcohol and psychiatric tests. This is the strongest plausible response to Hudu Yunusa-Aris behaviour. What worsens the entire matter in our view is that he was reportedly accompanied on his unholy mission by the Adamawa State Commissioner of Police and other policemen. In other words, the illegality was committed in the presence of law enforcement officers! Nigeria is one country where those who are supposed to enforce the law do not know the laws of the land! The Inspector General of Police had promised that the police will live up to expectations during the supplementary elections on 15 April. Your guess is as good as mine. The least that the IGP can do is to ask the Police Command in Adamawa to produce their friend, the now suspended Resident Electoral Commissioner! Going forward, much better attention must be paid to the recruitment of persons for electoral duties. The INEC Chairman, before the election, had said that RECs, Collation Officers and Returning Officers were expected to be non-partisan, that is neutral, in the discharge of their responsibilities. They even swore on oath to that effect. Nigerias 2023 elections coincided with the Holy Month of Lent (Christian) and Ramadan (Muslim), and yet in the same season, the country has witnessed so much corruption and dishonesty.

Mrs Aishatu Dahiru should not have delivered that acceptance speech of shame, knowing the motivation for it to be of dubious extraction. Nigerians would be excited to have a female governor who contests and wins an election, but that must be through fair and square means, not by ambush or fraudulent means. She owes the people of Adamawa an explanation and an apology. Many others, including Festus Keyamo (SAN) jumped the gun. I have expressed the shock that more than a day after the faux pas, Keyamo, an officer in the temple of justice, is yet to take down his twitter post on the Adamawa election. The ball is now squarely in INECs court to ensure that the process in Adamawas supplementary election is concluded and that due process runs its complete course in a just manner. The big ogre in all this is how corruption is at the core of the Nigerian character from politics to the catering business.

Reuben Abati, a former presidential spokesperson, writes from Lagos.

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As long as elections are not conducted as fairly as possible in their entirety: involving a process where citizens decide who to vote for without manipulation, fear or force, Nigerias false democracy will become the reality for many years to come. Elections should be simply what they are: that people vote, and their choices serve them. They should not be spaces for haggling, disruption, chaos, triviality, and further corruption.

Elections contribute to the success of a democracy because they allow people to choose who they want to serve them  not to rule over, oppress or exploit them. But elections are also a persistent feature in false democracies: they are riddled with irregularities, inaccuracies, and hiccups, all held together by the corruption that is built into such systems. Nigeria is a case in point. The latest elections present some familiar characteristics from previous elections in the country. These characteristics include:

Corruption: As with every election in Nigeria, corruption rears its ugly head through the disbursement of funds to key individuals who have access to votes and can manipulate and alter the numbers and cause insecurity. This is also evident in the bribery for votes. An article in 2016 by Gram Matenga shows that in Nigeria, only 6% of citizens believe that there is no bribing for votes in the country. The practice of vote-buying in Nigeria is not new, as voters have been offered food, clothing and jobs in return for their votes. Vote-buying also occurs throughout the electoral cycle, from voter registration, party nominations, campaigns, and even on the election day. On election days, politicians conspire with elections officials to monitor voting behaviour and agents are hired at key voting stations to determine how people vote, and they compensate them for this. The public and private destruction of legitimate votes, ballot snatching, the creation of new votes from non-existent individuals, are all part of these corrupt practices. In days preceding the 2023 elections, reports and accusations of corruption between political candidates increased significantly, thus shedding light on the engrained culture of corruption, even by these individuals when in political office. The head of the local chapter of Transparency International, Auwal Rafsanjani, notes that party primaries presented clear cases of corruption, where vote-buying and bribing were common. The practice of hijacking and commercialising the primaries make it difficult for honest candidates to emerge. In the recent elections, electoral observers noted the manipulation of votes on a large scale, the compromise of the new electronic voting system  the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), long delays in counting the votes, and photographic proofs of vote counts having major irregularities. Fact checking organisation, Africa check, noted that information from the ground showed polling results from a unit in Sokoto State was uploaded in another unit in Rivers State. The switching of results was also reported in units in Imo, Lagos, and Rivers states.

Elitistism: Alliances are made between various elites to toss the country around amongst each other every eight years or so, as they see fit. Adekunle Adekoya notes how political parties are special purpose vehicles where these elite alliances congregate to accumulate political power and access the resources of the nation. Politicians therefore campaign and win on a specific party platform, and after completing their terms, they defect to other parties or, in some instances, create their own parties. They fail to engage with the general population, except when their votes are needed. These elitist pacts overpower the voices of the many others who face very difficult conditions every day. Because of this, elections are about whose turn it is to pillage resources, sit at the helm of power and reward allies, and not about improving the economic, political, and security situations of the country. This form of elitism is when the ordinary people cannot vote for whom they want, but the elite decide using their resources, networks, and actions to influence the voting process. The constant crossing across party lines and defections by the political elite is very common, and in many instances they are not guided by issues or policies but personal interests and ambitions for power. In 2021, the defections of political elites like the Governor of Ebonyi State, Dave Umahi; Minister for Niger Delta Affairs, Godswill Akpabio; Senator Elisha Abbo; former governor of Oyo State, Christopher Alao Akala; a former governor of Bayelsa State, Timipre Sylva; and current Edo State governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki, from the PDP to the APC, shows the elitist politics in Nigeria. According to Ayo Olukotun, these defectors switch parties in order to be awarded key political appointments or to forestall their prosecution or persecution by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. According to Emelike and Iniobong, in their many years of existence, the elite in Nigeria protect their assets and during elections make promises but fail to keep them. This elitist approach is seen through the divvying up of Nigerias resources and sharing positions among themselves, while leaving the rest of the country in massive underdevelopment and poverty. In his work, Elite conspiracy against Nigerians, Lekan Sote describes the elite consensus in Nigeria as conspiracy against the interest of the poor masses and the most cunning scheme to convert the commonwealth of the country to the advantage of a few.

Exclusion: Citizens are cut off from participating fully in elections. This is apparent through disallowing them from voting, using thugs and security sector personnel to terrify them off, unnecessary delays at voting stations, and non-supply of voting material. An article by Times Magazine on 1 March highlighted the strategy and structure of violence and theft in Nigerias elections. According to the Head of a womens rights non-profit organisation called TechHerNG, who has been monitoring Nigerias elections since 2011, this strategy and structure of violence and theft were also evident in the recent elections, which resulted in the final outcome. The ECOWAS Electoral Observer Mission reported the late arrival of polling officials, delay in delivery of voting materials and delivery of the wrong voting materials at various polling stations. Reports from Channels News provide first-hand accounts of armed men shooting in the air in an active voting ward and burning ballot boxes, which means that some votes were not counted. News reports by Africa News and DW News present scattered episodes of violence at various polling stations across the country, with armed men stealing ballot boxes in efforts to disrupt the process and prevent people from voting. According to political analysts, there have been disruptions like these but on a larger scale in previous elections.

What is most alarming is that these characteristics have become well-established norms. These norms are captured by the winner-takes-all mentality that defines Nigerias elections, where individuals use all their resources and networks to win by all means, and violence is used through physical attacks on party candidates, their supporters, campaigns and voting sites. All of Nigerias elections since 1999 have been characterised by violence, delays, and allegations of fraud. The practice of vote buying includes buying voter cards from individuals to be used by someone else on voting day, the selling of empty voter registration cards to politicians from opposition parties and the use of funds (alleged to be ranging from $16 million to $25 million) in buying votes, as was the case during the 2015 primaries. The practice of party switching can be deemed as an inescapable reality of Nigerian politics as it is significant in winning or retention the of power, thus it is a highly common practice during elections. Norms here mean that elections in Nigeria will continue to be carried out in dishonest, elitist, and exclusionary manners  all of which are the antitheses of true democracy and fair elections. It is almost as if the expectation and the resulting action is that political parties, along with their party representatives and constituents, will continue to engage in elections fraud and rigging because it has become a regular way of practicing politics in the country. For the most part, Nigerias elections have always delivered on reports of elections rigging, manipulation of votes, threatening and disruptions of voting sites and paying whatever amount is needed to shift the votes to favour the highest bidder.

The bright light in all of this is the commitment of the Nigerian people to the elections process. This was evident in the longest voter turnout ever and their efforts, commitment, and peer support in obtaining their permanent voter cards (PVC), waiting to vote for hours on end and in spite of violent disruptions, waiting to see the votes counted and loudly questioning every dishonest action or activity. They have to contend with those who work aggressively and at all costs to manipulate, rig and win the elections, no matter what. These others show they have no respect or regard for the elections process and for the democracy they promote so loudly in public.

Elections can be an important and true reflection of the peoples ability to choose if:

There are new political parties that are not just a reflection of ethno-religious entities, but which present candidates that have proven records of performance, have shown fair and transparent use of funds, held records of ethical behaviour and practices, and had the right skills and abilities to perform their roles effectively;

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is reviewed and composed of individuals who are not biased, and decentralised structures (in partnership with civil society and an unbiased media) that will ensure elections are devoid of influences that manipulate the vote. INEC must act immediately on the evidence of rigging;

There is a zero-tolerance policy for vote manipulation, thuggery and elections rigging. There should be speedy and rapid prosecution with dire consequences;

There are grassroots-led processes of unlearning the current practice of elections and newer processes of learning how elections should be conducted as they are meant to be: fair, organised, safe, inclusive, egalitarian, and above-board. This involves educating and equipping the general population on their rights and responsibilities as citizens;

Political parties are held to the highest standards of ethical and appropriate electoral behaviours. The use of inciting language, corrupt practices, thuggery, and any other actions that jeopardise the election process should not be allowed or tolerated. Party members and representatives should be held accountable for their corrupt activities and inflammatory language before, during and after elections.

As long as elections are not conducted as fairly as possible in their entirety: involving a process where citizens decide who to vote for without manipulation, fear or force, Nigerias false democracy will become the reality for many years to come. Elections should be simply what they are: that people vote, and their choices serve them. They should not be spaces for haggling, disruption, chaos, triviality, and further corruption.

Dorcas Ettang is a senior lecturer in political science at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. She holds a PhD in Conflict Transformation and Peace Studies.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. Former IDPs will be returned to Lachin city ahead of time, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev said in an interview with Azerbaijan Television in the Salyan district, Trend reports.

"I said some time ago that we would return the former IDPs to the city of Lachin by the end of this year. Well, I can say with full confidence today that we will achieve that in the summer months. So we are doing this work ahead of schedule," President Ilham Aliyev said.
Reader survey As a reader of PREMIUM TIMES, your opinion matters. Please take our survey to help us better understand the values and preferences of our readers. Your feedback will give us valuable insights into how we can tailor the different types of content we offer to meet your needs. The survey should only take about 6-8 minutes to complete. Click here to take it.

What played out last weekend in Adamawa State during the supplementary gubernatorial poll can best be described as attempts by desperate politicians to subvert democracy and undermine the will of the people. The electoral heist must be totally condemned in all its ramifications.

In the show of shame in broad daylight, the whole world was shocked to see the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Hudu Yunusa-Ari, on television illegally announcing Senator Aishat Binani Dahiru, the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), as the winner of the election when results from 10 local councils were still being expected. How low can we get?

The electoral law does not recognise RECs to collate and announce election results in the states; that is the job of the Returning Officer. So, what Yunusa-Ari did was brazen, illegal and it could only have been inspired by an animal boldness of the worst kind.

Instead of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) summoning Yunusa-Ari to Abuja, he should have been arrested in Yola immediately and made to face the full wrath of the law. What happened next is even more shocking: Senator BInani, whom Yunusa-Ari declared illegally as the winner, read an acceptance speech, thanking the people of Adamawa State for electing her.

That was a lie from the pit of hell; she was not elected because she did not win the election. Binani is desperate to set a record as the first female governor in Nigeria but she has to be properly elected  not through the backdoor, subterfuge or illegality.

We may have seen bad behaviours displayed by politicians in the past but what Senator Binani and her enablers did at a time we are trying to improve on the electoral process takes the cake. How far will politicians go in the theatre of the absurd?

On top of this travesty, Binani approached a High Court in Abuja, seeking a judicial review in an attempt to stop INEC from voiding her illegal declaration as the winner of the governorship poll as announced by Yunusa-Ari.

I have never seen anything like this before. If we truly want to be honest with ourselves, politicians are the biggest threats to our democracy.

What the Adamawa REC and Binani have done should come with consequences; otherwise it will become a standard playbook for other politicians who do not have any sense of shame or higher purpose.

Because of Yunusa-Aris egregious conduct, another national commissioner deployed to Adamawa for the supplementary poll, was beaten black and blue and then stripped naked. It was clearly a case of the anger of the mob.

Yunusa-Ari appeared defiant on the day he made the illegal announcement in the presence of security personnel. He was confronted by onlookers in the room that he had no powers to announce the winner. He was also reminded that it was the holy month of Ramadan  the ninth month of the Muslim year, during which strict fasting, prayer and deep reflections are observed from dawn to sunset.

In his desperation, the Adamawa REC who has now been disowned by INEC set aside all the entreaties and spiritual injunctions. There must have been something in it for him to have taken such risk for a zero-sum game.

Before the supplementary governorship elections in Kebbi and Adamawa States, INEC had been in the eye of the storm. The reputation of the electoral umpire had taken severe beating arising from the previous elections in February and March.

INEC had the opportunity to redeem its image but, apparently, the likes of Yunusa-Ari with his gang of co-conspirators had other plans. There is now palpable tension in Adamawa State which could lead to a breakdown of law and order. This situation must be addressed immediately by the security agencies.

The position now is that INEC is working very hard to do damage control. Last Sunday, the electoral body announced that the REC illegally announced the winner which was declared null and void.

In order to calm frayed nerves, INEC suspended the collation of results and the supplementary election. INECs statement did not leave anyone in doubt. The attention of the Commission has been drawn to a purported declaration of a winner in the Adamawa Governorship election by the Resident Electoral Commissioner even when the process has not been concluded.

The action of the REC is a usurpation of the power of the Returning Officer. It is null and void and of no effect. Consequently, the collation of the results of the supplementary election is hereby suspended.

But INEC has a duty to the Adamawa people to conclude the process and announce the winner without further delay so that by 29 May, the winner would be inaugurated and sworn into office like his colleagues.

However, the facts of the matter must stand. Before the collation exercise was suspended on Saturday night, Binani was nowhere near winning the election as she was trailing Ahmadu Fintiri, the incumbent governor and candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). By this time, results from 10 local councils had been announced.

Nigerians should disregard the announcement by Yunusa-Ari and allow INEC to conclude the process. In the meantime, no one has told us where Mele Lamido, the Returning Officer, has been hiding; he just disappeared into thin air.

Was he part of the plot to sabotage the will of the people of Adamawa State? Could it be that the RO did not agree with the REC to announce Binani as the winner without results from all the 69 polling units?

The drama in Adamawa State happens in other states and it is a reflection of our inverted value system: we condone impunity without consequences and it has gone to great lengths to damage the moral fabric of society.

For example, why would a parent buy exam question papers for his/her children to gain undue advantage? The same parent will also join those accusing INEC of improper conduct of our elections. Isnt that hypocrisy?

This is the time INEC should bark and bite at the same time. It has acted well in this matter so far. After the meeting of its National Commissioners in Abuja which held on April 18 over the supplementary governorship election in Adamawa State, INEC resolved to write the Inspector General of Police for the immediate investigation and possible prosecution of Yunusa-Ari who, by the way, is a lawyer.

How can a lawyer superintend over such travesty and be the lead actor in a poorly scripted drama? What action is the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) going to take?

The electoral body will also write to Boss Mustapha, the secretary to the government of the federation (SGF), to inform President Muhammadu Buhari that his appointee, Yunusa-Ari, has been unworthy of the appointment as Adamawa State REC. His unwholesome behaviour should be reported by the SGF for further action.

We are all witnesses to the disgraceful conduct of politicians even in their parties where theres complete absence of internal democracy. The Labour Party has also joined APC and PDP in poor housekeeping manners because if you have been following the political developments in Imo State, Labour Party has two factions (Ikechukwu Ukaegbu and Chibutu Isiguzo factions laying claims to the ticket) in the run-up to the partys primary to elect its gubernatorial candidate.

With parallel primaries, the factions usually end up in court because politicians are generally bad losers  everyone wants to win. Hows that possible?

If party primaries are fraught with rigging and violence, what then should we expect at the state and national elections? Are they not the same people?

When the outcomes of our elections are poor, we are quick to blame INEC instead of desperate politicians and their supporters. What in the world was Yunusa-Ari thinking when he declared Binani as the winner of the Adamawa governorship poll? Was he expecting Nigerians to clap for him?

He should have emulated the Returning Officer in the Abia State gubernatorial election, Prof Nnennaya Oti, vice chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) which Alex Otti won. This amazing amazon refused to be intimidated even at the risk to her life; she stood her ground and the will of Abia voters prevailed.

But Yunusa-Ari couldnt because he sold his conscience for a mess of porridge.

Ehi Braimah is a public relations strategist and publisher/editor-in-chief of Naija Times.

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In the last millennium, Africa has been the site of some of the most egregious atrocities against humanity and the dignity that is supposed, at least in our time, to attach to it. First, there was the Trans-Saharan Slave Trade, the remnants of which are evincing a resurgence at the present time that ought to exercise our conscience in the extreme.

Then, there was the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade, the victims of which were treated like chaff by their own people who sold them, sometimes, for trinkets, to slavers who sought to turn them into chattel in the Americas.

The Black Lives Matter Movement is a sordid reminder to a forgetful world that Africa needs to take seriously, that the descendants of that chapter in human history that the UN once tried to characterise as a crime against humanity still dont have their humanity recognised, much less valued in what is now the country of their birth.

Following in the footsteps of those events was colonialism that had absolutely no redeeming dimension when it came to the humanity of its teeming African victims, which was degraded and whose lands were pillaged. Given these antecedents, we at PREMIUM TIMES are convinced that if there is one continent whose inhabitants, ruler and ruled alike, should be unstintingly exercised by the issue of human dignity and its protection, it should be Africa.

Yet, at the present time, when we look across Africa, it is very difficult to conclude that its inhabitants are seriously exercised by the exigency of human dignity. On the contrary, we regrettably witness rulers and the ruled continually evince zero concern, not to talk of investment in the inviolate dignity of the lowliest human in our continent.

These are the lenses through which PREMIUM TIMES views the recent law passed by the Ugandan parliament, and awaiting the assent of President Yoweri Museveni, which criminalises the mere identification as a gay person in Uganda. It can be considered an unfortunate reference and reflection of that passed into law in Nigeria under the President Goodluck Jonathan administration in 2014.

In this newer Ugandan iteration, not only is it criminal to engage in gay sexual relations, it is also, under this law, a crime to identify yourself as a gay or LGBTQ+ person, with this attracting a penalty of up to 20 years imprisonment. While the bill generally makes it illegal and bans homosexuality, it prescribes sanctions ranging from life imprisonment to the death penalty for what is defined as aggravated homosexuality, involving same-sex acts without consent or committed under duress. In the earlier Nigerian variant prohibiting gay or LGBTQ+ relationships, a penalty of 14 years imprisonment is prescribed for those found in breach of the law and a 10-year jail term for those who facilitate the union of gay persons.

Unfortunately, Uganda is merely the latest African country to demonstrate this terrible tendency to trifle with the inviolate dignity of the African person in its treatment of those of its citizens and other humans who happen to be homosexual.

READ ALSO:

The criminalisation of homosexuality never bodes well, immediately, for its targets, the individuals who are homosexual and whose very humanity and the respect due to it are thrown into jeopardy by this unnecessary law. Nor does it do so for the society that enacts it.

In an environment already saturated with antipathy towards homosexuals, a law criminalising it makes the lives of individual gay persons infinitely precarious. They become ever more vulnerable to blackmail, violence, domestic and external, discrimination in all areas of life and just a general diminution of their humanity and its pertinent dignity.

The society that enacts such a law becomes complicit in the violence and diminution of the humanity of a section of its citizenry. Indeed, that society tells the world that its homosexuals are permanent second-class citizens, given that what they are is what is being punished, rather than what they do. How anyone pretends that there can be any reasonable justification for this kind of law in a society that wants to be considered modern and committed to the doctrine of equal protection and equality of all before the law is what we at PREMIUM TIMES cannot fathom.

Yes, there are, even if unavailing, attempts at just. They mostly come down to (1) the so-called incompatibility of homosexuality with African culture and (2) the unnaturalness of homosexuality.

The earlier point can be easily dismissed. First, we refuse to believe that the idea of a singular African culture makes any sense, given the multiplicity of cultures abroad in a continent of 54 countries. Second, that we have countries such as South Africa, Botswana, Gabon, and Namibia, making room for their homosexuals to lead lives befitting their human status means that those who wish to say that homosexuality is not African must show either that these latter countries are not African or they have become afflicted with disease that has separated them from their Africanity.

Third, just as with child marriages and other forms of child abuse or gender-based discrimination that reduces women to non- or second-class citizens, no culture should be allowed to eviscerate the inviolate dignity of any human to protect itself. Human dignity, now that we know it and value it, must never again be trumped by cultural preferences. What is ironic is that the culture in the name of which Africans and their rulers are willing to trash the dignity of their fellow humans is Christianity: they are forever intoning, God created Adam and Eve, not Adam and Steve. They conveniently ignore the fact that at some point in the past, this same scripture was used to justify the enslavement, later colonisation and, ultimately, dehumanisation of our forebears. What is more, these are the same people who, in another breath, harp on the foreignness of Christianity. None of these alibis strikes us as reasonable.

The notion of the unnaturalness of homosexuality is no less vulnerable to dismissal. Homosexual behaviour is widely distributed in the animal kingdom; that is no longer an issue where people are actually curious about nature and do not depend on folk knowledge framed by culture and glibly accepted as well-founded. Such is the tragic display of ignorance masquerading as knowledge when, in his attempt at justifying his homophobia, President Yoweri Museveni called it a deviance from nature, in an address to the nation as part of the campaign for this law. And he is known to have held a similar opinion when versions of the anti-homosexuality bill came up in the Ugandan parliament in 2009 and 2014.

A call for the non-criminalisation of the rights of gay or LGBTQ+ persons is not an advocacy for its adoption by those who do not subscribe to these orientations. It is however a demand fundamental to a holistic notion of human rights, which should not be considered as open to being cherry-picked according to relative preferences. This is an advocacy against laws that promote attacks on or denial of the humanity of gay and LGBTQ+ persons anywhere in the African continent.

As such, PREMIUM TIMES is calling for a cancellation of this law in Uganda, and the abrogation of similar laws across the continent, including here in Nigeria. They have no place in any society that claims to be invested in and promotive of the inviolate dignity of its members. Its time Africans stopped pandering to prejudice of any and every kind.

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The Ondo State Government has given the Olukare of Ikare Akoko, Kadiri Momoh, 24 hours to reverse his appointment of a new chief Imam for the towns central Mosque.

The appointment of the acting chief imam was in defiance of the recognition of the substantive imam by the state government.

The state government on Monday gave Mr Momoh the ultimatum to reverse the appointment or be dethroned.

Factions of the Muslim community in Ikare Akoko have been fighting over the leadership of the central mosque since last year.

The Olukare sacked the chief Imam, Abubakar Muhammed, over some allegations had the decision has unsettled the community, leading to the disruption of normal worship at the central mosque.

The Olukare is seen as the leader of the Muslim community in the town.

But Mr Muhammed enjoys the backing of the state government and the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs in the state.

The state government says the appointment of an acting chief Imam threatens peace in the community and is an affront on its efforts to resolve the crisis in the town.

In a letter on Monday signed by the Acting Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, and addressed to the Olukare, the state government described the appointment of acting chief imam as unfortunate especially at the time it was trying to resolve the crises in the ancient town.

This alleged action, to say the least, is most unfortunate and least expected of a traditional ruler who is desirous of a lasting peace in his domain, the statement notes.

READ ALSO:

That the state government is embarrassed by this decision is to say the obvious and will take serious exception to this action at this critical time in the history of Ikare.

The Olukare was then ordered to tender an unreserved apology to the state government for his action.

Also, the government directed the acting chief Imam to stop parading himself as the Chief Imam of Ikare-Akoko forthwith, stressing that it recognises only the incumbent.

The government also banned any prayer gathering or congregation anywhere during the forthcoming Eld-el-Fitri in Ikare-Akoko.

It also warned that no congregation or gathering of any kind should hold or take place in Olukares Palace henceforth.

The government then ordered the Olukare to, as a matter of deliberate policy, maintain peace in the whole of Ikare-Akoko otherwise he would be held responsible for any breakdown of law and order in the area.

Besides the leadership crisis in the central mosque, there is also a dispute between the Olukare and the Owa-Ale, Adeleke Adedoyin, the two monarchs heading different sections of Ikare.

With the elevation of the Owa-Ale to the first class cadre last year by the state government, the rivalry assumed new dimension and threatened the peace in Ikare.

Intermittent clashes had forced the government to impose curfews and shut down schools. The government had vowed to keep the central Mosque locked until the factions embrace peace.

The incumbent Chief Imam was turbaned 27 years ago and had led the mosque since then until the elevation of the Owa -Ale.

He said those against him were opposed to the policies of the state government.

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The Amotekun Corps in Osun has secured the release of a man kidnapped from a Fulani settlement at Ago-Igbira in Ila-Orangun area of the state.

The Amotekun commander in the state, Bashir Adewinmbi, a retired army brigadier-general, made this known in a statement on Tuesday in Osogbo.

Mr Adewinmbi said the victim, Muhammed Jubril, was released when the local security outfit closed in on the abductors.

According to him, the abductors bolted and left behind the victim at about 8 p.m. on Monday, when they sighted some operatives of Amotekun.

The victim was held hostage in the forest between Agbamu and Arandun villages, a forest on the boundary between Osun and Kwara states.

Amotekun was combing the forest based on intelligence report, and as our operatives were closing in on the suspects, they ran away, leaving their victim behind, he said

Mr Adewinmbi said that the victim had been reunited with his family without paying ransom, and added that investigation was continuing to arrest the kidnappers.

He said the Seriki Fulani of Ago-Igbira commended and appreciated the efforts of the Amotekun operatives for the release of their son.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Muhammad was abducted from their settlement on Wednesday, 12 April at about 1.40a.m., where one Hassan Jubril was killed.

(NAN)

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. We will soon lay the foundation of the second large residential compound in Shusha, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev said in an interview with Azerbaijan Television in the Salyan district, Trend reports.

"The first residential compound is being successfully built in the city of Shusha. We will soon lay the foundation of the second large residential compound, i.e. a project consisting of many houses.

The construction of residential buildings in the cities of Aghdam, Fuzuli and Zangilan is going according to plan. Preparations are underway in the cities of Kalbajar and Jabrayil," President Ilham Aliyev said.
DSM AND FIRMENICH MERGER OF EQUALS TO SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETE 8 MAY 2023

This is a press release by DSM-Firmenich AG (DSM-Firmenich) in connection with the voluntary public exchange offer by DSM-Firmenich for all the issued and outstanding ordinary shares in the share capital of Koninklijke DSM N.V. (DSM) (each such share, a DSM Ordinary Share) (the Exchange Offer). The Exchange Offer is not being made, and the DSM Ordinary Shares will not be accepted for purchase from or on behalf of any holder of DSM Ordinary Shares (a DSM Shareholder), in any jurisdiction in which the making of the Exchange Offer or acceptance thereof would not be in compliance with the securities or other laws or regulations of such jurisdiction or would require any registration, approval or filing with any regulatory authority not expressly contemplated by the terms of the offering circular in relation to the Exchange Offer dated 22 November 2022 (the Offering Circular).

KAISERAUGST, Switzerland, and HEERLEN, Netherlands, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- DSM-Firmenich hereby announces that the listing of and first trading in ordinary shares in its share capital (DSM-Firmenich Ordinary Shares) on Euronext Amsterdam commenced today, 18 April 2023, after the Exchange Offer was declared unconditional on 17 April 2023.

Geraldine Matchett and Dimitri de Vreeze, DSM-Firmenich Co-CEOs, said: "This is a momentous day, marking the final step before we can bring together one of the largest creation communities in the industry, unlocking new opportunities for customers, and positioning us to deliver enhanced long-term shareholder value, sustainably. We appreciate the overwhelming support that we've received from our shareholders throughout this process, and now look forward with excitement to completing the merger with Firmenich in early May 2023. Together, we will establish the leading innovation partner in nutrition, health, and beauty."

DSM-Firmenich Ordinary Shares are trading under the symbol "DSFIR" and the ISIN code is CH1216478797.

Post-Closing Acceptance Period for DSM Shareholders

DSM Shareholders who have not yet tendered their DSM Ordinary Shares still have the opportunity to do so under the same terms and conditions applicable to the Exchange Offer during a Post-Closing Acceptance Period starting on 18 April 2023 at 09:00 CEST and ending on 28 April 2023 at 17:40 CEST. DSM Shareholders who do not tender their DSM Ordinary Shares during the Post-Closing Acceptance Period may become subject to certain (tax and other) implications with their continued shareholding in DSM. DSM shares will continue to trade in parallel to DSM-Firmenich shares on Euronext Amsterdam during this period.

Firmenich Contribution

The business of Firmenich International SA (Firmenich) will be contributed to DSM-Firmenich on 8 May 2023, thereby completing the transactions contemplated by the merger of equals between DSM and Firmenich. Additional information on the Firmenich Contribution is included in section 13.1 (The Transactions) of the Offering Circular.

Delisting

After the Post-Closing Acceptance Period, remaining DSM Shareholders will be subject to either the Buy-Out or the Post-Offer Merger and Liquidation as described in the Offer Circular. Additional information on the Buy-Out is included in section 14.19 (Statutory buy-out) of the Offering Circular and additional information on the Post-Offer Merger and Liquidation is included in section 14.20 (Post-Offer Merger and Liquidation) of the Offering Circular.

DSM and DSM-Firmenich will start the procedures to delist the DSM Ordinary Shares as soon as possible after the Post-Closing Acceptance Period.

Dividend

DSM-Firmenich will convene an extraordinary general meeting of shareholders by the end of June 2023 to request its shareholders to approve a dividend to its shareholders of 423m in total, representing approximately 1.60 per DSM-Firmenich Ordinary Share.

Board of Directors appointment

Dr. Sze Cotte-Tan (Singaporean national) has been appointed as an independent director and the twelfth member of DSM-Firmenich's experienced board of directors, effective 1 May 2023.

With more than 25 years' industry experience in food and nutrition spanning Asia Pacific and Europe, the appointment of Sze will strengthen DSM-Firmenich's board of directors in the areas of science & innovation and sustainability. Her previous executive roles include EVP and CTO of CJ CheilJedang, a South Korean food conglomerate and, prior to that, MD and Centre Head of Nestle R&D, Singapore. A food scientist by training, Sze brings a wealth of knowledge in the areas of product and process mastership, consumer and sensory science, and organisation change management.

Sze is currently Adjunct Professor of Singapore Institute of Technology and sits in various advisory committees including for venture capital fund VisVires New Protein (VVNP), Singapore Manufacturing, Trade and Connectivity, and the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR). Sze holds a PhD in Food Science from the University of Leeds (UK) and an MBA from the Simon Business School, University of Rochester (USA).

The full composition of DSM-Firmenich's board of directors is available at www.dsm-firmenich.com.

Home member state declaration

As a newly listed issuer, DSM-Firmenich declares that the Netherlands is its "home member state" for purposes of its disclosure obligations under the EU Transparency Directive (Directive 2004/109/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 December 2004 on the harmonization of transparency requirements in relation to information about issuers whose securities are admitted to trading on a regulated market and amending Directive 2001/34/EC).

Announcements

Announcements in relation to the Exchange Offer are issued by means of a press release. Any joint press release issued by DSM-Firmenich, DSM and Firmenich is made available on the website of DSM-Firmenich (www.dsm-firmenich.com).

Subject to any applicable requirements of the applicable laws and without limiting the manner in which DSM-Firmenich, DSM and Firmenich may choose to make any public announcement, DSM-Firmenich, DSM and Firmenich will have no obligation to communicate any public announcement other than as described in the Offering Circular.

Further information

Capitalised terms used but not defined herein are defined in the Offering Circular. This announcement contains selected, condensed information regarding the Exchange Offer and does not replace the Offering Circular. The information in this announcement is not complete and additional information is contained in the Offering Circular. A digital copy of the Offering Circular is available on the website of DSM-Firmenich (www.dsm-firmenich.com/corporate/investors/merger-information/merger-documents/).

General restrictions

The Exchange Offer is being made in and from the Netherlands with due observance of such statements, conditions and restrictions as are included in the Offering Circular. DSM-Firmenich reserves the right to accept any tender under the Exchange Offer, which is made by or on behalf of a DSM Shareholder, even if it has not been made in the manner set out in the Offering Circular.

The distribution of the Offering Circular and/or the making of the Exchange Offer in jurisdictions other than the Netherlands may be restricted and/or prohibited by law. In particular, subject to certain exceptions, the Offering Circular is not for general circulation in the United States. The Exchange Offer is not being made, and the DSM Ordinary Shares will not be accepted for purchase from or on behalf of any DSM Shareholder, in any jurisdiction in which the making of the Exchange Offer or acceptance thereof would not be in compliance with the securities or other laws or regulations of such jurisdiction or would require any registration, approval or filing with any regulatory authority not expressly contemplated by the terms of the Offering Circular. Persons obtaining the Offering Circular are required to take due note and observe all such restrictions and obtain any necessary authorisations, approvals or consents (to the extent applicable). Outside of the Netherlands, no actions have been taken (nor will actions be taken) to make the Exchange Offer possible in any jurisdiction where such actions would be required. In addition, the Offering Circular has not been filed with nor recognised by the authorities of any jurisdiction other than the Netherlands. Neither DSM-Firmenich, nor DSM, nor Firmenich, nor any of their advisers accept any liability for any violation by any person of any such restriction. Any person (including, without limitation, custodians, nominees and trustees) who forwards or intends to forward the Offering Circular or any related document to any jurisdiction outside the Netherlands should carefully read section 16 (Restrictions) and section 17 (Important Information) of the Offering Circular before taking any action. The release, publication or distribution of the Offering Circular and any documentation regarding the Exchange Offer, the making of the Exchange Offer or the issuance and offering of the DSM-Firmenich Ordinary Shares in jurisdictions other than the Netherlands may be restricted by law and therefore persons into whose possession the Offering Circular comes should inform themselves about and observe such restrictions. Any failure to comply with any such restrictions may constitute a violation of the law of any such jurisdiction.

United States of America

Unless otherwise determined by DSM-Firmenich, the Exchange Offer is not being, and will not be, made, directly or indirectly, in or into, or by the use of the mails of, or by any means or instrumentality (including, without limitation, telephonically or electronically) of, interstate or foreign commerce of, or of any facilities of a national securities exchange of, the United States except to DSM Shareholders who (i) are "qualified institutional buyers" as such term is defined in Rule 144A under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the U.S. Securities Act, and each such person, a QIB) and (ii), to DSM-Firmenich's satisfaction (in its sole discretion), have duly completed and returned to DSM-Firmenich a letter confirming that it is a QIB and agreeing to certain transfer restrictions applicable to the DSM-Firmenich Ordinary Shares (a U.S. Investor Letter) available from DSM-Firmenich (each an Eligible U.S. Holder). Accordingly, to be eligible to receive DSM-Firmenich Ordinary Shares under the Exchange Offer, each DSM Shareholder that is a U.S. Person and that is a QIB must make their acceptance known through their custodian, bank or stockbroker by executing and delivering a U.S. Investor letter to such custodian or intermediary no later than 17:40 hours CEST on the Acceptance Closing Date. The custodian, bank or stockbroker may set an earlier deadline for communication by DSM Shareholders in order to permit the custodian, bank or stockbroker to communicate its acceptances to the Settlement Agent (ABN AMRO) in a timely manner. Accordingly, Eligible U.S. Holders holding DSM Ordinary Shares through a financial intermediary should comply with the dates communicated by such financial intermediary, as such dates may differ from the dates and times noted in the Offering Circular.

The form of a U.S. Investor Letter will be distributed to custodians, nominees and other financial intermediaries to distribute to those they hold for in due course and is also available to QIBs from DSM-Firmenich. Any U.S. Person who is not a QIB, or in respect of whom no U.S. Investor Letter is received before 17:40 hours CEST on the Acceptance Closing Date, will be a Restricted Shareholder and will be treated as set out under section 14.35 (Notice to DSM Shareholders in certain jurisdictions) of the Offering Circular.

The DSM-Firmenich Ordinary Shares have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act or any other applicable law of the United States and accordingly, the DSM-Firmenich Ordinary Shares may not be reoffered, resold or transferred, directly or indirectly, in or into the United States except pursuant to an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act.

Any DSM Shareholder located in the United States at the time of the Transactions will be required to make certain representations, warranties and undertakings in respect of their status as QIB (the QIB Confirmations), in order to receive the DSM-Firmenich Ordinary Shares on the Post-Closing Acceptance Settlement Date.

If a beneficiary to DSM Ordinary Shares located in the United States is unable to make the QIB Confirmations on behalf of itself or the person on whose behalf such DSM Ordinary Shares are held, any DSM-Firmenich Ordinary Shares allotted to such person will instead be transferred to a sales agent, and such DSM-Firmenich Ordinary Shares will be sold on his, her or its behalf with the proceeds being remitted to such person within five days of the Settlement Date, for DSM-Firmenich Ordinary Shares allotted in exchange for DSM Ordinary Shares tendered during the Acceptance Period, or within five days of the Post-Closing Acceptance Settlement Date, for DSM-Firmenich Ordinary Shares allotted in exchange for DSM Ordinary Shares tendered during any Post-Closing Acceptance Period.

Additional information is included in section 16.1 (United States of America) of the Offering Circular.

Forward looking statements

Certain statements in this press release other than statements of historical facts are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on DSM-Firmenich's current beliefs and projections and on information currently available to DSM-Firmenich. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond DSM-Firmenich's control and all of which are based on its current beliefs and expectations about future events. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "believe", "expect", "may", "will", "seek", "would", "could", "should", "intend", "estimate", "plan", "assume", "predict", "anticipate", "annualised", "goal", "target", "potential", "continue", "hope", "objective", "position", "project", "risk" or "aim" or the highlights or negatives thereof or other variations thereof or comparable terminology, or by discussions of DSM-Firmenich's strategy, short-term and mid-term objectives and future plans that involve risks and uncertainties.

Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties and speak only as of the date they are made. Except as required by applicable law, DSM-Firmenich does not undertake and it expressly disclaims any duty to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statement in this press release, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Such forward-looking statements are based on current beliefs, assumptions, expectations, estimates and projections of the Directors in office at the time of this press release and DSM-Firmenich's management, public statements made by it, present and future business strategies and the environment in which DSM-Firmenich will operate in the future. By their nature, they are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties, which could cause DSM-Firmenich's actual results and future events to differ materially from those implied or expressed by forward-looking statements. The DSM Shareholders and other prospective investors are advised to read section 2 (Risk Factors) of the Offering Circular for a more complete discussion of the factors that could affect the DSM-Firmenich's future performance and the industry in which DSM-Firmenich operates. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialise, or should any of the assumptions underlying the above or other factors prove to be incorrect, DSM-Firmenich's actual results of operations or future financial condition could differ materially from those described herein as currently anticipated, believed, estimated or expected. In light of the risks, uncertainties and assumptions underlying the above factors, the forward-looking events described in the Offering Circular may not occur or be realised. Additional risks not known to DSM-Firmenich or that DSM-Firmenich does not currently consider material could also cause the forward-looking events discussed in the Offering Circular not to occur.

For more information, please contact:

DSM-Firmenich investor relations enquiries:

Email: dsm-firmenich.investors@dsm.com

DSM-Firmenich media enquiries:

Email: dsm-firmenich.media@dsm.com

Transaction website

Please visit www.dsm-firmenich.com for additional materials on the transactions contemplated by the merger of equals between DSM and Firmenich.

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1829134/DSM_Firmenich_Logo.jpg

SOURCE DSM-Firmenich
The Natural Diamond Council continues to promote transparency by releasing analysis addressing the myths and misconceptions about the diamond industry.

LONDON, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Natural Diamond Council , the authoritative resource on natural diamonds, has released its 2023 analytical report entitled, Diamond Facts: Addressing myths and misconceptions about the diamond industry. Through this report, the Natural Diamond Council (NDC) has set out to address misinformation about both natural diamonds and laboratory-grown diamonds.

Rough natural diamond Credit: Natural Diamond Council Photographer: Leo Bieber

"In an age where consumers are more inquisitive and enlightened than ever, they wish to know about the values and responsible business practices from the companies and indeed the wider industry from which they are purchasing," says David Kellie, CEO of the NDC. "At the Natural Diamond Council, we want to support consumers in taking informed decisions by providing information transparently."

The report tackles common misconceptions about the diamond industry. Examples of facts from the report include:

Highlight: Laboratory-grown diamonds can be detected from natural diamonds.

Supporting Facts:

All laboratory-grown diamonds can be detected using professional verification instruments.

Mass-produced in just a few weeks, unlike the billions of years it takes for a natural diamond to form under the earth's surface, laboratory-grown diamonds exhibit specific growth-related features and patterns.

Highlight: Not all laboratory-grown diamonds are sustainable.

Supporting Facts:

Laboratory-grown diamonds replicate the natural diamond creation process which requires a mass amount of electricity, mostly from the national grid.

Over 60% of laboratory-grown diamonds are mass-produced in China and India where 63% and respectively 74% of grid electricity results from coal.

and where 63% and respectively 74% of grid electricity results from coal. The manufacturing of laboratory-grown diamonds can require temperatures similar to 20% of the temperature of the Sun's surface.

Highlight: The process of natural diamond formation means that they are inherently rare. They are a finite natural resource.

Supporting Facts:

Formation takes place across the span of millions, sometimes billions, of years and occurs in limited zones of the earth's mantle at extreme temperatures and pressures.

Global natural diamond recovery peaked in 2005 and has decreased by over 30% in the last 16 years.

The annual recovery of 1 carat diamonds is equivalent in volume to an exercise ball.

Highlight: Laboratory-grown diamonds have experienced significant price depreciation in recent years.

Supporting Facts:

From 2016 to 2023, the average price of a 1.5 carat laboratory-grown diamond has decreased by over 74%.

Whilst the natural diamond prices have also fluctuated, over the last 35 years, on average, they have risen by 3% per annum.

Highlight: Ethical sourcing is a priority for the natural diamond industry.

Supporting Facts:

Under the Kimberley Process, mandated by the United Nations and the World Trade Organization, the trading of rough diamonds is strictly regulated to ensure it is conflict-free.

Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) warrants responsible sourcing through third party audited certifications.

Brands, retailers, and jewellers are increasingly implementing ethical sourcing protocols and policies bringing transparency to their supply chains.

Highlight: Natural diamonds help protect the biodiversity over an area equivalent to New York City, Chicago, Washington D.C., and Las Vegas combined. This is close to four times the land used by NDC member companies for natural diamond recovery, globally.

Supporting Facts:

De Beers Group, a leading diamond company, is partnering with Kelp Blue, exploring kelp's potential to store carbon, whilst improving marine health.

The Diamond Route is a network established by De Beers Group to protect critical wildlife habitats in South Africa and Botswana .

Highlight: Natural Diamonds benefit the countries from which they originate. The natural diamond industry supports the livelihood of 10 million people worldwide.

Supporting Facts:

Up to 80% of rough diamond value remains with local communities in the form of local purchasing, employment benefits, social programs, investment in infrastructure as well as the taxes, royalties and dividends paid from the industry to respective governments.

For NDC members, 85% of all procurement is local.

In Canada , the natural diamond industry contributes to 24% of total GDP in the Northwest Territories , $17 billion went toward (NWT) businesses and $7.5 billion to Indigenous owned (NWT) businesses.

For additional facts about the diamond industry where topics including traceability, stockpiling and other misconceptions are addressed visit: https://www.naturaldiamonds.com/diamondfacts/ .

The findings of this analysis have been derived from a thorough review of a wide range of secondary research conducted by globally respected third-party organizations. Industry experts and independent sustainability advisors were also consulted on the topics covered.

About Natural Diamond Council

The Natural Diamond Council (NDC) inspires and informs consumers about the incredible world of natural diamonds through its Only Natural Diamonds platform. The platform is the authoritative publisher on all things natural diamonds including celebrities and pop culture, epic diamonds and jewellery trends, engagements and weddings, and diamond buying guides. The NDC supports the integrity of the natural diamond industry by providing transparency and insight on the progress of this sector and its commitments to further betterment. NDC is a global organization whose members' operations span four continents and ten countries including Canada, South Africa, and Botswana. Their operations support the livelihood of 10 million industry employees and their families around the world. The NDC operates in the US, China, India, UAE, and Europe. For more information, please visit https://www.naturaldiamonds.com/ .

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2056873/Rough_Natural_Diamond.jpg

SOURCE Natural Diamond Council
The luxury boutique hotel will open by Q4 2023 with 35 guest rooms

RCU names GHM to operate the hotel under The Chedi brand

RCU is carefully uplifting several existing heritage buildings, including an old railway station, Hegra Fort, and surrounding structures, restoring them to their original grandeur

ALULA, Saudi Arabia, April 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Surrounded by awe-inspiring human and natural heritage, The Chedi Hegra will be the first hotel to welcome guests to a uniquely authentic luxury experience deep in the ancient Nabataean site in north-west Saudi Arabia. RCU has selected luxury hotel management company GHM to operate the hotel as The Chedi Hegra.

The Chedi Hegra Fort The Chedi Hegra Guest Room The Chedi Hegra Restaurant The Chedi Hegra Water Basin

Situated within Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site and opening by Q4 2023, The Chedi Hegra will offer 35 bespoke guest rooms, each with its own distinct connection to the Hegra landscape, a breathtaking testimony of human expression within the natural environment.

RCU is building the hotel directly into several existing structures, including an old railway station and surrounding buildings, Hegra Fort, and others. Structural and exterior walls, some with historical mud-brick construction, are being preserved and integrated with modern architecture. The vast majority of the UNESCO World Heritage Site will remain untouched by construction and carefully preserved by RCU to maintain the integrity of Hegra's incredible human and natural heritage.

RCU has also ensured all design and construction efforts align with the Sustainability Charter for AlUla, including a light-touch tourism approach, imaginative infrastructure, planting of native flora, and an all-electric mobility system. Where possible, the project will use local construction materials and work with local businesses and labour, and the hotel is expected to create at least 120 jobs once fully operational.

The property will feature three fine-dining restaurants, a cafe, and a full-service spa and pool, with many of the buildings connected by an overhead art canopy focused on wind movement and natural light.

The on-site restaurants will each offer unique experiences for hotel guests and others visiting Hegra. One of the restaurants inside the old railway station will feature an exhibition of carefully preserved artefacts, including a fully-restored train, while another will sit within the Hegra Fort, and a third will feature unobstructed views from a sunken water basin seating area.

John Northen, RCU Vice President of Hotels & Resorts, said: "Sitting at the nexus of AlUla's living museum, The Chedi Hegra embodies the fulfilment of our Journey Through Time master plan with its deep respect for heritage, sustainable design features, and an authentic luxury experience that celebrates what makes AlUla a special destination for travellers seeking both comfort and adventure."

Tommy Lai, Chief Executive Officer of General Hotel Management Pte Ltd (GHM) said " GHM is thrilled to introduce this luxurious heritage boutique hotel that will offer authentic, unrivalled lifestyle experience deep within the ancient Nabataean site of Hegra. As the first hotel within Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site, we are committed to preserve the site's integrity while seamlessly integrating modern architecture and comforts. I am certain that guests will recognise and appreciate the value we place in minimising our environmental impact, through the sustainable efforts of the hotel, in addition to our dedication in conserving the legacy of Hegra  a true GHM hallmark of creating inspired spaces."

Noted for editors:

It is always AlUla / not Al-Ula

About the Royal Commission for AlUla

The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) was established by royal decree in July 2017 to preserve and develop AlUla, a region of outstanding natural and cultural significance in north-west Saudi Arabia. RCU's long-term plan outlines a responsible, sustainable, and sensitive approach to urban and economic development that preserves the area's natural and historic heritage while establishing AlUla as a desirable location to live, work, and visit. This encompasses a broad range of initiatives across archaeology, tourism, culture, education, and the arts, reflecting a commitment to meeting the economic diversification, local community empowerment, and heritage preservation priorities of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 programme.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2055472/The_Chedi_Hegra.jpg

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2055473/The_Chedi_Hegra.jpg

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2055474/The_Chedi_Hegra.jpg

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2055475/The_Chedi_Hegra.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1926109/3988332/Royal_Commission_AlUla_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Royal Commission for AlUla
Midwest emerging growth companies set to present in-person in Ann Arbor

ANN ARBOR, Mich., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Organizers of the Midwest Growth Capital Symposium (MGCS) announced today that Louis Cannon, MD, Founder and Senior Managing Director of Biostar Capital, and Dug Song, Co-Founder and President of the Song Foundation, will keynote the 2023 program. More than 300 entrepreneurs, researchers, investment professionals, and business executives are expected to attend the two-day venture investment conference.

The Midwest Growth Capital Symposium will return in person to Ann Arbor on May 23 & 24. Tweet this The Midwest Growth Capital Symposium returns to Ann Arbor for 2023.

For 2023, MGCS will include panel discussions on venture capital, technology, healthcare, acquisition, and more led by industry experts, as well as presentations from high-growth Midwest ventures. Featured panelists for MGCS include:

Pete Wilkins , Managing Director for Hyde Park Angels

, Managing Director for Hyde Park Angels Jeff Sloan , Angel Investor, CEO of Startup Nation, CEO of Aria Ventures

, Angel Investor, CEO of Startup Nation, CEO of Aria Ventures Alan Davis , Managing Director of Biostar Capital

, Managing Director of Biostar Capital Jake Cohen , Partner with Detroit Venture Partners and Co-founder of Signal Advisors

, Partner with Detroit Venture Partners and Co-founder of Signal Advisors Chin Weerapuli, NIL Advocate for University of Michigan Athletes

Athletes Michael Spath , Client Executive for Kapnick Insurance, Executive Director for A2 New Tech

, Client Executive for Kapnick Insurance, Executive Director for A2 New Tech Ashley Williams , Founder & CEO of RIZZARR

, Founder & CEO of RIZZARR Bill Baumel , Managing Director of the Ohio Innovation Fund

, Managing Director of the Ohio Innovation Fund Dr. Tom Shehab , Managing Partner of Arboretum Ventures

, Managing Partner of Arboretum Ventures Jing Liu , Executive Director of the Michigan Institute for Data Science

The growing ventures featured in the MGCS showcase span the life sciences, medical devices, agriculture/food, and tech industries. All featured companies will be seeking seed, Series A, or Series B funding. In addition to their on-demand virtual pitches, presenting companies will be in attendance to connect with potential investors.

"The goal from the onset of the Midwest Growth Capital Symposium is to bring together private growth companies and venture capital and private equity investment firms from all parts of the country," said David Brophy, founder of the Midwest Growth Capital Symposium and University of Michigan professor emeritus. "Since the beginning of the pandemic, VCs and other investors have been searching to make good deals with cutting-edge companies. The Symposium connects these investors with growing ventures that have an early track record of success  many that lack visibility as they are based in the Midwest."

The 2023 Symposium will return in person to Ann Arbor May 23 & 24. The Symposium will be held at the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan.

For more information on applying, attending, or sponsoring the symposium, please visit www.midwestgcs.com or email Hannah Burke [email protected] .

About the Midwest Growth Capital Symposium

The Midwest Growth Capital Symposium (MGCS) is the original university-based venture investment fair. First held in 1980, this decades-old event is the largest Midwest venture fair of its kind that brings together venture capital investors, angel investors, high-growth companies, university tech transfer officers and research faculty. The Symposium is presented by the Zell Lurie Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies at the University of Michigan Ross School of Business.

SOURCE Midwest Growth Capital Symposium
OREM, Utah, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The new PCI version 4.0 standard has been out for just over a year, yet many organizations are still unaware that there has been an update or are unsure of what the update entails.

The new SecurityMetrics PCI Guide explains the updates and changes to the PCI v. 4.0 standard and includes timelines so that organizations know when they need to be compliant with the new standard.

There are four major reasons for the PCI DSS v4.0 update:

Ensure the standard continues to meet the security needs of the payments industry Promote security as a continuous process Enhance validation methods and procedures Add flexibility and support of additional methodologies to achieve security

PCI DSS v4.0 may seem daunting, but it is actually an improved way to counteract the techniques used by threat actors. The SecurityMetrics PCI Guide is a great resource for organizations to prepare to become compliant with PCI v4.0.

The PCI Guide is an ongoing, collaborative effort, with recommendations and original research from the SecurityMetrics Audit, Penetration Testing, Forensics, Support, and Executive teams.

In addition to important information about PCI DSS version 4.0, the SecurityMetrics PCI Guide contains primary research on the latest security trends and statistics on security, best practices for organizations to keep their data secure, and IT checklists to make scoping and documentation easier.

The 2023 PCI DSS Guide has been updated to include:

2023 forensic data breach predictions

Tips for applying the PCI DSS in a cloud environment

Information on ecommerce attacks, including iFrame hacks

How to set up a PCI-compliant remote workforce setup

Interactive IT checklists for each requirement

Brand new PCI compliance trends and customer data

Tips and experiences from PCI Auditors (QSAs)

"Businesses who utilize the Guide to PCI DSS Compliance can better organize their compliance efforts and understand the way PCI compliance requirements affect cybersecurity. On top of that, the PCI Guide is a great training tool when assigning new resources to your PCI compliance effort," said SecurityMetrics VP of Assessments Gary Glover (CISSP, CISA, QSA.)

Download the 2023 SecurityMetrics Guide to PCI DSS Compliance here .

To learn more about SecurityMetrics, PCI DSS compliance , or for help with a PCI audit , please call 801.705.5656 or email [email protected].

For press inquiries, call 801.995.6516 or email [email protected].

About SecurityMetrics

SecurityMetrics secures peace of mind for organizations that handle sensitive data. They have tested over 1 million systems for data security and compliance. Industry standards don't keep up with the threat landscape, which is why they hold their tools, training, and support to a higher, more thorough standard of performance and service. Never have a false sense of security.

As an Approved Scanning Vendor , Qualified Security Assessor , Certified Forensic Investigator, and Managed Security provider, SecurityMetrics guides organizations through data security testing and compliance mandates (PCI, HIPAA, GDPR, HITRUST). SecurityMetrics has over 20 years of forensic investigations, penetration testing, vulnerability assessments, and compliance audits. The privately held company is headquartered in Orem, Utah where it maintains a Security Operations Center (SOC) and 24/7 multilingual technical support.

SOURCE SecurityMetrics, Inc.
Israel's leading annual life science conference and exhibition to be held on May 16-18, 2023, at the David InterContinental Hotel in Tel Aviv

TEL AVIV, ISRAEL, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The 21st Biomed Israel, the premier international Life Science and HealthTech conference in Israel, will take place on May 16-18, 2023, at the David InterContinental Hotel in Tel Aviv, Israel. The conference attracts over 6,000 industry leaders, scientists, engineers, physicians, and investors from over 45 countries. As in previous years, hundreds of Israeli life science companies will present and exhibit their innovative products and technologies.

Biomed Israel conference and exhibition (Photographer: Alexander Elman)

The event presents a unique opportunity for global healthcare and HealthTech leaders to experience Israel's innovative and vibrant life science and biomedical industry. For 21 consecutive years, Biomed Israel is the largest and leading meeting venue for healthcare professionals from Israel with their international colleagues and partners, who come together for three days of intensive networking to discover business opportunities and promote partnerships.

Co-Chaired by Ruti Alon, Founder and CEO of Medstrada, Ora Dar, PhD, Senior Expert, Medical Sciences and Health Innovation, and Nissim Darvish, MD, PhD, Managing General Partner, Eliraz Ventures, the conference will explore and aim to fuel the innovations and trends that are shaping the future of healthcare systems and life science.

"The first and foremost objective of Biomed Israel is to boost collaborations between the innovative HealthTech ecosystem in Israel and the global life science industry," said Ruti Alon. "Senior executives and delegations from multinationals, big pharma, medical devices, tech giants and international investors in the health industry come to Israel each May to "shop for" innovation in the field, in search for creative solutions, products and technologies, and the next big thing."

"The conference will highlight the best of what Israel has to offer in a variety of areas and indications that coincide with the current trends that are of interest to the global life science industry. In addition to recurring themes such as oncology and the impact of artificial intelligence on drug discovery and development, this year we have expanded the scope of topics to include also practical workshops in the fields of regulation and reimbursement. We are also focusing on prevention and looking into the future of health innovation, in the longevity and precision nutrition tracks, for example, and have included a plenary talk on quantum computing," concluded Ms. Alon.

The conference covers the entire scope of the life science industry, including biopharma/biotech, medical device, digital health, and diagnostic products and technologies, and will include the following sessions and workshops:

Longevity  How to Complete the Centenarian Decathlon? Do we Know Enough About the Brain to Treat Neurological Disorders?

Are Cancer Therapeutics Fulfilling the Promise?

Can we Successfully Diagnose and Guide Patients' Optimal Cancer Treatment?

AI Tapestry: Optimizing the Interaction of AI and Biopharma

Facts and Myths on Ex-Liver Drug Delivery and New Horizons to Cure Rare Disorders

Who Owns Health Decisions? The Changing Dynamics of Patient-Physician Relationships in the Digital Health Revolution

Robots Dancing with Humans in the Healthcare Systems and Homes

Are Medical Devices Still Relevant in the Context of New Biology?

Let Food be thy Medicine and Medicine be thy Food

How do we Make Academic Translation Medicine Replicable and Relevant?

BioConvergence  Everything That Rises Must Converge

High Pace Innovation in Dermatology & Medical Aesthetics

Ophthalmology, from R&D to Commercialization

Navigating Global Collaborations in Times of Uncertainty: Can we Turn Challenges into Growth Opportunities?

Workshop: Winners and Losers of Recent and Future Pricing Models. Leader: Formulary Insights

Workshop: Tectonic Regulatory Shifts and their Impacts (BioPharma and Medical Devices)

For plenary and keynote speakers

For heads of sessions

For preliminary agenda

For registration

Contact:

Tsipi Haitovsky

Global Media Liaison

Biomed Israel

Email: [email protected]

Tel: +972-52-598-9892

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2056642/Biomed_Israel_2023.jpg

SOURCE Biomed Israel
A teacher turned author aims to make learning fun for early readers with her historical fiction books.

FREEPORT, N.Y., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A typical day of hide-and-seek turns into a discovery of a lifetime when five friends are transported back in time after finding a secret clubhouse at the top of a sycamore tree. Dubbing themselves the Tree House Club, Ashley, Emma, Keith, Aaron, and Harry learn that events of the past didn't necessarily unfold the way they learned in school. In this magical book series, Find Me in Time, author L.T. Caton brings the young adventurers to their first stop: the time of Christopher Columbus.

Caton said, "As a student, I was not interested in history because I didn't learn about people of color or women. The historical perspectives often were from the dominant culture. My book series aims to allow students to learn different historical perspectives, often not explored in school, while having fun."

In her story, the treehouse has magical abilities that take Ashley and her friends to Guanahani in 1492 to witness Christopher Columbus arrive at his first stop on his voyage to the New World. The friends meet the kind Taino Lukku-Cairo tribespeople who welcome their new visitors with food and gifts.

It isn't long before the Taino chief, Tiburon, and the Tree House Club friends see three sailing ships approaching. With history on their side, the kids realize it is the famed explorer, Christopher Columbus, who quickly makes his claim for the Taino's native land for the Queen of Spain. The kids soon learn that their history books did not teach them lesser-known facts about Columbus, his greedy intentions in Guanahanior San Salvador, as he named itand his poor treatment of the humble Taino people. But the children's friendships with the Taino endanger their lives. Will the treehouse save them in time?

L.T. Caton masterfully recreates a fascinating point in our world's history with Find Me In Time: Meeting Columbus. Additional books in this entertaining series have the young adventurers exploring the time of the first lunar landing in 1961 and other historical highlights.

If you want more information about L.T. Caton and the Find Me in Time book series, contact [email protected] or visit www.findmeintime.com.

SOURCE Find Me In Time
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. Heydar Aliyev's lifework was to serve his people and state with honor, Colonel Elshad Isayev said within Trend News Agency's "Relevant with Sahil Karimli" project.

"Heydar Aliyev's exceptional services to the country will forever remain in the memory of the people. When Heydar Aliyev was appointed to a senior position in the security agencies, the personnel of the agencies were not very professional. Most of them were people who had completed ordinary training programs and did not have a higher education. Thanks to Heydar Aliyev, the issue of professional training for personnel was raised. National personnel started to be formed, and the Azerbaijani youth began rise in the ranks," Elshad Isayev said.

He added that during his time as the head of Azerbaijan, Heydar Aliyev achieved the comprehensive development and rise of the country.

"At the same time, Heydar Aliyev kept in his spotlight the special services of Azerbaijan. Our youth, whom Heydar Aliyev purposefully directed to study at various military schools of the USSR in those years, formed the personnel potential of our country during the independence years. These personnel still hold high positions in the security services, the army, and other important government structures," he said.

Elshad Isayev added that every step taken by Heydar Aliyev was aimed at ensuring the interests of the state, its people, and the country's future.

He stressed that the great leader Heydar Aliyev saved Azerbaijan with his wise leadership.

"With no prospects for the future, people pinned all their hopes on Heydar Aliyev. As soon as he came to power, he took control of the situation in all spheres. Stability was gradually established, the economy began to develop, army building started, and the country was saved," he said.
NEW YORK, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The adhesive films market size is forecasted to increase by USD 6,863.22 million from 2022 to 2027, at a CAGR of 5.69%, according to the recent market study by Technavio. The growth of the market depends on several factors, including the growth in the automotive industry, the rise in demand for adhesive films in APAC, and technological advances in the labels industry. This report entails various charts & data tables about market and segment sizes for a historic period (2017-2021) and forecast period (2023-2027). Download the Sample Report.

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Adhesive Films Market

Vendor Analysis

The adhesive films market report includes information on the key products and recent developments of leading vendors, including:

Adhesive Films Inc.: The company offers adhesive films such as AF 163 2, AF 147, and AF 325 LS White. Also, this segment focuses on manufacturing heat-activated thermoplastic adhesives films.

The company offers adhesive films such as AF 163 2, AF 147, and AF 325 LS White. Also, this segment focuses on manufacturing heat-activated thermoplastic adhesives films. ADHETEC: The company offers adhesive film solutions such as coatings and tapes.

The company offers adhesive film solutions such as coatings and tapes. Arkema Group: The company offers adhesive films such as industrial adhesive films.

The company offers adhesive films such as industrial adhesive films. Ashland Inc.: The company offers adhesive film solutions such as Bostik, coating resins, and Rheology addictives.

The company offers adhesive film solutions such as Bostik, coating resins, and Rheology addictives. Avery Dennison Corp.

Coveris Management GmbH

GRANITOL

H.B. Fuller Co.

Henkel AG and Co. KGaA

Hexcel Corp.

Master Bond Inc.

Mondi plc

Pontacol AG

Resonac Holdings Corp.

Rogers Corp.

Why Buy?

Add credibility to strategy

Analyzes competitor's offerings

Get a holistic view of the market

Get a significant profit margin with Technavio - Buy the Report

Key Benefits for Industry Players & Stakeholders 

The report offers information on the criticality of vendor inputs, including R&D, CAPEX, and technology.

It also provides detailed analyses of the market's competitive landscape and vendors' product offerings.

The report also provides a qualitative and quantitative analysis of vendors to help clients understand the wider business environment as well as the strengths and weaknesses of key market players. Data is qualitatively analyzed to categorize vendors as pure play, category-focused, industry-focused, and diversified; it is quantitatively analyzed to categorize vendors as dominant, leading, strong, tentative, and weak.

Get comprehensive market analysis backed by industry experts for exponential growth

strategies. Download the Sample Report Now!

Market Segmentation:

The market is segmented by application (tapes, labels, graphics, and others), end-user (packaging, aerospace, electrical and electronics, automotive and transportation, and others), and geography (APAC, North America, Europe, South America, and Middle East and Africa).

By application, the market growth will be significant in the tapes segment during the forecast period. An adhesive tape consists of a carrier material such as plastic film, paper, or foam, coated with an adhesive film and a release liner. The increasing demand for adhesive tapes in the medical field, including silicone, epoxy, and polyurethane-based adhesive tapes in the healthcare field will have a positive impact on the market growth.

By end-user, the market growth will be significant in the packaging segment during the forecast period. Industrial adhesive films are widely preferred for cargo packaging and assembly due to their ease of use in terms of flexibility, reduced curing time, and improved adhesion. In addition, the growing demand for short assembly times, carton sealing, and high adhesive strength in the production of corrugated boxes has led to a high consumption of adhesive films in the packaging industry. Growing consumer demand for packaged food is expected to boost market growth.

APAC will account for 53% of the market growth during the forecast period. Due to their strength, durability, and chemical resistance, adhesive films are widely used in various end-user industries such as packaging, construction, automotive, and personal care. It also increases the durability and strength of tapes and labels. These films are used as label layers for various packaging products such as food and beverages, consumer goods, and cosmetics. Organized retail in APAC could also have a positive impact on the food packaging industry. The rise of supermarkets and hypermarkets has contributed to the growth of organized retail. Therefore, the growing demand for labels that provide product information is expected to drive the demand for adhesive films during the forecast period.

Market Dynamics:

Key Drivers:

Growth in the automotive industry

Rise in demand for adhesive films in APAC

Technological advancements in the labels industry

Adhesive films are used to bond composites, nonwovens, and plastics in automotive applications due to their improved adhesion and durability. It is used in automotive components such as headliners, door panels, overhead systems, and seat inserts and is used to bond windshields, rearview mirrors, and exterior panels. Moreover, the use of adhesive films to join automotive parts eliminates the need for fasteners and reduces vehicle weight. The use of adhesive foils can reduce vehicle weight by approximately 30% compared to using mechanical fasteners. Such factors will increase market growth during the forecast period.

Major Trends:

Growing demand for bio-adhesive films

Increasing adoption of linerless tapes and labels.

Rising adoption of lightweight vehicles

Bioadhesive films are commonly used in biomedical medical applications. This is due to their excellent interface with in vivo fluids and tissues. Increasing innovation and product development in the use of bioadhesive films for medical applications, such as surgical tapes, surgical drapes, and wound closure tapes, is expected to have a positive impact on market growth during the forecast period.

Key Challenges:

Stringent regulations and policies

Threat of substitutes

Volatility in raw material prices

Stringent regulations by the EPA and Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) on the volatile organic compounds (VOC) content of adhesive films pose serious challenges to the market growth. For instance, in August 2013, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) imposed strict regulations on adhesives and sealants. Regulation 310 CMR 7.18 (30) prescribes a VOC limit for adhesive films for industrial and commercial applications. In addition, in California, authorities have strict regulations regarding the limit for VOC emission through different end-user industries. The state also has set 13 Air Pollution Control Districts (APCD) or Air Quality Management Districts (AQMD), each with its own limits for VOC for adhesive films. Such factors will hinder market growth during the forecast period.

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What are the key data covered in these adhesive films market report?

CAGR of the market during the forecast period

Detailed information on factors that will drive the growth of the Adhesive Films Market between 2023 and 2027

Precise estimation of the size of the Adhesive Films Market size and its contribution to the market in focus on the parent market

Accurate predictions about upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior

Growth of the Adhesive Films Market industry across APAC, North America , Europe , South America , and the Middle East and Africa

, , , and the and A thorough analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information about vendors

Comprehensive analysis of factors that will challenge the growth of Adhesive Films Market vendors.

Related Reports:

The micro perforated films market size is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 4.78% between 2022 and 2027. The market size is forecasted to increase by USD 264.31 million. The market is segmented by material (PE, PP, PET, and others), application (fresh fruits and vegetables, bakery and confectionary, ready-to-eat food, and others), and geography (APAC, North America , Europe , South America , and Middle East and Africa ).

size is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 4.78% between 2022 and 2027. The market size is forecasted to increase by USD 264.31 million. The market is segmented by material (PE, PP, PET, and others), application (fresh fruits and vegetables, bakery and confectionary, ready-to-eat food, and others), and geography (APAC, , , , and and ). The floor adhesive market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.44% between 2021 and 2026, and the market size is expected to increase by USD 1.53 billion . The market is segmented by end-user (residential, commercial, and industrial) and geography (APAC, North America , Europe , South America , and MEA).

Adhesive Films Market Scope Report Coverage Details Base year 2022 Historic period 2017-2021 Forecast period 2023-2027 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 5.69% Market growth 2023-2027 USD 6,863.22 million Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2022-2023 (%) 5.35 Regional analysis APAC, North America, Europe, South America, and Middle East and Africa Performing market contribution APAC at 53% Key countries US, China, Japan, Germany, and UK Competitive landscape Leading Vendors, Market Positioning of Vendors, Competitive Strategies, and Industry Risks Key companies profiled Adhesive Films Inc., Adhesives Research Inc., ADHETEC, Arkema Group, Ashland Inc., Avery Dennison Corp., Coveris Management GmbH, GRANITOL, H.B. Fuller Co., Henkel AG and Co. KGaA, Hexcel Corp., Master Bond Inc., Mondi plc, Pontacol AG, Resonac Holdings Corp., Rogers Corp., Specialty Adhesive Film Co. Inc., Toray TCAC Holding B.V., UPM Kymmene Corp., and 3M Co. Market dynamics Parent market analysis, Market growth inducers and obstacles, Fast-growing and slow-growing segment analysis, COVID-19 impact and recovery analysis and future consumer dynamics, and Market condition analysis for the forecast period. Customization purview If our report has not included the data that you are looking for, you can reach out to our analysts and get segments customized.

Browse through Technavio's Materials Market Reports

Table of contents:

1 Executive Summary

1.1 Market overview

Exhibit 01: Executive Summary  Chart on Market Overview



Exhibit 02: Executive Summary  Data Table on Market Overview



Exhibit 03: Executive Summary  Chart on Global Market Characteristics



Exhibit 04: Executive Summary  Chart on Market by Geography



Exhibit 05: Executive Summary  Chart on Market Segmentation by Application



Exhibit 06: Executive Summary  Chart on Market Segmentation by End-user



Exhibit 07: Executive Summary  Chart on Incremental Growth



Exhibit 08: Executive Summary  Data Table on Incremental Growth



Exhibit 09: Executive Summary  Chart on Vendor Market Positioning

2 Market Landscape

2.1 Market ecosystem

Exhibit 10: Parent market



Exhibit 11: Market Characteristics

3 Market Sizing

3.1 Market definition

Exhibit 12: Offerings of vendors included in the market definition

3.2 Market segment analysis

Exhibit 13: Market segments

3.3 Market size 2022

3.4 Market outlook: Forecast for 2022-2027

Exhibit 14: Chart on Global - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 15: Data Table on Global - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 16: Chart on Global Market: Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 17: Data Table on Global Market: Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

4 Historic Market Size

4.1 Global adhesive films market 2017 - 2021

Exhibit 18: Historic Market Size  Data Table on Global adhesive films market 2017 - 2021 ($ million)

4.2 Application Segment Analysis 2017 - 2021

Exhibit 19: Historic Market Size  Application Segment 2017 - 2021 ($ million)

4.3 End-user Segment Analysis 2017 - 2021

Exhibit 20: Historic Market Size  End-user Segment 2017 - 2021 ($ million)

4.4 Geography Segment Analysis 2017 - 2021

Exhibit 21: Historic Market Size  Geography Segment 2017 - 2021 ($ million)

4.5 Country Segment Analysis 2017 - 2021

Exhibit 22: Historic Market Size  Country Segment 2017 - 2021 ($ million)

5 Five Forces Analysis

5.1 Five forces summary

Exhibit 23: Five forces analysis - Comparison between 2022 and 2027

5.2 Bargaining power of buyers

Exhibit 24: Chart on Bargaining power of buyers  Impact of key factors 2022 and 2027

5.3 Bargaining power of suppliers

Exhibit 25: Bargaining power of suppliers  Impact of key factors in 2022 and 2027

5.4 Threat of new entrants

Exhibit 26: Threat of new entrants  Impact of key factors in 2022 and 2027

5.5 Threat of substitutes

Exhibit 27: Threat of substitutes  Impact of key factors in 2022 and 2027

5.6 Threat of rivalry

Exhibit 28: Threat of rivalry  Impact of key factors in 2022 and 2027

5.7 Market condition

Exhibit 29: Chart on Market condition - Five forces 2022 and 2027

6 Market Segmentation by Application

6.1 Market segments

Exhibit 30: Chart on Application - Market share 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 31: Data Table on Application - Market share 2022-2027 (%)

6.2 Comparison by Application

Exhibit 32: Chart on Comparison by Application



Exhibit 33: Data Table on Comparison by Application

6.3 Tapes - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 34: Chart on Tapes - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 35: Data Table on Tapes - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 36: Chart on Tapes - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 37: Data Table on Tapes - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

6.4 Labels - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 38: Chart on Labels - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 39: Data Table on Labels - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 40: Chart on Labels - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 41: Data Table on Labels - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

6.5 Graphics - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 42: Chart on Graphics - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 43: Data Table on Graphics - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 44: Chart on Graphics - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 45: Data Table on Graphics - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

6.6 Others - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 46: Chart on Others - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 47: Data Table on Others - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 48: Chart on Others - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 49: Data Table on Others - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

6.7 Market opportunity by Application

Exhibit 50: Market opportunity by Application ($ million)



Exhibit 51: Data Table on Market opportunity by Application ($ million)

7 Market Segmentation by End-user

7.1 Market segments

Exhibit 52: Chart on End-user - Market share 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 53: Data Table on End-user - Market share 2022-2027 (%)

7.2 Comparison by End-user

Exhibit 54: Chart on Comparison by End-user



Exhibit 55: Data Table on Comparison by End-user

7.3 Packaging - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 56: Chart on Packaging - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 57: Data Table on Packaging - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 58: Chart on Packaging - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 59: Data Table on Packaging - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

7.4 Aerospace - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 60: Chart on Aerospace - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 61: Data Table on Aerospace - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 62: Chart on Aerospace - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 63: Data Table on Aerospace - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

7.5 Electrical and electronics - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 64: Chart on Electrical and electronics - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 65: Data Table on Electrical and electronics - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 66: Chart on Electrical and electronics - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 67: Data Table on Electrical and electronics - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

7.6 Automotive and transportation - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 68: Chart on Automotive and transportation - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 69: Data Table on Automotive and transportation - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 70: Chart on Automotive and transportation - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 71: Data Table on Automotive and transportation - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

7.7 Others - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 72: Chart on Others - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 73: Data Table on Others - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 74: Chart on Others - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 75: Data Table on Others - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

7.8 Market opportunity by End-user

Exhibit 76: Market opportunity by End-user ($ million)



Exhibit 77: Data Table on Market opportunity by End-user ($ million)

8 Customer Landscape

8.1 Customer landscape overview

Exhibit 78: Analysis of price sensitivity, lifecycle, customer purchase basket, adoption rates, and purchase criteria

9 Geographic Landscape

9.1 Geographic segmentation

Exhibit 79: Chart on Market share by geography 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 80: Data Table on Market share by geography 2022-2027 (%)

9.2 Geographic comparison

Exhibit 81: Chart on Geographic comparison



Exhibit 82: Data Table on Geographic comparison

9.3 APAC - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 83: Chart on APAC - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 84: Data Table on APAC - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 85: Chart on APAC - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 86: Data Table on APAC - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.4 North America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 87: Chart on North America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 88: Data Table on North America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 89: Chart on North America - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

Exhibit 90: Data Table on North America - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.5 Europe - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 91: Chart on Europe - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 92: Data Table on Europe - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 93: Chart on Europe - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

Exhibit 94: Data Table on Europe - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.6 South America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 95: Chart on South America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 96: Data Table on South America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 97: Chart on South America - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

Exhibit 98: Data Table on South America - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.7 Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

and - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 99: Chart on Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

and - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 100: Data Table on Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

and - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 101: Chart on Middle East and Africa - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

and - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

Exhibit 102: Data Table on Middle East and Africa - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.8 China - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 103: Chart on China - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 104: Data Table on China - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 105: Chart on China - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

Exhibit 106: Data Table on China - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.9 US - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 107: Chart on US - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 108: Data Table on US - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 109: Chart on US - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 110: Data Table on US - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.10 Japan - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 111: Chart on Japan - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 112: Data Table on Japan - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 113: Chart on Japan - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

Exhibit 114: Data Table on Japan - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.11 Germany - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 115: Chart on Germany - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 116: Data Table on Germany - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 117: Chart on Germany - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

Exhibit 118: Data Table on Germany - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.12 UK - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 119: Chart on UK - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 120: Data Table on UK - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 121: Chart on UK - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 122: Data Table on UK - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.13 Market opportunity by geography

Exhibit 123: Market opportunity by geography ($ million)



Exhibit 124: Data Tables on Market opportunity by geography ($ million)

10 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends

10.1 Market drivers

10.2 Market challenges

10.3 Impact of drivers and challenges

Exhibit 125: Impact of drivers and challenges in 2022 and 2027

10.4 Market trends

11 Vendor Landscape

11.1 Overview

11.2 Vendor landscape

Exhibit 126: Overview on Criticality of inputs and Factors of differentiation

11.3 Landscape disruption

Exhibit 127: Overview on factors of disruption

11.4 Industry risks

Exhibit 128: Impact of key risks on business

12 Vendor Analysis

12.1 Vendors covered

Exhibit 129: Vendors covered

12.2 Market positioning of vendors

Exhibit 130: Matrix on vendor position and classification

12.3 3M Co.

Co. Exhibit 131: 3M Co. - Overview

Co. - Overview

Exhibit 132: 3M Co. - Business segments

Co. - Business segments

Exhibit 133: 3M Co. - Key offerings

Co. - Key offerings

Exhibit 134: 3M Co. - Segment focus

12.4 Adhesive Films Inc.

Exhibit 135: Adhesive Films Inc. - Overview



Exhibit 136: Adhesive Films Inc. - Product / Service



Exhibit 137: Adhesive Films Inc. - Key offerings

12.5 Adhesives Research Inc.

Exhibit 138: Adhesives Research Inc. - Overview



Exhibit 139: Adhesives Research Inc. - Product / Service



Exhibit 140: Adhesives Research Inc. - Key offerings

12.6 ADHETEC

Exhibit 141: ADHETEC - Overview



Exhibit 142: ADHETEC - Product / Service



Exhibit 143: ADHETEC - Key offerings

12.7 Arkema Group

Exhibit 144: Arkema Group - Overview



Exhibit 145: Arkema Group - Business segments



Exhibit 146: Arkema Group - Key news



Exhibit 147: Arkema Group - Key offerings



Exhibit 148: Arkema Group - Segment focus

12.8 Ashland Inc.

Exhibit 149: Ashland Inc. - Overview



Exhibit 150: Ashland Inc. - Business segments



Exhibit 151: Ashland Inc. - Key news



Exhibit 152: Ashland Inc. - Key offerings



Exhibit 153: Ashland Inc. - Segment focus

12.9 Avery Dennison Corp.

Exhibit 154: Avery Dennison Corp. - Overview



Exhibit 155: Avery Dennison Corp. - Business segments



Exhibit 156: Avery Dennison Corp. - Key news



Exhibit 157: Avery Dennison Corp. - Key offerings



Exhibit 158: Avery Dennison Corp. - Segment focus

12.10 Coveris Management GmbH

Exhibit 159: Coveris Management GmbH - Overview



Exhibit 160: Coveris Management GmbH - Product / Service



Exhibit 161: Coveris Management GmbH - Key offerings

12.11 GRANITOL

Exhibit 162: GRANITOL - Overview



Exhibit 163: GRANITOL - Product / Service



Exhibit 164: GRANITOL - Key offerings

12.12 H.B. Fuller Co.

Exhibit 165: H.B. Fuller Co. - Overview



Exhibit 166: H.B. Fuller Co. - Business segments



Exhibit 167: H.B. Fuller Co. - Key news



Exhibit 168: H.B. Fuller Co. - Key offerings



Exhibit 169: H.B. Fuller Co. - Segment focus

12.13 Henkel AG and Co. KGaA

Exhibit 170: Henkel AG and Co. KGaA - Overview



Exhibit 171: Henkel AG and Co. KGaA - Business segments



Exhibit 172: Henkel AG and Co. KGaA - Key offerings



Exhibit 173: Henkel AG and Co. KGaA - Segment focus

12.14 Hexcel Corp.

Exhibit 174: Hexcel Corp. - Overview



Exhibit 175: Hexcel Corp. - Business segments



Exhibit 176: Hexcel Corp. - Key news



Exhibit 177: Hexcel Corp. - Key offerings



Exhibit 178: Hexcel Corp. - Segment focus

12.15 Rogers Corp.

Exhibit 179: Rogers Corp. - Overview



Exhibit 180: Rogers Corp. - Business segments



Exhibit 181: Rogers Corp. - Key offerings



Exhibit 182: Rogers Corp. - Segment focus

12.16 Toray TCAC Holding B.V.

Exhibit 183: Toray TCAC Holding B.V. - Overview



Exhibit 184: Toray TCAC Holding B.V. - Product / Service



Exhibit 185: Toray TCAC Holding B.V. - Key offerings

12.17 UPM Kymmene Corp.

Exhibit 186: UPM Kymmene Corp. - Overview



Exhibit 187: UPM Kymmene Corp. - Business segments



Exhibit 188: UPM Kymmene Corp. - Key news



Exhibit 189: UPM Kymmene Corp. - Key offerings



Exhibit 190: UPM Kymmene Corp. - Segment focus

13 Appendix

13.1 Scope of the report

13.2 Inclusions and exclusions checklist

Exhibit 191: Inclusions checklist



Exhibit 192: Exclusions checklist

13.3 Currency conversion rates for US$

Exhibit 193: Currency conversion rates for US$

13.4 Research methodology

Exhibit 194: Research methodology



Exhibit 195: Validation techniques employed for market sizing



Exhibit 196: Information sources

13.5 List of abbreviations

Exhibit 197: List of abbreviations

About Us

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provide actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

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Technavio Research

Jesse Maida

Media & Marketing Executive

US: +1 844 364 1100

UK: +44 203 893 3200

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.technavio.com/

SOURCE Technavio
Former Cetera Advisors Join NWF Advisory Group, One of the Largest Groups Affiliated with Royal Alliance

PHOENIX, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Advisor Group, one of the nation's largest networks of independent wealth management firms, announced that Silverberg Wealth Management from Westlake Village, CA, has joined NWF Advisory Group (NWF), one of the largest groups affiliated with Royal Alliance. The three former Cetera advisors bring $212 million in client assets to the Advisor Group network.

Silverberg Wealth Management was founded on the principles of integrity, hard work and dedication to clients. As trusted financial advisors, they provide complete wealth management services to their clients, including asset management, retirement planning, college savings, insurance and asset protection. Marcus Silverberg is President of Silverberg Wealth Management and has more than 20 years of experience helping clients seek their financial goals. Rounding out his team are financial advisors Victor Mastrella, with 15 years in the business and Gregg Turkin, a 19-year industry veteran and Branch Operations Manager Dana Toth, with over 20 years' experience in the financial services.

"We are thrilled to partner with NWF and look forward to all the benefits that being part of Advisor Group will bring to our business and our clients," said Silverberg. "When we decided to change firms, we had several compelling offers. After conducting our due diligence, we felt that NWF, with the backing of Advisor Group, was by far the best choice. Experiencing their state of the art technology, flexibility and team approach makes us wish we made this move sooner."

Greg Cornick, Advisor Group's President, Advice & Wealth Management, said, "On behalf of Advisor Group, I'd like to welcome Marcus, Gregg and Victor to our team. We are committed to ensuring these talented professionals have the ongoing service and support they need to ensure their future success. NWF's continued growth in the marketplace is a testament to the value of providing the highest standards of advisor and client care in the industry."

Shehab Mohammad, President of NWF Advisory Group welcomed the new additions to his firm and said, "It's exciting to continue our growth with the addition of Silverberg Wealth Management. Marcus and his team have built an impressive business over the years by managing their clients' wealth through various market cycles while providing a consistently excellent client experience. At NWF, they will be able to leverage our resources, scale and expertise to help them take their business to the next level."

About Advisor Group

Advisor Group, Inc., a portfolio company of Reverence Capital Partners, is the nation's largest network of independent wealth management firms, serving approximately 10,000 financial professionals. The firm is mission-driven to support the strategic role that financial professionals can play in the lives of their clients. Cultivating a spirit of entrepreneurship and independence, Advisor Group champions the enduring value of financial professionals. For more information visit https://www.advisorgroup.com .

Securities and investment advisory services are offered through the firms: FSC Securities Corporation, Royal Alliance Associates, Inc., SagePoint Financial, Inc., Triad Advisors, LLC, Infinex Investments, Inc., and Woodbury Financial Services, Inc., broker-dealers, registered investment advisers, and members of FINRA and SIPC. Securities are offered through Securities America, Inc., American Portfolios Financial Services, Inc., and Ladenburg Thalmann & Co., broker-dealers and member of FINRA and SIPC. Advisory services are offered through Arbor Point Advisors, LLC, American Portfolios Advisors, Inc., Ladenburg Thalmann Asset Management, Inc., Securities America Advisors, Inc., and Triad Hybrid Solutions, LLC, registered investment advisers. Advisory programs offered by FSC Securities Corporation, Royal Alliance Associates, Inc., SagePoint Financial, Inc., Securities America Advisors, Inc., Triad Advisors, LLC., and Woodbury Financial Services, Inc., are sponsored by VISION2020 Wealth Management Corp., an affiliated registered investment adviser.

About Royal Alliance Associates

Royal Alliance Associates, Inc. is part of one of the nation's largest independent financial advisor networks and a Registered Investment Advisor, member FINRA and SIPC. Royal Alliance is supported by Advisor Group, one of the largest truly independent broker-dealer networks in the industry. The firm has more than 3,600 affiliated independent financial advisors and is headquartered in Jersey City. Royal Alliance was founded in 1969 and employs a client driven approach focused on meeting the unique demands of businesses and individuals. For more information visit http://www.royalalliance.com.

About NWF Advisory Group

NWF Advisory Group, Inc. is a wealth management firm headquartered in Los Angeles, Calif., with satellite offices statewide. It was founded in 1969 by a group of experienced financial planners. We are fortunate enough to be part of a large and significant network consisting of a vast array of professional resources, tools and products to choose from, but also to be independent enough to be able to give the proper time and attention to provide clients with the individualized personal care, dedication and financial strategies we feel are best suited for them. Securities and advisory services offered through Royal Alliance Associates, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through NWF Advisory Services, Inc., which is not affiliated with Royal Alliance Associates, Inc.

Media Inquiries Joseph Kuo / Donald Cutler

Haven Tower Group

[email protected] or [email protected]

424 317 4851 or 424 317 4864

SOURCE Advisor Group
Multi-year agreement will create more ways for Canadians to earn and redeem Aeroplan points

When partnership launches in Fall, 2023, Aeroplan and JOURNIE Rewards members who link their loyalty accounts will have increased earning and redemption opportunities and greater choice in accessing new benefits

All Parkland's Canadian fuel and convenience brands to participate, including Ultramar, Chevron, Pioneer, Fas Gas, and ON the RUN and Marche Express

EV charging rewards also planned for JOURNIE Rewards and Aeroplan

MONTREAL, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Air Canada's Aeroplan, Canada's leading travel loyalty program, and Parkland Corporation (TSX:PKI), the company behind popular Canadian fuel and convenience store brands Chevron, Ultramar, Pioneer, Fas Gas, ON the RUN and Marche Express are pleased to announce a new loyalty partnership that will launch in the fall of 2023.

Ian White, Parkland Canada President (left) and Mark Nasr, President of Aeroplan (right). (CNW Group/Air Canada) Logos (CNW Group/Air Canada)

"We are thrilled to come together with the Parkland family of brands to offer Aeroplan members a new way to earn and redeem points in their everyday lives," said Mark Nasr, President of Aeroplan. "Our members have long been asking for a fuel partner, and Parkland's extensive reach across Canada, their best-in-class retail experience, and their investments in low carbon fuels and EV charging infrastructure, make them the perfect fit."

"Our strategic partnership with Aeroplan unites two great Canadian loyalty programs and propels Parkland's loyalty and organic growth strategies," said Parkland Canada President, Ian White.

"Parkland's purpose is to power journeys, and to partner with Canada's premier travel loyalty program and largest airline is a natural extension of our customer proposition. We are excited to work with Aeroplan to accelerate momentum in our JOURNIE Rewards program and provide our customers with even greater choice and value."

Together, the Aeroplan and JOURNIE Rewards loyalty programs will have a broader platform to build deeper engagement with millions of members across Canada, providing increased earning and redemption opportunities, greater choice in accessing new benefits, and an unmatched loyalty experience. More details will be available leading up to the launch in fall of 2023.

Aeroplan offers the ability to earn or redeem points on the world's largest airline partner network, encompassing over 45 airlines serving about 1,400 destinations across the globe. Aeroplan members can redeem for flight rewards on any available Air Canada flight, without blackouts or restrictions, and they don't pay cash surcharges for redemptions. Aeroplan redemption flights operated by Air Canada are automatically compensated using carbon offsets provided by CHOOOSE, Air Canada's provider. To learn more about Aeroplan visit aircanada.com/aeroplan

Parkland's JOURNIE Rewards loyalty program provides its customers access to rewards and benefits as they shop across its coast-to-coast network of over 1,100 participating fuel and convenience stores. With real-time fuel discounts, free merchandise and targeted offers, members earn through their purchases of fuel, convenience items, food, and other services, at its participating Chevron, Ultramar, Pioneer, Fas Gas, and ON the RUN retail locations. By bringing its family of consumer brands together, Parkland delivers one great customer experience and helps its customers make the most of every stop.

About Air Canada

Air Canada is Canada's largest airline, the country's flag carrier and a founding member of Star Alliance, the world's most comprehensive air transportation network. Air Canada provides scheduled service directly to more than 180 airports in Canada, the United States and Internationally on six continents. It holds a Four-Star ranking from Skytrax. Air Canada's Aeroplan program is Canada's premier travel loyalty program, where members can earn or redeem points on the world's largest airline partner network of 45 airlines, plus through an extensive range of merchandise, hotel and car rental rewards. Its freight division, Air Canada Cargo, provides air freight lift and connectivity to hundreds of destinations across six continents using Air Canada's passenger and freighter aircraft. Air Canada has committed to a net zero emissions goal from all global operations by 2050. Air Canada shares are publicly traded on the TSX in Canada and the OCTQX in the US.

About Parkland

Parkland is an international fuel distributor and retailer with operations in 25 countries. Its purpose is to Power Journeys and Energize Communities, and every day, Parkland provides over one million customers with the essential fuels, convenience items and quality foods on which they depend.

With approximately 4,000 retail and commercial locations across Canada, the United States, and the Caribbean region, Parkland has developed supply, distribution, and trading capabilities to accelerate growth and business performance. In addition to meeting its customers' needs for essential fuels, Parkland provides a range of choices to help them lower their environmental impact. These include carbon and renewables trading, solar power, renewables manufacturing and ultra-fast electric vehicle charging.

Parkland's proven business model is centered around organic growth and its supply advantage, and is driven by scale, its integrated refinery and supply infrastructure, and focus on acquiring prudently, and integrating successfully. Parkland's strategy is focused on developing its existing business in resilient markets, growing its food, convenience, and renewable energy businesses, and helping customers to decarbonize. Parkland's business is underpinned by its people, and its values of safety, integrity, community, and respect, which are deeply embedded across its organization. To learn more about JOURNIE Rewards visit journie.ca.

Forward Looking Statement on behalf of Parkland

Certain statements contained in this news release constitute forward-looking information and statements (collectively, "forward-looking statements"). When used in this news release the words "expect", "will", "plan", "strategy", "focus" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. In particular, this news release contains forward-looking statements with respect to, among other things: Parkland's business objectives, strategies, projects and plans and the execution and impact thereof; and the new loyalty partnership between Aeroplan and Parkland, details relating thereto, the benefits, opportunities and customer experience resulting therefrom and the launch, execution and timing thereof.

These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. No assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking statements included in this news release should not be unduly relied upon. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this news release. Parkland does not undertake any obligations to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements except as may be required by securities law. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of numerous risks, assumptions and uncertainties including, but not limited to: general economic, market and business conditions; competitive action by other companies; refining and marketing margins; the ability of suppliers to meet commitments; actions by governmental authorities and other regulators including but not limited to increases in taxes or restricted access to markets; changes and developments in environmental and other regulations; and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of Parkland. See also the risks and uncertainties described in "Cautionary Statements Regarding Forward-Looking Information" and "Risk Factors" included in Parkland's Annual Information Form dated March 21, 2023, and "Forward-Looking Information" and "Risk Factors" included in the Q4 2022 MD&A dated March 2, 2023 , each filed on SEDAR and available on the Parkland website at www.parkland.ca. The forward-looking statements in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

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Multi-year agreement will create more ways for Canadians to earn and redeem Aeroplan points

When partnership launches in Fall, 2023, Aeroplan and JOURNIE Rewards members who link their loyalty accounts will have increased earning and redemption opportunities and greater choice in accessing new benefits

All Parkland's Canadian fuel and convenience brands to participate, including Ultramar, Chevron, Pioneer, Fas Gas, and ON the RUN and Marche Express

EV charging rewards also planned for JOURNIE Rewards and Aeroplan

MONTREAL, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ -- Air Canada's Aeroplan, Canada's leading travel loyalty program, and Parkland Corporation (TSX:PKI), the company behind popular Canadian fuel and convenience store brands Chevron, Ultramar, Pioneer, Fas Gas, ON the RUN and Marche Express are pleased to announce a new loyalty partnership that will launch in the fall of 2023.

Ian White, Parkland Canada President (left) and Mark Nasr, President of Aeroplan (right). Logos

"We are thrilled to come together with the Parkland family of brands to offer Aeroplan members a new way to earn and redeem points in their everyday lives," said Mark Nasr, President of Aeroplan. "Our members have long been asking for a fuel partner, and Parkland's extensive reach across Canada, their best-in-class retail experience, and their investments in low carbon fuels and EV charging infrastructure, make them the perfect fit."

"Our strategic partnership with Aeroplan unites two great Canadian loyalty programs and propels Parkland's loyalty and organic growth strategies," said Parkland Canada President, Ian White.

"Parkland's purpose is to power journeys, and to partner with Canada's premier travel loyalty program and largest airline is a natural extension of our customer proposition. We are excited to work with Aeroplan to accelerate momentum in our JOURNIE Rewards program and provide our customers with even greater choice and value."

Together, the Aeroplan and JOURNIE Rewards loyalty programs will have a broader platform to build deeper engagement with millions of members across Canada, providing increased earning and redemption opportunities, greater choice in accessing new benefits, and an unmatched loyalty experience. More details will be available leading up to the launch in fall of 2023.

Aeroplan offers the ability to earn or redeem points on the world's largest airline partner network, encompassing over 45 airlines serving about 1,400 destinations across the globe. Aeroplan members can redeem for flight rewards on any available Air Canada flight, without blackouts or restrictions, and they don't pay cash surcharges for redemptions. Aeroplan redemption flights operated by Air Canada are automatically compensated using carbon offsets provided by CHOOOSE, Air Canada's provider. To learn more about Aeroplan visit aircanada.com/aeroplan

Parkland's JOURNIE Rewards loyalty program provides its customers access to rewards and benefits as they shop across its coast-to-coast network of over 1,100 participating fuel and convenience stores. With real-time fuel discounts, free merchandise and targeted offers, members earn through their purchases of fuel, convenience items, food, and other services, at its participating Chevron, Ultramar, Pioneer, Fas Gas, and ON the RUN retail locations. By bringing its family of consumer brands together, Parkland delivers one great customer experience and helps its customers make the most of every stop.

About Air Canada

Air Canada is Canada's largest airline, the country's flag carrier and a founding member of Star Alliance, the world's most comprehensive air transportation network. Air Canada provides scheduled service directly to more than 180 airports in Canada, the United States and Internationally on six continents. It holds a Four-Star ranking from Skytrax. Air Canada's Aeroplan program is Canada's premier travel loyalty program, where members can earn or redeem points on the world's largest airline partner network of 45 airlines, plus through an extensive range of merchandise, hotel and car rental rewards. Its freight division, Air Canada Cargo, provides air freight lift and connectivity to hundreds of destinations across six continents using Air Canada's passenger and freighter aircraft. Air Canada has committed to a net zero emissions goal from all global operations by 2050. Air Canada shares are publicly traded on the TSX in Canada and the OCTQX in the US.

About Parkland

Parkland is an international fuel distributor and retailer with operations in 25 countries. Its purpose is to Power Journeys and Energize Communities, and every day, Parkland provides over one million customers with the essential fuels, convenience items and quality foods on which they depend.

With approximately 4,000 retail and commercial locations across Canada, the United States, and the Caribbean region, Parkland has developed supply, distribution, and trading capabilities to accelerate growth and business performance. In addition to meeting its customers' needs for essential fuels, Parkland provides a range of choices to help them lower their environmental impact. These include carbon and renewables trading, solar power, renewables manufacturing and ultra-fast electric vehicle charging.

Parkland's proven business model is centered around organic growth and its supply advantage, and is driven by scale, its integrated refinery and supply infrastructure, and focus on acquiring prudently, and integrating successfully. Parkland's strategy is focused on developing its existing business in resilient markets, growing its food, convenience, and renewable energy businesses, and helping customers to decarbonize. Parkland's business is underpinned by its people, and its values of safety, integrity, community, and respect, which are deeply embedded across its organization. To learn more about JOURNIE Rewards visit journie.ca.

Forward Looking Statement on behalf of Parkland

Certain statements contained in this news release constitute forward-looking information and statements (collectively, "forward-looking statements"). When used in this news release the words "expect", "will", "plan", "strategy", "focus" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. In particular, this news release contains forward-looking statements with respect to, among other things: Parkland's business objectives, strategies, projects and plans and the execution and impact thereof; and the new loyalty partnership between Aeroplan and Parkland, details relating thereto, the benefits, opportunities and customer experience resulting therefrom and the launch, execution and timing thereof.

These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. No assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking statements included in this news release should not be unduly relied upon. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this news release. Parkland does not undertake any obligations to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements except as may be required by securities law. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of numerous risks, assumptions and uncertainties including, but not limited to: general economic, market and business conditions; competitive action by other companies; refining and marketing margins; the ability of suppliers to meet commitments; actions by governmental authorities and other regulators including but not limited to increases in taxes or restricted access to markets; changes and developments in environmental and other regulations; and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of Parkland. See also the risks and uncertainties described in "Cautionary Statements Regarding Forward-Looking Information" and "Risk Factors" included in Parkland's Annual Information Form dated March 21, 2023, and "Forward-Looking Information" and "Risk Factors" included in the Q4 2022 MD&A dated March 2, 2023 , each filed on SEDAR and available on the Parkland website at www.parkland.ca. The forward-looking statements in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

Read Our Annual Report Here

Sign up for Air Canada news: aircanada.com

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Contacts: [email protected]; Internet: aircanada.com/media; Parkland Media Inquiries, Simon Scott, Director, Corporate Communications, 403-956-9272, [email protected]; Parkland Investor Inquiries, Valerie Roberts, Director, Investor Relations, 403-956-9282, [email protected]

SOURCE Air Canada; Parkland Corporation
BEIJING, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has clarified that its investment in the Indonesia Mandalika Urban and Tourism Infrastructure Project (Mandalika Project) is in compliance with environmental and social standards.

Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB)

Urjit Patel, AIIB's Vice President for Investment Operations in South and Southeast Asia, said, "Since the concerns were first raised in 2019, AIIB has shown following due diligence that complaints were largely not related to the Mandalika Project but rather to the nearby MotoGP Circuit, which is a separate Project and not financed by AIIB."

Patel emphasized that the Mandalika Project is designed to provide sustainable core infrastructure to develop the southern region of Lombok as a tourist destination and stimulate local business and create employment for the community. Tourism makes a major contribution to the country's GDP, but requires supporting infrastructure such as roads, water and sanitation services, solid waste management, power distribution, disaster risk management, landscaping and community facilitiesinvestments that will also benefit the community.

Since approval of the Mandalika Project, AIIB has closely monitored implementation by its client, the Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), of the Bank's Environmental and Social Framework.

With support from AIIB, ITDC has worked with affected communities while preparing the Project to avoid, minimize and/or mitigate potential adverse impacts. The resettlement action plan for the affected local community includes the provision of larger homes for those resettled. Project-affected people are being given the opportunity to own both the house and the land. Skill development and trainings as well as jobs are being provided for the affected people. Market lots for local vendors, micro, small and medium enterprises and community facilities within the Mandalika Special Economic Zone have been set aside as part of the plan.

AIIB notes that the Mandalika Project, like any other infrastructure development, is a complex undertaking but the Bank remains committed to working with its partners and stakeholders, so that everyone can participate in and reap the benefits the Project is anticipated to bring.

About AIIB

The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is a multilateral development bank whose mission is financing the Infrastructure for Tomorrowinfrastructure with sustainability at its core. We began operations in Beijing in January 2016 and have since grown to 106 approved members worldwide. We are capitalized at USD100 billion and Triple-A-rated by the major international credit rating agencies. Working with partners, AIIB meets clients' needs by unlocking new capital and investing in infrastructure that is green, technology-enabled and promotes regional connectivity.

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2056812/Asian_Infrastructure_Investment_Bank_AIIB.jpg

SOURCE Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB)
Natural Hazards Index Tool is accessible to the public via an online application

NASHVILLE, Tenn., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- AllianceBernstein Holding L.P. (NYSE: AB), a leading global investment management and research firm, and the National Center for Disaster Preparedness (NCDP) at the Columbia Climate School announced today the launch of version 2.0 of the Natural Hazards Index (NHI) map application .

This NHI tool is the latest development of the continued collaboration between AB and the Columbia Climate School, featuring an interactive, publicly available application that examines physical climate hazard data in the United States. Developed by the NCDP and updated under this collaboration with AB, this map is now one of the most up-to-date, innovative tools that examine weather and climate change vulnerabilities, such as extreme heat and natural hazards, in communities and regions across the United States and Puerto Rico. The tool provides census tract-level granularity of these hazards across 14 different hazard layers, including extreme heat, drought, hurricanes, tornados, and more.

NCDP has engaged with AB investors for more than a year to develop the NHI Tool by updating and refining disparate datasets and identifying and adding new data, which resulted in an expanded and improved centralized dashboard. AB is beginning to incorporate the NHI Tool into its investments in municipalities and securitized assets to analyze and better evaluate the various hazards related to physical climate risk and their impact on some of AB's fixed-income strategies.

"Climate change can present material investment risks and opportunities that we seek to manage on behalf of our clients," said AB's Director of ESG Data and Technology John Huang. "The Columbia Climate School continues to be a critical partner in supporting our investment teams' efforts to integrate material climate factors into the investment process, where applicable. This innovative tool represents AB's differentiated approach to partnership and data, layering on our internal insights as an active manager when it comes to understanding the potential impact of climate change on asset values and cash flows."

"Since the launch of version 1.0 of this map, we have been impressed with its utility and depth of reach across many sectors and communities," said Senior Staff Associate and Project Lead at NCDP Jonathan Sury. "Through this partnership, we are thrilled to be releasing this major upgrade. We have thoughtfully curated the most current publicly available hazard data and compiled them into an easy-to-understand format, taking the guesswork out of navigating complex data from multiple sources."

"Managing risk in the face of a changing disaster landscape starts with understanding our exposure to hazards. From there, individuals, organizations, and communities can make more informed investments on what steps to take to mitigate against these hazards," said Director of NCDP Jeff Schlegelmilch. "This updated tool is one part of a broader suite of information that can be used to improve how we invest in resilience at all levels of society."

"This tool reflects our continued commitment to managing material climate risks and opportunities in partnership with the renowned experts at Columbia Climate School," said AB's Chief Responsibility Officer Erin Bigley. "Our work with NCDP highlights the unique research capabilities and synergies of both our investors and Columbia's leading scientists and how we can use these insights to better prepare our clients for the future."

The tool will remain publicly available for use.

For more information on the work for NCDP and to visit the dashboard, please click here.

About AllianceBernstein

AllianceBernstein is a leading global investment management firm that offers high-quality research and diversified investment services to institutional investors, individuals, and private wealth clients in major world markets. As of March 31, 2023, AllianceBernstein had $676 billion in assets under management. Additional information about AB may be found on our website, www.alliancebernstein.com .

About NCDP

The National Center for Disaster Preparedness (NCDP), Columbia Climate School, at Columbia University works to understand and improve the capacity to prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters. NCDP focuses on the readiness of governmental and non-governmental systems; the complexities of population recovery; the power of community engagement; and the risks of human vulnerability.

SOURCE AllianceBernstein
Altitude Marketing, an integrated marketing agency serving B2B companies for over 19 years, recently announced a marketing partnership with Sytheon, a premier supplier of multifunctional, high-performance active ingredients for the personal care industry.

EMMAUS, Pa., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Sytheon is headquartered in the US, with locations in France and Singapore, well positioning the company to serve 60+ countries across the globe. As a research-backed company, all of Sytheon's ingredients are supported by deep clinical research with a focus on safety, sustainability, stability, differentiation and performance. Each active ingredient in the Sytheon portfolio is either directly derived from Mother Nature or inspired by natural chemistry and made through organic synthesis.

The partnership with Altitude will seek to bolster Sytheon's global presence. Tweet this Altitude Marketing & Sytheon Partnership

The partnership with Altitude will seek to bolster Sytheon's global presence through elevated branding and messaging, highly targeted product marketing, and focused lead generation.

"This partnership with Altitude Marketing is exactly what we were looking for to elevate our presence," said Sohini Ganguli, Sytheon's Head of Business Development. "Collaboration together will be the key to our future success!"

"With their science-first approach, market leadership position, Earth-friendly values and superior quality products, Sytheon is the real deal  and a great fit with Altitude," said Altitude Marketing CEO, Andrew Stanten. "We are incredibly excited that after an extensive agency search, Sytheon selected us as their global marketing partner."

About Altitude Marketing

Altitude Marketing is a modern, data driven, full-service B2B marketing agency that serves national and global technology-oriented companies in enterprise software, life sciences, biotechnology and established manufacturing. For more than 19 years, Altitude has thrived working with technology-oriented clients who have complex offerings and operate in regulated spaces. Ideally located between New York and Philadelphia in the Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania, Altitude works with clients from all over the United States and Europe, providing a full suite of integrated marketing services: strategy, branding, messaging, web development, digital marketing, content marketing, lead generation, SEO, public relations, trade shows, social media, sales enablement, advertising, marketing automation, data analytics, channel support and more. Learn more at altitudemarketing.com or follow us on Linkedin , Facebook , Twitter and Instagram .

Media Contact:

Ziera Soda

[email protected]

SOURCE ALTITUDE MARKETING
ZURICH, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Amcor plc (NYSE: AMCR; ASX: AMC) will announce its year to date results for the nine months ended 31 March 2023 after the US market closes on Tuesday 2 May 2023.

A conference call and webcast to discuss the results will be held at 5.30pm US Eastern Daylight Time on Tuesday 2 May 2023 / 7.30am Australian Eastern Standard Time on Wednesday 3 May 2023. For those wishing to participate in the call please use the following dial-in numbers:

US and Canada:

888 440 4149 (toll-free)



646 960 0661 (local) Australia:

1800 519 630 (toll-free)



02 9133 7103 (local) United Kingdom:

0800 358 0970 (toll-free)



020 3433 3846 (local) Hong Kong, China:

+852 3002 3410 (local) Singapore:

+65 3159 5133 (local) All other countries:

+1 646 960 0661 (this is not a toll-free number)





Conference ID

8080870

Access to the webcast and supporting materials will be available via the Investors section of Amcor's website (www.amcor.com/investors). A webcast replay will be available at the conclusion of the call.

For further information please contact:

Investors:







Tracey Whitehead

Damien Bird

Damon Wright Global Head of Investor Relations

Vice President Investor Relations

Vice President Investor Relations Amcor

Amcor

Amcor +61 3 9226 9028 / +1 224-478-5790

+61 3 9226 9070

+ 1 224 313 7141 / +1 949 202 9682 [email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]









Media  Europe

Media  Australia

Media  North America Ernesto Duran

James Strong

Daniel Yunger Head of Global Communications





Amcor

Citadel-MAGNUS

KekstCNC +41 78 698 69 40

+61 448 881 174

+1 212 521 4879 [email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

About Amcor

Amcor is a global leader in developing and producing responsible packaging solutions for food, beverage, pharmaceutical, medical, home- and personal-care, and other products. Amcor works with leading companies around the world to protect their products and the people who rely on them, differentiate brands, and improve supply chains through a range of flexible and rigid packaging, specialty cartons, closures, and services. The company is focused on making packaging that is increasingly lighter weight, recyclable and reusable, and made using an increasing amount of recycled content. In fiscal 2022, around 44,000 Amcor people generated US$15 billion in annual sales from operations that span 220 locations in 43 countries. NYSE: AMCR; ASX: AMC

www.amcor.com I LinkedIn I Facebook I Twitter I YouTube

SOURCE Amcor
Beginning in 2024, the project is an important milestone for the widespread adoption of ammonia as fuel in the maritime industry

BROOKLYN, N.Y. and SINGAPORE, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Amogy Inc ., a pioneer of emission-free, energy-dense ammonia power solutions, and SGX-listed Marco Polo Marine Ltd., a regional integrated marine logistics company actively involved in the offshore wind sector, entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Under the terms of their MoU, Amogy's proprietary ammonia-to-power system would also be installed on Marco Polo Marine's existing or newly built wind vessels, allowing them to operate with zero emissions.

The collaboration dovetails with Marco Polo Marine's efforts to decarbonize the shipping sector and reduce the carbon footprint of offshore wind farms through the adoption of more sustainable and green practices. The partnership will also allow Amogy to fine-tune its ammonia-to-power solution in order to more effectively support the specific types of wind vessels (including, but not limited to, CSOVs and SOVs).

Amogy and Marco Polo Marine Unveil Collaboration to Develop Zero-Emission Solution for Offshore Wind Fleet Tweet this

It is thus an excellent opportunity for both parties to work together to ensure optimal performance, best practices, and successful execution, and to promote sustainability and carbon neutrality initiatives across the maritime and offshore wind industries.

According to a report by the US Department of Energy, global offshore wind energy is a rapidly growing industry and is expected to increase by about five times in size by 2030. By end-2022, Asia is expected to have overtaken Europe as the world's largest regional offshore wind market by cumulative installations. The region's offshore wind capacity is forecast to expand at an annual average rate of 15.3% from 27GW at end-2021 to 109GW in 2031. Wind vessels like CSOVs and SOVs etc. are important support vessels in the offshore wind industry, and the adoption of ammonia power would see a significant decrease in carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions from such vessels.

"We're delighted to work with a respected and innovative maritime operator that shares our bold vision for a greener and more sustainable future," said Seonghoon Woo, CEO of Amogy. "The APAC region's commitment to clean fuels makes it important that we have an impact here and we hope that our partnership with Marco Polo can serve as a powerful example for other maritime operators."

The Maritime & Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and the Singapore Energy Market Authority (EMA) recently launched an Expression of Interest (EOI) process to build, own and operate low or zero-carbon power generation and bunkering projects on Jurong Island, noting that they saw ammonia power as a "promising pathway" to decarbonization.

"We welcome the opportunity to collaborate with Amogy and combine our environmentally friendly and innovative technologies. We think that Amogy's ability to convert ammonia to gaseous hydrogen in our wind vessels is a step in the right direction that brings us closer to our long-term goal of decarbonizing the maritime industry by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, it will help speed up the global transition towards clean energy sources," said Sean Lee, CEO of Marco Polo Marine.

Recently, Marco Polo Marine has stepped up its push into the offshore wind industry, following its successful acquisition of PKR Offshore, an established Taiwan-based wind vessel operator, in May 2022. The Group also commissioned the development of a new state-of-the-art CSOV at their Batam shipyard in September 2022 to boost service offerings in support of the offshore wind farm sector. Leveraging on its offshore wind track record in Taiwan, the Group has been supporting the development of offshore wind farms in Japan, South Korea and the wider Asia-Pacific region. It continues to actively identify suitable partners in new markets to expand its reach.

The MoU announcement comes after the news of Amogy's recent $139 million B-1 raise . The round will enable Amogy to continue its organizational development to support commercialization, begin manufacturing its innovative ammonia-to-power technology, and bring its first product to market in 2024.

This all also comes after Amogy announced it is building a zero-emission ammonia-powered vessel with the intention of sailing the vessel in late 2023. Ammonia is predicted to become the leading fuel source for the world's giant cargo ships by 2050.

To learn more about Amogy and its technology, please visit www.amogy.co .

About Amogy

Amogy offers ammonia-based, emission-free, high energy-density power solutions to decarbonize transportation for a sustainable future. Founded in 2020 by four MIT PhD alumni with a shared vision, Amogy aims to enable the decarbonization of the heavy-duty transportation sector, accelerating the global journey towards Net Zero 2050. The company's investors include Amazon's Climate Pledge Fund, AP Ventures, SK, Saudi Aramco and DCVC. To date, Amogy's scalable ammonia-powered, zero-emissions energy system has been demonstrated with success in a drone, heavy-duty tractor, and semi truck.

About Marco Polo Marine Ltd.

Listed on the Mainboard of the SGX-ST since 2007, Marco Polo Marine Ltd is a reputable regional integrated marine logistics company which principally engages in shipping and shipyard operations.

The Group's shipping business relates to the chartering of Offshore Supply Vessels ("OSVs") for deployment in the regional waters, including the Gulf of Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and Taiwan, as well as the chartering of tug boats and barges to customers, especially those which are engaged in the mining, commodities, construction, infrastructure and land reclamation industries.

Under its chartering operations, the Group has diversified its activities beyond the oil and gas industry to include the support of the construction of offshore wind farm projects. The burgeoning offshore wind energy industry in Asia is at a nascent stage where structures are in the process of being installed, which presents tremendous opportunities for the Group whose fleet is able to support the development of these projects.

The Group's shipyard business relates to ship building as well as the provision of ship maintenance, repair, outfitting and conversion services, which are carried out through its shipyard located in Batam, Indonesia. Occupying a total land area of approximately 34 hectares with a seafront of approximately 650 meters, the modern shipyard also houses three dry docks, which have boosted the Group's technical capabilities and service offerings to undertake projects involving mid-sized and sophisticated vessels.

For more information on Marco Polo Marine Ltd, please visit www.marcopolomarine.com.sg

Media inquiries for Amogy:

[email protected]

For Marco Polo Marine Ltd Media

and Investor Relations:

Emily Choo

+65 9734 6565

[email protected]

SOURCE Amogy
The company's first-ever corporate social responsibility and impact report illustrates Aura's commitment to climate action and progress toward its mission of creating a safer internet for everyone

BOSTON, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Aura , the leader in intelligent safety for consumers, announced its goal to be carbon neutral by the end of 2023. This commitment is made alongside the release of the company's 2022 Aura Cares Report , which illustrates Aura's progress in establishing ESG plans, environmental sustainability initiatives and creating positive societal, community and industry change.

"Aura's mission is simple, to make a safer internet for everyone. But, it's how we achieve that goal that will define who we are as a company," said Hari Ravichandran, Founder and CEO of Aura. "Protecting families is critical, but by investing in a more sustainable planet and diversity in our industry while we develop these innovative protections, we will ensure even greater impact."

The 2022 Aura Cares Report and climate pledge follow the company's recently announced partnership with actor and climate-activist Robert Downey Jr. , who released a video praising Aura's leadership in driving sustainable innovation.

"Aura is committed to protecting you online. I'm committed to climate consciousness. At the end of the day, our shared goal is to keep people safe," said Aura investor, board member and brand advocate Robert Downey Jr. "I am proud to partner with Aura as it sprints toward its carbon neutral goal to better protect our home planet."

In 2022, Aura started the process of evaluating its existing greenhouse gas emissions and identifying opportunities to reduce its carbon footprint with the support of a carbon advisor, ClimeCo . Informed by this evaluation, the 2022 Aura Cares Report outlines three key pillars of Aura's approach to climate action. These include: a commitment to regular reporting, reducing its carbon footprint through internal operational change, as well as purchasing credible offsets to neutralize any remaining emissions. With a primarily remote workforce and digital product, Aura's business is set up to make further emission reductions reasonable and achievable.

For more information on the 2022 Aura Cares Report, including company information, internal employee engagement and culture initiatives, as external corporate social responsibility efforts and investments, please visit aura.com/aura-cares .

About Aura

Aura, the leader in intelligent safety, provides all-in-one digital protection for consumers. We understand that the online safety needs of each individual are unique and require a personalized solution. By bringing together security, privacy and parental controls on an intelligent platform, Aura makes adaptive and proactive digital safety accessible to everyone. Visit www.aura.com .

SOURCE Aura
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. Additions to budget will account for at least 3 billion manats, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev said in an interview with Azerbaijan Television in the Salyan district, Trend reports.

"In general, I think that the additions to the budget will account for at least 3 billion manats, perhaps even more. Most of this amount will be used in the reconstruction of Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur.

Our military spending will be in second place. Because there is a great need for that. Everyone is watching the processes going on in the world. Threats are increasing in the world. Dangers are growing. It is true that we crushed the enemy and achieved a great Victory in the second Karabakh war. However, revengeful forces are rising in Armenia again, so we must be ready for any situation and create an army that would be exemplary on a global scale, be one of the strongest armies. The Azerbaijani Army is already strong now," President Ilham Aliyev underlined.
CHARLOTTE, N.C., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Bank of America reported its first-quarter 2023 financial results today. The news release, supplemental filing and investor presentation can be accessed at Bank of America's Investor Relations website at https://investor.bankofamerica.com/quarterly-earnings.

Investor Conference Call information:

Chief Executive Officer Brian Moynihan and Chief Financial Officer Alastair Borthwick will discuss the financial results in a conference call at 8:30 a.m. ET today. For a listen-only connection to the conference call, dial 1.877.200.4456 (U.S.) or 1.785.424.1732 (international), and the conference ID is 79795. Please dial in 10 minutes prior to the start of the call.

Investors can also listen to live audio of the conference call and view the presentation slides by visiting the Events and Presentations section of the company's Investor Relations website.

Replay information for Investor Conference Call:

Investors can access replays of the conference call by visiting the Investor Relations website or by calling 1.800.934.4850 (U.S.) or 1.402.220.1178 (international) from noon on April 18 through 11:59 p.m. ET on April 28.

Bank of America

Bank of America is one of the world's leading financial institutions, serving individual consumers, small and middle-market businesses and large corporations with a full range of banking, investing, asset management and other financial and risk management products and services. The company provides unmatched convenience in the United States, serving approximately 68 million consumer and small business clients with approximately 3,900 retail financial centers, approximately 15,000 ATMs and award-winning digital banking with approximately 56 million verified digital users. Bank of America is a global leader in wealth management, corporate and investment banking and trading across a broad range of asset classes, serving corporations, governments, institutions and individuals around the world. Bank of America offers industry-leading support to approximately 3 million small business households through a suite of innovative, easy-to-use online products and services. The company serves clients through operations across the United States, its territories and more than 35 countries. Bank of America Corporation stock (NYSE: BAC) is listed on the New York Stock Exchange.

For more Bank of America news, including dividend announcements and other important information, visit the Bank of America newsroom and register for news email alerts.

www.bankofamerica.com

Investors May Contact:

Lee McEntire, Bank of America

Phone: 1.980.388.6780

[email protected]

Jonathan G. Blum, Bank of America (Fixed Income)

Phone: 1.212.449.3112

[email protected]

Reporters May Contact:

Bill Halldin, Bank of America

Phone: 1.916.724.0093

[email protected]

Christopher P. Feeney, Bank of America

Phone: 1.980.386.6794

[email protected]

SOURCE Bank of America Corporation
LOS ANGELES, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Ken Paves knows first-hand how far the beauty industry can take a person. From growing up in a working-class family in Detroit, to now working with the likes of Oprah and Victoria Beckham, and showcasing his work on the covers of most global fashion magazines, the beauty industry has brought him great success.

That's why he has partnered with non-profit Beauty Changes Lives to launch Know Beauty Secrets, a campaign dedicated to bringing more awareness and attention to the rewarding careers that are part of the $49 billion dollar beauty industry.

Celebrity Hairstylist Ken Paves Celebrity Hairstylist Ken Paves and Victoria Beckham

"There is a bit of a stigma surrounding work in the beauty industry. Often times people look down upon those who have chosen a path in the beauty field or see it as a 'backup' to jobs that require a college education," commented Lynelle Lynch, founder of Beauty Changes Lives, "that's why we launched this campaign, to help shift the narrative and perception around working in the beauty world."

Beauty Changes Lives' mission is to make the beauty and wellness profession a first-choice career. To date it has helped over 1000 people join the beauty world through the support of scholarships and mentorships.

"I am so grateful for what my career has afforded me and that it has allowed me to turn my passion into giving back. I was honored when Beauty Changes Lives approached me about being the face of their outreach campaign," commented Ken Paves. "Their mission of empowering the next generation of beauty professionals through scholarships, mentorships and more is in complete alignment with my values and my road to beauty. Because of the support I had from my family, especially my mother, I was able to have this amazing career. I am that person where Beauty did Change my Life."

The Know Beauty Secrets campaign is a collaborative effort between some of the world's leading beauty companies working to bring together and organize the thousands of companies and millions of employees in the salon and spa world by making it easy for them to support this campaign. Beauty Changes Lives will be providing guidelines, promotional materials, and social media tools to allow these companies and salon and spa pros to effectively and consistently share their stories and support campaign activities.

ABOUT BEAUTY CHANGES LIVES: Beauty Changes Lives is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering and equipping the next generation of beauty professionals by providing valuable resources, scholarships, education, and mentorship opportunities. In a time when it's never been more important to support the industry, all proceeds raised in support of Beauty Changes Lives go to changing the lives of beauty professionals. Since its founding, the organization has raised over $7.5M in scholarships, awarded over 700 scholarships, and changed over 1000 lives. Beauty Changes Lives is shaping the future of the industry. To make a donation, please visit https://beautychangeslives.org/donate/

ABOUT KEN PAVES: For nearly 30 years Ken Paves has remained one of the most sought- after and one of the most recognizable hairstylists in the world. Oprah WInfrey has called him "the big Kahuna of Hollywood hair." His work has graced the covers and pages of most fashion, industry and lifestyle magazines and networks in the world. He has created signature styles for David and Victoria Beckham, Eva Longoria, Tom Brady, Retta, Lady Gaga, Jessica and Ashlee Simpson and even Disney, just to name a few. Ken's career also includes creating and the successful sell through of countless products at retail and QVC. Paves is a longtime supporter of many global charities, such as the Greater Los Angeles Agency on Deafness, Operation Smile, Bright Faces, donated wigs around the world for women in medical need, raised money for epidermolysis bullosa research, Padres Contra El Cancer, The Eva Longoria Foundation, The Trade, and for the early detection of breast cancer and to stop human trafficking. He also raised money for industry professionals seeking Covid relief, and most recently, the disease that took his beloved mother Helen's life, ALS; Helen always encouraged his compassion and concern for others.

Media Contact:

Leesa Raab

917-480-6752

[email protected]

SOURCE Beauty Changes Lives
The established hearing aid brand was founded in Chicago 83 years ago

CHICAGO, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Beltone, named America's #1 Hearing Care Retailer & Best in Customer Service by Newsweek, announced today that the Beltone US headquarters has returned to Chicago after spending over 17 years in Glenview, Illinois. Given how many Beltone employees reside in Chicagoland and Beltone's rich history in Chicago, it was a clear decision to return to its roots.

The Beltone legacy began in 1940 when founders Sam and Faye Posen opened its first hearing aid store in a modest building in downtown Chicago's "Loop". As the company grew into a nationally recognized brand, Beltone moved its headquarters to Chicago's north side to accommodate its manufacturing and research and development needs. In 2005, Beltone headquarters relocated to Glenview where it remained until early this year. The vibrance of Chicago's Fulton Market, along with Chicago's many amenities and attractions that employees, customers, and business partners desire, led to envisioning the space at 656 W. Randolph as Beltone's new headquarters.

Our new headquarters in this modern & invigorating space is the perfect place to continue Beltone's legacy in Chicago Tweet this

Another benefit of the move, Beltone, part of the GN Group, has the amazing opportunity to work more closely with renowned GN brand SteelSeries, a leading gaming and esports peripherals manufacturer. Beltone, SteelSeries, and the GN Hearing US Research & Development team are now in the same building at 656 W. Randolph.

"Our new headquarters in this modern and invigorating space is the perfect place to continue Beltone's legacy in Chicago," says Beltone President of North America, David Molella. "We're also very excited about the increased collaboration across the business that this move will foster."

For those looking to join a high-tech, innovative, and award-winning company that changes lives, you can check out openings for Beltone corporate and Beltone Hearing Centers nationwide by visiting www.beltone.com/careers.

Beltone headquarters is now located at 656 W. Randolph St. #2E, Chicago, IL 60661.

About Beltone

For more than 80 years, Beltone has been one of the nation's most trusted and leading hearing care provider. In addition to providing some of the most reliable, affordable, and advanced hearing aids, we also pride ourselves on serving as a partner to our patients every step of the way during their hearing health journey. With approximately 1,500 Beltone locations nationwide, each office is a local business part of the community it serves and the hearing care professional and staff at your local Beltone will get to know you to provide a personalized experience during your journey to better hearing. And with a nationwide network, you can expect this level of personalized service wherever you go. Our Beltone hearing care professionals receive extensive training and education, so they are always equipped with the latest knowledge to bring you the best care. Proudly part of the GN Group, Beltone continues to focus on the needs of our patients through the research and development of innovative new hearing technologies to allow you to hear what truly matters the most. To learn more, please visit us at www.beltone.com and on LinkedIn.

SOURCE Beltone
PHILADELPHIA, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Bisnow , the leading commercial real estate (CRE) news and events platform, is pleased to announce its first International Life Sciences & Biotech Conference , taking place October 11-12, at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia, PA. The two-day event will bring together industry leaders and innovators to discuss the latest trends and developments in the life sciences sector.

The two-day program features keynote presentations by leading figures in the life sciences industry, including executives from major pharmaceutical and biotech companies, academic researchers, and venture capitalists discussing:

International investment

Developing & designing across all lab types

Accommodating biotech growth in top markets like Boston , London , San Francisco , San Diego , Philadelphia & more

The initial lineup includes C-suite speakers from Longfellow, Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Breakthrough Properties, King Street Properties, Brandywine Realty Trust, and more to come.

"We've been putting on huge life sciences events around the globe for years now with sold-out crowds from London to Boston. This event will take the insights, networking and dealmaking that we've seen at our local market events and take it to the next level," said Bisnow CEO Gregg Mayer. "I'm thrilled to announce this one-of-a-kind conference and cannot wait to see the hundreds of executives across real estate and biotech come together in October."

The event will provide a forum to engage with prominent leaders across life sciences investment, development, research, design and the next wave of incubators. Attendees will gain knowledge of the latest developments in the sector, participate in top-tier networking and experience unmatched dealmaking opportunities.

Current sponsors include CRB Group, SmartLabs, Plymouth Group, Clean Space, Paradigm Structural Engineers, KSS Architects, SageGlass, Sterling Bay, HOK, JB&B, Mispro, HDR, DPR Construction, SGA, GMH Communities, Vicinity Energy, PCI, ShawContract, Neoscape and Lendlease.

To view the event and buy tickets, click here . For speaking or sponsorship opportunities, click here .

About Bisnow

Bisnow is the world's leading B2B platform serving the commercial real estate industry. From events and news to branded content and recruiting solutions, Bisnow reaches more than 11 million readers and hosts more than 450 events each year. Operating in over 50 local markets across the U.S., Canada, the UK and Ireland, our products inform and connect the commercial real estate industry to do more business.

CONTACT: Catherine White, 202-293-0370, [email protected]

SOURCE Bisnow
S&P Global leads Series A round, alongside other new investors including Temasek Trust Capital, Blue Haven Initiative, Gunung Capital, and Tsao Family Office

Ford Foundation and Radicle Impact, which co-invested in BlueMark's seed round in January 2022 , increase their capital commitments in the Series A round

NEW YORK, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- BlueMark, a leading provider of independent impact verification and intelligence for the impact and sustainable investing market, today announced that it had closed its Series A funding round with $10 million in capital commitments from a diverse group of seven investors. The lead investor is S&P Global, with other new investors including Temasek Trust Capital and three family offices with significant experience in impact investing  Blue Haven Initiative, Gunung Capital, and Tsao Family Office.

Ford Foundation and Radicle Impact are also participating in the Series A round, having previously funded BlueMark's seed round with $2.25 million in equity financing, with Ford Foundation as lead investor and Radicle Impact as co-investor.

The increase in funding will be used to accelerate BlueMark's leadership position as a premier provider of impact verification, benchmarks, and analytics to institutional investors of all types. Founded in January 2020, BlueMark has completed 125 verifications to date for investors with a combined $206 billion in impact AUM. The firm's experience with such a large swath of the impact investing industry allows BlueMark to generate a unique set of market information and data. By providing insightful and comparable interpretations of investor impact performance, BlueMark helps optimize capital allocations towards impact. BlueMark also plans to expand its presence across different industries and geographies, with a particular focus on Asia where three of its investors are based.

Christina Leijonhufvud, CEO of BlueMark: "This latest funding round shows how strong the appetite is for greater transparency, accountability, and integrity in the impact and sustainable investing market. BlueMark's distinctive approach to impact verification, benchmarking, and analytics continually raises the bar on best practice impact management and reporting among investment managers and also helps asset allocators identify and engage with managers driving impact."

Dr. Richard Mattison, President of S&P Global Sustainable1: "S&P Global is proud to be investing in BlueMark to support much-needed innovation in transparency for impact metrics. More than ever, companies and investors are seeking access to high quality data and advanced analytics relating to sustainability. This investment represents a step forward in enhancing market participants' access to impact-focused insights."

Roy Swan, Head of Mission Investments at Ford Foundation: "BlueMark's work to help impact investors reach for a higher standard in tracking their performance has rightfully earned them a reputation as a leading authority on best practices in impact management and reporting. This next phase for BlueMark signals the growing awareness around the importance of impact investing as a whole, and Ford Foundation is excited to take our partnership a step further."

Dawn Chan, Managing Director, Investments at Temasek Trust Capital: "Impact and sustainable investing is a focus at Temasek Trust Capital. We see significant growth opportunities for impact investing in Asia and around the world. Independent experts are vital in assessing and assuring that investors are delivering on their impact claims and commitments. BlueMark is a leader in this space, and we look forward to working with the BlueMark team to expand their verification and market intelligence services to new geographies and sectors."

Kelvin Fu, Managing Partner of Singapore-based Gunung Capital: "We are excited to partner with BlueMark in expanding their impact verification and intelligence capabilities in Asia, a market where we see growing demand for sustainable investments and impact verification services. Having gone through our own journey of establishing impact and sustainable frameworks for investment, we view BlueMark's methodologies, capabilities, and team as world-class."

Bryan Goh, CEO at Tsao Family Office: "Tsao Family Office is delighted to support BlueMark in their vital work of bringing transparency, authenticity, and accountability to impact investing. We believe that BlueMark's work will enable capital allocators to make more informed decisions and at the same time drive best practice amongst impact asset managers."

Liesel Pritzker Simmons, Co-Founder and Principal of Blue Haven Initiative: "BlueMark's industry-leading approach to impact verification brings greater clarity and accountability to the process of selecting and engaging with managers, and ultimately makes life easier for allocators like Blue Haven Initiative. We look forward to working with the BlueMark team to extend BlueMark's verification services and unique data to the rest of the market."

The latest funding for BlueMark comes at a pivotal time in the maturation of the impact investing industry. According to the Global Impact Investing Network (GIIN), there is now more than $1 trillion in impact assets under management globally. Now more than ever, the market needs an accountability mechanism to ensure that investors' claims about their sustainability and impact goals, practices, and results are reliable, accurate, and decision-useful for allocators and other stakeholders.

BlueMark's impact verification service encompasses an analysis of an investor's (a) impact management practice (the policies, tools, and processes necessary to execute on their impact strategy) and (b) impact reporting (the completeness and reliability of their reported impact performance).

By aggregating data from these verifications, BlueMark is also able to generate a wealth of insights into industry trends, market challenges, and emerging best practices. BlueMark regularly shares these insights with the impact investing field via a research series on impact management practices ("Making the Mark") and a series on impact reporting ("Raising the Bar"). These research reports, which have been supported by catalytic funding from organizations like The Rockefeller Foundation and the Tipping Point Fund on Impact Investing, are widely shared across the impact investing industry and can be used as a guideline to best practices for both new and established impact investors.

BlueMark became a certified B Corp in November 2022, joining thousands of businesses around the world that are committed to using business as a force for good.

About BlueMark

BlueMark is a leading provider of independent impact verification and intelligence for the impact and sustainable investing market. Founded in January 2020 as a spinoff from Tideline, an expert consultant to the impact investing industry, BlueMark's mission is to "strengthen trust in impact investing" by providing investors with market-leading impact verification services, benchmarks, and analytics. BlueMark's verification methodologies draw on a range of industry standards, frameworks, and regulations, including the Impact Management Project (IMP), the Operating Principles for Impact Management (Impact Principles), the Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI), SDG Impact, and the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR). Learn more about BlueMark and impact verification at www.bluemarktideline.com .

Media Contact: Dmitriy Ioselevich | 17 Communications | [email protected]

SOURCE BlueMark
TORONTO, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Bank of Montreal (TSX: BMO) (NYSE: BMO) today held its Annual Meeting of Shareholders.

At the meeting, all the director nominees listed in the bank's management proxy circular dated February 6, 2023 were elected. The detailed results of the vote for the election of directors are set out below.

Each of the following 13 nominees was elected as a director of Bank of Montreal:

Nominee Votes For Votes Withheld Janice M. Babiak 351,265,494 97.87 % 7,642,029 2.13 % Sophie Brochu 350,385,690 97.63 % 8,521,833 2.37 % Craig W. Broderick 355,002,307 98.91 % 3,905,215 1.09 % George A. Cope 343,003,583 95.57 % 15,903,939 4.43 % Stephen Dent 357,798,594 99.69 % 1,108,927 0.31 % Christine A. Edwards 349,346,887 97.34 % 9,560,636 2.66 % Martin S. Eichenbaum 356,306,341 99.28 % 2,601,181 0.72 % David Harquail 356,718,020 99.39 % 2,189,502 0.61 % Linda S. Huber 356,564,090 99.35 % 2,343,433 0.65 % Eric R. La Fleche 355,352,580 99.01 % 3,554,497 0.99 % Lorraine Mitchelmore 354,474,358 98.76 % 4,433,165 1.24 % Madhu Ranganathan 324,532,435 90.42 % 34,375,088 9.58 % Darryl White 356,410,039 99.30 % 2,497,483 0.70 %



Final voting results on all matters voted on at the Annual Meeting of Shareholders held earlier today will be published shortly on www.bmo.com, and filed with Canadian and U.S. securities regulators.

About BMO Financial Group

BMO Financial Group is the eighth largest bank in North America by assets, with total assets of $1.15 trillion as of January 31, 2023. Serving customers for 200 years and counting, BMO is a diverse team of highly engaged employees providing a broad range of personal and commercial banking, wealth management, global markets and investment banking products and services to 12 million customers across Canada, the United States, and in select markets globally. Driven by a single purpose, to Boldly Grow the Good in business and life, BMO is committed to driving positive change in the world, and making progress for a thriving economy, sustainable future and more inclusive society.

Internet: www.bmo.com Twitter: @BMOMedia

SOURCE BMO Financial Group
TORONTO, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Bank of Montreal (TSX: BMO) (NYSE: BMO) today held its Annual Meeting of Shareholders.

At the meeting, all the director nominees listed in the bank's management proxy circular dated February 6, 2023 were elected. The detailed results of the vote for the election of directors are set out below.

Each of the following 13 nominees was elected as a director of Bank of Montreal:

Nominee Votes For Votes Withheld Janice M. Babiak 351,265,494 97.87 % 7,642,029 2.13 % Sophie Brochu 350,385,690 97.63 % 8,521,833 2.37 % Craig W. Broderick 355,002,307 98.91 % 3,905,215 1.09 % George A. Cope 343,003,583 95.57 % 15,903,939 4.43 % Stephen Dent 357,798,594 99.69 % 1,108,927 0.31 % Christine A. Edwards 349,346,887 97.34 % 9,560,636 2.66 % Martin S. Eichenbaum 356,306,341 99.28 % 2,601,181 0.72 % David Harquail 356,718,020 99.39 % 2,189,502 0.61 % Linda S. Huber 356,564,090 99.35 % 2,343,433 0.65 % Eric R. La Fleche 355,352,580 99.01 % 3,554,497 0.99 % Lorraine Mitchelmore 354,474,358 98.76 % 4,433,165 1.24 % Madhu Ranganathan 324,532,435 90.42 % 34,375,088 9.58 % Darryl White 356,410,039 99.30 % 2,497,483 0.70 %



Final voting results on all matters voted on at the Annual Meeting of Shareholders held earlier today will be published shortly on www.bmo.com, and filed with Canadian and U.S. securities regulators.

About BMO Financial Group

BMO Financial Group is the eighth largest bank in North America by assets, with total assets of $1.15 trillion as of January 31, 2023. Serving customers for 200 years and counting, BMO is a diverse team of highly engaged employees providing a broad range of personal and commercial banking, wealth management, global markets and investment banking products and services to 12 million customers across Canada, the United States, and in select markets globally. Driven by a single purpose, to Boldly Grow the Good in business and life, BMO is committed to driving positive change in the world, and making progress for a thriving economy, sustainable future and more inclusive society.

Internet: www.bmo.com Twitter: @BMOMedia

For News Media Inquiries: John Fenton, Toronto, [email protected], (416) 867-3996; For Investor Relations Inquiries: Christine Viau, Head, Investor Relations, Toronto, [email protected], (416) 867-6956; Bill Anderson, Director, Investor Relations, Toronto, [email protected], (416) 867-7834

SOURCE BMO Financial Group - Strategy
Camp provides a unique and important setting that supports mental health, while creating time away from technology, building key skills like resilience and confidence in youth and young adults.

To read the full report download the National Impact Study Summary Report.

MARTINSVILLE, Ind., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A new American Camp Association (ACA) study highlights the lasting impacts of camp and the ways that quality camp experiences support young people in developing valuable skills, learning who they are, and preparing for life beyond camp. The National Camp Impact Study, which looks at data gathered between 2017 and 2022, includes both youth and staff research and is the first longitudinal study of its kind.

National Camp Impact Study

"According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children and families across our country have experienced enormous adversity and disruption since the pandemic," said Tom Rosenberg, ACA president/CEO. "Camp plays a vital role in the educational development of the whole child, and that includes mental health. Additionally, working at camp provides professional development and life skills in such a profound, unique way, allowing young adults to enter the workforce with confidence  better equipping them to manage challenges."

The study had three major components: one focused on youth, one focused on staff, and one focused on leadership development through counselor-in-training (CIT) programs and other staff recruitment strategies. An external research team from the University of Utah conducted the National Impact Study with guidance from an all-volunteer Research Advisory Committee and with the participation of 80 camps. While the full report goes into much greater detail, the findings of the study explore three main conclusions:

1. High-quality camp experiences promote youth and young adult outcomes.

Results suggest that high-quality camp experiences promote youth outcomes, with the most compelling evidence emerging in relation to affinity for nature, independence, and social awareness. These results appear to be primarily driven by the unique structure of camp experiences that combine engagement, belonging, and action-based experiential learning at camp. After camp, parents shared that their children had deeper friendships and a stronger sense of community.

2. Summer camp is a beneficial part of child and youth development and complements other life experiences.

Camp experiences support kids' education and academic settings. Further analyses demonstrate improvements in engagement, belonging, supportive youth-adult relationships, and experiential learning.

Additionally, over the five years, 58 percent of youth reported that their time at summer camp helped them appreciate the importance of being present in the moment  specifically, taking time away from technology, developing in-person relationships, taking breaks, and reducing distractions. Why does this matter?

Considering young adult camp staff, findings indicate that working at camp provides unique opportunities compared to other settings, with potential benefits for skill and career development. The originality of camp experiences, along with the opportunity to have a positive effect on the lives of others, creates a meaningful work environment and shows that camp can be a viable stepping-stone in career development. Camp settings allow kids and young adults to experience their own impact on the world as they gain a greater sense of self trust and understanding of themselves.

3. It is critical to make camp experiences more accessible. Many parents and caregivers face significant barriers to sending kids to camp, highlighting the need for greater funding at the local, state, and national level.

Most parents want their kids to have fun, build social skills, and develop independence and other intrapersonal skills at camp. What's more, as their children age, parents shift away from being the primary decision-maker. This shift often includes leveraging their children's interests to drive decisions about summertime activities, including camp.

Many parents face barriers related to access to camp. The research clearly calls for the need to prioritize funding for new pathways to quality camp programming and experiences, making it possible for all families to both enjoy and explore the benefits of camp.

In conclusion, when youth are given the opportunity to attend or work at camp, they build key skills such as independence, social awareness, and perseverance. We now know that positive camp experiences drive outcomes that support learning throughout the school year. As we address our kids' mental health, it is critical that every child and young adult gain access to and benefit from high-quality camp experiences.

About ACA:

The American Camp Association (ACA) is a national organization serving the more than 15,000 year-round and summer camps in the US that annually serve 26 million campers. ACA is committed to collaborating with those who believe in quality camp and outdoor experiences for children, youth, and adults. ACA provides advocacy, evidence-based education, and professional development, and is the only independent national accrediting body for the organized camp experience. ACA accreditation provides public evidence of a camp's voluntary commitment to the health, safety, risk management, and overall well-being of campers and staff. For more information, visit ACAcamps.org.

SOURCE American Camp Association
New preclinical data validate anti-tumor efficacy and intracranial activity of the drug candidate

Bridge submitted an IND application to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in March, and expects to initiate the first-in-human study of BBT-207 this year

SEONGNAM, South Korea and CAMBRIDGE, Mass., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Bridge Biotherapeutics (KQ288330), a clinical-stage biotech company based in South Korea and Cambridge that is advancing novel drugs for cancer, fibrosis, and inflammation, presented a poster with preclinical data updates of its drug candidate BBT-207 at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) 2023 annual meeting, being held from April 14 to 19 in Orlando, Florida.

BBT-207, which has the potential to be a mutant selective and broad-spectrum fourth-generation Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor (EGFR TKI), is the company's first internally discovered drug candidate with potent activity and efficacy against a broad range of EGFR mutations in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), including C797S double mutations which arise after third-generation EGFR TKI treatment.

At last year's AACR annual meeting, the company disclosed initial preclinical data for BBT-207 and discussed the potency of the drug candidate against EGFR C797S double mutations inclusive of Del19/C797S (DC) and L858R/C797S (LC) as well as driver mutations including Del19 and L858R. In this year's poster presentation, the company highlighted BBT-207's intracranial anti-tumor activity, as well as additional data showing the experimental drug's anti-tumor efficacy.

In an in vivo study with an intracranial implantation model of luciferase-labeled PC-9 cells harboring EGFR Del19/T790M/C797S (DTC) mutations, BBT-207 exhibited significantly increased mouse survival rate compared to a control group. In three weeks from the baseline, both of groups treated with low-dose and high-dose of BBT-207 exhibited increased survival rate compared to the control group treated with Osimertinib. On Day 21 of the trial, the BBT-207 low-dose group, the high-dose group, and the control group exhibited 75%, 100% and 25% of the survival rate each. Also, the bioluminescence imaging data collected from the same in vivo study demonstrated that the subjects with comparative treatment showed systemic metastases including brain metastases from Week 2, whereas BBT-207 treatment groups exhibited relatively lower level of metastases.

Following last year's data disclosure, both in vitro and in vivo efficacy data included in this year's poster have shown that BBT-207 boasts robust anti-tumor efficacy. BBT-207 demonstrated dose-dependent tumor regression efficacy against C797S double mutations from in vivo study with Osimertinib-resistant Ba/F3 CDX mouse models. The administration of 40mg/kg for 21 days resulted in significantly regressed tumor growth, with a tumor growth inhibition (TGI) rate of 107% in Del19/C797S (DC) model and 102% in L858R/C797S (LC) model. In DC model, tumor regression (TR) relative to the pre-treatment was observed in 8 out of 8 mice.

Jimmy Jin, M.D., Ph.D., Bridge's vice president and head of discovery biology, said, "We are pleased to present BBT-207's anti-tumor efficacy results and extended survival rates in intracranial disease models. Based on our extensive experience in drug development for lung cancer, we hope that we will soon initiate the first-in-human study for BBT-207 to treat patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer."

In March 2023, the company submitted an Investigational New Drug Application (IND) to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to enter a Phase 1/2 clinical trial of BBT-207.

The AACR Annual Meeting, one of the world's largest academic events in oncology, is held every April for cancer researchers, scientists, and biopharma companies to share the latest cancer-related basic and clinical research. Bridge Biotherapeutics first released preclinical research data on BBT-207 at AACR last year.

A copy of the poster presented at the AACR 2023 annual meeting is available at: http://bit.ly/3nVWprs

The details of the presentation are as follows:

Presentation Title: BBT-207, a Novel, C797X-active, 4th Generation, Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor (TKI) With Broad-Spectrum Activity against Treatment-Emergent as well as Drug-Naive Mutants for the Treatment of NSCLC patients

Session Category: Experimental and Molecular Therapeutics

Session Title: Tyrosine Kinase and Phosphatase Inhibitors 1

Session Date & Time: Tuesday, April 18, 2023, 9:00 a.m. -- 12:30 p.m.

Abstract Number: 4018

About Bridge Biotherapeutics, Inc.

Bridge Biotherapeutics Inc., based in the Republic of Korea, the U.S., and China, is a publicly-traded, clinical-stage biotech company founded in 2015. Bridge Biotherapeutics is engaged in the discovery and development of novel therapeutics, focusing on therapeutic areas with high unmet needs including ulcerative colitis, fibrotic diseases, and cancers. The company is developing BBT-401, a first-in-class Pellino-1 inhibitor for the treatment of ulcerative colitis, BBT-877, a novel autotaxin inhibitor for the treatment of fibrotic diseases including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), and BBT-176, a potent targeted cancer therapy for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with C797S triple EGFR mutations. Learn more at https://www.bridgebiorx.com/en/.

About BBT-207

BBT-207, a novel fourth-generation Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor (EGFR TKI) currently under IND-enabling preclinical development, is the company's first internally discovered drug candidate with potent activity and efficacy against a broad range of EGFR mutations in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), including C797S mutations which arise after third-generation EGFR TKI treatment. An investigational new drug application for the first-in-human study in patients with advanced NSCLC harboring EGFR mutation after treatment with EGFR TKI, was submitted in March, 2023.

SOURCE Bridge Biotherapeutics, Inc.
NEW YORK, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Klein Law Firm announces that a class action complaint has been filed on behalf of shareholders of Dutch Bros Inc. (NYSE: BROS) alleging that the Company violated federal securities laws.

Class Period: March 1, 2022 to May 11, 2022

Lead Plaintiff Deadline: May 1, 2023

No obligation or cost to you.

Learn more about your recoverable losses in BROS:

https://www.kleinstocklaw.com/pslra-1/dutch-bros-class-action-submission-form?id=38298&from=4

Dutch Bros Inc. NEWS - BROS NEWS

CLASS ACTION CASE DETAILS: The filed complaint alleges that Dutch Bros Inc. made materially false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) the Company was experiencing increased costs and expenses, including on dairy; (2) as a result, the Company was experiencing increased margin pressure and decreased profitability in the first quarter of 2022; and (3) as a result of the foregoing, defendant's positive statements about the Company's business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis.

WHAT THIS MEANS TO YOU AS A SHAREHOLDER: If you have suffered a loss in Dutch Bros you have until May 1, 2023 to petition the court for lead plaintiff status. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as a lead plaintiff.

NO COST TO YOU: If you purchased Dutch Bros securities during the relevant period, you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out-of-pocket fees.

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR FINANCIAL INTERESTS: For additional information about the BROS lawsuit, please contact J. Klein, Esq. by telephone at 212-616-4899 or click this link: https://www.kleinstocklaw.com/pslra-1/dutch-bros-class-action-submission-form?id=38298&from=4.

ABOUT KLEIN LAW FIRM

J. Klein, Esq. represents investors and participates in securities litigations involving financial fraud throughout the nation. The Klein Law Firm is a boutique litigation firm with experience in a wide range of areas including securities law, corporate finance and commercial litigation. Since 2011, our experienced attorneys have achieved superior results for our clients with a personalized focus. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.

CONTACT:

J. Klein, Esq.

535 Fifth Avenue

4th Floor

New York City, NY 10017

[email protected]

Telephone: (212) 616-4899

www.kleinstocklaw.com

SOURCE The Klein Law Firm
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. We will not allow anyone to call the shots on our territory, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev said in an interview with Azerbaijan Television in the Salyan district, Trend reports.

"In the two and a half years that have passed since the second Karabakh war, Armenia, its patrons and, at the same time, the countries and forces that support it have clearly witnessed our resolve, determination and strength.

Many important events have taken place over these two and a half years, both in the direction of the Azerbaijan-Armenia state border and, at the same time, in the region under the control of Russia's temporarily deployed peacekeeping forces. We have repeatedly shown that we are the owners of these lands and we will not allow anyone to call the shots on our territory," President Ilham Aliyev emphasized.
Former Deputy Director of Cyber Defense in the Cabinet Office of the U.K will Lead the Firm's London Office

LONDON, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- C5 Capital, a specialist venture capital firm that invests in cybersecurity, space, and advanced nuclear energy, is pleased to announce the appointment of Pete Cooper as Managing Partner and Global Head of Partnerships. In his new role, he will head C5 Capital's London office, where he will also be based.

"We are delighted to welcome Pete Cooper to C5," said Andre Pienaar, Founder and CEO of C5 Capital. "He will drive growth and success for our US portfolio companies in Europe, the Middle East and Africa and internationally. Pete's leadership experience in both cyber and aerospace will be invaluable to our defensive growth investment strategy."

Cooper brings nearly 30 years of national defense experience to the new role. He previously served as Deputy Director of Cyber Defense in the UK Cabinet Office, developing government cyber security policy and strategy. Prior to his role with the Cabinet Office, Cooper spent 24 years in the UK Royal Air Force (RAF), where he started his military career as a fast jet pilot and instructor on the Tornado GR4 and evolved his focus on cyberspace operations.

Having advised numerous aerospace companies on cybersecurity policy and strategy, Cooper's experience in the sector spans commercial, government, military, regulatory, and white hat communities.

"Pete Cooper's record speaks for itself - he makes things happen," said Sir Iain Lobban, C5 Operating Partner and former Director of GCHQ. "His striking combination of vision and energy, clear-sighted focus on making a difference, and proven ability to build powerful partnerships are all qualities which will be a huge asset to C5 and our portfolio companies."

At C5, Cooper will support portfolio company business development and expansion globally. His duties will include building and maintaining partnerships for C5 portfolio companies in both the public and private sectors.

"I am delighted to be joining C5 Capital, where Andre and his team are driven by a shared mission to secure the future in some of the most exhilarating and critical sectors, ranging from space exploration to advanced nuclear technology and cybersecurity," said Cooper. "It's an incredible convergence of innovation, cutting-edge technology, and passionate individuals shaping the future. The prospect of being part of this dynamic team, combined with C5's commitment to creating value beyond profit, fills me with enthusiasm and anticipation for the exciting journey ahead."

About C5 Capital

C5 Capital (C5) is a specialist venture capital firm that invests in cybersecurity, space and energy security. C5's investment strategy is focused on building long-term relationships with innovative and resilient founders that share in our mission to build a secure future. C5 Capital is headquartered in Washington, DC with offices in London, Luxembourg and Vienna. For more information, visit: www.c5capital.com.

Media contact: Mary Magnani, [email protected]

SOURCE C5 Capital
Names Dustin Hollas as Principal, Business Development and Alyssa Fox as Senior Vice President of Marketing, Operating Executive Group

HOUSTON, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Capstreet, a Houston-based lower middle market private equity firm, announced the additions of Dustin Hollas as Principal, Business Development, and Alyssa Fox as Senior Vice President of Marketing, Operating Executive Group.

Mr. Hollas, who will be responsible for sourcing new investment opportunities for Capstreet, joins from Clovis Point Capital, a Houston-based growth equity firm, where he led the firm's deal sourcing activities. Throughout his more than 19 years in the financial services industry, he has built business development programs, created strategic proprietary outreach processes, and led all stages of deal sourcing from initial research of specific industry verticals through due diligence. Mr. Hollas previously managed the Houston market for Comerica Bank's Technology and Life Sciences Group where he specialized in providing lending, treasury and investment solutions to early, middle and late-stage companies. He received a Bachelor of Science in economics from Texas A&M University.

In this new role, Ms. Fox will be responsible for working with the investment team and portfolio companies on brand and go-to-market strategies. Prior to joining Capstreet, Ms. Fox was the vice president of channel marketing at Alert Logic, where she was responsible for driving channel pipeline, building innovative co-marketing campaigns with partners, and managing the company's partner program. Previous roles include senior leadership positions in marketing and content development at multiple private and public software companies, including Graylog Inc., Micro Focus and NetIQ. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from Texas A&M University.

"We believe Dustin's innovative high-velocity approach to sourcing deals and Alyssa's extensive experience in content-based marketing and building scalable demand generation engines will be tremendous assets to the firm as we continue to identify new avenues for growth," said Neil Kallmeyer, Managing Partner at Capstreet. "We are delighted to welcome them both to the Capstreet team."

About Capstreet

Founded in 1990, Capstreet invests in lower middle market software, tech-enabled services, and industrial business services companies. With over 45 platform investments and over 200 add-on acquisitions since inception, Capstreet's investment strategy is focused on utilizing its Capvalue Framework to help accelerate growth and profitability, and help create long term sustainable businesses. The majority of Capstreet's investments have been with founder- or entrepreneur-owned businesses. For more information, visit the Capstreet website, www.capstreet.com.

Contact:

Lambert

Jennifer Hurson, 845-507-0571, jhurson@lambert.com

Joanne Lessner, 212-222-7436, jlessner@lambert.com

SOURCE Capstreet
Independent Survey Shows Female Franchise Owners Are Highly Satisfied with CarePatrol's Performance

PHOENIX, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- CarePatrol, the nation's largest senior care solutions organization, was identified by Franchise Business Review as being one of only 50 franchises to qualify as a 2023 Top Franchise for Women .

"Being acknowledged as a leading franchise for women and knowing that franchisees have a high level of satisfaction within the system is extremely satisfying," said Becky Bongiovanni, co-founder and brand president of CarePatrol. "Our team is dedicated to equipping our franchise partners with the necessary tools and resources to excel in their respective markets and to ensure the well-being and care of their clients."

Franchise Business Review (FBR), a franchise research firm that performs independent surveys of franchisee satisfaction, provides the only rankings of franchises based solely on actual franchisee satisfaction and performance. Franchise Business Review publishes its rankings of top franchises in its annual Guide to Today's Top Franchises , as well as in quarterly reports throughout the year that rank the top franchises in specific sectors.

CarePatrol was among 322 franchise brands, representing over 8,100 female franchise owners, that participated in Franchise Business Review's research on the Top Franchises for Women. CarePatrol's franchisees were surveyed on 33 benchmark questions about their experience and satisfaction regarding critical areas of their franchise systems, including leadership, training & support, financial opportunity, and work/life balance.

CarePatrol's survey data showed:

88% of franchisees "strongly agree" or "agree" that senior management encourages a strong team culture;

94% of franchisees enjoy operating their business;

97% of franchisees would recommend the franchise to others.

"Franchising is a terrific option for women seeking business ownership on a full- or part-time basis," said Michelle Rowan, president and COO of Franchise Business Review. "There are thousands of different franchise opportunities available, so before making the decision to invest in a particular franchise, it's important to research feedback from current female franchise owners on how well the franchise meets their expectations in terms of support, work/life balance, financial opportunity, culture, and other key areas of business ownership. When you look at the brands on this year's list of the Top Franchises for Women, 87% of women said they enjoy owning and operating the business, making them all excellent options for women looking to make the transition to business ownership."

Visit FranchiseBusinessReview.com to see the full list of the 2023 Top Franchises .

To learn more about CarePatrol, visit www.CarePatrol.com/franchising .

About CarePatrol

CarePatrol is the nation's largest senior care solutions franchise. Through more than 170 offices in 35 states, local senior advisors provide a free service in helping families find quality, top-rated assisted living, independent living, memory care, nursing homes and in-home care. Founded in 1993, CarePatrol began franchising in 2009 and is now part of the Best Life Brands family, with private equity backing by The Riverside Company. CarePatrol is proud to have earned the Franchisee Satisfaction Award from Franchise Business Review for 13 years in a row, and has earned placement on the Entrepreneur Franchise 500 list. For more information, visit www.CarePatrol.com/franchising .

About Franchise Business Review

Franchise Business Review (FBR) is a leading market research firm serving the franchise sector. FBR measures the satisfaction and engagement of franchisees and franchise employees and publishes various guides and reports for entrepreneurs considering an investment in a franchise business. Since 2005, FBR has surveyed hundreds of thousands of franchise owners and over 1,200 leading franchise companies. FBR publishes free and unbiased franchisee satisfaction research reports throughout the year online at www.FranchiseBusinessReview.com . To read our publications, visit https://franchisebusinessreview.com/page/publications/.

SOURCE CarePatrol
PENN VALLEY, Pa., April 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- CCA Industries, Inc. (OTC: CAWW), announced today its results for the three months ended February 28, 2023. The results can be found on the chart below.

Net loss was $282,788 for the three months ended February 28, 2023, as compared to net income of $24,577 for the three months ended February 28, 2022. As shown in the chart below, the EBITDA for the first quarter of fiscal 2023 was a loss of $298,497 as compared to EBITDA income of 68,493 for the first quarter of fiscal 2022.

Christopher Dominello, Chief Executive Officer commented, "As noted in our last press release, our focus this year is to increase the Company's sales. It was clear that this would be a challenge in the face of years of declining sales. While we were disappointed with the first quarter of 2023 results, we are beginning to see an improvement in sales. As we have previously disclosed, the Porcelana brand did not resume shipping one item until the end of January 2023 which impacted first quarter sales. The Company also expected that the sales of its Plus White whitening kit to Walmart would resume in the first quarter, however the orders did not resume until March 2023, which further impacted first quarter sales. We have good news to report as our Amazon and online sales have increased 72.4% in the first quarter of 2023 as compared to the first quarter of 2022. We remain cautiously optimistic that our sales will continue to increase putting the Company on the path back to profitability."

Further information, including the Unaudited Financial Statement for the first quarter ended February 28, 2023, the Audited Financial Statements for the year ended November 30, 2022 and the Quarterly Disclosure Statement filed with the OTC, may be found on the Company's investor web site: www.ccainvestor.com

CCA Industries, Inc. manufactures and markets health and beauty aids, each under its individual brand name. The products include, principally, "Plus White" toothpastes and teeth whiteners, "Bikini Zone" medicated topical and shave gels, "Nutra Nail" nail care treatments, "Porcelana" skin care products, "Scar Zone" scar treatment products, "Sudden Change" anti-aging skin care products, brands, "Hair Off" depilatory products, "Solar Sense" sun care products and "Neutein" brain health supplements.

Statements contained in the news release that are not historical facts are forward looking statements as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, which would cause actual results to differ materially, from estimated results. No assurance can be given that the results in any forward-looking statement will be achieved and actual results could be affected by one or more factors, which could cause them to differ materially. For these statements, we claim the protection of the safe harbor for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act.

CCA INDUSTRIES, INC. Financial Results (Unaudited)



Three Months Ended

February 28, 2023

February 28, 2022 Revenues $ 2,467,726

$ 3,046,254







Net Income $ (282,788)

$ 24,577







Earnings Per Share:





Basic $ (0.04)

$ - Diluted $ (0.04)

$ -







Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding:





Basic 7,561,684

7,561,684 Diluted 7,561,684

7,659,749







EBITDA * $ (298,497)

$ 68,493







* Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization











Reconciliation of Net Income to EBITDA:











Net Income $ (282,788)

$ 24,577 Provision for income taxes (65,962)

22,403 Interest expense 48,954

17,390 Depreciation and Amortization 1,299

4,123 EBITDA $ (298,497)

$ 68,493

SOURCE CCA Industries, Inc.
Herman Miller unveils a specially curated exhibit and limited-edition poster reprint celebrating its rich graphic design history in its Milan showroom in the Brera Design District during Salone del Mobile

MILAN, Italy, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- To launch the celebration of the 100th anniversary of its brand name, Herman Miller has taken a deep dive into its rich archive of graphic design to bring its story of design authorship and cultural influence to life. Throughout its history, Herman Miller has worked with many graphic designers and artists who came to define the look and feel of their respective eras. This visual journeywhich begins in Milan and will travel to Chicago for MillerKnoll Design Days in Junecelebrates their work, and the boldness, rigor, and joy innate to the brand.

Starting in the early modern era with the hiring of Gilbert Rohde in 1930 as Herman Miller's first design director, founder D.J. De Pree made a pivotal step in transitioning the company from traditional to modern design. Rohde's architectural training and Bauhaus education brought a new rigor to Herman Miller's traditional furniture, while his wife Peggy Rohde designed marketing materials that depicted and highlighted the new direction.

Joining Herman Miller in 1945, outsize personality George Nelson cemented both storytelling and design partnershipswith the Eames Office, Alexander Girard, and othersas essential parts of the Herman Miller brand. Under Nelson's design direction, graphic pioneers like Irving Harper (responsible for the "free" M in Herman Miller's logo to this day) and Tomiko Miho flourished.

Coinciding with the Pop Art movement of the 1960s and the artistic liberation of the 1970s, a shared spirit of idealism and playfulness carried through from the Swiss-influenced, Helvetica-heavy tenure of designer John Massey to his protege, Steve Frykholm, whose exuberant Summer Picnic series came to typify the company's graphic identity throughout the 1970s.

In the 1980s and '90s, Barbara Loveland and Linda Powell steered the company through a postmodern period of design leadership. And as Herman Miller increased its international footprint, its graphics reached every corner of the globe, from traveling exhibitions to a system of illustration depicting a new theory on harmonious workplace environments called Living Office.

Finally, one cannot discuss graphics at Herman Miller without Alexander Girard, founding director of the company's textile division. Throughout his career, Girard used graphics to create motifs with meaning, and his pattern language would reach its apex in the early 1970s with a series of Environmental Enrichment Panelsa selection of which will be on display in the Milan showroom exhibition.

During Salone, Herman Miller is making available for sale limited-edition prints of the John Massey-designed Eames Soft Pad Group poster. Originally produced in 1970, this piece is representative of the sharply defined style Massey brought to Herman Miller's communications. Printed at the original 32" x 48" (91.44 x 121.92 cm) size, the prints are hand numbered in an edition of 500. The print embodies this statement from Massey: "I always tried to build into each piece a life beyond the purpose for which it was created."

To commemorate the brand's centenary, Phaidon is also releasing a special edition of its bestselling monograph Herman Miller: A Way of Living. With a new clothbound cover and updated timeline, this unmatched collection of brand stories, historical artifacts, documents, and photographs provides an expanded view of Herman Miller's history.

To see the exhibition in person during Salone, visit the Herman Miller showroom in Milan at Corso Giuseppe Garibaldi 70 in the Brera Design District from Tuesday, April 18 to Saturday, April 22 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. To purchase a copy of the special edition of Herman Miller: A Way of Living, visit a Herman Miller retail location or the Herman Miller online store.

About Herman Miller

Over the last century, Herman Miller has been guided by a commitment to problem-solving designs that inspire the best in people. Along the way, Herman Miller has forged critical relationships with the most visionary designers of the day, from mid-century greats like George Nelson, the Eames Office, and Isamu Noguchi, to research-oriented visionaries like Robert Propst and Bill Stumpfand with today's groundbreaking studios like Industrial Facility and Studio 7.5. From the birth of ergonomic furniture to manufacturing some of the twentieth century's most iconic pieces, Herman Miller has pioneered original, timeless design that makes an enduring impact, while building a lasting legacy of design, innovation, and social good. Herman Miller is a part of MillerKnoll, a collective of dynamic brands that comes together to design the world we live in. For more information, visit hermanmiller.com/about.

Resources

Herman Miller's Milan showroom photos, credit Jens Passoth.

SOURCE Herman Miller
New multilingual campaign recognizes the individual characteristics of everyone's family and friends

HOUSTON, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- As America continues to grow in diversity, multicultural lifestyles and flavors brought by other cultures continue driving all aspects of American life. Celebrating the varied flavor palette of a new America, Tajin, the #1 best-selling chili lime seasoning in the USA and Mexico, announced today the launch of its latest brand campaign, "Tajin, as unique as you". Consumers across the nation have embraced the unique, enchanting flavor and versatility of Tajin, as the perfect condiment for anything from fruits and vegetables to beverages and main dishes. Tajin has become a limitless creative spark that invites consumers to explore and create new ways of enjoying its tangy flavor profile, made out of mild chili peppers, sea salt, and lime. The new campaign will air nationally, featuring Tajin Clasico seasoning and its two distinct mild hot sauces, Tajin Mild Hot Sauce and Tajin Fruity Chamoy Sauce.

Tajin's Brand Leaders, Luis Alfaro and Juan Limon shared, "'Tajin, as unique as you' reflects the core attitudes and lifestyles of our fans. Despite the number of options on supermarket shelves, our research indicates that fans are driven by Tajin's unique flavor profile and high quality. As people gather in everyday gatherings with family and friends, they discover that each person taps into the versatility of Tajin and uncovers their own way of adapting its use to best fit their palate, which sparked the concept behind the campaign," emphasized Alfaro. "We welcome their individuality and creative spirit as Tajin makes good food taste even better and better food inspires better moments. Or as the campaign proposes, Tajin makes what's 'Bueno, More Bueno'," added Limon

The campaign, created by Tajin's U.S. AOR, d exposito & Partners (DEX), consists of two distinct 30s TV spots, one for the diverse mass audience and another for Spanish-dominant Hispanics, each with their corresponding 15s ad versions. Each taps insights and cues in storytelling to enhance cultural relevance and engagement, but both feature a glimpse of "everyone's" extended family members, reflecting the new Mainstream in American culture and the reality of Tajin's diverse followers.

The Spanish-language spot entitled "Comida en familia" showcases a multigenerational Hispanic family gathered around the dinner table as they demonstrate how each person enjoys Tajin. In it, characters like "La Jefa" and "La Tia Cool" exemplify the importance and admiration of women within the Hispanic family nucleus, while the "Spanglish" teen represents the now and the future, and the "Salsero" the one who sparks some fun-filled time at all family gatherings.

The English-language spot, entitled "Friends Gathering" opens with "The party-starter" and features an ethnically diverse group of friends at a BBQ. In this version some folks are very familiar with Tajin, "The Adventurer" explores new ways of consuming it, and like "The First-Timer" some are trying it  and loving it - for the first time, seduced and enchanted by its unique flavor profile.

As multicultural insights drive consumer preferences, especially in food, strategies and stories must be customized to ensure authenticity and cultural relevance to drive brand preference among the various ethnic segments. For Tajin, the campaign needed to connect with the Hispanic audience that knows and is familiar with the brand and use of the product, as well as with the broader audience who discovers the uniqueness and versatility of the product.

Paco Olavarrieta, Chief Creative Officer at DEX, noted, "Our agency operates under the moniker, 'The New American Agency,' as we embrace the ongoing emergence of diverse communities across the U.S. and their desire to celebrate the flavors of their own cultures or experiment with new ones. Tajin is a brand that transcends cultures, ignites creativity, and brings a bit of excitement to everyone. This new campaign is anchored in the insights of the diverse fans that have embraced the brand and we trust that the current and the new ones identify themselves with the people in these spots."

In addition to the TV :30s and :15s commercials, the "Tajin, as unique as you" campaign will have digital, social media and POS extensions. The campaign was developed by Yury Vargas, Creative Director, and Flavio Alvarez, Senior Copywriter at DEX.

For more about Tajin and its products, visit www.Tajin.com

About Tajin

Industrias Tajin is a Mexican-owned company and market leader in both Mexico and the United States in chili products, in addition to being one of the most important brands in producing and commercializing products derived from chili worldwide. Today, it has a presence in more than 65 countries around the world. Tajin was founded in 1985, surprising consumers with the perfect blend of mild chili peppers, lime, and sea salt. In 1993, Tajin made its first export to the United States, and Tajin International Corporation was established in Houston, TX, from where all commercial activity of the brand in the U.S. is managed. The brand arrived in Central American and European markets in 2006. For more information visit www.Tajin.com .

SOURCE Tajin USA
NANJING, China, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Recently, Chamlion, which focuses on the digitalization of the full process of dentistry, announced that it has completed the B round fundraising of 236 million yuan. This round of fundraising was led by 3H Health, followed by Vertex Ventures China, existing shareholder Zhencheng Capital, and Taihe Capital served as the financial advisor. The fundraising will be mainly used for the further expansion of the company's domestic and overseas business, including the in-depth promotion and upgrade of their existing product line, to consolidate the company's leading position in the field of dental digitalization.

Metal 3D Printers

Prior to this, Chamlion has successively secured tens of millions of yuan in the A round fundraising invested by Shandong Yinling Industry Investment Co., Ltd. and the 140 million yuan in the A+ round fundraising exclusively invested by Zhencheng Capital. In addition to the B round fundraising, the company's cumulative fundraising exceeds 400 million yuan.

Chamlion focuses on realizing the digitalization of the entire process of dentistry with a new generation of technology, and provides one-stop dental 3D printing digital solutions. In May 2021, the company completed rebranding from "Chamlion Laser" to "Chamlion Technology", and at the same time started an in-depth business model transformation, changing from a traditional 3D printing equipment supplier to a cloud printing service model. Chamlion applies the hardware as a service (HaaS) model in the field of dental 3D printing, intelligently connects 3D printers to the Internet, and builds a large-scale distributed dental manufacturing cloud factory, connecting the data-design-manufacturing process of dental processing, and building a digital service platform for the full process of dentistry.

Technology drives the continuing upgrade of the digital workflow

Benefiting from its solid R&D capability, Chamlion empowers the entire chain of dental processing with superior technology to achieve digital upgrades. Chamlion has developed DLP resin 3D printers to replace traditional manual plaster models; Chamlion applied metal 3D printers to replace manual casting processes; Chamlion has developed heat treatment furnaces, polishing machines and other post-processing equipment to greatly shorten post-processing time and fully cover the entire process of dental production and processing. At present, the installed capacity of Chamlion's metal 3D printers has exceeded 1,000, leading the dental 3D metal printing market.

Through constant customer feedback, Chamlion recognizes the need to develop intelligent software solutions to meet the needs of highly developed 3D workflows and the ever-sophisticated hardware in the market place. Chamlion has successively developed 3D printing control software, 3D printing data processing software, and AI intelligent design software for dental production. Among them, the dental AI intelligent design software, based on artificial intelligence and big data, adopting graphic recognition algorithms and greatly improving the design efficiency through automatic matching. What is more, based on the shortage of skilled dental design and data processing workers in the industry, Chamlion has established a design team and data processing team of hundreds of people, built a global data center, and provided dental crowns and bridges for B-end dental lab clients around the world, offering digital design services for dental products such as crowns, partial frameworks, invisible orthodontics, etc.

In addition to software and hardware, materials are another core element that restricts the digitization of dental processing. Chamlion is making rapid and deep progress in the field of advanced materials in dentistry, gradually laying out the upstream raw material market, independently researching and developing metal powder, photopolymer resin, polishing salt and other materials, and promoting the construction of Chamlion's entire industrial chain eco-system.

Using cloud service platform to create a new eco-system of digital dentistry

At present, 3D printing technologies applied in dentistry mainly include 2 categories. Metal 3D printing is mainly used to manufacture metal crowns, partial frameworks etc., and DLP resin printers are mainly used to make dental models, temporary crowns, implant guides, invisible orthodontic models, etc. According to the TMR report, by the end of 2025, the global dental 3D printing market will reach 3.441 billion USD, an increase of 16.5%. Obviously, 3D printing has brought opportunities for digitization of the industry. With the increasing maturity of 3D printing technology, the application of 3D printing technology in the entire dental field will be more in-depth and extensive, driving the digital, standardized and large-scale development of the dental industry.

Relying on the "Internet" + 3D printing, with Chamlion cloud service platform as the core, and in-house dental software, equipment, and materials as the cornerstone, Chamlion creates a new digital dentistry eco-system for dental processing. Rather than the digital upgrade of a single element, the cloud factory model can realize the continuous optimization and upgrade of software, hardware and materials in the eco-system, and also realize the coordinated development of the upstream and downstream industrial chains. Moreover, it can realize the integration of resources, the substantial improvement in efficiency, and the significant reduction of costs.

At present, digitalization has become the consensus of upstream and downstream enterprises in the dental industry, and 3D printing is the best technology to realize this. Chamlion cloud platform can provide inclusive dental 3D printing services. Users can choose digital design, data processing, 3D printing, post-processing and other services on demand without huge equipment and labor cost. Users just need to send task requirements through the Chamlion cloud platform, and the digital design team can carry out industrial CAD design and data processing online. The intelligent production scheduling system of the cloud platform will assign the printing tasks to the optimal cloud factory to complete the production of semi-finished or finished products. Finally, through a smart logistics system, the products can be quickly delivered to users. It is reported that Chamlion has entered 27 countries, and has established more than 260 cloud factories around the world, with a daily production of 80,000 dental crowns and 8,000 partial frameworks, providing services for 1,500 dental labs.

Based in China and with a global layout, Chamlion has successively established branches in Vietnam, the United States, France, Turkey, built sales networks and companies covering many countries and regions around the world, and established localized and digital manufacturing centers. It is estimated that by the end of 2023, the number of global cloud factories will exceed 300, providing dental products to 30 million users around the world.

With the digital service platform as the core, Chamlion is driven by technology R&D and distributed manufacturing cloud factories. With horizontal expansion, Chamlion continues to upscale its superior products and services. Starting from removable partial dentures, it expands into resin teeth, zirconia blocks, invisible orthodontics and other new dental products. It also vertically extends the upstream and downstream industrial chains, continues to use technology to drive the upgrade of the entire industrial chain, enhancing the overall competitive advantage, and striving to build a new digital dental eco-system and leads the new digital wave of the industry.

3H Health Investment said: The dental industry is facing opportunistic transformation, and the global dental supply chain is developing in the direction of digitalization, intelligence and intensification. Digging deep into vertical scenarios and providing complete software and hardware solutions is the cornerstone of dental supply chain integration. Chamlion focuses on dental processing scenarios and is committed to providing digital and intelligent overall solutions for the dental industry. It adopts the cloud factory model to empower the global dental processing market and improve the overall level of the industry.

3H Health is very pleased to have the opportunity to become the lead investor of this round fundraising, and firmly supports Chamlion to deeply participate in the structural opportunity of the integration of the global dental supply chain with innovative solutions of "Intelligent Manufacturing in China". With the efforts of the company's professional team, we are optimistic that Chamlion will become a leader in supply chain integration and digital processing in the global dental industry, and 3H Health looks forward to creating a new chapter in the future dental industry with Chamlion.

Zhijin Xia, managing partner of Vertex Ventures China, said that with the self-developed 3D printing and digital design technology, as well as the rapidly expanding business model, Chamlion will be able to greatly improve the efficiency of the dental processing industry and contribute to the oral health of Chinese people. With the simultaneous expansion of the company both at home and abroad, we believe that Chamlion will become a great enterprise leading the transformation of the industry.

Jianwei Li, founding partner of Zhencheng Capital, said: Since the beginning of the A+ round of cooperation between Zhencheng Capital and Chamlion team, the management team has been firmly promoting 3D printing services and digital transformation of dentistry, and has achieved good results so far: The service income has increased by more than 10 times. Zhencheng's domestic business is developing rapidly, and is also laying out the global market, and the competitive advantage is more obvious. We welcome the B-round investors 3H Health and Vertex Ventures China to join us. We believe that with the support of more high-quality investors, Chamlion will be able to go further in the direction of dental digitalization, 3D printing service and globalization.

SOURCE Chamlion
SHANGHAI, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On April 18, the highly anticipated 2023 Shanghai International Automotive Industry Exhibition opened in Shanghai, China. Changan Auto joined the exhibition with the theme of "Advancing in All Domains, Changan Reaches the World" and released its heavyweight overseas strategy Program Pacific, pressing the "fast-forward button" on its global expansion.

Changan Automobile releases its overseas strategy Program Pacific at the Shanghai Auto Show

In recent years, "the Belt and Road" initiative has been guiding Chinese enterprises to practice openness and cooperation and win-win development. After years of hard work, China's automotive industry has gained influence worldwide. Leading Chinese automobile enterprises are capable and responsible of leading the upstream and downstream of the industry chain to explore new territories and thrive globally.

Meanwhile, a full range of new energy products of Changan Auto was displayed at the Shanghai Auto Show, including S7, SL03, UNI-V iDD, UNI-K iDD, Z6 iDD, and Lumin. The architectures of the concept cars VIIA and SDA were also showcased, demonstrating the company's strong technical reserves and forward-looking vision, which solidifies the construction of a world-class automobile brand.

The year 2023 marks a pivotal year for Changan Auto to achieve global development. With a greater openness to collaboration, Changan Auto, anchored in China and extending to the world, is dedicated to creating a "Chinese emblem" that shines brightly on the global automotive stage.

SOURCE Changan Automobile
SYDNEY and GEORGE TOWN, Cayman Islands, April 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Channel Capital Cayman a company within the Channel Capital Group, today announced the expansion of its Cayman Islands team with the appointment of Martin Laufer as Fund Director.

Martin Laufer, Fund Director, Channel Capital Cayman

Channel Capital Cayman provides a high quality governance service to investment funds domiciled primarily in the United States, Cayman Islands and other offshore financial centres. The business was established to leverage the deep and specialised experience of its team, and to assist with ongoing compliance with regulatory obligations through a trusted and highly personalised independent director service.

As an experienced independent director, Martin has been providing fund governance and related services to a variety of offshore investment funds since 2017. Prior to joining Channel Capital Cayman, Martin worked for the Maples Group where he served as an independent director covering a wide range of hedge fund, private equity and infrastructure strategies. From the period 2010 to 2017, Martin was a Fiduciary Fund Manager at BNY Mellon Fund Management (Cayman) Limited where he provided fiduciary and administration services to a large portfolio of Cayman unit trusts, hedge funds and funds of funds, and spent time as a senior client accountant at CIBC Bank and Trust Company (Cayman) Limited. Before moving to the Cayman Islands in 2007, Martin worked as a senior tax consultant at KPMG Argentina. Martin is a certified public accountant, a CFA charterholder and a Certified ESG Analyst (CESGA).

The Cayman Islands is a world leader in the establishment of offshore funds due to its tax-neutrality, stable economy, sophisticated banking sector and professional financial service industry. Approximately 70% of non-US domiciled alternative investment funds managed by US SEC-registered advisors are domiciled in the Cayman Islands.

"We are excited to have Martin join the business," said Mark Cook, Executive Director, Channel Capital Cayman.

"Martin's experience has given him valuable insights into the fund governance space, compliance issues and new trends such as ESG investing that are critical to managing offshore investment vehicles in a responsible manner. He will add depth to our governance platform and will work closely with our clients to help them navigate the ever-changing and complex investment and regulatory environment."

Fund Director at Channel Capital Cayman, Martin Laufer, said: "I am very pleased to be joining Mark and the rest of the Channel Capital Cayman team. It's critical to stay up to date with regulatory changes and emerging industry trends and I look forward to providing our clients with the guidance and support they need to manage and oversee their fund investments effectively."

About Channel Capital Cayman

Channel Capital Cayman is an independent directorship service provider to global hedge and private equity funds and investment vehicles primarily domiciled in the Cayman Islands. This expertise helps to strengthen governance by striking the right balance between investors, fund sponsors and other stakeholders. Our services are tailored to the needs of each board, and we provide oversight and related support services to help boards become more effective.

Our team of directors offers a comprehensive and objective service that covers the entire life cycle of a fund, from pre-launch to maturity. We provide an independent, experienced perspective to boards, offering strategic guidance while ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including anti-money laundering, tax transparency and other governance complexities.

Channel Capital Cayman is part of the Channel Capital Group  a multi-partner asset management business with staff across six global locations and US$23 billion of client assets serviced as of March 31, 2023.

https://www.channelcapital.ky

SOURCE Channel Capital Cayman
CHICAGO, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Cision, the leading global communications and media intelligence platform, is pleased to announce the appointment of Antony Cousins as Executive Director of AI Strategy, effective immediately.

Antony Cousins as Executive Director of AI Strategy at Cision

Cousins joined Cision through the acquisition of Factmata in November 2022. He is an accredited public relations practitioner who honed his PR and communications expertise in a variety of roles in UK Government organizations, including the Ministry of Defence, Home Office and Cabinet Office. Notably, Cousins provided press relations for British Forces deployed in Afghanistan, worked in counterterrorism and in strategy across the Middle East during the Arab Spring or "social media revolutions."

After his period of public sector service, inspired by the power of social media, Cousins spent a decade in artificial intelligence technology leadership roles, including serving as the CEO of Factmata, an AI marketing technology company focused on identifying fake news and other forms of harmful online content.

In the newly created role of Executive Director for AI Strategy, Cousins will be responsible for advancing Cision's AI strategy. This agenda includes rapidly integrating Factmata's technologies for detecting harmful online content and narrative monitoring into Cision's new products and platforms. He will also oversee the development of powerful generative textdriven solutions with the reliability that corporate, government and agency communications teams demand, and will ensure that Cision continues to develop AI solutions responsibly and ethically, ensuring compliance with regulatory frameworks emerging in the US, UK, Europe and beyond.

Of his new role, Cousins said, "Cision is the only company in the industry with both the breadth and depth of contextually relevant data as well as the in-house engineering and communications industry expertise to responsibly deliver reliable, truly value-generating AI-enhanced services to our customers. I look forward to helping our global PR and communications clients take best advantage of the opportunities AI provides."

Cousins will also be playing a role in amplifying the communications industry's perspective in AI working groups through his recent appointment as co-chair of the Association for Measurement and Evaluation of Communications (AMEC) tech hub. He also has a long-standing role as member of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) London Group. Additionally, Cousins is a member of the UK's All-Party Parliamentary Group on Artificial Intelligence (APPG AI) and, through Factmata, is a founding member of the Credibility Coalition and UK Safety Technology Networks.

These leadership roles will help Cousins ensure that Cision, and the broader communications industry, continues to benefit from the rapid application of revolutionary technologies while respecting and protecting the power of public relations professionals, and the institutions they represent, to shape public dialogue.

Jay Webster, Chief Product Officer at Cision, commented, "I could not think of a better person to lead Cision, and the industry more broadly, in the application of AI. With his first-hand communications and technology experience, Antony deeply understands the challenges and the opportunities that AI provides to the discipline of communications and media intelligence."

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.

Contact Information:



For media inquiries, please contact:

Cision Public Relations

[email protected]

SOURCE Cision Ltd.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. The separatists  this group of clowns must finally understand that they cannot play with our patience, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev said in an interview with Azerbaijan Television in the Salyan district, Trend reports.

The separatists, who are currently inventing some fictitious names for themselves  one calls himself a president, another calls himself a minister, another one calls himself a speaker of some parliament  this group of clowns must finally understand that they cannot play with our patience. We have tried to explain to them many times in different ways that they will either follow our word or they will be rejected from there and leave the Armenians there, who have actually become their hostages and captives, in peace. I am sure that the majority of the Armenian population currently living in Karabakh is ready to accept Azerbaijani citizenship. Simply put, these leeches, these predatory animals wont let them do that. They won't let these people live comfortably, having kept them as hostages for 30 years. Therefore, my position is this. Let everyone hear it  both the Armenian leaders and the forces standing behind them today. No-one can influence our will. We have proven it  both during and after the war. If necessary, we will prove it again in any form, President Ilham Aliyev said.
WINDSOR LOCKS, Conn., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- CLEAR (NYSE: YOU) today announced the launch of its identity verification technology at Bradley International Airport (BDL), bringing frictionless and predictable travel experiences to Connecticut.

"At Bradley International Airport, we are always looking for innovative approaches to the traveler journey," said Kevin A. Dillon, A.A.E., Executive Director of the Connecticut Airport Authority. "With our focus on modernizing the whole travel experience, while maintaining the integrity of safety and security protocols, we are thrilled to introduce CLEAR's biometric technology to our traveler base. The addition of CLEAR now offers another convenient, time-saving travel option in our growing menu of services and amenities."

Today's launch represents continued growth in CLEAR's national footprint, where it serves a total of 52 airports and over 15 million members. CLEAR already serves 9 of BDL's top 10 domestic destinations, allowing members traveling through BDL to use CLEAR on both ends of their journey. Members use CLEAR's network of dedicated lanes to verify their identity with their eyes or fingers, replacing the need to take out their wallet and driver's license. After verification, a CLEAR Ambassador escorts members through the dedicated lane and directly to TSA physical security, saving them time waiting in line at the security checkpoint. CLEAR's launch at BDL is expected to create 23 jobs and generate approximately $1.2 million in local economic activity every year.

"CLEAR has officially landed in Connecticut and we're excited to partner with BDL to make air travel easier, faster and more secure for Connecticut travelers," said CLEAR CEO Caryn Seidman-Becker.

CLEAR Plus  an opt-in membership that provides access to CLEAR's expedited identity verification lanes  costs about $16 a month billed annually, with discounts available for Delta Air Lines, United Airlines and American Express members. Newly enrolling active military, veterans, and government officials are also eligible for discounted memberships, and additional family members can be added to an existing CLEAR Plus account for just $60 per adult per year.

About CLEAR

CLEAR's mission is to create frictionless experiences. With more than 15 million members and a growing network of partners across the world, CLEAR's identity platform is transforming the way people live, work, and travel. Whether you are traveling, at the stadium, or on your phone, CLEAR connects you to the things that make you, you  making everyday experiences easier, more secure, and friction-free. CLEAR is committed to privacy done right. Members are always in control of their own information, and we never sell member data. For more information, visit clearme.com .

About Bradley International Airport

Bradley International Airport (BDL) is New England's second-largest airport. Recognized nationally by leading travel publications for its ease of travel, Bradley International Airport is ready to welcome you with new nonstops and expanded services. The award-winning airport is operated by the Connecticut Airport Authority, and its operations are entirely self-funded. The airport contributes nearly $3.6 billion to the regional economy. For more info, visit www.flyBDL.org .

SOURCE CLEAR
SAN FRANCISCO, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The global construction adhesives market size is expected to reach USD 14.76 billion at CAGR of 4.9% by 2030, as per the new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The emergence of COVID-19 affected the construction industry around the world in 2020, and its impact continued in 2021 and 2022 as well in certain countries.

Key Industry Insights & Findings from the report:

Polyvinyl acetate resins witnessed the fastest growth rate with a CAGR of nearly 5.9%. These adhesives do not contain solvents and are therefore useful to consolidate porous construction materials such as sandstone.

Reactive & other technology witnessed the fastest growth rate with a CAGR of nearly 5.2%. These technologies exhibit long-term durability and high bond strength under severe environmental conditions.

Commercial applications witnessed the fastest growth rate with a CAGR of nearly 5.4%. The segment growth over the anticipated period is anticipated to profit from the rising number of commercial buildings, such as pharmacies, grocery stores, and large box stores that have been constructed over the past few years.

The Asia Pacific region witnessed the fastest growth rate with a CAGR of nearly 5.1%. The market is growing due to factors such as strong economic development coupled with population expansion in countries such as China and India is expected to increase construction spending in Asia Pacific over the forecasted period.

region witnessed the fastest growth rate with a CAGR of nearly 5.1%. The market is growing due to factors such as strong economic development coupled with population expansion in countries such as and is expected to increase construction spending in over the forecasted period. Henkel AG & Co. KGaA, Dow, 3M , Arkema, and H.B. Fuller companies dominated the market with their continuous involvement in acquisitions, partnerships, and manufacturing facility expansions.

Read 120 page market research report, "Construction Adhesives Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Resin Type (Acrylic, Polyurethanes, Epoxy), By Technology, By Application, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2023 - 2030", published by Grand View Research.

Construction Adhesives Market Growth & Trends

Construction represents close to a 13% share of the global GDP. Thus, a short impact on the sector affects the materials demand, thereby reducing the growth of the market. Most of the construction sites during the first half of 2020 faced numerous challenges associated with operations and supply chains. However, the market started recovering in 2021. Construction spending on infrastructure projects is likely to rise in 2022, on account of the passage of public and private investments.

Focus on sustainable construction and infrastructure projects is anticipated to assist the market growth during the coming years. Governments may provide stimulation to the economy by encouraging carbon reduction targets. These incentives might come in the form of direct public funds and policy changes. Companies expect demand for sustainable buildings and communities that promote healthier lifestyles, which is anticipated to drive the demand for construction adhesives.

The adoption of digitization and emerging technologies is another key factor, which is likely to provide a boost to the building & construction sector and associated materials over the long term. Contractors are likely to use remote collaboration at various stages of projects using digital models. Distributors of adhesives and other building materials are focusing on minimal physical interactions, especially with e-commerce sites for which sales teams can handle customers and orders with digital tools.

Investments in construction and infrastructure projects are anticipated to drive market growth in the long run. For instance, the Indian government has plans to double its infrastructure investments in sectors such as communication, commercial infrastructure, energy, and water & sanitation over the next five years, as of 2021. Also, as per the National Infrastructure Pipeline, there are over 6,800 identified projects worth USD 15 million in the country. Projects such as airport development in smart cities and Pradhan Mantri Sadak Yojna Project are likely to offer new opportunities for market players.

Construction Adhesives Market Segmentation

Grand View Research has segmented the global construction adhesives market report based on resin type, technology, application, and region:

Construction Adhesives Market - Resin Type Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

Acrylic

Polyurethanes

Polyvinyl Acetate

Epoxy

Others

Construction Adhesives Market - Technology Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

Water-based

Solvent-based

Reactive & Others

Construction Adhesives Market - Application Type Outlook (Volume, Kilotons; Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

Residential

Commercial

Industrial

Construction Adhesives Market - Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Thousand; Volume, Tons, 2018 - 2030)

North America

U.S.



Canada



Mexico

Europe

Germany



U.K.



France

Asia Pacific

China



India



Japan

Central & South America

Brazil

Middle East & Africa

& Saudi Arabia



South Africa

List of Key Players in Construction Adhesives Market

H.B. Fuller Company

3M

Sika AG

Dow Inc.

Bostik (Arkema Group)

Henkel AG & Co. KGaA

Franklin International, Inc.

Avery Dennison Corporation

Illinois Tool Works Incorporation

DAP Products Inc.

Check out more market research studies published by Grand View Research:

Composite Adhesive Market - The global composite adhesive market size is expected to reach USD 5.07 billion by 2030, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc., expanding at a CAGR of 4.7% during the forecast period. The increasing investments in the construction & infrastructure industry and favorable government policies propelling the manufacturing sector are driving the market growth.

- The global composite adhesive market size is expected to reach by 2030, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc., expanding at a CAGR of 4.7% during the forecast period. The increasing investments in the construction & infrastructure industry and favorable government policies propelling the manufacturing sector are driving the market growth. Hot Melt Adhesives Market - The global hot melt adhesives market size is expected to reach USD 10.71 billion by 2028, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. It is expected to expand at a CAGR of 4.8% from 2021 to 2028. Increasing demand for hot melt adhesives in packaging applications, including cardboard and corrugated boards, is anticipated to propel market growth over the coming years.

- The global hot melt adhesives market size is expected to reach by 2028, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. It is expected to expand at a CAGR of 4.8% from 2021 to 2028. Increasing demand for hot melt adhesives in packaging applications, including cardboard and corrugated boards, is anticipated to propel market growth over the coming years. Epoxy Adhesives Market - The global epoxy adhesives market size is expected to reach USD 10.5 billion by 2028, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The market is expected to expand at a CAGR of 5.6% from 2021 to 2028. Increasing investments in electric vehicles (EVs) and solar and wind energy industries are the prominent factors attributed to the market growth during the projected period.

Browse through Grand View Research's Advanced Interior Materials Industry Research Reports.

About Grand View Research

Grand View Research, U.S.-based market research and consulting company, provides syndicated as well as customized research reports and consulting services. Registered in California and headquartered in San Francisco, the company comprises over 425 analysts and consultants, adding more than 1200 market research reports to its vast database each year. These reports offer in-depth analysis on 46 industries across 25 major countries worldwide. With the help of an interactive market intelligence platform, Grand View Research Helps Fortune 500 companies and renowned academic institutes understand the global and regional business environment and gauge the opportunities that lie ahead.

Contact:

Sherry James

Corporate Sales Specialist, USA

Grand View Research, Inc.

Phone: +1-415-349-0058

Toll Free: 1-888-202-9519

Email: [email protected]

Web: https://www.grandviewresearch.com

Grand View Compass | Astra ESG Solutions

Follow Us: LinkedIn | Twitter

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/661327/Grand_View_Research_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Grand View Research, Inc.
New growth-focused CEO set to build upon company's momentum, achieve next level of success while enabling DevSecOps teams to leverage Shift Smart approach to software development

LOS ALTOS, Calif., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Contrast Security (Contrast), the code security platform built for developers and trusted by security, today announced the appointment of Rick Fitz as the company's new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Fitz's deep software development expertise and proven track record of scaling businesses will enable him to lead the company into its next growth phase while attaining new market leadership. Outgoing CEO Alan Naumann will remain on the company's board as an advisor and will serve as President while helping Fitz quickly ramp into the CEO role.

"Application Security Testing (AST) is a fragmented market where organizations use various approaches to find and eliminate vulnerabilities in their software architectures. It lacks innovation, which leaves the development teams frustrated and enterprises exposed," said Fitz. "My background enables me to understand the value of inspecting an application from the inside out, which is why I believe Contrast's unique Shift Smart approach will redefine the market. I decided to join Contrast because it has a solid foundation of products and an amazing team. Together, we will help software-driven companies take full advantage of the application economy by getting secure code moving across their complete Software Development Life Cycle [SDLC] with a unified platform."

Prior to joining Contrast, Fitz served as Senior Vice President and General Manager of Splunk's IT Operations & Application Development Market Group, where he helped lead the company through multiple acquisitions, launch innovative products, develop new capabilities and generate unique go-to-market strategies.

"As one of Contrast's early investors, Battery is thrilled to welcome Rick as the company's new CEO," said Dharmesh Thakker, a Battery Ventures general partner and investor in early- and growth-stage companies in the next-generation, enterprise applications market. "Rick's previous experience scaling large software companies, notably at Splunk, will help him lead Contrast as it continues to build cutting-edge solutions to help organizations defend against growing and increasingly complex application-security threats."

Naumann, who served as Contrast's President and CEO since 2016, led the company through multiple funding rounds, including a $150M Series E funding in November 2021. Under Naumann's leadership, Contrast was acknowledged by CB Insights as a unicorn company within the cybersecurity sector and was named a JMP Securities Cyber 66 Company .

"I am excited to pass the baton to Rick because he is known to deliver business outcomes [and to] build lasting relationships. He cares deeply about customers' success and leads with a transparent and collaborative management style," Naumann said. "Rick's background in business-to-business [B2B] enterprise technology provides him a clear understanding of our market and will help pave the way for new business growth."

Fitz and other Contrast executives will be available for meetings at RSAC Conference 2023 at the Contrast booth at #2251 in the South Expo Hall of Moscone Center in San Francisco between Monday, April 24 to Thursday, April 27.

About Contrast Security (Contrast):

A world-leading code security platform company purposely built for developers to get secure code moving swiftly and trusted by security teams to protect business applications. Developers, security and operations teams quickly secure code across the complete Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) with Contrast to protect against today's targeted Application Security (AppSec) attacks.

Founded in 2014 by cybersecurity industry veterans, Contrast was established to replace legacy AppSec solutions that cannot protect modern enterprises. With today's pressures to develop business applications at increasingly rapid paces, the Contrast Secure Code Platform defends and protects against full classes of Common Vulnerabilities and Exposure (CVEs). This allows security teams to avoid spending time focusing on false positives so as to remediate true vulnerabilities faster. Contrast's platform solutions for code assessment, testing, protection, serverless, supply chain, application programming interfaces (APIs) and languages help enterprises achieve true DevSecOps transformation and compliance.

Contrast protects against major cybersecurity attacks for its customer base, which represents some of the largest brand-name companies in the world, including BMW, AXA, Zurich, NTT, Sompo Japan and The American Red Cross, as well as numerous other leading global Fortune 500 enterprises. Contrast partners with global organizations such as AWS, Microsoft, IBM, GuidePoint Security, Trace3, Deloitte and Carahsoft, to seamlessly integrate and achieve the highest level of security for customers.

The growing demand for the world's only platform for code security has landed the company on some of the most prestigious lists, including the Inc. 5000 List of America's Fastest-Growing Companies and the Deloitte Technology Fast 500 List of fastest-growing companies.

Learn more: https://www.contrastsecurity.com/

Follow us: Blog | Twitter | LinkedIn | Facebook

Media Contact:

Laura Asendio

Public Relations Manager

Contrast Security

[email protected]

SOURCE Contrast Security
SILVER SPRING, Md., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration amended the emergency use authorizations (EUAs) of the Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 bivalent mRNA vaccines to simplify the vaccination schedule for most individuals. This action includes authorizing the current bivalent vaccines (original and omicron BA.4/BA.5 strains) to be used for all doses administered to individuals 6 months of age and older, including for an additional dose or doses for certain populations. The monovalent Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines are no longer authorized for use in the United States.

What You Need to Know:

Most individuals, depending on age, previously vaccinated with a monovalent COVID-19 vaccine who have not yet received a dose of a bivalent vaccine may receive a single dose of a bivalent vaccine.





may receive a single dose of a bivalent vaccine. Most individuals who have already received a single dose of the bivalent vaccine are not currently eligible for another dose. The FDA intends to make decisions about future vaccination after receiving recommendations on the fall strain composition at an FDA advisory committee in June.





are not currently eligible for another dose. The FDA intends to make decisions about future vaccination after receiving recommendations on the fall strain composition at an FDA advisory committee in June. Individuals 65 years of age and older who have received a single dose of a bivalent vaccine may receive one additional dose at least four months following their initial bivalent dose.





may receive one additional dose at least four months following their initial bivalent dose. Most individuals with certain kinds of immunocompromise who have received a bivalent COVID-19 vaccine may receive a single additional dose of a bivalent COVID-19 vaccine at least 2 months following a dose of a bivalent COVID-19 vaccine, and additional doses may be administered at the discretion of, and at intervals determined by, their healthcare provider. However, for immunocompromised individuals 6 months through 4 years of age, eligibility for additional doses will depend on the vaccine previously received.





may receive a single additional dose of a bivalent COVID-19 vaccine at least 2 months following a dose of a bivalent COVID-19 vaccine, and additional doses may be administered at the discretion of, and at intervals determined by, their healthcare provider. However, for immunocompromised individuals 6 months through 4 years of age, eligibility for additional doses will depend on the vaccine previously received. Most unvaccinated individuals may receive a single dose of a bivalent vaccine, rather than multiple doses of the original monovalent mRNA vaccines.





may receive a single dose of a bivalent vaccine, rather than multiple doses of the original monovalent mRNA vaccines. Children 6 months through 5 years of age who are unvaccinated may receive a two-dose series of the Moderna bivalent vaccine (6 months through 5 years of age) OR a three-dose series of the Pfizer-BioNTech bivalent vaccine (6 months through 4 years of age). Children who are 5 years of age may receive two doses of the Moderna bivalent vaccine or a single dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech bivalent vaccine.





may receive a two-dose series of the Moderna bivalent vaccine (6 months through 5 years of age) OR a three-dose series of the Pfizer-BioNTech bivalent vaccine (6 months through 4 years of age). Children who are 5 years of age may receive two doses of the Moderna bivalent vaccine or a single dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech bivalent vaccine. Children 6 months through 5 years of age who have received one, two or three doses of a monovalent COVID-19 vaccine may receive a bivalent vaccine, but the number of doses that they receive will depend on the vaccine and their vaccination history.

"At this stage of the pandemic, data support simplifying the use of the authorized mRNA bivalent COVID-19 vaccines and the agency believes that this approach will help encourage future vaccination," said Peter Marks, M.D., Ph.D., director of the FDA's Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research. "Evidence is now available that most of the U.S. population 5 years of age and older has antibodies to SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, either from vaccination or infection that can serve as a foundation for the protection provided by the bivalent vaccines. COVID-19 continues to be a very real risk for many people, and we encourage individuals to consider staying current with vaccination, including with a bivalent COVID-19 vaccine. The available data continue to demonstrate that vaccines prevent the most serious outcomes of COVID-19, which are severe illness, hospitalization, and death."

Available data show that almost all of the U.S. population 5 years of age and older now have antibodies as a result of either vaccination or infection against SARS-CoV-2. The use of bivalent COVID-19 vaccines for all doses administered to individuals 6 months of age and older is supported by the data described below, as well as post-marketing data, including real-world data, with the monovalent and bivalent mRNA COVID-19 vaccines, which have been administered to millions of people, including young children. A second bivalent dose for individuals 65 years of age and older is supported by data showing the waning of immunity in this population over time and its restoration by an additional dose. Additionally, based on evidence from studies conducted previously, immunocompromised individuals may require additional doses.

Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine, Bivalent

The safety and effectiveness of Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine, Bivalent is based on FDA's previous analyses of clinical trials data of monovalent Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine in individuals 6 months of age and older and an investigational bivalent Moderna COVID-19 vaccine (original and omicron BA.1) in individuals 18 years of age and older.

In addition, effectiveness of a single dose is supported by the FDA's analysis of immune response data from clinical studies in which 145 individuals 6 years of age and older who had evidence of prior SARS-CoV-2 infection and 1,376 individuals 6 years of age and older without evidence of prior SARS-CoV-2 infection had received two doses of monovalent Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine. The immune response after one dose of vaccine among participants with evidence of prior infection was comparable to the immune response after two doses among participants without evidence of prior infection.

The data accrued with the investigational bivalent Moderna COVID-19 vaccine (original and omicron BA.1) and with the monovalent Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine are relevant to the Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine, Bivalent because these vaccines are manufactured using the same process.

Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine, Bivalent

The safety and effectiveness of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine, Bivalent is based on the FDA's previous analyses of clinical trials data of monovalent Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine for use in individuals 6 months of age and older, an investigational bivalent Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine (original and omicron BA.1) in individuals greater than 55 years of age, as well as safety data with Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine, Bivalent (original and omicron BA.4/BA.5) in individuals 6 months of age and older and immune response data in individuals 6 months through 4 years of age.

In addition, effectiveness of a single dose is supported by observational data from England on the effectiveness of one dose of monovalent Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine. Among individuals 12 to 17 years of age who had received only one dose of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine, those who had evidence of previous infection with alpha, delta or omicron variants had increased protection against symptomatic omicron infection compared with those with no evidence of previous infection.

The data accrued with the investigational Pfizer-BioNTech bivalent COVID-19 vaccine (original and omicron BA.1) and with the monovalent Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine are relevant to the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine, Bivalent because these vaccines are manufactured using the same process.

With today's authorizations, the fact sheets have been updated and consolidated for the Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine, Bivalent and the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine, Bivalent. Each vaccine now has one fact sheet for healthcare providers and one fact sheet for recipients and caregivers, rather than different fact sheets for the various authorized age groups.

Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee

Today's authorizations follow discussions that occurred during a meeting with the FDA's Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee (VRBPAC) on Jan. 26. At that time, by a unanimous vote, the committee recommended harmonizing the strain composition of COVID-19 vaccines used in the U.S. There was also support for simplifying the vaccine dosing schedule.

In June, the FDA will hold a meeting of its VRBPAC to discuss the strain composition of the COVID-19 vaccines for fall of 2023. Much like the FDA does yearly with the influenza vaccines, the agency will seek input from the committee on which SARS-CoV-2 variants and lineages are most likely to circulate in the upcoming year. Once the specific strains are selected for the COVID-19 vaccines, the FDA expects manufacturers to make updated formulations of the vaccines for availability this fall.

The amendments to the EUAs were issued to ModernaTX Inc. and Pfizer Inc.

Additional Resources:

Media Contact: Abby Capobianco, 240-461-9059

Consumer Inquiries: Email or 888-INFO-FDA

The FDA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, protects the public health by assuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines and other biological products for human use, and medical devices. The agency also is responsible for the safety and security of our nation's food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, products that give off electronic radiation, and for regulating tobacco products.

SOURCE U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Cosmonic Connect allows third party integration with popular technologies and infrastructure

Cosmonic Connect Kubernetes launches at KubeCon EU

Introducing Wadm: Familiar, declarative application management for wasmCloud apps

AMSTERDAM, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- KubeCon EU. Cosmonic , creator of the Cosmonic WebAssembly (Wasm) PaaS and maintainer of CNCF project wasmCloud, announces the Cosmonic Platform has reached Open Beta and now features Cosmonic Connect  a new way to integrate the most popular third party technologies with Wasm. First to launch at KubeCon EU is Cosmonic Connect Kubernetes, with more to come.

Cosmonic continues its commitment to open source innovation with Wadm  declarative application management for wasmCloud applications, built to bring the familiarity of Kubernetes to Wasm. Taylor Thomas, Cosmonic's Director of Engineering, says the focus is to support a variety of industrial needs, rather than locking companies into one use case.

"Applications run in the most complex architectures and remote physical locations so we're designing the Cosmonic PaaS to cater to this diversity," he says. "Building Cosmonic and wasmCloud around the Component Model means complete flexibility to run Wasm applications everywhere, whether that's in serverless or FaaS scenarios, in event-driven architectures, in both microservices and monoliths, running on bare metal, in the cloud or on devices at the edge."

Cosmonic Connect

Creating a fertile environment for popular technologies to integrate with Wasm is key to adoption. Now in Open Beta (open to all with a 'free forever' tier), the Cosmonic PaaS now features Cosmonic Connect. This is a set of third party connectors designed to make Wasm integration simple. The first Cosmonic Connect integration to launch is Cosmonic Connect Kubernetes.

Kubernetes has its limits, particularly at the edge, and is often associated with resource underutilization and excessive costs. WasmCloud's extensible, low-boilerplate and highly portable development methodology resolves these issues so Cosmonic Connect Kubernetes was created to connect large Kubernetes estates to Wasm to drive savings and efficiencies. Adobe was one of the first companies to see real-world value.

According to Roy Illsley, Chief Analyst, Omdia: "Cosmonic Connect is the bridge between Kubernetes and WebAssembly. This will be particularly useful in edge scenarios where Kubernetes is too resource hungry, whereas Wasm is secure, tiny and portable enough to shine at the edge."

Colin Murphy, Senior Engineer at Adobe, says: "A huge advantage of WebAssembly on the back end is that it enables high performance and efficiency with greater security. For companies like ours, with significant and ongoing investment in Kubernetes across the business, the ability to integrate WebAssembly directly into our Kubernetes infrastructure would provide a straightforward path to unlock that potential. We're capitalizing on new technologies today while understanding that the future could look completely different."

Read more in Adobe's CNCF case study Better Together: a Kubernetes and Wasm case study .

Wadm: Familiar, Declarative Application Management for wasmCloud Applications

Wadm lowers the entry barriers to Wasm by providing developers with a familiar way to manage their cloud native applications. This is particularly important for DevOps and GitOps teams, operating in IaaS (infrastructure-as-a-service) environments, who expect declarative state application management.

Built on the Open Application Model , Wadm is declarative application management for wasmCloud applications. It brings all the familiarity of Kubernetes to Wasm via an open and agnostic interface. This is a boon for Kubernetes operators used to being able to declare an application as a single file and be able to launch it anywhere. Wadm brings the tooling they love to wasmCloud with the latest and greatest updates.

This, Thomas believes, will encourage Wasm adoption. "We think of this like upgrading your car with the latest technology. Your car might be years old but it still works great and you really enjoy driving it. But you also really like the idea of a push-button start and a hybrid engine. Wadm allows you to keep what you love about your infrastructure  familiar, easy maintenance, reliable, runs forever  updated with the latest features."

Evolution of WASI Standards and the Component Model

Also at KubeCon EU, Bailey Hayes will be on hand to talk in-depth about the evolution of server-side Wasm standards, such as WASI, wasi-cloud and the component model. Through her role as Bytecode Alliance Technical Standards Committee Director, she'll have a host of technical updates to share as language support and messaging starts to take shape. Bailey will give an in-depth talk on the Evolution of Wasm: Past, Present and Future, at Cloud Native Wasm Day (18th April at 9.50 in Hall 7, Room C). She'll chart the history, evolution and future of Wasm and explore the component model  its current capabilities and use cases. Join her and the team at Wasm Day and stop by booth SU36 to find out more.

To speak to the team before or at the show, please contact: Jenna Dobkin and Lauren Curley: [email protected]

SOURCE Cosmonic Corp
PARSIPPANY, N.J., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Coyne Public Relations is proud to announce that Lisa Wolleon, executive vice president, has been named to the class of 2023 PRNEWS Top Women in the Industry Champions category. PRNEWS' Top Women Awards celebrate the women who have made bold advances in crisis management, brand reputation, media relations, content creation, social media marketing, and more in the last year for their own organizations or for clients.

Lisa Wolleon Headshot

The Industry Champions category was created to honor women of all ranks who've had an exceptional impact on the direction and advancement of the PR and communications industry beyond their impact at their own companies.

As the agency's third employee, Lisa has been with the agency for more than 23 years. She has become an accomplished and respected executive vice president whose leadership is vital to the growth of the agency.

"I've had the pleasure of working alongside Lisa for the last two decades," said Rich Lukis, Coyne PR president. "I've known for a long time that she is one of the industry's top professionals and am grateful to PRNEWS for giving her this very well deserved recognition."

All honorees will be recognized at the Top Women Awards Luncheon on June 7, 2023, at City Winery in New York City. For a full list of this year's honorees, please click here.

ABOUT PRNEWS:

The PRNEWS Group at Access Intelligence, LLC is the leading source of information, education, recognition and data for Fortune 1000 professionals, agencies and government/non-profits. PRNEWS focuses on honing and growing PR and marketing professionals' skills in social media, crisis management, media relations, digital PR, measurement, internal and external communications, CSR and diversity, equity and inclusion through its flagship newsletter, online content, events, awards programs and webinars. For over 75 years, PRNEWS has remained dedicated to supporting the growth of communicators and marketers all while keeping them abreast of the latest news affecting their industries. PRNEWS Awards spotlight the people, organizations and brands challenging assumptions, pushing boundaries and embracing the seemingly impossible to create winning campaigns. PRNEWS Awards community is comprised of communicators and marketers from corporations, agencies and nonprofits worldwide.

ABOUT COYNE PUBLIC RELATIONS:

Founded in 1991, Coyne PR has grown to become one of the top independent public relations firms in the United States. Recognized throughout the industry as "The Best Place to Work," we have wildly creative offices in New York and New Jersey as well as colleagues in 115 cities, 49 countries and six continents through our partnership in The Worldcom Public Relations Group. Our clients include many of the world's most respected companies and those that want to be. Our reputation is built upon three decades of creativity, strategy and service. It is confirmed by more than 1,000 industry awards. For more information, visit www.coynepr.com.

SOURCE Coyne Public Relations, LLC
Innocent man returns to prison after serving 32 years behind bars for a crime he did not commit

ORLANDO, Fla., April 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Crosley Green embraced his family Monday in what may be his last day as a free man and then surrendered again to the Florida Department of Corrections in Orlando. The 65-year-old grandfather has already served 32 years, including 19 on death row, for a murder that he did not commit. After a federal court found that Mr. Green was wrongfully convicted, he has been free for the past two years on conditional release while his case was on appeal. He was ordered to return to prison after an appeals court overturned his win and the U.S. Supreme Court recently declined to hear his case.

Crosley Green

"The last two years have been the best years of my life. I reunited with my family and met my grandkids for the first time. I learned a new job that I really love. I've enjoyed worshipping with my church in Titusville. And I've begun new relationships that have changed my life. I would like to live the years I have left in freedom and peace," Mr. Green said.

"Mr. Green has thrived over the past two years. He has spent his time with his large extended family and become engaged. He has worked a full-time job and become a prominent member of a local church. He has proven his character. He is a man who should be free," said Keith Harrison, a partner at Crowell & Moring who has led the fight for his freedom for the past 15 years.

"Today is a dark day for justice, but Crosley Green's faith points him to the hope of a better day ahead. The only avenues left to pursue are parole or clemency, and we are hopeful that the State will see that no public interest is served by keeping Mr. Green behind bars," Mr. Harrison said. "We will never stop fighting for Mr. Green's freedom. Although our avenues within the court system are exhausted, we believe the State of Florida will do the right thing by Mr. Green."

Despite being ordered back to prison, Mr. Green remains optimistic that justice will prevail in the end.

"I have faith in God that He will find a way. I believe He will show everyone who is willing to look at my case that I deserve to be free. I am not bitter. I am not down and out. I am trying to set an example of faith and hope for my family, for my church, and for my town," Mr. Green said.

Videos and photos are available upon request to members of the media by emailing [email protected].

About the Case

Mr. Green has steadfastly fought for more than three decades to prove his innocence following his wrongful conviction by an all-white jury for the 1989 murder of Charles "Chip" Flynn Jr. in Titusville, Fla. Crowell & Moring has worked on Mr. Green's case pro bono since 2008 on referral from the ABA Death Penalty Representation Project.

Crowell secured Mr. Green's release from death row in 2009. In 2018, Crowell secured a critical victory in the case when a federal court in Orlando, Fla., granted Mr. Green's petition for habeas corpus and ordered that he be released or provided a new trial. The court found that Mr. Green had been wrongfully convicted and his constitutional rights were violated when prosecutors in Brevard County withheld witness interview notes that stated the first two responding law enforcement officers told the prosecutor that they concluded the victim's ex-girlfriendnot Mr. Greencommitted the crime. No physical evidence ties Mr. Green to the crime, and four of the prosecution's witnesses have recanted their trial testimony, alleging the prosecution coerced their false testimony.

U.S. District Court Judge Roy B. Dalton Jr. held that the information that the first officers at the scene evaluated the evidence as implicating another as a suspect "went to the heart of the defense strategy. It is difficult to conceive of information more material to the defense and the development of defense strategy than the fact that the initial responding officers evaluated the totality of the evidence as suggesting that the investigation should be directed toward someone other than [Green]."

In April 2021, Mr. Green was released from prison on conditional release (house arrest) while his case was pending appeal. While free over the past two years, Mr. Green has held full-time employment, became part of a church community, and spent time with familyincluding meeting his grandchildren for the first time. The state of Florida appealed the decision, and the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals reversed Mr. Green's victory. The Supreme Court declined to take up Mr. Green's case on February 27, 2023. The U.S. District Court for the Middle District for Florida ordered Mr. Green to return to custody of the Florida Department of Corrections to complete his sentence.

On April 17, 2023, Mr. Green surrendered himself to the Florida Department of Corrections.

For more information about the case, visit the Crosley Green information page.

Crowell & Moring's team includes 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

Phone: 202.624.2849

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Crowell & Moring LLP
NEW YORK, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Klein Law Firm announces that a class action complaint has been filed on behalf of shareholders of Credit Suisse Group AG (NYSE: CS) alleging that the Company violated federal securities laws.

Class Period: March 10, 2022 to March 15, 2023

Lead Plaintiff Deadline: May 8, 2023

No obligation or cost to you.

Learn more about your recoverable losses in CS:

https://www.kleinstocklaw.com/pslra-1/credit-suisse-lawsuit-submission-form?id=38303&from=4

Credit Suisse Group AG NEWS - CS NEWS

CLASS ACTION CASE DETAILS: The filed complaint alleges that Credit Suisse Group AG made materially false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (i) contrary to representations made in December 2022 by Credit Suisse's Chairman, Axel P. Lehmann, the sharp increase in customer outflows Credit Suisse began experiencing in October 2022 remained ongoing; (ii) accordingly, Credit Suisse had downplayed the impact of the Company's recent series of quarterly losses and risk and compliance failures on liquidity and its ability to retain client funds; (iii) as a result, Credit Suisse had overstated the Company's financial position and/or prospects; and (iv) as a result, the Company's public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times.

WHAT THIS MEANS TO YOU AS A SHAREHOLDER: If you have suffered a loss in Credit Suisse you have until May 8, 2023 to petition the court for lead plaintiff status. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as a lead plaintiff.

NO COST TO YOU: If you purchased Credit Suisse securities during the relevant period, you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out-of-pocket fees.

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR FINANCIAL INTERESTS: For additional information about the CS lawsuit, please contact J. Klein, Esq. by telephone at 212-616-4899 or click this link: https://www.kleinstocklaw.com/pslra-1/credit-suisse-lawsuit-submission-form?id=38303&from=4.

ABOUT KLEIN LAW FIRM

J. Klein, Esq. represents investors and participates in securities litigations involving financial fraud throughout the nation. The Klein Law Firm is a boutique litigation firm with experience in a wide range of areas including securities law, corporate finance and commercial litigation. Since 2011, our experienced attorneys have achieved superior results for our clients with a personalized focus. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.

CONTACT:

J. Klein, Esq.

535 Fifth Avenue

4th Floor

New York City, NY 10017

[email protected]

Telephone: (212) 616-4899

www.kleinstocklaw.com

SOURCE The Klein Law Firm
NEW YORK, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Klein Law Firm announces that a class action complaint has been filed on behalf of shareholders of Catalent, Inc. (NYSE: CTLT) alleging that the Company violated federal securities laws.

Class Period: August 30, 2021 to October 31, 2022

Lead Plaintiff Deadline: April 25, 2023

No obligation or cost to you.

Learn more about your recoverable losses in CTLT:

https://www.kleinstocklaw.com/pslra-1/catalent-inc-class-action-submission-form?id=38296&from=4

Catalent, Inc. NEWS - CTLT NEWS

CLASS ACTION CASE DETAILS: The filed complaint alleges that Catalent, Inc. made materially false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: a) Catalent materially overstated its revenue and earnings by prematurely recognizing revenue in violation of U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles ("GAAP"); b) Catalent had material weaknesses in its internal control over financial reporting related to revenue recognition; c) Catalent falsely represented demand for its products while it knowingly sold more product to its direct customers than could be sold to healthcare providers and end consumers; d) Catalent disregarded regulatory rules at key production facilities in order to rapidly produce excess inventory that was used to pad the Company's financial results through premature revenue recognition in violation of GAAP and/or stuffing its direct customers with this excess inventory; and e) as a result of the foregoing, defendants lacked a reasonable basis for their positive statements about the Company's financial performance, outlook, and regulatory compliance during the class period.

WHAT THIS MEANS TO YOU AS A SHAREHOLDER: If you have suffered a loss in Catalent you have until April 25, 2023 to petition the court for lead plaintiff status. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as a lead plaintiff.

NO COST TO YOU: If you purchased Catalent securities during the relevant period, you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out-of-pocket fees.

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR FINANCIAL INTERESTS: For additional information about the CTLT lawsuit, please contact J. Klein, Esq. by telephone at 212-616-4899 or click this link: https://www.kleinstocklaw.com/pslra-1/catalent-inc-class-action-submission-form?id=38296&from=4.

ABOUT KLEIN LAW FIRM

J. Klein, Esq. represents investors and participates in securities litigations involving financial fraud throughout the nation. The Klein Law Firm is a boutique litigation firm with experience in a wide range of areas including securities law, corporate finance and commercial litigation. Since 2011, our experienced attorneys have achieved superior results for our clients with a personalized focus. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.

CONTACT:

J. Klein, Esq.

535 Fifth Avenue

4th Floor

New York City, NY 10017

[email protected]

Telephone: (212) 616-4899

www.kleinstocklaw.com

SOURCE The Klein Law Firm
Denny's guests can purchase medals in April to support Texas students in Texas Restaurant Foundation's Texas ProStart Program

SAN ANTONIO, Texas, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Denny's guests will have the opportunity to support Texas students by purchasing a medal during San Antonio Fiesta. Patrons at participating Denny's locations can purchase a $10 medal from April 20-30, and all proceeds will go to the Texas Restaurant Foundation's Texas ProStart Program, which prepares students for careers in the restaurant and food service industries.

Dennys Raising Funds for Texas Students with San Antonio Fiesta Medal Campaign

"San Antonio's medal tradition is incredibly special to our community and a wonderful opportunity for Denny's to give back to the next generation of food service leaders," said Denny's franchisee Dawn Lafreeda. "As a long-time member of the restaurant industry, I know how impactful a program like this can be. I am thrilled I get to be a small part of these students' career journeys."

This is the third year Denny's has held the fundraiser, which has raised more than $23,000 for ProStart. Through the program, students gain valuable restaurant and food service skills by achieving hands-on academic and workplace experience. The national ProStart program works with more than 215 high schools and reaches more than 25,000 students each year.

This year's participating San Antonio Denny's locations include:

San Antonio Texas 903 East Commerce St. 78205 Bexar Boerne Texas 435 W Bandera St 78006 Kendall Live Oak Texas 12816 Ih35 N 78233 Bexar San Antonio Texas 6801 Blanco Rd 78216 Bexar San Antonio Texas 2210 Loop 410 Se 78220 Bexar San Antonio Texas 6703 Fm78 78244 Bexar San Antonio Texas 9550 I-10 West 78230 Bexar San Antonio Texas 13635 San Pedro Ave 78232 Bexar San Antonio Texas 6854 Ingram Rd 78238 Bexar San Antonio Texas 1815 North Foster Rd 78244 Bexar San Antonio Texas 6859 Highway 90 West 78227 Bexar Schertz Texas 17455 Ih 35 N 78154 Guadalupe San Antonio Texas 7122 Interstate 35-S Access Rd 78224 Bexar

About Denny's Corp

Denny's is a Spartanburg, S.C. based family dining restaurant celebrating its 70th anniversary year and founding purpose: We love to feed people. That purpose has led us to become a restaurant brand that guests worldwide rely on for delicious value and craveable contemporary meals across breakfast, lunch, dinner and late night. Every day, we welcome guests to dine whenever and however they prefer, whether it's at our brick-and-mortar locations, via Denny's on Demand  the first delivery platform in the family dining segment, or at The Meltdown and The Burger Den, our two virtual restaurants. Our longstanding commitment to supporting our local communities is brought to life with our Mobile Relief Diner that delivers hot meals to our neighbors during times of disaster. Denny's is one of the largest franchised full-service restaurant brands in the world, based on number of restaurants. As of March 1, 2023, Denny's had 1,602 franchised, licensed and company restaurants, which includes 157 restaurants outside the U.S.

To learn more about Denny's, please visit our brand website at www.dennys.com or the brand's social channels via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn or YouTube.

SOURCE Denny's
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. The presentation of the collection of poems "Life is given once" of Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation Leyla Aliyeva, published in Chinese, was held on April 17 in Beijing, Trend reports.

The presentation was held with the joint organizational support of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, the China International Publishing Group (CIPG) and the Azerbaijani Embassy in China.

Speaking at the event, Deputy Editor-in-Chief of the CIPG Chen Shi appreciated the publication of the collection as an excellent example of successful cooperation between China and Azerbaijan in humanitarian sphere.

As Ambassador of Azerbaijan to China Akram Zeynalli noted, such cultural and humanitarian initiatives bring together the peoples of Azerbaijan and China and strengthen cooperation between the two countries.

Zeynalli expressed confidence that this publication will help readers to become more familiar with Azerbaijani culture and will contribute to the implementation of new interesting projects in the future.

President of the China Minority Literary Association, well-known poet Jidi Majia noted in his speech that Leyla Aliyeva's poetry is lyrical and at the same time filled with deep philosophical meaning.

"Reading her poems, we become witnesses of how the traditions of lyrics, laid down by poets of different eras, are passing into our modernity," he said.

Then, graduates of the Beijing Foreign Studies University, who studied in the specialty of the Azerbaijani language, read Leyla Aliyeva's poems in Chinese.

The Heydar Aliyev Foundation translated the books of Azerbaijani poets and writers into Chinese for the first time. At a meeting between the Executive Director of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation Anar Alakbarov and Chen Shi, issues related to the translation of works of Azerbaijani poets and writers into Chinese in the future were discussed.
ANAHEIM, Calif., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Sales will soon begin for The Villas at Disneyland Hotel, a new Disney Vacation Club property where members will experience decades of memory-making stays in the place where it all started, the Disneyland Resort. Sales open to current Disney Vacation Club members on May 2 and to all others on May 30. The Villas at Disneyland Hotel will join The Villas at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa in welcoming members home when it opens on Sept. 28.

The Villas at Disneyland Hotel will be located in the heart of the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California. The 12-story tower will have a wide range of themed accommodations designed to sleep anywhere from two to 12 guests, perfectly blending the magic of Walt Disney Animation Studio classics with many of the essential comforts of home. (Artist Concept/Walt Disney Imagineering)

The new tower will feature over 340 rooms, welcoming guests to a variety of themed accommodations, such as duo studios, deluxe studios, one- and two-bedroom villas, and multi-level grand villas. Each room will include just-like-home amenities and modern decor inspired by Walt Disney Animation Studios classics like "The Jungle Book," "Sleeping Beauty," "The Princess and the Frog," "Fantasia" and more.

The newly imagined duo studio will bring the story of "The Jungle Book" to life. Perfect for two guests, this cozy retreat features a split bathroom with themed tile accents, and a queen-size bed that conveniently tucks into the wall to reveal a sofa when not in use. The deluxe studios will celebrate the stories of "Sleeping Beauty" or "The Princess and the Frog." Deluxe studios will include a kitchenette, split bathroom, and two queen-size beds to sleep up to four guests.

One- and two-bedroom villas offer roomier accommodations for larger families, sleeping up to five and nine guests, respectively. The villas include a full-size kitchen and living areas with comfortable sofa seating that can be easily pulled down to reveal a queen-size bed, complete with a story-themed mural above, inspired by "The Princess and the Frog" or "Fantasia." The comfort continues into the main bedroom, which includes a spacious en-suite bathroom featuring double vanities, a soaking tub with a themed mosaic-style tile mural, and a spa-like shower.

The three-bedroom grand villas feature multi-level accommodations, sleeping up to 12 guests. On the first floor, families can enjoy a full-size kitchen, large dining area, and a double-sided fireplace connecting the living area to a private outdoor balcony. The first floor is also home to the primary suite, inspired by "Bambi." Guests will discover more magic as they venture up a spiral staircase to discover a full-size washer and dryer and two themed bedrooms. One bedroom is inspired by "Frozen" and one by "Moana," each with two queen-size beds and en-suite bathrooms.

Guests staying at the newest Disney Vacation Club property will be able to enjoy a brand new themed pool, splash pad and pool bar. These new amenities will join popular offerings at the award-winning Disneyland Hotel* including restaurants, lounges, shops, and swimming pools. The hotel's nostalgic charm, rich Disney heritage and close proximity to Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park makes it a favorite among guests and Disney Vacation Club members.

"Disney Vacation Club is thrilled to offer an additional vacation ownership option on the West Coast," said Bill Diercksen, senior vice president and general manager of Disney Vacation Club. "The addition of our 16th Disney Vacation Club resort reflects our continuing commitment to making our members' dreams come true by providing exciting new opportunities to make magical vacation memories that last a lifetime. We look forward to welcoming members home to this stunning new tower at the Disneyland Hotel."

Today, there are a total of 15 Disney Vacation Club properties across four states, including Disney's Riviera Resort, the newest Disney Vacation Club property at Walt Disney World Resort, the recently expanded Villas at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and Aulani, Disney Vacation Club Villas in Ko Olina, Hawaii.

For more information on The Villas at Disneyland Hotel visit TheVillasAtDisneylandHotel.com.To learn more about Disney Vacation Club visit DisneyVacationClub.com. Members may also call their Disney Vacation Club Guide.

This advertising material is being used for the purpose of soliciting sales of timeshare interests.

*The amenities and facilities adjacent to The Villas at Disneyland Hotel are not part of the ownership interests.

About Disney Vacation Club

Disney Vacation Club, a leader in vacation ownership, debuted in 1991 with a flexible, vacation points-based system rather than the traditional fixed-week timeshare model. Today, Disney Vacation Club has more than 250,000 member families, from all 50 states and approximately 100 countries, who have discovered the joys of membership.

Disney Vacation Club Members are able to choose from among a variety of exciting vacation destinations, including a stay at any Disney Vacation Club Resort or one of thousands of vacation exchange options in destinations around the world. Plus, when purchasing directly from Disney with 150 vacation points or more, Members can also enjoy Membership Extras, including Disney-branded exchange options like Disney Resort hotels, Disney Cruise Line and guided vacations with Adventures by Disney or National Geographic Expeditions, as well as hotel exchanges featuring a portfolio of extraordinary hotels in sought-after destinations. Vacations at a Disney Vacation Club Resort can last anywhere from one night to several weeks.

With Disney Vacation Club properties located near the Disney theme parks in Florida and California, members have easy access to new and innovative attractions on both coasts for years to come. For more information and special offers, visit DisneyVacationClub.com .

About the Disneyland Resort

The Disneyland Resort features two spectacular theme parks  Disneyland (the original Disney theme park) and Disney California Adventure Park  plus three hotels and the Downtown Disney District, comprising unique dining, entertainment and shopping experiences. The Resort's hotels are the luxurious, 948-room Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, which also features 50 two-bedroom equivalent Disney Vacation Club units; the magical, 973-room Disneyland Hotel  both AAA Four Diamond properties  and the 481-room Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel with its "day-at-the-beach" theme. For information on attractions and vacations at the Disneyland Resort, visit Disneyland.com , call (866) 43-DISNEY or contact local travel agent. Located in Anaheim, Calif., the Disneyland Resort opened July 17, 1955. Open daily, year-round.

SOURCE Disney Vacation Club
New Location Now Open in Kansas City

KANSAS CITY, Mo., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Diversified Restaurant Group (DRG), a multi-brand quick service restaurant franchisee, reaches a significant milestone with the opening of its 300th Taco Bell location. The new restaurant located at 15881 Metcalf Ave, Overland Park, KS, will celebrate its grand opening on April 20 at 11:30 am. DRG has experienced tremendous growth since its inception in 2014. What started with 30 restaurants, has grown tenfold in nine years, and is now recognized as one of the largest quick service restaurant franchisees in the country.

To commemorate the milestone, the first 100 customers to visit the new location on April 20 will receive a free Taco Bell branded cup. Additionally, the location will offer an Uber Eats and Door Dash special of buy 3 items, get 1 free from April 21  April 28.

"We are extremely proud to reach this growth milestone. For this to happen in only a matter of nine years is a testament to the hard-work of our team," said SG Ellison , CEO of Diversified Restaurant Group. "We could not have done this without the tremendous support of Taco Bell corporate. We are extremely thankful for their support and look forward to continuing to bring the best possible experience to our customers."

The new restaurant features a dual lane drive-thru with full delivery and mobile capabilities. It also offers kiosk technology for easy dine-in ordering, as well as easy access to pick up mobile orders. The restaurant also provides Wi-Fi to customers, and numerous electrical outlets at the community table.

To place an order with the new Kansas City Taco Bell restaurant, download the Taco Bell app from the App Store or Google Play.

For more information about Diversified Restaurant Group, visit www.drgfood.com.

Images: HERE

About Diversified Restaurant Group

Diversified Restaurant Group is a restaurant business comprised of owners and operators working to innovate and grow with quick service and fast casual brands across the country. What started as a limited partnership in a 30-unit Taco Bell franchise in 2014, has since grown into a 300+ unit, multi-brand QSR operation with restaurants in Nevada, California, Kansas, Missouri and Alaska.

Media contact: Brianne Barbakoff, [email protected]

SOURCE Diversified Restaurant Group
The peer-to-peer fundraiser Walk 3to9 has raised funds for Dr. Susan Love Foundation for Breast Cancer Research since its inception in 2018. This year, in celebration of the 15th Anniversary of Walk with Love, the two powerhouse walks will come together to raise money for breast cancer research.

LOS ANGELES, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Dr. Susan Love Foundation for Breast Cancer Research will host its 15th Annual Walk with Love in Granada Beach in Long Beach, California on Sunday, June 11th, 2023. The event will still feature a virtual component for supporters interested in moving in support of breast cancer research, but for those joining in-person, the 15th annual walk is slated to be the biggest yet.

Walk With Love 2023 Logo

In July 2018, the peer-to-peer fundraiser known as Walk 3to9 was launched by Jaki Kackert in an effort to unify walkers and survivors in the fight against breast cancer. Walk 3to9 gave participants another opportunity to support Dr. Susan Love Foundation's commitment to research, with the option to do a three-, six-, or nine-mile charity walk or run. CEO Christopher Clinton Conway says adding the virtual walk has grown the event and its impact exponentially. "The introduction of the virtual walk boosted the numbers way beyond the Foundation's core of dedicated supporters who always came out in person. Now we are equally grateful to all walkers who join us, where ever they're walking." To date, the walkers' collective drive and dedication to the eradication of breast cancer has amounted to over $300,000  with 100% of every single dollar being donated directly to the Foundation for research.

In celebration of the fifteen years that the Foundation has hosted the walk, the two walks have decided to merge themselves together going forward to bring together the largest group possible  all dedicated to moving the research needle. The 2023 Walk With Love course will now feature the option for people to move past the 5K option offered in preceding years, to include the 10K that was signature to Walk 3to9  giving walkers, joggers, and runners the option to move even more, an extra "push" for research that matters.

"Bringing these groups together was a no brainer", says Kackert. "By combining the walks, we are able to really focus in our efforts to make a difference in breast cancer research, and show our commitment to the community of people being affected by this disease". The Foundation is thankful for the long-time support of Jaki Kackert, Walk 3to9, and all of the Walk 3to9-ers that have faithfully participated in fundraising and moving for the Foundation, and looks forward to welcoming them to the Walk With Love community.

The 2023 Walk With Love will take place on June 11, 2023 in Long Beach, California. The Walk begins at 8:30am and will feature sponsored booths, giveaways, and registered race recordings for those competing. Registration is open through June 11th, and fundraising teams are being formed already. Proceeds will support the Foundation's mission to end breast cancer. The Foundation invites all to attend and celebrate LOVE and get moving for those dedicated to ending breast cancer.

For More Information please visit: walkwithlove.org

About Dr. Susan Love Foundation for Breast Cancer Research

Dr. Susan Love Foundation for Breast Cancer Research challenges the status quo to end breast cancer and improve the lives of people impacted by it now through education and advocacy. The Foundation drives collaborative, cutting-edge research with nontraditional partners, brings to light the collateral damage of treatment and seeks ways to diminish it, and interprets science to empower patients. Fast, flexible, and project-based, the Foundation actively engages the public in scientific research to ensure that it produces accurate and meaningful results.

For more information please visit: DrSusanLoveResearch.org

For Media Inquiries:

Allie Cormier

Chief Marketing Officer

[email protected]

direct: 323.353.0750

Dr. Susan Love Foundation for Breast Cancer Research

SOURCE Dr. Susan Love Research Foundation
SHANGHAI, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On March 30, 2023, Energy 1 Corp. (OTC: EGOC) (the "Company"), innovative technology-based enterprise as future core business, has officially effected the reverse stock split of its shares of common stock through regulatory approval from FINRA. Following the reverse stock split, the total number of shares of common stock issued and outstanding after the reverse stock split is now 52,410,857, which will optimize the Company's shareholder base and prepare for a potential transfer to another exchange in the future. After the reverse stock split, the number of common stock issued and outstanding has decreased, the stock price has increased proportionally, the transaction costs for investors has reduced, which help promote active trading and increase stock liquidity. The Company intends to inject high-quality business entities into the Company after the reverse stock split, which will help promote the Company's business and increase shareholders' returns, and is a significant milestone for the Company's potential transfer to another stock exchange.

Following the completion of the reverse stock split, the Company intends to inject high-quality business entities into the Company, implement a unified financial data preparation, and build up foundations for the potential transfer to another stock exchange. The Company has been committed to modern agriculture and biotechnology development, upgrading the industry to a systematic and refined level, and combining upstream and downstream resources to achieve both technological enhancement and enterprise profitability.

EGOC intends to inject high-quality business entities into the Company, including cross-border intelligent e-commerce, biotechnology, ecological black pigs etc. Additionally, the Company has already laid out sustainable energy projects worldwide to develop the wind power and photovoltaic systems in Xinjiang and continuously adding new power to the Company's future profitability.

As an innovative technology company, the Company is committed to the modern agriculture, health, and new energy industries, providing ecofriendly and healthy products to all existing and potential customers with the advanced technology, continuing to provide differentiated services to all customers, and moving towards a potential transfer to another stock exchange.

Forward-Looking Statements

The press release contains forward-looking statements, including but not limited to the Company's proposed offering. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties based on the Company's current expectations and forecasts of future events that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, operating results, business strategy, and financial requirements, including the expected success of the offering. Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by expressions such as "approximate," "estimate," "believe," "hope," "expect," "estimate," "project," "intend," "plan," "should," "could," "may," or similar expressions. The Company does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances or changes in its expectations, except as required by law. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure investors that these expectations will prove to be correct. Investors are advised to review other factors that may affect its future results in its registration statement and other documents submitted to the US Securities and Exchange Commission.

Media contract

Name: Gu Juan

Position: Executive Assistant

e-mail: [email protected]

Telephone+86 18769001150

SOURCE Energy 1 Corp.
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. and CLERMONT, Fla., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Encompass Health (NYSE: EHC) announces the opening of Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Clermont, a 50-bed inpatient rehabilitation hospital located at 2901 State Road 50. The hospital serves patients recovering from debilitating illnesses and injuries including strokes and other neurological disorders, brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, amputations and complex orthopedic conditions.

Encompass Health of Clermont

In addition to 24-hour nursing care, Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Clermont offers physical, occupational and speech therapies to restore functional ability and quality of life. Care is provided by highly specialized nurses, therapists and physicians. The hospital features all private patient rooms, a large therapy gym with advanced rehabilitation technologies and an activities of daily living suite, a therapy courtyard, a cafeteria and a dayroom.

"We are excited to open this new hospital in Clermont to help individuals recovering from major illnesses and injuries regain the strength and function needed to reach their highest levels of independence," said Glenda Carius, CEO of Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Clermont. "Our team of experts will provide specialized care, close to home at this state-of-the-art hospital. We are greatly appreciative of the support we've received from the community and for the opportunity to serve as the region's trusted choice for rehabilitation."

Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Clermont is Encompass Health's 157th inpatient rehabilitation hospital nationwide and its 20th inpatient rehabilitation hospital in Florida.

About Encompass Health

Encompass Health (NYSE: EHC) is the largest owner and operator of rehabilitation hospitals in the United States. With a national footprint that includes 157 hospitals in 37 states and Puerto Rico, the Company provides high-quality, compassionate rehabilitative care for patients recovering from a major injury or illness, using advanced technology and innovative treatments to maximize recovery. Encompass Health is ranked as one of Fortune's 100 Best Companies to Work For and Modern Healthcare's Best Places to Work in Healthcare. For more information, visit encompasshealth.com, or follow us on our newsroom, Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

Encompass Health Media Contact:

Danielle Hall | 205-970-5912

[email protected]

SOURCE Encompass Health Corp.
KISSIMMEE, Fla., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Experience Kissimmee, the official tourism authority for Osceola County, FL, and a trailblazer in the tourism industry, is making strides in sustainability efforts announcing two new programs starting May 1, 2023.

The first is the expansion of the "It Pays to Meet in Kissimmee" program, where meeting organizations can earn up to $10,000 cashback based on the number of actualized paid room nights. The expanded program will now include Trees4Travel, an initiative to plant trees to help with creating future forests, restoring eco-systems, and supporting biodiversity and local communities. Plus, an investment is made into a United Nations renewable energy carbon credit, which will help reduce a portion of the meeting organizations' CO2 emissions. For instance, if a meeting organization actualizes 1,500 paid room nights in Kissimmee, Experience Kissimmee will plant 1,500 trees through the Trees4Travel hybrid program. The meeting organization will receive a certificate of Planet & People Positive Action, which includes a UN CER certificate, post-meeting.

"We are proud to be amongst the first DMOs in the nation to offer a carbon reduction program for meetings and conventions," said Michelle Moore, Senior Director of Meetings Sales & Services at Experience Kissimmee. "Experience Kissimmee acknowledges that sustainability is of growing importance to meeting planners and delegates, and this is a creative and innovate way to address that."

The second program will reduce carbon emissions from all air and ground travel conducted by Experience Kissimmee staff by incorporating an emissions calculator into the staff travel request form. The calculator will automatically determine the number of trees that the destination marketing organization (DMO) will plant through the Trees4Travel program to rebalance the carbon footprint generated by each business trip.

"As we celebrate Earth Day, we are excited to announce the expansion of our sustainability efforts at Experience Kissimmee," said Jason Holic, Senior Vice President of Operations & Community Engagement at Experience Kissimmee. "This includes partially reducing the carbon footprint of meetings and group business for incentive contracts and all future work-related staff travel, starting May 1st."

Experience Kissimmee has been partnering with Trees4Travel on another initiative to encourage sustainability, inviting its clients to join the program by planting trees instead of giving away promotional items during trade shows and conventions.

"At Experience Kissimmee, we recognize the need to contribute in a more ethical, considerate, and regenerative way for the planet and its people," said DT Minich, President/CEO of Experience Kissimmee. "We are proud of our expanding partnership with Trees4Travel and establishing these progressive initiatives for sustainability."

About Trees4Travel

Trees4Travel is an award-winning environmental 'Tech For Good' company working with travel brands all over the world in the business and leisure sectors providing FREE carbon management technology to calculate and help reduce emissions impact, educating travelers and providing the necessary transitionary tools to get us from where we are today to our net zero targets in the future - making travel and events more ethical, sustainable, planet and people positive.

About Experience Kissimmee:

Experience Kissimmee is the official tourism authority for Osceola County, Florida. Located at the heart of Central Florida, Kissimmee is 25 minutes from Orlando International Airport (MCO), minutes from world-famous theme parks and attractions, and nestled in carefully preserved outdoor spaces so visitors can reconnect with nature. Also known as the Vacation Home Capital of the World, Kissimmee has sprawling resorts with thousands of options ranging from two-bedroom condos to 15-bedroom mansions.

Media Contact:

Experience Kissimmee Communications Department [email protected]



Meeting and Sales Contact:

For information about the Meetings and incentive programs [email protected]

SOURCE Experience Kissimmee
GULFPORT, Miss., April 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Siri & Glimstad LLP announces a ruling from the bench following an evidentiary hearing, wherein a federal court has ruled that the First Amendment requires that the State of Mississippi afford its residents a religious exemption for their children to attend school without one or more state mandated vaccines by July 15, 2023.

A written entry on the Court's docket was issued shortly after the hearing providing, in relevant part:

Minute Entry for proceedings before District Judge Halil S. Ozerden: Hearing on Plaintiffs' Motion for Preliminary Injunction held on 4/17/2023. Court heard testimony and additional argument. For the reasons stated on the record, and to be more fully detailed in a written order to follow, the Court will grant Plaintiffs' Motion. From and after July 15, 2023, Defendants Daniel P. Edney, in his official capacity as the State Health Officer  their officers, agents, servants, and employees, and anyone acting in active concert or participation with them will be enjoined from enforcing Mississippi Code  41-23-37 [Mississippi's compulsory school vaccination law] unless they provide an option for individuals to request a religious exemption from the vaccine requirement.

Mississippi is one of only six states that does not have a religious exemption for students to attend school. Numerous parents have sincerely held religious beliefs that do not permit vaccinating their children, including because of the involvement and development of vaccines using the products of abortions and aborted fetal cell lines. Those parents were put in an impossible position by being forced to violate their sincere religious beliefs in order to send their children to school.

The refusal to recognize religious exemptions has needlessly harmed these children by forcing their parents to homeschool or move out of the State, often directly across the border to attend school in a neighboring state while still otherwise effectively living their lives in Mississippi.

The State of Mississippi affords a secular exemption to those with medical reasons reflecting that it can accommodate students that are unvaccinated. It has simply chosen to not accord an exemption when it is someone's immortal soul that a parent believes would be at risk. Plaintiffs are incredibly heartened that a federal court agreed that the State cannot afford a secular exemption without affording a religious exemption and that doing so violated the First Amendment.

The six plaintiffs in the case include parents from across the State including a pastor who had to exclude his own daughter from his own private Christian school because he could not accord his own religious convictions to let her attend.

Judge Ozerden issued a thoughtful tentative ruling from the bench, recognizing the importance and the magnitude of the infringement of religious freedom in the state, and will issue a written order to follow.

We look forward to cooperating with the Department of Health in creating a process for religious exemptions.

Litigation funding for this lawsuit has been provided by Informed Consent Action Network.

Counsel for the plaintiffs are Aaron Siri, Elizabeth A. Brehm, Walker Moller, and Catherine Cline of Siri & Glimstad LLP and Chris Wiest, of Chris Wiest, Attorney at Law, PLLC.

SOURCE Siri & Glimstad LLP
LONG ISLAND CITY, N.Y., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- In observance of National Minority Health Month this April, Fidelis Care is raising awareness about the health disparities facing minority populations. This year's theme, "Better Health Through Better Understanding," focuses on how meeting cultural and linguistic needs can help improve health outcomes for individuals of all ages.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Minority Health (OMH), established National Minority Health Month to promote educational efforts on the health problems currently facing racial and ethnic populations, and to help eliminate health disparities.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), minority groups are more likely to experience chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. By addressing health literacy and linguistic needs, community-based organizations, local leaders, providers, and health plans can work together to reduce the risk of these conditions and improve overall health outcomes.

Fidelis Care collaborates with providers across the state who speak many different languages. Receiving a diagnosis or lab results and being able to talk with a doctor in your own language and in a simple, understandable way makes a huge difference in supporting an individual's health and wellness.

"National Minority Health Month provides an opportunity to acknowledge and address health disparities and inequities among minority populations," added Camille Pearte, MD, Fidelis Care Senior Medical Director. "We want our members to be engaged in their health and wellness, ask questions, and follow through with the care and services they need. This is best accomplished when care is being delivered in a way that is sensitive to every individual's cultural identity or heritage."

In addition to working with diverse providers, Fidelis Care staff speak several languages and are active in their communities. Members of Fidelis Care's Marketing team, which has a grassroots presence statewide, speak 29 different languages  from Spanish to Urdu. Through our strong partnerships with providers and community organizations, Fidelis Care helps to address health equity through community events and education.

For example, Fidelis Care recently partnered with CINQCARE, a provider-led, community-based comprehensive care delivery partner based in Buffalo, to discuss the importance of culturally sensitive healthcare.

"At CINQCARE, we are passionate about understanding the communities we serve and that's why we are dedicated to creating a world where healthcare isn't a burden," said Anthony Welters, Founder and CEO. "We are committed to recruiting, empowering, and equipping physicians, nurses, practitioners, and caregivers with what they need to deliver better health and care where people live, especially those in Black and Brown communities."

Beyond National Minority Health Month, Fidelis Care will continue to focus on health equity and ensuring our members and the communities we serve have equitable access to the highest quality care. This commitment also requires that we continue to address the social determinants of health and health disparities statewide.

About Fidelis Care

Fidelis Care is a mission-driven health plan offering quality, affordable coverage for children and adults of all ages and at all stages of life. With more than 2.5 million members statewide, Fidelis Care believes that all New Yorkers should have access to affordable, quality health insurance. Follow us on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/fidelis-care , on Twitter at @fideliscare, Instagram at @fideliscare, and on Facebook at facebook.com/fideliscare. For more information, call Fidelis Care at 1-888-FIDELIS (1-888-343-3547) or visit fideliscare.org.

Contact: [email protected]

SOURCE Fidelis Care
NEW YORK, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Klein Law Firm announces that a class action complaint has been filed on behalf of shareholders of Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. (NYSE: FIS) alleging that the Company violated federal securities laws.

This lawsuit is on behalf of all persons or entities who purchased Fidelity National common stock between February 9, 2021 and February 10, 2023, inclusive.

Lead Plaintiff Deadline: May 5, 2023

No obligation or cost to you.

Learn more about your recoverable losses in FIS:

https://www.kleinstocklaw.com/pslra-1/fidelity-national-information-services-inc-loss-submission-form?id=38302&from=4

Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. NEWS - FIS NEWS

CLASS ACTION CASE DETAILS: The filed complaint alleges that Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. made materially false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) the integration of the Company's acquisition, Worldpay, Inc. ("Worldpay"), was not ahead of schedule; (2) the integration of Worldpay was not successfully completed during the class period; (3) the increases in revenue synergies were not driven by the Worldpay integration; and (4) as a result, defendants' positive statements about the Company's financial guidance, business, operations, and prospects were materially false and misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times.

WHAT THIS MEANS TO YOU AS A SHAREHOLDER: If you have suffered a loss in Fidelity National you have until May 5, 2023 to petition the court for lead plaintiff status. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as a lead plaintiff.

NO COST TO YOU: If you purchased Fidelity National securities during the relevant period, you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out-of-pocket fees.

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR FINANCIAL INTERESTS: For additional information about the FIS lawsuit, please contact J. Klein, Esq. by telephone at 212-616-4899 or click this link: https://www.kleinstocklaw.com/pslra-1/fidelity-national-information-services-inc-loss-submission-form?id=38302&from=4.

ABOUT KLEIN LAW FIRM

J. Klein, Esq. represents investors and participates in securities litigations involving financial fraud throughout the nation. The Klein Law Firm is a boutique litigation firm with experience in a wide range of areas including securities law, corporate finance and commercial litigation. Since 2011, our experienced attorneys have achieved superior results for our clients with a personalized focus. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.

CONTACT:

J. Klein, Esq.

535 Fifth Avenue

4th Floor

New York City, NY 10017

[email protected]

Telephone: (212) 616-4899

www.kleinstocklaw.com

SOURCE The Klein Law Firm
Viking Voted The Best Cruise Line In The Publication's Inaugural Awards Recognizing The Best Culinary Experiences Around The World

LOS ANGELES, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Viking (www.viking.com) has been voted Best Cruise Line by Food & Wine readers in the publication's inaugural Global Tastemakers Awards, which were announced today. According to Food & Wine, Viking topped the Cruise Line category for the inventive culinary programs across its river, ocean and expedition voyages.

Viking has been voted #1 Cruise Line by Food & Wine readers in the publications inaugural Global Tastemakers Awards. On Vikings ocean and expedition ships, guests have multiple dining options including Mamsens Norwegian Deli pictured here on Vikings ocean fleet. For more information, visit www.viking.com. According to Food & Wine readers, Viking topped the Cruise Line category for the inventive culinary programs across its river, ocean and expedition voyages in the publications first-ever Global Tastemakers Awards. On Vikings European river vessels, guests can dine on the revolutionary indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace pictured here. For more information, visit www.viking.com.

For 45 years, Food & Wine has celebrated the global epicurean experience; for its first-ever Global Tastemakers Awards, the publication is recognizing the best culinary experiences around the world, chosen by its readers. In addition to cruise lines, other categories include top restaurants, airlines, hotels, bars and more. Viking will be featured in the July issue of Food & Wine magazine, which will be on newsstands in June; the full results of the awards can be found at www.foodandwine.com/global-tastemakers.

"Discovering a destination through its culinary traditions is central to the Viking experience, and we are pleased that our approach to dining has resonated with so many curious travelers," said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. "I would like to thank our guests and readers of Food & Wine for recognizing us, as well as our culinary team members who make awards like this possible."

Dining on a Viking ship, guests find the ideal setting for impeccable service and casual elegance. In addition to always-available classics, menus on board feature dishes inspired by the destinationwith regional beer and wine included at lunch and dinner. On Viking's ocean and expedition ships, guests have multiple dining options, from Mamsen's Norwegian Deli and the open kitchens of the World Cafe to Manfredi's Italian trattoria and the multicourse tasting menus of the Chef's Table. On Viking's European river vessels, guests may choose between the main dining room, The Restaurant, and the revolutionary indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace. And on the new Viking Mississippi, the innovative River Cafe, features American classics and locally inspired specialties. Across its fleet, Viking offers the most al fresco dining on any waterway, so guests always have the option to enjoy a meal or a glass of wine while completely surrounded by the scenery.

Today's announcement from Food & Wine is the most recent milestone as Viking continues to celebrate its 25th anniversary. In March 2023, Viking dominated Cruise Critic's Cruisers' Choice Awards, receiving top honors in six categories including "Best Overall Line," "Best River Line," and "Best Dining" for its ocean and expedition voyages. In January 2023, the company had its most successful single month of bookings following recent years of strong growth. Since 2020, Viking has welcomed 16 new ships to its fleetincluding eight new Viking Longships on the rivers of Europe; new, purpose-built vessels on the Mekong, Nile and Mississippi rivers; three new, identical ocean ships; and two Polar Class expedition vessels. Viking has also been named both the #1 Ocean Line and #1 River Line by both Travel + Leisure and Conde Nast Traveler, making it the first line ever to simultaneously earn #1 in its categories from both publications.

Media Assets

For more information, images and b-roll for Viking, contact [email protected].

About Viking

Viking was founded in 1997 and provides destination-focused journeys on rivers, oceans and lakes around the world. Designed for experienced travelers with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine, Chairman Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers experiences for The Thinking Person. Viking has more than 250 awards to its name, including being the first cruise line to ever be named both the #1 Ocean Line and the #1 River Line in a single year in Travel + Leisure's 2022 "World's Best" Awards. Viking has also been rated the #1 River Line and #1 Ocean Line by Conde Nast Traveler in the publication's 2022 and 2021 Readers' Choice Awards. For additional information, contact Viking at 1-800-2-VIKING (1-800-284-5464) or visit www.viking.com. For Viking's award-winning enrichment channel, visit www.viking.tv.

SOURCE Viking
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. Azerbaijani Defense Minister, Colonel General Zakir Hasanov met with his Kazakh counterpart Ruslan Zhaksylykov during his official visit to Kazakhstan, Trend reports via the Defense Ministry of Azerbaijan.

According to the ministry, first, an official welcoming ceremony was organized in Astana.

The ministers passed along the guard of honor, the national anthems of Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan were performed and Colonel General Hasanov signed the "Book of Honor" in accordance with the protocol.

Then a meeting was held at the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

Prospects for the development of cooperation between the countries in the military, military-technical, and military-educational spheres, as well as other issues of mutual interest were discussed at the meeting.
Shah Brings Deep Expertise in Scaling Software for Social Impact

SAN FRANCISCO, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Change , a technology platform powering donations, announces today that Sachin Shah joined its advisory board. A leader in blending technology with social impact, Shah was the Director of AmazonSmile until March 2022 and also served on the Board of the AmazonSmile Foundation. He brings a unique and specialized set of operational management skills, technical expertise, and understanding of the social impact space during a critical growth period for Change.

Shah has over 20 years of product management and engineering experience, having spent 10 years building, scaling, and leading AmazonSmile. AmazonSmile was a trailblazing program that allowed shoppers to support their favorite charitable organizations by directing Amazon to donate a portion of their eligible purchases to a nonprofit of their choice. AmazonSmile donated $449 million to hundreds of thousands of charitable organizations globally before closing its doors in February of 2023.

"I'm thrilled to work alongside the Change team as we continue to drive broad social impact at scale. Their technology has the potential to power the next generation of customer-driven, innovative social good programs, and I'm excited to be a part of that journey. I look forward to helping them build on their solid foundation as they continue to invent and grow."

 Sachin Shah

Today's announcement comes on the heels of a period of exciting growth for Change. This past giving season (from November to January), Change saw a 30x increase in donation volume processed compared to the previous year. This impressive growth is a testament to the efficacy of Change's platform and its technical ability to facilitate seamless donation activations. The company is committed to innovate as necessary to maintain this growth.

Shah has a proven track record of driving scalable and transformative business change and is further evidence of the company's commitment to providing a tech-first API solution for companies to build and execute on giveback strategies. Change integrates directly into any existing system where consumers can spend a dollar, providing a comprehensive approach for businesses to engage in charitable giving.

Shah joins other prominent leaders in the technology and social impact spaces on Change's advisory board: Daphne Carmeli, former Target executive and founder of Deliv and Metreo; Joel Lunenfeld, former VP of Global Brand Strategy at Twitter and Co-Founder of Guardian Project, a nonprofit bringing free martial arts to Oakland youth; and Steven Izen, CEO & Founder of Lokai and Board Member of Make-A-Wish America.

About Change

Change is the leading donation processing platform that partners with companies like Brex, Blackbaud, and Porsche to engage a new generation of socially conscious consumers. With Change's donations API, organizations have the power to seamlessly donate to over 200,000 accredited charities, maintain regulatory compliance, simplify tax reporting, and track donation data in real-time. Change is backed by Freestyle and NEA. Visit www.getchange.io to add giving into your platform and engage the next generation.

SOURCE Change
PRAIRIE VILLAGE, Kan., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Fortis Capital Advisors, an emerging RIA based in the Kansas City area, announced today that it has expanded its national footprint with the recent addition of Financial Advisor Matt Joyner in Portland, Oregon.

"Matt Joyner is a great addition to Fortis Capital. We had a goal of expanding to the Pacific Northwest Region and Matt was the advisor we wanted to anchor the new market," said Fortis Capital CEO, Rob Hagg. "Matt has a deeply rooted philosophy of comprehensive investment management, strong tax planning and building strong client-advisor relationships, which are all perfectly aligned with the values of Fortis Capital Advisors," said Hagg.

At the onset of the creation of Fortis Capital, we had the goal of building a strong national footprint. We knew this year we wanted to expand into this area. Since Matt joined our firm we have seen more and more interest in firms looking to continue their growth with Fortis Capital.," said Hagg.

Joyner said that he and Fortis Capital Advisors have very congruent philosophies.

"It was clear from my initial meetings with Rob and the Fortis team that there is an incredibly strong cultural alignment and deep commitment to clients," he said. "Fortis represents a new generation of wealth management and was the right firm to join with."

Matt Joyner previously served as Vice President with Denver-based Personal Capital, now Empower Personal Wealth. Joyner joined Personal Capital after five years with Fisher Investments in Camas, Washington where he worked with over 190 clients and $230M in AUM.

About Fortis Capital Advisors

Fortis Capital is committed to advisor growth. We provide a cutting edge platform of technology, compliance, back-office support and wealth management/planning resources for advisors to focus primarily on what they do best, procuring new clients and continually building relationships with current clients. In addition to those resources, Fortis Capital helps advisors build around their practices with strong recruiting resources and practice acquisition tools and financing strategies. For more information, please visit fortiscapitaladvisors.com or call 913.222.8862.

Investment Advice is offered through Fortis Capital Advisors, LLC, 500 Damonte Ranch Parkway, Building 700, Unit 700, Reno, NV 89521.

SOURCE Fortis Capital Advisors
The Australian Brand Is Breaking Boundaries in the Beverage World

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. and SYDNEY, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Boundless is an Australian beverage brand that is built on innovation. The company's hydrogen water is uniquely manufactured using its cutting-edge manufacturing method, a process called hydrokinetic ultrasonic fluid mixing. This clean technology avoids the need for electrolysis, using simple yet effective sonic vibrations to combine its products' two key ingredients.

As much as Boundless is committed to facilitating high-quality hydration in the present, the tech-first avant-garde brand is also invested in paving the way for a sustainable future. "Using molecular vibration to create hydrogen water is just the beginning for us," says company CEO David Goo, "I know our emphasis right now is hydrogen water, but the truth is, science is just as much a part of our philosophy as health. We love to find cutting-edge ways to apply the latest science and tech breakthroughs into innovative health and wellness products."

Goo adds that this emphasis on innovation is matched by the Boundless team's relentless pursuit of sustainability. "Modern brands have a responsibility to consider how their activities impact the world," the CEO explains. "What good is a health product if it sacrifices the future in exchange for the present?"

This eco-conscious mindset can be seen throughout the Boundless brand. The company only sources green hydrogen for its products, and all of its cans are 100% recyclable. Even hydrokinetic ultrasonic fluid mixing is helpful in the battle against waste, as it's a chemical-free way to manufacture the hydrogen water itself.

From its sustainability efforts to its scientific focus, Boundless is a bleeding-edge beverage brand committed to creating safe, effective, and sustainable health products for its customers. The company is already wildly popular in the Land Down Under, and its recent entry into the U.S. market bodes well for Americans who value health and wellness and prioritize effective hydration.

About Boundless

Boundless Hydrogen Water was created by a research team led by Dr. Jeffery Son as a natural, comprehensive solution for his daughter's eczema. The product was successful, not just for topical skin but for various general health benefits. The Brand is established as a market leader through the development of the company's unique, non-chemical, Australian manufacturing method, and its founding team has worked tirelessly to share its hydrogen water with the world ever since. Boundless is backed by both science and continuous research and operates with the mission of using technology to unlock human potential and create the future of beverages. Learn more at boundlesshydrogenwater.com .

Media Contact:

David Goo

M 0478 915 888

Suite 6.11, 55 Miller Street, Pyrmont NSW 2009

SOURCE Boundless
IRVINE, Calif., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The U.S. legislature recently enacted the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Within the NDAA are a series of regulations referred to as the Anti-Money Laundering Act (AML).

Why you should use an Attorney to represent you in an audit

The new rules set forth by the AML establish the most significant changes to anti-money laundering law since the PATRIOT Act was passed in 2001. Several provisions have been established that enhance the government's ability to catch and penalize money launderers. The implications of these regulations can affect many different parties, from individuals with foreign bank accounts to art dealers and cryptocurrency companies.

Key Provisions of The Anti-Money Laundering Act

Several key reforms to anti-money laundering laws have been put in place when the U.S. Congress enacted the Anti-Money Laundering Act (AML).

Expanded Authority for the U.S. Government to Subpoena Foreign Financial Institutions

The AML expanded the authority of the U.S. government to request records from foreign financial institutions. Prior to the AML, the methods for acquiring documents from foreign banks were more difficult to employ successfully. Now, the process has been more streamlined. When the Department of Justice (DOJ) and U.S. Treasury investigate foreign bank holdings, they may now request any records pertaining to the account at issue or any other account at the bank.

Suppose a foreign bank does not comply with a subpoena issued by the U.S. government. In that case, the Department of Justice may ask for a court in the applicable jurisdiction to compel compliance. Afterward, if the bank still refuses to cooperate, then it may face potential sanctions and termination of certain accounts.

Heightened Civil and Criminal Penalties for Violations of the Banking Secrecy Act

The Banking Secrecy Act (BSA), like the AML, serves to enhance the enforcement of financial crimes like money laundering and tax evasion. The AML added provisions to the BSA that heighten penalties for those who purposely provide deceptive information to financial institutions. Furthermore, the AML strengthens the DOJ's ability to target corruption on an international level.

Under the AML, the new penalties for misleading financial institutions include imprisonment for up to 10 years and $1 million fines. If you need help determining if these penalties may be applied in your case, reach out to our legal team as soon as possible.

Reach of Banking Secrecy Act Expanded to Cover Antiquities and Cryptocurrency

Furthermore, the AML has altered definitions within the BSA to include artifacts, art, and virtual currencies. Accordingly, the prohibitions set forth by the BSA now also apply to transactions brokered by institutions that deal in cryptocurrencies and antiquities. Those who engage in money laundering practices with such assets may be punished the same as those attempting to hide fiat money.

Establishment of a Reporting Requirement for Beneficial Owners

The AML has also created a beneficial ownership reporting program that applies to limited liability companies, corporations, and other similar entities registered to do business in the U.S. Companies must use the program to provide the government with information about their "beneficial owners." Beneficial owners are those who control a minimum of 25% of companies' ownership interests. Additionally, individuals who directly or indirectly exercise substantial control over companies will be considered beneficial owners.

Information pertaining to beneficial owners should be reported to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN).

Enhanced Protections for Whistleblowers

Lastly, the AML has also expanded protections for whistleblowers and increased their potential rewards. To qualify for these benefits, whistleblowers must report information that leads to money launderers' convictions. Those who report such information will also be protected from retaliation.

Examples of Money Laundering Schemes

There are many different types of money laundering schemes. The following are common types of schemes that have been employed in the past:

Casino Laundering

Casinos are locations where a great deal of money changes hands. People with dirty money can launder it through casinos by buying chips, gambling in tiny amounts, and then cashing out. Perpetrators of casino laundering can face severe criminal penalties.

Bank Laundering

Bank laundering is a type of laundering that occurs when an individual who owns a financial institution moves funds through that institution and into another. This scheme can be difficult to detect because it often occurs using various currency exchanges.

Structuring

Structuring is a money laundering scheme when large amounts of cash are split into smaller pieces and deposited into many different accounts via money orders or cashier's checks. Another term for structuring is "smurfing."

Layering

Similar to structuring, layering is a money laundering scheme that involves putting dirty money through a high number of transactions and transfers. The goal of layering is to distance funds from their illegal origins.

Cash Business Laundering

It can be hard to detect money laundering through cash businesses like restaurants, laundromats, vending machines, and car washes. When large amounts of cash are already flowing into a business, it will likely be more difficult to prove that certain funds are being cleaned.

Trade-Based Laundering

Dirty money can also be cleaned by moving it through several different trade transactions. These transactions may involve falsely invoicing goods and services, falsely listing the sale of goods and services, or creating several invoices for singular transactions.

Laundering Through Cryptocurrency

Virtual currencies such as Bitcoin are not regulated in a uniform manner. This makes them an easy vehicle to facilitate the laundering of criminal funds. Laundering through cryptocurrency is a relatively new scheme, and regulators are still trying to catch up.

Real-Estate Laundering

Lastly, dirty money can also be cleaned by using it to purchase real estate. After the purchase, the newly acquired property can be sold for "clean" money.

Undisclosed Foreign Financial Accounts and Cryptocurrency Transactions

If you have failed report taxable income related to an offshore business, investment, or cash deposit, especially where you have also failed to file the related required foreign information reporting. If you have large amounts of taxable income that has gone unreported related to domestic or offshore cryptocurrency, failed to file a tax return for one or more years, or have taken a position on a tax return that could not be supported upon an IRS or state tax authority audit , eggshell audit , reverse eggshell audit , or criminal tax investigation , it is in your best interest to contact an experienced tax defense attorney to determine your best route back into federal or state tax compliance without facing criminal prosecution.

Note: As long as a taxpayer that has willfully committed tax crimes (potentially including non-filed foreign information returns coupled with affirmative evasion of U.S. income tax on offshore income including cryptocurrency) self-reports the tax fraud (including a pattern of non-filed returns) through a domestic or offshore voluntary disclosure before the IRS has started an audit or criminal tax investigation / prosecution, the taxpayer can ordinarily be successfully brought back into tax compliance and receive a nearly guaranteed pass on criminal tax prosecution and simultaneously often receive a break on the civil penalties that would otherwise apply.

It is imperative that you hire an experienced and reputable criminal tax defense attorney to take you through the voluntary disclosure process. Only an Attorney has the Attorney Client Privilege and Work Product Privileges that will prevent the very professional that you hire from being potentially being forced to become a witness against you, especially where they prepared the returns that need to be amended, in a subsequent criminal tax audit, investigation or prosecution.

Moreover, only an Attorney can enter you into a voluntary disclosure without engaging in the unauthorized practice of law (a crime in itself). Only an Attorney trained in Criminal Tax Defense fully understands the risks and rewards involved in voluntary disclosures and how to protect you if you do not qualify for a voluntary disclosure.

If you suspect that you may be charged with a tax crime, consult with our Dual Licensed Criminal Tax Defense Attorneys and CPAs at the Tax Law Offices of David W. Klasing. Call us today at (800) 681-1295 or click here to schedule a reduced rate initial consultation.

See our FBAR Compliance and Disclosure Q and A Library

See our Foreign Audit Q and A Library

See our Bitcoin and Cryptocurrency Q and A Library

See our International Tax Q and A Library

Here is a link to our YouTube channel: click here.

Public Contact: Dave Klasing Esq. M.S.-Tax CPA, [email protected]

SOURCE Tax Law Offices of David W. Klasing, PC
IRVINE, Calif., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- According to a Department of Justice press release , a Florida man was recently sentenced to serve two years in federal prison after being convicted of evading taxes of millions of dollars hidden in offshore financial accounts. The Treasury Department has made it known that taxpayers who engage in tax evasion by utilizing undisclosed overseas bank & financial accounts & unreported offshore income generating assets and businesses will be investigated and prosecuted. If you have an ownership interest in or signature authority over one or more foreign financial accounts and have not reported such interest on an annual basis, especially where you have evaded reportable taxable offshore income you are at high risk for criminal offshore tax and information reporting violations. We can work to mitigate this risk to practically zero if you are willing to reach out to the IRS before they reach out to you.

Why you should use an Attorney to represent you in an audit

Note: As long as a taxpayer that has willfully committed tax crimes (potentially including non-filed foreign information returns coupled with affirmative evasion of U.S. income tax on offshore income) self-reports the tax fraud (including a pattern of non-filed returns) through a domestic or offshore voluntary disclosure before the IRS has started an audit or criminal tax investigation / prosecution, the taxpayer can ordinarily be successfully brought back into tax compliance and receive a nearly guaranteed pass on criminal tax prosecution and simultaneously often receive a break on the civil penalties that would otherwise apply.

It is imperative that you hire an experienced and reputable criminal tax defense attorney to take you through the voluntary disclosure process. Only an Attorney has the Attorney Client Privilege and Work Product Privileges that will prevent the very professional that you hire from being potentially being forced to become a witness against you, especially where they prepared the returns that need to be amended, in a subsequent criminal tax audit, investigation or prosecution.

Moreover, only an Attorney can enter you into a voluntary disclosure without engaging in the unauthorized practice of law (a crime in itself). Only an Attorney trained in Criminal Tax Defense fully understands the risks and rewards involved in voluntary disclosures and how to protect you if you do not qualify for a voluntary disclosure.

As uniquely qualified and extensively experienced Criminal Tax Defense Tax Attorneys, Kovel CPAs and EAs, our firm provides a one stop shop to efficiently achieve the optimal and predictable results that simultaneously protect your liberty and your net worth. See our Testimonials to see what our clients have to say about us!

Defendant Hid Millions Offshore, Failed to Comply with FBAR Laws

This posting serves as an update to a blog posting that we previously brought our readers. If you recall from our post early last year , a Lake Worth, Florida resident pleaded guilty in early 2020 to several criminal tax-related counts that stemmed from his actions in his role as owner and operator of an agricultural machinery company. His company focused on buying machinery and parts and selling them to buyers inside and outside the United States.

Although he did not draw a salary from the company, he did extensively use the business bank accounts to pay for his lavish lifestyle. Some of his expenses included the purchase of a yacht, the purchase of several homes, and the acquisition of other real property in Serbia. Prosecutors alleged that between 2007 and 2011, He transferred more than $5.8 million of company profits to bank accounts in foreign countries. From 2007 through 2014, the defendant was responsible for the company's failure to pay any corporate tax, despite its more than $7.7 million in income. Additionally, he or the company never filed employment tax returns or paid over the associated payroll tax.

Federal authorities also asserted that he had various foreign bank accounts that went unreported. Federal law requires that bank accounts at foreign financial institutions with a combined high balance of $10,000 or more at any point in the year must be disclosed on a Report of Foreign Bank or Financial Account (FBAR). Prosecutors asserted that although he knew of his legal obligation to file an FBAR, he willfully failed to do so, which is a separate felony.

In 2015, his Swiss bank closed his account and suggested that he enter into the IRS Offshore Voluntary Disclosure Program (OVDP). The OVDP allows taxpayers to avoid criminal prosecution for failing to file an FBAR so long as the taxpayer files several years of amended or delinquent tax returns and agrees to pay applicable fines and penalties. He chose to not participate in the OVDP. Instead, he made a "quiet disclosure" by filing several years of delinquent tax returns, but IRS investigators pointed out that even those were false because they did not include any indication of his interest in his foreign bank accounts or the de facto income that he earned from his company.

IRS officials and DOJ prosecutors estimate that he caused a tax loss of at least $2.7 million. In addition to being sentenced to 24 months in federal prison, he was also ordered to serve two years of supervised release to commence upon the completion of his physical incarceration. Additionally, he was ordered to pay restitution to the IRS of $1,789,538, representing the tax loss that he caused.

Understanding and Coming into Compliance with FBAR Laws

Federal law requires Americans to disclose the existence of any foreign bank accounts under the Foreign Bank Account Reporting (FBAR) regime. FBAR requirements entail providing basic information about your foreign bank account to the U.S. government. Only bank accounts with a high balance of $10,000 or more are required to report under the regime. For those who fail to comply with the FBAR regime, the results can be rather draconian. Willful failure to file an FBAR can result in criminal prosecution and a penalty of up to half of the high balance of the account for each year of noncompliance.

Many Americans with undisclosed accounts commonly justify their FBAR noncompliance by questioning the ability of the U.S. government to discover their hidden bank & financial accounts and associated offshore evaded taxable investment or business income. But over the past 10 years, the federal government's ability to detect secret foreign bank accounts has skyrocketed. The U.S. frequently works with foreign banks and governments to uncover American tax evaders via reciprocal information sharing agreements and FACTA to tie U.S. tax residents to offshore financial accounts and income generating investments and businesses that have not been reported for income tax or foreign information reporting purposes.

If you have foreign bank & financial accounts and have failed to report their existence for one or more years, it is in your best interest to contact an experienced FBAR defense attorney to determine how to bring you into compliance without facing criminal prosecution. With IRS offshore focused audits increasing and diplomatic efforts to share information across countries strengthening, it is only a matter of time until your hidden bank or financial account along with its evaded reportable taxable income is uncovered.

If you find yourself under audit with undisclosed foreign account(s) you need us much more than you could possibly imagine to keep the issue from going criminal via and eggshell or reverse egg shell audit.

We Are Here for You

Regardless of your business or estate needs, the professionals at the Tax Law Offices of David W. Klasing are here for you. We are open for business and our team will help ensure that your business is too. Contact the Law Offices of David W. Klasing today to discuss your business with one of our professionals.

In addition to our main office in Irvine , the Tax Law Offices of David W. Klasing has unstaffed (conference room only) satellite offices in Los Angeles , San Bernardino , Santa Barbara , Panorama City , Oxnard , San Diego , Bakersfield , San Jose , San Francisco , Oakland , Carlsbad and Sacramento . During the COVID-19 pandemic, our staff are working from home, but have full virtual meeting capability.

Our office technology allows clients to meet virtually via GoToMeeting . With end-to-end encryption, strong passwords, and top-rated reliability, no one is messing with your meeting. To schedule a reduced rate initial consultation via GoToMeeting follow this link . Call our office and request a GoToMeeting if you are an existing client.

Here is a link to our YouTube channel: click here!

Public Contact: Dave Klasing Esq. M.S.-Tax CPA, [email protected]

SOURCE Tax Law Offices of David W. Klasing, PC
IRVINE, Calif., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- California residents are highly familiar with the Franchise Tax Board when tax season rolls around. It is even likely that you may have owed money to the FTB at one point or another. In addition to collecting taxes from Californians, the FTB also performs tax audits to examine whether a company or individual taxpayer has taken a defensible position on their tax filings. If you are audited, rest assured, the state of California doubts the position you claimed is fully defensible.

Why you should use an Attorney to represent you in an audit

Just like federal audits, California auditors take a prove it or lose its stance when it comes to claimed deductions and consider every deposit to a taxpayer's personal & business accounts as taxable income unless you can prove it is not. It is one thing to make mistakes or have difficulty fully substantiating returns that you have filed with California, it is quite another to get caught red handed filing obviously fraudulent California tax returns. If know for a fact that you cheated on the tax returns under audit do not hire the original preparer to defend you in the California audit as they are likely to be government witness number one against you if California should choose to prosecute you. Hire our dually licensed Tax Attorneys and CPAs to ensure the audit stays about tax penalties and interest and does not put your net worth and very liberty at risk.

How does the FTB choose whom to audit?

To determine whether it is necessary to perform a tax audit, the FTB will analyze the following:

The audit and law enforcement history of the taxpayer.

Referrals from other California Tax Authorities: i.e., EDD, CDTFA.

Computerized statistical analysis of California and federal tax returns submitted by the taxpayer and especially differences between the two mandated by California law.

and federal tax returns submitted by the taxpayer and especially differences between the two mandated by law. Any statistically unusual deductions or exclusions claimed.

IRS & third-party data regarding the taxpayer including W2's and 1099's.

Professional licenses & real estate within the state coupled with non-filing or perceived underreporting of income compared to like professionals or property owners.

Egg Shell Audits.

Reverse Egg Shell Audits.

Information gleaned from an IRS audit (most common cause of FTB audit).

Suspected non reporting of California sourced income by a nonresident of California .

sourced income by a nonresident of . History of Net Operating Losses.

Taxpayers with a standard of living that is not supported by their history of reported income.

Suspected underreporting or nonreporting / evasion of income from pass through entities & related suspected basis issues.

Excessive or suspect unreimbursed employee expenses.

Suspect charitable contributions.

Suspect other state tax credits.

Suspect filing status like head of household.

Unreported or suspect sales of California real and personal property and 1031 exchanges.

real and personal property and 1031 exchanges. Abusive tax shelters.

Suspected involvement with California's Underground Economy

Underground Economy Suspect apportionment of entity net income to California by multi state businesses.

by multi state businesses. Referrals from the California Bureau of Investigation or FTB's Criminal Investigation Bureau.

There are several ways that the above could support a civil, eggshell, or reverse eggshell tax audit or criminal tax investigation by the FTB. For example, if you misplaced tax documents and consequently failed to report substantial amounts of income from a brokerage account, the FTB may interpret this as a deliberate attempt to hide a portion of your income. Understanding the red flags that could trigger an audit, eggshell audit, reverse eggshell audit or criminal tax investigation is vital for a taxpayer to lower their chances of being audited in the first place and for obtaining a favorable result if they come under scrutiny.

Inception of an FTB Audit

After investigating the available financial records and public information of a taxpayer, the FTB will send them written notice explaining their decision to begin an audit of the taxpayer's finances. This letter will state the name of the auditor assigned to your case and will also often request information on the tax prep company or software you used to prepare your tax return.

The FTB will also request specific substantiation that pertains to the purpose of the audit. For instance, if the FTB suspects a business did not correctly calculate their employee payroll tax, the FTB would request documents, representations & substation relevant to this issue.

FTB Audit Results

After inspecting the documents provided by the taxpayer, FTB records, and IRS records, the auditor will determine whether you should be assessed taxes, interest back to the original filing date of the returns at issue, and penalties. Taxpayers who are deemed to owe taxes will be provided with a Notice of Proposed Assessment (NPA). The NPA will lay out all taxes owed and any penalties and interest the FTB added due to errors found on the taxpayer's return.

When the FTB issues an NPA, the taxpayer has two options. First, the taxpayer could accept the findings of the FTB and agree to pay the tax. This is often wise if potential criminal exposure has been encountered during the audit. If the FTB made a mistake as to the law or facts at issue in a straight civil audit, it is often advisable and makes economic sense to challenge the assessment by the FTB. Fortunately, we have dually licensed California Tax Attorneys and CPAs on staff that are knowledgeable, ethical, and experienced and successful in appealing the audit decisions of the FTB in warranted circumstances. We can help you determine when it may make economic sense to file an appeal and help you gauge the odds of success.

There is also a slim possibility that an FTB audit will reveal that a taxpayer paid too much money in taxes. In this rare case, a refund is issued to the taxpayer for the over-assessment. In even rarer instances, the FTB could also find that the taxpayer does not owe any additional taxes at all and would then terminate the "no change" audit.

Our Solemn Pledge to Our Clients Contemplating an Appeal

We will never put our inherent need to make a living above the well being of a client by pursuing an appeal that does not make economic sense or have a sufficiently high likelihood of success, to make a buck at a client's expense like some of our competitors and known to do.

How Do You Appeal an FTB Audit in California?

As mentioned, a taxpayer has the option of appealing the audit findings of the FTB within 60 days of their decision. When protesting the FTB audit, you need to provide legal and factual reasoning for the appeal and request a date for an oral argument. We excel at making legal and factual arguments which is perhaps the strongest reason to hire our dually licensed Tax Attorneys and CPAs to handle the appeal for you. At this point, you could also choose to pay the FTB tax assessment to stop the accrual of interest while the case is ongoing but that may not be advisable as in our experience it hardens the resolve of the FTB when they already have the money at issue.

The initial appeal of an audit will be presided over by an impartial representative from the FTB. You will be allowed to present legal documents, oral arguments, and other forms of evidence to attempt to prove that the results of the audit were incorrect on the law or the facts. After hearing the arguments of the taxpayer and the FTB, the tax assessment will be confirmed, withdrawn, or modified.

If you are unsuccessful with the FTB's internal appeals process, you have the additional option of pursuing an appeal through the Office of Tax Appeals (OTA). The OTA came into existence because of decades of egregious complaints of California residents and in state and out of state businesses that complained to the California Legislature of only being allowed 20 minutes to make a case in front of the Board of Equalization which consisted of elected officials that for the most part rubber stamped the actions of the various California Taxing Authorities from which they appealed. The OTA was California's attempt to parallel the perceived justice afforded to taxpayers by the Federal Tax Courts. Unfortunately, the administrative law judges hired to staff the OTA are to date largely ex-employees of the very California Taxing Authorities that they are charged with adjudicating. Unfortunately, the rubber stamping of the BOE is now being reduced to precedential case law by the OTA and the written opinions of the BOE became precedential decisions for the OTA to follow. In any event, the OTA must receive notice of your intent to appeal within 30 days of the conclusion of the FTB hearing. You would be well advised to hire legal counsel before proceeding with your appeal to this level.

The OTA will examine the evidence presented by you and the FTB and will provide a binding decision on the matter that has to date been largely in favor of the California taxing authorities. If the decision is unfavorable, you could request a rehearing if you have new evidence to present or if you want to attempt to claim the OTA made an error in the original hearing.

Your last option to appeal the FTB tax audit and the OTA is to file a lawsuit in California Superior Court.

As you can see, handling an appeal of an FTB audit is not a task that is easily handled. You may have months of work ahead of you if an FTB appeal is in your future where you believe that you were incorrectly assessed tax, penalties, and interest. Our dually licensed California Tax Attorneys and CPAs are here to help make the most of the appeals process.

Here is a link to our YouTube channel: click here!

Public Contact: Dave Klasing Esq. M.S.-Tax CPA, [email protected]

SOURCE Tax Law Offices of David W. Klasing, PC
IRVINE, Calif., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- We tend to think about offshore banks, pension and financial accounts and income generating assets as outside of the reach of the federal government. However, this is far from the case. We can see this in the example of the Bank of Butterfield, which just recently entered a non-prosecution agreement (NPA) with the United States government.

New OVDP

The NPA forces Butterfield to hand over funds associated with their part in connection to enabling their clients' tax evasion schemes. But it also creates a mandate that Butterfield cooperate fully with additional IRS civil and criminal tax investigations over the next three years, starting with the discovery of roughly 386 client files on U.S. taxpayer-clients who may have intentionally or accidently fallen astray of the tax code. The NPA also prevents Butterfield from contesting a U.S. government civil forfeiture action.

The IRS has made no secret that it intends to ramp up its prosecution of U.S. tax offenders that utilize undisclosed foreign accounts and evade taxes on offshore businesses and investments, especially those who attempt to hide funds overseas. If you had or currently have an account with the Bank of Butterfield, or currently have an account with a similar institution that may come under government scrutiny, we can help. Call the dual licensed International Tax Attorneys and CPAs at the Tax Law Offices of David W. Klasing for an evaluation of your options. We can be reached at (800) 681-1295 or schedule online here.

NOTE: As long as a taxpayer that has willfully committed tax crimes (potentially including non-filed foreign information returns coupled with affirmative evasion of U.S. income tax on offshore income) self-reports the tax fraud (including a pattern of non-filed returns) through a domestic or offshore voluntary disclosure before the IRS has started an audit or criminal tax investigation / prosecution, the taxpayer can ordinarily be successfully brought back into tax compliance and receive a nearly guaranteed pass on criminal tax prosecution and simultaneously often receive a break on the civil penalties that would otherwise apply.

It is imperative that you hire an experienced and reputable criminal tax defense attorney to take you through the voluntary disclosure process. Only an Attorney has the Attorney Client Privilege and Work Product Privileges that will prevent the very professional that you hire from being potentially being forced to become a witness against you, especially where they prepared the returns that need to be amended, in a subsequent criminal tax audit, investigation or prosecution.

Moreover, only an Attorney can enter you into a voluntary disclosure without engaging in the unauthorized practice of law (a crime in itself). Only an Attorney trained in Criminal Tax Defense fully understands the risks and rewards involved in voluntary disclosures and how to protect you if you do not qualify for a voluntary disclosure.

As uniquely qualified and extensively experienced Criminal Tax Defense Tax Attorneys, Kovel CPAs and EAs, our firm provides a one stop shop to efficiently achieve the optimal and predictable results that simultaneously protect your liberty and your net worth See our Testimonials to see what our clients have to say about us!

USAO SDNY, Bank of Butterfield Enter Agreement to Resolve Investigation

Earlier this month, Audrey Strauss, the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, with several colleagues, announced via press release that the U.S. Attorney's Office entered into a non-prosecution agreement ("NPA") with the Bank of N.T. Butterfield & Son Limited.

Butterfield, a publicly traded entity (NYSE: NTB) based in Bermuda, has been facing a Department of Justice inquiry stemming from legacy business with U.S. clients that was first reported in November of 2013. U.S. taxpayer-clients account for a large slice of Butterfield's pie  according to the text of the NPA, accounts open at Butterfield's Bermuda and Cayman Islands operations that were held by U.S. taxpayer-clients accounted for roughly $433 million in assets under management.

Butterfield avoids prosecution for their alleged role in assisting U.S. taxpayer-clients in their effort to open and maintain undeclared foreign bank accounts from 2001 through 2013. The NPA runs for a term of three years, so if Butterfield breaks with their cooperation during that period of time, they open themselves up again to prosecution.

As part of the NPA, Butterfield agreed to pay $5.6 million to the U.S. government. Roughly $4.9 millions of that total represents the fees that Butterfield charged for their illicit services. The remaining $700,000 will be paid directly to the IRS in restitution for the estimated amount of unpaid taxes due to the tax evasion.

Additionally, and perhaps most critically, Butterfield also agreed as part of their "extraordinary cooperation" (according to the press release) to provide the IRS's Criminal Division with approximately 386 client files for those U.S. taxpayer clients that were allegedly noncompliant with United States tax code.

Impact of Butterfield NPA on U.S. Taxpayers

Strauss, head of what many consider to be the most capable arm of the United States Justice Department, suggested that this NPA is just one of many future bullet points on the U.S. roadmap of targeting evasion enablers like Butterfield. According to Strauss, "We will continue to pursue financial services firms around the world that help their clients evade U.S. taxes."

James C. Lee, Chief of the IRS Criminal Investigations Division (IRS-CI), sent a message to would-be foreign account-holding tax evaders: "Anyone who is hiding money or assets offshore with the intent of committing tax evasion will be found and prosecuted. It's not a matter of 'if,' it's a matter of 'when.'"

The IRS and the rest of the federal government are determined to make this latest development into a merely a footnote as part of a much larger operation to track down and eliminate offshore tax evasion schemes. If you are worried about future government actions that may compromise your assets, speak to one of our dual licensed tax attorneys and CPAs today.

If You Have a Butterfield Account, You May Face an IRS Investigation

The press release announcing the Butterfield NPA specifically says the following: "The NPA ... recognizes Butterfield's cooperation, including its efforts to facilitate the production of approximately 386 client files for non-compliant U.S. taxpayers, which included the identities of those U.S. taxpayers."

The government can use any of the information gleaned from the NPA to mount audits and investigations of any U.S. taxpayer identified Butterfield's information dump.

But the information breach is not done yet. As noted above, the term of the cooperation required by the NPA is three years from the date of the agreement. If the federal government comes knocking at Butterfield's door any time over those three years, the bank is obligated to cooperate with the government's requests or else open themselves up again for prosecution, a fate they expressly hoped to avoid by agreeing to the NPA.

This cooperation also encompasses compliance with civil forfeiture actions. Civil forfeiture is the U.S. government's ability to seize any assets that they have reason to believe may have been used in furtherance of a crime. This would include financial assets (like foreign bank accounts) that may have been used to subvert tax liability.

The explicit wording contained in the press release reads as follows: "In connection with this forfeiture, Butterfield has agreed not to contest a civil forfeiture action filed by the United States." Without the assistance of the bank, any client funds that are held by Butterfield are subject to the prying eyes (and reaching arms) of the federal government.

Call Us Today to Shore Up Your Defenses Against IRS Investigations

When the IRS gets its hands on a possible tax evasion scheme, they rarely let up. Taking the steps now to prevent such a situation can be as easy as calling the Tax Law Offices of David W. Klasing. We can be reached at (800) 681-1295.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g2UlIE8oxPA

https://youtu.be/f6Td79npgCs

Questions and Answers About Foreign Tax Audits

Questions and Answers about FBAR Compliance and Disclosure

Questions and Answers about Offshore Voluntary Disclosure Initiative (OVDI)

We Are Here for You

Regardless of your business or estate needs, the professionals at the Tax Law Offices of David W. Klasing are here for you. We are open for business and our team will help ensure that your business is too. Contact the Law Offices of David W. Klasing today to discuss your business with one of our professionals.

In addition to our main office in Irvine, the Tax Law Offices of David W. Klasing has unstaffed (conference room only) satellite offices in Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Santa Barbara, Panorama City, Oxnard, San Diego, Bakersfield, San Jose, San Francisco, Oakland, Carlsbad and Sacramento.

Our office technology allows clients to meet virtually via GoToMeeting. With end-to-end encryption, strong passwords, and top-rated reliability, no one is messing with your meeting. To schedule a reduced rate initial consultation via GoToMeeting follow this link. Call our office and request a GoToMeeting if you are an existing client.

Here is a link to our YouTube channel: click here!

Public Contact: Dave Klasing Esq. M.S.-Tax CPA, [email protected]

SOURCE Tax Law Offices of David W. Klasing, PC
IRVINE, Calif., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ --The federal government is not messing around when it comes to targeting improperly concealed foreign assets. Offshore tax evasion schemes have plagued the IRS for years, but new tactics available to prosecutors are opening the door to more investigations, penalties, and even convictions for U.S. taxpayers.

New OVDP

Most recently, the Southern District of New York issued John Doe Summonses to uncover information about potential tax evaders who used a Panamanian law firm suspected of assisting in creating vehicles for concealing taxable foreign income generating assets from the U.S. government. These summonses will turn over evidence on potentially hundreds of U.S. taxpayers who may have intentionally fallen out of compliance with the federal tax code. If the recent IRS activity worries you, there are steps that you can take to defend yourself if you act fast. However, attempting to take these steps without the assistance of the professionals could put you in a worse situation than where you started.

The Tax Law Office of David W. Klasing is here for all of your tax needs. Our dual-certified tax attorneys and CPAs have years of experience standing up to the IRS on behalf of our personal and small business clients. To hear more about our services, call us at (800) 681-1295.

Note: As long as a taxpayer that has willfully committed tax crimes (potentially including non-filed foreign information returns coupled with affirmative evasion of U.S. income tax on offshore income) self-reports the tax fraud (including a pattern of non-filed returns) through a domestic or offshore voluntary disclosure before the IRS has started an audit or criminal tax investigation / prosecution, the taxpayer can ordinarily be successfully brought back into tax compliance and receive a nearly guaranteed pass on criminal tax prosecution and simultaneously often receive a break on the civil penalties that would otherwise apply.

It is imperative that you hire an experienced and reputable criminal tax defense attorney to take you through the voluntary disclosure process. Only an Attorney has the Attorney Client Privilege and Work Product Privileges that will prevent the very professional that you hire from being potentially being forced to become a witness against you, especially where they prepared the returns that need to be amended, in a subsequent criminal tax audit, investigation or prosecution.

Moreover, only an Attorney can enter you into a voluntary disclosure without engaging in the unauthorized practice of law (a crime in itself). Only an Attorney trained in Criminal Tax Defense fully understands the risks and rewards involved in voluntary disclosures and how to protect you if you do not qualify for a voluntary disclosure.

As uniquely qualified and extensively experienced Criminal Tax Defense Tax Attorneys, Kovel CPAs and EAs, our firm provides a one stop shop to efficiently achieve the optimal and predictable results that simultaneously protect your liberty and your net worth. See our Testimonials to see what our clients have to say about us!

New York District Court Approved John Doe Summons for Clients of Panama Offshore Legal Services

In late July, the U.S. District Court for Southern District of New York (S.D.N.Y.) ordered multiple John Doe Summonses to be issued to several businesses in the financial services industry. The summonses will seek information concerning taxpayer clients who used a certain offshore law firm. That law firm, Panama Offshore Legal Services, has drawn the ire of the Southern District for their suspected assistance of U.S. taxpayers involved in illegal offshore tax evasion schemes.

Panama Offshore Legal Services (or "POLS") is a Panamanian law firm that allegedly offers services to U.S. taxpayers that would assist them in concealing assets held in offshore entities and accounts. Associates of the POLS group offer assistance in creating corporations, foundations, and financial accounts with "100% anonymity, privacy, and confidentiality." One group member allegedly advertises that their "carefully designed corporate strategy allows you to care for your loved ones free from probate, inheritance taxes, and other legal and tax problems." The IRS has already identified at least one U.S. taxpayer who used POLS or their associates to further an offshore tax evasion scheme.

This information was enough to provide grounds for the S.D.N.Y. to grant the IRS' request to use a legal tool known as a John Doe Summons. A John Doe Summons is used to obtain information about possible violations of internal revenue laws by individuals whose identities are known. In other words, the IRS will send a John Doe Summons to a company that is not under suspicion in order to discover information in their records about people or entities that are under suspicion.

These John Doe Summonses will be sent to 10 different entities: Federal Express Corporation; FedEx Ground Package System, Inc.; DHL Express; United Parcel Service, Inc.; the Federal Reserve Bank of New York; The Clearing House Payments Company LLC; HSBC Bank USA,, N.A.; Citibank, N.A.; Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.; and Bank of America, N.A.

Impact of the John Doe Summons on IRS Offshore Tax Evasion Crackdown

The John Doe Summons is a new but effective tool in the IRS' war chest. Essentially, the IRS can force companies with extensive records on large groups of people to cough up information on certain clients identified in the summons, whether the IRS knows about specific tax indiscretions or not. This allows the IRS to conduct massive civil & criminal investigations on multiple targets through one action.

Since everything these days is recorded digitally, the information dump yielded by a John Doe Summons can be examined quickly and thoroughly for any evidence of tax code impropriety. All of this information can be used against U.S. taxpayers in civil or criminal cases that the IRS decides to levy. In the case of criminal tax evasion, there is no statute of limitations, so they could reach as far back as possible in the collected data.

Though controversial, John Doe Summonses are becoming commonly used tools by IRS officers. This is not the first use of this weapon, and it will not be the last. By targeting the large corporations who are not directly involved in the evasion schemes, the government avoids hinging its case on the cooperation of a smaller, overseas firm that might otherwise fight them along the way in the name of their clients. John Doe Summonses save the IRS time and money. They are not going away any time soon.

How Can You Prevent IRS Investigations of Your Offshore Financial Assets?

The best option for many U.S. taxpayers who are concerned about the federal government's efforts to crack down on individuals or businesses with offshore holdings is called voluntary disclosure. The voluntary disclosure program exists to provide taxpayers who fear that their past filings may be flawed or incomplete to amend those filings by providing additional information without being prompted by an audit.

However, depending on the nature of the transgression, voluntary disclosure may fail to help or even hurt the honest taxpayer. Further, the government may already have information on your noncompliance, which would make any disclosure much less effective. If you utilized a firm such as POLS that is already under investigation, it is safe to assume that you are already on the government's radar. In this case, there are other steps that you should be taking that will help shore up your defenses for when the government comes knocking on your door.

We Are Ready to Help You Prevent IRS Audits for Offshore Assets and to help you Come Back into Compliance Without Facing Criminal Tax Prosecution.

No matter what your tax situation may be, the dual-certified tax attorneys and CPAs at the Tax Law Offices of David W. Klasing are ready to assist you. If you have concerns, your best bet is to contact us today for an evaluation. We can be reached at (800) 681-1295.

See our 2011 OVDI Q and A Library

See our FBAR Compliance and Disclosure Q and A Library

See our Foreign Audit Q and A Library

Here is a link to our YouTube channel: click here!

Public Contact: Dave Klasing Esq. M.S.-Tax CPA, [email protected]

SOURCE Tax Law Offices of David W. Klasing, PC
SAN CLEMENTE, Calif., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- More than 70 amazing young international educators, therapists, nurses and other care professionals will descend upon San Clemente from all over the USA from May 5 to May 7 to bond, have fun  and learn to surf! These exceptional twenty-something women and men primarily from Germany and Austria are in this country on a special U.S. Department of State J-1 cultural exchange visitor visa to participate in a unique live-in child care solution for families with varying needs.

Referred to as "Apex Care Professionals", they are all here thanks to Apex Social Group, an organization providing developmental live-in childcare and cultural exchange. These young adults hold degrees in fields such as pediatric nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, early childhood development or special needs education from their home country. Because of their education as well as their heart for children of all abilities, many of the host families who choose to host and employ them have a child with special needs.

Apex Social Group, a leader in developmental child care, makes a big splash in San Clement CA! Tweet this

"We are grateful to have Sophia on our care team and feel like we won the lottery when she moved in with us," said Julia Griffiths who lives in San Francisco." She has employed her training as an occupational therapist to be an active partner with us in identifying new activities and helping us manage positive behavior changes in both children."

Some of the Apex Care Professionals have never surfed before, so the experience they will have in San Clemente will surely be unforgettable. "I can't wait to come to San Clemente and learn to surf," said Enya Bartsch, an occupational therapist from Germany. After spending a year in New Jersey with an Apex host family, learning to surf is like a dream for her. "I've only been to the Pacific ocean a few times so this will really be amazing for me, and one more thing to cross off my bucket list!"

Apex Social, based in San Clemente, which sponsors and empowers the young professionals is hosting the 14th Annual Apex Social Surf Outing as a thank you and to provide a meaningful and fun experience for the Apex Care Professionals who work so hard all year with their host children.

San Clemente resident, Susan Asay, Founder and CEO of Apex Social said, "Putting together this event for these incredible young professionals is truly a labor of love. I am so grateful and proud of them, that they are getting outside their comfort zone - once again, when I see the joy in their faces, while watching them catch their first wave and experience my beloved San Clemente, which is also my home of choice."

Local surf instructors from JP's San Clemente Surf School will give lessons to the Apex Care Professionals and Pro Surfer Rocky McKinnon of Huntington Beach will provide adaptive surf experience for Apex host children with special needs and different abilities.

Rocky will share his story as pioneer of the first Adaptive Surfing program in Huntington Beach. He continues to push board innovation with the "Chair Board" design, utilized in his Adaptive Surfing Program and other community surfing events. He has partnered with Ride a Wave Foundation, Best Day Foundation, Operation Amped, and many more.

An Apex Social host family from Sherman Oaks was invited to have their daughter Sadie who has Rett Syndrome, a rare genetic condition, participate in a McKinnon Adaptive Surf lesson at a previous Apex Social Surf Outing. "Watching Sadie catch her first wave was unforgettable," said her mom, Stephanie Bohn. "It was a powerful reminder to us that Sadie loves adventure and we should never let her disability get in the way of trying new things. We were grateful to Apex for partnering with us to find amazing Apex Care Professionals for Sadie and for inviting Sadie to be a part of this special experience and cannot wait to try it again this spring."

It is a special honor, Asay said, to welcome for the first time, representatives from the US Department of State and from the Apex Social partners in Germany, including The Ludewig Fresenius Schulen, IU International University, Hamburg; the Dean of University of Applied Science for Healthcare and Social Science, Zwickau; and the Nursing Manager Association of Germany.

"This German-American exchange brings people together from different backgrounds to learn from each other, and is a great way to contribute to the exchange of knowledge for healthcare and education professionals," said Asay.

According to Sarah Kodinsky, Executive Vice President at Apex Social, "The excitement for the event this year is palpable. This is the first year we are bringing back the event full-scale since Covid, and we are all so happy and grateful to be able to positively influence so many lives  the lives of the families we serve, and the young Apex Care Professionals who make such a big difference in their lives."

About Apex Social

Founded in 2008, Apex Social Group is the leading Child Care Provider for families with children of all abilities and all ages - from newborns to young adults. Apex Social is particularly situated to assist families with children who have special needs as our Apex Care Professionals - both from the United States and abroad - have specialized training in fields which include nursing, occupational and physical therapy, and speech therapy. Apex Social offers a boutique-style service experience that reaches beyond the traditional nanny agency service.

To learn more about Apex Social Group, visit apex-social.com and follow Apex Social on Facebook , Instagram and LinkedIn .

Media Contact

Spring Mingey

[email protected]

SOURCE Apex Social Group
BEIJING, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Gaotu Techedu Inc. ("Gaotu" or the "Company") (NYSE: GOTU), a technology-driven education company and online large-class tutoring service provider in China, today filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission its annual report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022. The annual report on Form 20-F is available on the Company's investor relations website at https://ir.gaotu.cn/.

The annual report contains audited financial statements, management's discussion and analysis and other disclosures.

The Company will provide a hard copy of its annual report containing the audited consolidated financial statements, free of charge, to its shareholders and ADS holders upon request. Requests should be directed to Investor Relations Department, Gaotu Techedu Inc., 5F, Gientech Building, 17 East Zone, 10 Xibeiwang East Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, People's Republic of China.

About Gaotu Techedu Inc.

Gaotu is a technology-driven education company and online large-class tutoring service provider in China. The Company offers learning services and educational content & digitalized learning products. Gaotu adopts an online live large-class format to deliver its courses, which the Company believes is the most effective and scalable model to disseminate scarce high-quality teaching resources to aspiring students in China. Big data analytics permeates every aspect of the Company's business and facilitates the application of the latest technology to improve teaching delivery, student learning experience, and operational efficiency.

For further information, please contact:

Gaotu Techedu Inc.

Investor Relations

E-mail: [email protected]

Christensen

In China

Ms. Vivian Wang

Phone: +852 2232 3978

E-mail: [email protected]

In the US

Ms. Linda Bergkamp

Phone: +1-480-614-3004

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Gaotu Techedu Inc.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. A meeting between the co-chairs of the Azerbaijani-Israeli joint intergovernmental commission - Minister of Economy of Azerbaijan Mikayil Jabbarov and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Israel Eli Cohen was held, Trend reports citing the Ministry of Economy.

Jabbarov emphasized the high level of ties between Azerbaijan and Israel. It was noted that the opening of the embassy of our country in Israel indicates the rise of bilateral relations to a new level. The Azerbaijani-Israeli Joint Intergovernmental Commission, as well as the Trade Representation of Azerbaijan in Israel are important platforms for the development of partnership between our countries. Countries continue to work to strengthen economic and trade cooperation.

It was noted that Israel is one of the main trading partners of Azerbaijan, there is effective cooperation in the areas of mutual investment, energy, agriculture, IT, innovation, pharmaceuticals, tourism, etc. Last year, active work was carried out to expand ties between business circles. Work continues on the implementation of joint investment projects with Israeli companies. There are also partnerships with Israeli companies in the fields of industrial zones and agro-parks, water management and other industries. Cooperation with Israel in the field of innovative development and digital economy is of particular importance for Azerbaijan.

Jabbarov informed Israeli FM about the favorable business climate in Azerbaijan, construction projects implemented in the liberated territories, the activities of industrial zones, the possibilities of the Alat Free Economic Zone.

Eli Cohen noted that Israel attaches great importance to expanding ties with Azerbaijan, as well as noted the interest of Israeli companies in partnership in various fields, noted the wide opportunities for strengthening cooperation.

The sides also discussed the current state and prospects of relations between the two countries.
To display a large media facade on its Yong-in R&D Center

YONGIN, South Korea, April 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- GC Biopharma (006280.KS), a leading provider of biopharmaceutical products in South Korea, takes part in a campaign to celebrate World Hemophilia Day.

The company announced that a large media facade had lit up its R&D Center building located in Yong-in, Gyeonggi-do, Korea on 16th and 17th to mark the World Hemophilia Day.

World Federation of Hemophilia (WFH) has been commemorating World Hemophilia Day on April 17th every year since 1989 and runs campaigns to increase the understanding and awareness about hemophilia and other bleeding disorders.

This year's slogan, "Access for All: Prevention of bleeds as the global standard of care" is designed to emphasize the importance of improved access to treatment for all people around the world with bleeding disorders.

Hemophilia is a rare genetic bleeding disorder in which the blood lacks its capacity to clot. Around 2,500 people are registered as hemophilia patients in Korea. GC Biopharma, since its foundation, has been putting continuous efforts in providing better treatment conditions for people with hemophilia.

"We will continue our R&D efforts for improving treatment access for all patients with hemophilia while carrying out other awareness campaigns to increase social understanding about the bleeding disorders.", said an official from GC Biopharma.

About GC Biopharma

GC Biopharma (formerly known as Green Cross Corporation) is a biopharmaceutical company that delivers life-saving and life-sustaining protein therapeutics and vaccines. Headquartered in Yongin, South Korea, GC Biopharma is one of the leading plasma protein and vaccine product manufacturers globally and has been dedicated to quality healthcare solutions for more than half a century.

This press release may contain forward-looking statements, which express the current beliefs and expectations of GC Biopharma's management. Such statements do not represent any guarantee by GC Biopharma or its management of future performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors. GC Biopharma undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement contained in this press release or any other forward-looking statements it may make, except as required by law or stock exchange rule.

GC Biopharma Contacts (Media)

Seunghyun Baek

[email protected]

Yelin Jun

[email protected]

Sohee Kim

[email protected]

SOURCE GC Biopharma
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- GI Partners, a leading private alternatives investment firm, has announced the acquisition of 43915 Devin Shafron Drive in Ashburn, VA, continuing its strategy of acquiring and managing technology enabled real estate. The property is located in a highly networked 98-acre campus that is managed by one of the world's leading data center operators.

The property is 100% leased to two credit-worthy tenants and has been institutionally maintained since initial construction in 2010. The property offers 9 MW of critical power and has the ability to expand in the future. The facility provides redundant electrical and mechanical improvements and multiple connectivity options through the adjacent campus.

John Sheputis, Managing Director, and Patrick Lawler, Director of GI Partners said, "This property is centrally situated within the largest and most important data center market in the country. The recent leasing velocity of Northern Virginia affirms the value tenants place on locating at the center of the modern digital ecosystem. This network dense data center is a great addition to our core investment programs and demonstrates our commitment to being a trusted counterparty in all circumstances."

CBRE Data Center Capital Markets represented the seller on this transaction.

The Tech + Science real estate portfolio managed by GI Partners Real Estate totals 49 properties comprising 10.1 million square feet across 12 different leading markets.

About GI Partners

Founded in 2001, GI Partners is a private investment firm with over 150 employees and offices in New York, Chicago, Greenwich, Scottsdale, San Francisco, London and Dallas. The firm has raised more than $40 billion and invests on behalf of leading institutional investors around the world through its private equity, real estate, and data infrastructure strategies. The private equity team invests primarily in companies in the healthcare, services, and software sectors. The real estate team focuses primarily on technology and life sciences properties as well as other specialized types of real estate. The data infrastructure team invests primarily in hard asset infrastructure businesses underpinning the digital economy. For more information, please visit www.gipartners.com.

Media Contacts:

Chris Tofalli

Chris Tofalli Public Relations LLC

914-834-4334

[email protected]

Gretchen Robinson

GI Partners

[email protected]

SOURCE GI Partners
DUBLIN, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Global Ceramic Sanitary Ware Market Forecast to 2027" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The Global Ceramic Sanitary Ware Market is expected to grow from US$ 2.4 Billion in 2021 to US$ 5.6 Billion by 2027; it is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 15.17% from 2022 to 2027.

Companies Mentioned

Geberit Group

Lixil Group Corporation

Villeroy & Boch Ag

Rak Ceramics

Toto Ltd

Kohler Co.

Duravit Ag

Duratex Sa

Roca Sanitario S.A.

Ceramic sanitary ware comprises components and fixtures used for sanitary purposes, including sinks, toilets, bathtubs, and washbasins. These products are typically tri-axial compounds made from various raw materials, such as feldspar, quartz, and clay. Customers highly demand ceramic sanitary ware due to its affordability, easy maintenance, and resistance to chemicals and scratches. Furthermore, these products come in a broad spectrum of colors and textures.



Market Drivers



The global ceramic sanitary ware market is expected to experience growth mainly due to the increasing popularity of ceramic materials in the construction industry. Moreover, the expansion of corporate businesses and government programs aimed at raising consumer awareness of the importance of proper sanitary products will contribute to market expansion. Furthermore, a shift in consumer preferences towards hygiene will drive market growth.



Market Restraints



The primary obstacle expected to impede the growth of the global ceramic sanitary ware market is the fluctuation in housing demand. Additionally, the market growth may be affected by environmental impact.



Impact of COVID-19



The COVID-19 outbreak has resulted in a decrease in the growth of the sanitary ware industry due to the slowdown in production. The spread of the coronavirus has had an adverse effect on the economy and financial conditions of the target market, which has slowed down the expansion of the sanitary ware industry.

Lockdowns imposed in response to the pandemic have halted the production of many sanitary goods. Supply chain disruptions and reduced consumer spending have also hindered the market's ability to expand. Therefore, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a considerable impact on the growth of the sanitary ware market.



Market Segmentations



The global ceramic sanitary ware market is divided into different segments based on product, application, and region. The product segment includes wash basins, toilet and water closets, urinals, and others. In 2018, toilet sinks and water closets had the highest revenue share and are expected to grow due to increasing customer demands for modern and aesthetically pleasing ceramic sanitary ware.

The application segment includes residential and commercial sectors, with the latter anticipated to have the largest share due to frequent use of sanitary items. The market is segmented into North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa. The North American market is expected to grow significantly due to the increasing demand for sanitary products in institutional and commercial sectors, as well as government initiatives to provide affordable ceramic sanitary.

Market Taxonomy

By Product

Wash Basins

Toilet and Water Closets

Urinals

Others

By Application

Residential

Commercial

By Region

North America

Latin America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Middle East & Africa

Key Questions Addressed by the Report

What are the Key Opportunities in Global Ceramic Sanitary Ware Market?

What will be the growth rate from 2022 to 2027?

Which segment/region will have highest growth?

What are the factors that will impact/drive the Market?

What is the competitive Landscape in the Industry?

What is the role of key players in the value chain?

What are the strategies adopted by key players?

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/vbn228

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
DUBLIN, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Composite Textiles Market Size, Share, Trend, Forecast, Competitive Analysis, and Growth Opportunity: 2023-2028" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The long-term outlook is expected to be rosy with healthy growth of 5.9% (CAGR) in the coming five years, pushing the market to reach a new milestone of US$ 9.5 billion in 2028.

There are more than 50 global and regional players, engaged in supplying composite textiles with a few players holding a distinct position in the market.

Key market participants have a wide-geographical presence and also gained excellent brand identity after dedicating eons of market presence and efforts to research & development. Composite textiles have gained significant interest as structural materials in many end-use industries owing to their value proposition and their unique combination of damage tolerance, delamination, and free and complex shape formability.



During the pandemic, when most industries were registering a huge decline, composite textiles got efficacious in dodging its impact. In the year 2020, the composite textiles market witnessed a mere decline of -1.7% amid the pandemic. The impact of the pandemic varied from industry to industry; however, a sharp rise in wind turbine installations ultimately helped the industry stakeholders to mark a low plunge, keeping other composite materials in mind.

Several factors are driving the demand for composite textiles out of which increasing penetration of composite materials in various end-use markets, increasing demand for lightweight materials, and increasing preference for composite textiles in large-sized applications such as boat hulls and wind turbine blades are expected to fuel the demand for composite textiles during the forecast period.



Recent Market JVs and Acquisitions:



Woven yarn is expected to remain the largest textile type in the market during the forecast period. There is a huge dominance of woven yarn in the electrical and electronics (E&E) industry, primarily used for making PCB laminates. Furthermore, the demand for carbon fiber textiles (usually sold in the form of woven yarn) is accelerating in most of the major markets including aerospace and wind energy.



Carbon fiber textile is expected to be the fastest-growing material type during the forecast period. Major factors driving the growth of carbon fiber textiles are the increasing demand for carbon composites from aerospace and wind turbine blades. Carbon fiber textiles offer a multitude of advantages compared with their competing materials including glass fiber textiles and metals in which weight reduction is the biggest one.



In terms of regions, Asia-Pacific is expected to remain the largest market for composite textiles during the forecast period. This region has the presence of major composite textile manufacturers, such as China Jushi Co. Ltd.; Nan Ya Plastics Corp.; Toray Industries; Inc.; and Chongqing Polycomp International Corp.

China alone registers more than one-third of the global sales in 2022. The high penetration of the wind energy industry in China has partially offset the overall market decline in the country. Europe is estimated to be the fastest-growing region during the forecast period, driven by an increased focus on wind energy and strong demand for lightweight parts for the automobile industry.



Key Players



The market is highly populated with the presence of several local, regional, and global players. Most of the major players compete in some of the governing factors including price, product offerings, regional presence, etc.

The following are the key players in the composite textiles market.

China Jushi Co., Ltd.

Chomarat Group

Chongqing Polycomp International Corporation

Hexcel Corporation

Nan Ya Plastics Corporation

Nippon Electric Glass Co. Ltd.

Owens Corning

Porcher Industries SA

Preiss-Daimler Group

SAERTEX GmbH & Co. KG

Sigmatex Limited

Toray Industries, Inc.

Key Topics Covered:

1. Executive Summary



2. Composite Textiles Market Environment Analysis

2.1. Supply Chain Analysis

2.2. PEST Analysis

2.3. Industry Life Cycle Analysis

2.4. Market Drivers

2.5. Market Challenges



3. Composite Textiles Market Assessment (2017-2028) (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

3.1. Reinforcement Market Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

3.2. Composite Textiles Market Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

3.3. Market Scenario Analysis: Growth Trajectories in Different Market Conditions

3.4. COVID-19 Impact Assessment and Expected Recovery Curve



4. Composite Textiles Market Segment Analysis (2017-2028) (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.1. Textile-Type Analysis

4.1.1. Perform: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.1.2. CSM: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.1.3. CFM: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.1.4. Woven Roving: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.1.5. Woven Yarn: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.1.6. Multi-Axials: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.2. Material-Type Analysis

4.2.1. Glass Fiber Textile: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.2.2. Carbon Fiber Textile: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.2.3. Others: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.3. End-Use-Industry-Type Analysis

4.3.1. Aerospace & Defense: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.3.2. Marine: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.3.3. Transportation: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.3.4. Building & Construction: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.3.5. Consumer Goods: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.3.6. Electrical & Electronics: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.3.7. Pipes & Tanks: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.3.8. Wind Energy: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.3.9. Others: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.4. Regional Analysis



5. Competitive Analysis

5.1. Market Consolidation Level

5.2. Competitive Landscape

5.3. Market Share Analysis

5.4. Product Portfolio Analysis

5.5. Geographical Presence

5.6. New Product Launches

5.7. Strategic Alliances

5.8. Porter's Five Forces Analysis



6. Strategic Growth Opportunities

6.1. Market Attractiveness Analysis

6.1.1. Market Attractiveness by Textile Type

6.1.2. Market Attractiveness by Material Type

6.1.3. Market Attractiveness by End-Use Industry Type

6.1.4. Market Attractiveness by Region

6.1.5. Market Attractiveness by Country

6.2. Emerging Trends

6.3. Strategic Implications

6.4. Key Success Factors (KSFs)



7. Company Profile of Key Players

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/793hov

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
The global port wine market is expected to grow immensely by 2028 due to increasing demand for premium drink worldwide. Tawny port wine sub-segment is expected to be the most dominant. Port wine market in the Europe region to be highly lucrative

NEW YORK, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Research Dive has added a new report to its offering titled, "Port Wine Market by Type (Tawny, Ruby, and Others), Sales Channel (Offline and Online), and Regional Analysis (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and LAMEA): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2021-2028".

According to the report, the global port wine market is predicted to register a revenue of $1,025,842.5 thousand by 2028, growing at a healthy CAGR of 6.0% during the forecast period 2021-2028.

Dynamics of the Market

Drivers: The leading growth driver for the port wine market is predicted due to the launch of new products and flavors of port wine by major market players. Also, the growing demand for premium drinks is expected to help the market in surging forward.

Opportunities: Improvements in the products that have been already launched in the market are expected to offer immense growth opportunities for the market. Also, the growing awareness regarding health benefits of port wine is also anticipated to expand these growth opportunities.

Restraints: According to market analysts, the high cost associated with port wine and premium products is, however, expected to create hindrances in the growth trajectory of the market.

To get access to the Complete PDF Sample of Port Wine Market Click Here!

Covid-19 Impact on the Market

Since the outbreak of Covid-19 pandemic, strict lockdowns and travel restrictions were put in place by various governments across the world. This negatively impacted several industries and businesses causing disruptions in supply chains and manufacturing processes. The port wine market faced a similar situation during the pandemic. The disruption in steady supply of raw materials i.e., grapes, and hampering of export cycles of manufactured products has severely impacted the market growth.

Segments of the Market

The report has fragmented the port wine market into a few segments based on type, sales channel, and regional analysis.

By type, tawny port wine sub-segment of the port wine market is anticipated to have a dominating market share and register a revenue of $638,105.5 thousand by 2028. The intense nutty and fruity flavor offered by tawny port wine is helping it gain rapid popularity. Along with this, there is a growing trend of gifting tawny port wines on certain special occasions. Both these factors have helped in the growth of this sub-segment.

by 2028. The intense nutty and fruity flavor offered by tawny port wine is helping it gain rapid popularity. Along with this, there is a growing trend of gifting tawny port wines on certain special occasions. Both these factors have helped in the growth of this sub-segment. By sales channel, the offline sub-segment is predicted to garner the highest revenue and register $932,127.8 thousand by 2028. The variety of products and wide-ranging choices that offline stores such as supermarkets, retail shops, hypermarkets, convenience stores, etc. provide, that too at a single place, help the customer in hand picking the products of their liking.

by 2028. The variety of products and wide-ranging choices that offline stores such as supermarkets, retail shops, hypermarkets, convenience stores, etc. provide, that too at a single place, help the customer in hand picking the products of their liking. By regional analysis, port wine market in the Europe region is estimated to be the most dominant and garner a revenue of $470,861.70 thousand by 2028 mainly due to the presence of important wine producing and wine consuming countries like France , Portugal , Spain , etc. Additionally, there is an increasing awareness about the health benefits associated with consumption of port wine in the region, which has also helped the market to grow in this region.

Check out COVID-19 Impact on Port Wine Market. Connect with an Expert Analyst or Schedule a call

Prominent Market Players

Some prominent market players are

Precept Wine

Adriano Ramos Pinto

GrupoSogevinus Fine Wines

Calabria Family Wines

Sula Vineyards

Quevedo

Symington Family Estates

Quinta do Crasto

Davy & Co Limited

The Fladgate Partnership

These players are building several strategies like product development and enhancement, merger and acquisition, partnerships and collaborations to assist the market growth.

For example, in December 2021, Taylor Fladgate, the popular Port house established in 1692, released its 1971 Single Harvest Porto for nationwide release. Taylor Fladgate releases a limited range of very old cask aged single harvest ports each year, which helps in keeping their market share flourishing.

Request Customization of Port Wine Market Report as per your Definition and Format & Avail of Amazing Discount

The report also sums up various crucial facets including financial performance of the port wine market players, SWOT analysis, product portfolio, and the latest strategic developments.

More about Port Wine Market:

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BAODING, China, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On April 18, GWM unveiled its five major brands of HAVAL, TANK, ORA, POER, and WEY at the 20th Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition ("Auto Shanghai 2023"), and released a full range of new energy models.

GWM invited 300 medias and distributors from more than 60 countries and regions to appreciate experience of intelligent NEVs and technologies at GWM booth, during the Auto Shanghai 2023.

GWM Accelerates Electrification, with World Premiere of New Energy Vehicles at Auto Shanghai 2023

At the ceremony, Parker Shi, the Vice President and the Head of international market of GWM, introduced to the media that GWM's transformation to new energy is in full swing, relying on the forest ecosystem. The Auto Shanghai 2023 is an excellent stage for GWM to show the achievements of intelligent to the world with more than 15 new energy vehicles unveiled.

GWM HAVAL unveiled its all-new star product lineup, and the new medium new energy SUV (dubbed "Fierce Dragon MAX in Chinese market) made its world premiere. It is the first model equipped with Hi4 (Hybrid Intelligent 4WD), and adopts a fresh design concept to create a younger and more futuristic product image. GWM Pickup's new 6x6 version of GWM POER was launched together and with the large high-performance hybrid pickup POER Shanhai PHEV/HEV, which is committed to providing the best solutions for new energy pickups.

GWM TANK demonstrated two NEVs, TANK400 PHEV, which celebrated its world debut, and TANK500 PHEV, a medium-to-large luxury off-road new energy SUV to be pre-sold worldwide. In addition, GWM TANK also presented the products' highlights, including off-road new energy technology and product reliability, to the audience in the form of "real scene + virtual interaction", which was recognized by the media.

GWM WEY, focusing on "0 anxiety intelligent electric" category, released the first MPV model WEY Gaoshan PHEV to the world. Meanwhile, it also showcased the six-seat electric SUV Lanshan PHEV, leading the brand to forge ahead to the high-end intelligent NEV market. GWM ORA also released two pure electric models.

GWM also displayed many significant technologies, such as the 3.0T V6 engine + 9HAT+P2 platform, Hi4, TANK platform, and 66 super off-road platform. These state-of-the-art technologies received positive reviews from media outlets and dealers.

"Electrification products and advanced technologies mirror GWM's competitiveness. We look forward to bringing more GWM NEVs to local consumers in the future," said a distributor from Brazil.

GWM has been upholding the idea of "be user-oriented". Based on technological innovation, it accurately understands consumer needs in the new energy era.

Parker Shi noted, "Based on GWM Intelligent NEV's philosophy 'Greener, Higher, and Safer', GWM will rely on the forest ecosystem to accelerate technology iteration and product upgrading and provide global users with more high-quality and intelligent new-energy products."

SOURCE GWM
CHICAGO, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- According to Arizton's latest research report, the hair serum market will grow at a CAGR of 8.62% from 2022-2028.

To Know More, Download the Free Sample Report: https://www.arizton.com/request-sample/3780

Hair Serum Market

BROWSE IN-DEPTH TOC ON THE HAIR SERUM MARKET

117 - Tables

118 - Charts

276  Pages

Several new natural ingredients have been incorporated into hair serums to fulfill the demand for 100% natural hair care products in recent years. The rise in concerns about natural hair care solutions among the adult and elderly populations has accelerated the demand for organic, natural, or herbal hair serums. Additionally, there has been a surge in demand for products that restore hair growth in recent years. Some serums are formulated for scalp care and contain potent actives to treat specific scalp issues.

The rise in the sales of hair serums through various distribution channels and the high demand for hair care products have offered tremendous growth opportunities to vendors in the market. The increasing penetration of e-commerce channels and easy consumer access to hair serums drive market growth. Significant potential factors offer high market growth opportunities in developed and developing countries. The market is expected to witness continuous growth in the upcoming years.

Several players have invested in digital marketing campaigns to promote their hair serum solutions through social media platforms. Such initiatives have accelerated the sales of hair serums and fueled the market growth. Thus, social and digital marketing initiatives through social media platforms will positively impact consumers and sellers due to better customer engagement and opportunities to increase brand awareness and sales.

Hair Serum Market Report Scope

Report Scope Details Market Size (2028) USD 2.20 Billion Market Size (2022) USD 1.34 Billion CAGR (2022-2028) 8.62 % Base Year 2022 Forecast Year 2023-2028 Market Segmentation Ingredients, Gender, Application, Distribution Channels, and Geography Geographics Analysis North America, Europe, APAC, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa Countries Covered China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Germany, France, Spain, the UK, Italy, the US, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa Largest Market APAC Market Dynamics Increasing Targeting Population with Hair Issues

E-commerce Increasing the Access to the Hair Serum Industry

Increasing Expenditure on Hair Care

Looking for More Information? Download the Free Sample Report: https://www.arizton.com/request-sample/3780

APAC Hair Serum Market to Grow at a CAGR of 9.81% During 2022-2028

APAC is a rapidly growing market for hair serums due to the rise in preference for hair care solutions among Gen-Z and the young adult populations, indicating significant revenue growth opportunities for vendors. Several global and regional market players are actively engaged in consumer engagement initiatives. The regional market offers tremendous growth opportunities to the vendors of hair serums due to the presence of a significantly large potential consumer base, the rise in expenditure on hair care and personal care products, and the high penetration of online platforms.

The presence of several market players in APAC is expected to accelerate market growth. L'Oreal Group, Henkel AG & Co. KGaA, Bajaj Consumer Care, and Kao Corporation have high market penetration in the region. These companies pursue several business strategies that help them to expand their market share in the region. Around 32.3% of the overall sales of L'Oreal Group are in the APAC region.

Customize Your Report Now:

If our report does not include the information you are searching for, you may contact us to have a report tailored to your specific business needs https://www.arizton.com/customize-report/3780

Growing Preference for Herbal Hair Serums

Herbal hair care serums are formulated using natural ingredients that have gained massive acceptance among all customer segments worldwide. Factors such as the rise in access to herbal hair serum products and the high consumer awareness about the side effects of products formulated with conventional ingredients have propelled the demand for herbal hair serums. Furthermore, the demand for new herbal hair serums has facilitated the entry of new players with herbal hair serums. Most of these vendors focus on promotional activities to change the market landscape and tap into lucrative growth opportunities.

Focus on Social Media Influence Marketing

In recent years, the proliferation of social media platforms has encouraged more young adults to use hair serums for hair care and styling. The younger generations have become increasingly prone to extreme hair loss issues due to lifestyle changes, a rise in fatigue due to overworking, high intake of junk foods, and the surge in the prevalence of anxiety disorders. Using different hairstyles and coloring methods has contributed to the rise in the prevalence of scalp issues and impacted hair health. Additionally, the promotional activities by the market players, such as celebrity endorsements and social media influencer marketing initiatives, have propelled the demand for hair serums among the younger demographic cohorts. Several players have invested in digital marketing campaigns to promote their hair serum solutions through social media platforms. Such initiatives have accelerated the sales of hair serums and fueled the market growth.

Key Company Profiles

Henkel AG & Co. KGaA

Kao Corporation

L'oreal Group

Unilever

Amka Products

Avon

Anveya

Bajaj Consumer Care

Dabur

DIVI OFFICIALS

GIOVANNI COSMETICS

Honasa Consumer

HERSTYLER

Hims & Hers Health, Inc.

John Paul Mitchell System

Jstor House of Cosmetics

Kaya

Lass Naturals

Marico

Olaplex

Pink Root

PURA D'OR

Revlon

Redken

Wella Company

Market Segmentation

Ingredients

Conventional

Organic

Gender

Women

Men

Application

Treatment

Aesthetic

Distribution Channels

Offline

Online

Geography

APAC

China



Japan



India



South Korea



Australia

Europe

Germany



France



Spain



The UK



Italy

North America

The US



Canada

Latin America

Brazil



Mexico



Argentina

Middle East & Africa

& Turkey



Saudi Arabia



South Africa

Check Out Some of the Top-Selling Research Reports:

Women's Razor Market - Global Outlook & Forecast 2023-2028: The global women's razor market to reach USD 5.28 billion by 2028. The increasing product innovations, the growing development of facial razors, and the impact of the genderless movement are the trends in the global women's razor market.

Hair Wigs and Extensions Market - Global Outlook and Forecast 2023-2028: The global hair wigs and extensions market is expected to surpass USD 19.12 billion by 2028. The US is the leading country globally in the hair wigs and extensions market.

Personal Care Chemicals Market - Global Outlook & Forecast 2021-2026: The global personal care chemicals market to reach USD 16.09 billion by 2026. The APAC region accounted for the major share in the global organic personal care chemical market.

Hair Loss Products Market - Global Outlook and Forecast 2020-2025: The global hair loss products market will reach USD 4 billion by 2025. Shampoos and conditioners are the most widely penetrated hair care products worldwide. The segment accounts for the largest revenue share among male and female consumers across the globe.

Table of Content

1 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

2 RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

3 RESEARCH PROCESS

4 SCOPE & COVERAGE

4.1 MARKET DEFINITION

4.1.1 INCLUSIONS

4.1.2 EXCLUSIONS

4.1.3 MARKET ESTIMATION CAVEATS

4.2 BASE YEAR

4.3 SCOPE OF THE STUDY

4.3.1 MARKET BY INGREDIENTS:

4.3.2 MARKET BY GENDER

4.3.3 MARKET BY APPLICATION

4.3.4 MARKET BY DISTRIBUTION CHANNELS

4.3.5 MARKET SEGMENTATION BY GEOGRAPHY

5 REPORT ASSUMPTIONS & CAVEATS

5.1 KEY CAVEATS

5.2 CURRENCY CONVERSION

5.3 MARKET DERIVATION

6 MARKET AT A GLANCE

7 PREMIUM INSIGHTS

7.1 OVERVIEW

8 INTRODUCTION

8.1 OVERVIEW

9 MARKET OPPORTUNITIES & TRENDS

9.1 NEW PRODUCT LAUNCHES

9.2 GROWING PREFERENCE FOR HERBAL HAIR SERUMS

9.3 FOCUS ON SOCIAL MEDIA INFLUENCE MARKETING

10 MARKET GROWTH ENABLERS

10.1 EXPANDING TARGET POPULATIONS WITH HAIR ISSUES

10.2 HIGH PENETRATION OF E-COMMERCE CHANNELS

10.3 INCREASING EXPENDITURE ON HAIR CARE

11 MARKET RESTRAINTS

11.1 SIDE EFFECTS OF HAIR SERUMS

11.2 AVAILABILITY OF ALTERNATIVES FOR HAIR SERUMS

12 MARKET LANDSCAPE

12.1 MARKET OVERVIEW

12.2 MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

12.3 FIVE FORCES ANALYSIS

12.3.1 THREAT OF NEW ENTRANTS

12.3.2 BARGAINING POWER OF SUPPLIERS

12.3.3 BARGAINING POWER OF BUYERS

12.3.4 THREAT OF SUBSTITUTES

12.3.5 COMPETITIVE RIVALRY

13 INGREDIENTS

13.1 MARKET SNAPSHOT & GROWTH ENGINE

13.2 MARKET OVERVIEW

13.3 CONVENTIONAL

13.3.1 MARKET OVERVIEW

13.3.2 MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

13.3.3 MARKET BY GEOGRAPHY

13.4 ORGANIC

13.4.1 MARKET OVERVIEW

13.4.2 MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

13.4.3 MARKET BY GEOGRAPHY

14 GENDER

14.1 MARKET SNAPSHOT & GROWTH ENGINE

14.2 MARKET OVERVIEW

14.3 FEMALE

14.3.1 MARKET OVERVIEW

14.3.2 MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

14.3.3 MARKET BY GEOGRAPHY

14.4 MALE

14.4.1 MARKET OVERVIEW

14.4.2 MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

14.4.3 MARKET BY GEOGRAPHY

15 APPLICATION

15.1 MARKET SNAPSHOT & GROWTH ENGINE

15.2 MARKET OVERVIEW

15.3 TREATMENT

15.3.1 MARKET OVERVIEW

15.3.2 MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

15.3.3 MARKET BY GEOGRAPHY

15.4 AESTHETIC

15.4.1 MARKET OVERVIEW

15.4.2 MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

15.4.3 MARKET BY GEOGRAPHY

16 DISTRIBUTION CHANNEL

16.1 MARKET SNAPSHOT & GROWTH ENGINE

16.2 MARKET OVERVIEW

16.3 OFFLINE

16.3.1 MARKET OVERVIEW

16.3.2 MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

16.3.3 MARKET BY GEOGRAPHY

16.4 ONLINE

16.4.1 MARKET OVERVIEW

16.4.2 MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

16.4.3 MARKET BY GEOGRAPHY

17 GEOGRAPHY

17.1 MARKET SNAPSHOT & GROWTH ENGINE

17.2 GEOGRAPHIC OVERVIEW

18 APAC

18.1 MARKET OVERVIEW

18.2 MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

18.3 INGREDIENTS

18.3.1 MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

18.4 GENDER

18.4.1 MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

18.5 APPLICATION

18.5.1 MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

18.6 DISTRIBUTION CHANNEL

18.6.1 MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

18.7 KEY COUNTRIES

18.7.1 CHINA: MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

18.7.2 INDIA: MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

18.7.3 JAPAN: MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

18.7.4 SOUTH KOREA: MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

18.7.5 AUSTRALIA: MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

19 EUROPE

19.1 MARKET OVERVIEW

19.2 MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

19.3 INGREDIENTS

19.3.1 MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

19.4 GENDER

19.4.1 MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

19.5 APPLICATION

19.5.1 MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

19.6 DISTRIBUTION CHANNEL

19.6.1 MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

19.7 KEY COUNTRIES

19.7.1 GERMANY: MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

19.7.2 FRANCE: MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

19.7.3 SPAIN: MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

19.7.4 UK: MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

19.7.5 ITALY: MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

20 NORTH AMERICA

20.1 MARKET OVERVIEW

20.2 MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

20.3 INGREDIENTS

20.3.1 MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

20.4 GENDER

20.4.1 MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

20.5 APPLICATION

20.5.1 MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

20.6 DISTRIBUTION CHANNEL

20.6.1 MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

20.7 KEY COUNTRIES

20.7.1 US: MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

20.7.2 CANADA: MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

21 LATIN AMERICA

21.1 MARKET OVERVIEW

21.2 MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

21.3 INGREDIENTS

21.3.1 MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

21.4 GENDER

21.4.1 MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

21.5 APPLICATION

21.5.1 MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

21.6 DISTRIBUTION CHANNEL

21.6.1 MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

21.7 KEY COUNTRIES

21.7.1 BRAZIL: MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

21.7.2 MEXICO: MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

21.7.3 ARGENTINA: MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

22 MIDDLE EAST & AFRICA

22.1 MARKET OVERVIEW

22.2 MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

22.3 INGREDIENTS

22.3.1 MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

22.4 GENDER

22.4.1 MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

22.5 APPLICATION

22.5.1 MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

22.6 DISTRIBUTION CHANNEL

22.6.1 MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

22.7 KEY COUNTRIES

22.7.1 TURKEY: MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

22.7.2 SAUDI ARABIA: MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

22.7.3 SOUTH AFRICA: MARKET SIZE & FORECAST

23 COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

23.1 COMPETITION OVERVIEW

23.2 MARKET SHARE ANALYSIS

23.2.1 HENKEL AG & CO. KGAA

23.2.2 KAO CORPORATION

23.2.3 L'OREAL GROUP

23.2.4 UNILEVER

24 KEY COMPANY PROFILES

24.1 HENKEL AG & CO. KGAA

24.1.1 BUSINESS OVERVIEW

24.1.2 HENKEL AG & CO. KGAA IN GLOBAL HAIR SERUM MARKET

24.1.3 PRODUCT OFFERINGS

24.1.4 KEY STRATEGIES

24.1.5 KEY STRENGTHS

24.1.6 KEY OPPORTUNITIES

24.2 KAO CORPORATION

24.3 L'OREAL GROUPE

24.4 UNILEVER

25 OTHER PROMINENT VENDORS

25.1 AMKA PRODUCTS (PTY) LTD.

25.1.1 BUSINESS OVERVIEW

25.1.2 PRODUCT OFFERINGS

25.2 AVON

25.3 ANVEYA

25.4 BAJAJ CONSUMER CARE

25.5 DABUR

25.6 DIVI OFFICIALS

25.7 GIOVANNI COSMETICS

25.8 HONASA CONSUMER

25.9 HERSTYLER

25.10 HIMS & HERS HEALTH, INC.

25.11 JOHN PAUL MITCHELL SYSTEMS

25.12 JSTOR HOUSE OF COSMETICS

25.13 KAYA

25.14 LASS NATURALS

25.15 MARICO

25.16 OLAPLEX

25.17 PINK ROOT

25.18 PURA D'OR

25.19 REVLON

25.20 REDKEN

25.21 WELLA COMPANY

26 REPORT SUMMARY

26.1 KEY TAKEAWAYS

26.2 STRATEGIC RECOMMENDATIONS

27 QUANTITATIVE SUMMARY

27.1 MARKET BY GEOGRAPHY

27.2 INGREDIENT: MARKET BY GEOGRAPHY

27.3 GENDER: MARKET BY GEOGRAPHY

27.4 APPLICATION: MARKET BY GEOGRAPHY

27.5 DISTRIBUTION CHANNEL: MARKET BY GEOGRAPHY

27.6 INGREDIENTS: MARKET BY GEOGRAPHY

27.6.1 CONVENTIONAL INGREDIENTS: MARKET BY GEOGRAPHY

27.6.2 ORGANIC INGREDIENTS: MARKET BY GEOGRAPHY

27.7 GENDER: MARKET BY GEOGRAPHY

27.7.1 FEMALE SEGMENT: MARKET BY GEOGRAPHY

27.7.2 MALE SEGMENT: MARKET BY GEOGRAPHY

27.8 APPLICATION: MARKET BY GEOGRAPHY

27.8.1 TREATMENT APPLICATIONS: MARKET BY GEOGRAPHY

27.8.2 AESTHETIC APPLICATIONS: MARKET BY GEOGRAPHY

27.9 DISTRIBUTION CHANNEL: MARKET BY GEOGRAPHY

27.9.1 OFFLINE DISTRIBUTION CHANNEL: MARKET BY GEOGRAPHY

27.9.2 ONLINE DISTRIBUTION CHANNEL: MARKET BY GEOGRAPHY

28 APPENDIX

28.1 ABBREVIATIONS

About Us:

Arizton Advisory and Intelligence is an innovative and quality-driven firm that offers cutting-edge research solutions to clients worldwide. We excel in providing comprehensive market intelligence reports and advisory and consulting services.

We offer comprehensive market research reports on consumer goods & retail technology, automotive and mobility, smart tech, healthcare, life sciences, industrial machinery, chemicals, materials, I.T. and media, logistics, and packaging. These reports contain detailed industry analysis, market size, share, growth drivers, and trend forecasts.

Arizton comprises a team of exuberant and well-experienced analysts who have mastered generating incisive reports. Our specialist analysts possess exemplary skills in market research. We train our team in advanced research practices, techniques, and ethics to outperform in fabricating impregnable research reports.

Contact Us

Call: +1-312-235-2040

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Contact Us: https://www.arizton.com/contact-us

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SOURCE Arizton Advisory & Intelligence
AUSTIN, Texas, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Rehabilitation robotics company Harmonic Bionics announced today that the company has registered their flagship exoskeleton Harmony SHR with the FDA as a Class II 510(k)-exempt device. The company will be exhibiting the Harmony SHR system at the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) Inspire 2023 Annual Conference taking place this week in Kansas City, MO.

Harmony SHR is an upper extremity robotic rehabilitation system that works with a patients scapulohumeral rhythm (SHR) to enable natural, comprehensive therapy for both arms. As an upper extremity exercise device, Harmony SHR may assist in the treatment of upper body movement impairments, including: neurological injury, neuromuscular disease, musculoskeletal disease, musculoskeletal rehabilitation post-procedure (rotator cuff tear, etc.), and upper limb prosthetic/transplant rehab.

The Harmony SHR Robotic Rehabilitation System works with a patient's scapulohumeral rhythm (SHR) to enable natural, comprehensive therapy for both arms. As an upper extremity exercise device, Harmony may assist in the treatment of upper body movement impairments including neurological injury (such as stroke), neuromuscular disease/disorder, musculoskeletal disease, post-procedure musculoskeletal rehabilitation, and upper limb prosthetic or transplant rehabilitation.

"Our team has worked so hard to reach this milestone, but we are especially grateful to the therapists and clinicians we have worked with to ensure our Harmony SHR system is an effective tool for providers and their patients," said Harmonic Bionics CEO Christopher Prentice. "In addition to assisting in recovery, we know rehab robotics and technology is one way to address workforce challenges that are plaguing the healthcare industry and we believe Harmony can be a part of that solution."

Harmonic Bionics will be demonstrating the Harmony SHR system later this week in booth 126 at AOTA Inspire, the largest occupational therapy conference in the country. The company will also host a special seminar entitled "What is Bilateral Sync Therapy? Using Advanced Technology to Promote Neuroplasticity" presented by Harmonic Bionics' Clinical Education & Training Specialist on Friday, April 21 at 1:00 pm in Hall C, Theatre 2. Attendees will receive .75 contact hour (.75 NBCOT PDU).

Last month, Harmonic Bionics fulfilled a purchase order for Auburn University and installed a Harmony SHR system at the Wearable and Bio-Robotics Laboratory (WeBR Lab) led by Dr. Chad Rose, Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering. For more information on Harmonic Bionics and Harmony SHR, please visit www.harmonicbionics.com.

About Harmonic Bionics, Inc.

Harmonic Bionics, led by a highly talented and successful leadership team with vast medical device experience, is a commercial-stage robotics and digital health company that aims to unlock human functional capabilities through robotics. Our flagship product, Harmony SHR, is a bilateral upper extremity exoskeleton that works with a patient's scapulohumeral rhythm (SHR) to enable natural, comprehensive arm and shoulder therapy for those living with neurological and musculoskeletal movement impairments.

SOURCE Harmonic Bionics
Agencies using HawkSoft can optimize the renewal process, increase customer satisfaction, and improve agency profitability with ValChoice.

CANBY, Ore., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- HawkSoft welcomes ValChoice as a new API Partner. HawkSoft, an insurance technology developer based in Oregon, enjoys a strong following among independent insurance agencies rooted on growing their services in line with feedback from their customers. ValChoice emerged as a natural ally and is a welcome addition to HawkSoft's API Partner program. ValChoice is a pioneer in going beyond financial information to evaluate and grade the quality of insurance carriers in the United States.

Use this QR code to access ValChoice's Re-marketing and Book Roll Calculator.

Leveraging HawkSoft's two-way Partner API, ValChoice significantly improves agency profitability by seamlessly improving existing processes by 80%. The ValChoice data analytics engine analyzes millions of data points to produce ratings and evaluations of insurance carriers. Normal financial evaluations examine only financial strength, stopping short of the more important aspects such as the quality of claims handling and customer service. Using the ValChoice automated system, agencies can quickly and easily realize the full benefit of ValChoice with at most two hours of setup time.

"Insurance is like wine. It's expensive, complicated, and consumers don't know how good it is until it's too late to return it," said Dan Karr, founder and CEO of ValChoice. "ValChoice changes that by letting consumers know what to expect from insurance companies for both claims handling and service, and most consumers will pay a premium for a better offering."

"Independent agents understand that insurance is not a commodity, yet they so often let price be the dominant factor when engaging with people. ValChoice equips agents to paint a more comprehensive picture of the carriers they recommend to protect their assets and lives on those rainy days," says Rushang Shah, VP of Marketing at HawkSoft. "ValChoice empowers agents to educate insureds to be more aware of the quality of providers that are involved in helping manage risk."

HawkSoft and ValChoice conducted field tests of integration that demonstrated promising results for real agencies. Kelly Endicott, owner at K&M Insurance Agency in Ohio, participated in the field test and reports that, "A/B testing shows we have an 80% reduction in policyholders requesting to be re-marketed when the ValChoice automated system sends ratings prior to renewal."

Two-way API integration between HawkSoft and ValChoice is available today. Mutual customers can enable integration in HawkSoft's Marketplace. To see how much your agency can increase profits by utilizing ValChoice, see ValChoice's Re-Marketing and Book Roll Calculator here: https://agent.valchoice.com/calc.

About HawkSoft

Since 1995, HawkSoft is a leader in management systems for independent insurance agencies that want effective workflows and a delightful experience for staff and policyholders. Created by independent agents, HawkSoft continues to evolve as a cutting-edge system that powers thousands of agencies. HawkSoft offers the following promise to insurance agents: your investment in HawkSoft will pay for itself in the first year. Learn more about HawkSoft's unique father-and-son story at www.hawksoft.com/story.

About ValChoice

ValChoice is the only company to provide consumers, insurance companies, agents and brokers with information on which home and auto insurance companies offer the best protection (claims handling) and service. The company's analytics platform analyzes millions of high-quality data points and delivers the results in an easy-to-use service that Forbes Magazine describes as "Carfax for insurance." Using ValChoice, consumers are finally able to shop for insurance based on value rather than making decisions blindly based on price or advertising campaigns. ValChoice was established after its founder was involved in a serious accident and multiple insurance companies refused to pay his medical bills. He vowed to help others avoid the same outcome. Learn more here https://www.valchoice.com/about-valchoice/.

Rushang Shah

HawkSoft

866-884-4680

[email protected]

Dan Karr

ValChoice

802-468-7510

[email protected]

SOURCE HawkSoft
LONDON and ROAD TOWN, British Virgin Islands, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Hidden Road, the global credit network for institutions, announced today that it has recently completed SOC 2 Type 1 certification, an external audit on Hidden Road's handling of sensitive information, and Cyber Essentials certification, an accreditation for cybersecurity from the Government of the United Kingdom.

SOC 2 Type 1 certification means that Hidden Road has ensured that their clients' data remains private and that it is managed in the most secure way possible, as outlined by internationally-recognized standards set by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). The firm is currently working towards SOC 2 Type 2 certification.

The UK's Cyber Essentials certification signifies that Hidden Road is taking careful measures to prevent cyber attacks and to minimize other specific potential vulnerabilities, on all possible fronts.

"From the beginning, Hidden Road has been deeply committed to the security of the firm's and clients' data," said Laine Litman, President of Hidden Road. "Our management, technology, compliance and client teams work continuously on this front, and we're excited to be able to report we have achieved these high standards of securely managing sensitive information and protecting against cyber attacks."

Hidden Road's quantitatively-driven platform provides real-time risk management and seamless credit across venues, products and asset classes. The company's products include prime brokerage, clearing and financing for traditional and digital assets.

About Hidden Road

Hidden Road Partners is the global credit network for institutions, enabling seamless access to traditional and digital markets. Conflict-free and built on a modern technology stack, Hidden Road removes complexity and cost in prime brokerage, clearing and financing. For more information, please email [email protected].

Media Contact

Michael Kingsley

Forefront Communications

[email protected]

914-522-9471

SOURCE Hidden Road
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan Jeyhun Bayramov has held a telephone conversation with Secretary General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Hussein Brahim Taha, Trend reports citing Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry.

The parties expressed their best wishes and congratulations on the occasion of the upcoming Ramadan holiday and wished peace and prosperity to the entire Islamic world.

During the conversation, the sides exchanged views on the current opportunities for cooperation between Azerbaijan and the OIC, issues on the agenda and prospects for the future.

Minister Bayramov spoke about the useful and effective cooperation of Azerbaijan with the OIC and noted that this cooperation is successfully continuing both within the bilateral framework and within international organizations.

The parties touched upon the results of the 49th session of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers, held in Mauritania in March this year, the decisions taken and further steps.

During the conversation, Bayramov spoke about the efforts made by Azerbaijan to eliminate the consequences of the former conflict, as well as to strengthen peace and security in the region, the steps taken on the peace agenda. The minister also spoke about the provocations of Armenia, which aggravated the situation.

It was noted with gratitude that the OIC traditionally supports the fair position of Azerbaijan, based on international law, territorial integrity and sovereignty.

Also, Minister Bayramov, noting that the Azerbaijani Government is carrying out a large-scale restoration work on the territories liberated from occupation, invited representatives of friendly and fraternal countries within the organization to participate in these projects.

During the telephone conversation, the parties exchanged views on other issues of mutual interest.
RICHMOND, Va., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Hilb Group announced today that it has acquired a Connecticut-based book of commercial and personal lines property and casualty (P&C) business in its New England region of operations. The new business will be serviced through Connecticut-based Gerardi Insurance, and producer Fred Touchette will join the company. The transaction became effective April 1, 2023.

About Hilb Group: The Hilb Group is a leading property and casualty and employee benefits insurance brokerage and advisory firm headquartered in Richmond, Virginia. Hilb Group is a portfolio company of The Carlyle Group, a global investment firm. Hilb Group seeks to grow through strategic acquisitions and by leveraging its resources and expertise to drive organic growth in its acquired agencies. The company has completed more than 150 acquisitions with over 125 offices in 27 states. Hilb Group is rated as one of the Fastest Growing Brokers by Business Insurance, a Top P/C Agency by Insurance Journal, and one of America's Fastest Growing Private Companies in the Inc. 5000. For more information on Hilb Group's growth as well as career opportunities, please visit our website at http://hilbgroup.com.

Media Contact:

Peter Lobred

804.548.4629

[email protected]

M&A Contact:

Ryan Havermann

804.414.6508

[email protected]

SOURCE The Hilb Group, LLC
Bids Due May 2, 2023, Auction to Be Held May 4, 2023

New York, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Hilco Streambank is offering for sale the assets of Toadfish, LLC. Toadfish is a lifestyle brand featuring cookware, drinkware, fishing equipment and apparel tailored for coastal living. The company's sales more than quadrupled between 2019 and 2021 as consumers embraced outdoor activities such as fishing, leading to peak sales of over $21 million in 2021.

Available assets include the brand's intellectual property, including trademarks, domain names and social media accounts with more than 225,000 followers across all platforms, customer files for more than 980,000 customers, and approximately $1.6 million of inventory at cost.

Bids are due on or before May 2, 2023, at 12:00 p.m. ET, and an auction will be conducted on May 4, 2023, at 12:00 p.m. ET.

Hilco Streambank Senior Vice President Richelle Kalnit remarked, "Toadfish is a brand that embodies the coastal outdoor ethos and resonates deeply with its loyal customers. The brand has a diversified distribution network, generating revenue across e-commerce through the Toadfish.com e-commerce site and Amazon, as well as through valuable wholesale partners including big box retailers and specialty shops." Kalnit continued, "The brand excels in categories which are particularly appealing to the Amazon shopper, evidenced by the 4+ stars on Amazon given to numerous products, many of which have thousands of reviews."

Interested parties should click here for additional information or contact Hilco Streambank directly.

The assets are being offered pursuant to Article 9 of the Uniform Commercial Code on behalf of the secured lender. The assets will be sold free and clear of the secured lender's lien and any subordinate security interests in the assets. The assets are being sold without recourse to the seller and its attorneys, agents, or representatives. The seller does not claim title to the assets being sold hereunder and disclaims any warranty of title, possession, and the like in the sale. The sale is subject to definitive documentation.

About Hilco Streambank: Hilco Streambank is a market-leading advisory firm specializing in intellectual property disposition and valuation. Having completed numerous transactions, including sales in publicly reported transactions, private transactions, and online sales through IPv4.Global, Hilco Streambank has established itself as the premier intermediary in the consumer brand, internet, and telecom communities. Hilco Streambank is part of Northbrook, Illinois-based Hilco Global, the world's leading authority on maximizing the value of business assets by delivering valuation, monetization, and advisory solutions to an international marketplace. Hilco Global operates more than twenty specialized business units offering services that include asset valuation and appraisal, retail and industrial inventory acquisition and disposition, real estate, and strategic capital equity investments.

SOURCE Hilco Streambank
DUBAI, UAE, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Gaining ISO 19650 certification from LRQA demonstrates that Hill International's building information modelling system follows a robust and globally recognised approach, focusing on continuous improvement for managing risk, to meet the needs and expectations of its customers and stakeholders.

The certification to ISO 19650 would constitute a formal recognition of their BIM capabilities and would provide them with a competitive edge, allowing to improve the bid-hit rates, enhance capabilities to meet client expectations and expand business in the region and beyond. Hill International is the first PMC Company to achieve ISO Certification Part 3 (Asset Operation) in the Middle East.

Saif Alobaidi, General Manager Middle East & Egypt at LRQA said:

"LRQA is delighted to be the trusted partner of choice for Hill International and we would like to congratulate Hill International on their achievement of being the first pure PMC firm with a regional office based in the Middle East to accomplish multi-site ISO certification for Asset Delivery (ISO 19650 Part 2) and Asset Operation (ISO 19650 Part 3) for eight of its branches. This demonstrates Hill International continues improvement mindset in providing best practice and gives its clients confidence that Hill International are working to the highest standards."

Amine Tayeg, Regional QMS Director at Hill International, said:

"LRQA was among three tier-1 global consultants that we consulted with during the selection of the certification company for our BIM certification. What differentiated LRQA was the ability to efficiently mobilize resources (subject matter experts) from different geographical locations (UAE, Singapore, UK) to explain the process and the possibilities that we have as PMC to achieve the BIM certification. This combined with timely responses to our queries gave us confidence that LRQA will be able to support our global operations during the initial certification process and throughout the follow-up certification activities."

The two companies plan to continue working together to ensure consistency and quality across Hill International's management systems, re-enforced by certification through LRQA.

About Hill International

Hill International, with more than 3,200 professionals in over 100 offices worldwide, provides program management, project management, construction management, project management oversight, advisory, dispute resolution, facilities management, and other consulting services to clients in a variety of market sectors. Engineering News-Record magazine recently ranked Hill as one of the largest construction management firms in the United States.

Hill is a proud member of the Global Infrastructure Solutions, Inc. (GISI) family of companies. Hill GISI M&A was concluded at the end of last year and will support Hill's plans to grow into new markets and expand our capabilities and services, invest in new tools and technologies, and access a network of industry contacts, and global experience that complements Hill's business.

For more information, visit https://www.hillintl.com

About LRQA

LRQA, formerly part of Lloyd's Register, is a leading global assurance provider bringing together expertise in brand assurance, certification, cybersecurity, inspection, and training  to help its customers negotiate a rapidly changing world. Operating in more than 120 countries and recognised by over 30 accreditation bodies worldwide, LRQA covers almost every sector, helping customers around the world to manage risk.

Learn more about LRQA's Building Information Modelling (BIM) services: https://www.lrqa.com/en-ae/construction-industry/building-information-modelling-bim/

For more information, please contact:

Hasan Surve

Position: Area Marketing Manager, SAMEA

[email protected]

+971-552504482

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1994890/3869267/LRQA_Logo.jpg

SOURCE LRQA
Announcement follows combination with Waller Lansden Dortch & Davis

MIAMI and NASHVILLE, Tenn., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Holland & Knight announced the expansion of the firm's Healthcare & Life Sciences Industry Group, a cross-disciplinary team of more than 400 experienced attorneys covering virtually every segment of the healthcare industry. Following the firm's March 1 combination with Waller Lansden Dortch & Davis, Holland & Knight now boasts the largest healthcare law practice in the United States, according to data submitted to Modern Healthcare. Watch Video Announcement.

The combined firm has several hundred attorneys who spend the majority of their time working on healthcare matters ranging from business, regulatory compliance and real estate to litigation, government enforcement and public policy issues.

"The Holland & Knight and Waller combination is a game-changer for healthcare companies, investors and anyone involved in the industry," said Brent Hill, chair of the firm's newly created Healthcare Section. "We're seeing a lot of excitement among our clients with respect to our combined capabilities and the new ways we can help them achieve their objectives."

For more than 50 years, service to the healthcare industry was the cornerstone of Waller's legal practice. Both Waller and Holland & Knight have earned reputations as go-to firms for clients in the healthcare industry, especially for providers.

"There are certainly many offerings that Waller's legacy clients gain from this combination, but most importantly, we now offer several practices that we did not have previously, including FDA regulatory, federal lobbying, antitrust and data security," added Mr. Hill.

"The team's expansion provides our clients with enormous depth in multiple key areas, but especially in healthcare private equity, M&A and additional experience in healthcare services," said Jeffrey Mittleman, co-leader of Holland & Knight's Healthcare Industry Group. "Holland & Knight is now a leading national healthcare law firm, but what's remarkable is how similar the two firms are in terms of culture and commitment to client service. We're already seeing tremendous teamwork among attorneys who bring different skills and perspectives to solving complex challenges."

The firm is recognized by third parties for its healthcare representation, including recognition as one of the nation's top law firms in Chambers USA's list of the nation's elite healthcare law firms; ranking by Modern Healthcare for more than 15 years in its listing of the nation's largest healthcare law firms; and ranking by the American Bar Association's Health Law Section of the largest healthcare practices in the Southeast, Northeast and Washington, D.C.

The firm's Healthcare Industry Group has a particular focus on identified sectors in the market, including but not limited to, hospitals and health systems, post-acute care, ambulatory surgery centers, outpatient care, private equity, physician practice management, behavioral health, digital health, managed care, pharmacies and life sciences.

About Holland & Knight LLP: Holland & Knight is a global law firm with approximately 2,000 lawyers and other professionals in 35 offices worldwide. The firm's lawyers and advisors provide representation in litigation, corporate and finance, real estate and governmental matters. Interdisciplinary practice groups and industry-based teams provide clients with efficient access to attorneys throughout the firm. www.hklaw.com

SOURCE Holland & Knight LLP
Princess Margriet of the Netherlands joined festivities inside company's historic headquarters; anniversary parties across the Holland America Line fleet and aboard Rotterdam VII in Rotterdam and Zuiderdam in Amsterdam

ROTTERDAM, Netherlands, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Holland America Line's flagship Rotterdam arrived at the Port of Rotterdam, the Netherlands, this morning following a 150th Anniversary crossing that departed Fort Lauderdale, Florida, April 3. The ship's arrival on the exact date of Holland America Line's 150th birthday kicked off all-day celebrations that included royalty, local dignitaries, port officials and guests who commemorated the special day.

Princess Margriet joined festivities at historic headquarters; anniversary parties across the Holland America Line Fleet Tweet this Zuiderdam arrives Amsterdam Rotterdam arrives Rotterdam on April 18 Right to Left: Princess Margriet of the Netherlands, Roel Dusseldorp (GM of Hotel New York), and Holland America Line President Gus Antorcha

Holland America Line President Gus Antorcha was joined by Her Royal Highness Princess Margriet of the Netherlands, Rotterdam Mayor Ahmed Aboutaleb and descendants of Holland America Line's original founders for a celebration at Hotel New York, home to Holland America Line's original headquarters from 1901 to 1977.

"The celebration of 150 years is about more than our history, it's about how we are building on the legacy of a great brand to make it relevant for the next 150 years," said Antorcha. "From those first early days, we built our reputation on the care we provided to every person who stepped on board. And through the decades, whether that person was an immigrant, a titan of industry, a soldier or a vacationer, each of them was treated as though they were a guest in our own home. It is still a hallmark of our brand.

"The fabric of history is woven from the threads of millions of stories, and at the heart of each of those stories is a person," Antorcha continued. "I am certain that there are many chapters still to be written. And I hope that decades from now, those who come after us will gather on this very spot at Hotel New York to share them."

From the ship's arrival through an overnight stay, memorable moments marked the milestone. Inside a room that once collected luggage for immigrants in the early 1900s, Holland America Line presented a commemorative 150th Anniversary bell to be permanently displayed at Hotel New York. Her Royal Highness Princess Margriet poured champagne over the bell, which is a Holland America Line tradition usually reserved for a new ship launch.

Holland America Line worked closely with PostNL, the postal office of the Netherlands, to design a collectable 150th Anniversary gold-foil stamp that was revealed by Bob van Ierland, director of mail, Netherlands, at the ceremony. The stamp, designed by Frank Janse, features an illustration of two iconic ships from the company's long history: Rotterdam VII, Holland America Line's newest ship, and Rotterdam I, its first ship. The limited-edition stamp is available for purchase throughout the Netherlands.

In addition, members of one of Holland America Line's founding families presented an original company share that will be kept as part of a special collection in the Rotterdam City Archives. Attendees at the Hotel New York ceremony included Holland America Line team members and more than 60 of the line's top Mariners, guests who have sailed at least 1,400 days on the line's ships.

Following a Gala dinner on board Rotterdam VII, Antorcha invited the ship's guests to a party around the Lido Pool where he toasted to Holland America Line's anniversary alongside ship's Captain Bas van Dreumel and Mai Elmar, executive director of Cruise Port Rotterdam and the ship's madrina.

"To the builders, architects, visionaries and explorers who have brought us to today. To our generations of crew who have seen our guests from shore to shore. And most importantly, to all of the passengers and guests who have trusted us along the way. Cheers to 150 years and many more to come," toasted Antorcha.

As a finale to the evening's events, the city of Rotterdam's Erasmus Bridge was illuminated with a special light display honoring Holland America Line's 150th Anniversary. Following the lighting of the bridge, Antorcha made his way to Amsterdam, the Netherlands, and joined Zuiderdam and Grand World Voyage guests around the Lido Pool to commemorate Holland America Line's birthday. The additional nine ships in Holland America Line's fleet also held anniversary parties on board for guests.

For more information about Holland America Line, consult a travel advisor, call 1-877-SAIL HAL (877-724-5425) or visit hollandamerica.com.

Editors Note: Photos are available at https://www.cruiseimagelibrary.com/c/nbc6wjbf.

Find Holland America Line on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and the Holland America Blog. You can also access all social media outlets via the home page at hollandamerica.com.

About Holland America Line

Holland America Line, part of Carnival Corporation and plc (NYSE/LSE:CCL andNYSE: CUK), has been exploring the world for 150 years with expertly crafted itineraries, extraordinary service and genuine connections to each destination. Offering an ideal mid-sized ship experience, its fleet visits nearly 400 ports in 114 countries around the world and has shared the thrill of Alaska for 75 years  longer than any other cruise line. Holland America Line's 11 vessels feature a diverse range of enriching activities and amenities focused on destination immersion and personalized travel. The best live music at sea fills each evening at Music Walk, and dining venues feature exclusive selections from a Culinary Council of world-famous chefs.

CONTACT: Bill Zucker, Erik Elvejord PHONE: 800-637-5029, 206-626-9890 EMAIL: [email protected]

SOURCE Holland America Line
SHANGHAI and CLINTON, N.J., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- HuidaGene Therapeutics (; HuidaGene), a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing CRISPR-based programmable genomic medicine, announces that the Center for Drug Evaluation (CDE) of China National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) has approved its investigational new drug (IND) application for the planned multi-regional, multi-national clinical trial of HG004 for the treatment of patients suffering from RPE65-associated inherited retinal dystrophies, a group of genetic diseases caused by the mutations in RPE65 gene affecting the retina and passed on to the children. Previously, the company announced HG004 has granted orphan drug designation in Mar-2023 (https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/huidagene-receives-orphan-drug-designation-for-gene-therapy-of-blindness-301787815.html) and its multi-national IND has also been cleared in Jan-2023 by the US FDA (https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/huidagene-therapeutics-announces-ind-active-for-the-multinational-trial-of-hg004-to-treat-inherited-blindness-301732098.html).

"We are pleased that the China CDE has also granted permission to proceed with this first multi-regional, multi-center gene therapy master protocol in China, which is an important milestone to the company," said Xuan Yao, Ph.D., Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of HuidaGene. "The company has only founded in 4 years, and we are thrilled to receive the IND clearance from both China and US. I'd like to thank our team for their continuous efforts and the support from WuXi Advanced Therapies and the regulatory authorities. I look forward to advancing the clinical development of HG004 and continuing the development of more innovative gene therapy products with clinically meaningful benefits to patients and families worldwide as soon as possible."

"The clearance by both the China NMPA and US FDA to initiate the first China multi-regional, multi-national, multi-center ocular gene therapy master protocol of HG004 is illustrative to the innovative approach to drug discovery of its Rpe65 gene knockout murine disease model using the CRISPR genome-editing system and global clinical development of the HuidaGene team. The goal of the HG004 program is to develop a one-time, non-AAV2 gene replacement therapy to restore, treat, and prevent blindness of both children and adults with severe visual impairment or blindness due to RPE65-associated retinopathies globally," stated Alvin Luk, Ph.D., Scientific Advisory Board Member of HuidaGene. "The team will deeply and comprehensively investigate the safety, tolerability, efficacy, and clinical durability of HG004 in global clinical development, with the aim of bringing novel modalities with safer and better clinical outcomes to patients."

"Investigational HG004 is a novel ophthalmic injection that is being developed to treat RPE65 retinopathies. Our preclinical data supported our multi-national trial with a starting effective dose (about 25-fold lower vector doses) far below the approved AAV2-hRPE65 gene therapy product with less volume need to be injected into the retina to reduce the risk of AAV vector-associated immunogenicity or ocular adverse events in humans. We already saw a substantial restoration of vision from our adult and pediatric patients dosed with HG004 in our investigator-initiated trial (IIT) at Xinhua Hospital in Shanghai, China," said Dr. Xuan Yao.

About Multi-Regional, Multi-National Clinical Trial of HG004

HG004 will be evaluated in a multiregional, multinational, multicenter, multiple-cohort, dose-finding study of adult and pediatric subjects with RPE65 retinopathies under one master protocol in different countries. The purposes of the study are to evaluate the safety, tolerability, efficacy, and long-term clinical durability of a single injection of HG004 for up to 52 weeks. Primary endpoints include adverse events, certain laboratory measures, and ophthalmic examinations. The study will also assess visual function via a multiluminance mobility test (MLMT), where subjects will navigate a mobility course under various light levels. After completing the primary study period, subjects will continue to be assessed in a long-term follow-up study of HG004.

About RPE65 Mutation-Associated Inherited Retinal Dystrophies

Inherited retinal dystrophies (IRDs) are a group of rare blinding conditions caused by mutations in any 1 of more than 250 genes. Leber's congenital amaurosis (LCA), severe early childhood-onset retinal dystrophy (SECORD), early-onset severe retinal dystrophy (EOSRD), and retinitis pigmentosa (RP), which may all be grouped under the heading of RPE65 mutation-associated inherited retinal dystrophies, are considered to represent a phenotypic continuum of the same disease. The RPE65 mutation-associated inherited retinal dystrophies with a typical onset between birth and five years of age exhibit several common clinical findings, chiefly night blindness (light staring with profound nyctalopia and nystagmus), progressive loss of visual fields, and loss of central vision. The percentage of patients (with biallelic RPE65 mutations) meeting the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria for blindness increased with age and reached 100% after the age of 40 years. Given the often severe and early visual loss associated with RPE65 inherited retinal dystrophies, other areas of development, including speech, social skills, and behavior, may also be delayed.

About HuidaGene -

HuidaGene Therapeutics () is a global clinical-stage biotechnology company focusing on discovering, engineering, and developing CRISPR-based genetic medicine to rewrite the future of genomic medicine. Based in Shanghai and New Jersey, HuidaGene is committed to addressing patients' needs globally with various preclinical therapeutic programs covering ophthalmology, otology, myology, and neurology. We are currently advancing clinical programs in RPE65 mutation-associated inherited retinal dystrophies and our preclinical pipeline, including programs in neovascular age-related macular degeneration, retinitis pigmentosa, hereditary hearing loss, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and MECP2 duplication syndrome. Company's CRISPR-based therapeutics offer the potential to cure patients with life-threatening conditions by repairing the cause of their disease. HuidaGene is committed to transforming the future of genome-editing medicine.

For more information, please visit http://www.huidagene.com

or follow us on LinkedIn at http://www.linkedin.com/company/huidagene

SOURCE HuidaGene Therapeutics
MOUNT AIRY, Md., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Hunt Demarest, CPA/ABV of Paar Melis and Associates (a specialized accounting and tax firm for automotive repair shops) educates shop owners to make better financial decisions, resulting in greater success for them, and their shops. Hunt released a blog post with information about his monthly livestream "LIVE with Hunt," where he answers live questions about the financial and business side of owning an automotive shop from anyone who joins the group "your perfect shop."

Hunt Demarest with Paar Melis and Associates, Expert Accounting & Tax Services Specializing in Automotive Repair Shops Hunt Demarest with Paar Melis and Associates, Expert Accounting & Tax Services Specializing in Automotive Repair Shops

"To answer your tax, accounting, business management, bookkeeping and general questions about automotive repair industry financials," Hunt said. "This helps not only Paar Melis' clients but can assist shop owners in asking the right questions of their own people, especially if their financial managers, bookkeepers, or accountants are not industry specific. The more you know, the better you can help your business perform," he added.

"What do I have to do to join the next one?"

Go to Facebook.

Join the group "'Your Perfect Shop: https://www.facebook.com/groups/456843564896104'"

Hunt Demarest of Paar Melis and Associates, is qualified to speak on best practices and strategies because Paar Melis and Associates have been providing unparalleled tax and accounting services to the automotive repair industry since 1992. They have over 600 auto repair shop clients. They are knowledgeable about specific tax laws that pertain to repair shops as well as most POS/SMS systems they use. That allows them to help shop owners really understand their financials so they can work together to improve the shop's profitability. Since the automotive repair industry is their focus, they can provide industry specific insight that other accountants cannot provide. According to a current client, Brian Moak of "Heart Certified Auto Care" in Chicago, IL, "Paar Melis has been able to really help us master our data at a level that I have not yet been able to do with any other provider that I've worked with. Part of the big excitement around working with Paar Melis is that that data is why we think we'll be able to catapult past our previous record year I've never had the type of partnership that I'm feeling from an accountant before."

About Paar Melis and Associates

Paar Melis and Associates was founded by Jason Paar and Reed Melis who have a wealth of experience providing expert accounting and tax service to automotive repair businesses since 1992. Services provided by Paar Melis include Accounting Services, Tax Returns, Bookkeeping, Valuations, Payroll, Succession Planning, QuickBooks Training, cleanup and tailoring. Visit www.PaarMelis.com for more information.

About Business By The Numbers Podcast

On the Business by the Numbers Podcast, every week, Hunt Demarest discusses the financial side of owning an auto repair shop, helping shop owners nationwide develop a core understanding of their shop's financials. Visit https://paarmelis.com/business-by-the-numbers

Contact:

[email protected] or 443 370 9447

Hunt Demarest, CPA/ABV of Paar Melis and Associates;

SOURCE Paar Melis and Associates
BONITA SPRINGS, Fla., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Are you a homeowner in the Southwest FL area that is still struggling with the ramifications of hurricane Ian; including denied insurance claims, contractors not showing up, and unfinished roofs going into the 2023 Hurricane Season? With new laws favoring the insurance companies it may seem like there are little to no options left.

Is your property still damaged by hurricane Ian? Know your options!

Renegade Roofing in collaboration with ClaimPay Funding is hosting a town hall event on April 20th, 2023, for Southwest Florida homeowners, who have experienced damage from Hurricane Ian. The event will bring together an expert panel of roofers, funding and legal professionals, insurance adjusters, and government staff to provide information on hidden water damage, insurance claims, vetting contractors, legal options, and changes to insurance law.

These issues and more will be addressed during this important town hall event.

Representatives from Senator Rick Scott's office, Senator Marco Rubio's office, and Congressman Byron Donald's office will be there to offer community support and to answer questions.

This is an important opportunity for homeowners to get the guidance and help they need during this difficult time. Attendees will receive invaluable advice on how to best protect and repair their homes before the 2023 Hurricane season, as well as how to maximize their insurance settlement.

ClaimPay is more than just a trusted funding partner for the restoration community; it's a beacon of hope for those in need of cash flow solutions to help rebuild their lives. With their innovative funding solutions, they're empowering individuals and businesses to take the first step towards a brighter future.

More information about the event can be found at

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/hurricane-ian-town-hall-tickets-608896805737

Contact Paul Clark from Renegade Roofing 239-380-1106 or Katherine Kogan from ClaimPay Funding 561-485-3883 for more information and interviews.

Schedule:

April 20th, 2023

5:00 - 6:15 pm - Meet individually with experts and staff members

6:15 - 7:30 pm - Panel discussion where experts will provide key information and advice to help you protect your home and rights.

Light refreshments will be served as well as a cash bar

Bonita Springs-Estero Elks Lodge

3231 Coconut Rd, Estero, FL, United States, Florida

SOURCE ClaimPay Funding
Fanny M. Cornejo Awarded $50,000 to Advance Career in Conservation

INDIANAPOLIS, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Officials from the Indianapolis Prize, the world's leading award for animal conservation, today named Peruvian primatologist and anthropologist Fanny M. Cornejo the 2023 Winner of the Inaugural Emerging Conservationist Award. The biennial Award recognizes and supports conservationists under 40 years of age with the talent and drive to make a significant impact on saving an animal species or group of species.

Over the past 15 years, Cornejo has devoted her professional life to primate conservation and research. She leads Yunkawasi, a conservation organization she founded with her mother, the late Fanny Fernandez Melo. Yunkawasi works with Amazonian and Andean communities for the conservation of threatened species through sustainable economic development, education and a protected area management approach.

"Fanny is leading the next generation of conservationists to protect nature and inspire people to care for our world. The depth of accomplishments set her apart from the other nominees. I can't wait to see the impact of her career in conservation," said Indianapolis Zoological Society President and CEO Dr. Rob Shumaker.

The Emerging Conservationist Award is supported by the Kobe Foundation and as Winner, Cornejo will receive a $50,000 award to continue with the Yunkawasi conservation work for endangered species through engaging participation from more than 20 rural and indigenous communities to sustainably manage territories and create protected areas. To date, more than 15,000 people have been reached through Cornejo's conservation education programs focused on Peruvian endangered wildlife. She has also authored more than 100 scientific articles and congressional presentations.

"I am very honored and grateful for this recognition that is not only for me, but also for my entire team, the people we work with, our partners in local communities, governments and our donors. Undoubtedly, being the first winner of the Emerging Conservationist Award and from an organization as important as the Indianapolis Prize is a great recognition for our work in Peru," said Fanny Cornejo, Winner of the Indianapolis Prize's inaugural Emerging Conservationist Award.

In 2014, Fanny received the Medal of the Order of Merit for Women, which is awarded by the Ministry of Women and Vulnerable Populations, for her outstanding professional activity for nature conservation. She is a Ph.D. Candidate at Stony Brook University in Long Island, New York, where she focuses her studies on primates and large mammals, ecological issues and protecting forests to improve the livelihoods of the local indigenous communities. Indianapolis Prize 2014 Winner Dr. Pat Wright is one of Cornejo's graduate mentors.

The Emerging Conservationist Award is made possible through a grant from the Kobe Foundation.

Cornejo will be formally recognized as the 2023 Emerging Conservationist at the Indianapolis Prize Gala presented by Cummins Inc. in downtown Indianapolis on Sept. 30, 2023.

The Emerging Conservationist Finalists were selected through a two-stage selection process, where a Review Committee evaluated and narrowed the application pool to 10 Finalists. Those Finalists were then evaluated by a Selection Committee who chose the Winner.

A press kit with videos, photos and an interview with the 2023 Emerging Conservationist Award Winner can be accessed via Dropbox or Google Drive.

About the Indianapolis Prize

The Indianapolis Prize recognizes and rewards conservationists who have achieved major victories in advancing the sustainability of an animal species or group of species. Since 2006, the Indianapolis Prize has given more than $5.6 million in unrestricted cash awards. The Indianapolis Prize is administered by the Indianapolis Zoological Society, Inc.

Connect with the Prize on Facebook and Twitter .

About the Indianapolis Zoo

The Indianapolis Zoo is the largest zoo in the U.S. that does not receive direct tax support. The Zoo has invested significant resources into conservation for decades, including the Indianapolis Prize  the world's leading award for animal conservation  the Global Center for Species Survival, and the Zoo's field conservation grants program.

The Indianapolis Zoo protects nature and inspires people to care for our world. Located in White River State Park downtown, the Indianapolis Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the American Alliance of Museums as a zoo, aquarium and botanical garden. Visit IndianapolisZoo.com

SOURCE Indianapolis Prize
Daylong event introduces high school students of color to travel opportunities, careers in the industry

NEW YORK, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Internova Travel Group is hosting the 2023 I AM C.U.L.T.U.R.E.D. (IAC) Youth Travel Summit, an annual program that gives high school students of color a chance to hear from insiders and influencers in the travel industry.

The summit, which will take place on April 22 at Internova's New York City headquarters, is designed to help build the next generation of global travelers and introduce young people to the variety of opportunities for careers in travel and tourism.

Internova Travel Group is hosting the 2023 I AM C.U.L.T.U.R.E.D. (IAC) Youth Travel Summit, an annual program that gives high school students of color a chance to hear from insiders and influencers in the travel industry.

"The Youth Travel Summit aligns perfectly with one of our core values, Everyone Belongs," said Kathy Christianson, who heads up diversity, equity and inclusion at Internova Travel Group. "We believe in the power that comes from a diverse team, inclusive of all people and thought. This fosters high performance within our company and helps our business compete on the global stage. We are proud to partner with I AM C.U.L.T.U.R.E.D. to introduce the vast opportunities within the travel industry to the next generation of travel leaders."

IAC is devoted to empowering high school youth of color to become innovative global citizens through experiential learning, mentorship and cultural experiences. It organizes travel abroad programs, provides opportunities for community service and offers monthly workshops on topics like financial literacy, wellness and college and career readiness.

"When the world shut down in 2020, our travel program was canceled but we remained devoted to providing our enrolled students with an opportunity to explore different cultures and hear from speakers in the travel industry with a digital passport and their laptop," said Karmia Berry, Executive Director of I AM C.U.L.T.U.R.E.D. "We are so excited for this opportunity in 2023 to expand the Youth Travel Summit in partnership with Internova, one of the world's largest travel services companies. As we aim to shape young global citizens to broaden their horizons, I know our students will walk away with a wealth of knowledge, resources and opportunities to inspire future travels of their own."

Youth Travel Summit participants will have the opportunity to attend three panels:

BIPOC Travel: Traveling as a person of color is significantly different than most people's leisure travel, from advertising about trips to the experiences that travelers encounter at their destination. This panel will explore the wonders of traveling abroad, with cautious optimism. Stephen Scott, a luxury travel advisor with Global Travel Collection, a division of Internova Travel Group, will be part of this panel.

Careers in Travel: From 2010 to 2018, jobs in the travel and tourism industry increased 22 percent, compared with only 17 percent for jobs in the rest of the private sector, according to the U.S. Travel Association. In addition, as of last year, domestic and international travelers in the United States supported 8.9 million jobs, and hiring in the industry is only expected to grow. Paul Coverdale, Director, Partner Analytics for Internova Travel Group, will be part of this panel.

Study Abroad: Only about 5 percent of Americans who study abroad are Black, according to the Institute of International Education. The panel will discuss some of the key issues and areas where we can change the narrative. There'll also be an opportunity for students to ask questions before they embark on a study-abroad program and get some tips on traveling outside the United States, from what they should pack to how much money they should budget, to whether there'll be Wi-Fi.

A networking lunch will be sponsored by Delta Air Lines.

The event will conclude with a travel expo, giving the students a chance to talk with representatives from travel and hospitality companies, including Accor, AmaWaterways, Daily Harvest, Delta Vacations, Disney Destinations, Globus family of brands, Hyatt Hotels & Resorts, Insight Vacations, MSC Cruises, New York City Tourism + Conventions, Omni Hotels & Resorts, RCI, Singapore Tourism Board, Syracuse University Study Abroad Program and Internova's own Travel Leaders of Tomorrow, among others.

Editor's Note: If you are interested in attending the event, please email Elizabeth Gaerlan at [email protected].

About Internova Travel Group

Internova Travel Group is one of the largest travel services companies in the world with a collection of leading brands delivering high-touch, personal travel expertise to leisure and corporate clients. Internova manages leisure, business and franchise firms through a portfolio of distinctive divisions. Internova represents more than 100,000 travel advisors in over 6,000 company-owned and affiliated locations predominantly in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, with a presence in more than 80 countries.

About I AM C.U.L.T.U.R.E.D.

I AM C.U.L.T.U.R.E.D. is devoted to empowering high school youth of color to become innovative global citizens through experiential learning, mentorship and cultural experiences. The organization is passionately dedicated to promoting self-empowerment and appreciation for cultural richness and diversity and to creating global leaders of tomorrow who envision a life beyond their immediate communities while fulfilling personal and professional goals towards success.

CONTACT:

Elizabeth Gaerlan

[email protected]

212-944-1125

SOURCE Internova Travel Group
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan Jeyhun Bayramov has held a telephone conversation with Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jasim Al-Budaiwi, Trend reports citing Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry.

During a telephone conversation, issues of the current agenda of cooperation between Azerbaijan and the GCC, as well as prospects for the development of relations were discussed.

Minister Bayramov congratulated Jasim Al-Budaiwi on his appointment as Secretary General of the GCC and wished him success in his work.

Speaking about Azerbaijan's relations with the GCC member states, based on mutual respect, support and solidarity, Minister Bayramov noted that these relations contribute to mutually beneficial cooperation within the GCC. The minister noted that the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on the consultation mechanism between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the General Secretariat of the GCC made an important contribution to the development of relations between Azerbaijan and the GCC. In this regard, he stressed the importance of mutual contacts and dialogue to discuss issues arising from the said Memorandum, as well as further steps. Referring to the prospects for jointly implemented projects in the economic sphere, as well as the results of joint business forums held between Azerbaijan and the GCC, Jeyhun Bayramov noted that it is necessary to use the existing potential in the direction of further development of cooperation in the field of investments.

Jasim Al-Budaiwi noted with satisfaction the existence of many common values that unite the GCC member states and Azerbaijan, and stated that he would spare no effort towards further development of relations during his tenure as Secretary General.

The parties expressed sincere congratulations to each other on the occasion of the upcoming Ramadan holiday and wished that this holy holiday would bring peace to the entire Islamic world.

The sides also exchanged views on other issues of mutual interest.
AUSTIN, Texas, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- PatientGenie, a consumer health technology company, is excited to announce the addition of PatientGPT, a groundbreaking AI navigation system, to its search engine for healthcare. Built on OpenAI's ChatGPT advanced technology, PatientGPT aims to transform patient navigation, offering a seamless and personalized experience for healthcare organizations and their patients.

Introducing PatientGPT: The Future of Patient Navigation by PatientGenie Using OpenAI Introducing PatientGPT: The Future of Patient Navigation by PatientGenie Using OpenAI

The integration of PatientGPT into PatientGenie's AI search engine allows healthcare organizations to unlock the full potential of their digital channels by providing a more efficient, accurate, and user-friendly experience. This cutting-edge solution empowers patients to easily access relevant information and locate specialists, as well as book appointments and communicate with healthcare providers through an integrated ecosystem of technology partners.

"PatientGenie's mission has always been to empower healthcare organizations with innovative technologies that enhance the patient experience," said Brian Russon, CEO at PatientGenie. "With the addition of PatientGPT, we are taking patient navigation to a whole new level, enabling healthcare providers to deliver personalized, efficient, and accurate services that ultimately lead to better patient outcomes."

Key advantages of PatientGenie's PatientGPT AI navigation include:

1. Improved Patient Engagement: By providing an intuitive, conversational AI interface, PatientGPT enhances patient engagement and satisfaction, leading to better long-term relationships between patients and healthcare providers.

2. Streamlined Access: PatientGPT's AI-driven navigation, paired with PatientGenie's patented provider search capabilities, help patients quickly find relevant information, such as treatment options, specialist recommendations, reducing the time and effort required to navigate complex healthcare systems.

3. Enhanced Security and Compliance: PatientGenie's AI search engine adheres to strict data security and privacy standards, ensuring that sensitive patient information is safe and private.

4. Scalable and Customizable Solutions: PatientGenie can be easily integrated into existing healthcare IT systems and can be customized to meet the unique needs of individual organizations, making it a versatile solution for healthcare providers of all sizes.

Healthcare organizations interested in partnering or implementing PatientGenie's AI search engine with PatientGPT capabilities are encouraged to visit patientgenie.com for more information or to schedule a demo.

About PatientGenie:

PatientGenie is a consumer health technology company dedicated to empowering healthcare organizations with innovative solutions to enhance patient experiences and improve overall efficiency. With a suite of tools designed to optimize patient navigation, streamline appointment scheduling and access to care, PatientGenie is revolutionizing the way patients and providers interact in the healthcare space. For more information, please visit patientgenie.com.

Press Contact:

Brian Russon

CEO

PatientGenie

(512) 772-4374 x.102

[email protected]

www.patientgenie.com

SOURCE PatientGenie, Inc.
MANHATTAN BEACH, Calif., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On Monday, April 10, Kinecta Federal Credit Union opened a new branch in the historic community of Watts in South Los Angeles. This branch marks Kinecta's 30th location. The Watts area has a culturally rich past. As the birthplace of many notable writers, musicians and artists, Watts has a long-standing legacy of contributing to arts and culture in America. With the support of its many dedicated community organizations, Watts is undergoing a revitalization that has brought prominence back to this historic district.

"It is a privilege to open a branch in this important neighborhood and provide financial services to this vibrant and historic community," said Keith Sultemeier, President and Chief Executive Officer of Kinecta. "We are excited to bring our dedication to service and building stronger communities to those who call Watts home."

As a credit union, Kinecta offers many of the same products and services as banks, but there are significant differences in how credit unions operate. Banks are for-profit and accountable to shareholders who demand returns. Credit unions are not-for-profit and accountable to their member-owners. Because of this, Kinecta reinvests its profits into its members, communities and credit union, allowing them to provide lower rates on loans and higher rates on deposit products and have a greater focus on member service. Kinecta is dedicated to improving members' lives through actions such as financial education, wellness, social responsibility, mentorship, and diversity, equity and inclusion practices.

Kinecta helps to guide more than 270,000 members nationwide to financial security through banking, lending, insurance and wealth services. From free online financial workshops to financial recommendations tailored for individual life events, Kinecta invests heavily in helping members live their best lives.

Learn more about the Watts branch on the website.

About Kinecta Federal Credit Union

Headquartered in Manhattan Beach, California, Kinecta Federal Credit Union is the country's 35th largest credit union, with assets of $6.7 billion and more than 270,000 members from coast to coast. Banking the Southern California area for more than 80 years, with additional branches in New York, New Jersey, Northern California and Florida, Kinecta offers its members a full range of financial products from banking, lending and insurance to wealth management services. Kinecta has been recognized by the Mortgage Bankers Association as a recipient of its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Residential Leadership Award, and received the Best of Show award granted by the Credit Union National Association (CUNA) Technology Council. Residents of Rochester, NY, voted Kinecta as a finalist for Best Credit Union in the Democrat & Chronicle's annual Rochester Choice Awards in 2022. Forbes awarded Kinecta as a top-ranked credit union in California on its America's Best Credit Unions in Each State 2022 List. Kinecta has 30 locations, and its members can use a network of more than 5,800 shared branches and access over 85,000 fee-free ATMs nationwide. For more information on Kinecta, visit the website and LinkedIn .

MEDIA CONTACT:

Ryann Checchi, Interdependence PR

[email protected]

708-420-4776

SOURCE Kinecta Federal Credit Union
LONDON, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- London-based Fintech Lanistar Limited is preparing for launch in the UK, which is expected to take place this Spring, 2023. Over the last two years Lanistar has invested heavily in building a winning proposition in Latin America (LATAM) and has successfully launched in Brazil with over 41,000 customers on-board. This is the result of important investments in both their technology but also the team now headed by Jeremy Baber a financial services veteran (ex-GE Capital, Aldermore Bank and Link Financial).

Lanistar

This early success in Brazil is extremely promising and will be followed by further expansion in the LATAM markets. Lanistar expects to grow to over 1 million customers by mid-2023.

Lanistar's focus in the UK and EU has taken a backseat due to unprecedented interest experienced in LATAM, but now the Company is planning to refocus its expansion on its 'home-turf', using the valuable and exciting learnings from their proposition in the Latin American market.

Lanistar's CEO, Jeremy Baber, explains: "The key to our launch (in Brazil) and those to follow in other parts of LATAM, has been our alliance partnership with Mastercard members, who offered a 'Banking as a Service' solution. This means Lanistar has a 'one-stop shop' solution for market entry in the region, offering a full suite of services including Bank Accounts, Card Issuing, fully digital onboarding, and best of breed Regulatory Compliance, KYC, and Transaction Monitoring.

"This has allowed Lanistar to concentrate on customer acquisition via our ever-growing social influencer family, and best-of-breed customer service, and continue development of the customer proposition with new and innovative services. The successful launch we have seen in Brazil with Bankly/Acesso Solutions, has made us review our growth plans in other regions. This means we are making a change in the UK and EU."

Such change, as referred to by Baber, is in seeking a UK and EU partner who can provide that same 'one-stop shop' solution enjoyed by Lanistar in Latin America. To that end, Lanistar has chosen to change its UK and EU partner from Modulr to its current card provider, whom Lanistar believes offers the solutions Lanistar requires.

Baber clarified: "We have had a close relationship with Modulr over the past two years and respect them in the industry, but regrettably they could not offer the Full Banking solution which has been key to our success in LATAM. Our current Mastercard Partner, can now offer us that same 'one stop shop' for the UK and EU. Therefore, it was logical to make a clean break from Modulr and put our reliance fully on them for our full UK launch and later in the year in Europe."

When asked about the FCA and Lanistar's agency status he replied: "Yes, we lose our FCA agency of Modulr registration but in reality, the majority of Fintech's have sought this moniker as a 'badge of honour' rather than actually provide the services to their customers. We are being honest, we are a distributor of our Partner's services via our Brand and Mobile Application  our Partner should and must control the regulated elements of what we distribute, it is the correct model and how I believe the FCA intended Fintech to develop."

About Lanistar

Lanistar was founded in 2019 by entrepreneur Gurhan Kiziloz, whose ambition is to build a fintech unicorn that truly challenges the status quo of old-fashioned, traditional banking services.

Using modern technology and working with industry-leading partners, the Lanistar team is building a platform that provides a total 'AnyMoney' solution for its customers. This will give customers access to all their financial products in one place, from general bank accounts all the way through to cryptocurrency.

Lanistar is not a bank but a payment card provider, operating as an intermediary that offers financial services to end users. Lanistar offers the services of a typical bank account through its banking partner Modulr, but with advanced UI/UX and design to make it easier and more secure than high street banks.

Lanistar Ltd is a registered EMD agent (FRN:902996) of Modulr FS Limited and may distribute and redeem e-money and provide payment services. Modulr FS Limited is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority ("FCA") under the Electronic Money Regulations 2011 (FRN: 900573) for the issuing of electronic money and to provide payment services. Lanistar Limited ("Lanistar") is currently only carrying our pre-launch marketing in preparation for the future launch of Lanistar branded payment cards ("Cards"). Lanistar is finalising arrangements with various partner firms who are authorised and/or regulated (by the FCA and other overseas regulators) and the Cards will only be launched and go-live when those arrangements are in place.

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2056890/Lanistar.jpg

SOURCE Lanistar
Preventing workplace violence has been a long-standing priority of ENA

SCHAUMBURG, Ill., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Every day, health care workers across the country are violently attacked. In emergency departments, which are open around the clock and required by federal law to stabilize and treat anyone who walks in, the situation is alarming. Studies have shown that ED staff experience a violent event about once every two months.

On April 18, Rep. Joe Courtney, D.-Conn. and Sen. Tammy Baldwin, D.-Wisc., introduced the Workplace Violence Prevention for Health Care and Social Service Workers Act (H.R. 2663 and S. 1176). The Emergency Nurses Association has previously supported the introduction of other workplace violence bills.

"Continued violence against emergency nurses or any health care worker is neither normal, nor acceptable, under any circumstance, yet the problem has gone unabated to the point of it becoming a crisis," said 2023 ENA President Terry Foster, MSN, RN, CEN, CPEN, CCRN, TCRN, FAEN. "Meaningful solutions to mitigate and reduce violence in the emergency department are imperative, which is why ENA has long-supported legislation such as the Workplace Violence Prevention for Health Care and Social Service Workers Act. The time to act is now."

This proposed legislation directs the Secretary of Labor to require health care and social service employers to develop and implement workplace violence prevention plans that are worker-driven and comprehensive to ensure the safety of patients and workers.

Through a workplace violence prevention plan, an employer would:

Develop processes to identify and respond to risks and hazards that make settings vulnerable to violence.

Implement protocols to document and investigate violence.

Create an environment that supports employees who report incidents of violence, including non-retaliation policies.

Ensure that employees are appropriately trained in identifying and addressing hazards and their rights regarding workplace violence.

Workplace violence has long been a top priority for ENA, which supported similar bills introduced in the last four congressional cycles. In 2019, ENA and the American College of Emergency Physicians united to launch the No Silence on ED Violence campaign focused on raising awareness about the issue and providing emergency nurses and physicians with relevant resources and a peer support network.

About the Emergency Nurses Association

The Emergency Nurses Association is the premier professional nursing association dedicated to defining the future of emergency nursing through advocacy, education, research, innovation, and leadership. Founded in 1970, ENA has proven to be an indispensable resource to the global emergency nursing community. With 50,000 members worldwide, ENA advocates for patient safety, develops industry-leading practice standards and guidelines and guides emergency health care public policy. ENA members have expertise in triage, patient care, disaster preparedness, and all aspects of emergency care. Additional information is available at www.ena.org.

ENA Media Contact:

Morgan Wietecha

Media Relations Strategist

847-460-4038

[email protected]

SOURCE Emergency Nurses Association
MONTREAL, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - The Lion Electric Company (NYSE: LEV) (TSX: LEV) ("Lion" or the "Company"), a leading manufacturer of all-electric medium and heavy-duty urban vehicles, today announced that it will release its first quarter 2023 results on May 9, 2023, before markets open. A conference call and webcast will be held on the same day, at 8:30 a.m. (Eastern Time) to discuss the results.

To participate in the conference call, please dial (226) 828-7575 or (833) 950-0062 (toll free) using the Access Code 973203. A live webcast of the conference call will also be available at www.thelionelectric.com under the "Events and Presentation" page of the "Investors" section. An archive of the event will be available shortly after the conference call.

ABOUT LION ELECTRIC

Lion Electric is an innovative manufacturer of zero-emission vehicles. The company creates, designs and manufactures all-electric class 5 to class 8 commercial urban trucks and all-electric buses and minibuses for the school, paratransit and mass transit segments. Lion is a North American leader in electric transportation and designs, builds and assembles many of its vehicles' components, including chassis, battery packs, truck cabins and bus bodies.

Always actively seeking new and reliable technologies, Lion vehicles have unique features that are specifically adapted to its users and their everyday needs. Lion believes that transitioning to all-electric vehicles will lead to major improvements in our society, environment and overall quality of life. Lion shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange and the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol LEV.

SOURCE Lion Electric
Home Comfort Experts, the leading local HVAC service provider, helps homeowners identify signs that a new home cooling system could be more efficient and cost-effective

SOUTH BEND, Ind., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Home Comfort Experts, the preferred local provider of high-quality HVAC, indoor air quality and plumbing service in Northern Indiana and Southwestern Michigan, advises homeowners to recognize the signs that it's time to replace their home cooling system.

Home Comfort Experts, the preferred local provider of high-quality HVAC, indoor air quality and plumbing service in Northern Indiana and Southwestern Michigan, advises homeowners to recognize the signs that its time to replace their home cooling system.

The costs of an aging AC system include frequent service for minor issues and higher utility costs due to reduced efficiency. As cooling systems reach the end of their lifespan, the risk of sudden, unexpected failure increases, which can result in inconvenience, discomfort and costly emergency service.

"There's no simple formula to determine when it makes sense to replace an aging system and when to continue investing in minor repairs," said Brian West, general manager of Home Comfort Experts. "A number of factors have to be taken into consideration, such as the age and condition of the equipment. But every system eventually reaches a point where proactive replacement is more cost-effective. Plus, a new system provides peace of mind by helping you avoid the cost and inconvenience of an unscheduled replacement."

Here are some of the signs that you should consider professional installation of a new home AC:

Age: Most cooling systems, in most climates, will last about 10 or 15 years. If your unit is more than 10 years old, investing in a new system may provide greater value than continuing to spend money on frequent minor repairs. AC systems gradually lose efficiency over time, too, so replacing an older system could lead to significant energy savings. And you'll reduce the likelihood of sudden failure with a new system.

Most cooling systems, in most climates, will last about 10 or 15 years. If your unit is more than 10 years old, investing in a new system may provide greater value than continuing to spend money on frequent minor repairs. AC systems gradually lose efficiency over time, too, so replacing an older system could lead to significant energy savings. And you'll reduce the likelihood of sudden failure with a new system. Higher utility bills: Cooling systems operate less efficiently as they get older. If your system costs more to operate despite regular maintenance and service, that rising inefficiency could indicate that your system is nearing the end of its lifespan.

Cooling systems operate less efficiently as they get older. If your system costs more to operate despite regular maintenance and service, that rising inefficiency could indicate that your system is nearing the end of its lifespan. Frequent repairs: Maintenance, tune-ups and routine service for minor repairs can extend the life of your equipment. But eventually the cost of replacement is a better value than continuing to sink money to keep an aging system running.

Maintenance, tune-ups and routine service for minor repairs can extend the life of your equipment. But eventually the cost of replacement is a better value than continuing to sink money to keep an aging system running. Lack of cooling performance: If your system just can't cool some areas or rooms in your home anymore, it may be time to consider a new AC. A tune-up may identify an issue that's easy to resolve, but ongoing reduced performance can be a sign that your system is reaching the end of its life.

"If your AC breaks down in the middle of summer, that could mean major headaches, including stress, lost time from work, missed family events, discomfort, and the high cost of emergency service," West said. "Every home cooling system will eventually need to be replaced. But knowing what to look for and regular professional maintenance will help you stay ahead. Replacing your system at the right time ensures you get the most out of your existing AC and enjoy all the benefits and value of your new one."

Since 2006, Home Comfort Experts has specialized in providing residential heating, cooling and plumbing service and maintenance, indoor air quality products and services, and equipment replacement. Home Comfort Experts serves Fort Wayne, Columbia City, Warsaw, South Bend, Mishawaka, Elkhart, Plymouth and LaPorte in Indiana and Niles, St. Joseph, Berrien Springs and Dowagiac in Michigan.

To take a quiz on whether it's time to replace your cooling system, visit https://www.homecomfortexpertsinc.com/hvac-repair-or-replace-quiz/.

About Home Comfort Experts

Home Comfort Experts is the preferred local provider of high-quality HVAC, indoor air quality and plumbing service in Northern Indiana and Southwestern Michigan. Our customers' satisfaction and comfort is our number one goal. Home Comfort Experts serves clients in northern Indiana and southwestern Michigan, including Fort Wayne, Columbia City, Warsaw, South Bend, Mishawaka, Elkhart, Plymouth, LaPorte, St. Joseph, Niles, Berrien Springs and Dowagiac. We're the technicians you can trust with your house keys. For more information, visit https://homecomfortexpertsinc.com/ .

MEDIA CONTACT:

Heather Ripley

Ripley PR

(865) 977-1973

[email protected]

SOURCE Home Comfort Experts
ST. HELENA, Calif., April 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- David Amadia, former President of Ridge Vineyards, has accepted a new role as Chief Operating Officer at Fantesca Estate & Winery starting in early April. He will work alongside an all-star team including winery owners Susan and Duane Hoff as well as storied winemakers Heidi Barrett, "The Queen of Cult Cabernet" as acclaimed by top wine critic Robert Parker, Tony Arcudi, maker of 100-point wines at Kapcsandy, and wine industry veteran DLynn Proctor, named "Best Sommelier in America" by Wine & Spirits Magazine in 2008. As COO, Amadia will oversee all winery operations, sales, marketing, and hospitality, building upon Susan and Duane's vision of rare, high-quality wines paired with impeccable hospitality for Fantesca's allocation members.

Fantesca Estate & Winery COO, David Amadia

Amadia's 30 plus year wine industry experience, including the last 17 years with Ridge, has been a journey of elevating world-class wineries and wines. His path includes meaningful stints at Penfolds with Grange, at Bonny Doon with Le Cigare Volant, and at Ridge Vineyards with Monte Bello. Throughout his career, Amadia has led teams to elevated performance by improving business sustainability, quality and depth of distribution, and awareness with key press and trade. "Fantesca is approaching its 20th anniversary and Susan, Duane and the team have done an amazing job of attracting great talent, producing exceptionally high-quality wine, and establishing a loyal clientele. My role is to collaborate with and lead this talented team to set an ambitious course for even greater things over the next 20 years and then successfully execute this ambitious vision."

"David's roles and relationships with wine industry icons and his top-level executive experience is precisely what we were searching for," notes Susan Hoff, Fantesca Estate & Winery proprietress. "We've built our dream here on Spring Mountain and now think that David can take us to the next level," notes proprietor, Duane Hoff.

Fantesca Estate & Winery is in St. Helena, California, and is open by appointment only. Susan and Duane Hoff purchased the estate in 2004 and asked Heidi Barrett and then Tony Arcudi to craft their wines and tap into longtime industry relationships for Napa Valley, and Russian River Valley winegrapes to make sought-after wines.

The name of the winery comes from a character in the Italian comedy troupe that inspired Cirque Du Soleil. La Fantesca was the single female character in the early theatrical performances of Commedia dell'Arte. Both the lover and the equal of the protagonist, Harlequin, Fantesca could always be counted on to charm the audience. When the Hoffs heard Fantesca described as "Sexy, Smart, and Unpretentious," they knew the name was worth living up to. For more information, please visit https://fantesca.com/.

SOURCE Fantesca Estate & Winery
NEW YORK, April 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The luxury watch market size is set to grow by USD 2910.23 million between 2022 and 2027 and register a CAGR of 1.61%, according to Technavio's latest market research report estimates. With a focus on identifying dominant industry influencers, Technavio's reports present a detailed study by the way of synthesis, and summation of data from multiple sources. This report offers an up-to-date analysis of the current market scenario, the latest trends and drivers, and the overall market environment. Technavio offers in-depth market insights that help global businesses achieve bigger growth opportunities. View Sample Report

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Luxury Watch Market 2023-2027

The report also covers the following areas:

Luxury Watch Market 2023-2027: Segmentation

End-user

Men



Women

Distribution Channel

Offline



Online

Geography

Europe



North America



APAC



Middle East And Africa



South America

The market share growth by the men segment will be significant for the growth of the market during the forecast period. The segment growth is driven by the various new product offerings and the ability to personalize and customize products. Vendors are luring customers by offering affordable luxury watches to increase their revenue share, which is anticipated to increase the demand for high-end watches among men. Hence, during the forecast period, such product launches are anticipated to propel the growth of the men's segment of the global market.

Explore the severe impact of each segment on the market growth, buy now!

Luxury Watch Market 2023-2027: Vendor Analysis and Scope

The market is fragmented, and the degree of fragmentation will accelerate during the forecast period. Some of the major vendors of the luxury watch market include Burberry Group Plc, Casio Computer Co. Ltd., CHANEL Ltd., Citizen Watch Co. Ltd., Compagnie Financiere Richemont SA, Daniel Wellington AB, Dolce and Gabbana S.r.l, Fossil Group Inc., Hermes International SA, Kering SA, Le petit fils de L.U. Chopard and Cie SA, LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE, Movado Group Inc., Patek Philippe SA, Ralph Lauren Corp., Rolex SA, Seiko Holdings Corp., The Swatch Group Ltd., FESTINA LOTUS SA, and Breitling SA. To help businesses improve their market position, Technavio's report provides a detailed analysis of around 15+ vendors operating in the market.

Vendor Offerings

Burberry Group Plc - The company offers luxury watches under the brand Burberry.

The company offers luxury watches under the brand Burberry. Casio Computer Co. Ltd. - The company offers luxury watches such as G shock, Baby G, Pro Trek, Sheen, and Edifice.

The company offers luxury watches such as G shock, Baby G, Pro Trek, Sheen, and Edifice. CHANEL Ltd. - The company offers luxury watches such as Premiere Edition Originale, Premiere Iconic Chain Watch, and Premiere Ribbon Watch.

Market trends such as the growing demand for customized luxury watches are likely to support the growth of the market. However, factors such as the increased availability of counterfeit products may threaten the growth of the market.

Luxury Watch Market 2023-2027: Market Dynamics

Key Drivers

A major driving factor that is expected to fuel market growth is the growing influence of fashion trends.

Watches have evolved into fashion accessories as a result of changes in consumer attitudes and consumption patterns.

Manufacturers are taking advantage of this trend by offering a variety of products to appeal to all consumer demographics, particularly young people. Most manufacturers also regularly update and grow their product lines.

Young and fashion-conscious consumers are the target market for trendy watches, which is likely to increase and will have a positive impact on the global market growth during the forecast period.

Major Trends

An emerging trend in the luxury watch market is the growing demand for customized luxury watches.

A variety of manufacturers around the world, including Hermes International, offer customized watches, which entails changing the bands, dials, and bezels.

Moreover, the broad range of products offered by vendors enables them to attract new clients for customization. For instance, Rolex offers its customers the option to alter the strap, dial, and color of watches.

The customization elevates the prices of these watches, which, in turn, is expected to drive the growth of the global market during the forecast period.

Key Challenges

A major challenge impeding the luxury market growth is the decline in profit margins of vendors and retailers.

The decline is a result of the high cost of raw materials and fierce vendor competition.

To gain a competitive advantage, there is high pressure on retailers to stock luxury goods, such as expensive watches. However, this involves high inventory costs.

Promotional offers from vendors also incur additional costs to retailers. The sales of watches in several top markets, including Asia and the Middle East , are impacted by the rising Swiss franc value, the drop in oil prices, and the unstable market conditions worldwide.

and the , are impacted by the rising Swiss franc value, the drop in oil prices, and the unstable market conditions worldwide. Thus, such factors will pose a major challenge for the global market during the forecast period.

Luxury Watch Market 2023-2027: Key Highlights

CAGR of the market during the forecast period 2023-2027

Detailed information on factors that will assist luxury watch market growth during the forecast period

Estimation of the luxury watch market size and its contribution to the parent market

Predictions on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior

The growth of the luxury watch market

Analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information on vendors

Comprehensive details of factors that will challenge the growth of luxury watch market vendors

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Related Reports:

The luxury handbags market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 7.68% between 2022 and 2027. The size of the market is forecasted to increase by USD 29,125.59 million. This report extensively covers market segmentation by distribution channel (offline and online), type (handbag, backpack, wallet, and others), and geography ( Europe , North America , APAC, South America , and Middle East and Africa ). The high influence of celebrity endorsements on purchase decisions is notably driving market growth.

is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 7.68% between 2022 and 2027. The size of the market is forecasted to increase by USD 29,125.59 million. This report extensively covers market segmentation by distribution channel (offline and online), type (handbag, backpack, wallet, and others), and geography ( , , APAC, , and and ). The high influence of celebrity endorsements on purchase decisions is notably driving market growth. The luxury massage chair market size in US is expected to increase by USD 724.28 million from 2020 to 2025, and the market's growth momentum will accelerate at a CAGR of 5.42%. This report extensively covers segmentation by end-user (residential and commercial) and distribution channel (offline and online). The health benefits of massage chairs are notably driving the market growth.

Luxury Watch Market Scope Report Coverage Details Base year 2022 Historic period 2017-2021 Forecast period 2023-2027 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 1.61% Market growth 2023-2027 USD 2,910.23 million Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2022-2023(%) 1.05 Regional analysis Europe, North America, APAC, Middle East and Africa, and South America Performing market contribution Europe at 27% Key countries US, China, Germany, France, and UK Competitive landscape Leading Vendors, Market Positioning of Vendors, Competitive Strategies, and Industry Risks Key companies profiled Burberry Group Plc, Casio Computer Co. Ltd., CHANEL Ltd., Citizen Watch Co. Ltd., Compagnie Financiere Richemont SA, Daniel Wellington AB, Dolce and Gabbana S.r.l, Fossil Group Inc., Hermes International SA, Kering SA, Le petit fils de L.U. Chopard and Cie SA, LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE, Movado Group Inc., Patek Philippe SA, Ralph Lauren Corp., Rolex SA, Seiko Holdings Corp., The Swatch Group Ltd., FESTINA LOTUS SA, and Breitling SA Market dynamics Parent market analysis, Market growth inducers and obstacles, Fast-growing and slow-growing segment analysis, COVID-19 impact and recovery analysis and future consumer dynamics, Market condition analysis for the forecast period Customization purview If our report has not included the data that you are looking for, you can reach out to our analysts and get segments customized.

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Table of Contents

1 Executive Summary

1.1 Market overview

Exhibit 01: Executive Summary  Chart on Market Overview



Exhibit 02: Executive Summary  Data Table on Market Overview



Exhibit 03: Executive Summary  Chart on Global Market Characteristics



Exhibit 04: Executive Summary  Chart on Market by Geography



Exhibit 05: Executive Summary  Chart on Market Segmentation by End-user



Exhibit 06: Executive Summary  Chart on Market Segmentation by Distribution Channel



Exhibit 07: Executive Summary  Chart on Incremental Growth



Exhibit 08: Executive Summary  Data Table on Incremental Growth



Exhibit 09: Executive Summary  Chart on Vendor Market Positioning

2 Market Landscape

2.1 Market ecosystem

Exhibit 10: Parent market



Exhibit 11: Market Characteristics

3 Market Sizing

3.1 Market definition

Exhibit 12: Offerings of vendors included in the market definition

3.2 Market segment analysis

Exhibit 13: Market segments

3.3 Market size 2022

3.4 Market outlook: Forecast for 2022-2027

Exhibit 14: Chart on Global - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 15: Data Table on Global - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 16: Chart on Global Market: Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 17: Data Table on Global Market: Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

4 Historic Market Size

4.1 Global luxury watch market 2017 - 2021

Exhibit 18: Historic Market Size  Data Table on Global luxury watch market 2017 - 2021 ($ million)

4.2 End user Segment Analysis 2017 - 2021

Exhibit 19: Historic Market Size  End user Segment 2017 - 2021 ($ million)

4.3 Distribution channel Segment Analysis 2017 - 2021

Exhibit 20: Historic Market Size  Distribution channel Segment 2017 - 2021 ($ million)

4.4 Geography Segment Analysis 2017 - 2021

Exhibit 21: Historic Market Size  Geography Segment 2017 - 2021 ($ million)

4.5 Country Segment Analysis 2017 - 2021

Exhibit 22: Historic Market Size  Country Segment 2017 - 2021 ($ million)

5 Five Forces Analysis

5.1 Five forces summary

Exhibit 23: Five forces analysis - Comparison between 2022 and 2027

5.2 Bargaining power of buyers

Exhibit 24: Chart on Bargaining power of buyers  Impact of key factors 2022 and 2027

5.3 Bargaining power of suppliers

Exhibit 25: Bargaining power of suppliers  Impact of key factors in 2022 and 2027

5.4 Threat of new entrants

Exhibit 26: Threat of new entrants  Impact of key factors in 2022 and 2027

5.5 Threat of substitutes

Exhibit 27: Threat of substitutes  Impact of key factors in 2022 and 2027

5.6 Threat of rivalry

Exhibit 28: Threat of rivalry  Impact of key factors in 2022 and 2027

5.7 Market condition

Exhibit 29: Chart on Market condition - Five forces 2022 and 2027

6 Market Segmentation by End-user

6.1 Market segments

Exhibit 30: Chart on End-user - Market share 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 31: Data Table on End-user - Market share 2022-2027 (%)

6.2 Comparison by End-user

Exhibit 32: Chart on Comparison by End-user



Exhibit 33: Data Table on Comparison by End-user

6.3 Men - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 34: Chart on Men - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 35: Data Table on Men - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 36: Chart on Men - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 37: Data Table on Men - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

6.4 Women - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 38: Chart on Women - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 39: Data Table on Women - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 40: Chart on Women - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 41: Data Table on Women - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

6.5 Market opportunity by End-user

Exhibit 42: Market opportunity by End-user ($ million)



Exhibit 43: Data Table on Market opportunity by End-user ($ million)

7 Market Segmentation by Distribution Channel

7.1 Market segments

Exhibit 44: Chart on Distribution Channel - Market share 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 45: Data Table on Distribution Channel - Market share 2022-2027 (%)

7.2 Comparison by Distribution Channel

Exhibit 46: Chart on Comparison by Distribution Channel



Exhibit 47: Data Table on Comparison by Distribution Channel

7.3 Offline - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 48: Chart on Offline - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 49: Data Table on Offline - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 50: Chart on Offline - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 51: Data Table on Offline - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

7.4 Online - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 52: Chart on Online - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 53: Data Table on Online - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 54: Chart on Online - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 55: Data Table on Online - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

7.5 Market opportunity by Distribution Channel

Exhibit 56: Market opportunity by Distribution Channel ($ million)



Exhibit 57: Data Table on Market opportunity by Distribution Channel ($ million)

8 Customer Landscape

8.1 Customer landscape overview

Exhibit 58: Analysis of price sensitivity, lifecycle, customer purchase basket, adoption rates, and purchase criteria

9 Geographic Landscape

9.1 Geographic segmentation

Exhibit 59: Chart on Market share by geography 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 60: Data Table on Market share by geography 2022-2027 (%)

9.2 Geographic comparison

Exhibit 61: Chart on Geographic comparison



Exhibit 62: Data Table on Geographic comparison

9.3 Europe - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 63: Chart on Europe - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 64: Data Table on Europe - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 65: Chart on Europe - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

Exhibit 66: Data Table on Europe - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.4 North America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 67: Chart on North America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 68: Data Table on North America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 69: Chart on North America - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

Exhibit 70: Data Table on North America - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.5 APAC - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 71: Chart on APAC - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 72: Data Table on APAC - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 73: Chart on APAC - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 74: Data Table on APAC - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.6 Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

and - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 75: Chart on Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

and - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 76: Data Table on Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

and - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 77: Chart on Middle East and Africa - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

and - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

Exhibit 78: Data Table on Middle East and Africa - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.7 South America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 79: Chart on South America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 80: Data Table on South America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 81: Chart on South America - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

Exhibit 82: Data Table on South America - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.8 US - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 83: Chart on US - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 84: Data Table on US - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 85: Chart on US - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 86: Data Table on US - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.9 Germany - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 87: Chart on Germany - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 88: Data Table on Germany - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 89: Chart on Germany - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

Exhibit 90: Data Table on Germany - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.10 China - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 91: Chart on China - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 92: Data Table on China - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 93: Chart on China - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

Exhibit 94: Data Table on China - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.11 France - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 95: Chart on France - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 96: Data Table on France - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 97: Chart on France - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

Exhibit 98: Data Table on France - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.12 UK - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 99: Chart on UK - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 100: Data Table on UK - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 101: Chart on UK - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 102: Data Table on UK - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.13 Market opportunity by geography

Exhibit 103: Market opportunity by geography ($ million)



Exhibit 104: Data Tables on Market opportunity by geography ($ million)

10 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends

10.1 Market drivers

10.2 Market challenges

10.3 Impact of drivers and challenges

Exhibit 105: Impact of drivers and challenges in 2022 and 2027

10.4 Market trends

11 Vendor Landscape

11.1 Overview

11.2 Vendor landscape

Exhibit 106: Overview on Criticality of inputs and Factors of differentiation

11.3 Landscape disruption

Exhibit 107: Overview on factors of disruption

11.4 Industry risks

Exhibit 108: Impact of key risks on business

12 Vendor Analysis

12.1 Vendors covered

Exhibit 109: Vendors covered

12.2 Market positioning of vendors

Exhibit 110: Matrix on vendor position and classification

12.3 Burberry Group Plc

Exhibit 111: Burberry Group Plc - Overview



Exhibit 112: Burberry Group Plc - Business segments



Exhibit 113: Burberry Group Plc - Key offerings



Exhibit 114: Burberry Group Plc - Segment focus

12.4 Casio Computer Co. Ltd.

Exhibit 115: Casio Computer Co. Ltd. - Overview



Exhibit 116: Casio Computer Co. Ltd. - Business segments



Exhibit 117: Casio Computer Co. Ltd. - Key news



Exhibit 118: Casio Computer Co. Ltd. - Key offerings



Exhibit 119: Casio Computer Co. Ltd. - Segment focus

12.5 CHANEL Ltd.

Exhibit 120: CHANEL Ltd. - Overview



Exhibit 121: CHANEL Ltd. - Business segments



Exhibit 122: CHANEL Ltd. - Key offerings



Exhibit 123: CHANEL Ltd. - Segment focus

12.6 Citizen Watch Co. Ltd.

Exhibit 124: Citizen Watch Co. Ltd. - Overview



Exhibit 125: Citizen Watch Co. Ltd. - Business segments



Exhibit 126: Citizen Watch Co. Ltd. - Key offerings



Exhibit 127: Citizen Watch Co. Ltd. - Segment focus

12.7 Compagnie Financiere Richemont SA

Exhibit 128: Compagnie Financiere Richemont SA - Overview



Exhibit 129: Compagnie Financiere Richemont SA - Business segments



Exhibit 130: Compagnie Financiere Richemont SA - Key offerings



Exhibit 131: Compagnie Financiere Richemont SA - Segment focus

12.8 Daniel Wellington AB

Exhibit 132: Daniel Wellington AB - Overview



Exhibit 133: Daniel Wellington AB - Product / Service



Exhibit 134: Daniel Wellington AB - Key offerings

12.9 Fossil Group Inc.

Exhibit 135: Fossil Group Inc. - Overview



Exhibit 136: Fossil Group Inc. - Business segments



Exhibit 137: Fossil Group Inc. - Key offerings



Exhibit 138: Fossil Group Inc. - Segment focus

12.10 Le petit fils de L.U. Chopard and Cie SA

Exhibit 139: Le petit fils de L.U. Chopard and Cie SA - Overview



Exhibit 140: Le petit fils de L.U. Chopard and Cie SA - Product / Service



Exhibit 141: Le petit fils de L.U. Chopard and Cie SA - Key offerings

12.11 LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE

Exhibit 142: LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE - Overview



Exhibit 143: LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE - Business segments



Exhibit 144: LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE - Key news



Exhibit 145: LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE - Key offerings



Exhibit 146: LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE - Segment focus

12.12 Movado Group Inc.

Exhibit 147: Movado Group Inc. - Overview



Exhibit 148: Movado Group Inc. - Business segments



Exhibit 149: Movado Group Inc. - Key offerings



Exhibit 150: Movado Group Inc. - Segment focus

12.13 Breitling SA

Exhibit 151: Breitling SA - Overview



Exhibit 152: Breitling SA - Product / Service



Exhibit 153: Breitling SA - Key offerings

12.14 Ralph Lauren Corp.

Exhibit 154: Ralph Lauren Corp. - Overview



Exhibit 155: Ralph Lauren Corp. - Business segments



Exhibit 156: Ralph Lauren Corp. - Key offerings



Exhibit 157: Ralph Lauren Corp. - Segment focus

12.15 Rolex SA

Exhibit 158: Rolex SA - Overview



Exhibit 159: Rolex SA - Product / Service



Exhibit 160: Rolex SA - Key offerings

12.16 Seiko Holdings Corp.

Exhibit 161: Seiko Holdings Corp. - Overview



Exhibit 162: Seiko Holdings Corp. - Business segments



Exhibit 163: Seiko Holdings Corp. - Key offerings



Exhibit 164: Seiko Holdings Corp. - Segment focus

12.17 The Swatch Group Ltd.

Exhibit 165: The Swatch Group Ltd. - Overview



Exhibit 166: The Swatch Group Ltd. - Business segments



Exhibit 167: The Swatch Group Ltd. - Key offerings



Exhibit 168: The Swatch Group Ltd. - Segment focus

13 Appendix

13.1 Scope of the report

13.2 Inclusions and exclusions checklist

Exhibit 169: Inclusions checklist



Exhibit 170: Exclusions checklist

13.3 Currency conversion rates for US$

Exhibit 171: Currency conversion rates for US$

13.4 Research methodology

Exhibit 172: Research methodology



Exhibit 173: Validation techniques employed for market sizing



Exhibit 174: Information sources

13.5 List of abbreviations

Exhibit 175: List of abbreviations

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SOURCE Technavio
THE TWO-DAY FESTIVAL RELEASES 2023 EARLY BIRD TICKETS

PHILADELPHIA, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- MADE IN AMERICA, the ground-breaking JAY-Z curated two-day music festival and staple of Labor Day Weekend, returns to Philadelphia Saturday, September 2nd and Sunday, September 3rd. Early bird tickets and VIP packages are now available on Miafest.lnk.to/EarlyBirdTix .

Made In America Returns to Benjamin Franklin Parkway on Saturday, September 2 & Sunday, September 3

"The Made In America festival has become synonymous with Labor Day Weekend. 2022 was an overwhelming success with our headliners, Bad Bunny and Tyler, the Creator, all the amazing talent on the line-up, and the positive energy from all our attendees," stated Desiree Perez, CEO, Roc Nation. "For 2023, we look forward to returning to the City Of Brotherly Love for another record-breaking year on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway."

The festival not only honors artists and music fans, but supports the community that has been its home for over a decade. Since the inaugural two-day concert in 2012, the event has generated over $180 million in economic impact for the city of Philadelphia. The festival's ever important Cause Village, which benefits organizations that are vital to accomplishing much needed positive work in Philadelphia and beyond, will also be returning.

Additional information and talent line up to be announced. Media can apply for credentials and join the press list here: https://forms.gle/4sio1iviHfQzdTYw5 . For the latest on the "Made In America" Festival visit www.madeinamericafest.com.

SOURCE ROC NATION
NEW YORK, April 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The marijuana market size is projected to grow by USD 48,197.88 million between 2022 and 2027, progressing at a CAGR of 24.86% during the forecast period, according to Technavio. North America will account for 90% of the market growth during the forecast period. Governments in the US and Canada have legalized the use of marijuana for medical purposes. Vendors operating in the region are introducing premium cannabis products such as pre-rolled joints, edibles, beverages, and bases to increase profit margins. Such factors are supporting the growth of the marijuana market in North America. For more insights on the historic data (2017 to 2021) and forecast market size (2023 to 2027)  Request a report sample

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Marijuana Market 2023-2027

Marijuana Market 2023-2027: Scope

Technavio presents a detailed picture of the market by the way of study, synthesis, and summation of data from multiple sources. Our marijuana market report covers the following areas:

Marijuana Market 2023-2027: Market Dynamics

Driver  The market is driven by the increasing legalization of marijuana. Governments across countries such as Australia , Canada , Chile , Greece , Israel , Italy , the Netherlands , Peru , and Uruguay are legalizing the use of marijuana for medical purposes. For instance, the increasing demand for medical marijuana in Australia has encouraged government authorities to increase funding for research. In June 2022 , Thailand legalized the cultivation of marijuana and its consumption in raw materials for foods and drinks. Such legalization efforts by several countries are driving the growth of the global marijuana market.

 The market is driven by the increasing legalization of marijuana. Governments across countries such as , , , , , , , , and are legalizing the use of marijuana for medical purposes. For instance, the increasing demand for medical marijuana in has encouraged government authorities to increase funding for research. In , legalized the cultivation of marijuana and its consumption in raw materials for foods and drinks. Such legalization efforts by several countries are driving the growth of the global marijuana market. Trend  The growth in the e-commerce industry is the key trend in the market. The increasing adoption of smartphones has made online shopping more convenient. This has encouraged many international e-commerce platforms to expand their operations across the world. The high adoption of online shopping has driven vendors to target the tech-savvy population and tap the growth potential in the new retail format. Taking business online is helping vendors reduce operational costs and overheads compared with physical stores. This trend is expected to have a positive influence on the growth of the market during the forecast period.

 The growth in the e-commerce industry is the key trend in the market. The increasing adoption of smartphones has made online shopping more convenient. This has encouraged many international e-commerce platforms to expand their operations across the world. The high adoption of online shopping has driven vendors to target the tech-savvy population and tap the growth potential in the new retail format. Taking business online is helping vendors reduce operational costs and overheads compared with physical stores. This trend is expected to have a positive influence on the growth of the market during the forecast period. Challenge  Side effects associated with the inappropriate use of medical marijuana will challenge the growth of the market. Marijuana consists of active ingredients known as cannabinoids and cannabidiol (CBD). In addition, medical marijuana contains other chemicals that may vary from plant to plant. This can cause various side effects, such as changes in mood, lack of coordination, increased appetite, and red eyes. Hence, it is important to consult a doctor before using medical marijuana.

Marijuana Market 2023-2027: Segmentation

The global marijuana market is segmented as below:

Product

Medical Marijuana



Recreational Marijuana

Type

Oil



Tinctures



Flower

Geography

North America



The U.S.





Canada



Europe



The U.K.





Germany





France





Rest of Europe



APAC



China





India



Middle East & Africa

&

South Africa





Rest of the Middle East & Africa

&

South America



Argentina





Brazil





Chile

Based on the product, the market will witness significant growth in the medical marijuana segment during the forecast period. The increasing popularity of medical marijuana as an alternative to traditional pain-relieving medications is the key factor driving the growth of the segment. Also, the number of adults with chronic pain in countries such as the US is fueling the growth of the segment.

Get a glance at the market contribution of various segments, historic data (2017 to 2021), and forecast market size (2023 to 2027) - Download a Sample Report

Marijuana Market 2023-2027: Vendor Analysis

The report provides a detailed analysis of around 25 vendors operating in the marijuana market, including some of the key vendors. Backed with competitive intelligence and benchmarking, our research report on the marijuana market is designed to provide entry support, customer profile, and M&As as well as go-to-market strategy support.

Aurora Cannabis Inc., Bhang Inc., Botanic Lab, Cannabinoid Creations, CBD American Shaman LLC, CV Sciences Inc., Elixinol Wellness Ltd., HEXO Corp., Jazz Pharmaceuticals Plc, Lexaria Bioscience Corp, MM Enterprises USA LLC, Organigram Holdings Inc., Unrivaled Brands Inc., Cannoid LLC, Canopy Growth Corp., Folium Biosciences, Medical Marijuana Inc., Tikun Olam, Tilray Brands Inc., and VIVO Cannabis Inc. are some of the major market participants.

Although the increasing legalization of marijuana will offer immense growth opportunities, side effects associated with the inappropriate use of medical marijuana will challenge the growth of the market participants. To make the most of the opportunities, market vendors should focus more on the growth prospects in the fast-growing segments, while maintaining their positions in the slow-growing segments.

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Marijuana Market 2023-2027: Key Highlights

CAGR of the market during the forecast period 2023-2027

Detailed information on factors that will assist marijuana market growth during the next five years

Estimation of the marijuana market size and its contribution to the parent market

Predictions on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior

The growth of the marijuana market

Analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information on vendors

Comprehensive details of factors that will challenge the growth of marijuana market vendors

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The CBD oil market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 27.63% between 2022 and 2027. The size of the market is forecast to increase by USD 5,361.32 million . The market is segmented by end-user (medical, personal use, pharmaceutical, and wellness), product (marijuana-derived CBD oil and hemp-derived CBD oil), and geography ( North America , South America , Europe , APAC, and Middle East and Africa ).

is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 27.63% between 2022 and 2027. The size of the market is forecast to increase by . The market is segmented by end-user (medical, personal use, pharmaceutical, and wellness), product (marijuana-derived CBD oil and hemp-derived CBD oil), and geography ( , , , APAC, and and ). The medical marijuana market size is expected to increase by USD 14.47 billion from 2021 to 2026, and the market's growth momentum will accelerate at a CAGR of 18.91%. The market is segmented by application (chronic pain, nausea, and others) and geography ( North America , Europe , APAC, South America , and Middle East and Africa ).

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Marijuana Market Scope Report Coverage Details Base year 2022 Historic period 2017-2021 Forecast period 2023-2027 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 24.86% Market growth 2023-2027 USD 48,197.88 million Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2022-2023 (%) 22.39 Regional analysis North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa Performing market contribution North America at 90% Key countries US, Canada, Australia, Germany, and UK Competitive landscape Leading Vendors, Market Positioning of Vendors, Competitive Strategies, and Industry Risks Key companies profiled Aurora Cannabis Inc., Bhang Inc., Botanic Lab, Cannabinoid Creations, CBD American Shaman LLC, CV Sciences Inc., Elixinol Wellness Ltd., HEXO Corp., Jazz Pharmaceuticals Plc, Lexaria Bioscience Corp, MM Enterprises USA LLC, Organigram Holdings Inc., Unrivaled Brands Inc., Cannoid LLC, Canopy Growth Corp., Folium Biosciences, Medical Marijuana Inc., Tikun Olam, Tilray Brands Inc., and VIVO Cannabis Inc. Market dynamics Parent market analysis, market growth inducers and obstacles, fast-growing and slow-growing segment analysis, COVID-19 impact and recovery analysis and future consumer dynamics, and market condition analysis for the forecast period. Customization purview If our report has not included the data that you are looking for, you can reach out to our analysts and get segments customized.

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Table of contents:

1 Executive Summary

1.1 Market overview

Exhibit 01: Executive Summary  Chart on Market Overview



Exhibit 02: Executive Summary  Data Table on Market Overview



Exhibit 03: Executive Summary  Chart on Global Market Characteristics



Exhibit 04: Executive Summary  Chart on Market by Geography



Exhibit 05: Executive Summary  Chart on Market Segmentation by Product



Exhibit 06: Executive Summary  Chart on Market Segmentation by Type



Exhibit 07: Executive Summary  Chart on Incremental Growth



Exhibit 08: Executive Summary  Data Table on Incremental Growth



Exhibit 09: Executive Summary  Chart on Vendor Market Positioning

2 Market Landscape

2.1 Market ecosystem

Exhibit 10: Parent market



Exhibit 11: Market Characteristics

3 Market Sizing

3.1 Market definition

Exhibit 12: Offerings of vendors included in the market definition

3.2 Market segment analysis

Exhibit 13: Market segments

3.3 Market size 2022

3.4 Market outlook: Forecast for 2022-2027

Exhibit 14: Chart on Global - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 15: Data Table on Global - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 16: Chart on Global Market: Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 17: Data Table on Global Market: Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

4 Historic Market Size

4.1 Global marijuana market 2017 - 2021

Exhibit 18: Historic Market Size  Data Table on Global marijuana market 2017 - 2021 ($ million)

4.2 Product Segment Analysis 2017 - 2021

Exhibit 19: Historic Market Size  Product Segment 2017 - 2021 ($ million)

4.3 Type Segment Analysis 2017 - 2021

Exhibit 20: Historic Market Size  Type Segment 2017 - 2021 ($ million)

4.4 Geography Segment Analysis 2017 - 2021

Exhibit 21: Historic Market Size  Geography Segment 2017 - 2021 ($ million)

4.5 Country Segment Analysis 2017 - 2021

Exhibit 22: Historic Market Size  Country Segment 2017 - 2021 ($ million)

5 Five Forces Analysis

5.1 Five forces summary

Exhibit 23: Five forces analysis - Comparison between 2022 and 2027

5.2 Bargaining power of buyers

Exhibit 24: Chart on Bargaining power of buyers  Impact of key factors 2022 and 2027

5.3 Bargaining power of suppliers

Exhibit 25: Bargaining power of suppliers  Impact of key factors in 2022 and 2027

5.4 Threat of new entrants

Exhibit 26: Threat of new entrants  Impact of key factors in 2022 and 2027

5.5 Threat of substitutes

Exhibit 27: Threat of substitutes  Impact of key factors in 2022 and 2027

5.6 Threat of rivalry

Exhibit 28: Threat of rivalry  Impact of key factors in 2022 and 2027

5.7 Market condition

Exhibit 29: Chart on Market condition - Five forces 2022 and 2027

6 Market Segmentation by Product

6.1 Market segments

Exhibit 30: Chart on Product - Market share 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 31: Data Table on Product - Market share 2022-2027 (%)

6.2 Comparison by Product

Exhibit 32: Chart on Comparison by Product



Exhibit 33: Data Table on Comparison by Product

6.3 Medical marijuana - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 34: Chart on Medical marijuana - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 35: Data Table on Medical marijuana - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 36: Chart on Medical marijuana - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 37: Data Table on Medical marijuana - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

6.4 Recreational marijuana - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 38: Chart on Recreational marijuana - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 39: Data Table on Recreational marijuana - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 40: Chart on Recreational marijuana - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 41: Data Table on Recreational marijuana - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

6.5 Market opportunity by Product

Exhibit 42: Market opportunity by Product ($ million)



Exhibit 43: Data Table on Market opportunity by Product ($ million)

7 Market Segmentation by Type

7.1 Market segments

Exhibit 44: Chart on Type - Market share 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 45: Data Table on Type - Market share 2022-2027 (%)

7.2 Comparison by Type

Exhibit 46: Chart on Comparison by Type



Exhibit 47: Data Table on Comparison by Type

7.3 Oil and tinctures - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 48: Chart on Oil and tinctures - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 49: Data Table on Oil and tinctures - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 50: Chart on Oil and tinctures - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 51: Data Table on Oil and tinctures - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

7.4 Flower - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 52: Chart on Flower - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 53: Data Table on Flower - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 54: Chart on Flower - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 55: Data Table on Flower - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

7.5 Market opportunity by Type

Exhibit 56: Market opportunity by Type ($ million)



Exhibit 57: Data Table on Market opportunity by Type ($ million)

8 Customer Landscape

8.1 Customer landscape overview

Exhibit 58: Analysis of price sensitivity, lifecycle, customer purchase basket, adoption rates, and purchase criteria

9 Geographic Landscape

9.1 Geographic segmentation

Exhibit 59: Chart on Market share by geography 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 60: Data Table on Market share by geography 2022-2027 (%)

9.2 Geographic comparison

Exhibit 61: Chart on Geographic comparison



Exhibit 62: Data Table on Geographic comparison

9.3 North America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 63: Chart on North America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 64: Data Table on North America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 65: Chart on North America - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

Exhibit 66: Data Table on North America - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.4 Europe - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 67: Chart on Europe - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 68: Data Table on Europe - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 69: Chart on Europe - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

Exhibit 70: Data Table on Europe - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.5 APAC - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 71: Chart on APAC - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 72: Data Table on APAC - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 73: Chart on APAC - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 74: Data Table on APAC - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.6 South America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 75: Chart on South America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 76: Data Table on South America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 77: Chart on South America - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

Exhibit 78: Data Table on South America - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.7 Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

and - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 79: Chart on Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

and - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 80: Data Table on Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

and - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 81: Chart on Middle East and Africa - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

and - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

Exhibit 82: Data Table on Middle East and Africa - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.8 US - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 83: Chart on US - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 84: Data Table on US - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 85: Chart on US - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 86: Data Table on US - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.9 Canada - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 87: Chart on Canada - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 88: Data Table on Canada - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 89: Chart on Canada - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

Exhibit 90: Data Table on Canada - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.10 Germany - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 91: Chart on Germany - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 92: Data Table on Germany - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 93: Chart on Germany - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

Exhibit 94: Data Table on Germany - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.11 Australia - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 Exhibit 95: Chart on Australia - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 96: Data Table on Australia - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

- Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)

Exhibit 97: Chart on Australia - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

- Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

Exhibit 98: Data Table on Australia - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.12 UK - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

Exhibit 99: Chart on UK - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 100: Data Table on UK - Market size and forecast 2022-2027 ($ million)



Exhibit 101: Chart on UK - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)



Exhibit 102: Data Table on UK - Year-over-year growth 2022-2027 (%)

9.13 Market opportunity by geography

Exhibit 103: Market opportunity by geography ($ million)



Exhibit 104: Data Tables on Market opportunity by geography ($ million)

10 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends

10.1 Market drivers

10.2 Market challenges

10.3 Impact of drivers and challenges

Exhibit 105: Impact of drivers and challenges in 2022 and 2027

10.4 Market trends

11 Vendor Landscape

11.1 Overview

11.2 Vendor landscape

Exhibit 106: Overview on Criticality of inputs and Factors of differentiation

11.3 Landscape disruption

Exhibit 107: Overview on factors of disruption

11.4 Industry risks

Exhibit 108: Impact of key risks on business

12 Vendor Analysis

12.1 Vendors covered

Exhibit 109: Vendors covered

12.2 Market positioning of vendors

Exhibit 110: Matrix on vendor position and classification

12.3 Aurora Cannabis Inc.

Exhibit 111: Aurora Cannabis Inc. - Overview



Exhibit 112: Aurora Cannabis Inc. - Business segments



Exhibit 113: Aurora Cannabis Inc. - Key offerings



Exhibit 114: Aurora Cannabis Inc. - Segment focus

12.4 Bhang Inc.

Exhibit 115: Bhang Inc. - Overview



Exhibit 116: Bhang Inc. - Product / Service



Exhibit 117: Bhang Inc. - Key offerings

12.5 Cannoid LLC

Exhibit 118: Cannoid LLC - Overview



Exhibit 119: Cannoid LLC - Product / Service



Exhibit 120: Cannoid LLC - Key offerings

12.6 Canopy Growth Corp.

Exhibit 121: Canopy Growth Corp. - Overview



Exhibit 122: Canopy Growth Corp. - Business segments



Exhibit 123: Canopy Growth Corp. - Key news



Exhibit 124: Canopy Growth Corp. - Key offerings



Exhibit 125: Canopy Growth Corp. - Segment focus

12.7 CBD American Shaman LLC

Exhibit 126: CBD American Shaman LLC - Overview



Exhibit 127: CBD American Shaman LLC - Product / Service



Exhibit 128: CBD American Shaman LLC - Key offerings

12.8 CV Sciences Inc.

Exhibit 129: CV Sciences Inc. - Overview



Exhibit 130: CV Sciences Inc. - Business segments



Exhibit 131: CV Sciences Inc. - Key offerings



Exhibit 132: CV Sciences Inc. - Segment focus

12.9 Elixinol Wellness Ltd.

Exhibit 133: Elixinol Wellness Ltd. - Overview



Exhibit 134: Elixinol Wellness Ltd. - Business segments



Exhibit 135: Elixinol Wellness Ltd. - Key offerings



Exhibit 136: Elixinol Wellness Ltd. - Segment focus

12.10 Jazz Pharmaceuticals Plc

Exhibit 137: Jazz Pharmaceuticals Plc - Overview



Exhibit 138: Jazz Pharmaceuticals Plc - Product / Service



Exhibit 139: Jazz Pharmaceuticals Plc - Key news



Exhibit 140: Jazz Pharmaceuticals Plc - Key offerings

12.11 Lexaria Bioscience Corp

Exhibit 141: Lexaria Bioscience Corp - Overview



Exhibit 142: Lexaria Bioscience Corp - Business segments



Exhibit 143: Lexaria Bioscience Corp - Key offerings



Exhibit 144: Lexaria Bioscience Corp - Segment focus

12.12 Medical Marijuana Inc.

Exhibit 145: Medical Marijuana Inc. - Overview



Exhibit 146: Medical Marijuana Inc. - Product / Service



Exhibit 147: Medical Marijuana Inc. - Key offerings

12.13 MM Enterprises USA LLC

LLC Exhibit 148: MM Enterprises USA LLC - Overview

LLC - Overview

Exhibit 149: MM Enterprises USA LLC - Product / Service

LLC - Product / Service

Exhibit 150: MM Enterprises USA LLC - Key offerings

12.14 Organigram Holdings Inc.

Exhibit 151: Organigram Holdings Inc. - Overview



Exhibit 152: Organigram Holdings Inc. - Product / Service



Exhibit 153: Organigram Holdings Inc. - Key offerings

12.15 Tikun Olam

Exhibit 154: Tikun Olam - Overview



Exhibit 155: Tikun Olam - Product / Service



Exhibit 156: Tikun Olam - Key offerings

12.16 Tilray Brands Inc.

Exhibit 157: Tilray Brands Inc. - Overview



Exhibit 158: Tilray Brands Inc. - Business segments



Exhibit 159: Tilray Brands Inc. - Key offerings



Exhibit 160: Tilray Brands Inc. - Segment focus

12.17 VIVO Cannabis Inc.

Exhibit 161: VIVO Cannabis Inc. - Overview



Exhibit 162: VIVO Cannabis Inc. - Business segments



Exhibit 163: VIVO Cannabis Inc. - Key offerings



Exhibit 164: VIVO Cannabis Inc. - Segment focus

13 Appendix

13.1 Scope of the report

13.2 Inclusions and exclusions checklist

Exhibit 165: Inclusions checklist



Exhibit 166: Exclusions checklist

13.3 Currency conversion rates for US$

Exhibit 167: Currency conversion rates for US$

13.4 Research methodology

Exhibit 168: Research methodology



Exhibit 169: Validation techniques employed for market sizing



Exhibit 170: Information sources

13.5 List of abbreviations

Exhibit 171: List of abbreviations

About Us

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

Contact

Technavio Research

Jesse Maida

Media & Marketing Executive

US: +1 844 364 1100

UK: +44 203 893 3200

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.technavio.com/

SOURCE Technavio
Details added: first version posted on 13:11

BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. Smuggling of drugs from Iran to Azerbaijan was prevented in the official area of the Goytapa border detachment service of the State Border Guard Troops on April 13 at 23:50 (GMT+4), the State Border Service of Azerbaijan told Trend.

According to the service, as a result of the operational measures taken, a resident of the Shamkir district Vugar Gurbanov, born in 1982, was detained.

During the search, two bundles of drugs with a total weight of 20.4 kilograms were found and seized from him.

Operational and investigative measures on the given fact are ongoing, added the service.

Previously, as a result of joint activities of employees of the State Border Service and the State Customs Committee of Azerbaijan, on April 5, the smuggling of narcotic drugs with a total weight of 11.3 kilograms and 1000 tablets of psychotropic substances (methadone M-40) into the country from Iran has been averted on the official territory of the Horadiz border detachment.
LOS ANGELES, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Scientology Network's MEET A SCIENTOLOGIST, the weekly series spotlighting the everyday lives of Scientologists from around the world and all walks of life, announces an episode on artisanal bread-maker Marni Atherton, premiering April 18, 2023.

MEET A SCIENTOLOGIST airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Scientology Network.

Marni Atherton cashed in a career on Wall Street to follow her artistic ambitions and wound up rolling in dough, expressing her creativity as a baker. Marni combines old-world ingredients and techniques with 21st-century science to make artisanal, handcrafted breads that are winning over bread lovers everywhere.

ABOUT MARNI ATHERTON

After working 15 years in the securities trade, Marni Atherton was looking for a changesomething that would allow her to flourish creatively. Inspired by her lifelong love of baking, she quickly warmed up to the idea of making it her profession. After extensively researching the best ingredients and old-world baking techniques, she started rolling out artisanal breads that were as healthy as they were delicious. Approaching the process of ingredient selection like that of composing a great song, where all the notes are perfectly harmonized, she soon had a chorus of loyal followers singing the praises of her top-quality exotic breads. Today her company, 20 Shekels Bread, is a thriving bakery in Clearwater, Florida, while also taking a slice out of the national bread market via their online shop.

The Scientology Network debuted on March 12, 2018. Since launching, the Scientology Network has been viewed in over 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages. Satisfying the curiosity of people about Scientology, the network takes viewers across six continents, spotlighting the everyday lives of Scientologists, showing the Church as a global organization, and presenting its social betterment programs that have touched the lives of millions worldwide. The network also showcases documentaries by independent filmmakers who represent a cross-section of cultures and faiths, but share a common purpose of uplifting communities.

Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV Channel 320, DIRECTV STREAM, AT&T U-verse and can be streamed at scientology.tv, on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

CONTACT:

Media Relations

[email protected]

SOURCE Church of Scientology International
Project designed to enhance service reliability for rural customers

READING, Pa., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Met-Ed, a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp. (NYSE: FE), is upgrading its electric grid in southern York County, Pennsylvania, to help prevent service disruptions, particularly during severe weather. The work includes converting an existing power line along New Park Road in Fawn Township to a higher voltage to enhance the reliability of electric service for rural customers.

The upgrades are part of Met-Ed's Long Term Infrastructure Improvement Plan, a $153 million initiative to accelerate capital investments to the company's electric grid over five years to help ensure continued electric service reliability for customers.

"We are rebuilding a 2.5-mile section of an existing power line to operate at a higher voltage," said Scott Wyman, president of FirstEnergy's Pennsylvania Operations. "This is an older line that has been repaired many times, and the work includes stringing larger wire, replacing and adding numerous wood utility poles and cross arms and installing new transformers. The project should help enhance local grid performance, particularly during hot humid summer weather when our customers in the New Park and Gatchellville areas crank up their air conditioners to stay cool."

Crews are expected later this spring to replace 38 poles. They also plan to set an additional 27 new poles along the line to shorten the distance of wire between poles to reduce sagging and maintain necessary clearances. Crews will install more than 100 cross arms and 12 new transformers as they hang new wire.

A device enabled with supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) technology will be placed at a key spot on the line. SCADA conveys real-time information about voltage and electric current conditions to distribution system operators. Based on conditions, operators can control the device remotely to quickly isolate damage and transfer customer load to a different source, helping to keep the lights on for customers when problems such as vehicles damaging poles or tree-related outages occur.

The project will start at Met-Ed's distribution substation near the intersection of Woolen Mill and New Park roads, progress northeast along New Park Road and end near Stoney Lane just south of Gatchellville. Step transformers will be placed on a platform near Stoney Lane to reduce voltage, beyond which point the line will continue at its original lower voltage.

Scheduled for completion by the end of 2023, the project will result in much of the local electric network operating at 13,200 volts  enabling Met-Ed to better meet the area's current and future electrical needs. Met-Ed will eliminate the distribution substation near New Park Road when the project is complete because it will no longer be needed to reduce voltage.

Met-Ed serves approximately 587,000 customers within 3,300 square miles of eastern and southeastern Pennsylvania. Follow Met-Ed on Twitter @Met Ed and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MetEdElectric.

FirstEnergy is dedicated to integrity, safety, reliability and operational excellence. Its 10 electric distribution companies form one of the nation's largest investor-owned electric systems, serving customers in Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, West Virginia, Maryland and New York. The company's transmission subsidiaries operate approximately 24,000 miles of transmission lines that connect the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions. Follow FirstEnergy online at www.firstenergycorp.com and on Twitter @FirstEnergyCorp .

Editor's Note: A photo of line workers replacing a utility pole and cross arms is available on Flickr.

SOURCE FirstEnergy Corp.
DUBLIN, April 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Middle East Data Center Construction Market - Industry Outlook & Forecast 2023-2028" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The Middle East data center construction market is expected to growi at a CAGR of 7.59% during 2022 to 2028.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

UAE and Saudi Arabia are the major contributors to the capacity in the Middle East data center construction market, with around 30% and 27%, and the market in these countries is expected to skyrocket in four to five years due to the shift of the oil economy to the digital economy in the region. Other factors include the continuous increase in investments in cloud-based services and smart city developments in the UAE and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia .

are the major contributors to the capacity in the data center construction market, with around 30% and 27%, and the market in these countries is expected to skyrocket in four to five years due to the shift of the oil economy to the digital economy in the region. Other factors include the continuous increase in investments in cloud-based services and smart city developments in the UAE and . Digitalization across businesses will increase data center investments by colocation, cloud, Internet, and telecommunication providers. Some telecom companies such as Ericsson, stc, Turk Telecom, Cellcom, Zain, Nokia, Vodafone, Ooredoo, du, and Omantel are responsible for deploying and introducing 5G services in Middle Eastern countries.

The presence of industrial parks, the availability of land, and the government's support motivate data center operators to develop data centers in Middle Eastern countries. For instance, the Government of Bahrain announced the launching of its first data center park, which includes the development of its first data center by stc Bahrain through collaboration with the ministry of transport and Telecommunications.

MARKET TRENDS & DRIVERS

Rise in the Procurement of Renewable Energy Sources

The Middle East has an abundance of availability of solar energy, where most of the countries in the region are undertaking renewable energy strategies & visions to develop renewable energy projects and meet the carbon-neutral goals set by respective governments in the region.

a) In the UAE, the Energy Strategy 2050 aims to increase the share of renewable energy from 25% to 50% in the total energy mix by 2050.

b) Saudi Arabia has launched The National Renewable Energy Program (NREP) under Vision 2030, where 13 projects will generate over 4.8 GW of renewable energy. In addition, Bahrain plans to generate around 280 MW of electricity from renewable sources by 2025, increasing to around 700 MW by 2030 to attain national renewable energy targets.

In December 2022 , Saudi Arabia announced the development of 10 renewable energy projects with a power capacity of 7 GW, which is part of the Kingdom's 2030 Vision.

, announced the development of 10 renewable energy projects with a power capacity of 7 GW, which is part of the Kingdom's 2030 Vision. In February 2022 , Quantum Switch Tamasuk (QST) signed a deal with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) Saudi Arabia to develop data center facilities in Saudi Arabia . Additionally, both parties will collaborate to secure and develop renewable energy sources to power their facilities.

Increasing Cloud Investments



The increase in digitalization and the shift of workloads to cloud platforms from on-premises facilities to make their operations more efficient and scalable witnessed the increase in investments by cloud service providers in the Middle East over the last few years.

Amazon Web Services aims to develop the infrastructure region in Tel Aviv, Israel , which will likely be operational in 2023.

, which will likely be operational in 2023. In 2022, Google Cloud launched its first local cloud region in Israel . Amazon outpost cloud services were deployed for the first time in Oman in the Oman Data Park, and Microsoft Azure established its first global data center region in Qatar .

SEGMENTATION INSIGHTS

Most facilities are being developed to operate at a PUE of less than 1.5. In contrast, few facilities in countries like Turkey that adopt partial free cooling during peak winters aim to operate at a PUE of less than 1.3.

that adopt partial free cooling during peak winters aim to operate at a PUE of less than 1.3. In the Middle East data center construction market, the investment in cooling infrastructure contributes to the major share of more than 50% in the mechanical infrastructure due to the high temperature in some countries during the peak summers.

data center construction market, the investment in cooling infrastructure contributes to the major share of more than 50% in the mechanical infrastructure due to the high temperature in some countries during the peak summers. The region witnessed growth in the deployment of data centers in Tier III and Tier IV certification in the design phase/construction phase of the region. In contrast, most private and public entities (BFSI, education, government) have received Uptime Institute's Tier III/IV certification during the design phase or for the constructed facility.

Infrastructure

Electrical Infrastructure

Mechanical Infrastructure

General Construction

Electrical Infrastructure

UPS Systems

Generators

Transfer Switches & Switchgear

PDUs

Other Electrical Infrastructure

Mechanical Infrastructure

Cooling Systems

Racks

Other Mechanical Infrastructure

Cooling Systems

CRAC and CRAH Units

Chillers Units

Cooling Towers, Condensers, and Dry Coolers

Economizers & Evaporative Coolers

Other Cooling Units

Cooling Techniques

Air-Based Cooling

Liquid-Based Cooling

General Construction

Core & Shell Development

Installation & Commissioning Services

Engineering & Building Design

Fire Detection & Suppression

Physical Security

DCIM/BMS Solutions

Tier Standard

Tier I & Tier II

Tier III

Tier IV

GEOGRAPHICAL ANALYSIS

UAE dominates the regional industry in terms of data center developments. In addition, Saudi Arabia , Israel , and Oman are among the major contributors to high data center development activities in the Middle East . Qatar , Bahrain , and Kuwait are emerging markets that witness significant growth as a result of digitalization and growth in connectivity.

, , and are among the major contributors to high data center development activities in the . , , and are emerging markets that witness significant growth as a result of digitalization and growth in connectivity. In the Middle East data center construction market, the presence of smart cities in the region also drives investments. For instance, the NEOM project in Saudi Arabia is under development as a part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030, which will also comprise the data center development under a joint venture firm ZeroPoint DC.

Geography

UAE

Saudi Arabia

Israel

Oman

Qatar

Kuwait

Jordan

Bahrain

Other Middle Eastern Countries

KEY MARKET PARTICIPANT INITIATIVES

The surge in data center activities across the country will be a major source of revenue for construction contractors. Some prominent local and global construction contractors in the Middle East data center construction market include AECOM, Laing O'Rourke , Dar Group, AlDar Properties, Mercury Engineering, Deerns, Anel Group, ENMAR Engineering, Arup, DC Pro Engineering, Edarat, HHM Building Contracting, and Red Engineering. For instance, Laing O'Rourke is selected by Khazna Data Centres to design and build a facility and office space in Dubai Design District.

Prominent Data Center Support Infrastructure

ABB

Airedale

Alfa Laval

Canovate

Caterpillar

Cummins

Delta Electronics

EAE Group

EATON

Envicool

HITEC Power Protection

Johnson Controls

Legrand

Rittal

Rolls-Royce

Schneider Electric

Siemens

STULZ

Vertiv

Prominent Data Center Construction Contractors

AECOM

AlDar Properties

Anel Group

Arup

Ashi & Bushnag

Atkins

Dar Group

DC Pro Engineering

Deerns

Edarat

EGEC

ENMAR Engineering

Harinsa Qatar (HQ)

HATCO

HHM Building Contracting

Hill International

ICS Nett

INT'LTEC

ISG

Laing O'Rourke

Linesight

M+W Group (Exyte)

Mace

Mercury Engineering

McLaren Construction Group

MIS

NDA Group

Prota Engineering

Qatar Site & Power

RED Engineering

RW Armstrong

Sudlows

Telal Engineering & Contracting

Turner & Townsend

Prominent Data Center Investors

Adgar Investments and Development

Amazon Web Services (AWS)

Batelco

Bynet Data Communications

Equinix

EdgeConneX

Future Digital Data Systems (FDDS)

Gulf Data Hub

Google

Khazna Data Centers

Moro Hub

MedOne

MEEZA

Mobily

Microsoft

Oman Data Park

Ooredoo

stc

Turkcell

Turk Telekom

Telehouse

Tencent Cloud

New Entrants

Compass Datacenters

Digital Realty

Infinity

EDGNEX

Global Technical Realty

Quantum Switch

ZeroPoint DC

Serverfarm

KEY QUESTIONS ANSWERED:



1. How big is the Middle East data center construction market?

2. What is the growth rate of the Middle East data center construction market?

3. What factors drive the Middle East data center construction market growth?

4. What is the estimated market size in terms of area in the Middle East data center construction market by 2028?

5. Who are the new entrants in the Middle East data center construction market?

6. How many MW of power capacity is expected to reach the Middle East data center construction market by 2028?





Key Topics Covered:



1 Research Methodology



2 Research Objectives



3 Research Process



4 Scope & Coverage



5 Report Assumptions & Caveats



6 Premium Insights



7 Market at a Glance



8 Introduction



9 Market Opportunities & Trends

9.1 Rising Adoption of Renewable Energy Sources

9.2 Increase in 5G Deployments Fueling Edge Data Center Investments

9.3 Deployment of Submarine Cables and Inland Connectivity

9.4 Smart City Initiatives Driving Data Center Investments

9.5 Increase in Ai Adoption



10 Market Growth Enablers

10.1 Cloud Adoption Driving Data Center Investments

10.2 IoT & Big Data Fueling Data Center Investments

10.3 On-Premises Infrastructure Migrating to Colocation & Managed Services

10.4 Deployment of Modular Data Centers



11 Market Restraints

11.1 Security Challenges in Data Centers

11.2 Dearth of Skilled Workforce

11.3 Location Constraints on the Development of Data Centers

11.4 Supply Chain Disruptions in Data Centers



12 Market Landscape



13 Infrastructure



14 Electrical Infrastructure



15 Mechanical Infrastructure



16 Cooling Systems



17 Cooling Technique



18 General Construction



19 Tier Standards



20 Geography



21 Uae



22 Saudi Arabia



23 Israel



24 Oman



25 Qatar



26 Kuwait



27 Jordan



28 Bahrain



29 Other Middle Eastern Countries



30 Competitive Landscape



31 Prominent Data Center Support Infrastructure Providers



32 Prominent Data Center Construction Contractors



33 Prominent Data Center Investors



34 New Entrants



35 Report Summary



36 Quantitative Summary

37 Appendix



For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/vj1xft

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
Third Annual Spring Market at Hutton Brickyards in Kingston, NY Spotlights 250+ Makers, Live Music, Local Fare & More

NEW YORK, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Field + Supply, renowned, modern maker fair, today announced its Spring MRKT will return to Hutton Brickyards in Kingston, New York May 26-28, 2023. Founded by award-winning interior designer Brad Ford, Field + Supply is a favorite among savvy shoppers with new experiences in store for the design industry and a plethora of apparel brands for fashion enthusiasts.

Field + Supply Spring MRKT, Hutton Brickyards, Kington, NY, May 26-28, 2023

Featuring a carefully curated selection of artisans who will display and sell their collections, the three-day event will showcase more than 250 vendors. A wide array of product categories spanning home design, fashion, ceramics, textiles, art, decorative accessories, candles, jewelry, beauty/wellness, kids, pets, and epicurean will be available to experience and purchase.

Field + Supply's mission is to connect a global community with artisans who are stewards of traditional craftsmanship and artistic processes. Among the featured vendors, the Spring MRKT will showcase the most apparel brands yet, nearly 50, many of which are crafted from sustainable materials throughout the Hudson Valley, including:

Ariana Bohling, Artemesia, Beach Hare, Blinded by Color Project, cmotastudio, Correll Correll, DEGEN, Eleven Six, Eolas, Fahari Wambura, Farewell Frances, Frances Grey, GRAMMAR, Hand Knit by Xoli, Herself Clothing, Hollander & Lexer, IMMODEST COTTON, Indi + Ash, Kordal Studio, Lacson Ravello, M.PATMos, Mohinders, My Dear Tejas, Namai, Neelah Cashmere, Nikki Chasin, Ophelia & Indigo, Proche, Rivay, Road to Nowhere Clothing, Sabah Shoes, SantM, Sakaya Davis, Simulacra, Slow Process, So Lucky Fish, Steven Alan, Tales of Us Design, Thank You Have a Good Day, The Falls, The Highlands Foundry, Tintoreria Maria Romero, Umber & Ochre, Upstate of Mind Quality, UQNATU, Utility Canvas, West Rock Apparel Co., Yamma and more.

New for 2023, Field + Supply is introducing the F+S Trade Lounge, a special program for members of the design trade and retailers who are looking to discover new collections and products. F+S is inviting interior designers, architects, builders, and retailers to register in advance to enjoy access to a dedicated lounge area complete with meeting space and charging stations, as well as a welcome tote, and a complete list of F+S vendors who sell wholesale or offer customized products and services to meet the needs of design professionals.

F+S Spring MRKT will also feature a robust lineup of live music, creating a perfect backdrop for guests to soak in the beautiful surroundings while sampling food from local purveyors, along with a selection of craft beer and cocktails. Local musical artists include Jay Psaros, Dub Apocalypse, and Ladies & Gentlemen, among others.

Single, two-day, and three-day passes start at $20 and are available for purchase at fieldandsupply.com. Guests can experience Field + Supply from 10:00 am  6:00 pm each day Friday, May 26 through Sunday, May 28, 2023, at Hutton Brickyards in Kingston, New York.

If you're unable to attend in person, a selection of goods are available for purchase online. To learn more, visit fieldandsupply.com and @fieldandsupply on Instagram and TikTok.

About Field + Supply: Field + Supply began in 2014, as a modern interpretation of a traditional arts and crafts fair. Founded by award-winning interior designer Brad Ford, Field + Supply consists of a carefully curated selection of makershighlighting goods from a variety of studios and workshops representing a wide range of product categories. Field + Supply's mission is to connect a global community with the artisans and makers who are stewards of traditional craftsmanship and artistic processes. This multi-day experience draws visitors and makers from local, national, and international locales, and has grown to include local food purveyors, live music, interactive activations, and a host of celebratory events with designers and makers over the course of the weekend. Now in its seventh year, Field + Supply is traditionally held twice annuallyin Spring and Fallat the scenic Hutton Brickyards, located on the banks of the Hudson River in Kingston, NY.

SOURCE Brad Ford ID
NEW YORK, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- AXA XL Insurance welcomes Molly Hunter as the newest member of its Client Relationship Management team in the Americas. Ms. Hunter joins as Client Relationship Leader for the West Zone, assuming the role previously held by Steve Sanford, who is retiring. She will report to James Martin, Head of Client Management & Business Development for the Americas.

Commenting on the appointment, Mr. Martin said: "We're delighted to bolster our resources within the Client Management Team, especially with such an experienced and talented professional as Molly. Our clients are dealing with some big issues and it's imperative that we're in close contact to deliver optimal solutions now and stay ahead of their future risk management needs. Having a seasoned relationship leader like Molly join us truly demonstrates our deep commitment to clients and to growth across the Americas Region and will help us deliver on our promise of partnership in addressing our clients' most complex risks."

According to Bob Peretti, Chief Distribution Officer for the Americas said, "After more than 40 years in the insurance industry and a dozen years here, Steve is embarking on a well-earned retirement. He's done a tremendous job helping us build out our regional business in the West and we're excited to attract industry talent like Molly to assume Steve's role to continue the momentum."

Mike Soper, Head of AXA XL's West Zone, commented: "We are excited with the addition of Molly to the West Zone and fortunate to have such a talented and experienced new team member contributing to our continued growth in the West."

In her new role, Ms. Hunter will be a key contact and access point for AXA XL's clients throughout the Western United States. Based in Seattle, she will be responsible for regional client management, sales and distribution across all AXA XL insurance lines, working closely with clients to build multi-line insurance programs for businesses across industries.

Ms. Hunter joins AXA XL from Everest Insurance where she served as Vice President of Sales and Distribution. With more than 20 years of insurance industry experience, Ms. Hunter's career also includes business development and broker positions with Zurich, AIG and Marsh.

Follow AXA XL on LinkedIn.

ABOUT AXA XL AXA XL, the property & casualty and specialty risk division of AXA, provides insurance and risk management products and services for mid-sized companies through to large multinationals, and reinsurance solutions to insurance companies globally. We partner with those who move the world forward. To learn more, visit www.axaxl.com ABOUT AXA XL INSURANCE AXA XL Insurance offers property, casualty, professional, financial lines and specialty insurance solutions to mid-sized companies through to large multinationals globally. We partner with those who move the world forward. To learn more, visit www.axaxl.com

SOURCE AXA XL
NEW YORK, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The motor monitoring market is projected to generate USD 3,916 million by 2030, advancing at a CAGR of 7.9%, according to P&S Intelligence.

This can be ascribed to the increasing need for prognostic maintenance and the fact that the procedure can be advanced with appropriate analytics. The substantial damage that can be triggered by the failure of even one motor in a factory makes users focus on electric motor monitoring.

Get the sample pages of this report: https://www.psmarketresearch.com/market-analysis/motor-monitoring-market/report-sample

Software Is Mostly Installed On Premises

In 2022, on the basis of deployment, the on-premises category led the industry with a 68% share. The conservative technique for integrating motor monitoring solutions throughout an organization is on-site computers and servers.

Industrial users majorly select on-premises solutions as they permit control over the information and guarantee its confidentiality. Other benefits of on-premises software are better-quality system supervision and less dependence on external elements, such as networks, as the hardware, information, and software are managed by the company that owns it.

Oil & Gas Sector To Experience Considerable Growth in Solution Demand

In the coming years, the oil & gas category is set to witness significant growth, of 8.4%. Oil and gas companies employ some of the most-complicated and critical industrial production machines.

Additionally, there can be significant economic and environmental consequences as a result of a loosening, misalignment, wear, or disbalance in the bearing.

Induction motors are a major machine in the oil and gas industry because of their flexibility and robustness. They play a vital role in offering rotational energy, which several different systems, both small and big, within an oil or gas refinery require.

Severe Guidelines and Energy Audits by Governments Worldwide

Several governments have established power standards, which oversee the energy utilization of electrical equipment. Motor screening provides systematic methods for lessening safety worries, optimizing prices, and advancing industrial systems' function and maintenance. It also helps in taking decisions about the power mix, energy efficiency, and supply.

Solution Demand in APAC Is Projected To Witness Fastest Market Growth

Because of the extensive industrialization in countries such as India and China, the Asia-Pacific region is projected to witness a market growth of 8.8% in the coming few years.

Browse detailed report on Motor Monitoring Market Share, Growth, Development and Demand Forecast to 2030

One of the main sectors in India in terms of its contribution to the GDP is manufacturing. Making India profitable for domestic and international companies and uplifting its economy to a worldwide scale are the aims of the government's Make in India program. Additionally, the nation's manufacturing sector is projected to be worth approximately USD 1,100 billion by the end of 2023.

Motor Monitoring Market Segmentation Coverage in the Report

Motor Monitoring Market by Offering

Hardware

Software

Services

Motor Monitoring Market by Deployment

On-premise

Cloud

Motor Monitoring Market by Monitoring Process

Online

Offline/Portable

Motor Monitoring Market by End user

Automotive

Oil & Gas

Metals & Mining

Power Generation

Water & Wastewater Treatment

Food & Beverages

Chemicals

Browse More Reports Published by P&S

Electric Motors Market Growth, Development and Demand Forecast to 2030

Piezoelectric Devices Market Growth, Development and Future Analysis

Electric Traction Motor Market Share, Growth, and Demand Forecast to 2030

Machine Condition Monitoring Equipment Market Share, Growth, Development and Forecast Report, 2030

About P&S Intelligence

P&S Intelligence provides market research and consulting services to a vast array of industries across the world. As an enterprising research and consulting company, P&S believes in providing thorough insights on the ever-changing market scenario, to empower companies to make informed decisions and base their business strategies with astuteness. P&S keeps the interest of its clients at heart, which is why the insights we provide are both honest and accurate. Our long list of satisfied clients includes entry-level firms as well as multi-million-dollar businesses and government agencies.

Contact:

Prajneesh Kumar

P&S Intelligence

Phone: +1-347-960-6455

Email: [email protected]

Web: https://www.psmarketresearch.com

Follow Us: LinkedIn Twitter

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1224988/P_and_S_Intelligence_Logo.jpg

SOURCE P&S Intelligence
MY SALON Suite Exhibiting at the 2023 Multi-Unit Franchising Conference

CARROLLTON, Texas, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- MY SALON Suite , a salon suite franchise focused on providing stylists and beauticians a personal space to build their business and the beauty industry's future, will be exhibiting at the upcoming 23rd annual Multi-Unit Franchising Conference at Caesars Forum in Las Vegas on April 25  28, 2023 (Booth #1021) and hosting a private dinner with limited seating for qualified candidates. The annual conference is the premier event targeting multi-unit franchisees in the food, hospitality, retail and personal care service sectors such as hair, massage, botox, etc.

"As MY SALON Suite targets nationwide expansion, the Multi-Unit conference is the ideal place to showcase our franchise opportunities and connect with established franchisees," said Mark Jameson, chief development officer. "MY SALON Suite's semi-absentee model, with no on-site employees, is ideal for multi-unit and multi-brand franchisees looking to diversify their portfolio. Following a year of record growth for the brand, we look forward to continuing to open in new markets across the country."

MY SALON Suite is currently seeking qualified franchisees with a focus on existing multi-unit franchisees. The semi-absentee model offers franchise owners the opportunity to expand and diversify while focusing their attention on other areas. MY SALON Suite is continuing expansion following a record year for the brand, which opened 42 franchise locations in 2022 to reach a milestone of over 265 locations, with plans to continue to grow the brand both domestically and internationally this year.

"When we were initially looking to diversify, we wanted something that was less employee driven but very impactful, and that's why we loved the MY SALON Suite model," said Aaron Gillaspie, MY SALON Suite franchisee with 17 locations in markets across the United States. "At the end of the day, when you buy into a franchise, you're buying into the people who are running it and the processes they have. The ambition and passion the MY SALON Suite team has for helping people and growing this concept is unlike any other."

The initial investment for a MY SALON Suite franchise is approximately $664,738  $1,479,827, including a $50,000 franchise fee. Ideal candidates have a net worth of $1.5 million, of which $500K is liquid. Additionally, MY SALON Suite 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 $25,000.

For more information about the MY SALON Suite franchise, visit https://www.mysalonsuite.com/franchise , or contact Scott Krupa at [email protected] or 214-346-5650.

About Suite Management Franchising

Suite Management Franchising, the parent company of MY SALON Suite, is a salon suite franchise created for entrepreneurial-spirited individuals interested in diversifying their portfolio while living a semi-absentee lifestyle. Founded to inspire and empower the modern-day salon owner, the company offers a unique opportunity for a diverse range of beauty and health professionals to run their businesses successfully. Salon members are provided ongoing training, support, and a strong referral network to help their business generate a six-figure income. Featured in Entrepreneur magazine's "Top New Franchise" list, the brand is widely recognized for its rapid expansion and noteworthy success. A strategic alliance partnership with Propelled Brands, the nation's largest family-owned collection of salons, continues to propel the brand's growth. With 265 locations in 35 states across the United States and Canada, the franchise concept plans to add 200 franchise partners and 500 salons in the next three years.

For more information about Suite Management Franchising, visit mysalonsuite.com/franchise. To learn more about MY SALON Suite and Salon Plaza, visit mysalonsuite.com and salonplaza.com .

SOURCE MY SALON Suite
WASHINGTON, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Carrying more than 8,200 pounds of supplies, scientific investigations, commercial products, hardware, and other cargo to the orbiting laboratory for NASA, Northrop Grumman's uncrewed Cygnus spacecraft is scheduled to depart the International Space Station Friday, April 21.

The agency will provide live coverage of Cygnus' departure starting at 7 a.m. EDT on NASA Television, the NASA app, and on the agency's website at:

The Northrop Grumman Cygnus space freighter is pictured in the grip of the Canadarm2 robotic arm as ground controllers remotely install the cargo craft to the International Space Station's Unity module. The space station was orbiting into a sunset 257 miles above the Indian Ocean off the coast of the African nation of Tanzania. Credits: NASA

https://www.nasa.gov/live

Flight controllers on the ground will send commands for the space station's Canadarm2 robotic arm to detach Cygnus from the Unity module's Earth-facing port, then maneuver the spacecraft into position for its release at 7:20 a.m. UAE (United Arab Emirates) astronaut Sultan Alneyadi will monitor Cygnus' systems during its departure from the space station.

Following a deorbit engine firing later in the evening, Cygnus will begin a planned destructive re-entry, in which the spacecraft  filled with trash packed by the station crew  will safely burn up in Earth's atmosphere.

Cygnus arrived at the space station in November 2022, following a launch on Northrop Grumman's Antares rocket from NASA's Wallops Flight Facility on Wallops Island, Virginia. It was the company's 18th commercial resupply services mission to the space station for NASA. On March 30, Cygnus fired its engines for over 15 minutes to boost the station's orbit, continuing the certification process for using the Cygnus spacecraft as an additional reboost capability. Northrop Grumman named the spacecraft after the late NASA astronaut, physicist, and first American woman in space, Sally Ride.

SOURCE NASA
WASHINGTON, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Following is a statement from Eileen O'Reilly, president of the National Press Club, and Gil Klein, president of the National Press Club Journalism Institute, on the upcoming trial of North Carolina journalists Matilda Bliss and Veronica Coit. Bliss and Coit were covering the eviction of a homeless encampment on December 25, 2021, when they were arrested and charged with trespassing. A trial is scheduled for Wednesday.

"Journalists Matilda Bliss and Veronica Coit of the citizen journalism news outlet The Asheville Blade were doing their jobs, reporting on the clearing by local police of a homeless encampment, when they were arrested on December 25, 2021. Police body camera footage shows Bliss and Coit did not endanger anyone or obstruct any police activity. They were performing a public service in reporting on an event of significant importance in their community.

Journalism is not a crime. No journalist should be arrested for their work, no journalist should be prosecuted for their work, and no journalist should be forced to stand trial simply for doing their job. We urge prosecutors in Buncombe County, North Carolina to drop these retaliatory charges before the meritless trial commences of these journalists."

Background:

https://www.press.org/newsroom/arrests-cnn-journalists-minneapolis-denounced-national-press-club-journalism-institute

Contact:

Bill McCarren,

(202) 662 - 7534

SOURCE National Press Club
BOCA RATON, Fla., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The docu-series EARTH with John Holden airs Sunday, April 23rd at 5:00 pm ET on Fox Business Network; Sunday, April 30th at 3:30 pm ET and Sunday, May 7th at 3:30 pm ET on Bloomberg TV; and Sunday, April 30th at 10:00 am ET on BNN Bloomberg Canada. EARTH with John Holden is also available on the streaming platforms Vimeo, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Google TV, and YouTube. For more information visit: https://earthwithjohnholden.com

In this episode, viewers learn how KraftPal replaces wood pallets with lighter, more sustainable cardboard ones; Turntide Technologies makes zero-emission powertrains for electric cars and trucks electric arc furnaces; Southwest Airlines invests in Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) made from agricultural waste; General Shale provides resilient, recyclable brick to builders and GrafTech graphite electrodes to produce greener, recyclable steel.

First, John goes to Slovenia to find out how KraftPal replaces wood shipping and storage pallets with lighter, more sustainable ones. KraftPal makes corrugated cardboard pallets that are 80% lighter than wood, while providing the same shock absorption, strength, and durability. KraftPal pallets are made from fast-growing pinewood pulp, which is 100% recyclable, saving billions of trees every year. https://www.kraftpal.com

Next, Co-host Andrea Ocampo visits northeastern England to discover how Turntide Technologies makes zero-emission powertrain and battery components for trucks, heavy equipment, and trains. Working with its partners, Turntide has electrified more than 300,000 vehicles since the 1970s. The company is applying its proprietary technology to help decarbonize transportation, agriculture, and construction around the globe. https://turntide.com

John travels to Texas and Colorado to find out how Southwest Airlines invests in SAF made from agricultural residue like corn stover to help move the airline industry away from fossil fuels. SAF is critical to decarbonizing aviation and plays a significant role in Southwest's path to net zero by 2050. Southwest Airlines is working to solve the challenges of producing enough SAF at a reasonable cost and reaching its goal to replace 10% of its total jet fuel consumption with SAF by 2030. https://www.southwest.com/planet

Andrea visits Johnson City, Tennessee to explore how General Shale, North America's largest producer of clay brick and building materials, helps builders construct greener structures using resilient, recyclable brick. Sustainable brick wins high marks for structural design and durability. Made from clay and shale, brick reduces construction waste, can be produced with minimal water and GHS emissions, and contributes to a circular economy. https://generalshale.com

Finally, John travels to Pamplona, Spain to find out how electric arc furnaces use graphite electrodes from innovator GrafTech to produce greener, fully recyclable steel. Electric arc furnaces generate dramatically fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional methods of steelmaking and produce new steel from recycled scrap metal. GrafTech, as one of the world's largest producers of the graphite electrodes that are essential to the operation of electric arc furnaces, is enabling the sustainability of steel. https://www.graftech.com

StarMedia Productions, creator of EARTH with John Holden, remains at the forefront of the latest trends, technology and ideas that shape the way audiences interact with television - in entertaining and educational ways. Our shows lead viewers towards a promising future fueled by effective, powerful communications between consumers, business leaders, and stakeholders. Engage with us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

Media Contact: Robert Albolino

[email protected]

SOURCE StarMedia Productions
Rector of SOCARs Baku Higher Oil School (BHOS) Elmar Gasimov has met with the managerial staff and senior students of Bilasuvar Lyceum-School Complex named after National Hero Mubariz Ibrahimov.

Welcoming the guests at the university, Elmar Gasimov noted that the meeting was taking place within the framework of the Memorandum of Understanding signed between Baku Higher Oil School and Bilasuvar Lyceum-School Complex.

Bilasuvar Lyceum-School Complex named after National Hero Mubariz Ibrahimov is the pride of Azerbaijan. Studying there is an honor and at the same time is a responsibility. We believe that you will honor this name in the profession and life that you will choose. BHOS students used to be highly intelligent secondary school students like you. We will be happy if you also get the title of BHOS student in the future. As a university created within the structure of SOCAR, Baku Higher Oil School trains English-speaking specialists. Students and graduates of this university are an important part of the most valuable human capital of our country.

Executive Director of Bilasuvar Lyceum-School Complex Agshin Bagirov expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and hospitality. He expressed confidence that cooperation with BHOS will contribute greatly to the activities of the Complex.

At the meeting, the guests were provided with extensive information about the specialties, passing scores, educational process, activity directions, general statistical indicators, educational programs and internal disciplinary rules of BHOS. They were also given information about foreign companies and higher education institutions with which BHOS cooperates, as well as about internship programs and workshops organized in local and multinational companies.

After the meeting, the guests toured the campus of Baku Higher Oil School.
BEIJING, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Recently, Goldwind achieved an important development milestone by exceeding 100GW of global installed capacity through the successful lifting of several wind power projects in Xinjiang, Inner Mongolia, Qinghai, Guangxi, Yunnan, Brazil, the United Arab Emirates, etc. This makes Goldwind the first Chinese WTG manufacturer to reach this milestone. To celebrate this historic occasion, Goldwind held an event to mark the 100GW global installed capacity milestone and launched the new models GWH221-8.X-10 and GWH24X-12.X, setting Goldwind on a new development journey.

Since its establishment, Goldwind has always been deeply involved in the wind power field. With scientific and technological innovation capabilities at its core, the company works together with partners inside and outside the industry to raise the efficiency of renewable energy and accelerate the global energy transformation. At present, Goldwind's business network spans 38 countries across six continents, with eight overseas regional centers in North America, South America, Europe, Africa, Australia, Asia, Middle East and North Africa, and the Russian-speaking part of Central Asia. The company is committed to achieving comprehensive internationalization in capital, market, technology, talents and management. In 2022, Goldwind was ranked first in the Chinese market for the 12th consecutive year with newly installed capacity of 11.4GW and a domestic market share of 23%. It also achieved a global market share of about 15% with newly installed capacity of 12.7GW, also ranking first in the global market.

Goldwind wind turbines are continuously delivering clean energy to societies around the world. The 100GW of installed capacity is equivalent to 11% of the world's wind power installed capacity. This generates approximately 220 billion kWh of green power annually, which is equivalent to the annual power generation of 2.2 Three Gorges Dam, and can provide electricity for more than 76.8 million three-member families for one year or support 477 days of operation for China Railway Highspeed. This achievement also reduces 180 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions worldwide, which accounts for about 1.6% of the total CO 2 emissions in China in 2022, and is equivalent to 100 million cubic meters of forest reforestation, making a significant contribution to global sustainable development and carbon emission reduction.

Wu Gang, the Chairman of Goldwind, said: "The achievement is the joint efforts and persistence of countless practitioners of long-termism. We have received support not only from the Chinese government's far-sighted and forward-looking policies, but also from numerous electricity companies who have adhered to the energy transition strategy for many years and given us trial and error opportunities for our domestic equipment development. The cohesion and collaboration of the Chinese wind power industry chain has also played a crucial role. Standing at this new historical starting point, Goldwind will persist in sincere cooperation with all partners to further promote the high-quality development of the wind power business. We remain fully committed to undertaking the mission of advancing renewable energy and contributing to a green and low-carbon future."

As Goldwind pivots towards high-quality, large-scale development and the market trend of large MW-class, intelligent and green wind turbines, it officially launched its new models GWH221-8.X-10 and GWH24X-12.X, addressing the challenges brought by uncertainties such as unstable wind resources, unpredictable grid fluctuations, scarce development sites and low project construction matching to continue to create value for customers. The new product launches are based on the strategy of providing flexible combinations of products, towers and solutions for different scenarios to achieve improvements in the quality and efficiency of wind power assets. Taking a plain wind farm in the northwest with an annual average wind speed of 7m/s and a project capacity of 200,000 kW as an example for calculation, the new product platforms can reduce the number of turbines for the project by 20% to 40%, investment cost per kW by 8% to 15%, and levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) throughout the whole life cycle by 6% to 12%. The new model platform has been awarded a Certification of Compliance for Design Assessment by the China General Certification Center.

Having achieved the 100GW global installed capacity milestone, Goldwind will continue to uphold its philosophy of the "Long-distance Running in Wind Power" and the corporate mission of "Innovating for a Brighter Tomorrow". Goldwind focuses on innovation and breakthroughs in products, technology and services, and remains committed to building an energy foundation to drive a renewable future, and will continue to work closely with partners from all walks of life to create a "golden age" for global wind power.

About Goldwind

As a trusted global strategic partner in clean energy, Goldwind upholds its corporate mission of "Innovating for a Brighter Tomorrow" and is committed to building an energy foundation that drives a renewable future centered on the EOD (Ecology-Oriented Development)+ENERGY clean energy industry model. Since its establishment in 1998, Goldwind has witnessed and contributed to the growth and prosperity of China's renewable energy industry, helping clients worldwide tap into the value of clean energy with comprehensive and in-depth internationalization capabilities. With a business network spanning 38 countries across six continents and about 10,000 employees worldwide, including over 3,000 research and development (R&D) and technical personnel, Goldwind is dedicated to technological innovation, providing reliable products and solutions in energy development, devices, service, and utilization. Goldwind's mission is to help cities and enterprises achieve comprehensive and sustainable economic, ecological and social development.

For more information, please visit the official website: www.goldwind.com

SOURCE Goldwind
VANCOUVER, BC, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - NexGen Energy Ltd. ("NexGen" or the "Company") (TSX: NXE) (NYSE: NXE) (ASX: NXG) in partnership with the Clearwater River Dene Nation ("CRDN") is pleased to announce the establishment of a 100% Indigenous owned and operated gravel supply company in Northwest Saskatchewan. Continuing to deliver on its industry-leading Impact Benefit Agreement with the CRDN signed in March 2022, NexGen purchased a $4.1M gravel crusher to provide aggregate material for its Rook I project ("Rook I" or the "Project") and to supply the northern communities' aggregate material for road infrastructure requirements. The CRDN member-owned business will lease to own and operate the gravel crusher. The aggregate supply for Rook I has a capital expenditure representing an estimated $36M in value (Rook I Feasibility Study) to the new CRDN-owned business in just the first three years of construction of the Project. This new company will immediately create sixteen (16) additional jobs for local community members.

Gravel Crushing TeleStacker Conveyer Stockpiling Aggregate (CNW Group/NexGen Energy Ltd.)

Teddy Clark, Chief CRDN, commented: "The establishment of the gravel supply company is a testament to NexGen's commitment to creating sustainable economic opportunities for Indigenous communities in the local project area. This new business will give CRDN and Metis Local 39 members, as well as surrounding communities, meaningful employment, which will stimulate the economy for all the communities in the local project area."

Leigh Curyer, Chief Executive Officer, commented: "NexGen is proud to be expanding its support for our local community partners to maximise positive sustainable growth. This business opportunity delivers three key initiatives, aggregate for roads and the foundations for Rook I permitted site works scheduled to commence in summer 2023, much needed road aggregate repair for the communities in the wider local project area, and scalability and longevity to provide positive outcomes for many people including training and employment. Further, it demonstrates NexGen's industry leading approach to community advancement and engagement with local community partners, and confirms the Company's long-standing track record of maximizing opportunities for its stakeholders."

The establishment of a gravel supply company in the Northwest addresses the limited options and availability of crushing services in Northwest Saskatchewan. In addition to NexGen's Rook I Project, which is currently advancing through the Provincial and Federal regulatory and licensing review process, this initiative will produce the aggregate needed for other mining operations, Saskatchewan Highways, and construction operations across Northwest Saskatchewan.

About NexGen

NexGen Energy is a Canadian company focused on delivering clean energy fuel for the future. The Company's flagship Rook I Project is being optimally developed into the largest low-cost producing uranium mine globally, incorporating the most elite standards in environmental and social governance. The Rook I Project is supported by a NI 43-101 compliant Feasibility Study which outlines the elite environmental performance and industry-leading economics. NexGen is led by a team of experienced uranium and mining industry professionals with expertise across the entire mining life cycle, including exploration, financing, project engineering and construction, operations and closure. NexGen is leveraging its proven experience to deliver a Project that leads the entire mining industry socially, technically and environmentally. The Project and prospective portfolio in northern Saskatchewan will provide generational long-term economic, environmental, and social benefits for Saskatchewan, Canada, and the world.

NexGen is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange, the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol "NXE," and on the Australian Securities Exchange under the ticker symbol "NXG," providing access to global investors to participate in NexGen's mission of solving three major global challenges in decarbonization, energy security and access to power. The Company is headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia, with its primary operations office in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.

Technical Disclosure

All technical information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Kevin Small, NexGen's Senior Vice President, Engineering and Operations, a qualified person under National Instrument 43-101.

A technical report in respect of the FS is filed on SEDAR ( www.sedar.com ) and EDGAR (www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml ) and is available for review on NexGen Energy's website (www.nexgenenergy.ca ).

Cautionary Note to U.S. Investors

This news release includes Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources classification terms that comply with reporting standards in Canada and the Mineral Reserves and the Mineral Resources estimates are made in accordance with NI 43-101. NI 43-101 is a rule developed by the Canadian Securities Administrators that establishes standards for all public disclosure an issuer makes of scientific and technical information concerning mineral projects. These standards differ from the requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") set by the SEC's rules that are applicable to domestic United States reporting companies. Consequently, Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources information included in this news release is not comparable to similar information that would generally be disclosed by domestic U.S. reporting companies subject to the reporting and disclosure requirements of the SEC. Accordingly, information concerning mineral deposits set forth herein may not be comparable with information made public by companies that report in accordance with U.S. standards.

Forward-Looking Information

The information contained herein contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable United States securities laws and regulations and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. "Forward-looking information" includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to mineral reserve and mineral resource estimates, the 2021 Arrow Deposit, Rook I Project and estimates of uranium production, grade and long-term average uranium prices, anticipated effects of completed drill results on the Rook I Project, planned work programs, completion of further site investigations and engineering work to support basic engineering of the project and expected outcomes. Generally, but not always, forward-looking information and statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected ", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", or "believes" or the negative connotation thereof 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" or the negative connotation thereof. Statements relating to "mineral resources" are deemed to be forward-looking information, as they involve the implied assessment that, based on certain estimates and assumptions, the mineral resources described can be profitably produced in the future.

Forward-looking information and statements are based on the then current expectations, beliefs, assumptions, estimates and forecasts about NexGen's business and the industry and markets in which it operates. Forward-looking information and statements are made based upon numerous assumptions, including among others, that the mineral reserve and resources estimates and the key assumptions and parameters on which such estimates are based are as set out in this news release and the technical report for the property, the results of planned exploration activities are as anticipated, the price and market supply of uranium, the cost of planned exploration activities, that financing will be available if and when needed and on reasonable terms, that third party contractors, equipment, supplies and governmental and other approvals required to conduct NexGen's planned exploration activities will be available on reasonable terms and in a timely manner and that general business and economic conditions will not change in a material adverse manner. Although the assumptions made by the Company in providing forward-looking information or making forward-looking statements are considered reasonable by management at the time, there can be no assurance that such assumptions will prove to be accurate in the future.

Forward-looking information and statements also involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and other factors, which may cause actual results, performances and achievements of NexGen to differ materially from any projections of results, performances and achievements of NexGen expressed or implied by such forward-looking information or statements, including, among others, the existence of negative operating cash flow and dependence on third party financing, uncertainty of the availability of additional financing, the risk that pending assay results will not confirm previously announced preliminary results, conclusions of economic valuations, the risk that actual results of exploration activities will be different than anticipated, the cost of labour, equipment or materials will increase more than expected, that the future price of uranium will decline or otherwise not rise to an economic level, the appeal of alternate sources of energy to uranium-produced energy, that the Canadian dollar will strengthen against the U.S. dollar, that mineral resources and reserves are not as estimated, that actual costs or actual results of reclamation activities are greater than expected, that changes in project parameters and plans continue to be refined and may result in increased costs, of unexpected variations in mineral resources and reserves, grade or recovery rates or other risks generally associated with mining, unanticipated delays in obtaining governmental, regulatory or First Nations approvals, risks related to First Nations title and consultation, reliance upon key management and other personnel, deficiencies in the Company's title to its properties, uninsurable risks, failure to manage conflicts of interest, failure to obtain or maintain required permits and licences, risks related to changes in laws, regulations, policy and public perception, as well as those factors or other risks as more fully described in NexGen's Annual Information Form dated February 25, 2022 filed with the securities commissions of all of the provinces of Canada except Quebec and in NexGen's 40-F filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, which are available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and Edgar at www.sec.gov .

Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking information or statements or implied by forward-looking information or statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information or statements due to the inherent uncertainty thereof.

There can be no assurance that forward-looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or reissue forward-looking information as a result of new information or events except as required by applicable securities laws.

SOURCE NexGen Energy Ltd.
Company Looks to Enhance Clinical, Operational and Commercial Experience As It Grows U.S. Market for AI-Powered Smart Lamp

CHICAGO, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Nobi, a provider of innovative AgeTech solutions, today announced the addition of Sarah Thomas, one of the United States' leading AgeTech experts, to its Board of Directorsan important step in helping the company further its growth in the U.S. marketplace.

Thomas joins the current six-member Board which includes international specialists in elder care, medicine and smart-home technology. Thomas will serve as the geographical expert and AgeTech industry guide for the U.S. market. Nobi's flagship device is an AI-powered, smart lamp that is transforming elder care by both preventing and detecting falls which are the most significant cause of fatal injuries in older adultsoffering safety while meeting the highest design standards as well as privacy requirements.

"We're proud to have one of the most distinguished U.S. AgeTech experts join Nobi's Board," said Roeland Pelgrims, co-founder and CEO at Nobi. "We share the same vision on the future of elder care and the role technology should play, so it's a perfect fit. Sarah's extensive operational, clinical and entrepreneurial experience will certainly help power our growth in the U.S. market. I consider it an honor to be able to join forces to make a societal change through practical and sustainable AgeTech solutions."

Thomas is an accomplished leader of innovation. She serves as a global aging expert advising startups, large corporations and investors, with more than 20 years dedicated to transforming the aging experience. She is CEO of multinational staff-hosting company MezTal in Guadalajara, Mexico, and CEO of consulting firm Delight by Design that creates age-inclusive products, brands, spaces and experiences that delight the consumer at every age. She has served as Executive-in-Residence at Aging2.0 and currently serves as Principal Fellow in the Nexus Insights firm for aging transformation as well as Mentor to Techstars Longevity Accelerator. She also is co- founder of AgeTech News, a media platform for global AgeTech news and deal flow, and sits as a Venture Partner to AGETECH Capital and ThirdAct Ventures. A published author, she serves in multiple advisory positions, sits on numerous other boards, and is an accomplished keynote speaker on topics such as healthy longevity and aging innovations.

"Human-centered design is very important to me," said Thomas. "The future of health and wellness data collection must be seamlessly integrated into the daily routine. With Nobi, they do just thatusing a form factor that fits comfortably into any environment while capturing important information for the user to help them on their own health journey. Nobi's founding team members come from senior-living and care environments, so they know the importance of non-intrusive design and data collection with truly actionable insights. As soon as I first met with the Nobi leaders and the Board, I knew they surrounded themselves with best-in-class technical experts, caregivers, operators, investors and industry leaders who would help make Nobi a success.

"I believe Nobi can not only support the senior-living environment but also canand shouldbe an in-home system. With Nobi's health and activity monitoring, wellness support and fall detection, we can have a powerful tool to improve the ability to stay safer and healthier at home."

Nobi will be exhibiting at HIMSS 2023. Attendees can visit Booth 6009-98 in the Start-Up Park to learn how the company's smart lamp is transforming care for older adults. Additionally, Pelgrims will be speaking on "Tech vs. Peopleand How the Two Can Truly Go Hand in Hand," on April 19, at 1:15 pm, in the North Building, Hall B, Booth 8300.

About Nobi



Founded in Belgium in 2018, Nobi is an AgeTech company that believes everyone deserves to grow old in a dignified, safe, and happy manner. Nobi's flagship device is its AI-powered smart lamp, which supports the safety of older adults by providing fall detection and prevention. Nobi provides targeted senior living care and helps relieve busy care workers from repetitive tasks. Nobi currently operates in Belgium, the United States, the Netherlands, Sweden, Finland, Norway, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Hungary, the United Kingdom, and Canada. Nobi has an international advisory board with specialists in elderly care, medicine, and smart home technology. Nobi was proclaimed "Most Promising Healthcare Innovation 2022" by Flemish and Dutch healthcare professionals. It has also received several other awards, including the Henry van de Velde 2021 Award in both the categories of Business Innovation and Consumer, a German Design Award, and the international MUSE Design Award in eight categories. For more information, visit https://nobi.life/en-us/. Follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter @NobiSmartLamps .

Media Contact:

Jenn Pratt

Carabiner Communications

M: 404.655.2273

[email protected]

SOURCE Nobi
Tech leaders design unified solution for healthcare-specific detection and response of cyber threats

BURLINGTON, Mass., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Tausight, healthcare's first AI-powered protected health information (PHI) security company, today announced a new partnership with Novelle IntelliSolve, the managed security service provider (MSSP) providing cyber preparedness and response solutions for healthcare and the life sciences. Together, the new partners have designed a unified solution that gives healthcare organizations a single tool to identify, detect, and respond to ePHI vulnerabilities.

"We're proud to partner with Novelle IntelliSolve to produce a joint solution that gives healthcare organizations immediate visibility and insight into patient data so they can detect, track, and respond to PHI activity," said David Ting, Founder and Chief Technology Officer at Tausight. "Together, we're providing a unified ePHI-DR solution as a healthcare-specific detection and response tool to combat cyber threats."

Tech leaders design unified solution for healthcare-specific detection and response of cyber threats Tweet this

The partnership arose from a recognition that healthcare providers face unique identity theft and ePHI security challenges. Pediatric populations, for example, require an extended retention-of-data timeline, as well as presenting extremely sensitive identities that warrant extra cyber protection. Such healthcare-specific requirements necessitated a solution that offered robust capabilities for both PHI detection and response.

"We're excited to bring our Tausight partnership to our clients and leverage our deep operational experience in the healthcare vertical to deliver a single strategy and solution for real-time PHI surveillance and risk management," said Maireni Salas, President and Chief Operating Officer of Novelle IntelliSolve.

"This joint solution lets healthcare CIOs, CISOs, and compliance/privacy officers identify where all their PHI lives, determine if it has adequate protections in place, and respond accordingly," said Ting. "The Tausight-Novelle partnership will help healthcare organizations minimize the risk of unauthorized access and loss of PHI."

Learn more about the Tausight-Novelle partnership at HIMSS 2023 (Cybersecurity Command Center Kiosk #4903-33), taking place April 17-21 in Chicago, IL.

About Tausight

Tausight is healthcare's first AI-powered ePHI security company with a vision of reducing healthcare-specific cybersecurity incidents by leveraging the power of AI to detect and manage PHI risk in today's decentralized healthcare ecosystems. Founded in 2018 by healthcare security pioneer David Ting and led by healthcare visionary Frank Nydam, Tausight is backed by top-tier healthcare investors Polaris Partners , Flare Capital Partners , and .406 Ventures , and is based in Boston, Massachusetts. For more information, visit: www.tausight.com and follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter ( @Tausight ).

About Novelle IntelliSolve

IntelliSolve is a next-generation MSSP for healthcare and the life sciences, offering AI-driven cloud solutions to secure and manage healthcare technology ecosystems. Our curated cybersecurity stacks are designed by seasoned experts with over 25 years of experience in all areas of healthcare management. For more information, visit www.novelleintellisolve.com. Novelle IntelliSolve is the managed security and compliance subsidiary of Novelle Health Partners, LLC, a privately owned entity focused on healthcare data and analytics, population health, and practice management.

CONTACT: Jay Staunton, [email protected], 781-790-6023

SOURCE Tausight
Show is an Adaptation of Children's Book Series by Author Maria Twena

Watch now exclusively on Nuestra.TV

[Press: Click HERE to watch the trailer, and HERE for images and soundtrack of the series]

MIAMI, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- As the U.S. commemorates National Bilingual/Multilingual Learner Advocacy Month, Nuestra.TV, announced today the premiere of its new original children's animated series "MariVi: The Master Navigator," an adaptation from Maria Twena's children's book series under the same moniker. The first episodes are available to watch now on Nuestra.TV, the free video-streaming service that aims to entertain, inform, and empower Hispanic audiences across cultural diversity, generations, languages, and devices.

"MariVi: The Master Navigator" follows U.S. born, MariVi, a bilingual/bicultural primary school girl, and her Spanish-speaking immigrant parents, through life in the U.S. MariVi's stories address the distinct experiences of bicultural children, including the role of Sherpa that they often play, and their need to find balance and belonging in a world with a different language and culture than that of their parents.

With MariVi, children of immigrants will find a character that genuinely mirrors their childhoods. Tweet this

The first episode, entitled "School Crossing," accurately depicts MariVi's first-grade experience, a culture clash for many bicultural youth  from having her name changed by her teacher to misunderstanding her teacher's assignment.

Created by Maria Twena, a second-generation Latina, the series has been an ambitious journey  from infancy to premiere, whose time has come. "U.S. born Hispanics comprise 67% of the market today, and yet their authentic life experiences aren't reflected in children's programming. With MariVi, children of immigrants will find a character that genuinely mirrors their childhoods and honorably echoes their cultural and linguistic duality," said Twena, who just released her second book on Amazon of the MariVi the Master Navigator series titled "Weekend Ways."

"How refreshing and welcome is the arrival of MariVi. Indeed, she will help many like her navigate their way into kinship, connection, and a fuller, more expansive sense of community. Bravo!," said Gregory Boyle, Founder, Homeboy Industries and NY Times Bestselling Author .

"MariVi: The Master Navigator" was executive produced by MariVi & Company, LLC and animated by Catapult Productions (BrandStar). The title track for the series was produced by Grammy Award-Winning Dan Pinnella and sung by FRANKIE.

Follow @NuestraTVforUS on TikTok, and Twitter, and visit www.Nuestra.TV to watch premier bilingual content.

SOURCE Nuestra.TV
Partnering With Second and Third Generation Family Members, The #OurHolocaustStory Campaign Illustrates The Importance Of Passing On Holocaust Survivor Testimony  Families Make A Pledge To Remember; More Than 100 Holocaust Survivors And Their Families Participating.

NEW YORK, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany (Claims Conference) today announced the launch of a new digital campaign, Our Holocaust Story: A Pledge to Remember. The campaign features Holocaust survivors from across the United States and around the world with their second and third generation family members. The campaign illustrates the importance of passing on the stories of the Holocaust so future generations can learn from past atrocities.

Gideon Taylor, President of the Claims Conference, said, "Each survivor has a poignant and unique story to tell of survival. By passing these stories on within their family, they make certain their story continues and the lessons of the Holocaust are not forgotten. Collectively, these stories tell the history of the Shoah, a history we must preserve and share. Only then can we truly say, 'never again.'"

Our Holocaust Story features short videos of Holocaust survivors and family members sharing personal testimonies of persecution and survival. In closing, family members make a pledge to remember, ensuring these stories continue. The campaign demonstrates the importance of passing on survivor testimonies. Many survivors do not have children and even for those who do, the awesome weight of carrying this testimony can be and should be shared. This campaign reaches beyond survivors and their families, providing a moment in time when each of us can take on the extraordinary responsibility of keeping individual stories alive and ensuring future generations learn about and understand the lessons of the Holocaust.

Greg Schneider, Executive Vice President of the Claims Conference, said, "When we see a Holocaust survivor with their family members, it sends a powerful message  they didn't just survive the Holocaust, they went on to live, to build a family, a family that would not exist if they had not survived. Each survivor has a profound impact on the world, and it is our responsibility to carry forward the torch of their testimony. We should all make a pledge to remember."

Over 100 Holocaust survivors and their families are participating in the campaign, all of whom will be featured in posts across the Claims Conference's social media platforms every week throughout the year. Survivor testimonies will be shared on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok, using the hashtag #OurHolocaustStory. The Claims Conference will permanently house all videos and additional content on the campaign website, www.PledgetoRemember.org.

Jehuda, George and Robert Lindenblatt, three Holocaust survivor brothers from Hungary all living in New York, came together with their families to create a video for the campaign. In their video, Jehuda talks of his responsibility to share the story and also the difficulty in telling it, saying, "I survived the Holocaust and I have to tell the story again and againI was so hungry. If you never experienced hunger, you cannot explain to anyone what it is."

Ernie Friedlander, a Holocaust survivor born in Austria, currently living in Australia, shared his story with his son David Friedlander, saying, "if not for one decent human being who cared, I probably wouldn't be alive today." Ernie concluded with, "Unfortunately, the rest of my family didn't survive, including my father."

Assia Gorban, a Holocaust survivor in Germany, created a video for the campaign with her granddaughter, Ruth Gorban, who said to her grandmother during the recording, "I promise you that I will tell your story as best I can so that it lives on with us."

Sonia Klein, a Holocaust survivor of the Warsaw Ghetto and Auschwitz in Poland, recorded a video with her son, Alan Klein, and her grandson, Jordan Mello-Klein. Of his grandmother's story, Jordan said, [they] "tried to dehumanize her and just minimize her to a number. But I tried to take that back; it's way more than a number, she's way more than a number."

Shraga Milstein, a Holocaust survivor from Poland living in Israel, shared his story, saying, "In 1943, the ghetto was closed in Piotrkow, my hometown, and we were transferred to the Buchenwald camp. In 1945 when I was liberated from the Bergen-Belsen camp I was 12 years old. My parents had perished."

Supporting this campaign are over 50 museums and institutions from across the United States and around the world, including: United States Holocaust Memorial Museum (USHMM); Yad Vashem: The World Holocaust Remembrance Center; International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA); United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO); USC Shoah Foundation; American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC); American Jewish Committee (AJC); The Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA); The Jewish Agency for Israel; Center Organizations of Holocaust Survivors in Israel; B'nai B'rith International; American Gathering of Jewish Holocaust Survivors and Their Descendants; University College London Centre for Holocaust Education; The Holocaust, Their Family, Me and US; World Jewish Relief; Museum of Tolerance; Durban Holocaust and Genocide Centre; Melbourne Holocaust Museum; Executive Council of Australian Jewry; The Museum of Jewish Heritage  A Living Memorial to the Holocaust; Anne Frank Huis Amsterdam; Galicia Jewish Museum; Stiftung Denkmal fur die ermordeten Juden Europas; Bundesministerium des Innern (BMI); Austria's Agency for Education and Internationalization; Haus der Wannseekonferenz; Simon-Wiesenthal Institute, Vienna; Zentralrat der Juden in Deutschland; Auswartiges Amt; Cape Town Holocaust and Genocide Centre; Holocaust Educational Trust of the UK; Holocaust Education Resource Center; European Jewish Congress; The Jewish Museum of Greece; Sydney Jewish Museum; Galicia Jewish Museum; The Association of Jewish Refugees; The Museum of Tolerance; Holocaust Museum Houston; Casip-Cojasor Foundation; Fondation pour la Memoire de la Shoah; International Auschwitz Committee; Central Council of Jews from Germany; Stiftung Judisches Museum Berlin; Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe; South Carolina Council on the Holocaust; Holocaust and Human Rights Education Center; Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center; Selfhelp Community Services; Westchester Jewish Community Services; United Jewish Organizations of Williamsburg and North Brooklyn; Descendants of Holocaust Survivors; 3G New York; 3G Miami; and 3G Philadelphia.

Survivor videos from the campaign can be found on the campaign website: www.PledgetoRemember.org

For more information about the Claims Conference, please visit: www.claimscon.org.

About the Claims Conference: The Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany (Claims Conference), a nonprofit organization with offices in New York, Israel and Germany, secures material compensation for Holocaust survivors around the world. Founded in 1951 by representatives of 23 major international Jewish organizations, the Claims Conference negotiates for and disburses funds to individuals and organizations and seeks the return of Jewish property stolen during the Holocaust. As a result of negotiations with the Claims Conference since 1952, the German government has paid more than $90 billion in indemnification to individuals for suffering and losses resulting from persecution by the Nazis. In 2022, the Claims Conference distributed over $700 million in compensation to over 210,000 survivors in 83 countries and allocated over $720 million in grants to over 300 social service agencies worldwide that provide vital services for Holocaust survivors, such as homecare, food and medicine.

SOURCE Claims Conference
HANOVER, Germany, April 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On April 17, 2023 Hannover Industrial Fair (hereinafter referred to as "Hannover Messe") officially opened. With the theme of "Industrial Transformation-Creating Difference", this world's largest industrial event attracted about 6,500 related enterprises to participate in the exhibition, showing the latest achievements of world industrial innovation and development.

At this Hannover Messe, COSMOPlat, a Haier Group platform, brought eight solutions and nine practical cases to the exhibition, showing the digital technology innovations such as future factories and AIoT industrial intelligence, and the empowerment achievements of automobile and energy industries. Through AR, VR, digital twin and other technologies, visitors can visit the future factory of metaverse on the spot, experience intelligent solutions such as automobile customization as well as remote operation and maintenance of equipment on the spot. Thus, it provides new scenes and methods for industrial transformation.

At the same time, taking Hannover Messe as an opportunity, COSMOPlat also released the latest scientific and technological achievements such as BaaS Industrial Brain and Digital Twin Solutions, and jointly launched the Hannover Initiative for Sustainable Lighthouse Factory with the ecological side. Meanwhile, six international experts from Fraunhofer ISST, IDSA, WEF and international scientific research institutions will join the MVP program in COSMOPlat for the first time to jointly promote the technology, innovation scenarios and application value of industrial Internet platform, jointly advance the opening and open source of new technologies and new products, and build an open and win-win cooperation ecology.

At present, COSMOPlat has participated in Hannover Messe five times. In the future, the platform will also accelerate its own scientific and technological capabilities and global empowerment ecological construction, and show the latest achievements of the high-quality development of China's industrial Internet platform to the world.

SOURCE Haier Group
LONDON, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On April 17, Patsnap, the leading provider of innovation intelligence solutions, has announced the upcoming release of its latest AI-powered GPT product. Developed to revolutionize IP and R&D innovation services, PatsnapGPT boasts three groundbreaking features: "Patent Search Expert," "Patent Technical Disclosure Assistant," and "R&D Assistant."

PatsnapGPT is an LLM (Large Language Model) that has been designed based on IP and R&D innovation scenarios to spearhead a new industry paradigm. The "Patent Search Expert" helps IP personnel to generate patent search queries automatically, while the "Patent Technical Disclosure Assistant" generates standardized patent technical disclosures for R&D personnel. The "R&D Assistant" streamlines the search and summary of technical documents to promote operational efficiency.

"The rapid development of LLM has increased the possibilities for AI to penetrate the field of IP and R&D," said Jeffrey Tiong, Founder and CEO of Patsnap. "We are looking forward to enhancing the product experience and improving the quality and efficiency of technology and innovation development with these AI features based on PatsnapGPT."

The "Patent Search Expert" eliminates the high threshold for using patent search tools by allowing users to quickly generate plain-language search queries. The "Patent Technical Disclosure Assistant" generates clear and standardized patent technical disclosures based on the user's technical idea. The "R&D Assistant" provides conversational answers to technical questions, enhancing the efficiency of obtaining and processing technical information.

PatsnapGPT combines Patsnap's AI technology with high-quality vertical field data, including patents, papers, targets, new drugs, chemical structure formulas, news, etc., to promote and perform mature models that meet the professional needs of IP, R&D, biomedicine, and other vertical fields. Patsnap plans to expand the application of LLM in vertical fields and explore a new paradigm of AI technology enabling technological innovation.

To learn more about Patsnap and its innovation intelligence platform, please visit www.patsnap.com or sign up to join the waitlist for early access to PatsnapGPT.

About Patsnap: Founded in 2007, Patsnap is the company behind the world's leading AI-powered innovation intelligence platform. Patsnap provides global businesses with a connected, easy-to-use platform that helps them make better decisions in the innovation process. Customers are innovators across multiple industry sectors, including agriculture and chemicals, consumer goods, food and beverage, life sciences, automotive, oil and gas, professional services, aviation and aerospace, and education.

SOURCE Patsnap
Amazing NEW flavors from a celebrity chef, ambitious growth plans and a cool new app near release are making it even easier to enjoy Pei Wei Asian Kitchen

DALLAS, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The woks are burning bright at Pei Wei Asian Kitchen! After being acquired in 2019 by West Coast Capital, Pei Wei has been busy with enhancements to the flavor, growth and technology of the brand.

Celebrity Chef Jet Tila at a Pei Wei grand opening event

Pei Wei's partnership with Celebrity Chef Jet Tila has helped reinvent the menu with a wide variety of craveable pan-Asian flavors, including their top selling Firecracker Chicken. Even more new dishes will be introduced in 2023, starting with the all NEW Firecracker Chicken Nachos. Combining Pei Wei's sweet and spicy Firecracker sauce with crispy wonton chips, house-ground chicken, Sriracha mayo, red bell peppers and scallions, this craveable flavor fiesta will be available for a limited-time from 4/24  5/7 for $6.95, or just $5 when you purchase a Feast!

To add to the excitement, Pei Wei will be incorporating a fresh new design into 10-15 NEW locations this year, and has agreed to a partnership with a leading college campus operator to open another 9 university locations across the US. Fan of Jet Tila? Watch him live on Thursday, April 20th on the TODAY Show. Follow Pei Wei on social media for announcements on where he'll be next!

Ease of use navigation and engaging images are on full display at Pei Wei's new website and completely redesigned App, releasing in the coming months. The new Pei Wei App is being built to be more user friendly and much easier to navigate. Key features include a variety of loyalty rewards, the ability to save and recall recent and favorite orders, and the option to purchase and add gift cards.

With so many new dishes to try, locations to visit, and incoming technology to enhance the user experience, get your chopsticks ready for an amazing new experience at Pei Wei Asian Kitchen.

Bio:

Pei Wei Asian Kitchen is the second largest Chinese fast-casual restaurant chain in the US. Their delicious and innovative wok'd to order recipes are prepared with fresh ingredients and bold sauces. Pei Wei currently operates nearly 200 units throughout the US.

SOURCE Pei Wei
- International Journal of Molecular Sciences manuscript demonstrates robust pre-clinical data in two retinal disease models

- Studies further demonstrate broad utility of melanocortin agonists in treating inflammatory conditions, especially in the eye

CRANBURY, N.J., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Palatin Technologies, Inc. (NYSE American: PTN), a biopharmaceutical company developing first-in-class medicines based on molecules that modulate the activity of the melanocortin receptor system, today announced The International Journal of Molecular Sciences published a manuscript, "Stimulating the Melanocortin System in Uveitis and Diabetes Preserves the Structure and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of the Retina" by Tat Fong Ng and Andrew W. Taylor from Department of Ophthalmology, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, in Boston, Massachusetts. The manuscript summarizes data demonstrating the effects of PL8331 in two mouse models of retinal disease, experimental autoimmune uveoretinitis (EAU) and diabetic retinopathy (DR). Palatin and the National Institute of Health (NIH) and the Massachusetts Lions Eye Research Foundation provided funding for the study.

"We have long studied the endogenous mechanisms of anti-inflammatory activity within the healthy eye, in which the melanocortin system is key," stated Andrew W. Taylor, Ph.D., Associate Dean of Research at Boston University. "Our results show that engaging the melanocortin system in eye pathology is more than suppressing inflammation. It promotes cell survival and preserves normal anti-inflammatory activity within the eye."

Both models evaluated the efficacy of PL8331 as an agonist at the melanocortin 1 (MC1r) and melanocortin 5 (MC5r) receptors.

In the EAU mouse model, PL8331 treatment resulted in resolution of inflammation and preservation of retinal structure. Specifically, PL8331 protected the retinal photoreceptors from the auto-inflammatory damage that normally occurs in the EAU model.

In the DR mouse model, PL8331 treatment resulted in enhanced survival of various types of retinal cells and the suppression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). VEGF plays a major role in the pathology of DR. In addition, the retinal pigmented epithelial cells (RPE) were able to maintain their normal anti-inflammatory activity.

"This manuscript summarizes quite nicely the great potential of utilizing melanocortin agonists to treat inflammatory conditions in the back of the eye, specifically the retina," said Carl Spana, Ph.D., President and CEO of Palatin. "This data adds to Palatin's extensive pre-clinical data with melanocortin agonist in retinal disease models and supports future clinical development."

The findings from both studies clearly demonstrate the importance of the melanocortin system in protecting the eye from the damage caused by pathological inflammation and support the potential of melanocortin agonists as treatments for various retinal diseases.

About Uveitis

Non-infectious uveitis is a group of inflammatory diseases not due to an active infection that produces swelling and destroys eye tissue. The disease is caused by inflammatory responses inside the eye, which may be initiated by autoimmune responses, responses to infections or tumors within the eye or other parts of the body, physical injury or toxins. Uveitis is classified by where it occurs in the eye, including intermediate, posterior, pan uveitis and chronic anterior uveitis. Uveitis can be associated with several diseases, including autoimmune diseases. Initial non-infectious uveitis symptoms include blurred vision, eye pain, dark floating spots in vision and light sensitivity. Uveitis can cause vision loss or blindness if left untreated.

About Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy, also known as diabetic eye disease, is a medical condition in which damage occurs to the blood vessels of the retina (light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye) due to diabetes mellitus. It is a leading cause of blindness in people aged 20 to 64 and affects up to 80 percent of those who have had diabetes for 20 years or more and a major cost to the nation's healthcare system.

According to the Diabetic Retinopathy Clinical Research Network (DRCR.net), the number of people in the US affected by diabetic retinopathy will reach 11.3M by 2030 and 14.6M by 2050, and 28 million with vision-threatening DR (VTDR) worldwide. The CDC estimates that the prevalence of DR will triple from 2005 (5.5M) to 2050 (16M).

About Melanocortin Receptor Agonists and Inflammation

The melanocortin receptor ("MCr") system has effects on inflammation, immune system responses, metabolism, food intake, and sexual function. There are five melanocortin receptors, MC1r through MC5r. Modulation of these receptors, through use of receptor-specific agonists, which activate receptor function, or receptor-specific antagonists, which block receptor function, can have medically significant pharmacological effects. Many tissues and immune cells located throughout the body, including the gut, kidney and eye, express melanocortin receptors, empowering our opportunity to directly activate natural pathways to resolve disease inflammation.

Drugs based on melanocortin agonists have been approved by the FDA for treating several conditions, including inflammatory/autoimmune diseases, rare forms of genetic obesity and female sexual dysfunction.

About Palatin

Palatin is a biopharmaceutical company developing first-in-class medicines based on molecules that modulate the activity of the melanocortin receptor systems, with targeted, receptor-specific product candidates for the treatment of diseases with significant unmet medical need and commercial potential. Palatin's strategy is to develop products and then form marketing collaborations with industry leaders to maximize their commercial potential. For additional information regarding Palatin, please visit Palatin's website at www.Palatin.com and follow Palatin on Twitter at @PalatinTech.

Forward-looking Statements

Statements in this press release that are not historical facts, including statements about future expectations of Palatin, such as statements about PL8331 preclinical results in two mouse models of retinal disease, experimental autoimmune uveoretinitis and diabetic retinopathy, and potential utility in treating humans, are "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 as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Palatin intends that such forward-looking statements be subject to the safe harbors created thereby. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause Palatin's actual results to be materially different from its historical results or from any results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Palatin's actual results may differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements for reasons including, but not limited to, results of clinical trials, regulatory actions by the FDA and other regulatory and the need for regulatory approvals, Palatin's ability to fund development of its technology and establish and successfully complete clinical trials, the length of time and cost required to complete clinical trials and submit applications for regulatory approvals, products developed by competing pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, commercial acceptance of Palatin's products, and other factors discussed in Palatin's periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Palatin is not responsible for updating for events that occur after the date of this press release.

Palatin Technologies is a registered trademark of Palatin Technologies, Inc.

SOURCE Palatin Technologies, Inc.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. Four country and three regional projects will be implemented in Azerbaijan within the framework of the third phase of the Partnership for Good Governance (PGGIII) program for 2023-2027, Head of the Council of Europe (CoE) Office in Baku Petr Sich said at the presentation dedicated to the third phases launch, Trend reports.

Sich noted that these projects will be aimed at supporting the judiciary system, the fight against economic crimes, and the promotion of gender equality.

"One of our goals is to promote gender equality, and in particular, well strive to include women in the implementation of our projects in Azerbaijan," the CoE representative further said.

According to him, the Council of Europe has started cooperation with Azerbaijani universities, namely with the Faculty of Law of Baku State University, and "round tables" are already being held with students of this faculty.

The Partnership for Good Governance is a joint initiative of the European Union and the Council of Europe in the Eastern Partnership region.

This program supports the countries of the Eastern Partnership in bringing their legislation and practices closer to European standards in the field of human rights, the rule of law and democracy.
LA JOLLA, Calif., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- La Jolla, CA- based Cadence Travel, an award-winning Host Agency for luxury travel advisors, is set to host their 8th Annual Cadence Connects event next month in Beverly Hills, California, at Beverly Wilshire, a Four Seasons Hotel, May 10-13, 2023.

Cadence Connects is the agency's premier leisure travel-focused event. The four-day conference centers around a trade show that pairs an impressive mix of travel partners from around the world with the agency's advisor community for intimate 1:1 appointments, and a wide range of exclusive networking opportunities. Advisors will experience small brand-exclusive dinners hosted by many of Cadence's prestigious partners, such as Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts, Explora Journeys, Jumeirah Hotels, Maybourne Hotel Group, Silversea Cruises, and more.

Connection is at the heart of everything Cadence does, and this is ever-present in the mind of Cadence Founder and CEO Wendy Burk. "We're in the relationship business; we just happen to sell travel. Cadence Connects is our fullest expression of our passion for connecting our travel community and forging deeper, more meaningful relationships between advisors and our valued partners."

The event also offers curated educational content along with engaging social experiences for both Cadence advisors and partners alike. Cadence Connects will feature personal and professional development sessions with keynote speakers, an intimate and insightful panel conversation centered around prominent women in travel leadership, two celebratory evening events, an exciting gifting experience benefiting The Spirit of Big Five Foundation, and much more.

To learn more about CADENCE's Host Agency, visit www.cadencetravel.com/hostagency. Connect with CADENCE on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/cadencetravel/ or visit us at www.cadencetravel.com.

ABOUT CADENCE

CADENCE is an award-winning, internationally recognized travel company dedicated to the art of taking better care of people  clients, employees, and partners alike. CADENCE offers curated and customizable solutions for every travel need. CADENCE manages strategically focused business travel, plans exceptional meetings and incentive travel programs, creates bespoke personal leisure travel experiences, and powers a renowned host agency for a worldwide network of independent travel advisors. With a 25+ year history, a stellar reputation, and unrivaled industry status as our foundation, Cadence provides high-touch advisor support, full-service accounting, personalized marketing, competitive earning potential, and inspiring recognition programs. But more than anything, Cadence fosters an environment that feels like family - with a connected community of experienced travel advisors, and caring support from the best team in travel.

SOURCE Cadence Travel
DALLAS, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Prospera Financial Services, Inc. ("Prospera"), a boutique wealth management firm supporting a nationwide network of independent advisors, today announced their association with Howell Wealth Advisors. Managing Director Josh Howell leads the two-member team, which oversees approximately $215 million in client assets and is based in Punta Gorda, Florida.

Josh Howell, Managing Director, has nearly 30 years of experience as a financial advisor. He and relationship manager, Liz Fisher, have joined Prospera and continue to serve clients across Southwestern Florida and beyond.

"Josh has built an incredible practice that provides clients with personalized services and support across generations of client families," said Tarah Williams, Prospera's President and Chief Operating Officer. "His firm fits perfectly into our boutique model and will benefit from our industry-leading fixed-income offerings and tailored advisor support."

Howell Wealth Advisors became an independent firm in 2014 as Howell Wealth Management. It provides tax-efficient wealth, retirement and estate planning support that utilizes a range of investment opportunities to minimize risk and ensure long-term flexibility for pre-retirees and retirees.

Howell added, "Our decision to join Prospera was based on a combination of things, primarily their culture of service: their commitment to their service training program made me realize that Prospera prioritizes satisfactory customer service  demonstrated by their response times being virtually immediate. Throughout our due diligence, I felt that gold level service through every interaction, whether I was on the phone with one of the employees or walking through the office meeting and talking to employees."

Founded by financial advisors for financial advisors, Prospera's boots-on-the-ground leadership team puts a premium on soliciting and acting upon advisor feedback. The firm maintains a 2:1 rep-to-home office ratio to ensure every advisor receives the personalized support they deserve. Prospera continues to grow organically and through M&A efforts, and has increased revenue 113% over the past five years.

About Prospera Financial Services

Founded in 1982, Prospera Financial Services, Member FINRA, SIPC and a registered investment advisory, offers the flexibility and resources only found at some of the nation's largest broker-dealers. Headquartered in Dallas, Prospera was named Broker-Dealer of the Year by Investment Advisor Magazine in 2009, 2010, 2012, 2014, 2015, 2018 and 2019. Prospera is a 5-time winner and 7-time finalist for WealthManagement.com's Industry Awards as well as a ThinkAdvisor Luminaries award winner in its inaugural year. The firm supports independent financial advisors nationwide. For more information about Prospera, visit www.joinprospera.com.

SOURCE Prospera Financial Services
DUBLIN, April 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "PSMF Online Training - A Technical Training Program on Creating and Maintaining Pharmacovigilance System Master File (PSMF)" training has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

Today there is a large number of companies implementing the Pharmacovigilance System Master File as per the requirement of regulatory authorities.

As per the Pharmacovigilance Inspection Metrics Report for the period April 2016 - March 2017, the major findings were observed in relation with:

PSMF content

Deficiencies in the maintenance of the PSMF and Article 57 Database

The largest proportion of minor findings was in relation to the PSMF

PSMF is a legal requirement globally for companies having their Pharmacovigilance system in place. The PSMF provides an overview of the pharmacovigilance system within a company, and supporting and documenting compliance. The content of the pharmacovigilance system master file should reflect the global availability of safety information for medicinal products authorized in the country, with information on the pharmacovigilance system not just confined to local or regional activities.

Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of this tutorial, participants should be able to:

Discuss the content of Pharmacovigilance System Master File

Describe how to create and maintain a PSMF to make it INSPECTION READY for regulatory authorities

Overcome challenges in preparation and maintenance of PSMF

If you are starting up your Pharmacovigilance System or facing challenges in maintaining your PSMF and looking forward to strengtheninyour pharmacovigilance knowledge in regards to PSMF, this TRAINING will help you to increase your knowledge base regarding the techniques and regulatory processes involved in the creation and maintenance of Pharmacovigilance Master File.

This will be a perfect learning opportunity in all areas of drug safety, pharmacovigilance, regulatory and quality compliance and will be a great addition to your knowledge in pharmacovigilance.

Who Should Attend:



All Professionals who are involved in:

Pharmacovigilance (including QPPV)

Clinical Research

Risk Management

Drug Safety Assessment Department

Safety Data Analysis

Pharmacoepidemiology

Information Technology

Regulatory Affairs

Pharmacovigilance consultancy

Quality and Compliance



Key Topics Covered:





Introduction and History of PSMF

PSMF Regulations and Countries

PSMF Structure - Core Sections & Annexes

Creating a PSMF

Creating Core Section 1 - QPPV and Annex A

Creating Core Section 2 - Organizational Structure and Annex B

Creating Core Section 3 - Sources of safety data and Annex C

Creating Core Section 4 - Computerized Systems and databases and Annex D

Creating Core Section 5 - Pharmacovigilance Processes and Annex E

Creating Core Section 6 - Pharmacovigilance system performance and Annex F

Creating Core Section 7 - Quality System and Annex G

Creating Core Section 8 - Change control, logbook, versions, and archiving and Annex I

Creating Annex H

Creating SOP on PSMF

EU - Location, registration, and maintenance

Pharmacovigilance System Master File Location (PSMFL) code

Initial submission of Pharmacovigilance System Master File (PSMF) information

Requesting a single/multiple PSMF EV Code(s)

Maintenance of a Pharmacovigilance System Master File Location (PSMFL) entity

Change of PSMF information

Notifying a PSMFL entity as 'non-current'

PSMF and Article 57 XEVMPD content and maintenance

Submission of PSMFL information

Submission of different PSMFs at the same location

Intended use of PSMFL information

Pharmacovigilance System Master File (PSMF) number

Timelines for submission of a PSMF

PSMFL within an AMP entity

Sharing a PSMFL EV Code between organizations

Notifications of QPPV details/PSMF location via Article 57 Database

Correction of information within a PSMFL entity

Update of an AMP entity to include PSMFL information

Update of PSMFL information referenced in an AMP

Update of PSMFL information following a variation/renewal

Nullification of PSMFL entity in the XEVMPD

Management of deviations and implementation of the associated CAPAs listed in the Pharmacovigilance System Master File (PSMF)

PSMF real-time scenarios for effective learning

Q&A

Speakers:



Sunil Verma

Director

Academy of Clinical Intelligence



Sunil has been in the Clinical Research Industry for over 10 years. He held the position of Director of Trainings for a leading Contract Research Organization, HAROM Solutions. His company facilitates the business sector by providing Pharmacovigilance services to Pharmaceutical companies and technical trainings to Medicine, Dental, and Pharmacy, Life Science professionals internationally in the fields of Pharmacovigilance, Clinical Research, and Medical Writing etc. He has been involved in trainings throughout his career particularly in the areas of Pharmacovigilance including ARGUS Safety, Clinical Research and Medical Writing. With over 10 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry and clinical research organization, Sunil offers his clients the assurance that their drug safety training programs are being conducted by a seasoned pharmacovigilance executive with experience in developing, implementing and leading safety trainings in lower cost markets.



Sunil was formerly Manager, Trainings & Operations of Clinical Research and Pharmacovigilance, where he successfully developed and led more than 8 therapeutic area teams and support training and operations functions for the management of Clinical Data and Adverse Event reporting for human health, including all phases of a product life cycle (drugs, vaccines and devices).

Sunil is a client certified trainer with expertise in techno-functional training on Oracle Argus Safety 7.0 including Argus activities, User management, Case processing including duplicate check, case book-in, follow up, coding, medical review, reports generating (Expedited, Aggregated, PSUR) and dashboard reports. He ahs proficiency in WHO-DD and MedDRA Dictionary and knowledgeable in various regulatory guidelines like ICH guidelines, Good Clinical Practices, Good Documentation Practices and Volume 9A etc.





For more information about this training visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/3w0xy1

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: http://mma.prnewswire.com/media/539438/Research_and_Markets_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Research and Markets
CONSHOHOCKEN, Pa., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Quaker Houghton (NYSE: KWR) today announced the following schedule and contact information for its first quarter 2023 earnings release and investor call.

Earnings Release: Thursday, May 4, 2023 (after market close)

Visit the investor relations portion of Quaker Houghton's

website at https://investors.quakerhoughton.com/



Teleconference: Friday, May 5, 2023, at 8:30 a.m. (ET)

Participate live by phone or listen to live audio webcast through

the investor relations portion of Quaker Houghton's website at

https://investors.quakerhoughton.com/



Dial-in Number: +1-877-269-7756 (toll-free)

+1-201-689-7817 (toll)

Please call 5-10 minutes prior to the scheduled start of the call.

No password required.

If unable to participate live, select from one of the following replay options:

Digital Replay: Available through May 19, 2023

Call +1-877-660-6853 (toll free) or +1-201-612-7415 (toll)

Conference ID No. 13737996



Archived Webcast: Visit the investor relations portion of Quaker Houghton's website

at https://investors.quakerhoughton.com/

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
NEW YORK, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Klein Law Firm announces that a class action complaint has been filed on behalf of shareholders of Rite Aid Corporation (NYSE: RAD) alleging that the Company violated federal securities laws.

Class Period: April 26, 2018 to March 13, 2023

Lead Plaintiff Deadline: May 19, 2023

No obligation or cost to you.

Learn more about your recoverable losses in RAD:

https://www.kleinstocklaw.com/pslra-1/rite-aid-lawsuit-loss-submission-form?id=38308&from=4

Rite Aid Corporation NEWS - RAD NEWS

CLASS ACTION CASE DETAILS: The filed complaint alleges that Rite Aid Corporation made materially false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) until at least June 2019, Rite Aid filled at least hundreds of thousands of unlawful prescriptions for controlled substances that lacked a legitimate medical purpose, including for potentially lethal opioids such as oxycodone and fentanyl; (2) Rite Aid pharmacists filled these prescriptions despite clear "red flags" that indicated that the prescriptions were unlawful; (3) Rite Aid ignored evidence that its stores were dispensing unlawful prescriptions, and intentionally deleted internal notes about suspicious prescribers written by concerned pharmacists; (4) by knowingly filling unlawful prescriptions for controlled substances, Rite Aid violated the Controlled Substances Act and, where Rite Aid sought reimbursement from federal healthcare programs, also violated the False Claims Act; (5) as a result, it was at risk of prosecution by federal authorities such as the United States Department of Justice; and (6) as a result, defendants' statements about its business, operations, and prospects, were materially false and misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all times.

WHAT THIS MEANS TO YOU AS A SHAREHOLDER: If you have suffered a loss in Rite Aid you have until May 19, 2023 to petition the court for lead plaintiff status. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as a lead plaintiff.

NO COST TO YOU: If you purchased Rite Aid securities during the relevant period, you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out-of-pocket fees.

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR FINANCIAL INTERESTS: For additional information about the RAD lawsuit, please contact J. Klein, Esq. by telephone at 212-616-4899 or click this link: https://www.kleinstocklaw.com/pslra-1/rite-aid-lawsuit-loss-submission-form?id=38308&from=4.

ABOUT KLEIN LAW FIRM

J. Klein, Esq. represents investors and participates in securities litigations involving financial fraud throughout the nation. The Klein Law Firm is a boutique litigation firm with experience in a wide range of areas including securities law, corporate finance and commercial litigation. Since 2011, our experienced attorneys have achieved superior results for our clients with a personalized focus. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.

CONTACT:

J. Klein, Esq.

535 Fifth Avenue

4th Floor

New York City, NY 10017

[email protected]

Telephone: (212) 616-4899

www.kleinstocklaw.com

SOURCE The Klein Law Firm
BOSTON, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Global expert services and consulting firm Berkeley Research Group (BRG) announced today the appointment of Dr. Richard "Dick" Schmalensee as a senior advisor to the firm's Antitrust & Competition Policy practice. One of the world's preeminent economists, Schmalensee is a leader in industrial organization economics and its application to managerial and public policy issues, with particular emphasis on antitrust and regulatory policies. He is also known for his pioneering scholarship on multisided platforms.

Schmalensee joins BRG's world-leading antitrust and competition practice on the heels of high-profile appointments including renowned experts Dr. David S. Evans and Dr. Rosa M. Abrantes-Metz, and the September appointment of distinguished antitrust economist Dr. David Sunding.

Schmalensee is the Dean, Emeritus, of the MIT Sloan School of Management, and Howard W. Johnson Professor of Management and Professor of Economics, Emeritus, at MIT. In addition to his experience at the highest levels of academia, Schmalensee has served in numerous public sector roles. He was a member of the President's Council of Economic Advisers during President George H. W. Bush's administration and has consulted for the U.S. Federal Trade Commission and the U.S. Department of Justice.

"Professor Schmalensee is one of the foremost academics in the application of economics to competition policy issues. The expertise he'll bring to our team will be critical as we continue to build our capabilities in antitrust and competition policy," said David Teece, BRG's Executive Chairman.

David Evans, who recently joined BRG's Antitrust & Competition practice and is spearheading BRG's growth in work related to the digital economy and platform markets noted that "I've worked alongside Dick for years and am excited that he's joining our efforts in serving clients and helping them navigate novel  and increasingly complex  disputes that arise as the digital transformation sweeps through the traditional economy."

Commenting on his appointment, Schmalensee said, "It's an exciting time to join BRG as the firm embarks on ambitious growth plans in the antitrust and competition policy space."

A prolific writer and editor, Schmalensee is the author or coauthor of more than 120 articles and 11 books, including Matchmakers: The New Economics of Multisided Platforms (coauthored with David Evans). That book won the 2017 Axiom award for best economics book and was featured in the New York Times, The Wall Street Journal and The Economist. Schmalensee co-edited volumes one and two of the Handbook of Industrial Organization.

Schmalensee has served in numerous leadership positions major corporations, research organizations, and nonprofits. Today, Schmalensee is a fellow of The Econometric Society and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. He is a member of the executive committee of the National Bureau of Economic Research and Chairman Emeritus of the Board of Directors of Resources for the Future. In addition to his current roles, he was named the 2012 "Distinguished Fellow" of the Industrial Organization Society and served on the executive committee of the American Economic Association and as a director at the International Securities Exchange, among other corporations.

About Berkeley Research Group

Berkeley Research Group, LLC is a global consulting firm that helps leading organizations advance in three key areas: disputes and investigations, corporate finance, and performance improvement and advisory. Headquartered in California with offices around the world, we are an integrated group of experts, industry leaders, academics, data scientists and professionals working across borders and disciplines. We harness our collective expertise to deliver the inspired insights and practical strategies our clients need to stay ahead of what's next. Visit thinkbrg.com to learn more.

SOURCE Berkeley Research Group, LLC
Seven-Day "Voyage of the Glaciers" Cruise Aboard Sapphire Princess Departs Vancouver on September 6, 2023

SANTA CLARITA, Calif., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Princess Cruises' Nature & Adventure Ambassador Jeff Corwin has been to Alaska on more than 150 journeys and considers the Great Land his home away from home. Now, nature and animal enthusiasts alike have the special opportunity to cruise along with Corwin to Alaska to hear his inspiring stories and experience his compelling passion for wildlife, conservation and exploration firsthand.

Jeff Corwin

Jeff Corwin's Nature & Adventure Voyage is scheduled for September 6-13, 2023, sailing northbound on Princess' "Voyage of the Glaciers" itinerary from Vancouver, B.C to Anchorage (Whittier) aboard Sapphire Princess. Cruise fares and itinerary information for the September 6 voyage can be found here, starting as low as $448 per person*.

Corwin is a highly respected wildlife biologist, conservationist, animal enthusiast and recently was named Princess Cruises' Nature & Adventure Ambassador. For nearly three decades, he has been telling stories of wildlife and nature to a global audience through his many celebrated television series, including Ocean Treks with Jeff Corwin on ABC, garnering multiple Emmy and top-broadcast industry awards. His Jeff Corwin's Alaska video series can be viewed on Princess You Tube Channel.

"My most favorite place to explore is Alaska because it's unmatched when it comes to adventure, animals and incredible exploration," said Princess Cruises Nature & Adventure Ambassador Jeff Corwin. "I'm beyond excited to be hosting this special cruise so I can personally share my experiences, offer insights on watching out for bald eagles, whales and bears, and meet adventure seekers like me who love new discoveries and also share in my dedication for conservation so Alaska can be enjoyed for generations to come."

Corwin will serve as onboard guide and host for this incredible cruise to Alaska, sharing his own personal stories from his 150+ trips to this state that delivers a new and unique experience with every visit. Guests will have the opportunity to interact with Corwin through special events and activities, including:

Inspirational keynote presentations in the Princess Theater, highlighting his passion for Alaska wildlife and conservation, plus his explorations around the globe.

wildlife and conservation, plus his explorations around the globe. Meet-and-greet photo opportunities.

Exclusive shore excursions hosted by Corwin in Skagway , Juneau and Ketchikan .

, and . Unique dining experiences hosted by Corwin, featuring the cruise line's expanded Wild for Alaska Seafood menu - an industry-first, location-based seafood initiative featuring an extensive offering of fresh Alaska seafood dishes, along with destination-inspired cocktails (limited availability and additional fees apply).

Ocean Treks with Jeff Corwin was broadcast on ABC for four seasons, taking viewers to worldwide destinations that Princess visits, including the Dominican Republic, Alaska, New Zealand, Iceland, Japan, French Polynesia and more. Through the success of this series, Princess debuted Ocean Treks Conservation Connections, featuring short stories of environmental management, wildlife conversation and sustainability, also hosted by Corwin.

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel advisor, by calling 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237) or by visiting the company's website at www.princess.com.

*Taxes, Fees & Port Expense Additional

About Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises is The Love Boat, the world's most iconic cruise brand that delivers dream vacations to millions of guests every year in the most sought-after destinations on the largest ships that offer elite service personalization and simplicity customary of small, yacht-class ships. Well-appointed staterooms, world class dining, grand performances, award-winning casinos and entertainment, luxurious spas, imaginative experiences and boundless activities blend with exclusive Princess MedallionClass service to create meaningful connections and unforgettable moments in the most incredible settings in the world - the Caribbean, Alaska, Panama Canal, Mexican Riviera, Europe, South America, Australia/New Zealand, the South Pacific, Hawaii, Asia, Canada/New England, Antarctica, and World Cruises. The company is part of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE:CCL; NYSE:CUK).

SOURCE Princess Cruises
Globally recognized ISO/IEC 27001:2013 certification demonstrates commitment to enhancing the security posture of the digital signage provider.

FARGO, N.D., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Revel Digital, a comprehensive SaaS platform for digital signage and media distribution, announced today that it has achieved the ISO/IEC 27001:2013 certification for its information security management system.

Revel Digital takes threats to the availability, integrity, and confidentiality of our clients' information seriously. As such, Revel Digital is an ISO/IEC 27001:2013 certified provider whose Information Security Management System (ISMS) has received third-party accreditation from the International Standards Organization.

Revel Digital achieves ISO 27001 certification enhancing the security posture of the digital signage provider. Tweet this

ISO/IEC 27001:2013 is an information security management system standard published in October 2013 by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).

A-LIGN, an independent, third-party auditor, found Revel Digital to have technical controls in place and formalized IT Security policies and procedures. A-LIGN is an ISO / IEC 27001 certification body accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) to perform ISMS 27001 certifications. Revel Digital has implemented several security measures and countermeasures that protect it from unauthorized access or compromise and IT personnel were found to be conscientious and knowledgeable in best practices.

Compliance with this internationally recognized standard confirms that Revel Digital's security management program is comprehensive and follows leading practices. The scope of our ISO/IEC 27001:2013 certification includes:

Software Development

Quality Assurance

Production Systems Support

Security Support

This certification demonstrates Revel Digital's continued commitment to information security at every level and ensures you that the security of your data and information has been addressed, implemented, and properly controlled in all areas of our organization.

"We understand the importance of not only data security, but also the availability and resilience of the services our customers depend on," said Revel Digital CTO, Mike Tinnes. "As such, it's important that we do as much as we can towards building a high level of trust with our customers, which translates into a great partnership and positive experience with our products."

About Revel Digital

Revel Digital is a cloud-based platform for digital signage and media distribution. It provides a full suite of tools for creating and managing large-scale digital signage deployments as well as mobile campaigns and interactive customer experiences. The Revel Digital platform also includes AdHawk, a comprehensive AI and analytics engine for determining key metrics on audience engagement and campaign performance.

Revel Digital was founded in 2014 and is based in Fargo, North Dakota.

To learn more, visit https://www.reveldigital.com

CONTACT:

Mike Tinnes

[email protected]

SOURCE Revel Digital
Names Mark Bell as New Vice President of Global Finance

VENTURA, Calif., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Athena Cosmetics, Inc., parent company to RevitaLash Cosmetics, the leading brand in lash, brow, and hair enhancement products, has announced the retirement of Gerald "Jerry" Rudolph, VP of Global Finance, who recently celebrated 15 years with Athena Cosmetics.

Rudolph was one of Athena Cosmetics' earliest employees, joining the company in its infancy and spearheading the strategic financial operations of the organization, evolving them through to today. "Jerry has played an integral role in the success of our organization. His dedication, strategic insights, and expertise in finance have been invaluable to our organization," said Dr. Michael Brinkenhoff, Founder and CEO of Athena Cosmetics.

Jerry's final day as VP of Finance at Athena Cosmetics is April 30th. The company will miss him as both a co-worker and a friend and wishes him all the very best in his retirement.

Mark Bell, who has served as Athena Cosmetics' Controller for eleven years working closely with, and under the mentorship of Rudolph, is both ready and excited to assume the position of VP of Global Finance effective May 1st, 2023. In his new role, Mark will provide strategic and operational leadership to the organization, partnering closely with the Executive Management Team and providing the financial leadership and support necessary to achieve current and future business objectives. Mark will report to Dr. Brinkenhoff, with a dotted line to the President and Global CMO, Lori Jacobus.

"We are thrilled to have Mark assume the role of Vice President of Global Finance. Mark has been invaluable to our organization, and his innate knowledge of the business and our operations, as well as his financial acumen make him the right choice to lead our finance team today and into the future," said Dr. Brinkenhoff.

The transition is expected to be seamless, with no disruption to the company's operations or the availability of its products.

About RevitaLash  Cosmetics

RevitaLash Cosmetics is a worldwide leader in developing advanced lash, brow, and hair beautification products. Established in 2006, the collection includes award-winning RevitaLash Advanced Eyelash Conditioner and RevitaBrow Advanced Eyebrow Conditioner, and is available in physician's offices, spas, salons, and specialty retailers across 70 countries. A supporter of non-profit breast cancer initiatives, RevitaLash Cosmetics donates a portion of proceeds to research and education initiatives, giving back to the breast cancer community and honoring its origins. For information: www.revitalash.com. [RevitaLash Advanced is not available in California.]

SOURCE RevitaLash Cosmetics
Eyeing an eventual national footprint, Roamstead, a modernized campground brand, will open its first location  neighboring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park  during summer 2023.

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Roamstead , a collection of modernized campgrounds, officially launched its national brand today and announced the site of its first location, which is adjacent to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP). The first site, and all future Roamstead sites, will offer an enhanced camping experience in an effort to welcome all adventurers to encounter the magic of the outdoors through genuine hospitality and elevated design.

Roamstead mug

"The idea for Roamstead came from our experiences as campers, RV owners, and outdoor destination travelers. Our family loves to visit national parks and we stay at various campgrounds around the country, but many of them have left much to be desired. From cleanliness issues and a general lack of amenities to problematic site layouts and inconsistent service, there is so much opportunity to improve the outdoor experience," said Roamstead co-founder, Thomas Connolly. "Exploring the outdoors doesn't have to be dirty, uncomfortable, or outdated. We hope Roamstead will not only enable current adventure seekers to enjoy their experiences more, but we also hope it will usher in more outdoor destination travelers who've been previously intimidated by, or unattracted to, the thought of camping."

Located in between the GSMNP's Cosby and Greenbriar entrances, and just 25 minutes from the main Gatlinburg, Tennessee, entrance, the initial Roamstead site will offer cabins, RV/camper hookups, yurts, tent sites, and a lodge that includes a pavilion, coffee shop, and fire pits that will encourage communal gathering after a day in the great outdoors. An activity yard, playground, and movie nights will keep the younger adventurers entertained as well. Roamstead guests will also enjoy food and beverage options, including breakfast and dinner items, as well as a selection of regional beers. Similar amenities will be available at all future sites.

"Launching Roamstead is a dream come true, one we can't wait to share with as many people as possible," said Roamstead co-founder, Shannon Connolly. "Humans are healthier, happier, and more fulfilled when they spend time outdoors. Roamstead will tear down as many barriers as possible so more people can access the benefits of our greatest gift: nature."

To learn more about Roamstead or book a reservation, visit https://www.roamstead.com/

About Roamstead

Roamstead was established to welcome all adventurers to experience the magic of the outdoors through genuine hospitality and elevated design. We are modernized campgrounds that offer cabins, camper hookups, yurts, and tent sites. All this, to invite brand new campers to the outdoors while enhancing the experience for seasoned nature-lovers.

SOURCE Roamstead
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. Istanbul Finance Center (IFC) will facilitate the flow of capital to our country, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said at the opening ceremony of the center, Trend reports via TurkicWorld.

Erdogan pointed out that the activities of the IFC will contribute to the country's economy.

Moreover, once the phase related to the relocation of banks to the center is completed, important banking and financial institutions from abroad are expected to be attracted to the IFC. The center will cover 1.3 million square meters of office space, 100,000 square meters of a shopping center, a conference center for 2,100 people, and a five-star hotel. Meanwhile, this project was prepared in 2012 combining various institutions from insurance companies to banks into a single center.
SAN ANTONIO, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Devils River Whiskey has partnered with award-winning Romph Pou Agency to lead its brand development and national marketing strategy. Romph Pou Agency will work to build brand awareness for Devils River Whiskey, drive trials for the eight current whiskey expressions and position the Devils River Distillery as a "must-visit" destination in San Antonio, Texas.

Devils River Whiskey has partnered with award-winning Romph Pou Agency Tweet this Devils River Whiskey

"Working with a brand like Devils River Whiskey provides a unique creative opportunity," said Robert Pou, Romph Pou Agency Principal. "Devils River Whiskey is a bold brand that aims to transcend beyond the traditional bourbon drinking experience. As an agency, we are excited to immerse ourselves into their team, and help further evolve the brand as we support their vision for the future and drive growth."

Devils River Whiskey offers a rich and growing selection of bourbons that have won more than 60 national and international awards since the brand launched in 2017.

Founded in 1981, Romph Pou Agency is a full-service branding, marketing and creative agency that combines data-driven thinking and award-winning creativity to fuel growth for its clients. Romph Pou Agency is the largest full-service agency in Louisiana, with gross annual billings of more than $86 million. The agency is also one of the premier marketing agencies for the gaming industry across the United States, representing a range of nationally known casinos.

"As we look toward the future, we are excited to partner with a marketing agency of the caliber of Romph Pou Agency, which will play a critical role in elevating our brand," stated Mike Cameron, Co-Founder and President of Devils River Whiskey.

"Our brand discovered a partner that can harness the essence of our identity to connect authentically with our traditional customers and further our appeal with emerging customer groups by helping convert them to our award-winning whiskey portfolio," continued Cameron. "With Romph Pou's proven experience, innovative creativity and wide range of in-house capabilities, we know they are the right strategic partner in our highly competitive industry."

About Romph Pou Agency

Romph Pou Agency has more than 100 employees across four office locations in Shreveport, Louisiana; Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Tyler, Texas; and San Antonio, Texas. The agency was established in 1981 in Shreveport. It is the largest full-service marketing agency in Louisiana, representing clients in 20 states. Romph Pou Agency's dedicated team lives by the company motto, "How Fast Is Your Agency?"

Clients include international brands, such as The ICEE Company, Royal Purple Synthetic Oil, WinStar World Casino and Resort, and TruFuel. Other clients include national and regional brands across multiple industries, such as gaming, healthcare, automotive, higher education, zoos, retail and more. To learn more about Romph Pou Agency, visit RPagency.com.

About Devils River Whiskey

Devils River Whiskey (a premium craft spirits company based in San Antonio, Texas) is committed to creating bold Texas whiskey. Devils River Whiskey stands apart from the competition because of its use of the purest water in Texas at the heart of the production process. Founded in 2017, Devils River Whiskey is recognized nationally as an award-winning brand, including multiple SIP Awards, The Fifty Best accolades and International Spirits Competition gold medals. Devils River Whiskey currently offers eight expressions distributed across the U.S. in 34 states via 375 Park Avenue Spirits. Visit DevilsRiverWhiskey.com for more information.

CONTACT:

Carlos de Leon

Romph Pou Agency

(210) 317-1592

[email protected]

SOURCE Romph Pou Agency
Top Business Leaders to Join Sabir Semerkant on #ThisWeekWithSabir

NEW YORK, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Sabir Semerkant, the world-renowned business strategist and entrepreneur, Founder & President of Growth by Sabir, is set to host the next episode of his popular #ThisWeekWithSabir show on 4/19/2023. The show will feature candid conversations with some of the top business leaders in the world.

Sabir X Gary Vaynerchuk (Gary Vee)

Semerkant has a long history of getting exclusive interviews with top business leaders. In the past, he has interviewed the likes of Gary Vaynerchuk, Neil Patel, Matt Higgins, Avinash Kaushik, and other top business leaders. He is known for his ability to get his guests to open up about their personal lives and careers, and to share their insights on entrepreneurship, startup growth, and ecommerce.

In the upcoming episode of #ThisWeekWithSabir, Semerkant will be interviewing a number of business leaders who will be talking about their successes and failures, their personal lives, and their thoughts on the future of business. Some of the business leaders who will be appearing on the show include:

* Oded Netzer and Paul Magnone, the authors of the book "Decisions Over Decimals", who will be talking about their journey to success and their advice for entrepreneurs

* Jason Criddle, a venture capitalist and entrepreneur, who will be talking about his investment strategy and his thoughts on the future of startups

* Lesley Hensell, a business consultant and Amazon expert, who will be talking about her top tips for success on Amazon

* Michael Schein, a business psychologist and expert on secret societies, who will be talking about the psychology of success and how to build and grow a successful business

* Sharon Koifman, a remote work expert and entrepreneur, who will be talking about her tips for managing and succeeding in remote work

* Sarry Ibrahim, a financial expert and entrepreneur, who will be talking about creative financing strategies and how to fund your business

* Michelle Vazzana, a sales expert and entrepreneur, who will be talking about mastering sales agility and how to close more deals

* Matteo Grassi, a serial entrepreneur and investor, who will be talking about his journey to success and his advice for entrepreneurs

* Andrew Dupy, a hybrid publisher and entrepreneur, who will be talking about the future of publishing and how to self-publish a book

* James Fair, a serial entrepreneur and investor, who will be talking about his journey to success and his advice for entrepreneurs

* Mike Del Ponte, a business growth expert and entrepreneur, who will be talking about scaling your business to the million-dollar mark

* Eziah Syed, the founder and CEO of Mend, a healthcare startup, who will be talking about his journey to success and his advice for entrepreneurs

* Amber Spears, an affiliate marketing expert and entrepreneur, who will be talking about how to unlock the power of affiliate marketing

* Hunter Austin, a business growth expert and entrepreneur, who will be talking about scaling to success and how to grow your business without pain

* Jenny Woldt, an accessibility expert and entrepreneur, who will be talking about the importance of ADA compliance and how to make your website accessible to everyone

* Samantha Hartley, a personal finance expert and entrepreneur, who will be talking about personal finance for kids and how to teach your children about money

* Alex Castro, the founder and CEO of KlientBoost, a digital marketing agency, who will be talking about his journey to success and his advice for entrepreneurs

* Marley Majcher, the founder and CEO of Party Goddess, a party planning company, who will be talking about her journey to success and her advice for entrepreneurs

The show is sure to be a must-watch for anyone interested in business and entrepreneurship.

#ThisWeekWithSabir is a weekly show that features interviews with top business leaders, entrepreneurs, and celebrities. The show is hosted by Sabir Semerkant, who is a successful entrepreneur and business strategist. Semerkant has a long history of getting exclusive interviews with top business leaders. He is known for his ability to get his guests to open up about their personal lives and careers.

#ThisWeekWithSabir is a popular show that is watched by millions of people around the world. The show is available on a variety of platforms, including YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter. By the end of this season, the show will be celebrating 100 episodes with top guests and amazing topics.

For more information about #ThisWeekWithSabir, please visit https://growthbysabir.com/liveshow.

Growth by Sabir is an eCommerce strategy consulting firm that helps businesses grow revenue. Our team of experts will work with you to develop and execute a customized growth strategy, and our specialized programs Rapid 2X and Hyper 10X can help you double or even 10x your revenue in 12 or 24 months, respectively. We also offer a private mastermind group where you can connect with other entrepreneurs and learn from their experiences.

Sabir Semerkant, the Founder and President of Growth by Sabir, is a business strategist and entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience in the business world. He has worked with companies of all sizes, from startups to Fortune 500, and he is a master of growth hacking. Sabir is passionate about helping businesses grow and succeed, and he is a valuable resource for entrepreneurs who want to take their businesses to the next level.

Sabir is also the host of the popular show #ThisWeekWithSabir, which features interviews with top business leaders. In this show, Sabir shares his insights on business growth and entrepreneurship. He is a passionate advocate for small businesses, and he believes that anyone can achieve success if they have the right mindset and the right tools.

If you're looking to grow your business, then you need to check out Growth by Sabir. We have the experience, the expertise, and the resources to help you achieve your revenue goals. Contact us today to learn more, and be sure to tune in to #ThisWeekWithSabir for the latest insights on business growth and entrepreneurship.

SOURCE Sabir Semerkant
PALO ALTO, Calif., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Safe Security, the leader in AI-based cyber risk management SaaS platforms, today announced the close of a $50 million Series B round led by Sorenson Capital, with participation from Eight Roads, venture capital arm of Fidelity Investments, Telstra Ventures, WTI, and all existing investors. This round brings the company's total funding to over $100 million.

With the current macroeconomic climate, cybersecurity teams are re-evaluating their cybersecurity investments, which are flush with point solutions that do not provide holistic cyber risk visibility and points of attack exposure. Alongside this financial pressure, external cyber regulation and guidelines stemming from the White House and regulatory bodies, like the SEC and the National Cyber Strategy, are forcing organizations across every industry to rethink their cyber risk management strategies.

Legacy solutions are ill equipped to respond to these new requirements for real time, data-driven cyber risk management. These legacy solutions require organizations to manage multiple spreadsheets and aggregate results, which are highly manual and subjective. They simply do not work. A new approach is now required.

"Tailwinds from regulators, cyber insurance, and boards to understand and quantify cyber risk in an aggregated and granular manner are propelling Safe into this exponential growth phase. Despite economic headwinds, Safe has been growing over 200% for three consecutive years. We are seeing companies across all industries requiring a new approach to quantifying cyber risk in a way that can be communicated across internal stakeholders, boards, government regulations, cyber insurance underwriters, and across the third-party vendor ecosystem," said Saket Modi, CEO and Co-founder at Safe Security. "As we enter this next milestone in the company's journey, we are focusing on continuing to innovate ahead of the market and lead the charge with the industry's only real-time, data-driven platform for managing and mitigating cyber risk."

The Safe Security platform is the industry's first AI driven, real-time solution for managing and mitigating cyber risk. With this new data driven approach, Safe provides organizations an aggregated view of enterprise cyber risk, and cybersecurity teams gain visibility across their entire attack surface, technology, people, and third parties. This visibility enables organizations to move away from a reactive state and take on a predictive posture to understand the likelihood of different cyber risk scenarios. Using Safe's predictive data models, co-developed with MIT, customers are empowered to translate the bits and bytes of cyber risk into dollars and cents.

Safe is the only cyber risk platform that allows CISOs to evaluate their cyber controls' efficacy, mapped with the MITRE ATT&CK and D3FEND frameworks. As well as providing an easy to understand view of enterprise cyber risk for CEOs and CFOs.

Shaun Khalfan, CISO for Discover Financial Services, says, "Discover treats cyber risk as one of the top risks that can have a material impact to our business, and the journey to manage that risk starts from knowing where it stands at any given time. The SAFE platform provides us with a much easier onboarding experience and objectively showcases the risk of business-critical applications and assets. I think cyber risk quantification platforms like SAFE will soon become a must-have for security/business leaders and board members for publicly traded companies."

"Our partnership with Safe Security is a profoundly important market differentiator," said Mark Wheeler, Co-CEO of Global Specialty Carrier, Mosaic Insurance. "Safe's leading technology will enable us to introduce the next generation of cyber underwriting, based on real-time, inside-out data. Their unique analytics, combining exposure assessment with threat valuation, equips our team with invaluable, game-changing information. It's truly exciting."

"Managing cyber risk is at a critical inflection point. There is a huge market opportunity for a horizontal layer across the entire cyber stack for managing risk," said Burke Davis, partner at Sorenson Capital. "We invested in Safe because it is uniquely positioned to assume this leadership role in this new category with its real-time AI-driven approach."

About Safe Security

Safe Security is the leader in cyber risk management SaaS platforms.

It has redefined cyber risk measurement and management with its real time, data driven approach that empowers enterprises, boards, regulators and cyber insurance carriers to understand cyber risk in an aggregated and granular manner.

Using Safe's predictive AI driven data models, co-developed with MIT, customers are now empowered to translate the bits and bytes of cyber risk into dollars and cents so that they can prioritize their cyber investments to most effectively mitigate their risk and understand the return on security investments. Having raised over $100m, Safe is growing over 200% year-over-year and serves some of the largest global enterprises.

Media Contact:

Danielle Ostrovsky

Hi-Touch PR

410-302-9459

[email protected]

SOURCE Safe Security
87-unit, two-story building will offer luxury assisted living and memory care.

SAN CLEMENTE, Calif., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Harbert South Bay Partners announces construction has now begun on THE SEVILLE, a senior living community located at 2421 Calle Frontera, San Clemente, CA 92673. Offering the highest levels of care for both assisted living and memory care, this new luxury community will provide seniors who need assistance throughout the day  or just from time to time  or those living with dementia a lifestyle of ease and grace. The leasing office for THE SEVILLE will open late 2023, with occupancy planned for summer of 2024.

Harbert South Bay Partners, LLC

With a unique design focused on encouraging residents to live at the highest level of ability, developer Harbert South Bay Partners points out apartments within THE SEVILLE will be significantly larger than those in traditional supportive environments for seniors.

"It's almost unheard of for assisted living and memory care residents to have apartments as large and well-equipped as those planned for THE SEVILLE," says Patrick McGonigle, CEO for Harbert South Bay Partners. "Seniors and their families are much more discerning now, and we're giving them lifestyle options they most likely have not imagined were possible in a setting that also provides excellent care."

With walk-in closets and washers and dryers in both assisted living and memory care apartments, and full kitchens in assisted living apartments, residents will have a level of independence not typically seen in senior living communities providing care services.

THE SEVILLE will include 87 units, with 63 of those being assisted living and 24 memory care. Three courtyards will provide secure access to sunshine and ample light inside the planned buildings. The community will offer concierge service, luxury amenities  such as a pool for assisted living residents  and something few senior living communities have  views of the sunset over the Pacific. All of this is punctuated by clinically excellent care for those seniors needing assistance with activities of daily living and those who are experiencing all levels of dementia-related memory disorders.

THE SEVILLE will be managed by Momentum Senior Living, a Southern California-based company providing management and operational services to senior living communities in California.

"We continue to push the boundaries of what wellness for seniors looks like in a community setting," says Josh Johnson, Momentum CEO. "We're excited to see this project grow and take life, and are thrilled to bring this level of elegant assisted living and memory care to families in Southern California."

About Harbert South Bay Partners:

Since 1994, Harbert South Bay Partners has developed superior quality senior living communities, totaling more than 11,000 residences. A key part of Harbert South Bay Partners' business model involves staying on the leading edge of trends that align with today's seniors. This includes pioneering new approaches in building design, as well as partnering with companies that provide safe, high-quality, state-of-the-art care for seniors. Harbert South Bay Partners is headquartered in Dallas, Texas, and has just under 2,000 units under construction or in design/pre-development throughout the U.S.

About Momentum Senior Living:

Orange County-based Momentum Senior Living brings extensive experience guiding senior living communities across the U.S., and particularly in Southern California. Momentum assures a laser focus on helping residents stay connected and inspired through shared events, experiences, tastes and technology. Plus, Momentum's holistic approach encompasses all aspects of life, including the mind, body, spirit and environment. So, residents experience a lifestyle and community culture focused on their total well-being. Headquartered in Southern California, Momentum is uniquely suited to manage senior living in the area with the two principals having served over 4,000 residents in seven senior communities in Southern California.

For further information:

Patrick McGonigle

CEO

Harbert South Bay Partners, LLC

4514 Cole Ave., Suite 1500

Dallas, TX 75205

(214) 370-2650

harbert.net

[email protected]

Josh Johnson

CEO

Momentum Senior Living

18100 Von Karman Ave., Suite 170

Irvine, CA 92612

(833) 937-8229

momentumseniorliving.com

[email protected]

SOURCE Harbert South Bay Partners, LLC
Potential students in the Houston area will have the opportunity to start the registration process for the community college in their fortune cookie.

NEW YORK, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- San Jacinto College has become the first Texas school for higher learning to partner with OpenFortune, one of the fastest growing media platforms that delivers creative advertising via fortune cookies at 47,000 restaurants across the U.S.

OpenFortune and San Jacinto College Fortune Cookie

San Jacinto College is a community college serving East Harris County, Texas, with five campuses and multiple extension centers. OpenFortune is working with San Jacinto College to inspire prospective students during its open enrollment period, by placing fortune cookies in restaurants and delivery bags throughout the region featuring fortunes that motivate the pursuit of higher education.

Along with traditional lucky numbers, fortunes within the cookies will include encouraging messages such as:

It's time for you to pursue your passions.

Stay focused on your purpose, and success will follow.

Keep learning, growing, and improving every day.

The campaign provides the opportunity for tens of thousands of restaurant-goers and those ordering Asian food delivery across the Houston area to receive uplifting fortunes on the front of their slip, while the back features a QR code that delivers information on San Jacinto College's education offerings when scanned.

"We are excited to partner with OpenFortune to help drive enrollment and awareness of San Jacinto College," said San Jacinto College Deputy Chancellor and College President Dr. Laurel Williamson. "We have a robust marketing and outreach strategy that attracts students from throughout our district and beyond, and this fortune cookie advertising campaign is a forward thinking and out-of-the-box approach to help reach potential students. We appreciate the collaboration with OpenFortune and look forward to analyzing the campaign results."

People often discuss important life decisions around a meal or at the dinner table. Through OpenFortune, San Jacinto College will engage people at a moment when they are looking for inspiration and already thinking about what's next in their journey.

"At OpenFortune we believe everyone should have the opportunity to reach their full potential, which is exactly what San Jacinto College is providing to students," said Matt Williams, Co-Founder and Chief Cookie Officer of OpenFortune. "This partnership is so impactful because we are able to motivate these prospective students in such an engaging and unique way."

San Jacinto College serves approximately 41,000 credit and non-credit students annually. It offers more than 200 degrees and certificates across eight major areas of study that put students on a path to transfer to four-year institutions or enter the workforce. The Aspen Institute has designated San Jacinto as one of the top five community colleges in the nation.

For more information on the partnership and OpenFortune operations, visit OpenFortune.com.

About OpenFortune

OpenFortune is a media platform that connects brands to consumers at scale  via fortune cookies. Our clients' branded fortune cookies are distributed to over 47,000 restaurants and delivery platforms nationwide. Through our mass distribution network and sophisticated targeting capabilities, OpenFortune reaches the hands, hearts, and minds of up to 135M consumers every month. Optimism, creativity, and tradition are at OpenFortune's core.

Press Contact:

Nicole Christopoul

Director of Integrated Marketing & Communications

[email protected]

About San Jacinto College

Surrounded by monuments of history, evolving industries, maritime enterprises of today, and the space age of tomorrow, San Jacinto College has served the people of East Harris County, Texas, since 1961. The College is one of the top five community colleges in the nation as designated by the Aspen Institute, and was named an Achieving the Dream Leader College of Distinction in 2020. The College is a Hispanic-Serving Institution that spans five campuses, serving approximately 41,000 credit and non-credit students annually. It offers more than 200 degrees and certificates across eight major areas of study that put students on a path to transfer to four-year institutions or enter the workforce. The College is fiscally sound, holding bond ratings of AA and Aa2 by Standard & Poor's and Moody's.

For more information about San Jacinto College visit sanjac.edu .

SOURCE OpenFortune
AWS Marketplace customers now have access to SAS' advanced analytics to strengthen their MarTech stack

CARY, N.C., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- SAS Customer Intelligence 360 is now available to purchase in AWS Marketplace, a digital catalog with thousands of software listings from independent software vendors that make it easy to find, test, buy, and deploy software that runs on Amazon Web Services (AWS). SAS Customer Intelligence 360, consistently ranked as a leader in independent evaluations, helps global brands shape, manage and deliver superior customer experiences (CX).

SAS Customer Intelligence 360 now available to purchase in AWS Marketplace Tweet this AWS customers now have access to SAS Customer Intelligence 360s accelerated deployment and Martech scalability directly within AWS Marketplace.

AWS customers will now have access to SAS Customer Intelligence 360's accelerated deployment and Martech scalability directly within AWS Marketplace. SAS Customer Intelligence 360 provides customers with the agility to ignite their data, analytics and customer journey activation efforts.

Additionally, being available in AWS Marketplace will help SAS engage new customer sets to bring the power of SAS Customer Intelligence 360 to even more marketers.

"SAS Customer Intelligence 360 is an industry-leading Martech solution that has been assisting marketing leaders to increase the effectiveness of marketing campaigns with AI and real-time decisions for many years," said Mona Chadha, Director of Infrastructure, Category Management and Partner Development. "AWS is delighted to offer this award-winning solution to our customers globally to help them build more intelligent customer journeys and better serve their customers."

"Making SAS Customer Intelligence 360 available in AWS Marketplace is a strong move for both companies," said Gerry Murray, Marketing and Sales Technology Research Director at analyst firm IDC. "AWS brings its customers more access to enhanced Martech capabilities and SAS gains a new sales and delivery channel. It's a win-win that enables both organizations to provide brands with the appropriate technologies to deliver the best digital customer experiences."

SAS Customer Intelligence 360 delivers purpose-built, intelligent marketing for today's modern enterprises. SAS moves brands from data, to insight, to action with rich functionality for adaptive planning, journey activation and real-time decisioning. Brands currently using SAS Customer Intelligence 360 include the Orlando Magic, Telenor, The Nature Conservancy, Ulta Beauty and World Wildlife Fund.

"As a vital component of our overall customer engagement and personalization strategy, SAS Customer Intelligence 360 on top of AWS has helped us leverage data to improve digital fan experiences and consistently rank among league leaders in customer satisfaction scores," said Jay Riola, Senior Vice President of Business Strategy at the Orlando Magic.

"SAS Customer Intelligence 360 has been built with and deployed on AWS since its inception in 2014. This relationship has been crucial to our ability to deliver an agile, market-leading SaaS platform," said Mike Blanchard, Vice President of SAS Customer Intelligence. "This listing in AWS Marketplace now offers a streamlined approach to buying SAS Customer Intelligence 360, furthering SAS' ability to grow and penetrate the market."

Learn more in AWS Marketplace for SAS Customer Intelligence.

About SAS

SAS is the leader in analytics. Through innovative software and services, SAS empowers and inspires customers around the world to transform data into intelligence. SAS gives you THE POWER TO KNOW.

SAS and all other SAS Institute Inc. product or service names are registered trademarks or trademarks of SAS Institute Inc. in the USA and other countries.  indicates USA registration. Other brand and product names are trademarks of their respective companies. Copyright  2023 SAS Institute Inc. All rights reserved.

Editorial Contact:

Angela Lipscomb

[email protected]

919-531-2525

sas.com/news

SOURCE SAS
DENVER, Colo., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Medicine Man Technologies operating as Schwazze, (OTCQX: SHWZ) (NEO: SHWZ) ("Schwazze" or the "Company"), announced that it has signed definitive documents to acquire certain assets of Standing Akimbo LLC ("Standing Akimbo"). The proposed transaction includes the medical cannabis dispensary located at 3801 Jason Street in Denver, Colorado. This acquisition expands the Company's retail consumer base and furthers its growth efforts in the Colorado market, which upon close would bring the Company's total number of operating Colorado dispensaries to 26 (this total excludes two additional Smokey's dispensaries previously announced for acquisition in the second quarter of 2023 as well as a Colorado Springs medical dispensary acquired in 2022).

The consideration for the proposed acquisition is US$10,540,000 and will be paid as US$1,000,000 in cash and US$5,540,000 in Company common stock at closing, and US$4,000,000 in deferred cash payments. The acquisition is expected to close in the third quarter of 2023 upon receipt of approval from the Colorado Marijuana Enforcement Division and local licensing authorities.

Following more than a year of medical cannabis market operating experience in New Mexico, this acquisition marks Schwazze's concerted effort to expand operations in Colorado's $200M+ medical cannabis market. As part of the Standing Akimbo acquisition, Schwazze plans to open a Colorado Springs medical dispensary acquired in 2022 under the Standing Akimbo banner.

"We have tremendous respect for the Standing Akimbo brand and operators. We look forward to the team joining the Schwazze family, continue running their Denver location and also expand service by adding a second location in Colorado Springs," said Nirup Krishnamurthy, President of Schwazze. "We look forward to utilizing Schwazze's operating playbook to support the Standing Akimbo team in their outstanding service to the Colorado medical cannabis community."

Since April 2020, Schwazze has acquired, opened or announced the planned acquisition of 46 cannabis retail dispensaries (bannered as Star Buds, Emerald Fields and R. Greenleaf) as well as seven cultivation facilities and two manufacturing plants in Colorado and New Mexico. In May 2021, Schwazze announced its Biosciences division, and in August 2021 it commenced home delivery services in Colorado.

About Schwazze

Schwazze (OTCQX: SHWZ NEO: SHWZ) is building a premier vertically integrated regional cannabis company with assets in Colorado and New Mexico and will continue to take its operating system to other states where it can develop a differentiated regional leadership position. Schwazze is the parent company of a portfolio of leading cannabis businesses and brands spanning seed to sale. The Company is committed to unlocking the full potential of the cannabis plant to improve the human condition. Schwazze is anchored by a high-performance culture that combines customer-centric thinking and data science to test, measure, and drive decisions and outcomes. The Company's leadership team has deep expertise in retailing, wholesaling, and building consumer brands at Fortune 500 companies as well as in the cannabis sector. Schwazze is passionate about making a difference in our communities, promoting diversity and inclusion, and doing our part to incorporate climate-conscious best practices.

Medicine Man Technologies, Inc. was Schwazze's former operating trade name. The corporate entity continues to be named Medicine Man Technologies, Inc. Schwazze derives its name from the pruning technique of a cannabis plant to enhance plant structure and promote healthy growth. To learn more about Schwazze, visit www.Schwazze.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains "forward-looking statements." Such statements may be preceded by the words "may," "will," "could," "would," "should," "expect," "intends," "plans," "strategy," "prospects," "anticipate," "believe," "approximately," "estimate," "predict," "project," "potential," "continue," "ongoing," or the negative of these terms or other words of similar meaning in connection with a discussion of future events or future operating or financial performance, although the absence of these words does not necessarily mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future events or performance, are based on certain assumptions, and are subject to various known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company's control and cannot be predicted or quantified. Consequently, actual events and results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, risks and uncertainties associated with (i) regulatory limitations on our products and services and the uncertainty in the application of federal, state, and local laws to our business, and any changes in such laws; (ii) our ability to manufacture our products and product candidates on a commercial scale on our own or in collaboration with third parties; (iii) our ability to identify, consummate, and integrate anticipated acquisitions; (iv) general industry and economic conditions; (v) our ability to access adequate capital upon terms and conditions that are acceptable to us; (vi) our ability to pay interest and principal on outstanding debt when due; (vii) volatility in credit and market conditions; (viii) the loss of one or more key executives or other key employees; and (ix) other risks and uncertainties related to the cannabis market and our business strategy. 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 Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K and its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. Investors and security holders are urged to read these documents free of charge on the SEC's website at http://www.sec.gov. The Company assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise its forward-looking statements as a result of new information, future events or otherwise except as required by law.

SOURCE Medicine Man Technologies, Inc.
Auto and property appraisal company expands Sedgwick's capabilities in southern U.S.

MEMPHIS, Tenn., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Sedgwick, a leading global provider of technology-enabled risk, benefits and integrated business solutions, announced it has acquired Appraisal Service of Mississippi, Inc. (ASM), an auto and property appraisal services firm. Through this addition, Sedgwick further expands its premier auto, specialty and property claims solutions and skilled talent network.

Founded in 1988, ASM provides auto and property appraisal services for leading insurance companies throughout Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi and the metropolitan area of Memphis, Tennessee. Its team of appraisers have specialized expertise in automobiles, farm equipment, heavy equipment, motorcycles, recreational vehicles and tractor-trailers.

With ASM, Sedgwick gains the skillsets and capacity of field appraisers who will extend the reach of its auto and property appraisals to more customers and clients. Thanks to ASM's strong presence and experience in the region, the team will be a vital link to providing additional claims resources during hurricane season and other catastrophic events.

"We have partnered with ASM for years through our network, so we are confident this is a good fit and that their colleagues and customers will feel at home with us," said Chris Bakes, Sedgwick managing director of auto solutions. "The team brings to Sedgwick a combination of top-notch experience and technology usage that will enhance our end-to-end management of the claims appraisal process."

"We welcome this next step in our journey and are excited to join the Sedgwick family," said Cary Hill, owner and operator of ASM. "I have worked with many of these colleagues for a long time, and formally joining forces with an industry leader like Sedgwick allows us to connect our services and drive exposure to a wider network. Our team of talented field appraisers looks forward to working as part of Sedgwick's renowned appraisal network."

Sedgwick is the U.S. leader in high-quality auto and heavy equipment appraisal solutions, with cutting-edge technology and a coast-to-coast network of more than 1,000 independent appraisers. More on Sedgwick's auto appraisals solutions and services is available here.

About Sedgwick

Sedgwick is a leading global provider of technology-enabled risk, benefits and integrated business solutions. The company provides a broad range of resources tailored to clients' specific needs in casualty, property, marine, benefits, brand protection and other lines. At Sedgwick, caring counts; through the dedication and expertise of 30,000 colleagues across 80 countries, the company takes care of people and organizations by mitigating and reducing risks and losses, promoting health and productivity, protecting brand reputations, and containing costs that can impact performance. Sedgwick's majority shareholder is The Carlyle Group; Stone Point Capital LLC, Caisse de depot et placement du Quebec (CDPQ), Onex and other management investors are minority shareholders. For more, see sedgwick.com .

About Appraisal Service of Mississippi

Appraisal Service of Mississippi, Inc. offers multiline field appraising for insurance companies, third party administrators (TPAs) fleet managers and leasing services. The company is equipped with a professional team to handle damage estimates for auto, home, heavy equipment, recreational vehicles and more in Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi and the greater Memphis area.

SOURCE Sedgwick
Attorneys praise the strength of clients who alleged 'systemic injustice'

DALLAS, April 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A $1.75 million workplace sexual harassment and discrimination settlement involving several Collin County officials was finalized Monday, according to attorneys for six current and former employees of the county district attorney's office.

The settlement resolves a 2022 federal lawsuit against Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis and First Assistant Bill Wirskye. The lawsuit alleged a pattern of ongoing workplace sexual harassment and discrimination that created a toxic work environment.

"These individuals care very deeply for each other's well-being. That support gave them the courage to stand up for themselves, their rights, and those of their colleagues," said their attorney Jeffrey Simon of Simon Greenstone Panatier, P.C.

The group will share equally in the settlement, which will be paid from the county's insurance policy.

"Legislation adopted in 2021 prohibits sexual harassment settlements from being funded through public funds," said Susan Hutchison, the group's co-counsel, of Hutchison & Foreman, PLLC. "This settlement essentially maxed out the county's available insurance money."

According to the original lawsuit, Mr. Willis engaged in an ongoing pattern of sexually inappropriate actions and comments directed towards colleagues and subordinates in the DA's office. Mr. Wirskye was alleged to have engaged in frequent vitriolic and demeaning behavior and his outbursts fueled the toxic environment.

The lawsuit was Kim Pickrell, Keith Henslee, Fallon LaFleur, Vykim Le, Jane Doe 1, and Jane Doe 2 v. Collin County, Greg Willis, Bill Wirskye, Darrell Hale, Susan Fletcher, Chris Hill, Cheryl Williams, and Duncan Webb, Case No. 3:22-cv-02425-D, in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Texas.

About Simon Greenstone Panatier

With offices in Dallas, Houston, Long Beach, California and New York City, Simon Greenstone Panatier, P.C., is a nationally recognized trial law firm with a reputation for exemplary and zealous representation of clients in a wide variety of litigation areas, including toxic torts, product liability and catastrophic personal injury matters nationwide.

Media Contact:

Rhonda Reddick

800-559-4534

[email protected]

SOURCE Simon Greenstone Panatier, P.C.
NEW YORK, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Dutch Bros Inc. ("Dutch" or the "Company") (NYSE: BROS). Such investors are advised to contact Robert S. Willoughby at [email protected] or 888-476-6529, ext. 7980.

The investigation concerns whether Dutch Bros and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.

[Click here for information about joining the class action]

On February 23, 2023, Hedgeye published a note adding Dutch Bros as a "new short idea," stating that "[t]he relentless focus on excessive unity growth and not balancing that with profitability can create long-term issues for the company" and that "[w]e don't see the company generating enough [operating cash flow] to cover capital spending until FY2026 (and that might be a generous assumption)."

On this news, Dutch Bros' stock price fell $3.97 per share, or 10.45%, to close at $34.02 per share on February 23, 2023.

The Pomerantz Firm, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, and Paris is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, the Pomerantz Firm pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 80 years later, the Pomerantz Firm continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomerantzlaw.com.

CONTACT:

Robert S. Willoughby

Pomerantz LLP

[email protected]

888-476-6529 ext. 7980

SOURCE Pomerantz LLP
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. About 21.3 million tons of cargo were transported from Russia to Turkish ports from January through March 2023, the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure of Turkiye told TurkicWorld, Trend reports.

According to the ministry, ships under the Turkish flag delivered 1.2 million tons of cargo from Russia, while ships under the flags of other countries transported 17.1 million tons.

During this time, ships under the flag of the country delivered 2.9 million tons of cargo to the above ports. Approximately 1.17 million tons of transit cargo, in the reporting period, were transported from the country to the Turkish ports.

Moreover, in the third month of 2023, the specified ports received 31.9 million tons of cargo.

During this period, cargo traffic to domestic ports on ships under the Turkish flag amounted to 2.3 million tons.

At the same time, cargo transportation of vessels under the flags of other countries to the ports reached 29.6 million tons.

In addition, in March of this year, around 6.15 million tons of transit cargo were transported from the ports of Turkiye.

According to the ministry, in the first three months of the current year, the mentioned ports received 91.5 million tons of cargo.

Meanwhile, cargo acceptance by vessels under the Turkish flag in the accounting period totaled 6.4 million tons, while by ships under the flags of other countries, freight to the Turkish ports amounted to 85.8 million tons.

According to the ministry, from January through March 2023, about 18.3 million tons of transit cargo were transported from the above said ports.
NEW YORK, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. ("Fidelity National" or the "Company") (NYSE: FIS). Such investors are advised to contact Robert S. Willoughby at [email protected] or 888-476-6529, ext. 7980.

The investigation concerns whether Fidelity National and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.

[Click here for information about joining the class action]

In 2019, Fidelity National acquired the payment-processing company Worldpay Inc. ("Worldpay") for $48 billion. Then, on February 13, 2023, Fidelity National booked a $17.6 billion write-down on its Worldpay business and announced plans to spin off the unit.

On this news, Fidelity National's stock price fell $9.43 per share, or 12.5%, to close at $66.00 on February 13, 2023.

The Pomerantz Firm, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, and Paris is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, the Pomerantz Firm pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 80 years later, the Pomerantz Firm continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomerantzlaw.com.

CONTACT:

Robert S. Willoughby

Pomerantz LLP

[email protected]

888-476-6529 ext. 7980

SOURCE Pomerantz LLP
NEW YORK, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Rite Aid Corporation ("Rite Aid" or the "Company") (NYSE: RAD). Such investors are advised to contact Robert S. Willoughby at [email protected] or 888-476-6529, ext. 7980.

The investigation concerns whether Rite Aid and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.

[Click here for information about joining the class action]

On March 13, 2023, the U.S. Department of Justice ("DOJ") issued a press release announcing that it had filed a lawsuit against Rite Aid, intervening in a whistleblower lawsuit brought under the False Claims Act against Rite Aid and various subsidiaries, alleging that Rite Aid knowingly filled unlawful prescriptions for controlled substances. The DOJ also announced that it was suing Rite Aid for violations of the Controlled Substances Act.

On this news, Rite Aid's stock price fell $0.71 per share, or 21.65%, over the following two trading sessions, to close at $2.57 per share on March 15, 2023.

Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com.

CONTACT:

Robert S. Willoughby

Pomerantz LLP

[email protected]

888-476-6529 ext. 7980

SOURCE Pomerantz LLP
NEW YORK, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Credit Suisse Group AG ("Credit Suisse" or the "Company") (NYSE: CS), and certain officers. The class action, filed in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey, and docketed under 23-cv-01297, is on behalf of a class consisting of all persons and entities other than Defendants that purchased or otherwise acquired Credit Suisse securities between December 1, 2022 and February 17, 2023, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"), seeking to recover damages caused by Defendants' violations of the federal securities laws and to pursue remedies under Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act") and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder, against the Company and certain of its top officials.

If you are a shareholder who purchased or otherwise acquired Credit Suisse securities during the Class Period, you have until May 8, 2023 to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained at www.pomerantzlaw.com. To discuss this action, contact Robert S. Willoughby at [email protected] or 888.476.6529 (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll-free, Ext. 7980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased.

[Click here for information about joining the class action]

Credit Suisse, together with its subsidiaries, provides various financial services in Switzerland, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, the Americas, and Asia Pacific. The Company offers wealth management solutions, including investment advice and discretionary asset management services; risk management solutions, such as managed investment products; and wealth planning, succession planning, and trust services.

In October 2022, Credit Suisse began experiencing a sharp increase in customer outflows, or withdrawals of client funds, after a series of quarterly losses and risk and compliance failures significantly decreased the Company's American Depositary Share ("ADS") price.

On December 1, 2022, Credit Suisse's Chairman, Defendant Axel P. Lehmann ("Lehmann") stated in an interview with Financial Times that customer outflows had not only "completely flattened out," but had, in fact, "partially reversed."

The following day, in an interview with Bloomberg Television, Defendant Lehmann reiterated his previous statements, reassuring investors that as of November 11, 2022, customer outflows had "basically stopped".

Following Defendant Lehmann's statements, Credit Suisse's ADS price rose $0.29 per ADS, or 9.36%, to close at $3.38 per ADS on December 2, 2022.

The complaint alleges that throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and misleading statements regarding the Company's business, operations, and compliance policies. Specifically, Defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (i) contrary to Defendant Lehmann's representations in December 2022, the sharp increase in customer outflows Credit Suisse began experiencing in October 2022 remained ongoing; (ii) accordingly, Credit Suisse had downplayed the impact of the Company's recent series of quarterly losses and risk and compliance failures on liquidity and its ability to retain client funds; (iii) as a result, Credit Suisse had overstated the Company's financial position and/or prospects; and (iv) as a result, the Company's public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times.

On February 9, 2023, Credit Suisse issued a press release announcing its 2022 financial results. The press release revealed that, contrary to Defendant Lehmann's prior statements, large customer outflows had continued through year-end 2022. Specifically, the press release reported customer outflows of 110.5 billion Swiss francs in the final three months of 2022, a figure which far exceeded market expectations.

On this news, Credit Suisse's ADS price fell $0.56 per ADS, or 15.64%, to close at $3.02 per ADS on February 9, 2023.

Then, on February 21, 2023, Reuters reported that the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority was reviewing Defendant Lehmann's previous comments regarding customer outflows.

On this news, Credit Suisse's ADS price fell another $0.10 per ADS, or 3.31%, to close at $2.92 per ADS on February 21, 2023.

Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com

CONTACT:

Robert S. Willoughby

Pomerantz LLP

[email protected]

888-476-6529 ext. 7980

SOURCE Pomerantz LLP
MIAMI, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Sitero is excited to announce the launch of its next-generation Institutional Review Board (IRB) Services. Above all else, the ethical review of research should protect the participants who help advance science and improve the health of others. Such protections, and the faith in such protections, are necessary to establish and maintain public trust in the research community and in the scientific findings it produces.

A FRESH APPROACH TO IRB SERVICES

Sitero is committed to demonstrating central IRBs can be successful without compromising ethical research standards. We are proud to offer a modern IRB services platform that sets us apart from other providers in the industry through a unique offering built on innovative technology, quality, and transparent pricing. Our Sitero Mentor IRB software is designed to simplify the IRB submission and review process using predictive automation, resulting in increased efficiencies, more timely reviews, and cost savings in a space historically managed by manual and outdated business process.

With our subscription pricing model, clients can easily budget and plan trials without the stress of unexpected fees that are prevalent in the industry today. Our commitment to customer service and quality is at the core of our business model, and we strive to provide exceptional support and guidance to ensure that our clients have the best possible experience without compromising on a foundation of ethics and compliance.

As our growing customer base further adopts our innovative IRB solution, we are excited for our next-generation technology, simplified subscription pricing model, and customer service focus to continue to set us apart from the competition. Our mission is to promote collaboration between institutions, sponsors, investigators, and IRBs to ensure the safety and well-being of research participants are always our top priority. We believe a strict separation of board decisions from business interests is critical to providing the best service to researchers and producing high-quality, trustworthy scientific results.

We are excited to announce Dr. Ronald Januchowski, D.O., as Sitero's IRB Chair. Dr. Januchowski is the Associate Dean for Medical Education at Via College of Osteopathic Medicine and comes to Sitero with more than 13 years of experience in IRB Services. Dr. Januchowski brings a wealth of experience to the Sitero IRB Board with his previous work as an IRB Chair and extensive medical background.

"The industry needs a new IRB service model and Sitero is committed to providing innovative technology-enabled solutions to make our IRB services visible and ultimately accountable to research participants," says Sankesh Abbhi, Sitero's CEO. "Our IRB team partners with our customers to create a patient-centric approach that removes barriers, supports informed consent, and empowers participants," continued Abbhi.

INTEGRATED IRB AND IBC SERVICES

Integrated IBC and IRB services are integral for efficiency. By combining these two critical components of ethical research oversight and biosafety, we are streamlining the review process for our clients through our Sitero Mentor compliance technology platform. Our integrated services offer a single point of contact for sites, study sponsors, and investigators, reducing the administrative burden and allowing for more efficient and effective communication throughout the review process. Additionally, our experienced team of experts provides personalized support and guidance to help ensure that all ethical and regulatory requirements are met, from initial study design to ongoing oversight. We believe our integrated IBC and IRB services will not only enhance the quality of research conducted but will also help advance the development of new treatments for patients.

ABOUT DR. RONALD JANUCHOWSKI

Dr. Ronald Januchowski is a licensed and board-certified Family Practice physician with extensive experience in medical education and training. He has more than 13 years of experience in IRB Services and currently sits as the IRB chair for Spartanburg Medical Center and Sitero. Currently, Dr. Januchowski serves as the Associate Dean for Curriculum, Assessment, and Medical Education at the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine-Carolinas Campus in Spartanburg, South Carolina. Dr. Januchowski maintains his Family Medicine clinical practice at Spartanburg Regional Center for Family Medicine.

Dr. Januchowski has held several leadership positions throughout his career, including Osteopathic Director of Medical Education and Director of Student Medical Education at Spartanburg Regional Medical Center, and Associate Dean for Clinical Affairs at the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine-Carolinas Campus. Dr. Januchowski received his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from the New York College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1993 and completed his Family Practice Residency at Womack Army Medical Center in 1998.

ABOUT SITERO

Sitero is a next-generation, site-focused CRO that helps the life science industry get treatments to market safer and faster through tech-forward services that streamline research. Sitero's clinical, drug safety, biosafety, and ethical review services drive compliance and innovation for more than 100 customers worldwide. Sitero partners with clinical trial sponsors across therapeutic areas and from early-phase studies through late-phase and post-market research. Sitero combines the expertise of a tenured team with a nimble, innovative approach to clinical research. Sitero has offices in the U.S., U.K., and India. Learn more at sitero.com and on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/siterollc.

CONTACT: [email protected]

SOURCE Sitero, LLC
Jumbo Slice Pizza Franchise Continues to Expand Throughout Chicagoland Due to High Demand

CHICAGO, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Slice Factory - a Chicago-based pizza franchise looking to transcend the way the world enjoys pizza by the slice, is happy to announce the soft opening of its newest location in Lyons. The new restaurant, along with its signature morning to late night Slice Thru, will be located at 8744 Ogden Ave. in a thriving area in the Lyons community. All are invited to Slice Factory's newest location for its grand opening celebration on May 13th, with its official ribbon cutting ceremony at 10:30 am, and will be giving away FREE 100 slices to the first 100 guests (limit one slice per person in line). Throughout the rest of the grand opening celebration, the Lyons location will be offer the discount of two jumbo slices for $10. This is an opportunity the Lyons community cannot miss! The franchise is home to Chicago's original jumbo slice and envisions being every neighborhood's favorite pizza shop by offering a unique experience while celebrating both family and food.

Slice Factory of Lyons will provide several unique amenities that will help create a welcoming and exciting pizza experience. A fast, convenient, one-of-a-kind experience is created through their strong focus on innovation. This is evident through their take on drive-thru service, which includes their signature morning to late night Slice Thru. The Slice Thru offers a competitive advantage against competitors and creates a more efficient and quicker process for guests to enjoy a fresh slice of pizza in under 3 minutes. The new location will provide an alcohol and beer bottle service, including locally brewed beers. Also offered are new Cafe gaming slot machines where people can test their luck and potentially come out winners.

"We have seen tremendous success with the Berwyn location throughout the years, but we were not able to serve the entire Lyons community through delivery," said Founder and President of Slice Factory Dom DiDiana. "Now with the new location in Lyons, we can keep up the high demand for our authentic and fresh jumbo slices, and we are thrilled to make a significant impact on the community."

Slice Factory has become known for Chicago's original jumbo pizza slices, ready to be served or delivered whether you're at home, at work, or on the go. In addition to its famous slices, the brand also serves wings, specialty fries, and fresh salads. Slice Factory is also one of the prominent leaders of technological advancements in the pizza industry, being recognized by Pizza Marketplace's "Top 100 Movers and Shakers." Additionally, Slice Factory has a strong focus on community involvement. Partnering with the communities they serve through their "Pizza with Purpose" program, the brand supports local fundraisers and other events.

In addition to the Slice Factory's jumbo slice and other menu offerings, people can enjoy having coffee, donuts, gelato and other pastries with a Sweet Spot partnership with the new Lyons location. The Lyons community can step up their morning routine, bring in friends for a late-night treat or grab a dozen for your colleagues at work with the new Sweet Spot. Sweet Spot values bringing more happiness and creating more smiles day or night, rain or shine.

"We do not plan on slowing down any time soon and are looking to further expand in Countryside and Cicero," said DiDiana. "We plan on growing the Slice Factory brand through our franchising opportunity and entering new markets in and outside the Chicagoland area. We are excited for the future of the franchise and what the Lyons location will offer to the community."

Slice Factory is actively looking for experienced entrepreneurs to expand their brand. Experience working in the food industry is preferred, but not required. The Slice Factory corporate team goes above and beyond to ensure its franchise partners have everything they need to efficiently run their business and continue carrying out its goal of bringing the ultimate family pizza experience. There is a franchise fee of $35,000 with a total investment of $210,000 to $356,000. For more information about Slice Factory or their franchise opportunity, please visit: https://www.franchiseslicefactory.com/.

About Slice Factory

Founded in 1998 and franchising since 2017, Slice Factory's mission is to transcend the way the world enjoys pizza by the slice. The franchise envisions to be every neighborhood's favorite slice shop and offer a unique experience celebrating both family and food. Serving authentic Chicago's original jumbo pizza slices along with a variety of specialty food items through their revolutionary concept, the brand provides guests with a fast and convenient way to enjoy good food. Slice Factory currently has 13 locations operating throughout Chicagoland. For more information on Slice Factory, please visit https://www.theslicefactory.com/ .

Contact: Tom Farrell, Franchise Elevator PR, [email protected], (847) 945-1300 x270

SOURCE Slice Factory
NEW YORK, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- S&P Global (NYSE: SPGI) today published the latest edition in its Look Forward research series, focusing on developments in the private markets.

Private markets have become increasingly integral to financial markets and the real economy, according to the research. The number and breadth of private equity-sponsored companies has grown and the versatility of private credit has transformed it into a competitive source of funding for the leveraged finance market.

While rising rates may expose hazards in both private and public credit markets, it is expected that the private markets will remain an integral source of funding for the future, meeting the needs of new and innovative growth models as well as those of traditional large corporate M&A.

Key findings from the Look Forward: Private Markets research include:

Global private equity- and venture capital-backed M&A investments peaked in 2021, at over $600 billion and even after a 35% pull-back in 2022 remained elevated at over $400 billion .

and even after a 35% pull-back in 2022 remained elevated at over . Private equity buyers led seven of the 10 biggest information technology M&A deals in the US and Canada last year, the highest share recorded in the past 22 years.

last year, the highest share recorded in the past 22 years. Private equity's enormous arsenal of dry powder means there is significant capital to deploy in the right conditions, the question is about its willingness to do so.

$260 billion has been raised for private equity funds targeted to fund the energy transition, including funding that may impact the speed and shape of the transition even more than funding from public markets.

"Private markets have moved off the sidelines and into the spotlight across multiple industries and sectors. While public markets remain essential to the global economy, many companies today have grown to dominant market positions without ever engaging with public financing," said Adam Kansler, President of S&P Global Market Intelligence. "Whether we are talking about private debt or private equity, venture capital or energy infrastructure, the scale of private market financing has reached a point where knowledge of these markets is essential."

The Look Forward research series from the S&P Global Research Council aims to provide a deep dive into the most important themes that are transforming the global economy, helping decision-makers look beyond the near term and explore the trends that will shape our future.

"In a rapidly changing world in which markets transform and evolve at a pace never seen before, new risks and opportunities are constantly emerging, and established wisdom is continually challenged," said Martina Cheung, President of S&P Global Ratings and Executive Sponsor of the S&P Global Research Council. "The Look Forward journal exemplifies the role of S&P Global in powering global markets and provides the perspectives our customers need to focus on the future."

For more insights from Look Forward Private Markets (Volume 2 | April 2023), please visit: https://www.spglobal.com/look-forward/private-markets

For more information about S&P Global Research Council, please visit:https://www.spglobal.com/en/research-insights/featured/research-council

About S&P Global

S&P Global (NYSE: SPGI) provides essential intelligence. We enable governments, businesses and individuals with the right data, expertise and connected technology so that they can make decisions with conviction. From helping our customers assess new investments to guiding them through ESG and energy transition across supply chains, we unlock new opportunities, solve challenges and accelerate progress for the world.

We are widely sought after by many of the world's leading organizations to provide credit ratings, benchmarks, analytics and workflow solutions in the global capital, commodity and automotive markets. With every one of our offerings, we help the world's leading organizations plan for tomorrow, today.

Media Contact

Christopher Krantz

Tel: +44 79 7663 2658

[email protected]

Nadja Jiang

[email protected]

SOURCE S&P Global
HOUSTON, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Starlight Haven, an emerging outdoor hospitality brand, announced the groundbreaking of an expansion project to its Hot Springs, Arkansas location. The project is set to provide guests with a diverse range of unique accommodation options, allowing them to immerse themselves in nature without sacrificing comfort. Starlight Haven plans to start accepting reservations for the new accommodations in Q4 2023.

Starlight Haven will have a variety of lodging options including treehouses, geodesic domes, and safari-style tents. Tweet this Treehouse interior bedroom

"We are elated to transform our site into a premier outdoor hospitality destination," said Kevin Ferguson, Starlight Haven's co-founder. "Our vision is to create a space where our guests can connect with nature, while enjoying the comfort that our accommodations provide. We are confident that this expansion will not only elevate the guest experience but also serve as a gateway, for those who do not consider themselves as outdoorsy, to enjoy the great outdoors."

Once complete, Starlight Haven Hot Springs will have a variety of unique lodging options for visitors to choose from including treehouses, geodesic domes, and safari-style tents. Additionally, guests will have access to a range of on-site amenities and recreational activities. From hiking and biking trails to modern communal areas and a camp store, the expansion project will offer a memorable experience for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike.

"Like the existing treehouses, the novel geodesic domes and safari-style tents will offer magnificent views of the Ouachita Mountains and include en-suite bathrooms, kitchenettes, and HVAC, among other amenities," said Jigar Adhvaryu Starlight Haven's co-founder. "With many natural attractions nearby, the region is well-suited for unique hospitality concepts. We are excited to bring the Starlight Haven brand to Hot Springs."

To stay up to date with the project's progress and receive notifications about reservation availability, visit www.visitstarlight.com or follow the company (@visitstarlight) on social media.

About Starlight Haven:

Starlight Haven is an outdoor hospitality and events company on a mission to make the outdoors more accessible so that everyone can enjoy nature. The company strives to provide the ultimate outdoor experience where guests can enjoy nature in comfortone destination, one shelter and one campfire at a time.

Media Contact:

Starlight Haven Press Team

[email protected]

www.visitstarlight.com

SOURCE Starlight Haven
MELBOURNE, Australia, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Stratus Security, an innovative cybersecurity consultancy, is spearheading a new era in the industry with its game-changing offensive security services. As a trusted partner for businesses seeking to fortify their digital defenses, Stratus Security delivers tailored, proactive solutions to combat cyber threats and protect valuable digital assets.

At the core of Stratus Security's unique value proposition is its proprietary suite of advanced tools and technologies, which dramatically accelerate project delivery while ensuring unparalleled accuracy and results. This, combined with the company's rigorous internal training and battle-tested methodologies, guarantees clients receive comprehensive, consistent, and industry-leading testing to stay ahead of the cyber threat curve.

A recent project highlights Stratus Security's exceptional capabilities: the consultancy identified a critical vulnerability in a widely used web application, which would have caused a significant data breach if found by the wrong person. This was despite it being subject to a bug bounty program and regular penetration testing by other providers. This high-profile discovery underscores Stratus Security's unmatched expertise in the field.

Colin Watson, CTO of Stratus Security, emphasizes the company's relentless pursuit of excellence: "We pride ourselves on our unwavering commitment to innovation, which enables us to provide the most advanced offensive security services in the market. Our mission at Stratus Security is to empower businesses to proactively defend their digital assets and maintain a robust security posture."

Stratus Security actively contributes to the cybersecurity community by sharing valuable insights, resources, and thought leadership through its blog and social media channels. Businesses interested in harnessing Stratus Security's expertise or seeking advice on offensive security matters are encouraged to visit the company's website at https://www.stratussecurity.com or contact the team directly at [email protected].

About Stratus Security

Stratus Security is a leading cybersecurity consultancy specializing in next-generation offensive security services, including penetration testing, vulnerability assessments, and red team exercises. With a team of seasoned professionals and a relentless focus on innovation, Stratus Security enables businesses to proactively safeguard their digital assets and excel in the digital age. For more information, please visit https://www.stratussecurity.com or follow Stratus Security on LinkedIn and Twitter.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Colin Watson

Chief Technology Officer

Stratus Security

Phone: 0414573231

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Stratus Security
150 men suffering from premature ejaculation participated in an extensive 12 week randomized, single-blind, placebo-controlled trial evaluating the effectiveness of Steady Freddy Delay Spray.

LAS VEGAS, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Steady Freddy  an innovator in safe and effective sexual health solutions  today announced the publication of a study in the peer-reviewed American Journal of Men's Health. The study demonstrates the clinical effectiveness of Steady Freddy Delay Spray on premature ejaculation with impressive results of significant improvement in sexual satisfaction.

Steady Freddy Logo

Over 12 weeks, 150 participants in the clinical trial received either a placebo or Steady Freddy Delay Spray. The results were hard to ignore. After only 4 weeks:

- Spray users were 3X more likely to be satisfied with their ability to control their ejaculation;

- 89% of spray users were more or very satisfied with their sex life; and

- Spray usage reduced frustration and anxiety; 58% of users reported feeling content while 79% of placebo users reported feeling frustrated and anxious.

Overall, Steady Freddy Delay Spray helped men last longer, boost confidence levels, and drive confidence in their ability to perform in the bedroom.

"We know that Steady Freddy is an effective solution for delaying ejaculation and the results of this study reflect this," said Dr. David Reiner, Founder and Chief Medical Officer of Steady Freddy. "What was pleasantly surprising is the profound increase in confidence and satisfaction levels experienced by users of the spray. Premature ejaculation can significantly impact a man's sexual and emotional well-being and our ability to help change that is a tremendous success."

Premature ejaculation (PE) is considered the most common sexual dysfunction among men by the International Society for Sexual Medicine  affecting at least 30% of men at some point in their lives.

Steady Freddy Delay Spray's proprietary formula uses lidocaine, a desensitizing anesthetic agent to reduce penis sensitivity in specific areas while maintaining the pleasurable sensation of intercourse.

To read the highlights of the study

https://steadyfreddy.com/study

For more information on Delay Spray, its benefits, and all of Steady Freddy products, visit:

https://steadyfreddy.com

Steady Freddy is a men's sexual health and wellness company committed to creating effective and practical solutions for those seeking to enhance their sexual experience and wellbeing.

This press release was issued through 24-7PressRelease.com. For further information, visit http://www.24-7pressrelease.com.

SOURCE Steady Freddy
New details on how healthy neurons metabolize glucose have implications for understanding neurodegenerative diseases

SAN FRANCISCO, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The human brain has a sweet tooth, burning through nearly one quarter of the body's sugar energy, or glucose, each day. Now, researchers at Gladstone Institutes and UC San Francisco (UCSF) have shed new light on exactly how neuronsthe cells that send electrical signals through the brainconsume and metabolize glucose, as well as how these cells adapt to glucose shortages.

Previously, scientists had suspected that much of the glucose used by the brain was metabolized by other brain cells called glia, which support the activity of neurons.

Scientists from Gladstone and UCSF have shed light on exactly how neurons consume and metabolize glucose, which could have implications for understanding neurodegenerative diseases. Seen here are Ken Nakamura (left), Yoshi Sei (center), and Myriam Chaumeil (right). Photo: Michael Short/Gladstone Institutes

"We already knew that the brain requires a lot of glucose, but it had been unclear how much neurons themselves rely on glucose and what methods they use to break the sugar down," says Ken Nakamura, MD, PhD, associate investigator at Gladstone and senior author of the new study published in the journal Cell Reports. "Now, we have a much better understanding of the basic fuel that makes neurons run."

Past studies have established that the brain's uptake of glucose is decreased in the early stages of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. The new findings could lead to the discovery of new therapeutic approaches for those diseases and contribute to a better understanding of how to keep the brain healthy as it ages.

Simple Sugar

Many foods we eat are broken down into glucose, which is stored in the liver and muscles, shuttled throughout the body, and metabolized by cells to power the chemical reactions that keep us alive.

Scientists have long debated what happens to glucose in the brain, and many have suggested that neurons themselves don't metabolize the sugar. They instead proposed that glial cells consume most of the glucose and then fuel neurons indirectly by passing them a metabolic product of glucose called lactate. However, the evidence to support this theory has been scantin part because of how hard it is for scientists to generate cultures of neurons in the lab that do not also contain glial cells.

Nakamura's group solved this problem using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS cells) to generate pure human neurons. IPS cell technology allows scientists to transform adult cells collected from blood or skin samples into any cell type in the body.

Then, the researchers mixed the neurons with a labeled form of glucose that they could track, even as it was broken down. This experiment revealed that neurons themselves were capable of taking up the glucose and of processing it into smaller metabolites.

To determine exactly how neurons were using the products of metabolized glucose, the team removed two key proteins from the cells using CRISPR gene editing. One of the proteins enables neurons to import glucose, and the other is required for glycolysis, the main pathway by which cells typically metabolize glucose. Removing either of these proteins stopped the breakdown of glucose in the isolated human neurons.

"This is the most direct and clearest evidence yet that neurons are metabolizing glucose through glycolysis and that they need this fuel to maintain normal energy levels," says Nakamura, who is also an associate professor in the Department of neurology at UCSF.

Fueling Learning and Memory

Nakamura's group next turned to mice to study the importance of neuronal glucose metabolism in living animals. They engineered the animals' neurons but not other brain cell typesto lack the proteins required for glucose import and glycolysis. As a result, the mice developed severe learning and memory problems as they aged.

This suggests that neurons are not only capable of metabolizing glucose, but also rely on glycolysis for normal functioning, Nakamura explains.

"Interestingly, some of the deficits we saw in mice with impaired glycolysis varied between males and females," he adds. "More research is needed to understand exactly why that is."

Myriam M. Chaumeil, PhD, associate professor at UCSF and co-corresponding author of the new work, has been developing specialized neuroimaging approaches, based on a new technology called hyperpolarized carbon-13, that reveal the levels of certain molecular products. Her group's imaging showed how the metabolism of the mice's brains changed when glycolysis was blocked in neurons.

"Such neuroimaging methods provide unprecedented information on brain metabolism," says Chaumeil. "The promise of metabolic imaging to inform fundamental biology and improve clinical care is immense; a lot remains to be explored."

The imaging results helped prove that neurons metabolize glucose through glycolysis in living animals. They also showed the potential of Chaumeil's imaging approach for studying how glucose metabolism changes in humans with diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

Finally, Nakamura and his collaborators probed how neurons adapt when they are not able to get energy through glycolysisas might be the case in certain brain diseases.

It turned out neurons use other energy sources, such as the related sugar molecule galactose. However, the researchers found that galactose was not as efficient a source of energy as glucose and that it could not fully compensate for the loss of glucose metabolism.

"The studies we have carried out set the stage for better understanding how glucose metabolism changes and contributes to disease," says Nakamura.

His lab is planning future studies on how neuronal glucose metabolism changes with neurodegenerative diseases in collaboration with Chaumeil's team, and how energy-based therapies could target the brain to boost neuronal function.

About the Study

The paper "Neurons Require Glucose Uptake and Glycolysis In Vivo" was published online in the journal Cell Reports on April 6, 2023.

The first authors are Huihui Li and Yoshitaka Sei of Gladstone and Caroline Guglielmetti of UCSF. Other authors are Misha Zilberter, Lauren Shields, Joyce Yang, Kevin Nguyen, Neal Bennett, Iris Lo, and Yadong Huang of Gladstone; Lydia M. Le Page, Brice Tiret, Xiao Gao, and Martin Kampmann of UCSF; Talya L. Dayton and Matthew Vander Heiden of Massachusetts Institute of Technology; and Jeffrey C. Rathmell of Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

The work was supported by the National Institutes of Health (RF1 AG064170, R01 AG065428, AG065428-03S1, R01 NS102156, R21 AI153749 and RR18928), National Institute on Aging (R01 AG061150, R01 AG071697, P01 AG073082, R01 CA168653, R35 CA242379, R01 DK105550), the UCSF Bakar Aging Research Institute, the Alzheimer's Association, a Bright Focus Foundation Award, a Berkelhammer Award for Excellence in Neuroscience, and a Chan Zuckerberg Initiative Neurodegeneration Challenge Network Ben Barres Early Career Acceleration Award.

About Gladstone Institutes

Gladstone Institutes is an independent, nonprofit life science research organization that uses visionary science and technology to overcome disease. Established in 1979, it is located in the epicenter of biomedical and technological innovation, in the Mission Bay neighborhood of San Francisco. Gladstone has created a research model that disrupts how science is done, funds big ideas, and attracts the brightest minds.

Media Contact: Julie Langelier | Associate Director, Communications | [email protected] | 415.734.5000

SOURCE Gladstone Institutes
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. A total of 925 passenger cars were manufactured in Azerbaijan from January through March 2023, which is 486 cars more than in the same period of the previous year, Azerbaijan's State Statistics Committee told Trend.

During the reporting period, 124 million manat ($72.9 million) worth of products were manufactured in the industries of machinery and equipment, vehicles, cars, trailers and semi-trailers. In comparison with the same period of the previous year, the manufacture of cars, trailers and semi-trailers increased by 2.1 times, machinery and equipment, by 25.4 percent, and the manufacture of other vehicles decreased by 0.4 percent.

Furthermore, the manufacture of tractors increased by 82.4 percent from January through March 2023 compared to the same period of the previous year.

In terms of car imports, Azerbaijan imported 13,939 cars in the first two months of this year. This figure is 25 percent or 2,794 cars, more than in the same period of the previous year. A significant share of imports fell on passenger cars, which totaled 12,951, up by 25.25 percent, or 2,611 cars, compared to the same period in 2022.
Bharat Ayyar Succeeds Alejandro Bergad, Sunsoil's Co-Founder and New Chief Vision Officer

BURLINGTON, Vt., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Sunsoil , a certified organic hemp farm and top-five CBD brand, announced the appointment of Bharat Ayyar as CEO. Ayyar succeeds the company's co-founder Alejandro Bergad, who will remain on Sunsoil's leadership team as its Chief Vision Officer and member of the Board of Directors.

Ayyar first came across Sunsoil in 2018, when he made his first purchase from the company (then called Green Mountain CBD). Five years later, he takes over as the company's CEO, as Sunsoil sets its sights on becoming the market leader in CBD.

Bharat Ayyar

"Sunsoil is uniquely positioned to serve consumers," says Ayyar. "We're vertically integrated with our farms in Vermont. We have a uniquely efficient and natural process for making CBD oil. This means we can offer certified organic CBD oil at half the cost of what other brands sell for  all while being profitable."

Since joining the company in 2020, Ayyar has seen the CBD industry face a number of challenges  from the uncertain regulatory environment to the pandemic's impact on Sunsoil's retail partners.

Still, Sunsoil has found success. The company has doubled the size of its ecommerce business and signed major distribution deals, including most recently in 2023 a partnership with Sprouts Farmers Market.

Ayyar plans to grow Sunsoil by leaning into the company's core strength and mission: making the highest-quality, organic CBD at the lowest prices in the industry.

"At today's prices, CBD is a luxury product  but it has the potential to help millions of people," says Ayyar. "CBD is going to be on your pharmacy's shelf one day right next Advil  but prices have to come way down without sacrificing quality. We're going to make that happen."

Bergad, who previously served as CEO since founding Sunsoil in 2015, will transition to his new role as the company's Chief Vision Officer. In that role, he'll focus on innovations in agriculture, processing and manufacturing that will allow Sunsoil to further reduce its prices over time.

"This is an exciting new chapter for Sunsoil," says Bergad. "We've been at this for eight years, but in many ways we are still at the beginning of our story  our mission to bring great CBD to the people."

Ayyar is an experienced leader with a background in marketing, ecommerce, and strategy. Prior to Sunsoil, he was the General Manager of Simple Contacts, a direct-to-consumer telemedicine startup, and the CEO and co-founder of Conductor, a mobile transportation app startup. He is a graduate of Yale University and the Stanford Graduate School of Business.

ABOUT SUNSOIL

Sunsoil is a vertically integrated, organic CBD brand based in Vermont. Sunsoil is on a mission to create affordable access to the highest-quality CBD products through its innovative farming and manufacturing practices. One of the top five CBD brands in the country, Sunsoil offers organic CBD tinctures, capsules and gummies. Sunsoil pioneered a better way to make CBD oil called "whole-plant infusion"  departing from the standard industry practice of CO2 or alcohol extraction  because it involves minimal processing of the plant and is naturally cost-effective. For more information, visit, https://sunsoil.com and follow along on http://instagram.com/sunsoil.

MEDIA CONTACT

Elaine LaPersonerie

WinkPR

9179304080

[email protected]

SOURCE Sunsoil
Achieves Sell and Service Expertise in Cloud and Sell Expertise in the License & Hardware Track in Public Sector

HERNDON, Va., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Systems Intelligence, an Akima Company, today announced that it has achieved Sell and Service Expertise in Cloud and Sell Expertise in License & Hardware. An SBA-certified 8(a) Alaska Native Small Business and a member of Oracle PartnerNetwork (OPN), Systems Intelligence achieved this Expertise by meeting a comprehensive set of requirements that are based on the needs and priorities of Oracle customers.

Expertise is a core tenet of the modernized Oracle PartnerNetwork (OPN) program and allows Oracle partners to highlight their capabilities in a focused area. Ultimately, Expertise is designed to make it easy for customers to identify partners that can deliver quality results and minimize risk for their specific needs as they adopt Oracle technology.

To achieve Sell Expertise a partner must demonstrate their experience and success in the resell of specific Oracle software licenses, hardware products, or Oracle Cloud technology within a defined geographic region. Achieving Service Expertise requires demonstration of experience and success implementing, deploying and/or managing a specific Oracle Cloud product/service area. Learn more about Expertise, including viewing the complete Expertise Catalog, at www.oracle.com/partnernetwork/expertise.

As part of the Akima portfolio of companies, Systems Intelligence draws from 20 years of Oracle experience, providing excellent service that address public sector customers' IT modernization initiatives. System Intelligence's consultative process offers critical insights, anticipates challenges and delivers mission-focused solutions.

"Systems Intelligence's relationship with Oracle builds upon established experience and past performance across Akima. With this achievement, I'm looking forward to expanding the value we bring to our customers," said Juvy McCarthy, President of Akima's Technology Solutions and Products Group.

"We are excited to support our federal customers with innovative Oracle solutions that meet their mission-critical needs and offer a streamlined procurement path," said Mary Colville, General Manager of Systems Intelligence.

About Systems Intelligence

Systems Intelligence is an SBA-certified 8(a) company and wholly owned subsidiary of Akima, an Alaska Native Corporation, providing agile, innovative, and trusted IT solutions to the federal government and federal integrator community. Our capabilities allow customers to implement and evolve IT infrastructures to achieve, maintain and advance functionality, efficiency, security, and compliance. To learn more visit www.systemsintelligencellc.com.

About Oracle PartnerNetwork

Oracle PartnerNetwork (OPN) is Oracle's partner program designed to enable partners to accelerate the transition to cloud and drive superior customer business outcomes. The OPN program allows partners to engage with Oracle through track(s) aligned to how they go to market: Cloud Build for partners that provide products or services built on or integrated with Oracle Cloud; Cloud Sell for partners that resell Oracle Cloud technology; Cloud Service for partners that implement, deploy and manage Oracle Cloud Services; and License & Hardware for partners that build, service or sell Oracle software licenses or hardware products. Customers can expedite their business objectives with OPN partners who have achieved Expertise in a product family or cloud service. To learn more visit: http://www.oracle.com/partnernetwork

Trademarks

Oracle, Java and MySQL are registered trademarks of Oracle Corporation.

SOURCE Akima
Becker's Hospital Review names Lara Klick a health system chief experience officer to know.

TAMPA, Fla., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- For her leadership and dedication to serving patients and families, Lara Klick, vice president of Patient Experience, Tampa General Hospital (TGH), has been named to Becker's Hospital Review's 2023 list of "50+ Health System Chief Experience Officers to Know." Chief experience professionals and patient experience professionals are interchangeable terms.

This is the second year that Becker's Hospital Review has honored Klick. She was named to the national digital and print publication's 2022 list of Outstanding Chief Experience Officers.

For her leadership and dedication to serving patients and families, Lara Klick, vice president of Patient Experience, Tampa General Hospital (TGH), has been named to Beckers Hospital Reviews 2023 list of 50+ Health System Chief Experience Officers to Know.

Honorees were selected by Becker's Hospital Review for their ability to balance the best interests of caregivers, patients and hospital leadership to improve and to deliver excellent care and patient experiences. A patient experience officer is a skilled communicator who advocates for respectful care for patients. They help ensure equitable care and cultural transformation among health care clinicians and staff through team member training, education, patient surveys, data analysis and a focus on patient experience best practices  all resulting in better patient outcomes.

"It's an honor to be recognized and this is possible because of the dedication and commitment of our Patient Experience team here at Tampa General," said Klick, who has more than two decades of expertise specializing in patient experience. "I'm so proud of our Patient Experience team and the extraordinary work they do to elevate patient care."

The Patient Experience team at Tampa General is dedicated to informing, educating and guiding hospital clinicians and support teams on best practices and methods to enhance compassionate communication with patients and their families with a focus on patient-centered care. The essence of patient-centered care includes support for:

Coordination, continuity, transition and integration of patient care

Collaborative care planning with the patient and their family

Respect for patients' values, preferences and expressed needs

Support for accessing care

Emotional support

Physical comfort

"Tampa General's Patient Experience team is integral to ensuring patients are receiving care that is respectful of and responsive to individual patient preferences and needs and, above all, that they feel valued," said Tampa General Executive Vice President and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Peggy Duggan. "Lara and her team advocate for our patients, families and our Tampa General team members every day. She's an exceptional leader and much deserving of this national recognition."

Included among Tampa General's patient experience programs is its Patient Family Advisory Council (PFAC). The council is a diverse group of former patients or family members of patients who meet regularly to advise the academic medical center on patient experience from ways to enhance patient education and safety to providing feedback on facility design and patient accessibility. The council provides valuable insight that helps Tampa General's providers and staff better understand patient needs beyond clinical care.

Other ways Klick and the hospital's Patient Experience team dedicate themselves to understanding the patient voice include utilizing:

Patient surveys and analysis of patient data

"Power Hours" that bring together nurse leaders to share feedback and evidence-based health care best practices for reviewing patient status and care plans

Free, qualified language interpretation services and aides for patients in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act

Hospital chaplains to monitor the spiritual health of patients, their families and Tampa General team members

"Patient Experience in health care is internationally recognized as an important indicator of the quality of medical care," Klick said. "Tampa General and our Patient Experience team are committed to making sure that people feel safe and comfortable when in our care and that we continue to grow and integrate new methods and ways of communicating that enrich the patient journey."

The complete 2023 list of 50+ Health System Chief Experience Officers to Know may be viewed here.

ABOUT TAMPA GENERAL HOSPITAL

Tampa General Hospital, a 1,040-bed, not-for-profit, academic medical center, is one of the largest hospitals in America and delivers world-class care as the region's only center for Level l trauma and comprehensive burn care. Tampa General Hospital is the highest-ranked hospital in the market in U.S. News & World Report's 2022-23 Best Hospitals, and is tied as the third highest-ranked hospital in Florida, with seven specialties ranking among the best programs in the United States. Tampa General Hospital has been designated as a model of excellence by the 2022 Fortune/Merative 100 Top Hospitals list. The academic medical center's commitment to growing and developing its team members is recognized by two prestigious Forbes magazine rankings  first nationally in the 2022 America's Best Employers for Women and sixth out of 100 Florida companies in the 2022 America's Best Employers by State. Tampa General is the safety net hospital for the region, caring for everyone regardless of their ability to pay, and in fiscal year 2021, provided a net community benefit worth more than $224.5 million in the form of health care for underinsured patients, community education, and financial support to community health organizations in Tampa Bay. It is one of the nation's busiest adult solid organ transplant centers and is the primary teaching hospital for the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine. With six medical helicopters, Tampa General Hospital transports critically injured or ill patients from 23 surrounding counties to receive the advanced care they need. Tampa General houses a nationally accredited comprehensive stroke center, and its 32-bed Neuroscience, Intensive Care Unit is the largest on the West Coast of Florida. It also is home to the Jennifer Leigh Muma 82-bed neonatal intensive care unit, and a nationally accredited rehabilitation center. Tampa General Hospital's footprint includes 17 Tampa General Medical Group Primary Care offices, TGH Family Care Center Kennedy, TGH Brandon Healthplex, TGH Virtual Health, and 21 TGH Imaging powered by Tower outpatient radiology centers throughout Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas and Palm Beach counties. Tampa Bay area residents also receive world-class care from the TGH Urgent Care powered by Fast Track network of clinics. To see a medical care professional live anytime, anywhere on a smartphone, tablet or computer, visit Virtual Health | Tampa General Hospital (tgh.org). As one of the largest hospitals in the country, Tampa General Hospital is the first in Florida to partner with GE Healthcare and open a clinical command center that provides real-time situational awareness to improve and better coordinate patient care at a lower cost. For more information, go to www.tgh.org.

Media Contact: Beth Hardy, APR

Senior Communications Specialist

(813) 844-7322 (direct)

(813) 510-6363 (cell)

[email protected]

SOURCE Tampa General Hospital
NEW YORK, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Klein Law Firm announces that a class action complaint has been filed on behalf of shareholders of Target Corporation (NYSE: TGT) alleging that the Company violated federal securities laws.

Class Period: August 18, 2021 to May 17, 2022

Lead Plaintiff Deadline: May 30, 2023

No obligation or cost to you.

Learn more about your recoverable losses in TGT:

https://www.kleinstocklaw.com/pslra-1/target-corporation-lawsuit-loss-submission-form?id=38312&from=4

Target Corporation NEWS - TGT NEWS

CLASS ACTION CASE DETAILS: The filed complaint alleges that Target Corporation made materially false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (i) Target's difficulty maintaining a balanced inventory of in-demand goods was far worse than the Company had represented; (ii) Target was severely impacted by changing consumer preferences; (iii) Target's inventory mix was significantly more sensitive to changing consumer preferences due to Target's practice of buying larger quantities ahead of season, and was therefore at significant risk of having to use markdowns to sell out-of-demand goods; and (iv) as a direct result of these changing preferences, Target's inventory increasingly became out-of-balance and overweight in bulky and unsellable goods throughout the Class Period forcing Target to markdown its out-of-demand goods, thereby negatively impacting revenue.

WHAT THIS MEANS TO YOU AS A SHAREHOLDER: If you have suffered a loss in Target you have until May 30, 2023 to petition the court for lead plaintiff status. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as a lead plaintiff.

NO COST TO YOU: If you purchased Target securities during the relevant period, you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out-of-pocket fees.

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR FINANCIAL INTERESTS: For additional information about the TGT lawsuit, please contact J. Klein, Esq. by telephone at 212-616-4899 or click this link: https://www.kleinstocklaw.com/pslra-1/target-corporation-lawsuit-loss-submission-form?id=38312&from=4.

ABOUT KLEIN LAW FIRM

J. Klein, Esq. represents investors and participates in securities litigations involving financial fraud throughout the nation. The Klein Law Firm is a boutique litigation firm with experience in a wide range of areas including securities law, corporate finance and commercial litigation. Since 2011, our experienced attorneys have achieved superior results for our clients with a personalized focus. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.

CONTACT:

J. Klein, Esq.

535 Fifth Avenue

4th Floor

New York City, NY 10017

[email protected]

Telephone: (212) 616-4899

www.kleinstocklaw.com

SOURCE The Klein Law Firm
Announces Inaugural International Conference on Indigenous Language Documentation, Education, and Revitalization (ICILDER),

Presents First Annual Kevin Locke Award to Council of Indigenous Organizations (CILO) for Notable Commitment to Language Revitalization

NEW YORK and BLOOMINGTON, Ind., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Language Conservancy (TLC), a nonprofit dedicated to Indigenous language revitalization, today unveiled the world's largest collection of Native American language learning materials at the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII). The event took place against the backdrop of The United Nation's International Decade of Indigenous Languages (2022-2032), designed to raise awareness of the urgent need for Indigenous language revitalization. Out of the 6,700 languages spoken worldwide, forty percent are in danger of disappearing. At this rate, 90-95 percent of all languages will become extinct in the next 100 years.

At the event, Serafin M. Coronel-Molina, Professor of Literacy, Culture, and Language Education at Indiana University and native speaker of Huanca Quechua, and Wil Meya, Chairman of TLC, unveiled the largest collection of Native American language learning materials, which the nonprofit has produced in partnership with Tribes, etc. over the past two decades. Serafin and Wil presented a massive display of dictionaries, children's books, e-learning platforms, and other materials produced and published in 47 Indigenous languages. This included the historic 3rd Edition New Lakota Dictionary, the largest Native American dictionary in the world. To meet the urgent need for language revitalization, and in recognition of The UN's International Decade of Indigenous Languages, in 2023 TLC and its partners are planning to release 187 new indigenous language learning materials (books, dictionaries, apps, etc.)  the largest number of Indigenous language materials created in one year's time.

The Language Conservancy Unveils Largest Collection of Indigenous Language Learning Materials in the World at UN Forum Tweet this

TLC also announced its partnership with the Council of Indigenous Language Organizations (CILO) in hosting the first annual International Conference on Indigenous Language Documentation, Education, and Revitalization (ICILDER) on October 12-14 in Bloomington, IN, where TLC is headquartered. It brings together Indigenous First Language speakers, language experts, linguists, scholars, and practitioners from around the world to discuss the pressing issue of Indigenous language documentation and revitalization.

At the UNPFII, TLC bestowed the first annual Kevin Locke Award to CILO for its extraordinary efforts to advance Native American language revitalization. The award was created to honor the legacy of the late Native American language champion, musician, artist, and educator. In honor of Locke, this award will be given annually to individuals and organizations that have demonstrated a commitment to Indigenous language revitalization.

"Today's events and announcements bring worldwide attention to the urgent need for Indigenous language revitalization," said Wil Meya, CEO and Chairman, TLC. "We have real momentum and need to continue to elevate awareness. We can make a significant impact with the support of our partners, funders, new technology, schools, and language champions  to preserve language, traditions, and culture for generations to come. We are here to rally for that support."

About the Language Conservancy

The Language Conservancy is a nonprofit organization leading the way in Native American language revitalization. Over the past 20 years, TLC has worked with Indigenous communities around the world to create an unmatched body of language learning materials. Earlier this year, they introduced the 3rd Edition New Lakota Dictionary, the largest Native American Dictionary in the world, and a series of apps, largely geared to Native American youth, which instantly translate indigenous languages into English and vice versa. To date, TLC has published 319 materials in a wide range of formats and in 47 different Indigenous languages in the U.S., Canada, and Australia. Reflecting the urgency of language revitalization, the organization has accelerated its effort. In 2023, TLC's Tribal Partners will publish 187 new language revitalization materials, including apps, dictionaries, books, and videos  the largest collection ever assembled in 12 months' time. For more information, visit TLC or call Rosica Communications at 201-843-5600.

SOURCE The Language Conservancy (TLC)
New White Paper Explores the Relationship between Poverty and Health

COLUMBIA, Md., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- AbsoluteCare, a healthcare organization that provides care beyond medicine for its members, is pleased to announce the release of "The Need for Need-Based Care," by Anoop Raman, MD, MBA, the company's Chief Medical Officer, Complex Care.

The new paper explores the connection between poverty and health. Lower income Americans, research shows, are more prone to diseases like diabetes, stroke, depression, and heart disease. They're more likely to have severe complications from COVID. Infant mortality is higher, and life expectancy is lower.

How do we give these Americans a fair shot at excellent health? "I think the answer lies in providing care based on need rather than ability to pay, which is exactly what we do here at AbsoluteCare," said Dr. Raman, the paper's author. "Private practice physicians have focused on seeing as many patients as possible. Value-based healthcare has changed all that, focusing on patient outcomes rather than volume." It's quality over quantity, in other words, and that one change is a major step toward health equity.

Another is addressing physical, behavioral, and social issues all at once. Patients who can't afford time off for medical care are less likely to attend follow-up appointments and preventive screening visits. They're also less likely to visit the physician when they have no transportation.

"Housing, transportation, and food are a huge part of healthcare. These are things many of us take for granted," said Mike Radu, AbsoluteCare CEO. "Without a place to store medications, healing foods, and rides to appointments, it's unlikely that a person with a chronic condition has an equal opportunity to get well. That's why we address social drivers of health in our comprehensive care centers and in the communities we serve."

Read "The Need for Need-Based Care" here: https://bit.ly/ABC_need-based-care_WP

About AbsoluteCare

Headquartered in Columbia, Maryland, AbsoluteCare is a leading value-based integrated healthcare provider. We go beyond medicine to provide comprehensive and preventive care to the most vulnerable populations. AbsoluteCare offers health services using a risk-bearing, PCP-driven care model. We treat the most clinically complex members of the communities we servemany of whom face behavioral health, substance use, and SDoH challenges. AbsoluteCare tends exclusively to the needs of the high-risk population who persistently represent a disproportionate amount of unnecessary utilization and cost, regardless of whether they are engaged with other PCPs. We deliver this care in our Comprehensive Care Centers as well as in the communities we serve. In our more than 20 years, AbsoluteCare has consistently achieved unprecedented outcomes by addressing medical and psychosocial issues, as well as life's hardships that exacerbate chronic health conditions and complicate access to care. AbsoluteCare currently operates in seven markets: Baltimore and Prince George's County, MD; Cleveland and Columbus, OH; New Orleans, LA; and Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, PA.

For more information, visit absolutecare.com.

Contact: Lauren Cutruzzula

410-504-6971

[email protected]

SOURCE AbsoluteCare
It wants to bring awareness about and address high cost of remittance

SINGAPORE, April 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Tranglo is proud to announce the success of our sponsorship of the 3rd Inficare Futsal Tournament in Nepal.

The tournament, organised by leading software fintech Inficare Pvt Ltd, was held at Dhanyentari Futsal, Kathmandu, Nepal, on 1 April and 8 April. It aims to raise awareness about faster and cheaper remittance services to the country.

Tranglo is the main sponsor of the 3rd Inficare Remitters Futsal Tournament in Nepal which aims to bring awareness about the importance of remittance in the country.

Remittance is a major GDP contributor for Nepal, which comes close to 23%. About 56% of Nepali households rely on remittances, making lowering costs and improving accessibility a crucial goal.

Thirteen remittance companies and financial institutions participated in the tournament. The winner and 1st runner-up bagged NPR 75,000 and NPR 25,000, respectively.

Tranglo Group CEO Jacky Lee and SVP of GCC & South Asia Sohail Ahmad watched the tournament finals and presented trophies to the winners at the Aloft Kathmandu Thamel Hotel.

Jacky said supporting Tranglo's partners in Nepal to promote financial inclusion was an easy decision.

He added: "Nepal is an important corridor. While 80% of Nepali workers abroad still choose the Gulf nations and Malaysia, an increasing number of them are heading for Japan, South Korea and Europe. We are expanding our network of cash pickup services, bank and e-wallet transfers in these countries to give them more options to remit money."

Inficare CEO Anoop Sherchan thanked Tranglo for its contributions and said the futsal tournament aimed to foster strong relationships among the remittance companies in Nepal.

Tranglo helps financial institutions and businesses pay through Tranglo Connect , its proprietary cross-border payments solution. Tranglo maintains a vast network of payout channels in Nepal, such as 24/7 instant account deposits to all major banks, flexible cash pickups and direct-to-wallet transfers.

About Tranglo

Tranglo is a cross-border payment hub with a proven track record in business payment, foreign remittance and mobile payment solutions. Founded in 2008, we have offices in Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Jakarta, Dubai and London. Our global network spans over 150 countries, 600 mobile operators, 1,300 banks/wallets and 140,000 cash pickup points. Tranglo is a proud partner of Ripple, the leading enterprise blockchain solutions for global payments. We now offer enhanced cross-border payout services with an even wider coverage through RippleNet, Ripple's global payment network. To find out more, visit www.tranglo.com , LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter.

SOURCE Tranglo Pte Ltd
Winnipeg local and travel expert Taylor Herperger steps up to the role of Director of Marketing, setting sights on elevating Travel Lemming into a leading global travel brand.

DENVER, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Travel Lemming ( https://travellemming.com/ ), a US-based online travel guide with an annual readership of over 10 million, has appointed Taylor Herperger as its new Director of Marketing.

Taylor Herperger will be charged with growing the Travel Lemming brand and expanding the publication's position as the go-to source for travelers seeking authentic, local travel advice and reviews.

Taylor Herperger, newly-appointed Director of Marketing at Travel Lemming

Taylor Herperger's travel guides and biography can be found at: https://travellemming.com/author/taylor-herperger/ .

Nate Hake, CEO & Founder of Travel Lemming, commented: "Taylor is an exceptionally gifted creator who has already crafted over 60 original travel guides for Travel Lemming. Her work inspired our team's expansion to more than 30 other content creators across the United States, as we seek to build the best travel guide to the US and the world. In her new role, Taylor will help more travelers discover Travel Lemming's unique library of helpful travel guides, curated by locals and experts who really know the destination first-hand."

Taylor Herperger's prior experience includes producing content for Travel Lemming as a freelance travel writer and editor, founding the travel blog Taylor On A Trip , and holding prominent promotions positions such as National Promotions Coordinator at Warner Music Canada.

"Working with Travel Lemming for the past 3.5 years has been an absolute joy," says Taylor. "From my early days as a content writer to my more recent role on the editorial team, I have witnessed the company's tremendous growth and its unwavering commitment to delivering unparalleled travel experiences to its readers. Being appointed as the Director of Marketing is a great honor, and I'm excited for my new role with this innovative company."

With Taylor at the helm of the marketing division, Travel Lemming is gearing up to announce its annual list of Best Things to Do in the USA on May 16th, ensuring that more people discover the unique and off-the-beaten-path destinations that the publication is known for covering.

About Travel Lemming

Travel Lemming is an online travel guide with more than 10 million annual readers. Travel Lemming publishes helpful travel guides written by local and expert travelers who have first-hand experience in destinations across the United States and the world.

Media assets, including photographs available for republication, can be found here .

Press Contact: Taylor Herperger

[email protected]

(306) 745-7501

SOURCE Travel Lemming
SANTA CLARA, Calif., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Digital transformation software and technology services firm Trianz is proud to announce its sponsorship of the Big Cheese Class Reunion, a 20th Anniversary Gala celebrating two decades of connecting Boston Public Schools (BPS) students with corporate and community leaders. The Big Cheese is an Initiative by Boston Partners in Education. The event will be held on May 5, 2023, at the Boston Marriott Copley Place.

As a sponsor of the Big Cheese Gala Class Reunion, Trianz is committed to providing mentoring support for 10 BPS students, ensuring they have access to valuable opportunities to learn and grow from experienced leaders for transformative professional development and support. This sponsorship is a testament to Trianz' dedication to community involvement and support of education initiatives.

"We are proud to sponsor the Big Cheese Gala Class Reunion and provide mentoring support to Boston Public Schools students," said Sri Manchala, CEO of Trianz and author of Crossing the Digital Faultline. "As a company dedicated to education and community initiatives, we believe mentoring is critical to preparing students for successful careers and fulfilling lives. We are committed to investing in the future leaders of our community and continue to make a positive impact. We look forward to celebrating this milestone with Big Cheese alumni leaders who have joined students in Boston classrooms over the years and support the continued success of this initiative."

The Big Cheese Reads initiative was launched in 2004 to bring the nation's first CEO-driven academic mentoring campaign to Boston  a unique opportunity to inspire and motivate Boston's future leaders. Over 20 years, the initiative has introduced thousands of BPS students to hundreds of Boston's corporate, civic, and community leaders.

About Trianz

Trianz simplifies the digital evolution of companies from strategy through execution. With a unique, multi-disciplinary and collaborative model, Trianz works with clients to transition to new business models, digitalized processes and deliver great experiences utilizing analytics, digital, cloud, infrastructure, and cyber security technologies. Leveraging a portfolio of digital platforms covering digital workplaces, cloud and infrastructure, and analytics, Trianz helps clients accelerate their transformations.

Trianz portfolio of technologies and services have been rated #1 by a Fortune 1000 client base for five years in a row. Trianz has been ranked as one of the best Consulting Firms by Forbes and was recently certified as a Great Place to Work. To learn more about Trianz, email [email protected] or visit www.trianz.com.

About Crossing the Digital Faultline

Authored by Sri Manchala, Crossing the Digital Faultline is a data-driven analysis of digital transformations worldwide. It explores the causal factors, the tectonic shifts we will see across industries worldwide and the art and science of leading transformations successfully.

Click here to buy.

Trianz Media Team

[email protected]

+1-408-387-5800

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/626944/1199800/Trianz_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Trianz
United adds 40% more flights between the U.S. and Australia/New Zealand next northern winter, including new non-stop service to Christchurch, new routes from L.A. to Brisbane and Auckland, and more flights from San Francisco to Brisbane and Sydney

United serves more destinations in Australia and New Zealand than all U.S. carriers combined

Next winter, United will have more flights and serve more destinations between the U.S. and Australia and the U.S. and New Zealand than any other carrier in the world

CHICAGO, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- United Airlines today announces the largest South Pacific network expansion ever to and from the continental U.S., including the first non-stop flight between San Francisco and Christchurch set to commence on December 1. United will be the only carrier to directly connect the U.S. and the South Island of New Zealand. With 66 flights between the US and Australia/New Zealand every week, United will operate nearly 40% more flights from the U.S. to Australia and New Zealand next northern winter versus last year.

The carrier is adding new direct flights from Los Angeles to Brisbane and Auckland and increasing service to the region from its San Francisco hub with daily flights to Brisbane, twice daily flights to Sydney and flying larger aircraft to Melbourne. And thanks to United's relationships with Air New Zealand and Virgin Australia, travelers can enjoy easy one-stop connections from these cities to more than 50 destinations in the region.

United already flies to more destinations in Australia and New Zealand than all other U.S. carriers combined, and now will have more flights and serve more destinations in the region from the U.S. than any other carrier in the world. Tickets are now on sale on the airline's mobile app and on United.com  just in time for customers to plan their trips for the region's peak winter season.

"This past winter, United enhanced our network and became the largest carrier to the South Pacific region. Now, this upcoming winter, we will expand even further," said Patrick Quayle, Senior Vice President of Global Network Planning and Alliances. "Our strong partnerships with Air New Zealand and Virgin Australia provide unparalleled connectivity, and with our historic expansion across five destinations in New Zealand and Australia, United is the clear choice for customers' travel to the region."

San Francisco  Christchurch, NZ*

Starting December 1, United will be the only airline to offer direct flights between the U.S. and New Zealand's South Island, with the first direct San Francisco-Christchurch service. United will fly this route three times weekly on a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner. United's new flight to Christchurch is part of the airline's broader expansion efforts in New Zealand and next winter, the airline will be nearly 70% larger in New Zealand than in 2019.

Los Angeles  Auckland*

Next winter, United will build on its position as the largest U.S. airline to Auckland, adding four weekly flights from Los Angeles. United is the only U.S. carrier to serve Auckland year-round with its existing service from San Francisco. United will fly its Los Angeles-Auckland route on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, starting October 28.

Los Angeles  Brisbane*

In winter 2022, United became the only airline to offer direct flights between Brisbane and San Francisco. On November 29, United will add to this service by adding three weekly Los Angles-Brisbane flights on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner  becoming the largest carrier between the U.S. and Brisbane.

More Flights to Sydney and Brisbane

In addition to adding new flights to its schedule, United will also increase its flying from San Francisco to Brisbane and Sydney. Starting October 28, United will offer daily flights between San Francisco and Brisbane on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner and will be able to fly nearly triple the number of customers to Brisbane from the US next winter than it did in 2022. The airline will also fly twice daily between San Francisco and Sydney on Boeing 777-300ERs starting October 28, offering more flights to Sydney from the U.S. than any other carrier.

More Seats to Melbourne

This past winter, United became the largest airline from the U.S. to Melbourne, increasing from ten to fourteen weekly roundtrip flights, with one daily flight from both San Francisco and Los Angeles. Starting October 28, United will deploy its largest airplane on flights between San Francisco-Melbourne. The 777-300ER will add nearly 100 daily seats to each departure. Compared to winter 2019, United will offer 65% more seats to Melbourne.

*flights subject to government approval

About United

United's shared purpose is "Connecting People. Uniting the World." From our U.S. hubs in Chicago, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, New York/Newark, San Francisco and Washington, D.C., United operates the most comprehensive global route network among North American carriers. United is bringing back our customers' favorite destinations and adding new ones on its way to becoming the world's best airline. For more about how to join the United team, please visit www.united.com/careers and more information about the company is at www.united.com. United Airlines Holdings, Inc., the parent company of United Airlines, Inc., is traded on the Nasdaq under the symbol "UAL".

SOURCE United Airlines
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. A new plant for the manufacturing of glass containers is planned to be built in Azerbaijans Sumgayit Chemical Industrial Park, the Economic Zones Development Agency of Azerbaijan told Trend.

According to the agency, the enterprise worth 44.4 million manat ($26.1 million) will be built on an area of two hectares.

"The enterprise will be built on the basis of an agreement reached between the German HORN Glass Industries AG and the Azerbaijani Glassica companies. The German company will design the enterprise and equip it with all the necessary manufacturing devices," the agency said.

The annual production capacity of the enterprise will be 160 tons of glass containers, and 160 permanent jobs will be created there.

"In addition to selling the products manufactured at the enterprise on the domestic market, its also planned to export them to non-CIS countries," the agency added.

The Glassica company became a resident of the Sumgayit Chemical Industrial Park in 2020.
Youth Enrichment Platform Company Announces New Hire Eric Schechterman to Help with Franchisee Development Funding

DALLAS, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Unleashed Brands, a franchise growth-focused platform company that includes portfolio brands Urban Air Adventure Park, Snapology, The Little Gym, XP League, Class 101, and Premier Martial Arts, is expanding its leadership team by appointing Eric Schechterman to the company's newly-created role as Vice President of Franchise Finance.

Schechterman has built an extensive career in franchising, helping secure hundreds of SBA-backed loans for thousands of entrepreneurs to launch the small businesses of their dreams. Prior to joining Unleashed Brands, Schechterman was the Chief Development Officer at Benetrends Financial where he oversaw sales, marketing, and strategic relationships. Schechterman has been an impactful educator in teaching entrepreneurs about successful small business funding strategies through leadership roles within the International Franchise Association (IFA), as well as numerous speaking roles throughout franchise industry conferences worldwide.

In the new role of VP of Franchise Finance, Schechterman will leverage his expertise in franchise funding strategies to build strong relationships with lenders while working closely with Unleashed Brands' franchisees to assist them with their business financing. Acting as a prime liaison between lenders and Unleashed Brands, Schechterman will be instrumental in securing the funding relationships franchisees need to foster growth and success within their businesses.

"We made this investment in our franchise system to support our current and future franchisees by establishing key relationships in the lending industry," said Scott Perry, Chief Financial Officer of Unleashed Brands. "Our franchisees and our current base of six brands require substantial capital to fund their desire to establish and grow their Unleashed portfolio. Schechterman will be working on the finance team and with the franchise development team to help our franchisees acquire this funding to open as quickly as possible."

Unleashed Brands has 1,300 franchises operating or in development serving over 25 million children. In 2023, the brand plans to open more than 170 locations across the country and award 230 new franchise agreements.

Unleashed Brands is backed by a management team with more than 150 years of combined consumer industry experience, focused on serving families and housing the world's most innovative and profitable brands that help kids learn, play, and grow. It continues to grow its industry-leading platform to better serve and support families as moms and dads seek to "Build Great Kids" through a seamless enrichment journey.

To learn more about franchising with Unleashed Brands, please visit unleashedbrands.com.

About Unleashed Brands

Unleashed Brands, currently includes portfolio brands Urban Air, Snapology, The Little Gym, XP League, Class 101, and Premier Martial Arts and was founded to curate and grow a portfolio of the most innovative and profitable brands that help kids learn, play and grow. Over the last 10 years, the team at Unleashed Brands has built a proven platform and know-how for scaling businesses focused on serving families. Its mission is to impact the lives of every kid by providing fun, engaging, and inspiring experiences that help them become who they are destined to be. For more information, please visit www.unleashedbrands.com.

Media Contact: Camille Douglas, Fishman Public Relations, [email protected] or 248-841-0937

SOURCE Unleashed Brands
Welcomes Largest Chinese Delegation to The US At Third Annual Gathering

ST. LOUIS, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Given the mutual benefit of agricultural trade and the critical importance of U.S.-China collaboration in addressing global food security, the United States Heartland China Association (USHCA), along with co-organizers and partners from both the U.S. and China, convened the third annual U.S.-China Agriculture Roundtable on April 4 at the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center in St. Louis around the theme: Global Food Security-rise to the challenge.

For the first time since 2020, when people-to-people exchanges were abruptly halted between the U.S. and China due to the pandemic, a 24-member Chinese provincial agriculture delegation traveled to St. Louis to attend this event. Gathered at this milestone event to advocate for bilateral collaboration in agriculture to address global food security and to celebrate the return of people-to-people exchanges were over 100 American attendees that included Heartland state and local leaders as well as an array of top leaders from both governments, global ag businesses, trade associations, agriculture education institutions, and NGOs.

Chairman and President of the U.S. Heartland China Association, former Governor of Missouri, Bob Holden emphasized the importance of events like this in his opening remarks: "As we work to find a peaceful way to not just coexist, but to work together, we need personal dialogue and exchanges like this more than ever."

U.S. Ambassador to China Nicholas Burns, through recorded remarks, reminded the audience that "America's agricultural engagement with the PRC remains strong and is a major positive part of our overall relationship with China and with the Chinese people."

Charge d'affaires Madame Xu Xueyuan from the Chinese Embassy in D.C. commented on the positive sentiment in both agriculture communities: "Despite the ongoing difficulties in the bilateral relations, high enthusiasm and expectations remain across the two agricultural sectors and societies."

USDA Acting Deputy Under Secretary Jason Hafemeister affirmed the shared interests both countries have around agriculture. His announcement that recently "the United States and China agreed to relaunch our Joint Council for Cooperation in Agriculture (JCCA)," was met with applause from the audience.

Ambassador Terry Branstad, former U.S. Ambassador to China and former Governor of Iowa, participated in his new role as the President of The World Food Prize and spoke of his respect and admiration for the Chinese people as well as the unique Chinese American heritage that exists here in the Heartland as "great opportunities for improving bilateral relations."

Ambassador Kenneth Quinn, President Emeritus of the World Food Prize, who was awarded USHCA's Bridgebuilder Award for his instrumental role in the launching of the annual U.S.-China Agriculture Roundtable, moderated the diplomatic segment. In his award acceptance speech, Ambassador Quinn conveyed his vision for a USHCA-facilitated U.S.-China collaboration to uplift Africa.

Many leaders from both countries' agriculture community shared their insights and perspectives on how the two largest agriculture producers of the world can leverage our respective strengths and strong collaborations to help the most vulnerable communities in our world.

Leaders from three Chinese provinces: Hebei, Shandong, Jiangsu - all powerhouses of agriculture in China - also shared what their provinces are doing to increase productivity, reduce waste, and contribute to global food security. They extended warm welcomes for the American attendees to visit their provinces soon to explore opportunities for future collaborations around agriculture.

In addition to the in-person program on April 4, two additional dialogues took place online. The Think Tank Dialogue on April 11 focused on Rural Development and One Health. The Agriculture Education Dialogue on April 13 focused on "How to get more youth engaged in Ag?"

A more detailed press release can be accessed through this link. Recordings of select segments of this three-part dialogue will be released in the coming months at USHCA's YouTube Channel.

The United States Heartland China Association (USHCA) is a 501(C)3 nonpartisan organization dedicated to promoting exchanges in culture, education, and business between the Heartland region and China to advance the interests of our Heartland communities. More information is available at USHeartlandChina.org.

Contact: Jim Gwinner

[email protected]

314-791-2774

SOURCE US Heartland China Association
QULIPTA  now the first and only oral CGRP receptor antagonist approved to prevent migraine across frequencies, including episodic and chronic

Expanded indication provides an additional treatment option for those with chronic migraine whose frequent disabling attacks negatively impact performance of daily activities

Approval based on a clinical trial that demonstrated statistically significant reduction from baseline in mean monthly migraine days and improvements in function and reduction in activity impairment

AbbVie is the only company with three prescription treatments designed to meet patient needs across the full spectrum of migraine

NORTH CHICAGO, Ill., April 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- AbbVie (NYSE: ABBV) today announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved expanding the indication of QULIPTA (atogepant) for the preventive treatment of migraine in adults. The approval makes QULIPTA the first and only oral calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonist approved to prevent episodic and chronic migraine. People living with chronic migraine experience headaches for 15 or more days per month, with at least eight of those days associated with migraine.1

Experience the full interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/9120951-abbvie-qulipta-migraine/

"Since September 2021, QULIPTA has helped people living with episodic migraine prevent migraine attacks, reducing the daily burden of migraine. Now, those with the most challenging to treat chronic migraine can also rely on QULIPTA to significantly reduce their migraine days," said Roopal Thakkar, senior vice president, chief medical officer, AbbVie. "This approval makes AbbVie the only company with three treatments across the spectrum of migraine, including QULIPTA as a preventive treatment for both episodic and chronic migraine; BOTOX (onabotulinumtoxinA), our foundational, first FDA-approved preventive treatment for chronic migraine; and UBRELVY (ubrogepant), an acute treatment for migraine attacks."

QULIPTA's expanded chronic migraine indication is based on the pivotal Phase 3 PROGRESS trial evaluating QULIPTA 60 mg once daily in adult patients with chronic migraine, which met its primary endpoint of statistically significant reduction from baseline in mean monthly migraine days compared to placebo across the 12-week treatment period.2 The average monthly migraine days (MMDs) for patients at baseline during the clinical trial was 19.3 The trial also demonstrated that treatment with QULIPTA resulted in statistically significant improvements in all six secondary endpoints.3 This includes key secondary endpoints that measured the proportion of patients that achieved at least a 50 percent reduction in mean monthly migraine days across the 12-week treatment period and improvements in function and reduction in activity impairment due to migraine.4 These efficacy results are consistent with those in the ADVANCE episodic migraine trial.5

"The FDA approval is an important milestone, providing those most impacted by migraine with a new, safe and effective treatment option in a convenient, once-daily pill," said Peter McAllister, M.D., Director of the New England Center for Neurology and Headache. "QULIPTA's data demonstrate that it helps reduce the burden of migraine by delivering improvements in function, with high response rates and sustained efficacy over 12 weeks. These are critical factors neurologists and headache specialists consider when prescribing a treatment option, particularly for those with chronic migraine."

QULIPTA blocks CGRP through a once-daily dose and is available in three strengths for the preventive treatment of episodic migraine  10 mg, 30 mg and 60 mg. Only the 60 mg dose of QULIPTA is indicated for the preventive treatment of chronic migraine. The overall safety profile of QULIPTA is consistent with the episodic migraine patient population, with the most common adverse events including constipation, nausea and fatigue/sleepiness.6

"For years, I felt hopeless and struggled to find a treatment that not only reduced the number of migraine attacks but could also help reduce how often migraine impacted my daily activities like taking my kids to school or practices," said Latoya Lawrence, a patient who has lived with migraine for more than 20 years. "After I started taking QULIPTA for my episodic migraine, I wasn't as worried about when my next migraine attack might strike. I'm glad people living with chronic migraine now have a treatment option that has the potential to make a substantial impact on their lives."

About the Phase 3 PROGRESS Clinical Trial

The Phase 3 PROGRESS clinical trial evaluated the safety, tolerability and efficacy of oral QULIPTA 60mg once daily (QD) for the preventive treatment of chronic migraine.7 The patient population for the study included patients with a diagnosis of chronic migraine for at least one year, and greater than or equal to 15 headache days with greater than or equal to eight migraine days in the 28 days prior to randomization.7 The primary endpoint measured the reduction from baseline in mean monthly migraine days compared to placebo across a 12-week treatment period.7

Key secondary endpoints across the 12-week treatment period included: change from baseline in mean monthly headache days; change from baseline in mean monthly acute medication use days; proportion of participants with at least a 50% reduction in mean monthly migraine days; and change from baseline in Migraine Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire version 2.1 (MSQ v2.1) Role Function-Restrictive domain score at Week 12. The MSQ v2.1 is a questionnaire designed to measure health-related quality of life impairments attributed to migraine in the past four weeks. Key secondary endpoints also included change from baseline in Activity Impairment in Migraine-Diary (AIM-D) Performance of Daily Activities and Physical Impairment domain scores. The AIM-D is a novel questionnaire designed to evaluate difficulty with performance of daily activities and physical impairment due to migraine.

About QULIPTA (atogepant)

QULIPTA is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is available in the United States for the preventive treatment of migraine in adults. QULIPTA is the only oral calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonist approved to prevent migraine across frequencies, including episodic and chronic. CGRP and its receptors are expressed in regions of the nervous system associated with migraine pathophysiology, and studies have shown that CGRP levels are elevated during migraine attacks. QULIPTA blocks CGRP through a once-daily dose and is available in three strengths for the preventive treatment of episodic migraine  10 mg, 30 mg and 60 mg. Only the 60 mg dose of QULIPTA is approved for the preventive treatment of chronic migraine.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Do not take QULIPTA if you have had an allergic reaction to atogepant or any ingredients in QULIPTA.

Before taking QULIPTA (atogepant) tablets, tell your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, including if you:

Have kidney problems or are on dialysis

Have liver problems

Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if QULIPTA will harm your unborn baby

Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if QULIPTA passes into your breast milk. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby while taking QULIPTA

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. QULIPTA may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines may affect how QULIPTA works. Your healthcare provider may need to change the dose of QULIPTA when taken with certain other medicines.

QULIPTA can cause serious allergic (hypersensitivity) reactions, like anaphylaxis, that can happen when you take QULIPTA or days after. Stop taking QULIPTA and get emergency medical help right away if you get any of the following symptoms, which may be part of a serious allergic reaction: swelling of the face, lips, or tongue; itching; trouble breathing; hives; or rash.

The most common side effects of QULIPTA are nausea, constipation, and fatigue/sleepiness. These are not all the possible side effects of QULIPTA.

Please see QULIPTA full Prescribing Information.

INDICATIONS

BOTOX (onabotulinumtoxinA) is a prescription medicine that is injected into muscles and used:

To treat overactive bladder symptoms such as a strong need to urinate with leaking or wetting accidents (urge urinary incontinence), a strong need to urinate right away (urgency), and urinating often (frequency) in adults 18 years and older when another type of medicine (anticholinergic) does not work well enough or cannot be taken

To treat leakage of urine (incontinence) in adults 18 years and older with overactive bladder due to a neurologic disease when another type of medicine (anticholinergic) does not work well enough or cannot be taken

To treat overactive bladder due to a neurologic disease in children 5 years of age and older when another type of medicine (anticholinergic) does not work well enough or cannot be taken

To prevent headaches in adults with chronic migraine who have 15 or more days each month with headache lasting 4 or more hours each day in people 18 years and older

To treat increased muscle stiffness in people 2 years of age and older with spasticity

To treat the abnormal head position and neck pain that happens with cervical dystonia (CD) in people 16 years and older

To treat certain types of eye muscle problems (strabismus) or abnormal spasm of the eyelids (blepharospasm) in people 12 years of age and older

BOTOX is also injected into the skin to treat the symptoms of severe underarm sweating (severe primary axillary hyperhidrosis) when medicines used on the skin (topical) do not work well enough in people 18 years and older.

It is not known whether BOTOX is safe and effective to prevent headaches in patients with migraine who have 14 or fewer headache days each month (episodic migraine).

BOTOX has not been shown to help people perform task-specific functions with their upper limbs or increase movement in joints that are permanently fixed in position by stiff muscles.

It is not known whether BOTOX is safe and effective for severe sweating anywhere other than your armpits.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

BOTOX may cause serious side effects that can be life threatening. Get medical help right away if you have any of these problems any time (hours to weeks) after injection of BOTOX:

Problems swallowing, speaking, or breathing, due to weakening of associated muscles, can be severe and result in loss of life. You are at the highest risk if these problems are preexisting before injection. Swallowing problems may last for several months.

due to weakening of associated muscles, can be severe and result in loss of life. You are at the highest risk if these problems are preexisting before injection. Swallowing problems may last for several months. Spread of toxin effects. The effect of botulinum toxin may affect areas away from the injection site and cause serious symptoms, including loss of strength and all-over muscle weakness; double vision; blurred vision; drooping eyelids; hoarseness or change or loss of voice; trouble saying words clearly; loss of bladder control; trouble breathing; and trouble swallowing.

There has not been a confirmed serious case of spread of toxin effect away from the injection site when BOTOX has been used at the recommended dose to treat chronic migraine, severe underarm sweating, blepharospasm, or strabismus.

BOTOX may cause loss of strength or general muscle weakness, vision problems, or dizziness within hours to weeks of receiving BOTOX. If this happens, do not drive a car, operate machinery, or do other dangerous activities.

Do not receive BOTOX if you are allergic to any of the ingredients in BOTOX (see Medication Guide for ingredients); had an allergic reaction to any other botulinum toxin product such as Myobloc (rimabotulinumtoxinB), Dysport (abobotulinumtoxinA), or Xeomin (incobotulinumtoxinA); have a skin infection at the planned injection site.

Do not receive BOTOX for the treatment of urinary incontinence if you have a urinary tract infection (UTI) or cannot empty your bladder on your own and are not routinely catheterizing. Due to the risk of urinary retention (difficulty fully emptying the bladder), only patients who are willing and able to initiate catheterization posttreatment, if required, should be considered for treatment.

Patients treated for overactive bladder: In clinical trials, 36 of the 552 patients had to self-catheterize for urinary retention following treatment with BOTOX compared to 2 of the 542 treated with placebo. The median duration of postinjection catheterization for these patients treated with BOTOX 100 Units (n = 36) was 63 days (minimum 1 day to maximum 214 days), as compared to a median duration of 11 days (minimum 3 days to maximum 18 days) for patients receiving placebo (n = 2). Patients with diabetes mellitus treated with BOTOX were more likely to develop urinary retention than nondiabetics.

Adult patients treated for overactive bladder due to a neurologic disease: In clinical trials, 30.6% of adult patients (33/108) who were not using clean intermittent catheterization (CIC) prior to injection required catheterization for urinary retention following treatment with BOTOX 200 Units, as compared to 6.7% of patients (7/104) treated with placebo. The median duration of postinjection catheterization for these patients treated with BOTOX 200 Units (n = 33) was 289 days (minimum 1 day to maximum 530 days), as compared to a median duration of 358 days (minimum 2 days to maximum 379 days) for patients receiving placebo (n = 7).

Among adult patients not using CIC at baseline, those with multiple sclerosis were more likely to require CIC postinjection than those with spinal cord injury.

The dose of BOTOX is not the same as, or comparable to, another botulinum toxin product.

Serious and/or immediate allergic reactions have been reported, including itching; rash; red, itchy welts; wheezing; asthma symptoms; dizziness; or feeling faint. Get medical help right away if you experience symptoms; further injection of BOTOX should be discontinued.

Tell your doctor about all your muscle or nerve conditions, such as ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease, myasthenia gravis, or Lambert-Eaton syndrome, as you may be at increased risk of serious side effects, including difficulty swallowing and difficulty breathing from typical doses of BOTOX.

Tell your doctor if you have any breathing-related problems. Your doctor may monitor you for breathing problems during treatment with BOTOX for spasticity or for detrusor overactivity associated with a neurologic condition. The risk of developing lung disease in patients with reduced lung function is increased in patients receiving BOTOX.

Cornea problems have been reported. Cornea (surface of the eye) problems have been reported in some people receiving BOTOX for their blepharospasm, especially in people with certain nerve disorders. BOTOX may cause the eyelids to blink less, which could lead to the surface of the eye being exposed to air more than is usual. Tell your doctor if you experience any problems with your eyes while receiving BOTOX. Your doctor may treat your eyes with drops, ointments, contact lenses, or with an eye patch.

Bleeding behind the eye has been reported. Bleeding behind the eyeball has been reported in some people receiving BOTOX for their strabismus. Tell your doctor if you notice any new visual problems while receiving BOTOX.

Bronchitis and upper respiratory tract infections (common colds) have been reported. Bronchitis was reported more frequently in adults receiving BOTOX for upper limb spasticity. Upper respiratory infections were also reported more frequently in adults with prior breathing-related problems with spasticity. In pediatric patients treated with BOTOX for upper limb spasticity, upper respiratory tract infections were reported more frequently. In pediatric patients treated with BOTOX for lower limb spasticity, upper respiratory tract infections were not reported more frequently than placebo.

Autonomic dysreflexia in patients treated for overactive bladder due to a neurologic disease. Autonomic dysreflexia associated with intradetrusor injections of BOTOX could occur in patients treated for detrusor overactivity associated with a neurologic condition and may require prompt medical therapy. In clinical trials, the incidence of autonomic dysreflexia was greater in adult patients treated with BOTOX 200 Units compared with placebo (1.5% versus 0.4%, respectively).

Tell your doctor about all your medical conditions, including if you have or have had bleeding problems; have plans to have surgery; had surgery on your face; have weakness of forehead muscles, trouble raising your eyebrows, drooping eyelids, and any other abnormal facial change; have symptoms of a UTI and are being treated for urinary incontinence (symptoms of a UTI may include pain or burning with urination, frequent urination, or fever); have problems emptying your bladder on your own and are being treated for urinary incontinence; are pregnant or plan to become pregnant (it is not known if BOTOX can harm your unborn baby); are breastfeeding or plan to (it is not known if BOTOX passes into breast milk).

Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Using BOTOX with certain other medicines may cause serious side effects. Do not start any new medicines until you have told your doctor that you have received BOTOX in the past.

Tell your doctor if you received any other botulinum toxin product in the last 4 months; have received injections of botulinum toxin such as Myobloc, Dysport, or Xeomin in the past (tell your doctor exactly which product you received); have recently received an antibiotic by injection; take muscle relaxants; take an allergy or cold medicine; take a sleep medicine; take aspirin-like products or blood thinners.

Other side effects of BOTOX include dry mouth; discomfort or pain at the injection site; tiredness; headache; neck pain; eye problems such as double vision, blurred vision, decreased eyesight, drooping eyelids, swelling of your eyelids, and dry eyes; drooping eyebrows; and upper respiratory tract infection. In adults being treated for urinary incontinence, other side effects include UTI and painful urination. In children being treated for urinary incontinence, other side effects include UTI and bacteria in the urine. In patients being treated for urinary incontinence, another side effect includes the inability to empty your bladder on your own. If you have difficulty fully emptying your bladder on your own after receiving BOTOX, you may need to use disposable self-catheters to empty your bladder up to a few times each day until your bladder is able to start emptying again.

For more information, refer to the Medication Guide or talk with your doctor.

Please see BOTOX full Product Information, including Boxed Warning and Medication Guide.

About UBRELVY (ubrogepant)

UBRELVY is an orally administered calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonist (gepant) for the acute treatment of migraine with or without aura in adults that is an option for a wide range of patients who experience migraine attacks. UBRELVY is the first pill of its kind to directly block CGRP, a protein released during a migraine attack, from binding to its receptors.

What is UBRELVY (ubrogepant)?

UBRELVY is a prescription medicine used for the acute treatment of migraine attacks with or without aura in adults. UBRELVY is not used to prevent migraine headaches.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Do not take UBRELVY if you are taking medicines known as strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, such as ketoconazole, clarithromycin, or itraconazole, or if you are allergic to UBRELVY or any of its ingredients.

Before taking UBRELVY, tell your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, including if you:

Have liver problems

Have kidney problems

Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant

Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Your healthcare provider can tell you if it is safe to take UBRELVY with other medicines.

UBRELVY may cause serious side effects, including allergic reactions. Most reactions happened within hours after taking UBRELVY and were not serious. Some reactions may occur days after taking UBRELVY. Call your healthcare provider or get emergency help right away if you have swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, or throat or trouble breathing.

The most common side effects of UBRELVY are nausea (4%) and sleepiness (3%). These are not all of the possible side effects of UBRELVY.

Please see UBRELVY full Prescribing Information.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA.

Visit 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.

About Migraine and Chronic Migraine

Migraine is a complex neurological disease with recurrent attacks that are often incapacitating and characterized by severe, throbbing headache pain as well as compounding associated symptoms like extreme sensitivity to light, sound or nausea.8 It is highly prevalent, affecting more than 1 billion people worldwide, including nearly 40 million people in the United States alone, and is the highest cause of disability worldwide for people under 50 years of age.9-12

People living with chronic migraine experience headaches or migraine for 15 or more days per month, with at least eight of those days associated with migraine.13 It is differentiated from episodic migraine, which is characterized by 0-14 headache days per month,14 by its more debilitating disease profile including greater prevalence of comorbid conditions as well as higher frequency of headache and migraine days.14-16 Individuals with chronic migraine experience frequent disabling migraine attacks, preventing them from performing daily activities and significantly affecting their quality of life. This results in substantial societal and familial burden.17-21 Significant direct and indirect costs are also associated with chronic migraine, leading to economic burden for patients and healthcare systems.22-24

About AbbVie in Migraine

AbbVie is the only company with three prescription treatments designed to meet patient needs across the full spectrum of migraine to help patients living with this debilitating disease.

QULIPTA  (atogepant) is FDA-approved for the preventive treatment of migraine in adults. It is the only oral calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonist approved to prevent migraine across frequencies, including episodic and chronic. Since its initial approval for the preventive treatment of episodic migraine in September 2021 , QULIPTA has been prescribed for nearly 200,000 patients.

(atogepant) is FDA-approved for the preventive treatment of migraine in adults. It is the only oral calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonist approved to prevent migraine across frequencies, including episodic and chronic. Since its initial approval for the preventive treatment of episodic migraine in , QULIPTA has been prescribed for nearly 200,000 patients. BOTOX  (onabotulinumtoxinA) is the first FDA-approved, preventive treatment for adult patients with chronic migraine. Since FDA approval in 2010, more than 5 million BOTOX  treatments given to more than 850,000 people living with chronic migraine.

(onabotulinumtoxinA) is the first FDA-approved, preventive treatment for adult patients with chronic migraine. Since FDA approval in 2010, more than 5 million BOTOX treatments given to more than 850,000 people living with chronic migraine. UBRELVY (ubrogepant) is the first FDA-approved CGRP treatment for the acute treatment of migraine attacks in adults. Since its approval in December 2019 , UBRELVY has been prescribed for nearly 750,000 patients. It can be used in patients across the entire spectrum of migraine and regardless of other treatments (acute or preventive) they may be on or have tried.

At AbbVie, we are committed to empowering people living with migraine disease. We advance science that enables healthcare providers to care for people impacted across the spectrum of migraine. Through education and partnerships with the migraine community, we strive to help those with migraine navigate barriers to care, access effective treatments and reduce the impact of migraine on their lives.

About AbbVie in Neuroscience

At AbbVie, our commitment to preserve the personhood of those living with neurological and psychiatric disorders is unwavering. Every challenge in this uncharted territory makes us more determined and drives us harder to discover and deliver solutions for patients, care partners and clinicians. AbbVie's Neuroscience portfolio consists of approved therapies in neurological and psychiatric disorders, including bipolar I disorder, cervical dystonia, major depressive disorder, migraine, Parkinson's disease, post-stroke spasticity, schizophrenia and others along with a robust pipeline.

We have a strong investment in neuroscience research, with our Foundational Neuroscience Center in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and our Neuroscience Discovery site in Ludwigshafen, Germany, where our research and resilience in these challenging therapeutic areas is yielding a deeper understanding of the pathophysiology of neurological and psychiatric disorders, and identifying targets for potential disease-modifying therapeutics aimed at making a difference in people's lives.

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 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, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.

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 and uses of future or conditional verbs, 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 expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, challenges to intellectual property, competition from other products, difficulties inherent in the research and development process, adverse litigation or government action, and changes to laws and regulations applicable to our industry. 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 2022 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, and specifically declines, to release publicly any revisions to forward-looking statements as a result of subsequent events or developments, except as required by law.

Headache Classification Committee of the International Headache Society (IHS) The International Classification of Headache Disorders, 3rd edition. Cephalalgia. 2018;38:1-211. AbbVie. Data on File: ABVRRTI73750 Efficacy, Safety, and Tolerability, of Atogepant for the Prevention of Chronic Migraine. ClinicalTrials.gov. Available at: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03855137?term=NCT03855137&draw=2&rank=1. Accessed on March 15, 2023 . AbbVie. Data on File: ABVRRTI73750 12-Week Placebo-controlled Study of Atogepant for the Preventive Treatment of Migraine in Participants With Episodic Migraine ClinicalTrials.gov. Available at: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03777059. QULIPTA (atogepant) [Package Insert]. North Chicago, Ill. : AbbVie Inc. Efficacy, Safety, and Tolerability, of Atogepant for the Prevention of Chronic Migraine. ClinicalTrials.gov. Available at: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03855137. Headache Classification Committee of the International Headache Society (IHS) The International Classification of Headache Disorders, 3rd edition. Cephalalgia. 2018;38:1-211. Amiri P, Kazeminasab S, Nejadghaderi SA, Mohammadinasab R, Pourfathi H, Araj-Khodaei M, Sullman MJM, Kolahi AA, Safiri S. Migraine: A Review on Its History, Global Epidemiology, Risk Factors, and Comorbidities. Front Neurol. 2022 Feb 23;12:800605. doi: 10.3389/fneur.2021.800605. PMID: 35281991; PMCID: PMC8904749. Steiner, T. J., Stovner, L. J., Vos, T., Jensen, R., & Katsarava, Z. Migraine is first cause of disability in under 50s: Will health politicians now take notice? J Headache Pain. 2018;19:17. AbbVie. Data on File: ABVRRTI73750 Katsarava Z, Buse DC, Manack AN, Lipton RB. Defining the differences between episodic migraine and chronic migraine. Curr Pain Headache Rep. 2012;16:86-92. Headache Classification Committee of the International Headache Society (IHS) The International Classification of Headache Disorders, 3rd edition. Cephalalgia. 2018;38:1-211. Katsarava Z, Buse DC, Manack AN, Lipton RB. Defining the differences between episodic migraine and chronic migraine. Curr Pain Headache Rep. 2012;16:86-92. Buse DC, Manack A, Serrano DC, et al. Sociodemographic and comorbidity profiles of chronic migraine and episodic migraine sufferers. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry. 2010;81:428-432. Adams AM, Serrano D, Buse DC, et al. The impact of chronic migraine: The Chronic Migraine Epidemiology and Outcomes (CaMEO) Study methods and baseline results. Cephalalgia. 2015;35(7) 563-578. Blumenfeld A, Varon S, Wilcox TK, et al. Disability, HRQoL and resource use among chronic and episodic migraineurs: results from the International Burden of Migraine Study (IBMS). Cephalalgia. 2011;31:301-315. Lanteri-Minet M, Duru G, Mudge M, Cottrell S. Quality of life impairment, disability and economic burden associated with chronic daily headache, focusing on chronic migraine with or without medication overuse: a systematic review. Cephalalgia. 2011;31:837-850. Buse DC, Scher AI, Dodick DW, et al. Impact of migraine on the family: perspectives of people with migraine and their spouse/domestic partner in the CaMEO Study. Mayo Clin Proc . 2016;91:596-611. Buse DC, Powers SW, Gelfand AA, et al. Adolescent perspectives on the burden of a parent's migraine: results from the CaMEO study. Headache. 2018;58:512-524. Buse DC, Murray S, Dumas PK, et al. Life with migraine, effect on relationships, career and finances, and overall health and well-being results of the Chronic Migraine Epidemiology and Outcomes (CaMEO) Study. Cephalalgia. 2018;38(Suppl 1):9-10. Messali A, Sanderson JC, Blumenfeld AM, et al. Direct and indirect costs of chronic and episodic migraine in the United States : a web-based survey. Headache. 2016;56:306-322. Sanderson JC, Devine EB, Lipton RB, et al. Headache-related health resource utilization in chronic and episodic migraine across six countries. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry. 2013;84:1309-1317. Blumenfeld AM, Varon SF, Wilcox TK, et al. Disability, HRQoL and resource use among chronic and episodic migraineurs: Results from the International Burden of Migraine Study (IBMS). Cephalalgia. 2011;31:301-315.

Pharmaceutical

SOURCE AbbVie
WEST CHESTER, Pa., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Venerable today announced the appointment of Catherine Mahone to Chief Administrative Officer (CAO). In this role, Mahone will have oversight for the Human Resources, Information Technology, Operations, and Strategy and Implementation functions.

Mahone arrives at Venerable with over 30 years of financial services experience, most recently with Allianz as Chief Administrative Officer. In this role, she was accountable for the life insurance and annuity business unit's operations and budget, including oversight of the Information Technology, Project Management Office, Cybersecurity, Procurement, and Strategy Execution functions. During this time, Mahone led wide-ranging initiatives that resulted in significant revenue growth, improved customer and employee satisfaction rates, reduced expenses, and improved risk and compliance controls.

Prior to her time at Allianz, Mahone spent two decades at Ameriprise Financial in project management, strategy, and planning roles where she led large-scale teams focused on major technology initiatives, offshoring, product launches, and compliance-related endeavors.

She holds a Master's in Business Communication from the University of St. Thomas and a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications from the University of Minnesota, as well as FINRA Series 7 and 24 licenses. She is a mentor with Menttium, a tailored leadership and development solution that offers cross-company mentoring and consulting services and is also a board member of Lifeworks and the American Heart Association.

Cathy's appointment as CAO brings to conclusion the organizational changes at Venerable resulting from the retirement of President and CEO, Patrick Lusk. David Marcinek, Senior Managing Director and Chairman assumed the CEO role as of January 1, 2023.

"I am grateful to lead an organization as dynamic as Venerable, with high performing leaders, a driven employee base, and significant growth opportunities", said Marcinek. "Cathy joins a leadership team that embodies our values of connectedness, courage, and curiosity. I look forward to working with them, in support of our employees as they propel our organization toward achievement of our strategic goals. The Venerable story resonates strongly across the insurance industry, and we are proud to have Cathy become a part of it."

About Venerable

Venerable is a privately held company with business operations based in West Chester, Pennsylvania, Des Moines, Iowa, and New York, NY. Venerable owns and manages legacy variable annuity business acquired from other entities. Created by an investor group led by affiliates of Apollo Global Management, LLC, Crestview Partners, Reverence Capital Partners, and Athene Holdings, Ltd., Venerable is a business with well-established, strategic investors, experienced in successfully building and growing insurance businesses with patient, long-term capital. For more information, please visit www.venerable.com.

Contact:

Allison Proud

Corporate Communications

610-249-9730

SOURCE Venerable
BENTON HARBOR, Mich., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the board of directors of Whirlpool Corporation (the "Company") declared a quarterly dividend of $1.75 per share on the company's common stock. The dividend is payable on June 15, 2023, to stockholders of record at the close of business on May 19, 2023.

About Whirlpool Corporation

Whirlpool Corporation (NYSE: WHR) is committed to being the best global kitchen and laundry company, in constant pursuit of improving life at home. In an increasingly digital world, the company is driving purposeful innovation to meet the evolving needs of consumers through its iconic brand portfolio, including Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Maytag, Consul, Brastemp, Amana, Bauknecht, JennAir, Indesit, Yummly and InSinkErator. In 2022, the company reported approximately $20 billion in annual sales, 61,000 employees and 56 manufacturing and technology research centers. Additional information about the company can be found at WhirlpoolCorp.com.

Website Disclosure

We routinely post important information for investors on our website, whirlpoolcorp.com, in the "Investors" section. We also intend to update the Hot Topics Q&A portion of this webpage as a means of disclosing material, non-public information and for complying with our disclosure obligations under Regulation FD. Accordingly, investors should monitor the Investors section of our website, in addition to following our press releases, SEC filings, public conference calls, presentations and webcasts. The information contained on, or that may be accessed through, our webpage is not incorporated by reference into, and is not a part of, this document.

SOURCE Whirlpool Corporation
DUBAI, UAE and BERLIN, Germany, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- According to Wingie's Data, flight ticket searches increased by 300% since the start of Ramadan

Eid-al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and millions of Muslims celebrate this religious holiday with joyous festivities and enriched feasts. On this important holiday, many opted to travel and flight searches skyrocketed before Eid-al-Fitr. Leading travel marketplace Wingie.com releases an evaluation of travel activities that fluctuated during Ramadan.

75% of Travelers booked international flights while 82% of bookings made by solo travelers

People made their travel plans early; 70% of bookings include traveling before Eid, and 30% of bookings were made to travel after the start of the holiday. Most travelers were young adults, as the median age of passengers was 34,6 and the impact of the solo travel trend can be seen from bookings since 82% of passengers were solo, 10% of carts were for two people, and 8% of them were for three or more people, meanwhile, 7,5% of Wingie users were traveling with kids or babies. The gender distribution of passengers was 62% men and 38% women.

Most bookings, precisely 78% of flight tickets, were one-way, and 22% of them were round-trip. Likewise, 75% of Wingie users opted for international flights and only 25% of them booked domestic flights. The majority of flights were booked from Cairo in Egypt, Istanbul in Turkey, Riyadh in Saudi Arabia, and Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. The most popular destinations were also Turkey, India, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Qatar, and Jordan. Finally, the most popular route was from Jeddah to Cairo, in both directions.

About Wingie Enuygun Group

Wingie Enuygun Group is a popular travel marketplace in the MENA region focusing mainly on flights operating under wingie.com, sa.wingie.com, wingie.ae and enuygun.com domains. The company offers a range of products including flights, bus tickets, hotels, and rental cars. Wingie Enuygun Group has been one of the most innovative players in the MENA online travel space, with the aim of pioneering technological developments and leading the transformation of the travel industry with the approach of thinking digitally. Wingie.com is a leading flight booking platform with its inclusion in the development of virtual interlining for flights, offering a diverse range of airline tickets and other travel content to enhance the user experience by providing the best options.

Wingie.com is available in 6 languages, employs over 300 people, and has around 165 million visitors to its platforms annually.

Contact:

Wingie

[email protected]

+1 4378883181

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2035421/Wingie_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Wingie
1000+ C-Level Executives at Chief in Tech Summit

NEW YORK and SAN FRANCISCO, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The WomenTech Network proudly presents the Women in Tech Global Conference 2023, scheduled for May 9-12th. This ground-breaking event will assemble industry leaders from companies such as Amazon, Google, Meta, Microsoft, and more, aiming to transform tech leadership.

The conference's highlight is the Chief in Tech Summit on May 9th, hosting over 1000 C-Level executives, providing exclusive insights into the latest trends, strategies, and innovations shaping the tech industry.

Women in Tech Global Conference 2023 Cover

Some of the notable speakers include:

Anu Bharadwaj, President, Atlassian

Deb Cupp, President North America, Microsoft

Fiona Tan, CTO, Wayfair

Jae Sook Evans, Global CIO, Oracle

Julie Durham, CTO, UnitedHealth Group

Kate Prouty, SVP/CIO, Akamai Technologies

Penelope Prett, CIO/CDAO, Accenture

The conference will focus on key topics such as diversity and inclusion, leadership and digital transformation, innovation, entrepreneurship, and career growth strategies, as well as cutting-edge technologies including AI and Automation, Edge Computing, 5G and Advanced Wireless Technologies, IoT, VR & AR, and Sustainability Tech.

Anna Radulovski, WomenTech Network Founder and CEO, stated, "The Women in Tech Global Conference offers a unique platform to learn from industry leaders. With a record number of C-level speakers and tech leaders, we focus on inclusivity, equity, and sustainability. We aim to inspire and empower attendees to impact their careers and the world."

In addition to the Chief in Tech Summit, the event will host virtual summits like the Key Tech Summit, Career Growth Summit, and Women in Tech Global ESG Impact Summit. In-person events will be held in various cities worldwide, including the Chief in Tech Executive Dinner in New York and Women in Tech networking events in London, Toronto as well as Barcelona, Lisbon, and Madrid.

The conference will provide participants access to industry heavyweights through inspiring live keynotes, engaging panels, technical workshops, a career expo, and face-to-face networking sessions. Attendees can expect to gain actionable advice, practical experience, expand their network, and grow their tech careers.

The Women in Tech Global Conference is supported by a wide range of sponsors and partners, including government organizations like the FBI, NIST and NRO; companies such as GE Healthcare, EPAM, Celonis, Tata Communications, Toptal, PepsiCo, Mercedes-Benz AG, and Celonis; and non-profit organizations like UN Volunteers, Space Foundation, and Code for America. In total, over 200 organizations are backing this monumental event.

Don't miss this unique opportunity to connect with the most influential women in technology, learn from their experiences, and advance your own career in the process.

For more information and tickets see:

https://www.womentech.net/women-tech-conference

For media accreditation, please see:

https://www.womentech.net/women-tech-conference/media-accreditation

About WomenTech Network:

WomenTech Network, the global community for women in tech, represents 172 countries with over 8,000 Global Ambassadors and 70,000 members. Reaching 3.5 million people, the network empowers women through leadership development, professional growth, networking, and mentorship programs.

Contact:

Anna Radulovski

CEO & Founder

WomenTech Network

[email protected]

+1 650-603-0080

SOURCE WomenTech Network
XI'AN, China, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2023 Qinchuangyuan Talent Activity Week (the Talent Week), co-hosted by the Party Working Committee of Xixian New Area and Xi'an Jiaotong University, achieved great success. The Talent Week, guided by the Talent Office of the Shaanxi Provincial Party Committee as well as the Talent Office of the Xi'an Municipal Party Committee, is to amplify the overall capability of talent attraction in Xixian.

It is the first large-scale series of activities based on the construction of the Qinchuangyuan platform, with the theme of cherishing talents, nurturing talents with care, attracting talents with dedication, and meticulously using talents. The aim is to strengthen Xixian's talent attraction and gathering platform capabilities through the construction of the Qinchuangyuan platform.

The overall concept of the Qinchuangyuan Talent Activity Week includes sections such as the Talent Summit Forum, Global Talent Seeking, Talent Lecture Hall, Entering Qinchuangyuan, and Science and Technology Innovation Achievement Exhibition, with over 30 different activities organized.

The involvement of well-known universities such as Xi'an Jiaotong University and Northwest Polytechnical University, leading enterprises such as LONGi Green Energy and Tonly Heavy Industries, as well as Xixian Education and Health System, allows the global talent list of Qinchuangyuan to find favorable arrangements.

There are over 400 employers with 25,000 positions available, and employers are able to share job requirements through offline promotion as well as online live streaming. Cloud services such as job search and resume submission are also provided on the Qinchuangyuan Platform Talent Service Cloud.

Xixian New Area and Xi'an Jiaotong University have also signed a pilot strategic cooperation agreement built on the foundation of Three Pools and One Mechanism. Both sides will cooperate in growing the School Recruitment Sharing talent pool, fund pool, project pool, and a corresponding docking mechanism for the Qinchuangyuan platform, accelerating the gathering of high-level talents, promoting the on-site transfer and incubation of scientific and technological achievements, and further strengthening the four main functions of Qinchuangyuan General Window.

In the future, Xixian New Area will build a Talent Block for Qinchuangyuan in three dimensions: Talent, Industry, and Talent Seeking. It will continue to publish Talent-seeking Rankings on the Qinchuangyuan Platform Talent Service Cloud website.

Media Contact

Name:Cheng

E-mail:[email protected]

SOURCE Talent Office of the Party Working Committee of Xixian New Area
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. Tropical fruit imported to Azerbaijan will be exempt from a 15-percent customs duty from January 1, 2024, Trend reports.

This was reflected in the amendments by the Decision of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Azerbaijan No. 500 dated November 17, 2017, about the "Commodity nomenclature of foreign economic activity of the Republic of Azerbaijan, rates of import customs duties and rates of export customs duties" which was signed by Azerbaijani Prime Minister Ali Asadov.

The decision will be valid until December 31, 2030.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. It is necessary to increase the trade volume between Israel and Azerbaijan, Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen said on Twitter, Trend reports.

He noted that Azerbaijan's strategic position increases the importance of its ties with Israel and turns them [ties] into great potential.

"Today I am leaving for an important trip to deepen cooperation with our friends in Baku in the fields of security, economy, innovation, and energy, and in particular to create a strong and united front against common difficulties," Cohen said.

Previously, Israeli Ambassador to Azerbaijan George Deek noted that the trade turnover between Azerbaijan and Israel is doing to double this year. He also said that the opening of the Azerbaijani Embassy in Israel will play a certain role in expanding the cooperation between the two countries.

On March 29, 2023, the opening ceremony of the Azerbaijani Embassy in Israel was held with the participation of Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov and Israeli Foreign Minister Cohen.
Baghdad, April 18 : Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani emphasised his country's openness to expanding cooperation with Ukraine, calling for settling international disputes by rejecting wars and adopting dialogue.

Al-Sudani made the remarks during a meeting with visiting Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba in the Iraqi capital of Baghdad, Xinhua news agency reported, citing a statement released on Monday by the media office of the Iraqi Prime Minister.

The two sides discussed ways to enhance trade and economic exchange between Iraq and Ukraine, said the statement, adding that al-Sudani reiterated Iraq's stance in resolving international and regional problems and disputes by rejecting wars and adopting dialogue.

For his part, Kuleba stressed his country's willingness to cooperate with Iraq and expressed the Ukrainian government's appreciation of Iraq's "pivotal role in supporting international stability efforts and peace initiatives." Earlier on Monday, Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein called for a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine during a press conference with Kuleba, noting that "Iraq seeks to be part of the solution" regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the state-run Iraqi News Agency reported.

-- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed
Dublin, April 18 : EU's ambassador in Sudan Aidan O'Hara has reportedly been assaulted at his home in Khartoum, which is gripped by deadly fighting between rival forces, Irish Foreign Minister Micheal Martin has said.

The Irish diplomat was not "seriously hurt", Martin has confirmed, the BBC reported.

Martin described the attack as a "gross violation of obligations to protect diplomats".

Around 185 people have been killed and more than 1,800 injured in three days of fighting, according to the UN.

Sudan has been witnessing armed clashes between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) since April 15.

Violent clashes in Sudan's capital of Khartoum renewed on Monday around the Sudanese army command, Khartoum International Airport, and the presidential palace, after a ceasefire for three hours on Sunday.

The Sudanese Army on Monday said that they had limited clashes with the RSF around the perimeter of the army's General Command and the center of Khartoum, Xinhua news agency reported.

"The armed forces are in complete control of all their headquarters, and what is being circulated about the enemy's seizure of the general command, the guesthouse, or the Republican palace is untrue," the army said in a statement.

The army said that the Sudanese Air Force on Monday launched strikes against a number of hostile targets with the aim of ending pockets of the RSF in the capital.

The army further accused what it called "media mouthpieces" loyal to the RSF of spreading many lies to mislead public opinion.

Meanwhile, Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, commander of the RSF, on Monday urged the international community to intervene to stop what he termed as "crimes of Sudanese army commander." "The international community must take action now and intervene against the crimes of Sudanese General Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, a radical Islamist who is bombing civilians from the air," Dagalo said on his Twitter account on Monday.

"The army is waging a brutal campaign against the innocent, bombing them with missiles," he added.

He also denied that his forces initiated the fighting with the Sudanese army. "We did not attack anyone. Our actions are merely a response to the siege and assault against our force," he said.

Volker Perthes, special representative of the Secretary-General for Sudan and head of the United Nations Integrated Transition Assistance Mission in Sudan (UNITAMS), Monday said he was "extremely disappointed" that the Humanitarian cessation of hostilities that both the Sudanese Armed Forces and the RSF had committed to, was only partially honored on Sunday.

"Perthes continues to urge all parties to respect their international obligations, including to ensure the protection of all civilians," UNITAMS said in a statement.

He vowed to remain engaged with the Sudanese, regional and international partners to work for a cessation of hostilities.

The two sides traded accusations of initiating the conflict in the capital Khartoum and other places in Sudan.

The tension between the two military forces has escalated since Wednesday in the Merowe region in northern Sudan, after the RSF moved military vehicles to a location near the military air base there, a move that the army considered illegal.

Deep differences have emerged between the Sudanese army and the RSF, particularly regarding the latter's integration into the army as stipulated in a framework agreement signed between military and civilian leaders on December 5, 2022.
Jerusalem, April 18 : Israel has said it was "following with concern" the fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces in Sudan.

"Israel wants stability and security for Sudan," the Israeli Foreign Ministry Spokesman Lior Haiat wrote on Twitter, Xinhua news agency reported.

"Israel calls on all parties to refrain from violence and to return to the path of internal reconciliation, in order to conclude the process of governmental transition with a large consensus," the spokesman wrote.

The armed clashes that erupted in Khartoum on Saturday left at least 97 people dead and hundreds of others injured.

The conflict is expected to postpone the signing of a deal to normalize ties between Israel and Sudan, which is expected to take place after the transfer of power in Sudan to a civilian government, according to commentators on state-owned Kan TV news.

Sudan first agreed to normalise ties with Israel in 2020. After paying a visit to Sudanese capital of Khartoum in February, Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen said the final normalization deal is expected to be signed by the end of 2023.
Chicago, April 18 : An 85-year-old white man who shot a Black teenager at his front door last week in Kansas City of US' Missouri state, has been charged with armed assault, Prosecuting Attorney Zachary Thompson of Clay County said.

Speaking at a news conference on Monday, Thompson said Andrew Lester shot 16-year-old Ralph Yarl Thursday night in a neighbourhood in north Kansas City, Xinhua news agency reported.

Yarl was sent to pick up his twin younger brothers. He approached the wrong house and rang the doorbell. Lester came to the door and shot Yarl in the head, and then shot him again, local media reported.

Yarl approached three different homes before getting help. He was released from the hospital Sunday and is recovering at home.

Lester was taken into custody Thursday but released the next day after consultation with the prosecutor's office, Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves said at a news conference on Sunday. The firearm used was found at the home.

Thompson said race was not a factor in the shooting.

Protests were staged Sunday in Kansas City, in hope of bringing attention to the shooting.
San Francisco, April 18 : Joining the 'Big Four' consulting firms, global professional services provider Ernst & Young (EY) will slash around 3,000 jobs or 5 per cent of its workforce in the US, the media reported.

The job cuts have been announced less than a week after the collapse of a plan to spin off EY's global consulting business into a new company, reports Financial Times.

"After assessing the impact of current economic conditions, strong employee retention rates and overcapacity in parts of our firm, we have made the difficult business decision to separate approximately 3,000 US employees," an EY spokesperson was quoted as saying.

These actions are part of the ongoing management of our business and not a result of the recently concluded strategic review, "known as Project Everest", the company spokesperson added.

Among other consulting groups, KPMG laid off close to 2 per cent of its US staff in February.

Accenture would cut 2.6 per cent of its global workforce over the next 18 months, while McKinsey will reduce about 3 per cent of its workforce (about 2,000 jobs).

In January, global investment firm Goldman Sachs fired more than 3,000 employees.

The 'Big Four' accounting and consulting firms all went on a hiring spree during the recovery from the pandemic.

However, the consulting businesses have slowed sharply over the past year after a period of outsized growth, said the report.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. The Azerbaijan-Pakistan-Turkiye business forum will be held, Trend reports via the TurkicWorld.

The agreement on holding such a forum was reached during the meeting of Chairman of the MUSIAD Azerbaijan, Rashad Jabirli, and the members of the Board with Ambassador of Pakistan to Azerbaijan, Bilal Hayee. The meeting was held as part of the activities of MUSIAD Azerbaijan on corporate relations and communications.

Independent Industrialists and Businessmen Association (MUSIAD) is a non-governmental organization founded by a group of Turkish businessmen. Along with its main office in Turkiye, MUSIAD also has an Azerbaijan branch (MUSIAD Azerbaijan), which started its operations in 2018.

The negotiations on the time and place of the business forum are still underway. Along with the mentioned forum, during the meeting, information was given on the ongoing events and planned projects, and issues of cooperation were discussed.

Furthermore, an agreement was reached to arrange a visit of Azerbaijani businessmen to Pakistan in 2023.

In addition, discussions were held on the organization of meetings of businessmen who are planning to arrive in Azerbaijan from Pakistan in May.

Meanwhile, the trade turnover between Azerbaijan and Pakistan in 2022 amounted to $28.1 million, which is an increase of more than 140 percent year-on-year ($11.7 million in 2021). Azerbaijani exports to Pakistan in the reporting period totaled $7.6 million, while imports amounted to $20.5 million.
New Delhi, April 18 : The NIA has taken over the case of attack by pro-Khalistan protesters on the Indian High Commission in London on March 19, confirmed the agency to IANS on Tuesday.

The case was earlier registered with the Special Cell of the Delhi Police.

Earlier, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs gave the nod to transfer the case to NIA.

The Special Cell of Delhi Police had registered an FIR in connection with the protest staged by pro-Khalistani activists at the Indian High Commission in London on March 19 during which the Tricolour was pulled down from the premises.

The case was registered after the Union Ministry of Home Affairs asked Delhi Police to take legal action.

The FIR was registered under relevant sections of Indian Penal Code, Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act and an investigation has been initiated in the case.

The British Deputy High Commissioner was also summoned by the Centre, demanding an explanation over the complete absence of security during the protest.

The British High Commissioner to India, Alex Ellis had described the incident as "disgraceful" and "totally unacceptable".
Madrid, April 18 : FC Barcelona President Joan Laporta held a press conference to explain the ongoing scandal around the payments of over seven million euros that the club made to the former vice-president of the Spanish Referee's Federation Enriquez Negreira.

The implication is that Barcelona used the payments to try and ensure favorable refereeing decisions over an 18-year period.

Now, the club faces legal proceedings in Spain and an investigation from UEFA into the affair, a Xinhua report said.

Speaking at the Camp Nou Stadium, Laporta said the money was paid for reports on match officials.

"We received 629 reports from Negreira along with 43 CDs, along with other briefings," said Laporta in his briefing on Monday, insisting there was no attempt to influence referees.

"I have documentation that show that there have never been any payments that directly attempt to sway results in sporting competitions," he commented, saying the reports were "basically technical things" such as "the profile of the referee, what games the ref in question had overseen; their manner of officiating. Very detailed briefings with CD's adding more details. Very detailed information," he said.

Laporta also said all the payments were made with "detailed invoices" and declared to the tax authorities.

He said Negreira had also provided "profiles on other clubs," when there was not such a "high level of data available on players." "Barca has never paid money in order to gain a sporting advantage," said the Barca president.
New Delhi, April 18 : Full-Stack payments and banking platform Razorpay on Tuesday announced that it has set up an advisory board to strengthen corporate governance, with former RBI deputy governor N.S. Vishwanathan as Chairperson.

The company appointed Arijit Basu, former managing director, State Bank of India; former telecom secretary Aruna Sundararajan; and K.P. Krishnan, former secretary, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship as members of the advisory board.

All the members will periodically convene to review, analyse and provide recommendations and directions on both strategic and tactical levels.

"Now in our next phase of growth as India's leading end-to-end money movement platform for businesses, we have a strong intent to put in place further systems to uphold the highest standards of customer- experience and governance," said Harshil Mathur, CEO and Co-founder at Razorpay.

"It is pertinent that companies like ours are future-ready and agile to adapt to the ever-changing fintech environment," he added.

Razorpay is currently serving over 10 million businesses across the country.

The advisory board will assist Razorpay in developing long-term strategies, anticipating challenges and suggesting mitigation measures.

"This is an important step in promoting a culture of responsible innovation, something imperative for the development of a more sustainable and inclusive financial system for all," said Vishwanathan.

The advisory board will also help contribute to the development of Razorpay's payment infrastructure and help engage with key institutions and stakeholders, said the company.
Seoul, April 18 : Chinese President Xi Jinping has sent a letter to North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, expressing his willingness to strengthen strategic communication with the latter, Pyongyang's state media reported on Tuesday.

Xi expressed his "heartfelt" thanks to the North's leader in a reply sent on April 12 to Kim's earlier message congratulating Xi's election as the Chinese president for a third term, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

Xi said China and the North have maintained and developed their traditional friendly relations, even though international and regional security situations are changing "seriously and in a complicated way", reports Yonhap news Agency The Chinese leader expressed his willingness to elevate the bilateral ties to a higher level by "strengthening the strategic communication and jointly guiding" the development of the Beijing-Pyongyang relations with the North's leader, the KCNA said.

Kim sent a letter expressing his "warmest congratulations" to Xi on March 10, the day when he won an unprecedented third term as the Chinese president.

Prior to last week's letter, Xi delivered a similar message thanking the North's leader earlier this month via China's new ambassador to North Korea, Wang Yajun.

North Korea has been strengthening its ties with China, tits traditional ally and economic benefactor, amid global sanctions on its nuclear and missile programs, and stalled denuclearisation talks with the US.
Khartoum, April 18 : Ongoing violent clashes between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have so far killed 185 people and wounded another 1,800, a UN envoy confirmed.

Volker Perthes, head of the UN Integrated Transition Assistance Mission in Sudan, briefed the Security Council in a closed-door session on the latest situation of the conflict, reports Xinhua news agency.

"It's a very fluid situation, so it's very difficult to say where the balance is shifting to," Perthes told reporters after the meeting.

He said the two sides showed no signs of being willing to negotiate.

The violent clashes first erupted on April 15 between the SAF and RSF in Khartoum and other cities, with the two sides accusing each other of initiating the conflict.

The tension between the two military forces has escalated since April 12 in the Merowe region in northern Sudan, after the RSF moved military vehicles to a location near the military air base there, a move that the army considered illegal.

Deep differences have emerged between the Sudanese army and the RSF, particularly regarding the latter's integration into the army as stipulated in a framework agreement signed between military and civilian leaders on December 5, 2022.

The RSF was formed in 2013 and has its origins in the notorious Janjaweed militia that brutally fought off rebels in Darfur.

Since then, RSF leader Gen Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo has built a powerful force that has intervened in conflicts in Yemen and Libya and controls some of Sudan's gold mines.

It has also been accused of human rights abuses, including the massacre of more than 120 protesters in June 2019.

This fighting is the latest episode in bouts of tension that followed the ousting of long-serving President Omar al-Bashir in 2019.

There were huge street protests calling for an end to his near-three decade rule and the army mounted a coup to get rid of him.

But the civilians continued to demand a role in the plan to move towards democratic rule.

A joint military-civilian government was then established but that was overthrown in another coup in October 2021.

And since then the rivalry between Gen Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, who is the head of the armed forces and in effect the country's president, and Gen Dagalo has intensified.
Bhopal, April 18 : Five year-old Oban - one of the eight Namibian cheetahs - has once again slipped out of Kuno National Park (KNP) and was spotted in neighbouring Shivpuri forest division around 15 km from his habitat.

According to forest officials at KNP, male cheetah has moved out of enclosures for the second time within the span of two weeks. Last time, Oban was brought back to KNP from a nearby farm at village after five days of efforts by forest officials and was tranquilised.

Last time, Oban had moved out of KNP on April 2 and was brought back on April 6.

This time, it has ventured much further, putting the forest officials accountable to ensure his safety on their toes. "Oban is out of KNP's core area of 748 sq km, and its surrounding 487 sq km buffer zone since Sunday and is in neighbouring Shivpuri forest division," a forest official told IANS.

Forest officials said that this time they will not tranquilise him for time being as the process may affect his health. Officials have observed that Namibian cheetahs seem to prefer water-logged fields and river valleys over dense forest forests.

Last week, Oban was spotted sitting in the cool patches of the river valley or under the shade of trees before exploring beyond the protected area under KNP on Saturday night. However, by next morning, he was spotted around 15 km away from the protected zone.

However, the officials claim that Oban does not pose a threat to humans, nor do humans pose a threat to it. So there will be no need for tranquilisation to bring it back. They said Oban's movements are being monitored to locate his whereabouts.
Bengaluru, April 18 : With 308 fresh Covid cases being recorded in Bengaluru in the last 24 hours, the authorities are concerned with the surge in the number.

The surge has been reported in Bengaluru Urban district. There are 1,207 active cases in the city. The 308 fresh cases in Bengaluru are the second highest in this year.

On April 13, 328 cases of fresh Covid cases were reported in Bengaluru against 167 discharges.

After Bengaluru, Ballary district reported the most number of cases (10). In all other districts the Covid cases are in single digits and in 17 districts zero number of cases were reported.

According to the latest bulletin released by the health department (till Monday evening), there are 1,904 active cases in the state. The state reported 358 new Covid cases against 529 discharges.

One death was reported in Kalaburagi district and the positivity rate for the day rose to 8.92 per cent.

As the state in poll mode and voting is scheduled for May 10, the situation in Bengaluru in connection with rising Covid cases is worrying the authorities. Sources in the health department reveal that this is the time to implement Covid guidelines and strict measures.
Seoul, April 18 : Nearly 100 flights were grounded on South Korea's Jeju Island on Tuesday due to dangerous wind conditions.

The weather authorities issued alerts for high winds and wind shear, which refers to sudden changes in wind direction and speed, for the island, reports Yonhap news agency.

As of 8.50 a.m., Jeju International Airport had reported the cancellation of 97 domestic flights to and from the airport.

In addition, a flight from Singapore, scheduled to arrive at Jeju at 6.45 a.m., was diverted.

A total of 480 flights were scheduled for Tuesday.

In the early morning, wind gusts of 12.8 meters per second blew in areas surrounding the airport.

The wind is forecast to range between 10.3-15.6 mps in the afternoon.

The strong winds also disrupted sea transportation with 43 passenger ships to and from Jeju cancelled.

"Since strong winds are expected to disrupt flight operations, travellers are advised to check the flight status in advance," an official at Jeju Airport said.
Nairobi, April 18 : Kenya has announced plans to evacuate 3,000 of its nationals in Sudan amid the ongoing violent clashes that has killed 185 people so far.

Roseline Njogu, principal secretary for State Department for Diaspora Affairs, told the media here that despite the closure of Sudan's airspace, the country has constituted a multi-agency technical team that is monitoring the evolving situation on a real-time basis, reports Xinhua news agency.

"We are assembling all the logistics required to evacuate our citizens once Sudan's airspace is open and there is the ability to move people safely," Njogu said.

Clashes that erupted on April 15 have spread in many parts of Khartoum, the capital of Sudan, and other areas outside the capital.

Njogu observed that Kenya is committed to ensuring all its nationals are safely rescued and brought home if their lives are in danger or in the case of a humanitarian crisis.

She also appealed to the warring parties to embrace peace and dialogue to resolve their differences.
New Delhi, April 18 : Twitter has put more 'government-funded media' labels on the accounts of global news outlets like Australian Broadcasting Company (ABC Australia), Australia's Special Broadcasting Service (SBS), New Zealand's public broadcaster RNZ, Sweden's SR Ekot and SVT, and Catalonia's TV3.cat.

The micro-blogging platform earlier placed the 'publicly-funded' label to the BBC account and applied the 'government-funded' label to US-based NPR.

ABC News said in a tweet that it is a publicly funded broadcaster, "governed by the ABC Charter which is enshrined in legislation".

"For more than 90 years, the ABC has always been and remains an independent media organisation, free from political and commercial interests," it argued.

SBS said the label might lead Twitter users to believe that the outlet is editorially controlled by the government.

"While we appreciate Twitter's motivations with regard to transparency on its platform, we believe a 'Publicly-funded media' label better reflects the hybrid public-commercial nature of our funding model and the fact that SBS retains full independence from government in our news editorial and content decision making," a company spokesperson said in a statement.

FYI: The ABC is a publicly funded broadcaster, governed by the ABC Charter which is enshrined in legislation. For more than 90 years the ABC has always been and remains an independent media organisation, free from political and commercial interests.  ABC News (@abcnews) April 17, 2023

CBC/Radio-Canada tweeted that "our journalism is impartial and independent".

"To suggest otherwise is untrue. That is why we are pausing our activities on @Twitter," it added.

Our journalism is impartial and independent. To suggest otherwise is untrue. That is why we are pausing our activities on @Twitter. | Notre journalisme est impartial et independant. Pretendre le contraire est faux. Cest pourquoi nous suspendons nos activites sur @Twitter.  CBC/Radio-Canada (@CBCRadioCanada) April 17, 2023

Last week, American media outlet NPR became the first major news organisation to quit Twitter after the Elon Musk-run platform labelled it as a government-funded organisation.

After NPR, the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) also left Twitter after being labelled as government-backed media.

-- Syndicated from IANS
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. Russia and Azerbaijan have great prospects for the further growth of trade and economic cooperation, Vice-President of the Russian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Maxim Fateyev said, Trend reports.

Fateyev made the remark during a round table themed "Russia-Azerbaijan: strategy of business interaction, opportunities for cooperation and partnership".

According to him, all regions of Russia are interested in expanding cooperation with Azerbaijan.

"Russian companies are first of all interested in expanding cooperation in the sectors of transport, industry, shipbuilding, agriculture and investment, as well as on digital transformation projects," Fateyev said.

Fateyev further said that the interest of business entities of the two countries indicates great prospects for further growth in trade and economic cooperation.

"Russia and Azerbaijan continue to develop multilateral cooperation and the Russian-Azerbaijani Business Council [established in 2016] is an important means for the development," he added.

Trade turnover between Azerbaijan and Russia amounted to $3.71 billion in 2022, increasing by 23 percent compared to 2021. The share of trade operations with Russia stood at 7.04 percent of the total foreign trade turnover of Azerbaijan last year.
Seoul, April 18 : South Korea's Unification Ministry warned North Korea on Tuesday against its unauthorised use of a now-shuttered joint industrial park, saying it will take necessary measures even if it takes time.

The Ministry's call came amid a media report that the North has resumed the operation of some 30 factories at the Kaesong Industrial Complex in the North's namesake border city without permit, reports Yonhap News Agency.

"It is true that more North Korean workers are commuting, compared with the past," a Ministry official told reporters, without elaborating on the details.

The official said the government is "thoroughly" reviewing legal actions against the North's infringement on South Korean companies' property rights.

"Even if it takes time, the government will hold the North accountable for (its unlawful) act and demand necessary compensation," he added.

Last week, Unification Minister Kwon Young-se voiced "strong" regret over the North's unlawful use of South Korean assets left behind in the factory zone, and vowed to take "all possible measures" to hold the secretive regime accountable.

Signs of the North's unauthorised operation of the industrial complex have continued to be detected.

South Korean commuter buses used to transport the North's workers to the factory zone before its 2016 closure were seen operating in the streets of Pyongyang and Kaesong in the latest photos and video footage carried by the North's state media.

South Korea shut down the joint industrial park, once a symbol of inter-Korean reconciliation, in February 2016 in response to North Korea's nuclear and long-range missile tests.
Thiruvananthapuram, April 18 : A top Maoist leader from Jharkhand, who was staying in a migrant labour camp at Kozhikode, was nabbed in a joint operation of the Kerala and Jharkhand police on Tuesday.

According to the Kerala police, they got a tip-off from their counterpart in Jharkhand and tracked down Ajay Oja to a migrant labour camp at Kozhikode.

This morning, a team of police officials from both the states took into custody Oja, who is understood to be a top Maoist leader at Jharkhand and has been in jail also in the past.

Incidentally, the criminal is understood to have stayed at the Kozhikode labour camp for over a month now.
Sanaa, April 18 : The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) announced that 104 Yemeni detainees were unilaterally released by Saudi Arabia.

The move followed a large-scale three-day prisoner swap between the Yemeni government, the Saudi-led coalition, and the Houthi rebels that ended on Sunday, reports Xinhua news agency.

The ICRC facilitated the release of 104 detainees from Saudi Arabia to Yemen at the request of the Saudi-led coalition, the statement said.

Two ICRC planes carried 96 released prisoners from Saudi Arabia's Abha International Airport to Sanaa, Yemen's capital, while another ICRC plane transported eight freed prisoners from Abha to Aden, a port city held by coalition-aligned forces in Yemen.

"I am deeply moved and proud that our teams could reunite so many detainees with their families over the last four days and we stand ready to do so for those who are yet to be released," ICRC President Mirjana Spoljaric was quoted as saying in the statement.

Daphnee Maret, ICRC's head of delegation in Yemen, noted that these release operations have enabled the reunion of hundreds of families just in time for Eid celebrations and expressed hope that they would bring the conflict closer to an end and alleviate years of human suffering.

Meanwhile, the Houthi-run al-Masirah TV confirmed the arrivals of three ICRC planes at the airports of Sanaa and Aden.

Earlier on Monday, Turki Al-Malki, the spokesman for the Saudi-led coalition, said the unilateral release was part of "efforts to stabilize the ceasefire and create an atmosphere for dialogue between the Yemeni parties in order to reach a comprehensive and sustainable political solution that ends the crisis".

The latest move comes amid increasing international efforts to bring peace to Yemen and end the prolonged civil war that erupted in late 2014, when the Iran-backed Houthi militia seized control of several northern cities and displaced the Saudi-backed government from the capital Sanaa.

The Saudi Arabia-led coalition intervened in the conflict in support of the Yemeni government in 2015.
Valletta, April 18 : Around 60 migrants were taken to Malta after being rescued from rough seas as they attempted to cross to Europe from Libya.

Two groups of people were saved by merchant vessels in Malta's search and rescue zone, reports Xinhua news agency.

The rescue was carried out on the instructions of the Maltese authorities, after the migrants reported being in distress.

The two groups were on Monday evening brought to Marsaxlokk, south of the island, by the Armed Forces of Malta.

They were given foil blankets to prevent hypothermia, after spending several days at sea.

The wind had picked up over the weekend, making their voyage especially difficult.

The migrants, many of whom barefoot, were taken to Detention Services vans on arrival.

Their nationalities are not yet known.

On Sunday, the NGO Alarm Phone accused the Maltese authorities of refusing to rescue the groups despite bad weather.

The following day, the NGO announced that the group had been rescued on orders from the Maltese authorities.

However, the latter did not issue an official statement on the rescue.

This was the first arrival of migrants in several months.

Over 26,000 people have died or gone missing while crossing the Mediterranean since 2014, according to the UN.
Mumbai, April 18 : Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar on Tuesday rubbished all speculation that his nephew, Ajit Pawar would trigger a fresh 'political earthquake' by joining hands with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

"There's no truth in the talks about Ajit Pawar... He has not called any (MLAs) meetings today... We are all working unitedly to strengthen the NCP," Pawar said when besieged by mediapersons.

"What's in your mind is not in our thoughts," added Pawar for added effect, amid unconfirmed reports claiming that Ajit Pawar commands the support of at least 40 NCP MLAs.

Earlier in the day, the Leader of Opposition (Assembly) Ajit Pawar also scotched all the rumours and so-called discussions as 'false', while his cousin and MP Supriya Sule declined to speak on the issue.

Other senior party leaders have also repeatedly scoffed at the intense speculation over the past few days on the issue -- that Ajit Pawar would do to the NCP what 'Eknath Shinde' did to the Shiv Sena in June 2022 -- as some NCP legislators have come out openly in support of him (Ajit Pawar).

Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) leaders like Congress state President Nana Patole and Shiv Sena (UBT) Leader of Opposition (Council) Ambadas Danve have also expressed full faith that Ajit Pawar may not resort to any such political adventures at this juncture.

Some leaders have pointed fingers at the BJP accusing it of deliberately attempting to divide the Opposition and trying to divert attention from its failures on various fronts.
Howrah: President Droupadi Murmu with West Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose during her visit to Belur Math, in Howrah district, on Tuesday, March 28, 2023. (Photo:Kuntal Chakrabarty/IANS) Image Source: IANS News

Kolkata, April 18 : The National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) will report to President Droupadi Murmu and the West Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose on the plight of political prisoners from the Scheduled Caste community who are locked in different correctional homes in the state.

Recently an NCSC team headed by the commission's vice chairman Arun Halder made a sudden spot-visit to one of the central correctional homes in Kolkata and reviewed the situation.

The commission has decided to report to the President and West Bengal Governor about their finds, Halder informed media persons. According to him, there are several political prisoners from the Scheduled Caste community who had been locked in the different correctional homes in the state without trial for years.

He also alleged that although the matter had been brought to the notice of the state secretariat, a number of times there had been no response on this count from the latter. Halder also alleged pressure on the undertrial prisoners from the Scheduled Caste community to frequently change their statements in the cases concerned, which is delaying the process of justice.

"Hence we have decided to take up the matter with the Indian President and the West Bengal Governor," he added.

However, the West Bengal minister of state for correctional services department Akhil Giri has rubbished the claims by the commission.

"The commission representatives came to a central correctional home as part of their routine visit. The commission members did their duty. But I totally disagree with the allegations made by them. These charges are baseless," the minister said.
New Delhi, April 18: It is not immediately clear if China is sending any representative for participation but decks have been cleared for holding the first G20 event in the Union Territory of Ladakh from April 26 to 29. It will be a Youth-20 (Y20) rendezvous during which the foreign delegates from G20 will also be taken to the famous Pangong Lake, on the Line of Actual Control with China.

Informed sources said that some key programmes would be held in the capital city of Leh but the delegates would also be visiting a number of the Buddhist religious and cultural sites during their four-day schedules in Ladakh. It is part of the G20 summit events across the country as India is currently holding the presidency of the world group for a year.

As of now, only Pakistan has raised objections to holding of G20 events in the UTs of Jammu and Kashmir, calling the territories as "disputed" but India has rejected the same and maintained that it was 'natural' to hold such events in all of the Indian states and UTs including Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. None of the G20 countries, including her traditional friends like Turkey, Saudi Arabia and UAE have supported Pakistan or decided to stay away from the events to be held in the two UTs.

Reports from Islamabad indicate that Pakistan is using all means at her disposal, including some further concessions on CPEC, to stop China from attending G20 and Y20 programmes in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Sources said that in all 70 delegates from G20 member nations, including the US, Russia and the European Union, would participate in the Y20 event in Ladakh.

Sources said that due to the hectic schedule of the international delegates, their visit to Kargil district had been cancelled at the eleventh hour. Now, students from different colleges of Kargil will be taken to Leh to attend the Youth-20 summit. As per the schedule, the international delegates will reach Leh on April 26 and will take rest for a day for necessary acclimatisation in the high altitude territory.

The Y-20 meeting will be held on April 27. One-day sightseeing including a visit to Pangong lake and some Buddhist religious places is proposed on April 28 while the delegates are scheduled to return to Delhi on April 29.

"The four-day Youth-20 meeting under G20 summit at Leh and visit of the delegates to Pangong lake, which flows along the LAC with China in Eastern Ladakh, will send a strong message to China which had opposed such a meeting in the UT," said an official.

Sources said the Central teams of two Union Ministries will visit Leh ahead of the Y-20 summit to review arrangements, both in terms of boarding and lodging and security. However, they added, security is not a major concern in Ladakh which is completely a peaceful area with no signs of militancy.

Elaborate security arrangements are being put in place with deployment of the Ladakh Police and paramilitary forces at the international event's venue, the hotels where the delegates would stay and places of their visit. Security and other arrangements for the event are being constantly monitored by Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Brig (Retired) BD Mishra and senior officers of civil and police administration.

All eyes will also be on the attendance of the three G-20 countries that are also members of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) - Turkey, Indonesia and Saudi Arabia. The OIC has issued several statements criticising India for its move to reorganize Jammu and Kashmir in 2019.

Sources said Turkey might be unable to send officials, given the Presidential and Parliament elections that are due to be held next month, while a response is awaited from Indonesia.

The Working Group on Tourism of G20 is meeting in Srinagar in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir from May 22-25. The international delegates will arrive in Srinagar on May 22 while their meeting will be held on May 23. Sightseeing including Shikara ride in Dal lake, visit to Dachigam Wildlife Sanctuary and Gulmarg is proposed on May 24 while the delegates would return to Jammu on May 25.

(The content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com) --indianarrative
Chennai, April 18 : The Tamil Nadu health department has urged people to be cautious and not venture out in the sun amid soaring temperatures across the state.

In a circular to district health officials, the department has directed them to raise awareness among the people on the rising temperature and to remain indoors during the afternoon to prevent from having a sun stroke and other issues related to heat.

In Erode, the maximum temperature on Monday was recorded at 41 degrees Celsius, which was 3.2 degrees higher than the normal during this time of the year.

This was also the highest temperature recorded in Tamil Nadu during this season.

The weather department has predicted that Chennai, Tirunelvelli, Tirupattur, Ramanathapuram, Vellore and Erode could witness a rise in temperature by 1 to 3 degrees in the coming days.

The neighbouring Andhra Pradesh is already experiencing a heat wave and this, according to weather department could lead to a spike in mercury in Tamil Nadu.

The weather department has however predicted light to moderate rains on April 21 and 22 and this could bring respite from the scorching heat.
New Delhi, April 18 : The Delhi High Court on Tuesday refused to entertain a plea seeking direction to the Law Commission to prepare a report on the Uniform Judicial Code (UJC), in order to make legal terms, abbreviations, case registration processes, and other aspects of the legal system similar across the country.

A division bench of Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma and Justice Yashwant Varma asked Upadhyay to seek clarification in respect of an order passed by the Supreme Court which had dismissed a similar plea moved by him as withdrawn.

"Learned counsel for the petitioner prays for liberty to withdraw the petition. Dismissed as withdrawn," the Supreme Court had said in its order.

Accordingly, the PIL was withdrawn by Upadhyay. However, the court granted him liberty to seek clarification of the order of the top court.

"The petition is withdrawn with liberty," the bench said.

A plea was moved in the High Court on April 13 by petitioner-lawyer and BJP leader Ashwini Kumar Upadhyay.

Comparing judicial terms, abbreviations, norms, phrases, court fees and case registration processes between the Delhi High Court and the Allahabad High Court, there is a huge difference, Upadhyay had said in his plea filed in form of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL).

The plea cited instances of various variant terms employed by Rajasthan High Court and Bombay High Court benches and claims that these led to misunderstandings.

Upadhyay also drew attention to the disparities in court fees demanded for cases with similar facts and values in other states, which causes injury to citizens.

"Unequal court fees in different states discriminate among citizens based on their place of birth and residence," the plea added.

It further claimed that courts are demanding separate court fees, which is against the rule of law and the right to justice, in addition to utilising different judicial terminology, phrases, and acronyms and adopting different standards and procedures for case registration.

In order to standardise judicial words, acronyms, norms, phrases, court fee structures, and case registration procedures, the PIL prays that the Law Commission of India be directed to prepare a thorough report on the UJC in consultation with the High Courts.

The PIL prayed that the Law Ministry be directed to take appropriate steps to prepare a comprehensive report on UJC in consultation with the High Courts and constitute an Expert Committee to prepare a comprehensive report on UJC in consultation with the High Courts.
Agra April 18 : Even as World Heritage Day, also known as International Day for Monuments and Sites, is being observed on Tuesday, the residents of the Taj City have largely forgotten its importance and show no particular passion for conserving the precious heritage wealth of the city that draws millions annually.

Though the Archaeological Survey of India has declared free entry to the monuments, the locals are busy in the high-voltage election campaign for the municipal corporation. ASI officials said the day was dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of preserving cultural heritage and protecting historical sites around the world.

The day was first proposed by the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) in 1982 and was later approved by UNESCO in 1983. Each year, a theme is chosen to focus on a particular aspect of cultural heritage. In recent years, themes have included sustainable tourism, cultural landscapes, and indigenous peoples.

Heritage conservationists say that the Day provides an opportunity to celebrate cultural diversity and promote the importance of preserving historical landmarks, monuments, and sites. It also serves as a reminder of the need for ongoing efforts to protect and preserve these important cultural resources for future generations.

Agra, is famous for its rich historical and cultural heritage. It is home to several iconic monuments that are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, like the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Sikandra, Fatehpur Sikri, Etmauddaula. Each of these monuments is a testament to the rich history and culture of the city and attracts visitors from around the world.

Though Agra is not celebrating the day, conservationists and green activists have once again highlighted the failure of the Archaeological Survey of India to free the string of monuments in the city of the encroachments that were seen as a major threat to the health and safety of these precious properties.

"The increasing visual pollution was another cause of concern," warned environmentalist Devashish Bhattacharya. High-rise buildings coming up in all parts had gravely distorted the original ambiance around several structures, he added.

The local bodies however had failed to restrict illegal constructions around these buildings, thus compromising the architectural integrity of the city, Bhattacharya added.

Almost all Mughal monuments here have now been dwarfed by encroachments. While restricting space and cluttering up and thus destroying the beauty of the historical buildings, these encroachments now have reached such levels of proliferation that the very survival of some monuments is at stake.

The Taj Mahal, surrounded by mohallas of the Taj Ganj locality, has been able to breathe easily because of the Supreme Court judgments seeking its conservation; international concern for its safety has also aided the cause of the preservation of the Taj Mahal.

But other lesser-known monuments have not experienced such luck. Delhi Gate, close to the Raja Mandi station, finds itself threatened by new constructions, mostly private nursing homes and garages that were not there before. The district authorities have failed to act against the encroachers.

The world heritage site, Mughal emperor Akbar's deserted capital Fatehpur Sikri complex continues to be threatened by the illegal activities of the mining mafia, which has been carrying on operations without fear, even though the Supreme Court has given a categorical directive to district authorities to stop mining in the area.

The city of the Taj has numerous monuments which come under the protected list. Over the years, because of governmental indifference and corrupt practices, no action has been taken against people who built houses and places of worship around these monuments.

The chief reason why historical monuments in Agra face a threat from encroachers is the total indifference and lack of passionate involvement with their heritage.

"People in Agra demonstrate no particular pride in their history or heritage, rather these structures are seen as a villain stalling march to development and progress," says Sonal Mittal Singh, vice president of the Braj Mandal Heritage Conservation Society.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. Another company has been granted residentship in Azerbaijan's Aghdam Industrial Park, Trend reports via the tweet of Azerbaijan's Economy Minister Mikayil Jabbarov.

According to the minister, Aghdam Sud LLC has obtained resident status.

"Aghdam Sud LLC will establish manufacturing of dairy products with an investment of 2.2 million manat ($1.2 million). As a result, 40 people will be provided with a job," said the minister.

Thus, the number of residents of the Aghdam Industrial Park has reached 16 enterprises, while 5 premises have the status of non-resident.

On May 28, 2021, the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev attended a groundbreaking ceremony for the Aghdam Industrial Park.

The list of residents of the Aghdam Industrial Park is as follows: BAFCO Invest LLC, Qarabag Steel LLC, Thermo Natural Azerbaijan LLC, NN-Tel Group LLC, Rail Trans Service LLC, Mister Decor LLC, Almet Holding CJSC, Eel Electric LLC, Dadash-N LLC, Veliyev LLC, Agtekstil LLC, Prof-Dam LLC, Metkons LLC, Expert Services FZE LLC, Agah Group LLC, Aghdam Sud LLC.
Los Angeles, April 18 : Hollywood star Jeremy Renner returned to hospital, in which he underwent treatment after snowplough accident, and expressed his gratitude to the medical staff who saved his life.

The 52-year-old made use of Instagram Story to share photographs from his visit to the hospital. One photograph in particular captured him posing with medical staff in front of a TV screen that displayed "Welcome back!" on it. Over the snap, he noted, "I got to revisit the amazing group of people who saved my life." Just days before, Renner revealed his plan to return to the hospital, reports aceshowbiz.com.

"I'm going back to this hospital this week to apologise to every one of those nurses. I'm going to apologise," he spilled in the Monday, April 10 episode of "Jimmy Kimmel Live!".

On the reason why, Jeremy explained to host Jimmy Kimmel as saying, "I kept trying to get out of the hospital as soon as I was in it. I'm like, 'I'm out of here.' I hate what I was wearing, gross. It was terrible." "They weren't done with the ICU area when I got there, so they put me like, in a janitor's closet, like it was a VIP thing." "It had no bathroom in it. The lights are flickering, everyone here is moaning, like they're dying in the ICU. I'm like, 'This is like a haunted house and it's called ICU,' like, 'I seeee youuuu,' which is creepy. I'm like, 'I want out of this place! I'm not going to get better here'," he continued dishing.

Renner previously opened up about his "number one" inspiration in his road to recovery. "My daughter, for sure, number one. And then my family, and then my will. It's like, well, if I was going to go, I guess, it's one or the other," he revealed in the April 11 interview with E! News.

"There's no alternative to like, 'Alright, I'm going to be living so, let's go really live and get it done.' So there's no alternative. I have to kind of do something," he went on to share.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Guwahati, April 18 : While the opposition parties in Assam are still struggling to put their house in order, the ruling BJP has started to tighten its belt with a target of winning most of the Lok Sabha seats in the state in the 2024 general election.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP national president J.P. Nadda are scheduled to visit the state in May for meetings with party workers.

The BJP has set a target to win 12 of the 14 Lok Sabha seats.

According to sources, the party however may face a stiff challenge in four constituencies -- Dhubri, Kaliabor, Barpeta, and Nagaon.

The state BJP president, Bhavesh Kalita, claimed that the party will win 12 seats.

According to Kalita, the BJP has already started sharpening its tactics with an eye on the Lok Sabha elections.

Once the Rongali Bihu celebrations are over, they will start preparing for 2024 in full force.

He said that a meeting of 1,000 core members of the party will be held on April 23.

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Mann Ki Baat programme will complete 100 episodes this month, the Assam BJP has planned a mega event that will witness the presence of at least 1,000 party workers at each booth.

Kalita said that Shah and Nadda will join the 'Lok Sabha Prabas Yojana' after the Karnataka Assembly elections.

The BJP will implement this party programme in every Lok Sabha constituency.

According to a top party leader, Nadda will probably visit the state on the second week of May to begin the party's poll campaign for 2024.

Meanwhile, the party general secretary and Mangaldoi Lok Sabha MP Dilip Shaikia said that they are not giving importance to opposition unity.

"Opposition unity is khichdi, it will again prove to be a failure. We will win 12 Lok Sabha seats." The BJP has aimed to defeat Congress in the Kaliabor constituency which been long been a Congress stronghold.

Late Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi's son Gaurav Gogoi is currently the Kaliabor MP.

According to party sources, the saffron camp is desperate to win the seat this time.
Islamabad, April 18 : Ubaid-ur-Rehman Nizamani, Pakistans head of the diplomatic mission in Kabul, has returned to the Afghan capital more than four months after he survived an assassination attempt.

Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch confirmed that the Pakistani charge d'affaires returned to Kabul on Monday, The Express Tribune reported.

The return of the top diplomat came just days after Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari spoke to Acting Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi.

Sources said the decision to send back the Pakistani acting ambassador was taken during the telephone call.

Nizamani was on a routine walk inside the embassy compound in Kabul on December 2, 2022, when shooters opened fire at him from a nearby multi-storey building.

He escaped unhurt, but his Pakistani security guard sustained bullet injuries in the legs. Pakistan immediately evacuated the chief diplomat and demanded the Taliban enhance the security of its embassy, The Express Tribune reported.

However, it was not clear at the time that it would take over four months for Pakistan to send back its envoy to Kabul.

The delay was attributed to a lack of security as well as friction between the two sides on a range of issues, particularly the continued attacks by the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) terror group.

The development came ahead of the visit of Muttaqi to Pakistan.

The sources said Bilawal extended the formal invitation to his Afghan counterpart during the telephonic conversation.

Though no official confirmation was available, the sources said Muttaqi is expected to travel to Islamabad in the first week of May, The Express Tribune reported.
Bengaluru, April 18 : The candidate of Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI) for Mangaluru constituency, Riyaz Farangipet who has submitted nomination to contest from the Ullal constituency in Mangaluru, faces alleged sedition charges and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) is closely watching his movements.

The SDPI has fielded a formidable candidate in the form of Riyaz, to wrestle the Mangaluru constituency from Congress, U.T. Khader, former minister and senior Congress leader. The constituency is considered as the bastion of Congress so far.

Riyaz, the national secretary of SDPI, was accused of hatching a conspiracy to attack Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the Phulwari Sharif Aarea of Bihar on July 12, 2022. The investigations allegedly revealed Riyaz's links with accused persons. The NIA had filed an FIR against him. He is alleged to have taken part in the meetings with accused persons in planning.

In 2022, NIA had lodged an FIR against him on charges of sedition. The case is being investigated under IPC Sections 120, 120 (B), 121, 121 (A), 1s3(A), 1s3(B) read with 34.

Apart from this, there are many cases lodged against him in Belthangady, Mangaluru South, Konaje, Mangaluru North, East police stations in Dakshina Kannada district. He is facing charges of creating enmity between groups, obstructing the duty of policemen.

Riyaz Farangipet had taken out a massive rally to file nomination for the Mangaluru constituency on Monday. Sources said that the SDPI had aggressively campaigned against Congress candidate Khader, in the wake of hijab controversy and boycott call on Muslim traders.

Khader had won from this constituency three times since 2008 by defeating BJP candidates. In 2018 Khader defeated Santhosh Kumar Rai Boliyaru from BJP by more than 19,000 votes. BJP had won this constituency constantly for three times between 1994 to 2004.

Khader, known as a progressive leader, is facing stiff competition from the SDPI this time in the Muslim dominated constituency. It was the only constituency to be won by the Congress in the 2018 elections. All seats of the district were won by BJP.
Hyderabad, April 18 : A man strangled his mother to death and buried her as he felt her to be a burden.

The shocking incident occurred in Kamareddy district of Telangana. According to police, one Chinna Balayya killed his mother E. Balavva (80), who was ailing and bedridden, by throttling her with a piece of cloth and later buried her.

A few days ago, Balayya told his neighbours in Sadashiv Nagar that his mother had gone missing. He claimed that the room in which she was staying was found locked from outside.

However, a local public representative grew suspicious about his version. Beeraiah, a member of Mandal Parishad Territorial Committee (MPTC), lodged a complaint with the police. The police investigation revealed the shocking details.

Balayya confessed to killing his mother. He told police that she had become a burden for him and he was unable to take care of her. On the night of April 13, he strangled his mother to death with a piece of cloth. He then carried her body to a deserted place behind a rice mill and buried her after digging a ditch.

Police in the presence of local civil officials extricated the body on Monday and sent it for autopsy. "We have arrested the accused and further investigations are on," said Circle Inspector Raman.
Islamabad, April 18 : The heads of Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and the Military Intelligence (MI) have briefed the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) regarding the challenges faced by the military establishment in reference to the provision of security for the May 14 elections in Punjab province, according to sources.

The sources said that the closed door meeting which also included two other apex court judges, lasted for over three hours. It was held at the CJP's chamber.

On April 4, a three-member bench comprising the CJP and the two judges had declared the decision of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to postpone the Punjab elections as unconstitutional and ordered it to hold the polls by May 14.

During the meeting, the three judges were apprised about the serious security challenges in terms of terrorism and ongoing attacks targeting security officials are keeping the troops engaged.

The briefing is also believed to have highlighted about the serious security challenges that would be confronted if elections in Punjab province were held on May 14, as per the apex court's order.

The important closed door briefing holds massive importance as election for the Punjab Assembly have been one of the top demands of former premier Imran Khan and his party members, who had dissolved both Punjab and the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's provincial assemblies in order to force early general election in the country.

However, the ruling government countered the move by instating a caretaker government setup with a mandate of holding elections in their respective provinces within 90 days.

But since the caretaker setup has taken over, Khan has said that the government has not intention to hold provincial elections within 90 days, adding that the government wants to extend the tenure of the caretaker setup, which is unconstitutional.

On the other hand, the government maintains that it has multiple issues in relation to holding elections within 90 days in the two provinces.

The government states that the country's drained financial situation doesn't allow it to allocate funds to ECP to conduct elections.

It also maintains that as the current population census is underway, the elections would be held after its completion, as new constituencies would be formed as per the new census date.

Moreover, the government also maintains that provision of security for the provincial elections in Punjab is also not possible as the troops are engaged in security of the census teams, adding that the current surge of terrorism in the country also, does not deem the situation fit to have public gatherings, including voting.
London, April 18 : A British Indian organisation has objected to the newly-formed parliamentary group for Gujaratis, calling it divisive, and an attack on the unity of the British Indian community.

The All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for British Gujaratis is chaired, and was set up last month by UK MP Gareth Thomas with support from MPs across the House of Commons and peers.

In a letter to Thomas, the Friends of India Society International (FISI), an organisation that works towards strengthening ties between India and the UK, said it is deeply perturbed to learn about the newly formed APPG for British Gujaratis.

"We see this move as divisive and against the interests of the British Indian community. We fail to see any concrete reasons for its creation as the concerns raised are not separate from those of the British Indian Community and hence the same can be addressed through APPG for British Hindus and APPG for India," the letter read.

"We view this attempt to create an APPG solely for Gujaratis as an attack on the unity of the British Indian community and also on India that has eternally stood for unity in diversity," FISI said, urging the office bearers to dissolve the group.

"Any organisation that divides a community instead of uniting it has already defeated the object...," Rami Ranger, a member of the House of Lords, wrote in a tweet.

Members of APPG for Gujaratis, include Conservative MP Bob Blackman, Labour MP Navendu Mishra, Conservative MP Shailesh Vara, Liberal Democrat peer Lord Dholakia and Labour MP Virendra Sharma.

The group aims to raise issues and concerns of the community and provide them and Parliament with a better two-way consultation process to inform improved decision-making.

The Gujarati population in the UK is over 800,000 and is mostly concentrated in metropolitan areas like Greater London, East Midlands, West Midlands, Lancashire, and Yorkshire.

Most Gujaratis arrived in the UK during a huge migration wave in the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s mainly from India and East African Countries.

The public launch of APPG for British Gujaratis will take place on April 25 inside the Houses of Parliament, where invited guests will include community and business leaders, representatives of temples, charities and groups from the Gujarati community.

The public launch will also coincide with Gujarat Day.
Colombo, April 18 : Sri Lanka has denied the construction of a China-assisted remote satellite receiving ground station in the southern part of the island nation, reports of which led to concerns in India regarding its security.

Sri Lankan Cabinet spokesman Bandula Gunawardena on Tuesday denied setting up the radar base near Dondra Bay in the island's southern most-tip.

Media reports had indicated that the so-called construction which alleged to have planned along with a military facility on Coco Island in Myanmar had raised concerns in India of possible surveillance across the region.

The reports had also warned that China would be able to monitor Kudankulam and Kalpakkam nuclear power plants, India's strategic assets in the south, track movement of Indian Navy vessels travelling to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and the activities of the Indian Navy in the Indian Ocean Region and US military activities in Diego Garcia.

"We haven't received any information about such a report," Gunawardena said when questioned by journalists.

The media reports stated that China had proposed setting up a remote satellite receiving ground station system through a collaborative effort between the Aerospace Information Research Institute under the Chinese Academy of Sciences and state-run University of Ruhuna in southern Sri Lanka.

The reports also had warned that given its strategic location, proposed project could be used to spy on Indian assets and intercept sensitive information and also across the region.

When contacted by IANS, Professor Disna Ratnasekera, Co-Director of China-Sri Lanka Joint Centre for Education and Research (CSL-CER) at the University of Ruhuna, also denied having any project relating to radar systems.

"We have not aware about any such project. Besides the university doesn't have any properties in the area mentioned in the media reports," Prof. Ratnasekera said.

"This is a university involves in academic and research activities and as an academic institution we would not involve in anything that would harm or damage any other country. We are not aware about any radar project," she told IANS, adding that there were some collaborations and joint-ventures related to academic and research with China.

"These are relating to oceanology, biodiversity, climate change and water related studies with the participation of academics from both China and Sri Lanka," she added.

Last year, India raised a security concern when Chinese surveillance vessel Yuan Wang 5 docked at the Hambantota Port.

Following India's warning last August, the Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry asked China to defer the ship's port call but later gave permission to dock on the condition it would not carry out research activities while in Sri Lankan waters.

Built with Chinese loan, in December 2017 Sri Lanka had to handover the Hambantota port on a 99-year lease to China unable to repay its debt.

-- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed
Hyderabad, April 18 : A fast-track court on Tuesday sentenced a driver of a private school in Hyderabad to a 20 years in jail for sexually assaulting a four-year-old student.

The court held Beemana Rajani Kumar (34) guilty and awarded the sentence. It, however, acquitted school principal S. Madhavi.

Kumar, who was working as the principal's driver, was arrested on October 19 last year for sexually assaulting the LKG student.

The principal of DAV Public School in Banjara Hills was also arrested for negligence.

The incident came to light after the parents of the victim noticed behavioral changes in her.

When enquired, she told them that Rajani Kumar had been sexually assaulting her for the last three months. He used to take her from classroom to digital classroom. Sometime, the accused took her to the inside room of the school, removed her clothes and sexually assaulted her.

Enraged on learning about the assault, the victim's parents and other relatives rushed to the school and beat up the driver.

He was later arrested by the police.

Kumar was booked under section 376 a and b of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and section 6 read with 5 m of Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

Following protest by the victim's relatives and others, the police had also arrested the principal for negligence.

Following the incident, the Telangana government had derecognized the private school.

As the incident had triggered outrage, the government had also constituted a committee to recommend measures to ensure safety and security of the students in schools.
Mumbai, April 18 : Tightening the screws on the government, the Opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi on Tuesday demanded a judicial probe into the Maharashtra Bhushan Award post-event tragedy that left 13 dead and enhanced compensation for all the victims.

Nationalist Congress Party's Leader of Opposition Ajit Pawar has shot off a letter to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde seeking a probe into the incident by a retired judge.

Shiv Sena (UBT) National Spokesperson Kishore Tiwari has demanded a compensation of Rs one crore to each victim who succumbed to sunstroke after sitting for hours in the open during the event on Sunday, April 16.

Not mincing words, Pawar said that the deaths were due to a 'disaster' created by the state government in which the innocent followers fell victims of poor planning of the event in which reformer Dattatreya Narayan Dharmadhikari -- revered as Appasaheb -- was conferred the 'Maharashtra Bhushan Award' 2022 by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

"This tragedy should be probed by a retired judge and a case of culpable homicide should be lodged against the culprits. The victims should be given a compensation of Rs 20 lakhs each and the injured in hospitals should get Rs 5,00,000 plus free treatment," Pawar said in his tough single-pager to the CM.

Tiwari said that the state government spent Rs 13 crore from the state exchequer for the grand function, and now 13 poor persons have lost their lives, so each of the victims must be given Rs one crore each.

The Sena (UBT) leader pointed out that at least four local civic bodies were involved in making the preparations but a lot was ignored, specially erecting tents or a marquee for the crowds, adequate drinking water supply, sufficient number of exit points, proper crowd control and other safety measures.

"Around 20 lakh followers attended the event and 13 have perished due to the scorching temperatures of up to 42 C degrees that afternoon. I was numbed by the shrieks of the relatives of the dead victims," said Pawar in the letter.

Now, many have questioned the need for organising such a mega-event in the open and the loss of lives could have been prevented if it was held in a closed venue as in the past, he said.

"This was not a natural calamity but a man-made disaster and the state government is entirely responsible for the deaths... A retired judge should investigate all aspects of the event planning, the fatalities, pin the responsibility and book them for culpable homicide," Pawar said.

On Monday, several MVA leaders, including Sanjay Raut, Dr. Raghunath Kuchik, Clyde Crasto, Atul Londhe had given strong reactions and demanded appropriate action by the government.Late evening, Appasaheb Dharmadhikari had issued a statement expressing his deep anguish over the tragedy and called upon political parties not to politicise the incident.
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Bhubaneswar, April 18 : Odisha police detained state BJP president Manmohan Samal, Union Minister Bishweswar Tudu and several other leaders, including MPs and MLAs, when they were en route to violence-hit Sambalpur town on Tuesday.

The incident took place when a delegation of senior leaders of Odisha BJP led by state president Samal were moving from Jharsuguda to take stock of the situation in Sambalpur town, which has witnessed several violent incidents between two communities last week.

Tapan Mohanty, additional SP, Sambalpur said, "We have detained them as they are not obeying the 144 of CrPC." According to police, the BJP leaders were detained at Thelkoloi police station before entering into the Sambalpur town. The other leaders who have been detained include MPs Suresh Pujari, Jual Oram & Basant Panda, MLAs Nauri Naik, Kusumu Tete & Shankar Oram and former state presidents Samir Mohanty and K.V. Singhdeo.

"It was wrong to detain us mid-way when we had intimated the police a day in advance," Tudu said. The district collector and SP should be suspended immediately, he demanded.

The BJP lawmakers said they will raise the issue in Parliament and Odisha Assembly in upcoming sessions.

"I will examine the legality and power of district administration on this detention. If it amounts to breach of privilege of an MP, I will take steps to bring breach of privilege against the district administration," said Bargarh MP Suresh Pujari.

Pujari said the district administration on Monday agreed to allow the visit of the BJP delegation to Sambalpur. But, unfortunately, today, they denied permission. Under whose direction, the police took this 'U' turn, he wondered.

Terming the detention "unconstitutional", MLA Nauri Naik said the party will strongly protest the police move at a proper forum.

Meanwhile, the Sambalpur district administration has further relaxed the curfew in the town.

As per the latest order issued by Sambalpur Sadar sub-collector Pravash Chandra Dandasena, the curfew has been relaxed from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3.30 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Similarly, internet services will remain suspended in the district till 10 a.m. of April 19, sources said.

Notably, ahead of the Hanuman Jayanti (April 14), a motorcycle procession was organised by Hanuman Jayanti Samanwaya Samiti members, Bajarang Dal workers etc. on April 12 evening. During the rally, there were clashes between two communities in Sambalpur town leaving several people and police injured.

Violence incidents again occurred in the town on April 14 when Hanuman Jayanti procession was going on in the western Odisha town. Few shops were torched and ransacked on April 14 night.
New Delhi, April 18 : Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, also known as Prachanda, is likely to visit India on April 28, according to reports citing sources.

Quoting the sources in Nepal's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the reports said that the date of visit was proposed to Kathmandu by New Delhi.

Prachanda is likely to be in India on a three-day visit, the sources added.

An announcement regarding the visit will be made officially by the two nations in a week's time, the reports said .

Dahal had earlier visited India after attending the closing ceremony of the Beijing Olympics in 2008, during his first tenure as Prime Minister.

In 2016 again, he had visited New Delhi while his second tenure as the premier.
Bengaluru, April 18 : Karnataka Congress chief D.K. Shivakumar said on Tuesday that with former Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar and ex-Deputy CM Lakshman Savadi joining, the party would win 150 seats in the upcoming Assembly elections.

Speaking to reporters Shivakumar stated that with this development the voters of Veerashaiva and Lingayat community will go with the Congress. "Our survey projected 141 seats. Now, with the joining of Shettar and Savadi we will reach 150," he said.

"After the arrival of these two leaders, the vote share of Congress in Lingayat community has increased by two to three per cent. I am giving an open invitation to all BJP leaders who agree to the ideology of Congress party to join. Let us join hands and together save Karnataka. Let us bring change," he said.

"Our candidates are being raided and threatened. We are not scared of the ED and I-T. We are going to teach them a lesson in this election. Not only candidates of Congress party are targeted, the industrialists who are in touch with us also are raided. They are scaring those who are in touch over phone as well," Shivakumar claimed.

"It is being told not to support the Congress party. People are scared to receive our calls. But, no one is touching the BJP leaders as if they are upright and honest to the core. We know what is happening and we will face it," he maintained.
Wellington, April 18 : New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins will undertake a small number of international engagements this year, focused on advancing the country's trade and economic interests, the government announced on Tuesday.

He will travel with a trade delegation to Australia this weekend to mark 40 years of Closer Economic Relations, Xinhua news agency reported.

The Prime Minister will also travel to Britain to attend the Coronation of King Charles III in May.

He will be joined by a delegation of prominent New Zealanders and community representatives who will represent the country at the Coronation.

Hipkins said his focus is still on the cost of living and cyclone recovery challenges New Zealand is facing.

"When overseas I will look to put trade front and centre in order to support our economic recovery," he said.
New Delhi, April 18 : A Delhi court on Tuesday took cognizance of a supplementary charge sheet filed against three Tihar Jail officials in connection with the Rs 200 crore money laundering case involving alleged conman Sukesh Chandrshekha.

The accused persons -- Sunder Bora, Mahender Prasad Sundriyal and Dharam Singh Meena -- are in judicial custody after they were arrested in February.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) filed the supplementary charge sheet post conducting an investigation against them.

Additional Sessions Judge of the Patiala House Courts Shailendra Malik listed the matter for the next hearing on April 29.

The court was told by the ED that the accused persons have been supplied with a copy of the charge sheet and other documents.

On informing that the investigation is going on, the court asked the probe agency to brief it on the progress of it and when it was likely to be completed as it has been going on for the last four years.

The court said: "Accused are in jail and what is the status of the investigation regarding those accused? They are saying the trial is being delayed." The agency has alleged that the arrested officials are involved in money laundering.

Sukesh Chandrasekar is the main accused in this case while actresses Jacqueline Fernandez and Nora Fatehi are also accused.

There are other accused persons in the case well.

Chandrashekhar had allegedly defrauded the spouses of former promoters of Ranbaxy, Shivinder Singh and Malvinder Singh of Rs 200 crore.

He had cheated their wives Aditi Singh and Japna Singh worth several crores by posing as an officer from the Union Law Ministry and ensuring he would secure bail for their husbands.

Both Chandrasekhar and his actor wife Leena Maria Paul were arrested by the Delhi Police in September last year for their alleged role in the case.
New Delhi, April 18 : A Delhi court on Tuesday sent gangster Lawrence Bishnoi to seven-day custody of the National Investigation Agency (NIA).

Listed before the Patiala House Courts, the judge asked the agency to produce evidences on the expiry of the custody.

On Monday, the court of principal district and sessions judge Dharmesh Sharma had directed the authorities to produce Bishnoi on Tuesday after it was informed that Punjab Police (other party of the case) and other agencies are on the way to Delhi and they won't be able to reach here within court hours.

The NIA had produced Bishnoi before the court after bringing him to Delhi from Punjab on Monday for questioning in connection with a case registered last year.

Bishnoi is currently lodged in Bathinda Central Jail.

The court on April 11 issued a production warrant to produce Bishnoi in a case registered by the NIA under section related to waging war against the state, conspiracy to wage war against the state, various sections of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA).

The above case is pending before the NIA court. The charge sheet has already been filed. He has also been named in other criminal cases.
Kochi, April 18 : Christians of the state are much aware that the new-found bonhomie with the BJP will not stand the test of time as the latter's friendly attitude is nothing but a "pretension", the Congress said here on Tuesday.

Starting from Easter day early this month, there was a steady stream of top state and national BJP leaders arriving at Churches, Church headquarters in Kerala and also homes of faithful.

Leader of Opposition V.D.Satheesan said the present love shown towards the Christians in Kerala is not genuine.

"They know that the BJP is nothing but one in sheep's clothing, but inwardly are ravening wolves. The attack against Christian's in the country is on the rise. All saw the protests taken out by the Christian's in Mumbai and Delhi recently, against the increasing attacks. There was a petition in the apex court recently which said 598 churches and Christian places of worships was attacked. We also heard what a BJP State Minister from Karnataka said that if a Christian comes to your house he should be beaten up," said Satheesan.

"The Kerala Christian's are baffled that when their people are attacked in rest of the country, a sudden show of love and affection in Kerala has got other overtures and they will never be able to take a positive stand towards the BJP. Incidentally, recently, about 94 bureaucrats wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to end the attack on Christians in the country," said Satheesan and added Christian's here will not fall into the trap set by the BJP.

Christians in Kerala account for around 19 per cent of the 3.30 crore population.
Kochi, April 18 : The Kochi unit of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Tuesday took over the probe into the April 2 Kerala train arson case.

Soon after the Union Home Ministry issued a notification earlier in the day, the probe agency registered an FIR, here at the NIA court.

As this was on, the accused (27-year-old Delhi resident Shahrukh Saifi), whose police custody ended, was produced before a court at Kozhikode.

With the NIA taking over, the Kerala Police- Special Investigation Team did not seek an extended custody and hence Saifi was sent to judicial custody.

In the coming days, the Kochi unit will seek Saifi's custody to unravel the case and to learn his motive, something which the Kerala SIT failed to do, despite having him in custody for 11 days.

On April 2, Saifi set ablaze a few passengers by dousing them with petrol in the moving train from Kozhikode.

He later travelled on the same train to Kannur and after a few hours boarded another train and got down at Ratnagiri in Maharashtra.

In the incident, three passengers, who were witness to the incident, out of fear jumped out of the moving train, only to die, while nine others suffered burn injuries.

It was only with the intervention of central agencies who alerted the ATS division of Maharashtra Police that Saifi was located at Ratnagiri and arrested.

Saifi was handed over to the Kerala Police, and was soon taken to Kozhikode and until Tuesday he was under the custody of the Kerala SIT.

On Monday, it became clear that the NIA will be taking over the case when the SIT head ADGP M.R. Ajithkumar told the media that Saifi was a highly radicalised person and the probe team has been able to find out all what he did right from the time he boarded the train till his arrest at Ratnagiri.

It became even more clear when state BJP president K.Surendran slammed the Kerala government for its soft attitude towards terror related events and the outcome of it was the train fire case.

"It's been more than two weeks since this incident occurred and no action has come against those who helped the accused after reaching Kerala. None appears to have any clue on who prepared his food as a tiffin box was found on the track near Elathur (the place where the fire took place). There are a lot of answers that have to come out. The Kerala government is more interested in vote bank politics and hence these things happen here," said Surendran.
Ranchi, April 18 : The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned Jharkhand IAS officer Chhavi Ranjan for questioning in connection with the Ranchi land scam case, an official said on Tuesday.

Ranjan, who is presently the Director in the Social Welfare Department, has been summoned to the Ranchi zonal office of the agency on April 21.

Ranjan was the Deputy Commissioner of Ranchi when the land deals were allegedly processed. During his tenure, apart from about 1.5 acres of army land, there was a scam of sale and purchase of many other plots using fake documents.

In the same case, Kolkata's Additional Registrar of Assurance, Trideep Mishra, has also been summoned by the ED. Mishra has been called for questioning at the ED office in Ranchi on May 2.

On April 13, the agency had raided 21 locations across three states -- Jharkhand, Bihar and West Bengal -- including the premises of Ranjan and 18 others.

During the raids, the ED had also questioned Ranjan and scanned his cellphone. It was found that he had prepared for the possible action by the ED and had the answers ready to the questions to be asked in the case.

During the raids, the agency recovered hundreds of land deeds, papers, fake documents, fake seals and registry documents.

Seven persons have been arrested in this case so far, who are being interrogated by the ED. These include businessmen Pradeep Bagchi, Bhanu Pratap, Afsar Ali, Imtiaz Khan, Talha Khan, Fayaz Khan and Mohammad Saddam.
Kolkata, April 18 : A single-judge bench of the Calcutta High Court on Tuesday asked the CBI to direct its ongoing probe in the multi-crore teachers' recruitment scam in West Bengal against another Trinamool Congress legislator Tapas Saha from Tehatta Assembly constituency.

Allegations about Saha's involvement in the recruitment scam were made quite some time back and the state police was also conducting a probe in the matter.

However, on Tuesday, after Calcutta High Court's single-judge bench of Justice Rajasekhar Mantha directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to take over the investigation with immediate effect.

Justice Mantha also directed the state police to handover all documents concerned including the case-diary to the central agency sleuths at the earliest.

The principal allegation against Saha was that he collected a cash of Rs 16 crore for illegally arranging jobs in state-run schools to ineligible candidates.

A Public Interest Litigation in the matter was filed at the Calcutta High Court in 2018 by BJP leader and counsel of the same court Tarunjyoti Tiwari. On that PIL, the single-judge bench ordered CBI to initiate a probe against Tapas Saha.

Giving his reactions to the media persons after the order, Tiwari said that there are allegations of Saha's involvement in recruitments in various departments besides that of teaching and non-teaching staff.

"Although the state police are investigating such charges, they never took him to custody and questioned him. The state police could not give any satisfactory answer on why the chargesheet has not been placed even after a year since the investigation started. So, the bench ordered the CBI to initiate a probe against Saha," Tiwari added.
Hubballi : , April 18 (IANS) Former Karnataka Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar, who quit the ruling BJP to join the Congress, on Tuesday lashed out at the BJP's national General Secretary B.L. Santhosh, squarely holding him responsible for his exit.

Addressing reporters here, Shettar said that that the BJP is losing leaders one after the other and is not sure whether it wants to come to power.

"B.L. Santhosh was made in-charge of elections in other states... nowhere could the BJP win. In spite of it, he had been made in-charge of Karnataka. This is only being done to rout the party in the state," he alleged.

"In the BJP, they say that individual is not important. But, one individual has become important and he had kept everything under his control. Santhosh will ruthlessly trample those who are not in his league. His protege Mahesh Tenginakayi has got the ticket for my constituency from the BJP. He could have been made a Rajya Sabha member... to get him ticket, I was humiliated and thrown out by Santhosh," Shettar alleged.

He questioned "why it was necessary to humiliate him and unleash drama for one single individual whom Santhosh considers as his close associate". It was a pre-planned moved of Santhosh, he said.

"There is a conspiracy to finish off BJP in the state. Even (veteran leader B.S.) Yediyurappa is in a helpless state. There is suffocation in all district offices. State President Nalin Kumar Kateel is a close associate of Santhosh. Kateel will act as per his directions," Shettar claimed.

The statements of Shettar has assumed importance in the wake of Congress making an attempt to project that Lingayat leadership in BJP is being finished off.

Meanwhile, Tenginakayi said that he got the ticket for being loyal worker of the BJP and not because he is close to Santhosh.

He claimed he was Shettar's protege in the last three decades in the BJP and he saw Shettar as his guru.
Lucknow, April 18 : Days after gangster Atiq Ahmed and his brother Ashraf were gunned down by three youth while in police custody in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said on Tuesday that no mafia or criminal can threaten industrialists in the state anymore.

The Chief Minister said: "Before 2017, the state was infamous for riots. More than 700 riots rocked the state between 2012 and 2017. But not a single riot broke out after 2017. Earlier, just the names of many districts scared people. Now there is no need to be scared.

"Few years back, there was a crisis for the identity of the state... Today the state is becoming a crisis for criminals. No criminal can threaten any businessman in the state any more." Adityanath was addressing a programme to mark the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for setting up textile parks in Lucknow and Hardoi districts. The textile parks are being set up under the PM Mega Integrated Textile Region and Apparel (PM MITRA) scheme.
New Delhi, April 18 : The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Tuesday arrested a Superintendent of Customs in Kolkata for allegedly demanding and accepting a bribe of Rs 50,000 from a man through a Customs House Agent (CHA) for releasing a consignment of the complainant's firm, which was imported from China.

A senior CBI officer said that a case was registered against Pawan Kumar, Superintendent of Customs, Kolkata Port, for demanding illegal gratification of Rs 3,00,000 from the victim.

Kumar later reduced the bribe amount to Rs 1,00,000 and finally agreed to accept Rs 50,000 for releasing the consignment after meeting the victim.

The penalty of the said consignment had been accruing since January, and it increased to Rs 3,00,000.

The CBI laid a trap and caught the accused red-handed while accepting Rs 50,000 as bribe from the complainant.

Searches were conducted at two premises of the accused in West Bengal and Bihar.
New Delhi, April 18 : Amid intensified fighting between Sudan's army and paramilitary forces, the Indian embassy in Khartoum on Tuesday advised all citizens not to venture out and ration their supplies.

In an advisory to Indians there, the embassy said "We have come across many instances of looting. All Indian nationals are advised please not to venture out. Please ration your supplies. The situation may continue for a few more days. Please try to take help from your neighbours. Please stay at home and remain safe." This is the third advisory issued by the Indian embassy since April 15 after violence escalated in the African nation.

On April 15, the Indian embassy had urged all citizens to stay indoors, take utmost precautions and stop venturing out with immediate effect.

"Indians planning to travel to Sudan should postpone their travel," the embassy had said further.

On April 16, the Indian embassy in Khartoum had issued a second advisory to its citizens living there, saying, "Based on the latest inputs, the fighting has not subsided on day two. We sincerely request all fellow Indians to continue stay where they are and not venture outside. Please stay calm and peaceful. Stay away from open spaces like balconies or terrace. Keep essentials - medicine, water, money, passport, OCI card, food ready with you to ensure easy mobility, when feasible." On April 16, an Indian national working in Sudan had died of a bullet injury, after the outbreak of violence in that country.

As many as 31 Indian nationals belonging to Karnataka are currently stuck in Sudan.

On April 15, Sudan woke up to explosions and gunfire after the culmination of a weeks-long power struggle between two generals who seized power in the country following a military coup in 2021.

The two generals - Abdel Fattah al-Burhan who is the chief of Sudan's army and Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, commander of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) - are former allies.

The two joined forces and worked together to topple former Sudan President Omar al-Bashir in 2019 and were instrumental in the 2021 military coup.

However, negotiations to integrate RSF into Sudan's military as part of plans to restore civilian rule in the country turned hostile when questions arose on who would command whom in the new regime.
Moscow, April 18 : Russian President Vladimir Putin has made an unannounced visit to two command posts in the "newly incorporated territories" from Ukraine, where he reviewed the progress of military operation against Ukrainian forces, the Kremlin said on Tuesday.

Putin travelled to the command centre of the 'Dnieper' battlegroup located "in the Kherson area" and received reports from the group's commander, Colonel General Oleg Makarevich, and Colonel General Mikhail Teplinsky, the commander of Russia's airborne troops, a Kremlin statement said, RT reported.

The President also made a trip to the Lugansk People's Republic, where he visited the 'Vostok' (East) command centre of the National Guard, and discussed the situation in the area with top military officials, including Colonel General Aleksandr Lapin.

Putin's surprise visit comes as Kiev prepares to launch a counteroffensive in which Western-supplied heavy tanks and new armored vehicles are expected to be involved. Ukrainian Prime Minister Denis Shmigal said on Monday that Kiev will start the operation "in the nearest future".

The recent months of the Ukraine conflict have been marked by fierce fighting for the Donbass mining city of Artyomovsk, known to Ukrainians as Bakhmut.
Ahmedabad, April 18 : The Crime Branch of the Ahmedabad Police on Tuesday lodged yet another case - sixth one - against conman Kiran Patel, for alleged fraud of Rs 80 lakh.

The complaint was filed by Upendrasinh Dipsinh Chavda, a resident of South Bopal in Gujarat's Ahmedabad and originally from Jaliya village in Dhandhuka taluka.

Chavda alleged that Kiran had taken Rs 80 lakh from him for 1867 square meters of land in Narol but did not deliver the land. Kiran had identified himself as an official of the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) and provided a visiting card on WhatsApp as proof.

According to the complaint, Chavda met Kiran at Sabarmati central jail in 2016 while visiting his friend Salimbhai Khoja. Kiran later introduced himself as a tobacco trader and had phone conversations with Chavda.

In March 2017, Kiran sought a loan from Chavda, which he refused. Kiran then met Chavda in Bopal and claimed to have inherited land in Narol, which he wanted to sell. Chavda paid Rs 25 lakh in instalments and signed an agreement at Narol sub-registrar office. They fixed a deal for Rs 80 lakh for the purchase of 1867 square meters of land out of a total of 4325 square meters of non-agriculture land at 225/B survey of Narol owned by Kiran Patel.

After the agreement, the condition was made that document would be made after six months post-title clearance. Later rest of the amount which was Rs 55 lakh was paid to Kiran Patel in cash. However, Kiran didn't clear the title in six months which was a breach of the condition.

When contacted over a phone call, he didn't reply. Chavda then sent a notice through his lawyer but there was no reply. Later whenever Chavda would contact Kiran, the latter would make different excuses. Kiran eventually put Chavda's phone number in the block list. Chavda then started visiting Kiran's rented residence in Ghodasar area but Kiran was not available and his wife was not giving proper reply.

Chavda has in his complaint stated that as he had agreement with him, he didn't file a complaint against Kiran.

In February 2023, Kiran called Chavda and claimed to be working in the PMO, with important responsibilities and tasks. Kiran sent videos and a visiting card, showing he was serving as additional director (Strategy & Campaigns) PMO, New Delhi.

Kiran Patel, who was arrested by J&K Police in March for allegedly posing as an official from the PM's Office, is facing similar cheating cases in the city, and the Crime Branch is investigating the matter. The complaint filed by Chavda is the sixth instance of Kiran's fraudulent activities.
Hyderabad, April 18 : The Telangana High Court on Tuesday directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) not to arrest Kadapa MP Y.S. Avinash Reddy in Y.S. Vivekananda Reddy murder case till April 25.

In its interim order on anticipatory bail petition of the MP, the court directed him to appear before the CBI daily till April 25.

The court also suggested to the CBI to audio and video record questioning of Avinash Reddy. The final order on the anticipatory bail plea will be delivered on April 25.

The CBI informed the court that it will question Avinash Reddy in the presence of his father Y.S. Bhaskar Reddy and another accused Uday Kumar Reddy.

Earlier, Avinash Reddy's counsel T. Niranjan Reddy told the court that except the statement of Dastagiri, an accused turned approver in the case, the CBI had no evidence against Avinash.

He contended that Google Takeout data can't be relied on during the investigation.

The MP's counsel also told the court that there is a contradiction between Dastagiri's statement about another accused Sunil Yadav's movements and Google Takeout data. He argued that family problems, financial disputes or extramarital relations could be the reason for the murder.

On the CBI suspecting Avinash's role in disappearance of evidence, the MP's counsel submitted that since Avinash is a relative of the victim, he went to the house and helped in cleaning the room.

On the central agency's argument that Avinash Reddy spread the word that Vivekananda Reddy died of cardiac arrest, his lawyer clarified that he only repeated what he had heard from others at the house.

The CBI opposed the anticipatory bail on the ground that it has to collect more information from him and that he is an influential person. It also told the court that during his appearance before it four times, he did not cooperate.

The CBI counsel also argued that Avinash Reddy had knowledge of murder conspiracy and it gathered scientific and technical evidence. He also clarified that there is no evidence of financial disputes or extramarital relations.

The CBI counsel also informed that the weapons used in the murder had not yet been recovered. After the murder, the accused had gone to Avinash Reddy's house with weapons.

Counsel of Vivekananda Reddy's daughter Suneetha Reddy, who had impleaded in the case, argued that Avinash Reddy was approaching courts whenever the CBI was issuing notices to him. Accused and witnesses have already told the CBI about the role of Avinash Reddy.

The MP fears arrest in the case as his father Y.S. Bhaskar Reddy was arrested in the case on Sunday. In its petition seeking custody of Bhaskar Reddy, the CBI had named Avinash Reddy as co-accused.

Bhaskar Reddy, who was arrested in Pulivendula on Sunday, was brought to Hyderabad and produced before a magistrate, who remanded him to judicial custody for 14 days.

Meanwhile, the CBI court in Hyderabad on Tuesday sent Bhaskar Reddy and another accused Uday Kumar Reddy to CBI custody for six days. The accused are currently lodged in Chanchalguda Jail in Hyderabad.

The CBI has directed Avinash Reddy to appear before it on Wednesday at 10.30 a.m. The agency has conveyed to the court that it will question him in the presence of Bhaskar Reddy and Uday Kumar Reddy.

Avinash Reddy, cousin of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, has been questioned by the CBI four times during the last couple of months.

Vivekananda Reddy, brother of former chief minister Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy and uncle of Jagan Mohan Reddy, was found murdered at his residence in Pulivendula of Kadapa district on the night of March 15, 2019, a few days before the elections.

The 68-year-old former state minister and former MP was alone at his house when unidentified persons barged in and killed him.

The CBI took over the investigation into the case in 2020 on the direction of Andhra Pradesh High Court while hearing a petition of Vivekananda Reddy's daughter Suneetha Reddy, who raised suspicion about some relatives.

The Supreme Court transferred the case to Hyderabad in November last year while observing that doubts raised by Suneetha Reddy about getting a fair trial and investigation in Andhra Pradesh were reasonable.
Gurugram, April 18 : An inter-state criminal, who was involved in three dozen cases including murder, robbery, dacoity, attempt to murder and extortion, was held from Pachgaon Chowk on the Delhi-Jaipur Expressway, police said on Tuesday.

A Swift Dzire car robbed from a taxi driver has been recovered from the accused, police said.

He was earlier arrested in a murder case in Gurugram and recently came out on bail. The accused again became active in carrying out a serious crime, price said.

Criminal cases have also been registered against the accused in Gurugram, Dharuhera (Rewari) and Tijara (Rajasthan).

The arrested accused has been identified as 30-year-old Monu.

According to the police, they received a complaint from a taxi driver on April 15 that the three unknown accused robbed his car near the Kundli-Manesar-Palwal (KMP) Expressway.

"During questioning, the accused confessed his involvement in the crime and disclosed that he along with his accomplice Amit alias Mota and Ajit had robbed the car. Amit and Ajit have also been arrested. Monu was a dreaded criminal. Three dozen cases of serious nature have also been registered against him," Lalit Kumar, In-Charge Crime Branch Manesar, told IANS.
Kolkata, April 18 : The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probing the multi-crore teachers' recruitment scam in West Bengal is looking into 12 bank accounts held by arrested Trinamool Congress MLA Jiban Krishna Saha and his wife Togori Saha.

Sources said that of the 12 accounts held in different public sector and private banks, eight are in Murshidabad district while the remaining four are in Birbhum district.

It is learnt that the 12 bank accounts have combined deposits of slightly over Rs 12 crore. Saha, who is currently in CBI custody, is being questioned by the CBI about the sources of such huge deposits.

Out of the 12 accounts, four are in the name of the arrested MLA, three in the name of his wife and the remaining five are held jointly, sources added.

Earlier, the CBI had tracked multiple high-value properties owned by Saha and his family members. What has surprised the CBI is that majority of these high-value properties owned by Saha and his family members are located in Birbhum district, whereas Saha is the Trinamool legislator from Burwan Assembly constituency in his home district Murshidabad.

The development has given rise to the question of Saha's possible links to the cattle smuggling scam, considering that Birbhum was the epicentre of the cattle scam, in which the ruling party's Birbhum district President Anubrata Mondal is already under judicial custody.

Sources said that being a bordering district, Murshidabad has a deep-routed link with the cattle smuggling scam as cows smuggled in from the different cattle trading hubs in Birbhum were sent to Bangladesh via Murshidabad border.

The CBI has also learnt that Saha and Mondal shared an extremely cordial relationship.

Meanwhile, following the protocol, the CBI on Tuesday informed the office of Assembly Speaker Biman Banerjee about Saha's arrest since he is a sitting member of the House.
Kathmandu, April 18: Indian private and government owned companies have been queueing up ahead of Nepals Power Summit that has unrolled in Kathmandu today.

The organiser--Independent Power Producers Association Nepal (IPPAN), an umbrella organisation of private sector power developers-said that there has been substantial representation of both government-owned and the private sector companies of India involved in the power sector.

"The Indian companies are in the largest number to participate in the event whose country partner is the Embassy of India, Kathmandu," says Ashish Garg, vice-chairperson of IPPAN. "Companies like SJVN Limited, NHPC Limited, Tata Power among others are participating in the power summit," he observed in a conversation with India Narrative.

Large scale participation of the Indian companies in one of the largest events in the power sector is taking place at a time when Nepal and India are moving towards increased partnership in the energy sector.

Indian companies, particularly the state-owned companies, are increasingly willing to develop the large scale hydropower projects in Nepal since the two countries agreed to jointly develop such projects in the last one year.

The two neighbours decided to form a joint technical team to develop large hydropower projects in Nepal during the secretary-level ninth Joint Steering Committee meeting held in Kathmandu in February 2022.

Subsequently, during the India visit of the then Nepali Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba in early April last year, they unveiled a Joint Vision Statement on Power Sector Cooperation.

It seeks to strengthen mutually beneficial bilateral cooperation in the energy sector through joint development of power projects in Nepal.

Development of cross-border transmission infrastructure, bi-directional power trade with appropriate access to electricity markets in both countries, coordinated operation of the national grids and institutional cooperation in sharing latest operational information, technology and know-how are other areas of cooperation included in the joint vision statement.

The two countries also agreed to expand such cooperation to include partner countries under the BBIN (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India and Nepal) framework, subject to mutually agreed terms and conditions, raising hope that Nepal could also export power to Bangladesh.

"It turned out to be a milestone for the growing interest of Indian companies' to develop big hydropower projects in Nepal," said Garg. "Rapid implementation of the 900MW Arun 3 Hydropower Project in eastern Nepal by SJVN limited is also encouraging other state-owned Indian companies to develop power projects in the country." He however said that the Indian private sector power producers are facing some teething problems. For instance, GMR Energy is struggling to conclude financial closure to develop the 900MW Upper Karnali Hydropower Project in western Nepal.

But India's state owned energy companies moved aggressively into Nepal's hydropower project development after the release of the joint vision statement.

In early May last year, the NHPC Limited, an Indian government owned entity, under the Ministry of Power, submitted a proposal to develop the 750MW West Seti Hydropower Project along with 450MW Seti River-6 project.

In August last year, Investment Board Nepal, the government agency responsible for dealing with large scale investment proposals, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the NHPC authorising the Indian company to study and develop these two projects as a package.

Four years after China's Three Gorges Corporation pulled out from the West Seti Project in 2018, an Indian company has moved ahead to develop this project.

Likewise, a board meeting of the IBN last week asked the NHPC to prepare a detailed project report of these two projects.

Likewise, in May last year, Nepal and India signed a memorandum of understanding to develop the 695MW Arun-4 hydropower project, which lies downstream of under construction- Arun-3 project.

As per the agreement on Arun-4 development, it will be jointly developed by Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA), state-owned power utility body of Nepal and SJVN Limited.

The SJVN and the NEA will have 51 percent and 49 percent stakes, respectively. Nepal will receive 21.9 percent, or 152 megawatts, of electricity for free, as per the agreement.

"Currently, the Indian company is updating the existing studies regarding this project," Prabal Adhikari, power trade director of the NEA, told the India Narrative.

The SJVN has also been licensed to develop 679MW Lower Arun on the same river. The SJVN will now be involved in developing a combined 2274.2MW of electricity in Nepal, close to the entire generation capacity of the country currently. Nepal's entire installed capacity of operating power projects has reached 2,650MW as of early April, according to the NEA.

On the other hand, Nepal is also preparing to award 480 MW Phukot Karnali Hydropower Project to be built in western Kalikot district to the Indian company-NHPC Limited.

Nepal's state-owned Vidyut Utpadan Company Limited (VUCL) has decided to join hands with the NHPC to develop the project jointly. "We have sent a draft of the MoU to the cabinet through the energy ministry," Surya Prasad Rijal, managing director of VUCL told the India Narrative.

The MoU could be signed during the planned visit of Nepali Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' to India whose date has not been finalised yet, officials of Nepal's energy ministry, said.

Following the MoU, a joint venture company will be registered in Nepal and move to take approval for the investment proposal from the IBN. Earlier, Nepal had enlisted this project as a potential project that could be developed under China's Belt and Road Initiative, of which Nepal is a signatory.

According to Rijal, the NHPC had also shown interest to develop 1,902MW Mugu Karnali Storage Hydro Electric Project in western Karnali river in 2021.

"The NHPC had submitted a letter to Nepal's energy ministry showing interest to develop this project but no further talks regarding this project have moved ahead," he said. "Currently, its feasibility study is undergoing."The Nepali government had awarded the survey licence to the VUCL in July 2018.

Coinciding with Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Nepal in October 2019, Nepal's Hydroelectricity Investment and Development Company Limited (HIDCL) and Power Construction Corporation of China Limited entered into an MoU for joint development 756 MW Tamor Storage Hydroelectric Project in eastern Nepal by forming a Special Purpose Vehicle Company.

As hardly any progress was achieved in the last four years on steps designed to be taken to implement the project, the HIDCL, about a month ago, sent a letter to the IBN expressing its willingness to terminate the deal with the Chinese company.

"As we cannot develop this project alone, we are open to the idea of joining hands with the Indian companies," said Arjun Kumar Gautam, chief executive officer of HIDCL.

As the Indian companies increasingly seek to develop large hydropower projects in Nepal, questions have also been asked from certain quarters whether relying on a single country for the market would increase Nepal's vulnerabilities.

But Rajendra Kishore Chhetri, Nepal's former chief secretary, who has expertise in the power sector, said that inviting Indian companies to develop the hydropower projects in Nepal was a natural choice.

"For the developers of other countries, the Indian market has not been guaranteed. So, it is natural to invite Indian companies to develop hydropower projects in Nepal. India is also hungry for green energy." India is making a big push towards renewable energy as it aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2070. Besides hydropower, India has been prioritising the development of solar and wind energy. "Nepal's hydropower will contribute to balance the solar and wind energy in India," said Adhikari of the NEA.

Since July 2021, Nepal has been producing surplus power in the wet (summer) season. India has allowed to sell 452.6MW of electricity to India's power exchange market. Nepal needs to sell more to avoid spilling of energy in the next summer.

According to the NEA, Nepal's projected power generation capacity is expected to reach 2,853MW by the end of the current fiscal year ending in mid-July this year. By the end of this fiscal, peak domestic demand is expected to reach 2,853MW. That's why, there is a compulsion for Nepal to sell its surplus power to India in the wet season while India is seeking more green energy. "It is a win-win situation for both countries," said Chhetri, the former chief secretary of Nepal. In the last wet season (June-November 2022) , Nepal exported electricity worth over NPR 11 billion to India, as power became one of the country's largest export products.

"Power is likely to be the most important export product in the next several years as it is difficult to boost exports of other products like electricity," said Adhikari, adding that Indian companies investing in Nepal could play a vital role for this purpose.

Stakeholders in Nepal's power sector say that the Indian companies have both capacity and experience of developing large hydropower projects. "Their involvement in hydropower development in Nepal will also help to broaden market access to Nepal's electricity not only in India but also in Bangladesh which itself is seeking ways to import Nepal's electricity," said Chhetri.

During the 10th Joint Steering Committee meeting held in India in February this year, New Delhi was positive to grant permission for Nepal to export 50 MW of electricity to Bangladesh through existing Indian transmission infrastructure. Nepali officials said that the southern neighbour agreed to grant its approval once Nepal submits the proposal along with the project whose power will be sold to Bangladesh.

Nepali officials say sale of electricity to China is however remote because of no cross-border connectivity between the two countries.

"As Nepal has to export its surplus power to India predominantly, it makes sense to invite Indian companies to develop power projects in Nepal," said Garg, the vice-president of IPPAN.

"Indian investment in Nepal's hydropower sector is also important from the perspective of attracting foreign direct investment in the country as well as Indian companies enjoy one advantage over companies from other countries because the Indian investors should not be worried about foreign exchange risks as Nepali currency has fixed exchange rate regime with the Indian currency." (The content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com) --indianarrative
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. Slovnaft refinery, owned by Hungarian MOL Group, which has recently made the first-ever shipment of oil from Azerbaijans Azeri-Chirag-Gunashli block of fields to its refinery in Slovakia, will soon start proceeding Azeri Light oil, Slovnaft told Trend.

"Crude oil Azeri light we plan to proceed in refinery at the beginning of May," said Slovnaft.

The representative of the refinery said the last shipment was based on a spot transfer, but the option is there to potentially make it regular.

"We now have the flexibility to decide whether to sell our share of the crude oil produced from the ACG field or transport it to our refineries, which improves the security of supply in Slovakia as well as our core region."

MOL Group holds 9.57 percent share in Azeri-Chirag-Gunashli block.

Total ACG production for the full year of 2022 was on average about 415,400 barrels per day (b/d) (about 152 million barrels or 20 million tons in total) from the Chirag (25,200 b/d), Central Azeri (104,100 b/d), West Azeri (106,400 b/d), East Azeri (64,000 b/d), Deepwater Gunashli (76,300 b/d) and West Chirag (39,400 b/d) platforms.

The total volume of oil production in Azerbaijan in 2022 amounted to 32.6 million tons. During the reporting period, the country exported 26.3 million tons of oil.

---

Follow the author on Twitter: @Lyaman_Zeyn
Panaji, April 18 : Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Tuesday lauded the tele-consultation services of Goa.

"Goa is a small state. But in the health sector, good facilities are being provided to the people. The tele-consultation services in Goa are well-connected to cater to the citizens' needs even in the remotest parts of the state," Mandaviya said.

In Goa for the second Health Working Group meeting under G20 India Presidency, the minister along with the invitee countries, delegates, international organisations and development partners visited the Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centre (AB-HWC) in Corlim, North Goa, on Tuesday.

"For around 5,000-6,000 people, there is a health and wellness centre here through which people are provided primary treatment," Mandaviya said.

"Goa has over 200 AB-HWCs, Jan Aushadhi Kendras, and medical colleges for training young medical professionals, among other initiatives," he added.

The minister also distributed food baskets among the TB patients at the centre and reiterated that the government is working relentlessly towards making India TB-free by 2025, five years before the global target of 2030.
Bengaluru, April 18 : Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai on Tuesday, reacting to some BJP leaders' decision to switch to the Congress, said the grand old party is a sinking ship, and "had they stayed with the saffron party, would have reached the shore".

Bommai said this while referring to the exit of former chief minister Jagadish Shettar and ex-deputy chief minister Laxman Savadi.

Both the former BJP leaders would be contesting the May 10 Karnataka Assembly polls on Congress ticket.

Addressing a public meeting in Bagalkot after holding a roadshow in support of the BJP candidate and cabinet minister Govind Karjol, he said the people's response towards the BJP has been tremendous.

The chief minister said the Congress leaders made promises on the Krishna River issue but did nothing.

"They cheated the people of the northern Karnataka region. Differentiation was done in the payment of compensation to those who lost land. Govind Karjol had to come as Water Resources Minister to pay the compensation to farmers.

"The Cabinet Sub-Committee constituted by him had resolved to pay equal compensation to everyone and something had been followed. The development of Mudhol taluk has been taken up through the implementation of lift irrigation schemes," Bommai said.
Hyderabad, April 18 : The Telangana government has arranged 5 lakh doses of CorBEvax, in spite of the acute shortage of Covid-19 vaccines, a top health official said on Tuesday.

The vaccine doses have been arranged in view of the rise in Covid-19 cases in many countries around the world as well in some states within the country.

Director of Public Health and Family Welfare Dr G. Srinivasa Rao announced that the vaccine will be made available at all government primary health centres and urban primary health centres from Wednesday (April 19).

CorBEvax can be administered as a precautionary dose to those beneficiaries who have taken Covaxin or Covishield as first and second dose, as it has been approved by the Centre for heterologous administration.

The state government has made all arrangements to ensure uninterrupted availability of Covid vaccines to all the eligible citizens at government Covid vaccine centres like primary health centres and urban primary health centres.

The director of public health appealed to people to use this opportunity and ensure that all the left out and missing doses are taken.

The state government had last month written to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to provide additional Covid booster shots for the state. However, with the Centre asking the states to directly procure Covid vaccines and booster shots from the open market, the Telangana government had decided to procure 15 lakh does from Hyderabad-based Biological E to resume vaccination.

Telangana on Monday reported 41 new Covid cases while 30 people recovered. The recovery rate remained at 99.48 per cent. The state has 269 active Covid cases.
Thiruvananthapuram, April 18 : Kerala BJP President K. Surendran on Tuesday said that after Prime Minister Narendra Modi returns from the state on April 25, a huge number of people cutting across parties and economic status will join his party.

A reason why Surendran is upbeat is the response to the trial run of the Vande Bharat train on Monday when it travelled from here to Kannur and returned. Thousands arrived at the various railway stations where it stopped and pro-Modi slogans were heard.

Modi will flag off the first commercial trip from here on April 25.

"Just wait and see, a good number of people from various political parties and economic status will be joining the BJP after the visit of the PM. And that has already begun at Kottayam when on Tuesday around 80 people from a leading family joined the BJP," said Surendran.

"The stage has come that in Kerala the minority communities have started accepting the BJP. Just like in Kottayam, a good number of people at Pathanamthitta are waiting to join the BJP. In general the BJP's acceptability has increased hugely," he claimed.

Modi is arriving at Kochi the same day to inaugurate a youth meeting in which its new recruit Anil K. Antony, son of country's longest serving Defence Minister A.K.Antony, will be showcased for the first time after joining the BJP.

The BJP does not have a single member in the 140-member Kerala Assembly nor in the 20 Lok Sabha seats.
Kolkata, April 18 : Aprarupa Poddar aka Afrin Ali, the Trinamool Congress Lok Sabha member from Arambagh in Hooghly district, approached the Calcutta High Court on Tuesday seeking to expunge her name from the FIR filed by the CBI in connection with the 2016 Narada sting video case.

The high court's single-judge bench of Justice Rajasekhar Mantha has listed the matter for hearing on April 20.

In the 2016 Narada sting video, conducted by journalist Mathew Samuel, several top Trinamool leaders, including MPs, MLAs and ministers, were seen accepting cash from the 'representative' of a 'corporate entity' against promises of doling out favours. The CBI later took over the investigation, which is yet to be completed.

According to Afrin Ali, many years have passed since the central agency started the investigation in the matter but nothing concrete has surfaced so far. In such a situation, naming her in the FIR is resulting in maligning of her image, Afrin Ali argued in her plea.

The Narada sting video had surfaced just before the 2016 Assembly elections. Although the opposition parties, including the Left Front-Congress alliance and the BJP, used the matter in a major way in their campaign against the ruling Trinamool Congress, the people of the state brought back Mamata Banerjee and her party with a huge mandate.

Soon after the 2021 Assembly polls, the CBI had arrested senior Trinamool leaders Firhad Hakim, late Subrata Mukherjee, Madan Mitra and Sovan Chatterjee in connection with the Narada sting video case, all of whom were seen receiving cash in the purported sting video.
New Delhi, April 18 : External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday expressed displeasure at Congress leader and former Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah, asking him not to politicise the incident of evacuation of 31 tribals from the state, who are stuck in violence-hit Sudan.

Replying to a series of tweets earlier in the day by the Congress leader, who blamed the central government for not doing enough to ensure the safe return of the tribals stuck in the African nation, Jaishankar said that he was "appalled" at his response.

"Simply appalled at your tweet! There are lives at stake; don't do politics. Since the fighting started on April 14th, the Embassy of India in Khartoum has been continuously in touch with most Indian nationals and PIOs in Sudan," the External Affairs Minister tweeted while tagging Siddaramaiah's earlier comments on Twitter.

"Plans regarding them have to take into account a very complicated security scenario. The Embassy is in constant touch with the Ministry in that regard. It is grossly irresponsible of you to politicise their situation. No electoral goal justifies endangering Indians abroad," Jaishankar tweeted further, adding that "Their (tribals') details and locations cannot be made public for security reasons. Their movement is constrained by fierce fighting that is ongoing." Incidentally, the social media slugfest between the two leaders took place at a time when political temperatures in Karnataka are on the rise, with assembly elections scheduled to take place there on May 10.

Congress leader Siddaramaiah had earlier appealed to the Centre, seeking safe return of a group of 31 tribals from the state, who are stranded in violence-hit Sudan.

"It is reported that 31 people from the state belonging to Hakki Pikki tribe are stranded in Sudan which is troubled by civil war," Siddaramaiah had said in a series of tweets.

"I urge Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Ministry, Ministry of External Affairs and Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai to immediately intervene and ensure their safe return," Siddaramaiah said.

"Hakki Pikki in Sudan are left stranded without food since the last few days and the government is yet to initiate action to bring them back. BJP government should open diplomatic discussions and reach out to international agencies to ensure the well-being of Hakki-Pikkis," he had posted.

"It is also unfortunate to know that we have lost one Indian and 60 others in the ongoing civil war in Sudan. My deepest condolences to their families and pray for the peace in the region," Siddaramaiah's tweet read.

The tribals from the state had gone to Sudan for business.
New Delhi, April 18 : Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) chief Swati Maliwal on Tuesday wrote a letter to Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, a day after a Korean vlogger was allegedly harassed in Jodhpur while she was strolling on the streets of the city.

The DCW sought Gehlot's urgent intervention and prompt action in the matter to ensure justice for the girl, who is a foreign national.

"Through this letter, I wish to bring to your kind attention towards a distressing incident of sexual harassment with a Korean vlogger in Jodhpur. As the Chairperson of the DCW, I am deeply disturbed by this heinous crime and seek your urgent intervention in the matter," Maliwal wrote in her letter.

"The Commission has learnt that a Korean vlogger was harassed by a man in a fort in Jodhpur. The girl was walking in the fort when a man allegedly followed her, exposed his private parts, and engaged in lewd behaviour. The girl ran, screamed, and appealed for help. The entire incident was captured on video and has been widely circulated on social media," the letter further stated.

The DCW chief added that this incident is not only a grave violation of the girl's rights but has also brought shame to the country, as it raises serious questions about the safety and security of women, both domestic and foreign nationals, in society.

"I strongly condemn such an act of sexual harassment and urge you to take immediate action against the perpetrator. I request you to ensure that a criminal complaint is filed against the man involved in this heinous act and that he is promptly arrested and brought to justice. I also urge you to take all necessary measures to ensure the safety and security of the survivor," she said in her letter.

"I look forward to prompt action in the matter by your office in ensuring justice for the girl and taking effective measures to prevent such incidents in the future," the letter further stated.

Meanwhile, Rajasthan Police said that after taking cognizance of the incident, they have detained the accused.
Mumbai, April 18 : The Bharatiya Janata Party's Maharashtra unit on Tuesday categorically said that they have not received any proposal, "either verbal or written" from NCP leader Ajit Pawar on his reported intentions to join the ruling alliance party or extending outside support.

"There is no such proposal, either oral or in writing from anyone... When this does not concern us or him (Ajit Pawar), why should there be such speculative reports," BJP state chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule said.

However, he said that anybody who is ready to accept the BJP's ideology is welcome to join the party, though ally and Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena leaders had aired differing views.

Bawankule's assertions came soon after the Leader of Opposition Ajit Pawar himself came forward and ended all the rumours of his plotting a "political earthquake".

Given the aggressive NCP leader's history of the 80-hour experiment of November 2019, the rumours served to heat up the state political atmosphere with lots of suspense, mystery, and conspiracies.

Earlier, NCP President Sharad Pawar also dismissed all the speculation that his party was heading for a split with nephew Ajit Pawar preparing to walk out with at least 40 MLAs.

Top leaders of Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) comprising Congress-Shiv Sena (UBT) and NCP, have maintained a constant stance that there was "no question" of another rebellion, how they had full faith in Ajit Pawar and all the three parties are now working unitedly for the upcoming elections and strengthen the alliance.
Islamabad, April 18 : Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday held a meeting of the ally parties and rejected any conditional talks with any political party, including Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), media reports said.

The Prime Minister reiterated unity among the allies and expressed his satisfaction on the completion of a year in power, since the ouster of former premier Imran Khan in April last year, Samaa TV reported.

Sharif chaired a meeting of the allied parties to discuss the Punjab elections and the current political situation in the country.

The meeting was held at the Prime Minister's House on Tuesday.

The allies termed Imran Khan's behaviour in the meeting as 'stubbornness'. The participants in the meeting said those elements that spread hatred in the nation should not be taken seriously even in discussions, Samaa TV reported.

The coalition parties expressed their satisfaction at the completion of one year in power. The participants reiterated that the ruling alliance defiantly faced challenges and difficulties and vowed not to leave the nation alone in the time of crisis.

The legal team of the government gave a detailed briefing to the participants on judicial matters. The participants appreciated the efforts of the legal team.

The allies also completely rejected conditional negotiations with any political party, however, doors of dialogue in politics are always open, they noted, Samaa TV reported.

The government said that no one should set conditions for moving forward and expressed the commitment of the government coalition to 'selfless and purposeful' dialogue for the sake of the country.

The court orders related to the Punjab elections were discussed while the proposal for negotiations between the political parties were also considered in the meeting.
Kolkata, April 18 : The leader of the opposition in West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, claimed on Tuesday that immediately after the Election of Commission of India (ECI) withdrew the national party status of Trinamool Congress, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee rang up Home Minister Amit Shah with a plea to retain Trinamool's national party status until the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

"Soon after ECI's decision to withdraw the national party status of Trinamool Congress, the Chief Minister called up the Home Minister. During that telephonic conversation, she had appealed to Amit Shah to retain Trinamool's national party status till the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

"However, the Home Minister clearly told her that commission's decision cannot be reverted by him since ECI is an autonomous body," Adhikari said while addressing a rally at Singur in Hooghly district.

Till the time of filing of this report, no reaction came from the Chief Minister to Adhikari's claims.

However, Trinamool spokesman Kunal Ghosh rubbished the claims made by Adhikari, saying: "These are blatant attempts to spread falsehood by a traitor who along with his family members emerged in the political scenario of the state as by-products of the movement led by Mamata Banerjee against forceful land acquisition in Singur and Nandigram." Earlier, speaking at Singur, Adhikari launched a scathing attack against Mamata Banerjee for her movement that ultimately forced Tata Motors to withdraw its Nano car project from Singur.

"She (Banerjee) destroyed the employment dreams of several youths by driving away the Tatas. If BJP comes to power in West Bengal, it will bring back the Tata Group to Singur and give them a red-carpet welcome," Adhikari said.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. Ukrainian Uklon LLC company, which provides taxi services, has been registered in Azerbaijan, Trend reports via the state electronic register of commercial organizations of Azerbaijan's State Tax Service.

The company's authorized capital is $100,000.

Uklon is the first and largest Ukrainian ride-hailing service. The company offers ride-hailing, delivery service, carpooling, and other transportation services. It unites tens of thousands of drivers who, in general, perform more than two million trips per month. The company is included in the list of the top 30 startups in the world.

In a recent market niche known as taxi aggregators, the owners or brands rely on their partners to coordinate taxi drivers rather than owning their own cars. Examples of taxi aggregator business models are Bolt and Uber.
Kolkata, April 18 : Terming the situation more or less under control, in wake of the rising graph of the Covid-19 situation through the country, the West Bengal Health Department on Tuesday issued an advisory advising people to go for maximum use of face masks at public places.

"Crowd or mass gatherings to be avoided as far as possible, especially by the elderly, children, pregnant women and persons with co-morbidities. If compelled to enter into a crowd or travel in a mass transit, please use proper masks irrespective of age," the advisory read.

It also that if anyone is detected Covid-19 positive, they should stay in home isolation for at least a week. "If your symptoms aggravate or you start feeling short of breath (or oxygen keeps falling), report to a hospital or doctor immediately," the advisory read.

It also said that if a young child or person at higher risk turns Covid-19 positive, the person concerned must be taken to a hospital or doctor without any delay.
New Delhi, April 18 : The Jamia Millia Islamia told the Delhi High Court on Tuesday that it was declared a minority educational institution in 2011 and the provision of 10 per cent reservation for students from the economically weaker section (EWS) will not be applicable to it.

A division bench of Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma and Justice Yashwant Varma was hearing a plea by a law student, who has sought 10 per cent reservation for students belonging to the EWS category at the time of admission from academic year 2023-24 in the Jamia Millia Islamia.

The bench had granted two weeks' time to the university to file its reply to the petition filed as Public Interest Litigation (PIL).

The reservation is sought in view of the provisions of Constitution (One Hundred and Third Amendment) Act, 2019 under Article 15(6) of the Constitution.

Senior advocate Arun Bhardwaj, appearing for petitioner Akansha Goswami, submitted that either Jamia could be a central university or a minority institution and cannot be both.

He said the admission process has begun from April and will go on till September.

The university's standing counsel, Pritish Sabharwal, submitted that an order was passed by the National Commission for Minority Educational Institutions in 2011, declaring Jamia a minority educational institution.

He said the government issued a notification in 2019 that the office memorandum enabling the provision of 10 per cent reservation for EWS students in admission to educational institutions will not be applicable to minority institutions and Jamia is covered by it.

The court then posted the matter for next hearing on May 22.

Last month, the High Court had issued notice on the plea to the Centre, the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the varsity.

The petitioner sought it to implement the letter the UGC had, on January 18, 2019, issued requesting Vice Chancellors of all Central universities, including Jamia Millia Islamia, to implement 10 per cent of EWS reservation at the time of admission from the academic year 2019-2020.

Goswami's PIL claims that Jamia Millia Islamia issued a press release on February 5, 2019, refusing to implement the reservation quota for EWS students "citing its status as Minority Institution" under Article 30 of the Constitution.

The plea seeks direction on the varsity to withdraw its admission prospectus it had issued for the academic year 2023-2024 for undergraduate and graduate courses without making any provision for the 10 per cent EWS reservation and issue it afresh after making provisions for EWS reservation.

Jamia lost its identity by its conversion into the central university which was established by the Jamia Millia Islamia Act, 1988, the plea said.

"It is evident from the fact that Jamia Millia Islamia Act, 1988, had dissolved Jamia Millia Islamia Society and its memorandum of association and incorporated those provisions in the act which were completely different from its earlier MOA," the plea states.
Bhopal, April 18 : An order issued by the Department of Culture of Madhya Pradesh government regarding the removal of Muslim employees associated with the Maa Sharda Temple in Maihar in Satna district has become the talking point in the state.

The department has issued a letter to Satna district administration to comply with the directive issued earlier regarding removal of Muslim employees from the Maa Sharda Devi Prabandh Samiti. The directive was issued on April 5, but it came to the fore after it surfaced on social media on Tuesday.

The development came when the Assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh are just six months away. IANS has learnt that there are at least two Muslims who are associated with the Maa Sharda Devi Prabandh Samiti since 1988.

The Department of Culture in its order has also mentioned that a notification regarding the same had been issued earlier also, but no response was received. Therefore, complying with the directive (letter) issued by the department regarding the same, a report should be submitted within three days.

The department is headed by senior BJP leader Usha Thakur, who is also the Tourism Minister in Shivraj Singh Chouhan's Cabinet.

The department has also said that all meat and liquor shops located near the temple area will be removed.

The step has been taken following the recommendation of right wing groups, including the Vishva Hindu Parishad. The right wing outfits of Satna district had handed over a letter to Usha Thakur in January this year, following which the Satna district administration was directed to remove Muslim staff associated with the Maa Sharda Devi Prabandh Samiti. The fresh letter has been issued to comply with directive issued by the minister in January.

"We have received a letter regarding the matter and now it would be brought before the Prabandhan Samiti of the temple for discussion. Whatever the committee decides will be the final decision," a member of the Maa Sharda Devi Prabandh Samiti told IANS on condition of anonymity.

Situated atop Trikut hill, the temple is a reverred Hindu srine in the Vindhya region, which has numerous mythological stories attatched to it, including about 'Alha' and 'Udal'. The devotees climb 1,063 stairs to reach the temple, while a ropeway facility has also been established now for the convenience of the pilgrims.
Kochi, April 18 : A new controversy has broken out in the Malayalam film industry as the Film Employees Federation of Kerala (FEFKA) on Tuesday expressed its displeasure over the way "some" of the actors behave.

The FEFKA is the apex body of 19 different organisations that include drivers to directors and its General Secretary, director B. Unnikrishnan said things are reaching a point of difficulty over the way some actors are behaving.

"Before every film starts, the actors have to ink an agreement which has been cleared by the AMMA (Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes), but it has now come to notice that it's not being done. The problem now is certain actors are giving same dates and time to different directors and producers and if they sign the agreement, they know they will be in trouble and hence, they don't do it," he said.

"Another new problem that has now surfaced is some actors insist they be called when the film editing is being done and also others, who the actors say, also should be allowed to see the editing," Unnikrishnan added.

Even though he did not name these "trouble-makers", he dropped enough hints by saying that not all actors are acting so, but some of them.

According to those in the know of things, the trouble makers are a few of the new generation actors.

Now with the FEFKA firing the first salvo, all eyes are on the superstar Mohanlal- headed AMMA on how they respond to the charges.
New Delhi, April 18 : The Enforcement Directorate (ED) said on Tuesday that it has attached four properties in Karnataka's Coorg district worth Rs 11.04 crore belonging to Congress leader Karti P. Chidambaram and others in connection with the alleged INX Media money laundering case.

Proceedings under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) was initiated against Karti Chidambaram, Advantage Strategic Consulting Pvt. Ltd. (ASCPL), and others by the ED by recording an ECIR on the basis of an FIR registered by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for commission of offences punishable under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and Prevention of Corruption Act.

During investigation, the ED learnt that illegal gratification (proceeds of crime) was received directly and indirectly from INX Media Pvt Ltd, to which FIPB approval was granted by then Union minister P. Chidambaram, through several shell companies controlled by his son Karti Chidambaram.

"Illegal gratification was received in the company of the accused in the name of providing consultancy by the entities of INX Media. The total proceeds of crime laundered over a period of time was Rs 65.88 crore," the ED said.

The money was routed to overseas accounts and investments were made in various overseas properties and shares of companies through various shell companies directly or indirectly controlled by Karti Chidambaram and through his confidants.
Patna, April 18 : A man in Bihar's Muzaffarpur district shot dead his pregnant wife after his demand of for a SUV was not met by her family, and her angry parents and relatives cremated her dead body in front of his house, police said on Tuesday.

The deceased, Kajal Kumari, had a love marriage with Aakash Mahto 6 month ago and her parents gave a dowry and a car as per their financial capacity.

After a few months, Mahto demanded a Thar SUV which her family was unable to afford. However, he stayed adamant on his demand and also threatened her parents several times that he would kill her if his demand would not meet.

Mahto shot his wife on Monday night and fled from the spot. After learning about the incident, her family members reached there. The police were also informed and the dead body was sent for a post-mortem examination.

After the post-mortem examination was conducted in Sadar hospital, Kajal's family took the dead body to the accused's house at Motipur village and cremated her in front of the door.

"We have registered an FIR on a written complaint lodged by the deceased's mother Neelam Devi. She alleged that Aakash Mahto, his father Vijay Mahto, mother Rajpati Devi, sister Priya Kumari alias Guthi Kumari, two friends Vishal Kumar and Chandrashekher Kumar were involved in the murder of Kajal," Muzaffarpur's DSP, West, Abhishek Anand said.

The complainant also alleged that the accused was involved in illegal works and Kajal was objecting to it.

"We are conducting raids to arrest the accused. They are absconding now," Anand said.

"Keeping in view of the seriousness of the incident, we have deployed a large number of police forces at the village. The cremation was done in front of the police. The force was deployed as a precautionary measure to prevent any untoward incident," he added.

Earlier, a dead body of a girl was cremated in front of her boyfriend's house in a village that comes under Kanti police station as well.
New Delhi, April 18 : The Delhi High Court on Tuesday upheld the life sentence to a man convicted of shooting dead a two-year-old kid, citing evidence from the prosecution that he and the victim's father had a history of animosity.

The prosecution said that the incident occurred on February 18, 2016, when Vinod Kumar, went to the complainant's home and asked him to go drinking with him. The complainant's wife protested, at which Kumar got angry and left the place.

However, after a while, Kumar returned and opened fire from a window, hitting the complainant's young son as he was playing with him in the open space of his home, it claimed.

The complainant observed Kumar riding off on a motorbike from the scene.

After he was shot, the child was taken to a hospital but he succumbed the injuries.

A bench of Justices Siddharth Mridul and Gaurang Kanth dismissed the appeal filed by convict and upheld the trial court's May 2022 judgment, saying no interference was warranted.

According to the bench, the prosecution has also established a chain of evidence that is complete and not broken.

Circumstantial evidence and the fact that the convict was last seen at the spot of the incident have also been established, it said.

"This court finds no basis or reason to disagree with the inferences arrived at by the trial court convicting the appellant of the offences under Sections 302 (murder)/34 (common intention) of the IPC and Section 25 (possessing prohibited arms)/27 (punishment for using arms) of the Arms Act nor with the sentence meted-out for such offences," the bench said.

"The case of the prosecution has been based on circumstantial evidence and last seen theory. It has been proved on record by the testimony of prosecution witness 7 (child's father and complainant) that there was enmity between the appellant (Kumar) and PW-7, which establishes the motive of the appellant to commit the crime," it added.

The court also refused to accept the contention of Kumar that there was a fight between the parents of the child during which the father fired towards the mother, but accidentally, the bullet hit the toddler resulting in his death.

It said the defence raised by the convict was a mere speculation and he has not been able to prove it on record.
New Delhi, April 19 : A Delhi court on Tuesday committed the Kanjhawala case to the Court of Sessions for further proceedings.

The case stems from an incident, in which a 20-year-old woman was killed on the intervening night of December 31 and January 1 in the Kanjhawala area after her scooty was hit by the car and her body was dragged for around 12 km.

The case has been committed to the Court of Sessions after cognisance of the charge sheet against seven accused persons.

Rohini court's Metropolitan magistrate Sanya Dalal on Tuesday committed the case for further proceedings before the sessions court.

The district judge will mark the case to an additional Sessions Judge to conduct further proceedings in the matter.

The court committed the case after counsels for accused submitted that they have scrutinised the charge sheet and other documents. All the documents are complete.

On April 13, the court took cognisance of the 800-page charge sheet against seven accused filed by the Delhi Police in the case.

A copy of the charge sheet was also supplied to the accused.

Accused persons Deepak Khanna (26) Amit Khanna (25), Krishan (27), Mithun (26) and Manoj Mittal were arrested by the police on January 2.

Two other co-accused Ashutosh Bhardwaj and Ankush, were earlier given bail by the court.

Amit Khanna and Bhardwaj were also booked in accordance with the Motor Vehicles Act's rules.

According to the charge sheet, Amit Khanna, Krishan, Mithun and Mittal have been accused of murder.

"During the course of investigation, seven men were arrested and upon its completion, a charge sheet of around 800 pages was prepared with around 120 witnesses," Deputy Commissioner of Police (Outer), Harendra Singh, had earlier said.

The police had said, "On the basis of the material and evidence collected during the investigation, to the best of capabilities, sufficient material has come on record to prosecute the accused." It said all the accused were booked for criminal conspiracy, destruction of evidence, harbouring offender, common intention and false information, with intent to cause public servant to use his lawful power to the injury of another person.

Amit Khanna has been charged with additional offences by the Delhi Police for reckless driving and causing hurt by endangering their lives or personal safety.

Initially, the case was registered under Sections 279 and 304 of the IPC but later, police had added section 302 (murder) of the Indian Penal Code in the matter.

On January 21, the Rohini court had dismissed Deepak Khanna's bail plea.
Colombo, April 19 : Sri Lanka's former Attorney General (AG), who claimed that there was a 'grand conspiracy' behind the 2019 Easter Sunday attack, has been summoned to the police special investigation unit to record a statement.

Ex-Attorney General Dappula de Livera has been summoned to the Terrorist Investigation Department (TID) to appear on Wednesday following a direction by Justice Minister Wijayadasa Rajapakshe to the present AG to record a statement from the former AG.

Few days ahead of his retirement in 2021, Livera had stated that there was a 'grand conspiracy with regard to the 2019 April Attacks'.

Speaking to media, the former AG had stated that the foreign violent extremist religious ideology was imported to Sri Lanka at some point and it played a key role in carrying out the attacks.

Livera had also claimed that the investigations into the coordinated attacks, carried out on three Christian churches and four hotels on April 21, 2019, were focused on three people living overseas including Abu Hind in India, and Lukman Thalib and son in Australia for their connection to the attacks.

Indian security agencies, which had followed the extremist movement in Sri Lanka, National Thowheeth Jama'ath and its leader Mohammed Zaharan, had shared detailed information about the attacks well ahead of the disaster but Sri Lankan security had to act on the details provided.

The multiple attacks killed nearly 270 people including foreigners and injured over 500.
Mexico City, April 19 : Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has accused the US Pentagon of espionage, saying his government will protect its national defence information.

In his daily press conference, the Mexican President said that as part of this, Mexican media receive leaks from the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Xinhua news agency reported.

"We are going to guard the information from the Ministry of the Navy and the (Ministry of National) Defense because we are being spied on by the Pentagon and a lot of media in Mexico are leaking information provided by the DEA," he said.

Lopez Obrador said that his administration will protect state information for national security reasons, as well as in defense of Mexico's sovereignty.

The President's remarks came a day after he accused the DEA of "abusive meddling" and "arrogance" for an alleged operation to infiltrate the Sinaloa drug trafficking cartel.

The US government claims Mexico is responsible for the illegal trafficking of fentanyl into its territory.

In response, Mexico said the US is not doing enough to combat the causes that lead its population to resort to illicit drugs.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. Kazakhstan and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) signed a Country Program Framework outlining the main areas of cooperation between the sides from 2023 through 2028, Trend reports, citing the Ministry of Energy of Kazakhstan.

The document was signed by the Minister of Energy of Kazakhstan Almasadam Satkaliyev and the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency Rafael Grossi in the framework of the visit to Kazakhstan by the latter.

The program entails fostering cooperation in four directions, including the development of nuclear power infrastructure, nuclear and radiation safety, food security, and nuclear medicine.

The Country Program Framework signed between the Kazakh minister and the IAEA Director General also reflects Kazakhstans aspirations to become a nuclear energy-producing country. As a part of the meeting, the officials also discussed cooperation on the construction of the nuclear power plant.

The country framework program is the basis for medium-term planning of technical cooperation between Kazakhstan and the IAEA. The Ministry of Energy of Kazakhstan expects that the transfer of nuclear technologies and technical cooperation will assist the country to implement the project on the development of nuclear energy production.
Leapfin, the company behind the pioneering Finance Data Platform, today announced a partnership with the Connor Group and the appointment of its first VP of Product, Caitlin Steel. These additions combine the best resources for Finance and transformation and the best technology to support modern, real-time Finance decision-making.

The partnership with Connor Group, a leading specialized professional services firm solving complex finance, operational, and technology challenges for its customers, will help joint clients transform and automate financial processes, prepare for IPO, and maximize profitability for upcoming financing events. In parallel, Leapfin has announced a new focus to help provide digital companies with accurate, real-time, detailed transaction data to help Finance teams accelerate month-end close, eliminate audit stress, and accelerate the path to profitability, which Caitlin Steel will accelerate.

Todays wartime CFOs need to be armed with complete, detailed, and up-to-date data to make critical decisions regarding cash position and profitability in a tough market. Digital businesses process transactions with a diverse finance technology stack, including billing systems, payment service providers, and mobile app stores; the existing Order to Cash process needs to evolve to provide Finance with ownership over transaction data, said Ray Lau, CEO at Leapfin.

Were excited to partner with Connor Group, whose services and expertise are renowned in Financial Operations and readiness for IPO and other strategic financing events, to help more CFOs drive business success with real-time data, deliver the joint value of our Finance Data Platform, and provide shared expertise to our mutual customers. Our partnership will help arm CFOs with the tools they need to accelerate the path to profitability efficiently and at scale, continued Lau.

In fact, said Lau, it was one of our customers who introduced us, and were looking forward to sharing more of the joint value were creating with them and others in the near future.

Partnering with Leapfin, a leading finance data platform, will allow us to bring a pre-built automated solution to our clients that facilitates recording and reporting high volume customer transactions, said Lauren Bowe, Automation and Analytics Leader at Connor Group. Top growth companies rely on Connor Group to solve their most complex technology and business issues. We leverage our accounting and engineering experience to bridge the gap between finance and technology solutions.

Bowe continued, Connor Group and Leapfin together provide accurate financial data in real-time to successfully support informed decisions. Implementing the Leapfin platform is an obvious enhancement in the value we bring our clients."

The appointment of Caitlin Steel brings her over a decade of expertise in building products for Finance team transformations from Blackline, Xactly, and OpenGov, as well as prior experience as a CFO.

As a CFO, I hated relying on manual processes to close the books, manage audits, and provide my business partners with solid information. Those manual efforts kept my team and I from spending most of our time where we wanted to be: improving profitability, helping identify smart operational and strategic investments, and supporting the CEO and Board, said Steel.

Since becoming a Product leader, Ive been on a mission to free Finance teams to manage what matters, but weve been fighting a losing battle against the proliferation of operational data and systems that Finance teams have to reconcile. Im so excited to join Leapfins leadership team, who share my vision of Finance teams powered by the data they need, when they need it, at the level of detail they need  instead of stuck in workflows and Excel, Steel continued.

For more on how Leapfin is fulfilling the promise of Finance Data Platforms, please join us on April 26, when Caitlin will introduce a wide range of new capabilities.

About Leapfin

Leapfin turns operations data into finance data in real-time for the worlds leading digital brands.

The Leapfin Finance Data Platform unifies billing, ordering, payment, CRM, and other production data with intelligent accounting automation to create a GAAP-compliant, immutable Leapfin Financial Record for every transaction.

The Leapfin Finance Data Platform provides reliable and fast financial reporting to controllers, transaction-level detail for analysis to finance, and visibility to real-time revenue to decision-makers.

Canva, Reddit, SeatGeek, Medium, Vimeo, and many other fast-growing, high-volume digital brands trust Leapfin to be their finance data system of record.

Visit leapfin.com to learn more.

About Connor Group

Connor Group is a specialized professional services firm of Big 4 alumni and industry executives. Connor Group's team of highly experienced professionals helps financial executives with their most complex and significant matters, including financial accounting and operations, IPO and M&A services, digital solutions, and managed services.

The firm was founded in 2006 and has grown to more than 500 professionals with core offices in Silicon Valley, San Francisco, New York, Salt Lake City, and Boston.

Visit connorgp.com to learn more.
Were excited to bring much-needed Commercial Property capacity to Pathpoints extensive network of insurance agents, said Jamie Martin, Underwriting Director at Vave.

Pathpoint, the digital, modern wholesaler where insurance agents can get bindable small commercial E&S quotes in minutes, today announces the expansion of its Commercial Property offering. The expansion centers around the addition of Vaves commercial property product to Pathpoint. Vave is an MGA and Lloyds Coverholder that underwrites Surplus Lines US Property using a purely algorithmic approach, combining science, data, and precision underwriting to insure high-volume risk.

The partnership unlocks:



Wider appetite across catastrophe and non-catastrophe areas;

Increased opportunities for agents to quote across Package submissions.

These enable agents to place more commercial property more efficiently.

Adding Vave to Pathpoints carrier roster expands agents opportunity to auto quote submissions across hundreds of class codes, including all-new occupancies like hotels and distributors, in Pathpoints Monoline Property and Lessors Risk Only verticals. With the addition of Vave, Pathpoint has doubled its Total Insured Value (TIV) limit from $2.5 million to $5 million ($3 million on a per-location basis).

Pathpoints Commercial Property expansion directly addresses the markets need for catastrophe capacity. Through Vave, Pathpoint now offers expanded wind coverage in coastal states (including Texas and Louisiana), earthquake coverage, and named storm coverage.

Were excited to bring much-needed Commercial Property capacity to Pathpoints extensive network of insurance agents, said Jamie Martin, Underwriting Director at Vave. Our algorithmic underwriting model provides instant quotes informed by vast datasets, streamlining and simplifying access for Pathpoint users to the non-admitted commercial property market.

In addition to expanded appetite, agents have more opportunities to efficiently secure coverage for their clients. If an LRO Package submission declines, agents can now resubmit the application (without entering information again) to standalone quote the submission across LRO Property and LRO General Liability. Agents can then present the individual quotes to clients and bind either (or both) of the coverage options.

Weve been hearing from agents for months that they have an urgent need for additional Commercial Property options, particularly in catastrophe zones but around the country, and were excited to better help meet this need starting today, said Alex Bargmann, Pathpoints CEO. With an ever-evolving, and hardening market, agents require breadth and depth of coverage as well as flexible quoting options to meet their clients needs. Pathpoint is the easiest, fastest way to place this coverage.

Pathpoints expanded Commercial Property offering is now available to any licensed P&C insurance agent across the country binding business through Pathpoint. To learn more about Pathpoints appetite, visit our Knowledge Base or reach out to a Pathpoint Account Manager.

About Pathpoint:

Pathpoint is the modern wholesaler where insurance agents can get bindable small commercial E&S quotes in just a few minutes. We combine proprietary technology and first-class service to connect insurance agents with fast access to quotes from multiple, A-rated carriers in the Contractors, Vacants, Lessors Risk, Monoline Property, Restaurants, and Cyber verticals. Pathpoint is licensed in all 50 states and a coverholder at Lloyds of London. To learn more about Pathpoint visit http://www.pathpoint.com.

About Vave:

Vave is an MGA and Lloyds Coverholder, backed by Canopius, that is combining science, data, and precision underwriting to insure high-volume risk. With US Commercial Property, Homeowners Property and Flood products currently available, Vave uses massive data sets and advanced analytics to paint a detailed picture of a risk. Vaves proprietary algorithm, which is informed by third-party and internal data sources, adapts to dynamic market conditions, and ensures products remain relevant to the customer. Through automation, Vave has improved inefficiencies in the supply chain for a quicker underwriting process at a lower cost, and with transparency throughout the whole process. Vaves suite of white-labelled API services produce bindable quotes, allowing brokers to access products electronically, and bind and service them in real time.

Potential Policyholders are advised that insurance purchased through a surplus lines carrier that is not licensed in the Policyholder's home state is not protected by the state's insurance guaranty fund and may not comply with other provisions of that state's insurance regulations.
Achieving Microsoft Solutions Partner designation for Modern Work is a testament to the effectiveness of our Cloud Voice for Microsoft Teams service." -Michael Bacich, Executive Vice President of Sales, UniVoIP

UniVoIP, a leading telecommunications service provider, has been designated as a certified Solutions Partner for Modern Work in the recently revamped Microsoft Cloud Partner Program.

As a Microsoft Solutions Partner for Modern Work, UniVoIP has attained expert-level certifications and demonstrated a proven track record of delivering successful outcomes for clients. As of October 2022, the Solutions Partner designation replaced Microsofts former Gold and Silver competencies.

UniVoIPs Cloud Voice for Microsoft Teams simplifies how businesses of all sizes connect their Microsoft 365 tenant to the public switched telephone network (PSTN). The onboarding and activation process is fully automated, allowing administrators to easily connect UniVoIPs cloud voice backbone to their Microsoft 365 tenant, procure telephone numbers, and assign them to users all within minutes from a single pane of glass.

Achieving Microsoft Solutions Partner designation for Modern Work is a testament to the effectiveness of our Cloud Voice for Microsoft Teams service, which offers customers a comprehensive and dependable approach to utilizing MS Teams voice," said Michael Bacich, UniVoIPs Executive Vice President of Sales.

By leveraging Cloud Voice for Microsoft Teams and Microsoft Teams Phone System, organizations can work smarter by unifying calling, messaging, meetings, and collaboration in one application with a consistent user experience across all devices.

You can now try UniVoIPs Cloud Voice for Microsoft Teams for your organization risk-free for 30 days here: Cloud Voice for Microsoft Teams | Microsoft AppSource

About UniVoIP:

UniVoIP is a forerunner in cloud communications and a leading provider of managed voice services. Our engineer-focused team has decades of experience delivering the industrys most forward-thinking business communications technology  and their passion and dedication are embodied in the superior performance and reliability of our cloud-native infrastructure. We build meaningful relationships with our partners and customers and offer a white-glove approach to every interaction, which is evident by an industry-high customer retention rate of over 99%. Learn more by visiting univoip.com.
Geneverse Solar Generator Geneverse to Exhibit Innovative Solar Options for the Home at EarthxExpo Over Earth Day Weekend, and Attendees Will Get an Exclusive Low Price

As part of Geneverses commitment to providing affordable and compact green energy solutions for any lifestyle, the solar generator company will attend the three-day event to connect face to face with eco-conscious consumers and connect with other like-minded businesses and organizations. EarthX was founded by Trammell Crow in 2010 and is now host to the worlds largest green gathering of companies, non-profits, and policymakers to forward sustainability and global innovation.

As part of its commitment to sustainability, Geneverse is offering attendees the opportunity to purchase its solar generators at an exclusive, lower than ever price. In addition to this special offer, any and all purchases made over Earth Day weekend will be carbon neutral, as Geneverses partner EcoCart will offset the carbon footprint of each purchase by supporting verified carbon offset projects.

We are excited to be exhibiting at EarthX this year and to be part of a global community of innovators who are committed to sustainable solutions, said Anson Liang, CEO of Geneverse. We believe that renewable energy is the key to a sustainable future, and we are proud to offer our customers affordable and reliable solar solutions that help them reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a healthier planet.

Geneverses solar generators are indoor-safe, compact, and easy to use. The high power output makes them ideal for a wide range of applications, and with the companys focus on sustainability and affordability, Geneverse is rapidly becoming a leader in the solar energy industry.

We encourage everyone to come to EarthX to support and forward green initiatives and actions, said Liang. By working together, we can create a more sustainable future for ourselves and for future generations.

About Geneverse

Geneverse is a leading provider of renewable energy solutions, specializing in solar generators and solar panels. The company is committed to promoting sustainability and reducing dependence on fossil fuels by providing affordable, efficient, and reliable renewable energy solutions. For more information, please visit geneverse.com and follow @geneversepower on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and Twitter.

About EarthX

EarthX convenes the worlds largest environmental expo, conference, film festival, and television network and is a member of IUCN, International Union for Conservation of Nature. Founded in 2010 as Earth Day Dallas, the Texas-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization promotes environmental awareness and impact through conscious business, nonpartisan collaboration and community-driven sustainable solutions. In 2019, the April event drew over 177,000 attendees, 2,000 environmental leaders, and 750+ exhibitors. In 2020, the April virtual event drew over 570,000 live-stream views and reached 171 countries. As a part of EarthX, EarthX Media Inc. operates EarthxTV, a 24/7 linear television network dedicated to entertaining and informing audiences. Visit Earthx.org or follow us on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.
Villa Homes California desperately needs to build millions of units of housing this decade, especially at lower price points that average people can afford to buy or rent, said Roberts.

Villa Homes, Americas leading next-generation homebuilding platform, and the largest detached Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) builder in California, is launching operations in Americas Finest City of San Diego. Villas entry into the San Diego market is timely as the housing crisis in San Diego continues. Half of the citys housing supply consists of rental units, of which less than 1% are vacant, records show. The lack of housing supply has driven up rents by ~15% compared to last year, according to a study from the Southern California Rental Housing Association.

Despite headwinds in the broader housing market nationally, demand for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) continues to be extremely strong across California, with some of the most rapid growth in new ADU building happening across Southern California markets, remarks CEO of Villa Homes, Sean Roberts.

Since 2020, Villa has sold 500+ ADUs across the state of California, the largest of any organization in the industry. The company prides itself on being a turn-key, full-service home builder that helps its clients seamlessly navigate the process from beginning to end. Villa helps guide clients through the journey of discovery, feasibility, design, permitting, and construction of their ADU. Our focus at Villa is to build ADUs using modern offsite construction methods which are the most affordable, fastest, and  perhaps most importantly  the most sustainable and environmentally friendly way to build new homes.

Villa offers clients the widest selection of detached ADU options in California, building homes as small as 450 square feet and as large as 1,200 square feet, across a wide variety of floor plans with a high level of options to enable clients to personalize their home.

The number of ADU permits across California is up more than 20x in recent years on the heels of very important and smart legislative changes that the state has made, said Roberts. California desperately needs to build millions of units of housing this decade, especially at lower price points that average people can afford to buy or rent.

Villa has completed multiple pilot projects in the greater San Diego area over the last two years and is deeply familiar with the permitting process, the zoning laws and the process it takes to build an ADU in San Diego, enabling a quick timeline for clients to build their dream ADU. San Diego is required by the state to build 171,685 homes within the next 7 years and this demand is not likely to be met at the current rate.

Villa believes ADUs are a critical part of the solution to add homes quickly, especially at attainable price points in locations where people want to live and work. With todays launch in San Diego, Villa is excited to offer a discount of $10,000 to the first 10 customers who sign up to build ADUs in the region. In addition, an ADU model home is in the process of being built in Mission Valley and should be open to the public by Summer 2023.

For more information about Villas innovative ADU products, please visit http://www.villahomes.com.

ABOUT VILLA HOMES:

Villa is building Americas leading next-generation homebuilding platform. With a mission to be the easiest, fastest, and most cost-efficient way to build homes, Villa is a highly scalable new approach to offsite homebuilding and is playing a critical role in solving the many problems facing the U.S. housing market. Villa provides end-to-end services for clients that span feasibility, design, permitting, and construction of high-quality homes built using modern offsite construction. Villa is currently the largest ADU builder in California and is growing rapidly. For more information on Villa, please visit http://www.villahomes.com
Chris Balsley, CSS CFO

Converged Security Solutions (CSS), the holding company behind IT transformation, cybersecurity, and physical security companies Evolver and eVigilant, named Chris Balsley as Chief Financial Officer this week. Chris will oversee all finance, accounting, and treasury operations for CSS and its principal holdings, Evolver and eVigilant.

Chris complements our strong, performance-oriented culture and his track record for achieving results in rapidly growing companies makes him the right choice to lead our finance and accounting team, said Mike Santelli, Chief Executive Officer of CSS.

Chris joins CSS with more than 20 years of experience in optimizing financial resources to strategically position companies for long-term growth. He arrives following his previous CFO position at Southland Concrete Corporation, where he oversaw the organizations transition from an S-corporation to a C-corporation, while improving systems to evaluate financial information for better decision making.

With strong connections in the Washington, DC metropolitan area, Chris has also held financial leadership roles at SteelCloud, Opnet Technologies and Ankura Consulting, where he drove all financial operations, developed strategy, business modeling, and forecasting, and improved tech platforms during a time of significant growth. His total breadth of experience includes GovCon, professional services, IT, and construction, overlapping with several of CSSs market priorities.

I am thrilled to join this team and enable their vision of growth and success, Chris said. Im looking forward to applying my experience to the variety of customers and projects across the CSS portfolio.

Chris earned his BS in Management from the State University of New York, College at Geneseo, and his accounting certificate from Hofstra. He is a certified public accountant and a member of the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) and the CFO Leadership Council.

About CSS

Converged Security Solutions (CSS) is a customer-centric holding company managing the growth of IT transformation, cybersecurity, and physical security companies. Through its principal holdings, Evolver and eVigilant, CSS is committed to creating value for its clients through IT, cybersecurity, and physical security services and solutions. Founded in 2018, CSS is a privately-held company headquartered in Reston, Va., via the private investments of Hillcrest Holdings Inc. and Akoya Capital LLC. For more information, visit CSS at http://www.cssoperations.com, Evolver at http://www.evolverinc.com, or eVigilant at http://www.evigilant.com.
Roger Davenport returns to the publishing scene with the release of A Journey through History with the Davenports Volume 2: More true stories about living in Australia and working offshore. (published by Balboa Press AU) as he shares his passion for politics, Australia, family life, and making a difference.

At age 40, Davenport and his family moved from Southern Ireland to Perth, Australia. Suddenly, they had to become accustomed to a new way of life, with him working in the global offshore oil and gas industry. As time went on, he became involved in politics at the local, state, and federal level, joining the Liberal Party and becoming a branch president.

But politics is a tough game, and a few years later, Davenport left the party only to run for the State Parliament as a member of the Seniors Party in 2001. Shortly after that, he teamed up with a group of associates in a bid to form an independent party called We the People.

This book includes a chapter devoted to the changing climate, with Davenport wondering if carbon dioxide is really the cause. He also shares his insights on how the world has changed over the past eighty yearsand whether those changes have been for better or worse.

I would like to think that readers will find my book thought provoking. They might not agree with my views about issues that occurred in the past and the changes that happened that would remain untold in the future, but I hope it will stir their imagination and add to conversations instead of relying on social media and brainwashed by the woke society, Davenport says. When asked what he wants readers to take away from the book, he answered, To view life through their own eyes and to form their own opinions. For more details about the book, please visit https://www.balboapress.com/en-au/bookstore/bookdetails/846852-a-journey-through-history-with-the-davenports-volume-2

A Journey through History with the Davenports Volume 2: More true stories about living in Australia and working offshore.

By Roger Davenport

Softcover | 8.25 x 11in | 150 pages | ISBN 9781982296636

E-Book | 150 pages | ISBN 9781982296629

Available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble

About the Author

Roger Davenport, a native of Cheshire, England, was a Cub Scout and Boy Scout before becoming a Navy cadet. After leaving school at 16, he worked on Birkenhead Docks and left England five years later, traveling to Eire to become a professional fisherman. He settled down, married, raised a family, and became a trawler owner. He moved to Australia with his family at age 40.

Balboa Press Australia is a division of Hay House, Inc., a leading provider in publishing products that specialise in self-help and the mind, body and spirit genre. Through an alliance with the worldwide self-publishing leader Author Solutions, LLC, authors benefit from the leadership of Hay House Publishing and the speed-to-market advantages of the Author Solutions self-publishing model. For more information or to start publishing today, visit balboapress.com.au or call 1-800-844-925.
The Reverend Lisa R. Kelson wants to help others who are struggling to embrace their sexuality at the intersection of religion and God. It is for this reason she releases A Lesbians Awakening to Purpose, Self-Love, and God: A Souls Journey to Self-Awareness, Identity, and Truth (published by Balboa Press).

This book is about Kelson's journey as a lesbian and the courage it took her to live into the person God created her to be. It has taken her nearly 60 years to wake up to her true authentic self. In her younger days, she lived from her personality or ego until one day she awakened to her higher-self.

For many years, Kelson lived from her lower aspect while trying to fit into society's social rules and norms. She ignored her inner compass and became frustrated because she did not fit into the labels, dogma and traditional path.

Falling in love with a woman forced "Kelson" to examine family and religious beliefs around sexuality. Ironically it was at this intersection between religion and sexuality that led her to a spiritual awakening. Once finding the spiritual path she immersed herself in the higher ancient wisdom teachings and this understanding set her soul free. Falling in love with a woman forced Kelson to examine family and religious teachings but this path also led her to a spiritual awakening. Once she realized that there was a spiritual path, she immersed herself in the higher teachings, and this spiritual path led her soul to freedom.

This is a book about learning how to redirect the energies in our lives. Instead of placing blame or pretending we are weak in situations, we should learn that we are powerful souls who come here to expand our awareness. To do this, we must figure out what our lessons are in every situation and then learn it. When our lessons are mastered, we improve our lives and energetic vibrations, Kelson says.

When asked what she wants readers to take away from the book, Kelson answered, I want them to understand that they have a powerful divine source deep within them and if they spend the time uncovering that aspect, they will experience a birthing of a new person. A higher and more powerful version they never knew. For more details about the book, please visit https://www.balboapress.com/en/bookstore/bookdetails/811353-a-lesbians-awakening-to-purpose-self-love-and-god

A Lesbians Awakening to Purpose, Self-Love, and God: A Souls Journey to Self-Awareness, Identity, and Truth

By The Reverend Lisa R. Kelson

Hardcover | 5.5 x 8.5in | 118 pages | ISBN 9798765234181

Softcover | 5.5 x 8.5in | 118 pages | ISBN 9798765234174

E-Book | 118 pages | ISBN 9798765234198

Available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble

About the Author

The Reverend Lisa R. Kelson is a native Floridian. She was born to an average working-class family. Her father worked as an electrician and her mother was a stay-at-home mom. She attended primary and secondary school through the Florida public school system. After high school graduation, she was offered a softball scholarship, and attended what is now Edison State College, in Fort Myers, Florida. After completing her associates degree, she continued seeking higher education and completed her Bachelor of Sports Science Education in December 1984. She joined the Army on Feb. 25, 1987, and completed her military service after returning from the Gulf War in April 1991. After returning from the war, she worked at an aircraft aviation company repairing Gulf War helicopters. She enjoyed this position but soon relocated to Atlanta, Georgia and completed her masters degree in technology education at the University of Georgia in 1999. Kelson move back home to Pensacola, Florida sometime in 2002 and would complete her Master of Divinity in May of 2016. While this experience prepared her for church ministry, she would soon awaken to a higher spiritual path where she shifted her focus to following a path to awaken her higher self. The spiritual path led her to finding her higher self. This spiritual path also led her to understanding deeper truths that eventually liberated her soul.

Balboa Press, a division of Hay House, Inc.  a leading provider in publishing products that specialize in self-help and the mind, body, and spirit genres. Through an alliance with the worldwide self-publishing leader Author Solutions, LLC, authors benefit from the leadership of Hay House Publishing and the speed-to-market advantages of the self-publishing model. For more information, visit balboapress.com. To start publishing your book with Balboa Press, call 844-682-1282 today.
Intelligent Process Automation with a focus on Intelligent Document Classification and Advanced Data Capture "We are thrilled to have reached this milestone and grateful for the trust our customers and partners have placed in us," said Noel Flynn, CEO of ancora Software.

ancora Software, Inc., a global leader in intelligent process automation solutions, announced the signing of its thousandth customer. This milestone caps two years of exponential growth and sets the stage for ancora to reach its new goal of 1,300 customers by the end of 2023.

In a time when the largest technology companies are making news by laying off staff, ancora is celebrating its success, which CEO Noel Flynn attributes to the strength of its products and its partner channel. "We are thrilled to have reached this milestone and grateful for the trust our customers and partners have placed in us," said Noel Flynn, CEO of ancora Software. "There is nothing more fulfilling as a company than starting from the very beginning and watching the customer base continually grow over time. But now that we have reached this magical 1,000 customers we are not just sitting back, in Q1 2023 we signed 56 additional new customers putting the company well on its way toward reaching our goals,

According to Flynn, the ancora Partner Program is responsible for the bulk of the companys sales. Our strategic partner channel is incredible, and we could never have reached this level of growth without them, Flynn said.

At the beginning of the pandemic three years ago, ancora was serving only a few hundred customers. Despite the uncertainty of lock downs and the economic roller coaster that followed, ancoras leadership focused on what their customers needed most: the ability to streamline operations and do more with less.

The focus on providing deep value worked. We worked hard to get here, but were not surprised that we made it, Flynn said. Our customers are working through the same down economy we are, and they want the same thingto be able to keep costs low so they can grow. Our software solutions make that possible by reducing manual touch points for the accounts payable process, which is historically a major overhead cost for businesses looking to grow.

Flynn is bullish about the odds. We work with great people who build a great product and provide the best customer support in the industry. We know there are businesses out there looking for a way to automate, and we cant wait to connect with them.

About ancora Software

ancora Software, Inc. is an innovative provider of Intelligent Process Automation solutions, including Intelligent Document Classification and Data Capture. Its flagship product, ancoraDocs, simplifies document capture. ancora Softwares patented artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies help organizations eliminate costly manual steps in their business processes such as document classification, document analysis, manual data entry, and manual filing. Organizations using ancora Software achieve faster and less expensive business process automation and better controls over their mission-critical information. Headquartered in San Diego, CA, ancora Software maintains sales and support operations throughout North America and in the United Kingdom.

For more on ancora Software, Inc. visit http://www.ancorasoftware.com


Cove Terra (shown here) represents a range of colors and possibilities for beautiful design in harmony with nature To meet this moment, weve added stone- and concrete-look porcelain tile collections, Hero and Cove Terra, to our robust line-up of tiles and decors that gracefully blur the line between nature and the built environment

Atlas Concorde USA, an Italian designed, American made porcelain and ceramic tile manufacturer, introduces Hero, a modern porcelain tile collection inspired by natural slate stone, and Cove Terra, a solid color concrete-look porcelain tile collection. Drawing from the beauty of nature-inspired colors and organic materials, the two new collections feature rich pigments, highly textural surfaces and contemporary shapes and sizes. Ideal for use in residential, commercial or hospitality applications, Hero and Cove Terra support the continued focus on materials and spaces that enhance comfort, serenity and wellbeing.

As we collectively gain a stronger appreciation for the natural world, the desire to create beautiful spaces that prioritize our innate connection to the outdoors has never been more apparent, said Federico Pifferi, Chief Executive Officer, Atlas Concorde USA. To meet this moment, weve added stone- and concrete-look porcelain tile collections, Hero and Cove Terra, to our robust line-up of tiles and decors that gracefully blur the line between nature and the built environment.

HERO

Designed to accentuate the allure of natural slate stone, the new Hero porcelain tile collection evokes a sense of connectivity to nature with its fine-grained, foliated surface and deep hues. Bringing a subtle strength and elegance to any surface, the stone-look collection conveys all the character of the reference material in six intense colors, each synonymous with metamorphic rock. To provide customers with an updated take on a classic look, Hero tiles are available in three sizes, including a traditional 12 x 24 format, the larger 24 x 48 format and the on-trend 3 x 12 subway tile. A new linear brick mosaic completes the collection, adding modern appeal when applied on a wall or floor.

COVE TERRA

Celebrating the worlds most ancient building materials, raw earth and clay, the new Cove Terra porcelain tile collection represents a range of colors and possibilities for beautiful design in harmony with nature. With a look and feel reminiscent of old-world pottery, the solid surface brings vibrant pigments and a pleasantly smooth texture to contemporary applications. As a result, customers can achieve a tranquil balance between the ancient and modern world, as well as the natural and built environment. Cove Terra is offered in nine different neutral and accent colors, including a deep denim blue and jade green that extend a restorative energy into a space. Two new mosaics and coordinating trim pieces complete the extensive collection, allowing for seamless design across surfaces.

To learn more about Atlas Concorde USAs new porcelain tile collections, visit http://www.atlasconcordeusa.com/en/.

###

About Atlas Concorde USA

Atlas Concorde USA is a ceramic and porcelain tile brand created to blend true American heritage and tradition with Italian cutting-edge design and excellence. Atlas Concorde USA aims to enhance American living spaces with innovative US-inspired surfaces. For more information, please visit http://www.atlasconcordeusa.com/en/.
"We are excited to introduce Villa Pereire to our portfolio of wines sourced from one of the finest wine regions in France," said Marc Mondavi and Peter Mondavi Jr., Co-proprietors of C. Mondavi & Family.

C. Mondavi & Family, a leading majority women-owned wine company, announced today the latest addition to their growing portfolio. A strategic acquisition of Villa Pereire wines, which is sourced from France's prestigious Bordeaux and Rhone Valley regions. The company's decision to include Villa Pereire in their portfolio of brands is driven by their steadfast commitment to exceptional quality.

"We are excited to introduce Villa Pereire to our portfolio of wines sourced from one of the finest wine regions in France," said Marc Mondavi and Peter Mondavi Jr., Co-proprietors of C. Mondavi & Family. "The wines are a reflection of our commitment to quality, and the pursuit of excellence. We hope our customers enjoy them as much as we do."

C. Mondavi & Family has a rigorous selection process for the inclusion of acquisitions or strategic partnership to their portfolio. Among other criteria, they prioritize working with family-owned producers who are committed to harvesting grapes at the perfect ripeness and hand-crafting exceptional quality wines from premier, small lots, ensuring that each wine in their portfolio is a true reflection of its terroir and the winemaker's expertise. Adherence to these strict selection criteria has earned them a reputation for excellence and provides their customers with access to some of the finest wines from around the world.

"At our core, we're committed to seeking out exceptional, high-quality, premium brands, for acquisition or strategic partnerships from wine regions all over the world that offer consumers something truly unique. We're dedicated to expanding the high end of our portfolio with these exceptional finds, and sharing them with the world," says David Brown, CEO of C. Mondavi & Family.

After conducting a thorough search for the finest wines in France, the C. Mondavi & Family team was drawn to the exceptional quality and old-world charm of Villa Pereire. The collection features three standout wines, each with its own unique flavor profile:



Bordeaux Blanc, 2021, AOC: Sourced from the rocky, well-drained soils of Bordeaux, France, this wine boasts mineral and citrus notes that are complemented by a supple, toasty oak complexity. Its versatility makes it an excellent pairing for a wide range of dishes, while also being enjoyable to drink on its own. Offered at $22.99.

Bordeaux, 2020, AOC: This wine is sourced from the low-lying gravelly hills of the Garonne riverbanks in France, where the sandy-pebbly, well-drained soils create optimal conditions for growing concentrated berries that intensify the wines flavors. With a full-bodied character and savory notes of graphite, black currant, black cherry, and tobacco, this wine is supported by firm and balanced tannins, culminating in a long and velvety finish that provides an exceptional experience for the senses. Offered at $22.99.

Cotes-du-Rhone, 2021, AOC: Hailing from the Cotes-du-Rhone region in Southern France, this medium-bodied wine is an artful blend of Grenache and Syrah varieties. Notes of raspberry, lavender, fig, blackberry, dried herbs, and cured meat on the nose and palate create a harmonious and well-rounded flavor profile. The finish is soft and supple, making it a delightful wine to savor. Offered at $22.99.

According to Pam Novak, Vice President of Marketing for C. Mondavi & Family, Villa Pereire is a wine brand that is distinctly positioned and reaches a new target audience for us in the marketplace. We selected only the highest quality wines from regions renowned for producing exceptional wines at an attractive price point that exceeds the expectations of US consumers.

Each of these wines offers a unique and exceptional experience, reflecting the expertise and passion of Villa Pereire. For more information on the Villa Pereire please visit https://www.cmondavifamily.com.

About C. Mondavi & Family:

C. Mondavi & Family is a majority women-owned wine company based in St. Helena, California, that is committed to sustainability in its operations. Founded in 1943 by Cesare and Rosa Mondavi, the company is now owned and operated by third-generation co-proprietors Marc Mondavi and Peter Mondavi Jr., along with their children, the fourth generation, who have stepped into the business. The family legacy continues to grow with the recent arrival of the fifth generation. With a portfolio that includes Charles Krug Winery, CK Mondavi and Family, Flat Top Hills, French Blue, West + Wilder, and Valdo Prosecco, C. Mondavi & Family continues to expand while also prioritizing sustainable practices in their vineyards and winemaking. They hold over 1,500 acres of Napa Valley and California vineyards that they manage using environmentally friendly practices, including water conservation, cover crops, and integrated pest management. For more information on C. Mondavi & Family, please visit http://www.cmondavifamily.com.
Employee experience is a top priority at Crossfuze, and we work hard to provide an environment that encourages collaboration, innovation, diversity and opportunities for professional growth.

Crossfuze is proud to have recently been named a Certified Great Place To Work in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom. The prestigious award is based entirely on what current employees say about their experience working at Crossfuze. According to GPTW, 57% of employees rate a typical company as a great place to work. This year, 85% of all employees at Crossfuze said its a great place to work. Additionally, 94% of staff reported that they are treated as a full member at Crossfuze regardless of position, and 94% of employees agree management promotes inclusive behavior, avoids discrimination and is committed to ensuring fair appeals.

We are thrilled to be recognized as a certified Great Place To Work, said Steve Griffiths, COO at Crossfuze. Employee experience is a top priority at Crossfuze, and we work hard to provide an environment that encourages collaboration, innovation, diversity and opportunities for professional growth. Our employees are the key to the success of our customers and business, and we thank them for all they have done to help us earn this incredible recognition.

In 2022, Crossfuze launched the Family First Benefits Program to expand upon the already employee-centric workplace culture. This program offered new benefits and support for new parents, including company-paid maternity and paternity leave; generous time away from work, with additional PTO for mental health days, year-round half-day Fridays and extended bereavement leave; and full autonomy to determine when and where work gets done.

Great Place To Work Certification isnt something that comes easily  it takes ongoing dedication to the employee experience, said Sarah Lewis-Kulin, vice president of global recognition at Great Place To Work. Its the only official recognition determined by employees real-time reports of their company culture. Earning this designation means that Crossfuze is one of the best companies to work for in the United States, Canada and the UK.

According to Great Place To Work research, job seekers are 4.5 times more likely to find a great boss at a Certified great workplace. Additionally, employees at Certified workplaces are 93% more likely to look forward to coming to work and are twice as likely to be paid fairly, earn a fair share of the companys profits and have a fair chance at promotion.

WERE HIRING!

Looking to grow your career at a company that puts its people first? Visit our careers page at crossfuze.com/careers.

About Crossfuze

Crossfuze is a global, multiple award-winning ServiceNow Elite Partner. As a leading workflow company with four Certified Master Architects on staff, it provides advisory, implementation and support services and expertise to its customers to help them bring new value to their businesses through digital transformation.

About Great Place To Work Certification

Great Place To Work Certification is the most definitive employer-of-choice recognition that companies aspire to achieve. It is the only recognition based entirely on what employees report about their workplace experience  specifically, how consistently they experience a high-trust workplace. Great Place To Work Certification is recognized worldwide by employees and employers alike and is the global benchmark for identifying and recognizing outstanding employee experience. Every year, more than 10,000 companies across 60 countries apply to get Great Place To Work-Certified.

About Great Place To Work

Great Place To Work is the global authority on workplace culture. Since 1992, it has surveyed more than 100 million employees worldwide and used those deep insights to define what makes a great workplace: trust. The employee survey platform empowers leaders with the feedback, real-time reporting and insights they need to make data-driven people decisions. Everything it does is driven by the mission to build a better world by helping every organization become a great place to work For All.

Learn more at greatplacetowork.com and on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
CrawlSF redesigns its website with Digital Silk With clear, foundational brand guidelines in place, CrawlSF can not only ensure consistency across their touchpoints [...] but also optimize their messaging and campaigns by leveraging our research-based insights. - Jamie Maloney, VP at Digital Silk

14.8 million people visited San Francisco in 2021, spending $3.1 billion in the process. Of these visitors, 85% list an event as the main reason for their visit.

CrawlSF, the go-to place for pub crawls, events and things to do in San Francisco, partnered with creative web design agency Digital Silk to launch an online space that connects visitors and locals alike to the citys exciting bar and events scene.

Digital Silks team delivered:



Businesses can request a quote for their project on the agencys website.

Together with Digital Silks award-winning designers, CrawlSF created a user-friendly website that acts as the ultimate source of information for the San Francisco events industry. From UX and UI design to development, the brand worked with Digital Silk to plan, design, and build a highly intuitive and engaging user experience.

Some of the websites key homepage design features include:

A filtered search bar & calendar to find relevant events

A scroller section to see CrawlSFs upcoming signature pub crawls

An insights area to learn more about San Franciscos wider tours & attractions

A news section to keep up-to-date with the latest happenings in the city

To create a website that speaks to both San Francisco residents and visiting eventgoers, CrawlSF also worked with the agencys expert brand strategists to identify market opportunities, optimize the brands positioning, and develop the foundational elements of their brand persona, including values, mission, vision, messaging, and brand voice guidelines.

According to Jamie Maloney, client partner and VP at Digital Silk, the brand strategy has helped the team navigate the key elements of CrawlSF.coms user experience.

With clear, foundational brand guidelines in place, CrawlSF can not only ensure consistency across their touchpoints, from their website to social media and beyond, but also optimize their messaging and campaigns by leveraging our research-based insights, said Maloney.

About Digital Silk:

Digital Silk is a creative digital agency focused on growing brands online. From custom websites to digital marketing, Digital Silk creates SUPERIOR digital experiences to drive higher conversions, greater brand engagement and measurable results.
Eiseman Construction estimator Patrick Gallagher, owner Melissa Eiseman, and partner Aaron Pilch received the Presidents Club honor from GAF at its annual conference in March 2023. We are honored to receive the Presidents Club designation from GAF for our dedication to the best possible service, quality, and protection, said Eiseman Construction owner Melissa Eiseman.

Eiseman Construction is pleased to announce that it recently received GAFs Presidents Club designation, the highest recognition contractors can receive within the manufacturers Master Elite Program. The award was presented at GAFs Wealth Builder Conference, to which only the Master Elite contractors  the top 2 to 3 percent of contractors nationwide  are invited.

We are honored to receive the Presidents Club designation from GAF for our dedication to the best possible service, quality, and protection, said Eiseman Construction owner Melissa Eiseman. We take our commitment to excellence in roofing seriously, and GAF has been a wonderful partner in ensuring that we can provide our customers with products that meet the highest standards of the industry.

Contractors earn the Presidents Club designation through consistent, reliable service and high consumer ratings. GAF, North Americas largest roofing manufacturer, presents this award at a conference that features knowledge-sharing sessions, expert training, and several evenings of celebratory events. Eiseman Construction owner Melissa Eiseman, partner Aaron Pilch, and estimator Patrick Gallagher attended the conference, which was held March 23 to 26.

Eiseman Construction also has received the GAF Triple Excellence Award, which is bestowed on companies that have demonstrated a commitment to excellence in installation, training, and consumer protection. As a Master Elite contractor, the company stays up-to-date on the most recent developments in roofing technology and application methods in order to provide the highest quality service possible.

For more than 50 years, Eiseman Construction has served residential and commercial clients throughout Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware, installing new and replacing aging roofs with materials including asphalt, slate, cedar, and metal. In addition to the distinctions it has earned from GAF, Eiseman has been named a CertainTeed Master Shingle Applicator.

About Eiseman Construction: A full-service contractor specializing in roofing and exterior remodeling, Eiseman Construction has served residential and commercial clients across Pennsylvania and New Jersey for more than 50 years. From its headquarters in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, Eiseman provides services for a variety of projects, from residential housing, multi-family townhouses, and condominium projects to historic and commercial repairs and renovations. Eiseman has got you covered, always.
With the addition of experienced and talented go-to-market leadership, we are excited to see the product and customer success growth in the market so farwith more on the horizon.

KUBECON AND CLOUDNATIVECON EUROPETetrate, the company accelerating enterprise service mesh adoption, driving zero-trust architecture and reducing hybrid cloud complexity, today reported it added a series of new enterprise customers in the first quarter of 2023, signaling rapid maturation and a corresponding heat-up in the service mesh market. The massive 50% boost in customer count is a trend the company expects to continue.

The announcement was made at KubeCon Europe in Amsterdam, where the company is showcasing the newest addition to its product lineup, Tetrate Service Express (TSE). The new offering further expands the Tetrate service mesh product family, cementing Tetrate as the only company to offer service mesh for every size of user:



Tetrate Istio Distribution offers Istio open source to users.

Tetrate Istio Subscription offers the support and services enterprises need for successful deployment.

TSE offers Istio service mesh for AWS, integrated into Elastic Kubernetes Service (EKS).

Tetrate Service Bridge offers multicluster, multicloud, multiteam application connectivity and security.

TSE is designed to offer an easy-to-deploy option on AWS EKS with the most-popular integrations to AWS services so DevOps and DevSecOps teams can start fast and quickly gauge the ROI of an Istio-powered service mesh across their enterprise.

Enterprise customers signing during Q1 included Freddie Mac, Visa and Microstrategy. The companys go-to-market program has scaled up during the first quarter, led by Matt Murphy, head of global sales and customer success. Murphy brings over a decade of sales management experience scaling high growth sales teams at companies such as New Relic, DataDog and PagerDuty. Matt's deep understanding of DevSecOps and modernization initiatives surrounding digital transformation is helping Tetrate's customers and partners quickly realize value.

In addition to Murphy, three additional key leadership hires contributed to the Q1 sales success.

Erik Frieberg joined the Tetrate team as COO. Frieberg brings extensive experience from operational and marketing roles at VMware, Puppet, Solo.io and MongDB. With more than 25 years of marketing, sales and product experience at open source, startups and large enterprise software companies, Frieberg has significant experience building go-to-market teams and scaling organizations. As SVP of Cloud, Product and Integrated Marketing at VMware, where he was responsible for growing key product areas - more than doubling revenue in End User Computing and launching VMwares cloud offerings, including VMware Cloud on AWS. At Puppet, he focused on rebuilding the GTM organization and positioning the company for a successful exit. At Solo.io, he built the marketing organization from scratch.

Devin Davis joined as well, taking on the role of vice president, marketing and communications. He brings substantial marketing leadership and open source experience from roles at Lacework, Puppet and the Cloud Foundry Foundation. At Cloud Foundry Foundation, Davis more than doubled revenue and membership. At Puppet, he repositioned the company for a successful exit, and at Lacework, he led a global marketing strategy to rebrand and reposition the company and product while crafting the successful security is a data problem message.

David Wang has joined the Tetrate team as head of product. He brings extensive experience, including marketing and product marketing leadership responsibility at MuleSoft and Databricks, overseeing the development and launch of multiple product families in API management, eiPaaS, and data engineering. Earlier roles include McKinsey, where he served global financial services and retail clients on technology strategy, and software engineering roles at Northrop Grumman and Arch Rock (later acquired by Cisco).

As an engineering-led organization, getting the product and customer success elements in place takes top priority for an early stage startup, said Varun Talwar, co-founder of Tetrate. With the addition of experienced and talented go-to-market leadership, we are excited to see the product and customer success growth in the market so farwith more on the horizon. Were grateful for the roles that everyone on our marketing, engineering and customer success teams have played in showing that enterprise service mesh is indeed ready for prime time.

About Tetrate

Started by Istio founders to reimagine application networking, Tetrate is the enterprise service mesh company managing the complexity of modern, hybrid cloud application infrastructure. Its flagship product, Tetrate Service Bridge, provides a comprehensive, enterprise-ready service mesh platform built for multicluster, multitenancy, and multicloud deployments. Customers get consistent, baked-in observability, runtime security and traffic management in any environment. Tetrate remains a top contributor to the open source projects Istio and Envoy Proxy. Find out more at http://www.tetrate.io and on Twitter at https://twitter.com/Tetrateio.

###
IAQ Device We started IAQ because we believe creating a cleaner, healthier environment starts in your own home.

Today marks the launch of a groundbreaking new indoor air quality monitor available on Kickstarter: IAQ, the first-of-its-kind no-setup, smart device that can measure more than 20 air pollutants, including all of the worst contaminants flagged by the EPA.

In a post-pandemic world where people spend more than 90% of their time inside, IAQ provides unparalleled transparency into air quality data. Just plug IAQ into any power outlet in your home, office, or lab and instantly access a dashboard with real-time readouts of contaminant levels in the air, and get alerts directly to your smartphone when air quality drops.

Co-founders Gideon Rubin and Josh Odmark tapped their expertise from successfully co-founding two San Diego-based technology companies, Pandio and Local Data Exchange, to develop IAQ, an easy and sensible approach to monitor indoor air quality and maximize health and safety.

Despite strong support for global climate change initiatives, we realized that the local environment in our homes is still a relative unknown, said Rubin. We started IAQ because we believe creating a cleaner, healthier environment starts in your own home.

The journey to launching IAQ started with personal experiences that alerted Rubin and Odmark to the gravity of indoor air pollution and the need for a more accessible and comprehensive solution to monitoring indoor air quality.

When my wife became pregnant with my first child, I started thinking more about the health and safety of our home, and I was shocked to find out how common poor indoor air quality is, said Odmark. Even more surprising was how hard it was to get a read on my homes air quality. Every product on the market was either too expensive, too complicated, or limited in the air contaminants it could measure.

IAQ addresses these problems by offering comprehensive air quality monitoring in a user-friendly and affordable format. The simple 3D-printed device offers:



Measurement of 20+ air pollutants, including all EPA-flagged contaminants

Real-time dashboard with automated smartphone alerts

Seamless integration with popular smart home systems (e.g. Apple HomeKit, Alexa, Smart Things, and more)

Cellular connectivity for data transmission (no need for Wi-Fi or Bluetooth)

Easy setup, just plug it in and it starts measuring air quality immediately

Ease of use and accessibility were top-of-mind when we were developing this device because the populations most vulnerable to poor air quality, such as the elderly and children, are often the least able or empowered to take action, said Rubin.

We wanted to use Kickstarter to launch this product because we think IAQ provides a simple tool for people whove had so few options to monitor their indoor air, and crowdfunding felt like a natural fit, said Odmark. Our goal is to put one of these devices into every home.

Today, IAQ can monitor levels of more than 20 indoor air contaminants, including smoke, carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), mold, radon, and particulate matter. It also captures basic components of air quality such as temperature, air pressure, and humidity.

While IAQ already offers extensive monitoring capabilities, the team plans to explore further advancements in the future, including additional pollutant sensors, sound level detection, and enhanced home automation integrations.

In the long run, the data produced by IAQ can contribute to improved air quality for communities and society as a whole. For example, IAQ data could inform policy to reduce harmful emissions and address growing climate-related concerns such as wildfires, pollution, and extreme weather. The net result is a healthier environment and many lives saved.

Please join the movement for healthier indoor environments by supporting IAQ on Kickstarter today. Visit our campaign page to learn more, contribute, and help bring this revolutionary air quality monitor to homes everywhere.

IAQ

302 Washington St #150-16517

San Diego, CA 92103

info@yourIAQ.com

Executive Bios:

Gideon Rubin is the CEO and co-founder of IAQ, where he leads the company's strategy and business development. He previously co-founded Pandio and Local Data Exchange, and held c-level roles at NavAds and Local Market Launch. Gideon is an experienced entrepreneur focused on building organizations that use data, AI, and machine learning to solve complex problems and change lives for the better.

Josh Odmark is the co-founder and CTO of IAQ, where he leads product development and engineering efforts. A full-stack engineer with deep experience in data science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence, Josh has co-founded several technology companies, including Pandio and Local Data Exchange. Josh is an experienced engineer and maker with a passion for building data-driven tools that solve everyday problems.


Law Office of Blumenthal Nordrehaug Bhowmik De Blouw LLP For more information about the class action lawsuit against Caremark, L.L.C., call (800) 568-8020 to speak to an experienced California employment attorney today.

The Los Angeles employment law attorneys, at Blumenthal Nordrehaug Bhowmik De Blouw LLP, filed a class action lawsuit against Caremark, L.L.C. alleging the company violated the California Labor Code. The lawsuit against Caremark, L.L.C. is currently pending in the San Bernardino County Superior Court, Case No. CIVSB2227033. To read a copy of the Complaint, please click here.

According to the lawsuit filed, Caremark, L.L.C. allegedly failed to pay employees for all the time they were under the employer's control. This, allegedly, includes the time Plaintiff and other California Class Members had to submit to mandatory COVID-19 screening prior to clocking in for the day. To the extent that the time worked off the clock did not qualify for overtime premium payment, Defendant allegedly failed to pay minimum and overtime wages for the time worked off-the-clock.

Additionally, Defendant's policy allegedly restricted employees from unconstrained walks. The applicable California Wage Order requires employers to provide employees with off-duty rest periods, which the California Supreme Court defined as time during which an employee is relieved from all work related duties and free from employer control. Employers cannot impose controls that prohibit an employee from taking a brief walk - five minutes out, five minutes back.

For more information about the class action lawsuit against Caremark, L.L.C., call (800) 568-8020 to speak to an experienced California employment attorney today.

Blumenthal Nordrehaug Bhowmik De Blouw LLP is a labor law firm with law offices located in San Diego County, Riverside County, Los Angeles County, Sacramento County, Santa Clara County, Orange County, and San Francisco County. The firm has a statewide practice of representing employees on a contingency basis for violations involving unpaid wages, overtime pay, discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, and other types of illegal workplace conduct.

***THIS IS AN ATTORNEY ADVERTISEMENT***
Momenta Leads Tvarit's Series A Funding Manufacturers in Europe are dealing with the dual challenges of the energy transition and carbon neutral goals. Tvarits AI tools enable them to do both, driving precision manufacturing techniques to help maintain their global competitive advantage.

Momenta announced today that it has led the Series A funding round in Tvarit, a leading provider of digital solutions that help metal manufacturers achieve net-zero operations. Tvarits hybrid AI solution combines deep metal processing domain knowledge with data-driven AI to provide continuous, accurate prescriptions and actionable insights to help machine operators achieve higher productivity and lower energy costs.

This is the tenth company receiving investment from Momentas AIoT Ecosystem Fund, powered by Advantech, the world leader in digital industrial solutions. With this financing, Tvarit will scale its software solution and global sales organization.

PROBLEM

The World Economic Forum estimates that industrial waste accounts for half of all waste generated globally. Manufacturing is the largest and fastest-growing contributor to this waste stream, with an estimated 20% of every dollar spent on manufacturing producing waste.

Casting is one of the oldest and most widely used methods for producing complex metal parts. The industry has been slow to transform digitally, so it still largely relies on manual production recipes with little to no optimization. As a result, Tvarit estimates that the industry loses 160 billion annually due to yield loss and the equivalent loss of energy required to produce that waste.

SOLUTION

Tvarit utilizes AI models for prescriptive quality and energy to significantly reduce energy consumption and increase yield in metal casting operations. With over 160 machine learning models to analyze data from machine operator input, machine data, IoT sensors, and 3D design models, the Tvarit solution provides real-time insights into production inefficiencies and losses. The models compare the thermal simulation of a part being produced to a library of parts to find the most appropriate model and settings. Once found, the parameters are initially set and continuously optimized throughout the casting process. This approach has consistently saved Tvarits customers over 18% in energy while improving the production yield.

Manufacturers in Europe are dealing with the dual challenges of the energy transition and carbon neutral goals." Tvarits AI tools enable them to do both, driving precision manufacturing techniques to help maintain their global competitive advantage. Momenta is proud to lead the investment round in a company that is driving such "Industry 5.0" outcomes." said Ken Forster, Momenta's Executive Director.

"Metal manufacturing shop floors are very complex. On state-of-the-art machines, there are 2.4 trillion possible combinations to optimize process parameters. AI is the only way to eliminate waste on the shop floor." said Suhas Patel, CEO of Tvarit GmbH "We are delighted to have Momenta's support to scale our solution and bring it to more manufacturers."

Jerry OGorman, VP at Advantech's IIOT division, stated, "We are delighted to participate in this investment in Tvarit. Tvarit's AI-powered solution has the potential to revolutionize the casting industry by significantly reducing energy consumption while increasing yield per cast part. We see great opportunities to collaborate with Tvarit to help scale up their ability in help metal manufacturers achieve net zero operations."

About Tvarit:

Tvarit is a specialized deep tech company based in Frankfurt, Germany, and a provider of cutting-edge TiA (TVARIT industrial AI) technology with a focus on the manufacturing industry, especially foundries and metalworking companies. Our sole mission is to enable sustainable, zero-waste manufacturing using our technology by almost eliminating energy losses and waste and maximizing machine and equipment availability.For more information, visit https://tvarit.com.

About Advantech:

Advantech has the corporate vision to "Enable an Intelligent Planet." The company is a global leader in IoT, intelligent systems, and embedded platforms. To embrace the trends of IoT, big data, and artificial intelligence, Advantech promotes IoT hardware and software solutions with the industrial IoT platform, Wise-PaaS, to assist business partners and clients in connecting their industrial chains. Advantech is also working with business partners to co-create business ecosystems that accelerate the goal of industrial intelligence. For more information, please visit https://www.advantech.com.

About Momenta:

Momenta is the leading digital industry venture capital and growth firm. We accelerate entrepreneurs and leaders devoted to the digitization of energy, manufacturing, smart spaces, and supply chains. Since 2012, our team of deep industry operators has invested in over 50 entrepreneurs and helped scale over 150 industry leaders via our award-winning executive search and strategic advisory practices. For more information, please visit https://www.momenta.one.


NetActuate grows footprint with new location in Kansas City Our new Kansas City location gives our customers more options for redundancy and failover in the US Midwest, complementing our existing locations in Dallas and Denver, said Mark Mahle, CEO of NetActuate.

NetActuate, a leading provider of global network and infrastructure solutions, has announced the addition of a new data center location in Kansas City, Missouri. This new facility will expand NetActuate's footprint in the United States, providing customers with access to reliable and high-performance infrastructure in the heart of the Midwest.

Our new Kansas City location gives our customers more options for redundancy and failover in the US Midwest, complementing our existing locations in Dallas and Denver, said Mark Mahle, CEO of NetActuate. Kansas City has grown dramatically in recent years, and is a great place for customers looking for an affordable, central US location to add to their footprint.

Kansas City is one of the fastest-growing tech hubs in the United States, with a strong fiber optic infrastructure that provides reliable connectivity to both the East and West Coasts. Kansas Citys central location makes it an ideal location for companies that require low latency and high availability across the country. Kansas City also has a low risk of natural disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes, and tornadoes.

NetActuate's Kansas City data center features redundant power and cooling systems, advanced security protocols, and connectivity to multiple network providers. It also offers direct connectivity to the Kansas City Internet Exchange (KCIX).

Providers can easily deploy and expand their global presence on NetActuate's anycast delivery platform, which is built on one of the largest peered IPv4 and IPv6 networks in the world. With simple and predictable monthly pricing, NetActuate's anycast platform is available in over 40 US and global locations, enabling customers to deploy a truly end-to-end global infrastructure solution without having to manage multiple vendors.

To learn more about NetActuate's services in Kansas City and how they can support your infrastructure needs, please schedule a call with a solution specialist by visiting netactuate.com or calling +1-919-381-5400.

---

About NetActuate

NetActuate is a global SWAT team of engineers that builds infrastructure at scale. Operating the world's second largest global network by number of peers, the NetActuate platform helps providers get closer to their end users  no matter where they are. Available from over 40 locations worldwide, our managed network and infrastructure services simplify and accelerate the global distribution of online applications and SaaS platforms. Learn more today at +1-919-381-5400 or at netactuate.com. To learn more about BGP anycast and how it can help reduce latency across diverse global markets, visit NetActuate's anycast information resource site at anycast.com.


Like the apostle Paul, we too must respond accordingly to our spiritual blindness by seeing and repenting, Adams said. I hope my book will give readers the necessary understanding, because when you cant see the problem, you cannot see solution.

Reading and searching for truth in the Bible led Eldon Adams to the topic of spiritual blindness. Spiritual Blindness is a little know judgement from God (2 Thessalonians 2:10-12 KJV). From research, he believes spiritual blindness in Christs fragmented church explains the current situation in the world: short in love and long in hate. From Adams's perspective, he fears time is overdue for awakening and restoration of faith, leading him to warn fellow Christians in his new book, Cant See the Forest for the Trees: A Warning Message to America.

Readers will learn Adams research on spiritual blindness within the church and its leaders, which he believes is causing the apostasy and turning away of believers. Writing and reflecting on his testimony of transformation back to faith led Adams to seek an understanding of the bible. He credits, the holy spirit, for giving him insight and a need to deliver an urgent message on behalf of God to the world.

I hope that readers will see the need for understanding, nurtured by a new awakening to the seemingly forgotten New Covenant Law, Adams said. The New Covenant Law was one of the principal purposes of Christs coming and is essential to fulfillment of His mission. It is no small undertaking for the fragmented church to unite, after years of blindness and mutual disdain for one another.

Adams hopes his message will help readers focus on false teaching. It underscores how choices made now will have an impact in preparing for the antichrist and the second coming of Jesus.

Like the apostle Paul, we too must respond accordingly to our spiritual blindness by seeing and repenting, Adams said. I hope my book will give readers the necessary understanding, because when you cant see the problem, you cannot see solution.

Cant See the Forest for the Tree: A Warning Message to America

By Eldon Adams

ISBN: 9781664280533 (softcover); 9781664280540 (hardcover); 9781664280526 (electronic)

Available at WestBow Press, Amazon and Barnes & Noble

About the author

Eldon Adams and his wife, Bettie, now in their 70s, were both born into Christian families but became lost to poor faith for most of their married life. It wasnt until Gods purposeful trials came to a place that they realized that success without God is no success. From the encouragement of a pastor and the holy spirit gifted by God, Eldon felt called to deliver his hopeful message to Americas churches, with faithful moral support from Bettie and spiritual guidance from the Holy Spirit. He is a proud father of two sons and a loving husband to his wife and currently resides in Norco, Calif. To learn more, please visit https://www.westbowpress.com/en/bookstore/bookdetails/844135-cant-see-the-forest-for-the-trees.

General Inquiries:

LAVIDGE  Phoenix

Taylor Moralez

tmoralez@lavidge.com
OneAZ Credit Union announces partnership with Kristen Harris This partnership is about more than banking. It's about building trust so that we can properly serve all communities across Arizona.

OneAZ Credit Union remains committed to its mission to improve the lives of all Arizonans. To better support and engage with the African-American and Black community, OneAZ Credit Union has partnered with KAHARRIS & CO. LLC, a consulting firm that helps organizations integrate with communities and develop impactful relationships. Kristen Harris, the founder of KAHARRIS & CO. LLC, is leading this partnership to help OneAZ establish deeper connections with the African-American and Black community in Arizona.

This initiative is intended to build relationships with the African-American community in Arizona to deliver greater access to financial services, including wealth-building opportunities and financial education. OneAZ members play a role in keeping more dollars recirculating in our communities, which can lead to:

Creating more jobs

Investing in local small business growth

Helping families finance major purchases

Building financial security

"KAHARRIS & CO., LLCs partnership with OneAZ reflects a shared commitment to create more inclusive strategies to stimulate and support economic viability and growth among underrepresented communities, in this case, the African-American/Black community. This is a remarkable opportunity that will expand OneAZs footprint in the financial marketplace, ultimately, enhancing the lives of ALL members of the communities we serve, said Kristen Harris.

The African-American and Black community will also benefit from a closer connection with OneAZ by receiving more personalized, relationship-based banking services.

OneAZs vision is to be the preferred financial institution for all Arizonans. That means building relationships and strengthening bonds with community-based partners like Kristen Harris. This partnership is about more than banking. It's about building trust so that we can properly serve all communities across Arizona, said Kim Reedy, President and CEO of OneAZ Credit Union.

About Kristen Harris

Kristen Harris is a visionary leader whose career has centered around providing guidance to corporations managing complex business issues, ranging from directing strategy to investigating fraud, to solving institutional crises to managing millions in assets for shareholders. These experiences have enabled Kristen to successfully lead through the intersection of strategy, finance, and organizational transformations which continue to fortify her leadership portfolio as a trusted advisor and thought leader.

About OneAZ Credit Union

OneAZ Credit Union is a member-owned financial institution serving 160,000 members with 20 branch locations across Arizona. As a credit union with over $3.3 billion in assets, OneAZ is owned by its members, who benefit from better rates, lower fees for service and improved technology. Since 1951, OneAZ has strived to help Arizonans meet their financial needs through a full suite of personal and business banking solutions. OneAZs mission is to truly improve the lives of its members, its associates, and the communities it serves. To learn more, visit OneAZcu.com. Insured by NCUA.


Latina Podcasters CEO Rita Bautista, left, welcomes Natasha Gonzales, host of Norteno 210 podcast which will premiere on April 19 on the Latina Podcasters Network. I want listeners to know what the real deal is as they learn what its like to be this or that person in our beautiful city. With the interviews, I feature all of the good, the bad, the ugly, ups and downs.

As a local businesswoman, registered nurse, and the 2023 River Walk Queen, Natasha Gonzales takes enormous pride in promoting the various local businesses and Mexican culture that infuses flavor and vibrance to her beloved southwestern city of San Antonio.

As the city plans to kick off its popular 10-day Fiesta parade and festival that commemorates the heroes who fought in the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto, Gonzales plans to launch her Norteno 210 podcast only on Latina Podcasters Network, a subsidiary network of Latina Podcasters, a Latina and certified minority-owned and operated global podcast network group.

The podcast will launch on Wednesday, April 19, the day before the Fiesta. Listeners can find this podcast through Apple Podcasts under the Latina Podcasters channel through this link. Gonzales, also a director of video operations for La Prensa Texas Newspaper, will be giving audiences a taste of all the best things and people to discover in San Antonio.

Ive conducted almost 500 interviews with people within the city as well as celebrities, politicians, chefs, business owners, and more, Gonzales said. As a reporter, my interviews were short ranging from 2 minutes to 15 minutes. With this new podcast, I will have more time to tell their stories and have listeners get to know me as well. I want listeners to know what the real deal is as they learn what its like to be this or that person in our beautiful city. With the interviews, I feature all of the good, the bad, the ugly, ups and downs.

Latina Podcasters CEO Rita Bautista first met Gonzales at a Latina summit event last year and was impressed with her accomplishments.

She has a beautiful presence and is an amazing woman, Bautista said. I found her to be very inspiring. Natasha gives an authentic voice to the happenings and people who live in San Antonio.

Bautista described San Antonios culture as being completely different from that of Houston and Austin. I would say you have a predominately heavy Mexican presence. I feel San Antonio is closer to a Mexican city than a U.S. city. You can sense it in how people feel in the pride of their culture.

Gonzales podcast is a good fit for the diverse mix of programming provided by Latina Podcasters.

Were able to find these local celebrities who intimately know the heartbeat and the drive that makes their communities come alive and we can highlight their platform and have them join the network, Bautista said. With Natashas show, she makes us feel very interwoven into the community as she is the authentic voice of San Antonio. This is the beauty that helps us and our listeners understand the authentic cultural voices of these cities.

Gonzales is very excited to be, in a sense, a tour guide for audiences to explore her city.

I like the prospect of growing with this platform that is making huge waves with the Latino community and letting people know that its San Antonios time to shine, she said. We have so much to offer.

Ad buys and sponsorships are available on this podcast and the network groups other podcasts. For more information, visit latinapodcasters.com.

About Latina Podcasters:

Founded in 2019 by Rita Bautista, Latina Podcasters is a Latina and certified minority-owned and operated global podcast network group. Latina Podcasters is changing the landscape of media by streamlining the process for brands and companies to purchase host-read ads and curated segments on podcasts with authentic Latinx voices. Under the groups umbrella are its two subsidiary networks: Latino Pods which features shows geared for a male audience, and Latina Podcasters Network which showcases Latina-hosted programming. Visit latinapodcasters.com for more information.

About Natasha Gonzales:

Natasha Gonzales is a San Antonio native with a passion for her community. Along with being a registered nurse, she is currently working towards her Doctorate in Nursing at the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio in pursuit of becoming a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

Natasha is a mother of three and wife to a Marine Corps veteran. Together they own local businesses, Mira Medals LLC and Military City Air. Along with being a passionate supporter of the River Walk, she has been working diligently in the community to raise awareness of small local businesses with an emphasis on supporting all things local with her platform Norteno 210 on the Latina Podcasters Network. She also works as the director of video operations for La Prensa Texas Newspaper. ###
"The Board of Directors plays a crucial role in driving our philanthropic impact and guiding our work to support the expansion of SCORE's mission to foster vibrant small business communities through mentoring and education," said Patricia Loftus, SCORE Foundation board chair.

The SCORE Foundation, the philanthropic arm of SCORE, the nation's largest network of volunteer, expert business mentors, today announced that two leaders from the business community have been appointed to the Board of Directors. Alonzo Barber, associate general counsel at Microsoft and Megan Malone, senior director with the U.S. Government Engagement team at VISA, officially joined the Board as of April 1st.

In his role at Microsoft, Mr. Barber supports strategic business-to-business partnerships and sales for the U.S. Enterprise Commercial team. Before joining Microsoft in 2013, he served as senior counsel at Viacom/BET Networks in Washington, DC for nine years. After graduating from the Naval Academy, he spent seven years serving as a submarine officer in the Navy. His interest in propelling small business success includes service on numerous boards including chairing the Calvert County, Maryland Economic Development Commission.

In her position at VISA, Ms. Malone leads and shapes the companys small business policy priorities to support small and medium-size enterprises. She has extensive experience working with Congress and the Administration on small business issues and in developing coalitions that support common policy objectives. She previously served as senior legislative advisor at Venable LLP for 10 years. Among her many personal activities supporting small businesses is serving as board vice chair for Black Girl Ventures.

Bios of all Board members are available by clicking here.

Our organization's Board of Directors plays a crucial role in driving our philanthropic impact and guiding our work to support the expansion of SCORE's mission to foster vibrant small business communities through mentoring and education," said Patricia Loftus, SCORE Foundation board chair. The Directors and I are proud to welcome these two incredible leaders as new colleagues to our Board and we look forward to working together to expand our presence in the business community around the country, she commented.

Im excited to see the expansion of the Foundation board with two highly-experienced big company executives that are small business advocates, said Liz Sara, president of the SCORE Foundation. Their perspectives, passion and network of contacts will enable us to continue to increase our impact and financial support for SCOREs highly-regarded programs, she added.

About the SCORE Foundation:

The SCORE Foundation, a 501 c 3, is the philanthropic arm of SCORE, Americas premier source of free and confidential mentoring to small business owners and entrepreneurs. The Foundation funds SCORE education programs, resources and services that foster vibrant small business communities nationwide. To make an individual donation, visit our website at http://www.scoreFoundation.org.
I've had the great fortune of working with industry leading companies and products throughout my career. PlatformQ Health brings such a dedicated and holistic approach to helping physicians, caregivers, and patients get the critical education they need via a best-in-class platform," said Gordon.

PlatformQ Health is pleased to announce that noted industry leader Seth Gordon has joined the organization in a senior business development and management role, supporting pharmaceutical clients seeking digital solutions to engage and educate healthcare providers and patients online. With 25+ years experience crafting award-winning strategies and campaigns, from specialty drugs to blockbusters, including the highly successful statin - Lipitor, Gordon is well positioned to support senior-level industry decision makers looking to optimize digital education for healthcare providers (HCPs) and patients.

Seth has led work streams across all facets of healthcare, with a significant focus on patient, HCP, and market access strategies, says PlatformQ Health CEO Robert Rosenbloom. Additionally, as the child of a surgeon and a nurse, he understands the profound importance of the patient experience. He is the ideal person to guide our growth trajectory as we embark on new digital solution offerings and endeavors.

Having held numerous leadership positions as well as high-level roles on the consulting side, Gordon has helped dozens of large pharma and emerging biotech clients from pre-launch through the product lifecycle. He joins PlatformQ Health from Eversana, where he served as the general manager of their agency services which focused on HCP, patient and market access work streams for the last four years. Prior to Eversana's strategic acquisition, he was a managing partner at The Access Group for 13 years, leading the successful growth of the firm's agency and strategic consulting business into pharma. During his tenure, he managed major agency of record contracts with both large pharma companies and emerging biotechs.

"I am truly excited for this next chapter, said Seth Gordon. I have had the great fortune of working with industry leading companies and products throughout my career. PlatformQ Health brings such a dedicated and holistic approach to helping physicians, caregivers, and patients get the critical education they need via a best-in-class platform.

About PlatformQ Health

PlatformQ Health is the leading provider of interactive digital medical education for clinicians, patients, and caregivers. To improve patient care, PlatformQ Health creates video-first educational modules with premier partners, so learners can better understand conditions, available treatment options, and the latest research. The companys proprietary platform allows participants to engage in real-time discussion with scientific, research, and patient care experts  and the integrated learning solution enables advocates, administrators, health systems and plans, foundations, societies, member organizations, and associations to measure the impact of their education.


Slim enabled us to implement DevOps best practice without burdening our developers with manual vulnerability remediation and container size reduction. Automating container hardening in CI/CD will save us hundreds of developer hours annually.

KUBECON AND CLOUDNATIVECON EUROPESlim.AI, the Boston-based startup focused on optimizing and securing cloud-native applications, today announced the release of its Automated Container Hardening capability, complete with vulnerability reporting and software bills-of-material for hardened images.

Slims continuous supply chain security solution works in both CI/CD processes and Kubernetes implementations. Container Hardening goes beyond generic container slimming to produce a hardened container that is both secured for production and can pass the organizations own tests and policy protocols.

Slims Container Hardening workflow produces hardened containers that meet the demands of DevSecOps by automating what was a manual processremoving work instead of shifting work left, said John Amaral, co-founder and CEO at Slim.AI. This new offering lets organizations integrate Slims container security measures into their own infrastructure, gaining the confidence of their own test suites passing while having the security, visibility, and artifact generation required for modern cloud-native security.

Thin-stretched software organizations are reluctant to pull developers away from producing applications to deal with manual vulnerability remediation and container size reduction. With Slims Container Hardening functionality, organizations no longer need to choose between developer velocity and container security.

*How Container Hardening Works*

Automated Container Hardening follows as a simple five-step process that is built directly into existing CI/CD pipelines. The developer takes any container image and instruments it using the Slim platform or CLI. This instrumented container is run through the organizations test suite, generating observations about the running container. This intelligence is used to build a hardened container, which is up to 30X smaller and considerably more secure. This image is then shipped to production.

*Key Benefits of Automated Container Hardening*



Leverages your own tests, in your own infrastructure: Slims new workflow can be implemented using any test suite and run in CI/CD even Kubernetes. This ensures the hardening process is reliable and robust, and removes manual container security work from engineering and DevOps teams.

Easy to Automate: Slims CLI makes scripting easy, and pre-configured examples exist for most major CI platforms.

Works for any container image: Container Hardening can work on any container image, regardless of base image, language ecosystem, or functionality. It even works on third-party applications whose source code you dont control.

Comprehensive Reporting: While some container hardening approaches require proprietary scanning tools, Slim is designed to work with any 3rd-party scanner or SBOM tool. It generates an SBOM, multi-engine vulnerability report, and additional reports that can be shared with stakeholders and customers, every build.

*Jit Demonstrates the Power of Automated Container Hardening*

Jit, the company codifying product security for developers, is a Slim.AI Design Partner and has been using the new workflow in production. Jit and the Slim.AI team worked together to integrate Slims Automated Container Hardening flow into Jits CI/CD pipeline via GitHub actions and a series of tests.

Using this method, Jit achieved its goal of significantly reducing the size of its containers by 30- to 90%. Jit is now hardening dozens of containers as part of its CI. On some containers, Jit has seen a 100% elimination of critical and high-risk vulnerabilities, saving potentially hundreds of hours of manual vulnerability remediation. Jit is also seeing storage and platform usage cost savings, with boot times halved and a 21% reduction in the average time to scan a container. Learn more in this case study.

Jit aims to provide the best experience for our users in terms of both security and efficiency, said Sharah Peled, VP of operations for Jit. Slim enabled us to implement DevOps best practice without burdening our developers with manual vulnerability remediation and container size reduction. Automating container hardening in CI/CD will save us hundreds of developer hours annually.

This new functionality removes the work of several developers or teams. On average, organizations report a single vulnerability can cost up to two hours of development time to remediate. Reducing vulnerabilities by 80% in a single process lets teams focus on the risks that matter most.

As engineering teams are increasingly tasked with the responsibilities of building and releasing secure softwarewhile many organizations also look to developer velocity to drive business resultsthe right tooling becomes all that more essential, said Kelly Fitzpatrick, senior industry analyst at RedMonk. By integrating container vulnerability reduction and mitigation into the CI/CD processes that teams already use, Slim.AIs automated container hardening is designed to solve this need.

Automated Container Hardening is currently free to try in the Slim Developer Platform. Teams and organizations hardening containers at scale should contact the Slim team to inquire about their Design Partner program, which offers additional features, support and scale.

About Slim.AI

Slim.AI helps developers create, build, deploy and run their cloud-native applications more efficiently and securely. The unique approach used by Slim.AI moves the focus on container optimization upstream in the DevOps lifecycle, giving developers the tools they need to author, manage and ship production-ready containers efficiently and effectively. More information at https://slim.ai and @SlimDevOps.

###
The finalists chosen represent an array of practical, yet innovative idea submissions. Trepps Education Committee and our panel of industry judges are looking forward to seeing the final presentations, said Erin Timko, Trepps Director of Academic and Industry Relations.

Trepp, a leading provider of data, insights, and technology solutions to structured finance, commercial real estate, and banking markets, announced the finalists for its first Innovation Challenge. Trepps Education Segment is partnering with NYU Sterns C.H. Chen Institute for Global Real Estate Finance in hosting the challenge.

The Inaugural Challenge had two dozen submissions and after two competitive rounds, we have our three finalists who will be competing for grant funding up to $15,000.

The finalists of the challenge will be meeting in Trepps headquarters in New York City on Wednesday, April 19th to present their final presentations to a panel of judges and Trepps Education Steering Committee. The finalists include:

1. Jaylin Jones, University of Mississippi

2. Sophie Muller, St. John's University School of Law

3. Supasit Vitooraporn, New York University

Participants were required to focus their innovative solutions, using data or technology, to solve challenges facing the commercial real estate industry in a broad range of categories. The finalists created solutions focusing on 3D commercial printing, using technology to bring transparency to challenges around heirs property, and CRE-Backed Tokens.

The judges will evaluate finalists based on the quality and persuasiveness of the spoken presentation, level of professionalism, quality of responses during the questions and answers portion, plausibility of the financial case, and projected addressable market size.

The finalists chosen represent an array of practical, yet innovative idea submissions. Trepps Education Committee and our panel of industry judges are looking forward to seeing the final presentations, said Erin Timko, Trepps Director of Academic and Industry Relations. The Innovation Challenge has been an incredible initiative to provide students with the resources to make an idea into reality and promote positive change in the industry.

Judges include Dr. Stephen Buschbom, Research Director at Trepp, Dr. Sam Chandan, Director, C.H. Chen Institute for Global Real Estate Finance and Professor of Finance at NYU Stern School of Business, Richard Jones, Partner at Dechert, Annelise Osborne, Head of Institutional at Arca Labs, and Lea Overby, Head of CMBS Research at Barclays. Trepp looks forward to selecting a winner(s) to enable these ideas to come to fruition.

For more information on the Innovation Challenge, please email erin_timko@trepp.com.

Follow @TreppWire and @crenewstweets on Twitter for daily market updates.

About Trepp

Trepp, founded in 1979, is the leading provider of data, insights, and technology solutions to 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, Dallas, 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).
Three engineering students at US Minority-Serving Institutions were competitively selected for the VFS DiversiFlite Scholars program. VFS created the DiversiFlite Scholars program to encourage more engineering/pre-engineering students from underserved demographics to consider careers in vertical flight to meet the future needs of the industry, estimated as an additional 10,000 engineers.

The Vertical Flight Society today announced the selected participants for this years DiversiFlite Scholars program, part of an initiative to promote science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) careers for the future vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aviation workforce. The program selects promising engineering students interested in vertical flight at US-recognized minority-serving institutions (MSI) for an all-expenses-paid trip to the Annual Forum, the worlds largest and longest serving vertical flight technical event. The three winners will be recognized at the Grand Awards Breakfast on Thursday, May 18, 2023, during the Societys 79th Annual Forum & Technology Display in West Palm Beach, Florida, USA.

Mr. Yassin Alallaq is an aeronautical sciences major (with a business administration minor) at Delaware State University, a Historically Black College and University (HBCU). He has been passionate about aviation since he took his first commercial airline flight at age six. In high school, he joined the Air Force Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) and Civil Air Patrol to be able to fly, and earned his private pilots license at Delaware State. A first-generation college student, Yassin is interested in learning more about vertical flight technology and hopes to become a military aviator after college.

Mrs. Felicia Trebian is working towards her Bachelor of Applied Science in Information Technology at Navajo Technical University in Crownpoint, New Mexico, one of 32 federally recognized Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs). A first-generation college student who has gone back to school as an adult, Felicie says she has always been fascinated by powered flight, and is eager to take advantage of the experience at the Forum so she can bring back what she learns to her community as an engineer or teacher.

Ms. Eszter Varga is an aerospace engineering student at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, recognized by the US government as an MSI. Despite endemic discrimination growing up in Budapest (Hungary has the lowest number of females in engineering and STEM in the European Union, 25% in 2017), Eszti is completing an accelerated bachelors/masters degree program and expects that she will soon be the first female Hungarian aerospace engineer. She is also extremely active in helping and inspiring others to pursue careers in STEM and aerospace.

The Annual Forum (http://www.vtol.org/forum) is the largest and longest-running VTOL technical event in the world, with 260 technical papers, 50 invited presentations by leaders in industry, academia and government, and 60+ exhibitors. In addition to the all-expense-paid trip to Forum 79, VFS is also providing each DiversiFlite Scholar with guides to help make the most of this unique opportunity; special small-group meetings with aerospace industry leaders; and the opportunity to make new contacts within the vertical flight technical community.

VFS created the DiversiFlite Scholars program to encourage more engineering/pre-engineering students from underserved demographics to consider careers in vertical flight to meet the future needs of the industry. VFS has estimated that the future vertical workforce will need an additional 10,000 engineers over-and-above the current talent pipeline to meet the requirements of advanced rotorcraft and AAM development plans (see http://www.vtol.org/workforce).

The DiversiFlite initiative aims to help the vertical flight community foster a more inclusive environment that grows stronger through IDEA: Inclusion, Diversity and Equity, with Accessibility considerations for both the workforce and customers. Learn more about the VFS DiversiFlite program at http://www.vtol.org/DiversiFlite, and about the DiversiFlite Scholars program at http://www.vtol.org/scholars.

Founded as the American Helicopter Society in 1943, the Vertical Flight Society is an educational, charitable non-profit for engineers, scientists and others working on vertical flight technology. For 80 years, the Society has been the global leader for technical, educational, safety, advocacy and other important initiatives, bringing together industry, academia and government bodies around the world to tackle the toughest challenges in vertical flight.

VFS can be found as @VTOLsociety on social media: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Mastodon, Twitter, and YouTube

The Vertical Flight Society

2700 Prosperity Avenue, Suite 275

Fairfax, VA 22031 USA

1-703-684-6777  fax: 1-703-739-9279

staff@vtol.org  http://www.vtol.org


The payments industry is going through a significant transformation, with various technological advancements and changes in consumer behavior driving new and innovative payment strategies. At PSFK, our researchers have recently compiled a report that delves into the latest trends in the payments industry, exploring the opportunities and challenges they present for businesses.

What's Driving Payment Innovation?

The payments landscape is rapidly transforming due to several drivers, including the pandemic, growing trust in digital payments, Buy Now Pay Later options, community-powered payments, data personalization, decentralization, and the use of blockchain technology, and NFTs.

These drivers are transforming the way we pay, with a focus on convenience, security, and personalization, and they are also creating new opportunities for businesses to interact with their customers. By understanding these themes, businesses can stay ahead of the curve and provide their customers with an exceptional shopping experience.

New Trends & Approaches In Payments

The world of commerce is changing rapidly, with evolving consumer preferences and technological advancements driving new payment strategies for retailers and brands. These innovative approaches include community-building and shared ownership, conscious consumption and sustainability, digital assets and cryptocurrencies, democratization of financing, unification of finances and rewards, and enhanced security and personalization of transactions. PSFK researchers identified emerging payment strategies, their opportunities, and challenges for businesses in the modern retail landscape.

Building Community Through Fractional Ownership

Fractional ownership models are fostering community building and shared ownership, enabling businesses and individuals to monetize assets while providing consumers with exclusive experiences and products.

L'Oreal's NYX has launched GORJS, the world's first beauty decentralized autonomous organization (DAO), to support and grow the 3D artist community. The FKWME Pass is a limited number of NFT access passes that NYX is offering to the first 1,000 members of the DAO. Participating artists will be able to get financing for their own NFT projects and digital art endeavors and will have access to other active artists in the DAO. NYX's DAO is a means of creating a community centered on beauty and creativity, bringing individuals with similar interests together while providing them with exclusive access to products and experiences.

Conscious Commerce with Bartering Systems

How technology and connected consumer communities are fueling the revival of bartering and the growing movement towards a more sustainable and communal approach to consumption and commerce.

The Tesco Exchange app is a great example of how technology is driving the movement towards more sustainable and communal consumption and commerce. Bartering systems are becoming popular among connected consumer communities who are looking for more sustainable and conscious commerce practices. The Tesco Exchange app connects suppliers who have surplus items with other Tesco suppliers who require those products, reducing waste and excess inventory while providing value to consumers. Through this app, Tesco's suppliers can find innovative ways to lower expenses, cut waste, and continue to provide excellent value to their customers.

Layering Loyalty-Activated Rewards into Digital Transactions

To create a new level of engagement and connection with customers, retailers and brands are rewarding customers not just for their purchases but also their loyalty, using cryptocurrencies, stock, or unique digital assets.

Starbucks' Web3 version of its Starbucks Rewards program allows a small group of waitlist members to participate in interactive journeys and collect polygonal NFTs as journey stamps. These NFTs provide customers with a unique, digital asset as a reward for their loyalty, and they can accumulate Odyssey Points that will grant them access to future benefits and experiences. This example showcases how digital assets like NFTs are being used as a loyalty reward and a new way to engage customers.

Empowering Consumers with Decentralized Finance Options

New technologies and services are giving consumers access to new financing options while crowd-sourced finance and web3 platforms are providing a more accessible and favorable alternative to traditional payment methods.

Unifying Finances with Digital Wallets in Retail

How retailers are offering digital wallets that simplify the shopping experience, provide greater value to shoppers and make it easier for customers to manage their rewards and points.

Amazon's new digital wallet service for sellers provides a convenient way for sellers to hold and transfer their sales proceeds, streamlining the process of managing finances. The service is already available to a select group of small business sellers, demonstrating how digital wallets can be used to provide value and simplify the financial management process for businesses.

Seamless and Personalized Shopping with Biometric Payments

Further adoption of biometric technology is enhancing the security and personalization of the shopping experience, creating greater opportunity for retailers to personalize the shopping experience for customers.

Within stores that partner with Mastercard, consumers will be able to pay their bill by smiling into a camera or waving their hand over a reader. These biometric checkout services can be offered either online or in-store through the merchant or through an identity provider app. Mastercard is pitching this new program as a more hygienic, secure payment method. Plus the service also allows for loyalty program integrations and personalized product recommendations for consumers.

Learn More In The PSFK Report

This report explores new payment trends that are revolutionizing the retail industry, including fractional ownership, bartering systems, value-generating transactions, access to rapid and decentralized finance, digital wallets with expanded features, and seamless payments. These trends offer retailers and brands new opportunities to monetize their assets, engage with their customers, and provide new and innovative ways to finance purchases. By understanding these trends, retailers and brands can stay ahead of the curve and provide their customers with the best possible shopping experience.

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PTI Fact Check: Russian President Vladimir Putin has not embraced Buddhism; AI-generated photo peddled as real with false claim

New Delhi, Apr 17 (Abhinav Gupta / Pratyush Ranjan PTI Fact Check): A Facebook user shared a photo of Vladimir Putin in a monks attire, claiming the Russian President has embraced Buddhism. In its investigation, the PTI Fact Check Desk found that the image shared in the Facebook post was generated using the artificial intelligence (AI) powered tool Midjourney. The edited photo was shared as real on social media with a false claim.

Claim

A Facebook user shared on March 20 a photo of Vladimir Putin in a monks attire and claimed that the Russian President had embraced Buddhism.

Putin became a Buddhist monk, read the photo description.

The post, originally in Khmer  the official language of Cambodia  roughly translated to English as: Congratulations, the world is at peace now.

Here is the link and archive link to the post. Below is a screenshot of the same:

Investigation

The Desk started the investigation with a Google Reverse Image Search on the photo, which led to a Facebook post from Mar 15, where a collage including two shots each of Putin and US President Joe Biden had been shared, in which they were both seen donning traditional monks attire.

The four photos included Putins viral image and were shared on a public group, AI Creatives Thailand. The post has garnered over 2,400 likes and 165 comments so far.

When two escape leaders come to ordain. All photos are not real. Created by AI Midjourney, read the English translation of the post, which is originally in Thai.

Here is the link and archive link to the post. Below are the screenshots of the same:

The Desk translated the post and found that the user wrote: All photos are not real. Created by AI Midjourney.

We then scanned the users profile who shared the photos and found him mentioned as a digital creator.

Below is a screenshot of the users profile:

On further scanning the profile, we found that the user had posted several AI-generated images on the page. Below is a screenshot of the page:

In the next part of the investigation, the Desk went through the posts comment section carrying Putin and Bidens photos in monks attire and noticed the user mentioning that he created them using Midjourney Discord V5.

Below is a screenshot of one such comment where the user confirmed using the AI-powered tool.

Taking a cue from this, the Desk searched for photos of Putin in monks attire on the Discord channel of the AI-image generation tool of Midjourney and found images similar to the viral photo.

Below is a screenshot of the same:

The Desk subsequently concluded that an AI-generated image of Russian President Vladimir Putin in a monks attire had been shared as real with a false claim.

Claim

Russian President Vladimir Putin has embraced Buddhism.

Fact

AI-generated photos of Putin in Buddhist monks attire were peddled as real on social media.

Conclusion

A Facebook user shared a photo of Vladimir Putin in a monks attire and claimed that the Russian President had embraced Buddhism. The Desk found in its investigation that the picture had been generated using the AI-powered tool Midjourney. The AI-generated image had been shared as real on social media with a false claim.

You can contact PTI Fact Check on WhatsApp Number +91-8130503759 and share any claim or social media post you think is essential to fact-check and want us to verify.
In the month of Ramadan, as the scorching sun beats down on the vibrant city of Doha, Lifestyle Asia India, in the company of the gorgeous cover star Parineeti Chopra, embarked on an exciting journey to explore the city's unique charm. While the fasting hours may see a lull in the city's activity, the glistening streets lose none of their allure.

As the sun sets, the city comes alive with the break of dawn and the joyous celebration of Iftar. The capital of Qatar takes on an extraordinary character of calmness and peace during this holy month, transforming into a cultural oasis where tradition and modernity intertwine in perfect harmony.

Parineeti Chopra, accompanied by Lifestyle Asia, searched into Doha's cultural ambiance as they explored the city's top attractions. The city, known for its luxury and extravagance, is a fusion of stunning architectural marvels, heritage sites, natural wonders, and, above all, a rich cultural heritage.

Parineeti Chopra, an experienced traveler, was the ideal choice to discover the treasures of Doha. She looked exquisite in her stylish outfits, and her beauty and poise complemented the stunning Doha landmarks in the backdrop. Her team had the pleasure of flying comfortably in Qatar Airways' Q-suite and was welcomed by a breathtaking sunrise upon arrival in Doha.

Lifestyle Asia India celebrated the spirit of wanderlust with the beautiful and adventurous Parineeti Chopra, who perfectly embodies it, and was glad to present Parineeti Chopra on the cover of the April issue of Lifestyle Asia India, radiating elegance and beauty.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. Production of oil and other liquid hydrocarbons in Turkmenistan in 2023 will average 0.27 million barrels per day, Trend reports with reference to the forecast of the US Energy Information Administration (EIA).

According to the information, forecasts for oil production in the country remained unchanged compared to the previous report.

The annual 2024 oil and other liquid production in Turkmenistan is also forecast to be at 0.27 million barrels a day, the report said.

Furthermore, the EIA also noted that Turkmenistans oil extraction in 2022 amounted to 0.26 million barrels per day.

In general, according to the available data, Turkmenistan produced more than 8.9 million tons of oil in 2021, which is 7.3 percent less than in 2020 (9.6 million tons).

According to the international energy statistics, the oil reserves in Turkmenistan amount to 82 million tons. The country exports its oil mainly by sea to the ports of Baku (Azerbaijan), Neka (Iran) and Makhachkala (Russia). Railway oil supplies to Afghanistan are carried out in insignificant volumes.
On Saturday 15 April, Tailte Tours operated the Suir Lee Knot' railtour from Cork to Waterford via Carrick-on-Suir  and declared it a Suir-fire' success!

The tour, which was announced in February, involved the rare treat of travelling on a 1993-built Tokyu Car 2600 class railcar set north of Mallow. The run took passengers from Cork on the banks of the River Lee to Waterford on the banks of the River Suir, via the knot' of lines at Limerick Junction.

This was a rare visit of this class into Waterford, and included an extended stop at Carrick-on-Suir, restoration base of the Irish Traction Group (ITG).

Here, the ITG's volunteers had worked long into the night preparing their 1956-built C Class locomotive No.226 to look its best for visitors. It was the first public appearance of the Metropolitan Vickers-built diesel since its restoration to running order.

Features of the tour included a run through Tipperary loop, which has no scheduled trains. There was also an unusual reverse move out of the south-facing bay platforms in Cork before heading north around the station via the former avoiding line used by freight trains.

Passengers also took part in the on-board raffle, key prize of which was a set of Magnesite wagons kindly donated by sponsor Irish Railway Models. (The prototype vehicles operated over the very line over which the tour traversed).

Set up just last year and named after one of Ireland's largest steam locomotives, Tailte Tours is a voluntary-led committee that seeks to raise awareness for Ireland's smaller railway heritage groups.

They aim to do this through the organisation of railtours and other railway-themed events throughout Ireland. Tailte Tours offers a discount to RailAdvent Plus members.

Niall Kelly, Marketing Officer for Tailte Tours committee, said: Despite being Ireland's second city, or the Real Capital' as its denizens refer to it, railtours starting in Cork are few and far between and we felt it was time to address that. Uptake on the tour from local enthusiasts and daytrippers alike far exceeded our expectations  we'll definitely try to run more out of Cork as our resources permit.

We're very grateful for the enormous amount of work put in behind the scenes both in Iarnrod Eireann staff and by our fellow volunteers in the Irish Traction Group who burnt plenty of midnight oil into getting 226 ready for our passengers. Hats off to all!.
The war in Ukraine has sparked a puzzling development in U.S. national security thinking. At the same time as U.S.-European cooperation has surged, an influential group of American scholars, analysts, and commentators have begun pressing the United States to prepare to radically scale back its commitment to Europe. The basic idea is not new: restraint-oriented realists such as Emma Ashford, John Mearsheimer, Barry Posen, and Stephen Walt have long called for the United States to rethink its security posture in Europe.

Now, however, they have been joined by an influential band of China hawks, led by former Pentagon official Elbridge Colby, who argue that the United States must curb its European commitments. The main contest, this group believes, is in the Indo-Pacific, against Chinaand Washington must focus all its resources on that confrontation.

The specific wishes of these realists and hawks are often vague, combining ill-defined cuts to U.S. forces in Europe with demands for Europe to step up its own security, although without necessarily calling on Washington to ditch NATO outright. But if the United States is to reduce its obligations to NATO, to go all-in on the China threat, as they argue it should, it will have to slash its forces in Europe and at least raise the possibility of pulling away from the alliance.

On a conceptual level, this idea is bold and thought-provoking.

The remainder of this commentary is available at foreignaffairs.com

Michael J. Mazarr is a senior political scientist at the nonprofit, nonpartisan RAND Corporation.

This commentary originally appeared on Foreign Affairs on April 17, 2023. Commentary gives RAND researchers a platform to convey insights based on their professional expertise and often on their peer-reviewed research and analysis.
A new relationship with Zinc Medias Belfast-based factual production company Tern TV will see a new consumer-health format, Dr Xands Con or Cure, added to Orange Smartys slate. The 10 x 45 programme, originally commissioned by BBC One Daytime, follows a TV doctor and celebrity journalist as they scour the country to expose medical fraud, explode false health news and explain topical health issues. Presenting from a mobile health hub, the pair flag up the dangers of health fads, offer practical advice and answer viewers medical questions. They also enlist the help of specialist experts to help audiences separate fact from fairy tale when it comes to health.The format of another BBC One show, Scarletts Driving School (10 x 30 - pictured), will also available for the first time at MIPTV. The light-hearted series gets behind the wheel with struggling learner drivers and the long-suffering loved ones who are attempting to teach them. In an effort to break the cycle of failure, the show sends both learner and loved one to a unique driving school, where a top professional instructor puts both parties through an intensive crash course  no pun intended. The original BBC series featured media personality Scarlett Moffat who, thanks to the show, finally passed her driving test on the 14th attempt.Billed as group dating meets travelogue, BBC Threes youth-skewing format Squad Dates, is inspired by the trend for two sets of single friends to get together for a weekend of fun and friendship  with a possible happy ending in the form of a new relationship. From evenings in the hot tub through busy days spent exploring a new city to glammed-up dinner dates, Squad Dates is a fun and flirty fusion of the dating and travel genres.The deals were brokered by Orange Smarty head of acquisitions Stella Briley, overseen by CEO Karen Young and head of formats Chloe Deadman. Commenting on the new deals, Young said: Orange Smarty specialises in formats that have the potential to work on a long-term repeatable basis, in any territory and across demographics. The old formats rule book has been ripped up and theres now a massive demand for talent-driven factual formats that can help build brand identities and can bend and flex to suit any platform, budget or territory.Orange Smartys MIPTV format line-up also features The Flower Barn from Cardiff-based indie Wildflame Productions. The new six-part series for SC4 shares moments in peoples lives as it explores what motivates us to say it with flowers. Two talented florists are then challenged to creating stunning floral presentations, put together with creativity, flair  and a lot of love.
Through executive orders and budget requests, the Biden administration has sought to

embed

diversity, equity, and inclusion principles across the entirety of the federal government  and in turn to

touch the lives

of every American. Now members of

the Republican House majority,

who see this whole-of-government effort as a woke assault on America and its core values, are working to combat it using the power of the purse.
How soon Americans forget. Or its possible all-too-many Americans are too young to have forgotten just how backwards the former Soviet Union was. While endless lines for subpar everything were the norm, theres a case to be made that basic services vivified the stupidity of communism the most.

Peter Osnos worked as the Washington Posts Moscow bureau chief during the Soviet era, and the appearance-focused dandy reports in his memoirs that he actually tasked his wife with cutting hair his during the Moscow stint. Get it? A trip to the cobbler for a re-soling resulted in shoes returned to Osnos with nails sticking out, but no bottoms. In his own Moscow memoir, the late Geoffrey Bocca wrote of a visit to a restaurant during which he asked for Chicken Kiev, only to be told by an insolent waiter that he would be getting something else entireley. No arguing!

Such is life where theres no incentive or interest in getting to know ones customers. While good and great businesses work feverishly to know what their clientele wants and when it wants it, all while searching for ways to lead that same clientele, in communist countries theres no reward for achieving repeat business. Whats the point if theres little of value to provide as is, after which whats the point if equality is decreed at the point of a gun?

Its something for Montana legislators to think about in the aftermath of their vote to completely ban TikTok. Word was and is that Montana is ripe for a ban simply because Montanans are already protective of their personal privacy. What a non sequitur.

The simple truth is that businesses closely observing their customers are as old as business is, and for obvious reasons: they cant survive without repeat customers. So they spy in order to anticipate needs that they hope to meet. Yet Montanas legislators want to protect their citizenry from profit-motivated companies like TikTok for the latter having the temerity to supply an abundance of what TikTok usage signals its users are looking for? Its all so backwards.

To which some will respond that TikTok is a company of Chinese origin, and because it is there exists the possibility that TikTok will share what it learns about its American users with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Ok, but as we learned from the old Soviet Union, and for that matter the old China, information about American likes would be of little value to those who envision the imposition of command-and-control. As their use of force indicates, the last thing on their mind is customer service.

Which is why the second what-if critique of TikTok is so baseless: supposedly the CCP will use information gleaned to manipulate American thought in favor of China, against the U.S., or both. Its hard to take seriously. And TikToks staggering, 150 million American user success explains why. The company succeeds precisely because its supplying that which brings its American users back, not CCP-curated prograganda. Talk about a business killer. If TikTok were what Montana legislators pretend it to be, a ban would be superfluous. And realistically worse than superfluous.

Indeed, the ban brings to mind a surprisingly useful observation by the U.S.s 38th president in Gerald Ford that a government big enough to give you everything you want, is a government big enough to take away everything you have. In Montana, legislators are striving to protect the people from the CCP while mimicking the doings of the CCP. Ford's admonition about government growth is a certain sign that the TikTok ban won't end wellfor Montanans.
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The Czech delegation headed by Petr Fiala will visit Vietnam, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Singapore, Uzbekistan and the Philippines, Trend reports citing Kun.

Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala said one of the goals of his visit to Asia, which begins on Saturday, is to boost ties with six countries in the region to counterbalance China's dominance in trade markets. On the trip, the head of the Czech government is accompanied by a representative delegation of business circles of the republic.

We will visit states that are interested in cooperation with the Czech Republic. These are states that, to a certain extent, can create a counterbalance to Chinese dominance [in the markets], which is obvious and from which we, not only the Czech Republic, but the whole of Europe, must get rid of. We must create alternative markets for ourselves, he said.

According to him, there are significant opportunities for Czech companies in these countries, and partners from these states are very interested in expanding trade and economic contacts with the Czech Republic.

The working program of the visit is designed for seven days. The first stop of the Czech delegation will be Manila.
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The Los Angeles Unified School District and union officials are tentatively in agreement on a new contract that would give a significant pay raise to teachers, nurses, counselors and other educational staff
On Sunday, at approximately 12:40 a.m., the Athens-Clarke County Police Department responded to a shooting that occurred at Coleridge Court, according to an ACCPD press release.

A 29-year-old female was shot and received non-life-threatening injuries. EMS transported the woman to a local hospital, the report said.
India's overall imports from Taiwan during April-February rose by 34 per cent to $7.5 billion.

Kindly note the image has only been published for representational purposes. Photograph: Kim Kyung-Hoon/Reuters

As relations between the two neighbours remain strained, India seems to be working to reduce its dependence on China for telecom instruments and electronic components by increasing its imports from Taiwan.

During April-February 2022-2023, Taiwan's share in India's import of telecom instruments jumped to 9 per cent from 2.3 per cent in the same period a year earlier.

Though China continued to be India's major source of high-tech imports, its share declined from 45.8 per cent to 43 per cent during this period.

India's telecom instrument imports from China increased by just 0.8 per cent, while that from Taiwan jumped 57 per cent.

Taiwan's growing share was significant also because India's overall telecom instrument imports rose by 7.5 per cent during the period.

Similarly, Taiwan's share in India's import of electronic components during April-January doubled to 6 per cent year-on-year, while China's reduced by almost 14 percentage points to 32.8 per cent.

In value terms, India's import of electronic components from China during the period contracted 29 per cent to $7.4 billion, while that from Taiwan rose to $1.3 billion.

Photograph: Toru Hanai/Reuters

India's overall imports from Taiwan during April-February rose by 34 per cent to $7.5 billion.

Even as India's total imports from China grew 6.2 per cent, its share in India's overall imports declined to 13.8 per cent from 15.5 per cent during the same period a year earlier.

Amid pressure on India's merchandise exports due to global headwinds, the central government has been focusing on curbing non-essential imports and import substitutions.

India's growing reliance on Taiwan for high-tech imports may have been fuelled by border tensions with China and frequent supply disruptions.

Significantly, the two key import items from Taiwan during April-February were mobile display screens ($949 million) and monolithic integrated circuits or chips ($853 million).

However, India has maintained its 'One China' policy despite provocations from China, and it has been restrained in its statements on Taiwan.

The ministry of external affairs told Parliament in February: 'The Government of India's policy on Taiwan is clear and consistent. The government facilitates and promotes interactions in areas of trade, investment, tourism, culture, education and other such people-to-people exchanges.'

The government has also denied India's engagement with Taiwan for any help in areas related to the roll-out of 5G services.

'Taiwanese companies are, however, participating in various programmes launched by the Government of India to boost electronics manufacturing and the semiconductor ecosystem in India,' the commerce and industry ministry informed the Rajya Sabha.

Feature Presentation: Rajesh Alva/Rediff.com
Particularly the small and independent Web sites that have developed a following in the recent past because the mainstream is seen as totally aligned with the government, points out Aakar Patel.

On 6 April 2023, the Union government passed new rules, allowing it to identify what it thought was any fake or false or misleading content online related to the government.

This would be done by a 'fact check unit' set up by the government which would send takedown orders to social media platforms.

This determination that news was false or misleading would be solely at the government's discretion.

The rules would give the government authority to force social media firms to take down such content or face action.

The Internet Freedom Foundation, which is an Indian digital liberties organisation, said that 'assigning any unit of the government such arbitrary, overbroad powers to determine the authenticity of online content bypasses the principles of natural justice, thus making it an unconstitutional exercise. The notification of these amended rules cement the chilling effect on the fundamental right to speech and expression, particularly on news publishers, journalists, activists.'

The Editors Guild of India said it was 'deeply disturbed' and that there was not even a mention of 'what will be the governing mechanism for such a fact-checking unit', what the judicial oversight, if any, was, or the right to appeal.

'All of this is against principles of natural justice and akin to censorship,' it added.

The target is digital media, particularly the small and independent Web sites that have developed a following in the recent past because the mainstream is seen as totally aligned with the government.

The fact that the government is going after them so specifically also shows that their work is effective.

The new rules also arrive with a particular background. For the last few years, India has led the world in Internet shutdowns.

India had 6 shutdowns in 2014, 14 in 2015, 31 in 2016, 79 in 2017, 134 in 2018, 121 in 2019, 109 in 2020, 106 in 2021 and 84 in 2022.

To put this in perspective of 213 total global shutdowns in 2019, India accounted for 56 per cent (12 times more than the next nation, Venezuela).

Of 155 global shutdowns in 2020, India accounted for 70 per cent, denying people -- patients access to tele medicine and children access to online learning during the pandemic.

India imposed 17 months of Internet blockade on Kashmiris, and then targeted the farmers' protests outside Delhi with shutdowns but this has become common elsewhere also.

Many people from Punjab currently have had their social media handles 'withheld' by the Indian government and even the BBC's Punjabi service was halted for some time.

What is happening is unnatural in a democracy where freedom of expression is a fundamental right, meaning a right that enjoys a high degree of protection from encroachment by the State.

In New India, the constant targeting of dissent through new and innovative mechanisms, the misuse of criminal law and the fear of mob violence have curbed free speech all but totally.

Where law, process and mob have not visited, self-censorship has.

One feels as an individual that saying certain things will get one into trouble.

In the age of social media what these things are become apparent rather quickly because the pushback is immediate.

One is aware of things that one believes are true but saying even those things will get one into trouble.

What sort of trouble? The filing of criminal cases, not just by the State, but also individuals who register FIRs; abuse and hatred on social and other media; violence by mobs that are not controllable by the State, even if it wants to control them.

It is best to avoid the problem by not saying what one feels, even if it is truth.

Visible action by the State, especially harsh and intimidatory action, against critics and dissenters acts as a deterrent.

It stops others from saying the same thing, and it gives pause to those who want to say something, but are now concerned about the fallout against them.

In India, the mainstream media has for the most part not required intimidation.

The reliance on government for licences and advertising, the popularity of the government's majoritarian ideology and the ownership of large swathes of media by corporate interests has meant that it has toed the line quite enthusiastically.

Indian users of social media have not followed suit and that is why this problem has required attention, which has come through the new IT rules.

What used to be a dozen or so takedown notices to Twitter annually from the government before 2014 now number in the thousands.

When fact-checkers post hate speeches by people, including those inside or associated with the ruling party, it is the fact-checker's post that gets taken down.

India has a problem with being told that it is falling on global indices that measure freedom.

The usual response is that those compiling the index are biased or ignorant or following some sort of agenda.

Honest engagement with the data would show that what they are saying is indeed true because every day brings news of further restriction.

It is important that this be written about and discussed because armed with the new rules, the government is set to ratchet things up further.

In no real democracy does the government empower itself to determine what is fact and what is misleading when it comes to reporting on the government.

Aakar Patel is a columnist and writer and you can read Aakar's earlier columns here.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com
'Imagine for a soldier -- first you conquer territory after fighting a fierce battle, suffer casualties and then you are ordered to come back to your side of the International Border in India.'

IMAGE: Major Israr Khan being promoted as Lieutenant Colonel in Jalandhar in 1983. In June 1984, he led the Indian Army into the Golden Temple during Operation Blue Star. Photograph: Kind courtesy Brigadier Israr Rahim Khan

Brigadier Israr Rahim Khan received the Kirti Chakra for leading his battalion of 10 Guards, the first troops to enter the Golden Temple to flush out terrorists that had converted the holy shrine into a fortress during Operation Blue Star in June 1984.

"It was the most dangerous and most difficult operation conducted by any army in the world," says the retired officer who served the Indian Army with distinction for four decades and saw action in the 1965 and 1971 wars with Pakistan.

A proud infantryman and an exceptional commander, he is remembered as a legend by his battalion.

The son of an agriculture scientist, his father was among the first Indians to get a PhD in agronomy from the United States in 1945.

Going against the wishes of his father who wanted him to go for higher studies in the US, Israr Khan went where his heart took him -- the Indian Army.

"It has been the greatest honour of my life. It was about soldiering and loyalty to my men and country," Brigadier Khan says in the concluding part of an interview with Rediff.com's Archana Masih looking back at his extraordinary journey as a soldier.

You were a child during the Partition of India, what were those days like? How did your journey as a soldier begin?

My father was among the first Indians to go to the United States for higher studies in 1945. When India got freedom, he was pursuing a PhD in Madison, Wisconsin.

While he was away, my mother and I lived with my grandfather in Khurja, Bulandshahr in Western Uttar Pradesh. Zamindari had yet not been abolished at that time and my grandfather was the biggest landlord in the region. He had a big haveli, which still remains with the family.

I was about 5 years old -- and a child of Partition days.

During the Partition of India, the mass movement of people between India and newly formed Pakistan had unleashed bloody massacres and riots in the country. My grandfather was afraid to send me out of Khurja to attend school, so he took me to a local Muslim school in the gully called Mohalla school.

I sat on a gunny bag with holes and took a wooden plank and chalk made of multani mitti to write. These are the only two things I carried to school. This is the humble beginning of my schooling. [Laughs gently] Isn't it fascinating?

When did your father return to India? How did he contribute to newly independent India?

My father returned to India in 1948 after finishing his PhD and post-doctoral research. He travelled in America, Canada and took a long trip to Europe.

On his return to India, he joined the Indian Agriculture Research Institute in Pusa as a scientist. It was the biggest agriculture institute in Asia.

He played a role in the Green Revolution under Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri. He worked with the Indian farmers so that scientific knowledge could be practised by them in their fields. There were several model farm villages in Delhi, UP and elsewhere in India.

The institute provided British-era bungalows as accommodation, so my mother and I moved to Delhi to stay with my father.

How did you settle in from a mohalla school in a village to life in the national capital?

I had no knowledge of English. I could not get admission in Delhi Public School, Mathura Road which had just started and was still operating out of a tent. The headmistress took me for a test and since I had hardly had any education and could not speak English, she said I won't be able to pull along with the other children.

Imagine the psychological impact on me!

My father worked hard and employed English tutors and I was brought on par with other kids my age. He then took me to the Harcourt Butler School. The Principal, Dr S Lal, was a doctor of literature from London. He admitted me and then I never looked back.

Photograph: Seema Pant for Rediff.com IMAGE: Brigadier Israr Khan at his home with an old gramaphone that still plays old records. The home also has clocks with pendulums that chime on the hour.

How did you join the army considering your father was a scientist and you did not come from a military family?

I did well at school and my inspiration were students in Harcourt Butler who used to go in large numbers to the National Defence Academy after Class X. That motivation carried me through.

My father did not think of the army as a career for me. His other brothers were in the Indian Postal Service and Indian Police.

He wanted me to study engineering and then go to America for higher studies. I completed a BSc from Aligarh Muslim University and then joined the Bachelors in Engineering course because that was the requirement for BE.

My father had chalked a plan for me. I had no say in the matter.

After BSc, my mind was still with the Army and I applied for the UPSC exam without telling my parents. I cleared the exam and was called for the Service Selection Board interview which is held over 5 days.

I was in Aligarh and had to go to Allahabad for the SSB. I did not know how to break the news to my parents. I came to Delhi and meekly told my mother.

My mother said your father won't allow it, but agreed to break the news and convince him.

My father thought it was madness to throw away the opportunity of studying in America for a career in the army, but my mind was set.

He did not believe that I had chosen the right path and took me to meet his friend Harish Sareen, an ICS officer who was the defence secretary. We went to South Block to meet him at the ministry of defence. My father told him that he wanted me to be a scientist, but I was keen about the fauj.

Mr Sareen told him, 'Khansahab, the army is as good a career as a scientist. Don't stop the boy.'

My father then allowed me to go for the SSB. I got selected and became a commissioned officer in 1964.

Soon after you joined the army, the 1965 War with Pakistan broke out.

I was commissioned in the Brigade of the Guards and was posted to 10 Guards that had just been raised.

My unit was in Sikkim and I had marching orders to go to Punjab in an inter-unit transfer. I went with the advance party to take over from the last battalion and make arrangements before the rest of the unit joined in.

Major Ashok Handoo was the second in command who later became army commander. Major Handoo, along with two other officers and myself, went to take over from the battalion posted in Punjab and lo and behold, the sorties by the Pakistan air force began and the war began.

We were attached to the infantry battalion that we were to replace as they were to go to Sikkim and my battalion was to come to Abohar, Punjab.

Abohar and Fazilka saw intense fighting in Punjab. Subsequently, we went to Sikkim by train to reinforce our battalion.

So in midst of the war after having fought for 10 days -- we 4 officers and a party of 100 men went back to Sikkim and merged with our battalion to face any onslaught that side.

IMAGE: Brigadier Israr Khan receives the Kirti Chakra from then President Zail Singh in 1985. Photograph: Brigadier Israr Khan

What action did you see the 1971 War with Pakistan?

In 1971, I was instructor at Infantry School, Mhow, when the war broke out. Although the whole school was closed and people went back to their units to fight the war, a small nucleus was retained for training requirements.

The godfather or colonel of my regiment was Lieutenant General N C Rawlley. I had served as his ADC for two years as a young captain before being posted to Mhow.

I wrote to Gen Rawlley who was commander XI corps and had moved ahead in the battlefield. I told him that I was itching to return to 10 Guards which was moving to Gurdaspur and did not want to be away from the battlefield.

He was very pleased. At that time of war there used to be a free postal service for the armed forces. Gen Rawlley wrote me a letter on the free postal letter. I still have that letter. It is a treasure that I keep carefully.

[Gets up to look for the letter and then reads it aloud. The letter is dated December 2, 1971]

'My dear Israr,

I apologise for using this paper. Lt Col Wanchoo had already asked me if I could get you back to 10 Guards [my CO at that time].

I wrote to Army HQ and they agreed. I assume you have already got your posting orders.

The chief of army staff told me that the other Guard battalions are doing well in the East. I have no doubt they will do equally well in the west.

You are going back to the 10th at a critical time. I am very proud of you that you yourself volunteered to rejoin your battalion.

When I asked for you to go back, I was sure you would want it. I have every confidence that you will do well in battle.

Yours sincerely,

Naveen'

My posting came in the next few days. I packed my bags. I had to change trains in Delhi, but I didn't even meet my parents and went ahead to Gurdaspur.

When I reached, my CO Colonel Wanchoo was waiting for me and said, 'Israr I'm so glad you have come'. He made me the adjutant of the battalion. [Adjutant is the nerve centre of an infantry battalion.]

Photograph: Seema Pant for Rediff.com IMAGE: The letter Lieutenant General Naveen Rawlley wrote Major Israr Khan during the 1971 War with Pakistan.

Where did you fight in the 1971 War?

We were moving to a place called Nabipur which was close to the Ravi river. We had to cross the Ravi into Pakistan and launch an attack against Pakistani positions.

I got into my battle gear and we got battle ready. Our battalion moved the same night to the border. As adjutant I had gone ahead to select the points where we could cross the river. I selected crossing points where the water level was shallow.

We had ropes on either side of the bank so that our 1,000-strong battalion could hold on to and cross over. The water was between waist to chest level at few places.

I had selected a narrow part of the river where it would not have taken a lot of time to cross over because the Pakistanis could have fired at us on the river itself and we would have drowned.

So you crossed into Pakistan in the dead of night?

We crossed over into Pakistan at 2 am. I was a young major at that time.

Our boots were full of water, socks drenched and uniforms were wet up to the chest. As we walked, intermittent fire came upon us from Pakistani posts.

We progressed our advance to make contact with the enemy and fought the Pakistanis -- post after post -- in the Shakargarh sector which was a tehsil in the Sialkot district of Pakistan.

We kept clearing the posts. The Pakistanis had laid minefields to stop us from advancing -- and those minefields were covered by weaponfire to thwart our advance.

We had to cross those minefields and could have been blown up, but we had to clear a narrow path through the mines to advance further.

In the Shakargarh sector, we captured a big chunk of Pakistani territory, our advance could have been faster and wider, but the scattered minefields retarded our speed.

We advanced to a point where the Pakistan army was deployed in large numbers on the outskirts of Shakargarh town.

The time to attack was at night and that was to be the main battle.

Photograph: Seema Pant for Rediff.com IMAGE: Most of the articles in the brigadier's home are over 100 years old and were part of the family's ancestral haveli in Western UP.

How fierce was the battle?

Three battalions including mine had to launch the attack. We had to cross a nala to get close to Shakargarh. It was a fierce battle; the Pakistanis had a large entrenched deployment.

Many men lost their lives especially from the Grenadiers battalion that was ahead of us. Some were taken Prisoners of War.

10 Guards was tasked to lead the next phase of the attack, but a cease fire was declared. We stayed where we were and by that time we had taken a large chunk of Pakistani territory -- about 15 kms of prime land of Punjab in Pakistan.

The Pakistani villages were vacated, only the old and infirm remained. The houses were kuccha houses.

We remained there living in the fields till the Shimla Agreement was signed [July 1972]. Imagine for a soldier -- first you conquer territory after fighting a fierce battle, suffer casualties and then you are ordered to come back to your side of the International Border in India.

After crossing the Ravi, we could change our wet socks and boots only after a week. There was no time because we were fighting a war and our objective was to advance and contact the enemy.

I got to see the Shakargarh tehsil from a distance. I believe it is now a flourishing tehsil of Sialkot.

We came back to Gurdaspur and remained with the battalion.

After the war, I served in Assam because insurgency in the North East was on the rise. I was posted to Kashmir, facing the Pakistani posts in Poonch district. I remember the Divisional Commissioner of Poonch was Wajahat Habibullah, a young IAS officer who was the son of Major General Enayat Habibullah.

I was posted to Army HQ. My next major task was to command troops in Operation Blue Star.

Read Brigadier Israr Khan's account of Operation Blue Star here:

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com
'Khalistan would have been in existence today, but for the army.'

IMAGE: Then Lieutenant Colonel Israr Khan, extreme right, back, with General Arun S Vaidya, Mahavir Chakra and Bar, then chief of the army staff, third from right, forefront, flanked by then Lieutenant General Krishnaswamy Sundarji, second from right, and then Major General Kuldip Singh Brar, fourth from right. Photograph: Kind courtesy Brigadier Israr Rahim Khan

As a massive manhunt has been launched to arrest pro-Khalistan radical Amritpal Singh in Punjab, the situation brings back memories of the rise of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, the militant who subsequently moved into the Golden Temple with armed terrorists in December 1983.

The Indian Army launched Operation Blue Star six months later to flush out the terrorists.

"We were in a built-up area that extended from the basement to the 2nd-3rd floor. There were rooms after rooms, alleys after alley -- everything was fortified with weapons," recalls retired Brigadier Israr Rahim Khan, commanding officer, 10 Guards, which was the first to enter the Golden Temple.

"We were told to use minimum force and not fire towards the Harmandir Sahib and Akal Takht. We had to take off our army boots and wear rubber canvas shoes. We did whatever we could to maintain the sanctity, but the temple had already been defiled by them (the terrorists)."

The 10 Guards batallion lost 19 men; 53 wounded, some maimed for life. The bullets hit them mostly below the knees because the terrorists were positioned under the staircase and in the basement.

The soldiers tumbled down the stairs, bleeding with bullet injuries. The electricity had been disconnected, there was not even a flicker of light.

"The lives that I lost still haunts me," says the decorated officer in an informative must-read interview with Rediff.com's Archana Masih which serves a caution that we do not repeat that bloody chapter of history again.

Every year when June 5 comes near are you reminded of the battle inside the Golden Temple to flush out the terrorists? Do you think of those days?

I think of my men. I was commissioned into the 10th Battalion of the Guards in 1964. I had been with the troops for 20 years. They knew me through and through; my strengths and weaknesses and I knew theirs -- that is the rapport of an infantry battalion.

19 of my 10 Guards men were killed, 54 were wounded -- some maimed for life. The bullets hit them mostly below the knees because the terrorists were positioned under the staircase and in the basement.

The soldiers tumbled down the stairs, bleeding with bullet injuries. The electricity had been disconnected, there was no water and it was night time. One could not make out one hand from the other, there was not even a flicker of light.

I remember the men I lost and the collateral damage that was known would be incurred in the operation.

The lives that I lost still haunts me.

You fought in west Pakistan during the 1971 War against the Pakistan army. Was Operation Blue Star the most difficult military action in your military career?

Yes, most dangerous and most difficult. It was not a set piece attack that we were trained for. The army is trained to fight the enemy and the two listed enemies are Pakistan and China, but here we were in a built-up area that extended from the basement to the 2nd-3rd floors.

There were rooms after rooms, alleys after alleys -- everything was fortified with weapons. I don't think there is any other example of such a fierce battle inside a built-up area by any army of the world.

And you had to complete the operation by morning at any cost, come what may?

We were pitched against time. The temple had to be cleared by morning otherwise the whole of Punjab would have gheraoed and perhaps massacred us.

That is why tanks had to be brought in. It was basically to help the Special Frontier Force and para commandos to finish their task.

The Sikhs are still hurt because their holiest place was attacked by tanks. There is a section of people who nurse these thoughts, but this attack was inevitable.

The instructions of the General Officer Commanding Major General Brar was to use minimum force and not fire towards the Harmandir Sahib and Akal Takht.

We had to take off our army boots and wear rubber canvas shoes. I had to order shoes for my men before the operation.

In view of the sanctity of the holy place, such measures were advisable. We did whatever we could to maintain the holiness, but the temple had already been defiled by them (the terrorists).

There was a full-fledged grenade making factory inside the Golden Temple. The sanctity of the temple had already been destroyed.

Bhindranwale did not move into the Golden Temple [till 1983]. All the other security services were available to the government, but they were unable to tackle the situation. It was only after that that the army was called.

The situation had reached a point of no return.

Khalistan would have been in existence today but for the army.

The history of the nation would have been different. There would have been Khalistan, Pakistan and China. The fate of the country would have been different.

Punjab is still a sensitive state, Khalistan is not dead.

IMAGE: Then lieutenant colonel Israr Rahim Khan at the Golden Temple. Photograph: Kind courtesy Brigadier Israr Rahim Khan

When did your battalion leave the Golden Temple?

We were the first to enter and last to leave. The battle was over on the June 6, there were some remnants on the 7th.

The temple was washed and cleaned.

I was told that 10 Guards would remain inside the temple till the prime minister's visit. The President came on a visit. Indira Gandhi visited on June 23.

I had 600 men inside and we were using the living quarters of the SGPC staff inside. I used to send my men in batches by vehicles to Govindgarh fort to bathe and return.

There was a lot of currency, jewellery and valuables found inside. It had been collected by Bhindranwale and kept in gunny bags.

The army constituted a board of officers to take charge of all the jewellery and count the currency so that it could be deposited in the government treasury. I was presiding officer of that board.

I requested my brigade commander that I had fought a battle, lost men and was still deployed inside. I told him, 'Sir, with due respect, I can't do stocktaking of Bhindranwale's wealth'. This was not my training as a soldier.

The task was given to someone else.

We left on June 23.

What do you remember about Indira Gandhi's visit to the Golden Temple after the Operation?

Indira Gandhi looked very sombre at the sight of the gaping holes in the Akal Takht. The army chief General Arun Vaidya, Lieutenant General Krishnaswamy Sundarji, Major General Brar and many other senior officers were present.

I had Sikh troops and a Guardsman Hari Singh (Sepoys of the Guards battalion are called guardsmen) was dressed in the ceremonial attire. He offered her water saying 'Peelo ji' and that's the only time she smiled.

You have lived under the threat of Khalistani terrorists since the operation, yet your security cover was downgraded last year and reinstated after much back and forth?

The UP government downgraded my security from Y to X category. About the same time a video was released which announced a large bounty on the heads of Lieutenant General Brar, Colonel (Jasbir Singh) Raina and myself.

I went to the police commissioner to inform him. He told me he had recommended that my security should not be reduced. He did not know why it was downgraded and said he would speak to the DGP and revert.

I told him the threat is out there and there is no time. I said I fought the terrorists because I was ordered to do the task. I did it to the best of my ability in the interest of the nation.

I also conveyed it up to the Directorate General of Military Intelligence at Army HQ. They were as loyal as they were to me in service and took it up with the Intelligence Bureau and home ministry.

It took 3-4 months of paperwork and the home ministry ordered the UP government to restore it. It took another 3-4 months for the UP government to restore it to Y category.

I have Y category security now.

Photograph: Seema Pant for Rediff.com IMAGE: Brigadier Israr Rahim Khan.

When did your family know that you and your battalion were fighting terrorists inside the Golden Temple?

My wife is a doctor and was posted in west Delhi. She thought I was with my unit in Jalandhar and did not know that I was fighting inside the Golden Temple.

She lived in a residential colony of doctors and paramedical staff. One night the head nurse knocked at the door at 10 pm and told her she had seen me on TV. My wife turned the TV set on and saw me.

She was shocked. I met my family much later.

When did you know that you had been awarded the Kirti Chakra?

I came to know through the newspaper on Republic Day in 1985.

It had never even crossed my mind that I would get something in return for what we did. It was about soldiering and loyalty to nation. I motivated my troops in the same manner.

I wrote the citation of 14 from my battalion for gallantry awards. All 14 were accepted and received gallantry medals, some posthumously.

Three among them were Sikhs who laid down their lives for the nation.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com
'It was Maulana Azad's foresight which created the IITs, UGC, science academies across the country.'

IMAGE: From left to right, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, president of the Indian National Congress; Asaf Ali, member of the working committee; Jawaharlal Nehru. This photograph was taken after the Congress Working Committee met to discuss the British Cabinet Mission to India, March 1946. Photograph: Keystone/Hulton Archive/Getty Images

The Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance government has decided to not mention Maulana Abul Kalam Azad in National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) textbooks henceforth.

Historians have criticised this move and declared that it is very unfortunate that the man who was at the forefront of India's Indian Independence movement will not be known to future generations of Indian students.

Maulana Azad was against the division of the country and had openly advocated against the forming of Pakistan.

He had warned the Muslim community in 1947 that Pakistan would be disastrous for Muslims left behind in India and even for those who would migrate to Pakistan.

Post Independence he became India's first education minister, which post he occupied till his death in 1958.

"Azad's (education) policy was first Indian and then global," Syeda Hameed, Maulana Azad's biographer, tells Syed Firdaus Ashraf/Rediff.com in an e-mail interview.

Hameed -- a former member of the then Planning Commission -- is the author of India's Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, Islamic Seal on India's Independence: Abul Kalam Azad -- a Fresh Look and Maulana Azad, Islam and the Indian National Movement.

As a scholar on Maulana Azad's life, how do you see the NCERT move to remove references to him from its textbooks?

It is gross violence on future generations who will not know a man who was known all over the world as an 'apostle of Hindu-Muslim unity'.

Why is it important to learn about Maulana Azad's life in today's India? What role did he play in India's freedom movement?

Maulana Azad jumped into the freedom struggle in 1912 -- before Mahatma Gandhi and Pandit Nehru.

He was the youngest Congress president in 1923.

He was indicted by the British government in his statement Quol e Faisal before entering Alipore jail in 1916.

He negotiated with the Cripps Mission in 1942.

He started basic education based on the Wardha scheme of Gandhiji. He remained steadfast in opposing Partition until the end.

Why was Maulana Azad chosen to lead India's education department after Independence? Was it because he developed a deep friendship with Jawaharlal Nehru when they spent time together in jail at Ahmednagar Fort?

He was offered any portfolio of his choice, but he chose education as it was most crucial for the newly independent India.

It's most erroneous to say that it had anything to do with 'friendship with Nehru'. They were comrades and fellow travellers from the very start.

Distribution of portfolios among a bunch of young freedom fighters had nothing to do with 'deep friendships'.

When the British left India, India's literacy rate was just 12%. What were the steps Maulana Azad took to ensure India became a 100% literate country?

It was his commitment to education which led him to collect the best minds in the country to move the agenda.

It was his foresight which created the IITs, UGC, science academies across the country, in addition to the three Akademis to engrain art and aesthetics.

Basic universal education was his hallmark.

He was India's first education minister, so could you tell us what was the education policy during British times and what did policies Maulana Azad change and implement post 1947?

British education policy was dyed in colonialism.

Azad's policy was first Indian and then global. (Maulana Azad emphasised) primary education in the mother tongue, work by hands, humanism beyond borders and boundaries.

Jawaharlal Nehru is credited for setting up educational institutions like the IITs. As education minister, what was Maulana Azad's role in setting up the IITs?

It was Maulana who set up the IITs with the full support of all his colleagues, primarily Panditji.

The Right-wing blames Maulana Azad as education minister for introducing a Marxist version of history in India which propagated the Aryan invasion of India theory which many of them believe is a false narrative. Did Maulana Azad have any active role to play in it?

This is false, erroneous and has no historical basis whatsoever.

Another allegation against Maulana Azad is that he encouraged Indian historians to glorify the Mughals as secular rulers whereas the fact is that they were barbarians who only believed in crushing Hindu customs and way of life.

Was there a deliberate attempt from the education ministry to glorify the Mughals in Independent India?

This is equally false and mischievous and misleading. Azad's writings are testimony.

Those who spread these canards have not read anything written by him.

Remember, he was a writer par excellence and a meticulous student of history.

Your father Khwaja Ghulamsahab worked as secretary in the ministry of education. Did he ever share with you what it was like to work under Maulana Azad?

My father Khwaja Ghulamus Saiyidain worked very closely with Maulana Sahib for 10 years.

Maulana was excellent in English, but preferred to speak and write in his own language. So father did most of the required translation.

We were taught to understand Islam through his translation and explication of the Quran which was simple, universal and inclusive.

Now, we don't know what the motive behind the government removing Maulana Azad's reference from textbooks is, but could it be that he was very harsh on Sardar Patel in his biography India Wins Freedom in which he stops short of blaming Patel for the Partition of India?

No comment on the government's motives to remove Azad's references from NCERT texts.

India Wins Freedom is a book written by Professor Humayun Kabir based on his interactions with Azad.

There are books written with Azad's pen which beautifully explain his philosophy and worldview.

Not one of the commentators have read Azad's own writings. Their superficial pronouncements are based on secondary sources which have no credibility whatsoever.

Why could Maulana Azad not win over the Indian Muslim masses to not opt for Pakistan, and lost to Jinnah's appeal?

'Indian masses' -- what does that mean?

A handful of Muslims under the leadership of Mr Jinnah voted for Pakistan, the British placed their seal on it and the world witnessed mass killings and miseries and a mass exodus.

Azad stood like a rock to stop this madness, but none of the coterie cared.

The coterie, not the masses.

And has the power elite ever cared for the masses?

IMAGE: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, third from left, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, second from left, and other dignitaries pay tribute to Maulana Abul Kalam Azad on his birth anniversary at the Central Hall of Parliament, New Delhi, November 11, 2022. Photograph: ANI Photo

He was a two-time Congress president. Even the Congress forgot to display his picture this February at its plenary session in Raipur. Why has Maulana Azad become like a pariah even for his own party?

Not a pariah at all. Just unthinking publicity which shows up in these public hoardings.

I have often pulled up the party publicity department for not displaying Azad properly; a stunning personality with exquisite looks.

Instead, his images on hoardings are mediocre and stereotypical.

Is it true Maulana Azad had become friendless and alone in the last days of his life? Why did this happen?

Azad until the end was deeply engaged with the Indian polity.

His speech at the Ramlila Grounds in February 1957, two days before he passed away, was for the importance of all Indian languages.

He was sharing the dais at the Ramlila grounds with Pandit Nehru and Pandit Sunderlal.

Azad was a private person whose life was work; to that extent he remained aloof, by choice.
A Pakistani anti-terrorism court has sent a Chinese national to jail on 14-day judicial remand on blasphemy charges in the restive Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province after he was arrested on Monday, according to media reports on Tuesday.

The police arrested the Chinese national identified as Tian on Sunday and on Monday he was shifted to Abbottabad via an Army helicopter due to security concerns as the police feared local people could harm him.

Tian was booked on blasphemy charges and sent to prison on a 14-day judicial remand by an Abbottabad anti-terrorism court on Monday, the Dawn newspaper reported.

The Chinese citizen, a manager at the Dasu Hydropower Project, the biggest hydropower project in Pakistan, in the Upper Kohistan district of the province, allegedly made blasphemous remarks on Friday when the workers were going to perform the weekly prayer.

According to local people, the Chinese manager complained to workers at the dam that precious time was being lost due to prayer breaks.

The Dasu Hydropower Project is a major venture under the USD 60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CEPC).

We have arrested the foreigner suspect under blasphemy and terrorism charges and airlifted him from here to present him before the anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Abbottabad, district police officer (DPO) Upper Kohistan, Mohammad Khalid, was quoted as saying in the report.

The suspect was later produced before the ATC amid strict security measures. The DPO said the Chinese national was moved to Islamabad onboard a helicopter on Monday evening, the report said.

The police registered a first information report (FIR) against Tian at the Dasu police station on Monday, hours after hundreds of residents and labourers working on the dam project blocked a key highway and rallied, demanding his arrest.

Under Pakistan's tough blasphemy laws, the offence carries the death penalty.

According to the officer, the police swung into action after getting reports on Sunday night that a local mob tried to break into a Chinese camp near the project site.

The mob was controlled, but they assembled again on Monday and blocked the Karakoram Highway, which links Pakistan with China, in a protest that lasted for over six to seven hours, demanding the Chinese national's arrest.

The blocked highway was later reopened to traffic, and work resumed at the Dasu Dam after Tian's arrest.

In Beijing, China's foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said the embassy in Islamabad was verifying the information.

"The Chinese government always asks Chinese nationals overseas to abide by laws and regulations of the host countries and respect local customs and traditions. If the incident involves Chinese nationals, our embassy will provide consular protection and assistance within the purview of its duty," Wang told reporters in response to a question at a regular news briefing.

Meanwhile, in a bid to defuse the situation, a team of Ulema from nearby towns and villages have set up a committee to examine the situation.

The meeting was attended, among others, by Upper Kohistan deputy commissioner Irfanullah Mehsood and district police officer Mohammad Khalid.

The participants urged the agitators not to take the law into their hands as police and the district administration were handling the matter admirably.

Blasphemy is a sensitive issue in Pakistan. On December 3, 2021, a Sri Lankan national working in a factory in Sialkot was lynched by a mob after workers accused him of blasphemy.

The Dasu Hydropower Project site was hit by a suicide bus blast in July 2021, in which 13 people, including nine Chinese nationals, were killed.

Nine Chinese nationals and two Frontier Corps soldiers were among those killed when the bus carrying Chinese engineers and workers to the site of the under-construction Dasu Dam exploded.

The Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS), in a report in January 2022, stated that as many as 89 citizens were killed in 1,415 accusations and cases of blasphemy in the country since independence.

The report said that from 1947 to 2021, 18 women and 71 men were extra-judicially killed over blasphemy accusations. The allegations were made against 107 women and 1,308 men.

A large number of Chinese nationals have been working in Pakistan on various projects being undertaken under the CEPC.
The Supreme Court on Tuesday questioned the Gujarat government over the remission granted to the 11 convicts last year in the case of gangrape of Bilkis Bano and murder of her family members during the 2002 Godhra riots, saying the gravity of the offence should have been considered and asked whether there was any application of mind.

IMAGE: Samajwadi Party (SP) supporters holding placards stage a protest against the remission of sentence granted to 11 convicts in Bilkis Bano case by Gujarat government, at Azad Maidan, in Mumbai. Photograph: ANI Photo

Asking for reasons for the premature release of the convicts, a bench of Justices KM Joseph and BV Nagarathna also questioned the paroles granted to them during their incarceration period. "It (remission) is a kind of grace which should be proportional to crime."

"Look at the records, one of them was granted parole for 1,000 days, that is three years, the other 1,200 days and third is for 1,500 days. What policy have you (Gujarat government) been following? It is not a simple case of section 302 (murder) but a case of murders compounded by gangrape. Like you cannot compare apples with oranges, similarly massacre cannot be compared with single murder."

Hearing a plea challenging the release of the convicts, the court said although there was consultation with the Centre for grant of remission but the state government is required to apply its mind, looking at the gravity of the offence.

The Centre and the Gujarat government also told the court they may file a plea seeking a review of its March 27 order asking them to be ready with original files on the grant of remission.

Senior advocate AM Singhvi, appearing for one of the PIL petitioners, said the records show that when the convicts were released on bail, they had given threats to witnesses and were involved in other crimes.

Advocate Shobha Gupta, appearing for Bano, said no new records have been filed in the petition and it is just the challenge to the remission granted to the convicts.

The bench told Additional Solicitor General SV Raju, appearing for the Centre and the Gujarat government, "Here a pregnant woman, who was gang-raped and several members of her family were killed. Crimes are generally committed against society and the community. Unequals cannot be treated equally."

"The real question is whether the government applied its mind and what material formed the basis of its decision to grant remission in the facts and circumstances of the case," the bench said, adding, "Today it is this lady (Bilkis) but tomorrow it can be anyone. It may be you or me. If you do not show your reasons for grant of remission, then we will draw our own conclusions."

The bench told Raju that non-production of original files will be construed as contempt and asked him why the state government was shying away from producing the files.

Justice Joseph said the court is actually concerned with the exercise of power by the state government in the present case and referred to a 2006 two-judge verdict of the apex court in the case of Epuru Sudhakar versus Government of Andhra Pradesh, in which the remission order was set aside as the ground was that the convict was "a good Congress worker".

"We are aware that the power of the state government to grant remission is not amenable for judicial review unless manifestly arbitrary. It is a sovereign power which does exist under various jurisdictions. It is a kind of grace which should be proportional to crime. There has to be some objective standards. For the exercise of power under Article 161 of the Constitution, certain guidelines as laid down by this court needs to be followed," he said.

The bench further said that when a crime is committed, the offence is against a community or the society and "when you release a person in a case like this, you have to look at the public at large. You have to see what message you are sending to the public".

Senior advocate Siddharth Luthra, appearing for one of the convicts, said that when the victim has filed the petition challenging the remission, then the court ought not to hear PILs filed by third parties.

"This court has said it is a grave offence and I appreciate that but equally we have to see that my client has served 15 years incarceration for the offence," he added.

Advocate Rishi Mahotra, also appearing for one of the convicts, sought a copy of the review petition filed by Bano, which was dismissed by the top court last year, and said that according to him the grounds taken in the review petitions are same as in the writ petition filed by her.

"If the grounds in the review petition and the writ petitions filed by Bano are the same then the writ petition will not survive."

The bench said the review was against the order passed by the top court in May on which the state government's remission policy will apply in the case of convicts and that it had not challenged the remission order.

Counsels of other convicts also sought time to file their responses.

Raju said he has to seek instructions on further course of action by April 24 but as per his current instructions, the Centre and the state government may file a plea for review of the March 27 order.

The bench said all the respondents shall file their replies by May 1 and posted the matter for further hearing on May 2.

At the outset, when counsels for convicts said they need time to file their responses, Justice Nagarathna said the court is aware of this strategy that in one hearing, a convict will file his reply and in another hearing another accused will file their reply and eventually delay the proceedings.

On March 27, terming Bilkis Bano's gang-rape and the murder of her family members during the 2002 Godhra riots as a "horrendous" act, the top court had asked the Gujarat government whether uniform standards, as followed in other cases of murder, were applied while granting remission to the 11 convicts in the case.

It had sought a response from the Centre, Gujarat government and others on the plea filed by Bano, who has challenged the remission of the sentences.

All the 11 convicts were granted remission by the Gujarat government and released on August 15 last year.

The top court is seized of PILs filed by CPI-M leader Subhashini Ali, Revati Laul, an independent journalist, Roop Rekha Verma, who is a former vice chancellor of the Lucknow University, and TMC MP Mahua Moitra against the release of the convicts.

Bano was 21 years old and five months pregnant when she was gang-raped while fleeing from the riots that broke out after the Godhra train burning incident. Her three-year-old daughter was among the seven family members killed.
A Delhi court on Tuesday reserved its order on the bail application of Aam Aadmi Party leader Manish Sisodia, arrested in a money laundering case related to the alleged Delhi excise policy scam, for April 26.

IMAGE: Former Delhi deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia in the lift of Rouse Avenue court as the court extended his judicial custody till April 27 in a case related to now-scrapped excise policy, in New Delhi, Monday, April 17, 2023. Photograph: PTI Photo

Special Judge M K Nagpal reserved the order after hearing arguments on his application seeking relief claiming his custody is no longer required for investigation.

The ED opposed the application, asserting the investigation was at a 'crucial' stage and claiming the former Delhi deputy chief minister had planted fabricated e-mails to show there was public approval for the policy.

The federal anti-money laundering agency also said it has found fresh evidence of his complicity in the alleged crime.

Special Public Prosecutor Naveen Kumar Matta, appearing for the ED, told the judge the agency is likely to file a supplementary charge sheet against Sisodia and co-accused Arun Pillai and Amandeep Dhal by the end of this month.

The court had on Monday extended till April 29 Sisodia's judicial custody in the money laundering cases lodged by the ED.

It also extended his custody till April 27 in the corruption case related to the alleged scam being probed by the CBI.

The court had on March 31 dismissed Sisodia's bail application in the corruption case, saying he was 'prima facie the architect' in the criminal conspiracy behind alleged payment of advance kickbacks of around Rs 90-100 crore meant for him and his colleagues in the Delhi government.

The court had observed the release of the senior AAP leader, at the moment, will 'adversely affect the ongoing investigation'.

The CBI and the ED had arrested Sisodia for alleged corruption in the formulation and execution of the now-scrapped Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22 and for laundering the money so generated.
SpaceX's Starship is a super heavy lift rocket and spacecraft built to carry immense cargo and numerous astronauts into deep space.

The rocket is made of stainless steel, a material SpaceX Founder Elon Musk is particularly fond of due to its relatively low price.

Unlike other rocket, which flies on super-chilled liquid hydrogen and oxygen, this rocket is fueled by liquid methane and oxygen.

The new fuel can be stored at more manageable temperatures than liquid hydrogen and is less prone to leaks.

SpaceX said it would attempt the first launch of its Starship rocket system on Thursday, April 20, after a launch attempt on Monday, April 17, had to be scrubbed due to issues with the launch vehicle's first stage.

IMAGE: SpaceX Starship on its Boca Chica launchpad, near Brownsville, Texas, April 16, 2023, after the US Federal Aviation Administration granted a long-awaited license allowing Elon Musk's SpaceX to launch the rocket to orbit for the first time. Photograph: Go Nakamura/Reuters

IMAGE: A view before SpaceX's Starship's launch on an orbital test mission was delayed from the company's Boca Chica launchpad. Photograph: Go Nakamura/Reuters

IMAGE: Spectators gathers to watch the SpaceX Starship. Photograph: Go Nakamura/Reuters

IMAGE: Spectators watch from boats before SpaceX's Starship's attempted launch. Photograph: Go Nakamura/Reuters

IMAGE: Visitors take selfies in front of a Starbase sign at the SpaceX Starbase. Photograph: Go Nakamura/Reuters

IMAGE: Photographers set up remote cameras to capture the launch. Photograph: Steve Nesius/Reuters

IMAGE: The SpaceX Starship at its Boca Chica launchpad. Photograph: Joe Skipper/Reuters

IMAGE: Cameron county sheriff deputies stand near the SpaceX Starship. Photograph: Steve Nesius/Reuters

IMAGE: Spectators view the SpaceX Starship. Photograph: Steve Nesius/Reuters

IMAGE: Barbara Belvisi, left, takes a picture of Gene Gore, centre, with the SpaceX Starship. Photograph: Go Nakamura/Reuters

IMAGE: People picnic on the beach park as the SpaceX Starship is seen on its Boca Chica launchpad. Photograph: Go Nakamura/Reuters

IMAGE: People gather before SpaceX's Starship lifts off from the company's Boca Chica launchpad on an orbital test mission. Photograph: Go Nakamura/Reuters

IMAGE: SpaceX propulsion engineer Travis Talbot gets his telescope ready on the day of the planned launch of SpaceX's Starship. Photograph: Gene Blevins/Reuters

IMAGE: People leave as the SpaceX's Starship planned liftoff from the company's Boca Chica launchpad on an orbital test mission is postponed. Photograph: Joe Skipper/Reuters

Photographs curated by Manisha Kotian/Rediff.com

Feature Presentation: Rajesh Alva/Rediff.com
India has recorded 7,633 new coronavirus infections, while the active cases have increased to 61,233, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Tuesday.

IMAGE: A healthcare worker examines the swab samples collected for COVID-19 testing amid a rise in the cases in Gurugram. Photograph: ANI Photom

The death toll has increased to 5,31,152 with 11 deaths.

While four deaths were reported from Delhi, one each was reported from Haryana, Karnataka and Punjab while four fatalities were reconciled by Kerala, the data updated at 8 am stated.

The Covid case tally was recorded at 4.47 crore (4,48,34,859).

The active cases now comprise 0.14 per cent of the total infections and the national COVID-19 recovery rate has been recorded at 98.68 per cent, the ministry said.

The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 4,42,42,474 while the case fatality rate was recorded at 1.18 per cent.

According to the ministry's website, 220.66 crore doses of Covid vaccine have been administered in the country so far under the nationwide vaccination drive.
Nationalist Congress Party chief Sharad Pawar on Tuesday dismissed speculation about his nephew and senior party leader Ajit Pawar's next political move and said no meeting of Nationalist Congress Party MLAs has been called by anyone.

IMAGE: NCP leader Ajit Pawar and Shiv Sena-UBT chief Uddhav Thackeray meet sunstroke patients in Kharghar. Photograph: @AjitPawarSpeaks/Twitter

He also said Ajit Pawar was busy with the party's work and that there was no need for the media to drag the issue.

Earlier on Monday, Ajit Pawar also dismissed as false the reports that he has called a meeting of MLAs on Tuesday, amid intense speculation in Maharashtra's political circles about his growing proximity with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party.

Rumours about Ajit Pawar's next political move started swirling last week when he suddenly cancelled his scheduled meetings and also made comments which were seen as being soft on the BJP and Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's camp. The BJP is part of the Shinde government.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Sunday added grist to the rumour mill claiming Sharad Pawar recently told Uddhav Thackeray that his party will never join hands with the BJP even if anyone takes an individual decision to do so.

Speaking to the reporters in Purandar area of Maharashtra's Pune district on Tuesday, Sharad Pawar said whatever discussions are going on in the minds of the media are not there in "our minds".

"...There is no importance of all these discussions. The reports have no meaning. Somebody is trying to create news. I can say about NCP that all our colleagues are of one thinking of how to make the party stronger, and there is no other thought in anybody's mind," the NCP chief said.

Sharad Pawar, whose party is a constituent of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) which also comprises the Shiv Sena (UBT) and Congress, dismissed reports of a meeting of NCP MLAs being called in Mumbai and said no one has called such a meeting.

"I read in the newspapers about the meeting of (NCP) MLAs. But, it is 100 per cent true that there is no such meeting (taking place), and no one has called such a meeting," he said.

"The party's state president (Jayant Patil) is busy with market committee elections in his region, and another party leader, Ajit Pawar, is also busy with the work of the party and providing guidance to everyone," he added.

The NCP chief said after his clarification, the media has no right to drag the issue.

He was responding to queries from mediapersons on reports speculating about Ajit Pawar and the party MLAs going with him.

Sharad Pawar also said after his programmes in Pune, he will head to Mumbai.

Asked about Congress leader KC Venugopal's meeting with Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray at the latter's residence 'Matoshree' in Mumbai, Sharad Pawar said he, Rahul Gandhi, AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge and Venugopal had met in Delhi.

"The agenda was to convene a meeting of opposition leaders at a national level and chalk out a programme, and Venugopal had come to Matoshree to invite Thackeray for that meeting. I am sure Thackeray and we all will attend the meeting of opposition at the national level, and we will participate in the common programme," he said.
As many as 31 people belonging to Hakki-Pikki tribal community from Karnataka are stranded in Sudan, where rival factions of the ruling military regime have been battling for control of the African nation.

IMAGE: Members of South Sudan People's Defence Forces (SSPDF), at the Juba International Airport, South Sudan. Photograph: Samir Bol/Reuters

Karnataka State Disaster Management Authority Commissioner Manoj Rajan said, 'We have got a message that a group of 31 people hailing from Karnataka are stranded in Sudan. We have informed the Ministry of External Affairs about it.'

The officer said his department has asked the group to follow the instructions of the Indian embassy in Sudan.

'As of now, stranded people should stay wherever they are and not venture out. The MEA is seized of the matter and is working on it,' Rajan said in a statement.

In a series of tweets, Congress leader Siddaramaiah urged the Government of India to intervene and bring the stranded people back to the country.

'It is reported that 31 people from Karnataka belonging to Hakki Pikki tribe, are stranded in Sudan which is troubled by civil war. I urge @PMOIndia @narendramodi, @HMOIndia, @MEAIndia and @BSBommai to immediately intervene & ensure their safe return,' he tweeted.

The Hakki Pikkis in Sudan were left stranded without food for the past few days and the government has not yet initiated action to bring them back, he alleged.

Siddaramaiah sought the Bharatiya Janata Party government at the Centre to immediately open diplomatic discussions and reach out to international agencies to ensure the well-being of Hakki-Pikkis.

'It is also unfortunate to know that we have lost one Indian & 60 others in the ongoing civil war in Sudan. My deepest condolences to their families and pray for the peace in the region,' he said in his message.

At least 185 people have been killed and over 1,800 wounded since the fighting erupted in Sudan.

The sudden outbreak of violence over the weekend between the nation's two top generals, each backed by tens of thousands of heavily armed fighters, trapped millions of people in their homes or wherever they could find shelter, with supplies running low and several hospitals forced to shut down.

The two sides are using tanks, artillery and other heavy weapons in densely populated areas.

Fighter jets swooped overhead and anti-aircraft fire lit up the skies as darkness fell.
A number of Indian diaspora organisations in the UK have issued letters objecting to the creation of a new cross-party parliamentary group for British Gujaratis, warning that the move could be divisive.

IMAGE: British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak speaks, during Prime Minister's Questions, at the House of Commons in London, Britain, March 22, 2023. Photograph: UK Parliament/Roger Harris/Handout via Reuters

The British Gujaratis All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) was registered as a new body with the stated purpose to ensure that the economic, health, social and cultural needs of the British Gujarati community are reflected in parliament, with a particular emphasis, on health, education, and elderly care".

PGs, which have no official status within the British parliament, are informal cross-party groups formed by members of parliament (MPs) and House of Lords peers who share a common interest in a particular policy area, region or country.

"We see this move as divisive and against the interests of the British Indian community, reads a letter from the Friends of India Society International (FISI) UK issued last week to the office-bearers of the new group.

We fail to see any concrete reasons for its creation as the concerns raised are not separate from those of the British Indian community and hence the same can be addressed through APPG for British Hindus and APPG for India, it notes.

It warns that the move to create the new group is an attack on the unity of the British Indian community and also on India.

"Such disharmonious and mala-fide attempts creating strife within the wider Hindu/Indian community needs to be discouraged, it adds.

Similar sentiments have been expressed in a series of letters issued by groups such as the Hindu Forum of Britain (HFB), British Sikh Association and the National Association of Patidar Samaj -- which represents the British Gujarati community.

"Any organisation that divides a community instead of uniting it has already defeated the object, said Lord Rami Ranger, chair of the British Sikh Association.

"There are APPGs of Hindus and India, unless of course we will have an APPG on Brahmins and Lohanas too, he questioned.

"From our assessment, it has become clear that the vast majority of Hindu/ Gujarati/Indian organisations have not been consulted. Had this basic first step taken place then it would have become abundantly clear that the said APPG Gujarati commanded no confidence and is rejected by Gujaratis and the Indian diaspora in general, notes a letter issued by HFB president Trupti Patel.

The new British Gujaratis APPG, which is to be formally launched in the houses of parliament complex in London next week, is made up of a group of six cross-party MPs and peers including Opposition Labour's Navendu Mishra and Virendra Sharma; Bob Blackman and Shailesh Vara from the Tories; and Lord Navnit Dholakia from the Liberal Democrats.

Labour MP Gareth Thomas, who represents the north-west London constituency of Harrow West with a strong Gujarati diaspora presence, is the chair of the group. He claims that there has been considerable interest and support for the British Gujaratis APPG so far and that he would reach out to the groups with concerns to address their questions.

There are an estimated 800,000 British Gujaratis; mostly concentrated in metropolitan areas like Greater London, Midlands, Lancashire & Yorkshire, he tweeted last month, announcing the creation of the new APPG.

I hope the APPG will be able to celebrate the vision and ambition of British Gujaratis and address some of the remaining challenges they face in for example healthcare and in access to good quality care of the elderly. I hope too that the APPG will be able to engage on issues in education, well-being, bilateral trade with the state of Gujarat and economic development here in the UK, he said.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) will probe the case of protests and attempt to vandalise the Indian high commission in London last month, officials said on Tuesday.

IMAGE: Khalistani supporters tried to vandalise the Indian high commission in London on March 19, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo

The NIA will take over the case from the special cell of the Delhi Police which had registered a case under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act as it involves unlawful activities carried out by certain people holding Indian nationality abroad.

According to officials, the NIA is mandated to probe any terror case that takes place in foreign land following amendments to the law governing the anti-terror probe organisation in 2019.

Pro-Khalistani protestors tried to vandalise the Indian High Commission in London and pulled down the national flag while holding protests outside the high commission complex on March 19.

It happened a day after the Punjab Police launched a crackdown against radical preacher Amritpal Singh in Punjab.

The Counter-Terrorism and Counter Radicalisation unit of the Ministry of Home Affairs handed over the case to the NIA and the decision was taken after Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla held a meeting with representatives of the British government last week.

In the London incident, the tricolour flying atop the Indian high commission was grabbed at by a group of protesters waving separatist Khalistani flags and chanting pro-Khalistani slogans, leading to an arrest.

Officials from the mission said the "attempted but failed" attack had been foiled and that the tricolour was now flying "grander". The Metropolitan Police said two members of security staff sustained minor injuries which did not require hospital treatment.

India had summoned the British deputy high commissioner based in New Delhi and demanded an explanation over the complete "absence of security".

In a strongly-worded statement, the Ministry of External Affairs had said India finds "unacceptable" the indifference of the UK government to the security of Indian diplomatic premises and personnel.

Union Home Secretary Bhalla flagged the issue with a UK delegation which was led by Permanent Secretary, Home Office, Sir Matthew Rycroft and "specifically" conveyed New Delhi's concerns on the misuse of UK's asylum status by pro-Khalistani elements to abet terrorist activities and requested better cooperation, increased monitoring of extremists and take proactive action.

India's concerns over the breach of security at the Indian High Commission were also emphasised in that meeting.
A first information report (FIR) has been lodged against Rajasthan Cabinet Minister Mahesh Joshi and others for allegedly abetting the suicide of a 38-year-old man in Jaipur, police said on Tuesday.

IMAGE: Rajasthan minister Mahesh Joshi. Photograph: ANI

Joshi, Congress MLA from Hawa Mahal, however, rejected the allegations and called for a fair probe into the case.

Ramprasad hanged himself on Monday in a godown in the Subhash Chowk area over an alleged land dispute, according to police.

His family members staged a dharna outside the godown and refused to let the police take custody of the body, which is still inside.

In a video recorded before ending his life, Ramprasad alleged that he was forced to take the extreme step as Joshi, Devendra Sharma, Lalit Sharma, Hotel Royal Sheraton's owner Munj Tank, Dev Awasthi and Lalchand Devnani caused a lot of trouble for his family.

Station House Officer (SHO), Subhash Chowk, Ram Phool Meena said the first information report (FIR) was registered on Monday night based on a complaint lodged by Ramprasad's brother.

The case will be probed by the CID-CB as an MLA has been named in it, he said.

Speaking to reporters, Joshi, the local MLA, denied the allegations levelled against him.

He said Ramprasad's family members had come to meet him on April 13 but he did not misbehave with them.

He said this can be ascertained through the footage of his CCTV cameras, which he will provide to the police.

"I don't want to interfere in the police investigation. I want the police to conduct a fair investigation. No written complaint was given to me by the family of the deceased," the minister said.

Strictest action should be taken against those who are found guilty, he added.

Ramprasad's family members and locals staged a dharna outside the godown where he committed suicide.

Bharatiya Janata Party MP Kirodi Lal Meena, who visited the spot, told reporters that Ramprasad went to Joshi after his family did not get help from anywhere.

According to the family members, Meena said, the minister insulted and pushed them.

"Due to the minister's torture, he became depressed and embraced death," the BJP MP charged.

"We gave a memorandum to the police commissioner when he came here and asked him to convey this matter to the government.

"Through a memorandum, we demanded that the accused involved in the case should be arrested, the victim's family should be given a package of assistance and the family should be given a government job," Meena added.

Jaipur Municipal Corporation-Heritage, Deputy Commissioner (Hawa Mahal-Amer zone), Dilip Kumar Sharma said three notices were issued by the civic body to stop the construction of an illegal hotel next to Ramprasad's residence.

The construction work on the hotel was stopped after the notice was sent in January and the illegal construction is being demolished, he said.
The death toll due to sunstroke at the 'Maharashtra Bhushan' award event in Navi Mumbai rose to 14 after the death of a 34-year-old woman while seven patients are undergoing treatment, a civic official said on Tuesday.

IMAGE: Shiv Sena-Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray chief Uddhav Thackeray along with party leader Aaditya Thackeray visits the patients who fell sick due to heat stroke during the Maharashtra Bhushan Samman ceremony, at a hospital in Kamothe. Photograph: @AUThackeray/Twitter

The deceased included 10 women and four men.

"A 34-year-old woman resident of Virar, identified as Swati Vaidya, was declared dead at MGM Hospital in Vashi, taking the toll to 14," said Panvel Municipal Corporation's Deputy Commissioner Vitthal Dake.

The official revised the number of hospitalised patients to seven from nine stated by him earlier in the day.

"Now, only seven patients remain admitted to different hospitals in Navi Mumbai. Their condition is said to be stable and they are out of danger, Dake added.

He had said that patients are recuperating at MGM Hospital in Kamothe, Vashi civic hospital and Medicover Hospital in Kharghar.

The award ceremony was held in an open ground in Kharghar area in Raigad district on Sunday and was attended by several lakh people, most of them followers of social worker Appasaheb Dharmadhikari who was conferred with the Maharashtra Bhushan Award by Union Home Minister Amit Shah at the event.

Dharmadhikari has a massive following in the state due to his tree plantation drives, blood donation and medical camps as well as de-addiction work in tribal areas.

The Opposition has accused the Maharashtra government of insensitivity and questioned the timing of the function, which concluded around noon, amid a rising temperature.

Maharashtra opposition leader Ajit Pawar on Tuesday demanded the registration of a culpable homicide case against the government over the sunstroke deaths.

Under fire from the Opposition, state minister Sudhir Mungantiwar had said the timing was suggested by Dharmadhikari.

"Appasaheb Dharmadhikari had given us the timing and the event was planned accordingly. Politics should not be brought into everything," he said.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. Reza Pahlavi, the son of the Iranian Shah exiled in 1979 after the Islamic Revolution, visited Israel and met with the country's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem, Trend reports via the Israeli media.

Pahlavi attended a ceremony held at the National Holocaust Memorial and Museum, Yad Vashem, in honor of Holocaust Remembrance Day during his historic visit to the Jewish state. He stood alongside Netanyahu and Israel's President Isaac Herzog, but did not deliver a speech.

In an interview with i24NEWS, Reza Pahlavi said that it was his duty to attend the event and honor the Holocaust victims.
Senior Nationalist Congress Party leader Ajit Pawar on Tuesday said he would work for his party till he is alive and scotched speculation that he and a group of MLAs loyal to him might align with the ruling Bharatiya Janta Party.

IMAGE: Nationalist Congress Party leader Ajit Pawar speaks with mediapersons in Mumbai. Photograph: ANI

Talking to reporters in Mumbai, the leader of the opposition in the Maharashtra assembly said there was no truth in reports about any rift in the NCP and his joining hands with the BJP.

Pawar dismissed reports that he had taken the signatures of 40 of 53 MLAs of NCP amid a buzz about his rumoured alliance with the BJP.

He said such unfounded reports hurt party workers and create confusion among them.

"We (party MLAs) are all with the NCP. I will work for the NCP till I live," Pawar added.

He said the NCP has decided to strengthen the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) and the coalition has planned several rallies that target the Centre and the Maharashtra government over various issues.

The MVA comprises Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray), NCP, and Congress.

Responding to a query, Pawar said no signatures of (NCP) MLAs were taken.

"We are working as a family and will continue to do that," he added.

Rumours about Ajit Pawar's next political move started doing rounds last week when he suddenly cancelled his scheduled meetings and also made comments which were seen as being soft on the BJP and Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's camp. The BJP is part of the Shinde government.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Sunday added grist to the rumour mill claiming Sharad Pawar recently told Uddhav Thackeray that his party will never join hands with the BJP even if anyone takes an individual decision to do so.

Ajit Pawar slammed Raut without taking the latter's name on Tuesday and said spokespersons of other parties are behaving like spokespersons of NCP. The NCP leader said he would raise this issue whenever there is a party meeting.

"No one knows who has given them this right. You speak about the party of which you are a spokesperson. You speak about your party's mouthpiece. We are very capable of making our stand clear.

"There is no reason to take our brief. They can put forth respective (party's) views. Our party's spokespersons, leaders at the state, as well as the national level, are capable of explaining the party's stand," he added.

When Maharashtra was under President's rule after the results of the 2019 assembly polls were out and Shiv Sena (undivided) severed ties with ally BJP, Ajit Pawar secretly joined hands with Devendra Fadnavis and a government was formed with Fadnavis as the chief minister and the NCP leader as his deputy. However, that government lasted for just 80 hours after Ajit Pawar resigned.

After the Shiv Sena joined hands with the NCP and Congress to form a coalition government in November 2019, Ajit Pawar took oath as the deputy chief minister and handled the finance portfolio.
Hours after his family claimed that he was "untraceable" since late Monday evening, senior Trinamool Congress leader Mukul Roy said he has travelled to New Delhi for "some personal work", fuelling speculations over his next political move.

IMAGE: Soon after winning Krishnanagar North assembly seat on a BJP ticket in the West Bengal elections in 2021, Mukul Roy returned to the TMC. Photograph: ANI Photo

Roy's family claimed that he is not in the "right frame of mind" and everyone should refrain from indulging in politics over an unwell person.

Roy told reporters that he reached the national capital but had no specific agenda.

"I have come to Delhi. There is nothing specific agenda. I have been an MP for several years. Can I not come to Delhi? Earlier, I used to come to Delhi regularly," he said.

The former railway minister's son Subhrangshu had told PTI that his father was "untraceable" and "missing" since late Monday evening.

As a section of media speculated that Roy could rejoin the Bharatiya Janata Party, Subhrangshu said his father is "extremely unwell" and suffers from "dementia and Parkinson's disease".

"My father is not in the right frame of mind. I would request everyone not to do politics with an unwell person. After he went missing, I had also filed a police complaint last night," he told reporters.

Roy's son claimed when he came to know on Monday night that the TMC leader was travelling to Delhi, he had requested the authorities to de-board him, but by then, "the flight had taken off".

Speculations over Roy rejoining the BJP gained momentum after BJP national secretary Anupam Hazra made a cryptic Facebook post, "Comeback".

When contacted by a news channel, Hazra said, "It's time to wait and watch. Please wait for one or two days; everything will be clear very soon.

Reacting to Hazra's comments, Subhranghsu said it was an attempt to malign the TMC and its national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee.

"This is shameful that some people have stooped so low and are doing politics over my father's visit to New Delhi. This is an attempt to malign the TMC and our party's national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee," he said.

Roy joined the BJP in 2017 following differences with the TMC leadership. He was made BJP national vice president in 2020.

He won from the Krishnanagar North assembly seat on a BJP ticket in 2021 and returned to the TMC just a month after the results were announced, complaining of "ill treatment" by the saffron party.

Since his return to the TMC, he has remained away from the public glare.

Roy also resigned as the chairman of the Public Accounts Committee in the West Bengal assembly last year, citing ill health.
Two infants were in a critical condition on Tuesday after a group of men set fire to the home of a minor Dalit girl, whom two of them had allegedly raped last year.

Image used only for representation. Photograph: ANI Photo

The injured babies include the rape survivor's six-month-old child -- born after the 11-year-old was impregnated in the sexual assault -- and her two-month-old sister, police said.

The two rape accused, recently released on bail, allegedly barged into the family's thatched shed Monday evening with five others, after the victim refused to withdraw the case.

They beat up her mother and then set the shed on fire.

According to chief medical superintendent Sushil Srivastava, the rape survivor's infant son suffered 35 per cent burns and her sister 45 per cent burns in the incident.

"As their condition worsened, both the kids were sent to Kanpur for better treatment," he said.

Santosh Singh, Circle Officer, Purva said the rape survivor's father was attacked with an axe by her grandfather and uncle, who had sided with the accused, and four other people on April 13, according to a complaint filed by her mother.

The father is admitted at the district hospital with serious injuries, he said.

Police said the Dalit girl was gang-raped on February 13, 2022. She gave birth to a son in September that year.

The victim's mother also alleged that their house was set on fire to eliminate her daughter's infant son.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah have sabotaged democracy in the country and there was need for all opposition parties to fight unitedly against this dictatorship, All India Congress Committee general secretary KC Venugopal said in Mumbai on Monday.

IMAGE: Congress general secretary KC Venugopal, meets Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray at latter's residence in Mumbai. Photograph: @ShivSenaUBT_/Twitter

Venugopal arrived in the metropolis in the evening and held a meeting with Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray for more than half an hour, after which both leaders addressed a press conference.

"We have witnessed how democracy has been sabotaged by Modi and Amit Shah. All the opposition parties have a general consensus to fight together against the dictatorship of Modi. The Congress is in full solidarity with the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT). We are all in agreement that we have to fight these forces (BJP) together," he said.

During the previous Parliamentary session, all opposition parties were meeting for a common strategy under the leadership of Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Venugopal said.

"It was the government side that was disrupting proceedings in Parliament. We only sought a Joint Parliamentary Committee probe on the Adani issue. They (BJP) did not want this, hence, resorted to disturbing proceedings," he said.

Venugopal said the Central Bureau of Investigation and the Enforcement Directorate were targeting opposition parties, especially the Shiv Sena (UBT).

He said there was a feeling among all opposition parties for a broader unity, which is why Kharge and Rahul Gandhi met Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and his deputy Tejashwi Yadav as well as NCP supremo Sharad Pawar.

"There are some differences among political parties. They have their own ideologies but the country is facing a bigger issue. This type of atmosphere (under the Modi government) has never been witnessed before," Venugopal claimed.

Speaking on his discussion with Thackeray, the Congress leader said it was a fruitful one where a lot of issues were deliberated upon.

"Hum saath hain (we are together) is the message we want to give," he added.

"I have requested Uddhavji to come to Delhi to meet Soniaji. Then Rahul Gandhi will also definitely visit Mumbai," he said in response to a media query.

Speaking at the press conference, Thackeray, without naming Modi, used terms like "man-eater" and "power-hungry" for the current dispensation at the Centre.

"I don't think it is wrong to use such terminology against them (BJP-led Union government). Only one person is considered important. The Shiv Sena is in the arena with all its strength," the former Maharashtra chief minister said.

"We were with them (BJP) for 25 years but they have forgotten this friendship. We (Shiv Sena) are a party that lives up to friendship. We treat it like a relation," he said.

On BJP national president JP Nadda's recent comments in Mumbai that there won't be any other party left in the country, Thackeray said, "He may have said it unintentionally but it is something we have to oppose. The Sena will fight for democracy."

Thackeray said his party had spoken to Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, adding the (Lok Sabha) elections are not even a year away.

The Shiv Sena (UBT), Congress and the Nationalist Congress Party make up the Maha Vikas Aghadi, which was in power in Maharashtra till June last year.

A rebellion by Eknath Shinde led to a split in the Sena. Shinde went on to become chief minister with the support of the Bharatiya Janata Party.
Kindly note the image has been published only for representational purposes. Photograph: PTI Photo

Banks have become a soft target for armed robbers in Bihar with three banks looted within a week.

The bandits not only looted cash, they also killed two home guard jawans, assaulted and injured bank staff and threatened to kill customers.

More than half a dozen bank robberies have been reported in the state in three months.

In the latest bank robbery, on Tuesday, April 18, 2023, armed thugs looted Rs 16 lakh (Rs 1.6 million) in cash and gold worth Rs 15 lakh (Rs 1.5 million) from the State Bank of India's Chakai branch in Jamui district.

The local police station is located only 500 metres from the bank.

Six men wearing masks entered the bank, which is situated on a busy road, soon after it opened and took everyone including the branch manager and customers hostage at gunpoint.

"The robbers targeted the cashier for not giving the keys to open the locked iron vault and locked the branch manager in the bathroom," a police officer told this reporter.

"They bolted the main gate from inside, looted cash and gold and then fled," the police officer added. The robbery took between 8 to 10 minutes.

The robbers also took away the DVR (digital video recorder) of the CCTVs.

"We are studying footage from nearby CCTVs to identify the robbers," says Jamui Superintendent of Police Shaurya Suman.

Five days ago, on April 13, armed robbers looted Rs 13 lakh (Rs 1.3 million) in cash from the Punjab National Bank branch at Sonepur in Saran district.

The dacoits killed two home guard jawans -- Ram Naresh Rai, 57, and Mahesh Shah, 55 -- who tried to resist them.

The PNB branch is situated not far away from the local police station.

Though CCTV footage of the crime from inside the bank was available, no arrest has been made so far.

Saran Superintendent of Police Gaurav Mangla says the police have conducted raids to identify and arrest the bandits.

The Bihar government has assigned officers from the Bihar police's special task force and detectives from the crime investigation department to assist the Saran police.

On April 11, five armed robbers looted Rs 48 lakh (Rs 4.8 million) from the ICICI bank in East Champaran district.

Three bank robberies were reported in March from Samastipur district.

Armed robbers looted Rs 11 lakh (Rs 1.1 million) on March 24, Rs 20 lakh (Rs 2 million) on March 15 and Rs 11 lakh from banks in Samastipur.
Georgian Economy Minister Levan Davitashvili on Tuesday said implementation of the Maritime Single Window, a system for digital exchange of information used by ports for arrival, stay and departure of ships, would make Georgia even more attractive as a logistics hub, Trend reports with reference to Agenda.

Speaking at the opening meeting of Digital Ports I, a programme which includes the final stage of MSW implementation in the country, Davitashvili highlighted the significance of the maritime transport digitisation programme, which is being carried out in Georgia with the help of the United States.

The programme aims to boost Georgia's competitiveness as part of the Middle Corridor, the trans-Caspian international transport route aiming to connect supply chains and logistics between China and Europe.

The official said it was essential to be able to provide effective and client-focused services considering the growing interest in Georgia as a logistics hub on a global scale.

Digital Ports involves digitisation of state services provided to the port industry and their consolidation onto a single online platform or single window system. Its implementation will simplify and fully digitise port procedures for vessels, enhance port management, automate logistics operations, encourage interagency cooperation and drastically cut the time required for necessary port procedures, the Ministry of Economy said.

The MSW and Digital Ports will also allow for a full implementation of marine directives and rules outlined in Georgias 2014-signed Association Agreement with the European Union. Their implementation will ensure the maritime sector is up to par with EU norms, with domestic port infrastructure compliant with the standards, the body added.

The Georgian Maritime Transport Agency, the Export Control and Border Security programme of the US Embassy in Georgia and the US Government all contribute financially to the process of implementing the MSW in Georgia's port industry. The support extends to both software and system-related materials.

The German consulting company Hamburg Port Consulting won the international tender to implement the programme in Georgian facilities.
Brattleboro, VT (05301)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun this morning followed by mostly cloudy skies and a few showers this afternoon. High around 60F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Considerable cloudiness with occasional rain showers. Low 41F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
French President Emmanuel Macron said Monday that he heard peoples anger over raising the retirement age from 62 to 64, but insisted that it was needed, Trend reports citing Euronews.

In a televised address to the nation, Macron said These changes were needed to guarantee everyones pension, after he enacted the pension law on Saturday.

Gradually working more is also producing more wealth for our whole country, he added.

Macron acknowledged anger over increasing prices and jobs that don't allow too many French people to live well.

The evening address kicks off a likely arduous battle for the French president, who is trying to repair the damage done to his public image and politics by forcing the pension plan through parliament last month.

Before Macron's speech, opponents of the reform called for people to bang pots and pans across France during his address.

Macron, who just enacted the protest-igniting pension changes, was expected to provide details about his domestic policies in the coming months.

He hopes that his address will help the country move away from the period of protests and strikes over the retirement age that threatens the ambitions of his remaining four years in power.

Opponents of the unpopular pension plan called for people to gather in front of city halls to make loud noises during the address, with the rallying cry: Macron wont listen to us? We wont listen to him!
The U.S. State Department has approved the sale of some of the modernization kits requested by Turkiye for the F-16 fighter jets in its fleet, Trend reports citing Hurriyet Daily News.

The U.S. ministry gave the first approval to the sale of modernization kits of the Link-16 tactical data link (TDL) system, also known as the multiple information distribution system, to Turkiye to modernize the communication capability of existing F-16 warplanes.

The State Department has decided to approve the sale of defense equipment and services and related equipment to Turkiye for the modernization of the existing F-16 aircraft fleet with an estimated value of $ 259 million, U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency said in a written statement.

In order to complete the sale, it must pass through the official approval of Congress. If approved by Congress, this will be the first major arms sale of the U.S. to Turkiye in many years.

The resolution followed Ankaras approval of Finlands NATO membership.

U.S. President Joe Biden sent a letter to Congress in April 2022, explaining that the sale of the $20-billion package to Turkiye was in line with NATO and national interests.
Another cookie brand is making its way into Connecticut. Chip City recently announced plans to open a store in Fairfield later this year at 1125 Post Road.

The company has 18 locations in New York and New Jersey, and is expanding to other new East Coast markets like Massachusetts, Florida, Maryland and Washington, D.C., according to a press release.

Chip City rotates more than 40 unique flavors every year, such as peanut butter & jelly, the Everything Cookie (with sweet cream cheese and everything bagel mix), oatmeal apple pie, blueberry cheesecake, smores, lemon berry and cannoli. Each week, the menu changes to offer classic flavors and seasonal varieties. Recent flavors on the weekly menu included a baklava cookie, wrapped in phyllo dough with spiced honey walnuts, and banana cream pie.

Courtesy of Chip City Cookies

"We are thrilled to open our doors in Fairfield," said co-founder Peter Phillips, who launched Chip City with his childhood friend Theodore Gailas in 2017. "This opening is another incredible step forward for the brand and the business mission we have  to make communities smile through the quality of our products and to make our employees feel purpose in their communities."

In 2022, Chip City received a $10 million investment from Enlightened Hospitality Investments (EHI), the growth equity fund associated with Danny Meyers Union Square Hospitality Group, according to the news release. The investment will be used to support the brands expansion and growth of its direct-to-consumer business, along with a shipping agreement with UberEats.

Cookie stores have been expanding quickly throughout Connecticut. Crumbl Cookies, a rapidly-growing chain fueled by its social media following, now has seven stores in Danbury, Fairfield, Manchester, Milford, North Haven, Norwalk and West Hartford. Others are planned for Avon, Newington and Stamford.

Milk N Cookies, a cookie cafe and cereal bar, announced it will open in Norwalk this month at 10 South Main St., joining another location in Stamford. The shop already has locations in Mamaroneck, New York and in Wayne, New Jersey at the Willowbrook Mall.
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NEW YORK (AP)  A parking garage collapsed Tuesday in lower Manhattans Financial District, killing one worker, injuring five and crushing cars as concrete floors fell on top of each other like a stack of pancakes, officials said.

Vehicles tumbled into what looked like a frozen stream of sedans and SUVs. People nearby described a fearsome rumbling, followed by screams.

Ahmed Scott arrived to collect his car after work and found a disaster in the making.

In a video he shot from across the street, someone off-camera yells, Guard! 911! 911! There's a building collapsing on Ann Street," followed by the sound of something crumpling. About 45 seconds later, two women run out, saying the building fell while they were inside it. A man stands on a fire escape as bystanders try to figure out how to help him get down. He eventually did, Scott said.

I hope ain't nobody else in there, Scott recalled thinking, worrying for the garage workers he'd gotten to know.

To Jadess Speller, a student at nearby Pace University, the collapse felt like an earthquake -- like the earth opened up inside, like thats how violent it was." Other students described seeing cars falling in the building.

One vehicle landed on its end in the garage entrance, a photo posted by Mayor Eric Adams' office showed.

Authorities believed they had accounted for everyone inside the building, but searches continued Tuesday evening to make sure no one was in any of the squashed cars, Fire Department Chief of Operations John Esposito said. One garage employee was rescued via a neighboring roof after being trapped on an upper floor, he said.

He was conscious and alert and moving around, calling us. He just couldnt get down, Esposito said. Four of the injured were hospitalized and in stable condition, and the fifth refused medical attention, he said.

The garage caved in around 4 p.m., a few blocks from City Hall and the Brooklyn Bridge, and about half a mile (0.8 km) from the New York Stock Exchange. Pace evacuated an adjacent dorm and classroom building, and canceled all evening classes as it assessed the buildings' safety. School officials sent the displaced students to a student center while working out other accommodations.

Don Mulligan was on the 17th floor of a nearby hotel when he heard a roar like a jet flying overhead and felt the high-rise sway.

You knew something was happening, said Mulligan, of Cincinnati. The hotel was evacuated, he said.

It wasn't immediately clear what caused the collapse. City Buildings Department records show the three-story structure has been a garage at least since the 1920s, and there are no recent permits for construction.

Messages were left for a parking company that lists the garage as one of its properties.

The collapse left the building completely unstable, Adams said at a news conference. Esposito said firefighters had to pull out because of the danger, conducting searches instead with a drone and robotic dog.

The building was all the way pancaked, collapsed all the way to the cellar floor, acting Buildings Commissioner Kazimir Vilenchik said.

William Flashnick, 19, was in a Pace classroom when he and his friends thought they heard an explosion and ran to a window to look. As they opened the window, a plume of thick dust rose in the air.

When it cleared, they peered down into the parking structure, where cars were tossed asunder and a top deck had cracked open.

Flashnick initially worried for all of their lives. One of his first thoughts was of the World Trade Center, which looms over the neighborhood.

We freaked out. Given the history of this place, its a little scary," he said.

___

Associated Press writers Michael R. Sisak and Deepti Hajela contributed.
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WASHINGTON (AP)  Republicans blocked a Democratic request to temporarily replace California Sen. Dianne Feinstein on the Senate Judiciary Committee Tuesday, leaving Democrats with few options for moving some of President Joe Biden's stalled judicial nominees.

South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham, the top Republican on the Senate Judiciary Committee, objected to a resolution offered by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer that would have allowed another senator to take Feinstein's place on the panel while the Democrat recuperates from a case of shingles. Republicans have argued that Democrats only want a stand-in to push through the most partisan judges, noting that many of Bidens nominees have bipartisan support and can move to the Senate floor for a vote.

As he objected, Graham said Democrats were trying to change the numbers on the committee in a way that I think would be harmful to Senate, and to pass out a handful of judges that I think should never be on the bench."

Democrats could still hold a roll call vote on the request. But with what appears to be unified GOP opposition to the move, it would likely be rejected.

Feinstein, 89, made the unusual request last week after pressure from Democrats who are concerned about the judicial nominees and amid some calls for her resignation. She has been absent from the Senate since February and has given no date for a return, creating a headache for Democrats who are hoping to use their majority to confirm as many of President Joe Bidens judicial nominees as possible.

Ahead of the vote, Schumer said the replacement for Feinstein would be Democratic Sen. Ben Cardin, a lawyer and third-term senator from Maryland. Schumer would not answer questions about whether he thinks Feinstein should consider resigning, but said he had spoken to Feinstein and she and I are both very hopeful that she will return soon.

Earlier Tuesday, Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell called the effort to place a substitute on the panel as Feinstein recovers from a case of shingles an extremely unusual request with no known precedent.

Lets be clear, said McConnell in remarks on the Senate floor. Senate Republicans will not take part in sidelining a temporarily absent colleague off a committee just so Democrats can force through their very worst nominees.

McConnells comments came after several Republican senators said on Monday that they wouldnt support the Democratic plan  both because they dont want to help Democrats confirm liberal judges and because they dont think senators should try to push out one of their own.

Republican Sens. Susan Collins of Maine and Chuck Grassley of Iowa said they think Democrats are pressuring Feinstein unfairly.

Collins said that she and Feinstein are good friends, and she thinks there has been a concerted campaign to push her off the judiciary committee. I will have no part of that, Collins said.

Feinstein has come under increasing pressure to resign or step down from her duties. While she has defended her effectiveness, she has faced questions in recent years about her cognitive health and memory, and has appeared increasingly frail.

In 2020, she said she would not serve as the top Democrat on the judiciary panel after criticism from liberals about her handling of Justice Amy Coney Barretts confirmation. Earlier this year, she said she would not serve as the Senate president pro tempore, or the most senior member of the majority party, even though she was in line to do so. The president pro tempore opens the Senate every day and holds other ceremonial duties.

Grassley, a longtime member of the panel who is the same age as Feinstein, chastised Democrats for denying Feinstein the opportunity to become chairman of the committee and trying to force her out of office because shes old.

I dont intend to give credence to that sort of anti-human treatment, Grassley said.

If Feinstein were to resign immediately, the process would be much easier for Democrats, since California Gov. Gavin Newsom would appoint a replacement. The Senate regularly approves committee assignments for new senators after their predecessors have resigned or died. But a temporary replacement due to illness is a rare, if not unprecedented, request.

Some Democrats have called for her full resignation. Her statement asking for a temporary substitute came shortly after Democratic Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., called on her to resign from the Senate, saying it is unacceptable for her to miss votes to confirm judges who could be weighing in on abortion rights, a key Democratic priority.

Another member of the California delegation, Democratic Rep. Pete Aguilar, said Tuesday that Feinstein is a legend in California politics and a legend in the Senate chamber but that her vote will be needed as Congress tries to figure out how to raise the debt ceiling this year.

I will say that our expectation as House Democrats is that every senator is going to need to participate," he said, adding that "she should get to choose that timeline.

Asked if Feinstein should resign, Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Dick Durbin said Monday, Im not going to push her into any other decision. Durbin had previously expressed frustration about his committees stalled nominees.

Durbin appealed to his Republican colleagues to show a little kindness and caring for their colleague.

If the Senate votes to replace her on the panel, I think we can take care of this issue, do it very quickly, Durbin said. I hope we can find 10 Republicans who will join us in that effort.

___

Associated Press writer Farnoush Amiri contributed to this report.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP)  In the wake of a deadly school shooting last month, Republican lawmakers in Tennessee awarded final passage Tuesday to a proposal that would further protect gun and ammunition dealers, manufacturers and sellers against lawsuits.

The Senate's 19-9 vote sends the bill to Republican Gov. Bill Lee, despite pushback from Democratic lawmakers saying their GOP counterparts are trying to shield gun companies just weeks after the Nashville school shooting that killed six people, including three 9-year-olds.

The final vote came as Lee's administration was still trying to drum up enough support among lawmakers in his party to pass legislation to keep firearms away from people who could harm themselves or others. The fate of that kind of measure remains uncertain.

Lawmakers are hurrying to finish a legislative session as soon as this week while receiving national scrutiny over the expulsion of two young Black lawmakers  who are now reinstated  over a House floor gun control protest. Students, parents and others have also applied pressure for weeks to pass gun safety measures.

Democratic Sen. London Lamar, a Memphis lawmaker, said it's disrespectful timing to push through protections for gun companies while people continue to march at the Capitol for gun control changes. The civil liabilities bill passed just ahead of a protest in which people formed a human chain through Nashville to the Capitol in support of gun control measures.

I am challenging you not to pass this bill because we need to do more to protect citizens from gun violence than the people making the guns that people can use to kill more people," Lamar had said.

In the demonstration, scores of people gathered in the late afternoon along a three-mile route from the children's hospital at Vanderbilt University, where victims of the school shooting were taken, to the state Capitol, some with arms outstretched and hands clasped, and others linked arm in arm. The demonstration stretched from sidewalks near campus to a plaza outside the Capitol where many held signs with messages such as, I'm A Voice for Gun Safety.

The bill's sponsor, Sen. Joey Hensley from Hohenwald, said his legislation doesn't prevent any other proposal from passing. The bill passed the House ahead of the March 27 shooting at The Covenant School.

This is just to try to help businesses in this state that have chosen to come here, to give them a little civil liability, Hensley said.

The Tennessee bill spells out a half-dozen situations in which gun and ammo companies could be held civilly liable in Tennessee state courts, exempting others.

Three Republicans voted against the legislation, including Sen. Art Swann of Maryville, who said gun-makers have encouraged the environment weve got right now.

Theyre accountable for it, and we need to hold them to it, Swann said.

The firearm industry remains largely shielded from liability under federal law. Seventeen states do not have special immunity for the gun industry, and Tennessee is already not among them, according to Everytown for Gun Safety, a gun control advocacy group.

Last year, Remington, the company that made the rifle used in the the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre in Connecticut, settled with the families of those killed in the shooting for $73 million. The families had accused the company of targeting younger, at-risk males in advertising and product placement in violent video games.

And in February, families of those killed and injured in a 2018 Texas high school shooting settled a lawsuit they filed against a Tennessee-based online retailer, Lucky Gunner, that was accused of illegally selling ammunition to the student who authorities say fatally shot 10 people. The owner of the company, Jordan Mollenhour, sits on the Tennessee State Board of Education. The company was accused of failing to verify Dimitrios Pagourtzis age  he was 17, at the time  when he bought more than 100 rounds of ammunition on two occasions before the May 2018 shooting at Santa Fe High School.

There are people that we should be going out of way to protect this week, Sen. Jeff Yarbro of Nashville said. And weve been receiving emails and calls, people are holding up signs, telling us to go out of our way to help those people. Not one of those signs says to protect the gun manufacturers.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, April 18. Turkiye to build twice as big warship as TCG Anadolu, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said in an interview to the Turkish TV channel "TRT", Trend reports citing Turkish media.

"We will build a ship that will be twice the size of the TCG Anadolu ship," Erdogan says.

According to him, Turkiye will thus further increase its power at sea.

TCG Anadolu, the world's first drone carrier ship, is Turkiye's largest assault ship. The construction of the ship began in 2014, and on July 1, 2020, it was tested. The ship, equipped with modern radars and sensors, is capable of carrying on board about 100 vehicles, including tanks and armored vehicles, as well as amphibious vehicles and boats. In general, its carrying capacity is 27,436 tons. Kzlelma, Hurjet, and Bayraktar TB3 unmanned aerial vehicles will be able to land on the ship's platform.

Previously, it was noted that the Turkish Navys largest warship TCG Anadolu entered service. The ceremony was attended by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Minister of National Defense Hulusi Akar, and other officials.
While attempting to climb the 10th highest mountain Mt. Annapurna in Nepal on Monday afternoon, a 34-year-old Indian climber went missing in the hills. Anurag Malu, a resident of Kishangadh in Rajasthan, went missing while descending from Camp III of Mt. Annapurna and has gone missing since Monday morning, Mingma Sherpa, chairman of Seven Summit Treks which conducted the trekking expedition told media persons.

Climber on mission to climb all 14 peaks above 8,000m

Sherpa further told that the search operation to locate the missing climber is on. He confirmed that Anurag fell into a crevasse while returning from Camp IV on Monday afternoon.

According to reports, the climber is on a mission to climb all 14 peaks above 8,000m and seven summits to create awareness about the UN Sustainable Development Goals. As per the official from the expedition organizing organization, the climber went missing after he fell down from around 6,000m while descending from Camp III.

Malu also reportedly abandoned the summit attempt and was on his way back to the camp when he fell into the crevasse. Last year, the mountaineer successfully ascended Mount Ama Dablam and was planning to stand atop Mount Everest, Annapurna, and Lhotse this season. Malu was awarded REX KaramVeer Chakra and became the 2041 Antarctic Youth Ambassador from India, according to sources.

Notably, Annapurna is the tenth-highest mountain in the world, standing at 8,091 meters above sea level. It is well known for the difficulty and danger involved in its ascent.
Ireland national Aidan O'Hara, who serves as the EU Ambassador to Sudan, was reportedly assaulted at his residence in the Sudanese capital, Khartoum on Monday. This incident has been verified by Josep Borrell Fontelles, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, who denounced the attack in a tweet.

A few hours ago, the EU Ambassador in Sudan was assaulted in his own residency, he wrote. This constitutes a gross violation of the Vienna Convention. Security of diplomatic premises and staff is a primary responsibility of Sudanese authorities and an obligation under international law.

A few hours ago, the EU Ambassador in #Sudan was assaulted in his own residency.



This constitues a gross violation of the Vienna Convention. Security of diplomatic premises and staff is a primary responsibility of Sudanese authorities and an obligation under international law.  Josep Borrell Fontelles (@JosepBorrellF) April 17, 2023

The EU spokesperson for foreign affairs and security, Nabila Massrali, confirmed to the Irish Independent that 58-year-old OHara was safe. "Ambassador is ok and not injured. He is continuing his duty and we are in touch with him." He added, "The security of the staff is our priority. The EUDEL is not evacuated. Security measures are being assessed."

In a statement issued by the Ireland Foreign Affairs Minister Micheal Martin said: I am deeply concerned at the serious incident in Khartoum today at the home of the EU Ambassador to Sudan, Aidan OHara."

"Although not seriously hurt, this is a gross violation of obligations to protect diplomats under the Vienna Convention. Aidan is an outstanding Irish and European diplomat who is serving the EU under the most difficult circumstances," he continued.

"We thank him for his service and call for an urgent cessation of violence in Sudan, and resumption of dialogue, he added. The Irish Department of Foreign Affairs said it has been in direct contact with Mr OHara.

Having joined the Department of Foreign Affairs in 1986, O'Hara assumed the position of Ambassador to Ethiopia, South Sudan, and the African Union in 2012.

Death toll in Sudan battle rises to 185

The attack on O'Hara occurred amidst the ongoing explosions and gunfire in the Sudanese capital, where the military and the paramilitary forces have been engaged in a street battle for control of the nation over the past three days. The violence has resulted in at least 185 fatalities and more than 1,800 people have been injured, as reported by UN envoy Volker Perthes.

However, the actual number of casualties may be much higher due to the presence of numerous unapproachable bodies on the streets of central Khartoum as a result of the ongoing conflict. No official data has been provided concerning the number of civilian or combatant fatalities.

Earlier, the doctors' syndicate had reported that the number of civilian casualties was 97. The sudden eruption of violence over the weekend between the two highest-ranking generals, each supported by tens of thousands of fighters, has left millions of people trapped in their homes or wherever they could find refuge, with shortages of essential goods in many places.

The two opposing factions are employing tanks, artillery, and other heavy weaponry in densely populated regions. As night fell, fighter jets were seen hovering above, and anti-aircraft fire illuminated the sky. Top diplomats from across the globe have been working hard to negotiate a ceasefire, with the United Nations Security Council scheduled to discuss the situation.
The heads of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and the Military Intelligence (MI) met Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial and two other top judges for more than three hours and briefed them on the security issues facing Pakistan, amidst a tussle between the government and the apex court over holding snap elections in the politically crucial Punjab province.

The meeting between the spy chiefs of Pakistan and the top judges took place on Monday in the chamber of Chief Justice Bandial, the Express Tribune newspaper reported on Tuesday.

The two top spymasters ISI chief Lt Gen Nadeem Anjum and MI Chief Major General Wajid Aziz briefed Chief Justice Bandial on the security issues confronting the country, it said.

A three-judge bench -- led by the chief justice and comprising Justice Munib Akhtar and Justice Ijazul Ahsan -- on April 4 declared as unconstitutional the Election Commission of Pakistans (ECP) decision to postpone the election for the Punjab Assembly and ordered it to hold polls in the province on May 14.

On March 22, the ECP delayed the provincial assembly election in the province by more than five months, citing a deteriorating security situation in the cash-starved country.

The same bench on April 14 ordered the State Bank of Pakistan to release Rs 21 billion to the ECP for holding elections in Punjab and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province and send an appropriate communication to this effect to the finance ministry by April 17.

At an earlier hearing, Defence Secretary, Former Lt Gen Hamood Uz Zaman, requested the bench to get an in-camera briefing on security issues. But the bench had asked him to first submit a classified report.

It seems that these officials directly shared with the judges the reasons why the Army troops could not be made available for security duty on May 14, a lawyer told the paper.

April 17 was the last date to inform the ECP about a security plan as per the direction of the apex court.

It is not clear whether the Supreme Court expressed satisfaction with the briefing. However, the briefing will have far-reaching implications if the judges get convinced that the security situation in the country does not allow the deployment of troops to ensure security during the poll in Punjab.

Holding provincial elections has taken centre stage in Pakistani politics as former Prime Minister Imran Khan has been pushing for snap elections in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces.

PTI Chairman Khan has been demanding early national elections since his ouster in April last year after he lost a confidence vote in Parliament.

The current term of the National Assembly will complete its five-year term in August this year. According to the Constitution, elections shall be held within 90 days after the dissolution of the lower house. This means that the election must be held by mid-October. The last general election was held in July 2018.

The PTI dissolved the Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa assemblies on January 14 and 18, respectively, in a bid to force the ruling coalition to hold early general elections.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif convened a meeting of his coalition partners on Tuesday to discuss the current political situation to take his allies into confidence about the cases in the Supreme Court about polls and the powers of the chief justice.
Indonesias military chief on Tuesday dismissed a separatist group claim that they had killed more than a dozen government soldiers who were searching for a New Zealand pilot taken hostage by the rebels in the restive Papua region.

Adm. Yudo Margono and the militarys top brass flew to the region on Monday after initial information said attackers from the West Papua Liberation Army, the armed wing of the Free Papua Movement, ambushed 36 government soldiers in the hilly district of Nduga in mountainous Papua Highlands province.

Rebel spokesperson Sebby Sambom said in a statement on Monday that his group's fighters were holding the remains of 12 soldiers, including nine who he said were arrested and executed. The rebels offered no proof to back up their statement.

Margono confirmed only one fatality and said four other soldiers were missing. The rest returned to their post, he said. Four were wounded and were in stable condition and evacuated to a hospital in Timika, a mining city in neighboring Central Papua province.

Im here to find out directly and accurately from our troops on the ground about the exact situation, so that we can evaluate our (rescue) mission for the pilot, Margono told a news conference in Timika.

The soldiers were part of a group searching for Phillip Mark Mehrtens, a New Zealand pilot for the Indonesian aviation company Susi Air who was abducted by the rebels in February.

Sambom said in an earlier statement that the rebels carried out the attack in retaliation against Indonesias massive military operation in Papua and the killings of two rebels in a shootout with security forces last month.

Margono rejected the rebel claims as fake news and said the military operations in Papua were launched with a view to keep casualties at a minimum. However, he said that authorities will increase pressure on the rebels around several separatist strongholds, including in Nduga.

The rebels in February stormed a single-engine plane shortly after it landed on a small runway in Paro and abducted its pilot. The plane initially was scheduled to pick up 15 construction workers who had been building a health center after the rebels threatened to kill them.

Authorities will continue to prioritize a peaceful approach for the release of Mehrtens, Margono said.

The fighting is the latest in a series of violent incidents in recent years in Papua, a former Dutch colony in the western part of New Guinea that is ethnically and culturally distinct from much of Indonesia. Conflicts between indigenous Papuans and Indonesian security forces are common.

Papua was incorporated into Indonesia in 1969, after a U.N.-sponsored ballot that was widely seen as a sham. Since then, a low-level insurgency has simmered in the region, which is divided into five provinces since last year to boost development in Indonesia's poorest region.

Rebel attacks have spiked in the past year, with dozens of rebels, security forces and civilians killed.
Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelesnkyy's closest aide Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) spokesperson Oleh Nikolenko, on Monday, responded to Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's efforts for brokering peace in the ongoing Russian hostilities. Nikolenko asked the Brazilian leader to visit Ukraine and take stock of the war situation first hand on the ground following his controversial analysis and attempts of mediation in the war.

Zelenskyy's aide noted that the raging conflict was started by the "aggressor" Russia and that Lula must make an in-person visit to the war torn country to fully understand the consequences of Russia's actions on global security, Ukrainska Pravda reported. The Brazilian President earlier yesterday stirred controversy as he asserted that the ongoing war in Ukraine was caused by "decisions made by the two countries'', referring to Russia's President Vladimir Putin and Ukraine's President Zelenskyy, both of whom he noted do not want to end the conflict.

US needs to stop encouraging war: Lula

Lula derided the United States and its Western allies for flaring the war by pumping arms into Zelenskyy's regime. He also remarked that Russia's President Vladimir Putin was "too friendly." Brazilian leader made these remarks during the visit of Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrovs visit to a Latin American country. The Brazilian head of the state made comments following his return from China, where he discussed Chinese President Xi Jinping's 12-point peace proposal that was welcomed by Russian President Putin.

"The United States needs to stop encouraging war [in Ukraine] and start talking about peace," Lula said at a state presser.

Nikolenko, spokesperson for Ukraine's MFA, noted that the Ukraine "is eagerly following the efforts of the Brazilian President to find a solution to end the war." Spokesperson of the Ukraine MFA further noted that Kyiv is the victim in the conflict and Moscow an aggressor. And that Lula's remarks do not reflect the "actual state of affairs." "More than anything else, we are committed to ending Russian aggression based on the peace formula proposed by President Zelenskyy," Nikolenko stressed. The latter also clarified that Kyiv "does not need to be convinced of anything" as the war was dawned on its soil by the invading forces of Russian Federation. The United States National Security advisor, John Kirby, blasted Lula's pro-Russian stance and mediation efforts, saying that the Brazilian President is "parroting Russian and Chinese propaganda without looking at the facts."
Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Monday expressed gratitude to Brazil for its approach in pushing for an end to hostilities in Ukraine  an effort that has irked both Kyiv and the West, and by afternoon prompted an unusually sharp rebuke from the White House.

Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has refused to provide weapons to Ukraine while proposing a club of nations including Brazil and China to mediate peace.

On Sunday, Lula told reporters in Abu Dhabi that two nations  both Russia and Ukraine  had decided to go to war, and a day earlier in Beijing said the US must stop stimulating the continued fighting and start discussing peace. Earlier this month, he suggested Ukraine could cede Crimea to end the war, which the spokesperson for Ukraine's foreign ministry, Oleg Nikolenko, and others rejected.

After meeting Brazil's foreign minister on Monday, Lavrov told reporters in a short press conference that the West has engaged in a rather tough struggle to maintain its dominance in world affairs, including economics and geopolitics.

As for the process in Ukraine, we are grateful to our Brazilian friends for their excellent understanding of this situation's genesis. We are grateful (to them) for striving to contribute to finding ways to settle it," Lavrov said, sitting alongside his Brazilian counterpart, Mauro Vieira.

Lula's recent comments, particularly ascribing any blame to Ukraine for Russia's invasion in Feb 2022, run counter to the position held by the European Union, the US and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. And any talk of a ceasefire is viewed as an opportunity for Russia to regroup its forces for a new offensive. Zelenskyy told The Associated Press last month that a loss anywhere at this stage in the war could put Ukraine's hard-fought momentum at risk.

Vieira, for his part, told reporters that Brazil sees sanctions against Russia as causing negative impacts for the global economy, particularly developing nations, and that Brazil supports an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine.

Following the meeting, National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby blasted Brazil's approach to the war and for its officials having met Lavrov and Russia's Vladimir Putin in person, while thus far only speaking to Ukrainian officials by phone.

Brazil has substantively and rhetorically approached this issue by suggesting that the United States and Europe are somehow not interested in peace or that we share responsibility for the war, Kirby told reporters in Washington. In this case, Brazil is parroting Russian and Chinese propaganda without at all looking at the facts. Kirby said the Biden administration hoped Lula and others will urge the Russians to cease the bombing of Ukrainian cities, hospitals and schools, halt the war crimes and the atrocities and, quite frankly, to pull back Russian forces from Ukraine. Both foreign ministers were meeting with Lula in the afternoon.

As part of his effort to end the war, Lula also has withheld munitions to Ukraine, despite a request from Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Lula has said that sending supplies would mean Brazil entering the war, which he seeks to end.

His administration is seeking to simultaneously develop ties with China, Europe and the US while keeping an open door to Russia. However, his recent remarks may have undermined his effort to secure these competing objectives, said Christopher Garman, managing director for the Americas at political risk consultancy Eurasia Group.

It's not a good look, when you have the Russian chancellor side by side, and it's the Russian position, Garman said by phone. The optics do diminish Brazil's credibility as an independent arbiter, but I think that the import is larger precisely because of the current storms that Lula stoked with his comments in China and the UAE. There were already indications that Moscow had appreciated Lula's stance. One of roughly 50 leaked classified documents on the platform Discord that have been viewed by the AP said that, as of late February, Russia's foreign affairs ministry supported Lula's plan to establish a club of supposedly impartial mediators, as it would reject the West's aggressor-victim' paradigm. The item cited electronic surveillance as the source.

Critics have argued that Brazil's position aims to avoid confronting a key supplier of fertilizer for its soybean plantations, exports from which are largely destined for China. Both Russia and China hold permanent seats on the UN Security Council, and Brazil for decades has sought to join them. Lavrov told reporters on Monday that Russia is backing Brazil's bid.

Vinicius Vieira, an international relations professor at the Getulio Vargas Foundation, a university and think tank, said Lula's comments on Ukraine have been badly calibrated and that saying Kyiv should cede Crimea would appear to favour Russia.

The issue of fertilisers is fundamental, but that would be well resolved with Brazil staying neutral, calling all sides to speak, but without saying Ukraine owes something to Russia, Vieira said.

After his stay in Brazil, Lavrov will travel to Venezuela, Cuba and Nicaragua.
Social media frenzy over old maps and other distorted info spurred speculation that an invasion was imminent.

In Brief

The Chinese military held three days of exercises from April 8-10 near Taiwan in apparent response to Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wens April 5 meeting with U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy during her stop in the United States.

These war games, which Beijing described as a warning to pro-independence forces on Taiwan and their foreign allies, were accompanied by the spread of misinformation that exaggerated the extent of Chinese military actions and the degree of instability across the Taiwan Strait.

These claims fanned speculation on Chinese social media platforms that an invasion of Taiwan was imminent  claims that Asia Fact Check Lab found to be false.

In Depth

On the morning of April 8, @IndoPac Info, a Twitter account with more than 117,000 followers, cited Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense as saying that 71 Chinese planes had crossed the median line  an unofficial buffer line in the middle of the Taiwan Strait  as part of Chinas exercises aimed at encircling the island.

The post came at the start of the United Sword military exercises, which included flying bombers over the Taiwan Strait, firing shells from Chinese warships and practicing the enactment of a blockade of the island. China has never renounced the use of force to take back democratically-ruled Taiwan, which it views as part of its territory, and has routinely held drills in the Strait in apparent attempts to show it is ready to carry out those threats.

The war games came right after the April 5 meeting between Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen and U.S House Speaker Kevin McCarthy in California.

The April 8 tweet, written in English, included a map that purportedly showed Chinese forces encircling Taiwan, with warship icons surrounding the island on the north, east and south.

Red and yellow dots marked amphibious staging areas on the island and live-fire exercise areas in nearby waters, respectively; red arrows tracked potential invasion routes. More Twitter users, including several with verified accounts, reposted the map and repeated that Taiwan was encircled by Peoples Liberation Army, or PLA, forces.

The map soon spread across Chinese-language platforms. For example, one netizen posted a copy on Weibo, with the comment that Taiwans army announces that it will fire on those who cross the middle line [of the Taiwan Strait]. [Chinese forces have] not only surpassed, but already surrounded.



Who created the map?

AFCL found that the map tweeted by @IndoPac_Info was originally published by the U.K.s Daily Mail in August 2022, as part of a report on Chinese drills conducted around Taiwan following then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosis visit to the island. The accompanying caption explained that the map showed areas where Chinese troops were likely to land if Beijing were to invade Taiwan.

The difference between @IndoPac_Infos tweet (left) and the original Daily Mail photo (right) is that the latter clearly notes: This graphic shows areas Chinese troops are likely to launch from and where in Taiwan they are likely to land if Beijing did launch an invasion.

But @IndoPac_Info cut out the caption, along with the name of the designer and Mailonline from the maps lower left corner. This use of the map out of context, together with the posts urgent tone, contributed to an impression that the actions on the map were taking place then.

On April 9, U.S. cybersecurity expert Jackie Singh wrote a post how the, claiming that @IndoPac_Info and other Twitter accounts posting similar messages (termed super-spreaders by Singh) were acting in a coordinated effort aimed to spread fear that a Chinese invasion of Taiwan was imminent.

Singh noted that the superspreader tweets shared some similarities: close timing of postings, use of phrases such as fully encircled or completely encircled and of other alarmist language about the military exercises; assignment of blame directly or indirectly to U.S. President Joe Biden or Nancy Pelosi for the Chinese drills; and claims by the user to be in Taiwan or to know Taiwanese who were afraid.

Lev Nachman, an assistant professor at the National Chengchi University in Taipei, also sought to dispel the misinformation, noting that the Daily Mail map was an old image that did not represent the current military exercises.

Was Taiwan planning to fire on any Chinese vessels that crossed the center line?

Taiwan's Minister of National Defense Chiu Kuo-cheng said during a question-and-answer session at the legislature on April 6 that Taiwan continues to maintain the integrity of the median, or center, line. Chiu noted that despite Chinas efforts to blur the center line last year, Taiwan would continue to resist and evict any Chinese military aircraft and warships that cross the line.

Chiu also clarified that Taiwanese forces would only open fire on enemy ships that breach Taiwans territorial space. This space begins 12 nautical miles (22.2 km) from Taiwans coast, which is much closer in than the center line, located 24 nautical miles (44.4 kilometers) from Taiwans coast at the narrowest point.

In fact, during the recent round of Chinese drills, dozens of PLA aircraft were reported to have crossed the center line, and about 20 ships from the Chinese and Taiwanese militaries to have engaged in a standoff near the center linebut without resulting in any serious confrontations.

Did Chinese missiles violate Taiwanese airspace?

A day after the misleading reports broke on Twitter, another post entitled The CCP militarys missiles violated [Taiwans] airspace, yet the Ministry of National Defense is still sleeping?! appeared on the Taiwanese Internet forum PTT.

The author of the post claimed that the information about a Chinese missile launch had first been released in Japan, and that a Japanese friend had provided the trajectory map of the missiles to the author. Are you going to wait until [the missiles] fall to issue an air defense alarm? the post asked. The Ministry of National Defense is really running a fraud syndicate.

Compare the altered PTT chart (left) with the chart published by the Japanese Defense Ministry on August 4, 2022 (right), which detailed the presumed trajectory of missiles launched by China during its military exercises last year.





AFCL found through an online search that the map appeared to be an altered version of one released by the Japanese Ministry of Defense in August 2022. That map was part of a ministry report about a series of missile launches by Beijing on Aug. 4 last year in response to U.S. Speaker Pelosis visit to Taiwan. Tokyo protested at the time that five of the missiles had landed in its exclusive economic zone.

During Aprils wargames, a Chinese amphibious landing ship fired missiles near Taiwans Matsu Island, and multiple PLA units carried out simulated joint precision strikes against specific targets on Taiwan and nearby watersthe first time China is believed to have carried out such an exercise. But unlike last August, there were no media or government reports of missiles encroaching on Taiwan airspace.

Many Taiwanese netizens questioned the credibility of the PTT post, with some attaching the original Japanese map and asking why are the landing points on this map similar to the last? The PTT board administrator quickly labeled the post as pending verification due to a lack of credible sources to verify its claims, the similarity between the two maps, and the fact that the account was only recently activated.

Taiwans Ministry of National Defense subsequently issued a news release confirming that the PTT post was fake news.

Was China behind the misinformation campaign?

Identifying which, if any, state actor or actors are behind an online misinformation campaign is challenging, if not impossible, and this recent case is no exception.

Singh, the cybersecurity expert, noted that the original English-language tweeter @IndoPac_Info is self-described as anti-China with a bio that uses the term multipolarity. That term, which originated with Russian philosopher Aleksandr Dugin, is strongly suggestive of Russian influence, according to Singh.

Addressing the PTT post on missiles, Taiwans defense ministry said it did not rule out that the post could be part of the enemys combat tactics aimed at deliberately undermining the publics support of and confidence in the militarya potential reference to China.

Chinese authorities did release a number of official videos and images during the drills that apparently sought to convey a message of threat and intimidation. On April 9, China Central Television, or CCTV, released a 10-second animation of a simulated joint precision strike against Taiwan by the PLA Eastern Theater Command, showing multiple missiles hitting the island and surrounding waters. The same day, the Chinese state-run Global Times ran an article about the PLAs encirclement drills along with a screenshot from the video; Pakistan-based Chinese diplomat Zhang Heqing then tweeted the same screenshot along with a link to the article.

CCTV released an animated video of a missile attack on Taiwan. Zhang Heping, a Chinese diplomat based in Pakistan, tweeted a screenshot from the video showing explosions in the north and south of Taiwan . [Photo from Zhang Heqing's Twitter account]

Conclusion

AFCL found that while Chinese wargames targeting Taiwan had involved blockade simulations and live fire exercises, there was no evidence that Chinese forces had launched missiles into its airspace as part of the drills or that an invasion of Taiwan was ever imminent.

In this case, cybersecurity experts, political scientists and government agencies helped to combat the spread of such coordinated misinformation. Even so, the tweets and retweets of the altered maps still accumulated millions of views and magnified fears at a time of heightened tension across the Taiwan Strait.

As many of the misleading Twitter posts on the Chinese military exercises have yet to be removed or modified, AFCL reminds readers to always approach any alarmist reports on current events with a questioning, critical eye.

Translated by Shen Ke. Edited by Malcolm Foster.
ADS ADS

The idea of combining a chronograph with a tourbillon is not entirely new. What does differentiate this timepiece from previous creations is its original and bold character. The first idea was to make the chronograph mechanism entirely visible on the dial side, a world premiere, in fact. The magic of a tourbillon was then added.

The result is impressive, a remarkable spectacle and a feast for the eyes. A single pusher activates the chronograph hand, which ticks away the seconds and sails over the rotating flying tourbillon, whose off-centre cage does one revolution per minute. This creation was named Impulsion, a word that highlights the energy that transfers life to the chronograph and the tourbillon and coalesces the two visual effects to produce a full-fledged show as it were.

At the heart of the Impulsion is the in-house Memoris calibre. It bears the Louis Moinet DNA, with its column wheel, classic horizontal clutch, and a single pusher. So, we made sure these characteristics would be maintained. However, it is easier said than done. The movement is made up of 301 parts, many of which had to be completely designed from scratch and manufactured. Incorporating the tourbillon required significant innovations, for example, in terms of energy creation.

Impulsion  Louis Moinet

The volte-face double spring barrel

To ensure sufficient energy, the automatic winding system had to be replaced by a manual double-barrel winding system. The system is called "volte-face" because the two barrels are arranged upside down in series. They release their energy at the same time, delivering a power reserve of ninety-six hours.

Technical and aesthetic outcome

The innovation is coupled with outstanding performance by the complex mechanisms. All in all, it produces beautiful mechanical art never seen before. The three-dimensional architecture of the two powerful mechanisms is expressed on the wrist thanks to the high-end finishing by Louis Moinet craftsmen in collaboration with our traditional partner Concepto. The watch is assembled in our own workshops in Les Breuleux, in the Swiss Jura Mountains. It is signed Moinet, independent watchmaker.

Impulsion  Louis Moinet

A new case

The Impulsion comes in a case that was custom-designed to underscore the originality of its character. The technical and aesthetic design is unique. The heart of the case houses and protects the movement. Not surprisingly, it is made of grade 5 titanium, a material with the best strength to weight ratio. Its lightness naturally contributes to the comfort of the wearer.

The case core is available in Moinet blue or intense black, which contrasts harmoniously with the frame cut in 18-carat pink gold. The hollowed-out lugs and the case middle are as much a part of the Moinet stylistic vocabulary as the quest for minimal weight. A particularly evocative detail is the curved crystal, which reveals the power of the mechanism and optimises the reading of the chronograph indications. As for the chronograph counters, they are disposed in such a way as to blend in smoothly and allow for rapid reading.

Only twenty-eight pieces of the reference LM-114.40.20 will be released by the Louis Moinet workshop in Saint-Blaise. A confidential number, which means that only twenty-eight owners will guard these treasures.
Albert del Rosario, the Philippines former top diplomat who successfully led the country in its international arbitration case over a territorial dispute with China in the South China Sea, died on Tuesday, his family said. He was 83.

The Philippine case was considered groundbreaking because it marked the first time that any country had challenged China in a world court over its territorial claims in the waterway.

His daughter, Dr. Inge del Rosario, confirmed the news to reporters but did not disclose the cause of death. Other sources close to the family said the ex-foreign secretary died while on a flight to San Francisco.

The family of Ambassador Albert Ferreros del Rosario is deeply saddened to announce his passing today, April 18, 2023. The family requests privacy during this difficult time, his daughter said.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo confirmed the news.

He called del Rosario an advocate of protecting and advancing national security and promoting the rights and welfare of Filipinos both in the Philippines and abroad.

You will be missed, Mr. Secretary, he said.

Born in Manila on Nov. 14, 1939, del Rosario, a critic of former President Rodrigo Dutertes foreign policies  particularly in dealing with China  served as the Philippine foreign affairs chief under late President Benigno Aquino III, from 2011 until 2016.

While heading the Department of Foreign Affairs, del Rosario spearheaded the Philippines legal battle against China before the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, Netherlands over a territorial dispute in the West Philippine Sea. The Philippines brought the case before the court in 2012.

In July 2016, the arbitration court ruled in favor of the Philippines, and threw out Chinas expansive claims in the sea, including in waters that reach its neighbors shores. The Philippines calls the part of the South China Sea that is within its territory the West Philippine Sea.

Activists who traveled to the contested Scarborough Shoal and were blocked by the Chinese coast, react after a ruling on the South China Sea by an arbitration court in The Hague in favor of the Philippines, at a restaurant in Manila, July 12, 2016. Credit: Erik De Castro/Reuters





The Chinese, however, ignored the landmark ruling, even as most countries in the West, led by the United States, hailed the award in the Philippines favor. Since then, China has carried on with its military expansionism in the strategic waterway, including building artificial islands.

But President Duterte, who took office within a month before the historic ruling, played it down and chose instead to build up warm bilateral relations with China. Late into his presidency, however, he told the United Nations General Assembly that the arbitration courts ruling was beyond compromise and part of international law.

The Philippines not only lost a patriot but an esteemed diplomat who represented our country with utmost grace, honor, and dignity, Sen. Risa Hontiveros said in paying tribute to del Rosario.

His leadership inspired in us the courage and the creativity to fight for our national interest using lawful and diplomatic means. Defending and protecting our rights in the WPS is an intergenerational battle, one we can win because of the work Sec. del Rosario started, Hontiveros said in a statement, referring to the West Philippine Sea.

Philippine Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario, who spearheaded the filing of a complaint against China, attends a hearing regarding the Philippines and China on the South China Sea, at the Permanent Court of Arbitration at The Hague, the Netherlands, Nov. 24, 2015. Credit: Permanent Court of Arbitration via AP





Jose Antonio Custodio, a military historian at the Institute of Policy, Strategy and Development Studies, a Philippine think-tank, described Del Rosario as a brave man who had endured public insults from Duterte.

He was a hero of the republic for successfully fighting against Chinas illegal claims in our maritime entitlements. May his memory be a blessing, Custodio said.

The think-tank Stratbase ADR Institute, where del Rosario served as chairperson, said the former foreign affairs chief championed democratic values and rules-based international order.

He has fought for an independent foreign policy that prioritizes the interests of the country and of the Filipino people. He believed that diplomacy is a great equalizer in international affairs and that each state had an equal voice in the global community regardless of their political, economic, or military capabilities, the institute said.

Jeoffrey Maitem and Jojo Rinoza contributed to this report from Manila. Edited by Imran Vittachi.

BenarNews is an RFA-affiliated news organization.
Blockage is seen as a form of punishment for leaving Hong Kong amid a crackdown on dissent.

In this Oct. 16, 2022 handout photo, Chinese consulate staffers walk to remove a poster featuring President Xi Jinping during a demonstration by pro-democracy protesters outside the consulate in Manchester, UK

London-based rights group Hong Kong Watch has accused banks of perpetrating a brazen asset grab by withholding up to U.S.$2.4 billion in the pension pots of Hong Kongers who have emigrated to the United Kingdom under its British National Overseas visa scheme.

Banks have written to several people who sought to withdraw funds from the city's compulsory Mandatory Provident Fund savings plan on the grounds that they had left the city permanently, rejecting their requests, according to a recent investigation by the group.

The group called it a form of "punishment" for leaving amid an ongoing crackdown on dissent.

The small group of protesters gathered outside London's Guildhall as Hong Kong financial chief Christopher Hui gave a speech inside, and some ran after Hui's car after he left the venue by the back door.

The letters from the banks cited Hong Kong government guidance issued on March 10, 2021, for the decision, which stated that the British National Overseas passport can no longer be used as part of an application to withdraw accumulated pension savings.

The group blamed China's foreign ministry for revoking recognition of British National Overseas passports in anger at the launch of the visa scheme in January 2021, saying it was in breach of British promises prior to the 1997 handover.

The British government says 160,700 people have emigrated to the United Kingdom on its BNO visa scheme, which includes a pathway to permanent residency and citizenship, since its launch in 2021, which prompted retaliation from Beijing.

The majority of these visas are being used to live in the U.K., with an estimated 60% holding Mandatory Provident Fund accounts, Hong Kong Watch found.

"Taking the average MPF account size (U.S.$28,500), and multiplying it by the number of main BNO visa holders (96,000) there would be around 2.2 billion (U.S.$2.4 billion) of ... assets that Hong Kongers are currently being denied access to," the group's investigative report said.

Sam Goodman, director of policy and advocacy at Hong Kong Watch, said: "The Chinese governments retaliatory action to no longer recognise the British National (Overseas) passport is designed to financially punish those leaving the territory and is a gross violation of its obligations under [the treaty and constitutional arrangements governing the handover]."

"This amounts to a brazen asset grab that is a punitive measure targeting anyone who has left Hong Kong under the BNO visa scheme and is intended to warn others who are thinking of leaving," Goodman said.

In this July 18, 2021 photo, a couple hug at Hong Kong's International Airport a day before the British governments deadline allowing Hong Kongers right to visit the UK if ineligible to enter under an existing immigration route. (Bertha Wang/AFP)





The report singled out HSBC for criticism, saying the bank had been supportive of a draconian national security law imposed on Hong Kong by the Communist Party from July 1, 2020.

"[The bank] has around 30% of the Mandatory Provident Fund market through various schemes, meaning that it would be withholding an estimated 660 million (U.S.$820 million) of assets," it said.

According to Goodman, the bank is failing to satisfy its responsibilities as a trustee of the compulsory pension scheme.

"It must explain to its customers why it is blocking access to their hard-earned savings and the U.K. government must ask why a London-headquartered bank is doing the bidding of an authoritarian government by failing to recognise a valid government issued document," he said in a statement issued with the report.

HSBC hadn't replied to a request for comment from RFA's Cantonese Service by the time of publication.

Veteran Hong Kong journalist Joseph Ngan said it is now looking increasingly unlikely that people leaving the city for good will be given access to their money.

"This is very worrying," Ngan told Radio Free Asia. "It's likely that the authorities will make various excuses, including the fact that the person has applied for British citizenship via the British National Overseas route [to withhold their money]."

"It seems that the Hong Kong government wants to make things as difficult as possible for people emigrating to the U.K. on the British National Overseas route."

A May 2022 report found that nearly one in four Hongkongers who fled the ongoing political crackdown under the ruling Chinese Communist Party still suffered from symptoms of post-traumatic stress syndrome linked to police violence during the 2019 protests and the subsequent fear engendered by the national security law.

The survey of recently arrived migrants by the Hongkongers in Britain group found that 23.8% of respondents reported symptoms of PTSD linked to the 2019 protests and subsequent political crackdown, while nearly 19% reported symptoms of depression and 25.8% reported symptoms of anxiety disorders.

Translated by Luisetta Mudie. Edited by Malcolm Foster.
Fang Bin, to be released later this month, disappeared after filming from Wuhan in early days of COVID-19 outbreak

A pro-democracy activist holds a placard of missing citizen journalist Fang Bin as she protests outside the Chinese liaison office in Hong Kong.

Citizen journalist Fang Bin, who disappeared for three years after filming from hospitals and funeral homes early in the COVID-19 pandemic from the city of Wuhan, had been sentenced in secret to three years in prison, Radio Free Asia has learned.

Fang went incommunicado after a Feb. 1, 2020, livestream from Wuhan healthcare facilities, and made a couple more videos in the days that followed about his interrogation by police, before falling silent for three years, with no news of his fate.

He was among a number of high-profile bloggers who tried to report on the emerging and little-understood viral outbreak from Wuhan. His report also described the pandemic as a "man-made" disaster, calling on people to resist government "tyranny."

Fangs family was notified by police that he will be released from prison on April 30, said a person familiar with the case who declined to be identified for reasons of personal safety.

"Fang Bin was sentenced in secret by the Jiang'an District People's Court to more than three years' imprisonment," the person said. "The family hasn't received any legal documents or a copy of the judgment, however ... and they dont know the nature of the charges."

Feng Bins final YouTube video published before his arrest features this handwritten note, urging the people of China to resist. Credit: RFA screenshot from YouTube





Fang had served his sentence in the Xiaojunshan former juvenile correctional center in Wuhan's Jiangxia district, the source said.

"He may have been held in solitary confinement for more than three years," the person said.

The presiding judge who sentenced Fang, surnamed Lian, declined to comment when contacted by the person to enquire about the case, saying only: "How dare you ask about this kind of thing?" before hanging up, the source said.

"Friends of the family have said Fang Bin will likely go to live with his relatives after his release, and the police told the family to prepare for that," the person said.

Disaster of the century

Wuhan resident Wang Xiaohua said Fang had reported on "the disaster of the century" through his live-streamed video reports to the rest of the world during the Wuhan lockdown.

Fang had been reporting from the Wuhan No. 5 Hospital and a funeral home in Wuchang, part of the three-city conurbation that makes up Wuhan, at the time, and watched staff move out eight dead bodies in the space of five minutes, his video report showed.

Covid-19 coronavirus patients lie on hospital beds in the lobby of the Chongqing No. 5 People's Hospital. Credit: AFP





"He was the first to make a video saying publicly that the Chinese Communist Party's authoritarian rule had given rise to the outbreak," Wang said. "He launched a nationwide citizen journalism effort, and let people see the dead bodies in the hospital, counting them, one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight  it was shocking."

Fangs disappearance came a few days after the detention of another citizen journalist, Chen Qiushi, who had been interviewing people around the new mega hospitals being thrown up at great speed in Wuhan.

Fellow citizen journalist Kcriss Li continued reporting from the scene for a few more weeks after that, until his dramatic, live-streamed chase by police on Feb. 26.

Lawyer-turned-reporter Zhang Zhan was detained and taken back to Shanghai, where there are ongoing concerns about her health in prison following months of on-off hunger-striking and forced feeding.

The U.S. The Congressional-Executive Commission on China called for Fang's release in its annual report last November, along with all those detained for reporting on the pandemic in China.

Translated by Luisetta Mudie. Edited by Malcolm Foster.
In this March 12, 2021 photo, people stand on Myanmar's side of a bridge over the Tiau River, a border between India and Myanmar, at Zokhawthar border in India's northeastern state of Mizoram.

India has locked the gates to key border crossings with Myanmars Chin state after three Indian citizens were killed in the state last month, according to sources from the area.

The closure comes amid an intensified military offensive against rebel forces in Chin state, where on April 10, a junta jet dropped bombs near a high school in Falam township, killing nine civilians and injuring four others.

Thousands of Myanmar nationals have fled fighting and taken refuge across the border in Indias Mizoram state.

Sources told RFA Burmese that on March 22, the charred remains of three Myanmar-born ethnic Chin women holding Indian citizenship were discovered in Matupi. An investigation identified the victims as C. Biaksuii, 48, Bablu Talukdar, 37, and B. Lathafamkima, 44, but has yet to determine who is responsible for their deaths.

In the aftermath of the discovery, civil society organizations in Mizoram issued a statement warning Indian nationals against traveling into Myanmar and on April 6, Indian authorities shuttered the two main border gates at Matupis Hlungmang and Gawnglaung villages, residents told RFA. Additionally, crossings accessed from the Chin towns of Rihkhawdar and Thantalan were also closed by the Indian side, they said.

A resident of Matupi, who declined to be named for security reasons, told RFA that the closure of the border gates had cut off access to food, medical treatment, and refuge for inhabitants of the township.

The closure of the border is mostly related to the murder of Indian nationals, the resident said. Its caused a lot of trouble for Myanmar refugees in Matupi. They cant enter the Indian side for now.

Attempts by RFA to contact Thant Zin, the juntas social affairs minister and spokesman for Chin state, for comment on the measures taken to restrict border crossings went unanswered Tuesday.

In this March 12, 2021 photo, Indian army soldiers patrol along the banks of the Tiau River, a natural border between India and Myanmar, close to the Zokhawthar border in India's northeastern state of Mizoram. Credit: Jacob Khawlhring/AFP Salai Dokhar, the founder of India-based aid group India For Myanmar, urged Myanmar nationals in India to refrain from illegal activities, saying that doing so could impact refugees who have already fled across the border.

What I mean by illegal includes doing business illegally, committing crimes and that sort of activity, Dokhar told RFA. I urge all Myanmar refugees not to become involved in such activities because one persons crime can impact tens of thousands of refugees sheltering in India.

Arrests in Manipur

Following the deaths of the three Indian nationals, residents of Indias Manipur state, which also borders Chin state to the north, said that they have seen authorities conduct a series of arrests of Myanmar nationals on the grounds of illegal immigration.

In one incident on April 6, authorities in Manipur arrested a group of six men, 11 women, and six children from Myanmar who had fled across the border to Langkaur township and were working in the local weaving industry, Myanmar refugees told RFA.

The reason for their arrest is that they did not have permission to stay in the town, a Myanmar national in Langkaur told RFA. They were supposed to stay in temporary refugee shelters being built by the Manipur government. They are being kept in a temporary detention center for now and will be moved to the refugee shelters once they are complete.

Police in Manipur began hunting Myanmar nationals living in the state at the start of the year and, as of the beginning of March, had arrested around 170 people, according to aid workers assisting refugees.

In this March 15, 2021 photo, houses in Myanmar are seen through barbed wires along the banks of the Tiau River, a natural border between India and Myanmar in India's northeastern state of Mizoram. Credit: Sajjad Hussain/AFP On March 26, Manipur government officials visited villages in Moreh township where Myanmar refugees are sheltering to announce the construction of the camps, which they said will be able to accommodate half of the more than 10,000 who have fled across the border into the state.

They came and took pictures of the refugees and issued refugee identity cards to them  saying that it will be more secure to live there, said a refugee in Moreh, who spoke to RFA on condition of anonymity. They have made a list of the refugees, too. We are currently staying near the villages along the border.

RFA emailed the Indian Embassy in Yangon inquiring after the border closure and the arrests of refugees in Manipur, but had yet to receive a response as of Tuesday evening.

According to Chin civil society organizations, around 60,000 people have been displaced by fighting in Chin state, while some 50,000 others have fled across the border to Mizoram and Manipur states in India.

Translated by Myo Min Aung. Edited by Joshua Lipes and Malcolm Foster.
A brutal airstrike by the Myanmar military on civilians in northwestern Myanmars Sagaing region a week ago has been reported by news outlets around the world. The attack on residents of Pa Zi Gyi village attending the opening ceremony for a public administration building killed an estimated 200 people, including 40 minors.

Miemie Winn Byrd, a Honolulu-based Asia-Pacific security analyst and retired Burmese-American lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army, says the aerial assault is unacceptable and a war crime because junta forces targeted civilians. Byrd spoke with RFA Burmese reporter Khin Khin Ei about what action the international community should take to try to stop the juntas atrocities against civilians. The interview has been edited for length and clarity.

RFA: Almost 200 civilians, including women and children, were killed during an aerial attack on April 11 by Myanmar junta forces as the people celebrated the opening of an administrative building in Sagaing regions Pa Zi Gyi village. Whats your take on this?

Byrd: I must say that its an extremely tragic incident because those villagers were doing a charity event when the military junta air-raided them. Its really a brutal act. It was actually a peaceful gathering. The civilians were not armed. Thats why the attack on these innocent and unarmed civilians is definitely a war crime, something completely unacceptable by any means. I strongly condemn such an atrocity. Even a small publication like the Honolulu newspaper here reported that horrible incident of the Myanmar junta on its front page. This indicates that the whole world is acknowledging this attack and condemning such brutality of the military junta. The world has become more and more aware of the juntas cowardice atrocity.

RFA: The junta said it attacked the crowd because the civilians were involved with the anti-junta Peoples Defense Forces, but it also claimed that the aerial assault triggered further explosions because shots hit weapons and ammunition stored on the ground. What do you make of this explanation?

Byrd: They simply dont have the evidence to back their claim. The claim that weapons and ammunition were stored there is just a lame excuse of the military junta. Attacking the peaceful gathering of innocent civilians, like I said earlier, is a very wrong act already. And it is evident that they had deliberately targeted the civilians. The more brutality the junta uses to oppress, the more bitter the people feel towards them. Myanmar people will never accept them, as a consequence. Its a negative result for the military council. I think they know that they are in a bad situation. Thats why they have committed such brutal crimes as their last straw. Since they are used to such brutal strategies, we can say that their administration is losing strength.



RFA: Have there been any similar such incidents involving international military organizations?



Byrd: Well, when we plan a military operation, we always have to consider the collateral damage. If there is any civilian presence near the target, we do not go forward with the operation because although the plan may be tactically successful in the short term, we will receive the bitterness of the people in the long run. As I have always said, a war is not won by means of superior firepower. It is won only with the support of the people and by means of politics. Thats why what the Myanmar military is doing appears to me that they do not understand the way of war. They understand the tactical level, but they dont know the strategic level to win a war. Thats why their strategies always go backwards from what we have learned.



RFA: How many military organizations around the world are carrying out horrendous activities like those of the Myanmar junta? Are there ways to stop them from committing such atrocities?

Byrd: There are some militaries in Syria like them. The North Koreans may be acting similarly, too, but we dont know for sure as we cannot infiltrate the interior of North Korean affairs. But it can be concluded that only the bad guys commit such brutal crimes. The countries where the people love and respect the government and the developed countries do not have such atrocious militaries. The more the Myanmar military oppresses the people in such brutal tactics, the more deteriorated the country becomes and the lower its economy declines to a point of never coming back to progress. The children and the Myanmar people will lose their opportunities to be able to go abroad and learn in international countries, something they used to have before. These will never be possible for them again. The economy will decline. Since they do not have the support of the people, they wont be able to develop the country.



RFA: The junta chief, Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, has said he will crush the armed anti-regime forces and ethnic armed groups supporting them. How much will he accomplish in doing so?

Byrd: If they could totally crush resistance forces by using their military strength like he said, there would not be any ethnic armed groups left by now, right? They havent been able to do that for over 70 years. The situation has worsened for them as 90% of the whole country is resisting them in addition to the ethnic armed groups. It doesnt matter what he said; his administration is losing strength. Its questionable whether he could accomplish what he claimed.



RFA: How do you evaluate the situation of Myanmar in terms of eradicating the military dictatorship?

Byrd: I think the military is aiming to use superior firepower to solve the crisis, but it is actually a political problem. Since its a political problem, the trust and support of the people play a major role. They wont be able to cope with the crisis because 90% of the people are opposing them.



RFA: What should the international community do to take effective action against the Myanmar military?

Byrd: Well, the military junta is already under a lot of international pressure. They have been being taken into action at the International Court of Justice, and sanctions and embargoes have been imposed against them. The junta has just little freedom left. The more atrocities the junta commits, the more international support the resistance forces receive. Like I said, the Burma Act was sped up when the news of the execution of political activists such as Ko Jimmy and Zayar Thaw spread around the world. The more brutally they act, the clearer the international community sees their atrocities and the more support they give to the people and the resistance groups.



RFA: What are the necessary components for the success of the peoples Spring Revolution, the protests that began in early 2021 in opposition to the militarys coup d'etat on Feb. 1, 2021?

Byrd: The most important thing is for the people to be able to cooperate in the resistance. The more united the revolution the people have become, the faster the success will be. The people will have to cooperate and defy the military junta in any way possible.

Translated by Myo Min Aung for RFA Burmese. Edited by Roseanne Gerin and Matt Reed.
Hkalam Samson was sentenced to six years in prison this month.

The U.S. State Department has condemned the six year prison sentence handed down to Myanmar religious leader the Rev. Dr. Hkalam Samson.

Myitkying Prison Court in Kachin State sentenced him on April 7, based on charges of alleged terrorism, unlawful association and inciting opposition to the military regime.

Immediately after the judgment his wife said Dr. Samson had committed no crime.

Despite his innocence, the verdict has been handed down. We accept it as Gods will, Zhon Nyoir told RFA.

His lawyer, Dong Nang, said she had lodged an appeal against the judgment.

We have already given the application and we have to appeal until the end. I will do everything I can, she said.

In a statement Monday, a State Department spokesperson called the charges manufactured and demanded Dr. Samsons immediate release.

Burmas brutal military regime has targeted Rev. Dr. Samson, a prominent, well-respected religious figure, for his courageous work, including advocating for freedom of religion or belief, the statement said, noting Dr. Samsons dedication to supporting the peace process, fighting drug abuse in Myanmar, lobbying for justice and equality for Christians in Kachin State and across the country, and facilitating the safe return of over 100,000 internally displaced persons to their homes in Kachin.

The 65-year-old is a former president of the Kachin Baptist Convention and president of the Kachin National Consultative Assembly.

Dr. Samson suffers from congenital pneumonia and high blood pressure.

He was arrested at Mandalay International Airport last December, on his way to Thailand for medical treatment. Authorities told him his name was on a no-fly list and questioned him overnight at Central Regional Military Command headquarters.

The following day, authorities flew him back to Myitkyina, the capital of Kachin state, where he was again arrested.

At the time, Dr. Samson still worked as an advisor for the Kachin Baptist Convention, which has about 400,000 members, most of whom are ethnic Kachin.

He was also president of the Kachin National Consultative Assembly, a group of local religious and political leaders who help foster communication between the Kachin Independence Organization, an ethnic Kachin political group, and the local community.

In October last year, he helped organize hospital treatment and funerals for people injured and killed in a junta airstrike on an annual concert hosted by the Kachin Independence Organization. The group's armed wing has been actively fighting against junta troops since the coup as well as training anti-regime Peoples Defense Forces.

More than 60 people died during the attack, residents said at the time.

In 2017, Dr. Samson visited the U.S. White House and thanked Donald Trump for imposing travel bans on senior Myanmar military commanders involved in a crackdown on Rohingya Muslims. He also appealed to the then-president to take action against religious persecution in Myanmar and to support the countrys transition to genuine democracy.

He was sued by Major Thu Aung Zaw of the juntas Northern Regional Military Command, based in Kachin state, for speaking about Myanmars religious and human rights situation during the meeting but the case was later dropped.

The U.S. State Department ended Mondays statement by calling on Myanmars junta to stop the violence and persecution of civil and religious activists that have marked the more-than-two-years since the military seized power in a coup.

We urge the regime to cease its unconscionable repression against religious actors, communities, and houses of worship in Burma and end the violence, the statement said.

Translated by RFA Burmese. Edited by Mike Firn.
The move comes as Southeast Asian nations make plans to evacuate their workers from the island.

Around 200 U.S. military advisers have been deployed to Taiwan, reportedly to train local troops against potential attacks from China, five times the number of American personnel based on the island at the end of last year.

U.S. advisers had been sighted as early as the end of March at a base in Kaohsiung's Gangshan District, according to local media reports.

The advisers have been primarily assigned to boot camps and reserve brigades, the official Central News Agency (CNA) quoted unnamed sources within the armed forces as saying.

Currently stationed at bases across Taiwan, they will provide practical consultations on training methods to the Taiwanese military, CNA reported.

However Wendell Minnick, Taipei-based editor of the China in Arms military blog, told Radio Free Asia that the teams are in Taiwan for observation and evaluation, not training troops.

The Pentagons plans to deploy military advisers to Taiwan were first revealed in February. It is understood that they were prearranged for months and not connected to the latest developments in the Taiwan Strait, such as Chinas recent military exercises.

Soldiers from Taiwan's special forces move through colored smoke during a military exercise in Taipei, Taiwan, on Dec 14, 2017. Credit: AP Photo/Chiang Ying-ying





Taiwan also plans to send a combined arms battalion to the United States for training in the second half of this year, it was reported earlier.

Taiwans military needs as much direct exposure to other militaries as possible as it has been isolated for over 40 years and its capability development has languished as a result, said Grant Newsham, a former U.S. Marine colonel in an interview with Radio Free Asia.

In his opinion, both militaries should work on a joint operation planning for future contingencies.

Several prominent figures in the U.S. military have predicted different timelines for a possible Chinese invasion and urged the islands leadership to build up defense capabilities.

Beijing considers Taiwan a Chinese province and threatens to unify it with the mainland, by force if needed.

Air force soldiers load U.S. made Harpoon AGM-84 anti-ship missiles at a combat readiness mission during a press invited event at the airbase in Hualien, Taiwan, August 17, 2022. Credit: Reuters





In the latest development, Chinas Foreign Ministry has just protested against Taiwans plan to purchase up to 400 land-launched Harpoon missiles from the United States.

Earlier on Tuesday, Bloomberg News cited the U.S.-Taiwan Business Council and people familiar with the matter saying that this purchase, which is in the process of being finalized, would complete an arms deal approved by the U.S. Congress in 2020.

Chinese Foreign Ministrys spokesman Wang Wenbin, when asked about the deal, said U.S.-Taiwan military ties and the U.S. arms sales to Taiwan seriously violated Chinas sovereignty and security interests, as well as threatened peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

China is strongly dissatisfied and firmly opposes it, Wang told a press briefing in Beijing.

Evacuating foreign workers

Meanwhile, several Southeast Asian governments are reportedly putting their own contingency plans in place for a potential Chinese invasion of Taiwan.

Indonesia is working on an emergency plan to evacuate 350,000 Indonesian nationals from Taiwan if war breaks out, reported Kompas newspaper.

The paper quoted Judha Nugraha, Director of the Civil Protection Bureau at Indonesias Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as saying last Friday that a contingency plan has been drawn up in collaboration with the Indonesian Economic and Trade Office in Taipei.

Jakarta continues to closely monitor the situation, he said, adding that hundreds of thousands of Indonesians living nearby such as in Hong Kong, South Korea and Japan would also have to be evacuated should there be a war in Taiwan.

Evacuating such a large number of people would be extremely complicated, the official said.

The Philippines has also confirmed it has an evacuation plan for 150,000 Filipinos currently living in Taiwan.

The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs on Monday said that contingency plans are in place in all places where there are high numbers of OFWs, an acronym for Overseas Foreign Workers.

Protesters carry signs in the shape of robots during a rally held by Philippine, Indonesian, Vietnamese, and Thai migrant workers in Taipei, December 11, 2011.

Credit: Reuters/Sheng-fa Lin

There are around 730,000 migrant workers from Southeast Asia currently in Taiwan, representing 3% of the population, according to official statistics.

The largest groups are from Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines and Thailand.

There are around 200,000 migrant workers from Vietnam and more than 60,000 from Thailand living in Taiwan. So far the Vietnamese and Thai governments have not announced any emergency plans for their citizens.

The bloc of Southeast Asian nations ASEAN is currently still working on two documents about the protection of migrant workers during a crisis and the protection of migrant workers on fishing vessels.

Edited by Mike Firn.
Wearing a short-sleeved T-shirt, shorts and sandals, the man with the glasses whistled as he slid onto the saddle of his Fino motorbike, backed it away from his Bangkok rental home and rode off.

Those were the last images captured by the security camera of blogger Duong Van Thai. The camera screen showed the footage was recorded at 4:37 a.m. on April 13, 2023  but the timestamp was almost certainly inaccurate.

The video showed Thai motoring away during daylight, and neighbors said he left home at around 11 a.m. on Thursday. Later that day, he live-streamed for about 20 minutes on his YouTube channel with nearly 120,000 followers. He talked about last weeks trial of blogger Nguyen Lan Thang and the U.S. secretary of states visit to Vietnam.

Calls to his mobile phone and messages on WhatsApp on Thursday afternoon went unanswered, several of his friends said, and he never returned home.

On Sunday, police in Vietnams northern province of Ha Tinh announced they had found a person without identification illegally entering the country via trails on its border with Laos. They confirmed that the person was named Duong Van Thai, born in 1982.

Duong Van Thai, also known as Thai Van Duong, had been applying for refugee status with the United Nations refugee agencys office in Bangkok. Thailand for many decades has served as an informal safe haven for political refugees in the region.

The 41-year-old fled Vietnam in either 2018 or early 2019 fearing political persecution for his many blog posts and videos that criticized the government and leaders of the Communist Party on Facebook and YouTube.

Now it appears that he was abducted and forced to return to Vietnam.

Everything looks normal at rental home

Grace Bui, a Vietnamese American human rights activist living in Thailand, told Radio Free Asia that she and her friends went to Thai's home on Monday.

Inside his room, everything looks normal, just like Duong has just gotten up in the morning and gone out for a quick walk, she said. We found the bag he often carried when going out. His wallet was still in the bag, and his UN card and bank cards were still in the wallet. We found his laptop also.

The UN card is a refugee card issued by the UN High Commissioner of Refugees office in Bangkok to people who have refugee status and are waiting to be resettled in a third country.

The back of refugee card has text in both English and Thai that reads as follows:

The bearer of this card is related to UNHCR, registered and documented under the UN General Assemblys authorization, and cannot be forced to return to their country of origin. All support to the bearer is highly appreciated.

All the belongings in his room seemed to show that Thai was not prepared for a long trip back to Vietnam, where he faces a heavy sentence for his criticism against the government and the ruling Communist Party.

A close friend of Thai said that Thai had a stable life in Thailand and very much wanted to resettle in a third country. He had no plans to return to Vietnam, according to Hoang Trong Man, also known as Man Hien Phap.

I would like to affirm that Mr. Duong Van Thai did not intend to return to Vietnam because if he had had such a plan, he would have told us and collected some belongings before he left, he said.

Pre-disappearance signs

Several of Thais friends told RFA that he had shared with them a piece of great news on Wednesday. He did an interview with UNHCR officials, who asked if he had any relatives in Australia. Thai replied that he wanted to resettle in the United States, where his girlfriend lived.

Bui, who was in regular contact with Thai before his disappearance, told RFA that it was very unlikely that Thai would return to Vietnam a day after doing an immigration interview with UNHCR.

Duong [Thai] never intended to return to Vietnam, and if you ask Duong's friends, you will know that he never wanted to go back to Vietnam, she said.

Nguyen Xuan Kim, another Vietnamese refugee in Thailand and a close friend of Thais, said that around two weeks before going missing, he shared his feelings of insecurity just after he posted videos about political infighting in Vietnam.

His recent posts referred to many senior officials of the Ministry of Public Security, about the general who had an extramarital affair, Kim said. He said briefly that he should be vigilant just in case but did not go into the specifics.

Thai told Kim that one of his neighbors said that on April 6, a man riding a motorbike with a Chiang Rai provincial number plate approached Thais home to film and take photos. The man spoke Thai but with a strange accent, the neighbor told Kim.

Kim told RFA on Tuesday that Thai gave him access to his rental homes security camera system, some social media accounts and some electronic devices. However, Kim said he hasnt been able to access much of the data.

Who was involved?

A statement from Amnesty Internationals regional office expressed concern over the information about Thais arrest in Vietnam, particularly given that the UNHCR had recognized his refugee status.

Viet Nam keeps close tabs on dissidents and has in the past shown that it is not above tracking and surveilling them beyond its borders. Vietnamese refugees living in Thailand who fled the country because of the governments repression must be protected and should not have to live in constant fear, the group said in the statement sent to RFA on Tuesday.

RFA contacted UNHCR and its office in Thailand, as well as the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs, via email to inquire about Thai's case but hasnt received a response.

Phil Robertson, the deputy Asia director of Human Rights Watch, urged the Thai government to clarify Thais case.

There are so many highly troubling questions about the abduction of Thai Van Duong, but what is not in dispute is he was living in Thailand as a UNHCR-recognized refugee entitled to full protection, he said in an email to RFA on Tuesday.

How he was forced from Thai soil to Vietnam, who was involved, and when and where did it happen are urgent matters that the Thai government must immediately investigate.

Robertson said he fears that Thais case is yet another example that a so-called swap mart exists between Thailand and repressive neighboring countries like Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos.

It is very unlikely that Vietnam government agents could have just come into Thailand and snatched a dissident without some local Thai officials knowing about this, and agreeing to look the other way, he said.

Whoever did this clearly broke both Thai and international law that prohibits sending a person back to where they will face persecution, torture, and abuse, and there is no doubt all those things lie in the future for Thai Van Duong in the hands of the Vietnamese police, he said. There must be accountability to end this kind of hunting of refugees and asylum seekers in Thailand, starting with this case.

Bui said representatives of international rights organizations in Bangkok have met in the past to discuss how to support and protect refugees in Thailand.

Thai Immigration Police and responsible agencies in Vietnam havent responded to RFAs emails sent on Saturday requesting comment.

Translated by Anna Vu. Edited by Matt Reed and Malcolm Foster.
Welcome back to the China In Eurasia briefing, an RFE/RL newsletter tracking Chinas resurgent influence from Eastern Europe to Central Asia. To subscribe, click here.

Im RFE/RL correspondent Reid Standish and heres what Im following right now.

Beijing, Moscow, And Leaked Documents

Along with my colleagues at Systema, RFE/RL's Russian investigative unit, we obtained never before reported documents and recordings from closed-door meetings in 2017 and 2019 between Chinese and Russian officials where they share methods and tactics for monitoring dissent and controlling the Internet.

Finding Perspective: China and Russias growing ties are no secret, but the documents provide a unique window into the practical level of cooperation under way between China and Russia when it comes to monitoring and restricting their respective Internets.

Among some of the key findings, Russian officials are seen asking for advice and practical know-how from their Chinese counterparts on a range of topics, including disrupting circumvention tools like VPNs and Tor, cracking encrypted Internet traffic, and seeking tips from China's experience in regulating messaging platforms.

LISTEN: Beijing and Moscows deepening ties are no secret, but what do recently leaked Pentagon documents tell us about where their burgeoning military partnership is headed? Dennis Wilder, former Asia adviser to U.S. President George W. Bush, joins host Reid Standish.

In another instance, in July 2017, Aleksandr Zharov, who served as the head of Roskomnadzor until 2020, asks a Chinese delegation to help arrange a visit for Russian specialists to China, where they could study the operations of the Golden Shield Project -- the all-encompassing Internet censorship and surveillance system that helps make up what is colloquially known as Chinas Great Firewall.

In turn, Chinese officials sought Russian expertise on regulating media and dealing with popular dissent, including monitoring protests led by opposition figure Aleksei Navalny.

In another 2019 exchange, officials from the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) also made requests to Roskomnadzor to block a variety of China-related links to news articles and interviews that they had deemed to be of a dangerous nature and harmful to the public interest.

Why It Matters: Beijing and Moscow have been deepening their ties for the past decade and controlling the flow of information online has been a focal point of that cooperation since Chinese leader Xi Jinpings first trip to Russia as leader in 2013.

The documents shed new light on a pivotal time inside Russia and point to how Russia has sought to emulate China in exerting control over its people in the social media age.

For years, the Russian government has been putting in place new measures to smother freedom of speech online, but many have stumbled in practice. But in 2019, those efforts reached a zenith when a controversial sovereign Internet law went into force that allowed Moscow to tighten control over the countrys Internet by routing web traffic through state-controlled infrastructure and creating a national system of domain names.

While many of Russia's measures are still a far cry from those inside China, they have continued to be more technologically advanced and restrictive, a process that has accelerated since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022.

Expert Corner: Who Speaks For Europe?

Readers asked: French President Emmanuel Macron got into hot water over his comments about Taiwan. Weve also recently seen various other -- sometimes contradictory -- comments coming from European Union and European officials. Why does this seem to happen when it comes to China?

To find out more, I asked Rikard Jozwiak, RFE/RLs Europe editor:

It happens because there really isnt a coherent policy toward China. It is sometimes a rival, notably when it comes to geopolitics, and sometimes a partner in areas such as climate change mitigation. And then, of course, there is economic dependence on Beijing that leads to some EU member states not wanting to be too harsh on China. EU foreign policy is made up via the lowest common denominator as all the 27 EU capitals need to green-light any move. For China, this means that you have a mishmash of interests, ideas, and fears that makes outsiders unsure about what Europes China policy really is.

I also think that the EU has failed to formulate a coherent Taiwan policy and this adds to the mixed messages coming out from Europe. Macron said that Europe should not get caught up in a conflict over the island, but have he and fellow European leaders drawn up any plans on what Brussels will do if China were to attack? Its still unclear what Europes red lines would be and how it would react.

Do you have a question about Chinas growing footprint in Eurasia? Send it to me at StandishR@rferl.org or reply directly to this e-mail and Ill get it answered by leading experts and policymakers.

Three More Stories From Eurasia

1. The Pentagon Leaks

China approved the provision of lethal aid to Russia for its war in Ukraine but wanted any shipments to remain a secret, according to leaked U.S. government documents.

What You Need To Know: The recently leaked trove of classified Pentagon documents that contain assessments and reports from Americas intelligence agencies shows that Beijing had approved the incremental provision of weapons to Moscow, which it would disguise as civilian items.

That comes from a February 23 top-secret intelligence summary that The Washington Post reported was gathered by U.S. agents eavesdropping on discussions by Russias secret service. The Russians said Chinas central military commission wanted the shipments to remain secret.

Among other revelations, a separate file in the trove of leaked documents said Beijing would consider a significant Ukrainian strike with American or NATO weapons on Russian territory as an escalation of the conflict that would merit sending arms to Russia.

The timing is notable. A public U.S.-led campaign over a potential Chinese arms transfer accelerated in late February, and shortly after that document circulated within the U.S. government NBC News reported that the U.S. information about the plan to obtain lethal aid from China was gleaned from Russian officials.

Whats less clear is if the transfers are taking place or if the public pressure on China has worked.

Reports based on trade data show private sales of small-scale weapons from China to Russia, and senior Ukrainian officials have said their forces are finding a growing number of components from China in Russian weapons on the battlefield.

Whether Chinese covert efforts are under way or not, defense cooperation between China and Russia is set to grow. A large portion of the Chinese delegation for Xis Moscow summit in March were defense officials, and Chinese Defense Minister Li Shangfu was in Russia on April 16 to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu.

2. Lula's 'Peace Club'

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva wrapped up a state visit to China, where he sought to position himself as a peace broker in the ongoing war in Ukraine while attempting to elevate Brazil's global status and boost economic ties with Beijing.

The Details: As I reported here, a key piece of Lula's outreach is courting political backing for his proposal that Brazil and other developing countries, including China, form a peace club to broker a deal to end the war in Ukraine.

Analysts, however, remain skeptical about the chances of Lula's peace proposal, which is unlikely to gain support from Kyiv and its backers given China's close ties with Russia and past comments from the Brazilian leader that Ukraine should cede Crimea -- which was forcibly annexed by Moscow in 2014 -- as a means to reach a deal.

Beyond the diplomacy push from Lula, the visit allowed him to shore up Brazils economic and political ties with China, as he left Beijing with a slew of new agreements.

But as Carlos Solar, a senior fellow at the Royal United Services Institute, told me, Lula is still hedging his bets, having already made a trip to Washington to meet with U.S. President Joe Biden and made moves to position Brazil to be a regional power in Latin America.

[Lula] needs this frenzy of deals in China and talks with Xi in part to show his public that he's still an influential guy around the world, Solar said. But when you look more closely, you can see that he is putting his eggs in different baskets.

3. Frustrated By The Taliban, Interested In Afghanistan

Frustrated by the Talibans reluctance to take action against an array of militants, including a strengthening Islamic State group, Afghanistan's neighbors have resolved to come up with a joint strategy to counter security threats emanating from the country.

What It Means: Top diplomats from Russia, China, Iran, and Pakistan attended an April 13 conference that focused on ensuring regional security in light of the situation in Afghanistan.

Russia and China are among the few countries that have kept their diplomatic missions in Kabul since the Taliban retook power, but lingering frustrations with the group as a partner have been boiling up.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry said it was ready to work more closely with Afghanistans neighbors and the international community, and Beijing also expressed hope that the Taliban would continue working actively to meet Afghans' interests and the international communitys expectations for an open and inclusive political structure.

China has a growing interest in the countrys resources -- having secured rights for mining and oil and gas exploration -- but security concerns have kept those projects mostly on paper for the time being.

Still, the cash-strapped Taliban is hoping that it can draw in more Chinese interest, recently floating progress on a potential $10 billion investment from the China Petroleum Economics and Information Research Center (CPEIC) in Afghanistans lithium deposits.

Few details beyond a Taliban press release were offered, but even if something is inked, realizing the project -- and others with China -- is still a distant prospect due to the countrys tough security situation.

Across The Supercontinent

A New Case In Pakistan: A Chinese man has been arrested in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province after an angry mob accused him of blasphemy and tried to enter a camp near the construction site of the Dasu Dam, the biggest hydropower project in Pakistan, which involves both Chinese and Pakistani workers.

Police filed a blasphemy charge against the Chinese man, RFE/RL's Radio Mashaal reported.

Internal Review: Hikvisions human rights investigator admits the company's Chinese police contracts in Xinjiang explicitly target Uyghurs as a group.

The Chinese surveillance giant has repeatedly denied reports that the company is complicit in human rights abuses targeting Uyghurs, but documents obtained by technology trade publication IPVM show otherwise.

Brussels To Beijing: The EU lodged a protest with China after police detained veteran rights lawyer Yu Wensheng and his activist wife, Xu Yan, ahead of an April 13 meeting with its diplomats in China, Radio Free Asia reports.

Macron In China: Looking to catch up on Macrons trip to China earlier this month? Listen to the last episode of Talking China In Eurasia, where guest Rikard Jozwiak explained why the French president thinks he can split China and Russia and where he fits among Europes large groups of actors looking to engage and pressure Beijing.

One Thing To Watch

Chinas economic growth is exceeding expectations. GDP grew 4.5 percent year on year in the first quarter. Strong growth in exports and infrastructure investment, as well as a rebound in retail consumption and property prices, are said to be driving the recovery.

That momentum looks set to continue, but economists have warned that consumption and the property sector might struggle to maintain strong growth, while exports could be threatened by weaker demand in developed economies.

Thats all from me for now. Dont forget to send me any questions, comments, or tips that you might have.

Until next time,

Reid Standish

If you enjoyed this briefing and don't want to miss the next edition, subscribe here. It will be sent to your inbox every other Wednesday.
The European Parliament on April 18 approved a decision on visa liberalization that will allow citizens of Kosovo to travel to most European countries without a visa by January 2024 at the latest.

The vote by the EU legislature in Strasbourg, France, was the last legal hurdle to granting visa-free travel in the 26-country Schengen area to Kosovar citizens after member states gave their backing in March.

Under the new rules, people who hold a Kosovo passport will be able to travel to and within the Schengen zone, which includes 22 EU member states and the non-EU countries Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland, for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

"Visa liberalization is now a reality," Kosovo's government said in a statement, while Kosovar President Vjosa Osmani said on Twitter that the decision "is a victory for the people of Kosovo, for democracy and for European unity."

In a separate message on Facebook, she said, "This decision is due to the people of Kosovo, the unprecedented determination shown over the years, despite various delays and injustices."

A signing ceremony will take place on April 19 featuring representatives of the European Parliament and the EU Council of Ministers -- two institutions that were instrumental in the approval of the abolition of the visa regime for Kosovo.

The visa exemption will enter force parallel with the implementation of the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) but no later than January 1, 2024.

When the decision was agreed by the European Parliament and the EU Council of Ministers in December, it was thought the ETIAS system would be operational on November 1, 2023, but its implementation has been delayed.

Kosovo is the last country in the Western Balkans to be granted visa-free travel to the Schengen zone. It joins other countries in the region whose citizens have enjoyed freedom of movement for years.

Serbia, Montenegro, and North Macedonia have not had visa requirements since December 2009, and Albania and Bosnia-Herzegovina joined Schengen in December 2010.

The European Commission in 2018 recommended the abolition of the visa regime with Kosovo, but the political decision was held up by some EU member states.

Visa liberalization for Kosovo was revived after Russia's invasion of Ukraine when the EU took several positive steps toward the region to try to reduce Russia's influence.

With reporting by dpa, AFP, and AP
The Egyptian Ministry of Education announced on Tuesday the postponement of final exams for students of Thanaweya Amma (Grade 12) and high school diplomas in Sudan until the security situation stabilises.
An Iranian rights group says three people sentenced to death in the case of the November 3 killing of Basij militia member Ruhollah Ajamian in Karaj have had their penalties changed to prison time, while several others had their punishments cut as well after a Supreme Court-ordered review of the case.

The Telegram channel called the Committee To Follow Up On The Status Of Detainees said on April 18 that the changes to the sentences came after the Islamic Revolutionary Court of Karaj reexamined the cases of 16 defendants accused of causing Ajamian's death during an anti-government demonstration.

Babak Paknia, one of the lawyers who had clients in the cases, said on Twitter that one defendant, Hamid Qarahasanlou, had their penalty changed from death to 15 years in prison, while two others, Reza Aria and Hossein Mohammadi, will now serve 10 years in prison instead of the death penalty.

Other defendants were handed reduced sentences ranging between three years and 10 years in prison. Three others convicted in the case were pardoned in an amnesty granted by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in February.

All of the 16 had denied the charges, saying they were being targeted for their part in the nationwide protests triggered by Amini's death in September 2022 while in police custody for an alleged head scarf violation.

Paknia said those who were still sentenced to prison time would appeal the decision saying they too are covered under the amnesty.



The incident happened on November 3 in Karaj, the capital of Alborz Province, when mourners were paying tribute to slain protester Hadis Najafi at a cemetery to mark 40 days -- the end of the traditional mourning period -- after she was killed during the protests.



Prosecutors say Ajamian, 27, was stripped naked and killed by a group of mourners who had been paying tribute to Najafi.



Human rights organizations had previously condemned the death sentences of protesters in Iran after what they have termed sham trials that were held via three hearings over six days.



Among those sentenced to death in the case was Qarahasanlou, a doctor whose brother has said officers severely tortured his sibling and sister-in-law while in custody.



Two of those sentenced in the case -- Mohammad Mahdi Karmi and Seyed Mohammad Hosseini -- have already been executed.

Since the death of Amini, Iranians have flooded streets across the country to protest against a lack of rights, with women and schoolgirls making unprecedented shows of support in the biggest threat to the Islamic government since the 1979 revolution.



The activist HRANA news agency said at least 516 people had been killed during the unrest, including 71 minors, as security forces try to stifle widespread dissent.



The Oslo-based Iran Human Rights Organization says the number of executions in Iran exceeded 500 last year.



Iran has already admitted to executing four men for crimes allegedly linked to the protests.

Written by Ardeshir Tayebi based on an original story in Persian by RFE/RL's Radio Farda
In an attempt to boost Iran's flagging population growth, the government approved a controversial law in 2021 that further tightened restrictions on medical abortions and banned the free distribution of contraceptives.

Now, officials have expressed alarm about the number of illegal abortions being carried out in the country, suggesting government restrictions have pushed more women to terminate unwanted pregnancies outside the public health-care system.

Women who seek an abortion in Iran often rely on the black market to obtain abortion pills that can be counterfeit or expired and ineffective. They also use underground abortion services by doctors and midwives that sometimes operate in unhygienic conditions.

Government officials have said that each year between 300,000 to 600,000 abortions, most of them illegal, are performed in the country.

A midwife in Tehran, who spoke to RFE/RL's Radio Farda on condition of anonymity for fear of retribution, said illegal abortions appear to have increased "significantly." The midwife says health workers now estimate that there could be as many as 1 million abortions each year.

"We used to provide people with free contraceptives that would help prevent unwanted pregnancies," the midwife said, adding that poorer Iranians were the most affected. "Now, women from poorer [backgrounds] are forced to seek unsafe abortions by using pills they buy on the black market that could lead to health complications and put their lives at risk."

The midwife warns that the authorities appear to be determined to boost the country's birthrate "at any cost," a move that "will only lead to an increase in unsafe abortions."

'Disastrous' Figures

Soleiman Heidari, a Health Ministry official, said on April 18 that up to 80 percent of abortions in Iran were performed illegally. He did not say if the number of illegal abortions was increasing but added that some estimates, if accurate, were "disastrous."

Earlier in the week, Iran's ultraconservative President Ebrahim Raisi said the number of abortions in the country was "worrying," without giving figures. He also called for "violators" to be punished.

Officials have said that medical staff found guilty of carrying out illegal abortions will face a ban on practicing medicine. Tehran Governor Mohsen Mansuri last year called for the authorities to crack down on centers that help women terminate their unwanted pregnancies.

Health Ministry spokesman Pedram Pakayin said on April 19 that the ministry was taking steps to deal with "intentional abortions," including collecting abortion pills from the market.

Dropping Birthrate

Mansoureh Shojaee, a prominent women's rights activist and researcher, told RFE/RL that the law restricting medical abortions was a violation of women's right to maintain autonomy over their bodies.

"The issue of bodily rights and autonomy has been highlighted by the protest movement," she said, referring to the nationwide antiestablishment demonstrations that erupted after the September death of a young woman soon after she was arrested for violating the hijab law. The main slogan of the protesters was "Women, life, and freedom."

"These rights include the hijab but also issues dealing with fertility, including the right to prevent pregnancy," Shojaee said. "Women should be able to decide if they want to become pregnant, if they want children, and the number of children they want."

Shojaee adds that the state's restrictions on medical abortions and contraceptives have put the life of Iranian women at risk.

Previously, abortions could be legally performed during the first four months of pregnancy if three doctors agreed that a pregnancy threatened a woman's life, or the fetus had severe physical or mental disabilities that could produce extreme hardship for the mother.

But under the "rejuvenation of the population and support of the family" law passed in November 2021, abortion cases are now be decided by a panel that includes a judge and two medical professionals.

Rights groups and health experts warn that the law restricts women's access to medical abortions, leads to unwanted pregnancies and the birth of children with congenital defects, and increases the spread of sexually transmitted diseases, including AIDS.

In recent years, a growing number of Iranian women have chosen to have fewer or no children -- mainly due to economic woes, changing gender norms, the growth of girls' education, and family planning programs.

That trend has seen Iran's population growth rate drop from more than 4 percent in the 1980s to 1.29 percent in 2020, according to the World Bank, a development that has alarmed Iran's clerical establishment.
Moscow has been stepping up its offensive actions over the past day on the Bakhmut-Avdiyivka-Maryinka front line in the east, where Ukrainian defenders are facing increasing pressure from Russian shelling, air strikes, and infantry assaults, Kyiv said on April 26.

"Russia is concentrating its main efforts on conducting offensive operations on Bakhmut, Avdiyivka, and Maryinka, where Ukrainian forces repelled 39 Russian attacks over the last 24 hours," the General Staff said in its daily report.



"Fierce battles continue in Bakhmut and Maryinka," the military said.

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.

Russian troops launched three missile strikes, 13 air strikes, and 49 rocket salvoes at Ukrainian positions and civilian infrastructure, it added.



Repeated Russian assaults have also been repelled in the village of Klishchiyivka, some 10 kilometers south of Bakhmut, the Donetsk region city that has been the epicenter of a monthslong, grinding battle.



In the southern Zaporizhzhya region, where Europe's largest nuclear power plant is located, an air-raid alert was declared overnight.



RFE/RL correspondents reported numerous explosions that were likely caused by attacking Iranian-made Shahed drones.



Yuriy Malashko, the head of Zaporizhzhya military administration, urged inhabitants to take cover but did not elaborate on the nature of the blasts. "Stay in safe places until the air alert is over," he said.



Russian forces, who control the local nuclear power plant, regularly shell the parts of Zaporizhzhya region still under Ukrainian control.



On April 25, a Russian missile strike on a museum in the eastern city of Kupyansk killed at least two people and injured 10, an attack that President Volodymyr Zelenskiy described as "barbaric."



Oleh Synyehubov, the head of the Kharkiv region military administration, told RFE/RL that the April 25 strike on the Kupyansk city center involved S-300 type missiles, one of which hit the Museum of Local History.



"The terrorist country is doing everything to destroy us completely. Our history, our culture, our people. Killing Ukrainians with absolutely barbaric methods," Zelenskiy wrote on Telegram, adding, "We must and will respond!"

Separately, Russian state news agency RIA Novosti said Moscow began using its new T-14 Armata battle tanks in the war, firing on Ukrainian positions but not yet participating "in direct assault."



The tank has an unmanned turret that a crew controls remotely from "an isolated armored capsule located in the front of the hull," the report said.



But, according to British military intelligence, Russian forces have complained about the poor condition of the first of the tanks to arrive.



"Eleven years in development, the program has been dogged with delays, reduction in planned fleet size, and reports of manufacturing problems," the British intelligence report said.

With reporting by AP and Reuters
Retired four-star General David Petraeus is a veteran of nearly four decades in the U.S. Army, commanding U.S. forces in Iraq and Afghanistan before serving as director of the CIA in 2011-12.

In an interview with RFE/RL's Georgian Service, Petraeus argues that Russia's invasion of Ukraine is "about as clear a right-versus-wrong as we've seen in our lifetime." He also talks about the "staggering failure" of Russia's military leadership and its refusal to learn from its mistakes, the aims and strengths of Kyiv's impending "combined arms" offensive, and why the West can't seek "an early exit."

RFE/RL: Where do we stand now in the Ukraine war?



David Petraeus: I think we stand near the end of the Russian winter offensive, which has not achieved its objectives so far, and which probably will culminate short of achieving those objectives. And even if [Russian forces] ultimately take Bakhmut, it will have come at such a cost that it will have been an unwise offensive.

And then we are awaiting the expected Ukrainian late spring-early summer offensive, which will feature Western tanks, Western infantry fighting vehicles, artillery, and a variety of other systems, and the kind of training and unit development that will allow Ukraine for the first time to achieve combined arms operations in this particular war -- something that Russia has not done in the past and something that the Ukrainians did, to a modest degree, in the Kharkiv offensive last fall.

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.

By combined arms operations, I'm referring to the use of tanks together with infantry to keep the enemy infantry and their anti-tank guided missiles off the tanks, with artillery and mortars suppressing the enemy, and with engineers and explosive ordnance disposal to reduce obstacles and defuse mines, with air defense right up with the tanks to keep the enemy's air off of them. [With] their close air support, supported now by the MiG [fighter jets] provided by Poland and other NATO nations, logistics right up behind them with additional ammunition, food, fuel, water, medical support, and supplies, [and] good command-and-control on the Ukrainian side, electronic warfare to degrade the communications of the Russians.

And then, most importantly of all perhaps, right behind the lead elements, additional units that can exploit the gains of the lead forces -- something that didn't really exist sufficiently in Kharkiv last fall, so that when the physical capacity of the forces was reached, after a week or so, there was nothing to push through and to exploit in the way that I think we will see this summer.

So that's where we are. We completed a year in which Russia lost the battle of Kyiv, lost the battle of Kharkiv, lost the battles of Sumy, Chernihiv, and Kherson, and they have not achieved their winter objectives. And now, [they] will be faced with a spring and summer offensive by new Ukrainian forces that are being trained and equipped in Germany, Poland, the U.K., and Ukraine that, I think, again, will achieve what Ukraine sets out to do.

RFE/RL: What do you think would be the aim of such a Ukrainian counteroffensive?

Petraeus: I think it will be twofold. One will be to ensure that the Russians are not able to reinforce or to resupply Crimea through the southeastern part of Ukraine -- so to sever that ground line of communications that they achieved by their offensive last spring and summer. And then, second, to bring about the crumbling, perhaps even collapse, of Russian forces in a fairly broad area of southern Ukraine as they liberate more of the Ukrainian territory that the Russians captured last year.

RFE/RL: Up to Crimea? Including Crimea? Where do we draw the line?

Petraeus: Well, this will take time. You'll do it a piece at a time. And, of course, I think it's very important to reach a point where, with the additional longer-range precision munitions that the U.S. is providing for the multiple-launch rocket system that we have provided -- so now we're providing the small-diameter bomb for that system, which is about 150 kilometers [in range] and precise -- that they can holdand target many more of the sites in Crimea that have been important to supporting Russians in southern and southeastern Ukraine. So, the air bases, headquarters, logistical locations, reserve-force locations, and so forth.

RFE/RL: Let me ask you specifically about Bakhmut. Chairman of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of General Staff General Mark Milley said recently that Ukrainians have turned it into a slaughterhouse of Russians, that they are getting hammered there. Could this have been the Ukrainian plan all along, to use so-called bottleneck tactics and waste Russian manpower?



Petraeus: I don't know whether it was all along, but it clearly has become that over time. Early on, I believe even Ukrainians would have observed that Bakhmut has no real, true geographic significance; it's not a great rail or road hub the way some other locations are. But I think they came to see the value of defending an urban area against a force that was very unprofessionally just throwing soldiers into this particular cauldron and allowing those soldiers -- as General Milley said -- to be hammered. The losses have been staggering, while the gains have been incremental and incredibly costly. And I think over time, as well, [Ukrainian] President [Volodymyr] Zelenskiy clearly came to recognize the need to not give Russia anything that it could portray as a victory or as Russian forces achieving the objectives they set out for themselves.

RFE/RL: Was that also the reason Russians persisted with it? We can talk about leadership deficiencies in the Russian military, but surely they could have seen that this is being used as a kind of trap for them.

Petraeus: Well, after you throw wave after wave of soldiers [at them], the problem is that they don't have any alternatives. They don't have well-trained forces, they no longer have well-equipped forces, [and] they don't have collective training of these units.

I think it's very important for observers to recognize that the Ukrainian forces that will lead the offensive this spring and summer are not engaged in Ukraine on the front lines right now. They are in training -- in Germany, Poland, U.K., Ukraine, and elsewhere. And they will be committed over timewith the presence of all these different elements and capabilities, and combat and combat-support forces that I've described before they launch that offensive.

The Russians haven't done that. They've basically just thrown soldiers into units. There's no coherencethere's no real organization to it. Of course, some of them are actual former convicts -- prisoners who were given a chance to get out of jail free, if you will, if they could survive for six months, I guess it was, then they could go free. But, of course, the odds of surviving the way the Russians have employed themit's World War I-ish, in a lot of ways, but up against capabilities, on the defensive side from the Ukrainians, that are vastly more capable than the formidable opposition that individuals encountered even in the trench warfare of World War I.

But what the Ukrainians will do in the upcoming offensive, this is going to be vastly different. This is going to be combined arms operations, which the Russians have never achieved even at the outset, despite having had months deployed in Belarus and in Russia on Ukraine's borders, when they could have been training on these kinds of tasks. That's a staggering failure, in my view. If you'd given me, as a commander, months to train for an invasion, I think I could have done a good bit better job.

RFE/RL: You know more than most about [commanding] an invasion. From that perspective, what are the major mistakes Russia made in this war?

Petraeus: Well, at the very highest level, they completely underestimated Ukrainian capabilities, they completely overestimated Russian capabilities, and they failed to design a campaign properly and to prepare the force to carry out that campaign. Beyond that, they didn't have modern communication systems -- that's why [their] generals kept getting killed. And again, they didn't train their forces. We've always known that they lack a professional noncommissioned officers corps such as that which we have which are the backbone of our forces. But [there were] many, many, many deficiencies that they demonstrated, some of which were anticipated, others of which were somewhat surprising.

[There was, for instance,] the fact that their communication system is single-channel so you can easily find it in the clear -- it's not encrypted. It's also HF [high-frequency], which means it's broadcast very widely, anyone can pick it up with a police scanner; as opposed to ours, which is FM, frequency-hopping, and encrypted. That they don't have that kind of system at least encrypted is really quite staggering, given how much they supposedly invested in the modernization of their military.

RFE/RL: There is an enduring belief that Russians always start badly and then they get better. Back in October 2022, you said the battlefield reality that [Russian President Vladimir] Putin faced was irreversible. Six months on, is there still a chance for Russia to turn it all around, learn, and adapt?

Petraeus: [The Russian] military is not a learning organization, [like] we sought to make our forces. When I was privileged to command our forces in Iraq and Afghanistan and the greater Middle East, we explicitly set out to be learning organizations. We built into what we did lessons-learned sessions [and] planning sessions that required me to make decisions -- refine the big ideas, the strategy, the tactics, and so forth. All of our commanders' conferences featured a requirement that each commander share one or two lessons learned that would be applicable to all the others. So, you have to build a culture of learning. We, in most of the NATO countries, all do that.

We should not care what the Kremlin thinks anymore about this. We deferred to them in the past, and that set the conditions that enabled Putin and led him to invade Ukraine.

Russia clearly has not done that -- they're not a learning organization -- and they didn't recognize the deficiencies in advance. And actually, some of these are not the kind of deficiencies that you can remedy just by sitting down and trying to learn lessons, because to develop a professional noncommissioned officer corps, that's a huge decision that involves years of training and education and development and experience. So again, I just don't see them learning.

I do see the Ukrainians learning and developing and getting better and better. And that's why I say they will do what the Russians have failed to do, which is to achieve combined-arms effects and operations. Now, what I should point out, though, is that [Russian President] Vladimir Putin is still not convinced that the Russians will not be able to out-suffer [the enemy]. He still thinks that, just as you said, in history, the Russians had a terrible start, the Nazis pushed them back, Napoleon's army pushed them out, but in the end they prevailed. And he still thinks he can out-suffer the Ukrainians, the Europeans, and the Americans in the way that Russians out-suffered Napoleon's army and the Nazis. And we have to ensure that we enable the Ukrainians to prove him wrong.

RFE/RL: In realpolitik terms, can one truly argue that Russia is losing this war, considering it holds twice the size of Ukrainian territory than it had before the February 24, 2022, full-fledged invasion? And let's not forget that is some of the richest land, natural resource-wise, in Europe.

Petraeus: Well, the war is still not over; this is still very much a work in progress. Ukraine has achieved some extraordinary victories -- the battles of Kyiv, Sumy, Chernihiv, Kharkiv, Kherson, and so forth -- but the Russians, as you note, still control almost 20 percent of their [Ukrainians'] territory -- some of which is particularly important in a variety of different respects, geographically or [in terms of] raw materials, minerals, and so forth. So, this is still ongoing. [The Ukrainians] should certainly be proud of what they have achieved. We should be proud of what they have achieved and what we've enabled them to achieve.

But this is very much an ongoing war, and it requires continued support, continued determination not just on the part of the Ukrainians but on the part of those who are helping them in what I think is about as clear a right-versus-wrong as we've seen in our lifetime: a dictatorial, kleptocratic regime denying the right of its neighbor to even exist, invading and doing so without provocation and in a particularly brutal manner, with aculture of committing war crimes rather than preventing them and dealing with them when inevitably they might take place; against a country that is a democratically elected government [and] free-market economy, however imperfect that may be.

RFE/RL: At the Munich Security Conference in February, I remember you saying that you hoped the war would end by the time of the release of your forthcoming book on Ukraine, which comes out in the autumn. Is it realistic to expect Ukraine to win by that time?

Petraeus: Well, I think we should hope, [but] that is not necessarily the likely outcome. A lot depends on what gets achieved by this Ukrainian offensive in the late spring and early summer. And if Russian forces can crumble and collapse, and then that can spread [further], then perhaps you might reach a point at which a negotiated resolution might actually be attainable. But without that, this is going to go on for another year or years, and we need to be prepared for that. We should not be seeking an early exit or anything like this. The Ukrainians are in this for their survival, their independence; they're determined to do what's necessary, and we need to be determined to do the same.



RFE/RL: In your view, what is the most realistic endgame scenario?

Petraeus: I think it will either be a negotiated resolution which includes a Western provision of a Marshall-like reconstruction plan of enormous substance and a NATO- or U.S.-led security guarantee when Russia realizes that this war is not sustainable on the battlefield or on the home front. Or there could be, at some point, a new frozen conflict, ideally with Ukraine having liberated all of its territory, including Crimea, but without a formal resolution [or] a formal negotiation.

And here we should acknowledge that we failed to give Ukraine the kind of [security] guarantee that we should have provided. We were sensitive to Moscow's concerns about Ukraine joining NATO or having some kind of security relationship that was particularly meaningful -- such as we provided for the Baltic states, and they've turned out pretty well -- and it hasn't, obviously, turned out well for Ukraine. So, any concerns about Kremlin considerations in the future should be completely disregarded.

RFE/RL: Let me ask about the neighborhood. What's at stake here, do you think, for countries like Moldova and Georgia?



Petraeus: I think Moldova has significant vulnerability. I believe that the U.S. and NATO countries have recognized this and are seeking to provide various forms of support to withstand various Russian efforts to undermine the government, to topple it, [or] to not just hang onto [the breakaway region of] Transdniester but to expand that and to make Moldova a kind of Belarus for Russia if they can. But I don't think the Moldovans want that; a majority of them do not want that. And what we need to do, in addition to enabling the Ukrainians, is also to enable [the Moldovans].

Georgia is a bit of a different situation, given that Russia is so intently focused with just about everything they have on Ukraine and on Eastern Europe, again including Moldova, that I don't think there's much left for anything outside of that focus. You've seen this elsewhere: You've seen it in the Caucasus, you've seen it in the eastern part of Russia, you've seen it in areas where Russia has a boundary with NATO countries. It's all about Ukraine and, to a slightly different degree, Moldova.

I think Georgia has some breathing space, but they need to make the most of it. And I thought it was very interesting to see in their domestic political dynamics, of course, a very considerable rejection of Russia in recent months. (Protests erupted in Tbilisi in March until the ruling Georgian Dream party announced the withdrawal of a draft bill on "foreign influence" that critics likened to Russia's harsh "foreign agent" legislation.)

RFE/RL: Unlike Moldova, Georgia harbors NATO membership hopes. What impact is this war going to have on those hopes? Was eventual NATO membership more realistic for Georgia before this war or now that it has happened?

Petraeus: I suspect it's just a tiny bit more realistic now. I think, at some point, you will see not just Finland, which now is approved to come into NATO, but also Sweden [in NATO]. And Ukraine over time, I think, will ultimately be a NATO member; if there is some kind of requirement in the interim, there will be a security guarantee provided for it.

We should not care what the Kremlin thinks anymore about this. We deferred to them in the past, and that set the conditions that enabled Putin and led him to invade Ukraine. Those concerns should be finished; they should be dismissed. And we now need to ensure that Ukraine can be part of what is a defensive alliance, at the end of the day; this is not an offensive alliance, there's no history for that whatsoever. And once that's done, I think that the aspirations of a country like Georgia may be more realistic than they were in the past.

This interview has been edited for clarity and length.
Tajik migrant Foziljon Umarov recently applied to renew his expiring Russian residency permit in Nizhny Novgorod Province, where he works as a bricklayer.

As Umarov handed in his documents at the migration department, a clerk asked him if he would consider joining the Russian military.



"She said if I became a contract soldier I'd no longer need a residency permit or a work permit and could get a Russian passport after six months of military service. I would also earn about $3,000 a month," Umarov claimed.



He said the employee who spoke to him at the migration center was an ethnic Tajik.



"She spoke Tajik with me. I don't know if they hired a Tajik employee specifically to speak to Tajik migrants, and Uzbek clerks for Uzbeks, etc.," Umarov said.



Many migrant workers from Central Asia say Russian recruiters have increasingly approached them at mosques, in dormitories, and at migration offices to try to lure them into joining the military as Moscow struggles to replace its depleted forces in Ukraine.

Moscow has not officially announced a new military mobilization after its "partial" call-up of some 300,000 reservists in September caused tens of thousands of Russian men to abruptly flee the country.



The government plans to recruit 400,000 new soldiers to fight in Ukraine, according to Russian regional government sources.

Russian officials have expanded their campaign to attract potential contractors -- both Russian citizens and foreign workers -- with a promise of money and other benefits.



Recruiters on Russian city streets are handing out brochures to men claiming those who sign up for the military contract service will receive an initial one-time payment of $2,390, followed by salaries of up to $4,160 a month.



Photos and videos sent to RFE/RL show similar leaflets hanging on the walls, doors, and staircases in migrant workers' dormitories.



One video obtained by RFE/RL's Tajik Service purports to show a representative of a Russian military recruiting office giving a speech at a popular mosque in the city of Chelyabinsk.

"You don't have to wait five years to become Russian citizens -- instead you can sign a contract for military service for six months or up to one year in exchange for fast-track citizenship for yourself and your families," the uniformed man tells the congregation in the mosque.



Another video depicts a man in the Russian military outfit promoting contract military service to a group of men, some of whom can be heard speaking Uzbek. The video purportedly shows Central Asian migrants lining up for work permit in the western city of Penza.



Recruiters say those willing to become military contractors don't even have to take the mandatory medical checkup, says Jurabek Amonov, a migrant rights advocate in Russia.



"They only need to sign a paper saying 'I am healthy,'" Amonov told RFE/RL on April 10.



"I always tell the migrants that 99 percent of those who went to war in the hope of getting Russian passports were killed in Ukraine. It's also illegal for them to go to Ukraine," he said.



Not My War



Russia hosts millions of migrants from Central Asia and other former Soviet countries where unemployment has been a major problem the past three decades.



Most migrants have stayed away from the widely condemned war their host country has waged against Ukraine. But it is believed that many hundreds or thousands have accepted jobs in Ukraine's Russian-occupied territories -- mostly working for Russian construction companies.

Since the war began in February 2022, dozens of families in Central Asia have received the bodies of relatives killed in Ukraine. Some of them were naturalized Russian citizens, some were foreign contractors, and there were also convicts recruited from Russian prisons often under pressure.



Despite the falling value of the Russian ruble, a shrinking job market, and other consequences of the war, Russia remains a key destination for Central Asian workers.



One Tajik migrant contacted RFE/RL from a deportation detention center in the Far Eastern Russian city of Vladivostok earlier this month, saying a military recruitment officer had come to the facility to meet with the detainees.



"The officer told us, 'You are being deported and can't return to Russia for at least five years, but if you agree to join the Russian military your records will be wiped clean, you'll get a good wage, and become Russian citizens after just six months,'" said the Tajik man on condition of anonymity.



Though he said he wasn't convinced, some others "seriously considered accepting the offer, because going back to Tajikistan with no money, no jobs, and no future is almost as bad."



In Nizhny Novgorod, migrant worker Umarov decided to reject the offer of a Russian passport and $3,000 a month to fight in Ukraine, although he makes only half of that amount during the height of the summer work season.



"I am not going to Ukraine at any cost," Umarov said. "It is not my war."

Written and reported by Farangis Najibullah with additional reporting by Zarangez Navruzshoh
A federal grand jury in the U.S. state of Florida has indicted four U.S. citizens and three Russian nationals over allegations that they took part in a malign campaign to influence U.S. voters.

The U.S. Justice Department announced the indictment on April 18, saying the seven individuals had worked in conjunction with the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) to conduct the campaign, which among other things attempted to create the appearance of American popular support for Russia's annexation of territories in Ukraine and other Russian propaganda.

The indictment alleges that the Russian defendants recruited, funded, and directed U.S. political groups to act as agents of the Russian government and "sow discord and spread pro-Russian propaganda."

The indictment adds charges to Moscow resident Aleksandr Ionov, who was charged in July with orchestrating an election interference campaign using political groups in Florida, Georgia, and California. He has called the charge "nonsense." The indictment released on April 18 also names FSB officers Aleksei Sukhodolov and Yegor Popov.

Ionov founded and served as president of the Anti-Globalization Movement of Russia (AGMR), an organization headquartered in Moscow and funded by the Russian government. He allegedly used AGMR to carry out Russia's malign influence campaign under the direction and supervision of Moscow-based FSB officers Sukhodolov and Popov.

Ionov allegedly recruited members of political groups within the United States to participate in the influence campaign and "act as agents of Russia in the United States."

The groups included the African People's Socialist Party and the Uhuru Movement (collectively known as the APSP) in Florida, Black Hammer in the U.S. state of Georgia, and a political group in California identified only as U.S. Political Group 3.

The U.S. residents indicted along with the Russians are Omali Yeshitela, Penny Joanne Hess, and Jesse Nevel. All three live in St. Petersburg and in St. Louis, Missouri, and serve as officers in APSP.

The fourth American, Augustus C. Romain Jr., also known as Gazi Kodzo Romain, resides in St. Petersburg and Atlanta and is the founder of Black Hammer.

Additionally, a separate case in Washington charged Russian national Natalia Burlinova "with conspiring with an FSB officer to act as an illegal agent of Russia in the United States." Burlinova, a resident of Moscow, conspired with an FSB officer to recruit U.S. citizens from academic and research institutions to travel to Russia to participate in a public diplomacy program called Meeting Russia.

The Justice Department said Ionov on February 24, 2022 -- the day Russia invaded Ukraine -- allegedly emailed Nevel an urgent message containing pro-Russian talking points in support of the invasion.

Ionov in May 2020 allegedly sent a request to Yeshitela and members of other U.S. political groups urging them to make statements in support of the independence of the self-declared Donetsk People's Republic, an area in eastern Ukraine held by Russia-backed separatists.

"Thereafter, throughout March 2022, the APSP repeatedly hosted Ionov via video conference to discuss the war, during which Ionov falsely stated that anyone who supported Ukraine also supported Naziism and white supremacy, and Yeshitela and another APSP member allegedly made statements of solidarity with the Russian government, the department said.

With reporting by Reuters
In the Sudanese capital, civilians cower behind interior walls, fearing flying window glass and stray bullets. Commerce in Khartoum has ground to a halt. Water and electricity outages are widespread. Pitched battles have broken out near the airport and other parts of the city of 5 million, with fighter jets roaring overhead.

Two military factions -- once political allies, now battlefield adversaries -- are wrestling for control over the city and over the country's lucrative mineral resource exports, especially gold. Violence is erupting in other parts of the northeast African nation.

Four days after an initial spasm of violence, the Sudanese capital of Khartoum is slipping further toward outright civil war.

While the two battling factions are headed by rival Sudanese generals, there's another player that's been lurking around the shadows of Sudanese politics and commerce for years now, a foreign country that has long had its eye on securing a port on Sudan's Red Sea coast: Russia.

For the moment, there is no public evidence that Moscow is playing a role in the violence in Khartoum or elsewhere. That also goes for Wagner, the notorious Russian mercenary company whose owner has close ties to the Kremlin and the Russian Defense Ministry, and whose employees have been reportedly working at Sudanese gold mines.

But experts are closely watching for hints that Russia may have a hidden hand in the turmoil -- or what it might do as the country sinks deeper into chaos.

Here's what you need to know about the roots of the violence and Russia's presence in the country.

Chaotic Backstory

Sudan was ruled for nearly three decades by the dictator Omar al-Bashir, who gained infamy for, among other things, orchestrating a campaign of rape, pillage, and mass killings in the western Darfur region. In 2009, he became the first sitting head of state to be indicted by the International Criminal Court in The Hague.

In 2019, mass protests seeking his ouster led to a military coup whose plotters kicked out Bashir that April and took control of the country before later giving way to a civilian-military transition council. Two years later, however, in October 2021, the military wrested control of the government in its entirety.

The two officers behind that seizure were General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, chief of the Sudanese Army, and his deputy, General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, who heads a powerful paramilitary group known as the Rapid Support Forces, or RSF. Dagalo is commonly known by a nickname: Hemedti.

Hemedti's forces were instrumental in the Darfur atrocities that resulted in Bashir's indictment, according to Alex de Waal, a longtime scholar of Sudan who is now executive director of the World Peace Foundation at The Fletcher School at Tufts University in the United States.

"They have  in a mere decade  become the dominant power in Khartoum," de Waal wrote in an analysis. "And Hemedti has become the face of Sudan's violent, political marketplace."

Last December, under pressure from Western nations and other African countries, the two agreed to a framework deal that would eventually transition the government back to civilian control.

That led to uncertainty among Sudan's powerbrokers and civilian leaders, and rising tensions between military factions until on the morning of April 15, fighting broke out between units loyal to Burhan and Hemedti's RSF.

So, What About Wagner?

In November 2017, Hemedti's forces took control of gold mines located in the Jebel Amer district in Darfur. The mines are Sudan's single largest source of export revenues, according to the World Peace Foundation.

About five months later, on April 24, 2018, the founder and owner of Wagner, Yevgeny Prigozhin, flew from Moscow to Khartoum, accompanied by two Wagner security guards.

The flight, first documented by Novaya Gazeta, was one of many that Prigozhin took over the years to a range of African countries where Wagner soldiers, and other Prigozhin-linked companies, have appeared: the Central African Republic, Mozambique, Libya, and others.

In August 2018, according to the French newspaper Le Monde, Prigozhin again flew to Khartoum, this time to meet with the leaders of several Central African Republic armed groups. On August 31, the Russian Foreign Ministry announced the "Khartoum Declaration" and "the creation of a Central African opposition association in order to achieve long-term and sustainable peace in the Central African Republic."

Since then, Prigozhin's Wagner soldiers have steadily increased their visibility, and impunity, according to the United Nations, in the Central African Republic, offering security to the impoverished country's leadership in exchange for access to its vast mineral resources.

In Sudan, Wagner's presence has been less visible, but of growing concern to Western countries.

Prigozhin's companies likely won access to Sudan's most lucrative gold mines around the time Bashir met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in late 2017, according to C4ADS, a Washington-based research organization. Mikhail Potepkin, a man who was employed by Prigozhin's Internet Research Agency -- the organization commonly known as Russia's troll factory -- was named head of Prigozhin's operations in Sudan.



The Russian open-source research group CIT, meanwhile, documented evidence of Wagner security guards helping to suppress public protests in Khartoum in late 2018 -- protests that eventually led to Bashir's ouster a few months later.

According to documents obtained by The New York Times from the Dossier Center, a London-based opposition research organization funded by exiled Russian oil tycoon Mikhail Khodorkovsky, Wagner advisers advised Bashir to launch a social media campaign to undermine the anti-government protesters.

A former top-ranking Wagner commander named Aleksandr Kuznetsov, meanwhile, has been identified by CNN as being a key leader of Prigozhin's gold-mining operations in Sudan. Kuznetsov has been sanctioned by the European Union and Britain for his alleged ties to Prigozhin.

About a week after Bashir was ousted, a group of high-ranking Russian military officials flew to Khartoum on a corporate jet registered to a Prigozhin-affiliated company, according to Novaya Gazeta. It wasn't clear if Prigozhin was on that flight. The same jet was used to fly several top Sudanese officials to Moscow not long after that, including a brother of Hemedti.

In June 2019, Sudanese security forces, including members of Hemedti's RSF, used heavy gunfire and tear gas to disperse a demonstration in Khartoum. More than 100 people were believed to have been killed.

Prigozhin's Sudan company, Meroe Gold, also imported 13 tons of riot shields, as well as riot police helmets and batons for a company controlled by Hemedti's family, the Times reported.

In 2020, the U.S. Treasury Department sanctioned several Prigozhin companies and employees for their work in Sudan, and other countries, including Meroe Gold and Mikhail Potepkin.

"Prigozhin's role in Sudan highlights the interplay between Russia's paramilitary operations, support for preserving authoritarian regimes, and exploitation of natural resources," the department said in a statement. The companies targeted "have directly facilitated Prigozhin's global operations and attempted to suppress and discredit protestors seeking democratic reforms in Sudan."

Responding to a reporter's query about Wagner's presence in Sudan, Prigozhin said in a statement published on his Telegram channel on April 18: "I can tell you with absolute certainty, absolutely exactly, and you can enter my words into any record.... Today not a single Wagner fighter, I emphasize not a single one, is in Sudan. And it's been that way for over two years," he said.

What About That Naval Port?

Sudan's 850-kilometer Red Sea coastline is largely undeveloped, except for Port Sudan, which is the country's most important gateway for international trade. Around 90 percent of the country's exports and imports go through the port.

In November 2020, Putin announced that Russia would build a facility for naval ships at Port Sudan, under a 25-year lease deal. The agreement, which would give Moscow a second port outside Russia, irked the United States and other Western nations. Russia's other foreign port is located in Tartus, Syria.

A separate announcement stipulated that the facility would have workspace for up to 300 personnel and docks for as many four warships, including nuclear-powered vessels. The deal also stipulated that Russia would supply weapons to Sudan to help defend the facility.

Sudan's political turmoil put the deal on hold until 2022. One day before Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, Hemedti traveled to Moscow for undisclosed talks, accompanied by a group of Sudanese government ministers. Returning to Khartoum about a week later, he told reporters that he supported moving forward with the deal.

"If any country wants to open a base and it is in our interests and doesn't threaten our national security we have no problem in dealing with anyone, Russian or otherwise," he was quoted as saying.

This past February, meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov traveled to Khartoum, as part of a multileg journey to several African nations. Shortly afterward, two Sudanese ministers signaled the naval base deal was nearing completion.

The impact of a Russian naval presence at Port Sudan would be substantial, said Joseph Siegle, the director of research at the Africa Center for Strategic Studies, a Washington-based research organization.

It "would be a significant step up for Russian influence," he told RFE/RL, potentially giving Moscow the ability to hinder maritime trade coming from or going to the Suez Canal, where as much as 10 percent of the world's oil and 8 percent of its liquefied natural gas passes through.

So Is Russia Behind The Current Chaos?

Unlikely, Siegle said.

"I don't think Russia triggered this and I don't think Russia sees an advantage [in the eruption of hostilities]," he said. "Russia could work with either side. They don't want to see the democratic transition take place.

"Russia is trying to ride it out. They were happy with the way things were [under the military government]," Siegle said. "They don't want to upset the applecart, but now that that is happening, they want one side to come out on top and then to maintain power. There are real fears that if a democratic, civilian government takes hold, then Russia's influence will dissipate quickly.

"Russia does less well when there are transparent, rules-based governments," he said. "That is why Russia doesn't want things to change. That may be destabilizing for Sudan and the region, but that is a secondary thing for Russia."

With reporting by RFE/RL Russian Service correspondent Aleksandr Gostev and RFE/RL correspondent Todd Prince
Tajik authorities have detained another brother of Tolib Ayombekov, the jailed informal leader of Tajikistan's volatile Gorno-Badakhshan region (GBAO).

Law enforcement sources in the Central Asian nation told RFE/RL on April 18 that Rashid Ayombekov was detained in the GBAO four days earlier.

A relative confirmed to RFE/RL's Tajik Service that Rashid Ayombekov is currently in custody.

"Of the three brothers, Rashid Ayombekov was the only one out of prison. In general, nine members of Ayombekov's family are currently behind bars," the relative said, adding that Rashid Ayombekov had not committed any crimes.

Tolib Ayombekov, a longtime opponent of the authoritarian regime in Tajikistan, fought against Tajik forces in a bloody civil war during the 1990s but was integrated into the government along with other so-called warlords as part of a Moscow-brokered peace deal in 1997.

Tolib Ayombekov was handed a life sentence in November along with several other noted figures of GBAO on charges of murder, hooliganism, robbery, drugs, and illegal weapons smuggling, inciting hatred, organizing mass disorder, and creation of a criminal group.

His three sons and two of his brothers were later also convicted on similar charges and sentenced to prison terms between 12 years to life.

Exact details of the charges and sentences are not clear as all the trials were held behind closed doors.

The crackdown on informal leaders and activists in GBAO has been under way since May last year after police violently dispersed protesters in the restive region.

Demonstrators had demanded a thorough investigation into the 2021 death of an activist while in police custody and into the refusal by regional authorities to consider the resignation of regional governor and mayor of GBAO's capital, Khorugh.

The rallies intensified after one of the protesters was killed by police, prompting the authorities to launch a "counterterrorist operation."

Authorities violently dispersed the protesters, arresting dozens during and after the rallies.

Protests are rare in the tightly controlled nation of 9.5 million where President Emomali Rahmon has ruled with an iron fist for nearly three decades.
President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday said Russia was trying to erase Ukraine's history and culture after a strike on a museum killed one employee and wounded 10.
During the Soviet Union's war in Afghanistan in 1979-1989, Serhiy Titunov's job as a soldier was finding and seizing U.S.-made Stinger missiles that were being used by Afghan mujahedin resistance. The then-new technology was wreaking havoc against Soviet aircraft. Now Titunov is fighting on the side of Ukraine, using his experience with shoulder-fired rockets to target Russian aircraft himself. A volunteer for Ukraine's Territorial Defense Forces, he is training a new generation in using the Stingers effectively.
In an interview with Ahram Online on Tuesday, the spokesman for the Sudanese Armed Forces, Brigadier General Nabil Abdullah, accused the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) of violating a new three-day ceasefire brokered by the United States and Saudi Arabia less than half an hour after it came into effect on Monday.
He said 17 of the dead were pro-regime fighters.

The official Syrian news agency SANA reported the deaths of at least 26 people.

The Observatory, which has a wide network of sources on the ground in Syria, said jihadists riding motorbikes also attacked a group of shepherds in the eastern province of Deir Ezzor, killing five and seizing their livestock.

Two other shepherds were kidnapped, the war monitor said.

SANA also reported five dead in the attack, and said the jihadists opened fire on the animals, killing 250 sheep.

Also in Deir Ezzor, the decomposed bodies of two civilians thought to have been truffle hunters killed days earlier by jihadists were recovered, the Observatory said.

Since February, more than 240 people have been killed in IS attacks targeting truffle hunters or by landmines left by the extremists, according to the Observatory.

The victims included 15 people foraging for truffles who had their throats slit by IS last month.

In February, IS fighters on motorcycles opened fire on truffle hunters and killed at least 68 people, the Observatory said at the time.

Syria's desert truffles fetch high prices in a state battered by 12 years of war and a crushing economic crisis.

However, the authorities frequently warn against the high-risk practice of gathering them.

Between February and April each year, hundreds of impoverished Syrians still search for truffles in the vast Syrian desert, or Badia -- a known hideout for jihadists that is also littered with landmines.

Jihadist remnants

Syrian truffles are less fragrant than truffles found in France and Italy, and can only be found during the rainy season.

The prized fungus can sell for up to $25 per kilo (2.2 pounds) depending on size and grade -- in a country where the average monthly wage is around $18.

In March 2019, IS lost its last scraps of territory in Syria following a military campaign backed by a US-led coalition, but jihadist remnants continue to hide in the desert and launch deadly attacks.

They have used such hideouts to ambush civilians, Kurdish-led forces, Syrian government troops and pro-Iranian fighters, while also mounting attacks in neighbouring Iraq.

Syria's war has claimed the lives of around half a million people and displaced millions since it erupted in March 2011 with the brutal repression of anti-government protests.

Remnants of explosives laid by all sides in the conflict are now claiming more lives in Syria than anywhere else in the world, says the United Nations.

Since 2015, landmines and other explosive remnants have on average killed or injured five people every day, according to UN data.
Hindu Saint Killed in a Road Accident

Two were seriously injured in the accident

NARSINGHPUR: A Hindu spiritual leader and his disciple were killed and two others injured as their SUV overturned after hitting a divider in Madhya Pradesh's Narsinghpur district on Monday. A police officer shared this information.

Suatala police station in-charge Jyoti Dixit told PTI that Mahant Kanak Bihari Maharaj (85), who rose to fame after donating Rs 1 crore for the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya, and his disciple Vimal Babu Verma were killed in a road accident. He said that the accident took place about 50 km away from the district headquarters.

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Mahant's disciple Deena Bandhu Das (60) and driver Rooplal Raghuvanshi (35) were seriously injured, the official said. The injured have been taken to Jabalpur for treatment. All of them were returning to Chhindwara from Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh.




Oil futures settled slightly up on Tuesday as traders assessed Chinese industrial production and GDP data, and also weighed the data showing a drop in eurozone and German investor sentiment.

West Texas Intermediate Crude oil futures for May ended higher by $0.03 at $80.86 a barrel.

Brent crude futures were down marginally at $84.74 a little while ago.

Data released by China's National Bureau of Statistics showed the nation's gross domestic product was up 4.5% on year in the first quarter of 2023. GDP was up 2.2% on a seasonally adjusted basis, matching forecasts following the flat reading in the previous quarter.

However, Chinese industrial production grew by 3.9%, missing expectations for a 4% increase. But it was still up from 2.4% in February.

Traders now await weekly crude inventory data from the American Petroleum Institute (API) and U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). The API's report is due later today, while the EIA is scheduled to release its inventory data Wednesday morning.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Market Analysis
Rhodes University Chemistry PhD candidate, Kristen Burgess.

Rhodes University Chemistry PhD candidate, Kristen Burgess, has been selected for the illustrious Gates Cambridge scholarship. Burgess is part of the Gates Cambridge Class of 2023, comprised of 77 outstanding new scholars from around the world.

The Gates Cambridge scholarship programme is the University of Cambridges flagship international postgraduate scholarship programme. It was established through a US$210 million donation to the University of Cambridge from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation in 2000. This remains the largest single donation to a UK university. Since the first class in 2001, Gates Cambridge has awarded 2,100 scholarships to scholars from 112 countries who represent more than 700 universities globally, and more than 80 academic departments, and all 31 Colleges at Cambridge.

The 23-year-old Johannesburg-born Burgess will be part of 77 Gates Cambridge Scholars worldwide who will join the Cambridge community when they start their studies in the autumn. In addition to generous funding to do their research, with no age limit on candidates, they will benefit from the strong sense of community and identity forged by their predecessors and their commitment to improving the lives of others.

I am just delighted about what this opportunity has to offer me in my quest for knowledge, filling the research gap, sharing my love for science, and combatting cancer, said Burgess.

Burgess said she has always been interested in the underlying mechanisms of disease, particularly cancer. After my undergraduate degree at Rhodes University, I needed to decide between chemistry and biochemistry for my postgraduate endeavours; even though I love biochemistry, I opted for chemistry, as it allowed me to explore diseases (and other topics) with a molecular approach and left a few more doors open, she said.

She said that over the course of her undergraduate degree and postgraduate research, this interest had been ignited and has ultimately developed into an insatiable hunger to understand more. I will now be doing my PhD with a broader focus encompassing both chemistry and biochemistry. This project will investigate the effect that Glioblastoma Multiforme (malignant brain tumours) has on the surrounding extracellular matrix within brain tissue, in order to enhance its progression and invasion. Once the mechanism of the disease has been mapped out, an intelligent molecular intervention can be designed, she added.

Commenting about the class of 2023, Professor Eilis Ferran of the Gates Cambridge Trust, said: These scholars, who have been selected by our expert Selection Panels, reflect the mission of the Gates Cambridge Trust established through the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundations generous and historic gift to the University of Cambridge. Like their predecessors, they are both intellectually outstanding and demonstrate the kind of leadership qualities needed to tackle the complex global challenges we face today. We know that these scholars will flourish in the rich, international community at Cambridge and will go on to make a significant impact in their fields and to the wider global community.

Burgess co-supervisor, Associate Professor of Rhodes University, John Mack, said: I heartily congratulate Kristen Burgess on the award of a Gates Cambridge Scholarship to fund her PhD studies at Cambridge University. Her research as an Honours and MSc student under my supervision and the co-supervision of Distinguished Professor Tebello Nyokong has been exceptional. I am sure she will go on to have an outstanding career in scientific research.

Rhodes University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sizwe Mabizela, congratulated Burgess and wished her well. We are immensely proud of Kristen. She is part of the extraordinary scholars produced by this fine institution. Our students and alumni are making remarkable contributions and leading change in many and diverse fields of human endeavour. We expect no less from Kristen. She should continue flying the Rhodes University flag higher, said Professor Mabizela.

Source: Division of Communication and Advancement and Gates Cambridge
250 units of Maruti Ertiga and Mahindra Bolero were inducted into the Delhi Police Fleet

Gone are the days when the Indian police force travelled in open jeeps. The nations police force are now known to drive around in new and sophisticated fleet of vehicles that are modern in all respects and fitted with the latest in safety equipment.

This is exactly what has happened in Delhi where the Police Force have been allotted several new models from Maruti Suzuki, Mahindra and Toyota for their daily patrolling schedule. A total of 850 such vehicles have been approved for operations and patrolling. These include 300 Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, 200 Mahindra Bolero, 100 Mahindra Scorpio and 250 Toyota Innova.

Delhi Police Patrolling Vehicles

These vehicles will be equipped with the latest security gadgets to safeguard foreign dignitaries who will be in the city to attend the upcoming G-20 Summit scheduled to be held on 9th and 10th September 2023. The first lot 100 Ertiga and 150 Bolero were flagged off by Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena, while the rest will be added gradually.

Following the Ministry of Home Affairs approval for procurement of 850 units of light motor vehicles for Delhi Police, efficiency and mobility of the department will see significant improvement. These vehicles will be deployed across the various police stations and will assist the police in their patrolling and other operations.

As on date it is only 250 units of the Ertiga and Bolero added to the fleet while remaining vehicles will be introduced gradually over the next few months. Remaining units of Ertiga, Scorpio, Bolero and Innova will join their fleet in the coming weeks.

New Cars Offer Better Reliability, More Mileage and Safety

The latest version of Maruti Ertiga MPV comes in with a spacious cabin and comfortable seating. It gets a host of safety features such as airbags, anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD).

It also receives a more powerful 1.5 liter K Series petrol engine that offers 104 hp power and 138 Nm torque, mated to a 5 speed manual or 6 speed automatic transmission unit. It offers improved fuel efficiency over its earlier counterpart. As per ARAI certification, the new Ertiga offers 19.34 km/l for 5 speed MT and 18.69 km/l for 6 speed AT.

Mahindra Bolero 7 seater 3 row model is a top seller in the company lineup. It is powered by a 1.5 liter mHawk turbo diesel engine offering 75 hp power and 210 Nm torque mated to a 5 speed manual gearbox.
As revealed in recent teaser, Hyundai Exter (Ai3) will have capabilities across city streets as well as no-road environments

To challenge bestselling Tata Punch, Hyundai will soon launch a new mini-SUV named Exter (Ai3). The term Exter refers to external or outside, which is in sync with the SUVs profile of an explorer. Be it the urban jungles or attractions beyond city limits, Hyundai Exter will be ready for every opportunity to explore the world.

Hyundai Exter has been spotted on road tests in India and overseas as well. It is expected to be launched later this year, most likely during festive season. Exter price range could be Rs 6 lakh to Rs 11 lakh, ex-sh.

Hyundai Exter (Ai3) spied snow testing

Recent spy shots reveal Exter testing in snow, which kind of reveals the SUVs versatile capabilities. Of course, the snow is just around a centimetre. But even that could be problematic if the car does not have the relevant equipment to go with it. This is the first time this new Hyundai SUV has been spied testing in Europe. These spy shots were clicked in Sweden.

As Exters adventurous character has already been revealed in teasers, it is possible that the SUV could get drive modes (off-road mode, city mode, etc), traction control or something similar. Such features could be offered with top-spec variants of Exter.

Rival Tata Punch is also positioned as an SUV with mild-off-roading capabilities. It has features such as traction mode and 187mm of ground clearance. Hyundai will probably be looking to introduce a lot more adventure-focused features with Exter SUV.

The marketing buzz around Exters versatile character will also be a lot more intense. Punch had the first-mover advantage, whereas Exter will have to offer segment-first and best-in-class features to switch loyalties. Sunroof could be a possibility with top-spec variants.

Hyundai Exter will primarily target the young brigade, a segment of buyers that will continue to increase in size in coming years. India has the worlds largest young population, with a significant percentage looking to invest in a new car for the first time.

Hyundai Exter will have sporty styling and a range of hi-tech features that appeal to the younger generation. The SUV has a compact, boxy profile, H-shaped lighting element, sleek grille, LED headlamps and prominent front bumper. Other key highlights include sculpted bonnet, sporty alloy wheels, blacked-out pillars, roof rails, shark fin antenna and edgy tail lamps.

Hyundai Exter (Ai3) powertrain

Hyundai Exter (Ai3) will be a petrol-only car to begin with. It will borrow the 1.2-litre petrol and 1.0-litre turbo petrol motor from Hyundai Venue. The 1.2-litre unit churns out 83 PS of max power and 113.8 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. The turbo unit makes 120 PS and 172 Nm. It is mated to either an iMT or 7-speed DCT.

In comparison, Tata Punch is equipped with a sole 1.2-litre petrol motor. It generates 87.8 PS and 115 Nm. Transmission choices include 5-speed manual and 5-speed AMT. Both Tata Punch and Hyundai Exter could get CNG option and even an electric version in future.

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Source
Netflix's upcoming historical documentary miniseries, Queen Cleopatra, has drawn criticism from Egyptians with former Minister of Antiquities Zahi Hawass criticising the series for providing inaccurate information about ancient Egypt.

Cleopatra was not black; as a Greek, she was similar to the queens and princesses of Macedonia. During the 25th dynasty, the Kingdom of Kush ruled Egypt and those were Kushite pharaohs, but they had nothing to do with ancient Egyptian civilization, Hawas stated on Sunday on his Facebook page.

He explained that he is not against black people at all, but he is just presenting evidence that the queen was not of black descent.

Why is the series receiving backlash?

Narrated and produced by Hollywood actress and Will Smith's wife, Jada Pinkett Smith, "Queen Cleopatra" is part of the African Queens docuseries, which aims to highlight the lives of female African rulers.

The trailer shows a dark-skinned actress playing Cleopatra, causing one commentator to say, I dont care what they tell you in school. Cleopatra was black.

This is where the controversy around the film takes place because, historically speaking, Cleopatra does not have black African roots.

According to scholars from Oxford University, Cleopatra was primarily of Ptolemaic Greek descent, with some Persian and Sogdian Iranian ancestry.

It has been suggested that Cleopatra's mother was from the family of the priests of Memphis. If this were true, then Cleopatra may have had at least 50 percent Egyptian ancestry, Newsweek quoted Betsy Bryan, an Egyptologist at Johns Hopkins University, as saying.

Peoples reactions to the documentary

In the past couple of days, two Egyptians created a petition to cancel the four-episode miniseries on Change.org, which received over 85 thousand signatures in under two days from people around the world.

However, the website suspended the petition, claiming that it violates its community guidelines.

Later on, another petition began widely circulating online to call out Netflix for its falsification of history.

Many internet users argue that while it is essential to acknowledge historical figures of African descent, it is equally important to represent them accurately.

"This has nothing to do with empowering black people; actually, it's the opposite; it's history theft. You need to respect nations' civilizations and histories," a Twitter user said.

This has nothing to do with empowering black people actually is the opposite it's a history theft. You need to respect nation's civilizations and history.    Hiba Shookari (@hibashookari) April 13, 2023

Cleopatra was not black; she was a Greek Queen of Egypt. Even worse, the CEO of Netflix Ted Sarandos is Greek-American. Hes allowing a blackwashing of Greek history, another Twitter user said.

Cleopatra was NOT Black, she was the GREEK Queen of Egypt and is a beautiful connection between Greek and Egyptian civilisations.



Even worse, the CEO of @netflix is "Greek"-American Ted Sarandos. He's allowing a blackwashing of Greek history. https://t.co/VAsI43ocRv  Paul Antonopoulos  (@oulosP) April 13, 2023

The Russian Embassy in Egypt criticised the documentary on Twitter, calling it "American propaganda" and highlighting what they view as double standards in American media regarding freedom of expression.

                      "Netflix"           "https://t.co/ZN5K2Zz0gL"      . pic.twitter.com/mxLDD57OdF  RussianEmbassy EGYPT  (@Rusembegypt) April 16, 2023

Many media outlets and commentators from Greece have also criticised the documentary for historical inaccuracy. Many media outlets and commentators from Greece have also criticised the documentary for historical inaccuracy.

What can we do to combat misleading narratives about Egyptian history?

Monica Hanna, a renowned Egyptologist, suggests producing more Egyptian works that highlight Egypts history and culture.

We [Egyptians] have ancient Egyptian literature containing many stories that can be used to produce thousands of films, but this requires a genuine will to reframe the past in a new way, rather than simply transmitting what others teach people, Hanna said on her official Facebook page.

Hanna emphasised the crucial role that media plays in raising awareness and spreading accurate narratives in international spheres instead of submitting to the dominating narratives that can be inaccurate and misleading.

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Tata Motors has shared official statement after a 9 month old Tata Nexon EV caught fire in Pune

On April 16, 2023, a thermal incident occurred in Pune, Katraj, involving a Tata Nexon EV. As per registration data, this was a 9 month old Neoxn EV, which was registered at the Pune RTO in July 2022. A thermal incident is when something produces heat or fire, which can cause damage or injury, and have even more serious repercussions.

Videos of the car fire showed a quick response in putting the fire out. The good news is that all folks are safe, and a team of technical experts conducted a detailed investigation to determine the cause of the incident.

Uncovering the cause of the Tata Nexon EV fire in Katraj

In this case, the thermal incident was related to the left headlamp of the Tata Nexon EV that had undergone repairs recently. As with any vehicle fire incident, this one raises concerns about the safety of vehicle repairs. And by that extension, the importance of getting them done at authorized workshops.

Tata Nexon EV fire investigation points to the left headlamp replacement. This repair process had shortcomings, which led to a short and trapped heat in the headlamp area. The build up to it happened over an extended period of time. This trapped heat eventually caused an electrical malfunction, which resulted in the thermal incident.

Understanding the Implications of the Tata Nexon Car Fire Incident

Its important to understand the significance of using authorized workshops for vehicle repairs and services. Authorized workshops have trained technicians who are equipped with the necessary knowledge, tools, and parts to carry out repairs safely and efficiently. They follow the manufacturers guidelines and standards, which ensure the quality of the repair work and minimize the risk of any incidents.

On the other hand, unauthorized workshops may not have the same guidance, which may compromise the safety and performance of a vehicle. Additionally, they may not have the necessary expertise or equipment to diagnose and repair complex issues. This can result in incomplete or faulty repairs, which may put the occupants of the vehicle at risk.

Tata Nexon fire incident: A cautionary tale

Its crucial to ensure that your vehicle is repaired and serviced as well. This not only ensures the safety and performance of the vehicle but also protects your investment.

This is not the first instance of a Tata Nexon catching fire this month. NDTV reported the car was in flames earlier in the month. Luckily, no one was injured. At the start of April 2023 too, Tata Motors issued a statement in relation to a Tata Punch fire incident.
The Egyptian soldiers held by the Sudanese Rapid Support Forces (RSF) are safe and in an excellent condition and will be returned when the situation cools down, adviser to the RSF head Ahmed Abdeen told Al-Jazeera on Monday.

The paramilitary group published a number of videos showing Egyptian soldiers apprehended by the RSF in Merowe north of Sudan.

Abdeen apologised for any "individual behavior" towards the soldiers.

Late on Saturday, Head of the RSF Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, aka Hemedti, confirmed that the Egyptian soldiers were safe and sound, stressing that he was willing to cooperate to return them to Egypt.

Dagalo also apologised for the released videos in remarks to Sky News Arabia, and affirmed that the Egyptian soldiers have not resisted the Sudanese RSF personnel.

On Saturday, the Egyptian Armed Forces stressed the importance of "safeguarding the safety and security of Egyptian troops who were in Sudan to conduct joint training with their Sudanese counterparts."

In a statement, the Egyptian Armed Forces said it is closely following up on the events taking place inside Sudan.

Fighting which erupted on Saturday between the army and paramilitaries in Sudan has killed around 200 people and wounded 1,800,

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5 Best CBD Gummies for Pain and Inflammation In 2023

Looking for a strong analgesic? Turn to CBD gummies for pain and enjoy the calm! Find out more about the best CBD gummies for inflammation.
The town of Borrego Springs had known for weeks that a spectacular superbloom of wildflowers was ready to spread across the desert floor  yet when Flowergeddon hit in full glory about a week ago, nobody was fully prepared for the tidal wave of visitors that would follow.

Restaurants ran out of food. People relieved themselves in the desert because there werent enough bathrooms. Store employees quit on the spot, fed up with angry customers whose patience had been exhausted by gridlocked traffic and service delays.

Sheriffs Deputy Billy Painter, who has been based in Borrego Springs for 15 years, said hes never seen anything like it in the region. Not even close, he said.

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Now, with another record-setting weekend approaching, authorities and merchants are scrambling to accommodate the crowds. More sheriffs deputies and California Highway Patrol officers will be on hand, 40 portable toilets are being brought in and distributed around town, and restaurants are stocking their freezers with extra food.

Kathy Dice, the superintendent of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, estimated that roughly 20,000 people are descending on the area on Saturdays and Sundays and maybe half that on weekdays. She said attendance records are being set daily.

1 / 12 Flowers in bloom next to the Welcome to Borrego Springs sign at the west end of town along Palm Canyon Drive on Wednesday. Large crowds are expected this year for the super bloom. (Eduardo Contreras / San Diego Union-Tribune) 2 / 12 With a line out the door, Chris Rogowski, a director of interpretive sales for Anza Borrego Foundation, helps customers seeking flower information. (Eduardo Contreras / San Diego Union-Tribune) 3 / 12 A crowd lines up at the State Park Store to get flower information and maps. (Eduardo Contreras / San Diego Union-Tribune) 4 / 12 State Park peace officer Carina Hammang directs traffic at the corner of Hoberg Road and Palm Canyon Drive. (Eduardo Contreras / San Diego Union-Tribune) 5 / 12 Crowds looking for blooming flowers along Palm Canyon Drive near the visitor center. (Eduardo Contreras / San Diego Union-Tribune) 6 / 12 Parking along Hoberg Road at Palm Canyon Drive near the visitor center. (Eduardo Contreras / San Diego Union-Tribune) 7 / 12 Crowds at the corner of Hoberg Road and Palm Canyon Drive near the visitor center. (Eduardo Contreras / San Diego Union-Tribune) 8 / 12 A group of people enjoy a large bloom of flowers along Di Giorgio Road. (Eduardo Contreras / San Diego Union-Tribune) 9 / 12 Groups of people enjoy large blooms of flowers along Henderson Canyon Road. (Eduardo Contreras / San Diego Union-Tribune) 10 / 12 Cars and people along Henderson Canyon Road. (Eduardo Contreras / San Diego Union-Tribune) 11 / 12 Groups of people head to the fields along Henderson Canyon Road. (Eduardo Contreras / San Diego Union-Tribune) 12 / 12 An unusually large number of cars drive along Palm Canyon Drive. (Eduardo Contreras / San Diego Union-Tribune)

Jeanne Fredericks , owner of Fredericks Ethnic and Ancient Arts in Borrego Springs, said the crowds have been great for business, but agreed that many stores and eateries have struggled to keep up.

Its sad because were running out of food and people are not that patient, she said. They dont realize were little. Theyre coming into town and wondering what kind of town runs out of food? Our restrooms are bombarded.

One look around the landscape and its easy to see why. Flowers are in full bloom all over the desert park and are easy to find.

Just driving into Borrego Springs down Montezuma Valley Road, brilliant colors can be seen around every bend. There are places in the northern part of town where vast fields of flowers are blooming  and where cars filled with tourists are lining the sides of usually desolate roads.

I grew up in San Diego, but this is my first time here, Linda Anderson of La Mesa said Wednesday as she stood in a huge flower field north of Henderson Canyon Road. I could not have imagined it. The desert is generally rugged and raw and rough, but this is so delicate and gentle. The contrast is just spectacular.

Anderson was among many who made the mid-week trip, hoping to avoid the worst of the traffic.

Roughly 15 miles to the west and up the hill from the valley floor in Ranchita, 32 cars passed the lone general store there between 8:16 and 8:21 a.m. Wednesday heading toward Borrego Springs along County Road S-22. Every car had at least two people inside and most had three or four. Most of the people were older, and all looked to be dressed for a day of flower hunting.

And they were running late.

An hour earlier, the large parking lot at the state parks visitor center had already filled and rangers had closed the road leading there.

And in front of the Anza-Borrego Foundations state park store, a crowd of 50 waited for the doors to open at 9 a.m. so they could get maps and directions. The crowds kept pouring in all morning

Weve never been here before, what should we do? asked Tracy Trousat of Hemet, a question repeated all day hundred of times to the overworked staff.

Still, that was nothing compared to last weekend.

Sheriffs Sgt. Brian Jenkins said traffic was backed up 20 miles getting into Borrego Springs on Saturday morning. Some said it took four hours to drive the 25 miles from downtown Borrego to Route 79 near Lake Henshaw Sunday afternoon.

The influx has been tough on the tiny town of Borrego Springs, which is home to only about 1,500 year-round residents. During the winter  when snowbirds arrive  the population can swell to 10,000 or more.

Painter, the sheriffs deputy, said property owners have complained about visitors dumping trash in their yards. Fruit has been stolen from citrus ranches and some people have used the groves to go to the bathroom.

The Sheriffs Department has budgeted for two more deputies and a sergeant to be in town for the next two weekends and the CHP has said it will send two additional units for badly needed traffic control.

The roads out here are not designed for this, Painter said.

Meanwhile, most Borrego business owners are feeling a mixture of exhilaration and exhaustion.

Its been great for sales, said Ben Nourse, co-owner of Borrego Outfitters in The Mall. This has been unprecedented.

We would like to have the town show itself in the best light and, perhaps with this many folks, its a bit challenging for us to do that, he added. On the other hand, my basic feeling is you make hay when the sun shines. Were grateful to have a lot folks here.

The park, businesses, the Rotary Club and the chamber have gotten together and paid for 40 portable toilets to be brought in. They were to arrive by Friday. Many will be placed in downtown Borrego Springs, others will be placed at the parks visitor center and up on Henderson Canyon Road, one of the most popular viewing areas.

Most experts think the height of the bloom is right now  by the end of the month brown could largely return to the desert floor.

Visitors are being advised to come early and on a weekday, wear closed-toe shoes (cacti and snake), and to bring lots of water and a snack.

Linda Haddock, the executive director of the Borrego Springs Chamber of Commerce, said the superbloom shouldnt be missed.

 This is something that hasnt occurred since the 1990s, she said.

How big a deal is it? Haddock met two groups of tourist earlier this week: one was from Hong Kong, the other from Japan.

They came to the United States to see the wildflowers, Haddock said.

jharry.jones@sduniontribune.com; 760/529-4931; Twitter: @jharryjones
Amy Serrano Burcombe plays the electric violin with the backdrop of the Maxcy Winery ruins, circa 1852, at Rancho Guejito, one of the stops on the Rancho Guejito Vineyard wine-tasting tour that will soon be offered to the public.

To fully appreciate the 23,000 acres of the privately owned Rancho Guejito, one has needed an invitation and a helicopter. Seeing the property from the air -- its mountains, mesas, meadows and thousands of rare Englemann oaks -- is breathtaking.

But now, for those willing to lighten their pocketbooks and who have an affinity for nature, wine and adventure, Rancho Guejito will be available to all.

We dont want to be an enigma so much anymore, said Hank Rupp, the chief operating officer of Rancho Guejito. We want to be a sustainable enterprise and pay our own bills.

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To that end, the ranch has gotten into agriculture in a big way. They grow citrus and avocados and wine grapes. Lots of wine grapes.

And soon they will start offering a unique wine-tasting adventure involving a helicopter tour of the property followed by three or four stops where live musicians will serenade guests as they taste various wines being produced by the Rancho Guejito Vineyard.

I like to call it Bach in the backcountry, Rupp said. Were going to do this. Its going to catch on because we have the capital to make it catch on.

The entire property is licensed as one huge wine-tasting area.

I believe its the largest wine-tasting room in the world, said Mike McColloch, an attorney in charge of dealing with the state and federal agencies that oversee wine licensing. I suppose there could be bigger ones, but not that Ive heard of. Certainly not around here.

1 / 21 Amy Serrano Burcombe plays the electric violin with the backdrop of the Maxcy Winery ruins, circa 1852, at Rancho Guejito, one of the stops on the Rancho Guejito Vineyard wine tasting adventure when they begin being offered to the public in the near future. (Howard Lipin / The San Diego-Union-Tribune) 2 / 21 Nicole Park pours wine from the Rancho Guejito Vineyard with a backdrop of the Anderson Homestead, circa 1875, at Rancho Guejito, the 36-square mile privately owned, undeveloped tract near Valley Center that stretches from state Route 78 in the San Pasqual Valley nearly to state Route 76 about 12 miles to the north, the first stop on the Rancho Guejito Vineyard wine tasting adventure that includes a helicopter tour of the ranch. Tours will be offered to the public in the near future. (Howard Lipin / The San Diego-Union-Tribune) 3 / 21 Anderson Flats, part of Rancho Guejito, the 36-square mile privately owned, undeveloped tract near Valley Center that stretches from state Route 78 in the San Pasqual Valley nearly to state Route 76 about 12 miles to the north, visitors on the Rancho Guejito Vineyard wine tasting adventure which includes a helicopter tour of the ranch may see. Tours begin in the near future. (Howard Lipin / The San Diego-Union-Tribune) 4 / 21 Pilot Greg Mattson of Cherry Helicopters lifts off from the Anderson Homestead, circa 1875, at Rancho Guejito, the 36-square mile privately owned, undeveloped tract near Valley Center that stretches from state Route 78 in the San Pasqual Valley nearly to state Route 76 about 12 miles to the north, after dropping off passengers at the first stop on the Rancho Guejito Vineyard wine tasting adventure. Tours will be offered to the public in the near future. (Howard Lipin / The San Diego-Union-Tribune) 5 / 21 Hank Rupp, Rancho Guejito Chief Operating Officer welcomes visitors at the Anderson Homestead, circa 1875, the first stop on the Rancho Guejito wine-tasting tour which includes a helicopter tour of the ranch when they start being offered to the public in the near future. (Howard Lipin / The San Diego-Union-Tribune) 6 / 21 Horses feeding is one of the things visitors on the Rancho Guejito Vineyard wine tasting adventure which includes a helicopter tour of the ranch visitors may see at Rancho Guejito, the 36-square mile privately owned, undeveloped tract near Valley Center that stretches from state Route 78 in the San Pasqual Valley nearly to state Route 76 about 12 miles to the north. The tours will be offered to the public in the near future. (Howard Lipin / The San Diego-Union-Tribune) 7 / 21 Anderson Homestead, circa 1875, at Rancho Guejito, the 36-square mile privately owned, undeveloped tract near Valley Center that stretches from state Route 78 in the San Pasqual Valley nearly to state Route 76 about 12 miles to the north, is one of the stops on the Rancho Guejito Vineyard wine-tasting tour which includes a helicopter tour of the ranch, when the tours are offered to the public in the near future. (Howard Lipin / The San Diego-Union-Tribune) 8 / 21 Pilot Greg Mattson files over Rancho Guejito, heading toward the first stop, the Anderson Homestead, circa 1875, on the Rancho Guejito Vineyard wine tasting tour, which will begin being offered to the public in the near future and includes a helicopter tour of the ranch. (Howard Lipin / The San Diego-Union-Tribune) 9 / 21 Guejito Creek in the Anderson Flats area of Rancho Guejito visitors on the Rancho Guejito Vineyard wine tasting tour, which includes a helicopter tour of the ranch may see when the tours begin being offered to the public in th near future. (Howard Lipin / The San Diego-Union-Tribune) 10 / 21 The water fountain in the courtyard at the main hacienda at Rancho Guejito, the 36-square mile privately owned, undeveloped tract near Valley Center that stretches from state Route 78 in the San Pasqual Valley nearly to state Route 76 about 12 miles to the north, visitors will visit on the Rancho Guejito Vineyard wine-tasting tour when they start being offered to the public in the near future. (Howard Lipin / The San Diego-Union-Tribune) 11 / 21 Citrus growing at Rancho Guejito, the 36-square mile privately owned, undeveloped tract near Valley Center that stretches from state Route 78 in the San Pasqual Valley nearly to state Route 76 about 12 miles to the north, visitors on the Rancho Guejito Vineyard wine tasting tour, which includes a helicopter tour of the ranch may see, when they start being offered to the public in the near future. (Howard Lipin / The San Diego-Union-Tribune) 12 / 21 A lemon tree at the main hacienda at Rancho Guejito, the 36-square mile privately owned, undeveloped tract near Valley Center that stretches from state Route 78 in the San Pasqual Valley nearly to state Route 76 about 12 miles to the north, visitors will visit on the Rancho Guejito Vineyard wine tasting tour when they begin being offered to the public in the near future. (Howard Lipin / The San Diego-Union-Tribune) 13 / 21 Nicole Park, background, pours Rancho Guejito Vineyard wine, while Daniel Plane, right, plays the cello for visitors at the Anderson Homestead, circa 1875, at Rancho Guejito, the first stop on the wine tasting tour which will be offered to the public in the near future. (Howard Lipin / The San Diego-Union-Tribune) 14 / 21 The Maxcy Winery ruins, circa 1852, at Rancho Guejito, one of the stops on the Rancho Guejito Vineyard wine tasting tour which will begin being offered to the public in the near future. (Howard Lipin / The San Diego-Union-Tribune) 15 / 21 Wine from the Rancho Guejito Vineyard is served at the Anderson Homestead, circa 1875, at Rancho Guejito during the Rancho Guejito Vineyard wine tasting tour which will be offerd to the public in the near future. (Howard Lipin / The San Diego-Union-Tribune) 16 / 21 Daniel Plane plays the cello for visitors at the Anderson Homestead, circa 1875, at Rancho Guejito, the first stop on the wine tasting tour, which includes a helicopter tour of the ranch when they begin being offered to the public in the near future. (Howard Lipin / The San Diego-Union-Tribune) 17 / 21 Jonathan Alvarado, foreground, pours wine from the Rancho Guejito Vineyard with a backdrop of the Maxcy Winery ruins, circa 1852, while Amy Serrano Burcombe, background, plays the electric violin during the wine tasting tour at Rancho Guejito, the 36-square mile privately owned, undeveloped ranch near Valley Center that stretches from state Route 78 in the San Pasqual Valley nearly to state Route 76 about 12 miles to the north. Tours will begin being offered to the public in the near future. (Howard Lipin / The San Diego-Union-Tribune) 18 / 21 Pilot Greg Mattson prepares to land at the Anderson Homestead, circa 1875, at Rancho Guejito, the 36-square mile privately owned, undeveloped tract near Valley Center that stretches from state Route 78 in the San Pasqual Valley nearly to state Route 76 about 12 miles to the north, during the Rancho Guejito Vineyard wine tasting tour which includes a helicopter tour of the ranch. Tours which will begin being offered to the public in the near future. (Howard Lipin / The San Diego-Union-Tribune) 19 / 21 The main hacienda at Rancho Guejito, the 36-square mile privately owned, undeveloped tract near Valley Center that stretches from state Route 78 in the San Pasqual Valley nearly to state Route 76 about 12 miles to the north, visitors will visit on the Rancho Guejito Vineyard wine tasting tour, which includes a helicopter tour of the ranch, when they start being offered to the public in the near future. (Howard Lipin / The San Diego-Union-Tribune) 20 / 21 Anderson Flats, part of Rancho Guejito, the 36-square mile privately owned, undeveloped tract near Valley Center that stretches from state Route 78 in the San Pasqual Valley nearly to state Route 76 about 12 miles to the north, visitors on the Rancho Guejito Vineyard wine tasting tour may see during a helicopter tour of the ranch, when tours offered to the public begin in the near futue. (Howard Lipin / The San Diego-Union-Tribune) 21 / 21 Rancho Guejito Chief Operating Officer Hank Rupp looks out from from the main hacienda at Rancho Guejito, the 36-square mile privately owned, undeveloped tract near Valley Center that stretches from state Route 78 in the San Pasqual Valley nearly to state Route 76 about 12 miles to the north. Visitors will visit the hacienda during the Rancho Guejito Vineyard wine tasting tours, when they begin being offered to the public in the near future. (Howard Lipin / The San Diego-Union-Tribune)

Within the ranchs boundaries lies the last undivided Mexican land grant in the state. Environmentalists and historians often call Rancho Guejito the conservation jewel of San Diego County.

The pricing structure for the wine-tasting adventure has not yet been set, but Rupp thinks that for $399 per person, the three-hour tour will soon be offered to anyone willing to pay.

The ranch recently did a test run with a reporter and photographer tagging along.

After a 45-minute aerial tour of the land, which sits about 400 feet above sea level at its southern boundaries in the San Pasqual Valley and rises to over 4,000 feet in the north bordered by the La Jolla Indian Reservation, the first stop was at the ruins of the Anderson Homestead, circa the 1870s. A rose wine-tasting table was set up with crackers and cheese and fruit.

Cellist Daniel Plane played some Bach and other pieces as various red wines were sipped.

A Massachusetts native who moved to the San Diego area just five months ago, Plane, 35, said it was a bit odd to be playing his music in the middle of a vast area.

They want to expand everything theyre offering and I think theyve got something good going on here, he said.

All thats left of the Anderson Homestead ruins are the brick fireplaces because in 2007  thanks to SDG&E, Rupp says  the Witch Creek/Guejito fire destroyed the ruins and thousands of oak trees on the property. The ranch settled a lawsuit against the utility for an undisclosed sum. Some of that money has been used to plant new oaks, by the thousands, all over the property.

From there, the wine-tasting group traveled by SUV to the Maxcy Winery ruins. In the 1850s, Asher Maxcy, whose California Gold rush dreams didnt materialize, got into cattle and wine. He grew 1,500 acres of grapes and built a winery in 1852 that existed for about four decades.

There, where white wines were being offered for tasting, an electric violin was being played in front of the winery ruins by 29-year-old Amy Serrano Burcombe, who was wearing a black, sequined cocktail dress and knee-high boots. She said the boots were both practical and fashionable.

I heard there were rattlesnakes out here so Im being cautious walking around, she said. These boots are style and protection.

The final stop was at the hacienda built in 1974 by the late Benjamin Coates, the billionaire owner of the property who purchased it that year after efforts by the state to acquire it for a park failed. The ranch is now owned by a corporation headed by Theodate Coates of New York City, Benjamins daughter, who comes to visit a couple times a year.

The red wine station featured a singing guitarist and 360-degree views of the southern part of the property from atop a hill. The man pouring the wine, who has been a ranch hand and security officer at the park, is Rupps nephew, Dominic, who said the whole wine thing has opened his eyes to a new experience.

For years, the ranch has been off-limits to the public. Hunting is not allowed because of the fire danger. Rupp said deer and mountain lions use the ranch as a refuge, a free zone where they feel safe and reproduce in vast numbers.

Its like Switzerland to them, Rupp said.

Guejito is also a cattle ranch, home to 1,000 to 2,000 head, depending on the time of year.

Every way we can figure out how to make money on this ranch means we can take better care of the property, Rupp said. The most important thing to the survival of this ranch is a diversified income string. We have cows, we have produce, we have wine. That is what will insure the survival of the ranch and the maintenance of our agricultural enterprises. It costs a lot of money to maintain this property and to keep it as pristine as it is.

For the past year and a half, the ranch has also been offering wine tasting on Sundays near its headquarters off state Route 78, about three miles east of Safari Park on what is known as Rockwood Ranch, which Rancho Guejito purchased in 2007.

Currently, about 40 acres of grapes, 17 varieties, are being grown on the property at different elevations and more vineyards will be planted each year, Rupp said. The grapes are then shipped to a wine-making operation in Escondido where they are crushed, fermented, bottled and labeled. The finished product is sold at the ranch and selected stores in the Escondido area.

There are a lot of wine-tasting rooms in San Diego County.

What do we have thats different from the other wineries? We just happen to back up into a 36-square-mile ranch, Rupp said. We try to capitalize on what we have thats different from the other wineries in addition to having great wine. We want to promote the agri-tourism that can go with the wine. Whats more enjoyable than having a nice glass of wine and looking at what San Diego County looked like 5,000 years ago?

For more information about Rancho Guejito visit ranchoguejitovineyard.com on the web.

jharry.jones@sduniontribune.com; 760/529-4931; Twitter: @jharryjones
Lamar Canadys death was carefully orchestrated.

Mere seconds after the 32-year-old businessman and father of four poked his head out of his Oak Park barbershop  called Official Cutz  he was gunned down in what appeared to be a choreographed hit.

The perpetrators, who had scoped out the location a day earlier, arrived separately on the day of the killing in May 2014. They took up positions near their target, waited for the opportunity to strike and handed off the weapon to the gunman.

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When the deed was done, they made a swift exit.

This is planned; this is experience, Deputy District Attorney Sophia Roach said Friday as she played surveillance video on a monitor in a San Diego courtroom.

The prosecutor pointed to a man in the video whom she identified as Dion Chambers, the accused gunman, and another man she identified as Ian Patrick Guthrie, whom she said was a driver and a lookout. Two other men can be seen in the video, but have not been identified.

Its precision, its timing, Roach told the jury. Everybody has their role.

The defendants are being tried together in front of separate juries. Both Chambers, 51, and Guthrie, 40, face murder charges. Guthrie is charged under a theory of aiding and abetting the killing.

Roach told jurors that both men worked for a Jamaican drug boss who ordered the hit on Canady because he and the boss each had relationship with the same woman. The boss also had been told that Canady was responsible for a significant theft of marijuana, the prosecutor said.

The prosecutor said DNA and fingerprint evidence connects Chambers to the shooting. She said in addition to the video evidence pointing to Guthries involvement, he admitted in an interview with investigators that his boss had ordered the killing.

Defense lawyers argued Thursday and Friday that the prosecution had failed to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that each defendant was involved in the shooting.

Attorney Ryan Pacyga, who represents Chambers, argued that police failed to follow up on their suspicions about a man who worked in the barbershop with Canady and was there at the time of the shooting. He argued that Chambers was in the barbershop, but did not pull the trigger.

Instead, he grabbed the gun after the shooting and ran.

Gretchen von Helms, who represents Guthrie, conceded that her client is a drug dealer but she said he is not responsible for the killing. She argued Friday that Guthrie is not the person in the video who purportedly made phone calls to the gunman.

She said her client made calls the area near 54th and Redwood streets that were related to his drug activity, not to the shooting.

Theyre selling Jamaican ganja all day long, von Helms said.

Guthrie was arrested in Rancho Penasquitos in August 2014. Chambers, also known as Peter Johnson, was arrested around the same time in Kansas City, Mo. Both men have connections to a drug trafficking ring and were in the United States on illegal documents, investigators said.

The jury considering Chambers case began deliberating Thursday. Guthries jury is likely to start deliberations next week.

dana.littlefield@sduniontribune.com
Minister of Emigration and Expatriates Affairs Soha Gendy said on Monday that there have been no confirmed deaths among the Egyptian community in Sudan in the wake of the ongoing deadly clashes in the neighbouring country.

Gendy had a video call with 100 Egyptian students in Sudan and a number of their parents.

During the call, she confirmed that the ministry was regularly communicating with both the Egyptian embassy and consulate and the Egyptian community in Sudan.

The minister stressed that the students should refrain from leaving their houses until the situation becomes stable.

She added that the ministry is studying all scenarios and alternatives as exams draw nearer.

The Ministry of Emigration seeks to assess the extent of danger that the Egyptian students are currently facing in Sudan to review the possibility of setting an urgent evacuation plan based on developments on the ground, Gendy noted.

In this regard, the minister urged the students to fill in the online registration form sent to them to enable the ministry to follow up on their situation and quickly intervene when required.

On Saturday, Gendy said that the ministry is closely monitoring the situation in Sudan to ensure the safety of around 10,000 Egyptians in the country, including 5,000 students.

The Egyptian embassy in Khartoum has urged expatriates in Sudan to exercise maximum caution by staying away from the areas of ongoing fighting and refraining from unnecessary movements until the situation stabilises.

All Egyptians in Sudan can call the Egyptian embassy in Khartoum at: (00249183) 777646  766183

Meanwhile, Pope Tawadros II of Alexandria and Patriarch of Saint Mark Diocese told Egyptian state news agency MENA on Monday that all followers of the Coptic Orthodox Church in Sudan are safe.

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G7 foreign ministers on Tuesday urged warring forces in Sudan to "end hostilities immediately" and return to negotiations, after days of fighting that has killed almost 200 people and wounded 1,800.

A weeks-long power struggle in the north African country exploded into deadly violence Saturday between the forces of two generals who seized power in a 2021 coup: army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his deputy, Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who commands the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

"We urge the parties to end hostilities immediately without pre-conditions," the G7 foreign ministers meeting in Japan said in a statement.

They warned the fighting "threatens the security and safety of Sudanese civilians and undermines efforts to restore Sudan's democratic transition".

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said he had spoken with the two generals and "underscored the urgent need for a ceasefire".

"Too many civilian lives have already been lost," Blinken tweeted, adding he had "stressed the importance of ensuring the safety of diplomatic personnel and aid workers".

Following the call, Daglo said in a tweet that the pair had "discussed pressing issues in Sudan", adding he was grateful for the US's "commitment to restoring stability in Sudan".

Blinken also confirmed a US diplomatic convoy had been fired upon on Monday, though those inside were unharmed, in what he called a "reckless" act.

In a separate incident, the European Union's ambassador to Sudan was attacked in his home in Khartoum on Monday, the bloc's top diplomat Josep Borrell said. A spokesperson told AFP the veteran diplomat was "OK" following the assault.

Terrified residents

Analysts say the fighting in the capital is unprecedented and could be prolonged, despite regional and global calls for a ceasefire as diplomats mobilise.

Battles have taken place throughout the vast country and there are fears of regional spillover of the conflict that has seen air strikes, artillery and heavy gunfire.

Terrified residents of Khartoum are spending the last and holiest days of Ramadan watching from their windows as tanks roll through the streets, buildings shake and smoke from fires triggered by the fighting hangs in the air.

Those compelled to venture out face queues for bread and petrol at outlets that are not shuttered. Residents are also dealing with power outages.

Volker Perthes, the head of the UN mission to Sudan, told the Security Council in a closed-door session Monday that at least 185 people had been killed and another 1,800 wounded.

"It's a very fluid situation so it's very difficult to say where the balance is shifting to," Perthes told reporters after the meeting.

Medics in Sudan had earlier given a death toll of nearly 100 civilians and "dozens" of fighters from both sides, but the number of casualties was thought to be far higher, with many wounded unable to reach hospitals.

The official doctors' union warned fighting had "heavily damaged" multiple hospitals in Khartoum and other cities, with some completely "out of service".

The World Health Organization warned that several Khartoum hospitals "have run out of blood, transfusion equipment, intravenous fluids and other vital supplies".

In the western region of Darfur, international medical aid organisation Doctors Without Borders (MSF) reported receiving 136 wounded patients at the only hospital in El Fasher still operating in North Darfur state.

"The majority of the wounded are civilians who were caught in the crossfire -- among them are many children," MSF's Cyrus Paye said.

Due to limited surgical capacity, "11 people died from their injuries in the first 48 hours of the conflict".

Call for talks

Three UN World Food Programme staff were also among those killed on Saturday in Darfur, where humanitarian missions have had medical and other supplies looted, according to Save the Children and MSF.

A number of organisations have temporarily suspended operations in the country, where one-third of the population needs aid.

"This renewed fighting only aggravates what was already a fragile situation, forcing UN agencies and our humanitarian partners to temporarily shutter many of our more than 250 programmes across Sudan," said UN emergency relief coordinator Martin Griffiths.

Egypt said it had discussed with Saudi Arabia, South Sudan and Djibouti -- all close allies of Sudan -- "the need to make every effort to preserve stability and safety".

President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi called on the two sides to "return to the negotiating table".

There are no more civilian flights arriving in Khartoum, where fighting has damaged aircraft.

Democracy derailed

On Twitter, Daglo earlier called on the international community to intervene against Burhan, branding him a "radical Islamist who is bombing civilians from the air".

"We will continue to pursue Al-Burhan and bring him to justice," said Daglo, whose RSF and its predecessor the Janjaweed in Darfur have previously been accused of atrocities and war crimes.

Army statements call the RSF "a rebel militia" intent on "engaging near populated areas".

The fighting broke out after bitter disagreements between Burhan and Daglo over the planned integration of the RSF into the regular army -- a key condition for a final deal aimed at ending a crisis since the 2021 coup, which derailed a transition to democracy.

Both claim to be in control of key sites, including the airport and the presidential palace -- none of which could be independently verified.

On Monday, the army resumed broadcasting on state TV.

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The Public Prosecution has ordered the release of a new batch of 41 pretrial detainees, announced Tarek El-Awady, a member of the Presidential Pardon Committee, on his Facebook page on Monday.

Those released on Monday list included Al-Jazeera producer Hisham Gharib.

The authorities can keep those facing investigation in pretrial detention for up to two years, per the penal code.

Since the spring of 2022, the Public Prosecution has ordered the release of hundreds of pretrial detainees in successive batches ahead of the national dialogue which is set to start in May.

The Presidential Pardon Committee, first established in 2016 and reactivated by the president in 2022, reviews the cases for political prisoners before recommending their release to the prosecution.

The committee receives requests for release from entities such as the National Council for Human Rights (NCHR), parliaments Human Rights Committee, and through its website.

Also in the past year, President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi has granted pardon to a number of high profile political activists who were serving jail sentences in various cases.

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Egypt has been in direct communication with both parties to the conflict in Sudan and is encouraging them to cease hostilities and return to dialogue, Egypts Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry said in an exclusive interview with CNN earlier on Tuesday.

In exclusive statements to CNNs Christina Macfarlane, Shoukry stated that Egypt has been in contact around the hour with both parties to the conflict in Sudan to achieve a ceasefire.

We hope that the 24-hour ceasefire between the two sides will hold and will open further doors of communication that can lead to renewed peaceful dialogue to resolve the situation, Shoukry, who was speaking from Cairo via videoconference, said hours before the ceasefire came into effect in Khartoum.

The ceasefire went into effect on Tuesday at six PM Khartoum local time.

He was then asked whether the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) are sceptical of Egypts involvement due to President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisis alleged support of the Sudanese Armed Forces.

In response, Shoukry affirmed Egypts impartiality and historical relations with Sudan's various political factions.

I think the president was very clear yesterday when he made the statement about the nature of this conflict, which is an internal one, thereby we maintain impartiality and total commitment to the best conditions for the Sudanese people, stated the foreign minister.

Shoukry was referring to the Egyptian Presidents statement on Monday during his meeting with the Supreme Council of Armed Forces in Cairo.

The escalating violence and its impact on military and civilian casualties are of great concern to us. But, again, the best interests of Sudan and its population drive us, and we continue to do so to the best of our abilities, he said.

The host then asked the foreign minister whether Egypt was in contact with the RSF and whether the RSF was receptive to such communication.

Shoukry responded by saying that Egypt is communicating with all who influence this issue, whether the Sudanese army or the RSF, adding that Egypt hopes both parties take heed of its appeals for calm and restraint and the cessation of hostilities.

He was then asked about the situation on the ground in Sudan and whether any of the parties to the conflict had the upper hand.

In response, Shoukry said this was an issue for the military to evaluate, adding that they were monitoring to the best of their abilities within a degree of fluidity and conflicting reports.

What we highlight is the importance of a ceasefire and maintaining the best interests of the Sudanese people, avoiding further casualties and opening a dialogue for a peaceful settlement of this dispute and again indicating its internal nature and the need for all foreign interest and influence to restrain itself and not to aggravate the situation further, he said.

The foreign minister added that the statements issued by various members of the international community and by the Secretary General of the UN have all indicated the importance that the international community takes steps to encourage restraint and avoid any escalation of the situation.

During the interview, Shoukry reaffirmed that this stage focuses on peaceful dialogue to end the conflict. He added that Egypt was currently in communication with various neighbouring countries, the United States, the EU, and all those who can play an active role in communicating the importance of reaching a peaceful solution to this crisis.

Macfarlane then asked him about the Egyptian soldiers currently held in Sudans Merowe by the RSF. In response, the foreign minister said that he refrained from particulars, adding that Egypt is communicating to ensure the safety of those soldiers.

Shoukry added that Egypt has many active participants in various aspects of life in Sudan, whether in education, irrigation, or agriculture.

We are thus carefully monitoring the situation and its impact on all Egyptian citizens in Sudanese territories, he stated.

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Human skin is home to millions of microbes. One of these microbes, Staphylococcus aureus, is an opportunistic pathogen that can invade patches of skin affected by eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis.

In a new study, researchers at MIT and other institutions have discovered that this microbe can rapidly evolve within a single person's microbiome. They found that in people with eczema, S. aureus tends to evolve to a variant with a mutation in a specific gene that helps it grow faster on the skin.

This study marks the first time that scientists have directly observed this kind of rapid evolution in a microbe associated with a complex skin disorder. The findings could also help researchers develop potential treatments that would soothe the symptoms of eczema by targeting variants of S. aureus that have this type of mutation and that tend to make eczema symptoms worse.

"This is the first study to show that Staph aureus genotypes are changing on people with atopic dermatitis," says Tami Lieberman, an assistant professor of civil and environmental engineering and a member of MIT's Institute for Medical Engineering and Science. "To my knowledge, this is the most direct evidence of adaptive evolution in the skin microbiome."

Lieberman and Maria Teresa Garcia-Romero, a dermatologist and assistant professor at the National Institute of Pediatrics in Mexico, are the senior authors of the study, which appears today in Cell Host and Microbe. Felix Key, a former MIT postdoc who is now a group leader at the Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology, is the lead author of the paper.

Bacterial adaptation

It is estimated that between 30 and 60 percent of people carry S. aureus in their nostrils, where it is usually harmless. In people with eczema, which affects about 10 million children and 16 million adults in the United States, S. aureus often spreads to eczema patches and infects the skin.

"When there's a break in the skin, Staph aureus can find a niche where it can grow and replicate," Lieberman says. "It's thought that the bacteria contribute to the pathology because they secrete toxins and recruit immune cells, and this immune reaction further damages the skin barrier."

In this study, the researchers wanted to explore how S. aureus is able to adapt to living on the skin of eczema patients.

"These microbes normally live in the nose, and we wanted to know whether when it finds itself on atopic dermatitis skin, does it need to change to live there? And can we learn something about how these bacteria are interacting with atopic dermatitis skin from watching its evolution?" Lieberman says.

To answer those questions, the researchers recruited patients aged 5 to 15 who were being treated for moderate to severe eczema. They took samples of the microbes on their skin once a month for three months, and then again at nine months. Samples were taken from the backs of the knees and inside of the elbows (the most common sites affected by eczema), the forearms, which are usually not affected, and the nostrils.

S. aureus cells from each sample site were cultured separately to create up to 10 colonies from each sample, and once large colonies formed, the researchers sequenced the cells' genomes. This yielded nearly 1,500 unique colonies, which enabled the researchers to observe the bacterial cells' evolution in much greater detail than has previously been possible.

Using this technique, the researchers found that most patients maintained a single lineage of S. aureus -- that is, it was very uncommon for a new strain to come in from the environment or another person and replace the existing S. aureus strain. However, within each lineage, a great deal of mutation and evolution occurred during the nine months of the study.

"Despite the stability at the lineage level, we see a lot of dynamics at the whole genome level, where new mutations are constantly arising in these bacteria and then spreading throughout the entire body," Lieberman says.

Many of these mutations arose in a gene called capD, which encodes an enzyme necessary for synthesizing the capsular polysaccharide -- a coating that protects S. aureus from recognition by immune cells. In two out of six deeply sampled patients, cells with capD mutations took over the entire S. aureus skin microbiome population, the researchers found. Other patients were colonized with strains initially lacking a functional copy of the capD, for a total of 22 percent of patients lacking capDat the end of the study. In one patient, four different mutations of capD arose independently in different S. aureus samples, before one of those variants became dominant and spread over the entire microbiome.

Targeted treatment

In tests of bacterial cells growing in a lab dish, the researchers showed that mutations to capD allowed S. aureus to grow faster than S. aureus strains with a normal capD gene. Synthesizing the capsular polysaccharide requires a lot of energy, so when cells don't have to make it, they have more fuel to power their own growth. The researchers also hypothesize that loss of the capsule may allow the microbes to stick to the skin better because proteins that allow them to adhere to the skin are more exposed.

The researchers also analyzed nearly 300 publicly available genomes of bacteria isolated from people with and without eczema, and found that people with eczema were much more likely to have S. aureus variants that could not produce the capsular polysaccharide than people without eczema.

Eczema is usually treated with moisturizers or topical steroids, and doctors may prescribe antibiotics if it appears that the skin is infected. The researchers hope that their findings could lead to the development of treatments that lessen eczema symptoms by targeting S. aureus variants with mutations in the capsular polysaccharide.

"Our findings in this study provide clues as to how Staph aureus is evolving inside hosts and reveal some of the features that might help the bacteria to stay on the skin and generate disease versus being able to be swiped off," Garcia-Romero says. "In the future, S. aureus variants with mutations in the capsular polysaccharide could be a relevant target for potential treatments."

Lieberman's lab is now working on developing probiotics that could be used to target the capsule-negative S. aureus strains. Her lab is also studying whether S. aureus strains with capD mutations are more likely to spread to other members of an eczema patient's household.

The research was funded by MISTI Global Seed Funds, the National Institutes of Health, the Burroughs Wellcome Fund, the Mexican Government Ministry of Taxes Program for Health Research and Technological Development, and a German Research Foundation fellowship.
Early diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer's disease requires reliable and cost-effective screening methods. Researchers at Karolinska Institutet in Sweden have now discovered that a type of sugar molecule in blood is associated with the level of tau, a protein that plays a critical role in the development of severe dementia. The study, which is published in Alzheimer's & Dementia, can pave the way for a simple screening procedure able to predict onset ten years in advance.

"The role of glycans, structures made up of sugar molecules, is a relatively unexplored field in dementia research," says the study's first author Robin Zhou, medical student and affiliated researcher at the Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society (NVS), Karolinska Institutet. "We demonstrate in our study that blood levels of glycans are altered early during the development of the disease. This could mean that we'll be able to predict the risk of Alzheimer's disease with only a blood test and a memory test."

In Alzheimer's disease, the neurons of the brain die, which is thought to be a result of the abnormal accumulation of the proteins amyloid beta and tau. Clinical trials for Alzheimer's drugs show that treatment should commence early in the pathological process, before too many neurons have died, to reverse the process before it is too late.

More blood biomarkers needed

There is both a practical and a financial need for non-invasive screening methods for Alzheimer's. Markers in blood are preferable, as taking samples of the cerebrospinal fluid is more difficult and brain imaging is expensive.

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have now shown that the level of a certain glycan structure in blood, denoted bisected N-acetylglucosamine, can be used to predict the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.

The research group has previously demonstrated a link between tau protein and glycan levels in people with Alzheimer's disease, but these analyses were done on cerebrospinal fluid. Glycans are sugar molecules found on the surface of proteins, the building blocks of life, and determine the location and function of these proteins in the body.

By measuring blood glycan levels the researchers found that individuals with matching levels of glycans and tau were over twice as likely to develop Alzheimer's-type dementia.

"We also show that a simple statistical model that take into account blood glycan and tau levels, the risk gene APOE4 and a memory test, can be used to predict Alzheimer's disease to a reliability of 80 per cent almost a decade before symptoms such as memory loss appear," says corresponding author Sophia Schedin Weiss, docent at NVS, Karolinska Institutet.

17-year follow-up

The results are based on 233 participants of the Swedish National Study on Aging and Care in Kungsholmen (SNAC-K). The samples were collected between 2001 and 2004, and the participants were monitored regularly with respect to factors such as memory loss and the presence of dementia. The follow-ups were carried out every three to six years and continued for 17 years.

The researchers will now be analysing blood samples from the remaining participants of the SNAC-K study as well as from participants of other aging studies in and outside Sweden.

"We're collaborating with researchers in primary care in Sweden to evaluate different biomarkers for dementia at primary health care centres," says Dr Schedin Weiss. "We hope that glycans in the blood will prove to be a valuable complement to current methods of screening people for Alzheimer's disease that will enable the disease to be detected early."

The study was conducted by researchers in Lars Tjernberg's research group at the Division of Neurogeriatrics at Karolinska Institutet in collaboration with the Aging Research Centre at Karolinska Institutet, the Stockholm Gerontology Research Center and Karolinska University Hospital.
Twisted molecules play an important role in the development of organic light-emitting diodes. A team of chemists has managed to create these compounds with exactly the three-dimensional structure that they wanted. In so doing, they are smoothing the path for new and better light sources.

They flash as a warning, glow red on standby mode, and light up your dinner table; light-emitting diodes (LEDs) have become indispensable in our daily lives. Somewhat less well-known, but just as ubiquitous, are organic light-emitting diodes, or OLEDs for short. This technology is used in the screens of smartphones, tablets and monitors. It is cheaper to produce in the form of a thin-film component, but cannot yet compete with conventional LEDs in some ways, such as in light output and lifespan.

In the search for new molecules that possess the characteristics needed for OLEDs, compounds known as helicenes are playing a central role. Helicenes are a group of substances in which rings made up of six carbon atoms (benzene rings) are joined together in a helical structure. When synthesizing these compounds, it was previously difficult to control the direction in which the molecules twist -- their "chirality." It was only possible with certain types of helicenes and to a very limited extent.

A new concept in synthesis

Professor Olivier Baudoin, Dr. Shu-Min Guo and Soohee Huh from the University of Basel's Department of Chemistry have just made an important step forward. In the latest issue of Nature Chemistry, they describe a new concept in the synthesis of these important chiral molecules.

In their synthesis route, the Basel researchers make use of a reaction that can split a carbon-hydrogen and carbon-bromine bond and create a carbon-carbon bond. This is called C-H activation, and over the past few years it has developed into a valuable tool in synthesis. This method allows chemists to create helicenes with the desired chirality, and could also be suitable for longer chains of benzene rings.

Researchers at Universite Paris-Saclay in France have been able to demonstrate that the products synthesized by the team from Basel strongly absorb and emit circularly polarized light -- an important characteristic for the development of new materials that rely on twisted molecules, as OLEDs do.

"Our results show the great potential of this strategy for the synthesis of such complex functional molecules," says Olivier Baudoin. In their next step, he and his team intend to synthesize more complex helicenes with improved characteristics.
Female monarch butterflies have no trouble finding a mate -- even when a parasite kills most of the males, new research shows.

Some females carry a parasite called Spiroplasma that kills all their male offspring, meaning highly infected populations have very few males.

But the new study -- by the universities of Exeter, Rwanda and Edinburgh, and the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund -- found females mated about 1.5 times on average, regardless of how many males were around.

The male proportion dropped below 10% in some cases, but it appears the remaining hard-working males managed to breed with most of the available females.

10-20% of females remained unmated, only slightly higher than the expected average in a population with plenty of males (5-10%).

"It was an inspiring and powerful experience working along with an international team of experts and advancing our knowledge of monarchs, which will shape my future career path towards research-based conservation," said first author Vincent Rutagarama, a student at the University of Rwanda.

Professor Richard ffrench-Constant, from the Centre for Ecology and Conservation on Exeter's Penryn Campus in Cornwall, said: "It seems that monarch butterflies are very good at finding each other and mating.

"The proportion of males in butterfly populations fluctuates through the year, but we found consistent evidence of female breeding success all year round."

Dr Ian Gordon, of the University of Rwanda, said this breeding success might explain how the male-killing parasite can be successfully transmitted in a population where males are rare.

"The irony is that if the entire population was infected, monarch butterflies -- also known as African queens -- would produce no more princes, and the parasite would die out along with the butterflies," Dr Gordon said.

"Further research is now needed, to find out why some monarch butterflies remain uninfected, and therefore able to produce healthy male offspring.

"Future research could also explain why the male-killing parasite is currently confined to a sub-section of the East African 'contact zone' (where prevailing winds converge, bringing flying insects together)."

Professor ffrench-Constant said other butterfly species have evolved resistance to parasites like Spiroplasma, so monarchs -- which are very numerous and widespread -- are unlikely to be at risk.

However, several years of severe drought in East Africa have caused a food crisis for humans and damaged biodiversity and ecosystems.

"We hope the monarch butterfly could become a symbol of conservation across Africa," Professor ffrench-Constant said.

"Monarchs live in savanna habitats. When there is rain, they thrive. When there is no rain, there are no butterflies, no cattle and no food for humans.

"The future of the monarch butterfly is tied to that of the continent, and humanity must tackle the climate and environment crisis to secure that future."

In butterflies and moths, successful breeding involves the transfer of a "spermatophore" from the male to the female. Spermatophores remain detectable after breeding.

In this study, carried out at one site in Rwanda and another in Kenya, male-female ratios were regularly counted and 10 randomly selected females were dissected each month to count spermatophores.

The research was funded by the National Geographic Society, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo and the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund.
In a unique analysis of experimental data, nuclear physicists have made the first-ever observations of how lambda particles, so-called "strange matter," are produced by a specific process called semi-inclusive deep inelastic scattering (SIDIS). What's more, these data hint that the building blocks of protons, quarks and gluons, are capable of marching through the atomic nucleus in pairs called diquarks, at least part of the time. These results come from an experiment conducted at the U.S. Department of Energy's Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility.

It's a result that has been decades in the making. The dataset was originally collected in 2004. Lamiaa El Fassi, now an associate professor of physics at Mississippi State University and principal investigator of the work, first analyzed these data during her thesis project to earn her graduate degree on a different topic.

Nearly a decade after completing her initial research with these data, El Fassi revisited the dataset and led her group through a careful analysis to yield these unprecedented measurements. The dataset comes from experiments in Jefferson Lab's Continuous Electron Beam Accelerator Facility (CEBAF), a DOE user facility. In the experiment, nuclear physicists tracked what happened when electrons from CEBAF scatter off the target nucleus and probe the confined quarks inside protons and neutrons. The results were recently published in Physical Review Letters.

"These studies help build a story, analogous to a motion picture, of how the struck quark turns into hadrons. In a new paper, we report first-ever observations of such a study for the lambda baryon in the forward and backward fragmentation regions," El Fassi said.

In like a lambda, out like a pion

Like the more familiar protons and neutrons, each lambda is made up of three quarks.

Unlike protons and neutrons, which only contain a mixture of up and down quarks, lambdas contain one up quark, one down quark and one strange quark. Physicists have dubbed matter that contains strange quarks "strange matter."

In this work, El Fassi and her colleagues studied how these particles of strange matter form from collisions of ordinary matter. To do so, they shot CEBAF's electron beam at different targets, including carbon, iron, and lead. When a high-energy electron from CEBAF reaches one of these targets, it breaks apart a proton or neutron inside one of the target's nuclei.

"Because the proton or neutron is totally broken apart, there is little doubt that the electron interacts with the quark inside," El Fassi said.

After the electron interacts with a quark or quarks via an exchanged virtual photon, the "struck" quark(s) begins moving as a free particle in the medium, typically joining up with other quark(s) it encounters to form a new composite particle as they propagate through the nucleus. And some of the time, this composite particle will be a lambda.

But the lambda is short-lived -- after formation, it will swiftly decay into two other particles: a pion and either a proton or neutron. To measure different properties of these briefly created lambda particles, physicists must detect its two daughter particles, as well as the beam electron that scattered off the target nucleus.

The experiment that collected this data, EG2, used the CEBAF Large Acceptance Spectrometer (CLAS) detector in Jefferson Lab's Experimental Hall B. These recently published results, "First Measurement of ? Electroproduction off Nuclei in the Current and Target Fragmentation Regions," are part of the CLAS collaboration, which involves almost 200 physicists worldwide.

SIDIS

This work is the first to measure the lambda using this process, which is known as semi-inclusive deep inelastic scattering, in the forward and backward fragmentation regions. It's more difficult to use this method to study lambda particles, because the particle decays so quickly, it can't be measured directly.

"This class of measurement has only been performed on protons before, and on lighter, more stable particles," said coauthor William Brooks, professor of physics at Federico Santa Maria Technical University and co-spokesperson of the EG2 experiment.

The analysis was so challenging, it took several years for El Fassi and her group to re-analyze the data and extract these results. It was her thesis advisor, Kawtar Hafidi, who encouraged her to pursue the investigation of the lambda from these datasets.

"I would like to commend Lamiaa's hard work and perseverance in dedicating years of her career working on this," said Hafidi, associate laboratory director for physical sciences and engineering at Argonne National Lab and co-spokesperson of the EG2 experiment. "Without her, this work would not have seen fruition."

"It hasn't been easy," El Fassi said. "It's a long and time-consuming process, but it was worth the effort. When you spend so many years working on something, it feels good to see it published."

El Fassi began this lambda analysis when she herself was a postdoc, a couple of years prior to becoming an assistant professor at Mississippi State University. Along the way, several of her own postdocs at Mississippi State have helped extract these results, including coauthor Taya Chetry.

"I'm very happy and motivated to see this work being published," said Chetry, who is now a postdoctoral researcher at Florida International University.

Two for one

A notable finding from this intensive analysis changes the way physicists understand how lambdas form in the wake of particle collisions.

In similar studies that have used semi-inclusive deep inelastic scattering to study other particles, the particles of interest usually form after a single quark was "struck" by the virtual photon exchanged between the electron beam and the target nucleus. But the signal left by lambda in the CLAS detector suggests a more packaged deal.

The authors' analysis showed that when forming a lambda, the virtual photonhas been absorbed part of the time by a pair of quarks, known as a diquark, instead of just one. After being "struck," this diquark went on to find a strange quark and forms a lambda.

"This quark pairing suggests a different mechanism of production and interaction than the case of the single quark interaction," Hafidi said.

A better understanding of how different particles form helps physicists in their effort to decipher the strong interaction, the fundamental force that holds these quark-containing particles together. The dynamics of this interaction are very complicated, and so is the theory used to describe it: quantum chromodynamics (QCD).

Comparing measurements to models of QCD's predictions allows physicists to test this theory. Because the diquark finding differs from the model's current predictions, it suggests something about the model is off.

"There is an unknown ingredient that we don't understand. This is extremely surprising, since the existing theory can describe essentially all other observations, but not this one," Brooks said. "That means there is something new to learn, and at the moment, we have no clue what it could be."

To find out, they'll need even more measurements.

Data for EG2 were collected with 5.014 GeV (billion electron-volt) electron beams in the CEBAF's 6 GeV era. Future experiments will use electron beams from the updated CEBAF, which now extend up to 11 GeV for Experimental Hall B, as well as an updated CLAS detector known as CLAS12, to continue studying the formation of a variety of particles, including lambdas, with higher-energy electrons.

The upcoming Electron-Ion Collider (EIC) at DOE's Brookhaven National Laboratory will also provide a new opportunity to continue studying this strange matter and quark pairing structure of the nucleon with greater precision.

"These results lay the groundwork for upcoming studies at the upcoming CLAS12 and the planned EIC experiments, where one can investigate the diquark scattering in greater detail," Chetry said.

El Fassi is also a co-spokesperson for CLAS12 measurements of quark propagation and hadron formation. When data from the new experiments is finally ready, physicists will compare it to QCD predictions to further refine this theory.

"Any new measurement that will give novel information toward understanding the dynamics of strong interactions is very important," she said.
Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi has expressed readiness to mediate and restore calm between battling parties in Sudan, reiterating that the presence of Egyptian forces in Sudan is solely for training purposes and not to support any particular party.

El-Sisis remarks came while chairing a meeting of the Supreme Council of the Egyptian Armed Forces on Monday night, where he emphasised Egypt's efforts to reach a prompt solution to the ongoing Sudanese crisis to prevent more bloodshed in Sudan.

He expressed Egypt's readiness to play a mediating role to restore calm between the Sudanese parties, to achieve security and stability in the country.

The Egyptian president also affirmed that intensive communications are taking place to ensure the safety and security of Egyptian forces in Sudan.

On Saturday, the Egyptian Armed Forces said in a statement that it "is coordinating with the concerned parties in Sudan to ensure securing the Egyptian troops who were conducting joint training with their Sudanese counterparts."

The Egyptian Armed Forces statement was issued shortly after the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), led by Mohamed Hamdan "Hemedti" Dagalo, released a video on its official Twitter account showing several personnel wearing Egyptian military fatigues who were purportedly apprehended at Marawi airbase in northern Sudan.

Late on Saturday, the Head of the Sudanese Rapid Support Forces (RSF) Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, aka Hemedti, apologized for the released videos in remarks to Sky News Arabia, stressing that he was willing to cooperate to return them to Egypt.

On Monday, Adviser to the RSF head Ahmed Abdeen also apologized for any "individual behaviour" towards the soldiers, in remarks to Al-Jazeera.

Late on Monday, Minister of Emigration and Expatriates Affairs Soha Gendy said that there have been no confirmed deaths among the Egyptian community in Sudan.

Internal Affairs and Egypts Mediation

President El-Sisi pointed out that what is happening in Sudan is an internal matter that "should never be interfered with so as not to inflame the status quo there."

He emphasized Egypt's stance of not interfering in the internal affairs of other countries, warning of the consequences of interfering in Sudan's internal affairs.

"Egypt is always keen, through its foreign policies, for its position to be balanced and moderate with the issues of the entire region," El-Sisi said.

This, he says, comes as each country has its own specificity in managing its internal affairs, stressing the need for cooperation between countries within the framework of development and construction, away from interference in the internal affairs of countries.

El-Sisis call for non-interference in the crisis echoes remarks by Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukrys remarks during his calls earlier on Monday with his French, Djiboutian, Saudi and South Sudanese counterparts, in which Shoukry stressed the need for foreign parties to refrain from any interference in the Sudanese conflict so as not to exacerbate its severity.

Importance of Dialogue

El-Sisi highlighted the importance of negotiations in Sudan to resolve the crisis. He called on Sudanese parties to negotiate and sit down to resolve the current situation in the country, citing some countries currently suffering from instability and insecurity due to their refusal to engage in dialogue and resorting to the use of weapons and violence.

He referred to contacts with the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, to restore calm and sit at the dialogue table with "the brothers in Sudan, whether with the Sudanese Army or the Rapid Support Forces."

The Egyptian president indicated that communications with both Sudanese parties "are continuous" to stop the bloodshed and restore stability.

On Sunday, Egyptian FM Shoukry briefed the Chair of the African Union Commission Moussa Faki on Egypt's efforts to de-escalate the crisis in Sudan ahead of Faki's then-planned visit to Khartoum.

Egypt, which is currently holding consultations with the concerned parties both inside and outside Sudan to defuse the current crises, said the foreign ministry in a separate statement.

At the request of Egypt and Saudi Arabia, the Arab League convened an emergency meeting at the level of permanent representatives, in which it called for the immediate halt of all armed clashes in Sudan to avoid further bloodshed and to protect the lives of the Sudanese people as well as Sudans sovereignty and territorial integrity.

On the same day, Shoukry had a call with Sudan's Foreign Minister Ali Ahmed Karti to discuss de-escalating efforts.

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The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities has extended opening and closing hours of the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir and the Giza Plateau starting Eid.

The Egyptian Museum in Tahrir - also known as the Old Egyptian Museum - will extend its opening hours to from 9am to 7pm, instead of 5pm, starting Friday 21 April.

Meanwhile, the opening hours of the Giza Plateau, which is home to the Great Pyramids of Giza, will be from 7am to 6pm, instead of 5pm, starting May first.

Mostafa Waziry, secretary general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, asserted that this decision came to meet the influx of visitors to both the Tahrir museum and Giza Plateau.

All tourist agencies were informed of the new schedule for visiting hours to accordingly change their visiting programmes, Waziry added.

The normal visiting hours of the museum were from 9am to 5pm and in Ramadan was from 9am to 4pm.

Meanwhile, the Giza Plateau opens from 7am to 5pm and during Ramadan from 8am to 4pm.

Egyptians have the duration from 20 to 25 April as a paid holiday for both Eid El-Fitr and Sinai Liberation Day.

Eid El-Fitr is expected to be observed on Saturday in countries that depend on the sighting of the new moon by the naked eye -- in the event no crescent could be sighted on Thursday.

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On April 11, 2023, the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York entered a final judgment against Donald G. Blakstad, a self-employed individual from San Diego. On November 21, 2022, the Court entered final judgments against Robert J. Maron, a personal friend of Blakstad, and Martha Patricia Bustos, a former accountant at Illumina, Inc. and close friend of Blakstad.

According to the SEC's amended complaint, Bustos tipped Blakstad material, nonpublic information concerning at least four different Illumina quarterly performance announcements. Blakstad enlisted two individuals to trade on his behalf ahead of two of the announcements, and also tipped Maron and at least three other individuals, each of whom traded in advance of at least one of the announcements. After receiving the tip, Maron purchased out-of-the-money, near-expiration Illumina put option contracts in an account owned by his friend Joubin Torkan, which generated $900,000 in unlawful profits for Maron and $113,833 for Torkan. Torkan previously settled the SEC's relief defendant claims against him, agreeing to disgorge $113,833 and to pay prejudgment interest of $8,606, which the Court approved on September 29, 2021.

Blakstad and Bustos were both charged criminally by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York. On June 8, 2021, Blakstad was convicted at trial of: (1) conspiracy to commit securities fraud; (2) securities fraud in violation of Section 10(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act") and Rule 10b-5 thereunder; (3) conspiracy to commit wire fraud; (4) wire fraud; and (5) aiding and abetting. The Court sentenced Blakstad to 36 months of imprisonment; three years of supervised release; criminal forfeiture of $4,518,103; restitution of $669,000; and an assessment of $700.

Bustos pleaded guilty to (1) securities fraud; (2) conspiracy to commit securities fraud; and (3) conspiracy to commit wire fraud. The Court sentenced her to time served, two years of supervised release, criminal forfeiture of $12,000, a criminal fine of $20,000, and 250 hours of community service.

In the SEC action, both Blakstad and Bustos have consented to the entry of judgments enjoining them from violations of Section 10(b) of the Exchange Act and Rule 10b-5 thereunder. Blakstad was ordered to pay disgorgement of $3,639,784, plus prejudgment interest of $188,068. Bustos was ordered to pay disgorgement of $12,000. For each, the monetary judgments were deemed satisfied by the orders of forfeiture against them in the criminal matters.

Maron consented to the entry of a judgment permanently enjoining him from violation of Section 10(b) of the Exchange Act and Rule 10b-5 thereunder and ordering that he pay a civil penalty of $1,800,000.

Additionally, on April 17, 2023, the Commission entered an administrative order suspending Bustos from appearing or practicing before the Commission pursuant to Rule 102(e)(2) of the Commission's Rules of Practice based on her criminal conviction.

Blakstad also was charged and agreed to settle the securities fraud charges against him in Securities and Exchange Commission v. Blakstad, et al., Civil Action No. 1:20-cv-00163 (S.D.N.Y., filed January 8, 2020), as described in the litigation release for that case.

The litigation was led by Christopher R. Kelly and supervised by Gregory R. Bockin of the SEC's Philadelphia Regional Office. The SEC's investigation that led to this action was conducted by Patricia A Paw and Brian R. Higgins, and supervised by Brendan P. McGlynn and Scott A. Thompson, all of the Philadelphia Regional Office.
Hundreds of Oakland families are pushing back against a threatened teachers strike in a rare show of opposition as district and union officials continue to argue over wages and other working conditions.

The Oakland Education Association, which represents about 3,000 educators, called for a strike vote, which started Monday and will continue during the next few days, saying the district has refused to bargain in good faith. If supported by a majority of teacher votes, the union could call a strike before the end of the school year. It would likely be limited to a few days rather than an indefinite action.

The two sides have been in negotiations since the fall.

The call for a vote sparked a community petition opposing any strike, with nearly 350 signatures early Monday afternoon.

We are pushing hard on our Oakland community, from the hills to the flatlands, to stand up for zero disruption of our students learning, according to the petition posted Saturday morning on Change.org. All of our students are recovering right now, and only 3 out of 10 can read or do math on grade level. Put our students first!

Lakisha Young, founder and CEO of the literacy-focused nonprofit Oakland Reach, helped draft the petition, saying families are left out of the bargaining process, but they are the ones to pay when the union calls a strike.

If youre going to negotiate in the back room, keep the impact in the back room, she said. Weve seen this pattern. Every time its time to negotiate, theres always a strike. Weve become indoctrinated into this behavior like its OK.

Its not OK, she said, adding that previous walkouts or strikes have forced the district to shut down schools, including a walkout a year ago over school closures, leaving the districts 34,000 students in limbo. Young has advocated for parents to be present at negotiations.

You can support teachers without supporting kids learning being disrupted, Young said. Dont use our kids as a bargaining chip.

Its unclear whether a strike now would be illegal because the two sides have not officially reached an impasse or exhausted a mediation process, which is typically required before calling a labor strike. Instead, the Oakland Education Association is alleging the district is not bargaining in good faith and has filed a Uniform Labor Complaint with the state, which could allow for a strike before fulfilling the bargaining process.

Los Angeles Unified workers walked out for three days in March over a similar complaint, with district schools closed to their half-million students during the strike. The citys mayor, Karen Bass, stepped in to mediate and help settle the contract dispute after the third day.

The Oakland teachers union has demanded a 23% raise, as well as other increases to benefits and working conditions. The increase would mean a starting salary of nearly $67,000 and a top end of nearly $118,000.

District officials have proposed about a 22% increase to the salary schedule starting next year, with a one-time $3,000 in back pay, putting Oakland teachers above average in pay across the region.

The district is facing the prospect of insolvency in future years, given declining enrollment and the end of pandemic recovery funding. The district has been using the one-time money to help pay continuing bills, which means making significant budget adjustments to cover costs in the future.

We cant do everything proposed, district officials said in a labor negotiations update Saturday. Providing our educators the raise they deserve is top priority.

District officials cited updates posted on the Oakland Unified website and social media posts. They did not otherwise respond to requests for comment.

Union officials in a negotiations update a week ago said the districts offer only applied to tenured teachers and not other staff, including career technical educators, who dont fall under that category.

The union also demanded increases in support services, including more counselors, social workers and other resources as well as reducing class sizes, with the youngest students in classes of 20 or fewer students, compared with 24 now, and high school academic courses averaging less than 30, down from 32.

Instead of negotiating a contract for the safe, stable, and racially-just schools our students deserve, OUSD has bargained in bad faith and broken labor law, the union posted on social media when announcing the strike vote this week.

Union officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment Monday.

The strike vote follows a wildcat strike on March 24, with an estimated 400 teachers participating in an unsanctioned walkout for one day to draw attention to the lack of progress in settling the contract. The organizers remained committed to a long-term strike.

A fixed 1-3 day action might be effective, but only as a preparatory organizing drive so that we can go on an all-out strike come fall, according to the group in an update last week. If OEA fails to authorize a strike, we can engage in more wildcat actions this spring, possibly rolling strikes across OUSD.

Parent Ben Ochstein, whose daughter attends Montclair Elementary, was among those who signed the petition against the strike vote.

This isnt about our teachers, he said, adding that they deserve fair wages. I dont think a strike is a fair thing for our students.

Some of those who signed the petition echoed similar sentiments.

Actions like this are driving many families out of Oaklands public schools and further hurting the stability of our public schools, according to a comment attributed to parent Bonnie Wittenstein, a former Oakland Unified teacher who left in 2021 over frustration with the union's opposition tor reopening schools. This is not the way. Kids are the losers here.

Ochstein and Young said it appeared that the union was organizing in the hills community, including information in PTA newsletters and texts from teachers, appealing to more privileged families to back them in the bargaining process and if they strike.

Lower-income families cant afford to miss work to stay home with their kids during a long- or short-term strike, which is why the union doesnt want to seek support from the thousands of parents in the flatlands, many associated with Oakland Reach, Young said.

Flatlands folks dont know whats happening right now, she added. Part of the point were making is, our families dont know. If they did know what was going on, they would be supportive of a good raise for teachers, but they would want to know why they have to suffer as a result.
After two years of enrollment declines at San Francisco public schools, new data shows a slowdown in the exodus from the citys public schools. Enrollment at non-charter public schools fell by about 400 students this past fall, an improvement from the loss of about 2,600 between 2020 and 2021.

Still, the district has lost almost 4,000 students from non-charter schools since 2019. Some observers have contended the decline was the result of the districts tumultuous first two pandemic years, which included controversies, lawsuits and the recall of three board members.

But the districts enrollment loss matches whats seen in districts across the state, suggesting these declines are a result of population changes  specifically record-low birth rates and a California exodus  more so than district-specific struggles.

In the fall of 2019, SFUSD had more than 52,000 students in its non-charter schools. But with each year of the pandemic, fewer students enrolled, with the biggest loss between 2020 and 2021 when enrollment dropped by about 2,600.

During this time, enrollment at the citys charter schools fell more modestly  by 1,500 from 2019 to 2022. Meanwhile, private school enrollment in the city actually went up. The number of students attending S.F. private schools with at least six students increased by about 400 students from the summer of 2020 to the summer of 2022.

The increase in enrollment at S.F. private schools is likely even greater since county-level enrollment data excludes private schools with fewer than six students. That means its missing data on homeschooled students. Homeschool programs in California are typically set up through existing private or charter programs or by filing a private school affidavit and opening up ones own private home-based school. As a result, homeschooled students are generally counted as enrolled in private schools with fewer than six students.

State-level data on the number of private schools with fewer than six students suggests a large increase in the number of homeschooled students in California. In the summer of 2021, the state had about 20,000 more of these small private schools operating than in the summer of 2019.

Overall, the number of private school and homeschooled students in California increased by about 30,000 from the summer of 2019 to the summer of 2021. Charter school enrollment grew by about 20,000 students from the fall of 2019 to the fall of 2022, while public school enrollment fell by 320,000 during the same period  a 5.8% decrease compared to a 7.6% decline at San Francisco public schools.

The steep drop in Californias public school enrollment during the pandemic isnt fully explained by the rise in homeschooling and private school enrollment. According to an analysis by the Associated Press and Big Local News, more than a third of the decline in Californias public school enrollment is the result of changes in the states school-aged population (ages 5-17). The analysis found that, between 2019 and 2021, the school-aged population in California dropped by an estimated 96,000  a result of the states declining birth rate and families moving out of California.

SFNext is Chronicle coverage devoted to the city's most vexing problems. To become involved: Send feedback, ideas and suggestions to sfnext@SFChronicle.com

San Franciscos school age population fell during the pandemic as well, suggesting that was also a factor in its fall in public school enrollment.

Over the last several decades, San Franciscos decline in public school enrollment has actually been more gradual than in some of the states other large districts. For example, the Los Angeles Unified School District, the states largest district, has averaged a 2% year-over-year enrollment loss for the past 20 years. Other southern California districts have also had enrollment declines going back decades, including San Diego Unified and Long Beach Unified.

Even during the pandemic, enrollment loss at SFUSD non-charter schools (7.6%) was far lower than at L.A. Unified (11.5%) and Santa Ana Unified (12.4%).

Data on student assignments for the upcoming 2023-24 school year suggests another year of flat or falling enrollment for SFUSD. According to the districts first-round results for 2023-24 student assignments, about 14,000 families applied for placement into SFUSD schools this year, which is slightly fewer than applications received in the previous cycle. Of the 14,000 families who sent applications, some will decline their seats at SFUSD schools for enrollment at private or charter schools in San Francisco or nearby counties, but we wont know just how many opt for these alternatives until enrollment numbers are published a year from now.

Reach Nami Sumida: nami.sumida@sfchronicle.com
The Federal Aviation Administration temporarily grounded Southwest Airlines departing flights Tuesday morning after the airline reported technical problems, the agency said.

The pause was lifted just after 8 a.m., about 30 minutes after the FAA announced on Twitter that the airline requested the FAA to pause its departures because they experienced a technical issue with one of their internal systems.

Dan Landson, a spokesperson for Southwest Airlines, told The Chronicle in a statement that the airlines paused flights to work through data connection issues resulting from a firewall failure.

Early this morning, a vendor-supplied firewall went down and connection to some operational data was unexpectedly lost. Southwest Teams worked quickly to minimize flight disruptions, the statement said.

At San Francisco International Airport, one Southwest flight was canceled and 22 were delayed, shortly after 8 a.m. according to the flight tracking website FlightAware.

Airport spokesperson Doug Yakel said, We just got word that their flights are being released for departure so whatever issue they had appears to have been resolved.

In December, Southwest Airlines had a meltdown that led to hundreds of canceled flights across the country, including the Bay Area, amid a brutal winter storm.
Before Napa and Sonoma became big-name, luxurious tourist destinations, they looked and felt a lot like Anderson Valley: quieter and rural, with no traffic, resorts or fancy restaurants. Tastings took place at a makeshift bar, not inside a flashy, reservations-only visitor center serving $200 lunch from a Michelin-trained chef.

While Napa and Sonoma have become lamentably expensive and challenging to visit, with tasting fees and hotel costs on the rise, Anderson Valley, a small wine region farther north, has remained much the same throughout the decades. And many Bay Area wine lovers looking for an alternative will find Anderson Valley checks a lot of the boxes. You can show up at most wineries without an appointment. Check. Tasting fees average $20-$25. Check. Kids and dogs are almost always welcome. Check. The wines are good. Check. The scenery is spectacular. Check.

Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle

Yet Anderson Valley wine country is still largely uncharted. Most people who have visited vaguely recall it as the sleepy place they passed through on their way out to the Mendocino coast. (Like a layover at an airport, it doesnt really count.) Others have it confused with Healdsburgs Alexander Valley. Some have only heard of it, likely from a bottle of Anderson Valley Brewings Boont Amber Ale.

Those who have opted to stay there and spend a few days often find themselves inducted into an unofficial secret society whose mission is to keep Anderson Valley firmly off the radar. For a really long time, its worked.

It helps that Anderson Valley isnt exactly easy to get to. A two hour-and-15-minute drive from San Francisco  without traffic  the region is typically reached by a long haul up Highway 101, followed by a slow and snaking crawl along Highway 128.

Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle

This year marks the 40th anniversary of Anderson Valleys official government approval as an an American Viticultural Area, or wine region. For decades, the wine community has patiently waited in the shadow of its towering redwoods for its moment of discovery.

But this is not to say that Anderson Valley is perfect. Its rustic and those seeking a luxurious vacation wont find one here. There are no five-star resorts, spas or white-tablecloth restaurants. Nightlife is nonexistent. Lodging is scarce. Theres also a tug-of-war between the wine industry and Anderson Valleys longtime residents. The latter dont want tourism; they fear it will spoil the remote and quiet pocket they sought out for those very reasons.

Our hope is that this collection of stories will provide a comprehensive snapshot of the charming, yet complicated, Anderson Valley wine country. Youll find our recommendations for the top tasting rooms to visit, learn about the wines that put the region on the map  Pinot Noir, bubbly and Riesling  and the challenges that continue to prevent Anderson Valley from booming.

Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle

Youll meet some of the eclectic personalities that have helped shape this treasured destination, including a rare, all-women crew of vineyard workers. We even go a little beyond wine: adorable dairy goats that live on a winery and make cheese to pair with your Pinot; a local pepper farm trying to re-create an expensive French seasoning; and a secret local language (as it says on the Welcome to Anderson Valley sign, gormin gannos shies the shoveltooth).

Perhaps these stories will serve as inspiration to take a trip and see for yourself what lies at the end of that long, switchbacked road.

Top Anderson Valley Wineries The best tasting rooms to visit in Californias hidden-gem wine region A wine tasting at Goldeneye Winery, one of the most luxurious in Anderson Valley. Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle From Boonville to Philo, here are the 10 best places in Anderson Valley for tastings of world-class Pinot Noir, sparkling wine and more. Go to story

Locals want to keep it secret  but at what cost? This California wine region is at a crossroads The benefit is that were remote. Its also a setback. Tourists look out at the remote and undiscovered Anderson Valley wine country, where there are no crowds, resorts or fancy limos. Lisk Feng/Special to The Chronicle Anderson Valley has all the ingredients to a breakout wine destination. But several factors  including its remote location, lack of infrastructure and anti-development locals  are holding it back. Will this region ever go mainstream? Go to story

This adorable goat makes some of the best cheese in California The G.O.A.T. Musette yields 414 gallons of milk per year, enough to make 350 pounds of cheese. Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle Meet Musette, a 5-year-old champion cheese maker at Pennyroyal Farm in Anderson Valley. Go to story

Gorgeous white wines were this regions claim to fame. What happened? A swan song for Riesling and Gewurztraminer Deborah Cahn and Ted Bennett, owners of Navarro Vineyards, moved to Anderson Valley in 1973 to make Gewurztraminer. Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle In Anderson Valleys early days, the regional specialty was Alsatian-style wines like Riesling and Gewurztraminer. Now, these noble grapes are becoming something of an endangered species. Go to story

A California wine regions hot new crop: this expensive pepper The quest to grow local Espelette A pepper haul from Boonville Barn Collective, clockwise from top: guajillo chile, yahualica chile de arbol and mulato chile. Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle Imported Espelette peppers, a cornerstone of Basque cuisine, are very expensive. So an Anderson Valley farm is growing its own. Go to story

The worlds largest collection of canned wines is hidden in an Anderson Valley basement Allan Green has cans you wouldnt believe Allan Green, a retired Anderson Valley winemaker, among his cans at his home in Philo. Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle Canned wine has been hailed as a new, convention-bucking trend in recent years. But Allan Greens record-setting collection of canned wines dates back to the 1930s. Go to story

Its one of Californias best wine shops. Its also in the middle of nowhere Its really like going to a fine wine shop in France. People drive hours to visit the Disco Ranch wine shop. Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle From the outside, Disco Ranch doesnt look like much: a rustic, barn-like building. Inside, it's a European-inspired, epicurean dream filled with Champagne, one of the best Anderson Valley wine selections in the country and a bevy of other artisanal products. Go to story

The secret force behind an acclaimed California vineyard? An all-female crew At Wendling Vineyard, women call the shots The Wendling Vineyard crew. Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle Ive never seen another, said one top winemaker of this rare, all-women vineyard team. Go to story
Canned wine has been hailed as a new, convention-bucking trend in recent years. But Allan Green knows better.

At his home in Philo, in Mendocino Countys Anderson Valley, Green keeps what is likely the worlds largest collection of wine cans  and his specimens date back to the 1930s. A survey of the roughly 3,000-strong collection makes clear that canned wine has gone through multiple boom and bust periods since the end of Prohibition. Really, Green said, theres nothing new or trendy about it.

The shelves in his canned-wine room, located in the homes basement, form a colorful, international, intergenerational hodgepodge. There are cans, all empty, of wine from Ukraine, India, the Netherlands; from the 1930s, 40s, 50s. There are the ubiquitous modern brands, like Underwood. Fancy French Beaujolais. All manner of spritzers, coolers and even something called wine soda.

Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle

Ill take anything that has grape wine in it, said Green.

Green is an unlikely librarian of this tradition. Now retired, hes a former vintner, graphic designer and radio DJ (his Straight Ahead Rock n Roll Show ran for 11 years on Philos KZYX). After his family came to Anderson Valley in 1971, Green established Greenwood Ridge Vineyards, which became known for Riesling and which Green sold to Wilson Artisan Wineries in 2016.

The canning obsession began when Green was in college  but at first, he collected beer cans. We just sort of made a pyramid, he said of his dorm-room display scheme. By 1980, hed amassed 5,000.

When a friend gave him a can of Bear Creek wine from the 1930s  a Lodi winery that canned sweet, fortified, high-alcohol wines like Port and Sherry  it lit a spark for Green. Collecting cans of wine felt more challenging, and more unique, than beer. There are thousands of beer-can collectors out there, Green said. But Ive been doing this for 40 years and I have not yet met anyone else that collects wine cans specifically.

By 2015, his collection had grown to 449 wines, enough to land him in that years Guinness Book of World Records.

Since then, he said, hes added about 2,500 more. That really shows the explosion of wine in cans, Green said of the recent increase.

Sure enough, though canned wine may not be novel, it has seen a notable boom time during the last five years. Once, wineries had to make large volumes of canned wine to justify the cost; now, its easy for anyone to can a small, one-off batch.

Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle Left: Some of Greens vintage cans. Right: Green in the upstairs level of his home, which was designed by his father Aaron Green, an associate of Frank Lloyd Wright and one of the main architects on the Marin Civic Center. Photos by Lauren Segal/Special To The Chronicle Top: Some of Greens vintage cans. Bottom: Green in the upstairs level of his home, which was designed by his father Aaron Green, an associate of Frank Lloyd Wright and one of the main architects on the Marin Civic Center. Photos by Lauren Segal/Special To The Chronicle

Green wishes that technology had been around when he still owned Greenwood Ridge. Hed always wanted to make canned wine there. But attempts to partner with Anderson Valley Brewing Co., the only local canner, proved futile, he said.

The technology has certainly come a long way since the 1930s.

In that era, immediately following Repeal, canning was hot. The first canned beers were sold in the U.S. in 1935, and wines came practically in tandem. (As far as Green knows, the earliest American wine cans were released in 1936.) But these early canned wines were sweet, which made them microbially unstable. Many of them spoiled quickly, according to Green. People blamed the vessel, preventing canned wine from taking off with the same force as beer did.

The cans themselves evolved over time. The flat-top steel cans that were popular in the 1930s required an opener. By the 1940s, crown-capped wine cans arrived, as easy to open as a bottle of soda. The 1950s saw cans with conical tops, as well as some efforts in large-format canning  a Connecticut company sold sacramental wine in a quart-size can, Green said.

Subsequent decades brought pull tabs (seen on wines from Sonoma Countys Italian Swiss Colony in the 1960s); short, squat cans (popular with Italian wineries in the 1980s); and mini-cans that resemble a Hoodsie cup in their dimensions (like the 80s-era cans of Villa Bianchi, in Fresno County, whose wine coolers became the most widely distributed wine cans of their time, sold in 45 states).

A canned-wine renaissance took place in the 1980s, not just in California but around the world. Airlines began serving canned wines onboard: Anyone flying United could enjoy a 6.3-ounce tin of wine, white or red, from Taylor California Cellars. At the same time, many English supermarket chains began commissioning their own canned wine brands, sourced from vineyards in France, Germany and Italy. Greens shelves display products like Stowells of Chelseas Moscato Frizzante and Grants of St. James Lambrusco Bianco.

Then, for a while, the enthusiasm waned. Wine sales exploded in the U.S. throughout the 1990s, and people wanted to trade up from cheap wine coolers like Bartles & Jaymes to sophisticated bottles of Chardonnay and Merlot. Canned wine became synonymous with bad wine.

Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle

You can buy a lot of crummy wine in bottles too, Green pointed out.

Green traces the origin of todays revival to 2004, when Francis Ford Coppola Winery released Sofia Blanc de Blancs in tiny, pink cans with straws attached. But it would be another decade or so before there was a critical mass of dry, high-quality  even boutique  wines packaged in cans, with the advent of California brands like Fiction and Alloy, both made by Field Recordings in Paso Robles (San Luis Obispo County).

The quality got so high, in fact, that in 2019 Green started the International Canned Wine Competition. (As the longtime organizer of the Mendocino County Fair Wine Competition, he had experience running such an enterprise.) A panel of nine judges convenes every July in Anderson Valley to evaluate the entries, which last year numbered around 300, from 17 countries, Green said.

He still scours eBay for vintage cans, but these days Green is able to do most of his sourcing directly from wineries websites. Hes on the email lists of more than 500 wineries, he estimated, all of which have produced at least one canned wine. As cans go premium, the cost of collecting is rising. One of his recent purchases is a 250 ml can of 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon from Oakville Wine Merchant  for a cool $65. (Thats equivalent to a $195 full-size bottle.)

It seems evident, looking at all of these smart new additions to Greens collection, that were living in the golden age of canned wine.

But Green knows better. Just as canned wine has gone through ups and downs before, he said, it will have ups and downs yet. If were not living in the golden age now, he said, we might be getting close.
Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi has called for the continuation of ongoing efforts to spread the moderate teachings of Islam and the true image of the Islamic faith.

El-Sisi added that hard work is the "way to realising success".

His remarks came while delivering a speech at the Laylet El-Qadr (Night of Decree or Night of Power) celebration ceremony on Tuesday. The ceremony was held by the Religious Endowments Ministry at Al-Manara International Conference Centre in New Cairo.

Laylat El-Qadr, the holiest night in Islam, falls within Ramadans final ten days, and although the exact date is unidentified, it is commonly thought of as the Holy months 27th day.

The president extended greetings to the attendees and the great Egyptian people as they celebrate Laylet El-Qadr and the advent of Eid El-Fitr (the lesser Bairam).

El-Sisi wished Egypt and both Arab and Islamic nations peace and security and lauded the efforts of those memorising the Holy Quran in Egypt and various parts of the world.

He called on them to understand the Quran so that it guides them through life.

"Allah Almighty has singled out this night in the month of Ramadan to reveal the Quran. This makes it the night of safety, security, peace, mercy, enlightenment, and guidance," the president added.

This great night provides an opportunity to reflect on the enormous change brought about by the message of Islam, which spread across the world and permeated all walks of life, El-Sisi added.

"May Allah Almighty guide humanity to the path of rationality and reason, and may He inspire all of us with righteousness and wisdom so that we can strive to please Him and fulfil our peoples hope for a better future," he concluded.

During the event, the president honoured the winners of the 29th edition of the international Quran competition.

El-Sisi awarded the winners in the first category of the contest. These winners have demonstrated competence in memorising the entire Quran, reciting the Quran according to the rules of pronunciation (known in Arabic as Tajweed), and understanding its meaning.

The winner, Maher Mohamed Abdel-Nabi, from Egypt, won a prize of EGP 250,000.

Furthermore, three members of the same family won a prize of EGP 100,000 each.

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On a chilly, stormy day at Wendling Vineyard, Romelia Fernandez ladles hot posole from an enormous cauldron into colorful ceramic bowls. The 14 women who work for her line up, piling their soups high with cabbage, radishes and tortilla chips, then take their seats at picnic tables under the awning of the tractor shed thats sheltering them from the oncoming rain. Its noon, but theyve worked nearly a full day already, tying vines to the trellis to ensure they grow in the right direction.

After serving the group, Fernandez is the last to sit down to lunch, even though shes the guest of honor. Today is her 54th birthday.

Fernandez is the leader of the crew that farms Wendling Vineyard, one of Anderson Valleys top sites for Pinot Noir. Shes also our mom, jokes Wendlings owner, Paul Ardzrooni. She spends her days directing her workers as they move through the vineyards various seasons: pruning the shoots, thinning the leaves, harvesting the fruit. And on special occasions  Mothers Day, big harvest days and, every March 7, her own birthday  she makes her workers a big pot of posole.

Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle Top: The Wendling Vineyard crew. Back row (left to right): Arcelia Flores, Sandra Orosco, Laura Manzo Reyes, foreperson Romelia Fernandez, Maria Cortez Garcia, Ana Manzo, Silvia Alvarez Magana, Patricia Lua Garibay, Autumn Lorentino and Cristal Rangel Ceja. Front Row (left to right): Maria Gutierrez, Ma Guadalupe Silva Pena, Yesenia Martinez Madrigal and vineyard owner Paul Ardzrooni. Above: Romelia Fernandez, left, the foreperson at Wendling Vineyard; vineyard owner Paul Ardzrooni. Photos by Lauren Segal/Special To The Chronicle

A decade ago, seeing a woman at the helm of a California vineyard would have been unusual. Because the work requires strength and endurance, women were long thought, in accordance with sexist stereotypes, to be unfit for it. Over time, shifting norms  and a shortage of male labor  have brought more women into vineyard work. Seeing them in the fields is no longer a rarity, and its more common than it used to be to see a woman foreperson.

What is still very rare, however, is seeing a vineyard crew made up entirely of women, as Fernandezs team at Wendling is.

Ive never seen another, says Littorai Wines owner Ted Lemon, who buys Pinot Noir grapes from Wendling.

The existence of Fernandezs crew is especially notable in isolated, sparsely populated Anderson Valley. While vineyard owners in more crowded areas like Napa and Sonoma counties frequently complain of not being able to find enough labor, Fernandez has cultivated a loyal, skilled set of women who mostly live here in Philo, a town with a population of 319.

Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle Cristal Rangel Ceja, far left; Autumn Lorentino with Ana Manzo, right. Photos by Lauren Segal/Special To The Chronicle Top: Cristal Rangel Cej; Bottom: Autumn Lorentino, left, with Ana Manzo, right. Photos by Lauren Segal/Special To The Chronicle

This tight-knit crew has distinguished itself as a meticulous, dependable presence in the vineyard, drawing praise from Wendlings winery clients  which include Fel, Auteur, Cobb and Reeve  for the consistency of the fruit they farm. Compared with others, when I visit Romelias crew, I sense there is clearly better communication, says Lemon. A greater sense of camaraderie on a daily basis between the team members.

Ardzrooni credits that culture to Fernandezs calm, confident mode of leadership.

Fernandez moved to Anderson Valley in 2001 from Tepic, in the Mexican state of Nayarit, bringing her three sons with her. Her husband, Arturo, had arrived first a few years earlier to work for Ardzroonis vineyard-management company, which is based in Anderson Valley but also oversees vineyards in Napa and Sonoma counties.

Moving from a city with hundreds of thousands of people to Philo, a town whose population is nearly 70% white, was jarring. It was hard at first to adapt, Fernandez says, but we did adapt. The Hispanic/Latino population of Mendocino County has boomed in the years since, growing by 14% between 2007 and 2016, according to the Center for Economic Development at Cal State Chico. Fernandez came to love the peacefulness of the community, the proximity to the ocean, the plentiful redwoods.

Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle Laura Nancy Manzo, left; Ma Guadalupe, right. Photos by Lauren Segal/Special To The Chronicle Laura Nancy Manzo, top; Ma Guadalupe, bottom. Photos by Lauren Segal/Special To The Chronicle

There arent many job opportunities in Philo outside of wine and agriculture, so she decided to try to work alongside Arturo. She knew nothing about farming. Over time, she learned her way around the grapevines. She proved herself enough that, 12 years ago, Ardzrooni tapped her for a big promotion: He was getting ready to plant his own vineyard, Wendling, and wanted Fernandez in charge of it.

Now, Arturo is semiretired, and Romi is really in her prime, says Ardzrooni.

The group she formed for Wendling became so successful that it inspired Ardzrooni, who employs about 100 people in total, to launch a second all-female crew a few years later for other vineyards he is contracted to farm in Anderson Valley. That one is led by Adela Fuentes.

Wendling is a challenging site to farm. Its the last vineyard in Anderson Valley before the Pacific Ocean, just under 10 miles from the coast as the crow flies. This is the deepest point of the so-called deep end  how locals refer to the valleys far northwestern edge. It gets the coldest weather in Anderson Valley; generally, temperatures drop by about 1 degree for every mile traveled north from Boonville toward Philo. Wendlings location might make it too marginal for Pinot Noir, except that its protected from the harshest cooling effects by its southeastern exposure and a ridge that blocks some of the coastal winds.

Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle

The 22 acres of grapevines are planted on steep, rolling slopes  the sort of jagged landscape that would make mechanization impossible. Theres an industrial way to grow wine grapes, and this is the opposite, says Ardzrooni. Because the soil depth and composition varies significantly within the site, Lemon asked if Fernandezs crew could install two different irrigation systems within the same block of vines  a labor-intensive endeavor that hes never had to ask for at any other vineyard. The answer: no problem.

Despite its wild topography, Wendling looks remarkably tidy, each vine nearly identical  a testament to Fernandezs crews attention to detail. Consistency matters in vineyards because it makes it more likely that fruit will ripen evenly from vine to vine, preventing a situation at harvest time where the grapes in one part of a row are sweet and plump while those on neighboring vines are still tart.

An additional obstacle is that different parts of the vineyard are farmed according to different protocols, based on the preferences of the winemakers who buy the fruit. Lemons vineyard block is farmed biodynamically, a philosophy that incorporates the lunar calendar; other sections are organic; the rest follow sustainable practices, which encourages environmentally friendly techniques but still allows for the use of certain synthetic chemicals. The workers must apply distinct treatments to each section of vines, careful not to cross-contaminate.

Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle

Biodynamics is particularly demanding: For the Littorai blocks, Fernandez must follow the biodynamic calendar, which dictates that certain farming practices must be done on certain days. (Compost can only be spread during a period when the moon is descending, for example.) When asked if this is a bother, Fernandez shrugs. Its all the same to me, she says.

Fernandezs crew works on other vineyards managed by Ardzrooni, too, but Wendling is where they spend most of their time. And Wendling is her undisputed favorite, Fernandez says, because I planted it.

That fondness comes through in the distinctive character of the Wendling Pinot Noirs. For me it has a combination of darker, more intense fruit with great acidity and pretty significant tannin, says Lemon. Unlike some Anderson Valley vineyards, which are known for expressing lighter, red-fruit flavors, Wendling can produce Pinots that taste powerful and brooding, an unexpected feature in such a cool climate.

As they scoop into their steaming bowls of posole, Fernandezs colleagues talk about what its like to work with an all-women crew. Theres more trust, says Elidia Rodriguez. I prefer it. Harvest, she adds, is her favorite time of year, despite the fact that its also the most stressful  and requires the earliest wake-up times, since grapes are usually picked in the middle of the night, when cool temperatures help preserve the fruits acidity.

Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle

The women are not only coworkers  theyre also each others entire community. Most of them live in Philo and send their children to the same schools. Their care for Wendling Vineyard is an extension of their care for the place where they live.

Next to the table of posole toppings is another stacked with wrapped presents, a cake and birthday balloons, a fitting celebration for the crews leader. They wanted to show their appreciation for her today. Still, the women say, its typical of Fernandez to have stayed up late, preparing a big meal for a crowd, the night before her own birthday.

Theyve emptied their bowls. Now its back to the vines.
Its springtime in the small Mendocino County town of Boonville, and the big red barn at Pennyroyal Farm is buzzing with a sound that Erika McKenzie-Chapter, Pennyroyals herd manager and cheese maker, calls the maternity hum. Its almost like a gentle snore: the heavy, collective breathing of dozens of pregnant goats curled up together in the hay.

Among them is Musette, a 5-year-old prize doe, who has just given birth to two tiny, knob-kneed daughters. Like their mother, they have a mix of dark and light fur and wide-set, yellow eyes.

Visitors come to Pennyroyal, the first winery north of the Welcome to Anderson Valley sign, to pair earthy Pinot Noir with creamy fresh chevre. But they also come to meet the real cheese makers, Musette and the rest of the herd: about 250 playful goats and 40 sheep, who star in twice-daily tours from Thursday to Sunday. During kidding season, baby goats like Musettes newborns are a particular attraction for families. Kids love kids, McKenzie-Chapter said.

Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle Top: Musette, a 5-year-old doe, is one of the top milk producers at Pennyroyal Farm, a winery and creamery in Anderson Valley. Above left: Musettes kids, Bluegrass (left) and Bossa Nova (right). Above right: After milking, goats at Pennyroyal graze in fields. The animals and the vineyard enjoy a symbiotic relationship. Photos by Lauren Segal/Special To The Chronicle Top: Musette, a 5-year-old doe, is one of the top milk producers at Pennyroyal Farm, a winery and creamery in Anderson Valley. Above: Musettes kids, Bluegrass (left) and Bossa Nova (right). Bottom: After milking, goats at Pennyroyal graze in fields. The animals and the vineyard enjoy a symbiotic relationship. Photos by Lauren Segal/Special To The Chronicle

Its a virtuous cycle. The animals prune the weeds and their manure fertilizes the vines. Meanwhile, the visitors they attract typically buy wine, a higher revenue item that helps subsidize the small dairy and creamery, an expensive business to maintain. (California has just 75 cheese makers of any size.) Without these adorable kids, there might be no cheese at all  and not just because goats must regularly give birth to produce milk.

Of Pennyroyals herd, Musette is one of McKenzie-Chapters favorites. She wears her name tag, for the benefit of visitors, on a metal chain, and her herd ID number, K103, is tattooed on her ear for the sake of the American Dairy Goat Association. But McKenzie-Chapter can recognize Muse by her soft black fur, with a v of tan frosting, as breeders sometimes call it, extending from her mouth to her short, elf-like ears. She is literally doe-eyed, calm and serene, a rarity for a goat of her sometimes naughty breed.

She is also productive: Musette yields 414 gallons of milk per year, tangy and rich in butterfat, enough to make 350 pounds of cheese. (The average for a goat in Pennyroyals herd is 303 gallons per year.)

Musette was born in this barn on Feb. 26, 2018. She was named Bal Musette, for a style of French accordion music, in homage to her mother, Zydeco, a fixture of the American Dairy Goat Associations top 10 list for production. Her father, Goat-San Dill, was a carefully chosen mate, a strong buck with a pointy beard.

In 2019, shortly after Musette had her first kids and began to lactate, McKenzie-Chapter trimmed her scraggly belly with clippers and loaded her onto a livestock trailer with about 10 other goats. They drove north to Redmond, Ore., for the American Dairy Goat Associations National Show, the Westminster Dog Show of the dairy goat world. With thousands of animals in competition, its a near literal breeding ground for goat talent, an important place to scout for new genetics to add to a herd.

Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle Above left: Goats walk to the milking parlor 36 at a time, twice a day. Above right: The barn where Musette and her herd live is covered with solar panels. Photos by Lauren Segal/Special To The Chronicle Above left: Goats walk to the milking parlor 36 at a time, twice a day. Above right: The barn where Musette and her herd live is covered with solar panels. Photos by Lauren Segal/Special To The Chronicle

Seeing only your own goats every day, you get barn blind, said McKenzie-Chapter. You like what you see, but you don't know how it stacks up to anybody else.

Musette stacked up nicely, taking second place yearling, or 1-year-old, for her breed. The judge inspected her udder, roughly the size of a bowling ball between her hind legs, and awarded it first place. The win was validation. Were supposed to be here, McKenzie-Chapter thought.

Back at Pennyroyal, Musette put her prize-winning udder to work.

Every morning, she and her herd wake up when the lights go on at 5 a.m. They hear the clang of the morning milker preparing equipment and know what comes next. The milker leads them in groups of 36 to the open-sided milking parlor, where they line up on platforms in two back-to-back rows, their tails all facing the aisle in the middle. Creatures of habit, they typically choose the same spot day after day, munching sweet oats and molasses from a feeder while theyre attached to a semiautomatic milking machine.

Their milk is combined into an 80-gallon tank, delivered by forklift to the creamery 200 feet away. The still-warm morning milk goes directly into the cheese vat, smelling of buttered popcorn, to make raw milk cheeses like Boont Corners, a nutty Tomme. Another tank of cold, fattier milk from a second milking the previous evening is pasteurized to make fresh cheese like Laychee, a spreadable chevre. (It, like all of Pennyroyals cheeses, is named with the antique local lingo called Boontling, in which laychee means milk.)

Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle Above left: Goats at Pennyroyal are milked eight at a time by a machine. Each goat produces about a gallon of milk per day. Above right: Musette in the milking parlor. She yields 414 gallons of milk per year, which is well above average for the herd. Photos by Lauren Segal/Special To The Chronicle Top: Goats at Pennyroyal are milked eight at a time by a machine. Each goat produces about a gallon of milk per day. Bottom: Musette in the milking parlor. She yields 414 gallons of milk per year, which is well above average for the herd. Photos by Lauren Segal/Special To The Chronicle

McKenzie-Chapter adds cultures to the raw and pasteurized milks  kind of like adding your sourdough starter or yeast to bread, she said  causing them to curdle. Visitors can peer through the glass windows as she ladles curds into round molds, then turns and salts the wheels as they dry in cheesecloth on covered racks. Some, like Boont Corners, are bound for the musty aging room to mature from two months to a year.

McKenzie-Chapter learned to make cheese at a creamery in France after studying animal science at UC Davis, Shed grown up idolizing her uncle and great-grandparents, who had cows in Sonoma County. But at Davis, where she also met her Pennyroyal co-founder, viticulture student Sarah Cahn Bennett, McKenzie-Chapter was drawn to the schools teaching herd of goats for their personality.

I tell people theyre like dogs that make milk, she said.

The first dairy goats came to America with the Pilgrims at Plymouth Rock and Jamestown. But Musettes lineage, which is mostly American LaMancha, can be traced to the short-eared goats kept at mission settlements in Spanish California.

McKenzie-Chapter bought Musettes direct ancestors, her first 15 goats, for $75 a head from Redwood Hill Dairy, led by one of her inspirations, Jennifer Bice. Goats gained popularity during the back-to-the-land movement of the 1960s, when Bices parents founded their dairy in Sebastopol. But Bice credits the 80s and celebrity chefs like Alice Waters with taking goat products from health food to delicacy. The famous goat cheese salad at Chez Panisse even name-checked Sonoma dairy farmer Laura Chenel.

Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle Above left: Creamery staff member Veronica Hernandez agitates curds as part of the cheesemaking process. Above right: Curds hang in bags to drain the whey. Photos by Lauren Segal/Special To The Chronicle Above left: Creamery staff member Veronica Hernandez agitates curds as part of the cheesemaking process. Above right: Curds hang in bags to drain the whey. Photos by Lauren Segal/Special To The Chronicle

Thanks to pioneers like Bice, Northern California has a particularly strong dairy goat breeding community. Of the roughly 400,000 milking goats in the country today, 36,000 live in California.

That means the goat competition at the Mendocino County Fair and Apple Show might not be nationals, but its not far off, with national champions usually among the 150 contenders.

At Pennyroyal, you can tell the fair is coming to town when the Ferris wheel goes up just over the fence from the pasture where Musette and her herd graze. Boonvilles population, 997 at last census, swells to 20,000 for the occasion. Its a traditional fair, held since 1924, with a quilt show, a rodeo and bushels of apples, a once booming local industry thats mostly faded in favor of grape-growing. (The fairs emblem remains an anthropomorphic red apple in a cowboy hat riding a bronco.)

Late last September, with a week to go before the fair, McKenzie-Chapter took clippers to Musettes coat and gave her a bath. At age 4, she hadnt won a major competition since nationals in 2019  COVID had slowed down the show circuit  but Muse was a contender, McKenzie-Chapter hoped.

Musettes group showed in the mid-afternoon. McKenzie-Chapter, accompanied by her 4-year-old daughter, Eva, roughly Musettes height, led Muse around the ring by her collar. The judge, consulting a standardized scorecard of various criteria, admired her udder, held firmly by strong ligaments, and named her first place, then selected her as champion for her breed.

Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle Above left: Raw milk cheeses in an aging room. Above right: A wine and cheese pairing at Pennyroyal. Visitors attracted by cheese and the chance to meet playful goats typically buy wine, a higher revenue item that helps subsidize the small dairy and creamery. Photos by Lauren Segal/Special To The Chronicle Above left: Raw milk cheeses in an aging room. Above right: A wine and cheese pairing at Pennyroyal. Visitors attracted by cheese and the chance to meet playful goats typically buy wine, a higher revenue item that helps subsidize the small dairy and creamery. Photos by Lauren Segal/Special To The Chronicle

After that came best in show, when all the different doe champions square off. The judge wanted the goats milked out, so she could assess their udders empty as well as full. McKenzie-Chapter took Musette back to her pen and milked her by hand, whispering words of praise and encouragement.

At about 6 p.m., she and Eva led Musette back into the show ring. The other breed champions walked in circles, while the judge considered her ratings. Then she pronounced Musette the winner: Best Doe in Show.

McKenzie-Chapter cried. I always cry, she said.

Musette munched her purple ribbon, fraying the edges.

Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle Lauren Segal/Special to The Chronicle When Musette was awarded Best Doe in Show at the Mendocino County Fair and Apple Show, she was given this purple ribbon. Herd manager Erika McKenzie-Chapter keeps it in the barn. Photos by Lauren Segal/Special To The Chronicle When Musette was awarded Best Doe in Show at the Mendocino County Fair and Apple Show, she was given this purple ribbon. Herd manager Erika McKenzie-Chapter keeps it in the barn. Photos by Lauren Segal/Special To The Chronicle

Not all of the new kids will stay at Pennyroyal; that would quickly lead to a herd of thousands. McKenzie-Chapter will sell all the boys, typically raised for meat, and keep most of the girls, including Musettes new children, which shes just named Bluegrass and Bossa Nova.

Zydeco, Musettes mother, is still at Pennyroyal. At age 8, she no longer lactates, but spends her retirement in a grannie goat pen with a dozen others. LaManchas have a life expectancy of 7 to 10 years. If she stays healthy, this is where Musette will spend her dotage, too. Dill, her father, died two years ago, and McKenzie-Chapter was heartbroken.

The better you care for them, the longer they last, she said, but the longer you have them, the more you care.

Reach Caleb Pershan: caleb.pershan@sfchronicle.com
UPDATE: Second COVID bivalent booster shots set to roll out. Here's what you need to know

On Tuesday, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration authorized a second COVID-19 booster dose for older Americans and individuals with weakened immune systems to enhance their protection this spring.

Coronavirus map: How many COVID cases are in Bay Area and California

The move comes amid concerns over newer variants of the virus causing the number of COVID-19 cases and deaths to tick back up in the United States, particularly among vulnerable populations.

Individuals age 65 or older may opt for a second shot of the bivalent vaccine targeting the omicron strains of the coronavirus at least four months after their initial dose. For those who are immunocompromised, a second booster shot may be received at least two months later, with additional doses at the discretion of their physician.

The FDA also announced that the original versions of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are outdated and will no longer be used. Instead, individuals receiving these shots will be administered the newer omicron-targeted version. For those receiving their first-ever vaccine, a single combo dose will suffice.

Rogelio V. Solis/Associated Press 2022

According to Dr. Peter Marks, the FDA vaccine chief, At this stage of the pandemic, data support simplifying the use of Pfizer and Moderna vaccines. The agency believes this approach will help encourage future vaccination.

Although Britain and Canada have already recommended an additional spring booster for vulnerable populations, high-risk Americans who last received a dose in the fall have been eagerly anticipating another dose.

Booster doses continue to stave off severe disease and death, even as more contagious variants have emerged, while protection against mild infections is short-lived.

At least 250 people in the U.S. still die from COVID-19 each day, many of them older and at higher risk for the worst outcomes of the disease.

Yvonne Maldonado, an infectious disease expert at Stanford, said, If you look at whos dying or getting sick now, its people who are unvaccinated or unboosted.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention must approve the latest round of boosters, and its advisers are scheduled to meet on Wednesday.

The Pfizer and Moderna boosters contain protection against both the original coronavirus strain and omicron variants known as BA.4 and BA.5. Recent studies show that the bivalent shots are still effective, even as newer omicron cousins circulate.

The FDAs simplification also means changes for unvaccinated children. Children under 5 may receive two doses of the bivalent Moderna vaccine or three doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech bivalent vaccine.

People 5 and older may get a single bivalent Pfizer shot or two Moderna doses. Children already fully or partially vaccinated with the original Pfizer or Moderna shots may get a bivalent vaccine, but the number of doses will depend on their vaccination history, the FDA said.

While over 95% of the U.S. population aged 65 and older received at least one vaccine dose, only 42.1% of those eligible have received the latest boosters, which were authorized in August, according to the CDC.

The offering of a second bivalent booster will not interfere with the Biden administrations previously stated plan of moving the nation toward an annual COVID vaccine similar to the flu shot.

But for eligible high-risk groups, a second booster in the spring is a reasonable choice, said Dr. Matthew Laurens of the University of Maryland School of Medicine.

We do have vaccines that are available to protect against these severe consequences, so why not use them? he said. They dont do any good just sitting on a shelf. So lets give them to individuals who are at the highest risk and who can benefit the most.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Almost a year ago, Sen. Dianne Feinstein met with The Chronicle Editorial Board to discuss reports that a decline in her mental fitness had rendered her unfit to remain in office. A Chronicle investigation had just revealed that a growing number of Feinsteins colleagues felt her memory had deteriorated to the point where she was no longer capable of performing her job, which the San Francisco Democrat fiercely disputed.

I meet regularly with leaders. Im not isolated. I see people. My attendance is good, Feinstein said.

Recently, however, that hasnt been the case.

Feinstein, 89, has been absent from the Senate for nearly two months due to complications from shingles, and there isnt a clear timeframe for her return.

The Senate took several long recesses in January, February and earlier this month, and this week will mark Feinsteins fifth week absent from voting. So far she has missed 60 of 82 votes  including 26 for judicial nominees. Her prolonged absence from the Senate Judiciary Committee has hampered Democrats from confirming some of President Bidens federal judge appointees, frustrating party members who point to the judiciarys sizable influence on the nations intensifying culture wars. A federal judge appointed by former President Donald Trump, for example, recently reversed the U.S. Food and Drug Administrations two-decade-old approval of the abortion pill mifepristone (though the U.S. Supreme Court temporarily halted the ruling until it weighs in, likely on Wednesday).

Under mounting pressure  including from Democratic Reps. Ro Khanna of San Jose and Dean Phillips of Minnesota, who have publicly called on her to resign  Feinstein asked Senate Democratic leadership to temporarily replace her on the Judiciary Committee. To do that, though, theyll need Republican support  which is far from certain in a divided Congress.

Its the latest sign that Feinstein, who recently announced that she will not seek re-election in 2024, does not intend to prematurely give up her seat.

In many ways, Feinsteins determination and steeliness are admirable. Its those qualities, after all, that have defined her career and made her a political icon. Her toughness helped her break through rampant misogyny to become the first female mayor of San Francisco in 1978 and to fight off repeated challenges from the left  including in 2018 when the California Democratic Party endorsed her challenger, the more progressive (and since disgraced) Kevin de Leon. Californians stuck with Feinstein, electing her with more than 54% of the vote. Last year, she became the longest-serving female senator in U.S. history.

But has Feinsteins steeliness begun to morph into stubbornness, to the detriment of herself and the disenfranchisement of her constituents?

Feinstein was diagnosed with shingles  a virus that attacks the nerves, often resulting in debilitating pain  on Feb. 24 and hospitalized two days later. About 80% of patients see their pain resolve in less than a month, while 20% still experience it a month later  a likelihood that increases with age, according to Peter Chin-Hong, a UCSF infectious disease specialist. If nerve pain persists for three months, Chin-Hong added, patients are diagnosed with postherpetic neuralgia, and their pain is unlikely to go away or get better. More than 50% of patients with this condition are over the age of 60, Chin-Hong said.

The best scenario: Her pain goes away within three months, and thats it, Chin-Hong told me. If the pain continues and she has postherpetic neuralgia  it probably never feels great, but it can range from moderately interfering to work to severely interfering with work.

In other words, shingles may be interfering with Feinsteins work now, but that doesnt mean it always will  or will to the same extent.

The real conversation, Feinstein said last year in her interview with the Chronicle Editorial Board, is whether Im an effective representative for 40 million people.

Despite Democrats understandable impatience, that question cant be definitively answered until Feinsteins diagnosis hits at least the three-month mark.

But even if Feinstein bounces back from shingles, questions about her mental fitness are unlikely to disappear. Indeed, it seems that her illness served as cover for some Democrats to say publicly what up until now had only been voiced privately: that Feinstein is no longer capable of fulfilling the duties of her office.

Feinsteins office declined an interview request. Unfortunately, she is only meeting with her family, staff and medical team while she recovers, spokesperson Adam Russell said. He added that Feinstein is still leading her office while working remotely from San Francisco  though, given the typically debilitating pain Chin-Hong described, its difficult to imagine shes doing so at full capacity.

Clearly, Feinstein is not currently meeting her own criteria for what constitutes an effective representative  gathering regularly with people and leaders, having a good attendance record, not being isolated.

But that could change in the next month or so. Patience is hard to come by in politics, but thats what this situation calls for. Feinstein deserves the opportunity to make a full recovery before being jostled out of office.

However, if Feinstein is unable to fully recover and cannot capably complete her term, she and her office should be transparent with the public  and for the benefit of her health and her constituents, she should close out her storied career by gracefully stepping aside and entering the retirement she so richly deserves.

But until her condition becomes clearer, its inappropriate to demand she steps down  especially when other Democrats, including Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, have taken long absences to handle health needs.

Recovery alone is not a reason for resignation. But Democrats werent referring only to Feinsteins shingles recovery when they called on her to step down. They were also alluding to her age and her mental acuity.

That, however, is a different conversation. And if Democrats want to have it, they should come right out and say it.
Regarding S.F. releases $607 million plan to reduce number of people sleeping on streets by half (San Francisco, SFChronicle.com, April 14): San Francisco is proposing to spend more than $600 million to slightly reduce the number of homeless people in the city by 15%. For this amount of money, all 8,000 homeless residents could be taken care of with dignity if the city were to build small villages of tiny cabins.

These small homes provide privacy and security (with individually locked doors) and shelter and warmth, with central services to be provided for the cluster of homes in each village. Because the homes cost about $30,000 to build, money would be available for the central services that many homeless residents need.

This arrangement would foster long-term engagement between the individual providers and those in need of services for nutrition, health care, substance abuse and job preparation. Such a program would remove the need for anyone to sleep on the streets or in the parks.

The past decades approaches to homelessness have clearly failed. They work only to sustain governmental and nonprofit bureaucracies that have not been up to the task of providing dignified accommodation to the vast majority of those in need. Lets respect the homeless and provide care for all.

Michael Stryker, Kentfield

Obstacle to progress

Regarding S.F. releases $607 million plan to reduce number of people sleeping on streets by half (San Francisco, SFChronicle.com, April 14): The Coalition on Homelessness and other do-gooder housing first groups, which consistently oppose compulsory mental health treatment, are the source of San Franciscos problem. We could spend $100 trillion on homelessness and make zero progress if we listen to them.

Eric Roddie, San Francisco

Build taller buildings

Regarding Heres what a 55-story condo skyscraper proposed near S.F. Zoo would look like (Real Estate, SFChronicle.com, April 14): The daring proposal to build a 55-story condo tower near Ocean Beach and the San Francisco Zoo should invite more than the usual knee jerk reaction against development.

The area was nothing more than sand dunes up until the early 1900s, when tract homes were built. Higher density development should have gone in at that time, but that was before the great boom in the Bay Area population.

And how outlandish is it really to build super-tall buildings like this on a coastal beach? Dont we see developments of this scale everywhere in the world? Think of Miami Beach, Long Beach, Hong Kong, Singapore, and the list goes on and on.

But not in the bizarro world of San Francisco where everything has to be just the opposite of the common sense used everywhere else.

Most of the city is made up of squatty apartment buildings of only two or three floors, thanks again, to our collective opposition to building taller like in comparable cities everywhere else.

Now the city is in dire need of housing due to this opposition to development.

Nick Yale, Oakland

Making progress

Having grown up in the 1950s and 1960s, I felt that The Chronicles Front Page photo on April 14 was a remarkable illustration of how times have changed for the better.

The photo of three city leaders  Mayor London Breed, District Attorney Brooke Jenkins and Police Chief Bill Scott  holding a press conference, shows two women and three Black people. When I was a child, a photo of the city leadership would have been of three white men.

Although our society has not yet achieved the level of inclusion that we may desire, I think we should feel proud that we have come as far as we have, and we should be grateful to the many people who have worked so hard to bring this about.

Ken Stanton, El Cerrito
I was 12 years old the first time my mother was arrested for selling drugs. It wasnt at an open-air market and it wasnt fentanyl. A sting operation ended with my mom being taken into custody for selling marijuana.

She was in jail for a bit until she made bail, but most of her sentence was served under house arrest. This was not the blessing it might seem. Her

felony conviction derailed her ability to get a job using the accounting degree she returned to school for, and it didnt change her drug habits.

Instead, locked in her home, without the ability to work as an accountant, she developed a pill addiction and later moved on to intravenous drugs. She died from an opioid overdose in 2011.



Her involvement with the criminal justice system didnt just strip her ability to climb out of poverty. It failed to provide her with meaningful rehabilitation and had devastating and long-lasting impacts on her children.

Five years after our moms death, my sister would tell a friend, Im ready to try what my mom chose over me.

This decision altered her life forever. She experienced addiction, homelessness and severe struggles with mental health. She was eventually incarcerated and was offered the option of rehabilitation and intensive in-patient drug and alcohol treatment as an alternative to more jail time. She successfully completed the program, moved into a subsidized halfway house and is now thriving.

This public investment in harm reduction saved her life. And it made me more aware of how progressive justice policies can turn peoples lives around.



As a child of an addict, I learned early on that the police were not there to help my family. The undercover police officer who befriended my mom as a means to arrest her also seized her student loan dispersal, taking away our livelihood for an entire semester. During her entire time navigating the criminal justice system, my mom was never once offered in-patient treatment, counseling, opioid addiction medication like Suboxone or any other life-saving measures. She was a checkmark on a piece of paper. So long as she answered the phone and peed in a cup at the regimented hours, her problems were mine and my sisters to deal with.

What would have saved my mom? Perhaps nothing. But public funding for treatments like Suboxone and intensive in-patient treatment saved my sisters life.

San Francisco is making national headlines over its problems with drugs, crime and homelessness. The Whole Foods at Mid-Market is at ground-zero for these issues, and the company announced it was closing the store after just one year, over what said were concerns for team members safety.

Some blame progressive policies for San Franciscos crime and drug crisis. But, truthfully, we havent meaningfully tried progressive policies. If we did, we would have more robust funding for intensive in-patient drug treatment, social services and enough water, sanitation and emergency housing to meet United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees guidelines for sanitation standards in refugee camps.

I have lived in this city for 14 years, and every time I walk through Civic Center and see the flagrant drug use and misery, Im depressed, saddened and angry. I know from personal experience that shame and incarceration do not work. But I also know that doing nothing is just as bad. Were clearly seeing the repercussions of a city with too few police trying to handle an opioid crisis, homelessness, increased crime and empty downtown offices.

San Franciscos Police Department has had problems, but the defund movement that resonated with many city residents was never just about shrinking the number of officers. It was about moving funds into mental health and drug treatment, and other social services. San Francisco has yet to meaningfully do this. Absent those investments, the decrease in our police force has been accompanied by increased crime and theft  with overworked officers in the middle who have become dehumanized. We are left with the worst of all worlds.

The police are not equipped to deliver life-saving harm-reduction services. But we also shouldnt use them to arrest people just to get them off the streets.

While struggling with drug use and homelessness, my sister was arrested for throwing her trash into a private dumpster. She tried to clean up her trash, rather than litter public roads, but she was still criminalized for being poor.

Do I like the smell of urine and feces as I walk to the bus stop each day? No.

Do I like stepping over trash thats piled up on the sidewalks? No.

But criminalizing poverty isnt the solution.

What police can do is triage emergencies related to drugs, housing insecurity and mental health crisis so that those trained in harm reduction and mental health counseling can intervene. My sister was arrested but was later given the option to receive treatment that saved her life.

The progressive agenda is clear: Fund maintenance drugs and in-patient treatment, create funding streams for social services and provide access to clean water, sanitation and trash disposal for all our residents. We cant blame these policies for the crisis we are experiencing because we havent tried them. And now we are all out of excuses.
J. Scott Applewhite/Associated Press

Sen. Dianne Feinstein has been absent from the Capitol for two months with a painful case of shingles. Doctors say it can take up to three months to recover from serious cases, but Feinstein has been missing key Judiciary Committee votes on President Bidens nominees to the federal bench, leaving them deadlocked.

The 89-year-old Feinstein has also been accused by some colleagues of no longer being mentally up to the job.
Sen. Dianne Feinsteins extended absence from the Senate could imperil the confirmation of fellow Californian Julie Su to become the next labor secretary.

Su, who previously served as Californias top labor official, looks to be facing a tough vote in the Senate. She was confirmed as deputy secretary of labor in 2021 on a party-line vote, with 50 Democrats voting in favor and 47 Republicans opposing. Now, with Feinstein unable to attend votes after contracting the painful but non-life-threatening shingles virus, the vote could tie or even fail if multiple Democrats defect.

The three senators who could determine Sus fate are Sens. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., Jon Tester, D-Mont., and Kyrsten Sinema, I-Ariz. All three are up for re-election in 2024, and face tough races that could determine the majority in the Senate.

Manchin has expressed deep reservations to the White House about Su, Axios reported last week. Tester told Punchbowl News Tuesday he is ambivalent and plans to decide after Sus Thursday confirmation hearing. Sinema has a policy of not discussing her votes before taking them. Sinema changed her party affiliation from Democrat to independent in December 2022. She still often votes with Democrats and has kept her committee positions, but has a more precarious connection with them.

Feinsteins absence is hugely felt in a Senate that is so evenly divided. Democrats have a very tenuous 51-49 majority, said Jessica Taylor, Senate and governors editor for the nonpartisan Cook Political Report. All three senators who are up for re-election this cycle are more worried about their own re-election prospects than confirming someone who is a Biden appointee, Taylor said.

If one of those senators  or any other Democrat  opposes Su, the confirmation would hinge on Feinsteins presence. If she is not there, Su would lose by one vote. If she is there, the vote would be tied, and Vice President Kamala Harris could vote to confirm Su. No Republicans are expected to vote to confirm Su.

If more than one of those senators votes against Su, the confirmation would fail with or without Feinsteins presence.

If Feinsteins absence imperils Sus confirmation, California Labor Federation leader Lorena Gonzalez Fletcher said, that would be devastating.

Feinsteins office declined to comment.

Taylor said however this vote goes, the issue of Feinsteins absence has a larger impact on the way her career is remembered. Is it that her absence imperiled these really key positions that a Democratic administration wants to fill?

Su was California labor secretary from 2019 to 2021 and is getting hammered by Republicans for her experiences in that role  particularly for her support for AB5, the state law that limits when employers can classify workers as independent contractors, and the multibillion-dollar scandal that engulfed Californias Employment Development Department, in which the state improperly paid jobless benefits to fraudsters.

Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., said in a statement that Su has a troubling record and is currently overseeing the Department of Labors development of anti-worker regulations that will dismantle the gig economy. This does not inspire confidence in her ability to hold her current position, let alone be promoted. Cassidy is the top Republican on the committee that Su will appear before.

Su has yet to meet with Republicans on the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions committee, according to Bloomberg Law. A White House official said she has met with both Republican and Democratic senators and has offered to meet every member of the committee.

Those issues could be what sways the three key senators, although they previously supported her 2021 confirmation as deputy labor secretary. Su is acting U.S. labor secretary after the departure of Marty Walsh from the agency in March.

Im not sure why they would change a vote at this point after confirming her once. And given that anything people bring up from the past existed before, Gonzalez Fletcher said. If you look at her record and how well she has implemented Marty Walshs vision, Joe Bidens vision, I cant imagine that they wouldnt vote for her again.
Youve got to see the sabering is not a sentiment expressed in most offices around quitting time, when the slow-motion dance of laptops closing while inching toward the elevators is the main thing on many employees minds.

But, at the end of the day in Expensifys newly remodeled San Francisco offices, a bartender, which they call a concierge, is using a large saber to pop the top off a bottle of champagne. Once released, the bottles contents are frothing onto the pretty blue carpet below while employees gather to clap and cheer.

Why the office of an expense tech company has a bartender is easily answered. At the center of the companys newly remodeled, 16th floor downtown space is a sleek bar, decked out with high-end booze and a specialty cocktail list where employees can type on their laptops, sip a Moscow mule or a draft beer and still get work done.

Juliana Yamada/The Chronicle

The cocktail list includes standard fare like martinis and Negronis along with the most popular libations; as well as CEO David Barretts favorite: the old-fashioned, complete with a branded E ice cube.

Its kind of an experiment, said Expensifys head of public relations James Dean. Its more like a social club mixed with a space where you can be super productive.

The original plan to build out the cocktail-centered space skidded to a halt when the pandemic emptied out the office as it shifted to a remote-first working model.

Juliana Yamada/The Chronicle

Other companies have remodeled their San Francisco office spaces after pandemic-enforced delays by adding tech perk staples like video game rooms and foosball tables (and a bar too). But, increasingly, many are including restaurant-style booths and more common spaces to quench employees thirst for the casual workplace socializing ripped away by the persistence of remote work.

The Expensify space, which the company calls a lounge, doesnt have designated offices, but includes many meeting rooms dotting the perimeter where employees can slip away to make calls or do heads-down work. There are meeting rooms with cheerfully colored couches and fluffy pillows that look out to the downtown streets below. Tropical plants, photos of exotic locales and brassy inlays are spread throughout, as well as the obligatory dog splayed on the floor in a sunbeam.

Juliana Yamada/The Chronicle

But the long table just behind the bar is where most employees choose to work, chatting and typing away on laptops before being interrupted by the afternoons sabering.

That roundtable style of work has been a hallmark of the company since it first moved into the building in 2015, before Expensify relocated its headquarters to Portland, Ore. Off in a side room is a much smaller table where employees used to crowd around while working, when they had only a fraction of the 16th floor.

With so many bars and restaurants having closed since the pandemic began, the company snagged a liquor license for around a quarter-million dollars  much less than the $500,000 range they went for before the pandemic, driven down due to the closures  said lounge operations lead Niki Wallroth.

The lounge has been available to Expensify employees and for a range of events, but will officially open to clients and their guests on April 24.

Juliana Yamada/The Chronicle

The original idea was not just to give employees a place to drink for free, but also to create a perk for Expensify cardholders and clients.

That is still the case. But how the space will be used is largely up to the people who have access to it.

I had my wedding reception here, said Expensify employee Nick Tooker, sitting at the bar, laptop open, while nursing a Moscow mule on a recent Thursday afternoon as the sun backlit the mahogany and crystal tones of the inviting bottles in front of him.

He said he sent out a note to the San Francisco office asking if it was OK if he took over the space for an afternoon after getting hitched at City Hall, two train stops away. People were like, Absolutely!  Tooker said, noting that he got the idea after another employee had an engagement party there.

Juliana Yamada/The Chronicle

The company has five offices, including its Portland headquarters, as well as locations in London, New York, and Ironwood, Mich. But with the company sticking to its remote-first plans when many others are enforcing back-to-office mandates, the purpose of those offices has changed significantly.

Despite investing heavily in office renovations  the Portland headquarters is located in an old bank building complete with soaring columns and a vault  Expensify isnt urging employees to fill desks. Now those offices are more geared toward the social aspects of work that just cant happen while workers are holed up at home.

Its great when youre sick of home, Tooker said. I come in maybe three days a week, and I get my fix.

The companys offices now can essentially act as a network of social clubs.

Juliana Yamada/The Chronicle

For instance, Dean, the PR head, happens to be an Ironwood native, and is planning a gathering of employees in that office in August. Im going to go home, but also be working, he said, with about 30 people from the company signed up to spend some time in the small town on Michigans Upper Peninsula.

The desire to reclaim the social aspects of work washed away by the pandemic and remote work are even causing new businesses to crop up. Co-working spaces that double as intentional social clubs have sprouted in San Francisco and the Bay Area, attracting members in search of being around people in a casual, working atmosphere undergirded by an afternoon cocktail or glass of wine.

Expensifys office is a take on the theme. But even with the addition of free cocktails and the implicitly social atmosphere, the lounge is still as much a place for silent, sustained work as it is a venue just to hang out.

Juliana Yamada/The Chronicle

That was evident before the champagne popped on that recent Thursday. With only about three employees stationed at the bar, hunched over laptops and cocktails, most were working quietly away at the large, central table.

Music tinkled in the background as the afternoon light filtered through the large picture windows, creating a gauzy glow on the leaves of the copious greenery throughout.

There was plenty of space elsewhere for an employee to claim a private room, but almost all were clustered at one end of the table, close enough to reach out while they worked.
The campaign for the San Francisco Board of Supervisors seat representing the Mission District is already heating up, more than 18 months before the election that could be pivotal to shaping the political balance of the citys powerful legislative body.

Trevor Chandler, a little-known Mission resident with a background in political organizing and the technology industry, kicked off the race Tuesday when he publicly declared that he was seeking the District Nine job held by progressive Supervisor Hillary Ronen, who cannot run for re-election due to term restrictions.

But Chandler wont be the only candidate. His announcement prompted three other people  community organizer Roberto Hernandez, Ronen aide Santiago Lerma and progressive former state Senate candidate Jackie Fielder  to confirm to The Chronicle that they will also run for the District Nine seat when its on the ballot in November 2024. Ronen said she is supporting Lerma and Fielder.

The race is ramping up as parts of District Nine  which includes the Mission, Bernal Heights and the Portola  grapple with public drug dealing and drug use, stolen-goods sales on the streets, homeless encampments and public safety concerns.

Courtesy Trevor Chandler

The race is among a handful that could decide whether the progressive-majority board, which sometimes spars with Mayor London Breed, tilts more moderate. At least three open supervisor races are on the ballot next fall, since Supervisors Aaron Peskin and Ahsha Safai are also prevented by term limits from running again in Districts Three and Eleven, respectively. All supervisor races could be competitive as San Franciscos political moderates try to replicate the success they saw in 2022, when Joel Engardio and Matt Dorsey triumphed in Districts Four and Six, respectively  with the former ousting a progressive incumbent. One of the citys leading moderate groups has already set its sights on defeating two more progressive incumbents, Dean Preston and Connie Chan, in 2024.

Chandler declared his campaign for the District Nine supervisor seat in a video posted to Twitter Tuesday morning. He is a former government affairs director for the Citizen public safety app who is also an appointee of Gov. Gavin Newsom to the California State Board of Pharmacy and an appointee of Breed to the Eastern Neighborhoods Citizens Advisory Committee.

He previously worked for several years as a progressive community outreach director for the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, or AIPAC. He also spent about six years organizing around marriage equality issues for the Human Rights Campaign.

Chandler said he decided to announce early to get a head start on building up his name recognition. He said hes lived in the Mission for about two years but lived in other San Francisco neighborhoods for several years before that.

Ive been talking to neighbors who have lived here their whole lives, saying theyve never seen it this bad, and they were being told by their officials, their elected leaders, that it wasnt as bad as they thought it was, Chandler said. I wanted to address that disconnect.

Chandler, 36, described himself to The Chronicle as a common-sense progressive who just wants to get results.

But Chandler also made clear that, if elected, he would take a more moderate approach than Ronen, one of the most prominent progressive voices in San Francisco politics. Chandlers website touted his support for last years school board recall and he told The Chronicle he also supported the recall of former District Attorney Chesa Boudin. Ronen supported the school board recall of two of three board members, but opposed removing Boudin from office.

Chandler wants San Francisco to hire more police officers, but he said he would want to pair any increased funding for the police budget with equivalent increases in funding to mental health services. He said the city needs to focus on ending its public drug markets by prosecuting dealers but also providing resources to get drug users into treatment. Chandler, who said hes been in recovery from alcoholism for seven years, added that he supports supervised drug consumption sites in non-residential areas.

Fielder, who challenged more moderate state Sen. Scott Wiener for his re-election in 2020 and received 43% of the vote, said in a five-minute interview Tuesday that her policies resonated with District Nine in that race.

Gabrielle Lurie/The Chronicle 2020

Its time for Latinas, Native Americans and queer people of color to have representation on the Board of Supervisors, she said, describing her background.

She said she would focus on economic recovery, creating a public bank, affordable housing and housing for homeless people, investments in proven mental health solutions and support for educators and students. When asked her views on public safety and policing, she said she wanted to promote community-led solutions and new ideas instead of traditional policing, which she said has failed all of us for years, if not decades. To address drug dealing in the Mission, she didnt want to see the usual whack-a-mole solutions, but instead come up with long-term solutions with local residents.

Lerma, a legislative aide to Ronen, said Tuesday that he wanted to throw his hat in the ring because of his experience in city government and his progressive bona fides, adding that he wanted to continue the tradition of fighting for immigrants, workers and housing and against poverty-causing street conditions.

I feel confident in what Ive learned about the city and how its governed and I would make a good supervisor and a good leader for District Nine to continue the tradition of progressive leadership in protecting the most vulnerable and fighting against poverty, he said.

Courtesy Cecelia Platt

Lerma said he aligned with progressives on prioritizing affordable housing, saying that solely building market-rate housing would not fix the citys crisis. As supervisor, he would push for creative ways to finance affordable projects.

To address homelessness, Lerma said, he would advocate for more and different kinds of shelter and housing and specialized case managers and treatment for those also struggling with mental illness and addiction. When asked his views on making conservatorship laws on forced treatment less restrictive, he first said he wanted to focus on getting ample and accessible treatment beds.

Lerma has also been focused on addressing deteriorating street conditions in the Mission and advocating for more officer foot beats in the evening near BART stations.



He supports increased pay and bonuses to recruit and retain police officers and believes a police presence is important to deter drug dealing, although he did not believe greater arrests and prosecutions of street-level dealers would be effective to solve the problem. Instead, he said it was important to go after higher-level dealers.

Lerma did not support the recalls of Boudin or three school board members last year. He said he has lived in the Mission for around 15 years.

Ronen said that Lerma is the person in the streets every day working with police and homeless outreach workers to address street conditions.

I dont know anyone more qualified than him to address the main problems in the district that residents care about, she said.

Lea Suzuki/The Chronicle 2022

Community organizer Hernandez confirmed he is also running. Born and raised in the district, he is the CEO of nonprofit CANA and organized a Carnaval celebration before the pandemic. When COVID hit, he became a leader in the Latino Task Force that addressed health and economic impacts and started the Mission Food Hub that served 9,000 people a week.



Hernandez said hes running because the pandemic wreaked havoc on the district, leading to financial stress, unemployment, shuttered storefronts, a deepening housing crisis, public drug dealing and use, and assaults and robberies.

We are in a serious crisis and people dont feel safe, he said. Were not getting the resources we need.

If elected as supervisor, he said he would work on implementing a community recovery plan that includes more quickly filling city worker vacancies and training residents as bus drivers or nurses.

Hernandez said he wanted to see more foot patrols, community ambassadors and coordination between agencies to respond to crime and street conditions, including the drug crisis. He said we cant let people just lay on the street and die, but said he didnt have time to get into the issue of whether he would like to change state laws about forced treatment in a brief interview Tuesday.

Hernandez said he wants to see the criminal justice system go after high-level drug dealers. When asked if he would support arrests or prosecution for street level dealers, Hernandez told the story of a young man who was selling drugs to support his mother and siblings after his father died and how he helped him get a job.

Hernandez did not immediately respond to a follow-up question about his positions on last years recalls.
EgyptAir announced on Tuesday suspending all its flights to and from Khartoum International Airport indefinitely in light of the current unstable security situation in Sudan.

In a statement, EgyptAir called on its customers who booked flights to and from Khartoum International Airport to contact its call centre for more information.

Customers can call the Hotline 1717 - for calls within Egypt; 090070000 - for calls from landlines in Egypt); and +97142306666 or +966122297777 - for calls from outside Egypt.

Customers can also visit the airline's website or the nearest EgyptAir sales office or travel agent for more information.

The statement noted that EgyptAir will keep customers up-to-date with the latest developments.

Khartoum International Airport has been closed to all air traffic since Saturday morning.

EgyptAir had suspended all of its flights to and from Khartoum airport for 72 hours starting Saturday afternoon - shortly after the outbreak of violence in Khartoum.

On Tuesday, fighting raged in the Sudanese capital and elsewhere in the country between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) for a fourth straight day.

Earlier today, a senior military commander in the Sudanese army told Al-Arabiya that the RSF carried out acts of sabotage at Khartoum airport and disrupted air traffic.

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Sirens pierced the chilly predawn air, breaking 30 seconds of silence meant to commemorate the great tragedy that happened exactly 117 years before: the 1906 earthquake and great conflagration that burned for three days after.

Well, not quite exactly. Emcee Bob Sarlatte, in his determination to rush through a slew of remarks from public officials, had gotten ahead of the 5:12 a.m. anniversary by a few minutes.

We are kind of stalling here, but not too bad. Were never ahead of schedule, but we seem to be a little bit, Sarlatte acknowledged cheerily before the moment of silence began.

The sirens are supposed to sound at 5:12 a.m., the time when the San Andreas Fault slipped in 1906 and let loose a massive magnitude 7.9 earthquake that devastated San Francisco.

But because Sarlatte had gotten through the program with minutes to spare, what filled the corner of Third, Geary and Kearny streets during that minute was not the sound of sirens, a sound of calamity, but the sound of singing  a sound of celebration, of resilience and of community.

Sarlatte offered longtime organizer of the event Donna Lillie Coit Huggins a page of lyrics to San Francisco but was promptly rebuffed because after 49 years of attending, Huggins knew all the words by heart.

I dont need that! Are you kidding? Huggins remarked with a string of laughs.

Lea Suzuki/The Chronicle

A crowd of around 70 San Franciscans joined along, their voices ringing above Lottas Fountain, where survivors of the 1906 earthquake met to search for loved ones, hope and comfort that fateful day.

Atop the fountain was a wreath in remembrance of those who died in the 1906 quake, of those who lived to rebuild the city and of Eleanor Johns, a longtime aide to former Mayor Willie Brown who died earlier this month.

In 1908, survivors held the first gathering at Lottas Fountain to celebrate the rebuilding of the city and meet old friends and fellow survivors. Now, early risers still show up every year at the anniversary of the minute-long quake and three-day fire to remember lives lost, honor first responders and celebrate the spirit of a city that survived The Big One and continues to persist.

Many were dressed to the nines in authentic 1906 garb in classic San Franciscan flamboyance. Among them was Mayor London Breed, donning a black and emerald green dress with a bright green feather in her black cap.

Breed compared the resilience of San Francisco after the 1906 earthquake to the citys resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic. She also countered outside attacks on the citys reputation, which has been clouded by public angst over a slow downtown recovery and crises of homelessness, drug use and mental illness.

Its important that we celebrate to remind us what happened in the past so that we can not only begin to prepare for the future, but we can also remember what we are as San Franciscans. Not what other people define us as, but who we know we are. Thats why we come here every single morning, Breed said.

Brown, wearing a bright red coat with a hat to match, said the anniversary is always special, no matter how many times hes attended the event.

It really gives you a complete understanding and appreciation of how magnificent this city really became as a result of that fire in the effort to rebuild it at all times, year in and year out. We are continuously proud of the city, and were continuously always renewing our commitment to the city, Brown said.

A new plaque commemorating the 1906 earthquake will soon be on the side of a building near Lottas Fountain, announced John Jamieson, owner of engraving business American Western Awards. The plaque will be 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide with photos of the devastation and of newspapers that were printed in the aftermath and is expected to be ready in the next couple of months, Jamieson said.

Weve been working for the last six years or so, the San Francisco History Association, to put up a memorial to the 1906 earthquake and fire because where is one officially? There isnt! So we decided to do something about it, said Joseph Amster, owner of Emperor Nortons Fantastic San Francisco Time Machine, dressed, as usual, as Emperor Norton.

Lea Suzuki/The Chronicle

After the singing of San Francisco, many of those gathered trekked to the corner of Church and 20th streets for the annual painting of the stalwart fire hydrant that provided first responders much-needed water in 1906. Another wreath was laid here in memory of San Francisco History Association member Ben Valdez, who died in October.

Until recent years, survivors of the 1906 earthquake would show up for the commemoration. Though there are no more quake survivors, many descendants of those who had lived to pass down their tales  and a few relative newcomers to the city  gave the honored hydrant their own layer of gold paint.

I recently learned that my great-great-grandfather Jeremiah Mahoney was one of the neighbors who helped push the fire cart up here, San Francisco resident Joan Scott said before pressing down on the can of spray paint.

As San Franciscans native and adopted took their turn painting the hydrant and sharing what the city meant to them, the sun rose above nearby Dolores Park, shining light on one of the most splendid views of the glittering city by the bay.
San Francisco is famous for its political feuds, and the most engrossing beef at the moment involves District 5 Supervisor Dean Preston, the boards lone democratic socialist, and GrowSF, a new-to-the-scene political group that champions moderate Democrats such as Supervisors Matt Dorsey and Joel Engardio and District Attorney Brooke Jenkins.

GrowSF describes itself as nonpartisan group that prioritizes outcomes over ideologies and supports a city government that is efficiently managed, responsive to quality of life issues, and above all follows common sense. But Preston would use a different label to describe the group founded by Sachin Agarwal, previously of Apple, Twitter and Lyft, and Steven Buss, previously of Amazon and Google.

I think a lot of people identify as Democrats in San Francisco because theres no real path to victory as identifying as Republicans, Preston told SFGATE. I have no doubt that Mr. Buss and the other folks in GrowSF, were they somewhere else, would probably proudly be wearing their Republican hats.

Buss would disagree.

Dean subscribes to an ideology that allows no room for nuance, he said. If you dont agree with his particular extreme, he will immediately react by going to the other extreme, calling you names and making things up. Hes like a middle school boy who just discovered communism and thinks thats the solution to all the worlds problems. And if you disagree with him, hes a bully.

The feud has been simmering for quite some time, but it exploded into public view a little over a week ago, when Jason Calacanis, a prominent tech investor, tweeted, Who out there is willing to run against @DeanPreston? We will give you unlimited support to create a safer San Francisco & remove this incompetent fool. @GrowSF go!

That tweet garnered a reply from Twitter CEO Elon Musk, which was quickly noticed by Preston. Buss, who traded Twitter barbs with Preston again Tuesday morning, told SFGATE that his group is in the early stages of identifying a District 5 candidate to throw its weight behind in 2024. The citys campaign finance database shows GrowSF spent $67,428 on independent expenditures backing Engardio, and another $14,644 on independent expenditures backing Dorsey in the November 2022 election. Still, that spending was dwarfed by the candidates own committees, as well as independent expenditures from the San Francisco Labor Council, which backed Engardio and Dorseys opponents.

Buss said GrowSF is primarily opposed to Prestons approach to public safety. Preston, whose district includes the Tenderloin, has been skeptical of plans to increase funding and staffing of the San Francisco Police Department. In 2021, he was the only dissenting board vote on a budget that increased police funding, and the only sitting supervisor to endorse progressive district attorney candidate John Hamasaki in his bid to unseat Jenkins, a GrowSF favorite who helped recall her predecessor, Chesa Boudin.

Dean is such an outlier, and thats why hes the focus of so much attention from San Franciscans writ large, Buss said. Hes not able to negotiate because hes an ideologue. Ideologues prevent things from happening because youre either with them or against them. I would like to elect someone who is sensible, rational and clear-headed. Someone who says, You may not agree with me on everything, lets work together on what we do agree on.

There are three specific policy areas Buss says Preston refuses to touch: 1) having a plan to combat open-air drug dealing, 2) making it easier to treat people with drug addiction or mental health issues, including against their will if need be, and 3) providing more shelters and wraparound services to people on the streets.

When SFGATE asked Preston to respond to those complaints, he said he wasnt interested in a back-and-forth with Buss. He did note that he has worked with Dorsey on safe consumption sites, which he said is evidence he can work with more moderate members of the board.

I understand that Steven Buss and GrowSF envision the solution to everything is increased police and mass incarceration, he said. I can work with people who have a different view. Its a caricature of me that GrowSF and some of their folks focused on politics want to create, but its not accurate.

Again, Buss disagrees.

Its weird that Dean constantly tries to misrepresent what we say, he said. We understand drug addicts are victims, and no one here is calling to put them in jail. The fact that Dean would say such things is par for the course. Hes a liar. (Buss said he supports conservatorship, which is not incarceration, but is still controversial among civil rights groups.)

Preston would say its GrowSF thats disingenuous.

I dont believe for a second [public safety is] whats motivating Steven Buss and GrowSF. Maybe thats what polls best for them, he said. The idea that GrowSF and its leaders care about people suffering in the Tenderloin is so far from the truth. Its a political project to attack progressives and install conservative leaders.

Preston said he believes the back and forth on public safety is merely a distraction from what he feels GrowSF is really trying to accomplish: ejecting the boards only socialist, who poses a threat to pocketbooks of wealthy tech executives. Specifically, the supervisor pointed to his work on Proposition I, a 2020 ballot measure that raised taxes on real estate sales over $10 million, as well as his push to create a public bank in the city. He said its telling that Musk, who doesnt usually involve himself in San Francisco politics, has taken a keen interest in this particular supervisor race.

Preston added that he found it suspicious that Musk and Calacanis decided to plug GrowSF the week several San Francisco public safety incidents made national news, including the fatal stabbing of Bob Lee (which officials say was not a random mugging, as many assumed) and the beating of a former fire commissioner.

I think there are a lot of things on my agenda that challenge their profits, Preston said. When they see bigger visionary things like a public bank, taxing billionaires and banning evictions, they see that as a threat and dont want it to take hold because for better or worse, what happens in San Francisco spreads to other places.

As one might expect, Buss, once again, disagrees.

Perhaps if Dean logged off Twitter and actually spoke to his constituents in person hed realize how demeaning and out of touch his statements are, Buss wrote in a follow-up email. Everyone deserves to feel safe at home, at school, and in public. The desire to feel safe isnt progressive or conservative, its human.

There is one thing Buss and Preston do agree on: The 2024 race is sure to be bruising, and its going to require a strong candidate to unseat Preston, who will tie his opponent to tech billionaires like Musk.

Running for office is always difficult, but in this race, Dean Preston will slander you and attack you, Buss said. You need to have thick skin because frankly, hes a mean person.

Steven Buss is anti-union, anti-tenant and anti-rent control, said Preston. His politics are so out of sync and out of touch.

While its always cheesy for an article about a political campaign to conclude with ultimately the voters will decide, it seems the voters are truly the only people who can resolve this spat.
(Ad) Whether its for the well-being of your family or out of your sheer curiosity about an ex, the best background check services can be extremely handy. There are many factors for using such services, and the best background check services can give you the answers youre seeking in a matter of minutes.

So what actually is a background check, how much will it cost, and which are the best background check services that provide prompt, convenient, and of course, private results?

There are several background check services, ranging from expensive to budget-friendly, and you want to be sure that youre getting the best value for your money without being deceived. Read on to discover all the information you need to know.

8 Best Background Check Services: At a Glance

BeenVerified - Best Background Check Service Overall PeopleLooker - Best for Fast Results TruthFinder - Best Value for Money Intelius - Best Background Check Service for Speedy Results Instant Checkmate - Best for Ease of Use PeopleFinders - Most Extensive Database Spokeo - Best for Reverse Email Lookup US Search - Best for Affordability

Best Background Check Services for Accurate Results  In-Depth Review

Weve carefully considered a variety of elements when determining the best background check services. Access to confidential information, cost, speed, customer observations, and specifications are the most important components of our rating process. Please take a look at the sections below to get an in-depth look at our ranking procedure.

With that being said, here are the best background check services and why they made it onto our list of top picks.

BeenVerified - Best Background Check Service Overall

Pros

If you pay 3 months in advance, you'll get a discount

Software is compatible with both the iOS and Android platforms

Data from a wide range of sources

Cons

Background checks arent thorough

There isnt a centralized search engine

BeenVerified is a great background check service because it grants a court runner service, in which a BeenVerified worker physically goes to courts to acquire records that havent been uploaded to the website yet. There are apps available for both Android and iOS.

You can start your investigation with any data points that you want. If you pay in advance for three months, you can get a discount. The website doesnt allow single searches; rather, a subscription is required. After you have finished with all the "loading" windows, youll be able to view the prices.

Customers arent pleased as the reports give less information than those provided by other background check services.

Checks and Searches: 4.9/5

With an active BeenVerified membership, people are able to gain access to background checks, mobile phone details, communication data, email searches, address checks, and criminal history. Furthermore, users have the choice of seven diverse search techniques to locate the needed information.

Accuracy: 4.9/5

Even though BeenVerified typically provides reliable information, it isn't always spot-on. For example, consumers have noticed email addresses linked to them that they have never had or used.

Turnaround Time: 4.8/5

Obtaining the search results should take approximately six minutes, which is slow.

Cost: 5/5

If you pay for the service on a monthly basis, the fee is $26.89; however, if you settle the fee in a lump sum for three months then the monthly charge will be reduced to $17.48.

Customer Service: 5/5

You can reach customer service by either calling the toll-free number 866-885-6480 during the hours of 6:00 am to 11:30 pm Eastern Time, seven days per week, or by sending an email to support@beenverified.com.

Overall Score: 4.9/5

PeopleLooker - Best Background Check for Fast Results

Pros:

Simple to use

Comprehensive search reports

Excellent customer service

Includes social media and genealogy search

Cons:

Doesnt offer single reports

PeopleLooker is an online platform that provides comprehensive information on individuals by gathering data from various sources such as public records, social media, and online directories. It's an easy-to-use website that offers a range of services, including reverse phone lookups, address lookups, and background checks.

With PeopleLooker, users can quickly and easily search for people and access their contact information, criminal records, and other personal details. Although the accuracy of the information provided by PeopleLooker may vary, it's a valuable tool for those who need to find information on individuals for personal or professional reasons.

Checks and Searches: 4.9/5

PeopleLooker offers a variety of checks and screenings, including:

People Search : Users can search for individuals and access their contact information, address history, and related individuals.

: Users can search for individuals and access their contact information, address history, and related individuals. Background Checks : PeopleLooker can perform comprehensive background checks that include criminal records, sex offender records, arrest records, and court records.

: PeopleLooker can perform comprehensive background checks that include criminal records, sex offender records, arrest records, and court records. Reverse Phone Lookup : With this feature, users can enter a phone number and find out the name, address, and other available details of the person associated with that number.

: With this feature, users can enter a phone number and find out the name, address, and other available details of the person associated with that number. Address Lookup : Users can enter an address and find out the name of the property owner, the value of the property, and other information about the area.

: Users can enter an address and find out the name of the property owner, the value of the property, and other information about the area. Social Media Search : PeopleLooker can search social media platforms and provide information on an individual's social media profiles, including their activity and public posts.

: PeopleLooker can search social media platforms and provide information on an individual's social media profiles, including their activity and public posts. Email Lookup: This feature allows users to enter an email address and find out information such as the owner's name, location, and social media profiles.

Accuracy: 4.9/5

The accuracy of information provided by PeopleLooker may vary depending on several factors, including the source of the information, the individual's privacy settings, and the accuracy of the data in the public records. While PeopleLooker makes efforts to ensure the accuracy of the information provided, there may be cases where the information is incomplete, outdated, or incorrect.

Additionally, certain types of information, such as criminal records, may be restricted or unavailable in some jurisdictions. Therefore, it's essential to use the information obtained from PeopleLooker as a starting point and verify it through other means before making any decisions based on that information. Overall, PeopleLooker can be a valuable tool, but users should approach the information with caution and carefully consider its accuracy before making any decisions.

Turnaround Time: 5/5

The turnaround time for obtaining results from PeopleLooker may vary depending on the type of check or screening being performed. For simple searches, such as a people search or an address lookup, the results may be available almost instantly. However, more comprehensive checks, such as a background check, may take longer to complete.

The time it takes to obtain the results also depends on the availability of the data, which can vary depending on the location and the source of the information. In general, PeopleLooker provides very fast searches, and users can expect to receive the results within seconds.

Cost: 5/5

PeopleLooker operates on a monthly subscription model and provides customers with the option to trial the service for $1 for a period of 7 days. If customers wish to continue, they can select from two premium plans: a monthly membership priced at $22.86/month or a 3-month membership priced at $18.28/month.

Subscribing to their service offers unlimited access to background reports, contact information, arrest records, phone lookups, and email lookups, as well as more search options and faster searching capabilities. Customers can cancel their subscription at any time by contacting customer service via phone or email. However, we found the customer support team lacking as the agent we spoke with provided only generic information and did not appear overly helpful.

Customer Service: 5/5

PeopleLooker offers customer service through various channels to address any issues or concerns users may have. Users can contact PeopleLooker customer service via email, phone, or support tickets. The customer service representatives are available seven days a week from 6 am to 11:30 pm EST. Users can also access the help center on the PeopleLooker website, which contains frequently asked questions and other resources to assist with common issues.

PeopleLooker strives to provide excellent customer service and aims to resolve any concerns or issues promptly. The customer service representatives are knowledgeable and can assist with a range of issues, including billing, account access, and technical support. Additionally, PeopleLooker has a robust privacy policy and takes user privacy seriously, so users can be assured that their personal information is secure when using the service.

Overall Score: 4.9/5

TruthFinder - Best Value for Money

Pros

Members may do searches on the dark web

Available as an app for both Android and iOS

Capabilities for autonomous monitoring

With your membership, you may generate as many reports as you want

Includes a reverse phone lookup feature

Cons

Functions only in the USA

There's a fee for downloading reports

There's no trial version available

TruthFinder is among the best background check services out there, and when you subscribe, you get access to infinite reports each month without paying anything more. Every background check you do includes a search on the dark web.

You can manage background inquiries on the go with the mobile apps available for iOS and Android phones.

TruthFinder offers up-to-date reverse phone inquiries and provides self-monitoring capabilities so that you can have a look at what information about you would show up in a background check.

Unfortunately, you cannot make a single inquiry. To gain access to the database, you need to pay for a subscription every month. If you want to save your reports in PDF format, youll have to pay an additional fee for that.

This service for checking backgrounds is only an option for people who are either US citizens or have permanent residency. Read our TruthFinder review to find more information about its services.

Checks and Searches: 5/5

TruthFinder offers you the opportunity to access an extensive variety of details, from someone's age and aliases to the cars they own and permits they may have for carrying firearms.

More than 40 distinct types of data are available, including Amazon wishlists, social media accounts, hunting licenses, and permits for concealed weapons.

Accuracy: 5/5

Consumers have given glowing reviews to TruthFinder's background check services for their precision. For instance, Jim F. gave four stars to the leading background check website on Sitejabber, remarking, "Truthfinder.com was speedy and precise! Absolutely nothing was missed."

Turnaround Time: 5/5

Its possible to get the data you need in a short amount of time, and with reports ready in two or three minutes, its the third fastest option available. Note that with a subscription, you can get results quicker.

Cost: 4.5/5

If you pay for TruthFinder for one month at a time, itll cost you $28.05. If you opt to pay for the service every two months, the cost is reduced to $23.28 per month.

Customer Service: 4.7/5

The customer support phone line is available from Monday to Friday, 7:00 am to 4:00 pm (Pacific Time), and can be reached at 800-699-8081. In addition, assistance is provided by sending an email to help@truthfinder.com.

Overall Score: 4.9/5

TruthFinder does not provide consumer reports and is not a consumer reporting agency as defined by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). You may not use the TruthFinder site or the information it provides to make decisions about consumer credit, insurance, employment, housing, or any other purpose that would require FCRA compliance.

Intelius - Best for Speedy Results

Intelius is the top-rated best background check service that gives users speedy searches and reports. This service, which was founded in 2003, is reliable and provides fast investigations into criminal histories and geolocation data.

It also uses a secure connection with 256-bit encryption to guarantee that your search for someone's records will remain confidential. With Intelius, you can access millions of public records. Check out our review of Intelius to see if its the best fit for your needs.

Checks and Searches: 4/5

Intelius is considered to be among the best background check services when it comes to uncovering property records since it offers a reverse address lookup, a reverse phone lookup, a background check, a search of public records, and a search of criminal records.

Accuracy: 5/5

Intelius's customers have reported that the firm's reports are more precise than its competitors, making it one of the best background check services.

As an example, Fred from Bunnlevel, North Carolina, posted a review of Intelius on consumer affairs, pointing out that he found the person he was looking for like magic! after using the service.

Turnaround Time: 4.5/5

It can take longer than five minutes for Intelius to supply the information from their loading pages, which is the third slowest rate of the top background check services that weve evaluated.

Cost: 4.5/5

A fee of $24.86 is charged to access a people search every month. When two months are prepaid, the cost drops to $21.13 per month. The amount of a single search may vary depending on whats needed.

Customer Service: 3/5

On weekdays from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Eastern Standard Time, customers can get in touch with customer service by dialing the toll-free 888-245-1655. Furthermore, they can also contact the customer support team by sending an email to support@mailer.intelius.com.

Overall Score: 4.75/5

Intelius does not provide consumer reports and is not a consumer reporting agency as defined by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). You may not use the Intelius site or the information it provides to make decisions about consumer credit, insurance, employment, housing, or any other purpose that would require FCRA compliance.

Instant Checkmate - Best for Ease of Use

Pros

Quick and easy assistance

Extremely accurate

Thorough documentation

Best for researching land titles

App for smartphones thats easy to use

Cons

It might be time-consuming to load reports

It isn't possible to generate individual reports

User feedback reveals that Instant Checkmate's search results are much more accurate than those of its competitors, earning it the reputation of being one of the best background check services available. Its very straightforward to use, particularly if you're looking for details from social media.

The reports given by Instant Checkmate include quite a lot of information. Nevertheless, it takes some time for the website to load up the report. As with other services, there's a monthly subscription option, with no option to purchase individual reports.

Check our in-depth Instant Checkmate review to discover more about this background check site.

Checks and Searches: 4.5/5

When running a background check, its possible that the individual will have to provide information such as their professional qualifications, court rulings, any unpaid taxes, hunting or fishing permits, proof of being registered to vote, and documents related to owning a firearm.

Accuracy: 5/5

Instant Checkmate has proven to be a great background check service due to its accurate results. When compared to other top background check services, customers have found Instant Checkmate to be more precise.

Cynthia from Pflugerville, Texas, is a perfect example; she said that the services were "very exact and informative, especially as a single woman who is constantly being approached by men from different nations on social media!"

Turnaround Time: 4/5

Registering for a subscription to get your document will take 10 minutes, with several loading processes that need to be completed in the meantime. Compared to other firms on our list of best background check services, the waiting period at this organization is notably longer.

Cost: 3.5/5

If you pay for one month of service, the cost will be $35.12. If you make an upfront payment for three months of service, the fee is reduced to $28.09 each month.

Customer Service: 4.5/5

Customers can dial the toll-free 800-222-8985 to contact customer care from Monday until Friday between 7 am and 4 pm Pacific Time. Another way to get help is to send an email to help@instantcheckmate.com.

Overall Score: 4.6/5

Instant Checkmate does not provide consumer reports and is not a consumer reporting agency as defined by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). You may not use the Instant Checkmate site or the information it provides to make decisions about consumer credit, insurance, employment, housing, or any other purpose that would require FCRA compliance.

PeopleFinders - Most Extensive Database

Pros

Payment terms available on a monthly basis

Excellent mobile apps

There's one search option

Wonderful service to customers

Cons

No information available from social media platforms

Only US data is included in searches

High cost for cancellations

PeopleFinders is an amazing background check service, and their customer service is truly excellent. It offers users the option of making a one-off search or subscribing to a plan with recurring payments. It also features some of the most cutting-edge mobile applications.

The company's customer service continually gets outstanding ratings from its customers. If you choose to cancel your membership before the set period, you may be subject to a hefty early termination fee.

The searches available are only for the United States, there's no search feature for social media, and the help options are quite limited.

Look up an individual with PeopleFinders

Checks and Searches: 4.5/5

The initial search will only yield a restricted amount of data, including name, current residence, age, earlier address, email address, and phone number.

Accuracy: 5/5

PeopleFinders is widely acknowledged as one of the best background check services, with customers and critics commending its accuracy. Keisha from Winterset, Iowa, for instance, gave the website a positive review, declaring, "The information provided was accurate and legitimate."

Turnaround Time: 5/5

PeopleFinders can produce your report in a remarkably short period. This speed has earned PeopleFinders its place among the highest ranking background check sites.

Cost: 4.5/5

Cost of single searches varies from 95 to $9.95. A subscription fee of $29.95 is mandatory for members.

Customer Service: 4/5

Clients can get help by calling 800-718-8997 from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm EST from Monday to Friday and from 10:00 am to 6:30 pm on Saturdays and Sundays. Additionally, customers can reach out using the contact form available on the website.

Overall Score: 4.4/5

Spokeo - Best for Reverse Email Lookup

Pros

Make a one-time payment

Webpage updated often

Functionality geared to ease of use

Several zero-cost options

It allows you to completely remove all of your data

Cons

Customer concerns about accuracy

Plans that allow for limitless searching arent available

Spokeo is recognized as one of the best background check services because it doesn't ask for payment just to access the basic information it furnishes, such as research through email.

If a more comprehensive background check is requested, then a minimal one-time fee is required. Individuals can also opt to remove their data from its listings at any time. The user interface is easy to understand, and the website often updates its content.

Conversely, a lot of consumers have voiced their unhappiness with the findings as they either were incorrect or there was very little information available.

Checks and Searches: 4.5/5

Spokeo searches through a massive amount of public documents to provide search results that potentially give a person's contact info, personal info, past locations, financial information, family members, criminal records, associates, and social media profiles.

These billions of records comprise property, social media, business, and consumer information.

Accuracy: 4/5

The majority of people who used the service have been satisfied; however, some people have been vocal about their disappointment, asserting that the data provided is incorrect. For example, Buddy R. posted a review on Sitejabber and commented that "providing wrong information puts you in the same category as a fraudster."

Turnaround Time: 5/5

Out of the best background check services that we have highlighted, this one is the second quickest at providing results.

Cost: 5/5

A decrease of $1.95 can be enjoyed when purchasing the full name report, resulting in a final cost of $0.95.

Customer Service: 5/5

Customers can connect with customer service by dialing 888-271-9562 from Monday to Sunday from 8:00 am to 11:00 pm Eastern Time. Additionally, individuals can get in touch with Spokeo by sending an email to customercare@spokeo.com.

Overall Score: 4.5/5

US Search - Best for Affordability

Pros

Guaranteed refunds

Many search criteria are available

More search options than almost all the other services

Cons

Virtual assistants move at a snail's pace & provide little practical value

Low-cost searches don't give too much information

US Search is a search engine that provides customers with the best background searches and has been around since 1998, so it's considered one of the most established sites. PeopleData is the technology that runs this service, and it can be used to look up a name by phone number for a low price of $1.99 or you can pay $19.86/month for unlimited searches.

This service has been featured in popular platforms, so many people are familiar with this service. Its fast and efficient when it comes to looking up criminal records, including sexual offenders, felonies, and misdemeanors.

You can use this website to search local databases, state registers, or even access databases from all over the United States depending on your requirements.

US Search is renowned for supplying the most options for searches. This makes it possible to acquire a wide variety of data, hence making it stand out among the list of the best background check services. If you select the all-in-one search, youll additionally receive searches for social media platforms.

The detailed background search is the most thorough search you can get, but it'll cost about $19.86. This check will include a criminal history and significant economic facts, like a bankruptcy declaration.

Checks and Searches: 4/5

Along with a thorough investigation of one's history, other forms of background investigations comprise:

An examination of criminal records

A search of social network sites

An email search

A search of property records

A reverse phone lookup

Accuracy: 5/5

Although you may not have taken advantage of this famous service before, you might be aware of its reputation because it has been featured as one of the premier background check companies on renowned news programs.

Turnaround Time: 4/5

It'll require you to wait through loading screens for approximately five minutes prior to signing up for a membership and obtaining your report. The waiting time with this company is much more than the other best background check services on our list.

Cost: 4/5

It's possible to purchase single name searches from the business for a cost of $2.45, or customers can opt for an unlimited amount of lookups for a monthly fee of $20.

Customer Service: 4/5

To get in touch with customer service, you can dial (888) 712-0108, Monday through Friday between 7:00 am and 4:00 pm PST. Additionally, you can also send an email to support@ussearch.com.

Overall Score: 4.6/5

USSearch does not provide consumer reports and is not a consumer reporting agency as defined by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). You may not use the USSearch site or the information it provides to make decisions about consumer credit, insurance, employment, housing, or any other purpose that would require FCRA compliance.

Ranking Methodology for the Best Background Check Services

Access to Non-Public Information

When searching for a comprehensive background check site, it's essential to have access to confidential details. Credit headers are the top part of a credit report and don't include any personal financial or employment history.

Credit headers can be used to verify essential specifics, such as the most up-to-date address, contact number, and job information.

Access to State Records

A few states allow people to do a free or inexpensive search if the application is filled in digitally or by hand. However, it's much more straightforward to pay for a premium search that includes state records that may be of interest.

This premium search can also validate confidential details, such as a valid license in the state where the person practices, academic degrees, marriage records, death records, traffic violations, and other essential information that can confirm a person's identity and accomplishments.

Social Media Searches

In today's world, employers and other organizations often use social media as part of their screening sessions when vetting potential candidates. A standard Google search usually only looks at public names and links.

However, some best background check services employ software that combs through trends, names, and profiles to uncover more detailed information. BeenVerified takes it a step further by performing a deep web search, providing quality results.

Custom Background Searches

Specialized background searches may involve different tests as a bundle and could also have more detailed evaluations that are connected to a job opportunity or specific contract work  for example, babysitters or housesitters.

Accreditation

Certain companies that conduct background searches promote themselves as being accredited. The requirements for obtaining this designation may include ensuring that the rights of the people being investigated are safeguarded and that all applicable laws are followed.

Report Information Accuracy

Faulty accounts can block you from accomplishing your goals and can also result in expensive consequences. The most dependable background check services will have a track record of exactness and expertise thatll enable you to make a knowledgeable judgment.

Search Customization

It's beneficial to search extensively, but not all best background check services are identical. Its beneficial to be more particular and concentrate on former employment or financial details, and its essential to find an organization that can precisely narrow down outcomes to what is wanted. A respected background check service will have various levels of investigations so that the necessary information for the situation can be obtained.

Ease of Use

Even if you aren't a private investigator, you don't need to be an expert in technology to use the best background check services. Ideally, the best background check services should be uncomplicated to use and present the data in a straightforward manner. The best online background check will make the process as effortless as possible and get you the results you need quickly.

Customer Support

The most reliable background search providers have a helpful customer service team that knows the intricacies of the industry and can answer any questions you have. If your research keeps hitting dead ends, they should be able to explain why.

Additionally, background search services should be focused on giving the best outcome for customers and not attempting to peddle searches that may not be related to your requirements.

Paid background searches are a great way of obtaining the data you need but cannot find alone. If you opt for a paid service, the information will be given to you in a neat and straightforward format.

Guide to Best Background Checks

When an enterprise, association, or single person desires to acquire data about someone prior to forming a business or personal connection, background search services are a straightforward and suitable resource. This guide will explain precisely what a background check is, how it works, and the details it can uncover.

What Is a Background Check?

A background search service that is available online will thoroughly explore the entire internet for details about the individual you're looking for.

The records that these services can reach are the ones that you could technically find on your own, but it could take you a long period to acquire the data you need. The background check services can browse through vast quantities of data and generate a comprehensive report for you quickly.

Furthermore, these online background checks arent limited to criminal records. Theyre also able to uncover credit reports, past employment, and financial reports, along with other details that give you an insight into the life of the person and also confirm their identity.

What Are the Levels of Best Background Checks?

Its important to recognize that there are various kinds of background checks, as this can assist with ordering the correct one and interpreting the results more aptly.

Level 1 : Identity verification (name, addresses, phone numbers, DOB, SSN, etc.)

: Identity verification (name, addresses, phone numbers, DOB, SSN, etc.) Level 2 : Criminal background checks (via the local police or federal authorities)

: Criminal background checks (via the local police or federal authorities) Level 3 : Credit history and score checks

: Credit history and score checks Level 4 : Motor vehicle record

: Motor vehicle record Level 5 : Educational and professional background checks

: Educational and professional background checks Level 6 : Fingerprint checks

: Fingerprint checks Level 7: Verify legal work status

What Shows Up on a Background Check?

Different levels of background checks can be conducted, ranging from basic to highly specific. The extent of the investigation will depend on the purpose of the background check.

For instance, if someone is monitoring an ex-partner, they may not investigate as much as if they were doing a background check for a position within a security firm. Generally, the most common background check companies give the following info:

Universal background checks

Social media scans

Professional licenses background checks

International background checks

OIG background checks

Personal background checks

E-Verify background checks

Criminal background checks

Education verification

Reference check

Credit background checks

Social Security number trace

Background checks for employment

A background check can provide a plethora of particulars concerning a person, such as their contact information, age, and birthdate.

Furthermore, it can also contain more intricate specifics, like criminal and arrest reports, job history, and educational background. Moreover, further items that may feature in a background check include:

Weapon permits

References

Driving history

Wikipedia pages

Military records

Liens

Relatives

Credit

Photographs

Other types of licenses (professional)

Blogs

Social media profiles

Personal websites

Sexual offender registry listings

Marriage licenses

Civil records

Aliases

Bankruptcies

And background check services can provide more, depending on the background check company and policies youre working with.

Best Background Checks for Employee and Tenant Screening

Our list is dedicated to providing personal or preventive searches to guard the consumer, so we won't evaluate the following companies. However, we do advise you to look into their standing on TrustPilot and the Better Business Bureau. These firms dont provide services to regular customers with personal problems but rather offer credit reporting and other confidential government documents for qualified industry-to-industry intentions.

Checkr

GoodHire

Sterling

Universal Background Screening

EBI

The Shrewd Searchers Guide to Finding Best Background Checks

People who are trying to safeguard themselves are also looking for the same type of records and are legally allowed to access much of the same information. A basic search on Google will bring up a decent list of legitimate background check sites, yet its still important to look at several elements before selecting which one would be the best fit.

The ability to access public records online is a fairly recent development. Years ago, people would depend on personal references to validate a resume. Over time, it became very beneficial to have an impartial source of information, especially for commercial and residential searchers who wanted to avoid theft and crime.

Currently, when employers or federal government personnel do a background check, they're looking for the same basic facts.

Felony charges

Debt and severe monetary difficulties

Administrative or legal proceedings

Intoxication with drugs

Best Background Check Services  FAQ

What are the Most Accurate Background Check Services?

BeenVerified is the best background search service. It contains highly private information such as countrywide criminal background searches, addresses, contact numbers, real estate records, civil judgments, images, and some other court documents.

Where Do the Best Background Check Services Get Their Information?

The best background check services will take a comprehensive look at someone's past and current situation to provide the most exact details possible.

When conducting a background search, they will begin with public documents, including data taken from papers that can be accessed by the public, like police records, birth certificates, and titles of ownership.

Then, the premier background check services will search secondary sources, which could include articles or news stories located on the web, profiles on social media networks, and telephone books.

Eventually, theyll look into other online sources like Amazon and the magazines one has subscribed to. Theyll also try to find information about voting registration, permits for hunting or fishing, and any occupational certifications or associations one is part of.

How Do I Pick the Best Background Check Services?

To decide on the best background check service for your needs, you must do some research. Consider all of the available options and what characteristics are most important to you, such as the type of background search that can be done, the accuracy of the reports sent, and the time it takes to get the report.

When doing a background search, you should also take into account the cost of the service, customer support, and any other pertinent details. Eventually, you may conclude that BeenVerified and PeopleLooker are two of the best background check services for you. However this may not be true in all cases.

Why Run a Background Check?

Investigating someone's history is what is known as a background search. This is often used when you meet someone new, and you want to ensure that the individual has no criminal record or any other legal issues.

This type of background search also confirms the person's job experience, marital status, and any other information that could be related to the job they're applying for. The expression "background search" covers both criminal and non-criminal reports.

How Long Does a Background Check Take?

The time it takes to finish a background search could range from a few hours to a few days, depending on the service provider. The process is usually managed by a third-party company that has access to public and court archives.

The turnaround time will be determined by how fast the report is needed and if there are any extra costs associated with the background check. There are certain background searches that can give immediate results, but this isn't always an option for all types of reports.

Are Background Check Services Legal?

In the majority of states, its permissible to carry out background checks. Each state has regulations and policies that must be followed when conducting these searches. Additionally, background checks are also authorized for most federal roles and quite a few state roles.

In some areas, there may be rules about who can use the background check services and what data can be obtained. Consequently, its essential to talk to an attorney if you have questions regarding the background check laws of your state.

Its wise to inquire with your state's unemployment office and the HR department of your company before settling on anything regarding the recruitment of a new worker.

Is It Safe to Use These Best Background Check Services?

The best background check services have a complex encryption process to keep the individual's history you're examining from being seen on the web. There's absolutely no chance of them realizing that you did a search on them.

Your name, email address, and payment card data are all kept safe within your customer profile, just like any other confidential information. The best background check services will only give out your personal information in extraordinary circumstances, such as when you make a payment for your subscription or have to comply with a legal situation.

Additionally, the best background check services make sure that your details will never be shared.

The most reliable best background check services offer a great deal of security, even allowing users the opportunity to remove their information if desired.

Best Background Check Services: The Takeaway

With todays advanced technology, accessing data isn't a challenge, but its hard to know which reports are valid. Applications and sites that provide background checks can make it much easier to get a sense of security.

Its almost impossible to keep certain secrets hidden when you conduct background checks. With these checks, you can safeguard yourself from any suspicious scenarios. You can even use a reverse phone lookup to thwart scammers.

Not only can you run checks on other people, but you can also check yourself on the background check services. As the internet is an extensive place, you may not be aware of what kind of information is out there. By examining yourself, youll get prepared for interviews and secure your profile.

Generally, BeenVerified captivated us the most, as it provides not only criminal history and sex offender searches but also searches of the surface web, dark web, deep web, and other records that weren't included in the free WhitePages type searches.

If you're remotely concerned about a new companion, talkative colleague, family associate, or anyone who's around your house, why not carry out a background check right now?
AP

NEW YORK (AP)  JPMorgan Chase & Co. CEO Jamie Dimon must undergo up to two days of questioning by lawyers handling lawsuits over whether the bank can be held liable in financier Jeffrey Epsteins sexual abuse of teenage girls and women, a federal judge said Tuesday.

During a telephone conference with lawyers, Judge Jed Rakoff in Manhattan ordered Dimon to set aside two days for deposition testimony, though he didnt specify when. He said one day of testimony might be sufficient and lawyers would have to get his approval to continue to a second day.
Washington's top diplomat said Tuesday that a U.S. Embassy convoy came under fire in Sudan and denounced indiscriminate military operations adding preliminary reports have suggested the assailants are linked to the Rapid Support Forces, the paramilitary group battling Sudan's military.

The convoy of clearly marked embassy vehicles was attacked on Monday, as the countrys armed forces and a powerful rival unleashed heavy weapons in urban areas for a fourth day.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters, "Everyone in the convoy was safe."

The convoy attack, along with earlier assaults on aid workers and the EU envoy's residence in the capital of Khartoum, signaled further descent into chaos since the battle by two rival generals for control of Africa's third-largest country erupted over the weekend.

More than 185 people have been killed and more than 1,800 wounded, according to U.N. figures, which did not include a breakdown of civilians and combatants. The Sudan Doctors' Syndicate said Tuesday that at least 144 civilians were killed and more than 1,400 wounded since Saturday.

The overall death toll could be much higher because clashes in Khartoum have prevented the removal of bodies in some areas.

The two sides have been using tanks, artillery and other heavy weapons in densely populated areas.

Late Monday, fighter jets swooped overhead and anti-aircraft fire lit up the skies as darkness fell. Fighting resumed early Tuesday around each sides main bases and at strategic government buildings  all of which are in residential areas.

Satellite images from Maxar Technologies taken Monday showed damage across Khartoum, including security service buildings. Tanks stood guard at a bridge over the White Nile River and other locations in the capital.

Satellite images from Planet Labs PBC, also taken Monday, showed some 20 damaged aircraft at Khartoum International Airport, which also has a military side. Some had been completely destroyed, with one still belching smoke. At the El Obeid and Merowe air bases, north and south of Khartoum, several fighter jets were among the destroyed aircraft.

Top diplomats have urged the two rival generals  armed forces chief Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan and RSF leader Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo  to halt fighting.

The State Department said late Monday that Blinken spoke by phone separately with the two generals.

I made very clear (in my calls) that any attacks or threats or dangers posed to our diplomats were totally unacceptable, Blinken told reporters at the Group of Seven wealthy nations meeting in Japan on Tuesday,

He appealed for an immediate 24-hour cease-fire, as a foundation for a longer truce and a return to negotiations. Indiscriminate military operations have resulted in significant deaths and injuries, recklessly endangering civilians, diplomats, including U.S. personnel, and humanitarian personnel, he said.

Dagalo said in a series of tweets Tuesday that he had approved a 24-hour humanitarian truce after speaking to Blinken while the Sudanese military said more troops would join the battle and that it would "widen the scope of its operations against the RSF.

Burhan and Dagalo, former allies who jointly orchestrated an October 2021 coup, have dug in, demanding the other's surrender. The violence has raised the spectre of civil war just as Sudanese were trying to revive the drive for a democratic, civilian government after decades of military rule.

The Sudanese military blamed the RSF, which grew out of the notorious Janjaweed militias in Sudan's Darfur region, for the attack on the U.S. convoy and an earlier assault on the home of the EU envoy in Khartoum.

The European Unions foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell tweeted Monday that the EU ambassador to Sudan was assaulted in his own residency, without providing further details.

The RSF denied involvement in the attack on the ambassadors home, instead blaming the military. However, a Western diplomat in Cairo said the residence was ransacked by armed men in RSF uniforms. No one was hurt but the armed men stole several items, said the diplomat who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not allowed to talk to media.

Under international pressure, Burhan and Dagalo had recently agreed to a framework agreement with political parties and pro-democracy groups, but the signing was repeatedly delayed as tensions rose over the integration of the RSF into the armed forces and the future chain of command.

Only four years ago, Sudan inspired hope after a popular uprising helped depose long-time autocratic leader Omar al-Bashir.

But the turmoil since, especially the 2021 coup, has frustrated the democracy drive and wrecked the economy. A third of the population  around 16 million people  now depends on humanitarian assistance in the resource-rich nation.

*This story was edited by Ahram Online

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SAN FRANCISCO (AP)  SAN FRANCISCO (AP)  Prologis Inc. (PLD) on Tuesday reported a key measure of profitability in its first quarter. The results beat Wall Street expectations.

The real estate investment trust, based in San Francisco, said it had funds from operations of $1.16 billion, or $1.22 per share, in the period.
Theres a new item in the stoners toolbox, and its here just in time to celebrate 4/20: tiny pot drinks that are designed to get you as high as legally possible.

These drinks look like the 5-hour Energy drinks you can get at the gas station, but these tiny bottles are loaded with a huge dose of THC, an intoxicant found in cannabis.

Pot companies have been infusing weed into drinks for more than a decade, but these new shooters have some key differences from standard pot sodas and lemonades. Those conventional weed drinks are usually around 12 ounces and contain 10 milligrams or less of THC. These new drinks flip the script by taking a tiny bottle and filling it with the strongest pot potency legally possible.

Take, for instance, Lehua Brands new Tiki Blast Zombie Punch. It contains 2 ounces of liquid, stands barely 2 inches tall, and boasts a whopping 100 milligrams of THC. Thats strong enough to get around a dozen people stoned, depending on their pot tolerance.

Randy Reed, the former chief science officer at Lehua Brands, said the drink pays homage to another famously strong California beverage: a cocktail called the zombie, which was invented at a Hollywood Tiki restaurant in 1934.

The reason they call it a zombie is because you can drink one, some people can drink two, but no one can drink three because its super strong. It fks people up. You turn into a zombie after the third one, Reed said. The drink is notoriously regulated at Tiki bars, with menu notes that read only one per customer.

A zombie dinner party

I have always been a skeptic of pot drinks. I barely feel the effects of a 10 milligram THC drink, and they generally take between 30 minutes and an hour to kick in  which is basically forever when compared to the fast action of smoking a joint. But I recently tried Lehuas Tiki Blast and, for the first time in years of trying weed drinks, was convinced that drinking weed might actually be a good thing.

I brought the tiny shooter of pot to a dinner party and shared it with two other friends. We made cannabis cocktails, mixing the Tiki Blast with ginger beer. The bottles cap serves as a dosing device, with a capful containing 10 mg of THC. Each of us was able to customize our dose  I took 40 milligrams, while my two other friends took 20 and 40 milligrams each.

Lester Black/SFGATE

The ginger beers spiciness mixed pleasantly with the punchs papaya and grapefruit flavors. There was an herbal quality to the drink as well, but it was less like weed and more like the hop-forward taste of an IPA.

We drank our pot cocktails over appetizers and within 20 minutes, I was feeling a creeping stoned feeling. We hadnt even gotten to the main course. One friend said he was feeling wavy, the other said she was definitely feeling high. An hour later, I was fully high, giggling and enjoying myself. Three hours later, I was feeling pretty tired, but also very stoned. Id call my Tiki Blast party drink a success.

Reed told me that the fast action of Lehuas Tiki Blast is caused by two things. First, the cannabis oil in the beverage is a nanoemulsion, which means the oil has been broken down into microscopic drops and then suspended in the drinks liquid. Its a technique used by the pharmaceutical industry to make drugs more effective. Second, the drink is infused with grapefruit juice, cinnamon and ginger, which he said makes pot hit you faster and more intensely.

It has all of these different things in there that are really designed to make it hit harder than any other cannabis shot product, Reed said.

A smaller product that packs a bigger punch

These new drinks are partly a response to the legalization of cannabis. During the medical marijuana days, pot companies were allowed to fill their cannabis edibles with huge doses of THC, sometimes as high as 1,000 milligrams in one chocolate bar. But legalization brought stricter dosage limits and California, like most states with recreational cannabis, restricts the amount of THC that you can put in a single package of edibles to 100 milligrams.

Safety advocates say that this dosage restriction is important because high-dose edibles are dangerous for novice cannabis users, who can easily eat too much pot and put themselves in dangerous situations. New York Times columnist Maureen Dowd famously proved this point when she ate too much pot chocolate and ended up having a panic attack in a Denver hotel room. The recommendation for cannabis beginners is to experiment with tiny dose edibles, as small as 1 milligram THC, before trying anything more potent.

But for Californians who enjoy larger doses of THC or need more of the compound for medical purposes, these regulations can make it almost impossible to enjoy legal cannabis edibles.

Lester Black/SFGATE

These concentrated cannabis shooters are an attempt at solving that problem. Phelipe Bates, an assistant manager at Nob Hills Magic Flower Cannabis Dispensary, told SFGATE me that hes seen more of these smaller drinks from manufacturers, as they look for legal ways to allow experienced users to quickly consume higher doses of THC.

Generally the market skews towards people wanting to get higher, instead of drinking a whole 12 ounce thing that might have a lower dosage, youre looking for a smaller product that packs a bigger punch, Bates said.
Fox News settled a major defamation lawsuit for $787.5 million on Tuesday, according to the voting machine company that sued the top cable news network.

The settlement avoids a trial that could have shed additional light on former President Donald Trump's election lies, revealed more about how the right-leaning network operates and even redefined libel law in the U.S. Here are some things to know about the case.

___

THE CASE

Dominion Voting Systems sued Fox for $1.6 billion, claiming the news outlet repeatedly aired allegations that the company's voting machines were rigged against Trump in 2020 while knowing the accusations were untrue. Fox contended that it was reporting newsworthy charges made by supporters of the Republican president. The network said it was supported legally by libel standards.

The judge in the case announced that the two parties had resolved the matter Tuesday, just as opening arguments were scheduled to begin. Fox did not reveal settlement terms, but Dominion said the deal was for $787.5 million.

___

ELECTION DISCONNECT

Denver-based Dominion produced evidence that prominent people at Fox didn't believe the fraud allegations, even as the network gave Trumps allies airtime to repeat them. Multiple staffers texted and emailed in disbelief as Trump latched onto increasingly tenuous claims of being robbed by voter fraud. Foxs Sean Hannity said in a deposition that he did not believe the fraud claims for one second but wanted to give accusers the chance to produce evidence.

Fox founder Rupert Murdoch, questioned under oath, agreed that the 2020 election, won by Democrat Joe Biden, was free and fair: The election was not stolen, he said. Murdoch even wrote on Jan. 5, 2021, to a top executive urging that prominent Fox personalities issue a statement acknowledging Biden's legitimate win. At the same time, Murdoch acknowledged that Fox hosts such as Lou Dobbs and Jeanine Pirro at times endorsed false claims of election fraud.

___

FOXS FEAR

The court papers laid out a profound concern at Fox over the impact of its election night call that Biden had beaten Trump in the battleground state of Arizona  a call that was accurate. Fox scooped its rivals on the call, but it infuriated Trump and many Fox viewers, who expressed their anger and began tuning in to rival conservative media outlets such as Newsmax. Emails and memos released in the case show Fox executives were highly aware of a drop-off in their network's viewership at the same time that Newsmax was gaining viewers, and the executives viewed that dynamic as a potential threat.

___

LIBEL LAW

In its defense, Fox relied on a doctrine of libel law that has been in place since a 1964 U.S. Supreme Court ruling. The doctrine has made it difficult for some plaintiffs to prove defamation by news outlets. Public figures, and Dominion fits that standard in this case, have to prove not only that the information reported was incorrect but that the news organization acted with reckless disregard about whether it was true or not.

Some First Amendment advocates suggested the voting machine company had a strong argument. But they worried that a prolonged legal battle would give the Supreme Court a chance to change libel laws that would weaken protection for all media.

___

JUDGE'S IRE

The run-up to the trial was rocky for Fox, and not just because the public got a look at such private chatter as primetime host Tucker Carlson saying he passionately hated Trump. The trial judge has scolded the network for 11th-hour disclosures about Murdochs role at Fox News and about some evidence involving Fox Business host Maria Bartiromo, including recordings of her talking off-camera with Trumps lawyers.

Fox lawyers later apologized to the judge about the Murdoch matter, saying it was a misunderstanding not intended to deceive. Fox, meanwhile, won some legal fights over limiting what jurors could hear, including a ruling that barred testimony about the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.

___

TRUMPS INTEREST

Trump took a keen interest in the case, judging by his social media posts. Always concerned about loyalty, and nursing a grudge about the Arizona call, he expressed anger at revelations in the case that many people at Fox not only did not support his fraud allegations but privately disdained them. Trump stepped up his criticism of Fox as the 2024 Republican presidential race gained steam, but he gave recent interviews to Carlson and Hannity.

___

THE ELECTION

Federal and state election officials, exhaustive reviews in multiple battleground states where Trump challenged his loss, and Trumps attorney general found no widespread fraud that could have changed the outcome of the 2020 election. Nor did they uncover any credible evidence that the vote was tainted. Trumps allegations of fraud also have been roundly rejected by dozens of courts, including by judges he appointed.
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CONWAY, N.H. (AP)  Bakery owner Sean Young was thrilled when high school art students covered the big blank wall over his doorway last spring with a painting of the sun shining over a mountain range made of sprinkle-covered chocolate and strawberry donuts, a blueberry muffin, a cinnamon roll and other pastries.

The display got rave reviews, and Young looked forward to collaborating with the school on more mural projects at his roadside bakery in Conway, New Hampshire.

Then the town zoning board got involved, deciding that the pastry painting was not so much art as advertising, and so could not remain as is because of its size. Faced with modifying or removing the mural, or possibly dealing with fines and criminal charges, Young sued, saying the town is violating his freedom of speech rights.

The painting could stay right where it is if it showed actual mountains, instead of pastries suggesting mountains, or if the building wasnt a bakery.

They said it would be art elsewhere, Young told The Associated Press in an interview. Its just not art here.

The town should not have the right to police art, he said.

The controversy has residents of this town of 10,000 grappling with big questions about creativity and liberty as it tries to preserve its rural character. Like other White Mountain communities that draw skiers, nature lovers and shoppers, Conway is under development pressure, making the sign dispute fraught with worries that any concession to commerce could change what they hold dear.

Many  including the zoning board members  applauded the students' colorful work, but said rules must be followed, even if they're old and outdated. At about 90 square feet (8.6 square meters), the mural is four times bigger than the sign code allows.

Following a longstanding democratic tradition of New England town meetings, residents deliberated how to define a sign before ultimately voting down changes last week. The local newspaper said the proposed wording wasn't clear. Ultimately, a judge may have to resolve what remains an open debate in town.

Those kids put their heart in it, retiree Steve Downing said. He thinks the painting should stay.

Everyone has to comply with the ordinance," said Charlie Birch, a former U.S. Forest Service worker. "And even though it was done by the students, which was well done, and I give them a lot of credit for it ... if you have the ordinance, One for all, thats where we are. You cant really make any exceptions, otherwise everybody else will want the exception.

Art teacher Olivia Benish, who worked with three students on the project, apologized to the board in September for not doing due diligence to make sure the mural would comply. She didn't respond to requests for an interview. But she told the board members that there has to be a way to give students the opportunity to create positive public works of art "without upsetting the law and the powers that be, according to the town minutes.

The lawsuit Young filed in January argues that the town is unconstitutionally discriminating against him. He asked a judge to prevent the town from enforcing its sign code.

And now other businesses have been drawn into the controversy.

Long before the pastry painting was installed, the town had allowed other murals at a local shopping center, but in December the town found that three of those artworks are, indeed, signs that violate size limits. They go before the zoning board on Wednesday.

Young, who is being represented by the Virginia-based Institute for Justice, asked for $1 in damages. Meanwhile, hes selling T-shirts as a high school art department fundraiser, saying This is Art with the artwork on the front, and This is a Sign of a roadside Leavitts Country Bakery sign on the back.

As Conway officials have confirmed, the town does not consider a painting to be a sign if it does not convey what town officials perceive to be a commercial message, the lawsuit says. But the towns perception is that any mural depicting anything related to a business is a sign. This is governmental discrimination based on the content of the speech" and the speaker's identity, it said.

The lawsuit says the towns sign definition is incredibly broad, with no mention of murals in the code: A sign in Conway is any device, fixture, placard, structure or attachment thereto that uses color, form, graphic, illumination, symbol, or writing to advertise, announce the purpose of, or identify the purpose of any person or entity, or to communicate information of any kind to the public, whether commercial or noncommercial.

Board member Luigi Bartolomeo said he thinks the pastry painting is art, not advertising. He read the definition out loud at the board's meeting in August, and said he agrees with a local attorney who called it unconstitutionally vague.

I think its a very badly written piece of code here, said Bartolomeo, who recently retired. But Board Chairperson John Colbath said the board has to work with the ordinance, which was approved by voters, and that there is a process to change that.

If they had done a seasonal mural on the wall  covered bridges and sunflowers and what have you  and it did not represent what your business is in, then it would be more likely to be a well-respected piece of art and not construed as a sign, Colbath said at the August meeting.

He said to Young, I understand the art thing  and you look and you see a mountain  but the general public sees donuts on the front of the bakery.

I think most of the people said its art, Young responded.

In its denial of Young's appeals, the board concluded that the bakery won't be negatively affected without the display.

This supposed distinction between murals and signs shouldnt matter, attorney Betsy Sanz of the Institute said in a news release. After all, nothing in the First Amendment distinguishes between art and commercial signs  or commercial speech of any kind.

The town and Young agreed in February to pause court proceedings  and any potential fines or charges  pending a vote on a revised definition that would allow the painting to stay. But it failed in last week's elections, with 805 to 750 voting against it, according to the town clerks office. The judge now wants to hear from both sides by May 10.

Were ready to keep going, Young said.

Town Manager John Eastman declined an interview, referring questions to town lawyer Jason Dennis, who said he would soon meet with town officials to discuss next steps.

The Conway Daily Sun offered its analysis in an editorial last week: Voters smartly concluded that the proposed new definition of signs would only further complicate enforcement. That said, it is not a stretch to conjecture that most voters are fine with the murals at Leavitts Country Bakery and Settlers Green. We suggest the town figure out a way to back off enforcement until a clearer definition can be written, one that accommodates art.'"

___

McCormack reported from Concord, New Hampshire.
Burlingame is getting two new bakeries just a two-minute walk apart from each other. While this might sound like a dream come true for pastry lovers, its instead turned into a feud.

Thats because one of these bakeries is called Backhaus, and the other is called Bakehouse. According to Backhaus founder and co-owner Anne Moser, the similarity of these names is causing confusion.

Backhaus has been operating a San Mateo bakery since 2019 and plans to open its second location at 261 California Drive in Burlingame in August or September. Meanwhile, Bakehouse is affiliated with plant-based restaurant Twelvemonth, which soft-opened in February and is less than 500 feet away, in the former Steelhead Brewing Company building.

While its attached bakery is technically called the Twelvemonth Bakehouse, the shops prominent sign simply reads Bakehouse. Its not yet open to the public but is already supplying Twelvemonth with vegan bread and other baked goods.

Courtesy of Twelvemonth

My cafe team was telling me that people were coming in [to the San Mateo Backhaus bakery] and thinking that thats us, said Moser. Theres just a lot of people voicing that confusion. She said that even some of her suppliers were getting confused.

So in January, Moser reached out to Twelvemonth. In an email obtained by SFGATE, she asked the restaurant to consider changing its signage to Twelvemonth Bakehouse.

She says her email went unanswered. She also said she sent a message to the restaurants Instagram page in March, and that went unanswered, too. Then, just before an article about the two bakeries was published in the San Mateo Daily Journal, Twelvemonths general manager called Moser. They told her they had decided not to make any changes to the sign, Moser said.

That felt very disappointing, because I had reached out in a very cordial manner, Moser said. There were no questions asked, no acknowledgment that some people might be confused.

Alana Ippolito

Twelvemonth owner Bob Trahan, who pivoted to the restaurant industry after a career in tech, told SFGATE that he had tried to call Moser back earlier but hadnt left a voicemail. He said that he personally hadnt heard about any confusion over the names. Trahan explained that hed opted not to change the signage immediately because it could have delayed Twelvemonths opening, which was a cost he said he couldnt afford. The city of Burlingame requires a building permit to install new signs or alter the copy on existing signs.

It's not exactly the price of the signage per se that was discussed, Trahan said. It's also how any delay would prevent our ability to open.  You can imagine if you have like 50 employees, and you're paying them all hourly, to not be able to open for a few weeks, it's a lot more than the cost of the sign.

Frustrated with Twelvemonths response, Moser took to social media, asking the community to share if they had been misled or confused by the Bakehouse signage.

Some people commented on the post to share that they had indeed been confused by the similar names, while others found the distinction clear. Famed chef and cookbook author J. Kenji Lopez-Alt even chimed in. Lopez-Alt was an investor in Backhaus, according to the San Francisco Chronicle. (The Chronicle and SFGATE are both owned by Hearst but have separate newsrooms.) He wrote to Trahan, Youre the one ignoring communication and benefiting off of an existing and beloved small local brand while ignoring the many folks whove commented here and privately about their confusion over your signage.

In a reply to the Instagram post, Trahan wrote, I think it is important everyone knows we do not see this problem at Twelvemonth. Not a single guest has thought they were at Backhaus.

Courtesy of Twelvemonth

Mosers lawyers sent a cease-and-desist letter to Trahan on April 12, which notes that Backhaus LLC owns the trademark for Backhaus and that the English translation of Backhaus is Bake House.

To have this one-two combo punch of a cease-and-desist and this Instagram post  is really I think unfair, but certainly it's very frustrating for me, said Trahan. I really did make a mistake not trying to contact Anne aggressively in January.

However, he said that he intends to clarify the signage and that hes already started the process. Moser shared on Monday that Trahans lawyers had responded to the cease-and-desist letter.

It looks like we have an agreement in principle and the issue is going to be resolved, said Moser via email Monday. I appreciate that we can put this behind us and continue focusing on serving our community.
After 36 years in San Francisco, tiny Mexican takeout joint La Canasta has closed.

The Cow Hollow restaurant has recently faced a series of unfortunate events. Owner Luis Alberto Mier was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic prostate cancer in late 2021, reported Tablehopper, leading him to retire and leave his wife LiLi Mier to run the business on her own. The following year, the couple say they lost their house in a foreclosure fraud case and are now facing eviction after falling behind on rent at the apartment they moved into.

With everything else going on, the Miers also fell behind on rent at La Canasta. They were forced to close the business after their landlord threatened them with eviction, their son Alberto Mier told SFGATE. They had already temporarily closed due to the power being turned off after not being able to pay their electrical bill.

It was an immeasurable case of hopelessness, and finally I just decided to evict them, said landlord Rudy Colombini. Theres a particular point where youve got to call it what it is. Theyre really not able to run the business.

Colombini said that he has already found a new business, a Middle Eastern restaurant, to take over the lease May 1.

Losing La Canasta was the final straw for Alberto, who decided to launch a GoFundMe to help his parents cover their rent and living expenses.

Considering we have had this business for almost 36 years, specifically 32 years at this location with the same landlord, the fact he would threaten to evict my parents is very unfair and outrageous, he wrote on the GoFundMe page.

La Canastas origins date back to the 1980s. Luis, who studied chemistry at San Francisco State University, met LiLi while on vacation in Veracruz, Mexico, where she was helping to run her mothers restaurant. The two moved back to San Francisco in 1981, where they launched a catering business with LiLis family recipes. They opened the first La Canasta brick-and-mortar on Filbert Street in 1987, and five years later, they opened a second location  the one still standing today on Buchanan.

Courtesy of La Canasta

Since Tablehopper and other media outlets shared La Canastas story, GoFundMe donations have soared past their $35,000 goal to more than $60,000 at time of publication.

I did not expect this at all, said Alberto. It definitely made me cry a little bit.

He shared that the apartment eviction situation is now beginning to get under control. His parents were recently able to secure funds to help pay back rent from the Eviction Defense Collaborative, a San Francisco organization that provides legal assistance to low-income tenants facing eviction.

If La Canasta makes a comeback, though, it will probably look different. Alberto said LiLi is interested in starting a ghost kitchen to sell her famous carnitas and cochinita pibil, a Yucatan-style slow-roasted pork, via delivery apps.

Even if she decides to continue in the name of La Canasta, it seems like she wants to either just get a new location and restart our operations using a way more simplified menu, or just run it out of her own kitchen, he said. You know, La Canasta, its very taxing on my mom. Shes almost 70 years old right now.

Alberto said that his parents are very touched by all the support theyve gotten since he posted the GoFundMe, and that its helped them regain some confidence. Donations surpassing the goal will help with legal fees for the apartment eviction case and to launch his mothers ghost kitchen. While Alberto said his mother was shocked by all the donations and kind words, it also makes sense based on the community theyve built at La Canasta over the years.

These are lifelong customers and clients that weve always served, given them free food, weve invited them for Christmas dinners, and helped them out whenever they needed, said Alberto.  Anyone that went to La Canasta would say that it felt like they were part of the family. That was the one thing that my parents always did, was make people feel at home.
With one look at the new Oakland Senor Sisig location near Lake Merritt, its hard not to notice the Filipino American restaurants upward trajectory. An all-glass exterior lets passersby see the Warriors-colored interior design, a giant, roll-up garage door creates an open-air energy perfect for the upcoming summer weather, and a huge mural dedicated to the pop culture and sports heroes of Oakland brings the cantina vibes full circle.

The other Senor Sisig locations, one in the Mission and another at the Ferry Building (as well as their OG roaming food truck), dont have a full liquor license and are often blanketed in the famous San Francisco fog. In the new Oakland digs at 330 17th St., the plan is to create a hangout spot where the community can gather over beer, special cocktails and pulutan  plates that encourage sharing with your group.

This was two years in the making, co-founder Gil Payumo said as he was behind the bar supervising the new bar crew. We cant do the cantina model everywhere as its weather-dependent, but Oakland is the perfect place to set it off.

Samantha Laurey/Special to SFGATE Samantha Laurey/Special to SFGATE Samantha Laurey/Special to SFGATE Samantha Laurey/Samantha Laurey / Special to SFG Interior views of the new Senor Sisig location in Oakland, along with its new lumpia (which is only available at the Oakland location), upper left, and an order of tacos with chicken and pork, lower right. (Samantha Laurey/Special to SFGATE) Interior views of the new Senor Sisig location in Oakland, along with its new lumpia (which is only available at the Oakland location), upper left, and an order of tacos with chicken and pork, lower right. (Samantha Laurey/Special to SFGATE)

If you are unfamiliar with Senor Sisig, heres the backstory: In 2010, Payumo and high school friend Evan Kidera took the Bay Area food truck scene by storm. The duo made Filipino meats, such as chicken sisig, pork tocino and even a tofu sisig, using family recipes, and made it hella San Francisco by putting them in tacos and burritos. As Guy Fieri once said, Its not Asian, its not Mexican, its Senor Sisig.

With the success of the food truck, the high school pals and now business partners were able to open their first brick-and-mortar, on Valencia Street, and are now one of the models of success for how to make it from food truck to an expanding empire ready to make an imprint on the entire state of California. But more on that later.

At the grand opening of the Oakland cantina Friday, I was enticed to try two of the new shareable plates  which are only available in Oakland  the lechon kawali plato and lumpia, the immensely popular Filipino spring roll that people had been clamoring for, according to the cashier who rang me up.

Samantha Laurey/Special to SFGATE

Lechon kawali  a half-pound of uber-crispy pork belly chunks, complete with visible and flavorful layers of fat  is a decadent, time-intensive dish usually reserved for festive meals, so I had to take advantage of it being on the menu. Plated on top of a banana leaf, the pile of pork belly cubes smelled fried and amazing. Encircled by chile-lime-flavored shrimp chips, corn tortillas, sisig barbecue sauce, habanero salsa and pickled red onions, the plate was giving a make-your-own taco vibe. So thats exactly what my co-worker and I did  we dug in.

The skin of the pork belly was indeed bubbly, crackling like a chip with every bite. The saltiness was balanced and gave flavor to the fatty meat just below the skin. While the meat itself was a little leathery, the dish was still tasty and well worth the $22 price point, especially when splitting it with friends. The addition of the pickled red onions and habanero salsa really brought out the flavor of the Filipino pork in a taco format.

The lumpia were a true standout. While the classic Filipino dish has never been on a Senor Sisig menu full-time, Payumo and Kidera went to the best of the best for their new cantina. The team partnered with Alex Retodo of Oaklands the Lumpia Company, which is co-owned by Vallejo-born rapper E-40 and is just a few blocks away from this Senor Sisig outpost, for a special sisig pork lumpia. Their already-tasty sisig, with its sweet-and-savory flavor profile, took on new dimensions in the deep-fried wrapper. It was one of the better bites of lumpia Ive had in recent memory. The dish, which came with about eight rolls piled into the shape of a pyramid and was priced at $15, also had a salsa verde for dipping that rivaled any green salsa from a taqueria.

Samantha Laurey/Special to SFGATE Samantha Laurey/Special to SFGATE Samantha Laurey/Special to SFGATE Samantha Laurey/Special to SFGATE A staff bartender makes an ube Hennchata, upper left, and a tamarind and chile margarita, lower right, at the newest Senor Sisig location on 17th Street in Oakland, Calif., on Friday, April 14, 2023. (Samantha Laurey/Special to SFGATE) A staff bartender makes an ube Hennchata, upper left, and a tamarind and chile margarita, lower right, at the newest Senor Sisig location on 17th Street in Oakland, Calif., on Friday, April 14, 2023. (Samantha Laurey/Special to SFGATE)

Along with the shareable new dishes, this new Oakland outpost is the first to serve beer and specialty cocktails. On the list: tequila and mezcal-focused drinks, such as a tamarind and chile margarita, and one incredibly Yay Area concoction  an ube Hennchata. The company was built on the blending of different cultures, and this fun glass of purple drink is the epitome of the brand  the increasingly popular Filipino purple ube, the creamy Mexican agua fresca and, of course, Hennessy, the party-starter cognac often shouted out by Bay Area rappers.

As I ate and drank beneath the mural by Aaron Kai, which featured Oakland legends Marshawn Lynch, Too Short, Steph Curry, Bruce Lee, Rickey Henderson and more, I couldnt help but think of two things: This new Senor Sisig outpost is hella Oakland, and its refreshing to see how successful two Bay Area born-and-bred food entrepreneurs are succeeding beyond expectations without giving up their roots.

Samantha Laurey/Special to SFGATE

As for the future? Payumo said, We think we can [do a cantina] in Palo Alto and even Southern California.
BALTIMORE As she raises two sons, theres a time Jamyla Bennu and her husband, Pierre, like to keep sacred as a family: doing their hair.

The styling methods range from barber cuts to dreadlocks; as the boys aged, the background noise evolved from The Backyardigans to Saturday Night Live episodes. But they always do it together.

One of my kids would be getting a haircut from dad and one was getting his hair twisted with mom, and wed be watching a movie and stuff, Bennu, 47, said. Thats one thing Im really happy is a part of our family culture: the fact that we do that grooming time together, and its part of our family together time.

Bennus hair care isnt limited to her home in Northeast Baltimore. She runs Oyin Handmade, an artisanal manufacturer of moisture-rich personal care products especially formulated for highly textured hair and dry skin. The products are available at Whole Foods stores throughout Maryland, at independent retailers throughout the country and online.

Founded by Bennu and her husband, Oyin Handmade is Black- and woman-owned. The company makes its products at its new 3,500-square-foot facility in Baltimores Greenmount West. Bennu has four employees and is looking to hire one more.

This year, Bennu is celebrating her companys 20th anniversary. On top of that major milestone, the companys products are now available to patients at all 11 hospitals in the University of Maryland Medical System.

DoRhonja Nichols is the director of critical care and behavioral health services at the University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center. She said one of her colleagues told her about buzz within the health care community surrounding the availability of inclusive hair products for Black patients.

The university medical systems new offerings puts it in league with other hospital systems in states like Iowa, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. The systems drew inspiration from their patients to offer more inclusive products, such as wide-tooth combs, hair bonnets and moisturizers that use products like coconut oil and shea butter.

I immediately thought this is something that would be very good to implement within the University of Maryland Medical System, Nichols said. I also thought it would be really cool if we could partner with a local minority-owned business to be able to provide the product to us.

Nichols said that when she cared for Black patients as a nurse, she noticed the hair care products she had available didnt meet their needs. She added that many patients dont expect to be hospitalized and therefore arent able to plan ahead and bring their preferred products.

Our patients are often in crisis, they really dont feel themselves, they might not feel the best, Nichols said. I want them to know that they are really thought of and its so, its so incredibly important that we are looking through the lens of equity, diversity and inclusion in everything that we do regarding patient care.

Honey wash shampoo, honey hemp conditioner and hair dew leave-in conditioner are all products available to patients in the University of Maryland hospitals, though Nichols said she wasnt sure if all locations had rolled out the products yet. Patients also will be able to access wider tooth combs, hair picks and detangling brushes.

While Black patients make up 49% of the patients in the University of Maryland Medical System, the number varies by hospital. Because hospitals will order by need and only recently began making the products available, estimates for how much will be spent were not available.

With Bennus sons now in junior high and high school, she sees a drastically different attitude towards natural hair than she experienced.

When I was growing up [in the Mid-Hudson Valley, New York], you wore your hair naturally when you were a kid and then eventually you would relax it or begin to straighten it because that was kind of like what grown up women did, Bennu said. Even though my home had an emphasis on natural hair and understanding the beauty, like there was no cultural support for the idea of wearing my hair in its natural state.

Bennu said she started straightening her hair in high school because she was tired of being mocked and derided. When she got to Spelman College in Atlanta, a historically Black womens liberal arts college where she studied philosophy and sociology, she finally saw other Black women wearing natural hairstyles, which inspired her to start experimenting with her own hair.

Bennu then started making hair products for her own use, a hobby that evolved into Oyin Handmade. Bennu would experiment with her hair and share the results online. After researching ingredients, she would start with a cheap conditioner and add nutrients, such as olive oils, sweet almond oil and honey.

While options may have been limited, there were some brands offering products for natural hair decades ago such as SheaMoisture and Carols Daughter. Still, at the time Bennu started her company, natural hairstyles were often considered unprofessional and inappropriate, she said.

Its something that we are really proud of as a company, as well as me personally, to have been a part of that kind of cultural movement in its early stages because it is a cultural movement that has literally shifted industries, Bennu said.

According to a 2022 report on Black hair care released by the research firm Mintel, the movement toward natural hairstyles also was motivated by the pandemic, which in its early days encouraged consumers to use less products as they spent more time at home. The trend toward minimalism and efficiency is expected to continue even as consumers return to their pre-pandemic lifestyles.

The fact that were still here, the fact that were still able to do this, were still creating relationships through our products, and were still a part of peoples healthy hair journey  that in and of itself makes me feel so fulfilled, Bennu said.

2023 Baltimore Sun. Visit baltimoresun.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Dear EarthTalk: How do I figure out how many solar panels I would need on my two-story, 2,500-square-foot house to meet my electricity consumption needs?

 Paul O., Seattle

While everyones situation is different, a typical 2,500-square-foot American home would require a solar panel array that can output 6 to 10 kilowatts of power. Assuming the panels have a wattage of 320 watts each, a 6-kilowatt system would require around 19 solar panels, while a 10-kilowatt system would need as many as 31 panels up top to supply 100% of the typical electricity needs for a home this size. However, the exact number of panels youll need varies depending on factors including where you live, your roofs orientation and shading, the type of solar panels you choose and your average monthly electricity usage.

To get a more accurate estimate tailored to your exact situation, check out Googles Project Sunroof, a free website that takes your address and analyzes your roof shape and local weather patterns to create a personalized solar plan. You can adjust your electric bill to fine-tune your savings estimate and the recommended number of solar panels for your home, and then even compare loan, lease and purchase options for your solar panels based on your results. (In some cases, based on electrical costs in your region and the amount of sunlight your house will get, Project Sunroofs algorithm might suggest not going solar.)

Once you have an estimate of the number of panels you need, you can start shopping for solar panels. A number of different types of solar panels are on the market, so its important to do your research and compare prices before making a purchase. You should also make sure that the solar panels you choose are compatible with your roof and that they have a warranty.

Also, traditional photovoltaic panels arent the only option anymore. Thin-film solar cells are a newer technology that can be incorporated into roofing materials or other surfaces, blending into the roofline unobtrusively. They are made of lightweight, flexible materials and can be easier to install than traditional photovoltaic panels. And if you need to replace an old roof or are building a new house, consider using solar roof shingles, which not only protect your home from the elements but generate electricity in the process without the need for bulky panels on top of them. These newer technologies tend to be 15-20% more expensive than traditional photovoltaic panels but may be right for you depending on your situation.

And remember that the federal government offers a tax credit on 30% of the cost of your new solar system as long as its installed by the end of 2032. You can also look for additional local and/or state incentives for going solar via the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency, a free online resource that lists all kinds of renewable energy incentives coast to coast.

Installing solar panels is a big decision, but it can be a great way to save money on your electricity bills and reduce your environmental impact. If youre thinking about going solar, be sure to do your research and get multiple estimates before making a purchase.

2023 Emagazine.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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BOISE, Idaho (AP)  Prosecutors say the mother charged in a triple murder case took part in a complex conspiracy that included unusual spiritual beliefs and efforts to kill those who stood in the way of her goals. Here, a look at the defendants and the first witnesses in the trial of Lori Vallow Daybell:

THE DEFENDANT:

Lori Vallow Daybell, 49, is a beautician by trade, a mother of three, and a wife  five times over. Shes pleaded not guilty to murder, conspiracy and grand theft charges in the deaths of her two youngest kids and her new husbands previous wife.

Vallow Daybells first marriage, to a high school sweetheart when she was just 19, ended quickly. She married again in her early 20s, and had a son named Colby before divorcing. In 2001, Vallow Daybell married again, this time to a man named Joseph Ryan. The couple had a baby girl named Tylee in 2002, but divorced just a few years later. Ryan later died in his home of a suspected heart attack.

Charles Vallow, a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, entered the picture several months later. Vallow Daybell joined the LDS church and the pair married in 2006. They later adopted Joshua Jaxon JJ Vallow.

But by 2019, that marriage had also soured. Charles Vallow filed for divorce, contending in court papers that Vallow Daybell also believed herself to be a deity tasked with helping to usher in the Biblical apocalypse.

The two were estranged but still married when Vallow Daybells brother, Alex Cox, shot and killed Charles Vallow outside his Phoenix suburban home.

Cox told police the shooting was in self defense, and was never charged in the case. Shortly after Charles death, Vallow Daybell moved to eastern Idaho with JJ, Tylee and her brother Cox.

Chad Daybell became her fifth husband on November 5, 2019  roughly two weeks after his previous wife Tammy Daybell died under suspicious circumstances.

Meanwhile, JJ and Tylee were missing. They were last seen in September, and they were declared missing in November after extended family urged police to investigate. Their bodies were found the following year buried in Chad Daybells yard.

CHAD DAYBELL:

Daybell, 54, was also a member of the LDS church and a self-published author who wrote doomsday-focused fiction loosely based on church teachings. He married Tammy Daybell in 1990, and they had five kids.

Prosecutors say he met Vallow Daybell at a conference in Utah in 2018. The two purportedly felt an instant connection and claimed they had been married to each other in a past life, according to police records. Friends of the couple told investigators that the pair shared the same unusual beliefs, including that they could tell if someone had been taken over by an evil spirit.

Chad and Lori led a group of friends in trying to cast out the supposed evil spirits by praying and doing energy work, prosecutors said. Friends told police that in some cases they determined a person had become a zombie, fully controlled by the evil spirit. Vallow Daybell claimed the only way to get rid of a zombie was to destroy the persons body, prosecutors say, and one friend told police she heard Vallow Daybell call the children zombies before they disappeared.

Tammy Daybell was initially described as having died in her sleep of natural causes. But an autopsy showed she was asphyxiated to death, Prosecutor Lindsey Blake told jurors on Monday.

Chad Daybell is also charged in the triple murder case. Like Vallow Daybell, he has pleaded not guilty to all the charges. He is expected to stand trial several months from now.

COLBY RYAN:

Ryan, 27, is Vallow Daybell's only living child. Though he was born of Vallow Daybell's second marriage, when his mother remarried Colby took Joe Ryan's last name.

Colby Ryan, who testified that he had a happy childhood, started crying on the stand when prosecutors showed him photos of Tylee and JJ, and talked about how Tylee was receiving social security benefits because her biological father Joe Ryan died in 2018. Sometimes she would send money to Colby Ryan through a phone app, and sometimes his mom would put money into Tylee's account to send to him, he said.

After Ryan moved out of the family home, he continued to exchange texts with Tylee. But shortly after what would have been Tylee's 17th birthday in September of 2019, the tone and syntax of those texts changed. Tylee had last been seen alive a few weeks earlier, but at the time Ryan didn't know she was missing.

The occasional money transfers continued too, though through a different phone app under his mother's name, he said.

After his siblings' bodies were found, Ryan confronted his mother in an emotional recorded phone call that was played for jurors.

The call starts with Ryan asking Vallow Daybell if she thought she could keep hiding from him.

I'm not hiding, why would you think I'm hiding?" she responds.

Probably because you murdered my siblings! Maybe you should understand," Ryan continued, before his mother interrupted:

I didn't. I'm sorry you feel that way, she said.

KAY WOODCOCK:

Woodcock is JJs grandmother, and she convinced Idaho police to check up on JJ after her normally regular phone calls and visits with the boy dried up. That welfare check in November of 2019 revealed that both kids were missing. JJs father, Charles Vallow, is actually Woodcocks brother: He adopted JJ as a baby because JJs biological parents  including Woodcocks son  were unable to care for the child.

Woodcock was the first witness in the trial. She told jurors that JJ was born with some disabilities and was diagnosed with autism. After Charles died, Woodcock feared Vallow Daybell no longer wanted the boy. She was also worried that JJ may had witnessed his fathers death.

We were so worried about JJ, and did he see what happened to his dad, Woodcock told jurors.
Syrias chief diplomat is on a three-day official visit to Tunisia meant to restore diplomatic relations that have been cut off between the countries since 2012 following the outbreak of the Syrian civil war.

Syrian Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad had a meeting with Tunisian counterpart Nabil Ammar shortly after his arrival on Monday evening. No details were disclosed about the talks and Mekdads schedule for Tuesday or Wednesday.

The visit is meant to help restore bilateral relations, the Tunisian Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.

Earlier this month, Tunisian President Kais Saied ordered the appointment of an ambassador to the Syrian capital, Damascus. It followed the decision of the Syrian government to reopen its embassy in Tunis and appoint an ambassador.

In February, Saied had announced his decision to raise the level of Tunisian diplomatic representation in Damascus, while stressing that the crisis facing Assad's government was an internal matter that concerns only the Syrian people." The move was made at the same time Tunisia was sending urgent humanitarian aid to Syria following the earthquake that killed tens of thousands in the country and neighboring Turkey.

Mekdad's visit to Tunisia is the second leg of a trip that began in Algeria, one of the few Arab countries that maintained diplomatic relations during Syria's civil war.

Last week, Mekdad also traveled to Saudi Arabia. Both countries announced they were moving toward reopening embassies and resuming flights for the first time in more than a decade.

Syria was widely shunned by Arab governments over Assads crackdown on protesters in 2011 at the outbreak of the Syrian civil war. The breakdown in relations culminated in Syria being ousted from the Arab League.

However, in recent years, as Assad consolidated control over most of the country, Syrias neighbors have begun to take steps toward rapprochement.

*This story was edited by Ahram Online

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Prosecutors filed charges Monday against an 85-year-old homeowner accused of shooting a Missouri teenager who knocked on the wrong door while trying to pick up his siblings.

The Clay County Prosecutor's Office charged Andrew Lester with first-degree assault and armed criminal action in the shooting of 16-year-old Ralph Yarl.

Yarl was shot late on the evening of April 13 at a home in Kansas City.

Yarl was picking up his siblings, but he ended up on a different street.

Police said Yarl was shot after he knocked on the homes door.

In announcing his decision to file charges, Clay County Prosecutor Zachary Thompson said there was a "racial component to the case."

Officers arrived at the address at around 9:52 p.m., while Yarl was found in front of a nearby home.

Officers were contacted by someone who called 911 and said they believed the person who shot was at a nearby address. Officers approached and observed the front storm door glass shattered with Lester standing inside.

Lester provided written consent to search his residence.

An officer observed the front storm glass door broken with blood on the front porch. The officer also observed blood on the driveway, cameras on the south and east side of the residence, and blood in the street in front of a nearby house.



Video below: Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas addresses shooting of teenager Ralph Yarl

A witness said they heard an unknown vehicle pull into the driveway of Lester's address. The witness "thought it was odd for their elderly neighbor to have a visitor this late at night," according to the statement.

The witness stated a short time later they heard "two to three gunshots" from Lester's known address.

The witness also heard Yarl screaming that he had been shot.

A CSI team located a Smith and Wesson .32 caliber revolver with two spent shell casings still in the cylinder along with live rounds in the chamber.

Officers took a hard drive from Lester's home to preserve video, but the video system was "no longer functional."

Police said Lester stated he picked up his gun before responding to the door and told authorities he believed someone was attempting to break inside his house.

He said he shot twice within seconds of opening the door and no words were exchanged.

Lester said it was "the last thing he wanted to do" but he was "scared to death" because of Yarl's size and his age.

A probable cause filed by police states Lester believes he was protecting himself, but later expressed concern for the victim.

Lester was transported to the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department's East Patrol. He was booked there, photographed and fingerprinted for charges of aggravated assault.

"Upon consulting the Clay County Prosecutor in regard, they advised to release Lester pending further investigation," the probable cause reads.

Yarl told authorities the man who lived at the residence said, "Don't come around here." Yarl went to multiple homes asking for assistance and telling people to call police.

The probable cause statement says Yarl suffered a gunshot wound in the left forehead and right arm.
With recreational cannabis use now legal for adults, many law enforcement agencies in southwestern Connecticut are no longer bringing pot-detecting police dogs to sniff out drugs around vehicles during car stops, officials said.

In Monroe, the police department decided not to replace a retired police dog after the legalization of cannabis reduced its role in vehicle searches. Meanwhile, Stratford police expect to replace its two K9 dogs with those specializing in searching for missing people once they retire, spokesman Capt. Frank Eannotti said.

The two dogs, a Belgian malinois and a German shepherd, are trained to sniff out marijuana and narcotics, including heroin and cocaine.

Connecticut law also still prohibits selling marijuana without a license. Still, Stratford police are no longer deploying its K9s for drug searches, Eannotti said.

Theres lines to be crossed now. So you gotta watch out for that, he said.

Police dogs are typically trained to sniff out multiple drugs, but they are unable to change how they alert handlers based on what they smell, officers said.

Its not like if he puts his left paw its cocaine, if he puts his right paw its marijuana, said Lt. Pat Lynch, who oversees Ansonia's police patrol officers.

Without that distinction, police would not have enough probable cause to search a vehicle for drugs even if a K9 alerts its handler, he said.

It basically goes back to the Constitution and Fourth Amendment, said Lynch, referring to the constitutional protection against unreasonable searches and seizures. The dog just indicates saying, OK, theres drugs. I dont know what kind of drugs there are.

To adapt to the change, Ansonia police are no longer routinely bringing its German shepherd around a vehicle while they check a drivers license and registration. But they would still use the dog for vehicle or home searches with a warrant, Lynch said.

In addition, Ansonia police are still deploying the K9 to recover evidence like a suspects handgun and use its sense of smell to track wanted and missing persons.

Since Ansonia has a small law enforcement agency, its K9 handler also answers calls and makes car stops, bringing the dog with him.

If he sees a motor vehicle violation, hell stop it. If hes on patrol with another officer who stops the car and hes the closest car, hell go and hell provide a backup to the officer that makes a stop, Lynch said.

Two of Westport police's dogs, a Belgian malinois and a Dutch Shepherd-crossbreed, are drug-detecting dogs trained in sniffing out marijuana and are no longer walked by handlers around cars during a stop, said spokesman Lt. Eric Woods. But if police spot possible illicit drugs or paraphernalia inside a vehicle, they would use the dogs to search it, Woods said.

Lets say the car that was stopped, the cop sees white powder, or sees cocaine, or sees heroin needles or sees something else that would indicate that theres drugs in the car that is not marijuana, Woods said.

But another younger, drug sniffing Belgian malinois isnt trained to detect marijuana. Unlike the older K9s, Westport police still use this dog to sniff around a vehicle and consider its alert enough probable cause to conduct a search.

I think its gonna come down to, as dogs get retired, and they start training new officers and handlers, you just dont introduce marijuana into the mix, Woods said.

In Bridgeport, three officers are training to become K9 handlers. The dogs they will oversee won't be trained in sniffing out drugs, but they are hoping to have them "cross-trained" to detect narcotics in the future, said Lt. William Simpson, who oversees Bridgeport police's K9 handlers.

How long do we want to take a random K9 off the road to get that training? So really its gonna boil down to manpower issues," Simpson said.

Along with drug dogs, some police departments also have K9s specialized in bomb-sniffing and emotional support. Simpson said he hopes the department will replace its retiring explosives-detecting dog, but added they also help protect the city's ferry terminal and other critical infrastructure from bomb threats. Simpson also said Bridgeport police is considering taking in an emotional support dog.

But the department's ability to take in the dogs would be dependent on whether it can resolve its manpower shortages, he said.

While the city is making efforts to fill vacancies, the mayor's budget calls for fewer officers in the department overall.
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EAST HAVEN  For 47 years, Maryann Newsom Collette has been searching for her sister, Patricia Meleady Newsom, after she vanished without a trace in the early 1970s, having run away from her New York boarding school.

She started a Facebook group, appeared on a true crime podcast and allowed investigators to swab her DNA, hoping to track her sister down.

Then on a recent day, the detective whod taken her DNA sample showed up at Collettes home in northeastern Tennessee. She assumed he was there to take another sample.

Instead, they sat in his car and the detective put her on the phone. On the line was Joseph Murgo, a police captain in East Haven, Conn.

After nearly half a century, investigators in East Haven and a private forensic genealogy company connected the dots between Collettes DNA sample and the body of a young woman found murdered in 1975.

During a news conference on Monday, Collette described the "tremendous" relief she felt upon learning her sister had been found.

"I always knew in my heart that she was gone, I always knew," she told members of the media assembled at the East Haven Police Department.

Still, she encouraged other families of people who have gone missing not to give up hope and to keep searching, no matter what other people might say. "Get your information out there, don't just sit on the couch, don't just cry," she said.

"This is the ending I want for you; this is my best-case scenario," she added.

After a challenging search for Newsom's grave, which is at an unmarked location in a disused Hamden cemetery, police exhumed her body for DNA samples last year and then waited for the test results.

Murgo, who also serves as a spokesperson for the department and helped revitalize the homicide investigation in recent years, said Monday that police "finally got the call wed been waiting for last week.

Today, Im proud to announce that we can finally give Jane Doe her name back," Murgo said. As he said Newsom's name, police pulled back a cover that had been placed over a presentation board. On the left was an artist's penciled sketch of the woman whose body was discovered in 1975, and on the right was a photograph of Newsom.

Murgo said Newsom was born in Idaho Falls, Idaho, on June 20, 1957, and moved to the east coast in the late 1960s.

In 1972, Newsom attended a boarding school in the Monticello, N.Y. area, Murgo said. She ran away with a friend, intending to go to Maine, and may have hitch-hiked.

She was never heard from or seen again, Murgo said.

Investigators with Identifinders International, a private forensic genetic genealogy company, were able to identify Newsom using a sample of her DNA that was uploaded to GEDMatch. The ancestry service made headlines in 2018 after investigators used the service as part of the investigation that tracked down the "Golden State Killer."

With the task of identifying Patricia behind us, we can now focus on the homicide investigation, Murgo added, speaking at a news conference Monday afternoon.

Murgo said its unclear whether Newsom ever made it to Maine. Police now want to identify the school Newsom attended in Sullivan County, N.Y., as well as the friend she ran off with.

There are thousands of Jane and John Doe cases around the country, even more around the world, Murgo said. With that comes family members searching for answers and justice for the ones they love. This case is a perfect example of what can be achieved if you never lose hope and keep pushing.

A trucker discovered Newsom's body bound, gagged and wrapped in a tarp off Frontage Road on a rainy August day in 1975. An autopsy determined she died by asphyxiation, according to Murgo.

Early efforts to determine Newsoms identity failed. Police shared her fingerprints with other law enforcement agencies and her dental records with dental associations, Murgo said, but they never got a break in the case.

In recent years, police saw advances in DNA technology as a promising way to move the case forward. Murgo and Capt. David Emerman sent out samples from the victims pubic bone for testing.

At first, their attempts went nowhere. Pubic bones represent one of the worst sources of DNA samples, and as East Haven did not have anything else in evidence, Murgo and Emerman began exploring another possibility: exhumation.

Finding Newsoms exact burial spot required its own detective work. Located in Hamdens State Street Cemetery, her grave is unmarked, and police ran into difficulties finding accurate burial records for Hamdens State Street Cemetery, which is no longer in use.

With the help of a group of locals who had been independently working the case, authorities managed to connect with the cemetery's former caretaker. Last spring, he helped them identify the graves approximate location.

After the East Haven Police Department disinterred the wrong casket during its first attempt to exhume Newsom, the agency had better luck on its second attempt, obtaining the necessary DNA samples in July.
EAST LANSING, Mich. (AP)  Officials at Michigan State University have picked a security firm to review the schools response to a mass shooting earlier this year.

Anthony McRae shot eight students on campus on Feb. 13. Three of the students died. McRae later killed himself off campus as police approached.
NEW HAVEN  Video footage released Monday shows police officers ramming the door to the wrong apartment while executing a search warrant in connection with an investigation into child sex abuse material.

The three videos, totaling more than 24 minutes of body camera footage, show New Haven police officers storming into a womans apartment and placing her in handcuffs around 6 a.m. on April 6. They then realized it was not the home of Tim Yergeau, the subject of the investigation.

Police Chief Karl Jacobson said he has opened an Internal Affairs investigation into the botched raid, as well as into the death of Yergeau, a Long Wharf Theatre employee who died by suicide inside his apartment five days later.

New Haven police also released a redacted copy of the search warrant affidavit for Yergeau's apartment. The document states how investigators believed Yergeau exchanged videos of child sex abuse with users in the Middle East through Facebook.

The search warrant affidavit lists Yergeau's correct apartment number. However, Jacobson said Monday that though there's "no excuse that we hit the wrong door," the building was "very, very confusing."

In the videos, one lieutenant told Yergeau's neighbor, Stacey Wezenter, that once he saw her 4-year-old son's toys, he knew, "We're not in the right apartment," he said.

Wezenter on Monday filed a federal lawsuit, alleging officers conducted an unlawful search and seizure of her home. She also alleges they were negligent and violated her rights, according to the complaint.

The lawsuit names Justin Marshall, New Haven Mayor Justin Elicker, Jacobson, the city of New Haven and New Haven police officers "FNU" and "LNU" as defendants.

The first video shows an officer walking along the sidewalk at 5:53 a.m. Passing the first floor, a pediatric dentists office, the officers walked up the stairs to the third floor. At least five officers can be seen on the video standing in the stairwell.

Ready? one officer asked, according to the video.

Ready, another responded.

An officer then loudly pounded on the door, shaking bells hung by a red ribbon on the doorknob, and announced they were police and have a search warrant, the videos show.

He then took a few steps back, and five seconds later, another officer used a battering ram to burst through the door, the footage shows. Once inside, the officer screamed again, identifying himself as police and saying they had a search warrant while drawing his handgun, the video shows.

Whats wrong? a woman can be heard saying off camera.

In another clip, showing the time at 5:55 a.m., an officer can be heard telling Wezenter they had a search warrant as he put handcuffs on her, the footage shows.

For what? she said.

Well explain everything, he responded.

Wezenter can be heard telling the officer her son was in one of the rooms, the footage shows. The officer told her to take a deep breath as he locked the handcuffs.

Whats happening, Wezenter asked, sniffling and her voice breaking, according to the footage. I have work in the morning. My son has school. Whats happening? Can you please just explain?

An officer eventually removed the handcuffs and one asked Wezenter where Yergeau lived, according to the footage.

Wezenter informed them that he lived downstairs on the second floor.

In another clip, also showing the time at 5:55 a.m., an officer can be seen kicking into a young woman's room. Wezenters 20-year-old daughter raised her hands from her bed, asking what was happening and police informed her of the search warrant. They asked if there was anyone else inside the room with her.

No, no, no, no, no, she said. Why? Why?

Wheres Tim? another officer asked.

Who? she asked. Who the hell is Tim?

Tim, he said. Yergeau. Tim.

Oh, the neighbor downstairs? she asked.

So, hes downstairs? the officer replied.

No, I do not know where he is, she said.

All right, he said and walked out of the room. The officer wearing the camera stayed in the room, telling her theyll explain later and asked her to stay off her phone, the video shows.

Another clip starting at 6:05 a.m. shows officers talking to an uncuffed Wezenter. The video, muted for the first 30 seconds, shows officers asking Wezenter and her daughter if theyre all right.

Again, like we said, were sorry we scared you so early, one man, who identified himself as a lieutenant with the Special Victims Unit, can be heard saying.

Later in the video, officers discussed how they confused the apartment for Yergeau's unit. The lieutenant told her they thought the business on the ground floor made Yergeaus apartment the first floor, not the second floor.

A lot of people get confused, Wezenter said, according to the video.

Again, not OK for us to bang on your door at 5 oclock in the morning, the lieutenant said, and noted hell leave his information with Wezenter. If you need anything, you call me. Were going to get this fixed for you and, again, Im sorry. It was probably terrifying for you.

"We thought this was the second floor. It's (the search warrant) obviously not for your apartment," the lieutenant later explained in the video. "The research we've done, he lives by himself. So, we came in here and saw your young son and the toys and it's like, 'we're not in the right apartment.'"
NEW LONDON  Police have released the name of a teenager who died suddenly over the weekend and said two other people who were injured during the same incident suffered stab wounds.

New London Police Capt. Matthew Galante identified the 17-year-old who died as Dnazia Uzzle, of Groton. Police did not release information about how she died, saying a ruling on the cause and manner of her death is pending from the state Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.
In the early months of 2021, heavy snow blanketed the city of Philadelphia.

Justin Stroh and his wife, Bess, both in their 60s, had been taking turns shoveling the snow in front of their suburban home. On a Monday in February, the snow was falling fast and hard, dumping 1 to 2 inches an hour before mixing with rain. The combination made it too heavy to clear. The Strohs considered taking a long walk with Michael, their Labrador mix, but decided it was too slick to walk safely.

Bess settled in to work in a back bedroom, where she'd created a makeshift office during the pandemic. But Justin suddenly decided he needed to tackle the sidewalk. He stepped out without telling his wife. He doesn't know why, because he has no memory of that day  or the days and weeks that followed.

Justin collapsed in front of their home, far from where Bess could've seen or heard him. He was lying there, lifeless, when Jennifer Kennedy drove by on her way to pick up her son from school.

"I happened to see in my peripheral vision that there was a guy lying in the snow," Kennedy said. She pulled her car over, climbed around a snowbank and called out to him. Getting no response, she called 911 and began CPR. Having been trained as a cardiac surgical nurse, she knew exactly what to do.

Kennedy's efforts were the first in a series of events that likely saved Justin's life  and his brain function.

Nine out of 10 people who go into cardiac arrest outside a hospital die. Many of those who are resuscitated die before being discharged from the hospital due to injuries to their brain and vital organs from lack of oxygen when their heart stopped. But those who get CPR from a bystander have double the chance of survival.

There are many reasons people can go into cardiac arrest. Heart attacks  more common during periods of heavy snowfall, when shoveling places extra stress on the heart  are one of them. It was a heart attack, stemming from a blocked artery, that caused Justin's cardiac arrest.

Emergency medical professionals restored Justin's heartbeat. However, he spent about three months in the hospital, an odyssey that included a month spent in a medically induced coma and a bout with pneumonia resulting from the insertion of a breathing tube during his ambulance ride. Along the way, kidney problems prompted temporary dialysis.

Just as he was starting to recover, he came down with COVID-19. Until this time, Bess had stayed by his side in the ICU, reading to her husband, playing music and talking to him. So it was no surprise that when he got COVID-19, she did, too.

Another challenge Justin overcame was some temporary cognitive issues. Once conscious again, he had to relearn how to speak. And how to walk. He also has some memory loss. The last thing he remembers is being at a museum in New York with his daughter, something that happened two weeks before his collapse.

"I look normal, but I still suffer from a few things," he said. "I am incredibly easily winded. I can't do very much."

What he can do is walk 2 miles on a treadmill, lift some weights and spend 10 minutes on the elliptical machine, but it exhausts him. He can speak, but he sometimes struggles to find the right words. He had to retire from his job as a research scientist. He now spends his time trying to piece his story together and look for ways to turn what happened to him into something positive, like getting involved with the American Heart Association.

He remains eternally grateful for the lifesaving help he received from Kennedy, the woman who gave him CPR, and the medical professionals who never gave up on him. The list includes a speech therapist and a team of respiratory specialists.

"He worked with some really extraordinary people," Bess said. "They invested in him and believed in him. That makes a huge difference."

Justin thinks of these people often, especially Kennedy. While he has no memory of what she did for him, he knows he wouldn't be alive without her and has called to tell her so. He sends her a box of Christmas cookies every year. Kennedy, who added the Strohs to her Christmas card list, said the cookies make her smile.

Not half as wide as Justin.

Stories From the Heart chronicles the inspiring journeys of heart disease and stroke survivors, caregivers and advocates.

Copyright is owned or held by the American Heart Association, Inc., and all rights are reserved. Permission is granted, at no cost and without need for further request, for individuals, media outlets, and non-commercial education and awareness efforts to link to, quote, excerpt from or reprint these stories in any medium as long as no text is altered and proper attribution is made to American Heart Association News.

Other uses, including educational products or services sold for profit, must comply with the American Heart Associations Copyright Permission Guidelines. See full terms of use. These stories may not be used to promote or endorse a commercial product or service.

HEALTH CARE DISCLAIMER: This site and its services do not constitute the practice of medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always talk to your health care provider for diagnosis and treatment, including your specific medical needs. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem or condition, please contact a qualified health care professional immediately. If you are in the United States and experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or call for emergency medical help immediately.
Tunisian authorities closed the offices of Islamist-inspired opposition party Ennahdha on Tuesday, a day after arresting its leader Rached Ghannouchi, a senior party official said.

"A police unit showed up at the party's main headquarters (in Tunis) and ordered everyone there to leave before closing it," Riadh Chaibi said.

"The police also closed the other offices of the party elsewhere in the country and prohibited any meeting in these premises," he told AFP.

The move came after Ennahdha's veteran leader Ghannouchi was arrested at his home in the capital Tunis, the latest in a string of opposition figures held.

Ennahdha was the largest party in Tunisia's parliament before President Kais Saied dissolved the chamber in July 2021.

Ennahdha vice-president Mondher Lounissi told a news conference late Monday that Ghannouchi had been taken to a police barracks for questioning and that his lawyers had not been allowed to attend.

His arrest came after media reports in which he allegedly said Tunisia would be threatened with "civil war" if political Islam, from which his party originated, were eradicated there.

A source at the interior ministry quoted by Tunisian media confirmed that Ghannouchi's arrest was linked to these statements.

Since early February, authorities in the North African country have arrested more than 20 political opponents and personalities.

They have included politicians, former ministers, businessmen, trade unionists and the owner of Tunisia's most popular radio station, Mosaique FM.

Saied, 65, claims those detained were terrorists adding that they posed a threat to state security.

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MORROW COVE, Calif.  For nearly three decades, the navy-and-gold Training Ship Golden Bear has plied oceans around the globe for California State Universitys Maritime Academy, providing a unique classroom for students training to be leaders in the seafaring industry.

In recent years, Cal Maritime students and employees reported accusations of rape, sexual assault and sexual harassment aboard the 500-foot ship to officials at the Vallejo campus.

Interviews and internal campus records reviewed by the Los Angeles Times showed the allegations included two rapes reported in 2019, a sexual assault in 2022 and accusations that a captain sexually harassed women and made disparaging remarks about the LGBTQ community and women during a 2021 training cruise.

The school did not report those allegations to federal maritime authorities and has not followed consistent procedures for handling wrongdoing on the vessel, a Times investigation has found.

Cal Maritime acknowledged it did not report the allegations to the U.S. Maritime Administration, which owns the vessel. The federal agency said such reports are required under a long-standing agreement allowing the campus to use the training ship.

The agreement requires the campus to promptly report alleged violations of state, federal and international laws, statutes or regulations and provide complete written details of the occurrence. That includes sexual harassment, sexual assault and retaliation, a spokesman for the Maritime Administration said in statements to The Times.

Campus officials said they believe they complied with the provisions, noting they contain no language that directly addresses reporting obligations for sexual assault and sexual harassment ... incidents.

The maritime agency acknowledged that it has never conducted a compliance review to determine whether sexual misconduct cases at Cal Maritime are being properly handled by the campus.

Following inquiries by The Times, presidents from Cal Maritime and other state maritime academies are moving to strengthen protocols for reporting sexual misconduct on their U.S.-owned training vessels.

The new details come amid heightened scrutiny of alleged misconduct at the school on the San Francisco Bay after a Times report in December exposed decades-long claims of sexual assault and sexual harassment, homophobia, transphobia and racism on campus and during training cruises.

The Maritime Administration said it was concerned about accusations raised in The Times report. The agency said its civil rights office will review the schools handling of sexual misconduct and retaliation complaints and work with the campus to address any problems. The review will also determine whether the campus violated the terms of the agreement.

Failure to abide by the agreement, the agency said, could jeopardize funding it provides to the small campus, which has totaled more than $10 million in the last five years, and prompt an investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice.

The senior Democrat on a congressional subcommittee overseeing maritime operations said in a statement that he was deeply troubled to learn of Cal Maritimes failure to report instances of sexual assault, harassment, and retaliation.

Their top priority must be uprooting any culture that turns a blind eye to sexual misconduct, Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Santa Barbara) said in response to The Times findings.

The campus said President Thomas A. Cropper was unavailable for interviews.

In a statement, Cropper said that the school has been a leader in addressing sexual misconduct in the maritime industry and that he recently was in Washington meeting with federal officials and leaders from other state maritime academies to develop improved reporting protocols for sexual harassment and sexual assault.

The retired rear admiral added that the campus is working with the Maritime Administration on a new agreement that will clarify language about reporting sexual misconduct.

Cal Maritime believes it has met every reporting obligation under federal law and our agreement with [the Maritime Administration], said Cropper, who is stepping down in August.

In 2021 and 2022, the campus said it reported two incidents of wrongdoing, while the Maritime Administration said it received three reports. Neither the campus nor the agency could account for the discrepancy.

Cal State Channel Islands investigated a top administrator for allegations of sexual harassment.

Cal Maritime did not provide direct answers to detailed and repeated questions from The Times about the recent misconduct allegations and vaguely described accusations of rape and sexual assault aboard the ship as sexual activity without affirmative consent.

The campus said it took appropriate action in each and every one of these incidents and launched investigations per the CSU nondiscrimination policy, which prohibits sexual harassment, sexual misconduct, retaliation and other wrongdoing. The school said it reported the incidents to the U.S. Department of Education as required by law.

A Times review of internal campus records, including sexual misconduct investigations, emails and shipboard captain reports, found significant disparities in how officials handled misconduct accusations aboard the Golden Bear:

After a death threat last year against a transgender officer, the captain and another top officer said there was a lack of written protocols for conducting investigations on the ship and began their own inquiry after complaints that the threat had created a hostile environment for LGBTQ crew members.

When vandalism and homophobic graffiti were discovered in 2021, Cropper ordered a senior administrator to rendezvous with the vessel to investigate. During the inquiry, according to internal records, multiple people accused the captain of sexual harassment and making disparaging remarks. The campus did not formally investigate those accusations until a separate complaint was filed months later, the records show.

And after two women reported in 2019 and 2022 that they were raped and otherwise sexually assaulted by male classmates while the Golden Bear was docked on campus, the school hired an outside firm to investigate the allegations.



Nestled along a tree-lined cove overlooking the Carquinez Bridge, the campus trains cadets to become U.S. Merchant Marine officers. About 800 students attend the school, one of seven maritime academies in the United States and the only one of its kind on the West Coast.

Federal reporting requirements are important, maritime law experts say, because they can alert officials to systemic problems and provide additional oversight to protect employees and cadets, as students at Cal Maritime are called.

They should be leading the way in responding to this ... rather than trying to explain why they are not doing that, said Edward M. Bull III, an Oakland attorney who specializes in maritime law.

Cadets who spoke to The Times said they didnt know that the university was required to report allegations of sexual misconduct to federal maritime officials, nor did they realize that students could do the same. They said a broader awareness and practice of the policy might help deter predatory behavior.

Concerns about the universitys response to allegations of wrongdoing aboard the training ship date back decades.

During a 1990 hearing in the California Legislature, lawmakers criticized Cal Maritime leadership for failing to protect students after the Maritime Administration investigated claims of sexual misconduct and racial discrimination aboard its training ship at the time.

A state senator said the university would not be allowed to return to business as usual. The president at the time announced his retirement shortly after and was replaced by the first woman to head the academy.

Carbajal, who recently told the California State University chancellor in a letter that the pervasive problems at Cal Maritime were inexcusable, said that weeding out sexual misconduct is more important than ever as the country struggles to recruit mariners, who are vital to the supply chain.

A culture that protects our mariners starts with our training pipeline  at institutions like Cal Maritime, he said.

Cal Maritime is one of 23 campuses within the CSU  the largest four-year public university system in the nation. The state is conducting an audit following Times investigations that found repeated inconsistencies in how campuses across the system handle sexual misconduct and retaliation cases.



Before the onset of COVID-19, the Golden Bear was used as a freshman residence hall while docked at the edge of campus in Morrow Cove on the northern San Francisco Bay.

Originally built for the U.S. Navy, the ship was transferred to Cal Maritime in 1996 and has provided a hands-on learning experience for cadets who study the design of the vessel and navigate ocean waters under the direction of a captain and ship officers.

During monthslong summer ocean cruises, about 300 cadets and crew members live and work on the vessel, which has nine decks connected by stairwells and narrow passageways.

The ship is outfitted with classrooms, a library and a gym, and students sleep in small rooms with stacked beds and shared bathrooms. Theres a lounge known as Pirates Cove and space to stow fishing gear and surfboards. Work assignments include the bridge, where the captain commands the vessel, and the engine room below deck, where massive diesel engines power the Golden Bear on voyages to Asia, Europe and Latin America.

A cadet who lived on the Golden Bear while it was docked on campus said that a male student also residing on board raped her twice in the ships close quarters, according to campus investigative records reviewed by The Times.

The assaults took place in a classroom and her bedroom, she alleged in a sexual misconduct complaint filed in 2019. It was one of the claims the campus did not report to federal authorities.

The cadet asserted that she never consented to sex with the male student and that she was intoxicated during both incidents  a claim corroborated by multiple witnesses who spoke to investigators.

In the first incident, the cadet said, she met with the male student in the ship classroom hours after she had been drinking with him. They had planned to watch a movie, she said, when he allegedly raped her.

A month later, the woman alleged, the cadet raped her again after she returned from a party. She said she didnt have the strength to stop him, campus records show.

At a campus hearing in 2020, the cadet accused of assaulting the woman said he inferred permission for the encounter from her reaction to his advances, the records show.

The hearing officer concluded there was no violation of CSU policy.

Afterward, the woman said that a campus official encouraged her to file an appeal. She chose not to go forward.

I was burnt out and wanted to put it behind me, she said in an interview with The Times.

She recalled the emotional turmoil she felt. During the investigation, her grades fell and she was placed on academic probation as she recovered from the trauma, she said.

That took a little bit of psychological healing, she said. The Times does not typically identify people who allege that they were sexually assaulted.

Another cadet who reported an alleged sexual assault aboard the Golden Bear said it was troubling that the university did not disclose her claim and other such incidents to federal officials.

She and a male classmate were on a late-night security patrol of the ship while it was docked at the academy last spring, according to records from a campus sexual assault investigation launched after she filed a formal complaint last year.

She alleged that he pulled her into a room, grabbed her face and began kissing her, then unzipped her boilersuit and grabbed her all over her body, the records show.

The investigation, which is continuing, is also examining a second allegation by the woman that the classmate raped her in a separate attack in the campus dorms, according to the records. He said that he did nothing wrong and that they engaged in consensual sex.

In interviews, the woman said she kept an eye out for her alleged attackers vehicle in school parking lots and stopped going to the dining center to avoid seeing him. After much self-blame, she said, she was prescribed antidepressants, which she no longer takes.

This semester has been better, she said, because her accused attacker is no longer at school. But the cadet said she remains disappointed that campus leaders did not alert federal maritime officials.

It makes it seem like they want to carry on as if nothing happened, said the woman, who wants to travel the world as an officer in the U.S. Merchant Marine.

Its this kind of ... response that manipulates victims into believing that what happened to them wasnt a big deal, she said.

A 500-foot training ship with "Golden Bear" on its stern is framed on the water by a bridge and hills beyond it

Cadets train to become U.S. Merchant Marine officers aboard the Training Ship Golden Bear.(Gary Coronado / Los Angeles Times)

In summer 2021, cadets vandalized the Golden Bear during a training cruise. Phallic symbols were chalked on walls, and a sleeping quarters door was removed from its hinges and replaced with another that had a window in the middle and a homophobic slur etched below.

Chief mate Jessica Ryals, the second in command, alerted the ship captain and the campus to the vandalism. The president dispatched the director of marine transportation, Samuel Pecota, to meet the vessel the next day off Catalina and investigate. The captain notified federal maritime officials about the vandalism, according to the campus.

During Pecotas inquiry, internal records reviewed by The Times show, multiple people accused Capt. Louis Solana of staring at womens breasts, singing a lewd karaoke song and being openly dismissive of and derogatory toward women and the LGBTQ community.

The claims were detailed in a confidential report to Cropper on Sept. 1, 2021, several days after the Golden Bear had returned to the school. Solana was put on leave for the semester as officials reviewed the vandalism investigation, the campus said.

The university ordered a review of training cruise culture, focusing on the two voyages that summer. But the campus did not report the sexual harassment claims against Solana to federal maritime officials, nor did it launch a formal investigation into the allegations that Pecota reported.

Pecota declined to be interviewed.

In October 2021, Solana defended himself in an 18-page rebuttal that he shared with a faculty member and cadet. In the document, which was leaked to the campus community, he called the accusations in the report slanderous and labeled the relationship between Pecota and Ryals as collusive. He also accused Ryals of displaying poor leadership and questionable moral conduct, adding that she contributed to a hostile environment aboard the vessel.

Solana declined to comment for this article, saying that campus management told him the case is confidential.

Ryals told The Times that the campus community turned on her in defense of Solana. She was targeted in anonymous social media posts and heard whispers directed at her that included c, bitch, just quit already and kill yourself. Someone broke into her car on campus, she said, and she no longer felt safe walking the grounds.

It became almost impossible to actually do my job, Ryals said, adding that she lived on campus as a residence life coordinator. There was no avoiding this hostile environment that I was working in.

The campus began investigating Ryals allegations in January 2022 after she filed a formal complaint against Solana. She described several of the sexual harassment allegations raised in Pecotas memo from months before and the hostility she said she faced following Solanas rebuttal.

Cal Maritime said supervisors counseled Solana about the accusations while the investigation into Ryals complaint was continuing. The inquiry concluded in October 2022, finding that Solana had sexually harassed and retaliated against her in violation of CSU policy, campus records show. He was allowed to continue teaching because removing him from class would have resulted in significant disruption and harm to the academic progress of students, the campus said. He remains employed by the university but is not teaching.

Ryals left the university soon after the investigation began, ending her dream of becoming the first woman to captain the Golden Bear.

I cared very greatly about educating and graduating the next generation of merchant mariners and being a mentor and helping to train and guide these young people, she said. It absolutely broke my heart to feel like that was all taken away from me.

The investigation into training cruise culture was conducted by a civil rights expert from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, and its findings were released early last year. The report cited frequent use of racist, sexist, transphobic and homophobic slurs on the ship and on campus, all of which were part of a more pervasive problem at the academy.

In response, campus officials said they strengthened the reporting and investigative process to ensure that sea training was more positive, safe and equitable.

But concerns about a hostile environment and a lack of thorough shipboard investigations surfaced again during a training cruise last summer.

As second mate, Elizabeth Neumyer was one of the top officers on the Golden Bear during the voyage. Troubled by the accusations of transphobia and homophobia noted in the campus report on cruise culture, she decided to head things off.

While cadets lined up during formation, Neumyer announced that she was a transgender woman.

I didnt want any students getting hurt, and I figured that one of the ways for them to potentially be safer was if people knew that the person whos partially responsible for enforcing such things was from this community, she recounted in an interview.

She received support from a number of people.

But before the ships departure in May, a student reported on an anonymous texting app that a classmate on the vessel allegedly said he wanted to kill the second mate because she is transgender, according to a report by the ships captain that was reviewed by The Times.

Campus police investigated and interviewed the cadet suspected of making the threat. The cadet denied wrongdoing, and an officer closed the case after concluding that it did not appear that a criminal act occurred, a police report shows. According to the campus, the ship captain alerted federal maritime officials to the threat.

Days later, as the ship headed to Seattle, Neumyer and a cadet who is transgender filed formal complaints.

They didnt do anything to assuage anyones fears, Neumyer said of campus officials who probed the death threat.

Capt. Darrin Muenzberg and his third mate launched an investigation.

Internal records show that both officers said they were relying on their experience and best judgment because, as Muenzberg noted in his investigation report, there was an absence of procedure, checklists, or guidelines for shipboard conduct of discrimination [and] harassment investigations.

Their investigation found a hostile environment for the LGBTQ community. The cadet suspected of making the threat was kicked off the ship in Seattle for allegedly violating the student conduct code, the records show.

Muenzberg declined to comment.

Cal Maritime said the coordinator who oversees campus sexual misconduct and discrimination complaints, not the captain, is responsible for investigating wrongdoing on the Golden Bear.

But the coordinator is not assigned to the ship during sea training that lasts up to two months, which hinders evidence gathering when the case is fresh, Neumyer said.

After the Golden Bear returned from the training voyage, the campus conducted a preliminary inquiry into the hostile environment accusations but did not formally investigate because officials were unable to determine who was responsible, according to an email from the coordinator.

Neumyer said she became the first woman to captain the Golden Bear during a second training cruise last summer, which was overseen by the Maritime Administration and included cadets from several academies, including Cal Maritime.

She said Cal Maritime must develop clear procedures on how to investigate wrongdoing aboard the ship, including coordinating efforts between campus officials and the vessels captain during sea training.

Theyre throwing a lot of words at the problem, but theyre not putting any substance to it, Neumyer said.

Its a system that just doesnt work.
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LOS ANGELES (AP)  The Los Angeles Unified School District and union officials announced Tuesday that a tentative deal has been reached on a new contract that would give a significant pay raise to teachers, nurses, counselors and other educational staff in the nation's second-largest school system.

The deal calls for the nearly 35,000 members of United Teachers Los Angeles to receive a 21% pay increase in increments of 3% or 4% retroactive to last July and through Jan. 1, 2025.

The pact, reached over 11 months of bargaining, also would enhance pay for substitute teachers, decrease class sizes by two students, create enforceable class size caps for special education, provide support for immigrant students and families, and increase mental health and counseling services.

Smaller class sizes will give our kids the attention and care they require, and competitive salaries will ensure our schools can successfully hire, retain and develop successful teachers and educators to mold our young leaders of tomorrow, UTLA President Cecily Myart-Cruz said in a statement.

District Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho said the agreement "is a necessary step not only to make Los Angeles Unified the district of choice for families but also the district of choice for teachers and employees.

Last month, the teachers union largely supported a three-day strike by a separate union representing the district's bus drivers, cafeteria workers and other service workers.

The strike shut down the district, which quickly reached a deal with the Service Employees International Union, whose members ratified the pact this month.

A ratification vote by United Teachers Los Angeles will be held in the coming weeks. The union's board recommends members vote yes on approving the tentative agreement.

Both contracts require approval by the district Board of Education.

The LA Unified School District has more than 500,000 students. It serves Los Angeles and all or part of 25 other cities and unincorporated county areas.
WOOD RIVER, Neb. (AP)  One worker died and four others were injured in an explosion at an ethanol plant in eastern Nebraska.

The explosion was reported Monday afternoon at a Green Plains ethanol plant in Wood River, which is about 160 miles west of Omaha. The Nebraska State Fire Marshal Agency said firefighters found a liquid holding tank that had been damaged in the explosion at the plant, which makes the highly flammable fuel additive. There was no fire when they arrived.
BATON ROUGE, La. (AP)  Pornography websites that don't require their users in Louisiana to present proof of age, such as by uploading their license, could face fines of $5,000 a day under a bill advancing in the House.

Lawmakers in the Louisiana House overwhelmingly approved the measure on Monday and sent it to the Senate for consideration. The legislation would allow the state's Attorney General to investigate and fine pornographic websites that do not comply with the state's recently enacted age verification law.

In preparation for this bill today, I went to one of the largest non-compliant porn sites, so I could tell you exactly what non-compliance to age verification looks like. With only one click I was able to access hardcore pornography on the landing page alone, depicting acts of incest, sexual assault, rape, and sex with minors," said Rep. Laurie Laurie Schlegel, the Republican sponsoring the bill.

The bill is a companion to a law that went into effect at the start of this year, which requires adult websites to screen their visitors using reasonable age verification. The new law applies to websites, where at least one-third of their content is pornographic material considered harmful to minors."

Certain adult websites, including Pornhub, began using LA Wallet  which can maintain a copy of a Louisiana residents digital drivers license, as well as vaccination records, virtual court appearances and hunting and fishing licenses. LA Wallets system simply tells a third-party verification company whether or not the user is at least 18 years old, The Advocate reported.

Schlegel, who also sponsored last year's law, said she created the legislation to "protect children from the dangers of online pornography.

While people can sue companies that arent complying, Schlegel said her new legislation is meant to address websites that have simply disregarded the law.

I know that many of you have heard me say, This isnt your daddy's Playboy' - but, heck. This isn't even the Hustler you hid underneath your bed ... what we're discussing today is hardcore pornography that is one click away from our children, said Schlegel, who is a a sex addiction therapist.

Those skeptical of the bill raised privacy concerns and fears of initially broad language. But by the end of the debate, most lawmakers agreed on the bill, which passed 101-1. The sole opposing vote was from Democratic Rep. Mandie Landry. The legislation will move to the Senate to be assigned to a committee for further discussion.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The recent data breach of personal information for thousands of users of Washington D.C.'s health insurance exchange, including members of Congress, was caused by basic human error, according to a top administrator.

The revelation comes from prepared statements submitted in advance of Wednesday's congressional hearing to investigate the issue. In her statement, Mila Kofman, Executive Director of the District of Columbia Health Benefit Exchange Authority, states that the data breach was first discovered in early March and includes basic personal information  including date of birth, Social Security numbers and contact information  for 56,415 current and past customers including members of Congress, their families, and staff.

Kofman states her office immediately brought in the FBI Cyber Security Task Force and the security flaw was quickly tracked down to a particular computer server that was "misconfigured to allow access to the reports on the server without proper authentication. Based on our investigation to-date, we believe the misconfiguration was not intentional but human mistake."

This security flaw enabled an unidentified hacker to steal two reports that contained the client information  some of which was later offered up for sale in an online forum. The issue first came to public attention when members of the House of Representatives and the Senate were informed that they and their staffers may have been affected.

Kofman states that the stolen data included that of 17 Members of the House and 43 of their dependents, and 585 House staff members and of their 231 dependents.

In her testimony Kofman apologizes for the breach, but praises her agency's response once the leak was detected  identifying and shutting down the security flaw and offered immediate identity theft and credit monitoring protection for those impacted.

"We are not shying away from this breach. We have been and remain committed to being open and transparent," Kofman's testimony states.

On Wednesday. the House Oversight Committee's subcommittee on cybersecurity, information technology, and government innovation will question Kofman and Catherine Szpindor, the chief administrative officer for the House of Representatives in a joint session with the Committee on House Administration's oversight subcommittee.

The two subcommittee chairs, Reps. Nancy Mace (R-South Carolina) and Barry Loudermilk (R-Georgia), said in a joint statement last week that, The breach of D.C. Health link data put thousands of individuals at risk, including Members of Congress, congressional staff, and family members. The individuals who trusted the D.C. health exchange to keep their personal health data secure are rightly concerned about the potential consequences of this breach on their personal lives. They are relying on us to investigate how it took place, how it could have been avoided, how the fallout can be mitigated, and how to prevent a recurrence.

The hearing comes in the larger context of a sweeping effort by the Republican-held House of Representatives to increase their oversight on the government of the District of Columbia. Congress has already overturned a rewrite of the D.C. criminal code  which passed the Senate with significant Democratic support. This week the House will also vote on a police reform law passed by the D.C. Council last year, although that move has murkier prospects in the Senate and President Joe Biden has already said he would veto it, if necessary.

___

AP Technology Writer Frank Bajak in Boston contributed to this report.
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NEW YORK (AP)  Following Mondays congressional hearing on violent crime in New York City, claims spread across social media that the bad old days are back in the nations largest city.

Conservatives and other users widely shared a video clip of New York City Councilman Robert Holden, who testified at the special hearing in Manhattan that hes never seen the lawlessness hes seen today in his lifetime.

DEMOCRAT city councilman Robert Holden has lived in New York City for 71 years, Republicans on the House Judiciary Committee that held the hearing tweeted, along with a clip of the Queens lawmakers testimony. Hes never seen crime this bad.

But experts and city officials say crime across the five boroughs is nowhere near the levels seen in the 1990s, and while there was a rise in 2022, those figures are already trending down this year.

Heres a closer look at the facts.

CLAIM: Crime in New York City is the worst its ever been, especially in the borough of Manhattan where Trump faces criminal charges.

THE FACTS: While its true that major crimes in New York City rose last year compared to 2021, criminal justice experts say crime levels were significantly higher three decades ago, and that the current levels are more comparable to where New York was a decade ago, when people frequently lauded it as Americas safest big city.

The New York Police Department and Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Braggs office, meanwhile, argue the recent surge is already receding. Through the first quarter of 2023, major crimes are down overall compared to the same period last year.

Nevertheless, the notion of a crime wave washing over the Big Apple has been a steady refrain on social media since Bragg's office brought charges against former President Donald Trump, who has pleaded not guilty to 34 counts related to hush money payments during his winning 2016 campaign.

Trump and other Republicans have blamed the purported crime wave on Bragg, a progressive Democrat.

Soft on crime policies are going to ruin this great city and thats why were here today, said House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan, an Ohio Republican, during Mondays hearing, which was held near Braggs office.

Nearly four months into the new year, the concerns partly bear out: felony assaults are up about 8% and auto thefts are up around 11% compared to the same period last year, according to NYPD crime data through April 16.

But the other five so-called major crimes are all down. Murders have declined more than 6%, rapes nearly 8%, robberies nearly 3%, burglaries about 8% and grand larcenies nearly 2%.

The decline since suggests that crime is hardly skyrocketing, Jeffrey Fagan, a professor at Columbia Law School who specializes in crime and policing, wrote in an email. In fact, the pattern suggests quite the opposite.

The apparent dips come after total major crimes spiked 22% last year, from 103,388 incidents in 2021 to 126,537 in 2022.

That rise was driven by increases in six of the seven categories: rapes, robberies, felony assaults, burglaries, grand larcenies and car thefts, according to NYPD data. The lone exception was murders, which dropped 11%, from 488 in 2021 to 438 last year.

A spokesperson for the NYPD declined to comment, instead referring to a statement released earlier this month by Police Commissioner Keechant Sewell.

While we are encouraged that five of the seven index crime categories decreased in the first quarter, felony assaults and grand larceny autos remain persistent issues, she said. The NYPD will continue to address these conditions while also remaining focused on further driving down violence.

Bragg, in a statement posted on Twitter, noted last years rise in crime began before he even took office last January as the boroughs first Black district attorney.

Virtually every major crime category is lower in Manhattan now than it was last year, he wrote.

Christopher Herrmann, professor at the John Jay College of Criminal Justice and a former NYPD crime analyst, agreed with the assessment, adding that crime levels in Braggs jurisdiction are also nowhere close to the high-crime times of the 1990s.

Major crimes are, overall, down 72% from 1993 in Manhattan, according to his analysis of borough-level crime data. The 438 murders recorded citywide last year, moreover, are vastly less than the 2,262 recorded in 1990, NYPD's April 16 report shows.

Whats more, the citywide violent crime rate  the number of reported crimes divided by the citys population  has remained relatively flat over the past decade, said Jaclyn Schildkraut, executive director of the Rockefeller Institute of Governments Regional Gun Violence Research Consortium in Albany, New York.

The rate has hovered between 400 to 500 violent crimes per 100,000 residents going back to at least 2011, according to her analysis of NYPD historical crime data.

One cannot make the claim that crime is surging based on one outlier year, Schildkraut wrote in an email, referring to last year, when the rate rose to nearly 540 violent crimes per 100,000 residents.

Meanwhile Holdens chief of staff Daniel Kurzyna, in an email Tuesday, stressed the councilman never referenced crime, only "lawlessness in his remarks.

In his testimony, he clearly stated that he had never seen this level of lawlessness in the city before, which he stands by, Kurzyna wrote. By lawlessness, and the Council Member had mentioned this several times on the record, including in recent interviews, is the level of anti-police rhetoric, the lack of fear of consequences, folks running red lights, e-bikes on sidewalks, rampant fare evasion and turnstile jumping, and others."

But a number of social media users  and at least one expert who testified Monday  noted that New York Citys crime levels pale in comparison to those in the home states of Republicans on the House Judiciary Committee.

Indeed in Rep. Jordans native Ohio, rates for all seven major crimes are higher than those in New York City, according to Jim Kessler, vice president for policy at Third Way, a center-left think tank in D.C., which analyzed crime data from the NYPD and Ohios Office of Criminal Justice Services.

In nearly all crime categories and in all of the states, New York City  with its population of 8.5 million sitting on a land mass of just 302 square miles  is safer, he said during Monday's congressional hearing. And ironically, Manhattan has a lower crime rate than the rest of New York City.

___

This is part of APs effort to address widely shared misinformation, including work with outside companies and organizations to add factual context to misleading content that is circulating online. Learn more about fact-checking at AP.
The Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have agreed on Tuesday afternoon on a 24-hour ceasefire, which was proposed by international community, to start at 6pm Khartoum Local Time (GMT+2).

Lieutenant General Shams El-Din Kabbashi, a top military officer in the Sudanese army and a member of the Sudanese Transitional Sovereignty Council (STSC), told Al-Arabiya that General Command of the Armed Forces agreed to the ceasefire on the condition that the movements of RSF be monitored.

The STSC "would not accept any mediation that would impede the confrontation with the rebels," he told Al-Arabiya.

Rules of engagement

El-Kabbashi accused that the RSF of engaging in looting and using civilians as human shields.

He also charged that the RSF carried out acts of sabotage at Khartoum International Airport and disrupted air traffic.

He said the Sudanese Armed Forces is fighting a complex urban war and engaging with the opposing side according to the law.

The army is using military force only to the extent that safeguards the lives of civilians, El-Kabbashi added.

He said the Sudanese Armed Forces will restore matters to normal as soon as possible, adding that the army has taken control of the RSF headquarters in all states except for two.

El-Kabbashi confirmed to Al-Arabiya that General Abdel-Fattah Al-Burhan, the Commander in Chief of the Sudanese Armed Forces and the head of the STSC, is in good health and directing the battle.

He reiterated to Al-Arabiya that the commander of the RSF, Muhammad Hamdan Dagalo Hemedti, engaged in an act of a clear rebellion."

Finally, El-Kabbashi refuted claims of any defections within the armed forces while adding that reports of defections within the RSF are 100% correct.

On the other side, the RSF said on Tuesday afternoon that they agreed to the ceasefire based on "direct contact" with the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and "the efforts of sisterly and friendly countries that made similar contacts that called on us to temporarily stop the fighting in order to open safe corridors for the passage of civilians."

Averting humanitarian disaster

Earlier today, Blinken confirmed on his twitter account that he had talks with both sides in the conflict where he emphasised the "urgent need for a ceasefire."

I spoke to both Sudanese Armed Forces Commander Burhan & Rapid Support Forces Commander Dagalo and underscored the urgent need for a ceasefire. Too many civilian lives have already been lost. Stressed the importance of ensuring the safety of diplomatic personnel and aid workers.  Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) April 18, 2023

As the fighting rages, more regional and international powers called for a ceasefire in the country to avert a humanitarian crisis in the country and allow for dialogue.

Since the start of fighting on Saturday, millions of Sudanese - in the capital and elsewhere in the country - have been hiding in homes without adequate supplies.

Many found themselves caught in the crossfire as the two warring sides battle it out in street fights using light and heavy weaponry.

More than 185 have been killed and 1,800 wounded since the fighting began, according to UN estimates.

The Sudan Doctors Syndicate estimated that at least 144 civilians were killed and more than 1,400 were wounded.

The overall death toll could be much higher because clashes on the streets of Khartoum have impeded the removal of bodies in some areas.

The RSF, said that they agreed to the ceasefire based after "direct communication" with the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken as well as "sisterly and friendly countries that called on us to temporarily stop the fighting in order to open safe corridors for the passage of civilians."

In battle news, the Sudanese army announced on Saturday afternoon that it has taken control over the strategic Marawi Airport in the north of the country, saying RSF soldiers fled after attempting to destroy infrastructure.

The Sudanese army said earlier that the RSF was preparing to receive military aid from unspecified foreign parties at the airport, a claim that the rebels denied.

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DES MOINES, Iowa (AP)  Lawmakers in Iowa's Senate passed a controversial bill Tuesday that would allow minors to work longer hours and work in currently banned roles, like serving alcohol at restaurants, the Des Moines Register reported.

Supporters of the bill  mainly Republicans  said it would give children valuable opportunities to work and get paid, whereas opponents  largely Democrats  said it would harm children.

Although two Republicans defied their party and voted against the bill with Democrats, the measure still passed 32-17 in the GOP-controlled Senate. The bill requires approval from the Republican-controlled House and from Republican Gov. Kim Reynolds to become law.

The bill would allow kids under 16 to work up to six hours a day, which is two more hours than currently allowed for that age group. It would also allow 16- and 17-year-olds to serve alcohol at restaurants, with written permission from their parent or guardian.

Ultimately, parents and kids will decide if they want to work or not," Reynolds has said favorably about the bill. "It teaches the kids a lot. And if they have the time to do it and they want to earn some additional money, I dont think we should discourage that.

The U.S. Department of Labor's top lawyer, Seema Nanda, disagreed, saying it is irresponsible for states to consider loosening child labor protections."

Democrats and labor unions echoed that sentiment, saying the bill would increase the chance of workplace accidents and injuries among youth.

The Biden administration this month urged U.S. companies to make sure they aren't illegally hiring children to perform dangerous jobs, after an investigation found more than 100 kids working overnight and handling hazardous equipment  like skull splitters and bone saws  for a company that cleans slaughterhouses across the country.

The Labor Department says it has more than 600 child labor investigations underway, and officials are concerned about the exploitation of children, particularly migrants who may not even have a parent in the United States.
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Republican gubernatorial candidate and current state Attorney General Daniel Cameron said Tuesday that he supports creating a work requirement for some able-bodied Kentucky adults receiving Medicaid health coverage, reigniting a contentious issue from the state's governor's race four years ago.

At a GOP candidates' forum in Paducah, Cameron pledged that if elected governor in November, he'd request federal permission to impose work rules for some Medicaid recipients. He's seeking to install a requirement that has run into resistance from the courts and President Joe Bidens administration.

On day one as your next governor, I will go to the federal government, I will ask for a waiver to make sure that we put a work requirement with those able-bodied recipients, Cameron said. "Medicaid should not be a program that people stay on for the remainder of their life, especially if they can work. It needs to be transitory, so that we can save it for other folks that actually need it.

Medicaid became a flash point during the state's 2019 gubernatorial campaign  won by Democrat Andy Beshear, who is seeking reelection to a second term this year.

After taking office, Beshear rescinded efforts by former Republican Gov. Matt Bevin to set work requirements for some able-bodied adults to receive Medicaid coverage. At the time, Beshear referred to his action as the moral, faith-driven thing to do. Beshear calls health care a basic human right.

Medicaid is a joint federal and state health care program for poor and disabled people. Advocates have said work requirements would become one more hoop for low-income people to jump through, and many could be denied coverage because of technicalities and challenging new paperwork.

The Trump-era plan by Bevin would have required that affected recipients either work, study, volunteer or perform other community engagement activities to qualify for Medicaid. A federal judge blocked the requirements before they took effect, but Bevins administration had appealed. Beshear said his action ended Kentuckys involvement in the litigation.

Beshear said the plan would have stripped coverage for about 100,000 Kentuckians. Bevins administration estimated the work-related changes would have saved taxpayers more than $300 million over five years and said it would have encouraged people to be healthier.

On Tuesday, Cameron didn't provide details about what his proposed waiver would entail, but said that work requirements would improve the state's workforce participation.

Democrats pounced on Camerons remarks in trying to connect him to Bevin, who narrowly lost to Beshear four years ago.

Anna Breedlove, communications director for the Kentucky Democratic Party, said Cameron wanted to "reinstate the Matt Bevin policy to rip healthcare away from close to 100,000 Kentuckians.

Cameron brought up the issue twice during the hourlong forum attended by three other GOP candidates for governor  state Agriculture Commissioner Ryan Quarles, state Auditor Mike Harmon and Somerset Mayor Alan Keck. Former United Nations ambassador Kelly Craft, who is also running, did not attend the event in western Kentucky.

Former Gov. Steve Beshear, the current governor's father, championed the states Medicaid expansion. Hundreds of thousands were added to the Medicaid rolls when Steve Beshear expanded the program to cover able-bodied adults. For many Kentuckians, it was their first time to have health coverage.

Twelve candidates in all are competing for the states Republican nomination for governor in the May 16 primary. The Kentucky campaign is drawing national attention to see if Andy Beshear, who has received consistently high voter approval ratings, can overcome his partys struggles in the GOP-trending state.

Kentucky is among a number of states across the country where efforts to mandate work requirements for Medicaid recipients are underway, including South Dakota and Georgia.

In Arkansas, Republican Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders has said her state will ask the federal government to allow it to require people on its expanded Medicaid program to work.

Unlike the previous requirement, Sanders said, the latest proposal wont cut off coverage to people who dont comply. Instead, it will move them from the private insurance used for Arkansas expansion to the traditional fee-for-service Medicaid program.

A federal judge in 2019 blocked a work requirement for the Arkansas program advocated by Sanders predecessor, former Gov. Asa Hutchinson, who has launched a bid for president in 2024. Bidens administration later rolled back work requirements in Arkansas and several other states. A federal judge last year cleared Georgias plan to partially expand Medicaid with a work requirement.
ATLANTA (AP)  The family of a man who died in a jail in Atlanta's suburbs said his death could have been prevented if he had received proper medical attention for an ulcer that caused internal bleeding.

Deion Strayhon's family filed a medical malpractice lawsuit against NaphCare Inc., a private company contracted to provide medical care at the Gwinnett County Jail, as well as several doctors and nurses who treated Strayhon.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The roster of Republican presidential hopefuls who flocked to the National Rifle Association's annual convention reflects the political potency of gun rights, despite the group's eroding revenues and an opposition movement that's growing increasingly vocal as the drumbeat of mass shootings marches on.

Even amid internal turmoil and legal woes, the gun ownership culture and movement that the NRA helped build remains formidable. And the landmark Supreme Court ruling on the Second Amendment last summer has given new strength to gun-rights activists seeking to invalidate firearm restrictions across the country.

On the one hand, the gun-rights movement has never been stronger, said Adam Winkler, a law professor at the University of California, Los Angeles who wrote Gunfight: The Battle over the Right to Bear Arms in America." But one of the interesting things about this moment is the NRA, in some ways, has never faced more organizational incoherence and disarray.

This year's convention came just days after mass shootings at a school in Nashville, Tennessee and at a bank last week in Louisville, Kentucky, the latter of which marked the 15th mass killing of the year in the U.S. in which four or more people were killed other than the perpetrator, according to a mass killings database maintained by The Associated Press and USA Today in partnership with Northeastern University. That was the most during the first 100 days of a calendar year since 2009, when 16 incidents had occurred by April 10.

No one wants to see the violence you see in schools and stuff today, Randy Conner, a pistol and rifle instructor for the NRA from Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, told The Associated Press during the event. But I dont think taking the guns away from ordinary citizens is going to change any of that at all.

The Indianapolis gathering drew a slew of Republicans, including former President Donald Trump and former Vice President Mike Pence, potential rivals for the GOP's 2024 presidential nomination. They vowed to defend the Second Amendment and dismissed the idea that gun restrictions are the answer to violence on the streets.

It also came as the NRA grapples with the fallout of infighting and lawsuits.

A judge last year ruled that the New York attorney generals lawsuit accusing some top NRA executives of financial improprieties can move forward, even though the judge rebuffed Attorney General Letitia James' bid to put the group out of business. The NRA filed for bankruptcy in 2021, but a judge dismissed that case, ruling it was not filed in good faith.

Five years ago, the NRA had a $36 million deficit because of lavish spending, followed by lawsuits from its own members as well as the attorneys general in New York and Washington, D.C.

In the years since, the group appears to have pulled itself out of a financial hole, but not because of an influx of cash, said Brian Mittendorf, an accounting professor at Ohio State University who has studied the groups finances. Revenue fell by 4% in 2020, and by 18% the following year, he found. The group cut back on spending on longstanding programs, including education and training, recreational shooting and law enforcement initiatives, Mittendorf said.

Their primary source of revenue has always been membership dues, but that base has also declined in recent years, and cuts to programs could make it harder to draw in new members, Mittendorf said.

Despite the fact that theyve reduced their footprint, theyre still not getting enough revenues to cover their costs. So it suggests something has to give for this organization, he said.

Still, a bigger piece of the NRA's influence has been its ability to mobilize people to oppose gun control by creating a social identity around gun ownership, said Matt Lacombe, a Case Western Reserve University political science professor and author of Firepower: How the NRA Turned Gun Owners into a Political Force. And people are motivated to oppose efforts that feel like a threat to part of their identity, he said.

The NRA was responsible for creating that identity, but it is now a thing that exists in the world somewhat independently of the National Rifle Association as an organization, he said. So if the NRA were to fold tomorrow or to go out of business, its not as though this constituency of people who own guns and who largely view politics through this lens of being a gun owner is going to go anywhere, at least overnight.

An NRA spokesperson said the organization is financially strong and as effective as ever in its mission to protect the Second Amendment, despite the effects of a pandemic, weak economy and other factors that have affected so many corporations and organizations.

The demise of the NRA is a desperate and false narrative - one weve heard every year for decades," spokesperson Andrew Arulanandam said in an emailed statement. "And yet, the strength of this organization was on full display this past week, as nearly 80,000 people gathered in Indianapolis to celebrate the Association and listen to almost every pro-Second Amendment presidential candidate.

Gun sales in the U.S. rose to unprecedented levels during the COVID-19 pandemic, and Florida just became the latest state to do away with requirements that people get a permit to carry a concealed weapon.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court's Bruen decision in June  in a case brought by an NRA-affiliate  has prompted gun rights activists to file a flurry of challenges to firearm restrictions across the country. Judges already have pointed to the ruling, which changed the test that lower courts long used to evaluate gun laws, to declare unconstitutional measures designed to keep weapons out of the hands of domestic abusers and defendants under felony indictment, among other laws.

Yet, the last decade also has seen a growing counterweight in the gun-control movement.

Kissing the NRAs ring may help GOP presidential hopefuls win a primary, but it will be the kiss of death in a general election where a clear majority of voters favor common-sense gun safety laws," John Feinblatt, president of Everytown for Gun Safety, said in an emailed statement.

Congress passed its first major gun legislation in decades over the summer, stepping up FBI background checks for buyers under 21 and sending millions of new dollars to mental health services for children and schools.

The Biden administration has also tightened regulations on so-called ghost guns and stabilizing braces, an accessory used in at least two mass shootings. President Joe Biden has also signed executive orders expanding background checks on gun sales, and has called for reinstating a ban on so-called assault weapons," or certain semi-automatic rifles.

Still, the political prospects for that step look bleak at best. And NRA CEO Wayne LaPierre made clear during his Friday speech that the gun-rights group will mobilize supporters to fight such efforts.

Gun-hating politicians should never go to bed unafraid of what this association, and all of our millions of members, can do to their political careers, he said.

____

Richer reported from Boston. Associated Press data journalist Larry Fenn contributed to this report. Arleigh Rodgers also contributed. She is a corps member for The Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.
BERLIN (AP)  Swiss prosecutors said Tuesday they have charged a former interior minister of Gambia with crimes against humanity for his alleged role in years of repression by the west African country's security forces against opponents of its longtime dictator.

Ousman Sonko was Gambia's interior minister from 2006 to 2016 under then-President Yahya Jammeh. He applied for asylum in Switzerland in November 2016 and was arrested in January 2017.

The attorney general's office said the indictment, which was filed Monday in Switzerland's Federal Criminal Court in Bellinzona, covers alleged crimes between 2000 and 2016.

Sonko is accused, in his various capacities and positions, of having supported, participated in and failed to prevent systematic and generalized attacks as part of the repression carried out by the Gambian security forces against all opponents of the regime, the office said in a statement.

Jammeh, who seized control in a 1994 coup, lost Gambia's 2016 presidential election but refused to concede defeat to Adama Barrow. He ultimately fled amid threats of a regional military intervention to force him from power.

Barrow's government last year announced that it was setting up a special prosecutors office to investigate for severe human rights violations and potentially charge Jammeh. The investigation came in response to recommendations from a truth, reconciliation and reparations commission, which said Jammeh should face prosecution for murder, torture and sexual violence under his rule.

Sonko, who joined the Gambian military in 1988, was appointed as commander of the State Guard in 2003, a position in which he was responsible for Jammeh's security, Swiss prosecutors said. He was made inspector general of the Gambian police in 2005.

Sonko was removed as interior minister in September 2016, a few months before the end of Jammeh's government, and left Gambia for Europe to seek asylum.

Swiss prosecutors said they conducted numerous interviews with the suspect, as well with about 40 interviews with plaintiffs, witnesses and others providing information, and made six trips to Gambia during their investigation.

The attorney general's office said it accuses the defendant in particular of having, in the context of five events between 2000 and 2016, participated, ordered, facilitated and/or failed to prevent killings, acts of torture, acts of rape and numerous unlawful detentions.
WARSAW, Poland (AP)  Polish and Ukrainian officials say convoys of Ukrainian grain transiting Poland for export abroad will be sealed, guarded and monitored to ensure the produce stops flooding the Polish market and playing havoc with prices.

Tuesday's announcement came after two days of intensive talks following protests by Polish farmers, who said much of the Ukrainian grain was staying in Poland and creating a glut that caused them huge losses.

The deal will also end a temporary prohibition issued by Poland Saturday to address the protests on the entry of grain from Ukraine. Hungary and Slovakia, which are also affected by the transit of Ukrainian farm produce, later took similar measures. These moves drew the anger of the European Unions executive branch, the European Commission, which manages trade for the 27 member countries.

Polish Agriculture Minister Robert Telus told a press conference Tuesday that Warsaw and Kyiv have worked out mechanisms that mean that not a single ton of (Ukraine) grain will remain in Poland, that it will all be passing in transit, 

He said that for an unspecified length of time all Ukrainian produce in transit will be sealed, with traceable devices attached, and ferried in special guarded convoys to Polish ports and border crossings, on its way to other countries.

The transit is to ease the accumulation of grain and other produce intended for export to needy countries that's blocked in Ukraine by Russia's invasion.

Telus said the weekend's temporary ban was partly intended to draw the EU's attention to the acute problem. He alleged that the EU, while supporting the idea of the transit, has done nothing to facilitate it and prevent the glut.

The issue led to intensive talks between Poland and Ukraine's agriculture ministers, with the participation of Ukraine's deputy prime minister, Yulia Svyrydenko. The transit measures will be introduced Friday, when the temporary ban on grain  mainly wheat  will be lifted.

We pay attention to the problems of our Polish colleagues with the same attention as Poland treats our problems. Therefore, we have to respond promptly and constructively to this crisis situation, Svyrydenko said in Warsaw.

It was not clear when a ban on the entry of other Ukraine goods such as sugar, eggs, meat, milk and other dairy products and fruits and vegetables would be lifted.

Farmers in Poland and neighboring countries say that Ukrainian grain and farm produce, apart from flooding their markets, has filled their own storage areas, leaving no room for their own crops from this year.

After Russia blocked traditional export sea passages amid the war in Ukraine, the European Union lifted duties on Ukrainian grain to facilitate its transport to Africa and the Middle East and offered to pay some compensation, which the farmers said was insufficient.

Much of the grain ends up staying in transit countries, and some Polish unions and opposition politicians accuse government-linked companies of causing the problem by buying up cheap, low-quality Ukrainian grain, and then selling it to bread and pasta plants as high-quality Polish produce.

Poland's main ruling party, Law and Justice, is seeking to ease the discontent of farmers  the party's voter base  ahead of fall parliamentary elections.

In Romania, another country affected by Ukraine produce overflow, the ruling Social Democrat Party said Tuesday that it will ask its governing coalition partners to urgently look to issue a temporary suspension of imports of food products from Ukraine.

Such a measure is necessary to protect Romanian farmers, in the context in which compensation received from the European Commission cannot cover the total value of the damage, the party said in a statement.
BEIJING (AP)  Police in New York have arrested two men for allegedly setting up a secret police station for a Chinese provincial police agency to collect information on opponents of the ruling Communist Party.

Such offices have been reported across North America, Europe and in other countries where Chinese communities include critics of the Communist Party who have family or business contacts in China. China denies that they are police stations, saying that they exist mainly to provide citizen services such as renewing driver's licenses.

Party leader and head of state Xi Jinping has waged a campaign against corruption that has also targeted criticism of his regime at home and abroad, while seeking to chase down those accused of financial crimes.

The arrests Monday in New York came alongside charges against 34 officers with Chinas national police force in China for using social media to harass party critics in the United States, authorities said Monday.

Below is a look at the allegations that China is running secret overseas police stations and the backlash they have encountered.

WHAT IS THE LATEST IN THE NEW YORK CASE?

The two men who were arrested were acting under the direction and control of a Chinese government official, the Justice Department said in a statement Monday.

The arrests of the men, identified as Harry Lu Jianwang, 61, of the Bronx, and Chen Jinping, 59, of Manhattan, both U.S. citizens, are the first of their kind anywhere in the world.

The two did not register with the Justice Department as agents of a foreign government, U.S. law enforcement officials said. And though the office did perform some services such as helping Chinese citizens renew their Chinese drivers licenses, it also served a more sinister function, including helping the Chinese government locate a pro-democracy activist of Chinese descent living in California and threatening a fugitive whom police wanted to return to China, officials said.

WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF THE OFFICES?

On Tuesday, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said there was no such thing as an overseas police station, and accused the U.S. of smears and political manipulation. Chinas Foreign Ministry says it operates the centers abroad to help citizens with bureaucratic tasks, such as renewing drivers licenses, that typically are done at police stations in China.

But the Spain-based nongovernment group Safeguard Defenders accused Chinese police of using the offices to spy on critics abroad and to harass or threaten both citizens and non-citizens in a report published last year. A Chinese official claimed last year that 210,000 suspects of fraud were persuaded to return to China in 2021 as part of a crackdown on telephone scams, although the researchers wrote that not all were charged with crimes. Countries including Canada and Ireland asked China to close such stations or opened investigations of their own following the Safeguard Defenders report.

According to prosecutors in New York, the station in New York was operated by the Fuzhou branch of the Ministry of Public Security; they wrote that it had no authority to operate there and infringed U.S. law and national sovereignty.

HOW WILL THE INVESTIGATION AFFECT US-CHINA RELATIONS?

China-US political relations are at a historic low. In February, the U.S. canceled a visit by Secretary of State Anthony Blinken to Beijing amid a furor over a Chinese spy balloon that overflew the U.S. Suspicion of China is one of the few areas where the Democratic and Republican parties find common ground, and the accusations of illegal Chinese police stations will likely galvanize sentiment for banning of Chinese brands such as Huawei and TikTok. Countries are required by international treaty to inform each other of when and where they operate their diplomatic missions.

It's not clear if China will seek the release of the two men arrested in the U.S., who are both U.S. citizens. China has in past been accused of hostage diplomacy, including imprisoning two Canadian nationals over the detention of a top executive of the electronics giant Huawei.

WHERE ELSE DOES CHINA OPERATE SIMILAR OFFICES?

In a February 2002 news release, the government of Fujian province said it had established a first batch of 30 Fuzhou Police Overseas Service Stations on five continents. The province has traditionally sent waves of migrants to Southeast Asia, North America, Australia and Europe.

Scores of service offices  Safeguard Defenders estimates more than 100  have been reported around the world, from Canada to New Zealand. Some are based in embassies, while others have operated out of commercial centers frequented by members of the Chinese diaspora.

In Italy, Chinese police made an agreement with the government in 2016 to conduct joint patrols with local police to assist Chinese-speaking tourists. Italy ended the program last year following the Safeguard Defenders report.
With only 26 days left in the 90-day legislative session, Nebraska lawmakers have finally passed a single bill. Now they have only about 200 left to go.

In any other year, the Nebraska Legislature would have passed dozens of bills by now. But it has been hamstrung by progressive lawmakers filibustering every bill before the body this session  even ones they support  to protest conservatives push to pass a ban on gender-affirming care for minors.

During the last 90-day session, in 2021, legislators had passed 74 bills by Day 64  the point they reached Monday night when they passed this year's first bill  and 48 of them had already been signed into law by the governor, Clerk of the Legislature Brandon Metzler said.

This year's late date for passage of the first bill is not unprecedented, he said. The body once took up to 70 days to pass its first bill. But it is unusual, and the bottleneck of bills that have not advanced is unprecedented. As of Tuesday, only 10 bills had advanced to the last of three rounds of debate that a proposal must survive to be passed; 218 remained stuck without having gotten a first round of debate.

Normally, we'd have a stack of bills ready to pass, and we just don't have that this year, Metzler said.

Even with the bottleneck, Metzler expects around 200 pieces of legislation to be passed by the end of the session in early June. That's thanks to several procedural moves, including one by the Speaker of the Legislature to extend debate into the night starting in late March. Lawmakers also have begun advancing so-called Christmas tree bills  the practice of adding bills as amendments to a main bill and passing them as one package.

The lone bill to make it through all three rounds this session passed nearly six weeks after the liquor taxation measure was first debated and filibustered for eight hours by Omaha Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh.

Cavanaugh had no qualms with the bill itself; in fact, it had the support of all 49 lawmakers in the country's only one-house, officially nonpartisan legislature. But Cavanaugh had promised at the beginning of the session to filibuster every single bill  even ones she supported  if conservative lawmakers advanced the trans health bill.

When that bill was advanced by the Legislature's conservative-led Health and Human Services Committee in late February, Cavanaugh made good on the promise, declaring she would burn the session to the ground over this bill.

After the bill advanced from the first of three rounds of debate last month amid angry deliberation, Omaha Sen. Megan Hunt and other progressive lawmakers joined in the filibuster. Last week, the bill again advanced from the second round of debate, despite the promises of its opponents to stop filibustering other bills if conservative lawmakers either killed or scaled the trans bill back to ban only gender-assignment surgery for minors.

At least 13 states have now enacted laws restricting or banning gender-affirming care for minors: Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Mississippi, Tennessee, Utah, South Dakota and West Virginia. Bills await action from governors in Kansas, Montana and North Dakota. Federal judges have blocked enforcement of laws in Alabama and Arkansas, and nearly two dozen states are considering bills this year to restrict or ban care.

Three states  Florida, Missouri and Texas  have banned or restricted the care via regulations or administrative orders, and Missouris is the only one that also limits the treatments for adults. Texas governor has ordered child welfare officials to investigate reports of children receiving such care as child abuse, though a judge has blocked those investigations.
QALANDIYA CHECKPOINT, West Bank (AP)  For many Palestinians, the journey to one of Islam's most sacred sites on the holiest night of Ramadan begins in a dust-choked, garbage-strewn maelstrom.

Tens of thousands of Palestinian worshippers from across the occupied West Bank on Monday crammed through a military checkpoint leading to Jerusalem to pray at the Al-Aqsa Mosque for Laylat al-Qadr, or the "Night of Destiny," when Muslims believe that the Quran was revealed to the Prophet Mohammad centuries ago.

The noisy, sweaty crowds at Qalandiya checkpoint seem chaotic  but there was a system: women to the right; men to the left. Jerusalem residents here, disabled people there. And the grim-looking men stranded at the corner had endured the long wait only to be turned back altogether.

Im not political, I'm just devout, so I thought maybe tonight, because of Laylat al-Qadr, theyd let me in, said Deia Jamil, a 40-year-old Arabic teacher from the West Bank city of Ramallah.

But no. 'Forbidden,' he said, sinking onto his knees to pray in the dirt lot.

For Palestinian worshippers, praying at the third-holiest site in Islam is a centerpiece of Ramadan. But hundreds of thousands are barred from legally crossing into Jerusalem, with most men under 55 turned away at checkpoints due to Israeli security restrictions. They often resort to perilous means to get to the holy compound during the fasting month of Ramadan.

This year, as in the past, Israel has eased some restrictions, allowing women and young children from the West Bank to enter Jerusalem without a permit. Those between the ages of 45 and 55 who have a valid permit can pray at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound  one of the most bitterly disputed holy sites on Earth.

Jews revere it as the Temple Mount, home to the biblical Temples, and consider it the holiest site in Judaism. The competing claims are at the heart of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and often spill over into violence.

Israel says it is committed to protecting freedom of worship for all faiths and describes the controls on Palestinian worshippers as an essential security measure that keeps attackers out of Israel. Last month, a Palestinian who crossed into Israel from the West Bank village of Nilin opened fire on a crowded street in Tel Aviv, killing one Israeli and wounding two others.

But for Palestinians, the restrictions take a toll.

I feel completely lost, said 53-year-old Noureddine Odeh, his backpack sagging off one shoulder. His wife and teenage daughters made it through the checkpoint, leaving him behind. This year  a period of surging violence in the occupied West Bank  Israel raised the age limit for male worshippers and he was no longer eligible. Youre tugged around, like theyre playing God.

Israeli authorities did not answer questions about how many Palestinian applications theyd rejected from the West Bank and Gaza. But they said that so far this month, some 289,000 Palestinians  the majority from the West Bank and a few hundred from the Gaza Strip  had visited Jerusalem for prayers.

Earlier this month, Israel announced the start of special Ramadan flights for West Bank Palestinians from the Ramon Airport in southern Israel. In normal times, Palestinians would have to fly from neighboring Jordan. But Monday, days before the end of Ramadan, the Israeli defense agency that handles Palestinian civilian affairs said only that Palestinians will soon have the option.

The crowds squeezing through Qalandiya during Laylat al-Qadr  one of the most important nights of the year, when Muslims seek to have their prayers answered  were so overwhelming that Israeli forces repeatedly shut the barrier. The sudden closures created bottlenecks of people, most of whom had abstained from food and water all day. Medics from the Palestinian Red Crescent said at least 30 people collapse at the checkpoint on a busy Ramadan day.

Their elbows pressed into strangers torsos and heads squeezed under armpits, five women studying to be midwives who had never before left the West Bank entertained themselves with fantasies of Jerusalem. Well buy meat and sweets, squealed 20-year-old Sondos Warasna. And picnic in the Al-Aqsa courtyard.

The limestone courtyard, which teems with Palestinian families breaking fast each night after sunset, became roiled by violence earlier this month, when Ramadan overlapped with the Jewish holiday of Passover. Israeli police raided the compound, firing stun grenades and arresting hundreds of Palestinian worshippers who had barricaded themselves inside the mosque with fireworks and stones. The raid, which Israel said was necessary to prevent further violence, outraged Muslims across the world and prompted militants in Lebanon and the Gaza Strip to fire rockets at Israel.

Anger over access to the contested compound was undimmed at Qalandiya. Throngs of Palestinian girls and older men ostensibly permitted to pass were turned back and told they had security bans they never knew about that barred them from Jerusalem. The secretive system  which Palestinians consider a key tool in Israels 55-year-old military occupation  left them reeling, struggling to understand why.

A 16-year-old girl from the northern city of Jenin frantically called her parents who had entered Jerusalem without her. A 19-year-old from Ramallah changed her coat and put on sunglasses and lipstick before trying again.

Others found riskier ways to get to the holy compound  scrambling over Israels hulking separation barrier or sliding under razor wire.

Abdallah, a young medical student from the southern city of Hebron, clambered up a rickety ladder with six of his friends in the pre-dawn darkness Monday  then slid down a rope on the wall's other side  so he could make it to Al-Aqsa for Laylat al-Qadr. They paid a smuggler some $70 each to help them scale the barrier.

My heart was beating so loud. I was sure soldiers would hear it, Abdallah said, giving only his first name for fear of reprisals.

The Israeli military has picked up hundreds of Palestinians who sneaked through holes in the separation barrier during Ramadan, it said, adding that forces would continue to act against the security risk arising from the destruction of the security fence and illegal entry.

Abdallah said the experience of Jerusalem's Old City brought him great joy. But soon anxiety set in. Israeli police were everywhere  occasionally stopping young men and asking to see their IDs. He tried to blend in, wearing counterfeit athleisure like many Jerusalemites and smiling to look relaxed.

It's a mixed feeling. At any moment I know I could be arrested, he said from the entrance to the sacred compound. But our mosque, it makes me feel free.
For many Palestinians, the journey to one of Islam's most sacred sites on the holiest night of Ramadan begins in desperation as they face Israeli obstacles to reach Al-Aqsa.

Tens of thousands of Palestinian worshippers from across the occupied West Bank on Monday crammed through a military checkpoint leading to Jerusalem to pray at the Al-Aqsa Mosque for Laylat al-Qadr, or the "Night of Destiny," when Muslims believe that the Quran was revealed to the Prophet Mohammad centuries ago.

The noisy, sweaty crowds at Qalandiya checkpoint seem chaotic  but there was a system: women to the right; men to the left. Jerusalem residents here, disabled people there. And the grim-looking men stranded at the corner had endured the long wait only to be turned back altogether.

Im not political, I'm just devout, so I thought maybe tonight, because of Laylat al-Qadr, theyd let me in, said Deia Jamil, a 40-year-old Arabic teacher from the West Bank city of Ramallah.

But no. 'Forbidden,' he said, sinking onto his knees to pray.

For Palestinian worshippers, praying at the third-holiest site in Islam is a centerpiece of Ramadan. But hundreds of thousands are barred from legally crossing into Jerusalem, with most men under 55 turned away at checkpoints due to Israeli security restrictions. They often resort to perilous means to get to the holy compound during the fasting month of Ramadan.

After several days on brutal attacks of Muslims and Christians worshippers in Jerusalem, this year, as in the past, Israel has restricted Palestinians from entering Jerusalem. Tel Aviv raised the age limit for male worshippers. Only, those between the ages of 45 and 55 who have a valid permit can pray at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compounde as well as women and young children from the West Bank to enter Jerusalem without a permit.

For Palestinians, the restrictions take a toll.

I feel completely lost, said 53-year-old Noureddine Odeh, his backpack sagging off one shoulder. His wife and teenage daughters made it through the checkpoint, leaving him behind. This year  a period of surging violence in the occupied West Bank  he was no longer eligible according to Israeli restrictions. Youre tugged around, like theyre playing God.

Israeli occupation authorities did not answer questions about how many Palestinian applications theyd rejected from the West Bank and Gaza. But they said that so far this month, some 289,000 Palestinians  the majority from the West Bank and a few hundred from the Gaza Strip  had visited Jerusalem for prayers.

Earlier this month, Israel announced the start of special Ramadan flights for West Bank Palestinians from the Ramon Airport in southern Israel. In normal times, Palestinians would have to fly from neighboring Jordan. But Monday, days before the end of Ramadan, the Israeli defense agency that handles Palestinian civilian affairs said only that Palestinians will soon have the option.

The crowds squeezing through Qalandiya during Laylat al-Qadr  one of the most important nights of the year, when Muslims seek to have their prayers answered  were so overwhelming that Israeli forces repeatedly shut the barrier. The sudden closures created bottlenecks of people, most of whom had abstained from food and water all day. Medics from the Palestinian Red Crescent said at least 30 people collapse at the checkpoint on a busy Ramadan day.

Their elbows pressed into strangers torsos and heads squeezed under armpits, five women studying to be midwives who had never before left the West Bank entertained themselves with fantasies of Jerusalem. Well buy meat and sweets, squealed 20-year-old Sondos Warasna. And picnic in the Al-Aqsa courtyard.

The limestone courtyard, which teems with Palestinian families breaking fast each night after sunset, became roiled by violence earlier this month, when Ramadan overlapped with the Jewish holiday of Passover. Israeli police raided the compound, firing stun grenades and arresting hundreds of Palestinian worshippers who were performing the itikaf (seclusion for prayers) and tahajjud (night prayers) at the mosque.

Anger over access to the contested compound was undimmed at Qalandiya. Throngs of Palestinian girls and older men ostensibly permitted to pass were turned back and told they had security bans they never knew about that barred them from Jerusalem. The secretive system  which Palestinians consider a key tool in Israels 55-year-old military occupation  left them reeling, struggling to understand why.

A 16-year-old girl from the northern city of Jenin frantically called her parents who had entered Jerusalem without her. A 19-year-old from Ramallah changed her coat and put on sunglasses and lipstick before trying again.

Others found riskier ways to get to the holy compound  scrambling over Israels hulking separation barrier or sliding under razor wire.

Abdallah, a young medical student from the southern city of Hebron, clambered up a rickety ladder with six of his friends in the pre-dawn darkness Monday  then slid down a rope on the wall's other side  so he could make it to Al-Aqsa for Laylat al-Qadr. They paid a smuggler some $70 each to help them scale the barrier.

My heart was beating so loud. I was sure soldiers would hear it, Abdallah said, giving only his first name for fear of reprisals.

The Israeli military has picked up hundreds of Palestinians who sneaked through holes in the separation barrier during Ramadan, it said, adding that forces would continue to act against the security risk arising from the destruction of the security fence and illegal entry.

Abdallah said the experience of Jerusalem's Old City brought him great joy. But soon anxiety set in. Israeli police were everywhere  occasionally stopping young men and asking to see their IDs. He tried to blend in, wearing counterfeit athleisure like many Jerusalemites and smiling to look relaxed.

It's a mixed feeling. At any moment I know I could be arrested, he said from the entrance to the sacred compound. But our mosque, it makes me feel free.

*This story was edited by Ahram Online

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DAKAR, Senegal (AP)  Hunger is soaring and spreading across West Africa, with some 48 million people, a 10-year-high, facing food insecurity in the conflict-riddled region, the United Nations warned Tuesday.

Driven primarily by violence as well as the economic fallout from COVID-19 and inflation, food insecurity has heavily impacted Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, northern Nigeria and Mauritania, U.N. officials said at a press conference in Senegals capital, Dakar.

U.N. officials said that for the first time, some 45,000 people in the Sahel region, the arid expanse below the Sahara Desert, are on the brink of starvation, one step away from famine. The vast majority facing catastrophic levels of hunger, 42,000, are in Burkina Faso, the officials reported.

The situation is worrying," said Ann Defraye, a regional nutrition specialist for UNICEF in West and Central Africa. Last year, we saw a large increase (31%) in the numbers of children admitted to health facilities with severe wasting across the Sahel. ... In many areas, it is getting much more difficult for families to find nutritious food to eat, especially where we have communities under blockade.

Violence linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State group has ravaged both Burkina Faso and Mali for years.

Jihadis have blockaded dozens of villages in the region, cut off access to farms and lined the roads with explosives, making it hard for residents to move freely and forcing aid agencies to fly in food assistance, which is costly.

People living in besieged towns in Burkina Faso say they're struggling to survive.

We dont have enough food. People eat what they get, a resident of Pama, a town in the east that has been under blockade for more than a year told The Associated Press.

A few aid groups have managed to provide rice, oil and beans, but women cant grind millet because theres no gas and people cant leave the town because its surrounded by jihadis, the resident said. He would not give his name for fear of reprisals from speaking publicly.

As civilians flee attacks and militants expand their reach in Burkina Faso, hunger also is spreading across the border to neighboring Togo and Benin.

Nearly 1 million people are expected to be food insecure in Benin and Togo, almost double the number from two years earlier, according to the UN. For the first time, both countries asked aid groups for assistance in dealing with the influx of displaced people and refugees.

We're really concerned with the coastal countries. If there's not enough done in Burkina (Faso), the risk of increasing numbers of people having to cross the border to find safe haven or livelihood opportunities because they cannot use their land or their livestock have been attacked will increase," said Alexandre Le Cuziat, a senior emergency advisor for the World Food Program in West and Central Africa.

Theres still a prevention window in the coastal countries, but its closing fast. We saw it close fast in the Sahel, Le Cuziat said.

Aid groups, regional governments and donor countries need to take lessons learned from the insecurity crisis in other countries and try to mitigate the fallout in the coastal states, he said.
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DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP)  Irans supreme leader on Tuesday ruled out the holding of popular referendums on state policies.

Iran faced calls for a referendum on the Islamic Republic itself during anti-government protests last year, and a moderate former president recently suggested such votes should be held to decide major policies as a way of reducing divisions.

Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has the final say over such policies, rejected the idea when asked about it during a meeting with university students.

Where in the world is this done? Is it possible to hold a referendum for various issues of the country? he asked. For any single issue, the country would be engaged in debate and arguments and polarization for six months, so that a referendum can be held on that issue.

He appeared to be referring to recent remarks by former President Hassan Rouhani, a relative moderate, who had suggested holding referendums on domestic and foreign policies.

Iran holds regular presidential and parliamentary elections overseen by clerical bodies that vet candidates. Under the constitution, a referendum is only possible if two-thirds of parliament votes for it and a 12-member constitutional body  half of whom are appointed by the supreme leader  approves.

Iran saw months of nationwide anti-government protests sparked by the death in September of a 22-year-old woman who was detained by the morality police for allegedly violating the country's strict Islamic dress code. The protests rapidly escalated into calls for the overthrow of the ruling clerics, marking a major challenge to their four-decade rule.

The protests died down earlier this year amid a violent crackdown by authorities, though there are lingering signs of discontent.

Iran held referendums to establish an Islamic Republic and approve a new constitution shortly after the 1979 revolution. It held another referendum in the late 1980s to amend the constitution.
MEXICO CITY (AP)  Press freedom groups said Tuesday the Mexican government apparently continued to use Pegasus spyware to infect telephones of human rights activists as recently as late 2022, despite a pledge by President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador to stop such spying.

The activists targeted by the spyware work for the Miguel Agustin Pro Juarez human rights center. The center has been spied on in the past, and has worked to expose abuses by the government, including the Mexican Army.

The Pegasus infection was confirmed through a forensic investigation by the University of Toronto group Citizen Lab, the groups said Tuesday.

So far in the administration of President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, at least three human rights activists and two journalists have been illegally spied on with Pegasus, presumably by the Army, which, according to press information, is the only (government) agency that currently has Pegasus, according to a report by the press freedom group Article 19, The Network for the Defense of Digital Rights and Mexican media organizations.

The New York Times first reported the new hacks.

The Israeli-made spyware Pegasus spyware is available only to countries government agencies; it silently infiltrates phones or other devices to harvest data and potentially spy on their owners.

The revelation came one day after Mexico's Supreme Court struck down a 2016 regulation that had allowed the military to place wiretaps on civilians' phones without a court order.

Lopez Obrador took office in December 2018 pledging to end government spying. The president said he himself had been the victim of government surveillance for decades as an opposition leader.

Asked about the alleged hacks Tuesday in his daily press briefing, the president did not answer directly, but repeated the distinction that what his government does is intelligence gathering, not espionage.

We have a clear conscience to say that human rights are not going to be violated, no one is going to be spied on either, Lopez Obrador said. We haven't done it to anyone.

The director of the Miguel Agustin Pro Juarez human rights center, Santiago Aguirre, and the center's international affairs director were targeted in the most recent hacks.

The report said their phones were infected between June and September of 2022, while the two activists were involved in investigations and protests regarding past army abuses, including the 2014 abduction and disappearance of 43 students from a rural teachers' college.

The other previous victims included journalist and author Ricardo Raphael in 2019 and 2020, and an unnamed journalist for the online media outlet Animal Politico.

In October, the same groups released a report saying the Mexican army has allegedly continued to use spyware against targets including rights activist Raymundo Ramos. The government apparently leaked a recording of a phone call in which Ramos' voice is heard. The government says it had tapped the phone of an alleged drug trafficker, and that Ramos either was called or called the number.

Ramos has worked for years documenting military and police abuses, including multiple killings, in the drug cartel-dominated border city of Nuevo Laredo. Ramos cellphone was apparently infected with Pegasus spyware in 2020.

Leaked documents show the Mexican army has allegedly requested price quotes for surveillance programs from companies connected to the distribution of Pegasus. The report said the hacker group Guacamaya found army documents listing requests for price quotes from 2020, 2021 and 2022.

The victims of the spyware attacks said they assumed the military was responsible, because of the nature of their work and the timing of the espionage.

Mexicos Defense Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the allegations.

Lopez Obradors top security official has said that two previous administrations spent $61 million to buy Pegasus spyware.

Lopez Obrador has relied more on the military and given it more responsibilities  from building infrastructure projects to overseeing seaports and airports  than any of his predecessors.

That has raised concerns that the Mexican army  which has traditionally stayed out of politics  may be turning into a force unto itself, with little oversight or transparency.
ISLAMABAD (AP)  The reclusive top leader of the Taliban released a message Tuesday lauding the changes in Afghanistan since the Taliban takeover and the measures they imposed after seizing the country following two decades of war.

The statement from Hibatullah Akhundzada was made public ahead of the Eid al-Fitr holiday later this week that marks the end of the fasting Muslim month of Ramadan.

Akhundzada, an Islamic scholar, rarely appears in public or leaves the Taliban heartland in Afghanistan's southern Kandahar province. He surrounds himself with other religious scholars and allies who oppose education and work for women.

In recent months, Akhundzada appears to have taken a stronger hand in directing domestic policy, banning girls' education after the sixth grade and barring Afghan women from public life and work, especially for non-governmental organizations and the United Nations.

The message was distributed in five languages: Arabic, Dari, English, Pashto and Urdu. The Taliban, Akhundzada says, have taken significant reform measures in culture, education, the economy, media and other fields.

The bad intellectual and moral effects of the 20-year occupation are about to finish, he said and extolled living in the light of Sharia, or Islamic law.

This, he instructed Afghans, would lead to the well-being of our world and the hereafter, as well as eternal happiness, success and salvation of our society."

Despite initial promises of a more moderate rule than during their previous stint in power in the 1990s, the Taliban have imposed harsh measures since seizing Afghanistan in August 2021 as U.S. and NATO forces were pulling out.

The Taliban have also barred women from public spaces, like parks and gyms, and cracked down on media freedoms. The measures have triggered a fierce international uproar, increasing the country's isolation at a time when its economy has collapsed  and worsening a humanitarian crisis.

Akhundzada reiterated his call for other countries to stop interfering in Afghanistan's internal affairs, and said Afghans should not rely on others for rebuilding and reconstruction efforts. He stressed that the main goal of the Taliban struggle was implementing Islamic law in Afghanistan.

Michael Kugelman, the deputy director of the Asia program and senior associate for South Asia at the Wilson Center, said Akhundzada's message was likely an attempt to unite Afghans, including factions feuding within the Taliban, by invoking their religious ideology.

It also telegraphs defiance directed at the international community. In effect, we dont welcome your criticism and we dont need your largesse, said Kugelman.

In highlighting Taliban efforts to combat poppy production and an anti-corruption campaign, the message may also have been an attempt to shore up Taliban legitimacy in the eyes of the Afghans, said Kugelman.

Tuesday's message came just days after the Taliban shared a rare, months-old audio message from Akhundzada in which he purportedly says that Afghanistan would be ruined without justice handed out by the countrys new rulers.
IRBIL, Iraq (AP)  Iraq on Tuesday shut down a camp housing internally displaced Iraqis with alleged ties to the Islamic State group, the migration and displacement ministry announced.

The statement said the camps closure came as part of a government program aiming to end the displacement file in the country, where 1.2 million Iraqis remain internally displaced after years of conflict.

Aid workers criticized the closure as hasty and chaotic.

On Monday, residents and aid workers at the Jadah 5 camp in northern Iraqs Qayyarah  which housed some 300 families  were informed by government and security officials that they had to leave the camp by Wednesday, a day before the beginning of the Muslim celebration of Eid al-Fitr.

Iraq has long sought to close down the displacement camp, one of the last remaining in federally controlled areas, but faced pushback from aid groups concerned over the integration of vulnerable families, including many women and children, stigmatized for their perceived or real affiliation with IS.

Aid workers Tuesday said they had been locked out of the camp by security forces and residents were being evicted after being given two days notice to leave. An Associated Press correspondent who attempted to reach the camp found it surrounded by a heavy security deployment and was not allowed to access the premises.

Several official notices of closure had been sent to the camp over the past year and a half but were later delayed. This time, however, the closure came sooner than expected.

On March 23, Iraqs Ministry of Migration and Displacement sent a letter to the International Organization for Migration, which coordinates humanitarian aid in the camp, informing it that the camp would be shut down in 60 days. The letter did not cite a reason for the closure.

A spokesperson for the IOM said the organization is aware that residents have received notice that the camp will be closed but declined to comment further.

They all must leave  they dont have another option, said Ali Abbas, a spokesperson for the ministry. He said each family had been given 1,500,000 Iraqi dinar (about $1030) to find new housing.

Abbas did not give a reason for the closure decision, and it was not clear why the ministry had moved up the May deadline cited in the letter.

The ministry statement, reported by state media, said that all the displaced have returned to their original areas of residence on a voluntary basis."

The order to vacate the camp on Monday, was sudden, with no notice, said a worker with an aid organization operating in the camp, speaking on condition of anonymity for fear that the government would retaliate against the non-governmental organization. So (residents) were confused about how to leave the camp."

Another aid worker, who also spoke on condition of anonymity, said the residents were told that if they did not leave, the army will enter and kick out all those who remain, adding that ministry employees and security forces started to confiscate the (identification) documents of the people to make sure that they leave.

U.N. and NGO workers on Tuesday were prevented from entering the premises by security forces, the aid workers said, and as of the afternoon all but around 15 to 20 families had left the camp.

Camp residents often fear violence from militias and tribes if they return to their areas of origin.

Authorities began a rapid push in late 2020 to close down displacement camps across the country in an effort to push forward with recovery efforts that have lagged years after the defeat of IS. Most camps were shut, aside from those in the semi-autonomous Kurdish region, and one where returnees from the al-Hol camp in Syria are housed.

International organizations have cited pervasive violence, exploitation and lawlessness in the al-Hol camp and called for countries with citizens housed there to repatriate them.

___

Associate Press journalist Farid Abdulwahed in Mosul, Iraq, contributed to this report.
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BERLIN (AP)  Four people were severely wounded in a stabbing attack at a gym in the western German city of Duisburg, police said Tuesday evening.

No arrests were announced, and police said they were seeking one suspect. The motive of the attack was not immediately clear.

The incident occurred in the old city of Duisburg and police asked residents to stay at home and avoid the area. They said a large number of officers were at the scene of the attack, right across from the city hall.

Three people were in life-threatening condition, and one person was less severely injured, Duisburg police tweeted. All four injured people are German citizen, police tweeted without giving any further details on their identities.

According to current information, one person has injured other people with an object" at a gym, they tweeted earlier.

Police said that a stabbing or cutting weapon was used in the attack, but did not give any further details.

The attacker appeared to still be on the loose, German news agency dpa reported.

There has been no arrest, police told dpa, adding that a hunt was under way for the attacker. Investigators also said it was too early to talk about a possible motive behind the attack.

Several victims were taken to a hospital, while investigators searched the gym, dpa reported. Several witnesses to the attack, some still with their sports bags, were taken to a nearby restaurant so police could question them.

Helicopters were hovering above the gym and psychologists were brought in to help shocked witnesses.

Police said they received the first emergency calls at about 5:40 p.m. local time.

Duisburg has about 500,000 residents and is located at the junction of the Rhine and Ruhr rivers. It used to be famous for its coal mining and steel production, but has in recent decades been plagued by high unemployment and poverty.

The president of the German parliament, Baerbel Bas, who is from Duisburg, expressed shock over the attack.

Terrible. My thoughts are with the injured, Bas tweeted. I hope that the emergency services will soon be able to clear up the threatening situation.

Several hours after the attack, the operator of the gym said it deeply regretted the incident.

We deeply regret the incident at our club in Duisburg and hope that the victims will recover quickly," John Reed Fitness wrote in an email to dpa.

The gym chain, which has branches in several cities in Germany and also other countries, said it was supporting the police investigation and that the safety and health of our members and our employees are our top priority."

Last month, a gunman stormed a service at his former Jehovahs Witness hall in the northern Germany city of Hamburg, killing six people before taking his own life after police arrived.
JUBA, South Sudan (AP)  South Sudan on Tuesday reported five deaths and 91 suspected cases from an outbreak of hepatitis E in the northwest of the country.

The cases were reported in Wau city which is the capital of Western Bahr el-Ghazal State.
For a century no one knew exactly when this mesmerizing movie of San Francisco was made, or who made it.

The camera moves like a phantom, drifting steadily from 8th and Hyde down Market Street, passing life in historic San Francisco  nuns, newsboys, a lady in a white-feathered hat, horse carts, a group of young women awaiting a cable car, postal service automobiles and kids dodging traffic.

The old Flood Building, the Palace Hotel, the Chronicle building and the domed Call building pass us by to the sound of clopping hooves, whinnies, children's voices and early motor engines, before we come to a halt at the Ferry Building.

As some expert historical sleuthing revealed in 2010, nearly all these structures and many of the people in view would be lost to one of the deadliest natural disasters in the history of America, only four days after filming.

Based on the state of construction on Market Street, alongside the angle of the shadows and the time on the Ferry Building clock (3:17 p.m.), historians initially estimated it was made sometime in September 1905.

That was the date the Library of Congress settled on and was used to commemorate the 100 year anniversary of the footage in 2005, when the Exploratorium shot a modern-day version of the trip in its "A Trip Down Market Street at the Embarcadero" celebration.

But after historian David Kiehn was unable to find any historical reports of the filming  an event that would surely make the daily papers in 1905  in the archives, he revisited the footage and noticed some interesting details.

"I couldnt find a thing, and that got me even more curious," Kiehn told CBS's 60 Minutes at the time. "So, I studied the film some more and noticed there were puddles of water on the ground. That indicated to me there must have been some recent rainfall ... there was no rainfall in August or September in 1905 at all. Zero rainfall. I thought that was rather interesting. "

Kiehn then realized that the angle of the shadows combined with the time may also occur in late March/early April. But the construction meant that it couldn't have been the spring of 1905.

It must have been late March/early April 1906  a time period more monumental than any other in San Francisco history.

Sure enough, some more digging led Kiehn to an advertisement from production company "The Miles Brothers" for a movie named "A Trip Down Market Street" around that time.

San Francisco Call

A story in the San Francisco Call on March 29, 1906, reports that the brothers, Harry, Joe, Herbert and Earle Miles, were seeking permission to shoot Market Street, "one of the greatest streets in the world, and they propose to have the world learn of its magnificence."

They also sought the use of a cable car to mount their equipment, as the vibratory motion on an automobile, which they previously attempted, is "so severe that the films are blurred and print indistinctly."

Permission was granted by the city and film was made on a busy San Francisco day, April 14, 1906, four days before the earthquake and fire would destroy nearly everything seen in the film, (except the iconic Ferry Building which somehow survived the destruction.)

The advertisement for the film published in the New York Clipper on April 28 stated that the footage had been shot "just one week before the complete destruction of every building shown in the picture."

But how did the film survive the fire that destroyed 80% of San Francisco? The Miles Brothers, the first movie company in San Francisco, also had an office in New York. They fortuitously boarded a train with the developed negative three days after the shoot on April 17, saving the iconic film from destruction that leveled their San Francisco studio on Market Street the morning after they left.

In 2020, a film restoration tech company, neural.love, brought the video to life. Exhaustive methods using machine learning and artificial intelligence to colorize and sharpen old movies transformed the scene into the smooth 60-frames-per-second, vivid cityscape below.

And while the street at first appears to be filled with traffic, as bicycles, horse carts and motor cars cut each other off, closer inspection reveals one of the cars circles the camera 10 times.

"Today we will time travel to San Francisco in April of 1906," neural.love's Denis Shiryaev, says over the opening of the footage. "Have a nice time travel experience."

See the historic footage below.
I fly so much that I pride myself on having my airport routine down pat to ensure I make it through security without any problems. Regardless, long lines and strict rules mean airport security is never fun.

In October 2021, I was traveling to LAX to catch a work flight to the Reno airport. When I arrived at the terminal, I saw the security line swirling down the stairs, but I wasnt worried  Id arrived at the airport with plenty of time to get to the gate and even grab breakfast before boarding.

As I walked toward the line, someone stopped me and asked if I was interested in bypassing it. I followed the associate to a Clear machine, where he guided me to enter my information. I had heard about the airport security shortcut Clear before, but it freaked me out that they scan your face to log you in. Where does all that information go?

Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

For $189 a year, a Clear Plus membership grants you front-of-the-line access at airport security. The service uses biometrics (i.e., scanning your eyes or fingerprints) to confirm your identity, meaning you can keep your passport or ID in your bag. All you have to do is scan your boarding pass, and your face or fingers, at one of the Clear pods to check in. From there, a Clear employee escorts you to the screening area, bypassing the general line and taking you straight to an airport security agent.

I guess I couldve told the employee, No thanks, but it felt rude. Down the rabbit hole I went  filling out my information and letting the Clear pod scan my eyes, fingerprints and passport. Within five minutes, the machine knew where I lived and the school I had attended to confirm my identity. Five minutes later, I bypassed the hourlong security line and reached my terminal.

Clear might seem like TSA PreCheck with a more expensive price tag  but the program offers different perks. TSA PreCheck is an expedited screening process offered by the Transportation Security Administration. But it's hardly Americas best-kept secret or a travel hack anymore.

The program launched in 2013 and reached 10 million members in 2020, according to TSA, which also reported that between March 2019 and February 2020, 18% more people registered compared with the previous year. And although 89% of TSA PreCheck travelers waited five minutes or less in March 2023, passengers using the service have complained about the TSA PreCheck line sometimes being longer than the regular security line for years.

Joe Raedle/Getty Images

Comparatively, Clear lets you cut the line, but if you dont have TSA PreCheck, you still have to follow regular security procedures. The most sophisticated (or impatient) passengers might want both. And, for what it's worth, Clear promises that you own your biometric data and that it wont use your data with new technology or new partners without your approval. (Clear cant sell it, either.)

Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images

Clear is $189 a year, but you can apply directly at the airport within minutes, and its available to any traveler. TSA PreCheck has a lengthier approval process, and disqualifying offenses could keep you from being approved. Remember, this is a precheck, so you have to prove to the agency in advance that youre not a danger to yourself or others. Critics have accused the screening process of ableism due to its strict requirements for people diagnosed with a mental illness. After your application is approved, you finish the process in person at an enrollment center (one of the easiest ways to find one is to check your local Staples). But the application fee is only $78, and the approval lasts five years.

Joe Raedle/Getty Images

On my way back from my trip to Reno, I decided to put Clear to the test. I slept in and left my hotel with only an hour to get to my terminal. But when I arrived at security and saw the line wrapped around the building, I was confused  where was the Clear pod? Imagine my horror: Clear was nowhere to be found. I felt guilty when I waited only two minutes because I had wandered into an unmonitored Delta priority line looking for my special perks. But I was also grateful  because I wouldn't have made my flight otherwise (thanks for nothing, Clear).

While TSA PreCheck is available at more than 200 airports (including its first international airport, Lynden Pindling in Nassau, Bahamas), Clear is available at only 52 U.S. airports. However, just by having the free Clear app, you can bypass the line at some stadiums and other venues  no membership needed. (An SFGATE staffer loves Clear for bypassing the security line at Oracle Park; the entrance is right in front at the Willie Mays Gate).

As for me, I canceled Clear after my three-month free trial. I couldnt justify the price tag when Im most often traveling internationally, which means I cant use it on the way back. But if you find yourself running through major U.S. airports on a regular basis, Clear might be worth it to get that extra hour of sleep.

This story was updated at 1:35 p.m., April 18, to correct the number of airports Clear is available in and how to use the Clear app at stadiums and other venues.
Ethiopia is deeply concerned about the fighting between the Sudan Armed Forces and Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and calls for a peaceful resolution of the conflict, State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, Mesganu Arga, said.

Arga held a discussion on Tuesday with the Sudanese ambassador in Ethiopia, Jamal El-Sheikh, regarding the current situation in the African country.

He reaffirmed the support of the Ethiopian government for a peaceful resolution to the conflict in the interest of the people of Sudan.

He also stressed the need to resolve the conflict through dialogue and expressed his confidence that Ethiopians and the staff of Ethiopias diplomatic mission in Sudan would receive proper protection.

On Monday, Ethiopia's PM Abiy Ahmed said in a statement posted on his official Twitter account, We in Ethiopia have a deep belief that the Sudanese people have all the wisdom to overcome the situation they are going through now."

He warned against what he described as "any attempts with hidden motives and agendas to interfere in Sudanese affairs that seek to destroy the country's capabilities."

Additionally, the goal of any interference in Sudanese affairs should aim to achieve reconciliation between brothers and establish peace.

As the fighting rages, more regional and international powers called for a ceasefire in the country to avert a humanitarian crisis in the country and allow for dialogue.

Since the start of fighting on Saturday, millions of Sudanese, in the capital and elsewhere in the country, have been hiding in homes without adequate supplies.

Many found themselves caught in the crossfire as the two warring sides battle it out in street fights using light and heavy weaponry.

More than 185 have been killed and 1,800 wounded since the fighting began, according to UN estimates.

The Sudan Doctors Syndicate estimated that at least 144 civilians were killed and more than 1,400 were wounded.

The overall death toll could be much higher because clashes on the streets of Khartoum have impeded the removal of bodies in some areas.

A 24-hour ceasefire reportedly reached between Sudan's rival generals went into effect on Tuesday, but fighting continued in the capital and it was unclear whether it would hold.

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WFO SHREVEPORT Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Tuesday, April 18, 2023

_____

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT

Special Weather Statement

National Weather Service Shreveport LA

1118 AM CDT Tue Apr 18 2023

...A strong thunderstorm will impact portions of southeastern Smith,

northwestern Rusk, southwestern Gregg and north central Cherokee

Counties through NOON CDT...

At 1117 AM CDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm over

Arp, or 7 miles east of Whitehouse, moving northeast at 25 mph.

HAZARD...Winds in excess of 40 mph and penny size hail.

SOURCE...Radar indicated.

IMPACT...Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around

unsecured objects. Minor damage to outdoor objects is

possible.

Locations impacted include...

Tyler, Longview, Henderson, Kilgore, Whitehouse, Overton, Troup, New

London, Arp, Joinerville, Mixon, Turnertown, Lakeport, New Chapel

Hill, Rolling Meadows, Monroe, Laird Hill and Oak Hill.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.

Frequent cloud to ground lightning is occurring with this storm.

Lightning can strike 10 miles away from a thunderstorm. Seek a safe

shelter inside a building or vehicle.

This storm may intensify, so be certain to monitor local radio

stations and available television stations for additional information

and possible warnings from the National Weather Service.

LAT...LON 3253 9470 3220 9470 3204 9524 3225 9535

TIME...MOT...LOC 1617Z 246DEG 23KT 3222 9509

MAX HAIL SIZE...0.75 IN

MAX WIND GUST...40 MPH

_____

Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
Economic activity in the People's Republic of China accelerated by more than expected at the start of 2023, leading some economists to bump up their forecasts for full-year growth.

According to the National Bureau of Statistics, over the first quarter, gross domestic product expacted at a 4.5% year-on-year pace Bloomberg: 4.0%).

In terms of quarterly rates of expansion, GDP moved ahead at a clip of 2.2%, up from 0.6% over the last three months of the previous year.

And according to Julian Evans-Pritchard, head of China economics at Capital Economics, GDP was headed towards growth of over 7.0% during the second quarter.

GDP growth during the third quarter was led by services, where output jumped by 5.4% on the year.

Seperate monthly figures for March, that were also released on Tuesday, revealed an annual rate of growth in retail sales of 10.6% (Bloomberg: 7.5%) for the month of March.

"This was partly due to favourable base effects from a year ago when several large cities entered lockdowns, Evans-Pritchard said.

"But our estimates suggest sales continued to rise in seasonally adjusted terms too."

Industrial output was up by 3.9% on the year, against growth or 2.4% during the prior quarter (Bloomberg: 4.4%).

Iris Pang at ING said weaker demand in the US and Europe accounted for the modest rate of growth of industrial production and noted the contraction seen in most electronics production as a result of the US export bans.

On the other hand, fixed asset investment rose by 5.1% in March (Bloomberg: 5.7%), which implied a slowdown in the year-on-year pace of growth from the month.

"Admittedly, industry appears to have lost some momentum this month. But the signals on services remain positive," Evans-Pritchard said.

"Our mobility tracker reached a new high in recent days, while consumer confidence has strengthened further according to an IPSOS survey published last week."

Evans-Pritchard said Chinese GDP growth might hit 6% in 2023.

"And in practice, growth is likely to be even higher given that the official GDP figures understated the extent of last years downturn."

For her part, Pang said the data showed there was no immediate need for massive stimulus from the government and that the yuan should strengthen to 6.5 against the Greenback by the end of 2023.

Nonetheless, Pang believed that Beijing would stick to its plans for infrastructure investment given the expected deterioration overseas.

Duncan Wrigley, chief China+ economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics agreed that authorities would stick to their current policy settings, albeit while monitoring the longevity of the recovery in the private sector.

He also said that policymakers had "much to cheer about" in the first quarter economic data.

Yet among the things that might worry Beijing were private sector investment, which grew by 0.6% year-on-year in Q1, against growth of 10.0% at state-owned enterprises.

Another potential source of concern was that March's sharp rise in exports was expected to fade in the back half of 2023, due to a slowing global economy.

Nonetheless, he mused out loud that: "The biggest question is whether the current consumption rebound has sufficient stamina to power the economy through the rest of the year.

"We see the current consumption bounce as reflecting the release of pent-up demand and spending by well-off urban households with secure jobs.
No sooner had the first hour of the ceasefire between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces entered into force on Tuesday than the sounds of gunfire were heard in the capital Khartoum resulting in a violation of the agreement.

A 24-hour ceasefire reportedly reached between Sudan's rival generals went into effect on Tuesday, but fighting continued in the capital and it was unclear whether it would hold.

Residents said they still heard gunfire and explosions in different parts of Khartoum, particularly around the militarys headquarters and the Republican Palace, the seat of power. They said few people had ventured out, though there were crowds outside some bakeries.

The fighting remains underway, Atiya Abdulla Atiya of the Sudan Doctors Syndicate told The Associated Press. We are hearing constant gunfire.

The truce between Sudan's military and a paramilitary group known as the Rapid Support Forces came into effect at 6 p.m. local time on the fourth day of heavy fighting.

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Inflection Point Ventures, one of Indias largest angel investment networks, has announced a collaborative partnership with the IITMAA to enhance a deeper and better understanding of startup investing and the startup ecosystem among the alums. As part of this collaboration, IPV would be hosting curated masterclasses, knowledge sessions, meetups with Marquee investors and other events that will help IIT alums become more aware of this asset class.

Through this partnership, IPV aims to facilitate startup investing by allowing interested IIT alums to invest in startups that are founded by IIT alums and others as part of the IPV platform. IPV will participate as an investment and knowledge partner for relevant events hosted by IITMAA.

IITMAAs primary mission is to enable professional networking among alumni, between professors and alumni, as well as networking of current students with alumni for mutual benefit in academic, professional, and business areas; including Employment Network for new graduates and alumni looking for a career upgrade or change, and alumni displaced from the workforce.

With this collaboration, IPV and IITMAA strongly believe it would benefit you (alumni of IIT Madras) in understanding and creating an additional investment asset class, portfolio diversification & long-term wealth creation by way of investing in startups.

Ankur Mittal, Co-founder, of Inflection Point Ventures, says, At IPV, we believe that startup investment has the potential to emerge as a long-term wealth creation asset class. As more startup success stories emerge from India, we are seeing a clear trend of the young workforce and even seasoned professionals leaning toward startup investments. While we have one of the largest investor networks of seasoned professionals, through alumni partnerships like IITMAA, we are keen to bring the benefits, pros and cons of startup investing to a younger audience and we hope to introduce them to our vast network and domain expertise built over the years.

Through this partnership IPV will help IITMAA alums to connect and interact with fellow alumni of IITMAA who are already a part of IPV investor community group and IITMAA as a reciprocation will be introducing IPV to Global chapters and host in-person events and other events like fishmarket where the alums present their business/startup to the IIT community. In these events IPV will be invited as a knowledge-sharing partner, investment partner, and speaker to spread awareness with respect to startup and angel investing.

Nishani Manohar, Executive Director, IITMAA says, IITMAA has collaborated with IPV to engage its alums who would be looking forward to learning more about startup investing and build a robust Start-Up ecosystem for IITM Alumni Startups. The collaboration will enable IPV to share their knowledge and expertise with us, to improve startup & investor experiences and ensure future growth.

As a part of this partnership, IITMAA will provide IPV with exclusive access to their events, which would enhance awareness around startup investing and the ecosystem in general for the participants.

IPV on the other hand will extend a warm invitation to IITMAA to join us at our in-person events, where they can connect with like-minded individuals and learn more about the latest trends and innovations in the startup world.

This win-win partnership is expected to create more angel investors and a vibrant startup ecosystem in India and provide an umbrella structure to oversee the innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem of the country. It will empower IIT alums to become more active participants in the startup community while also providing entrepreneurs with new opportunities to access capital and support.
Jio Institute has tied up with the US-based Principals' Training Center (PTC) to share its uniquely designed training programmes for educators and school leaders in India. PTC caters to the unique professional learning needs of practicing and aspiring principals, teachers, heads of departments, counsellors, and board members of schools worldwide.

It provides world-class, research-driven, practical training, designed to be put into practice in K-12 schools. "Collaboration between the Jio Institute and Principals' Training Center is a powerful alliance to bring innovative educational practices and training to our schools that can pave the way for a brighter future for our students," said Dr G Ravichandran, Provost, Jio Institute, in a statement.

"Significant research confirms that school leaders can have a meaningful impact on student learning. The exciting work ahead is to ensure every single school leader acquires the skills to make that impact," added Bambi Betts, Executive Director at Principals' Training Center. The first PTC course being launched in India -- Creating an Effective School -- offers the knowledge and skills for school leaders to articulate a vision to design and implement a plan for an effective school focused on student learning and improving outcomes.

It addresses the 'big picture' of what schools are and how leaders can optimise conditions to maximise learning by focusing on results. All PTC courses utilise simulations, case studies and other practical training strategies. The course content has been tailored to meet the requirements of the Indian context.

The course is open to educators and leaders from across all educational boards and schools -- international schools, CBSE schools, ICSE schools, and schools affiliated to state education boards. The seven-day residential programme will be offered from May 22 to 28 at the Jio Institute's campus in Ulwe (Navi Mumbai). Scholarships will be provided to select candidates based on merit.
Breezy half-centuries by Devon Conway and Shivam Dune helped Chennai Super Kings post a massive 226/6 in 20 overs against Royal Challengers Bangalore in Match 24 of the 16th edition of Indian Premier League at the M. Chennaswamy stadium.

Conway started slowly but struck some brilliant shots in a superb display of power-hitting, blasting 83 off 45 deliveries while Dube smashed 52 off 27 balls, blasting five towering sixes, as CSK made superb use of a good pitch and feasted on the Royal Challengers Bangalore bowling as skipper Faf du Plessis missed a trick or two by failing to make better use of his spinners after opting to bowl first.

Harshal Patel sent down two waist-high full-tosses in the final over and Glenn Maxwell had to bowl the last three balls of that over. Ravindra Jadeja smacked him for a six over long-on but was out in the next legal delivery as Chennai Super Kings reached a massive score. Moeen Ali remained not out on 19 from nine deliveries as Ambati Rayudu (14 off 6) and Ravindra Jadeja (10 off 8) struck some lusty blows as CSK made good use of the opportunity and set RCB the biggest chase of IPL 2023.

Despite losing the prolific Ruturaj Gaikwad (3 off 6) with only 16 runs on the board, Chennai Super Kings reached 53/1 in the Power-play, with the left-right combination of Devon Conway and Ajinkya Rahane as they raised 74 runs for the second wicket partnership.

After his first few shots landed in no man's land but failed to reach the boundary, Rahane hooked Vijaykumar Vyshak onto the roof of the Chinnaswamy Stadium and then lashed Wayne Parnell to extra-cover fence in the 6th over before ending the Power-play by pulling Parnell over short fine-leg for maximum followed by flicking the South African bowler to the midwicket boundary.

Just when it looked like Rahane will race to his second half-century of IPL 2023, he fell victim to a Hasaranga wrong'un, swinging in vain as the ball crashes into the off-stump. Rahane made 37 off 20 balls, hitting three fours and two sixes.

Conway, on the other hand, whipped Parnell to the midwicket fence and then scooped him over the fine-leg boundary for a six. The Black Caps opener rolled out the scoop for a boundary off Vyshak before launching Glenn Maxwell straight of wide long-on for a maximum. Harshal Patel was swatted away for six over the midwicket fence while Wanindu Hasaranga got the same medicine when he dropped one short outside off-stump as he completed his back-to-back half-century.

The 31-year-old Conway ended the 10th over by despatching a Hasaranga wrong'un for four. He hammered Vyshak for a couple of boundaries and a six over the fine-leg boundary in the 12th over as RCB conceded 16 runs. Shivam Dube smacked Siraj for a four and a six in the 14th over and blasted Vyshak for two sixes in the next over and followed it up with a boundary off a wide yorker to claim 18 runs as CSK were cruising with 165/2 at the end of the 15th over. He ramped a short one from Harshal Patel to the third-man boundary.

However, Patel made the breakthrough for RCB when he castled Conway with a brilliant slow-dipping yorker, ending the Black Caps opener's superb innings for 83 (off 45 balls, 6x4, 6x6). CSK were 171/3 as the teams went into the strategic timeout. As Parnell came back into the attack, Dube greeted him with a six straight down the ground as he completed his fifty off 25 balls. Parnell had the last laugh as he cut on the pace again and had Dube (52 off 27 balls, 2x4, 5x6) caught inches away from the boundary rope at deep midwicket as Mohammed Siraj pouched a superb catch.

Moeen Ali launched the second ball he faced from Parnell for a straight six. Ambati Rayudu then blasted a four and six off successive deliveries by Vyshak before he was out, deceived by a leg-cutter and holing out a skier to Dinesh Karthik. Moeen blasted a six off Siraj's first delivery of the 19th over as CSK crossed the psychological 200-run mark.

Vijaykumar Vyshak, who claimed three wickets in his debut match, was hammered for 62 runs off his four overs while Wayne Parnell conceded 1-48 of his quota. Hasaranga surprisingly was given only two overs as he ended up with 1-21.
Iraq on Tuesday shut down a camp housing internally displaced Iraqis with alleged ties to the Islamic State group, the migration and displacement ministry announced.

The statement said the camps closure came as part of a government program aiming to end the displacement file in the country, where 1.2 million Iraqis remain internally displaced after years of conflict.

Aid workers criticized the closure as hasty and chaotic.

On Monday, residents and aid workers at the Jadah 5 camp in northern Iraqs Qayyarah  which housed some 300 families  were informed by government and security officials that they had to leave the camp by Wednesday, a day before the beginning of the Muslim celebration of Eid al-Fitr.

Iraq has long sought to close down the displacement camp, one of the last remaining in federally controlled areas, but faced pushback from aid groups concerned over the integration of vulnerable families, including many women and children, stigmatized for their perceived or real affiliation with IS.

Aid workers Tuesday said they had been locked out of the camp by security forces and residents were being evicted after being given two days notice to leave. An Associated Press correspondent who attempted to reach the camp found it surrounded by a heavy security deployment and was not allowed to access the premises.

Several official notices of closure had been sent to the camp over the past year and a half but were later delayed. This time, however, the closure came sooner than expected.

On March 23, Iraqs Ministry of Migration and Displacement sent a letter to the International Organization for Migration, which coordinates humanitarian aid in the camp, informing it that the camp would be shut down in 60 days. The letter did not cite a reason for the closure.

A spokesperson for the IOM said the organization is aware that residents have received notice that the camp will be closed but declined to comment further.

They all must leave , they dont have another option, said Ali Abbas, a spokesperson for the ministry. He said each family had been given 1,500,000 Iraqi dinar (about $1030) to find new housing.

Abbas did not give a reason for the closure decision, and it was not clear why the ministry had moved up the May deadline cited in the letter.

The ministry statement, reported by state media, said that all the displaced have returned to their original areas of residence on a voluntary basis."

The order to vacate the camp on Monday, was sudden, with no notice, said a worker with an aid organization operating in the camp, speaking on condition of anonymity for fear that the government would retaliate against the non-governmental organization. So (residents) were confused about how to leave the camp."

Another aid worker, who also spoke on condition of anonymity, said the residents were told that if they did not leave, the army will enter and kick out all those who remain, adding that ministry employees and security forces started to confiscate the (identification) documents of the people to make sure that they leave.

U.N. and NGO workers on Tuesday were prevented from entering the premises by security forces, the aid workers said, and as of the afternoon all but around 15 to 20 families had left the camp.

Camp residents often fear violence from militias and tribes if they return to their areas of origin.

Authorities began a rapid push in late 2020 to close down displacement camps across the country in an effort to push forward with recovery efforts that have lagged years after the defeat of IS. Most camps were shut, aside from those in the semi-autonomous Kurdish region, and one where returnees from the al-Hol camp in Syria are housed.

International organizations have cited pervasive violence, exploitation, and lawlessness in the al-Hol camp and called for countries with citizens housed there to repatriate them.

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Brilliant half-centuries by Glenn Maxwell and Faf du Plessis went in vain as Chennai Super Kings chipped in with timely wickets to prevail over Royal Challengers by eight runs in Match 24 of IPL 2023 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. Maxwell struck a 36-ball 76, smashing three fours and eight sixes while and Du Plessis hammered a 33-ball 62 as they came together for a sensational counter-attacking 126-run partnership for the third wicket that helped Royal Challengers Bangalore recover from 15/2 in the second over to keep on course for a massive chase.

RCB were up against it chasing the highest target of 227 and thanks to the brilliant batsmanship of Maxwell and Du Plessis came close to the target before being restricted to 218/8 in 20 overs, losing by eight runs. The bats dominated the ball in this Southern Derby as 444 aggregate runs were scored in the match in which Tushar Deshpande of Chennai Super Kings emerged as the best bowler with 3-45 off four overs. In all 33 sixes were hit in two innings combined as the two teams put up a splendid display of big hitting. Though CSK won the match, they were lucky as they dropped around half a dozen catches. However, Ajiankya Rahane saved eight runs at the boundary and that ended up as the difference between the two teams.

Chasing a massive target of 227, the highest this season so far, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) got off to a poor start as Virat Kohli fell cheaply, dragging on an under edge onto his body and then the stump as he moved away to hit Akash Singh, who came in for Ambati Rayudu as Impact Player, out of the ground. Kohli was out for 6 (4 balls, 1x4).

Maheesh Theekshana dropped a sitter, running back from mid-off of the last ball of the first over as Mahipal Lomror survived a chance. But he was out without troubling the scorer, offering a dolly to Ruturaj Gaikwad at cover-point off Tushar Deshpande.

Skipper Faf du Plessis and Glenn Maxwell set on the repair job with brilliant counter-attacking half-centuries as RCB maintained their chances for a successful chase. Maxwell smashed two sixes off Akash Singh in the third over, flicked Theekshana for a six over the backward square and bashed a four and six off successive deliveries by fellow Sri Lankan Matheesha Pathirana in the eighth over. He smacked Ravindra Jadeja for a boundary and then smashed back-to-back fours off Pathirana to complete his fifty in 20 balls.

Du Plessis kept up the scoring rate from the other end as he capitalised on an early drop off a difficult chance by Dhoni for a boundary to smash two fours and a six off Deshpande in the fourth over and smacked Akash Singh to a six and four off successive deliveries, whipping, cutting and driving with relish. He brought of the fifty of their partnership with a six over the long-off boundary of Theekshana and went on to complete his half-century off 23 balls.

Maxwell continued his power-hitting at the other end, bashing a couple of sixes as they completed their century partnership in 47 balls, putting up an extraordinary display of shot-making. Theeksahana made the breakthrough for CSK when he got Maxwell to sky a length ball sent wide and Dhoni completed an easy catch. Maxwell's brilliant 76 came off 36 deliveries and was studded with three boundaries and eight maximums.

Faf was dropped by Theekshana off his own bowling in the 11th over but was soon caught by Dhoni as he top-edged Moeen Ali as both set batters got out and CSK roared back into the match as RCB slumped to 159/4 in the 14th over.

Shahbaz Ahmed made 12 off 10 and Dinesh Karthik smashed 28 off 14 balls as CSK continued to chip in with wickets as RCB batters chased the big asking rate. With 31 runs needed off the last two overs, Suyash Prabhudessai pulled Deshpande over the deep midwicket boundary and then with 19 needed off the final six balls, he struck Pathirana for a six with a reverse scoop on the third delivery but Pathirana had the last laugh as he got Prabhudessasi holing out at deep midwicket as CSK won by eight runs.
Razorpay, a digital payments provider to businesses, has built an independent advisory board and hired former deputy governor of the Reserve Bank of India N Vishwanathan, along with other industry experts, to assist it with aspects of governance, compliance and risk management practices, as it scales.

The newly formed council would also help contribute to the development of Razorpays payment infrastructure and engage with key institutions and stakeholders, the company said in a news release.

Vishwanathan would chair the board. Its other members include former State Bank of India managing director Arijit Basu, former telecom and IT secretary Aruna Sundararajan and KP Krishnan, who was secretary at the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.

Razorpay is setting up the advisory board amidst increasing regulatory scrutiny of the fintech sector. The RBI has barred the firm from inducting new merchants over issues linked to its payment aggregator licence.

Last month, the Enforcement Directorate filed a prosecution complaint in a Bengaluru court against seven entities and five individuals, including Razorpay, linked to the Chinese loan app case. Since last year, the ED that handles money-laundering cases has been conducting raids on major gateways including Razorpay, Cashfree and Paytm, related to the issue.

In its statement, the firm said the key subject areas of the advisory board would include - accelerating product innovation around customer experience and customer safety, building practices for regulatory and compliance management processes, working with various stakeholders to increase risk monitoring and cybercrime prevention, as well as building new processes around digital information security which might help shape the future of fintech ecosystem.

Indias fintech ecosystem is at a crucial juncture in its evolution. With India serving as a benchmark for several nations today, it is pertinent that companies like ours are future-ready and agile to adapt to the ever-changing fintech environment  we have a strong intent to put in place further systems to uphold the highest standards of customer-experience and governance, stated Harshil Mathur, cofounder and chief executive at Razorpay.

The advisory board will also aid Razorpay in developing long-term strategies, anticipating challenges and suggesting mitigation measures.

Vishwanathan said the advisory board would provide the Razorpay leadership with guidance and expertise in helping it adopt governance and compliance practices.

Razorpay claims to have 10 million merchants on its platform. The firm was valued at $7.5 billion in December 2021 when it raised $375 million.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- After purchasing eight Staten Island-based car dealerships formerly owned by the Manfredi family in 2015 and acquiring Manfredi Chevrolet in 2021, Island Auto Group (IAG) became one of the largest multi-franchise sales and service organizations in the Northeast.

Selling Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram, Subaru, Mazda, Hyundai, Kia, Toyota and Volkswagen cars, serving drivers in Brooklyn, Jersey City, Newark, Long Island City, Woodridge and New York City, the company represented just about every brand of automobile around. And now IAG is expanding its stock once again, purchasing the Dongan Hills-based Buick GMC dealership last week.

We feel fortunate to add Buick GMC to our portfolio, noted Marcello Sciarrino, one of IAGs partners, explaining that the dealership was previously owned by a hedge fund before being acquired by Group 1, a large public company with no Staten Island ties.

They were based out of Texas with no footprint here in the borough, Sciarrino said. When they decided to sell, they reached out to us. We were excited to expand and add these brands to our roster.

Located at 1855 Hylan Blvd. next to Staples, the dealership will become part of what Sciarrino dubbed as a super center of car needs.

Our goal is to make it easier for Staten Island residents to buy a car, a sort of one-stop shop for every car brand, Sciarrino said. The pandemic proved that people crave convenience, so weve made it possible to shop online or in store and even opt for home delivery of your vehicle.

All of IAGs service departments are customer friendly too: Theres self check-in kiosks, a loaner program and an option for at-home pick-up and drop-off.

Theres no extra charge for these services, Sciarrino said. These are added conveniences that speak to the strength of our brand.

With the acquisition of Staten Island Buick GMC, Island Auto Group now represents 14 brands across 18 dealerships in the Northeast, including locations in New Jersey, Long Island and both Rockland and Westchester counties.

The groups Staten Island presence is its strongest, operating nine stores along Hylan Boulevard. In total, IAGs dealerships employ more than 400 people in the borough.

We started this business 11 years ago and feel so blessed that it has grown and prospered, Sciarrino said. Its a family-owned business, operated by myself, Josh Aaronson, Jory and Ron Baron, and our goal has always been to give back to the community. With the brands and services we offer here, you dont need to go off the Island, you dont need to go to different auto groups to buy a car. IAG is the one-stop shop for all your automotive needs.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- If youre a fan of the classic McDonalds cheeseburger  with its chopped onion, pickle, ketchup combo and softly toasted bun  get ready for a change. The fast-food chain is revamping several of its menu staples, and the popular sandwich is about to get a makeover.

We found that small changes, like tweaking our process to get hotter, meltier cheese and adjusting our grill settings for a better sear, added up to a big difference in making our burgers more flavorful than ever, Chef Chad Schafer, senior director of culinary innovation for McDonalds USA, noted in a statement on Monday when the company announced the impending change.

The Big Mac, McDouble, Double Cheeseburger and Hamburger are all getting an upgrade too, each sandwich getting a softer, more pillowy bun and cheese thats a little more meltier than usual. A juicier, caramelized flavor will result from adding white onions to the patties while theyre still on the grill, and as per customer request, more Big Mac sauce will be slathered onto the restaurants most famous burger.

The changes have already been tested in international markets like Australia, Canada and Belgium, the company explained, noting that most U.S. restaurants should see the upgrades sometime this year.

Weve already started rolling them out in several cities on the West Coast, and customers will be able to taste the difference at all restaurants nationwide by 2024, McDonalds noted in a press release.

To market the change, the company is bringing back its infamous Hamburglar, a character made popular in the 1980s.

Keep your eyes peeled for our very own red-handed fugitive (the OG hamburger influencer) who is back to his old burger-snatching tricks in our newest TV commercial, the press release stated. When you spot his notorious cape and striped outfit in your city, youll know thats when you can head to your local McDonalds to get your hands on our best-ever burgers.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Hundreds of Staten Island youth were encouraged to stand up to hate during an event that served as a poignant reminder of the atrocities committed during the Holocaust.

The Wagner College Holocaust Center on Tuesday held its largest Youth Stand Up to Hate day during Yom Hashoah, or Holocaust Remembrance Day. It brought together at least 1,500 people, including students from several schools, educators, community leaders, special guests and more, at the St. George Theatre.

We are here to stand united against hate and indifference in all its forms on the 80th anniversary of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, said Lori Weintrob, director of the Wagner College Holocaust Center. The intimate stories of your neighbors  six Holocaust survivors  inspire courage  Listen to the words of these survivors as they are performed by Wagner College students. These survivors lived, but many members of their families are among the 6 million Jews who were murdered in six death camps and 400 concentration camps.

Among the partners in sponsoring the event were the Staten Island Hate Crimes Task Force and the Richmond County District Attorneys office, Staten Island Advance/SiLive.com, the Alan and Joan Bernikow Jewish Community Center, the Jewish Community Relations Council of New York, the Council of Jewish Organizations of Staten Island, the Jewish Foundation School and Department of Education District 31 Deputy Superintendent Christine Chavez.

Those who cannot remember the past are doomed to repeat it but today, in recognition of Yom HaShoah, we made certain that thousands of young Staten Islanders were educated on the atrocities of the Holocaust while also celebrating five Staten Island educators for their commitment to promoting anti-bias and tolerance in the classroom, said District Attorney Michael E. McMahon.

In what was our boroughs largest Youth Stand Up to Hate day, I was honored to stand alongside my partners in the Wagner College Holocaust Center and Theater Department to sponsor Rising Up: Young Holocaust Heroes in an effort to highlight the truly awe-inspiring stories of six Staten Island survivors and to ensure that hate will never have a home on our shores for generations to come.

RISING UP

During the commemoration event, students at Wagner College performed the original play, Rising Up: Young Holocaust Heroes, which traces the childhood relationships, growing challenges of the Nazi era, and courage and resilience of six survivors who lived on Staten Island. The musical was written by co-written by Weintrob, Theresa McCarthy, and Martin Moran, and directed by Mickey Tennenbaum, adjunct professor of theater at Wagner College, who is a child of Holocaust survivors.

It follows graduate student Tali, played by Molly Nemirow, who encounters six teenagers caught in war and genocide  Margot (Tina Jean-Louis), Hannah (Taitum Eddington), Egon (Viraj Shriwardhanker), Romi (Nicholas Nunez), Rachel (Caitlyn Efner) and Gabi (Leslie Baez).

Throughout the play, the six survivors share experiences during the Holocaust using spoken word and song. By the end of the storytelling, the graduate student then wonders how youth can rise up and prevent something similar from happening again. It encouraged the crowd of youths to not turn away when there is hatred.

The play concluded with the same motif throughout  singing, rise up, we are here to stay.

Holocaust survivor Arthur Spielman attended the event, as well as the families of the six survivors who are featured in the play.

COMMUNITY MEMBERS HONORED

Awards were also presented by Wagner College Provost Tarshia Stanley to five educators who inspired thousands of youth with their commitment to anti-bias and Holocaust work.

We now honor five heroes from our own community who are committed to teaching the lessons of the Holocaust at a moment of rising racism, anti-Semitism and prejudice. This type of work on the frontlines is essential, said Stanley.

Ruth Garber, principal of the Jewish Foundation School of Staten Island, as well as the school itself, received the School Partnership Award for Holocaust Remembrance. Traci Frey, former and retired deputy superintendent of District 31, received the award for Leadership in Holocaust and Anti-bias Education.

Bobby Digi was named the Community Builder of the Year, and Dr. Vanessa Smith Washington, assistant professor of education at Wagner College, received the Upstander Award.

Christine Chavez, deputy superintendent of District 31, presented the Holocaust Educator of the Year award to Jennifer Hermus Washburn for her 16 years of work at Susan Wagner High School.

Above all, the message of today is be an upstander, said Weintrob. This is urgent work among rising anti-Semitism, racism and all forms of prejudice.

The event is part of the Arts in Education program at the St. George Theatre, with support from several sponsors, including lead sponsors of the Richmond County District Attorneys Office and Hate Crimes Task Force.

Other partners, included: the Staten Island Advance/SILive.com; the Alan and Joan Bernikow Jewish Community Center; Jewish Community Relations Council-NY; the Council of Jewish Organizations of Staten Island; United Federation of Teachers; and Chai Society of Wagner College.

The St. George Theatres Arts-in-Education Live Performance Series is sponsored by Richmond University Medical Center and Con Edison.

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IN CLASS: This feature is part of an ongoing education column highlighting the various activities that engage school communities.

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  A Staten Island high school student was announced as a finalist for a prestigious college scholarship, which means she will receive up to $55,000 annually to attend college.

Omosefe Noruwa, a senior at Curtis High School, is a finalist for the Jack Kent Cooke Foundations Cooke College Scholarship  chosen as one of 60 students from 626 semi-finalists across the nation who will receive financial assistance of up to $55,000 each year to cover their attendance at a top college or university.

This years College Scholarship applicants are full of potential and determination, said Seppy Basili, executive director of the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation. We congratulate them and look forward to seeing how the next steps in their educational journeys unfold.

The Advance/SILive.com spoke with Omosefe earlier this year  featuring her in the Black History Month special series, Impact & Excellence, which profiled Staten Islanders who are working to make an important, lasting impact.

Omosefe is currently the student body president at Curtis High School.

She is also the CEO of Promote An Early Education (PME), a tutoring initiative she brainstormed when she was 15 years old. The program, which she founded in 2022, aims to bridge the gap between high-achieving minority or underrepresented high school students in the borough with low-income underrepresented middle school students, so that the younger students can have a role model who is passionate, self-driven and looks like them.

Omosefe is headed to Harvard University in the fall to pursue degrees in neuroscience and economics.

This year, students applied for the Cooke College Scholarship from all 50 states, as well as Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, Northern Mariana Islands and Virgin Islands. The foundation evaluated each submission, and selected scholars based on their academic ability, persistence, leadership and financial need.

These 60 scholars join the 45 current Cooke Young Scholars selected earlier in March to continue to receive the organizations support. Together, both groups form the 2023 cohort of 105 Cooke College Scholars.

STATEN ISLAND NATIVE SECURES MEDICAL RESIDENCY

Sylvia Marshall, a Staten Island native who is graduating in the spring from the medical school at New York Institute of Technology in Long Island, N.Y., will continue her studies in ophthalmology at the University of Buffalo. (Courtesy/Steven Gaines, NYITCOM)

A medical student, who is a native from Staten Island, has secured an impressive residency in ophthalmology at the University of Buffalo.

Sylvia Marshall, who is graduating in the spring from the medical school at New York Institute of Technology in Long Island, N.Y., will continue her studies in ophthalmology. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmologists, an ophthalmologist is a medical or osteopathic doctor who specializes in eye and vision care. They must complete many more years of training than optometrists and opticians, and as a result, can diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions.

Marshall worked in the laboratory of Dr. Akinobu Watanabe, assistant professor of anatomy, where she assisted with his National Science Foundation-funded research on cranial birth defects and the 3-D imaging of eyes from human cadavers.

I am excited to gain exposure to a wide array of eye conditions, hone my slit lamp examination skills, engage in research projects, and develop meaningful doctor-patient relationships. Ophthalmology is also a surgical subspecialty, which means that much of my time will be spent in the operating room  I know this will be a highlight of my training, said Marshall, whose experience as a former ophthalmic technician influenced her residency field decision.

Marshall said she also plans to lend her training to Doctors Without Borders one day, and provide access to medical treatments in areas where access to health care is limited.

As part of the College of Osteopathic Medicine at New York Institute of Technology, Marshall was one of many students who learned last month where they will spend the next several years completing their medical residencies after graduation.

The annual event, known as Match Day, takes place on the third Friday of March, as thousands of medical students across the country discover the next chapter of their medical education journey.

SEND US YOUR STORIES

Do you have a story idea for the In Class education column? Email education reporter Annalise Knudson at aknudson@siadvance.com.

ADDITIONAL IN CLASS COLUMNS

Recycling carnival features games made by Staten Island students | In Class column

Staten Island special ed students celebrate women in history | In Class column

New modern business classroom unveiled at Port Richmond High School | In Class column

Staten Island students rally in Albany for bill to protect school journalists | In Class column

New workshop aims to educate S.I. students on harmful effects of cyberbullying | In Class column

Students launch first youth podcast as part of media center partnership | In Class column

Threats can come from unexpected places: School hosts workshop on social media safety | In Class column

Non-profits to offer Staten Island schools inquiry-based Holocaust education programming | In Class column

Staten Island barbershop gives free haircuts to students | In Class column

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STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Organizers are prepping for a fundraiser to benefit animal rescue set for Wednesday, April 26 from 6 to 10 p.m. at DeLucas Restaurant in Tottenville.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the Near and Far Animal Foundation, a not-for-profit that not only assists local rescuers, but also aids animals across borders.

The foundation also focuses on saving animals.

SPECIAL NEEDS PUPS

Two special need pups -- Rosita and Joie --whose story is heart wrenching, will be on hand during the event. Rosita and Joie were saved and thriving because of the compassionate supporters at NAFAF.

Rosita, a chihuahua, has a neurological condition called hydrocephalus. She was found roaming the streets of Santa Domingo.

Joie, a Biewer Terrier, sustained an injury in Texas that damaged her spine and caused her to have limited to no control of her rear limbs.

They both reside on Staten Island under the care of NAFAF  and are now flourishing.

NAFAF provides funding for critical medical treatments. They host sterilization campaigns to control overpopulation in rural, impoverished areas. Events such as the Vendor Night at DeLucas bring together animal lovers along with some retail therapy.

THE FUNDRAISER

The Celebrate Mom Shopping Event will see games of chance and a 50/50, and a chance to purchase, jewelry, perfume, cologne, pocketbooks, wallets, belts, clothing, sunglasses, and makeup.

A fundraiser to benefit NAFAF is set for Wednesday, April 26 from 6 to 10 p.m. at DeLuca's Restaurant, Tottenville. (Courtesy/Carla Murino)Staten Island Advance

Chairperson is Italia DePompo-Cantone. Those who are interested in learning more about NAFAF should visit www.nearandfaraf.com
MANHATTAN, N.Y.  Dearest reader, the time has come to greet her majesty Queen Charlotte at the The Queens Ball: A Bridgerton Experience this spring.

FeverUp has released the dates of when this sensational ball will be held in New York City, including the prices of tickets for you and yours. The ball will be held at Mediapro Manhattan Studio, which can be found on 37th St. between 10th Ave. and 11th Ave.

The Queens Ball: A Bridgerton Experience is open from Wednesday to Sunday for varying times each day. Ticket prices also vary on the day and time slot selected. Click here to learn more.

On Wednesday and Thursday, the experience welcomes guests of New Yorks Ton at 7 p.m. The starting price for tickets on Wednesday is $44, while the starting price for tickets on Thursday is $56.

On Friday, guests of New Yorks Ton have three times that they can meet Queen Charlotte: 4 p.m., 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. The starting price for tickets for the 4 p.m. time slot is $44, while the 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. time slots have a starting ticket price of $72.

On Saturday, guests of New Yorks Ton have three times that they can meet Queen Charlotte: 4:30 p.m., 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. The starting price for tickets for the 4:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. time slot is $72, while the 7 p.m. time slot has a starting price of $84.

On Sunday, guests of New Yorks Ton have three times that they can meet Queen Charlotte: 2 p.m., 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. The starting price for tickets in all time slots is $56.

If you choose to attend the ball with six or more people, there is a Group Bundle discount available. Click here for more details.

The Queen, in addition, offers a ticket to the Queens Court for an additional fee. It includes early entry into the experience, a delectable cocktail or mocktail of your choosing, as well as an exclusive collectible VIP memento and a tote bag. Click here for more details.

If you so desire, you can also purchase a Finishing Touches Package in addition to your ticket, presenting you with a special Queens Ball fan and tiara. Click here for more details.

Reader, do keep in mind that American Express card holders can attain expedited entry for them and three others. A 20% discount on select purchasable items, including food and drinks, is available.

The Queens Ball will only be here for a few short months before moving on to its next location. Be sure to see Queen Charlotte before she takes her final bow on July 2, 2023.

More about The Queens Ball: A Bridgerton Experience

A woman dressed as Queen Charlotte poses on a throne in Cinespace Studios in Toronto during the "Queen's Ball: Bridgerton Experience." "The Queen's Ball: Bridgerton Experience" is a participatory theatre experience where people can dance and dress up as part of the Bridgerton universe.SOPA Images/LightRocket via Gett

Garnering millions of views and likes across social media, The Queens Ball: A Bridgerton Experience is making its debut in Manhattan at Mediapro Manhattan Studio in April of 2023. More information will be revealed as the experience gears up to welcome New Yorkers to its ballroom.

The Queens Ball: A Bridgerton Experience has visited nine cities across the United States and Canada: Minneapolis, Denver, Toronto, Atlanta, San Francisco, Montreal, Washington, Chicago and Los Angeles, according to its website.

There are currently two seasons of the show available on the Netflixstreaming platform with the third expected to debut sometime in 2023. Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story is a Bridgerton spin-off about the story of Queen Charlotte, and is set to premiere on May 4, 2023. Keep in mind that while the shows and the books are rated mature, the experience at previous locations had an age rule of 16+.

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STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  A single little brown bat on Staten Island can eat thousands of insects in one night, a total equivalent to a teenage boy eating 200 quarter-pounders. Compounded across the United States, more than 100 bat species eat enough moths, beetles, flies and mosquitos to provide nearly $4 billion annually in pest control benefits.

Several bat species are also responsible for pollination and seed dispersal, and their activities help maintain forests and plants while serving as vital pieces of numerous ecosystems. Research into the animal has led to discoveries in art, medicine and technology.

Bats are phenomenally beneficial to humans, said Winifred Frick, chief scientist at Bat Conservation International.

However, a range of threats  from climate change to disease  has put bats in peril, according to the first ever State of the Bats report.

Around half of the 154 bat species across North America are at risk of severe population decline in the next 15 years, the report found, with nearly all of the U.S.-based species either considered vulnerable or imperiled. Three bats present in New York  the little brown bat, the northern long-eared bat and the tricolored bat  all fall under those designations.

The results are impactful in terms of really expressing the need for bat conservation and coordinated efforts to work on protecting species, said Frick.

Between 2020 and 2022, 100 scientists from the U.S., Canada and Mexico virtually convened to contribute to the report, which is a precursor to a scientific study that will be released within the next year. It was a trilateral effort to assess the scope and severity of threats to bats in each of the countries.

The researchers used the NatureServe conservation status assessment to evaluate each species individually and rate their extinction risk on a five-point scale ranging from critically imperiled to secure.

That criteria includes determining what threatens a given species. As the planet warms, researchers said cascading problems caused by climate change pose stark challenges to the survival of bats.

Climate change is both a direct threat to many bat species as well as an amplifier of other kinds of threats, said Frick.

Prolonged droughts in the Western U.S. are a concern for bats drinking water, and a lack of precipitation could create a lack of insect diversity necessary to feed bat colonies.

Extreme weather, which is expected to increase in frequency and severity as global warming worsens, can cause mass die-offs. When severe winter storms froze Texas power lines and caused a statewide crisis, bats were found frozen under bridges.

Wildfires also growing in size and devastation threaten to swallow bat habitats and further diminish population numbers that have seen a steady decline in recent years.

White-nose syndrome  a fungal infection affecting hibernating bats  was first discovered in New York in 2006 and has delivered devastating impacts on the states three species.

Named for its tell-tale white fuzz around the noses of bats, its not currently clear how the fungus itself can cause bats to die; however, the infection causes bats to deplete their fat reserves months before they emerge in spring, causing them to starve to death before hibernation ends.

The fungus can kill up to 90% of bats in areas they gather to hibernate in the winter.

All of those things start to add up to paint a pretty grim picture in terms of whats happening with our bat populations, said Frick.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service put New Yorks northern long-eared bat on the endangered species list last year, and an identical listing has been proposed for the tricolored bat. The little brown bat, which was the focus of some local conservation efforts, is also being evaluated.

Even wind turbines, which are expected to become an even-more prevalent part of the countrys energy portfolio, kill roughly half a million bats yearly, mostly during migration. The report said four bat species are forecasted to lose over half of their populations by 2038 if conservation actions are not rapidly taken.

Some of those efforts are already underway, researchers said. Active partnerships are in place between wind energy developers, conservationists and other parties to implement solutions, like including acoustic devices that deter bats, to mitigate fatalities.

Frick, who works for Bat Conservation International, said the organizations mission is to prevent bat extinctions globally, and the group is instrumental in putting conservation programs on the ground to help bat species.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, she said, also is pivotal in protecting at-risk species through the Endangered Species Act, which was put into effect 50 years ago.

Still, Frick said, more is needed to ensure bat populations begin to move in the right direction.

Those legal protections are really important, but also on the ground efforts to make sure that we protect critical sites, that we restore habitats and we think about the resources that wildlife need and how nature conservation helps both wildlife but also people, said Frick.
Philadelphias only animal care and control provider, which also handles the intake of animals, said dozens of dogs are at risk of euthanasia as the facility struggles to manage the spread of canine flu and pneumovirus, a respiratory illness that has spread rapidly in shelters in recent months.

The shelter, ACCT Philly, said it has to create a second shelter to temporarily house dogs exposed to canine flu for up to a month in order to limit further spread. Shelter operators consulted with disease control experts and found the infected animals will need to be separated from incoming dogs for up to 30 days to lower risk.

However, with an average of 100 dogs entering the shelter weekly, ACCT Philly said it is not able to close its doors because no other organization is capable of absorbing the influx.

The nonprofit said it is housing 120 dogs, and with a temporary space only able to accommodate 50 dogs, at least 70 of them are at risk of being put down.

There is no good time to do something like this, but unfortunately with the number of dogs who are getting sick, we dont have a humane alternative, Sarah Barnett, ACCT Phills executive director, said in a release. We continue to be here for the animals most in need in Philadelphia, and while this will be very challenging to pull off, we hope that the community will support us and help make this successful.

Barnett said volunteers to adopt a dog or foster a large dog for a month are desperately needed. If not, she called on the community for donations.

We are the only organization open 365 days a year 24/7, helping almost 16,000 animals each year, and we can only do so with the communitys investment, Barnett said.

Individuals can sign up to foster or adopt a large dog.

All adoption fees are waived for dogs over 40 pounds until April 23, and people who can foster large dogs will receive a $400 Visa gift card at the end of the month.
"The organisation supports international ceasefire efforts for humanitarian assistance deliveries and the evacuation of the injured and entrapped in conflict areas," the statement read.

Taha also stressed the readiness of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to channel its full potential and capabilities to support humanitarian efforts and resume dialogue between the rival parties to overcome the crisis threatening the security, safety and unity of Sudan.

Today's statement follows an earlier one in which the OIC called on both leaders of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) to end the fighting and begin negotiations.

A 24-hour ceasefire reportedly reached between Sudan's rival generals went into effect on Tuesday, but fighting continued in the capital, and it was unclear whether it would hold.

No sooner had the first hour of the ceasefire between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces entered into force on Tuesday than the sounds of gunfire were heard in the capital Khartoum resulting in a violation of the agreement.
A parking garage in Manhattans Financial District collapsed on Tuesday afternoon, killing one worker, injuring six and crushing cars, the Associated Press reported.

The garage collapsed around 4 p.m., only a few blocks from City Hall and the Brooklyn Bridge.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  During a gathering of people for others, retired Staten Island Family Court Judge Daniel Leddy, law professor and longtime Advance columnist whos practicing appellate law and providing legal commentary for media outlets, was honored by the Staten Island Alumni Chapter of Fordham University.

Morgan Vazquez, a New Springville resident and chapter leader, served as mistress of ceremonies at the program in the Staaten in West Brighton that included members of the clergy, community leaders, family and friends.

A LITTLE ABOUT THE PROGRAM

According to Mary Guardiani, member, advisory committee, Rev. Daniel Gatti, retired chaplin of the Fordham Alumni Association, led the group in prayer for the Fordham Alumni Vietnam Veterans who were both present and deceased.

He would go on to remind the crowd that March 29 was designated Vietnam War Veterans Day by President Donald Trump in 2017  the day the last U.S. combat troops departed Vietnam 50 years ago and the day the last acknowledged prisoners of war were released.

Rev. Matthew Roche introduced Leddy by reading the tribute from Bishop Peter Byrne, a 2022 honoree, Fordham graduate and personal friend.

In accepting the award, Leddy, twice a Fordham graduate with a bachelor of arts degree in 1962 and a juris doctorate degree in 1966, recounted his many experiences in Family Court, highlighting his personal concern for the needs of families and children.

From the left, Rev. Matt Roche, Judge Daniel Leddy and Rev. Daniel Gatti. (Courtesy/Marianne Troia)Staten Island Advance

Maureen Powers, would then describe her brothers concern for children. And although most proud of her brothers accomplishments in the judicial system, Powers noted she also considered him to be the best uncle ever because of his dedication and special rapport with children.

Leddy was chosen because he, in the words of Joseph McShane, president emeritus of Fordham University, exemplifies competence, conscience, compassion, and commitment to the cause of the human family.

From the left, Sam Kennedy, Morgan Vazquez, president of the Staten Island Chapter, Mary Guardiani and Rodger Van Allen. (Courtesy/Marianne Troia)Staten Island Advance

In addition to the annual brunch, the Staten Island Alumni Chapter of Fordham University is involved in community service, in networking, in hosting social gatherings and in spiritual connections.

Fordham alums who would like additional information should contact Morgan Vazquez, chapter president, at morganvazquez91@gmail.com
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Technology can be one of the hardest things to navigate for new immigrants, but New York City officials announced Tuesday that it will be a little easier for those on Staten Island.

La Colmenas Canal Street location in Stapleton will be the site of the Islands first gigabit center, part of a New York City program that brings high-speed internet access and educational opportunities to community organizations around the five boroughs.

Yesenia Mata, La Colmenas executive director, said one of the toughest things for new arrivals in the U.S. is finding internet access, and given its centrality to modern life  impacting everything from health care to education to employment  she said its a large part of the work her organization does.

This is a very important necessity when it comes to technology, Mata said. What we hope is to be able to reach more people and to continue providing these culturally-competent resources.

From left, LinkNYC Executive Director Nicole Robinson-Etienne, President of Link Solutions for ZenFi Networks Robert Sokota, Mayor's Office of Immigrant Affairs Commissioner Manuel Castro, La Colmena Executive Director Yesenia Mata, New York City Chief Technology Officer Matthew Fraser, LinkNYC CEO Nick Colving, and LinkNYC General Counsel Margaux Knee pose for a photo Tuesday, April 18, 2023. (Staten Island Advance/Paul Liotta)

La Colmena, Spanish for the hive, already hosts a Digital Without Borders program that offers the organizations clients similar services that will be enhanced via the "gigabit center" designation.

Manuel Castro, who heads Mayor Eric Adams Office of Immigrant affairs, said projects like the "gigabit center" highlight the importance of the citys investment in its local non-profits.

I know its been hard over the last couple of years through COVID. As the [former] director of a similar non-profit, I worked very closely with La Colmena through some very difficult years, supporting our communities through some very difficult time, Castro said.

With its work, particularly amid the citys migrant crisis, La Colmena, legally known as Staten Island Community Job Center Inc., has become a favorite of Adams administration.

Last year, the mayor named the organization as a resource navigation center for newly-arrived migrants, and just last month, Mata served as a keynote speaker for an Emergency Management Department symposium on community preparedness.

Mayor's Office of Immigrant Affairs Manuel Castro, pictured with Chief Technology Officer Matthew Fraser and La Colmena Executive Director Yesenia Mata, speaks during a press conference Tusday, April 18, 2023. (Staten Island Advance/Paul Liotta)

Matthew Fraser  the citys first chief technology officer, a position Adams created as part of his administrations focus on technology  said by bringing a "gigabit center" to La Colmena they hoped to improve access to internet in the area.

There are so many households where you have school-aged kids where you have working families who go home and they dont have access to broadband, Fraser said. They are literally cutoff and disconnected from society.

On Staten Island, 18% of households do not have immediate access to reliable Wi-Fi and across the city, 28% of immigrant households lack internet access, according to Frasers Office of Technology and Innovation.

The LinkNYC initiative  a public-private partnership between the mayors office, media and technology company, Intersection, and Zenfi Networks, a wireless infrastructure provider  helps operate the gigabit centers around the five boroughs, and is part of other initiatives aimed at expanding internet access.

Perhaps best known for their kiosks around the five boroughs, the company has also begun installing Link5G towers around the city.

Another city initiative, Big Apple Connect, has brought free internet access to almost every New York City Housing development around the five boroughs.

Were doing a significant amount of investment in programs like this, Fraser said. We want to make sure broadband is available everywhere.

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Donald Trump values his nascent media company at less than $US30 million ($45 million), a stark discount to the more than $US1 billion valuation implied by investors who piled into the blank cheque thats hoping to bring the firm public.

The former president said Trump Media & Technology Group, which is going public through a SPAC merger with Digital World Acquisition Corp., is worth $US5 million to $US25 million, according to a financial disclosure filed with the Federal Election Commission. The filing was required because Trump is again a candidate for president

Terms of the merger show Trump Media, and therefore Trumps stake in the company, could be worth closer to $US1.7 billion depending on the performance of the stock after the combination is completed Credit: AP

That leaves a wide gap with what SPAC traders are currently paying for Digital World even after a rollercoaster ride for the share price since the tie-up was announced in October 2021. It also may suggest the potential downside risk still facing retail investors should the deal fall through as the companies themselves have warned in filings that investigations by regulators could derail the planned merger.

This massive discrepancy is because one is a very conservative estimate made for the Federal Election Commission and one is a multiple of sales that compares it to companies like Twitter, says Michael Broudo, an event-driven equities analyst at Oppenheimer. Theres a very loyal retail contingent thats either indifferent to the downside if the deal collapses, or is willing to take the risk.
EU chief Ursula von der Leyen urged the bloc's leaders to show unity in the face of China on Tuesday, one week after French President Emmanuel Macron stirred a fierce debate over ties with Beijing.

Macron triggered a firestorm following a trip to China by asserting that Europe should not automatically follow US policy on Taiwan and should avoid "crises that aren't ours".

"A strong European China policy relies on strong coordination between member states and EU institutions and on the willingness to avoid divide and conquer tactics," von der Leyen, who accompanied Macron to Beijing, told MEPs.

"We have already in the recent days and weeks seen those tactics in action and it is now time for Europe to move to action too. Now is the time to demonstrate our collective will," she said, in an address to the European Parliament.

Von der Leyen reiterated her call for the 27-nation EU to reduce its dependance on an increasingly assertive Beijing for key resources, while not fully "de-coupling" its economy from China and its vast markets.

"On the issue of Taiwan. The EU's one China policy is long-standing," the head of the EU's executive arm said.

"We have consistently called for peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. And we stand strongly against any unilateral change of the status quo in particular, by the use of force".

EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said "Taiwan is crucial for Europe" in part due to the important shipping routes and its role producing semiconductors.

"It's not just for moral, ethical reasons that we should reject any external interference in the affairs of Taiwan," he said.

He insisted European fleets needed to take part in freedom of navigation operations in the straits and said the bloc should be ready to "face down provocations no matter where they come".

"Well-tuned chorus"

Macron's comments drew sharp criticism from several of France's EU allies, especially nations in the east of the bloc that see the United States as their primary security guarantor in the face of China's ally Russia.

Borrell said the bloc's member states should try to get on the same "same wavelength" over Beijing.

"We can't speak with just one voice because of the multiplicity of voices that we have, but at least we could be a well-tuned chorus," he told the European Parliament.

Borrell said the bloc needed to find common ground on whether it wanted to forge its own independent voice in global affairs and how it should deal with China's stance on Russia's war in Ukraine.

European leaders have pushed Beijing to get its close ally Moscow to pull back, but there have been no concrete results from their diplomatic outreach.

"We all have our relations with China, but they can't develop normally if China doesn't use its influence with Russia to get it to withdraw its troops from Ukraine," Borrell said.

"Any neutrality which doesn't draw a distinction between the aggressor and the country aggressed is basically on the side of the aggressor," he said.

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FoodWine The joy of NoLo: Waking up to the wonderful world of no- and low-alcohol drinks Katie Spain February 13, 2023 Save Log in , register or subscribe to save recipes for later. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share

Go-to for a zippy, mid-afternoon citrus pick-me-up: Yes You Can Alcohol-Free Yuzu Sake. Supplied As a wine writer, I was never going to find a 12-week abstinence challenge easy. No booze seemed unfathomable. Fortunately, the NoLo (no alcohol, low alcohol) scene is booming, and the drinks options now are thrilling. Since Sans Drinks founder Irene Falcone opened Australia's first non-alcoholic bottleshop in Sydney's northern beaches in 2021, alcohol-free retailers have popped up across the nation. Shelves full of non-alc alternatives are also commonplace at traditional liquor stores, while temperance menus now sit comfortably alongside wine pairings at top-end restaurants across Australia. Co-owners of Monceau Rowan McNaught and Alan Caras. Justin McManus

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The growth in the category was captured by the IWSR Drinks Market Analysis, which found Australia is among the countries where growth of no-alcohol and low-alcohol beer consumption is projected to be among the highest over the next four years. For the likes of ALTD Spirits founder Tim Triggs, abstinence is a lifestyle as well as a business. Triggs gave up alcohol in 2016 for what was meant to be six months. He hasn't returned to it since. As a result, he launched ALTD Spirits with his sister in 2018. "Back then there was a serious lack of alcohol-free choices and we were the target market, so it just made sense to give it a crack," he says. Four Pillars Bandwagon Dry comes alive with tonic water. Benito Martin "I honestly think the word is spreading that not being hungover is amazing. People are waking up to it. It's such a messy, destructive habit for so many. Loads of people are fine with alcohol but lots more aren't. I think as NoLo becomes more normalised, more people are embracing it."

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As de-alcoholisation technology improves and inspiration and experimentation blossoms, so too does the offering. Whether you're abstaining completely, seeking a bit of moderation or are simply NoLo-curious, there are some thoughtfully made gems to be found. Give these inspired alternatives a try. Beer Heaps Normal Half Day Hazy Pale Ale, NSW, from $4.50/can, $64.95/case Photo: Supplied The stellar non-alcoholic XPA and classic lager made by Sydney's Heaps Normal have been well publicised since four pals founded the company in 2019. The latest addition to their arsenal is the Half Day Hazy Pale Ale. It's as close as you'll get to the real deal and begs to be consumed while cutting laps on a ride-on lawnmower (doesn't all beer?). 0.5 per cent alcohol by volume. heapsnormal.com

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Hop Nation Mind Ya Head Non-Alc XPA, Vic, $15/four-pack Melbourne craft brewery Hop Nation makes the full-flavoured Mind Ya Head Non-Alc XPA, awarded Australia's number one non-alc beer in the 2022 Australian International Beer Awards. The can features two magpies swooping a cyclist  Aussie as. The limited-release Hop Nation Opening Doors Non-Alc Hazy Pale Ale and No Fool Non-Alc Raspberry Sour (both $17/four-pack) are also refreshing after a hard day's toil. Less than 0.5 per cent ABV. hopnation.com.au Sobah Pepperberry IPA, Qld, $16.50/four-pack Based in Burleigh Heads, Sobah produces a range of non-alcoholic craft beers while raising positive awareness and promoting First Nations' culture, arts, language and history. For a full sensory overload, try this complex bushtucker-packed brew. Less than 0.5 per cent ABV. sobah.com.au Photo: Supplied

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Cider The Apple Thief Pink Lady Non-Alcoholic Cider, $30/six-pack At first sip, the sugar hit delivered by this alcohol-free cider might be startling, but add some ice and it's an utter delight. The bird on the label is a playful ode to the cheeky birds that steal fruit from cidery founder Dave Purcell's orchard. It's made in NSW using 100 per cent pink lady apples grown in Batlow, at the base of the Snowy Mountains. Zero added sugar, zero juice concentrates, zero alcohol, and all fun. theapplethief.com.au Photo: Supplied Mixed drinks

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Katie's pick Awesome Source Non-Alcoholic Gin & Tonic, $59/eight-pack Frances Chnaider and her partner, Ben East, put a great deal of effort into their small-batch non-alcoholic gin and tonic. "An excessive amount of drinking during COVID, a Tony Robbins seminar and the excitement of combining my partner's rocket-wizardry skills with my product innovation background led us to create this business," Chnaider says. "We refuse to use sweeteners of any kind, fillers, gums, fake burns (the ones that try and mimic alcohol burns) and any of the other common non-alcoholic additives you'll find." And as packaging goes, theirs is hard to beat. Less than 0.5 per cent ABV. awesomesource.co Yes You Can Alcohol-Free Yuzu Sake, $52/dozen One sip was enough to make me seek out Yes You Can's Insta account and hit "follow". It's become my go-to for a zippy, mid-afternoon citrus pick-me-up but also holds its own as a party beverage. Founder, ex-Olympian Tyler Martin and his partner Sophie came up with the idea for Yes You Can while Sophie was pregnant and craving an Aperol spritz. You won't find any artificial flavours in the range. Just all-natural extracts, essences, flavours and distillates. Less than 0.5 per cent ABV. yesyoucandrinks.com

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Banks Botanicals Banks Herbarium & Pink Grapefruit Tonic, $19.95/RTD four-pack This mixed drink tastes so much like Pfeffernusse (German iced gingerbread cookies) it's like a trip to Deutschland. You might also detect some wattleseed and wild Tasmanian pepperberry in the mix. Zero per cent alcohol. banksbotanicals.com ALTD Spirits An-marabula Native Peach Bellini ($25/four-pack) A limited-edition collaboration between ALTD Spirits and Indigenous bushfoods specialist Kakadu Kitchen, this drink shines a spotlight on an-marabula (Kakadu native peach). The debut run is limited to just 300 cases. altdspirits.com Photo: Supplied

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Still wine The search for an Australian-made zero-alcohol still "wine" that blows my socks off is still under way. Many lack texture, tannin, and/or taste too sweet or flimsy. The Triple Creek Winery B1654 2021 Non-Alcoholic Shiraz (from $19, less than .05 per cent alcohol, freespiritdrinkco.com.au, anadrinks.com.au), however, provides hope for a more fulfilling future. The de-alcoholised Barossa shiraz offers textures, dark fruit flavours, a lick of oak and green tea-like tannin. As whites go, the Giesen 0% Pinot Grigio ($16.99, danmurphys.com.au) is surprisingly expressive and tasty. Fizz Pure Vision Zero Sparkling, Adelaide, SA, $20 Family-owned Pure Vision Wines makes award-winning certified organic wines. Adding a Zero range was a bold step towards the future. The new-release sparkling chardonnay is the jewel in the crown. The chardonnay delivers an exhilarating citrus bang. Drink it as you would a good prosecco, with friends and animated conversation. Zero per cent alcohol. purevisionwines.com.au

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Sidewood 'Nearly Naked' Zero-Alcohol NV Sparkling, Adelaide Hills, SA, $22 Layers of lemon and brioche make it an elegant option for discerning drinkers. "We found a lot of zero-alcohol wines on the market that tasted oxidised, sweet, unbelievably acidic, unfermented or cider-like," says Sidewood marketing manager Sam Evans. "If we were going to do this, the fruit intensity had to be clean, bright and vibrant with a dry finish." Zero per cent alcohol. sidewood.com.au Photo: Supplied - Spirit alternatives Four Pillars Bandwagon Dry, Healesville, Vic, $50

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Four Pillars head distiller and co-founder Cameron Mackenzie says creating Bandwagon Dry gin was probably the most difficult thing they've ever done. "The thing that makes these products so difficult is that they lack the palate weight, texture and sweetness of alcohol," he says. "They are driven by beautiful aromatics but tend to be watery." Adding tonic to Bandwagon Gin unlocks the flavours and aromas, making it taste more complete. Find it at bottleshops, Woolworths, David Jones and fourpillarsgin.com The Gospel Projects Responsible Rye Non-Alcoholic Whiskey, Melbourne, Vic, $46 Nothing hits the spot quite like the real stuff, but this is an admirable attempt by Ben Bowles and Andrew Fitzgerald's Melbourne distillery, The Gospel, which is dedicated to producing straight rye whisky. This is no different. The flavours of rye whiskey are there  only more like a whiskey on ice that's had a bit of time in the glass. Best mixed with ginger ale and a slice of orange. Less than 0.5 per cent alcohol. thegospelwhiskey.com Lyre's Italian Orange, $44.99 This non-alcoholic drop holds its own against the hard stuff. The vibrant orange liquid has all the citrus punch of a classic bitter orange aperitif (such as Campari), with a distinctly modern edge. Pithy blood orange flavours explode when added to soda or tonic water. A great sundowner or brunch accompaniment  minus the hangover. Zero per cent alcohol. lyres.com.au

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Photo: Supplied Left of centre NON7 Stewed Cherry & Coffee, Melbourne, Vic, $30 If in doubt, reach for fizz by Melbourne's NON. These boundary-pushing beverages tick all the boxes  particularly quality  and are challenging enough on the flavour front to spark serious joy and intrigue. Throw the NON7 into the mix at your next dinner party and watch collective minds blow. Zero alcohol. non.world Monceau sparkling non-alcs and pet-nats, Melbourne, Vic, from $17

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Craft brewery Monceau is a pioneer of top-notch sparkling wine alternatives and I am currently obsessed. The Brunswick-based producer makes raw and unfiltered non-alc pet-nats using the ancestral method (from $18/bottle) and sparkling non-alcs spanning flavours such as pamplemousse (grapefruit), cerise, and passionfruit. They sell out fast so keep your eyes peeled for them at retailers and restaurants. monceau.com.au Ziggy's Wild Foods Wild Coffee & Native Dorrigo Pepper Qishr Shrub, $20 This slightly sweet, delightfully acidic drop is inspired by qishr, a traditional Yemeni coffee and sweet ginger drink. Enjoy as it is or add a splash of soda or ginger beer. What is a shrub? Put simply, it's an age-old mixed drink combining fermented plants, a sweetener and vinegar. Zero alcohol. ziggyswildfoods.com.au
When Elon Musks Tesla said last month that it would not need rare earth ores for its next-generation electric vehicles, it marked the latest string of bad news for $6 billion Australian miner Lynas Rare Earths, which had only just recovered from an existential threat to its Malaysian operations.

Rare earths had been considered irreplaceable for building the powerful magnets needed for these vehicles, and Tesla cited the move as removing a crucial production  and cost  constraint on its operations.

Elon Musks Tesla must cut the use of costly rare earths to meet its goals of making cheaper cars and grow its sales. Credit: Bloomberg

Lynas has made it clear that the growing demand for e-vehicles has underpinned demand, and prices, for rare earths. It drove the share price from $1.30 at the start of 2020 to a high of $11 last year, valuing the group at more than $10 billion at its peak.

Since then, Lynas has shredded as much as $2 billion of its market valuation, trading as low as $6. Has Musks declaration shaken the company, or can it keep on trucking?
Paul Miller was doing something he always wanted to accomplish  hiking the Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea  when he collapsed on Sunday.

The South Australian army veteran and father of five was pronounced dead on arrival at hospital after suffering what is believed to be a heart attack on his second day walking the track.

South Australian Paul Miller died while trekking the Kokoda Track. Credit: Facebook

In a statement from Millers partner, Amanda Kaplan, she said he had been training and did the trek with their 17-year-old son Aaron as a fundraising effort for Operation K9  a service that provides dogs to veterans.

We would love this opportunity to spread the awareness and fundraising efforts that Paul was aspiring to achieve, she said.
High-fee private school The Scots College in Bellevue Hill has said it has never asked prospective student leaders about their sexual activity after the church that oversees the school said students who have sex outside of marriage shouldnt be school captains.

The Presbyterian Church, which elects a council responsible for overall governance of the $44,000 a year school, told the Australian Law Reform Commission that students in same-sex relationships would not be able to model the Christian ethos required in the role.

In a letter to parents, Scots said they had never asked prospective student leaders about sex. Credit: Louise Kennerley

The example given in the review of an LGBTQ+ student being elected as school captain is a case in point, its submission said.

If this student were in an active same-sex relationship, they would not be able to give appropriate Christian leadership in a Christian school which requires modelling Christian living. This would also be the case for a student in a sexually active unmarried heterosexual relationship.
The Australian Defence Force has been called in to help search a waste facility for the body of a missing retired Brisbane teacher, who police believe was dumped in a wheelie bin.

Police have given search crews photographs of the clothes they believe Lesley Trotter, 78, was wearing when she was last seen at her Toowong home.

Police and ADF personnel searching for retired teacher Lesley Trotter are sifting through waste by hand and using rakes.

The keen hiker and respected former teacher disappeared from her home in late March, with police investigating whether she had met with foul play.

Detective Superintendent Andrew Massingham said authorities were using technology to sift through about 3000 tonnes of general waste at the Swanbank waste facility south-west of Brisbane.
The agents who recruit international students to Australias universities and colleges must be better regulated to prevent the financial exploitation of their clients, an inquiry into the sector has heard.

The students are literally cash cows, student advocate Bijay Sapkota, a former president of the Council of International Students Australia, said ahead of Tuesdays first hearing in Melbourne of the federal parliamentary inquiry into international education.

Bijay Sapkota, a former international student and ex-president of the Council of International Students Australia, is now an advocate for students coming to study in Australia. Credit: Peter Rae

After two years of flat-lining numbers during the pandemic, international students are pouring back into Australia, fuelling an overseas education industry worth about $40 billion annually, trailing only iron ore, coal and natural gas as an export. The Bureau of Statistics said last week that almost 143,000 international students arrived in Australia in February  93,270 more than in the same month last year.

But on Tuesday, federal MPs conducting an inquiry into international education voiced concerns that agents who facilitate the entry of overseas tertiary students were reaping massive profits, without ever having to reveal how much they were being paid by universities and colleges.
Nine Indonesian fishermen are feared dead after record-breaking winds from Cyclone Ilsa destroyed their boat off the Kimberley coast last week.

The marine tragedy went undetected for six days until an Australian Border Force aircraft conducting a patrol spotted 11 people in distress, stranded on a remote reef in the Rowley Shoals, 313 kilometres west of Broome.

In a statement, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority said the surviving crew were rescued on Monday afternoon and taken to Broome for medical assistance.

The survivors reported that there had been two fishing vessels with 10 crew each, but one vessel had sunk in the extreme conditions of the cyclone, the statement read.
The federal opposition must stop focusing on the Voice to parliament and switch to cost-of-living issues, according to the Coalitions outgoing home affairs spokeswoman, Karen Andrews.

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton made a series of changes to his frontbench on Tuesday, promoting four conservative-minded senators in a reshuffle prompted by the resignation of former shadow minister Julian Leeser and broadened by Andrews decision to stand aside before leaving parliament.

McPherson MP Karen Andrews, who quit the Coalition frontbench on Tuesday, said the Liberal Party needs to shift its focus from the Voice debate to cost-of-living issues. Credit: AAP

Neither Leeser nor Andrews have given any indication they could quit early and trigger a byelection, but there are expectations in the Liberal Party that more MPs could quit for reasons unrelated to the Voice, including former prime minister Scott Morrison, triggering more byelections after the Coalitions devastating loss in the Victorian seat of Aston.

In an interview to mark her move to the backbench and retirement at the next election, Andrews agreed the party was distracted by the Voice to parliament debate.
Health Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson has admitted staffing difficulties were to blame for a brand new, much-vaunted neonatal ward sitting idle for two years.

The ward was part of a $25 million 2017 Labor election commitment to expand services at Osborne Park Hospital to allow northern suburbs mothers with low to moderate-risk pregnancies to have their babies closer to home.

A neonatal ward at Osborne Park hospital is yet to admit a single baby. Credit: Marta Pascual Juanola

Former Health Minister Roger Cook announced tenders were open in July 2019 and construction began on the new level 2A neonatal nursery in February 2020.

The expansion was complete by the end of that year, but the ward is yet to admit a single patient.
Prosecutors in the US state of Missouri have announced felony charges against an elderly white man after he allegedly shot and severely wounded a Black teenager who mistakenly rang his doorbell.

Ralph Yarl, 16, was in critical condition after he was shot twice, once in the head, last Thursday night when he rang the doorbell at the wrong house while trying to pick up his twin brothers from a friend's home nearby.

Outrage rose over the case throughout the weekend, after it was revealed that the homeowner had been released without charges following 24 hours in custody.

However, on Monday, Clay County prosecutor Zachary Thompson announced that the homeowner, identified as Andrew Lester, had been charged with assault in the first degree and armed criminal action.

Bail for Lester, whose age was variously given as 84 and 85 by prosecutors and US media, was set at $200,000.

"To pretend that race is not a part of this whole situation would be to have your head in the sand," Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas told CNN Tuesday. "This boy was shot because he was existing while black."

The White House announced Monday evening that President Joe Biden had spoken by phone to Yarl "and shared his hope for a swift recovery."

Yarl's aunt, Faith Spoonmoore, said on a GoFundMe campaign that her nephew was a gifted student who dreamed of studying chemical engineering. As of Tuesday morning, the fundraiser had pulled in more than $2.8 million for Yarl.

Deadly shootings are a regular occurrence in the United States, a country of around 330 million people that is awash with an estimated 400 million guns.

But Yarl's case has sparked a particular outcry as the nation continues to grapple with a long history of lack of accountability for violence against African Americans.

Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves said at a Sunday night press conference that the information at the time "does not say that it's racially motivated" and that the investigation was still active.

"But as a chief of police, I do recognize the racial components of this case. I do recognize and understand the community's concern."

Charges were also filed Monday in a similar case in New York state, where a 20-year-old woman was shot dead.

Police in New York state said Kaylin Gillis had been fatally shot by a homeowner on Saturday night when she showed up with three others at the wrong address when trying to find a friend's house.

"While they were leaving the residence after they determined that they were at the wrong house, the subject came out on his porch for whatever reason and fired two shots, one of which struck the vehicle that Kaylin was in," said Jeffrey Murphy, the sheriff of Washington County, where the shooting took place.

The homeowner identified as the person who fired the shots, 65-year-old Kevin Monahan, was arrested Monday and charged with second-degree murder, according to the sheriff's office.

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The Sydney regions that had the largest population drops earlier in the pandemic, amid lockdowns and closed borders, are now fielding a rapid rebound in housing demand as migrants and international students flock back.

Those areas where the population is still down on pre-COVID levels are unlikely to stay that way for long, putting further pressure on already stretched housing supply, experts say.

Housing demand has rebounded in inner Sydney. Credit: Louise Kennerley

As of December, the region spanning the south end of the eastern suburbs, covering suburbs like Randwick, Kensington, Coogee and Maroubra, was home to 11,100 fewer people compared to late 2019, an analysis of Australian Bureau of Statistics data by KPMG shows.

It was the biggest drop in population of any Sydney region over the three years to December.
Beirut: A helicopter raid by US forces in northern Syria has killed a senior leader of the militant Islamic State group, the US military confirmed.

Central Command said in a statement the IS leader, Abd-al-Hadi Mahmud al-Haji Ali, was responsible for planning terror attacks in the Middle East and Europe.

A US Apache helicopter in a drill last week. Credit: AP

Two other alleged IS members, were killed along with al-Haji Ali who was the target of the raid, CENTCOM said. The statement said no civilians or US troops were hurt in the operation.

It said the raid was launched after intelligence uncovered a plan by IS to kidnap officials abroad as leverage for [IS] initiatives.
Brasilia: Russias Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has expressed gratitude to Brazil for its approach in pushing for an end to hostilities in Ukraine  an effort that has irked both Kyiv and the West, and quickly prompted an unusually sharp rebuke from the White House.

After meeting his counterpart Mauro Vieira, Lavrov told reporters in a short joint press conference that the West had engaged in a rather tough struggle to maintain its dominance in world affairs, including economics and geopolitics.

Sergei Lavrov, Russian foreign minister, at the Itamaraty Palace in Brasilia, Brazil, on Monday. Credit: Bloomberg

As for the process in Ukraine, we are grateful to our Brazilian friends for their excellent understanding of this situations genesis. We are grateful [to them] for striving to contribute to finding ways to settle it, Lavrov said.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has refused to provide weapons to Ukraine while proposing a club of nations including Brazil and China to mediate peace.
Hope Estate:--- On Friday, April 14, 2023, Minister Omar Ottley accompanied by Minister Rudolph Samuel, Coordinator of Teen Times Mrs. Rochelayne Richardson-Romey, Staff of Community Development Family & Humanitarian Affairs Mrs. Elba Hanson-Flanders and Mrs. Elencia M. Baptiste-Boasman, for the handing over of Feminine Hygiene products to two School Boards.

The handing over marked the commencement of a distribution process of feminine hygiene products to the various subsidized & public schools. At the handing over, representatives from the Roman Catholic School Board, School Manager Edmaira Jacobs, and the Department of Public Education Dept. Head Mr. Daison Marks, received the products on behalf of their respective organizations. Each School Board is responsible for ensuring that all schools under their charge, receive the necessary products. This initiative came about due to the concerns raised by Teen Times on the issue of Period Poverty, which was introduced in Parliament earlier this year drawing attention to the importance of Period Products Legislation and the stigma associated with period poverty. Period Poverty is defined as the struggle or inability to access menstrual products due to financial constraints.

In response to this concern, the Ministry of Public Health Social Development and Labour through Minister Ottley sought to address the matter by carrying out an investigation on the reality of Period Poverty in Sint Maarten School. A two-prong approach was employed to this end. 1) The initial investigation throughout the month of March in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth & Sports. 2) While Minister Ottley awaited the outcome of said investigation, he arranged for the distribution of feminine hygiene products to all institutions through his network.

The Department of Community Development, Family & Humanitarian Affairs is responsible for coordinating the distribution of Feminine Hygiene products. Distribution will continue at the Gaston Boasman Community Help Desk Hope Estate throughout this week. School Boards were notified and are encouraged to make the necessary arrangements to have the products collected. For further information, School Boards can reach out to Gaston Boasman Help Desk on 559-0819 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

Minister Omar Ottley wishes to thank all those who have contributed in one way or another, to ensure that our girls are not left wanting for products when that very sensitive but important time of the month comes around. Minister Ottley will continue to work assiduously to ensure a permanent and plausible solution is realized.
PHILIPSBURG (DCOMM):--- The application process for the annual Hurricane Passes for the 2023 Atlantic Hurricane Season which starts June 1 and runs through November 30 has started.



There are two types of passes, the Disaster Pass and the Hurricane Pass. No passes will be issued to business owners, only with some exemption categories as noted below.



The pass allows the bearer to access the public road to visit the place of business to assess possible damage to the property. No company passes will be accepted during curfew hours. This can only take place during certain hours that will be stipulated and announced by the Prime Minister in a curfew situation.



Potential applicants have until May 17 to present all relevant information related to the process of requesting a pass.



Disaster Passes are issued to the following crucial disaster relief organizations and are valid for three years. The disaster relief organization consists of the following: Emergency Operations Center staff, Emergency Support Functions (ESFs) staff, Crucial governmental organizations, and entities involved in disaster management such as medical institutions, general practitioners and pharmacies, Red Cross, WIEMS, White & Yellow Cross Foundation, National Security Service VDSM, Sea Rescue, Shelter Management, Ministers and their drivers.



The following categories qualify for a Hurricane Pass which is valid for two years: Essential Government personnel without a disaster pass; Essential personnel of crucial companies or organizations: NV GEBE, Seven Seas Water, Telecom and Internet providers, Princess Juliana International Airport, Port St. Maarten, Hotels and Guesthouses, Marinas, Fuel distributors and gas stations, Commercial banks, Hardware stores, Security companies (supervisors only), Medium and large sized supermarkets, Restaurants (those providing food services to emergency services), Importers and Wholesale Companies for perishable goods (Only requests can be submitted for refrigeration and or generator technicians).



The crucial organizations as listed above (disaster & hurricane passes) can request personal passes for their key personnel.



The Office of Disaster Management that falls under the Ministry of General Affairs is handling the application process for the passes on behalf of the Prime Minister.



The Hurricane Pass is valid for the 2023 and 2024 hurricane seasons and will remain the property of the Government of Sint Maarten.



Please note that company passes will be accepted during curfew hours from the following institutions: Sint Maarten Medical Center, and White & Yellow Cross Foundation.



The pass system is a mechanism to maintain public order during emergency situations. The Prime Minister assesses the damage in conjunction with Emergency Disaster Management entities of the Government after a disaster has occurred and can impose a curfew if the extent of the damage poses a threat to the safety and security of the community.



An application form can be requested by sending an email to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Emails should include the following: Name of business or organization; A short description of activities of the business or the organization; Request for either disaster or hurricane pass.



When submitting the application, the following documents need to be attached:

- copy business license fee paid (or receipt) for 2023 for businesses.

- proof of 2023 registration at the Chamber of Commerce, for organizations.

- copy valid Sint Maarten ID-card of applicant.

- Nafl. 50,- in leges stamps per application (to be obtained at the Receivers Office or the Simpson Bay Public Service Center), this is a non-refundable handling fee; a copy of a digital payment transfer is accepted as well.

- One (1) passport picture for new applicants, to be sent in JPEG-format to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with the name of the person clearly indicated.



The application form has to be completed and submitted to the offices of the Fire Department & Disaster Management  in print form, to the attention of the secretary located at Jackal Road 5 (Office hours Monday-Friday 9.00AM to 4.00PM), Cay Hill, by May 17, 2023, with all necessary documents attached.



Applicants will be informed by email or telephone when to pick up the pass at the aforementioned address.
CleverTap launches Scribe, an OpenAI integrated content creation assistant

Scribe helps brands generate hyper-personalized, emotionally resonant messaging

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. and MUMBAI, India, Apr 17, 2023  (ACN Newswire)  CleverTap, the World\-s #1 retention cloud, today announced the integration of OpenAI with the CleverTap platform and launched its AI-generated content creator Scribe. The AI content feature can generate campaign creatives, analyze emotions, and rewrite them keeping in mind a specific emotion that resonates with the brands\- users. The feature will be rolled out to customers in April.

Scribe can interpret the emotion of messages and suggest the best alternative that users are more likely to engage with. Growth marketers can now auto-generate emotionally relevant copies and expedite content development by using just a few keywords on Scribe. The technology enables brands to automatically determine the tone of their messages. Marketers can leverage user engagement data based on emotion analysis to develop hyper-personalized content that is consistent with the brand, and also resonates with the user. Scribe is currently available to CleverTap Enterprise Customers on an invite basis.

Based on studies showing how much more value an emotionally connected customer adds, CleverTap has identified five fundamental emotions in MarTech. Namely, fear of missing out (FOMO), anticipation, trust, joy, and surprise  that are integral parameters in the digital world. Scribe has the capacity to produce and analyze content taking these factors into account. For digital-native businesses aiming to boost conversions with the aim of emotionally intelligent content, this will be a game-changer  driving increased visits, swipes, and spending.

Although marketers can personalize the way their customers connect with a brand, they will be able to go a step further with Scribe and customize the emotion of the messages marketers send out. Consider the following two examples of messages that have the same meaning but vastly different emotion scores  ultimately appealing to different audiences.

1. 50% off on shoes! Offer ends tonight!

https://www.acnnewswire.com/docs/Multimedia/20230417.CleverTap1.jpg

2. Hurray! You have won 50% off on shoes. Coupon is valid today.

https://www.acnnewswire.com/docs/Multimedia/20230417.CleverTap2.jpg

\Studies show that marketers only have 2 seconds to capture users\- attention in the digital realm. This gives marketers a very brief window to engage their users by tapping into the right emotions and AI enables brands to build these customized campaigns. These advancements in AI will open up the next frontier for marketers and bring back the \-tech\- in MarTech.\ said Jacob Joseph, Vice President Data Science, CleverTap, \We\-re excited to launch Scribe  our very own OpenAI powered AI content creator to help our customers generate personalized, emotionally relevant messaging to stay connected with users and strengthen digital relationships.\

About CleverTap

CleverTap 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(TM)  the world\-s first purpose-built database for customer engagement, offering both speed and economies of scale.

CleverTap is trusted by 2000 customers, including Electronic Arts, TED, English Premier League, TD Bank, Carousell, AirAsia, Papa John\-s, 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 Statements

Some 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 SHETTY

Director, Public Relations, CleverTap

+91 9820900036

sony@clevertap.com

IPSHITA BALU

Consultant

Archetype

+91 9590111798

ipshita.balu@archetype.co
Over 14,000 people have been arrested and 8,000 weapons seized in an anti-firearms operation across Central and South America, Interpol said Tuesday.

As well as weapons, the raids swept up over 200 tonnes of cocaine and other drugs worth $5.7 billion, as well as 370 tonnes of drug precursors (chemical ingredients), the France-based police cooperation body said in a statement.

Dubbed "Trigger IX", it was "the biggest firearms operation ever coordinated by Interpol," it added.

"The fact that an operation targeting illicit firearms resulted in such massive drug seizures is further proof, if needed, that these crimes are intertwined," Interpol chief Juergen Stock said in the statement.

Beyond the people arrested and guns seized, police and other authorities also laid their hands on 305,000 rounds of ammunition.

A 100,000-round haul in Uruguay "trafficked internationally by two European nationals" was "the country's largest-ever such seizure", Interpol said.

The body said its actions had helped uncover other crimes including "corruption, fraud, human trafficking, environmental crime, and terrorist activities".

Members of the Balkans Cartel, Brazilian organized crime outfit PrimeiRo Comando da Capital, and El Salvador's Mara Salvatrucha mafia were all arrested over arms trafficking, while 11 trafficked people were freed in Paraguay.

Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Panama, Paraguay, Peru and Uruguay participated, while the operation itself was funded by the European Union.

Trigger IX drew in police forces as well as other law enforcement agencies such as the US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

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A composite rex skeleton called Trinity, made up of bones from three different T-Rexes, sold for 5.5 million Swiss francs ($6.1 million) in a rare auction on Tuesday.

Estimated to be 65 to 67 million years old, the skeleton was sold at the Koller auction house in Zurich after being shipped from the United States in nine giant crates.

Trinity fetched a hammer price of 4.8 million Swiss francs, rising to 5.5 million with the buyer's premium added on.

The skeleton was put up for sale by an anonymous US private individual and had been expected to fetch between five and eight million Swiss francs.

It was bought by a private European collector of modern art and dinosaur relics.

Auctioneer Cyril Koller said it was the third T-Rex skeleton ever sold at auction, and the first in Europe.

"It was a wonderful auction because we showed Trinity for two-and-a-half weeks in the concert hall in Zurich. And so more than 30,000 visitors came and admired Trinity; a lot of children," he told AFP.

Koller voiced optimism that although the skeleton had been sold to a private buyer, it would remain on public display.

"I'm 100 percent sure we will see Trinity in the future somewhere again," he said.

The skeleton measures 3.9-metres high, 11.6 metres long and 2.65 metres wide.

Experts Have Bone To Pick

As its name suggests, Trinity is made up of bones from three dinosaurs -- excavated between 2008 and 2013 from the Hell Creek and Lance Creek formations in Montana and Wyoming.

The sites are known for the discoveries of two other significant T-Rex skeletons that have gone to auction.

"Sue" went under the hammer in 1997 for $8.4 million, before "Stan" took the world-record hammer price of $31.8 million at Christie's in 2020.

On Trinity, vertebrate palaeontologist Thomas Holtz -- who is against the sale of such specimens -- told AFP it was "misleading" and "inappropriate... to combine multiple real bones from different individuals to create a single skeleton."

Just over half of the bone material in the skeleton comes from the three Tyrannosaurus specimens -- above the 50 percent level needed for experts to consider such a skeleton as high quality.

Holtz, of the University of Maryland, remained sceptical, insisting that Trinity "really isn't a 'specimen' so much as it is an art installation".

He also took issue with auctions of significant dinosaur skeletons and other fossils, which have raked in tens of millions of dollars in recent years.

Experts have warned such trade could be harmful to science by putting the specimens in private hands and out of the reach of researchers.

But Christian Link of Koller stressed that 95 percent of known T-Rexes are currently in museums.

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The Egyptian government has released $15 billion worth of goods that were stranded at ports during the first quarter of 2023, said Head of the Egyptian Customs Authority El-Shahat Gatoury, according to Asharq Business.

Gatoury added that goods worth between $4 billion and $5 billion are being released from ports on a monthly basis.

Imported goods valued between $10 and $15 billion were stranded at ports in the latter part of last year, in part due to foreign currency shortages required to secure their release from customs.

However, the government intervened to secure the release of billions of dollars worth of goods in December and January.

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Dream Chaser is a private spacecraft from Sierra Space designed to send cargo and astronauts to low Earth orbit.

The cargo version is expected to bring experiments, equipment and other payloads to the International Space Station (ISS) no earlier than December 2023.

For its first launches, Dream Chaser is expected to use the brand-new Vulcan Centaur rocket from United Launch Alliance, pending readiness of that system and of Dream Chaser itself. Regardless of the rocket or mission, however, the shuttle-shaped spacecraft is designed to land on conventional shuttle runways at the end of the flight.

Dream Chaser specifications

Length: 30 feet (9 meters)

Cargo capacity: 12,000 pounds (5,443 kilograms), excluding the expendable cargo vehicle, which has 10,000 pounds (4,536 kg) of additional capacity

Wings: Foldable (cargo version) or non-foldable (crew version)

Crew capacity: Seven

Destinations: Low Earth orbit, solo or to space stations

Launching rocket: Vulcan Centaur, with possible others to come

Sierra Space's Dream Chaser concludes a test flight. (Image credit: Sierra Space)

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Dream Chaser design and development

Dream Chaser looks a bit like a stubby version of the space shuttle ; it is based on NASA and Soviet designs. Dream Chaser's design was informed by the HL-20, a NASA spacecraft design from the 1980s.

The HL-20 was based on a Soviet spacecraft called the BOR-4, which was spotted by an American spy plane in the early 1980s, according to NASA (opens in new tab). The HL-20 spaceplane, which never achieved orbit, was a kind of spacecraft whose body produces "lift" (the force that keeps airplanes and spacecraft aloft). NASA was looking for a low-cost, reliable alternative to the space shuttle, and HL-20's design was tweaked for 15 years.

Rockwell International received an HL-20 contract in 1989 "to perform an in-depth study and assessment" of the HL-20, NASA officials said. In 1990, students from North Carolina State University and North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University built a full-scale model to test the spacecraft's safety and usability for human crews. Additionally, in 1991, Lockheed Advanced Development Co. was assigned a study to "determine the feasibility of developing a prototype and operational system," NASA officials wrote.

NASA Commercial Crew Program

Predecessor entities to Sierra Space (SpaceDev, and then Sierra Nevada Corp.) received the HL-20 materials in 2006 from NASA and advanced the design. Around the same time, NASA was starting to look at replacements for the aging space shuttle in the wake of the 2003 Columbia disaster , which saw a vehicle break up during reentry, killing seven astronauts.

Various efforts and studies eventually culminated in the establishment of the Commercial Crew Program  which aimed to have companies take the lead in developing private astronaut taxis for the ISS  in 2010. Sierra Nevada (SNC) competed against other companies for NASA commercial crew development contracts for four years and proposed to launch its own Dream Chaser missions using ULA's Atlas V rocket.

The contracts included flight testing; for Dream Chaser, notable tests included two "captive carry" flights under a helicopter, along with a single glide test in 2013. The glide test went according to plan until Dream Chaser skidded off the runway and was damaged, due to issues with the left landing gear .

Gradually, NASA whittled down the list of competing companies over several rounds of development funding, but SNC's design persisted nearly to the end of the process. In 2014, however, NASA selected SpaceX's Crew Dragon and Boeing's Starliner as the first commercial crew vehicles.

SNC filed a protest to the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) on Sept. 26, 2014, alleging "serious questions and inconsistencies in the source selection process." Work temporarily halted on commercial crew development while the allegations were investigated. In January 2015, the GAO ruled against SNC, finding no issues with the evaluation.

A test version of the Dream Chaser space plane skidded off the runway during a test in 2013, when the craft's left landing gear failed to deploy. (Image credit: Sierra Nevada Corp.)

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NASA commercial cargo and other work

In 2015, SNC unveiled a cargo version of Dream Chaser. The company was targeting a lucrative ISS cargo contract from NASA, which was looking for new vehicles after previously awarding contracts for SpaceX's Dragon and Orbital ATK's (now Northrop Grumman's) Cygnus spacecraft.

In 2016, SNC received a Commercial Resupply Services 2 (CRS-2) contract from NASA (opens in new tab) to deliver at least six flights to the ISS; SpaceX and Orbital ATK also received CRS-2 contracts. At the time, NASA was targeting the first flights in 2018, but as is common with early-stage vehicle programs, that first flight date has now slipped by several years.

Key changes to Dream Chaser's design for cargo include foldable wings to fit inside a rocket fairing for launch, software to allow the spacecraft to fly autonomously, and the option to burn up some of the cargo in Earth's atmosphere via a "Shooting Star" expendable module. (The remaining experiments would fly back with Dream Chaser for analysis on the ground.)

Key responsibilities for Dream Chaser now lie with Sierra Space, an independent commercial space company under the SNC umbrella, which was formed in 2021. Aside from NASA, Sierra Space is targeting other customers for Dream Chaser, such as the Department of Defense (DOD). In 2022, for example, the military and Sierra Space announced a cooperative agreement to study point-to-point transportation of security payloads using Dream Chaser, although the DOD is considering other companies as well.

When ULA announced the retirement of the Atlas V to make way for the Vulcan Centaur, Dream Chaser was assigned to one of the first flights of the new rocket. However, Dream Chaser development delays in March 2023 pushed back that initial flight; ULA has said it will wait as long as feasible for Dream Chaser. Otherwise, the slot will be assigned to a "mass simulator" to allow early flights and certification of the Vulcan Centaur to proceed.

Dream Chaser's second and last drop test to date occurred in November 2017, and the prototype landed successfully on a runway. Tenacity is the name of the space-rated version of Dream Chaser that will be used for the first ISS cargo flight; as of April 2023, Tenacity is still under development. That first ISS mission, called Dream Chaser Demo-1, will be a test of Dream Chaser's capabilities before the system is declared operational.

Further in the future, it is possible that Dream Chaser will be used for the Blue Origin -led private Orbital Reef space station, for which Sierra Space is providing an inflatable habitat. Orbital Reef is one of a set of NASA-funded complexes billed as successors to the ISS, which is expected to be retired in 2030. Orbital Reef has passed a critical design review with NASA on the long road to certification.

Janet Kavandi Social Links Navigation President of Sierra Space Kavandi is responsible for Sierra Space's space programs, including Dream Chaser. She also leads the Sierra Space Human Spaceflight Center and Astronaut Training Academy. Prior to her role at Sierra Space, Kavandi was a NASA astronaut and flew on the space shuttle missions STS-91, STS-99 and STS-104 between 1998 and 2001. She also held management roles at the agency, including director of the Glenn Research Center in Cleveland.

FAQ

Why is Dream Chaser important? It's a winged vehicle that will land on runways worldwide, a derivative of NASA's HL-20 lifting body design. This is the next-generation  and most advanced and flexible  vehicle for space travel.

Where is Dream Chaser in its production? We are in production in Lewisville, Colorado. We already have the ability to supply the International Space Station. We're getting ready to fly our first mission.

How committed are Sierra Space and SNC to Dream Chaser? SNC has already invested about a billion dollars of their own money into making this happen, so they're very dedicated. Our company, Sierra Space, is [also] very dedicated to making this happen  with or without additional funding.

This Q&A is based on a press conference given at the International Astronautical Conference on Oct. 25, 2021. The information has been edited and condensed.

Additional resources

Learn more about Tenacity (opens in new tab) from Dream Chaser's YouTube channel. Read more about Sierra Space's plans for astronauts on the company's Human Spaceflight Center webpage (opens in new tab). Stay up to date on Sierra Space activity on its news page (opens in new tab).

References

Blue Origin. (2021, October 25). Blue Origin and Sierra Space Developing Commercial Space Station. https://www.blueorigin.com/news/orbital-reef-commercial-space-station/ (opens in new tab)

NASA. (n.d.) Commercial Crew Program. https://www.nasa.gov/sites/default/files/atoms/files/commercialcrew_press_kit.pdf (opens in new tab)

NASA. (2016, January 14). NASA Awards International Space Station Cargo Transport Contracts. https://www.nasa.gov/press-release/nasa-awards-international-space-station-cargo-transport-contracts (opens in new tab)

NASA Systems Analysis and Concepts Directorate. (2022, June 10). HL-20. https://sacd.larc.nasa.gov/vab/vab-projects/hl-20/ (opens in new tab)

Sierra Space. (n.d.). Dream Chaser: The Ultimate Space Vehicle. Retrieved April 12, 2023, from https://www.sierraspace.com/space-transportation/dream-chaser-spaceplane/ (opens in new tab)

Sierra Space. (n.d.). Space Transportation: To Space and Back, Well Supplied. Retrieved April 12, 2023, from https://www.sierraspace.com/space-transportation/ (opens in new tab)

United Launch Alliance. (2023). Vulcan. https://www.ulalaunch.com/rockets/vulcan-centaur (opens in new tab)
Motions of stars in the Milky Way galaxy in the next 400 thousands years based on data from the European Gaia mission.

The Milky Way is a barred spiral galaxy around 13.6 billion years old with large pivoting arms stretching out across the cosmos.

Milky Way quick facts:  Galaxy type: Barred spiral

 Age: 13.6 billion years (and counting)

 Size: 100,000 light-years across

 Number of stars: about 200 billion

 Rotation time: 250 million years

Our home galaxy's disk is about 100,000 light-years in diameter and just 1000 light-years thick, according to Las Cumbres Observatory (opens in new tab).

Just as Earth orbits the sun, the solar system orbits the center of the Milky Way. Despite hurtling through space at speeds of around 515,000mph (828,000kmph) our solar system takes approximately 250 million years to complete a single revolution, according to Interesting Engineering (opens in new tab). The last time our planet was in this position, dinosaurs were just emerging and mammals were yet to evolve.

If the center of the Milky Way were a city, we would be living in suburbia, about 25,000 to 30,000 light-years from the city center. Life in the outskirts is good; we find ourselves nestled in one of the smaller neighborhoods, the Orion-Cygnus Arm, sandwiched between larger Perseus and Carina-Sagittarius arms. If we were to travel inwards towards the city center, we would find the Scutum-Centaurus and Norma arms.

Related: How to photograph the Milky Way: A guide for beginners and enthusiasts

On a clear night, void of light pollution, we can catch a glimpse of the bright lights of the galactic city streaking across the night sky. Our window into the universe, this milky white band of stars, dust and gas is where our galaxy gets its name.

Lying at the very heart of the Milky Way is a supermassive black hole called Sagittarius A*. About 4 million times the mass of the sun, this beast consumes anything that strays too close, gorging on an ample supply of stellar material enabling it to grow into a giant. In 2022, we imaged this glutton at the core of our galaxy for the very first time , through an innovative technique allowing us to view the shadow of the black hole.

Why is our galaxy called the Milky Way?

According to the American Museum of Natural History (opens in new tab) (AMNH), our galactic home is called the Milky Way after its apparent milky white appearance as it stretches across the night sky. In Greek mythology, this milky band appeared because the goddess Hera sprayed milk across the sky.

Around the world, the Milky Way is known by different names. For example in China it is called "Silver River" and in the Kalahari Desert in South Africa it's called the "Backbone of Night".

Milky Way FAQS answered by an expert

We asked Rory Bentley, astronomer at the University of California, Los Angeles, a few frequently asked questions about the Milky Way.

Rory Bentley Astronomer Astronomer and graduate student at the University of California, Los Angeles, specializing in high-mass stars and studies of the Milky Way's core.

Where is Earth in the Milky Way? Earth is located roughly halfway to the edge of the Milky Way, at a distance of about 26,000 light years from the center. We reside in a feature known as the Orion Spur (sometimes also called the Orion Arm), which is an offshoot between the larger Sagittarius and Perseus Arms that lie inwards and outwards of our location.

What type of Galaxy is the Milky Way? The Milky Way is a large barred spiral galaxy, with a relatively small bar compared to most galaxies of a similar size. A central bar (or central bulge) is a circular to oval shaped structure of old stars which lies at the center of spiral galaxies.

What is the biggest planet in the Milky Way? The biggest known planet in the Milky Way may be HD 100546 b, which is a very large gas giant in the process of forming with a diameter roughly 6.9 times that of Jupiter, or 77 times that of Earth. The radius measurement is highly uncertain, as some of the material surrounding the planet may be masquerading as being part of the planet itself. The largest planets whose sizes are known for certain are HAT-P-67 b and XO-6b, both with diameters around 2.1 times that of Jupiter. Both of these planets have had their diameters measured directly as they transit their parent star.

The Milky Way: Size, structure and mass

The Milky Way's mesmerizing glowing band has had humankind star-struck for eons. (Image credit: Photo by Kendall Hoopes from Pexels)

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Studying the Milky Way used to be notoriously difficult. Astronomers sometimes compare the effort to attempting to describe the size and structure of a forest while being lost in the middle of it. From our position on Earth, we simply lack an overview. But two ground-breaking space telescopes launched since the 1990s have helped usher in the golden age of Milky Way research. Major strides have been made, especially since the 2013 launch of the European Space Agency's (ESA) Gaia mission.

Telescopes enabled astronomers to distinguish the basic shape and structure of some of the closest galaxies before they knew they were looking at galaxies. But reconstructing the shape and structure of our own galactic home was slow and tedious. The process involved building catalogs of stars, charting their positions in the sky and determining how far from Earth they are.

Dutch astronomer Jan Oort, sometimes dubbed the master of the galactic system, was the first to realize that the Milky Way isn't motionless but rotates, and he calculated speeds at which stars at various distances orbit around the galactic center. It also was Oort who determined the position of our sun in the vast galaxy. (The Oort Cloud, a repository of trillions of comets far from the sun, was named after him.)

The structure of the Milky Way galaxy as seen from above the galactic disk. (Image credit: NASA/Adler/U. Chicago/Wesleyan/JPL-Caltech)

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Gradually, a complex picture emerged of a spiral galaxy that appears quite ordinary.

At the center of the Milky Way sits a supermassive black hole called Sagittarius A*. With a mass equal to that of four million suns, the black hole, discovered in 1974, can be observed in the sky with radio telescopes close to the constellation Sagittarius.

Everything else in the galaxy revolves around this powerful gateway to nothingness. In its immediate surroundings is a tightly packed region of dust, gas and stars called the galactic bulge. In the case of the Milky Way, this bulge is peanut-shaped, measuring 10,000 light-years across, according to ESA. It harbors 10 billion stars (out of the Milky Way's total of about 200 billion), mostly old red giants, which formed in the early stages of the galaxy's evolution.

Related: 'Weird signal' hails from the Milky Way. What's causing it?

Beyond the bulge extends the galactic disk. This feature is 100,000 light-years across and 1,000 light-years thick, and it's home to the majority of the galaxy's stars, including our sun. Stars in the disk are dispersed in clouds of stellar dust and gas. When we look up to the sky at night, it's the edge-on view of this disk extending toward the galactic center that takes our breath away.

Stars in the disk orbit around the galactic center, forming swirling streams that appear to emanate like arms from the galactic bulge. Research into the mechanisms that drive the creation of spiral arms is still in its infancy, but the latest studies suggest that these arms form and disperse within relatively short periods of up to 100 million years (out of the galaxy's 13 billion years of evolution).

Inside those arms, stars, dust and gas are more tightly packed than in the more loosely filled areas of the galactic disk, and this increased density triggers more intense star formation. As a result, stars in the galactic disk tend to be much younger than those in the bulge.

"Spiral arms are like traffic jams in that the gas and stars crowd together and move more slowly in the arms. As material passes through the dense spiral arms, it is compressed and this triggers more star formation," Denilso Camargo, of the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul in Brazil, said in a statement (opens in new tab).

The Milky Way currently has four spiral arms, according to the National Science Foundation (opens in new tab) (NSF). There are two main arms  Perseus and Scutum-Centaurus  and the Sagittarius and Local Arm, which are less pronounced. Scientists still discuss the exact position and shape of these arms using Gaia data.

The Milky Way disk is not flat but warped (opens in new tab), according to ESA. As it rotates, it precesses like a wobbling spinning top. This wobble, essentially a giant ripple, circles the galactic center much more slowly than the stars in the disk, completing a full rotation in about 600 to 700 million years. Astronomers think this ripple may be a result of a past collision with another galaxy.

The structure of the Milky Way with its rotating warped galactic disc. (Image credit: Stefan Payne-Wardenaar; Inset: NASA/JPL-Caltech; Layout: ESA)

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Sprinkled around the disk and the bulge are globular clusters, collections of ancient stars, as well as approximately 40 dwarf galaxies that are either orbiting or colliding with the larger Milky Way according to a statement from ESA (opens in new tab).

All of that is surrounded by a spherical halo of dust and gas, which is twice as wide as the disk. Astronomers believe that the entire galaxy is embedded in an even larger halo of invisible dark matter. Since dark matter doesn't emit any light, its presence can only be inferred indirectly by its gravitational effects on the motions of stars in the galaxy. Calculations suggest that this puzzling stuff makes up to 90% of the galaxy's mass.

The mass of the Milky Way, dark matter included, equals 1.5 trillion solar masses, according to recent NASA estimates (opens in new tab). The galaxy's visible matter is distributed between its 200 billion stars, their planets and the massive clouds of dust and gas that fill the interstellar space. Astronomers aren't quite sure how many planets are in the Milky Way, given we have only found a few thousand all told, but one NASA estimate suggests it's more than 100 billion planets . How many solar systems there are in the Milky Way is also a mystery, as we are still looking for the planets.

Where is the sun in the Milky Way?

The sun is one of 200 billion stars making up the Milky Way galaxy. (Image credit: NASA/GSFC/SDO)

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The sun orbits about 26,000 light-years from the black hole Sagittarius A*, roughly in the middle of the galactic disk. Traveling at the speed of 515,000 mph (828,000 kph), the sun takes 230 million years to complete a full orbit around the galactic center.

The sun sits near the edge of the Local Arm of the Milky Way, one of the two smaller spiral arms of the galaxy. In 2019, using data from the Gaia mission, astronomers found that the sun is essentially surfing a wave of interstellar gas that's 9,000 light-years long, 400 light-years wide and undulates 500 light-years above and below the galactic disk according to ESA.

Planets of the solar system do not orbit in the plane of the galaxy but are tipped by about 63 degrees.

"It's almost like we're sailing through the galaxy sideways," Merav Opher, an astrophysicist at George Mason University in Virginia, told Space.com.

What is the black hole in the Milky Way?

Sagittarius A*, taken by NASA's Chandra X-Ray Observatory. (Image credit: NASA/CXC/Caltech/M.Muno et al.)

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The black hole in the Milky Way is called Sagittarius A* . The black hole is mostly dormant, which makes it very challenging to observe. Sagittarius A* has a mass 4.3 million times that of the sun, astronomers Reinhard Genzel and Andrea Ghez discovered it in 2008. The approximate diameter is 14.6 million miles (23.5 million kilometers) . By comparison, the Milky Way itself is roughly 100,000 light-years wide and 1,000 light-years thick.

A huge disk of gas around Sagittarius A* billows out as far as 5 to 30 light-years from the supermassive black hole. It is this huge, but tenuous, area of gas that gives a bit of material for Sagittarius A* activity. The region is known to emit X-rays due to feeding on the gas, or because of friction within the disk as temperatures soar to as much as 18 million degrees Fahrenheit (10 million degrees Celsius).

Scientists would love to have more information about this supermassive black hole to figure out more about how it was formed and the conditions that made its growth possible. A couple of possibilities include smaller black holes getting quite large as they eat up dust and gas in the environment nearby; alternatively, smaller black holes may merge together and create something more monstrous.

An image of the supermassive black hole at the center of the Milky Way, a behemoth dubbed Sagittarius A*, revealed by the Event Horizon Telescope on May 12, 2022. (Image credit: Event Horizon Telescope collaboration)

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Generally, scientists do have improving models for stellar-mass black holes and intermediate-mass black holes. These objects form when huge stars, many times the mass of our sun, collapse after stopping nuclear fusion. Since they are no longer able to stop the gravitational collapse, they shrink to a gravitationally powerful object that can warp time and space around it so much that light no longer can escape.

We're gradually learning more about Sagittarius A* through efforts such as the first-ever image of the black hole , which was obtained on May 12, 2022. The image captured faint amounts of light caused by heated matter moving super-fast towards the center of the black hole; the image is a high-definition shadow. This imaging required a big set of observatories around the world, approximately the size of Earth  which was possible through the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT).

Related: Here's How Scientists Turned the World Into a Telescope (to See a Black Hole)

Milky Way galaxy type and the great debate of 1920

The Andromeda Galaxy is on a collision course with the Milky Way. (Image credit: Yang Hanwen and Zhou Zezhen )

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We are constantly building on our wealth of knowledge of the Milky Way, though up until relatively recently astronomers believed that all the stars in the sky belonged to our galaxy.

"The Great Debate" in 1920 saw astronomers Herber Curtis and Harlow Shapley argue the scale of the universe and the prospect of "island universes" (galaxies), according to the National Academy of Sciences (opens in new tab).

On one side of the debate, Shapley believed the Milky Way was much larger than previous estimates and that we weren't at the center. He also claimed that "spiral nebulae" such as Andromeda were a part of the Milky Way. On the other side of the debate, Curtis did not dispute Shapley's claims of a far larger Milky Way, he did however argue that there were large island universes (galaxies) such as Andromeda, that lay beyond the boundaries of the Milky Way.

The dispute was resolved when Edwin Hubble's measurements of Cepheid variable stars proved Andromeda was located far outside the Milky Way. Modern estimates suggest the Andromeda galaxy, our nearest galaxy neighbor is 2.5 million light-years away.

More recently, astronomers have been trying to figure out what type of galaxy the Milky Way is. Our best estimates these days suggest that it is a barred spiral, meaning that there is a bar structure across the center. Astronomers can estimate the shape of the Milky Way by looking at its population of stars, as well as their movements across the sky.

A future collision of galactic proportions

Studying other galactic collisions provides insight into the future Andromeda and Milky Way merger. (Image credit: NASA Hyperwall)

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We now know that the Milky Way resides within the Local Group of galaxies, made up of over 30 galaxies including Andromeda, Triangulum and Leo I to name but a few. It turns out that it's pretty good to know who your neighbors are, as they may be closer than you think. The Milky Way is currently hurtling towards Andromeda at 250,000mph (400,000 km/h). Though there is no need to worry just yet, this crash of cosmic proportions is not due for another 4 billion years.

NASA and other space entities have been observing distant galaxy collisions for decades now to get a sense of what we might be facing when Andromeda and the Milky Way collide. The short story is there is little to worry about; the longer tale is the process is an interesting one as it shows how galaxies may evolve.

For example, observations of a three-way galactic collision in 2022 using the famed Hubble Space Telescope gave some intriguing insights. The largest of the group, as it got into a tight orbit with the other two, snagged some material with its relatively stronger gravity. This created an intriguing streak of gas, dust and other materials flowing into the larger galaxy, visible even from Earth.

While the arms of the Milky Way will surely be ripped up by this process, individual stars are relatively safe as the spaces between them are quite large. In other words, don't look for star collisions, as they will be practically non-existent. Starbirth, however, will accelerate due to the amount of gas being pumped into our galaxy, causing our galaxy to brighten and for its population to expand in the coming millions of years following the collision.

Our own solar system, therefore, should be relatively safe due to the low risk of star collision. That said, we may find ourselves thrown into a completely different path around the new galactic center as the merger pushes through.

One practical effect is that the constellations we observe from Earth may change as star orbits alter or new stars are added into the mix; that said, the collision is happening so far in the future that the constellations we see today may be altered in any case, due to natural starbirth and star death outside of the collision. This Milky Way timelapse shows how the night sky will shift over time.

Mapping the Milky Way's history

The evolution of the Milky Way began when clouds of gas and dust started collapsing, pushed together by gravity . First stars sprung up from the collapsed clouds, those that we see today in the globular clusters. The spherical halo emerged soon after, followed by the flat galactic disk. The galaxy started small and grew as the inescapable force of gravity pulled everything together.

The Milky Way is approximately 13.6 billion years old. (Image credit: Future)

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The galaxy's evolution is, however, still shrouded in mystery. A discipline called galactic archaeology is slowly unraveling some of the puzzles of the Milky Way's life thanks to the Gaia mission, which released its first catalog of data (opens in new tab)in 2018.

Gaia measures (opens in new tab) the exact positions and distances of more than 1 billion stars, as well as their light spectra, which enables scientists to understand the stars' composition and age, according to ESA. The position data allow astronomers to determine the speeds and directions in which the stars move in space. As things in space follow predictable trajectories, astronomers can reconstruct the paths of the stars billions of years into the past and future. Combining these reconstructed trajectories into one stellar movie captures the evolution of the galaxy over eons.

There is also evidence (opens in new tab) that the Milky Way collided with several smaller galaxies during its evolution. In 2018, a team of Dutch astronomers found a group of 30,000 stars (opens in new tab) moving in sync through the sun's neighborhood in the opposite direction to the rest of the stars in the data set. The motion pattern matched what scientists had previously seen in computer simulations of galactic collisions. These stars also differed in color and brightness, which suggested they came from a different galaxy.

Contrary to expectations, dwarf galaxies in the vicinity of the Milky Way have only just arrived. (Image credit: ESA)

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Remnants of another, slightly younger, collision were spotted a year later. The Milky Way continues devouring smaller galaxies to this day. A galaxy called Sagittarius (not to be mistaken with the black hole) currently orbits close to the Milky Way and has likely smashed through its disk several times (opens in new tab) in the past 7 billion years. Using Gaia data, scientists found that these collisions triggered periods of intense star formation in the Milky Way and may even have something to do with the galaxy's trademark spiral shape. The study suggests that our sun was born during one of those periods some 4.6 billion years ago.

Photographing the Milky Way

Photographing the Milky Way requires a dark sky. (Image credit: Getty)

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Photographing the Milky Way requires a dark sky, a good "season" (generally between February and October), some distance from light pollution, and the ability to use photographic equipment to catch its faint light. Luckily, the Milky Way is visible in both the northern and southern hemispheres and it is possible to capture it using standard amateur photography items.

If you can, get to your site in the daytime as you will likely want to scout the area for the best angles. Good Milky Way images tend to make use of the landscape in creative ways, so look for interesting and prominent natural features like mountains, boulders or rock shapes.

Next comes the photo shoot. Generally speaking, use a tripod, set your equipment for a timelapse mode and be prepared to experiment with different focuses and different lenses. For beginners, we also have a full guide on how to photograph the Milky Way (opens in new tab).

The future of the Milky Way research

Since the beginning of its operations, the Gaia mission has provided three updates to its massive stellar catalog. Astronomers from all over the world continue analyzing the data in search of new patterns and revelations.

Gaia data currently generates more research papers than even the famous Hubble Space Telescope. Gaia will continue charting the galaxy until at least 2025, as long as the spacecraft remains in good health, and the catalog it has compiled will keep astronomers busy for decades to come.

Before Gaia, the largest dataset about positions and distances of stars in the Milky Way came from a mission called Hipparcos, after an ancient Greek astronomer who began charting the night sky 150 years before Christ. Hipparcos only saw about 100,000 of the brightest stars in the sun's neighborhood, compared to Gaia's one billion. The data was also less precise.

Even though Gaia sees less than 1% of stars in the galaxy, astronomers can expand their findings and model the behavior of the entire Milky Way.

Additional resources

Discover more about the Milky Way and other galaxies with this free learning material from the Open University (opens in new tab). Explore the Milky Way in virtual reality (opens in new tab) with ESA's Gaia mission. Tour the Milky Way with Gaia Sky (opens in new tab), a real-time, 3D, astronomy visualization software that uses ESA's Gaia mission data. Learn why it was so difficult to study the Milky Way before Gaia in this article from ESA (opens in new tab).

Bibliography

Xiang, M., Rix, HW. "A time-resolved picture of our Milky Way's early formation history (opens in new tab)". Nature 603, 599603 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-022-04496-5

Robin, Annie C., et al. "A synthetic view on structure and evolution of the Milky Way. (opens in new tab)" Astronomy & Astrophysics 409.2 (2003): 523-540.

Dehnen, Walter, and James Binney. "Mass models of the Milky Way. (opens in new tab)" Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society 294.3 (1998): 429-438.

Helmi, Amina. "Streams, substructures, and the early history of the Milky Way. (opens in new tab)" Annual Review of Astronomy and Astrophysics 58 (2020): 205-256.
Musk says he is out to create 'truth-seeking' AI



San Francisco, April 18 (AFP) Apr 18, 2023



Elon Musk is out to counter Microsoft and Google artificial intelligence efforts with "truth-seeking AI" that shuns political correctness, he said during an interview aired late Monday.

The billionaire boss of Twitter and Tesla voiced anew his concerns about the danger of AI, saying it has "the potential of civilizational destruction."

He said he was also worried that the ChatGPT bot created by startup OpenAI was being taught to be politically correct.

"I'm going to start something which is called TruthGPT, or an absolute truth-seeking AI that tries to understand the nature of the universe," Musk said.

He reasoned AI would see people as an interesting part of the universe and decide not to "annihilate humans."

Musk has formed an X.AI artificial intelligence corporation based in the US state of Nevada, according to business documents.

He recently merged Twitter with a newly created "X" shell company, keeping the brand name for the platform but not the business.

Musk's founding of a rival to OpenAI came several weeks before he joined experts in signing an open letter urging an overall hiatus in the development of AI technology.

The signatories argued that the pause should be used to bolster regulation and ensure AI systems were safe.

Critics, however, called the letter a "hot mess" of "AI hype" that misrepresented an academic paper.

Big tech companies like Google, Meta and Microsoft have spent years working on AI systems -- previously known as machine learning or big data -- to help with translations, search and targeted advertising.

Musk said he was once close friends with Google co-founder Larry Page, and the two would talk about AI safety deep into the night.

"He really seemed to want digital super-intelligence, basically digital god, as soon as possible," Musk said of Page.

"You can't just go barrelling forward and hope for the best."

Late last year, OpenAI supercharged the interest in AI with its launch of ChatGPT, which can generate natural-sounding text from a short prompt.

Musk cofounded OpenAI but left the company in 2018.

Microsoft has since announced it is investing billions of dollars in OpenAI and has put its technology to work in its Bing internet search service.

gc/smw

MICROSOFT

Tesla

GOOGLE
EU strikes deal to boost chip production



Strasbourg, France, April 18 (AFP) Apr 18, 2023



The European Parliament and EU member states reached an agreement Tuesday on how to boost the supply of semiconductors in Europe, as the bloc races to reduce its dependence on Asian suppliers.

The European Union has prioritised local chip production after the economic aftereffects of the coronavirus pandemic triggered supply chain shocks that led to significant shortages.

Asian industry, especially firms in China and Taiwan, currently dominate the manufacture and export of semiconductors.

"The Chips Act will boost the European ecosystem for semiconductors and play a vital part in strengthening the EU's competitiveness at the global level," the bloc's Swedish presidency announced.

Under the agreement, the EU aims to double its current global market share to 20 percent in 2030 and mobilise more than 43 billion euros ($47.2 billion) in public and private investments to feed Europe's growing appetite for chips.

Europe will need to quadruple its production to meet this target.

German MEP Henrike Hahn tweeted that the deal included 3.3 billion euros allocated to "support large-scale technological capacity building and innovation across the EU in the semiconductor sector".

The legislative text, known as the Chips Act, also forms part of the bloc's bid to produce more in Europe to reduce its vulnerability to geopolitical shocks like the war in Ukraine.

When Russia invaded Ukraine last year, the EU scurried to find alternative energy sources after years of relying upon Russian fossil fuels.

"This will allow us to rebalance and secure our supply chains, reducing our collective dependence on Asia," Thierry Breton, the EU's industry commissioner, said in a statement after the parliament and the European Council, which represents member states, reached an agreement.



- Hunger for chips -



Europe was under pressure to act fast.

In August, the United States approved its own Chips and Science Act that included around $52 billion to promote production of microchips and tens of billions of dollars more for scientific research and development.

Japan and South Korea have also vowed to spend billions on developing their countries' semiconductor production.

Washington has leaned on allies including Japan and the Netherlands this year to tighten curbs on semiconductor technology exports to China, much to Beijing's chagrin.

Brussels is racing to protect the bloc's competitive edge in the face of threats from China and the United States, which have ploughed billions into green technology.

Last month, the EU's executive arm published two proposals to push Europe to produce more clean technology including critical raw materials needed to manufacture batteries for electric vehicles.

"Europe aims to become an industrial powerhouse in the markets of the future -- the digital and clean technologies that will allow us to remain a competitive export force, generate quality jobs and ensure our security of supply," Breton said.

"Because there will be no green or digital transition without a strong manufacturing base," he added.
Amira Hisham interviews the National Initiative for Developing the Egyptian Industrial Sector's (EBDA) Managing Director Dina El-Dalil to learn about its aims, achievements to date, and impacts on boosting domestic production

It has been six months since President Abdel-Fattah Al-Sisi launched the National Initiative for Developing the Egyptian Industrial Sector, Ebda for projects Development (EBDA), which aims to support local industry, boost domestic production, and reduce imports by strengthening the Egyptian private sectors role in financing and operating micro, small, medium-sized, and larger enterprises that produce domestically manufactured versions of imported products.

According to Managing Director of EBDA Dina El-Dalil, the association  the Arabic acronym of which means start in English  is the economic arm of the Decent Life initiative that President Al-Sisi launched in 2019 with the aim of ensuring a dignified life for the most vulnerable groups nationwide by developing rural communities and improving essential utilities and public services.

EBDA is an Egyptian joint stock company, 81 per cent of whose shares are controlled by the Decent Life Foundation and whose objectives are integrated into the governments overall national objectives.

It has an initial target of saving $16 billion in foreign exchange (FX) through measures including localising further industries. According to El-Dalil, EBDA has localised 23 industries so far, and other steps include developing new industrial enterprises and forging partnerships with foreign firms.

To date, EBDA has established 64 new enterprises and forged 23 partnerships with partners from 12 countries.

Other ways for us to save foreign exchange are to encourage local factories to increase production for export and for Egypt to serve as an export hub for Africa, the Middle East, and Europe, El-Dalil said.

We have foreign partners that inject foreign direct investment (FDI), such as the Hawa Group in which our Chinese partners have provided a large part of the production lines.

The Hawa Group manufactures light transport equipment.

EBDA also operates a factory that produces natural gas safety valves in partnership with Copreci, one of the largest members of the Mondragon Assembly Group which specialises in their manufacture. The group has provided the production lines.

It has joint manufacturing agreements to produce water pumps with major international companies such as the Italian-based Gruppo Aturia and Torishima Pump from Japan, while other foreign firms have provided FDI. All this helps save foreign exchange, El-Dalil said.

Many of these projects directly benefit the recipients of the Decent Life initiative. Water pumps, for example, are essential for bringing potable water into peoples homes in Egyptian villages.

Localisation means replacing imported goods with Egyptian-made ones. One of our most important goals is to transform importers into manufacturers. We have succeeded in doing this with several firms, such as Raja Home Appliances which recently launched Raja EBDA, a company specialising in the manufacture of cookers, El-Dalil said.

Importer to manufacturer conversion is one of the most successful aspects of the EBDA initiative.

Localisation also equals job creation, which is one of EBDAs impacts that can be felt in the short term. We have factories that are already in operation and others that will open soon, El-Dalil said. Four new factories have been opened since it began. In addition to the two above, there is also an engine factory and a shoe factory.

Further efforts will focus on strategic industries, especially in the petrochemicals and construction material sectors.

In the interest of boosting domestic industry and job creation, EBDA is helping to reboot floundering factories and offers various types of training to workers.

It aims to save $16 billion through the establishment of 64 import-substitution projects that will create 150,000 direct job opportunities and contribute LE350 billion to GDP, El-Dalil said.

EBDA is a presidential initiative that receives support from various government agencies. We are a link between potential industrial entrepreneurs and various government agencies, and our purpose is to help smooth out and minimise obstacles and any challenges that might arise, she added.

We get to know the entrepreneurs needs and requirements, and we convey this information to government agencies and key decision-makers. Ultimately, the purpose is to create an environment that encourages investment and the indigenisation of various types of industries.

Young volunteers for the Decent Life initiative contribute to EBDAs drive to reinvigorate local industry. They carry out field surveys to gather information on struggling factories in the towns and villages served by the Decent Life initiative. This helps us to allocate the types of support that manufacturing enterprises in those areas need.

Occupational training goes hand in hand with this process, as do short-term and long-term plans. EBDA has established a training presence in the countryside through its factories, and it aims to train people in order to generate economic empowerment. Such plans are being carried out in Sohag and Gharbiya, but the idea is to expand them to all the governorates.

One of the training programmes is being implemented in partnership with Pico Heavy Equipment and aims to train the operators of heavy equipment such as loaders. In the process, were developing an initiative that offers a seven-year facilitated finance lease on a loader, payable in instalments, so that by the end of the period the trainee will not only have learned how to operate the machine, but he will also own it outright, El-Dalil said.

Long-terms plans are being carried out in collaboration with the Egyptian Federation of Industries and the Ministry of Labour and involve upgrading training centres affiliated with the Productivity and Vocational Training Department and developing technical colleges under the Ministry of Education and Training.

Our goal is to ensure that students and trainees emerge with internationally recognised certificates that could help us to export manpower at a future stage, El-Dalil said.

Recent economic circumstances have been hard for manufacturing enterprises, and EBDA is working to address this through its industrial support component. If theres a factory in trouble, we try to help it get back on its feet and then expand, she added.

We also try to help struggling startups to keep going by helping them obtain licences and permits and overcoming bureaucratic obstacles. If they need financing, we work with the agencies that can help, including the banks, and we also work with the enterprises themselves to produce the required feasibility studies.

A startup in energ=y technology had run up against a bureaucratic wall in its efforts to obtain a manufacturing licence, she said. The owner was about to close the factory and pack his bags and leave. But he changed his mind thanks to the help from EBDA.

Another success story is the Raja Companys new cooker, the first such household appliance to be domestically manufactured with 90 per cent local components. According to El-Dalil, the cooker will retail at an affordable LE600.

Localising the production of household appliances will be a great step forward for Egyptian industry because we import so many of them at great cost to the FX reserves.

She added that EBDA has been studying import patterns and FX outlays to identify which industries should be prioritised for industrial localisation.

* A version of this article appears in print in the 13 April, 2023 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly

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As part of efforts to rejuvenate central Cairo, the Interior Ministrys former headquarters is being developed into a mixed-use hub, reports Ahmed Morsy

Plans are in place to convert the seven-building complex that served as the headquarters of the Ministry of Interior for decades into a multi-purpose destination that includes a tech and business hub, a French university, serviced apartments and a hotel.

Details of the project were revealed last week after an agreement was signed between the real estate arm of the Sovereign Fund of Egypt (SFE)  the SFE Tourism, Real Estate and Antiquities Sub Fund  and the recently formed real-estate development company A Developments. A joint statement by SFE and A Developments said the deal had been awarded following a competitive bidding process launched in April last year. Under the deal, SFE  in its capacity as the propertys owner  will lease the complex to A Developments for 25 years in return for a fixed rental and share of revenues.

A Developments CEO Ahmed Osman told Al-Ahram Weekly that the company will invest LE800 million in renovating the complex.

This project will redefine the face of downtown Cairo, turning it into a destination for entrepreneurs, start-ups and young travellers, promoting the development of Egypts flourishing start-up scene as well as the tourism and real-estate sector, said Hala Al-Said, minister of planning and SFE chair.

The redevelopment, said Osman, complements state efforts to revive downtown Cairo. A Developments has hired the UK-based BDP, which specialises in the adaptive reuse of historic buildings, to oversee the project.

French business school IPAG will be an anchor tenant of the new scheme which will be the site of IPAGs first branch in Egypt. Despite its population density and large number of schools downtown Cairo, notes Osman, currently lacks a university campus.

To provide a mid-price alternative to the five-star and budget hotels in the area, the scheme will also include a three-star hotel and serviced apartments run by an international hotel management company, and retail units targeting students, tourists and downtown residents.

Downtown Cairo was first developed under khedive Ismail, who ruled Egypt between 1863 and 1879, as an elite residential quarter.

During the signing ceremony, SFE CEO Ayman Suleiman said that the redevelopment, together with the Tahrir repurposing project, is part of the SFEs strategy to preserve Cairos history by generating sustainable financial returns in partnership with the private sector.

In December 2021, Egypt signed a deal worth more than LE3.5 billion with a US consortium to upgrade the 14-storey Mugamma Al-Tahrir, also owned by the SFE. In August 2022, the consortium  led by Oxford Capital Group, Global Ventures Group and Al-Otaiba Investments  announced it would invest $200 million to transform the Mugamma into a luxury hotel.

In 2020, President Abdel-Fattah Al-Sisi issued a decree cancelling the public benefit status of a number of public properties, including former downtown ministry headquarters, moving their ownership to the SFE, which was established in 2018.

According to Prime Minister Mustafa Madbouli, Cairo is home to 537 historic buildings registered on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Cairo is rich in treasures and historical areas, and we are targeting a return of tourism to these sites, said Madbouli.

The redevelopment of the former headquarters of the Interior Ministry will be conducted in three phases, each of which will take a year, says Osman. The first phase, scheduled to be completed by the end of 2023, includes the university, business incubator and the commercial services area. The second includes the three-star hotel and serviced apartments and the third office space for start-ups and other businesses.

* A version of this article appears in print in the 13 April, 2023 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly

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In this episode, we were able to again learn a bit more about Cameron Vo and see the incredible compassion she displays for the victims of the crimes they are investigating, and also get a glimpse into how far Megan Smitty Garretson is willing to go to help Scott Forrester.





To recap this episode, the episode opens in Vienna in a ballet company. A ballerina is working with her male lead, and he is being very tough on her. We then go to the company practicing, and they announce that the ballerina, Nicolette Clark, is the Prima Ballerina for the upcoming show. After the rehearsal, she is upset and the director comes to speak to her. She says that others are unhappy that she has the lead, and he tells her to not listen to the trolls and she earned the part. We then see her walking to her car, and she is approached by a man who throws acid in her face.At the office, the First Lady calls Forrester and Kellett and asks them to go to Vienna and help with the case. Nicolette Clark is a rising ballerina in Vienna and one of only 4 Americans ever placed there and the first to be made a lead. After having acid thrown in her face, she was found by a fellow dancer and is being treated in a local hospital. Smitty tells them there was a rash of acid attacks in the past, and due to strong policing they were diminished. They head to Vienna. Vo seems particularly affected by the story.At the hospital, the Vienna detective tells them that he is shocked by the attack, as is the community, and he is waiting for clearance from the doctor to speak to Nicolette. They are introduced to the director, Yuri and Alva Boxler, who is on the board. They want to see Nicolette, but she is refusing, and they find out Alva and Nicolette are dating.While Forrester distracts the men, Vo goes in to speak to Nicolette. She says that she did not recognize the attacker, and asks what is the point finding out who did this when they have already won because her career is over. Vo says if she can remember anything to please contact her.Smitty and Kellett go to the ballet company and interview one of the other dancers, Kira Sokolo. She says she did not go to the hospital because she is the understudy, and has to be ready to step in. She says that Americans are too emotional. They ask Kira about a note attached to flowers sent to Nicolette that was an insult and she says she recognizes the writing. It is the male principle dancer, Constantine.Raines interviews him. He asks about the complaints he has had made against him by members of the company and that he sounds like he is a bully, but he says he was her partner and he would not ruin her career and he says who knows, he could be next.Smitty sees someone she recognizes and goes to speak with him. Piotre Effrement, a diplomat from Russia, is there and says that he is keeping watch for someone who is very protective of Kira. He also tells her that Vladislav Pavlovich, the man who is the brother of the man Forrester killed in Croatia, was found in Budapest and will only get 6 months in jail, but could get more if they are willing to make a deal.They identify the acid used in the attack as sulfuric trioxide, which is found in many household chemicals. They identify the soil found at the scene and narrow down sites of where it may have come from. The hospital calls and Nicolette is asking for Vo. She gives her more information about the attacker and the mask they wore. She says she has been thinking about all the hours she has given up to dance, and now it is gone in an instant. Vo tells her a story about how much she loved the piano, and her parents did not allow her to pursue it as a career, and that they do not always get to pursue the gifts they were born with, but you can find a new path. Nicolette allows her to come closer and Vo sees the damage and Nicolette asks her to find out who did this to her.Smitty tells Forrester about meeting with Effrement, and that Vladislav was found in Budapest and they think it was to hunt him. He warns her about working with a man like Piotre, but she says she would like to hear what he has to say.They return to the ballet and they are in rehearsal as the show is going to continue to go on, with Kira as the lead as she was the understudy. They ask about the troubling reports about Constantine, the male lead. He says the Board of Trustees voted to keep the production on, and that Alva insisted on it. Raines and Vo go to see him and he says the world must go on, and that he has responsibilities and that Nicolette said she does not want to see him.They find out he is Chief Interior Office of the Austrian Parliament. He says he is the last person on earth who would ever want to hurt Nicolette. They ask Nicolette about Alva Boxler and she says she broke up with him two weeks ago because she could not handle his secrets anymore, but he asked her not to say anything until after the performance. She says he did not take the break up well, but she did not think it was him as she would have recognized his voice, but he did say if she left him, she would be sorry.Smitty shares with them that Europol has been keeping tabs on Alva Boxler for years, as he has ties to many well known underworld criminals. His predecessor was accepting bribes and rumors are that these men expected the same from Alva. Vo and Raines go to speak with him, and he says he meant she would be sorry because she would never meet anyone like him again, not that he would hurt her, and he swears on his life he is not dirty. He says he is working with the Justice Ministry undercover and the police are not aware because it is an ongoing investigation, and it is need-to-know. He says with the Chancellors Office permission, they are welcome to examine all the records.Smitty goes to meet with Piotre. He asks to make a trade. Smitty asks for 50 years added to a sentence and Piotre asks for the release of another man, a Russian detainee, who has 2 years left on his sentence. Forrester asks if she talked to Piotre and what he wants, and she says to let her check on a few things first.They find out Alva is telling the truth and he has received lots of offer and threats to shake him down, but the ones from Leon Oliver jump out, as he was not being granted construction contracts as he had been in the past. His communication stopped the day Nicolette was attacked and he is Austrian with links to organized crime. They get an address and he is not there and they find chemicals and equipment to make the acid and an IED.They dig into everything they know about Leon Oliver and find a construction company owned by Leons brother. Forrester and Kellett go and Leon is there and a shoot-out and car chase ensue. Raines joins the pursuit and Oliver rolls his car. He is arrested.The First Lady is thrilled that they solved the case, and the Vienna police let them know they have been sent tickets to the opening of the ballet, but Scott says they are not able to accept.Smitty goes to the opening to meet with Piotre, and tells him that the man he wants released will not be going anywhere, but to tell him that Kira is being bumped from her prima spot to the back of the stage as the Board of Trustees owes them a big favor. Smitty says Kira will remain prima if Vlad gets 50 years. He agrees and says the judge has reconsidered and Vlad is getting 50 years.Vo goes to the hospital to show Nicolette a livestream of the performance as she wished she could attend. Yuri announces that Nicolette will be a new resident choreographer once she recovers. She asks if Vos parents really forced her to give up piano for WestPoint, and she says yes and that while she was mad at the time, it was the best thing that could have happened. They watch the ballet performance together.There were a few key things that were notable about this episode in particular. The first was a further glimpse into the past and learning more layers about Cameron Vo. We have never heard about her love of music, even when working the case last season with the hostage situation with the symphony. This is also the first we have heard that a career in the Military and then law enforcement was not her first choice. This is very fascinating, as with how she has excelled at both, it is hard not to believe she was always driven to follow this path. It was also so lovely to see her amazing compassion that she has again, like we have seen several times this season. It seems that Cameron has a real soft side, which we have yet to see fully explored. Perhaps if we see further developments between her and Raines, we will have an opportunity to see an overall softer side to Vo.The other notable theme was the very protective actions of Smitty when it comes to protecting Forrester. It seems that she went to great lengths to strike up a deal to ensure that the man accused of potentially trying to harm Forrester is not released. We still have not learned the full details of their backstory and the time they worked together in the past, and one can only wonder if we will ever find out the full picture and if there was any romance or romantic feelings involved in their past. I guess only time will tell.One thing is for sure howeverthe FBI writers continue to keep us on our toes, and continue to add layers of depth and mystery that make us want to keep tuning in and learning more about these characters each week.
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The Connecticut Medical Examining Board voted Tuesday to allow two physicians accused of wrongdoing, including a doctor who had sex with a patient, to avoid discipline by allowing them to voluntarily agree to not renew their license to practice.

The board also fined a third physician $8,000 who was accused of failing to maintain records in connection with the storage and dispensing of Alprazolam, an anti-anxiety medication, and inappropriately prescribing the drug to a family member.

The board unanimously voted to allow Dr. Nicholas Bennett, a pediatrician and infectious disease physician formerly with Connecticut Children's Medical Center, to avoid discipline after he agreed not to renew his license, which is due to expire on April 30. Bennett was accused of having sex with a patient in 2018 and 2019, state Department of Public Health documents said.

The patient who spoke during the board's meeting said she didn't contact law enforcement because she was afraid, but she is concerned that he had other victims.

"I'm confident that there are other people he hurt," the woman said. "Protecting institutions and reputations were more important than protecting people like me."

A spokesperson for CCMC said Bennett left before the statement of charges filed against him was issued by the DPH in 2022. She declined to comment on any other aspect of his employment, including how long he worked there, citing state laws regarding employee privacy.

Bennett was seeing a patient from November 2017 to November 2018 to diagnose the person for a potential HIV infection, but wound up "grooming" her for an "intimate or sexual relationship," according to the statement of charges issued in May 2022 by the DPH for the board to consider discipline.

From December 2018 to March 2019, Bennett is accused by DPH officials of having a sexual relationship with the patient, violating the standard of care, DPH officials said. The DPH documents did not specify if the person was an adult or a child. The agency received the complaint about the sexual activity from CCMC, DPH officials said Monday.

Bennett, who now lives in Ponte Verde, Fla., does not have a license to practice medicine in that state. As part of the agreement with the Connecticut DPH, Bennett has given up his right to seek renewal of his license and he will not practice medicine from now until his license lapses at the end of this month, DPH documents said.

The board also agreed to drop the medical charges against Dr. Anatoly Braylovsky, who was accused of practicing medicine with a suspended physician and surgical license at least seven times in March 2021, DPH documents said.

Braylovsky did not renew his license when it lapsed in May 2021 and has no medical licenses in any other state, documents said. His license was suspended in September 2020 due to his prescribing practices, a DPH interim consent order said.

The board also agreed to issue an $8,000 fine and reprimand the license of Dr. Ilja Hulinsky, who failed to properly maintain records on the storage and dispensing of Alprazolam in his private practice in 2021 when he brought the drug to his home and failed to report a discrepancy in the amount in his possession, DPH documents said. Hulinsky also failed to meet the standard of care when he prescribed the drug to an immediate family member, the documents said.

Hulinsky has completed a two-day course in prescribing practices, DPH officials said in the document.
GREENWICH  Police arrested a Stamford man who allegedly smuggled fentanyl into Greenwich Hospital using a get-well card.

Police said a suspected drug provider, Eugene Wasicki, 53, of Burr Street, Stamford, allegedly took fentanyl to the hospital on the night of March 21, reportedly providing it to a patient there who was in treatment for a respiratory issue.

The drug, a powerful synthetic opioid that has been linked to thousands of overdose deaths in recent years, was concealed in a card, according to the arrest report.

The patient went into "respiratory distress after ingesting the suspected fentanyl," the arrest report stated. Hospital staff treated the individual and discovered what appeared to be a packet of drugs in the person's possession, and police were notified.

"After being treated by medical staff, the patient related it was Wasicki who delivered them the fentanyl, which was concealed within a greeting card," the report continued.

Wasicki, who turned himself in on an arrest warrant April 6, was charged with sale of a controlled substance, a felony, and second-degree reckless endangerment, a misdemeanor. He was later released after a $25,000 surety bond was posted for him.

Wasicki has a history of drug-related offenses. He was charged in Danbury in 2008 with an attempt to obtain 23 pounds of marijuana. The disposition of that case was unknown.

In 2020, police raided his residence and seized a half ounce of heroin mixed with fentanyl, along with a pistol and almost 200 rounds of ammunition, authorities said at the time. He pleaded guilty in that case and was sentenced to five years probation, according to judicial records.
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STAMFORD  A 26-year-old city man who is on the states deadly weapons offender registry allegedly was found passed out in a vehicle with an illegal ghost gun under the driver's seat Friday night, according to police.

Stamford Assistant Police Chief Richard Conklin said patrol officers responded to a Houston Terrace home around 3 a.m. Friday morning on reports of a vehicle blocking a driveway.

When officers arrived, they found the cars driver passed out inside, Conklin said.

Conklin said officers determined the driver, 26-year-old Lamont Watts Jr., was intoxicated at the scene and placed him under arrest.

A breathalyzer test registered Watts's blood alcohol level at .12, Conklin said.

While detaining Watts, officers discovered a 9mm ghost gun equipped with an illegal high-capacity magazine beneath the drivers seat, according to Conklin. Officers also recovered a switchblade in the car, he said.

Watts, who was convicted of illegal possession of weapon in a motor vehicle and possession of a pistol without a permit in 2019, is on the states deadly weapons offender registry list and is prohibited from possessing weapons.

The Connecticut Deadly Weapon Offender Registry is a database kept by state law enforcement officials of people who have been convicted of one of the states 42 crimes involving guns or knives. Those convicted of such crimes must enroll in the registry for five years following their release from prison.

Watts was charged with operating under the influence, criminal possession of a firearm, possession of a weapon without a serial number, possession of a pistol without a permit, possession of an illegal high-capacity magazine, illegal possession of a weapon in a motor vehicle and possession of a firearm while under the influence.

Watts posted a $100,000 bond and is scheduled to be arraigned at the state Superior Court on April 25.
A proposal to increase Medicaid reimbursement rates for mental health assessments at school-based clinics cleared the legislature's Human Services Committee on Monday, moving it one step closer to becoming law.

Under the legislation, known as House Bill 6643, Medicaid would reimburse suicide risk assessments and other mental health evaluations at school-based health centers or in public schools.

"We've seen in the wake of the pandemic and even before, a catastrophic mental health crisis among our children, and we really want to get support and services to these children earlier and save lives," said Rep. Anne Hughes, D-Easton, said before the vote. "So that's what this is trying to do."

Currently, providers say the lack of reimbursement hinders their ability to provide these assessments as frequently as they would like to.

Rep. Sarah Keitt, D-Fairfield, argued Wednesday that providers should be reimbursed so that students may receive suicide risk assessments as often as they need to.

"We need to be able to make sure that providers are being reimbursed every time they see a student for risk of suicide," she said. "Because one screening in September may not catch the emotions come November or December."

The proposal, which had already cleared the Committee on Children, advanced near-unanimously out of the Human Services Committee, with Rep. Gale Mastrofrancesco, R-Wolcott the sole legislator to vote against it.

Rep. Jay Case, R-Winsted, voted to advance the bill but said its impact would be limited given the relatively small number of school-based mental health clinics in the state.

"Any child that we can catch is one we've done good for, but I worry that we don't have this throughout the state given everything that we've been going through," he said.

Connecticut currently has 280 school-based mental health centers spread among districts across the state, according to the Connecticut Association of School Based Health Centers. The centers are largely concentrated in cities but also exist in various suburban and rural towns throughout all eight Connecticut counties.

In written testimony ahead of a February public hearing, supporters of HB 6643 argued that strengthening mental health services in Connecticut schools is more important than ever amid rising youth suicide rates. Last year, one study found that visits to the ER for suicidal thoughts increased 59 percent among young people from 2016-17 to 2019-21, while hospitalizations for suicidal thoughts increased 57 percent between fall 2019 and fall 2020.

Last year, the Connecticut legislature passed several sweeping bills aimed at increasing children's mental health services and reducing depression and suicide among kids in the state.

According to the CASBHC, state-funded school-based sites conducted nearly 11,000 mental health assessments during the 2021-22 school year, none of which were reimbursable. Representatives from the CASBHC testified in February that allowing the assessments to be reimbursed would enable school-based health centers to provide them more regularly.

"Connecticut students face unprecedented rates of mental and emotional health issues," John Flanders, chairman of the CASBHC's advocacy committee testified. "School-based health centers are a crucial resource to protect and serve the needs of these children."

In addition to the CASBHC, HB 6643 also drew support from the Office of the Child Advocate, the Connecticut Education Association, Connecticut Children's Care Network, the National Alliance on Mental Illness and others.

Andrea Barton-Reeves, commissioner of Connecticut's Department of Social Services, neither supported nor opposed the proposal but testified that the department "would appreciate the opportunity to conduct additional clinical and fiscal analysis."

The Human Services Committee also voted to advance two other bills Monday: one that would let out-of-state providers offer telehealth services and another that would expand the circumstances under which the Department of Public Health would be required to approve a change in ownership of a health care facility.
A Waterbury man pleaded guilty Tuesday to the homicides of three Massachusetts residents, according to the Hampden District Attorneys office.

Calvin Roberson, 41, was charged in connection with the fatal shootings of Loan Nguyen, 30, in December 2006; Yonaides Pichardo, 28, in October 2016; and David Pichardo, 27, in October 2017, Hampden District Attorney Anthony D. Gulluni said in a news release Tuesday.

Roberson entered the guilty plea in three counts of manslaughter during his arraignment in Hampden Superior Court Tuesday afternoon. Roberson was arraigned on manslaughter charges as not to conflict with his ongoing case in federal court, Gulluni said.

Roberson, also known as "Cutty," has been held in federal custody since February 2021 after being charged with the kidnapping and murder of Francisco Roman, of Chicopee, Mass.

Roman, 31, was reported missing on Christmas 2020. His body was found in a black 2010 Acura, engulfed in flames, in Hartford the next day, the U.S. Attorney's office said at the time of Roberson's arrest. Roman had suffered several gunshot wounds.

Federal prosecutors said Roberson and his co-defendant, Brandon Batiste, of Springfield, Mass., kidnapped Roman on Dec. 24, 2020, killed him and attempted to dispose of his body in the burning vehicle, according to the U.S. Attorney's office.

"If convicted of the charges, the defendants face a maximum term of imprisonment of life, or death if the government seeks the death penalty in this matter," the U.S. Attorney's office said.

While several agencies investigated the incident, investigators received information that Calvin Roberson was responsible for multiple other unresolved homicides in Springfield, Gulluni said.

Through the phenomenal investigative work done collectively by these partner agencies, we will give victims families answers and justice as the defendant admits his guilt in taking their loved ones from them, he continued. The initial investigation bringing Calvin Roberson to justice was nothing short of extraordinary.

According to Gullunis office, the first homicide occurred on Dec. 7, 2006, when Roberson and two other masked men entered a Springfield nail salon in an attempted robbery. The three men held Nguyen, her colleague and a patron against their wills, duct-taping their hands.

Responding officers found Nguyen with a gunshot wound to her head.

On Oct. 11, 2016, officers found Yonaides Pichardo in his car on Sycamore Street. He was also shot in the head and pronounced dead at the scene.

A little over a year later, on Oct. 19, 2017, Roberson shot Yonaides Pichardos brother, David Pichardo, inside a laundromat. Officers found David Pichardo at the back of the building, suffering from a gunshot wound with a weak pulse and gasping for air, Gullunis office said.

David Pichardo was taken to Baystate Medical Center where he died from his injuries, according to Gullunis office.
The world is on the verge of a tectonic shift in the balance of power as a result of Chinas growing economic and political influence, writes Amr Helmy

Following the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, a number of political and strategic studies centres came out with reports predicting attempts to rein in globalisation and mitigate its adverse effects, terming this the deglobalisation drive.

However, the fact is that as a result of advances in super-fast digital technologies and the growing integration of international markets, globalisation is here to stay. What we can expect, on the other hand, is an attempt to reexamine some of the international supply chains that developed as a result of the large flows of foreign capital into China.

If foreign investment was initially drawn to China because of the comparative advantages offered by its relatively inexpensive labour force, investors soon also began to realise the competitive advantages that were related to the huge absorptive capacity of Chinas domestic market, the skill and discipline of its labour force, and the high quality of Chinese scientists and technicians.

Such factors combined to bring about the gradual transformation that turned China into the worlds largest production and manufacturing base. As so many firms have since transferred the production of their manufactures or main components to China, the countrys manufacturing base can now affect how the multinationals produce many products in advanced manufacturing sectors.

US investments in China are estimated at about $163 billion, of which $11 billion arrived in 2022 alone, and the EU countries have about $140 billion worth of investments in the country.

With the advent of the age of great-power competition in which the US is determined to secure its position at the helm of a unipolar world order and eliminate rivals threatening its status as the worlds sole superpower, US political elites have become increasingly aware of the fact that the volume of Western investments in China and the access that Chinese students and researchers have had to the best sources of knowledge and know-how in US and European universities and research centres have been instrumental in Chinas rise to its position today as one of the worlds most important economic and technological powers.

China has surpassed the US, Germany, and Japan as the worlds largest exporter, with exports totalling around $3.6 trillion in 2022, compared with the US at $2.6 trillion, Germany at $1.5 trillion and Japan at $910 billion.

A significant portion of Chinas success comes from the exports of Western manufacturing companies based in China, with these having helped China to become the worlds largest producer of steel, cement, mobile phones, and container ships. China produces two-thirds of the worlds production of photocopiers, microwave ovens, and compact discs. It is a world leader in electronics, from TVs to computers, in clean and renewable energy, and in the automotive industry, including in spare parts and conventional and electric vehicles.

Products like these together with household supplies, furniture, textiles, ready-made clothes, DIY tools and equipment, satellite dishes and innumerable other products have enabled China to increase its exports to the US by 1,700 per cent over the past 15 years. As a result, the US trade deficit with China reached $382 billion in 2022, the largest with any other country.

The EU countries combined have a $164 billion trade deficit with China. Beijing possesses the largest foreign exchange reserves in the world, estimated at $3.46 trillion in 2022, compared to Japans $1.2 trillion and the EUs $310 billion.

Chinas defence industries are also booming in tandem with its steadily increasing military expenditure, which rose to $224.7 billion in the countrys 2023 budget. China has the worlds largest standing army, sophisticated defence systems and a large nuclear arsenal, inclusive of delivery systems.

Such developments have increased Western concerns over Chinas growing strategic weight and contributed to rising suspicions of the intentions behind the Belt and Road Initiative, which brings Chinese influence close to major maritime routes as Beijing expands its diplomatic activities and networks of bilateral and multilateral cooperation.

The US has seen Chinas growing influence as one of the most dangerous challenges to the US and the West in general for some years.

The Annual Threat Assessment of the US Intelligence Community released by the US Office of the Director of National Intelligence on 6 February 2023 states that Chinas Communist Party (CCP) will continue efforts to achieve President Xi Jinpings vision of making China the preeminent power in East Asia and a major power on the world stage and that it will also work to press Taiwan on unification.

Chinas rapidly expanding... artificial intelligence (AI) and big data analytics capabilities could expand beyond domestic use and could challenge the competitiveness of US technologies, it says. Chinas cyber pursuits and its industrys export of related technologies increase the threats of aggressive cyber operations against the US homeland, and China is a top threat to US technological competitiveness, as Beijing targets key sectors and proprietary commercial and military technology from US and allied companies and institutions.

In other words, Washingtons objections to China go well beyond the matter of commerce and the trade deficit to include the question of Taiwan, growing Chinese influence in East Asia, its penetration into Africa, its relations with Russia, its diplomatic offensive in the Middle East, its weapons sales and its growing scientific and technological prowess.

The world is on the verge of a tectonic shift in the balance of power as a result of a set of interrelated factors, not the least of which are Chinas growing international influence, the repercussions of the war in Ukraine, and the clash between the West and Russia that is currently centred around Ukraine.

Developments in these areas may lead to a reduction in the intensity of the current unipolarism and a gradual erosion of the Western monopoly on power, wealth, and influence that has prevailed since the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 and the end of the Cold War.

China has already begun to challenge US leadership as it strives to outperform the Western democracies using a different model of political and economic governance. The Western democracies have exerted enormous efforts to redraw the political map of the Middle East for years, while ignoring what was happening in East Asia. Now they have woken up to a reality that they have no alternative but to accept.

They can neither force China back to where it stood in the early 1980s, and nor can they provoke the Chinese leadership into a reckless slide into military confrontation. Beijing has taken off, and it is taking Moscow with it. It will not let Russia suffer the defeat that the West has planned for it in Ukraine. The West should deal with such realities wisely and not exaggerate its ability to change them.

The writer is a senator and diplomat.

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WASHINGTON (AP)  Democrats efforts to temporarily replace California Sen. Dianne Feinstein on the Senate Judiciary Committee met quick opposition Monday from Republicans, complicating their plan as some of President Joe Bidens judicial nominees remain on hold during her extended medical absence.

Feinstein, 89, last week asked to be temporarily replaced on the Senate Judiciary Committee while she recuperates in her home state from a case of the shingles. The statement came shortly after a member of Californias House delegation, Democratic Rep. Ro Khanna, called on her to resign from the Senate, saying it is unacceptable for her to miss votes to confirm judges who could be weighing in on abortion rights, a key Democratic priority. Feinstein has been away from the Senate since February.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said Monday that he is moving forward and hopes to put a resolution on the Senate floor this week seeking a temporary substitute on the panel. But it's unclear if Democrats will have the votes.

Multiple Republicans indicated on Monday that they would object to the rare request, meaning there would have to be a roll call vote  and Democrats would need at least 10 Republicans to vote with them for approval.

Texas Sen. John Cornyn, a Republican on the Judiciary committee, said on the Senate floor that he hopes to see Feinstein back in the Senate soon, but until then, President Bidens most controversial, partisan judicial nominees will have to wait.

Iowa Sen. Joni Ernst, a member of Republican leadership, said she wouldn't support a temporary replacement. Were not going to help the Democrats with that," she told reporters.

The uncertainty over Feinstein's status, and over the fate of some of Bidens judicial nominees, is the latest tangle for Schumer as he navigates his partys one-seat majority in the Senate. Feinsteins absence comes as another Democratic senator, John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, has also been on an extended medical leave. Fetterman, 53, returned to the Senate on Monday after checking himself into the hospital in February for clinical depression.

It also comes as bipartisan votes on federal judgeships  lifetime appointments, in most cases  have been increasingly steeped in partisanship. While the Judiciary committee has moved some of Bidens judicial nominees with a handful of GOP votes, Republicans are loath to give approval to a plan that will help Biden place more judges on the bench.

I will not go along with Chuck Schumers plan to replace Senator Feinstein on the Judiciary Committee and pack the court with activist judges, tweeted Sen. Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., a member of the Judiciary panel.

Democrats say the are currently 12 federal judge nominees they have been unable to advance because of Feinsteins absence. It is unclear how many of the nominees would be able to move with some Republican support.

Several Republicans questioned the motivations behind the effort. North Carolina Sen. Thom Tillis said he was skeptical because Democrats aren't trying to replace Feinstein on the Intelligence or Appropriations panels.

Why one and not all three? asked Tillis, who is also a member of the Judiciary Committee.

Republican Sens. Susan Collins of Maine and Chuck Grassley of Iowa said they think Democrats are pressuring Feinstein unfairly.

Collins said that she and Feinstein are good friends, and she thinks there has been a concerted campaign to push her off the Judiciary committee. I will have no part of that, Collins said.

Feinstein has come under increasing pressure to resign or step down from her duties. While she has defended her effectiveness, she has faced questions in recent years about her cognitive health and memory, and has appeared increasingly frail.

In 2020, she said she would not serve as the top Democrat on the Judiciary panel after criticism from liberals about her handling of of Justice Amy Coney Barretts confirmation. Earlier this year, she said she would not serve as the Senate president pro tempore, or the most senior member of the majority party, even though she was in line to do so. The president pro tempore opens the Senate every day and holds other ceremonial duties.

Iowa Sen. Chuck Grassley, a longtime member of the panel who is the same age as Feinstein, chastised Democrats for denying Feinstein the opportunity to become chairman of the committee and trying to force her out of office because shes old."

I dont intend to give credence to that sort of anti-human treatment," Grassley said.

If Feinstein were to resign immediately, the process would be much easier for Democrats, since California Gov. Gavin Newsom would appoint a replacement. The Senate regularly approves committee assignments for new senators after their predecessors have resigned or died. But a temporary replacement due to illness is a rare, if not unprecedented, request.

It is unclear how long Feinstein will be away. Her office has not given a timeline for her return, and Democrats have not said for how long they would seek a temporary replacement. She has been away from the Senate since Feb. 27, just two weeks after she announced she would not run for another term next year.

Schumer said he spoke to Feinstein in recent days, and she believes she will return soon. She is hopeful of that and so am I.

Asked if Feinstein should resign, Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Dick Durbin said Monday that Im not going to push her into any other decision. Durbin had previously expressed frustration about his committee's stalled nominees.

Durbin appealed to his Republican colleagues to show a little kindness and caring for their colleague."

If the Senate votes to replace her on the panel, I think we can take care of this issue, do it very quickly, Durbin said. "I hope we can find 10 Republicans who will join us in that effort.
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WASHINGTON (AP)  House Speaker Kevin McCarthy pledged Monday to pass legislation to raise the nation's debt ceiling  but only on condition of capping future federal spending increases at 1%  as he lashed out at President Joe Biden for refusing to engage in budget-cutting negotiations to prevent a debt crisis.

In a high-profile speech at the New York Stock Exchange, McCarthy, the Republican leader who was marking his 100th day as speaker, said the nations debt load is a ticking time bomb and Biden is missing in action as the deadline nears to raise the debt limit. But McCarthy's own ability to bring his plan to passage as promised is highly uncertain.

Late Monday, House Republicans rallied around the speaker as he returned to Capitol Hill, with preparations underway for a vote on the package as soon as next week  a rapid turnaround. McCarthy is expected to brief House Republicans privately early Tuesday morning on the details. Even though the Republican plan's chances in the Democratic-controlled Senate are dismal, House approval could serve as a calling card pressuring Biden to negotiate.

Since the president continues to hide, House Republicans will take action," McCarthy vowed.

The White House hit back quickly, accusing McCarthy of dangerous economic hostage taking." And administration officials reupped Biden's pressure on the Republican leader to approve a debt ceiling increase with no strings attached.

McCarthy's Wall Street address came with Washington heading toward a potential fiscal crisis over the need to raise the nation's debt limit, now at $31 trillion, and avert a federal default. The Treasury Department has said it is taking extraordinary measures to continue paying its bills, but money will run short this summer.

While vowing that defaulting on our debt is not an option, McCarthy faces his own challenges pushing a legislative fix to passage.

With his slim majority and less-than-strong grip on power, he has been unable to rally his Republican troops around a budget-cutting proposal that he could offer the White House as a starting point in negotiations.

Instead, McCarthy is seeking to shift blame for the standoff and draw the White House back into talks. The longer President Biden waits to be sensible to find an agreement, the more likely it becomes that this administration will bumble into the first default in our nations history, he said.

White House deputy press secretary Andrew Bates called McCarthys conditions a MAGA wish list that will increase costs for hard-working families, a reference to former President Donald Trumps Make America Great Again slogan.

A speech isnt a plan, but it did showcase House Republicans priorities, said Bates.

The White House has said the ball is in McCarthys court, saying he has promised to produced a budget plan but has thus far failed to deliver. Senior Biden advisers doubt McCarthys ability to hold his Republican majority together to pass anything, and see little need to even express openness to concessions to a leader they doubt can deliver.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said its McCarthy who continues to bumble our country toward a catastrophic default.

President Biden and I are happy to meet with the speaker when he has something to talk about, Schumer said.

Nevertheless, McCarthy was both upbeat and defiant as he vowed to pass a bill through the House in coming weeks. Lawmakers were briefed on a weekend conference call, and said they expected a vote by the end of April.

The plan he outlined would raise the nation's debt limit into next year  putting the issue squarely in the 2024 presidential election  coupling it with a plan to roll back federal spending to fiscal 2022 levels, recoup unspent COVID-19 funds and cap future spending at no more than 1% a year over the next decade.

Republicans, he said, also want to attach policy priorities, including imposing work requirements to recipients of government aid that would result in cuts to benefit programs in the federal safety net for poorer Americans.

And McCarthy said the House Republicans also want to tack on H.R. 1, an expansive energy bill that would favor oil, gas and coal production  and ease permitting regulations  undoing many of Biden's climate change-fighting initiatives.

Without commenting on the House plans, Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell said the president can't simply put his fingers in his ears. The White House needs to stop wasting time and start negotiating with the speaker, he said.

Many economists have suggested that it may take a stock market selloff to force an agreement, showing the risks of a possible default. But McCarthy said after his speech during a question period that he wasnt gauging market reaction for guidance on the debt limit.

The markets go up and down, he said.

Once a routine matter, the need for Congress to pass legislation raising the nation's debt limit to continue paying already accrued bills has increasingly become a political weapon wielded particularly by Republicans as leverage for their policy priorities.

McCarthy is working furiously to unite the five families  the various caucuses including the Freedom Caucus, Republican Study Committee and others within the House Republican majority  around a plan that could be presented to Biden to kickstart negotiations.

Rep. Scott Perry, R-Pa., the chairman of the Freedom Caucus, called the plan a step in the right direction, but said he still needed to see the details.

Federal spending skyrocketed during the COVID-19 crisis, rising to $7.4 trillion in 2021, before sliding back to $6.2 trillion in fiscal 2022, according to Treasury Department data. The nations debt load has also climbed steadily, doubling during the George W. Bush administration with the 9/11-era wars overseas and spiking again during the Obama administration as spending rose and tax revenue plummeted during the Great Recession.

The nation runs more than $1 trillion in annual deficits, and the last time the federal budget balanced was 2001.

McCarthy noted that President Ronald Reagan similarly warned of government spending. The cuts the House Republicans want to make are not draconian, McCarthy said.

He pledged not to touch the Medicare and Social Security programs important to older Americans that other Republicans want to cut.

Once, his speech was interrupted by applause from the executives and others at the stock exchange.

The White House and Democrats in Congress have been unwilling to engage in talks with the Republicans, saying Congress must simply raise the debt limit without conditions.

Biden in particular, has been here before as vice president during the 2011 fiscal standoff that sent jitters through the economy as the Republicans demanded steep spending cuts.

The sweeping proposal from McCarthy will likely be too expansive for the White House to consider, but serves as a political lever to push Biden back to the negotiating table.

The split screen on display in New York, though, showed the challenges ahead for McCarthy in focusing on budget matters.

As the speaker delivered his speech, his hard-charging Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan was convening a New York City field hearing focused partly on District Attorney Alvin Bragg, who indicted Trump on campaign finance and other charges related to alleged hush money payments to adult film star Stormy Daniels and a Playboy model who contend he had sexual relations with them.

___

Associated Press White House Correspondent Zeke Miller and AP writers Josh Boak, Kevin Freking and Mary Clare Jalonick contributed to this report.
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TORONTO (AP)  The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation paused its use of Twitter on Monday after the social media platform owned by Elon Musk stamped CBCs account with a label the public broadcaster says is intended to undermine its credibility.

Twitter labelled CBC/Radio-Canada government-funded media"  the same label that prompted National Public Radio in the U.S. to similarly quit Twitter last Wednesday.

Twitter can be a powerful tool for our journalists to communicate with Canadians, but it undermines the accuracy and professionalism of the work they do to allow our independence to be falsely described in this way, CBC spokesman Leon Mar said in a statement announcing the change Monday afternoon.

Consequently, we will be pausing our activity on our corporate Twitter account and all CBC and Radio-Canada news-related accounts," the statement said.

CBC has sent a letter to Twitter asking the company to re-examine the designation. Musk later tweeted about it and changed it to 69 percent Government-funded media.

CBC does not meet those criteria, Mar argued, because it is publicly funded through a parliamentary appropriation that is voted upon by all members of Parliament, and its editorial independence is protected in law in the Broadcasting Act.

The CBCs board of directors determines how the funding it receives is spent. In 2021-22, the CBC received more than $1.2 billion Canadian (US$900 million) in government funding.

Opposition Conservative Party of Canada Pierre Poilievre had urged Twitter to label CBC. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau criticized Poilievre for what he called an attack on a foundational Canadian institution.

Twitter initially had labelled NPRs main account as state-affiliated media,  a term also used to identify media outlets controlled or heavily influenced by authoritarian governments, such as Russia and China. Twitter later changed the label to government-funded media, but to NPR  which relies on the government for a tiny fraction of its funding  its still misleading.

Twitter earlier responded to a request for comment about why the label was applied and whether it would be removed or changed with an auto-generated email bearing a poop emoji.

Twitter, more than any of its rivals, has said its users come to it to keep track of current events. That made it an attractive place for news outlets to share their stories and reinforced Twitters moves to combat the spread of misinformation. But Musk has long expressed disdain for professional journalists and said he wants to elevate the views and expertise of the average citizen.

Musk has also abruptly suspended the accounts of individual journalists who wrote about Twitter late last year, claiming some were trying to reveal his location.

Twitter earlier in April removed the verification check mark on the main account of The New York Times, singling out the newspaper and disparaging its reporting after it said it would not pay Twitter for verification of its institutional accounts.

Twitter also used to tag journalists and other high-profile accounts with blue check marks to verify their identity and distinguish them from impostors. But Musk has derided the marks as an undeserved status symbol and plans to take them away from anyone not buying a premium subscription.
G ift collection platform GiftRound has added an extra layer of security to ensure that the money raised through an electronic whip round ends up safely in the hands of the recipient.

The five year old company has strengthened its partnership with its payment infrastructure provider Mangopay to offer a seamless payment experience for users.

GiftRound allows groups to organise group gift collections electronically for recipients such work colleagues, childrens teachers or newlyweds without any cash being handled. It also has an online store allowing physical gifts to be purchased.

So far it has processed around 75,000 pots of money totalling more than 10.5 million using the Mangopay technology, which ensure the security of money collection, fraud prevention and anti-money laundering.

Now GiftRound will also use Mangopays e-wallet modular technology, adding a further layer of protection and security ahead of the dispersing of funds. It will provide flexible and scalable pay-in and pay-out capabilities critical for the platform.

GiftRounds CEO and founder Craig Forsythe said: Having started this journey with Mangopay in 2018, were delighted to continue working together. Payment flows are crucial for us as we work on maintaining our high levels of growth by listening to our customers to improve their payment experience on our platform.

It is key for us to work with a trusted partner and we know that crowdfunding payment flows are part of Mangopays DNA. Mangopay will enable us to process multiple payment flows daily in the safest way possible and we look forward to continuing to grow a reliable, secure service with our trusted partner.

Luke Trayfoot, Mangopays Chief Revenue Officer, said: Our modular and flexible payment infrastructure is a necessary asset for platforms, especially as they look to further improve their payment operations, user experience and scalability. We are proud to support GiftRound on its payment journey and help their customers organise gift collections quickly and easily. The UK represents a key growth market for Mangopay and having national partners such as GiftRound is fundamental for our expansion in the market.

GiftRound plans to launch in Ireland also using Mangopays payment capabilities.
G SK announced plans today to spend 1.6 billion on buying Canadian drug maker Bellus Health in a move that will help revitalise the Citys reputation for dealmaking while bringing a potential blockbuster cough treatment to the FTSE 100 company.

The $2 billion shot in the arm for the capital comes after a recent quiet spell for mergers and acquisitions added to worries about its status as a major international M&A venue.

The fact this bid originated from the UK offers some genuine contrast to recent narratives about the death of the London market, Joshua Mahony, chief market analyst at Scope Markets said.

This trend of buyouts in the pharmaceutical sector is only likely to grow over time, with many firms sitting on huge cash piles and seeking to expand revenues ahead of expiration of current drug patents.

Richard Hunter, head of markets at Interactive Investor, called the deal is a reminder that the UK stock market still has legs, adding: it is further evidence of the move away from the traditional research and development departments of the pharma majors to a more acquisitive and specialised strategy.

GSKs move -- priced at $14.75-per share -- is the largest since the Brentford-based company demerged its consumer health business from its drug making wing last year. It is smaller than GSKs last such swoop, the $5 billion it spent on Tesaro in 2019.

Todays bid will mean the acquisition of Camlipixant, a drug for chronic coughs which the company says afflict 28 million people worldwide , with 10 million of them having symptoms for over a year. The treatment is expected to reach the market in 2026.

Luke Miels, GSKs chief commercial officer, said: this proposed acquisition complements our portfolio of specialty medicines and builds on our expertise in respiration.

Bellus CEO Roberto Bellini called GSK the ideal company to rapidly bring Camlipixant to the millions suffering from refractory chronic cough around the world.

The deal is subject to regulatory approval. GSKs stock slipped 5p to 1508p.
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Research from Imperial College London suggests air pollution is damaging at all stages of life.

Commissioned by the Greater London Authority, the findings look at evidence from more than 35,000 studies over ten years.

It shows exposure to certain particles could lead to miscarriages, cause low sperm count and stunt children's lung growth. As well as cause chronic illnesses, cancer and strokes in adults.

The research is published as former Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, publicly criticised the planned expansion of Ulez by the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, saying it has nothing to do with air pollution.

The Ulez expansion, which is scheduled to come in on 29th August, continues to divide opinion.

Mr Khan is facing a High Court challenge over the plans after a judge accepted a request from five Conservative councils for a judicial review.

Frank Kelly, professor of community health and policy at Imperial College London, explains the significance of this study and why there should be nothing political when it comes to air quality.

Listen above, and find us on your Spotify Daily Drive or wherever you stream your podcasts.
With the advent of Eid El-Fitr, many women are opting to style up their prayers outfits.

With less than a few days to go before Eid El-Fitr, Rana was sifting through Instagram to pick a new essdal (a loose outfit for prayers that covers the hair and body) for the early morning prayers of the first day of the feast.

Having had the booster shot of the COVID-19 vaccine, Rana is happy to resume a favourite tradition that has been suspended for two years due to the pandemic. For this occasion, she decided to invest a few hundred pounds in a new essdal.

Rana, unveiled, is used to buying an essdal once every few years. For praying at home, she uses cotton essdals. Nothing fancy at all, just to serve the purpose, she said.

It was in 2000 that Rana started attending Quran recitation, and she decided it was not good enough to wear a veil and long outfit to perform her five prayers at home. It was around that time, she said, that many charity groups started to make simple essdals to sell them for meagre profit. My first essdal cost EGP 55  a simple baby blue and white linen essdal, she said.

Today, these simple essdals cost EGP 250, at least. Their prices kept going up, especially after the floatation of the pound in November 2016.

Maha El-Ezaby, a founding volunteer at Al-Zahraa Charity Association, said that essdal prices went up at least 10 times since her charity started to make them in the early 1990s.

But the price of the material has been increasing significantly, she said. Moreover, she added, it is essential for the charity to secure a reasonable profit margin that goes partially to the women who make the essdals to have a stable income.

Our purpose is to help women who provide for their families; and with the increasing demand on essdals we have been expanding steadily, El-Ezaby said.

The run-up to the holy month of Ramadan is ultimately a high season for the essdals market in Cairo. According to El-Ezaby, even women who are veiled like to have a special essdal to wear for the extended evening prayers of Ramadan (Taraweeh).

This was not exactly in fashion in the 1990s, but it certainly became fashionable in the early 2000s, El-Ezaby explained. Consequently, she added, charities that make essdals for sale started a new line of production. We make the simple inexpensive essdal that women and girls increasingly like to wear at home, especially in Ramadan, and we make another line for the more upscale essdals that women wear at mosques, she said.

Every year, before the advent of Ramadan and ahead of Eid El-Fitr or Eid El-Adha, many charities organise an open day to sell essdals.

According to El-Ezaby, this is one of the most successful activities of the majority of charities. However, she added, since 2016, production has decreased given the declining shopping capacity of the larger part of the middle class.

There is still demand, for sure, especially this year as people have returned to pray at mosques after a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, but the question is about prices, she said.

The question of prices is certainly key to the business of Lina and Fadwa Mawhab, who started a small business in 2010 to sell upscale prayer outfits, including essdals.

The idea was to take the essdal to a place of elegance and flair, because I thought there was no reason at all why a woman should be wearing a dull outfit to perform prayers, either in Ramadan or Eid, Lina said.

As it turned out, there was a big market for Lina's production. Many women were waiting for this, because they think that Ramadan and Eid are occasions to dress up for, she said.

The success of the colourful and elegantly tailored silk essdals of Lina and Fadwa prompted veiled women to enquire about the possibility of having some dresses made by the same workshops. Again, the two sisters thought it was worth it.

In Egypt it has always been a challenge to make nice outfits for veiled women that are both compatible with the Islamic traditions of a proper dress code and pleasant at the same time, Lina said.

She added that she has always found it unfair for veiled women to be forced to work around the average casual skirts, trousers, shirts, and dresses to create a reasonable outfit that meets their requirements. With oversize outfits becoming more and more in fashion, Lina said, she decided to go ahead and produce a few items.

Once the collection went online, it instantly proved a big success. It was not just veiled women who put in their orders, but women who are not veiled also got interested; I think the oversize outfits are appealing to students, working women, and others, she said.

According to Lina, there is room for oversize casual wear to double as outfits for veiled women.

The fact that Lina and Fadwas outfits are custom-made allows for adjustments of length and design to match the measures and preferences of the orders. This flexibility allows adjusting some simple, loose dresses by adding a cap to become essdals or change the material for the outfit to turn into a beach dress, Lina said.

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N o one much likes a swot  a financially successful, privately educated one, who is the Prime Minister at that  telling us that we all need to get better at maths. The ferocity of the whataboutery outburst ran along familiar lines after the PM delivered a speech on one of his personal preoccupations.

It means destroying the myth thats its clever to be hopeless at maths. The urgent priority is to improve the teaching of maths in our schools.

This was, however, the prime minister in 1999  one Tony Blair, fretting that a poor grasp of maths from childhood onwards was robbing so many people of life chances and income.

In essence, Rishi Sunak said the same thing in an era where basic maths and the IT knowledge which springs from it is even more of an entry card to many jobs. Meanwhile the economy is shorter than ever of numerate workers (or those who have the basic skills to learn more in an age of burgeoning AI and its many applications.) Not having a decent level of maths is a far greater risk than overdosing on it.

The other reason it is unfair to bash Sunak for raising the subject is that many other countries  including the best European performers, Estonia, Finland and Poland  also worry about how to keep up their numeracy smarts. It is not merely some bizarre idea Sunak picked up as a hedgefunder. One of the main reasons some countries do better by their next generations in maths than their parents is that they lose a fear of it and engineer their school systems and incentives to ensure that more children persist with it.

Somehow, this is not a message we want to hear. Sunak, critics say, wants to make us learn maths, which is a bit like saying literacy programmes make us read and write. The word which bothers us most is compulsory. But one impact of offering some form of maths up to the age of 18 is that more pupils would be able to reach a good level of competency at their own pace.

Very few developed countries have a system which drops maths summarily at the age of 16. And the facts stack up hard against complacency. If eight million adults have maths skills beneath the benchmark for a child of nine they will lose out on employment chances and economic advancement.

Many people reading this will say they hated maths, gave it up early and it did them no harm. But they are often those who have strong compensatory skills in other areas.

And while it is fine to be a maths-averse humanities graduate, it is less fine to enter the workplace that expects you to be comfortable with basic computing, spreadsheets and data points  or deal with your own interest-rate calculations, tax bands and probability calculations  without being comfortable with numbers.

Sunaks speech yesterday had the flaws of a technocrats zeal  it needed to address more empathetically why people fear maths and why that can be remedied. The core message landed badly and a slew of critics (or experts, as a hostile BBC website article suggestively put it) decreed it to be a meaningless plan without more maths teachers. That is true, but not a reason to dismiss the thrust of the argument.

Maths and computing are also subjects that are naturally aligned with the potential of ed tech (a sector in which London is, incidentally, rich in talent and investment). It does not mean that teachers become defunct.

But it does allow for more inventive solutions to scaling how maths and IT are taught most effectively  and personalising learning to help us learn more fluently.

And while Sunak himself concedes that the recruitment and retention of teachers needs much more attention, we cant address the practicalities of closing the gap until we have decided whether this is a mission-critical improvement or not.

Because we undervalue maths teachers and innovation around how we teach and learn maths, we fail to make it an attractive destination for the next generation of professionals. Then we complain when theyre not around  and blame whichever hapless leader has the nerve to state the obvious and the circle starts again.

But the maths needs to add up. And more than 20 years is a long time to get that homework done. Sunak might be a nerd. But sometimes, the nerd gets it right.

Anne McElvoy is Executive Editor at Politico
Review at a glance









T his is one of those exhibitions where you can feel the tectonic plates of art history shifting. A generation ago, it would have been almost unthinkable. But a steady spate of shows of the Swedish painter Hilma af Klint in Europe, and then a record-breaking blockbuster at the Guggenheim in New York in 2019, have propelled her into the realms of the best-known artists.

And while Mondrian remains a canonic, towering figure in the modernist avant garde  one of the most famous artistic brands on earth, as Frances Morris, Tate Moderns director, puts it  perhaps his popular ubiquity, which saw his squares and rectangles in primary colours and black lines appear on everything from Yves Saint Laurent dresses to lOreal hair products, is arguably waning. Which of them, now, is the biggest draw for an audience?

The two artists were born within 10 years of each other  Af Klint in Stockholm in 1862 and Mondrian in Amersfoort in the Netherlands in 1872  yet never knew each other. But the exhibition reveals their commonalities: we see their early interests in nature and landscape painting, which formed the basis of deep engagements with mystical belief systems, including their shared profound interest in the esoteric Theosophy movement and the thinking of the Anthroposophist Rudolf Steiner, as well as with emerging scientific theories.

What resulted from this complex network of thought and reference were distinctive artistic languages that are called abstract  put simply, Mondrian took the grid as his base, Af Klint took the spiral.

Hilma af Klint, The Evolution, The WUS Seven-Pointed Star Series, Group VI, No.15, 1908 / Hilma af Klint Foundation

In discussing this show, some have questioned why we need to pitch together a woman artist who has only recently emerged from unwarranted obscurity with a much-vaunted, canonic male painter. But this show feels like the curators are pulling Mondrian out of the modernist comfort zone and into Af Klints esoteric territory, rather than the other way round.

Morris uses a nice phrase to describe what exhibitions of historic artists can do in bridging the gap between our time and theirs: a form of rewilding of the monoculture of art history. And Mondrian is being rewilded here, for sure. His mystical interests and abstraction from nature are much explored, but they have rarely been so front and centre.

Morris and her curatorial colleagues have been careful to avoid too close a compare-and-contrast strategy. The two artists are rarely next to each other on the wall, even if they appear in the same rooms. Its a judicious call, because even in the earliest of the works, where they respond to the landscape, its clear that their languages are hugely distinct, with Mondrian clearly finding geometries that lead inexorably to the grids. In the botanical and floral studies by both artists gathered in a room that is a rather wonderful surprise, the distinctions are writ large, with Mondrian taking a looser, painterly approach, where Af Klint is subtly poetic, but more empirical and diagrammatic.

Piet Mondrian, Red Amaryllis with blue background, 19091910 / Private Collection

Once were beyond the artists interest in flora, we see in a room called Evolution the first examples of Af Klints Paintings for the Temple, which eventually grew to encompass 193 works across multiple series. She believed the works were commissioned by her spiritual guide Amaliel and they reflect her aim to evoke a spiritual transcendence for humanity, through a coded language of symbol and text  from dogs and snails to crosses. Opposite Af Klints paintings from 1908 is Mondrians own Evolution (1911) a painting that is the closest he came to a similarly spiritual and symbolic representational language  which he quickly rejected.

From that point on, the split in their languages of form, for all their shared concerns, grows more apparent. While Mondrian seeks to explore the invisible laws of nature and the cosmos, he does so ultimately through an art devoid of representation, where the natural world is within the artist and expressed in compositions in which apparent oppositions are brought into complete harmony. You chart his progress from emblematic representations of trees through to the classic geometric paintings, which are gathered in a spectacular room towards the end of the show.

But with Af Klint, the diagram  a representation structure, ultimately  never leaves the work, even at its most reductive. You see this most obviously in her Tree of Knowledge watercolours, but it is there, too, in her paintings describing world religions in symbolic form, and in the Ten Largest, the grandest of the Paintings for the Temple, which end the show. Clearly, there are botanical forms present here, as well as those same snails. I question whether Af Klints works are ever truly abstract.

Hilma af Klint, The Ten Largest, Group IV, No. 3, Youth, 1907 / Courtesy of The Hilma af Klint Foundation

And here I have to confess that while I admire her commitment to her vision and the extraordinary work ethic that led to the creation of such a vast body of work, I struggle with the actual paintings. Formally, I find the paint so inert on her brush, and for all the richness of reference thats so compellingly and comprehensively detailed in a room here called The Ether, I remain unmoved by her spiritual questionings and lexicon of forms. Still, this is a fascinating, ambitious and memorable show.

Tate Modern, to September 3; tate.org.uk
C ryptocurrencies, a digital-only form of financial exchange that uses cryptography as a means of security, made their debut more than 10 years ago with the launch of Bitcoin.

They divide opinion and arent for everyone. For example, the UKs financial watchdog, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), issues regular warnings to consumers about the crypto industry, telling would-be investors that cryptoassets are unregulated, high-risk entities that offer little in the way of financial protection to consumers if things go wrong.

The regulator is at pains to add that people should be prepared to lose all their money if they decide to invest in cryptocurrencies.Last year, the cryptocurrency exchange, FTX, collapsed and its founder was arrested. The ensuing scandal has accelerated the call for more regulation in the sector.

Despite events like these and warnings from regulators, more than two million adults hold cryptoassets in the UK - on average, a holding of a few hundred pounds per person.

If youre new to the world of crypto, understand the potential risk of loss, but still want to get involved, it can be tricky working out how to buy Bitcoin, Ethereum or any of the thousands of other cryptocurrencies that now exist.

Follow these steps to help get started.

1. Choose a broker or a crypto exchange

In the same way youd visit a bureau de change to swap pounds sterling for euros, if you want to buy cryptocurrencies you first need to choose either a broker or a crypto exchange.

Both enable you to buy crypto, but differences exist with each option:

Invest with a crypto brand trusted by millions Buy and sell 70+ cryptoassets on a secure, easy-to-use platform Own Crypto

Cryptoassets are highly volatile and unregulated in the UK. No consumer protection. Tax on profits may apply.

What is a cryptocurrency exchange?

This is an online platform where buyers and sellers meet to trade cryptocurrencies, paying fees to the exchange for facilitating the process.

They often feature more complex interfaces enabling various types of trade and also offer tools such as advanced performance charts.

Well-known cryptocurrency exchanges include Coinbase, Binance and eToro.

If you dont have a background in buying stocks and shares, the standard trading interfaces offered by some cryptocurrency exchanges can be a little overwhelming for beginners. That said, the same providers may also offer more user-friendly, easy-purchase options.

Convenience, however, usually comes at a cost. If you opt for a beginner-friendly version, expect to be charged more for buying crypto compared with using an exchanges standard trading facility.

If youre a UK investor new to crypto, its worth making sure that your preferred exchange or brokerage of choice allows fiat currency transfers and purchases made with sterling. A fiat currency is a government-issued currency, such as sterling or dollars, that is not backed by a physical commodity (such as gold), but backed by the government in question.

This is worth checking because some exchanges only allow customers to buy cryptocurrency using another crypto. This means youd have to find a separate exchange to buy the tokens that your preferred exchange accepts, before you could start trading crypto on the latter.

What is a cryptocurrency broker?

An alternative to exchanges, cryptocurrency brokers remove some of the complexity from buying crypto by offering easy-to-use interfaces that interact with an exchange on your behalf.

Some brokers charge higher fees than exchanges, while others claim to be free, making their money instead in other ways: for example, by selling details to large brokerages about what you and other traders are buying and selling.

Undeniably convenient, its important to understand how the relationship between you and your crypto broker is going to operate. For example, you may come up against restrictions about moving your cryptocurrency holdings away from a particular platform. Check a brokers T&Cs on transfers and what this means for your crypto holdings before signing up.

To newcomers, the issue of where their holdings are held might not sound like a big deal. But advanced crypto investors prefer to hold their coins in so-called cryptocurrency wallets for extra security. A crypto wallet is an app that allows users to store and retrieve their digital assets.

Some investors choose hardware crypto wallets that are not connected to the internet for even more security.

2. Create and verify your account

Once youve chosen a cryptocurrency broker or exchange, you can sign up to start an account.

Depending on your choice of platform and the amount of crypto youre planning to buy, it may be necessary to verify your identity using official paperwork such as a passport or driving licence. You may also be required to upload a selfie to your account to prove that your appearance matches your documents.

Only once the verification process is complete will you be able to buy and sell cryptocurrencies. If youre champing at the bit to buy crypto, remember to build a day or two in case there are any hiccups with the verification process.

Related: Buy And Sell Cryptocurrency With eToro

3. Deposit cash

You can only start buying crypto once youve got the necessary funds in your cryptocurrency exchange or brokerage account.

You can deposit money into your crypto account by linking it to your current account, or by making a payment with a debit or credit card.

Not all providers allow you to use their credit cards to buy crypto, for example TSB, Virgin Money and Tesco Bank block transactions with crypto exchanges, while the Nationwide curbs purchases. Some providers may allow you to use your card to buy crypto, but beware of any fees they might add to the cost of the transaction.

Depending on the funding method youre using, plus the exchange or broker that youve decided to use, you may have to wait a few days before the money that youve deposited is available with which to buy cryptocurrency.

4. Place a cryptocurrency order

One the moneys in your brokerage or exchange account, then youre in a position to place your first cryptocurrency order.

There are thousands of cryptocurrencies to choose from, including the best-known versions such as Bitcoin and Ethereum. You can learn more here about some of the largest cryptocurrencies by value .

Once youve decided what cryptocurrency to buy, enter the ticker symbol into your account. This is the three or four-letter abbreviation used to identify a particular cryptocurrency - such as BTC for Bitcoin and ETH for Ethereum  and also tap in how many coins youd like to purchase.

Most exchanges and brokers allow customers to buy fractional shares of certain cryptocurrencies. This is a useful option when you remember that a currency like Bitcoin is currently (April 2023) trading around the 24,000 per coin mark (at one stage the figure was in excess of 50,000).

5. Storage

In the same way you might be inclined to keep your cash in a safe, its important to have a secure storage place for your cryptocurrencies.

Note that if youre buying cryptocurrency via a broker, you may have little or no choice about the way your cryptocurrency holding is stored.

The situation is different with cryptocurrency exchanges. Remember that, unlike other parts of the UKs financial marketplace, exchanges are not covered by a financial lifeboat arrangement known as the Financial Services Compensation Scheme.

If you forget or mislay the codes to access your account, you could lose your investment, which is why its important to have a secure storage place. When you buy cryptocurrency through an exchange, these are your options:

Leave your crypto on the exchange . When you buy cryptocurrency, its usually stored in a crypto wallet linked to the exchange. If you arent keen on the wallet provider that your exchange partners with, or you want to move it to a more secure location, you might transfer it from the exchange to a separate hot or cold wallet. Depending on the exchange and the size of your transfer, you may be charged a fee to carry this out.

. When you buy cryptocurrency, its usually stored in a crypto wallet linked to the exchange. If you arent keen on the wallet provider that your exchange partners with, or you want to move it to a more secure location, you might transfer it from the exchange to a separate hot or cold wallet. Depending on the exchange and the size of your transfer, you may be charged a fee to carry this out. Hot wallet . This is a crypto receptacle that is stored online and runs on internet-connected devices such as smartphones and tablets. Hot wallets are convenient but run the higher risk of theft since they remain connected to the web.

. This is a crypto receptacle that is stored online and runs on internet-connected devices such as smartphones and tablets. Hot wallets are convenient but run the higher risk of theft since they remain connected to the web. Cold wallet. In contrast, cold wallets are not connected to the internet, making them a more secure option for holding cryptocurrency. They take the form of external devices such as a USB, or hard drives. Again, its worth bearing in mind that if you lose the key code to a cold wallet, or if the device should fail in some way, you may never be able to retrieve your cryptocurrency.

Buying into cryptocurrency  other options

Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are popular investment vehicles that provide retail investors with diversification while enabling them to buy hundreds of holdings (such as a basket of shares or cryptocurrencies) in one fell swoop.

Despite making their debut elsewhere last year, notably in countries such as the US, Canada and Brazil, crypto-based ETFs have not, as yet, received the green light in the UK.

One way to gain exposure to the crypto market, via companies with tangible products or services that are subject to regulatory oversight, is to consider buying shares in companies that use or own cryptocurrencies and the blockchain that powers them.

Youll need an online investment account to buy shares in publicly-listed companies including US corporations such as:

Nvidia . A technology company that designs and sells graphics processing units that are at the heart of systems used to mine cryptocurrency.

. A technology company that designs and sells graphics processing units that are at the heart of systems used to mine cryptocurrency. PayPal . The online payments platform has expanded to allow customers to buy and sell certain cryptocurrencies with their PayPal accounts.

. The online payments platform has expanded to allow customers to buy and sell certain cryptocurrencies with their PayPal accounts. Square. Last year, the payment services provider for small businesses disclosed that Bitcoin holdings accounted for about 5% of the cash on its balance sheet. Squares Cash App also allows people to buy, sell and store cryptocurrency.

As with any market-based investment, its important to work out your investment goals and to review your current financial situation before gaining exposure to companies with a connection to cryptocurrency.

Cryptocurrencies can be very volatile and, as a speculative investment, you should invest with caution.

Invest with a crypto brand trusted by millions Buy and sell 70+ cryptoassets on a secure, easy-to-use platform Own Crypto

Cryptoassets are highly volatile and unregulated in the UK. No consumer protection. Tax on profits may apply.

Frequently asked questions

Q. Where can I buy cryptocurrency for beginners?

A. Beginners should look for a crypto exchange with a simple interface for making trades and plenty of educational content. Most well known exchanges, including the likes of Coinbase, Gemini and eToro, tick these boxes. However, they arent always the cheapest in terms of fees, so youll need to determine whats most important to you.

Q. How do beginners buy bitcoins?

A. The same way anyone buys bitcoins. This is through a crypto exhange, using the five steps outlined above. If you need help with the first stage (choosing an exchange) this guide to the best crypto exchanges might help.

Q. Can I directly buy crypto?

A. Yes, most cryptocurrencies have websites through which you can buy cryptocurrencies. Bitcoin.org, for example, allows visitors to buy bitcoin direct from the site.

In most cases, however, the provider wont give you a crypto wallet in which to store your public and private keys - and youll need to store these securely in order to make trades. Crypto exchanges on the other hand usually offer free wallets alongside trading facilities.

Q. How much does it cost to buy a cryptocurrency?

A. You can spend as much or as little as you like on cryptocurrency, though some crypto exchanges set a minimum deposit amount before you can set trading. So, while its possible buy a single token for tenth of a penny, in reality you might have to spend 10 to fund your account before doing so.

Q. How much crypto should I buy as a beginner?

A. Its important to understand that crypto is highly volatile and unpredictable. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has repeatedly warned that anyone thinking about investing in cryptocurrency to be prepared to lose all the money they spend.

Experts have advised a figure thats equal to a certain percentage of your liquid assets. But the truth is you shouldnt invest a penny more than you could realistically afford to lose, understanding that your investment is just as likely (if not more likely) to go down in value as it is to go up.
I t might have started out as a joke, but with a market capitalisation of 10.4 billion, Dogecoin (DOGE) is a serious player in the crypto space.

The token was established in 2013 as a parody of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. Its mascot  a Shiba Inu dog  was borrowed from a popular meme at the time.

Like many cryptocurrencies, DOGE had a rough year in 2022 but it appears to have stabilised and now trades at 7p.

If youre thinking about investing in the memecoin, heres how to buy Dogecoin.

Disclaimer: investing in cryptocurrencies is speculative and your entire capital is at risk. Cryptocurrencies are given to volatile price swings. The UKs financial watchdog, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), issues regular warnings about the crypto industry.

The FCA reminds would-be traders that crypto assets are unregulated and high-risk. It says this means people are very unlikely to have any protection if things go wrong, so people should be prepared to lose all their money if they choose to invest in them.

Invest with a crypto brand trusted by millions Buy and sell 70+ cryptoassets on a secure, easy-to-use platform Own Crypto

Cryptoassets are highly volatile and unregulated in the UK. No consumer protection. Tax on profits may apply.

Step 1. Choose a crypto exchange

A crypto exchange is a website or an app where buyers and sellers can trade cryptocurrencies.

There are many exchanges to choose from, each with different fees and features. Weve compiled our pick of the best here to help you make a choice.

You should consider payment methods, the number of tokens available to trade, what fees are charged and security.

Step 2. Choose a payment method

Most exchanges let you add funds to your account from your debit card, bank account, payment providers like PayPal or in some cases, credit cards.Transaction fees may apply, and your payment method may have a bearing on the amount youll pay.

Credit card payments will be treated as cash advances by lenders, which are subject to a higher rate of interest than a normal purchase. It is generally a bad idea to use credit to purchase cryptocurrency.

Step 3. Buy your DOGE

Within your chosen exchanges website or app, find the DOGE page and enter the amount you want to invest.

Step 4. Select secure storage

Cryptocurrencies like DOGE arent covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS). As such you wouldnt be entitled to compensation if your DOGE were stolen, your exchange went bust or you lost access to your account.

Most exchanges offer a free crypto wallet in which to store your private and public keys. These keys are necessary to make trades using your DOGE. Online wallets are known as hot wallets. Hot wallets are convenient but also more exposed to hackers.

Cold wallets, on the other hand, are external hardware storage devices that resemble thumb drives. Theyre more secure since theyre disconnected from the web until you connect them to a networked computer. But, if you were to lose your own access codes, you may never be able to access your assets again.

In either case, you may be charged a fee by your exchange for withdrawing your DOGE to an external wallet.

Invest with a crypto brand trusted by millions Buy and sell 70+ cryptoassets on a secure, easy-to-use platform Own Crypto

Cryptoassets are highly volatile and unregulated in the UK. No consumer protection. Tax on profits may apply.

Alternative ways to invest in DOGE

Buying shares in a company that uses or owns cryptocurrencies and the blockchain technology that powers them is a different way to invest in cryptocurrency. If the company is regulated, you may feel this is a more secure investment.

Nvidia (NVDA), for example, manufactures graphics processing units used by cryptocurrency miners. Paypal (PYPL), meanwhile, allows users to buy and sell select cryptocurrencies.

Note: Nvidia and Paypal are used for illustrative purposes and are not share recommendations. Investing in publicly traded companies is no guarantee that youll make money or even recoup your investment. Youll require an online investing platform or trading app to get started.
L ondons rogue landlords have been fined a record 8.6 million over the past three months, according to a new report.

As landlord licensing schemes spread across London local councils are increasingly taking action against those who persist in renting cold, dirty, damp, and unsafe properties to desperate tenants.

Other fines have been issued by the Property Ombudsman against letting and estate agents, according to property technology company Kamma which carried out the research.

In one of the most recent cases a landlord illegally rented a squalid and dirty apartment, hidden within the side extension of a home in Isleworth. Last month Shashibhushan Vyas was fined 115,000 for the illegal conversion, after his side hustle was discovered by Hounslow Council officers after a neighbour reported him.

Meanwhile, a landlord in Barking has been ordered to pay fines and costs totalling more than 8,000 for renting rooms in a damp shared house with no fire doors, exposed electrical wiring, and plagued with rats and cockroaches. Kalpesh Kapasiwala, of Chigwell, was prosecuted in March after failing to respond to requests to upgrade the house from Barking & Dagenham Council.

And in Brent a landlord was fined 165,000 in March for squeezing 18 people  including seven children  into a single house.

Its welcome that local authorities are getting more proactive but its a drop in the ocean compared to the scale of the problem, said Anya Martin, director of PricedOut, which campaigns for affordable housing.

Londons rental market is a wild west and lawbreaking is routine. Tenants are fearful of reporting because without protection from eviction, any complaints can quickly end up in you losing your home. Many decide it is safer just to tolerate bad behaviour.

The solution to the problem, said Martin, is to build more homes and increase supply of rental homes so landlords can no longer abuse their position.

A spokesperson for the National Residential Landlords Association also welcomed the news  but said more could be done. Our research shows that most councils across London are not making best use of the wide range of powers they already have.

At present too few local authorities have the funds, or the staff, to take robust action against those landlords who should have no place in the rental market.

Action

To report a rogue landlord you can complain to your local council, or enlist the support of the GLA here.

Private letting and managing agents must be members of a government-approved redress scheme: The Property Ombudsman or The Property Redress Scheme.

To complain about the conduct of one of its members contact The Property Ombudsman or contact the Property Redress Scheme here.
Anger was expressed, said President Macron in a 13-minute, pre-recorded address to the nation which aired on French television channels last night. An understatement, given the levels of unrest which have swept across France in the past four months. As the President pushed through the retirement reform which will see a rise in the countrys retirement age to 64, violent clashes left demonstrators and riot police alike injured, while the French capital became a cesspit, thanks to four weeks of strikes by binmen (the detritus providing ammunition to rioters who set hundreds of bins alight). If his critics are to be believed, it all comes as a sure sign that the President has lost touch with the people.

Of greater concern, perhaps, is that while Macrons popularity has fallen to its lowest levels since the Gilets Jaunes insurrection in 2018-19 (he is now enjoying only 28 per cent favourable opinions), support for his nemesis Marine Le Pen is shooting up. And on the international stage, his recent comments have also caused outrage among Western allies.

Violent clashes left demonstrators and riot police alike injured, while the French capital became a cesspit, thanks to four weeks of strikes by binmen

Last nights speech was an attempt to move the national conversation forward  it was his way of telling the 62 per cent of French people who said in a recent poll that they supported further protests and strike action against the law that the time had come to turn the page on this chapter.

Many, however, dont agree. The eight federations of trade unions that have been united on the subject and mobilising hundreds of thousands of demonstrators every fortnight or so in the streets of France since January, are still up in arms. After his speech last night Laurent Berger, head of the CFDT union, said on BFM TV: I didnt hear anything concrete that would calm the anger that workers feel.

AP

Indeed, trade unions continue to call for a show of force and unity during the traditional Labour Day marches while the radical Left is hoping the same constitutional court will give the greenlight to their latest project of a referendum. If the nine members of the Conseil Constitutionnel, also known as Les Sages (The Wise), validated a referendum, it would set in motion a long period of uncertainty.

Fifteen months during which the law would be implemented and yet might be killed by a popular vote in June next year. The stuff of nightmares for any government.

As for the Far-Right, Le Pen has found the most opportunistic and cynical response to the current impasse: We will abide by the constitutional councils verdict as we do respect our institutions. However, if the French want to get rid of the law, they know what to do in four years time. In other words, vote for Le Pen in 2027 and she will repeal the pension reform. She even promised to lower the retirement age from 64 to 60. This is of course textbook populism but of a kind that might entice French voters to choose Le Pen at the next presidential election. Ever since her father Jean-Marie went through to the second round of the presidential elections in 2002, provoking a national shock, France has lived in dread of such alternatives. Macron beat Marine Le Pen twice in the presidential race in 2017 and 2022 but each time with a narrower margin. Anything which gives Le Pen an edge would bring panic not only in France but in Europe at large.

AFP via Getty Images

As for the French government led by Elisabeth Borne, Frances Prime Minister who failed to explain the pension reform to the Parliament and failed to gather a majority around her, many observers think that it wont survive the summer. The president gave his prime minister a clear mission: to find a workable majority at the National Assembly to break the current deadlock and build a large consensus on future laws. In theory, it shouldnt be hard as Macrons next labour bills all have a social hue. He wants, for instance, to encourage companies to hire workers in their 50s and 60s; he is also in favour of increasing low wages to address poverty at work. The other important bill is the legislation authorising assisted dying, something the far-Left have long campaigned for and which a majority of the French now support.

However, theory and reason are not always prevailing in France. And the weakness of the prime minister is not helping. Many think her days, and those of her government, are numbered. Indeed a change of government could be a way of resetting Macrons mandate, and turning the page.

AP

As for the French government led by Elisabeth Borne, Frances Prime Minister who failed to explain the pension reform to the Parliament and failed to gather a majority around her, many observers think that it wont survive the summer

One thing is clear, though  whether he manages to bounce back at home or not, the French president will not stop speaking his mind on the international stage even if this means irritating neighbours and partners. And it is perhaps the one thing the French dont mind about him.

Frances foreign policy established by General Charles de Gaulle after the war, on the principles of independence of mind and action, is very much still guiding French presidents thinking. In this context, Macrons sallies during his state visits in China and in The Netherlands last week, saying Europe should not be a blind follower of the US agenda or get involved in crises that are not ours, are not so surprising. Abroad, though, they provoked quiet fury. Macron: too clever for his own good, Are you not entertained? Macron comments spark global backlash  again, Macron China trip worsens the split in the West, went some of the headlines in the British press after the French president commented on the need to be independent of both the US and China.

REUTERS

He cant help it, he enjoys thought-provoking statements. His hope is probably to stir debate and get things moving. Call it intellectual gymnastics. However, Macrons own team admits to outsiders that it is sometimes difficult to convey the Presidents pensee complexe through an interview that will be condensed in sound bite, then translated, mistranslated and often misunderstood. Perhaps Macron should know by now that miscommunication of this kind is not a risk worth taking.

The only problem with Macron is that his peche mignon (sweet sin) as we call it in French, is precisely to take risks. Combined with his boundless energy, it makes for a real political dynamo, but one that may distress some of his compatriots who feel left behind.

So far though, Macron has stayed the course. His approval rating has tanked? Never mind, this is a risk worth taking to redress Frances public finances. Many French people are deeply unhappy? Fine, we will find a new project and bounce back together. His raw energy can only be admired but how long can he operate in this fashion?

In a country where political passion often has the upper hand, Frances president will need to find a new trick, or perhaps a new attitude, to appease and convince his compatriots. And fast.
A suspected burglar was arrested after thermal cameras quickly saw through his bungling attempt to camouflage himself as a solar panel.

The hapless suspect was quickly caught by a National Police Air Service (NPAS) helicopters thermal imaging camera lying completely still on a solar panel atop of a row of shops in Upper Tooting Road, Wandsworth on April 14.

NPAS tweeted an infra-red image of the bungled getaway attempt, adding: Another burglary suspect located by us attempting to hide on a roof in @MPSWandsworth.

** Friendly advice for any burglars that use Twitter ** Pretending to be solar panel on a roof will not fool us or our camera!!, youre welcome!

Mocking the suspect, the social team added: Theyll never find me if I just lay here and pretend Im a solar panel! Wrong!!

Police arrest suspect after failed attempt at solar panel disguise / @NPASLondon

A NPAS spokeswoman said: Our London helicopter crew was deployed at 0149hrs to assist Metropolitan Police officers in the search for a burglary suspect in the Upper Tooting Road area of London.

The male suspect was quickly located on the roof of a building.

His location was relayed to officers on the ground, who detained the suspect.

Total flying time was 13 minutes.

It came as police in the West Midlands issued a warning after 100,000 worth of solar panels were reported stolen from solar farms.

Follow @NPASLondon on Twitter for more pictures.

Scotland Yard has been approached for further comment.
A police watchdog has asked the Met why it took an officer more than five hours to disclose they Tasered a man who fell several storeys to his death from a balcony.

The male was threatening to jump from a block of flats in Peckham, south London just before 1.30am on Wednesday, April 12.

For more than an hour, officers attempted to persuade him to come inside.

He was then Tasered and fell to the ground below suffering serious injuries, the Independent Office for Police Conduct said. He later died in hospital.

It wasnt until some five or six hours later during a routine post-incident procedure following a death or serious injury that the officer admitted they discharged the stun gun.

IOPC investigators have told the Metropolitan Police this was unhelpful and are seeking answers.

No further details have been released of the mans age or ethnicity, although one report suggests he is believed to be black. Body-worn video cameras are being studied.

Detective Chief Superintendent Seb Adjei-Addoh, in charge of policing for Lambeth and Southwark, said: I know the community will be concerned about this tragic death and I share their concern.

All police officers know that their actions will be scrutinised in situations such as these, and the Met is fully supporting the independent investigation by the IOPC.

Metropolitan Police headquarters, New Scotland Yard (Metropolitan Police/PA) / PA Media

Enquiries are underway to identify the mans next of kin. Formal identification and a post-mortem examination will be arranged in due course, the Met said.

An IOPC spokesperson said: We have begun an independent investigation into an incident involving Metropolitan Police Service officers on Wednesday, April 12 in south east London, where a man was seriously injured and later died in hospital after falling from a balcony.

We were advised that MPS officers attended an address in Peckham at around 2am following a report of a man threatening to jump from a balcony on a residential building.

We have established that officers were present for over an hour and attempted to persuade the man to come inside from the balcony. The man has then been Tasered while on the balcony and he has fallen several floors to the ground.

The man was transported to hospital with life-threatening injuries and died later the same day.

We received a mandatory referral from the force and declared an independent investigation the next day. Our investigation is in its initial stages and we have secured officers body worn footage as we begin gathering evidence.

Scotland Yard said it was unable to comment on the delay in the officer reporting the Taser use.
A motorist has been accused by police of driving while inhaling so-called hippy crack nitrous oxide, a court heard.

Tawfiqul Alom, 28, was spotted with a balloon to his mouth and had gas canisters in the boot when he was driving suspiously slowly through a roundabout in Gants Hill in Ilford, it is said.

The driver has been charged by the Metropolitan Police with driving without due care and attention in the late-night incident, as well as driving with a faulty tyre and having defective rear lights.

The driver was driving slowly and incompetently around a roundabout due to inhaling nitrous oxide, PC Billy Briley told Willesden magistrates court.

The officer said Aloms Ford Focus was travelling at a speed I estimate of less than 10mph, causing him to pull alongside and look through the window.

I could see a lone Asian male driver in his late 20s wearing glasses, holding a yellow balloon in his right hand up to his mouth, said PC Briley.

He had the balloon in his mouth and was inhaling from it.

This is a common way to consume nitrous oxide  also known as laughing gas  as a legal high.

This produces a rush of dizziness and euphoria. Nitrous oxide is commonly used as an anaesthetic and can affect the users co-ordination and awareness.

Nitrous oxide is currently a legal high, but the government has announced plans to criminalise possession as a class C drug.

PC Briley alleged Alom had balloons on the passenger seat and three nitrous oxide canisters in the boot when he was pulled over on July 25 last year, at 2.50am.

Tawfiqul Aloms case was heard at Willesden magistrates court / PA

But he said Alom replied: I wasnt doing a balloon, wheres the evidence? Show me the evidence, youre just making stuff up.

Alom was charged through the Single Justice Procedure, and his case has now been set down for a trial at Ealing magistrates court on June 22.

He has pleaded guilty to two charges of driving with a faulty tyre and also driving with faulty rear lights, and faces penalty points on his licence as well as a fine for those offences.

A court official said no plea has been recorded for the allegation of driving without due care and attention against Alom.

Announcing the proposed criminalisation of nitrous oxide, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak saying there is a clear link between the use of nitrous oxide and antisocial behaviour.

In a separate Metropolitan Police prosecution, Dwayne Buckson, 33, was accused of weaving across the road while inhaling nitrous oxide at the wheel of a Toyota Yaris.

A police officer suggested he had almost hit a parked car while huffing on nitrous oxide  referring to it in official statements by its slang name noz.

Sergeant Robert Pike put forward a statement claiming Mr Buckson was out of it, face slackened, and barely responsive when he was pulled over in Euston at 5am last July.

Inside the car was a crate containing large NOZ canisters and he had hundreds of red balloons on him, the officer added.

However when the case came to court last week, the prosecution was abandoned and Buckson, from Stevenage, was found not guilty of driving without due care and attention.
P olice investigating a sexual assault on aCentral Line Tube train have released an image of a man they want to trace.

The attacker sat next to his victim and sexually assaulting him at just before 8pm on February 20.

The victim got off the Tube at Leytonstone Underground station and sat on a bench on the platform.

A short time later his attacker approached him again and said, do you want to play, British Transport Police said in the appeal.

Officers believe the man in the CCTV image may have information that could help with their investigation.

Anyone who recognises him is asked to contact British Transport Police by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40 quoting reference 621 of 20 February.

To remain anonymous contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Ahram Online gives ideas on where to go shopping for everyone's favourite, the Ramadan sweet cake kahk

Mandarine Koueider

It is going to be a very long wait for you if you are planning to buy your kahk (traditional Ramadan sweet cakes) from Mandarine Koueider. But it once the kahk is served with a nice big pot of tea, you would know that it was a worthwhile exercise in patience, especially if you are shopping at the patisserie on Baghdad Street in Heliopolis.

And if you absolutely want to make the best out of the wait then you may wish to give priority in your shopping to the kahk filled with date paste, because they make it like no one else does.

The range of kahk prices is from LE70 to LE100. And you can buy an independent tin box to arrange your selection carefully and make sure that it is kept well to serve to your guests.

La Poire

You can never go wrong with La Poire when it comes to kahk and petit four. But it is especially the ghouraiybah that La Poire is certain to impress you with; it is tiny enough, rich enough and smells so nice that you may get way overboard.

But dont worry about getting tummy burn  not with the ghouraiybah of La Poire .

A kilo of ghouraiyba from La Poire is around LE100. And if you are looking for a wider selection than you may confidently opt for one of the readily packed tin box selections. The colours of the tin boxes is so beautiful they are bound to catch your eyes, coming with around 1.5 kilogrammes of assorted kahk, ghouraiybah and petit four.

Bisco Misr

It might not be the tiniest, super tasty kahk that you could ever buy, but it is certainly so fresh that is easy to buy, even from a Bisco Misr booth in large supermarkets.

But this is not the first thing that a typical kahk connoisseur would think of when it comes to the Bisco Misr tightly packed carton box, each weighing one kilo and each with a distinct color for each type: red for plain; yellow for kahk filled with agamiya (a honey-based paste); blue for kahk filled with lokoum; light brown for kahk filled with walnuts; green for kahk with pistachio filling; and dark brown for kahk with date filling.

The plus that Bisco Misr offers to its kahk addicts is that the box is not sold with the powder sugar readily spread. The powder sugar comes in separate sachets  two to each box  to allow atypical kahk lovers who dread the powder sugar to enjoy the freshly baked items.

The Bisco Misr ghouraiyba is average and Bisco Misr cookies are below average.

What is really well above average is the selection of biscuits Bisco Misr has been offering for years: plain, orange flavoured, and with coco.

And of course the unmistakable plus of Bisco Misr is that it remains largely affordable, with the box of plain kahk  one of the best at less than LE60.

Bisco Misr is also offering a tin box of assorted kahk, ghouraiyba and biscuits, weighing two kilos.

El-Abd

Also available at big supermarkets in carton boxes, each weighing a kilo, is the kahk of El-Abd, one of the oldest traditional Egyptian sweets patisseries.

El-Abd is also selling its products from booths in several big shopping malls. Kahk El-Abd is also sold with the powder sugar on the side, in sachets.

The kahk with walnut filling and the orange-flavoured biscuits are perhaps among the top 10 of El-Abd. They are sold at around LE70 and LE45 per kilo.

Les Dames

If you are going to put up with the long wait at any of Les Dames' bakeries-patisseries then you cannot be missing out on their petit four, especially the ones with chocolate recipes.

After all, this is how Les Dames established its name when it first opened 30 years ago. The variety of sable at Les Dames is always so inviting, with a kilo ranging around LE80, depending on the exact choice you are making.

At almost half the price, if you are not a keen for petit four, the biscuits of Les Dames are almost exactly as good, at less than LE50 per kilo. The variety of kahk and ghouraiybah ranges from LE80 to LE100.

Simonds

Looking for the best-baked kahk in town? Your destination is Simonds. The recipe might be ordinary, but the baking is certainly perfect, and for a true kahk addict, the bake counts for a lot.

The nice tin boxes of Simonds (you may not easily find the glorious red tin box that you have been buying for years) are a plus because they are made exactly in the right proportions to keep these perfectly baked delights in the right shape and texture for a few weeks.

For around LE200 you can get a two-kilo tin box filled with a variety of kahk, ghouraiybah and petit four. There is also the larger size of the five-kilo box, for around double the price.

Of course you dont have to go for the ready-to-sell assortis; the assistants at Simonds stores are exceptionally fast and clever in helping you to arrange your own box.

Tseppas

Missing the diverse variety of kahk, biscuits, ghouraiybah and petit four, then you need to do your shopping at Tseppas. And they are actually probably using the same recipe your grandmother used, or even your mothers grandmother, given that they have been in town since 1912.

Tseppas is not selling by kilo, but per "packet": a tiny plastic container that accommodates around 200 grams of each item.

The plastic containers are very neatly placed on top of one another in the reliable carton boxes of Tseppas. A two-kilo assortment could be around LE300.

You may wish to give the largest portion of your selection to the incredibly good biscuits Tseppas produces, whose smell alone is as good as their taste.

Tortina

They are sold in small  really small, as in less than 250 gram portions  colourful boxes that are already packed for you pick up or by kilo in elegant black boxes with the brand marked in pink.

And you can buy them in a variety of traditional recipes  kahk with agamiya (honey-based paste) and ghouraiybah with pistachios, or in the ultra-modern variety: plain kahk topped with chocolate spread or red velvet icing.

Whichever way you go, you will find the kahk fresh, nicely packed, and never heavy. If you are not keen on the large cookies festivity and you just want to observe the tradition, then you can simply go pick up two of the small boxes of biscuits  plain or with nuts  for a little over LE50.

This would be good to serve with tea for visits of the first day of the feast.

Sedra

It is perhaps at the patisserie of Sedra where one would find the largest selection of petit four and biscuits, both in traditional recipes and in innovative mixes.

The most fashionable items of the small confectionery are the ones with berry jams, and yes, of course, red velvet icing.

A kilo of the luxe variety of Sedras petit fours comes in at a little over LE100.

Alain le Notre

It comes across as a place where you would eat a nice croissant with a cafe latte, but Alain le Notre manages to always customise French patisserie techniques to fit the Egyptian taste for feast delights.

It might be the ability to harness the mix of butter and flour that is cross-cuisine, especially when it comes to the baking of petit four and the like.

The selection of Alain le Notre for petit four, ghouraiybah and kahk is not very wide, unlike other patisseries, but it is really good. Of the three, it is the ghouraiybah that rates first, with petit four and kahk sharing the second position equally.

Alain le Notre clients get to have a taste of each in an assortment fitted nicely in brown baskets, and a two-kilo basket is available for around LE200.

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E ast Londoners have told of their horror after a knife fight involving several people broke out by a Tube station in broad daylight.

Police including armed officers were scrambled to the fight by Woodford Underground Station, around 5.10pm on Monday.

One father was driving through the sleepy area to pick up his child from a hospital appointment when the violence broke out by his car.

He said the youths involved had been riding hire bikes, writing on Twitter: Then they throw them to ground hitting my car as they pull huge knives.

The resident said the incident left one of his children traumatised, while his wife and other children were forced to take alternative routes home.

As for me I saw more than wanted and now have to rest, he wrote, describing the incident as scary stuff.

Another man told how he arrived at the station by tube as eight police cars turned up. The aftermath looked a mess, he wrote.

Police said on Twitter they were called to reports of a fight involving weapons, including knives, and confirmed three men have been arrested.

MPS Redbridge wrote on Tuesday afternoon: At this time, no injured people have been identified.

Three males  no further details  were arrested on suspicion of affray; they remain in custody. Enquiries into the circumstances continue.
L ondoners could end up refusing substantial pay rises in a bid to benefit from the governments major expansion of childcare, MPs have been told.

Millions more parents will be entitled to 30 hours of free childcare each week from when their babies are nine months old, in plans announced by Chancellor Jeremy Hunt in the Spring budget.

The childcare overhaul was designed to help more parents get back to work.

But experts said very odd incentives in the system mean wealthier parents such as those living in London may be encouraged to turn down pay rises.

This is because families can only claim the free hours if each parent earns less than 100,000.

Christine Farquharson, associate director of the Institute for Fiscal Studies, said: Obviously thats a lot of money, obviously those families are well off. But that blunt cliff edge thats built into the system creates some very odd incentives where a parent with two very young children in London would be better off refusing a pay rise of almost 40,000 - almost 40,000 they would leave on the table - rather than give up on the childcare support through these new entitlements.

Speaking to MPs on the education committee, she added: It strikes me as a slightly odd design feature to put into a policy that we think is supposed to be about promoting labour supply and supporting parents to work.

The education committee is carrying out an inquiry into support for childcare and the early years and is asking academics and economists to analyse Mr Hunts childcare announcements.

As well as expanding the number of families eligible for 30 hours of free childcare, the government also announced incentive payments for new childminders of 600, rising to 1,200 for those who register through an agency and a relaxation of staff-to-child ratios in nurseries.

Ms Farquharson said the changes to childcare amount to a new branch of the welfare state.

She said the government will be buying around 80 per cent of the pre-school childcare hours in England, adding: When you are buying 80 per cent of the market for anything you really have to be sure you are getting the price right.

She said childcare has changed from being viewed as supporting children to become ready to start school, to being viewed as helping parents get back to work, adding: The system is being asked to do the job of supporting parents to work, so that leaves us with several real oddities in the system.

She said the governments childcare expansion will benefit about one in five families that are jointly earning less than 20,000 a year, but about four in five families that earn more than 45,000 a year.

She told MPs that the changes will not help the most disadvantaged children, but will help families with the highest childcare costs, who tend to be those with higher earnings who live in London or the South East away from their parents.

She added: If what we are trying to do is really support child development and think about the most disadvantaged children at the bottom of the distribution, by construction these budget proposals are really not about doing that.

Eva Lloyd, professor of Early Childhood from the University of East London, warned against an influx of private, for-profit childcare providers with no background in childcare.

She said: It always happens when substantial public money comes into a system. Its understandable but it has got to be managed.
N early 55,000 hospital appointments had to be cancelled in London due to the junior doctor strike last week, according to new figures.

NHS data showed a total of 54,588 outpatient and inpatient appointments were rescheduled across four days of industrial action in the capital  the highest figure of any region in England.

The total includes 4,985 cancelled operations and treatments.

An average of 5,438 junior doctors from the British Medical Association (BMA) joined picket lines in London last week, a slight decrease on the average of 5,675 recorded during the previous strike in March but still higher than any other region.

Nationally, more than 196,000 appointments were cancelled during the strike.

Health bosses warned the true scale of the disruption is likely to be higher as some hospitals avoided scheduling appointments on strike days.

The number of cancelled appointments in the capital jumped by 10 per cent compared with the previous three-day walkout by junior doctors in March.

Reacting to the figures, Dr Chris Streather, regional medical director for London, told the Standard: This way of working is not sustainable  each day of industrial action is an extra day that patients with long term health conditions dont get the appointment or operation they need.

Its therefore vital than anyone whos had a change in their symptoms or a new health concern contacts the NHS. This includes using 111 online as the first port of call for health needs, and 999 if it is a life-threatening emergency.

A total of 3,310 last minute elective operations were cancelled for non-clinical reasons in the London region between October and December 2022, according to NHS figures.

NHS England cited staff shortages, a lack of equipment and an unavailability of ward beds as among the reasons for the cancellations.

Dr Vivek Trivedi and Dr Robert Laurenson, of the British Medical Associations junior doctors committee said: These millions of patients are not in this position because of strikes though. Persistent under-resourcing of the health service and under-valuing staff  exacerbated by a pandemic  mean we simply dont have the workforce and capacity to provide the high-quality and timely care that patients need and deserve.

This is why we have been led to strike, and while we are of course sorry to anyone who had their care disrupted, this is the same apology were already having to give to patients on a daily basis because the NHS cannot cope.

Health Secretary Steve Barclay said the strikes were deeply disappointing and clearly had an impact on many patients as well as hampering our efforts to cut NHS waiting lists.

Separately, members of the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) will return to the picket line for 48 hours from 8pm on April 30 after rejecting a pay offer.
A contraceptive pill for men that works by causing temporary infertility could eventually become available in the UK.

Scientists said that blocking or deactivating the Arrdc5 gene, which is responsible for producing sperm, could form the basis of a reversible male contraceptive treatment.

Researchers at Washington State University used mice to test the impact of deactivating the gene on fertility.

They found that the mice produced 28 per cent less sperm compared to their normal counterparts. The sperm travelled at a third of the speed and came out in abnormal shapes.

Professor Jon Oatley, one of the studys authors, said: The study identifies this gene for the first time as being expressed only in testicular tissue, nowhere else in the body.

When this gene is inactivated or inhibited in males they make sperm that cannot fertilise an egg, and thats a prime target for male contraceptive development.

The team said that the treatment would not impact male hormones. A contraceptive pill for women has been available for over 60 years.

Prof Oatley added: You dont want to wipe out the ability to ever make sperm - just stop the sperm that are being made from being made correctly.

Then, in theory, you could remove the drug and the sperm would start being built normally again.

Researchers are currently working on a drug for humans which can block the protein made by Arrdc5. The gene is specific to the male testes and found in multiple species.

Professor Richard Anderson, of the University of Edinburgh, who was not part of the study, said: The last couple of years has seen a very encouraging uptick in really promising new targets for a male pill. This study identifies a novel gene which clearly has a major role in sperm production.

Sperm production was low, those sperm that were produced didnt function, and the male mice were completely infertile, but otherwise healthy. So [its] very interesting.

At present, the only available male contraceptives are condoms or a vasectomy.

However, a study by the US National Institutes of Health has shown promising results for Nestorone hormone gel, which can be rubbed into the skin to lower sperm count.

The study was published on Monday in the journal Nature Communications.
L ondons newest museum  dedicated to William Shakespeare  will open on the site of an Elizabethan playhouse in east London.

Visitors to the site, built on the remains of the Curtain Theatre in Shoreditch, will be transported back to its Shakespearean heyday through the use of the latest AI technology.

The Museum of Shakespeare, which is due to open next spring, will include historical displays as well as a projected reconstruction of the original theatre above the remains of the stage that will host animated performances and workshops, bringing to life the sights, smells and sounds of the playwrights London in 1598.

It is the work of designers Bompas & Parr whose immersive experiences have included a project for the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin and creating a flavour rainbow for a festival at the Royal Docks.

They have collaborated with Historic England and Museum of London Archaeology on the site which was uncovered over five years from 2011 when archaeologists found evidence of tenements built after the stage was shut down as well as ceramic money boxes used to collect entry fees, costume beads and coins.

They also found the remains of a 14m stage and evidence of a tunnel on the site which is part of a wider redevelopment of the area by Cain International who are building offices and homes there. The Curtain, which opened in 1577 and closed in 1624, was the main venue for Shakespeares company before the building of the Globe and saw performances of Romeo and Juliet and Henry IV Part I and Part II as well as plays by contemporaries including Ben Jonson.

Bompas & Parr co-founder Harry Parr said: The Museum of Shakespeare will be the most ambitious project that Bompas & Parr has undertaken and is in line with our mission to create location-based experiences that make London a more interesting place and a city unrivalled in its cultural importance. This will be Shakespeare as you have never experienced it before.

Heather Knight, senior archaeologist at heritage practice MOLA, said: Leading the excavations on the site of the Curtain, one of Londons earliest and longest-lived playhouses, that have transformed our understanding of early modern performance, has been an immense privilege.
U ber Eats customers in central London will be given the option to order takeaways in reusable and returnable containers in an eco-friendly trial.

The drive, designed to reduce single-use packaging, comes into effect on Tuesday and will be available to consumers living in Lambeth, Southwark, Westminster, and the City.

Parts of Camden, Islington and Kensington and Chelsea will also be covered.

Under the six-month trial, customers placing their orders with certain restaurants can opt-in to receive their food in reusable packaging.

After they have finished their meal, they can scan a QR code and have the packaging collected from their door from the following day onwards.

Collections will be made by couriers using bikes, electric cars or vans. The scheme is being managed by Again, a reusable packaging company based in Kennington Park, with funding backed by Starbucks.

Customers will book a return slot by scanning a QR code / Pure Lee Photography

Uber Eats General Manager Matthew Price said: This pilot aims to make reusable packing more accessible for customers and restaurants alike.

We know consumers care about the impact that their decisions have on the environment, and we are delighted to be part of this innovative trial which is another step in our mission to do our part in helping the food delivery ecosystem transition to a cleaner and greener future.

At present, restaurants taking part in the trial are Ritto's, The Pepper Tree, Donburi & Co, Iro Sushi, Capital Kebab Restaurant, Shawarma Hut and Viet Quan.

Incentives will be tested throughout the trial to measure what motivates customers to engage with reusables and what motivates them to return the packaging.

Again founder Matt Kennedy said he was excited to be trialling a new service that will collect directly from customers doors.

We are creating an exciting future of low-cost household takeback for all products, he said.
T he new owners of Sohos Groucho Club have annoyed some long-standing clients by getting rid of the membership committee, which decides who can belong to the venue.

A letter from the CEO, leaked to The Fence magazine, shows the group is being disbanded, and were told some of them arent happy. Company Artfarm bought the Groucho for 40m last year, and is aiming for a younger crowd.

Some existing members like the move: writer Ed Cumming says todays clientele comprises of blokes who directed one Oasis video in 1997 so its time for a change. The club had a busy Nineties, as the likes of Damien Hirst and Kate Moss, above, partied there.

A member of the senior management told us that the original membership committee will be replaced by a new one. They added that members of the original committee were happy as they were all given a free life membership.

Perhaps the truly fashionable shoudnt care either way about getting through the doors. As Groucho Marx, who lent his name to the venue, once said: I dont care to belong to any club that will have me as a member.

Small-screen offerings these days arent up to scratch, says Bennett

Alan Bennett / Getty Images

Legendary writer Alan Bennett isnt a fan of modern TV. Things that are lauded to the skies I cannot see the virtue of, he said at a rare public appearance last night. The History Boys author admitted he isnt the best audience: his taste in TV is terrible and he finds it hard to watch other peoples work as it makes him feel bad about his own.

You read something which is better than you can do and thats depressing. And then you read something thats worse, and thats depressing too, he joked. Speaking about his northern roots in a Q&A at the BFI Southbank, a sprightly Bennett also hinted that hed put down his pen at 88. He first called writing what I do before stopping himself and saying or what I did, Im not doing so much now. Many fans will hope he has a few more ideas yet.

Andrew Lloyd Webber fears for future of musicals

Andrew Lloyd Webber / PA

Andrew Lloyd Webbers Phantom of the Opera closed this week on Broadway, and hes worried about his art form. The era of the big original Broadway musical ended long ago, he says, blaming running costs and ageing venues. The composer adds: You cannot, in 2023, have audiences in desperation searching for restrooms during the intermission in a bar across the street in the pouring rain.

Thank parents who pay school fees says Christopher Chope

Tory MP Christopher Chope paid tribute to a perhaps underappreciated group in the House of Commons yesterday: parents who send their children to private schools. Chope urged schools minister Nick Gibb to thank them for acting in the public interest and saving taxpayers... a lot of money. Gibb obliged, but were not sure giving a leg up to your offspring will end up being rebranded as a selfless act.

Sweet smell of success

Londoners Diary 18th April 23 1 / 9 Londoners Diary 18th April 23 The Comedy Women In Print Prize 2023 Jo Brand attends The 2023 Comedy Women In Print Prize ceremony at The Groucho Club on April 17, 2023 in London, England. Dave Benett The Comedy Women In Print Prize 2023 Sharon Horgan attends The 2023 Comedy Women In Print Prize ceremony at The Groucho Club on April 17, 2023 in London, England. Dave Benett The 32nd Annual Critics' Circle Theatre Awards - Winners Anjana Vasan, Fiona Mountford, Patsy Ferran, winner of the Best Actress award for A Streetcar Named Desire, and Paul Mescal pose in the press room during The 32nd Annual Critics Circle Theatre Awards at @sohoplace on April 17, 2023 in London, England. Dave Benett The 32nd Annual Critics' Circle Theatre Awards - VIP Arrivals Lizzie Annis attends The 32nd Annual Critics' Circle Theatre Awards at @sohoplace on April 17, 2023 in London, England. Dave Benett The 32nd Annual Critics' Circle Theatre Awards - VIP Arrivals Samira Ahmed attends The 32nd Annual Critics' Circle Theatre Awards at @sohoplace on April 17, 2023 in London, England. Dave Benett Ascot & SheerLuxe Dinner In Celebration Of The QIPCO King George Weekend Eric Underwood attends the Ascot and Sheerluxe QIPCO King George Racing Weekend Preview Dinner at 34, Mayfair on April 17, 2023 in London, England. Dave Benett Ascot & SheerLuxe Dinner In Celebration Of The QIPCO King George Weekend Charlotte Collins attends the Ascot and Sheerluxe QIPCO King George Racing Weekend Preview Dinner at 34, Mayfair on April 17, 2023 in London, England. Dave Benett

Funny women Jo Brand and Sharon Horgan got some giggles as they accepted awards at the Comedy Women in Print Prize. Its an absolute joy to be in a room with this many people that still smells good. Thats women for you, Horgan quipped.

At @sohoplace, Paul Mescal presented the prize for Best Actress to his Streetcar Named Desire co-star Patsy Ferran at the Critics Circle Theatre Awards, while Lizzie Annis scooped a newcomer award. The BBCs Samira Ahmed attended.

Elsewhere, Sheerluxe editor Charlotte Collins and dancer Eric Underwood enjoyed an Ascot preview dinner at 34 Mayfair.
M inister for London Paul Scully has confirmed that he is still considering running to become the citys Mayor next year.

Mr Scully set out his stall for the role at a conference event on Tuesday, saying he would keep London moving, in an apparent echo of former prime minister Liz Trusss slogan Getting Britain Moving.

The Conservative MP for Sutton and Cheam said he hadnt made a decision yet on whether to stand, but then discussed a series of policy areas he would focus on if elected to the role, including crime, housing and transport improvements.

Mr Scully had said in January he may allow his name to go forward if he thought he was the best-placed person to have a chance of defeating Labour mayor Sadiq Khan in May next year. He was asked whether he was still considering his candidacy during a Q&A session which followed a speech he had given at the Centre for Londons 2023 spring conference.

Paul Scully MP / UK Parliament

He told the audience: Yes I am considering it, I havent made a decision yet, but frankly if were going to get London working, if were going to keep London as the top city in the world, there are certain things that the Mayor does, and frankly I just want to make sure that they get done, whoever is the Mayor of London.

That is making sure that first of all, we can stay safe in the city - thats an absolute, fundamental thing.

That we can house people, not just ourselves but our children, our grandchildren, people who want to come to this country.

But also keep London moving, and thats not just from having great public transport in the centre of the city, because lots of people cant afford to be in the centre of the city, so we need to make sure that we have good transport alternatives, including the car.

The phrase keep London moving bears some resemblance to Liz Trusss slogan Getting Britain Moving, which adorned her lectern during her one conference speech as Prime Minister. Ms Truss used it to describe her goal of boosting economic growth in the UK, but Mr Scully - who backed Ms Truss for PM - used it in more literal terms, to talk about Londoners transport options.

The Minister went on to say that Sadiq Khans planned expansion of the Ultra low emission zone (Ulez) was concerning to him, because it drags down social mobility.

The zone requires drivers with older, more polluting vehicles to pay a 12.50 daily charge to use their cars within its boundaries. Mr Khan is planning to expand the zone to cover the whole of Greater London on August 29, with the goal of improving the capitals air quality.

Mr Scully continued: Sutton, my constituency, is the fourth highest borough for people driving to and from work, and its not because people dont want to get on public transport, its just that the transport is not there for them to do so.

So we need greater investment in those alternatives, before youre having those punitive approaches.

The Minister added: So when youve got the police in special measures, youve got the fire brigade in special measures, youve got Transport for London which is in dire financial straits, and youve got not enough housing being built, we need a change, and thats whats driving me to look at this.

Mr Scully, who was elected in 2015 after capturing a Liberal Democrat-held seat, has served in Government under Boris Johnson, Liz Truss and now Rishi Sunak. For a period in 2019-2020, he was deputy chairman of the Tory party.

Paul Scully MP, pictured campaigning with Theresa May / Reuters

If he decides to run, he could be up against Conservative London Assembly Members Andrew Boff and Nick Rogers, the first of whom has confirmed he is running and the second of whom has said is considering it. Samuel Kasumu, a former advisor to Boris Johnson, has also said he will run for the role.

Mr Khan, mayor since 2016, has confirmed his intention to run for a third term, as Labours candidate.
S NP treasurer Colin Beattie has been released without charge after he became the second figure in the party to be arrested amid a police investigation into its finances.

The 71-year-old was questioned by detectives on Tuesday and Police Scotland said that evening that he had since been released without charge pending further investigation.

The arrest of Mr Beattie, the MSP for Midlothian North and Musselburgh, comes less than two weeks after former first minister Nicola Sturgeons husband was arrested as part of the same investigation.

Peter Murrell, the former SNP chief executive, was questioned by officers on Wednesday April 5 as officers searched the home the couple share. He was later released without charge, pending further inquiries.

Police Scotland have been looking into how more than 600,000 in donations to the party earmarked for an independence referendum had been used, but First Minister Humza Yousaf said on Tuesday that he would not be speaking to Ms Sturgeon about the investigation.

Mr Yousaf told journalists at Holyrood: I havent spoken to Nicola in the last couple of weeks, but I will get to speak to Nicola, I am certain I will.

But one thing Nicola and I will not be talking about is the police investigation. That would be wholly inappropriate.

Scottish Tory deputy leader Meghan Gallacher, however, said Mr Yousaf should tackle this scandal head on and prove he is his own man by suspending both the former first minister and her husband.

Speaking in Holyrood, Ms Gallacher said: The SNP is in total meltdown.

Its former chief executive and now its current treasurer have been arrested amid a police investigation into the partys finances.

And leaked footage has shown Nicola Sturgeon trying to shut down scrutiny.

Her comments came after Scottish Conservative chairman Craig Hoy called for Mr Beattie, Mr Murrell and Ms Sturgeon to be suspended from the SNP.

Mr Hoy said: This extremely serious matter is escalating by the day and everyone in the SNP has a duty to be as transparent as possible about what they knew and when.

But Mr Yousaf said it was a really important point of natural law that people are presumed innocent until guilty.

He said he would consider the situation if charges are brought by police, saying if that was the case we may well have to take that course of action.

The First Minister stated: Of course if they are guilty I would take the appropriate action, whether that is suspension or going further than that.

But it is really important due process takes place.

Earlier on Tuesday, Police Scotland confirmed Mr Beattie had been arrested in connection with the ongoing investigation into the funding and finances of the Scottish National Party.

A report will be submitted to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, the force added.

An SNP spokesperson said: We have no comment on a live police investigation.

Mr Beattie was the SNPs national treasurer between 2004 and 2020, losing the position to MP Douglas Chapman.

However, Mr Chapman quit the post in 2021, claiming he was not being given the required information to carry out the job.

Mr Beattie reclaimed the post soon afterwards, and reportedly told the partys ruling body on Saturday the SNP would struggle to balance the books  reports that have since been disputed by senior figures including former Westminster leader Ian Blackford.

There was no sign of police activity outside Mr Beatties address in Dalkeith, Midlothian, on Tuesday morning, or outside his constituency office in the town.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said the SNP is in a real mess.

During a visit to York University, he was asked about the arrest of Mr Beattie.

Those being let down are Scottish voters, who are entitled to better than this

Sir Keir told broadcasters: The SNP developments are deeply concerning.

Obviously there is a criminal investigation going on, so there is only so much I can say.

But after 16 years in power, it has descended to this  a real mess  and those being let down are Scottish voters, who are entitled to better than this.

Meanwhile, Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar said the news of the arrest meant the SNP was no longer a functioning government.

This is an SNP mired in scandal, mired in division, talking to themselves about themselves, and the crisis that now engulfs the SNP is not just an indication of how they govern their party, but also how they govern our country.
T he crisis engulfing the Scottish National Party deepened dramatically on Monday with the arrest of its treasurer.

The police move sent political tremors rippling south to Westminster as a major reshaping of Scotlands politics could sway the outcome of the next General Election. The arrest of SNP treasurer Colin Beattie, 71, also piled further pressure on ex-party leader Nicola Sturgeon.

News broke shortly after 9am of the latest twist in the police probe into the SNP.

A Police Scotland statement said: A 71-year-old man has today, Tuesday, 18 April 2023, been arrested as a suspect in connection with the ongoing investigation into the funding and finances of the Scottish National Party. The man is in custody and is being questioned by Police Scotland detectives. A report will be sent to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service.

On Tuesday evening, police said Mr Beattie had been released without charge pending further investigation.

The arrest of Mr Beattie, who also serves as a member of the Scottish Parliament for Midlothian North and Musselburgh, is the second in relation to the investigation into how more than 600,000 in donations to the party earmarked for an independence referendum had been used.

Earlier this month, former party chief executive Peter Murrell was arrested and questioned for more than 11 hours before being released without charge pending further investigation. Mr Murrell is Ms Sturgeons husband.

Officers spent two days searching their Glasgow home and the SNP headquarters in Edinburgh. They also seized a luxury motorhome from outside a house in Dunfermline.

The SNP has 45 seats at Westminster, the Tories six Scottish MPs, and Labour just one. Pollsters believe that if the SNP implodes, Labour could pick up three seats for every one gained by the Tories.

If Sir Keir Starmer gained 15 to 20 seats in Scotland, which until recently looked unlikely, it would open up an easier possible path for him to No10.

He would still need to make seismic gains in other parts of Britain including in the former Red Wall constiuencies. But a weakened SNP would make it harder for the Tories to target voters by warning that a vote for Labour could lead to a coalition between it and the SNP, as happened during the 2015 General Election.

Labour, whose deputy leader Angela Rayner was in Scotland campaigning with Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar yesterday, and the Tories quickly seized on the latest arrest.

Scottish Labour deputy leader Jackie Baillie said: This is yet another deeply concerning development and the Police Scotland investigation must be allowed to proceed without interference. For too long, a culture of secrecy and cover-up has been allowed to fester at the heart of the SNP.

Russell Findlay, Conservative member of the Scottish Parliament for West Scotland, tweeted: While Nicola Sturgeon avoids Holyrood following the arrest of her SNP boss husband, SNP treasurer and MSP Colin Beattie has now also been arrested as part of Police Scotlands investigation into SNP finances.

The former Scottish First Minister is staying away from Holyrood this week, the party confirmed, after a video of her seemingly playing down worries about the partys alleged money troubles emerged.

The arrest of Mr Beattie, above, also overshadowed new SNP leader Humza Yousaf setting out the priorities for his Scottish premiership in his first major policy statement at Holyrood since he took over from Ms Sturgeon after he narrowly won the leadership election.

He will deliver a statement in the Scottish Parliament on his governments priorities for the next three years on Tuesday afternoon.
The U.S. military said it likely killed a senior Islamic State leader in a helicopter raid Monday in northern Syria.

A U.S. Central Command statement did not identify the militant, nor give a precise location of the raid, but said "two other armed individuals were killed."

CENTCOM added that no U.S. troops were hurt during the raid and that it assessed no civilians were hurt or killed. The operation is the latest targeting Islamic State leaders in Syria.
A leading French publisher has been bailed after anti-terror laws were used to arrest him as he arrived in London.

Ernest Moret, a foreign rights manager with French publisher Editions La Fabrique, was stopped by officers at St Pancras on Monday.

He had been on his way to the London Book Fair at Kensington Olympia, which is scheduled to include an address by the Ukrainian presidents wife, Olena Zelenska.

According to a joint statement released by his publisher and left-wing book publisher, Verso Books, Mr Moret was stopped by police under counter-terror laws on Monday at St Pancras to determine whether he was engaged in terrorist acts or in possession of material for use in terrorism.

His employer claimed he was stopped over his alleged involvement in French pension age protests. They also alleged that he was then arrested after refusing to give up passcodes to his phone.

Officers said they were stopping him under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act 2000. This gives the police wide powers to search people at border crossings to check if they are involved in terrorism.

The Met said in a statement: At around 1930hrs on Monday, 17 April, a 28-year-old man was stopped by ports officers as he arrived at St Pancras station, using powers under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act 2000.

On Tuesday, 18 April, the man was subsequently arrested on suspicion of wilfully obstructing a Schedule 7 examination (contrary to section 18 of the Terrorism Act 2000). Enquiries continue.

A protest was called outside the French Institute in Queensberry Place, South Kensington at 7pm on Tuesday, over Mr Morets arrest.

A simultaneous demonstration has also been called outside the British Embassy in Paris.

In a joint statement Editions La Fabrique with Verso Books said: The police officers claimed that Ernest had participated in demonstrations in France as a justification for this act - a quite remarkably inappropriate statement for a British police officer to make and which seems to clearly indicate complicity between French and British authorities on this matter.

It was demanded that he give up his phone and pass codes to the officers, with no justification or explanation offered. This morning, Ernest was formally arrested and transferred to a police station, accused of obstruction because of his refusal to give up his pass codes.

They called upon the French ambassador to Britain Helene Duchene to request Ernests immediate release.

PEN International, a freedom of expression campaigning group, said it was deeply concerned by the detention of French publisher La Fabriques foreign rights manager, held since yesterday on counterterrorism grounds.

The London Book Fair told the Standard: As this is an ongoing police investigation, The London Book Fair cannot comment at this time.

The French embassy in London did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The three-day major publishing festival at Kensington Olympia from Tuesday is set to welcome around 25,000 people from the industry and related fields.
R are bottles of 86-year-old ale brewed but left unopened since the cancelled coronation of Edward VIII will now go to auction.

A workman stumbled upon the cobweb-covered stash in a bricked-up cellar after being called in to replace a floor at the 200-year-old Greene King brewery in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk in 2011.

Edward VIII reigned as king from January 1936 until December of the same year, when he abdicated to marry American divorcee Wallis Simpson.

His coronation was abruptly cancelled and the bottles were left untouched in the dusty cellar.

The new label / Greene King

To celebrate the upcoming coronation of King Charles III, several crates of the unearthed beer will be auctioned off on May 5, with all proceeds going to the charity founded by King Charles III, The Princes Trust.

The trust supports young people aged 11-30 from disadvantaged communities to develop essential life skills.

Greene King

Greene King says the beers, which would have been around 12% ABV at the time they were brewed, are no longer drinkable and will be auctioned off purely as collectors items.

One reviewer Simon Williams, who got the privilege to open a bottle in 2012, said: The smell from the glass is very deep and very rich indeed.

A little like the richest trifle your Grandmother ever made you for Sunday tea  Big, hot sherry doused fruits, shortcake biscuit, silky custard, and a big punch of the blue veined cheese that your folks, sitting next to you, had moved on to while you had a second helping of pudding.

Theres an obvious sourness, but its in no way unpleasant.

Greene King

Royal historian and author, Professor Kate Williams said: It is absolutely fascinating that these beers have been lying in the cellar for 86 years, having originally been brewed to celebrate the Coronation of Edward VIII on 12th May 1937.

We know that when Edward succeeded his father as King in January 1936, there was already doubt in his mind that he wanted to proceed, due to his relationship with Wallis Simpson. At the time, members of the Royal Family werent permitted to marry divorcees, and this clearly weighed on his mind.

The elaborate Coronation preparations took over a year to arrange, but by the time the event came around he had already abdicated, leaving the ceremony, and these celebratory beers, redundant.

Jack Palmer, head brewer at Greene King, said: We know a thing or two about being a King and theres nothing like a Royal event to bring the nation together, with thousands of Brits across the UK due to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III in their local pub next month.

Weve been brewing beer for over 200 years and creating special brews, such as the 1937 and the 2023 coronation ales, means we can capture moments in history to share with generations further down the line.
W hatsApp is among the apps criticising the Governments Online Safety Bill, which it says could potentially undermine end-to-end encryption.

Encrypted messaging services WhatsApp, Session, Signal, Element, Threema, Viber and Wire, have signed a letter calling on the Government to urgently rethink the proposed bill.

End-to-end encryption is a security method that keeps chats and messages secure. It is a system of communication where only the users communicating can read the messages.

The co-founder and chief executive of Element, Matt Hodgson, said: The UK wants its own special access into end-to-end encrypted systems.

Bad actors dont play by the rules. Rogue nation states, terrorists, and criminals will target that access with every resource they have.

(The Online Safety Bill) is outright dangerous. Its the cyber equivalent of Britain decommissioning its nuclear deterrent.

The BBC reported a Government official as saying: We support strong encryption, but this cannot come at the cost of public safety.

Tech companies have a moral duty to ensure they are not blinding themselves and law enforcement to the unprecedented levels of child sexual abuse on their platforms.

The Online Safety Bill in no way represents a ban on end-to-end encryption, nor will it require services to weaken encryption.

So what is the Online Safety Bill?

What is the Online Safety Bill?

The Online Safety Bill is a new set of laws to protect children and adults online. It is intended to make social media companies more responsible for their users safety on their platforms.

If the bill becomes law, it would make social media companies have to remove illegal content deemed as harmful to children and adults. This includes pornography and content promoting self-harm.

The Online Safety Bill has been working its way through Parliament since being published in draft form in May 2021. The Government says it would put the media regulator Ofcom in charge of checking whether platforms were protecting their users. Firms that break rules around harmful content would face large fines.

The Government has posted a guide to it on its website here.

Which measures were scrapped in the Online Safety Bill?

In November, controversial measures that would have forced big technology platforms to take down legal but harmful material were scrapped from the bill.

Critics of the section in the bill claimed it posed a risk to free speech and gave big tech companies too much power.

Ministers axed the provision on regulating legal but harmful material accessed by adults  offensive content that does not constitute a criminal offence. They are instead requiring platforms to enforce their terms and conditions for users.

If those terms explicitly prohibit content that falls below the threshold of criminality  such as some forms of abuse  Ofcom will then have the power to ensure they police them adequately.

The bill  which aims to regulate the internet  is intended to become law in the UK before next summer.

Culture Secretary Michelle Donelan denied weakening laws protecting social media users. She said adults would have more control over what they saw online.

She told the BBC the bill was not being watered down, and that tech companies had the expertise to protect people online.

These are massive, massive corporations that have the money, the knowhow and the tech to be able to adhere to this, she said in December.

She warned that those who did not comply would face significant fines and huge reputational damage.

But some criticised the changes, including Labour and the Samaritans, who called it a hugely backwards step.

What does legal but harmful mean?

The bill previously included a section that required the largest, highest-risk platforms to tackle some legal but harmful material accessed by adults. This referred to offensive content that does not constitute a criminal offence.

It meant that the likes of Facebook, Instagram and YouTube would have been tasked with preventing people being exposed to content about topics such as self-harm and eating disorders, as well as misogynistic posts.

Why is the Online Safety Bill controversial?

The bill has been controversial since its introduction to Parliament in May 2021. It has drawn criticism from two main camps: online safety campaigners and free speech advocates.

Despite the planned changes referring to material accessed by adults, the former argue the legislation does not go far enough to protect people from the swathes of harmful content online.

The boss of charity the Samaritans, Julie Bentley, said the damaging impact that this type of content has doesnt end on your 18th birthday.

Increasing the controls that people have is no replacement for holding sites to account through the law and this feels very much like the Government snatching defeat from the jaws of victory.

But free speech campaigners have argued the bill opened the door for technology companies to censor legal speech.

The legal but harmful provision was especially seen as restrictive and critics feared too much content would be removed. They have argued that social media sites would have been pressured into taking down material that people had a right to see.

It was legislating for hurt feelings, former Conservative leadership candidate Kemi Badenoch said.

In July, nine senior Conservatives, including former ministers Lord Frost, David Davis and Steve Baker, who has since returned to Government, wrote a letter to then Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries. They said the provision could be used to clamp down on free speech by a future Labour government.

Following the outcry, Ms Donelan has ditched the legal but harmful restrictions. These would have imposed potential multi-million-pound fines on sites if they failed to prevent adult and children from seeing material that fell under this category, such as content on suicides and self-harm.

Defending the decision, she said the measure would have harmed free speech and created a quasi-legal category.

It had (a) very, very concerning impact, potentially, on free speech, Ms Donelan told Sky News. There were unintended consequences associated with it. It was really the anchor that was preventing this bill from getting off the ground.

It was a creation of a quasi-legal category between illegal and legal. Thats not what a Government should be doing. Its confusing. It would create a different kind of set of rules online to offline in the legal sphere.
T he Queen would have turned 97 on April 21, 2023. The monarch passed away at her Balmoral estate in Scotland in September, aged 96.

Last June, the Queen celebrated 70 years on the throne, making her the UKs longest-reigning monarch.

She has been succeeded by her son, Charles, who is now King of England.

But how was the Queen when she died and how old was she when was she crowned?

Queen Elizabeth II turns 96 today--but her official birthday will be celebrated in June. / PA

How old is the Queen?

The Queen was born on April 21, 1926, meaning she was 96 years old when she died on September 8, 2022.

Queen Elizabeth II: The Early Years of Princess Elizabeth 1 / 29 Queen Elizabeth II: The Early Years of Princess Elizabeth Princess Elizabeth waving from the carriage as she drives in London in May 1928 PA Princess Elizabeth arriving at the 16th century church at Balcombe, Sussex, for the wedding of Lady May Cambridge and Captain Henry Abel Smith in 1931 PA The then Duke and Duchess of York with their daughter Princess Elizabeth at her christening on May 1, 1926. It was not expected that Elizabeth would become Queen PA Princess Elizabeth in the park in 1929 PA Princess Elizabeth arriving at Olympia for the Royal Tournament in 1930 PA Princess Elizabeth, daughter of the Duke and Duchess of York in 1930 PA Princess Elizabeth and a Highland Regiment drummer, during a visit to Scotland in 1930 PA Princess Elizabeth walking bareheaded through the rain to visit the Royal Tournament at Olympia, London in 1932 PA Two-year-old Princess Margaret with her sister Princess Elizabeth in 1933 PA Princess Elizabeth attends the Exhibition of Disabled Men's Work in 1933 PA Princess Elizabeth (left, later Queen Elizabeth II) and her sister Princess Margaret Rose out for a ride with their nanny in their horse-drawn carriage, in 1933. PA Princess Elizabeth (later Queen Elizabeth II) on a tricycle in the park in 1933 PA The Duke and Duchess of York with Princess Margaret and Princess Elizabeth at an Abergeldie Castle Fete, when they sold goods in aid of Crathie Church, near Balmoral in 1933 PA The Duchess of York, with Princess Elizabeth and Princess Margaret, arriving at Olympia for the International Horse show in 1935 PA Princess Elizabeth, daughter of the Duke of York, later King George VI, is bridesmaid to her uncle, the Duke of Gloucester in 1935 PA The Duchess of York (later Queen Elizabeth and the Queen Mother) arrives by car at the Royal Tournament in London accompanied by her daughters Princess Margaret and Princess Elizabeth in 1935 PA Queen Elizabeth (the Queen Mother) with her eldest daughter on the balcony of Buckingham Palace, after the coronation of King George VI in May 1937 PA Princess Elizabeth (now Queen Elizabeth II) after she broadcast on Children's Hour from Buckingham Palace in 1940 PA King George VI and Queen Elizabeth (the Queen Mother) with their daughter Princess Elizabeth in April 1944, shortly before her 18th birthday PA Elizabeth at the wheel of an Army vehicle when she served during the Second World War in the Auxiliary Territorial Service in January 1945 PA The engagement of Princess Elizabeth to Lieutenant Philip Mountbatten is announced and the happy young couple are pictured together at Buckingham Palace in 1947 PA Princess Elizabeth (now Queen Elizabeth II) and Lt Philip Mountbatten at Buckingham Palace after their wedding ceremony in 1947 PA

How old was the Queen when she was crowned?

The Queen was the longest reigning monarch of the UK, having been on the throne for 70 years. She became Queen on February 6, 1952, and was crowned the following year on June 2, 1953.

Queen Elizabeth II was only 25 when she became Queen of England, whereas Charles was 73 years old when he ascended the throne.

How many birthdays did the Queen have?

The Queen has been reigning for 70 years and will become the first British monarch to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee. / AP

The Queen had two birthdaysone on the day she was born (April 21) and an official celebration on a Saturday in June.

On her actual birthday, the Queen mostly celebrated privately, but there were usually gun salutes in Hyde Park, Windsor Great Park, and at the Tower of London.

Her June birthday celebration is a more official affair that involves an annual military parade known as Trooping the Colour, which took place on Thursday, June 2, this year.

To celebrate her Platinum Jubilee, the UK had two consecutive bank holidays, on Thursday, June 2, and Friday, June 3.

Why does the monarch have two birthdays?

Seventy photos for 70 years of the Queens record-breaking reign 1 / 93 Seventy photos for 70 years of the Queens record-breaking reign 2016: Queen Elizabeth II during a visit to the Princes Trust Centre in Kennington, London, to mark the 40th anniversary of the charity PA 1953: Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II PA 1957: The Queen, in a gold lame dress, is seen in the Long Library at Sandringham shortly after making the traditional Christmas Day broadcast to the nation. On the desk are portraits of Prince Charles and Princess Anne. The Queen is holding the copy of Pilgrims Progress, from which she read a few lines during her message. The broadcast was televised this year for the first time and was carried by both the BBC and ITV. It was the 25th anniversary of the first radio message to the Commonwealth by her grandfather, King George V PA 2007: Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh at Broadlands for their Royal Wedding Diamond Anniversary PA 1952: The new Queen, Elizabeth II (formerly Princess Elizabeth), returns to Clarence House, London, with the Duke of Edinburgh from London Airport after the sudden death of her father, King George VI. She succeeded the King on his death a day earlier PA 1954: Prince Charles and Princess Anne stand with their parents, the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh, on the balcony of Buckingham Palace following their return from the Commonwealth tour PA 1955: Watched by Lady Churchill, Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill bows low to Queen Elizabeth II as he welcomes her and the Duke of Edinburgh to 10 Downing Street for dinner PA 1956: The Queen strolls through Windsor Great Park with Prince Charles, Princess Anne, and two of her corgies. The were there to watch the Duke of Edinburgh play polo PA 1958: Miners see the Queen wearing white overalls, scarf and helmet and black gumboots during her visit to Rothes Colliery Fifeshire. It was the Queen;s first visit to a coal mine and she spent about half an hour underground visiting the coal face PA 1959: Queen Elizabeth II and Duke of Edinburgh at Windsor joined by Sugar, one of the Royal corgis PA 1960: The Queen holding Prince Andrew during an outing in the grounds at Balmoral, Scotland, where the Royal Family are on holiday PA 1961: Queen Elizabeth II and her son, the Prince of Wales, out riding at Windsor Castle PA 1962: The Queen wears a warm leopard-skin coat on a very cold March day at the Sandown Park race meeting. With her is the Queen Mother. ... Horse Racing - Sandown Par PA 1963: Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh, wearing their Order of the Thistle robes, after the Orders service in Edinburgh PA 1964: Queen Elizabeth II leaving after the State Opening of Parliamen PA 1965: The Royal Family in the gardens of Frogmore House, Windsor, Berkshire, as they celebrate the Queens 39th birthday. (l-r) The Queen, baby Prince Edward, Princess Anne, Prince Andrew, Prince Charles and the Duke of Edinburgh PA 1966: The World Cup Final at Wembley Stadium PA 1967: Queen Elizabeth II at the garden party in the grounds of the Royal Hospital, Chelsea, London, in connection with the 50th anniversary of the Womens Services PA 1968: The Royal Family in the grounds of Frogmore House, Windsor, Berkshire. Left to right: Duke of Edinburgh, Princess Anne, Prince Edward, Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Charles (behind the Queen) and Prince Andrew PA 1969: The Queen crowns her son, Prince Charles, as Prince of Wales during the investiture ceremony at Caernarfon castle PA 1970: Queen Elizabeth II with Prime Minister Edward Heath and American President Richard Nixon and his wife Pat Nixon at Chequers, the official country residence of the Prime Minister in Buckinghamshir PA 1971: Queen Elizabeth II leaving the King Edward VII Hospital for Officers after visiting Princess Anne. The Princess had an emergency operation for the removal of an ovarian cyst PA 1972: The Queen in her study at Balmoral. ... Royalty - The Queen and Duke of Edinburgh Celebrate Silver Weddin PA 1973: Queen Elizabeth II sitting on a grassy bank with the corgis at Virginia Water to watch competitors, including Prince Philip, in the Marathon of the European Driving Championship, part of the Royal Windsor Horse Show PA 1973: Queen Elizabeth II, with Chief Instructor, Small Arms Corp LT Col George Harvey, firing the last shot on a standard SA 80 rifle when she attended the centenary of the Army Rifle Association at Bisley as she turns 90 on the April 21st PA 1974: Queen Elizabeth II smiles as she celebrated her 48th birthday at Windsor Castle PA 1975: Queen Elizabeth II stands near an oak sapling which she planted in a garden of the Government Guesthouse in Tokyo. The oak sapling had been brought to Japan from Windsor Castle PA 1976: Queen Elizabeth II on her 50th birthday with Prince Philip and their youngest son Prince Edward, 12, in the grounds of Windsor Castl PA 1977: Queen Elizabeth II on a walkabout in Portsmouth during her Silver Jubilee tour of Great Britai PA 1978: Queen Elizabeth II with a Jersey cow she was presented with at the Country Show at Le Petit Catelet, Saint John, Jersey, as she and the Duke of Edinburgh visited the island of Jersey, Channel Island PA 1979: Queen Elizabeth II during a walkabout in Muscat while visiting Oman PA 1980: Queen Elizabeth II with some of her corgis walking the Cross Country course during the second day of the Windsor Horse Trials PA 1981: Queen Elizabeth II walking through the crowds at the Royal Ascot race meetin PA 1982: Queen Elizabeth II taking photographs during her visit to the South Sea Islands of Tuvalu. Behind her is the Duke of Edinburgh PA 1983: Queen Elizabeth II inspects the Guard of Honour at Jomo Kenyatta International Airpor PA 1984: Queen Elizabeth II and Rt Rev John Denis Wakeling, the Bishop of Southwell, entering Southwell Minster amid cheering crowds, where she distributed Maundy Money to pensioner PA 1985: Queen Elizabeth II takes the salute of the Household Guards regiments during the Trooping of the Colour ceremony in London, which marks the Queens official birthday PA 1986: Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh on the Great Wall of China at the Bedaling Pass, 50 miles north-west of Beijing, on the third day of their State Visit to the country PA 1987: The Queen makes her traditional Christmas Day address to the nation and the Commonwealth. The broadcast is produced by Sir David Attenborough (not pictured) for the second year running PA 1988: The Duke of Edinburgh helps Queen Elizabeth II to alight from the new 120,000 Australia State Coach, Australias bicentennial gift, at the Houses of Parliament as they arrive for the State Opening PA 1989: The Queen with former US president Ronald Reagan and his wife Nancy at Buckingham Palace where the Queen bestowed a knighthood on Mr Reagan. He was made an honorary Knight of Grand Cross of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath. ... Investitures and Award PA 1990: Queen Elizabeth II at Ascot for the King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Diamond Stakes PA 1991:The Queen gestures to Ruud Lubbers, Prime Minister of the Netherlands and President of the EC Council of Ministers, at Buckingham Palace as the leaders of the G7 Summit countries gathered for a pre-dinner photo-call in the Music Room.The Duke of Edinburgh had been expected to join the leaders and fill the empty chair PA 1992: Queen Elizabeth II surveys the scene at Windsor Castle following the fire PA 1994: The Queen walks through the gravestones at Bayeux Cemetery after a D-day Commemoration service PA 1995: South Africas President Nelson Mandela greets Queen Elizabeth II as she steps from the royal yacht Britannia in Cape Town at the official start of the her first visit to the country since 1947 PA 1996: The Queen lays a wreath at the gates of Dunblane Primary School accompanied by the Princess Royal. ... The Queen with the Princess Royal lays flowers at Dunblane School PA 1997: Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, view the floral tributes to Diana, Princess of Wales, outside Buckingham Palace PA 1998: The Queen, Colonel in Chief of the Corps of the Royal Engineers looks though a Theodolite during her visit to the 42 survey Engineer Group at Denison Barracks Hermitage PA 1999: The Queen joined Mrs Susan McCarron, her ten-year-old son James and Housing Manager Liz McGinniss for tea in their home in the Castlemilk area of Glasgow PA 2000: The Queen and the Queen Mother leave church by horse drawn carriage on the Sandringham Estate, Norfolk PA 2001: Queen Elizabeth II during her visit, to Elstree Studios where the famous British soap opera EastEnders is filmed PA 2002: Queen Elizabeth II enjoys a walk about, after visiting the Old Government House in Fredericton, New Brunswick during her two week Royal visit to Canada PA 2003: HRH Queen Elizabeth II poses with the triumphant England squad during a reception at Buckingham Palace for the World Cup PA 2004: Queen Elizabeth II peers round a corner during a visit to the Royal Albert Hall in London, marking the end of an 8 year restoration program. ... Queen Elizabeth II visits Royal Albert Hall PA 2005: The Prince of Wales and Camilla Parker Bowles leave St Georges Chapel in Windsor, followed by Britains Queen Elizabeth II PA 2006: Queen Elizabeth II sits in the Regency Room at Buckingham Palace in London as she looks at some of the cards which have been sent to her for her 80th birthday PA 2008: Queen Elizabeth II, delivers a speech at the start of a state banquet with French President Nicolas Sarkozy, unseen, at Windsor Castle in Windso PA 2009: Queen Elizabeth II plants a tree as she visits Newmarket Animal Health Trus PA 2010: The Duke of Edinburgh looks on (left) as Queen Elizabeth II talks with Pope Benedict XVI exchange gifts during an audience in the Morning Drawing Room at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburg PA 2011: Queen Elizabeth II during a visit to the National Memorial Arboretum, Staffordshire, where she laid a wreath next to the wall of the Armed Forces Memorial where the 2010 names are inscribed, after she attended a service of thanksgiving to mark the return of soldiers from a five-month tour of duty in Afghanistans Helmand province PA 2012: The National Anthem is sung to Queen Elizabeth II outside Buckingham Palace during the Diamond Jubilee Concert PA 2013: Queen Elizabeth II joins The Argyll & Sutherland Highlanders, 5th Battalion, Royal Regiment of Scotland (5 SCOTS) for a group photograph during her visit to Howe Barracks in Canterbury, Ken PA 2014: Angelina Jolie is presented with the Insignia of an Honorary Dame Commander of the Most Distinguished Order of St Michael and St George by Queen Elizabeth II in the 1844 Room at Buckingham Palace PA 2015: Queen Elizabeth II waves to British Royal Navy crew members performing a salute on the HMS Bulwark amphibious assault ship during a tour of the Grand Harbour in a traditional Maltese fishing boa PA 2017: Queen Elizabeth II meets Quinn, the skeleton horse as she listens to a briefing on the latest innovations in equine health as she visits the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment at the Hyde Barracks, London PA 2018: Queen Elizabeth II sits next to Anna Wintour (right) as they view Richard Quinns runway show before presenting him with the inaugural Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design as she visits London Fashion Weeks BFC Show Space PA 2019: Queen Elizabeth II welcomes newly elected leader of the Conservative party Boris Johnson during an audience in Buckingham Palace, London, where she invited him to become Prime Minister and form a new governmen PA 2020: Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh in the quadrangle of Windsor Castle ahead of his 99th birthday PA 20021: Queen Elizabeth II takes her seat for the funeral of the Duke of Edinburgh in St Georges Chapel, Windsor Castle, Berkshire PA

Simply put, the Queen had two birthdays due to British weather.

As the monarchs birthday is typically celebrated with outdoor events, such as Trooping the Colour, it makes more sense to celebrate in the summer, when theres a greater chance of nice weather.

But the Queen wasnt the first monarch to celebrate two birthdays.

According to Royal Museums Greenwich , George II started the tradition in 1748. He moved his birthday celebrations to coincide with the annual military parade, as he thought the public wouldnt be able to celebrate in November, his actual birth month.

Furthermore, Queen Elizabeth IIs great-grandfather, Edward VII, was born in November, but his birthday was celebrated in May and June throughout his reign.
S t Georges Day, also known as The Feast of George, celebrates the patron saint of England.

It is observed annually on April 23, on the anniversary of his execution.

While people in Northern Ireland get a bank holiday for St Patricks Day and people in Scotland also have one for St Andrews Day, unfortunately for people living and working in England, St Georges Day is not a bank holiday.

Neither is St Davids Day in Wales.

So why isnt St Georges Day a bank holiday, despite other UK countries getting bank holidays?

Why isnt St Georges Day a bank holiday?

Although St Georges Day is celebrated across England, it technically isnt an official holiday.

Many bank holidays give people a chance to observe major holidays, such as Christmas and Easter, for example.

Others allow people to observe major events, like the Queens jubilee and funeral last year, and the upcoming Kings coronation.

However, unlike Scotland and Northern Ireland, England and Wales do not have a bank holiday to celebrate St Georges Day and St Davids Day, respectively.

The monarch, on the advice of the Government, has the power to create a new bank holiday.

Therefore, its possible that St Georges Day could become a bank holiday one day, as the official dates are not set in stone.

There hasnt been any suggestion recently that St Georges Day will become an official holiday.

However, there have been calls to make it a bank holiday in the past.

In 2018, then-Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said that if he were elected, he would introduce four new bank holidays to the whole of the UK, to mark each of the countrys patron saints.

If we win the next election, St Georges Day will become a national holiday for Britains workers, he said.

It will be a day where we can all show our pride and celebrate our countrys tradition of fairness, inclusivity and social justice.

Bank holidays in 2023

May 1

This is known as the Early May bank holiday.

May 8

For King Charles IIIs coronation.

May 29

This bank holiday comes at the end of spring.

August 28

Known as the Summer bank holiday.

December 25

Christmas Day bank holiday.

December 26

Boxing Day.
T he Home Office has announced proposals to make some blades that are designed to look menacing, such as zombie blades, illegal.

Additionally, a public inquiry will consider raising the maximum penalty for their possession and sale.

According to the Home Office, some machetes and other knives can have legitimate uses in the outdoor and agricultural industries, but criminals are purchasing, selling, and employing the larger blades as weapons to scare and seriously injure victims.

A seven-week consultation will carefully define which blades will be prohibited.

What is a zombie knife?

A zombie blade taken from a Hackney estate by police / Waltham Forest Police / PC Ware

A zombie knife is a type of ornate knife or bladed weapon inspired by zombie films.

These knives can come in a variety of sizes and shapes, but they are typically identified by their serrated edge, and graphics or text (whether on the blade or handle) that suggest they should be used for violence.

What are the current rules?

Zombie knives are legal to own as long as they don't have any markings that suggest they could be used for violence.

This implies that, even if they think the weapons will be used to commit a crime, police cannot seize them if they are discovered in someone's home.

The Government said in 2016 that work was underway to create laws to outlaw zombie knives, when Theresa May was the home secretary.

Later the same year, it made an announcement prohibiting the sale, production, and importing of zombie knives in England and Wales.

What would the new rules mean?

According to Home Office plans, police could be given the authority to seize some items with blades, even if they are not illegal.

Also, carrying a knife with the purpose to harm someone or instill fear of violence may become a new crime under consideration by the Government. The current law only applies to those who intend to cause injury.

The maximum sentence for importing, producing, or providing illegal offensive weapons or selling bladed items to those under the age of 18 might also be extended, from six months to two years in prison.
A bear that mauled a jogger to death in Italy has been captured by authorities sparking a debate on whether or not she should be euthanised.

Officials in Trento revealed that the mother bear, known as Jj4, had been captured overnight on Monday in a tube trap, baited by fresh fruit.

She was sedated and taken to a holding chamber as authorities make a final decision on her fate.

Her three self-sufficient cubs, who are both two years old, were with her at the time but were separated from their mother and freed unharmed.

Andrea Papi, 26, was killed by Jj4 while out on a mountain training run between April 5 and 6.

After identifying Jj4 as his killer through her DNA, Trento provincial authorities ordered her to be euthanised, but animal rights groups appealed to an administrative court, which suspended the order.

Papis family also said they didnt want the bear culled.

Jj4 is the same Alpine brown bear that injured a father and son out walking in the region in 2020. Following that incident Trento provincial authorities also ordered her killed but a court blocked the move.

Andrea Papi / Facebook

At a news conference Tuesday, Trentos provincial president, Maurizio Fugatti, expressed anger that Papis death could have been avoided if Jj4 had been euthanised after her first dangerous encounter with humans.

He denounced as ideological the arguments by animal rights groups that have opposed selective euthanasia for known aggressive bears like Jj4, and said the province would have preferred to have euthanised her on the spot, and still hopes to pending a final court ruling.

Jj4 was born to two bears brought to Italy from Slovenia two decades ago as part of an EU-funded program to repopulate the brown bear population that had been dwindling to the point of near extinction.

The Life Ursus project began in 1999 with the introduction of three males and six female bears in the Trento forests, aiming to rebuild the population to 40-60 bears over a few decades.

But the population has rebounded to more than 100 identified bears, according to Italian news reports, and is increasingly having encounters with the human population.
A t least 21 people have died in a horror fire at a Beijing hospital, Chinese state media reported.

Another 71 people were evacuated after the fire broke out Tuesday in the inpatient department of Beijing Changfeng Hospital.

Footage emerged online showing desperate patients clambering out of windows and using bedsheets to abseil to safety from the upper floors.

Black smoke enveloped the building with other survivors seeking refuge on top of air conditioning units outside the windows.

Chinese state media said the fire has been extinguished and rescue work has been completed.

The cause of the fire is under investigation, the reports said.

One witness posted on Weibo: Its tragic. I can see the accident from the window of my house.

A lot of people were standing on the air-conditioning unit at noon, and some even jumped off.

Dimsum Daily News said the fire was extinguished an hour and a half after igniting, around 1:33pm local time.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has ordered a mass effort to help those who are injured.

Beijing Changfeng Hospital is in the capitals western urban area, about 25 minutes by car from central Tiananmen Square.
T he Covid-19 virus most likely leaked from a laboratory in Wuhan, a US Senate report has found.

Three years after Covid was first detected in Wuhan, scientists are still divided on whether it jumped from animals to humans at a wet market or leaked from a virus lab.

However, a 300-page Senate report has now concluded that the dominant theory that the virus jumped from animals to humans no longer deserves the presumption of accuracy.

The report, released in full by Axios, says: The Covid-19 pandemic was, more likely than not, the result of a research-related incident.

New information, made publicly available and independently verifiable, could change this assessment.

However, the hypothesis of a natural zoonotic origin no longer deserves the benefit of the doubt, or the presumption of accuracy.

It concludes that the preponderance of information affirms the plausibility of a research-related incident that was likely unintentional resulting from failures of biosafety containment during vaccine-related research.

The report said there were anomalies between Covid-19 and other diseases that have spilled over naturally from animals to humans.

It says critical evidence is yet to be found proving there was a natural spillover.

The report is the result of former Senator Richard Burrs investigation into the origins of the pandemic as the minority leader of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee.

It comes after the FBI also assessed that a leak from a laboratory in Wuthan likely caused the Covid pandemic.

Agency director Christopher Wray said earlier this year: The FBI has for some time now assessed that the origins of the pandemic are most likely a potential lab incident in Wuhan.

China denies the claims and says they have no credibility whatsoever.

Foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said the involvement of the US intelligence community was evidence of the politicisation of origin tracing.

She added: We urge the US to respect science and facts.

Mao insisted China had been open and transparent in the search for the pandemic origins and has shared the most data and research results on virus tracing and made important contributions to global virus tracing research.
Hyundai Mobis has developed a new type of display for use in cars that can be rolled up like paper for the first time in the world.

The auto parts maker said Monday that it succeeded in developing the rollable display for use in self-driving cars. Similar displays are already only available for smartphones and TV screens.
A German photographer has declined a major award after admitting his winning image was created using artificial intelligence (AI).

Boris Eldagsen scooped a gong at the Sony World Photography Awards - images from which are currently being exhibited at Somerset House in London - for his artwork Pseudomnesia/The Electrician.

But in a statement released on his website he has admitted his image was created using AI, but that he had entered as a cheeky monkey it to see if competitions are prepared for such entries, and to spark debate.

His winning black-and-white image appears to show an older woman embracing a younger woman, as they both look solemn.

Mr Eldagsen wrote on his website: Thank you for selecting my image and making this a historic moment, as it is the first AI generated image to win in a prestigous international photography competition.

 How many of you knew or suspected that it was AI generated?

AI images and photography should not compete with eachother in an award like this. They are different entities. AI is not photography. Therefore I will not accept the award.

I applied as a cheeky monkey, to find out, if the comeptitions are prepared for AI images to enter. They are not.

He said an open discussion is needed in the photography world, around what constitutes photography.

Is the umbrella of photography large enough to invite AI images to enter  or would this be a mistake? With my refusal of the award I hope to speed up this debate, he said.

He went on to suggest his rejected award could be donated to a photography competition based in Odesa, Ukraine.

The Sony World Photography Awards, run by the World Photography Organisation, is described as the leading competition for photographers and artists working in photography.

It comprises four competitions - professional, open, student and youth.

Mr Eldagsen won the creative subcategory of the open category, where prizes available include $5,000 and top Sony digital imaging equipment.

The World Photography Organisation has said Mr Eldagsen had revealed his use of AI to them before being named winner.

A statement provided to the Guardian said: In our correspondence, he explained how following two decades of photography, my artistic focus has shifted more to exploring creative possibilities of AI generators and further emphasising the image heavily relies on his wealth of photographic knowledge. As per the rules of the competition, the photographers provide the warranties of their entry.

The creative category of the open competition welcomes various experimental approaches to image making from cyanotypes and rayographs to cutting-edge digital practices. As such, following our correspondence with Boris and the warranties he provided, we felt that his entry fulfilled the criteria for this category, and we were supportive of his participation.

Additionally, we were looking forward to engaging in a more in-depth discussion on this topic and welcomed Boris wish for dialogue by preparing questions for a dedicated Q&A with him for our website.

As he has now decided to decline his award we have suspended our activities with him and in keeping with his wishes have removed him from the competition. Given his actions and subsequent statement noting his deliberate attempts at misleading us, and therefore invalidating the warranties he provided, we no longer feel we are able to engage in a meaningful and constructive dialogue with him.

We recognise the importance of this subject and its impact on image-making today. We look forward to further exploring this topic via our various channels and programmes and welcome the conversation around it. While elements of AI practices are relevant in artistic contexts of image-making, the awards always have been and will continue to be a platform for championing the excellence and skill of photographers and artists working in the medium.

Mr Eldagsens stunt comes as debate over AI and its place in the world rumbles on.

The prevalence of AI has increased hugely in recent years, with systems such as chatbot ChatGPT quickly becoming part of everyday life.

Last month, technology experts including Elon Musk urged scientists to pause developing AI to ensure it does not pose a risk to humanity.

Tech chiefs including Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak and Skype co-founder Jaan Tallinn signed an open letter demanding all labs stop training AI systems for at least six months.

The Sony World Photography Awards 2023 exhibition opened at Somerset House on April 14 and is running until May 1. It features more than 200 prints and hundreds of images from winning and shortlisted photographers.
A man has been charged with murder after he allegedly shot and killed a young woman who was in a car that mistakenly pulled into his driveway in rural New York.

The incident occurred on Saturday night in the small town of Hebron when a group of four young adults were looking for a friends house in the area when they drove their car up the wrong driveway.

They were turning around after realizing their error when the homeowner 65-year-old Kevin Monahan came outside with a gun and fired at their vehicle killing Kaylin Gillis, according to Washington County Sheriff Jeffrey Murphy.

Monahan has been charged with murder of the 20 year-old.

Sheriff Murphy told a press conference: Its a very rural area, its dirt roads, theres not a lot of cellular service or any type of internet... its easy to get lost.

Monahan fired at least two shots, one of which struck Ms Gillis, it is alleged.

The group drove away and, due to poor cellphone reception, wasnt able to contact 911 until reaching the nearby town of Salem.

First responders arrived on scene and attempted to perform lifesaving measures on Ms Gillis, but she was pronounced dead at the scene.

The sheriff described Gill as an innocent, young girl and said she comes from a very good family, whom he knows personally.

He added: This is a very sad case. There was no reason for Mr Monahan to feel threatened, especially as it appears the vehicle was leaving at the time.

Murphy said there was no known interaction between the group and Monahan and that investigators believe the car was only in his driveway for a very short time before shots were fired.

The sheriff would not disclose what type of firearm was used.

When investigators determined that Monahan was the owner of the residence in Hebron, they attempted to make contact with him but he refused to leave his home to speak with them, according to Murphy.

Monahan, who Murphy said has no known criminal history, was arrested and charged with second-degree murder.

He has been remanded in custody in New York.
A white man in Kansas City charged over shooting and wounding a Black teenager who rang his doorbell has turned himself in to police.

Ralph Yarl, 16, mistakenly walked up to Andrew Lesters suburban home to pick up his younger siblings around 10pm last Thursday and was shot in the forehead and arm.

Lester, 84, was on Monday charged with first-degree assault, which could bring a sentence of life in prison, Clay County Prosecutor Zachary Thompson said.

He surrendered to police in Kansas City, Missouri, on Tuesday.

He was also charged with armed criminal action, punishable by up to 15 years in prison.

Andrew Lester, charged in the shooting of Ralph Yarl, has surrendered at our Detention Center. He is in custody, the Clay County Sheriff said on Twitter.

I can tell you there was a racial component to the case, prosecutor Zachary Thompson earlier told a news conference.

However, Lester has not been charged with a hate crime and charging documents do not describe the alleged racial bias, he added.

Lester fired two shots through a glass door from a .32-caliber revolver, prosecutors allege.

Ralph, who was shot in the head and an arm, did not cross the threshold, Mr Thompson said, adding it did not appear any words were exchanged in the encounter.

The teenager told police in an interview at the hospital where he was treated that the man told him, Dont come around here, local media reported.

The teen was recovering at home on Monday, his family said.

Personal injury lawyer Benjamin Crump, who is representing the Yarl family, said: You cant just shoot people without having justification when somebody comes knocking on your door - and knocking on your door is not justification.

Ralph, an honor student and all-state band member, had been due to pick up his two younger brothers when he approached the wrong house by mistake.

He ran to multiple homes asking for help before finding someone who would call the police.

Ralphs supporters plan to hold a rally Tuesday evening in Kansas City.

Missouri is among roughly 30 states with Stand Your Ground laws, which allow for the use of deadly force in self-defence, but prosecutors said it did not apply here.

No child should ever live in fear of being shot for ringing the wrong doorbell, Vice President Kamala Harris tweeted in response to the shooting.

President Joe Biden also spoke by phone with Ralph, the White House said on Monday.
A man in Kansas City charged over shooting and wounding a Black teenager who rang his doorbell has turned himself in to police.

Ralph Yarl, 16, mistakenly walked up to Andrew Lesters suburban home to pick up his younger siblings around 10pm last Thursday and was shot in the forehead and arm.

Lester, 84, was on Monday charged with first-degree assault, which could bring a sentence of life in prison, Clay County Prosecutor Zachary Thompson said.

He surrendered to police in Kansas City, Missouri, on Tuesday.

Lester, who is white, was also charged with armed criminal action, punishable by up to 15 years in prison.

Andrew Lester, charged in the shooting of Ralph Yarl, has surrendered at our Detention Center. He is in custody, the Clay County Sheriff said on Twitter.

I can tell you there was a racial component to the case, prosecutor Zachary Thompson earlier told a news conference.

However, Lester has not been charged with a hate crime and charging documents do not describe the alleged racial bias, he added.

Lester fired two shots through a glass door from a .32-caliber revolver, prosecutors allege.

Ralph, who was shot in the head and an arm, did not cross the threshold, Mr Thompson said, adding it did not appear any words were exchanged in the encounter.

The teenager told police in an interview at the hospital where he was treated that the man told him, Dont come around here, local media reported.

The teen was recovering at home on Monday, his family said.

Personal injury lawyer Benjamin Crump, who is representing the Yarl family, said: You cant just shoot people without having justification when somebody comes knocking on your door - and knocking on your door is not justification.

Ralph, an honor student and all-state band member, had been due to pick up his two younger brothers when he approached the wrong house by mistake.

He ran to multiple homes asking for help before finding someone who would call the police.

Ralphs supporters plan to hold a rally Tuesday evening in Kansas City.

Missouri is among roughly 30 states with Stand Your Ground laws, which allow for the use of deadly force in self-defence, but prosecutors said it did not apply here.

No child should ever live in fear of being shot for ringing the wrong doorbell, Vice President Kamala Harris tweeted in response to the shooting.

President Joe Biden also spoke by phone with Ralph, the White House said on Monday.
S udans rival fighting sides have agreed a 24-hour ceasefire after deadly fighting engulfed the capital and saw a US diplomatic convoy fired upon.

The conflict between the Sudanese army and a paramilitary group known as the RSF broke out four days ago and has killed at least 185, triggering a humanitarian crisis.

The ceasefire will start at 6pm on Tuesday (5pm BST) and will not extend beyond the agreed 24 hours, Army General Shams El Din Kabbashi, a member of Sudan's ruling military council, said.

Early on Tuesday, gunfire was reported across Khartoum accompanied by the sound of warplanes and explosions.

Residents in the neighbouring cities of Omdurman and Bahri also reported air strikes that shook buildings and anti-aircraft fire, alongside conflict in the west of the country.

Antony Blinken, the US Secretary of State, held separate calls with RSF leader General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, and General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, to appeal for the 24-hour ceasefire to allow the Sudanese to be safely reunited with families.

People flee from southern Khartoum / AFP via Getty Images

Mr Blinken said a US convoy was attacked despite the vehicles being marked with diplomatic license plates and bearing US flags. No personnel were injured in the incident.

After the call, Hemedti said the RSF approved the ceasefire to ensure the safe passage of civilians and the evacuation of the wounded.

In a post on Twitter, Hemedti said he had discussed pressing issues" with Blinken and more talks were planned.

The RSF also issued a statement saying it was waging a battle to restore the rights of our people" in what it called a new revolution.

Hemedti's whereabouts have not been disclosed since fighting began.

A previous shorter ceasefire agreed for Sunday was not fully observed. The main international airport has been under attack, halting commercial flights.

Fighters have attacked aid workers, hospitals and diplomats, including an EU ambassador assaulted in his home.

Three workers for the World Food Programme were killed in the fighting on Saturday, and a UN plane was hit in crossfire.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies said it was nearly impossible to provide humanitarian services around the capital and that Sudan's health system was at risk of breakdown.

The outbreak of fighting followed rising tensions over a plan for the RSF's integration into the regular military.

Conflict over the timetable for that process delayed the signing of the framework deal to launch a civilian transition that was due to be signed earlier this month.

It comes four years after former president Omar Bashir was toppled by popular protests, and nearly two years after a subsequent military coup.
V ladimir Putin has faced international condemnation after apparently visiting occupied areas of Ukraine as his forces stepped up their brutal use of heavy artillery in the devastated city of Bakhmut,

The Russian President was shown arriving in a military helicopter and greeting senior commanders in the footage broadcast on state television.

The Kremlin said Putin met troops at a command post in the southern Kherson region in his second visit to occupied Ukraine this year.

He then travelled to the headquarters of the Russian National Guard in eastern Luhansk to hear reports from his military leaders.

Both are areas which the Russian Federation claims to have annexed.

RUSSIAN PRESIDENTIAL PRESS OFFIC

Russian troops retreated from the city of Kherson last November and have been reinforcing their positions on the opposite bank of the Dnipro river in anticipation of a Ukrainian counteroffensive.

It comes as meeting of Group of Seven foreign ministers in Japan condemned Putins plan to station shorter-range, tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus, a Moscow ally which borders Ukraine.

It was the first time Russia has said it will station nuclear weapons on the territory of another country since the end of the Cold War three decades ago.

In a joint statement, foreign ministers from Britain, the United States, Japan, Germany, France, Italy and Canada, said: Russias irresponsible nuclear rhetoric and its threat to deploy nuclear weapons in Belarus are unacceptable.

Any use of chemical, biological or nuclear weapons by Russia would be met with severe consequences, they said.

The countries have all imposed economic sanctions on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine. Moscow claims to have have control of four Ukrainian regions but its forces are locked in a grinding artillery battle in the eastern Donbas.

Heavy losses have been experienced by both sides since Putin triggered the deadliest European conflict since World War Two last February.

His army is now stepping up air strikes in Bakhmut, the commander of Ukraines ground forces said today.

Fighting in and around the eastern Ukrainian city has been the focus of the war for months and the exact sequencing of any major drawdown of forces has become a critical question for both sides, British defence chiefs believe.

In its latest intelligence update the Ministry of Defence said Ukraine wants to free-up an offensive force while Russia likely aspires to regenerate an operational reserve.

It added that heavy fighting has continued along the Donbas front line and was a realistic possibility that Russia has reduced troop numbers and is decreasing offensive action around Donetsk city to divert resources towards the Bakhmut region .

In Bakhmut itself, Russian forces continue to make creeping advances, the MoD added.

It comes amid reports that Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich will appeal against his arrest and detention in Moscow on charges of espionage today.

According to a public Russian judicial document, seen by Reuters, a Russian court will today hear a complaint filed by Mr Gershkovich against the decision to keep him in custody in Lefortovo prison.

The hearing is believed to be procedural and will cover how Mr Gershkovich should be detained while he awaits trial, not the substance of the charges against him.
A Wall Street Journal reporter held in a former KGB prison in Russia on espionage charges has had his appeal against detention refused by a Moscow court.

Evan Gershkovich was arrested at a restaurant on March 30 by Russias Federal Security Service (FSB), which said it had opened a case against him for collecting what it said were state secrets about a military industrial complex.

Mr Gershkovich - the first US journalist detained in Russia on espionage charges since the end of the Cold War - has denied he was involved in espionage, as have Washington and the WSJ.

On Tuesday, Mr Gershkovich appeared at Moscow City Court, which refused his appeal against pre-trial detention at the citys Lefortovo prison. The reporter has been ordered to be held at least until May 29 on espionage charges.

Mr Gershkovich had his appeal against pre-trial detention refused on Tuesday / REUTERS

The court documents gave nothing more than basic details about the case. The court said it was forbidden to publish some documents.

A Russian lawyer for Mr Gershkovich did not respond to Reuters for a request for comment.

Mr Gershkovich, the American son of Soviet-born Jews who fled to the West in 1979, was detained by the FSB on March 29 shortly after he arrived at a steakhouse in Yekaterinburg during his second trip to the Urals in a month.

He was moved to the Lefortovo prison, which in Soviet times was run by the KGB but is now operated by the Federal Penitentiary Service. Traditionally it has been used to hold those suspected by the FSB of spying and other grave crimes.

The Kremlin has said Mr Gershkovich was carrying out espionage under the cover of journalism. Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has told the United States that Mr Gershkovich was caught red-handed while trying to obtain secrets.

US ambassador to Russia, Lynne Tracy, said on Monday she had made her first visit to Mr Gershkovich.

He feels well and is holding up. We reiterate our call for Evans immediate release, Ms Tracy said in a statement.

In Washington, the White House said it hopes to get regular consular access to Mr Gershkovich.

It was good to get to see him today and again we want to make sure we can continue to do that, White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said.

The United States last week designated Mr Gershkovich as wrongfully detained, in effect saying that the spy charges were bogus and the case was political.

The US hostage envoy has pledged to do whatever it takes to bring home both Mr Gershkovich and Paul Whelan, an American ex-Marine who was convicted of espionage in 2020 and has also been designated by Washington as wrongfully detained.

The WSJ did not respond on Monday to Reuters to a request for comment.
F inding the right dress for race day is no mean feat.

Theres a lot to think about. First of all, you need to adere to the rules of the enclosure. For dresses, this usually means knee length or longer, with nothing strapless - which includes bardot and one shoulder silhouettes - and if shoulder straps are involved, they should be at least an inch across.

Next, its time to think about aesthetics. It needs to be in the realms of the traditional race day dress, so were talking summery colours and lightweight fabrics, but without being too stuffy. This can be achieved through a contemporary print, an of-the-moment cut or even stylish accessories.

When it comes to textiles, if youre willing to shell out the big bucks, its silk-cotton blends that should be on your wishlist - with viscose as a great second best. Its breathable but depending on the colour, may show sweat patches. Then, there are great polyester options available, too, which offer a similar floaty look but without the ultra-luxe feel.

From independent brands to luxury fashion houses, with high street labels and cult favourites somewhere in between, the options available on the market are far ranging and ever growing. Thats why weve put together this handy edit, to save you hours of endless scrolling across countless websites ahead of your race day events.

Now, all you need is your hat.

Keep scrolling for the best.
N o spirit starts debates quite like bourbon.

This American whiskey is well-loved for its rich, smoky, slightly sweet flavours but, with such a variety of bottles available, is often the starting point for heated arguments as to which really is the best bourbon.

Bourbon must be made in the United States and meet specific requirements to be called bourbon, including a mash bill of at least 51 per cent corn (the remainder made up from rye, wheat or barley) and two years or more spent ageing in new, charred oak barrels.

Other than those key essentials, bourbon varies hugely with bottles to suit all tastes and budgets. Whiskey snobs might tell you that you can't get a good bottle of bourbon for less than 50, but they'd be wrong. Some of the best bourbons out there definitely come in at a lower price point, ensuring you're free to sip away on a casual Sunday rather than waiting for that extra special occasion to bring out your treasured bottle.

While the best bourbon comes down to personal preference, there are a few things you can keep in mind when choosing the next bottle for your bar cart.

While the minimum is two years to be an 'official' bourbon, you'll find most budget friendly bottles sit around the five year mark. The age of the bourbon can affect its flavor profile, with older bourbons typically smoother and offering a more complex variety of flavours. If you're hunting for the best of the best, look for bourbons with an age of 20 or even 30 years - but expect to pay up accordingly.

It's also worth paying attention to the strength of your next bottle of bourbon. Bourbons can range from 80 proof (40 per cent ABV) to over 130 proof (65 per cent ABV). As you may have guessed, a higher proof means a more intense sipping experience. If you're entering the world of bourbon, you'll likely prefer the 'weaker' bottles to begin with.

Weve rounded up all of the best bourbons.

Elijah Craig Small Batch The Whisky Exchange Elijah Craig Small Batch was awarded the title of Worlds Best Bourbon by Whisky Magazine in 2018 and has been a popular choice ever since. A great bourbon for those days when you want something a little special, this bottle brings together a sipping experience thats rich, sweet, smoky and smooth with the perfect combination of flavour and complexity. One of the best whiskeys for those who like to pay special attention to the little details, its nose is filled with notes of caramel, brown sugar, vanilla and spice, while its palate is filled with orange zest, toasted oak, cinnamon and leather. Buy now  45.75 , The Whisky Exchange {{#hasItems}} Price comparison {{/hasItems}} {{#items}} {{ merchant }} {{ price }} Buy now {{/items}} {{#hasItems}} {{/hasItems}} Evan Williams Extra Aged The Whisky Exchange Evan Williams Extra Aged has a rich and full-bodied flavour that sets it apart from other bourbons. This budget friendly whiskey is crafted using the brands signature distilling process, which uses barreled-aged bourbon and charred oak barrels in a smooth and mellow sip with rich caramel, butterscotch, spice, dried fruit and robust oak flavours. Its extra ageing process adds even more depth, easily convincing you that this whisky is worth far more than its price tag suggests. Buy now  28.95 , The Whisky Exchange {{#hasItems}} Price comparison {{/hasItems}} {{#items}} {{ merchant }} {{ price }} Buy now {{/items}} {{#hasItems}} {{/hasItems}} Angel's Envy Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Amazon Angels Envy Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is carefully crafted using a unique finishing process and is aged in specially-selected, charred oak barrels for up to six years before being transferred to a port wine cask for an additional three to six months. The result? An added depth and complexity of flavours that youll struggle to find in many other bottles of a similar price point. Expect a long, smooth finish with notes of caramel, vanilla and fruit. Buy now  57 , Amazon {{#hasItems}} Price comparison {{/hasItems}} {{#items}} {{ merchant }} {{ price }} Buy now {{/items}} {{#hasItems}} {{/hasItems}} Jim Beam White Bourbon 70Cl Bottle Tesco Jim Beam White Bourbon is a staple choice that youll never struggle to find across the world. Another budget friendly option, this delicious bourbon whisky has a unique blend of corn, rye and barley, which creates a balanced flavour with notes of caramel, oak and vanilla. During its four years in new charred white oak barrels, this whiskey takes on more complexity as it slowly matures while absorbing the flavours and aromas of the wood. While its a cheaper bottle than most, its definitely still a cheerful one. Buy now  15 , Tesco {{#hasItems}} Price comparison {{/hasItems}} {{#items}} {{ merchant }} {{ price }} Buy now {{/items}} {{#hasItems}} {{/hasItems}} Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Barrel Finish Select Waitrose Its hard to beat Woodford Reserve if youre looking for a great all-rounder that never disappoints. While a little more expensive, this is a bottle that fits in smoothly with all kinds of drinking experiences, whether thats cocktails with friends or the quintessential sipping by the fireplace. This whiskey is aged first in a charred white oak barrel and then transferred to a second heavily toasted barrel. This extra-special process offers up more complexity, richness and sweetness than the traditional whiskey ageing process. Its notes of cocoa, vanilla, spices, and dried fruit make each sip of this delicious whiskey truly special. Buy now  52 , Waitrose {{#hasItems}} Price comparison {{/hasItems}} {{#items}} {{ merchant }} {{ price }} Buy now {{/items}} {{#hasItems}} {{/hasItems}} Eagle Rare 10 Year Old Bourbon Whiskey Tesco A 10 year old bourbon is a great choice if youre looking for something a little fancier but dont want to spend a fortune. Eagle Rare 10 Year Old Bourbon Whiskey is one of the best handcrafted bourbons and is released in small batches for a refined sipping experience. Another versatile choice thats easy to find no matter where youre drinking, Eagle Rare 10 Year Old Bourbon Whiskey has notes of toasted oak, spices and toffee and is a top choice for all kinds of whiskey drinkers. Buy now  35 , Tesco {{#hasItems}} Price comparison {{/hasItems}} {{#items}} {{ merchant }} {{ price }} Buy now {{/items}} {{#hasItems}} {{/hasItems}} Buffalo Trace Bourbon Whiskey Tesco Buffalo Trace Bourbon Whiskey hails from the oldest continuously operating distillery in the United States, making it a historical landmark as well as a delicious bottle to keep stored away. This whiskey is made from a mash bill of corn, rye and malted barley and, when combined with its unique ageing method, results in the distinctive range of flavours and aromas that give this bourbon its special character. If youre a fan of keeping things traditional, this is a great choice that wont set you back too much, either. Buy now  24 , Tesco {{#hasItems}} Price comparison {{/hasItems}} {{#items}} {{ merchant }} {{ price }} Buy now {{/items}} {{#hasItems}} {{/hasItems}} Four Roses Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Amazon Four Roses Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a premium bourbon whiskey crafted from a single barrel. A safe choice even if youre just stepping into the world of whiskey, this bottle has won numerous awards over the years, including a Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2013 and several International Spirit Awards. While its one of the stronger bottles around, it doesnt compromise on taste, with bold flavours of rich caramel and vanilla, balanced by spices, dried fruit and a hint of cocoa. Buy now  44.95 , Amazon {{#hasItems}} Price comparison {{/hasItems}} {{#items}} {{ merchant }} {{ price }} Buy now {{/items}} {{#hasItems}} {{/hasItems}} Blanton's Bourbon Original Whisky Amazon Blantons is an iconic single-barrel bourbon whiskey that hails from Buffalo Trace Distillery in Kentucky. With its deep mahogany colour and intense aroma, this is a bourbon for whiskey lovers who appreciate the good stuff. Blantons is also known as one of the first bourbons to be bottled at cask strength, which means no water or extra alcohol is added after bottling. The one to choose when youre looking to go all out on a special occasion, this award-winning whiskey offers a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg and apricot with a sprinkle of brown sugar. Buy now  109.99 , Amazon {{#hasItems}} Price comparison {{/hasItems}} {{#items}} {{ merchant }} {{ price }} Buy now {{/items}} {{#hasItems}} {{/hasItems}} Booker's Bourbon Waitrose Bookers Bourbon is one of the most highly-regarded and sought-after bourbons on the market. So, if youre blind buying and want something thats objectively delicious, this is the bottle to choose. A versatile sip thats delicious both neat or on ice, Bookers Bourbon is also excellent when used as a base for cocktails. This bourbon is made from a special blend of grain recipes and is bottled at its natural proof without any dilution. While it can be a little more tricky to source, its well worth the effort. Buy now  85 , Waitrose {{#hasItems}} Price comparison {{/hasItems}} {{#items}} {{ merchant }} {{ price }} Buy now {{/items}} {{#hasItems}} {{/hasItems}}
H ave you ever woken up in the morning, only to dread spending another two minutes brushing your teeth with the same flavour that youve tasted countless times before?

Whether your go-to is Colgate, Aquafresh or Sensodyne, its time to switch up your routine by delving into the oral-hygiene world that exists beyond the supermarket shelves - and give your mouth the flavour sensation it deserves.

Treat this as the dental Michelin Guide - a list of five star formulas that will elevate every minute you spend brushing your teeth. Even better, some provide pearly-white goodness with whitening credentials too.

From blends that act as an eau de toilette for the mouth, infused with the likes of verbena and bergamot, to flavours designed for those with a sweet tooth, including peach iced tea and watermelon, theres a course for everyone on this toothpaste tasting menu.

Some would even give the fanciful world of Willy Wonka a run for its money. Heritage toothpaste specialist Marvis offer everything from Matcha Tea to Black Forest, whilst you can find an almond-flavoured toothpaste jelly in Lush - what will they think of next?

So, without further ado, keep scrolling to find out what we thought of the unique creations. Were sure youll be swapping the tedious, repetitive world of peppermint with unique blends in an instant.
A South Korean court on Monday began hearing a civil suit by former South Korean prisoners of war against North Korean leader Kim Jong-un to compensate them for decades of hard labor.

Former South Korean POW Kim Sung-tae (91) and four other plaintiffs filed the lawsuit at Seoul Central District Court in September 2020 demanding W21 million in compensation per victim for the "physical and mental damage" they suffered until they escaped to South Korea (US$1=W1,311).
D avid Gillespie is set to return to EastEnders to reprise his original role more than 30 years since he first set foot in Albert Square.

The actor first appeared in the BBC soap opera in 1987 as Duncan Boyd, the curate of the local church and soon became involved with one of the shows much-loved characters Sharon Watts.

They connected as she sought comfort at his church in an attempt to escape from her turbulent home life caused by rowing parents  and they were later engaged until Sharon, played by Letitia Dean, called off the marriage when Duncan was offered a new job at a parish in Wiltshire.

Later this month, he is to return to Walford for a short stint to officiate Albies christening, the BBC has announced.

However, he will be shocked when he learns that his former partner Sharon is the mother of the young boy.

Although Duncans time in Walford is short-lived, his arrival is sure to ruffle feathers as his past romantic history with Sharon comes to light, the broadcaster has said.

Reflecting on his return, Gillespie said: I have to say what a pleasure it was being back in EastEnders reviving my role as Duncan after over 30 years of leaving the show  a little strange at first but nice strange.

The only people I knew were my old mates Letitia and Gillian but I was made to feel instantly at home by such a wonderful cast and great crew  lots of new friends. Fabulous.

Chris Clenshaw, the shows executive producer, added: Its wonderful to welcome David back to the role of Duncan Boyd.

Although we havent seen Duncan for over three decades, his character shares a romantic history with one of the shows iconic matriarchs, Sharon.

Were delighted to have him back for a short while as he unknowingly stirs up drama between the happy couple.
J amie Foxx has remained in hospital for almost a week after he was admitted due to a medical complication while filming in Atlanta, according to a new report.

People have reported that the Oscar winner, 55, was staying in a Georgia health facility while undergoing a series of medical tests, despite a source claiming on Friday that he was improving.

The Hollywood star, known for films including Django, Collateral and Ray, was treated with great care following the unspecified incident last Tuesday while filming scenes for a new action Netflix movie he is making with Cameron Diaz and Glenn Close.

Sharing news about his health on social media, his daughter Corinne Foxx said the family was grateful for fans support and asked for privacy.

We wanted to share that my father, Jamie Foxx, experienced a medical complication yesterday, she wrote in a post on Instagram.

Luckily, due to quick action and great care, he is already on his way to recovery.

We know how beloved he is and appreciate your prayers. The family asks for privacy during this time. Much love, The Foxx Family.

Ms Foxx did not share any further details of what had occurred and no details since about his condition have been shared.

Netflix flick, Back in Action, was tipped to be Diazs movie comeback but there is yet to be word on when her co-star will make his return to set. Foxx is said to have coaxed the Charlies Angels star out of retirement one last time.

The Standard has contacted Jamie Foxxs rep for comment.
V ideo footage showing Jeremy Renner being helped by emergency services after he was crushed in a horror snowplough accident has emerged online.

The Marvel actor, 52, suffered 35 broken bones, a collapsed lung and a punctured liver after the 14,330-pound machine rolled over him as he was clearing his driveway on New Years Day.

Captured on police bodycam, the footage shows Renner on the ground against the backdrop of snowcapped mountains near Lake Tahoe, Nevada.

Police, firefighters and paramedics can be seen scrambling to the scene, with a helicopter visible which later airlifted the Mayor of Kingstown star to hospital.

Emergency services can be seen rushing to help Jeremy Renner in the police released bodycam footage / Courtesy Washoe County Sheriff's Office

The Hollywood A Lister is lucky to be alive after sustaining a catastrophic catalogue of injuries while attempting to stop his runaway snow plough from driving into his nephew.

He got out to tell me something and thats when it started coming at me, Renners nephew Alexander Fries can be heard explaining to the officers.

Thats when it was coming at me full force. He tried to jump on it and it took him under. Right where the blood is at is right where it happened.

Renner recently sat down for a tell-all interview with Diane Sawyer which aired in the US on TV network ABC and he admitted that he wrote a goodbye note to his family on his phone as he lay waiting for help, convinced that he was going to die.

Jeremy Renner pictured in hospital following his accident / via REUTERS

He also recounted how he had remained awake throughout the horrifying ordeal and can remember the searing pain.
A fter more than 20 years since the original film was released, Lilo & Stitch is being reimagined for Disney+.

The news of a remake of the 2002 American animated science fiction comedy-drama film was announced nearly five years ago.

With Dean Fleischer Camp as the director, Disney is expected to use technology similar to 2019's The Lion King to change the appearance of the genetically altered "earth dog" (known as Stitch) using computer graphics.

What is currently known about the new Lilo & Stitch movie? Heres what we know.

Who is in the Lilo & Stitch live-action cast?

Maia Kealoha, six, a newcomer to the industry, will portray the main character Lilo Pelekai.

The original film followed the fortunes of the Hawaiian girl, who was raised by her older sister Nani after their parents death.

Chris Sanders, who has contributed to every Lilo & Stitch film so far, will once more provide the voice of the second titular character, Stitch.

Sydney Agudong, 22, who has been in numerous small television productions since 2021, will play Lilo's sister, Nani. This role will mark her big-screen debut.

The Hollywood Reporter says Kahiau Machado will play Nanis friend David Kawena.

The Hangover franchise's Zach Galifianakis and No Time To Die's Billy Magnussen are also involved in the project, although their exact roles arent yet known.

When is the new Lilo & Stitch out?

A official release date has not yet been revealed. However, IMDb predicts the film will be out in 2024.

The live-action version will be set in Hawaii like the original.

The film follows Lilo and Stitch as they form an unbreakable relationship while being pursued by social workers and government agents.

Did you know this about Lilo & Stitch?

Upon graduating from the California Institute of Arts, Sanders used the idea he had for an unsuccessful children's book pitch to create the Stitch character.

A few years later, he worked for Disney as a storyboard artist on The Beauty and the Beast, The Lion King, and Mulan.

He eventually submitted the idea of Stitch at a Disney story retreat, and the company teamed him up with Dean DeBlois for the project. The pair are also the brains behind the How to Train Your Dragon animated franchise.

The original Lilo & Stitchs success led to a franchise that includes three direct-to-video sequels, beginning with Stitch! The Movie, and three television series. These included the sequel series Lilo & Stitch: The Series and spin-offs Stitch! and Stitch & Ai.
K anye Wests bid to become President of the United States of America in the upcoming 2024 election is set to be the focus of a new two-part BBC documentary.

Due to air later this year under the working title We Need To Talk About Kanye, it will follow the rapper and father-of-fours decision to run for office at a time when his behaviour sparked outrage among the public.

The film will be fronted by investigative journalist Mobeen Azhar, who will look to uncover how West  who legally changed his name to Ye in 2021  became the most famous and creatively successful artists of his generation, while also facing condemnation and notoriety.

Mobeen recently worked on the critically acclaimed film The Battle for Britney, which came after pop stars Britney Spears conservatorship battle.

We Need To Talk About Kanye is due to air later this year on BBC Two, with Wests complicated mind further explored in an eight-part podcast series, according to its producer Jeremy Lee.

Donald Trump and musician Kanye West pose for media at Trump Tower, Manhattan in 2016 / REUTERS

Speaking to Variety, Lee teased that the documentary will give viewers unique access to members of Yes inner circle but that notorious control freak West will have no editorial control over the final product.

Going on to explain the driving force behind the project, he said: Yes recent behavior has prompted both condemnation and a re-evaluation of his place in popular culture.

With recent events as a starting point, the documentary and accompanying eight-part podcast series explore Yes two decades in the public eye amid a rumoured YE2024 election campaign, Lee said.

It will be underpinned with world-class journalism and unique access to members of Yes inner circle, this is a revelation-driven film which sheds new light on recent events.

Adding: Ye is aware of but has no editorial control over the documentary.
T he Trades Union Congress (TUC) has said that the Governments planned approach to the regulation of artificial intelligence (AI) will dilute existing protections. The TUC, a federation of trade unions in England and Wales, also called for human review of workplace decisions reached via algorithm.

Last months white paper , which proposed that the regulation of AI should be spread across existing bodies rather than have a new watchdog, was vague and offered flimsy guidance, the TUC said . With no additional capacity or resource to cope with rising demand, there are also questions about how effective regulation can be, it argued.

Speaking to the BBC , Mary Towers  an employment rights policy officer for the TUC  said that they had already found AI tools undertaking traditionally human tasks across recruitment, management and even HR functions such as disciplinary measures and firings.

"We found evidence of AI-powered tools being used in all the different ways in which you would expect a human manager to carry out functions at work," she said.

AI tools that track worker performance and time usage are especially problematic, if automated decisions are made on who to let go, the TUC says. AI could, it argues, set unrealistic targets that then result in workers being put in dangerous situations that impact negatively on their both physical health and mental well-being.

To defend workers rights from the challenges of AI, the TUC believes firms should be obliged to reveal how AI is being used. It says any decisions made via such means should be subject to human review to ensure that employees can challenge decisions made by an algorithm.

A Government spokesperson told the BBC that the TUCs critique of its white paper was wrong.

AI is set to drive growth and create new highly-paid jobs throughout the UK, while allowing us to carry out our existing jobs more efficiently and safely, the spokesperson said.

"That is why we are working with businesses and regulators to ensure AI is used safely and responsibility in business settings."
Rescued migrants wait to disembark in Marsaxlokk, Malta, on April 17, 2023. Around 60 migrants were taken to Malta on Monday evening after being rescued from rough seas as they attempted to cross to Europe from Libya. (Photo by Jonathan Borg/Xinhua)

VALLETTA, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Around 60 migrants were taken to Malta on Monday evening after being rescued from rough seas as they attempted to cross to Europe from Libya.

Two groups of people were saved by merchant vessels in Malta's search and rescue zone. The rescue was carried out on the instructions of the Maltese authorities, after the migrants reported being in distress.

The two groups were brought to Marsaxlokk, south of the island, by the Armed Forces of Malta.

They were given foil blankets to prevent hypothermia, after spending several days at sea. The wind had picked up over the weekend, making their voyage especially difficult.

The migrants, many of whom barefoot, were taken to Detention Services vans on arrival. Their nationalities are not yet known.

On Sunday, the NGO Alarm Phone accused the Maltese authorities of refusing to rescue the groups despite bad weather.

The following day, the NGO announced that the group had been rescued on orders from the Maltese authorities.

However, the latter did not issue an official statement on the rescue.

This was the first arrival of migrants in several months. Over 26,000 people have died or gone missing while crossing the Mediterranean since 2014, the United Nations human rights office said on April 13. 

Rescued migrants wait to disembark in Marsaxlokk, Malta, on April 17, 2023. Around 60 migrants were taken to Malta on Monday evening after being rescued from rough seas as they attempted to cross to Europe from Libya. (Photo by Jonathan Borg/Xinhua)

A rescued migrant disembarks in Marsaxlokk, Malta, on April 17, 2023. Around 60 migrants were taken to Malta on Monday evening after being rescued from rough seas as they attempted to cross to Europe from Libya. (Photo by Jonathan Borg/Xinhua)

Rescued migrants wait in line after disembarkation in Marsaxlokk, Malta, on April 17, 2023. Around 60 migrants were taken to Malta on Monday evening after being rescued from rough seas as they attempted to cross to Europe from Libya. (Photo by Jonathan Borg/Xinhua)

Rescued migrants wait to disembark in Marsaxlokk, Malta, on April 17, 2023. Around 60 migrants were taken to Malta on Monday evening after being rescued from rough seas as they attempted to cross to Europe from Libya. (Photo by Jonathan Borg/Xinhua)

A staff member puts a slip of paper with a registration number on the wrist of a rescued migrant in Marsaxlokk, Malta, on April 17, 2023. Around 60 migrants were taken to Malta on Monday evening after being rescued from rough seas as they attempted to cross to Europe from Libya. (Photo by Jonathan Borg/Xinhua)

A staff member takes photos of a rescued migrant holding a piece of paper bearing a registration number in Marsaxlokk, Malta, on April 17, 2023. Around 60 migrants were taken to Malta on Monday evening after being rescued from rough seas as they attempted to cross to Europe from Libya. (Photo by Jonathan Borg/Xinhua)

Rescued migrants hold pieces of paper bearing registration numbers in Marsaxlokk, Malta, on April 17, 2023. Around 60 migrants were taken to Malta on Monday evening after being rescued from rough seas as they attempted to cross to Europe from Libya. (Photo by Jonathan Borg/Xinhua)

An Armed Forces of Malta's patrol boat carrying rescued migrants arrives in Marsaxlokk, Malta, on April 17, 2023. Around 60 migrants were taken to Malta on Monday evening after being rescued from rough seas as they attempted to cross to Europe from Libya. (Photo by Jonathan Borg/Xinhua)

An Armed Forces of Malta's patrol boat carrying rescued migrants arrives in Marsaxlokk, Malta, on April 17, 2023. Around 60 migrants were taken to Malta on Monday evening after being rescued from rough seas as they attempted to cross to Europe from Libya. (Photo by Jonathan Borg/Xinhua)
Scammers who handed out drug-laced soft drinks outside crammers in Daechi-dong in southern Seoul had planned the crime for at least six months, police said Monday.

Each bottle contained 3.3 times more methamphetamines than a typical single dose.

According to the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency, a total of 10 suspects have now been implicated in the scam and seven were arrested. A red notice has been issued by Interpol for two members of a phishing ring and one associate of a drug-smuggling gang.

Police said one of the suspects went to China late last year to plan the crime and formed the team in October last year.
People bang pots and pans behind burning palettes while French President Emmanuel Macron seeks to diffuse tensions in a televised address to the nation, Monday, April 17, 2023 in Bayonne, southwestern France.

French President Emmanuel Macron said Monday that he heard peoples anger over raising the retirement age from 62 to 64, but insisted that it was needed to keep the pension system afloat as the population ages.

In many cities, opponents to the pension law took to the streets to bang pots and pans during Macrons televised address to the nation, with the rallying cry: Macron wont listen to us? We wont listen to him!

In Paris, the gatherings quickly turned into spontaneous demonstrations in several neighborhoods, with some people setting fire to trash cans as police attempted to disperse the crowd. Hundreds of people also started marching in the western cities of Rennes and Nantes.

In many other places across France, the protests remained peaceful, with people chanting and dancing in front of city halls to the sound of pots and pans used as drums. Many are rejecting the changes as unfair, arguing the government could have raised taxes on the wealthy or employers instead.

In his speech, Macron said this changes were needed to guarantee everyones pension, after he enacted the law on Saturday. They represent an effort, thats true.

Gradually working more means also producing more wealth for our whole country, he added.

A woman bangs a pan with a sticker caricaturing Emmanuel Macron, after French President Emmanuel Macron tried to diffuse tensions in a televised address to the nation, Monday, April 17, 2023. thibault camus (AP)

Macron stressed that no consensus has been found with unions and other political parties. Has this reform been accepted? Obviously, no, he admitted.

The evening address kicks off a likely arduous battle for the French president, who is trying to repair the damage done to his public image and politics by forcing the pension plan through parliament last month.

Macron acknowledged anger over increasing prices and jobs that dont allow too many French people to live well.

Praising the calm and respectful manner with which most people demonstrated, he said nobody, and especially not me, can remain deaf to this demand for social justice and for our democratic life to be renovated.

He said the door remains open for unions, which have already declined an invitation to meet with him on Tuesday.

He announced negotiations in the coming months about key issues like improving employees income, pushing professional careers forward, better sharing wealth and improving working conditions, including for older workers.

Macron hopes his proposals will help the country move away from the period of protests and strikes over the retirement age that threatens the ambitions of his remaining four years in power.

Opponents gatherings have been banned by authorities in the cities of Dijon and Marseille, with local prefectures arguing there is a risk of public disorder.

Earlier in Marseille, police arrested 13 people after gas and power meters were strewn outside a government building in an unusual trade union demonstration against pension changes. Police police said there was a loud blast as the meters were being dumped and that an officer on guard was hit by flying debris.

Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne said Saturday that the government would move ahead with more reforms now that the pension law has been enacted. In the coming weeks and months ... we are determined to accelerate, she told the national council of Macrons Renaissance party.

Macron notably committed to bring the unemployment rate down to around 5%. France unemployment rate recently reached 7.2%, its lowest rate since 2008.

Weakened in parliament, where his centrist alliance lost its absolute majority in legislative elections last year, Macrons government needs to get support from lawmakers from diverse political forces to push ahead with his program. Thats likely to be an uphill task in the uproarious climate of protest sparked by his retirement changes that pick at Frances cherished social safety net.

Borne said Saturday she was convinced it was still possible to pass bills at parliament by negotiating with lawmakers from the left and the right on a case by case basis.

Labor unions that have been at the forefront of protests, mobilizing millions of marchers in 12 days of nationwide demonstrations and strikes since January, are vowing to fight on. They called for another mass protest on May 1, which is International Workers Day.

The pension changes were enacted into law Saturday, the day after the countrys constitutional body rejected some parts of the legislation but approved the higher minimum retirement age.

That key change  central to Macrons plan and the focus of opponents protests  was intended to be a showcase measure of Macrons second term. But it has come at significant cost to the French president: opinion polls show his popularity has plunged to its lowest level in four years.

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Kenney Jessop finds the beauty in scrap wood, old mirrors, tiles and other unwanted decor and breathes new life into them.

Using a laser, Jessop takes these unwanted pieces and prints images onto them to make one-of-a-kind home decor, cutting boards and other kinds of art. He creates everything from old historical photos including the former Crystal Beach Amusement Park, popular local sites, cottages, memorials, animals, and even funny sayings.

Just as Jessop gives these items a second chance, spending his time making them, and starting his own business, Casa Kacey Wood Design, has helped him change his own life.

I started this business after I got sober, Jessop explained, and added that he recently celebrated the first anniversary of the business in March.

Jessop previously worked in a bar, and he knew he needed to make a change when he woke up in jail one morning.

When I woke up, my first thought was that I wanted to kill myself. I just blew my life up. But hearing my mothers voice, I knew I wanted to live, he said.

Jessop recalled his mother bailed him out of jail, and he spent the next few weeks with her while he attended sobriety meetings.

He also started gathering the materials he needed to start his new business.

These days, Jessop spends his time searching at second-hand stores, trading with other people and even looking online for items that would have otherwise ended up in the garbage and finds inspiration to remake them into something new.

When I got started doing this, something told me I was on the right path and Im happy that I am able to do something I love and make a business out of it.

What Jessop enjoys the most about his business is the effect it has on the people he meets.

I love to make people laugh. Even if a person comes to a market and doesnt buy anything from me but comes to my booth and reads a funny saying on a cutting board I made and chuckles, which makes my day, he said.

The Crystal Beach resident said he got his start by selling his creations at Ridgeway Summer Fest, where he sold-out of his work after a couple of hours.

He later began setting up a display on his front lawn on Thursday evenings, at the same time the weekly Supper Markets held at Waterfront Park just across the street.

From there, Jessop has brought his business to other markets, including the Port Colborne Farmers Market. He also sells his work on Sundays at the Niagara Flea Market, at 46 Turner Crescent St. in St. Catharines.

When asked about the name for his business, Jessop explained his canine companion, Kasey, an old golden Labrador, is his best friend and just like his new business, the canine companion also keeps him going.

She saved my life  literally, Jessop said.

In 2019, Kenney got hit by a massive wave from an undertow that dragged him deeper into the water. Kenny recalled grabbing onto Kasey, who was wearing a canine life-jacket, and helped guide him to shore.

Kenney initially bought the life-jacket because Kasey was getting older and was having trouble swimming in the water.

He proudly keeps a newspaper clipping from 2021, that reports about Kasey being inducted into the Purina Animal Hall of Fame for her bravery.

As for where hed like to see his business go, Kenney said he hopes he can continue to grow it.

Id like to get a bigger place with a garage to expand the business, he said.

For more information about custom orders and upcoming events, visit the Casa Kacey Wood Design Facebook page.

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Christopher Penny, manager of hydrogen products for Atura Power which plans to break ground on construction of its new Niagara Hydrogen Centre in Niagara Falls this summer, says hydrogen can play a role in de-carbonizing Ontarios energy sector because its clean burning.







Hydrogen has been fighting a public relations problem since way back in 1937 when the hydrogen-filled Hindenburg zeppelin famously went up in a fiery inferno, but Christopher Penny thinks the time has come for the lightweight gas to become a force to be reckoned with in the Ontario economy.

Penny foresees hydrogen being one way that we can help to reduce harmful greenhouse gases that are pushing this planet into very scary global warming territory.

Penny is manager of hydrogen products for Atura Power, a subsidiary of Ontario Power Generation that by this summer is expected to break ground on the new Niagara Hydrogen Centre at OPGs Sir Adam Beck generation station on the Niagara River in Niagara Falls.

The plant will use electricity from the hydro station and a municipal water supply to split water into two gas streams through electrolysis: hydrogen, which will be captured for consumption as a fuel, and oxygen, a harmless gas.

As Niagara marks Earth Day this week, Penny and advocates of hydrogen see it as a promising fuel source that will benefit Mother Nature due to the fact burning it doesnt produce nasty greenhouse gases.

(The) Hindenburg is a common theme, for sure, Penny conceded. But he says hydrogen is in many ways safer than other fuels because its 14 times lighter than air so in the event of a leak it simply dissipates into the atmosphere whereas liquid fuels such as gasoline pool and can explode.

In addition to producing green hydrogen, Atura also plans to consume it by mixing it with natural gas at its power generating plants to dramatically cut emissions equalling up to taking 4,000 cars off the road, said Penny.

Hes hoping that gets other industrial users and companies in transportation  which account for a huge chunk of greenhouse gases  to see hydrogens practicality compared to other green energy sources as wind and solar power that are more intermittent, and dirty fuels such as diesel.

Well showcase the opportunity by consuming it at our own plants, said Penny.

Last year, Atura announced at the new Niagara Parks Power Station attraction that it had selected Niagara Falls as its first Ontario site for a large-scale hydrogen production plant.

Nicole Butcher, chief operating officer at OPG and board chair for Atura Power, said at the announcement that it makes sense for Niagara Falls to be home to Ontarios biggest green hydrogen producing facility, given it was the cradle of Ontarios clean hydro system a century ago.

We have great potential: the potential to build a low-carbon hydrogen economy that creates local jobs, attracts investments and reduces greenhouse gas emissions, she said.

Ontario Energy Minister Todd Smith told the gathering that industries of the future are looking for clean and affordable energy in Ontario.

This work is already paying off, he said. Were rebuilding our manufacturing sector after years of watching jobs leave the province.

By 2050, low-carbon hydrogen could support 100,000 jobs in Ontario by decarbonizing the energy sector, Smith said.

Regional Chair Jim Bradley, a former Ontario environment minister, said its false that a thriving economy must come at the expense of the environment.

We see (this) as an economic development opportunity in Niagara, he said. We have it as a goal here in Niagara to become the green energy capital of Canada.

In April, the Hamilton-Oshawa Port Authority entered into an agreement with Atura to provide green hydrogen from its Niagara Falls facility. The authority said it will be able to store and distribute the gas for industrial transportation purposes as adoption of the gas increases.

The new Atura facility is expected to be operating by the second half of 2024.

STORY BEHIND THE STORY: With the Hamilton-Oshawa Port Authority entering into an agreement to have Atura Power supply it with hydrogen from its new Niagara Falls facility, This Week looked at the possible impacts of that facility.

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Double-duty councillors

Re: Bradley unveils new initiatives in state of the Region address, April 12

It was encouraging to see Chair Jim Bradley and regional council establish the shared services office in a proactive move. The Bill 39 facilitator has not been appointed yet for Niagara or the other two-tier regions.

Shared services are a good idea, shared councillors is also a good idea. Ask Oakville or Burlington or Oshawa and Pickering.

Few services are more important than the service of the elected councillor. A councillor that serves locally and the Region makes good sense as a shared service. Niagara Falls thought so last term, but the Region said no.

It is encouraging to think sewer and water, economic development and fire services could be considered. Double duty directly elected city/regional councillors would makes citizen representation a helpful shared service that should also be considered.

Bruce Timms

St. Catharines

Focus on downtown

On behalf of downtown business and property owners, the Welland Downtown BIAs Board of Directors is excited to hear more about the mayors and city councils focus on the downtown over the next four years.

We are eager to be part of short- and long-term planning as new ideas come to life. It is our hope all residents and businesses can contribute to this vision. The potential has never been greater and now is the time to act on opportunities in downtown Welland.

Kelly Jones

Chair, Welland Downtown BIA

Fords problem

According to the latest Angus Reid polls, the Doug Ford Progressive Conservatives may have a problem. Only 38 per cent of those polled would vote PC. Regarding handling of cost of living, 69 per cent unsatisfied. Health Care? 65 per cent are unhappy.

Similar concerns are growing for Fords failure to rein in rampant development by weakening laws meant to protect the environment. He is also ignoring the dire need for affordable, rent geared to income housing. By downloading more and more responsibility for vital services to cities and regions and shortchanging these governments, after giving up millions in revenue from drivers licence fees , Ford is showing his true colours.

In politics, as in all matters, an important distinction must be made between manipulation and persuasion. It has been said the worst leaders manipulate by failing to disclose or by disclosing only information that supports their views.( e.g., Fords broken promise to protect the Greenbelt from development and his failure to disclose his intent to expand private medical services.)

The best leaders persuade in great part by being open about goals and motives.

It is clear which method Doug Ford chose.

Richard Murri

Niagara Falls

Letters welcome

We welcome letters from our readers. Send them to letters@niagaradailies.com or mail to PO Box 5031 Stn Main, St. Catharines, Ont., L2R 7T4. Letters should be 250 words or less, and may be edited for length and clarity. Please include your name, address and phone number for verification purposes.

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This is a story of globalization, capitalism and drugs, but also of hands gnarled by labor in the fields, lost harvests and dying communities: a story that can be traced from the subsistence farmers who grow poppies in the isolated mountains of Guerrero, Mexico, to the fentanyl addicts on the street corners of Los Angeles. In a world that is interconnected to the point of satiation, the chaos theory idea that the wings of a butterfly in Hong Kong can translate into a hurricane in New York extends to the most unexpected corners of reality. Hard drugs are no exception.

Fifteen years ago, photographer Cesar Rodriguez became familiar with the mountains of Guerrero while working as an evaluator of indigenous shelters. Since then, he has not stopped going back. It affected me a lot. I would go, take pictures, talk to people, get lost for a while, he tells EL PAIS over the phone. His camera was filled with snapshots of those places where poppy cultivation was the center of economic activity, but also of social and cultural life. A brown resin, called gum, is extracted from the flowers which, after drying, becomes heroin, a potent, addictive, and lethal drug that the United States and Canada consumed in vast quantities  90% of the product originated in Mexico. For decades, trafficking to the other side of the border was the main source of income for these towns. Until the arrival of a new narcotic that began to displace heroin: fentanyl, a synthetic substance that is sweeping the streets of the United States and has sparked a serious public health crisis, as well as diplomatic tensions between Mexico, the White House and China. With the decline of heroin use came social decline. Communities broke up, money evaporated and the men migrated again in search of work. Rodriguez documented it all in Montana Roja (or, Red Mountain), considered one of the best photography books of 2022 by the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

They cultivate and harvest to survive. I wanted to focus on the people: the traditions, the way of life over there, their rituals. And I saw that everything revolves around the poppy: there are rituals for better rainfall; if there is better rainfall, the better the harvest; they ask priests to come and bless their fields; or they pray that the army doesnt come and burn and cut down their fields; celebrations are paid for with poppy money; some people send their children to study with the proceeds of poppy money... The poppy is an economy for them, says Rodriguez.

A child in the church of San Miguel, Amoltepec, Guerrero. Cesar Rodriguez

Montana Roja is part of a larger project, an attempt to join the forces of academia and journalism to report on complex issues such as poppy production and fentanyl consumption. From the beginning of our periods spent in the highlands, people were saying: The Chinese are exporting a new drug and the gringos dont want heroin anymore. Everyone told the same story. For a very long time in Mexico, people didnt see this poppy crisis, but the farmers saw it very clearly; it was a kind of macroeconomic intuition. It is very interesting how information circulates in an illicit market, how information from the street in the United States ends up reaching the farmers in the Guerrero highlands, says Romain Le Cour, co-founder of Noria, one of the centers involved in the research.

What Cesar tried to do in the book is to show that an illicit economy is completely embedded in everyday life, continues Le Cour, who holds a doctorate in political science from Sorbonne University. Rodriguezs photographs portray Guerrero in the leisurely poetry of black and white: dirt roads lost in the mist of the mountains; humble huts, shacks constructed with plastic and aluminum; stray dogs; white-haired women and faces lined with wrinkles in churches that are falling apart; peasants with drooping shoulders and weary faces, cut from the same cloth of jeans, sandals and hats; old, calloused hands, tanned by dust, sowing and harvesting, with the universal scars left by endless days of work in the fields; poppy fields in the solitude of the hillsides, their thin stems crowned by a ball that resembles a scepter.

Poppies were almost a subsidy

At the height of the heroin boom, the price of poppy gum in the U.S. was 30,000 pesos ($1,670) per kilogram. When the fentanyl boom arrived, the price dropped to 3,000 pesos ($167) per kilogram, a figure that is far from profitable for farmers. People told us, I have poppy fields, but no one buys my gum. There is this notion that drugs are the most profitable product in the world, that it is a recession-proof industry, but what is documented in this project is a quite unprecedented economic crisis surrounding a drug: it is a product that no longer sells because of a macro transformation of the market, in demand... it was hugely unfortunate for the farmers of Guerrero, Sinaloa, Nayarit, or Durango, who had been cultivating poppies for decades. It was their source of income, says Le Cour.

A girl in a poppy field in the mountains of Guerrero. Cesar Rodriguez

The poppy, the academic explains, became almost a subsidy. It sprung up, took hold, grew, expanded and in the highlands and mountains people even began to grow it in the backyards of their homes, more or less in plain sight, despite a quite discretionary repression of the trade by the army. One generation passed it down to the next and for a while emigration to the United States was limited to an extent by it. It allowed people to return to their communities, to invest in them, to send their children to college. It was a very strong subsidy in very poor areas, ones that had been abandoned by the state.

But everything, eventually, comes to an end. Market forces managed to achieve what no politician had in 60 years: people stopped planting poppies. Without the poppy fields, income dried up. Inhabitants of the mountains began again to migrate north, to the U.S. or Mexican cities, to find work and send remittances home. Many were forced back into day labor, selling their days for miserable pay. This led to serious impoverishment in communities that were already very poor. At the moment, we are not able to assess the impact, but there is an incredible opportunity to re-integrate these people into legitimate economies in exchange for a gift that the economy handed the Mexican government, by removing the poppy, says Le Cour.

The hand of a leader of a self-defense group from the mountains of Guerrero, who was assassinated a year after this photograph was taken. Cesar Rodriguez

One hand, two bullets

Since Rodriguez first set foot in the mountains of Guerrero, the landscape has undergone changes. Now, many farmers leave the flowers to rot in the fields due to a lack of buyers. Others cling to a small uptick in prices. A few have already started the transition to avocado or lemon crops. The photographer tells the story of a man who, thanks to the poppy, was able to send his two eldest children to university. The third was not so lucky: he wanted to study computer science, but by the time he was old enough, his fathers savings were gone and he had to stay in the village and help with the harvest.

Violence also haunts these communities. Criminal groups that want to take control of the poppy business threaten the peace of the mountains. In the villages, self-defense groups have been formed by residents. When we went there, the area was practically untouched by the cartels; they only went there to buy the product. But the last few times we were there the cartels were starting to exert their influence. The locals told us there is a village surrounded by other villages that are dominated by the cartel: they are shut off; the children dont go to school because they are located in rival towns. There you are in apparent peace and suddenly you hear a bullet over there, gunfire coming from somewhere else, says Rodriguez.

In the photographers book, there is an image that illustrates the problem. It is of an old hand, covered with dust, dirt between the fingernails. In the palm, it holds two bullets. The hand belonged to the leader of one of the self-defense groups. A year after taking the photo, they killed him. It was very tough, Rodriguez says. Not all the images conjure bad memories, however. Some of the young people in the photos have migrated to California, and I plan to visit them to give them copies of the book. They are illegally employed and they send us memes and videos of them working in the strawberry fields.

Photographer Cesar Rodriguez. Victoria Will

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Building permits for multi-unit dwellings are on the rise in Ontario as the province continues to face pressure from increased demand and a critical shortage of housing.

The total value of building permits in Canada increased by 8.6 per cent to $10.7 billion in February compared to January, indicating robust intentions for both residential and non-residential sectors, according to a recent Statistics Canada report.

Seven provinces reported monthly increases, with notable gains in Ontario, especially for multi-dwelling units, such as condos and townhouses.

Multi-dwelling permits in Ontario sharply increased by 13.6 per cent in February compared to January, led by a variety of large value permits, or condo building construction, which jumped 25.4 per cent, the report said.

The demand for new homes since the pandemic has skyrocketed, said Luca Bucci, CEO of the Ontario Home Builders Association. Were seeing our members trying to provide as much supply as they can to meet demand.

In 2022, the federal government announced a plan to welcome half a million immigrants a year by 2025, of which many newcomers are skilled workers looking to potentially buy a home or rent.

Because the GTA has limited land availability building highrise towers is a cost-effective way to produce more housing, Bucci said. The cost to build over the last few years has increased substantially, so multi-dwelling units are the more economical option, he added.

Yearly construction costs for residential buildings rose the most for single-detached houses, by almost 21 per cent, and townhouses by more than 20 per cent, from 2021 to 2022, according to StatsCan. And for non-residential buildings costs increased by 12.5 per cent  the highest annual increase since 1981.

Thats why building more condos is economically more attractive for developers. Its resulting in a record 25,000 new condominium unit completions slated for 2023 with an additional 100,000 units set to be completed between 2024 and 2028, according to research firm Urbanation.

Premier Doug Fords government is also partly the reason for the rise in building permits due to policies like the More Homes Built Faster Act, which aims to speed up development, said Shawn Ramautor, a sales representative with Royal LePage Wolle Realty in Kitchener.

Were seeing a lot of these permits now because of the provincial governments policies, he said.

Multi-dwelling permits can also be used for turning a residential home into a duplex or triplex, or building a laneway house, which is a faster way to build more units than building a condo tower, he said.

While there has been an uptick in permits, an overall shortfall in housing still plagues the sector.

The provincial governments goal is to build 1.5 million homes by 2031. But it is already off target, according to the 2023 budget. Around 80,000 new housing starts are set to be built per year for the next three years, but to reach Fords goal in the next decade, closer to 160,000 housing starts are needed.

Last year, economists forecast that real estate and construction of new builds would take a hit in 2023 due to a possible recession. But the sector will be able to weather the storm due to high demand, said Bucci.

Its possible that in order to meet demand more building permits for multi-dwelling units will be reported in the coming year, said Christopher Alexander, president of Re/Max Canada.

The prospect for long-term health in Canadian real estate is really strong, so people will try and provide housing as a vehicle for investment, he said. There is an appetite for densification.

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The Yukon government is urging Canadas telecommunications regulator to ensure northern residents have access to the same internet service quality as the rest of the country at comparable rates.

Sean McLeish, assistant deputy minister of information and communications technology for the territory, told a CRTC panel on Tuesday the quality of internet service in Northern Canada, especially in rural and remote communities, is inferior to what is available throughout the rest of Canada.

What we would like to do is see a regime that encourages competition  viable competition, sustainable competition. But we recognize that we live in a vast area with few people and that it can be challenging to provide services in some areas, he told the commission.

So where competition doesnt arise, were looking for the commission to provide a framework for comparable affordability, reliability, quality, innovation because the market may not take us there.

McLeishs remarks came on the second day of a CRTC hearing being held this week in Whitehorse. The regulator is seeking feedback on actions it should take to improve telecommunications in communities in the Far North and to further reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.

He said until there are viable market forces to provide incentive for quality improvement by the private sector, public sector intervention is needed to ensure Yukoners do not get left behind.

An annual report released in February by Wall Communications Inc. found fixed internet prices in the Far North are considerably higher than the rest of Canada, particularly as download speeds increase.

The report noted that options for consumers are very limited, as Northwestel, which is owned by Bell Canada Enterprises Inc., is the only company that provides a comprehensive suite of internet services in Northern Canada.

Fixed internet rate plans can cost up to $223, on average, for speeds of 251 to 500 megabits per second in Northern Canada, compared with $97 in the rest of the country, according to the report.

We do know that northern rates are, in general, higher than the south, said McLeish. Were just looking for an ability to participate in a digital world in a digital economy thats the same as others in Canada.

Commissioner Claire Anderson, noting there have been calls for the CRTC to mandate wholesale high speed access in the Far North, questioned whether the regulator should do so if it cant ensure it is still profitable for Northwestel to invest in modern infrastructure, while still incentivizing wholesale internet providers to enter the market.

McLeish replied that a subsidy should be offered to northern customers potentially facing even higher retail broadband prices.

That allows Northwestel to charge the rates that it feels is necessary to continue to invest in the north and because of that, the retail rates will potentially allow for competition to enter the market, he said.

The regulator is also hearing from several local First Nations, service providers and municipalities as part of the proceedings.

Earlier in the day, the commission heard from representatives of the First Nation of Na-Cho Nyak Dun, whose community is located around 400 kilometres north of Whitehorse.

Na-Cho Nyak Dun finance director Adrienne Hill urged the CRTC to partner with Indigenous people as it develops a framework to improve internet access in the Far North.

Reconciliation is more than just a subsidy-driven idea, she said.

I think a reconciliatory relationship would be centred around having some participation with the CRTC in the development of these programs and these ideas, without it being just a sort of a short-term subsidy that really targets one thing.

Hill recalled a fire evacuation alert for the community last summer caused by a lightning strike that left its telecommunications systems disconnected. She said in remote northern communities, such outages leave families unable to evacuate if needed.

I do believe that the monopolization of major telecom companies across the country have left us extremely vulnerable, she said.

The regulator has a role to play in allowing us to not be as vulnerable as we are to when things go down or when were forced to pay a certain thing just to have access to telehealth or certain types of education.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 18, 2023.

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Its only a matter of time until every news outlet flees Twitter.

Maybe thats Elon Musks master plan. Keep antagonizing the media, one passive aggressive taunt at a time. Does this make business sense? Nope. But Mr. Musk did blow $44 billion (U.S.) on a leveraged buyout to obtain the social media company.

Thats like impulse-buying a banana for $900.

Musks anti-MSM fatwa crossed the border this week when he slapped a label on the CBCs official account. It was first, Government-funded media. The label was then amended to, 69% government-funded media, which only amplified the lolz of Musks delirious fans who cant get enough of his sophomoric trolling.

Musk claims such labels are for transparency. Right. Its like when he claimed his guiding interest in Twitter was free speech. Then he fired anyone who disagreed with anything he said. So if some now believe there is no qualitative difference between the CBC and North Korean state television, this is Musk shrugging and smirking and plotting his next antagonism.

Clicking on the new CBC label takes you to a Twitter Help Center page where government-funded media is defined as outlets where the government provides some or all of the outlets funding and may have varying degrees of government involvement over editorial content.

For accuracy, Musk could have worked Crown corporation, parliamentary appropriations and Broadcasting Act into his label so drive-by tweeters outside of Canada know the CBC operates with editorial independence. On Tuesday morning, the most popular story on the public broadcasters site was: Trudeau family vacationed with wealthy friends who donated to Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation.

I have a hunch the government was not involved in that editorial content.

In response to the label, CBC is hitting pause on Twitter. As Brodie Fenlon, editor-in-chief of CBC News, wrote: We cannot in good conscience continue to post fact-based news and information to Twitter, or engage on it, while a false impression of government involvement in our work is allowed to stand.

This follows NPR quitting Twitter a few days ago after it was falsely labelled state-affiliated media. Meanwhile, Musk grants an interview this week to Tucker Carlson, a blithering propagandist and demonstrable liar who failed spectacularly in trying to whitewash the Jan. 6 insurrection as sightseeing. More recently, Mr. Carlson is calling for America to liberate Canada, as if we are imprisoned in a Soviet gulag.

It would be hysterical if it wasnt so sad.

This is why the CBC should not hit pause on Twitter  it should quit for good.

All media outlets should bid sayonara to Musk until he ceases to be a man-boy in which the arrested development manifests in hasty mandates and poop emojis.

Musk isnt just running his social media company into the ground.

He is leading a doomsday cult hostile to all institutions.

Whats bonkers is how he doesnt seem to realize he needs the media way more than it needs him. When content is linked on Twitter, what is the average click-through rate? How often does it exceed five per cent? Every time I hit send on a column, I pray for a little Google juice. Google News can move the metrics needle.

Twitter does not drive traffic. It makes banging noises inside silos where the terminally biased retweet hot takes without actually reading what was posted. Twitter is like going to the zoo and making value judgments about the animals from the parking lot.

Musk says Twitter is a town square. Give me a break. The vast majority of people on this planet do not use Twitter and never will. A small minority of active users produce most of the content. If every journalist and every media outlet quit Twitter tomorrow, the site would be overrun with frothing partisans, conspiracy theorists and rabble rousers with alphanumeric handles operating out of foreign troll farms.

Musks fans believe their brave folk hero is taking a blowtorch to the media. He is only burning himself. Once media outlets, publicly funded or otherwise, discover Twitter is a grand illusion of overstated cultural influence, they will leave and wont come back. On Tuesday, the Hill reported a drop in Twitter referrals to news websites in recent months. The New York Times, for example, went from roughly 7.5 million in March 2022 to under 4 million this March.

No wonder the Times has balked at paying for a verified check mark.

Why pay for a monthly membership for the privilege of joining a doomsday cult?

Elon Musk could have improved Twitter by waging war on bots and hate speech and misinformation. Instead, he keeps picking idiotic fights with news organizations to rack up the likes and retweets of admirers who already despise the media. Its as if he bought a grocery chain just to throw eggs at its most loyal customers.

His obsession with labels is also hypocritical. Without millions in government subsidies, Tesla would be a local garage that hawks discounted rims and meme paint jobs. Take away the billions in federal contracts and SpaceX is basically an earthly maker of rockets that couldnt clear the CN Tower.

Where are the government-funded labels on Tesla and SpaceX?

When the Taliban can buy verified accounts on Twitter, and NPR or the CBC are undermined for the spectator sport, Musks priorities are beyond screwed up.

Every media outlet should quit Twitter.

Only then will Elon Musk realize the perils of lolz.

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ROSEAU, Minn. - Nine people were detained and one was missing after trying to walk across the Canada-United States border in the early hours of Tuesday morning, a Minnesota sheriff says.

The group made their illicit crossing in woods near Sprague in southeastern Manitoba and called 911 at approximately 4 a.m. as they were suffering from hypothermia, Steve Gust, the sheriff of Roseau County, said Tuesday.

Some were transferred to hospital but the majority of them were pretty good, Gust said. They were wet and had frozen clothing.

There is an official port of entry on a highway that runs through Sprague and across the border into Warroad, Minn., but Gust said the group was away from that port of entry.

U.S. customs officials said the group was located in a flooded bog west of Warroad. The area includes a large state forest that runs up to the border.

Border patrol agents provided immediate care as medical first responders and contacted local emergency medical services and local law enforcement agencies for additional assistance as needed, read a written statement from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency.

Agents were able to determine seven out of the nine people in the group had illegally entered the United States and did not have any documentation allowing them to be legally present in the United States.

Manitoba RCMP had people in the area, including a search and rescue team looking for the reported missing person.

Last year, a family of four from India froze to death while trying to walk across the border further west, near Emerson, Man.

The frozen bodies of Jagdish Patel, 39; his wife Vaishaliben Patel, 37; their 11-year-old daughter, Vihangi; and their three-year-old son, Dharmik, were found on Jan. 19, 2022, just metres from the U.S. border.

Steve Shand, a Florida resident, was charged with human smuggling.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection has reported a growing number of people trying to enter North Dakota, Minnesota and Wisconsin illegally from Canada since last fall.

 by Steve Lambert in Winnipeg

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 18, 2023

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REGINA - Saskatchewans health minister denies accusations of muzzling health-care workers after employees at a small community hospital were told in an internal memo not to speak with elected officials about their concerns.

Health Minister Paul Merriman said Tuesday the sender of a Saskatchewan Health Authority memo misinterpreted the policy when they told Lanigan Hospital staff not to co-ordinate tours or answer questions from legislature members or members of political parties.

The memo, released by the Opposition NDP, was sent on Feb. 7, the same day NDP legislature members were in the town southeast of Saskatoon as part of a tour to hear concerns about the state of health care in Saskatchewan.

Merriman explained the memo stems from a larger one sent earlier in the month across the health authority that told staff to direct legislature members and political parties to the coordinator if they wanted to tour facilities.

It looks like there was some persons interpretation to distribute that out to their staff. Its mere speculation on why the language was modified, but that wasnt the intent of the original memo, Merriman said.

The intent was to make sure that it was co-ordinatedfor patient safety and to minimize disruption for the health-care facility.

However, the New Democrats said the memo shows the government is muzzling concerned health-care workers.

NDP democracy critic Meara Conway said some constituents can only have their voices heard through the party.

The idea that we cant ask questions of front-line workers about their day-to-day experiences in our publicly funded health-care system is offensive, she said.

The government isnt silencing the Opposition party, who have a job and a role to play. Theyre silencing the people of Saskatchewan, the people who rely on the health-care system and the people who work in the health-care system.

The memo tells staff to direct legislature members to central co-ordination should they want information about the hospital and that they have been advised of this process.

Merriman explained central co-ordination is run by a person at the Saskatchewan Health Authority to set up facility tours. He said the Ministry of Health is not involved in that process.

Many small Saskatchewan hospitals have been plagued by temporary disruptions, resulting in reduced hours and closures.

Some community members have voiced frustration with being unable to access health care close to home and in a timely way.

NDP health critic Vicki Mowat said the Saskatchewan Party government has created an environment that politicizes decision-making.

Mowat said there is a culture of fear in health-care centres and employees are afraid to speak about their concerns.

I think what has changed is that we have a government that is so focused on limiting transparency and centralizing power so that all decision-making happens at that level, she said. Its top-down and people do not feel empowered to speak out.

Mowat said NDP legislature members were able to meet Lanigan staff who were comfortable meeting off the hospital site. The party has also toured other health centres.

However, Mowat said she and her colleagues have been accompanied by ministry staff and sometimes a Saskatchewan Party member when theyve toured other facilities.

Conway said such monitoring can put health-care staff in difficult positions to speak openly.

Thats consistent with what we see coming from this hush memo, which is increasingly surveillance and keeping tabs on whats being shared with the public and the Opposition, Conway said. Ive only been on one such tour, but it struck me that I was loath to sort of put anyone in that position in that context.

Merriman said the SHA coordinator can make those tours available to Saskatchewan Party members because its easier to combine people into a larger group than do multiple separate tours.

Legislature members staff can tag along, he added.

Theres no grand conspiracy theory behind this, he said. Its just a matter of co-ordinating to minimize disruption.

Mowat charged the NDP is being assigned Saskatchewan Party backbench babysitters to follow us around and listen to what were saying.

She has asked for the return of community health advisory networks, which Mowat said were dismantled when the provinces health regions were amalgamated to form the Saskatchewan Health Authority.

Mowat said the advisory networks would allow community members to voice concerns and be included in decision making.

Merriman said various community associations remain active and that the government is engaging with them.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 18, 2023.

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Seven youth who sued the Ontario government, claiming the provinces climate change plan was so woefully inadequate that it breached their charter rights, have lost their case.

In a decision issued last week, Justice Marie-Andree Vermette was sympathetic to the claims of the young people, but ultimately ruled that Ontarios emission reduction targets are not unconstitutional.

I agree with the Applicants that the evidence in this case shows that young people are disproportionately impacted by climate change. However, this disproportionate impact is caused by climate change, not by the (Ontario governments climate laws), ruled Vermette.

The decision did, however, rebuke the Ontario government  and reject evidence provided by its expert witness  for claiming emissions reductions in the province will have no effect on climate change.

I reject the notion that because climate change is an inherently global problem, each individual provinces GHG emissions cause no measurable harm, ruled Vermette. While Ontarios contribution to global warming may be numerically small, it is real, measurable and not speculative.

Ultimately, Ontarios emissions contribute to climate change and the increased risks that it creates. Every tonne of CO2 emissions adds to global warming and leads to a quantifiable increase in global temperatures that is essentially irreversible on human time scales.

The case focused on the climate legislation passed by the government of Premier Doug Ford, shortly after he was elected in 2018. The Cap and Trade Cancellation Act repealed more stringent emission reduction targets, passed by former premier Kathleen Wynnes government, and replaced them with targets that would allow 200 additional megatonnes of carbon to be emitted by 2030, the lawsuit alleged.

These additional emissions are not consistent with Canadas Paris Agreement commitments to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees, which Ontario also pledged to uphold, the lawsuit claimed, constituting a breach of the charter rights of the provinces youth, who will bear the brunt of climate change.

The provincial government is pleased with the decision, said ministry of the attorney general spokesperson Andrew Kennedy.

Ontario is leading Canadas progress on emission reductions and is responsible for almost all of Canadas progress towards its Paris Agreement goal, he added.

I have kind of mixed feelings, said Alex Neufeldt, one of the seven applicants. Climate change is a very solvable problem. And I think as a global community, we are starting to get on top of it. But unfortunately, the Ontario government doesnt seem like they want to be a part of a solution  and the court didnt do anything about changing that.

On the other hand, the judge, from my understanding, did accept all of our science and was not convinced by Ontarios so-called experts on their versions of the science. So that was really encouraging.

Neufeldt said the seven applicants took the weekend to digest the decision before meeting over Zoom with their lawyers, from the environmental organization Ecojustice, on Monday night, where they vowed to appeal the ruling.

We were prepared that this might happen, she said. (Our lawyers) asked us one last time: How are you guys feeling about this? Do you want to push forward? And we all enthusiastically said yes. So were headed to an appeal.

Lawyer Danielle Gallant said because the case was the first in Canada to get a full hearing, Vermettes decision contains several significant factual findings that will be helpful not only for the youth, but also for future climate cases.

She accepted the science set out in the IPCC reports, said Gallant. There is no debate that climate change is real. Its happening. It is causing harms in Ontario and it will continue to cause harms if global warming is not kept to 1.5 degrees Celsius. So that in and of itself is a huge positive aspect to this decision.

The judge also rejected the provinces claim that its climate plan is more of a glossy brochure than a law and has no power to reduce emissions.

I also disagree with Ontarios submission that, in effect, the (law) is meaningless, wrote Vermette. I am not prepared to accept that a legislative requirement, or that something that is required by law to be approved by the Lieutenant Governor in Council, is meaningless.

Gallant said the ruling also established facts that she hopes to build on during appeal.

The court found that Ontarios target falls severely short of the scientific consensus on what has to be done to address climate change, she said. And not only that, but because its target is so inadequate, it causes an increase in the risk to Ontarians life and health  in a way that deprives them of their section seven rights.

Vermette also found that young and Indigenous people are disproportionately affected by climate change, Gallant said.

Where the case failed, she said, was on several points of law, including a ruling that the governments inadequate climate policy still amounted to doing something to fight climate change.

Its like the government of Ontario is bringing a glass of water to put out a house on fire. And so, you know, yes, its doing something. But that action falls so severely short of (whats needed).

Cumulatively, these findings represented a silver lining to a decision that, on the surface, represents a loss, said Gallant.

We remain steadfast in the fact that Ontarios actions in setting up an incredibly weak and inadequate 2030 climate target is unconstitutional because it causes harms to Ontarians health and life that are contrary to their charter protected rights. And so that is what we will continue to argue on appeal.

The fight is certainly not over.

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CALGARY - Suncor has reported six million litres of water that exceed sediment guidelines have been released into the Athabasca River from a pond at its Fort Hills oilsands mine.

Suncor took action to stop the discharge system and the release has been stopped, said a note from the Alberta Energy Regulator sent to area First Nations on Monday.

The note said the water is from a pond used to settle suspended solids in surface water that runs in from various parts of the site. The water has drained from muskeg, rock and soil overlaying the bitumen, material being stored for reclamation and other areas of the site that are undisturbed by mining.

Suncor spokeswoman Erin Rees characterized the release as surface water that has a high natural silt content.

Normally, the sediments are allowed to settle and the water is emptied into a creek that drains into the Athabasca River.

But on Sunday, Suncor reported that levels of solids suspended in the water were more than twice the allowed limit.

Suncor said it has stopped outflow from the pond and is studying the cause of the problem and how it affected water quality.

Spokespeople for the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation and Mikisew Cree First Nation said the bands were notified of the release Monday.

Environment Canada has also confirmed that it was notified.

Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault said he didnt have much more information than what was published by the Alberta Energy Regulator on Monday.

I have asked my officials to urgently look into it, he said.

However, the government of the Northwest Territories said that Alberta failed again to let it know about whats going on in a watershed they share.

We are deeply concerned by this lack of information sharing and notification which is a commitment of our transboundary water management agreement, Shane Thompson, the territorys environment and climate change minister, said in a release.

This further erodes the trust of the government of the Northwest Territories, Indigenous governments and organizations, N.W.T. communities, and residents in the management of water, the potential release of treated tailings to the Athabasca River and (our) transboundary agreement.

Thompson said he planned to raise the issue with his Alberta counterpart, Sonya Savage, in a meeting scheduled Wednesday.

Timely notification of water releases from oilsands mine became an issue earlier this spring.

Last May, Imperial Oil noticed discoloured water seeping from one of its tailings ponds that turned out to be groundwater contaminated by waste, but neither First Nations nor governments were notified about the problem until February after a second release from a catchment pond. Three inquiries have since been called into that nine-month silence  an internal probe called by the regulators board, an inquiry by Albertas information commissioner and a series of hearings by the House of Commons environment and sustainability committee.

At those hearings on Monday, First Nations leaders called for the regulator to be disbanded and rebuilt. Alberta Energy Regulator head Laurie Pushor and executives from Imperial Oil are expected to appear on Thursday.

Water tests after those releases have confirmed toxic chemicals in local groundwater and at least one nearby water body.

Guilbeault has promised to create a new watchdog group to ensure intergovernmental communication around wastewater releases, as well as to address ongoing concerns about the possibility of seepage from all oilsands tailings ponds.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 18, 2023.

 By Bob Weber in Edmonton. Follow him on Twitter at @row1960.

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The coronation of King Charles III is expected to draw hundreds of special guests and dignitaries from nations around the world. The May 6 ceremony, in which the King will officially be crowned at Westminster Abbey following a formal procession from Buckingham Palace, will include roughly 2,000 attendees.

Heres a look at whos set to attend the historic event, who will notably be absent and who has yet to publicly confirm their attendance.

Confirmed Attendees

Prince Harry: On April 12, Buckingham Palace made it official: Prince Harry will attend his fathers coronation the following month. The announcement ended weeks of fervent speculation about whether the 38-year-old would be welcome, following the sharp criticisms and allegations of discrimination he levelled against his family, publicized in a Netflix docuseries and his bestselling memoir, Spare. Its unclear, however, how visible the Duke of Sussex will be at the coronation, including whether he will appear on the balcony of Buckingham Palace with other members of the Royal Family at the end of the ceremony.

Gov. Gen. Mary Simon: Kings Charless representative in Canada, Gov. Gen. Mary Simon, will attend his coronation on May 6, a spokesperson for her office confirmed to the Star via email on April 14. Simon, the first Inuk to hold the position, is reportedly facilitating an opportunity for Indigenous leaders to meet with the King ahead of his coronation, according to the Assembly of First Nations.

Royal Canadian Mounted Police: Five members of the RCMPs musical ride, the Mounties renowned performance cavalry unit, will participate in the Kings procession, RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Kim Chamberland confirmed with the Star. The RCMP members will ride in the coronation procession from Westminster Abbey to Buckingham Palace, ahead of the King and Camilla, the Queen Consort. They will ride on former musical ride horses George, Elizabeth, Sir John, Darby and Noble, all of whom were gifted to the Royal Family. The RCMP has shared a particularly special relationship with the Royal Family through its mutual gifting of horses. Our most recent gift, Noble, was presented to the King last month, furthering our long-standing tradition, Chamberland told the Star. The RCMP will be joined by armed forces members from the U.K. and across the Commonwealth and other British territories.

British parliamentarians: Rishi Sunak, the first British prime minister appointed by the King, will attend the coronation ceremony with his wife, Akshata Murthy, according to multiple British media reports. British cabinet ministers are also expected to be present, though many are angered that theyve not been allowed to bring a plus one to the event, unlike the prime minister. Lots of cabinet ministers, and their partners, are unhappy about it, a government source told the Daily Mail on April 9. They sacrifice a lot for their other half to do the jobs they do, and it would mean a great deal to be invited to the Coronation.

First lady Jill Biden: During a phone call with King Charles in early April, President Joe Biden confirmed that his wife, first lady Jill Biden, will represent the U.S. at the royal event, the White House said. The American president said his wife looks forward to attending on behalf of the United States.

British Empire Medal recipients: A man who climbed the highest peak in South Britain every day for a year to raise money for cancer research; a doctor who served on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic; and a woman who started a charity and has spoken to more than 10,000 people to raise awareness about road safety. Those are among the recipients of the British Empire Medal  awarded for commendable civil and military service  who will attend the Kings coronation on May 6.

Expected Absences

Meghan Markle: While Prince Harry will be making the trip to London in May, his wife and two children will not. A spokesperson for the couple confirmed on April 12 that Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, will remain in California with Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. Of note, Coronation Day happens to fall on Archies fourth birthday.

President Joe Biden: No sitting U.S. president has ever attended a British royal coronation. President Joe Biden isnt expected to break with that tradition. Biden told the King he looks forward to meeting the monarch at a future date, after announcing that his wife, first lady Jill Biden, will represent the U.S. at the ceremony, the White House said. However, the presidents decision not to attend the ceremony has drawn some criticism. This is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and you would have thought he should come because hes a head of state, Bob Seely, a Conservative member of the British Parliament, told the Telegraph.

Unconfirmed Attendees

Canadian parliamentarians: Government officials have been tight-lipped about which politicians will be at the Kings coronation. While the Governor Generals attendance has been confirmed, further details regarding the composition of the Canadian delegation will be announced in due course, Pierre-Alain Bujold, spokesperson for Canadas Privy Council Office, said in an email to the Star. Though Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is widely expected to attend, his role in the ceremony is unclear. At the coronation of Queen Elizabeth in 1953  a larger affair than the Kings upcoming royal event, which royal insiders say will be scaled-back  then prime minister Louis St. Laurent rode in the queens coronation procession, escorted by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

Ralph Goodale: Jean-Pierre J. Godbout, spokesperson for Global Affairs Canada, could not confirm whether Canadas high commissioner to the United Kingdom, Ralph Goodale, will attend the ceremony. Canadas participation at the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III will be announced in due course, Godbout said in an email to the Star on April 14.

With files by The Associated Press

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BELFAST, Northern Ireland (AP)  Former U.S. President Bill Clinton said Tuesday he was optimistic that one of Northern Irelands main political parties would soon end a boycott that has kept the regional government on ice for more than a year.

Clinton said he had met with Democratic Unionist Party leader Jeffrey Donaldson on Monday, and I left that meeting more optimistic than I entered it.

Clinton is in Belfast this week to mark 25 years since the Good Friday Agreement ended decades of sectarian bloodshed. The deal established a Northern Ireland government with power shared between British unionist and Irish nationalist parties.

The DUP walked out more than a year ago to protest post-Brexit trade rules that imposed a customs border between Northern Ireland and the rest of the U.K. It has refused to return, despite a deal reached by the U.K. and the EU in February to remove many of the border checks.

Clinton said the deal, known as the Windsor Framework, had gone a long way to resolving the political impasse.

So I expect that, in the not too distant future, the barriers to bringing up the government again will be removed, he told the BBC. Because everybody knows that economically, socially and politically, they would be worse off if they packed it in over the current level of disagreement.

U.K. Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris also urged the DUP to go back into government, saying those who valued Northern Irelands place in the United Kingdom should put the union first, restore the devolved institutions and get on with the job of delivering for the people of Northern Ireland.

The biggest threat to Northern Irelands place in the union is failing to deliver on these priorities, he told a Good Friday Agreement commemoration conference in Belfast.

The political impasse has left Northern Irelands civil servants running a skeleton caretaker government, with no politicians in place to make big decisions amid a cost-of-living crisis and a creaking public health service.

The other parties in the Northern Ireland Assembly have expressed frustration, but Donaldson said Tuesday that his party would not be browbeaten into submission.

The great and the good can lecture us all they want for a cheap round of applause but it wont change the political reality, he wrote on Twitter, adding: Berating unionists wont solve the problem.

Doug Beattie, leader of the smaller Ulster Unionist Party, warned that putting too much pressure on the DUP would be counterproductive.

If you try and batter people  they just go to their trenches and they dig in, he told reporters.

But Beattie said he was confident the government would be restored.

Im in no doubt whatsoever that the DUP is going to go back into the executive, he said. Id put money on it. I would sell my house on it. Im telling you, they are going back in. But its all about when.

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In a video from mid-September 2020, journalist Rafael Moreno, aided by a thick rope, begins to descend into a hole about a meter wide and several meters deep in the ground. With a grin on his face and the sounds of reggaeton in the background, Moreno speaks to the person holding the camera as he finds his footing and slowly descends into the earth.

It feels like Im reliving the days when I was a miner, he says.

Moreno, an investigative journalist from the densely forested region of Cordoba in the north of Colombia, was no stranger to this gold mine, called El Alacran. After all, the adjacent village of the same name is where Moreno grew up. It was, in his words, a little lost corner of the world that he taught his own children to be proud of having roots in.

Everyone in El Alacran still remembers little Rafael Moreno. Though the journalist had left the village at the age of 18, he came back regularly. Hed stay at our place, in his former house. He was part of the community, Maria Martinez, who now lives in the house Moreno grew up in, remembered. I would tell him: Be careful, stay calm and quiet, you could get killed.

Thats what happened, she said, wiping tears from her eyes.

Just over two years after posting the video, on October 16, 2022, Moreno was shot dead in the neighboring town of Montelibano. Today, the video stands as a testament to Morenos personal background and one of his greatest battles as a journalist and community leader: documenting and denouncing the illegal extraction of minerals in this region of Colombia.

From left to right : Carlos Enrique Aguirre Perez, president of the El Alacran Mine Miners Association, Nolbairo Martinez, artisanal miner and leader, Brenda Bohorquez Diaz, one of the leaders of the Alacran community. Aida Delpuech/Forbidden Stories

This mandate became clear in conversations between Moreno and Forbidden Stories in the days before his death. Threatened for his work since at least 2019, Moreno was in contact with the consortium with the goal of securing his documents through the SafeBox Network, a platform that allows threatened journalists to protect sensitive information by sharing it with Forbidden Stories.

We are working on environmental questions, he said in an initial call with Forbidden Stories on October 7, 2022, nine days before he was killed. [We are investigating] public administrations and [companies] that operate without any environmental or mining licenses.

Starting days after Morenos death, 30 journalists, coordinated by Forbidden Stories, came together to pursue his unfinished work  the first time a consortium of journalists have pursued the work of a colleague who had expressly asked for his work to be published posthumously if something were to happen to him. Today, these investigations are being published by 32 media outlets around the world. The Rafael Project relies on documents, emails and freedom of information requests Moreno left behind, in addition to ground reporting and research contributed by the consortium partners.

Over six months, Forbidden Stories and its partners examined three of the mines Moreno had begun to investigate, finding significant irregularities in their operations and in most cases confirming the hunches Moreno himself had made public in the months and years before his death, including failures to consult with indigenous communities, mines operating without a license and environmental damage caused to local communities and ecosystems.

A blessing and a curse

Sitting at a wooden table, her blue-encased smartphone resting next to her, Brenda Bohorquez Diaz began to sing a song she had composed. Here, where the wealth is minerals / drawn in a traditional way / our families have gold in our hands, she crooned.

Diaz, who is one of the spokespeople for the community, lives in El Alacran  the same small mining town Rafael Moreno grew up in.

In El Alacran, the land is our wealth, Diaz explained. The community of 1,200 people lives modestly. Here, miners extract the precious metal manually, using shovels and basic machinery to sift through the rich soil.

For decades, the artisanal mine has managed to keep afloat despite the arrival of large-scale mining operations to the area. With its vast carbon, nickel, copper, gold, silver, cobalt, and iron reserves, this part of southern Cordoba, called Puerto Libertador, has 50 active mining permits  about half of the permits in the region. But in El Alacran, Diaz worries this might be changing.

Today, the town is threatened by a proposed megaproject that risks disturbing the delicate balance. Led by the company Cordoba Minerals, headquartered in Canada with shareholders in the U.S. and China, the colossal San Matias project aims to turn Colombia into the worlds biggest copper exporter. The proposed 20,000-hectare project would exploit 22,000 tons of copper per day, as well as smaller amounts of gold and silver. According to the companys president, the project has the support of local and national authorities, as well as local communities.

In the months before his death, Moreno had begun to look into this megaproject, which the company calls a small-scale initiative in a global context. In June 2022, his media outlet Voces de Cordoba sent out a call for testimonies in a Facebook post. These communities deserve respect, the post read. He was never able to fully investigate.

Drone view of the Alacran village and artisanal mine. FRANCE 24

Following up on his work, Forbidden Stories visited the site of the proposed mining project and spoke to community members. In interviews and informal conversations, these community members told us that Colombian authorities had not consulted local communities before granting a license to Cordoba Minerals, nor did the community support the project. This project will bleed our land dry, Diaz said. Our existence is incompatible with the project. One day, they will kick us out.

In a statement shared with Forbidden Stories and its partners, Cordoba Minerals denied the presence of indigenous communities in the village of El Alacran. Something residents contest. Several indigenous families from the San Pedro community live there, Israel Aguilar, former tribal chief of the Zenu indigenous reservation of Alto San Jorge, said.

Diaz pointed to a house on the main road of the village, where workers wearing shirts with the Cordoba Minerals logo were dismantling the sheet metal and the entire structure of a modest house to make room for an exploratory drilling site. They were surprised to find out how many people we were, she said. According to residents, the company has said the house will be reconstructed after the exploratory drilling is completed. (In a statement, a spokesperson for Cordoba Minerals denied that the house could have been affected by the construction of the exploratory drilling site, but confirmed that the company had indemnified certain individuals related to specific construction sites.)

Miners in El Alacran say that despite multiple attempts to obtain a mining permit dating back 40 years, the National Mining Agency has refused their demands. Now, the region is moving forward with the megaproject, granting a license to Cordoba Minerals  which already holds half of the permits in the region, according to an analysis by the Center for Latin American Investigative Journalists (CLIP), a partner on this project.

The San Matias project, residents worry, will lead to negative health and environmental consequences  concerns that the company itself admitted to in a 2019 report that evoked the potential deterioration of the communitys health and an increase in social pathologies in a section on project risks.

This wealth is a blessing and a curse, Diaz said.

Rafaels final obsession

Morenos work on mining wasnt just relegated to his hometown of El Alacran.

The journalist and his colleague Organis Cuadrado regularly denounced pollution and environmental damage linked to some of the larger-scale mining projects in the region, often driving to remote locations and posting Facebook videos showing plumes of smoke and debris rising from distant evacuation vents.

Several months before he was killed, Moreno took on a new David vs Goliath battle. In a June 2022 Facebook post, he announced an investigation into irregularities in a large carbon mine in the municipalities of Puerto Libertador and Montelibano, run by a company called Carbomas S.A.S.

The June post marked an inflection point in a protracted battle with Carbomas, stemming from a freedom of information request Moreno had sent several months before requesting a copy of the companys environmental permit, certificate of extracted materials and a guarantee that the mining project would have a positive socio-economic impact on the surrounding communities.

Moreno suspected that Carbomas had been operating without a license, and hadnt consulted local communities, which is legally obligated in Colombia under most circumstances.

One month after he had sent the request, the company responded to Moreno, saying the request was inappropriate. Moreno and Caudrado took this to mean that the company was covering up information about clear irregularities. This denunciation is based on my investigative and ground reporting, Moreno said in a 25-minute video responding to criticism of his reporting. Im not making anything up, its all documented.

Behind the scenes, though, Moreno appears to have been facing rising pressure linked to this investigation, Forbidden Stories can reveal. Accessing Morenos email account after his death, Forbidden Stories obtained an exclusive document showing that in early July 2022 Moreno had retracted his freedom of information request to the mine.

This retraction came just three days after Moreno found a death threat left on his motorcycle, accompanied with a bullet. You think youre untouchable because you speak out publicly, but nobody here is, the typed note, which was unsigned, read. We know everything about you and will not forgive you for what youre doing.

Although its not possible to say for sure that the retraction of the freedom of information request was linked to the death threat, whats clear is that after early July, Moreno abandoned his investigation into Carbomas. Forbidden Stories review of Morenos personal documents, as well as public Facebook posts, found no additional mentions of the mine.

As part of the Rafael Project, our consortium pursued Morenos work on Carbomas. A document we obtained through a freedom of information request to the Autonomous Regional Corporation of the Sinu and San Jorge Valleys (or CVS by its Spanish acronym), a regional environmental watchdog agency, confirms Morenos reporting. This several-hundred page document reveals that at the time of Morenos initial accusations against the mine, Carbomas appears to have not had an environmental license for its new carbon mine La Estrella.

Additionally, previously unreleased satellite images from Planet Labs, obtained by the OCCRP  a member of the consortium  suggest that in May 2022, the time of Rafael Morenos accusations, the mine was already in the exploitation stage, although the company did not yet have an environmental license. This image clearly shows that the mine was in the exploitation phase, given the advanced level of deforestation and the presence of cavities, Guadalupe Garcia Prado, director of the Guatemala-based Extractive Industries Observatory, told Forbidden Stories. (Carbomas did not respond to questions about the start date of its mining operations.)

According to the CVS document, the company applied for an environmental license two months after Morenos initial freedom of information request, on June 21, 2022. Its license was approved several months later, in November  about a month after Morenos killing.

Carbomas is not an isolated case. In fact, the company sells its carbon to one of the largest nickel mines on the continent, Cerro Matoso  which for years has been decried by community members, journalists and activist groups for its negative health and environmental impacts on neighboring communities.

Naturally, Moreno investigated this mine too.

Polluter number one

In a region not known for its pomp and circumstance, the entrance of the town of Montelibano stands out for its loud display: a colorful sign reading Capital of nickel in front of a towering Caterpillar 773D bulldozer.

If Montelibano is known for one thing, its the Cerro Matoso mine. The largest nickel mine in Latin America and fourth-largest in the world by surface area, Cerro Matoso is known well beyond the contours of Cordoba. Along the route into town, trucks squeeze by each other on narrow roads, transporting ferronickel to the port city of Cartagena. From here, nickel is shipped off to China, the United States and Europe, where its used to produce stainless steel products.

In Montelibano, Cerro Matoso boldly advertises its contribution to the community with a silver plaque celebrating its 40 years of operations. The large bulldozer, per the plaque, was donated by the company that owns the mine, South32, as a symbol of the mining-industrial activity in the region. We are participating in the energy transformation because our products are highly sought after for the production of solar panels, Pedro Oviedo, the mines chief of operations, told Forbidden Stories.

Within the Cerro Matoso mine. Aida Delpuech/Forbidden Stories

But beyond the glare of these ostentatious displays, nickel shines less brightly. To some, its viewed as a point of pride, but for many others, the Cerro Matoso mine is an environmental and health disaster.

Cerro Matoso takes up nearly 85 hectares of land in the middle of an indigenous reserve belonging to the Zenu de lAlto San Jorge people. Several indigenous communities surround the mine, including one village  Puerto Colombia  which is situated just 750 meters from the mine.

Here you wont find a single person in good health, Estela Isabel Hoyos Arcia, an inhabitant of Puerto Colombia who complained of itching eyes and other health issues, told Forbidden Stories.

Residents believe that the mines smokestacks, particularly active at night, they say, are to blame. In November 2021, Moreno published images showing a cloud of pinkish smoke appearing to come out of Cerro Matosos smokestack and propagate across a wide distance. Ah, how beautiful our region is with the decorations of the Cerro Matoso plant, he wrote ironically beneath one photo.

Cerro Matoso called foul, saying Morenos and other images uploaded around the same time were backdated. In response, Moreno and Cuadrado, his reporting partner, published a video showing the mine from a distance. Today is November 23, 2021, Moreno states in the video. The pink cloud you see is the origin of the communities health issues. (In a statement to Forbidden Stories, the mines chief of operation said: Only water vapor comes out of our chimneys. Regarding the pink cloud, its certainly a flaw in the system, its an exception.)

Videos from other sources suggest that there were other incidences of the pink smoke that same year and again in April 2022. According to the Colombian Ministry of the Environment, non-controlled emissions were seen coming from the mine as early as 2017, a fact that was later corroborated by the Health and Social Protection Ministries, which mentioned the presence of an orange cloud.

Several years later, in 2020, CVS accused Cerro Matoso of particle emissions exceeding environmental standards.

In a statement to Forbidden Stories and its partners, Cerro Matoso denied all accusations regarding air pollution, writing: No measurement [of air pollution in 2022] has reached the limit of the annual average of the guidelines defined by the World Health Organization. The company also invoked its transparency, saying that all measurements from its sampling stations are available online.

Inside the mine, health conditions are even worse, according to Victor Pineda, a former mine employee. A lot of gases are released during these operations, he said. They contain substances that are often carcinogenic, including cancerous crystalline silica.

The millions of tons of waste generated since the beginning of the mines activities are stored open-air, where they are easily dispersed by the weather, Pineda added. The waste is composed of highly toxic particles, he said. All it takes is a little wind or rain for the particles to travel and contaminate the surrounding area.

Four kilometers from the mine, the indigenous village of Guacari-La Odisea is also affected by the mines emissions, with even young children suffering from unusual pains. Yolanda Rosa Hayos, 63 years old, cried as she described having pain everywhere and black blemishes that appeared all over my body.

When she visited the doctor  paid for by a non-profit linked to the mine  she was told not to worry. This irony was not lost on Camilo Castellanos, a doctor of toxicology at the Pontificia Universidad Javeriana. Cerro Matoso, he said, is at once the judge and the jury when it comes to health questions.

For community members, theres no doubt that the nickel mine is causing devastating health problems. These respiratory problems are leading us to our tomb, one resident said.

A national case

In 2013, Israel Aguilar, governor and tribal chief of the indigenous Zenu de lAlto San Jorge, and Luis Hernan Jacobo, president of the Council of Afro-Colombian Communities of San Jose de Ure, filed a case in Colombias Constitutional Court against Cerro Matoso and two national mining agencies: the Ministry of Mines and the National Mining Agency for Environmental and Health Damage. The Court agreed to take on the case, investing significant means to establish whether or not the mine was responsible for damage to nearby communities.

Through this probe, the Institute of Legal Medicine and Sciences  one of the countrys luminary research agencies  conducted an unprecedented study aimed at identifying the presence of nickel in the blood and urine of roughly 1,150 people living in the vicinity of the mine. The results, confirmed by the Ministry of Health, were clear: High levels of nickel in the blood, well above the benchmark authorized in international studies.

Estela Isabel Hoyos Arcia, an inhabitant of the village of Puerto Colombia, held the results of her tests firmly in her hands. They were startling: six micrograms (g) of nickel in her bloodstream and 19 in her urine, or roughly 10 to 11 times higher than the benchmark set by Quebecs National Institute of Public Health, one of the strictest norms worldwide.

In March 2018, the Constitutional Court issued its judgment against Cerro Matoso, requiring the company to financially compensate and provide healthcare services to the affected communities, as well as renew its environmental license, which dated back to 1981. If the company failed to comply, the Court reserved the right to order the suspension of extractive activities.

South32, the owner of the mine, and its powerful network of lawyers, which included Eduardo Cifuentes Munoz, the former president of Colombias Constitutional Court, appealed the case. They argued that the court had misinterpreted the medical report published by the Institute of Legal Medicine and Sciences, specifying that the relation of direct causality was not established regarding the impact seen in the population and the exploitation of Cerro Matoso.

Company lawyers argued that it was impossible to attribute the high levels of nickel in the samples to the mine, saying that other external factors may have influenced the results.

The Legal Medicine Institutes methodology, nonetheless, was validated by all the public institutions and parties relevant to the case, including Cerro Matoso itself.

Of course theres an external factor, its the mine itself, Castellanos, the toxicologist at Pontificia Universidad Javeriana and a member of the Legal Medicine Institutes methodology team, said. The levels of nickel observed in the samples were between 10 and 100 times above the legally established Quebec norms. Going beyond the report, the levels of nickel are high enough that I am intimately convinced that the mine is intoxicating the population in a chronic fashion.

This is the strongest possible evidence that the mine is responsible, Javier de la Hoz, a lawyer who represented communities at the time, told Forbidden Stories. (In a statement to Forbidden Stories and its partners, Cerro Matoso cited, among other things, a 2016 report by a toxicologist of international renown, which contested the methodological reports of the Institute of Legal Medicine.)

Nonetheless, several months later, in September 2018 the Court went back on its ruling, voting in a second instance court to annul most of the proceedings against Cerro Matoso. To De la Hoz, there was no doubt that this was the result of corruption. Three high-level sources who were present at the internal sessions have confirmed this to me, he told Forbidden Stories.

The Constitutional Court case was not the only controversy for Cerro Matoso. In 2015, a few months after the Constitutional Court decided to look into the complaints against Cerro Matoso, another major event occurred. BHP Billiton, the historic owner of the nickel operation since 1980, sold the mine to South32, an Australian subsidiary spun off from BHP Billiton, which had previously tried unsuccessfully to sell Cerro Matoso. This spin-off company inherited the mining giants non-strategic assets.

BHP created South32 to get rid of all its dirty projects, De la Hoz said.

After the trial, an agreement was reached with the communities. Since then, over $13 million has been spent on social projects in the surrounding communities, something Cerro Matoso highlighted in response to our questions.

In Puerto Colombia, the village closest to the mine, nearly all the houses are brand new, while others are still under construction. But residents say that its not enough. Our health doesnt have a price, and this new house wont bring it back, Hoyos Arcia said.

Other communities have been affected. In San Jose de Ure, an Afro-Colombian village located 10 km from the Cerro Matoso mine, another health drama has been unfolding in silence: over the past two years, some 20 women have undergone a procedure called a hysterectomy in which their uterus is removed, according to a field investigation conducted by Radio France International, a member of the Forbidden Stories consortium. All of the women suffer from the same symptoms: severe bleeding and unbearable pain. Why are so many of us suffering from this? they asked.

According to a report from the Institute of Forensic Medicine, uterine fibroids are one of 17 diseases suffered by the populations surrounding the mine. Although the Constitutional Court ordered Cerro Matoso to provide comprehensive health care to the victims of these ailments, none of these women have received any help. (In a statement to Forbidden Stories and its partners, Cerro Matoso contended that only one person has requested care for this protocol.)

Aguilar, the governor and tribal chief, was resigned. The health issue is not a done deal, he said. And the consequences on our mother earth are worse than before.

In Cordoba, denouncing mining activities at your own risk

Much like Moreno, local leaders and affected community members have continued to make noise about the health and environmental consequences of mining activities in the region  often at significant personal risk.

Ever since the signing of Peace Accords between the Colombian government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC, by its Spanish acronym), a rebel group, 56 local leaders, many of them actively resisting mining projects, have been killed in the south of Cordoba, according to the Observatory of Human Rights and Conflict, a project carried out by the Institute for Peace Studies (Indepaz). In Colombia, mining activities were the most common source of social and environmental conflicts in the country.

Aguilar, who in addition to representing indigenous communities in the region is also a former miner, has had to take numerous precautions in his everyday life. I cant move about in public spaces, he told Forbidden Stories. At home, I cant even spend more than 20 minutes on the balcony because its too risky.

In his frequent public speaking events, Aguilar is accompanied by armed security guards and has received numerous threats. He is one of more than 200 human rights defenders to benefit from this type of protection, provided by the National Protection Unit, or UNP, in Cordoba.

Here, theres a triangle of power: armed groups, [the Gulf Clan, a powerful criminal faction], politicians and mining interests are all part of the same ecosystem of crime and corruption, one source, who spoke on the condition of anonymity due to security risks, said.

Absolutely all of the mining companies here pay the Clan, another anonymous source told us. Where there are mines, there are paramilitary groups.

Victor Pineda, the former Cerro Matoso employee who left the company in 2003 after 21 years due to health issues, including dysautonomia of the nervous system and a series of digestive and cardiac problems, has been fighting for 20 years to get his illness recognized as work-related and receive compensation. He has accused the company of not taking the necessary precautions to protect him from extreme heat.

Several days after the assassination of Moreno, Pineda shared several Facebook posts of Morenos about Cerro Matoso in the journalists memory. A week later, he received a threatening letter in his window: Stop trying to act like an environmental leader. You saw what happened to journalist Rafael Moreno in Montelibano. You have been warned.

I dont know why I was personally threatened, he said. Many of us denounced the mine, and Im neither a leader nor a spokesperson.

Organis Cuadrado, Morenos colleague who also roundly criticized the mining industry, for his part, has decided to keep a low profile since his colleagues death. Since October, he has hosted a local music and news program on a radio station called La Piragua. I have a family and I want to see my kids grow up, he said. I know Im next on the list if I continue to denounce [mining activities] like Rafa and I used to.

Since Morenos death, Cuadrado has been accompanied by two bodyguards and only travels in armored vehicles. The killing of his friend and colleague marked a turning point in the region. Even if some continue to raise their voices, many more have gone quiet. Its silence, Cuadrado said.

Translation: Phineas Rueckert

Felipe Morales (El Espectador), Pascale Mariani (France 24), Ivonne Rodriguez (El Clip), Angelica Perez (RFI) and Aabla Jounaidi (RFI) contributed interviews and research.

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KYIV, Ukraine (AP)  Russian President Vladimir Putin visited headquarters of the Russian troops fighting in Ukraine early Tuesday, his second trip to the Russian-held territories there since March.

A video released by the Kremlin and broadcast by Russian state television showed Putin visiting the command post for Russian forces in the southern Kherson region. It showed Putin arriving by helicopter to receive reports from the top military brass about the combat situation.

The Russian leader then moved by helicopter to the headquarters of the Russian National Guard of the eastern Luhansk region to hear report from commanders.

In both locations, Putin congratulated the military on the Orthodox Easter that was celebrated Sunday and presented them with icons.

Russia annexed the Kherson and Luhansk regions along with the Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia regions in September in a move that was rejected by much of the world as illegal.

It was impossible to independently verify the footage of Putins visits to the two regions that was released by the Kremlin. The trip marked a second visit by the Russian leader to the areas that Russia occupied in Ukraine in as many months.

Last month, Putin visited the Russian-held Sea of Azov port city of Mariupol, which was captured by Russian troops in May after two months of fierce fighting.

Putins trips to the military headquarters come as Ukraine is preparing for a new counteroffensive to reclaim the occupied territories.

Russias war in Ukraine has turned into a stalemate amid heavy fighting in the countrys east, particularly around the town of Bakhmut, which for 8 1/2 months has been the stage for the wars longest and bloodiest fight.

Ukrainian officials have said theyre buying time by depleting Russian forces in the battle while Kyiv prepares a counteroffensive. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has argued that if Russia wins the Bakhmut battle, it could allow Putin to begin building international support for a deal that would require Ukraine to make unacceptable compromises to end the war.

Oleksiy Danilov, the secretary of Ukraines National Security and Defense Council, told The Associated Press in an interview in Kyiv that Ukraines allies are helping the government to achieve the level of technical equipment necessary to launch the attack, delivering heavy armored vehicles and ammunition.

He expressed confidence that Ukraine will be able to return all its occupied territories.

We will defeat Russia, he said. If you have a strong inner spirit, you will definitely win. And we always had it strong. This is something that always annoyed the Russians.

___

Follow the APs coverage of the war at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine

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LONDON (AP)  The treasurer of the Scottish National Party was arrested Tuesday, police said, in a party finance probe that previously saw its executive director  the husband of former Scottish first minister and party leader Nicola Sturgeon  taken into custody.

Colin Beattie, 71, was arrested two weeks after the SNPs former former longtime executive, Peter Murrell, was questioned for nearly 11 hours before being released without charges.

Police at the time said the investigation would continue and officers returned to Murrell and Sturgeons house in Glasgow the following day to continue their search for evidence.

Scottish police have been investigating how 600,000 pounds ($745,000) designated for a Scottish independence campaign was spent.

The arrests followed Strurgeon's abrupt resignation earlier this year after eight years as party leader and first minister of Scotlands semi-autonomous government. She said that it was the right time for her, her party and her country to make way for someone else.

Sturgeon has made limited public remarks following her husbands arrest, telling reporters outside their home on Easter weekend that the previous few days had been obviously difficult, quite traumatic at times. She said she would cooperate fully with police but hadnt been questioned at that point.

Murrell resigned March 18 from the position he had held more than 20 years. He was forced to admit that the partys membership had plunged from more than 100,000 to just over 70,000 in the past year. He accepted responsibility but said there had been no intent to mislead.

Since Murrells arrest, news reports revealed that the partys auditors quit last year.

Beattie is also a member of the Scottish Parliament, serving Midlothian North and Musselburgh.

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NEW YORK (AP)  Following Mondays congressional hearing on violent crime in New York City, claims spread across social media that the bad old days are back in the nations largest city.

Conservatives and other users widely shared a video clip of New York City Councilman Robert Holden, who testified at the special hearing in Manhattan that hes never seen the lawlessness hes seen today in his lifetime.

DEMOCRAT city councilman Robert Holden has lived in New York City for 71 years, Republicans on the House Judiciary Committee that held the hearing tweeted, along with a clip of the Queens lawmakers testimony. Hes never seen crime this bad.

But experts and city officials say crime across the five boroughs is nowhere near the levels seen in the 1990s, and while there was a rise in 2022, those figures are already trending down this year.

Heres a closer look at the facts.

CLAIM: Crime in New York City is the worst its ever been, especially in the borough of Manhattan where Trump faces criminal charges.

THE FACTS: While its true that major crimes in New York City rose last year compared to 2021, criminal justice experts say crime levels were significantly higher three decades ago, and that the current levels are more comparable to where New York was a decade ago, when people frequently lauded it as Americas safest big city.

The New York Police Department and Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Braggs office, meanwhile, argue the recent surge is already receding. Through the first quarter of 2023, major crimes are down overall compared to the same period last year.

Nevertheless, the notion of a crime wave washing over the Big Apple has been a steady refrain on social media since Braggs office brought charges against former President Donald Trump, who has pleaded not guilty to 34 counts related to hush money payments during his winning 2016 campaign.

Trump and other Republicans have blamed the purported crime wave on Bragg, a progressive Democrat.

Soft on crime policies are going to ruin this great city and thats why were here today, said House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan, an Ohio Republican, during Mondays hearing, which was held near Braggs office.

Nearly four months into the new year, the concerns partly bear out: felony assaults are up about 8% and auto thefts are up around 11% compared to the same period last year, according to NYPD crime data through April 16.

But the other five so-called major crimes are all down. Murders have declined more than 6%, rapes nearly 8%, robberies nearly 3%, burglaries about 8% and grand larcenies nearly 2%.

The decline since suggests that crime is hardly skyrocketing, Jeffrey Fagan, a professor at Columbia Law School who specializes in crime and policing, wrote in an email. In fact, the pattern suggests quite the opposite.

The apparent dips come after total major crimes spiked 22% last year, from 103,388 incidents in 2021 to 126,537 in 2022.

That rise was driven by increases in six of the seven categories: rapes, robberies, felony assaults, burglaries, grand larcenies and car thefts, according to NYPD data. The lone exception was murders, which dropped 11%, from 488 in 2021 to 438 last year.

A spokesperson for the NYPD declined to comment, instead referring to a statement released earlier this month by Police Commissioner Keechant Sewell.

While we are encouraged that five of the seven index crime categories decreased in the first quarter, felony assaults and grand larceny autos remain persistent issues, she said. The NYPD will continue to address these conditions while also remaining focused on further driving down violence.

Bragg, in a statement posted on Twitter, noted last years rise in crime began before he even took office last January as the boroughs first Black district attorney.

Virtually every major crime category is lower in Manhattan now than it was last year, he wrote.

Christopher Herrmann, professor at the John Jay College of Criminal Justice and a former NYPD crime analyst, agreed with the assessment, adding that crime levels in Braggs jurisdiction are also nowhere close to the high-crime times of the 1990s.

Major crimes are, overall, down 72% from 1993 in Manhattan, according to his analysis of borough-level crime data. The 438 murders recorded citywide last year, moreover, are vastly less than the 2,262 recorded in 1990, NYPD's April 16 report shows.

Whats more, the citywide violent crime rate  the number of reported crimes divided by the citys population  has remained relatively flat over the past decade, said Jaclyn Schildkraut, executive director of the Rockefeller Institute of Governments Regional Gun Violence Research Consortium in Albany, New York.

The rate has hovered between 400 to 500 violent crimes per 100,000 residents going back to at least 2011, according to her analysis of NYPD historical crime data.

One cannot make the claim that crime is surging based on one outlier year, Schildkraut wrote in an email, referring to last year, when the rate rose to nearly 540 violent crimes per 100,000 residents.

Meanwhile Holdens chief of staff Daniel Kurzyna, in an email Tuesday, stressed the councilman never referenced crime, only lawlessness in his remarks.

In his testimony, he clearly stated that he had never seen this level of lawlessness in the city before, which he stands by, Kurzyna wrote. By lawlessness, and the Council Member had mentioned this several times on the record, including in recent interviews, is the level of anti-police rhetoric, the lack of fear of consequences, folks running red lights, e-bikes on sidewalks, rampant fare evasion and turnstile jumping, and others.

But a number of social media users  and at least one expert who testified Monday  noted that New York Citys crime levels pale in comparison to those in the home states of Republicans on the House Judiciary Committee.

Indeed in Rep. Jordans native Ohio, rates for all seven major crimes are higher than those in New York City, according to Jim Kessler, vice president for policy at Third Way, a center-left think tank in D.C., which analyzed crime data from the NYPD and Ohios Office of Criminal Justice Services.

In nearly all crime categories and in all of the states, New York City  with its population of 8.5 million sitting on a land mass of just 302 square miles  is safer, he said during Mondays congressional hearing. And ironically, Manhattan has a lower crime rate than the rest of New York City.

___

This is part of APs effort to address widely shared misinformation, including work with outside companies and organizations to add factual context to misleading content that is circulating online. Learn more about fact-checking at AP.

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WILMINGTON, Del. (AP)  Fox News agreed Tuesday to pay Dominion Voting Systems nearly $800 million to avert a trial in the voting machine companys lawsuit that would have exposed how the network promoted lies about the 2020 presidential election.

The stunning settlement emerged just as opening statements were supposed to begin, abruptly ending a case that had embarrassed Fox News over several months and raised the possibility that network founder Rupert Murdoch and stars such as Tucker Carlson and Sean Hannity would have to testify publicly.

The truth matters. Lies have consequences, Dominion lawyer Justin Nelson told reporters outside a Delaware courthouse after Superior Court Judge Eric Davis announced the deal.

Outside of the $787.5 million promised to Colorado-based Dominion, it was unclear what other consequences Fox would face. Fox acknowledged in a statement the courts rulings finding certain claims about Dominion to be false, but no apology was offered.

We are hopeful that our decision to resolve this dispute with Dominion amicably, instead of the acrimony of a divisive trial, allows the country to move forward from these issues, Fox said. Its lawyers and representatives offered no other comment or details about the settlement.

Asked by a reporter whether there was anything to this other than money, Dominion CEO John Poulos did not answer.

The deal is a significant amount of money even for a company the size of Fox. It represents about one-quarter of the $2.96 billion the company reported earning last year before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization  a figure often used to approximate a companys cash flow.

The settlement also follows a $965 million judgment issued last year against Alex Jones by a Connecticut jury for spreading false conspiracy theories about the Sandy Hook school massacre.

Coupled with other lawsuits in the pipeline, the agreement shows there is a real financial risk for conservative media that traffic in conspiracy theories. What remains unknown is how much of a deterrent this will be. Even as the Dominion case loomed this spring, Foxs Tucker Carlson aired his alternate theories about what happened at the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection.

Dominion had sued Fox for $1.6 billion, arguing that the top-rated news outlet damaged the companys reputation by peddling phony conspiracy theories that claimed its equipment switched votes from former President Donald Trump to Democrat Joe Biden. Davis, in an earlier ruling, said it was CRYSTAL clear that none of the allegations about Dominion aired on Fox by Trump allies were true.

Dominion set out to prove in the lawsuit that Fox acted with malice in airing allegations that it knew to be false, or with reckless disregard for the truth. It presented volumes of internal emails and text messages that showed Fox executives and personalities saying they knew the accusations were untrue, even as the falsehoods were aired on programs hosted by Maria Bartiromo, Lou Dobbs and Jeannine Pirro.

Records released as part of the lawsuit showed that Fox aired the claims in part to win back viewers who were fleeing the network after it correctly called hotly contested Arizona for Democrat Joe Biden on election night. One Fox Corp. vice president called them MIND BLOWINGLY NUTS.

During a deposition, Murdoch testified that he believed the 2020 election was fair and had not been stolen from Trump.

Fox knew the truth, Dominion argued in court papers. It knew the allegations against Dominion were outlandish and crazy and ludicrous and nuts. Yet it used the power and influence of its platform to promote that false story.

Several First Amendment experts said Dominions case was among the strongest they had ever seen. But there was real doubt about whether Dominion would be able to prove to a jury that people in a decision-making capacity at Fox could be held responsible for the networks actions.

Dominions Nelson called the settlement a tremendous victory and noted that there are six more lawsuits pending regarding election claims.

We settled because it was about accountability, Nelson said in an interview. Our goals were to make sure that there was accountability for the lies, and to try to make our client right. And we accomplished both goals.

Its hard to tell what the deal will mean financially for Dominion. The company would not provide its most recent earnings, saying the figures were not public.

In the weeks leading up to the trial, Davis significantly narrowed Foxs potential line of defense, including nixing the networks argument that it was merely airing newsworthy allegations. Newsworthiness is not a defense against defamation, he said.

In a March 31 ruling, he pointedly called out the network for airing falsehoods while noting that bogus election claims still persist more than two years after Trump lost his bid for reelection.

The statements at issue were dramatically different than the truth, Davis said in that ruling. In fact, although it cannot be attributed directly to Foxs statements, it is noteworthy that some Americans still believe the election was rigged.

In its defense, Fox said it was obligated to report on a president who claimed that he had been cheated out of reelection.

We never reported those to be true, Fox lawyer Erin Murphy said. All we ever did was provide viewers the true fact that these were allegations that were being made.

Dominion had sued both Fox News and its parent, Fox Corp, and said its business had been significantly damaged. Fox said the company grossly overestimated its losses, before agreeing to pay about half of what Dominion had asked for.

In a 1964 case involving The New York Times, the U.S. Supreme Court limited the ability of public figures to sue for defamation. The court ruled that plaintiffs needed to prove that news outlets published or aired false material with actual malice  knowing such material was false or acting with a reckless disregard for whether or not it was true.

That has provided news organizations with stout protection against libel judgments. Yet the nearly six-decade legal standard has come under attack by some conservatives in recent years, including Trump and Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida, who have argued for making it easier to win a libel case.

The larger importance of the settlement ... is that the high level of protection for news media in a defamation case remains intact for now, said Doreen Weisenhaus, an instructor of media law at Northwestern University.

In documents released in recent months, Fox executives and anchors discussed how not to alienate the audience, many of whom believed Trumps claims of fraud despite no evidence to back them up. Foxs Tucker Carlson suggested a news reporter be fired for tweeting a fact check debunking the fraud claims.

Some of the exhibits were simply embarrassing, such as scornful behind-the-scenes opinions about Trump, whose supporters form the core of the networks viewers. Text exchanges revealed as part of the lawsuit show Carlson declaring, I hate him passionately, and saying that we are very, very close to being able to ignore Trump most nights.

Fox News announced the settlement on Neil Cavutos afternoon news show. Its a done deal, he said. Its a settlement and for at least Fox, it appears to be over.

But Foxs legal problems may not be over. It still faces a defamation lawsuit from another voting technology company, Smartmatic. Its lawyer, Erik Connolly, said Tuesday that Dominions litigation exposed some of the misconduct and damage caused by Foxs disinformation campaign. Smartmatic will expose the rest.

___ Associated Press writers Jennifer Peltz in New York and Nicholas Riccardi in Denver contributed to this report.

___

The Associated Press receives support from several private foundations to enhance its explanatory coverage of elections and democracy. See more about APs democracy initiative here. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

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OTTAWA - The federal auditor generals officesaid Tuesday it is still assessing its mandate as it relates to a request from the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation to investigate its handling of two donations with possible links to the Chinese government.

The foundations interim board chair wrote to the office last week, saying it would welcome an investigation by auditor Karen Hogan into donations made in 2016 and 2017 that totalled $140,000.

The foundation calls itself an independent, non-partisan scholarship organization.

Its CEO and most members of its board of directors recently resigned due to what it described as the politicization of a donation from Chinese billionaire Zhang Bin and another Chinese businessman, Niu Gensheng.

In these circumstances, the foundation would welcome an investigation by the auditor general of Canada of all aspects concerning the receipt and handling of these donations by the foundation, interim board chair Edward Johnson said in a letter dated last Friday.

The foundations own independent review of the donations, to be handled by an independent law firm and accounting firm, will proceed in any case.

He also noted that when the foundation was originally created to honour the legacy of former Liberal prime minister Pierre Trudeau in 2002, it received a $125 million endowment from the federal government.

A foundation spokesperson says the organization believes it is subject to audits by the auditor general, but Hogans office says it is still looking atwhether that is the case.

We are still assessing the (Office of the Auditor General of Canadas) mandate in this matter, a spokesman said in a statement.

Asked whether it is in the scope of auditors office to investigate private donations, the spokesman added: This is part of the assessment.

According to the offices website, it investigates the activities of federal government departments and agencies, Crown corporations and the countrys three territorial governments and their agencies. It can do so through financial and performance audits.

It also lists what it will not do. Inquiries that fall explicitly outside the auditors mandate include requests to review policy decisions or to intervene in disagreements between private citizens and governments, banks or businesses.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, when asked about the controversial donation and the foundation itself, has told reporters he has not been involved in its activities for nearly a decade.

The Opposition Conservatives, however, contend the foundation that bears Trudeaus name has been a vehicle individuals used to court favour with the prime minister and those close to him. Such accusations have led current and former Liberals to accuse the Conservatives leader, Pierre Poilievre, of launching partisan attacks.

Poilievre has requested that the commissioner of the Canada Revenue Agency launch an audit into the foundation, citing a report from the Montreal-based newspaper La Presse that in trying to return the now-problematic donation, the organization discovered that the name on the cheque did not match the name of the donor.

In a letter sent last Friday, Poilievre said such reporting raises concerns about foreign interference attempts and suggests the foundation is not meeting its legal and fiduciary responsibilities as required under the Income Tax Act and reported to the Canada Revenue Agency.

Allegations of China-backed foreign interference attempts in the past two federal election campaigns have followed Trudeau for weeks.

He has assured opposition parties and other critics that former governor general David Johnston, whom he appointed to serve as a special rapporteur on the issue, will recommend in late May whether or not he should call a public inquiry into the matter.

But Poilievre has dismissed Johnstons very appointment as inappropriate, citing the former dignitarys involvement with the foundation.

Along with the Bloc Quebecois and NDP, the Conservatives are demanding that Trudeau just call a public inquiry now, rather than waiting for a recommendation.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 18, 2023.

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Doug Ford came to power promising to stop the gravy train.

Then he famously vowed to fire the Six Million Dollar Man running Hydro One.

But heres one that got away  with grand larceny  along the way:

While the premier talked up his crackdown, an obscure civil servant kept skimming and stealing tens of millions of dollars from the Ontario government. While opposition politicians and the media are forever fuming about so-called scandals  alleged and imagined  this one is the real thing, and a very big deal.

On Fords watch, under the nose of auditor general Bonnie Lysyk, under cover of COVID, Sanjay Madan made off like a bandit. While an entirely new pandemic fraud was perpetrated, not a peep from the premier.

Madan pleaded guilty this month to theft of more than $47 million. But Fords Tories have never fully explained why it took them so long to catch on.

Admittedly  if only the premier would admit it  there are no simple responses to corrupt schemes, criminal minds, or complex financial engineering. Just the simplistic bumper sticker slogans Ford deployed on the campaign trail.

In reality, in power, the premier presided over business as usual for a few more years. At great cost to the treasury.

In fairness to Ford, his government wasnt the first to fall victim to the genius-style scam, as a judge described it. Kathleen Wynne and Dalton McGuinty were in the premiers office when Madans scheming first gained momentum.

Which means Ford was in good company in failing to ferret out fraud. Except for the fact that he relentlessly lambasted the Liberal premiers who preceded him, promising to do things differently.

Promise made, overpromise unkept.

Setting aside the failings of Fords Tories, a better question is why Ontarios auditor general was asleep at the switch and the swindle. While premiers and governments came and went, Lysyks 10-year term coincided with most of the massive fraud that went undetected on her watch as provincial watchdog.

As a computer specialist at the Ministry of Education, Madan set to work pilfering the funds in 2011, exploiting lax oversight of information technology procurement for almost a decade. He wasnt caught until August of 2020 after siphoning off $10.8 million from the Support for Families pandemic relief fund under Fords Progressive Conservative government; he stole an additional $36.6 million in a fee-for-service computer consultant scheme before that.

So where was the auditor general all this time? Hunting for headlines instead of chasing crooks.

Ive gone through Lysyks massive annual reports during her decade in office. You wont find her documenting and investigating what may be among the most costly cases of corruption and criminality in recent government history  while she was on duty.

Oh, Ive read Lysyks boastful stories of sending undercover agents into casinos to check out money laundering (not much dirt); she commissioned public opinion polls to second guess the last Liberal governments global warming strategy (she got it wrong); she falsely accused Metrolinx of installing a bridge truss upside down (a physical impossibility); and she recklessly implied the Pan Am Games organizing committee had wiped computer hard drives to conceal wrongdoing (the independent privacy commissioner called out her bluster and blunder).

But value for money? Not so much from this auditor.

Lysyk claims shes been keeping an eye on this massive scandal for a while, from a distance. Oddly, shes still waiting to act  and audit  to reassure taxpayers that someone is minding the store beyond our populist premier.

No new review of procurement of such contracts is planned at this time, she told my colleague Robert Benzie. She promised her team would be taking stock of past events  in future.

Weve been in the loop from pretty much day one, Lysyk said gamely, referring to the exposure of Madans crimes in summer 2020.

In the loop? Id say out of circulation and missing in action  before, during and after the day Benzie broke this story, then followed up with coverage documenting Madans modus operandi, culminating with his conviction earlier this month.

For an auditor general whose mantra is value for money, I cant think of a more valuable money-saving undertaking than a post-mortem that spares no one. Including herself.

Why did Liberal and PC governments close their eyes to the scam? How did the auditors office fail to take account? And why is the public watchdog still waiting?

Was Lysyk so consumed by her penchant for publicity stunts that she forgot the basics of bookkeeping? Did an overstretched government fail to do due diligence at the height of the pandemic when rapid relief took precedence?

Could such lapses recur post-pandemic? Is the government so addicted to contracting out services that its letting criminals cash out without proper controls?

One reason Madan may have escaped detection: His attention to detail while others took their eyes off the ball.

Madan knew there was little scrutiny of qualified vendors providing government services below $100,000. According to court documents, an intermediary subcontracted private consulting work below the maximum daily rate (e.g. $900 a day), pocketing a hefty profit while providing a kickback to Madan.

A criminal mastermind, he seemed mindful of the need to pay the HST on corrupt consulting services. Turns out Madan was no tax cheat, he just cheated taxpayers.

How did he get away with the crime of the decade? No one was looking.

Where were the overseers? And why wasnt the watchdog keeping watch?

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Pierre Poilievre appears to have divided this country into two nations. Theres the Canada that Justin Trudeau broke, and then there is the Canada that the Conservative leader himself wants to break.

The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation definitely falls into the want-to-break category. As Trudeau put it on Monday, Poilievre despises the CBC so much that hes willing to join forces with Twitters mercurial new owner, Elon Musk.

The fact that he has to run to American billionaires for support to attack Canadians says a lot about Mr. Poilievre and his values, Trudeau said at a morning press conference.

The prime minister was referring to Twitters Sunday-night decision to label CBC as government-funded media  something Poilievre formally requested of the social media giant last week.

In reply to its new Twitter label, CBC announced later Monday that it was pausing its activity on the platform. This parallels what other publicly financed broadcasters have done in response to Musks new labelling obsession.

All of this is definitely an escalation in the battle that pits Poilievre, Musk and Twitter against the CBC. The Conservative leader, with or without Musks help, has made it clear hes been spoiling for this battle for a while now.

Last week, Poilievre treated reporters to a tantrum about CBC during a press conference in Edmonton, which was initially convened so that the Conservative leader could blame the Liberals and New Democrats for rampant crime, disorder and carnage in the nation. It did sound a bit like it was inspired by Donald Trumps famous inaugural address in 2017.

Poilievre called the CBC a biased propaganda arm of the Liberal party and challenged a Canadian Press reporter to consult the ethics commissioner before asking her question because her news organizations biggest client is CBC.

Then, since no one asked, Poilievre volunteered his views on a perfect media universe. When Im prime minister, were going to have a free press where everyday Canadians decide what they think, rather than having liberal propaganda jammed down their throats.

What many are wondering is whether this is a strategy by Poilievre or just a plain old grudge.

Jake Enwright, a former adviser to previous Conservative leaders wrote on National Newswatch that Poilievre is doing this mainly because he can.

He knows some voters will vote for him no matter what if he promises and delivers on defunding the CBC. Simultaneously, he knows that for most voters who disagree with him, the CBC probably isnt a motivating factor in determining their vote, especially given the current cost-of-living crisis.

David Coletto, CEO of Abacus Data, is a little more perplexed about the strategic value of Poilievres crusade against the CBC, and his joining of forces with Twitter and Musk.

My sense is that this isnt an issue that extends beyond a portion of CPC supporters, Coletto said in an emailed reply to me on Monday. I dont think more than 20 per cent of Canadians wake up every day and say defund the CBC. Also, keep in mind, only about one in four Canadian adults are even active on Twitter.

In a Twitter post on Monday, Coletto also asked what Twitter itself is getting out of picking a fight with the public broadcaster. Canadians far prefer Facebook to Twitter, Coletto said  with 63 per cent reporting they use it every day. So most people will likely find all this debate about it strange and confusing and probably irrelevant.

Its clearly not irrelevant to Poilievre. No one watching that scrum last week in Edmonton could help but conclude that his anti-CBC feelings run deep. Nor do I think the Conservative leader cares about what is written about him in the Toronto Star, which, judging by the mail we get from many of his followers, is seen as in the same league as CBC.

But Poilievre, one assumes, must know that his public displays of sneering contempt for the media embolden those who want to make their own kinds of threats against the media. We saw how the anti-media diatribes of the so-called Freedom Convoy made it often dangerous for journalists to wade into those crowds occupying Canadas capital last year. If public safety is among Poilievres chief concerns, presumably he is also against those who bully and threaten working journalists. And yes, that happens. It is not, as some of the convoyeurs insisted, fake news.

Musk and Poilievre share something in common  both see Twitter as an excellent place to play out grudges. The result for Musk is that many of the targets of those grudges, whether National Public Radio or the CBC, are now weighing whether the platform is even relevant to their purpose.

Poilievre may want to reflect on the relevancy of his grudges too to the larger, non-CBC-hating public. At the moment, its looking a lot like his only antidote to what he sees as a broken Canada is to break more things.

Susan Delacourt is an Ottawa-based columnist covering national politics for the Star. Reach her via email: sdelacourt@thestar.ca or follow her on Twitter: @susandelacourt

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Taking aim at conflict of interest concerns after developers attended the stag-and-doe party and wedding of one of Premier Doug Fords daughters, NDP Leader Marit Stiles is proposing more teeth for a law governing MPPs behaviour.

As leaders, we have an obligation to avoid not only a conflict of interest, but also the appearance of a conflict of interest, Stiles said Tuesday.

Her private members bill to strengthen the Members Integrity Act would ensure MPPs not accept a fee, gift or personal benefit that might reasonably be seen to have been given in connection, directly or indirectly, with the performance of the members duties of office.

Stiles said the words might reasonably be seen to cover a wider range of scenarios than existing language in the law.

The Star has previously reported guests at the $150-a-ticket party at Fords house and subsequent nuptials last year, just months before protected lands were removed from the Greenbelt, included prominent real estate developers, provincial appointees and a lobbyist.

The premier has repeatedly pushed back against criticism, stating guests were personal friends invited to Ford family celebrations and told reporters my family is separate from the political process. They arent involved.

But Stiles maintained something here just doesnt smell right.

The Liberals and Green Leader Mike Schreiner said they would support the NDP bill, which could face tough odds. The government holds a commanding majority in the legislature and could easily scuttle it at the next vote on May 10.

If your contacts in government are being used to benefit a family member, that should be against the act, said interim Liberal leader John Fraser.

Its about maintaining a level of trust and integrity in the decisions that are made by the Ontario government and this legislature, and thats why that act has to be strengthened.

Stiles acknowledged private members bills rarely pass but asked the Progressive Conservative government to support it.

If they dont, that says a lot, she said.

Ontario Integrity Commissioner J. David Wake has paused an investigation  requested by the NDP  into whether any rules were broken in relation to the stag-and-doe party and wedding to concentrate on another probe.

As the Members Integrity Act is now written, Wake said the gift rule applies only to the member who receives the gift. It does not apply to gifts received from third parties to an adult child of the member.

The other investigation by Wakes office is to determine if there were any conflicts of interest or sharing of confidential information by Municipal Affairs and Housing Minister Steve Clark in regard to the governments decision last fall to swap land out of the Greenbelt for housing.

The government plans to allow development on 7,400 acres of the Greenbelt while adding another 9,400 acres to it, in order to help build housing for the provinces growing population. Clark has said no tips were given to developers.

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Brazil on Monday gave a state reception to Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, who was placed under U.S. and European Union sanctions the day after the Kremlin launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022. According to the veteran diplomat, Moscows aim is to conclude the war as swiftly as possible. As for the process in Ukraine, we are grateful to our Brazilian friends for their excellent understanding of this situations genesis. We are grateful [to them] for striving to contribute to finding ways to settle it, Lavrov said at a press conference alongside his Brazilian counterpart, Mauro Vieira. During his visit to Brazil, Lavrov also met with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who has been at the forefront of a proposal to create a group of non-aligned nations to encourage Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelenskiy to seek a negotiated peace to end the war.

The Brazilian leader believes the time has come to end arms sales to Ukraine in favor of seeking a route toward peace based on diplomacy and negotiation. As such, he has put forward the idea of creating a G20 for peace, consisting of neutral states to encourage Moscow and Kyiv to the negotiating table. The United States needs to stop encouraging war and start talking about peace; the European Union needs to start talking about peace so that we can convince Putin and Zelenskiy that peace is in the interest of everyone and that war is only interesting, for now, to the two of them, Lula said on April 15 during a visit to Beijing.

Lula has been promoting the idea of a group of non-aligned nations in bilateral meetings and during telephone calls with the leaders of the U.S., China, France and even Zelenskiy, but his proposal so far has been met with indifference by Kyiv and its allies.

More information Russia constructs 800 km of defensive lines to head off Ukrainian counteroffensive

Lavrovs trip to South America, which will also take the diplomat to Venezuela, Cuba and Nicaragua, began just hours after a Russian court sentenced opposition leader Vladimir Kara-Murza to 25 years in jail. His reception by the Brazilian president is also likely to intensify anger toward Brasilia from Washington and the European Union, who Lula has accused of encouraging war and prolonging the conflict by arming Kyiv.

Brazil has substantively and rhetorically approached this issue by suggesting that the United States and Europe are somehow not interested in peace or that we share responsibility for the war, National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby told reporters in Washington after Lavrovs meeting with Lula and Vieira. In this case, Brazil is parroting Russian and Chinese propaganda without at all looking at the facts.

An EU spokesperson added that Russia, and only Russia, is responsible for the illegitimate and provocative aggression against Ukraine; there is no doubt who is the aggressor and who is the victim, adding that the delivery of war materiel to Kyiv is to help Ukraine exercise its right to self-defense, because otherwise Ukraine risks being destroyed.

Brazil has condemned Moscows invasion of Ukraine at the United Nations but is against sanctions and has rejected requests to provide munitions to the Ukrainian war effort. During his meeting with Lavrov, Lula criticized the sanctions imposed upon the Kremlin, which he described as unilateral and not approved by the United Nations.

Brazilian diplomacy adheres to a deep-rooted tradition of neutrality. Since the Cold War, it has always avoided aligning itself with one of the major blocs, preferring to maintain cordial relations with as many countries as possible. But now, beyond those efforts to maintain an independent profile, some of Lulas statements on the Ukraine war are ruffling feathers in the West: his remarks on the roles of the U.S., the EU and Ukraine in the war are perceived in Washington, Brussels and Kyiv as an indication that his position is slanted towards Russian interests. During his recent visit to China and Abu Dhabi, the Brazilian leader suggested Ukraine could cede Crimea  illegally annexed in 2014 by Moscow  to end the war.

Critics have argued that Brazils position aims to avoid confronting a key supplier of fertilizer for its soybean plantations, exports from which are largely destined for China. Both Russia and China hold permanent seats on the U.N. Security Council, and Brazil for decades has sought to join them. Lavrov told reporters on Monday that Russia is backing Brazils bid.

Brazils foreign minister told reporters that Russia accounts for one-quarter of the South American nations fertilizer imports, and that he and Lavrov discussed measures to guarantee its influx.

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The Giurgiu border police caught a 21-year-old Turkish citizen while attempting to enter the country with fake Italian identity documents.

"The 21-year-old man presented himself at the Giurgiu Border Crossing Point for the border control, as he was hoping to enter the country on board of a bus belonging to a passenger transport company, while presenting a fake passport and a fake identity card, both with the insignia of the Italian authorities. While studying the documents, the border police found that they did not meet the substantive and formal requirements of authentic documents, being fake. After thorough checks, no other documents were found, but the further investigations carried out by the border police established the fact that the man is a Turkish citizen," according to a press release issued on Tuesday by the Giurgiu Territorial Inspectorate of the Border Police.

The transport company received a fine, according to the legal provisions, and the person in question and the documents were handed over to the Bulgarian Border Police in order to continue the investigations, told Agerpres.
Romania was not supposed to get a single cent from the European Commission based on the calculation algorithm to support its farmers affected by grain imports from Ukraine, Agriculture Minister Petre Daea told Parliament on Tuesday, adding that the amount received of EUR 10 million was incorrect.

"Learning that the amount allocated from the reserves, EUR 56.3 million, is distributed to only three member states, and Romania is allocated the amount of EUR 10 million, I acted through all channels, requested and had meetings with the commissioner on March 17, when he unveiled to me the calculation method and the distributed amount, and based on the calculation algorithm, Romania was not supposed to get a single cent. Since I considered the amount and the calculation method to be incorrect, I asked the commissioner for an analysis with Romanian experts. That happened, and the next day the President of Romania addressed the European Council. Knowing the technical procedures regarding the drawing up of legislation at the level of the European Union institutions, I knew that the amount would be validated by a decision, which happened, and currently another amount is being considered in additional support," Daea told a meeting that discussed a parliamentary motion tabled against him.

Daea added that it informed the Permanent Representation of Romania to the European Union about the country's position regarding the amendment of Regulation (EU) 2022/870 on temporary trade-liberalisation measures supplementing trade concessions applicable to Ukrainian products.

"We are in direct contact with the European bodies and with the Ministry of Entrepreneurship and Tourism, which is an authority of the Romanian state responsible for commercial policy," Daea told the lawmakers.

He also mentioned his video conferences with the agriculture ministers of Poland, Bulgaria, Slovakia, Hungary and a senior official of the Czech Republic on the grain crisis in Ukraine, saying that they are in line with finding a common solution that is operational from a legal point of view in order to give Romanian farmers the opportunity to free storage spaces, to prepare them for the storage of the new harvest.

The minister said that an association agreement was concluded between the European Union and Ukraine that entered into force on September 1, 2017 after being ratified by the parliaments of all the EU member states, including Romania.

The agreement mainly provides for gradual economic integration, the progressive establishment of a free trade zone between the parties in accordance with the 1994 general agreement on tariffs and trade.

The Chamber of Deputies on Tuesday discussed a simple motion tabled by the Save Romania Union (USR) and the Right Force against Daea, and a vote on it was scheduled for the next day.

AGERPRES
The first trial regarding the climate in Romania, opened by the Declic Association, started in central-western Cluj-Napoca, being supported by other environmental organizations, a press release of the 2Celsius Association reads.

The Cluj Court of Appeal decided, on April 10, 2023, to reject the exceptions of the ministries that would have blocked the process and thus ordered the start of the trial on the merits. Thus, the court rejected the exception of the lack of quality of interest of Declic and the exception of the prematurity of the institution's request for a fine. These exceptions had been raised by the institutions called to court, respectively the Ministry of the Environment, Waters and Forests and the Ministry of Energy, told Agerpres.

"Furthermore, the Urgenda Foundation, which won the first trial in Europe regarding climate change, intervenes in the case in Romania opened by the Declic Association. The Climate Litigation Network (CLN), part of Urgenda Foundation, sent a letter to the Cluj Court of Appeal, through which it supports the Declic process and brings to the attention of the magistrates the jurisprudence of the courts of several European countries. The Urgenda Foundation won the first historical case in Europe regarding climate change, against the Dutch State. Moreover, the first climate process opened in Romania by the Declic Association is supported by several environmental organizations, which intervened as parties in the process. It is about Bankwatch Romania and 2Celsius," notes the source.

The next term of the process opened by the Declic Association will be on May 22, 2023.

The chairman of the 2Celsius association, Raul Cazan, believes that, in recent decades, Romania has become the graveyard of second-hand vehicles whose imports were totally encouraged by fiscal policies and government programs.

"As a result, Romania's emissions from transport are increasing, unlike other sectors of the economy. This representative action in court is the last resort of civil society, proof that our advocacy for climate action has hit the wall of an irresponsible policy," Cazan declared.

The Declic community asks the judges to compel the Government to take concrete actions to combat climate change. Furthermore, the Declic representatives request in court for the fine of prime minister Nicolae Ciuca, the minister of Energy, Virgil Popescu, and the minister of the Environment, Tanczos Barna, for each day they postpone the measures.

On this subject, Declic invoked, in the action at the Cluj Court of Appeal, the fact that the Government's inactivity affects "the right to life and the right to private life, the right to property, the right to a decent living, the right to a healthy and sustainable environment, as well as the right to a dignified future of the generations to come".

"The state has the obligation to take measures to ensure a healthy and sustainable future for all citizens," the action submitted to the Cluj Court of Appeal reads.
Forecasters warn that there is a high risk of avalanche in the Bucegi Mts. at altitudes above 1,800 meters, while below this altitude the avalanche danger is listed as moderate.

On a scale from one to five, high risk means a level 4 amount of danger, while a moderate risk is equivalent to level 2, told Agerpres.

In most of Romania's alpine areas, specifically in the Fagaras, Tarcu, Godeanu, Parang, Sureanu, Rodnei, Calimani, Bistritei and Ceahlau mountains, there is a level 3 risk of avalanche.

The highest snow depth measured at a mountain weather station, at over 2.5 meters, is recorded at Balea Lake and Omu Peak.
President Klaus Iohannis declared, on Tuesday, after the meeting with his Brazilian counterpart, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, that the message of Romania, as a neighboring state and with the longest border with Ukraine, is clear, strong and must be understood by its partners, namely the fact that no matter how much Moscow tries to justify its actions, Russia is an aggressor state.

"We presented to the President our vision regarding the security situation on Romania's border and the war of aggression launched by Russia against Ukraine. Romania's message, as a neighboring state and with the longest border among the European Union and NATO states with Ukraine, it is clear, strong and must be understood by our partners: no matter how much Moscow tries to justify its actions, Russia is an aggressor state, which violated by force the territorial sovereignty of Ukraine and tried to annul its independence, also violating the UN Charter. Ukraine is the victim of Russian aggression. All the negative effects of this aggression at the global level are the direct consequence of its action, contrary to international law. The international community has the duty to support Ukraine to reject the aggression and to win this war for the liberation of the country," the head of state said.

President Klaus Iohannis emphasized that Romania will continue "unwaveringly" to support Ukraine, showing that any support for the security of this country is, in fact, support for the security of Romania and its citizens.

The head of state specified that he also presented to his Brazilian counterpart the consequences of the war in multiple ways, from the situation of refugees to the energy or food crisis

He gave assurances that Romania supports Brazil in advancing the European Union - Brazil agenda.

"We therefore support the completion of the trade agreement between the European Union and MERCOSUR as soon as possible", said Klaus Iohannis.

He emphasized that he personally supports the efforts to organize a historic European Union - Community of Latin American and Caribbean States summit this year, with important results.

"We will get involved in the success of this event, in order to place biregional relations on a more promising and sustainable trajectory", added the head of state.

The discussions between the two presidents also covered the accession process of the two countries to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).

The Romanian head of state invited President Lula da Silva to visit Romania.

AGERPRES
The number of Ukrainian nationals hired in Romania after the outbreak of the war in their country continues to increase from one day to the next, Romanian Labour Minister Marius Budai told AGERPRES on Tuesday.

According to him, as of April 18, Romanian employers concluded 6,651 employment contracts for Ukrainians fleeing the Russian attacks.

"As of this morning, 7,885 active contracts for Ukrainian nationals are registered, including 6,651 that have come into effect when the conflict began. So, the number of contracts that have February 24 or later as their start date increased by 28 from Thursday," said Budai.

Most of the Ukrainian refugees -- 1,730 -- are working in the manufacturing industry, and 1,001 in construction. Most of them -- 2,713 -- have opted for Bucharest City, while in Bistrita-Nasaud County there are 445, in Timis County 428, in Arad County 376, and in Maramures County 332.

AGERPRES
Over 30 tonnes of plastic waste from Greece bound for Romanian commercial companies were stopped at the Giurgiu border-check point because the shipments were not accompanied by cross-border transfer documents.

"At the Giurgiu Border Crossing Point, on the way into Romania, two road vehicles consisting of a tractor unit and a semi-trailer, driven by a Romanian citizen, aged 46, and a Turkish citizen aged 53, showed up for customs clearing. The drivers were shipping plastic waste from Greece bound for a commercial company in Romania. There being suspicions about the legality of these shipments, the border police requested authorised support from the commissioners of the Giurgiu County National Environmental Guard. Checks revealed a total amount of 35,830 kilograms of plastic waste in the two vehicles," according to the Giurgiu border crossing authorities.

The checks also revealed that under the cross-border transfer documents presented the shipments failed to meet the conditions for entering Romania, which is why their access to Romania was denied, told Agerpres.
The Social Democratic Party announced on Tuesday in a press release sent to Agerpres that it would request the ruling coalition to temporarily suspend imports of agri-food products from Ukraine.

"PSD will request in the governing coalition the adoption of a political decision ordering the Romanian Government to issue as a matter of urgency a piece of legislation for the temporary suspension of imports of agri-food products from Ukraine, just as it happened in the other states that have a common border with this country. Such a measure is necessary to protect Romanian farmers, in the context in which the compensations received from the European Commission cannot cover the total amount of damages suffered by them," the source said.

According to the PSD, the Eastern European states that have been affected should have "a joint negotiation with the representatives of the European Commission and the Ukrainian side", so that the support measures for Ukraine's agriculture do not affect the interests of farmers from neighbouring countries, told Agerpres.

"At the same time, PSD considers that Romania must continue to support Ukraine by facilitating the transit of agri-food products from this country to other states in the European Union or to the trade routes on the Black Sea," the release adds.
PRESIDENCY:

- President Klaus Iohannis kicks off official visit to Brazil (18-19 April)

CHAMBER OF DEPUTIES:

- Debate on simple motion dubbed "From the breadbasket of Europe to the shame of Europe. Minister Daea destroys with good knowledge the Romanian agriculture", initiated by the Save Romania Union and the Force of the Right parties

ECONOMY:

- Central bank releases Minute of BNR Board reunion on monetary policy topics of 4 April 2023
American intelligence agencies spied on the Gulf Cartel last March after four U.S. citizens were kidnapped in the Mexican city of Matamoros, in the border state of Tamaulipas, according to The Washington Post, which has had access to classified documents and recordings from U.S. authorities. The news comes a few days after it was revealed that the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) had infiltrated the Mexican criminal group Los Chapitos, a faction of the Sinaloa Cartel that is controlled by the sons of Joaquin El Chapo Guzman. The revelations have heightened tension between the U.S. and Mexico, which has condemned the DEAs actions as an abusive interference.

The four American citizens entered Mexico on March 3. Their families told U.S. media that one of the women had scheduled cosmetic surgery in Mexico, and her three friends had joined her on the trip. But upon entering Matamoros, the four got lost and drove around the city until several vehicles began to follow them. Videos shared on social networks showed a shooting and then the group  three of whom were unconscious  being loaded into a truck by armed men, who drove off. Four days later, authorities found the Americans  two alive and two dead  in a wooden shed on the outskirts of Matamoros, near Playa Bagdad.

The wooden shack in which the U.S. citizens were found on March 7, 2023 in Playa Bagdad (Tamaulipas). DANIEL BECERRIL (REUTERS)

During the days that the Americans were missing, the FBI announced a reward of $50,000 for anyone who could provide information leading to their whereabouts. The White House condemned the kidnapping, and National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said: Attacks on U.S. citizens are unacceptable, no matter where or under what circumstances they occur. Now it has been revealed that during this period, U.S. authorities also tracked members of the Gulf Cartel, who were suspected of kidnapping the tourists.

According to the leaked information to which the Post had access, the U.S. wiretapped conversations between members of the Gulf Cartel. In these talks, the cartel members discussed how the Mexican armed forces might respond to the kidnapping, flagging possible arrests and a rise of violence in Matamoros. In the intercepted conversations, the criminal organization also spoke to affiliated lawyers, who told them to remove all information related to the kidnapping from their cellphones.

The classified documents on the U.S. wiretaps were leaked along with other confidential files  such as military reports on the war in Ukraine  on Discord, a messaging application similar to Slack or Microsoft Teams that is popular among video game fans. With respect to the information from Mexico, the documents indicate that the U.S. tourists were attacked in retaliation for an alleged hit-and-run incident, according to The Washington Post. The wiretaps  which were authorized by the U.S. Justice Department  state that it was the criminals themselves who handed over the group to the Mexican authorities.

One of the two kidnapping survivors in an ambulance, on March 7, 2023. Str (Str)

This last piece of information is in line with what the two survivors told CNN in an interview upon their return to the U.S. Latavia McGee and Eric James Williams said that their captors left them in a wooden shack on March 6, where they were found a day later by Mexican security forces. Mexican authorities have not explained why they searched the shack on the morning of March 7, given the site had already been cleared. McGee and Willliams also said that one of the kidnappers admitted that the attack had been a mistake, made under the influence of drugs and alcohol.

From the start, the Matamoros case threatened to spark a diplomatic crisis. The kidnapping triggered widespread criticisms from the Republican Party, which was directed at both the Joe Biden administration and the Mexican government of Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. Members of the partys most far-right wing even proposed a bill that would enable the U.S. military to deploy troops on Mexican territory and label cartels as terror organizations.

These attacks were not well-received by Mexican authorities. The kidnapping marked the start of a tense few weeks between Mexico and the U.S., with drug trafficking as the central issue of contention. Just a few days ago, the DEA revealed that it had proactively infiltrated the Sinaloa Cartel and the Chapitos network, which is accused of trafficking fentanyl into the United States.

How can they be spying? Lopez Obrador asked Monday in his daily press conference, arguing the actions amounted to arrogant and abusive interference that mustnt be accepted under any circumstances.

The Mexican president has been insisting for months that U.S. authorities cannot carry out investigations on Mexican territory, as they did under other previous governments. There cant be foreign agents in our country, he said on Monday, adding that while he will not accept any outside meddling in national security, he is open to negotiation.

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TUESDAY, April 18, 2023 (HealthDay News) -- Most people think of joint pain when they think of arthritis but, depending on the type of arthritis, other symptoms can crop up.

Here's how to spot some of the most common signs of different types of arthritis.

Arthritis can cause painful symptoms that make daily activities challenging, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS).

Dr. Paul DeMarco, NIAMS Rheumatoid Fellowship Training Program director, explained that it is extremely important to understand the type of arthritis afflicting the sufferer, as some arthritis syndromes have effects throughout the body.

To help you better understand just how arthritis can affect the body, here is a list of eight of the most common types:

Inflammatory arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis

Osteoarthritis

Gout

Juvenile arthritis

Infectious arthritis

Reactive arthritis

Here are some common arthritis symptoms, broken down by the type of arthritis the patient has:

Inflammatory arthritis symptoms

Inflammatory arthritis occurs when an overactive immune system causes joint inflammation, according to the Hospital for Special Surgery (HHS), in New York City.

Symptoms of inflammatory arthritis include:

Pain and stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity

Warm sensations in and around affected joints

Joint swelling and redness

Inflammation of the skin or internal organs

These symptoms are often experienced as strong flare-ups, followed by a period of inactivity.

Psoriatic arthritis symptoms

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a type of inflammatory arthritis, and it usually happens to people with psoriasis, according to NIAMS.

Psoriatic arthritis symptoms include:

Joint stiffness, pain and swelling, especially in the morning

Eye inflammation

Fatigue

Soreness in spots where tendons attach to bones

Inflammatory bowel disease

Nail crumbling, separating or denting

Flaky, swollen patches of skin

"PsA is usually not found on the same joints on both sides of the body, so it is asymmetric, DeMarco noted.

Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms

Rheumatoid arthritis is also a type of inflammatory arthritis. More specifically, its an autoimmune disease, meaning the immune system attacks its own joint tissues. It can occur throughout the body, but usually affects the hands, wrists and feet, according to NIAMS.

Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms include:

Joint stiffness that lasts longer than half an hour

Joint pain and inflammation

Fatigue

Loss of appetite

Mild fever

Nodules, or lumps beneath the skin

Medical issues in the lungs, heart, skin, nerves and eyes

Unlike PsA, rheumatoid arthritis typically occurs in the same joints on both sides of the body.

Osteoarthritis symptoms

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, affecting over 32 million U.S. adults, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Its caused by wear and tear on joint cartilage as people age.

Symptoms tend to occur more slowly over time, first occurring every now and then, and then becoming more chronic, Scripps Clinic rheumatologist Dr. Kavitta Allem said in a recent interview for San Diego Health.

NIAMS states that osteoarthritis symptoms may include:

Joint stiffness that lasts less than half an hour

Pain and swelling during and immediately after activity

Unstable sensations in the joints

Scraping noises when walking, particularly in the knees

Radiating pain down the legs

Stiffness in the lower back and neck

Bone spurs (enlargements) in the hands

Difficulty standing and sitting

Fatigue, insomnia and depression

Gout symptoms

Gout is also a type of inflammatory arthritis, caused by too much uric acid in the blood. This triggers crystals to form on the joints. The CDC states that it usually affects just one joint at a time, usually in a foot, ankle, or knee.

Gout symptoms include:

Intense pain

Swelling

Inflammation and warmth

The joints that have gout, the symptoms come on very suddenly, generally over the course of a night, Allem noted.

Juvenile arthritis symptoms

The Arthritis Foundation explains that juvenile arthritis is a group of arthritis conditions that affect children under the age of 16.

Although symptoms may vary, here are some of the most common:

Joint pain, tenderness, stiffness and warmth, especially after a period of inactivity

Eye inflammation

Skin rashes

High fever

Fatigue

Loss of appetite

Shortness of breath (when the lungs are affected)

Diarrhea and bloating (when the digestive tract is affected)

Infectious arthritis symptoms

Infectious arthritis (septic arthritis) is caused by a bacterial, viral or fungal infection of the joint tissues and fluids. More children are affected than adults, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

The symptoms of infectious arthritis include:

Fever

Joint tenderness, inflammation, warmth and pain

Limited range of motion

Reactive arthritis symptoms

NIAMS states that reactive arthritis occurs due to an infection, but symptoms dont start until the infection is cleared up. They may include:

Joint pain and stiffness, especially in the lower limbs

Eye and urinary tract inflammation

Inflamed fingers and toes

Fever

Fatigue

Skin rash

Abdominal pain and diarrhea

Nails that thicken

Weight loss

Mouth ulcers

When to seek help for arthritis symptoms

If youre feeling swelling or pain in your joints, or something is limiting your ability to be active, you should see a doctor, Allem explained. There are new treatments for arthritis to help you feel better and get back to what you enjoy.

SOURCE: Paul DeMarco, MD, Rheumatoid Fellowship Training Program director, U.S. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
Joe Holleman Joe Holleman is a reporter for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Follow Joe Holleman Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today

Cori Bush said yes  to keeping her husband on the payroll.

For more than a month, the Democrat congresswoman from St. Louis declined to say whether she would continue to pay Cortney Merritts, whom she married in mid-February, for providing security services.

But when the latest Federal Election Commission finance reports came in on April 15, Bush's filing showed she indeed plans to continue the business relationship with her personal partner.

Late Tuesday, and after six weeks of not responding to media inquiries, the campaign finally sent an email confirming Merritts' place on the campaign payroll.

Raw data included with the April 15 report to the Federal Election Commission shows post-nuptial payments were made to "Merritts" for security services: payments of $2,500 on both Feb. 15 and March 14.

Merritts also was paid twice shortly before the wedding, with $2,500 payments on Jan. 19 and Feb. 6, according to the reports that cover the first three months of 2023.

In 2022, Merritts was paid $62,359 by Bush's campaign for security services, according to FEC records.

Since the issue arose, Bush's congressional office has maintained that Merritts is not paid by the U.S. Congress, but by her campaign, and has referred questions to an email address for Bushs campaign.

On Tuesday, the campaign committee responded with a statement:

"The campaign has paid Mr. Merritts for bona fide services provided to the campaign, and not for personal use or personal purposes," the statement said.

The statement echoes FEC rules, which do not contain a blanket prohibition on candidates employing family members.

The rule states that campaign funds may be used to pay family members, as long it is for a bona fide service and reflect the fair market value.

In all, the latest campaign report shows the Bush campaign raised about $144,000 in the first three months of 2023, and spent about $111,000.

In her two years in Congress, Bush has drawn criticism for the amount of money she spends on private security while also being one of the most vocal advocates for a movement to defund the police.

From January 2021 through 2022, Bush's campaign paid a total of $557,676 for security services.

According to the latest FEC report, Bush has paid a total of $43,500 for security services in the first quarter of 2023, which is almost 40% of Bush's overall spending during that period.

Along with paying her husband $10,000, she also has paid Peace Security about $18,500, and $15,000 to Nathaniel Davis.

And the Bush-Merritts arrangement also is the subject of two pending complaints filed last month with the FEC.

A conservative political-action committee, Committee to Defeat the President, called Bush's campaign fund her "personal piggy bank" and has alleged that Merritts employment violates two federal campaign laws.

The Foundation for Accountability and Civic Trust also has filed a similar FEC complaint.

The complaints allege that the Bush campaign has improperly converted campaign funds to personal use; and has fraudulently reported a false purpose for campaign disbursements.

The FEC does not comment on complaints, a spokesman said.

US Rep. Cori Bush of St. Louis says she opposes TikTok ban Her position puts her at odds with Missouris U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley, who has championed such a ban in Congress.

Missouris US legislators send money home, demand COVID facts While U.S. Rep. Cori Bush secures $82.2 million in 2022 flood relief, U.S. Sen. Josh Hawleys bill to declassify COVID-19 information hits presidents desk.

Holleman: Cori Bush wedding spurs federal complaints from two political groups Committee to Defeat the President has filed complaint with Federal Election Commission alleging that Bushs employment of husband violates U.S. campaign laws.

Congresswoman Cori Bush of St. Louis marries member of campaign security team Bushs office reported Sunday that Bush has married Cortney Merritts  a security specialist who was paid more than $62,000 in 2022 by Bush's campaign in 2022.
Tony Messenger Tony Messenger is the metro columnist for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Follow Tony Messenger Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo.  For Katie Earnhart, the first hint came in November 2021.

Earnhart is the public library director in this southeast Missouri city. Shes been here for five years, having moved from her native Kansas. Two falls ago, police officers walked into her 100-year-old library asking to see some books.

Some citizens had complained about obscene material in the teen collection, related to LGBTQ themes. The police looked at some books, took some notes.

Nothing happened, Earnhart said.

The attacks on the library, in Cape Girardeau and throughout the state, were just beginning. Most of them emanated from Republicans inside the Missouri Capitol.

For some reason, the GOP has labeled librarians as Public Enemy No. 1, following attacks during the pandemic on nurses, teachers and public health workers  and seemingly anybody who stood up for the health of fellow human beings.

Last week, the Missouri Republicans who have a supermajority in the House defunded libraries. They erased about $4.5 million in funding for the states 160 public library districts. Its mostly a symbolic move, as Senate leaders have indicated they plan to put the money back, and most library funding comes from local taxpayers. But it isnt a move without harm, and it is but one battle in an all-out war against libraries.

On his own, and against a wave of public opinion, Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft wrote a new state rule that could put some funding for libraries in jeopardy and make it easier for citizens to ban books they find objectionable.

Last year, the Legislature passed a bill that Republicans said was intended to remove pornography from school libraries, even though such rules already existed in state law. The law was so broad that it caused some school districts to remove books from shelves to avoid legal liability. The ACLU, Missouri Library Association and Missouri Association of School Librarians have filed a lawsuit seeking to declare the new law unconstitutional.

Its so disappointing, Earnhart says of the attacks against libraries. I find it incredibly frustrating that theyre using this as a tactic for their political theater at the expense of the libraries who serve Missouris citizens. Were being used as a pawn.

Indeed, the real targets of Republicans are people in marginalized communities, including people of color and LGBTQ residents  particularly transgender people, who have become the partys punching bag.

Since that first attack in November 2021, right-wing community activist groups have challenged books at the Cape Girardeau library multiple times. Its usually the same three books, Earnhart says: Gender Queer, by Maia Kobabe; The V-Word, by Amber J. Keyser; and This Book is Gay, by Juno Dawson.

Each time somebody complains, Earnhart puts the books through the long-established process, guided by First Amendment case law, in which a committee examines the so-called questionable material and makes a recommendation to the library board. The result is the same every time: The books remain on the shelf.

Kristen Sorth, executive director of the St. Louis County Library, says the Republican attacks on libraries are particularly damaging in rural communities, where the staffs are smaller and have fewer resources.

Libraries are a vital resource for all communities but particularly in rural areas where they may be the only location with reliable internet access, Sorth said. State aid makes up a larger percentage of the budgets for rural libraries, so the impact will be felt by those libraries and their patrons more significantly, particularly if they receive federal matching dollars which would also be impacted.

In the case of the Cape Girardeau library, if the state cuts were to stand, Earnhart would lose about $26,000 a year. That money has been used recently for mobile hot spots for people who dont have Internet access, as well as popular audio and e-book platforms.

One of the things that makes the cut so particularly hurtful to Earnhart is that one of her former board members voted for it. State Rep. John Voss, R-Cape Girardeau, defended the local library during a bitter primary he won last fall. But as a member of the budget committee in the House, he voted to cut the library money, unwilling to stand up to the anti-LGBTQ freight train.

Republicans are trying to punish librarians for standing up for constituents and defending the First Amendment, but they cant find the courage to do so themselves.

This sort of thing comes in waves, Earnhart notes of book banning.

But the current trend is as bad as many library professionals have seen. Hopefully, just like all the times in the past, well come out of this, she said. I just dont know when it will be.
JEFFERSON CITY  Legislators in the Missouri House have approved a measure allowing concealed carry permit holders to possess firearms on public transportation.

The Republican-dominated chamber approved the legislation late Monday, over the objections of Democrats, who criticized the bill in the wake of a Kansas City shooting in which an 84-year-old man shot a 16-year-old who knocked on his front door last week, as well as a recent shooting on the St. Louis MetroLink.

In Kansas City, the teen, Ralph Yarl, was recovering at home Monday. Andrew Lester, the white man who shot the Black teen, was charged with armed assault in the case.

A child was gunned down for ringing a doorbell, said Rep. Ashley Aune, D-Kansas City. We fight so hard in this room for more guns in more places, and we forget about the actual lives lost.

In the MetroLink case, a gunman fired a single shot on a train packed with Cardinals fans in the Metro East on Thursday night. The victim was acting erratically after boarding the train in St. Louis, a law enforcement official said last week.

There is nothing criminal about erratic behavior, said Rep. Richard Brown, D-Kansas City.

The nation is looking at Missouri. ... And then we go and we pass something like this?

Rep. Adam Schnelting, R-St. Charles, said people were already bringing guns onto public transit.

Risk is inherent in our freedom, he said. I stand by the would-be victims, and the victims, who simply want to be able to defend themselves against the perpetrators of violence and crime.

The legislation also repeals a part of state law that bars concealed carry permit holders from carrying in places of worship without the consent of the religious organizations leadership.

The latest plan for guns on public transit  a concept that has been proposed, debated and eventually abandoned for years  now moves to the Senate for consideration. The legislative session ends May 12.

The legislation is House Bill 282.
LINCOLN COUNTY  Gov. Mike Parson has appointed a successor to retiring Lincoln County Circuit Judge Patrick Flynn, who was reprimanded by the Missouri Supreme Court last October for handling cases too slowly.

Parson on Friday promoted Associate Circuit Judge James Beck to replace Flynn, who announced in January he would leave the bench on June 30  a year and a half before the end of his six-year term.

Flynn, in his retirement letter to Parson, didnt mention the reprimand. Flynns letter also made no reference to the lengthy court fight he has had with then-Circuit Court Clerk Karla Allsberry over his previous effort to suspend her and ban her from the courthouse.

Flynn, 60, could not be reached for comment Monday.

The Supreme Court, in reprimanding Flynn last fall, acted on the recommendation of the state Commission on Retirement, Removal and Discipline.

The commission said numerous cases were left undecided for an unacceptable period of time, including two that had been pending for more than two years.

The panel also said Flynn had been late in filing required reports to the state on cases pending for 90 days or more.

The commission said it found unpersuasive suggestions by Flynn that assignments outside his circuit, the pandemic, his regular workload or disharmony in the Lincoln County courthouse relieved him of obligations to litigants, attorneys or the Supreme Court.

In the separate issue regarding Allsberry, Flynn had said he stripped her of her authority to hire and fire in 2019 out of concern for the operation of the clerks office. She had said Flynn was attempting to sabotage her office.

The Supreme Court in 2021 ruled that Flynn had acted improperly in trying to oust Allsberry. A circuit judge in Jefferson City later found Flynn in contempt for interfering with her duties.

Allsberry was defeated in the Republican primary last August by Kathy Hall, who went on to win the office in the November general election.

Flynn, also a Republican, had supported Allsberrys opponent in the 2018 election and had been defeated in a previous judicial election by Allsberrys husband, Gregory Allsberry. Flynn denied having any political motive.

Gregory Allsberry, an associate circuit judge, lost his reelection bid in the GOP primary last year.
ST. LOUIS  A judge on Monday filed to hold St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kimberly M. Gardner in contempt of court after prosecutors from her office didnt show up for a murder trial.

Jonathon Jones, 18, was set to face trial starting Monday on charges he shot and killed a man in 2021 near the Gateway Arch grounds, but no one from Gardners office appeared for the beginning of trial. The prosecutor assigned to the case is on sick leave.

Judge Scott A. Millikan filed an order for Gardners office to show cause for why she should not be held in criminal contempt and ordered to pay a fine or face jail time.

This conduct thwarts and defeats the authority of the Circuit Court of the City of St. Louis, the judge wrote.

His filing comes on the eve of a hearing Tuesday where Gardners attorneys are expected to argue why a lawsuit seeking her removal should be dismissed. The lawsuit, filed by Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey, argues Gardner has repeatedly failed at her job as the citys top prosecutor.

Gardners office has faced years of criticism for understaffing and organizational dysfunction. Several hearings in recent months have been delayed because no one from Gardners office showed up to argue them, and in 2021, a murder case was dismissed altogether because a prosecutor failed to show up for trial. Authorities later learned the prosecutor had been assigned 30 cases while on maternity leave.

And the office has a dwindling number of staffers to call for help. In recent weeks, multiple prosecutors who handle the citys most serious felonies have left Gardners office, including one who wrote of a toxic work environment in her resignation letter. Just four prosecutors are now handling hundreds of violent felony cases in the city while the prosecutor assigned to Jones case is on medical leave.

In Jones case, prosecutors charged the then-17-year-old in September 2022 alongside Mark Perry, 37, in the fatal shooting of 29-year-old Brandon Scott. Scott was found dead in the drivers seat of a blue Dodge Charger on steps leading to the arch grounds, according to court documents. Police found two different types of shell cases at the scene.

Jones attorney filed a motion in December invoking his right to a speedy trial, which in Missouri requires him to face trial within 120 days of his arraignment. That deadline is set to expire April 26, according to court documents.

But as of Monday, the first day of trial, neither the judge nor defense attorney had received any information from the circuit attorneys office regarding this matter, according to court documents. The defense attorney and Jones appeared in court Monday, but no prosecutor arrived.

Jones attorney asked the judge to dismiss the case or for her client to be released on bond while the case proceeds. Millikan took those requests under advisement.

The next step in the contempt filing is for Gardner to appear in court next Monday, April 24, and argue why she should not be held in contempt of court.

A spokeswoman for Gardner did not immediately respond to a request for comment Monday.

Tuesdays hearing in the suit to remove Gardner from office is set to begin at 1:30 p.m. in a city courtroom. Multiple city agencies, the Circuit Attorneys Office and its employees and the courts have been subpoenaed to provide information for the investigation.

Missouri Court of Appeals Judge John Torbitzky, who was appointed to preside over the case, is expected to hear arguments about subpoenas and Gardners motion to dismiss the suit. He could also set a timeline for evidence collection and future hearings.
ST. LOUIS  St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kimberly M. Gardner and multiple lawyers are set to appear in court Tuesday for the first time to respond to a lawsuit by Missouri's attorney general seeking to remove Gardner from office.

Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey sued Gardner in February, arguing the city's top prosecutor has "lost the trust of the people" and "squandered the goodwill of the courts through misdirection and incompetence." Gardner has argued his allegations don't meet the threshold for removal and blamed any problems on her subordinates.

On Tuesday, representatives for both parties will appear at 1:30 p.m. in a city courtroom to argue over Gardner's motions to dismiss the suit and quash subpoenas. So far, multiple city agencies, the Circuit Attorney's Office and its employees and the courts have been subpoenaed to provide information for the investigation.

Attorneys are also expected to discuss a timeline for evidence collection and a trial.

Presiding over the hearing will be Missouri Court of Appeals Judge John Torbitzky, who was appointed to oversee the case after St. Louis Circuit Court judges recused themselves because they could be called as witnesses.

Gardner has faced criticism for years over dysfunction and understaffing in her office, but the complaints came to a head in February when a 17-year-old volleyball player from Tennessee was caught in a crash downtown that resulted in both of her legs being amputated. Police blamed the crash on a man who was a suspect in a pending robbery case. He was out of jail despite violating his bond dozens of times.

Bailey filed suit that month to remove Gardner, arguing she had failed in her job as a prosecutor. Gardner accused Bailey of using the tragedy for political gain.

On Monday, a judge filed to hold Gardner in contempt of court after no one from her office showed up for a murder trial that was set to begin this week. Judge Scott A. Millikan argued the failure "thwarts and defeats the authority of the Circuit Court of the City of St. Louis." A hearing on that order to show cause for why she should not be held in contempt is set for next week.
JEFFERSON CITY  The Missouri House gave preliminary approval Tuesday to a $2.3 billion construction spending package that could jump-start the widening of Interstate 70, retool college campuses and replace an aging youth jail in the St. Louis region.

On a voice vote, the House moved closer to forwarding the brick-and-mortar projects to the Senate with less than a month to go before the legislative session is set to end.

Senate budget writers also began their work on the nearly $50 billion operational budget Tuesday, promising changes to the House version including the restoration of money for libraries and the removal of language prohibiting state agencies from spending money on diversity and inclusion programs.

The cornerstone of the House construction budget is an $859 million line-item sought by Gov. Mike Parson to widen three busy sections of I-70, including a stretch between Wentzville and Warrenton.

Motorists have complained for years that the traffic-choked corridor across Missouris midsection needs to be wider than its current two lanes to handle passenger vehicles and trucks hauling freight.

The I-70 project could grow. Under a plan announced by Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Lincoln Hough, R-Springfield, the Senate will consider a plan to widen the entire stretch to at least three lanes in each direction at a cost of $2.8 billion.

Of that amount, the state would pay $1.4 billion in revenue for the widening this year and then take out loans to pay for the remainder over 15 years at an annual cost of about $130 million.

Hough called the plan transformative and said the state currently has virtually no debt, meaning it is a good time to sell bonds to support the project.

The state is currently sitting on a surplus estimated at about $5 billion. And new revenue figures show the state could add another $1 billion in unspent tax receipts before the end of the fiscal year, giving budget writers even more of a cushion heading into the final weeks of the legislative session.

The spending package contains a number of wish list projects in the St. Louis area, including $20 million to the University of Missouri-St. Louis to remake the campus footprint.

The money will help pay for the creation of a more centralized academic core north of Natural Bridge Road and a health sciences campus to the south.

Similarly, St. Louis Community College would receive $21 million for new facilities at its Wildwood campus, including more space for job training in health care and technology.

The money will help the college expand its nursing program.

The Missouri National Guard will get $20 million to build a new military staging facility in Bellefontaine Neighbors. The facility will provide more storage, training and maintenance capabilities for the National Guard.

And $13 million has been set aside for a new police facility in St. Louis that includes a new 911 call center and a day care facility to help recruit and retain workers at the hard-to-staff department.

The package includes a number of smaller projects that affect the area, including a $3 million outlay to help remodel Powell Symphony Hall.

The money will help the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra fund a portion of a 65,000-square-foot expansion of the 1920s-era Grand Center building estimated to cost more than $100 million.

The Department of Social Services will receive $7.2 million to replace the aging Hogan Street Youth Facility, which houses teens who have broken the law.

A last-minute addition to the spending blueprint includes $4 million to help demolish abandoned homes and clean up trash in Kinloch, located east of Lambert St. Louis International Airport.

Lawmakers also inserted $2.7 million into the plan to repair the massive bronze doors in the Capitol, which have not been in operation for several years.

Along with an infusion of money for the state park system, the measure includes $6 million to transform a former Route 66 bridge over the Meramec River into a pedestrian and biking trail at Route 66 State Park near Eureka.

On a narrow 72-71 vote, the House added $5 million to the plan to begin developing some sections of the Rock Island Trail pedestrian path. Last year, the House endorsed $69 million for the expansion, but it was cut out of the budget by the Senate.

The former railroad line would run from Beaufort to Windsor, crossing the Gasconade and Osage rivers.

It will be a bucket list tourist destination, said Rep. Bruce Sassman, an Osage County Republican.

Opponents argued that the state park system has millions of dollars in maintenance needs that should be completed before a new park is developed.

The legislation is House Bill 19.
JEFFERSON CITY  Months after a Chinese spy balloon made a jarring journey over the U.S., the Missouri Senate has approved legislation limiting foreign ownership of agricultural land.

As part of a bipartisan effort in both the House and Senate, the legislation would reduce the current 1% of Missouri farmland that can be owned by foreign entities to 0.5%. The bill also prohibits a foreign entity from acquiring agricultural land in the state after Aug. 28, 2023.

The measure, approved Monday on a 31-3 vote, now returns to the House for further debate.

Under the proposal, all foreign entities would be required to report future sales, acquisitions or land transfers to the Missouri attorney general and secretary of states offices.

Were not going to allow for foreign ownership in the state of Missouri, said Sen. Rick Brattin, R-Harrisonville, who handled the measure in the Senate. We have to draw a line in the sand today. It protects our sovereignty as a nation.

Not everyone was on board.

Sen. Lincoln Hough, R-Springfield, argued that the proposed law would unfairly limit landowners from selling their property.

Im just a little lost here today as to how we have transformed this conversation of foreign entities owning our properties into the removal of individual rights, Hough said. I dont want to disenfranchise property owners.

Youre trying to muddy the waters, Brattin said in response.

The push to limit foreign ownership of farmland in Missouri has been under consideration for the past five years as China has increasingly become viewed as an aggressor more than a trade ally. It gained renewed momentum following the balloon incident, during which a massive inflated surveillance vehicle hovered over Missouri for a time, and was then shot down by a military strike off the coast of South Carolina days later.

And the ownership issue has become political fodder in the 2024 race for governor. Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft, who is running for the post, weighed in after the vote.

I am grateful for the efforts of both chambers who participated in moving this forward, the Republican said in a statement. This bill forbids foreign companies and known enemies of the United States  countries like China  who do not have our best interest in mind, from buying agricultural land in Missouri. Regulating foreign land ownership is necessary to better protect Missourians.

The proposal is a reversal of a 2013 change in law that paved the way for Chinese-owned Smithfield Foods to own property in the state.

The measure is opposed by influential and well-funded lobbying groups in Missouri, including the Missouri Association of Realtors and the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Like Hough, the trade groups said government should stay out of the way of private business transactions.

The bill also would prohibit five countries from owning any land in Missouri, including China, Russia, Iran, North Korea and Venezuela. More countries could be added under an ongoing review process laid out in the bill.

A Missouri Department of Agriculture analysis found that the state total of foreign-owned agriculture land is 0.36%, with China owning an estimated 42,596 acres, and New Zealand owning 16,271 acres. No land in Missouri is currently owned by Iran, Russia, Venezuela or North Korea.

The legislation is House Bill 903.
ST. LOUIS  Planned Parenthood held a pop-up clinic at its Central West End location on Monday for people seeking gender-affirming care, 10 days before new rules that would make Missouri the first state to greatly restrict care for transgender adults go into effect.

Doors opened at 8 a.m. Two hours later, the more than two dozen time slots were filled for the day, and another dozen people made appointments for later this week.

This is a last-ditch effort to not lose access to care Ive been getting for a large part of my life, said Emmett Campbell, 19, a sophomore at Washington University. He visited the pop-up clinic to get a prescription for testosterone.

Planned Parenthood also filled extra appointments for gender-affirming care at its Fairview Heights and Springfield, Missouri, clinics on Monday; administrators have added more than 200 appointment slots at all three clinics to try and handle demand before the new rules kick in April 27.

Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey, a Republican, filed an emergency regulation Thursday, under consumer protection laws, claiming such medical treatments are experimental and provided without adequate mental health care.

The new rules require a long checklist before receiving care, including three years of medically documented gender dysphoria, 15 therapy sessions over the course of at least 18 months, and the treatment and resolution of all mental health conditions.

Campbell has been taking testosterone since he was 14 and said he was looking for a new doctor to prescribe him the medication when Bailey announced the new rules. His endocrinologist back home in Tennessee had left her job because of that state's recent ban on gender-affirming medical care for minors.

With just three weeks left of his current prescription, Campbell cried when he heard the news.

Terrifying is an understatement, he said.

Dr. Colleen McNicholas, chief medical officer for the St. Louis regions Planned Parenthood, provided care to walk-in patients Monday.

Some came, she said, because their medical providers have stopped offering gender-affirming care; others were wanting to start the process, while some were seeking to resume treatment.

So many patients today have said this therapy for them has been life-saving, McNicholas said. It is important to do what we can to make sure they get that care.

Baileys spokeswoman, Madeline Sieren, did not respond to a reporters request to interview Bailey about the rules.

When the proposed rules were first announced a few weeks ago, they only applied to minors. Republican-led state legislatures across the country this year have moved to restrict gender-affirming care for minors, arguing little is known on the long-term impacts.

We believe everyone is entitled to evidence-based medicine and adequate mental health care, Sieren said Friday, after the rules were filed.

Fast-forwarding plans

Iz Silva, 20, of Kirkwood, was not able to be seen at Mondays walk-in clinic but left with a smile after getting an appointment for Thursday.

Silva uses they/them pronouns and was planning to start testosterone this summer, when they had a break between community college classes and trying to get into a nursing program. The emergency regulations sped up their plans.

Though they're happy to get an appointment before April 27, Silva said, That doesnt stop me from being scared.

Jahkayla Moore, 36, of St. Louis, said she has identified as a woman for nearly 20 years.

I only put on male clothes for my mom, she said.

That changed by the time she was 21 and living on her own.

But the hair, clothes and makeup havent been enough for others to accept her, she said. Moore came to the clinic because she felt like it was her last chance to finally receive hormone treatment with estrogen; without health insurance, she has never been able to afford it.

Am I living my life? No, because I get ridiculed every day when I go out of my house. I get talked about every day, Moore said. I know youre not supposed to care what others think about you, but its hard.

I dont want to be known as 'him,' she said.

Jack Grimes, 21, a senior at Washington University who uses they/them pronouns, has identified as transgender since age 9 but was never able to fully be themself while growing up in a small town in North Carolina. Theybegan using testosterone a year ago, a decision necessary for my continued survival, they said.

Grimes said they are a month away from needing his prescription refilled, and with the new rule, their current doctor could not promise the prescription could be refilled and would not refill it early. With so much uncertainty, they said, Grimes sought a new prescription at the walk-in clinic.

As soon as they graduate, Grimes said they plan to move to Minneapolis to live in a state that has moved to protect gender-affirming care.

I wish that people would just stay out of our business, they said.
Text in which the author defends ideas and reaches conclusions based on his / her interpretation of facts and data

In the days leading up to his killing, Rafael Moreno was in contact with Forbidden Stories. The threats the Colombian journalist was receiving were becoming more and more disquieting. This is why Rafael had decided to share the information he was working on with us: so that in case anything happened to him, we could pursue his work.

At 7:10 p.m. on October 16, 2022, Rafael Moreno was shot dead in the city of Montelibano, in the north of Colombia  a dangerous region dominated by the Gulf Clan, a powerful organized crime group.

Immediately after his death, we went to Bogota. We met with dozens of Colombian, Latin American and international journalists. And on October 23, 30 journalists decided to unite forces to pursue Rafaels unfinished work.

Six months later, coordinated by Forbidden Stories, journalists from CLIP, Cuestion Publica, El Espectador, France 24, RFI and other partners are releasing the Rafael Project. Today, this collaborative and international investigation is revealing significant information pertaining to environmental and health damage by mining companies in Cordoba, the region of Colombia Rafael is from, and unmasking, for the first time at-scale, a massive system of cronyism and the probable embezzlement of public funds that Rafael had begun to look into.

Like Rafael, dozens of journalists around the world are currently protecting their sensitive information and investigations through the SafeBox Network. This new network is quickly growing. Some of these journalists  like Alfredo Guachire in Paraguay, Paola Ugaz in Peru and Haruna Mohammed Salisu in Nigeria  have made the choice to make it publicly known that theyve joined this network. They are doing this for their own security, so that people who might wish to silence them know their stories will be revealed, one way or another, on a global scale.

Days before World Press Freedom Day, it is important to remember that journalism, and the right for every citizen to be informed, is critical to global democracy. Pursuing the work of assassinated journalists is not just a fraternal responsibility, but also a democratic one, ensuring that public interest information  whether its about environmental crimes, corruption or human rights violations  is not snuffed out. This is especially true at a time when journalists are under greater and greater threat.

To Rafaels killers: you were wrong. Today, 32 media outlets around the world are publishing Rafaels investigations. Killing the journalist wont kill the story.

Laurent Richard, journalist and director of the Forbidden Stories consortium.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
Mobile phone apps arent the solution to school shootings

Regarding Missouri buying school safety app as mass shootings mount (April 12): As a former special education teacher with over 25 years of experience in the classroom, I strongly believe that Missouri teachers deserve a better safety system than a mobile phone app-based alert system. While silent panic alarms are crucial in todays schools, expecting teachers to rely solely on their personal devices is impractical and unreliable.

As educators, we constantly move around the school building and engage with our students. Carrying personal devices on us is not always possible, especially during classroom activities that require our full attention. Furthermore, many school buildings have areas where it is impossible to get a signal, which leaves teachers vulnerable in an emergency.

To truly support teachers and enhance school safety, we need non-app-based solutions that teachers can carry with them and trigger discreetly. These systems should not be limited to just active shooter situations but should be designed to respond to other emergencies, such as a sick child or a fight among students.

It is encouraging that Missouri is investing funds into school safety, but these funds must be utilized effectively to ensure the safety of our teachers and students. Instead of relying on mobile phone apps, schools should explore other solutions, such as wearable panic buttons or other discreet alert systems. We owe it to our educators to provide them with the tools to keep our schools safe.

Robin Peal  Ballwin

Leak of classified documents shows lax security protocols

The story of the 21-year-old airman accused of unlawful retention of secret materials highlights significant problems in our security protocols. First, the vetting process to determine who is granted a security clearance needs a major review. This young mans web surfing was detectable and should have raised a red flag. Also, far too many people have access to this type classified material.

Those of us who have served in the military and who have gone through the security-clearance process know that the sharing of classified material is restricted to people with both the necessary clearance and the need to know such information. Placing this information on the internet is, in my opinion, an act of treason and may have severely damaged Americas security interests as well as those of our allies.

Deane Looney  St. Louis

More driver education, fewer stop signs would boost safety

I would like to address road safety in the St. Louis area. In my experience, it is not the condition of the roads that is the biggest problem but the drivers. First, we do not require any type of driver education. Its obvious that our drivers dont have the necessary skills to operate vehicles. Driver education should be mandatory.

Second, we have too many stop signs. When drivers have to continuously stop on their routes, it causes frustration. They tend to speed to make up time. I do not encounter constant stops in other communities, where one can drive for some distance on main thoroughfares without stopping. A comprehensive assessment of our roads could eliminate many of the stops, which are often used in an ineffective attempt to deter speeders.

Denise Pott  St. Louis

Sentencing for traffic fatality reflects unfair racial bias

I read with interest the article about the Black man who was sentenced to life plus 17 years for killing one person in a fatal car crash (Man gets life in prison for causing fatal crash on Page in St. Louis, April 10). The only difference I could see between him and two white defendants mentioned in the article who both got lighter sentences was he was driving a stolen car. A man who killed three people in a DWI crash only received eight years. In this case, the criminal justice system does not seem fair.

Dale Scott  Hillsboro

Child Tax Credit expansion would lift families from povertyThe expansion of the federal Child Tax Credit could make a difference in the lives of many low-income American families. Many working-class American families are left to choose between a rock and a hard place in prioritizing scarce resources to support their children.

The current tax credit has been effective in keeping many Americans above the poverty line, but it still leaves millions of families in the cold. In Missouri, 34% of children living in rural areas are in families that are ineligible for the full tax credit, compared to 27% of children statewide.

Members of Congress should work across the aisle to expand the tax credit to support working-class families and reduce child poverty.

Kolawole Arowoogun  Rolla

Free, accessible contraception could help reduce abortion

I am pro-choice but am not happy at all when abortions are performed. Why not just make contraception free and easily available? Let people pick up the pills or other form of contraception at a doctors office or pharmacy. Churches provide the items for underserved neighborhoods. I think this should be a no-questions-asked distribution, available to all who are in need. Age should not come into play.

Phil Kuhlman  House Springs

Read letters online at STLToday.com
You've seen those humorous T-shirts reading: There are 10 types of people in the world  those who understand binary and those who don't." That also applies to travelers: They either love or hate red-eye flights. In case you're from a different planet and don't already know, a red-eye is a long-haul flight that operates overnight on which you're supposed to get your night's sleep. If you love them, you can find at least a few on many long-haul nonstop routes of  say  five or more hours duration. And even if you hate them, you can't avoid them on many busy long hauls.

Why Love? Many travelers prefer red-eye flights to cut travel costs for either or both of 10 reasons:

 Overnight on a plane means you "save" a vacation or trip day and don't have to pay for a hotel that night.

 Red-eye flights are often  but not always  cheaper than daytime flights.

Why Hate? The reasons to hate often mirror the opposites of the "love" reasons:

 Many travelers find it impossible to enjoy a good night's sleep in the tiny, cramped economy class seats most travelers occupy. Even a much more comfortable flat-bed business-class seat isn't an adequate substitute for a good hotel bed.

 Even if you can sleep in an economy seat, you often aren't overnight long enough to meet your sleep needs. And ongoing activities by the plane crews and movement by passengers disturb your attempt to sleep.

On popular routes, you often arrive at your destination early in the morning  zonked and suffering from jet lag  far too early to check into your hotel. I've seen too many groups of bleary-eyed travelers sitting around London hotel lobbies forlornly waiting for their rooms.

Where You Find Them. You can find at least a few red-eyes on almost all long-haul trips and you can't avoid them on many, especially eastbound. The reason is clear: When you cross time zones going east, you set your watch ahead  three hours on a domestic transcon, five to six to Europe from the Eastern zone, eight to nine from the Pacific zone, and eight and more on a transpacific flight. That means only the shortest of those trips can be scheduled for reasonably convenient daytime departure and arrival local times. You encounter them on:

 Domestic long-hauls: Almost all nonstops from Hawaii to mainland points east of the West Coast are red-eyes, as are many nonstops from Alaska to central and eastern cities. And you can catch eastbound red-eyes on most popular transcon routes.

 Intercontinental trips. The highest-traffic popular routes dominated by red-eyes are eastbound nonstops from most U.S. points to Europe, all nonstops eastbound across the north Pacific, and almost all nonstops on both directions to/from the South Pacific and southern South America.

Avoiding red-eyes. If you're as averse to red-eyes as I am, you'll try to find a daytime nonstop from the U.S. or Canada to Europe. And last week the blog Simpleflying.com conveniently published a tabulation of eastbound daytime transatlantic nonstops for this summer. They fly to only three European cities from only six U.S. and Canadian cities:

 Boston to London/Heathrow and Keflavik

 Chicago to London/Heathrow

 Halifax to London/Heathrow

 Newark to London/Heathrow

 New York/JFK to London/Heathrow, Keflavik, and (a surprise) Istanbul

 Washington/Dulles to London/Heathrow

Not all those flights operate daily. Also, you can fly nonstop from several U.S. and Canadian points to the Azores. In years past, you could fly daytime New York to Paris, Toronto and St. John's to London, and New York to Dublin, but apparently not this year.

Another way to avoid red-eyes is to fly westbound only. I did that once in business class on a frequent flyer round-the-world award. But that's too much for most travelers. Clearly, on many long-haul routes, there's a red-eye in your future. Live with it.
Recent North Korean military exercises, monitored by South Korea and the United States, included a new North Korean AUV (Autonomous Underwater Vehicle) that North Korea later revealed could be used with a nuclear or conventional warhead. Called Haeil (tsunami), this was the first open sea test of the system. North Korea described the new AUV as designed to make sneak attacks against enemy ports or ships at sea. Haeil will purportedly be towed by a surface ship to the location it will be launched from or launched from a North Korean port. If a nuclear warhead is used, it is purportedly supposed to produce a radioactive tidal wave in enemy ports or destroy ships at sea with a large radioactive shock wave. There are no pictures of Haeil although one recent photo showed North Korean leader Kim Jong Un standing next to a large torpedo shaped object. Haeil is similar in function to the new Russian Poseidon torpedo, which is armed with a large nuclear weapon and launched from a modified nuclear submarine. This sub can carry four to eight Poseidons, attached to the outside of the sub. Russia claims Poseidon is armed with a new two-megaton nuclear warhead that detonates underwater, creating a tidal wave of radioactive water that hits enemy ports. Poseidon can travel several thousand kilometers underwater, using a nuclear propulsion system. Russia considers Poseidon a terror weapon and it is unclear if any are available with the new nuclear warhead. Poseidon had not been tested with a conventional warhead to see if it works. For the Russians, the possible existence of such a weapon generates a lot terror, even if it has not been tested.

The new North Korean Haeil AUV was tested. During the exercises the new AUV operated for nearly 60 hours at depths of 80 to 150 meters (260-500 feet) before detonating its explosive warhead. North Korea already uses silos, railroad cars, submarines and large truck mounted launchers to deliver its nuclear weapons. Now there is an AUV. It is uncertain how accurate and reliable the AUV is and the North Koreans would not discuss any possible problems. The AUV requires an accurate and reliable INS (Inertial Navigation System) to work effectively. North Korea is not known to have used such technology in ships before and it is unclear if they have an effective INS system. North Korea is probably still working on the INS system, a technology they have little experience with.
April 18, 2023: Somali soldiers and AU peacekeeper operations in 2022 drove al Shabaab out of a third of the territory the terror group occupied. This included 70 towns and villages. Other losses included killing over 3,000 al Shabaab gunmen and wounding nearly 4,000. In response, more al Shabaab forces moved towards the Kenya border or into Kenya itself. The Kenyan security forces responded but there were still 77 al Shabaab attacks in northern Kenya inflicting 116 deaths among Kenyan civilian and security personnel. Thats a 50 percent increase over 2021 and the fifth year in a row that al Shabaab violence has increased in Kenya, most of it un Mandera county and three other counties in northeast Kenya.

Part of this problem is that for years, thousands of visibly starving Somalis have been allowed to enter the country and take shelter (and regular meals) in the massive Dadaab refugee camp. Kenya has long maintained that the camps have become a menace to Kenyans and there is much popular support in Kenya for closure. Dadaab became the largest refugee camp in the world since it was established in 1991. At its peak it contained over 400,000 people but that had declined to about 330,000 in 2016 and 200,000 now. The other camp, Kakuma, holds over 160,000. An additional 24,000 Somalis fled across the border into Kenya during 2022 and this caused two smaller satellite camps to be reopened. In addition, there are as many as 100,000 or more unregistered Somali refugees. The first camp for exiled Somalis was built outside the town of Dadaab. The Kenyans living near the camp are largely ethnic Somali but the camp is unpopular because it disrupts more than benefits the locals, and has become a base for criminal gangs and Islamic terrorists. Kenya is mostly concerned about Dadaab being used as a base for Islamic terrorists who carry out attacks in Kenya and recruit young men from Dadaab for those attacks. Too often, Kenyan police point out Islamic terror attack investigations come back to Dadaab or Kakuma. Many of the Somalis who said they were returning to Somalia quietly stayed in Kenya, finding refuge in ethnic Somali communities on the Kenyan side of the Somalia border.

The Dadaab camp is near Mandera county, which is on the Somali border and long the scene of Somali violence. Counter-terror efforts have largely kept Somali al Shabaab terrorists out of the capital (Nairobi), which is a thousand kilometers from Mandera, and that is what national politicians focus on. There have been two al Shabaab attacks in Nairobi since 2013. The latest one was in 2019. Politicians have priorities and problems get more attention the closer they are.

Al Shabaab has long sought to drive all non-Moslems out of northeastern Kenya because a lot of ethnic Somalis and Moslems live there. Over 80 percent of Kenyans are Christian and only twelve percent Moslem, most of them ethnic Somalis. Despite the Kenyan ban on new arrivals at the UN operated camps, over 80,000 visibly hungry Somalis (most of them women and children) have been accepted in the last few months. Most come from areas in southern Somalia that are under al Shabaab control and not receiving much, if any foreign food aid.

The UN has been unsuccessful in obtaining needed food aid for Somalia. Foreign aid donors have convinced Somalis that the send the aid to where it will do the most good approach was definitely being applied to Somalia. That policy put Somalia at a disadvantage because much, if not most of its aid was stolen and never reached those who needed it. If the new government can demonstrate an ability to change the wicked ways of its predecessors, the aid will resume and increase. In 2022, the drought was blamed for at least 43,000 deaths.

Somalia and other nations in the region need this because the region is suffering from one of its periodic droughts, and a major one at that. In the past these major droughts would cause visible declines in the population. After World War II (1939-45) foreign aid by a growing number of countries and NGOs (Non-government Organizations) made it possible to prevent these starvation deaths, at least in countries that could distribute the aid effectively. Somali was one of the nations that had trouble doing that, mainly because Somalia was still a deeply divided region because of the persistence of many powerful clans that looked after their own even if it meant other Somalis suffered. The clan loyalties are still a problem and a major factor in delaying fair elections of a national parliament.

April 17, 2023: AU (African Union) officials revealed that peacekeeper deaths in Somalia were much higher (3,500) than previously made public and that there has been some problems in getting family benefits ($50,000) to the families of peacekeepers killed in Somalia over the last sixteen years. So far the EU has paid out nearly $200 million in death benefits and disabling injuries.

The peacekeeper force costs about $200 million a year. That is provided by the UN via contributions by the U.S. and EU (European Union). The UN approves the size and duration of the peacekeeper force annually. The peacekeepers have been in Somalia since 2007 at a cost of over three billion dollars. So far about 3,500 peacekeepers have been killed and at least as many permanently disabled from their wounds. The AU pays for medical care, including long term care for some of the wounded. The bodies of peacekeepers killed in Somalia are usually buried there. The AU pays for this and is supposed to send to families of the dead a lump sum in death benefits. The AU pays the death benefits to the country that supplied the peacekeeper, not directly to the family. Some local officials steal, or try to steal the death benefits. There are similar problems with peacekeeper payrolls and disability payments. This sort of corruption is found everywhere but is worst in Africa and Somalia is rated as the most corrupt nation on the planet. For years the AU played down the high casualty rates in Somalia, reporting less then a third of the actual deaths. The growing number of corruption scandals involving missing death benefits and other compensation led to the actual loss statistics being revealed. There are sometimes problems with soldiers not being paid during peacetime in their home countries. Too much of this sometimes sparks a rebellion or insurrection over missing pay and other grievances. Despite this there was never a problem obtaining peacekeepers for duty in Somalia, paid for by the AU (and a long list of African and Western donors).

Somalia is the most dangerous peacekeeping duty in the world. About 300,000 men served as peacekeepers in Somalia, receiving an average annual compensation of $9,100 each. Officers, NCOs and privates all receive different amounts and peacekeeping duty pays better than their regular pay when back home. In most countries, peacekeeping duty is relatively safe. This was not the case in Somalia, where about three percent of peacekeepers were killed or badly (disabled) wounded.

The first AU peacekeepers (from Uganda) arrived in March 2007 and these 8,000 troops were supposed to be gone within six months. That force did not disappear by the end of 2007 but kept growing and quickly reached 22,000, most of them soldiers plus a few thousand police, trainers and administrators. Uganda and Burundi supplied most of them with most of the rest coming from Kenya and Ethiopia. The peacekeeper force made a difference, but in the face of massive corruption in the Somali government and various Somali communities that demanded help, the operation proved far more expensive and time-consuming than expected. Peacekeepers are due to leave because the best they can do is reduce the violence and disunity, while UN donors are not willing to waste money on that when there are other disaster zones that can make better use of the limited foreign aid.

April 3, 2023: In Mogadishu, a peacekeeper armored vehicle on patrol hit a landmine, killing three civilian bystanders and wounding many others. Al Shabaab was believed responsible for this.

March 27, 2023: In the northeast (Somaliland) fighting between rival Islamic terror groups left 43 al Shabaab and ISIL (Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant) members dead.

March 26, 2023: In the south (Middle Shabelle region) al Shabaab attacked an army base but were repulsed with heavy losses. The al Shabaab force retreated, taking their dead and wounded with them.

March 22, 2023: In the north (Somaliland) a long simmering territorial dispute has led to weeks of fighting between Somaliland forces and local militias. Since February this fighting has left nearly a hundred dead and over 400 wounded. This has driven several hundred thousand civilians to cross into Ethiopia to escape the violence. This fighting was a side effect of disputes between Puntland and Somaliland. The Sool area had been quiet since mid-2108, when there was renewed violence lasting about a week that left fifty dead. Since the 1990s these two statelets that comprise northern Somalia; Puntland and Somaliland, have been squabbling, and sometimes shooting, over possession of the Sool region that lies astride their border. Both sides claim it, and both are willing to fight for it. The dispute has been going on since Puntland was formed in 1998. Back then Puntland declared they controlled the Sool because the inhabitants belonged to a Puntland tribe. Somaliland based their claim on borders drawn by the colonial governments of Italy and Britain a century ago. Years of negotiations did not achieve much. Both statelets sent additional troops to the border in anticipation of a fight for Sool. The 2018 Sool violence got started after several months of escalating demonstrations and threats. This has been the case since the last outbreak of violence in mid-2014. Before that there was brief fighting in early 2012. There was some Sool tension in 2009 and fighting in early 2008. This was a continuation of a confrontation that started in late 2007. The first real threats of violence were in 2003 and ever since the best the two statelets could do was keep things quiet. A resolution of the Sool dispute continues to be out of reach.

March 8, 2023: Somalia has massive problems with corruption, which explains why the latest annual Transparency International Corruption Perception Index showed that Somalia is the most corrupt nation in the world. Somalia continued to be as corrupt as it has been during the last decade, with a corruption score of 12, which is why Somalia is stuck at the bottom of the list. Transparency International measures corruption on a 1 (most corrupt) to 100 (not corrupt) scale. The nations with the lowest scores are currently Yemen (score of 17). Syria (13), South Sudan (13) and Somalia (12). The least corrupt nation is currently Denmark, with a CPI of 90, followed by Finland and New Zealand, each with 87.

While the Middle East has a lot of corruption, there are exceptions. In the Persian Gulf the UAE (United Arab Emirates) is the least corrupt nation in the region, followed by Israel. Both Somalia and UAEs corruption score have not changed much since the 2011 Arab Spring revolution when it was 8 for Somalia and 68 for the UAE. The UAE achieved the most favorable corruption score in the region because it has long depended on foreign trade to survive and to make money in that business you must be known as an honest trading partner. The UAE is also different in that it is a federation of formerly independent emirates that realized the wisdom of joining forces. Laws and customs vary somewhat among the emirates and some are more gangster than others. Overall, the UAE is a place where foreigners feel comfortable doing business. The UAE has also partnered with Turkey to provide foreign aid to Somalia. This has proved very difficult to carry out and Somalia is not a place most foreigners want to do business in. Somalia is also a federation of seven (including separatist Somaliland and Puntland in the far north) clan-dominated regions that have never achieved the degree of unity and prosperity of the UAE.
William Tincup brings a broad spectrum of experience as an industry expert in talent acquisition, helping Almas Insight to scale its proprietary platform to organizations so that they can leverage actionable business data on human capabilities and scale and accelerate for the future career marketplace.

SEATTLE, WA / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Almas Insight, a company that provides data-driven solutions for organizations to measure needed human capabilities in workforce management, today announces the addition of William Tincup, the President and Editor-at-Large of RecruitingDaily, as an advisor to its board.

Almas Insight Logo

With this addition, Almas will be able to leverage Tincup's broad spectrum of experience from his more than 20 years as a thought leader and industry expert in HR and TA (recruiting). Tincup is a prolific speaker, keynote, panelist, facilitator, and moderator and has been featured or sourced as an HR, TA, future of work, and career expert across top-tier media from The New York Times and Harvard Business Review to TechCrunch and WIRED.

As the President and Editor-at-Large of RecruitingDaily, Tincup speaks at conferences and webinars, attends analyst meetings, programs training events, and is the host of three different podcasts in the recruiting sphere - podcasting more about HR and TA than anyone in the world. As a venture partner at Evergreen Mountain Equity Partners, he serves on the Board of Advisors for more than 20 HR and TA tech companies, advising and supporting entrepreneurs and investors alike with strategic advice across a myriad of KPIs based on the recruiting business market.

Almas Insight is a company that offers a cutting-edge, immersive, game-based product that combines contextual video, situational simulation, and cognitive tests to measure more than a dozen high-demand human capabilities in real time. After a decade of research through the University of Washington and promptly funded by Learn Capital - the world's largest human development venture fund - the company was formed to bring this human-centric insight to the business world. Almas' proprietary platform provides organizations with a methodology that will help reduce socioeconomic biases inherent in the current employment system while helping to support C-suite and HR leaders to execute more inclusive hiring and improve employee management, workforce production, and employee career path development.

"The workforce is clearly in a period of refinement, whether you call it the great resignation or the great transformation. Almas is extremely fortunate to be working with someone like Williams, and his vast experience in HR, TA, future of work, and career expertise, to help accelerate and scale our solution of actionable business data on human capabilities to global organizations," said Rob Savette, co-founder and CEO of Almas Insight. "With his guidance, Almas will be able to deliver people-driven, actionable business data to organizations that need it to successfully manage workforce transformation."

"I consider myself extremely fortunate to have advised some brilliant entrepreneurs and tech companies both in the past and present. I believe that Almas Insight is one of those 'buckle your seatbelts' startups, and I am proud to be brought on as an advisor," said William Tincup, President and Editor-at-Large of RecruitingDaily. "Almas is seeking one of the holy grails of HR - the DNA of a great employee. They then look to take this DNA further and answer the question of how to use it to the utmost ability in HR and TA, generating true talent intelligence in real time."

About Almas Insight

Almas Insight offers a cutting-edge approach to integrating objective human-driven data into the hiring and workforce management market. Using an immersive, game-based digital work sample to measure more than a dozen high-demand human capabilities, Almas provides a unique analytics platform that can help companies better determine where employees and candidates are a good fit. By identifying high-performance individuals, streamlining reorganization efforts, building more effective professional growth plans, and gaining a greater understanding of workforce attrition, Almas' solution opens a new channel of understanding between employees and employers. Almas is helping to accelerate the business world into a more informed, healthier, equitable, and sustainable future.

Contact Information:

Emily Senkosky

Communications Coordinator

[email protected]

+1(208)-850-1195

SOURCE: Almas Insight

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In recent years, the coal mining industry in New South Wales has experienced a significant boom, with a surge in job opportunities and increased demand for skilled workers.

PERTH, AUSTRALIA / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / As one of Australia's leading recruitment companies in the mining sector with extensive experience supplying qualified employees for a range of positions, including rigger jobs and FIFO chef jobs Perth- and Australia-wide, Techforce has been closely monitoring the developments in NSW. Here the company offers insights into the current state of the industry.

Techforce

Techforce

According to Techforce, the increase in demand for coal mining workers is driven by several factors including an uptick in global demand for coal and a growing number of new mining projects in the state. This has resulted in a shortage of skilled workers in certain areas, particularly those with expertise in areas such as heavy equipment operation and underground mining.

To meet this demand, Techforce has been working with mining companies across the state to recruit and train new workers. The company offers a range of services including skills assessments, training programs and job placement services to help ensure mining companies can find the skilled workers they need to meet their production goals.

One of the key challenges facing the industry, according to Techforce, is the need to attract and retain a diverse workforce. This includes workers from different backgrounds, genders and ages as well as workers with a range of skills and experience levels for all types of roles, including mining chef jobs.

Techforce says the coal mining job boom in NSW is a positive development for the industry and the state as a whole. The increased demand for workers is helping to drive economic growth and create job opportunities, particularly in regional areas where mining is a major employer.

With increasing importance placed on ensuring the industry remains sustainable and responsible, Techforce says worker safety and well-being is being prioritised along with investing in new technologies to reduce environmental impacts and working with communities to build strong, long-lasting partnerships.

As the coal mining industry in NSW continues to grow and evolve, Techforce is committed to helping mining companies find the skilled workers they need to succeed while promoting a sustainable and inclusive industry for all. To discover the latest opportunities including chef jobs, visit Techforce online.

About Techforce

Techforce Personnel is a national privately owned recruitment and workforce management company experienced in supplying qualified employees to a range of industries across Australia and New Zealand.

Contact Information:

Techforce Personnel

Marketing Manager

[email protected]

(08) 6363 7040

SOURCE: Techforce

View source version on accesswire.com:
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / The Power Play by The Market Herald has announced the release of new interviews with Reunion Gold Corp, Numinus Wellness, Core Assets, Blockmate Ventures, BioVaxys Tech, Carlyle Commodities and Belmont Resources 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.

Reunion Gold Releases Additional Drill Results From Its Oko West Project in Guyana Including Hole D-243 Which Intersected 109.7 Metres of 5.59 g/t Au and Works Toward a Mid Year Maiden Resource Estimate

These results continue to confirm the grade and continuity of the Kairuni zone and expand the mineralized envelope, which remains open at depth below blocks 1, 4, 5, 6 and 7 - the Company continues to explore further zones along strike. Holes D-213, D-234, and D-243 continue to confirm the presence of higher-grade mineralized "shoots" within Block 4, which have been identified from previous drill results. These higher-grade shoots remain open at depth, below the extent of drilling completed to date.

For the full interview with Rick Howes and to learn about Reunion Gold Corp, click here.

Numinus Launches new Clinic Licensing Platform, the Numinus Network, to Accelerate Expansion

Licensing model enables Numinus to scale with limited capital investment and overhead. Provides practitioners with an alternate model, allowing them to retain ownership of their practice and performance while leveraging Numinus patient protocols. New partnership with Healing Commercial Real Estate Inc. provides Numinus Network licensees with turn-key locations.

For the full interview with Payton Nyquvest and to learn about Numinus, click here.

Core Assets Samples 19.5g/t Au at the Falcon Target

Core Assets Corp., is pleased to announce surficial assay results from the Falcon Target - a historic vein-hosted gold-silver occurrence located 950m north-northeast of the Jackie CRD Target at the Silver Lime CRD-Porphyry Project, north-central Blue Property; Atlin Mining District of NW British Columbia.

For the full interview with Nicholas Rodway and to learn about Core Assets, click here.

Blockmate Launches Web3 Passive Income Generator App for Global Audience

Blockmate Ventures Inc, is pleased to announce that its 100% owned subsidiary Hivello has beta launched an innovative application that enables an addressable market of more than 100 million internet users to earn up to US$20 per month in passive income, simply by contributing their idle computing resources.

For the full interview with Justin Rosenberg and to learn about Blockmate Venutes, click here.

Biovaxys Retains Maxim Group as Financial Advisor and Investment Banker

BioVaxys Technology Corp. is pleased to announce that it has retained New York City-based Maxim Group LLC as its financial advisor and investment banker to provide general financial advisory and investment banking services, including strategic planning, assessment of potential strategic alliances and capital requirements, and advising the Company with respect to the process of obtaining a listing on a US national stock exchange.

For the full interview with James Passin and to learn about BioVaxys Technology Corp, click here.

Carlyle Intercepts 613.9 Meters of 0.55 g/t AuEq at Newton Project, BC, Including 18 Meters of 1.67 g/t AuEq and 33 Meters of 1.45 g/t AuEq

Carlyle Commodities Corp. is pleased to announce that is has received assays from its third and final drill hole from its Phase 1 drill program at its 100% owned Newton Gold-Silver Project near Williams Lake, British Columbia. The Newton Project is a low sulphide epithermal system. The system remains open in multiple directions, particularly to the west, northwest, north and at depth, within a highly prospective (24,000 hectare) land package that is workable all year-round.

For the full interview with Morgan Good and to learn about Carlyle Commodities Corp., 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

[email protected]

themarketherald.ca

SOURCE: The Market Herald

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NORTHBROOK, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Banyan Acquisition Corporation (NYSE: BYN.U, BYN, BYN.WS) (the Company), a special purpose acquisition company, announced today that it intends to adjourn, without conducting any business, the Companys special meeting of stockholders scheduled to be held on April 18, 2023 (or any adjournment thereof) (the Extension Meeting), at which the Companys stockholders will vote on, among other things, proposals to amend the Companys amended and restated certificate of incorporation and trust agreement to extend the date by which the Company has to consummate a business combination (the Extension Proposals) from April 24, 2023 to December 24, 2023, as further described in the Companys definitive proxy statement in connection with such special meeting (the Extension Proxy Statement), and to reconvene the Extension Meeting at 10:00 a.m., Eastern time, on April 21, 2023. The Extension Proxy Statement was mailed on or about March 31, 2023 to the Companys stockholders of record as of March 24, 2023. In connection with the intended adjournment of the Extension Meeting, the Company is extending the deadline for holders of its shares of Class A common stock to exercise their right to redeem their shares of Class A common stock for their pro rata portions of the funds available in the Companys trust account (the Trust Account) to 5:00 p.m., Eastern time, on April 19, 2023 (two business days before the adjourned Extension Meeting is to be reconvened). Any request for redemption, once made by a public stockholder, may not be withdrawn once submitted to the Company unless the Companys board of directors determines (in its sole discretion) to permit the withdrawal of such redemption request (which they may do in whole or in part). The Extension Meeting will still be held virtually at https://www.cstproxy.com/banyanacquisition/2023.

Stockholders of record as of March 24, 2023 are entitled to vote at the Extension Meeting. Stockholders who have not yet done so are encouraged to vote as soon as possible. If any such stockholders have questions or need assistance in connection with the Extension Meeting, please contact the Companys proxy solicitor, Morrow Sodali LLC by telephone by dialing (800) 662-5200 or (203) 658-9400 or by sending an email to [email protected].

About Banyan Acquisition Corporation

Banyan Acquisition Corporation, led by CEO, Keith Jaffee, and Chairman, Jerry Hyman, is a special purpose acquisition company formed with the purpose of entering into a business combination with one or more businesses. While the Company may pursue an initial business combination with a company in any sector or geography, it intends to focus its search on businesses within the foodservice industry.

Participants in the Solicitation

The Company, Banyan Acquisition Sponsor LLC and the Companys directors and executive officers and other persons may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the Companys stockholders in respect of the Extension Meeting. Important information regarding the Companys directors and executive officers is available in its Extension Proxy Statement filed with the SEC on March 30, 2023. Additional information regarding the participants in the proxy solicitation and a description of their direct and indirect interests are contained in the Extension Proxy Statement.

No Offer or Solicitation

This communication shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which the offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.

Additional Information

The Company has filed the Extension Proxy Statement with the SEC for the Extension Meeting to consider and vote upon the Extension Proposals and other matters and, beginning on or about March 31, 2023, mailed the Extension Proxy Statement and other relevant documents to its stockholders as of the March 24, 2023 record date for the Extension Meeting. The Companys stockholders and other interested persons are advised to read the Extension Proxy Statement and any other relevant documents that have been or will be filed with the SEC in connection with the Companys solicitation of proxies for the Extension Meeting because these documents will contain important information about the Company, the Extension Proposals and related matters. Stockholders may also obtain a free copy of the Extension Proxy Statement, as well as other relevant documents that have been or will be filed with the SEC, without charge, at the SECs website located at www.sec.gov or by directing your request to Morrow Sodali LLC by telephone by dialing (800) 662-5200 or (203) 658-9400 or by sending an email to [email protected].

Forward -Looking Statements

Certain statements made in this release with respect to the Company and the Extension Meeting are forward looking statements within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. When used in this release, the words estimates, projected, expects, anticipates, forecasts, plans, intends, believes, seeks, may, will, should, future, propose and variations of these words or similar expressions (or the negative versions of such words or expressions) are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, conditions or results, and involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors, many of which are outside the Companys control, that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, the forward-looking statements. Important factors, among others, that may affect actual results or outcomes include: the risk that approval of the Extension Proposals by the Companys stockholders is not obtained; the inability of the Company to enter into a definitive agreement with respect to an initial business combination within the time provided in the Companys amended and restated certificate of incorporation; the level of redemptions made by the Companys stockholders in connection with the Extension Proposals and its impact on the amount of funds available in the Companys Trust Account to complete an initial business combination; and those factors discussed in the Annual Report under the heading Risk Factors, and other documents the Company filed, or will file, with the SEC. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230417005783/en/

Banyan Acquisition Corporation

Keith Jaffee

[email protected]

Source: Banyan Acquisition Corporation
HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Coterra Energy Inc. (Coterra or the Company) (NYSE: CTRA) today announced it will host a conference call on Friday, May 5, 2023, at 9:00 AM CT (10:00 AM ET) to discuss first-quarter 2023 financial and operating results. The Company plans to announce first-quarter 2023 results after the market closes on Thursday, May 4, 2023.

Conference Call Information

Date: Friday, May 5, 2023

Time: 10:00 AM ET / 9:00 AM CT

Dial-in (for callers in the U.S. and Canada): (888) 550-5424

Intl dial-in: (646) 960-0819

Conference ID: 3813676

To access the live webcast, visit the Events & Presentations page under the Investors section of the Companys website at www.coterra.com. The replay will be archived and available at the same location after the conclusion of the live event.

About Coterra Energy

Coterra is a premier exploration and production company based in Houston, Texas with focused operations in the Permian Basin, Marcellus Shale and Anadarko Basin. We strive to be a leading energy producer, delivering sustainable returns through the efficient and responsible development of our diversified asset base. Learn more about us at www.coterra.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230505005001/en/

Investor Contact

Daniel Guffey  Vice President of Finance, Planning & Analysis and Investor Relations

281.589.4875

Hannah Stuckey  Investor Relations Manager

281.589.4983

Source: Coterra Energy Inc.
CHARLOTTE, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- EnPro Industries, Inc. (NYSE: NPO) intends to release financial results for the first quarter of 2023, on Tuesday, May 2, at 6:30 a.m. Eastern Time. Eric Vaillancourt, President and Chief Executive Officer, and Milt Childress, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, will host a conference call to review the companys performance at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time.

The conference call will be webcast live and can also be accessed via phone at 1-877-407-0832, using the access code 13725737, approximately 10 minutes before the call is scheduled to begin. Our first quarter 2023 financial results, a webcast of the conference call, and the accompanying slide presentation will be available on the companys website, http://www.enproindustries.com.

About Enpro

Enpro is a leading industrial technology company focused on critical applications across many end-markets, including semiconductor, photonics, industrial process, aerospace, food and pharma and life sciences. Enpro is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol NPO. For more information about Enpro, visit the companys website at http://www.enproindustries.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005281/en/

Investor Contacts:

James Gentile  Vice President, Investor Relations

Jenny Yee  Corporate Access Specialist

Phone: 704-731-1527

Email: [email protected]

Source: EnPro Industries, Inc.
Dr. Jonathan Osborne, Professor Emeritus in Science Education at Stanford University, defends the professionalism and specialization of experts in the post-truth era. In the face of individualistic discourses, where access to knowledge has led some people to believe that they are alien to others, the professor warns that we still need an infinite number of professionals versed in their subjects. Osborne, who was the chairman of the think tank responsible for developing the OECDs framework for assessing the scientific knowledge of students in over 100 countries, has been a teacher for decades.

After graduating in physics, he went into teaching, both at secondary and university level, at Kings College London in the U.K. His research focuses on finding the best methodology to teach science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). The professor sat down with EL PAIS at the National Museum of Science and Technology in Madrid to share his thoughts on science education in todays environment

Question. What role does science play in todays society?

Answer. We depend epistemically on the skills of scientists, just as we do on plumbers and doctors. Our scientific understanding of the world is one of humanitys greatest intellectual achievements. I wish that more people would be able to explain why this is the case. For example, anyone would be able to briefly explain why Shakespeare or Cervantes are great writers but is it so easy to do this when talking about scientists? This is a problem, because it means that we have failed to communicate the achievements of leaders in the field.

Q. What is lacking in science education in schools?

A. I think there is a big problem with teaching science. I wrote a report on it a long time ago: the average student goes to a 50-minute class, learns one scientific fact, comes back a week later and is taught another. What young people learn are the building blocks of scientific knowledge but they arent able to see the big picture at all. The only people who really get to see inside the building are those who continue to study and become scientists.

Science education starts from the wrong place. Education must start from the point of view of questions about the world However, most textbooks tell you the facts, but not what they are answering.

Q. Do you think that the popularization of scientific knowledge  say, via individuals putting out content on social media  has been positive?

A. Yes! Science teaching in schools should take more into account the wow factor. Think of the idea that your life exists for 70 to 90 years and that you are one of billions of people on Earth, on this little planet that is orbiting the Sun Thats amazing. Traditional education often fails when it comes to transmitting the sense of wonder in science.

Osborne during his conference on disinformation at the FECYT-INTEF Scientix event, last October. FECYT

Q. What can we do to combat false beliefs that contradict science? Such as, for example, the notion that climate change isnt real, the belief that the Earth is flat, or the perception that all vaccines are harmful?

A. You shouldnt tell someone that theyre incorrect. No one likes to hear the phrase youre wrong. You must interact, listen to their reasoning and then present them with information that contradicts them, because theyre being selective with their data. It requires a lot of patience. The first thing you have to do  something that is very key in education  is demonstrate intellectual humility. This is a much stronger position from which to approach breaking down false beliefs. Knowing the correct answer isnt enough: you need to be able to explain why the incorrect answer is wrong. Also, from a political standpoint  even if you find it offensive  you have to know the arguments of the other side. There must be dialogue; this is a long-term project.

Q. In science, by definition, there is always the chance that fellow scientists will prove you wrong. Does that make you humble?

A. Sure, but science is also very competitive. Theres pressure to grow in your career, publish, win grants. As a scientist, you want to be proven right and you want your discoveries to be significant. Thats just human nature.

Thankfully, the scientific community invented the peer review model, which, while not perfect, helps ensure that whatever is published has some relevance. Community and consensus are part of the process.

Q. How do you communicate uncertainty, when a truth is partial or probabilistic?

A. We give students complex information  messy data  so they can understand how convulsive reality is. We explain the methodology on how to reach agreements, discover trends, isolate outliers and eliminate noise when building a data set. Thus, we explain that it is necessary to explore the nature of uncertainty, rather than simply providing an answer. We must invite students to theorize: why should we trust science? Should we believe the data we have access to? This serves to teach them that they should always check their sources.

Q. How can we get more people to have trust in scientists?

A. First of all, you have to assess the expertise of the scientist. Who claims this is a recognized professional? You have to check that they are active and working in a recognizable place, such as a university or a research center. We must also know if the scientist who is speaking is actually knowledgeable in their particular field  an immunologist is not an expert in agriculture. Thats why the term scientist as a general label creates problems: its a very specialized profession.

Q. Surveys show a pronounced decline in the interest that people display in the sciences as they grow older.

A. Its a pretty universal reality. People think we live in a scientific and technological society, but thats not true: we live in a humanistic society. People like to interact with other people, to hear what they do and see how they act. The sciences often dont offer this.

Another reason for the decline in interest over time is that, if you present science as a bunch of fixed, established facts on which one can have no influence or opinion, a person will quickly lose interest. The French physiologist Claude Bernard, who lived in the 19th century, said that science is a superb and dazzling hall, which may be reached only by passing through a long and ghastly kitchen. If you dont offer students something impressive  if you dont offer them wonder and connections  why should they care?

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Eighteen Three-Year Grants of $375,000 Each Awarded, for a Total of $6.75 Million

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia & NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Hevolution Foundation and the American Federation for Aging Research (AFAR) are pleased to announce the inaugural Hevolution/AFAR New Investigator Awards in Aging Biology and Geroscience Research recipients. Eighteen three-year awards of $375,000 each, for a total of $6.75 Million, have been granted to support research projects in the basic biology of aging or geroscience, a research paradigm based on addressing the biology of aging and age-related disease to promote healthy aging.

The awards support talented early career investigators. The recipients:

In partnership with AFAR, Hevolution Foundation is excited to strengthen the international pipeline of aging researchers through the New Investigator Awards, shared Felipe Sierra, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer, Hevolution Foundation. "We want to help fill the void and speed the pace of scientific discovery on the processes of aging by dramatically increasing the research workforce. This initial round of grants is a significant step toward that goal.

Recipients of the New Investigator Awards were selected through a rigorous, peer-review process. Applications were reviewed by established aging researchers who volunteer their time and expertise to select scientists and research projects that have the greatest likelihood of making significant contributions to help us stay healthier longer as we grow older.

Some of the biggest breakthroughs in aging research today were funded first through AFARs grants for promising early career researchers. The Hevolution/AFAR New Investigator Awards in Aging Biology and Geroscience Research will significantly boost support for junior faculty worldwide, noted Stephanie Lederman, EdM, Executive Director, AFAR. The promising therapeutics on the horizon that will extend health and vitality as we grow older are rooted in the research into the basic biology of aging and age-related disease supported by this grant.

For more information on the Hevolution/AFAR New Investigator Awards in Aging Biology and Geroscience visit https://hevolution.com/en/funding-opportunities or https://www.afar.org/funding-opportunities.

About Hevolution Foundation

Founded in the belief that every person has the right to live a longer, healthier life, Hevolution Foundation is a global catalyst, partner, and convener, on a mission to drive efforts to extend healthy human lifespan and understand the processes of aging. Hevolution Foundation aims to increase the number of aging-related treatments on the market, compress the timeline of drug development, and increase accessibility to therapeutics that extend healthy lifespan, also known as healthspan. A non-profit organization headquartered in Riyadh, with an annual budget of up to $1 Billion, Hevolution Foundation plans to open hubs in North America and other global locations to support a cutting-edge, global ecosystem of talent to propel aging and geroscience research forward and achieve medical breakthroughs to help humanity live healthier, longer.

Connect with Hevolution Foundation on LinkedIn, Twitter and at Hevolution.com.

About AFAR

The American Federation for Aging Research (AFAR) is a national non-profit organization that supports and advances pioneering biomedical research that is revolutionizing how we live healthier and longer. For more than four decades, AFAR has served as the fields talent incubator, providing more than $193 million to nearly 4350 investigators at premier research institutions to dateand growing. Through its 2022 grant programs, AFAR awarded over $11,000,000 to more than 60 investigators. A trusted leader and strategist, AFAR also works with public and private funders to steer high quality grant programs and interdisciplinary research networks. AFAR-funded researchers are finding that modifying basic cellular processes can delayor even preventmany chronic diseases, often at the same time. They are discovering that it is never too lateor too earlyto improve health. This groundbreaking science is paving the way for innovative new therapies that promise to improve and extend our quality of lifeat any age. Learn more at www.afar.org or follow AFARorg on Facebook and American Federation for Aging Research on LinkedIn.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005900/en/

Media

For Hevolution Foundation:

[email protected]

Source: Hevolution Foundation
Washington Capital Region Chapter Executive Board Is Growing And Working To Transform The Way The World Sees Women Leaders

WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- How Women Lead, a powerful community of more than 15,000 accomplished women executives, has expanded its Washington Capital Region Executive Board of Advisors. The newest board members will join with existing members to help women in the region influence change in the workplace through personal leadership, investment, and philanthropy.

The Women of the Washington Capital Region Chapter Executive Board hold leadership positions across government, business, and non-profit organizations, and bring invaluable experience and perspective to How Women Leads leadership. This Board of Advisors is an impressive group of local senior executive women including:

New Board Members

Debjani Sarkar, Director of Engineering, Nuance Communications

Janice C. Haith, Strategic Industry Executive, Public Sector, Oracle

Lesley-Jane Dixon, Senior Vice President, Clark Enterprises, Inc.

Nicole O'Neill Ash, Retired Senior National Security Executive

Renee Wynn, CEO, RP Wynn Consulting LLC (former NASA CIO)

Stephanie Tsacoumis, Chief Operating Officer, King Street Wireless

Returning Board Members:

Amy Coughenour-Betancourt, President and CEO, Cadasta Foundation

Essye Miller, President, Executive Business Management

Kaprece James, President and CEO, Stellas Girls, Inc.

Karen Henneberger, Senior Executive, New Ship Design in the Department of Energy

Lakisha Hall, Chief Strategy Transformation Officer, Nielsen

Linda Canada, president of CanDen Retail Associates

Nicole Streeter, General Counsel, Council of the District of Columbia

Shar Caesar Douglas, Global Artist Marketing Lead, TIDAL

How Women Lead is continuing to elevate women and women of color in the workplace and the work of our Washington D.C. chapter is crucial to our collective success, said Julie Castro Abrams, Founder and CEO of How Women Lead. I am so inspired by the women of our Washington Capital Region Executive Board of Advisors, who are dedicated to our mission. As our chapters expand and new chapters emerge, How Women Lead will become a powerhouse organization and transform the way the world sees women leaders.

The Washington Capital Region Chapter was launched in April 2022, serving as the first East Coast chapter for How Women Lead and the second regional chapter nationwide. Others include the Silicon Valley Chapter, and most recently, the new Chicago Region Chapter.

Since its inception in 2022, the Washington D.C. Chapter has made headway in the region, including contributing to the National Womens Business Councils (NWBC) 2022 Annual Report, which included data from the How Women (and Men) Invest In Startups, report, commissioned by How Women Invest last year and highlights the need to shift the Venture Capital landscape to encouraging more female accredited investors to invest in startups and increase capital to female founders.

In the last year, How Women Lead has really been able to make headway in the Washington D.C. region, explained Castro Abrams. Bringing on Debjani Sarkar, Lesley-Jane Dixon, Nicole O'Neill Ash, and Stephanie Tsacoumis will grow the power of our network and our ability to make an impact on women in this region.

How Women Lead is changing the definition of womens leadership by helping experienced, talented women leaders - particularly women of color - claim their seats in the C-suites and corporate boardrooms, and as limited partners in venture capital firms. To join the Washington Capital Region Chapter of How Women Lead, please visit https://www.howwomenlead.com/join-us.

About How Women Lead

How Women Lead is a national organization of top executive women focused on activating their individual and collective power to achieve equity for women by driving representation and opportunities across all aspects of life and career. Founded in 2011, the organization fights for change at all levels by affecting systems reform, mobilizing a movement, offering training, and providing access to opportunities. Now more than 15,000 strong, the organization has expanded the breadth and depth of its impact nationally. How Women Leads philanthropic arm, How Women Give, provides grants and invaluable connections to womens and girls organizations on the frontlines of todays most critical issues. And its sister organization, How Women Invest, invites women to play big and powerfully in venture, making meaningful investments and propelling high-potential, women-led companies forward at scale. For more, visit https://howwomenlead.com/.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005555/en/

How Women Lead

Alexis Karis or Julia Nunes

[email protected]

Source: How Women Lead
VANCOUVER, British Columbia--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Lucidea, developer of the Argus Web CMS and leader in innovative museum collections management software, will participate in the Texas Association of Museums conference on April 23-26, 2023 in San Antonio. Their powerful software is a perfect fit for attendees focused on building a solid foundation for the future with a sustainable collections management system.

Visit Lucidea at their exhibitor table during the conference. When you do, they will demonstrate why they are a trusted technology partner in the museum community. Learn about capabilities that enable expanded curation to educate your visitors, as well as innovative options that go beyond traditional collections management as you share your collections online and build a cultural community.

Lucideas Argus CMS offers comprehensive collections management capabilities, and takes museum professionals furtheroffering community curation/co-curation, a dynamic online presence and full multimedia support for an engaging and immersive digital visitor experience. Argus is flexible, extensible, and always up-to-datesolving todays collections management challenges, and supporting museums of all sizes and budgets.

For further information about Argus, visit https://lucidea.com/argus, phone 604 278 6717, or email [email protected].

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418006122/en/

Bradley Luedke

Business Development Coordinator

604-278-6717

[email protected]

Source: Lucidea
TORONTO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Today, NEO welcomes Mackenzie Investments (Mackenzie) back to the NEO Exchange, with the launch of the Mackenzie Corporate Knights Global 100 Index ETF. The fund begins trading today under the symbol MCKG.

The ETF seeks to replicate the performance of the Corporate Knights Global 100 Index (the Index). The securities contained within include equity securities of issuers from anywhere in the world, selected based on an evaluation of sustainability characteristics using criteria developed and maintained by the Index Provider.

The launch of Mackenzie Corporate Knights Global 100 Index ETF on the NEO Exchange is a proud occasion for Mackenzie, said Luke Gould, President and CEO, Mackenzie Investments. NEO is not only a champion of the Canadian ETF industry, it also shares our values of actively working toward a better tomorrow. Were particularly excited to launch this new offering during Earth Week. This years theme is Invest in our Planet and this ETF enhances the ability of Canadians to invest in global companies that are leading the way in sustainable business practices.

MCKG joins 8 other Mackenzie ETFs, listed on the NEO Exchange, all of which can be traded through the usual investment channels, including discount brokerage platforms and full-service dealers.

We are thrilled about Mackenzies return to the NEO Exchange, particularly through the launch of a sustainable investment ETF which aligns so well with our focus on the purpose-driven Innovation Economy, said Jos Schmitt, President and CEO of the NEO Exchange, and SVP of Global Listings for Cboe Global Markets. Its an honour to serve as the listing exchange of choice for an organization that shares our commitment to shaping a better future, and we will continue to support Mackenzie as an advocate and innovator within the Canadian ETF industry.

The NEO Exchange is home to over 260 unique listings, including ETFs from Canadas largest ETF issuers, Canadian Depositary Receipts (CDRs), and some of the most innovative Canadian and international growth companies. NEO consistently facilitates close to 20% of all volume traded in Canadian ETFs and between 10% and 15% of all volume traded in Canadian-listed companies.

About the NEO Exchange

The NEO Exchange is Canadas Tier 1 stock exchange for the innovation economy, bringing together investors and capital raisers within a fair, liquid, efficient, and service-oriented environment. Fully operational since 2015 and acquired by Cboe Global Markets in 2022, NEO provides access to trading across all Canadian-listed securities on a level playing field. NEO lists companies and investment products seeking an internationally recognized stock exchange that enables investor trust, quality liquidity, and broad awareness including unfettered access to market data.

NEO also powers the Canadian ETF Market, a user-friendly platform providing investors and advisors with one-stop access to ETF research and analysis. Real-time, institutional-grade data allows users to compare, contrast, and explore the entire universe of 1,200+ Canadian ETFs, free of charge.

Connect with NEO: Website | LinkedIn | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

About Mackenzie Investments

Mackenzie Investments is a leading investment management firm with $194 billion in assets under management as of March 31, 2023. Mackenzie provides investment solutions and related services to more than one million retail and institutional clients through multiple distribution channels. Founded in 1967, Mackenzie is a global asset manager with offices across Canada as well as in Boston, Dublin, London, Hong Kong and Beijing. Mackenzie is a member of IGM Financial Inc. (TSX: IGM), one of Canada's premier financial services companies with approximately $260 billion in total assets under management and advisement as of March 31, 2023.

Connect with Mackenzie: Website | LinkedIn | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005638/en/

NEO Media Contact:

[email protected]

Source: NEO Exchange
HAMILTON, Bermuda--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The keynote address at the second annual Bermuda Climate Summit, presented by the Bermuda Business Development Agency (BDA), in partnership with KBRA, will be given by Joshua Rosenberg, Chief Risk Officer, Federal Reserve Bank of New York on June 27.

The theme of this years event is Bermuda - Climate Central and some of the sessions confirmed to date include: The Power of Partnerships, which will be moderated by Jeff Manson, SVP Underwriting and Head of Global Public Sector Partnership, Renaissance Re Ltd, and will include panellists Ekhosuehi Iyahen, Secretary General, Insurance Development Forum, Sid Miller, Director, Climate Wise, Rebekah Clement, Head of Sustainability, Lloyds, and Chair of SMI Climate Action Committee, and Tim Nielander, Founder and President, GP3 Institute.

David Hart, BDA, CEO said, We are so excited to have such leading climate experts speak to our second annual Bermuda Climate Summit. They will share why climate is such an important topic and how Bermuda is the perfect place to develop climate risk solutions. We also look forward to showcasing Bermuda to potential investors from overseas who may be looking for climate-friendly domiciles in which to invest.

Impact of a Changing Climate on Atlantic Hurricane Frequency and Severity will be moderated by Marla Pourrabbani, Data Scientist, Senior Manager, ESG and Sustainability, Deloitte, and features panellists, Dr. Pete Dailey, Head of Research, Aeolus, Liz Henderson, Co-Head Catastrophe Analytics, Executive Managing Director, Reinsurance Solutions, Aon, Dr. Peter Sousounis, Vice President/Director Climate Change Research, Verisk, Craig Tillman, President, RenaissanceRe Risk Sciences.

Net Zero? will be moderated by Miqdaad Versi, Head of ESG, Oxbow Partners, UK, and feature panelists Rachael Dalheise. Head of Sustainability, Convex, Andrew MacFarlane, Head of Climate, AXA XL, a Division of AXA, and Andrew Smith, Chief Risk and Sustainability Officer at Conduit Re.

Global Climate Risk will include Dr. Mark Guishard, Director, Bermuda Weather Service, Dr. Raveem Ismail, Head of Parametric Underwriting, Africa Specialty Risks (ASR Re) and Dr. Simon Young, Senior Director, Willis Towers Watson.

Delegates are encouraged to register soon as the early bird rate of $395 will expire after this Monday, April 24. Overseas guests are also reminded to book their hotel rooms online before May 25, to enjoy special rates at the Hamilton Princess & Beach Club, where the Bermuda Climate Summit will be held from June 26-27, 2023.

The BDA is grateful for the continued support of our headline sponsor KBRA, as well as: diamond sponsor Conduit Re; gold sponsors Deloitte and Hub Culture; and silver sponsors KPMG, Aspen, Belco and Aeolus. Our supporting sponsor is Butterfield. Our media partners are The Insurer, and Bermuda:Re+ILS. Other sponsorship opportunities are still available; please e-mail [email protected] if you wish to participate.

CONNECTING BUSINESS

The BDA encourages direct investment and helps companies start up, re-locate, or expand their operations in our premier jurisdiction. An independent, public-private partnership, we connect you to industry professionals, regulatory officials, and key contacts in the Bermuda government to assist domicile decisions. Our goal? To make doing business in Bermuda smooth and beneficial.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418006172/en/

Stuart Roberts, Director of Marketing & Communications

[email protected] | +1 441 707 0038

Source: BDA
OTTAWA, Ontario--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Every year, dozens of Canadians are killed or seriously injured in preventable train-vehicle and train-pedestrian collisions at railway crossings. These tragic incidents are devastating for the individuals involved, their friends and family, railway employees, first responders, and communities.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005305/en/

Operation Lifesaver Canada collaborates with Google Maps on new rail crossing alert feature for Canadian drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. (Photo: Business Wire)

Today, Operation Lifesaver (OL) Canada announced its collaboration with Google Maps on a new safety feature to alert Canadian drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists to rail crossings. Canadians using Google Maps app (version 5.57 or higher for iOS and 10.68 or higher for Android) will now see a rail crossing icon alerting them to upcoming crossings and encouraging them to approach with caution. The feature was developed using rail crossing location data from the Canadian Rail Atlas, the Railway Association of Canadas interactive map of Canadas nearly 43,000-kilometre railway network.

Many Canadians rely on Google Maps to navigate their communities, and so were delighted to have collaborated with Google on this important project to help save lives, said Sarah Mayes, National Director of OL Canada. Were hopeful that when Canadians see a Google Maps rail crossing alert theyll prepare to stop, obey all railway warning signs and signals, and remember to Look. Listen. Live. before proceeding through any crossing.

OL Canada has been advocating for technology companies to incorporate rail crossing alerts into their navigation applications since 2017. Earlier this year, OL worked with the Railway Association of Canada to validate the locations of more than 21,500 public grade crossings with RACs railway members. Those data points provide the basis for the Google Maps rail crossing alerts in Canada. Development of the Google Maps feature follows the launch of a similar feature developed in collaboration with the popular navigation app Waze in 2020.

Safety is a shared responsibility, and Operation Lifesaver Canada hopes that other technology companies will follow Googles lead and partner with OL to #STOPTrackTragedies.

About Operation Lifesaver Canada

Operation Lifesaver Canada is a national public rail-safety program sponsored by Transport Canada, the Railway Association of Canada and its members, including CN, CPKC, VIA Rail, Metrolinx, exo, West Coast Express and Genesee & Wyoming, among others. Through its national network of Rail Safety Ambassadors, partnerships with safety councils, police, the trucking industry and community groups, and innovative tools such as its virtual-reality Look. Listen. Live. campaign, Operation Lifesaver Canada works to save lives by educating Canadians about the hazards of trespassing on railway property and failing to exercise caution at rail crossings. Canadians can keep up-to-date on the latest rail safety news by visiting operationlifesaver.ca.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005305/en/

For more information:

Catherine Henry

[email protected]

(613) 564-8100

Source: Operation Lifesaver Canada
Its Time to Support KIDS When It Comes to School Accountability

AUSTIN, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Raise Your Hand Texas is urging lawmakers to put KIDS first in the states assessment and accountability system during Measure What Matters Day at the State Capitol. Its time to pass legislation to bring changes to how the states assessment and accountability system measures academic success.

Leaders from Raise Your Hand Texas, alongside Measure What Matters Council members and local community leaders, are calling for reforms to the states STAAR test and the expansion of indicators to the public school accountability system.

Today marks the start of the STAAR testing season in Texas public schools, said Dr. Libby Cohen, senior director of advocacy for Raise Your Hand Texas. A single test should not be the sole indicator of school and student performance, but thats todays system in a nutshell.

Texas lawmakers have the opportunity to craft a world-class accountability system, one that supports our kids and provides a more complete picture of our students, our teachers, and our schools, added Cohen.

Raise Your Hand Texas recommendations for a new accountability plan are reflected in a number of bills moving in the House and Senate during the closing weeks of the Legislative Session. The recommended reforms are KIDS-focused:

Knowledge for parents and community members

Indicators beyond the test

De-emphasize STAAR

Seek feedback

Legislation that reflects many of these reform priorities are found in House Bill 4402 (Rep. Keith Bell), HB 4514 (Rep. Steve Allison), HB 4691 (Rep. Jon Rosenthal), HB 4967 (Rep. Erin Gamez), and Senate Bill 2303 (Sen. Morgan LaMantia).

Policy recommendations for this KIDS-centered reform of school assessment and accountability are drawn from A Report from the Measure What Matters Assessment & Accountability Council. The Report reflects more than a year of statewide community conversations, data collection, analysis, surveys, and research.

Its time we do right by and for our students and teachers, said Dr. Michelle Smith, executive director of Raise Your Hand Texas. Our accountability system should provide parents and schools with a more holistic look at all the things that contribute to long-term student outcomes.

Texas schools help build well-rounded young people who will lead Texas and fuel our future workforce. But the test-centric system we use to grade our public schools is anything but well-rounded.

About Raise Your Hand Texas

Raise Your Hand Texas is a non-partisan nonprofit organization supporting public policy solutions that invest in Texas 5.4 million public school students, encourage innovation and autonomy, and improve college and workforce readiness. Our statewide advocacy team works in communities throughout the state to raise the voices of parents, teachers, community leaders, business owners, and students who care about the future of public education. Our advocacy work, alongside current research, informs the policy recommendations we make to Texas lawmakers. For more information, visit www.RaiseYourHandTexas.org

Connect with us on Twitter: @RYHTexas

Connect with us on Facebook: /RaiseYourHandTexas

Connect with us on LinkedIn: /raise-your-hand-texas

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005183/en/

Anne Lasseigne Tiedt, APR

[email protected], (512) 784-3805

Source: Raise Your Hand Texas
HANOI, Vietnam & TEL AVIV, Israel--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Vietnam Technological and Commercial Joint Stock Bank (Techcombank) today announced a new partnership with Personetics, the global leader in financial data-driven personalization and customer engagement for financial services, to introduce artificial intelligence (AI)-powered money management capabilities.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230417005473/en/

Techcombank and Personetics partnership (Graphic: Business Wire)

The cost-of-living crisis has been impacting consumers in Vietnam and around the world. In a recent survey of 5000 banking customers conducted by Personetics, 56% were very concerned about how rising costs are affecting their daily lives and impacting their finances. Vietnam is also facing the challenge of a getting old before getting rich population (*). Despite feeling secure in their current personal finances, 49.4% of participants in a survey conducted by Techcombank reported feeling stressed about their money management, due to a lack of: tools (26.5%); time and mental bandwidth (22.9%), knowledge (16.9%), and confidence in their income (44.6%).

To help address these concerns, Techcombank has joined forces with Personetics to provide its nearly 11M customers with a hyper-personalized banking experience that helps them achieve financial wellness. The partnership will bring new advanced money management capabilities to Techcombank mobile app that have been designed to create an automated, personalized, and independent financial journey for customers. They will offer capabilities designed to analyze customers financial transactions, aggregate bank accounts, and provide valuable insights about unexpected payments, excessive spending, and insufficient account balances. The technology also provides tailored suggestions on savings, asset growth, and card usage to help customers increase their financial resilience and achieve their goals independently.

Pranav Seth, Chief Digital Officer of Techcombank

At Techcombank, our mission is to revolutionize the way our customers manage their finances to achieve more in life. We believe that data-led insights and personalized financial solutions are the key to unlocking true financial wellness and will enable our customers to make smarter financial decisions that align with their unique goals and challenges. From identifying new savings opportunities to proactively monitoring spend, our ultimate goal is to empower our customers with unprecedented convenience and control. Our partnership with Personetics marks a significant milestone in our long-term vision of enhancing our customers' lives by making banking hyper-personal to each and every customer.

Huyen, a 30-year-old freelancer, manages her fluctuating income using Techcombank's AI-powered money management capabilities. The mobile app helps her track her expenses, invoices, and payments, and assists her in tracking her budget each month. It also provides her with personalized financial advice, such as which accounts to pay first and which investments to consider, enabling her to make informed decisions that optimize her finances.

Huyen shared her positive experience: "Techcombank's new features have been a game changer for me. With my income varying from month to month, it's been a challenge to stay on top of my finances. But the apps personalized recommendations on how to save more and invest wisely have been invaluable. I feel much more in control of my finances now."

Similarly, Minh, a busy executive in his 40s with a high income, uses the Techcombank Mobile to optimize his investments with ease. Not only is he able to track his expenses and investment portfolio while on the go and receive day-to-day insights, with the latest AI technology Minh can also receive personalized advice on saving money, reducing unnecessary expenses, and investing in products that align with his financial goals and risk appetite.

After deploying these advanced money management capabilities in a 3-week pilot program with 10,000 participating customers, the results were impressive. During that time, Techcombank saw substantial increases in the following metrics:

Savings balances increased 9%

Customer monthly average log-in rates  up from 14.2 times before the pilot period, to 77.3 times during the period.

Installments volume (up 43.7%) and total installment value (up 32%).

Santhosh Mahendiran, Chief Data and Analytics Officer, Techcombank

"Combining the power of our data and insights with Personetics provides us with a fantastic opportunity to tailor unique customer journeys. In a world where all products can be easily replicated, what ultimately differentiates every bank is how we use data & create unique experiences for each customer. At Techcombank, the customer is at the heart of everything we do. We believe that the strategic partnership with Personetics is a step towards 'Change banking, Change lives'.

David Sosna, Personetics Co-Founder & CEO

"We're thrilled to join forces with Techcombank, one of the most innovative banks in Vietnam and Southeast Asia. Their pilot phase results were extremely promising and surpassed expectations, indicating that Techcombank's customers are eager for the personalized insights and advice that only the Personetics platform can offer. We eagerly anticipate the next phase of our partnership, where we will continue to collaborate with Techcombank in enhancing the financial well-being of their customers and delivering substantial business outcomes."

The partnership between Techcombank and Personetics promises to transform Vietnam's banking industry. Techcombank is confident that by partnering with high-profile companies like Personetics, they can continue to develop innovative solutions to enhance their customers' banking experience.

About Techcombank

Vietnam Technological and Commercial Joint Stock Bank (Techcombank) is one of the largest joint stock banks in Vietnam, and a leading bank in Asia, with a vision to Change Banking, Change Lives. The Bank pursues a proven customer-centric strategy in providing a broad range of retail and corporate banking solutions and services to help financially empower its customers. Techcombank has over 10.8 million retail and corporate customers, which it serves through a market-leading digital banking platform and mobile app, and an extensive network of transaction service outlets at locations across Vietnam. The Banks ecosystem approach, co-created through partnerships in multiple key economic sectors, adds further scale and differentiation in one of the fastest growing markets in the world.

Techcombank is the only bank in Vietnam rated with Ba2 (Stable Outlook) for Baseline Credit Assessment (BCA) by Moodys. The Bank is also rated by S&P with BB  Stable Outlook. Techcombank is listed on the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange (HoSE) as TCB.

Recognized for excellence and innovation, Techcombank received the following awards in 2022:

Best Bank in Vietnam  Euromoney in 2022 (awarded for 3rd year);

Domestic Retail Bank of the Year  Vietnam, and Credit Card Initiative of the Year Vietnam  Asian Banking & Finance in 2022 (ABF);

Best Digital Consumer Bank  Global Finance in 2022;

Best Companies to work for in Asia  HR Asia in 2022;

Leading Partner Bank in Vietnam 3Q22  Asia Development Bank (the third year in a row).

Explore feature on Techcombank Mobile: https://bit.ly/TCB-Mobile-App

About Personetics

Personetics is the global leader in financial data-driven personalization, customer engagement, and advanced money management capabilities for financial services. We are creating the future of Self-Driving Finance, where banks can proactively act on their customers behalf to help improve their financial wellness and achieve financial goals.

Our industry-leading data analytics solutions harness customer financial transaction data to provide day-to-day actionable insights, personalized recommendations, product-based financial advice, and automated financial wellness programs. We offer solutions for mass market consumer banking, SMB banking, wealth management, and credit card issuers.

We drive business impact for financial institutions by improving relevant product targeting for accurate, efficient cross-selling and upselling. We help financial institutions deepen their customer relationships, increase core deposits and customer retention, expand share of wallet, and boost Customer Lifetime Value.

Personetics currently serves over 100 financial institutions spanning 32 global markets, reaching 130 million customers. We are backed by leading venture capital and private equity investors, with offices in New York, London, Tel Aviv, Singapore, Tokyo, Paris, Spain, and Australia.

Learn more at personetics.com

(*) Financial Literacy and Retirement Planning in Vietnam (2017) Do Thu Huong* VNU International School

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230417005473/en/

Media

Michal Milgalter, Global Head of Marketing

[email protected]

Source: Personetics
MIAMI--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Trivest Partners (Trivest) announces the formation of Pet Resort Hospitality Group (PRHG or the Company), a buy-and-build thesis in the pet services industry with the goal of building a best-in-class operation across various states with a focus on daycare, boarding, grooming, and training. Trivests investment will come from Trivest Discovery Fund II, a $600 million fund dedicated to investing in founder and family-owned businesses within fragmented industries that have enormous potential to scale. PRHG is Trivest Discovery Fund IIs 2nd platform investment.

The announcement follows PRHGs acquisition of Play All Day (PAD), a five-location pet resort across New Hampshire and Massachusetts providing daycare, boarding, grooming, and dog bath services. Amanda Field, who founded PAD in 2007, will continue to operate the business while helping PRHG greenfield new locations across the Northeast. PRHG will serve as the umbrella for the platform with each acquired business retaining its brand equity in its served market.

Queens Court Capital Management (Queens Court), led by Azhar Quader, co-founded, architected and co-invested in PRHG alongside Trivest. Quader is an experienced private equity professional with a history of successful investments across various end-markets, including the pet care services space. Quader reunited with Eyal Cohen, Co-Founder of PRHG, on launching the strategy to build a nationwide platform. Quader and Cohen recently exited a successful investment in the pet care services space.

We believe that PRHG has the opportunity to become a scaled platform with several best-in-class brands across multiple markets. There are over 128,000 similar businesses in the United States amounting to a total annual spend of $9 billion in pet boarding, grooming, and day care services. We are confident that our deep industry experience and expertise in rapidly scaling businesses through acquisitions will help us be successful growing PRHG to its full potential. We are excited to bring data-driven decision making and improvements across financial and operational playbooks into this end market. It has been a pleasure getting to know Amanda, and we are excited to embark on this journey together alongside Play All Day and Trivest. said Quader, who will also serve as Executive Chairman of PRHG.

Im proud to partner with Queens Court and Trivest Partners in building a new platform in the pet resort and hospitality space. We are building the very best pet hospitality business in the industry and plan to be a home for many owners like Amanda. We will nurture a collaborative and familial culture by empowering employees, investing in their personal well-being, and creating the best culture in the pet services industry said Cohen, who will serve as Chief Development Officer.

PRHG represents a unique opportunity for Trivest to partner with a talented and experienced leadership team to build a leading, full-suite pet services platform. Trivests strategy of partnering with and growing founder and family-owned businesses in fragmented industries is well-aligned with PRHG. We plan to leverage Trivests deep consumer services experience to help PRHG become one of the leading pet services companies, while preserving the lasting legacies and established brands that founders have built, added Brian Connell, Partner at Trivest.

About Pet Resort Hospitality Group

Pet Resort Hospitality Group is a provider of pet services including daycare, boarding, grooming, and training. PRHG is led by a management team with a lengthy track record of successful private equity transactions, with recent success in the animal companion space. Each business within the PRHG family benefits from the experience of the PRHG leadership team in areas such as acquisition planning and integration, growth planning and strategic tactics, brand and technology unification, scalable resources and support, and back-office management. The Company is currently pursuing strategic add-on acquisitions of multi-unit pet services businesses throughout the United States. To learn more, visit www.petresorts.love.

About Trivest

Founded in 1981, Trivest Partners is one of the oldest private investment firms in the United States. For over four decades, Trivest has built its entire business model around helping founder-owned businesses transition and realize a long-term future as successful independent companies. Over its history, the firm has completed nearly 500 transactions, totaling almost $8 billion in value. To learn more, visit www.trivest.com.

About Queens Court Capital Management

Queens Court Capital Management is a new age private equity firm that incorporates the best practices from being an operator, an entrepreneur, and an investor. Led by Azhar Quader, Queens Court is a special situations control oriented private equity firm building on a successful track record as an independent sponsor. Over the past few years Queens Court has deployed over $100 million in equity capital across several proprietary platforms in the middle market and has successfully realized results putting it in the top percentile of independent sponsors. In each investment Queens Court activates value creation playbooks strategically and leverages deep operator networks, maximizing returns in each investment, while protecting for the downside. Queens Court has generated significant value creation for its investor base including successful exits, partial sales, and dividend recapitalizations across portfolio companies.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005464/en/

Herby Raymond

[email protected]

(305) 858-2200



Azhar Quader

[email protected]

(914) 217-5726

Source: Trivest Partners
Set Carbon Emissions Reduction Target to Reduce Scope 1 Emissions Intensity Per Active Day by 10% to 20% by 2030

Increases Transparency Through Aligning with the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) Framework

HAMILTON, Bermuda--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Valaris Limited (NYSE: VAL) ("Valaris" or the "Company") today announced that it has issued its 2022 Sustainability Report, showcasing the Companys commitment to and advancement of its near- and long-term Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) priorities. The Sustainability Report can be found on the Safety & Environment  Sustainability page of the Valaris website at www.valaris.com.

President and Chief Executive Officer Anton Dibowitz said, At Valaris, we are proud to provide responsible solutions that deliver energy to the world. We continue to develop our sustainability program, including this year setting goals that drive meaningful advancements toward building a more resilient and sustainable company. We look forward to promoting sustainable business practices alongside our stakeholders.

As part of its commitment to sustainability, Valaris has set a target to reduce Scope 1 emissions intensity per active day by 10% to 20% by 2030 compared to a 2019 baseline. The Company has identified a clear roadmap to reach its target based on four areas of focus:

Energy Efficient Practices : Optimizing the efficiency of power generation on drilling units, including implementing a fleet-wide digitalization of diesel engine monitoring and developing Power Management Plans to optimize diesel engine fuel consumption

: Optimizing the efficiency of power generation on drilling units, including implementing a fleet-wide digitalization of diesel engine monitoring and developing Power Management Plans to optimize diesel engine fuel consumption Energy-Saving Upgrades and Procedures : Rolling-out energy efficient technologies, such as the ABS enhanced electrical system notation, EHS-E, installed on one of its drillships with an additional drillship currently being upgraded

: Rolling-out energy efficient technologies, such as the ABS enhanced electrical system notation, EHS-E, installed on one of its drillships with an additional drillship currently being upgraded Biofuel Blends: Using biofuel blends, where made available by customers

Using biofuel blends, where made available by customers Jackup Rig Electrification: Electrifying jackup drilling units using a local electric grid or from other sources, where made available by customers

The Company believes this to be a credible target range based on technologies that exist today and may increase the target as new technologies become available. Valaris remains focused on exploring ways to continuously improve its overall impact on the environment, including the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

Further, the Company has aligned the Sustainability Report with the standards of the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD), in addition to the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB), with references to other frameworks such as the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP), where relevant.

About Valaris Limited

Valaris Limited (NYSE: VAL) is the industry leader in offshore drilling services across all water depths and geographies. Operating a high-quality rig fleet of ultra-deepwater drillships, versatile semisubmersibles and modern shallow-water jackups, Valaris has experience operating in nearly every major offshore basin. Valaris maintains an unwavering commitment to safety, operational excellence, and customer satisfaction, with a focus on technology and innovation. Valaris Limited is a Bermuda exempted company (Bermuda No. 56245). To learn more, visit our website at www.valaris.com.

Cautionary Statements

Statements contained in this press release, as well as materials or websites that are cross-referenced, that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include words or phrases such as anticipate, believe, commit, estimate, expect, intend, goal, likely, plan, project, target, could, may, might, should, will and similar words and specifically include statements that are aspirational or reflective of our views about future performance and our expectations, aspirations, plans, targets, commitments, or goals, including statements about our corporate responsibility initiatives, strategy, reporting, programs, and governance on matters such as ethics, human rights, sustainability and the environment, employees, policy, business, procurement, supplier, data privacy and information security, compensation, and other strategies, risks and opportunities. Such statements are based on current or historic information, goals, assumptions, estimates, targets, commitments, methodologies, and internal control frameworks, which continue to develop and evolve, may still be in development, and are subject to change. Numerous risks, uncertainties, and assumptions may cause actual results to vary materially from those indicated, including technological advances and innovations, regulatory and legislative changes, stakeholder engagement, global political and economic trends, energy prices, and weather events or climate conditions, among others. You should carefully read and consider the risk factors described in our annual and periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, as well as in our other public statements, for these and other relevant risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements are aspirational and are not guarantees or promises that such expectations, aspirations, targets, commitments, plans, or goals will be met. Each forward-looking statement speaks only as of the publication date, and we undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, except as required by law.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230417005847/en/

Investor & Media Contacts:

Darin Gibbins

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+1-713-979-4623

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Source: Valaris Limited
Mira Petrovic is a Spanish chemist and one of the most oft-cited scientists in the world. She is still stunned by a Saudi universitys offer just before the pandemic: 70,000 ($77,000) a year just to list King Saud University in Riyadh as her primary academic affiliation in a database used by the influential Academic Ranking of World Universities, also known as the Shanghai Ranking. Petrovic, who works at the Catalan Institute for Water Research in Girona (northeast Spain), would only have to make a few three-day trips to Saudi Arabia every year. She immediately declined the unseemly offer, unlike dozens of other reputable academics around the world who list Saudi universities as their primary affiliations. These obviously false claims of association artificially pump up Arab institutions in international academic rankings. The main abusers of the system are from China and Spain, with 12 and 11 academics, respectively.

The Shanghai Ranking is the most prestigious annual publication of world university rankings. Every year, institutions vie to climb the ladder, which can translate into political influence and higher tuition fees. Currently, the institution ranked number one is Harvard University in the United States. Some criteria for a higher ranking are the number of Nobel laureates on staff and the number of professors on the Highly Cited Researchers list (the top 1% by citations for a field) compiled by Clarivate, a British-American analytics company. Saudi universities offer easy money to these highly cited researchers to change their primary institutional affiliation, but the ruse can be detected by analyzing Clarivates data because the Spanish scientists continue to sign their research papers with their Spanish academic affiliations.

In 2019, Spanish chemist Rafael Luque accepted a Saudi offer and changed his primary affiliation to King Saud University without informing his real employer, the University of Cordoba (Spain). EL PAIS reported that the Spanish university penalized Luque with a de facto dismissal of 13 years without pay. The University of Cordoba plummeted 150 positions in the Shanghai Ranking because of Luques subterfuge, according to a detailed report by the SIRIS consulting firm obtained by EL PAIS. If Luque had not falsely changed his affiliation to the Saudi institution, the University of Cordoba would be 684th on the Shanghai Ranking instead of the 837th.

Chemist Damia Barcelo with Saudi Prince Ahmed Bin Khaled Bin Abdullah Bin Abdul Rahman Al Saud (center) and Professor Naif Abdullah Al-Harbi, King Saud University, Riyadh; 2011. ICRA

Chemist Damia Barcelo was one of the first Spanish researchers to accept a Saudi offer and has listed King Saud University as his primary affiliation since 2016, despite his principal job as director of the Catalan Institute for Water Research. Barcelo says he made the change because he was interested in analyzing contaminants in crops irrigated with wastewater in Saudi Arabia. To conduct this study, I had to list King Saud University as my primary affiliation. It was an essential condition  without affiliation, I could not collect samples in Saudi Arabia, he said.

Barcelo is one of Spains most prolific scientists and has signed over 1,600 studies in his professional career. Some years, he published a paper every three days. Publication quality is important for making the Highly Cited Researchers list, but quantity also plays a major role. In 2013, Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz personally presented Barcelo with a 500,000-riyal ($133,300) award for his research on water pollutants.

Despite being formally affiliated with King Saud University, Barcelo acknowledges that he only goes to Saudi Arabia once a year to collect samples and give lectures. Barcelo denies getting paid 70,000 per year as reported by other scientists, but would not reveal the terms of his contract other than saying the university covers the cost of his very expensive experiments, luxury hotel accommodations, first class travel and a lecture fee 2,000 ($2,200).

Damia Barcelo, director of the Catalan Institute for Water Research, receives an award in 2013 from the Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz. ICRA

Saudi Arabia is an Islamic state that executes dozens of people every year, often by crucifixion or public beheadings. At King Saud and King Abdulaziz universities, women are usually covered with a black niqab, the face veil worn by fundamentalist Muslim women. Barcelo says he has given lectures in a room full of men, with female students watching on a screen in another room.

Dozens of the worlds most cited scientists have rebuffed offers from Saudi universities, including Mira Petrovic, who openly talks about turning down an annual 70,000 stipend. Two other Spanish academics on the Highly Cited Researchers list agreed to talk anonymously about their experiences. Not all offers are the same. One said a Saudi professor offered him $4,000 a month in a one-on-one videoconference. They were doubling my salary, he said. The other researcher said he received a message from an intermediary at a Spanish university, who passed on a ludicrous offer from King Abdulaziz University: 11,000 ($12,000) a year in funding for a collaborative study with the outrageous condition that the research papers had to include Saudi co-authors who wouldnt actually contribute anything.

Yoran Beldengrun, who co-authored the SIRIS report, notes the lack of strings attached to the Saudi payments. Some scientists used the money to buy a microscope and others to buy houses on the Costa Brava (in Spain), he said. His Barcelona-based consultancy advises universities around the world. When Beldengrun and his colleagues read about the Rafael Luque sanctions in EL PAIS, they decided to dig deeper. As far as we know, this is the first time a university has made a decision like this [to suspend the researchers employment and salary], states the SIRIS report. It will probably have an enormous impact in Spain and worldwide, forcing universities to re-evaluate the rights and obligations of their academic staff.

The SIRIS report shows that Saudi Arabia boasts 112 of the Highly Cited Researchers, which is five times more than Germany. Luis Martinez, a professor of computer languages and systems at the University of Jaen (Spain), says he made the Highly Cited Researchers list in 2017 and immediately started receiving offers from Arab universities. He turned them down for five years, but when he failed to get Spanish public funding for his projects, he accepted 60,000 ($66,000) per year from King Saud University to list it as his primary institutional affiliation.

Luis Martinez, professor, University of Jaen (Spain). UJA

SIRIS believes that the University of Jaen will fall about 150 places in the Shanghai Ranking because of Martinezs move. This time I had to say yes to survive, said Martinez, after refusing for five years.

Gustavo Reyes, vice rector of the University of Jaen, said: We found out when the Clarivate list came out and saw that Luis Martinez was affiliated with the Saudi university. We immediately called him to a meeting with the rector and spent an entire morning explaining why he couldnt do this. We told him it was unethical and that he is a full-time professor with an exclusivity provision. Article 83 of the Spains Organic Law of Universities regulates collaborations with other entities, but Reyes claims that King Saud University doesnt follow the normal procedure and signed a contract directly with Martinez to change his affiliation in the Clarivate list. The University of Jaen is considering legal action against its own professor.

Domingo Docampo is a mathematician who is well versed in how the Shanghai Ranking works. When he was rector of the University of Vigo (Spain), Docampo observed the widespread obsession with academic rankings and decided to unlock its secret. Ten years ago, Docampo exposed the Shanghai Ranking methodology used by its creators at Shanghai Jiao Tong University (China). Docampo urges Spanish institutions to stop turning a blind eye to Saudi Arabias corrupt practices.

Arab universities buy people off for chump change, but for some academics its enough money to sacrifice their integrity, said Docampo. Sadly, this is happening most often in Spain. We have 11 cases while China has 12, but their population is 30 times our size. Theres no comparison. United Kingdom and Italy have six cases, Germany has five and France has none.

Physicist Andres Castellanos, in his laboratory at the Materials Science Institute of Madrid. CSIC

Andres Castellanos is a physicist who won Spains National Research Award for Young People six months ago for his promising research on atom-thick materials. The Ministry of Sciences notice about the award indicated Castellanos is a researcher at the Materials Science Institute of Madrid, but in 2020, Castellanos changed his primary affiliation to King Saud University on the Clarivate list. It was a condition for a visiting fellowship with a collaborative project, said Castellanos. It was a good opportunity to obtain more resources for my research group. For the past three years, his primary affiliation has been listed as King Saud University.

Andres Castellanos and Damia Barcelo both belong to Spains largest scientific organization, the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC in Spanish). Three other CSIC members list a Saudi university as their primary academic affiliation. After EL PAIS inquired about this practice, the CSIC launched a case-by-case internal investigation.

Saudi universities sometimes use Spanish intermediaries to convey their offers. Juan Luis Garcia Guirao, who was once Spains youngest professor, has contacted several people on the Highly Cited Researchers list, urging them to switch their primary affiliations in exchange for Arab funding. Garcia, who is employed by the Polytechnic University of Cartagena (Spain), was named a King Abdulaziz Distinguished Scientist in 2020. I have never been paid  my relationship with them is strictly scientific. In fact, I have never traveled to Saudi Arabia or set foot in King Abdulaziz University, said Garcia.

Garcia acknowledges he contacted Ai Koyanagi, a Japanese psychiatrist who studies mental disorders at the Sant Joan de Deu Research Institute in Barcelona. Koyanagi listed King Abdulaziz University as her primary affiliation in 2022, and ICREA, the public foundation that pays her salary, as a secondary affiliation. The psychiatrist published 115 studies last year, almost one every three days. Many of her papers are co-signed by Josep Maria Haro, chief scientist at the Sant Joan de Deu Heath Park, who has listed King Saud University as his primary affiliation since 2017.

Professor Jose Angel Perez, from the Miguel Hernandez University of Elche, during a 2019 lecture in Valencia (Spain). UMH

Jose Angel Perez, an expert in date cultivation and a professor at the Miguel Hernandez University of Elche (Spain), says that Juan Luis Garcia Guirao contacted him at the height of the pandemic in 2020. The Saudi offer conveyed by Garcia required Perez to put King Abdulaziz University as his primary affiliation on the Clarivate list. Despite his reservations, Perez complied. In return, he was named a Distinguished Affiliate Professor for a year. I didnt get paid for that  it was honorary. If others got paid, I guess Im the sucker. Perez knows his decision affected his real employers position in the academic rankings. Ill always regret this and have apologized to my university, he said.

However, Jordi Sardans blames the Spanish scientific system for forcing him to affiliate falsely with King Abdulaziz University. According to his website, Sardans has a doctorate in biology, two masters degrees in terrestrial ecology and chemical analysis, and two bachelors degrees in pharmacy and chemistry. He has published over 110 studies, including many in prestigious journals like Nature, where a recent paper of his warned about abrupt changes in ecosystems caused by climate change. However, Sardans says that for seven years he had to juggle a part-time job as a high school teacher with a full-time job at the Center for Ecological Research and Forestry Applications (affiliate with the Autonomous University of Barcelona). My contract has no exclusivity provision. Im free to work for anyone and the Spanish government hasnt given me anything. Im doing top-flight science and my wallet is empty. So, if I can earn a few bucks because Im on the Clarivate list and opportunities come my way, then I feel morally justified in accepting them, he said.

The other four academics working in Spain and affiliated with Saudi universities in 2022 are marine ecologist Angel Borja (Basque technology center AZTI); food expert Francesca Giampieri (European Atlantic University in Santander); and Ruben Dominguez and Mirian Pateiro, two researchers from a publicly funded institution in Galicia (Centro Tecnoloxico da Carne). AZTI confirmed that it authorized Angel Borjas agreement with King Abdulaziz University. Giampieri is an Italian citizen who only said she has collaborated with many universities around the world and ended her association with King Abdulaziz University in 2022, as did Borja. Our attempts to contact the two researchers with the Centro Tecnoloxico da Carne were unsuccessful. Since 2014, 19 scientists in Spain have been affiliated with a Saudi university at some point.

The Shanghai Ranking methodology also considers the number of studies published in two prestigious scientific journals: Nature and Science. Agricultural engineer Blanca Landa, from the CSICs Institute for Sustainable Agriculture in Cordoba (Spain) claims to have proof that Saudi Arabia tries to skew that factor as well. In November 2022, Landa received a message from a professor at King Saud University: I would like you to include me in studies you are going to publish in Nature or other top journals... I can offer you $1,500 for each published study [listing me as a co-author] and invite you here as a visiting professor with all expenses paid. Landa immediately replied, I am not at all interested and dont contact me again.

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NORTH ANDOVER, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Watts Water Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: WTS), will hold a live webcast of its conference call to discuss First Quarter 2023 results on Thursday, May 4, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Standard Time. Watts Water Technologies, Inc. will announce its financial results for this period in a press release to be issued after market close on Wednesday, May 3, 2023.

This call can be accessed by visiting the Investor Relations section of the Companys website at www.watts.com. Following the webcast, an archived version of the call will be available at the same address until May 3, 2024.

Watts Water Technologies, Inc., through its family of companies, is a global manufacturer headquartered in the USA that provides one of the broadest plumbing, heating, and water quality product lines in the world. Watts Water companies and brands offer innovative plumbing, heating, and water quality solutions for commercial, residential, and industrial applications. For more information visit www.watts.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230417005836/en/

Watts Water Technologies, Inc.

Diane McClintock

Senior Vice President, FP&A and Investor Relations

Phone: 978-689-6153

Source: Watts Water Technologies, Inc
Oshkosh Corporation (NYSE: OSK), a leading innovator of purpose-built vehicles and equipment, is pleased to announce that it has invested in Baraja Pty, Ltd., an Australia-based startup that develops differentiated LiDAR solutions. The Oshkosh investment in Baraja supports the companys dedication to innovating solutions that enhance and differentiate its product portfolio in the areas of active safety and autonomy.

We are making key strategic investments to be first to market with new features and functions that make Oshkosh products safer and more productive, said John Pfeifer, president and chief executive officer of Oshkosh Corporation. By partnering with Baraja, we are active participants in the development process to enable best-in-class perception sensor solutions.

Baraja is developing high-performance LiDAR technology that is more capable and reliable than legacy LiDAR systems, for use in harsh environments. One of Barajas unique enablers is the use of prism-like optics instead of mechanical steering to scan the environment in a solid-state fashion, resulting in a high-quality pointcloud for use in self-driving vehicles and equipment.

Our Spectrum-Scan LiDAR technologies are built to provide long-term reliability, resolution and range to facilitate Level 4 autonomous driving, said Federico Collarte, CEO, Baraja Pty, Ltd. These pioneering sensors completely rethink environment scanning to better detect objects at range.

Oshkosh Corporation is an industrial technology company dedicated to making a difference in peoples lives. The companys investment is part of a broader capital raise by Baraja to develop advanced LiDAR technology.

For more information on Oshkosh innovation, please visit oshkoshcorp.com.

About Oshkosh Corporation

At Oshkosh (NYSE: OSK), we make innovative, mission-critical equipment to help everyday heroes advance communities around the world. Headquartered in Wisconsin, Oshkosh Corporation employs approximately 15,000 team members worldwide, all united behind a common cause: to make a difference in peoples lives. Oshkosh products can be found in more than 150 countries under the brands of JLG, Hinowa, Pierce, MAXIMETAL, Oshkosh Defense, McNeilus, IMT, Jerr-Dan, Frontline, Oshkosh Airport Products, London and Pratt Miller. For more information, visit oshkoshcorp.com.

,  All brand names referred to in this news release except for Baraja and Spectrum-Scan are trademarks of Oshkosh Corporation or its subsidiary companies.

About Baraja

Baraja is building the future of LiDAR to enable the autonomous future. With its revolutionary Spectrum-Scan LiDAR technology, Baraja gives leading vehicle companies a solid-state system in the fast axis that sets a new benchmark in precision and reliability.

Spectrum-Scan is built for maximum reliability in real-world environments. Tested on the dirt roads of mines and arctic tundra, Spectrum-Scan has higher tolerance to heat, shock and vibration than other systems so it can brave the toughest environments, from city streets to the outback. For more information, visit www.baraja.com

Forward Looking Statements

This news release contains statements that the Company believes to be forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than statements of historical fact, including, without limitation, statements regarding the Companys future financial position, business strategy, targets, projected sales, costs, earnings, capital expenditures, debt levels and cash flows, and plans and objectives of management for future operations, are forward-looking statements. When used in this news release, words such as may, will, expect, intend, estimate, anticipate, believe, should, project or plan or the negative thereof or variations thereon or similar terminology are generally intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other factors, some of which are beyond the Companys control, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These factors include risks related to the Companys ability to successfully execute on its strategic road map and meet its long-term financial goals. Additional information concerning these and other factors is contained in the Companys filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this news release. The Company assumes no obligation, and disclaims any obligation, to update information contained in this news release. Investors should be aware that the Company may not update such information until the Companys next quarterly earnings conference call, if at all.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230417005869/en/

Financial:



Patrick Davidson



Senior Vice President, Investor Relations



920.502.3266







Media:



Jennifer Stiansen



Vice President, Global Branding and Communications



240.500.6485

Source: Oshkosh Corporation
United Airlines today announces the largest South Pacific network expansion ever to and from the continental U.S. , including the first non-stop flight between San Francisco and Christchurch set to commence on December 1 . United will be the only carrier to directly connect the U.S. and the South Island of New Zealand . With 66 flights between the US and Australia / New Zealand every week, United will operate nearly 40% more flights from the U.S. to Australia and New Zealand next northern winter versus last year.

The carrier is adding new direct flights from Los Angeles to Brisbane and Auckland and increasing service to the region from its San Francisco hub with daily flights to Brisbane, twice daily flights to Sydney and flying larger aircraft to Melbourne . And thanks to United's relationships with Air New Zealand and Virgin Australia, travelers can enjoy easy one-stop connections from these cities to more than 50 destinations in the region.

United already flies to more destinations in Australia and New Zealand than all other U.S. carriers combined, and now will have more flights and serve more destinations in the region from the U.S. than any other carrier in the world. Tickets are now on sale on the airline's mobile app and on United.com  just in time for customers to plan their trips for the region's peak winter season.

"This past winter, United enhanced our network and became the largest carrier to the South Pacific region. Now, this upcoming winter, we will expand even further," said Patrick Quayle , Senior Vice President of Global Network Planning and Alliances. "Our strong partnerships with Air New Zealand and Virgin Australia provide unparalleled connectivity, and with our historic expansion across five destinations in New Zealand and Australia , United is the clear choice for customers' travel to the region."

San Francisco  Christchurch , NZ*

Starting December 1 , United will be the only airline to offer direct flights between the U.S. and New Zealand's South Island , with the first direct San Francisco - Christchurch service. United will fly this route three times weekly on a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner. United's new flight to Christchurch is part of the airline's broader expansion efforts in New Zealand and next winter, the airline will be nearly 70% larger in New Zealand than in 2019.

Los Angeles  Auckland *

Next winter, United will build on its position as the largest U.S. airline to Auckland , adding four weekly flights from Los Angeles . United is the only U.S. carrier to serve Auckland year-round with its existing service from San Francisco . United will fly its Los Angeles - Auckland route on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, starting October 28 .

Los Angeles  Brisbane*

In winter 2022, United became the only airline to offer direct flights between Brisbane and San Francisco . On November 29 , United will add to this service by adding three weekly Los Angles-Brisbane flights on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner  becoming the largest carrier between the U.S. and Brisbane.

More Flights to Sydney and Brisbane

In addition to adding new flights to its schedule, United will also increase its flying from San Francisco to Brisbane and Sydney . Starting October 28 , United will offer daily flights between San Francisco and Brisbane on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner and will be able to fly nearly triple the number of customers to Brisbane from the US next winter than it did in 2022. The airline will also fly twice daily between San Francisco and Sydney on Boeing 777-300ERs starting October 28 , offering more flights to Sydney from the U.S. than any other carrier.

More Seats to Melbourne

This past winter, United became the largest airline from the U.S. to Melbourne , increasing from ten to fourteen weekly roundtrip flights, with one daily flight from both San Francisco and Los Angeles . Starting October 28 , United will deploy its largest airplane on flights between San Francisco-Melbourne. The 777-300ER will add nearly 100 daily seats to each departure. Compared to winter 2019, United will offer 65% more seats to Melbourne .

*flights subject to government approval
The Shanghai Auto show kicked off Tuesday after last years Covid-hiatus, with many automakers eager to promote their brands. Chinese EV maker Xpeng (NYSE: XPEV) was no exception, announcing the release of the companys new medium-sized SUV, the Xiaopeng G6.

The Xiaopeng G6 is the first model based on Xpeng Motors' SEPA2.0 Fuyao architecture, and will feature the EV maker's latest technologies in intelligent systems, power regeneration, and smart manufacturing. XPeng CEO He Xiaopeng announced the SEPA2.0 Monday saying that it will lead smart EV technology development for the next three years.

Ultimately, SEPA2.0 will architecturally empower us in our ongoing quest to redefine mobility experience with compelling value, superb comfort and rich infotainment. He said.

According to previous reports, the G6 will be launched and delivered in the second quarter of this year. However, it is worth mentioning that Xpeng previously stated that the SEPA 2.0 Fuyao architecture used by the G6 can shorten the development cycle of new models by 20%, and the highest rate of parts commonality based on architecture can reach 80%.

Xpeng Motors will have about 10 models released in the near future with better quality and lower costs, said He Xiaopeng, chairman and CEO of Xiaopeng Motors.

Shares of XPEV are down 1.66% in afternoon trading on Tuesday.

By Michael Elkins | [email protected]
The Annual General Meeting will be held at the Companys premises at Lilleakerveien 6D, Oslo on Monday 8 May 2023 at 4.00 p.m. (CET).



Notice of Annual General Meeting and attendance form/proxy form are enclosed and will also be made available on www.belships.com.



This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act

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Front Royal, Virginia, April 17, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Christendom Colleges new Christ the King Chapel was dedicated by Bishop Michael Burbidge of the Diocese of Arlington on Saturday, April 15, with Cardinal Francis Arinze in attendance. The chapel  which seats 544 people  was filled with alumni priests, faculty, staff, and the hundreds of generous benefactors who made the chapel a reality, resulting in a beautiful space that will raise the hearts and minds of all who enter to God.



Christendom currently has over 500 students, with a growing enrollment necessitating the construction project to replace the colleges existing chapel. The new chapel, which features a 116-foot crossing tower that is visible from Interstate 66, is much larger and grander than its predecessor, with the building designed by architectural firm OBrien & Keene.



Christendom first publicly began fundraising for the new chapel in 2016, launching the multimillion dollar A Call to Greatness campaign  the most ambitious financial campaign in the history of the college. Christendom raised money for the colleges endowment fund, annual fund, and for the chapel, completing the campaign in 2018. Led by the colleges Vice President for Operations and Planning Mike Foeckler and Chapel Project Manager Pat Haggerty, the college broke ground on the new chapel in 2019. Construction continued over the next four years, with Hoar Construction serving as the General Contractor for the project.



Inspired by the Gothic cathedrals of Europe, the chapel features beautiful interior work from several alumni artisans; a 2,850-pipe organ designed, installed, and voiced by Kegg Pipe Organ Builders; a restored High Altar and four side shrines by Rugo Stone; 12 bells from McShane Bell Company that reside in the chapels twin bell towers; and stained-glass windows from Beyer Studio. The Piazza of Christ the King sits outside the chapel, which will serve as a place of community and Catholic culture.



The weekend began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in front of the chapel on Friday, April 14, attended by Senator Rick Santorum, members of the Front Royal Board of Supervisors and Town Council, and others. Senator Santorum, who served on the colleges 45th Anniversary Honorary Committee, delivered remarks before the ribbon-cutting, speaking to the importance of well-educated and virtuous leaders and the contribution of Christendom alumni to the common good.



Christendom stands in my mind as a gem  inculcating virtue into young people and teaching them what the good life and a happy life really is all about: a life oriented toward the true, the good and the beautiful, and oriented thereby to God, said Santorum. This chapel is the lampstand that's showing the light of Christendom to this valley, to the people driving by, and for others who will see and hear about this institution, because of the beauty and wonder and spectacular-ness of this chapel.



College President Dr. Timothy ODonnell delivered remarks to close the ceremony, looking back to the roots of the college and towards the future impact of the chapel on Christendom and on the entire Virginia community.



It's by going back to our roots and our foundation that we can find the way forward now for our country, for our society, said ODonnell. It's my hope that each person who enters the chapel will encounter Christ. I hope that all who enter this college chapel will feel the richness of our common patrimony that we have as human beings and as Christians and recognize the incredible heritage that is ours.



On Saturday, during the Mass of Dedication, Bishop Burbidge congratulated the college community and its many benefactors on this beautiful accomplishment.



We rejoice in this magnificent day that the Lord has given to us, said Bishop Burbidge. We rejoice as we celebrate the 45th anniversary of Christendom College, a treasure within the Diocese of Arlington, and indeed a precious gift to the entire Church. I express sincere congratulations and deep appreciation to your president, Dr. ODonnell, and extend my heartfelt gratitude to you, the members and benefactors of this college, who supported this endeavor. Together, with the grace of God, you have built this new Chapel of Christ the King. It is a very proud day for this diocese and this community.



While the colleges many benefactors, along with faculty and staff, were able to attend the Mass in-person, others around the globe were also able to watch the Mass on EWTN.

To view the full release, visit here.



To watch the full Mass of Dedication, visit here.

Learn more about Christendom College at www.christendom.edu.

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Worlds largest barbecue concept provides scholarships to students seeking higher education and offers graduation deals

Dallas, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Last year, Dickeys Barbecue Pit furthered its dedication to local communities by launching a scholarship program for aspiring college students. Building off its initial success, the brand is bringing back this program for young fans of Legit. Texas. Barbecue. to look forward to.

The Dickeys Barbecue Scholarship Program is an achievement-based scholarship that is awarded to five lucky students who meet specific criteria. Students will be recognized for their hard work and ability to lead and serve through their studies. Scholarship recipients will receive $1,000 from Dickeys to apply toward their college tuition.

The application enrollment period is open from April 15 through July 15, 2023.

A one-page essay must be submitted alongside the application. In the essay, applicants should explain their academic and career goals, and how this scholarship would aid them in the process.

Students must also provide a transcript with a minimum of a 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale.

Applicants must be upcoming high school graduates or current college students pursuing higher education for associate, bachelors, masters or doctoral degrees. Including community, academy, technical, vocational, and culinary.

For more information about scholarship requirements and to apply today, visit HERE. All documents must be submitted by July 15 at 5 p.m. CST to be considered for the Dickeys Barbecue Pit Scholarship.

"Dickey's is a brand that is committed to making a positive impact in the communities we serve, and we are driven by the power of doing both well and good, said Laura Rea Dickey, CEO of Dickeys Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. As we open our scholarship program for the second year, I am thrilled to have the opportunity to invest in the futures of deserving students as they pursue higher education. We are proud to continue our efforts in making a difference in the lives of the next generation."

To further celebrate the pursuit of education, Dickeys is also offering two deals throughout the month of May to celebrate graduates and cater their parties. Starting May 1, guests can take 20% off online catering orders totaling $150 or more with the code CATER20. Looking for the perfect gift? Dickeys will also be offering GRADs E-Gift Cards, where guests can earn a $10 Cue Card with every $30 e-gift card purchase.

For more about Dickeys, follow Dickeys Barbecue Pit on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Download the Dickeys Barbecue Pit app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.

For Dickeys Virtual Concepts follow Wing Boss on Facebook, Instagram and Tik Tok; Trailer Birds on Facebook, Instagram and Tik Tok ; and Big Deal Burger on Facebook, Instagram and Tik Tok .

About Dickeys Barbecue Restaurants, Inc.

Dickey's Barbecue Restaurants, Inc., the worlds largest barbecue concept, was founded in 1941 by the Dickey family. For the past 80 years, Dickeys Barbecue Pit has served millions of guests in 44 states Legit. Texas. Barbecue. At Dickeys, all our barbecued meats are smoked onsite in a hickory wood burning pit. Dickeys proudly believes theres no shortcut to true barbecue and its why our name isnt BBQ. The Dallas-based, family-run barbecue franchise offers eight slow-smoked meats and 12 wholesome sides with 'No B.S. (Bad Stuff)' included. Dickeys Barbecue 550 locations across the United States and eight other countries.

Dickeys was named to Newsweeks 2022 Americas Favorite Restaurant Chains list and USA Today 2021 readers choice awards. Dickeys won first place on Fast Casuals Top 100 Movers and Shakers list, been named a Top 500 Franchise by Entrepreneur and named to Hospitality Technologys Industry Heroes list. Led by CEO Laura Rea Dickey, who was named among the countrys 50 most influential women in foodservice in Nations Restaurant News, was recognized by Fast Casuals Top 100 Movers and Shakers list and honored by Dallas Business Journal. Dickey's Barbecue Pit has also been recognized by Fox News, Forbes Magazine, Franchise Times, The Dallas Morning News, The Wall Street Journal, People Magazine and QSR Magazine. Dickeys Barbecue is part of Dickeys Restaurant Brands which has more than 700 restaurants nationwide including brands Wing Boss, Trailer Birds, Big Deal Burger and bbqathome.com. DRB is led by CEO Roland Dickey Jr. For more information, visit dickeys.com.

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Dallas, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Last year, Dickeys Barbecue Pit furthered its dedication to local communities by launching a scholarship program for aspiring college students. Building off its initial success, the brand is bringing back this program for young fans of Legit. Texas. Barbecue. to look forward to.

The Dickeys Barbecue Scholarship Program is an achievement-based scholarship that is awarded to five lucky students who meet specific criteria. Students will be recognized for their hard work and ability to lead and serve through their studies. Scholarship recipients will receive $1,000 from Dickeys to apply toward their college tuition.

The application enrollment period is open from April 15 through July 15, 2023.

A one-page essay must be submitted alongside the application. In the essay, applicants should explain their academic and career goals, and how this scholarship would aid them in the process.

Students must also provide a transcript with a minimum of a 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale.

Applicants must be upcoming high school graduates or current college students pursuing higher education for associate, bachelors, masters or doctoral degrees. Including community, academy, technical, vocational, and culinary.

For more information about scholarship requirements and to apply today, visit HERE. All documents must be submitted by July 15 at 5 p.m. CST to be considered for the Dickeys Barbecue Pit Scholarship.

"Dickey's is a brand that is committed to making a positive impact in the communities we serve, and we are driven by the power of doing both well and good, said Laura Rea Dickey, CEO of Dickeys Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. As we open our scholarship program for the second year, I am thrilled to have the opportunity to invest in the futures of deserving students as they pursue higher education. We are proud to continue our efforts in making a difference in the lives of the next generation."

To further celebrate the pursuit of education, Dickeys is also offering two deals throughout the month of May to celebrate graduates and cater their parties. Starting May 1, guests can take 20% off online catering orders totaling $150 or more with the code CATER20. Looking for the perfect gift? Dickeys will also be offering GRADs E-Gift Cards, where guests can earn a $10 Cue Card with every $30 e-gift card purchase.

For more about Dickeys, follow Dickeys Barbecue Pit on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Download the Dickeys Barbecue Pit app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.

For Dickeys Virtual Concepts follow Wing Boss on Facebook, Instagram and Tik Tok; Trailer Birds on Facebook, Instagram and Tik Tok; and Big Deal Burger on Facebook, Instagram and Tik Tok.

About Dickeys Barbecue Restaurants, Inc.

Dickey's Barbecue Restaurants, Inc., the worlds largest barbecue concept, was founded in 1941 by the Dickey family. For the past 80 years, Dickeys Barbecue Pit has served millions of guests in 44 states Legit. Texas. Barbecue. At Dickeys, all our barbecued meats are smoked onsite in a hickory wood burning pit. Dickeys proudly believes theres no shortcut to true barbecue and its why our name isnt BBQ. The Dallas-based, family-run barbecue franchise offers eight slow-smoked meats and 12 wholesome sides with 'No B.S. (Bad Stuff)' included. Dickeys Barbecue 550 locations across the United States and eight other countries.

Dickeys was named to Newsweeks 2022 Americas Favorite Restaurant Chains list and USA Today 2021 readers choice awards. Dickeys won first place on Fast Casuals Top 100 Movers and Shakers list, been named a Top 500 Franchise by Entrepreneur and named to Hospitality Technologys Industry Heroes list. Led by CEO Laura Rea Dickey, who was named among the countrys 50 most influential women in foodservice in Nations Restaurant News, was recognized by Fast Casuals Top 100 Movers and Shakers list and honored by Dallas Business Journal. Dickey's Barbecue Pit has also been recognized by Fox News, Forbes Magazine, Franchise Times, The Dallas Morning News, The Wall Street Journal, People Magazine and QSR Magazine. Dickeys Barbecue is part of Dickeys Restaurant Brands which has more than 700 restaurants nationwide including brands Wing Boss, Trailer Birds, Big Deal Burger and bbqathome.com. DRB is led by CEO Roland Dickey Jr. For more information, visit dickeys.com.

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Shannon Santos Dickey's Barbecue Pit [email protected]

Source: Dickeys Barbecue Restaurants
LOS ANGELES, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MetAlert, Inc. (OTC: MLRT), a pioneer in location-sensitive health monitoring devices and wearable technology products for remote patient monitoring, announced the launch of its new 4G GPS SmartSole in Denmark through its long-term distribution partner Safecall Aps.

Safecall Aps who has been providing healthcare services for over 16 years and is one of the market leaders in providing GPS telehealth products to seniors in the private and government healthcare sectors throughout Denmark and Norway.

MetAlerts technology promotes lifestyle wellness and independence for patients who have become more vulnerable due to mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and therefore are more likely to be reliant for assistance from caregivers at any given moment.

We are excited to be sending the first shipments of the new generation of 4G GPS SmartSole to support the healthcare sector in Denmark and Norway. Our distribution partner Safecall supplies all of the leading Alzheimer and Dementia treatment centers and clinics in this part of Europe, stated Andrew Duncan, MetAlert Director. The Scandinavian countries are some of the most advanced countries in the world in the use of GPS tracking and remote patient monitoring technology for patients with MCI, consequently making it a large and important market for us. With our manufacturing ramping back up we are starting to fill our backorders and get back to normal delivery cycles.

The Alzheimers Association, in a lengthy special report providing data for 2022, notes that subtle cognitive changes, such as those in memory and thinking, are often a feature of aging, and about 12 to 18 percent of people, age 60 or older, are currently living with MCI.

For all press or sales inquiries, please contact MetAlert at [email protected]

About Safecall ApsSafecall Denmark ApS, part of Sensio Holding AS, has been supplying GPS tracking systems to people with orientation difficulties and a tendency to wander for over 16 years. The Safecall localizing platform has continued to develop through the years and is now the market-leading platform in Denmark and Norway, used by thousands of people in the healthcare sector every day. The platform makes it possible to use different kinds of localizing equipment, but with the same easy user interface each time. This enables the healthcare staff to concentrate on the care and not on the IT systems. Safecall joined forces with Sensio AS in 2020 to expand the GPS tracking service in Norway.

Sensio AS is part of Sensio Holding AS. Sensio Holding is a fast-growing Norwegian-based software and electronics company with a turnover of approximately US $28 Million. The company is the market leader in its areas in the municipal and private markets in Norway and Denmark.

Safecall contact details:

Tel : +45 70200780Email: [email protected]https://safecall.dk/

About MetAlert, Inc.MetAlert (OTC: MLRT) and its subsidiaries are engaged in designing, developing, manufacturing, distributing, selling and licensing products, services and intellectual property in the GPS/BLE wearable technology, personal location, wandering assistive technology, and health data collection and monitoring. With over 20 years of experience and an extensive patent portfolio, MetAlert is a leading solution provider for consumers/patients afflicted with movement, cognitive and spatial awareness disorders. This market represents approximately 2.9% of the worlds population. The Company offers global end-to-end hardware, software, and connectivity solutions, in addition to developing two-way tracking technologies, which seamlessly integrate with consumer products, enterprise and government agency applications. Utilizing the latest in miniaturized, low power consumption GPS, Cellular, RF, NFC, and BLE technologies, enabling caregivers to track and monitor patients in real time. Known for its game-changing and award-winning patented GPS SmartSole -- think Dr. Scholls meets LoJack, the worlds first invisible wearable technology tracking device created for those at risk of wandering due to Alzheimers, dementia, autism, and traumatic brain injury. MetAlerts subscription-based business model is built around technology innovation with intellectual property protection. The company has international distributors servicing customers across the globe with subscribers in over 40 countries and is a U.S. Military Government contractor. Other customers include public health authorities, municipalities, emergency and law enforcement, private schools, assisted living facilities, NGOs, small business enterprises, senior care homes and consumers. www.MetAlert.com

Social Media:

FB: https://www.facebook.com/metalertincIG: https://www.instagram.com/metalert/?hl=enTwitter: https://twitter.com/metalertincLinked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/metalertinc/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUlYP1WQoLdKkDzwhGkx40Q

Forward-Looking StatementsThis news release contains forward-looking statements. The terms and phrases expects, would, will, believes, and similar terms and phrases are intended to identify these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on estimates and assumptions made by MetAlert considering its experience and perception of current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors that MetAlert believes are appropriate in the circumstances. Many factors could cause MetAlerts actual results, performance, or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Certain risk factors that may cause actual results to differ are outlined in MetAlerts Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (which may be obtained on the SEC Website). These factors should be considered carefully, and readers should not rely on MetAlerts forward-looking statements. MetAlert has no intention and undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required.

Disclaimer: MetAlert does not warrant or represent that the unauthorized use of materials drawn from this document's content will not infringe the rights of third parties who are not owned or affiliated by MetAlert. Further, MetAlert cannot be held responsible or liable for the unauthorized use of this documents content by third parties unknown to the company.

For general information, investor relations, wholesale licensing, and consumer purchase:

MetAlert, Inc.Tel: 213.489.3019Email: [email protected] or [email protected]

MetAlert United Kingdom, LondonNelson Skip RiddleTel: +44 7785 364100 Email: [email protected]

Source: MetAlert Inc.
E. Jean Carroll, center, waits to enter a courtroom in New York for her defamation lawsuit against President Donald Trump, on March 4, 2020.

Donald Trumps rape trial will begin next week as scheduled after a federal judge on Monday rejected his lawyers request for a one-month delay, saying the former president cannot make public statements to promote pretrial publicity and then claim its prejudicial to him and reason to delay a trial.

Judge Lewis A. Kaplan in Manhattan said the civil trial on claims against Trump by a longtime columnist, E. Jean Carroll, will begin as scheduled on April 25. Trump denies the rape happened or that he ever knew Carroll.

Kaplan rejected arguments by Trump attorney Joe Tacopina that Trumps recent indictment in New York state court on criminal falsification of business records charges had created such a wave of negative publicity that a one-month cooling off period was needed before the rape trial begins.

There was, of course, a great deal of media coverage  some of it invited and, indeed, provoked by Mr. Trump  first of the apparently impending indictment, then the indictment itself, and finally the arraignment. But the connection that Mr. Trump seeks to draw between that coverage and either the need for or the effectiveness of a cooling off period is unsupported by any evidence, the judge said.

Kaplan said a portion of recent media coverage of Trumps indictment was of his own doing as Trump made public statements on his social media platform, in press conferences and in interviews.

It does not sit well for Mr. Trump to promote pretrial publicity and then to claim that coverage that he promoted was prejudicial to him and should be taken into account as supporting a further delay, the judge said, adding that he was also concerned that the request was a delay tactic by Mr. Trump.

He noted that it wasnt necessary to find jurors who had never heard of Trumps legal woes as long as jurors agreed to be fair and impartial regardless of anything theyd heard.

There is no justification for an adjournment. This case is entirely unrelated to the state prosecution, Kaplan said, alluding to charges brought against Trump on the grounds that he played a role in hush money payments to two women who claimed affairs with him years before the 2016 presidential election. He has denied the affairs.

Tacopina declined comment on Monday about Kaplans ruling and about whether Trump will attend the rape trial. He is required to notify Kaplan by Thursday if Trump plans to show up at court.

In a footnote, the judge cited other legal threats Trump faces to show that a month-long delay in the trial stemming from Carrolls lawsuit could make the climate to find a fair jury worse rather than better.

A Justice Department special counsel probe is looking into Trumps possible mishandling of classified documents, along with matters relating to the 2020 presidential election and the Jan. 6, 2021 attack on the Capitol. Meanwhile, a district attorney in Fulton County, Georgia, is probing Trumps actions after the 2020 election, and New York Attorney General Letitia James has sued Trump, his family and the Trump Organization for alleged financial wrongdoing.

Carroll first sued Trump for defamation after he said Carroll lied when she wrote in a 2019 memoir that he attacked her in the dressing room of an upscale Manhattan department store in early 1996. She brought a second lawsuit in November after New York state allowed victims to temporarily sue over sexual assaults that occurred long ago.

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TORONTO, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Health Coalitions across Ontario launched a major fightback to stop the privatization of our public hospitals today. The Coalition is mounting a community-run referendum. Health Coalitions are organizing voting stations outside grocery stores, local corner stores, coffee shops, at legions and community centres and in every busy part of our communities possible.

Ontario residents who are 16 years or older will be able to cast a ballot on the question: "Do you want our public hospital services to be privatized to for-profit hospitals and clinics?" Yes or No.

The referendum voting days will be taking place on Friday May 26th and Saturday May 27th. More than a thousand voting stations will be open across Ontario. During the month of May, online voting will be available on the main website PublicHospitalVote.ca and workplace votes will take place.

The Ford government has now announced it is moving forward with plans to significantly [their words] expand privatization of surgeries and diagnostics and private hospitals and clinics to for-profit clinics and hospitals. They have brought in new legislation to facilitate this plan. They have used their majority to vote down all recommended amendments to the legislation, and Bill 60, which is in Third Reading debate in the Legislature, is expected to pass this week. They will use their majority to pass the bill, even though Ontarians have never had any say over this plan to privatize our hospitals.

In fact, the Ford government said that they would NOT do this in the lead in to the election, then two months after the election, they announced they were moving forward with the privatization of our core public hospitals' services.

The government has already called for bids for three new private day hospitals to do 14,000 cataract surgeries initially as well as diagnostics.

They have given repeated boosts of tens of millions in new funding to expand existing private clinics to cover care for thousands of patients.

They are expanding the number of private clinics and intend to further expand the volumes as well as to expand the types of surgeries they privatize. They plan to have private hip and knee surgeries up and running by 2024.

At the same time the government has underspent the health care budget and the COVID budget every year by billions of dollars. The most recent figures show that while we are underspending on health care by $1.25 billion, the Ontario government has increased funding massively for the private for-profit clinics and hospitals. It is a big transfer of money from our public health care services to for-profits.

Practically every public hospital in Ontario has operating rooms that shut down at 4 p.m. and on weekends, or are closed for weeks or even permanently, due to lack of funding and staffing. We do not need new operating rooms -- only now they would be owned by for-profit companies. We need our government to support our local public hospitals which have the lowest funding in Canada.

Our assessment is that this is very serious and extremely urgent. The premier told media that 50% of the surgeries currently done in hospitals are easy [and thus could be transferred out of public hospitals]. Surgeries, MRIs and CTs are core public hospital services.

This is not an add on, it is the privatization of our core public hospital services. The loss of these surgeries  and the staff and funding that go with them -- would be devastating to all local public hospitals and would gut the services that remain in many of the medium and small hospitals.

While paying lip service to the idea that Ontarians will pay with their OHIP card not their credit card, in Bill 60, the Ford government expressly allows the for-profit clinics to sell an increasing array of medically unnecessary add-ons to needed surgeries and diagnostics. The Canada Health Act, which bans user fees and extra charges for patients for access to physicians, surgeries and diagnostic tests, is being ignored by the government. Patients are increasingly reporting exorbitant charges for their needed health care including access to doctors, tests and surgeries -- things for which no patient in Canada should ever be charged. There is little question that the Premier is playing both sides, claiming you will always pay with your OHIP card and expanding two-tier charges for patients as it privatizes a whole array of services.

If this government succeeds in privatizing our public hospitals, we will lose our public hospital system and with it, single-tier public medicare. The following communities are joining in the referendum across Ontario. The Ontario Health Coalition is asking people everywhere across the province to volunteer to help. Volunteers can contact the Ontario Health Coalition at [email protected].

Greater Toronto Area: Carolyn Egan at 416-806-7985 or [email protected] Durham: Pam Parks at 905-447-1124 or [email protected] Peel: Mohammad Ali Aumeer at 416-770-7858 or [email protected] Algoma: Albert Dupuis at 613-808-7710 or [email protected] North Bay: Henri Giroux at 705-471-7746 or [email protected] Thunder Bay: Jules Tupker at 807-577-5946 or [email protected] Simcoe County: Anisa Carrascal at 647-835-7870 or [email protected] Simcoe North: Don Copping at 705-549-0366 or [email protected] Guelph: Brit Hancock at 289-690-6758 or [email protected] Halton: Helen Lee at [email protected] London: Peter Bergmanis at 519-860-4403 or [email protected] Oxford: Bryan J. Smith at 226-228-8309 or [email protected] Waterloo: Jim Stewart at 519-588-5841 or [email protected] Chatham-Kent: Shirley Roebuck at 226-402-2724 or [email protected] Grey Bruce County: Norah Beatty at 519-477-3513 or [email protected] Sarnia-Lambton: Shirley Roebuck at 226-402-2724 or [email protected] Windsor: Tracey Ramsey at 519-995-0239 or [email protected] Haliburton: Bonnie Roe at 705-457-6579 or [email protected] Kingston: Joan Jardin at 613-305-2716 or [email protected] Northumberland: Linda Mackenzie-Nicholas at 905-376-2189 or [email protected] Peterborough: Marion Burton at 705-868-7352 or [email protected] Cornwall/SDG: Louise Lanctot at 613-932-1943 or [email protected] Ottawa: Ed Cashman at 343-999-6886 or [email protected] Renfrew County: Leona Haley at 613-602-1646 or [email protected] Hamilton: Janina Lebon at 905-545-5514 or [email protected] Niagara: Sue Hotte at 905-932-1646 or [email protected] For more information at Ontario-wide level: Natalie Mehra, executive director, 416-230-6402

Source: Ontario Health Coalition
Perth, April 19, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MARCH 2023 QUARTER REPORT

Perseus Minings strong operating performance continues with 130,275oz gold produced at AISC of US$971/oz

PERTH, Western Australia/ April 19, 2023/Perseus Mining Limited (Perseus or the Company) (TSX & ASX: PRU) reports on its activities for the three months period ended March 31, 2023 (the Quarter).

Key Operating highlights for the March 2023 quarter and the nine months ending 31 March 2023 include:

PERFORMANCE INDICATOR UNIT SEPTEMBER 2022 QUARTER DECEMBER 2022 QUARTER MARCH 2023 QUARTER FY 2023 TO DATE Gold recovered Ounces 137,460 130,911 130,275 398,645 Gold poured Ounces 139,553 130,992 130,512 401,057 Production Cost US$/ounce 762 881 830 823 All-In Site Cost (AISC) US$/ounce 879 983 971 943 Gold sales Ounces 58,767 203,154 135,111 397,031 Average sales price US$/ounce 1,645 1,748 1,821 1,757 Cash margin US$/ounce 766 765 850 814 Notional Cashflow US$ million 112 101 111 324

Gold production of 130,275 ounces was within 0.5% of December 2022 quarter production.

was within 0.5% of December 2022 quarter production. US$971 per ounce weighted average AISC was 1.2% lower than the December 2022 quarter.

weighted average AISC was 1.2% lower than the December 2022 quarter. Average sale price of gold sold (135,111 ounces) was US$1,821 per ounce , up 4% or US$73 per ounce compared to December 2022 quarter.

, up 4% or US$73 per ounce compared to December 2022 quarter. Average cash margin of US$850 per ounce of gold sold was 11% greater than in the prior quarter, reflecting both an improved realised gold price and the AISC decrease.

of gold sold was 11% greater than in the prior quarter, reflecting both an improved realised gold price and the AISC decrease. Notional cashflow from operations of US$111 million during the quarter, 10% more than last quarter (US$101 million).

during the quarter, 10% more than last quarter (US$101 million). Perseuss strong operating performance is forecast to continue in the June 2023 quarter with both gold production and cost guidance for the 2023 June Half Year and Financial Year, expected to be achieved.

Strong quarterly cashflows further strengthened Perseuss financial position with available cash and bullion of US$471 million , zero debt, net cash and bullion balance increased by US$66 million at quarter end.

, zero debt, net cash and bullion balance increased by at quarter end. Perseuss revolving corporate credit facility upsized to US$300 million during the quarter provides additional capacity to fund its growth strategy while continuing to pay dividends to shareholders.

during the quarter provides additional capacity to fund its growth strategy while continuing to pay dividends to shareholders. Development activities continued at Meyas Sand Gold Project (MSGP) in Sudan, with confirmatory and sterilisation drilling, Front-End Engineering and Design and site preparation, ahead of a possible FID during December 2023 Half Year.

Organic growth activities including Mineral Resource drill outs and feasibility studies for MSGP and Yaoures CMA Underground Project progressed on schedule. Results due in the September 2023 quarter.

Perseuss total economic contribution to its host countries of Ghana, Cote dIvoire and Sudan was ~US$156 million (approximately 63% of revenue) during the quarter.

Competent Person Statement

All production targets referred to in this report are underpinned by estimated Ore Reserves which have been prepared by competent persons in accordance with the requirements of the JORC Code.

Edikan

The information in this report that relates to the Esuajah South Underground Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve was first reported by the Company in a market announcement Perseus Mining Updates Mineral Resources & Ore Reserves released on 24 August 2021. The information in this report that relates to Esuajah North Mineral Resources estimate was first reported by the Company in a market announcement Perseus Updates Resources & Reserves released on 28 August 2018. The information in this report that relates to AF Gap Mineral Resources and Ore Reserve estimate was first reported by the Company in a market announcement Perseus Updates Mineral Resources & Ore Reserves released on 25 August 2020. The information in this report that relates to the Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve estimates for the Fetish deposit and the Heap Leach was first reported by the Company in a market announcement Perseus Updates Edikan Mineral Resource & Ore Reserves released on 19 February 2020. The information in this report that relates to the Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve estimates for the Nkosuo deposit was first reported by the Company in a market announcement Perseus Increases Edikans Inventories of Mineral Resource & Ore Reserves released on 19 July 2022. An update for mining depletion at Edikan as at 30 June 2022 was reported in a news release Perseus Mining Updates Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves dated 30 August 2022. The Company confirms that it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affect the information on those market releases and that all material assumptions underpinning those estimates and the production targets, or the forecast financial information derived therefrom, continue to apply and have not materially changed. The Company further confirms that material assumptions underpinning the estimates of Ore Reserves described in Technical Report  Edikan Gold Mine, Ghana dated 7 April 2022 continue to apply.

Sissingue, Fimbiasso and Bagoe

The information in this report that relates to Mineral Resources and Ore Reserve estimates for Sissingue was reported by the Company in a market announcement Perseus Mining Updates Life of Mine Plan for Sissingue Gold Mine & Satellite Deposits released on 28 March 2022. An update for mining depletion at Sissingue as at 30 June 2022 was reported in a news release Perseus Mining Updates Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves dated 30 August 2022. The information in this report that relates to Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve estimates for the Fimbiasso deposits was reported by the Company in a market announcement Perseus Mining Updates Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves released on 26 August 2020. The information in this report that relates to Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve estimates for the Bagoe deposits was reported by the Company in a market announcement Perseus Mining Updates Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves released on 24 August 2021. The Company confirms that all material assumptions underpinning those estimates and the production targets, or the forecast financial information derived therefrom, in that market release continue to apply and have not materially changed. The Company further confirms that material assumptions underpinning the estimates of Ore Reserves described in Technical Report  Sissingue Gold Project, Cote dIvoire dated 28 March 2022 continue to apply.

Yaoure

The information in this report that relates to the Open Pit and Underground Mineral Resources and the Underground Ore Reserve at CMA was first reported by the Company in a market announcement Perseus Mining announces maiden Underground Ore Reserve at Yaoure released on 30 August 2022. The information in this report that relates to the other Mineral Resources & Ore Reserves (including the Heap Leach) for the Yaoure Deposit was reported by the Company in a market announcement Perseus Mining Updates Mineral Resources & Ore Reserves released on 24 August 2021. An update for mining depletion at Yaoure as at 30 June 2022 was reported in a news release Perseus Mining Updates Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves dated 30 August 2022. The Company confirms that all material assumptions underpinning those estimates and the production targets, or the forecast financial information derived therefrom, in that market release continue to apply and have not materially changed. The Company further confirms that material assumptions underpinning the estimates of Ore Reserves described in Technical Report  Yaoure Gold Project, Cote dIvoire dated 18 December 2017 continue to apply.

The information in this report relating to exploration results was first reported by the Company in compliance with the JORC Code 2012 and NI43-101 in a market update PERSEUSS DRILLING DEMONSTRATES POTENTIAL FOR ADDITIONAL GOLD RESOURCES AT YAOURE GOLD MINE released on 18 January 2023. The Company confirms that it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affect the information in these market releases.

Caution Regarding Forward Looking Information:

This report contains forward-looking information which is based on the 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 of the Company believes to be relevant and reasonable in the circumstances at the date that such statements are made, but which may prove to be incorrect. Assumptions have been made by the Company regarding, among other things: the price of gold, continuing commercial production at the Yaoure Gold Mine, the Edikan Gold Mine and the Sissingue Gold Mine without any major disruption due to the COVID-19 pandemic or otherwise, the receipt of required governmental approvals, the accuracy of capital and operating cost estimates, the ability of the Company to operate in a safe, efficient and effective manner and the ability of the Company to obtain financing as and when required and on reasonable terms. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list is not exhaustive of all factors and assumptions which may have been used by the Company. Although management believes that the assumptions made by the Company and the expectations represented by such information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that the forward-looking information will prove to be accurate. Forward-looking information involves 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 anticipated future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such factors include, among others, the actual market price of gold, the actual results of current exploration, the actual results of future exploration, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be evaluated, as well as those factors disclosed in the Company's publicly filed documents. The Company believes that the assumptions and expectations reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable. Assumptions have been made regarding, among other things, the Companys ability to carry on its exploration and development activities, the timely receipt of required approvals, the price of gold, the ability of the Company to operate in a safe, efficient and effective manner and the ability of the Company to obtain financing as and when required and on reasonable terms. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Perseus does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

ASX/TSX CODE: PRUCAPITAL STRUCTURE:Ordinary shares: 1,367,463,113Performance rights: 12,001,072REGISTERED OFFICE:Level 2437 Roberts RoadSubiaco WA 6008Telephone: +61 8 6144 1700Email: [email protected] www.perseusmining.com DIRECTORS:Mr Sean HarveyNon-Executive ChairmanMr Jeff QuartermaineManaging Director & CEOMs Amber BanfieldNon-Executive Director Ms Elissa CorneliusNon-Executive DirectorMr Dan LougherNon-Executive DirectorMr John McGloinNon-Executive DirectorMr David RansomNon-Executive Director CONTACTS:Jeff QuartermaineManaging Director & CEO [email protected] Nathan RyanCorporate Relations+61 4 20 582 887 [email protected]

Attachment

Source: Perseus Mining Limited
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- DMG Blockchain Solutions Inc. (TSX-V: DMGI) (OTCQB US: DMGGF) (FRANKFURT: 6AX) (DMG or the Company), a vertically integrated blockchain and cryptocurrency technology company, today announces new miner purchases. These purchases are additive to its previously announced 1 EH/s of Bitcoin miner purchases, all of which have been delivered except its final tranche of 300 Bitmain S19 XPs (42 PH/s).

The purchases include 350 Bitmain S19 Pro (35 PH/s), 350 Bitmain S19 XP (49 PH/s) and 850 Bitmain S19j Pro+ (104 PH/s) miners, which total an additional 1,550 units contributing 188 PH/s. The 350 Bitmain S19 Pros were a spot deal and have already arrived; the remaining miners will be added in the coming months to the DMGs Christina Lake data center. The Company is discussing further purchases with Bitmain and other suppliers. The additional hashrate is subject to the receipt, installation, and operation of these additional miners.

Update on Delivery of Containers

As previously announced, DMG has purchased over 40 megawatts of crypto mining containers. The company is now finalizing shipping logistics. The first containers are expected to arrive in early July 2023 and continue arriving through September 2023.

DMG Management at Planet MicroCap

DMG reminds investors that the company will be presenting its corporate overview at the Planet MicroCap Showcase: VEGAS 2023. The conference is being held on April 25  27, 2023 at The Horseshoe Hotel and Casino (formerly Ballys) in Las Vegas, NV.

Presentation Date: April 26, 2023Time: 9:00 am Pacific TimeWebcast Link: https://www.webcaster4.com/Webcast/Page/2963/48002

DMG will be available for one-on-one meetings at the conference venue. To request a meeting and to register for the conference, click here: https://planetmicrocapshowcase.com/signup

Additionally, DMG previously announced, repricing of 3,321,076 stock options (Options), subject to TSX Venture Exchange approval, the number for which has been reduced to 3,121,076.

About DMG

DMG is an environmentally friendly vertically integrated blockchain and cryptocurrency company that manages, operates, and develops end-to-end digital solutions to monetize the blockchain ecosystem. DMGs sustainable businesses are segmented into two business lines under the Core and Core+ strategies and unified through DMGs vertical integration.

Future changes in the Bitcoin network-wide mining difficulty rate or Bitcoin hash rate may materially affect the future performance of DMGs production of Bitcoin, and future operating results could also be materially affected by the price of Bitcoin and an increase in hash rate mining difficulty.

For more information on DMG Blockchain Solutions visit: www.dmgblockchain.com Follow @dmgblockchain on Twitter and subscribe to DMG's YouTube channel.

For further information, please contact:

DMG Blockchain Solutions Inc.Email: [email protected]Web: www.dmgblockchain.com

Investor Relations Contact:CORE IR 516-222-2560

For Media Inquiries:Jules AbrahamCORE IR917-885-7378[email protected]

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 news release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains forward-looking information or statements based on current expectations. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release include statements regarding the repricing of stock options, the expectation and plan to grow its hashrate to 1 EH/s and beyond, the receipt of additional miners and containers and the expected timelines, the potential purchase of additional miners, the planned monetization of certain product and service offerings, the plans and goals of the Terra Pool, developing and executing on the Companys products, services and business plans, the launch of products and services, events, courses of action, and the potential of the Companys technology and operations, among others, are all forward-looking information.

Forward-looking statements consist of statements that are not purely historical, including any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations, or intentions regarding the future. Such information can generally be identified by the use of forwarding-looking wording such as "may", "expect", "estimate", "anticipate", "intend", "believe" and "continue" or the negative thereof or similar variations. The reader is cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking information may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted, as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including but not limited to, market and other conditions, volatility in the trading price of the common shares of the Company, business, economic and capital market conditions; the ability to manage operating expenses, which may adversely affect the Company's financial condition; the ability to remain competitive as other better financed competitors develop and release competitive products; regulatory uncertainties; access to equipment; market conditions and the demand and pricing for products; the demand and pricing of bitcoins; security threats, including a loss/theft of DMG's bitcoins; DMG's relationships with its customers, distributors and business partners; the inability to add more power to DMG's facilities; DMG's ability to successfully define, design and release new products in a timely manner that meet customers' needs; the ability to attract, retain and motivate qualified personnel; competition in the industry; the impact of technology changes on the products and industry; failure to develop new and innovative products; the ability to successfully maintain and enforce our intellectual property rights and defend third-party claims of infringement of their intellectual property rights; the impact of intellectual property litigation that could materially and adversely affect the business; the ability to manage working capital; and the dependence on key personnel. DMG may not actually achieve its plans, projections, or expectations. Such statements and information are based on numerous assumptions regarding present and future business strategies and the environment in which the Company will operate in the future, including the demand for its products, the ability to successfully develop software, that there will be no regulation or law that will prevent the Company from operating its business, anticipated costs, the ability to secure sufficient capital to complete its business plans, the ability to achieve goals and the price of bitcoin. Given these risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. The securities of DMG are considered highly speculative due to the nature of DMG's business. For further information concerning these and other risks and uncertainties, refer to the Companys filings on www.SEDAR.com. In addition, DMGs past financial performance may not be a reliable indicator of future performance.

Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include, failure to obtain regulatory approval, the continued availability of capital and financing, equipment failures, lack of supply of equipment, power and infrastructure, failure to obtain any permits required to operate the business, the impact of technology changes on the industry, the impact of Covid-19 or other viruses and diseases on the Company's ability to operate, secure equipment, and hire personnel, competition, security threats including stolen bitcoins from DMG or its customers, consumer sentiment towards DMG's products, services and blockchain technology generally, failure to develop new and innovative products, litigation, adverse weather or climate events, increase in operating costs, increase in equipment and labor costs, decrease in the price of Bitcoin, failure of counterparties to perform their contractual obligations, government regulations, loss of key employees and consultants, and general economic, market or business conditions. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any 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. Additionally, the Company undertakes no obligation to comment on the expectations of or statements made by third parties in respect of the matters discussed above.

Source: DMG Blockchain Solutions Inc.
Dubrovnik, Croatia--(Newsfile Corp. - April 18, 2023) - The Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) will host its next International School Leader Conference, drawing 125 delegates from 34 countries to Hotel Kompas Dubrovnik from April 23-26, 2023.

Keynote speakers include Dr. Roger Parrott, President of Belhaven University and Senior Leader of the Lausanne Movement, and Dr. Larry Taylor, President & CEO of ACSI.

Tim Shuman, conference host and Senior Director of the ACSI International Division, looks forward to this unique networking time.

"Dr. Parrott has rich experience engaging various cultures around the world," he shared. "This conference for international school leaders has been a favorite on our calendars for more than 20 years."

Parrott, recognized as one of the 10 most visionary education leaders of 2021 by "The Education Magazine," is thrilled to join as keynote speaker.

"I am passionate about helping the people that God has entrusted to me to get the mission accomplished," he said. "Due to the pandemic, this conference was postponed. I am looking forward to finally being together and will share some ways to hire well, conduct evaluation and maintain accountability."

Conference sessions will challenge participants in their thinking and allow for open discussion in small group settings.

"We've intentionally structured this time to serve as deep professional development for leaders as well as a reprieve away from the busyness of school life," Shuman said.

Breakout sessions will cover topics including ACSI's Flourishing research, Trauma Informed Care, Building a Sustainable Financial Framework, and more.

Parrott's keynote session will focus on leading well and embracing change.

"I've always thought I don't have to motivate an employee if I can just help them find their calling and fulfill that calling," he shared.

Administrators at this year's conference will represent 46 schools across Europe, Africa, Latin America, the Middle East, Asia and North America.

To learn more about the International School Leader Conference, visit the website.

Contact information:

Caitlyn Harding ([email protected])

(719) 867-0243

About ACSI:

Headquartered in Colorado Springs, Colorado, ACSI exists to strengthen Christian schools and equip Christian educators worldwide as they prepare students academically and inspire them to become devoted followers of Jesus Christ. ACSI advances excellence in Christian schools by enhancing the professional and personal development of Christian educators and providing vital support functions for Christian schools through multiple services, including teacher and administrator certification, school accreditation, legal/legislative assistance, and curriculum publishing. Serving more than 25,000 schools in 108 countries, ACSI helps more than 5.5 million students worldwide connect to Christian education.

Follow ACSI on our social channels: Facebook | Twitter | Linkedin | Instagram

###

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/162882
Victoria, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - April 17, 2023) - Aluula Composites Inc. (TSXV: AUUA) (formerly Bastion Square Partners Inc.) (the "Company"), is pleased to announce that, further to its news release dated April 13, 2023, it has completed the acquisition (the "Transaction") of all of the issued and outstanding securities of Aluula Composites Inc. ("Old Aluula"). The Transaction constitutes the Company's "Qualifying Transaction", within the meaning of Policy 2.4 - Capital Pool Companies of the TSX Venture Exchange (the "Exchange").

Additional information regarding the Transaction can be found in the Filing Statement of the Company dated April 12, 2023, available at www.sedar.com.

The Transaction

The Transaction was completed by way of a three-cornered amalgamation (the "Amalgamation") pursuant to which Old Aluula amalgamated with 1391093 BC Ltd. ("BSP Subco"), an entity incorporated for the purposes of the Amalgamation, pursuant to the provisions of the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia). All of the common shares of Old Aluula (each, an "Old Aluula Share") outstanding immediately prior to the Amalgamation were cancelled and holders thereof received common shares of the Company (each, a "Resulting Issuer Share") on the basis of 26.05 Resulting Issuer Shares for each one (1) Old Aluula Share held by the holder. On closing the amalgamated company became the wholly owned subsidiary of the Company.

In connection with the completion of the Transaction, the Resulting Issuer Shares will be listed on the Exchange under the stock symbol "AUUA". It is anticipated that trading of the Resulting Issuer Shares under the new stock symbol will commence at the market open on April 20, 2023.

As a result of the Transaction, the directors and officers of the Company are now as follows:

Richard Myerscough Director and Chief Executive Officer Peter Berrang Director Peter Gustavson Director Hannes Blum Director Briony Bayer Director Jeremy South Director Peter Dorrius CFO and Corporate Secretary John Zimmerman Chief Operations Officer and President

Concurrent Financings

Concurrently with closing of the Transaction, the Company completed a $3 million financing through the issuance of 6,776,670 Resulting Issuer Shares and the conversion of 18,223,330 BSP Subco subscription receipts (the "Subscription Receipts") into Resulting Issuer Shares. The 6,776,670 Resulting Issuer Shares are subject to resale restrictions in accordance with applicable securities laws, pursuant to which they may not be sold or transferred until August 15, 2023. Each Subscription Receipt was converted into common shares of BSP Subco and then immediately exchanged for 18,223,330 free trading Resulting Issuer Shares.

The Company paid a finder's fee of $33,180 to Haywood Securities Inc. in connection with the financings.

A company controlled by a director of the Company participated in the BSP SubCo financing in the amount of $246,299.76. This participation in the BSP SubCo financing constitutes a "related party transaction" as defined under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). Bastion Square is relying on the exemptions from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements under section 5.5(b) (as the issuer is not listed on specified markets) and section 5.7(1)(b) as the fair market value of the Subscription Receipts issued to the related party and the consideration paid by the related party under the financing does not exceed $2.5 million. 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 financing, as the participation by the related party in the financing was not settled at that time.

Stock Options and Advisory Agreements

On closing of the Transaction, the Company granted an aggregate of 5,653,713 options to purchase Resulting Issuer Shares to certain directors and officers of the Resulting Issuer, in accordance with the terms of the stock option plan. The stock options were granted at an exercise price of $0.12 and are exercisable for a five-year term, expiring on April 14, 2028. The stock options will vest over four years as follows: the first 25% tranche will cliff vest one year after the date of grant and then 2.08% monthly thereafter for the remaining three years.

The Company is also pleased to announce that Mark Longo, Tim McElvaine and Laurie Clarke have agreed to serve as advisors to the Company providing general advice regarding the capital markets and the business of the Company. The Company has granted 651,442 stock options at an exercise price of $0.12 and a term of five years to Ms. Clarke in consideration for her services, and Mr. Longo and Mr. McElvaine will retain their existing options in consideration for remaining on as advisors to the Company.

Richard Myerscough, CEO of the Company, noted, "We are extremely excited to complete the transaction with Bastion Square Partners and to begin our journey as a public company. We are also pleased to see the strong interest in our concurrent financings which will provide working capital to support our exciting growth plans. The Company is fielding strong inbound interest across all our key markets and geographies as global leaders look to ALUULA and its transformational technology to support their essential product improvements. Our unique ability to provide fully recyclable material is also becoming a high demand product attribute. While the wind sport market remains our major segment, we are seeing strong customer and partner interest in ALUULA across many market segments as the ingredient brand of choice in high performance soft composites."

Peter Gustavson, Director of the Company and former CEO of Bastion Square Partners Inc., commented, "We are pleased to conclude our qualifying transaction and now begin trading as ALUULA. With solid investor support and a strong pipeline of new partners we look forward to using the public markets platform to support investment in this highly disruptive and transformational technology."

Early Warning

Immediately prior to the Transaction, Laurie Clarke of Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, did not hold any Resulting Issuer Shares. Pursuant to the Transaction, Ms. Clarke acquired 22,978,365 Resulting Issuer Shares, which represents approximately 10.21% of the issued and outstanding Resulting Issuer Shares on an undiluted basis, resulting in an approximate 10.21% change in Ms. Clarke's ownership or control over Resulting Issuer Shares. In addition, Ms. Clarke owns or controls 651,442 options to purchase Resulting Issuer Shares. If Ms. Clarke exercises all of her options, she would then own or have control over, directly or indirectly, 23,629,807 Resulting Issuer Shares, representing approximately 10.47% of the issued and outstanding Resulting Issuer Shares on a partially diluted basis, assuming that no further Resulting Issuer Shares have been issued. Ms. Clarke acquired the securities for investment purposes. Ms. Clarke may, depending on market and other conditions, increase or decrease her beneficial ownership of the Resulting Issuer's securities, whether in the open market, by privately negotiated agreements or otherwise, subject to a number of factors, including general market conditions and other available investment and business opportunities.

Immediately prior to the Transaction, Richard Myerscough of Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, did not hold any Resulting Issuer Shares. Pursuant to the Transaction, Mr. Myerscough acquired 74,899,506 shares, through Winston Ventures Inc., a company beneficially owned and controlled by Mr. Myerscough, which represents approximately 33.29% of the issued and outstanding Resulting Issuer Shares on an undiluted basis, resulting in an approximate 33.29% change in Mr. Myerscough's ownership or control over Resulting Issuer Shares. In addition, it Mr. Myerscough owns or controls 1,897,317 options to purchase common Resulting Issuer Shares. If Mr. Myerscough exercises all of his options, he would then own or have control over, directly or indirectly, 76,796,823 Resulting Issuer Shares, representing approximately 33.85% of the issued and outstanding Resulting Issuer Shares on a partially diluted basis, assuming that no further Resulting Issuer Shares have been issued. Mr. Myerscough acquired the securities for investment purposes. Mr. Myerscough may, depending on market and other conditions, increase or decrease his beneficial ownership of the Resulting Issuer's securities, whether in the open market, by privately negotiated agreements or otherwise, subject to a number of factors, including general market conditions and other available investment and business opportunities.

Immediately prior to the Transaction, Peter Berrang of Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, did not hold any Resulting Issuer Shares. Pursuant to the Transaction, Mr. Berrang acquired 48,203,516 Resulting Issuer Shares, which will represent approximately 21.42% of the issued and outstanding Resulting Issuer Shares on an undiluted basis, resulting in an approximate 21.42% change in Mr. Berrang's ownership or control over Resulting Issuer Shares. In addition, Mr. Berrang owns or controls 1,480,896 options to purchase Resulting Issuer Shares. If Mr. Berrang exercises all of his options, he would then own or have control over, directly or indirectly, 49,684,412 Resulting Issuer Shares, representing approximately 21.94% of the issued and outstanding Resulting Issuer Shares on a partially diluted basis, assuming that no further Resulting Issuer Shares have been issued. Mr. Berrang acquired the securities for investment purposes. Mr. Berrang may, depending on market and other conditions, increase or decrease his beneficial ownership of the Resulting Issuer's securities, whether in the open market, by privately negotiated agreements or otherwise, subject to a number of factors, including general market conditions and other available investment and business opportunities.

The disclosure above with respect to Resulting Issuer Shares contained in this news release is made pursuant to National Instrument 62-104 Take-Over Bids and Issuer Bids and reports respecting the above acquisitions will be filed with the applicable securities commissions using the Canadian System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval (SEDAR) and will be available for viewing at www.sedar.com.

About Aluula Composites Inc.

ALUULA is a Canadian-based manufacturer of innovative soft composite materials that deliver extremely durable, light and strong composites to a wide range of applications across a broad range of industries. ALUULA has customers in wind sports, sailing, outdoor packs and tents, and aerospace, with plans to expand to other market sectors. For more information regarding ALUULA, please see the Filing Statement of the Company dated April 12, 2023, available at www.sedar.com.

For further information about ALUULA see www.ALUULA.com.

For further information on Ocean Rodeo see www.oceanrodeo.ca.

ALUULA is proud to have been awarded BEST PRODUCT of the soft equipment category at 2021/22 ISPO for our ALUULA Gold" composite.

For further information about the Company, please contact:

Mr. Peter Dorrius, CFO and Corporate Secretary of the Company

Email: [email protected]

Tel: 1-888-724-2470

TSX Venture Exchange

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.

Forward-looking Statements

The information in this news release includes certain information and statements about management's view of future events, expectations, plans and prospects that constitute forward-looking statements. These statements are based upon assumptions that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, the expected trading date of the Company's common shares on the TSXV and post-closing matters. Because of these risks and uncertainties and as a result of a variety of factors, including the timing and receipt of all applicable regulatory, corporate and third party approvals, the actual results, expectations, achievements or performance may differ materially from those anticipated and indicated by these forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurances that the expectations of any forward-looking statement will prove to be correct. Except as required by law, the Company 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. Additional disclosure regarding other assumptions and risks are included under the heading "Risk Factors" contained in the Filing Statement of the Company dated April 12, 2023, and available at www.sedar.com.

Not for distribution to United States 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/162802
Winnipeg, Manitoba--(Newsfile Corp. - April 18, 2023) - Beyond Minerals Inc. (CSE:BY) (OTCQB: BYDMF) (the "Company" or "Beyond Minerals") is pleased to announce that the Company has expanded the McKenzie Bay, Wapesi Lake and Wapesi North properties by low-cost map staking. Highlights of the expansion announced today by the Company in the Wapesi Lake area in Ontario include:

The new claims cover 227 provincial grid cells and add 5,169 additional hectares

The McKenzie Bay (6,186 hectares), Wapesi Lake (944 hectares) and Wapesi North (1,864 hectares) properties are now connected to form one contiguous property covering 14,163 hectares

The expansion covers important interpreted geological trends (granite and pegmatite fractionation trends) and possible structural controls on these interpreted trends (Wapesi Lake Fault)

"With a 14,163-hectare land position, Beyond is now the largest player in the Wapesi Lake area. This area has recently seen increased interest by resource exploration companies, including Collective Metals Inc. and Cashbox Ventures making significant acquisitions to the west of our property," said Allan Frame, President and CEO of Beyond. "This type of activity, which we are seeing in other parts of Ontario as well, seem to support our decision to focus on Ontario. This province is quickly emerging as a reliable global supplier of responsibly sourced critical minerals."

"World-class deposits of high purity, low-iron spodumene are currently being discovered and advancing toward production. We are confident more of these deposits remain to be discovered here. While other jurisdictions such as Quebec have seen success from a geological standpoint, we feel the economics of transactions being done in Ontario are more compelling and conducive to creating shareholder value."

Mr. Frame concluded: "It is also important to note that this expansion of our footprint in the Wapesi Lake area is consistent with our corporate strategy of acquiring properties for which significant amount of geological information is available, as demonstrated by the information contained in this press release."





Figure 1 - McKenzie Bay Property Tenure Map



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8620/162805_e032b637b4396bea_002full.jpg







Figure 2 - McKenzie Bay Property Geology Map



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8620/162805_e032b637b4396bea_003full.jpg

Pegmatites found within the Wapesi Batholith have been studied by the Ontario Geological Survey since 2007 when the Red Lake Resident Geologist collected two (2) grab samples, one sample (2007CS010) consisting of a bulk pegmatite sample, the second sample (2007CS009) consisting of muscovite-onlyi. Geochemical analysis demonstrated that these samples were taken from a moderate-highly fractionated or evolved pegmatite, with the bulk pegmatite sample having a K/Rb ratio of 109.2 and an Mg/Li ratio of 11.9, and with the muscovite sample having a K/Rb ratio of 47.5 and an Mg/Li ratio of 4.6. The muscovite sample was found to have elevated lithium (Li = 648.7 ppm). Most of the key indicators for the muscovite sample (2007CS009) fall within the range expected of beryl-type pegmatites, as illustrated in the table below:

Table 1. Ranges of Compositions of Muscovite Analyses (Selway, et al 2005)ii Muscovite Li (ppm) Rb (ppm) Cs (ppm) K/Rb Ta (ppm) 2007CS009 648.7 1830 89.2 47.5 23.4 Fertile Granite 200-500 1000-1500 10-100 50-100 10-65 Beryl-type pegmatite 500-2000 1500-10000 100-500 20-50 10-65 Spodumene-subtype pegmatite >2000 >10000 >500 >65

The Red Lake Resident Geologist concluded that this preliminary reconnaissance work demonstrates "that pegmatites with elevated rare metal content and displaying some of the features of potential rare metal mineralized pegmatites do occur in the Wapesi Lake area, but more intense exploration and sampling is required to determine if potentially economic rare metal pegmatites are present." (Lichtblau, et al. 2008)

This work was followed by a regional reconnaissance scale survey conducted by the Red Lake Resident Geologist in 2019. 17 samples were collected along an 80-km transect of the English River Subprovince along the McKenzie Bay Road which passes over the Wapesi Batholith (S-type, peraluminous granite). During this program, three granite grab samples (2019SL11, 2019SL12, 2019SL13) were collected within the current boundaries of the McKenzie Bay Property. The K/Rb ratios (mean = 128.6, range = 110.2-145.3), Mg/Li ratios (mean = 11.0, range = 8.1-16.2), cesium (mean = 17.49 ppm, range = 12.27-24.33 ppm), lithium (mean = 103.6 ppm, range = 68.2-157 ppm), rubidium (mean = 254.77 ppm, range = 193.64-314.46 ppm) and A/CNK ratios (mean = 1.21, range = 1.09-1.30) support the status of the Wapesi Batholith as a potentially fertile, s-type, peraluminous granite. The K/Rb and Mg/Li ratios of these 3 samples were the lowest among the 17 samples collected along the 80 km transect of the McKenzie Bay Road, indicating these are the most fractionated/evolved granites found within the survey areaiii.

In 2022, Bounty Gold Corp and Last Resort Resources conducted grassroots prospecting to follow up on the OGS sampling and recommendations for more intense exploration and sampling. During this program, 20 grab samples were collected from different areas of the McKenzie Bay Property. The results of this sampling continued to demonstrate the potential of the area to host rare-element pegmatites, with K/Rb ratios as low as 50.56 and Mg/Li ratios as low as 1.51 encountered, indicating a moderate-high level of fractionation of the pegmatites. This was supported by anomalous lithium (7 of 20 samples over 100 ppm), cesium (15 of 20 samples over 10 ppm) and rubidium (13 of 20 samples over 300 ppm).

More importantly, together with the OGS sampling conducted in 2009 and 2019, geochemical data is now available for 39 grab samples collected from this region. Analysis and interpretation of this data now shows an interpreted fractionation "trend" along which the lowest K/Rb ratios are found. This trend appears to pass SW-NE through the McKenzie Bay Property for ~12 km as illustrated in Figure 3.0 below. The location and orientation of this fractionation trend roughly corresponds to the location of an interpreted regional scale fault, the Wapesi Lake Fault (WLF) and it is possible the latter may impart a structural control to pegmatite emplacement and the fractionation trend observed through geochemical sampling.

The new staking announced today is intended to cover an additional ~4.5 km of the interpreted fractionation trend, and now connects the McKenzie Bay, Wapesi Lake and Wapesi North Properties into one contiguous land package along the interpreted Wapesi Lake Fault, enhancing Beyond Minerals' ability to explore this entire prospective trend unimpeded.





Figure 3 - McKenzie Bay - Interpreted Fractionation Trend



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8620/162805_e032b637b4396bea_004full.jpg

The Red Lake Resident Geologist also conducted a property examination of the McKenzie Bay Property in September 2022. During this property examination seven grab samples were collected by the Red Lake Resident Geologist for geochemical analysis. Geochemical results are pending, but once published will help expand Beyond Minerals' understanding of the geology and geochemical trends of the property.

Beyond Minerals intends to conduct extensive grassroots prospecting and regional reconnaissance sampling during the 2023 field season and intends to follow the geochemical data to vector into areas having higher potential to host rare-element (LCT) pegmatites. In the case of the expanded McKenzie Bay Property, this activity will now involve additional sampling between known data points and sampling along strike of the interpreted fractionation trend.

The preceding disclosure is based on information that is historical in nature and cannot be treated as NI-43-101 compliant verified by a qualified person.

About Beyond Minerals Inc.

Beyond Minerals Inc. is the largest greenfield lithium exploration player in Ontario with 64 high potential greenfield lithium properties totalling over 150,000 hectares. The Company has adopted the project generator business model to maximize funds available for exploration projects, while minimizing shareholder dilution. Beyond Minerals is advancing certain of its projects with its exploration team and will seek to option other properties to joint venture partners. Partnering on various projects will provide a source of non-dilutive working capital, partner-funded exploration, and long-term residual exposure to exploration success.

Please follow @BeyondMinerals on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube.

For more information, please refer to the Company's website at www.beyondminerals.ca.

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION: This news release includes certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein including, without limitation, statements regarding future capital expenditures, anticipated content, commencement, and cost of exploration programs in respect of the Company's projects and mineral properties, anticipated exploration program results from exploration activities, resources and/or reserves on the Company's projects and mineral properties, and the anticipated business plans and timing of future activities of the Company, are forward-looking information. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Often, but not always, forward-looking information can be identified by words such as "pro forma", "plans", "expects", "will", "may", "should", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", "believes", "potential" or variations of such words including negative variations thereof, and phrases that refer to certain actions, events or results that may, could, would, might or will occur or be taken or achieved. In stating the forward-looking information in this news release, the Company has applied several material assumptions, including without limitation, that market fundamentals will result in sustained precious and base metals demand and prices, the receipt of any necessary permits, licenses and regulatory approvals in connection with the future exploration of the Company's properties, the availability of financing on suitable terms, and the Company's ability to comply with environmental, health and safety laws.

Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the statements of forward-looking information. Such risks and other factors include, among others, statements as to the anticipated business plans and timing of future activities of the Company, the proposed expenditures for exploration work on its properties, the ability of the Company to obtain sufficient financing to fund its business activities and plans, delays in obtaining governmental and regulatory approvals (including of the Canadian Securities Exchange), permits or financing, changes in laws, regulations and policies affecting mining operations, risks relating to epidemics or pandemics such as COVID-19, the Company's limited operating history, currency fluctuations, title disputes or claims, environmental issues and liabilities, as well as those factors discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's prospectus dated February 23, 2022 and other filings of the Company with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities, copies of which can be found under the Company's profile on the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com.

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any of the forward-looking information in this news release except as otherwise required by law.

For further information, please contact:

Allan Frame

President and CEO

Tel: 403-470-8450

Email: [email protected]

Jason Frame

Manager of Communications

Tel: 587-225-2599

Email: [email protected]

References

________________________

i Lichtblau, A.F., Ravnaas, C., Storey, C.C., Hinz, P. and Bongfeldt, J. 2008. Report of Activities 2007, Resident Geologist Program, Red Lake Regional Resident Geologist Report: Red Lake and Kenora Districts; Ontario Geological Survey, Open File Report 6216, 89p.

ii Selway, J., Breaks, F.B., Tindle, A.G. 2005. A Review of Rare-Element (Li-Cs-Ta) Pegmatite Exploration Techniques for the Superior Province, Canada, and Large Worldwide Tantalum Deposits. Exploration and Mining Geology, Vol. 14, Nos. 1-4, Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum. 30p.

iii Paterson, W.P.E., Ravnaas, C., Lewis, S.O., Paju, G.F., Fudge, S.P., Daniels, C.M. and Pettigrew, T.K. 2020. Report of Activities 2019, Resident Geologist Program, Red Lake Regional Resident Geologist Report: Red Lake and Kenora Districts; Ontario Geological Survey, Open File Report 6363, 112p.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/162805
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - April 18, 2023) - Blackrock Silver Corp. (TSXV: BRC) (the "Company" or "Blackrock") is pleased to announce that Tearlach Resources Ltd. ("Tearlach"), which holds an option to acquire, in two stages, up to a 70% interest in the lithium minerals in certain unpatented mining claims forming a portion of the Company's Tonopah North lithium project ("Gabriel"), has reported initial drill results from the first five of eleven completed drillholes from Tearlach's Phase-1 core drilling program at Gabriel. All drillholes reported significant lithium mineralization, including the highest-grade intercept at Gabriel to date of 1,460 parts per million (ppm) Lithium (Li) over 2.7 metres. Tearlach's drilling has confirmed Blackrock's original Tonopah North lithium discovery with core drillholes delivering grades that range from 40-85% higher than the corresponding original reverse circulation (RC) intercepts drilled by Blackrock. These results substantially increase the grade and expand the mineralized zone at the project. Gabriel is situated in West Central Nevada along the emerging Tonopah lithium belt, abutting American Lithium Corp.'s TLC deposit.

Initial results from Tearlach's phase-1 core drill program demonstrate two key things. First, Tearlach confirmed Blackrock's lithium discovery with two core holes twinning Blackrock's RC drillholes (see October 25, 2022, news release). Second, Tearlach's program completed significant step-out drillholes targeting prospective locations throughout the property. Confirmation drilling was successful in establishing the discovery with drill core assays returning grades significantly higher than previously reported. Step-out drilling expanded the footprint of mineralization across a general area of 1.5 x 2.75 kilometres (km) and delivered the highest-grade intercepts at the project. Assays for the remaining 6 drillholes from this Phase1 program are pending, and Tearlach reports that a maiden mineral resource estimate is on track for completion in 2023.

According to the April 18, 2023 news release issued by Tearlach (the "Tearlach Release"), the following highlights were reported:

Highlights:

Rushed assays from the first 5 of 11 completed core drillholes at Gabriel that cover a general area of 1.5km x 2.75 km;

All drillholes intersected broad zones of lithium mineralization in excess of 400 ppm, each having intervals greater than 1,000 ppm Li, including the highest-grade intercept at Gabriel to date of 1,460 ppm Li;

Core drilling has confirmed Blackrock's initial discovery. Results from two twinned drillholes show lithium values are between 40% to 85% higher in grade than the corresponding Blackrock RC drillhole intercepts;

Tearlach reported the following: The longest lithium intercept for these first five (5) core holes is 146.6 feet (44.7 metres); The highest primary intercept grade is 802 ppm Li over 61 feet (18.6 metres); The highest grade, for an "Included intercept" is 1,196 ppm lithium over 33.3 feet (10.2 metres), including 1460 ppm over 8.9 feet (2.7 metres); Assays for the 6 remaining Phase-1 drillholes are pending with geological continuity of claystone stratigraphy indicated; and Tearlach anticipates delivery of a maiden mineral resource estimate in 2023; and

Bordering American Lithium Corp.'s TLC deposit, Gabriel shows similar lithium-bearing lithologic horizons and similar potential to host a significant lithium deposit immediately adjacent to a major highway, US95, and just outside of the town of Tonopah. There is no assurance that mineralization comparable in size or scale to that on adjacent properties will be discovered on Gabriel.

Andrew Pollard, President and Chief Executive Officer of Blackrock, commented: "Early Tearlach drilling shows the lithium bearing system at the project is potentially of much higher grade and more expansive than initially thought. The results reported today were drilled across a 4.12 km2 area, substantially expanding the footprint of mineralization. With assays for 6 additional step-out drillholes pending, Tonopah North is quickly demonstrating significant size potential that compares favourably with known neighboring lithium deposits. The Tonopah Lithium Belt is home to some of the largest lithium deposits in North America and our landholdings represent the strategic crossroads where it intersects with the Tonopah Silver District. Tearlach is proving to be an excellent partner with immense technical capabilities, and we look forward to watching the project continue to take shape as Tearlach aims to quickly advance it towards a maiden mineral resource estimate by year end."

Analytical results for the two (2) twin core holes have been received and reported as the following.

Figure 1

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/676/162816_8efef9f02471ab85_002full.jpg

Notes:

400 ppm Li cut-off grade. No recovery intervals internal to an intercept assigned a grade of "ZERO" The Gabriel core sample intervals closely, but not exactly, conform to the TN22 rotary sample intervals.

Analytical results for the three (3) step-out Gabriel core holes have been received and reported as the following.

Figure 2

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/676/162816_8efef9f02471ab85_003full.jpg

Notes: 400 ppm Li cut-off grade. Assay results pending for GAB-018 downhole from 300 feet.

Lithium results from GAB-008, -009, -012 and GAB-018 show intervals grading more than 1,000 ppm lithium including 9.7 feet grading 1,130 ppm Li, 7 feet grading 1,010 ppm Li, 8.9 feet grading 1,460 ppm Li, and 5 feet grading 1,340 ppm Li respectively.



Gabriel Project Drillhole Map

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/676/162816_8efef9f02471ab85_004full.jpg

Full details of the results outlined in this news release can be seen in the Tearlach Release, inclusive of QA/QC procedures and approval by a Qualified Person (as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects).

Town Hall Webinar:

Management of Blackrock Silver invites all investors, both prospective and current, to register for their upcoming Town Hall webinar, to be held on April 26, 2023, at 11am PT. The event will feature updates for each of the three projects within Blackrock's portfolio and will end with a Q&A period.

To register: http://surl.li/glcvx

About Blackrock Silver Corp.

Backed by gold and silver ounces in the ground, Blackrock is a junior precious metal focused exploration company driven to add shareholder value via the drill bit. With 2.97 million tonnes grading 446 g/t silver equivalent1 at its Tonopah West project, and a new bonanza-grade gold discovery at Silver Cloud, the Company has a proven track record of exploration success. In addition to its gold and silver project portfolio, the Company is credited with a lithium discovery, the Tonopah North project, which is under option to a major lithium exploration group. Anchored by a seasoned Board, the Company is focused on its 100% controlled Nevada portfolio of properties consisting of low-sulphidation, epithermal gold and silver mineralization located along the established Northern Nevada Rift in north-central Nevada and the Walker Lane trend in western Nevada.

For further information, please contact:

Andrew Pollard, President & CEO

Blackrock Silver Corp.

Phone: 604 817-6044

Email: [email protected]

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. Such forward-looking statements concern, without limitation, the Company's option agreement with Tearlach, the timing and completion of Tearlach's maiden mineral resource estimate, the timing of assays for the remaining Gabriel drill holes, the Company's strategic plans, timing and expectations for the Company's exploration and drilling programs, estimates of mineralization from drilling, geological information projected from sampling results and the potential quantities and grades of the target zones. Such forward-looking statements or information are based on a number of assumptions, which may prove to be incorrect. Assumptions have been made regarding, among other things: conditions in general economic and financial markets; accuracy of assay results; geological interpretations from drilling results, timing and amount of capital expenditures; performance of available laboratory and other related services; future operating costs; and the historical basis for current estimates of potential quantities and grades of target zones. The actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of risk factors, including the timing and content of work programs; results of exploration activities and development of mineral properties; the interpretation and uncertainties of drilling results and other geological data; receipt, maintenance and security of permits and mineral property titles; environmental and other regulatory risks; project costs overruns or unanticipated costs and expenses; availability of funds; failure to delineate potential quantities and grades of the target zones based on historical data, and general market and industry conditions. Forward-looking statements are based on the expectations and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made. The assumptions used in the preparation of such statements, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date the statements were made. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements included in this news release if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as otherwise required by applicable law.

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.

1 Technical information relating to the Tonopah West project is based on and derived from the NI 43-101 report prepared for Blackrock entitled "Technical Report and Estimate of Mineral Resources for the Tonopah West Silver-Gold Project, Nye and Esmeralda Counties, Nevada, USA" effective April 28, 2022 (the "Technical Report"). The Technical Report outlines 2.97million tonnes at a block diluted grade of 208 grams per tonne (g/t) silver (Ag) and 2.5g/t gold (Au) for a total inferred mineral resource of 19,902,000 ounces Ag and 238,000 ounces Au, or 446 g/t silver equivalent (AgEq) for 42.6million oz AgEq. AgEq equivalent grade is based on silver and gold prices of US$20/ounce and US$1750/ounce, respectively, and recoveries for silver and gold of 87%and 95%

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/162816
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - April 18, 2023) - Equinox Gold Corp. (TSX: EQX) (NYSE American: EQX) ("Equinox Gold" or the "Company") will announce its unaudited first quarter financial and operating results on May 2, 2023, after market close, and will host a series of meetings on May 3, 2023, as described below.

First Quarter Results (May 3, 7:30 am PT)

The Company will host a conference call and webcast on Wednesday, May 3, 2023, commencing at 7:30 am PT to discuss its first quarter results and answer questions from participants.

Conference Call

Toll-free in U.S. and Canada: 1-800-319-4610

International callers: +1 604-638-5340

Webcast

www.equinoxgold.com/financials

Annual Meeting of Shareholders (May 3, 1:30 pm PT)

The Company's annual meeting of shareholders ("AGM") will be held on Wednesday, May 3, 2023, commencing at 1:30 pm PT. Shareholders who cannot attend in person are invited to join online.

Attend in Person

Suite 2600, 595 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC

Attend Online

https://meetnow.global/MAGS6UV

Questions about Equinox Gold, the AGM or the voting process can be submitted in advance using the Submit a Question form on our website at www.equinoxgold.com/shareholder-events. Shareholders and registered proxyholders will also have the opportunity to ask questions during the AGM.

Corporate Update (May 3, 1:45 pm PT)

Equinox Gold's Chair, Ross Beaty, will host a Corporate Update immediately after the AGM, commencing at approximately 1:45 pm PT, to discuss the Company's business strategy and objectives. Shareholders who have attended the AGM online will need to disconnect from the AGM webcast and login to the Corporate Update webcast at www.equinoxgold.com/shareholder-events.

Registering Your Vote

Unless you intend to vote during the AGM, registered shareholder proxy forms must be received by 1:30 pm PT on May 1, 2023. The deadline for non-registered shareholders may be earlier. Meeting materials and information regarding how to participate in the AGM have been distributed to shareholders and are also available for download at www.equinoxgold.com/shareholder-events and from Equinox Gold's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov/edgar.

Equinox Gold Contacts

Greg Smith, President & Chief Executive Officer

Rhylin Bailie, Vice President, Investor Relations

Tel: +1 604-558-0560

Email: [email protected]

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/162910
Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - April 18, 2023) - FluroTech Ltd. (TSXV: TEST) (OTCQB: FLURF) ("FluroTech" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has entered into a non-binding letter of intent ("LOI") dated April 14, 2023 to complete a business combination (the "Transaction") with Renewable Geo Resources Ltd. ("RGRL").

Trading of the FluroTech's common shares has been halted in accordance with the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV" or the "Exchange") and will remain halted until such time as all required documentation in connection with the Transaction has been filed with and accepted by the TSXV and permission to resume trading has been obtained from the TSXV.

About Renewable Geo Resources Ltd.

RGRL is a renewable energy company pursuing renewable resource-based energy projects in the transitional energy industry. Specifically, RGRL identifies lithium reservoirs that can be exploited at scale for both extracting economic quantities of lithium while generating geothermal energy in tandem. Geothermal facilities enable producers to utilize renewable sources of energy to extract lithium in a sustainable and more environmentally-friendly way than various conventional sources of energy.

RGRL is an Alberta corporation formed in 2021 which has since secured over 140 square miles of strategic geothermal leases and over 260 square miles of metallic mineral permits/licences from the Government of Alberta which have been tested for brine fluid temperatures exceeding 165C with flow rates to support up to 384 MW of uninterruptible emission free renewable energy. It is currently actively pursuing projects in the Hinton and Robb areas of Alberta, Canada, and is also reviewing other opportunities in other geographic locations.

As RGRL is currently focused on initial exploration and development, it is in a pre-revenue stage of growth. In addition to the leases, permits and licenses described above, RGRL currently has a relatively minor positive working capital balance, with available cash on hand exceeding accrued liabilities consisting of professional fees related to the Transaction. It has no long-term liabilities.

To learn more, visit: www.RGRL.ca.

About FluroTech (TSXV: TEST) (OTCQB: FLURF)

FluroTech is an Alberta corporation which was previously focused on commercializing fluorescence spectroscopy technology for testing in various industries. In May 2021, FluroTech expanded the functionality of its fluorescence spectroscopy technology to test for COVID-19, and in connection therewith, acquired a 100% interest in FluroTest Diagnostics Systems Ltd., a company focused on commercializing a Pandemic and Emerging Disease Defense Platform ("PEDDP"), initially targeting COVID-19.

FluroTech's goal for the PEDDP was that it could have the ability to test, thousands of samples per hour for COVID-19 at the point of collection of the nasal sample and provide fast, accurate, secure results. However, due to declining rates of COVID-19 and the establishment of testing protocols by various governmental and commercial bodies, the demand for FluroTech's PEDDP has significantly diminished making the further advancement of the PEDDP unprofitable for FluroTech.

As a result, FluroTech has decided to exit the pandemic and emerging disease industry immediately and halt any further expenditures on the development of the PEDDP. FluroTech is currently reviewing the strategic direction FluroTech will take.

To learn more, visit: www.FluroTech.com.

Terms of the Transaction

The final structure of the Transaction is subject to receipt of tax and securities law advice by each of the Company and RGRL and will be disclosed in a subsequent press release.

The Transaction is expected to be completed by way of three-cornered amalgamation under the laws of the Province of Alberta, whereby a newly created wholly-owned subsidiary of FluroTech ("Shellco") will amalgamate with RGRL, with RGRL surviving as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Shellco. The publicly traded entity resulting from the Transaction is referred to as the "Resulting Issuer".

Pursuant to the terms and conditions of the LOI, RGRL, FluroTech, and Shellco (each, a "Party", and collectively, the "Parties") have agreed to use commercially reasonable efforts and act in good faith to negotiate the terms and conditions of a definitive agreement (the "Definitive Agreement") incorporating the principal terms of the Transaction as described in the LOI and this press release.

The Parties intend to enter into the Definitive Agreement on or before May 5, 2023, provided that either RGRL or FluroTech may terminate the LOI if it is not satisfied with the results of its due diligence investigations of the other Party prior to executing the Definitive Agreement. The LOI is intended as an expression of mutual intention of the Parties to proceed towards negotiating the Definitive Agreement, provided that there is no assurance that a Definitive Agreement will be successfully negotiated or entered into.

The Definitive Agreement will contemplate a reciprocal break fee of $100,000, payable in the event of customary circumstances to be detailed in the Definitive Agreement. No deposit, advance, or loan between the Company, Shellco, and RGRL is contemplated as part of the Transaction.

RGRL will call a meeting of its shareholders prior to the closing of the Transaction to obtain shareholder approval for the Transaction, together with other ancillary matters necessary to complete the Transaction. FluroTech shareholder approval is not required for the Transaction, however ancillary matters, such as a name change for the Resulting Issuer, management of the Resulting Issuer and other ancillary matters necessary to complete the Transaction will require the approval of FluroTech's shareholders at a special meeting held prior to the closing of the Transaction.

Following the Transaction and the RGRL Financing, the Resulting Issuer will have approximately 265,915,238 common shares issued and outstanding, of which the shareholders of Shellco will hold approximately 3.89%, the shareholders of RGRL will hold approximately 81.07%, and the shareholders under the RGRL Financing (as defined below) will hold approximately 15.04% of the Resulting Issuer.

Conditions of the Transaction

Completion of the Transaction is subject to the satisfaction of a number of customary conditions, including: (i) the negotiation and execution of the Definitive Agreement; (ii) completion of satisfactory due diligence by RGRL and FluroTech of the other Party; (iii) receipt of all required approvals and consents relating to the Transaction, including without limitation any approvals of the shareholders of RGRL and FluroTech, as applicable and as required by the TSXV and under applicable corporate or securities laws; (iv) completion of the RGRL Financing; (v) the TSXV's approval for listing the shares of the Resulting Issuer; and (vi) such other conditions to closing as may be customary for a transaction of the nature of the Transaction as may be identified by either Party during the course of its due diligence.

Concurrent Financing

In connection with the Transaction, RGRL intends to complete a private placement of subscription receipts (or similar security) at an offering size and a price per subscription receipt to be determined by RGRL in the context of the market (the "RGRL Financing").

It is contemplated that the RGRL Financing will close prior to the closing of the Transaction. Further disclosure will be provided upon the successful negotiation of the RGRL Financing. There is no assurance that such negotiations will be concluded successfully.

The Resulting Issuer

On the closing date of the Transaction, Shellco shall change its name to such name as is directed by RGRL and acceptable to the applicable regulatory authorities, including the TSXV, which will be the name of the Resulting Issuer.

The Resulting Issuer will be involved in the mining exploration and production industry subsectors upon completion of the Transaction.

If the Transaction is completed, it is expected that the board of directors of the Resulting Issuer on closing will be comprised of seven (7) directors, of which five (5) will be nominees of RGRL and two (2) will be nominees of Shellco, subject to securities law requirements and the approval of the TSXV. In addition, it is anticipated that the officers of the Resulting Issuer shall be nominees of RGRL.

Information regarding the Principals and Insiders (as such terms are defined under the policies of the TSXV) of the Resulting Issuer will be disclosed in a subsequent press release.

Sponsorship

FluroTech intends to make an application for exemption from the sponsorship requirements of the TSXV in connection with the Transaction; however, there is no assurance that the TSXV will exempt FluroTech from all or part of the applicable sponsorship requirements.

Arm's Length Transaction

The LOI was negotiated at arm's length, and none of the current directors or officers of RGRL hold any director or management position with FluroTech. The constitutes an Arm's Length Transaction as defined under the policies of the TSXV.

Further Information

FluroTech, Shellco, and RGRL will provide further details in respect of the Transaction including a summary of the structure of the Transaction, the amount and type of consideration to be paid in connection with the Transaction, the professional biographies of the Principals and Insiders of the Resulting Issuer, additional financial information relating to FluroTech and RGRL, and the terms of the RGRL Financing in due course once available by way of press release.

All information contained in this press release with respect to FluroTech and RGRL 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.

Completion of the Transaction is subject to a number of conditions, including but not limited to, Exchange acceptance and if applicable, disinterested shareholder approval. The Transaction cannot close until all required shareholder approvals are obtained under TSXV policies, unless otherwise confirmed by the TSXV. There can be no assurance that the 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 Transaction, any information released or received with respect to the Transaction may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon. Trading in the securities of FluroTech should be considered highly speculative.

The TSX Venture Exchange Inc. has in no way passed upon the merits of the Transaction and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release.

This press 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 or for the account or benefit of U.S. persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

Contact Information

Danny Dalla-Longa

Chief Executive Officer

403.680.0644

[email protected]

FluroTech Ltd.

601, 256 Stewart Green SW

Calgary, AB T3H 3C8

[email protected]

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information generally refers to information about an issuer's business, capital, or operations that is prospective in nature, and includes future-oriented financial information about the issuer's prospective financial performance or financial position. 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", "would", "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 Transaction, the RGRL Financing, 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 Transaction, the proposed structure by which the Transaction is to be completed, the ability of FluroTech and RGRL to meet the conditions of the 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 FluroTech and RGRL, including expectations and assumptions concerning FluroTech, RGRL, Shellco, and the Resulting Issuer, the 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, uncertainties, and assumptions, including but not limited to assumptions regarding prevailing market conditions and general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties to develop the forward-looking information in this news release. 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. There can be no assurance that the Transaction will be completed in its entirety. Investors are cautioned that any information released or received with respect to the Transaction may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon. Such forward-looking statements, 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 FluroTech 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 applicable securities laws.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in any jurisdiction.

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 of this release.



Not for distribution to United States newswire services or for dissemination in the United States. Any failure to comply with this restriction may constitute a violation of U.S. securities laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/162920
Billings, Montana--(Newsfile Corp. - April 18, 2023) - Medicine Creek Caregivers Cannabis Dispensary in Billings is excited to announce their participation in the second annual 420 in the 406. The event celebrating the 420 holiday will take place at 3781 S. 56th Street West in Billings. Gates will open at 3pm with festivities beginning at 4:20pm. It is a ticketed event and tickets can be purchased here.

Sponsored by local radio stations, 420 in the 406 will showcase several area dispensaries and their products. Attendees can also expect live music, live DJs, gourmet treats, food trucks, drinks, vendors and shopping, smoking tents, giveaways, and cannabis growers displaying some of their best products.

Medicine Creek Caregivers Cannabis Dispensary will have a booth set up all afternoon with a Dab Bar and dabs. Visitors will also have the opportunity to try different cartridges and disposable vape pens.

Full details for 420 in the 406 are below:

Location: 3781 South 56th St W, Billings, MT 59101

Date: April 20th, 2023

Hours: 3pm - 9pm MDT

Tickets: Get tickets here

"We are thrilled to engage with our community and offer them a chance to experience our cannabis products firsthand before a purchase. We recognize that it can be daunting to find the ideal marijuana product that meets one's preferences or requirements, and our team is enthusiastic about providing the community with this opportunity at 420 in the 406," says Ryder Gerberding of Medicine Creek Caregivers.

About Medicine Creek

Based in Montana's beautiful Gallatin Valley, Medicine Creek Caregivers Cannabis Dispensary has been proudly serving Montana in various locations since 2014. Humble beginnings, a compassionate team and a vast trove of knowledge has solidified Medicine Creek as a staple of the cannabis industry in Montana. Committed to providing quality marijuana at affordable prices, their experienced dispensary staff have extensive industry knowledge, and are beyond proud to offer a superior experience to any customer.

Media Contact:

Ryder Gerberding, [email protected]

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/162873
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell walks to the chamber at the Capitol in Washington, on May 25, 2022.

Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell is back at work in the U.S. Capitol on Monday, almost six weeks after a fall at a Washington-area hotel and extended treatment for a concussion. The longtime Kentucky senator, 81, has been recovering at home since he was released from a rehabilitation facility March 25. He fell after attending an event earlier that month, injuring his head and fracturing a rib.

McConnell arrived at the Capitol early Monday and is expected to work a full schedule in the Senate this week. I am looking forward to returning to the Senate on Monday, McConnell tweeted last week. Weve got important business to tackle and big fights to win for Kentuckians and the American people.

McConnell returns to the Senate ahead of a busy stretch in which Congress will have to find a way to raise the nations debt ceiling and negotiate additional aid for the Ukraine war, among other policy matters. And he comes back as several other senators have been out for medical reasons, raising questions about how much the Senate will be able to achieve in the coming months with a 51-49 split between the parties.

Already, the GOP leaders absence, along with those of Democratic Sens. Dianne Feinstein and John Fetterman, among others, have added to the Senates lethargic pace in the first few months of the year. Unlike the last two years, in which Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer was able to push through key elements of President Joe Bidens agenda with the help of a Democratic-led House, the Senate has been significantly slowed with Republicans now in charge in the House. And absences have made even simple votes like nominations more difficult.

One immediate question for McConnell upon his return is whether to help Democrats temporarily replace Feinstein on the Senate Judiciary Committee as she continues to recover in California from a case of the shingles. Democrats have become increasingly frustrated as the Democrats more than six-week absence on the panel has stalled confirmation of some of Bidens nominees, and Feinstein has asked for a short-term substitute on the committee.

Democrats cant do that, though, without help from Republicans, since approval of the process would take 60 votes on the Senate floor. Two GOP members of the Judiciary panel, Sens. Tom Cotton of Arkansas and Marsha Blackburn of Tennessee, have already said they dont believe that Republicans should help Democrats replace Feinstein.

It is unclear when Feinstein, 89, will return to Washington. Her office has so far declined to say.

Also returning to the Senate on Monday is Fetterman, who was hospitalized for clinical depression in February. He was treated for six weeks at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, and his doctors say his depression is now in remission.

Fettermans announcement that he was checking himself into the hospital earlier this year came after he suffered a stroke last year and has struggled with auditory processing disorder, which can render someone unable to speak fluidly and quickly process spoken conversation into meaning. The Pennsylvania Democrat, 53, now uses devices in conversations, meetings and congressional hearings that transcribe spoken words in real time.

In a statement when he was released from Walter Reed late last month, Fetterman said the care he received there changed my life.

Im excited to be the father and husband I want to be, and the senator Pennsylvania deserves, said Fetterman, who won praise for his decision to seek treatment.

McConnell visited his Capitol office on Friday ahead of his Monday return. In video captured by NBC News, h walked into the building without assistance as aides kept close by.

This was the second major injury for McConnell in recent years. Four years ago he tripped and fell at his home in Kentucky, causing a shoulder fracture that required surgery. The Senate had just started a summer recess, and he worked from home for some weeks as he recovered.

McConnell had polio in his early childhood and he has long acknowledged some difficulty as an adult in climbing stairs.

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Boston, Massachusetts--(Newsfile Corp. - April 18, 2023) - Not-for-profit Road Scholar, the world leader in educational travel for older adults, announces a new collection of fully chartered shipboard learning adventures around the world: Road Scholar's "Floating Campus."

"For our Floating Campus collection, we have carefully selected mid-sized ships that are ideal for the regions where they will be sailing," says Road Scholar's Chief Program Officer, Maeve Hartney.

Participants onboard the brand-new Ocean Albatros will learn together in Iceland or Scotland. This expedition vessel with 95 staterooms and suites is one of the most environmentally friendly ships on the sea. Also joining the Floating Campus fleet is American Queen Voyages' American Countess, a paddle wheeler built in 2019 that accommodates 245 guests in 123 staterooms, and MV La Belle des Oceans, a Premium ship from Crosi Europe, which accommodates 130 passengers in 54 cabins and suites. Road Scholars onboard the American Countess will study American music history along the Mississippi River, and La Belle des Oceans passengers will explore the island of Corsica from North to South, learning about art, culture, cuisine, history and more.

"Road Scholar is a nonprofit organization with an educational mission," says Hartney, "and participants can expect to do lots of learning both onboard the ship and during field trips on land."

On each Floating Campus, participants will be joined by two full-time instructors who will share their expertise on topics that will enhance their understanding of the region they're exploring. Road Scholars will enjoy onboard lectures, unique onshore field trips, and access to the instructors throughout the journey for insightful Q&A and discussions.

Road Scholar has been offering shipboard learning adventures, or "Adventures Afloat" since 1998. What makes these programs special is that all passengers onboard the ship will be Road Scholars, and, because the ship is fully chartered, Road Scholar's expert educational program designers have more control over the atmosphere, itinerary, and activities both onboard as well as in port.

"The vision for these programs is to create a college campus for older adults on the water," Hartney says. "The special camaraderie that comes along with traveling amongst a community of other lifelong learners is what makes these Adventures Afloat particularly special."

Participants will be divided into smaller groups for classes and field trips. For each activity, participants will be able to choose between two activity levels, based on their physical ability and level of challenge. Plus, small-group activities like book club sessions will be available for additional opportunities to meet and bond with fellow Road Scholars.

These Floating Campus adventures will embark in spring and fall 2024, and all programs are currently open for enrollments. The programs take place over 11-12 days, and prices start at $5,999 per person in a double cabin. Airfare from many cities is included in the cost of the trip when participants enroll early.

See the Programs:





Road Scholar Adventure Afloat Participants



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Scotland



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American Countess



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Learn more about Road Scholar's round-the-world learning adventures at www.roadscholar.org/floatingcampus.

Find photos here.

About Road Scholar : Road Scholar is the nation's largest not-for-profit educational travel organization for adults - a true university of the world - offering thousands of programs in nearly 100 countries and 50 states. Road Scholar educational adventures are created by Elderhostel, the world leader in educational travel since 1975. Learn more at press.roadscholar.org.

Contact: Kelsey Knoedler Perri | (617) 521-5301, [email protected]

###

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/161994
New research from STL Training reveals that US employees are frequently distracted at work, often overloaded by their work schedules and may be overestimating their time management abilities.

London, United Kingdom--(Newsfile Corp. - April 18, 2023) - STL Training today announced a new study of 1,500 full-time employees in the United States that examined the state of time management skills among American workers. The survey provides valuable insights into the state of time management skills in the US workforce and highlights the need for improved training to address these issues.

New research suggests US employees are lacking time management skills

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"Time management is a crucial aspect of work-life balance, and our survey results clearly show that employees need better training in this area," said a spokesperson from STL Training Providers.

Full survey results and infographic can be found here: https://www.stl-training.co.uk/sharing/is-poor-time-management-damaging-your-business-usa/104

About STL Training

STL Training offers 500+ courses including Microsoft Office Training, Professional and Management courses, Time Management training and e-Learning solutions. They boast an instructor-led training centre in London, UK, and deliver across the United Kingdom, EEC and internationally.

https://www.stl-training.co.uk/

Media Contact

John Pring, Designbysoap Ltd

[email protected]

+44 (0)1432 839 462

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/162536
Three-day writer's workshop set to provide practical tools for diverse writers interested in developing multi-genre writing skills

NEW ORLEANS, La., April 18, 2023 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) Three times self-published author and entrepreneur Michelle Jackson had no idea starting a private Facebook group would change her life. In March 2020, inspired by COVIDs unexpected stay-at-home orders and civil unrest caused by the murder of George Floyd, Jackson took to social media to connect with writers of color and to find resources on how to market a book without leaving the confines of her home. To her surprise, thousands of black authors were facing the same hurdle and looking to collaborate with other like-minded artists. And so, the Black Writers Workspace (BWW) online community was born.

BWW has grown to over 15,000 followers in three years, hosting over 100 author interviews and virtual roundtable discussions, four book fairs, four writing competitions, and a writers workshop. Also, the community has inspired the launch of a new business venture, Direct2Author.com, an online independent book marketing and writing service platform developed by Jackson to help authors build their fan base with effective and low-cost book marketing tools.

Over a million books are published each year, making the book marketing journey more competitive and crucial to the success of a publication, said Jackson. BWW was created to provide a positive space where writers can share resources and get the help they need to publish great works of art.

In a move to expand the BWW brand and help writers of color succeed, the community will host the BLK INK Virtual Writers Workshop on May 18-20, 2023, via Zoom. This years theme is Straight FIRE! Writing to Inspire a New Generation of Readers. The event is designed to educate aspiring, new, and experienced writers about practical tools and techniques for navigating the world of book writing and publishing.

The speaker roster includes Alex Jennings, a New Orleans-based award-winning fantasy writer and instructor of popular fiction at the University of Southern Maine; Jane Friedman, author, co-founder of The Hot Sheet and a columnist with Publishers Weekly; Diane Marie Brown, professor at Orange Coast College and author of the debut novel, Black Candle Women, a Read with Jenna Bush Book Club selection that is currently being adapted for television and Dr. Mona Lisa Saloy, professor at Dillard University and Louisianas newest Poet Laureate.

Hour-long sessions will tackle topics like Land a Deal in 2023, Put it in an (Audio) Book, and Writing Fantasy & Sci-Fi. During the event week, writers can also participate in a one-on-one manuscript review session with professional editors with Speak Write Play LLC, a New Jersey-based English Language and Editing Service.

BWW benefits when experienced writers share their pathway to success with us. Collaboration is key to nurturing a vibrant and diverse literary community, said Jackson. We invite everyone to join us for the BLK INK workshop. Our goal is to nurture the next great writer.

The event is open to all writers, regardless of race, religion, sex, and sexuality. It will take place via Zoom over three days, starting Thursday, May 18th, and ending Saturday, May 20th. Attendees can pay one fee for all three days or pay per day. College students can attend for free when they register with a .edu email address.

To register on Eventbrite, go to https://bit.ly/BLKINKWORKSHOP.

For sponsorship opportunities, email Michelle D. Jackson at [email protected].

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvLTqx4GsQWed70-zOPDZTQ

NEWS SOURCE: Black Writers Workspace



This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Black Writers Workspace), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/black-writers-workspace-cultivates-the-art-of-writing-during-upcoming-virtual-workshop/

Copr.  2023 Send2Press Newswire, a service of NEOTROPE, Calif., USA. -- REF: S2P STORY ID: 89987SI.03
Paid press release content from The Financial Capital. The StreetInsider.com news staff was not involved in its creation.

Lantana tax firm, Creative Tax Solutions, offers a comprehensive range of tax services to help clients achieve financial objectives and comply with tax regulations.



With constantly changing tax laws and regulations, American taxpayers often face tax-related problems and other issues imposed by the IRS. It can be challenging for them to navigate the complex system, but it doesnt mean a tax settlement or successful resolution cannot be achieved. Residents of West Palm Beach grappling with tax issues can call upon a highly competent tax consulting firmCreative Tax Solutions.

The team at Creative Tax Solutions understands all about West Palm Beach Back Taxes and other tax-related challenges taxpayers face annually. The firm offers a range of tax consulting services to ensure its clients are financially protected, including tax planning, tax preparation, tax debt investigation, and tax resolution, staying up-to-date with the latest tax laws and regulations to provide the best possible solutions to their clients.

Creative Tax Solutions puts the needs of Americans first by bringing immediate tax burden relief and helping them clear up their financial situations. For over 25 years, our team of enrolled agents and CPAs has been dealing with the IRS on behalf of our clients to reach amicable and mutually beneficial resolutions.

With its focus on financial protection, Creative Tax Solutions will professionally assist clients in dealing with the IRS. Starting from an in-depth tax debt investigation, tax professionals at the firm will develop and implement the most effective relief plan for each particular case.

The firms tax planning services are designed to help clients minimize tax liability and maximize tax savings, working together to identify tax deductions and credits that clients may be eligible for and develop a tax strategy tailored to each unique situation. Its team of experienced tax professionals has the interpersonal skills to deal effectively with clients to understand their financial goals and develop tax strategies that are aligned with their objectives.

Creative Tax Solutions' mission is to help Individuals, self-employed, and business owners with effective tax planning, preparation, or compliance. The firm offers a flat fee pricing or "Pay as You Go" fee structure, and if, for any reason, clients are unsatisfied with the service, communication, or performance in the first 15 days, the firm offers a money-back guarantee.

For more information, visit https://creativetax.io/tax-solutions/west-palm-beach-back-taxes/



The firms tax resolution services focus on helping taxpayers resolve tax problems and disputes with the IRS. It will work with the IRS on the clients behalf to negotiate settlements, resolve disputes, and develop payment plans according to the clients financial situation. Our goal is to help you achieve a favorable outcome and minimize the impact of tax problems on your finances.

Experts at Creative Tax Solutions are committed to providing exceptional tax services to meet every clients unique needs. Its team of experienced tax professionals has the knowledge and expertise to help clients achieve their financial goals while remaining compliant with tax regulations. Its services cover all areas of taxation, from an Offer in Compromise to the IRS debt forgiveness, while providing clients with qualified and competent support at all stages.

Creative Tax Solutions offers a range of consulting, accounting, and tax assistance services and will strive to provide clients with favorable solutions for such problems as tax levies, audits, liens, IRS penalties, wage garnishment, delinquent taxes, and other issues that stand in their way toward financial peace of mind.

About the Company:

Based in Lantana, FL, Creative Tax Solutions LLC, a reputable tax consultancy firm, offers a comprehensive range of tax services aimed at helping individuals and businesses achieve their financial objectives while remaining compliant with tax regulations. With a proven track record of delivering exceptional results, the firm has become a trusted partner for taxpayers looking to navigate the complex tax landscape.

Contact Info:

Name: Thomas Patti

Email: Send Email

Organization: Creative Tax Solutions LLC

Address: 826 N Dixie Hwy, Lantana, FL 33462

Phone: +1 (877) 707-5151

Website: https://creativetax.io/



Release ID: 89094594

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SAN FRANCISCO (PRWEB) April 18, 2023

WeXL.org, a nonprofit organization empowering underprivileged communities through the creative process, is partnering with The Village Project SF to bring the WeXL Boundless Self-discovery Filmmaking program to 4th and 5th graders in San Francisco from April 18 to May 23, 2023. Making this partnership possible is Oakland-based startup thisspace, which connects community members and local organizations to unique spaces in their area.

"The partnership between WeXL, The Village Project SF, and St. Cyprian's Episcopal Church is the perfect example of thisspace's mission to open doors for the community," said Ian Storrar, CEO and Co-founder of thisspace. "We are proud to have brought them together."

Through the WeXL Boundless Self-discovery Filmmaking program, students will gain hands-on experience learning screenwriting, camera operating, editing, and more, culminating in a final project that showcases their creativity and hard work. Students will also meet industry professionals, learn insights into various creative fields, and explore their passions.

"We are grateful to thisspace for helping us come together as a community after years of social distancing and disconnect," said Arabella DeLucco, CEO and founder of WeXL.org. "Now is the time to collaborate and create joy and meaning through our work, starting with our local youth.

WeXL Boundless aims to help youth explore their creativity and develop essential skills such as ideation, problem-solving, and self-expression. The program leverages the organization's original content and the WeXL Impact Network of arts, media, and technology leaders. Partnerships with local organizations like The Village SF help amplify the impact and expand the reach of this valuable arts and media program.

"It's perfect timing for this partnership with WeXL," said Adrian Williams, founder of The Village Project SF. "Seventeen years ago, I left my corporate job to help the kids, and I've never looked back because there's so much worth and meaning in the work we do as a village."

The Village Project SF is a nonprofit, community-based organization that provides a haven for academic, cultural, and enrichment activities for youth ages 6 to 17 and their families.

For the program's final week, WeXL will host a red-carpet event on Tuesday, May 23, 2023, from 4 to 6 p.m. at The Little Roxie Theater, where students can see their films on the big screen in front of an audience. There will also be a panel discussion with renowned guests and a fundraiser reception from 6 to 8 p.m. at 518 Valencia.

The partnership between thisspace, WeXL.org, and The Village Project SF is a testament to the impact organizations can make when they work together. Arabella DeLucco and Adrian Williams are both Jefferson Award recipients who believe in the power of community.

Read the full story at https://www.prweb.com/releases/wexl_org_partners_with_the_village_project_sf_to_bring_boundless_self_discovery_filmmaking_program_to_san_francisco_youth_thanks_to_oakland_based_startup_thisspace/prweb19289649.htm
TAIPEI , April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Heading to net zero emissions by 2050, many companies are taking steps to reduce their carbon footprint and capture the opportunities from decarbonizing global supply chains. To assist these businesses in their green transition, ITRI today held the 2023 edition of its Net Zero Day in Taipei , inviting experts from various sectors to the forum sessions and technology exhibition, where they can explore net zero solutions and exchange insights. Using a Mobius strip logo to represent circularity, the event highlighted the joint concerted efforts on the journey to net zero. During the event, the Institute announced the carbon emission verification system free for industry association members, a one-stop service platform that provides informative guidance, and a technology financing mechanism designed for small and medium-sized enterprises.

"ITRI Net Zero Day 2023 demonstrated how we are moving towards net zero via multidisciplinary innovation and cross-sector collaboration. The event was held on a larger scale than last year, displaying more technologies and attracting more participants. We are grateful for the support from the Ministry of Economic Affairs and 21 industry associations. It is hoped that the sharing of successful industrial practices and diverse technological solutions can encourage more businesses to take actions on net zero," said ITRI Chairman Chih-Kung Lee .

"Net Zero expenditure should not be viewed as a cost, but as an investment that will reap long-term benefits," said ITRI President Edwin Liu . "ITRI offers businesses an array of services, for example, calculating carbon footprint, acquiring related knowledge and technologies, cultivating talent, and securing funding. We are confident that these efforts will provide great impetus for industry players to attain the net zero goals," he explained.

This year's event showcased 42 key innovations involving energy supply, power consumption, low-carbon manufacturing, sustainable environment, and net-zero financing. Highlights are as follows:

Smart Geothermal Power Plant: ITRI worked with a subsidiary of the LCY Group to apply Schlumberger's electric submersible pumps (ESPs) to a geothermal power plant in eastern Taiwan , which reaches a power generation efficiency of over 1MW. ITRI also developed a pre-diagnosis AI system that employed an ensemble learning algorithm capable of predicting equipment failure up to seven days in advance, thereby reducing operation and maintenance costs.

ITRI worked with a subsidiary of the to apply Schlumberger's electric submersible pumps (ESPs) to a geothermal power plant in eastern , which reaches a power generation efficiency of over 1MW. ITRI also developed a pre-diagnosis AI system that employed an ensemble learning algorithm capable of predicting equipment failure up to seven days in advance, thereby reducing operation and maintenance costs. Total Solution for EV Charging: ITRI integrated a patented non-uniform distribution charging technology with eTreego's charging pile control, which reduces the contracted power capacity by 40% and significantly improves charging efficiency. For a vehicle requiring 100 kWh of power per day, this new solution can cut the CO 2 emissions equivalent to 17 liters of fuel.

ITRI integrated a patented non-uniform distribution charging technology with eTreego's charging pile control, which reduces the contracted power capacity by 40% and significantly improves charging efficiency. For a vehicle requiring 100 kWh of power per day, this new solution can cut the CO emissions equivalent to 17 liters of fuel. Particulate Matter Terminator: This industrial-use dust removal solution can capture over 90% of particles in semiconductor manufacturing processes. It utilizes mist spraying and a centrifugal separation method. The removal rate of PM5 could reach more than 90% with a 50% increased average efficiency. Moreover, the device does not require additional power, consumables, or chemical washing. It has been adopted by equipment providers for tail gas treatment and is going to be verified in semiconductor fabs.

This industrial-use dust removal solution can capture over 90% of particles in semiconductor manufacturing processes. It utilizes mist spraying and a centrifugal separation method. The removal rate of PM5 could reach more than 90% with a 50% increased average efficiency. Moreover, the device does not require additional power, consumables, or chemical washing. It has been adopted by equipment providers for tail gas treatment and is going to be verified in semiconductor fabs. Semiconductor Wastewater Treatment & Reclamation: ITRI integrates BioNET and fluidized bed crystallization (FBC) technologies to treat wastewater discharge from semiconductor plants. The treatment process can remove over 90% of ammonia nitrogen, up to 95% of urea, and scale-forming ions from the wastewater before reverse osmosis (RO) filtration. It can produce up to 20,000 m 3 of recycled water per day, and the water quality meets the stringent requirements of the semiconductor industry.

ITRI integrates BioNET and fluidized bed crystallization (FBC) technologies to treat wastewater discharge from semiconductor plants. The treatment process can remove over 90% of ammonia nitrogen, up to 95% of urea, and scale-forming ions from the wastewater before reverse osmosis (RO) filtration. It can produce up to 20,000 m of recycled water per day, and the water quality meets the stringent requirements of the semiconductor industry. Net-zero Financing Mechanism is Taiwan's first funding mechanism that enables small and medium-sized enterprises and startups to speed up their net-zero technologies. This initiative has received support from 40 major financial institutions to participate in Taiwan .

About ITRI

Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) is one of the world's leading technology R&D institutions aiming to innovate a better future for society. Founded in 1973, ITRI has played a vital role in transforming Taiwan's industries from labor-intensive into innovation-driven. To address market needs and global trends, it has launched its 2030 Technology Strategy & Roadmap and focuses on innovation development in Smart Living, Quality Health, and Sustainable Environment. It also strives to strengthen Intelligentization Enabling Technology to support diversified applications.

Over the years, ITRI has been dedicated to incubating startups and spinoffs, including well-known names such as UMC and TSMC. In addition to its headquarters in Taiwan , ITRI has branch offices in the U.S. , Europe , and Japan in an effort to extend its R&D scope and promote international cooperation across the globe. For more information, please visit https://www.itri.org/eng.

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SOURCE Industrial Technology Research Institute
Beginning in 2024, the project is an important milestone for the widespread adoption of ammonia as fuel in the maritime industry

BROOKLYN, N.Y. and SINGAPORE , April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Amogy Inc ., a pioneer of emission-free, energy-dense ammonia power solutions, and SGX-listed Marco Polo Marine Ltd., a regional integrated marine logistics company actively involved in the offshore wind sector, entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Under the terms of their MoU, Amogy's proprietary ammonia-to-power system would also be installed on Marco Polo Marine's existing or newly built wind vessels, allowing them to operate with zero emissions.

Amogy and Marco Polo Marine Unveil Collaboration to Develop Zero-Emission Solution for Offshore Wind Fleet

The collaboration dovetails with Marco Polo Marine's efforts to decarbonize the shipping sector and reduce the carbon footprint of offshore wind farms through the adoption of more sustainable and green practices. The partnership will also allow Amogy to fine-tune its ammonia-to-power solution in order to more effectively support the specific types of wind vessels (including, but not limited to, CSOVs and SOVs).

It is thus an excellent opportunity for both parties to work together to ensure optimal performance, best practices, and successful execution, and to promote sustainability and carbon neutrality initiatives across the maritime and offshore wind industries.

According to a report by the US Department of Energy, global offshore wind energy is a rapidly growing industry and is expected to increase by about five times in size by 2030. By end-2022, Asia is expected to have overtaken Europe as the world's largest regional offshore wind market by cumulative installations. The region's offshore wind capacity is forecast to expand at an annual average rate of 15.3% from 27GW at end-2021 to 109GW in 2031. Wind vessels like CSOVs and SOVs etc. are important support vessels in the offshore wind industry, and the adoption of ammonia power would see a significant decrease in carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions from such vessels.

"We're delighted to work with a respected and innovative maritime operator that shares our bold vision for a greener and more sustainable future," said Seonghoon Woo , CEO of Amogy. "The APAC region's commitment to clean fuels makes it important that we have an impact here and we hope that our partnership with Marco Polo can serve as a powerful example for other maritime operators."

The Maritime & Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and the Singapore Energy Market Authority (EMA) recently launched an Expression of Interest (EOI) process to build, own and operate low or zero-carbon power generation and bunkering projects on Jurong Island , noting that they saw ammonia power as a "promising pathway" to decarbonization.

"We welcome the opportunity to collaborate with Amogy and combine our environmentally friendly and innovative technologies. We think that Amogy's ability to convert ammonia to gaseous hydrogen in our wind vessels is a step in the right direction that brings us closer to our long-term goal of decarbonizing the maritime industry by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, it will help speed up the global transition towards clean energy sources," said Sean Lee , CEO of Marco Polo Marine.

Recently, Marco Polo Marine has stepped up its push into the offshore wind industry, following its successful acquisition of PKR Offshore, an established Taiwan -based wind vessel operator, in May 2022 . The Group also commissioned the development of a new state-of-the-art CSOV at their Batam shipyard in September 2022 to boost service offerings in support of the offshore wind farm sector. Leveraging on its offshore wind track record in Taiwan , the Group has been supporting the development of offshore wind farms in Japan , South Korea and the wider Asia-Pacific region . It continues to actively identify suitable partners in new markets to expand its reach.

The MoU announcement comes after the news of Amogy's recent $139 million B-1 raise . The round will enable Amogy to continue its organizational development to support commercialization, begin manufacturing its innovative ammonia-to-power technology, and bring its first product to market in 2024.

This all also comes after Amogy announced it is building a zero-emission ammonia-powered vessel with the intention of sailing the vessel in late 2023. Ammonia is predicted to become the leading fuel source for the world's giant cargo ships by 2050.

To learn more about Amogy and its technology, please visit www.amogy.co .

About Amogy

Amogy offers ammonia-based, emission-free, high energy-density power solutions to decarbonize transportation for a sustainable future. Founded in 2020 by four MIT PhD alumni with a shared vision, Amogy aims to enable the decarbonization of the heavy-duty transportation sector, accelerating the global journey towards Net Zero 2050. The company's investors include Amazon's Climate Pledge Fund, AP Ventures, SK, Saudi Aramco and DCVC. To date, Amogy's scalable ammonia-powered, zero-emissions energy system has been demonstrated with success in a drone, heavy-duty tractor, and semi truck.

About Marco Polo Marine Ltd.

Listed on the Mainboard of the SGX-ST since 2007, Marco Polo Marine Ltd is a reputable regional integrated marine logistics company which principally engages in shipping and shipyard operations.

The Group's shipping business relates to the chartering of Offshore Supply Vessels ("OSVs") for deployment in the regional waters, including the Gulf of Thailand , Malaysia , Indonesia and Taiwan , as well as the chartering of tug boats and barges to customers, especially those which are engaged in the mining, commodities, construction, infrastructure and land reclamation industries.

Under its chartering operations, the Group has diversified its activities beyond the oil and gas industry to include the support of the construction of offshore wind farm projects. The burgeoning offshore wind energy industry in Asia is at a nascent stage where structures are in the process of being installed, which presents tremendous opportunities for the Group whose fleet is able to support the development of these projects.

The Group's shipyard business relates to ship building as well as the provision of ship maintenance, repair, outfitting and conversion services, which are carried out through its shipyard located in Batam, Indonesia . Occupying a total land area of approximately 34 hectares with a seafront of approximately 650 meters, the modern shipyard also houses three dry docks, which have boosted the Group's technical capabilities and service offerings to undertake projects involving mid-sized and sophisticated vessels.

For more information on Marco Polo Marine Ltd, please visit www.marcopolomarine.com.sg

Media inquiries for Amogy:

[email protected]

For Marco Polo Marine Ltd Media

and Investor Relations:

Emily Choo

+65 9734 6565

[email protected]

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/amogy-and-marco-polo-marine-unveil-collaboration-to-develop-zero-emission-solution-for-marco-polo-marines-offshore-wind-fleet-301799291.html

SOURCE Amogy
Herman Miller unveils a specially curated exhibit and limited-edition poster reprint celebrating its rich graphic design history in its Milan showroom in the Brera Design District during Salone del Mobile

MILAN, Italy , April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- To launch the celebration of the 100th anniversary of its brand name, Herman Miller has taken a deep dive into its rich archive of graphic design to bring its story of design authorship and cultural influence to life. Throughout its history, Herman Miller has worked with many graphic designers and artists who came to define the look and feel of their respective eras. This visual journeywhich begins in Milan and will travel to Chicago for MillerKnoll Design Days in Junecelebrates their work, and the boldness, rigor, and joy innate to the brand.

Starting in the early modern era with the hiring of Gilbert Rohde in 1930 as Herman Miller's first design director, founder D.J. De Pree made a pivotal step in transitioning the company from traditional to modern design. Rohde's architectural training and Bauhaus education brought a new rigor to Herman Miller's traditional furniture, while his wife Peggy Rohde designed marketing materials that depicted and highlighted the new direction.

Joining Herman Miller in 1945, outsize personality George Nelson cemented both storytelling and design partnershipswith the Eames Office, Alexander Girard , and othersas essential parts of the Herman Miller brand. Under Nelson's design direction, graphic pioneers like Irving Harper (responsible for the "free" M in Herman Miller's logo to this day) and Tomiko Miho flourished.

Coinciding with the Pop Art movement of the 1960s and the artistic liberation of the 1970s, a shared spirit of idealism and playfulness carried through from the Swiss-influenced, Helvetica-heavy tenure of designer John Massey to his protege, Steve Frykholm , whose exuberant Summer Picnic series came to typify the company's graphic identity throughout the 1970s.

In the 1980s and '90s, Barbara Loveland and Linda Powell steered the company through a postmodern period of design leadership. And as Herman Miller increased its international footprint, its graphics reached every corner of the globe, from traveling exhibitions to a system of illustration depicting a new theory on harmonious workplace environments called Living Office.

Finally, one cannot discuss graphics at Herman Miller without Alexander Girard , founding director of the company's textile division. Throughout his career, Girard used graphics to create motifs with meaning, and his pattern language would reach its apex in the early 1970s with a series of Environmental Enrichment Panelsa selection of which will be on display in the Milan showroom exhibition.

During Salone, Herman Miller is making available for sale limited-edition prints of the John Massey-designed Eames Soft Pad Group poster. Originally produced in 1970, this piece is representative of the sharply defined style Massey brought to Herman Miller's communications. Printed at the original 32" x 48" (91.44 x 121.92 cm) size, the prints are hand numbered in an edition of 500. The print embodies this statement from Massey: "I always tried to build into each piece a life beyond the purpose for which it was created."

To commemorate the brand's centenary, Phaidon is also releasing a special edition of its bestselling monograph Herman Miller: A Way of Living. With a new clothbound cover and updated timeline, this unmatched collection of brand stories, historical artifacts, documents, and photographs provides an expanded view of Herman Miller's history.

To see the exhibition in person during Salone, visit the Herman Miller showroom in Milan at Corso Giuseppe Garibaldi 70 in the Brera Design District from Tuesday, April 18 to Saturday, April 22 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. To purchase a copy of the special edition of Herman Miller: A Way of Living, visit a Herman Miller retail location or the Herman Miller online store.

About Herman Miller

Over the last century, Herman Miller has been guided by a commitment to problem-solving designs that inspire the best in people. Along the way, Herman Miller has forged critical relationships with the most visionary designers of the day, from mid-century greats like George Nelson , the Eames Office, and Isamu Noguchi , to research-oriented visionaries like Robert Propst and Bill Stumpfand with today's groundbreaking studios like Industrial Facility and Studio 7.5. From the birth of ergonomic furniture to manufacturing some of the twentieth century's most iconic pieces, Herman Miller has pioneered original, timeless design that makes an enduring impact, while building a lasting legacy of design, innovation, and social good. Herman Miller is a part of MillerKnoll, a collective of dynamic brands that comes together to design the world we live in. For more information, visit hermanmiller.com/about.

Resources

Herman Miller's Milan showroom photos, credit Jens Passoth .

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/celebrating-100-years-of-herman-miller-301799428.html

SOURCE Herman Miller
SYDNEY and GEORGE TOWN, Cayman Islands , April 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Channel Capital Cayman a company within the Channel Capital Group, today announced the expansion of its Cayman Islands team with the appointment of Martin Laufer as Fund Director.

Channel Capital Cayman provides a high quality governance service to investment funds domiciled primarily in the United States , Cayman Islands and other offshore financial centres. The business was established to leverage the deep and specialised experience of its team, and to assist with ongoing compliance with regulatory obligations through a trusted and highly personalised independent director service.

As an experienced independent director, Martin has been providing fund governance and related services to a variety of offshore investment funds since 2017. Prior to joining Channel Capital Cayman, Martin worked for the Maples Group where he served as an independent director covering a wide range of hedge fund, private equity and infrastructure strategies. From the period 2010 to 2017, Martin was a Fiduciary Fund Manager at BNY Mellon Fund Management (Cayman) Limited where he provided fiduciary and administration services to a large portfolio of Cayman unit trusts, hedge funds and funds of funds, and spent time as a senior client accountant at CIBC Bank and Trust Company (Cayman) Limited. Before moving to the Cayman Islands in 2007, Martin worked as a senior tax consultant at KPMG Argentina. Martin is a certified public accountant, a CFA charterholder and a Certified ESG Analyst (CESGA).

The Cayman Islands is a world leader in the establishment of offshore funds due to its tax-neutrality, stable economy, sophisticated banking sector and professional financial service industry. Approximately 70% of non-US domiciled alternative investment funds managed by US SEC-registered advisors are domiciled in the Cayman Islands .

"We are excited to have Martin join the business," said Mark Cook , Executive Director, Channel Capital Cayman.

"Martin's experience has given him valuable insights into the fund governance space, compliance issues and new trends such as ESG investing that are critical to managing offshore investment vehicles in a responsible manner. He will add depth to our governance platform and will work closely with our clients to help them navigate the ever-changing and complex investment and regulatory environment."

Fund Director at Channel Capital Cayman, Martin Laufer , said: "I am very pleased to be joining Mark and the rest of the Channel Capital Cayman team. It's critical to stay up to date with regulatory changes and emerging industry trends and I look forward to providing our clients with the guidance and support they need to manage and oversee their fund investments effectively."

About Channel Capital Cayman

Channel Capital Cayman is an independent directorship service provider to global hedge and private equity funds and investment vehicles primarily domiciled in the Cayman Islands . This expertise helps to strengthen governance by striking the right balance between investors, fund sponsors and other stakeholders. Our services are tailored to the needs of each board, and we provide oversight and related support services to help boards become more effective.

Our team of directors offers a comprehensive and objective service that covers the entire life cycle of a fund, from pre-launch to maturity. We provide an independent, experienced perspective to boards, offering strategic guidance while ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including anti-money laundering, tax transparency and other governance complexities.

Channel Capital Cayman is part of the Channel Capital Group  a multi-partner asset management business with staff across six global locations and US$23 billion of client assets serviced as of March 31, 2023 .

https://www.channelcapital.ky

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SOURCE Channel Capital Cayman
Sponsorship leverages BioLabs' coworking lab and office facilities to empower science and innovation in rare diseases, pulmonary diseases and specialty care.

BOSTON , April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Chiesi Global Rare Diseases, a business unit of the Chiesi Group established to deliver innovative therapies and solutions for people affected by rare diseases, today announced a U.S. Networkwide Sponsorship of BioInnovation Labs (BioLabs), the leading developer and operator of life science coworking spaces with 12 active facilities and a growing network in the U.S. and internationally.

Chiesi recently created a Strategic Innovation Unit to scout and evaluate innovative therapeutic modalities emerging from academic and research institutes, as well as from start-up and early-stage biotech organizations, that may provide long-term solutions for patients with rare diseases.

"As a family business, and as a certified Benefit Corporation, we have a long history of commitment to the rare disease community and will continue to reinvest in scientific research and innovation," said Giacomo Chiesi , head of Chiesi Global Rare Diseases. "With our global rare diseases division headquartered in the research hub of Boston , we are in an ideal location to serve as a preferred partner for early-stage companies in this region and beyond, particularly to those that are investigating new modalities. We are glad to establish this important sponsorship of BioLabs, with locations not only in the Boston area, but many other growing ecosystems, as we aim to identify and advance the development of new medicines."

U.S. Networkwide Sponsorship of BioLabs will allow Chiesi to have access to sponsored sites across the country. This gives Chiesi the opportunity to host office hours, workshops, and other onsite events for companies residing in their spaces, and to broadly engage with innovators in the life sciences sector. Chiesi will also be able to award two Golden Tickets per year, which are vouchers representing coworking lab and office use privileges for BioLabs locations that can be transferred to already residing startups or to startups that relocate to BioLabs sites.

"Our mission is to foster innovation and empower entrepreneurship by providing early-stage companies access to a powerful network of partners and mentors, and best-in-class lab space and essential lab services," said Veena Krishnappa , Senior Director of Pharma Partnerships + Business Insights for BioLabs. "Our residents' success relies on the support of global organizations like Chiesi, with their commitment to the principles of science and entrepreneurship, and their focus on nurturing a robust pipeline of groundbreaking scientific research. We look forward to making a significant impact together by supporting innovation in the sector."

About BioLabs

BioLabs is the definitive growth partner for science-based entrepreneurs, empowering companies to accelerate their science, grow their business, and have a lasting impact on the world. The BioLabs difference is in their sector-defining ecosystem: delivering best-in-class lab space, essential business services, a powerful network of innovators and guides who offer "been-there" insight, and site teams with unparalleled experience guiding founders through the operational complexities of growing a biotech company. BioLabs centers are in key innovation hubs across North America with additional sites in Paris and Saclay, France , Heidelberg, Germany and Kawasaki, Japan . Follow BioLabs on Twitter (@BioLabs) and on LinkedIn.

About Chiesi Global Rare Diseases

Chiesi Global Rare Diseases is a business unit of the Chiesi Group established to deliver innovative therapies and solutions for people affected by rare diseases. As a family business, Chiesi Group strives to create a world where it is common to have a therapy for all diseases and acts as a force for good, for society and the planet. The goal of the Global Rare Diseases unit is to ensure equal access so as many people as possible can experience their most fulfilling life. The unit collaborates with the rare disease community around the globe to bring voice to underserved people in the health care system. For more information visit www.chiesirarediseases.com.

About Chiesi Group

Chiesi is an international, research-focused biopharmaceuticals group that develops and markets innovative therapeutic solutions in respiratory health, rare diseases, and specialty care. The company's mission is to improve people's quality of life and act responsibly towards both the community and the environment.

By changing its legal status to a Benefit Corporation in Italy , the US, and France , Chiesi's commitment to create shared value for society as a whole is legally binding and central to company-wide decision-making. As a certified B Corp since 2019, we're part of a global community of businesses that meet high standards of social and environmental impact. The company aims at becoming net-zero by 2035.

With over 85 years of experience, Chiesi is headquartered in Parma (Italy ), operates in 30 countries, and counts more than 6,000 employees. The Group's research and development centre in Parma works alongside 6 other important R&D hubs in France , the US, Canada , China , the UK , and Sweden .

For further information please visit www.chiesi.com

Media Contact

Adam Daley

Berry & Company Public Relations

1-212-253-8881

[email protected]

PP-G-1156 V1.0

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SOURCE Chiesi Global Rare Diseases
Lynnette Williams holds a sign during a gathering at Second Baptist Church in Akron, Ohio, calling for justice for Jayland Walker, on July 2, 2022.

An Ohio grand jury declined to indict eight police officers who fired dozens of rounds in the shooting death last year of Jayland Walker, a 25-year-old Black man, the states attorney general announced Monday, saying the officers were under threat because Walker had fired a gunshot at them during a car and foot chase.

Walkers death last June sparked protests in Akron after police released body camera footage showing him dying in a hail of gunfire. Police said he had refused to stop when they tried to pull him over for minor equipment and traffic violations, though they havent specified further. Police say Walker fired a shot from his car 40 seconds into the pursuit.

Walkers death received widespread attention from activists, including from the family of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. The NAACP and an attorney for Walkers family called on the Justice Department to open a federal civil rights investigation.

President Joe Biden responded to the shooting during a trip to Ohio last summer by saying the DOJ was monitoring the case.

Officers chased the car on a freeway and city streets until Walker bailed from the still-moving vehicle, ignored officers commands and ran into a parking lot where he was killed while wearing a ski mask, body cam video showed. Authorities said he represented a deadly threat. A handgun, a loaded magazine and a wedding ring were found on the drivers seat of his car.

Walker took at least one shot from his vehicle at police and then after jumping out of his car he ignored commands to stop and show his hands, Yost said. There is no doubt he did in fact shoot at police officers, Yost said.

Walker reached for his waistband as officers were chasing and raised his hand, Yost said. The officers, not knowing he left his gun in the car, believed he was firing again at them, Yost said.

Yost said it is critical to remember that Walker had fired at police, and that he shot first.

Dash-cam video from a police cruiser captured images of Walker firing the gun from his car, said Anthony Pierson, an assistant state attorney general. Walker had no criminal history and had never fired a gun until he went to a shooting range with a friend in early June, Pierson said.

Pierson wouldnt speculate about Walkers state of mind that night and said there was no direct evidence that he was suicidal. That night he encountered the police he wasnt acting himself, Pierson said. By all accounts he was a good person, a good man.

Walkers family called it a brutal and senseless shooting of a man who was unarmed at the time and whose fiancee recently died. Police union officials said the officers thought there was an immediate threat of serious harm and that their actions were in line with their training and protocols.

Walker had been grieving his fiancees recent death but his family had no indication of concern beyond that, a family representative previously said.

The blurry body camera footage did not clearly show what authorities say was a threatening gesture Walker made before he was shot. Police chased him for about 10 seconds before officers fired from multiple directions, a burst of shots that lasts 6 or 7 seconds.

The eight officers, whose names have been withheld from the public, initially were placed on leave, but they returned to administrative duties 3 1/2 months after the shooting.

A county medical examiner said Walker was shot at least 40 times. The autopsy also said no illegal drugs or alcohol were detected in his body.

After taking over the investigation last summer at the request of Akron police, prosecutors with the Ohio attorney generals office presented the case to the grand jury.

City leaders have been meeting with community leaders, church groups, activists and business owners ahead of the grand jury meeting while also preparing for potential protests.

The city created a designated protest zone downtown outside the city hall building, where workers put plywood over the first-floor windows. Theres also temporary fencing around the county courthouse.

Less than 24 hours before the chase, police in neighboring New Franklin Township had tried to stop a car matching Walkers, also for unspecified minor equipment violations. A supervisor there called off the pursuit when the car crossed the townships border with Akron.

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TORRANCE, Calif. , April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Criminal IP, an OSINT-based search engine, officially launched its service on April 17 after a year of solid beta service. In cybersecurity, OSINT detects sensitive information such as personal data, national security, and confidential corporate data, in addition to predicting potential security threats known as 'Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI)'.

Using AI technology, Criminal IP collects and analyzes IP addresses from around the world on a daily basis, enabling the detection of cyber threats. Users can choose from four search options (Asset, Domain, Image, Exploit) and efficiently retrieve desired information from large data sets using filters and tags.

Criminal IP operated on a beta service for about one year before its official service launched on April 17, 2023 . Providing the service in English, Japanese, and Korean, Criminal IP has gained global notoriety in cybersecurity, with 2 million visitors from over 200 countries during its beta phase.

The official service of Criminal IP is offered with three main plans: Lite (for individual users), Medium (for small-sized enterprises), and Pro (for medium-sized enterprises). These subscription plans can be paid for online using credit cards or PayPal. Additionally, there is the option to request a customized Enterprise plan with unlimited data access for large-sized enterprises and an Academic plan available at a discounted rate for academic institutions and research purposes. Moreover, Criminal IP offers a Free Membership plan that provides free credits every month upon sign-up. Overall, Criminal IP's reasonably priced plans are tailored for various uses and provide flexibility and convenience to its users.

In the cybersecurity industry, Criminal IP has gained recognition for its innovative technology from various global IT communities and platforms such as GitHub, Reddit, LinkedIn, and other forums. As a result, current users have expressed their excitement and high expectations for the official release of Criminal IP's service. Furthermore, the platform's reliability of technology and data has been further validated by integrating with VirusTotal, Splunk, IP Location, Zabbix, and many more. Criminal IP has plans to expand and improve its features in the near future.

If you plan to attend RSAC in San Francisco from April 24 , don't miss the chance to meet the Criminal IP team at booth S-634 and experience their service firsthand. Additionally, AI Spera will showcase Criminal IP ASM (Attack Surface Management), an automated SaaS solution that identifies, detects, and monitors all Internet-connected assets while assessing their vulnerabilities. You can contact AI Spera to apply for a free demo or to request a meeting during the exhibition.

About AI Spera

AI Spera provides an OSINT-based CTI from a hacker's perspective by developing the latest AI-driven security technologies. AI Spera defends against ever-evolving cyber threats, spanning education and research, corporate security teams, white hackers, national agencies, and cybercrime investigation organizations.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/criminal-ips-official-service-released-a-cybersecurity-osint-search-engine-301799947.html

SOURCE AI Spera Inc.
Company to Also Host an Investor Day on Tuesday, May 23

WASHINGTON , April 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Evolent Health, Inc. (NYSE: EVH), a health care company that delivers proven specialty clinical solutions to payers and providers, today announced it will release its first quarter 2023 financial results on Wednesday, May 3, 2023 , after market close, with a conference call to follow at 5 p.m. ET .

Shareholders and interested participants may listen to a live broadcast of the conference call by dialing 855.940.9467 or 412.317.6034 for international callers and referencing the "Evolent Health call" 15 minutes prior to the call. An audio playback of the conference call will be available on Evolent's investor relations website, ir.evolenthealth.com, for 90 days after the call.

Investor Day

In addition, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder Seth Blackley and Evolent's executive team will host an Investor Day for the financial community via webcast and in person in Arlington, Va. on Tuesday, May 23, 2023 .

The event will feature presentations from Evolent's executive leadership team on the company's long-term corporate strategy, innovative value-based care solutions, and financial outlook. Management will also host a Q&A session with attendees.

A live audio and visual webcast of this event, along with supporting materials, will be available the day of the event on Evolent's investor relations website at ir.evolenthealth.com/. A replay, presentations and transcript will also be available after the event. An audio playback of the event will be available on Evolent's investor relations website, ir.evolenthealth.com, for 90 days after the call.

The event will be held at the Westin in Arlington Tuesday, May 23, 2023 , at 10 a.m. ET and is anticipated to end at approximately 1 p.m. ET .

About Evolent Health

Evolent Health delivers proven solutions that improve outcomes while making health care simpler and more affordable. We specialize in better health outcomes for people with complex conditions. Evolent serves a national base of leading payers and providers and is consistently recognized as a top place to work in health care nationally. Learn more about how Evolent is changing the way health care is delivered by visiting evolenthealth.com.

Contacts:

Seth R. Frank

Vice President, Investor Relations

Evolent Health, Inc.

[email protected]

571-895-3919 (W)

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SOURCE Evolent Health
GULFPORT, Miss. , April 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Siri & Glimstad LLP announces a ruling from the bench following an evidentiary hearing, wherein a federal court has ruled that the First Amendment requires that the State of Mississippi afford its residents a religious exemption for their children to attend school without one or more state mandated vaccines by July 15, 2023 .

A written entry on the Court's docket was issued shortly after the hearing providing, in relevant part:

Minute Entry for proceedings before District Judge Halil S. Ozerden : Hearing on Plaintiffs' Motion for Preliminary Injunction held on 4/17/2023. Court heard testimony and additional argument. For the reasons stated on the record, and to be more fully detailed in a written order to follow, the Court will grant Plaintiffs' Motion. From and after July 15, 2023 , Defendants Daniel P. Edney , in his official capacity as the State Health Officer  their officers, agents, servants, and employees, and anyone acting in active concert or participation with them will be enjoined from enforcing Mississippi Code  41-23-37 [ Mississippi's compulsory school vaccination law] unless they provide an option for individuals to request a religious exemption from the vaccine requirement.

Mississippi is one of only six states that does not have a religious exemption for students to attend school. Numerous parents have sincerely held religious beliefs that do not permit vaccinating their children, including because of the involvement and development of vaccines using the products of abortions and aborted fetal cell lines. Those parents were put in an impossible position by being forced to violate their sincere religious beliefs in order to send their children to school.

The refusal to recognize religious exemptions has needlessly harmed these children by forcing their parents to homeschool or move out of the State, often directly across the border to attend school in a neighboring state while still otherwise effectively living their lives in Mississippi .

The State of Mississippi affords a secular exemption to those with medical reasons reflecting that it can accommodate students that are unvaccinated. It has simply chosen to not accord an exemption when it is someone's immortal soul that a parent believes would be at risk. Plaintiffs are incredibly heartened that a federal court agreed that the State cannot afford a secular exemption without affording a religious exemption and that doing so violated the First Amendment.

The six plaintiffs in the case include parents from across the State including a pastor who had to exclude his own daughter from his own private Christian school because he could not accord his own religious convictions to let her attend.

Judge Ozerden issued a thoughtful tentative ruling from the bench, recognizing the importance and the magnitude of the infringement of religious freedom in the state, and will issue a written order to follow.

We look forward to cooperating with the Department of Health in creating a process for religious exemptions.

Litigation funding for this lawsuit has been provided by Informed Consent Action Network.

Counsel for the plaintiffs are Aaron Siri , Elizabeth A. Brehm , Walker Moller , and Catherine Cline of Siri & Glimstad LLP and Chris Wiest , of Chris Wiest , Attorney at Law, PLLC.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/federal-court-restores-religious-exemption-to-state-vaccine-mandate-for-attending-school-in-mississippi-301799557.html

SOURCE Siri & Glimstad LLP
SAN CLEMENTE, Calif. , April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- More than 70 amazing young international educators, therapists, nurses and other care professionals will descend upon San Clemente from all over the USA from May 5 to May 7 to bond, have fun  and learn to surf! These exceptional twenty-something women and men primarily from Germany and Austria are in this country on a special U.S. Department of State J-1 cultural exchange visitor visa to participate in a unique live-in child care solution for families with varying needs.

Apex Social Group , a leader in developmental child care, makes a big splash in San Clement CA!

Referred to as "Apex Care Professionals", they are all here thanks to Apex Social Group, an organization providing developmental live-in childcare and cultural exchange. These young adults hold degrees in fields such as pediatric nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, early childhood development or special needs education from their home country. Because of their education as well as their heart for children of all abilities, many of the host families who choose to host and employ them have a child with special needs.

"We are grateful to have Sophia on our care team and feel like we won the lottery when she moved in with us," said Julia Griffiths who lives in San Francisco ." She has employed her training as an occupational therapist to be an active partner with us in identifying new activities and helping us manage positive behavior changes in both children."

Some of the Apex Care Professionals have never surfed before, so the experience they will have in San Clemente will surely be unforgettable. "I can't wait to come to San Clemente and learn to surf," said Enya Bartsch , an occupational therapist from Germany . After spending a year in New Jersey with an Apex host family, learning to surf is like a dream for her. "I've only been to the Pacific ocean a few times so this will really be amazing for me, and one more thing to cross off my bucket list!"

Apex Social, based in San Clemente , which sponsors and empowers the young professionals is hosting the 14th Annual Apex Social Surf Outing as a thank you and to provide a meaningful and fun experience for the Apex Care Professionals who work so hard all year with their host children.

San Clemente resident, Susan Asay , Founder and CEO of Apex Social said, "Putting together this event for these incredible young professionals is truly a labor of love. I am so grateful and proud of them, that they are getting outside their comfort zone - once again, when I see the joy in their faces, while watching them catch their first wave and experience my beloved San Clemente , which is also my home of choice."

Local surf instructors from JP's San Clemente Surf School will give lessons to the Apex Care Professionals and Pro Surfer Rocky McKinnon of Huntington Beach will provide adaptive surf experience for Apex host children with special needs and different abilities.

Rocky will share his story as pioneer of the first Adaptive Surfing program in Huntington Beach . He continues to push board innovation with the "Chair Board" design, utilized in his Adaptive Surfing Program and other community surfing events. He has partnered with Ride a Wave Foundation, Best Day Foundation, Operation Amped, and many more.

An Apex Social host family from Sherman Oaks was invited to have their daughter Sadie who has Rett Syndrome, a rare genetic condition, participate in a McKinnon Adaptive Surf lesson at a previous Apex Social Surf Outing. "Watching Sadie catch her first wave was unforgettable," said her mom, Stephanie Bohn . "It was a powerful reminder to us that Sadie loves adventure and we should never let her disability get in the way of trying new things. We were grateful to Apex for partnering with us to find amazing Apex Care Professionals for Sadie and for inviting Sadie to be a part of this special experience and cannot wait to try it again this spring."

It is a special honor, Asay said, to welcome for the first time, representatives from the US Department of State and from the Apex Social partners in Germany , including The Ludewig Fresenius Schulen, IU International University, Hamburg ; the Dean of University of Applied Science for Healthcare and Social Science, Zwickau ; and the Nursing Manager Association of Germany.

"This German-American exchange brings people together from different backgrounds to learn from each other, and is a great way to contribute to the exchange of knowledge for healthcare and education professionals," said Asay.

According to Sarah Kodinsky , Executive Vice President at Apex Social, "The excitement for the event this year is palpable. This is the first year we are bringing back the event full-scale since Covid, and we are all so happy and grateful to be able to positively influence so many lives  the lives of the families we serve, and the young Apex Care Professionals who make such a big difference in their lives."

About Apex Social

Founded in 2008, Apex Social Group is the leading Child Care Provider for families with children of all abilities and all ages - from newborns to young adults. Apex Social is particularly situated to assist families with children who have special needs as our Apex Care Professionals - both from the United States and abroad - have specialized training in fields which include nursing, occupational and physical therapy, and speech therapy. Apex Social offers a boutique-style service experience that reaches beyond the traditional nanny agency service.

To learn more about Apex Social Group, visit apex-social.com and follow Apex Social on Facebook , Instagram and LinkedIn .

Media Contact

Spring Mingey

[email protected]

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/fun-in-the-sun-as-apex-social-group-arrives-in-san-clemente-ca-learning-to-surf-and-doing-good-301801042.html

SOURCE Apex Social Group
VANCOUVER, BC , April 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Hapbee Technologies, Inc. (TSXV: HAPB) (OTCQB: HAPBF) (FSE: HA1) ("Hapbee" or the "Company") wishes to advise that there may be a delay in the filing of its Audited Financial Statements and its related Management's Discussion and Analysis, and Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer Certifications (collectively, the "Required Disclosure"), which is due to be filed on or before May 1, 2023 (the "Filing Deadline") pursuant to applicable securities laws. This delay is due to the fact that Hapbee's auditors are still completing the required work to conclude the audit.

Hapbee has applied for a voluntary Management Cease Trade Order under National Policy 12-203 (the "Policy") pending the filing of the Required Disclosure via SEDAR. Hapbee is confident that the Required Disclosure will be filed by no later than June 30, 2023 . The Management Cease Trade Order is expected to be imposed against its chief executive officer, its chief financial officer, and potentially certain members of its Board of Directors, instead of a cease trade order being imposed against all securities of Hapbee. Such an order will not generally affect the ability of other persons to trade the securities of Hapbee pending the filing of the Required Disclosure via SEDAR.

Hapbee intends to comply with the provisions of the Alternative Information Guidelines as set out in the Policy for as long as it remains in default, including the issuance of bi-weekly default status reports, if necessary, each of which will be issued in the form of a press release.

Hapbee is not subject to any insolvency proceeding and there is no other material information concerning the affairs of Hapbee that has not been generally disclosed.

About Hapbee Technologies, Inc.

Hapbee is a digital wellness technology company that aims to help people take control of how they sleep, perform and feel. Hapbee's digital wellness library of Wellness Routines utilizes patented ultra-low radio frequency energy (ulRFE), designed to help optimize users' sleep, productivity and focus, recovery, and downtime. Hapbee devices and subscriptions are available for purchase at Hapbee.com and through a growing network of select distributors.

You can learn more about how Hapbee works at www.hapbee.com/science

Forward-Looking Statement

Certain statements included in this news release constitute forward-looking information or statements (collectively, "forward-looking statements"), including those identified by the expressions "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "estimate", "expect", "intend", "may", "should" and similar expressions to the extent they relate to the Company or its management. The forward-looking statements are not historical facts but reflect current expectations regarding future results or events. This news release contains forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and various estimates, factors and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors. Any statements pertaining to the anticipated filing date for the Filings, as well as statements pertaining the expected timeline for the halt to be lifted are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions which are difficult to predict. Such statements and information are based on numerous assumptions regarding the Company's ability and intended timing to complete its Filings. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement, and are subject to various risks, uncertainties and assumptions which include, but are not limited to, those described in Hapbee's annual information form dated May 2, 2022 , as well as those described in Hapbee's other disclosure documents, copies of which are available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com, and could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in any forward-looking statements. These statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results. Such statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those implied by such statements. The Company assumes no responsibility to update or revise forward-looking information to reflect new events or circumstances unless required by law. Readers should not place undue reliance on the Company's forward-looking statements. Neither 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.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hapbee-indicates-delay-in-filing-of-its-audited-financial-statements-and-applies-for-voluntary-management-cease-trade-301799468.html

SOURCE Hapbee Technologies Inc.
HANGZHOU, China , April 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Hikvision enhances ColorVu, its high quality full-color technology, with Super Confocal and Smart Hybrid Light technologies. With these enhanced ColorVu offerings, even sharper imaging is made possible, with precise focusing in ultra-low light and flexible "hybrid" lighting modes to fit the scenario.

"By upgrading ColorVu technology, we aim to elevate our customers' night vision experience in any setting with always-sharply-focused imaging and versatile lighting options," says Rubio Hong , the Product Director at Hikvision, "We are very proud of our ultra-low-light technology, which eliminates the headache of darkness and unclear footage."

Improved low-light imaging performance with the Super Confocal Technology

Hikvision's industry-leading ColorVu technology provides full-color footage 24 hours a day, so users see the same sharply rendered images at night as they would see in broad daylight. Now boosted by Super Confocal Technology, ColorVu's performance in low lighting gets even more stable and precise.

As infrared light focuses differently than visible light, it's very difficult for dual-light cameras to create sharp images in low light. Given that cameras with ColorVu are equipped with large-aperture, high-resolution lenses, the focus depth is too small for the frame, which makes infrared imaging even more difficult.

But now, to solve this problem, Hikvision has infused Super Confocal Technology. This is a high-caliber-lens design which reduces optical light dispersion to ensure that the point of focus on the sensor for the infrared light is virtually the same as that of the visible light (thus, "con"-focal). Focusing both types of light at the same spot helps prevent blur and improves the user's viewing experience by rendering clear, vivid images both in color and black-white. Achieving confocal imaging with F1.0 super aperture is also an industry-first.

Flexible lighting options with the Smart Hybrid Light technology

Hikvision's Smart Hybrid Light technology can automatically switch from IR light to visible white (supplemental) lighting at night. Equipped with this technology, cameras offer three supplemental lighting options to suit a user's unique nighttime scenario, depending on the need. The white or visible light mode establishes color imaging; the IR mode (invisible to humans) enables continual black-and-white imaging at night with no light pollution; and the "smart" mode enables the light to automatically change between the two modes based on perimeter events.

With the smart mode turned on, the camera maintains infrared illumination at night until an event triggers color imaging to capture critical details. This means that once human or vehicle motion is detected by the camera, it switches to regular lights and turns to full color. This helps in two critical ways: first, the camera's color imaging captures better footage which can be used to identify the intruder. Secondly, the triggered light acts as a deterrent to would-be trespassers who might potentially get startled and flee the scene.

Great potential for use in both indoor and outdoor applications

Recording "no action" footage at night or in poorly lit areas with infrared mode, the cameras' location won't be given away, and the chance of a camera being seen and vandalized by intruders is vastly reduced. On the other hand, a bright light triggered by a security event and flooding the area helps deter intruders while recording with the same vibrant, colorful images as in daylight.

Therefore, cameras with ColorVu are ideal for both indoor and outdoor scenarios, such as warehouses, retail stores, public parks, and residential settings, where little or no movement is expected at night but discretion is desired for security cameras. Smart, automated lighting options combined with extremely accurate and sharply-focused details creates a camera that truly goes above and beyond current security industry expectations and performance.

Find out more

To discover more key features and capabilities of the ColorVu technology, please visit Hikvision's website: https://www.hikvision.com/en/products/smart-hybrid-light-cameras-with-colorvu

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SOURCE Hikvision Digital Technology
ROCKVILLE, Md. and SUZHOU, China , April 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Innovent Biologics, Inc. ("Innovent") (HKEX: 01801), a world-class biopharmaceutical company that develops, manufactures and commercializes high quality medicines for the treatment of oncology, autoimmune, metabolic, ophthalmology and other major diseases, announced the final analysis results of ORIENT-16, the Phase 3 study evaluating sintilimab in combination with chemotherapy compared to chemotherapy for the first-line treatment of advanced or metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction (G/GEJ) cancer at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting 2023 (Abstract CT078).

As of data cutoff date ( September 2, 2022 ), a total of 650 patients were randomly assigned and received treatment, and the median follow-up was 33.9 months.

Sintilimab in combination with chemotherapy continuously demonstrated superior overall survival (OS) compared to placebo plus chemotherapy with a 41.3% reduction in the risk of death (HR 0.587 [95% CI: 0.467, 0.738]; P

In all randomized patients, the estimated OS rates at 2-year and 3-year for sintilimab plus chemotherapy vs chemotherapy were 37.6% vs 20.6% and 26.0% vs 10.7%, respectively. In patients with CPS5, the estimated OS rates at 2-year and 3-year for sintilimab plus chemotherapy vs chemotherapy were 43.6% vs 22.0% and 29.0% vs 10.7%, respectively. In addition, OS benefits were consistent in all prespecified subgroup analyses.

The safety profile of this final analysis was consistent with that observed in previously reported interim analysis, and no additional safety signals were identified with additional 15-month follow-up.

The principal investigator of the ORIENT-16 study, Prof. Jianming Xu from the Fifth Medical Center of People's Liberation Army General Hospital, stated, "ORIENT-16 is the first phase 3 trial in China to demonstrate a significant overall survival benefit in patients with advanced G/GEJ cancer treated with anti-PD-1 antibody plus chemotherapy in first line setting. Sintilimab has been approved by National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) in China as the first line treatment for patients with advanced G/GEJ adenocarcinoma and this new indication has been included in the updated National Reimbursement Drug List (2022 Version), making it the first and only PD-1 inhibitor for gastric cancer included in the NRDL. This final analysis showed OS benefit of sintilimab plus chemotherapy was more evident in overall population and in patients with CPS 5 compared with that of interim analysis, further confirming sintilimab plus chemotharapy as a standard of care of first line treatment for G/GEJ adenocarcinoma. Gastric cancer is one of the most common malignant tumor types globally and nearly half of all cases are diagnosed in China[i]. Advanced gastric cancer generally has very poor prognosis with high unmet medical need. Approval and inclusion into the updated NRDL of sintilimab plus chemotherapy as first line standard of care for G/GEJ adenocarcinoma has bring an important new treatment option to patients with G/GEJ cancer."

Dr. Zhou Hui , Senior Vice President of Innovent, stated, "The treatment options for advanced G/GEJ cancer are relatively limited and the ORIENT-16 study aimed to address this urgent unmet medical need. Both interim and final analysis results have consistently demonstrated the significant clinical benefit of sintilimab plus chemotherapy as first-line treatment of advanced G/GEJ cancer. And we hope to enhance the accessibility of this novel immunotherapy to benefit a wider group of cancer patients. We are grateful for all the contributions made by every investigator and patient in this study. We are thrilled to share this news with the medical community and look forward to continuing our efforts to bring this innovative treatment option to market and improve outcomes for more patients with gastric cancer. Up until now, sintilimab has demonstrated improved survival in the first-line treatment of five major types of cancer  non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer, squamous non-small cell lung cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, and gastric cancer. Thanks to that, sintilimab has become the only PD-1 inhibitor for the first-line treatment of five high-incidence cancer types in the NRDL."

About the ORIENT-16 Study

ORIENT-16 is a randomized, double-blind, multicenter Phase 3 clinical study evaluating sintilimab in combination with chemotherapy, compared to placebo in combination with chemotherapy, for the first-line treatment of unresectable, locally advanced, recurrent or metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) adenocarcinoma (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03745170). The primary endpoint was overall survival, in all randomized and in PD-L1 positive patients.

About Gastric Cancer

Gastric cancer is one of the most common malignant tumor types worldwide. According to GLOBOCAN estimates, there were approximately one million new cases and 769,000 new deaths of gastric cancer in 2020, making it the fifth most common cancer and third leading cause of cancer death globallyi[ii]. About half of all gastric cancer cases occurred in East Asia , mainly in China i. The first-line treatment of advanced gastric cancer remains limited. Currently, the 5-year survival rate of advanced or metastatic gastric cancer ranges from 5 to 20 percent. The median survival was about 1 year for patients who received chemotherapy only[iii][iv].

About Sintilimab

Sintilimab, marketed as TYVYT (sintilimab injection) in China , is a PD-1 immunoglobulin G4 monoclonal antibody co-developed by Innovent and Eli Lilly and Company. Sintilimab is a type of immunoglobulin G4 monoclonal antibody, which binds to PD-1 molecules on the surface of T-cells, blocks the PD-1 / PD-Ligand 1 (PD-L1) pathway, and reactivates T-cells to kill cancer cells[v]. Innovent is currently conducting more than 20 clinical studies of sintilimab to evaluate its safety and efficacy in a wide variety of cancer indications, including more than 10 registrational or pivotal clinical trials.

In China , sintilimab has been approved and included in the National Reimbursement Drug List (NRDL) for all six indications. The updated NRDL reimbursement scope of TYVYT (sintilimab injection) include:

For the treatment of unresectable locally advanced, recurrent or metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma;

For the treatment of unresectable locally advanced, recurrent or metastatic esophageal squamous cell carcinoma;

For the treatment of unresectable locally advanced or metastatic non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer lacking EGFR or ALK driver gene mutations;

For the treatment of unresectable locally advanced or metastatic squamous non-small cell lung cancer;

For the treatment of unresectable or metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma with no prior systematic treatment;

For the treatment of relapsed or refractory classic Hodgkin's lymphoma after two lines or later of systemic chemotherapy.

Innovent currently has the regulatory submission for sintilimab in combination with bevacizumab biosimilar and chemotherapy for EGFR-TKI failed EGFR-mutated non-squamous NSCLC under review in the China's NMPA.

Additionally, two clinical studies of sintilimab have met their primary endpoints:

Phase 2 study of sintilimab monotherapy as second-line treatment of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma;

Phase 3 study of sintilimab monotherapy as second-line treatment for squamous NSCLC with disease progression following platinum-based chemotherapy.

About Innovent

Inspired by the spirit of "Start with Integrity, Succeed through Action," Innovent's mission is to develop, manufacture and commercialize high-quality biopharmaceutical products that are affordable to ordinary people. Established in 2011, Innovent is committed to developing, manufacturing and commercializing high-quality innovative medicines for the treatment of cancer, autoimmune disease, metabolic disorder and other major diseases. On October 31, 2018 , Innovent was listed on the Main Board of the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited with the stock code: 01801.HK.

Since its inception, Innovent has developed a fully integrated multi-functional platform which includes R&D, CMC (Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls), clinical development and commercialization capabilities. Leveraging the platform, the company has built a robust pipeline of 35 valuable assets in the fields of cancer, metabolic disorder, autoimmune disease and other major therapeutic areas, with 8 approved products on the market. These include: TYVYT (sintilimab injection), BYVASDA (bevacizumab biosimilar injection), SULINNO (adalimumab biosimilar injection), HALPRYZA (rituximab biosimilar injection) , Pemazyre (pemigatinib oral inhibitor), olverembatinib (BCR-ABL TKI) , Cyramza (ramucirumab) and Retsevmo (selpercatinib). An additional 3 assets are under NMPA NDA review, 5 assets are in Phase 3 or pivotal clinical trials, and 19 more molecules are in clinical studies.

Innovent has built an international team with advanced talent in high-end biological drug development and commercialization, including many global experts. The company has also entered into strategic collaborations with Eli Lilly and Company, Sanofi, Adimab, Incyte, MD Anderson Cancer Center and other international partners. Innovent strives to work with many collaborators to help advance China's biopharmaceutical industry, improve drug availability and enhance the quality of the patients' lives. For more information, please visit: www.innoventbio.com. and www.linkedin.com/company/innovent-biologics/.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release may contain certain forward-looking statements that are, by their nature, subject to significant risks and uncertainties. The words "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "intend" and similar expressions, as they relate to Innovent, are intended to identify certain of such forward-looking statements. Innovent does not intend to update these forward-looking statements regularly.

These forward-looking statements are based on the existing beliefs, assumptions, expectations, estimates, projections and understandings of the management of Innovent with respect to future events at the time these statements are made. These statements are not a guarantee of future developments and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond Innovent's control and are difficult to predict. Consequently, actual results may differ materially from information contained in the forward-looking statements as a result of future changes or developments in our business, Innovent's competitive environment and political, economic, legal and social conditions.

Innovent, the Directors and the employees of Innovent assume (a) no obligation to correct or update the forward-looking statements contained in this site; and (b) no liability in the event that any of the forward-looking statements does not materialize or turn out to be incorrect.

[i] Sung H, Ferlay J, Siegel RL, et al. Global Cancer Statistics 2020: GLOBOCAN Estimates of Incidence and Mortality Worldwide for 36 Cancers in 185 Countries. CA Cancer J Clin. 2021; 71(3): 209-249.

[ii] Fuchs CS, Shitara K, Di Bartolomeo M, et al. Ramucirumab with cisplatin and fluoropyrimidine as first-line therapy in patients with metastatic gastric or junctional adenocarcinoma (RAINFALL): a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled, phase 3 trial. Lancet Oncol. 2019; 20(3): 420-435.

[iii] Wang H, Guo W, Hu Y, et al. Superiority of the 8th edition of the TNM staging system for predicting overall survival in gastric cancer: Comparative analysis of the 7th and 8th editions in a monoinstitutional cohort[J]. Molecular and Clinical Oncology, 2018, 9(4): 423-431.

[iv] Price TJ, Shapiro JD, Segelov E, Karapetis CS, Pavlakis N, Van Cutsem E, Shah MA, Kang YK, Tebbutt NC. Management of advanced gastric cancer. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2012 Apr;6(2):199-208; quiz 209. doi: 10.1586/egh.11.103. PMID: 22375525.

[v] Wang J, Fei K, Jing H, et al. Durable blockade of PD-1 signaling links preclinical efficacy of sintilimab to its clinical benefit. mAbs 2019;11(8): 1443-1451.

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SOURCE Innovent Biologics
RESTON, Va. , April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Leidos (NYSE:LDOS), a FORTUNE 500 science and technology leader, was recently awarded a new prime contract to develop an uncrewed aircraft system (UAS) that can autonomously resupply forward-deployed ground forces. The firm-fixed-price, multiple-award contract has a period of performance of 18 months to build a single prototype for the Marine Corps.

"Leidos leads the industry in taking cutting-edge innovations and making them mission-ready today," said Tim Freeman , Leidos senior vice president and Airborne Solutions operations manager. "The ability to autonomously deliver hundreds of pounds of supplies over long ranges will be a game-changer for the warfighter. We look forward to demonstrating how the Leidos' SeaOnyx solution will help deliver a logistics advantage to the Marines and other branches of the military."

Under the contract, Leidos will develop, deliver and demonstrate an autonomous medium unmanned logistics system  air (MULS-A) prototype. The prototype will then be used to perform a logistics distribution mission at the tactical edge of the battlefield. The goal of the project is to demonstrate a prototype UAS that can carry a logistics payload between 300 and 600 pounds to a combat area with a radius of 25 to 100 nautical miles. The work will be performed at locations in Colorado , Ohio , Oregon , California , Nevada and Arizona .

Leidos teamed with Phenix Solutions to design the SeaOnyx prototype. Phenix is a non-traditional, veteran-owned small business defense contractor that develops UAS aircraft for a variety of missions.

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.

Certain statements in this announcement constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the rules and regulations of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). These statements are based on management's current beliefs and expectations and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. These statements are not guarantees of future results or occurrences. A number of factors could cause our actual results, performance, achievements, or industry results to be different from the results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to, the "Risk Factors" set forth in Leidos' Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 30, 2022 , and other such filings that Leidos makes with the SEC from time to time. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. Leidos does not undertake to update forward-looking statements to reflect the impact of circumstances or events that arise after the date the forward-looking statements were made.

NAVAIR Public Release 2023-296 Distribution Statement A  "Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited"

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SOURCE Leidos Holdings, Inc.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. , April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On April 19, 2023 , a public protest is set to take place in Tallahassee against the Florida SB 264/HB 1355, a bill that has caused widespread concern and outrage among Floridians. The bill targets Chinese residents in the state, singling them out for exclusion and depriving them of their property rights.

Representatives of Floridian chambers and business organizations, as well as Florida residents from all walks of life, are expected to participate in the protest. The event is likely to be a significant demonstration of opposition to the bill and a powerful statement against discrimination and xenophobia.

The Florida SB 264/HB 1355 has drawn criticism from a range of groups, including civil rights organizations, business leaders, and political figures. The bill would require Chinese residents in Florida to register with the state government and disclose extensive personal information, including their social media accounts and financial records.

Furthermore, the bill will allow the government to seize property owned by Chinese residents if they fail to comply with the registration requirements or if they are deemed to pose a threat to public safety or national security. Critics argue that this provision is a clear violation of the property rights and due process protections guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution.

The protest is expected to be a peaceful and nonviolent event, with participants calling for the revision of the Florida SB 264/HB 1355 and for the protection of the rights and dignity of all Floridians, regardless of their national origin or ethnicity.

NAEH Media Group, the Florida Chinese media company who owns a printed newspaper "North American Economic Herald" is the major co-host of this event, they can be reach at 305-890-0185 for press release or media coverage.

Media Contact:

Jane Zuo

305-890-0185

[email protected]

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/naeh-media-group-announces-the-coming-public-protest-against-the-florida-sb264hb-1355-on-april-19-2023-301800761.html

SOURCE NAEH Media Group
Reichman Jorgensen Lehman & Feldberg Secures Landmark Ninth Circuit Victory for California Restaurant Association in Battle Over Berkeley's Gas Ban

REDWOOD SHORES, Calif. , April 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Reichman Jorgensen Lehman & Feldberg LLP (RJLF) secured a precedent-setting victory on behalf of the California Restaurant Association (CRA) against the City of Berkeley , overturning Berkeley's ban on natural gas hookups. The Ninth Circuit reversed the District Court's ruling that the City's natural gas ban was consistent with federal law. The panel unanimously held that federal energy law preempts Berkeley's ban on natural gas piping within buildings, and that Berkeley cannot bypass federal preemption by banning the pipes instead of natural gas products themselves.

"We are extremely pleased the Ninth Circuit enforced the plain mandate of federal law on the critical issue of national energy policy," Courtland L. Reichman , RJLF's Managing Partner, said. "At stake was the CRA members' ability to conduct business in the state of California , which puts not only the future of restaurants at risk, but also the vibrant culture and the jobs that those restaurants bring to the area."

Berkeley Ordinance No. 7,672-N.S. banned natural gas infrastructure and the use of natural gas in newly constructed buildings beginning January 1, 2020 , making Berkeley the first city in California to take such action. The case challenged the practice of cities across California of usurping state and federal regulations governing the use of energy in buildings.

"Congress intended to set a national energy policy, and cities and states cannot bypass federal preemption by regulating piping instead of natural gas products," RJLF partner Sarah O. Jorgensen shared. "The panel's unanimous decision that Berkeley's ban on natural gas piping is preempted by EPCA sets an important precedent for future cases, especially with other cities and states considering restrictions on natural gas, and it prevents a patchwork of disparate regulations and protects consumer choice."

In the original complaint filed November 21, 2019 , the CRA highlighted that its members include restaurants that "rely on gas for cooking particular types of food," as well as for heating space and water, for backup power, and for affordable power, and that they would "be unable to prepare many of their specialties without natural gas." Berkeley's Ordinance harms the CRA's members, who would not be able to move into or build new buildings while also preparing food in the manner and with the speed necessary and using a reliable and affordable energy source. The drastic step of requiring "all-electric" new buildings stands at odds with the need for a reliable, resilient, and affordable energy supply. The Berkeley Ordinance conflicts with both federal and state law, is contrary to the public interest, and harms CRA and its members, the CRA argued.

The District Court dismissed the complaint in July 2021 , finding that the CRA had standing and the dispute was ripe, but disagreeing on the statutory interpretation of federal energy law. The CRA appealed that statutory interpretation to the Ninth Circuit. The significance of this first-in-the-nation attempt to ban natural gas at a local level prompted amici briefs from states, industry associations, and the Department of Justice. Brian C. Baran of RJLF argued the case for the CRA before a three-judge panel in May 2022 .

Along with partners Courtland L. Reichman and Sarah O. Jorgensen , the CRA is represented by associates Brian C. Baran , Laura Carwile , and David King , as well as co-counsel Gary J. Toman from Weinberg, Wheeler, Hudgins, Gunn & Dial LLC and Kylie Chiseul Kim from Kellogg, Hansen, Todd, Evans, Figel & Frederick LLP.

The case is California Restaurant Association v. City of Berkeley, Case No. 21-16278 (9th Cir.).

About The California Restaurant Association

The California Restaurant Association (CRA) is the largest nonprofit statewide restaurant trade association in the nation. Representing the restaurant and hospitality industries since 1906, the CRA is made up of nearly 22,000 restaurant locations in California .

About Reichman Jorgensen Lehman & Feldberg LLP

Reichman Jorgensen Lehman & Feldberg LLP (RJLF) is an elite national trial firm that handles high-stakes commercial litigation, intellectual property, and white collar disputes. The firm is majority women-owned and rejects the billable hour in favor of fee arrangements that align client interests. RJLF's attorneys are diverse, exceptionally credentialed, and passionate about trial advocacy. From offices in Silicon Valley , New York , Washington, D.C. , and Atlanta , the firm tries cases and argues appeals throughout the country. For more information, visit www.reichmanjorgensen.com.

Contact :

Jennifer Estremera

[email protected]

(650) 623.1407

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SOURCE Reichman Jorgensen Lehman & Feldberg LLP
Trisha Loftis and her daughter Ashlyn, 13, sit outside the house where 16-year-old Ralph Yarl was shot several days earlier when he went to the wrong address to pick up his brothers.

The mother of Ralph Yarl, the Black teenager shot when he mistakenly went to the wrong Kansas City, Missouri, home to pick up his younger brothers, said her son is crying buckets of tears as he comes to grips with what happened to him. Ralph is doing considerably well, Cleo Nagbe told CBS Mornings co-host Gayle King on Tuesday. Physically, mornings are hard, but his spirits are in a good place. I borrow from his spirits. He is in very good hands.

Nagbe said the trauma remains evident. She said her 16-year-old son is able to communicate mostly when he feels like it, but mostly he just sits there and stares and the buckets of tears just rolls down his eyes.

You can see that he is just replaying the situation over and over again, and that just doesnt stop my tears either, she said.

Kansas City police said the shooter, 84-year-old Andrew Lester, has still not been arrested. There was no answer at Lesters home phone and he does not yet have an attorney, according to Missouri court records.

The shooting happened about 10 p.m. Thursday. Police Chief Stacey Graves said that Yarls parents asked him to pick up his twin brothers at a home on 115th Terrace. Yarl, an honor student and all-state band member, mistakenly went to 115th Street. When he rang the bell, Lester came to the door and shot Yarl in the forehead  then shot him again, in the right forearm.

Lester told police he lives alone and was scared to death when he saw a Black male on the porch and thought someone was trying to break in, according to the probable cause statement.

No words were exchanged before the shooting, but afterward, as Yarl got up to run, he heard Lester yell, Dont come around here, the statement said.

Yarl ran to multiple homes asking for help before finding someone who would call the police, the statement said.

James Lynch was the neighbor who found Yarl. Lynch didnt immediately respond to an interview request but his wife, Tiffany, in a brief interview confirmed an NBC News report that said Lynch heard shouting and saw Yarl banging on the door of another home.

I heard somebody screaming, Help, help, Ive been shot! Lynch, who is white, told NBC. The father of three ran out and found Yarl covered in blood. Lynch checked his pulse and, when another neighbor came out with towels, helped stem the bleeding until paramedics arrived.

He just wants the family to know that Ralph wasnt alone, Tiffany Lynch said, adding that the action was typical of her husband. He helps out anyone he can and always has, she said.

The shooting outraged many in Kansas City and across the country. Civic and political leaders  including President Joe Biden  demanded justice.

Clay County Prosecuting Attorney Zachary Thompson said Monday that there was a racial component to the shooting. But Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Alexander Higginbotham clarified in an email to The Associated Press on Tuesday that there is not a racial element to the legal charges that were filed.

Still, some  including lawyers for Yarls family  pressed the racial dimension of the case. A protest rally was planned for Tuesday afternoon, and NAACP leaders planned a news conference at the rally site.

The police are not treating this case in the same way Black people accused of murder are treated, Missouri NAACP President Nimrod Chapel Jr. said in a statement. A Black suspect would have been in jail.

Rev. Vernon Howard, president of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference of Greater Kansas City, called the shooting a heinous and hate-filled crime. Vice President Kamala Harris wrote on Twitter that No child should ever live in fear of being shot for ringing the wrong doorbell. The Missouri Senate held a moment of silence for Yarl on Monday.

The civil rights attorneys for Yarls family, Ben Crump and Lee Merritt, said in a statement that Biden called the teens family and offered prayers for Ralphs health and for justice.

The assault charge carries a penalty of up to life in prison. Lester also was charged with armed criminal action, which has a penalty range of three to 15 years in prison. Lester was not charged with a hate crime. Thompson said first-degree assault is a higher-level felony with a more severe penalty.

It wasnt immediately clear if the U.S. Department of Justice was investigating. Messages left with a spokesman were not immediately returned.

St. Louis defense attorney Nina McDonnell said Missouris hate crime statute is only used to enhance low-level felony or misdemeanor charges. Since first-degree assault is a class-A felony  the highest level, with a penalty of up to life in prison  filing a hate crime would have no impact on Lesters penalty if convicted.

McDonnell expects Lesters lawyers to cite self-defense under Missouris Stand Your Ground law. She said the law allows for use of deadly force if a person is in fear for his or her life.

Thats going to be a huge hurdle to get around, McDonnell said. The defendant was in his house and has expressed that he was in fear.

By Tuesday morning, a GoFundMe page set up for Yarls medical bills had raised $2.8 million from 75,000 donations.

Yarl is a bass clarinetist who earned Missouri All-State Band honorable mention and who plays several instruments in the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra of Kansas City, Spoonmore wrote. A statement from the North Kansas City School District described Yarl as an excellent student and talented musician.

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Accomplished executive will shepherd rapid growth delivering carbon visualization software in Japan and throughout APAC

TEMPE, Ariz. , April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Persefoni, a global leader in climate data disclosure and management, today announced that Shinji Tsukamoto , former Vice President Asia Pacific at Amazon Ads, has been appointed as Global Chief Commercial Officer & President, APAC. Shinji will lead the company's strategic growth initiatives globally, especially both Japan and the APAC region, serving enterprises requiring carbon management and accounting software.

Accomplished executive will shepherd rapid growth delivering carbon visualization software in Japan and throughout APAC

Prior to Persefoni, Shinji led the launch and expansion of Amazon Japan's advertising business. He first joined Amazon Ads Japan as General Manager/Director and was then appointed as Japan Country Manager after playing a key role in launching the business.

Previously, Shinji founded the premium travel service, DUFL Inc., in the U.S. and served as the President for International Business. Before that, he held various executive positions at Mitsui & Co., Critical Path, Microsoft Advertising Japan, and Limelight Networks Japan. He has served as board member of Japan Internet Advertising Association (JIAA) and on the advisory board of ad:tech Tokyo , contributing to the development of internet advertising.

Persefoni's award-winning Climate Management & Accounting Platform (CMAP) software is not only translated into Japanese, but the company has a considerable track record of investment in the market, including strategic partnerships with such respected market leaders as SCSK, Hitachi, NTT Communications, SMBC, IBM, and more.

"I am excited to be joining Persefoni, not only returning to my roots building market-creating enterprise software, but to work on this truly important challenge of developing climate tech tools for our global markets facing environmental concerns," said Shinji. "Decarbonization is imperative and disclosure is quickly becoming mandatory around the globe; both are much harder to navigate successfully without software tools like those championed by Persefoni.

"What Persefoni has built is truly impressive: the technology, the team, and the partner ecosystem. I have already hit the ground running."

"We are very fortunate to have a leader of Shinji's experience join Persefoni," said Kentaro Kawamori , Persefoni CEO & Co-founder. "He has extensive experience leading iconic brands in the region, a compelling track record for delivering highly efficient software solutions, and success building category-creating markets. He's tailor-made for this stage in Persefoni's APAC growth, and we're very pleased to have him leading our efforts."

About Persefoni

Persefoni's Climate Management & Accounting Platform (CMAP) provides businesses, financial institutions, and governmental agencies the software fabric for managing their organization's climate-related data, disclosures, and performance with the same level of rigor and confidence as their financial reporting systems. The company's software enables users to simplify the calculation of their carbon footprint, identify decarbonization strategies and perform climate trajectory modeling aligned to temperature rise scenarios set forth by the Paris agreement, and benchmark their impact by region, sector, and/or peer groups.

For more information about Persefoni, please visit https://persefoni.com/

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SOURCE Persefoni
ARLINGTON, Va. , April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Summit Ridge Energy and Black Bear Energy are proud to announce that construction has commenced on four industrial solar projects in Maryland . The sites, in Belcamp and Rosedale , total over 17 MW of rooftop hosted solar that will be part of the Maryland Community Solar program providing low-cost renewable energy to local residents. Developed and owned by Summit Ridge Energy (SRE) and facilitated by Black Bear Energy, these sites will generate over 30 million kWh of electricity annually  the equivalent of powering over 2,000 homes. The industrial assets are owned by LBA Logistics, a full-service real estate investment and management company.

"LBA is excited to see these four community solar projects in Maryland begin construction. We recognize our critical role in decarbonizing the built environment and delivering environmental solutions and benefits to the surrounding communities where our real estate assets reside. Delivering roughly 17 MW of solar to the Belcamp and Rosedale communities is a big accomplishment for LBA and we look forward to future opportunities," said Michelle German , Vice President of ESG at LBA Logistics.

"Summit Ridge Energy is proud to expand our community solar leadership in Maryland by partnering with LBA and Black Bear Energy on these projects and increasing access to clean energy. LBA continues to be a leader amongst real estate owners in developing clean, local energy and using their assets for environmental good," adds SRE's Vice President of Business Development Nate Greenberg .

Drew Torbin , Black Bear Energy's President, said, "Black Bear is honored to have facilitated this partnership between LBA and SRE. Both are industry leaders that are paving the way for a cleaner, more energy independent future. A project of this size generates real value for the community, enabling local residents and business owners who otherwise cannot host solar on their own roofs to benefit from low-cost clean electricity. We look forward to continuing to help LBA develop solar across their assets nationwide."

About LBA

LBA is a full-service real estate investment and management company with a diverse portfolio of office and industrial properties. LBA's industrial footprint spans the U.S. in major logistics markets throughout the country while their office portfolio is located in major Western U.S. markets.

About SRE

Launched in 2017, Summit Ridge Energy is the nation's leading commercial solar company. Through its strategic partnerships and project financing expertise, the company develops and acquires pre-operational projects within the rapidly growing solar energy and battery storage sectors. In the past five years, SRE has deployed over $1.6B USD into clean energy assets. This year, SRE will have more than 400 MW of PV online, providing solar power to 50,000 homes.

About Black Bear Energy

Black Bear Energy is a technology-enabled, commercial buyer's representative specializing in onsite renewable energy and cleantech services. In the past five years, Black Bear has helped its clients bid out over 1,000 clean technology projects in more than 20 states through its data driven process. For more information about Black Bear Energy, visit BlackBearEnergy.com. For press inquiries, contact [email protected].

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SOURCE Summit Ridge Energy
Bharat Ayyar Succeeds Alejandro Bergad, Sunsoil's Co-Founder and New Chief Vision Officer

BURLINGTON, Vt ., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Sunsoil , a certified organic hemp farm and top-five CBD brand, announced the appointment of Bharat Ayyar as CEO. Ayyar succeeds the company's co-founder Alejandro Bergad , who will remain on Sunsoil's leadership team as its Chief Vision Officer and member of the Board of Directors.

Ayyar first came across Sunsoil in 2018, when he made his first purchase from the company (then called Green Mountain CBD). Five years later, he takes over as the company's CEO, as Sunsoil sets its sights on becoming the market leader in CBD.

"Sunsoil is uniquely positioned to serve consumers," says Ayyar. "We're vertically integrated with our farms in Vermont . We have a uniquely efficient and natural process for making CBD oil. This means we can offer certified organic CBD oil at half the cost of what other brands sell for  all while being profitable."

Since joining the company in 2020, Ayyar has seen the CBD industry face a number of challenges  from the uncertain regulatory environment to the pandemic's impact on Sunsoil's retail partners.

Still, Sunsoil has found success. The company has doubled the size of its ecommerce business and signed major distribution deals, including most recently in 2023 a partnership with Sprouts Farmers Market.

Ayyar plans to grow Sunsoil by leaning into the company's core strength and mission: making the highest-quality, organic CBD at the lowest prices in the industry.

"At today's prices, CBD is a luxury product  but it has the potential to help millions of people," says Ayyar. "CBD is going to be on your pharmacy's shelf one day right next Advil  but prices have to come way down without sacrificing quality. We're going to make that happen."

Bergad, who previously served as CEO since founding Sunsoil in 2015, will transition to his new role as the company's Chief Vision Officer. In that role, he'll focus on innovations in agriculture, processing and manufacturing that will allow Sunsoil to further reduce its prices over time.

"This is an exciting new chapter for Sunsoil," says Bergad. "We've been at this for eight years, but in many ways we are still at the beginning of our story  our mission to bring great CBD to the people."

Ayyar is an experienced leader with a background in marketing, ecommerce, and strategy. Prior to Sunsoil, he was the General Manager of Simple Contacts, a direct-to-consumer telemedicine startup, and the CEO and co-founder of Conductor, a mobile transportation app startup. He is a graduate of Yale University and the Stanford Graduate School of Business.

ABOUT SUNSOIL

Sunsoil is a vertically integrated, organic CBD brand based in Vermont . Sunsoil is on a mission to create affordable access to the highest-quality CBD products through its innovative farming and manufacturing practices. One of the top five CBD brands in the country, Sunsoil offers organic CBD tinctures, capsules and gummies. Sunsoil pioneered a better way to make CBD oil called "whole-plant infusion"  departing from the standard industry practice of CO2 or alcohol extraction  because it involves minimal processing of the plant and is naturally cost-effective. For more information, visit, https://sunsoil.com and follow along on http://instagram.com/sunsoil.

MEDIA CONTACT

Elaine LaPersonerie

WinkPR

9179304080

[email protected]

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SOURCE Sunsoil
Bristol Myers Squibb, Genentech, Janssen, Lilly, Merck, and other biopharma leaders to share strategies for advancing commercial excellence

PLEASANTON, Calif. , April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Veeva Systems (NYSE: VEEV) today announced that leaders from Bristol Myers Squibb, Eli Lilly and Company, Genentech, Janssen, and Merck will be keynote speakers at the 2023 Veeva Commercial Summit on May 2-3 in Boston . Speakers from leading and emerging biopharmas will share how advancements in digital engagement, content, data, and analytics elevate commercial strategy and execution.

One of the largest industry events in North America for commercial and medical affairs professionals, Veeva Commercial Summit will host nearly 1,500 people across more than 90 sessions. Veeva CEO Peter Gassner will headline the opening keynote with a bold vision to connect sales, medical, and marketing for commercial excellence. Veeva experts will join the stage to showcase the company's plans for future software, data, and services innovations to help companies get the right treatments to patients more efficiently.

Other featured keynotes include:

Bristol Myers Squibb on the future of omnichannel and customer engagement.

on the future of omnichannel and customer engagement. Genentech on bridging marketing operations, IT, and medical, legal, and regulatory (MLR) to create meaningful customer experiences.

on bridging marketing operations, IT, and medical, legal, and regulatory (MLR) to create meaningful customer experiences. Janssen on taking a modern approach to patient-level data that fuels high-impact commercial initiatives.

on taking a modern approach to patient-level data that fuels high-impact commercial initiatives. Lilly and Merck on advancing medical affairs as a strategic leader at the center of R&D and commercial.

"The industry is transforming engagement with healthcare professionals by creating greater synergies across sales, medical, and marketing," said Paul Shawah , executive vice president at Veeva. "We look forward to bringing the industry together to share effective strategies and insights that advance commercial excellence."

The event is open to life sciences industry professionals. Register and see the full agenda and program details at veeva.com/Summit.

Additional Information

To register for Veeva Commercial Summit, visit: veeva.com/Summit/Register Connect with Veeva on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/veeva-systems

About Veeva Systems

Veeva is the global leader in cloud software for the life sciences industry. Committed to innovation, product excellence, and customer success, Veeva serves more than 1,000 customers, ranging from the world's largest pharmaceutical companies to emerging biotechs. As a Public Benefit Corporation, Veeva is committed to balancing the interests of all stakeholders, including customers, employees, shareholders, and the industries it serves. For more information, visit veeva.com

Contact:

Alison Borris

Veeva Systems

925-226-8821

[email protected]

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SOURCE Veeva Systems
FILE PHOTO: Chief Executive Officer at Aurubis Roland Harings speaks during an official ceremony to mark the first arrival of an ammonia delivery from the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company in the harbor in Hamburg, Germany October 21, 2022. REUTERS/Fabian Bi

SANTIAGO (Reuters) - Aurubis AG, Europe's largest copper smelter and producer, no longer buys the red metal from Russia after it let supply contracts lapse, its CEO told Reuters on Monday.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine last year fueled a range of boycotts, sanctions and other measures against copper and other metals from the country.

Aurubis, which is not a miner, but refines and recycles copper into wire and other components, had contracts for Russian supply of the red metal that it did not renew when they recently ended, Aurubis CEO Roland Harings said on the sidelines of the World Copper Conference in Santiago, the copper industry's largest gathering since 2019.

"We are not buying Russian copper anymore. It's completely out of our system," he said. Harings had asked the London Metal Exchange last October to impose a ban on Russian metal due to risk of warehouses filling up. Copper supply contracts typically end on a calendar-year basis.

Russia in 2021 - the year before the invasion - supplied Germany-based Aurubis and the entire European Union with nearly 292,000 tonnes of an 801,000 tonnes of imported copper, according to data from Trade Data Monitor.

Despite that amount, the copper market has pivoted to new sources of the red metal and Aurubis does not have supply concerns, Harings said.

"We have been able without real problems to replace the Russian copper units that we were buying with other sources," Harings said.

Elsewhere, Harings said the broader copper market was generally healthy and noted that Aurubis is reporting strong demand, especially for cable and other products for the green energy transition.

"There are significant demands for many, many years to come for copper," Harings said.

(Reporting by Ernest Scheyder; Editing by Josie Kao)
FILE PHOTO: Crops are seen in a barley field at a farm near Moree, an inland town in New South Wales, Australia October 27, 2020. REUTERS/Jonathan Barrett/File Photo/File Photo

SYDNEY (Reuters) - Australia on Tuesday reaffirmed its commitment to improving agriculture ties with China after a ministerial meeting, as Canberra cheered progress made toward restoring trade in barley amid a thawing in diplomatic relations.

Australia last week said it had reached an agreement with China to resolve their dispute over barley imports which followed Beijing in January resuming purchases of Australian coal after almost three years, and a ramping of up beef imports.

Agriculture Minister Murray Watt said the resumption of normal trade was in the interests of both countries after a meeting with Chinese agriculture vice minister Ma Youxiang in Canberra on Monday.

"I reiterated our clear and consistent position that all trade impediments affecting Australian exports should be removed," Watt said in a statement. "We also discussed bilateral issues, including trade and consular matters."

Australia's diplomatic relations with its largest trading partner had been severely strained since 2018 when it banned China's Huawei from providing equipment during the rollout of its 5G network. Ties soured further after Canberra called for an independent investigation into the origin of COVID-19.

China responded by imposing tariffs on Australian commodities including wine and barley.

But tensions have eased after the centre-left Labor government returned to power last year in Australia. Ma Youxiang's visit comes just days after vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu's trip to Australia.

Chinese officials are showing a "sincere desire for co-operation" to remove the punitive tariffs on Australian wine, Watt told The Australian newspaper. Australia expects to reach a deal with China in its dispute over wine tariffs after the agreement on barley.

Wine exports to mainland China, which was Australia's top market by value before Beijing imposed tariffs, plunged to about A$12 million ($8 million) in 2022 from A$1.3 billion in 2019, a report by industry body Wine Australia in February showed.

($1 = 1.4928 Australian dollars)

(Reporting by Renju Jose in Sydney; Editing by Lincoln Feast.)
By Humeyra Pamuk and Sakura Murakami

KARUIZAWA, Japan (Reuters) -The Group of Seven industrial powers drew together on Tuesday to criticise China's coercion of Taiwan and Russia's threat to station nuclear weapons in Belarus, promising to intensify sanctions on Moscow for its war on neighbouring Ukraine.

"The strength of the solidarity between the G7 foreign ministers is at a level not seen before," Japan's Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi told a news conference after hosting a meeting of the group in the Japanese resort town of Karuizawa.

The show of unity comes after French President Emmanuel Macron this month said the European Union should reduce its dependency on the United States and cautioned against being drawn into a Taiwan crisis.

Beijing, which views Taiwan as Chinese territory and has not renounced the use of force to take the democratically governed island, rebuffed the G7 comments as gross interference in its internal affairs, however.

The G7 communique highlights how the dual issues of Russian military intervention and fears of similar action by China against Taiwan have been a focus of the three-day meeting.

The group, which comprises the United States, Japan, Germany, Britain, France, Italy and Canada, described Russia's threat to put nuclear weapons in Belarus as "unacceptable". It said "any use of chemical, biological or nuclear weapons in Ukraine "would be met with severe consequences."

Russian President Vladimir Putin last month said Russia would station shorter-range, so-called tactical nuclear weapons because the NATO military alliance was expanding towards Russia's borders.

It was the first time since the Cold War ended three decades ago that Russia has suggested stationing nuclear forces in another country, raising the stakes in its intensifying standoff with the West over Ukraine.

In a bid to limit Moscow's ability to wage its war, the G7 ministers in their communique also warned other nations, which the U.S. and other Western nation worry could include China, not to supply Russia's armed forces.

"We will reinforce our coordination to prevent and respond to third parties supplying weapons to Russia," they said.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken last month said China had not yet supplied Russia with lethal aid, but U.S. officials are also concerned about dual-use products, such as electronics components that can be used in missiles and other weapons.

In a news conference after the G7 meeting, Blinken criticised Russia after a days-long pause in the inspection of ships moving grains from Ukraine under a U.N.-brokered initiative.

On Tuesday Russian media said inspections had restarted.

Taking direct aim at China, the ministers also agreed that peace and security in the Taiwan Strait were critical and opposed militarisation of the South China Sea. They called on Beijing to act.

"We remind China of the need to uphold the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and abstain from threats, coercion intimidation and the use of force," the ministers said in the document, which included a condemnation of North Korea's missile launches and expressed concern about Myanmar, Afghanistan and Iran.

China's foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said the G7 communique grossly interfered in the country's internal affairs, and maliciously smeared and discredited it.

The statements were "full of arrogance, prejudice against China," Wang told a regular media briefing, adding, "We have made a strong demarche to the host Japan."

Wang urged the G7 instead "to reflect on their own problems".

"We should abandon the Cold War mentality and ideological prejudices, stop condescending and pointing fingers at other countries, and stop artificially creating confrontation and division in the international community," he said.

(Reporting by Sakura Murakami and Humeyra Pamuk, additional reporting by Laurie Chen in Beijing; Writing by Tim Kelly; Editing by David Dolan and Lincoln Feast)
MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - Members of Mexico's National Guard are suspected of killing two civilians this weekend in the northern border city of Nuevo Laredo, including a pregnant teenager, a state official and local media said on Monday.

The shooting was likely due to a mix-up because a vehicle with gunmen in it had been reported in the area, the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity because the case is in federal hands. Survivors of the shooting identified National Guard members as their attackers, the official said.

A spokesperson for Tamaulipas state prosecutors said the investigation was with the federal attorney general's office, which did not respond to a request for comment.

The National Guard did not respond to a request for comment.

Newspaper El Universal reported a 15-year-old girl, who was eight months pregnant, and a 54-year-old man died of their injuries after suspected National Guard members opened fire on the vehicle they were traveling in on Sunday.

Doctors performed an emergency caesarian to try to save the unborn child's life, but it died, newspaper La Jornada said.

At least three other people in the vehicle were injured, according to media reports. News network Milenio said the vehicle had license plates from the U.S. state of Texas.

The incident comes amid criticism from civil society organizations about the militarization of public security.

The Nuevo Laredo Human Rights Committee said one of the people injured in Sunday's shooting, Luis Rodriguez, told it that the National Guard was responsible.

The committee said Rodriguez reported he had set out with friends including the pregnant teenager, identified as Miriam Flores, in an SUV with Texas license plates.

A person familiar with the investigation said by the time police were informed of the shooting, the National Guard and emergency services were at the scene.

Nuevo Laredo and the surrounding state of Tamaulipas has long been plagued by gang violence.

City mayor Carmen Lilia Canturosas on Facebook offered condolences to the victims, without specifying what was behind the incident. Authorities were investigating, she said.

(Reporting by Dave Graham; Additional reporting by Daina Beth Solomon, Lizbeth Diaz and Kylie Madry; Editing by Christopher Cushing)
Police officers escort Jose Wilfredo Ayala, 55, known as "el Indio de Hollywood", a Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13) gang leader currently wanted for multiple crimes in the United States, in Mexico City, Mexico April 18, 2023. Secretaria de Seguridad Ciudadana de

SAN SALVADOR (Reuters) - Police in Mexico City arrested one of the most wanted leaders of the notorious Mara Salvatrucha gang accused of multiple crimes in the United States, officials said on Tuesday, in a fresh blow to one of Central America's most violent criminal groups.

Jose Wilfredo Ayala, 55, was arrested after a tip from a neighbor, according to the Mexican capital's security ministry. The ministry said it had discovered Ayala - believed to be second-in-command of the gang commonly known as MS-13 - was using a false identity and hiding in Mexico City and in two areas a short drive north in Hidalgo state.

An official with Mexico's national immigration institute INM told Reuters later on Tuesday that Ayala had already been deported to his native El Salvador, but did not provide further detail.

Surveillance video showed Ayala, also known by his alias "Indio" or "El Indio de Hollywood," was likely sheltering in a building in the Mexican capital's Buenavista neighborhood.

Ayala is "under investigation for homicide charges and is tied to other crimes like aggravated robbery, using false documents, possessing weapons of war, public disorder, and others committed in the United States," the ministry said in a statement.

A warrant for Ayala's arrest in the U.S. state of Texas citing federal charges is outstanding, officials added.

In an indictment against more than a dozen of MS-13's "highest-ranking" leaders, made public on Feb. 23 by federal prosecutors in New York, Ayala was listed as one of four fugitive leaders. Six others are believed to be in custody of Salvadoran authorities.

El Salvador's justice and security ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Ayala's capture.

(Reporting by Nelson Renteria in San Salvador; Additional reporting by Lizbeth Diaz in Mexico City; Writing by Brendan O'Boyle; Editing by David Alire Garcia and Lincoln Feast)
By Gwladys Fouche and Victoria Klesty

OSLO (Reuters) - Norway's $1.4 trillion sovereign wealth fund on Tuesday welcomed a government request that it consider investing in unlisted equities and said it will make a recommendation by December.

The Norwegian Finance Ministry said last month it had asked the fund, the world's largest single stock market investor, to assess whether to start investing in unlisted equities.

Successive Norwegian governments had refrained from allowing the fund from investing in that asset class, due to the risk it could be stuck with an investment it could not divest from.

Norway's central bank manages the fund, which owns 1.5% of all globally listed shares with stakes in 9,200 companies.

While more than two thirds of its investments are in stocks, the fund also invests the Norwegian state's revenues from oil production in bonds, real estate and renewable energy projects.

"Norges Bank looks positively on this review, and we will return with our advice and assessments towards the end of the year," the central bank's governor Ida Wolden Bache told a parliamentary hearing on Tuesday.

At present, the fund is only able to invest in a private company if it is about to be listed, but this means the fund risks missing out, its CEO Nicolai Tangen told Reuters.

"Much ... of the value creation has already taken place. We want to have a part in that value creation," Tangen said.

Earlier, Tangen told the parliamentary hearing that investing in private equity had become more transparent.

"Transparency has increased a lot. All the big comparable funds are fairly heavily invested in this (segment)," he said.

"The reputation risk in private equity is actually lower compared to how we are set up now," Tangen said, adding such investments could potentially yield significant extra returns.

GRAPHIC - Market value of Norway's wealth fund

https://www.reuters.com/graphics/NORWAY-SWF/RENEWABLES/zgvobrgwxpd/chart.png

(Reporting by Gwladys Fouche and Victoria Klesty, Editing by Terje Solsvik, Ed Osmond and Alexander Smith)
KYODO NEWS - Apr 18, 2023 - 21:31 | All, Japan, World

Foreign ministers of Japan and France agreed Tuesday to promote security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region, confirming the importance of stability across the Taiwan Strait after French President Emmanuel Macron cautioned against being drawn into a Taiwan crisis amid a U.S.-China rivalry.

Speaking to Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi, France's Catherine Colonna stated that the security of the Indo-Pacific and Europe is "indivisible" and that it is important to respect the international order based on the rule of law, according to the Japanese Foreign Ministry.

The two held the talks in Tokyo after leaving the resort town of Karuizawa in central Japan, where the Group of Seven foreign ministerial meeting was held through Tuesday.

The G-7 gathering took place after Macron sparked controversy in the United States and Europe for calling on Europeans not to be "followers" of either the United States or China and warned of being drawn into a crisis over Taiwan driven by what he called "the American rhythm and a Chinese overreaction."

At the Karuizawa talks, the top diplomats from Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United States, plus the European Union, reaffirmed the importance of "peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait," calling it "an indispensable element in security and prosperity in the international community."

Beijing regards self-ruled, democratic Taiwan as a breakaway province to be united with the mainland, by force if necessary.

Japan and France have been deepening ties, sharing the vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific amid China's growing military assertiveness. France is the only European Union member with overseas territories in the Indo-Pacific.

Earlier Tuesday in Karuizawa, Hayashi met Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly. They pledged to work closely to realize a free and open Indo-Pacific and to cooperate in dealing with North Korea, which continues to launch ballistic missiles in defiance of U.N. Security Council resolutions.

They also held talks on a trans-Pacific free trade agreement, according to the Japanese Foreign Ministry, referring to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, of which Japan and Canada are members.

In late March, the members agreed to allow Britain to join the 11-nation free trade pact, marking the first expansion of the deal and raising the bloc's share of global economic output to 15 percent.

Related coverage:

Japan, U.S. agree to work toward successful G-7 Hiroshima summit

G-7 unified in backing Taiwan peace, urges China to act responsibly

French minister calls on China to act responsibly over Taiwan
FILE PHOTO: Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov takes part in a meeting of the CIS Council of Foreign Ministers in Samarkand, Uzbekistan April 14, 2023. Russian Foreign Ministry/Handout via REUTERS

By Michelle Nichols

UNITED NATIONS (Reuters) -Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will discuss the Ukraine Black Sea grain export deal with U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in New York next week, just weeks before the pact could expire unless Russian demands regarding its own exports are met.

Lavrov is due to chair two U.N. Security Council meetings as Russia holds the presidency of the 15-member body for April. Russian U.N. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia said Lavrov and most of his delegation had received U.S. visas to travel to New York.

He will also meet with Guterres, said Nebenzia. Russia has warned that the outlook for the deal allowing the safe wartime export of grain and fertilizer from Ukrainian Black Sea ports beyond May 18 is "not so great."

"Of course, he will be raising that during his bilateral (meeting with Guterres)," Nebenzia told reporters.

"Nothing is moving, efforts are being made but unfortunately they are fruitless for us," he said, referring to U.N. attempts to help facilitate Russia's own food and fertilizer exports despite broad Western sanctions imposed on Moscow over its Feb. 24, 2022 invasion. "We clearly said we want to see progress."

The grain export deal was brokered by the United Nations and Turkey in July 2022 to help tackle a global food crisis that U.N. officials said had been worsened by Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the deadliest war in Europe since World War Two.

It was extended in November and then last month Russia only agreed to renew the deal for at least 60 days, half the intended period. Moscow said it would only consider a further extension if several demands in relation to its own exports were met.

"We continue to be determined to have this deal implemented fully as we are continuing with determination to work on the other part of the package, which is the facilitation of Russian grain and fertilizer. The stakes for this are very high," U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric said on Tuesday.

To help persuade Russia to allow Ukraine to resume Black Sea grain exports, a separate three-year pact was also struck in July in which the U.N. agreed to help Russia export food and fertilizer.

Ukraine said on Monday that the Black Sea grain deal faced the threat of being halted.

(Reporting by Michelle Nichols; editing by Doina Chiacu, Mark Heinrich and Jonathan Oatis)
Mondher Ounissi, vice president of Ennahda party, speaks during a news conference at the party headquarters in Tunis, Tunisia April 17, 2023. REUTERS/Jihed Abidellaoui

TUNIS (Reuters) - Tunisian police arrested three prominent officials of the main opposition Ennahda party on Tuesday, hours after they detained party leader Rached Ghannouchi, the most prominent critic of President Kais Saied, a lawyer and officials said.

Lawyer Monia Bouali told Reuters that the officials arrested are Mohamed Goumani, Belkacem Hassan and Mohammed Chnaiba. Officials in Ennahda confirmed the arrests.

Police raided Ennahda party headquarters early on Tuesday and evacuated all present to start a search that will take days, after showing a judicial warrant, party officials said.

Police have this year detained leading political figures who accuse Saied of what they call a coup after closing the elected parliament in 2021 and his move to rule by decree before rewriting the constitution.

The earlier arrests, that have led to charges of conspiring against state security, have drawn statements of concern from the U.S. and rights groups.

An interior ministry official said Ghannouchi had been brought in for questioning and his house searched on the orders of the public prosecutor investigating "inciting statements".

Ghannouchi's lawyers said that they had no idea about the course of investigations.

Ghannouchi said in an opposition meeting on Saturday, "Tunisia without Ennahda, without political Islam, without the left, or any other component, is a project for civil war".

The 81-year-old, who was in exile in the 1990s and returned during Tunisia's 2011 revolution that brought democracy, said those who "celebrated the coup are extremists and terrorists".

Since Saied's seizure of broad powers, which the president says was needed to save Tunisia from years of crisis, Ghannouchi has been the biggest political party leader to oppose him.

(Reporting by Tarek Amara; Editing by Nick Macfie)
Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy addresses the Ukrainian service members at a frontline, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Avdiivka, Donetsk region, Ukraine April 18, 2023. Ukrainian Presidential Press Service/Handout via REUTERS

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Tuesday he and U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Kevin McCarthy discussed in a phone call Ukraine's need for weapons as well as increasing sanctions pressure on Russia.

On Twitter, Zelenskiy said he thanked McCarthy for bipartisan support in Congress for Ukraine as well as Ukraine's defense needs. "Outlined the situation at the front & Ukraine's urgent defense needs in armored vehicles, artillery, air defense & aircraft," Zelenskiy's tweet said.

He said they also discussed enhancing sanctions pressure on Russia, including in oil and gas.

A spokesman for McCarthy, the highest-ranking Republican in Washington, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

With strong support from both President Joe Biden's Democrats and McCarthy's fellow Republicans, Congress has approved billions of dollars of humanitarian, economic and defense aid for Ukraine since the Russian invasion began in February 2022, including a $45 billion aid package approved in December.

However, some hard-right Republicans have questioned the aid, saying federal funds should be spent on domestic needs or devoted to competition with rising power China.

McCarthy's position has been that he backs Ukraine but House Republicans, who took control of the chamber in January, will not provide "a blank check" for U.S. assistance to Kyiv.

(Reporting by Patricia Zengerle; Editing by Cynthia Osterman)
FILE PHOTO: FTC Commissioner nominee Lina M. Khan testifies during a Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee hearing on the nomination of Former Senator Bill Nelson to be NASA administrator, on Capitol Hill in Washington, U.S., April 21, 20

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Leaders of the U.S. Federal Trade Commission said on Tuesday the agency would pursue companies who misuse artificial intelligence to violate laws against discrimination or be deceptive.

The sudden popularity of Microsoft-backed OpenAI's ChatGPT this year has prompted calls for regulation amid concerns around the world about the possible use of the innovation for wrongdoing even as companies are seeking ways to use it to enhance efficiency.

In a congressional hearing, FTC Chair Lina Khan and Commissioners Rebecca Slaughter and Alvaro Bedoya were asked about concerns that recent innovation in artificial intelligence, which can be used to produce high quality deep fakes, could be used to make more effective scams or otherwise violate laws.

Bedoya said companies using algorithms or artificial intelligence were not allowed to violate civil rights laws or break rules against unfair and deceptive acts.

"It's not okay to say that your algorithm is a black box" and you can't explain it, he said.

Khan agreed the newest versions of AI could be used to turbocharge fraud and scams and any wrongdoing would "should put them on the hook for FTC action."

Slaughter noted that the agency had throughout its 100 year history had to adapt to changing technologies and indicated that adapting to ChatGPT and other artificial intelligence tools were no different.

The commission is organized to have five members but currently has three, all of whom are Democrats.

(Reporting by Diane Bartz; Editing by Marguerita Choy)
FILE PHOTO-U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra attends a virtual event on securing access to reproductive and other health care services at the first meeting of the interagency Task Force on Reproductive Healthcare Access in the Ind

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra violated the Hatch Act by expressing support for Democratic Senator Alex Padilla's re-election at a public event last year, a U.S. government watchdog said on Tuesday.

The U.S. Office of Special Counsel report cited Becerra's comments that he intended to vote for Padilla while speaking at a Congressional Hispanic Caucus dinner in September in his official capacity as having "mixed his personal electoral preference with official remarks."

Becerra, President Joe Biden's top health official, acknowledged his comments but said they were unintentional.

"While I did not realize at the time that my off-the-cuff remarks concerning my personal voting intentions were in violation of the Hatch Act, I now understand why they were not permitted," he said in a statement included in the report.

The Hatch Act prohibits federal employees from using their official capacity to affect or interfere with elections, although some other political activities are allowed.

The report was sent to Biden, a Democrat, for "appropriate action."

Representatives for the White House could not be immediately reached for comment.

The Office of the Special Counsel, an independent agency, can make recommendations but does not have the authority to enforce them.

It previously cited U.S. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm for comments she made in a magazine interview last year.

Under former Republican President Donald Trump, the office also cited top administration officials for violations and called for one, Kellyanne Conway, to be removed from office.

(Reporting by Jasper Ward in Washington; Editing by Doina Chiacu and Matthew Lewis)
FILE PHOTO: The former office of the America ChangLe Association, described by U.S. authorities as a Chinese 'secret police station' masquerading as a social gathering place for people from China's Fujian province, on the fourth floor of the Royal East Pl

By Michael Martina

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A day after authorities arrested two people on charges of links to a Chinese "secret police station" in New York, a U.S. official said the United States is engaged in an "extensive effort" with international partners to counter Chinese influence operations.

Federal prosecutors said the arrests on Monday were part of a crackdown on China's targeting of dissidents, which Beijing denies. Both men arrested are U.S. citizens.

China's foreign ministry has disputed the existence of such police stations, but has acknowledged what it says are volunteer-run sites in the U.S. and other countries to assist overseas Chinese nationals with tasks such as renewing drivers licenses.

"We will not tolerate the PRC (People's Republic of China) government or any foreign government harassing or threatening U.S. persons," White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters at a regular press briefing.

U.S. and Western authorities have warned that China's government has increasingly exerted pressure to silence its critics abroad, often targeting people of Chinese origin through covert operations in attempts to stifle expression or coerce them to return to China where they might face punishment.

Human rights groups have also complained of threats to academic freedom and monitoring of Chinese students on international university campuses.

Rick Waters, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for China and Taiwan, told a U.S. House of Representatives hearing separately that Washington was aware of China's transnational law enforcement within the borders of "dozens of countries."

Waters said the U.S. was working through public diplomacy and "private diplomatic channels" with partners who had found the same issue in their countries.

"We have been engaged in a pretty extensive effort to share what we know and to develop the tools and response options that are most effective to this unique aspect of China's influence agenda," Waters said.

Safeguard Defenders, a Europe-based human rights organization, published a report in September revealing the presence of dozens of Chinese police "service stations" in major cities around the world, including New York.

(Reporting by Michael Martina and Steve Holland; Editing by Don Durfee and Grant McCool)
WASHINGTON  The Air Force has opened its own investigation into how an airman had access to top secret Defense Department documents and was able to distribute them, service leaders told senators on Tuesday.

This individual, whatever else, had no reason to be looking at or in possession of those documents, Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall told the defense subpanel of the Senate Appropriations Committee. We have to do better.

Kendall said he directed the Air Force inspector general to examine the 102nd Intelligence Wing headquartered at Otis Air National Guard Base in Cape Cod, Mass., where Airman 1st Class Jack Teixeira served and allowed the leak to happen. The wing handles collection and analysis of intelligence gathered from all over the world.

Teixeira, 21, was charged Friday in U.S. District Court in Boston with the unauthorized removal and retention of classified and national defense information. He is expected back in court for a hearing Wednesday. If convicted, Teixeira could face as many as 10 years in prison for each charge.

The Air Force also announced Tuesday that the 102nd Intelligence Wing is not currently performing its assigned intelligence mission. Those responsibilities have been temporarily reassigned to other organizations within the Air Force.

At the hearing, Kendall was questioned by senators about the leaked documents during a hearing on the Air Force and Space Force budgets for fiscal 2024.

"How could this guardsman take this information and distribute it electronically for weeks, if not months, and nobody knew about it?" asked Sen. Jon Tester, D-Mont., the chairman of the subpanel.

Gen. Charles Q. Brown, the service chief of staff, said the Air Force is conducting a service-wide review of how each command handles classified information.

The Air Force review is in addition to a military-wide directive issued Monday by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. He ordered all military facilities handling classified information report to him within 45 days to assess possible changes in how classified information is distributed and who has access.

The leaked documents exposed information relating to the war in Ukraine, U.S. intelligence gathering on other countries and other national security issues.

Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., commented that Teixeira was leaking documents in a gamer chat group, Discord, as if it was like a game to him.

Its not a game, she said. You are endangering lives. You are endangering freedoms. That is the one part that is incomprehensible to me and to many of us.

Brown said Teixeira had access to certain materials based on his job as an information technology specialist.

He took advantage of that access, the general said.
A 28-year-old Fort Bliss sergeant was arrested last week after an El Paso woman identified him as the man who forced his way into her apartment and attempted to sexually assault her, according to local police.

The El Paso Police Department charged Sgt. Christopher Aaron Rey with burglary of a habitation and arrested him April 12. He is due in court Wednesday, according to El Paso County online court records. Fort Bliss officials confirmed Rey is assigned to the Texas Army base, but declined to release his service record.

The offender attempted to sexually assault the victim but the victim was able to fight off the offender, police said in a statement about Reys arrest.

Police were called to the 1400 block of Avalon Drive at about 8:13 a.m. April 7, where officers met with a 19-year-old woman. She told police that she was leaving her apartment to walk her dog when Rey forced his way inside.

The woman began to scream, and Rey told her to shut up and covered her mouth, according to an arrest affidavit. He moved his hands to her throat, and then pushed her onto a couch in the living room. She told police he removed some of her clothing and began to touch her, while she screamed and kicked. He then stopped and ran out of the apartment.

The woman told police that she had seen Rey the week prior at a laundromat, according to the affidavit. Police reviewed video surveillance footage from the laundromat and a nearby car dealership and found video of Rey and his vehicle, a blue Hyundai Tucson.

Four days after the attempted assault, the woman called police at about 1:55 p.m. Through a doorbell video camera, she could see Rey in his military uniform outside her apartment checking the door knob.

Police arrived at the womans apartment and found Reys vehicle slowly driving along the street, according to the affidavit. When a police officer approached the vehicle and asked Rey to turn off the car and get out, he drove off at a high rate of speed.

El Paso police then confirmed Reys identity through the Army Criminal Investigation Division, and the woman confirmed he was the man who attacked her in a photo lineup.

Police arrested Rey the following day but did not say where he was taken into custody.
(Tribune News Service)  Army Sgt. Isaac John Gayo checked in daily with his sister to hear her voice.

He always wanted to make sure everything was fine, Margaritta Gayo said of her younger brother. He was a very kind person, always had a smile on his face, and wanted to help.

Hed also send photos before flights aboard one of the 101st Airborne Divisions Black Hawk helicopters, for which he worked as a maintenance chief.

Including on March 29, when Gayo, 27, of Los Angeles, was one of nine soldiers killed during a night training exercise over Trigg County, Ky. The accident occurred when the helicopter Gayo rode in crashed with another Black Hawk. An investigation into the accident is still ongoing.

I talked with him that morning, and he was just checking in, Margaritta Gayo said. He didnt tell me he was working at night. I just thought he was flying during the day.

Tonight, April 17, at 5 p.m., Gayos remains are expected to arrive at the Los Angeles International Airport for burial at Forest Lawn Hollywood Hills. Community members and first responders, including from Los Angeles-area police and fire agencies, are expected to line the streets in tribute to the fallen soldier. The procession to the cemetery will be led by motorcyclists from the Patriot Guard.

Its important to the family that they can see that the community cares, said Laura Herzog, who operates Honoring Our Fallen and is working with the Armys casualty care officer on the arrangements to bring Gayo home. It is our job as parents, grandparents and the community to honor sacrifice. We need to gather in solidarity, no matter what the differences, and honor the men and women in the military and the first responders.

Gayo, who moved to California with his family from the Philippines in 2012, had learned just the week before the fatal crash that he would go to flight school and start working to become a pilot, his family said.

That was his dream, his sister said. My father wanted to become a pilot and now my brother was doing it.

Tragically, also on the day of his death, Margaritta Gayo, 30, received the paperwork closing on the sale of the condominium she and her brother were purchasing in Los Angeles together. Gayo, a housekeeping supervisor, said the siblings were incredibly close, the two regularly traveled together and loved eating new foods.

Gayo said her brother studied computer engineering in the Phillippines before the family moved to the United States. Then, when they arrived, first living in Pasadena briefly, her brother did what he could to help the family out. He worked three jobs at one point, including at a local market, Universal Studios and the Los Angeles Unified School District, she said.

Gayo enlisted in the Army in 2019, attending basic training at Fort Jackson, S.C., and then took advanced individual training at Fort Eustis, Va.

His awards and decorations include the U.S. Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal and the Overseas Service Ribbon.

Margarrita Gayo and family members attended a military service held by her brothers unit in Fort Campbell on April 6. The somber event included a visit to the crash site, she said, adding the most painful part of the experience was listening to the last roll call where the names of the soldiers who are fallen are called out to no response.

He will be buried later in the week.

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Erin Greer, her husband and their children have lived with poor housing conditions on Fort Gordon for more than six years, she said Tuesday, describing moldy walls, flooded bathrooms  sometimes with sewage water  and a partially collapsed ceiling in their residence.

Last year, after several failed attempts to convince the Balfour Beatty officials in charge of the Fort Gordon housing of the problems plaguing their home, Greer moved her family out  deciding it was safer to sleep in their cars or outside on their porch than stay inside the house, she said during a Senate oversight session in Washington. While the issue of substandard military housing has made national headlines for years and sparked numerous Pentagon, congressional and independent inquiries, the problems, at least at Fort Gordon, have not improved, Greer told Sen. Jon Ossoff, D-Ga.

I want you to know that the problems with Balfour [Beatty] have not gone away, Greer said, fighting back tears. The situation has gotten worse.

Ossoff called the oversight session Tuesday after visiting Fort Gordon last week, where Army officials began a post-wide inspection of every housing unit on the installation. The officials, Ossoff said, will spend the coming weeks looking at every privatized family housing unit, every barracks room and every other dwelling on the Army post, which is just outside Augusta, Ga.

The session came about one year after Ossoff led a bipartisan inquiry into issues plaguing Fort Gordon housing that found in April 2022 that Balfour Beatty-run housing on the installation contained numerous examples of poor living conditions since at least 2019. The report stated Balfour Beatty officials repeatedly ignored residents complaints about mold and closed out maintenance requests without fixing problems, among other problematic behaviors.

In the months since the Ossoff-led report was published, the senator said he has seen signs of progress from Balfour Beatty officials at Fort Gordon. The company has hired more maintenance staff at the installation, put in some new quality-assurance measures  including for gas issues after a major leak last year hospitalized a resident  and has expanded its training and education requirements for its technicians, the senator said.

Balfour Beatty must sustain these efforts, Ossoff said.

However, he said he has seen several persistent areas of concern. In particular, the [ongoing] investigation found that Balfour Beatty continues struggling to ensure the technical quality of maintenance work, to consistently identify and remediate mold in tenant homes, to ensure the accuracy and integrity of all work orders submitted, and to adequately plan for the medium- and long-term sustainability of the housing project at Fort Gordon.

Ossoff also was critical of Balfour Beattys decision to decline his invitation to participate Tuesday in the public oversight session. The lack of representation of the company, the senator said, calls into question their commitment to transparency and their commitment to improvement.

The senator said company officials had complied with Ossoffs requests for documents and answered questions privately in recent months.

A Balfour Beatty Communities spokesperson wrote in an emailed statement that the company was committed to working with Ossoff and the Army to ensure health, safety, and well-being for its residents. The spokesperson acknowledged the company had more work to do.

We appreciate that the progress being made has been recognized, the statement read. We declined the invitation to participate in [Tuesdays] event because we have multiple two-way communication channels in place to maintain transparency into maintenance requests, keep residents informed, and allow them to share their feedback and raise concerns, and because we continue to meet routinely with the local Military Housing Office and Command to ensure any resident housing concerns are being appropriately addressed by our team.

Greer was among three Army spouses to provide testimony Tuesday on the living conditions for families in Fort Gordon housing. While the other spouses described similar conditions and experiences at Fort Gordon, Greer was the only one who now lives in Balfour Beatty-run, on-post housing. She said she expects to leave Fort Gordon soon, as her husband, Sgt. 1st Class Jeremy Greer, is in the process of retiring from the service.

As she spoke Tuesday in Washington, Greer said the floor in one of her bathrooms at their Fort Gordon home remained covered in liquid sewage from a leaky toilet that she said she has spent years trying to get maintenance officials to fix.

Last year, she told Ossoff, after repeatedly imploring maintenance staff to address mold in her home, she hired a third-party inspector to assess the problems in her house.

To our shock, we were told our home as well as our [heating, air condition and ventilation] system was completely infested with toxic mold, Greer said. He provided a written certification that said our home was unfit for human occupancy.

For two weeks, Greer and her family moved out of the house, even though they could not afford to pay for a hotel room. Eventually, after providing maintenance officials with the independent inspector's mold report, Balfour Beatty provided the family 10 days in a hotel room while they addressed the mold issues. Greer said they did not fully remedy the problems, and some mold remains to this day.

We told Balfour that the house was still unlivable, she said. "They disagreed with us, and they refuse to refund any rental payments and told us that we would pay penalties if we broke our lease. We felt we had no alternatives and stayed in the house.

Army officials who participated in the oversight session said they were disturbed by Greer and the other spouses' assertions about their living conditions.

I'm very, very sorry for the hardships these families have endured, said Rachel Jacobson, the assistant secretary of the Army for installations, energy and environment. What you've described today and what you have experienced is unacceptable. And we, the Army, at every level are committed to remedying this situation.

Jacobson said the Army has seen some improvements from Balfour Beatty and other companies responsible for running privatized, on-post housing in recent years. Nonetheless, she said she last year issued Balfour Beatty a notice of non-compliance with the terms of their lease for Fort Gordon housing, asserting the company had not done enough at the time to ensure the safety of Army families living there. Jacobson said the company has since complied with the issues cited in her notice and has delivered new plans for quality assurance and quality control for Fort Gordon housing.

She said top Army officials are much more aware of the problems plaguing on-post living quarters than they had been in recent decades. At Fort Gordon, for example, she said the Army has committed some $12 million for construction of new town home-style family housing and another $5.1 million for renovations of existing homes. The new housing will fall under Balfour Beattys administration.

The Army has hired nearly two dozen engineering specialists to oversee construction activities at Fort Gordon to ensure those projects are properly and safely completed to service standards.

Weve had a wakeup call, Jacobson said. So, this construction will be very closely supervised and monitored by Army personnel, and weve professionalized our own staff to be able to do that.

Ossoff pledged continued oversight on housing issues at Fort Gordon and other Georgia military installations, saying he worried the problems with housing could be a factor in the militarys recent recruiting downturn and could lead to problems retaining good troops in the service.

Im going to remain focused on this. Apparent signs of progress need to become real, specific, measurable progress that is felt by the families on this post, the senator said. When I return to hold another town hall with enlisted personnel [at Fort Gordon]  and Ill do it again later this year  I need to hear from them that their experience has changed in a meaningful way.
KYODO NEWS - Apr 18, 2023 - 22:42 | All, Japan

The confirmed death toll from the crash of a Japanese Self-Defense Forces helicopter rose to five Tuesday as a search continued for the missing in waters off Okinawa.

Three new deaths were confirmed on the same day, the SDF said. It had found the remains of five people and part of the Ground Self-Defense Force's UH-60JA helicopter on Sunday.

The chopper disappeared off the southern prefecture's Miyako Island with 10 aboard in early April.

On Tuesday, divers also found a sixth body in the waters around where the five were found, the SDF said.





Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno told a press conference that the government is looking into using private companies to recover the helicopter wreckage and find the remaining missing personnel.

The GSDF is working to quickly ascertain the identities of the recovered bodies. Among the personnel aboard was Lt. Gen. Yuichi Sakamoto, 55, commander of the GSDF's 8th Division based in Kumamoto Prefecture.

Speaking to reporters on Monday, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida vowed to do "everything I can to ensure the 10 personnel are returned to their families as soon as possible."

Divers found the five bodies and a section of the chopper at around 8:30 a.m. on Sunday on the ocean floor at a depth of 106 meters, according to the GSDF.

The deep-sea search and recovery of the dead is being conducted using a technique called saturation diving, which allows divers to work at great depths without the need to undergo regular decompression.

The helicopter is believed to have gone down after disappearing from radar about 10 minutes following takeoff from a base on Miyako Island on the afternoon of April 6.

The wreckage was found on the seabed about 6 kilometers north of Irabu Island, some 4 km north of where the aircraft was last detected.

Related coverage:

2 people from missing SDF chopper off Okinawa confirmed dead

Deep-sea search for missing SDF chopper paused again amid bad weather

Japan dismisses speculation of China link to SDF chopper accident
(Tribune News Service)  One of the U.S. Coast Guard's largest cutters held a change-of-command ceremony in Honolulu Harbor on Monday during a stop on its way to conduct operations in the Western Pacific.

One of the U.S. Coast Guard's largest cutters held a change-of-command ceremony in Honolulu Harbor on Monday during a stop on its way to conduct operations in the Western Pacific.

In a speech to the crew and dignitaries, Capt. Stephen Adler of the Legend-class cutter CGC Stratton reflected on how his crew responded to tsunamis that struck the Pacific after the eruption of an underwater volcano off Tonga in 2021, pulled into port in Papua New Guinea during a monsoon and got to enjoy Fiji's beaches as COVID-19 restrictions in the country lifted.

"Over my tenure, we've traveled from the far reaches of the South Pacific to the remote portions of the Arctic, " said Adler. "And now the ship is ready and prepared to sail into some of the most contested waters in the world : the South China Sea."

Adler, who has commanded the Stratton since May 2021, handed over the reins of the large vessel to Capt. Brian Krautler to take on a new role as the Coast Guard's chief trial judge. Stratton's westward voyage comes amid growing concerns about illegal fishing and heightened geopolitical tension in the Pacific region.

In 2020 the Coast Guard said illegal, unregulated and unreported fishingor IUUhad surpassed piracy as the world's greatest maritime security threat. The service warned that rampant overfishing is causing environmental and economic devastation to coastal communities that depend on fishing for food and employment.

"(Fisheries are ) probably the biggest resource right now on the planet that isn't being managed as well as it could be, " said Adler.

The officer said the Coast Guard's Legend-class cutters are ideal for taking on that challenge. The 418-foot-long vessels operated by a crew of up to 150 Coast Guardsmen have a helipad and are equipped with an onboard Scan Eagle drone that allows them to conduct surveillance over wide expanse of the ocean.

"We bring everything to that fight. We are the largest, most capable cutter, " said Adler, adding that it is "able to fuse information and intelligence at a higher level, to bring that all together to find the different types of targets that you're looking for that may be illegally fishing or, you know, not reporting what they are fishing."

The Coast Guard has played an increasingly important role in America's Pacific strategy as the U.S. competes with China for influence. Unlike the Navy, the Coast Guard has law enforcement authorities that in some cases allows it to board and inspect vessels suspected of illegal activity on the high seas, including illegal fishing.

It also can operate in foreign countries through ship rider agreements, which bring local officials onto the U.S. Coast Guard cutters to direct inspections and other operations. Many Pacific island nations lack navies or coast guards of their own to defend their waters and conduct search-and-rescue missions, and look to countries like the U.S. to help.

"We are recognized internationally for excellence in law enforcement, fisheries, search and rescue, real spill response environment, " said Krautler. "Our international partners see that, and they want help in partnering with us to do those missions."

In Honolulu Harbor, Rear Adm. Matthew Sibley, deputy commander of U.S. Coast Guard Pacific Area, said, "We are changing leadership onboard Stratton, but the men and women in this command will continue to save lives, protect the environment, enforce our laws and defend our nation." He told the crew, "You did all of this in the shadow of increased strategic competition in the region."

While the Coast Guard's movements westward are welcomed by many countries, others  particularly China  have watched with suspicion.

The South China Sea is a critical waterway through which more than a third of all international trade travels. It's also a hotly disputed territory, with China embroiled in maritime territorial and navigation rights with neighboring countries. Beijing considers almost the entire region its exclusive sovereign territory despite a 2016 international court ruling in favor of the Philippines that rejected almost all of China's territorial claims.

Disputes over fishing have featured prominently in these spats. Once one of the world's plentiful fishing grounds, industrial fishing has ravaged the South China Sea's fisheries. China's fishing fleet, which is the world's largest and the recipient of generous government subsidies, has been criticized for its aggressive behavior in the region, with allegations that it regularly attacks and harasses fishermen from other countries.

Chinese industrial fishing vessels are often larger than those from neighboring countries. The Chinese navy and coast guard also have been accused of moving into other countries' maritime territory and pushing out fishermen. Philippine food security advocacy group Tugon Kabu hayan estimated in 2021 that fishermen in the Philippines had lost out on at least 7.9 million pounds of fish from Chinese ships staking out their traditional fishing grounds.

But these disputes are about more than the fish.

The Chinese government has been accused of using ostensibly civilian vessels like fishing boats and research vessels in support of its navy. Several countries have accused these so-called "maritime militias " of staking out disputed territoriesincluding ones with possible undersea oil depositsharassing mariners and conducting surveillance missions in coordination with military vessels. The Chinese military also has built bases on disputed islands and reefs to assert its claims.

While many governments in the Pacific are eager to work with the U.S. to send a message to China, some are wary of America's increased interest in their region.

The National Federation of Small Fisherfolk Organizations in the Philippines said in a February Twitter post in response to an expanded basing agreement signed between Washington and Manila that "our territorial waters in the West Philippine Sea are already militarized by China ; the last thing that Fili pino fishers want is an expansion of U.S. military bases at the further expense of our sovereign rights and territorial integrity."

The Stratton, which is home-ported in Alameda, Calif., is one the Coast Guard's nine Legend-class cutters. Two of them, CGC Kimball and CGC Midgett, are ported in Honolulu. Kimball is currently dry-docked at Pacific Shipyards International in Honolulu Harbor for its first maintenance period since it first arrived in Hawaii in 2018.

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CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa  Japanese police say a U.S. Marine was driving under the influence of alcohol early Monday when his motorcycle crashed into a taxi on Okinawa.

Cpl. Lawson Little, 23, an administrative specialist with Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron 1 at Camp Foster, was arrested at 7:27 a.m. after a collision on Route 58 in Urasoe city, a spokesman for the Okinawa prefectural police told Stars and Stripes by phone Tuesday.

The Georgia resident was treated for a broken left wrist prior to his arrest and was still in custody Tuesday at the Urasoe police station, the spokesman said.

A breath test measured Littles blood-alcohol content at 0.12%, four times Japans legal driving limit of 0.03%, the spokesman said. By comparison, all 50 U.S. states have set 0.08% as the legal limit for driving under the influence or driving while impaired.

Some government spokespeople in Japan are required to speak to the media only on condition of anonymity.

Little was southbound on his Honda CBR when he attempted a right turn across the northbound lane at 5:46 a.m. and struck the cab traveling in the opposite direction, the police spokesman said. The taxis only occupant, a 60-year-old man, was uninjured.

Police at the scene smelled alcohol on Littles breath, the spokesman said.

Little told police his last drink was at least 24 hours prior to the incident, the spokesman said. Police plan to send the case to prosecutors for charges on Tuesday.

Little, a Marine for nearly four years, arrived in Okinawa almost three years ago, Maj. Rob Martins, a spokesman for the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, said in an email Tuesday.

Martins said the allegations are unbecoming of Marine Corps standards and the service is cooperating with local authorities.
U.S. Marines crossed the Norwegian border into Sweden on Tuesday to join one of Scandinavias largest military drills in decades, involving troops from more than a dozen countries.

Swedish Brig. Gen. Stefan Andersson announced on Twitter the arrival of the Marines as part of the Aurora 23 exercise, which is focused on countering a large-scale attack on the prospective NATO member.

The Marines arrived as part of the Aurora 23 exercise, which is focused on countering a large-scale attack on the prospective NATO member, a Swedish military statement said Tuesday.

Aurora 23 will be the largest national exercise of its kind in more than 25 years, the Swedish military said.

Some 26,000 troops from 14 countries are taking part in maneuvers on land, at sea and in the air. Service members from the U.S., Britain and Germany are among those taking part. It wasnt announced Tuesday what U.S. units were taking part.

The drills come amid Swedens ongoing push to join NATO, which earlier this month welcomed neighboring Finland as the security pacts 31st member.

The historic decision was brought on by last years Russian invasion of Ukraine, which prompted the Nordic countries to seek NATO membership.

Initially, Sweden and Finland aimed to join the alliance simultaneously, but opposition from Turkey scuttled Stockholms hopes for a speedy accession.

The process has stalled over Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogans allegations that Sweden has given refuge to Kurdish militants whom Ankara wants extradited.

Still, NATO officials say theyre confident that the impasse will be resolved and that Sweden will soon join the alliance.

In the meantime, Aurora 23 reinforces the close partnership between Sweden and allied militaries even as full NATO membership remains elusive.

The drills will be carried out on large swaths of Swedish territory until May 11, the Swedish military statement said.
The biennial military exercise by U.S. and Australian forces returns to pre-pandemic scale this year with more than twice the troops than took part two years ago, the Australian government announced recently.

Talisman Sabre is scheduled to draw approximately 30,000 personnel, close to the usual complement that last participated in 2019. The exercise continued in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic, but organizers reduced troop numbers to about 17,000.

This years event will run from July 22 to Aug. 4, according to a Sunday statement by Australian Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles office.

Talisman Sabre is the largest bilateral combined training activity between the Australian Defence Force and United States military, reflecting the closeness of our Alliance, the statement said.

This years exercise will be the largest in its geographic span and international involvement, Australian army Brig. Damian Hill, the exercise director, said in the statement.

Training is scheduled across the country in Queensland, Western Australia, the Northern Territory and New South Wales.

Perth, Western Australia, is just under 2,700 miles from Brisbane, Queensland, on the countrys east coast, or about the distance from New York to Los Angeles.

This years exercise will demonstrate our ability to receive large volumes of personnel and equipment into Australia from across the Indo-Pacific and stage, integrate and move them forward into the large exercise area, Hill said.

Troops from the United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, France, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, Fiji, Tonga and Papua New Guinea will also participate. Personnel from the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand will attend as observers, the statement said.

The U.S. and Australia have been formal allies, along with New Zealand, since 1951, when the three signed the ANZUS Security Treaty. Australia is also a large purchaser of U.S. arms, more than $27 billion worth  $1.71 billion in fiscal year 2020 alone  according to the State Department website.

In 2021, a U.S. expeditionary strike group led by USS America, the amphibious assault ship based at Sasebo Naval Base, Japan, joined Talisman Sabre along with 70 fixed-wing aircraft and 50 helicopters.

Troops from the U.S. Armys 38th Air Defense Artillery Brigade from Sagami General Depot, Japan, fired a Patriot missile at a pair of drone targets from Shoalwater Bay, Queensland, during the exercise.

This year, troops will practice large-scale logistics, multidomain firepower, land combat, amphibious landings and air operations, the statement said.

The number of U.S. troops headed to the exercise isnt available yet but every service will take part, including the Coast Guard, Maj. Jimmy Sheehan, a U.S. Army Pacific spokesman, said in an email Tuesday to Stars and Stripes.

Talisman Sabre is a critical component for Operation Pathways, a campaign of exercises, experiments and security activities across the Indo-Pacific, he said. Operation Pathways allows the Army to rehearse movement and employment of land forces over extended distances and diverse terrain.

The sheer magnitude of forces, equipment and vehicles that are required to move vast distances in order to set the theatre, enables training opportunities to build strategic readiness for U.S. forces, U.S. Army Pacific deputy chief of staff Brig. Gen. James Bartholomees said in comments emailed by Sheehan.
The Navys newest  and last  Freedom-class littoral combat ship has come a step closer to fleet service, a bittersweet milestone for a collection of vessels once hailed for their potential.

The future USS Cleveland, the fourth Navy ship to bear the name of the iconic Ohio city, was christened Saturday in Marinette, Wis., according to a post on the official Facebook page of the USS Cleveland Legacy Foundation.

The ship entered the Menominee River broadside, a launch method that also had its swan song Saturday at Fincantieri Marinette Marine, the Navy said in a statement a day before the ceremony.

Future launches there will use a system that lifts and lowers a ship vertically, according to the statement.

Cleveland, the 16th Freedom-class vessel, is set to be delivered to the Navy in 2024 and commissioned later that year, according to information on the foundations website.

Littoral combat ships are fast, nimble vessels prized for their abilities in coastal areas and the open ocean, but the Freedom variant quickly was beset by propulsion problems and other costly issues.

As a result, the Navy last year proposed mothballing nine Freedom-class ships well ahead of their end-of-service dates. Ultimately, five of the ships were saved.

Another variety of littoral combat ship, the Independence class, also has experienced problems including cracks in the hulls of at least six vessels.

There are about 13 Independence-class ships in service and four others in various preparatory stages, according to the Navys website.

The latest Independence-class littoral combat ship, USS Santa Barbara, was commissioned earlier this month. Another, USS Canberra, is slated for commissioning this summer.

But the service now is prioritizing production of the Constellation-class frigate, which it says delivers a more powerful punch.

Previous ships bearing the name Cleveland were a World War I cruiser, a World War II light cruiser and a Vietnam War-era amphibious transport dock that was decommissioned in 2011, according to the Navy.

The ships sponsor is Robyn Modly, wife of former acting secretary of the Navy and Cleveland native Thomas Modly, the Navy said.
WASHINGTON  Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro clashed with senators Tuesday over plans to retire several amphibious warships and not replace them, which would result in the service having fewer of the ships than is required by federal law.

This is a big issue, and right now the secretary of the Navy ignoring the Congress of the United States is unacceptable, Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, said of the Navys shipbuilding plans and recent decisions made by Del Toro.

The services $255 billion budget request for fiscal 2024, released last month, proposes to decommission several amphibious warfare ships  but it includes no funding for vessels to replace them. The Navys 30-year shipbuilding plan states the service is doing a cost and capability study on amphibious ships, and that should determine when replacements will be built.

The Navy must have not less than 31 operational amphibious warfare ships to be at full strength, according to the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act, which sets annual spending priorities for the Pentagon. Amphibious warfare ships include dock landing vessels and assault ships that can swiftly deliver Marines and equipment on land during an assault from the sea. The Navy meets the requirement now, but it wont if it succeeds in retiring three of the ships next year.

We are requesting the divestment of USS Germantown, USS Gunston Hall and USS Tortuga, three amphibious ships that are all at or over 34 years of service and in unsatisfactory material condition, Del Toro said at Tuesdays hearing. We recognize this request brings us below the 31 amphibious ships we are required to maintain. [We] are committed to ensuring we meet this requirement and doing so in a timely manner but with a capable, sustainable mix of ship classes that will support our Marines and sailors for decades to come.

Last year, Del Toro ordered a strategic pause on new amphibious warships so the cost and capability study could be completed. The move is part of the Navys efforts to recalibrate and modernize its capabilities. The 30-year shipbuilding plan includes no San Antonio-class amphibious ships, which were originally intended to replace Whidbey Island-class vessels such as the soon-to-be-retired Germantown, Gunston Hall and Tortuga.

Sen. Roger Wicker of Mississippi, the top Republican on the committee, said that hes concerned about retiring amphibious ships with no replacements and called the Navys budget request anemic. He slammed the Navy leaders and said they have failed yet again to build a Navy fleet thats capable of  growing strong enough to deter near-term threats.

Later, Sullivan expressed agitation for Del Toros decision to pause construction of amphibious ships and put the fleet on a path in the coming years to fall below the congressional minimum.

We told you what to do, and you need to do it, Sullivan said. Youre violating the law right now, and your shipbuilding plan looks to say, Hey, were going to violate the law for the next 30 years. 

It is my intent to follow the law, Del Toro answered. Hopefully by the time of the presidents [2025] budget submission  I will look at that as an option.

Its not an option for you, Mr. Secretary, Sullivan shot back. You are ignoring us. Worse, youre ignoring the law.

Gen. David Berger, the Marine Corps commandant, said hes concerned about readiness if the Navy doesnt have at least 31 amphibious ships.

If something happened in Taiwan  time matters, he said. Most of the cases, you need a seaborne force. And you need Marines that can project power ashore.

Berger said the amphibious ships are important because theyre also a sign of commitment to U.S. allies around the world, and a signal of strength to potential adversaries such as China and Russia.

When the prime minister and minister of defense for Sweden wanted to send a clear signal to Russia regarding Swedens intention to join NATO, they did so by making a statement on the flight deck of the USS Kearsarge  a Wasp-class amphibious assault ship, Berger said.

Del Toro and Berger met later Tuesday with the Senate committee in closed session to share classified information. At one point during the open hearing, Sullivan demanded Del Toro come back to the Senate soon with an answer on how youre going to fix this.

The Navys cost and capability study on amphibious ships is expected to be released in June, the Navy said.
The U.S. Army has a recruiting problem. The Army only added 40% of the soldiers it needed in 2022 and the secretary of the Army made new enlistments her number one priority for 2023. Her sense of urgency is embodied in the resurrection of the Be All You Can Be campaign, which feels like a Hail Mary after years of lucrative marketing contracts.

The brand simply does not appeal to young Americans. Army leaders attribute their shortfalls to American obesity and declining aptitude and to the most challenging labor market since the Army became all-volunteer in 1973. This personnel crisis is poorly timed as expected troop cuts in Europe were reversed and the U.S. attempts to deter a Chinese invasion of Taiwan.

If the recruiting shortfall continues, the Army will eventually do what it has always done to fill its ranks. It will rely on immigrants.

In the buildup to World War II, for instance, Congress exempted non-citizen soldiers from most naturalization requirements, to include proof of lawful entry. And both Congress and the executive branch have a more recent record of naturalizing immigrants in return for military service. Over 150,000 non-citizens were naturalized after they volunteered to fight in the post-9/11 wars.

During these recent wars, the Army embraced an innovative program that recruited foreign doctors and those with critical language skills, as the Army had an unmet demand for these skill sets. The Military Accessions Vital to the National Interest program, known as MAVNI, selected skilled non-citizen soldiers eager to fight for the American dream, including those without legal permanent residence.

In addition to filling critical jobs like a rifleman or driver, the cultural competencies of immigrants enhance the tactical Army and save American lives. I saw this firsthand while deployed on a counterterrorism mission in Africa.

A Nigerian-born American soldier opened doors for my Special Forces detachment in the Nigerian militarys hierarchy. Those doors were otherwise closed to me or any other white American officer. Our success was a result of having that soldier on our team. The Army can have that type of instant rapport anywhere in the world by enlisting non-citizen soldiers.

The Army has always been strengthened by immigrants. Immigrant volunteers are smart, fit and eager to fight, unlike so many of their contemporary American counterparts.

Despite all of this, divisive immigration politics have led the Pentagon to shoot itself in the foot by making the military unwelcoming to the immigrants it has long relied on, and now needs.

Previously, Pentagon polices were in place to protect its volunteers from draconian immigration laws with the shield of citizenship. For instance, prior to 2017 non-citizens who enlisted in the Army were greeted by a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services field office at Basic Training to process naturalization applications. But USCIS was abruptly removed from Basic Training in 2017 when the Pentagon caved to the Trump administrations hard line on immigration. As a result, non-citizen soldiers often leave Basic Training without the citizenship their recruiters likely promised.

Moreover, the Department of Defense rescinded the MAVNI program, added a 180-day requirement before a soldier could apply for naturalization, and screened out soldiers with arbitrary justifications.

Even getting the simple certification of service required for expedited military naturalization has been deliberately obstructed. Now, a colonels signature is required. This is a needless rule. Certifying service is a straightforward matter that any unit administrative clerk can accomplish. Such seemingly innocuous clerical requirements have real consequences  in the wake of this policy, there was a whopping 78% drop in military naturalizations from 2017 to 2018.

To add insult to injury, soldiers who miss out on citizenship during their service, including those who served in combat, are too often deported. If theres a greater disincentive to enlisting than the risk of being deported from the country youve risked your life for, I cant think of one.

Instead of these bureaucratic barriers, the Army needs to support its immigrant soldiers in obtaining citizenship every step of the way.

And there are simple steps the Army can take now. It should start by bringing Basic Training naturalizations back, as the Navy has recently done. The Army should also request that USCIS accept an administrative certification of military service in lieu of the often unattainable brigade commanders signature. Critically, the Army should advocate for the reinstitution of the MAVNI program, so that it can welcome all the qualified people it needs. Finally, the Army should protect its veterans from the tragic irony of deportation.

To be all it can be, the Army needs to fully open its doors to the immigrants eager to serve and deliver on its promise of citizenship. Its not only the right thing to do  for the Army, its a matter of self-preservation.

Matt Sardo is a student in Berkeley Laws Veterans Law Practicum at the University of California, Berkeley. He is also an Army ROTC instructor at the university and a board director for the Irregular Warfare Initiative. He served as an infantryman and a Green Beret before law school. He deployed to Afghanistan with the 10th Mountain Division and Northwest Africa with 3rd Special Forces Group. The views expressed here are those of the author and do not reflect the official position of the U.S. Army Reserve, the Department of the Army, or the Department of Defense.
KHARTOUM, Sudan  Fighting raged in Sudan on Tuesday hours after an internationally brokered truce was supposed to have come into effect, as forces loyal to dueling generals battled for key locations in the capital and accused each other of violating the cease-fire.

The humanitarian truce came after days of intense efforts by top diplomats on four continents and had raised hopes of sparing Africas third largest country from civil war. But each side still appeared determined to vanquish the other, despite the suffering of millions of civilians trapped by the fighting.

Residents said they still heard gunfire and explosions in different parts of the capital, Khartoum, particularly around the militarys headquarters and the Republican Palace. They said few people had ventured out, though there were crowds outside some bakeries.

The fighting remains underway, Atiya Abdulla Atiya of the Sudan Doctors Syndicate told The Associated Press. We are hearing constant gunfire.

Sudanese in the capital and in other cities have been hiding in their homes, caught in the crossfire as rival forces pounded residential areas with artillery and airstrikes and engaged in gunbattles outside. Residents say dead bodies in the streets are unreachable because of clashes, with the toll likely to be far higher than the 185 dead reported by the U.N. since fighting began Saturday.

The conflict between the armed forces, led by Gen. Abdel Fattah Burhan, and a paramilitary group known as the Rapid Support Forces, led by Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, has once again derailed Sudans transition to democratic rule after decades of dictatorship and civil war.

Pro-democracy groups and political parties had recently reached an agreement with the two generals  who jointly led a 2021 coup  but it was never signed and is now in tatters.

The RSF immediately accused the military of violating the cease-fire after it came into effect at 6 p.m. local time (1600 GMT). The army said the rebellious militia continued its attacks around the military headquarters and launched a failed attack on a military base to the south.

Atiya said the Fadil Hospital in Khartoum was hit by shelling after the truce took effect, damaging a medical gas pipeline and water systems. Its one of at least 12 hospitals in and around the capital that have been forced to shut down because of the fighting, out of a total of around 20.

The U.S. Embassy said late Tuesday that there has been ongoing fighting in Khartoum and surrounding areas, and advised Americans in Sudan to shelter in place. It said there were no immediate plans for a government-coordinated evacuation.

Over the past day, fighters in Khartoum attacked a U.S. Embassy convoy and stormed the home of the EU envoy to Sudan, though neither attack caused casualties. The convoy of clearly marked U.S. Embassy vehicles was attacked Monday, and preliminary reports link the assailants to the RSF, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters.

Blinken spoke by phone late Monday separately with both generals, seeking a 24-hour halt in fighting as a foundation for a longer truce and return to negotiations. Egypt, which backs the Sudanese military, and Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, which have close ties to the RSF, have also been calling on all sides to stand down.

Dagalo said in a series of tweets Tuesday that he had approved a 24-hour humanitarian truce after speaking to Blinken. The military initially said the coming hours would bring the crushing defeat of the RSF and only publicly committed to the truce after it began.

Shortly before the start of the cease-fire, a coalition of political parties and pro-democracy groups said it received positive positions from leaders of the military and the RSF on the daylong humanitarian pause. It said in a statement that discussions were underway to solidify that truce.

More tanks and armored vehicles belonging to the military rolled into Khartoum early Tuesday, heading toward the militarys headquarters and the Republican Palace, residents said. During the night, fighter jets swooped overhead and anti-aircraft fire lit up the sky.

Each side already has tens of thousands of troops distributed around Khartoum and the city of Omdurman on the opposite bank of the Nile River. Terrified residents trapped in their homes for days have hoped for a halt long enough at least to get supplies or move to safer areas. The fighting erupted suddenly at the start of the last week of the Islamic holy month of fasting, Ramadan.

We are trying to take advantage of Ramadan to try to continue our faith and prayer, said Mohammed Al Faki, one of 89 students and staffers trapped in the engineering building at Khartoum University. We are trying to help each other stay patient until this crisis is over.

One student was killed by a sniper, he said, and they buried his body on the campus. The students and staff have had to go out for supplies occasionally, risking harassment by RSF fighters battling troops nearby, he said.

They are attacking us on the streets. They are looting. If you are walking, they will take even your phone from you in the street, the 19-year-old student said of the RSF.

U.N. figures have put the toll from fighting at more than 185 dead and 1,800 wounded, without providing a breakdown of civilians and combatants. The Sudan Doctors Syndicate said Tuesday that at least 144 civilians were killed and more than 1,400 wounded but that many dead could still not be reached to be counted.

Videos posted online Tuesday showed Souq al-Bahri, a large outdoor market in northern Khartoum, in flames from nearby clashes. Satellite images from Maxar Technologies taken Monday showed damage across Khartoum, including to security service buildings. Tanks stood guard at a bridge over the White Nile River and other locations.

Satellite images from Planet Labs PBC, also taken Monday, showed some 20 damaged civilian and military aircraft at Khartoum International Airport, which has a military section. Some had been completely destroyed, with one still belching smoke. At the El Obeid and Merowe air bases, north and south of Khartoum, several fighter jets were among the destroyed aircraft.

The European Unions foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, tweeted Monday that the EU ambassador to Sudan was assaulted in his own residency, without providing further details.

A Western diplomat in Cairo said the residence was ransacked by armed men in RSF uniforms. No one was hurt but the armed men stole several items, said the diplomat, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to talk to the media.

Early on Sunday, the Norwegian ambassadors residence was hit by a shell, causing damage but no injuries, Norwegian Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt said.

The fighting is the latest chapter in Sudans turmoil since a popular uprising four years ago helped depose long-time autocrat Omar al-Bashir.

Burhan and Dagalo jointly orchestrated an October 2021 coup, derailing efforts to enshrine a civilian government. Both generals have a long history of human rights abuses, and their forces have cracked down on pro-democracy activists.

Under international pressure, Burhan and Dagalo recently agreed to a framework agreement with political parties and pro-democracy groups. But the signing was repeatedly delayed as tensions rose over the integration of the RSF into the armed forces and the future chain of command  tensions that exploded into violence Saturday.

Magdy reported from Cairo. Associated Press writers Jon Gambrell in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and Matthew Lee in Karuizawa, Japan, contributed to this report.
CAMP FOSTER, Okinawa  Search parties recovered two more bodies Monday from the submerged wreckage of a Japanese military helicopter that crashed in the East China Sea nearly two weeks ago with 10 aboard, including a lieutenant general.

Four victims remains have been brought up since Sunday from the site in 350 feet of water just offshore of Irabu Island, southwest of Okinawa. The UH-60JA Black Hawk of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force disappeared from radar at 3:56 p.m. April 6 during a reconnaissance flight 11 miles northwest of Miyako Airport.

Japanese divers recovered one body Monday morning and the other several hours later, a Japan Ground Self-Defense Force spokesman told Stars and Stripes by phone Tuesday. Japanese authorities have yet to identify any of the recovered bodies.

Just one body remains in a section of the Black Hawk's fuselage discovered Sunday morning, the spokesman said. The remaining five individuals aboard the helicopter are unaccounted for.

The Black Hawk was on a reconnaissance flight 11 miles northwest of Miyako Airport when it went down with a mixed crew aboard, including Lt. Gen. Yuichi Sakamoto, commander of the Ground Self-Defense Forces 8th Division; five members of the divisions headquarters staff; four members of the Air Self-Defense Forces 8th Wing; and a member of Camp Miyakos security force.

Sakamoto, 55, was appointed division commander March 31. He previously served as commander of the 12th Brigade.

The remains were carried by helicopter to an Air Self-Defense Force base on Miyako Island where the deaths were confirmed at 11 a.m. Tuesday, according to a Ground Self-Defense Force statement that day.

Five surveillance aircraft, seven Japanese navy and coast guard vessels and 360 personnel continued the search Tuesday for the remaining five crew members and missing parts of the Black Hawk, the spokesman said. Japanese navy divers also remain active in the area.

Some government spokespeople in Japan are required to speak to the media only on condition of anonymity.

Japans coast guard on Tuesday introduced a hydrographic survey vessel, the Heiyo, to the search. The vessels are used to survey seafloor topography, observe ocean currents and tides and investigate marine pollution.

Japans Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno on Tuesday said that search efforts continue around the clock.

We will work hard to pull out all the five members we found and to find the other five missing members, and reunite them with their families, he said in Tokyo. Conversations were underway to potentially employ private companies to aid in the search effort, he added.

The Black Hawk had flown to Miyako from its base on Kyushu, the southernmost of Japans four main islands, and crashed 10 minutes after taking off from Miyako Airport.

The crew last radioed air traffic controllers about two minutes before the helicopter disappeared from radar but they said nothing about in-flight emergencies.

A section of the fuselage with several bodies was discovered around 10 p.m. Thursday using sonar and underwater cameras, a Ground Self-Defense Force spokeswoman said Friday. A remotely operated underwater vehicle launched the next day revealed severe damage to the aircraft section.

Rough seas kept divers from the area until Sunday, a Joint Staff spokesman said by phone that day. Two bodies were recovered later that day.

More than 20 pieces of the helicopter have been found, including portions of the nose, rotor blade and fuel tank. The aircrafts flight recorder has not been found.
By Yuki Yamaguchi, KYODO NEWS - Apr 18, 2023 - 20:31 | All, Japan, World

Taiwan's electronics giant Foxconn is considering expanding its electric vehicle output globally, setting up production sites where there is demand, the company's newly appointed EV business chief said recently.

"We will do on-site production in principle. We are not thinking of producing at a specific site and shipping products all over the world," Jun Seki, a 61-year-old former Nissan Motor Co. executive, said in an interview with Kyodo News.

Seki, appointed to his current post in February, said India and Japan are among the countries Foxconn is considering entering, adding the company is still undecided on its target markets.

Foxconn, formally known as Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., has EV production sites in Taiwan and the United States, including the one in Ohio it acquired from EV startup Lordstown Motors Corp. It also has plans to build a factory in Thailand.

One of Apple Inc.'s main suppliers, Foxconn booked sales of 6.6 trillion New Taiwan dollars ($217 billion) last year. In recent years, it has ventured into the EV business to diversify its revenue source, aiming to take a global market share of 5 percent in the sector by 2025.

The company is focusing on contract manufacturing, taking orders from existing automakers and mass-producing cars on their behalf, just like it makes electronic devices for other manufacturers.

As more companies from other sectors have been entering the automotive industry, Foxconn has received inquiries from firms such as oil producers and steelmakers interested in selling their own EVs, he added.

Foxconn, which still offers a limited number of EV models, is currently producing all-electric buses and plans to deliver battery-driven sport utility vehicles to a Taiwanese customer as early as this year.

The company aims to offer inexpensive cars to tap demand from consumers who cannot afford existing electric vehicles. It will utilize its know-how to lower costs it acquired through electronics manufacturing, Seki said.

"(Current) EVs are too expensive and inconvenient. If these problems are solved, people will shift to EVs," he said, while also adding he hopes to launch an EV priced at around 1 million yen ($7,439).

All-electric vehicles are more expensive than gasoline-powered cars due mainly to costly batteries and state-of-the-art technology such as advanced self-driving. Foxconn will keep its products simple to lower the cost, he said.

"We won't add anything unnecessary to our cars," Seki said.

Seki, who started his career at Nissan in 1986, became vice chief operating officer, the third highest ranking official at the Japanese automaker, in 2019 before joining electric motor maker Nidec Corp. in 2020.

He subsequently became CEO of the company but was demoted to chief operating officer in 2022. He left Nidec shortly after that.

Foxconn announced in January this year that it would welcome Seki as chief strategy officer for electric vehicles.

Related coverage:

Nissan accepts resignation of recently appointed No. 3 exec
The 25-year treason sentence imposed on prominent Russian opposition figure Vladimir Kara-Murza on Monday was a particularly severe show of Russian authorities' intensifying intolerance for criticism of the war in Ukraine and other dissenting opinions.

Under President Vladimir Putin, Russia for years has been closing in on those who challenge the Kremlin, arresting countless protesters, cracking down on independent news media and adding inconvenient organizations to its register of "foreign agents."

The hostility to opposition increased within days of Russia's February 2022 invasion of Ukraine, when it adopted a law criminalizing the spreading of "false information" about its military.

The charges against Kara-Murza, who has been behind bars since his arrest a year ago, stem from his March 2022 speech to the Arizona House of Representatives in which he denounced Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Here is a look at other notable cases of imprisoned opposition figures:

ALEXEI NAVALNY

The most persistent and inventive critic of Vladimir Putin's Kremlin, Navalny has been in prison for more than two years but gained new visibility this spring when a documentary about him won an Academy Award.

A lawyer by training, he first came to note by publishing investigations of Russian companies' corruption, and the work expanded into a broad opposition portfolio. He repeatedly served jail terms for organizing protest demonstrations that reached scores of cities across the country. He also was twice convicted of embezzlement, but those sentences were suspended.

In 2020, Navalny became severely ill and fell into a coma while visiting a Siberian city. He was airlifted to Germany in critical condition and found to have been poisoned with a nerve agent. During his months of recovery, he released the recording of a call he said he made to an alleged member of a group of officers of the Federal Security Service who purportedly carried out the poisoning

After that, authorities said his recuperation in Germany violated the terms of his suspended sentence. Nonetheless, Navalny returned to Moscow in January 2021, where he was arrested at the airport. He was sentenced to 2 years in prison, and last year was convicted of other charges and given another nine-year term.

Last week, a U.S.-based spokeswoman for his anticorruption foundation said Navalny is seriously ill in prison and that poisoning is suspected.

ILYA YASHIN

One of the few well-known Kremlin critics to have stayed in Russia after the start of the Ukraine war, Yashin was arrested in June while walking in a Moscow park and was sentenced to 8 years in prison on a conviction of spreading false information about Russian soldiers.

The charge stemmed from a livestream on YouTube in which he talked about civilians killed in the Kyiv suburb of Bucha. After Russian forces withdrew from the area in March 2022, hundreds of corpses were found in the town, including some with their hands bound behind their backs and apparently executed.

ALEXEI MOSKALYOV

Moskalyov was not a well-known figure, just a 54-year-old single father of a 13-year-old daughter in a provincial town. But after his daughter refused to participate in a patriotic class at school and made a drawing reading "Glory to Ukraine," Moskalyov was investigated by police and found to have made social media posts critical of the war.

He was sentenced to two years in prison, but fled house arrest hours before the sentence was handed down. He was arrested in neighboring Belarus and extradited to Russia.

ALEXEI GORINOV

Gorinov, a member of a Moscow municipal council, was the first person to be sentenced to prison under the law penalizing the spread of "false information" about Russian troops. He was arrested a year ago after criticizing Russia's military actions in Ukraine at a municipal council meeting.

A video available on YouTube shows him voicing skepticism about holding a planned children's art competition in his constituency while "every day children are dying" in Ukraine.

He was sentenced to seven years.

ANDREI PIVOVAROV

Just days after the Open Russia opposition group that he headed disbanded in 2021 when authorities declared it an "undesirable" organization, Pivovarov was pulled off a Warsaw-bound airliner that was about to leave St. Petersburg. He was convicted last year of sponsoring a local candidate on behalf of an undesirable organization and sentenced to four years.
Egypt paused a plan to secretly supply rockets to Russia last month following talks with senior U.S. officials and instead decided to produce artillery ammunition for Ukraine, according to five leaked U.S. intelligence documents that have not been previously reported.

The Post last week reported on another document that exposed a covert scheme by Egyptian President Abdel Fatah El-Sisi in February to provide Russia with up to 40,000 122mm Sakr-45 rockets, which can be used in Russian multiple-launch rocket launchers. Sisi instructed his subordinates to keep the project secret to avoid problems with the West, the document said.

But the new documents, which The Washington Post obtained from a trove of material allegedly posted on Discord by a member of the Massachusetts Air National Guard, appear to show Sisi in early March backing away from plans to supply Moscow, a move that would have represented a major rebuke to Cairos most generous Western ally, the United States.

Egypt, though it has a long-standing diplomatic and military relationship with Russia, has for decades been a principal American ally in the Middle East and receives more than $1 billion a year in U.S. military aid.

In an apparent diplomatic win for the Biden administration, a new leaked document stated that Egypt shelved the Moscow deal and approved selling 152mm and 155mm artillery rounds to the United States for transfer to Ukraine.

Washington has sought to enlist new supporters  and desperately needed ammunition  for Kyivs fight against Russian forces. Egypt intended to use its capacity to produce weapons for Ukraine as leverage to obtain advanced U.S. military items, the document said.

Taken together, the documents provide new insight into the Biden administrations quiet but high-stakes diplomacy with countries that have sought to stay on the margins of Washingtons intensifying standoff with Moscow. They also show how great power competition has allowed Egypt to seek new advantages as its relationship with the United States grows less crucial.

The mere fact of competition creates openings for easy wins with the U.S., and you can imagine that this will be to the detriment of the democracy and human rights agenda, said Michael Hanna, U.S. program director at the International Crisis Group.

The documents do not indicate whether Cairo later revived the Moscow plan or whether it has yet supplied the United States with the ammunition for Ukraine.

The Post earlier reported that Egypt has denied producing rockets for Russia, and a U.S. government official, speaking on the condition of anonymity to address sensitive information, told The Post there was no indication Egypt had executed the plan.

Presented with the new documents, a spokesman for the Egyptian Foreign Ministry did not respond to a request for comment on the leaked materials. After the initial report on Russian rocket production, Egyptian state-run media reported that officials denied the claim, saying it had no basis in truth.

A senior Biden administration official said, Egypt is a close partner and we are regularly engaged with its leadership on a host of regional and global issues.

The United States faces challenges ramping up its own production of artillery shells and other items needed in Ukraine and has sought help from partner nations worldwide in advance of what U.S. officials predict will be challenging spring fighting season. Conversely, Washington has slapped sanctions on its adversary Iran over shipments of arms to Russia and issued warnings to China against doing the same.

One Western ambassador in Cairo said the leaks suggest Egypt underestimated the U.S. response to a possible arms supply to Russia and wanted to maximize their benefit from both sides.

The top-secret documents  informed in part by signals intelligence, or eavesdropping  detail a month of intelligence reports from early February to early March and were intended for top Pentagon officials.

The first, dated Feb. 17, reports that Egypt took steps in late January and early February to secretly supply rockets to Russia, including setting a price and making plans for obtaining brass to make the rockets. In a conversation on Jan. 31, Minister of State for Military Production Mohamed Salah al-Din told Sisi that he advised Russian delegates that their agreed price of $1,100 per unit could rise to $1,500 due to a potential increase in brass prices. The Russians were ready to buy anything, he told Sisi. The Egyptian president also told Salah al-Din, according to the document, to request specialized equipment from Russia to improve the accuracy of the rockets or the quality of the Egyptian factories making them.

A second and undated document, likely from mid-February, states that Egypt began creating a rocket production line for the Russian military. Russian delegates had requested to purchase 15,000 rockets at the $1,100 unit price, the document states, but Sisi ordered subordinates to purchase the necessary materials to produce up to 40,000.

Like Ukraines army, Russian forces have expended enormous amounts of weaponry in the grinding war and need resupply.

Egypts president appears to have put a stop to the rocket plan following visits from U.S. officials, including Brett McGurk and Barbara Leaf, the top White House and State Department officials for Middle East issues, who traveled to Cairo in late February, and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, who visited in early March.

The Wall Street Journal reported that month that Austin asked Egyptian leaders to provide Ukraine artillery rounds during their talks in Cairo but got no clear agreement. But an intelligence document dated March 9, the day after Austins visit, states that Egypt had approved selling 152mm and 155mm artillery rounds to the United States for transfer to Ukraine.

That document, part of a daily intelligence update for senior Pentagon leaders, said that Egypt planned to use the U.S. request for ammunition to push Washington for a long-term military aid deal and to obtain specific American equipment, including F-35 stealth fighter jets and Patriot air defense systems. The document said that Egypt would require American help for establishing a production line for the shells, a licensing agreement and raw materials.

Austins visit is the subject of another document, apparently from mid-March, that summarizes conversations between Sisi and two senior officials on March 8, the day the Egyptian president and the U.S. defense secretary held talks in Cairo.

In the March 8 conversations, Sisi appeared to suspect the possibility his discussions were being surveilled and issued Defense Minister Mohamed Zaki what the document described as a warning to be careful about discussing presumably military requests from other countries, like Russia. He and Zaki referenced military contracts with Russia but did not explicitly reference the rocket production plan, the document reported.

Zaki told Sisi that plans for an Egyptian delegation to travel to Russia on March 12 or 13, when they would likely sign contracts, had been postponed until the situation is clearer following Austins visit. Sisi said that caution was warranted to avoid Egypt getting into trouble unnecessarily, to which Zaki responded that we have not taken any measures and that Egypt had not signed any contracts.

Cairo has recently evinced frustration with the state of the relationship with Washington. The document summarizing Sisis March 8 conversations reports the Egyptian president characterized the situation as the U.S. not having anything new for Egypt and not needing anything from Egypt, with the U.S. only interested in confirming U.S.-Egypt relations.

ElSisi envisioned the U.S. believing Israel was doing well, the Gulf countries were fine, and Europe was supporting the U.S. regarding the Russian invasion of Ukraine, so as a result, Egypts role was secondary, it continued.

The United States has pressed Egypt on human rights issues, including on its widespread jailing of activists and anyone who might voice opposition to Sisi. Last year, Washington withheld a small portion of its military aid to Egypt, citing concerns over this pattern of repression.

Even so, President Biden  who once pledged no more blank checks for Sisi  has faced scrutiny for adopting what some critics saw as an overly friendly approach to the Egyptian president, including a chummy interaction on the sidelines of the COP27 climate conference in the resort town of Sharm el-Sheikh last year.

The intelligence also provides additional visibility into Egypts deepening military relationship with Moscow and how it may have already aided Russian forces on the battlefield. An additional, undated document in the leaked trove notes that U.S. imagery and electronic intelligence had identified four Russian SA-23 surface-to-air missile systems in Ukraine that very likely had been intended for export to Egypt. Cairo signed a contract with Moscow for four SA-23 batteries in 2017, and the first two were delivered to Egypt in 2020 and 2021, the document stated. It did not explicitly say whether Egypt had returned those two systems to Russia for use in Ukraine.

When Russia invaded Ukraine last year, Egypt took a public position of noninvolvement, voting for an end to the invasion at the United Nations but otherwise remaining neutral, and receiving visiting officials from both Russia and the United States. But with international grain shortages due to the war in Ukraine, Egypt has relied heavily on Russia to provide wheat that has helped stave off social unrest over rising food prices and an economic crisis caused in part by fallout from the conflict. Russia also began construction on Egypts first nuclear power plant last year and recently signed a deal for a railway workshop in Egypt.

The two countries have a long history of military and trade cooperation, even as Egypt relies on the United States for more than $1 billion of military aid each year. Egypts enormous population, strategic location neighboring Israel and control over the Suez Canal have long kept it relevant internationally, and Egyptian officials have tried to represent themselves to the United States and other powerful allies as a key security partner and mediator in regional tensions.

A former National Security Council official during the Obama administration who worked on the Middle East and spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive negotiations said that it was common for Egypt to use Russia as a hedge to push Washington. After the 2013 Rabaa massacre and military coup led by Sisi prompted the government to review aid to Egypt, Cairo indicated that it could turn to Russia, a threat that resonated with some senior officials at the time, the person said.

Behind the scenes, the leaked documents suggest, Egypts balancing act was more complicated.

Ideally it is not an either or, but appeasing both ends, the Western ambassador said. Bottom line is, though, they cannot endanger their ties with Russia [either], so they cannot actively cooperate with the U.S. on supplies to Ukraine.
IRBIL, Iraq  Iraq on Tuesday shut down a camp housing internally displaced Iraqis with alleged ties to the Islamic State group, the migration and displacement ministry announced.

The statement said the camp's closure came as part of a government program aiming to "end the displacement file" in the country, where 1.2 million Iraqis remain internally displaced after years of conflict.

Aid workers criticized the closure as hasty and chaotic.

On Monday, residents and aid workers at the Jadah 5 camp in northern Iraq's Qayyarah  which housed some 300 families  were informed by government and security officials that they had to leave the camp by Wednesday, a day before the beginning of the Muslim celebration of Eid al-Fitr.

Iraq has long sought to close down the displacement camp, one of the last remaining in federally controlled areas, but faced pushback from aid groups concerned over the integration of vulnerable families, including many women and children, stigmatized for their perceived or real affiliation with ISIS.

Aid workers Tuesday said they had been locked out of the camp by security forces and residents were being evicted after being given two days' notice to leave. An Associated Press correspondent who attempted to reach the camp found it surrounded by a heavy security deployment and was not allowed to access the premises.

Several official notices of closure had been sent to the camp over the past year and a half but were later delayed. This time, however, the closure came sooner than expected.

On March 23, Iraq's Ministry of Migration and Displacement sent a letter to the International Organization for Migration, which coordinates humanitarian aid in the camp, informing it that the camp would be shut down in 60 days. The letter did not cite a reason for the closure.

A spokesperson for the IOM said the organization is aware that residents have received notice that the camp will be closed but declined to comment further.

"They all must leave  they don't have another option," said Ali Abbas, a spokesperson for the ministry. He said each family had been given 1,500,000 Iraqi dinar (about $1030) to find new housing.

Abbas did not give a reason for the closure decision, and it was not clear why the ministry had moved up the May deadline cited in the letter.

The ministry statement, reported by state media, said that "all the displaced have returned to their original areas of residence on a voluntary basis."

The order to vacate the camp on Monday "was sudden, with no notice," said a worker with an aid organization operating in the camp, speaking on condition of anonymity for fear that the government would retaliate against the non-governmental organization. "So (residents) were confused about how to leave the camp."

Another aid worker, who also spoke on condition of anonymity, said the residents were told that if they did not leave, "the army will enter and kick out all those who remain," adding that ministry employees and security forces "started to confiscate the (identification) documents of the people to make sure that they leave."

U.N. and NGO workers on Tuesday were prevented from entering the premises by security forces, the aid workers said, and as of the afternoon all but around 15 to 20 families had left the camp.

Camp residents often fear violence from militias and tribes if they return to their areas of origin.

Authorities began a rapid push in late 2020 to close down displacement camps across the country in an effort to push forward with recovery efforts that have lagged years after the defeat of ISIS. Most camps were shut, aside from those in the semi-autonomous Kurdish region, and one where returnees from the al-Hol camp in Syria are housed.

International organizations have cited pervasive violence, exploitation and lawlessness in the al-Hol camp and called for countries with citizens housed there to repatriate them.

Associate Press journalist Farid Abdulwahed in Mosul, Iraq, contributed to this report.
QALANDIYA CHECKPOINT, West Bank  For many Palestinians, the journey to one of Islam's most sacred sites on the holiest night of Ramadan begins in a dust-choked, garbage-strewn maelstrom.

Tens of thousands of Palestinian worshippers from across the occupied West Bank on Monday crammed through a military checkpoint leading to Jerusalem to pray at the Al-Aqsa Mosque for Laylat al-Qadr, or the "Night of Destiny," when Muslims believe that the Quran was revealed to the Prophet Mohammad centuries ago.

The noisy, sweaty crowds at Qalandiya checkpoint seem chaotic  but there was a system: women to the right; men to the left. Jerusalem residents here, disabled people there. And the grim-looking men stranded at the corner had endured the long wait only to be turned back altogether.

"I'm not political, I'm just devout, so I thought maybe tonight, because of Laylat al-Qadr, they'd let me in," said Deia Jamil, a 40-year-old Arabic teacher from the West Bank city of Ramallah.

"But no. 'Forbidden,'" he said, sinking onto his knees to pray in the dirt lot.

For Palestinian worshippers, praying at the third-holiest site in Islam is a centerpiece of Ramadan. But hundreds of thousands are barred from legally crossing into Jerusalem, with most men under 55 turned away at checkpoints due to Israeli security restrictions. They often resort to perilous means to get to the holy compound during the fasting month of Ramadan.

This year, as in the past, Israel has eased some restrictions, allowing women and young children from the West Bank to enter Jerusalem without a permit. Those between the ages of 45 and 55 who have a valid permit can pray at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound  one of the most bitterly disputed holy sites on Earth.

Jews revere it as the Temple Mount, home to the biblical Temples, and consider it the holiest site in Judaism. The competing claims are at the heart of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and often spill over into violence.

Israel says it is committed to protecting freedom of worship for all faiths and describes the controls on Palestinian worshippers as an essential security measure that keeps attackers out of Israel. Last month, a Palestinian who crossed into Israel from the West Bank village of Nilin opened fire on a crowded street in Tel Aviv, killing one Israeli and wounding two others.

But for Palestinians, the restrictions take a toll.

"I feel completely lost," said 53-year-old Noureddine Odeh, his backpack sagging off one shoulder. His wife and teenage daughters made it through the checkpoint, leaving him behind. This year  a period of surging violence in the occupied West Bank  Israel raised the age limit for male worshippers and he was no longer eligible. "You're tugged around, like they're playing God."

Israeli authorities did not answer questions about how many Palestinian applications they'd rejected from the West Bank and Gaza. But they said that so far this month, some 289,000 Palestinians  the majority from the West Bank and a few hundred from the Gaza Strip  had visited Jerusalem for prayers.

Earlier this month, Israel announced the start of special Ramadan flights for West Bank Palestinians from the Ramon Airport in southern Israel. In normal times, Palestinians would have to fly from neighboring Jordan. But Monday, days before the end of Ramadan, the Israeli defense agency that handles Palestinian civilian affairs said only that Palestinians "will soon have the option."

The crowds squeezing through Qalandiya during Laylat al-Qadr  one of the most important nights of the year, when Muslims seek to have their prayers answered  were so overwhelming that Israeli forces repeatedly shut the barrier. The sudden closures created bottlenecks of people, most of whom had abstained from food and water all day. Medics from the Palestinian Red Crescent said at least 30 people collapse at the checkpoint on a busy Ramadan day.

Their elbows pressed into strangers' torsos and heads squeezed under armpits, five women studying to be midwives who had never before left the West Bank entertained themselves with fantasies of Jerusalem. "We'll buy meat and sweets," squealed 20-year-old Sondos Warasna. "And picnic in the Al-Aqsa courtyard."

The limestone courtyard, which teems with Palestinian families breaking fast each night after sunset, became roiled by violence earlier this month, when Ramadan overlapped with the Jewish holiday of Passover. Israeli police raided the compound, firing stun grenades and arresting hundreds of Palestinian worshippers who had barricaded themselves inside the mosque with fireworks and stones. The raid, which Israel said was necessary to prevent further violence, outraged Muslims across the world and prompted militants in Lebanon and the Gaza Strip to fire rockets at Israel.

Anger over access to the contested compound was undimmed at Qalandiya. Throngs of Palestinian girls and older men ostensibly permitted to pass were turned back and told they had security bans they never knew about that barred them from Jerusalem. The secretive system  which Palestinians consider a key tool in Israel's 55-year-old military occupation  left them reeling, struggling to understand why.

A 16-year-old girl from the northern city of Jenin frantically called her parents who had entered Jerusalem without her. A 19-year-old from Ramallah changed her coat and put on sunglasses and lipstick before trying again.

Others found riskier ways to get to the holy compound  scrambling over Israel's hulking separation barrier or sliding under razor wire.

Abdallah, a young medical student from the southern city of Hebron, clambered up a rickety ladder with six of his friends in the pre-dawn darkness Monday  then slid down a rope on the wall's other side  so he could make it to Al-Aqsa for Laylat al-Qadr. They paid a smuggler some $70 each to help them scale the barrier.

"My heart was beating so loud. I was sure soldiers would hear it," Abdallah said, giving only his first name for fear of reprisals.

The Israeli military has picked up hundreds of Palestinians who sneaked through holes in the separation barrier during Ramadan, it said, adding that forces would "continue to act against the security risk arising from the destruction of the security fence and illegal entry."

Abdallah said the experience of Jerusalem's Old City brought him great joy. But soon anxiety set in. Israeli police were everywhere  occasionally stopping young men and asking to see their IDs. He tried to blend in, wearing counterfeit athleisure like many Jerusalemites and smiling to look relaxed.

"It's a mixed feeling. At any moment I know I could be arrested," he said from the entrance to the sacred compound. "But our mosque, it makes me feel free."
Fed up with repeated mass shootings, hundreds of people from the Chicago area took part in a march in Washington, D.C., Monday to call for a federal ban on assault guns.

Among them was Lindsey Hartman, who survived the Fourth of July mass shooting during a parade in her hometown of Highland Park last year. She and her husband threw themselves on top of their 4-year-old daughter to protect her, as people next to them were shot and killed.

The Save Our Students march was organized by March Fourth, a nonpartisan group founded by Kitty Brandtner of Winnetka.

Brandtner and her children were at the July Fourth parade in neighboring Winnetka when the Highland Park shooting occurred, and they had to run and take cover because the gunman was on the loose.

Seven people were killed and dozens injured in the Highland Park shooting.

Demands for stronger gun control have continued since, Brandtner said, including recently after a shooting in March that killed six people at a Christian school in Nashville.

I cant understand why we decided this was OK, she said Monday of the repeated mass shootings. We are simply asking for a federal assault weapons ban now.

While Americans differ over gun control measures, marchers said, everyone wants to prevent mass shootings. Sixty-seven percent of Americans support an assault weapons ban, according to a 2018 poll by the Pew Research Center, while a Gallup poll last year put the support at 55%.

Mass shootings in the United States have been increasing in recent years, nearly doubling since 2018, to about 700 last year, GunViolenceArchive.org reported.

Gun rights advocates say the term assault weapons is vague and misleading. Proposed federal bills to ban assault weapons and large-capacity magazines, such as Senate Bill 25, define them by various criteria, including semi-automatic rifles and handguns that take more than 10 rounds.

Illinois lawmakers passed an assault weapons ban this year. A federal judge heard arguments last week about a challenge to the constitutionality of the law by the Illinois State Rifle Association and others. A federal judge previously upheld the law in another case.

Some state court judges have prevented the law from taking effect against more than 1,000 plaintiffs who filed suit, and one case is pending before the Illinois Supreme Court.

Also Monday, a bipartisan group of 162 mayors in the United States Conference of Mayors sent a letter to Congress urging action on gun safety legislation. Among the mayors who signed were Chicagos Lori Lightfoot and Highland Parks Nancy Rotering.

Todd Vandermyde of Yorkville, a former lobbyist for the National Rifle Association in Illinois, said state and federal bans are unconstitutional under previous U.S. Supreme Court rulings, because they attempt to prohibit commonly used weapons.

Socioeconomic factors, such as a lack of parents with good jobs, failing schools and poor mental health treatment, are the root causes of most gun violence, he said.

Citing long-running gun violence in the city of Chicago despite its handgun ban that was struck down by the Supreme Court in 2010, Vandermyde said, Bans dont work.

Christopher Koper, author of a U.S. Department of Justice report on the prior federal ban, said a new ban would not be a panacea for gun crime but could reduce some of the most serious and costly gun crimes.

____

2023 Chicago Tribune.

Visit at chicagotribune.com.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra violated a law that restricts political activities of federal employees when he advocated for the election of Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) at a Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute event in the fall, the Office of Special Counsel has determined.

In a letter Tuesday relaying the finding to President Biden, Special Counsel Henry J. Kerner said that Becerra had violated the Hatch Act when he spoke "in his official capacity" at the institute's annual awards gala in September.

"The Hatch Act prohibits federal employees from using their official authority or influence to affect the outcome of an election," Kerner said. "In delivering his speech, Secretary Becerra impermissibly mixed his personal electoral preference with official remarks. While federal employees are permitted to express support for candidates when speaking in their personal capacity, the Hatch Act restricts employees from doing so when speaking as a government official."

In a response to the findings, Becerra said he regretted what he described as an "inadvertent violation."

"While I did not realize at the time that my off-the-cuff remarks concerning my personal voting intentions were in violation of the Hatch Act, I now understand why they were not permitted," he said.

Becerra added that he had received "additional counseling" on the Hatch Act from his department's ethics division and that he would "work hard to ensure that there are no future violations."

California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) appointed Padilla to the Senate to replace Kamala D. Harris after she became vice president. Padilla won election in 2022.

Under most legal interpretations of the Hatch Act, the president in office at the time is the only person who can take action to fire or reprimand his political appointees when they act illegally.

The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the report on Becerra.

During the presidency of Donald Trump, numerous administration officials violated the Hatch Act without consequence.

In just one episode, Kerner's office found that at least 13 senior Trump administration officials illegally mixed governing with campaigning before the 2020 election.

That report described a "willful disregard for the law" that was "especially pernicious," given that many officials abused their government roles days before the November election.

"This failure to impose discipline created the conditions for what appeared to be a taxpayer-funded campaign apparatus within the upper echelons of the executive branch," investigators wrote in a report.
WILMINGTON, Del.  Fox and Dominion Voting Systems reached a settlement Tuesday in the voting machine companys defamation lawsuit, averting a trial in a case that exposed how the top-rated network chased viewers by promoting lies about the 2020 presidential election.

Dominion Voting Systems said the settlement was for $787.5 million.

The truth matters. Lies have consequences, Dominion lawyer Justin Nelson said in a news conference outside the courthouse after the announcement.

Dominion had asked for $1.6 billion in arguing that Fox had damaged its reputation by helping peddle phony conspiracy theories about its equipment switching votes from former President Donald Trump to Democrat Joe Biden. Fox said the amount greatly overstated the value of the Colorado-based company.

The resolution announced in Delaware Superior Court follows a recent summary judgment ruling by Judge Eric Davis in which he allowed the case to go to trial while emphasizing it was CRYSTAL clear that none of the allegations about Dominion aired on Fox by Trump allies were true.

In a statement issued shortly after the announcement, Fox News said the network acknowledged the courts rulings finding certain claims about Dominion to be false. It did not respond to an inquiry asking for elaboration.

Inquiries to Dominion and Fox Corp. were not immediately returned.

Records released as part of the lawsuit showed how Fox hosts and executives did not believe the claims by Trumps allies but aired them anyway, in part to win back viewers who were fleeing the network after it correctly called hotly contested Arizona for Democrat Joe Biden on election night.

The settlement, if formally accepted by the judge, will end a case that has proven a major embarrassment for Fox News. If the case had gone to trial, it also would have presented one of the sternest tests to a libel standard that has protected media organizations for more than half a century.

Several First Amendment experts had said Dominions case was among the strongest they had ever seen. Still, there was real doubt about whether Dominion would be able to prove to a jury that people in a decision-making capacity at Fox could be held responsible for the networks airing of the falsehoods.

Dominion accused Fox of defaming it by repeatedly airing, in the weeks after the 2020 presidential election, false allegations by Trump allies that its machines and the software they used had flipped votes to Biden  even as many at the network doubted the claims and disparaged those who were making them.

The company sued both Fox News and its parent, Fox Corp., and said its business had been significantly damaged.

During a deposition, Fox Corp. Chairman Rupert Murdoch, who founded the network, testified that he believed the 2020 election was fair and had not been stolen from Trump.

Fox knew the truth, Dominion argued in court papers. It knew the allegations against Dominion were outlandish and crazy and ludicrous and nuts. Yet it used the power and influence of its platform to promote that false story.

In his March 31 summary judgment ruling, Davis pointedly called out the news organization for airing falsehoods while noting how the bogus election claims persist, 2 years after Trump lost his bid for reelection.

The statements at issue were dramatically different than the truth, Davis said in that ruling. In fact, although it cannot be attributed directly to Foxs statements, it is noteworthy that some Americans still believe the election was rigged.

In its defense, Fox said it was obligated to report on the most newsworthy of stories  a president claiming that he had been cheated out of reelection.

We never reported those to be true, Fox lawyer Erin Murphy said. All we ever did was provide viewers the true fact that these were allegations that were being made.

Fox said Dominion had argued that the network was obligated to suppress the allegations or denounce them as false.

Freedom of speech and of the press would be illusory if the prevailing side in a public controversy could sue the press for giving a forum to the losing side, Fox said in court papers.

In a 1964 case involving The New York Times, the U.S. Supreme Court limited the ability of public figures to sue for defamation. The court ruled that plaintiffs needed to prove that news outlets published or aired false material with actual malice  knowing such material was false or acting with a reckless disregard for whether or not it was true.

That has provided news organizations with stout protection against libel judgments. Yet the nearly six-decade legal standard has come under attack by some conservatives in recent years, including Trump and Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida, who have argued for making it easier to win a libel case.

Two Republican-nominated Supreme Court justices, Clarence Thomas and Neil Gorsuch, have publicly expressed interest in revisiting the protection.

Dominions lawyers argued that Fox made a deliberate decision to repeatedly air the false claims to appeal to viewers. They allowed guests to falsely claim that the company had rigged the election, flipped large numbers of votes to Biden through a secret algorithm, was owned by a company founded in Venezuela to rig elections for Hugo Chavez, the late president, and bribed government officials.

What they did to get viewers back was start this new narrative that the election had been stolen and that Dominion was the thief, Dominion lawyer Rodney Smolla said during a March hearing.

A mountain of evidence  released in the form of deposition transcripts, internal memos and emails from the time  was damaging to Fox even if some of it was only tangentially related to the libel argument.

Dominion has pointed to text and email messages in which Fox insiders discounted and sometimes overtly mocked the vote manipulation claims. One Fox Corp. vice president called them MIND BLOWINGLY NUTS.

Much of the material showed a network effectively terrified of its audience after its election night declaration that Biden had won Arizona. The race call infuriated Trump and many viewers who supported him.

One of Foxs top news anchors, Bret Baier, noted the audiences anger and suggested rescinding the call, even awarding the state to Trump.

We dont want to antagonize Trump further, Murdoch said in a Nov. 16 memo.

Biden narrowly won Arizona, but two executives responsible for the accurate election night call lost their jobs because of it two months later. In an internal memo, Murdoch talked in mid-November about firing them.

Fox executives and anchors discussed how not to alienate the audience, many of whom believed Trumps claims of fraud despite no evidence to back them up. Foxs Tucker Carlson suggested a news reporter be fired for tweeting a fact check debunking the fraud claims.

Some of the exhibits were simply embarrassing, such as scornful behind-the-scenes opinions about Trump, whose supporters form the core of the networks viewers. Text exchanges revealed as part of the lawsuit show Carlson declaring, I hate him passionately, and saying that we are very, very close to being able to ignore Trump most nights.

Chase reported from Dover, Del.
WASHINGTON  A Defense Department official assured lawmakers Tuesday that the recent leak of classified intelligence documents will not affect the U.S. militarys strategy in the Indo-Pacific as it calms allied countries in a region dominated by China.

The department is reaching out to allies and partners to make certain that they are understanding the position of the Pentagon as it assists the Justice Department with investigating a disgraceful, criminal act that has reverberated around the globe, said Jedidiah Royal, the principal deputy assistant secretary of defense for Indo-Pacific security affairs.

I do want to be clear on this point: This will not knock us off of our strategy, off of our campaigning approach with integrated deterrence in the Indo-Pacific region, he said. It is an exceptionally unfortunate situation that does come with national security consequences, but it will not knock us off our approach.

Royal made the comments during a House Armed Services Committee hearing on military operations in the Indo-Pacific, the most strategically important theater for American troops as China seeks to challenge the U.S.-led world order.

An Air Force National Guard airman is accused of leaking classified intelligence documents that revealed tactical information about the war in Ukraine as well as embarrassing evidence of the U.S. spying on its allies.

One of the disclosures showed the U.S. had eavesdropped on a conversation involving national security officials in South Korea, a key U.S. partner in the region that also hosts multiple American military bases. A South Korean presidential official said last week that the country plans to discuss with the U.S issues raised because of the leak.

Royal did not specifically refer to South Korea in his testimony Tuesday but said the Defense Department is conducting outreach with friends in the region.

It's very serious, the department is taking it with the highest degree of seriousness, he said. We, every single day, have a responsibility to protect information and make sure that our classified information remains ours.

Gen. Paul LaCamera, commander of U.S. forces in South Korea, described the U.S.-South Korea relationship Tuesday as a center of gravity for deterring the totalitarian North Korean regime and said strengthening the alliance was one of his top priorities.

Adm. John Aquilino, commander of Indo-Pacific Command, said he is seeking to build a network of like-minded nations in the region that will stand as a bulwark against aggression by China and North Korea. The U.S. has regional treaty alliances with Japan, South Korea, the Philippines, Australia and Thailand and is looking to pull in additional allies through military exercises and other engagements.

U.S. troops perform exercises with Indonesia, Malaysia and other countries in the region about 120 times per year, Aquilino said. About 60% of the U.S. maritime force is stationed in the Indo-Pacific.

Its an asymmetric advantage because its the one thing that China doesnt have, and thats partners, he said.

Rep. Adam Smith of Washington, the top Democrat on the committee, said it was necessary to deepen relationships with countries such as India and Vietnam to contain the threat from China and its burgeoning connection with Russia. India, the worlds largest democracy, has traditionally relied on Russia as its arms supplier and has ramped up imports of Russian oil after Western sanctions led to steep cuts in the price of crude.

Aquilino said the U.S. continues to cooperate with India through military exercises and has provided the country, which he called a critical partner, with cold weather gear and other capabilities. The U.S is also helping India develop a defense industrial base that in the future could produce components for planes and helicopters, he said.

That is expanding the partnership and moving them towards certainly self-sufficiency and increased partnership with the United States, Aquilino said.
KYODO NEWS - Apr 18, 2023 - 19:19 | All, Japan, G7, World

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida confirmed Tuesday with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken that their countries will work together to realize a successful Group of Seven summit in Hiroshima next month.

Kishida has recently met with senior U.S. officials visiting Japan in succession to boost the momentum toward the G-7 summit, slated to be held in his home constituency of Hiroshima, a city that was devastated by a U.S. atomic bomb in August 1945.

Blinken visited the prime minister's office in Tokyo after concluding the three-day G-7 foreign ministerial gathering in the resort town of Karuizawa, central Japan, around a month before the main summit.

At the outset of the meeting, which was open to the media, Kishida said Japan wants to work with the United States to maintain a "rules-based international order" -- in an apparent reference to China's growing regional military assertiveness and Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Calling the G-7 a "critical steering committee for the leading democratic economies," Blinken told Kishida that President Joe Biden is looking forward to "pursuing" the agenda set out by Japan at the three-day summit scheduled from May 19.

Kishida has expressed that he is eager to pitch his vision of a world free of nuclear weapons at the G-7 summit in Hiroshima.

In Karuizawa, the G-7 foreign ministers demonstrated their unity on Taiwan, while urging China, which regards the island as a renegade province to be reunified with the mainland, by force if necessary, to behave responsibly as a member of the international community.

The ministers from Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United States, plus the European Union, also pledged to bolster economic sanctions on Russia and continue supporting Ukraine, which has been under attack by Moscow since February 2022.

Related coverage:

Japan, U.S. vow to uphold rules-based order, cooperate on N. Korea

G-7 unified in backing Taiwan peace, urges China to act responsibly

FOCUS: Japan's G-7 leadership role faces tests at decarbonization talks
Bryan Kennedy (35), with an address at Mount Tallant Avenue, Dublin 6W, was sentenced to five years' imprisonment

A husband who hired an "unhinged" hitman in a "grotesque plan" to kill a couple who were having an "online affair" with his wife has been jailed for four and a half years.

Bryan Kennedy (35) was yesterday sentenced at the Central Criminal Court by Ms Justice Caroline Biggs to five years' imprisonment with the final six months suspended for six months.

At Kennedy's first sentence hearing in January, Ms Justice Biggs said she wanted to allow time for the child and family agency Tusla to put in place supports for Kennedy's children so they would not suffer prejudice due to his prison sentence.

Ms Justice Biggs said that while there would be "emotional consequences" for Kennedy's children due to his incarceration, the supports in place would be a "moveable feast" for the children as they grew older.

The judge said that during the suspended six-month portion of the sentence Kennedy is to engage with all training and educational courses and with emotional and mental support facilities recommended by the probation service.

Ms Justice Biggs said that Kennedy had been "very, very co-operative" with agencies regarding his children and had attended all appointments with all groups involved to date.

The court previously heard that Kennedy is the primary carer for his children and that his former wife, who is disabled and uses a wheelchair, is unable to provide the required care the children need.

Bryan Kennedy   Paddy Cummins - PCPhoto.ie

In sentencing Kennedy last January, Ms Justice Biggs said that Kennedy "hatched the plan" to kill his wife's online friends with a man he knew to be "unhinged" and who had previous convictions.

She said the man he attempted to get to carry out the killings, named 'AL' for legal reasons, warned Kennedy that he was embarking on a "dangerous road" but that Kennedy proceeded nonetheless. "His decision to engage in this grotesque plan is not under duress but was voluntary," Ms Justice Biggs said.

Kennedy paid 8,000 to the would-be assassin by taking loans from family and friends. He engaged, the judge said, in a plan to kill two people as well as a discussion as to whether it would be cheaper to kill just one, before electing to kill the couple.

He provided personal details of the two women and accessed his wife's Facebook page in pursuit of his plan. Ms Justice Biggs said: "This is not a plan that is spontaneous, it is initiated by him and he takes time to think about it and having done so he decides to pursue it. It is not a spontaneous plan born out of rage or bravado, it is planned and meant to be executed."

She said his later decision to pull out was not because he didn't want to have the two women killed but because he came to have doubts about AL's bona fides and started considering whether he could carry out the plan himself.

The judge said the backfiring of the plan was not a mitigating factor but she noted that Kennedy had been threatened and intimidated by AL. The evidence of one witness was that Kennedy came to be "terrified" of AL. Ms Justice Biggs said mitigation from that is limited because Kennedy "must have known that if he engages with someone who agrees to be a conduit to kill two people or to himself kill two people, that person is dangerous and unhinged."

Among the mitigating factors, the judge said, were that Kennedy was a good father who has lived through difficult life circumstances. She said Kennedy had cooperated with gardai, made full admissions immediately on being questioned and pleaded guilty.

Ms Justice Biggs added: "I do not think that the fact his wife was having an online affair is an excuse for engaging in this grotesque plan. There is no difference to all manner of people in this country who suffer from pain and grief and difficult life circumstances. But I do acknowledge he has been a good father in difficult circumstances."

The judge also noted Kennedy's remorse and his history of depression which had been largely untreated at the time of the offences. She set the headline sentence at eight years but having considered all mitigating factors she reduced it to five years with the final six months suspended for six months.

Kennedy, with an address at Mount Tallant Avenue, Harold's Cross, Dublin 6W, pleaded guilty in July last year to soliciting the man to murder Stephanie Poirier on a date unknown between October 1, 2019, and January 11, 2020, both dates inclusive, within the State.

Kennedy pleaded guilty to the same offence relating to Ms Poirier's partner, Clara Houdebrumette. Both women live in Canada.

During a sentencing hearing last year, Detective Sergeant Ronan O'Malley told James Dwyer SC, prosecuting, that Kennedy's partner had made contact with the couple, who live in rural Canada, via an online game.

Det Sgt O'Malley said that Kennedy had become aware of Facebook messages of an intimate nature between his then-wife and the couple, which included an invitation from the couple to join them in Canada.

Det Sgt O'Malley said that Kennedy told a neighbour he felt "betrayed" and that his wife had told him that she no longer loved him and had stopped wearing her wedding ring.

The detective said that Kennedy confided in AL, who told him that he could "get it sorted".

Det Sgt O'Malley said AL told Kennedy that he could "sort" either the Canadians or Kennedy's wife but "if you [Kennedy] go down this road it's a dangerous road".

The neighbour told gardai that he did not believe that AL had the capacity to carry out the threat and that Kennedy was being treated like a "gilly" and a "suck". He said that AL was "trying to suck every penny" out of Kennedy.

The detective said Kennedy had given 8K to AL, who was becoming "pushy" about money and demanded a further 2,000 for his associates.

The neighbour said Kennedy was "petrified, crying and terrified" by threats made over phone calls and Whatsapp messages against him, his three children and his then-wife by AL as he demanded money, Det Sgt O'Malley said.

AL later approached Kennedy's wife at home, saying the defendant wanted a 10,000 "hit" and demanding that she herself come up with 1,500 inside 20 minutes and that she could pay off the remaining 500 in a week's time.

AL told Kennedy's wife that he himself had been beaten over Kennedy's debt to AL's associates and that if the money was not found she would be "kneecapped".

On January 10, 2020, Kennedy's ex-wife called gardai when she heard banging and kicking at her front door and told them her back door mat had been lifted up as if someone was looking for a key.

She told gardai that on January 13, 2020, AL was kicking the front door of the Kennedys' home shouting "hand over Bryan or there'll be trouble".

Det Sgt O'Malley told Mr Dwyer that Kennedy had already gotten on a ferry to England after borrowing money from neighbours to pay 8,000 to AL.

The witness said that Kennedy eventually returned and on February 11, 2020, he was approached by AL at Nutgrove Shopping Centre when with his wife and children. The detective said that AL became aggressive and was removed by security staff.

After a search warrant of Kennedy's sister's house, gardai arrested Kennedy and took him to Terenure Garda Station where he admitted to engaging AL to hurt or kill the Canadian couple.

Kennedy told gardai he backtracked on the deal, telling AL that 10,000 was too much money. Kennedy further admitted to gardai that he hacked his wife's Facebook messages in order to have the Canadian couple "painted". In interviews with gardai, Kennedy was asked what was meant by the word "painted" and said the two were "to be killed".

Kennedy told gardai that he conspired to have the couple killed but never discussed the manner of the killing, later backing out and telling AL to keep the money and that the job no longer needed to be done.

Kennedy said AL had now become "incessant" about the remaining 2,000 and that the defendant began thinking of doing the hit himself.

Det Sgt O'Malley said Kennedy, when admitting engaging a third party - 'AL' - to kill the couple, said he was acting out of "love and heart-break". Kennedy told gardai he wanted to be "open and honest" about the matter, about which he was "sorry and remorseful".

Det Sgt O'Malley told the court that, when contacted, the couple, who live in rural Quebec, expressed no concern for their wellbeing after being told of the situation.

Defending barrister Dominic McGinn SC said AL did not have the capability to carry out his threat to the couple and that the two were never in danger.

Det Sgt O'Malley told Mr McGinn that Kennedy had been "extremely" co-operative with investigating gardai.

Mr McGinn said his client had admitted both his "culpability and criminal intent" in soliciting AL to kill the couple but that there was "no credible threat" in the matter except to Kennedy himself and his family.

Mr McGinn said Kennedy was "forthright" with gardai in his admissions and was "completely out of his depth in circumstances out of his control".

The barrister said Kennedy's way of dealing with the situation was "entirely wrong, and criminally wrong" and that his inability to cope with the situation led to his client "trying to disappear".

The barrister said Kennedy had been "unproblematic" when dealing with the probation services and was "inherently unlikely to be before the court again".
William Walker pleaded guilty to attempting to sexually communicate with a child called Sammy Jo

A former DUP councillor has appeared in court on Monday to face charges of attempted sexual communication with children.

William Walker attended the hearing at Downpatrick Crown Court, sitting in Belfast, via a video-link.

Formerly from Killyleagh and with a current address at Palatine Road in Blackpool, the 60-year-old was charged with two separate offences of attempted communication with a child for the purposes of sexual gratification.

Walker pleaded guilty to a charge of attempting to sexually communicate with a child called Sammy Jo on dates between February 10 and 15, 2022.

William Walker (Credit: Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker)

When a second similar charge of attempting to sexually communicate with a child called Daisy May on dates between February 10 and 23, 2022 was put to Walker, he replied not guilty.

Although no details regarding the charges emerged today, it is understood they arise from information supplied to the police by a paedophile hunter group.

As a result of his admission to the first charge, Walker was placed on the Sex Offenders Register  and the length of time he will spend on the Register will be determined at a later date.

Judge Geoffrey Miller KC said he would review the case again on May 3 and the former Mourne and Down District councillor was granted continuing bail.
The district court heard that Sgt Middleton got into a bed with a woman after a night out with her friends

A garda sergeant (42) convicted of sexually assaulting a young woman has launched a High Court action aimed at preventing his dismissal from the force.

Sergeant Cathal Middleton claims the Garda Commissioner's proposal that he should be summarily dismissed from his job before his appeal against his conviction is heard, and in the absence of any disciplinary hearing or inquiry, is flawed and in breach of fair procedures.

In October of last year Sergeant Middleton was found guilty at a sitting of Blanchardstown District Court of one count of Sexual Assault Contrary to Section 2 of the 1990 Criminal Law (Rape) Amendment Act, as amended by Section 37 of the 2001 Sex Offenders Act.

He denied the charge.

The district court heard that Sgt Middleton on March 2, 2020, at an address in Lucan, got into a bed with a woman after a night out with her friends.

The woman, who was not on the night out, was asleep at the time.

She alleged that after Sgt Middleton got into her bed and that the outside of his right thigh touched her fully clothed buttock.

She said that she shouted at him to get out of the bed, which she says he did.

At all stages the South Dublin-based Sgt Middleton denied ever getting into the bed with the woman.

Following his conviction, Sgt Middleton was subsequently jailed for five months by the district court judge.

He has appealed the conviction.

Arising out of the conviction, the Garda Commissioner informed Sgt Middleton last December that he had engaged in "discreditable conduct" under garda disciplinary regulations.

The Commissioner added that he was proposing to dismiss the Sergeant from An Garda Siochana on that grounds that he was considered "unfit for retention.

The Commissioner did not believe that the holding of an internal garda inquiry into the matter nor the fact that an appeal remains outstanding, would result in him changing his mind about Sgt Middleton's proposed dismissal.

Represented by Mark Harty SC, with Oisin Clarke Bl, instructed by Sean Costello Solicitors, Sgt Middleton claims that the Commissioner has erred in law by recommending his dismissal, before the appeal against the criminal conviction has been determined.

The Commissioner's decision, it is claimed, amounts to a breach of Sgt Middleton's constitutional rights to fair procedures and natural justice.

The Commissioner, it is claimed,has acted outside of his powers in this matter.

In his judicial review proceedings, Sgt Middleton, who has been a garda since 2002, seeks various orders including one quashing the Commissioner's decision to recommend the applicant's dismissal.

He also seeks an order preventing the Commissioner from taking any further steps to dismiss Sgt Middleton from An Garda Siochana.

The action came before Mr Justice Charles Meenan today, who on an ex-parte basis granted Sergeant Middleton permission to bring his challenge.

The matter was adjourned, and will be mentioned before the court later this year.
The garda investigation remains live with sources saying detectives hope to bring further prosecutions in relation to the murder of David Byrne (32) on February 5, 2016.

More than 600 days after being arrested in Spain over the Regency Hotel gun attack Gerry The Monk Hutch is once again a free man after being acquitted of murder.

Gardai believe he will travel to Spain almost immediately after over a year in custody in Dublins Wheatfield Prison.

The three judges at the Special Criminal Court found that, while the shooting was orchestrated by the Hutch family and The Monk had been in control of the assault rifles used, the prosecution did not prove that he was one of the gunmen involved.

The garda investigation remains live with sources saying detectives hope to bring further prosecutions in relation to the murder of David Byrne (32) on February 5, 2016.

This includes potential charges in relation to suspects who were involved in planning the attack and the actual gunmen involved.

Detectives believe they know the identities of the hit team as well as those involved in sourcing weapons and other getaway drivers.

This includes a Dublin man, aged in his 30s, suspected of being one of the gunmen dressed in garda tactical gear and an older criminal suspected of logistical involvement.

After being found not guilty, Mr Hutch (60) left the courts complex on Dublins Parkgate Street to a large media scrum.

Gerry Hutch leaves court

He was asked multiple questions, including whether he had anything to say to former Sinn Fein councillor Jonathan Dowdall, who turned States evidence against him, but he declined to comment.

Two other men, Paul Murphy (61), from Swords, Co Dublin, and Jason Bonney (52), from Portmarnock, Co Dublin, were yesterday convicted of making motor vehicles available to the murder gang.

Ms Justice Tara Burns, presiding, said that the audio surveillance which the State relied upon did not contain direct admissions from Mr Hutch that he was present at the hotel or was one of the shooters.

The judge also said there were serious difficulties in the evidence of key witness Jonathan Dowdall, an accomplice in the crime who was initially charged with murder before admitting to a lesser charge of facilitating the gang involved by making a hotel room available to them.

He only made a formal statement to detectives shortly before the murder trial.

Ms Justice Burns yesterday remarked: One wonders what the case was intended to be before the introduction of Jonathan Dowdall as a prosecution witness.

As Mr Hutch walked from court a man appeared by his side to usher him away from the press. The unidentified male, who is not connected to Mr Hutch, told reporters to leave the man alone and let him grieve in peace as they walked along Infirmary Road. Other passers-by were heard saying: Good man, Gerry and Congratulations, Gerry.

Asked if he had any thoughts on the DPPs decision to charge him with murder on evidence that appeared thin, Mr Hutch made a facial expression but did not comment. He was then ushered into a taxi by his legal team before leaving the area.

The Monk walked free 614 days after he was arrested in Spain on August 12, 2021, on foot of a European Arrest Warrant.

Earlier, David Byrnes family, including his mother Sadie Byrne, declined to comment as they left the court, telling waiting reporters, Leave us alone.

Father-of-two Mr Byrne, a Kinahan gang member, was killed when five armed raiders, three disguised as ERU gardai with assault rifles, stormed the hotel and opened fire.

Ms Justice Burns said the Regency attack was a meticulously planned, high-velocity assassination event which left one man dead and two injured.

It was an atrocity that sparked mayhem on the streets of Dublin resulting in a series of callous murders.

Former Sinn Fein councillor Jonathan Dowdall, who was jailed last year for his role in facilitating the murder was a key prosecution witness against Mr Hutch. He is serving a four-year jail term for making a room available to Kevin Murray, the Flat Cap gunman involved, although he has appealed that sentence.

The main testimony given by the ex-politician was that he handed the room key card to Gerry Hutch before the murder, and that the defendant admitted his involvement in a park days after the shooting.

Ms Justice Burns said the prosecutions case was therefore that Mr Hutch was one of the two shooters who shot David Byrne in the Regency.

She said his evidence had to be treated with caution with the judge saying he obtained a significant benefit from providing a statement to gardai, and that his ability to tell convincing lies in garda interviews was extremely concerning.

He was extremely reluctant to acknowledge his friendship with Pearse McAuley, an infamous, dangerous terrorist.

The judges said they were not prepared to act on his statements alone and that they needed corroborating evidence.

The surveillance tapes, they found, showed that Mr Hutch was in control of the assault rifles used and that the Hutch family orchestrated and organised the shooting.

However, Ms Justice Burns said this was not the case Mr Hutch was there to meet.

Gerry 'The Monk' Hutch leaving the CCJ. Photo: Mark Condren

The audio does not contain any direct admission by Gerard Hutch that he was actually present at the Regency or that he was a shooter, the judge continued.

The judges also cast doubt over Mr Hutch, a man in his mid-50s at the time, being one of the agile gunmen involved in the hit.

Ms Justice Burns said the tapes did not establish actual presence and participation by Mr Hutch.

The judge said there was a reasonable possibility that the Regency was planned by Patsy Hutch and that Gerry Hutch stepped in in the aftermath, as head of the family.

The audio did not provide independent evidence of Dowdalls allegations against Mr Hutch and the established facts do not marry together to support his account.

The court could not rely on Dowdalls allegations without corroborating evidence and was therefore not satisfied beyond reasonable doubt as to the guilt of Mr Hutch in the murder of David Byrne.
I felt personally betrayed this was allowed to happen and it belittled the impact of what he did to me

A man who was water-boarded by Hutch trial State witness Jonathan Dowdall says he believes the prosecution was tainted from day one by the use of the convicted criminal as a witness.

He has now called for legislation to restrict the use of testimony by convicted criminals in future trials, saying that unless every word of their testimony can be independently verified, it should not be used.

It comes after the Special Criminal Court found Gerry The Monk Hutch not guilty of the murder of David Byrne at the Regency Hotel in north Dublin in February 2016.

In the judgment, Ms Justice Tara Burns, presiding, said while the court was satisfied that members of the Hutch family were responsible for the Regency attack, it was not satisfied beyond reasonable doubt that Gerard Hutch was guilty of murder.

Ms Justice Burns completely dismissed Jonathan Dowdalls credibility as a witness in her lengthy judgement, saying he acted out of self interest and the court was not prepared to act on his statement alone.

Dowdalls victim, who survived a horror ordeal during which he was warned he would be chopped up and fed to the dogs, also revealed the use of Dowdall as a witness had left him feeling betrayed and belittled the impact the episode has had on his life.

I was absolutely against it from day one, he said.

I felt personally betrayed this was allowed to happen and it belittled the impact of what he did to me.

This was an individual who had demonstrated previously that not only was he capable of organising and executing an act of great violence, but he was also happy to lie about it on the stand.

That for me raised so many red flags and I think it should have precluded his being used as a witness.

I couldnt understand how he could be seen as a credible witness.

I dont know how this was allowed - his copy book had been blotted so much.

Dowdall was originally due to go on trial alongside Hutch for the murder of David Byrne.

But the murder charge was dropped after he pleaded guilty to facilitating the killing and agreed to testify against his former co-accused.

Dowdall was sentenced to four years in prison for facilitating the murder the day before Hutchs trial began.

Such was the extent of the victims dismay at the use of Dowdall as a witness in the trial, he publicly offered to give testimony on behalf of the defence in relation to the former Sinn Fein councillors past crimes.

Both Jonathan Dowdall and his father, Patrick, were convicted of falsely imprisoning and threatening to kill a man at an address on Navan Road, Dublin 7 on January 15, 2015.

They both served prison sentences for those offences and were released in April of last year.

It was during a garda raid on Jonathan Dowdalls home in connection to the Regency Hotel shooting that footage was recovered of the torture episode.

Jonathan Dowdall and his father Patrick leaving court previously

During the Dowdalls trial for false imprisonment and threats to kill, the Special Criminal Court heard how their victim visited the home on the Navan Road on January 12, 2015, about the purchase of a motorbike.

Three days later, Jonathan Dowdall invited the victim back to his home for dinner, but instead he was pushed into the garage where his wrists, chest and legs were tied to the chair with cable ties.

The victim was accused of being a thief and of trying to steal a car from another person.

Footage recorded on a mobile phone, and later obtained by gardai in a search of Jonathan Dowdalls home, showed the former politician wearing a balaclava and holding a tea-towel to the victims face before pouring water over his head.

The victim was told he was stupid to mess with the IRA and his parents would be dead within 48 hours of his own disappearance if he told gardai.

The court also heard that at one stage Patrick Dowdall pulled out a silver pliers and threatened to pull the victims fingers off.

Gerry Hutch leaves court

Speaking with the Sunday World, he was sickened by the fact Dowdall appeared to have gained by giving evidence at the Hutch trial.

I am sickened by the fact the murder charge was dropped against Dowdall  even though this man was a convicted torturer and supplied the room card used by one of the hit team.

I think his use as a witness could be considered good grounds for appeal.

This man admitted on the stand lying in court about what he did to me.

And then he offered evidence in the trial that appeared to me to be simply not credible.

And I say that from following the case and looking at the various aspects of it.

He admitted himself he is a dishonest individual and he is more than happy to do whatever he needs to get himself out of any situation.

It very much tainted the case, and I would ask why he was ever considered a suitable candidate for the witness protection programme.

I do think there needs to be legislation introduced around the use of convicted criminals in murder trials.

Their testimony should not be relied upon unless every word can be independently verified.
Barrister Joe Brolly, for Holland, said: We do not accept that there is a case to answer

Two men are to stand trial for the murder of Dublin crime boss Robbie Lawlor, a judge ordered today.

Adrian Holland, 39, and Patrick Teer, 48, are jointly accused of involvement in a plot which led to the gangland figures assassination in north Belfast four years ago.

Lawlor, 36, was shot dead in broad daylight outside Holland's home at Etna Drive in the Ardoyne area on April 4, 2020.

The killing formed part of a violent drugs dispute between rival criminal factions with connections to Drogheda, Dublin and Sligo.

Neither Holland nor Teer, from Thornberry Hill in Belfast, are suspected of being the gunman.

Adrian 'Aidy' Holland

Instead, they have both been charged with the murder as part of a joint enterprise with unidentified others.

The pair, who are currently remanded in custody, face further counts of conspiracy to murder and possessing a 9mm self-loading pistol with intent to endanger life.

They appeared together at Belfast Magistrates Court today via video-link from Maghaberry Prison for a preliminary enquiry hearing.

Defence lawyers disputed claims there is sufficient prima facie evidence to prosecute their clients.

Barrister Joe Brolly, for Holland, said: We do not accept that there is a case to answer, but we will not be making any submissions (at this stage)."

He indicated that a legal bid to have the prosecution halted will instead be mounted when it reaches the Crown Court.

During the brief hearing Holland and Teer confirmed they understood the charges.

When asked if they wanted to call any witnesses or give evidence, both men replied: Not at this time.

Granting the Public Prosecution Services application, District Judge Steven Keown told the pair: You will be returned for trial at Belfast Crown Court on a date to be fixed.

He agreed to certify for senior and junior counsel to represent each defendant due to the seriousness of the charges.
KYODO NEWS - Apr 18, 2023 - 20:50 | All, World

U.S. authorities have arrested two individuals for allegedly operating an unauthorized "police station" in New York for the Chinese government, the Attorney's Office said Monday.

The prosecutors said the two, aged 61 and 59, "worked together to establish the first known overseas police station in the United States" on behalf of the Fuzhou branch of the Chinese Ministry of Public Security in an office building in Manhattan's Chinatown.

The illegal police station opened in early 2022 and closed in the fall of that year, the office said.

Breon Peace, attorney for the Eastern District of New York, accused the Chinese government of a "flagrant violation of our nation's sovereignty."

The arrests came after the Federal Bureau of Investigation probed allegations that the police station was used to encourage Chinese nationals suspected of wrongdoing to return home from the United States.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said Tuesday in Beijing the alleged overseas police station "does not exist at all," claiming that the country "strictly abides by international law and respects the judicial sovereignty of all countries.

"We hope that relevant parties will not hype up and make use of the issue," he added.

Related coverage:

Japan probed China Communist Party member over leaking farm tech data
Ozlet Muwaniri (35) was arrested after causing two separate public order disturbances on the same day

A drunken woman was found shouting incoherently in a shopping centre about aliens and Jesus, a court heard.

Ozlet Muwaniri (35) was arrested after causing two separate public order disturbances on the same day.

Judge Deirdre Gearty fined her 150 after hearing the accused had been drinking and not taking her medication for mental health issues.

Muwaniri, of Crann Nua, Portarlington, Co Laois, admitted two offences of public intoxication, and threatening, abusive or insulting behaviour on May 24 last year.

Blanchardstown District Court heard gardai were called to Paddocks Grove, Adamstown.

Muwaniri told them to f**k off and mind your own business and refused to stop shouting.

Also that day, gardai were called to Finnstown Shopping Centre, Lucan, where Muwaniri was outside a shop talking to people walking by.

It was obvious to gardai that people were trying to avoid her. She was standing in the shop doorway with a number of bags and gardai asked what she was doing there.

Muwaniri smelled strongly of alcohol, was incoherent and was talking about aliens and Jesus and how they were coming back.

She shouted at passers-by. The accused had not been looking after herself or taking her medication, her barrister said.

Judge Gearty told the accused it was ill-advised to drink while on medication and she cant be behaving like that.
Nicola Tallant chats with Dutch journalist Jan Meeus about the feared European drug cartel and the case that has rocked The Netherlands.

THE Marengo case against super-cartel kingpin Ridouan Taghi is drawing to a close in the Netherlands, where state prosecutors are seeking a life sentence for the feared gangster and a number of his senior lieutenants.

Decrypted messages taken from a series of secretive phone networks used by criminals - including Encrochat and Ennetcom - have formed the backbone of the case and include evidence that Taghi ordered murders and drug shipments from his Dubai bolthole while partnered up with Daniel Kinahan.

Nicola Tallant is joined by Jan Meeus, crime correspondent and podcaster with Amsterdams NRC media outlet, to discuss the Marengo trial, an appeal which may hear the first evidence of super-cartel supergrass Raffael Imperiale and an eerie calm that has settled in a country exhausted by narco terrorism.

Crime World Podcast can be found on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts and Soundcloud.

MORE EPISODES 
Nicola Tallant and Niall Donald revisit the evidence given at trial as the big day looms

GERRY The Monk Hutch will learn his fate on Monday when three judges from the Special Criminal Court return with a verdict after his lengthy murder trial.

The stakes couldnt be higher for the veteran criminal, who faces either freedom or a life sentence behind bars. Nicola Tallant and Niall Donald revisit the evidence given at trial as the big day looms and the judges reveal whether they believe he is guilty or not.

Crime World Podcast can be found on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts and Soundcloud.

MORE EPISODES 
Nicola Tallant and Niall Donald discuss the extraordinary verdict in the Special Criminal Court and the judges damning indictment of State witness Jonathan Dowdall

GERRY The Monk Hutch walked free from court an innocent man after being found not guilty of the murder of David Byrne at the Regency Hotel.

After a dramatic end to proceedings and a sensational judgement that branded State witness Jonathan Dowdall a callous, base and violent criminal who lied repeatedly to the court, Hutch was told the case against him had not been proven.

Nicola Tallant talks with Niall Donald about Justice Tara Burns' lengthy judgement at the Special Criminal Court after she and Judges Sarah Berkeley and Grainne Malone worked into the early hours, about the damning remarks relating to Dowdalls entry to witness protection, and the questions that remain about what went on behind the scenes after he was charged with murder.

Crime World Podcast can be found on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts and Soundcloud.

MORE EPISODES 
It is understood Price, who has fled the area, owns property in the industrial estate

The scene of the arson attack in the Lansdowne Road area of Newtownards   Kevin Scott

The scene of the arson attack in the Lansdowne Road area of Newtownards   Kevin Scott

An early morning arson attack in Co Down is being linked to a ongoing loyalist feud.

Detectives are appealing for information following an arson attack at a business in the Landsdowne Industrial Estate area of Newtownards in the early hours of yesterday morning.

The premises damaged are on the edge of the West Winds housing estate which has been at the epicentre of a near month long feud between rival criminal gangs.

Sources in the area have told the Sunday World this latest in incident was aimed at crime boss Adrian Price  leader of the self-styled Real UFF which has been targeted by a rival loyalist gang linked to the mainstream UDA.

Adrian Price

It is understood Price, who has fled the area, owns property in the industrial estate.

Police have appealed for information.

Detective Sergeant Shivers said: At approximately 3.20am, we received a report that a number of vehicles had been set on fire at a car dealership.

Officers along with colleagues from the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service attended and the fire was extinguished.

Adrian Price target of early morning arson attack in Newtownards

Approximately 25 cars and a trailer have been badly damaged in the blaze.

We are investigating this as an incident of arson. This was a completely reckless attack which could have had serious consequences. Thankfully, no injuries have been reported.

He conceded a line of enquiry was that is linked to the feud.

The scene of the arson attack in the Lansdowne Road area of Newtownards   Kevin Scott

At the present time we are keeping an open mind as to the motivation behind this attack however a primary line of enquiry is that it is linked to the ongoing feud between rival drugs gangs across Ards and North Down.

I would appeal to anyone who may have seen anyone suspicious in the area at the time of the fire or to anyone with dash-cam or CCTV footage that could assist with enquiries, to contact detectives on 101 quoting reference 108 of 18/04/23."

Price is believed to have sought sanctuary in east Belfast where he is under the protection of an organised crime boss.

A rump of his crime gang remain holed up in Weavers Grange in the West Winds. There has been a raft of attacks on property and people across North Down and the Ards Peninsula in the last month

Anyone with any information about this incident or who may be able to help with the investigation, is asked to call detectives in Larne on the non-emergency number 101 quoting reference number 100 29/04/21, or to submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via http://www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/.

You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at http://crimestoppers-uk.org/.
It is being investigated as an attack linked to a simmering local dispute in the Tallaght area of Dublin.

A young man is in a critical condition in hospital tonight after he was allegedly deliberately run over by a vehicle.

It is being investigated as an attack linked to a simmering local dispute in the Tallaght area of Dublin.

Sources say that the incident is being linked to a number of tit-for-tat incidents that happened in the the Kiltalown area of the west Dublin suburb.

Initial reports suggested that a firearm had been discharged in the dispute but gardai could not confirm this tonight.

The man who was very seriously injured is understood to have been knocked down by the vehicle while another young man involved in the altercation has suffered less serious non-life threatening injuries which were initially described as unexplained.

It is understood that there was a number of earlier incidents of damage to property as part of the violent row which ultimately resulted in the victim being rammed off the road according to a source.

Shortly after 5pm, on Monday 17th April 2023, gardai and emergency services were alerted following reports of an incident in the Kiltalown area of Tallaght, a garda spokesman said in a statement issued to Independent.ie.

Two males (20s) injured in the course of the incident were removed by ambulance to Tallaght Hospital.

One of males is currently in a critical condition, while injures to the second male are not described as life threatening.

A number of scenes in the Kiltalown area are preserved for examination and enquires are ongoing, he added.

It is understood that the local dispute has been ongoing in recent weeks between young men who were formerly associates of each other.

It is alleged that some of those involved in the dispute have links to serious criminality on a national level.

No arrests have yet been made in the case which is being investigated by Tallaght gardai.
Tallaght man Gavin Guerrine remains in a serious condition in hospital today after the incident

A 31-year-old man who was left with horrific injuries after he was allegedly deliberately run over by a car yesterday evening has served a jail sentence for a similar offence.

Tallaght man Gavin Guerrine remains in a serious condition in hospital today after the incident which is linked to a tit-for-tat dispute in the Kiltalown area of the west Dublin suburb.

A house was also shot-up in the course of the dispute but there has been no arrests so far.

He was one of two men hospitalised after the dispute and the other man who is aged in his 20s suffered less serious injuries.

Mr Guerrine who is originally from the capitals south inner city previously served five years in jail for driving over a man he believed was involved in the gun murder of his brother Darren who was shot dead in Bluebell in February, 2008.

Fourteen months later Gavin drove over Christopher ORourke leaving him brain damaged and in a coma when Guerrine, who was aged just 17 at the time, drove towards them at speed.

He mounted the kerb and sent Mr ORourke flying 20ft into the air, according to one eyewitness, before driving off at speed.

Mr O'Rourke was rushed to St James's Hospital where he remained in a coma with a severe brain injury for a number of weeks.

Mr O'Rourke made two attempts to take his own life in 2010 and died one month after his 25th birthday in August 2010, from a drugs overdose.

In January 2011, Guerrine was sentenced to 10 years with the last five years suspended on certain conditions, after pleading guilty to intentionally or recklessly causing serious harm to Christopher ORourke in April 2009.

Darren Guerrine

The final five years of the ten-year sentence were suspended on condition Guerrine be of good behaviour for a decade and have no contact with the ORourke family.

Among the terms of the suspended sentence were that Guerrine was to remain under probation supervision for ten years and have no contact with the injured party in this case.

The period of suspension, relating to a conviction for causing serious harm, would not expire until June 2, 2024.

Gavin Guerrine was summoned to appear before the Central Criminal Court in February of this year where he was warned that if he fails again to engage with the probation services, he could serve five years of his suspended sentence.

If you come back before me for further breaches, I will reactivate the sentence, Mr Justice Paul McDermott told Gavin Guerrine with a listed address at Church Grove, Tallaght, after the court heard that Guerrine had failed to keep his probation appointments due to illness.

The judge said he would not activate the suspended sentence and told Guerrine that if there was a good reason for not attending then the probation services needed to know.

He warned him that if he came back before the court for any further breaches, the suspended sentence would be activated.

Since this court appearance around six weeks ago, it is understood that associates of Mr Guerrine have been involved in a bitter local dispute in the Tallaght area that was at the centre of yesterdays violent and chaotic scenes.

Last night gardai made an appeal for information in the case.

Gardai in Tallaght are investigating following the unlawful discharge of a firearm and a collision involving a car and a pedestrian in Jobstown, Dublin 24, on Monday the 17th of April, 2023, a spokesman said.

Shortly after 5pm, Gardai and Emergency Services responded to reports of an incident in the Kiltalown area of Jobstown.

In the course of the incident a number of shots were fired at a house and a man in his 30s was seriously injured after he was stuck by a car.

The injured man was removed from the scene by Ambulance to Tallaght Hospital where his condition is described as critical but stable.

A second male (20s) injured in the course of the incident was also removed to Tallaght Hospital. His injuries are not life threatening.

Shortly after the incident a car was discovered on fire and abandoned on Mount Seskin Road.

A number of crime scenes are currently preserved for forensic and technical examination.

An incident room has been established at Tallaght Garda Station and a SIO has been appointed in the case. No arrests have been made at this time.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the incident room at Tallaght Garda Station 01-6666000, the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station, he added.
Cars are parked and driving on these paths and going up onto the pavement to get past

A protest took place this morning on Dublins Richmond Road where drivers who mount the footpath are posing a serious threat to safety.

Locals have taken action after the narrow road which they say has become a rat run is an accident waiting to happen.

Residents are also fed up with what they have described as parking chaos when matches are played in Tolka Park or Croke Park.

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The protest that is organised by the Richmond Road and Grace Park Residents Association is calling for something to be done and the immediate introduction of a parking permit scheme.

Local councillor Donna Cooney, who attend the protest this morning, said: It's a very dangerous road.

People have to walk on these paths which take them to work and school, she told 98FM. Cars are parked and driving on these paths and going up onto the pavement to get past and means it's not a safe place to be.

She added: There is no safe place on this road. It's not designed for the traffic that's on it and nothing is being done.''
EU Ambassador Aidan OHara was assaulted by a group of men at his residence in the capital city of Khartoum yesterday

The Tanaiste Micheal Martin has described an attack on the Irish ambassador in Sudan as gross violation of the Vienna convention.

EU Ambassador Aidan OHara was assaulted by a group of men at his residence in the capital city of Khartoum yesterday.

The 58-year-old was not seriously hurt, according to Newstalk.

However, Tanaiste Micheal Martin said he was deeply concerned.

Deeply concerned at serious incident at home of the EU Ambassador to Sudan, he said.

Thoughts are with outstanding Irish diplomat serving EU in difficult circumstances, and his family.

He called for an urgent cessation to the violence in Sudan and for dialogue to begin.

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The EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell Fontelles condemned the assault on Twitter last night.

A few hours ago, the EU Ambassador in Sudan was assaulted in his own residency, he wrote.

This constitutes a gross violation of the Vienna Convention.

Security of diplomatic premises and staff is a primary responsibility of Sudanese authorities and an obligation under international law.

Borrell did not name the ambassador, but a spokesperson for the European External Action Service confirmed it is Aidan OHara, from Ireland.

The spokesperson said the ambassador is OK and we are in touch with him, adding that he is continuing his duties.

The EU delegation has not been evacuated following the incident; however, security at the ambassadors residence is being assessed.

Hundreds of people have been killed and more than 1,800 injured since fighting broke out in Sudan three days ago, between the army and a paramilitary group called the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

The violence erupted over the weekend between army units loyal to General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, head of Sudans transitional governing Sovereign Council, and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, led by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo.

The two sides were once allied after a 2021 coup and the 2019 ousting of leader Omar Bashir, but disagreement escalated over integrating the RSF into the armed forces under an internationally backed transition plan, in addition to other factors.

Civilians have been sheltering in their homes and the city of Khartoum has seen air strikes, shelling and heavy small-arms fire.

The Department of Foreign Affairs said it has been in contact with Mr. O'Hara who was appointed as the EU Ambassador to Sudan last year.
2 million a year research funding for former chief medical officer Dr Tony Holohan was made without government approval or knowledge of Health Minister, report finds

A commitment to give Trinity College 2 million a year in ring-fenced funding as part of a research package linked to a university post for former chief medical officer Dr Tony Holohan was made without government approval or the knowledge of the Minister for Health, a report has revealed.

It bypassed all established protocols.

The report carried out by former Unicef chief Maura Quinn followed the controversy last year around the botched plan to appoint Dr Holohan to a professorship as Professor of Public Health Strategy and Leadership in Trinity College Dublin while still on his 187,000 a year salary from the Department of Health.

Dr Holohan should not have been exclusively personally involved in the negotiation of research funding linked to his possible secondment, she concluded.

The substantial proposed funding commitment of 2 million a year until the retirement of Dr Holohan by-passed all of the accepted protocols for research funding and was linked atypically to one named individual.

The Department of Health press office had announced in March 25 last year that Dr Holohan would be taking up a post in Trinity College but it did not say it was secondment and he would remain an employee of the Department of Health or that 2m a year in funding would be directed to Trinity College.

Following the controversy Dr Holohan decided not to take the post and stepped down in July.

It appears that the Minister for Health knew of the proposed move to Trinity by the chief medical officer but not of the secondment details nor the research funding element.

It appears that An Taoiseach had no knowledge of the proposed secondment and associated funding elements nor did other Members of Government. It also appears that the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform had no knowledge of the matter, said the report.

Tony Holohan

A letter of intent sent to Trinity on March 16 last was signed by Department of Health Secretary General Robert Watt.

The only other two people with knowledge of its contents were Dr Holohan and the Department of Healths Head of Strategic HR.

The report referred to media coverage on April 5  the date the Irish Independent carried a story saying Dr Holohan would be on secondment and would remain on his Department of Health salary.

This led to Mr Watt preparing a briefing note for the Taoiseach confirming the secondment.

On the same day a briefing note was made for the Minister for Health before a Morning Ireland interview on April 6 but it only focussed on secondment and not the funding.

The report, which has been unpublished since last July, said there appears to have been some awareness in 2021 that Dr Holohan was planning to move on from his role.

As a consequence of the pandemic, these plans were put on hold by the Chief Medical Officer, until February 2022.

The Secretary General, Department of the Taoiseach, had a number of private conversations with the chief medical officer about such a move.

There was acute sensitivity by the chief medical officer and the Secretary General, Department of Health, that details of a possible move by Holohan would not be leaked.

The discussions on this matter were between the Secretary General of the Department of Health and Dr Holohan and all actions by the chief medical officer were agreed with the Secretary General of the Department of Health.

Dr Holohan approached University College Dublin and Trinity College Dublin. The Head of Strategic HR was involved in the discussions about the secondment element of such a move.

We do not know why discussions did not proceed with UCD whereas Trinity College Dublin expressed keen interest in pursuing the matter of a possible secondment to the College and Professorship for Dr Holohan.

The proposed secondment of the Chief Medical Officer to Trinity College Dublin and the associated research funding commitments should not have been linked together.

The chief medical officer should not have been exclusively personally involved in the negotiation of research funding linked to his possible secondment.

The absence of any consultation with the Health Research Board from the outset, on the proposed research funding element, is a deficit, as is the lack of detail on the governance over the proposed funding to Trinity College Dublin.

The substantial proposed funding commitment of 2 million a year until the retirement of the chief medical officer, by-passed all of the accepted protocols for research funding and was linked atypically to one named individual.

The commitment to Trinity College Dublin by the Department of Health of 2 million per year for research funding (to include University Departments of Public Health and others) and the subsequent declaration that this would be subject subsequently to competitive funding is unusual and outside the regular HRB processes.

The report contains statements which highlight disputes over who knew what.

Mr Watt said he shared all critical details with the secretary general of the Department of the Taoiseach at the time Martin Fraser and that he also told then Taoiseach Michael Martins adviser, Deirdre Gillane, of the appointment.

Ms Gillane said these assertions are grossly inaccurate.

Mr Fraser said he knew of the main elements of the appointment but not of the processes for the allocation of the research funding or the potential sources of the funding.

In a statement today, Dr Holohan said that when he sought the move from his role as chief medical officer, it was at all times with the full knowledge and support of the secretaries general of the Department of Health and the Department of the Taoiseach.

He said formal engagement only happened after receiving the support and approval from the Secretary General of the Department of Health.

He said he welcomed the publication of the report albeit delayed. He wrote to the Minister for Health some time ago urging its conclusion and publication.

He said he regrets a valuable opportunity to benefit the future of Irelands public health has been lost .He is gratified the report confirms the engagement of Trinity and UCD was beyond reproach.

He said he hoped there will be learnings for the government departments involved and that by implementing the reports recommendations there will be improved clarity and competence in any future initiatives of this kind.
By Keita Nakamura, KYODO NEWS - Apr 18, 2023 - 19:42 | All, World, G7

KARUIZAWA, Japan - The Group of Seven foreign ministers on Tuesday demonstrated that they are on the same page on Taiwan, declaring that peace for the island is an "indispensable element" of global security, while urging China to behave responsibly as a member of the international community. The display of G-7 unity over Taiwan came after French President Emmanuel Macron had called for European countries not to be "followers" of either the United States or China amid the two countries' escalating rivalry over the self-ruled democratic island, which Beijing views as its own territory. In a communique released after their three-day meeting in the resort town of Karuizawa in central Japan, the foreign ministers emphasized "there is no change in the basic positions of the G-7 members on Taiwan." The top diplomats from Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United States, plus the European Union, also committed to intensifying sanctions imposed on Russia since its invasion of Ukraine began last year and demanded Russian forces' immediate and unconditional withdrawal.

They vowed to counter sanctions evasion by Moscow and warned of the "severe costs" that third parties could face if they do not stop providing assistance for Russia's war effort. They also specifically called on Iran to halt support for the Russian military, including the transfer of drones that have been used in Ukraine.

Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi, who chaired the meeting, hailed the outcome of the talks, which were intended to lay the groundwork for the G-7 summit to be held from May 19 to 21 in Hiroshima, western Japan.

"It is significant that we were able to confirm our commitment to the free and open international order based on the rule of law and our strong opposition to unilateral attempts to change the status quo anywhere in the world," he said.

Noting the "clear unanimity" over the Taiwan issue, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken told a separate press conference, "We actually have not seen greater convergence at any other time in the approach than we see now, both with Europe as well as with key countries in Asia."

While condemning Russia's threat to deploy nuclear weapons in its ally Belarus as "unacceptable," the G-7 also committed in the communique to the "ultimate goal" of a world without nuclear weapons, achieved through what they called a realistic and pragmatic approach.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, who represents a constituency in Hiroshima, has been hoping to pitch his signature vision of a world without nuclear weapons at the summit, which will bring together leaders of the G-7, a grouping that includes nuclear powers Britain, France and the United States.

The G-7 members also urged other leaders and youths to visit Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the sites of the world's only nuclear attacks.

The foreign ministerial gathering took place after Macron sparked controversy in the United States and Europe when he warned in a media interview released after his trip to China earlier this month against being drawn into a crisis over Taiwan driven by an "American rhythm and a Chinese overreaction."

Tensions in the Taiwan Strait have been ticking up, with a meeting between Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen and U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Kevin McCarthy in Los Angeles earlier this month triggering Chinese military drills.

In line with past G-7 statements, the latest communique emphasized "the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait" while airing serious concern about the situation in the East and South China seas, where Beijing is aggressively pursuing its territorial claims.

"We strongly oppose any unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion," the G-7 foreign ministers said.

Beijing regards Taiwan as a renegade province to be reunified with the Communist-governed mainland, by force if necessary.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin expressed Beijing's "strong dissatisfaction and firm objection" to the G-7 statement and said it has lodged stern representations with Japan, which hosted the meeting.

The G-7 foreign ministers "grossly interfered in China's internal affairs and maliciously smeared" the country, he told a press conference in Beijing, adding that their statement is "full of arrogance, prejudice and sinister intentions to oppose and contain China."

In the communique, the G-7 foreign ministers at the same time highlighted the necessity of working together with Beijing on global challenges, including climate change.

"We reiterate our call for China to act as a responsible member of the international community," they said. "We stand prepared to work together to build constructive and stable relations through dialogue."

The G-7 expressed concern about China's "accelerating expansion" of its nuclear arsenal, and strongly condemned North Korea's repeated weapons tests in violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions, including an intercontinental ballistic missile launch on Thursday.

In an apparent effort to pursue broader cooperation in pushing back against China and Russia, the G-7 ministers vowed to work with like-minded countries, including emerging and developing economies.

During the three-day meeting, they had a session focusing on the "Global South," with many of the countries, including India, taking a neutral position over the Ukraine conflict and refraining from imposing punitive steps on Moscow.

Related coverage:

G-7 vows to tackle Russian sanction evasion, weapon supply via others

FOCUS: Japan's G-7 leadership role faces tests at decarbonization talks

Japan, U.S. vow to uphold rules-based order, cooperate on N. Korea
The make-up artist and daughter of RTE legend Gerry Ryan described how she got the new tattoo at the weekend

Bonnie Ryan has revealed the delicate new tattoo that fans believe is in honour of hubby John Greenhalgh.

Bonnie offered her followers a glimpse of the tiny tat in a video she shared on social media from her Dublin home.

The make-up artist and daughter of RTE legend Gerry Ryan described how she got the new tattoo at the weekend.

It has the little healing thing over it so I need this on till I think they said four or five days, she said.

She later posted a picture of the letter 'J' tattooed on the inside of her upper arm.

While she didn't expressly say that the inking was for her partner, the couple's first wedding anniversary is coming up next month.

The tiny 'J' on Bonnie's arm

The teenage sweethearts tied the knot in lavish style with a wedding in Italy last May surrounded by their loved ones.

However, Bonnie took to social media in January to ask her followers to stop asking if she is pregnant.

The 30-year-old posted a message on Instagram to ask fans to lay-off with the non-stop questions.

"Gals, I love you all but can you stop asking me am I pregnant, she said.

"Its non-stop, I am not pregnant (not that it is anybodys business).

"I thought by now people know it's not appropriate to say this to people? So once again, I am not pregnant and it is not on the cards for me right now.

"Maybe one day.

The stunning social media star boasts 115k followers and has been candid about life with her husband John  whose face and identity she keeps private.

Bonnie was forced to hit back at a fan who called her annoying for concealing his face in photos.

"Beautiful content but so annoying leaving ur husband out of everything.. He is not a child lol might as well not have him in anything at all... they said.

Bonnie dubbed the message very weird and explained:

"Just because my job is online doesn't mean he has to have his face known. I'm showing him respect to his privacy.

I know most people who follow me know I keep certain things in my life private, Ive tried my best to show wedding content while being respectful to the fact my husband doesnt want to be on social media.

A lot of messages like this and I just want you to know this isnt like something I think is gas that I dont show him, its respect for him and what we have chosen for us.

The influencer has also been open about life following the loss of her dad Gerry  who died when she was just 17 years old in 2010.

During an interview with Georgie Crawford on The Good Glow podcast, Bonnie said that although she has a great life, she misses her father being there for the big moments.

I really think that anyone who has lost anybody, whether it's a parent or a friend, you will go on to have a really happy life.

"Even though you have gone through something so sad, you are able to go on and have all those really happy moments in life and not always be thinking about the sad thing that you've gone through, she explained.

"But then also as I move on in life and I get to have all these big moments, or just live my life, I'm like 'God, it would be so cool if he could be here to see this."
KYODO NEWS - Apr 18, 2023 - 20:46 | All, Japan

The suspect in an explosives attack on Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida during the weekend may have harbored a grudge after failing to qualify as a candidate for the upper house election last year, court documents showed Tuesday.

Ryuji Kimura, 24, has remained silent after being arrested at the scene for throwing an explosive device at Kishida just before the prime minister was about to make a stump speech Saturday in the city of Wakayama, western Japan. Kishida was not injured.

According to the records, Kimura filed a lawsuit with the Kobe District Court in June last year, seeking 100,000 yen ($740) in damages for mental distress after he was unable to file candidacy for a House of Councillors election held the following month.

He claimed the requirement of being at least 30 years old and paying a 3 million yen deposit to run in the election violated the Constitution that guarantees equality under the law.

Kimura also submitted a document criticizing Kishida's Cabinet for holding a state funeral for the late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, saying the event was "forced through with only Cabinet approval" and without parliamentary deliberations, adding "such a challenge to democracy cannot be tolerated."

Abe was fatally shot last July during a stump speech in the western city of Nara before the upper house election. The subsequent state-funded funeral divided public opinion over its costs and the possibility of it being used to cement a positive legacy for the divisive former leader.

But the district court in November dismissed the case, in which Kimura had represented himself, on the grounds that both the age restriction and deposit were reasonable requirements. He appealed to the Osaka High Court, with a ruling slated to be handed down in May.

Hideo Okamoto, a professor of clinical psychology at Nara Women's University, said Kimura "may have thought (the Kishida) administration blocked his candidacy" and wanted to retaliate.

Kimura was also found to have participated in a city assembly debriefing session held by a local assemblywoman affiliated with the Liberal Democratic Party in September last year in which he told participating LDP lawmaker Masaki Ogushi that the age restriction for candidates in local elections should be lowered from 25.

Kimura said he wanted to run for a city council election, according to Ogushi's office.

Ogushi described the encounter as unusual in which the conversation continued for about 20 minutes.

Meanwhile, Kimura's family was quoted by investigative sources as saying he "was at home until around midnight Friday but was gone by morning."

At around 11:25 a.m. on Saturday, an explosive device was thrown toward Kishida from within a crowd. Kimura was caught about 10 meters from the prime minister, with the device -- believed to be a homemade pipe bomb -- landing about one meter from Kishida.

According to the LDP headquarters, the party released Kishida's schedule for Saturday on its website the evening before, and an LDP election candidate also posted the prime minister's speech plans on social media.

Related coverage:

Suspect in Japan PM explosives attack carried devices onboard trains

Japan PM denounces explosive attack just before stump speech

Japan PM Kishida unhurt after explosion during campaigning
A horrific 12 hours on the road has seen seven people lose their lives.

Police are urging everyone to take responsibility and make good decisions every time they get behind the wheel.

The most recent fatality occurred in Ngongotaha on Monday, after a motorcyclist collided with another vehicle at the intersection of Dalbeth Road and SH36 at around 11am.

The motorcyclist was taken to hospital but later passed away, says national road policing director Superintendent Steve Greally.

"Yesterday morning, three people were killed in a crash near Geraldine, another two people died following a crash on the Waikato Expressway, and one person died in a crash in Dargaville.

"Its horrific to have so many lives lost in such a short amount of time."

Steve says police are committed to reducing the number of deaths and serious injuries caused by crashes on the roads.

"We will continue to focus on people speeding and continue to pull over drivers who are not focused on what they are doing.

"However, police alone cannot change the number of people dying on our roads and nor can our road safety partners.

"Every road user needs to play their part in getting to where they are going safely.

"I feel for the families and friends who are grieving the loss of their loved ones right now.

"Their lives have been changed forever.

"So lets all play our part in taking better care on the road.

"Please pay attention to the road, if youve been drinking  dont drive, and always wear your seatbelt or helmet if youre a rider."
Among the huge number of entries at this seasons New Zealand Junior Motocross Championships in Southland at the weekend, there was one individual in particular who really made the most of things  Silverdales Seth Morrow.

Despite forcing himself to race twice as many times as most of the riders attending the three-day event at the Sandpit Track, on the fringes of Invercargill, the 15-year-old LMC Husqvarna Racing Team rider still had the stamina and talent to place himself on the podium in two separate bike categories.

Morrow won the 15-16 years 125cc class (on his TC125 model bike) and he also finished third overall in the 14-16 years 250cc class (on his FC250 model bike).

He had finished runner-up in the 250cc class last season, but still rode incredibly well to take the final podium spot in the same class this time around, on this occasion finishing behind Pukehinas Flynn Watts and Levins Phoenix Van Dusschoten.

Morrow celebrated winning the 15-16 years 125cc class, but it was a close thing, with the former Southland rider only getting the nod on a countback after he and Richmonds Wills Harvey finished the weekend tied on points.

However, Morrows superior score-sheet  the Husqvarna star winning three of the weekends five races in this class, compared to Harveys single race win  was enough to tip the balance in Morrows favour.

It was a tough weekend for me for sure, but thats what I had been training for, says Morrow. And actually, having the extra races meant I was in tune with the changing track.

My last 125 race was particularly tough and I only finished fifth. The organisers worked the count-back on who had the most wins over the event, so that panned out for me.

I have done countless hours on this track because we used to live just a few minutes away from it. But this time we had a very long drive from Silverdale (north of Auckland) to the bottom of the South Island.

Morrow is no stranger to winning national motocross titles  he took his Husqvarna TC125 to win the younger 12-14 years 125cc class title when the junior nationals were held in Taranaki last season.

Meanwhile, fellow Husqvarna rider Connor Feather, from Taupo, took his Watson Racing TC65 to win the 8-11 years' 65cc class at the weekend.

Other class winners at the event were Leestons Kase Thoms (12-14 years 125cc class); Otorohangas Cooper Phillips (14-16 years 85cc/150cc class); Mangakinos Maz Parkes (12-13 years 85cc/150cc class); Ohokas Levi McMaster (8-11 years 85cc/150cc class); Raetihis Karaitiana Horne (12-16 years 125cc/250cc girls class) and Whangareis Hannah Perris (12-16 years 85cc/150cc girls class).

-By Andy McGechan, www.BikesportNZ.com
British man arrested after doorman dies following brawl at Towie star Elliot Wright's Mijas restaurant The 55-year-old victim, Jose Rafael Pisani Pardo, had tried to break up a fight among customers at the weekend

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Police have arrested a 32-year-old man, reported to be British, over an alleged assault that resulted in the death of a doorman at former Towie star Elliot Wright's restaurant in Mijas.

Guardia Civil officers arrested the man this Tuesday morning, 18 April, after the horrific incident at Olivia's La Cala on Saturday night.

The 55-year-old victim, Jose Rafael Pisani Pardo, was trying to break up a brawl among customers when he was allegedly struck in the back of the head.

Police said that based on CCTV footage, the suspect, who the doorman had tried to restrain, turned around and threw a punch which knocked the doorman to the floor.

The doorman was rushed to Malaga Regional University Hospital in a serious condition and admitted to intensive care for severe head trauma. He died from his injuries on Sunday.

Olivias La Cala was closed temporarily for two days as a mark of respect to the deceased staff member.

Locals had reported bright pink graffiti spray-painted across the eatery on Tuesday with Spanish words that translated to; "killer Elliot" and "mafia".

The former reality TV star of The Only Way in Essex said Saturday night's horrific incident had left him "heartbroken".

This weekend we lost a much loved and valued member of our team, the restaurant said in a statement on Monday 17 April.

Our hearts are broken and we have closed the restaurant today and tomorrow out of respect.

We are supporting our staff and the family whilst awaiting news of further investigations.

It is the second tragedy to hit the reality TV star's business after it was gutted in a mystery arson attack two years ago. It is still being investigated and no one has ever been arrested. The restaurant, which opened in 2015, was forced to close and needed to be rebuilt.
KYODO NEWS - Apr 18, 2023 - 21:13 | World, All, Japan

The new chief of a group representing Japanese businesses in China said Tuesday he expects Beijing will "fairly treat" a Japanese citizen detained in China last month on suspicion of espionage in accordance with the domestic law.

Panasonic Holdings Corp. Executive Vice President Tetsuro Homma, who newly took the helm of the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry in China, told a press conference in Beijing that the detention of the national has made companies in Japan more aware of the risks of doing business in China.

"We wait for positive developments in the case as soon as possible," Homma said. The detained businessman, who worked for pharmaceutical firm Astellas Pharma Inc., had served as a senior executive of the chamber and helped deepen Japan-China economic cooperation for more than 20 years, he added.

As the chief of the group representing more than 500 Japanese companies in China, Homma said the chamber hopes to help rejuvenate bilateral business exchanges that had been suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Bilateral relations have been characterized as being in a state of 'cold politics, hot economics.' We hope businesses will continue to help advance and develop the two countries' ties," Homma said.

Related coverage:

Businessman detention shocks Japan firms in China, dampens sentiment

Japan demands release of national detained in China for espionage
Santa Fe, N.M.  A judge has agreed to seal from public view the terms of a proposed settlement agreement that benefits the son of slain cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, in a wrongful death lawsuit against actor Alec Baldwin and an array of producers and crew involved linked to Hutchins death in a fatal filmset shooting.

The New Mexico judge cited privacy concerns about Halynas 10-year-old son, Andros Hutchins.
Thirty-two years ago, Rick Nemier picked up his phone and called his local fire department. His six-month-old daughter was having a seizure and needed CPR. The firefighters were able to keep his daughter breathing. The support and care his family received was something Nemier couldnt forget. As the son of a Syracuse firefighter, Nemier was always interested in the job. Watching the firefighters save his daughter inspired him to join a department the way most do: as a volunteer.

Im not a rich man; I dont have a lot of money, Nemier said. But I said, maybe I can give some time. So I walked over to the firehouse, filled out an application. That was in 1990, and I never left.

According to a recent report from the Firefighters Association of the State of New York, volunteer fire departments save New York State taxpayers $4.7 billion annually. But Nemier and others say its becoming harder to attract and keep volunteer firefighters. FASNY officials say the number of volunteer firefighters in New York has decreased from 120,000 to around 80,000 in the last 20 years.

When Nemier started at the all-volunteer Nedrow Fire Department in 1990, he said the station had 45 to 50 members. They were able to go on fire calls while keeping a few people at the station on standby. Now, as the Nedrow chief, he said the department has 16 active members, which makes the job more difficult.

I appreciate all the help they give me, Nemier said. Its not a one-person job. I always make sure I send kudos out to everybody because its a team effort. Without everybody working together, its tough.

Career firefighters are paid and get benefits like dental, life insurance, paid vacation and more. They also tend to work in shifts, allowing them to take time off during the week. Volunteers work on call; they arent required to respond but are always alerted during an emergency. Whoever is available can assist.

John DAlessandro, association secretary for FASNY, said because of the number of volunteer stations, those departments are taking on more calls, despite their small number of firefighters.

You can see that just sheer numbers have dropped significantly, he said. At the same time, volunteer fire departments are going to far more calls, the complexity of those calls is increasing, and were often asked to go outside our own communities to provide assistance in other areas.

Volunteers do not get paid but sometimes receive stipends, bonuses, tax exemptions or funding toward equipment in their station. Earlier this year, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced $10 million would be invested in volunteer firefighter training for recruiting and incentives.

DAlessandro listed the governors funding efforts as a step toward increasing the number of volunteers. Still, he said his association has been working for years to get firefighters more health benefits.

If Im a factory worker and I fall off a ladder in the factory, I would qualify for a much larger payment than if I was a volunteer firefighter and I fell off the ladder, DAlessandro said.

In New York, if firefighters are hurt on the job, they are protected by a program similar to workers compensation called the volunteer firefighter benefit law. DAlessandro said that while the volunteers get coverage, its at a low rate. The risk of being injured and possibly not having enough medical coverage adds to the worries volunteers may have about the job. But, in an Association-led focus group, DAlessandro said they discovered three other reasons why numbers are decreasing: People dont have the time, they dont know where to start and they arent interested in emergency response.

Local departments are now letting their neighborhoods know fighting fires isnt the only way they can help out their station. From bookkeeping to helping direct traffic at a scene, anyone can visit a department and ask how they can help.

Weve kind of created those opportunities, which is thinking outside the box, but it lets the residents in the community be part of the team and helps us out as being part of the team, which is great, said Jon Barrett, second assistant chief in the Cicero Fire Department.

Volunteer firefighters from the Cicero Fire Department respond to a fire in Oswego County.

In the past, it was required to be an interior firefighter to volunteer at a station. But Barrett said as more people are needed, interested community members are welcome, especially those with medical backgrounds.

At the Nedrow department, Nemier is happy to take in as many EMS volunteers as possible.

Before it was, you had to be a firefighter first, Nemier said. But due to the fact that 75% of our calls are EMS related, Im going for the EMS people if they want to come in and be EMS only, and if you want to take care of 75% of my calls, Ill figure out what to do with the rest.

Nemier, who is 65, said the department has members as young as 20 acting as EMS volunteers and assistant chiefs in their early 30s and late 40s. What they all have in common is their dedication to helping their neighborhood and a little extra time on their hands.

If you sit down and figure it out and do a little time management, you can pretty much do the minimal amount of time here and still help us, Nemier said. And if everybody does that, we get another 20 people.
Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, meets with COP28 UAE President-Designate Sultan Al Jaber in Beijing, capital of China, April 18, 2023. (Xinhua/Yue Yuewei)

BEIJING, April 18 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang met with COP28 UAE President-Designate Sultan Al Jaber in Beijing on Tuesday.

Ding, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said that China has made a solemn pledge to strive to peak carbon dioxide emissions before 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality before 2060, which shows China's active participation in global governance in response to climate change.

Ding said China will work actively and prudently toward the goals of reaching peak carbon emissions and carbon neutrality and continue to contribute to climate change response.

China hopes that the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change will firmly uphold multilateralism, focus on implementation and send a positive signal to the international community of cooperation on climate change response through practical actions and promote the comprehensive and effective implementation of the Paris Agreement, Ding added.

Jaber said that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) highly appreciates China's leadership in addressing global challenges and China's achievement in green and low-carbon development.

He added that the UAE hopes to work with China to enhance communication and cooperation to jointly promote the success of the COP28 to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, which will be held in Dubai, the UAE. 
To the Editor:

Microns plans to build a major manufacturing facility in greater Syracuse is an exciting and transformative opportunity for the region. We can expect construction boom, an influx of high-tech workers in high-paying jobs, and a cascade of other related businesses opening in Microns orbit, in addition to the significant investments and engagement the corporation is already making to be a positive force in our community.

The scale of the project also makes it possible for this to be a model for climate-friendly industrial development. The planned 1,400-acre Micron campus is an ideal site for rooftop and parking lot solar arrays that could generate up to 200 megawatts, or about a quarter of the energy the plant is expected to need. It also could be a leader in net-zero construction through its choice of materials and HVAC systems for the building, continuing Syracuses long history of leadership in the green building movement.

Lets start with solar production on the Micron campus. As we seek to ramp up green energy production across the state, we need to avoid having our prime farmland covered over with solar arrays. With its abundant fresh water, New York is poised once again to be the nations breadbasket, and our farmland will become increasingly precious as a result. We should prioritize photovoltaic (PV) installation on developed spaces like large rooftops and parking areas instead. On-site solar has multiple benefits, including reducing building cooling costs and offering shade and snow protection to cars in PV-covered parking lots.

When it comes to heating and cooling the building, Micron has indicated it plans to use natural gas, but recent architectural and HVAC innovations could make that unnecessary. Heat pumps, combined with advanced sensors and energy modeling, offer enormous efficiency gains while allowing for low noise and cleaner indoor air. In facilities as large as the Micron clean rooms, the noise reduction alone would vastly improve working conditions. Innovations in cooling should also be available soon that are worth considering as they become scalable: Chilled beam cooling is far more efficient than traditional air-conditioning and saves on the need for bulky ductwork.

For building materials, climate-conscious architects are moving away from concrete and steel, the production of which emits so much carbon that no amount of energy efficiency in the operation of the building can make up for it. Instead, they are using plywood and mass timber, which are themselves just stored atmospheric carbon, as a way to make handsome and functional net-zero buildings.

These technologies have been tested at scale in places like the Portland International Airport and the California Air Resources Board facility. Wouldnt it be exciting to see innovation like this here in Central New York?

Sen. Rachel May

48th Senate District, New York State Legislature

Syracuse

Related: Micron takes first visible step to building its mega chip plant in Clay
By Kathleen Moore | Times Union, Albany

Albany, N.Y.  The state Education Department has proposed clarifying and adding limits on how and when students can be physically restrained or placed in seclusion in school settings.

The changes are being implemented in response to a Times Union investigation that revealed a high number of instances in which physical restraints and time-out rooms have been used on school children, many times under questionable circumstances.

Among the newspapers findings that led to the proposal: State investigators knew that at schools serving children with disabilities students were being physically restrained in violation of existing state rules, substantiating 214 such cases between 2016 and 2021.

The restraints were allowed on an emergency basis, but data obtained by the Times Union show they have been used regularly  often multiple times per school day  by private and state-operated schools approved to serve students with significant intellectual, developmental or emotional disabilities.

Some students were put in time-out rooms dozens of times a month. In a few cases, students were restrained more than 100 times per month.

The proposal focuses on reducing the usage of restraint and seclusion, but emphasizes that corporal punishment is already prohibited. The Times Union, in a related investigation, also found that hundreds of cases of in-school corporal punishment have been substantiated in recent years, including cases in which students were spanked, slapped, choked, dragged and intimidated with a belt.

The state Board of Regents heard the proposal concerning restraint and seclusion changes on Monday. After a 60-day public comment period, the board will vote on July 23 whether to implement them. The new rules include banning prone restraint and seclusion, but allowing restraint or a timeout if there is an imminent threat to a person. Harm to property does not trigger that threat.

In addition, the changes require same-day notification to parents, written reports after each restraint that list the deescalation techniques used beforehand, and a meeting with administrators after each restraint to discuss how to avoid it in the future.

Regents members, many of whom have worked in schools, said the issue is more about proper training and support than a need for more rules.

They (teachers) want to conform with these very important constraints, said Regents member Frances Wills. It needs to include training, training that is real.

Misbehavior has been skyrocketing since the Covid-19 shutdown and she said teachers are resigning because of it.

Others said it is not as simple as it seems to avoid touching a child when they act out.

You have a 7-year-old who has impulsive behaviors, you try to talk them down ... it never works, said Regents member Susan Mittler. In the meantime, hes thrown a chair, bitten somebody.

Recently, she observed a classroom in which a child went into the hallway and suspended himself from the outside of the stairwell railing, holding on with his legs dangling. Another staffer told the teacher not to touch the child, she said.

She grabbed him by the belt loop and hoisted him back to the ground, Mittler said. I believe she acted in the best interest of the child.

The proposed changes call for widespread training but she said psychologists and counselors are needed.

These rules (restricting restraint) are wonderful, but there isnt support. There is one psychologist for 500 students, Mittler said. We need to let educators know what to do with that one student ... so that child can be appropriately dealt with.

It would be better if a counselor was in the school, available to help, said Regents member Christine Cea.

We really need counselors and psychologists in the school, helping the teachers, she said. Not just in the school for one hour.

Likewise, Regents member Roger Catania noted that sometimes a child is about to hurt themselves or others. He noted restraint would still be allowed in those cases.

Sometimes youre left with few options, he said. Im glad the options are there.

He emphasized that training will be costly. When he trained staff in de-escalation and other such techniques, it was a three to five day program. That meant either hiring substitutes or paying the staffers during the summer.

It is a big challenge, especially with the number of people you need to train. That is a heavy lift, he said. Its an important challenge. It needs to be done.

But the department should press the state for funding for it, he said.

___

(c)2023 the Times Union (Albany, N.Y.)

Visit the Times Union (Albany, N.Y.) at www.timesunion.com
Larry Rulison, Times Union, Albany, N.Y. (TNS)

SCHOHARIE  State Supreme Court Justice Peter Lynch denied a motion Monday by Nauman Hussains legal team to delay the Schoharie limousine crash trial so that prosecutors could subpoena FBI Director Christopher Wray for details on an investigation into Hussains father, a longtime FBI informant with a checkered past.

Lee Kindlon, Hussains Albany attorney, told Lynch during a hearing Monday in Schoharie County Court that Shahed Hussain, who owned the limo company involved in the crash, had been able to break state law and fool the state Department of Motor Vehicles into registering the 31-foot stretch Ford Excursion as a regular SUV with less than 11 passengers.

The falsified 2016 registration allowed the Excursion, which was stretched in 2001 to seat more than 18 people, to escape more stringent regulation by the state, which subjects most stretch limos to a regimen of inspections and certifications close to what school buses receive.

Twenty people died in the Oct. 6, 2018, crash  the worst highway transportation disaster in the U.S. in more than a decade.

Nauman Hussain is facing 20 counts each of criminally negligent homicide and manslaughter. The trial is scheduled to begin May 1.

Kindlon suggested that the recently completed FBI investigation of the crash and its oversight of Shahed Hussain could provide evidence that might help his son at trial  for instance, if the FBI had any role deceiving the DMV or knowledge that their erstwhile informant had been breaking the law with his limousine business.

Shahed Hussain purchased the white 2001 stretch Excursion in July 2016 from another limo company for a few thousand dollars and then registered it in his name.

That is perhaps the original sin in this case, Kindlon argued before Lynch. Why was this allowed to happen in 2016?

Lynch denied Kindlons motion, which sought to delay the trial and force Schoharie County District Attorney Susan Mallery to subpoena the FBI director to testify. After Lynchs denial, Kindlon asked the judge if he would sign a subpoena requiring Wray to testify. Lynch has not yet made a decision, the Schoharie County Court clerks office said.

Shahed Hussain never sought the required state Department of Transportation certification to carry passengers in the limo or get it properly inspected by the DOT.

Instead, he and his son were repeatedly allowed to get a less stringent Department of Motor Vehicles inspection at local auto repair shops in violation of state law. Mallery never charged Shahed Hussain, and has instead suggested that his son was the one who made all the decisions for the limo company.

There is no public evidence that the FBI assisted Shahed Hussain with his registration of the Excursion in 2016, although the Times Union has documented numerous occasions when he would use his role with the FBI in an attempt to bully local government officials and others to back off from his business dealings.

Shahed Hussain worked for years as an antiterrorism informant with the FBI, which sent him around the world in search of alleged terrorists. He also was the star witness at federal terrorism trials in Albany and White Plains.

In early 2018, the elder Hussain returned to his native Pakistan, leaving his son to operate Prestige Limousine, which was uncertified. Shortly after, in March 2018, a state DOT investigator ordered the limo off the road due to safety issues. The Excursion was again ordered off the road in September 2018 after it failed a subsequent inspection.

A month after that order, the limos brakes failed on a steep hill in Schoharie County. It barreled through a restaurant parking lot, killing two bystanders, and then slammed into a ditch. All 17 people aboard as well as the driver died from blunt force trauma.

Prosecutors allege Nauman Hussain failed to properly maintain the vehicle and used a driver who had not been properly trained or drug-tested and lacked the correct license.

In 2021, he accepted a plea deal that would have resulted in four years probation but no jail time. Lynch, who subsequently took over the case following the first judges retirement, last August stunned attendees at Hussains sentencing by announcing that he found the deal to be deficient.

Hussain has appealed Lynchs decision in an attempt to claw back the provisions of the original plea deal struck with the Schoharie County district attorney. That appeal is still being considered by a state Appellate Division panel in Albany.

___

(c)2023 the Times Union (Albany, N.Y.)

Visit the Times Union (Albany, N.Y.) at www.timesunion.com

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
BEIJING, April 18 (Xinhua) -- A series of activities, including academic conferences and science exhibitions, will be held to celebrate the upcoming Space Day of China, which falls on April 24, the China National Space Administration (CNSA) announced Tuesday.

The activities include the China Space Conference, the International Deep Space Exploration Conference, and the China Space Culture and Art Forum, as well as a series of exhibitions on space science popularization, etc., said Lyu Bo, deputy director of the Department of System Engineering of CNSA, at a press conference.

Meanwhile, over 400 other activities such as science popularization lectures, space knowledge competitions, and relevant seminars will be held nationwide.

Lyu noted that Space Day of China aims to inspire the public to learn scientific knowledge, generate innovative ideas, and carry forward the scientific spirit.

"Over the past year, China's space sector has achieved high-quality development and will embark on a new journey this year," he said.

Lyu noted that the CNSA would advance the fourth phase of the lunar exploration program and the planetary exploration project this year. China's space station, Tiangong, has entered a new phase of application and development. In addition, satellites, such as Macao Science 1, would be launched into orbit.

"We will further promote the comprehensive development of space science, space technology, and space applications," Lyu added.

Lyu also noted that over the past decade, the CNSA has cooperated with other countries on several major projects in space exploration, such as the China-Brazil Earth Resource Satellite program, the China-France Oceanography Satellite, as well as the joint study of Chang'e-5 lunar samples, etc.

"The CNSA will continue advancing international cooperation in the sector," he added.

Also at the press conference, Guan Feng, executive director of China's Deep Space Exploration Lab (DSEL), said the lab would promote international cooperation to establish a future international lunar research station.

Starting in 2016, China chose April 24 as the Space Day of China to mark the launch of its first satellite "Dongfanghong-1" into space on April 24, 1970. 
The Taos News delivered to your Taos County address every week for a full year! We offer our lowest mail rates to zip codes in the county. Click Here to See if you Qualify. Plan includes unlimited website access and e-edition print replica online. Your auto pay plan will be conveniently renewed at the end of the subscription period. You may cancel at anytime.
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MANILA, April 18 (Xinhua) -- Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos on Tuesday vowed to step up fight against political violence and illegal drug trade, saying the two are the biggest threat to the country's peace and order.

During a meeting with members of the national and regional peace and order councils at the presidential palace, Marcos noted that violent incidents were rampant after elections last year and people think that the situation has worsened.

He urged the peace and order councils to address the proliferation of illegal or loose firearms that fuel violence in the country, warning about the rise of "warlordism."

Marcos issued the order amid rising killings of politicians in recent months, including the assassination of Marcos' political ally Roel Degamo last month.

"That is true because even one is too much," Marcos said.

The other overwhelming problem confronting the Southeast Asian country's security is violence perpetrated by drug syndicates quarreling over territory with the involvement of some members of police force, Marcos added.

"It stems from the territorial fights over areas where drugs are distributed, who controls the drug trade in that area," Marcos said.

He said officials must watch out for gangsters and stressed the need to dismantle the group's criminal activities. 
Sunil@KA25 Newbie

Join Date: Apr 2023 Location: Bangalore Posts: 8 Thanked: 76 Times

Re: Technik museum Sinshiem Germany

The supersonic beauties!!



The Concorde F-BVFB super sonic jet.

You can climb into the jet and make your way inside all the way to the cockpit!

Lots of information can be found in the Museum home page





The Russian Tupolev TU-144 - The FIRST supersonic jet to reach Mach2!!

Similar to the Concorde you can climb into the jet and reach till the cockpit

This exhibit travelled 4000 kms by land and water all the way from Moscow to Sinsheim.

Again, lots of information can be found at the museum home page





Ilyushin Il-14 in Bulgarian Air Transport





Tupolev





Concorde





The nozzle of the Tupalov





In side the Tuplalov





Inside the Concorde





The cockpit of the Concorde - the days of analog switches - Three (or was it four?) pilots working in absolute tandem and knowing which switch belongs to him/her and activating them at just the right time!!!

I was told that cockpit even these days are mostly analog - as they are usually failsafe - not sure about that though, When ever I have boarded an airplane, the airhostess always told me - your seats are at the other way please





With so many meters and gauges on the dashboard, The average car user who is used to a maximum of 3-4 meters on the dash board will get dizzy and imagine that pilot driving the average car with just three meters on the dash board!!





Landing gear





Nose wheel - Those spikes on the tyre are the reason, which I saw every where in Stuttgart, that pigeons most of the times, sat on the ground and did not bless the people ( know what I mean?) passing thru doorways/ archways and along the edges of buildings





The Rolls-Royce - Snecma engine on the Concorde.





A glider from a flight club at Sinsheim - Thanks to the Canon Powershot 12X zoom and 54X of digital zoom





Inside one of the Cockpit of the aircraft - I am unable to recollect which one it was.





Emergency helicopter MBB Kawasaki





BMS Dallara 192 F1 car





Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 GT





Ferrari's and other beauties from the Photo point





Mercedes beauties from the photo point





The sensational Blue flame - the fastest rocket propelled surface-craft of all times. On October 23, 1970 the American Gary Gabelich set a fantastic new world record with this hybrid between car and rocket, when he reached an average speed of 1014.656 km/h on the Bonneville salt flats. - more details on the museum home page





The Classic Mercedes cars





Rolls-Royce Phantom II 2 1934 120ps





Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost - Immediately after its debut on the market, thanks to the excellent finish, silent running and its reliability, the RR-Silver Ghost was chosen as the "Best car of the World" at the automobile exhibition in London.

This Silver Ghost was built for the Maharajah of Hyderabad - India and was used by the maharajah for decades. There is no spare wheel at the left side and instead a handle for the body guard to hold while he stood guard on the running board (from the exhibit placard)





The 24 Cylinder, 12,600 PS, 850000 ccm displacement - MAN Shiffsmotor built in 1943 (from the placard)





Original U boat motor -

This diesel marine engine built by the MAN company at Augsburg was delivered to the Austrian navy in 1917. this motor was mounted on the Austrian submarine KKU 48, which had two of those engines. After it broke up in 1918, it was used as a power plant in a silver mine in Bolivia. In 1934 it was in Italy and then on it was placed at Sinsheim (from the placard)





The small railway station of Sinsheim is located in a a beautiful and picturesque location. There is a flight club which can be seen in the distance behind the station.





One small aircraft/glider plane making a landing





That is all I could share from what little I could gather in a one day visit.

A single day visit is definitely not the way to do it though.

If some one is interested to visit Sinsheim, better to club the Sinsheim technik museum and the Speyer Museum which is about 35 km from this place and cover both these places in at least 3 to 4 days.



Most of the one line information for the exhibits are from the placards and some are from after searching on the internet. Please excuse me if some incorrect information has crept in.



Thank you for your time. Contunued from Part-II,The supersonic beauties!!The Concorde F-BVFB super sonic jet.You can climb into the jet and make your way inside all the way to the cockpit!Lots of information can be found in the Museum home pageThe Russian Tupolev TU-144 - The FIRST supersonic jet to reach Mach2!!Similar to the Concorde you can climb into the jet and reach till the cockpitThis exhibit travelled 4000 kms by land and water all the way from Moscow to Sinsheim.Again, lots of information can be found at the museum home pageIlyushin Il-14 in Bulgarian Air TransportTupolevConcordeThe nozzle of the TupalovIn side the TuplalovInside the ConcordeThe cockpit of the Concorde - the days of analog switches - Three (or was it four?) pilots working in absolute tandem and knowing which switch belongs to him/her and activating them at just the right time!!!I was told that cockpit even these days are mostly analog - as they are usually failsafe - not sure about that though, When ever I have boarded an airplane, the airhostess always told me - your seats are at the other way pleaseWith so many meters and gauges on the dashboard, The average car user who is used to a maximum of 3-4 meters on the dash board will get dizzy and imagine that pilot driving the average car with just three meters on the dash board!!Landing gearNose wheel - Those spikes on the tyre are the reason, which I saw every where in Stuttgart, that pigeons most of the times, sat on the ground and did not bless the people ( know what I mean?) passing thru doorways/ archways and along the edges of buildingsThe Rolls-Royce - Snecma engine on the Concorde.A glider from a flight club at Sinsheim - Thanks to the Canon Powershot 12X zoom and 54X of digital zoomInside one of the Cockpit of the aircraft - I am unable to recollect which one it was.Emergency helicopter MBB KawasakiBMS Dallara 192 F1 carMercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 GTFerrari's and other beauties from the Photo pointMercedes beauties from the photo pointThe sensational Blue flame - the fastest rocket propelled surface-craft of all times. On October 23, 1970 the American Gary Gabelich set a fantastic new world record with this hybrid between car and rocket, when he reached an average speed of 1014.656 km/h on the Bonneville salt flats. - more details on the museum home pageThe Classic Mercedes carsRolls-Royce Phantom II 2 1934 120psRolls-Royce Silver Ghost - Immediately after its debut on the market, thanks to the excellent finish, silent running and its reliability, the RR-Silver Ghost was chosen as the "Best car of the World" at the automobile exhibition in London.This Silver Ghost was built for the Maharajah of Hyderabad - India and was used by the maharajah for decades. There is no spare wheel at the left side and instead a handle for the body guard to hold while he stood guard on the running board (from the exhibit placard)The 24 Cylinder, 12,600 PS, 850000 ccm displacement - MAN Shiffsmotor built in 1943 (from the placard)Original U boat motor -This diesel marine engine built by the MAN company at Augsburg was delivered to the Austrian navy in 1917. this motor was mounted on the Austrian submarine KKU 48, which had two of those engines. After it broke up in 1918, it was used as a power plant in a silver mine in Bolivia. In 1934 it was in Italy and then on it was placed at Sinsheim (from the placard)The small railway station of Sinsheim is located in a a beautiful and picturesque location. There is a flight club which can be seen in the distance behind the station.One small aircraft/glider plane making a landingThat is all I could share from what little I could gather in a one day visit.A single day visit is definitely not the way to do it though.If some one is interested to visit Sinsheim, better to club the Sinsheim technik museum and the Speyer Museum which is about 35 km from this place and cover both these places in at least 3 to 4 days.Most of the one line information for the exhibits are from the placards and some are from after searching on the internet. Please excuse me if some incorrect information has crept in.Thank you for your time.
shibujp Senior - BHPian

Join Date: Mar 2005 Location: Trivandrum Posts: 1,665 Thanked: 2,740 Times

View My Garage





Re: Shibujp's Maruti Baleno RS - Compressor gives up ghost AC compressor.



Started the car as usual one day, and the engine just had a hiccup before it started up. I immediately knew that something was wrong. True to form a squealing noise started and I knew it was one of the belts. Open the bonnet and the AC compressor belt was shedding some rubber indicating some friction. Took it to the Kalyani Nexa at Bangalore and the diagnosis was grim - jammed compressor. And I was to drive to Kerala, that night. Thankfully the Japanese engineers had designed the engine so that the compressor gets a belt separate from the alternator, water pump etc. They removed the belt for me and I made a slightly uncomfortable trip to Trivandrum.



Took the car to an A/C specialist at my hometown who I had used for my other cars and he took apart the compressor. I had hoped that it was just an issue with the electromagnetic clutch but that was not to be. A couple of cylinders of the compressor were well and truely jammed necessitating a replacement.



Here is where a bit of fun started. He said he will get a replacement the next day. I reminded him that my car is a Baleno RS. No problem. However I felt the message was just not getting across. Just sent across the parts number from Oriparts the next day just to be sure. Monday evening he finally understood that the car was different when the replacement part did not fit. The replacement took a week to arrive which was not surprising seeing that Nexa Bangalore told me it would have to come all the way from Gujarat.





New compressor from Subros





High pressure and low pressure lines





Old compressor



The compressor was oiled and the gas recharged. The HVAC was back to it's old health. However this episode has made me switch off the AC before I turn off the car, something I have never done in the last 20 odd years of driving.



Top Mount Bush Replacement

Four months in Bangalore had meted out a punishment to the car that the relatively smooth roads in Kerala had not. I never knew of authorities with such a passion for sleeping policemen. However a lot of them gave me a rude awakening for disturbing their eternal sleep with the result. The front suspension started to feel jarring and lose it's usual rounded edge to the shocks. Order two top mount bushes for starters and replaced them DIY. As the photo below shows there was a difference of almost 0.5 mm in height between the new and old bushes. However I had a brain fart and forgot to order the strut bearing along with them. Have ordered them but this will mean another session of taking apart the front suspension to fix those.





New (left) vs Old (Right). Note the height difference.



Rear Brake Pad Replacement

The service notes at the 100k service indicated that the right rear pads were worn out. This called for replacement. Ordered the pad via Boodmo and replaced them as well. Calling out a few interesting aspects of this DIY





The rear piston is a twist type. This means that you need to turn it clockwise to push it back to install new pads.





New pads v/s old pads.





There is a special tool for twisting the piston. However in absence of that I use a 23 size open ended spanner to get the job done. Turn clockwise to set the piston back.





Pushing the piston back may cause an overflow of brake oil. Open the cap on the brake fluid reservoir and place a rag around it so that brake oil does not spill onto the surrounding parts. Yeah and don't ask me how I know!



The 100K service

Got the 100K service done. Cost me around 9000 rupees. Main replacements were the brake oil and coolant fluid. The main impact on the cost was from the injector cleaner that costs around 2500 rupees. I use this every 20k kms.





What remains

The front brakes discs are done. Has developed an edge as the thickness of the disc has fallen below the edge of the disc and there is a bit of a drone when running. However there is always an issue I have faced from day one. To get the service folks to understand the fact that parts of RS are different. Most often the parts of the standard Baleno are hauled out just to take them back in again. Had this experience this week with the discs. Might be a boodmo order again.



The car is such a freaking all rounder that I am finding it very hard to let go of it. But the itch for a new one is also there. And I do not like keeping cars without having enough running time on them. Been poking about Spinnys for a decent BMW and need to test drive the new Verna and the turbo Alcazar.



Drive on,

Shibu. So the Baleno touched 1,00,000 kms a while back. Being a Maruti, it generally is not much cause for any heavy duty maintenance as long as regular maintenance is taken care of. However there are chances that some odd component may decide that it's had enough and just fail. For me this component was theStarted the car as usual one day, and the engine just had a hiccup before it started up. I immediately knew that something was wrong. True to form a squealing noise started and I knew it was one of the belts. Open the bonnet and the AC compressor belt was shedding some rubber indicating some friction. Took it to the Kalyani Nexa at Bangalore and the diagnosis was grim - jammed compressor. And I was to drive to Kerala, that night. Thankfully the Japanese engineers had designed the engine so that the compressor gets a belt separate from the alternator, water pump etc. They removed the belt for me and I made a slightly uncomfortable trip to Trivandrum.Took the car to an A/C specialist at my hometown who I had used for my other cars and he took apart the compressor. I had hoped that it was just an issue with the electromagnetic clutch but that was not to be. A couple of cylinders of the compressor were well and truely jammed necessitating a replacement.Here is where a bit of fun started. He said he will get a replacement the next day. I reminded him that my car is a Baleno RS. No problem. However I felt the message was just not getting across. Just sent across the parts number from Oriparts the next day just to be sure. Monday evening he finally understood that the car was different when the replacement part did not fit. The replacement took a week to arrive which was not surprising seeing that Nexa Bangalore told me it would have to come all the way from Gujarat.New compressor from SubrosHigh pressure and low pressure linesOld compressorThe compressor was oiled and the gas recharged. The HVAC was back to it's old health. However this episode has made me switch off the AC before I turn off the car, something I have never done in the last 20 odd years of driving.Four months in Bangalore had meted out a punishment to the car that the relatively smooth roads in Kerala had not. I never knew of authorities with such a passion for sleeping policemen. However a lot of them gave me a rude awakening for disturbing their eternal sleep with the result. The front suspension started to feel jarring and lose it's usual rounded edge to the shocks. Order two top mount bushes for starters and replaced them DIY. As the photo below shows there was a difference of almost 0.5 mm in height between the new and old bushes. However I had a brain fart and forgot to order the strut bearing along with them. Have ordered them but this will mean another session of taking apart the front suspension to fix those.New (left) vs Old (Right). Note the height difference.The service notes at the 100k service indicated that the right rear pads were worn out. This called for replacement. Ordered the pad via Boodmo and replaced them as well. Calling out a few interesting aspects of this DIYThe rear piston is a twist type. This means that you need to turn it clockwise to push it back to install new pads.New pads v/s old pads.There is a special tool for twisting the piston. However in absence of that I use a 23 size open ended spanner to get the job done. Turnto set the piston back.Pushing the piston back may cause an overflow of brake oil. Open the cap on the brake fluid reservoir and place a rag around it so that brake oil does not spill onto the surrounding parts. Yeah and don't ask me how I know!Got the 100K service done. Cost me aroundrupees. Main replacements were the brake oil and coolant fluid. The main impact on the cost was from the injector cleaner that costs around 2500 rupees. I use this every 20k kms.The front brakes discs are done. Has developed an edge as the thickness of the disc has fallen below the edge of the disc and there is a bit of a drone when running. However there is always an issue I have faced from day one. To get the service folks to understand the fact that parts of RS are different. Most often the parts of the standard Baleno are hauled out just to take them back in again. Had this experience this week with the discs. Might be a boodmo order again.The car is such a freaking all rounder that I am finding it very hard to let go of it. But the itch for a new one is also there. And I do not like keeping cars without having enough running time on them. Been poking about Spinnys for a decent BMW and need to test drive the new Verna and the turbo Alcazar.Drive on,Shibu. Last edited by Aditya : 18th April 2023 at 18:29 . Reason: As requested
raptor_diwan BHPian



Join Date: Feb 2023 Location: Chennai Posts: 150 Thanked: 1,152 Times

South to North: Chennai to Ladakh Diary Ladakh!!!



The mere mention of this name is enough to stir up our wanderlust and awaken our inner adventurer. The rugged terrains, picturesque landscapes, and the thrill of experiencing snow for a deep south guy like me - it's a dream come true!



Teaser photo







Although I had been planning this trip for the past 3-4 years, I kept postponing it because of my age in the way. However, I mean, I was practically a fossil at 23, you know? I finally went on the trip in 2019. My mom, of course, was freaking out about me traveling to the North without proper Hindi skills. But hey, I'm a millennial - I can figure out anything with just a smartphone and a WiFi connection, right? *



Yes, I don't know Hindi and I have to do this trip with only English and a few friends who know Hindi. I've asked 3-4 friends to be ready to help me over the phone in case I need assistance. I'll just call them, tell them what I want to say in Tamil, and they'll translate it to Hindi for me. It's going to be a hilarious trip - imagine the confused looks on people's faces when I speak in Tamil and my friends translate it into Hindi!



On my Birthday, I did a Solo trip to Munnar and was returning from Munnar to Chennai. As I was driving back, I couldn't help but think that I'm already 24 and my life is still as exciting as a loaf of bread. So, I decided to spice things up and embark on my dream journey to Leh-Ladakh before I turn 25. I mean, I can't keep living like a retired sloth in my mid-twenties, can I?



I called my friend as soon as I got home and asked him to join me. To my surprise, he agreed! And, he even brought along another friend. We planned to go in August, but then realized it would be too crowded with tourists. So, we postponed it to October, the season of the 'tourist exodus'. Let's hope we don't get lost in the 'crowd' of two people.



It was a piece of cake to convince my mom! All I had to do was mention that I wanted to go to the Himalayas, and throw in my friend's name - the same guy who always leads me astray! But hey, every family has that one friend who our mom trusts more than us. Can't fight it, might as well use it to our advantage! He's even joining me on the trip, along with one more friend. The only problem is, all three of us don't know Hindi. We'll have to rely on hand gestures and Google Translate to get by!



Now it's my turn to start planning. My other friends said, 'Just choose the location, let us know the amount to chip in, and give us the dates to block off for leave. You take care of everything else.' But now I'm worried - what if they agree at first, but then drop out at the last minute? I've had so many failed attempts at planning a Leh trip - people always say they'll join, but when it comes down to the nitty-gritty, they chicken out. I need to come up with a plan to keep them committed.



How did I solve the problem of people dropping out at the last minute? Simple - I booked the air tickets in advance! Sure, they're non-refundable, but that just means my friends will think twice before bailing on me. I chose to book the tickets for the end of September and the start of October - the off-season when everything will be closed for winter. That way, we won't have to deal with crowds, and we can have a hassle-free trip!



I booked a flight ticket on May 22nd for September 28th and collected money from my friends faster than a cashier at a Black Friday sale! I made sure to emphasize that it was non-refundable, so they better not even think about dropping out. Haha, I'm not taking any chances on this trip!



The next day, I managed to plan the entire trip in just 3 hours. All I did was open Google Maps and make a few calls to hotels in Manali, Ladakh, and Srinagar to get the idea abotu travelling time and status of the roads and prices. I even created two plans - Plan A and Plan B - just in case. Plan A involves the usual route from Delhi to Manali to Ladakh, but if the roads get blocked due to snow, we'll take Plan B - the Srinagar route from Delhi. And now, I proudly present to you the blueprint for our route!











And then, an important and surprising thing popped up in the news and went viral. In August 2019, the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, Article 370, was revoked. I was very worried that I might not be allowed into Kashmir due to the protests and riots, and there might be tension over there. However, I didn't cancel the plan and hoped that the situation would be resolved by September. Fingers crossed!



But I didn't wait for the problems to settle down. I created a plan C. In any case, the flight ticket is from Chennai to Delhi. In case there are any issues here, we can proceed with the following plan.







I didn't give a hoot about Plan C and decided to stick with Plan A like gum on a shoe. I geared up for some serious planning, and being the bike enthusiast that I am, I had to make sure my trusty two-wheeler came along for the ride. Now the real dilemma - do I train my bike to Delhi or book a rental? Decisions, decisions. .



Then my other friend was not ready with their vehicle. They wanted to take a rental as their bike was not in good condition for a long ride. To make matters worse, one of those friends had never ridden a motorcycle for more than 20 km, and now we're planning a 3000 km ride. Now, I have two options. Either I put my bike in a *train and pick it up at the Delhi railway station, while my other two friends find a rental. But since none of us know the language and we're all new to the North, we didn't want to split up.



So I decided to go ahead with renting bikes for myself and my friends. I asked for their bike preferences again, and the friend who had never ridden a bike before requested a Pulsar NS 200, while another friend and I chose an RE Classic 350. Now, I need to find a trusted rental shop in Delhi. I searched for 'rental bikes in Karol Bagh' on Google since I remembered seeing this in a few YouTube videos. I found a list of a few shops and chose a highly rated one after checking a few ratings.







This had fantastic reviews, so I called them up and spoke in English. I asked for a rental price and informed them of the date. The first thing they replied was that the roads would be closed during that time, so they didn't think we could go to Leh. October is the time when the roads are closed due to snow. However, I told them that i will take care of it because I needed the bikes. They said that last year, some people had taken bikes on the same dates but had to return them due to the road closures. They asked me if I was sure I wanted to go on those dates, and I confidently said yes. They said they would check and WhatsApp me, but they didn't share any price. Although they had a website with prices, I asked if that was the price and if I should book through the website. They asked me to wait and let me know via WhatsApp.



Here's the site :-



Later that night, I received a WhatsApp message from a different person asking about the details of our trip, such as how many of us were going to come. They also shared the documents required with me and informed me that they had both NS 200 and Classic bikes available on the days we requested.



Documents required :- There are 3 options for security deposit. We needs to select one out of these three.



1. Zero Cash Deposit  Post-Dated Cheque (Customers own cheque) + Original Passport + Copy of Driving License

2. Rs. 1,000 cash + Post-Dated Cheque + Copy of Driving License + Any govt ID proof (Adhar Card or Voter ID).

3. Rs. 2,000 cash + original passport + copy of license.



We opted for the second option since the other two required a passport. I informed them that I would be ready with it. Now, regarding the pricing, according to their site, the Classic 350 costs 750 per day, and they confirmed the same price to me. The NS 200 costs 600 per day.



Since it was the off-season, I bargained with them and asked for a reduction in the prices. They initially refused but later offered the NS 200 for 550 and the Classic 350 for 650. I requested a further reduction of 100 in each and asked for the prices to be 600 and 500, respectively. After some negotiation, they agreed. However, there were additional charges for the Ladakh carrier in the Bullet, which cost 50, so everything came out to be the same.



They asked me to make an advance payment to block the vehicle. However, I had concerns about their reliability and the possibility of being cheated. I did not want to go to Delhi and confront someone without knowing the language or having any local contacts. So, I asked them to share photos of the vehicle to check its condition and the RC book. They agreed to share the photos within 24 hours, and only then would I make the payment. In the meantime, I collected some money from my friends and also searched online for other cheaper prices and reliable shops.



I have received the images of the vehicles along with the RC book, and also a few WhatsApp videos showcasing the acceleration, engine sound and overall condition of the bikes. I am impressed with what I have seen and am ready to make the payment now.



As per Plan A, I have rented the vehicles for 14 days, and the final cost for all three bikes would be approximately 27,300/-. I paid only 4k as an advance, and they have agreed to it. I have requested them to acknowledge the payment via email, but instead, I received a WhatsApp message confirming the payment.



Preparation time :-



Now that I'm done preparing for the north, it's time to get my 'southern' game on!



List of things I had to carry and I carried :-



1. Riding jacket

2. Bandanas

3. Helmet

4. Action Cam ( SJCam 9 ) ( Addtional 4 batteries & 3 powerbanks )

5. Riding gloves & thermal/wollen gloves

6. UV & Polaizred sunglasses.

7. medicines ( Bandaid, painspray, diamo and few other tables for fever cold etc )

8. 5 Socket power Extension Junction

9. Document pouch ( Aadhar card, License, flight tickets - Copy of all and original ) ( Also soft copy was in email )

10. Mobile holder ( Bought it in karol bagh )

11. Tripod

12. Laptop

13. Pocket knife

14. Raincoat

15. Sunscreen, lipbalm



( And other times such as cloths and garments )



I've watched countless videos of people taking permits online, and even read about it in BHP travelogues. But when I tried it myself, I ended up filling the form wrong and didn't bother trying again. So I thought, why not just wing it and go there without any permits or room bookings? Who knows what kind of crazy adventure we might have, like sleeping under the stars or getting chased by wild animals! Plus, I never book rooms in advance because bargaining is half the fun - I mean, who doesn't love getting a good deal while haggling with the hotel manager like a pro?



One week before the trip, the situation in Kashmir was still out of control. The entire Srinagar side was on fire with lots of protests. The mobile internet was dead, you guys might remember this incident where all of the internet was shutdown and mobile phones signal too, it's like a lockdown! Remember my plan A? I was not sure how I am going to complete that! So, before one week, I called a few hotels in Ladakh and Manali to check on the status of hotel bookings and asked them if they can pick us up from the airport. Is it open? Is there any problem? Out of five calls, only two people answered, and they said it might not be possible for us to come during those days as we are not allowed to enter Srinagar or Sonmarg. I was worried, but I was hoping that the problem would solve before we go there.



The much-awaited day had finally arrived!



Day 1 :- Chennai to Delhi  Punjab ( Patiala )



The plan is to reach Delhi from Chennai by flight, with a landing time of 9:55 AM. From there, head directly to Karol Bagh to pick up the bike and then head towards Shimla.



Unfortunately, things didn't go as expected. I had planned to leave Delhi for Shimla by 11 AM at the latest, but the actual events turned out completely differently.



I asked my dad to drop me at the airport while I picked up my other two friends from their homes. As my dad was driving the car, I felt a bit nervous and sad at the thought of being away from my parents for more than a week. I had never stayed away from home for that long before. Nevertheless, I bid farewell to my family members, and it was time to leave.



We reached Chennai airport at 5:20 AM and boarded the flight as scheduled.































We flew all the way across to the northern part of India and landed there 30 minutes ahead of schedule.



We claimed our luggage and set out to meet our pre-arranged travel companion, which was actually our bike. By 9:30 AM,



We asked a few auto and taxi wala for the price to Karol Bagh and found out that it would cost us more than our kidney to get there! We realized that we might have to sell our bike just to afford the ride. So, we said goodbye to our crazy transportation ideas and booked an Uber instead and reached our point. Thank god for technology! Maybe they thought we were foreigners since we spoke in English or whatever. This is all expected.



















Once we reached Karol Bagh, the shop worker had just opened the store. I had planned to pick up the bike and head directly to Shimla, but that was not the case. I had to wait for several formalities to be completed, and unfortunately, the bike was not available at the shop. We had to wait for the manager, and of course, there was a lot of paperwork to be done.



After thoroughly inspecting the bike and completing all the necessary paperwork, we created a checklist and conducted a short test drive. The bike passed with flying colors and was in perfect condition.







































It took almost half a day to complete all the formalities. By the time we finished, it was already 12:30 PM, and we were all extremely hungry as we hadn't had any breakfast yet. We searched for nearby restaurants in Karol Bagh and found a place called Janta. We ordered biryani, but unfortunately, it turned out to be the worst biryani we had ever tasted. It didn't live up to our expectations and didn't even taste like tomato rice. We were quite disappointed, but I had no choice but to finish my meal as my stomach was growling due to hunger. After lunch, we headed towards Karol Bagh Road to buy some spare parts for our trip.



















The mere mention of this name is enough to stir up our wanderlust and awaken our inner adventurer. The rugged terrains, picturesque landscapes, and the thrill of experiencing snow for a deep south guy like me - it's a dream come true!Although I had been planning this trip for the past 3-4 years, I kept postponing it because of my age in the way. However, I mean, I was practically a fossil at 23, you know? I finally went on the trip in 2019. My mom, of course, was freaking out about me traveling to the North without proper Hindi skills. But hey, I'm a millennial - I can figure out anything with just a smartphone and a WiFi connection, right? *Yes, I don't know Hindi and I have to do this trip with only English and a few friends who know Hindi. I've asked 3-4 friends to be ready to help me over the phone in case I need assistance. I'll just call them, tell them what I want to say in Tamil, and they'll translate it to Hindi for me. It's going to be a hilarious trip - imagine the confused looks on people's faces when I speak in Tamil and my friends translate it into Hindi!On my Birthday, I did a Solo trip to Munnar and was returning from Munnar to Chennai. As I was driving back, I couldn't help but think that I'm already 24 and my life is still as exciting as a loaf of bread. So, I decided to spice things up and embark on my dream journey to Leh-Ladakh before I turn 25. I mean, I can't keep living like a retired sloth in my mid-twenties, can I?I called my friend as soon as I got home and asked him to join me. To my surprise, he agreed! And, he even brought along another friend. We planned to go in August, but then realized it would be too crowded with tourists. So, we postponed it to October, the season of the 'tourist exodus'. Let's hope we don't get lost in the 'crowd' of two people.It was a piece of cake to convince my mom! All I had to do was mention that I wanted to go to the Himalayas, and throw in my friend's name - the same guy who always leads me astray! But hey, every family has that one friend who our mom trusts more than us. Can't fight it, might as well use it to our advantage! He's even joining me on the trip, along with one more friend. The only problem is, all three of us don't know Hindi. We'll have to rely on hand gestures and Google Translate to get by!Now it's my turn to start planning. My other friends said, 'Just choose the location, let us know the amount to chip in, and give us the dates to block off for leave. You take care of everything else.' But now I'm worried - what if they agree at first, but then drop out at the last minute? I've had so many failed attempts at planning a Leh trip - people always say they'll join, but when it comes down to the nitty-gritty, they chicken out. I need to come up with a plan to keep them committed.How did I solve the problem of people dropping out at the last minute? Simple - I booked the air tickets in advance! Sure, they're non-refundable, but that just means my friends will think twice before bailing on me. I chose to book the tickets for the end of September and the start of October - the off-season when everything will be closed for winter. That way, we won't have to deal with crowds, and we can have a hassle-free trip!I booked a flight ticket on May 22nd for September 28th and collected money from my friends faster than a cashier at a Black Friday sale! I made sure to emphasize that it was non-refundable, so they better not even think about dropping out. Haha, I'm not taking any chances on this trip!The next day, I managed to plan the entire trip in just 3 hours. All I did was open Google Maps and make a few calls to hotels in Manali, Ladakh, and Srinagar to get the idea abotu travelling time and status of the roads and prices. I even created two plans - Plan A and Plan B - just in case. Plan A involves the usual route from Delhi to Manali to Ladakh, but if the roads get blocked due to snow, we'll take Plan B - the Srinagar route from Delhi. And now, I proudly present to you the blueprint for our route!And then, an important and surprising thing popped up in the news and went viral. In August 2019, the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, Article 370, was revoked. I was very worried that I might not be allowed into Kashmir due to the protests and riots, and there might be tension over there. However, I didn't cancel the plan and hoped that the situation would be resolved by September. Fingers crossed!But I didn't wait for the problems to settle down. I created a plan C. In any case, the flight ticket is from Chennai to Delhi. In case there are any issues here, we can proceed with the following plan.I didn't give a hoot about Plan C and decided to stick with Plan A like gum on a shoe. I geared up for some serious planning, and being the bike enthusiast that I am, I had to make sure my trusty two-wheeler came along for the ride. Now the real dilemma - do I train my bike to Delhi or book a rental? Decisions, decisions. .Then my other friend was not ready with their vehicle. They wanted to take a rental as their bike was not in good condition for a long ride. To make matters worse, one of those friends had never ridden a motorcycle for more than 20 km, and now we're planning a 3000 km ride. Now, I have two options. Either I put my bike in a *train and pick it up at the Delhi railway station, while my other two friends find a rental. But since none of us know the language and we're all new to the North, we didn't want to split up.So I decided to go ahead with renting bikes for myself and my friends. I asked for their bike preferences again, and the friend who had never ridden a bike before requested a Pulsar NS 200, while another friend and I chose an RE Classic 350. Now, I need to find a trusted rental shop in Delhi. I searched for 'rental bikes in Karol Bagh' on Google since I remembered seeing this in a few YouTube videos. I found a list of a few shops and chose a highly rated one after checking a few ratings.This had fantastic reviews, so I called them up and spoke in English. I asked for a rental price and informed them of the date. The first thing they replied was that the roads would be closed during that time, so they didn't think we could go to Leh. October is the time when the roads are closed due to snow. However, I told them that i will take care of it because I needed the bikes. They said that last year, some people had taken bikes on the same dates but had to return them due to the road closures. They asked me if I was sure I wanted to go on those dates, and I confidently said yes. They said they would check and WhatsApp me, but they didn't share any price. Although they had a website with prices, I asked if that was the price and if I should book through the website. They asked me to wait and let me know via WhatsApp.:- https://rahulmotoz.com/bike-list.php Later that night, I received a WhatsApp message from a different person asking about the details of our trip, such as how many of us were going to come. They also shared the documents required with me and informed me that they had both NS 200 and Classic bikes available on the days we requested.:- There are 3 options for security deposit. We needs to select one out of these three.1. Zero Cash Deposit  Post-Dated Cheque (Customers own cheque) + Original Passport + Copy of Driving License2. Rs. 1,000 cash + Post-Dated Cheque + Copy of Driving License + Any govt ID proof (Adhar Card or Voter ID).3. Rs. 2,000 cash + original passport + copy of license.We opted for the second option since the other two required a passport. I informed them that I would be ready with it. Now, regarding the pricing, according to their site, the Classic 350 costs 750 per day, and they confirmed the same price to me. The NS 200 costs 600 per day.Since it was the off-season, I bargained with them and asked for a reduction in the prices. They initially refused but later offered the NS 200 for 550 and the Classic 350 for 650. I requested a further reduction of 100 in each and asked for the prices to be 600 and 500, respectively. After some negotiation, they agreed. However, there were additional charges for the Ladakh carrier in the Bullet, which cost 50, so everything came out to be the same.They asked me to make an advance payment to block the vehicle. However, I had concerns about their reliability and the possibility of being cheated. I did not want to go to Delhi and confront someone without knowing the language or having any local contacts. So, I asked them to share photos of the vehicle to check its condition and the RC book. They agreed to share the photos within 24 hours, and only then would I make the payment. In the meantime, I collected some money from my friends and also searched online for other cheaper prices and reliable shops.I have received the images of the vehicles along with the RC book, and also a few WhatsApp videos showcasing the acceleration, engine sound and overall condition of the bikes. I am impressed with what I have seen and am ready to make the payment now.As per Plan A, I have rented the vehicles for 14 days, and the final cost for all three bikes would be approximately 27,300/-. I paid only 4k as an advance, and they have agreed to it. I have requested them to acknowledge the payment via email, but instead, I received a WhatsApp message confirming the payment.Now that I'm done preparing for the north, it's time to get my 'southern' game on!:-1. Riding jacket2. Bandanas3. Helmet4. Action Cam ( SJCam 9 ) ( Addtional 4 batteries & 3 powerbanks )5. Riding gloves & thermal/wollen gloves6. UV & Polaizred sunglasses.7. medicines ( Bandaid, painspray, diamo and few other tables for fever cold etc )8. 5 Socket power Extension Junction9. Document pouch ( Aadhar card, License, flight tickets - Copy of all and original ) ( Also soft copy was in email )10. Mobile holder ( Bought it in karol bagh )11. Tripod12. Laptop13. Pocket knife14. Raincoat15. Sunscreen, lipbalm( And other times such as cloths and garments )I've watched countless videos of people taking permits online, and even read about it in BHP travelogues. But when I tried it myself, I ended up filling the form wrong and didn't bother trying again. So I thought, why not just wing it and go there without any permits or room bookings? Who knows what kind of crazy adventure we might have, like sleeping under the stars or getting chased by wild animals! Plus, I never book rooms in advance because bargaining is half the fun - I mean, who doesn't love getting a good deal while haggling with the hotel manager like a pro?One week before the trip, the situation in Kashmir was still out of control. The entire Srinagar side was on fire with lots of protests. The mobile internet was dead, you guys might remember this incident where all of the internet was shutdown and mobile phones signal too, it's like a lockdown! Remember my plan A? I was not sure how I am going to complete that! So, before one week, I called a few hotels in Ladakh and Manali to check on the status of hotel bookings and asked them if they can pick us up from the airport. Is it open? Is there any problem? Out of five calls, only two people answered, and they said it might not be possible for us to come during those days as we are not allowed to enter Srinagar or Sonmarg. I was worried, but I was hoping that the problem would solve before we go there.The much-awaited day had finally arrived!The plan is to reach Delhi from Chennai by flight, with a landing time of 9:55 AM. From there, head directly to Karol Bagh to pick up the bike and then head towards Shimla.Unfortunately, things didn't go as expected. I had planned to leave Delhi for Shimla by 11 AM at the latest, but the actual events turned out completely differently.I asked my dad to drop me at the airport while I picked up my other two friends from their homes. As my dad was driving the car, I felt a bit nervous and sad at the thought of being away from my parents for more than a week. I had never stayed away from home for that long before. Nevertheless, I bid farewell to my family members, and it was time to leave.We reached Chennai airport at 5:20 AM and boarded the flight as scheduled.We flew all the way across to the northern part of India and landed there 30 minutes ahead of schedule.We claimed our luggage and set out to meet our pre-arranged travel companion, which was actually our bike. By 9:30 AM,We asked a few auto and taxi wala for the price to Karol Bagh and found out that it would cost us more than our kidney to get there! We realized that we might have to sell our bike just to afford the ride. So, we said goodbye to our crazy transportation ideas and booked an Uber instead and reached our point. Thank god for technology! Maybe they thought we were foreigners since we spoke in English or whatever. This is all expected.Once we reached Karol Bagh, the shop worker had just opened the store. I had planned to pick up the bike and head directly to Shimla, but that was not the case. I had to wait for several formalities to be completed, and unfortunately, the bike was not available at the shop. We had to wait for the manager, and of course, there was a lot of paperwork to be done.After thoroughly inspecting the bike and completing all the necessary paperwork, we created a checklist and conducted a short test drive. The bike passed with flying colors and was in perfect condition.It took almost half a day to complete all the formalities. By the time we finished, it was already 12:30 PM, and we were all extremely hungry as we hadn't had any breakfast yet. We searched for nearby restaurants in Karol Bagh and found a place called Janta. We ordered biryani, but unfortunately, it turned out to be the worst biryani we had ever tasted. It didn't live up to our expectations and didn't even taste like tomato rice. We were quite disappointed, but I had no choice but to finish my meal as my stomach was growling due to hunger. After lunch, we headed towards Karol Bagh Road to buy some spare parts for our trip. Last edited by raptor_diwan : 17th April 2023 at 14:08 .
DAMASCUS, April 18 (Xinhua) -- Saudi Arabian Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud arrived in the Syrian capital of Damascus Tuesday afternoon, the first visit of a Saudi official to Syria in 12 years, according to the state news agency SANA.

The visit comes days after Syrian Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad visited the kingdom as part of the efforts to restore normal relations between the two countries.

During Mekdad's visit to Saudi Arabia, an agreement was made to restore consulate services and resume air flights between the two countries.

This comes amid notable Arab efforts to fix stranded ties with Damascus after the Syrian war broke out in 2011.

Last week, diplomats from nine Arab countries met in the Saudi city of Jeddah to discuss Syria's return to the Arab fold, saying a political solution is the only way to end the Syrian crisis. 
The big picture: Sanctions imposed by the US and its allies on Chinese companies have already produced changes in the global supply chain, and more are likely to come. However, the CHIPS Act adds another layer of uncertainty for global players like TSMC, Samsung, and even American companies like Intel and Micron who also operate some facilities in China but wish to secure government subsidies for their expansion plans. The obvious loser here is the Chinese semiconductor industry, which will need to find new ways to survive in a rough geopolitical climate.

Back in 2021, we learned that companies like SMIC and China's Yangtze Memory Technologies Co (YMTC) had made incredible progress in catching up with global players in the semiconductor industry, at least when it comes to the manufacturing of NAND, RAM, and low-end CPUs and GPUs.

In the case of YMTC, it even developed an advanced hybrid bonding technology for stacking memory dies that enabled local SSD manufacturers to come up with products that were quite competitive in terms of storage density and performance with mainstream offerings from the likes of Samsung, Micron, and SK Hynix. It was enough to pique Apple's interest for a short while as YMTC seemed like a potential alternative supplier of NAND memory for lower-end iPhones.

What surprised industry watchers was the fast pace of Chinese semiconductor developments in all areas except high-end GPUs for gaming and AI accelerators for the data center. Advanced foundries were being built using billions in government-backed funding, and companies like SMIC, Wingtech, Zhaoxin, Starblaze Technology, and Tongfu Microelectronics were poaching talent from Taiwan.

That said, the US-China trade war that started under the Trump Administration several years ago has continued under President Biden and resulted in several sanctions and import restrictions for tech produced in China. This has slowed down the latter country's ambitions somewhat and made procuring cutting-edge manufacturing equipment an arduous task.

Although the Biden Administration has allowed some US citizens to continue working for Chinese semiconductor companies that are on the Entity List, those organizations have opted to drive away those employees as part of a bizarre "de-Americanization" effort. The effects of that decision are still unclear, but there's a bigger problem looming for all companies that operate fabs or research and development centers in China  the CHIPS Act.

Image: President Biden holding a wafer | AP News

China has already lost easy access to purchase or license critical US-made technologies, and companies that operate in the region will have to decide whether or not it's in their best interest to continue doing so in the future. Many semiconductor companies want to tap into the large funding pool of the CHIPS Act, but one key requirement is that they aren't allowed to partner up with Chinese companies or expand their manufacturing capacity in the region for a decade.

Analysts at TrendForce believe this will have a significant impact on Chinese foundries, silicon wafer manufacturers, and memory makers for the next 10 years. Couple that with Japanese and Dutch manufacturers agreeing to aid in export controls against China even when it comes to older, DUV equipment for more mature process nodes, and you can easily see how the country's plan to achieve technological self-sufficiency by 2025 seems destined for failure.

Also read: China's supply chain: Shenzhen wasn't built in a day

A particularly sore spot in the forecast is China's share of global DRAM output, which is projected to drop from 14 percent in 2023 to just 12 percent in 2025. NAND output might see an even bigger drop from 31 percent to 18 percent over the next two years. American companies like Intel and Micron as well as Korean companies such as Samsung and SK Hynix will want to cover the resulting gap, but they won't be able to use their Chinese facilities to do so.

If they receive CHIPS Act funding, they won't be able to upgrade assembly lines or build additional capacity, meaning their Chinese operations will get scaled down over time as chips made in the region become less competitive with alternatives on the global market.

TSMC faces a similar conundrum with its Fab 16 in Nanjing, China. The facility mostly produces chips on a 28 nm process node and plans to upgrade assembly lines to a 16 nm process node are likely to get delayed or scrapped entirely. Nevertheless, smaller Taiwanese foundries like VIS and PSMC that focus on chips for automotive applications are already benefiting from more orders coming their way.

TrendForce says American companies have already reduced their manufacturing output in China and are looking for ways to shift production elsewhere. It's also possible that some will opt for a strategy to split their production efforts, with Chinese factories covering local demand and facilities outside the country serving other regions.

Some like TSMC founder Morris Chang believe all this will lead to chip industry fragmentation, increased costs, and a slowdown of innovation, though he agrees with most US sanctions against China. Advanced chip factories take several years to get up and running, and the US won't see the effects of its foreign policy until then. Still, it has already managed to drive private investments totaling $200 billion into US-based chip manufacturing.

Meanwhile, China's chip industry is preparing a concerted reaction to what it sees as a significant blow to its recovery efforts. Last month, Huawei chairman Eric Xu said the Chinese semiconductor industry will soon be "reborn" as a result of the many sanctions that have been levied against it. Xu claims a consortium of Chinese companies (including Huawei) has already developed the necessary equipment for a 14 nm process node, which is still several generations behind the global industry but a significant step for the local one.

Separately, the local government of China's southern Guangdong province is investing no less than 30 billion yuan (around $4.36 billion) to accelerate startups specializing in materials science and equipment for the manufacturing of chips for automotive applications.

For now, it looks like China's semiconductor industry could remain frozen in time despite all the billions being thrown at it by its government in hopes of making it less reliant on American-made technology. It's only capable of producing 14 nm logic chips, 18 nm DRAM, and 128-layer 3D NAND  something that won't change as long as US concerns about China using advanced semiconductors for military purposes persist.
What just happened? Google decided to deprecate support for the experimental JPEG-XL image format, and Free Software Foundation is now accusing the corporation of being a predatory monopolist which has no interest in what's really best for the web.

JPEG-XL is a recent image format optimized for responsive web environments, a potential new standard designed to transition the web from the legacy (yet still extremely popular) JPEG format while being based on the open source PIK technology. JPEG-XL/PIK can reduce storage cost while offering higher quality and a larger feature set, but the decision made by Google could very well become a death sentence for the format.

In a comment on the Chromium project posted in 2022, a Google engineer said the developers decided to remove the JPEG-XL experimental code from the open source browser framework. The "ecosystem" didn't have enough interest for the format, the developer said, while the format itself "does not bring sufficient incremental benefits" over existing formats. Therefore, removing the JPEG-XL code and flag would reduce the overall maintenance burden of the Chromium project.

As highlighted by Greg Farough, campaigns manager at the Free Software Foundation (FSF), Chromium is the dominant force behind the modern web powering around 80 percent of worldwide browser usage with Chrome and Chromium-based, third party browsers like Edge, Opera and Vivaldi. "In supposedly gauging what the ecosystem wants," Farough said, Google is just asking itself "what Google wants."

Once again, FSF said, Google is doing what is best "for its own predatory interests," not what's best for the web. After Mountain View decided to deprecate the JPEG-XL code in Chromium, developers made the issue the most "starred" one in the history of the project. Despite what Google said, the "ecosystem" is seemingly very interested in JPEG-XL support and was asking the advertising corporation not to do what it did anyway.

Google is trying to control every aspect of the web to always benefit its own business interests, FSF suggested. For this very reason, in place of JPEG-XL the corporation decided to support the AVIF format. AVIF, or AV1 Image File Format, is an open source, royalty-free specification which uses the same compression algorithm of the AV1 video format to store images or image sequences.

AVIF is yet another facet of the "web that Google itself controls," FSF said, because the Alliance for Open Media (AOM) and its members (Google, Amazon, Apple, Meta) are under investigation by the European Union for the AV1 hidden licensing terms. What Google really wants is control over the web, FSF said, while users and independent developers really want "freedom."

As for the JPEG-XL image format, Google's decision to remove the technology from Chromium will likely have significant effects on the future development of the technology. Mozilla Firefox, the only alternative browser technology currently competing with Chromium's monopoly, has taken a neutral stance on JPEG-XL. The format doesn't seem to offer substantial improvements over the competition, the developers said, but Firefox could support it "if usage becomes more widespread."
In brief: A decommissioned satellite that NASA used to study the sun will deorbit within the next few days. It could provide a spectacular light show if you are in the right region of the world when it comes down. Unfortunately, NASA does not know precisely when it will re-enter Earth's atmosphere, meaning they don't know where it will come down.

The Reuven Ramaty High Energy Solar Spectroscopic Imager, usually called Rhessi, was launched into orbit on February 5, 2002, to allow NASA to monitor solar flares. During its 16-year mission, Rhessi recorded over 75,000 solar flares. Rhessi spotted the first "X-class flare" (the strongest type) on April 21, 2002. The space agency notes that most scientists who studied Rhessi's observations have a favorite flare (or most hated in some cases) that they remember like a birthday.

"Ask any scientist who worked on RHESSI what their favorite flare is, and they'll easily rattle off a date as if it's a birthday or holiday they'll always remember," NASA wrote regarding the satellite's decommissioning. "One guy even has a most-hated flare. He had many arguments with colleagues over it, trying to explain it, which was not always pleasurable."

After losing communications with Rhessi, NASA retired the craft on August 16, 2018. It sent decommissioning commands so it would stop transmitting data. Rhessi fully lost contact with ground control sometime later but remained in orbit, with mission personnel and observatories tracking it manually.

While NASA knows that the 660-pound craft is coming down very soon, without precise location, speed, altitude, and other telemetry data that Rhessi no longer provides, the space agency can only guess at the time of re-entry. Officially, it is estimated to fall on Wednesday, April 19, at about 9:30 pm EDT, plus or minus 16 hours. With a 32-hour window, the satellite could fall anywhere in the world between 5:30 am EDT Wednesday and 1:30 pm EDT Thursday (about 22 hours from publication).

Despite not knowing exactly where it will land, NASA estimates there is only a 1-in-2,467 chance of Rhessi harming anyone. While this seems like decent odds of getting hit by debris, the odds of you being the one it strikes are still astronomically small. Most of the craft will burn up in the atmosphere and the rest will more than likely land in an ocean. The Defense department is monitoring and will update positional estimates as it descends. Anyone can track it from the Space-Track website.

If you are lucky enough, you might see a spectacular burn when it comes down. Your chances of witnessing re-entry are much better than actually getting hit. It should look like a bright shooting star that might break into several burning pieces before fading.
Tesla disclosed another fatal crash that involves automated driver-assist systems, bringing its total to 17 crashes since June 2021. The government required the EV maker to submit data on these kinds of accidents to investigate the situation.

(Photo : Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)

TILBURG, NETHERLANDS - MARCH 29: A general view of the Tesla Assembly plant building which also does vehicle delivery and has a service centre, on March 29, 2021 in Tilburg, Netherlands in mid-March, a Dutch online news site reported that the Tilburg plant.

Tesla's 17th Fatal Crash

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration was given more information by Tesla regarding the crash in San Francisco Bay Area last February, involving a Tesla Model S and automated driver-assist systems. Bloomberg reported that Tesla disclosed to the agency that this was their 17th fatal crash since June 2021.

This also becomes the 66th reported accident based on data collected by NHTSA regarding crashes that involve Level 2 Automated Driving Systems. The data collection is part of an ongoing investigation since August 2021 to look at how Autopilot handles crash incidents following collisions with the first responder and other vehicles.

Advocates in Washington have been requesting regulators and lawmakers to tighten the rules for self-driving vehicles and technologies as it garners popularity day by day, including Tesla's Autopilot Driver-Assist Feature.

February Incident

The involved Tesla driver in this incident was pronounced dead after crashing into a fire truck on an interstate highway. The Contro Costa County Fire Protection District Department noted that the passenger of the vehicle was taken to the hospital in critical condition and four fighters were released immediately with minor injuries.

The incident occurred on Saturday, February 18, and was followed by Tesla's announcement of recalling more than 362,768 vehicles in the United States to update the Full Self-Driving feature after concerns were raised by the regulators about the system. Just like any other major automaker, Tesla had their issues with EVs. Gizmodo reported 19 Tesla recalls last year alone.

As per the company, certain EVs equipped with the FSD system were vulnerable to glitches, hence the recall. Prior to this, around 14 Tesla vehicles have already hit emergency vehicles while operating in autopilot mode.

Also Read: US Senators Markey, Blumenthal Urge Tesla CEO Elon Musk to Explain Company Privacy Policies

Opening Special Probe

NHTSA opened an investigation regarding this crash where an advanced driver assistance system was suspected of having been used. Reuters reported that the agency is reviewing whether the company's EVs ensure drivers are paying attention when using the system.

In previous reports, NHTSA stated that evidence suggested that drivers in most crashes had complied with Tesla's alert strategy seeking to compel driver attention to raise questions about its effectiveness.

NHTSA opens more than 100 special crash investigations every year dedicated to emerging technologies and other safety issues. These kinds of investigations previously helped to tighten safety rules on airbags.

Related Article: Severe Tesla Crash in Florida Not EV's Fault? Authorities Explain What Happened

 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
The first wind turbine, out of 69, has been installed at the super-hybrid Hollandse Kust Noord Offshore Wind Farm. This is expected to deliver its first power by summer and to be fully operational by the end of 2023.

(Photo : DAMIEN MEYER/AFP via Getty Images)

Wind turbines are pictured on the first French offshore wind farm off the coasts of La Turballe, western France on September 30, 2022. - The wind farm, consisting of 80 wind turbines, will supply 480MW, with an investment of 2 billion euros

Hollandse Kust's First Wind Turbine

Hollandse Kust Noord Offshore Wind Farm installed its first wind turbine at the North Sea, developed by CrossWind in a joint venture of Shell and Eneco. Electrek reported that the 759-megawatt offshore wind farm will install a total of 69 Siemens Gamesa 11.0-200 DD wind turbines to generate at least 3.3 TWh annually.

The wind turbines are about 656 feet, with each turbine containing a blade 97 meters long, longer than the wingspan of an Airbus A380 by about 17 meters. For its position, the wind turbines will be sites around 1 kilometer apart of 0.6 miles.

Installation

Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy and Van Oord used the offshore installation vessel called Scylla to transport and install its first turbine, which sailed out from Eemshaven to the offshore HKN site. The sail started last week and the installation of the foundation was on April 15.

CrossWind Wind Turbine Generator Package Manager Stefan Hartman stated that the installation process will start on the monopile, then the nacelle on top of the tower, then the blades.

"Blade installation will commence if there is a sufficiently long time window of windspeeds below 12m per second m/s. For comparison, 12m/s is a windspeed at which it becomes hard to hold an umbrella,' he added.

Aside from the turbines, Power Technology reported that the wind farm will also feature floating solar, battery storage, and green hydrogen production as part of the green effort of this venture between Shell and Eneco.

Also Read: US Plans to Build Offshore Wind Farm to Bolster Renewable Energy Use

Offshore reported that once all turbines are installed, Hollandse Kust Noord Offshore Wind Farm will contribute enough green electricity to meet the 2.8% electricity demand of the Netherlands. While the team onboard the Scylla can install one wind turbine in 24 hours, construction will be suspended depending on weather conditions.

Dutch Government Choosing CrossWind

In 2020, the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy have chosen CrossWind to build the super-hybrid offshore wind farm Hollandse Kust Noord. This is a joint venture between Shell and Dutch utility Eneco. The wind farm is set to generate its first power by June, and by the end of 2023, it is expected to become fully operational.

According to Reuter's report last March 2022 that the Netherlands will ramp up its efforts on building offshore wind farms in the coming years in order for the country to double the planned capacity by 2030. This is a bid of the Dutch government to meet its climate goals and reduce its reliance on Russian gas.

Related Article: Seagreen Installs Deepest Offshore Wind Turbine Foundation in the World

 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
US Internal Revenue Service released a list of electric vehicles that will still qualify for the full federal tax credit, costing $7,500 after implementing strict guidelines. This will officially go into effect on April 18th.

(Photo : Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

CORTE MADERA, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 15: In an aerial view, Tesla cars recharge at a Tesla charger station on February 15, 2023 in Corte Madera, California. Electric car company Tesla is partnering with the U.S. federal government to expand electric vehicle charging infrastructure in the United States. Tesla announced plans to open an estimated 7,500 of its Tesla Superchargers in the country to all brands of electric vehicles by the end of 2024.

Listing Qualified Six EVs

Only six electric vehicles still qualify for the full $7,500 federal tax credits under the new terms of the Internal Revenue Service. This will take effect on April 18th and eligible vehicles include fully electric and plug-in hybrid models.

Consumers can choose from Cadillac Lyriq, Chevrolet Bolt, Chevrolet Bolt EUV, Tesla Model 3, Tesla Model Y, and Ford F-150 Lightning if they want to get that full tax credit. The Washington Post reported that this is a centerpiece of the Biden administration's green-energy effort, aiming to boost high-tech employment, lower carbon emissions, and reduce reliance on Chinese products.

This updated list comes China has been cut out as an approved trading partner, pertaining to EV batteries. By doing this, the vehicle list would obviously shrink as most electric vehicles used batteries in China or by Chinese manufacturers.

Because of the updated list, nine models that are mostly from foreign automakers are no longer eligible for the tax credit despite some of them being assembled in the United States. The list includes Nissan Leaf, Volkswagen ID.4, Rivian R1S, and R1T.

Also Read: Vermont Lawmakers Considers Mileage-Based Tax Credits on Electric Vehicles

As per Consumer Reports, automakers must show that 40% of the value of critical minerals in the battery must originated in the United States to qualify for the full credit. Adding to this is that the battery components must be 50% originated in North America.

Half Credit

Meanwhile, some vehicles may still qualify for a half credit of $3,750 as long as they meet certain requirements. Three PHEVS also qualify for the half credit while three more qualify for the full, including vehicles manufactured by Ford, Lincoln, Chrysler, and Jeep.

The agency assures that these credits are not excluding hybrid technology as they are just making sure components are sourced properly. Engadget reported that batteries that are 50% made or assembled in the US may qualify for the first half credit and if the company sources at least 40% of critical minerals in the country, the second half credit kicks in.

Companies' Efforts

Nissan Spokesperson Jeff Wandel stated that the company was not able to certify to meet the new battery requirements but is currently working with supplies and hopes to qualify for at least partial credit in the future.

As per Volkswagen Spokesperson Mark Gillies, the automaker still awaits the documentation from a supplier as they see this opportunity as "fairly optimistic" that the company will still qualify for a tax credit.

Despite just releasing an updated list, the government plans to keep updating the list to keep up with different companies as they adapt and change their battery supply chains.

Related Article: EV Tax Credit to Return for Tesla, GM, Toyota? New Senate Bill On the Works, With a Catch

 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
QBot malware has been a persistent threat to Windows devices for some time now, and the new phishing campaign using Windows Script Files (WSF) is making it easier than ever to infect these devices. The campaign utilizes reply-chain emails attachment with PDF files and is being distributed worldwide.

QBot DLL File Injected into Windows Error Manager, Allowing the Malware to Run Stealthily in the Background

According to the story by Bleeping Computer, when opened, the PDF file will download a ZIP file that contains a Windows Script File (WSF). The WSF file is heavily obfuscated, and its ultimate goal is to execute a malicious PowerShell script.

Upon execution of the PowerShell script, a stealthy QBot DLL file is downloaded and injected into the Windows Error Manager program, allowing the malware to run in the background.

Infection Speed: QBot Gains an Initial Foothold in Minutes

The speed at which QBot can infect Windows devices and move to adjacent workstations is alarming - it only takes around an hour for the malicious activity to spread and for valuable data to be stolen.

QBot malware is a formidable threat to businesses, as it provides threat actors with a way to gain an initial foothold on corporate networks. In recent reports, strains of QBot have been distributed through phishing emails using PDFs and Windows Script Files (WSF) to infect Windows devices.

The Potential Consequences of Clicking on a Reply-Chain Email

Reply-chain emails are used to make phishing emails less suspicious. The attached PDF appears innocuous, with a message of "This document contains protected files, to display them, click on the 'open' button."

Unfortunately, this will instead download a ZIP file containing an obfuscated WSF file and ultimately executes a PowerShell script. From there, the QBot malware will download and inject itself into the Windows Error Manager to run quietly in the background.

The Rapid Lateral Spread of QBot Infection

This initial infection provides threat actors access to other connected devices on a network, allowing the lateral spread of additional malicious payloads and the implantation of ransomware.

The ransomware threat is becoming increasingly dangerous for businesses as the exposure window for lateral spread is incredibly short. The DFIR Report has shown that it only requires 30 minutes for QBot to collect sensitive data and an hour from spreading it to other adjacent devices.

Therefore, it is crucial that businesses recognize the signs of a QBot infection and respond immediately to get the infected device offline to stop the lateral spread of malicious activity.

Read Also: Mac is Now Targeted by the LockBit Gang, New Ransomware Surfaces-Beware

Security Evaluation Following QBot Malware Detection

This incident response requires the shutdown of the infected computer and a full security evaluation of the entire network for any unusual behavior or attacks. Cryptolaemus1 shared the malware findings on Twitter.

This could include scanning for incoming and outgoing malicious traffic, scanning for installed malicious software, and examining accounts and services for signs of suspicious activity. These steps are essential to prevent the damaging effects of QBot malware, ransomware, and other malicious activity.

Related Article: Hong Kong Police Arrest 4 for Registering 7,300 SIM Cards, Fake IDs for Social Media Scams

 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Elon Musk, the Chief Twit and owner of SpaceX and Tesla, is looking to expand his businesses in the field of AI and create an alternative to the popular AI chatbot ChatGPT, according to a report by AP.

ChatGPT's prospective rival would be named "TruthGPT."



Musk Claims AI Bias

In an interview with Fox News host Tucker Carlson, Musk claims that ChatGPT shows a liberal bias and that his alternative would be a "maximum truth-seeking AI that tries to understand the nature of the universe."

TruthGPT ultimately aims to address this alleged liberal bias. This rationale is similar to when the billionaire was still planning to buy Twitter claiming that liberal bias on the app comprised freedom of speech.

However, Musk was particularly concerned about the potential threats of AI to humanity. He even considered this growing tech more dangerous than cars or rockets, which are basically in line with his current businesses.

It is worth noting that Musk co-chaired the board of OpenAI, the startup that created ChatGPT, and was an early investor. OpenAI was established in 2015 as a nonprofit AI research center.

But the billionaire was briefly on the board before leaving in early 2018. OpenAI cited Tesla's efforts to develop automated driving systems as the cause of his resignation.

Musk went into further detail about his leaving in 2019, claiming that it was also due to his need to concentrate on engineering issues at Tesla and some disagreements with OpenAI's leaders.

Read Also: Elon Musk AI: New Claims CEO Purchased 10,000 GPUs Over at Twitter to Compete with OpenAI's GPT-4

Tesla's AI

Tesla is also incorporating AI into its vehicles. Still, it had met many concerns about its quality, with US safety regulators investigating a fatal crash involving a Tesla allegedly on an automated driving system when it crashed into a firetruck in California.

Regulators are looking into several incidents in which Teslas utilizing the Autopilot technology,y crashed into parked emergency vehicles that were attending to other crashes. The firetruck investigation is just one aspect of that investigation.

Despite these issues, Musk will continue to work on the TruthGPT project. He thinks a politically correct AI will be more prone to make bad decisions than one trying to understand humanity.

Musk has recently introduced a new venture called X.AI Corp and lists himself as its director. His secretary will be his longtime adviser, Jared Birchall.

TruthGPT was announced when concerns were growing about the rise of AI tools. In fact, Musk was one of the many tech leaders who supported an open letter urging AI companies to halt development.

Related Article: Elon Musk BBC Interview Goes Viral! Twitter CEO Is His Dog? Here are Other Unbelievable Things He Said

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Florida-based lidar maker Luminar has announced that it is making a push into China to provide autonomous and automated driving vehicles for the world's largest auto market, as reported first by TechCrunch.



The company's founder and CEO, Austin Russell, revealed at Auto Shanghai, one of the biggest auto trade fairs in the world, that over a million Luminar-equipped cars would be on China's roads by 2028.

Growing Demand in China

With 500 million drivers, China has grown to be a highly sought-after location for foreign automakers and suppliers. Much of Tesla's stratospheric rise has been attributed to its success in China, which receives more than half of its deliveries and has developed into a substantial manufacturing hub for the automaker.



Compared to 57% of Americans and just 36% of Germans, 60% of Chinese consumers polled by McKinsey & Company in 2021 said they would be prepared to pay less than $10,000 for a Level 4 advanced highway pilot.

In response to the high demand for Luminar's LiDAR technology in China, the company has formed a partnership with TPK, a touch-screen supplier to Apple and Tesla based in Taiwan, to establish a new high-volume factory.

Read Also: Mercedes-Benz Develops Own Operating System to Power its Next Generation Vehicles

600,000 LiDAR Sensors

Luminar's current manufacturing locations in the US, Thailand, Mexico, and China will be supplemented by this additional facility, which will initially produce up to 600,000 LiDAR sensors annually to support awarded programs from automakers such as Mercedes-Benz.



As demand grows, the factory's capacity can be expanded further. Furthermore, TPK plans to invest in Luminar's stock to indicate its confidence in the company's potential.

Leo Hsieh, President and CEO of TPK, said, "We are truly appreciative and pleased with this opportunity to work with Luminar, a world leader in autonomous driving technology. "



"This partnership demonstrates again TPK's strong engineering and automation capabilities for mass production, in collaboration with various leading technology providers to introduce cutting-edge products to market efficiently and at speed."

LiDAR is in high demand in China for enabling next-generation autonomy and safety. The 20 million vehicles sold in China last year came from foreign-branded automakers, many of which are Luminar partners, and made up around half of that total.



The majority of the more than 20 production car models created by Luminar are intended for the Chinese market.

Volvo Cars debuted the Volvo EX90 Excellence, the latest premium version of its all-electric SUV, in Shanghai. The vehicle is equipped with Luminar lidar as a standard feature, with the Iris lidar seamlessly integrated into the roofline.

Related Article: Mercedes-Benz, Luminar Collaboration To Produce Safer Autonomous Vehicles Using Iris LiDAR Tech

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Tech tycoon Terry Gou, the founder of Foxconn, is eyeing the presidency of Taiwan and has recently cited his 40 years of experience in the global industry as a key factor in his ability to lead the country.

Foxconn Founder Promises Taiwan-China Economic Ties

Nikkei Asia tells us in a report that Gou has emphasized his ability to improve economic ties with China and dispel the illusion that Taiwan can only choose between the United States and China.

His remarks come as Beijing launches an investigation into Taiwan's trade barriers on more than 2,400 Chinese imports, emphasizing the importance of cross-strait communication.

Back in December 2022, CNBC reported that Taiwan's government said it would fine Foxconn for an unauthorized investment in a Chinese chip maker, despite the Taiwanese company's announcement that it would sell its stake.

Gou is running for the presidential nomination of Taiwan's largest opposition party, the Kuomintang (KMT), and will face New Taipei City Mayor Hou You-yi.

The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has already formally named Vice President William Lai as its candidate for the January 2024 election.

Transforming Taiwan Into a 'Tech Island'

Foxconn is a major supplier to Apple, producing a majority of its iPhones, and has recently sought to diversify its revenue base by focusing on the electric vehicle market.

According to Wion, the Taiwanese electronics giant Foxconn has recently announced plans to invest $820 million in new manufacturing facilities in southern Taiwan over the next three years to support its electric vehicle ambitions.

In a recent interview, Gou stated that he has been thinking about Taiwan's future for the past two years and hopes to transform Taiwan into a "tech island."

Read Also: Hong Kong Police Arrest 4 for Registering 7,300 SIM Cards, Fake IDs for Social Media Scams

He emphasized his efforts to secure 5 million Pfizer-BNT COVID vaccine doses in 2021, as well as his desire to host two forums per week across Taiwan.

Gou also stated that he has invited OpenAI CEO Sam Altman to visit Taiwan in June to collaborate on the island's future technological developments.

Gou Revives Political Run

Gou's ambitions to run for president of Taiwan have been around for a while. In 2019, he was defeated by Han Kuo-yu, sparking months of speculation about whether he would run as an independent before dropping out.

However, this time, Gou believes he can be a valuable leader and is confident in his ability to win the nomination.

The tech tycoon has a strong track record in the global industry and is the founder of Foxconn, the world's largest electronics manufacturer. Foxconn is in charge of assembling key components for Apple's iPhone, among other tech products.

Gou's ambitions to improve Taiwan's relationship with China come at a time when tensions between the two countries are high.

China has never renounced the use of force to take control of Taiwan, and has increased military activity around the island in recent years.

Stay posted here at Tech Times.

Related Article: Elon Musk Twitter: CEO Claims US Government Had 'Full Access' to the Public's DMs

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NamPower Managing Director Kahenge Haulofu (L) and Fang Xiang, general manager of China Energy International Group Co., Ltd. (Namibia), pose for a photo at the signing ceremony in Windhoek, Namibia, on April 17, 2023. Namibia's power utility, NamPower, and CERIM Luderitz Energy, a joint venture between Energy China and locally owned Riminii Investments, on Monday signed power purchase and transmission connection agreements to develop a 50 MW wind power plant in the coastal town of Luderitz, southwestern Namibia. (NamPower/Handout via Xinhua)

WINDHOEK, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Namibia's power utility, NamPower, and CERIM Luderitz Energy, a joint venture between Energy China and locally owned Riminii Investments, on Monday signed power purchase and transmission connection agreements to develop a 50 MW wind power plant in the coastal town of Luderitz, southwestern Namibia.

The envisaged wind power plant will be built for 1.4 billion Namibia dollars (about 96.4 million U.S. dollars) at about 16 km south of Luderitz Town, and is expected to be completed within 27 months, with commercial operation expected by July 2025, NamPower said in a statement.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, NamPower Managing Director Kahenge Haulofu said the commissioning of this project will displace 50 MW of imports, which is a step in the right direction. "The project will significantly contribute to NamPower's supply portfolio when combined with other generation projects that form part of the Integrated Strategy and Business Plan," he said.

According to NamPower, CERIM Luderitz Energy will be responsible for the complete development of the power plant, including financing, construction, operation, and maintenance, while NamPower will be the exclusive off-taker of electricity generated from the power plant for the power purchase agreement term of 25 years.

Namibia currently imports about 60 percent of its electricity from neighboring countries such as South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Zambia, making the country vulnerable to price volatility and supply disruptions. 
Did you know that Facebook might actually owe you some money?

This is thanks to the social media platform's privacy settlement payout. Recently, Meta Platforms Inc.'s faced numerous lawsuits because of the privacy issues posed by Facebook.

Meta agreed to enter a $725 million privacy settlement to cover some of these lawsuits.

Now, there's a high chance that you have a share of this million-dollar settlement payout. But, before you claim your part, here are the major details you need to know first.

Facebook Privacy Settlement Payout Could Give You Money!

According to Mashable Asia's latest report, the $725 million privacy settlement will not only be used to pay users.

Also Read: Meta Confirms Facebook, Instagram Users Can Avoid User-Tracking-but There's a Catch

Some of it will cover numerous legal and administrative fees. This means that the total payout for Facebook users will be less.

Another thing to remember is that the amount you will receive will depend on how many users will also claim their shares.

In short, the more Facebook users claim their part, the lesser money you will receive from Meta. Although this is the case, it is still worth the effort since it is free money. But are you really eligible?

Facebook Privacy Settlement Payout's Eligibility

Via its official Privacy Settlement page, Meta explained that users eligible for its Facebook privacy settlement payout are those living in the United States.

Their accounts should also be active between May 24, 2007, and December 22, 2022. If you are a U.S. resident using Facebook during the said date, you are eligible to take your share.

To do this, click here to access the claim form. Once you are there, fill out the needed information; name, city, street address, email address, contact number, etc.

When done, you can submit this form and wait for Meta's further announcement. You have until August 25 to submit the form.

Here are other stories we recently wrote about Facebook:

Recently, Facebook accounts were allegedly targeted by fake ChatGPT for the Google Chrome extension. Meanwhile, rumors claimed that Meta was working on a new Facebook Messenger feature similar to BeReal.

For more news updates about Facebook and other social media platforms, keep your tabs open here at TechTimes.

Related Article: Facebook Verified Account: Elon Musk Reacts to Meta's New Verification Subscription System

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Scientists at Washington State University have discovered a gene in multiple mammalian species that could lead to the development of an effective, reversible, and non-hormonal male contraceptive for both humans and animals.



The researchers identified the expression of the Arrdc5 gene in the testicular tissue of mice, pigs, cattle, and humans.

Decline in Sperm Count

The disruption of the Arrdc5 gene in mice resulted in infertility, leading to a decline in sperm count, motility, and shape. Professor Jon Oatley, the senior author of the study, suggests that inhibiting or deactivating this gene is a significant target for male contraceptive development.



Although there are other molecular targets for male contraception, the Arrdc5 gene is distinctive to male testes and found in multiple mammalian species.



Moreover, a deficiency in this gene leads to substantial infertility, causing a decrease in sperm production, slow mobility, and abnormal shape that prevents the sperm from fusing with an egg.



As a result, male mice without the gene produced 28% less sperm that moved 2.8 times slower than normal mice, and approximately 98% of their sperm had abnormal heads and mid-pieces.

Oatley's team will conduct further investigation to create a drug that inhibits the production or function of the protein encoded by the Arrdc5 gene.



Male contraception poses a significant challenge due to the various roles of testosterone in men beyond sperm production, such as building bone mass and muscle strength, as well as red blood cell production.



Nonetheless, disrupting this protein does not require hormonal interference. The development of a drug that targets this protein could make it simple to reverse as a contraceptive.

Read Also: 3-D Protein Model Shows Why Cats and Cattles Are More Likely Infected with COVID-19 Than Chickens and Pigs!

Provisional Patent

The team led by Jon Oatley and Mariana Giassetti has filed a provisional patent for the development of a male contraceptive based on the Arrdc5 gene and the protein it encodes.

This could potentially solve the issue of unintended pregnancies, which account for more than half of the world's pregnancies, despite the various forms of birth control available for women.

The gene is found in almost every mammalian species, providing opportunities for its use in developing male contraception for livestock and wildlife, where limiting overpopulation is necessary.

The discovery of the Arrdc5 gene as a target for male contraception is significant as it does not require hormonal interference, which can have other effects on men's health.

This would make it a convenient option for men who do not want to undergo surgery or rely on condoms. The potential reach of this discovery is immense, and it could significantly impact global population control efforts.

The findings of the study were published in the journal Nature Communications.

Related Article: Unlocking Male Contraception: Japanese Scientists Discover Key Protein for Sperm Production

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A 13-year-old boy in Ohio died as a result of a viral TikTok challenge. News.com.au reports that the challenge involves swallowing up to 14 Benadryl pills to induce hallucinations and has already resulted in hospitalizations among Australian teenagers.

Experts are now calling for immediate action to prevent further tragedies.

Viral TikTok Challenge Leads to Lethal Overdose

Jacob Stevens of Ohio was rushed to the hospital after ingesting a lethal dose of antihistamine allergy medication.

Stevens' father told ABC6 that his son's body began to shut down after six days of life support, and his family decided to let him go because his brain functions had ceased.

Jacob's father, Justin, is now dedicated to warning parents and teens about the dangers of social media and has shared a photo of Jacob hooked up to life support in the hospital to raise awareness.

The "Benadryl Challenge" is thought to have begun in 2022 and has already caused significant damage.

US FDA Sounds Alarm on Benadryl TikTok Challenge

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a statement in 2020 warning of the dangers of participating in the challenge, and it is aware of reports of teenagers ending up in emergency rooms or dying as a result.

The challenge has prompted calls for action, including age restrictions on over-the-counter drugs like Benadryl and imposing age restrictions for creating accounts on TikTok, forcing users to provide identification before being allowed on the platform.

Read Also: TikTok Ban Consequences: Banning the App Could Lead to Cybersecurity Issues-Here's Why

After the trend gained popularity, ambulance services in Australia also confirmed an alarming number of call-outs in recent weeks.

Side Effects of Benadryl Overdose

Antihistamines, such as Benadryl, have long been used as a quick fix for allergies, but they can have serious side effects that affect your entire body.

Dehydration is one of the most severe side effects of Benadryl. Antihistamines inhibit histamine production, which can cause dry mouth and throat and decreased sweating - leading to dehydration.

While dehydration can cause various problems, it can also exacerbate Benadryl's side effects. Some common side effects of dehydration include extreme drowsiness, confusion, blurry vision, nausea or vomiting, and difficulty urinating.

Benadryl manufacturer Johnson and Johnson issued a warning in the wake of its popularity, stating that excessive amounts of diphenhydramine, the active ingredient in Benadryl, can be dangerous and should be discontinued immediately.

The tragic death of Jacob Stevens has highlighted the risks associated with social media trends, as well as the need for increased awareness and regulation to prevent further harm.

Dangerous TikTok Trends

Instances of TikTok trends resulting in fatalities are not unprecedented. In 2021, a viral TikTok challenge known as the Strangulation Challenge claimed the life of a 9-year-old boy who had attempted to participate in the trend.

The following year, the FDA issued a warning about a NyQuil TikTok challenge that has also gone viral. The agency confirmed that some of the challenge participants were hospitalized.

Stay posted here at Tech Times.

Related Article: TikTok Ban Concerns: Here's How to Safely Delete Your TikTok Account

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Archaeologists have made an exciting discovery just outside Rome that sheds light on the opulent lifestyles of elite Romans during the mid-third century CE.



The remains of a unique winery have been uncovered at the Villa of the Quintilii, located along the Via Appia Antica, revealing a level of performance and luxury rarely found at an ancient production site.



The discovery was detailed by Emlyn Dood, one of the archaeologists from the British School at Rome, in an article published in The Conversation.

Ancient and Opulent

The villa complex, which spans 24 hectares, was owned by the wealthy Quintilii brothers, who served as consuls in 151 CE. Following their deaths at the hands of the Roman emperor Commodus in 182/3 CE, the villa became the property of the imperial family.



Although the site has long been known for its decorative architecture, including high-quality statuary and a monumental bathing complex, the winery is a new and exciting discovery.



It was built on top of the starting gates of a circus for chariot racing that was constructed during the reign of Commodus, which dates the winery to after his reign.



The winery possesses typical elements of ancient Roman wineries, such as a grape treading area, two wine presses, a vat to collect grape must, and a cellar for storage and fermentation.

However, the decoration and arrangement of these features are almost unparalleled in the ancient world, according to Dood.

The production areas are clad in marble veneer tiling, with even the treading area coated in red breccia marble, a luxurious material that imparts a sense of opulence despite its impracticality.



In addition to this, two immense mechanical lever presses are situated on either side of the treading area, adding to the theatricality of the production process.



After the grape juice was extracted through treading and pressing, it was channeled into a long rectangular vat. This vat bears a stamp featuring the name of the short-lived emperor Gordian, which provides valuable information about when the winery was constructed or refurbished.

Read Also: French Archaeologists Uncover Ancient Roman-era Monumental Complex from the 2nd-3rd Century AD

The Winery's Spectacle

The real spectacle of the winery, however, would have begun with the grape must pouring out of the vat and through a facade that closely resembles a Roman nymphaeum, a monumental decorated fountain.

The winery had a unique system where three central niches directed grape must out while the two end niches channeled water back underground via lead pipes. White marble channels must carry grapes into an open-air cellar area and into 16 large buried clay jars.



Three extravagant rooms adorned with geometric marble tiles surrounded the cellar, providing a space suitable for an imperial gathering. This winery was used as a "theatre" for the vintage ritual, which coincided with the ceremonial opening of the harvest.



Dood notes it is likely the emperor and his entourage reclined, ate, watched the production spectacle, and tasted the freshly pressed must.

The Villa of the Quintilii is not the only winery facility of its kind; a similar opulent marble-clad winery can also be found at Villa Magna, located about 50 kilometers southeast of Anagni. This winery was in use during the early second to early third century CE and also had a dining area that overlooked the production spaces.

The findings of the study were further detailed in Antiquity.

Related Article: Authenticated Ancient Roman Coin Reveals a Previously-Unheard Emperor from the 260s CE

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Several Japanese firms are investing in ChatGPT-like technology to increase production and efficiency. One of the most recent reports from Bloomberg says that Daiwa Securities Group Inc. has reportedly started using AI chatbots far more different than its Wall Street bank counterparts.

Starting April 2023, the second-biggest brokerage in Japan will utilize generative AI, which 9,000 domestic workers will use.

Daiwa Adopts ChatGPT Technology Anew

Bloomberg writes in its report on Tuesday, April 18, that Daiwa believes in the "limitless potential" of AI chatbots in the industry.

The financial company says that adopting ChatGPT is the "most beneficial" step it made to achieve more productivity. In doing so, Daiwa highlights that generative AI will save time and reduce costs when creating documents.

With the widespread use of ChatGPT and other similar tools, business owners and firms tend to explore more ways to maximize its usage effectively.

For OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, who also spearheaded the creation of ChatGPT, there are a lot of plans to discuss the tool's potential. The co-founder talked with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida about the AI chatbot earlier this month.

While Japanese banks are open to using AI for their operations, Wall Street banks are against ChatGPT. Some firms that banned the tool include Deutsche Bank AG, Citigroup Inc., Bank of America Corp., Wells Fargo & Co., and Goldman Sachs Group.

Speaking of Goldman Sachs, Tech Times reported that the firm's chief information officer (CIO), Marco Argenti, believed that generative AI would help engineers efficiently test and produce code. This way, writing the lines of code won't be a tedious task anymore as the machine will write them automatically with just a single prompt.

This concept is still being tested since Argenti mentioned that it's unsuitable for mass production.

Related Article: ChatGPT Can Also Create Dark and Twisted Content, One that Centers on Scams, Fake News, and MORE

Japanese Firms Are Embracing AI Chatbots

Aside from Daiwa, Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group has also adopted generative AI to boost the productivity of employees, per Nikkei Asia's report.

Of course, the company won't compromise the employee's data in exchange for improving its service. In a huge move to avoid data leaks, the financial group has decided to exclude their inputs from the training data for AI.

Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group is another Japanese firm that developed an AI chatbot with the help of Microsoft Japan. The AI tools will be launched this fall.

Meanwhile, Time. News reports that Mizuho Financial Group also shares plans to bring its own AI tool inside the company. The firm, which also partnered with Microsoft Japan, aims to protect sensitive information through this software.

Read Also: AutoGPT vs. ChatGPT: Differences, Uses, Other Details

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The first Apple India store is finally open! The iPhone maker confirmed the opening of the Apple BKC on Tuesday, Apr. 18.

The tech giant manufacturer said that it is expecting its first store in Mumbai, India, to boost its sales in the country.

Apple said that the Apple BKC store would serve as its dynamic space in India, a place where consumers can explore Apple products and services.

The iPhone maker stated that it would also allow customers to enjoy exceptional service and learn how to get more out of their devices.

First Apple India Store Finally Opens!

According to CNBC's latest report, Apple wants to boost its sales and manufacturing activities in India.

Also Read: Apple to Use Recycled Materials for Batteries, and MORE by 2025, Aligning to its 2030 Carbon-Neutral Goals

This is why the iPhone maker decided to open its first India-based store.

Although it is not the main market for gadget developers, Apple's presence in India has been there for the past 25 years.

"India has such a beautiful culture and an incredible energy, and we're excited to build on our long-standing history," said Apple CEO Tim Cook.

In February, Cook said that he sees India as a key market for Apple's growth.

In 2022, Apple was able to ship over six million iPhones in India. This is quite low compared to the 50 million iPhone shipments in the United States during that year.

However, Neil Shah, a partner at Counterpoint Research, claimed that India has the potential to reach the iPhone shipment scale in the United States.

Apple BKC Welcoming India Consumers

During the first day opening of Apple BKC, more than 100 team members of the India-based store welcomed their first visitors.

On Apple's official website, you can see numerous photos showing the success of the opening. Images of customers testing the new iPhone 14 series can be seen.

Tim Cook also visited the store during its opening. Since Apple BKC's opening is successful, the tech giant firm plans to open another store in Delhi.

Apple's second India-based store is expected to open as early as Apr. 20. You can click this link to learn more about it.

Aside from new stores, Apple is also making other efforts to improve its business.

Recently, Apple provided an update for its carbon-neutral mission. We also reported about the ramping up of Apple's 15-inch MacBook Air testing.

For more news updates about Apple and other gadget makers, always keep your tabs open here at TechTimes.

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Unfair Tesla bonus pay cuts are allegedly affecting many employees at the Giga Shanghai facility.

Numerous staff members have already shared their disappointment on the Chinese social media platform called Zhihu.

"Recently, in the Shanghai Tesla factory, ordinary employees received a notice that the company maliciously deducted wages," said a Tesla worker.

He added that being a Tesla factory staff is not an easy job; hardships are experienced from the first until the last process since they require great meticulousness and rigor.

Unfair Tesla Bonus Pay Cuts

According to CNN Business' latest report, the unfair Tesla bonus cuts amounted to almost $300 per month.

Also Read: Tesla Faces Lawsuit in California for Employee Access on Cabin Camera, Sharing its Videos Internally

This is around half of the monthly base salary for junior Tesla Giga Shanghai factory workers, which is $777.

Thankfully, Elon Musk noticed the problem. The billionaire said learned about the unfair reductions in bonuses during the weekend.

Since this is a serious issue, the billionaire confirmed that he would investigate the issue.

"Was alerted this weekend. Looking into it," said the Tesla CEO via his official Twitter account.

As of writing, Elon Musk hasn't provided any update regarding his investigation of the unfair Tesla bonus cuts in Shanghai.

But you can expect further announcements from the billionaire in the coming days.

Reason Behind Tesla Bonus Cuts

Affected employees said that the bonus pay cuts were announced after the fatal accident at the Shanghai factory, which happened in February.

They claimed that Tesla factory managers told them that the bonus cuts were needed so that they could pay for the compensation related to the welding incident.

Of course, this disappointed many factory staff because their bonuses were being reduced for something they were not responsible for.

They stated that the automaker should not penalize them because of the company's liability problems.

You can click this link to learn more about their rants about the unfair bonus pay reductions of Tesla.

In other news, a new Tesla Shanghai factory for megapack batteries was previously confirmed by the EV maker. Recently, Tesla conducted a Cybertruck suspension test to see if it is efficient against road obstacles.

For more news updates about Tesla and its EV business activities, always keep your tabs open here at TechTimes.

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This photo taken on March 15, 2023 shows excavators to be shipped at a port in Lianyungang, east China's Jiangsu Province. (Photo by Wang Chun/Xinhua)

The World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) have both raised their expectations of China's economic growth this year.

ZAGREB, April 18 (Xinhua) -- China's gross domestic product (GDP) growth in the first quarter (Q1) of 2023 is impressive and it signals even stronger growth for this year, Ljubo Jurcic, a prominent Croatian economist and former economy minister, told Xinhua in an interview on Tuesday.

"In my opinion, the Chinese economy will grow by over 6 percent by the end of this year," Jurcic said.

China's GDP grew 4.5 percent year-on-year in Q1, the country's National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said on Tuesday. "China's national economy made a good start this year, and market expectation saw significant improvement," NBS spokesperson Fu Linghui told journalists.

The spokesperson was echoed by Jurcic, who said China's economy "is just warming up" for a strong rebound later this year.

"It is a good start. China's economy will not grow 8 or 9 percent as it used to, but 6 percent for this year is quite realistic," Jurcic said.

Consumers purchase goods for the Chinese New Year at a fruit market in Yiwu, east China's Zhejiang Province, Jan. 17, 2023. (Photo by Gong Xianming/Xinhua)

The World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) have both raised their expectations of China's economic growth this year.

The World Bank increased its economic growth projection for China to 5.1 percent in 2023, significantly above its January forecast of 4.3 percent. The IMF expects China's GDP growth to reach 5.2 percent this year, a substantial 2 percentage point increase over the 2022 figure.

Jurcic explained that the World Bank and the IMF have their specific methods for forecasting economic growth. This, he said, is "not a usual situation" as China is opening up after the COVID-19 pandemic and economic activities are accelerating to make up for the losses caused by the pandemic, so China's actual growth rate could be higher than expected.

This photo taken on March 2, 2023 shows wind power blades to be exported at Yantai Port in Yantai, east China's Shandong Province. (Photo by Tang Ke/Xinhua)

Furthermore, China's strong economic rebound is beneficial not only to the country itself but also to the whole world, as it will help boost the world economy, Jurcic said, recalling that IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva's similar argument. Accordingly, China is expected to contribute about one-third of global economic growth in 2023 and provide a welcome boost to the world economy.

According to Jurcic, China has already replaced the United States and become the locomotive of the world economy.

"That used to be the United States, but now China has taken the lead. Although China's GDP is still lower than that of the United States or Europe, but its growth is two or three times higher," Jurcic said, adding that the World Bank expects the global economic growth rate to drop from 3.1 percent in 2022 to 2 percent this year, and that the U.S. economic growth rate is expected to slow down from 2.1 percent in 2022 to 1.2 percent this year. 
UNITED NATIONS, April 18 (Xinhua) -- The United States should "look squarely at" the crux of the Korean Peninsula issue and take meaningful, practical and tangible actions to create conditions for peace talks, a Chinese envoy said here Monday.

Tension persists on the Korean Peninsula with confrontations escalating, which China finds deeply concerning, Zhang Jun, China's permanent representative to the United Nations, told a Security Council meeting.

Zhang pointed out that the Korean Peninsula issue, as a legacy of the Cold War that has cast a decades-long shadow, is in essence a security issue.

Recently, the United States has been conducting frequent military exercises in the periphery of the peninsula, deploying strategic weapons such as nuclear-powered aircraft carriers and B-52 bombers, which has greatly heightened the Democratic People's Republic of Korea's (DPRK) sense of insecurity, he added.

"This is the main trigger for the current tensions on the peninsula," Zhang said.

The Korean Peninsula issue had reached an inflection point several times in the past. However, because of the flip-flop in the U.S. policy, its failure to respond on the principle of action for action, and its reversion to the old practice of sanctions and pressurization, the opportunities to solve the Korean Peninsula issue were missed time and again, he said.

"The parties should deeply reflect on the lessons from the past, and come to realize that a show of goodwill is vital to building mutual trust and creating the conditions necessary for peace talks," said Zhang. "The United States, in particular, should look squarely at the crux of the matter, adopt a responsible attitude, and take meaningful, practical and tangible actions."

All parties concerned should put themselves in each other's shoes, acknowledge each other's legitimate concerns, reduce provocations, confrontations and pressurization, and create enabling conditions whereby meaningful dialogue can resume, he said.

China is a long-standing advocate of the dual-track approach and the principle of moving forward in phases with synchronized steps, and has stressed that denuclearizing the Korean Peninsula and establishing a peace mechanism on the peninsula are both indispensable, said the envoy.

"These proposals played an important role in turning around the situation on the peninsula in the past, and will continue to guide any effort to settle the issue once and for all. All parties concerned should continue to work in this direction," said Zhang.

He also underscored the need for the Security Council to play a proper role.

Any action taken by the Security Council should be geared first and foremost towards easing the situation on the peninsula, and promoting long-term stability and security, he said.

The Security Council should not discard its even-handed approach, or become an instrument for imposing sanctions and pressure to the exclusion of other options or in the service of some countries' geopolitical strategies, Zhang said.

He emphasized that the Security Council resolutions cover not just sanctions, but also texts on resuming dialogue and resolving the issue politically.

"This should not be selectively ignored," said the envoy. 
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This aerial photo taken on April 18, 2023 shows the site of a fire at a factory building in Wuyi County of Jinhua, east China's Zhejiang Province. Eleven people were dead after a fire broke out at a factory building in the city of Jinhua, east China's Zhejiang Province, on Monday afternoon.

The casualties were trapped on the third floor of the building in an industrial area of Wuyi County after the fire raged at around 2:04 p.m. Monday, local authorities said Tuesday. The death toll was confirmed at about 4:00 a.m. Tuesday after two rounds of search and rescue. (Xinhua/Jiang Han)

HANGZHOU, April 18 (Xinhua) -- Eleven people were dead after a fire broke out at a factory building in the city of Jinhua, east China's Zhejiang Province, on Monday afternoon.

The casualties were trapped on the third floor of the building in an industrial area of Wuyi County after the fire raged at around 2:04 p.m., local authorities said Tuesday. The death toll was confirmed at about 4:00 a.m. Tuesday after two rounds and search and rescue.

Investigations into the causes of the accident are underway. 

This aerial photo taken on April 18, 2023 shows the site of a fire at a factory building in Wuyi County of Jinhua, east China's Zhejiang Province. Eleven people were dead after a fire broke out at a factory building in the city of Jinhua, east China's Zhejiang Province, on Monday afternoon.

The casualties were trapped on the third floor of the building in an industrial area of Wuyi County after the fire raged at around 2:04 p.m. Monday, local authorities said Tuesday. The death toll was confirmed at about 4:00 a.m. Tuesday after two rounds of search and rescue. (Xinhua/Jiang Han)
BEIJING, April 18 (Xinhua) -- China's civil aviation transport logged a steady rebound in the first quarter of this year, Li Yong, an official with the Civil Aviation Administration of China, told a press conference on Tuesday.

Total transport turnover of the sector stood at 23.99 billion tonne-kilometers, up 39.7 percent year on year, according to Li.

More than 129 million air passenger trips were handled in the first three months of this year, surging 68.9 percent year on year, recovering to 80 percent of the level in the same period of 2019. Of the total, international trips accounted for 2.24 million, up 717 percent year on year.

In the first quarter, cargo and mail volume of China's civil aviation sector hit 1.49 million tonnes, recovering to 89 percent of the 2019 level, Li said.

He added that the civil aviation sector is expected to maintain a steady recovery trend. 
Lori Lewis collects a plastic bag out of City Park Lake Friday April 7, 2023 as her son Jayce,7, waits with a trash bag. After seeing the large amount of litter in the lake druing a recent visit Lewis decided to spend Friday morning doing what she could to cleanup the area with her son. Lewis said she was inspired after previously volunteering with the group Keep Tiger Town Beautiful.
A memorial for 2-year-old Ezekiel Harry surrounds a trashcan on Daspit Street in Houma on Friday, July 15, 2022. Ezekiel died due to blunt force trauma to the head earlier in the week, and his remains were found in a trashcan. (Photo by Brett Duke, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune | The New Orleans Advocate) ORG XMIT: BAT2208161446391956
ZAGREB, April 18 (Xinhua) -- China's gross domestic product (GDP) growth in the first quarter (Q1) of 2023 is impressive and it signals even stronger growth for this year, Ljubo Jurcic, a prominent Croatian economist and former economy minister, told Xinhua in an interview on Tuesday.

"In my opinion, the Chinese economy will grow by over 6 percent by the end of this year," Jurcic said.

China's GDP grew 4.5 percent year-on-year in Q1, the country's National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said on Tuesday. "China's national economy made a good start this year, and market expectation saw significant improvement," NBS spokesperson Fu Linghui told journalists.

The spokesperson was echoed by Jurcic, who said China's economy "is just warming up" for a strong rebound later this year.

"It is a good start. China's economy will not grow 8 or 9 percent as it used to, but 6 percent for this year is quite realistic," Jurcic said.

The World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) have both raised their expectations of China's economic growth this year.

The World Bank increased its economic growth projection for China to 5.1 percent in 2023, significantly above its January forecast of 4.3 percent. The IMF expects China's GDP growth to reach 5.2 percent this year, a substantial 2 percentage point increase over the 2022 figure.

Jurcic explained that the World Bank and the IMF have their specific methods for forecasting economic growth. This, he said, is "not a usual situation" as China is opening up after the COVID-19 pandemic and economic activities are accelerating to make up for the losses caused by the pandemic, so China's actual growth rate could be higher than expected.

Furthermore, China's strong economic rebound is beneficial not only to the country itself but also to the whole world, as it will help boost the world economy, Jurcic said, recalling that IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva's similar argument. Accordingly, China is expected to contribute about one-third of global economic growth in 2023 and provide a welcome boost to the world economy.

According to Jurcic, China has already replaced the United States and become the locomotive of the world economy.

"That used to be the United States, but now China has taken the lead. Although China's GDP is still lower than that of the United States or Europe, but its growth is two or three times higher," Jurcic said, adding that the World Bank expects the global economic growth rate to drop from 3.1 percent in 2022 to 2 percent this year, and that the U.S. economic growth rate is expected to slow down from 2.1 percent in 2022 to 1.2 percent this year. 
Three Tennessee state legislators did what they believed their constituents wanted: They demanded  loudly  that their colleagues act to curb gun violence in the wake of a March 25 school shooting that left three 9-year-old children and three adults dead in an affluent Nashville neighborhood.
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If you thought Ladros closure last year had left a pizza-sized hole in Prahran, say hello to Rossi.

The Greville Street address that was once Ladro TAP is now a pizza restaurant by another name  Rossi. And it has a few extra tricks up its sleeve.

The menu rolls four pasta dishes and a lengthy list of snacks and salumi into the package, while the bar program is a big focus, owing to the background of owners Good Company, who own nearby bar Electric and nightclub The Emerson.

Prawn Nerano pizza is named after a town in Campania and its eponymous zucchini-heavy pasta dish Supplied

When Ladros owners Ingrid Langtry and Sean Kierce announced last November they were selling, it all fell into place for Good Company director Nick Young.

We originally had a site in Northcote earmarked for an Italian restaurant a couple of years ago, he says. They shelved those plans, but not the idea, due to the pandemic.
Father Bob Maguire Foundation board members Frank OConnor and Anthony Long have held a press conference about the beloved priests death this morning, at the age of 88.

Father Bob was someone who has given so much of his life to so many other people, said OConnor.

He wanted to create a sense of belonging, and a sense of people feeling as if they had somewhere they belong because so many of the people he dealt with, were highly marginalised, had difficult lives.

Father Bob Maguire. Credit: Joe Armao

He wanted to rescue them. And the work hes done over very many years, and Ive known Bob for 43 years and worked with him that long. Its been inspirational.

OConnor said Father Bob had left an immeasurable legacy and set a standard for societys treatment of the disadvantaged.

The legacy of Bob will be that there are communities and organisations who actually understand now because of his teachings and his example, what it means to look after people who are otherwise disadvantaged and marginalised in society.

So, thats been a great lesson for so many people, including myself and that you can easily have a great life not worrying about those other people, but hes taught us this is whats important in life.
A Coroner has urged NSW Police to review the cultural training officers receive on the history of colonisation and its ongoing impacts after an Aboriginal man drowned in a river while trying to get away from police and wasnt found for three months.

Gordon Copeland, 22, a Gomeroi man and father of three, died in the early hours of July 10, 2021, when he disappeared into the fast-moving Gwydir River at Moree in northern NSW, which was swollen from recent floods and full of debris.

Gordon Copeland, a young father, died in July 2021.

He had been a passenger in a car being followed by police, and when the car got bogged on a dirt track about 2.30am its three occupants got out to run. An officer shouted out, Police, dont move and Copeland jumped over a fence, falling down an embankment and into the river.

Police heard groaning and looked for him for about 10 minutes, leaving the scene when they believed he was not in the river and had managed to escape.
A property developer has launched a second attempt to convert the old Metro-Minerva theatre in Potts Point into a hotel and entertainment venue, this time with the promise of a luxe Parisian cabaret  but the plan is meeting ongoing community resistance.

Central Elements has amended its previous application after concerns from the City of Sydney council and opposition from community members who want the NSW government to acquire the site and restore the theatre.

A community protest in 2021 to save the Metro-Minerva Theatre in Kings Cross. Credit: James Alcock

The revised plan ditches two levels of basement parking and an underground nightclub, instead promising a 250-seat cabaret venue with a unique and international immersive entertainment experience that is unique to Sydney and Australia.

The experience in question is an antipodean outpost of French hospitality group The Paris Society, which is now looking to export its venues internationally in partnership with Accor Hotels.
A woman who stood over and berated her former partner as he bled to death in a gutter will spend at least 13 years behind bars for his murder.

Candice Harper and Benjamin McCartin were jailed on Tuesday for fatally stabbing Ricky Rowlands, 46, on a Melbourne CBD street in October 2020.

The killers, who were found guilty of murder by a jury in December 2022, had been staying at the Ibis Hotel on King Street, which was housing the homeless during COVID-19 lockdowns.

Rowlands was violent with Harper throughout their relationship. Police intervened at least 13 times, including when she suffered cuts needing stitches, the court was told.
The states peak planning body has been dragged into a legal row between the City of Joondalup and Shalom House over plans to bring the rehabs tough love program to Perths northern suburbs.

The citys lawyers have been given just over a week to convince the State Administrative Tribunal that the councils decision to refuse Shalom Houses occupancy permit should not be overturned.

Shalom House and its founder Peter Lyndon-James have also won awards for their unorthodox approach. Credit: Australian of the Year Awards

The two parties will also need to weigh in on whether they believed the tribunal had the power to launch what Senior Member Patricia Le Miere described as a collateral attack on a ruling of the Western Australian Planning Commission.

The Peter Lyndon-James-led not-for-profit called on the tribunal to intervene after the knock back brought its plan to run the womens arm of its program at Craigies Mercyville Hostel to a halt.
About 700 West Australian children with autism will be invited to take part in a new national trial examining the effects of pre-emptive intervention.

The Inklings trial, which will be run by the National Disability Insurance Agency in partnership with Telethon Kids Institute, will assist families with children showing early behavioural signs of autism.

Bill Shorten addressed the National Press Club about the NDIS reform on Tuesday morning. Credit: AAP

Government Services Minister Bill Shorten said the research would look at whether early intervention would reduce the levels of support needed later in life.

Some 700 families in Western Australia will be invited to be part of the pilot ... [to find out if] intervening earlier can assist children to have improved outcomes as they develop, he said.
KHARTOUM, April 18 (Xinhua) -- Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on Tuesday announced that it accepted an international initiative for a truce to stop the clashes with the Sudanese army for 24 hours for humanitarian reasons, while the Sudanese army said it was not aware of the truce.

"A 24-hour truce has been accepted after communication with friendly countries and the U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken," Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, the RSF commander, said on his Twitter account on Tuesday

The Sudanese army, meanwhile, said in a statement that it was "not aware of any coordination with the mediators and the international community about a truce, and the announcement by the rebellion of a 24-hour truce tends to cover up the crushing defeat it is about to receive within hours."

The violent clashes renewed on Tuesday morning around the vicinity of the Sudanese army command and the presidential palace, Khartoum International Airport, and around some RSF bases south of the capital Khartoum, according to eyewitnesses.

Sudan has been witnessing armed clashes between the Sudanese army and the RSF in Khartoum and other areas outside the capital since April 15, with the two sides accusing each other of initiating the conflict.

The tension between the two military forces has escalated since Wednesday in the Merowe region in northern Sudan, after the RSF moved military vehicles to a location near the military air base there, a move that the army considered illegal.

Deep differences have emerged between the Sudanese army and the RSF, particularly regarding the latter's integration into the army as stipulated in a framework agreement signed between military and civilian leaders on Dec. 5, 2022. 
Living on a picturesque tree-lined Perth street could increase the value of your property by up to $50,000 but there are no rules to stop developers cutting larger trees down to make way for urban infill.

The financial benefit of retaining trees is one of many arguments being made for a statewide initiative to regulate the removal of any taller than 8 metres on privately owned land in low density areas.

The group is calling for a 30 per cent Tree Canopy Target for Perth by 2040. Credit: iStock/ Supplied

The Cities of Nedlands and South Perth have voted to support regulating removals at a local level after WA Tree Canopy Advocates, representing more than 11,000 people from 16 local government areas, campaigned for the change.

The regulations are similar to statewide rules in place across many of the eastern states.
Chinese Australians feel increasingly positive about life in Australia, but have markedly different opinions from the broader population on key issues such as a potential war over Taiwan, the AUKUS security pact and the threat of Russia.

There are now 1.4 million Australians of Chinese ancestry, or 5.5 per cent of the population, making the demographic increasingly important at both state and federal elections.

Anthony Albanese and Reid MP Sally Sitou celebrate Lunar new year in Burwood. Chinese Australians make up an increasingly important demographic. Credit: Dean Sewell

The Liberal Partys review of its brutal 2022 election defeat found it was crucial to win back support among Chinese Australians, who turned against the party dramatically in key electorates as tensions between the two nations worsened. Areas with high numbers of Chinese-Australian voters continued to support Labor at the recent Aston byelection.

The Lowy Institutes third annual Being Chinese in Australia report, released on Wednesday, found just 28 per cent of Chinese Australians consider Chinas foreign policy a critical threat to Australia, compared to 65 per cent of the broader population.
The Liberal Democrats are facing an identity crisis over which new name to adopt as part of a forced rebrand triggered by the Morrison government.

The party  which currently has just one sitting MP nationwide  last year lost a High Court bid to keep its name registered federally after two decades of objections from the Liberal Party, which has long accused the minor party of harvesting votes from people mistaking them for the Coalition.

Liberal Democrat MP for Victoria David Limbrick, left, and NSW candidate John Ruddick, who remains hopeful of gaining a seat in his state parliament. Credit: The Age and Sydney Morning Herald

The deregistration was the reason the Liberal Democrats did not run a candidate at the recent Aston byelection in Victoria and instead chose to back an independent with links to the party.

However, with that byelection and the NSW state election out of the way, the partys federal executive believes now is the time to consider the name change.
NSW Premier Chris Minns passionately argued for the legalisation of cannabis while Labor was in opposition, arguing that ending the prohibition of the drug would make it safer, less potent and less criminal.

In 2019 Minns, then-shadow transport minister, told a gathering of party members in favour of drug law reform it was time for Labor to have a big debate that includes a commitment to legalising this drug.

NSW Premier Chris Minns argued in favour of legalising cannabis while a shadow minister in 2019. He now says he has changed his mind. Credit: Louise Kennerley

In a written copy of the speech circulated by Minns at the time and obtained by The Sydney Morning Herald, the now-premier argued legalisation of cannabis was preferable to decriminalisation, saying the former would allow NSW to regulate the drug.

While legalisation would make it easier to control, decriminalisation would not allow the state to regulate and control its manufacturing or distribution, he said.
All Australian schools should be fully publicly funded, free of charge and open to all students, according to a bold new school funding model proposed by two education experts.

In their report, Choice and Fairness, a Common Framework for all Australian Schools, researchers Chris Bonnor and Tom Greenwell say the funding overhaul would cost taxpayers an extra $8 billion a year but boost academic equity and achievement.

All Australian schools should be fully funded by taxpayers, researchers say. Credit: Penny Stephens

Private schools could continue to be independently owned and operated and could prioritise enrolments for families from faith backgrounds. But, the report says, private schools that want to keep charging tuition fees or to exclude certain students would not receive any taxpayer funding at all.

The reality is that our current hybrid public/private framework is not fit for purpose, Bonnor and Greenwell, both of whom also wrote Waiting for Gonski: How Australia Failed its Schools, argue in the report.
Another month, another round of Chinese military drills encircling Taiwan. US-China relations are now as tempestuous as they are entangled. And the doves, hawks, and all the birds in between are seeking solutions to navigate these tensions.

Many call for Biden to declare a formal commitment to Taiwans defence. This would end nearly 50 years of strategic ambiguity, whereby Washington keeps Beijing guessing how it would respond to an act of aggression against Taipei.

The Biden administration has scrambled to limit the damage from the leaked Pentagon information. Credit: AP

Biden has already made utterances in that direction. On four occasions he has vowed to defend Taiwan from attack, before White House aides walked the comments back. But the US should not bow to premature bluster. Strategic clarity would heighten the prospects for conflict, reduce US flexibility, and have a bifurcating effect on allies and regional players. Washington can support Taiwan more emphatically in other ways.

Proponents of strategic clarity argue it would better deter Beijing from aggression through clear articulations of US intent. This could lower the long-term risk of miscalculation and war.
Yesterdays failed attempt by the FBI to resolve the siege marked a significant - and, as it turned out, badly flawed - change in tactics in a case that has attracted world attention because of the large number of Australians, Britons, New Zealanders and Israelis among cult members. Only nine of those still in the Branch Davidian compound, on a windswept Texas prairie 15 kilometres from Waco, appear to have survived yesterdays tragedy. The FBIs operations chief in Waco, Mr Bob Ricks, said agents would begin a full search to recover bodies this morning when the heat of the blaze is expected to have subsided. The compound stretched over a full city block and is believed to involve tunnels under the main buildings. Koreshs continuing sway over his followers - survivors said he told them that they would ascend the flames and be reunited in heaven - was graphically illustrated when one female cult member attempted to go back into the inferno and had to be restrained by an FBI agent who jumped out of a tank. One Australian citizen was among the survivors of the sieges apocalyptic finale. The man, identified by Australian officials as Graeme Craddock, 31, was not hurt and was taken to a prison in Waco where most of the adults who have come out of the compound over the past seven weeks are held.

A total of 36 other compound residents, 15 adults and 21 children, have come out individually or in small groups since the standoff began. It was often speculated that Koresh was releasing those whose loyalties were least dependable so as to surround himself only with total loyalists. The way in which large numbers of them heeded his call for suicide suggested that they were indeed a loyal core. Another Australian, Oliver Gyarfas, 19, has been held in the same prison as a material witness in the case since he came out of the compound five weeks ago. Australias Houston-based consul, Mr Peter Urban, said at least seven Australian citizens remained unaccounted for after the fire. Mr Urban went to Waco last night for talks with US officials about the fate of Australian members of the cult. Our role is to ensure that those in custody get equal treatment under the law and are taken care of medically, Mr Urban said.

As many as a dozen Australian- born followers and their children were in the cult, but the exact number is unclear because many changed their citizenship. Cult leader David Koresh shown with followers at Waco compound in footage shot for Nines A Current Affair. Credit: A Current Affair FBI officials said the decision to punch holes in the faded pink walls of the L-shaped complex and drench it with tear gas was made late on Saturday night when Ms Reno finally agreed with federal officials in Waco that nothing else would work. They had tried negotiating. They had cut off the telephone and electricity, surrounded the compound with concertina wire and bombarded cult members through the night with the sounds of dentists drills, locomotives and rabbits being slaughtered. With each step the agents received no indications that the costly standoff could be ended with no further loss of life.

The siege began with a shootout with the cult in February that killed four officers from a US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms team sent to the compound outside Waco to arrest Koresh for illegal weapons possession. Ironically, the FBI became involved in the case because the ATF was perceived as having botched the original raid. Some cult members have confirmed that they stockpiled weapons in preparation for what Koresh had long prophesied would be an apocalyptic firefight with law enforcement officials that could be a precursor to the end of the world in which cult members would go to heaven. Late last night there nothing left of the compound except for a cinderblock structure amid the smouldering ruins that agents said Koresh intended as a bunker. Agents said there were many bodies inside but they could not give an exact number and there were no indications that Koreshs body had been identified.

The fire started a few minutes after noon, local time, on the second floor of the north-east wing of the wooden compound that is formally known as Mount Carmel even though the surrounding countryside is totally flat. Fed by brisk winds and some type of accelerant inside, the fire spread rapidly and the entire structure was devoured in less than half an hour. One of the last things to fall into the inferno was a pole with a flag bearing a modified Star of David which had flown since the third day of the standoff. One major question left unresolved was why there was so little preparation to fight a fire. There appeared to be no fire engines at the scene as the blaze erupted and one was not seen in the compound area until nearly 30 minutes after the fire began. Waco officials said the fire was well under way before they got a call Loading

THE LAST BATTLE 6.05am An armoured vehicle rams the wall of the compound near the front door. Tear gas is injected through the hole into the building as loudspeakers urge those inside to surrender. Cult members open fire on the tank. 7am - noon Armoured vehicles continue to punch holes in the wooden frame building, pumping in tear gas and badly damaging the exterior. 12.10pm Smoke appears from several windows, followed by flames. Twenty five minutes later the entire compound is on fire. Within minutes the buildings have all collapsed. On July 23, 2000, the Herald reported: An outside investigator has absolved Attorney-General Janet Reno and the US Government of wrongdoing in the 1993 siege near Waco, Texas, in which more than 80 people died. He blamed members of the Branch Davidian sect for shooting at their own people and starting the fire that ended the siege. Former Republican senator John Danforth said yesterday he could say with 100 per cent certainty that government agents did not start the fire, shoot at the sect members, improperly use soldiers or engage in a cover-up. The tragedy at Waco rests with certain Branch Davidians and their leader David Koresh, he said.
The gruesome end proved that Mr William Sessions, the FBIs director, is no General Norman Schwarzkopf in the area of bold strategy and flawless execution. A military helicopter buzzes past the Mout Carmel Branch Davidian compound. Credit: AP We misjudged David Koresh, Mr Sessions conceded last night. It was an unexpected end to the situation. He had said he was not going to commit suicide, our psychological profiles supported that contention and his lawyers did not believe be would do It either. The head of the FBI team in Waco, Mr Bob Ricks, supported the impression of a strategy gone awry when he described his first reaction to the sight of the flames at the site. I cant tell you the shock and horror all of us felt when we saw those flames coming out of there. It was, Oh my God, theyre killing themselves.

The Attorney-General, Ms Janet Reno, said she would simply not have authorised the raid if she thought there was a chance of a mass suicide attempt. Apart from the FBI and its director, it was Ms Reno who was taking most of the heat for what occurred last night. Obviously If I thought the chances were great of a mass suicide, I would not have approved the plan. Ms Reno tried saying the buck stopped with her and she should be held accountable within the Government. She even offered to resign. It was a gallant try but Ms Reno was besieged with other questions at her press conference. The most recurring were essentially what did the President know and when did he know it. Its the sort of question presidents hate. Mr Clinton himself looked less gallant when he lifted a statement saying that he had merely gone along with the advice of Ms Reno and the FBI. The problem now for the Clinton administration is that regardless of the branch of the US Government involved, the buck stops at the White House. Ronald Reagan had Grenada, George Bush had Desert Storm and now, it seems, Bill Clinton has Waco.

Loading Mr Reagan and Mr Bush did rather well out of the reflected glory of the boys in green; Mr Clinton might be tarnished by the missteps of the FBIs boys in blue. So why did the FBI, without too much warning or fresh provocation, reverse its seven-week strategy of waiting out the Branch Davidians for, as Mr Ricks once put it, as long as it takes? After all, the FBI had assumed that posture for a good reason. They learnt the hard way that a man who thinks he is the agent of the Lord is not going to treat agents of the Government with too much reverence before judgment day. On a Sunday morning in February other officials had gone to arrest Koresh, the self-proclaimed messiah, for breaching Texass lax weapons laws. It prompted a 45-minute gun battle in which four lawmen died.

Reasons mentioned for yesterdays tougher approach included weeks of fruitless negotiations, signs that cult members were prepared to hold out longer, a health threat posed by sanitary conditions inside the compound and fears that children were being abused. The final reason for the raid, mentioned by both Ms Reno and Mr Sessions, was that FBI negotiators were weary and there was no back-up team available to replace them. The last explanation seemed bizarre. Could not the FBI have borrowed some negotiators from the military or even the CIA? The tanks, after all, came from somewhere. There was also the strategy Mr Sessions characterised as one of gradually tightening down on the Branch Davidians. It is also known as the turn of the screw approach: the FBIs psychological warfare simulations designed to gradually wear down the will of the cultists. It involved blasting the complex with bright lights and unpleasant noises throughout the night  the Carpenters, Tibetan temple chants and the busy signal from a telephone  cutting non-sanctioned phone talk and denying Koresh a word processor to finish his tracts.

Loading With little to show for that approach the weary FBI officers might have reasoned that the only way to increase the pressure was to attack the building. The FBI seemed to believe that by breaking down the front door and filling the complex with teargas, many of the women inside simply would run out with their children. Eventually, as the teargas spread throughout the complex, the remaining members of the sect would be forced out as well. It was a gamblers strategy. None of it played out the way it was supposed to. The children were kept upstairs in a bunker and died in the conflagration that killed 86 people.
BEIJING, April 18 (Xinhua) -- Liu Jianchao, head of the International Department of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, met with a cadre delegation led by Solly Mapaila, general secretary of the South African Communist Party, in Beijing on Tuesday. Liu met separately with cadres at a workshop on the theoretical research of world communist parties led by Weerasinghe Geeganage, general secretary of the Communist Party of Sri Lanka, on the same day.

They exchanged in-depth views on strengthening exchanges and cooperation between Marxist political parties, and on promoting world peace and development. 
The Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson said on Monday that Iran and Saudi Arabia will exchange mutual visits, including high-level ones, as part of their efforts to fully restore bilateral ties.





Produced by Xinhua Global Service
TEHRAN, April 18 (Xinhua) -- Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi on Tuesday urged foreign forces, particularly those of the United States, to leave the West Asia region as soon as possible, as they are compromising regional security.

Raisi made the remarks at a ceremony in Tehran to mark Iran's National Army Day on April 18, according to the website of the Iranian president's office.

Raisi noted that those forces have failed to ensure security for the regional countries while the Iranian armed forces' presence in any part of the region has guaranteed security.

Turning to the ceremony of the National Army Day, he said the event conveys the message of "peace and friendship" to regional countries, adding that any country that wants to ensure regional security will be welcomed and backed by the Iranian armed forces.

The ceremony featured grand parades by the units of the army's four divisions, namely the ground force, the navy, the air force, and the air defense, according to the official news agency IRNA.

Raisi noted that the Iranian army is, at present, a well-equipped and modern force, which has turned the threats and sanctions into opportunities. 
BEIJING, April 18 (Xinhua) -- China's procuratorate organs are set to take strict action against cybercrimes, according to a guideline recently issued by the Supreme People's Procuratorate.

Relevant authorities will strengthen the crackdown on telecom fraud, online pornography, online gambling, and the online trafficking of illegal guns, explosives and drugs, the guideline said.

The crackdown will also target criminal organizations that use the internet to commit fraud, collect on usurious loans, or make malicious compensation claims.

Per the guideline, those who coerce, instigate or seduce minors into committing telecom or online fraud will be severely punished.

The guideline has also called on prosecutors to work with legislative and administrative organs on legislation to tackle cybercrime. 
The Cheyenne Police Department is pleased to announce the hiring of three new police officers.

Colin Brengman, Nathan Marshall, and Marissa Tucker were sworn in on Monday, April 17 at the Cheyenne Public Safety Center.

They will now attend the Wyoming Law Enforcement Academy located in Douglas, WY.

All three officers moved to Cheyenne from other areas.

Officer Tucker is a former Navy service member - originally from La Habra, California.

She became a police officer to make a positive impact in her community and continue service after the military.

Officer Brengman recently moved to Cheyenne from Laramie where he attended the University of Wyoming.

My favorite thing about Cheyenne is the people of course, he said. During my upbringing, I was always involved in community service projects, and found that helping people is a major part of who I am.

Officer Marshall relocated to Wyoming from North Charleston, South Carolina.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres (C) addresses the opening of the Financing for Development Forum at the UN headquarters in New York, on April 17, 2023. Guterres on Monday called for worldwide engagement and support to renew the international financial architecture, which he said was created for a world "no longer exists." (Eskinder Debebe/UN Photo/Handout via Xinhua)

UNITED NATIONS, April 17 (Xinhua) -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday called for worldwide engagement and support to renew the international financial architecture, which he said was created for a world "no longer exists."

Guterres made the remarks at the opening of the Financing for Development Forum, which takes place at the UN headquarters in New York from April 17 to 20.

He warned that due to a multidimensional crisis, the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are turning into "a mirage of what might have been," as communities and governments struggle to meet immediate needs.

Inequalities within some countries are regressing toward early 20th century levels, a time before women were allowed to vote, and before widespread acceptance of the concept of social protection, he said.

According to Guterres, the United Nations has proposed the SDG Stimulus plan to scale up affordable long-term financing for all countries in need, aiming to boost investments that will help to achieve the SDGs, relieve the debt burden of developing countries, and improve access to funding.

"In the longer term, we will not solve today's challenges by relying on the financial system that helped to cause them," he noted.

The global financial architecture was created for a world that no longer exists, Guterres said, adding that "it cannot address the challenges faced today by developing countries" and "has failed countries at their moment of greatest need."

It is now widely recognized that the world needs an economic system that is coherent and coordinated, and reflects today's global economic reality, a system that supports stable economic conditions and helps countries to invest in the SDGs, he said.

"We need engagement and support from all corners of the world to renew the international financial architecture and make it able to face the challenges of today and tomorrow," said Guterres. 
Batavia, NY (14020)

Today

Cloudy early with partial sunshine expected late. High near 50F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph..

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UNITED NATIONS, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Fighting in Sudan is a devastating setback for the people of the country and "must stop," said the UN Emergency Relief Coordinator on Monday.

"I am deeply concerned by the mounting deaths and injuries, which will only increase further as fighting rages on in urban areas," Undersecretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths said.

Although he did not release any statistics on casualties, Griffiths said about one-third of Sudan's population, a staggering 16 million people, needed humanitarian aid even before the fighting erupted.

"Reports that hospitals and water and electrical infrastructure have come under attack are extremely alarming," Griffiths said in a statement issued by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, which he heads.

"The clashes are preventing people, especially in cities, from accessing food, water, education, fuel and other critical services for their families," the UN relief chief said. "Health services, already precarious, could be further pushed to the brink."

He said the hostilities aggravated what was already a fragile situation, forcing UN agencies and humanitarian partners to temporarily shut many of the more than 250 programs across Sudan. The impact will be felt immediately, especially in the areas of food security and nutritional support, in a country where some 4 million children and pregnant and lactating women are severely malnourished.

"I am horrified by the deaths of humanitarian workers, including three World Food Programme staff members," Griffiths said. "I am also disturbed by reports of large-scale looting of aid and damage to humanitarian facilities, which will only hamper our efforts to reach those in need. The fighting must stop."

He said the population must be able to safely access essential services, commodities and humanitarian assistance, adding that hospitals and infrastructure for water and electricity supply must be protected. 
Press Promotion

Award winning 2B Hemp Gin seeking international trade partners

2B Hemp Gin has announced that they are looking for international trade partners, due to its recent success.

The brand is on course for expansion and is looking for trade partners with exclusive distribution rights.

Any company interested in the long-term co-operation is being urged to send their company profile and business activity information to the following e-mail address:

sales@2B.at

All requests will be treated confidentially, 2B Hemp Gin has confirmed.

The brands handcrafted Styrian Gin expression was awarded the best Contemporary gin in Austria at the World Gin Awards 2023, marking the second time they have took the prize home.

Beverage developer Dr. Armin Breinl crafted the new gin with producer Wolfgang Thomann of Distillery Aeijst.

The gin, bottled at 48% ABV, is made from organic wheat with natural additives, without artificial flavours. The producers have described the expression as distinctive with spicy notes, and long finish.

Commenting on the recent award win, developer Dr. Armin Breinl said: We are proud that our unique gin has been awarded gin. This award is a confirmation of our commitment to the highest quality and enjoyment. Next year, we will try to convince the jurors again with this gin.

Hemp Gin previously took home the prize of Best Austrian Contemporary gin in 2021, with the tasting notes on the award winning spirit mentioning cinnamon-like spicy notes on the palate with a smooth, silky and balanced finish.

18 April 2023 -

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2 Iowa Teens Plead Guilty in Spanish Teachers Beating Death

Willard Miller is led into a courtroom in Fairfield, Iowa on March 29, 2023. (Kyle Ocker/Pool/The Ottumwa Courier via AP)

Two Iowa teenagers charged in the beating death of a high school teacher pleaded guilty to first-degree murder on Tuesday.

Willard Miller and Jeremy Goodale both changed their pleas to guilty Tuesday and admitted helping kill 66-year-old Nohema Graber, their Spanish teacher at Fairfield High School. Investigators said the attack was possibly regarding a dispute over grades in Grabers class.

Prosecutors say the evidence shows both Miller and Goodale struck Graber with a bat. Miller admitted helping plan and carry out the killing but denied ever hitting Graber. Goodale testified that Miller initiated the plan to kill Graber and they both struck her.

The teachers body was found in a Fairfield park in November 2021 hidden under a tarp, wheelbarrow and railroad ties. The town of Fairfield is home to some 9,400 people and is around 100 miles (160 kilometers) southeast of Des Moines.

Prosecutors agreed to recommend a sentence between 30 years and life in prison with the possibility of parole as part of an agreement with Miller. Prosecutors said they would recommend a sentence between 25 years and life with the possibility of parole for Goodale.

(L) Jeremy Everett Goodale. (R) Willard Noble Chaiden Miller. (Assistant Jefferson County Attorney via AP)

Goodale previously agreed to testify against Miller at his trial, which was expected to begin later this week.

Goodale and Miller were both charged as adults because of the severity of the crime, but they werent subject to a mandatory sentence of life without parole because they were 16 at the time Graber was killed. Willard is now 17 and Goodale is 18.

Investigators have said that Miller met with Graber at Fairfield High School on the afternoon of Nov. 2, 2021, to discuss his poor grade in her class. Graber later drove her van to a park where she was known to take daily walks after school, authorities say. Witnesses saw her van leaving the park less than an hour later with two males in the front seat.

The van was left at the end of a rural road. After getting a phone call from Goodale, a witness later picked up Goodale and Miller as they walked to town on that road, investigators say.

In a police interview, Miller described the frustrations he had with the way Graber taught Spanish and over how the grade in her class was lowering his GPA.

Goodale testified that the two teens planned the killing for about two weeks, after Miller recruited him to help.

By Josh Funk
Two men have been arrested in New York City over a Chinese police station that has since closed. Theyre facing charges for allegedly opening it on behalf of Chinese authorities. Reports note Beijing has over a hundred of these police stations operating around the world. Human rights groups are raising concerns that the stations are used to harass and intimidate overseas dissidents.

Topics in this episode:
2 Police Forces Rebuked by Watchdog for Recording 200,000 Phone Conversations

Police are pictured in Kingston upon Thames, England, on Aug. 13, 2019. (Warren Little/Getty Images)

Britains data watchdog has rebuked two police forces for unlawfully recording 200,000 phone conversations and capturing large amounts of personal data.

The Information Commissioners Office (ICO) reprimanded Surrey Police and neighbouring and Sussex Police after it emerged they had recorded all incoming and ongoing calls when they rolled out an app on 1,015 staff members work phones in 2016.

The app automatically recorded highly sensitive conversations with victims, witnesses, and those accused of crimes.

The ICO could have given both forces a 1 million fine each but it opted for a reprimand because the fines would have to be paid for out of police budgets and that would naturally impact the general public.

But a spokesman said, The ICO considered it highly likely that the app captured a large variety of personal data during these calls and it considered that the processing of some of this data was unfair and unlawful.

Police officers that downloaded the app were unaware that all calls would be recorded, and people were not informed that their conversations with officers were being recorded, he added.

The app was originally intended to be used as recording software by specialist officers but Surrey and Sussex forces both chose to make it available for all staff to download.

The app has now been withdrawn from use and the recordings, other than those considered to be evidential material, have been destroyed, the ICO spokesman confirmed.

ICO Deputy Commissioner Stephen Bonner said, Sussex Police and Surrey Police failed to use peoples personal data lawfully by recording hundreds of thousands of phone calls without their knowledge.

He said, People have the right to expect that when they speak to a police officer, the information they disclose is handled responsibly.

The ICO said they could not even begin to estimate the amount of personal data collected during conversations between police officers and staff and members of the public.

In a joint statement Surrey and Sussex Police said the app had been unintentionally downloaded on to 432 phones.

They said immediate action was taken when the error was identified in March 2020 and access was removed to the app.

Sussex Polices Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Fiona Macpherson said, Police management of personal data is vital and we take rigorous measures to ensure this.

Sussex Police Says It Was Regrettable

She said: This case exposed a lack of governance around use of this digital application, and this is regrettable. As soon as the error was reported, we took urgent action to ensure that this did not happen again.

An ICO spokesman said, The reprimand reflects the use of the ICOs wider powers towards the public sector as large fines could lead to reduced budgets for the provision of vital services.

This case highlights why the ICO is pursuing a different approach, as fining Surrey Police and Sussex Police risks impacting the victims of crime in the area once again, he added.

But he warned: This case should be a lesson learned to any organisation planning to introduce an app, product or service that uses peoples personal data. Organisations must consider peoples data protection rights and implement data protection principles from the very start.

The two forces have been told to report back to the ICO within three months to explain what actions they have taken to address the watchdogs concerns and recommendations.

The collection of personal data is governed by the Data Protection Act and the GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) guidelines.

GDPR was introduced by the European Union in 2018 and the UK is preparing legislation to replace it in the wake of Brexit.

Earlier this month the ICO fined TikTok 12.7 million for processing the data of children under the age of 13 without their parents consent.

Last month YouTube was accused by a British parent of illegally gathering data on children under 13, which would be in breach of a UK data privacy code.

Duncan McCann, who has three children, lodged an official complaint with the ICO in which he claims YouTube gathered data on childrens viewing habits.

The complaint claims up to 5 million UK children under the age of 13 are having their location, viewing habits, and preferences logged in the data banks of YouTube, which is owned by Alphabet, which also owns Google.

PA Media contributed to this report.
9 States Join DOJs Antitrust Lawsuit Against Google

A sign on a Google building at their campus in Mountain View, Calif., on Sept. 24, 2019. (Jeff Chiu/AP Photo)

Nine states on Monday joined eight others in a lawsuit filed by the Department of Justice against Google for allegedly monopolizing multiple digital advertising technology products.

The amended lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. It accuses Google of monopolizing key digital advertising technologies, known as the ad tech stack, in violation of antitrust laws. These technologies are crucial for website publishers to sell ads and for advertisers to reach potential customers.

Arizona, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Washington, and West Virginia have joined the group of eight co-plaintiff states, which originally comprised California, Colorado, Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, Tennessee, and Virginia. The original lawsuit was filed in January.

We look forward to litigating this important case alongside our state law enforcement partners to end Googles long-running monopoly in digital advertising technology markets, said Doha Mekki, principal deputy assistant attorney general of the DOJs Antitrust Division, in a statement on Monday.

The lawsuit claims that Google forced more website publishers to use its tools to cement its dominance. It allegedly did this by neutralizing ad tech competitors through acquisitions, forcing more publishers and advertisers to use its products, and thwarting the ability to use competing products.

Google has denied the accusations and plans to defend itself in court. The company believes that it faces stiff competition in the digital advertising technology markets and that its services have benefited consumers and publishers alike. The company asked the court to dismiss the case in March.

DOJ Lawsuit

According to the lawsuit, ad tech tools have evolved to be able to instantly match a publisher with an advertiser as soon as an internet user opens a webpage with ad space to sell. This process usually entails utilizing an automated advertising exchange that conducts a high-speed auction intended to determine the most suitable match between a publisher who offers internet ad space and the advertisers who are interested in purchasing it.

But the lawsuit claims the ad tech space has been broken by Googles alleged anti-competitive practices.

One industry behemoth, Google, has corrupted legitimate competition in the ad tech industry by engaging in a systematic campaign to seize control of the wide swath of high-tech tools used by publishers, advertisers, and brokers, to facilitate digital advertising, the lawsuit claims (pdf).

Having inserted itself into all aspects of the digital advertising marketplace, Google has used anticompetitive, exclusionary, and unlawful means to eliminate or severely diminish any threat to its dominance over digital advertising technologies.

When the DOJ first announced the lawsuit, Attorney General Merrick Garland said that for the last 15 years, Google has attempted to eradicate or significantly reduce any challenge to its control over digital advertising technologies.

No matter the industry and no matter the company, the Justice Department will vigorously enforce our antitrust laws to protect consumers, safeguard competition, and ensure economic fairness and opportunity for all, Garland said in a statement.

Google Claims DOJ Misconstrues Its Efforts

Google argued in a court filing that the DOJs lawsuit that the lawsuit brought by the DOJ does not take into account competition from other major players in the online advertising industry and does not meet the legal requirements for claiming that Google has a monopoly.

The company further stated that the DOJs case is based on the assumption that Googles business decisions over the past 15 years were part of a strategy to gain power and eliminate competition, without considering the various competitive pressures and consumer interests that shape the dynamic digital marketplace.

Success in the digital advertising marketplace depends on placing advertisements on the most relevant publisher webpages or mobile applications in ways that most appeal to viewers. So in developing its ad tech tools, Google considers the interests of advertisers, publishers, and internet users, the company argued in a motion to dismiss the case (pdf).

Plaintiffs misconstrue Googles efforts to compete to serve the interests of all of these customers as a corruption of legitimate competition. Plaintiffs characterize Googles every business decision over the past 15 years as evidence of a long-term scheme to amass power and choke out competition, ignoring the competitive pressures and customer interests driving Google in a dynamic and multi-sided marketplace.

In a previous statement, Google indicated its intention to defend itself against the claims.

The DOJs lawsuit does not reflect the dynamic digital advertising industry and ignores key players we compete against every day, said Dan Taylor, Googles vice president of global ads, in a statement. The DOJs lawsuit is wrong on the facts and the law and we will continue to defend against it in court.

Taylor was referring to companies like Facebook, Amazon, Microsoft, and other Big Tech companies.
A Texas musician had the best response when his mom, who has a larger-than-life personality, tried to set him up with a cashier while she bought socks for him.

Musician Todd Youngblood lives in Dallas, Texas. He speaks to his beloved mom, Melody, daily, and she doesnt hide her desire to find him a woman. But when Melody called to say shed met a nice, normal cashier while buying socks and had given out Todds email address, the musicians response was priceless.

He shared their call on Instagram, and the story turned into a three-part saga, earning Todds mom a fanbase.

Todd Youngblood with his mother, Melody, when he was a kid. (Courtesy of Todd Youngblood)

Todd told The Epoch Times, My mom is a people person at heart, Ive never met anyone who didnt absolutely love her. Its not surprising she started chatting up a cashier and talking about her kids!

Melody Youngblood, who lives in Todds hometown of Amarillo, Texas, and works as a mental health counselor at West Texas A&M University, was on a girls trip to Washington, D.C., when she stopped for a pair of souvenir socks for her son.

I figured Id be on the lookout for some neat George Washington or Abe Lincoln socks for him, Melody said. We went into this cute little gift shop and I just started chatting it up with this nice cashier who was from a small town. We just started talking about where she is from, what her folks do, and what her future plans are. She seemed so nice and normal! Come to find out she is a music fan, and I told her that my son loves music as well!

Melody settled on the George Washington socks but not before showing the cashier Todds Instagram page and giving out his email address.

Toddy has been trying to meet some nice girls, Melody said. He doesnt always like it if I give his info out, so Ive toned it down a bit but Momma is just trying to help!

Although Todd rolls his eyes every time his mother brings up another girl that she thinks is perfect for him in their conversations, he knows her intentions are good and that she means well.

As to what he thought about his mother giving out his email to the cashier, he said: I wasnt surprised when I heard she gave out my email but I was a little embarrassed. I asked her why she couldnt have just given my number!

(Courtesy of Todd Youngblood)

Todds fun-loving mother has always been on board with sharing their conversations on social media. However little did Melody know that sharing this conversation on Instagram would make her the star of the show.

Its been cool seeing all the reaction to these videos on Instagram, Todd told The Epoch Times. Ive had tons of people comment about loving my mom and Ive had several people reach out saying they could be my next D.C. girl.

In Part 2 and Part 3 of the saga, Todd revealed that he had not yet heard from the cashier at the gift shop, and his mother insisted she still had the womans number.

Moms been a solid wing-woman! She says the contact info is buried somewhere in her purse, Todd said, Id prefer to reach out to people who live in Dallas but if I get an email from her, Ill definitely say hello.

(Courtesy of Todd Youngblood)

(Courtesy of Todd Youngblood)

Todds passion for music began in college when a roommate of his gifted him a guitar. He soon discovered his love for expressing vulnerability through lyrics and joined songwriting circles and open mic nights in Houston. His first album in 2020 was a collection of songs about his family and personal struggles.

Today, Todd plays live around North Texas almost every weekend with his band, Todd Youngblood & The Lords Work. Their latest album, Moons & Mornings, is available on all streaming platforms and Todd describes their sound as classic Americana with nods to Tom Petty, alternative rock, and country.

I wrote about adventures I had in my RV too, where I was living at the time, Todd said.

His proud mom insists her son is the whole package, and supports him in all of his endeavors.

I hope Toddy can tour with his music and get a record deal one day! Melody said. I also hope he can find a nice young lady to settle down with, once the time is right. I love my son and at the end of the day I just want him to be happy.

Todd, who talks to his mom about everything from daily errands to dreams and struggles, said: I know not everyone has a relationship with their folks like I do, and Im grateful for that.  I would definitely like to find love one day.

Im holding out for the right person, while working on being the best person I can be!

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
Airbus, Air France Acquitted Over 2009 RioParis Crash

Workers unload debris, belonging to crashed Air France flight AF447, from the Brazilian Navy's Constitution Frigate in the port of Recife, northeast of Brazil, on June 14, 2009. (Eraldo Peres/AP Photo)

PARISA French court on Monday acquitted Airbus and Air France of manslaughter charges over the 2009 crash of Flight 447 from Rio to Paris, prompting an outpouring of anguish from people whose loved ones were killed in a disaster that led to lasting changes in aircraft safety measures.

Some erupted in sobs, others listened in stunned silence as the presiding judge read out the decision, a devastating defeat for families of the 228 victims, who fought for 13 years to see the case reach court.

The three-judge panel ruled that there wasnt enough evidence of a direct link between decisions by the companies and the crash. The official investigation found that multiple factors contributed to the disaster, including pilot error and the icing over of external sensors called pitot tubes.

We are sickened. The court is telling us, go on, theres not a problem here, theres nothing to see, said Daniele Lamy, who lost her son Eric in the crash and heads an association for families of victims.

For the powerful, impunity reigns. Centuries pass, and nothing changes, she said. The families of victims are mortified and in total disarray.

While the court didnt find the companies guilty of criminal wrongdoing, the judges said that Airbus and Air France held civil responsibility for the damages caused by the crash, and ordered them to compensate families of victims. It didnt provide an overall amount, but scheduled hearings in September to work that out.

Air France has already compensated some families of those killed, who came from 33 countries. People from around the world were among the plaintiffs.

Brazilian Nelson Faria Marinho lost his son, an engineer heading to Angola on an oil exploration job when Flight 447 crashed.

France isnt serious. It manufactured a killer plane and theyre covering everything else up, said Marinho, who heads an association representing 56 Brazilian families of victims.

But he said the ruling wasnt a surprise.

With all the accidents, all the tragedies, the first thing they do is blame the pilot, which isnt true. I accompanied this tragedy step by step, he said. He described the plane as excessively automatic. It is a killer plane and they didnt correct it.

Unusually, even state prosecutors argued for acquittal, saying that the two-month trial didnt produce enough proof of criminal wrongdoing by the companies.

Prosecutors laid the blame primarily on the pilots, who died in the crash. Airbus lawyers also blamed pilot error, and Air France said the full reasons for the crash will never be known.

Air France said in a statement that the company took note of the ruling, and will always remember the victims of this terrible accident, and express deep compassion to all of their loved ones.

Workers unloading debris, belonging to crashed Air France flight AF447, from the Brazilian Navys Constitution Frigate in the port of Recife, northeast of Brazil, on June 14, 2009. (Eraldo Peres/AP Photo)

Airbus and Air France had faced potential fines of up to 225,000 euros ($219,000) each if convicted of manslaughter. That would have been just a fraction of their annual revenues, but a criminal conviction for the aviation heavyweights could have hurt their reputations and reverberated through the industry.

The A330-200 plane disappeared from radar in a storm over the Atlantic Ocean on June 1, 2009, with 216 passengers and 12 crew members aboard. It took two years to find the plane and its black box recorders on the ocean floor, at depths of more than 13,000 feet (around 4,000 meters).

An Associated Press investigation at the time found that Airbus had known since at least 2002 about problems with the type of pitot tubes used on the jet that crashed, but failed to replace them until after the crash.

Air France was accused of not having implemented training in the event of icing of the pitot probes despite the risks. Airbus was accused of not doing enough to urgently inform airlines and their crews about faults with the pilots or to ensure training to mitigate the risk.

The crash led to changes in regulations for airspeed sensors and in how pilots are trained.

The trial was fraught with emotion from the start. Distraught families shouted down the CEOs of Airbus and Air France as the proceedings opened in October, crying out Shame! as the executives took the stand. Dozens of people who lost loved ones stormed out of the court as the trial wrapped up with the prosecutors surprising call for acquittal.

Fourteen years of legal proceedings to get here. This is a lot for us to take, Michel Mammayou, whose daughter was aboard Flight 447, said after Mondays verdict.

By Nicolas Vaux-Montagny
Artificial Intelligence Could Automate Two-Thirds of All American Occupations: Goldman Sachs

Attendees take pictures and interact with the Engineered Arts Ameca humanoid robot with artificial intelligence as it is demonstrated during the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, Nev., on Jan. 5, 2022. (Patrick T. Fallon/AFP via Getty Images)

Two-thirds of occupations across America could be partially automated by artificial intelligence (AI), Goldman Sachs economists have warned.

In a report published on April 5, economists Joseph Briggs and Devesh Kodnani said that a new wave of AI systems, such as ChatGPT, could have a major impact on employment markets across the globe, while advances in such technology could trigger shifts in workflows that could expose the equivalent of 300 million full-time jobs to automation.

As part of their report, the two economists analyzed databases detailing the type of tasks performed in over 900 different occupations and estimated that about two-thirds of U.S. occupations are exposed to some degree of automation by AI.

In addition, they forecast that roughly a quarter to as much as half of the workload in the exposed occupations could be replaced by AI.

Despite significant uncertainty around the potential for generative AI, its ability to generate content that is indistinguishable from human-created output and to break down communication barriers between humans and machines reflects a major advance with potentially large macroeconomic effect, the economists wrote.

While they acknowledge concerns regarding advanced AI and possible job losses, Briggs and Kodnani note that not all automated work will definitely translate into layoffs.

Although the impact of AI on the labor market is likely to be significant, most jobs and industries are only partially exposed to automation and are thus more likely to be complemented rather than substituted by AI, the economists wrote.

Effects Could Be Profound

In addition, jobs displaced by automation have historically been offset by the creation of new jobs, and the emergence of new occupations following technological innovations accounts for the vast majority of long-run employment growth, they added.

The Goldman Sachs economists did, however, point to the benefits of advanced AI making its way into business and society, such as enhanced productivity and sales efforts and improved manufacturing among companies, as well as better patient diagnosis in health care settings.

This, they say, could lead to an almost $7 trillion increase in global GDP.

While much is unknown about how generative AI will influence the world economy and society, and it will take time to play out, there are clear signs that the effects could be profound, the economists concluded.

The latest report comes after a March 27 research paper (pdf) by the University of Pennsylvania and OpenAI employees found that the majority of white-collar jobs in the United States can be completed more efficiently with the help of the artificial intelligence system ChatGPT.

Specifically, that study found that roughly 80 percent of the U.S. workforce could have at least 10 percent of their work tasks affected by the introduction of large language models like ChatGPT, while approximately 19 percent of workers could see at least 50 percent of their tasks impacted.

Amid the growing race to develop and deploy ever more powerful advanced AI systems, multiple industry experts are calling for increased caution, including Sundar Pichai, the CEO of Google and its parent Alphabet.

Musk Warns of Potential for Civilizational Destruction

While speaking in an interview with CBSs 60 Minutes on April 16, Pichai warned that every product of every company will be impacted by the rapid development of AI, adding that he was left speechless after reviewing test results from a number Googles AI projects such as Bard.

Elsewhere, Twitter CEO Elon Musk has addressed the potential threats posed by advanced AI technology.

During an interview with Fox News host Tucker Carlson that aired in two parts on April 1718, Musk said that AI poses potential risks to society and humanity.

AI is more dangerous than, say, mismanaged aircraft design or production maintenance, or bad car production in the sense that it has the potentialhowever small one may regard that probability, but it is non-trivialit has the potential for civilizational destruction, Musk told Fox.

Last month, the industrialist joined more than 1,100 individuals, including experts and industry executives such as Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak, Stability AI founder, and CEO Emad Mostaque, in signing an open letter calling on all AI labs to immediately pause training of systems more powerful than Chat GPT-4 for at least six months.

In their letter, experts warned that contemporary AI systems are now becoming human-competitive at general tasks and questioned whether or not we should automate away all the jobs, including the fulfilling ones.

Should we develop nonhuman minds that might eventually outnumber, outsmart, obsolete, and replace us? Should we risk loss of control of our civilization? Such decisions must not be delegated to unelected tech leaders, the letter stated.

The March 22 letter has so far been signed by more than 26,000 individuals.
An Australian GP, who has sued medical regulators for suspending his registration after he said COVID-19 vaccines were dangerous, has applied for his lawsuit to be adjudicated by the countrys highest court.

In August 2022, the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) suspended the registration of North Brisbane GP registrar William Bay after he interrupted a national Australian Medical Association conference in late July and told the doctors present to stop forcing vaccines on people.

In enforcing its authority, the medical regulator said it believed Dr. Bay posed serious risks to persons and that immediate action needed to be taken to protect public health or safety.

APRHA has taken the stance (pdf) that vaccination is a crucial part of the public health response to the COVID-19 pandemic and that registered health practitioners have a vital role in COVID-19 vaccination programs and in educating the public about the importance and safety of COVID-19 vaccines to ensure high participation rates.

Any promotion of anti-vaccination statements or health advice which contradicts the best available scientific evidence or seeks to actively undermine the national immunisation campaign (including via social media) is not supported by National Boards and may be in breach of the codes of conduct and subject to investigation and possible regulatory action, APRHA and the National Boards said in 2021.

This stance has meant that many Australian doctors could not speak about their reservations around the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, despite a wealth of evidence from international studies discussing adverse reactions to the vaccines causing issues like myocarditis, pericarditis and other post-COVID vaccine syndromes.

The suspension pushed Dr. Bay to file a lawsuit against the AHPRA and the Medical Board of Australia in November 2022 to regain his registration.

The GP cited many reasons for his claim, including the allegation that the medical regulators did not have a valid legal existence as a national authority because they were formed by Queensland statute.

In addition, he said the AHPRA suspended his registration under the Health Practitioner Regulation National Law, which he claimed was a law that didnt exist as it was not passed by the federal parliament.

Bay also alleged that his suspension was a suppression of a doctors right to free speech and his or her ability to warn patients about the dangers of vaccines or any other medical treatment by AHPRA.

The Queensland Supreme Court was supposed to settle the lawsuit in a two day-hearing in late March 2023. However, on March 6, Bay made an application to have his lawsuit removed to the High Court.

The Reason Behind Dr Bays Decision

Dr. Bay told The Epoch Times that he made the decision after his opponents sought to have the lawsuit dismissed in the Supreme Court on the basis that his argument lacked any legal merit.

One of the primary reasons was that they argued that my matter should have been heard in a tribunal, which is the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal, not in the Supreme Court, let alone the High Court, Bay said.

In response to the AHPRAs arguments, Dr. Bay said the matter of his lawsuit contained a significant level of public interest and importance that it needed to be heard in a court with national jurisdiction.

According to the court documents seen by The Epoch Times, Queensland Supreme Court Chief Justice Helen Bowskill issued a court order on March 22 in which she adjourned Dr Bays lawsuit indefinitely to have the matter removed to the High Court.

The matter is now before the High Court, and the court will determine whether to adjudicate the lawsuit.

AHPRAs Suspension Brings Significant Hardship

Dr Bay told The Epoch Times that he was in financial difficulty because he was unable to work as a doctor during the suspension period.

The GP also said a compliance letter issued to him in August 2022 by AHPRA and the Medical Board of Australia had prohibited him from working in any field remotely connected to healthcare, including administration, teaching, advisory, research and so on.

Dr William Bay (left) is seen talking to supporters and media outside the Queensland Supreme Court in Brisbane, Australia, on Nov. 30, 2022. (AAP Image/Darren England)

Moreover, Dr Bay noted that even if he won the lawsuit, he was likely unable to resume his previous career.

I have been expelled from the GP Registar specialty training program with the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, he said.

So even if I am cleared of all temporary suspension charges and allowed to work again, I am unlikely to ever be allowed to resume my career again (as I would have to apply for a place back in the college again and start all over again), especially when new continuing professional development requirements are taken into account.

Personally, the suspension has put a great strain on my relationships with my family and friends, and I have needed to sell my home and am currently renting.

During his lawsuit application in November 2022, Dr Bay requested the Queensland Supreme Court to issue an interlocutory injunction to restrain the AHPRA and the Medical Board from enforcing their compliance letter against him, arguing that it was beyond the power of the medical regulators.

However, the court dismissed his request on March 22, the same day it agreed to remove his lawsuit to the High Court.

Read More Australian GP Sues Medical Regulators over Registration Suspension for Speaking Against COVID-19 Vaccines

Censored for Speaking Against COVID-19 Vaccines

Dr Bay said he had been subject to censorship for expressing his views on the ineffectiveness and danger of the COVID-19 vaccines.

I have had my QLD Peoples Protest Facebook page unpublished after protesting outside Pfizer Headquarters in Melbourne, and I have had my license as a doctor suspended under an abuse of AHPRAs emergency powers, he said.

Bay noted that his professional views on COVID-19 vaccines were clearly documented and supported by many references and scholarly work in his 45-page written submission to AHPRA.

Yet, AHPRA did not contest any of my medical or scientific evidence, he said.

Instead, they declared me a serious risk to the safety of Australians by the mere action of me speaking out against their COVID policy views, which are now heavily discredited and have resulted in the injury and harm to tens of thousands of Australians.

The suspended GP also said that as long as doctors were prohibited by AHPRA from telling the truth, or what they believed to be the truth about what was best for their patients, Australia would have a completely unethical and dysfunctional medical system.

AHPRAs sanctioning of doctors for merely doing their ethical and professional duty to warn patients of relevant risks regarding medical treatments is unprecedented in this country and will have devastating long-term effects on the trust Australians place in both doctors and their governments, he said.

At the same time, Dr. Bay believed the reason AHPRA was pushing COVID-19 vaccines on Australians was due to a lack of medical expertise on the board.

Not a single member of the eight-member board led by Gill Callister is a doctor, he said.

AHPRA arrogantly and wrongly believes it knows whats medically best for each and every individual Australian without taking a single patient history, doing an allergy test, conducting an exam or even meeting the patient.

The real question is why are taxpayers sending doctors to medical school to be overruled by these unqualified bureaucrats? AHPRA and the Board need to be held accountable for this extreme government overreach.
Chinese Vice President Han Zheng meets with Francisco Bustillo Bonasso, minister of Foreign Affairs of the Oriental Republic of Uruguay, in Beijing, capital of China, April 18, 2023. (Xinhua/Yao Dawei)

BEIJING, April 18 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice President Han Zheng met with Francisco Bustillo Bonasso, minister of Foreign Affairs of the Oriental Republic of Uruguay, in Beijing on Tuesday.

Han noted that in recent years, under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, China-Uruguay relations have shown a sound momentum of development.

The two countries should take the 35th anniversary of the bilateral ties as an opportunity to deepen political mutual trust, promote practical cooperation, strengthen people-to-people exchanges, and enhance strategic coordination, so that the China-Uruguay strategic partnership will be further promoted, Han said.

He said China is ready to share development opportunities with Uruguay, support each other in independently exploring the path of modernization and jointly move towards prosperity.

Bustillo said although the two countries are far apart geographically, their relations have continued to develop and the bilateral cooperation remains steady.

Uruguay firmly adheres to the one-China principle, and looks forward to strengthening cooperation with China in various fields for a better future of the two countries and two peoples, Bustillo added. 
Biden Is Emboldening China to Invade Taiwan

Taiwanese flags at the Ministry of National Defense of Taiwan in Taipei, Taiwan, on Dec. 26, 2022. (Ann Wang/Reuters)

Commentary

Originally published by Gatestone Institute

China just substantially reduced a three-day no-fly zone it had declared northeast of Taiwan. The zone, originally scheduled to run from April 16 to April 18, was scaled back to just 27 minutes on April 16.

Chinas Maritime Safety Administration said the closure was due to aerospace activities. Apparently, the initial stage of a Chinese space launch vehicle will be falling back to Earth at that time.

Taiwan said it had objected to the duration of the Chinese zone as initially announced. Others, including aviation authorities, complained to Beijing as well.

The substantial reduction in duration shows that China, despite protestations to the contrary, reacts to pressure. Can the international community pressure China into abandoning its push to absorb the Republic of China, as the island is formally known?

Beijing says it is unmovable on Taiwan. As Chinas Ministry of Foreign Affairs declared in August 2022, There is but one China in the world, Taiwan is an inalienable part of Chinas territory, and the Government of the Peoples Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China.

Beijing is certainly movable, and contrary to assertions, its foreign policy is not principled. Throughout the history of the Peoples Republic, the countrys external policies have been tightly bound to internal political intrigue and have changed accordingly. At the moment, Chinese leader Xi Jinpings favored form of diplomacy is intimidation, so he tries to make it appear that he will never change his positions.

He can change, even on Taiwan. Given the right U.S. policies, Chinas regime can be deterred.

Does Washington now have the right policies? For decades, the United States has tried to manage the situation across the Taiwan Strait by not angering Beijing. Washington has maintained a policy of strategic ambiguity, in other words, not telling either China or Taiwan what the United States would do in the case of imminent conflict.

Strategic ambiguity was developed in part to prevent Taiwan from invading China, but after the democratization of the island, that has not been a concern. Despite the change in circumstances, Washington has kept the policy in place.

Defenders point out that strategic ambiguity has in fact kept the peace across the Taiwan Strait, but the policy has worked in a generally benign period. Unfortunately, Xi Jinpings almost constant threats make it clear that the current era is anything but benign.

Now, many call for strategic clarity, telling Chinese leaders in no uncertain terms that the United States will defend Taiwan from a Chinese attack.

President Joe Biden on four occasions ditched ambiguity and clearly stated the United States would fight. On 60 Minutes in September 2022, for instance, Biden responded to a question from Scott Pelley by declaring the United States would send troops to defend Taiwan if in fact there was an unprecedented attack.

The administration, unfortunately, immediately walked back the presidents clear statement. After the interview, a White House official said U.S. policy on Taiwan has not changed, CBS News reported. Bidens unambiguous words were in fact a stark change from the United States decades-old policy of strategic ambiguity.

White House and administration officials, both anonymously and on the record, contradicted the president on all four occasions. The Chinese certainly see not firmness in the Biden administration but disarray.

This disarray has almost certainly emboldened Beijing to act even more aggressively.

So, what must Biden do at this late date to reestablish deterrence?

Washington should offer to recognize Taipei as the legitimate government of Taiwan if it wants the United States to do so, offer a mutual defense treaty to Taipei, on an emergency basis begin moving weapons and supplies to the island, and base troops there as a tripwire.

Many will say these stepssimilar ones on the Korean peninsula have workedare risky. Yes, they are, but Biden has allowed the situation to deteriorate across the Taiwan Strait, so he has to consider policies once considered extreme.

In any event, saying something is risky is not a meaningful objection these days. Three decades of misguided Taiwan and China policies have left Washington with no risk-free options. Everything is risky, everything is dangerous, and the most risky and dangerous option is to continue with policies that created this situation in the first place.

A missile from the rocket force of the Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) takes part in operations during the combat readiness patrol and military exercises around the Taiwan island, on April 7, 2023. (Liu Mingsong/Xinhua via AP)

What would China do in response to these recommended steps? Beijing always says, Taiwan independence means war.

That statement, in substance, is silly. The Republic of China is already an independent state according to the standards established in the Montevideo Convention on the Rights and Duties of States. Beijing is really saying that any declaration by Taipei formally abandoning claims to China is independence as that would be tantamount to declaring there are two separate states, one China and the other Taiwan.

Would the Chinese actually go to war over such a declaration? Beijing claims that its casualty-tolerance is Chinas decisive advantage in any fight with the U.S.

Not so.

On the night of June 15, 2020, the Peoples Liberation Army launched a surprise attack on Indian forces in Ladakh, south of the Line of Actual Control in the Himalayas. India immediately announced that 20 of its soldiers had been killed, but Beijing said nothing about casualties until Feb. 19 of the following year, when it reported that four troopers had died. Indian sources reported their belief that about 45 Chinese had in fact been killed, and TASS, the Russian news agency, issued a release agreeing with Indias assessment of the Chinese death toll.

Beijings long delay in reporting Ladakh casualties suggests the Communist Party would be hesitant to fight to take Taiwan. China, in short, can be deterred by the prospect of massive casualtiesor maybe even just a few of them.

Ultimately, the Biden administration, to establish deterrence, must possess the forces in the field to inflict casualties on China. The U.S. failed to keep pace with Chinas burgeoning conventional threat to Taiwan, so the United States has no choice but to initiate a crash program to rebuild a regional/tactical nuclear deterrent, from nuclear artillery shells to short-, medium-, and intermediate-range nuclear-tipped missiles, Richard Fisher of the International Assessment and Strategy Center told Gatestone.

History can repeat itself. In the Cold War in Europe, the United States deterred a militarily superior Soviet Union with its announced willingness to use nuclear weapons, and Ronald Reagans deployment of the nuclear-tipped Pershing II missile held back an aggressive Moscow. Biden, however, has made it clear that he abhors nukes.

Biden, therefore, had better come up with a plan quick. Look at the military exercises, and also their rhetoric; they seem to be trying to get ready to launch a war against Taiwan, Taiwans Foreign Minister Joseph Wu told CNN this month. Taiwan evidently thinks there is not much time before China attacks.

The Eastern Theater Command of Chinas Peoples Liberation Army just declared that it is now ready to fight. Biden, on the other hand, doesnt appear ready to reestablish deterrence in an era of Chinese aggression and belligerence.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Bloc Leader Questions Trudeaus Judgment on Jamaica Stay at Wealthy Friends Estate

Bloc Quebecois Leader Yves-Francois Blanchet speaks in the foyer of the House of Commons in Ottawa on March 9, 2023. (The Canadian Press/Justin Tang)

The ethics commissioner saw no issue with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau vacationing in Jamaica at a wealthy friends estate, but Bloc Quebecois Leader Yves-Francois Blanchet says it still shows a lack of judgment.

Theres a lack of consideration and respect for the average citizen in that behaviour, Blanchet said at a press conference in Ottawa on April 18.

CBC reported earlier that day that Trudeau stayed at the Ocho Rios estate of family friend Peter Green during the holidays. The estate has five residences costing between $1,100 and $7,000 a night during peak season.

The Green family made a large donation to the Trudeau Foundation two years ago, reported CBC.

Blanchet said Trudeau has the right go on vacation like everybody else and that his transportation and security come at a normal cost, but he expressed concerns about Trudeau living in opulence while many people are worried about paying their mortgage.

He also questioned whether Trudeau was aware of the donation to the foundation and asked whether the amount would be revealed, and whether he paid himself for his stay in Jamaica.

The PMO did not tell CBC whether Trudeau paid for his accommodation and other expenses, only that he reimbursed the equivalent value of the commercial flight for a personal trip.

An Inquiry of Ministry tabled by the government on March 20 in relation to the trip says the RCMP expenses for ensuring the security of the prime minister for his vacation totalled $115,526. Travel costs for the Royal Canadian Air Force crew was $29,951. Another $20,030 was spent for government officials who also travelled.

Trudeau defended the trip in the House of Commons on April 18, saying the Trudeau and Green families have been friends for 50 years. When one has a friend, well often go visit them, he said.

Trudeau also remarked that the trip was cleared by the ethics commissioner, as also reported by CBC. But CBC says its unknown if the commissioner was aware of the donation to the Trudeau Foundation.

Former ethics commissioner Mary Dawson had cleared Trudeau regarding the 2016 Chinese donation to the foundation, saying she accepted Trudeaus word he had stopped being involved with the organization after entering politics in 2013.

Information suggests Trudeau was still active with the Foundation in 2014, the year it signed a deal with Chinese Communist Party adviser Zhang Bin for a $200,000 donation.

But MPs are allowed to hold positions in non-profit organizations, as long as they are able to fulfill their obligations under the Conflict of Interest Code for Members of the House of Commons, ethics commissioner spokesperson Melanie Rushworth told The Epoch Times.

Neither the Prime Ministers Office nor the Trudeau Foundation have responded to questions about the exact date of Trudeaus withdrawal from the foundations activities.

The Trudeau Foundation leadership resigned on April 11 over how the Chinese donation was handled and the ensuing fallout.

In light of new revelations about the Foundation, including those reported by Le Devoir saying the Foundation had inserted itself in the Chinese donation deal initially only involving the Universite de Montreal, Blanchet took the opportunity to again call for a public inquiry into foreign interference.

He said what he calls a lack of judgment on Trudeaus part on his vacation and other issues should prevent him from making decisions in relation to a future inquiry.

It does raise the question about how can he pretend that he would be legitimate to play any role in the definition of a mandate or the nomination of some presidency to an inquiry of which he would be one of the main subjects, he said.
Bridal Mogul Hedda Kleinfeld Schachter Dies at 99

A general view of atmosphere during Gilt Celebrates Kleinfeld Bridal's first ever digital sample sale in their Manhattan store at Kleinfeld in New York on Jan. 12, 2015. (Andrew Toth/Getty Images for GILT)

NEW YORKHedda Kleinfeld Schachter, a bridal industry mogul and Holocaust survivor, has died in Manhattan. She was 99.

Word of her March 29 death has spread steadily, drawing her praise and reflecting her decades-long impact on an industry that once offered few options for would-be brides before she expanded the possibilities, attracting women to her Brooklyn business from across the world.

A posting about the death on the website of the Bridal Council, a non-profit organization of industry powerbrokers, contained comments from Barbara Tober, former editor-in-chief at Brides magazine. She said Schachter brought new life, new designs, new elegance and certainly prosperity to the world of bridal.

She added: We are all better off because Hedda led the charge when we most needed a role model.

Born in Vienna, Austria, the woman known more commonly as Miss Hedda and other family members escaped the Holocaust by fleeing to Cuba. A year later, they moved to Brooklyn, where her father opened a store that initially specialized in furs but would later become I. Kleinfeld & Son.

And a year after that, she was married to Jacob Schachter, who died in 2008.

By the late 1960s, Schachter began importing wedding dresses from Europe and sales quickly accelerated, leading the business to become primarily wedding gowns within a decade.

By the 1990s, it was selling thousands of dresses a year after Schachter worked to transform the industry by encouraging designers with other specializations to put their creativity to work on wedding dresses and by searching the world for new trends and designs.

Also in the 1990s, the company changed ownership several times while continuing to capitalize on the Kleinfeld name. That reputation helped it to become the setting in 2007 for the reality show Say Yes to the Dress. The store had moved from Brooklyn to Manhattan only two years earlier.

The New York Times quoted Schachters son, Robert, as saying that her death resulted from an intestinal blockage.
California Bill Seeks to Prevent Prisons From Handing Illegal Immigrants to ICE

A condemned inmate is led out of his east block cell on death row at San Quentin State Prison, in San Quentin, Calif., in a file image. (Eric Risberg/AP Photo)

A new bill that would prevent prisons from turning over certain newly released undocumented immigrants to federal authorities for deportation passed the Assembly Public Safety Committee April 12.

Assembly Bill 1306also known as the Harmonizing Our Measures for Equality (HOME Act) and authored by lawmaker Wendy Carrillo (D-Los Angeles)will build off previous legislation that failed to pass last year.

The previous bill aimed to ban the transfer of all undocumented immigrants to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for potential deportation following the completion of a prison sentence.

However, the new bill only proposes safeguarding some from being transferred to federal authorities under specific circumstances, such as clemency from the governor.

Carrillo said during the committee hearing that the bill is fair for immigrants who have completed their time.

Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo, D-Los Angeles, speaks in the California State Assembly on March 28, 2023. (Screenshot via The Epoch Times)

Rather than be united with their family, our state prison system turns them over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement for double punishment and definite incarceration and immigration detention, which is a sentence that was never handed out by a criminal court or a judge, she said.

Organizations in support of the bill include the California Public Defenders Association, Legal Services for Prisoners with Children, Asian Americans Advancing Justice, and the California Attorneys for Criminal Justice.

No one came forward with opposing remarks during the meeting, but several law enforcement organizations opposed the now failed previous similar legislation in a joint statement in 2021, fearing that not deporting newly released undocumented immigrantsafter incarcerationcould lead to repeat offenses.

We are also not arguing that immigrants somehow pose any more threat than citizens or asking to involve immigration authorities in low-level offenses. However, there should be a point, in the most egregious cases, where we do not provide protections for dangerous persons from enforcement, read the statement signed by the Peace Officers Research Association of California, California Police Chiefs Association, California State Sheriffs Association, California District Attorneys Association, and others.

A Border Patrol agent detains and organizes a large group of illegal immigrants near Eagle Pass, Texas, on May 20, 2022. (Charlotte Cuthbertson/The Epoch Times)

Some exceptions for undocumented immigrants to avoid being transferred to ICE under AB 1306 include those: that fall under compassionate release or parole due to their age or severe medical conditions; who can prove their case was impacted by racial bias; who are eligible for resentencing because they were wrongly convicted of a felony murder charge; whose crimes were due to being victims of sexual assault and abuse; and eligible for early release because their crimes were committed in their youth.

Carrillo said the bill doesnt change anything regarding the sentencing of a suspect, but simply empowers the Department of Parole to say, We believe this individual is rehabilitated and has the opportunity to return home.

One example of such a case is Sandra Castanedawho received a 40-year sentence for driving while one of her passengers shot and killed a teenager from the vehicle.

She was given clemency by Gov. Gavin Newsom in 2021. But following her release, Castaneda was detained by ICE for more than a year due to her immigration status.

Getting handed over to ICE was a heartbreaking experience for me and my friends, she said during the committee hearing.

AB 1306 now heads to the Judiciary Committee for a vote, but the date is unclear.
California Cities Unite to Demand $3 Billion Yearly From Governor to Tackle Homelessness Crisis

Men emerge from their tents located in a homeless encampment in front of the Abbot Kinney Memorial Branch Library in Venice, Calif., on Feb. 18, 2022. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

The League of California Cities, which represents nearly 500 California cities, called for Gov. Gavin Newsom April 12 to allocate $3 billion annually for cities to use to combat homelessness.

The states affordable housing crisis and homelessness crisis is worsening by the minute, CEO of the league, Carolyn Coleman said during a press conference in Sacramento April 12, which included a number of city mayors. But without a dedicated ongoing stream, little progress can be made.

According to Coleman, funds will additionally go toward building more affordable housing across the state.

Cities cant solve this challenge alone, we need the state to be a strong partner with us, she said.

During the press conference, Santa Ana Mayor Valerie Amezcua said the funds can additionally be used to address mental health issues as well as other issues that are just as important plaguing homeless individuals.

A homeless encampment off Ross Street in Santa Ana, Calif., on May 10, 2021. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

San Luis Obispo Mayor Erica Stewart also stressed the need for continuous funding and that every single person deserves housing.

The cities alone are not going to be able to do this forever, she said. We want the state Legislature and the governor to act and provide permanent, long-term, stable, ongoing funding.

According to a recent survey from the league, 84 percent of cities have implemented programs to deal with homelessness, but 87 percent expressed fiscal concerns to keep the programs going long-term. Nearly 80 percent of cities, the survey found, also allocated money from their general fund to address the homeless as well.

The request, which the league first made in a December 2022 letter to the governor, comes as the state deals with a $22.5 billion budget shortfall for its fiscal year 20232024 and has spent $20 billion on homelessness in the last five years.

Currently, Newsoms grant program for cities dealing with homelessness stands at $1 billion. But the league argued that the governor has not distributed that money consistently.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom speaks during a press conference at The Unity Council in Oakland, Calif., on May 10, 2021. (Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

The leagues letter also said that the state must help with such costs that cities are taking on and if they are required to keep doing so will threaten the ability of local governments to fund essential services to communities.

In response to the leagues request, a spokesperson for Newsoms office told The Epoch Times in a statement that under the governors leadership it has increased homelessness funding from $500 million to over $20 billion, providing local governments with more financial support and resources than ever before to address the challenges of housing and homelessness and that such will result in improved outcomes on the issue.

Earlier this month, state officials agreed to audit Californias homeless spending to determine whether funds have been used effectively to address homelessness over the last three years.

Currently, there are 172,000 homeless people in the state.
California Has the Worst Homeownership Rate in the Country: Study

A "For Lease" sign is posted in front of a house available for rent in Los Angeles on March 15, 2022. (Mario Tama/Getty Images)

With a series of programs recently launched intending to boost home ownership in the state, a newly released study analyzing U.S. Census Bureau data shows California with the lowest rate in the nation.

When comparing owner-occupied housing units to the states populations, Ruby Home Luxury Real Estatea firm specializing in high-end properties in Southern Californiaconcluded April 7 that Californias homeownership rate of 18.35 percent ranks last, with Maines 32.71 percent leading the pack.

West Virginia and Vermont accompany Maine at the top of the scale, with the three separated by a fraction of a percentage point, according to the study emailed to The Epoch Times.

At the other end of the spectrum, Hawaii and New York rank as the second and third worst homeownership rates, respectively.

Its very interesting how among the states with the highest rate and those with the lowest rate, the values are very similar, Tony Mariotti, founder and CEO of Ruby Home, stated in the studys press release. This however cannot be said about the values at the two poles of the list, as Maine on one side and California on the other have a drastic gap between them.

A for sale sign is posted in front of a home on in San Anselmo, Calif., on March 22, 2023. (Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

Census Bureau data for 2022 shows 55.3 percent of homes are owned in California, slightly higher than the 53.9 percent in New York in 2022, with the two states ranking the lowest in the country. West Virginias 78.6 percent places it first, and Maine and Delaware tied for second with 74.9 percent.

These numbers differ from the recent study due to calculation methods. The formula utilized by Ruby Home takes the number of owner-occupied homes and divides by population, while the census numbers divide the number of owner-occupied homes by the number of occupied households.

In comparison to global homeownership rates, a Journal of Economic Perspectives study (pdf) released in 2018 found U.S. rates at the middle to low end of the range relative to other developed countries.

Experts suggest low ownership rates in California can be attributed to a higher cost of living and the highest median home price in the nation, with migration out of the state continuing to increase due to these economic difficulties.

The trend will continue, and California will continue to get smaller, Lee Ohanian, professor of economics at the University of CaliforniaLos Angeles, told The Epoch Times. Those in the middle-income categories will move because they make too much for assistance, but not enough to buy a home.

Census data shows household income averaged just over $84,000 in California as of 2021, with a national median of nearly $71,000.

Taking cost of living into account, California ranked second highest in overall poverty, with a rate of 15.4 percent as of 2022, according to Census Bureau figures. Only the District of Columbia scored worse, at 16.5 percent.

While a $15.50 minimum wage in the Golden State is significantly higher than the $7.25 federal limit, increased wages are not enough to cover the inflated cost of home prices and commodities, according to Ohanian.

Salaries are higher in the state on average than the rest of the country, but they dont come close to compensating the median worker for the additional cost of living, he said.

The median home sale price in California was over $744,000 in March 2023, down nearly 8 percent from the same time in 2022, according to Redfin, a Seattle-based residential real estate brokerage.

National median home sales price equated to $363,000 in February 2023, down 0.2 percent from the previous year, according to the most recently released data from the National Association of Realtors, a trade organization representing agents across the country and headquartered in Chicago, Illinois.

In efforts to boost Californias homeownership statistics, the Dream for All home loan programpassed in 2022proposes a $10 billion investment over 10 years to assist new home buyers with down payment loans in exchange for a share in the homes appreciation.

The state budget allocated $300 million for the program in 2023, with the amount depleted in less than 12 days due to high demand, according to the California Housing Agency.
Californias Dream for All Home Down Payment Program Ran Out of Money in 12 Days

An 'open house' flag is displayed outside a single family home in Los Angeles on Sept. 22, 2022. (Allison Dinner/Getty Images)

Demand for Californias new downpayment assistance program overwhelmed the system and depleted its $300 million budget in less than 12 days, with applications put on pause effective April 7, according to the housing finance agency.

The legislator responsible for proposing the program responded optimistically to the news.

It is incredible and inspiring to see that the launch of the California Dream for All program has already been so successful, Senate President Pro Tempore Toni Atkins (D-San Diego) said in a statement April 14. The fact that it has helped more than 2,400 first-time homebuyers with their down payments in its first two weeks is terrific.

Designed to provide up to 20 percent of funding for low-income first-time home buyers, the Dream for All program was initiated with the passage of Assembly Bill 140 in 2021.

Resources are provided through the Dream for All Shared Appreciation Loan, in which the state provides a portion of the down payment in exchange for a share in the property.

The loan, in addition to a portion of the appreciated value of the home, will be repaid when the property is resold, according to the legislation.

A sign is posted in front of new homes for sale at Hamilton Cottages in Novato, Calif., on Sept. 24, 2020. (Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

The lowest eligible income for the program is $159,000 for several counties throughout the state, with San Franciscans and Silicon Valley residents in Santa Clara and San Mateo residents eligible if they make $300,000, the highest. Los Angeless limit is $180,000, and Orange County has the highest income limit in Southern California, at $230,000.

The original text written in 2021 proposed funding the project with $1 billion annually for 10 years. The proposal suggested the $10 billion invested would assist more than 150,000 Californians.

After legislative wrangling, the proposed amount later dropped to $500 million in 2022 and with the state facing a $25 billion budget deficit for the next fiscal year starting in July, Newsom decreased the allocation to $300 million for its introduction in 2023.

The funding gap leaves the program stalled awaiting further resources, according to legislators.

While we are off to a strong start, we cant truly make a difference in opening the doors to building generational wealth for Californiansespecially those who historically have faced systemic barriers to homeownershipwithout sustained funding for the program, Atkins said in the statement.

Intended to provide relief to thousands of entry-level home buyers, all funds were reserved in less than two weeks after more than 2,000 applicants flooded the programs website.

Gold Award recipient Isabella Pena (L) of Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio joins a meeting with Speaker Emeritus Toni Atkins at the California State Capitol in Sacramento, Calif., on June 22, 2016. (Kelly Sullivan/Getty Images for Girl Scouts)

With the program designed to succeed only with appreciating home values, the state of the real estate market in California has some experts warning that declining prices will put taxpayers and the states investments at risk.

While prices rose steadily in many areas across the state from 20202022, sales volume has cratered since then, down double digits in most counties, and prices are retreating, according to recent sales records.

Another area of concern, according to real estate experts, is the proposal to package the loans as mortgage-backed securities. The plan is to sell the instruments and use the funding for more lending opportunities, but analysts warn that similar ideas contributed to the finance and mortgage lending crisis in 2008.

The day the application window closed for the program, the housing finance agency announced a new Forgivable Equity Builder Loan, granting up to 10 percent of the purchase price to first-time homeowners earning more than 20 percent less than the areas mean income. These funds do not have to be repaid if the buyers stay in the home for at least five years.
Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) leads the House Judiciary Committee to New York City to take a closer look at crime in the city and the district attorneys role in it. NTDs team in the Big Apple covers the heated hearing.

What are the factors behind the rise in violent crime? We hear from former Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell to discuss recent shootings.

The FBI revealed what it calls a dark secret at the heart of New York Cityhow the Chinese Communist Party uses an undercover location to interfere with American democracy.

House Republicans are proposing new actions on the federal debt limit. What did House Speaker Kevin McCarthy have to say in a speech on Wall Street?

Rep. Greg Murphy (R-N.C.) joins us to discuss the opioid crisis and forced organ harvesting in China, sharing his perspective as a physician.

President Joe Bidens judicial nominations are stalling because of Sen. Dianne Feinsteins absence. Republicans are now saying they wont go for Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumers attempt to replace the 89 year old on a key committee.
Elon Musk Changes CBCs Government-Funded Twitter Label to Show Portion of Funding

People walk toward the CBC building in Toronto in a file photo. (The Canadian Press/Nathan Denette)

The CBCs Twitter label has been changed to show a portion of its funding is provided by the government, after the public broadcaster complained about its government-funded media label.

Canadian Broadcasting Corp said theyre less than 70% government-funded, so we corrected the label, wrote Twitter-owner Elon Musk on the platform on April 17.

CBC is now labelled on Twitter as being 69% Government-funded Media. The change came after Musk engaged with several Twitter users on a post about CBC protesting against the government-funded label.

One user referenced a post by the CBC in 2017 that said federal funding only covers a portion of the broadcasters expenses.

Advertising helps us cover costs across all platforms, said the post, dated Sept. 12, 2017.

In response, Musk questioned if it would be more accurate to label the broadcaster as 70-percent government funded in response to the public broadcasters complaints about the label.

CBC announced on April 17 that it will temporarily halt its activity on Twitter in response to the new label.

Our journalism is impartial and independent. To suggest otherwise is untrue, it said.

Twitter says it applies the government-funded label to outlets that receive some or all of its funding from a government. The label also applies if an outlet has varying degrees of government involvement over editorial content.

The CBC said in its 2021-22 annual report that it received $1.24 billion in federal-government funding last year.

However, CBCs director of media relations Leon Mar told The Epoch Times on April 16 that the label is inaccurate because Twitters own policy defines government-funded media as cases where the government may have varying degrees of government involvement over editorial content,' which he said is clearly not the case with CBC/Radio-Canada.

Further Change

Shortly after changing CBCs label on Twitter to indicate 70-percent government-funding, Musk wrote that the CBCs concern has been addressed.

A user then said the label should be changed to indicate that CBC receives less than 70 percent of its funding from the federal government.

Good point, generosity is always the right move, Musk replied. 69% it is!

CBCs labelling as government-funded media comes shortly after Twitter applied similar labels to National Public Radio in the United States and the British Broadcasting Corporation in the UK.

In response to the CBC labelling, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau took aim at the Conservative Party and said its members are choosing to constantly attack independent media organizations.

Trudeau also said while speaking to reporters on April 17 that Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre runs to American billionaires to attack the CBC.

The prime minister was referring to calls from Poilievre for Twitter to label CBC as a government-funded outlet.

Once that happened on April 16, Poilievre wrote that CBC has been officially exposed as government-funded media.'

Now people know that it is Trudeau propaganda, not news, he wrote on Twitter.

Matthew Horwood and Omid Ghoreishi contributed to this report.
French-writer Honore de Balzac described the Chateau of Azay-le-Rideau as a faceted diamond set in the Indre. A gem among the numerous chateaux of the Loire Valley, it is also one of the earliest examples of French Renaissance architecture.

The primary structure was built between 1518 and 1528 by Gilles Berthelot, a financier of King Francis I. This exceptional site conveys all the charm of the early Renaissance, blending both French tradition and innovative Italian decor. It soon became representative of a new way of building structures in the Loire Valley, a favored place of residence for the French court.

Financiers of the crown such as Berthelot started to build magnificent homes to establish their social status, incorporating Italian architectural innovations (influenced by their military campaigns in Italy) with the French Renaissance style.

The Chateau of Azay-le-Rideau represents this transition, and the grand central staircase is a key element of this shift. It is decorated with Italian Renaissance features such as half columns, pillars, pilasters, carved shells, and a coffered vault featuring profile medallions. Another highlight is the buildings facade, with its turrets and sharply pointed roofs, reminiscent of the gothic style.

Unfortunately, Berthelot couldnt complete his project, as Francis I confiscated the chateau in 1535 after Berthelots exile. Some architects believe that Berthelot originally planned to add a wing to form a symmetrical U-shaped floor plan following Italian designs, instead of the current L-shaped floor plan.

In the 19th century, the Biencourt family restored the property in the Neo-Renaissance style. Today, the chateau is classified as a historical monument, and a recent restoration project restored it to its former glory, renovating both its exterior and interior with original Renaissance furnishings.

The northern facade of Azay-le-Rideau is the first to greet the eye upon arriving at the chateau. While the exterior looks like a typical French Renaissance castle with its limestone facade, turrets, and pointed roof, the grand staircase at the center of the building gives it an Italian flair. (Viacheslav Lopatin/Shutterstock)

The chateau is famous for its staircase, to the right of the main building. Although its architect is unknown, the grand staircase is the most innovative element of Azay-le-Rideau, demonstrating the importance of Italian influences in 16th-century France. Until then, French chateaux had spiral staircases, while this one is straight with banisters on either side. Other key elements of this monumental staircase include the open bay windows and carved portraits of kings and queens of France. (EQRoy/Shutterstock)

A close-up of the chateaus roof and its elaborate finishings. As with the rest of the chateaus architecture, the sculpted decorations combine both French and Italian traditions. Here, the pillars framing the window are finely ornate with vegetable scrolls, medallions, putti, and shells. (Kiev.Victor/Shutterstock)

The chateaus two-story limestone facade, made of local tuffeau stone, and its steep slate roof gives it a definite French appearance. Turrets were added in the 19th century by the Biencourt family to create the illusion of a completed Renaissance chateau, in the spirit of historicism. (Antoine2K/Shutterstock)

The stately apartments are richly decorated in the Neo-Renaissance style, a 19th-century architectural revival of the Renaissance period. Here, the Biencourt salon illustrates the taste of the chateaus past owners. The large fireplace is the centerpiece of this room, along with the wooden paneling. The walls are covered in leather-patterned wallpaper and portraits from the Renaissance, acquired by the Biencourt family in the spirit of authenticity. Overall, the luxurious yet comfortable atmosphere was faithfully reproduced, with original furniture from Mobilier National. (Viacheslav Lopatin/Shutterstock)

A closer look at the fireplace of the Biencourt salon. Built by Edmond Lechevallier-Chevignard in the 19th-century Neo-Renaissance style, it represents the work undertaken by the Biencourt family to give the chateau stylistic unity. The mantelpiece of the fireplace features a carved salamander, the symbol of Francis I, found throughout the chateau. (Viacheslav/Shutterstock)

Another highlight of the chateau: the bedroom of Philippe Lesbahy, the wife of Gilles Berthelot. The focal point of the bedroom is the elevated bed, recreated in the 19th-century Neo-Renaissance style. Purple damask curtains, silk velvet trimmings, embroideries, and elaborate woodwork illustrate the richness of Renaissance beds and the prestige of their owners. At the end of the bed, the trunk is in the Neo-Renaissance style. (Steve Allen/Shutterstock)
A passenger checks electronic timetables at a station in Stockholm, Sweden, April 18, 2023. More than 80 percent of the commuter trains scheduled for Monday evening's rush hour in the Swedish capital were canceled due to a strike by train drivers, local media reported. (Photo by Fang Ming/Xinhua)

STOCKHOLM, April 17 (Xinhua) -- More than 80 percent of the commuter trains scheduled for Monday evening's rush hour in the Swedish capital were canceled due to a strike by train drivers, local media reported.

Nearly 64 percent of the departures between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Monday were also canceled, Dagens Nyheter (DN) newspaper reported.

"Many of the train drivers who participated in Monday's strike did not inform us about their participation. (Instead), they simply did not appear for work. This makes it difficult to plan the schedule," Erik Soderberg, head of press at MTR which operates the commuter trains in Stockholm, told DN.

Spokespersons for the striking train drivers have told journalists that the strike would last for days and Soderberg said that it was impossible to say to what extent train traffic would be affected in the coming days.

Many of the train drivers have complained about the decision to remove conductors from the commuter trains, saying it would jeopardize safety as train drivers would have to monitor that all doors are clear before closing them.

Politicians in the Stockholm region, which is responsible for providing public transport in the county, have told local media that the new system is safe, whilst saving the region up to 150 million kronor (14.5 million U.S. dollars) annually. 

Passengers check electronic timetables at a station in Stockholm, Sweden, April 18, 2023. More than 80 percent of the commuter trains scheduled for Monday evening's rush hour in the Swedish capital were canceled due to a strike by train drivers, local media reported.(Photo by Fang Ming/Xinhua)
China Accelerating Nuclear Armament Without Any Transparency: NATO Chief

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg joins online the 18th annual NATO Conference on Arms Control, Disarmament, and Weapons of Mass Destruction Non-Proliferation in Washington on April 18, 2023. (Madalina Vasiliu/The Epoch Times)

Chinas communist regime is rapidly building its nuclear capabilities without any apparent regard for the safety of the world or itself, according to the North Atlantic Treaty Organizations (NATO) chief diplomat.

The regime isnt cooperating with international norms and laws regarding nuclear proliferation and wont be honest with the international community about the extent of its nuclear expansion, according to NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg.

China is rapidly growing its nuclear arsenal without any transparency about its capabilities, Stoltenberg said on April 18 at the 18th annual NATO Conference on Arms Control, Disarmament, and Weapons of Mass Destruction Non-Proliferation.

We should push back against efforts that risk undermining the existing nonproliferation framework, including the treaty on the provision of nuclear weapons.

CCP Seeks Nuclear Weapons at Worlds Expense

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP), which rules China as a single-party state, has long refused to participate in arms control talks. While that refusal was previously viewed with some annoyance by the international community, the regimes sudden push to create a world-leading nuclear arsenal has triggered widespread alarm.

Pentagon reports estimate that the regime will obtain 1,000 nuclear weapons by 2030 and 1,500 by 2035. Likewise, the regime now fields more launchers for land-based intercontinental ballistic missiles than the United States.

Stoltenberg said China is part of a broader movement of authoritarian nationsincluding Russia, Iran, and North Koreaseeking to destabilize the international community through nuclear proliferation.

To that end, NATO would need to push back against such threats while engaging with Beijing to bring it to the negotiating table, he said.

As a global power, China has global responsibilities. And Beijing, too, would benefit from the increased transparency, predictability, and security of arms control agreements, Stoltenberg said.

In the longer term, we need to rethink and adapt our approach to a more dangerous and competitive world. This means engaging with China.

Stoltenberg said NATO presented a unique vehicle for pursuing arms control and nonproliferation talks with the CCP and that such agreements would be of mutual benefit to both China and NATO.

He underscored that the alliances Strategic Concept didnt view China as an enemy, although he recognized that China offers some challenges to our interests, our NATO values, and our security.

By engaging, building trust, and altering behaviors to increase the mutual safety of China and NATO alike, the powers could forge a different approach for an era characterized by increased instability and unpredictable new technologies, according to Stoltenberg.

He admitted that such a mission was a tall order but said that if NATO and the Warsaw Pact countries could pursue arms control at the height of the Cold War, NATO and China could do the same now.

Our world is more dangerous and less predictable than it has been for generations, Stoltenberg said. The arms control regimes that we have depended on for so long are unraveling.

But we need to remember, arms control agreements are not made between friends. They are made between adversaries.

New Technologies Increase Risk of Nuclear Catastrophe

New technologies, including artificial intelligence, further magnify the threat posed by the CCP, according to U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman at the same event.

While nuclear weapons have been around for 80 years, the decreasing timeframes for decision-making and the risk of automation triggering a catastrophic response increase the danger of such weapons, she said.

For all the wonders wrought by rapid advances in innovation and invention, for all the excitement brought by developments we cannot fathom or predict or imagine yet, in the realm of arms control, those leaps forward bring a new degree of fear and uncertainty along with promise, Sherman said.

With that in mind, she said the United States does not seek conflict but is weary of Beijings ambition to undermine and displace the greater international order.

[China], as the United States has said, is the only country with the capability to change the rules-based international order, which we believe [CCP leader] Xi Jinping intends to do, Sherman said.

Even in this era, when progress seems distant, we can never resort to inaction. Even in this moment, when technology raises more questions than it seems to answer, we can never abandon our work toward advanced arms control measures. We can never shrink from the challenge of nonproliferation.
Chinese Lab Developed COVID-19 Virus, Senate Report Claims

Unintentional leaks happened twice in COVID-19, researchers say

An aerial view shows the P4 laboratory at the Wuhan Institute of Virology in Wuhan in China's central Hubei Province on April 17, 2020. (Hector Retamal/AFP via Getty Images)

WASHINGTONThe COVID-19 virus originated in a Chinese laboratory and was leaked unintentionally, a new U.S. Senate report concludes.

The virus, SARS-CoV-2, leaked from the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV), which tests bat coronaviruses, twice in 2019, researchers conducting the report say.

The preponderance of information supports the plausibility of an unintentional research-related incident that likely resulted from failures of biosafety containment during SARS-CoV-2 vaccine-related research, the 301-page report, released on April 17, states.

Sen. Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), a member of the Senate Health Committee, released the report, which was produced by a team that included Dr. Robert Kadlec, a longtime former government health official who played a key role in developing the COVID-19 vaccines, and staffers on the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, where Marshall chairs the Subcommittee on Primary Health and Retirement Security. The final report updates an interim report released in the fall of 2022.

Researchers started with two hypotheses, Marshall told reporters in a briefing. One was that the virus started in animals before spilling over to humans, known as a natural origin. The other was a leak from the Wuhan lab, located in the same city where the first COVID-19 cases were detected in late 2019.

They exhausted every piece of evidence that they could find, every resource witness that they could talk to, to come up with conclusions, Marshall said.

Kadlecs team of consultants spent approximately 18 months probing the COVID-19 origins and concluded that the available evidence supports a lab leak.

More specifically, there was likely an aerosol leak that caused an infection of lab personnel or the virus may have been released to the outside environment due to biocontainment failures. One theory revolves around cleaning agents causing corrosion of welded seams in the lab, a possibility mentioned in multiple 2019 documents on upgrading the lab.

Patents addressed biocontainment faults with animal transfer cabinets, biosafety autoclaves, leaky airtight doors, and excessive corrosive disinfectants affecting stainless steel laboratory equipment and biocontainment structures, the report states.

Both domestic and foreign bodies have for years raised concerns about biosafety at the WIV. A 2018 U.S. State Department cable, for instance, (pdf) reported that the then-newly opened biosafety level four lab at the facility had a serious shortage of trained technicians to safely operate the lab.

Researchers at the lab, before the pandemic, reported experimenting on mice, bats, and palm civets to find coronaviruses that were more capable of infecting humans, and sometimes experimented at sub-biosafety level four conditions. A more recent summary showed scientists conducted experiments that increased the function of a bat coronavirus. WIVs refusal to reveal the full results of their experiments resulted in U.S. officials ending a subgrant after the pandemic started.

Research-related lab biosafety issues can unfold in a number of ways, while most infections acquired in laboratories due to lapses are never conclusively determined, researchers have said previously.

Chinese reports, communications, and notices were offered as support for the lab leak theory, including an attempt in November 2019 to procure an air incinerator at the lab. That suggested some concern about the risk of an infectious aerosol escape, researchers say in the new report. They also noted that WIV staffers underwent a remedial biosafety training course that same month.

Characteristics of SARS-CoV-2 suggest the virus was manmade, including the presence of a furin cleavage site at the same location that was proposed in a grant proposal by EcoHealth Alliance, the report concludes. EcoHealth funneled U.S. taxpayer money to scientists in Wuhan.

Sen. Roger Marshall gives a briefing in Washington on April 16, 2023. (Zachary Stieber/The Epoch Times)

Two Leaks

More than one lab leak may have occurred, according to the report.

Data from infections in Wuhan early in the pandemic indicate that there were different epidemiological patterns there, Chinese researchers have said. The early strains of COVID-19 had differences, including different numbers of mutations, suggesting that two lineages of the same virus may have emerged simultaneously and progressed on different paths or sequentially separated by some period of time, the report says.

According to declassified U.S. government intelligence reports and Chinese news stories, the first cases in foreign visitors to China were recorded in November 2019. Modeling has indicated the outbreak began in October or November 2019. Chinese officials took actions even earlier in 2019, such as holding a drill said to simulate the discovery of an airline passenger with coronavirus, on Sept. 18, 2019, and shortly after beginning to stockpile tests.

Kadlec and the other U.S. researchers say one leak may have happened before September 2019, spurring the actions. Then, a second leak took place in late 2019, they posit, just before Chinese researchers likely started developing a COVID-19 vaccine that was tested starting in February 2020.

Marshall acknowledged that there could have just been one leak but said other evidence supports the two leak theory, including how genomic data from WIV was taken offline in the fall of 2019, around the same time foreign athletes who went to Wuhan for military Olympics became ill with symptoms that are caused by COVID-19.

The senator lamented the difficulty the team encountered obtaining evidence from U.S. government agencies such as the State Department.

Another likely lab leak seems to be the most sensible explanation in this retrospective review, he said. Theres key data points that are being held back that could help us prove that, but we cant get that data.

Chinese officials, meanwhile, have continued their pattern of censoring key data.

Many of the evidentiary gaps in the worlds understanding of the emergence of SARS are the result of PRC censorship and the deliberate destruction and withholding of evidence, the researchers said in the report, using the acronym for the regimes official name, the Peoples Republic of China.

Released?

The report says the available evidence points to a lab leak rather than an intentional incident.

While the Wuhan laboratory regularly had contact with top Chinese Communist Party officials, there are no signs that the virus was released intentionally, Marshall contends.

I think that theres some people out there that are assuming the worst, and theres just no evidence to support that it was intentional, Marshall said. All the evidence says its unintentional.

Was there a cover-up? Yes, he added.

Marshall said he assumes the testing of infectious viruses done at the lab was being done so China could create its own vaccines against the viruses.

Natural Origin

None of the available evidence supports the natural origin theory, the report concludes. That includes no evidence of any animals being infected with SARS-CoV-2 before the first human cases.

The natural origin theory is still popular with some virologists, including many who convened early in the pandemic to produce the papers that described the lab theory as improbable and a conspiracy theory.

An early version of one of the papers did note that research involving bat coronaviruses had been happening in biosafety level two labs for years and we must therefore consider the possibility of a deliberate or inadvertent release of SARS-CoV-2.

Some of the scientists reported in a preprint study that newly released Chinese data showed some animals were present at a Wuhan wet market in 2019, including species that have since tested positive elsewhere for COVID-19. The scientists said the findings supported the natural origin theory, which typically posits the market as the starting point of a spillover.

Chinese scientists, reporting on the same data, noted that it did not show any virus detected on swabs from animals at the market. They said the findings supported a so-called superspreader event at the market, with high levels of spread among humans, but that the origins of COVID-19 remain to be determined.

Correction: A previous version of this article listed the wrong state for Sen. Marshall. It is Kansas. The Epoch Times regrets the error.
Chinese Spies Gave Envelopes of Cash to Aussie Businessman In Return for State Secrets: Court Hearing

Bernard Collaery, barrister for Alexander Csergo, speaks to media outside the Downing Centre Local Court in Sydney, on April 17, 2023. Alexander Csergo, 55, is set to face court charged with reckless foreign interference. (AAP Image/Bianca De Marchi)

Alexander Csergo, who is charged and facing trial for foreign interference, allegedly received cash in envelopes in return for sensitive information on national security, an Australian court has heard.

The prosecution alleges Csergo, 55, returned to Australia earlier this year with a shopping list of information to gather for the Chinese state.

The businessperson is accused of compiling and selling details on the AUKUS pact (with the U.S. and UK), the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, lithium mining, and iron ore mining activities to two spies named Ken and Evelyn.

The two Chinese spies are alleged to work for a foreign spy agency and carried out intelligence collection.

According to reports, Prosecutor Connor McCraith told the courts that Csergo, by his own admission, suspected the pair of being spies soon after their initial meeting in China in early 2021. However, he proceeded to remain in contact with them, exchanging thousands of messages in the process.

He clearly has links to the Chinese state and two people he clearly thinks work for the MSS [Ministry of State Security], McCraith said.

He also travelled back to Australia with a shopping list.

The list was found by the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) three weeks after Csergo returned to Australia earlier this year.

McCraith said rather than alerting Australian authorities like a reasonable person would have done, Csergo maintained his relationship with the spies and invited Ken to visit Australia.

In other words, he invited someone he believed to be a spy to come to Australia, the prosecutor said.

Csergo was refused bail because he was declared a flight risk. Further, Magistrate Michael Barko ruled that keeping Csergo in confinement was also for his personal safety from the Chinese Communist Party.

A supplied image obtained on April 14, 2023, of an Australian man who has been arrested in Bondi and charged with one count of one count of Reckless Foreign Interference. (AAP Image/Supplied by AFP)

Sinister Behaviour

Csergos defence lawyer, Bernard Collaery, argued that the information and documents his client compiled and sold were largely from open-source documents.

He told the court that during the investigation, ASIO and the Australian Federal Police had gone right through his laptop and WeChat messages and the gathered information was from publicly available material.

Collaery said the work he carried out was not sinister and that Csergo was an experienced, successful businessman who understood that in China all roads lead to the state.

They were a source of income. Cash payments for consulting reports might have a colour to it in Australian terms; it might well be the way business is done in China. Its not necessarily, on my submission, sinister, he told the court.

However, the magistrate disagreed saying if a regular person were to hear about Csergos activities they would find it suspicious.

Eric Abetz, former Liberal Senator, said the case, irrespective of its outcome, served as a reminder to all Australians that their obligation to their fellow citizens should always be paramount.

In an era where there has been far too much pandering and deliberate turning of a blind eye to Beijings communist dictatorship and its threats to peace for short-term financial benefits  we need a robust and reliable alliance with like-mindedness to ensure each others security, he wrote to The Epoch Times.

A Serious Threat to Australias Sovereignty: AFP Chief

Csergo, who normally lives and runs his business overseas, only just returned to Australia from China before he was arrested.

He had sold intelligence during the Shanghai COVID lockdowns for extra personal funds.

The Australian businessman is the second individual to be charged with an offence by the Counter Foreign Interference Taskforce since the country passed the National Security Legislation Amendment (Espionage and Foreign Interference) Bill in 2018.

Espionage and foreign interference pose a serious threat to Australias sovereignty, security and integrity of our national institutions, Australian Federal Police (AFP) Assistant Commissioner Krissy Barrett told reporters.

The Counter Foreign Interference Taskforce, which includes ASIO and the AFP, is working to disrupt the threat and mitigate the harm from foreign interference and espionage.

The AFP alleges other Australian citizens and residents may have also been approached by Ken and Evelyn and is urging those individuals to provide information to the national security hotline.

The 2019-20 annual report revealed that the Prime Ministers Office and Home Affairs Department together committed $87.8 million (US$58.8 million) to the Counter Foreign Interference Taskforce to enhance Australias operational and investigative capacity to disrupt and deter acts of foreign interference and espionage.

Lis Wang contributed to this report.
Chris Christie Says He Will Decide His Presidential Candidacy in Next Couple Weeks

Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie looks on prior to a game between the Indianapolis Colts and the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on Dec. 4, 2022. (Richard Rodriguez/Getty Images)

Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie has not decided on another run for president yet, but he is testing the waters.

In an April 18 interview with Semafor editor-at-large Steve Clemons, the 2016 Republican presidential candidate revealed that he will make a decision on a potential campaign in the next couple weeks.

RNC [Republican National Committee] is setting up some rules for the debates that are going to require certain milestones to be met by mid-August to qualify for the stage, Christie noted.

Theyre talking about requiring 40,000 individual donors to qualify for the stage, so, you know, that takes a little time to do. And so, if youre going to be serious about thisand I think you have to be on the stage to be serious about itthen you probably have to make a decision by May.

To date, five Republicans have declared their candidacy for the 2024 GOP presidential nomination, including former President Donald Trump, former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, and businessman Perry Johnson.

Meanwhile, Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina recently announced an exploratory committee, and speculation that Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis will enter the race continues to mount.

Christie, however, appeared undeterred by the expanding field of competition, noting that he had faced worse.

This looks like a vacant field compared to what I dealt with in 2016, he said. In 2016, we had 17 candidates for the Republican nomination, and we had to have two separate debates because there were so many people. And even with the debates that I was in, there were 10 of us. It was a lot.

A Shift in Perspective

In February 2016, Christie dropped out of the presidential race after a disappointing New Hampshire primary in which he finished sixth.

Two weeks later, he became the first establishment Republican to endorse then-candidate Donald Trump, whom he said had been a good and loyal friend to him for more than a decade.

Yet in recounting the story on April 18, he gave the impression that he supported Trump because he did not want to see a Hillary Clinton presidency.

When anybodys ever critical of my support of Donald Trump, I tell them, Well, I made the decision that I didnt want Hillary Clinton to be president of the United States, he said.

You can agree or disagree with that, but my only two choices were those two.

And let me say this, its not like I supported him from the beginningI ran against him. I didnt think he was the best choice for president. I thought I was, but that didnt work out, so then were left with a choice. And I think the American people were disgruntled with that choice.

While at one point, Christie counted himself among the 45th presidents supporters, according to the former governor, that support ended after the 2020 election.

The morning after the election, after the president was done giving his speech where he said the election was stolen  I said, That is beneath the office that he has held. You cannot stand up there and say the election was stolen when you have absolutely no facts to support it, and I cannot be supportive of this.

Describing Trumps assertions that the election was stolen as lies, Christie added, To me, thats where the line was crossed.

Competition

Currently, Trump leads the Republican pack by a wide margin that has only grown wider since his recent indictment by a Manhattan grand jury on falsification of business records charges.

That case, brought by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, allegedly relates to hush money payments made during the 2016 election cycle to women who claimed to have engaged in extramarital affairs with Trump, including adult film actress Stormy Daniels.

Weighing in on the matter on April 16, Christie, a former prosecutor, said: As a prosecutor, I wouldnt have brought the prosecution Alvin Bragg brought because I dont think hes going to win it and I dont think its worthy of the challenges that are before him.

But at the same time, you have someone who has had an affair with a porn star, paid her off $130,000 to cover it up.

To keep that information from the American people while hes seeking the highest office in the land, thats not the character of somebody who I think should be president of the United States.

Christie also said that he did not believe Trump was a conservative, noting: Does he have some conservative positions? Sure. But Ive known Donald Trump for 22 years.

Ive known him when I was a U.S. attorney, and he asked me what my position was on abortion. I told him I was pro-life, [and he said], Oh, for Gods sake, Chris, youre not going to be able to win being pro-life. Stay out of that issue. Dont get involved in it.

This is now the guy who is extraordinarily pro-life as president and now seems to be unwilling to tell us what his view is about a number of these various abortion bills that are happening.

Christie also raised the same concern about DeSantiscurrently the second most popular candidate for the Republican nominationover his recent spat with Disney.

Im a conservative, he said. And I believe as a conservative, the job of government is, in the main, to stay out of the business of business.

I dont think we should be heavily regulating business. I dont think we should be telling business what to do, what to say, how to think, and I believe thats what conservatives have believed for as long as Ive been alive.

I dont think Ron DeSantis is a conservative, based on his actions towards Disney.

Readiness to Run

As for his ability to take on the Republican frontrunners, Christie said the voters would have to wait and see.

If I decide to get in [the race], I think everybody whos watched me publicly over the last 13 years knows that I wont be a wallflower, he said.

And I think youve seen that this morning. If Ive got something to say, Im going to say it. And so, if it turns out that Im on a debate stage in August of this year and Donald Trump decides to be on it, you can be sure that well have some exchanges that I hope will be illuminating to the public about both him and me.

And while the former governor is still weighing his options, he noted that he does not take the decision to run lightly.

If I concluded, at the end of this period of consideration that I couldnt win, I wouldnt run, he said.

I dont want to run for president again for the experience. I already had the experience, and it was a lot of fun at some moments, not so much at others, but I wouldnt do that.

Look, at the end of the day, politics is a human activity, and because of that, its dynamic, he added. And I dont know which way thatll work, but what I can tell you for sure is that, if I get into the race, Ill make it interesting.
Conservative Alternative to Amazon Growing Exponentially as Customers Ditch Woke Companies, Says PublicSq CEO

Boxes ready to be delivered during Cyber Monday at the Amazon fulfilment center in Robbinsville Township, N.J., on Nov. 28, 2022. (Eduardo Munoz/Reuters)

PublicSq, the conservative Amazon alternative that promises to connect freedom-loving Americans with businesses that align with their values, has been gaining traction among consumers seeking an alternative to the Jeff Bezos-owned online retailer, according to its CEO.

It has grown exponentially, the San Diego-based companys CEO and founder Michael Seifert told Fox News on April 17.

The nation was hungry for this. We are addressing the largest unaddressed market in the world, which is patriotic, traditionally valued, constitution-loving America, Seifert continued, adding that he considers himself part of this market.

Seifert said he felt like major corporate entities in the United States have for years turned against his own values, pointing to Nike, Starbucks, Target, and, most recently, Bud Light, whose parent company Anheuser-Busch lost up to $6.5 billion in stock value after partnering with transgender social media influencer Dylan Mulvaney, a biological male.

The move also led to customers boycotting the branda move that Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and Mike Crispi, the former Republican New Jersey primary candidate for Congress, have backed.

There are so many entities that, for whatever reason, decided to cater to messaging that only attracts 10 percent of the country when theres a massive cohort of 100-plus million Americans feeling like their values have been left in the dust, Seifert said.

Customers Ditching Woke

He added that PublicSqs core values speak to the fundamental principles that made this country so special in the first place and that customers using the platform wont be lectured on politics or gender ideology, as is the case with many companies that have become increasingly woke or moved to embrace environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investment strategies in recent years

PublicSq launched as an app in October 2021, before going nationwide 10 months ago. In February, the online marketplace announced it was merging with shell company Colombier Acquisition Corp. to go public at the end of the third quarter.

PublicSqs board of directors includes Siefert; Blake Master, Arizonas GOP nominee for U.S. Senate in 2022 and entrepreneur and investor; Nick Ayers, a leading public policy and business strategist; and Omeed Malik, founder and CEO of boutique investment bank Farvahar Partners.

According to its official website, the alternative online marketplace is Pro-Life, Pro-Family, Pro-Freedom, while a February press release stated that the company has more than 450,000 active members and more than 40,000 businesses on its platform from multiple industries.

While speaking to Fox earlier in March, Seifert said the fact that PublicSq exists highlights the reality that corporate America has lost sight and touch with what the American people are looking for.

Bud Parent Company Addresses Transgender Backlash

Seiferts comments come as Anheuser-Busch attempts to move on following the recent backlash surrounding its advertisement campaign with Mulvaney.

Last week, the company released a new patriotic Budweiser advert featuring its signature Clydesdale horse mascot, the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., and the Grand Canyon in Arizona, as well as people raising an American flag.

During the one-minute advertisement, a narrator declares: This is a story bigger than beer. This is the story of the American spirit.

Elsewhere, the brewing companys CEO, Brendan Whitworth, issued a statement on Friday that it never intended to be a part of a discussion that divides people.

We are in the business of bringing people together over a beer, Whitworth said. I am responsible for ensuring every consumer feels proud of the beer we brew. My time serving this country taught me the importance of accountability and the values upon which America was founded: freedom, hard work, and respect for one another.

While the CEO stopped short of issuing an apology to its long-time customers who were angered by the partnership, Whitworth said he was focused on building and protecting the companys long history and heritage and vowed to continue to work tirelessly to bring great beers to consumers across our nation.
Convicted Serial Rapist Sentenced to More Than 150 Years

INDIANAPOLISAn Indiana judge has sentenced a convicted serial rapist to more than 150 years in prison, authorities said Monday.

Darrell Goodlow was charged in 2021 with 57 counts, including rape, burglary, and criminal confinement. He pleaded guilty in March to nine counts, including eight felony counts of rape and one felony count of killing a domestic animal, as part of a plea agreement.

Marion Superior Judge Mark Stoner sentenced him to 156.5 years behind bars on Friday, prosecutors said in a news release.

With this resolution, the defendant will spend the rest of his life in prison without putting the survivors in a position to relive the trauma they have experienced throughout the duration of a trial, Marion County Prosecutor Ryan Mears said.

Telephone messages were left with defense attorneys listed in online court records as representing Goodlow.

Prosecutors alleged that Goodlow targeted women in their 60s and 70s on the east side of Indianapolis and in the suburb of Lawrence. They accused Goodlow of sexually assaulting eight women on six different occasions between August 2020 and September 2021.

In some cases, he dressed as a utility worker to gain access to his victims homes. He killed one of his victims dogs during one attack, police said.

A fingerprint at one of the scenes helped investigators identify him. They also matched his DNA to evidence collected in all eight cases.
Costa Mesa Republican and Iranian Activist Runs for California Assembly

Henny Abraham launched her campaign for California Assembly District 73 in the 2024 Primary Election to represent Irvine, Costa Mesa, and Tustin. (Courtesy of Henny Abraham)

Hengameh Henny Abraham is running for Assembly District 73 in the 2024 Primary Election to represent Irvine, Costa Mesa, and Tustin.

Abraham, 36, was the campaign manager for former Republican Assemblyman Steven Choi, who lost the seat last year to Democrat incumbent Cottie Petrie-Norris.

Over the past several months, Abraham has formed a group of dozens of local Iranians to hold a series of rallies, calling on their city officials to pass resolutions condemning the Iranian regimes human rights violations.

The groupmade up mostly of Democrats, Abraham saidbegan organizing following the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini last September, who was allegedly detained by the so-called Islamic morality police in Tehran for showing a few strands of her haira dress code violation in the countryand died in police custody.

Its extremely heartbreaking, Abraham told The Epoch Times. Here we are in 2023 and women are still being treated like second-class citizens [in Iran].

Since then, hundreds have protested on several occasions and 16 of 34 city councils in Orange County have passed resolutions condemning the regime, including the three cities in Assembly District 73, she said.

Weve been getting very positive feedback from that, she said. Its just going to be me representing them on a larger scale once I get to Sacramento.

Abraham was born and raised in Iran and moved to Orange County with her family at age 14. She attended Mission Viejo High School and earned her bachelors from California State UniversityFullerton. In 2018, she moved to Costa Mesa with her husband.

She co-owns a holistic health and wellness business, is the co-founder and chairwoman of the Greater Costa Mesa Republicans, and is the Iranian American Engagement Director for the Orange County Republican Party.

Abraham, who is an advocate for school choicewhich allows parents to send their children to a charter, private, or home school unbound by their zip codeteaches 2nd grade at the Costa Mesa charter homeschool Free Society Academy, where one of her two sons attends.

She ran unsuccessfully for Costa Mesa City Council in 2020, losing to Jeffrey Harlan by 20 percentage points.

If elected to the Assembly, Abraham said she would work to reduce taxes, starting with the gas tax, of which California has the highest in the country.

We need to stop taxing our constituents and the citizens of California to the point that most of their income or earnings  is going to taxes, she said.

She would also focus on reforming the K12 education system, of which she said is too heavily influenced by the teachers unions.

Out of the 50 states, we are number 40 as far as quality of education goes and were number 48 as far as safety in our schools, she said.

Also, if elected, Abraham said she would work to rebuild small businesses that have suffered financial hardship during the pandemic.

Theyre the backbone of the economy of our state and our country and a lot of them have left since COVID, she said. Building our small businesses and making sure that they are able to preserve themselves instead of just leaving the state [is my priority].

She also stressed the lack of Republican representation in Sacramento, citing the 62 Democrats and 18 Republicans in the state Assembly.

They cant get anything done because they never have the vote and the supermajority gets whatever they want through the Assembly, she said.

Abraham said being a Republican, to her, means a small government, lower taxes, and above all elsefreedom.

As a woman, I know what it means for me to live in a free country where I get to do what I want, she said. You have a system that allows you to vote. Theres democracy. And I grew up the first 14 years of my life seeing [the opposite].
De Blasio Argues MAGA Extremism Will Be Floridas Achilles Heel

During a debate that pitted Florida against New York, former New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio claimed that MAGA extremism will ultimately undermine the Sunshine State, even as it attracts tens of thousands of former New Yorkers.

The Democrat predicted many skilled Floridians would leave the state due to policies such as a newly passed six-week abortion ban.

New Yorkers, by contrast, feel safe from extremism and feel safe from intolerance, according to de Blasio, who was succeeded as mayor by Eric Adams in 2022.

He argued that his home city remains an unmatched place for opportunity despite what he characterized as overly restrictive immigration laws.

New York, a self-described sanctuary city, limits cooperation between local law enforcement and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Activists march against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Trump administrations immigration policies, outside the ICE offices in Federal Plaza in New York City on June 29, 2018. (Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

The debate titled Is Florida Eating New Yorks Lunch? was organized by Intelligence Squared and will air on public radio May 5.

The former two-term mayor, now teaching a course at New York University, squared off against Reihan Salam, president of the conservative Manhattan Institute, and himself the son of Bangladeshi immigrants.

Salam presented the viewpoint that Florida is beating New York, while de Blasio took the opposing view.

Salam never seriously challenged de Blasios culture war broadsides, which the politician did not fail to miss.

The Manhattan Institute president did note that New York State had been bleeding population at least since 2010 even as Floridas population surpassed that of the Empire State in 2013. New York, he pointed out, had not become less tolerant during that period, suggesting other factors were at play.

Salam zeroed in on school test scores, public disorder, and, in particular, housing costs. He argued that those factors worked to the disadvantage of New York, driving away the working and middle class even as millionaires proliferated.

Were really losing strivers, Salam declared.

He claimed that the citys density, which makes it commercially and culturally vibrant, leaves it vulnerable to even small increases in crime, noise, and congestion. Unlike tightly packed New Yorkers, Floridians can just hop in their SUVs to get away from certain nuisances, he said.

The Don Cesar Hotel at St. Pete Beach, on Floridas Gulf Coast, is one of the many historic pink hotels across the state. Many hotels built in the first part of the 20th century were painted pink, a color thought to symbolize tranquility and warmth,. (Courtesy of Visit St. Pete-Clearwater/TNS)

De Blasio, born Warren Wilhelm, Jr., began by telling the story of his maternal grandparents, who came to Gotham from southern Italy, and whose name he adopted in 2002.

He said he respected Florida and was not here to be negative to another state. That assertion, however, appeared to contradict his repeated references to MAGA extremism.

Salam, for his part, repeatedly stressed his own love of New York City, saying he personally wouldnt choose to live in Florida.

De Blasio asserted that the citys improved tourist numbers since the end of COVID showed that it was gaining new strength.

He argued that even its high housing prices signaled the citys essential vitality: The rents are high because people want to be here.

A view of the Manhattan skyline from the viewing deck at One Vanderbilt in New York City on Jan. 16, 2023. (Ed Jones/AFP via Getty Images)

Moderator John Donvan pointed out that the debaters were conflating New York City and New York State.

On Salams telling, that strengthened the case that Florida is indeed eating New Yorks lunch.

The conservative commentator argued that Upstate New York had lost out because of policies that are more to New York Citys liking. He also blamed unaffordable housing in and beyond the city, also citing suburban sprawl and long, tiresome commutes from places like the Lehigh Valley in Pennsylvania.

Do some people end up going to suburbs? Sure, de Blasio said, adding that New York is far from the only place in America where sprawl is a problem.

He argued that Floridas conservative politics would ultimately make immigrants feel unwelcome.

De Blasio disagreed with Salams assertion that New Yorkers high taxes deliver relatively poor services.

According to de Blasio, Salam had offended the citys workforce.

The former mayor also took issue with Salams emphasis on school test scores, saying they were not the only way to assess educational performance.
Democratic Rep. Dan Kildee Wont Be Present for House Votes After Undergoing Cancer Surgery

Rep. Dan Kildee (D-Mich.) remains in hospital and will miss out on various votes in the U.S. House of Representatives after undergoing surgery to remove a cancerous tumor in his tonsil, his office said in a statement on April 17.

This afternoon, the Congressman had a surgery to remove a small cancerous tumor found in his tonsil, Kildees chief of staff, Mitchell Rivard, said.

He is expected to remain at George Washington University Hospital for the next several days as a part of the normal recovery process. Later in the week, the Congressman is expected to continue his recovery at home, the statement added.

Kildee, 64, announced on March 31 that he had been diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma following a preventive scan that prompted additional tests.

At the time, the Democratic congressman said he planned to have surgery to remove the cancer, adding that the prognosis after surgery and treatment is excellent.

In Mondays statement, Kildees chief of staff said the congressman is thankful to have caught his cancer diagnosis early and appreciates the care of his great team of doctors.

Kildee was first elected to Congress in 2012 and represents Michigans 8th Congressional District. He is co-chair of the Democratic Steering and Policy Committee.

Due to his surgery and the time needed to recover, Kildee will not be present for various votes in the U.S. House of Representatives but will instead submit written statements for the record to the House Clerk for any missed recorded votes to keep his constituents updated on his positions, his office said.

The Congressmans district office and Washington, D.C. office remain open and able to assist constituents, the statement continued. The Congressman, his wife Jennifer, and the Kildee family have been touched by all the kind notes and well wishes since his diagnosis. The Congressman thanks his constituents and colleagues in Congress for their continued support.

Cancer Diagnosis Never Easy to Hear

Speaking about his diagnosis in March, Kildee acknowledged that Its never easy to hear the words you have cancer but said he knows so many other families that have gone through a cancer diagnosis and is adamant he will beat it.

Kildees surgery to remove the cancerous tumor comes after fellow Rep. Joaquin Castro (D-Texas) revealed in March that he had undergone successful surgery at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston to remove gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumors.

My prognosis is good. I expect to be home recovering in Texas for several weeks before returning to Washington to continue my work, the congressman, 48, said in a statement.

In February, Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) also gave an update on his cancer treatment after sharing in December that he had been diagnosed with diffuse large B cell lymphoma, a serious but curable form of cancer.

Raskin said he was midway through his treatment, having undergone three of six rounds of chemotherapy, before thanking his supporters for their kind words and gifts.

So I just wanted to say thank you to the team at PCCC and to all of you guys out there from Alaska to Florida, Hawaii to Maine, Raskin said. Ive got my own constitutional preamble bandana. Ive got flag hats. Ive got peoples own chemo hats that worked for them, from a place called Alexs Lemonade Stand. I got some bandanas. So my cup runneth over. And of course, a bunch of people sent me my own true blue Democrat mask.

Correction: A previous version of this article incorrectly identified the type of cancer Kildee has. The Epoch Times regrets the error.
Democrats Are Trying to Cancel Sen. Feinstein, GOPs Jordan Says

Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) leaves the Senate Democrats weekly policy lunch at the U.S. Capitol in Washington on July 20, 2021. (Elizabeth Frantz/Reuters)

Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) warns Democrats that their party appears to be attempting to cancel Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.).

Jordan made his comments during an April 17 episode of Fox & Friends, where he fielded questions about the ailing senators participation in the upper chamber of Congress.

Feinstein, 89, was diagnosed with shingles in late February and has been absent from the Senate ever since. The California senator asked Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) to temporarily replace her on the Judiciary Committee while she recovers from her illness in an April 12 statement. She has thus far refused to quit her position in the Senate.

Even one of Feinsteins Democrat colleagues, Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), has called for the aging politician to resign: She hasnt been showing up, and she has no intention. We dont know if she is even gonna show up. She has no return date, Khanna said on Fox News Sunday.

Only in Washington would you get criticized for saying something so obvious, Khanna said. I have a lot of respect for Senator Feinstein, but she has missed 75 percent of votes this year. She hasnt been showing up  we dont know if she is going to show up. No return date.

Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) speaks during a news conference to discuss legislation that would temporarily halt U.S. arms sales to Saudi Arabia at the U.S. Capitol in Washington on Oct. 12, 2022. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

A Democrat Issue

When asked to respond to those comments, Jordan said it Sounds like the Democrats are trying to cancel Senator Feinstein. The lawmaker recalled a time when Feinsteins name was taken from an elementary school over something she said several decades ago.

Now, trying to kick her out of the Senate? I understand she hasnt been there much, Jordan said before commenting that this is a Democrat issue and the fact that the party is trying to cancel her should be the main takeaway for Democrats.

Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio), Chair of the House Judiciary Committee, attends the committees Victims of Violent Crime in Manhattan field hearing at Jacob K. Javits Federal Building in New York City on April 17, 2023. (Chung I Ho/The Epoch Times)

Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) has taken a stronger stand, advising his Republican colleagues that they should support Democrats in their efforts to replace Feinstein on the Senate Judiciary Committee.

Republicans should not assist Democrats in confirming Joe Bidens most radical nominees to the courts, Cotton said in a social media post that included an article about the Feinstein predicament.

Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) stated that she would not support a move by Senate Democrats to temporarily replace Feinstein on the Senate Judiciary Committee, arguing that such a move would aid Democrat efforts to pack the court with activist judges.

I will not go along with Chuck Schumers plan to replace Senator Feinstein on the Judiciary Committee and pack the court with activist judges, Blackburn said on Twitter on Monday. Joe Biden wants the Senate to rubber stamp his unqualified and controversial judges to radically transform America.

Rep. Dean Phillips (D-Minn.) was among the group of Democrats who believe the senator should step down, which he said in his own Twitter post: Sen. Feinstein is a remarkable American whose contributions to our country are immeasurable. But I believe its now a dereliction of duty to remain in the Senate and a dereliction of duty for those who agree to remain quiet.

In Feinsteins absence, the Judiciary Committee is deadlocked, keeping any of President Joe Bidens appointments for federal judges and other committee action from moving forward.
TUNIS, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Tunisian Foreign Minister Nabil Ammar on Monday hosted his Syrian counterpart Faisal Mekdad who started a three-day official visit to Tunisia aimed at resuming diplomatic relations between the two countries.

According to a previous statement by the Tunisian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, "Mekdad's visit came within the framework of keenness to restore bilateral relations between Syria and Tunisia."

This development follows the decision made on April 12 by the two countries to reopen their respective embassies and resume diplomatic ties, after Tunisia severed its diplomatic relations with Syria in February 2012 after the Syrian civil war broke out. 
Derek Chauvin Murder Conviction Upheld in George Floyd Killing

Former Minneapolis police Officer Derek Chauvin addresses the court as Hennepin County Judge Peter Cahill presides over Chauvin's sentencing at the Hennepin County Courthouse in Minneapolis on June 25, 2021. (Court TV via AP/Pool)

MINNEAPOLISThe Minnesota Court of Appeals on Monday upheld former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvins second-degree murder conviction in the killing of George Floyd, and let his 22.5-year sentence remain in place.

Chauvins attorney had asked the appeals court to throw out the ex-officers convictions for a long list of reasons, including the massive pretrial publicity. He also argued that legal and procedural errors deprived Chauvin of a fair trial. But the three-judge panel sided with prosecutors who said Chauvin got a fair trial and just sentence.

Floyd died on May 25, 2020, after Chauvin pinned him to the ground with a knee on Floyds neck.

Police officers undoubtedly have a challenging, difficult, and sometimes dangerous job. However, no one is above the law, Appeals Judge Peter Reyes wrote for the panel. When they commit a crime, they must be held accountable just as those individuals that they lawfully apprehend. The law only permits police officers to use reasonable force when effecting a lawful arrest. Chauvin crossed that line here when he used unreasonable force on Floyd.

Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, who assembled the prosecution team, said in a statement that he was grateful we have a system where everyone, no matter how egregious their offense, is entitled to due process and fair treatment.

The Courts decision today shows once again no one is above the lawand no one is beneath it, Ellison said.

A voicemail and emails were sent to Chauvins attorney, William Mohrman. He argued on appeal that the trial judge should have moved the case out of Minneapolis because of extensive pretrial publicity and unprecedented security precautions due to fears of violence.

The primary issue on this appeal is whether a criminal defendant can get a fair trial consistent with constitutional requirements in a courthouse surrounded by concrete block, barbed wire, two armored personnel carriers, and a squad of National Guard troops, all of which or whom are there for one purpose: in the event that the jury acquits the defendant, Mohrman said in oral arguments in January.

But Neal Katyal, a special attorney for the state, argued that Chauvin got one of the most transparent and thorough trials in our nations history.

Hennepin County Judge Peter Cahill sentenced Chauvin to 22.5 years after jurors found him guilty of second-degree murder, third-degree murder, and second-degree manslaughter. Chauvin later pleaded guilty to a separate federal civil rights charge and was sentenced to 21 years in federal prison, which he is now serving in Arizona concurrent with his state sentence.

Judge Cahill managed this trial with enormous care, and even if Chauvin could identify some minor fault, any error is harmless, Katyal said. The evidence of Chauvins guilt was captured on video for the world to see.

Mohrman argued that the pretrial publicity was the most extensive of any trial in Minnesota history, and that the judge should have moved the trial and sequestered the jury. He said the publicity and the riots, the citys $27 million settlement with Floyds family announced during jury selection, the unrest over a police killing of a black man in a Minneapolis suburb during jury selection, and the sealing off of the courthouse, were just some of the factors prejudicing Chauvins chance of a fair trial.

His appeal also focused on one juror who participated in a civil rights event commemorating the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.s March on Washington, a few months after Floyds death. Only after the trial did the juror reveal that he had been there.

But the appeals court ruled that Cahill did not abuse his discretion in deciding those issues.

The appeals court declined to address whether it was legally permissible to convict Chauvin of third-degree murder. The defense said a 2021 Minnesota Supreme Court decision in a different police killing case that clarified the definition of that crime meant the law no longer fit the facts of Floyds killing. But the appeals court noted that the trial judge never formally adjudicated that conviction nor did he sentence Chauvin on that count.
DeSantis Says Legislature Will Roll Back Disneys Last-Minute Deal

A float with people dressed as characters from the Walt Disney movie "Peter Pan" is seen as people attend the "Festival of Fantasy" parade at the Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom theme park in Orlando, Fla., on July 30, 2022. (REUTERS/Octavio Jones)

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis doubled down on his war with the Disney company, saying the legislature will soon invalidate the companys last-minute moves to circumvent the new state-appointed board governing its special district.

In a speech in Lake Buena Vista on April 17, DeSantis said he was confident the special districts new boardat its meeting this weekwould invalidate as illegal Disneys early February deal with the old board to transfer most of the districts power back to the company.

But in any case, he said a bill introduced to the legislature, probably next week, would end the matter.

Florida law allows the legislature to revoke a development agreement, the governors office said in a public statement.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis delivers remarks during the New Hampshire GOPs Amos Tuck Dinner in Manchester, N.H., on April 14, 2023. (Scott Eisen/Getty Images)

They thought they could create some type of development agreements that would essentially render everything that we did null and void and put them in control for perpetuity, DeSantis said.

Well, thats not going to work.

DeSantis said Disneys deal with the old board has a plethora of legal infirmities that will probably render it void.

The deal would, among other things, give Disney 30-year control over all development rights.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis displays the signed Parental Rights in Education bill flanked by elementary school students during a news conference at Classical Preparatory School in Shady Hills, Fla., on March 28, 2022. (Douglas R. Clifford/Tampa Bay Times via AP)

DeSantis said state agencies would be more active in regulating the property than they previously did.

Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson, who followed DeSantis to the podium, said Disneys rides will undergo safety inspections.

The agriculture departments Division of Consumer Services regulates amusement park rides.

It was unclear whether upcoming inspections for Disney put it on the same level as the states other large theme parks, or whether Disney might now face stricter regulation than its competitors.

Simpson said large theme parks are exempt from the safety inspections but that the new legislation would add safety inspections for those located in special districts like Disney.

DeSantis also said Disney would no longer get to do its own tax appraisals and that its propertys appraised valueand the taxes it payswould likely rise.

He raised the possibility that the district might choose to sell its utilities to private interestsraising money it could use to lower its indebtedness. And he noted Disney doesnt own all the land in the district. The district itself owns some of it.

DeSantis needled Disney with his suggestions for using that property.

What should we do with this land? DeSantis said. People have said, maybe create a state park, maybe try to do more amusement parks. Somebody even said, like, maybe we need another state prison. Who knows? I just think the possibilities are endless.

He said the state intends to give the districts first responderssome of whom accompanied DeSantis in the press conferencea raise.

Disney told The Epoch Times in an email in late March that the deal was legal and appropriate and conducted in compliance with the states Sunshine laws regarding open public records and public meetings.

After Disney came out against DeSantiss Parental Rights in Education bill last year, which prohibits sex education in public schools for kindergarten through 3rd grade, he retaliated by moving to strip the company of the special status it had enjoyed since 1967 as the company planned what became Disney World.

The Reedy Creek Improvement District had given the company quasi-governmental status, making it its own county with a handpicked board. That board controlled the special district created to handle its roads, utilities, and other essential services.

The states action last year ended that, and in follow-up legislation in December, created the new Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, with five board members appointed by the governor.

DeSantis signed that bill on Feb. 27, 2023, but less than three weeks before that, the old board transferred most of its power to Disney.

On April 3, the governor announced an investigation by his offices inspector general into the deal.
DeSantis Supports Bills Authorizing Death Penalty for Child Rapists

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks to Iowa voters gathered at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines, Iowa, on March 10, 2023. (Scott Olson/Getty Images)

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has backed legislation that would allow capital punishment for pedophiles convicted of sexual battery against a child under the age of 12a law that would directly challenge the Supreme Courts landmark Kennedy v. Louisiana ruling.

We are authorizing the death penalty for child rapists, which is cutting against recent Supreme Court precedent, but I think were right on the law, DeSantis said in an interview with Good Morning Orlando on Monday.

DeSantis said he believes current justices in the nations highest court would hear a challenge to the precedent. In 2008, the Supreme Court declared by a 5-4 vote that the death penalty for raping a child violated the constitutional ban on cruel and unusual punishment.

The Republican governor previously signaled disagreements with the old ruling, explaining that he thinks the decision wasnt well thought out and was very narrowly decided.

I dont think [the ruling] would be upheld when youre talking about some of the worst of the worst [non-homicidal rape cases], the 44-year-old said during a news conference in Miami earlier this year.

Additionally, most of the high courts justices that ruled it unconstitutional to allow capital punishment for convicted child rapists who did not kill their victims have all left the court, either through retirement or death.

I think the current court would consider a challenge to that, DeSantis said during Mondays interview. My view is, you have some of these people that will be serial rapists of six, seven-year-old kids. I think the death penalty is the only appropriate punishment when you have situations like that.

No Earthly Redemption

Last week, Florida lawmakers approved two bills that would authorize the death penalty for child rapists, saying an individual committing sexual battery upon a young child destroys the innocence of this child and violates all standards of decency held by civilized society.

Senate Bill 1342 (pdf), a bipartisan effort by Sen. Lauren Book, a Democrat, and Sen. Jonathan Martin, a Republican, cleared the Florida Senate Rules Committee on April 11 by unanimous vote, while House Bill 1297 (pdf), sponsored by Republican Rep. Jessica Baker, passed the Florida House of Representatives late on April 13 by a 95-14 vote.

Floridas Democratic State Sen. Lauren Book at the Florida State Capitol Building in Tallahassee, Fla., on Feb. 21, 2018. (Don Juan Moore/Getty Images)

There is no earthly redemption for somebody who rapes a small child, only God can save them. And in Florida, we should be eager to arrange that meeting, Baker said shortly before the bill was passed.

The proposals stipulate that defendants aged 18 or older could only be sentenced to death based on the recommendations of at least eight of 12 jurors. If fewer than eight jurors recommend the death penalty, defendants shall be sentenced to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.

It also requires the jury to prove beyond a reasonable doubt the existence of at least two aggravating factors to the crime, which must be voted on unanimously.

Aggravating factors include whether the perpetrator was a repeat offender, a designated sexual predator, used a firearm in the act, knowingly created the risk of death, or committed the capital felony on a victim particularly vulnerable due to age or disability.

Although the Supreme Courts 2008 decision has effectively prevented capital punishment for non-homicidal rape since that time, no convicted child rapist who did not kill their victim has actually been executed in the United States since 1964.

Crime Crackdown

If DeSantis signs the measure, Florida will have the lowest death penalty threshold in the nation. The states tough-on-crime crackdown comes amid speculation that the GOP governor could be announcing his White House bid soon.

Additionally, DeSantis is also expected to sign into law a second death penalty bill that would no longer require a jury to vote unanimously to condemn an offender to death.

The bill, SB 450, was drafted last year in the wake of Nikolas Cruz receiving life in prison for killing 17 students and staff members at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in 2018. A jury did not unanimously recommend the death penalty, allowing Cruz to serve 34 consecutive life sentencesdespite the majority of the victims families asking for his death.

Current Florida law requires unanimity among jurors before they can recommend a sentence of death. The bill, which passed the Senate last month before the House overwhelmingly approved it on April 13, would lower that threshold to require just two-thirds of all 12 jurors to recommend a death sentence.

The proposed change would affect only the sentencing process, meaning that a jury would still need a unanimous vote to convict a defendant before moving on to the penalty phase.

From NTD News
DHS Using 12 Overlapping Programs to Monitor Americans: Sen. Rand Paul

Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) pointed to at least 12 programs used by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to track what Americans say online as evidence the agency has departed from its original mission.

Pauls comments came during a hearing by the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, which heard testimony from DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas on April 18 on his departments budget requests.

The senator asserted that DHS has been using the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) to perpetrate abusive practices tracking Americans online movements, saying even the American Civil Liberties Union concluded that it was time to reconsider the movements of DHS.

Paul also pointed out that during the pandemic, DHS should have been monitoring and investigating the presence of biological research labs in the United States that could potentially lead to the release of other dangerous viruses, considering the fact that several U.S. intelligence agencies have concluded that COVID-19 originated in a biolab.

Instead of focusing on real threats like this, DHS was internally strategizing on how it can expand social media censorship of Americans using third-party nonprofits as  a clearinghouse for information to avoid the appearance of government propaganda, Paul said.

A report published last month by the Brennan Center for Justice found at least 12 overlapping DHS programs for tracking what Americans are saying online, Paul went on in his address to Mayorkas. It found that the departments programs have veered from its original counterterrorism mission, into tracking social and political movements and monitoring First Amendment-protected activity of American citizens. This is a serious abuse of power.

Censorship of Americans

In addition to citing reports by other groups, Paul mentioned his own and others comments about COVID-19 masks, vaccinations, and related issues that were censored through the work of the government partnering with social media.

In 2021, DHS even put out a video encouraging children to report their own family members Facebook for disinformation if they challenge the U.S. government narratives on COVID-19, Paul said incredulously.

According to the lawmaker, statements classified as opinion during the pandemic have, in many cases, been verified by scientists, and the voicing of unverified opinions is part of what should be the right of every American. Paul asserted that the U.S. government was the most significant source of disinformation in the pandemic, with the most influence and greatest impact on peoples lives.

Paul went on to say that the report found over brought mandates, flimsy safeguards, and fragmented oversight, which has allowed for overreach and abuses to proliferate across DHS intelligence programs.

The Kentucky Republican ended his opening comments to Mayorkas by saying this is the kind of abuse of power that should terrify all of us, regardless of which side of the aisle youre on.

Congress cannot continue to provide more funding and responsibility to an agency that so clearly misunderstands its statutory authorities and purpose, Paul said.
Encrypted Message Platforms Threaten to Pull Services From UK Over Online Safety Bill

Providers including WhatsApp said the bill will lead to mass surveillance of British citizens

A 3D printed Whatsapp logo and keyboard buttons on a computer motherboard in an illustration taken on Jan. 21, 2021. (Dado Ruvic/Illustration/Reuters)

Seven of the worlds leading messaging apps have written a scathing open letter to the UK government over its proposed Online Safety Bill.

Bosses from firms including Signal and WhatsApp say the bill would lead to the mass surveillance of personal communications in what would become the British internet.

Urging ministers to urgently rethink the legislation, they said it poses an unprecedented threat to the privacy, safety and security of every UK citizen and the people with whom they communicate around the world.

If given the go-ahead in its current form, tech bosses said they would have no choice but to withdraw services from the UK in what experts said would set a concerning global precedent on encryption.

The Home Office has defended the plans, arguing that tech firms had a moral duty to ensure law enforcement agencies were not kept in the dark about unprecedented levels of child sexual abuse on their platforms.

The House of Lords will begin line-by-line scrutiny of the legislation in its committee stage on Wednesday.

The firms warned the legislation would give regulator Ofcom the power to try to force the release of private messages on end-to-end encrypted communication services.

The government has argued that Ofcom will only be able to make companies use technology to identify child sexual abuse material in appropriate and limited circumstances.

But the tech bosses said: As currently drafted, the Bill could break end-to-end encryption, opening the door to routine, general and indiscriminate surveillance of personal messages of friends, family members, employees, executives, journalists, human rights activists and even politicians themselves, which would fundamentally undermine everyones ability to communicate securely.

Sets Global Precedent

Speaking to The Epoch Times on Tuesday, Matthew Lesh, director of policy at the Institute of Economic Affairs, described the tech letter as a significant and important moment.

Once you cut encryption for one purpose encryption is pretty much over, you are creating a surveillance system that could be used for other purposes, he said.

Companies like WhatsApp who have massive international user base are quite simply incapable of complying with that command.

Lesh said that threats from encrypted platforms about withdrawing apps from the UK if the issues around the bill are not resolved, should be taken seriously.

Theres no way that theyre going to undermine their service for global users just in order to keep UK regulators happythat sets a terrible global precedent.

Even if the UK might be doing it for the best possible reasons, it sets very concerning precedents for private communications all over the world.

And theres many people in conflict zones, theres social activists who rely on private communications.

We dont want to set a precedent that governments are happy to trample on that.

Monica Horten, policy manager with Open Rights Group, also welcomed the move by messaging platforms.

The spy clause appears to mean Ofcom-sanctioned mass surveillance of over 40 million British citizens private communications, she told The Epoch Times.

We urgently need clarification from the government as to its intentions.

We urge peers to support Lord Clement-Joness amendment that would remove private messaging platforms from the ambit of these disproportionate measures.

Horten said the proposals would affect messages sent through WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, Facebook Messenger, and iMessage, and direct messages sent through platforms such as Snapchat, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

She also said the government could force companies to install government accredited software on phones, which could scan private messages.

A teenage child looks at the screen of a mobile phone in London, on Jan. 17, 2023. (Leon Neal/Getty Images)

Child Abuse

Clare McGlynn, who has carried out extensive work into violence against women and girls, said the bill needed much more work.

Its so difficult because obviously, from a child protection angle, child sexual abuse is happening on these encrypted surfaces, she told The Epoch Times.

I totally understand that but on the other hand, I do actually understand that if we got rid of end-to-end encryption, it would be a serious problem particularly in many countries around the world in terms of emerging democracies and political protests.

McGlynn said at present, there is no focus on the abuse of women and girls in the proposed legislation.

Under the Online Safety Bill at the moment theres no mention of women and girls in the whole 262 pages of the bill, so theres more that can be done, she said.

Its a real worry because the Online Safety Bill is such an opportunity to make a difference and to really reduce and prevent online abuse.

And I guess at the moment in terms of violence against women and girls, were just not there yet.

Asked what will happen if the bill goes through, co-founder and Chief Executive of messaging app Element, Matt Hodgson, told BBC Radio 4s Today programme, In Element well almost certainly have to cease doing business in the UK because we cannot provide a secure messaging app.

He said he could not speak on behalf of the other messaging providers but said it was definitely possible firms could just pull out of Britain.

The problem is that the Online Safety Bill is going and putting this obligation for service providers such as Element or WhatsApp, Signal, or many others to go and scan for any kind of content that might be abusive and report it back to some kind of moderation team, so it is taking an encrypted messaging service and making it fundamentally unsecure and insecure, by going and obligating us to go and scan for content, Hodgson said.

The second that you put that scanning technology into the app, it opens an entire galaxy of possibility for attackers to use that scanning infrastructure.

The tech boss likened the impact of the bill to putting a CCTV camera into everybodys house.

The UK wants its own special access into end-to-end encrypted systems, he said.

Bad actors dont play by the rules. Rogue nation states, terrorists, and criminals will target that access with every resource they have.

OSB [Online Safety Bill] is outright dangerous. Its the cyber equivalent of Britain decommissioning its nuclear deterrent.

A Whatsapp logo in an illustration on Aug. 22, 2022. (Dado Ruvic/Illustration/Reuters)

British Internet

The open letter, published on Tuesday, said that global providers of end-to-end encrypted products and services cannot weaken the security of their products and services to suit individual governments.

It added, There cannot be a British internet or a version of end-to-end encryption that is specific to the UK.

In November, civil liberties groups warned that the Bill would undermine human rights in the UK if it went ahead.

In a letter to the U.N. special rapporteur on freedom of expression, the organisations, including Big Brother Watch, said the bill seriously threatens the rights to freedom of speech and privacy.

The civil liberties campaigners warned that the inclusion of these measures would result in the censorship of online speech which is permitted in the offline world and are protected under international human rights law.

The groups also argued that powers granted by the bill to the secretary of state could result in political censorship.

Responding to the encryption concerns on Tuesday, a Home Office spokesman said: We support strong encryption, but this cannot come at the cost of public safety.

Tech companies have a moral duty to ensure they are not blinding themselves and law enforcement to the unprecedented levels of child sexual abuse on their platforms.

The Online Safety Bill in no way represents a ban on end-to-end encryption, nor will it require services to weaken encryption.

Downing Street also defended the plan, with the prime ministers official spokesman insisting it will not introduce routine scanning of private communication.

It is being developed to ensure it has the requisite safeguards so it doesnt weaken, by default, end-to-end encryption, it is a targeted power to be used only when necessary and when other measures cannot be used, the spokesman said.

PA Media contributed to this report.
Energy Operator Runs From Farmers Protest Over Controversial Powerline Projects

The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) has stood by its decision to be absent from a meeting in Western Victoria, where residents and farmers protested power lines being built on local farms.

The meeting came after a convoy of tractors and utes rolled into the streets of St Arnaud on Monday to fight against the VNI-West transmission line project, which would see 500-kilovolt overhead transmission line being built to connect the Western Renewables Link at Bulgana to New South Wales near Echuca.

More than 300 residents, including farmers furious about powerlines being built over their properties, gathered in the town hall, but AEMO refused to attend.

AEMO was accused of avoiding the big crowd and attempting to influence the consultation, but AEMO Victorian planning group manager Nicola Falcon denied the allegation.

Falcon told ABCs Country Hour on Tuesday that the meeting was a different format to what they had agreed.

We want to be able to have productive discussions with a number of different stakeholders.

She said the market operator wanted to discuss the projects with as many people as possible, but holding consultations with a large group made it hard to target a number of different consumers and talk to a number of different landholders.

Consumers want affordable, reliable electricity, and we really do want to be able to explain to as many different people as possible that will help share that low cost, Falcon said.

We want to be able to have productive discussions with a number of different stakeholders.

But the Victoria Energy Policy Centres Professor Bruce Mountain said the transmission plan in dispute was written in 2010more than a decade olda time when solar was 10 times more expensive than it is now and the wind was three times more expensive.

Mountain told AAP that the project had a semblance of credibility because fossil-fuel differences could have justified, to some degree, transmission expansion between states.

He added that a better solution to the grid would be building them on existing infrastructure in Gippsland, the heart of Victorian energy production for more than half a century.

Weve got all these circuits that have got masses of spare capacity on them, he said.

And it will double for so little additional transmission capability.

Meanwhile, the Victorian government has defended the project, AEMO and its consultation.

AEMO have consulted with communities and experts on the design of these transmission project and will continue to engage as the project progress, ensuring they deliver benefits for both local communities and energy consumers, a spokeswoman said.

New transmission is vital for securing clean, affordable power for every Victorian town and enabling the development of our renewable energy industry as we work towards net-zero emissions by 2045.

Rally organiser and farmer Jason Barratt said consultation so far had been lacking.

Absolutely pathetic, honestly, he told AAP.

Its just been jargon  the conversation has been extremely poor and its just creating angst and anxiety community-wide.

They could potentially have huge ongoing effects for years to come as far as the way we farm and the viability of our farms, Barratt said.
Ex-Controller for Anaheim Companies Gets 5 Years for Embezzlement

SANTA ANA. Calif.A former controller for two Anaheim-based companies was sentenced April 17 to more than five years in federal prison for embezzling about $3 million.

Rosalba Meza, 48, of Dana Point, pleaded guilty Dec. 12 to embezzlement, cheating on her taxes, and fraudulently applying for Paycheck Protection Program relief during the COVID-19 pandemic, receiving $20,569, prosecutors said.

U.S. District Judge Cormac Carney, who sentenced Meza to 63 months in prison, also ordered her to pay $4,192,470 in restitution.

Meza held various positions at Anaheim-based Trilogy Plumbing Inc. from 2003 through January 2020, embezzling the money from around 2017 through 2020 when she was fired, prosecutors said. Her annual salary was about $65,000, according to prosecutors.

Meza told executives in February 2019 that Trilogy Plumbing Inc. and Matrix Management failed to make payroll, prosecutors said. In April 2019 the companies came under IRS scrutiny for unpaid payroll taxes, prosecutors said.

Meza falsely told her bosses that she did not pay the quarterly payroll taxes to instead cover payroll, prosecutors said. Meza, however, had taken the money for herself, prosecutors said.

She stole the funds through hundreds of unauthorized wire transfers she made from the companies bank accounts to bank accounts she owned or controlled, prosecutors said in a sentencing brief.

Defendant then used the stolen money for personal expenses, which included more than $1 million in cash withdrawals at bank branches and ATMs in the United States and Mexico, in addition to transferring more than $1 million to bank accounts owned or controlled by her family members in the United States and Mexico.

She cheated the government out of about $1.1 million in taxes, prosecutors said.

Finally, after defendants embezzlement scheme was uncovered and her employment was terminated, defendant engaged in a fraudulent loan scheme, prosecutors said.

The sentencing guidelines called for a punishment of 51 to 63 months.

Mezas crimes were extremely egregious, longstanding, harmful, and motivated by selfish greed, prosecutors said.
Family Wants Life Terms for Killers of Frontline Staff

A paramedic unloads a patient from an ambulance at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital on January 10, 2022 in Sydney, Australia. (Jenny Evans/Getty Images)

Laws to better protect New South Wales (NSW) frontline health workers could be on the cards after the fatal stabbing of a Sydney paramedic, with his family calling for tougher penalties.

The family of Steven Tougher, a 29-year-old father killed while taking a meal break during a night shift outside a Sydney McDonalds last Friday, wants mandatory life sentences for those who kill anyone in the line of duty.

His colleague activated a duress alarm, sparking a police response in which 21-year-old Jordan Fineanganofo was tasered, arrested and later charged with murder.

Stevens father, Jeff Tougher, is petitioning authorities for Stevens Law, including a range of stronger measures to protect the service community in light of his sons death.

Laws like mandatory life sentences for killing anyone in the line of duty, he wrote in an emotional Facebook post.

A mandatory prison term for assaulting these people. Perhaps three years. Regardless of circumstance or state of mind.

Tougher has talked with Premier Chris Minns and indicated he is on board with the suggestions.

Im asking for these laws to protect the service community, so they dont have to look over their shoulder while they are performing CPR on an unconscious baby, Tougher said.

If these sentences make a potential psychopath think twice, then somebody gets to go home to their family and kiss their kids good night.

NSW parliament last year passed legislation so people convicted of assaulting frontline emergency services workers, including paramedics, prison officers, hospital staff and firefighters, could face hefty fines and up to 14 years in jail.

Minns confirmed he talked with the family and had instructed the attorney-general and the Department of the Premier and Cabinet to look at potential changes to the law.

We are concerned that paramedics are not feeling safe about going to work, he told reporters on Tuesday.

Policy change or legislative change may be required in NSW.

There could also be changes to operational guidelines and resourcing for paramedics in the field.

Its heartbreaking what that family has gone through in the last week, Minns said.

They want to make sure that his death wasnt in vain.

The Australian Paramedics Association said it was a tough time for a very close-knit workforce.

Paramedics quite often work in a hostile work environment, and an incident like this only heightens the awareness of the important job that we do, NSW assistant secretary Brendan McIlveen said.

Health Minister Ryan Park promised to listen to and consult with the Tougher family, as well as Stevens paramedic colleagues, about their experiences and what could be done to improve their safety.

Jessica Comish, a family friend and nurse who worked alongside Tougher, said the healthcare community remained devastated.

It should never have happened, and it should never happen again. It was an abhorrent act, she told AAP.

If we cant feel safe in our workplaces, how can we be expected to keep other people safe?

NSW paramedic Lisa Laugher says her colleagues are on edge.

AMA NSW president Michael Bonning said violence against healthcare workers was all too common.

NSW Nurses and Midwives Association general secretary Shaye Candish said it was heartbreaking when a healthcare worker didnt get to go home.
Oscar Wilde quipped, Fashion is ephemeral. Art is eternal. Indeed what is a fashion really? A fashion is merely a form of ugliness so absolutely unbearable that we have to alter it every six months! Its true that models, trends, and even designers often come and go. It is rare for something or someone to become a lasting icon. But some fashions, it seems, have staying power.

France, while universally famous for its luxurious fashion industry, and Paris is its peak-of-chic capital, also boasts three ladies from its history, Queen Marie Antoinette, Empress Josephine, and Empress Eugenie, who continue to inspire designers, books, movies, television, exhibitions, collectors, and lovers of history and style. These consorts set the trends of their times and remain timeless French fashion plates. Surviving portraiture helps the modern viewer understand how each womans taste transcended borders and eras.

Marie Antoinette

Marie Antoinette With a Rose, 1783, by Elisabeth-Louise Vigee Le Brun. Oil on canvas. Palace of Versailles. (Public Domain)

Marie Antoinette was painted throughout her lifetime, from her childhood in the Viennese palaces of her mother, the Holy Roman Empress, to her teenage years in the French court as dauphine (wife to the heir to the French throne), and later in adulthood as Queen of France. The painter who captured her best was Elisabeth-Louise Vigee Le Brun.

Vigee Le Brun was one of the most talented artists in 18th-century France and, indeed, is one of the most important female artists in history. When Vigee Le Brun and Marie Antoinette first met they were the same age and soon developed a close friendship. The queen helped the artist gain admittance to the prestigious Royal Academy of Painting and Sculpture, and over the years Vigee Le Brun was called upon to create 30 portraits of the queen.

One such example, with beautiful coloration and exquisite details, is Marie Antoinette With a Rose. This painting showcases the queen in a blue-gray silk robe a la francaise adorned with ribbons and lace. This dress was likely made by Rose Bertin, the queens dressmaker who laid the foundations for haute couture. In the picture, the queens powdered hair pouf displays a gauzy striped turban trimmed with ostrich feathers. The carefully crafted image of the entire ensemble demonstrates Marie Antoinettes regality and acquired French-ness.

Jewelry worn by Marie Antoinette on display at Sothebys auction house. (Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

This painting also displays Marie Antoinettes legendary love of jewels. In the work, she wears a double strand pearl necklace and matching bracelets. During this age, pearls were more valuable than diamonds. A large pearl pendant once owned by Marie Antoinette, which had descended through her daughters family, sold at Sothebys in 2018 for a record-breaking $36 million. Jewelry historian Gislain Aucremanne describes, in a talk about Marie Antoinette at the jewelry school LECOLE, that the pearls price revealed once again the interest and passion that everyone, general public and intense collectors, always had for Marie Antoinette.

The Queens Chemise

Marie Antoinette in a Chemise Dress, after 1783, by anonymous painter after Elisabeth-Louise Vigee Le Brun. Oil on canvas. Timken Collection, National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C. (Public Domain)

The same year that Vigee Le Brun painted Marie Antoinette With a Rose, she had earlier created and put on display the painting Marie Antoinette in a Chemise Dress. This painting scandalized the public for it showed the queen wearing a robe en chemise, also known as chemise a la reine.

The queen, weary of wearing elaborate and heavy dresses at court, adored this new look of a loosely belted, largely unadorned muslin dress and it became the style of choice among fashionable ladies in France and other countries. As Aucremanne explained in the LECOLE talk, during the 18th century everyone in Europe lived a la francaise. However, French critics took offense at the dress resemblance to the chemise undergarment of the period.

Marie Antoinette in a Chemise Dress was removed from view due to this outcry and Marie Antoinette With a Rose was quickly produced to put in its place. However, it was the robe a la francaise that became outmoded with the French Revolution, while the popularity of Marie Antoinetts chemise style of dress continued into the Napoleonic era.

Madame Bonaparte

Portrait of Josephine, the wife of Napoleon, 1801, by Francois Gerard. Oil on canvas. Hermitage Museum, St. Petersburg. (Public Domain)

The Martinique-born Empress Josephine, supreme tastemaker in her husbands empire and great patroness of the arts and botany, pushed sartorial boundaries. The Napoleonic court drew symbolic inspiration from both early medieval French dynasties and the Roman Empire, purposefully bypassing the previously deposed French monarchy.

The chemise dress, similar to a Roman tunic, was a prefect mode for furthering the propagandic image of Napoleon as heir to the Roman emperors. Under Josephine, the diaphanous chemise dress was no longer reminiscent of a fairy tale shepherdess or milkmaid, as it had been when worn by Marie Antoinette, and instead was made more transparent with a lower neckline. This dress type was fastened just under the bust and was known as the Empire silhouette; it is a silhouette still in vogue today.

Josephine can be seen wearing this style in her portrait at the Palace of Malmaison by Francois Gerard. The public was captivated by what Josephine would wear next. Carol Woolton, an editor of British Vogue, says on an episode of the podcast If Jewels Could Talk that Josephine is still an ultimate inspiration for what happens in Paris.

Empress Bonapartes Tiara

A gold cameo and enamel diadem by Jacques-Amboise Oliveras, circa 1808, believed to have belonged to Empress Josephine Bonaparte. (DANIEL LEAL/Getty Images)

Gerards painting depicts the empress wearing a tiara. Tiaras were chosen as a means of adornment by Josephine because they harken back to ancient Rome and previous French queens had not worn them. Josephine wore tiaras low on her forehead, in a style known as a la Josephine. This style became popular again over a hundred years later in the Roaring 20s. Unlike Marie Antoinette, Josephine wore her hair unpowdered and in soft curls.

In Josephines portrait at Malmaison, the empress is specifically wearing a tiara set with cameos. The craze during the Napoleonic era for the ancient art of glypticscameos (engraved gems with a raised relief image) and intaglios (gems where a design has been cut as a depression into the surface) was heightened by contemporaneous archeological discoveries. Two tiaras, reputed to be examples from Josephines vast cameo and intaglio jewelry collection, came up for sale at Sothebys in 2021 and sold for a combined $763,000.

Empress Eugenie

The Empress Eugenie, 1854, by Franz Xaver Winterhalter. Oil on canvas. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York City. (Public Domain)

Empress Eugenie, born into Spanish nobility, was the wife of Emperor Napoleon III, the nephew of Napoleon I and grandson of Josephine. In contrast to Josephine, Eugenie was fascinated by Marie Antoinette and embraced her style, adapting it to the mid-19th century. The Empress Eugenie portrait by Franz Xaver Winterhalter, a prominent painter of lush portraits of royalty, is reminiscent of Vigee Le Bruns Marie Antoinette with a Rose. Eugenie is portrayed in a luxurious and elaborate yellow silk dress with fringes, lace, ribbons, bows, and tassels, along with a powered hairstyle and ropes of pearls.

Similar to Marie Antoinette and Josephine, Eugenie also popularized new styles and brands. Marion Fasel, founder and editorial director of The Adventurine, describes Eugenie as the de-facto style icon of the era. She famously changed her clothes and jewelry three or four times a day and rarely wore the same outfit twice. Charles Frederick Worth made her dresses. Louis Vuitton crafted her trunks.

Worth, an Englishman, was a Paris-based designer considered to be the father of haute couture. Eugenie was a devoted patroness. With her support, Worth made fashionable changes to the de rigueur crinoline, a stiff petticoat worn under a full skirt, and then introduced a radical new silhouette that became all the rage: the bustle.

The Bow Brooch

After Napoleon III was deposed, the new French government (French Third Republic) sold a large cache of the French crown jewels at the auction of the century. The official line was that these were immoral luxury items whose proceeds would be put to better use, but the real reason was that the government was concerned that if various claimants to the French throne were able to wear these jewels ripe with cultural and political power, they would be a threat to the stability of the new government.

At the auction, an American jewelry brand, Tiffanys, bought more than two thirds of the lots. One of the highlights and, indeed, one of the most famous jewels of the era, was a large bow brooch encrusted with diamonds that had been custom-made for Eugenie. The brooch was bought on behalf of the Gilded Age American society queen Mrs. Astor.

In 2008, the jewel reappeared at auction, this time at Christies. In recent years, France has been eager to reclaim its cultural heritage. A private sale of this brooch was brokered with the Friends of the Louvre organization and they bought it for $10.5 million. Today, it is on display, along with other reclaimed jewels, at the Louvre, where it is admired by visitors.

While Queen Marie Antoinette, Empress Josephine, and Empress Eugenie have their own styles and stories, they also have many commonalities. All were married to monarchs who ended up being deposed. All were born outside France, and yet are inextricable intrinsic parts of French history and culture. In their time, Paris was the ultimate center of luxury, as it still is, and they were its fashion leaders, still admired today.
FBI Arrest in Secret Chinese Police Station Probe Reveals Canadian Link: Report

A balloon is held at a press conference and rally in front of the America ChangLe Association highlighting Beijing's transnational repression, in New York City on Feb. 25, 2023. A now-closed overseas Chinese police station is located inside the association building. (Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times)

Shortly after arresting two men in the United States on conspiracy and obstruction of justice charges, the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation has uncovered a piece of evidence in one of the mens possession that appears to be linked to a suspected secret Chinese police service station located in Canada, according to a report.

Lu Jianwang and Chen Jinping were both arrested by the FBI on April 17 on charges of obstruction of justice and operating a secret police service station in New York City on behalf of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

Prosecutors alleged that both Lu and Chen acted on orders from the CCP to track down and silence Chinese dissidents living in the U.S. while operating out of an overseas Chinese police station called the Fuzhou Police Overseas Service Station, located inside the America ChangLe Association building in Lower Manhattan.

The presence of the covert police station found in New York City echoes similar suspicions in Canada as the RCMP investigates a number of locations across the country suspected of being secret Chinese police stations.

The issue first came to light after the Spain-based NGO Safeguard Defenders said in two reports released last year that it was aware of five unofficial Chinese police stations operating in Canada.

Now, following Lu and Chens arrest by the FBI, a document recently filed in a Brooklyn federal court says that Lus smartphone contained a photograph of ceremonies commemorating the opening of Chinese overseas police stations in five countries, including one in Canada, according to the Globe and Mail.

The RCMP told The Epoch Times that it is actively investigating reports nationally of criminal activity relating to the suspected Chinese police stations in Canada, but did not provide comment on the photographic link to the stations found in the FBIs arrest.

The RCMP has strong relationships with Canadas security and intelligence community and law enforcement agencies around the world, said RCMP spokesperson Robin Percival, adding that the federal police work closely with our Five Eyes partners to respond to and maintain situational awareness of all threats to national security.

Police Stations in Canada

In March, Michael Duheme, the RCMPs then-deputy commissioner of federal policing and now its interim commissioner, told a parliamentary committee that operations at four of the overseas Chinese police stations had ceased, but said police have not laid any criminal charges in relation to the issue.

The update came after former RCMP Commissioner Brenda Lucki told a House of Commons committee in February that federal police had carried out a disruption at four of the stations in Canada by sending uniformed officers in marked police cars to speak with the people involved in those police stations.

The RCMP also said in March that it was investigating two presumed Chinese police stations in the Montreal area after receiving over a dozen serious tips about them.

At the time, police said they were analyzing the tips and looking for more. The RCMP told The Epoch Times earlier this month that there had been no updates to the investigation since then.

Andrew Thornebrooke, Eva Fu, and Noe Chartier contributed to this report.

Editors note: This article has been updated to include the RCMPs response.
This year's China Import and Export Fair hosts close to 70,000 booths for about 35,000 exhibitors in Guangzhou, south China's Guangdong Province. Follow Xinhua's Huo Siying to find out why the foreign business people are interested in the event and what new opportunities they find at the exhibition.





Produced by Xinhua Global Service




Federal Court Overturns Nations First Natural Gas Ban

A Ninth Circuit court on Monday went against a Berkeley ordinance that banned natural gas piping in new buildings inside the city.

A district court had dismissed an action from the California Restaurant Association, a dismissal that is now reversed by the Ninth Circuit court, according to its published opinion on the case (pdf).

The California Restaurant Association alleged that the Energy Policy and Conservation Act preempts the city of Berkeleys regulation, which banned natural gas piping in new buildings.

The Act expressly preempts State and local regulations on the energy use of natural gas appliances used in household and restaurant kitchens, according to the Ninth Circuit judges opinion on Monday.

Instead of directly banning those appliances in new buildings, Berkeley took a more circuitous route to the same result and enacted a building code that prohibits natural gas piping into those buildings, rendering the gas appliances useless, according to Judge Patrick Bumatay.

States and localities cant skirt the text of broad preemption provisions by doing indirectly what Congress says they cant do directly. Berkeley cant evade preemption by merely moving up one step in the energy chain and banning natural gas piping within those buildings.

Judge Miller Baker, concurring, wrote that the Berkeley ordinance cut to the heart of what Congress sought to prevent, which is state and local manipulation of building codes for the purpose of regulating natural gas consumption.

The third concurring opinion was by Judge Diarmuid OScannlain, a Reagan appointee.

I agree that EPCA preempts the Ordinance. But I only reach that conclusion because, under Ninth Circuit precedent, I believe I am bound to hold that the presumption against preemption does not apply to the express-preemption provision before us today. That conclusion is not obvious or easy, OScannlain wrote.

While I ultimately conclude that, under this courts cases, the presumption does not apply here, the law remains troubling and confusedbeset by tensions in Supreme Court precedents, disagreement among the circuits, and important practical questions still unanswered.

According to Judge Bumatay, a Trump appointee with offices in San Diego, the California Restaurants Association demonstrated that some of its members, which include restaurateurs and chefs, would open or relocate a restaurant in Berkeley if the citys ban on natural gas piping was not in place. Therefore the Berkeley ordinance harmed at least one of the associations members.

The judge who initially dismissed the California Restaurant Associations case was Obama appointee Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers, a District Court Judge for the Northern District of California.

The ordinance for banning gas piping was adopted in Berkeley in July 2019, citing as one reason for its existence the greenhouse gas emissions produced by natural gas use.

The restaurant associations president and CEO Jot Condie applauded the reversal, the Courthouse News Service reported.

The Ninth Circuit has unanimously affirmed the central issue in this case: local ordinances cannot override federal law, Condie said.

Cities and states are not equipped to regulate the energy use or energy efficiency of appliances that businesses and homeowners have chosen; energy policy and conservation is an issue with national scope and national security implications. Natural gas appliances are crucial for restaurants to operate effectively and efficiently, as they allow for a wide variety of cuisines and innovations in the restaurant industry.

The associations attorney, Reichman Jorgensen Lehman & Feldberg partner Sarah O. Jorgensen, said Berkeley should not be permitted to overrule energy decisions that affect the country as a whole.

The ruling could be appealed, according to a statement by Matt Vespa, a senior attorney with the nonprofit Earthjustice, the Associated Press reported.
Federal Judge Halts Colorado Ban on Abortion Reversal

Attendees wave placards during a rally on the one-year anniversary of Colorado's abortion law, the Reproductive Health Equity Act, outside the State Capitol in downtown Denver, on April 4, 2023. (David Zalubowski/AP Photo)

A judge has temporarily halted a Colorado bill that banned abortion reversal treatment after a clinic alleged in a lawsuit that the new law violated its Constitutional rights.

Judge Daniel Domenico, who noted that Colorado is the only state to ban the treatment, issued the temporary restraining order over the weekend after Bella Health and Wellness argued that barring them from prescribing the abortion pill reversal treatment violates their First Amendment right to free speech and religious exercise.

Medical abortion is administered by taking two medicationsmifepristone and then misoprostolover a few days. Bella Health and Wellness provides patients with progesterone, which they claim walks back the effects of mifepristone.

The halt on Colorados bill will be evaluated in a preliminary injunction hearing scheduled for April 24.

Judge Domenicos halt is valid for 14 days and applies only to Bella Health and Wellness.

Colorado States ban on abortion reversal will last at least until October when the States medical boards will have to determine whether the treatment is a generally accepted standard of practice and therefore allowed.

The idea of reversing a medical abortion has become a point of interest in the abortion clash nationwide after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, leaving abortion up to the states. Roughly a dozen states have passed laws in the preceding years compelling abortion providers to inform their patients about the reversal treatment.

A Republican proposal to do the same in Colorado this year floundered in the Democrat-controlled statehouse. That is partly because the treatment has found condemnation from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, saying its not based on science and [does] not meet clinical standards.

The ban was part of a three-bill package enshrining abortion and transgender care rights in the state.

The temporary restraining order, first reported by The Colorado Sun, applies to the bill.

In Colorado, Bella Health and Wellness argued that prohibiting them from prescribing the treatment would violate their sincerely held religious beliefs and that they had a patient whose current treatment would be interrupted if the new law was enforced.

One of the organizations attorneys, Laura Wolk Slavis from the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty, wrote in a statement: Colorados new law is the opposite of choiceit targets women who have changed their minds and forces them to undergo abortions they want to stop. This law tramples the constitutional rights of these women and their doctors.

Domenico, a district judge nominated by former President Donald Trump, wrote in his ruling: I find that the plaintiffs are sufficiently likely to succeed on the merits of one or more of their claims that short-term relief is warranted until the defendants can be heard in opposition.

The lawsuit arrives as the U.S. Supreme Court hears a case regarding the Food and Drug Administrations approval of mifepristone.

Spokespersons for Colorado Gov. Jared Polis and another for Colorados Senate Democrats declined to comment, citing the pending litigation.

U.S. Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito has temporarily put a lower court order imposing significant restrictions on the distribution of the abortion drug mifepristone on hold through next Wednesday as the high court considers a request by the Biden administration to block the restrictions.

The order stems from a lawsuit by pro-life groups and doctors seeking to ban the pill.

Reuters contributed to this report.
Federal Judge Tosses Trumps Request to Delay E. Jean Carroll Defamation Case

E. Jean Carroll speaks onstage during the How to Write Your Own Life panel at the 2019 Glamour Women Of The Year Summit at Alice Tully Hall in New York on Nov. 10, 2019. (Ilya S. Savenok/Getty Images for Glamour)

A federal judge in Manhattan has rejected former President Donald Trumps request to delay a civil defamation lawsuit after he disputed author E. Jean Carrolls allegations that he raped her.

In a 2019 book, Carroll claimed that Trump raped her in a New York department store dressing room in the mid-1990s. Trump has repeatedly denied Carrolls allegations, leading the author to file a federal defamation lawsuit against the former president in New York.

Trumps legal team had sought to delay the trial over Carrolls defamation allegations, arguing that they should delay his trial by a month to provide a longer cooling off period after the media buzz surrounding a separate criminal case against Trump brought by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg.

In a Monday decision (pdf), Judge Lewis A. Kaplan ruled, There is no justification for an adjournment and that the case before him is entirely unrelated to the state prosecution brought by Bragg.

Kaplan, an appointee of former President Bill Clinton, wrote that the media coverage surrounding Braggs decision to indict Trump was significantly (though certainly not entirely) invited or provoked by Mr. Trumps own actions.

Trump first brought attention to Braggs criminal case even before Bragg announced an indictment. Trump has repeatedly denied the criminal allegations in Braggs case, which are linked to his alleged reimbursement for payments to stop adult film actress Stormy Daniels from making claims the two had an affair. Trump has also questioned the political motives of Bragg and the judge overseeing the case, Juan Merchan.

Trumps lawyers had identified Daniels allegations of an affair and Carrolls claims he raped her as a shared pattern of alleged sexual misconduct that rests at the heart of both Braggs criminal prosecution and Carrolls defamation lawsuit. Trumps lawyers argued that the media buzz related to Braggs case would therefore make it difficult for Trump to be able to get an impartial jury in Carrolls civil case in the same city.

Kaplan argued that the two cases do indeed have something to do with sex' but that the similarities end there and thus, the Trump teams argument is not a strong enough reason to justify delaying the civil case stemming from Carrolls rape allegations.

With Kaplans decision, the civil defamation case will proceed as scheduled on April 25.

Carrolls Defamation Case

The trial will not directly address Carrolls rape allegations but will focus on whether Trump defamed the author when he denied her rape allegations.

Carrolls defamation complaint (pdf) specifically alleges Trump accused her of lying about the rape to increase her own book sales.

On June 21, 2019, Trump issued a statement that reads:

Regarding the story by E. Jean Carroll, claiming she once encountered me at Bergdorf Goodman 23 years ago. Ive never met this person in my life. She is trying to sell a new bookthat should indicate her motivation. It should be sold in the fiction section  Shame on those who make up false stories of assault to try to get publicity for themselves, or sell a book, or carry out a political agendalike Julie Swetnick who falsely accused Justice Brett Kavanaugh  If anyone has information that the Democratic Party is working with Ms. Carroll or New York Magazine, please notify us as soon as possible. The world should know whats really going on. It is a disgrace and people should pay dearly for such false accusations.

In an Oct. 12, 2022, post on his Truth social media platform, Trump again wrote, I dont know this woman, have no idea who she is, other than it seems she got a picture of me many years ago, with her husband, shaking my hand on a reception line at a celebrity charity event. She completely made up a story that I met her at the doors of this crowded New York City Department Store and, within minutes, swooned her. It is a Hoax and a lie.

NTD News reached out to Trumps attorneys for comment but did not receive a response by press time.

From NTD News
Former Planned Parenthood Employee Investigated for Child Porn Dies by Suicide

Tim Yergeau, a Connecticut man under investigation for child pornography, took his own life in his apartment in New Haven, Conn., on April 11, 2023, in his apartment building shown here in a file image. (Google Maps)

A former communications director for Planned Parenthood killed himself on April 11 after police raided his apartment as part of a child pornography investigation against him.

Tim Yergeau, 35, was found dead in his New Haven, Connecticut, apartment on April 11. Yergeau had been working as the marketing and communications director for the Long Wharf Theatre, a regional nonprofit organization, and was previously employed by Planned Parenthood from December 2018 until August 2022, The Daily Wire reported.

The person who died was definitely the suspect in a child pornography investigation and the person who committed suicide, said New Haven Police Chief Karl Jacobson, according to a New Haven Register report.

It was an open investigation, so he knew he was going to be arrested, Jacobson told the New Haven Independent.

Jacobson told the New Haven Register there were two open investigations against Yergeau, and they will not release further information regarding the matter until it is confirmed that Yergeau had no accomplices.

The Epoch Times has contacted the New Haven Police Department for more information.

Yergeau was a supporter of Planned Parenthood and related causes. He was an active participant in pride and queer activism based on his Instagram posts.

Excited to announce that today I start a new job on the marketing/communications team at Planned Parenthood of Southern New England. Excited to be working on issues Im passionate about: healthcare access, reproductive and sexual health, diversity and inclusion, civic engagement, and voting rights, said Yergeau in a Dec. 17, 2018, Instagram post.

The post included a photo of the slogan, I Stand With Planned Parenthood.

In a more recent June 2022 post, he shared a photo of himself wearing a T-shirt that said Bans Off Our Bodies.

In a post on May 22, 2017, Yergeau shared an image of a hand-written note that said, A real friend immediately deletes your hard drive when you die.

Bungled Raid

A few days prior to the suicide, local police had raided Yergeaus apartment building but botched the bust by accidentally raiding the apartment of an innocent neighbor.

They obviously hit the wrong door, Jacobson told the New Haven Register. We feel for the woman and were going to do everything we can to make it right.

Stacey Wezenter, the neighbor, told the New Haven Register she heard police knock down her door at about 6 a.m. and that police put her in handcuffs.

I started running down the hallway, it was just like a movie. They had guns and flashlights on me, Wezenter said, according to the outlet. They put me against the wall and handcuffed me. I was crying and saying, Whats happening?

When the police realized they made a mistake, they proceeded to Yergeaus apartment where they confiscated his computer and other electronics.
Former UK Prime Minister Calls for World Bank Reforms to Counter Beijing

David Cameron leaves his home ahead of giving evidence to the Commons Treasury Committee on Greensill Capital in London on May 13, 2021. (Victoria Jones/PA)

Former British Prime Minister, David Cameron, has called for reforms at the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to counter Beijings influence.

He warned that the United Kingdom also risks losing out to communist China unless it steps up foreign aid assistance, Cameron wrote in The Sunday Telegraph on April 15.

Through its Belt and Road Initiative, China is lending vast amounts for huge infrastructure projects. The appeal to borrowers is that these loans have fewer conditions attached than those of traditional Western institutions. But they are saddling countries with debts they can ill afford to repay, he wrote.

The reach is wide: since 2017, China has become the worlds largest official creditor, surpassing the World Bank, IMF and traditional creditors combined. However, there is little point complaining about countries signing up for the Belt and Road if we cant say to them heres the alternative.

The former prime minister called for Britain to stand up to Beijing by pushing for reforms at multilateral development banks (MDBs) like the World Bank and the IMF to make it easier for less developed countries to have access to much-needed capital.

Additionally, he noted that every continent is served by its own regional lending establishments.

Cameron wrote that MDB reform would provide a definite counterweight to Beijings growing global influence.

It might not be as catchy as make poverty history, but expand MDBs balance sheets is the next big imperative in the fight against poverty, he said.

The International Monetary Fund logo outside the headquarters building during the IMF/World Bank spring meeting in Washington on April 20, 2018. (Yuri Gripas/Reuters)

The former PM said that MDBs should make more risky investments by loaning an extra trillion dollars to countries in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.

Cameron said that the U.K. could also take the lead by using the Commonwealth Development Corporation (CDC), now known as British International Investment (BII), to carry out similar work to MDBs and remove Beijings influence from the poorer nations of the British Commonwealth.

For example, the BII fought off bids by a Chinese-backed rival in 2021 to win a license to provide telecom infrastructure in Ethiopia as part of an international consortium of businesses.

Low British Foreign Aid

Cameron also lamented the $3.71 billion cuts in Britains foreign aid spending during the pandemic from 2020 to 2021. Whitehall cut the target for the total spending from 0.7 percent of gross national income (GNI) to 0.5 percent.

He wrote that maintaining foreign aid spending at 0.7 percent of GNI was one of his proudest achievements in office and that the decision to cut the overseas development budget in 2020 was a mistake.

It was a promise made to the worlds poorest countriesand one that I made sure we kept, Cameron told The Telegraph.

He said he was a realist who understood the tight financial situation facing the government at the time, but the need for investment in developing countries is greater than ever.

He said that triple economic blows resulting from the pandemic, the war in Ukraine, and catastrophic climate change are playing into the hands of Beijing.

He also criticized that more British aid was being spent to house migrants in the U.K. rather than alleviating poverty overseas.

More than a billion British pounds have been stripped from the governments overseas aid budget to be spent on feeding and housing illegal migrants in the U.K., say critics.

Illegal immigrants onboard U.K. Border Force vessel HMC Speedwell after being picked up at sea, as they are brought into the Marina in Dover, southeast England, on Dec. 21, 2021. (Ben Stansall/AFP via Getty Images)

Cameron said that lowering aid spending overseas increased risks at home, and referred to failed states like Somalia and the problems of piracy, mass migration and terrorism, he explained.

He believes that alleviating poverty overseas with additional aid will encourage more economic migrants to stay in their home countries as living standards there improve.

In 2022, Whitehall 28.9 percent of the total British development budget was spent on refugees domestically.

Many Conservative members of Parliament agree with Camerons views regarding the neglect of the foreign aid program.

When Labour left office in 2010, Britain was an acknowledged development superpower. When David Cameron was in government . . . we were definitely a development superpower, Andrew Mitchell, the U.K. development minister, told The Telegraph.

Today, lets be frank, we are not a development superpower and we need to win that back. Its impossible to deny that Britains reputation during recent years internationally has declined.

Quietly Pushing Back Against Beijing

Last year, officials at Whitehall told The Telegraph about the governments plan to fight back against Chinese attempts to buy up the Commonwealth by underwriting British-backed deals.

Then Foreign Secretary Liz Truss foreign development strategy would focus on providing investment and projects in countries where Beijing was providing cheap infrastructure.

Construction of the Nairobi Expressway, undertaken by the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) on a public-private partnership (PPP) basis, along Uhuru Highway in Nairobi, Kenya, on Oct. 20, 2021. (Thomas Mukoya/Reuters)

The British government has since been attempting to halt Chinese influence and other rivals from spreading their influence in developing markets and allow the U.K. to retake its place on the world stage.

Whitehall has been primarily targeting Commonwealth and former Commonwealth countries in Southeast Asia and the Caribbean, which have become increasingly dependent on Beijing, which has invested $847.37 billion across 42 Commonwealth countries since 2005.

The African Development Bank agreed in 2022 with Whitehall and the City of London insurance markets to share risk and release an additional $2 billion for climate finance, Mitchell and Njuguna Ndungu, Kenyas finance minister, told The Telegraph.

Further work to amend the articles of the African Development Fund to facilitate market borrowing could release an extra $25 billion.

In 2022, the UKs Export Credit Agency also offered clauses to poorer nations in its loan agreements to suspend repayments if an economic shock hit.
France Is Helping China to Invade Taiwan, but So Are We

French President Emmanuel Macron and Chinese leader Xi Jinping take part in a FrancoChinese business council meeting in Beijing on April 6, 2023. (Ludovic Marin/Pool/AFP via Getty Images)

Commentary

In hopes of advancing his ambitions for strategic autonomy of Europe from the United States, during his April 57 state visit to China, French President Emmanuel Macron did far more than give Chinese Communist Party (CCP) dictator Xi Jinping a propaganda victory by publicly suggesting some kind of weird moral equivalence between U.S. and Chinese policy regarding Taiwan.

In interviews published on March 9 in Les Echos and Politico regarding Taiwan, Macron said, The worst thing would be to think that we Europeans must be followers and adapt ourselves to the American rhythm and a Chinese overreaction.

For Macron, somehow, U.S. policies that seek to arm Taiwan and deter a Chinese invasion are indistinguishable from the CCPs decades of preparation to invade and destroy Taiwans democracy, including putting masses of its democrats in concentration camps.

But Macron was not content with this outrageous suggestion of moral equivalence in service of Chinese propaganda.

Just as the Chinese regime began on April 8 its three days of large-scale military blockade exercises around Taiwan in preparation for an invasion, it became known that Macron was going to give the regime more weapons that it would use to invade Taiwan.

Specifically, during Macrons visit, it was announced that Airbus would sell China 50 of its new H160 helicopters.

A state-of-the-art eight-ton helicopter, the H160 features a composite material fuselage, advanced rotor design, and advanced glass cockpit, and can transport 12 passengers on a 530-mile round-trip.

They will be sold to a Shanghai-based leasing company that supports offshore oil platforms but will also add to Chinas civilian fleet of about 1,000 passenger transport helicopters.

A 2013 study by the Asian Sky Group stated that Airbus had built 40 percent of Chinas civil turbine-powered helicopters.

This relationship dates back to the 1970s sale of the SA 321 Super Frelon, with China having since coproduced several Aerospatiale, now Airbus, helicopter types that also aided the design of indigenous Chinese helicopters; the Super Frelon aided the design of the Peoples Liberation Army Ground Forces (PLAGF) new 27-troop carrying Change Z-18 helicopter.

Due to the CCPs intensive policies of military-civil-fusion, these helicopters can all be made available to the PLA and could effectively double the potential helicopter lift of the PLAGF, which has about 1,000 transport and attack helicopters.

So assuming PLAGF Air Assault forces can now access about 1,700 transport helicopters, strike packages of 280 helicopters, perhaps transporting at least 1,500 troopsand light all-terrain fighting vehicles, light artillery, missiles, and small dronesthese could be used to attack Taiwans six largest civilian airports.

Russian failures in Ukraine demonstrate the risks of deploying lightly armed heliborne Airborne forces to capture strategic airportswhen defenses are alert and ready.

Ukrainian service members ride a tank as Russias attack on Ukraine continues, near the front line city of Bakhmut, Ukraine, on April 10, 2023. (Oleksandr Klymenko/Reuters)

So the PLA likely will dispatch Special Forces and mobilize Fifth Columns in Taiwan to attack key personnel and forces responsible for airport security to delay a defensive response, seeking an assault with maximum surprise.

Should PLA forces take control of these airfields, PLA troops and supplies will come streaming in on some portion of the 4,000 airliners and cargo liners in Chinas civilian airlines, almost all made by Europes Airbus and the U.S. Boeing Company.

Boeing and Airbus airliners and Chinese airlines regularly participate in PLA mobility exercises of inter-regional troop movements and along with thousands of civilian roll-on-roll-off (RORO) barges and much larger ferries that would move most of the PLAs invasion forces to Taiwan.

Roughly 90 Boeing B747, B777, and B767 large cargo liners, and 86 medium B737 cargo liners in Chinese airlines offer about three times the aerial power projection capacity of the formal PLA Air Force.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Taiwans six largest airports could process 175,000 passengers daily. Still, with air superiority and the removal of customs procedures, the PLA may be able to move well over 200,000 troops a day to Taiwan on about 1,000 airliners.

Clearly, the Biden administration is not conveying strongly enough to the European public that a Chinese invasion and conquest of democratic Taiwan constitutes a direct threat to Europes security.

Beijing already subsidizes Moscows invasion of Ukraine by increasing purchases of Russian petroleum and resources and is apparently ready to begin sales of weapons to Russia that could revive its stalled offensive.

Chinese assistance for Russias bloody invasion of Ukraine would then affirm longstanding Chinese expectations that Russian forces will assist the CCPs invasion of Taiwan, but that will not be the end.

A Russian invasion of Poland or the Baltic states may implicate Russian expectation that Beijing will send full armored units and generous logistic support to invade the European allies, as Russia would then assist Chinese campaigns to take control of the South China Sea, neutralize the Philippines, and take over Japans Ryukyu Island Chain.

In all these Chinese and Russian war gambits, Airbus and Boeing transport aircraft could play a decisive logistic support role: they may help determine whether Taiwan, Japan, South Korea, the Philippines, and Europe will be dominated by brutal Chinese and Russian dictatorships.

As U.S. and European sanctions in response to Russias invasion of Ukraine have halted new sales of airliners to Russia, stopped the supply of spare parts, and barred the entry of Russian airliners to Europe and the United States, it simply makes no sense to wait for a Chinese invasion of Taiwan to impose the same sanctions on China.

Should the oft-mentioned U.S. intelligence estimate that the Chinese regime will not be ready enough to attempt its invasion until 2027 be realistic, then it may be possible to starve Chinese airlines of spare parts, potentially taking them out of the CCPs invasion of Taiwan and its subsequent wars.

To be sure, this move will be severely disruptive to Boeing and Airbus; the latter forecasts that China will need over 8,000 airliners over the next 20 years, so expect myopic leaders like Macron to fight sanctions that block the sale of airliners to China.

But if Europe balks, Washington must make clear that it will begin to restrict the sale of new Airbus airliners to the U.S. market, allowing only the continuation of spare parts and support to sustain safe operations.

It is an understatement to say that a series of Chinese and Russian wars will impose great sacrifices on Americans and Europeans.

There should be no hesitation to continue barring the sales of airliners to Russia and to halt the sale of airliners and helicopters to China to diminish their capacity to make war.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
French Publisher Arrested by UK Counterterror Police on Way to London Book Fair

Police Officers assist members of the public at the entrance to the Eurostar at St Pancras Station in London, on March 22, 2016. (Dan Kitwood/Getty Images)

A French publisher was arrested under the Terrorism Act as he arrived in the UK to attend the London Book Fair, his employer said.

Ernest Moret, who works as a foreign rights manager for the radical left-wing Editions La Fabrique, was detained by police after arriving from Paris at St Pancras railway station on Monday evening.

Two British police officers said Ernest had participated in anti-government demonstrations in France and detained him for questioning for suspected terror offences, his employer said.

The London Metropolitan Police said Moret was stopped by officers under the Terrorism Act and was arrested after he obstructed a police search.

Supporters have called for protests at the French Institute in London and the British embassy in Paris on Tuesday evening.

Masked protesters hold a French flag next to a burning news kiosk beside the Place de lOpera on the sidelines of a demonstration as part of a national day of strikes and protests in Paris on March 23, 2023. (Alain Jocard/AFP via Getty Images)

Anglo-French Complicity

In a joint statement with Verso Books, a radical left-wing publishing house with offices in London and New York, Morets employer said: On arrival at St Pancras Station, Ernest was pulled aside by police officers acting under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act 2000 and detained for questioning without a lawyer present, allegedly to determine whether he was engaged in terrorist acts or in possession of material for use in terrorism.

The police officers claimed that Ernest had participated in demonstrations in France as a justification for this acta quite remarkably inappropriate statement for a British police officer to make and which seems to clearly indicate complicity between French and British authorities on this matter.

It was demanded that he give up his phone and pass codes to the officers, with no justification or explanation offered. This morning, Ernest was formally arrested and transferred to a police station, accused of obstruction because of his refusal to give up his pass codes. He remains in police custody.

We consider these actions to be outrageous and unjustifiable infringements of basic principles of the freedom of expression and an example of the abuse of anti-terrorism laws.

We consider that this assault on the freedom of expression of a publisher is yet another manifestation of the slide towards repressive and authoritarian measures taken by the current French government in the face of widespread popular discontent and protest.

It is crucial for all defenders of basic democratic values to express in the strongest terms that we find this intolerable and outrageous.

Extraordinary

A protest will take place at the French Institute in South Kensington at 7 p.m., when people will call for French Ambassador Helene Duchene to request Morets release.

The National Union of Journalists senior books and magazines organiser Pamela Morton urged members to join the protest and said: It seems extraordinary that the British police have acted this way in using terrorism legislation to arrest the publisher who was on legitimate business here for the London Book Fair.

A Metropolitan Police spokesperson said: At around 1930hrs on Monday April 17, a 28-year-old man was stopped by ports officers as he arrived at St Pancras station, using powers under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act 2000.

On Tuesday April 18, the man was subsequently arrested on suspicion of wilfully obstructing a Schedule 7 examination (contrary to section 18 of the Terrorism Act 2000). The man remains in custody.

Inquiries continue.

French Pension Protests

Protests against the flagship reform of President Emmanuel Macrons second term, which raises the retirement age from 62 to 64, began in mid-January and have coalesced widespread anger against the president.

The street protests have become increasingly violent since the government pushed the pension legislation through parliament without a final vote due to a lack of support among lawmakers.

Union leaders and protesters said the only way out of the crisis was for the legislation to be scrapped, an option that the government has repeatedly rejected.

A photo of a television screen shows French President Emmanuel Macron during a televised address to the nation, made from the Elysee Palace in Paris on April 17, 2023. (Ludovic Marin/AFP via Getty Images)

Macron said Monday that he heard peoples anger, but insisted that it was needed to keep the pension system afloat as the population ages.

In his speech, Macron said these changes were needed to guarantee everyones pension, after he enacted the law on Saturday. They represent an effort, thats true.

Gradually working more means also producing more wealth for our whole country, he added.

He announced negotiations in the coming months about key issues like improving employees income, pushing professional careers forward, better wealth-sharing, and improving working conditions, including for older workers.

Labor unions that have been at the forefront of protests, mobilizing millions of marchers in 12 days of nationwide demonstrations and strikes since January, are vowing to fight on. They called for another mass protest on May 1, which is International Workers Day.

PA Media, Reuters, and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Hacking Humanity: Transhumanism

Commentary

This piece is an excerpt from The Great Reset and the Struggle for Liberty.

The notion that the world can be replicated and replaced by a simulated reality says a great deal about the beliefs of those who promote the metaverse [treated in the previous chapter]. The conception is materialist and mechanistic at base, the hallmarks of social engineering. It represents the world as consisting of nothing but manipulable matter, or rather, of digital media mimicking matter. It suggests that human beings can be reduced to a material substratum and can be induced to accept a technological reproduction in lieu of reality. Further, it assumes that those who inhabit this simulacrum can be controlled by technocratic means. Such a materialist, mechanistic, techno-determinist, and reductionist worldview is consistent with the transhumanist belief that humans themselves will soon be succeeded by a new transhuman species, or humanity-plus (h+)perhaps a genetically and AI-enhanced cyborg that will outstrip ordinary humans and make the latter virtually obsolete.

The term transhumanism was coined by Julian Huxley, the brother of the novelist Aldous Huxley and the first director-general of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). In an essay entitled Transhumanism, published in the book New Bottles for New Wine (1957), Huxley defined transhumanism as the self-transcendence of humanity:

The human species can, if it wishes, transcend itselfnot just sporadically, an individual here in one way, an individual there in another way, but in its entirety, as humanity. We need a name for this new belief. Perhaps transhumanism will serve: man remaining man, but transcending himself, by realizing new possibilities of and for his human nature.[1]

One question for transhumanism is indeed whether this transcendence will apply to the whole human species or rather for only a select part of it. But Huxley gave some indication of how this human self-transcendence might occur: humanity would become managing director of the biggest business of all, the business of evolution [2] As the first epigraph to this Part makes clear, Julian Huxley was a proponent of eugenics. And he was the President of the British Eugenics Society.[3] It was in his introduction of UNESCO, as the director-general that he suggested that eugenics, after the Nazi regime had given it such a bad name, should be rescued from opprobrium, so that much that now is unthinkable may at least become thinkable.[4] As John Klyczek has noted, In the wake of vehement public backlash against the atrocities of the Nazi eugenic Holocaust, Huxleys eugenics proper was forced to go under-ground, repackaging itself in various crypto-eugenic disguises, one of which is transhumanism. Transhumanism, Klyczek suggests, is the scientific postulate that human evolution through biological-genetic selection has been largely superseded by a symbiotic evolution that cybernetically merges the human species with its own technological handiwork.[5]

Contemporary transhumanist enthusiasts, such as Simon Young, believe that humanity can take over where evolution has left us to create a new and improved specieseither ourselves, or a successor to ourselves:

We stand at a turning point in human evolution. We have cracked the genetic code; translated the Book of Life. We will soon possess the ability to become designers of our own evolution.[6]

In A History of Transhumanist Thought, Nick Bostrom details the lineage of transhumanist thought from its prehistory to the present and shows how transhumanism became wedded to the fields of genomics, nanotechnology, and robotics (GNR), where robotics is inclusive of Artificial Intelligence (AI).[7] It is the last of these fields that primarily concerns us here. The transhumanist project has since envisioned the transcendence of humanity via technological means. In the past thirty years, this technological transcendence has been figured as the singularity.

Vernor Vinge, the mathematician, computer scientist, and science fiction author introduced the notion of the technological singularity in 1993.[8] The singularity, Vinge suggested, is the near-future point at which machine intelligence will presumably supersede human intelligence. Vinge boldly declared: Within thirty years, we will have the technological means to create superhuman intelligence. Shortly after, the human era will be ended.[9] Vinge predicted that the singularity would be reached no later than, you guessed it, 2030. The question Vinge addressed was whether, and if so, how, the human species might survive the coming singularity.

The inventor, futurist, and now Google Engineering Director Raymond Kurzweil has since welcomed the technological singularity as a boon to humanity. Kurzweil, whose books include The Age of Spiritual Machines (1999), The Singularity Is Near (2005), and How to Create a Mind (2012), suggests that by 2029, technologists will have successfully reverse-engineered the brain and replicated human intelligence in (strong) AI while vastly increasing processing speeds of thought. Having mapped the neuronal components of a human brain, or discovered the algorithms for thought, or a combination thereof, technologists will convert the same to a computer program, personality and all, and upload it to a computer host, thus grasping the holy grail of immortality. Finally, as the intelligence explosion expands from the singularity, all matter will be permeated with data, with intelligence; the entire universe will wake up and become alive, and about as close to God as I can imagine, writes Kurzweil.[10]

Thus, in a complete reversal of the Biblical creation narrative, Kurzweil posits a dumb universe that begins with a cosmic singularity (the Big Bang) and becomes God by a technological singularity. This second singularity, Kurzweil suggests, involves the universe becoming self-aware, vis-a-vis the informational, technological agent, humanity. Thus, in the technological singularity, the technological and the cosmic converge, as Kurzweil resembles a techno-cosmic Hegelian. (Hegel figured collective human self-consciousness progressing in self-actualization and self-realization, finally becoming and recognizing itself as God, through the State [as] the march of God in the world.[11]) Incidentally, according to Kurzweil, our post-human successors will bear the marks of their human provenance. Thus, the future intelligence will remain human in some sense. Human beings are the carriers of universal intelligence and human technology is the substratum by which intelligence will be infinitely expanded and universalized.

More recently, Yuval Noah Hararithe Israeli historian, World Economic Forum (WEF)-affiliated futurist, and advisor to Klaus Schwabhas also hailed this singularity, although with dire predictions for the vast majority. According to Harari, the 4-IR will have two main consequences: human bodies and minds will be replaced by robots and AI, while human brains become hackable with nanorobotic brain-cloud interfaces (B/CIs), AI, and biometric surveillance technologies. Just as humans are functionally replaced, that is, they will be subject to the total control of powerful corporations or the state (or, whats more likely, a hybrid thereof, a neo-fascist state). Rather than a decentralized, open-access infosphere of exploding intelligence available to all, Singularitarian technologies will become part of the arsenal for domination. The supersession of human intelligence by machine intelligence will involve the use of such data and data processing capabilities to further predict and control social behavioral patterns of the global population. In addition, the biotechnical enhancement of the few will serve to exacerbate an already wide gulf between the elite and the majority, while the superiority of the enhanced functions ideologically to rationalize differences permitted by such a division. That is, Harari suggests that if developments proceed as Vinge and Kurzweil predict, this vastly accelerated information-collecting and processing sphere will not constitute real knowledge for the enlightenment of the vast majority. Rather, it will be instrumentalist and reductionist in the extreme, facilitating the domination of human beings on a global scale, while rendering opposition impossible.

In an article in Frontiers in Neuroscience, Nuno R.B. Martins et al. explain just how such control could be implemented through B/CIs, which the authors claim will be feasible within the next 20 to 30 years:

Neuralnanorobotics may also enable a B/CI with controlled connectivity between neural activity and external data storage and processing, via the direct monitoring of the brains ~86 x 109 neurons and ~2 x 1014 synapses 

They would then wirelessly transmit up to ~6 x 1016 bits per second of synaptically processed and encoded humanbrain electrical information via auxiliary nanorobotic fiber optics (30 cm3) with the capacity to handle up to 1018 bits/sec and provide rapid data transfer to a cloud-based supercomputer for real-time brain-state monitoring and data extraction. A neuralnanorobotically enabled human B/CI might serve as a personalized conduit, allowing persons to obtain direct, instantaneous access to virtually any facet of cumulative human knowledge (emphasis mine).[12]

Such interfaces have already reached the commercialization stage with Elon Musks Neuralink,[13] Kernel,[14] and through DARPA,[15] among others.

When neuralnanorobotic technologies that conduct information and algorithms that make decisions interface with the brain, the possibilities for eliminating particular kinds of experiences, behaviors, and thoughts becomes possible. Such control of the mind through implants was already prototyped by Jose Delgado as early as 1969. Now, two-way transmission of data between the brain and the cloud effectively means the possibility of reading the thoughts of subjects, interrupting such thoughts, and replacing them with other, machine-cloud-originating information. The desideratum to record, label, informationalize, rather than to understand, let alone critically engage or theorize experience will take exclusive priority for subjects, given the possibilities for controlling neuronal switching patterns. Given the instrumentalism of the Singularitariansor, as Yuval Harari has called them, the Dataistsdecisive, action-oriented algorithms will dominate these brain-cloud interfaces, precluding faculties for the critical evaluation of activity, and obliterating free will.[16] Given enough data, algorithms will be better able to make decisions for us. Nevertheless, they will have been based on intelligence defined in a particular way and put to particular ends, placing considerable emphasis on the speed and volume of data processing and decision-making based on data construed as knowledge. Naturally, Aldous Huxleys Brave New World comes to mind. Yet, unlike Huxleys mind-numbing soma, brain-cloud interfaces will have an ideological appeal to the masses; they are touted as enhancements, as vast improvements over standard human intelligence.

Harari peels back the curtain masking transhumanisms Wizard of Oz promises, suggesting that even before the singularity, robotics and machine intelligence will make the masses into a new useless class.[17] Given the exorbitant cost of entry, only the elite will be able to afford actual enhancements, making them a new, superior speciesnotwithstanding the claim that Moores Law closes the technological breach by exponentially increasing the price-performance of computing and thus halving its cost per unit of measurement every two years or less. How the elite will maintain exclusive control over enhancements and yet subject the masses to control technologies is never addressed. But perhaps a kill switch could be implemented such that the elite will not be subjected to brain-data miningunless one runs afoul of the agenda, in which case brain-data mining could be (re)enabled.

In a 2018 WEF statement, Harari spoke as the self-proclaimed prophet of a new transhumanist age, saying:

We are probably among the last generations of homo sapiens. Within a century or two, Earth will be dominated by entities that are more different from us, than we are different from Neanderthals or from chimpanzees. Because in the coming generations, we will learn how to engineer bodies and brains and minds. These will be the main products of the 21st century economy (emphasis mine).[18]

No longer capable of mounting a challenge to the elite as in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, and having no function, the feckless masses will have no recourse or purpose. Exploitation is one thing; irrelevance is quite another, says Harari. And thus, as Harari sees it, the remaining majority will be condemned to spend their time in the metaverse, or worse. If they are lucky, they will collect universal basic income (UBI) and will best occupy themselves by taking drugs and playing video games. Of course, Harari exempts himself from this fate.

As for the elite, according to Harari, their supposed superiority to the masses will soon become a matter of biotechnological fact, rather than merely an ideological pretension, as in the past. The elite will not only continue to control the lions share of the worlds material resources; they will also become godlike and enjoy effective remote control over their subordinates. Further, via biotechnological means, they will acquire eternal life on Earth, while the majority, formerly consoled by the fact that at least everybody dies, will now lose the great equalizer. As the supernatural is outmoded, or sacrificed on the altar of transhumanism, the majority will inevitably forfeit their belief in a spiritual afterlife. The theistic religions that originated in the Middle East will disappear, to be replaced by new cyber-based religions originating in Silicon Valley. Spirituality, that is, will be nothing but the expression of reverence for newly created silicon gods, whether they be game characters, game designers, or the elites themselves.

Hararis pronouncements may amount to intentional hyperbole to make a point, but his statements are remarkable for the cynicism and disdain for humanity they betray. They are revelatory of the unmitigated gall of believers in the transhuman future. Coupled with the neo-Malthusian impulses of the elite, centered around the U.N. and the WEF, a picture emerges of an elite whose objective is to reduce the population of useless eaters, while keeping the remainder in their thrall.

References

1. Julian Huxley, Transhumanism, New Bottles for New Wine, London: Readers Union, Chatto & Windus, 1957, page 17.

2. Ibid., page 13.

3. Past Presidents, Adelphi Genetics Forum, August 10, 2022, https://adelphigenetics.org/history/past-presidents/. The Adelphi Genetics Forum was originally named the British Eugenics Education Society and was founded in 1911. It changed its name to the British Eugenics Society in 1926 and changed its name again to the Galton Institute in 1989. In 2021, it changed its name yet again to the Adelphi Genetics Forum.

4. Julian Huxley, UNESCO: Its Purpose and Its Philosophy, Unesdoc.unesco.org, 1946, https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000068197, page 21.

5. John Adam Klyczek, School World Order: The Technocratic Globalization of Corporatized Education, Trine Day, 2019, page 207.

6. Simon Young, Designer Evolution: A Transhumanist Manifesto, Prometheus, 2005, Kindle Edition, Location 273.

7. Nick Bostrom, A History of Transhumanist Thought, in Michael Rectenwald and Lisa Carl, eds., Academic Writing Across the Disciplines, New York: Pearson Longman, 2011.

8. Vernor Vinge, The Coming Technological Singularity: How to Survive in the Post-Human ERANASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS), NASA, March 30, 1993, https://ntrs.nasa.gov/citations/19940022856.

9. Ibid., page 11.

10. Ray Kurzweil, The Singularity Is Near, Penguin Publishing Group, page 375.

11. Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel, Elements of the Philosophy of Right, trans. S. W. Dyde, London: George Bell and Sons, 1896, page 247.

12. Nuno R. B. Martins, Amara Angelica, Krishnan Chakravarthy, Yuriy Svidinenko, Frank J. Boehm, Ioan Opris, Mikhail A. Lebedev, et al., Human Brain/Cloud Interface, Frontiers in Neuroscience13 (March 29, 2019), https://doi.org/10.3389/fnins.2019.00112, no page numbers.

13. Home, Neuralink, accessed September 26, 2022, https://neuralink.com/.

14. Home, Kernel, accessed September 26, 2022, https://www.kernel.com/.

15. a.b. Staff, E&T editorial, DARPA Funds Brain-Machine Interface Project for Controlling Weapons via Thoughts, RSS, May 23, 2019, https://eandt.theiet.org/content/articles/2019/05/darpa-funds-brain-machine-interface-project-for-controlling-weapons-via-thoughts/.

16. Yuval Noah Harari, Yuval Noah Harari on Big Data, Google and the End of Free Will, Financial Times, August 26, 2016, https://www.ft.com/content/50bb4830-6a4c-11e6-ae5b-a7cc5dd5a28c.

17. Yuval Noah Harari, The Rise of the Useless Class, ideas.ted.com, February 24, 2017, https://ideas.ted.com/the-rise-of-the-use-less-class/.

18. World Economic Forum, Will the Future Be Human?Yuval Noah Harari, YouTube, World Economic Forum, January 25, 2018, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hL9uk4hKyg4.

From Mises.org

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Hawley Accuses Mayorkas of Failing to Stop the Trafficking of Minors Across the Border

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)

Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) says tens of thousands of children illegally trafficked across the U.S.Mexico border are being forced into labor on American soil.

The senator accused Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas of allowing migrant minors to enter the country illegally and claimed that he has been pressuring agencies to bypass the vetting process for these children for political reasons.

Hawley made the accusations during an April 18 hearing before the Senate Committee on Homeland Security.

The senator cited a report by The New York Times, which asserted that Mayorkas has allegedly eased vetting restrictions in order to expedite the process.

You have at every stage facilitated this modern-day indentured servitude of minor children, Hawley said. Why should you not be impeached for this?

Senator, I look forward to discussing this issue further because you are misstating the facts so terribly, the DHS secretary began before Hawley cut in.

I am reading you the facts from articles in the news, and your usual modus operandi, which you are doing again today  is to deny, deny, deny.

Why have you permitted 345,000 children to come into this country unaccompanied? Hawley asked. Why have you permitted thousands of them to be abused and exploited?

According to Mayorkas, it is stunning that Hawley had previously acknowledged the efforts of former President Donald Trumps administration in reuniting migrant families that were separated due to his current comments.

Hawley responded by accusing Mayorkas of shifting the blame onto the previous administration for the ongoing challenges faced by migrant children in the United States.

A moment ago, you were crowing about how you treat children so well, and yet we find tens of thousands of children who are forced to work as slaves because of your policies and you turn around and blame a prior administration, Hawley said.

Mr. Secretary, this is par for the course for you. You do it every time you appear before this committee; you do it every time you appear before Congress.

I, for one, am sick and tired of it, and thousands of children are in physical dangerdangerbecause of what you are doing.

You shouldve resigned long ago. And if you cannot change course, you should be removed from office.

During his opening comments, Mayorkas said his department was proposing that an additional $4.7 billion be added to their budget as part of an emergency designated funding for a Southwest Border Contingency Fund to provide additional resources to DHS in the event of increased migration.

Mayorkas listed several possible uses for the funds, including soft-sided facilities, transportation of migrants, medical support, surge staffing, immigration detention beds, Alternatives to Detention, and the Shelter and Services Grant Program.

He explained, When the specified encounter rates have been met, the department will notify this committee of its intent to use the resources made available through this fund.
In this series, we evaluate some of the lesser-known yet common adverse events that are appearing in the research literature as well as in doctors clinics and, more importantly, how to deal with them and reduce the risks.

I cant be stuck with this forever. Im gonna lose my mind, Mary thought, distressed.

Despite her thoughts, the dull ringing in her ears persisted like an alarm clock that couldnt be silenced, mowing down her concentration.

Marys tinnitus started an hour after she received her first Pfizer COVID-19 dose in the summer of 2021. She immediately contacted the pharmacy where she was vaccinated, and they told her that tinnitus wasnt a side effect of the COVID-19 vaccine.

Yet a search on Google showed that many people were discussing this condition in forums. Some were severely crippled by the condition. A close physician relative told Mary to go on steroid therapy immediately to reverse tinnitus, but her symptoms didnt improve.

I complained about it so much in the beginning, Mary, who declined to disclose her last name, told The Epoch Times over the phone, especially in the first couple of weeks.

I cried. I broke down.

Apart from the grim reality that her tinnitus would likely be permanent, another worry Mary had was whether she should get her second primary dose so that she would be fully vaccinated. She was worried that the additional dose would make it worse, and she also feared that she would be forced into it.

Despite her distress, Mary found that she couldnt openly discuss her concerns with her health providers, friends, and family.

I felt comfortable saying that I had tinnitus, but I was afraid to tell people that it started an hour after the vaccine.  I didnt want people to think that Im an anti-vaxxer, she said.

But its my own experience, and the fact that I was afraid to say that is really sad.

Do COVID-19 Vaccines Cause Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is the presence of ringing sounds in the absence of sound. Recent research suggests that tinnitus is mostly neurological, although how and why it occurs is still a mystery.

Factors such as old age, exposure to loud sounds, nutrition deficiencies, autoimmune diseases, infections, and ear diseases are all commonly related to it.

Symptoms related to tinnitus include hearing loss, as well as hyperacusis where sounds in the environment may seem excessively loud or unbearable.

Mary Kelley, a nurse, developed hearing loss and then tinnitus after the second and third doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. She was part of the first wave of vaccinations among health care workers and had taken her second primary dose by January 2021.

Within the next several months, Kelley had trouble hearing people at various times. She recalled how her coworkers and family joked, Mary, you are deaf!

When boosters were mandated, Kelley took the third dose in February 2022, and within hours, tinnitus that sounded like fire alarms manifested in her right ear.

Kelley said she was able to block the tinnitus from her thoughts, saying that hearing loss has a greater effect on her work than the tinnitus. But some people find the noise to be very debilitating as they lose concentration and sleep.

COVID-19 mRNA vaccines have been linked to tinnitus, although its still undetermined whether the association is causal or coincidental. The Epoch Times exclusive reporting revealed that the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has already detected tinnitus as a safety signal among hundreds of safety signals following mRNA vaccination.

A study published in the journal Laryngoscope analyzed nearly 2.6 million individuals through electronic health record data and found that for people who were never diagnosed with tinnitus previously, 0.038 percent of them would develop tinnitus following administration of a single COVID-19 mRNA vaccine dose. Compared to the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccines, other vaccines for influenza and DTaP, as well as the pneumococcal vaccine, had a higher risk of tinnitus.

Infections with COVID-19 have also been linked to tinnitus, with one study finding that more than 20 percent of individuals develop tinnitus.

Tinnitus researcher and University of Arizona associate professor of neuroscience and physiology Shaowen Bao told ABC15 that post-vaccine tinnitus may be related to inflammation due to the immune response triggered by the mRNA vaccines. Nevertheless, other mechanisms may also be involved.

The vaccines trigger autoimmune reactions by forcing healthy cells to produce viral proteins, prompting the immune system to attack these cells.

Tinnitus has been linked to autoimmune diseases that damage the nerves, including Alzheimers and Parkinsons, as well as diseases that dont affect the nerves, such as lupus and Crohns disease.

Similarly, the spike proteins in the COVID-19 vaccines are prone to causing microclotting. Microclots can make the blood more viscous, slowing down blood flow, thereby reducing oxygen exchange in the blood and leading to stress on the nerves and cells in the ears.

More than 17,000 cases of tinnitus have been reported on the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) in relation to COVID-19 vaccines, making up more than 80 percent of all tinnitus reports in the entire VAERS system.

However, the real numbers may be even higher, not only because reports to the VAERS system are significantly underreported but also because tinnitus tends to be underreported in the general population.

Postvaccine tinnitus most definitely has been underreported, Jackie Clark, audiologist and professor at the University of Texas, told The Epoch Times. Outside of vaccinations, there are a lot of people that just say, Oh, I thought that that was just normal.'

Some people are less observant of the changes in their bodies and wouldnt even take notice of their tinnitus.

Clark noted that among her audiology students and patients at the Callier Center for Communication Disorders, she has seen fewer cases of tinnitus in people experiencing symptoms postvaccination compared to post-COVID infection.

No Promised Recovery for Tinnitus

Clark warns that theres no known cure for tinnitus and that many people are best served by finding a way to comfortably live with it.

Since tinnitus becomes the most prominent in a quiet setting, some people have found that if they play soft music or introduce light noises into their environment, their mind moves off tinnitus. Wearing hearing aids can help those with both hearing loss and tinnitus by increasing sounds in the background to cancel out the tinnitus.

These tips have helped some people whose tinnitus isnt that severe.

Tinnitus has been the bane of medicine forever between otolaryngologists and neurologists, neurologist Dr. Robert Lowry, an expert in brain concussions, told The Epoch Times. Nobody ever knows what to do with it.

Nevertheless, some studies suggest that the intervention of therapies that correct underlying health problems may also resolve tinnitus.

Some studies found that correcting B-group vitamin deficiencies reduced tinnitus severity for some people. Oxytocin nasal sprays, which allow immediate nerve stimulation, have been shown to help with tinnitus. This therapy isnt suitable for pregnant women.

Neurologist Dr. Diane Counce said another treatment shes currently looking into is noninvasive brain stimulation, which has also been shown to improve tinnitus. However, this therapy is very expensive, and since it isnt approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for treating tinnitus, insurance may not cover it.

Similarly, surgery and antidepressants have also shown limited benefits.

Treatments Target Underlying Mechanisms

Given that postvaccine tinnitus may be due to various causes, Counce looks at the symptoms that accompany tinnitus to determine the root cause of the condition.

For example, tinnitus associated with shortness of breath and exercise intolerance may be an indication that the persons oxygen levels are low due to microclotting. Therefore, blood thinners such as aspirin, with nattokinase and serrapeptase supplements, would be recommended for that patients treatment.

For patients who have signs of autoimmunity such as nerve damage, an intravenous infusion of antibodies may be the prescribed treatment.

Board-certified internist Dr. Syed Haider said he generally starts his patients on ivermectin. He recounted that he originally had a patient whose tinnitus was so severe that he contemplated suicide. However, after Haider put him on ivermectin, his tinnitus disappeared.

Haider also created his own supplement protocol that he recommends for both long-haul and postvaccine patients, which includes various natural herb extracts, vitamins, minerals, and other supplements. Each of these helps correct various health problems, including tinnitus.

Haider said some patients respond to the first supplement they try, while others try several supplements to find the one that works best for them. Some only respond when the therapeutic is given in a high dose.

Ganglion blocks, which are usually injections that block pain, have also resulted in a complete reversal of tinnitus in some patients, Haider said. This may be because the therapy blocks off the sympathetic nervous system and therefore enables the body to rest and recover.

Nevertheless, Clark cautioned against treatment therapies that promise a definite cure, noting that treatments that guarantee the highest chances of success have been behavioral modification therapies that involve a person simply getting used to tinnitus.

Vaccinated People Suffering Alone

Mary has since joined an online tinnitus support group for those who are vaccine-injured.

Finding people who have been suffering for the same reason has allowed Mary to accept her vaccine injury and move forward with her life.

After reading stories shared by other people who are far more debilitated by tinnitus, Mary said shes very thankful that her tinnitus has been bearable.

Shes also in another support group for both long-haul and vaccine-injured people.

Mary expressed that while long-COVID patients are also suffering from their condition and the lack of research, their experiences are validated and acknowledged, while adverse events due to the vaccines may be dismissed as being rare.

The people suffering with vaccine injury, theyre suffering alone in a lot of cases, Mary said. Even if a vaccine adverse event is really rare, that doesnt mean that we need to dismiss it. It still warrants acknowledgment, validation, research, support, and help.

Next: Three days postvaccine, former Pussycat Dolls member Jessica Sutta woke up to the most excruciating muscle spasms that were unlike anything she had ever experienced, she recalled.

Previously: New Hampshire state Rep. Mike Belcher, a Republican, has been suffering from ocular migraines for almost two years. He took his first Pfizer COVID-19 mRNA immunization in April 2021, and things havent been the same since.
This photo taken on April 13, 2023 shows a researcher adjusting a vacuum test device for micro-pixel-level star distance measurement technology in Beijing, capital of China. (Purple Mountain Observatory, Chinese Academy of Sciences/Handout via Xinhua)

by Xinhua writers Wang Chenxi, Yu Fei

BEIJING, April 18 (Xinhua) -- Chinese scientists have proposed a unique exploration program named the Closeby Habitable Exoplanet Survey (CHES) to search for habitable planets from "near neighbors" of the solar system.

In this program, a 1.2-meter-aperture telescope will be sent into a Halo orbit at the second Lagrangian point of the Sun-Earth system. With the help of high-precision astrometry, it will survey about 100 Sun-like stars within 32 light years away from the solar system, and detect the number, planetary mass, and 3D orbits of the nearby planets.

"So far, we have conducted a series of preliminary studies and made great progress," said CHES principal investigator Ji Jianghui in a recent interview with Xinhua.

According to Ji, who is also a research professor at the Purple Mountain Observatory of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), the researchers have completed demonstrations of scientific objectives and key technologies, and developed a 1:6 scale prototype of the telescope.

They have also developed a method to correct image distortion, and the satellite control method with high stability and high pointing accuracy, and tested the micro-pixel-level measurement technology of star relative positions in the vacuum environment, which laid a solid foundation for the space exploration of Earth-like planets in the habitable zone.

The scientific communities both at home and abroad have reached a consensus that the search for the nearby habitable planets is an important frontier issue, according to Wu Ji, president of the Chinese Society of Space Research, former director of the National Space Science Center of the CAS.

What scientists call "nearby" is on a cosmic scale. It means a star along with its planets are within dozens of light years away from our solar system.

Most of the host stars of the terrestrial planet discovered in the habitable zone are not Sun-like stars, but red dwarfs with flares producing strong radiation, which is not suitable for the survival of life, said Wu, adding that scientists are more concerned about the nearby, Sun-like stars that harbor potentially habitable Earth-like planets.

The search is not easy. At present, 70 percent of discovered exoplanets are spotted by the transit method. The principle of the transit method is that when orbiting planets cross in front of a star once per orbit, the brightness of the star will be dimmed periodically.

The transit method requires the planet to move in front of its star with edge-on orbits. However, the probability of such a scenario is very low, and the discovery of planetary candidates will need further confirmation via other methods from the very large ground-based telescopes. It only retrieves the radius of planets, but cannot directly measure the mass of planets.

The team from the Purple Mountain Observatory, led by Ji, put forward an innovative method.

This method uses astrometry to accurately measure the relative position change of the target star with respect to 6 to 8 distant reference stars in the micro-arcsecond-level scale, thus evaluating the tiny wobble of the target star caused by the gravitational disturbance from its orbiting planets, and detecting Earth-like planets in the habitable zone around the nearby Sun-like stars.

Ji explained that this method is not limited by the planet's orbital plane, so it can be used to conduct a comprehensive survey of habitable worlds around nearby Sun-like stars.

"If the so-called Earth 2.0 can be detected around the neighboring Sun-like stars, it will be easier for scientists to further investigate, and it will be a great discovery," said Wu. 

The diagram drawn in June 2022 illustrates the goal of the Closeby Habitable Exoplanet Survey (CHES) program. (Purple Mountain Observatory, Chinese Academy of Sciences/Handout via Xinhua)
Here Come the Higgins Copycats

Brittany Higgins arrives to give evidence in front of an ACT Supreme Court jury in Canberra, Australia, on Oct. 6, 2022. (Martin Ollman/Getty Images)

Commentary

While our country recovers from the COVID lockdown years, across Australia there are thousands of families who look back to 2021 as the start of a very different nightmarethe year their sons were accused of sexual assault.

This is the legacy of the media hype around Brittany Higgins.

Theres a flood of copycat cases working their way through our justice system, demanding massive police and judicial resources, often for dubious cases that should never have ended up in court.

A huge wave of women came forward in early 2021 claiming to be victims of sexual assault. The New South Wales (NSW) Bureau of Crime Statistics reported that in March 2021, NSW police recorded the highest-ever spike in sexual assaults, an astonishing 59 percent increase from the monthly average in the previous year.

That was just over a month after Higgins appeared on national television with Lisa Wilkinson who celebrated her bravery in accusing Bruce Lehrmann of rape.

It was a few weeks after Higgins spoke at the Womens March 4 Justice and Chanel Cantos started her Instagram petition gathering anonymous claims of sexual assault from Australian schoolgirls.

Managers of a sexual assault phone line were thrilled at the huge national response their hotline was receiving: Its like the floodgates have been opened, said Melonie Sheehan, reporting over 20,000 calls in February, and 5,000 more calls in the first week of March.

Two years later, all those eager survivors are seeing their cases finally hitting courts, joined by a steady stream of other young women keen to have their moment.

Protesters attend the Womens March 4 Justice Rally in Canberra, Australia, on March 15, 2021. (Jamila Toderas/Getty Images)

No doubt these include many genuine cases where victims deserve justice. Given how badly rape victims were treated in the past, many of the changes to our justice system encouraging these women to come forward are to be applauded.

Yet, what we rarely hear about is how women exploiting the believe women mantra are prevailing in our justice system after manufacturing stories to destroy men.

Their reasons are many, including revenge sex against lovers who have let them down, or a cover-up for cringe moments where they get caught out having sex with the wrong man.

Jumping on the Bandwagon

An absolute classic played out in the ACT Supreme Court last week. Alexander Matters has just been found not guilty in a unanimous decision by a Canberra jury, after only five to six hours of deliberation.

The accuser was revealed, in the words of Alexs barrister as unreliable and unresponsive, her evidence full of lies and inconsistencies which was exposed in court.

This Higgins Wannabee didnt further the feminist cause at allhence the stony silence from most of our media.

When the alleged rape happened, Alexander Matters was a law student at the Australian National University (ANU) who started a friends with benefits relationship with a student activist (Ms. Advocate), a young woman with an official role advocating for rape victims.

The couple had regular hook-ups for four months before the alleged rape took place in May 2021.

Then, in September, Ms. Advocate discovered Matters had been charged with sexual assault following an accusation by another womana case ultimately dropped by prosecutors.

Activists participate in the Womens March Los Angeles 2018 in Calif., on Jan. 20, 2018. (Sarah Morris/Getty Images)

Ms. Advocate faced a dilemma. As Matters barrister, Steven Whybrow S.C. suggested in court, it wasnt a good look for a student womens advocate to be known to be sleeping with someone alleged to be a rapist.

Sure enough, within days, Ms. Advocate was reporting a rape to the police. She alleged that, back in May, on one occasion when they had sex, Matters hadnt stopped exactly when she asked him to and that it was so rough it had left her bloody and bruised for days.

Before reporting to the police, Ms. Advocate discussed via text with friends whether this amounted to sexual assault.

I think I might have been raped too. I dont know, she told her godmother.

As the judge pointed out in his summing up, Ms. Advocate was an over-sharer and it was her phone messages which ultimately brought her undone.

It was revealed in court that within 24 hours of the alleged rape, shed sent Matters an audio message saying, [Expletive] me, Daddy? and another saying, I want you to [expletive] me so hard.

For months, she continued having sex with him, complaining to her friends that she couldnt help herself.

Bro, I keep sleeping with Alex, what the [expletive] is wrong with me, she asked one friend.

People (Women Included) Lie

Despite the prosecutors best efforts to play up the rough, forceful sex, the forensic evidence of a bloody blanket proved unconvincing.

Her claim to police that after the alleged rape she had cried, had a shower, and gone to sleep was proved in court to be a lie. Shed been busily texting friends for hours about other relationships.

A woman uses her mobile phone at Chkalovskaya metro station in Moscow on Oct. 12, 2020. (Natalia Kolesnikova/AFP via Getty Images)

And within hours, despite grumbling to Matters via text that, It still hurts. You really went for it, by that evening she was suggesting: Surely we [expletive] again?

Theres a lesson here for all the good folks convinced that the new sexual consent training will keep men out of trouble. They believe that by being required to seek affirmative consent, men will protect themselves from claims of imposing their will on a woman.

Oh, yeah?

That assumes women wont turn around and lie about what happened. Law student Alexander Matters, like all ANU students, was a graduate of the universitys compulsory sexual consent training. He was the very model of woke manhood.

During their very first time, she became upset, he stopped, and he comforted herand they did not continue. Party line perfect.

Every time he wanted to make a move, he first asked her permission. If she said no, he moved on. If she agreed, he proceeded. Exemplary behaviour.

Then, Ms. Advocate claimed, he slipped up. He allegedly failed to stop as soon as she said so, continuing for just moments longer before stopping. But soon, he was back to model behaviour.

The simple fact is that even if men do the right thing every step of the way, women can lie about what happened. In this culture, simply because they are women they may well be believed.

So far we are not seeing any surge in men being found guilty of sexual assault in our courts, despite an overall 13 percent national increase in reports in 2021with a 53 percent bump in Tasmania and 35 percent in Queensland.

Our juries are doing their job, looking at the evidence and judging the cases accordingly.

But as the wave of Higgins Wannabees hits our courts, well see whether hung juries become more common as juries become ideological battlegrounds between feminist warriors and ordinary folk.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Horse Rescued Following 100-Foot Fall Down San Diego Hillside

Emergency crews and animal-welfare workers rescued eight-year-old Dobby that slipped and fell off a trail near state Route 94 in the eastern San Diego County back country on April, 17, 2023. (Courtesy of San Diego Humane Society)

JAMUL, Calif.Emergency crews and animal-welfare workers April 17 rescued a horse that tumbled about 100 feet down a steep slope in the eastern San Diego County back country, and then had to spend the night injured in a remote ravine.

Eight-year-old Dobby slipped and fell off a trail near state Route 94 and Honey Springs Road shortly after 6 p.m. Sunday as his owners daughter was riding him with a group of companions aboard horses and a mule in the Hollenbeck Canyon area of Jamul, according to Cal Fire and the San Diego Humane Society.

Dobbys rider was able to jump off of him, suffering only minor cuts and bruises, as he went over the edge of the rugged embankment, said Brent Pascua, a fire captain with the state agency.

While emergency personnel were en route, the injured horses owner made her way down to him and tried to stop his bleeding with padding material she removed from her riding helmet, Humane Society spokeswoman Nina Thompson said.

The horse, Dobby, suffered leg injuries after he slipped and fell off a trail near state Route 94 in the eastern San Diego County back country on April, 17, 2023. (Courtesy of San Diego Humane Society)

When firefighters got to Dobbywho had suffered lacerations to his belly and cuts, including one down to the bone, on two of his legsthey replaced the makeshift dressings with pressure bandages.

After responding to the emergency along with Cal Fire and the county Department of Animal Services, eight members of the humane societys Emergency Response Team hiked down the hillside to the spot where Dobby had wound up, a trek of about five miles.

Finding the ailing horse stranded on the brushy slope above a creek bed, they walked him down to level terrain across a stream that runs through the gulley. They then hiked back out of the ravine, putting the rescue on hold due to the onset of darkness.

About 1 a.m., the team went back down into the gorge to check on the animal and provide him with food, water, and a blanket.

Shortly after sunrise, the rescuers returned to Dobby along with a veterinarian, who evaluated the horses wounds. The group initially hoped to airlift him from the gorge, but, discovering that no emergency-services helicopter was available, realized they had to lead him out by ground.

Emergency crews and animal-welfare workers rescued eight-year-old Dobby that slipped and fell off a trail near state Route 94 in the eastern San Diego County back country on April, 17, 2023. (Courtesy of San Diego Humane Society)

During a four-hour effort, they walked the horse back in tough terrain to the staging area up top, where Cal Fire and [Animal Services personnel) were on standby, Thompson said.

A veterinarian then re-bandaged Dobbys wounds, after which his owner, a Ramona resident, loaded him into a trailer for a trip to a North County veterinary critical-care facility.

One of the riders present when the accident occurred had previously ridden the trail and believed that Dobbys fall may have occurred due to erosion of the pathway during recent rainstorms, Thompson said.

Throughout his ordeal, the injured horse remained calm, much to the relief of his rescuers, the spokeswoman noted.

We hope Dobby will make a full recovery, Thompson said. Our [emergency team] members say they are very impressed by his ability to maneuver the tough terrain while injured.
House Committee Chairmen Demand Answers From Defense Chief Austin After Classified Documents Leak

U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin attends a press conference at the State Department in Washington on April 11, 2023. (Madalina Vasiliu/The Epoch Times)

The chairmen of the House Armed Services and House Intelligence committees are demanding answers from Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin after a major leak of top secret military documents.

The world has watched as classified national security secrets leaked widely and precipitously across the internet. The unauthorized disclosures appear extensive, House Armed Service Committee Chairman Mike Rogers (R-Ala.) and House Intelligence Committee Chairman Michael Turner (R-Ohio) wrote in an April 18 letter addressed to Austin obtained by the Epoch Times.

Rep. Michael Turner (R-Ohio) speaks in Washington on Sept. 29, 2022. (Rod Lamkey/Pool/Getty Images)

In recent weeks, it was discovered that many Pentagon documents, including some requiring the highest security clearance to access, had leaked across the Internet.

The source of the leak was later discovered to be Massachusetts Air National Guardsman Jack Teixeira, who had access to the documents and shared them with an online community. Members of the community later leaked the documents, which quickly spread to other parts of the Internet.

However, the documents were reportedly online for weeks before U.S. intelligence officials knew the leak had taken place.

The period over which they occurred unnoticed by government authorities is lengthy, they continued. Americans and our allies are asking how such a serious leak was able to occur with such ease and breadth.

Following discovery of the leak, the DOJ was quick to open an investigation into the matter.

Rogers and Turner said that while they were mindful that the matter was the subject of an ongoing legal investigation, it is imperative that the Committees responsible for congressional oversight have immediate access to all relevant and pertinent information necessary to inform the Committees determination of whether this incident might be corrected or prevented in the future through legislation or other policy-related adjustments.

We must ensure national security is not further endangered or harmed by similar crimes happening in the future, they added.

Rogers and Turner then demanded a laundry list of documents from Austin, including Pentagon protocols and information about permissions to access classified materials.

Several of the requests centered on Otis Air National Guard Base, where Teixeira was employed. They asked Austin to provide information on the procedures for protecting classified material at Otis, and information on any other security incidents that took place at the base.

They also asked Austin to provide them with any internal analysis to date on the leak by the Department of Defense, as well as analyses of the potential security ramifications of the leak.
House Passes Resolution Condemning Russia for Downing US Drone

The House unanimously passed a resolution on April 17 condemning Russia for downing a U.S. drone over the Black Sea.

The resolution was introduced on March 21 by Rep. Brandon Williams (R-N.Y.). It condemns the reckless actions of the Russian military; and recognizes that Russian attempts to recover the drone are a threat to the national security of the United States.

U.S. European Command announced on March 14 that a Russian Su-27 aircraft hit an unmanned MQ-9 aircraft, which collects intelligence, over the Black Sea. In response, the United States had to bring the down the drone in international waters.

Our MQ-9 aircraft was conducting routine operations in international airspace when it was intercepted and hit by a Russian aircraft, resulting in a crash and complete loss of the MQ-9, said U.S. Air Force Gen. James Hecker, the commander of U.S. Air Forces Europe and Air Forces Africa, in a statement. In fact, this unsafe and unprofessional act by the Russians nearly caused both aircraft to crash.

U.S. Marine Corps Gen. David Berger, the commandant of the military branch, said on the day of the incident that the Russian downing of the drone reflects his biggest worry.

This is my biggest worry, both there and in the Pacific, is that an aggressive Russia or China pilot or vessel captain or something gets too close, doesnt realize where they are, causes a collision, and its 2 in the morning and were trying to unpack this as fast as we can. I really worry about that, he said at an event at the National Press Club. In other words, either intentionally or unintentionally, things bumping into each other, causing a collision and then two great nationspowerful nationstrying to sort it out at 2 in the morning.

Berger said that what happened exemplifies the United States not being able to get answers from adversarial counterparts in light of such incidents.

Even more challenging, because right now on our sideon, lets say, the PRC [Peoples Republic of China]normally we would have communications with the PLAN [Peoples Liberation Army Navy], their military, he said. It doesnt exist right now. They wont communicate with us.

Berger said the normal channels through which the two countries might diffuse a situation have been suspended.

I worry that something will happen at 2 in the morning and we cant talk to our counterpart to say, What the heck was that about? I worry, I do.

Following the event, Berger told The Epoch Times that the incident doesnt merit activating Article 5 of the NATO charter, which says that an attack on one member nation is an attack on all members. He said this is because the act was over water, which isnt NATO territory, and that it happened in international airspace over international water.

He said he wasnt aware of any other threats from Russia in light of the incident.
HUD Unlikely to Get Bidens Budget Recommendations, Lawmakers Tell Secretary Fudge

Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Marcia Fudge testified before the House Appropriations Committee on April 18, defending President Joe Bidens 2024 budget requests for the agency.

Bidens budget proposal includes $73.3 billion for HUD, which is around $1.1 billion more than the funding level in 2023. The measure is also asking for $104 billion over 10 years for new mandatory affordable housing investments, Fudge said.

Together, this suite of funding and tax credits aims to tackle the nations housing affordability crisis by making a historic investment in lowering housing costs to further the administrations commitment to rebuilding America from the bottom up and middle out, said Fudge, a Democrat who served as U.S. Representative for Ohio from 2008 to 2021.

If HUD has to operate on a continuing resolution instead of the requested budget, there would be negative consequences, she noted.

Rep. Tom Cole (R-Okla.) leaves the office of Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) in the U.S. Capitol in Washington on Feb. 27, 2023. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Rep. Tom Cole (R-Okla.) is vice chairman of the House Appropriations Committee and chairman of the Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development.

I do think its fair to say were unlikely to be able to give you the increase that you want, but I want to start in a place where I hope we have common ground, Cole told Fudge before asking the HUD secretary her view on the consequences of a continuing resolution for her department.

First thing, Id say that we would probably lose housing for about 125,000 people we are currently supporting, Fudge explained. We would be about $500 million short.

HUD would lose contracts related to its projects-based rental assistance program and would serve about 32,000 fewer people experiencing homelessness.

Fudge also expressed concern that HUD would not properly maintain its IT systems, and private information would be at risk.

As you know  housing is a crisis in this country. We would not even know how many people we could serve without certainty as to where we are headed, Fudge said.

She understands the difficulty of budget processes, she said, but I would just ask you to consider the fact that you do not want to balance your budget on the backs of poor people, or people who need our help the most. It would put us in turmoil, quite frankly; we would not know what we could do from month to month.

Importance of a Timely Bill

In opening remarks, Cole said, We all recognize the importance of having a timely full-year appropriations bill. For HUD and the government as a whole. We know the consequences of not responsibly governing year to year.

As we hear testimony from the Secretary about the Presidents budget request, we need to come together to ensure that communities receive the support they need, while also making sure that were not contributing to surging prices and out-of-control deficits through irresponsible fiscal policies, he added.

Rep. Mike Quigley (D-Ill.) is the ranking member of the Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development. At the hearing, he praised the 2024 proposed budget for HUD, telling Fudge that your proposed investments would ensure millions of Americans remain stably housed and [can] access the support they need to build a stable, safe, and thriving future.

More funding and greater flexibility are critical to preserving and expanding our affordable housing and sustaining our communities, Quigley said. The alternative is taking a step back on the progress we have made to address homelessness, safety, and community revitalization.

Quigley added that the broad reach of HUDs investments can be seen in my own district.

Just last month, you traveled to Chicago to announce a $60 million award to address unsheltered homelessness, Quigley told Fudge. This grant will allow housing organizations to provide over 700 units of permanent supportive housing, 50 units for rapid rehousing, and expanded supportive services and street outreach.

There are some who want to drastically reduce funding for critical public investments, Quigley said. I believe we have to be clear-eyed about what this will mean for HUDs programs and can make a difference between having a home or sleeping on the street for tens of thousands of families.

Fudge was asked if a 20 percent budget cut would be worse than a continuing resolution.

Theyre both bad. But thatd be significantly worse, Fudge said, explaining that they would not have been able to complete simple things like inspections on housing properties.

Public housing is bad now. But you know, it would get worse because we could not do the capital improvements we need to do, Fudge said. We could not recover from COVID, which has destroyed a lot of the payment plans and public housing.

Were looking at what might be as many as 640,000 people that would lose housing if we go back to the 2022 levels, Fudge explained. We would serve maybe 5,000 fewer people who are experiencing homelessness.

House Appropriations Committee member Rep. Steve Womack (R-Ark.) told Fudge that the federal government was operating under fiscal year 22 numbers, really, through December of last year. So, in four months, now were hitting fire alarms?

If we have to go back to those numbers, hundreds of thousands of people are going to be out on the street? he continued. I dont know that I agree with those numbers totally.

I know we all share a desire up here to get a full-year appropriation. Wed like to do it by the first of October. I have my doubts as to whether that can be done or whether it will be done in FY22 levels, Womack said.

But I just want to make the point that we were on those numbers all the way up until we passed the fiscal year 2023 omnibus package, which happened in late December.
Illegal Immigrant Arrests at US-Mexico Border Jump as End of Emergency Powers Looms

Illegal immigrants wait to be processed by U.S. border agents at the U.S.-Mexico border on March 30, 2023. (Guillermo Arias/AFP via Getty Images)

Arrests of illegal immigrants at the United StatesMexico border jumped in March by 23 percent over the month before, newly released statistics show.

U.S. authorities carried out 191,899 apprehensions, up from about 156,100 in February, U.S. Customs and Border Protection said.

More single adults, family units, and minors without responsible adults were encountered, driving the increase.

Arrests have skyrocketed during President Joe Bidens administration and have shown no signs of slowing down. The 2.3 million apprehensions logged in fiscal year 2022 were a record high. If apprehensions continue on current trends, a new record will be set by the time the current fiscal year ends on Oct. 1.

Joe Biden refuses to address the crisis his open border agenda created, Republican National Committee Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel said in a statement. Drug cartels and human smugglers thrive under Joe Bidens watch as deadly fentanyl and traffickers pour into our communities.

Biden administration officials acknowledged the increase from the prior month but pointed out that the numbers were down from March 2022, when more than 222,000 apprehensions were recorded. While arrests of people who illegally enter the country typically increase as the weather warms, the officials also noted that jump was lower than the increase in recent years.

CBP works around the clock to perform our vital missions including maintaining border security. Overall, in March, encounters of individuals on the Southwest border between ports of entry were down  from the prior year, as we continue to respond to the challenges presented by increasing global migration, Troy Miller, acting commissioner of Customs and Border Protection (CBP), said in a statement.

The new numbers did not include nationals from four countries, including Cuba, who were granted parole and allowed into the United States to live and work. Parole authority, traditionally used in select cases, has been increasingly utilized by the Biden administration. Some 27,783 Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans were paroled into the United States in March.

Lawsuits against the program have been lodged by 20 states, which have sought an injunction against the widespread parole. The judge overseeing the case has not yet ruled on the motion.

Biden administration officials have said the program is one way theyre working to deal with the spike in illegal immigration. Other efforts include partnering with Panama and Colombia to crack down on migration through the Darien Gap, which connects North America to South America, and planning to restrict asylum to illegal immigrants who fail to seek protection in countries they pass through on the way to the United States.

Haitian migrants cross the jungle of the Darien Gap, near Acandi, Choco department, Colombia, heading to Panama, on Sept. 26, 2021. (Raul Arboleda/AFP via Getty Images)

End of Title 42

The crisis could be worse, some say, if Title 42 were not still in place.

First introduced during the Trump administration, Title 42 enables officials to quickly expel some illegal immigrants because of concerns they could carry COVID-19. Roughly 1.1 million expulsions were through Title 42 in fiscal year 2022.

The Biden administration first narrowed usage of Title 42 and then tried to end the order, but the U.S. Supreme Court in late 2022 ordered the administration to keep it in place.

Title 42, though, is predicated on the COVID-19 public health emergency declaration. That means it will end when the declaration is allowed to expire in May, according to the White House Office of Budget and Management.

The end of the public health emergency will end the Title 42 policy at the border, the office said in a recent statement.

Officials have said they expect illegal immigrant arrests to jump after the policy ends.

The number of arrests will likely be double or greater, straining Border Patrol operations, the Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General said in a report. The watchdog said it did not see viable plans for border authorities to prepare for the end of Title 42.

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said in December 2022 that the immigration system is under strain as he urged Congress to act. A significant increase in apprehensions will strain our system even further, he added.

Officials have said that they will utilize Title 8, which enables expulsion of non-asylum seekers, even more once Title 42 expires and that theyll release a higher number of illegal immigrants into the U.S. interior under a program called Alternatives to Detention, though a judge in March struck down the program because, he said, its likely illegal.
IN-DEPTH: Bidens EV Plan Could Be Key to Chinas Global Economic Dominance

The Environmental Protection Agencys (EPA) strongest-ever vehicle emissions standards designed to drive mass adoption of electric cars within a decade will increase the United States dependence on China, experts warn.

It benefits the Chinese Communist Party because they control the critical minerals supply chain that is going to be necessary to build out the batteries for those electric vehicles, said Mandy Gunasekara, director of the Center for Energy and Conservation at the Independent Womens Forum, a conservative think tank, in an April 17 interview with The Epoch Times.

Gunasekara served as chief of staff in the EPA under former President Donald Trump. She argued that the Trump administration did a better job of integrating environmental, economic, and strategic considerations than the Biden team, including when it came to the critical minerals used in electric vehicles (EVs) and other technologies.

There was a concerted effort to ensure we werent setting regulations that shut down industrial activity here in the United States, knowing good and well that productivity doesnt go awayit just materializes somewhere else, and typically a place like China, she said.

The agency anticipates that with the new standards, two-thirds of new light-body vehicles will be electric by the model year 2032, up from less than six percent today.

The proposed rules, which would go into effect with cars from model year 2027 onward, target tailpipe emissions from light-, medium-, and heavy-body vehicles.

The EPA claims the standards would significantly reduce climate and other harmful air pollution, unlocking significant benefits for public health, especially in communities that have borne the greatest burden of poor air quality.

A rare-earth refinery near the inner Mongolian city of Baotou on the edge of the Gobi Desert. Most of Chinas rare earths come from mineral-rich Baotou. (Ed Jones/AFP via Getty Images)

Industrial Suicide

This is industrial suicide, said James Kennedy, a U.S. mine owner and rare earths expert, in an April 17 interview with The Epoch Times.

By design, their goal is to wipe out, to destroy, to effectively terminate the massive economic investment that the auto companies have made in the internal combustion engine, he said.

He outlined Chinas long-range, strategic plan to dominate the mining and refining of rare earths, as well as the production of downstream technologies.

No one in the West will accept the reality that China has total domain control at every level, he added.

The rare earth metals terbium, holmium, and dysprosium are one key choke point for Chinese control over EV production.

Kennedy explained that the elements enable neodymium magnets to function at the high temperatures found in the motors of electric cars.

China is the only country in the world, period, exclamation point, that can separate those materials, he said.

Emirates check a vehicle manufactured by Electric carmaker Tesla during a ceremony in Dubai, on February 13, 2017. (Karim Sahib/AFP/Getty Images)

U.S. Climate Envoy John Kerry has emphasized what he sees as the urgent need to cooperate with China in fighting climate change, recently informing Axios that talks between the powers have stalled due to escalating geostrategic tensions.

In Gunasekaras view, the Chinese Communist Party has succeeded by banking on the Democrats climate agenda, which generally goes far beyond what Republicans advocate.

Theyre the ones who, at the end of the day, get to profit off of our bad policies, she said.

Conflict Within Biden Administration

Nadia Schadlow, a senior fellow at the Hudson Institute who served on the National Security Council under Trump, thinks the Biden administration is not entirely off track regarding critical minerals and other materials that go into EVs.

We should be giving the administration credit for pushing the onshoring of these important and critical inputs, she told The Epoch Times in an April 17 interview.

Along these lines, the Department of Energy on April 4 announced $16 million in funding for a rare earth and critical minerals extraction and separation refinery.

President Bidens Investing in America agenda is helping reduce our overreliance on adversarial nations and positioning the country as a global manufacturing leader, Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm said in an accompanying statement.

Last February, the administration announced $35 million in funding to Nevade-based MP Materials, which operates the countrys only rare earths mine in Mountain Pass, California.

Rare earths also figured in Bidens February 2021 executive order on Americas supply chains, and in February 2022 remarks at a roundtable on bolstering Americas supply chains, when he listed them among the critical materials that are badly needed for so many American products.

The problem is, theyre in conflict with some of the other parts of the administration that are less concerned about the competition with China and more focused on traditional environmental issues, Schadlow said.

Like others who spoke with The Epoch Times, she drew attention to the slow pace of mine permitting.

If there is a disconnect with actual capabilitieswhether charging stations around the country or minerals sources in the United States or in allied countriesthen the timing just does not seem to work, she said.

Aerial view of brine ponds and processing areas of the lithium mine of the Chilean company SQM (Sociedad Quimica Minera) in the Atacama Desert, Calama, Chile, on Sept. 12, 2022. (Martin Bernetti/AFP via Getty Images)

Gunasekara stressed the need for effective presidential leadership, given Chinas fundamental challenge to the United States.

I do think its going to take a strategic initiative from the top to address this situation, because it hasnt been addressed in past years. Theres a lot of small decisions that will have to be made to ensure that the United States isnt shifting reliance on OPEC into reliance on the Chinese Communist Party, she said.

The EPA, in response to a query from The Epoch Times on whether the new rules will aid China, defended the proposed standards, saying that they are in line with the direction the American auto industry is already going. The industry has made significant investments in zero-emissions vehicles, which the administration is building upon, an EPA spokesperson said.

In addition, there is enormous investment in zero-emissions vehicle technology and chip manufacturing, for example there has been more than $120 billion of private investments in EVs and batteries in the United States since President Biden has taken office, the spokesperson said.

With President Bidens investment in accelerating American zero emission vehicles production, the U.S. is positioned to lead the clean vehicles future.

China Empowerment Plan

The Biden EPA plan is the China empowerment plan, said Marc Morano, executive director of ClimateDepot.com, a project of the Washington-based think tank Committee for a Constructive Tomorrow, in an April 17 interview with The Epoch Times.

Morano, like other experts who spoke with The Epoch Times, questioned the EPAs ambitious projections of large-scale EV adoption within ten years.

The plan, if it actually goes forward, will create chaos in the automobile industry, Morano said.

Kennedy agreed, saying They are so unrealistic.

He pointed out that the mass adoption of EVs and other green technologies would require extraordinarily high quantities of lithium, rare earths, copper, and other minerals.

Theres just not enough of these materials to go around, he said.

Kennedy also voiced skepticism about claims that Chinas hold on rare earths has relaxed, now that their production has fallen to as low as 60 percent of the global total.

China raised the margins available to resource producers to the point where they would go out, develop projects, and start shipping to China. China didnt want to pollute its country anymore or exhaust its resources, so it created a margin opportunity for producersand that is where were at at this exact moment, he said.

He provided The Epoch Times with a pre-released paper that he wrote with other experts from around the planet, including rare earth industry insiders who chose to remain anonymous out of concern over the professional consequences of highlighting Chinas dominance in that sector.

In it, Kennedy and his colleagues argued that China is positioned to disrupt the production of close to 100 percent of the worlds REE [rare earth element]-dependent technologies and products, including U.S. weapon systems.

Rare earths are critical to many military systems. Youre going to see the same set of problems of needing to loosen permitting requirements in that domain as well, Schadlow, of the Hudson Institute, told The Epoch Times.

Jeremy Catholique, a member of the Lutsel Ke Dene First Nation and shift supervisor at Vital Metals Nechalacho rare earth elements mine in the Northwest Territories, overlooks bags of concentrated ore ready to be shipped to the plant in Saskatoon. (Bill Braden/Vital Metals)

Yet, even just when it comes to commercial vehicles, Chinas monopolistic power over critical minerals gives them leverageand not just over the United States and its domestic automakers.

At the end of the day, they control the density of the economy of the adversarial country. They quit shipping this material to General Motors or Tesla or Lexustheyre literally holding a threat over all of these countries, Kennedy, the mine owner, told The Epoch Times.

The Bigger Picture

Morano said that the EPAs proposed rules are just the latest effort to boost EVs and end gas-powered cars, not just in the United States, but around the world.

Notably, the EPA rolled them out one year after British climate economist Baron Nicholas Stern told the World Bank that the planet needs clarity on timescales for banning the sale of such vehicles.

Oxford, England, has led the way in the 15-minute city concept, which restricts free markets and free movement in the name of going green.

Meanwhile, various localities in the United States are banning or otherwise heavily restricting the construction of new gas stations.

Alexa Posa of YEG United speaks at a protest against 15-minute cities on Whyte Avenue in Edmonton on Feb. 10, 2023. (Courtesy of Alexa Posa)

Morano thinks the rules will raise the demand for used cars, as Americans struggle to buy expensive new electric vehicles, all as the cost of charging increases too.

You can look to Cuba to find out what its like to have a raging used car market because thats what were looking at here, he said.

Kennedy said, Its all for an idea that Mother Nature cant sustain.

The White House did not return a request for comment.

This article was updated to include a statement from the EPA.
IN-DEPTH: One Moment He Was in Command of a 150,000-Pound Plane, Next He Was Technically Dead

Capt. Bob Snow is a survivor of a cardiac arresthe believes the COVID-19 vaccine put him at greater risk

Bob Snow, a longtime pilot with American Airlines, near the San Antonio airport in Texas on March 30, 2023. (Josh Huskin for The Epoch Times)

On a clear spring day in 2022, Capt. Bob Snow steered an Airbus A321 toward its destination gate, as he had done thousands of times during his 31-year career with American Airlines.

But Snow almost didnt live to talk about Flight 1067 from Denver to Dallas.

Shortly after arriving safely in Texas, Snow collapsed in the cockpit. He was in cardiac arrest.

The crisis struck without warning; Snow had felt fine that day. He was a healthy, lean 60-year-old with no history of heart trouble.

However, Snow had taken a COVID-19 injection under the threat of being fired from his job; Snow believes the shot put him at greater risk for a sudden cardiac malfunction.

Regardless of what touched off the medical emergency, it rendered Snow unconscious. And if he had blacked out just a few minutes sooner, the planes co-pilot (officially called a first officer) would have been under extreme pressure to prevent a terrible accident.

Instead, circumstances aligned perfectly to avert tragedy for Snow, his co-pilot, and their planeload of about 175 passengers.

I count my lucky stars, and I count my blessings, Snow told The Epoch Times in March as the first anniversary of his near-fatal encounter approached. While grateful for being alive, Snow laments being robbed of his health, which disqualifies him from flying airplanesa lifelong passion.

In a widely circulated video, shot while he was still hospitalized, Snow became one of the nations first pilots to go public with vaccine-related concerns. He remains convinced that more investigation is needed, especially because once-rare reports of pilot incapacitations seem to be happening more frequently. Seven pilot incapacitations made headlines last month.

In a series of exclusive interviews with The Epoch Times, Snow and his family reflected on his brush with death and how it has changed their lives. They also shared their continuing concerns over possible side effects of COVID-19 shotsa taboo topic for many people.

American Airlines Capt. Bob Snow, photographed in his San Antonio, Texas, home, shortly after air travel resumed amid the COVID-19 pandemic, in 2021. (Courtesy of Bob Snow)

Lucky 21

Even though a year has passed since that Denver-to-Dallas flight on April 9, 2022, it still feels surreal to discuss everything that happened, Snow said.

And the timeline on this just makes you kind of sit back and go, Whoa, he said.

On that sunny, cool Saturday morning, Snow and his co-pilot had divided their flight responsibilities as usual.

The co-pilot was assigned to fly the plane along its 662-mile route from Colorado to Texas; Snow would take control after landing and steer the plane to its gate.

Flight 1067 departed Denver six minutes early.

But if weather conditions had slowed the trip, Snows incapacitation could have struck while the plane was airborne at speeds up to 535 mph. Faced with such a startling, stressful event striking a colleague, his co-pilots ability would have been severely tested, Snow said.

Controlling a plane while coordinating care for an incapacitated captain would be incredibly challenging if the crisis struck during a critical phase of flight, Snow said. Those phases include ascent, descent, and when the plane is at elevations lower than 10,000 feet above ground level.

Flight 1067 could have easily been in one of those critical phases, if the timing hadnt lined up just so that day.

After flying through cloudless skies, with visibility that extended for 10 miles, the aircraft touched down in Dallas at 9:29 a.m. Central Daylight Time. That was four minutes ahead of schedule, according to FlightAware.com.

The early arrival time was a crucial link in the chain of events preceding Snows cardiac crisis.

An unusual gate assignment played a crucial role, too.

Typically, a flight from a western airport such as Denver would be assigned to a gate on the Dallas airports west side. This time, air-traffic controllers sent Snows plane to the east side. What happened there, at Gate C21, suggests that the number, 21, might be as lucky as numerologists say it is.

An American Airlines plane taxis as a Delta Air Lines aircraft lands at Reagan National Airport in Arlington, Va., on Jan. 24, 2022. (Joshua Roberts/Reuters)

Fortuitous Timing

As he approached Gate C21, Snow felt like he had won a small victory.

We landed  and went straight into the gate, Snow said.

Sometimes, Snow has waited upwards of 30 minutes for a gate to become available. This time, he was able to block in the aircraft just 11 minutes after landing.

In retrospect, that was very fortuitous, Snow said. Otherwise, what happened to me could have happened while I was taxiing the aircraft.

If Snow had slumped over the controls during those maneuvers, the 150,000-pound plane might have veered into the path of another airliner, ground crew, or airport equipment.

Again, the co-pilot could have saved the day with a quick reaction. Thats why we have two of us; if something goes wrong with one, the other can take over, Snow said.

Without incident, Snow guided the plane into position. He and the co-pilot finished their shutdown procedures. Both men got ready to exit the aircraft; they were scheduled to work another flight destined for Salt Lake City, Utah.

Snow had just grabbed his suitcase. Thats the last thing he remembers doing. It was lights out, like somebody flicked a switch, he said. There was no dizziness, no indication anything was going wrong.

He collapsed, alone, on the flight deck. Just six minutes earlier, he had been driving the aircraft.

Now, he was technically dead.

Medics Nearby

When Snow describes the aftermath of his cardiac arrest, it feels like hes talking about someone elses experiences.

I wasnt there while all of this was going on, Snow said.

He pieced together a general understanding of what happened, based on records and other peoples accounts.

Snow doesnt know whether anyone witnessed the moment he collapsed. Typically, a flight attendant stands near the cockpit door, saying goodbye to the passengers, mostly blocking their view of the cockpit.

Still, someoneapparently a deplaning passengernoticed Snows collapsed, motionless body and drew attention to him.

An American Eagle plane takes off at DFW International Airport in September 2022 in Dallas. (Smiley N. Pool/The Dallas Morning News/TNS)

The co-pilot, who had been using the lavatory, saw a disturbing sight when he emerged; he radioed for help.

Two passengersa registered nurse and a Navy corpsmanperformed chest compressions to push life-sustaining blood from Snows heart into the rest of his body.

In another stroke of luck, fire and emergency medical crews had been called to a report of a possible fire at an adjacent aircraft. That turned out to be a false alarm.

But that dispatch put medics right next to Gate C21 when Snow collapsed.

Usually, they would have been stationed about six minutes away. By divine providence, they were almost immediately available, Snow said.

Snow is convinced that the speedy interventions saved his life because every minute counts in a cardiac arrest.

Shocked Three Times

The odds were stacked against Snows survival.

Almost 90 percent of the time, people die from sudden cardiac arrests that strike in settings other than hospitals, American Heart Association (AHA) statistics show.

A cardiac arrest is an electrical problem, while a heart attack is a circulation problem, the AHA points out. Although people often use these terms interchangeably, the distinction is important; it determines the type of treatment a patient needs.

At some point, medics connected Snow to a monitor, which showed his heart was in ventricular fibrillation, quivering instead of beating normally.

An emergency defibrillator, used to treat life-threatening conditions that affect the rhythm of the heart such as cardiac arrhythmia, hangs on the wall at the Illinois State Capitol in Springfield on July 1, 2014. (AP Photo/Seth Perlman)

Medics had to shock him three times to reset his heartbeat; they gave Snow a shot of adrenaline and inserted a breathing tube, a medical report shows.

After a seven-mile ambulance ride, Snow reached Baylor Scott and White Medical Center in Grapevine, Texas.

There, doctors were concerned that he could have suffered brain damage while his heart was stopped and blood wasnt flowing. Thats why they sedated Snow and cooled his body temperature. According to The University of Rochester Medical Center, inducing therapeutic hypothermia may reduce inflammation, thus preventing brain damage in cardiac arrest patients.

The Longest Flight

Meanwhile, Bobs wife, Linda, was at their home in San Antonio, Texas. She was expecting her husband to come home that afternoon.

The family had planned a belated birthday celebration for the youngest of their two daughters. Elizabeth had turned 17 during her dads five-day work trip.

Instead of proceeding with birthday plans, Linda Snow fielded a phone call that took her breath away.

Someone from American Airlines called and said that Bob had had an incident, that they could not tell me what happened  but he was being transported to a hospital, she said. The airline then arranged a flight to Dallas so she could see her husband.

The oldest daughter, Alexandra, then 20, drove her mother to the San Antonio airport. The 40-minute flight to Dallas felt like the longest flight Ive ever been on, Linda Snow, a former flight attendant, said. It was like it was forever.

As the couples daughters prepared to depart on a later flight, Linda Snow arrived at her husbands bedside.

She encountered a shocking sight: He lay motionless, intubated, and hooked up to four intravenous medication lines, monitoring devices, and a cooling machine.

That was traumatic, she said, to see my rock, my husband, the father of my kids, laying there like that.

The Snows have been a couple since 1992, when they both worked for an airline based in her native country, Iceland; they married in 1999.

Capt. Bob Snow photographed with his daughters, Alexandra (L) and Elizabeth, in an undated photo. (Courtesy of Bob Snow)

Sensed His Familys Presence?

Doctors told Linda Snow they intended to keep her husband cool and sedated for about 24 hours. They said that, when he wakes up, theres no way to tell what condition he would be in. They couldnt tell how long he had been without oxygen, she said.

Snows daughters reached the hospital late that afternoon, about three hours after their mother arrived.

They were stunned to see their father connected to so much medical equipment. As her sister, Elizabeth, and mother wept, Alexandra says she felt an obligation to be strong for them because of her role as the oldest daughter.

Just after Snows daughters and wife entered his room together, all the monitors started beeping because he was stirring, Alexandra said.

No one knows why he started moving while under sedation. But Alexandra said, It would be nice to think that he sensed that everyone was there with him, that his family was there.

Hours later, mother and daughters retreated to a hotel. They were emotionally drained.

Another Startling Phone Call

This would be a sleepless night for Linda Snow. The next day, April 10, 2022, would begin with another nerve-jangling call on her phone.

Answering at 5 a.m., she heard a nurse saying, Ive got someone who wants to talk to you.

That sounded like bad news. My heart just sunk. It was like, Oh no. Who wants to call me at 5 oclock in the morning? she said.

And then I heard Bobs voice on the phone. She was elated; her husband had fought his way out of sedation, foiling doctors plans.

Relieved, Linda Snow and her daughters returned to the hospital. Although Snow recognized all three of them, he repeatedly asked where he was and what had happened.

It felt like we were almost in a time loop, Alexandra said. He would ask the questions over and over again, and then we would respond with the same answers over and over againbasically, all day.

At first, the repetition seemed funny, she said. But then, as doctors had warned, Alexandra worried whether her father had suffered brain damage.

Later, however, it became clear that Snow had beaten another set of odds. He suffered no brain damage, unlike many cardiac arrest survivors. The majority  have some degree of brain injury and impaired consciousness, the AHA says. Some remain in a persistent vegetative state.

Snows confusion and memory lapses faded as he recovered from sedation and started to figure out what had happened to him.

One minute, Im on the flight deck, looking at my suitcase, and the next minute, Im waking up confused in a hospital room, Snow said. That alone was very disorienting.

Pre-Injection Apprehension

Soon after he awakened, Snow started denouncing the COVID vaccine as the suspected culprit for his predicament.

Alexandra Snow said her fathers protestations made her think back to Nov. 4, 2021, the day he reluctantly headed to get the shot, just before a deadline to comply with American Airlines jab-or-job ultimatum.

I remember standing outside with my mom and watching him drive off. And I just had this bad feeling  I was very nervous, Alexandra said. And I know that he didnt want to get it.

Snow still remembers a feeling of oppressive dread as he drove to a clinic where he would submit to the injection.

Every fiber of my being was screaming, This is a bad idea to go and get that vaccine, he said.

But, as his familys sole provider, Snow felt compelled to get the shot. And he tried to convince himself that everything would be OK. Snow knew many people who had been vaccinated, and so far, nothing too bad has really happened to them, he said.

A vial of the Janssen COVID-19 vaccine by Johnson & Johnson in July 2020. (Johnson & Johnson via AP)

Body Behaving Strangely

Post-vaccine, Snows vaccinated arm got very sore, unlike anything he had felt after numerous vaccinations that the U.S. Air Force required during his seven-year stint.

After the COVID shot, he would recoil in pain if someone touched that arm; if he rolled onto it during sleep, he awakened to a sharp, stabbing pain. This persisted for 10 days.

But he noticed no other side effects. And, after taking time off and enjoying the holidays with his family in late 2021, Snow thought he was in the clear.

After resuming flying in January 2022, Snow started feeling weird pains.

It felt almost like I pulled something in my side, he said. It was on the lower right, opposite his injected arm. The pain would last for about a minute, then subside.

After several recurrences, Snow went to a doctor, who referred him to a specialist in digestive disorders; no problems were detected. In hindsight, I didnt need a gastroenterologist. I needed a cardiologist, Snow said.

Snows indignation over the vaccine mandate intensified after his near-death experience; he felt it was essential to inform people about what happened to him.

While still hospitalized, Snow asked his wife to shoot a video of him. Once it was posted online, the 23-second clip was shared countless times. It inspired national and international media coverage.

In the video, Snow lifts his hospital gown, revealing electrodes on his torso. This is what the vaccine has done for me, he declared. This is the actual result from the vaccine for some of usmandatory, no questions asked; get the shot or youre fired. This is not the American way.

The Epoch Times received no reply to an email requesting comment from American Airlines, which has used The American Way as a slogan.

Probably Vaccine-Provoked

Establishing a link between a vaccine and a health problem is difficult, especially if the adverse event doesnt follow right away. But if anyone challenges Snow to prove that the shot caused his cardiac arrest five months after the shot, he replies: I need you to prove that it didnt.

A doctor who has reviewed Snows entire medical history offered his opinion about the cause of Snows cardiac arrest. He has a high index of suspicion that this was vaccine-provoked. The doctor spoke with The Epoch Times on condition of anonymity to protect his career.

Dr. William Makis, who has been following reports of incapacitated pilots, told The Epoch Times: Chest pain can be referred to the backsimilar to the symptoms Snow experienced for months before his cardiac arrest.

In Snows case, at least two specific factors may have made him more susceptible to an adverse reaction from the COVID vaccine.

Early in 2021, Snow had a mild bout with the COVID virus. That summer, he tested positive for antibodies. Adding the vaccine in the fall of 2021 may have multiplied the effects of the virus spike protein, Snow said. Makis agrees thats a good theory.

Capt. Bob Snow and his daughter, Alexandra, pose near a Cessna airplane. (Courtesy of Bob Snow)

But neither Makis nor Snow has found a single study on that. The research wasnt done, Snow said. Because we are all one big research project.

Snows job, flying airplanes, also could help make a spike-protein-infected person more prone to a cardiac event, Dr. Thomas Levy, a cardiologist, told The Epoch Times.

He said the spike protein is known to cause inflammation, even in spotty areas of the heart. Changes in atmospheric pressure could irritate the inflamed areas, affecting the conduction system of the heart, Levy said.

Snow also wonders whether his decision to get it over with, in one shot, the Johnson & Johnson Janssen vaccine, played a role. Three other vaccines on the market call for a two-dose regimen.

Last month, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration renewed the emergency use authorization for the Janssen shot. But additional cautions have been added, warning about possible side effects.

It irks Snow to hear government agencies tout the vaccines as safe and effective with a low risk of side effects. He feels that stories like his are discounted and dismissed. Snow said that people who believe they are vaccine-injured are treated like collateral damage in a politicized battle over the once-mandated vaccines.

I felt that I was thrown under the bus and was run over, he said. But by the grace of God, I crawled my way out from under the bus, and now Im going to try to do what I can to continue on with my life and be productive.

Too Political to Discuss

For Snow, that includes continuing his advocacy.

We are hearing more and more about studies showing tens of thousands of people were vaccine-injured, and I feel I need to speak out on behalf of some of them who dont have a voice, he said.

Many people are afraid to say anything, and those who do speak out are often not being heard, Snow said. I know because Ive seen friends and acquaintances dont want to hear these stories; they almost ghost you because its too political to talk about it.

Snow has encountered medical professionals who wont explore the topic with him. And no one from American Airlines or the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has contacted him to investigate the circumstances of his cardiac arrest. To him, thats unconscionable.

In an email to The Epoch Times, the FAA said, We do not discuss individual cases. The agency repeated its stock answer: The FAA has seen no credible evidence of aircraft accidents or incapacitations caused by pilots suffering medical complications associated with COVID-19 vaccines.

Snow believes investigations are sorely needed. He notes that US Freedom Flyers (USFF), an aviation advocacy group that connected him with medical and legal experts, has been sounding alarms.

Josh Yoder, USFF president, said reports of pilots with scary symptoms, possibly vaccine-related, began trickling out in late 2021.

Since then, the trickle has turned into a flood. Such reports number in the hundreds, Yoder said.

And those hundreds are just the tip of the iceberg; those are just the ones who are brave enough to reach out, Yoder told The Epoch Times.

He commended Snow for being an example to others. He has empowered large numbers of airline employees to take a firm stand against threats and coercion from their employers, Yoder said. Captain Snows willingness to take a stand for truth has created positive impacts that will be archived in history.

Yoder and Snow think that many government officials and aviation executives fear being held liable for mandating the shots, so they refuse to investigate suspicions that the vaccines may hurt pilots health.

One of the few receptive officials, U.S. Sen Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), recently confronted the FAA about Snows case and four others. Dissatisfied with the agencys response, Johnson accused the FAA of ignoring suspected vaccine injuries among pilots.

Lessons and Losses

Snows life will never be the same. Gate C21 could be the last gate he will approach as a working pilot.

The FAA, the same agency that deems the shots safe for pilots, sets pilot-health requirements. Snow is concerned that the FAA might deny medical clearance to him. Yet he is somewhat hopeful, considering that the cause of his cardiac arrest remains a mystery.

A battery of tests, including several types of cardiac imaging, revealed no inflammation and no other problems with Snows heart. The doctors have given no clinical rationalization for why this happened to me, Snow said. They say nothing is wrong with my plumbing. It makes you wonder what these vaccines might be doing to people, long-term.

For now, Snow remains grounded, on disability from his job at American Airlines. And a medical device is implanted inside him, ready to shock his heart if it beats erratically again. Regularly, the device transmits data to his cardiologist. As of April 18, there was no sign of any problem.

Snow, who had planned to retire in five more years, struggles with the too-early end of a career he dreamed of since age 7.

In his boyhood, he would gaze into the Texas sky and watch planes crisscrossing from nearby airports and Air Force bases. Id see that white line being drawn across the blue and wonder: Where are they going? he said. I always thought: Thats so cool!

A future U.S. Air Force pilot and American Airlines captain, Bob Snow, began attending airshows in childhood; as shown in this photo taken when he was about 10 years old at an airshow, possibly in Omaha, Neb. (Courtesy of Bob Snow)

On April 15, 2022, Snow returned home after a six-day hospital stay. Ever since, he kept his trusty suitcase, filled with pilot stuff, sitting at the ready on his bedroom floor. Putting it away would have felt too much like a final goodbye to aviation, a career he loves the same way a dancer loves dancing.

Ive been robbed of something; its been taken from me. And thats a tough nut to crack, to wrap your head around, he said, especially because he links it to a step he was coerced to take.

This wasnt just an accident, he said. This was, you know, somebody forced you to do somethingand the results were dramatic.

He and his oldest daughter lament that he probably cannot sit alongside her as she learns how to become a pilot, too. Someone else might be sitting in the seat where her father belonged.

On the bright side: My daughters are not without their father; my wife is not a widow, he said. I get to spend more time with them, and Im so grateful for that.

Snow and his family thank medical professionals and the still-unidentified strangers who rendered aid.

Those people helped give the Snow family a priceless gift: More time together.

I dont think its still really settled with me that my dad did technically die, Alexandra said. Just being able to wake up every morning and still have my dad here with us is a blessing.

She marveled at the circumstances that came together to help save her father and said, If any of that had been any different, I dont think my dad would still be here.

For all four of the Snows, every day feels more special.

You know the feeling youd get as a kid when there would be a snowstorm, and youd get the day off from schoola snow day? It was like, Oh yeah! Alright! Well, for me, its almost like that every day now, Snow said.

But among all the days on the calendar, one date will stand out from now on. Snow, who turned 61 in January, intends to mark every April 9 as a different type of birthdaya rebirth day.

On this April 9, Snow and his family basked in each others company. They shared a steak dinner and a few glasses of winea small celebration, courtesy of the mini-miracles that came together a year ago at Gate C21.
Irans Crown Prince Visits Israel to Deliver a Message of Friendship

Israel's Intelligence Minister Gila Gamliel (R) and Prince Reza Pahlavi, activist, advocate and oldest son of the last Shah of Iran, attend a ceremony marking Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day for the six million Jews killed during World War II, at the Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial in Jerusalem on April 17, 2023. (MENAHEM KAHANA/AFP via Getty Images)

Irans exiled crown prince arrived in Israel on April 17, on a visit that reflects the warm ties his father once had with Israel with a message of friendship from the Iranian people.

He participated in Israels annual Holocaust memorial ceremony on Monday night and met with Benjamin Netanyahu and Israeli Intelligence Minister Gila Gamliel.

Gamliel invited the prince of Iran to Israel, saying the crown prince symbolizes a leadership different from that of the Ayatollah regime and leads values of peace and tolerance. We are taking the first step to rebuild the ties between the nations.

Gamliel, who posted a picture with HRH Reza Pahlavi at Yad Vashem in Jerusalem, said that Pahlavi was the most senior Iranian personality to ever come to Israel for a public visit. We appreciate the crown princes expression of solidarity with the citizens of Israel in the face of the severe terrorist attacks perpetrated by Iran, she said, according to local media The Jerusalem Post.

A picture that is worth more than a thousand words. Standing together with Crown Prince of Iran, @PahlaviReza, at the state opening ceremony marking Holocaust Remembrance Day in Yad Vashem, Jerusalem. AM  CHAI pic.twitter.com/SgOwmx3fAg     Gila Gamliel (@GilaGamliel) April 17, 2023

On April 16, Pahlavi posted on Twitter that he wants to engage Israeli water experts on ways to address the [Islamic Republic] regimes abuse of Irans natural resources and pay respects to the victims of the Holocaust on Yom HaShoah.

After his arrival to Israel, he posted on his Telegram channel: Yasmine and I just arrived in Israel. We are very happy to be here and are dedicated to working toward the peaceful & prosperous future that the people of our region deserve. From the children of Cyrus to the children of Israel, we will build this future together, in friendship.

Yasmine and I just arrived in Israel. We are very happy to be here and are dedicated to working toward the peaceful & prosperous future that the people of our region deserve. From the children of Cyrus, to the children of Israel, we will build this future together, in friendship. pic.twitter.com/yN4UO3ecQ0  Reza Pahlavi (@PahlaviReza) April 17, 2023

The two nations have a historic relationship that was destroyed in 1979 during the Islamic revolution by leftist forces that thrust Pahlavis father, Mohammad Reza Shah, out of power. Ayatollah Khomeini, the Islamic Revolution leader, came into power and declared Israel an enemy of Islam and cut all ties.

HRH Reza Pahlavi was born in Tehran, Iran, in 1960 as the heir to the late Mohammad Reza Shah of Iran and Empress Farah Pahlavi of Iran. He was officially named crown prince in 1967 at the time of his fathers coronation. In 1978, at the age of 17, he left Iran for jet fighter training in the United States Air Force and during the instability that followed, the government of Iran was taken over by the Islamic Republic.

Reza Taghizadeh, a political activist who holds PhD in politics and international relations, called Pahlavis Israel visit an unprecedented action and a sign of Tel Avivs new strategic assessment of the political equations in the region and the importance of the future role of Iran as its defense and security ally.

Before 1979 revolution that led to religious government gaining power in Tehran, the relations between Tehran and Tel Aviv were normal and security cooperation was also flowing between the two countries. Since then, [the Islamic Republic has] targeted the existence of Israel and disrupted the security of that country by using the territory of Lebanon, Syria, the West Bank of the Jordan River, and the Gaza Strip, Taghizadeh wrote in an article for The Independent in Persian.
Irish Climber Dies, Indian Missing on Nepals Annapurna

An injured Indian climber who was rescued from the Annapurna mountain region is brought to a hospital in Kathmandu, Nepal, on April 18, 2023. (Niranjan Shrestha/AP Photo)

KATHMANDU, NepalAn Irish climber has died and an Indian is missing after falling into a crevasse in two separate incidents on Mount Annapurna, the worlds 10th highest mountain, an expedition organizer said Tuesday.

Another Indian climber fell ill on the way down from the 8,091-meter (26,540-foot) summit but miraculously survived after spending the night in harsh conditions on the mountain.

Irish climber Noel Hanna, 56, died Monday while returning from the summit, Thaneswar Guragai of Kathmandu-based Seven Summit Treks said. The cause of death was not immediately known.

His body was carried down the mountain and taken to Kathmandu, the capital, Guragai said.

Indian climber Anurag Maloo fell into a crevasse on the same mountain on Monday, Guragai said. A search is continuing for him.

Another Indian, Baljeet Kaur, reached the summit on Monday but became exhausted and fell ill on the way down because she was not using any supplemental bottled oxygen, said Pasang Sherpa of Pioneer Adventure, who outfitted the expedition and organized a rescue effort.

He said Kaur spent the night on the mountain before she was able to make contact and was rescued by a helicopter.

She was taken to a hospital in Kathmandu, where she walked from the ambulance to the hospital building with the help of a nurse.

The popular spring mountaineering season has just begun in the Himalayas in Nepal and hundreds of climbers have begun climbing the highest peaks.

Three Sherpa guides have been missing since last week, when they fell into a crevasse on a treacherous section of Mount Everest just above base camp on the worlds highest mountain. The crevasse is estimated to be about 50 meters (160 feet) deep.

By Binaj Gurubacharya
WUHAN, April 18 (Xinhua) -- Over the five years between 2018 and 2022, more than 50 national archaeological site parks in China have received 146 million visits, according to sources from the National Cultural Heritage Administration Tuesday.

The administration held a work conference on the development of the country's national archaeological site parks in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province.

As of the end of 2022, China had 55 national archaeological site parks. 
Is Hong Kong Serving Russia American Chips?

Analyst: The US needs to adjust its policy towards Hong Kong

Twelve companies from mainland China or Hong Kong will be officially included in the U.S. sanctions list on April 17. At the same time, the media revealed that a Hong Kong company exported many electronic chips to Russia but has not yet been sanctioned. Some experts believe that there is not much difference between Hong Kong and mainland China, so the United States should re-examine its policy towards the former.

The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) of the U.S. Department of Commerce will update its Entity List on April 17. Twelve companies located in mainland China or Hong Kong will be included in this update because these companies try to avoid U.S. export controls, which stipulate the limitations to acquiring or attempting to acquire U.S. products in support of Russian military activities. Some of the to be listed enterprises were found to purchase goods for Russian companies subject to U.S. sanctions or export controls.

However, the list of 12 companies to be sanctioned does not include at least two Hong Kong firms recently named by the media, Agu Information Technology (hereinafter referred to as Agu) and Dexp International Limited (from now on referred to as Dexp).

Agu and Dexp are two Hong Kong enterprises recently revealed by the media to be suspected of helping Russia obtain American chips via a detour. Such transaction information comes from the Russian customs data of the Indian research company Export Genius (EG) obtained by Nikkei Asia and published in a related report on April 12.

The report revealed that from Feb. 24, 2022 (the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine War) to Dec. 31, 2022, Russia imported 3,292 semiconductor products, each costing more than US$100,000. 2,358 of these products were marked as products from Intel (INTC), Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), Texas Instruments (TXN), and other U.S. chip manufacturers. About 75 percent (1,774) of these 2,358 transactions were completed through companies in mainland China or Hong Kong, with a total transaction value of approximately US$570 million.

In 2021, there were only 230 transactions on U.S. chips between Hong Kong or mainland China, and Russia, with a value of US$5.1 million. This means that the scale of transactions has increased tenfold within one year.

Among them, Agu has six transactions between September and December 2022 involving more than 60,000 pieces of Intel semiconductors, with a total value of approximately US$18.7 million, including microprocessors with a unit price of US$13,000 with a Russian company called Mistral. Agu Hong Kong, a private company limited, was registered on April 11, 2022. The registered Chinese name of the company is  (Agu Information Technology Co. Ltd.).

Since the outbreak of the Russo-Ukraine War, to limit the combat effectiveness of the Russian army, the United States banned the export of American-made chips to Russia, claiming such chips may be used in armaments to improve the speed and response capabilities of weapons. Although the CCP has repeatedly denied providing Russia with military equipment, chips that play a crucial role in military equipment are flowing from Chinese companies to Russia on an unprecedented scale.

Tokumori, president of a Japanese high-tech company, told The Epoch Times on April 13 that he was not surprised by the CCPs actions. He said, With the ongoing intensified competition and confrontation between the U.S. and China, the CCP will treat the U.S. and the EU as its main rivals.

And although Russia has now become a weakened entity, it can still distract the attention of the United States to a certain extent. In this way, the CCP still regards Russia as its heavyweight strategic partner in the struggle with the United States and the West, he said.

In addition, CCP leaders lingering memory and respect for the Soviet Union is still a factor that cannot be ignored. Therefore, when Russia is losing ground on the frontlines of the battlefield, the CCP is still willing to continue its support to Russia economically and materially, he added.

Ways to Respond

Tokumori believes that the United States should consider the following options as its response. First, there is no big difference between Hong Kong and mainland China anymore, so the U.S. government should start with a unified policy to treat both Hong Kong and mainland China, he said.

He explained: Originally, Hong Kong was a demonstration window of the one country, two systems advocated by the CCP, with an independent legal system and a free market economy. Therefore, Western countries often regarded Hong Kong as the economic center of the East.

However, since the CCP government perfidiously penetrated and controlled Hong Kong in recent years, the Hong Kong government has since fully obeyed all CCPs instructions and has become the main base for the CCP to deceive the Western world.

In this way, Western countries should no longer treat Hong Kong as a separate entity with freedom and the rule of law as before.

Secondly, as the supply chain is already highly globalized, the U.S. government should check who is buying U.S.-made chips, should use the security and intelligence services available to collect as much information as possible, and share this information with companies so that they can have a better understanding of the risks involved.

Thirdly, shell (readymade) companies are often established and have little transaction history.

The U.S. government should review the qualifications of these chip trading companies, concluded Tokumori.

Agu Stance Unjustified

Agu was registered in Hong Kong in April last year (2022), and the telephone contact information provided on its website is a mobile phone number in mainland China.

When a reporter from The Epoch Times dialed the mobile phone number provided by Agus official website on April 13, a man with a mainland accent answered the phone. He admitted that it was Agu but claimed that the companys business had changed to pulp import and no longer deals in the chips business. However, he did not respond to why the website still shows the interaction of electronic products.

Regarding when the chip business was stopped, the man claimed that it did not do it since the second half of 2022 and emphasized that the current business is pulp trading. But customs data shows that Agus six chip export transactions to Russia occurred between September and December 2022.

In addition, the registered address of the Agu Company is a building on Argyle Street, Mong Kok. Still, the name on the door plate is not Agu Information Technology, but some other trading company. In addition to confirming that it had done some chip business before, the man confirmed on the phone that the address was Agus official company address.

Corresponding Dexp Transaction Records Disappear

Dexp was established and registered in Hong Kong in 2018. From October to November 2022, it exported at least 13 times Intel and AMD semiconductors to one Russian electronic parts company called Atlas, involving an amount of US$2.53 million. Atlas is wholly owned by Russian billionaire Dmitry Alekseev, whom the Ukrainian government has called for his sanction.

A reporter from The Epoch Times found on April 13 in NBD.Ltd Data in Mainland China that Dexp was still exporting sub-32 nm microprocessors to Russia on Jan. 31 this year and took a screenshot of the web page. But on checking again on April 16, all the records of Jan. 31 had disappeared from the web page where Dexps records were initially displayed and replaced with the transaction records in February, with mainly Gigabyte motherboards. However, the original documents showing four transactions before Jan. 31 remain.

A screenshot of NBD.Ltd data on Jan.31, 2023, shows Dexps export of sub-32 nm microprocessors to Russia. (Internet screenshot)

The Dexp International Limited registration information shows that a Russian citizen participated in the companys creation and held all the shares until May 2022. The Hong Kong website hktdc.com sourcing shows that Dexps contact person is Gleb Khitrin.

According to the company information provided by the Chinese recruitment website BOSS Zhipin (direct hiring), the legal representative of Shenzhen Dexipin Technology Co., Ltd. is also called Gleb Khitrin. Incidentally, there are also many similarities in the Chinese translation of Dexipin and Dexp. However, whether the two Khitrins are the same person is still unclear.

Shenzhen Dexipin is a client of a recruitment website and is shown to be currently looking for hardware test and electronic engineers. Shenzhen Dexipin was established on Oct. 11, 2022. The companys address is in Anhongqi Xingyao Industrial Park in Longhua District, Shenzhen.
Its Nonsensical: GOP-Led House Panel Grills SEC Chair on Climate Change Rules

Securities and Exchange Commission Chair Gary Gensler listens during a meeting at the U.S. Treasury Department in Washington on Oct. 3, 2022. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

During an April 18 hearing by the House Financial Services Committee, Rep. Patrick McHenry (R-N.C.) and other committee members criticized Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Chair Gary Gensler for his rushed approach to rulemaking.

Genslers policies around climate-related disclosures came under hot water, with McHenry accusing the SEC chair of endangering American competitiveness.

McHenry, chairman of the House committee, painted Genslers SEC as an agency that is overstepping its authority and refusing to consider criticism.

Time and time again, youve cut the public out of the rulemaking process with unreasonably short comment periods, even for major rules like your disastrous climate disclosure proposal and equity market structure overhaul, the congressman said. You failed to justify these significant rules with thorough evidence, careful studies, and even cost-benefit analysis.

In March 2022, the SEC proposed climate-related rules that would require businesses registered with the commission to produce periodic reports on climate-related risks that are reasonably likely to have a material impact on their business.

Registrants would also be required to disclose their greenhouse gas emissions to the SEC.

The agency argues that investors have a right to such information, so they can weigh the risks that climate change might have on their investments. In his prepared testimony for the recent hearing, Gensler said that while the SEC has no role as to the climate risk itself, it does have a duty to make public companies full, fair, and truthful disclosure about material risks.

The agency received over 15,000 comments regarding its proposal, Gensler said during an interview with CNBC in February.

House Financial Services Committee Chair Maxine Waters (D-Calif.) during a hearing in the Rayburn House Office Building on Capitol Hill in Washington on May 12, 2022. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.), ranking member of the House finance committee, defended the SECs climate proposal.

Republicans are desperately trying to hamper the finalization of the SEC Rule on climate-based disclosures, which will finally provide the material information that investors have been asking for to evaluate how their investments will fare as climate change worsens, she said.

Playing Fast-and-Loose with Regulation

Still, McHenry characterized Genslers approach as too hasty, calling out the SEC chairs 55 new rule proposals in the last two years.

Thats twice as many rules as your predecessor Mary Jo White and Jay Clayton in the same amount of time, McHenry said, adding that there is a growing concern about regulatory overreach.

This raises serious concerns that the rulemaking process is being rushed, undermining the quality of our securities laws and risking negative unintended consequences, the congressman said. These concerns have been echoed by senior personnel at your own agency, and they are similar concerns raised while you were at the Commodity Futures Trading Commission.

In October, a report by then SEC Inspector General Nicholas Padilla criticized Gensler for exhibiting a disorganized and hurried management style. It specifically pointed to Genslers introduction of 26 rules in the first half of 2022, exceeding the combined totals of the previous two years.

SEC Chair Gary Gensler proposed more rule changes during the first half of 2022 than were passed in the two previous years combined, shown in this screenshot from acting SEC Inspector General Rebecca Shareks prepared remarks to the House Financial Services Committee on March 8, 2023. (U.S. House of Representatives)

The report also noted that the agency is losing workers at its highest rate in a decade and that Gensler recruited inexperienced staff from other agencies so he could quickly push new rules, according to Bloomberg Law.

Gensler defended his methodology by saying the more disclosures, the better.

[Regulation] lowers the risk in the markets when you can lower the amount of fraud manipulation, and you promote good transparency, he said during the hearing.

Some economists disagree with this premise. Peter Schiff, founder of Euro Pacific Asset Management, argues too much central planning can result in counterproductive market distortions and corrupt behavior.

Free market competition does a much better job of lowering risk than government regulation, Schiff told The Epoch Times. In fact, by lowering competition and creating moral hazards, government regulation actually increases risk.

Government regulators are far more likely to be corrupted than private third party players that government regulators supplant, Schiff said.
Japanese Sociologist Fears National Security Law After Student Returns to Hong Kong Arrested for Online Remarks

Attendees from various forces march next to a banner promoting the new national security law at the end of a flag-raising ceremony to mark the 23rd anniversary of Hong Kong's handover from Britain in Hong Kong on July 1, 2020. (Anthony Wallace/AFP via Getty Images)

In early March, a 23-year-old Hong Kong student studying in Japan returned to Hong Kong to renew her identity card.

The National Security Bureau arrested her upon her arrival. The student was suspected of inciting secession due to online remarks about Hong Kongs independence.

Tomoko Ako is an international social science professor at the University of Tokyo. She specializes in modern Chinese society and expressed her worries in a blog post on April 3.

The social science professor pointed out that the arrest proved that the Hong Kong National Security Law could apply to anyone outside of Hong Kong.

Professor Ako shared her unease about the arrest that the Hong Kong National Security Law might impact the rule of law and freedom of speech of world citizens from nations outside Hong Kong.

Tomoko Ako confirmed in her post that the arrested Hong Kong female student was the girlfriend f one of her students.

Local media reported that the involved student was apprehended after landing on suspicion of making online remarks about Hong Kongs independence.

The Japanese sociologist said the female student was physically in Japan while making remarks about Hong Kongs independence and was taken into custody upon arriving in Hong Kong.

Afraid of the applicability of Hong Kongs National Security Law to anyone overseas, the professor worried it would tremendously interfere with other countries judicial systems and freedom of speech.

The obscure and exhaustive definition of the National Security Law of both mainland China and Hong Kong can be interpreted in any way. This time, not only it affects people in Hong Kong, but it also threatens Japanese residents. Ako raised her concerns.

Professor Ako reminded the public that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) also repeatedly arrested and locked up many Japanese merchants and scholars in the past for leaking state secrets and spying.

She urged Japanese nationals not to overlook or ignore the risks of being persecuted by the CCP.
'I will not put an expiration date on my baby'

Overjoyed by their first pregnancy, newlyweds from North Carolina hadnt made it very far into their pregnancy when they learned their unborn baby son had a severe genetic disorder and a form of dwarfism affecting roughly one in 100,000. Led by faith, the couple refused an abortion, embracing whatever the future may hold.

Native Floridian Hannah Peters, 30, has been married to native Californian Sullivan Peters, 30, for 11 years, and both have a strong foundation of faith. They made their home in Charlotte, North Carolina, and their miracle son, Jude, turned 9 years old on April 17.

This was our miracle given to us, Hannah told The Epoch Times, adding that they knew God was looking after their baby son and that He would write his story.

We placed everything in His hands for we knew He had a perfect plan, she said.

Hannah and Sullivan with newborn Jude. (Courtesy of Praying for Jude Sullivan Peters)

Jude, who is dependent upon his parents full time, was born with a rare condition called rhizomelic chondrodysplasia punctata (RCDP) which is characterized by skeletal abnormalities, severe intellectual disability, congenital cataracts, profound growth deficiency, and even recurring respiratory illnesses.

Any child living until the age of five is considered a long-term survivor, Hannah said. Jude is a miracle! They sent him home on hospice and morphine and told us he would maybe live for two weeks.  His life is not only a gift to us but to so many people.

Jude is such a happy little boy! He faces a lot of medical battles, but he never loses his pure joy.

Choosing Life

Hannah, a stay-at-home mom, and Sullivan, who works for Judes medical supply company, met at 17 through a mutual friend and instantly clicked. Sullivan proposed at the same live music venue where they met, and the couple tied the knot in May 2012 on a beautiful horse farm in Waxhaw, North Carolina.

To their great surprise, they found out they were expecting Jude a year later.

Baby Jude was born with a severe genetic disorder and a form of dwarfism affecting roughly one in 100,000. (Courtesy of Praying for Jude Sullivan Peters)

We were so excited and anxious to become parents, Hannah said. We didnt make it very far into our pregnancy before we found out that Jude had some medical concerns.

At Hannahs second prenatal appointment, a blood test showed that she was a carrier of cystic fibrosis. During her second 4D ultrasound, doctors confirmed that the baby had a severe form of skeletal dysplasia. Next came the biggest shock of all.

My doctor at the time sat down next to me, took my hand, and told me that I was young and could terminate and try again, Hannah said. We told them how precious our babys life was, and that Jesus had the ultimate say.  We switched doctors quite a few times until we found a team we felt was in our corner and honored our decision to choose life.

Total Faith

Hannah had regular scans, each one both exciting and nerve-wracking. The faithful couple, who both grew up in Christian homes, continued to place their unborn baby in the hands of God; their baby was their miracle and they trusted in Gods perfect plan.

Hannah said: I think that the unknowns were the scariest part. They didnt know exactly what he had, and just kept telling us they knew it was very severe.  They even told us they didnt know if he would be compatible with life outside the womb, but we continued to pray and believe for miracles. We still created a nursery for Jude, bought his car seat, and packed our hospital bags in total faith and believing. We never let go of hope!

When Hannah suffered a partial placental abruption at 32 weeks, during her baby shower, she was rushed to the hospital and prepared for an emergency C-section. But since baby Jude was still so tiny, doctors administered medication to prevent infection and steroids to help the babys lungs develop, in hopes of delaying delivery for another 24 to 48 hours.

The doctors on our high-risk antepartum team told us it would be a medical case study, because my amniotic fluid replenished, and I was able to stay on bed rest and carry to 40 weeks, Hannah said, insisting, This entire journey since the very beginning has been a miracle.

Jude was born on April 17, 2014, in Charlotte, North Carolina, at CMC Main, now Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center. Hannah remembers it as the best day of their lives and knew from the outset that Jude was a fighter.

They told us they didnt think Jude would be able to breathe on his own, and therefore we wouldnt hear him cry, she said.

But when he was born he let out a warrior cry, and it was like every broken piece of our hearts was instantly put back together. I have never felt a love so deep as the love I felt when they placed him in my arms for the first time. I had never seen anything more perfect and beautiful as my baby boy.

Will to Live

The couple received Judes official diagnosis through blood testing when he was a few weeks old at Nemours Childrens Hospital in Wilmington, Delaware. Around the same time, they were invited to become part of a clinical trial in conjunction with Med-Life Discoveries, Nemours Childrens Hospital, and RhizoKids, developing a plasmalogen therapy for RCDP, which currently has no treatment.

We are currently in the natural history portion of this trial, and getting closer every day to starting this new treatment.  Its hard to put into words what this means to me, Hannah said.

Life for the family of three today is centered around Judes care. Jude, who is 100 percent oxygen dependent at all times, requires daily breathing treatments and vest therapy to keep his lungs clear, gets all of his nutrition through a feeding tube, needs help bathing and changing, and has therapy to prevent his joints and muscles from stiffening.

Two of Judes biggest challenges, Hannah said, are seizures and lung issues; he has spent over a month in the ICU for something as simple as a common cold. Yet, Judes family is constantly blown away by his will to live.

Hannah said: Jude is often referred to as Brave Little Warrior because of his strength and true bravery. We have seen him endure many medical procedures, catheters, spinal taps, and IVs and he never cries for them. He will squeeze our hands and breathes deeply through the pain with his worship music playing.

Jude responds so much to worship music. We play worship music at home for him all day, and it sets such a peaceful and happy environment for him. You often hear his little voice trying to sing along, and hell give huge smiles when his favorite songs come on.

Judes Purpose

Bubbly Jude loves meeting new people; is a huge fan of cuddles, loud noises, and dancing; and is a major night owl who likes to stay up late and sleep in late. Loving and being loved by his family is Judes favorite thing of all.

Jude has the sweetest spirit, and though he is nonverbal, he has learned to express to us in his own beautiful and special ways just how much he loves us, Hannah said. Being Judes mom is the greatest honor of my life, and being loved by him is the most wonderful gift.

Testifying on her blog, HannahKatelynPeters, she wrote: I dont look at Jude and see his disorder, I will not find his identity in that. I look at Jude and I see a Brave Little Warrior. I will not put an expiration date on my baby, and I am so proud that he has already far beaten the ones that medical professionals tried to put on him.

The couple shares updates about their miracle son on Facebook and Instagram. We knew that Judes life would have such a beautiful purpose, and being able to share his testimony and that purpose is such a gift that was given to us, the proud mom told The Epoch Times.

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
Hong Kong Pro-Democracy Activist Joshua Wong Sentenced for Doxxing

Hong Kong pro-democracy Joshua Wong leaves the Eastern Magistrates' Courts after being arrested and released on bail in Hong Kong on Aug. 30, 2019. (Anthony Kwan/Getty Images)

In August 2020, former Secretary-General and Co-founder of Demosisto Joshua Wong Chi-fung posted photos and personal data of a police officer and his family, who shot an unarmed 20-year-old protester in the stomach with a live round in Sai Wan Ho, Hong Kong.

Although Wong deleted the post within 48 hours, over 200 people commented with 400 shares. Of the comments on the post, some were allegedly Instigating others to disturb the policeman and his family.

Joshua Wong was accused of violating an injunction order and a doxxing ban. Wong pleaded guilty to one count of contempt of court.

Case Involved

On Nov. 11, 2019, a Hong Kong traffic warden shot a 20-year-old protester in the stomach at close range with a live round in Sai Wan Ho during the anti-extradition movement.

Chow Pak-kwan, the protester, suffered from severe conditions after being shot in the stomach. His right liver, kidney, and two liver lobes had to be surgically removed.

The news shocked Hongkongers as the gun-down protester did not carry any weapon, and the policeman fired without warning. The enraged netizens began digging for the officers identity and family information.

In August 2020, Joshua Wong posted photos and personal data of the policeman and his family. He deleted the post within 48 hours.

Sentencing

The Department of Justice has never filed a complaint or formally charged the police officer who fired a live round at an unarmed civilian at close range. However, The Department of Justice charged Joshua Wong with contempt of court in 2022.

The prosecutor claimed that Wong posted online info containing the Chinese name of the police officer involved in the Sai Wan Ho incident on Aug. 14, 2020. The prosecutor also alleged that Wong circulated the same post with the officers and his familys data in various online discussion forums.

Judge Russell Coleman sentenced Wong to three-month imprisonment on April 17.

Target of Regime

Wong was gliding through social movements at the age of 14. In 2011, he founded the now-disbanded Scholarism, a student organization protesting against the immoral and national education curriculum in Hong Kong.

In 2012, Wong successfully led Hongkongers to force the government to cancel implementing the brainwashing subjects.

In 2014, he was named by Time magazine as one of the worlds 25 most influential teenagers for his involvement in the Umbrella Movement, and in 2018 he was nominated by U.S. senators to run for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Wong has been sentenced and jailed many times since 2018 on unlawful assembly, contempt of court, participating in and inciting others to participate in an unlawful assembly, and violating the No Masking Regulation.

In early March 2022, although he had served his sentence, he was charged with subversion of state power for participating in the 2020 Legislative Council primary election. He was remanded to Stanley Prison to await trial.

The imprisonment of activists like Wong has undermined confidence in Hong Kongs future, and many young professionals have responded to shrinking freedoms and autonomy by moving abroad.
Lab Leak Only Explanation for COVID-19: Former Intelligence Director

Nominee John L. Ratcliffe sits during a Senate Intelligence Committee nomination hearing at the Dirksen Senate Office building on Capitol Hill in Washington on May 5, 2020. (Gabriella Demczuk-Pool/Getty Images)

A laboratory leak is the only COVID-19 origin theory supported by evidence, a former intelligence official testified on April 18.

A lab leak is the only explanation credibly supported by our intelligence, by science, and by common sense, John Ratcliffe, the director of national intelligence during the latter portion of the Trump administration, told a congressional committee in Washington.

Some scientists and other experts say the bulk of available evidence indicates COVID-19 started at a set of laboratories in China where scientists had been experimenting with bat coronaviruses in the years leading up to the emergence of the illness. The laboratories are located in Wuhan, where the first COVID-19 cases appeared.

Other scientists argue either that most evidence supports COVID-19 starting among animals, even though no intermediary between bats and humans has been identified, or that there isnt enough evidence to say either way.

Ratcliffe said that from what he saw inside the intelligence community, if evidence for the natural origin theory were put side-by-side with evidence for a lab leak, the lab leak side of the ledger would be long and overwhelming while the spillover side would be nearly empty.

In fact, were this a trial, the preponderance of circumstantial evidence provided by our intelligence would compel a jury finding of guilt to an accusation that the coronavirus research in the Wuhan labs was responsible for spawning a global pandemic. And likewise, the Chinese Communist Party would be convicted of going to great lengths to cover up the viruss originsfrom destroying medical tests, samples, and data, to intimidating and disappearing witnesses and journalists asking questions, to lying and coercing global health authorities, to spreading propaganda that the virus originated in the United States, Ratcliffe said.

The intelligence community has been divided in its assessment of the origins of COVID-19. In a document declassified in 2021 after Ratcliffe had left the government, the Office of the Director of National Intelligence said that four elements of the community favored the natural origin theory while one element favored the lab leak theory, and other elements werent sure either way. The Department of Energy has since reportedly shifted to favoring the lab leak hypothesis, while the FBI director has said the bureau believes strongly in that theory.

Some elements continue to offer that there is insufficient evidence to make an assessment, including the CIA, Ratcliffe said.

To put it bluntly, this is unjustifiableand a reflection not that the agency cant make an assessment with any confidence, only that it wont, he said. The CIA did not respond to a request for comment.

Ratcliffe noted that an ombudsman examining the politicizing of intelligence found that analysts appeared reluctant to have their analysis on China brought forward because of their disagreement with Trump administration policies, saying in effect, I dont want our intelligence used to support those policies.

Other Witnesses

David Feith, an adjunct senior fellow at the Center for a New American Security and a former deputy assistant secretary of state, told the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic that the State Department struggled to get basic information on the origins of the virus.

Early on, the government improperly relied on outside researchers who falsely described the lab leak theory as improbable and a conspiracy theory, Feith said.

Over time, though, it became harder to ignore the suspicious basic facts of the story, he said, including how the Chinese Communist Party suppressed and destroyed evidence from hospitals and genomics companies, market stalls, government labs, and academic articles

As we documented these issues to inform our diplomatic engagements with China and others, our attention was drawn increasingly back to the Wuhan labs, Feith said.

Just before the Trump administration ended, the department finally published a fact sheet that concluded the virus could have emerged naturally or from a laboratory accident.

Feith said that questions could be answered by releasing what spurred the Department of Energy to change its assessment and what the government has found in its analysis of the origins matter. The department hasnt responded to requests for comment.

Mark Lowenthal, former Vice Chairman for Evaluation for the National Intelligence Council and the minority witness, told the panel that due to key information being withheld by China, we may never resolve this issue with certainty.

Rep. Brad Wenstrup (R-Ohio), chairman of the subcommittee, said that theres mounting evidence suggesting a research- or lab-related incident, while Rep. Raul Ruiz (D-Calif.), the subcommittees ranking member, said that there is no consensus among intelligence officials and more research is needed.

The hearing took place a day after a new Senate report assessed the preponderance of information supports the lab leak theory.

The last hearing on the subject saw Dr. Robert Redfield, a former director of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, say that it was more likely COVID-19 originated in the Chinese laboratories but that the answer would probably come from the intelligence community.
Major South Korean Ports Will Stop Using Chinese Cranes Over Security Concerns

More than half of the cranes installed in South Korean ports come from China

As the South Korean government investigates Chinese-made port cranes over security concerns, several ports recently announced they will stop using them and instead rely on domestic manufacturers.

South Koreas intelligence agency launched a security investigation against Chinese-made cranes in March. According to South Korean news portal sedaily.com, the Korean government is looking to frame follow-up measures based on the probe results of all Chinese-made cranes currently underway. Steps will also be taken against existing Chinese-made cranes this year.

According to multiple South Korean news outlets, the countrys top-ranked Busan Port announced on April 14 that all cranes installed in new terminals will come from Korean manufacturers.

Workers load a container filled with relief goods for North Korea onto a ship at the western port city of Incheon, South Korea, on Aug. 30, 2006. (Jung Yeon-Je/AFP via Getty Images)

The authority of Incheon Port, the second largest port in South Korea, said it prefers to recruit port operators who intend to buy domestically made cranes.

Yeosu-Gwangyang Port Authority also said that it plans to purchase 43 cranes from Korean companies, which will be installed at the Gwangyang automation port later this year.

Security Concerns

Security concerns prompt South Korean ports to switch to domestic products.

U.S. officials expressed concern that Chinese-made giant cargo cranes used in ports across the United States, including several operated by the U.S. military, could be used as a spying tool by Chinas communist regime, The Wall Street Journal reported on March 5.

Shanghai Zhenhua Port Machinery Company (ZPMC) is the most prominent Chinese port container crane manufacturer that sells cranes at lower prices than Western companies. ZPMC dominates about 70 percent of the world market. Nearly 80 percent of the cranes at U.S. ports are the products of ZPMC, according to the Journal.

In a 2017 video posted on Microsofts website, Huang Qingfeng, then president of ZPMC, touted that all cranes can be monitored to help resolve technical problems from its main office in Shanghai.

U.S. security agencies found that ZPMC-produced cranes have sophisticated sensors that can register and track the origin and destination of containers, which may grant the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) access to information on materials shipped to and from the United States that are used to support U.S. military operations around the world, according to the Journal.

Bill Evanina, former director of the National Counterintelligence and Security Center (NCSC), speaks during a hearing of the Senate Intelligence Select Committee on the threats to national security from China on Capitol Hill in Washington on Aug. 4, 2021. (Nicholas Kamm/AFP via Getty Images)

Bill Evanina, former director of the National Counterintelligence Security Center (NCSC), told the Journal on March 5 that Chinese cranes can be the new Huawei.

Its the perfect combination of legitimate business that can also masquerade as clandestine intelligence collection, he said.

The United States banned telecommunication equipment from Chinese tech giant Huawei as its device threatened national security in November 2022.

National Power Party Congressman Ahn Byung-gil cited data that showed that of the 809 cranes operating in 10 major ports in Korea, 427 are the products of ZPMC, accounting for 52.8 percent of the market, the Chinese language edition of Chosun reported on April 15.

The Port of Pyeongtaek is critical for the stationed U.S. forces weapons and military materials (including armor). However, the report said that Chinese-made cranes make up 75 percent of the total cranes at the port.

Of the total number of cranes, Chinese cranes make up 55.4 percent in Busan Port, 68.1 percent in Incheon Port, and 62.5 percent in Ulsan Port. The other five portsMokpo, Pohang, Gunsan, Masan, and Taesanuse completely Chinese cranes, according to Chosun.
Man Sues Ontario Securities Commission for Violating His Charter Rights by Cooperating With China

A Canadian entrepreneur is suing the Ontario Securities Commission (OSC) for violating his Charter rights by cooperating with Chinaa known human rights abuserwhen it signed an agreement to investigate him with the countrys Ministry of Public Safety (MPS) in 2017.

In the lawsuit, which was filed in the Ontario Superior Court, Edward Gong claims the OSCs decision to use tainted evidence and share information on him and his company with the MPS was unabated, unregulated and unlimited in scope and use.

Gong, who lived in Canada for more than two decades before becoming a Canadian citizen in 2008, alleges in the claim the OSC treated him as though he belonged to China, instead of recognizing his rights as a citizen of Canada.

Gong, who made his fortune manufacturing health supplements in Canada and then selling the products to Chinese customers, says he employed more than 600 people in his company, which generated revenues that topped $200 million.

In 2017, the OSC charged Gong with fraud over $5,000, possession of property obtained by crime, laundering proceeds of crime, and uttering a forged document. The charges came after he sold securities in two companies, O24 Pharma PLC and Canadian National TV Inc., both of which the OSC alleged were controlled by Gong.

The OSC also alleged that a large sum of the money that Gong received from the scheme was directed to his bank accounts in Canada, which he then used for his benefit.

In 2021, Gongs criminal charges of fraud and money laundering against the tycoon were withdrawn. But his company Edward Enterprise International Group pleaded guilty to operating a pyramid scheme and forging documents, and was fined $1 million and forfeited nearly $15 million in assets to the Canada Revenue Agency.

Gong said that when the OSC told Chinese police that Gong may be in China, they put him at risk of being indefinitely detained, tortured, or killed.

RCMP Liaison Officer Warned About Cooperation With China

According to documents signed in court, the OSC signed an agreement with Chinese police to disclose information on the case on April 4, 2017. RCMP liaison officer Sean Jorgensen had raised concerns about sharing information with China, but was pushed out of the liaison office in Beijing.

After the agreement was signed, a team of Chinese agents flew to Toronto in October 2017. Two months later, Gongs property was raided and he was arrested at Pearson International Airport.

The lawsuit alleged that OSC staff gave at least 5,890 potentially privileged documents to investigators in New Zealand and Chinafiles that contained private information on Gongs customers in China and employees in Canada.

Gong also alleged he was treated in a discriminatory manner, as it was highly unlikely that a Canadian citizen born in Canada of European background, who was accused of financial crimes, would have been treated in such a manner.

OSC did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
IN-DEPTH: Nashville Shooting Sparks Gun Control Debate in Tennessee Legislature

The flag atop the Tennessee State Capitol in Nashville flew at half-staff Wednesday, two days after six were killed at The Covenant School in a shooting. (Chase Smith/The Epoch Times)

As the Tennessee Legislature gaveled into session on April 17with discussion of arming teachers on the agendaa mother whose son attends The Covenant School, where three children and three staff members were murdered in a shooting on March 27, gave a harrowing account of how the tragedy affected her and her children.

The last three weeks have been deeply painful. Our days are spent hearing children as young as 3 years old describe in horrific detail what they saw and heard, said Sarah Neumann, holding back tears. Third graders saw the dead bodies of their friends, not just coffinstheir classmates. They sat in those rooms, shielded by their teachers, with bullets flying over them.

Neumanns 5-year-old son, Noah, attends The Covenant School, and also has a 2-year-old.

I texted our preschool moms thread active shooter at Covenant, she said. I could barely type the words, my body was shaking. At that moment, that innocent moms text thread was forever changed from a place that we shared pictures and reminded each other of dress up days, to now coping through trauma and things parents should never have to discuss.

Soon after, she met up with her family at a reunification site at a nearby church to be with the Covenant community.

My dad drove an hour to get the kids so they wouldnt witness any more agony, but not before the first mom was told her kid was gone, she said. Those screams and sorrowing wailsI worked in pediatric oncology for 13 years, I held kids in my arms as they died way too many timesnothing compared to the scream of that mom.

A young girl moves toward the items left in front of the photo of Hallie Scruggs, one of three 9-year-olds killed along with school staff in the March 27 shooting at The Covenant School in Nashville, Tenn. (Chase Smith/The Epoch Times)

She said she walked in the school the other day and saw the bullet holes and the spots where the bodies of the students and staff members had lain. She said classrooms looked like they were frozen in time, with March 27 still written on the boards.

Gun Control Activists

The march where Neumann spoke on April 17 was a part of Moral Monday, a political demonstration in which protesters took to the streets of Nashville to call upon the state Legislature to ban assault weapons in Tennessee and to vote against legislation to arm teachers.

Scores of people participated in Nashvilles Moral Monday, a political demonstration that first started in North Carolina a decade ago by Bishop William Barber II. Nashvilles event included marchers carrying adult and childrens caskets to the state Capitol, speeches outside of the Capitol, and eventually some entering the Capitol.

Those caskets were not allowed by Tennessee State Troopers into the Capitol.

Rep. Justin Jones, one of two Democrats expelled from the House for causing disorder while calling for gun control days after the shooting, brought the smallest casket into the capitol and attempted to bring it into the House chamber as it was already in session.

I was just trying to get back into the chamber with a childs casket to represent the policies of this body and we were locked out, he said.

Jones said the clergy came in the thousands from across the nation to give moral witness to whats happening in the Tennessee Legislature.

Thousands of clergy  are here today praying and asking us to do something about these children who are being killed in our streets, Jones continued. I hope, Mr. Speaker, that casket thats sitting out of there will send a clear message about what is happening in this body. We are perpetuating policies of death.

Rev. William Barber II addresses the media during a press conference in Charlotte, N.C., on Sept. 22, 2016. (Sean Rayford/Getty Images)

Barber organized the event with gun control activist groups Everytown for Gun Safety and Students Demand Action.

Better Security, Not Gun Control

Members of the Tennessee Legislature opposed to stricter gun control measures have been focused on increasing school security measures and increasing mental health funding instead of restricting gun rights.

In a press conference the day of The Covenant School shooting, Nashville Police Chief John Drake said that investigators determined the shooting suspect had considered a different target to attack, but because of threat assessment by the suspect, too much security, they decided not to.

Republican Gov. Bill Lee, along with members of the Legislatures Republican supermajority, announced changes to the budget shortly after the shooting that would include increased funding for an armed school resource officer at every school and doubling the amount of money toward mental health resources.

Lee, a week after the initial measures, also called on the Legislature to pass some form of an extreme risk protection order and signed an executive order strengthening background checks.

The Tennessee Firearms Association has condemned the governor in what they say is an attempt to create red flag laws and restrict the Second Amendment rights of Tennesseans.

Many Republicans have stated specifically that red flag laws are a nonstarter and would violate due process rights of gun owners in Tennessee.

As of April 18, legislation has not been brought up to create a red flag law. The session is expected to wrap up next week and will not reconvene until January 2024.
New Mexico Approves Another Round of $500 Rebates for Taxpayers

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham approved sending New Mexicans rebate checks by the start of this summer when signing a tax bill last week.

The governor confirmed the cash assistance payments in a Twitter post on Friday.

Our state today is in a fantastic financial position, and its important to me that New Mexicos families are sharing in that success. Starting in mid-June, New Mexico taxpayers will see $500 in economic relief arriving via direct deposit or in the mail, Grisham wrote.

New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham speaks in Santa Fe, N.M., on Jan. 21, 2020. (Craig Fritz/AP Photo)

An estimated 875,000 taxpayers throughout the state will be eligible to receive the payments regardless of their income level. Married couples will receive $1,000 rebates, according to the official announcement.

Prices for basic necessities continue to be high across the nation, Grisham said in a statement. Our state today is in a fantastic financial position, and its important to me that New Mexicos families are sharing in that success.

This years round of rebate checks will be automatically processed for all residents who filed 2021 tax returns. However, some individuals could have their rebate checks withheld by the state if they still owe 2021 back taxes to the state.

State lawmakers approved the rebates as part of a lengthy tax package during this years 60-day legislative session, and this comes as the governor approved and vetoed many bills earlier this month.

In addition to the tax rebates, the governor approved HB 2, which authorizes $9.6 billion in spending for next years state budget; a 14 percent increase over this year, the bill states.

Every one of these provisions directly helps New Mexicans through supporting working families, bolstering the health care workforce, and fostering continued economic growth, Grisham said in a statement.

Expanding the Child Tax Credit will help over 200,000 New Mexico families and broaden our successful effort to reduce child poverty rates, which dropped by a full percentage point between 2019 and 2021. Cutting the gross receipts tax for health care practitioners will lower costs for patients and keep more doctors in New Mexico, and increasing our support for film and television will leverage more private investment in our state and mean more jobs for New Mexicans.

One of the most prominent vetoed bills was a 20 percent increase on alcohol taxes. Grisham said the numbers just werent right and insisted more work needs to be done.

For me, for New Mexicans, outside of the tax issue, we need to do more about alcoholism and treatment and DWI and public safety, and I dont need that, per se, to do more, she said in a statement. We did get funding to do that in health and in Medicaid and in other places, but were going to have to do more here, and we will.

The expanded child tax credit provides more than $100 million in tax relief for an estimated 214,000 families who will be able to claim a larger credit of up to $600 per child, depending on family income, the bill states.

The bill as signed will also help make health care more affordable by allowing health care providers to deduct copays and deductible payments from gross receipts tax on many health care practitioner services covered by insurance or managed health care plans, according to the bill.

I am so pleased that Governor Lujan Grisham continues to support health care providers and ensure access to care by expanding the gross receipts tax deduction for health care, Dr. Barbara McEneny, CEO of the New Mexico Cancer Center said in a statement. With this step, New Mexico just became more competitive in recruiting and retaining doctors.

Eligible New Mexico residents have until May 31, 2024, to file a 2021 New Mexico Personal Income Tax return and still qualify for the rebates.

Our staff is already hard at work preparing this next round of rebates, which we know New Mexicans are eager to get, TRD Secretary Stephanie Schardin Clarke said in a statement.
BEIJING, April 18 (Xinhua) -- The Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) has revealed an outline for its plan to issue and revise Party regulations from 2023 to 2027.

According to the outline, made public Tuesday, one priority of the plan is to improve the systems that uphold Comrade Xi Jinping's core position on the CPC Central Committee and in the Party as a whole, and uphold the Central Committee's authority and its centralized, unified leadership.

The mechanisms to ensure the CPC Central Committee's leadership over major initiatives will be perfected. Systems will be installed to ensure only the CPC Central Committee is entitled to decide and explain major principles and policies that concern the whole Party and country.

A set of regulations will be issued on the implementation of the CPC Central Committee's major decisions and plans, regulating every link from the division of work to the assessment of the results and supervision.

Regulations on Party leadership will be improved to ensure the Party's role in exercising overall leadership and coordinating the efforts of all, the document said, highlighting efforts to enhance the institutions for Party leadership over organizations including people's congresses and the government.

It also urged a scientific setup of the power and duties of Party and government institutions to ensure that Party and government bodies perform their respective functions in a clearer manner.

The regulations on major decision-making processes for Party committees and Party leadership groups will be formulated to ensure that advice from the people is sought, research and investigation strengthened, and decisions reviewed carefully.

Efforts will be made to refine the Party's organizational rules and regulations, including drafting the electoral regulations for central Party organizations.

The system of training, selecting, appointing and managing Party officials will be enhanced, while more proactive, open and effective policies on talent will be adopted.

According to the outline, the CPC Central Committee will improve regulations and systems related to the Party's own development, including regulations that improve intra-Party democracy, enhance the close connections between the Party and the people, prevent privileges among leading officials, correct mistakes and fight corruption.

The regulations and systems of supervision over the Party will also be enhanced. The regulations on intraparty oversight will be revised to promote coordination between various types of oversight, with intraparty oversight playing the main role.

The systems to hold officials accountable for their work will be more targeted while the systems will be improved to encourage officials to take the lead in shouldering responsibility and to excel in their daily work.

Highlighting the significance of the five-year outline, the CPC Central Committee asked Party committees and leading Party members' groups at all levels to properly implement the outline and strictly enforce the Party regulations. 
Rep. George Santos Announces Reelection Bid Despite Calls for Resignation

Rep. George Santos (R-N.Y.) looks on as the U.S. House of Representatives convenes for the 118th Congress at the U.S. Capitol in Washington on Jan. 3, 2023. (Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images)

Rep. George Santos (R-N.Y.) announced on Monday that hes running for reelection, despite facing multiple ongoing investigations, questions over his background, and repeated calls to resign.

As a first-generation American, I am no stranger to the issues affecting my district. I grew up poor with a single mom, and thanks to the American dream, a poor boy of immigrant parents in Queens can grow up to serve his community in the halls of Congress, Santos said in a statement.

Santos, who represents New Yorks 3rd Congressional District, has been in Congress since January after defeating Rob Zimmerman, a Democrat, in the 2022 midterm elections with 53.8 percent of the vote.

The Republican formally declared his candidacy on March 14 when he filed paperwork with the Federal Election Commission.

I was elected to fulfill my campaign promises of securing our border, lowering the high cost of living, solving the disastrous SALT issue in our tax code, and fighting the [Gov. Kathy] Hochul crime crisis of policies empowering criminals to terrorize the people of New York, Santos said in his announcement.

Ive been in office for 100 days, and through legislation and my votes, Ive already made significant efforts to honor those promises, the 34-year-old continued. Since the Left is pushing radical agendas, the economy is struggling, and Washington is incapable of solving anything, we need a fighter who knows the district and can serve the people fearlessly, and independent of local or national party influence.

ANNOUNCEMENT: I am proudly announcing my bid for re-election for #NY03. This is about TAKING BACK our country and restoring greatness back to New York. To support donate here:https://t.co/BH2nGK54vp pic.twitter.com/LGJdPcsyP6  George Santos (@Santos4Congress) April 17, 2023

Background Scrutiny

During his last campaign, Santos portrayed himself as a graduate of Baruch College who went on to work for high-profile financial firms Citigroup and Goldman Sachs, while also touting he ran an animal charity, in addition to other falsehoods.

In December, Santos admitted that he lied about his employment and education history, saying he never actually graduated from any college and also never directly worked for the two Wall Street firms.

During an interview on Piers Morgan Uncensored in February, the New York lawmaker admitted that hes a bad liar, but he defended his deceptions by saying that he was trying to get the support of his local political party.

Following news of Santos fabricating much of his resume, the Nassau County Republican Committee publicly called for his resignation in a statement on social media, stating that over 40 Republican elected officials have rebuked Congressman George Santos.

The Chairman of the Nassau GOP and the elected officials condemned Santos campaign of deceit and lies, the statement said. His fabrications have hurt people. Whats more, he deceived voters and has disgraced the House of Representatives. Santos has got to go!

Santos is also under a House Ethics Committee investigation over claims he engaged in unlawful activity on the campaign trail. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) has said that Santos would be expelled from Congress if the committee finds that he broke the law.

Then House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) answers questions during a press conference at the U.S. Capitol in Washington on July 29, 2022. (Win McNamee/Getty Images)

If  he has broken the law, then we will remove him, but its not my role, McCarthy said on Jan. 24. I believe in the rule of law. A persons innocent until proven guilty.

McCarthy has stood by Santos, stating that the people of New Yorks 3rd Congressional District voted him into office.

He has a responsibility to uphold what they voted for, to work and have their voice here, but at any time if it rises to a legal level, we will deal with it then, he said.

In a statement in early March, Santoss office said hes fully cooperating with the investigation and that there will be no further comment made at this time.

Jackson Richman contributed to this report.

From NTD News
No Charges for Officers in Jayland Walker Shooting

A poster on the stage during a news conference following the funeral service for Jayland Walker at the Akron Civic Center in Akron, Ohio, on July 13, 2022. (Gene J. Puskar/AP Photo)

AKRON, OhioAn Ohio grand jury declined to indict eight police officers involved in the death of Jayland Walker during a car and foot chase last summer, the states attorney general announced Monday.

Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost said the states investigation found that Walker jumped out of his still-moving car, ran from police and ignored commands to stop and show his hands. Some of the officers first used Tasers to try and stop Walker, Yost said.

But Walker reached toward his waistband and raised a hand as officers were chasing, Yost said. The officers, not knowing Walker left his gun in the car, believed he was going to fire again, Yost said. He said it is critical to remember that Walker had shot first.

Responding at a subsequent press conference, the Walker family and their supporters mourned the grand jurys decision and called on Akron residents to protest for justice and change. U.S. Rep. Emilia Sykes (D-Ohio), of Akron, said she will ask the U.S. Justice Department to investigate the patterns and practices of the Akron Police Department.

The family and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) previously have called on the Justice Department to open a federal civil rights investigation.

Bobby DiCello, an attorney for Walkers family, criticized the states investigation, saying police gunned down Walker execution-style. Paige White, another attorney for the family, said the investigation was skewed in favor of the police and that Jayland didnt have a chance.

The state investigation said police first saw Walker driving with a broken taillight and a broken light on his rear license plate, but they decided not to follow him. They saw him 10 minutes later at the same intersection and became suspicious, Yost said.

Police said Walker refused to stop and then fired a shot from his car 40 seconds into the pursuit.

Officers chased the car on a freeway and city streets until Walker bailed from the still-moving vehicle and ran into a parking lot where he was killed while wearing a ski mask, body cam video showed. Authorities said he represented a deadly threat. A handgun, a loaded magazine, and a wedding ring were found on the drivers seat of his car.

Police union officials said the officers thought there was an immediate threat of serious harm and that their actions were in line with their training and protocols.

Dash-cam video from a police cruiser captured images of Walker firing the gun from his car, said Anthony Pierson, an assistant state attorney general. Walker had no criminal history and had never fired a gun until he went to a shooting range with a friend in early June, Pierson said.

At the time of the shooting, Walker was grieving his fiancees recent death, and his family and Pierson said his actions that night were out of character.

That night he encountered the police he wasnt acting himself, Pierson said. By all accounts he was a good person, a good man.

Authorities checked Walkers online history and found in the weeks before his death searches for phrases including drinking bleach and quickest ways to die, according to an investigative report released Monday.

The report also contained information from a Euclid, Ohio, police captain who told investigators that Walkers best friend interviewed for a police job in that city days after Walkers death and suggested it had been suicide by cop.

But when interviewed by investigators, the friend strongly disputed that, telling detectives that Walker was distraught but never mentioned suicide.

Pierson was asked at the news conference if Walkers death could have been suicide. He declined to speculate about Walkers state of mind but said there was no direct evidence he was suicidal.

Akron Police Chief Steve Mylett said Monday that the city will begin an internal investigation into the shooting, but he would not release the names of the eight officers because of ongoing threats against them.

The officers, who initially were placed on leave, will remain on administrative duties. None of the eight officers appear to have been disciplined for any previous use of force incidences, according to investigation records released by the state.

While the grand jurys decision shows no crime was committed by the officers, in no way does that take away from the tragedy of June 27, Mylett said.

Attorneys for the eight officers released a statement calling the incident a tragedy for the entire community, including Walkers family and all of the officers who were involved. A split-second decision to use lethal force is one that every police officer hopes he or she will never be forced to make, the statement said.

A county medical officer said the autopsy found no illegal drugs or alcohol were detected in Walkers body.

After taking over the investigation last summer at the request of Akron police, prosecutors with the Ohio attorney generals office presented the case to the grand jury.

City set up a designated protest zone downtown outside city hall, where plywood covered the first-floor windows. Temporary fencing circled the county courthouse and many businesses boarded up their windows.

But hours after the grand jurys decision, the protest zone was almost entirely empty on a cold, windy night mixed with snow flurries and rain.

The citys school district canceled classes on Tuesday in the wake of the grand jury announcement.

Less than 24 hours before the chase, police in neighboring New Franklin Township had tried to stop a car matching Walkers, also for unspecified minor equipment violations. A supervisor there called off the pursuit when the car crossed the townships border with Akron.
One person died and multiple people were injured on April 18 after a parking garage collapsed in Lower Manhattan near Pace University.

Lawmakers are now demanding immediate access to information about how a 21-year-old airman could leak hundreds of highly classified documents. The Air Force also said that it has opened its own investigation into the leak.

Both military groups fighting in Sudan agreed to a 24-hour ceasefire after a U.S. diplomatic convoy was fired on in Sudan. However, it didnt last long.
House Republicans are moving forward with their probe into Biden family business dealings. Now, more family members are being investigatedbringing the total up to nine.

Secret Chinese regime police stations are exposed on U.S. soil. The FBI is cracking down on agents working overseas for the Chinese Communist Party(CCP). Two men were arrested on April 17 for their alleged involvement in a secret station in New York City. Over 40 other defendants were charged in a separate scheme.

Prosecutors charge an 84-year-old Kansas City man in the shooting of a teenager who came to his front door. The 16-year-old was shot in the head and arm but survived and is recovering. We have more on the charges.

Topics in this episode include:

1. Suspect In Kansas City Shooting Charged

2. NY Woman Shot After Pulling Into Wrong Driveway

3. No Indictment in Jayland Walkers Death

4. House GOP Probing 9 Biden Family Members

5. US Arrests 2 CCP Agents

6. Florida to Introduce New Bill Against Disney

7. Musk Warns of AI Civilization Destruction

8. Ban on Natural Gas Overturned in CA City

9. LA Mayor Proposes $1.3 Billion Budget for Homeless

10. Are You Considering an Electric Vehicle?

11. Protecting Kids From Online Dangers

12. Classic Cars Roaring Into Investment Funds
Nuclear Weapons the Only Power That Can Fight China in Event of Clash Over Taiwan: Robert Spalding

An F/A-18 Hornet fighter jet landing on the deck of the U.S. Nimitz-class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman, during a NATO vigilance activity NEPTUNE SHIELD 2022 (NESH22) on the eastern Mediterranean Sea, on May 23, 2022. (Andreas Solaro/AFP via Getty Images)

According to Robert Spalding, retired U.S. Air Force Brigadier General, nuclear weapons are the only power that can fight China in the event of a conflict over Taiwan.

China reportedly sent 42 warplanes and eight naval vessels toward Taiwan on April 8 in response to Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wens meeting with U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) on April 5 in California.

Beijings actions came as the Chinese Communist Partys (CCP) military announced on April 8 that it was beginning three days of combat readiness patrols and Joint Sword exercises around Taiwan, involving police patrols.

Even on April 11, after its three-day military exercises, the regimes provocative military actions continued in the area.

According to the former general, the military activities show that the Peoples Liberation Armythe Chinese militaryis practicing how they would conduct both a blockade and then eventual invasion.

He called such moves frightening and concerning.

Every single day, the Peoples Liberation Army is practicing and preparing and training and equipping to invade Taiwan, and every single day we get closer to that eventuality, Spaldling recently told China in Focus on NTD, the sister media outlet of the Epoch Times.

General Robert Spalding (Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times)

And as China continues to practice, eventually, theyre going to move just like the Russians went into Ukraine. So we should not discount the threat that the Chinese pose to Taiwan, he added.

Chinas President Xi Jinping called on the countrys armed forces to strengthen military training oriented towards actual combat, state media reported Wednesday, April 12, after Beijing conducted military drills to intimidate Taiwan.

Xis comments were made on a naval inspection trip on Tuesday, the last day of the drill series.

Nuclear Power as Fighting Means

In his opinion, if a war between the two superpowers breaks out over Taiwan, there is no guarantee that the United States can gain the upper hand over China.

China has a bigger Navy, they have a bigger Air Force. Now. Its in their backyard. Theyre eight miles from the Taiwan coast; were thousands of miles away with not all of our resources there, he said.

Moreover, Weve committed a lot of weapons and other things to Ukraine, he added.

The only weapons that would enable the U.S. to balance the conventional military might of China are nuclear weapons, he contended.

If were talking about nuclear, were absolutely prepared. Our nuclear forces certainly are, and theyve been ready throughout the Cold War, through the end of the Cold War, weve kept them prepared and credible, he said.

Were talking conventional. Absolutely not, he added.

Nuclear Deterrence

Spalding further said that the strategic ambiguity toward Taiwan, which means Washingtons deliberate vagueness on whether it would defend the island in the event of a Chinese attack, is a problem.

If we want to prevent an invasion, if we feel like thats important, then we ought to let them [China] know quite clearly that going across this red line is going to be something that theyre going to regret. And then we have to basically put consequences behind this, he said.

He deemed nuclear weapons essential to deter China from extending its aggression beyond Taiwan.

He noted that the warning message delivered to Beijing must be very forceful.

And [it] has to be backed up by nuclear weapons. If were not willing to do that, then I fear that were not going to be able to deter the Chinese from eventually invading Taiwan, he said.

And we ought to let them know that if you invade Taiwan, there will be consequences that put the Chinese Communist Party leadership itself at risk; thats what theyre concerned about. If were not willing to do that, then youre going to see the Chinese continue past Taiwan to be aggressive with other nations, he said.
Oregon Governor Signs CHIPS Bill to Help Boost Industrial Developments

Tina Kotek speaks during Day 1 of the Democratic National Convention at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Penn., on July 25, 2016. (ROBYN BECK/AFP via Getty Images)

Gov. Tina Kotek signed the Oregon CHIPS Act into law on April 13 after the bill was approved by state legislators, which would allow the governor to authorize funds in rural regions of Oregon for industrial developments.

This bill is an absolutely essential tool for leading a coordinated effort with the private sector to ensure we can compete for federal funds to expand advanced manufacturing in Oregon, Kotek said in a statement. We are poised to lay the foundation for the next generation of innovation and production of semiconductors.

The CHIPS ACT will provide $190 million to develop a grant and loan program to support semiconductor businesses looking to expand in Oregon, according to the governors press release.

Production operator John White checks a panel at the SolarWorld solar panel factory in Hillsboro, Oregon, U.S., Jan. 15, 2018. (Reuters/Natalie Behring)

Kotek expressed her gratitude toward the state Legislature for helping to pass the bill on Twitter.

Signed, sealed, and soon to be delivered: The Oregon CHIPS Act is now official! Excited to see our state take the lead in the semiconductor industry, she posted alongside a picture with her colleagues.

After her announcement, she celebrated with a relatable snack.

What do you do after the Oregon CHIPS Act is signed!? Celebrate with some chips! the governor tweeted playfully, holding a bag of chips with a smile.

The new law will also provide $10 million in funding to help communities prepare land for manufacturing sites and $10 million for a University Innovation Research fund that will help public universities secure federal research grants, according to the governors office.

State Sen. Janeen Sollman(D-Hillsboro) has long advocated for bills that allow farmland space to increase urban growth around the region.

We need to listen to the semiconductor task force, Sollman said in a statement to OPB. Im really hoping that we can work with the governors office to truly respect our farmland  but really be smart about where that growth could be to benefit the area.

Sollman showed her support for the governors approval of the CHIPS Act in a Twitter post after the bill was officially signed.

What a day! @GovTinaKotek signed Oregons CHIPS Bill (SB 4). Opening Oregon doors for innovation! I was so happy to have my entire team join me at this game-changing, bipartisan, bicameral event today! #ProudToBeSD15 #orleg #CHIPSAct Sollman wrote.

State Rep. Bobby Levy (R-Echo), who voted against the bill, said he disagrees with the governor approving action to reduce farmland in favor of industrial buildings.

Several decades from now, we may not want or even need microchips, Levy said in a statement to OCC. People will always need food, and paving over farmland to create industrial sites destroys it for hundreds of years without the possibility of reversal.

State Senate Majority Leader Kate Lieber (D- Portland) praised Oregon lawmakers for coming together to move forward and take steps toward improving the states semiconductor industry.

Everybody on this committee wants the same thing, which is to make sure that we have continued economic prosperity for Oregon for many, many decades, Lieber said in a statement to OPB. What is exciting about this bill is that I think that is going to be a start.
Ottawas $798M in New Non-Announced Spending Measures Concerning, Says PBO

Parliamentary Budget Officer Yves Giroux waits to appear before the Standing Senate Committee on National Finance in Ottawa on Oct. 25, 2022. (The Canadian Press/Adrian Wyld)

Parliamentary Budget Officer (PBO) Yves Giroux says his office has some concerns about the nearly $800 million worth of new non-announced spending measures to be implemented over the next several years that were identified by the federal government in its most recent budget.

Giroux told MPs on the House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance on April 18 that tracking the source of the funding could be problematic going forward as the money was not earmarked in Budget 2023 for any specific spending measures.

The concern we have is that when the spending gets announced publicly, its very difficult to trace it back to the source of funds, he said. Was it Budget 2023? Was it Budget 2022? And so its very difficult to figure out what was the source of funds and is this new funding when it finally gets announced.

Its very difficult for us to follow that kind of money. And thats the main concern we have with that.

Giroux added that his office has raised its concerns on the matter in reports and with federal officials.

They are well aware of our concerns, he said.

Girouxs comments on the issue come several days after his office mentioned it in a report titled Budget 2023: Issues for Parliamentarians, in which the PBO said the non-announced spending presents a lack of transparency.

In Budget 2023, the Government identified $798 millionon a net basisin new non-announced measures over 202223 to 202728, wrote Giroux in the report.

He added that this funding in absolute terms represents over $12 billion in either revenue or spending decisions for which there are no specific details.

This lack of transparency presents challenges for parliamentarians and the public in scrutinizing the Governments spending plans, as well as reconciling between previously provisioned amounts and their announcement, Giroux wrote.

Clearly Planned Spending

However, Giroux also told the Commons finance committee on April 18 that its not unusual for governments to include non-announced funding in a budget as a safety net in case of unforeseen events.

What makes this one particularly challenging is that there are positives and negatives, he told MPs.

He said the Liberal governments non-announced measures this year have a level of detail that is quite high, which he suggested indicates that Ottawa already knows how the funds will be used but is not yet certain of the specific amounts needed for individual measures.

Theres clearly planned spending that the government has a clear idea on and decisions that are either made or almost made and for which the quantities are quite clear. So its presented as an aggregate, so we dont have any clear idea obviously whats included, he said.
Philippine Senator Wants China Envoy Recalled Over Threat to Oppose Taiwan

Filipino soldiers stand at attention near a Philippine flag at Thitu island in disputed South China Sea on April 21, 2017. (Erik De Castro/Reuters)

A Philippine senator has called for Beijing to recall its representative in Manila as soon as possible following his threat to the Philippines to oppose Taiwans independence.

How dare he threaten us, Senator Risa Hontiveros said in a statement on April 16. He, along with his countrys ships and artificial islands in the West Philippine Sea, should pack up and leave.

Hontiveros referred to Chinese envoy Huang Xilian, who criticized the Philippines for granting the United States greater access to its military bases under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA).

Huang said the Philippines would unequivocally oppose Taiwans independenceinstead of inflaming the situation by giving the U.S. access to basesif it genuinely cared about the 150,000 Filipinos living in Taiwan.

We will not renounce the use of force, and we reserve the option of taking all necessary measures. This is to guard against external interference and all separatist activities, he said at a forum in Manila on April 16.

Huang compared the issue of Taiwans independence to rebel issues in Mindanao, Philippines, where government and insurgency conflicts had been raging for decades. He said Manila will never allow any third party to meddle with resolving rebel issues in Mindanao.

Hontiveros said the Philippines respects the right of Taiwanese people to self-determination but would not meddle in the matter of the islands independence.

She said the Philippines would not allow Beijing to dictate the fate of Filipinos living in Taiwan and urged the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) not to embroil the Philippines in its fight with the United States.

It is China who has been stoking tensions in the region, claiming territories that arent theirs, the senator said.

It is China who continues to bully, harass, and intimidate other smaller nations in the region.

Philippines Refutes Taiwan-Mindanao Comparison

The Philippine Department of National Defense reaffirmed its position of non-interference in the tensions between China and Taiwan, saying that its primordial concern was the safety of Filipinos living in Taiwan.

Amid tensions in the cross-straits, however, the department deems it prudent to prepare for any contingencies to ensure the safety of Filipinos overseas, especially those based in Taiwan, it said in a statement.

The department clarified that the issues of Taiwans independence and Mindanaos rebel insurgency differ because the peace process in Mindanao allowed for the international communitys participation.

It reiterated that the Philippines decision to grant the United States greater access to military bases was aimed at bolstering its defense capabilities and was not directed against any country.

U.S. Marines take part in a joint amphibious assault exercise off the waters of the South China Sea in Claveria, Cagayan province, Philippines, on March 31, 2022. (Ezra Acayan/Getty Images)

The Philippines earlier granted American forces access to four new military bases, including a naval base, an airport in Cagayan province, and an army camp in Isabelaall located near Taiwan.

The CCP had warned that expanded EDCA sites would seriously endanger regional peace and stability and drag the Philippines into the abyss of geopolitical strife and damage its economic development.

China-Taiwan Tensions Could Affect Entire Region

Philippine Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo earlier said his country would bear the brunt of any escalation of tensions in Taiwan, given its proximity with the island, which sits only 90 miles from the northernmost point of the Philippines.

Taiwan is literally next door to the Philippines, he said at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) forum in Washington on April 10.

Our view is that not only would it affect the Philippines, but it would affect the entire region and could escalate to even something, you know, more dangerous, Manalo added.

He also emphasized that the Philippines accords its alliance with the United States and its special place in the context of our independent foreign policy.

Our alliance stands proud in the nexus of relationships and arrangements buttressing the regional security architecture. This architecture must maintain trust and confidence among parties amidst the U.S.-China rivalry and other geopolitical pressures.

The Philippines and the United States are allies under the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty, which dictates that the United States and the Philippines will defend each other if either is attacked.

Last year, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned Beijing that Washington was obligated to defend the Philippines if its forces, vessels, or aircraft came under attack in the disputed waters of the South China Sea.

Andrew Thornebrooke contributed to this report.
PG | 1 h 40 min | Drama, Comedy | 1946

Director Archie Mayo prefaces his fantasy film with a phrase of exposition, This story is about Eddie Kagle, who based his way of living on what Omar Khayyam once said: Live fully while you may and reckon not the cost.'

That can be read in two ways. A simplistic reading is obvious: Your life is yours and since youve got only one, make the most of it, take as much money, fame, power and pleasure out of it as you can.

A deeper reading isnt as obvious: Your life isnt yours alone, therefore, make the most of it, give as much love, forgiveness, hope, faithfulness, and truth as you can.

Mayos tragicomedy fleshes out both readings, the first in jest, the second in all seriousness.

Eddie Kagle (Paul Muni) negotiates with the Devil (Claude Rains), in Angel on My Shoulder. (United Artists)

Fellow gangster, Smiley shoots dead his hedonistic boss-partner Eddie Kagle (Paul Muni), who promptly heads down to Hell. Used to cutting deals his whole life, Kagle strikes one last deal even in death, this time with the Devil (Claude Rains), amiably nicknamed Nick.

Nick, frantic to up his tally of doomed souls, wants upright Judge Parker down, in more ways than one. Nick allows Kagle (Parkers doppelganger) to inhabit Parkers body to ruin him and send him to Hell, too, which shouldnt be too hard given Kagles ruinous words and hellish actions. But the stakes are high. Judge Parker, a hero in the towns eyes, is running for governor.

Kagle heads back up to earth to wear Parkers body for a while, on the condition that hes free to fire a few bullets back at Smiley, and savor again the good life while hes at it: guns, gals, greenbacks. But Parkers uprightness is in the way. Also in the way is Parkers devoted secretary and fiancee, Barbara (Anne Baxter), whos oblivious to why the new Parker now feels more like a hoodlum than a hero.

Screenwriters Harry Segall and Roland Kibbee deploy a metaphor of health. A good man, they suggest, is himself. An evil man is divided against himself; he goes against his essential nature: goodness. Who alerts him to this nature? An angel on his shoulder: someone, like Barbara here, who loves Parker, or his conscience, voiced through those, like the townsfolk here, who respect him.

Implying that Parker (actually, Kagle spewing slang) is ill, trusted butler Albert tells Barbara, The judge is not himself. Naturally, she calls the doctor!

(LR) Barbara (Ann Baxter) appeals to Ed Kagles (Paul Muni) good nature as the Devil (Claude Raines) looks on. (United Artists)

Characters From Hell

The sequence depicting Hell is played for irony and laughs. For all its heat, Hells a cold place. Its inmates share no warmth, and if anything, are cool to each other. Hot with coal-fed fire already, Nick & Company still struggle to keep temperatures up; its never hot enough.

Not a hair out of place, Rains is perfect. Suave, impeccably dressed, he looks like some aristocrat waiting for his overdue caviar.

For a leading man, Muni at 5 9, is short, but his swagger, his splayed arms, his fingers ready to bunch into a fist, all tell you hes a gangster even when hes in a judicial gown. He also shows you Kagle, slowly, seeing people for themselves, not for what they can give him. He notices them valuing Parker for his noble values, not for judgements he can secure for them in court, or for laws he can shape or execute for them once hes governor. But Nicks not about to give up.

Baxter is tender as Barbara, longing for Parkers benevolence to be amplified on a stage higher than his courtroom. When the doctor asks her to show Parker (a reckless Kagle on the inside) patience, no matter how difficult, she replies, Nothings difficult where Freds concerned.

Some sequences arent as funny as intended, yet, the film pretends to magnify Nicks whisper to Kagle: make the most of it  deny yourself nothing  blaze like a torch. Then, it reveals how contrary its message really is. Perhaps its because weve got only one life that too precious to squander in selfishness. Perhaps our life means anything only when we help or heal others. Perhaps our life isnt entirely about us after all.

Once, feeling increasingly lost, an anguished Kagle curses his shallowness, I aint got nothin. I aint even got myself! Mayo hints that maybe its precisely when Kagle finds himself.

A man returns from hell to redeem himself in Angel on My Shoulder. (United Artists)

Angel on My Shoulder

Director: Archie Mayo

Starring: Paul Muni, Claude Rains, Anne Baxter

MPAA Rating: PG

Running Time: 1 hour, 40 minutes

Release Date: Sept. 20, 1946

Rated: 3 stars out of 5
Putin Critic Jailed in Russia for 25 Years for Treason

Russian opposition figure Vladimir Kara-Murza, accused of treason and of discrediting the Russian army, stands behind a glass wall of an enclosure for defendants during a court hearing in Moscow, on April 17, 2023. (Moscow City Court/Handout via Reuters)

An outspoken Putin critic was sentenced to 25 years in a penal colony by a Moscow court on Monday, after being found guilty of treason and other offenses he denies committing. It is the harshest sentence of its kind since Russia invaded Ukraine.

Vladimir Kara-Murza, 41, a father of three, is an opposition politician who holds Russian and British passports. He has criticized for years President Vladimir Putin and has called on Western governments to impose sanctions on Russian and Russian individuals for purported human rights violations.

State prosecutors, who requested a 25-year term, accused Kara-Murza of treason, among other offenses, and of discrediting the Russian military after spreading knowingly false information about its conduct in what Moscow calls its special military operation in Ukraine.

In a CNN interview broadcast hours before his arrest in April 2022, Kara-Murza, whose family home is in Washington, alleged that Russia was run by a regime of murderers. He had also used speeches in the United States and Europe to accuse Russia of bombing civilians in Ukraine, a charge Moscow has rejected.

After hearing his sentence of 25 years in a maximum-security penal colony, Kara-Murza, who was listening to proceedings inside a glass courtroom cage, said Russia will be free, a well-known opposition slogan.

Russian opposition figure Vladimir Kara-Murza, accused of treason and of discrediting the Russian army, appears on a screen in a court building during a video link to a hearing in Moscow, on April 17, 2023. (Maxim Shemetov/Reuters)

He also smiled andaccording to one of his lawyers, Maria Eismontsaid he regarded the harsh sentence as recognition of his effective work as an opposition politician.

When he heard hed got 25 years he said: My self-esteem has gone up, I understand that I did everything right. Its the highest score I could have got for what I did, for what I believed in as a citizen and a patriot,' she said.

In his final speech to the court last week, Kara-Murza compared his trial, which was held behind closed doors, to Josef Stalins show trials in the 1930s. He declined to ask the court to acquit him, saying he was proud of everything he had said.

Eismont said Kara-Murzas team would appeal Mondays verdict, which she said had been marred by legal violations.

The Kremlin, when asked about the verdict, said it did not comment on court decisions.

Envoy Summoned

Londonwhich in 2020 imposed sanctions on the judge presiding over the case for alleged human rights violationssaid it had summoned the Russian ambassador to protest over what it said was a politically-motivated conviction.

Russias lack of commitment to protecting fundamental human rights, including freedom of expression, is alarming, British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said in a statement.

Outside the court in Moscow, British Ambassador Deborah Bronnert told reporters that Kara-Murza had been punished for bravely speaking out against Russias war in Ukraine and demanded he is immediately released.

U.S. Ambassador Lynne Tracy, speaking alongside her, said Kara-Murzas conviction was an attempt to silence dissent.

Criminalization of criticism of government action is a sign of weakness, not strength, Tracy said.

The European Union on Monday condemned the sentencing, describing the Russian court ruling as outrageous and politically motivated.

This is yet another demonstration by Russian authorities of the political misuse of judiciary, in order to pressure activists, human rights defenders, and any voices opposing Russias illegal aggression against Ukraine, spokesperson Peter Stano said.

Shortly after sending tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine in February last year, Moscow introduced sweeping wartime censorship laws that have been used to silence dissenting voices.

Discrediting the army can currently be punished by up to five years in prison, while spreading deliberately false information about it can attract a 15-year jail sentence.

Casting the conflict in Ukraine as an existential struggle with the West, Russian pro-government politicians say unity across society is vital. They have described Russian citizens who question Moscows actions in Ukraine as part of a pro-Western fifth column trying to undermine the military campaign.

Twice, in 2015 and 2017, Kara-Murza fell suddenly ill in what he said were poisonings by the Russian security services, on both occasions falling into a coma before eventually recovering.

Russian authorities denied involvement in those incidents. Kara-Murzas lawyers say that as a result, he suffers from a serious nerve disorder called polyneuropathy.

Eismont, his lawyer, said his legal team was concerned about his health after an examination by a civilian hospital at the end of March found his condition was worsening.

Tatiana Stanovaya, founder of the R.Politik analysis firm, said Kara-Murzas lobbying for sanctions on Russia had long irritated the Kremlin and that his conviction was a warning.

This is verdict aimed at sending a signal and probably not the last of its kind, she wrote on the Telegram messaging app, which was founded by two Russians.

In future, the security services can be much less choosy and seize anyone if they are on Russian territory and a critic of the Putin regime. This is a warning to all anti-Putin activistsdont come back or well put you in jail, de facto for life.

More Information on Kara-Murza

Russian opposition activist Vladimir Kara-Murza sits on a bench inside a defendants cage during a hearing at the Basmanny court in Moscow on Oct. 10, 2022. (Natalia Kolesnikova/AFP via Getty Images)

Kara-Murza is a historian, journalist, and opposition politician who has studied in England at Cambridge University. He was a close associate of Boris Nemtsov, a leading opposition figure who was assassinated near the Kremlin in 2015, and continued to speak out against President Vladimir Putin despite the mounting risks.

Kara-Murza was one of a small number of opposition politicians who remained active in Russia after it invaded Ukraine in February 2022 and publicly condemned the war in defiance of new censorship laws.

He was declared a foreign agent and accused of spreading false information about the actions of the Russian military in Ukraine in connection with a speech he had given the previous month in the Arizona House of Representatives, where he said Putin was dropping cluster bombs on residential areas, mothers homes, hospitals, and schools.

In July, Kara-Murza was additionally charged over his involvement with two foreign-based opposition forums that are labeled by the Russian state as undesirable. Finally, on Oct. 6, he was charged with treason over public speeches he had made in Lisbon, Helsinki, and Washington.

The trial was held behind closed doors but Kara-Murzas wife and lawyer released a copy of a speech he delivered to the court.

Reuters contributed to this report.
WUHAN, April 18 (Xinhua) -- Over the five years between 2018 and 2022, more than 50 national archaeological site parks in China have received 146 million visits, according to sources from the National Cultural Heritage Administration (NCHA) Tuesday.

The administration held a work conference on the development of the country's national archaeological site parks in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province.

As of the end of 2022, China has 55 national archaeological site parks, according to an NCHA report that recounts the development of such parks between 2018 and 2022.

But what are national archaeological site parks? According to a set of national regulations on the management of these parks, they are public cultural spaces developed on archaeological sites, and they can serve multiple purposes, including scientific research, education and recreation.

When members of the public visit these parks, they can see how archaeological work is carried out and observe archaeological findings up close. Not only that, they can also experience archaeological excavations and cultural relic restoration, and gain a profound understanding of the cultural and historical value of the sites.

Currently, such parks have been developed at some of the most renowned archaeological sites in China, including the Old Summer Palace, or "Yuanmingyuan" in Beijing, as well as the Sanxingdui Ruins in Sichuan, and the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor in Shaanxi.

Compared with other public parks, the archaeological nature of these parks is their most recognizable trait. According to Guan Qiang, deputy head of the NCHA, these parks have now become irreplaceable locations for the exhibition of the long history and illustrious civilization of the Chinese nation.

However, the development of these parks is faced with obstacles. For instance, the report noted that professionals are much needed to improve management, advance research and enhance brand image, so as to facilitate the parks' high-quality development.

In the meantime, as cultural consumption and the culture economy develop, people are opting for more personalized and diversified cultural experiences of a higher quality. National archaeological site parks ought to fully grasp this trend and address the people's needs in this regard, said Li Qun, head of the NCHA.

National archaeological site parks are public cultural spaces shared by the people, and their development should always take into consideration this principle, Li said. 
Putin Pays Surprise Visit to Russian-Held Kherson, Luhansk: Kremlin

A road sign reading "Kherson" in the town of Armyansk in the north of the Moscow-annexed Crimean peninsula bordering the Russian-controlled Kherson region in southern Ukraine on Oct. 19, 2022. (Stringer/AFP via Getty Images)

Russian President Vladimir Putin paid an unannounced visit to the Russian-controlled regions of Kherson and Luhansk in Ukraine, where he met with top field commanders, the Kremlin said on April 18.

In a statement, the Kremlin said Putin had visited the headquarters of the Dnipro Group of Forces in the Kherson sector and the Vostok National Guard headquarters in the [Moscow-recognized] Luhansk Peoples Republic.

Last September, Russia effectively annexed Kherson and Luhanskand the neighboring regions of Donetsk and Zaporizhzhiaafter holding controversial referendums.

Kyiv and its Western allies reject the move as illegitimate and demand that Moscow relinquish all seized territories.

It is still unnown when exactly Putin visited Kherson and Luhansk. But according to Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, it was on April 17.

The trip took place yesterday, Peskov told reporters on April 18, adding that Putin was visiting the new regions with increasing frequency.

He inspects headquarters and receives operational information on the spot about the progress of the special military operation, Peskov said.

When asked about Putins assessment of the military situation, the spokesman declined to provide any details.

This is the prerogative of the Defense Ministry, he said.

Mykhailo Podolyak, an advisor to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, derided Putins reported visit to this front.

Speaking on Twitter, Podolyak described the unannounced visit as a special tour [by] the mass murders author to the occupied and ruined territories to enjoy the crimes of his minions for the last time.

Kyiv and its allies accuse Russian forces of committing war crimes in areas under their controlallegations that Moscow denies.

Last month, Putin paid a visit to Donetsks city of Mariupol and the Black Sea region of Crimea, which Moscow similarly annexed in 2014.

Service members of the Russian airborne forces sit in an Ilyushin Il-76 transport plane before their departure as they take part in drills at a military airport in the Azov Sea port of Taganrog, Russia, on April 22, 2021. (Reuters/Stringer)

Putin Meets Airborne Commander

During his visit to Kherson, Putin met with several military commanders, according to the Kremlin.

These reportedly included Colonel-General Mikhail Teplinsky, appointed commander of Russias elite airborne corps last year.

Teplinsky previously served in Chechnya in Russias northern Caucasus region. He has also served in Transnistria, a Russian-administered enclave of Moldova.

In its daily briefing for April 16, the British Defense Ministry described Teplinsky as one of the few senior Russian generals widely respected by the rank-and-file.

Teplinsky recently came in for praise by Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of Russias Wagner Group, a Kremlin-linked military company that has spearheaded the fighting in Donetsk.

Last month, Prigozhin, known for his high-profile quarrels with Russias top brass, described Teplinsky as competent, uncompromising, and fearless.

In November, Russian forces withdrew from northern Kherson, including its regional capital, to the southeastern bank of the Dnipro River.

At the time, Kyiv hailed the Russian pullout as a turning point in the conflict. Moscow portrayed the move as a strategic withdrawal to more defensible positions.

Russian forces are now said to control roughly 70 percent of Kherson.

The region is of vital strategic importance since it links the Ukrainian mainland with the Crimean Peninsula, the recapture of which remains a longstanding goal of Kyiv and its Western supporters.

Ukraines military servicemen sit in the back of an army truck in the Donetsk region town of Avdiivka, on the eastern Ukraine front line with Russia-backed separatists on Feb. 21, 2022. (Aleksey Filippov/AFP via Getty Images)

Zelenskyy Visits Troops in Avdiivka

After visiting Kherson, Putin reportedly traveled by helicopter to Luhansk, where he met with commanders at the eastern headquarters of Russias National Guard.

Luhansk and Donetsk comprise the Russian-speaking Donbas region, which remains the primary focus of Moscows invasion now in its second year.

According to Peskov, Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu and Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov attended the meetings in Kherson and Luhansk via teleconference.

When asked why the two men had not accompanied Putin in person, Peskov said: Its hardly expedient for the supreme commander-in-chief, the defense minister, and the chief of General Staff to gather in one place, and thus tempt the enemy.

Not to be outdone, on April 18, Zelenskyy visited Ukrainian troops in Donetsks town of Avdiivkathe scene of fierce fightingwhere he was similarly briefed on developments in the field.

According to a statement released by his office, Zelenskyy doled out awards and thanked the troops for your service, for defending our land, Ukraine, and our families.

Moscow launched its special military operation early last year to protect Russian speakers in the Donbas region and halt the eastward expansion of NATO.

For their part, Kyiv and its Western allies regard the move as an unprovoked war of aggression.

Reuters contributed to this report.
REI to Close Portland Location Amid Highest Number of Break-Ins and Thefts in Two Decades

A Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI) store in Portland, Oregon, is closing amid soaring crime in the area.

REI sent an emailed statement to members of its business co-operative, informing them that their store location in Portlands Pearl District would close early next year.

The safety of our employees, members and customers is always our number one priority, REI statement reads. In recent years, Portland has been dealing with increased crime in our neighborhood and beyond. Last year, REI Portland had its highest number of break-ins and thefts in two decades, despite actions to provide extra security.

REI said it has also outgrown the Pearl District location and as a result are not able to provide the level of customer and employee experience we strive for at REI.

For these reasons, we are no longer confident in our ability to serve you in this location, the business said.

REI said it is considering new locations in the Portland area but directed its customer base to its existing locations in Tualatin, Hillsboro, and Clackamas for the time being.

Retailers Leaving Portland

REI is not the only business being hindered by crime in Portland. Other businesses have also left the city amid crime concerns.

In November, Rains PDX announced its permanent closure in Portland, specifically saying our city is in peril.

Small businesses (and large) cannot sustain doing business, in our citys current state, Rains PDX said in a notice posted on its store window. We have no protection, or recourse, against the criminal behavior that goes unpunished. Do not be fooled into thinking that insurance companies cover losses. We have sustained 15 break-ins  we have not received any financial reimbursement since the 3rd.

In February, Walmart announced plans to close all of its Portland area locations after a review of store performances in those locations. A Walmart spokesperson said at the time that the performance assessment considered several factors like financial performance, location, population, customer needs, and the proximity of other nearby stores before making the decision to close the Portland locations. Walmart did not specifically cite crime in its decision to close the Portland locations, but in a December interview with CNBC, Walmart CEO Doug McMillon said theft is an issue that could lead to price increases and store closures.

Mayor Trying to Keep REI

Portland Mayor Ted Wheelers office said they are committed to keeping REIs business in Portland and has already worked with the retailer in recent months to address rising retail theft, vandalism, and other safety concerns around the storefront.

The Portland Police Bureau and other public safety partners worked with REI directly to execute a retail theft mission at their Pearl location and developed proactive safety measures, including authorizing temporary security camera trailers at their loading dock and protective measures toward the front of their store, Wheelers office said in an emailed statement to NTD News. Last week, Governor [Tina] Kotek and Mayor Wheeler announced a shared commitment to advocate that the Oregon legislature increase capacity at [the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training] to help get newly hired police officers on the streets more quickly. The Citys Street Services Coordination Center has worked to clean up areas near the retail store to ensure customers and staff can safely visit the location.

Mayor Wheeler is committed to further supporting REI to help ensure we retain their business in Portland and help them succeed, the mayors office added. All options are on the table as we explore paths forward.

In November, KGW8 reported that Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt had prosecuted 46 percent of theft cases involving less than $1,000 in goods in 2022, compared to a 93 percent prosecution rate for such offenses in neighboring Washington County and an 84 percent prosecution rate in Clackamas County.

NTD News reached out to Schmidts office for comment but did not receive a response before this article was published.

From NTD News
Rep. Gosar Says HHS Officials Ignorance of Child Placement Statistics Is Unacceptable

Rep. Paul Gosar (R-Ariz.) was thoroughly dissatisfied on April 18 with a Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) officials responses regarding the resettlement of unaccompanied illegal immigrant children.

I find it very unacceptable, your performance this morning, Gosar told Robin Dunn Marcos, director of the HHS Administration of Children and Families Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR), at a hearing of the House Oversight and Accountability Subcommittee on National Security, the Border, and Foreign Affairs.

Gosars comments came amid an exchange in which he questioned Marcos about the vetting process for would-be sponsors of unaccompanied children.

In theory, if ORR is doing the job and actually vetting sponsors, they will have a statistically significant rejection rate, he posited. What is ORRs sponsor application rejection rate?

Dunn Marcos replied that she was not sure what the programs rejection rate wasa response Gosar found to be inadequate.

You know what, Ive got to stop you right there again, Gosar interjected. You knew you were coming into this hearing. You knew these numbers were going to be asked. This is inappropriate behavior of somebody of your caliber.  I find it a shame that you dont have these numbers in front of you.

The hearing was spurred by growing concerns for the safety of the unaccompanied illegal immigrant children being rehomed by the Biden administration following a Feb. 25 New York Times report stating that, in the past two years, HHS lost contact with more than 85,000 children who were placed with sponsors in the United States.

Lawmakers grilled Marcos on that figure, but she didnt provide a direct answer to those questions, noting that her office does not track or monitor children after they are placed but simply conducts follow-up phone calls that their sponsors may or may not choose to answer.

In another exchange, Rep. Scott Perry (R-Pa.) questioned whether the parents or legal guardians of unaccompanied children were being referred for criminal prosecution for child abandonment.

Marcos responded that her office was not tasked with law enforcement, but Perry pushed back, noting that he wasnt asking if she was enforcing the law but referring crimes to the proper authorities.

Lets face itthese children are coming and theyre unaccompanied because someone has abandoned them, he said. Why dont we refer charges for abandonment?  My goodness, if you saw somebody beating up some little kid on the street, wouldnt you call the police?

Of course, I would, Marcos replied.

Unfamiliar With Statistics

In March, HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra told members of the Senate Finance Committee that he was unfamiliar with the figures reported by The New York Times and that he had no idea where they came from.

Every week, I get briefed by my teamsometimes two or three times a weekon this situation with the unaccompanied minor kids and where we stand, Becerra noted in another exchange. Ive never heard that number of 85,000.  I would say it doesnt sound at all to be realistic.

Adding that HHS tries to follow up as best we can with children after they have been placed, the secretary stressed that his department does not have the power to do more.

Congress has given us certain authorities. Our authorities essentially end the moment we have found a suitable sponsor to place that child with, he said. We try to do some follow up, but neither the child nor the sponsor is obligated to follow up with us.

However, in announcing the hearing on April 11, Subcommittee Chairman Glenn Grothman (R-Wis.) asserted that the Biden administration was responsible for the abuse experienced by resettled children.

The Office of Refugee Resettlements negligence has contributed to migrant children being lost, released to sponsors not thoroughly vetted, exploited for illegal child labor in hazardous conditions, and in danger of being trafficked, he said in a statement. The Biden Administration has turned a blind eye to the dangers facing migrant children and must be held accountable.
Rep. Jordan Files Response to Braggs Motion Amid Probe Into Trump Indictment

GOP lawmakers refute Bragg's assertions in remarks to The Epoch Times

(L) Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio), chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, on Capitol Hill in Washington, Feb. 1, 2023. (Drew Angerer/Getty Images); (R) Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg in New York City on April 4, 2023. (Kena Betancur/Getty Images)

The House Judiciary Committee and its chairman, Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio), on April 17 filed a response to a motion filed by Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg.

The filing comes amid a legal clash between Bragg and Jordan on whether Congress has the authority to investigate Braggs prosecution of former President Donald Trump.

It began when Bragg sued to halt a congressional subpoena from Jordan that sought the testimony of Mark Pomerantz, a former Manhattan prosecutor who led an investigation into Trumps finances.

In the 35-page filing (pdf), attorneys for the House Judiciary Committee and Jordan argued that Braggs lawsuit to quash Jordans subpoena violates the speech or debate clause in the U.S. Constitution.

The attorneys asserted that Jordans subpoena serves a valid legislative purpose and is therefore protected from any interference from the courts under the clause.

They also argued that Congress is within its authority to examine whether former Presidents are being subject to politically motivated state investigations and prosecutions due to the policies they advanced as President, and, if so, what legislative remedies may be appropriate.

Pomerantz, who had pushed for an indictment against Trump after having led a probe into the former presidents finances, left the Manhattan district attorneys office in February 2022 because Bragg initially decided not to pursue a criminal case against Trump. Pomerantz later released a memoir about the case.

After that, Bragg convened a New York grand jury that ultimately indicted Trump in late March for 34 felony counts of falsifying business records, to which the former president has pleaded not guilty.

On April 6, following a weeks-long probe into Braggs office before Trumps indictment on March 30, Jordan subpoenaed (pdf) Pomerantz to seek testimony from the former prosecutor as part of the House Judiciary Committees oversight of Braggs unprecedented indictment of a former U.S. president.

In response, Bragg filed a federal lawsuit on April 11 (pdf) seeking to nullify Jordans subpoena, which included an emergency request for a temporary restraining order on Jordan and an injunction to block the subpoenas enforcement. But on the same day, the court declined to enter Braggs emergency request into the record because of a lack of documentation and ordered a hearing on the matter. An initial hearing in the case is scheduled in the Southern District Court of New York for April 19.

GOP Lawmakers Refute Braggs Allegation of Threat to Federalism

Bragg, in his April 11 complaint (pdf), characterized the subpoena of Pomerantz as an unprecedently [sic] brazen and unconstitutional attack on Braggs prosecution and investigation of Trump.

That campaign is a direct threat to federalism and the sovereign interests of the State of New York, Bragg said in the complaint.

He also said that Jordan has no power under the Constitution to oversee state and local criminal matters and that he has no legitimate legislative purpose for issuing the subpoena.

The subpoena threatens the sovereign powers of the States, confidence in the secrecy of grand jury proceedings, and the integrity of an ongoing criminal prosecution, attorneys for Bragg argued. They said the congressional subpoena to Pomerantz marks the first time in our nations history that Congress has used its compulsory process to interfere with an ongoing state criminal case.

In a memorandum of law (pdf) to support Braggs lawsuit, filed on April 11, attorneys said the congressional subpoena both exceeds Congresss authority and obstructs New Yorks sovereign right to enforce its criminal law.

Lawmakers on the House Judiciary Committee disagreed with Braggs assertions.

Rep. Mike Johnson (R-La.), who is also the vice chairman of the House Republican Conference, told The Epoch Times that the House Judiciary Committee has an interest in probing Braggs case to make sure federal tax dollars are being spent appropriately.

Rep. Mike Johnson (R-La.), vice chairman of the House Republican Conference, attends the committees Victims of Violent Crime in Manhattan field hearing at Jacob K. Javits Federal Building, in New York City on April 17, 2023. (Chung I Ho/The Epoch Times)

Braggs office previously stated that some federal funding has gone into its investigation of Trump or the Trump Organization.

Our jurisdiction is limited largely to the use of federal funding, Johnson told The Epoch Times on April 17. We do have the power of the purse in the houseand at the end of the day, well be proposing legislative reforms that are meaningful and probably looking at some of the expenditure of these funds.

If some of that funding has been misspent or misapplied, then we have a responsibility as stewards of the taxpayers dollars to track that down and make sure that its not. Braggs office has admitted that theyve at least used some federal funding, for example, on the pursuit of Donald Trump, and so thats of interest to us.

Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-N.J.) echoed Johnsons view. He told The Epoch Times the House Judiciary Committee didnt violate any principles of federalism in issuing Pomerantz a subpoena.

Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-N.J.), Republican member of the House Judiciary Committee, attends the committees Victims of Violent Crime in Manhattan field hearing at Jacob K. Javits Federal Building, in New York City on April 17, 2023. (Chung I Ho/The Epoch Times)

Attorneys for Jordan and the House Judiciary Committee noted on April 17 that the committee started investigating Braggs office after concluding that the prospect of a politically motivated prosecution of a former President could give rise to issues of substantial federal concern.

They said that the federal government also has a substantial interest in the welfare of former Presidents.

Pomerantz is named as a defendant in Braggs lawsuit so that he may continue to abide by the Offices instruction without facing a risk of contempt proceedings, a spokesperson for the Manhattan district attorneys office told news outlets. The spokesperson also noted that Pomerantz previously indicated he would follow the Manhattan District Attorneys (DAs) offices instruction not to provide the committee with information or materials relating to his work in the DAs Office.

Pomerantz, in a declaration to the court filed on April 17 (pdf), noted that he wasnt involved in the decision to indict Trump.

In seeking the court to halt the congressional subpoena, Pomerantz wrote: Absent some relief from this Court, I will find myself in an impossible position.

If I refuse to provide information to the Committee, I risk being held in contempt of Congress and referred to the Department of Justice for possible criminal prosecution. If, on the other hand, I defy the District Attorneys instructions and answer questions, I face possible legal or ethical consequences, including criminal prosecution.

Correction: A previous version of this article incorrectly characterized the nature of the filing by attorneys for the House Judiciary Committee and Rep. Jordan. They filed a response to Manhattan DA Braggs motion in a lawsuit he filed against the committee and Jordan. The Epoch Times regrets the error.
Report: Fog on Georgia Runway When Former SEALs Plane Crashed

Signage outside of the JesupWayne County Airport, also known as William A. Zorn Airport, in Jesup, Ga., in May 2014. (Google Maps/Screenshot via The Epoch Times)

JESUP, Ga.There was fog on the ground at a rural Georgia airport when a small plane attempting to land crashed and killed its pilot, a chiropractor who had served in the U.S. military as a Navy SEAL, according to federal investigators.

But the preliminary report by the National Transportation Safety Board doesnt say what role the foggy conditions may have played in the April 6 crash that killed Howard Wasdin at the Jesup-Wayne County Airport in Wayne County, southwest of Savannah. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

The report says that airport workers told investigators there was fog on the runway when they arrived at the site about five minutes after the single-engine airplane crashed nearby. The NTSB report says the fog had limited visibility at the airport to about one-fourth of a mile.

Wasdin was flying himself home from Fernandina Beach, Florida, on an overcast morning and was trying to land when his Cirrus SR22 plane struck the ground about 1,200 foot from the runway, the NTSB said. Wasdin was killed by the impact.

Wasdin was a chiropractor in the county seat of Jesup. Before that, he served in the Navy as a member of the elite SEAL Team Six. In 2011, Wasdin co-authored a chronicle of his military service titled SEAL Team Six: Memoirs of an Elite Navy SEAL Sniper.

According to his website, Wasdin served 12 years in the Navy, including nine years as a SEAL. He was medically retired after being wounded in the 1993 battle in Mogadishu, Somalia, later featured in the book and film Black Hawk Down.
Republicans Accuse ATF of Overreach During Budget Hearing

WASHINGTON, DC - MAY 25: Former U.S. Attorney Steven Dettelbach testifies before the Senate Judiciary Committee during his confirmation hearing to be the next director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill on May 25, 2022 in Washington, DC. Nominated to lead the ATF by President Joe Biden, Dettelback's appointment faces resistance from gun lobby groups like the National Rifle Association, which is holding its annual meeting in Texas days after a gunman slaughtered 19 elementary school children and two teacher in that state. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

Steven Dettelbach, director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), said his agency trusts local law enforcement to help it conduct firearms traces legally.

We support police and trust police departments to submit traces when they relate to criminal investigations, he said.

Dettelbach testified before the House Committee on Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies during a budget hearing on April 18, 2023.

Bidens budget proposal contains $1.9 billion for the ATF. This represents a 13.6 percent increase over fiscal 2022 and half a billion more than the agencys fiscal 2020 budget. Included are funds to expand the agency personnel from 5,463 to 5,965, which would include 183 new agents.

The proposed budget would expand the ATF by 35.7 percentan overall expansion of more than 50 percent since the Obama administration.

Justin Barrett, owner of Barrett Outdoors in Durant, Okla., displays some pistol stabilizing braces. (Michael Clements/The Epoch Times)

Gun rights groups have criticized the proposed budget, claiming the ATF is using a zero tolerance policy to build an unconstitutional gun registry. Gun Owners of America (GOA) and others have asserted that ATF agents use unintentional clerical errors found during inspections as a pretext for shutting down gun dealers.

In the past, gun dealers were required to keep transaction records for only 20 years. The ATF has changed that to require the documents to be kept permanently.

When a shop closes, all its sales records are transferred to the government. GOA claims the ATF has aggregated these records into a central gun registry to track all firearms, whether they have been used in a crime or not.

Committee member Rep. Andrew Clyde (R-Ga.) asked Dettelbach how much ATF spends to digitize the records and whether the database they are building is searchable. Dettelbach could not provide an amount paid but said ATF follows guidelines set by Congress limiting when and how it can use the database to trace firearms.

Dettelbach told Clyde that the ATF receives millions of paper records each month that must be manually entered into the ATF computers.

We are, as far as I know, the only customer that pays additional money to have search function taken out of Adobe Acrobat, Dettelbach said.

Clyde pointed out that one of the limits sought by Congress is that traces can only be done to investigate a bona fide crime. He said information from the National Criminal Instant Background Check system showed traces for found firearms, health and safety, food and drug health and safety, and abortion, among others.

I dont see the crime here, Clyde said.

Dettelbach said traces are done for local law enforcement agencies and that ATF assumes they are part of criminal investigations.

We support police and trust the police department to submit traces when they relate to criminal investigations, Dettelbach said.

Dettelbach told the committee that the ATF needs to expand to properly fight gun crime under the policies of President Joe Bidens administration.

ATFs critical role in combating violent crime is contingent on Congress providing adequate funding to allow ATF to effectively implement the tools we have, Dettelbach told the committee in a written statement.

Instructor Tom Nguyen (L) watches Kelly Siu fire a pistol during Defensive Pistol Class at Burro Canyon Shooting Park in Azusa, Calif., on Feb. 12, 2023. (Frederic J. Brown/AFP via Getty Images)

Committee chairman Harold Rogers (R-Ky.) opened the hearing by saying, Many folks are justifiably concerned about sweeping, seemingly poorly reasoned new rules emanating from the ATF in recent months.

Several committee members questioned the director on the agencies flip-flopping on the issue of pistol stabilizing braces. The ATF changed its position several times over 10 years on whether the devices were legal under the National Firearms Act or if they converted legal pistols into illegal short-barreled rifles.

How is this not an attack on Americans Second Amendment rights, Rogers asked.

Dettelbach acknowledged there had been inconsistencies in the process. He said the agencies received numerous questions about the devices.

The braces had changed over time, he said, so ATF was making determinations based on the evolving designs. He repeated his claim that ATF was only following the law passed by Congress.

Congress Writes the Law

We are implementing the statute as passed by Congress, Dettelbach said.

Dettelbach said the budget increase is necessary to fully implement the recently passed Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA). He said the Act provides more robust tools for the ATF to fight gun crime.

This includes better technology for firearms tracking, combatting gun trafficking and preventing straw purchases, and better oversight of federal firearms license holders. He said any cuts to the ATF would impede local law enforcement agencies that depend on ATF for data and other support.

ATF cannot fully implement the BCSA in the way that Congress directed without receiving the appropriate level of funding, Dettelbach said.

Ranking member Rep. Matt Cartwright (D-Pa.) said there had been talk of cutting the ATF budget by up to 22 percent. He said this would effectively reduce the agencys funding to 2018 levels.

Citing statistics that mass shootings have doubled, and the number of children and teens killed by guns has risen by 42 percent since 2018, he said any cuts seem misguided.
Rules, Bilateral Ties the Key to Dealing With Beijing Challenge: Australian Foreign Minister

Australia's Shadow Foreign Affairs Minister Senator Penny Wong speaks to the media along side leader of the opposition, Anthony Albanese, in Melbourne, Australia, on May 18, 2021. (AAP Image/Daniel Pockett)

A strong rules-based order bound by bilateral ties is key to dealing with challenges from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and North Korea, says Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong.

Wong warned that the Indo-Pacific faced a critical test from powers wishing to create a closed, hierarchical region where the rules are dictated by a single major power to suit its own interests.

She said it was critical for Australia to understand that this competition was more than just a drive for military primacy over other countries.

It is more than great power rivalry and is, in fact, nothing less than a contest over the way our region and our world work, she told the National Press Club on April 17.

Coercive trade measures; unsustainable lending; political interference; disinformation; and reshaping international rules, standards, and norms that have benefited smaller countries, from trade to human rightsthese all encroach on the ability of countries to exercise their agency, contribute to regional balance and decide their own destinies.

The CCP Will Not Change, Australia Must Adapt

The foreign minister said that Australia must accept that Beijing will not change its behaviour. Therefore, the country must adapt its foreign policy to secure the region.

China uses every tool at its disposal to maximise its own resilience and influenceits domestic industry policy; its massive international investment in infrastructure, diplomacy, and military capability; access to its markets, Wong said.

Yet we need not waste energy with shock or outrage at China. Instead, we channel our energy in pressing for our own advantage.

To do this, Wong said the Albanese government will use all branches of government to shape a region that is open, stable and prosperous.

A predictable region operating by agreed rules, standards, and laws. Where no country dominates, and no country is dominated. A region where sovereignty is respected, and all countries benefit from a strategic equilibrium, she said.

To facilitate this, Wong said the federal government will actively pursue bilateral, regional, and international partnerships within the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), the Association of South East Asian States (ASEAN), the QUAD, and AUKUS.

Minister Issues Veiled Warning on Pacific Incursion

Wong also issued a veiled warning to Beijing about interfering in the Pacific.

Anyone who questions the strategic importance of Pacific Islands to Australias security needs only acquire the briefest familiarity with history, she said. While our strategic circumstances have changed in the last 50 years, our geography has not, and nor has the centrality of the Pacific to our own security.

The Albanese government has, in the past 11 months, signed or is in the process of signing a tranche of new bilateral agreements with Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, and Fiji.

They have also expanded pathways for Pacific worker migration to Australia and increased development aid by $900 billion (US$603 billion) to be spent over the next four years.

Wong noted that Australia was focusing its foreign security policy on the Pacific region to help the Pacific family stay united.

We make our concerns clear when countries dont respect Pacific institutions, when they impose unsustainable debt burdens, or when announcements arent followed by a delivery that benefits communities.

Beijing has engaged in a diplomatic offensive in the region in recent years. Notably in April 2022, the CCP signed a security deal with the government of the Solomon Islandsa deal described by Washington D.C. as alarming.

Following this, New Zealand Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta expressed concern about infrastructure deals in the region funded by Beijing-linked organisations.

The Pacific Island Forum and the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific have found (pdf) that most of the regions debt is held by China and the Asian Development BankPacific governments are estimated to owe China an estimated US$1.6 billion.

Theres a level of indebtedness that sits across the whole of the Pacific to financial institutions, including the way in which China has funded into certain countries, Mahuta said. This is a key area of vulnerability that should be addressed.

Wong Presses Beijing to Keep Communication Open

Meanwhile, Wong also called on Beijing to accept the Biden Administrations accept conditions to maintain lines of communication between the two countries.

Previously utilised during the Cold War, guardrails are used to help keep strategic competition open between countries to prevent full-blown conflict through miscommunication.

U.S. President Joe Biden and CCP leader Xi Jinping did agree to establish high-level talks in Bali on the sidelines of the G20 meeting in 2022.

However, these meetings have been delayed after Beijing sent a surveillance balloon over American territory, forcing U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who was then scheduled to visit China for guardrail talks, to cancel his trip.
Scottish National Party Treasurer Arrested in Party Finance Probe

Undated handout photo of SNP treasurer Colin Beattie, issued by the Scottish Parliament on April 18, 2023. (Andrew Cowan/Scottish Parliament via PA Media)

Scottish National Party (SNP) treasurer Colin Beattie has been arrested in connection with a police investigation into the partys finances.

Police Scotland said the 71-year-old was taken into custody on Tuesday and is being questioned by detectives as a suspect in connection with the ongoing investigation into the funding and finances of the Scottish National Party.

Beattie became the SNPs national treasurer in 2004, but lost the position to MP Douglas Chapman in 2020.

Beattie reclaimed the post in 2021 after the resignation of Chapman, who claimed he was not being given the required information to carry out the job.

This is the second arrest in the investigation into how more than 600,000 in donations to Scotlands ruling party earmarked for an independence referendum had been used.

Nicola Sturgeon, then SNP leader and Scottish first minister, and husband Peter Murrell pose after casting their votes in the 2019 General Election at Broomhouse Park Community Hall, Glasgow, Scotland, on Dec. 12, 2019. (Andrew Milligan/PA Media)

Earlier this month, former SNP Chief Executive Peter Murrellhusband of Scotlands former First Minister Nicola Sturgeonwas arrested and questioned for more than 11 hours before being released without charge pending further investigation.

A luxury motorhome was seized by police from outside a property in Dunfermline on the same morning that Murrell was arrested.

Ongoing Investigation

A Police Scotland statement said: A 71-year-old man has today, Tuesday, 18 April 2023, been arrested as a suspect in connection with the ongoing investigation into the funding and finances of the Scottish National Party.

The man is in custody and is being questioned by Police Scotland detectives.

A report will be sent to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service.

The matter is active for the purposes of the Contempt of Court Act 1981 and the public are therefore advised to exercise caution if discussing it on social media.

As the investigation is ongoing we are unable to comment further.

A spokesperson for the SNP said, We have no comment on a live police investigation.

Party Donations

The police investigation into the SNPs finances began in July 2021, following complaints about how donations given to the party for use in a fresh independence referendum campaign had been used.

Two SNP MPs had quit the partys National Executive Committee (NEC) in May that year, citing a lack of transparency.

But the SNP leadership strongly denied claims the money raised for independence campaigning was diverted elsewhere.

Sturgeon, who was then first minister and SNP leader, insisted she was not concerned about the partys finances and that every penny of cash raised in online crowdfunding campaigns would be spent on the independence drive.

The party said it raised a total of 666,953 through referendum-related appeals between 2017 and 2020.

But questions were raised after its accounts showed it had just under 97,000 in the bank at the end of 2019, and total net assets of about 272,000.

It emerged last year that Murrell had loaned the SNP 107,620 in June 2021. An SNP spokesman said at the time that the loan was a personal contribution made by the chief executive to assist with cash flow after the Holyrood election.

Speaking on April 8 about her husbands arrest, Sturgeon said she couldnt comment on an ongoing investigation, and would fully cooperate with it.

Not Close to Bankruptcy

Earlier this month, accounting firm Johnston Carmichael confirmed reports that it had resigned as SNPs auditor.

Humza Yousaf, who recently became SNP leader and Scottish first minister after Sturgeons resignation, told STV News on April 11 that the auditor had quit around October last year, and that he had only found out after winning the leadership contest last month.

Following an SNP NEC meeting on April 15, Yousaf told reporters that his party is solvent and not close to bankruptcy.

Yousaf said the meeting had been positive and there were no resignations, and that agreement was reached to hold a governance and transparency review.

Leaked Video

On April 16, the Sunday Mail published a video, which appears to show Sturgeon addressing a meeting of the NEC.

The then-first minister told the NEC the party had never been in a stronger financial position than it is now.

She warned committee members, Just be very careful about suggestions that there are problems with the partys finances because we depend on donors to donatethere are no reasons for people to be concerned about the partys finances and all of us need to be careful about suggesting that there is.

The video was reportedly from a meeting of the ruling body in March 2021, days before a complaint was made to police about the partys finances.

After the video surfaced, the Scottish Conservatives led calls for the SNP to suspend Sturgeon from the party.

But Yousaf said on Monday that he is not disturbed by the video.

He said there was no case for Sturgeon to be suspended as an SNP member and he does not think she would resign as a member of the Scottish Parliament.

Lily Zhou and PA Media contributed to this report.
Senate GOP to Block Democrats Plan to Temporarily Replace Feinstein on Judiciary Committee

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) speaks during a news conference at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., on March 7, 2023. (Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

It appears that the 11 GOP votes needed to join all present Senate Democrats in temporarily replacing Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) on the Senate Judiciary Committee are not there.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) has proposed a resolution that would put a Democrat on the committee to temporarily take Feinsteins seat given the senators weeks-long absence as she has been dealing with shingles. Feinstein has reportedly agreed to this move. However, with Democrats controlling the Senate, 5049, such a resolution will need the support of 11 Republicans in order to overcome a filibuster. Schumer has said he will try to have the resolution passed via unanimous consent, which any one member can object to.

Usually, committee assignments, which are finalized via resolution, get green-lit by the Senate by unanimous consent and very little fanfare.

The stated reason, the supposed emergency, is that Senate Democrats are unable to push through the small fraction of their nominees who are so extreme and unqualified that they cannot win a single Republican vote, said Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) on the Senate floor on April 18.

Senate Republicans will not take part in sidelining a temporarily absent colleague off a committee just so Democrats can force through their very worst nominee, McConnell added.

McConnell was joined by other Republicans in the chamber.

I will vote against any attempt by Senate Democrats to temporarily replace Sen. Feinstein on the Judiciary Committee. I deeply respect Senator Feinstein, but this is an unprecedented request solely intended to appease those pushing for radical, activist judges. This is especially concerning as Senate Democrats seek to end the bipartisan blue slip process so they can bypass advice and consent with home state senators and ram through left-wing judges, posted Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) on Twitter on April 17.

Sen. Feinstein has been an extraordinary senator and shes a good friend of mine. During the last two years, theres been a concerted campaign to force her off the judiciary committee, and I will have no part of that, said Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine).

I dont think there is any appetite on our side to help what we consider to be controversial or unqualified nominees to get confirmed, said Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas).

There are currently 77 federal judicial vacancies with 35 nominees awaiting confirmation. President Joe Biden got 97 judges confirmed in his first two years as president.

Feinstein, 89, has been in the Senate since 1992 and recently announced she will not run for re-election in 2024.

Although the Senate Judiciary Committee is deadlocked 1010, Schumer could hypothetically bring up the judicial nominees without having them being voted on in the committee as long as no Democrats join all Republicans in opposition. Committee votes on nominees, judicial and otherwise, are not constitutionally required. While there is the committee tradition of the blue slip from the senators of a nominees home state, it is not a requirement.
Why Americas elites grovel before communist Chinathats the million-dollar question raised and answered by David Kupelian, vice president and managing editor of online news giant WorldNetDaily.

Joining Larry Elder, Kupelian discusses the Chinese Communist Partys long-term thinking and desire to become the global hegemon, as well as its explicit atheism and totalitarianism. Atheistic means theres no God, the government is God, they are the controlling authority of everything, he said. And so they want to rule the world.

Kupelian argues that many American elites are infatuated with Chinas dictatorship and that Americas dealings with China are usually motivated by money, often at the expense of serious human rights concerns. He suggests that America needs to elect leaders who love the country and believe in the Constitution and that a free press is necessary to hold those in power accountable.

Didnt the United States withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO) during the Trump administration? It turns out that the withdrawal was halted by Joe Biden. According to Reggie Littlejohn, Founder and President of Womens Rights Without Frontiers, the WHOs plans pose an existential threat to American sovereignty and personal medical freedom.

Joining Elder, Littlejohn explains what she calls a digital gulag that has been tried out in China and expanded to the rest of the world, including America.

She says the WHO is negotiating two instruments that would allow it to go into any country, including the United States, and mandate things like vaccines, which would abrogate national sovereignty and personal medical independence. Additionally, the U.S. Congress passed the National Defense Authorization Act, which obligates the United States to comply with anything passed by the WHO.

She also discusses central bank digital currencies, which would allow the government to know every transaction and programmatically control spending, potentially allowing the enforcement of vaccine requirements. She encourages people to take action through the Sovereignty Coalition website to alert Congress to the issue.

The Larry Elder Show is sponsored by Birch Gold Group. Protect your IRA or 401(k) with precious metals today: http://larryforgold.com/
TUNIS, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Tunisia's Islamist party Ennahdha said on Monday evening that Tunisian security arrested its leader Rached Ghannouchi.

"Security units raided the house of the Ennahdha leader and transferred him to an unknown destination," according to a statement on Ghannouchi's official Facebook page.

Ghannouchi's lawyer Mokhtar Jamai said that he did not know the reason for his client's arrest, the private radio station Mosaique FM reported.

Ennahdha was the largest party in the previous parliament that was dissolved by Tunisian President Kais Saied in July 2021.

81-year-old Ghannouchi is facing several charges, including financial corruption, money laundering, terrorism, and assassinations. 
Southern California Travelers Affected by Nationwide Southwest Airlines Delay

Southwest Airlines staff tend the counter in the check in area, at Los Angeles International Airport on Dec. 28, 2022. (Robyn Beck/AFP via Getty Images)

LOS ANGELESAnother bout with technology issues led to delays of hundreds of Southwest Airlines flights April 18 in Southern California and across the country, exacerbating public-perception issues for an airline still recovering from a holiday season computer meltdown that crippled the carrier.

Dozens of flights were listed as delayed at Los Angeles International, Hollywood Burbank, John Wayne, and Ontario International airports.

In a statement, Southwest Airlines said it was forced to pause its operations Tuesday morning to work through data connection issues resulting from a firewall failure.

Early this morning, a vendor-supplied firewall went down and connection to some operational data was unexpectedly lost, the Southwest statement said. Southwest teams worked quickly to minimize flight disruptions.

At the airlines request, the Federal Aviation Administration issued a brief ground stop for all Southwest flightsmeaning any planes that had not yet taken off were forced to remain on the ground while the issues were being resolved.

The ground stop was lifted by shortly after 8 a.m., but delays were likely to continue throughout the day as the airline works to catch up.

Tuesday mornings issues were reminiscent of the technological issues that largely crippled Southwests operations over the December holiday period, leading to the cancellation of thousands of flights over the course of a week and delays in thousands more. The issues left thousands of travelers stranded, unable to reach their destinations in one of the busiest travel periods of the year.

Southwest CEO Bob Jordan issued a video apology to travelers at the time and vowed the airline would be making improvements to avoid a repeat of the holiday meltdown.
Some Americans cannot receive another COVID-19 vaccine dose, U.S. regulators said on April 18, as they made sweeping changes to the vaccine system.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced the changes, including replacing the old Pfizer and Moderna vaccines with updated bivalent shots that had previously only been available as boosters.

Regulators are also scaling back the number of recommended doses for most individuals, including people who havent received a shot.

Key changes include:

Most unvaccinated Americans are still being encouraged to get a COVID-19 vaccine but only need a single dose of a bivalent, the FDA said. The exception is young children. Children aged 6 months through 5 years can receive two doses of Modernas bivalent while those aged 6 months through 4 years can get three doses of Pfizers bivalent.

Americans who have received a primary series of a COVID-19 vaccine and one of the bivalent boosters still cannot get an additional dose, unless theyre in certain groups.

Any individual 65 years old or older can receive a bivalent dose, even if theyve already received one, provided four months or more has elapsed since their last shot.

People aged 5 and older and deemed immune compromised can get another bivalent at least two months after their last shot, even if it was a bivalent, and can get additional doses at the discretion of, and at intervals determined by, their healthcare provider.

Little Data to Support Bivalents

The FDA authorized the original vaccines in late 2020 based on clinical trial efficacy data. The original vaccines targeted the Wuhan virus strain, which hasnt circulated since 2020.

The updated bivalents target the Wuhan strain and the BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants of the Omicron strain. The subvariants were displaced in 2022.

Regulators authorized the bivalents as boosters in 2022 despite no clinical trial data being available. In letters formally announcing the bivalents as replacing the old vaccines, the FDA made clear that scientists arent sure whether the bivalents protect against COVID-19.

Based on the totality of the scientific evidence available, FDA concluded that it is reasonable to believe that Pfizer-BioNTech COVID19 Vaccine, Bivalent may be effective in individuals 6 months of age and older for the prevention of COVID-19, the letter to Pfizer states. The same language was used for Modernas shot.

Most of the data supporting Pfizers expanded authorization comes from the old vaccines and a bivalent that has never been used in the United States. The only trial data for the available bivalent showed that children had higher levels of neutralizing antibodies when they received a bivalent. Antibodies are thought to protect against COVID-19.

No clinical trial data for Modernas shot was cited, and no efficacy data was cited for either vaccine.

Dr. Peter Marks, a top FDA vaccine official, claimed in a briefing that the available data continue [to] demonstrate that vaccines prevent all serious outcomes from COVID-19, including hospitalization and death. Its not clear which data he was citing, and the FDA did not respond to a request for comment.

The FDA cited a single observational study in its letter to Pfizer. English researchers reported in The Lancet that vaccination with an old vaccine in addition to previous infection provided strong protection against symptomatic COVID-19 through March 2022. Other research has found that prior infection alone is as good as or better than vaccination.

Other observational studies have found the updated vaccines provide transient protection against hospitalization and poor protection against infection.

Seroprevalence data indicates a majority of Americans have recovered from COVID-19, the FDA noted. Thats an important acknowledgement, Dr. Monica Gandhi, a professor of medicine at the University of CaliforniaSan Francisco, told The Epoch Times in an email.

Gandhi said she agrees that only the elderly and immune suppressed should receive another dose, as opposed to the entire population. Dr. Harvey Risch, professor emeritus of epidemiology at the Yale School of Public Health, said that he sees the vaccines as largely unnecessary.

The current vaccines are out-of-date, any new ones will be out-of-date by the time they are generally available, and mostly everybody already has SARS-CoV-2 antibodies anyway, Risch told The Epoch Times via email. At this point, the vaccines are thus not generally useful products for serving a public health function.

Change Made to Boost Uptake

Uptake of the vaccines was high after they were authorized, but has dropped considerably since. Just 16.7 percent of the U.S. population has received a bivalent shot, compared to 69.4 percent who received a primary series of the old vaccine.

FDA officials said the changes announced on April 18 were made to simplify the vaccine composition, reduce the complexity of the available doses, and increase uptake.

This approach will help us achieve higher vaccination coverage across the country, Marks told reporters. If anything comes out of this action, were hoping that it can encourage people who have not received the bivalent booster to go out and consider getting one.

The newly rolled out system is for the spring, as officials are planning to meet over the summer to discuss a fall regimen. They plan to adapt COVID-19 vaccines to the influenza model, updating strains in the vaccines each year.

Advisers to the agency backed the pivot to bivalents in a January discussion. Some said they favor updating the strains in the future.

Correction: A previous version of this article incorrectly spelled Dr. Gandhis name. The Epoch Times regrets the error.
Southern Baptist Ethics Leader Calls for Gun Control Measures in Tennessee

Brent Leatherwood, president of the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC) of the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC). (Courtesy of SRLC)

The leader of the policy arm of the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) and former executive director of the Tennessee Republican Party is calling on Tennessee leaders to enact gun control laws in the wake of The Covenant School shooting.

The Covenant School tragedy was the worst school shooting in our states history. I am asking that you take steps now to ensure no school in Tennessee ever has to endure our nightmare again, said Brent Leatherwood, president of the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC).

Leatherwood wrote a letter (pdf) to Republican leaders Gov. Bill Lee, Lt. Governor Randy McNally, and state House Speaker Cameron Sexton along with all other members of the legislature this week. The SBC and ERLC are both based in Nashville.

I write to you today with a heavy heart as a friend, ally, former colleague and competitor in the electoral arena, a fellow Tennessean, the president of the public policy arm of the Southern Baptist Convention, and a father of three children who attend the Covenant School, he wrote.

Leatherwood praised the public displays of support for the school his family cherishes, while also applauding bipartisan school safety legislation and current budget proposals to increase school safety at public and private schools.

The Covenant Presbyterian Church steeple sticks above the tree line as mourners reflect and leave mementos at the makeshift memorial for the six killed at The Covenant School shooting on March 27. The school and church are connected to one another atop the hill. (Chase Smith/The Epoch Times)

Leatherwood noted toward the end of his letter that Southern Baptists comprise over one-fifth of the population of Tennesseewith its churches dotting its landscape.

Opposition

Leatherwood in his letter addressed the fact that there would be objections and opposition to gun control policies in Tennessee. SBC is known for typically having conservative views on many political issues and some SBC members pushed back on social media.

Undoubtedly, there will be some objections or hesitations, he wrote. Policy-making is never easy, but let me offer some thoughts to quell those concerns so that a path forward may be revealed.

Those objections were prevalent in the responses to a tweet from Leatherwood linking to news of his lettersome even calling on the defunding of the ERLC.

Glad to know I dont have to worry about renewing my ERLC donations any time soon, another person wrote on Twitter.

I am a Southern Baptist and the proposed policy is a bad one. Dont bring our denomination into the gun debate, one man wrote.

Some responded in stronger terms and by criticizing other stances of the SBC and ERLC.

Now is the time for wolves like you who oppose abortion bills but then support violating our rights to repent and step down, a man wrote.

Why have you inserted the SBC into this fight? Promoting more division in the Christian Community when we are losing members right and left. I would say Satan has his hand in your stance, a different commenter stated.

The latter section of the letter offers thoughts to quell those concerns including stating the proposal was about helping individuals in distress, valuing life, preventing erosion of fundamental rights, and restraining evil.

The flag atop the Tennessee State Capitol in Nashville flew at half-staff Wednesday, two days after six were killed at The Covenant School in a shooting. (Chase Smith/The Epoch Times)

This proposal allows a narrow expansion of order of protection laws that, rather than conflict, actually align with our Second Amendment rights, something that is very important to many Tennesseans, and to me personally as a gun owner, he said. Yes, it is true we live in a world tainted by terrible acts and deeds, but that is never an excuse for inaction. While it may not prevent every instance of this sort of violence, it will prevent some, and thereby save innocent lives. That should be more than enough reason to advance this proposal.

Opposition from conservatives in general about the governors plan has been mixed, with groups such as the Tennessee Firearms Association condemning what they say is essentially an attempt to create red flag laws and restrict the Second Amendment rights of Tennesseans.

Many Republicans have stated specifically that red flag laws are a nonstarter and would violate the due process rights of gun owners in Tennessee.

Lee proposed legislators create and pass an extreme risk protection order (ERPO) law last week, along with signing an executive order strengthening background checks.

Leatherwood praised the governors proposal for an ERPO law and said keeping law enforcement involved would respect the constitutional rights of citizens while ensuring full due process.

SBCs Previous Gun Control Resolutions

Leatherwood pointed to a 2022 resolution, which reaffirmed a 2018 resolution, that called on legislative action to reduce gun violence and mass shootings.

The 2018 resolution stated, in part: we call on federal, state, and local authorities to implement preventative measures that would reduce gun violence and mass shootings while operating in accordance with the Second Amendment of the United States Constitution.

The Southern Baptist Convention Headquarters in downtown Nashville, Tenn. as seen in 2022. (Google Maps/Screenshot via The Epoch Times)

Last years reaffirmation included similar wording as well as stating: we earnestly pray for our local, state, and federal leaders to recognize the seriousness of the ongoing threat of mass shootings throughout our society and to take concrete steps, towards solutions that uphold the dignity and value of every human life, especially the most vulnerable among us, and to minimize the threat of gun violence throughout our society.

Mr. Leatherwood was not available for an interview with The Epoch Times, with an ERLC press secretary stating he was not currently taking interviews at this time as hes still taking time away to process this grief with his family.
Southern California Gas Station Ransacked by Large Mob, None Arrested

A gas station in Southern California was looted and vandalized by a large group of young people on April 16 after a street takeover, leaving responding officers outnumbered with zero arrests.

Los Angeles Sheriffs Department (LASD) deputies returned to patrolling the area the next day.

Video footage shared by the Telegram channel group @police_frequency shows dozens of looters ransacking a mini-mart at the Arco gas station on Alondra Boulevard in Compton early that morning, stealing thousands of dollars of merchandise and causing damages while the stores clerk reportedly hid in the bathroom.

One video shows a masked man breaking the glass of the stores door and breaking in before a large group poured in behind him. Some individuals were also masked.

Some looters with smiles on their faces can be seen stealing from the stores fridges, items from behind the clerks registerincluding condoms and cigarettesas well as food and snacks. Another video shows shelves completely knocked over, with merchandise scattered on the ground, as people toppled over each other entering and leaving the store.

The sheriffs department will conduct an investigation into the looting, a spokesperson told The Epoch Times in an email.

About a block away from the store, LASD deputies told news outlets there were shots fired around the same time but no injuries were reported. Deputies also received calls of illegal street racing earlier in the night in the area, with two large street takeovers of about 500 people taking place near the looted store.

Reports of vandalism were also reported at a laundromat in the city around the same time after a separate street takeover nearby.

Its unclear whether the looters were Compton residents, but City Councilman Jonathan Bowers told a local news station they were likely outsiders.

I am totally disgusted, Bowers told ABC 7. Im just upside down behind this. These kids coming in our city and just destroying it like this. In my opinion, the city has not done enough to quell this issue. There are other alternatives and ways to deal with this and I feel like we put it on the back burner, and were dragging our feet as this thing is getting worse.

People with any information about the looting are urged to contact the sheriffs department.

LASD Compton Station didnt respond to a request for comment by press deadline.
Sudans Generals Battle for 3rd Day; Death Toll Soars to 185

KHARTOUM, SudanAs explosions and gunfire thundered outside, Sudanese in the capital Khartoum and other cities huddled in their homes for a third day Monday, while the army and a powerful rival force battled in the streets for control of the country.

At least 185 people have been killed and over 1,800 wounded since the fighting erupted, U.N. envoy Volker Perthes told reporters. The two sides are using tanks, artillery, and other heavy weapons in densely populated areas. Fighter jets swooped overhead and anti-aircraft fire lit up the skies as darkness fell.

The toll could be much higher because there are many bodies in the streets around central Khartoum that no one can reach because of the clashes. There has been no official word on how many civilians or combatants have been killed. The doctors syndicate earlier put the number of civilian deaths at 97.

The sudden outbreak of violence over the weekend between the nations two top generals, each backed by tens of thousands of heavily armed fighters, trapped millions of people in their homes or wherever they could find shelter, with supplies running low and several hospitals forced to shut down.

Top diplomats on four continents scrambled to broker a truce, and the U.N. Security Council was set to discuss the crisis.

Gunfire and shelling are everywhere, Awadeya Mahmoud Koko, head of a union for thousands of tea vendors and other food workers, said from her home in a southern district of Khartoum.

She said a shell stuck a neighbors house Sunday, killing at least three people. We couldnt take them to a hospital or bury them.

In central Khartoum, sustained gunfire erupted and white smoke rose near the main military headquarters, a major battle front. Nearby, at least 88 students and staffers have been trapped in the engineering college library at Khartoum University since the start of fighting, one of the students said in a video posted online Monday. One student was killed during clashes outside and another wounded, he said. They do not have food or water, he said, showing a room full of people sleeping on the floor.

Even in a country with a long history of military coups, the scenes of fighting in the capital and its adjoining city Omdurman across the Nile River were unprecedented. The turmoil comes just days before Sudanese were to celebrate Eid al-Fitr, the holiday marking the end of Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting.

The power struggle pits Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan, the commander of the armed forces, against Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, the head of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group. The former allies jointly orchestrated an October 2021 military coup. The violence has raised the specter of civil war just as Sudanese were trying to revive the drive for a democratic, civilian government after decades of military rule.

Under international pressure, Burhan and Dagalo had recently agreed to a framework agreement with political parties and pro-democracy groups, but the signing was repeatedly delayed as tensions rose over the integration of the RSF into the armed forces and the future chain of command.

The United States, the U.N., and others have called for a truce. Egypt, which backs Sudans military, and Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirateswhich forged close ties to the RSF in recent years as it sent thousands of fighters to support their war in Yemenhave also called for both sides to stand down.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi said late Monday that Cairo was in constant contact with both the army and the RSF, urging them to halt the fighting and return to negotiations.

But both generals have thus far dug in, demanding the others surrender.

The European Unions foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell wrote on Twitter that the EU ambassador to Sudan was assaulted in his own residency, without providing further details. EU officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Dagalo, whose forces grew out of the notorious Janjaweed militias in Sudans Darfur region, has portrayed himself as a defender of democracy and branded Burhan as the aggressor and a radical Islamist. Both generals have a long history of human rights abuses and their forces have cracked down on pro-democracy activists.

Heavy gunbattles raged in multiple parts of the capital and Omdurman, where the two sides have brought in tens of thousands of troops, positioning them in nearly every neighborhood.

Twelve hospitals in the capital area have been forcefully evacuated and are out of service because of attacks or power outages, the Sudan Doctors Syndicate said, out of a total of around 20 hospitals. Four other hospitals outside the capital have also shut down, it added in a statement late Monday.

Hadia Saeed said she and her three children were sheltering in one room on the ground floor of their home for fear of the shelling as gunfire rattled across their Bahri district in north Khartoum. They have food for a few more days, but after that we dont know what to do, she said.

Residents said fierce fighting with artillery and other heavy weapons raged Monday afternoon in the Gabra neighborhood southwest of Khartoum. People were trapped and screaming inside their homes, said Asmaa al-Toum, a physician living in the area.

Fighting has been particularly fierce around each sides main bases and at strategic government buildingsall of which are in residential areas.

The military on Monday claimed to have secured the main television building in Omdurman, fending off the RSF after days of fighting. State-run Sudan TV resumed broadcasting.

On Sunday, the RSF said it abandoned its main barracks and base, in Omdurman, which the armed forces had pounded with airstrikes. Online videos Monday purported to show the bodies of dozens of men said to be RSF fighters at the base, strewn over beds, the floor of a clinic and outside in a yard. The authenticity of the videos could not be confirmed independently.

The military and RSF were also fighting in most major centers around the country, including in the western Darfur region and parts of the north and the east, by the borders with Egypt and Ethiopia. Battles raged Monday around a strategic airbase in Merowe, some 350 kilometers (215 miles) northwest of the capital, with both sides claiming control of the facility.

Only four years ago, Sudan inspired hope after a popular uprising helped depose long-time autocratic leader Omar al-Bashir.

But the turmoil since, especially the 2021 coup, has frustrated the democracy drive and wrecked the economy. A third of the populationaround 16 million peoplenow depends on humanitarian assistance in the resource-rich nation, Africas third largest.

Save the Children, an international charity, said it has temporarily suspended most of its operations across Sudan. It said looters raided its offices in Darfur, stealing medical supplies, laptops, vehicles, and a refrigerator. The World Food Program suspended operations over the weekend after three employees were killed in Darfur, and the International Rescue Committee has also halted most operations.

With the United States, European Union, African, and Arab nations all calling for an end to fighting, the U.N. Security Council was to discuss the developments in Sudan. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said he was consulting with the Arab League, African Union and leaders in the region, urging anyone with influence to press for peace.

At a meeting of the Group of Seven wealthy nations in Japan on Monday, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the Sudanese want the military back in the barracks. They want democracy. They want the civilian-led government, Sudan needs to return to that path.

By Jack Jeffery and Samy Magdy
Supreme Court Sympathetic to Christian Mail Carrier Who Quit Over Sunday Deliveries

WASHINGTON, DC - FEBRUARY 5: Supreme Court Justices Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh attend the State of the Union address in the chamber of the U.S. House of Representatives at the U.S. Capitol Building on February 5, 2019 in Washington, DC. President Trump's second State of the Union address was postponed one week due to the partial government shutdown. (Photo by Doug Mills-Pool/Getty Images)

The Supreme Court seemed receptive April 18 to the arguments of an evangelical Christian mail carrier who quit the U.S. Postal Service after it refused to accommodate his wish not to work on the Sunday Sabbath.

Over the opposition of the Biden administration, the court agreed in January to take up the civil rights lawsuit of Gerald Groff, who began working as a mail carrier for the U.S. Postal Service in 2012.

The hearing of the case, which is of intense interest to faith communities and to a slew of lawmakers who filed friend-of-the-court briefs with the Supreme Court, comes as the court has become increasingly protective of First Amendment-based religious freedoms in recent years.

Some liberal commentators have expressed concern that the court may go too far in the case, possibly giving the religious what they perceive as too much power to dictate workplace policies.

The case is Groff v. DeJoy, court file 22-174. The respondent, Louis DeJoy, is the U.S. postmaster general.

Groff was what is called a rural carrier associate, meaning he filled in for absent career employees.

Groff worked at the Quarryville, Pennsylvania, post office until he transferred to the Holtwood post office in August 2016. The postal service initially tried to accommodate his request not to work on Sundays, but he quit in 2019 after the agency stopped exempting him from Sunday work. He sued, claiming the postal service discriminated against him by refusing to accommodate his religion. The suit went forward under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, which was originally passed in 1964, but was amended in 1972 to require employers to provide reasonable accommodation for religious employees.

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 3rd Circuit turned down Groffs appeal, finding that exempting him from working on Sundays, as he had asked, would have imposed an undue hardship on the postal service.

Title VII generally prohibits an employer from discriminating against an individual because of that individuals religion. The law defines religion to include all aspects of religious observance and practice, as well as belief, unless an employer demonstrates that he is unable to reasonably accommodate to an employees or prospective employees religious observance or practice without undue hardship on the conduct of the employers business.

But in 1977, the Supreme Court narrowed the application of the religious provision. In Trans World Airlines (TWA) v. Hardison (1977), the court held that an employer suffers an undue hardship in accommodating an employees religious exercise whenever doing so would require the employer to bear more than a de minimis cost.

The members of the Supreme Court spent much of the oral hearing on April 18 discussing the precise meaning of de minimis, a legal expression meaning too minor to be meaningful or taken into consideration.

Groffs attorney, Aaron Streett, told the justices during oral arguments on April 18 that TWA v. Hardison is a bad precedent because it violates the promise of Title VII that employees should not be forced to choose between their faith and their job.

This de minimis test makes a mockery of the English language, and no party truly defends it today, Streett said, urging the Supreme Court to interpret the phrase undue hardship according to its plain text to mean significant difficulty or expense.

The test that the government supports is little better than the test used in Hardison because it allows employers to deny accommodations far short of any fair meaning of undue hardship, the lawyer said.

The government believes undue hardship arises whenever there is lost efficiency, weekly payment of premium wages, or denial of a co-workers shift preference, so, for example, a diabetic employee could receive snack breaks  under the [Americans with Disabilities Act] but not prayer breaks under Title VII, for that might cause lost efficiency.

An employee could receive weekly leave for pregnancy checkups but not to attend Mass, for that might require denying a co-workers shift preference or paying premium wages, Streett said.

Theres no reason religious workers should receive lesser protection than those covered by other accommodation statutes, he said, adding that the court should establish a textual test for undue hardship.

U.S. Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar asked the justices not to entirely discard the Hardison precedent, which she said the courts have been using for decades when analyzing undue hardship under Title VII.

A clarification of what it actually means would be helpful, she said.

A substantial body of case law has developed to guide that context-dependent analysis, and that case law provides meaningful protection to religious observants, she said.

The other sides argument boils down to a claim that Hardison was wrong because it insufficiently protects religious employees, but such an argument should be directed to the policymakers of Congress, not the courts, Prelogar said.

Groffs job specifically required him to work on Sundays, so letting him take Sundays off would have violated his co-workers contractual rights at the post office, she said.

His absences created direct concrete burdens on other carriers who had to stay on their shifts longer to get the mail delivered, and this interfered with the timely delivery of mail and actually produced employee retention problems, with one carrier quitting and another carrier transferring and another carrier filing a union grievance.

That is an undue hardship under any reasonable standard, Prelogar said.

Justice Neil Gorsuch suggested to Prelogar that some courts have interpreted the de minimis standard incorrectly.

These courts have taken this de minimis language and run with it and say anything more than a trifling  will get the employer out of any concerns here, and thats wrong and we all agree thats wrongwhy cant we just say that and be done with it and be silent as to the rest of it?

Justice Elena Kagan asked the top government lawyer if she was saying some cases require an accommodation. Prelogar answered in the affirmative.

Kagan noted that there was some common ground between the two sides even though they may disagree on which cases require an accommodation.

So Im happy that we are all kumbaya-ing together, the justice quipped.

Justice Amy Coney Barrett suggested to Prelogar that the case could be returned to the lower courts which could be instructed that to be clear, de minimis doesnt mean trifling costs.

Justice Brett Kavanaugh asked Prelogar how the Supreme Court could deal with this case without destabilizing the law.

The solicitor general said the court could say that Hardison is an interpretation of undue hardship.

To the extent any courts out there are reading this literally to mean de minimis means you never have to accommodate, that is wrong, that is inconsistent with the current state of the law, and the Court makes clear thats not what Hardison meant, she said.

To preserve stability, the court needs to make clear that you dont need to redo all of the work thats been done for five decades under the Hardison standard as properly understood, Prelogar said.

In his rebuttal, Streett said the government has not given us any reason why religious employees should have less accommodation than all of those other individuals protected under the other statutes that share the same reasonable accommodation and undue hardship framework.

The Supreme Court is expected to rule in the case by June or July.
T. Rex Skeleton Sells for More Than $5 Million at Zurich Auction

Cyril Koller, CEO of auction house Koller, stands next to the head of the skeleton of a Tyrannosaurus rex named Trinity, during an auction in Zurich, Switzerland, on April 18, 2023. (Michael Buholzer/Keystone via AP)

BERN, SwitzerlandNearly 300 Tyrannosaurus rex bones that were dug up from three sites in the United States and assembled into a single skeleton sold Tuesday at an auction in Switzerland for 4.8 million francs ($5.3 million), below the expected price.

Crafted into an open-mouth pose, the T. rex skeleton measuring 11.6 meters long (38 feet long) and 3.9 meters high (12.8 feet) high came in under the anticipated range of 5 million to 8 million francs when it went under the hammer at the Koller auction house in Zurich.

Koller had said Tuesdays sale would be the first time such a T. rex skeleton would go up for auction in Europe. The composite skeleton, featuring 293 bones, was a showpiece of an auction that featured some 70 lots, and the skull was set up next to the auctioneers podium throughout.

It could be that it was a compositethat could be why the purists didnt go for it, Karl Green, the auction houses marketing director, said by phone. Its a fair price for the dino. I hope its going to be shown somewhere in public.

Green did not identify the buyer, but said it was a European private collector. Including the buyers premium and fees, the sale came to 5.5 million Swiss francs (about $6.1 million), Koller said.

Promoters said the composite T. rex, dubbed Trinity, was built from specimens retrieved from three sites in the Hell Creek and Lance Creek formations of Montana and Wyoming between 2008 and 2013.

Koller said original bone material comprised more than half of the restored skeleton. The auction house said the skull was particularly rare and also remarkably well-preserved.

When dinosaurs died in the Jurassic or Cretaceous periods, they often lost their heads during deposition (of the remains into rocks). In fact, most dinosaurs are found without their skulls, said Nils Knoetschke, a scientific adviser who was quoted in the auction catalog. But here we have truly original Tyrannosaurus skull bones that all originate from the same specimen.

The skeleton of a Tyrannosaurus rex named Trinity during a preview by auction house Koller at the Tonhalle Zurich concert hall in Zurich on March 29, 2023. (Michael Buholzer/Keystone via AP)

T. rex roamed the Earth between 65 and 67 million years ago. A study published two years ago in the journal Science estimated that about 2.5 billion of the dinosaurs ever lived. Hollywood movies such as the blockbuster Jurassic Park franchise have added to the public fascination with the carnivorous creature.

The two areas the bones for Trinity came from were also the source of other T. rex skeletons that were auctioned off, according to Koller: Chicagos Field Museum of Natural History bought Sue for $8.4 million over a quarter-century ago, and Stan sold for nearly $32 million three years ago.

Two years ago, a triceratops skeleton that the Guinness World Records declared as the worlds biggest, known as Big John, was sold for 6.6 million euros ($7.2 million) to a private collector at a Paris auction.

By Jamey Keaten
Homeowner Charged After Shooting Teen Who Went to Wrong House

KANSAS CITY, Mo.An 84-year-old man in Kansas City, Missouri, was charged Monday with first-degree assault for shooting a teen who mistakenly went to the mans home to pick up his younger brothers.

Prosecuting Attorney Zachary Thompson said at a news conference that there was a racial component Thursday night when Andrew Lester twice shot 16-year-old Ralph Yarl, who is recovering at home after being released from the hospital. But nothing in the charging documents says the shooting was racially motivated, Thompson clarified.

We understand how frustrating this has been but I can assure you the criminal justice system is working and will continue to work, Thompson said.

Yarl, an honor student and all-state band member, was supposed to pick up his two younger brothers when he approached the wrong house at roughly 10 p.m. Lester came to the door and shot Yarl in the foreheadthen shot him again, in the right forearm.

No words were exchanged before the shooting, the probable cause statement said. But afterward, as Yarl got up to run, he heard Lester yell, Dont come around here, the statement said.

Yarl ran to multiple homes asking for help before finding someone who would call the police, the statement said.

The civil rights attorneys for Yarls family, Ben Crump and Lee Merritt, said in a statement that President Joe Biden called Yarls family and offered prayers for Ralphs health and for justice.

Yarls supporters plan to hold a rally Tuesday evening in Kansas City.

The assault charge carries a penalty of up to life in prison. Lester also was charged with armed criminal action, which has a penalty range of three to 15 years in prison. Lester was not charged with a hate crime. Thompson said Missouris statute is considered a lesser felony than first-degree assault, and carries a less severe penalty.

Missouri is among roughly 30 states with Stand Your Ground laws, which allow for the use of deadly force in self-defense, but the prosecutor determined the shooting was not in self defense.

An arrest warrant was issued but Lester was not yet in custody, Thompson said.

Lester told police that he lives alone and had just gone to bed when he heard his doorbell, according to the probable cause statement. He said he picked up his gun and went to the door, where he saw a male pulling on the exterior storm door handle and thought someone was breaking in.

A number for Lester was not in service on Monday evening and it was not immediately clear whether he had an attorney to speak on his behalf.

The shooting happened in a middle class neighborhood in north Kansas City. Yarl didnt have a phone with him and went to the wrong block, his aunt, Faith Spoonmore, wrote on a GoFundMe page set up to help pay medical bills. By Monday afternoon, $1.4 million had been raised.

Police Chief Stacey Graves said that Yarls parents asked him to pick up his brothers at a home on 115th Terrace, but he mistakenly went to 115th Street, the Kansas City Star reported.

Yarl is a bass clarinetist who earned Missouri All-State Band honorable mention and who plays several instruments in the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra of Kansas City, Spoonmore wrote. A statement from the North Kansas City School District described Yarl as an excellent student and talented musician.

Spoonmore said Yarl is doing well physically but has a lot of trauma to overcome emotionally.

By Monday afternoon, the home where the shooting happened had been vandalized. Black spray-paint on the side of the house showed a heart with 16 in the middle. Eggs splattered the front windows and the door.
The Texas House passed a bipartisan proposal that could save Texans as much as 70 percent on the cost of some commonly used prescription medications.

House Bill 25, authored by state Rep. James Talarico (D), would create a program to import certain drugs from Canada.

Texans pay TWICE as much as Canadians for their prescription drugs, Talarico wrote in a Twitter post on April 12. But thats about to change. The Texas House just passed my bill to import cheap prescription drugs from Canada.

The proposed measure passed the House in an almost unanimous vote of 144-1, and four not voting. It was co-authored by Republican Reps. James Frank, Dustin Burrows, Stephanie Klick, and Democrat Rep. Toni Rose.

The goal of this bill is to safely import those cheap prescription drugs from Canada, so we save lives in our state. And the estimates are that we could save anywhere from 60 to 70 percent on the price of commonly used prescription drugs from asthma medication, blood pressure medication, and cancer drugsmedication that people need for themselves and their families, Talarico said during an interview on WFAAs Inside Texas Politics on Sunday.

Republican state Sen. Charles Perry is carrying the legislation in the Senate, where it is expected to pass with strong bipartisan support, according to Talarico.

Texas State Rep. James Talarico (D) discusses his bill to allow pharmacies to import prescription drugs from Canada on April 12, 2023. (Courtesy of Office of James Talarico)

Trump-Era Rule Paved the Way

Texas hopes to join more than a handful of states seeking to reduce medication costs for consumers by importing drugs from Canada.

In November 2020, then-President Donald Trump authorized the importation of drugs from Canada, clearing the way for states to implement programs that would bring lower-priced medications to consumers.

Several states, including Florida, Colorado, Maine, New Hampshire, New Mexico, and Vermont, have already established laws to implement programs for importing medications from Canada.

In order to participate in the program, each state must submit its proposal to the U.S. Health and Human Services (HHS) for certification. The proposal must meet the safety and cost-saving requirements under Section 804 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.

So far, the program has failed to be implemented despite support from 78 percent of Americans, Talarico said.

In late 2020, the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA), known as Big Pharma, opposed the drug importation program and sued HHS to block it.

PhRMA argued that the HHS and FDA actions would permit pharmacists and wholesalers to import certain prescription drugs from Canada into the United States without drug manufacturers authorization or oversight, presenting significant safety risks, according to the complaint, EndPoints News reported.

In February, District Judge Timothy Kelly in Washington, D.C., struck down Big Pharmas lawsuit and attempts to stop the importation of drugs from Canada (pdf).

Talarico believes if the bill becomes law in Texas, it will put pressure on President Joe Biden to finally approve this, pointing out that manyabout 250,000 Americansdie each year from not taking medications.

I urge President Biden to do the right thing here, he said. Get this approved and start saving lives.

Florida Sues Biden Administration Over Delays

In November 2020, Florida became the first state to file a proposal with HHS for the Canadian Drug Importation Program.

Then, in July 2021, the Federal Drug Administration was directed by the Biden administration to work with the states and Indian tribes to develop proposals and get the program moving forward.

But in late August 2022, after seeing no progress for nearly two years, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis sued the Biden administration for dragging its feet in responding to its proposal.

The case is being heard in a federal court in Tampa.
The 4-Point Game Plan for a Conservative President to Dismantle the Deep State That Undermined Trump

The exterior view of the south side of the White House is seen in Washington, D.C., on May 31, 2005. (Alex Wong/Getty Images)

Commentary

FIRST ON THE DAILY SIGNALA coalition of conservative leaders and former political appointees has compiled a game plan for the next conservative president to restructure the federal governments bureaucracy to make it more cost effective, high-performing, and accountable to the people.

The great challenge confronting a conservative president is the existential need for aggressive use of the vast powers of the executive branch to return powerincluding power currently held by the executive branchto the American people, Russ Vought, former director of the Office of Management and Budget under President Donald Trump, writes in the book Mandate for Leadership, compiled by the 2025 Presidential Transition Project. Copies of his report on the Executive Office of the President and the report on Central Personnel Agencies were provided exclusively to The Daily Signal for this article.

The Heritage Foundation helped launch the 2025 Presidential Transition Project (also known as Project 2025) to avoid the pitfalls Trump faced in 2017. The incoming president struggled to keep his promises to the American people, facing stiff headwinds from a hostile federal bureaucracy Trump often referred to as the deep state. The project aims to equip an incoming conservative president with policies to rein in this bureaucracy. (The Daily Signal is The Heritage Foundations news outlet.)

While the Constitution makes it abundantly clear that the executive power of the U.S. government is not vested in departments or agencies but in the president himself, Vought warns that a president today assumes office to find a sprawling federal bureaucracy that all too often is carrying out its own policy plans and preferencesor, worse yet, the policy plans and preferences of a radical, supposedly woke faction of the country.

Vought encourages some changes to the Executive Office of the President of the United Statesnotably the elimination of the pro-abortion and pro-transgender Gender Policy Councilbut the bulk of recommendations for combatting the deep state appear in the report on Central Personnel Agencies: Managing the Bureaucracy. Paul Dans, former chief of staff at the Office of Personnel Management under Trump and director of Project 2025 at The Heritage Foundation, co-wrote the report with Ronald Reagan-era OPM Director Donald Devine and Trump-era OPM staffer Dennis Dean Kirk, Project 2025s associate director for personnel policy.

Dans, Devine, and Kirk urge a future conservative president to reinstate many of Trumps executive orders and issue new ones. A future president should speed up the time it takes to discipline and fire employees; restrict the power of public-sector unions; bring the salaries of federal employees more in line with private-sector workers; reassign entrenched federal employees to Schedule F, thereby making them at-will and easier to fire; and work to prevent members of the outgoing administration from burrowing in.

The Status Quo

Dans, Devine, and Kirk trace the problem of unaccountable bureaucracy back to the progressive movement of the 20th century, which aimed to elevate professional and scientific bureaucrats. This had serious unintended consequences, such as making it difficult to reward good employees, hard to analyze applicants, and almost impossible to fire all but the most incompetent civil servants.

Federal employees often win big bonuses, even amid scandal, the authors warn. Veterans Administration executives who encouraged false reporting of waiting lists for hospital administration during the administration of Barack Obama nonetheless received outstanding ratings, for example. Pay increases have become automatic rather than based on performance.

To make matters worse, management cannot screen applicants for basic qualifications such as intelligence.

Under President Jimmy Carter, the Department of Justice and OPM lawyers signed a legal consent decree eliminating civil service IQ examinations, based on the claim that IQ tests discriminated on the basis of race. Courts have ruled that even without evidence of overt, intentional discrimination, such results might suggest discrimination, the authors note. Congress or a future administration will have to end the doctrine of disparate impact to resolve this problem.

An entrenched bureaucracy also hampers the will of the people.

While both Republican and Democratic administrations have aimed to infiltrate political appointees improperly into the high career civil service, Democratic efforts have tended to succeed because they require the cooperation of careerists, who generally lean heavily to the Left.

The Project 2025 authors, who have extensive experience in government, warn that career staff reserve excessive numbers of key policy positions as career reserved to deny them to political appointees. In practice, this means that Trumps appointees could not direct federal policy because entrenched staff from Obama undermined the duly-elected presidents initiatives. Career staff also dominate personnel evaluation boards and lead training efforts that can undermine the administrations goals.

1. Streamline the Firing Process

Firing bad employees requires a herculean effort, the authors note. They recommend restructuring the process of disciplining and terminating federal workers.

Trump signed an executive order in 2018 requiring agencies to speed up the process of correcting, disciplining, or firing employees who underperform, but President Joe Biden overturned that order. The report encourages reinstating it.

If a private-sector employee faces termination, he or she often has a simple two-step process to appeal it, while federal employees facing termination have a cornucopia of alphabet-soup options to appeal. They can appeal to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the Merit Systems Protection Board, the Federal Labor Relations Authority, or the Office of Special Counseland employees often shop for a friendly venue, the report notes.

A conservative president should streamline the process by making the Merit Systems Protection Board the main reviewer of adverse employment actions, the authors argue.

2. Curb Union Power

Public-sector unions help explain how the bureaucracy has become so entrenched, the report claims. Even Democratic President Franklin D. Roosevelt considered federal government union representation incompatible with democracy, in part because strikes would amount to acts against the people. Yet President John F. Kennedy recognized federal union representation and President Jimmy Carter set public-sector bargaining in law as part of an agreement with Congress to pass the Civil Service Reform Act of 1978, a reform that itself has been undermined, the authors lament.

Over time, federal agencies narrowed management rights, even though they still exist in law. A conservative president should reinstitute those rights, the report urges.

Trump issued three executive orders to restrain union abuses: one encouraging agencies to renegotiate all collective bargaining agreements, another encouraging agencies to prevent union representatives from using official time for union activity, and one more encouraging agencies to limit labor grievances and prioritize performance over seniority. Biden revoked these orders, but the report urges a future president to reinstate them.

3. Market-Based Pay and Improving Efficiency

Federal employees receive wages 22 percent higher than wages for similar private-sector workers, according to a 2016 Heritage Foundation study. With the value of employee benefits factored in, that ratio rises to between 30 percent and 40 percent. An American Enterprise Institute study found a 14 percent pay premium and a 61 percent total compensation premium. They receive more vacation and paid sick leave, retire earlier (normally at age 55 after 30 years), enjoy richer pension annuities, and receive automatic cost-of-living adjustments based on where they retire.

The Project 2025 report encourages moving closer to a market model for federal pay and benefits.

Republicans in the House of Representatives supported legislation to increase the weight of performance over time-of-service in the federal bureaucracy, but fierce opposition from unions kept these efforts from advancing. The report encourages a conservative president to insist that performance be first.

It also encourages a president to streamline the bureaucracy, acting on a Government Accountability Office report finding almost a hundred actions that the executive branch or Congress could take to improve efficiency and eliminate duplicate functions across the administration. Congress did not approve the Trump administrations proposed consolidations.

4. Schedule F

Any conservative president must counter the influence of leftist bureaucrats who have entrenched themselves as career civil servants, the report warns. The president, not career civil servants, has the duty to enforce the law, and therefore career civil servants by themselves should not lead major policy changes and reforms.

In October 2020, Trump created a new category of federal employee: Schedule F. His executive order directed agency heads to prepare a list of federal employees in positions of a confidential, policy-determining, policy-making, or policy-advocating character that are not normally subject to change as a result of a Presidential transition. The order created exceptions from civil service rules when careerists hold such positions, allowing agency heads to transfer them and make them functionally at-will employees, much easier to fire.

The report encourages a future president to reestablish Trumps Schedule F order, which Biden reversed.

The report also encourages a future president not to cut political appointees as a cost-cutting measure. It faults the Trump administration for failing to remove political appointees from the Obama administration, instead relying on them and on career civil servants to run the government while Trumps appointees struggled to receive Senate approval. This led to a lack of agency control.

The Trump administration appointed fewer political appointees early onin part due to historically high partisan congressional obstructions but also because some officials said they limited the number of political appointees as a way to cut federal spending.

Whatever the reasoning, this had the effect of permanently hampering the rollout of the new Presidents agenda, the report notes. Thus, in those critical early years, much of the government relied on senior careerists and holdover Obama appointees to carry out the sensitive responsibilities that would otherwise belong to the new presidents appointees.

The report recommends a freeze on all top career-position hiring to prevent burrowing-in by outgoing political appointees.

Reprinted by permission from The Daily Signal, a publication of The Heritage Foundation.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
KHARTOUM, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Clashes between the Sudanese Army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan have killed 185 people and wounded another 1,800 as of Monday, said a UN Sudan envoy.

Volker Perthes, head of the UN Integrated Transition Assistance Mission in Sudan, briefed the Security Council in a closed-door session on the lastest situation of the conflict.

"It's a very fluid situation, so it's very difficult to say where the balance is shifting to," Perthes told reporters after the meeting.

He said the two sides showed no signs of being willing to negotiate.

Fighting between the Sudanese Army and the RSF erupted on Saturday morning, and has raged into its third day.

The two sides have been using tanks, artillery, fighter jets and other heavy weapons in their exchange of fire. 
The Biden Administrations War on Parents

A seal reading "Department of Justice Federal Bureau of Investigation" is displayed on the J. Edgar Hoover FBI building in Washington, on Aug. 9, 2022. (Stefani Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images)

Commentary

With the War on Wrongthink having escalated in the wake of the sham indictment of former President Donald Trump, the conviction of a political memester for a thought crime, and the revelation that at least one FBI office had sought to cultivate sources within Catholic churches on grounds that domestic violent extremists lurked therein, you might have missed a new report (pdf) from the House Judiciarys Committees Weaponization Subcommittee on the Biden administrations related War on Parents.

That report demonstrates the extent to which the Biden administration targeted as domestic terrorists moms and dads concerned about heavy-handed Chinese coronavirus policies and radical curricula.

The deeper takeaway from the subcommittee report is that our current rulers clearly believe it to be a strategic imperative that parents have no influence over classrooms, and therefore are willing to go to the most extreme lengths possible to persecute those who would try to have that influence, as an example to others to shut up and remain docile. Why? Because by maintaining control over schools as woke indoctrination centers of the next generation, the state perpetuates its monopoly over the narrative and therefore its monopoly on power.

The greater its control over the minds of kidsand the more it can cleave them from their parents, as in all tyrannical regimesthe better, from its perspective.

The Weaponization Subcommittees investigation into the Biden administrations sinister effort to pursue parents can be traced back to a saga that began in the fall of 2021. Then, the National School Boards Association (NSBA) delivered a letter (pdf) to President Joe Biden claimingwith little more than sketchy anecdotal evidencethat school board members and teachers nationwide were coming under attack from parents livid over masking policies and the teaching of critical race theory.

These acts of malice, violence, and threats, the NSBA said, could be the equivalent to a form of domestic terrorism and hate crimes.

The group urged the Justice Department, FBI, Department of Homeland Security, and other agencies to examine appropriate enforceable actions against these crimes and acts of violence under  the PATRIOT Act in regards to domestic terrorism, among other laws.

When the NSBA said, Jump, the DOJ asked, How high?

Attorney General Merrick Garland issued a memorandum (pdf) mobilizing the national security and law enforcement apparatus against parents.

The Department, Garland wrote, is committed to using its authority and resources to discourage these threats, identify them when they occur, and prosecute them when appropriate.

Garland directed the FBI, working with each United States Attorney, to convene meetings with  leaders in each federal judicial district to develop strategies to combat the purported threat.

Immediately, a backlash ensued. The NSBA would apologize for the letteralbeit half-heartedlynoting there was no justification for some of the language included in it.

Documents would show that the NSBA coordinated with the White House on the letterthat this was seemingly an orchestrated political hit job against parents who opposed policies and practices favored by the Biden administration and its backers in the educational establishment.

Despite the NSBAs about-face, Garland was unbowed. He never rescinded the memo, and the FBI and DOJ pursued the policy apace.

We would learn that the FBIs Counterterrorism and Criminal divisions would create an internal threat tag to track alleged threats against teachers and school board members. FBI field offices would open dozens of investigations across the country into parents critical of schools.

Garland had previously testified that the DOJ and FBI werent using counterterrorism tools to investigate alleged threats, potentially perjuring himself.

When House Republicans, then in the minority, sought out information on Garland and the administrations policy, they were stonewalled.

Now, the dam has broken. The Weaponization Subcommittees subpoenas of the DOJ, FBI, and Education Department have yielded documents bringing to light disturbing new revelations.

According to the subcommittees report, There was no compelling nationwide law-enforcement justification for the DOJs memo and it is apparent that the Biden administration misused federal law enforcement and counterterrorism resources for political purposes.

The FBI acknowledged that since dedicating resources to creating a telephone line for the reporting of alleged threats, it has not observed an uptick of threats directed at school officials.

Apparently, it did no due diligence about the purported threats before hastily issuing the memo.

The subcommittee reports that the FBI opened 25 Guardian assessmentstips logged in the FBIs Guardian databaseand that the FBIs Counterterrorism Division ran six of the associated investigations. A single case warranted a full investigation. Most were referred to state and local authorities.

These admissions supplement whistleblower disclosures, the report notes, that the FBI investigated a mom because she belonged to a right-wing moms group and is a gun owner and a dad because he rails against the government.

Not one of these investigations resulted in federal arrests or chargesthis despite a narrative that parents were domestic terrorists emphasized by our nations preeminent law enforcement apparatus in the throes of a 2021 election season in which public schools were on the ballot.

This was particularly true in Virginia, where schools were a key battleground in a heated gubernatorial race, but also in New Jersey and elsewhere. Many Old Dominion parents, and indeed parents across the country, were outraged at what they learned about their schools, and what their kids were learning in the schools, during the pandemic.

The day before the NSBA issued its letter, Virginia Democrat gubernatorial candidate Terry McAuliffe asserted, I dont think parents should be telling schools what they should teach. He would lose his race to Republican Glenn Youngkin.

McAuliffes was precisely the perspective that led parents to rebel against public school authoritiesparents the Biden administration evidently felt they had to attack. Why?

Again, if parents, not left-wing teachers unions and politicians, control public schools, progressives lose the schools as indoctrination factories, and with them, control over the next generation of voters and activists.

All in all, this effort was shameful and outrageous.

The DOJ engaged in an information operation, framing concerned parents as domestic terrorists in the run-up to an electioncolluding with progressive education groups whod urged them to target parents, as the Weaponization Subcommittee report details.

Worse, the DOJ and FBI went ahead and pursued parents accordinglydiverting valuable time and resources from real threats to the homeland, as opposed to threats to their power.

Siccing the secret police on parents for having the gall to be concerned about the health, safety, and education of their kids in schools is as chilling and despicable an act as one could possibly imagineinfinitely more egregious than the political act of smearing and slandering them as domestic terrorists for political ends.

The Weaponization Subcommittee report calls on Garland to rescind the baseless memorandum.

It should consider going furtherhe and every other senior official involved in this policy engaged in impeachable acts, and they ought to be held to account accordingly.

As I wrote in the fall of 2021 as this scandal emerged, the Biden administrations War on Wrongthink, masquerading as domestic counterterrorism, would inflict infinitely more terror on the United States than loving parents concerned about what their children are being subjected to in the schools they fund.

That has come to pass.

Those targeted can never be made whole.

But a good start would be bringing their attackers to justice.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
The CCP Shows Pope Francis Its True Colours

Pope Francis leads the Easter Sunday mass on April 9, 2023, at St. Peter's square in The Vatican, as part of celebrations of the Holy Week. (Andreas Solaro/AFP)

Commentary

As readers of this esteemed publication would be aware, in 2018, the Vatican signed a provisional agreement with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) on the appointment of Catholic bishops. In doing so, the Vatican recognised the Chinese Patriotic Church, set up and controlled by the CCP.

The 1950 Guangyuan Manifesto establishing this state-run church proclaimed that they were determined to sever all relations with imperialism, make comprehensive reform, and establish a new independent Church.

Since that time, the Vatican has sought to support the Underground Church as much as it could while seeking a way to unite all Catholics in the country without, however, recognising the Patriotic Church.

Yet, as former Australian defence minister Kevin Andrews writes, not only did the Vatican enter into an agreement with the CCP, it recognised seven Patriotic Church bishops.

This has done nothing to improve religious freedom. On the contrary, it demonstrates a naivete about the CCP.

In 2018, the previous regulatory body for religion, the State Administration for Religious Affairs, was incorporated into the United Front Work Department, a central instrument of CCP influence and propaganda.

Religious organisations are only permitted in China if they constitute arms of the regime. Many places of worship have been destroyed, and religious believers persecuted and imprisoned. Images of Chinese leader Xi Jinping and communist slogans adorn churches at the dictate of the government.

Turning a Blind Eye to the Chinese People

When scandalously renewing the agreement in 2020, the Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin said the pact was only a starting point for better relations between the two.

When the former Bishop of Hong Kong, Cardinal Joseph Zen, flew to Rome to discuss the issue with the Vatican, Pope Francis refused to meet with him.

Cardinal of the Holy Roman Church and a former trustee of the 612 Humanitarian Relief Fund, Joseph Zen preaches a sermon during a mass at the Holy Cross Church in Hong Kong on May 24, 2022. (Anthony Kwan/Getty Images)

Others, including many Catholic legislators and public officials from around the world, have sought to engage Pope Francis about the grave situation for believers in China, but he has refused the requests.

Pope Francis also refuses to speak out against the persecution of the Uyghurs, which includes forcing their women to have abortions.

Indeed, the late Cardinal George Pell, in the Demos document attributed to him, stated that under the 2018 secret Vatican-China pact, there had been no public support for the loyal Catholics in China who have been intermittently persecuted for their loyalty to the Papacy for more than 70 years.

It is no wonder that the Vatican had little to say about the prosecution of Cardinal Zen by the CCP in Hong Kong. Zen and five others were found guilty of failing to properly register a Humanitarian Relief Fund, which helped pay medical and legal fees for arrested protesters beginning in 2019.

They were fined but are also being investigated under the vague Beijing-imposed National Security Laws.

The most that the Vatican could say about the situation was the Holy See has learned with concern the news of Cardinal Zens arrest and is following the development of the situation with extreme attention.

It has remained silent about the prosecution and jailing of another prominent Catholic, Jimmy Lai, on spurious fraud charges.

CCP Pays No Heed to Pact

While the Vatican-CCP pact remains secret, it has been possible to ascertain that, according to its terms, the Vatican is to be included in the decision-making process in the appointment of bishops, with the final OK by the Pope.

Well, as critics of the agreement have warned, the CCP would have no compunction in breaking the agreement and have now done so, not once, but twice.

The Chinese national flag flies in front of St Josephs Church, also known as Wangfujing Catholic Church, in Beijing on Oct. 22, 2020. (Greg Baker/AFP via Getty Images)

The first episode occurred in November last year. The CCP transferred a bishop from one diocese to another, where he was installed as an auxiliaryassistantbishop, in violation of the secret agreement between the Holy See and China.

It was with surprise and regret that the Holy See learned of the news of the installation ceremony that took place on Nov. 24 in Nanchang of H.E. Bishop Giovanni Peng Weizhao, Bishop of Yujiang (Jiangxi Province), as Auxiliary Bishop of Jiangxi, a diocese not recognised by the Holy See. Such an event, in fact, has not taken place in conformity with the spirit of dialogue that exists between the Vatican parties and the Chinese parties and what has been stipulated in the Provisional Agreement on the Appointment of Bishops of Sept. 22, 2018.

The statement also claimed that the installation of the bishop was preceded, according to reports received, by prolonged and intense pressure by the local Authorities, that is, by the CCP.

Indeed, Peng is recorded as stating at the time that he would actively guide Catholicism so it would adapt to the socialist society.

The second slap in the face to Pope Francis occurred just some four months later, a week before Easter. As the Italian daily il Giornale reported, the CCP decided once again it didnt need to consult with the Vatican, thereby confirming just how much the Church there is under its control.

The CCP decided it would move Bishop Joseph Sen Bin from the Diocese of Haiman to that of Shanghai. The Vatican found out about this move via the media.

Shen Bin, who is a member of the Patriotic Church, lauded the 2018 pact at the time of its conclusion, stating it constituted a bridge over a wall that had been built up over 70 years and that it was as a result of great effort at dialogue from both sides.

Obviously, with his appointment, one side decided it no longer needed to engage in dialogue.

There is now no question that the Church in China is caged up. The only issue is how big is the enclosure, thus casting an even darker shadow over the catastrophic papacy of Jorge Bergoglio.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
The Dr. Kildare Film Series (1938-1942): Celebrating Medical Integrity

Commentary

Medical dramas have been popular subject matter for television series for years now. General Hospital, Scrubs, Greys Anatomy, and many more have capitalized on the publics fascination with the drama behind closed hospital doors. Before these popular series captured peoples morbid imaginations, however, Americas favorite medical drama was Dr. Kildare.

The name is doubtless familiar to you. However, the Dr. Kildare series to which Im referring is not the 1960s television series starring Richard Chamberlain. Im talking about the earlier version of this successful story, the Dr. Kildare film series from 1938 to 1942. Starring Lew Ayres as the titular intern with Lionel Barrymore as his curmudgeonly mentor, Dr. Gillespie, this highly popular series included nine films. It was one of MGMs most successful series in those prewar years, second only to the Andy Hardy films. The story of Dr. Kildare, a young intern at a New York hospital who isnt afraid to break the rules to help his patients, came from magazine stories by Max Brand, most of which were published in Cosmopolitan.

Lew Ayres was introduced as Young Dr. Kildare in MGMs 1938 film of the same name, but this wasnt the first time the character was onscreen. The year before, Paramount made a film version of Brands first Dr. Kildare short story, Internes Cant Take Money, with Joel McCrea as Kildare and Barbara Stanwyck as a former convict with whom he falls in love. However, neither this characterization nor storyline is related to the MGM series. After MGM acquired the rights, Brand shifted the focus to the direction the company had in mind for the stories, adding Dr. Gillespie and toning down the crime themes. From 1943 to 1947, MGM made five Dr. Gillespie movies about the older doctors adventures while Jimmy Kildare and Lew Ayres were in the war, but thats a whole different article. The original nine films could be categorized as three separate trilogies, if you will, based on the story writers and scriptwriters.

Lobby card for the 1938 film Young Dr. Kildare. (MovieStillsDB)

The Max Brand Solo Era

Young Dr. Kildare (1938)Story: Max Brand; Script: Harry Ruskin and Willis Goldbeck

Young Dr. Kildare begins after Jimmy Kildare has just graduated from medical school. His father, Stephen (Samuel S. Hinds), mother, Martha (Emma Dunn), and childhood sweetheart, Alice (Lynne Carver), have been eagerly waiting for Jimmy to join his fathers practice as a country doctor in Dartford, Connecticut. However, Jimmy reluctantly informs them that he has the chance to intern at Blair General Hospital in New York under the great Dr. Leonard Gillespie. Dr. Gillespie is wheelchair-bound but unrestrained by any law but his own will. He immediately singles Jimmy out from the rest of the interns as his target of ridicule. However, Jimmy is inspired to become a diagnostician just like him. Does the irascible old physician just enjoy lording all Kildares mistakes over him, or could he be tormenting him because he sees potential greatness? Meanwhile, Jimmys insistence that a young socialite who attempted suicide (Jo Ann Sayers) is not insane threatens his job at the hospital.

Calling Dr. Kildare (1939)Story: Max Brand; Script: Harry Ruskin and Willis Goldbeck

In the second film, somehow Dr. Kildare has survived the previous escapades and has become Dr. Gillespies assistant. (Spoiler alert: He was just testing Jimmy in the last film.) Wanting to curb his protege of his headstrong nature and stubborn streak, Gillespie sends Kildare to the hospitals clinic in the low rent district, so he can gain practical experience. He gains that, plus a lot of trouble, when he leaves the clinic to tend to a young man with a gunshot wound (Reed Hadley), who begs him not to report it. Jimmy soon realizes hes doctoring and concealing a man wanted for murder, but hes convinced of his innocence. This is the most romantic film of the series, giving Jimmy three prospective love interests. Mary Lamont (Laraine Day), a pretty and perky young nurse, is introduced in this film when Dr. Gillespie assigns her to assist Jimmy at the clinic so she can keep an eye on him and report back to Gillespie. Mary feels jealous when she sees Jimmys becoming enamored with a glamorous, designing redhead (Lana Turner), who happens to be the wanted mans sister. Meanwhile, Alice still hopes Jimmy will come back to Dartford and marry her.

Poster for the 1939 film The Secret of Dr. Kildare. (Public Domain)

The Secret of Dr. Kildare (1939)Story: Max Brand; Script: Harry Ruskin and Willis Goldbeck

As usual, Dr. Kildare is Dr. Gillespies assistant again at the beginning of the film. They are embarking on intense testing on pneumonia treatments. By now, the other two girls have disappeared, and Jimmy is going steady with Mary. The title doesnt give much of a hint about this entrys plot, since Kildare has a secret in basically every film. The difference is that this time, the secret isnt from the hospitals administrator, Dr. Carew (Walter Huston) but from Gillespie! Head nurse Molly Byrd (Alma Kruger), one of Gillespies oldest friends, is afraid that his sensitive health will be strained to the breaking point by his planned experiments. To protect his mentors well-being, Jimmy accepts a high paying job assessing the mysterious headaches of fragile debutante Nancy (Helen Gilbert), making Gillespie think hes doing it for her fathers bankroll. Mary also misconstrues his relationship with Nancy, but he may be able to save her vision and her sanity before its too late.

The Brand and Golbeck Stories

Dr. Kildares Strange Case (1940)Story: Max Brand and Willis Goldbeck Script: Harry Ruskin and Willis Goldbeck

In this film, Dr. Kildare is helping in surgery while continuing to work as Dr. Gillespies assistant. He is working alongside brain surgeon Gregory Lane (Shepherd Strudwick), whose reputation and self-esteem are crumbling because hes had several patients die recently. Based on Gillespies assessment and his own instincts, Jimmy believes in Lanes ability, so he tries to encourage him. Meanwhile, Mary is growing discouraged with a sweetheart who only makes $20 a month and cant possibly marry her for years. Dr. Lane is rich and very interested in her, so Jimmy generously takes a backseat in her life so she can consider his lavish wooing. However, both Bryant and Kildare end up in trouble when a mysterious patient (John Eldredge) wakes up from brain surgery insane. Dr. Kildare must prove that he was insane when he was brought to the hospital and find out why to save their careersand hopefully give the patient a chance at a normal life through a dangerous experimental treatment.

A cropped lobby card for the film Dr. Kildare Goes Home from 1940. (Public Domain)

Dr. Kildare Goes Home (1940)Story: Max Brand and Willis Goldbeck Script: Harry Ruskin and Willis Goldbeck

At last, Dr. Kildare has finished his internship. However, no sooner has he taken his official position on the hospital staff than he has to head to Dartford. Mrs. Kildare is very concerned about Jimmys father, since hes been working double duty and neglecting himself to care for his patients. Hes currently the only doctor in their own town and the neighboring somewhat impoverished community of Parkersville. With Jimmys help, however, Dr. Stephen Kildare can take some time to look after himself. Hoping that he wont have to stay in Dartford forever, Jimmy sees an opportunity to provide Parkersville with effective yet affordable health care. He and a few other young doctors who need jobs set up a clinic, but the community is skeptical about the idea and suspicious of outsiders. Jimmy works night and day to get just one influential citizen on their side, since he knows the clinic is the only way to secure the future for his father, the other doctors, and the people in Parkersville; he doesnt even dare think about his own medical dreams. Meanwhile, he and Mary begin talking about getting married right away.

Dr. Kildares Crisis (1940)Story: Max Brand and Willis Goldbeck Script: Harry Ruskin and Willis Goldbeck

Despite the foreboding title, everything seems to be going well for Dr. Kildare when this film starts. He and Mary are engaged and happily planning their wedding. Dr. Kildare is on friendly terms with Dr. Gillespie, and he isnt in trouble with Dr. Carew. Both his parents and Gillespie are in good health. We know all this tranquility wont last long, though. Soon, Marys brother, Douglas (Robert Young), comes to town for a business deal. Jimmy is delighted to meet his future brother-in-law, but he cant help noticing that Doug has some strange behavioral traits. When Mary realizes that Jimmy is growing increasingly certain that Dougs dramatic mood swings and hearing strange noises are symptoms of a serious disease, she realizes that he is only motivated by concern for her brothers health and even her own.

Lobby card for the 1940 film Dr. Kildares Crisis. (Public Domain)

Without Max Brand

The People vs. Dr. Kildare (1941)Story: Max Brand and Lawrence P. Bachmann; Script: Harry Ruskin and Willis Goldbeck

The seventh movie marked the beginning of a new chapter for the Dr. Kildare series, but the change was not for the better. With Lawrence P. Bachmanns replacing Willis Goldbeck as Max Brands co-writer of the story, it started a shift in the writing of Jimmys character. When the film begins, Dr. Kildare and Mary Lamont are still just engaged. Unlike its predecessors, this movie doesnt start with Jimmy or someone else connected to him but with the films primary patient, ice-skating star Frances Marlowe (Bonita Granville). Jimmy and Mary are driving back from a picnic when they come upon a car accident involving a truck and a car with Miss Marlowe and her manager (Chick Chandler). Realizing shes suffering from potentially fatal internal bleeding, Dr. Kildare performs roadside surgery on Frances before the ambulance arrives. She then receives further treatment at Blair General Hospital. She is very grateful to Jimmy until she discovers she cant move her leg. Facing a malpractice suit, Jimmy must prove that Miss Marlowe was paralyzed before his surgery, not because of it. New story writer Bachmann must have been guiding the plot development more than Brand, since Jimmy Kildares character begins to change in this film. He slaps a hysterical Frances before operating on her, showing that hes starting to take on Dr. Gillespies rough manner, while Gillespie grows gentler. The brusque treatment of patients works for Dr. Gillespie, but it isnt fitting for Dr. Kildare.

Dr. Kildares Wedding Day (1941)Story: Lawrence P. Bachmann and Ormond Ruthven; Script: Harry Ruskin and Willis Goldbeck

The eighth film was the first in the series with which Max Brand was not involved. Instead, Ormond Ruthvenn, a sound engineer who only was a writer on this film, joined Lawrence P. Bachmann in writing this story. Brands absence is very obvious. After planning and delaying their marriage for three movies, Jimmy Kildare and Mary Lamont have finally set the date for their wedding. The whole hospital is in a flurry of preparations for the happy day. The nurses give Mary a bridal shower, during which they dismally predict that she will never see her future husband (as if she, a nurse, doesnt know about doctors schedules). Meanwhile, Dr. Kildare and Dr. Gillespie are trying to discern whats wrong with famous conductor Constanzo Labardi (Nils Asther), whose hearing is threatened by tinnitus. The nurses warning seems to be coming true already, as Jimmy is so busy with this case that he misses important pre-marriage celebrations.

Lobby card for the film Dr. Kildares Wedding Day from 1941. (Public Domain)

I havent described the conclusions so far, but this one changed the series too much to be avoided. When crossing a street on her way to take Jimmys place at a surprise party, Mary gets hit by a truck. Within two minutes of screentime, she has died at the hospital, since she is beyond medical help. After her death, the remainder of the film is dismal. After some ill-timed comedic moments from an orderly played by Red Skelton, Dr. Kildare is rescued from despair when Dr. Gillespie tells him about his sweetheart, a composer, who died. They cure Labardi after discovering he has a Vitamin B deficiency, the most undramatic illness in any of the films, making Marys death seem even more unnecessary. The finale in which Labardi conducts a piece composed by Gillespies late sweetheart, which was actually written by Lionel Barrymore, is potentially touching but couldnt remedy the damage which had been done.

Dr. Kildares Victory (1942)Story: Joseph Harrington; Script: Harry Ruskin and Willis Goldbeck

The final film is an obvious attempt on MGMs part to repair something it had destroyed. After eight films with Harold S. Bucquet as the director, the much more famous W. S. Van Dyke took over as director, but even One-Take Woody couldnt save the broken series. The films story was written by just one new writer, Joseph Harrington, and by new I mean this was his first and only time writing a film. This movie has lots of new characters, including a young doctor (Robert Sterling) and nurse (Jean Rogers) whose budding romance was supposed to fill the void which the dismal, heartbroken Jimmy can no longer fill alone. His patient is Cookie Charles (Ann Ayars), a debutante who gets a shard of glass in her heart when a sign falls on her. Dr. Kildare performs open-heart surgery on her while Dr. Gillespie describes every gory detail to a gallery full of medical students. As the wisecracking glamour girl recovers, she begins making a play for Jimmy. Inevitably, Kildare gets himself in trouble with the hospital administration, and he faces suspension. Life would imitate art soon after this, as Lew Ayres was blackballed by MGM in early 1942 when he registered as a conscientious objector. On patriotic principle, many theater owners refused to play this film. However, once Lew Ayres, a patriotic pacifist, joined the medical corps, he was exonerated, just as Dr. Kildare is in so many of his films. This was the first movie in the series to include a new romantic interest for Jimmy since the second film because he was devoted to Mary. Unfortunately, the romance feels very forced, as Jimmy is still just as upset by Marys death as the audience.

Lobby card for the film Dr. Kildares Victory from 1942. (Public Domain)

In Conclusion

The Dr. Kildare films are a beautiful tribute to noble doctors who truly understand their calling, a tragically rare creature today. Personally, I prefer the first six movies, but you may explore all nine. They all contain excellent actors from the main characters, although the plot choices are hard to comprehend.

I cant get over the irony of a series which is centered around miraculous medical cures yet allows the leading lady to die in a freak accident, in a hospital bed yet untreatable. Marys accident could have been used as a chance for Dr. Kildare to test some daring experiment or challenge his love for her as she has become an invalid. It could even have been a poignant lesson about the human frailty of doctors. In the end, it seems like a very effective way of ruining a great series, which MGM did to write Laraine Day out of the story so she would be free to be in other films. Surely they could have found a less violent way to do so, such as her breaking the engagement because shes afraid their marriage will hinder Jimmys career. After Marys death, the series got so lost that the writers seemed to forget that Jimmy was a diagnostician, not a heart surgeon!

Nevertheless, this is a fascinating look into Hollywoods view of the medical industry in the years shortly before World War II. You can enjoy the whole set in a DVD collection from Warner Archives, which you can buy from Amazon or Barnes and Noble.
The WHOs Updated Abortion Care Guideline and Its Implications for Member States

Commentary

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that babies should be killed up until the moment they emerge from the birth canal, without delay, whenever a pregnant woman requests it. Through its updated abortion care guideline released in 2022, the WHO expects all Member States to implement this policy.

This article is not about whether the WHOs policy is right or wrong, but the process used to reach its conclusions, and what this tells us about it as a legitimate global health advisory body.

Dealing With a Difficult Topic

It is important to say awkward things sometimes, when these things are true. When we become polarized, we can start to believe that stating something consistent with the other party can be worse than telling lies to support our preferred stance. This demeans us and does not help anyone. There are few issues that polarize (Western) society more than abortion.

I am tied to neither side of the abortion debate. As a medical practitioner, I have taken part in surgical abortions, helping women to stop a pregnancy that they decided they did not want to continue. I have also assisted some hundreds of women to deliver babies.

I have been with tiny premature babies of just 20 weeks gestation when they died. I have gently cradled a very premature child of my own, fully human in my hands. He saw light and felt hunger, pain and fear, his outstretched hand the size of my thumbnail. He could have been killed in many places if he had not happened to be born early.

Many thousands of girls and women also die excruciating deaths each year from septic, unsafe abortions performed because safe abortion is outlawed or inaccessible. The introduction to the WHO guideline notes that 3 of 10 pregnancies end in abortion and nearly half of these are unsafe for the mother, nearly all these being in low-income countries. I have lived in a Southeast Asian country where several thousand women are thought to die from this each year. These young and agonizing deaths mostly cease when abortion is legalized.

Philosophically, I believe in the equality of all human beings and in the concept of bodily autonomyno one has the right to interfere and control anothers body. We own and must control our bodies, not because someone grants us this right, but because we are humans. This applies to medical procedures as it does to torture. As it applies to our own body, it applies to all others.

However, because there is good and bad in the worldnurture and harmthe interpretation of this fundamental truth is not simple. At times we may need to kill anothers body. We do this in war, for example, to stop a country being invaded and its people tortured, raped, and killed. But we also uphold the right of conscientious objectors who decline to kill because of their religious or moral beliefs.

So there is no simple right and wrong when it comes to the act of abortion, only a right or wrong in the intent. As humans we need to face such truths fearlessly because truth is intrinsically better than lies, and simplifications of complex issues are frequently lies. In interpreting the same truths, we may reach different actions. We need to recognize that life is full of hard choices, always harder for some than others, and we all have different experiences to inform them.

An Anecdote

A wise friend was once discussing the issue of abortion with people who, with good intentions, held vigils outside abortion clinics to dissuade women from entering. He recounted the words of a woman who had an abortion at such a clinic: What she needed was someone to be with her and support her after she had left by the back door, not someone accosting her on the way in.

Like much that life throws at us, dealing with abortion primarily requires truth, understanding, and compassion, not dogma.

The WHO Position on Abortion, and What It Means

The WHO released its Abortion care guideline in early 2022, updating previous publications on the social, ethical, and medical aspects of abortion into one volume. As a guideline rather than a recommendation, the WHO expects the document to be followed by the 194 Member States that make up the World Health Assembly. The WHO, of course, does not have power to enforce guidelines, but guideline in the WHO lexicon is an instruction with which countries should abide.

To ensure an evidence-base, guideline development is supposed to involve a wide range of experts and stakeholders who gather to weigh evidence, using this to carefully formulate best practice. The process should be transparent, and the data traceable. A department within the WHO oversees this process, ensuring that the guideline reflects the Organizations principles and way of working.

The WHOs guideline recommends unequivocally that abortion be performed on request of a pregnant woman, at any time during pregnancy up until delivery, without any delay that may potentially cause the pregnant woman distress.

Recommend against laws and other regulations that restrict abortion by grounds abortion is available when carrying a pregnancy to term would cause the woman, girl or other pregnant person substantial pain or suffering 

Remarks:

vi. health grounds reflect WHOs definitions of health and mental health (see Glossary);

[A state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity]

[Mental health: A state of well-being in which every individual realizes their own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to their community]

Gestational age limits delayed access to abortion, especially among women seeking abortions at later gestational ages . Gestational age limits have been found to be associated with  increased rates of maternal mortality and poor health outcomes.

The evidence also showed that grounds-based approaches that require fetal impairments to be fatal for abortion to be lawful frustrate providers who wish to support patients and leave women no choice but to continue with pregnancy. Being required to continue with a pregnancy that causes significant distress violates numerous human rights. States are obligated [emphasis added] to revise these laws to make them compatible with international human rights law.

Put another way (but exactly the same meaning), the WHOs official position is that a woman may kill an unborn embryo or baby soon after conception, or when it is entering the birth canal during labor, and it is the health professions role to do this without delay upon request.

The WHOs logic in arriving at its conclusion is deeply flawed, and can only be reached by adopting a specific view of humanity that is inconsistent with that of most Member States. It is therefore an illegitimate position, if the WHO works for all of its Member States and not for narrow, unrepresentative interests.

In its lack of inclusivity, the guideline demonstrates a growing culture within international health that is deeply troubling and dangerous. This culture relies on a denial of reality to achieve a pre-ordained result. It deliberately misuses human rights norms to force a particular worldview on othersa form of cultural colonialism and quite the opposite of the community-driven and anti-colonialist ideals around which the WHO was formed.

The WHOs Human Rights Justification

The WHO justifies its position on abortion by citing what it considers relevant human rights norms and law. It holds that there is no choice but to allow abortion, as refusing or delaying abortion, such as through a requirement for counselling, could potentially distress the pregnant woman.

When offering and providing counselling, it is essential to apply the following guiding principles: ensure that the individual is requesting the counselling and make it clear that counselling is not required; 

In causing distress, her human right to be free from ill-health (in this case psychological pain) has been infringed, based on the definition of healthphysical, mental, and social well-beingin the WHOs Constitution. This weak argument requires disagreement with another persons views to constitute a violation of that persons rights. Society could not function on this basis.

In establishing the required evidence-base for maintaining its incongruous position, the WHO has to consider only risk and no benefit.

The studies also showed that where women requested an abortion and were denied care due to gestational age this could result in the unwanted continuation of pregnancy  those who presented at 20 weeks gestation or later. This outcome can be viewed as incompatible with the requirement in international human rights law to make abortion available when carrying a pregnancy to term would cause the woman substantial pain or suffering, regardless of pregnancy viability.

The studies used by the WHO do not however only record negative outcomes of delays through required counselling, but note that women also considered that legally-required delays and counselling could be positive, with some opting not to have an abortion as a result.

If the WHO recognized any requirement for counselling, it would have to recognize that practitioners withholding counselling would be putting informed consent in jeopardy, and in some cases babies (pregnancy tissue) would be lost when an informed woman, on reflection, may have preferred to keep it. Informed consent is at the basis of modern medical ethics and an internationally-accepted human right.

The WHO recognizes in the document that States must ensure that informed consent is provided freely, safeguarded effectively, and based on complete provision of high-quality, accurate and accessible information. Incongruously, it then considers that the rights of that woman are violated if the abortion is delayed in order to ensure that information, and time for reflection, are provided.

The Human in Human Rights

At no place in the document is the definition of human discussed. The WHOs argument for abortion requires absolute acceptance that human rights do not apply in any form prior to birth. The only human rights acknowledged in the document are those of the pregnant woman, with disputable subsidiary rights of providers. Discussion of fetal (unborn baby) rights is absent. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights does not specify a time that dividing cells become human, creating uncertainty for the Guidelines argument.

Defining human is difficult. It may be argued that the lack of independence, or ability to express thoughts to others, prevents the application of human rights to a fetus. This claim would require dependent adults or children who cannot articulate their thoughts to be considered sub-human, such as people severely mentally or even physically disabled, and those who are comatose. This is a position previously adopted by fascist and eugenic regimes that believed in a hierarchy of human worth. It would be unfitting for the WHO.

The only intrinsic difference between the baby within and without the womb apart from geography is the umbilical cord. Suggesting the functioning of this fetal organ, comprised solely of fetal tissue, somehow prevents the rest of the fetus from being a sentient being would require redefinition of sentient. For the last few months within the uterus, when it could readily survive outside, it has its own unique and complete human DNA, a beating heart and independent movement. Some mothers will say it responds to familiar sounds. If removed from the uterus, it displays sensations of pain and distress, hunger, an ability to cry, respond to stimuli, recognize light, shapes, and sounds, and drink milk. If this sentient being is not human, what is it?

Any recognition of humanness of the WHOs pregnancy tissue requires an acceptance of two persons in the womanfetal relationship (i.e., two potential victims). The human rights basis of the WHOs guidelines would then require one to be considered subservient to the other. This would require a rewriting of the human rights agreements on which the panel based its determination (a hierarchy of human worth).

Alternatively, it can be decided that the rights to life of one can be infringed to benefit the other. We do this in war, we may do it in triage at the scene of an accident. We also do this sometimes in pregnancy. It involves recognizing hard and unpleasant choices, as it involves putting value on potential harm to the woman versus harm to the second person in the equation. This approach would fit with human rights conventions, but would disallow an approach that relies solely on a dogma that claims the pregnant womans welfare is the only relevant concern. The failure of the WHO to recognize the potential of two humans with attendant rights in a pregnancy smells like cowardice. Their argument is flawed.

Pregnancy Tissue or Person?

The Guideline manages the definition of the unborn by avoiding the use of the term baby anywhere in its 120 pagesitself quite a feat of drafting for an abortion guideline. The term pregnancy tissue is used most frequently, to describe the growing mass within the uterus:

Pregnancy tissue should be treated in the same way as other biological material unless the individual expresses a desire for it to be managed otherwise.

However, if the fetus happens to be born at 28 weeks, the WHO considers it a fully-fledged human. It is recorded in human death statistics, and the WHO provides guidance on how to support its health and welfare elsewhere. The WHOs 2022 Recommendations for care of the preterm or low-birth-weight infant state: The care of preterm and LBW infants is a global priority. To kill it once out of the birth canal is murder in most countriesan ultimate violation of human rights.

For the WHOs entire human rights argument to be valid, the definition of a human must therefore rely entirely on geographyinside or outside the uterus. The WHO must hold that at some moment during the final stage of labor, the pregnancy tissue is suddenly transformed into an entirely different entityfrom irrelevant tissue to a full person with the rights and immeasurable worth that this implies.

If this guideline is followed, my 28-week baby became human not through any intrinsic value or worth, but because the drugs suppressing labor became ineffective. If these drugs had worked, the WHO holds that my child could have been subsequently killed as one might excise an annoying tumor. From pregnancy tissue to global priority depends, in the WHOs eyes, on a matter of seconds and centimeters. Whether a live abortion product is a global priority or pregnancy tissue is not discussedthe assumption is that the intent to abort changes the status of the erstwhile human to irrelevance.

Conscientious Objection and Health Providers

The guideline considers removing the right to conscientious objection of the provider (this may be necessary), where this will delay an abortion. This is a fascinating contrast to the emphasis on avoiding any risk of emotional harm or stress to the pregnant woman. Rights apply here to the pregnant woman, but not to other involved humans.

Recommend that access to and continuity of comprehensive abortion care be protected against barriers created by conscientious objection.

Rights of the provider to follow their own cultural or religious belief may be overridden if no alternative provider is available.

If it proves impossible to regulate conscientious objection in a way that respects, protects and fulfils abortion seekers rights, conscientious objection in abortion provision may become indefensible.

Providers are not classed as equal humans; their rights are subservient. If we are to believe that stress is a legitimate harm from which the pregnant woman must be protected as a human right, then this must also apply to stress caused to a provider who is forced to act against their conscience. We are faced with at least two beings whose rights must be weighed together. The WHOs simplistic human interpretation again seems to fall apart.

The guideline committee did appear aware of this dilemma, and resorted to EU human rights law to support their case (though legal arguments may question its fit with the Universal Declaration on Human Rights). The right to conscientious objection in other instances is strongly protected in international law. Whilst the guideline quotes sections of this EU law, it fails to elucidate contrary arguments. French human rights law takes a contrary view and upholds the rights of such a medical or nursing practitioner to object; recognizing the issue of forcing a practitioner to act in a way they consider wrong, It explicitly notes the inherent moral difficulty of setting rules in this area.

The Rights of Parents and Minors

The rights of parents or guardians are recognized in regard to decisions on medical procedures for minors in most WHO Member States, whilst being more widely questioned in some Western cultures. The Guideline considers only one view throughout, that young age is no limit to consent. Practitioners therefore have a duty to maintain confidentiality for a pregnant girl who requests an abortion and prefers her parents to be unaware.

Recommend that abortion be available on the request of the woman, girl or other pregnant person without the authorization of any other individual, body or institution.

This is a complicated area, and there are strong arguments for protecting confidentiality, as there are for parental involvement in consenting to medical procedures for children under their protection. The WHO considers only one specific Western view to be legitimate and therefore superior, and supposedly holding that contrary views (e.g., in Islamic, South Asian, East Asian or most Christian communities) to be illegitimate and inappropriate.

The WHO, Inclusivity, and Cultural Colonialism

In formulating a guideline on an issue critical to human rights and values, the world might expect the WHO to consider the rich diversity of its cultural, religious, and societal life. This is not evidenced within the documents 150 pages. The drafting committee generically noted such opinions and cultures are important in the introduction:

The needs of all individuals with respect to abortion are recognized and acknowledged in this guidance,

and further;

WHO guidelines systematically incorporate consideration of the values and preferences of end-users of the recommended or suggested interventions into the process of developing the guidance.

Those formulating the guidelines were seemingly unaware that such values and preferences may lead to differing opinions regarding the killing of an unborn baby.

The WHO states that a global survey was conducted, followed by a meeting with participants from 15 (of 194) Member States. Either no one in this inclusivity-driven process raised any objection, or those in charge of the process considered such opinions so inferior to their own as to be unworthy of record. If cultural colonialism needs definition, this act of imposing ones values on others through an apparent belief in the superiority of ones own views seems an excellent example.

The World Does Not Need to Return to Colonialism

The WHO, heavily sponsored by private vested interests, is not the population-oriented organization it was 75 years ago. Along with the COVID-19 response, this guideline demonstrates the extent to which the WHO has regressed to a narrow Western-derived worldview that many in the West would find appalling. It seeks to impose this on others, considering alternate approaches unworthy of serious discussion.

Whatever ones views on abortion, the flaws in the WHOs human rights arguments, and its clear avoidance of diversity of opinion, suggest an organization focused on dogma rather than evidence.

Abortion is a morally complicated area. Policy must be based on compassion and respect for all of humanity. To impose ones views on others irrespective of evidence and without respect for alternate opinion is a form of fascism. The WHO may have a place in advising on safety of a medical procedure, but not in pontificating over moral rights and wrongs. It is not there to tell people how to live their lives, but to support them with the tools to do so.

Countries currently considering whether to grant greater powers to the WHO would do well to question whether the organization is compatible with their culture, ethics, and beliefs. The abortion guideline is a reflection of the WHOs growing unfitness to lead global health.

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.
Opposition Leaders Ask Trudeau for Cost of Jamaica Stay

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau rises during question period in the House of Commons on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on March 9, 2023. (The Canadian Press/Justin Tang)

Opposition leaders peppered Prime Minister Justin Trudeau with questions in the House of Commons on April 18 about the cost of his stay several months ago at a luxurious estate in Jamaica owned by donors to the Pierre Elliot Trudeau Foundation, but Trudeau provided no monetary figures in response.

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre referenced figures released by cabinet in an Inquiry of Ministry in March that showed the federal government spent over $160,000 on a weeklong trip to Jamaica that Trudeau and his family took over the holiday season from late December 2022 to early January 2023.

Expenses included accommodation and security costs but did not specify where the prime minister and his family stayed during the vacation.

However, a CBC/Radio-Canada report published April 18 said the Trudeau family stayed at the Prospect Estate and Villasa property owned by Peter Greens wealthy family that has been friends with the Trudeaus since the 1970s and that also made a sizable donation to the Trudeau Foundation two years ago.

Poilievre said during question period on April 18 that accommodation prices at the Prospect Estate reach as high as $9,000 per night. He asked if the prime minister paid for the trip himself or billed taxpayers.

The previous Inquiry of Ministry said that accommodation costs for the prime minister and his entourage during the trip to Jamaica totalled just under $30,000, while per diems amounted to over $3,680.

This prime minister wants us to believe that these Trudeau Foundation donors offered him a $9,000-a-night vacation for nothing, said Poilievre.

We know nothing is free.  This is about influence and power for the super rich, he added.

Why wont he answer how much did he pay in accommodation per night at this luxurious villa?

Trudeau responded by saying that his family has been friends with the estates owners for 50 years and that his father, former prime minister Pierre Elliot Trudeau, was godfather to one of their kids and their father was godfather to one of Trudeaus brothers.

This is 50 years of friendship, the prime minister said, adding that the federal ethics commissioner approved the trip beforehand.

Bloc Quebecois Yves-Francois Blanchet also questioned Trudeau about his trip and asked if the prime minister was aware of the Green familys donation to the Trudeau Foundation prior to his stay at their villa.

Blanchet also asked if Trudeau paid out of pocket for the accommodations, but the prime minister would not answer.

Our families have been friends for 50 years, Trudeau replied. And when one has a friend, one often goes to visit them.
20-Year-Old Arrested Following Stabbing Death of Teen on Bus in Surrey, BC

Ethan Bespflug is shown in this undated family handout photo. (The Canadian Press/HO, Andrea Van Der Gracht)

Police say they have arrested a 20-yearold man from Burnaby, B.C., in connection with the stabbing of a teenager on a Metro Vancouver transit bus last week.

Seventeen-yearold Ethan Bespflug was killed on a bus in Surrey, B.C., last Tuesday.

Police say they dont believe the attack was random and they hope to have an update on possible charges soon.

The family has said the teens mother realized something was wrong when she tracked her sons phone to a hospital in New Westminster. When she arrived she was told he had died.

Public Safety Minister Mike Farnworth says he has spoken to his federal counterpart, Marco Mendicino, about the issue of violence on public transit, which is occurring across Canada.

Farnworth says he expects to see an increased law enforcement presence on transit systems in B.C. after ministry officials met with policing agencies about transit safety.

Bespflugs aunt, Andrea Van Der Gracht, said in an earlier interview that Ethan was a good kid, and an older brother who worked hard to help look after his four siblings.

She said the teen regularly took the bus to Surrey, where his mother would pick him up for their drive home to Abbotsford, about an hour east.

Van Der Gracht said the family had moved from Surrey last year, partly because of concerns about crime.
Twitter Will Likely Play Significant Role in Upcoming Elections: Musk

Elon Musk gives interviews as he arrives at the Offshore Northern Seas 2022 meeting in Stavanger, Norway, on Aug. 29, 2022. (CARINA JOHANSEN/NTB/AFP via Getty Images)

Twitter will likely play a significant part in the 2024 presidential elections and other electoral contests both domestically and internationally, according to CEO Elon Musk.

Musk made the comments in an interview with Fox News host Tucker Carlson that aired in two parts on April 17 and 18.

Musk also admitted that it remains to be seen whether or not purchasing the platform for $44 billion last year was a good idea.

The goal of new Twitter is to be as fair and even-handed as possible. So not favoring any political ideology but being fair to all, Musk said, referencing upcoming elections both at home and abroad.

Carlson then asked Musk why Facebook, founded by Mark Zuckerberg, does not take the same stance.

My understanding is that [Zuckerberg] spent $400 million in the last election nominally in a get-out-the-vote campaign but fundamentally in support of Democrats. Is that accurate or not accurate? Does that sound unbiased to you? Musk asked Carlson, who replied that it was accurate.

Musk was referencing the $419 million that Zuckerberg and his wife reportedly donated to the Center for Technology and Civic Life and the Center for Election Innovation and Research, ahead of the 2020 election, which helped turn out the vote for Democrats.

Some Things Are Priceless

Elsewhere during his interview, Musk revealed that it is not yet clear whether his decision to purchase Twitter last year was financially smart but admitted that currently, it is not.

We just revalued the company at less than half of the acquisition price But some things are priceless, Musk said. Lose money or not, that is a secondary issue compared to ensuring the strength of democracy, and free speech is the bedrock of a functioning democracy.

A modified company sign is posted on the exterior of the Twitter headquarters in San Francisco, California, on April 10, 2023. Twitter CEO Elon Musk had the sign in front of Twitter headquarters modified by painting over the letter W in the Twitter name. (Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

The billionaire businessman also said he was shocked to learn of the governments alleged ability to access everything on Twitter when he took over the platform last year, including users private direct messages.

The degree to which government agencies effectively had full access to everything that was going on on Twitter blew my mind, Musk told Carlson. I was not aware of that.

Musk was asked by Carlson if this included users private messages on the platform, to which he explained it did.

Yes, because the DMs [direct messages] arent encrypted, Musk replied without elaborating further as to which government agencies allegedly had access to users private information on Twitter.

Twitter Files

Musk has previously released internal company documents on Twitter, dubbed the Twitter files, to various reporters detailing alleged collusion between Washington and the platform in order to censor free speech on multiple topics, including COVID-19.

The internal files also detailed how Twitter staffers worked to suppress a New York Post article about Hunter Bidens laptop ahead of the 2020 election and allegedly worked with the CIA on content moderation.

Responding to Musks latest revelation, Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) told Fox News that he had multiple questions about the governments alleged ability to intercept and monitor users private messages, including whether the rest of Big Tech was involved.

Is Google allowing the federal government to monitor Gmail, is Facebook allowing the federal government to monitor Messenger and WhatsApp? he said. Big Tech needs to be accountable: Are they helping the government spy on Americans? he added.

Musk also touched on the growing threat posed by advanced artificial intelligence, calling it a danger to the public.

Musk founded OpenAIthe creator of the artificial intelligence system ChatGPTwith Sam Altman in 2015 but has in recent months led calls for AI labs to immediately pause training systems that are more powerful than ChatGPT-4 for at least six months, citing concerns over their possible risks to society and humanity.

AI is more dangerous than, say, mismanaged aircraft design or production maintenance, or bad car production in the sense that it has the potentialhowever small one may regard that probability, but it is non-trivialit has the potential for civilizational destruction, Musk told Fox.
Ukraine Grain Import Bans Mount as Kyiv Seeks Transit Deal

Ukrainian flag is covered with grains in this picture illustration taken on May 9, 2022. (Dado Ruvic/Illustration/Reuters)

KYIV/RAVA-RUSKA, UkraineSlovakia on Monday joined Poland and Hungary in banning grain imports from Ukraine as even Kyivs staunchest allies come under domestic pressure to shield their agriculture markets.

The heat is mounting on Brussels to work out a European Union wide solution after Warsaw and Budapest announced bans on some imports from Ukraine at the weekend, with other countries in eastern Europe saying they are also considering action.

Farmers say imports from Ukraine have lowered prices and reduced their sales. In Poland, the issue has created a problem in an election year for the ruling nationalist Law and Justice (PiS) party that relies on rural areas for much of its support.

Ukraine needs help, but the costs of this help should be spread over all European countries, not just the frontline countries, especially Poland. We do not agree to this, because it harms our farmers, Polish agriculture minister Robert Telus said after talks that began in Warsaw on Monday.

Kyiv said it aims to re-open food and grain transit via Poland as a first step to ending import bans, but Telus said that no solution had so far been found to guarantee that the grain in transit would not end up on the local market.

Some Black Sea ports were blocked after Russias invasion of Ukraine began last year and logistical bottlenecks trapped large quantities of Ukrainian grain, which is cheaper than that produced in the EU, in Central European countries.

The Polish, Hungarian, and Slovakian export and transit bans come as a deal to allow the export of millions of tonnes of Ukrainian grain via the Black Sea, despite the Ukraine war, nears its May 18 expiry. Meanwhile, Russian demands have left the prospect of an extension of this deal uncertain.

The combined impact of the bans and failure to agree an extension would strand millions of tonnes of grain inside Ukraine, a major agricultural producer that makes a substantial part of its gross domestic product from food sales.

The first step  should be the opening of transit, because it is quite important and it is the thing that should be done unconditionally and after that we will talk about other things, Ukrainian Agriculture Minister Mykola Solsky said before the talks in Warsaw.

To prevent any grain entering its market, Polands ban also covered transit through the country, which imported 2.45 million tonnes of grain, or three quarters of total imports, from Ukraine in 2022, Polish Agriculture Ministry data showed.

The bans have left truck drivers stranded for several days in long traffic jams on the border baffled.

We cant go in either direction. Yes, the Poles reached out to us, Im very thankful to them. Im immensely grateful, the whole of Ukraine is, the whole world even. But now, Poland doesnt let [us] in for some reason, Mykola Bervin, a driver from Zhytomyr in Ukraine, told Reuters.

Bervin said he had been stuck for three days and the tailback was more than 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) long.

EU Action Inevitable

Slovakia approved halting imports indefinitely following Polands move, although it maintained transit, while the BTA news agency reported that Bulgarias agriculture minister also said the country could limit imports.

Istvan Nagy, Hungarys farm minister, said a solution was needed beyond the national level, calling eventual EU measures inevitable. The Czech Republic also urged an EU-wide solution while saying it would not introduce a ban itself for now.

Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, Romania, and Slovakia raised the issue with the European Commission last month, saying tariffs on Ukrainian imports should be considered, while states have also pushed for an EU purchase mechanism to buy up cheap grain.

Telus said that six countries would like to meet with the EU commissioner responsible for trade to find a solution.

A senior EU official said EU envoys would discuss Poland and Hungarys bans on Wednesdayafter the blocs executive said on Sunday that unilateral action was unacceptable.

The official said low global prices and demand meant grain was staying in the bloc rather than being sold on.

By Pavel Polityuk, Pawel Florkiewicz, and Andriy Perun
US, Allies Stage Drills as North Korea Warns of Security Crisis

South Korean Navy's destroyer Yulgok Yi I, bottom, U.S. Navy's the guided missile destroyer USS Benfold and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force's destroyer Atago, top, sail during a joint missile defense drill among South Korea, the United States and Japan in the international waters of the east coast of Korean peninsular on April 17, 2023. (South Korea Defense Ministry via AP)

SEOUL, South KoreaThe United States, South Korea, and Japan conducted a joint missile defense exercise on Monday aimed at countering North Koreas growing nuclear arsenal, as a top North Korean army official warned the United States that it risks a clearer security crisis and insurmountable threats.

Last week, North Korea conducted one of its most provocative weapons demonstrations in years by flight-testing for the first time an intercontinental ballistic missile powered by solid fuel. It is considered a more mobile, harder-to-detect weapon and could directly target the continental United States.

South Koreas navy said Mondays three-way drills took place in international waters off the countrys eastern coast and focused on mastering procedures for detecting, tracking, and sharing information on incoming North Korean ballistic missiles. The one-day naval exercise involved an Aegis destroyer from each country.

The drills goal is to improve our response capabilities against ballistic missiles and strengthen our ability to conduct joint operations as North Koreas nuclear and missile threats continue to escalate, Jang Do-young, a spokesperson for South Koreas navy, said at a news briefing.

The United States and South Korea also launched separate bilateral drills on Monday involving some 110 warplanes, including advanced F-35 fighter jets, that will continue through April 28.

The two sets of exercises could trigger a belligerent response from North Korea, which views the United States military drills with its Asian allies as invasion rehearsals. North Korea has used such drills as a pretext to accelerate its own weapons development, creating a tit-for-tat cycle that has raised tensions in recent months.

Later Monday, Ri Pyong Chol, a North Korean army marshal and close associate of leader Kim Jong Un, warned that the United States should stop at once its political and military provocations getting on the nerves of (North Korea).

If the U.S. persists in the acts of endangering the security environment on the Korean Peninsula in disregard of the repeated warnings by (North Korea), the latter will take necessary actions to expose the former to a clearer security crisis and insurmountable threats, Ri said in a statement carried by state media.

Without mentioning the drills that began Monday, Ri accused the United States and South Korea of having staged a series of large-scale joint military exercises simulating a preemptive nuclear strike and all-out war against North Korea. He also criticized the United States for calling for a meeting of the U.N. Security Council to discuss North Koreas solid-fuel ICBM launch, saying his country was exercising its right to self-defense.

Japan Maritime Self-Defense Forces destroyer Atago (L), U.S. Navys Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Barry (C), and South Korean Navys Aegis destroyer King Sejong the Great (R) sail during a joint missile defense drill among South Korea, the United States and Japan in the international waters of the east coast of Korean peninsular on Feb. 22, 2023. (South Korea Defense Ministry via AP)

Security Council resolutions ban North Korea from engaging in any ballistic activities. But the council has failed to impose new sanctions on North Korea despite its series of ballistic missile tests since early last year because of the opposition of China and Russia, which are both veto-wielding members.

North Koreas unprecedented run of weapons tests has so far involved more than 100 missiles of various ranges fired into the sea since the start of 2022 as it attempts to build a nuclear arsenal that could threaten its rival neighbors and the United States.

Experts say Kim wants to pressure the United States into accepting North Korea as a legitimate nuclear power and hopes to negotiate an easing of sanctions from a position of strength.

The United States and South Korea conducted their biggest field exercises in years in March and have also held separate naval and aerial drills involving a U.S. aircraft carrier battle group and nuclear-capable B-52 bombers.

North Koreas growing nuclear threat has also led South Korea and Japan to increase their security cooperation and mend ties that were strained by history and trade disputes. On Monday, South Korea and Japan held their first security meeting of senior diplomats and defense officials following a five-year hiatus. During the meeting, Seoul and Tokyo discussed North Koreas nuclear program and trilateral cooperation with the United States, according to Seouls Defense Ministry.

Japans Joint Staff in a statement stressed the need to strengthen trilateral cooperation as the security environment surrounding Japan increasingly becomes severe because of North Koreas missile activities.

For the 11th straight day on Monday, North Korea did not respond to South Korean checkup calls on a set of cross-border inter-Korean hotlines, South Korean officials said, raising concerns about potential incidents. Communications on those channels are meant to prevent accidental clashes along the rivals sea borders or to arrange talks.

On Saturday, a South Korean naval vessel fired warning shots to repel a North Korean patrol vessel that temporarily crossed the countries disputed western sea boundary while chasing a Chinese fishing boat.

There are signs that the costs of Kims campaign are piling up as North Korea apparently grapples with food insecurity and other domestic problems worsened by pandemic-related border restrictions that disrupted trade with China, its main ally and economic lifeline. Desperate for tangible economic achievements, Kims regime has prioritized construction and agricultural projects, which are less dependent on external trade while industrial production remains decimated by international sanctions and coronavirus-linked border shutdowns.
US Approves F-16 Upgrade After Turkey Eases Stand on NATO

WASHINGTONThe U.S. agreed Monday to sell Turkey $259 million in software it has long sought to upgrade its fleet of U.S. F-16 fighter jets. State Department approval of the sale comes about two weeks after Turkey dropped its objections to Finland joining NATO.

Turkey continues to withhold its approval for Sweden to join the military alliance. NATO requires unanimous approval to admit new members.

Turkey also still wants to buy 40 new F-16s from the United States, but some in Congress oppose the sale until Turkey approves NATO membership for both Nordic countries.

Turkey fell out of grace with the United States on high-tech military aircraft purchases after it decided in 2017 to acquire Russian air-defense missiles.

Turkey was kicked out of a U.S. program to develop the next-generation F-35 fighter plane and Turkish defense officials were sanctioned. The United States said the Russian missiles posed a threat to the F-35 and strongly objected to their use within the NATO alliance. Turkey sees the F-16s as an interim option to build up its air capability.

Mondays approval of the software sale will let Turkey update the avionics of its existing F-16 fleet. The State Department said the upgrade includes improvements in communications and security programs like the ground avoidance system. It called it an interoperability and basic safety-of-flight issue for Turkey and its allies.
KHARTOUM, April 18 (Xinhua) -- Sudan's Foreign Ministry on Tuesday accused the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) of attacking the headquarters of diplomatic missions in the capital Khartoum.

"The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses its deep regret and discontent over the rebel Rapid Support Forces' illegal and immoral attacks on diplomatic headquarters and missions," the ministry said in a statement.

"The desperate moves by the rebel Rapid Support Forces with armored vehicles and heavy weapons among residential neighborhoods and civilian places have put the headquarters and staff of diplomatic missions and international and regional organizations under imminent danger," it said.

The ministry called on diplomatic missions to take caution and immediately report such events.

On Monday, an armored vehicle belonging to the U.S. embassy in Khartoum came under a hail of bullets, while the residence of the European Union ambassador to Sudan was also attacked.

The violent clashes renewed on Tuesday morning around the vicinity of the Sudanese army command and the presidential palace, Khartoum International Airport, and around some RSF bases south of the capital Khartoum, according to eyewitnesses.

Sudan has been witnessing armed clashes between the Sudanese army and the RSF in Khartoum and other areas outside the capital since April 15, with the two sides accusing each other of initiating the conflict.

The tension between the two military forces has escalated since Wednesday in the Merowe region in northern Sudan, after the RSF moved military vehicles to a location near the military air base there, a move that the army considered illegal.

Deep differences have emerged between the Sudanese army and the RSF, particularly regarding the latter's integration into the army as stipulated in a framework agreement signed between military and civilian leaders on Dec. 5, 2022. 
US Helicopter Raid in Syria Kills ISIS Leader

A fighter from the Christian Syriac militia that battles the ISIS group under the banner of the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces, burns an ISIS flag on the front line on the western side of Raqqa, northeast Syria, on July 17, 2017. (Hussein Malla/AP Photo)

BEIRUTA helicopter raid by U.S. forces in northern Syria early on Monday killed a senior leader of the ISIS terrorist group, the U.S. military said.

The U.S. Central Command said in a statement that the ISIS leader, Abd-al-Hadi Mahmud al-Haji Ali, was responsible for planning terror attacks in the Middle East and Europe. Two other alleged ISIS members, were killed along with al-Haji Ali who was the target of the raid, CENTCOM said. The statement said no civilians or U.S. troops were hurt in the operation.

It said the raid was launched after intelligence uncovered a plan by ISIS to kidnap officials abroad as leverage for [ISIS] initiatives.

Syrias White Helmets, a civil defense group operating in opposition-held areas of northern Syria, said it transported two people wounded during the raid to a local hospital, which later said they had died. A third person was killed when the U.S. forces landed for the raid, the White Helmets said.

The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, which partners with the United States in anti-ISIS operations in northeast Syria, said that the operation was launched from a base near the town of Kobani and targeted a military site belonging to a Turkish-backed armed opposition group, Suqour al-Shamal, in the village of Suwayda in the region of Jarablus, near the Turkish border.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based war monitor, initially reported that the raid had resulted in the arrest of a senior ISIS leader and killed three people. The U.S. military made no mention of any arrests.

The Observatory said violent clashes took place after the helicopter landed, the first such landing this year.

At least 900 U.S. troops are deployed in Syria, along with an undisclosed number of contractors.

The ISIS terrorist group, which swept through Iraq and Syria in 2014, taking control of large swaths of territory, was defeated in Syria in 2019, but sleeper cells maintain a presence and periodically stage attacks on military and civilian targets.
War With China Is Not Inevitable: US Admiral

U.S. Admiral John C. Aquilino (L), commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, is welcomed to New Zealand with a traditional Powhiri, Guard of Honor, and Last Post Ceremony, at Wellington, New Zealand, on Aug. 1, 2022. (U.S. Embassy & Consulate in New Zealand)

A catastrophic conflict between China and the United States for the future freedom of Taiwan is not yet inevitable, according to the commander of the U.S. forces in the Indo-Pacific.

Despite numerous military provocations in the waters surrounding Taiwan, Chinas communist regime can still be deterred from launching a full-scale invasion of the democratic island, said Adm. John Aquilino, who heads the U.S. militarys Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM).

War is not inevitable, and its not imminent, Aquilino said during an April 18 hearing of the House Armed Services Committee. However, this decade presents a period of increased risk.

Conflict in the Indo-Pacific is not inevitable. But we cannot rest on our past accomplishments to secure a peaceful future.

Aquilino pointed to the Chinese Communist Partys (CCP) de facto alliance with Vladimir Putins Russia, and its increasing willingness to support destabilizing actions from powers like North Korea and Iran, as evidence of the ongoing challenge posed by the regime.

Two large authoritarian nations coming together in an attempt to change the world order in ways that are beneficial to authoritarian governments [as opposed to] the rest of the world, Aquilino said. Thats a pretty concerning space to be in.

Competition, not complacency, would be key to deterring a conflict in the coming years, he added.

US Preparing for Anything From China

With that competition in mind, Aquilino said that his command is ready and prepared for any contingency in the Indo-Pacific, but that communist Chinese forces frequently made regional security matters worse through their refusals to communicate with the U.S. military.

Indeed, for nearly two years, Aquilino said, the regimes officers have refused to communicate with him.

I have had a standing ask to meet with the Eastern Theater commander and the Southern Theater commander from the [Chinese military] for my entire time in this job, and they have yet to accept it, Aquilino said.

The revelation that CCP forces cut communication nearly two years ago adds new nuance to the ongoing struggles between the two nations militaries in the region.

Last August, the CCP announced retaliatory measures against the United States and its partners following former U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosis visit to Taiwan. Key among those measures was the cancellation of communications between U.S. and Chinese military commanders in the Indo-Pacific.

The move was seen at the time as a major escalation that reduced the two militaries ability to avoid miscommunication or harmful accidents. Aquilinos comments, however, shed light on the fact that the two nations have been operating a similar, if more limited, communications blackout for much longer.
West Virginia Lawmaker Leaves Democrat Party for GOP

A lawmaker in the West Virginia House of Delegates has switched allegiances from the Democratic Party to the Republican Party, shrinking his former partys presence in the states legislature.

Del. Elliott Pritt announced his party switch on Monday, bringing the balance of power in the House of Delegates to 89 Republicans and 11 Democrats. Pritt, who is in his first term, and won in a district previously held by a Republican, said he felt he needed to change parties if I am to accurately represent my constituents and my people as well as my own conscience.

It has become more and more obvious that there is very little room in the party for traditional values or differences regarding political opinion-we are being pushed out, Pritt wrote in a letter to Democratic House Minority Leader Doug Skaff and the dwindling Democratic Caucus in the House and posted on Facebook. The values, beliefs, and way of life that the people of Southern West Virginia and Fayette County hold dear are no longer compatible with the trajectory of the Democratic Party.

Pritt said he would continue to work with Democrats on issues of mutual interest such as supporting working people, public education, clean water, and issues that will help grow wages and benefits for working-class West Virginians but said he could no longer support or advocate for positions that the vast majority of my constituents do not support.

West Virginia Republican Party chairwoman Elgine McArdle welcomed Pritts party switch decision and, in a Monday statement, said, Like so many West Virginians, Delegate Pritt has recognized that the Democratic Party of today is not the Democratic Party that our parents grew up with.

The West Virginia Democratic Party called Pritt a human weathervane after the party switch and noted Pritt had previously been a self-avowed Socialist Party USA member, then joined the politically progressive environmentalist Mountain Party of West Virginia, and finished last in a seven-way 2018 election before winning his 2022 election as a Democrat.

Elliott Pritts decision reflects a lack of core values and honesty. West Virginians deserve reliable stewards of the public trust, not political hacks who flap in the breeze, said West Virginia Democratic Party second Vice-Chair Sam Petsonk. When Elliott grows disenchanted with the radical, self-centered, divisiveness of the GOP, and inevitably flops to another political home, voters should remember that political opportunism is not the stuff of which real leaders are made.

Skaff said he is disappointed in Pritts decision to switch parties, adding, Its kind of odd that just a few weeks ago, he was one of the most vocal Democrats working within our caucus to call out and hold Republicans accountable for their legislative agenda. Elliott made it clear that the Republicans had their priorities wrong on numerous occasions, and Im curious to see how well hell be received within his new caucus.

Democratic Lawmakers Switching Sides

Pritts decision to change party affiliation has come as numerous state Democratic lawmakers have left the party and switched affiliations to join Republicans.

North Carolina State Rep. Tricia Cotham switched from the Democratic Party to the Republican Party earlier this month, handing Republicans a supermajority in the states General Assembly.

Republicans also gained a supermajority in the Louisiana House of Representatives in March after Democrat Rep. Francis Thompson switched party affiliations. Republicans now hold supermajorities in both houses of the Louisiana state legislature, potentially increasing their ability to override vetoes by Democrat Gov. John Bel Edwards.

Republicans already held supermajorities in both houses of the West Virginia legislature. They gained 10 seats in West Virginias House of Delegates during the 2022 midterm election, moving the balance of power from a 78-22 Republican-controlled house to an 88-12 Republican-controlled house. Pritts party switch will thus have a marginal impact on the balance of power in the state legislature.

From NTD News
While in Washington DC, we spoke with retired Colonel John Mills. He explained to us not only what a war between Taiwan and China would look like, but also, what obligation the US would have if such a war were to take place.

This video is brought to you by Sekur: https://ept.ms/3yW0Wul
Wildflowers Blossom at Peters Canyon Regional Park

Flowers bloom along the trails of Irvine Regional Park in Tustin, Calif., on March 27, 2023. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

TUSTIN, Calif.Hiking trails along Peters Canyon Regional Park are filled with colorful arrays of wildflowers brought by intermittent rainstorms of Californias winter season.

The strong showing of wildflowers this year is due to the recent heavy rainfall, in which the rain triggers wildflower seeds to germinate, OC Parks Resource Specialist Kelley Brugmann told The Epoch Times. Peters Canyon Regional Park offers great opportunities to enjoy wildflower blooms, beautiful views, and wildlife sightings, all on the same hike

Wildflowers grow after heavy rains in Peters Canyon Regional Park in Tustin, Calif., on April 11, 2023. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

The last time the state saw a wildflower bloom of this caliber was in 2019, Brugmann said.

At Peters Canyon, hikers have the opportunity to see many different types of wildflowers, including blue-eyed grass, fiddlenecks, owls clover, lupine, morning glory, and California popcorn flowers, Brugmann said.

The bloom also brings into the park various types of birds looking for their next meal.

[You] can spot cactus wrens, gnatcatchers, and rufous-crowned sparrows in the parks coastal sage scrub and grasslands, Brugmann said.

Flowers bloom along the trails of Irvine Regional Park in Tustin, Calif., on March 27, 2023. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

Wildflowers grow after heavy rains in Peters Canyon Regional Park in Tustin, Calif., on April 11, 2023. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

The parks topography offers something for hikers of all levels of experiencefrom flat, casual strolls along creek beds to hilly climbs that lead to panoramic views.

Vibrant colors of yellow and green flowers appear along the steep inclines of a dirt trail in view of the 261-toll road.

Peters Canyon Regional Park has a front entrance, located in the city of Orange for a $3 parking fee, or in the City of Tustin with limited street parking.

The park is open from 7:00 a.m. to sunset.

For more info, please visit: https://www.ocparks.com/parks-trails/peters-canyon-regional-park

Wildflowers grow after heavy rains in Peters Canyon Regional Park in Tustin, Calif., on April 11, 2023. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)
Xi Jinping Inspects Chinas South China Sea Fleet as Regional Tensions Escalate

A map showing waters disputed by China in the South China Sea. (UNCLOS and the CIA)

Chinese leader Xi Jinping visited Chinas naval force in the South China Sea last weekat exactly the same time as the United States and the Philippines began their largest-ever joint military drills.

Xi visited the navy of the Southern Theater Command on April 11 after Chinas Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) Eastern Theater Command concluded its military exercises around Taiwan from April 8 to 10.

Expert analysis suggests that while Xis gesture signaled his ambition to dominate the South China Sea, the country that could most severely hinder Xis goal would actually be Vietnamwhich U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has just finished visiting.

Territorial Rights

Chinas military drill was a gesture of discontent toward the U.S.-Philippine military alliance, according to Su Ziyun, Director of National Defense Resources and Industry Research at the Institute for National Defense and Security Research in Taiwan.

On April 5, the Philippines announced the addition of four sites under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) with the United States, boosting the countrys capabilities to protect national interests and contribute to collective defense in the region.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. speaks during the 126th anniversary of the founding of the Philippine Army at Fort Bonifacio near Manila, Philippines, on March 22, 2023. (Ezra Acayan/Getty Images)

However, the CCP interpreted the move as an attempt to heighten regional tensions.

Military analyst Qi Leyi said that both China and the United States are now strategically active in preparedness: not necessarily for engaging in a war, but to be in a position to act swiftly.

He said that regional conflict between the communist regime and neighboring countries around the South China Sea has been frequent.

Taking Malaysia as an example, Qi said that just days after Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim concluded his visit to China, Chinese and Malaysian coast guard ships had a standoff in the South China Sea.

The conflict took place on the 7th in Qiongtai Jiaoalso known as the Luconia Breakersabout 150 kilometers off the Malaysian coastline.

Qi said that among the many regional countries in the South China Sea, Vietnam poses the greatest strategic uncertainty for the CCP.

He said, Vietnam has the Russian-built Kilo-class submarines: China has 12 of them, and Vietnam has six.

The vast north-to-south range of Vietnamese territory in the oil-rich South China Sea allows Vietnam to cut off the entire South China Sea from any point, Qi explained.

Vietnams deep-water Cam Ranh Bay is only around 280 miles away from the hotly contested Spratly Islandsclaimed by China, Taiwan and Vietnam, and in part by Malaysia and the Philippineswhile Sanya, the southernmost tip of China, is more than 620 miles from the Spratly atolls.

Theres no way China could turn against Vietnam, Qi said.

Haizhong Ning and Luo Ya contributed to this report.
Congress workers hold torch protest for removal of liquor shop from Cherital area





Staff Reporter

Several leaders and workers of the Congress Party took out a huge torch procession demanding removal of a liquor shop from Cherital area. They conducted the procession on the fifth day of the ongoing indefinite dharna (sit-in protest) organised by the Congress Party for the demand of shifting the Cherital Liquor Shop to another location.

Speaking on the occasion, Saurabh Sharma, General Secretary of MPCC openly challenged the police administration, stating that they would have to answer in court for their conduct regarding the illegal liquor shop. He also emphasized that the ongoing protest would not be limited to Cherital alone, but will be extended to all illegally operated liquor shops within the municipal limits.

City Congress President Jagat Bahadur Singh informed the people that orders would be given to examine the map of the Cherital liquor shop, based on the memorandum submitted by the residents of the area earlier. If the liquor shop is found to be illegal in the investigation, action will be taken under the relevant sections of the Municipal Corporation.

To extend support, a number of Youth Congress office bearers also staged a hunger strike at the dharna site.

The Congress Partys demand for the removal of liquor shop in Cherital has gained momentum, with leaders and workers taking to the streets in a torch procession, promising to continue their fight against illegal liquor shops in the city. Those participated in the procession were Mukesh Rathore, Tikaram Koshta, Sandeep Jain, Sudha Kewat, Neelam Thakar, Neelam Khanna, Shubham Agarwal, Malkhan Patel and others.
Death toll due to sunstroke at awardevent in Maharashtra rises to 13





MUMBAI :

THE death toll due to sunstroke at the Maharashtra Bhushan award event in Navi Mumbai rose to 13 after the death of a 55-year-old man while eight patients are undergoing treatment, a civic official said on Monday. The deceased included nine women and four men. The award ceremony was held in the open ground in Kharghar area of Navi Mumbai on Sunday morning, which wasattended by several lakh people, most of them followers of social worker AppasahebDharmadhikari who was conferred with Maharashtras topcivilian award by Union HomeMinister Amit Shah. All bodies have been identified and their post-mortemwas performed. The bodieswere handed over to their relatives, said Panvel Municipal Corporation(PMC)commissioner Ganesh Deshmukh. PMC deputy commissioner Vitthal Dake said eight patients are undergoing treatment at a hospital in Kamothe in Navi Mumbai, while 16 others were discharged. The condition of the eight hospitalised patients is stable, he added. AMIT SHAH CONDOLES DEATH OF ATTENDEES AT AWARD EVENT:UNION Home Minister Amit Shah expressedgriefoverthedeath of some attendees of the MaharashtraBhushanaward event due to sunstroke in Navi Mumbai a day earlier.

The death of people who attended Sundays MaharashtraBhushanaward function has deeply saddened me. I express my condolences to the families ofthedeceased.Iprayforthe recovery of those who are currently being treated, Shah tweeted. CONG SLAMS BJP-SENA GOVT, SAYS FIX ACCOUNTABILITY FOR CULPABLE HOMICIDE: THE Congress attacked the BJP-Shiv Sena GovernmentinMaharashtra over the loss of lives due to sunstroke at an award function in Navi Mumbai, and demandedthataccountability be fixedinwhatit saidwas acaseofculpablehomicide.
DEEP MALAISE





T HE enforcement agencies m a k i n g s e i z u r e s totalling more than Rs 170 crore in pollbound Karnataka, is just another indication as to how deep is the malaise of malpractices in electoral process. The political parties as well as electorate both are to be blamed for continuing of this malaise. Both look at the serious democratic exercise of election from the point of view of selfish gains. On one hand, political parties pour in crores and crores of rupees in cash or in the form of liquor or freebies. On the other, a large segment in the electorate chooses to fall for such doles by political parties. Despite the calls from saner segments of the society and some committed individuals in bureaucracy and polity, there is collective failure in removing this ache in democratic system. Sadly, political parties giving a call for doing away with corruption while targeting the rivals, do not act against own flock indulging in such corrupt practices. Those championing the cause of democracy, shy away from concrete action.The enforcement agencies also, as if a matter of practice, do not reveal at whose doorstep the trail of seized cash ends. So, the deep malaise continues. But, with Indias growing global stature, this malaise will have to be dealt with soon.

DONT PANIC

S UDDEN spike in COVID-19 positive cases across the country has spread a wave of fear among the people, especially the elderly as they are the most susceptible to the virus. The current rise in cases is attributed to the XBB.1.16 variant, which is a sub-variant of Omicron. It is infectious and spreads very quickly as can be ascertained by the increase in positive cases each day. However, the good news in the spike is that majority of the infections are mild and do not require hospitalisation. The rate of hospitalisation is the most determining factor in the coronavirus scenario. Higher the number of hospitalisation, stricter would be the measures to control the spread. Fortunately, like the previous threat of another mutant, hospitals are still not being approached by the patients. It is a good sign as the infection can be then termed only as a normal fever which needs rest of around a week to subside. The situation does not warrant a panicky reaction both, from the administration and the people. As former AIIMS Delhi Director Dr Randeep Guleria has said the situation is not the one to induce panic. The only solution, yet again, is masks, sanitisers and proper distance.
Environment clearance must for projects falling under EIA Notification 2006: Govt





By Kaushik Bhattacharya

On the directions of Western Bench of National Green Tribunal (NGT), the Government of Maharashtra has issued an order making Environment Clearance (EC) mandatory for those projects falling under the Environment Impact Assessment Notification, 2006 (EIA Notification). The Tribunal, in a judgement, stated that Maharashtra should review its working in the light of the judgements of the Supreme Court of India and violations frequently being alleged. A proper Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) be laid down for grant of EC in such cases so as to address the gaps in binding law and practice being currently followed. The Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) may also consider circulating such SOP to all State Environment Impact Assessment Authorities (SEIAA) in the country, the order stated.

The Maharashtra State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (MSEIAA) took due note of the concerns raised by the Tribunal about constructions done on site without prior environment clearance and is of the firm belief that, all efforts must be diligently made to ensure that the EIA Notification, 2006 is observed in all cases wherever it is applicable. According to the Government Resolution (GR), In order to achieve the mandate of ensuring strict observance of EIA Notification, 2006 effective co-ordination between Local Planning Authority, MSEIAA, Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) and Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in necessary, for each plays a critical role well defined by notifications or office memorandums under Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and Notification or Development Control Regulations under Maharashtra Regional Town Planning Act.
LUSAKA, April 18 (Xinhua) -- The Zambian government said on Tuesday that it is closely monitoring the conflicts in Sudan to ensure the safety of its citizens.

Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Stanley Kakubo said there were about 30 known Zambians residing in various cities in Sudan but so far all of them are safe.

The Zambians include eight security officers on peacekeeping missions, six university students and 16 employees of various international organizations including the United Nations, said Kakubo in a statement.

Conflicts emerged in Sudan on Saturday. Four of the Zambians have since left Sudan for a safer destination with the help of their employers, Kakubo said, adding that the Zambian embassy in Ethiopia, which oversees Sudan, is in constant touch with the citizens still in Sudan. 
Health services in State to hit as doctors, nurses to go on indefinte strike from May 3





Staff Reporter

More than 10,000 doctors of Madhya Pradesh are preparing to go on an indefinite strike from May 3. In this, the nursing staff will also support them. In such a situation, the health system of the State is bound to come to a grinding halt. The doctors across the State are angry due to non-fulfillment of their demands, due to which they are preparing to agitate again. To prepare its outline, a meeting was organised at the Indore Government Autonomous Medical Association on Sunday. About 110 delegates from all 52 district hospitals, 19 medical colleges attended the meeting and 70 delegates participated online.

Federations Secretary Dr Rakesh Malviya told in the meeting that the officials of the Government are being negligent in issuing orders for the report of the high-level committee constituted by the Chief Minister of the State. For this reason, the federation has decided to agitate again. He told that this movement was postponed by the doctors on February 17, 2023, at the behest of Chief Minister Shivraj Chouhan.

The high-level committee formed on the same day was to submit its report to the Chief Minister in a month, after that the movement was postponed on the issue of issuing orders for quick governance on the report of the high-level committee, but even after two months no orders have been issued. However, the federation has given two weeks time to the Government to implement the report and issue an order. He told that from Monday onwards, Promise Remembrance Day will be celebrated everyday and the date of work stop movement will be informed to the administration.
INDIAS GROWING INFLUENCE





BY ANIL TRIGUNAYAT :

The G20 Summit expanse, Vaccine Maitri, growing soft power, increasing hard power, top performing fifth largest economy and functional largest democracy or even mother of democracy and becoming a Voice of the Global South as well as her strategic autonomy and leadership in fighting injustice, climate change and terrorism have added up to make India a global power to be reckoned with in every major strategic calculation and announcements and explicit recognition of this fact by major global powers.

C HINA will be an ongoing challenge for the Indian foreign and security policy establishment. Its hegemonistic ambitions are clearly evident from the fact that its territorial ingress and disputes are with more countries than it shares a border with. After the perfidious war of 1962, India became wiser and focussed on creating stronger defences against Chinese designs which have become far more robust during the past few years as greater focus on creating state of the art border infrastructure and quick response mechanisms have been created. The unwritten peace for decades broke down when Galwan happened in 2020. But Indias firm and determined counter-action and eyeball-toeyeball response made Beijing pause and think if it could push its luck further. Despite India and China cooperating in multilateral and regional formats like G20, SCO, BRICS and RIC and even 18- 19 meetings between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinas President Xi Jinping, the loud and clear message was conveyed that border incursions and nefarious designs on Indias sovereignty and territorial integrity will not be tolerated at any cost. As India prefers dialogue and Diplomacy and perhaps China would also not like to indulge in foolhardy and MAD (Mutually Assured Destruction) syndrome, painfully slow border talks and discussions in theWMCC have continued to contain the situation from further escalation.

Even then repeat incursions in Tawang and psy-ops in Arunachal and elsewhere have continued unabated but have met with firm response. India has followed a policy of Competition with Cooperation but China has added another C of Containment of India through its String of Pearls strategy, Belt and Road Initiative and pivoting an unstable Pakistan and its terrorist designs against India. It is imperative that the SAGAR doctrine and Indian Ocean initiatives will need to be further accentuated as the relationships with other major powers in QUAD and other formats provide greater heft to Indian response potential in the event of her interests are challenged by the Chinese hegemonistic ambitions. Like rest of the world, Indias trade and economic engagement has moved apace crossing over $125 bn with huge trade deficit in Chinas favour with critical dependencies still inherent which would need to be addressed both through futuristic policy refinements in a dynamic manner and alternate credible partnerships to enable India to be a trusted part of the global and regional value and supply chains. India has taken some actions like banning apps and calibrating the FDI and FII policies with regard to China. Beijing, despite having a five times larger economy, considers India a credible competitor of consequence and hence wishes to undermine and contain it within the neighbourhood and its Asian periphery. But India does not seem to mind this challenge and is ready to accept it head-on since the world is its oyster. The G20 Summit expanse, Vaccine Maitri, growing soft power, increasing hard power, top performing fifth largest economy and functional largest democracy or even mother of democracy and becoming a Voice of the Global South as well as her strategic autonomy and leadership in fighting injustice, climate change and terrorism have added up to make India a global power to be reckoned with in every major strategic calculation and announcements and explicit recognition of this fact by major global powers.

One area in which China has mastered is the art of deception and Grey Zone and disinformation campaigns and warfare which would pose India a major challenge going forward especially as it enters the election year. Hence it is essential to have a proactive, dynamic and comprehensive communication strategy with sharpened toolkits. Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has often reiterated that while border tensions continue, business as usual cant be the model for interaction with Beijing. His 3Ms prescription of Mutual Respect, Mutual Interest, and Mutual Sensitivity could provide the matrix going forward provided Beijing is on board - which is unlikely as the global order remains in transition. Caution is the buzzword and capacity to inflict costs is a way out. (IANS) (Anil Trigunayat is Indias former Ambassador to Jordan, Libya, and Malta and a Distinguished Fellow at the Vivekananda International Foundation)
India will work with Russia to resolve trade imbalances, says Jaishankar





NEW DELHI,

EXTERNAL Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Monday said that India will work with Russia to resolve trade imbalances. Addressing the India-Russia business dialogue organised by industry body FICCI, the Minister said, There are understandable concerns about trade imbalance and we need to work with our Russian counterparts to address this imbalance. We should be honest about short and medium-term challenges. There could be over-compliance. He further said that there is a need to motivate business on both sides. You can see that there are big changes going on like Make in India. We are determined to make India a global manufacturing hub. I want to emphasise on the opportunity of Make in India, Jaishankar added.
Jagadish Shettar joins Cong in Ktaka





BENGALURU,

SENIOR BJP leader and former Karnataka Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar on Monday joined the Congress, dealing a blow to the ruling party ahead of the May 10 Assembly elections. Lashing out at the BJP for humiliating him and not giving him a chance for an honourable exit, the former State BJP President said, he was beginning a new episode in his life by joining the Congress. The decision to part ways with the BJP came after the 67-year-old six time MLA, a former Leader of Opposition in the Assembly, ex-Speaker and a party President in the past, was denied ticket to contest from the Hubli-Dharwad (Central) segment, which he represented in the outgoing Lower House.

The Lingayat leader from north Karnataka region embraced the Congress in the presence of AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge, General Secretaries K C Venugopal and Randeep Singh Surjewala (Karnataka in-charge), KPCC President D K Shivakumar and Legislature Party leader and former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. The Congress was emboldened by Shettars move. With this, the Lingayats will turn against the BJP and shift towards the Congress, the partys Campaign Committee Chairman M B Patil said. Last week, former Deputy Chief Minister and another Lingayat leader Laxman Savadi quit the BJP after being overlooked for the Athani seat and joined the Congress.

After joining the party, Shettar was given a B-form by Shivakumar as a Congress candidate from Hubli-Dharwad (Central) Assembly segment for the upcoming polls. Shettar, who resigned as MLA on Sunday, was asked by the BJP top brass to make way for others as part of the partys strategy to groom the next generation of leaders but he was firm on contesting. Im quitting the BJP and joining the Congress today, Shettar said.
SC asks Varanasi Collector to hold meet to provide wazu facilities at Gyanvapi





NEW DELHI,

THE Supreme Court on Monday asked the Varanasi District Collector to hold a meeting for providing congenial working arrangements for wazu (ritual ablution) for Muslim devotees at the Gyanvapi mosque complex. A bench comprising Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and justices P S Narasimha and J B Pardiwala was apprised by Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Uttar Pradesh Government, that the meeting would be held on Tuesday and the decision will be implemented for providing facilities for wazu on the premises.

The court was hearing a plea by the Anjuman Intezamia Masjid committee seeking permission for wazu at the mosque complex in Varanasi during the month of Ramzan. The top court referred to its order of May 20 last year where it had directed that facilities for wazu and washrooms be provided to devotees following the sealing of certain areas inside the premises. The Solicitor General assures the court that a meeting shall be convened tomorrow by the district collector so that a congenial working arrangement is provided, the bench noted in the order. The bench also recorded the statement of the mosque management committee that it will be satisfied if even mobile toilets are provided.

The court has now posted the matter for further hearing on Friday and directed that the solution, if found in the meeting, can be implemented in the meanwhile and a formal order may be passed on the next date of hearing. The apex court had on November 11 last year extended till further orders the protection of the area where a Shivling was claimed to have been found.
WASHINGTON (AP)  Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell is back at work in the U.S. Capitol on Monday, almost six weeks after a fall at a Washington-area hotel and extended treatment for a concussion.

The longtime Kentucky senator, 81, has been recovering at home since he was released from a rehabilitation facility March 25. He fell after attending an event earlier that month, injuring his head and fracturing a rib.

McConnell arrived at the Capitol early Monday and is expected to work a full schedule in the Senate this week.

In brief remarks on the Senate floor as the chamber came back into session after a two-week recess, McConnell criticized President Joe Biden for not doing enough to negotiate on the nation's debt ceiling and thanked his colleagues for their well-wishes.

I'm very happy to be back, McConnell said. There's important business for Congress to tackle.

And he joked, Suffice it to say, this wasn't the first time that being hard-headed has served me very well.

McConnell returns to the Senate ahead of a busy stretch in which Congress will have to find a way to raise the debt ceiling and negotiate additional aid for the Ukraine war, among other policy matters. And he comes back as several other senators have been out for medical reasons, raising questions about how much the Senate will be able to achieve in the coming months with a 51-49 split between the parties.

Already, the GOP leader's absence, along with those of Democratic Sens. Dianne Feinstein and John Fetterman, among others, have added to the Senate's lethargic pace in the first few months of the year. Unlike the last two years, in which Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer was able to push through key elements of President Joe Biden's agenda with the help of a Democratic-led House, the Senate has been significantly slowed with Republicans now in charge in the House. And absences have made even simple votes like nominations more difficult.

One immediate question for McConnell upon his return is whether to help Democrats temporarily replace Feinstein on the Senate Judiciary Committee as she continues to recover in California from a case of the shingles. Democrats have become increasingly frustrated as the Democrat's more than six-week absence on the panel has stalled confirmation of some of Bidens nominees, and Feinstein has asked for a short-term substitute on the committee.

Democrats cant do that, though, without help from Republicans, since approval of the process would take 60 votes on the Senate floor. Two GOP members of the Judiciary panel, Sens. Tom Cotton of Arkansas and Marsha Blackburn of Tennessee, have already said they don't believe that Republicans should help Democrats replace Feinstein.

It is unclear when Feinstein, 89, will return to Washington. Her office has so far declined to say.

Also returning to the Senate on Monday was Fetterman, who was hospitalized for clinical depression in February. He was treated for six weeks at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, and his doctors say his depression is now in remission.

Fettermans announcement that he was checking himself into the hospital earlier this year came after he suffered a stroke last year and has struggled with auditory processing disorder, which can render someone unable to speak fluidly and quickly process spoken conversation into meaning. The Pennsylvania Democrat, 53, now uses devices in conversations, meetings and congressional hearings that transcribe spoken words in real time.

In a statement when he was released from Walter Reed late last month, Fetterman said the care he received there changed my life."

Im excited to be the father and husband I want to be, and the senator Pennsylvania deserves, said Fetterman, who won praise for his decision to seek treatment.

McConnell visited his Capitol office on Friday ahead of his Monday return. In video captured by NBC News, he walked into the building without assistance as aides kept close by.

This was the second major injury for McConnell in recent years. Four years ago he tripped and fell at his home in Kentucky, causing a shoulder fracture that required surgery. The Senate had just started a summer recess, and he worked from home for some weeks as he recovered.

McConnell had polio in his early childhood and he has long acknowledged some difficulty as an adult in climbing stairs.
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CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP)  An abortion provider on Monday dropped a two-month-old federal lawsuit seeking to overturn West Virginias near-total ban.

The Women's Health Center of West Virginia said in a court filing that its primary physician determined he will be unable to resume providing abortion care in the state due to intervening professional obligations. Another physician who provided abortion care at West Virginia's only abortion clinic prior to the passage of a law last year is no longer available, the filing said.

While the developments have not necessarily rendered the case moot, the plaintiffs have determined that it is in their best interests and the interests of judicial economy to voluntarily dismiss this case without prejudice at this time, according to the filing in federal court in Charleston.

The lawsuit filed Feb. 1 named the West Virginia Board of Medicines president and secretary as defendants. It claimed the law was unconstitutional, irrational and caused irreparable harm to the clinic and its patients.

State Attorney General Patrick Morrisey, who had intervened on behalf of the state, said my office stands ready to defend this clearly constitutional law to the fullest should this lawsuit be refiled, or against any other legal challenge.

The lawsuit had asked for a halt to the abortion ban while the case was heard. Republican Gov. Jim Justice on Sept. 16 signed a bill passed earlier that week making West Virginia the second state to enact a law prohibiting the procedure since the U.S. Supreme Court's June ruling overturning its constitutional protection.

The Charleston clinic suspended abortions shortly after lawmakers passed the bill and provided West Virginia women with resources to book appointments out-of-state and funding to help cover the costs of travel and the procedure, clinic Executive Director Katie Quinonez said.

Last month Quinonez announced she will serve as executive director of an abortion clinic that will open in June in Cumberland, Maryland, which is close to the West Virginia border.

The West Virginia law requires abortions to be performed by a physician at a hospital  a provision that at least two Republican lawmakers have said was intended to shut down abortions at the Womens Health Center, which had provided the procedure since 1976. Under the law, providers who perform illegal abortions can face up to 10 years in prison.

The state's abortion ban has exemptions for medical emergencies and for rape and incest victims until eight weeks of pregnancy for adults and 14 weeks for those under the age of 18. Victims must report their assault to law enforcement 48 hours before the procedure. Minors can report to the police or a doctor, who then must tell police.

More than a dozen states now have abortion bans, though most were approved before the Supreme Court ruling and took effect once the court threw out the constitutional right to end a pregnancy.
Harmful.

The word describes the organized movement thats sprung up in opposition to the legislative efforts of the pro-homes advocacy organizations that work to address Connecticuts housing crisis.

This negative opposition force, reflecting an anti-growth mindset, is founded upon being against  anti  state housing initiatives, but presents itself in pro language. It self-defines as pro-homes, which means promotion of single-family homeownership and protection of local zoning from state interference and mandates. To preserve community character and keep taxes down these anti-advocates seek to minimize density of development, constrain population growth, limit infrastructure capacity, and avoid increased student population.

Considering Connecticuts housing needs, this myopic anti-advocacy that emanates from the states wealthiest Fairfield County towns does us a disservice.

According to the National Low Income Housing Coalition, theres a shortage of 89,013 rental units affordable to extremely low-income renters in Connecticut, with other estimates that between 86,000 and 135,000 new housing units are required to meet the need. This housing shortage drives up housing costs with dire consequences for families and individuals of low and moderate income. More than half of Connecticut renters are cost burdened, which means more than 30 percent of their income is spent keeping a roof over their heads. Data from the National Low Income Housing Coalition indicates that 68 percent of extremely low-income households in Connecticut are severely cost burdened.

Cost burdened families, especially lower income households, live with the ever-present possibility of eviction and homelessness. They also live with food anxiety and must constantly make difficult spending choices that often preclude adequate health care. Moreover, the over-priced housing thats available to them is often dilapidated and unsafe, with serious code violations.

Many speakers at the state legislatures Feb. 28 Housing Committee public hearing spoke to bills that addressed the human consequences of this housing insecurity, the increase in evictions and homelessness, tenants rights, and stronger measures to correct code violations. Given this backdrop of testimony, it was disconcerting to hear the arguments of the anti-advocates coming from places of wealth.

Maria Weingarten of New Canaan, a leading anti-advocate, spoke against HB 6633, which proposes a housing needs assessment and municipal fair share plans to increase affordable housing supply. The subtext of her message is that towns have no fair share responsibility.

Despite anti-advocacy, the bill was voted out of committee.

Anti-advocacy elitism was highlighted during the March 15 Planning and Development public hearing where anti-advocates were out in force, their sights set on HB 6890, the Work, Live, Ride legislative proposal that encourages concentrated development around train stations and bus lines. Unlike the fair share bill, HB 6890 has no mandates, only incentives to opt-in as a transit-oriented community.

When asked during the hearing why she advocated so passionately, Weingarten, an anti-advocate, invoked single-family homeownership as the American dream, and voiced concern about attempts to change the look and feel of our 169 towns.

She neglected to say that 90.6 percent of Connecticuts land is zoned for single-family housing, while only 2 percent of the land allows for as of right housing of four or more units.

Former state legislator Kimberly Fiorello, who represented parts of Greenwich and Stamford, expressed similar concerns about destruction of our charming New England towns and stressed the role of single-family homeownership in building lives.

These statements were jarring given that average single-family homes in Greenwich and New Canaan sell for multi-millions of dollars and will always be unattainable for most people. Many who spoke in favor of HB 6890 felt single-family home ownership was out of their reach anywhere in Connecticut. Many young speakers dreamed of an affordable rental that would allow them to stay in Connecticut.

Despite the anti-advocacy, HB 6890 was voted out of committee.

Connecticuts exodus of young people and lack of diverse types of housing affordable at a variety of income levels harms the states economy, as does the anti-growth mindset reflected in the anti-advocacy arguments, something the legislatures Democratic leadership realizes.

Several housing bills, voted out of committee, await floor action. Hopefully, when the legislative sausage making is done, new housing legislation will take Connecticut beyond the harmful status quo advocated by anti-advocates in wealthy communities where property values rise with housing scarcity.
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BOWDOIN, Maine (AP)  Four people were fatally shot at a house in Maine on Tuesday shortly before gunfire wounded three others on a busy highway, in a pair of crimes that are linked, authorities said. Hours later, a man was charged with murder.

Police closed a portion of the interstate highway and residents and businesses in the area were ordered to shelter in place for about 90 minutes before authorities determined there was no threat to the general public.

The shootings are among a spate of recent mass killings that have shaken communities both large and small, including a Christian elementary school in Nashville, Tennessee; a bank in Louisville, Kentucky and a Sweet 16 party in a small city in Alabama.

In Maine, police charged Joseph Eaton, 34, of Bowdoin, with four counts of murder Tuesday evening but declined to discuss a possible motive for the shootings or identify the shooting victims. Eaton was expected to appear in court later this week.

The crimes began in rural Bowdoin, where the bodies were found, and continued with gunfire 25 miles (40 kilometers) to the south on Interstate 295 in Yarmouth, police said. One of the three highway victims was critically wounded, police said.

Law enforcement officers, some carrying long rifles, could be seen canvassing areas near the highway after the shootings. At one point, heavily armed officers at an off-ramp peered inside the trunk of a car that had apparent bullet holes in the windshield. Police said a person of interest was detained, and witnesses saw one person in handcuffs.

In Bowdoin, a farming community with about 3,000 residents, yellow crime tape hung where the shootings took place, in a home flanked by woods at the end of a long, gravel driveway. About 10 marked and unmarked law enforcement vehicles and a crime scene van were parked outside, and investigators moved about the scene.

At one point, a woman spoke to police outside the house before dropping to her knees and sobbing. Later, hearses were seen leaving from the driveway.

The town of Bowdoin has no affiliation with Bowdoin College, which is located about 10 miles (16 kilometers) away, in the town of Brunswick.

Maine Gov. Janet Mills tweeted her concern for the families, friends and loved ones of those impacted by this tragedy. She said she was praying for the injured.

Like people across Maine, I am shocked and deeply saddened. Acts of violence like we experienced today shake our state and our communities to the core, she said.

In Yarmouth, traffic backed up on the interstate as police shut down the southbound lanes. The highway reopened later Tuesday, with the exception of one exit where the police were inspecting the car.

Employees at Water Treatment Equipment Inc., a business near the highway, locked the doors and pulled down the shades after being alerted to the lockdown, which lasted about an hour and a half, manager Kim Snyder said. Workers saw cars backing up on the highway, along with police cars, ambulances and fire trucks.

It definitely shifted the day, and the worry kicked in, she said. They hadnt caught the active shooter. We didnt know what was going on."

Lenora Felker, who works near the highway at Rosemont Market and Bakery, said she sensed something was afoot when people started streaming in, saying the highway was closed, followed by dozens of law enforcement officers who descended on the area.

Officers went business to business asking if they had seen anyone that was wet and muddy fleeing, Felker said. But she knew all the customers and didnt see anything unusual, she said.

___

Sharp reported from Portland. Associated Press photographer Robert Bukaty in Bowdoin and writers Michael Casey and Steve LeBlanc in Boston contributed to this report.
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WOOD RIVER  Local fire officials breathed a a sigh of relief Monday afternoon when there was no leakage from a three-tank car derailment near the Phoebe Goldberg Overpass.

The trio of tank cars carrying sulfuric acid remained upright and Wood River fire officials said there was no release of liquid.

The derailment happened on tracks 200 feet north of of the Phoebe Goldberg Overpass, which carries Illinois Route 143 traffic through the community.

The cars were part of a northbound train carrying more than 20 tank cars of sulfuric acid. The incident happened about 2 p.m. Monday and no injuries were reported.

The tank cars were properly marked with DOT placards identifying contents as sulfuric acid and Wood River Fire Department Chief Wade Stalhut confirmed the contents at the scene Monday where firefighters were standing by.

Railroad workers from both Kansas City Southern and Union Pacific were on the scene but it wasn't clear who had responsibility for maintaining the stretch of track where the derailment occurred.

A representative from Madison County Emergency Management was present and a fire official from the Phillips 66-operated Wood River Refinery in Roxana also came to inspect the cars.

Many Wood River firefighters still have vivid memories of handling the June 2021 leak of sulfuric acid involving four tank cars just south of Monday's derailment. That incident lasted for days when a pressure relief disc ruptured venting sulfuric acid.

A water curtain was maintained for days and air monitoring was set up around the town in that incident.

The cause of Mondays derailment is under investigation.
JUBA, April 18 (Xinhua) -- South Sudan and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) on Tuesday launched a nationwide campaign aimed at improving the livelihoods of teachers in order to prevent them from school abstention.

South Sudan's Ministry of General Education and Instruction, the European Union, the African Development Bank (AfDB), and the Global Partnership for Education said in a joint statement in the South Sudanese capital of Juba that the campaign aims to address the challenges teachers face by improving their livelihoods and the overall quality of education for the future of children in the East African country.

"The campaign aims to ensure that teachers receive regular, on-time payments and proper training; the campaign will enable the retention of highly skilled educators in the sector, who will in turn provide better teaching to their students and contribute to the nation's progress," it said.

Eric Alain Ategbo, UNICEF South Sudan acting representative, said teachers support the all-around development of children, and their contribution to the education system is invaluable.

"Our joint efforts aim to provide the necessary resources, training, and support to ensure they can continue their vital work and ultimately help build a better future for the children of South Sudan," Ategbo said.

He said the campaign will also focus on fostering a supportive environment for teachers by promoting their professional development and career growth and enhancing teacher motivation.

"By advocating for investment in teachers, the campaign hopes to create a sustainable and positive impact on the education sector in South Sudan," he said.

Zaharia Matur Makter, chair of the higher education committee in the Transitional National Legislative Assembly, said training of teachers is critical to improving the provision of quality education. "When they are trained, you also motivate them. When you pay them, you keep them in schools; you keep them in the teaching profession," Matur said.

The UNICEF estimates more than 2.8 million children, or over 70 percent, are out of school in South Sudan due to poverty, conflicts, and child marriages, with girls forming the largest number of out-of-school children in South Sudan, partly due to cultural and religious views.

The UNICEF disclosed that some of the out-of-school children are living in pastoral communities, moving with their cattle, and are not able to attend regular classes. 
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Linkedin Inforial (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Tue, April 18, 2023 09:20 8 5fceed71997e5776a1634d25dc4fb6c1 4 Inforial Batam Free

Under the leadership of Muhammad Rudi, the Badan Pengusahaan Batam (BP Batam) is focusing on the development of infrastructure and superstructure that has strategic value. One of these developments is Batu Ampar Port, which has been operating for decades but which still utilizes conventional loading and unloading equipment that is inefficient by todays standards.

To commence the transformation of Batu Ampar Port, a multi-stage development process was required. Starting with the autogate system that was established in January of 2022, BP Batam continued on to the next stage by developing suprastructure with the addition of a ship to shore (STS) crane in the fiscal year of 2022.

The STS crane, produced by Korin Corporation, arrived in Batu Ampar on April 8, shipped from Pohang in South Korea, aboard the Dongbang Giant No 1 ship.

The improvement acquired by adding the STS crane is a significant reduction in the port dwell time. Beforehand, the unloading of containers from ships at Batu Ampar Port took around one hour, and it was only possible to move around four to eight containers. But with the use of the STS crane, the time it takes to move one container is less than two minutes, resulting in over 35 containers being moved per hour.

The STS crane is also a manifestation of BP Batams efforts to transform Batu Ampar Port into a green port. This is because the new crane uses electricity, an imperative upgrade to the previous conventional diesel crane that produced pollution.

. (./.)

The development of Batu Ampar Ports infrastructure and suprastructure is expected to increase the volume of loading and unloading from 528,093 TEUs in 2021 to around 770,000 by 2025 and 1.6 million TEUs by 2028. To achieve said targets, BP Batam has established partnerships with local Batam companies to add more tools and expand the container yard up to Institute of International Container Lessors (IICL) standards, which is 8.7 hectares by 2025 and 20 ha by 2028.

Muhammad Rudi states that BP Batam wishes to make Batu Ampar Port the premier modern logistic hub for Indonesia in the near future. And for that to happen, he stresses that a strategic plan that involves investment partnerships will be needed. Outside of bringing in the STS crane and expanding the container yard, BP Batams strategic plan will have the company develop the next stages of the harbour, adding four quay container crane (QCC) suprastructure units, 20 head truck units, 10 rubber-tired gantry crane (RTGC) units, two reach stacker units and a variety of other support facilities.

Topics : Batam
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Linkedin Aditya Hadi (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Tue, April 18, 2023

President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo participated in the opening of the Hannover Messe alongside German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Sunday, marking the third time Indonesia has served as a partner country for the major industrial fair.

Prior to the exhibition, the government announced that Indonesian entities had signed memorandums of understanding (MoUs) worth Rp 30 trillion (US$2.04 billion) and had secured commitments from several major German chemical and automotive firms to invest in Indonesia's electric vehicle (EV) battery industry.

Investment Minister Bahlil Lahadalia said he had accompanied the President for meetings with Germanys BASF and Volkswagen and Frances Eramet.

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Linkedin Dio Suhenda (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Tue, April 18, 2023

With Idul Fitri less than a week away, the government has reported a spike in the number of Indonesians on the move, particularly using modes of public transportation, as the countrys biggest mudik (exodus) season yet is almost in full swing.

Transportation Ministry spokeswoman Adita Irawati said in a statement on Sunday that over 586,000 Indonesians had started to embark on their homebound journeys on Saturday, or seven days before Idul Fitri.

The figure was 20,000 more than Fridays tally of 565,000 people, and over 54,000 more than last years tally. The ministrys data was compiled across 111 bus terminals, 16 ferry ports, 51 airports, 110 seaports, 13 train operational regions (Daop), 42 toll gates and 20 arterial roads across the country.

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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Tue, April 18, 2023

The General Elections Commission (KPU) published on Tuesday a provisional voter list for the 2024 presidential and legislative elections, which covers more than 205 million eligible voters nationwide.

A plenary meeting of the KPU on Tuesday approved the voter list of 205,853,518 individuals who can cast their ballots in the country's 38 provinces and a number of voting stations overseas.

KPU chairman Hasyim Asy'ari said the list could still change as tabulators were still crunching numbers coming in from the regions.

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Linkedin Fikri Harish (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Tue, April 18, 2023

In a bid to improve the productivity of civil servants, President Joko Jokowi Widodo signed Presidential Regulation (Perpres) No. 21/2023 on Wednesday granting them greater working flexibility. Experts, however, have cautioned that the regulation could have the opposite effect, arguing that it is too soon for the government to implement flexible working arrangements for the civil service.

State civil apparatus [ASN] members can perform their duties with flexibility, both in terms of location and in time, Article 8 of the regulation states. Even if civil servants are to adopt this flexible working arrangement they will still have to work the required 37 hours and 30 minutes, or 32 hours and 30 minutes during Ramadan, per week as stipulated in the regulation.

In the past, regulations on shorter working hours during Ramadan had to be signed each year. While the latest regulation does not specify if overtime will be available for civil servants, hours spent working on top of the required time may count toward an employees performance.

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Linkedin AFP Denpasar, Bali  Tue, April 18, 2023

A Russian woman who posted a nude photo of herself in front of a sacred tree has been deported from Bali, an official said Monday, the latest incident involving indelicate tourist acts on the resort island.

The 40-year-old woman, identified as Luiza Kosykh, left Bali's Denpasar on a late Sunday flight to Moscow, Bali law and human rights agency official I Nengah Sukadana told AFP, just days after she was nabbed by immigration officials.

Kosykh was arrested on Wednesday after her nude photo in front of the 700-year-old banyan went viral, angering local Hindus who revere the tree as sacred.

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Linkedin News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Tue, April 18, 2023

Vice President Ma'ruf Amin has urged the Indonesian Military (TNI) and the National Police to step up security operations in Papua following the death of a soldier in an attack by armed rebels during a mission to free New Zealand pilot Philip Mehrtens.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the Office of the Vice President said that security authorities in Papua needed "to get tough" on separatist rebels while at the same time, instructing them to continue protecting civilians in the restive region.

"The Vice President maintains that this is the time to get tough in going after separatist rebels in a precise way so that it does not disrupt civilian activities," Ma'ruf's spokesperson Masduki Baidowi said.

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Linkedin AFP Jakarta  Tue, April 18, 2023

Security forces on Tuesday were searching for four soldiers who went missing last week after a deadly rebel ambush in Papua, Indonesian Military (TNI) chief said.

The missing troops were part of the search for Phillip Mark Mehrtens, a pilot with Susi Air, who was taken in February by armed separatists at Nduga airport in Papua.

They were on their way to the pilot's location in the hilly Nduga region on Saturday when rebels started shooting at them, TNI chief Admiral Yudo Margono said.

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Linkedin Editorial board (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Wed, April 19, 2023 02:47 7 0de7eba49861a560f8b2ec6fa5dd29d3 1 Editorial ASEAN,Myanmar,junta,five-point-consensus,Coup,oppression,democracy,human-rights Free

In a few days, ASEAN will have to once more take stock of its efforts to restore peace and democracy in Myanmar.

Two years ago on April 24, nine leaders of the Southeast Asian bloc met in Jakarta for an emergency meeting with Min Aung Hlaing, the leader of the Myanmar junta, who had seized power from the democratically elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi three months prior.

Behind closed doors, a set of demands was put together and seemingly pushed out by consensus, including an apparent acknowledgment from the new military ruler.

Fast-forward to today, that document, the Five Point Consensus (5PC), mostly remains a piece of paper.

The urgency of that regional powwow has also given way to a hushed busyness that serves only to punctuate the inaction. It is quite on-brand for ASEAN, some might say.

Others may point to ASEANs failure to act against the coup in Thailand in 2014 as the precedent for the current order of things. For far too long, ASEAN looked the other way from the violent upheaval in the name of noninterference.

Meanwhile, the military regimes repression of the people continues, and its paranoia and defiance of efforts to broker a ceasefire are ever more deeply concerning.

But it is never too late for a change of tack and ASEAN could make the most of the current turning of the tide.

The militarys seizure of power in February 2021 and the subsequent arrest of elected leaders, including Suu Kyi, may have resulted in a significant deterioration of human rights and democratic institutions.

The juntas actions may have resulted in the detention of thousands of people, including activists, journalists and members of civil society, and cost countless lives.

But the recent airstrikes targeting junta opponents certainly smack of desperation.

According to one estimate from the shadow National Unity Government (NUG), at least 30,000 junta troops have died in clashes with the peoples resistance forces, ethnic armed groups and other revolutionaries since the coup.

So while ASEAN operates silently with its hands mostly tied, Myanmars people power has grown considerably.

The Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM) continues to defy the systematic campaign of violence meted out by the military rulers against it and, as a result, it is attracting sympathizers even among the nations armed forces.

It is time we properly support the will of Myanmars people.

So while ASEAN should continue to push for a peaceful resolution to the crisis, its efforts must include meaningful engagement with all stakeholders apart from the junta.

We can be certain this is the right path, because we know Myanmars coupmakers do not care at all about ASEAN.

As such, efforts to promote dialogue and reconciliation must be backed by strong diplomatic and economic measures, including the suspension of Myanmars membership in ASEAN until democracy is restored.

It is imperative that ASEAN and the international community step up their efforts to address the situation in Myanmar and hold the junta accountable for its crimes.

The imposition of targeted sanctions against the military junta and its supporters, as well as the provision of humanitarian assistance to those affected by the crisis, are essential steps toward achieving these goals.

It is crucial that the people of Myanmar are not forgotten in the midst of this protracted crisis. They have been the primary victims of the juntas violence and repression, and their voices must be heard.

The international community must stand in solidarity with them and support their efforts to restore democracy and respect for human rights.

They deserve better, and it is the responsibility of all of us to ensure that their voices are heard and their rights are protected, which is the very reason for the formation of the ASEAN community.
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Linkedin Dio Suhenda (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Tue, April 18 2023

A recent uptick in the countrys daily COVID-19 caseload and the discovery of more people infected with the new Arcturus strain are no cause for concern just yet, the Health Ministry has said, but it also urged the public to take health precautions ahead of the Idul Fitri holiday.

Speaking to reporters on Monday, ministerial spokesman Mohammad Syahril said authorities had found five new cases linked to Arcturus (XBB.1.16), a subvariant of Omicron. This brought the nationwide tally to seven following the two cases that were announced last week, but were detected in late March.

Syahril said one of the first two Arcturus cases had traveled to India, while the other was infected in Indonesia. Both cases were detected in Jakarta and had since tested negative.

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PHNOM PENH, April 18 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia has welcomed two newborn Irrawaddy dolphins so far this year, the country's Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) said in a news release on Tuesday.

The second dolphin calf was spotted on April 15 while swimming with a group of adult dolphins, as the first one was recorded on March 1. Both calves were found at the Kampi dolphin pool in northeastern Kratie province.

According to the news release, six dolphin calves were registered last year, and the same number was also reported in 2021.

World Wildlife Fund (WWF) in Cambodia congratulated the joint efforts of the MAFF's Fisheries Administration and WWF for this important second new record of the Mekong Irrawaddy dolphin calf in 2023.

"The research team of the Fisheries Administration and WWF are conducting photo identification surveys along the Mekong habitats in Kratie and Stung Treng provinces in order to monitor the dolphins' situation and estimate their population number for 2023," the WWF said in a news release.

The Irrawaddy dolphins have been listed as critically endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species since 2004.

The Fisheries Administration estimated that there are approximately 90 Irrawaddy dolphin population in the Cambodian portion of the Mekong River in Kratie and Stung Treng provinces.

In February, Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen issued a sub-decree on the creation of the dolphin conservation and protection zones covering a 120-km-long stretch of the Mekong River in the two provinces.

"Fishing must be prohibited from the dolphin conservation and protection zones," the sub-decree said. 
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Linkedin Yvette Tanamal and Nur Janti (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta  Tue, April 18 2023

Indonesian Military (TNI) commander Adm. Yudo Margono arrived in Papua on Monday, senior military officers have said, following the first confirmed TNI death in a sensitive operation to rescue a foreigner taken hostage by armed rebels.

Indonesian security and military personnel have been deployed to the countrys easternmost region since rebels from the West Papua Liberation Army (TPNPB) took New Zealand pilot Phillip Mehrtens hostage after a routine flight to Papuas Nduga regency some two months ago.

A string of attacks on aircraft has also occurred in the restive region since the Feb. 7 abduction, the latest involving a civilian airplane shot upon landing in Puncak regency, Central Papua, on Friday morning.

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Linkedin AFP Paris, France  Tue, April 18, 2023 11:35 8 0de7eba49861a560f8b2ec6fa5d1e574 2 Europe air-crash,Airbus,Air-France,Court,France,acquittal,Rio-de-Janeiro Free

A French court acquitted Air France and plane manufacturer Airbus Monday over the 2009 crash of a flight from Rio de Janeiro to Paris, a ruling victims' families said left them "disgusted".

The court in Paris found the companies had committed various errors leading up to the worst aviation disaster in Air France's history -- which left all 228 people on board flight AF447 dead -- but that their mistakes could not be proven to be the cause.

While the ruling was expected after prosecutors recommended against seeking a conviction, it was still a huge blow for victims' relatives, who have waged a 14-year campaign for justice.

As hearings in the eight-week trial wrapped up in December, prosecutors said it was "impossible" to convict the two aviation giants, which were charged with involuntary manslaughter but denied the charges.

If convicted, the two companies would have risked a fine of 225,000 euros ($250,000) as well as significant reputational damage.

As the verdict was read out, relatives of the victims present in court stood up, appearing stunned, then sat down again.

Ophelie Toulliou, who lost her brother in the accident, said she was dazed by the "injustice" of the verdict.

"It makes no sense to me," she said.

Daniele Lamy, president of the association which represents the victims, said she and others were "disgusted".

"We expected an impartial judgement, this was not the case," she said. "All that remains of these 14 years of waiting is despair, dismay and anger."

In Brazil, victims' families also voiced outrage.

"The French justice system isn't serious, it isn't impartial," Nelson Marinho, president of the Brazilian victims' association, told newspaper O Globo.

"This tragedy devastated so many families. I can't describe what I'm feeling today," said Marinho, who lost his son in the crash.

- 'Imprudence' -

The hearings centred on the role of defective "Pitot tubes", which are used to measure flight speed.

The court heard how a malfunction with the tubes, which became blocked with ice crystals during a mid-Atlantic storm, caused alarms to sound in the cockpit of the Airbus A330 and the autopilot system to switch off.

Technical experts highlighted how, after the instrument failure, the pilots put the plane into a climb that caused the aircraft to stall, then crash into the ocean.

Air France and Airbus blamed pilot error as the main cause.

But lawyers for the families argued both companies were aware of the Pitot tube problem before the crash, and that the pilots were not trained to deal with such a high-altitude emergency.

The court said Airbus committed "four acts of imprudence or negligence", including not replacing certain models of the Pitot tubes that seemed to freeze more often on its A330-A340 fleet, and "withholding information" from flight operators.

It said Air France had committed two "acts of imprudence" in the way it disseminated an information note on the faulty tubes to its pilots.

But there was not a strong enough causal link between these failings and the accident to show an offence had been committed, it found.

'Legally justified'

Prosecutors initially dropped charges against the companies in 2019, a decision that also infuriated victims' families.

A Paris appeals court overturned this decision in 2021 and ordered the trial to go ahead.

Throughout the trial, representatives of Airbus and Air France maintained the companies were not guilty of criminal wrongdoing.

Their lawyers demanded acquittal, describing it as a "difficult decision from a human point of view, but technically and legally justified".

Air France "takes note of the judgement", the company said in a statement after the verdict.

"The company will always remember the victims of this terrible accident and expresses its deepest sympathy to all of their loved ones."

Airbus said the decision was "consistent" with the initial dismissal in 2019.

The group expressed its "compassion" to victims' relatives.

Flight AF447 was carrying people of 33 different nationalities, including 72 French and 58 Brazilians.

It took nearly two years to recover the "black box" flight recorders, which were found almost 4,000 metres (13,000 feet) below sea level.
Avante Logixx Inc. (CVE:XX  Get Rating) Director Daniel Argiros acquired 100,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, April 14th. The shares were acquired at an average cost of C$1.00 per share, with a total value of C$99,870.00.

Avante Logixx Price Performance

XX stock traded up C$0.01 during mid-day trading on Monday, hitting C$0.96. 3,790 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 32,148. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 4.19, a current ratio of 2.80 and a quick ratio of 2.77. The business has a fifty day moving average price of C$0.95 and a 200 day moving average price of C$0.83. Avante Logixx Inc. has a 12 month low of C$0.65 and a 12 month high of C$1.02. The stock has a market capitalization of C$25.43 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -5.00 and a beta of 1.54.

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Avante Logixx (CVE:XX  Get Rating) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Monday, February 27th. The company reported C($0.01) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. Avante Logixx had a negative return on equity of 29.43% and a negative net margin of 2.82%. The firm had revenue of C$5.09 million for the quarter. On average, sell-side analysts anticipate that Avante Logixx Inc. will post 0.0056051 EPS for the current year.

About Avante Logixx

Avante Logixx Inc, through its subsidiaries, provides security services to residential clients in Canada. The company offers protective services, which includes guarding, patrol and rapid response, intelligent perimeter protection, secure transport, and international security travel advisory and transport; and electronic security services comprise home security services including system design, access control, and video and systems installation and service.

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China Shenhua Energy Company Limited (OTCMKTS:CSUAY  Get Rating) was the recipient of a significant drop in short interest in the month of March. As of March 31st, there was short interest totalling 25,300 shares, a drop of 21.2% from the March 15th total of 32,100 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 36,700 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.7 days.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Separately, JPMorgan Chase & Co. lowered shares of China Shenhua Energy from an overweight rating to an underweight rating in a research report on Tuesday, March 28th.

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China Shenhua Energy Trading Up 3.1 %

Shares of China Shenhua Energy stock traded up $0.40 on Monday, reaching $12.94. The stock had a trading volume of 9,468 shares, compared to its average volume of 17,215. China Shenhua Energy has a 1 year low of $10.45 and a 1 year high of $13.98. The company has a current ratio of 2.40, a quick ratio of 2.27 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.10. The businesss 50 day moving average is $12.35 and its two-hundred day moving average is $11.99.

About China Shenhua Energy

China Shenhua Energy Company Limited and its subsidiaries engage in the production and sales of coal and power; railway, port, and shipping transportation; and coal-to-olefins businesses in the People's Republic of China and internationally. It operates through six segments: Coal, Power, Railway, Port, Shipping, and Coal Chemical.

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Old Mutual (OTCMKTS:ODMUF  Get Rating) and Great-West Lifeco (OTCMKTS:GWLIF  Get Rating) are both finance companies, but which is the better investment? We will compare the two businesses based on the strength of their profitability, earnings, institutional ownership, dividends, analyst recommendations, valuation and risk.

Dividends

Old Mutual pays an annual dividend of $0.08 per share and has a dividend yield of 14.7%. Great-West Lifeco pays an annual dividend of $1.23 per share and has a dividend yield of 4.4%. Old Mutual pays out 76.2% of its earnings in the form of a dividend, suggesting it may not have sufficient earnings to cover its dividend payment in the future. Great-West Lifeco pays out 47.2% of its earnings in the form of a dividend.

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Profitability

This table compares Old Mutual and Great-West Lifecos net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Old Mutual N/A N/A N/A Great-West Lifeco N/A N/A N/A

Earnings and Valuation

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Old Mutual N/A N/A N/A $0.11 5.17 Great-West Lifeco N/A N/A N/A $2.60 10.67

This table compares Old Mutual and Great-West Lifecos revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Old Mutual is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Great-West Lifeco, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Insider and Institutional Ownership

28.5% of Old Mutual shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 11.8% of Great-West Lifeco shares are held by institutional investors. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, large money managers and endowments believe a company is poised for long-term growth.

Analyst Ratings

This is a summary of current recommendations and price targets for Old Mutual and Great-West Lifeco, as reported by MarketBeat.com.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Old Mutual 0 2 0 0 2.00 Great-West Lifeco 0 1 1 0 2.50

Great-West Lifeco has a consensus target price of $35.78, indicating a potential upside of 28.74%. Given Great-West Lifecos stronger consensus rating and higher possible upside, analysts clearly believe Great-West Lifeco is more favorable than Old Mutual.

Summary

Great-West Lifeco beats Old Mutual on 6 of the 8 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Old Mutual

(Get Rating)

Old Mutual Limited, through its subsidiaries, provides financial services primarily in South Africa and rest of Africa. The company operates through Mass and Foundation Cluster, Personal Finance and Wealth Management, Old Mutual Investments, Old Mutual Corporate, Old Mutual Insure, and Rest of Africa segments. It offers risk products, including group risk and funeral covers; long-term savings; lending products comprising micro-lending; and transactional products. It also provides financial advice, investment, and income products, as well as asset management services. In addition, the company offers investments, annuities, and consulting services to employee-sponsored retirement and benefit funds; and health, property, and casualty insurance products. It serves low-income and lower-middle income markets; high income and high net worth individuals; and employee-sponsored retirement and benefit funds. The company was founded in 1845 and is based in Cape Town, South Africa.

About Great-West Lifeco

(Get Rating)

Great-West Lifeco, Inc. is a financial services holding company, which engages in the provision of life insurance, health insurance, retirement services, investment management and reinsurance services. It operates through the following segments: Canada, United States, Europe, and Lifeco Corporate. The Canada segment provides individual & group life insurance through the Great-West Life, London Life and Canada Life. The United States segment offers asset management and financial services through the Great-West Financial, Putnam and insurance businesses in the branches of Great-West Life and Canada Life located in the U.S. The Europe segment consists of insurance, annuities and reinsurance business units. The Lifeco Corporate segment includes operating results for activities of Lifeco that are not associated with the major business units of the firm. The company was founded on November 8, 1979 and is headquartered in Winnipeg, Canada.

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Disciplined Investments LLC decreased its position in Waste Management, Inc. (NYSE:WM  Get Rating) by 47.6% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 182 shares of the business services providers stock after selling 165 shares during the period. Disciplined Investments LLCs holdings in Waste Management were worth $29,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Several other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. McClarren Financial Advisors Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Waste Management during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $25,000. Twin Lakes Capital Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of Waste Management during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $31,000. TD Capital Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of Waste Management during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $33,000. Tortoise Investment Management LLC raised its stake in shares of Waste Management by 232.1% during the 3rd quarter. Tortoise Investment Management LLC now owns 269 shares of the business services providers stock worth $43,000 after purchasing an additional 188 shares in the last quarter. Finally, HBC Financial Services PLLC bought a new stake in shares of Waste Management during the 4th quarter worth approximately $47,000. Institutional investors own 78.48% of the companys stock.

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Waste Management Stock Performance

WM opened at $165.40 on Tuesday. The firm has a market cap of $67.28 billion, a P/E ratio of 30.69, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.53 and a beta of 0.73. Waste Management, Inc. has a 52-week low of $138.89 and a 52-week high of $175.98. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.12, a quick ratio of 0.77 and a current ratio of 0.81. The businesss fifty day moving average is $155.05 and its 200-day moving average is $157.64.

Waste Management Increases Dividend

Waste Management ( NYSE:WM Get Rating ) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, February 1st. The business services provider reported $1.30 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.39 by ($0.09). The company had revenue of $4.94 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.97 billion. Waste Management had a return on equity of 32.91% and a net margin of 11.36%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 5.5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the company posted $1.26 earnings per share. Sell-side analysts expect that Waste Management, Inc. will post 6 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 24th. Stockholders of record on Friday, March 10th were issued a dividend of $0.70 per share. This is a positive change from Waste Managements previous quarterly dividend of $0.65. This represents a $2.80 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.69%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, March 9th. Waste Managements dividend payout ratio is 51.95%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of research analysts recently weighed in on the company. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft decreased their target price on Waste Management from $157.00 to $151.00 and set a hold rating on the stock in a report on Monday, February 6th. Morgan Stanley boosted their target price on Waste Management from $179.00 to $181.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a report on Thursday, April 6th. UBS Group lowered Waste Management from a buy rating to a neutral rating and decreased their target price for the stock from $190.00 to $165.00 in a report on Tuesday, January 10th. Truist Financial initiated coverage on Waste Management in a report on Monday. They set a buy rating and a $190.00 target price on the stock. Finally, TD Cowen initiated coverage on Waste Management in a report on Thursday, March 30th. They issued an outperform rating and a $200.00 price objective on the stock. Six equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Waste Management currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $174.67.

Insider Transactions at Waste Management

In other news, CAO Leslie K. Nagy sold 800 shares of the stock in a transaction on Friday, February 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of $151.11, for a total transaction of $120,888.00. Following the sale, the chief accounting officer now directly owns 5,210 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $787,283.10. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. In related news, CFO Devina A. Rankin sold 6,800 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Friday, February 17th. The stock was sold at an average price of $155.00, for a total transaction of $1,054,000.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief financial officer now directly owns 57,517 shares in the company, valued at approximately $8,915,135. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through this link. Also, CAO Leslie K. Nagy sold 800 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Friday, February 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of $151.11, for a total value of $120,888.00. Following the sale, the chief accounting officer now owns 5,210 shares of the companys stock, valued at $787,283.10. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last three months, insiders have sold 30,743 shares of company stock valued at $4,762,320. 0.27% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

Waste Management Profile

(Get Rating)

Waste Management, Inc is a holding company, which engages in the provision of waste management environmental services. It operates through the following segments: East Tier, West Tier, and Other. The East Tier segment consists of Eastern U.S., the Great Lakes Region, and Canada. The West Tier segment includes the upper Midwest region and British Columbia, Canada.

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Want to see what other hedge funds are holding WM? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Waste Management, Inc. (NYSE:WM  Get Rating).

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Enel Chile S.A. (NYSE:ENIC  Get Rating) hit a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Tuesday . The company traded as high as $2.83 and last traded at $2.83, with a volume of 1128237 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at $2.70.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Separately, StockNews.com assumed coverage on Enel Chile in a research note on Friday, March 17th. They issued a buy rating on the stock.

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Enel Chile Stock Up 5.2 %

The firm has a market cap of $3.93 billion, a P/E ratio of 2.73 and a beta of 1.05. The company has a fifty day simple moving average of $2.37 and a 200-day simple moving average of $2.09.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Enel Chile

About Enel Chile

Hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the company. Millennium Management LLC raised its stake in Enel Chile by 147.2% during the 4th quarter. Millennium Management LLC now owns 1,496,126 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $3,366,000 after purchasing an additional 890,978 shares during the period. Lesa Sroufe & Co bought a new stake in shares of Enel Chile during the third quarter valued at approximately $969,000. BlackRock Inc. boosted its position in shares of Enel Chile by 38.4% during the third quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 1,781,819 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $2,459,000 after acquiring an additional 494,605 shares during the last quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC grew its stake in Enel Chile by 17.4% during the second quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC now owns 2,795,465 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $3,103,000 after acquiring an additional 415,298 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Marshall Wace LLP lifted its stake in Enel Chile by 220.4% in the 4th quarter. Marshall Wace LLP now owns 530,560 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $1,194,000 after purchasing an additional 364,982 shares in the last quarter. 2.49% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

(Get Rating)

Enel Chile SA engages in the development, operation, generation, and distribution of electricity. It operates through following segments: Generation, Transmission, and Distribution. The Generation segment supplies electricity to end customers using lines and substations that belong to transmission and distribution companies.

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Freehold Royalties (TSE:FRU  Get Rating) had its price objective reduced by CIBC from C$19.00 to C$18.00 in a research report sent to investors on Friday, BayStreet.CA reports.

A number of other research analysts also recently issued reports on FRU. Raymond James reduced their price objective on Freehold Royalties from C$21.00 to C$20.00 in a research note on Tuesday, April 11th. BMO Capital Markets cut their target price on Freehold Royalties from C$18.00 to C$17.00 in a research note on Monday, March 27th. Finally, Canaccord Genuity Group lowered their price target on Freehold Royalties from C$21.00 to C$20.75 in a report on Wednesday, March 29th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating and seven have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of C$19.93.

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Freehold Royalties Trading Down 0.7 %

TSE FRU opened at C$15.27 on Friday. The company has a market cap of C$2.30 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 10.99, a P/E/G ratio of -0.92 and a beta of 2.10. Freehold Royalties has a 52 week low of C$11.66 and a 52 week high of C$17.78. The business has a 50 day moving average price of C$15.11 and a 200-day moving average price of C$15.75. The company has a quick ratio of 1.50, a current ratio of 1.56 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 16.48.

Freehold Royalties Announces Dividend

Freehold Royalties Company Profile

The business also recently disclosed a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, May 15th. Shareholders of record on Monday, May 15th will be paid a dividend of $0.09 per share. This represents a $1.08 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 7.07%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, April 27th. Freehold Royaltiess payout ratio is 77.70%.

(Get Rating)

Freehold Royalties Ltd., an oil and gas royalty company, owns working interests in oil, natural gas, natural gas liquids, and potash properties in Western Canada and the United States. The company holds approximately 6.2 million gross acres of land in Canada and 0.8 million gross drilling unit acres in the United States.

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Fukuoka Financial Group, Inc. (OTC:FKKFF  Get Rating)s share price reached a new 52-week high during trading on Monday . The stock traded as high as $17.36 and last traded at $17.36, with a volume of 0 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at $17.36.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Separately, Daiwa Capital Markets cut shares of Fukuoka Financial Group from an outperform rating to a neutral rating in a report on Wednesday, April 5th.

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Fukuoka Financial Group Price Performance

The firm has a market cap of $14.92 billion, a P/E ratio of -32.14 and a beta of 0.03. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $17.36 and a 200 day moving average of $17.36.

About Fukuoka Financial Group

Fukuoka Financial Group, Inc, through its subsidiaries, provides various banking services to individual and corporate customers. The company accepts various deposits, such as current deposits, ordinary and other demand deposits, time deposits, and negotiable certificates of deposit, as well as provides loan products.

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JAKARTA, April 18 (Xinhua) -- The Indonesian military has intensified military operation in some areas in the eastern Highland Papua province to fight armed separatist groups, Commander Admiral Yudo Margono said on Tuesday.

"We upgrade the operation from soft approach to battle standby following the attack by a separatist group on April 15," Margono said.

On Saturday, an armed criminal group attacked military officers in a remote area of Mugi-Mam in Nduga regency, Highland Papua province, killing one soldier and injuring four others.

The attack occurred when the soldiers were searching for Susi Air pilot Phillip Mehrtens who had been kidnapped by the group in February.

"So far, we also apply soft approach in terms of social communication. However, when we encounter an attack, we have to be in the standby mode for a battle," Margono said. 
JPMorgan Chase & Co. downgraded shares of Infosys (NYSE:INFY  Get Rating) from a neutral rating to an underweight rating in a research note released on Friday morning, MarketBeat reports.

A number of other brokerages have also commented on INFY. Wedbush cut their price objective on shares of Infosys from $25.00 to $22.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, March 13th. StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of Infosys in a research report on Thursday, March 16th. They issued a hold rating on the stock. Citigroup downgraded shares of Infosys from a buy rating to a neutral rating in a report on Thursday, April 13th. Credit Suisse Group downgraded shares of Infosys from an outperform rating to a neutral rating in a report on Friday. Finally, Nomura downgraded shares of Infosys from a buy rating to a neutral rating in a report on Thursday, April 13th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, ten have assigned a hold rating and three have issued a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $19.33.

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Infosys Stock Performance

Shares of INFY opened at $15.19 on Friday. The firms 50 day moving average price is $17.78 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $18.29. The firm has a market cap of $63.59 billion, a P/E ratio of 21.39, a PEG ratio of 1.93 and a beta of 1.00. Infosys has a twelve month low of $15.05 and a twelve month high of $20.93.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Infosys

Infosys ( NYSE:INFY Get Rating ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, April 13th. The technology company reported $0.18 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.19 by ($0.01). The business had revenue of $4.55 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $4.73 billion. Infosys had a return on equity of 31.61% and a net margin of 16.37%. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $0.18 EPS. On average, sell-side analysts anticipate that Infosys will post 0.79 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Naples Global Advisors LLC increased its holdings in shares of Infosys by 4.2% in the first quarter. Naples Global Advisors LLC now owns 324,971 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $5,667,000 after purchasing an additional 13,000 shares during the last quarter. Congress Wealth Management LLC DE increased its holdings in shares of Infosys by 5.0% in the first quarter. Congress Wealth Management LLC DE now owns 31,439 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $548,000 after purchasing an additional 1,484 shares during the last quarter. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Infosys by 15.3% in the first quarter. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. now owns 19,218 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $335,000 after purchasing an additional 2,550 shares during the last quarter. Raymond James & Associates increased its holdings in shares of Infosys by 3.4% in the first quarter. Raymond James & Associates now owns 225,260 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $3,929,000 after purchasing an additional 7,403 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Carolina Wealth Advisors LLC increased its holdings in shares of Infosys by 1.2% in the first quarter. Carolina Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 218,956 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $3,819,000 after purchasing an additional 2,647 shares during the last quarter. 12.68% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Infosys Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Infosys Ltd. is a digital services and consulting company, which engages in the provision of end-to-end business solutions. It operates through the following segments: Financial Services, Retail, Communication, Energy, Utilities, Resources, and Services, Manufacturing, Hi-Tech, Life Sciences, and All Other.

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Legacy Advisors LLC increased its holdings in shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb (NYSE:BMY  Get Rating) by 3.6% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 7,846 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after buying an additional 275 shares during the period. Legacy Advisors LLCs holdings in Bristol-Myers Squibb were worth $565,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently modified their holdings of BMY. Boston Financial Mangement LLC lifted its position in shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb by 0.9% during the third quarter. Boston Financial Mangement LLC now owns 15,468 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $1,100,000 after purchasing an additional 133 shares during the last quarter. Accredited Investors Inc. raised its stake in Bristol-Myers Squibb by 0.9% during the third quarter. Accredited Investors Inc. now owns 15,461 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $1,099,000 after acquiring an additional 134 shares during the period. Lincoln National Corp raised its stake in Bristol-Myers Squibb by 0.4% during the third quarter. Lincoln National Corp now owns 36,282 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $2,579,000 after acquiring an additional 140 shares during the period. CWA Asset Management Group LLC raised its stake in Bristol-Myers Squibb by 1.4% during the third quarter. CWA Asset Management Group LLC now owns 10,053 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $715,000 after acquiring an additional 140 shares during the period. Finally, Elmwood Wealth Management Inc. increased its stake in shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb by 1.0% in the third quarter. Elmwood Wealth Management Inc. now owns 13,686 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $973,000 after purchasing an additional 140 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 75.51% of the companys stock.

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Bristol-Myers Squibb Price Performance

Shares of BMY opened at $70.60 on Tuesday. The firm has a market capitalization of $148.49 billion, a PE ratio of 23.93, a PEG ratio of 1.55 and a beta of 0.45. The companys 50-day moving average is $69.55 and its 200-day moving average is $72.78. Bristol-Myers Squibb has a fifty-two week low of $65.28 and a fifty-two week high of $81.43. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.13, a current ratio of 1.25 and a quick ratio of 1.14.

Bristol-Myers Squibb Announces Dividend

Bristol-Myers Squibb ( NYSE:BMY Get Rating ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, February 2nd. The biopharmaceutical company reported $1.82 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.71 by $0.11. Bristol-Myers Squibb had a net margin of 13.71% and a return on equity of 51.60%. The business had revenue of $11.41 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $11.20 billion. During the same period last year, the firm earned $1.83 earnings per share. Bristol-Myers Squibbs revenue for the quarter was down 4.8% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities analysts forecast that Bristol-Myers Squibb will post 7.98 EPS for the current year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, May 1st. Stockholders of record on Monday, April 10th will be paid a $0.57 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, April 6th. This represents a $2.28 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.23%. Bristol-Myers Squibbs payout ratio is currently 77.29%.

Insider Activity

In related news, CEO Giovanni Caforio sold 240,000 shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, February 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of $74.65, for a total transaction of $17,916,000.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now directly owns 236,104 shares in the company, valued at approximately $17,625,163.60. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link. In related news, EVP Ann Powell sold 11,183 shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, February 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of $74.69, for a total transaction of $835,258.27. Following the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 23,043 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,721,081.67. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link. Also, CEO Giovanni Caforio sold 240,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, February 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of $74.65, for a total transaction of $17,916,000.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 236,104 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $17,625,163.60. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 0.08% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of research analysts recently commented on BMY shares. Morgan Stanley raised their price objective on shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb from $60.00 to $62.00 and gave the company an underweight rating in a research note on Friday, February 3rd. Wells Fargo & Company raised their price objective on shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb from $70.00 to $78.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Tuesday, January 3rd. Cantor Fitzgerald started coverage on shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb in a report on Tuesday, January 17th. They set an overweight rating and a $95.00 target price for the company. Jefferies Financial Group started coverage on shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb in a report on Monday, March 6th. They set a hold rating and a $62.00 target price for the company. Finally, StockNews.com started coverage on shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb in a report on Thursday, March 16th. They set a strong-buy rating for the company. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have given a hold rating, seven have issued a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $79.69.

Bristol-Myers Squibb Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Bristol Myers Squibb Co engages in the discovery, development, licensing, manufacture, marketing, distribution, and sale of biopharmaceutical products. It offers chemically-synthesized drugs or small molecules and products produced from biological processes called biologics. The company was founded in August 1933 and is headquartered in New York, NY.

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Want to see what other hedge funds are holding BMY? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Bristol-Myers Squibb (NYSE:BMY  Get Rating).

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The Goldman Sachs Group lowered shares of Motor Oil (Hellas) Corinth Refineries (OTCMKTS:MOHCY  Get Rating) from a buy rating to a neutral rating in a report released on Friday morning, The Fly reports.

Motor Oil (Hellas) Corinth Refineries Price Performance

OTCMKTS:MOHCY opened at $12.24 on Friday. The stocks fifty day moving average price is $11.27 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $9.10. Motor Oil has a 52-week low of $8.20 and a 52-week high of $12.24.

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About Motor Oil (Hellas) Corinth Refineries

(Get Rating)

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Motor Oil (Hellas) Corinth Refineries SA engages in the oil refinery and distribution of petroleum products. It operates through the following segments: Refinerys Activities, Trading/Sales to Gas Stations, and Services. The company was founded by Vardis Ioanni Vardinoyannis and Georgios Paraschos Aleksandridis on May 7, 1970 and is headquartered in Marousi, Greece.

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StockNews.com cut shares of Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras S.A.  Eletrobras (NYSE:EBR  Get Rating) from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research report sent to investors on Friday morning.

Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras S.A.  Eletrobras Price Performance

Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras S.A.  Eletrobras stock opened at $6.84 on Friday. Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras S.A.  Eletrobras has a fifty-two week low of $5.67 and a fifty-two week high of $10.39. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.47, a current ratio of 1.88 and a quick ratio of 1.83. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $6.57 and a 200-day simple moving average of $7.75.

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Institutional Trading of Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras S.A.  Eletrobras

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the company. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. raised its stake in Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras S.A.  Eletrobras by 13.9% during the 1st quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 13,966 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $110,000 after acquiring an additional 1,699 shares during the last quarter. Advisor Group Holdings Inc. raised its stake in Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras S.A.  Eletrobras by 49.0% during the 1st quarter. Advisor Group Holdings Inc. now owns 4,898 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $39,000 after acquiring an additional 1,611 shares during the last quarter. American Century Companies Inc. raised its stake in Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras S.A.  Eletrobras by 127.8% during the 1st quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 58,698 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $464,000 after acquiring an additional 32,935 shares during the last quarter. Bank of Montreal Can raised its stake in Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras S.A.  Eletrobras by 27.7% during the 1st quarter. Bank of Montreal Can now owns 70,541 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $541,000 after acquiring an additional 15,296 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Panagora Asset Management Inc. purchased a new stake in Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras S.A.  Eletrobras during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $84,000. 2.37% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

About Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras S.A.  Eletrobras

Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras SA engages in the production and dissemination of electricity. It operates through the Generation and Transmission segments. The Generation segment refers to the electric power generation including hydroelectric, thermal, and nuclear power plants. The Transmission segment focuses on the transmission of electric power in Brazil.

Further Reading

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Tatton Asset Management plc (LON:TAM  Get Rating)s stock price was up 0.2% on Monday . The stock traded as high as GBX 454 ($5.62) and last traded at GBX 450 ($5.57). Approximately 9,720 shares changed hands during trading, a decline of 84% from the average daily volume of 61,238 shares. The stock had previously closed at GBX 449 ($5.56).

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Separately, Royal Bank of Canada restated an outperform rating and set a GBX 550 ($6.81) target price on shares of Tatton Asset Management in a report on Monday, March 27th.

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Tatton Asset Management Trading Up 0.2 %

The firm has a market capitalization of 270.23 million, a PE ratio of 2,647.06 and a beta of 1.14. The company has a quick ratio of 3.50, a current ratio of 4.01 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.36. The businesss fifty day moving average price is GBX 455.94 and its 200 day moving average price is GBX 431.74.

About Tatton Asset Management

Tatton Asset Management plc provides fund management, compliance consultancy, and technical support services to independent financial advisors in the United Kingdom. The company operates through two segments, Tatton and Paradigm. It also offers mortgage adviser support, and mortgage and insurance product distribution services.

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Tesco (OTCMKTS:TSCDY  Get Rating) had its target price increased by Barclays from GBX 310 ($3.84) to GBX 320 ($3.96) in a research report sent to investors on Friday morning, The Fly reports.

A number of other research analysts also recently commented on TSCDY. Jefferies Financial Group upgraded Tesco from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Monday, March 6th. Morgan Stanley raised Tesco from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, March 29th.

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Tesco Stock Performance

Shares of OTCMKTS TSCDY opened at $10.05 on Friday. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $9.29 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $8.50. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.48, a quick ratio of 0.63 and a current ratio of 0.78. Tesco has a one year low of $6.54 and a one year high of $10.65.

Tesco Company Profile

Tesco Plc engages in the retailing and retail banking. It operates through the following segments: UK and ROI, Central Europe, Asia, and Tesco Bank. The UK and ROI segment caters to the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland. The Central Europe segment covers the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, and Slovakia.

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Altfest L J & Co. Inc. increased its stake in shares of The Southern Company (NYSE:SO  Get Rating) by 9.0% in the 4th quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The firm owned 4,960 shares of the utilities providers stock after purchasing an additional 408 shares during the period. Altfest L J & Co. Inc.s holdings in Southern were worth $354,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Several other hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of SO. Burns J W & Co. Inc. NY lifted its stake in Southern by 0.7% in the 4th quarter. Burns J W & Co. Inc. NY now owns 21,982 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $1,570,000 after acquiring an additional 145 shares in the last quarter. Farmers & Merchants Investments Inc. lifted its stake in Southern by 0.6% in the 4th quarter. Farmers & Merchants Investments Inc. now owns 23,652 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $1,689,000 after acquiring an additional 150 shares in the last quarter. Murphy Middleton Hinkle & Parker Inc. lifted its stake in Southern by 0.4% in the 4th quarter. Murphy Middleton Hinkle & Parker Inc. now owns 38,605 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $2,757,000 after acquiring an additional 151 shares in the last quarter. Burleson & Company LLC lifted its stake in Southern by 6.9% in the 4th quarter. Burleson & Company LLC now owns 2,373 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $169,000 after acquiring an additional 153 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Gleason Group Inc. lifted its stake in Southern by 1.0% in the 4th quarter. Gleason Group Inc. now owns 15,606 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $1,114,000 after acquiring an additional 156 shares in the last quarter. 61.78% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Southern Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE SO opened at $72.34 on Tuesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.47, a quick ratio of 0.52 and a current ratio of 0.66. The firm has a market cap of $78.77 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 22.05, a P/E/G ratio of 4.99 and a beta of 0.51. The businesss 50-day simple moving average is $67.35 and its 200-day simple moving average is $67.51. The Southern Company has a 52 week low of $58.85 and a 52 week high of $80.57.

Southern Increases Dividend

Southern ( NYSE:SO Get Rating ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, February 16th. The utilities provider reported $0.26 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.24 by $0.02. The business had revenue of $7.05 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.83 billion. Southern had a return on equity of 11.73% and a net margin of 12.40%. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 22.2% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $0.36 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts expect that The Southern Company will post 3.61 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, June 6th. Shareholders of record on Monday, May 15th will be issued a $0.70 dividend. This represents a $2.80 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 3.87%. This is a positive change from Southerns previous quarterly dividend of $0.68. Southerns dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 82.93%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several equities research analysts recently issued reports on SO shares. Royal Bank of Canada reduced their price objective on Southern from $79.00 to $78.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, March 2nd. Mizuho reduced their price objective on Southern from $73.00 to $72.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, January 12th. Wells Fargo & Company cut their price target on Southern from $73.00 to $71.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research note on Friday, February 17th. Morgan Stanley cut their price target on Southern from $61.00 to $57.00 and set an underweight rating for the company in a research note on Tuesday, March 21st. Finally, Credit Suisse Group raised their price target on Southern from $60.00 to $70.00 and gave the stock an underperform rating in a research note on Wednesday, January 18th. Six investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, three have given a hold rating and seven have assigned a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $71.64.

Insider Buying and Selling at Southern

In other Southern news, CEO Stephen E. Kuczynski sold 5,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, April 10th. The stock was sold at an average price of $71.89, for a total value of $359,450.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 146,284 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $10,516,356.76. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. In other news, EVP Christopher Cummiskey sold 1,282 shares of Southern stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, February 16th. The stock was sold at an average price of $66.60, for a total transaction of $85,381.20. Following the sale, the executive vice president now owns 27,512 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,832,299.20. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Also, CEO Stephen E. Kuczynski sold 5,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, April 10th. The stock was sold at an average price of $71.89, for a total value of $359,450.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 146,284 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $10,516,356.76. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold 7,134 shares of company stock valued at $502,179 in the last 90 days. 0.37% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Southern Company Profile

(Get Rating)

The Southern Co is a holding company, which engages in the generation and sale of electricity. It operates through the following segments: Traditional Electric Operating Companies, Southern Power and Southern Company Gas. The Traditional Electric Operating Companies segment refers to vertically integrated utilities that own generation, transmission and distribution facilities, and supplies electric services in the states of Alabama, Georgia, Florida, and Mississippi.

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Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi speaks during a press conference at the Group of Seven (G7) Foreign Ministers' Meeting in the resort town of Karuizawa in central Japan, April 18, 2023. (Eugene Hoshiko/AP/Pool via Xinhua)

KARUIZAWA, Japan, April 18 (Xinhua) -- Foreign ministers from the Group of Seven (G7) nations on Tuesday vowed to address global challenges, including climate change, pollution, loss of biodiversity, health, and food and energy security, through collective action.

In a communique released after their three-day meeting in the resort town of Karuizawa in central Japan, the top diplomats called on all partners to join in addressing these pressing global challenges and to work together to build a better, more prosperous, and more secure future.

The ministers are also committed to promoting free and fair trade, stating that it is key to resilient and sustainable development for all, particularly the most vulnerable.

"We recognize that free and equitable public access to scientific knowledge is integral to solving global challenges," added the statement.

Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi and his G7 counterparts arrived in Karuizawa on Sunday afternoon for the foreign ministerial meeting, in advance of a G7 summit to be held in Hiroshima in May. 
There was a Punch Newspapers' breaking news earlier on 17 April 2023, reporting that _*"APC Binani declared winner of Adamawa Governorship Election".*_ According to the Punch, _"The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Sunday [17 April 2023] morning declared Senator Aishatu Dahiru Binani the winner of the Adamawa Governorship Election.The Resident Electoral Commissioner for the state, Barrister Hudu Yunusa just made the declaration following the supplementary election held Saturday"._

However, shortly thereafter came another breaking news, to the effect that _*"INEC Voids Declaration Of Binani As Winner, Summons REC To Abuja".* Daily Trust Newspapers reported therein that "The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) was reported to have voided the declaration of Senator Aisha Dahiru, aka Binani, as winner of the Adamawa State Governorship Election". A statement by Festus Okoye, INEC'S National Commissioner, Information & Voter Education reads, according to Daily Trust:

_"The attention of the Commission has been drawn to a purported declaration of winner in the Adamawa Governorship Election by the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) even when the process has clearly not been concluded. The attention of the Commission has been drawn to a purported declaration of winner in the Adamawa Governorship election by the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) even when the process has clearly not been concluded. Consequently, the collation of results of the supplementary election is hereby suspended. The REC, Returning Officer and all involved are hereby invited to the Commissions Headquarters in Abuja immediately"_

As is typical of Nigeria, a controversy immediately ensued among lawyers and members of the public as to the propriety of the actions of the Adamawa REC and the later remedial action by the INEC, with traducers of INEC arguing that by virtue of Section 149 of the Electoral Act, 2022, the action of the REC was valid until set aside by a court of law. Section 149 provides:

_"Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Act, any defect or error arising from any actions taken by an official of the Commission in relation to any notice, form or document made or given or other things done by the official in pursuance of the provisions of the Constitution or of this Act, or any rules made thereunder remain valid, unless otherwise challenged and declared invalid by a competent court of law or tribunal"._

With due respect, it is hereby submitted that section 149 of the Electoral Act has no application or relevance to the legal anathema perpetrated in broad daylight by the Adamawa REC. Reasons:

1. First, only a Returning Officer could make a declaration and return. The Adamawa State Resident Electoral Commissioner, *Yunusa Hudu Ari,* is not the Returning Officer in the Adamawa Governorship Election and thus has no power to make a declaration and return in the election. The duly appointed Returning Officer for that election is *Professor Mohammed Mele,* Professor of English and Linguistics from the University of Maiduguri. Section 66 of the Electoral Act, 2022,* which assigns the job of making a declaration and return exclusively to the *Returning Officer* for the affected election.

2. Where a statute prescribes that an act MUST be done in a particular way, that act can only be validly done in the prescribed manner. In *SANUSI V. AYOOLA & ORS (1992) LPELR-3009(SC),* the Supreme Court said (Per KARIBI-WHYTE ,J.S.C pp. 19-20, paras. F-C) that: _*'It is well settled principle of our jurisprudence and an important requirement of our administration of justice that where the exercise of a power is statutory, such power can only be exercised within the limits prescribed by the statute  See Bowaje v. Adediwura (1976) 6 S.C.143.*_ See also

*Odua Investment Co. Ltd. v. Talabi* (1997) 10 NWLR (Pt. 523) 1; (1997) SCNJ 600 at 649  per Ogundare, JSC (of blessed memory)

3 See also *section 64(7) of the Act*, which says that where after a result as announced by a Collation Officer at any level *is disputed,* the Collation Officer has the right to cancel the earlier collation already made and re-collate and announce a new result following the mandatory RESULT DISPUTE RESOLUTION PROCEDURE set out in section 64 (6) of the Act. In the Adamawa case, the duly appointed state Collation Officer (ie, the Returning Officer), Professor Mohammed Mele, had not even announced any results at all. So , how does section 149 become relevant? No way!

4. Even after the Returning Officer, duly appointed, has already officially made a declaration in line with *sections 64(7) or (8) or section 66 of the Act,* the Act still donates power to the INEC to *REVIEW* THE DECLARATION AND RETURN. Unlike the Electoral Act 2010, the Electoral Act 2022 affords the INEC a discretionary power to review the election/results where the results are disputed after the declaration and return of a winner has been made by the Returning Officer. *The proviso to section 65(1)(c) of the Electoral Act* gives INEC the power to review the results after a winner has been declared. However, such a review *(which may take the form of re-collation, cross-checking, verification of the results, or even outright cancellation or suspension and rescheduling or fresh elections)* must be conducted within seven (7) days of the declaration and return.Section 65(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 provides that (1) The decision of the returning officer shall be final on any question arising from or relating to(a) unmarked ballot paper; (b) rejected ballot paper ; and (c) declaration of scores of candidates and the return of a candidate: Provided that the Commission shall have the power within seven days to review the declaration and return where the Commission determines that the said declaration and return was not made voluntarily or was made contrary to the provisions of the law, regulations and guidelines, and manual for the election.Where the result/election is disputed but INEC fails to conduct a review within the seven days, INEC would thereafter lose power to do anything about the declaration and return. All complaints thereafter are to be channelled to the Election Petition Tribunal. The Grounds For INEC-Review of Declaration and Return Already Made by A Returning Officer include *(See the proviso to section 65(1)(c)):*

*(a)* That the declaration and return was not made voluntarily;

*(b)* That the declaration and return was made contrary to the Electoral Act 2022;

*(c)* That the declaration and return was made contrary to the Regulations and Guidelines for

Conduct of Elections 2022; or

*(d)* That the declaration and return was made contrary to the Manual for the elections.

Thus, assuming without conceding that the Adamawa REC can usurp the powers of the duly appointed Returning Officer to make a declaration and return, the argument will still fall like a pack of cards in the face of the POWER given to the INEC by *the proviso to section 65(1)(c) of the Electoral Act, to review a declared result.* Note that if such a review is not conducted within the seven days of the return, INEC would lose power to do anything about the declaration and return.

5 If section 149 should be relevant anywhere or to any aspect of the Adamawa scenario, it is to the REVIEW action taken by the INEC pursuant to section 65 (1)(c) of the Act. Thus if anyone thinks there is any defect or error arising from the REVIEW action taken or REVIEW Notice given by INEC'S National Commissioner, Information & Voter Education (Festus Okoye) on behalf of and directly under the directive of INEC or its Chairman in pursuance of the provisions of the of this Act of the Regulations and Guidelines or Manual, remain valid, unless otherwise challenged and declared invalid by a competent court of law or tribunal. There is no law at all backing up or authorizing what the ADAMAWA REC; on the other hand, sections 64(6),(7)&(8), 66 and 65(1)(c) of the Electoral Act expressly authorizes INEC to review any result declared against law._ Therefore, it is respectfully submitted that, pursuant to section 149, INEC's officially Release/Directive/Notice (as issued by the National Commissioner, Information & Voter Education) voiding the earlier usurpative and illegal declaration/return made by the Adamawa REC, stands unless and until "otherwise challenged and declared invalid by a competent court of law or tribunal". This, it's respectfully submitted, appears to be the only reasonable and way to make section 149 relevant to the scenario.

*CONCLUSION:*

What the Adamawa REC did gives him out as an incorrigible recidivist who unfortunately happened to have found his way, perhaps surreptitiously into INEC appointment. But God has helped us to expose his nefarious activities against the rule of law, due process, the electoral Act, the Nigerian nation and all Nigerians. In some countries, he would have been lying dead by now, waiting for interment and already receiving the *usual rest-in-peace wishes.* But in civilized nations, he ought to have been arrested, arraigned in court, and already undergoing trial while awaiting his conviction and jail sentence.

There are many such criminals inside INEC and other public institutions in Nigeria. They got there by anything but not on merit and competence. Please, I humbly advise, fish them out, from top to bottom, and have them out of the system forthwith, *that we may breathe some fresh air which is necessary for progress.* Are we not fed up with the level of brigandage and insanity going on with leadership in a country that ought ordinarily to have joined the leaders of the world? Cruel leaders are replaced only to have new leaders turn cruel, leading to a debasement, desecration and corruption of our best institutions by the very worst among us.

Some have argued that power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely, or that, as Pa Awolowo put it, _power enslaves and absolute power enslaves absolutely._ Dear Pa Awolowo, I don't think that this applies in the Nigerian scenario; the apposite, and applicable declaration is found in William Gaddis': *Power doesnt corrupt people, people corrupt power.* So, by way of a solution, I have found through research that there are, indeed, many options to solving Nigeria's problems. But I think that the one that would work faster in knocking the prevailing insanity out of the heads of some of our country's leaders, was put forward by Leo Tolstoy, _*Since [it's now obvious that] corrupt people unite among themselves to constitute a force, then honest people must do the same.*_

If we allow such an impunity to stand under the now rampant, criminal-mind-inspired go-to-court mantra, and pretending to rely on whole-inapplicable section 149 of the Act, then, in the next coming round of elections, a Polling Unit Officer could from the Polling Unit, or an INEC driver could from the comfort of his car, *make a declaration and return for an entire State,* and considering that each and both are _*"INEC officials",*_ we would accept it based on section 149 and then tell those who don't like to go to court, and *Senator Smart Adeyemi* would come out to make the following declaration:

*"THOSE UPSET ABOUT 2023 ELECTION OUTCOME SHOULD WAIT FOR 2027  SENATOR SMART ADEYEMI"* Hear Smart Adeyemi on 06 April 2023:

_"I speak my mind at any point in time. And let me tell you the truth, I hold the view that this election was free to a large extent and better than the previous election. Those who feel bitter can just wait for the next election"_ [Channels TV].

But, then, the American concept of _what goes round comes around,_ was there soon enough, somehow, for Senator Smart Adeyemi. See:

_*RESULTS WERE READY BEFORE ELECTION  SMART ADEYEMI FAULTS KOGI APC GUBER PRIMARY.*_ Hear the same Smart Adeyemi, of Kogi West, on 16 April 2023 (faulting the conduct of the APC governorship primaries in Kogi State on 14 April 2023):

_We witnessed a new phenomenon of electoral malpractices and embedded corruption in the electoral process of our country. I have heard of riggings of elections but I have not heard of the new phenomenon which we must do all we can to stop in this country. Results were prepared, even before the commencement of voting. This is the worst malpractice; the worst form of rigging and unprecedented in the history of Nigeria.The primary election in Kogi was just allocation of votes"_ [thecable.ng].

Now, can I hear someone saying, _"Dear Distinguished Senator Smart Adeyemi, sir, why complain? *Just wait until 2027"?_ This is what happens when we condone brazen impunity and brigandage; they sooner than later pay us some visit. And *he who has brought home ant-infested firewood should know that visits by lizards are just a matter of time; inescapable.*

Accordingly, we had better come together to find a way to lawfully ditch these bitchly conducts of the bitches in public offices. Else, they would soon grow to consume all who promote and condone them. _*As e dey sweet us, e dey pain them*_ is a two-way sword, waiting like a time bomb, with the assistance of Karma's retributive justice, to strike.

Another way to end moral corruption and impunity is to work to create strong watchdog institutions and partnering or monitoring agencies. Hence, *Rigoberta Menchu* , a Nobel Prize laureate said: _Without strong watchdog institutions, impunity becomes the very foundation upon which systems of corruption are built. And if impunity is not demolished, all efforts to bring an end to corruption are in vain._

On my part, I shall continue through Law discussions, to write and write, until we write this country out of its multifarious but self-imposed maladies. Like I said earlier, quoting Abraham Lincoln, in a commentary published under the heading, _*"Overcoming Security and other challenges: why Nigeria needs much more than spiritual awareness*_ [01 October 2019; [courtroommail.com], _"[Nigeria] will not be destroyed from the outside. If we falter and lose our freedom, it will be because we destroyed ourselves"._

See: *"BREAKING: INEC SUSPENDS ADAMAWA REC FOR DECLARING APCS BINANI WINNER"*

*4.30pm on 17 April 2023*

[dailypost.ng]. INEC in a letter dated April 17, 2023 and signed by its Secretary, Rose Oriaran-Anthony has therefore directed its Administrative Secretary in the state to take charge of its affairs.Part of the letter reads; _I hereby convey the Commissions decision that you (Barr. Hudu Yunusa Ari), Resident Electoral Commissioner, Adamawa State should stay away from the Commissions office in Adamawa State immediately until further notice.The Administrative Secretary has been directed to take full charge of INEC, Adamawa State with immediate effect"._

Meanwhile, there is this rumour that the REC Mr Yunusa Hudu Ari, when summoned by INEC, had claimed that he had to make the declaration because the Returning Officer had "disappeared". *Issues Arising:*

1Mr Hudu, please which law says that where the Returning Officer "disappears" or is made to "disappear", the State REC could step into his shoes?

2. By the way, had collation been concluded when you announced the declaration and return?

3. Well, there is no need for further elaboration; (permit my resort to pidgin English) _if you think say you get sense pass everyone, the law get sense bigger pass yours_ because *the proviso to section 65(1)(c) of the Electoral Act 2022* had anticipated such bitchly actions as yours. So, the declaration and return *UNLAWFULLY* made by a bitchly Adamawa REC has now been *LAWFULLY REVIEWED* by the INEC. Case closes.

*COMMENDATIONS:*

First, I commend INEC for its timely intervention in the Adamawa scenario. A Law Teacher wrote, Ochem, PhD, _"Since the electoral body discovered the mistake timeously and acted with dispatch, it was a decision in the right direction to avoid anarchy.Remember that when an act is void it is in law a nullity. It is not only bad but incurably bad....Per lord Denning"_

Second, I thank God for the makers of the Electoral Act 2022, for their wisdom and foresight in having seen tomorrow that would eventually throw up *Mr Yunusa Hudu Ari.*

Third, I commend the innovativeness of the Electoral Act 2022. If not for the provisions of sections 64(6),(7)&(8) and 66 of the Electoral Act and the proviso to 65 (1)(c), which quicky came to citizen's rescue, Adamawa State would have gone up in flames , by now.

Fourth, I thank the lawmakers in the National Assembly for the Electoral Act 2022; it's a great piece of 21st-century-thinking and progress-minded legal document. Anyone who would take his time, would calm down and read the Electoral Act 2022 with an open mind, would agree that if that legislation could be honestly and religiously implemented by all stakeholders, the USA and the UK would be coming to Nigeria for Evening Lessons on on how to conduct credible, transparent elections and generally on election matters. *Aristotle* wrote: _"It is more proper that law should govern than any one of the citizens: upon the same principle, if it is advantageous to place the supreme power in some particular persons, they should be appointed to be only guardians, and the servants of the laws"._ [Aristotle, Politics 3.16]

I respectfully disagree with the insinuation in some quarters, that "The Electoral Act 2022 is a scam, a fraud". I submit that it's our warped implementation of the Act's clear provisions that is fraught with fraudulent intentions. So, let's stop blaming the law for our own deficiencies and mischieviousness. If we falter and fall, it's entirely our own fault, not the fault of our laws. Even an imperfect law, if perfectly implemented, can yield perfect results.

*My humble opinion though,* respectfully submitted,

Sylvester Udemezue (Udems).

08109024556.

[email protected]


CANBERRA, April 18 (Xinhua) -- Australia's automotive industry has called for the government to impose emissions limits on car makers.

Peak industry body the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) recently said its figures show there is room for the government to legislate an ambitious carbon dioxide emissions standard on car manufacturers.

Australia does not have laws requiring car makers to meet emissions limits for their entire fleet, which experts have said has made the country a "dumping ground" for high-polluting petrol and diesel vehicles.

The FCAI has created a voluntary standard for the industry and has joined environmental groups in advocating for a mandatory standard.

Chris Bowen, minister for climate change, is set to release the government's electric vehicle strategy within days.

Consultations on the landmark policy noted that an absence of fuel standards was cited as a key barrier to bringing EVs and fuel-efficient models to the Australian market.

Environmentalists have called for Australia to adopt standards in line with the European Union while the industry wants targets similar to those of the United States. 
Osun State Police Command has said two criminal suspects escaped from one of its prisons in Osogbo, the state capital.

The command, however, said one of the suspect, a 22-year-old man, Akanni Ridwan, has been re-arrested, while the other one was still on the run.

It was said that Ridwan was in handcuffs with another suspect before the duo bolted away to an unknown destination where they allegedly destroyed the handcuffs.

According to the police, the two suspects allegedly committed the acts on March 2, 2023 at about 11:00pm at Gbonmi Area, Oke-Baale, Osogbo, capital of the state.

However, Ridwan was arrested by the police after the alleged jail break but his co-suspect escaped and has since been at large.

After completing investigation on the matter, Ridwan was dragged before an Osogbo Magistrates Court.

The Police slammed the two suspects with four-counts bordering on conspiracy, escaping from lawful custody and possessing Indian hemp.

Police Prosecutor, Rasaq Olayiwola during arraignment yesterday, told the court that Ridwan and one other at large, on the 2nd of March, 2023 at about 11:00pm at Gbonmi Area, Oke-Baale, Osogbo, conspired among themselves to commit felony to wit escape/malicious damage.

Olayiwola further explained that the suspects were unlawfully in possession of dried weeds suspected to be Indian hemp, adding the accused escaped from lawful custody with handcuff, property of the Nigeria Police Force and maliciously damaged the said police handcuff valued at N10,000, property of Nigeria Police Force.

The alleged offences according to the Prosecutor contravened Section 516, 430, 451 and 135 (b) of the Criminal Code Cap 34 Vol II Laws of Osun State of Nigeria, 2002. However, the accused person pleaded not guilty to the allegations.

Defence Counsel, Suleiman Akano, applied for the bail of the accused person in the most liberal term. But, police prosecutor, Rasaq Olayiwola, objected to the bail application on the ground that the defendant had escaped police custody and had tendency of abusing bail privilege if granted. In his ruling, Magistrate A. A. Adeyeba granted the accused person bail in the sum of N500,000 with two sureties in the like amount.

Adeyeba directed that one of the sureties must be a business-man and a biological relation of the defendant. He thereafter, adjourned the case till May 16, 2023 for hearing.
New York, April 18, 2023Nigerian authorities should investigate the recent harassment of journalist Benedict Uwalaka by a police officer and ensure members of the press can work freely, the Committee to Protect Journalists said Tuesday.

On the morning of Monday, April 17, an unidentified police officer attacked Uwalaka, a freelance photojournalist working with the privately owned Daily Trust newspaper, while he covered a protest at an airport in Lagos, according to a report by the Daily Trust and Uwalaka, who spoke to CPJ by phone.

Uwalaka said that the officer injured his hand, which was still painful the following day, and damaged his camera, breaking its screen and preventing its lens from reattaching.

Nigerian authorities should swiftly and transparently investigate the recent assault of journalist Benedict Uwalaka by a police officer, said Angela Quintal, CPJs Africa program coordinator. Police in Nigeria too often arrest and harass journalists for their work. Authorities should ensure recourse and restitution for those who face such abuses.

Uwalaka told CPJ that he was covering a protest by aviation workers at the airport when an officer sitting in a police vehicle with two other officers summoned him and criticized the journalist for taking a womans photo without her permission.

He asked me to delete the picture. I said no, Uwalaka told CPJ, saying the officer then grabbed his camera and punched him in the hand about 10 times.

The officer took Uwalaka to the airports police station and left, saying he would return. When he did not come back after about 40 minutes, officers at the station told Uwalaka that he was free to leave.

Uwalaka said he then waited at the station for more than two hours hoping to speak to a supervisor, but left when they did not arrive. Officers at the airport station told Uwalaka that they did not know the officer who had brought him in.

The police said that unless the person who brought me is available, there is nothing they can do about it, Uwalaka said. They do not know him and there is no way they can trace him.

Lagos police spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin told CPJ via messaging app that questions should be directed to the airports police command.

When CPJ called that offices spokesperson, Olayinka Ojelade, he said he was not available to comment and would provide contact details for another spokesperson; he had not done so by the time of publication.

Previously, in 2012, hospital workers in Lagos beat Uwalaka with their fists and hit him with bottles and sticks while he covered the aftermath of a plane crash, as CPJ documented at the time. Uwalaka took his attackers to court , but the case was dismissed in September 2019, he told CPJ.
Rev. Kevin Fast advanced to the next round of Canadas Got Talent.





Pulling a choir on a riser across the stage to the strains of the Hallelujah chorus from Handels Messiah earned Cobourgs celebrated strongman Rev. Kevin Fast a trip to the second round of Canadas Got Talent.

Fast performed his feat of strength during auditions on Week 4 of the second season of Canadas Got Talent, taped earlier this month at the new OLG concert stage at the Fallsview Casino in Niagara Falls.

Upon Fast arriving at centre stage to be introduced to the judges and audience, judge Trish Stratus quipped Santa? as she reacted to his long, white beard.

While being introduced to judges Howie Mandel, Lilly Singh, Stratus and Kardinal Offishall, Fast noted he was age 59 and was from Cobourg, Ont., Canada. When asked by Mandel what he did for a living, Fast replied he has been a full-time Lutheran minister for over 30 years. When Mandel further inquired, Are you really a minister? Fast pulled up his beard to reveal his ministers collar.

Upon Fast being strapped into his harness and getting into a crouched stance to begin his pull, Singh turned to Stratus and quipped, If he pulls a reindeer Im going to lose my mind because youre all thinking it; youre all thinking it.

Fast then put his extraordinary strength to the test as he pulled the choir across the stage, noting on the show he pulled approximately 8,000 pounds the full 30-foot width of the stage.

Fast received a standing ovation from Mandel and ultimately received passing grades from Mandel, Offishall, and Stratus, with Singh being the lone holdout.

I was kind of hoping for more, noted Singh. She was roundly booed by the studio audience.

Asked later by host Lindsay Ell if he had any forgiveness for Singh, Fast replied: There is always room for forgiveness.

Upon learning he received enough votes from the judges to stay in the competition, Fast was given a standing ovation by the audience.

Fast said it was a great experience to be part of the show and is looking forward to moving on.

It was really enjoyable. They did a really good job. They made it easy for me to be a contestant. My particular feat of strength was successful and three of the four judges gave me the go-ahead, which was enough to go on to the next round, which was another great honour, Fast told Northumberland News.

I was completely surprised and thrilled that they considered it worthy to continue on, he added.

Looking calm and confident during his appearance on the show, which airs on Citytv, Fast said he has had plenty of practise over the years, having appeared on numerous television shows.

Yeah, Ive done (television) a fair bit, quite a few shows  I guess it gets easier with repetition, said Fast. They helped me to feel at home.

Because of show rules, Fast said he cant divulge what happens in the next round, although Mandel was pleased to see Fast would get another shot.

I love the idea of seeing what we can do with you and spending Citytvs money, explained Mandel.

Fast, one of the strongest men in the world and the holder of 33 official records for feats of strength in the Guinness World Records, is still mulling an offer to pull a military tank at the Oshawa Regiment Museum. It would represent an attempt at a 34th record.

He notes Guinness requires an engineer gives a certificate denoting a grade of zero for the surface on which he will make the pull. Guinness also asks for an official waybill for the weight of the tank.

If they can get those two things done for me, Ill do a practice (run) and then if that goes well, Ill go ahead with an attempt in a month after that. Its still in the planning stages, said Fast.

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During March, more than $100,000 was lost as a result of bitcoin scams in Peterborough, Lakefield and Cavan-Monaghan.

Peterborough Police Service say officers continue to receive reports of frauds and scams involving bitcoin.

Police add in recent days, two incidents were reported, and both were scams involving cryptocurrency investments.

Between the two reports about $16,000 was lost,state police. In the month of March, which is Fraud Prevention Awareness Month, there was over $100,000 lost to bitcoin scams in Peterborough, Lakefield and Cavan-Monaghan.

The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre says cryptocurrency scams are becoming more common with fraudsters. In 2022, Canadians lost a total of $125.8 million where cryptocurrency was used as the payment method.

Facts about cryptocurrency:

 Once you send crypto currency, it is gone

 Government agencies do not accept cryptocurrencies

 Be wary of any person/company claiming to need more funds to unlock or access your existing account balance

 Fraudsters will sometimes pay back small amounts of money making you believe your investments are paying off

 All legitimate Canadian virtual currency dealers are required to register with the federal government (FINTRAC) and you can verify their registration by visiting the FINTRAC website. Be careful of exchanges that operate from countries outside of Canada.

You can report any frauds or scams to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501. If you are a victim of fraud, please call the Peterborough Police Service at 705-876-1122 or report it online www.peterboroughpolice.com/online-reporting

Peterborough Police Service reminds people to approach unsolicited calls and urgent requests for money with extreme caution. Residents are always encouraged to check the story and speak to others about what theyre being asked to do.

For more fraud prevention tips visit www.peterboroughpolice.com/fraud



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Central Smith Creamerys first-ever Paws For A Cause drive has wrapped up, surpassing the expectations of organizers who collected donations bound for four local animal rescue organizations.

As part of the inaugural month-long drive  launched by the Green Team, a newly formed committee made up of Central Smith employees  donors were asked to drop off used textile items, including towels, blankets, flannel bed sheets and small fitted crib sheets. The drive, led by Green Team chair Steve Paul  Central Smiths logistics manager  encouraged community members to upcycle the much-needed items during spring cleaning.

The drive, which ended on April 14, brought in a huge haul of donations. Ten 55-gallon drums, packed with hundreds of items, were filled to the brim.

I was not expecting to receive 10 drums worth. It exceeded my expectations, Paul said, adding that hes extremely happy about the outpouring of support from the community.

Central Smith has always been great about giving back to the community. I think we reached our Central Smith audience plus a different audience as well and spread our message as far as we could, he continued.

Paul is now in the process of distributing the items to the Lakefield Animal Welfare Society, the Peterborough Humane Society, the Kawartha Wildlife Centre and the Animal Rescue Krew,

During the final week of the drive, things took a tragic turn for Paul. After bringing his 10-year-old dog Maggie to the Kawartha Veterinary Emergency Clinic, Paul was forced to say goodbye to his beloved pet after she was diagnosed with congestive heart failure.

But the unfortunate turn of events helped Paul connect with staff at the clinic  and he was ultimately left with a refreshed perspective on the importance of supporting animal care and rescue centres.

I was just talking with them and said, hey is this something youd consider helping out with? he recalled. Kawartha Veterinary Emergency Clinic has offered to be a liaison with all the regular animal clinics in Peterborough and we would like to include them in year two of the drive where we could use the vet clinics as donation locations.

After sharing Maggies story on social media, Paul heard from a follower he has yet to meet that theyd made a donation to the Hamilton Humane Society.

It was deeply important that it happened because it means we can help other organizations and it gives me ideas for perspective and scale for years to come. It just made me feel like everything came full circle.

BB Brendan Burke is a staff reporter at the Examiner, based in Peterborough. His reporting is funded by the Canadian government through its Local Journalism Initiative.

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Peterborough-Kawartha MPP Dave Smith considers it a badge of honour to be added to the list of 333 Canadian officials and public figures on Russias Foreign Ministrys list of banned Canadians.

I think it's all retaliation for the stuff that Canada has done, said Smith, whose name was added April 12. And they likely just looked at a list of government officials and threw us all on it.

MP Michelle Ferreri was banned from Russia in March 2022, and told The Examiner Tuesday that she has nothing more to add about the matter.

Smith noted that virtually the entire Ontario Progressive Conservative caucus has been added, with only a few new members slipping through the bans cracks.

They were newly elected members in this past election, so they haven't garnered very much attention with the Russian government yet, he said. Because they haven't been around long enough.

Meanwhile, even former members have been added to the list, explained Smith.

Rod Phillips, for example, was added to the list, and he didn't run, he said. He stepped down back in February of last year. So, it's been more than a year since he's been a member, and yet he was on the list.

Smith finds this the whole situation amusing.

I get a good chuckle out of it. I think it's kind of funny, a foreign government like that sees me as such a security risk, he said.

It all seems rather desperate, Smith explained, with Russia simply trying to show strength by making everybody in the West out to be horrible; possibly out of concern of unrest.

This is just a demonstration of a government that is finding itself so out of tune with what's going on with the rest of the world, he said. The actions of the Russian government, of Vladimir Putin, makes it obvious that he is a desperate man trying to garner support in his own jurisdiction.

If Smith were to travel to Russia, which he never has, he would be arrested. He is also not allowed to do business with Russian companies, but this is also a pointless restriction, he added.

It really means absolutely nothing for what we do here in Ontario, nothing for what I do in the greater Peterborough area, he said. I take it as a badge of honour that a communist government is so offended by me that they don't want me to show up in their country, he said.

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A new exhibit coming to the Peterborough Museum and Archives features 13 quilled wiigwaasii makakoons (pronounced weeg-wah-see mah-ka-coons) that were given to the Prince of Wales on Sept. 7, 1860, when he stopped at Rice Lake village (now Hiawatha First Nation) during a royal tour of Canada.

Now the artifacts are coming home. The exhibit opens Saturday and runs until Nov. 19. Admission to the museum, located on Museum Drive off Hunter Street East on Armour Hill, is by donation.

The exhibit was arranged through a partnership between Hiawatha First Nation, the Mississauga Nation and the Peterborough Museum and Archives and Royal Collection Trust.

To Honour and Respect: Gifts from the Michi Saagiig Women to the Prince of Wales, 1860 will explore the cultural knowledge, love, respect, and diplomacy that went into the makakoons, states a museum press release.

The makakoons have been part of the Royal Trust Collection at Osborne House on the Isle of Wight since 1860 and are to the museum by King Charles III. The Prince of Wales in 1860 was Prince Albert Edward, son of Queen Victoria, who went on to become King Edward VII. He was King Charless great-great-grandfather.

Associated programming during the exhibit will include workshops on quillwork by Hiawatha First Nation artist Sandra Moore and the Michi Saagig language by Curve Lake First Nation member Jonathan Taylor.

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Galen Weston is stepping back from day-to-day operations of Loblaw Companies Ltd. in a senior leadership shuffle that will see a European retail executive take over as president and CEO.

Canadas largest grocer and drugstore chain said Tuesday the chief executive of Denmarks leading grocery retailer Salling Group A/S, Per Bank, will join the company in early 2024.

The hiring will see Weston step aside from the president role, which he took on in 2021 when Sarah Davis retired from the job. He will remain chairman of Loblaw and chairman and CEO of holding company George Weston Ltd.

Im not leaving. Im stepping back into what I consider to be my natural role as the controlling shareholder, Weston said during a call with analysts.

The takeaway here is this is not a sharp left turn, he said. This is about evolution and building on the platform thats been established.

Weston took on the role of president just as Canada entered a sustained period of high inflation. Food costs have risen at the fastest rate in decades.

Higher grocery prices have largely been attributed to supply chain disruptions, extreme weather, soaring input costs and Russias invasion of Ukraine. But some Canadians have questioned whether competition factors or so-called greedflation by grocers have also played a role.

Its an accusation most often levelled at Loblaw, as the countrys biggest operator, and more specifically at Weston.

Industry experts have noted that while the claims may be unfounded, having the wealthy scion of a powerful family empire as the face of the grocer  as some Canadians struggle to buy food  is part of the perception problem.

Meanwhile, Bank worked his way up through the retail sector ranks over the last three decades.

He started in supply chain operations and eventually became CEO of Scandinavian retail chain Coop Norden.

In 2012, Bank became the fourth CEO of the more than century-old Salling Group, which operates department stores, supermarkets and discount stores.

Under his tenure, the company has grown its market share by more than 20 per cent, Loblaw said.

We needed somebody who had deep retail knowledge, retail pedigree and retail excellence, Weston said. Thats what we built the success of Loblaws performance over the last few years on, and (Bank) rang the bell in every way on that.

The global search for a new president and CEO was launched last August, which resulted in a shortlist of five candidates, he said.

We took our time with this process ... and (Bank) was the clear standout, Weston said, noting that the parallels between Loblaw and Salling Group are quite remarkable.

He has extensive experience working for a controlling family, and understands what that relationship needs to be in order for a partnership to be successful, he said.

He has been leading an organization that has an outsized cultural and financial place inside his country and thats the case for Loblaw, Weston said. Were a big company in a small country.

RBC Dominion Securities Inc. analyst Irene Nattel said Bank is a strong operator with a deep background in multi-channel food retail across geographies.

Bank will be taking the helm of a Loblaw enjoying strong momentum and results, well-positioned against the backdrop of high prices and value-seeking, cash-squeezed consumers, she said.

Meanwhile, Loblaw chief operating officer Robert Sawyer  who came out of retirement to take on the role in 2021  plans to retire at the end of the year.

Sawyer worked for grocer Metro Inc. for more than 30 years, including in the role of executive vice-president and chief operating officer, before becoming president and chief executive of Quebec-based home improvement retailer Rona in 2013.

With Roberts deserved retirement approaching, his shoes were always going to be hard to fill, Loblaw chief financial officer Richard Dufresne told analysts.

However, having spent some time with (Bank), its clear that he is a seasoned grocery retailer with a broad and deep skill set, much like a slightly younger version of Robert.

Weston added: If you could find a Robert Sawyer who was 55, that would be an ideal combination for us and here with (Bank) we think we found that.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 18, 2023.

Companies in this story: (TSX:L, TSX:WN)

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YANGON, April 18 (Xinhua) -- Myanmar authorities have seized 27.72 kilograms of heroin in Kachin state of northern Myanmar, the state media citing the Central Committee for Drug Abuse Control reported on Tuesday.

Acting on a tipoff, anti-narcotics police searched a 22-wheeled vehicle in Mohnyin township of Kachin state on April 14 and confiscated the heroin being carried in soap containers, the report said.

An investigation showed the drugs were transported from Shan state to Kachin state. Two suspects were charged in the case.

The seized narcotics are worth over 690 million kyats (over 328,571 U.S. dollars), it said.

The suspects were charged under the country's Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Law, and further investigations were underway, it said. 
Four years ago, Leslie Feist adopted a baby girl. As the Canadian art-pop chanteuse spent the liminal hours of the night with her newborn, she began tapping into what she describes as something altogether more ancient than she had expected. It was an instinct that bubbled from her very core.

She needed to sing.

Feist had anticipated singing to her child, of course. She is, after all, a Grammy-nominated artist, known for soothing melodies that have the power to move hearts and shift iPods. But when she opened her mouth, something new came out.

It wasnt like the person who had done this for 20 years, touring and making records, she recalled. It was something so primary and immediate and naturally occurring.

Obliterated by exhaustion, her brain had shut itself off to influence and reference. New melodies came spilling out, little streams of consciousness arriving in lullaby form. She had, in essence, discovered a new artist, hidden beneath the weight of her life.

I was singing words that I was aware (my daughter) didnt know yet and there was something so fresh about hearing myself singing, said Feist in an interview. I felt these words were so important, but I was the only consciousness in the room really hearing them; she was hearing the intention inside them. There was an exchange happening.

Of that formative experience, Feist said, In that moment I felt pretty unfamiliar to myself: the person who decides to be a parent and isnt that useful at being a parent. Becoming a parent only shows you what you dont know.

These ultraprivate moments have unfolded into Multitudes, Feists sixth album and her first in as many years. As its title suggests, the album is a reset for Feist. She calls it a scattering of bread crumbs.

Thats the genesis of Multitudes. Then came the pandemic and the grief.

With the onset of COVID-19, Feist moved her nascent family from L.A.  where she had bought a house to escape the frigid Ontario winter  to a countryside estate near Toronto, where she sheltered with her daughter and her dad, the artist Harold Feist.

Free from the demands of the music industry, she had the opportunity to experience the joy of her father, then in his 70s, holding her baby. I saw him see her, she said.

Her new surroundings inspired her to keep working on her lullabies. Feist began seeing the songs as musical ASMR (autonomous sensory meridian response), giving dynamic prominence to the balance of breath, the elongation of words. Where previously she would temper her mellifluous tenor with jagged instrumentation, she now turned to a simple nylon string guitar; where lyrics were previously opaque, they were now deeply personal.

I was considering my own place in the authorship of my optimism, she said. I was working to locate the woman I needed to metamorphosis into to become the mother of this person.

Then, in the spring of 2021, Harold died. By that point, Feist had written almost all of Multitudes and she had begun working on how to bring an early version of the album to audiences through a series of unconventional residencies. It was intended as a public workshopping but ended up being what she calls a grief ritual.

Ive seen it bandied about in a way that makes me feel uncomfortable that this album was me writing about losing my dad, said Feist, referring to early media coverage. Thats not true in the sense that the songs were written before I had lost him.

She concedes that the songs, bound to the experience of re-examining the self and the passage of time, gained a further gravitas after her loss.

My heart grew 100 sizes when (my daughter) arrived, she continued. But my heart being that much bigger was more tender. The show was where my grief went to resolve itself.

All these experiences are present on the 12 songs of Multitudes, where weighted moments run scattershot throughout. On album standout Forever Before, Feist meditates on the self incinerated by motherhood, evoking the line between fear and fearlessness by stretching the words to their very base elements. She takes to primal yelps over a shock of sonic vastitude on Borrow Trouble and, on the sprawling elegy Become the Earth, a choral of Feists calmly wrap the listener in an immersive blanket of comfort.

The effect lends Multitudes its own brand of empathy  as if filling the gaps where words were too simple to convey such deep emotions.

Last fall, Feist began preparing for a European tour as an opening act for Montreal band Arcade Fire. Days before the tour began, Arcade Fire band leader Win Butler faced multiple accusations of sexual misconduct. (He has denied the accusations.) Two shows later, Feist pulled out of the tour.

The last two nights onstage, my songs made this decision for me, she wrote in a statement. Hearing them through this lens was incongruous with what Ive worked to clarify for myself through my whole career. Ive always written songs to name my own subtle difficulties, aspire to my best self and claim responsibility when I need to. And Im claiming my responsibility now and going home.

For our interview, she requested not to speak further about the situation. Instead, she suggested audiences take Multitudes with them out into the world: In a perfect world, I hope theyre listening to it while taking their dog for a walk.

In considering Multitudes, Feist said shes not dismissing her pre-kid self. Instead, shes found comfort in being able to reassess things she may have taken for granted, like her appearance on Sesame Street, which featured a reimagining of her hit, I, 2, 3, 4. On YouTube, the appearance has racked up a staggering 946 million views.

For years, I had people tell me how much that song means (to them and their kids) and, as a person without a child, Id always think, Oh, thats cute, she said. Now I can appreciate it in a new way.

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NANAIMO, B.C. - The B.C. Prosecution Service has withdrawn contempt charges against 11 old-growth logging protesters accused of breaching a court injunction during blockades at Fairy Creek on Vancouver Island.

Spokesman Gordon Comer said prosecutors were in court Tuesday to enter the withdrawals, and the service is reviewing other cases after a ruling that acquitted protester Ryan Henderson earlier this year.

Comer said the Crown is reviewing remaining cases that were affected by the Henderson decision, which tossed out the charge because of the RCMPs failure to properly read the injunction to people arrested during the protest.

We cannot provide any numbers for how many files may be withdrawn, as that will be determined on a case-by-case basis, based on the available evidence. The Crown has filed an appeal of the Henderson decision with the Supreme Court of Canada, Comer said in an emailed statement.

In February, B.C. Supreme Court Justice Douglas Thompson acquitted Henderson on criminal contempt charges, finding the RCMP opted to use a short-form script instead of reading the full text of the court injunction prohibiting interference with Teal Cedars logging activities.

The RCMP script did not transmit sufficient information about the terms of the injunction order, and the information that was delivered via this script was not accurate and clear, Thompsons ruling said.

A lawyer defending protesters said the Crown is expected to withdraw charges against as many as 150 people in the coming weeks because of Thompsons decision.

B.C. Civil Liberties Association President Karen Mirsky, who has defended several clients facing contempt charges for protests at Fairy Creek, said police didnt follow long-standing legal principles when they failed to read the full injunction.

Mirsky said the RCMP spent millions of dollars during the protests and the forces failure to properly enforce the injunction highlights how provinces should rethink the kinds of policing theyre getting.

She said the RCMPs Community-Industry Response Group was responsible for enforcement actions at Fairy Creek, and the charge withdrawals resulted from police not having the wherewithal to stand in one place and read an injunction fully and hand a copy of an injunction to an individual who is protesting.

It shouldnt come to us as a shock to them that they needed to do this and certainly they have the benefit of their own legal team, she said.

Mirsky said the police units actions during the protests and other events have spurred formal complaints, leading to a review by the Civilian Review and Complaints Commission for the RCMP.

On Tuesday, a coalition of Indigenous groups, environmentalists, human rights advocates, and others announced they will deliver an open letter to the Prime Ministers Office in Ottawa calling for the police response group to be disbanded.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 18, 2023.

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FREDERICTON - New Brunswicks River Watch officials say melting snow in the northwest of the province has a clear path downstream after the ice cover broke up without creating an ice jam.

But they say water levels in the lower Saint John River are rising and should surpass flood stage by Wednesday.

They are asking people living along the lower Saint John River to remain on alert over the coming days as water levels are likely to reach above flood stage in Fredericton, Jemseg and Gagetown.

Geoffrey Downey, spokesman for New Brunswick Emergency Measures Organization, says its been a slow spring for the most part with a little rain over the past couple of days that has led to a rise in water levels, but it is not out of the ordinary.

However, there is still a lot of snow in the woods that could cause water levels to rise as it melts.

The snowpack this year was average, he says, but flooding depends on how quickly it melts, which means residents in low-lying areas should be prepared to leave in a hurry.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 18, 2023.

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Phuket closes Songkran Seven Days campaign with five dead

PHUKET: Phuket officials have recognised 51 road accidents resulting in five deaths and 51 people injured during the Seven Days of Danger road and water safety campaign for Songkran 2023, which concluded at midnight last night (Apr 17).

transportaccidentsSafetydeathpolicetourism

By The Phuket News

Tuesday 18 April 2023, 12:57PM

Image: PR Phuket

The official report for the campaign came from the Phuket office of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM-Phuket) and was released on the Public Relations Phuket Facebook page this morning (Apr 18).

Of the five killed during the campaign, which began last Tuesday (Apr 11), four were males and one was female, said the report. No other details of the deadly accidents were reported.

The report also marked the deaths and injuries during the 24-hour period of yesterday (Apr 17), Day 7 of the campaign. There were seven accidents resulting in seven people injured (two males, five females), but no deaths during Apr 17, said the report.

Last year, Phuket officials recognised four deaths and 28 people injured in 32 accidents during the Songkran Thai New Year holidays.

National road safety agency Thai Road Safety Committee (ThaiRSC) reported zero deaths but 52 people injured in road accidents in Phuket yesterday (Apr 17). At time of posting this story ThaiRSC recognised zero deaths but 22 people injured in road accidents already today (Apr 18).

ThaiRSC reported today (Apr 18) that so far this year 46 people had died and 7,086 people were injured in accidents on the islands roads.

As of today, Phuket Police and related officials involved in the Seven Days campaign have released no details of the accidents that occurred during the Seven Days or the arrests made by police during the campaign.

So far 47 people have died and 7,092 people have been injured in road accidents on the island since the year began, reports national road safety agency Thai Road Safety Committee (ThaiRSC).

The agency also marks that Phuket suffered no deaths and 52 people injured in road accidents yesterday (Apr 17).

Nationwide, 42 people died and 2,040 people were injured in road accidents throughout the country yesterday (Apr 17).

According to ThaiRSC, 4,818 people have died and 244,246 people have been injured in road accidents in Thailand since the start of the year.
EISENSTADT, Austria, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Chinese solar cell maker Aikosolar and Austrian energy company Burgenland Energie on Monday signed a letter of intent here to jointly boost the deployment of solar power in the Austrian state of Burgenland.

The letter of intent covers the building of a joint innovation center and a visitor center in Burgenland as well as research and development cooperation in areas including microgrids, energy internet and carbon neutrality, Aikosolar, a solar solution provider founded in 2009, said in a press release.

At a signing ceremony on Monday, Chen Gang, chairman of Aikosolar, said both sides would make full use of their advantages and resources to help Burgenland promote sustainable development and achieve the state's carbon neutrality target.

Stephan Sharma, CEO of Burgenland Energie, told Xinhua that his company's collaboration with Aikosolar would contribute to Burgenland's pursuit of carbon neutrality and energy independence.

Burgenland Energie, headquartered in Burgenland's state capital Eisenstadt, is a leading solar and wind power producer in Austria.

With a global sales network, Aikosolar now sells products to Europe and Asian countries including South Korea, Japan and India, the company says. 
Two Cambridge youths have been arrested and charged with allegedly robbing the same Hespeler Little Short Stop store twice.

The Waterloo Regional Police Service said that on March 13 and April 1, a convenience store on Jamieson Parkway, near Lardner Street, was robbed by two males brandishing knives.

In each case, police said, currency and merchandise were taken by the suspects, who fled the area on foot.

Through investigation, on April 17, a male youth was arrested by police, before the second male youth was arrested on April 18.

The pair were jointly charged with two counts each of robbery with a weapon and disguise with intent.

Both were held in police custody for a bail hearing.

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Fifty years have gone by since the first Waterloo Regional Police Chorus concert happened at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in New Hamburg.

On May 14, the Chorus will be performing its 1,100th concert right where they began, in the local church to celebrate its 50th anniversary.

We were marched into the church by the police band and we are once again going to have a short parade with our band, a statement from the group reads.

The Waterloo Regional Police Chorus is comprised of community volunteers who perform at events, including community concerts, fundraisers, police events and ceremonies honouring Canadas veterans.

They have raised over $1.6 million for community initiatives and those in need.

The event will start by 2:30 p.m. and is open to the public. There will be a goodwill offering with all donations going toward supporting capital projects at the church

Itll be interesting to go back. I remember being there 50 years ago, said Bob Brown, administrator, Waterloo Regional Police Chorus.

I was a young cadet and I'd just joined the police force in 1972, I joined the Chorus and now Im helping run the Chorus, he added.

Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church is at 23 Church St. in New Hamburg. Visit www.telc.ca.

RELATED STORIES Waterloo Region organization appreciates volunteers for National Volunteer Week

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WATERLOO  Police are investigating a reported sexual assault involving a woman who was walking along King Street North in the early hours of Sunday morning.

At around 3:45 a.m. a 39-year-old woman was approached by two men in a white sedan near King Street and Spring Street East. The driver got out of the vehicle and sexually assaulted the woman, Waterloo Regional Police said. No physical injuries were reported.

When people in the area came over to help the woman, the culprits fled in their vehicle. Police describe the two men as Middle Eastern, between the ages of 25 and 35.

The investigation is ongoing and police are asking anyone with information to contact 519-570-9777. Anonymous tips can be left with Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

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CAMBRIDGE  Two youths are facing criminal charges in connection to repeated robberies at a Hespeler convenience store.

On March 13, and then again on April 1, a convenience store near Jamieson Parkway and Lardner Street was robbed. Two males went in with knives and demanded cash and merchandise, Waterloo Regional Police said. They then fled the area on foot.

On Monday, a Cambridge youth was arrested by police in connection to the robberies. On Tuesday morning, a second Cambridge youth was arrested.

Both males were charged with two counts of robbery with a weapon and two counts of disguise with intent.

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WATERLOO REGION  The individual cabins at the Region of Waterloo outdoor shelter on Erbs Road are starting to look like home.

The 50 cabins will provide a private, safe space for individuals who have been experiencing homelessness, the region said.

Each cabin has a bed, desk, chair and a small fridge.

A main community building will provide amenities such as a common space, a kitchen, washrooms and laundry services.

The region announced in December that a managed encampment would be located on Erbs Road next to the Waterloo Region Emergency Services Training and Research Centre. The site is set to open later this month.

The shelter will occupy just under one hectare of the 40-hectare property in Wilmot at the City of Waterloo border, adjacent to the regions landfill.

The shelter will be run and managed by staff with The Working Centre who will be on site 24-7. The Working Centre has a vehicle and a driver available so that residents living at the shelter can travel to downtown Kitchener when needed.

The Working Centre is speaking with individuals experiencing homelessness and who want to live at the site.

The outdoor shelter is part of the regions interim housing plan to end chronic homelessness, approved last August.

The region approved a 2023 homelessness operating budget of $8.2 million, which includes the outdoor shelter and other measures such as temporary emergency beds, rent assistance for 100 units and expanding transitional housing that is Indigenous-centred and Indigenous-led.

Media and public tours, along with tours for immediate neighbours, will be held before residents move into the cabins, said Region of Waterloo spokesperson Lynsey Slupeiks.

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WATERLOO REGION  The smart-city tech company Miovision raised $260 million in growth funding and acquired the Minnesota-based startup Global Traffic Technologies for technology that gives priority to emergency vehicles and transit at intersections.

Kitchener-based Miovision is growing and closing venture capital deals while the broader tech sector continues to shrink  about 350,000 tech workers lost jobs across North America in the past 15 months.

Miovision CEO Kurtis McBride was in St. Paul, Minn., Tuesday to meet the 80 employees at Global Traffic Technologies after paying $107 million US for the company.

This is an opportunity we couldnt pass up, said McBride in a telephone interview Tuesday.

It is the fourth startup acquired by Miovision in less than two years as it builds out a software and hardware platform that provides municipalities with a variety of technology for improving the flow of traffic through and around signalized intersections.

We are excited about it, said McBride.

Venture capital deals for Communitech member companies were down by half during 2022 to about $1.1 billion. The deal announced by Miovision amounts to more than 20 per cent of the total raised by Communitech companies last year. Miovisions latest raise was led by Telus Ventures with participation by Maverix Private Equity and Export Development Canada.

Miovision now employs more than 400 people. Its technology is used in 65 countries and is deployed at more than 100,000 intersections across North America alone.

The traffic-management industry still operates in a pre-smartphone world, said McBride, and he wants to change that.

Consumers buy a smartphone and add functions with apps. Miovision wants the same approach for municipalities. It is expanding a platform that allows cities to select different apps to improve traffic flow through and around signalized intersections.

With all of these acquisitions, we were acquiring capabilities that were traditionally sold as hardware devices, said McBride. And we are integrating them into a common hardware device.

Global Traffic Technologies Opticom can reduce emergency response times by 25 per cent, and cut emergency vehicle crashes at intersections by 70 per cent while improving transit efficiency, he said.

The head of the Minnesota company is excited to be part of the Miovision platform.

Becoming part of Miovision will give our customers access to an expanded suite of solutions for improving safety and optimizing urban transportation, said Global Traffic Technologies president Terry Griffith in a statement.

Further integrating our solution within the Miovision platform will accelerate development and ensure continued improvement of our priority control solution for transit and emergency responders, he added.

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KITCHENER  A pair of mixed-use projects with a total of 350 residential units was approved by Kitcheners committee of adjustment on Tuesday.

One of the development proposals is for a 34-storey building at the northeast corner of Bleams and Fischer-Hallman roads.

The other, near downtown Kitchener at the corner of King Street East and Stirling Avenue North, is for a nine-storey building with 37 rental units, seven of which will be affordable.

The building at 1200 Fischer-Hallman Rd. will have 313 residential units and about 3,350 square feet of ground-floor commercial space.

A slight reduction in required parking was approved by the committee. The building will have a total of 285 parking spots underground and within the building, along with 165 bicycle spaces.

The developer is also proposing to provide car share vehicles with dedicated parking spots, and subsidized transit passes.

Existing zoning for the property doesnt specify maximum height or density.

The site is currently vacant. A number of other projects are expected to transform the area, including a proposed 13-storey building on the other side of Bleams Road, and medium- and high-density residential developments to the northeast and southwest.

The proposal will provide a significant amount of housing in the form of high-density, multiple residential development, which is important during the present housing crisis and which will support the citys Housing Pledge, a report noted.

The nine-storey building at 744 King St. E. will go on a site thats now vacant, after a 2019 fire destroyed a building housing an insurance broker.

Vive Development plans to offer 37 studio rental apartments, with seven operated as affordable housing with a partnering not-for-profit. There will also be a ground-floor commercial unit.

While the developer sought a number of minor variances, including reduced lot width and rear yard setback and increased height, the most significant was a request to have no parking included in the development.

Current zoning requires 39 spaces; interim planning director Garett Stevenson said the city is looking at reducing parking requirements within major transit station areas (MTSA), especially along corridor roads.

Thats why staff are in support of this (application). We havent committed to zero parking within MTSAs, but its definitely something that were looking at and leaning toward, he said.

The site is a short walk from the Borden LRT station.

The units will be quite small, ranging from 365 to 505 square feet, so theyre not suited to hosting a lot of visitors, said Kate Wills of MHBC Planning.

Vive will provide one loading spot for the building, a secure bicycle space for each unit, and two years of subsidized transit passes for each tenant.

The city will require that lease agreements advise theres no on-site parking for tenants or visitors.

I see a desperate need for this sort of housing product, so hopefully we can focus on what matters here, Vives Stephen Litt urged the committee.

Committee members voted 3-2 in favour of the project.

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WATERLOO REGION  Emergency room nurse Heidi Holmes is distraught over the indignity imposed on a senior who sought emergency care at Guelph General Hospital.

In February the hospital placed four elderly patients on stretchers and parked them in a back hallway after it ran out of beds to admit them and ran out of space in its ER to hold them while they waited for beds.

The hallway is outside of the emergency department. It is without running water or a bathroom. Its noisy. Its busy. The lights cant be dimmed. It has no place to connect to oxygen.

Holmes went into the hallway at night to monitor the four patients. Two patients with dementia could not get the rest they needed in that space. They were confused, loud and irritable. This bothered the other patients, who also could not rest.

One dementia patient needed a toilet. But with no bathroom nearby and no way to safely move her, the only option was to put her on a commode chair with a bucket beneath her.

And so in a bright hallway, without a screen to shield her, an elderly woman with dementia had to squat on a chair and loudly empty her bowels into a bucket while people walked by.

This was an indignity Holmes had not seen in more than 20 years as a nurse. It angered her.

I know better to provide better care. I want to provide better care, she said. But when Im in a hallway with a dementia patient who needs to have a bowel movement, in that situation, I cant do any more.

That same night a toddler in the ER who needed stitches for a cut on his ear waited 12 hours to get seen. Thats also awful, she said.

Holmes does not blame Guelph General, but she has become so frustrated she decided to speak out about a health-care system that is overwhelmed.

Guelph General says it tries not to put patients in the hallway. But if there is no more room in the ER, the hallway is the last resort.

It is not comfortable. It is not equipped. Its not meant to be a place to wait and to receive care. Absolutely not, said Melissa Skinner, hospital vice-president and chief nursing executive. But there are times when we have had to overflow there for pure safety.

Since the indignity Holmes witnessed, the hospital has made screens available in the hallway to provide a bit of privacy.

Guelph in February experienced a surge in sickness from influenza, from a respiratory virus, and from COVID-19. This sickened the population and it sickened hospital employees who could not come in to work.

When you take a fast-growing community, a hospital thats too small, which means the emergency department is also too small, and you factor in a sick community on top of that, you can see how easily we can become overwhelmed, Skinner said.

On average in February, Guelph General admitted almost 22 patients a day from its emergency room, the most in more than a year. Patients were forced to wait almost 23 hours on average in the ER before a bed was found to admit them.

The province targets a wait of eight hours to admit patients from emergency rooms. Fewer than one in five admissions met this target at Guelph General in February, according to data from Ontario Health.

Holmes, 48, is a registered nurse from Waterloo. She has a graduate science degree, teaches nursing at Conestoga College, and works part-time in emergency care.

Nurses on the job sometimes despair about a lack of food sometimes to give people, lack of medications, lack of space, lack of staff, she said. This is not I think what people assume Canadian health care is. And its very frustrating.

So what are the possible solutions?

Skinner said Guelph General is looking to open up more space for beds, perhaps by converting former medical clinics. We very, very much want patients to be cared for in real spaces, not in hallways, she said.

Long-term, the hospital may renovate its current location or expand elsewhere. That wont happen quickly, Skinner said.

Holmes is concerned that emergency rooms see too many patients who could receive care in a different setting. Some lack a family doctor. Some are repeat visitors with poor mental health.

She wants more alternatives to emergency care, and more public education to help people access the appropriate level of care.

If someone is coming to the emergency department 20 times a year, were not meeting their needs, she said. Coming up with something in the system that will better meet their needs, I think, is the solution.

Skinner figures the hospital sees two dozen patients a day in its ER who dont need to be there. She asks that people check with a health-care provider or family doctor first. But the hospital does not want to dissuade anyone from seeking emergency care.

Some people come into the emergency department seeking shelter, food, clothing, or even companionship. Sometimes the people at the hospital are the only ones whove been kind to them, Skinner said.

Guelph General has a program for patients who visit the ER frequently so when they come back time and time again, we have an understanding of why theyre there and how we can help them, Skinner said.

Holmes advocates finding new ways to help keep nurses on the job. This includes new ways to recruit them and to persuade them to work in hospitals rather than in other fields.

Ontario gave nurses one-time bonuses of up to $5,000 last year to keep them on the job. Holmes received a bonus for her work in the ER. While cash is appreciated, what people are looking for is more help in the department. They want more staff, Holmes said.

We would love to have more staff, Skinner said. Yet the hospital has been unable to fill 11 open nursing jobs in its emergency department. This includes two full-time jobs and nine part-time jobs.

To cope, the hospital has increased student placements. It has launched an internship program in emergency care to introduce other nurses to the job and encourage them to take it on.

Holmes wants the public to know that Guelph General employees work hard to provide care, but they can only do so much under such strain. Were doing our best and we need the help of the community, she said.

She means advocating for some change, some funding, some nurses, not using the ER when its not necessary. All of that.

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BRATISLAVA, April 17 (Xinhua) -- The Slovakian government suspended imports of grain and other agricultural commodities from its neighbor Ukraine on Monday, but kept transit to third countries open, said interim Agriculture Minister Samuel Vlcan.

The decision was made during the government's online meeting, after the recent discovery that 1,500 tons of grain imported from Ukraine had potentially been contaminated by pesticides.

The ban will be effective as of April 19.

Vlcan said the measure would protect the Slovakian agriculture and food sectors, and especially the health of consumers.

The head of the State Veterinary and Food Administration Jozef Bires said at the briefing that his office was checking all imported food and feed from Ukraine that could have been contaminated.

Vlcan noted that no contaminated flour had been produced at the affected mill, since the 1,500 tons of potentially contaminated grain had been immediately locked down.

Aside from concerns over contamination, analysts say that the low price of grain from Ukraine is difficult for Slovakian farmers to compete against.

Ukraine's two other neighboring countries, Poland and Hungary, declared a similar ban over the weekend. This has displeased the European Commission, which reserves the right to determine pan-European business strategies. 
The Warriors had changed sponsors from Puma around that time, and so the massive replica jersey was taken down and was going to be thrown away But Elles old man had some good foresight and wanted to keep it.
Convicted

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IMPHAL, Apr 18 : The Court of Special Judge Fast Track Special Court Number 1 Manipur on Tuesday convicted a 32 year old man for sexually assaulting a minor girl in 2018.

Convict Pangambam Johnson of Yairipok Nongbrang Leikai allegedly outraged the modesty of the young girl on February 2, 2018 inside a Tata Tipper and abandoned the victim the next day at Bishnupur Bazar.

He was convicted under Section 4 of POCSO Act and April 21 was fixed for sentence hearing to announce the quantum of punishment.

The judgment was announced today after it was kept on reserve from March 13. The convict who is presently on bail also appeared before the Court today along with his counsel.

The case was on against P Johnson after a complaint was lodged by the mother of the victim on February 3, 2018.

As per the complainant, her daughter was sexually assaulted repeatedly by the convict on the night of February 2 somewhere in Yairipok.

The convict was arrested by Bishnupur women police on February 4, 2018 while the Special Court POCSO Bishnupur framed charges against the convict under Section 4 of POCSO Act before the case was transferred from Special Court POCSO Bishnupur to Fast Track Special Court Number 1 Manipur. During the trial, 12 prosecution witnesses, 17 exhibits as documents and 11 material objects were submitted to prove the charges levelled against the convict.

The convict, however, didn't produce any witness to claim innocence. Soon after the announcement of the judgment today, the convict was sent to judicial custody at Manipur Central Jail at Sajiwa. The Court directed the Superintendent of Manipur Central Jail Sajiwa to produce the convict before the Court on April 21.
AR man found dead

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MOREH, Apr 18 : A Warrant Officer of 5 Assam Rifles was found dead with a bullet injury mark at T Minou village under Moreh Sub-Division last night.

The deceased has been identified as Sidhartha Sircus.

Reportedly, a gunshot was heard from the post of 5 Assam Rifles side at T Minou village last night.

Other details of the deceased couldn't be confirmed as of yet.

Sidhartha was treated at the medical unit of Assam Rifles and Moreh Hospital but he succumbed to the injury.

Moreh police have registered a case and investigation is on.

The corpse, on the other hand, has been deposited at JNIMS mortuary.
Drama over two resignations Live video footages

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Two resignations, set apart by just a few days, and this has set tongues wagging. One resignation could have been taken as par for the course given that this is a democracy and not all elected members could be expected to be satisfied with how they are accommodated. But two resignations, one coming after the other with just a few days setting them apart, and surely there is ground for tongues to start wagging. Suddenly the focus of the people seems to have shifted from the War on Drugs campaign, the call to conduct a National Register of Citizens (NRC), the eviction drive at Protected and Reserved Forest etc to now the resignation of two prominent MLAs of the BJP from the political posts they were entrusted with and suddenly there is a certain sense of deja vu, a feeling which ran rife during the first stint of the BJP led Government after the 2017 Assembly elections. Add the live video footages that have been released by the two MLAs while resigning from the post they were given and things could not have been as dramatic as the current political situation. Adding grist to the rumour mill is the report that has come in of some MLAs camping at Delhi to meet Central leaders and press for a change in leadership at Imphal. It is not only the two disgruntled MLAs who have taken recourse to the social media to vent their disappointment against the leadership at Imphal, for a status put up by another MLA, obviously in favour of Chief Minister N Biren, has also gone viral on the social media. And if rumours and speculations are doing the round, then it is not surprising to see unconfirmed reports of so and so many MLAs camping at Delhi to spell out their disenchantment against the present leadership at Imphal. The number of MLAs camping at Delhi has been put at anywhere between 5 and 12 with some even going to the extent of proclaiming more resignations are in line along with posts on the social media. What however has emerged clearly in the two video clips put up by Th Radheshyam and Karam Shyam, is the line, Given political appointments but never consulted and never given any responsibility. In other words this means the appointment is only in name and is in a way a sham to hoodwink the people, something they cannot continue to befool the people of their respective Assembly Constituencies. Another prominent point spelt out or alleged by Langthabal AC MLA Karam Shyam in his video clip was the claim that the contract work for setting up a cafeteria near the memorial complex of Maharaj Gambhir Singh at Langthabal was awarded to a relative/friend of the Chief Minister.

This is a serious charge. If the relative part has any substance, then it would go against anti-family politics of the BJP. And if the friend part is true then it would give more muscle to the allegations of the Congress that the BJP has been promoting crony capitalism. The amount for the contract is just Rs 30 lakh, but it is not the amount that is important here, but the question of using political clout to decide who the contract work is awarded to. This is where the seriousness of Karam Shyams allegation lies. How the matter would be settled is something which only time can tell, but it should be more than clear that not everything is right and hereby hangs the question of what is in there for Manipur, particularly at this point of time when so many issues are staring the State and the people in the face. Internal affairs of the BJP is a line that may be used by some, but when voices of discontentment and disappointment are raised, then it is bound to unsettle things which ought to figure high on the priority of the Government and the people. Ironic it is that a party which has 32 MLAs in the House of 60 should be facing its first acid test during its second stint in office not from the Congress or it allies but from some disappointed and slighted BJP MLAs. With so many theories doing the round, the question is, Will there be more resignations from some BJP MLAs in the coming days ?
PARIS, April 18 (Xinhua) -- "If you put aside the pandemic times, aviation in China has been growing at a pace that is faster than in the rest of the world," Guillaume Faury, chief executive officer of European aircraft manufacturer Airbus, said in a recent interview with Xinhua.

China, he said, is a very important strategic partner to Airbus, and its supply chain is an integral part of the world's aviation industry, which has shown great industrial resilience and competitiveness over the past three years.

"What always strikes me in China is the energy, the speed, the optimism and the ability to go fast," he added.

Airbus is currently planning to build a second Final Assembly Line (FAL) to expand the production capacity of the A320 family of passenger aircraft.

"This decision is directly linked to our plan to increase global production of our successful A320 family of passenger aircraft," Faury said. By 2026, Airbus intended to build 75 of these aircraft per month to meet the strong demand of global customers.

The Final Assembly Line Asia in Tianjin, northern China, started operation in 2008. It has already produced over 600 aircraft, representing about 30 percent of China's Airbus A320 fleet.

"In order to support this production ramp-up, we have decided to open a second FAL in Tianjin, relying on the Chinese setup and local ecosystem, which has proved to be successful over the last decade," Faury said.

With the new FAL, which is set to become operational in 2025, Airbus is expecting to double its production capacity in Tianjin and deliver more aircraft to its customers in China and Asia, while supporting the global production increase.

According to Faury, China represents about 20 percent of the world's commercial aviation market. He predicted that over the next 20 years, air traffic in China would grow by about 5.3 percent every year, significantly faster than the world average of 3.6 percent, leading to a demand for more than 8,000 passenger and freighter aircraft between now and 2040.

"I believe Airbus is well-placed to capture that demand," he said, highlighting Airbus' single-aisle A320, and the wide-body aircraft A330neo and A350 for long-haul flights to connect China with the rest of the world.

Turning to freighter aircraft, Faury noted that the demand for cargo has been boosted by e-commerce and global trade growth, and this will definitely translate into a strong increase of the fleet of freighter aircraft operated in China.

During their most recent visit to China, Airbus executives signed a new agreement with the China National Aviation Fuel Group Corporation (CNAF) on intensifying cooperation in the production and development of common standards for SAFs (sustainable aviation fuel).

Faury said he believes that this will develop the SAF supply chain by boosting local production of SAF towards the ambition of using 10 percent SAF by 2030.

"We are also looking at other levers that will help us decarbonize aviation, and one of them is the development of hydrogen-powered planes." Faury said that Airbus aims to bring to service the first hydrogen-powered commercial aircraft by 2035.

He told Xinhua that a new research center was inaugurated in Suzhou in east China's Jiangsu Province, which will focus on research related to the future hydrogen infrastructure for aviation, as well as advanced manufacturing, electrification and future cabins.

"Airbus is committed to supporting our sector's ambition to reach net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050," he said, adding that as a proponent of multilateralism and free trade, Airbus is an advocate of win-win cooperation. 
Bruce Mackenzie says Stoney Creeks Vinemount Swamp, which has a 1.9-kilometre boardwalk running through the citys biggest intact escarpment forest, is among a wealth of publicly accessible wetlands in Hamilton.



Bruce Mackenzie says he applauds the creation of the first of four planned wetlands at upper Stoney Creeks sprawling Saltfleet Conservation Area, part of efforts to reduce creek flooding below the escarpment during big rainstorms.

But as an longtime naturalist who has helped restore wetlands  including at a former sewage lagoon to the east of Fifty Point  he says it would be far better if the Hamilton Conservation Authority didnt have to try to replicate what nature already does so well.

Wetlands have a tremendous value to the earth, the environment and also to people, says Mackenzie, who studied biology in university and went on to work for the authority for 39 years before retiring in 2015.

Theyre the purifier of water. Theyre also the holder of water, he says, likening wetlands to giant sponges that not only prevent flooding, but also replenish groundwater.

If theyre replaced with pavement and/or roofs, (without) that giant sponge, which houses a multitude of life forms, that water is going to run off extremely quickly.

Mackenzie says those natural functions only make it possible to create a slight facsimile if a wetland is replicated, as a developer hopes to do by the headwaters to Ancaster Creek.

The plan, opposed by the conservation authority and headed to an Ontario Land Tribunal hearing this fall, would bulldoze a marsh to make way for a warehouse and dig a new wetland near the propertys boundary.

You can create a low wet area that life will move into over time, but you cant move the frogs, you cant move the snakes, and you cant move the fungi and all the organic materials, Mackenzie says.

These are organic materials that are in the bottom of the marsh. Theyve accumulated over a long, long time and they have sorted themselves out in a way we cant replicate. Only time can do that.

The threat to wetlands posed by recent provincial regulatory changes prompted the Iroquoia Bruce Trail Club to focus on the issue for Earth Week, including at an April 18 forum at McMaster Innovation Park, with Mackenzie among three guest speakers.

Bruce Trail Conservancy chief executive officer Michael McDonald calls wetlands ecological powerhouses.

Anything we can do to protect them and even restore them is incredibly important, McDonald says, including for threatened or endangered species living there.

Its also critical for mitigating what were trying to do with climate change. Wetlands store carbon, he says. Theyre just incredibly rich ecosystems.

Conservation authority deputy chief administrative officer Scott Peck says the provinces More Homes Built Faster Act will make it harder to protect wetlands because of changes to how they are evaluated.

The presence of at-risk species, for instance, will no longer count toward whether a wetland is considered provincially significant, while wetlands will be considered individually even if they are part of a complex of wetlands, he says.

Peck says existing designations remain in place until wetlands are re-evaluated, but the bar for protection is now higher, including for the threatened Ancaster wetland, which hadnt been evaluated, but is locally significant.

If a wetland doesnt score as a provincially significant wetland, it just opens it up to the potential to develop that wetland or to alter that wetland in some way, he says.

Peck shares Mackenzies view that its better to preserve than recreate wetlands. Its also cheaper.

The two-pond Saltfleet wetland cost $2 million to build, with land acquisition doubling that bill, he says.

Peck says its already attracting a variety of species, including American toads, small fish, Canada geese and mallard and bufflehead ducks, and thats before wetland vegetation has grown in to provide food and habitat.

But he says the value of the Saltfleet and other wetlands goes beyond important ecological functions: Without our natural areas, it would be a sadder place to live.

STORY BEHIND THE STORY: We saw that Iroquoia Bruce Trail Club was focusing Earth Week events on wetlands and wanted to learn more.

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Sandro De Oliveira was at Gerry Lawrences apartment the day he died. He did two runs to buy and sell drugs, pulled a piece of prosciutto out of the choking 76-year-olds mouth and cleaned him up in the bathroom after he soiled himself, the accused testified in court Monday.

But he didnt kill Lawrence, he said.

De Oliveira is on trial for second-degree murder. He was arrested on Sept. 30, 2020, just over a year after Lawrence was found dead in his Queenston Road East apartment.

Selections from an interview with police on the day of De Oliveiras arrest were played in court Monday.

During cross-examination, assistant Crown attorney Mark Dean suggested the reason De Oliveira told such an outlandish and bizarre tale is he was worried his DNA would be found in the apartment and needed an explanation.

No, Im not worried about my DNA, De Oliveira replied.

Dean suggested to De Oliveira he killed Lawrence and cleaned up in the bathroom, inventing a nonsense story as a coverup.

I didnt commit no murder, De Oliveira said.

Lawrence was found stabbed to death in his third-floor apartment at 555 Queenston Rd. E. around 10 p.m. on Sept. 29, 2019.

De Oliveira testified on examination in chief hed known Lawrence, who he met through his second wife Andrea Dino, for about a year and a half before his death. He regularly sold him pills, including Percocet, prescribed to him for a back injury.

Lawrence would sometimes take the couple for meals and had once lent them $250 for a hotel room, which De Oliveira testified hed paid back.

At the time of Lawrences death, De Oliveira was living in shelters and using crack cocaine, the accused testified. Other than selling prescription drugs, De Oliveira relied on ODSP and casual cash jobs to support himself.

De Oliveira told the court Lawrence and a friend hed never met had appeared during De Oliveiras lunch break the Friday before Lawrence was killed wanting to talk. Hungry and in a rush, De Oliveira made plans to instead visit Lawrence at his apartment on Sunday.

The accused tried to call Lawrence on Sunday, but the calls didnt go through, he testified. When he showed up at the apartment, Lawrence and the same friend were there, and asked him to do a couple of drug runs for cash.

Surveillance camera footage from the Queenston Road apartment shown in court show De Oliveira entering and exiting the building several times on the afternoon of Sept. 29.

When he returned to the apartment after making the deals, Lawrence choked, and De Oliveira pulled a piece of prosciutto out of his mouth, the accused testified. Sometime after, Lawrence pooed his pants, De Oliveira said. The accused said he found a yellow glove underneath the bathroom sink, and helped clean up Lawrence, who was in the bathtub.

De Oliveira then put on the pants he had in his backpack to keep warm, and left the apartment, he said. That was the last time he saw Lawrence, he testified.

The Crown on cross-examination suggested De Oliveira used a pair of Lawrence's pants to hide his bloodstained shorts, which he denied.

De Oliveira testified he didnt know how Lawrence had been killed until a year after his death.

Did you know that Gerry had been stabbed? defence lawyer Ashley Audet asked her client. No, he responded from the witness stand.

When did you learn that Gerry had been stabbed?

The day I got arrested, he replied.

Audet asked De Oliveira what he said to police when he was arrested on Sept. 30, 2020.

I didnt kill nobody, he said.

The Crown pointed to instances where what De Oliveira told police didnt match his testimony in court. De Oliveira said he was mistaken about some details in his police interview. De Oliveira also said he omitted information to avoid being a snitch.

Im not going to rat ... on anybody, De Oliveira said.

The Crown suggested De Oliveira went to Lawrence's apartment not to talk, but to sell pills for drug money and, when his calls to Lawrence went unanswered the accused lost control, killed him and stole his money, wallet, pills and cellphone.

Wrong, De Oliveira replied.

The trial continues Tuesday.

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With some exceptions, masks will no longer be required for patients or visitors at Hamilton Health Sciences and St. Josephs Healthcare hospitals starting April 19.

The change in policy was announced in a news release from the health-care organizations April 17. The release also said everyone is encouraged to wear a mask while in waiting rooms and in emergency departments and urgent care centres, and patients with a fever or respiratory symptoms will be required to wear a mask. In addition, health-care workers will be required to wear a mask during patient care interactions.

Ending universal mandatory masking is an interim measure, said the release, and follows Public Health Ontario declaring the province in a non-high risk period of the COVID-19 pandemic. It is also meant to align local health care with other hospitals.

The release said universal masking will be subject to ongoing evaluation ... and will be revisited if needed.

Reach The Spectator newsroom at 905-526-3420 or news@thespec.com

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A major rail association has cancelled a safety warning for hundreds of locally made train cars  spurring National Steel Car to declare itself completely exonerated in an ongoing U.S. derailment probe.

Norfolk Southern, a U.S. railroad under investigation for several high-profile derailments, alleged in March it had found an urgent safety issue with loose wheels on Hamilton-made train cars that went off the rails in Springfield, Ohio.

That spurred the American Association of Railroads to issue a North America-wide advisory to stop using certain types of rail cars with wheel sets mounted by National Steel Car.

The U.S. National Transportation Safety Board also started a specific investigation into the safety performance of the wheels that is ongoing and could continue for months, a spokesperson said Monday.

But last week, the railroad trade association cancelled its warning advisory after further study indicated the wheel sets are not the safety challenge originally considered.

That means the association is no longer telling members to pull rail cars off the tracks or replace the wheel sets.

In a statement Monday, National Steel Car noted it did not agree with the original safety advisory but started collecting data about the 675 affected rail cars for review because of its concern for safe railroad operations.

Company head Gregory Aziz said in the statement overwhelming data show mounting requirements for the rail cars were met and that the report of loose wheels was misleading.

Norfolk Southern did not respond to questions about the issue Monday.

National Steel Car also pointed Monday to a separate advisory issued this month by the U.S. Federal Railroad Administration about a spate of recent derailments.

In the advisory, that agency appears to attribute the Springfield, Ohio incident primarily to train car placement and loading. It does not mention loose wheels as a factor in the derailment.

Aziz argued the evidence compiled to date completely exonerates National Steel Car in the Springfield derailment.

The railroad association said Monday it stands by the decision to issue the original safety advisory based on the information available at the time.

National Steel Car has not responded to questions about whether the advisory caused delays or problems for the manufacturer.

But one of its major customers, Canadian National, previously told The Spectator the affected rail cars had been put under embargo on its network.

CN confirmed Monday that embargo had been lifted.

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A 65-year-old man is facing a careless driving charge after a crash that took out a hydro pole on Fennell Avenue East, causing just over 800 homes to lose power for hours overnight and into Tuesday morning.

The outage affected the area of Fennell, Upper Gage Avenue and Mountain Brow Boulevard and lasted more than 15 hours. Alectra Utilities said on Twitter that power was restored around 8 a.m. However, lights remained out in some spots and crews continued to work in the area.

The last remaining transformer was energized by 10:20 a.m., said Alectra spokesperson Ashley Trgachef. Traffic lights were confirmed to be working.

Emergency services were called to Fennell and East 45th Street shortly after 5 p.m. Monday after the driver of a westbound Dodge Journey SUV lost control, crossed four lanes of traffic, and hit a hydro pole and a parked vehicle, said Hamilton police Const. Indy Bharaj.

The driver, a 65-year-old man, suffered minor injuries and was charged with careless driving.

The power outage affected traffic signals in the area, so police remained on scene overnight and into the morning assisting with traffic.

Nicole OReilly is a crime and justice reporter at The Spectator. noreilly@thespec.com

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Every morning, Kate Kileen could count on being greeted by the sight of her dogs eyes peeking above her bed.

Bain, a friendly French mastiff with a wrinkled face and light brown coat, was always by her side.

Until one day last month, when Kileens best friend was missing from his usual spot.

He just seemed a little lethargic, said Kileen, who noticed Bain looked very off when she let her three dogs into the backyard of their Waterford home on March 16.

Bain soon began panting uncontrollably, Kileen recalled. His tongue was dry and grey, and he was unable to keep his balance.

Then he lost bladder control and starting spewing blood.

Bain, a two year-old French mastiff inWaterford died in March after ingesting poison, police say. Ontario Provincial Police

The couple rushed Bain to the closest veterinary hospital, in Simcoe, with Kileens partner, Cris Williams, performing CPR in the back seat.

He was dead before he got there, Williams said, fighting back tears at the memory.

An autopsy confirmed the couples gentle and loving dog had been killed by what police described as a large amount of slow-acting rat poison.

The veterinarian told Kileen and Williams the poison would have taken up to five days to work its way through Bains system, as he weighed about 125 pounds.

The vet said by the time we woke up that morning and he was showing symptoms, it was already too late, Williams said.

I have nightmares to this day about my dog and what I couldve done to save him. I tried so hard.

Further tests revealed the familys other two mastiffs  Bains father, Chaos, and his sister, Cleo  also had traces of the poison in their systems.

They have since recovered, Kileen said.

The OPPs animal cruelty investigation is ongoing, with a working theory that the poison was thrown into the familys spacious backyard, which is enclosed by a fence and cedar trees on each side. If it was in the yard, none was left after the dogs ingested it.

I know the dogs werent off the property in that (five-day) time frame. So it had to be at our house, Williams said.

He called police after spotting footprints in the snow near the fence and tree branches broken in multiple spots, as if someone had pushed through the cedars to the far corner of their property.

I believe it was our dogs (that were) targeted, said Williams.

If they were targeted, it is unclear who is responsible.

However, the couple says they have been the recipient of numerous bylaw complaints about their dogs and the state of their Bruce Street property since moving to Waterford from Hamilton last summer.

Save for having to relocate a trailer, Kileen said all the complaints were dismissed as unfounded once inspectors came to the house and met their dogs.

The heartbroken owners of Bain, a French mastiff, are looking for help from the public to find the person who poisoned their dog. Ontario Provincial Police

Norfolk County bylaw supervisor Jim Millson expressed his condolences for the familys loss, but told The Spectator it is department policy not to comment publicly on specific investigations, citing privacy concerns.

Kileen described how the couples social media posts about Bains death prompted private messages from residents in Waterford and elsewhere in Norfolk describing how their family pets were allegedly also poisoned.

The people that reached out to us privately, the police cant use that. Coming from us, its hearsay, Williams said.

So were now pleading with those people who were so compassionate to us to now be compassionate again and reach out to the police, or Crime Stoppers anonymously.

OPP Const. Ed Sanchuk echoed that call, asking anyone with information about Bains death to have that courage to pick up that phone and contact police.

We want to try and bring some type of resolution to the family, he said.

Tips can be left with the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or online at helpsolvecrime.com.

Kileen said the death of her trusting, sociable pup has left her family afraid to be in their own home.

I never thought something like this would happen out here, said Kileen, who used to let her four kids roam around their fenced-in yard as long as the dogs were out, but now cannot bear to have her toddler out of sight.

My kids play out here every day. Whos to say that my two-year-old didnt pick something up? she said of a horrible situation that could have been even worse had her daughter found the poison.

They have since installed a security camera pointed at the section of fence where Williams noticed the footprints.

I fall asleep on the couch every night watching the new camera, Williams said. I dont understand what my family or my dogs did to deserve this.

As for Kileen, she still cannot accept that her morning greeter is gone.

It took me a while just to sleep in my own room, because he wasnt there, she said.

J.P. Antonacci s reporting on Haldimand and Norfolk is funded by the Canadian government through its Local Journalism Initiative. jpantonacci@thespec.com

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Ross Biancale sits in front of his birthday cake and smiles for the camera.

He wears a pair of oversized glasses with orange-tinted lenses, a fur hat with long flaps over his ears.

The unconventional attire is just another sign to his family hes unwell.

But its a happy moment, especially in light of his struggles with schizophrenia and addiction.

We sang to him and blew out his candles, mom Elizabeth Biancale recalls.

In the fog of illness, Ross hadnt been to his familys Brant County home for a birthday in years.

It was so nice to have him here, sitting there with his brothers, Elizabeth says.

That Nov. 20 was to be Rosss last birthday.

Less than two weeks later, he died of a suspected drug overdose in a small apartment in Hamilton. He was 32.

It haunts me  that picture, Elizabeth says about the birthday photograph that forms part of a memorial in her home.

If I would have known, I would have hugged him harder that day.

Ross died at the vortex of overlapping crises  homelessness, mental illness, a toxic drug supply  fuelled by a lack of resources and failed policy, say experts from various fields that care for societys most fragile.

Sadly, that is too common a story across the care of people with serious mental illness in our community, said Dr. Sandy Simpson, chief of forensic psychiatry at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH).

Its a lack of seriousness by government to understand the nature and complexity of needs of people, and support them adequately in terms of community mental-health teams, financial support and housing and continuity of care.

And a dire local landscape  people living in tents, packed shelters, rampant overdoses  has spurred Hamilton city council to declare emergencies relating to homelessness, mental health and opioids with the hope of galvanizing provincial action.

Though devastating, Rosss tragic demise wasnt entirely unexpected to Elizabeth.

In late 2017, she all but predicted her sons grinding cycle of wandering the streets, slipping in and out of treatment, and doing time behind bars would kill him one day.

Ive already written his obituary, she told The Spectator at the time.

If I couldnt save my son ...

Elizabeth offered that agonizing admission in a downtown fast-food restaurant after picking up Ross from a shelter.

His black, curly hair was long and his beard unkempt. His hand was badly infected and swollen.

Ross explained that foreign actors were tapping into his vision to monitor his movements. But he didnt believe he was mentally ill.

Theyre seeing through my eyes.

Despite that outlook, coupled with a suspicion of health care, Ross held out hope to get back on his feet again.

In fact, he never got rid of the pair of steel-toed boots hed worn as a welder  a promising career upon which hed embarked before he became ill.

Ross Biancale "held onto those welding boots no matter what condition he was in because he felt like one day, 'I'm going to be back to that person.'" He died at 32. Barry Gray/The Hamilton Spectator

It just takes time. I gotta put myself out there.

A clean-cut graduate of Ancaster High and Fleming College, he earned $40 an hour in Cambridge. He had an active social life and girlfriend.

But starting in his early 20s, paranoia and erratic behaviour started to derail his life. He lost his apartment, his relationship, his job.

Meanwhile, homelessness and run-ins with the law erased any semblance of normalcy.

Minor thefts escalated to bizarre incidents, such as climbing a 250-foot crane at a downtown Hamilton construction site.

Now, reeling from her sons death, Elizabeth says she lost him in spite of her dogged efforts to advocate for his well-being, whether in the courtroom or the psychiatric ward.

If I would have known, I would have hugged him harder that day. Elizabeth Biancale Ross's mother

But all that energy  while caring for four younger boys and running a dog-breeding business  was expended on a revolving door of incarceration, hospitalization and homelessness.

Ultimately, Elizabeth couldnt sidestep the pitfalls: the subpar housing; the courts that sent him to jail instead of care; her limited ability to make her son adhere to treatment.

I just know that if I couldnt save my son, theres nobody that can save their son.

From scratch

In the depths of his illness, Ross wouldnt stay with his mom.

For a time, as well, with younger siblings at home, child protective services wouldnt allow it, Elizabeth says.

But she tried to keep him off the streets, which was no easy feat with landlords reluctant to rent to mentally ill people on social assistance.

When Ross had a roof over his head, it didnt last that long and ended in catastrophe.

In late 2019, for instance, he was one of 19 people displaced from a troubled lodging home the city had ordered to close.

Backed into a corner, Elizabeth paid for Ross and other vulnerable ex-residents to stay in a motel before finding him another place to live.

And once, after a stint in jail, he returned alone to an apartment hed shared with another mentally ill person only to find himself on the street in his underwear as flames shot out the window because of a fire.

Later in hospital, Ross claimed someone else had been in the unit and started the blaze, which wasnt the case, Elizabeth recalls.

Elizabeth Biancale couldn't save her son from subpar housing, the courts that sent him to jail instead of care, and her limited ability to make her son adhere to treatment. Barry Gray/The Hamilton Spectator

Her son, in a spiral after not taking his medication while in jail, had set the fire and sat there in a daze as smoke filled the apartment.

The neighbours had to bang on his door for him to come out. He would have died in that apartment.

Meanwhile, Ross, his belongings torched, had burned through another landlord.

So we had to start all over from scratch, Elizabeth says.

Theres not enough affordable housing with connected health and social services to help keep people with complex challenges stable and off the street, experts point out.

Housing is huge, says Sue Phipps, chief executive officer of the local Canadian Mental Health Association branch.

If youre focused solely on surviving, youre not thinking about your health. If youre looking for a place to stay every night, youre not able to focus on improving your health or well-being.

As it stands, 689 households are in the queue for supportive units through Hamiltons centralized waiting list for affordable housing, with more applicants to be consolidated to the hub this summer, the city says.

In particular, a gaping hole is housing with the highest tier of supports  daily, 24-hour, wraparound services  for those with the most acute needs. About 200 in Hamilton could use that kind of housing, the city says.

That shortfall has been in spotlight at city hall, where in addition to councils emergency declarations, staff have drafted a multimillion-dollar blueprint to end chronic homelessness by 2025 but flagged scant municipal funds to carry it out.

I just know that if I couldnt save my son, theres nobody that can save their son. Elizabeth Biancale Ross's mother

We are missing a number of pieces of the puzzle, but permanent housing with an enhanced level of supports definitely is missing, says Graham Cubitt of Indwell, a local non-profit that operates deeply affordable and supportive housing.

But Indwells 15-unit Railway City Lofts in St. Thomas, Ont., which has housed people directly from encampments after long periods of homelessness, is an example of what can be done.

And all are achieving tremendous stability because the supports are tailored to people; the whole housing model is tailored to those tenants.

The lofts were a co-operative effort between Indwell, the city and the hospital system that allowed for the crucial merging of housing and health funding, envelopes typically separated in bureaucratic silos.

Are solutions possible? Absolutely. We just need to link the resources, new housing and new support models together to create what we need as a community.

Underfunded but dynamite

During his illness, Ross faced a gauntlet of systemic obstacles. And so did his mom.

Elizabeth Biancale and her son Ross. Barry Gray/The Hamilton Spectator

Just convincing those in positions of authority that her adult son was desperately ill and didnt belong in jail was challenging, Elizabeth says.

She notes her frustration at not being able to exercise more influence over her sons treatment under Ontario law.

I just wanted help, but I went years before anybody would listen to me because he was over 18.

Despite the setbacks, an underfunded but dynamite multidisciplinary group of caring professionals rallied around Ross, she says.

Among its tasks, the assertive community treatment (ACT) team made sure he received regular injections of medication under the auspices of a community treatment order (CTO).

A CTO is a doctor-issued order designed to help those who are frequently sent to psychiatric facilities adhere to care and treatment in the community.

A patient or substitute decision-maker agrees to the CTO, which serves as an alternative to hospital detention.

St. Josephs Healthcare Hamilton has four ACT teams in the area. Each supports roughly 80 to 90 people. Two teams are dedicated to Hamilton proper.

They generally have eight or nine full-time staff, including a psychiatrist, social worker, registered nurses, occupational therapists and community support counsellors, a hospital spokesperson noted.

They collaborate with housing services, pharmacies, primary care providers, correctional services and a variety of city programs.

ACT teams are very good at staying connected to patients, said Dr. Gary Chaimowitz, head of the forensic psychiatry program at St. Josephs West 5th campus. They provide very, very strong wraparound care.

But there are not enough of them, Chaimowitz said.

In fact, the wait for an eligibility assessment alone for ACT services in Hamilton, Haldimand, Niagara and Brant is 45 days.

Elizabeth Biancale keeps her son Ross' ashes in a box in her home. He died at age 32 of an apparent overdose. Barry Gray/The Hamilton Spectator

For actual care, its 374 days, according to Connex Ontario, a provincially funded agency that tracks wait times and provides information about mental-health services.

CTOs have proven to be an effective approach, notes Phipps, of the Canadian Mental Health Association. But their success relies on adequate human resources in a sector thats stretched.

The mental-health system is just so fractured, says Erin Boudreau, director of operations for the Institute for Advancements in Mental Health.

There arent enough psychiatrists and other health-care professionals to offer treatment, such as cognitive behavioural therapy for psychosis, to keep people from spiralling into crisis, Boudreau says.

There are not enough early-intervention supports available to, in theory, prevent people from this severe state in the first place.

Meanwhile, caregivers make sacrifices to fill in the gaps, Boudreau said.

Theres an impact to well-being, to the economy, to their mental health, to their loved ones mental health.

The nicest place

After the blaze, Elizabeth and Ross didnt give up.

In crisis, he waited three weeks in St. Josephs emergency ward before a bed opened up at its West 5th psychiatric facility.

Is it the hospitals fault? No, its that were overwhelmed with mentally ill people, Elizabeth says.

But once he was at West 5th, she wished  reluctantly  that Ross could be placed in the forensic unit, hoping for a stricter regimen.

He needed forced intervention, says Elizabeth, noting despite the ACT teams best efforts, it wasnt enough at times.

Under certain circumstances, Ontario law allows for periods of involuntary admittance to psychiatric facilities but makes no provisions for forced treatment at hospitals.

The forensic unit is designed for people who are unfit to stand trial, or found to be not criminally responsible, St. Josephs Chaimowitz noted.

The rules are the same. If somebody is refusing treatment and theyre capable, they can still refuse treatment.

But Chaimowitz acknowledges the frustration family members can feel.

Its really hard when that person in front of you is not looking for treatment, because you may know what is required.

Elizabeth, meanwhile, recognizes how mental-health legislation aims to balance individual freedoms and a persons well-being.

I wanted to give my son choices, too, but I think that you have to look at the person and individual and say, I dont think we can give this person choices right now.

Ross Biancale had a promising future as a welder until his life collapsed due to addictions and mental-health issues. He couldn't get the help he needed. Barry Gray/The Hamilton Spectator

After the fire and an extended stay at West 5th, Ross landed affordable, supportive housing that offered him stability like never before.

It was the nicest place hes ever been, Elizabeth says.

The Indwell apartment in Hamilton was small but clean. It had a new stove and fridge. And there he had the attention and understanding of trained staff.

At his request, they changed his locks more than once to ease his paranoia, or brought food to his apartment if he couldnt eat with others in the cafeteria.

He said there were people coming through the ceiling, Elizabeth recalls, so staff took him to the floor above to convince him otherwise.

But it wouldnt all be smooth sailing.

Ross, who didnt like the injections, convinced his ACT caregivers to switch him to tablets administered at his door. They figured he later spat them out.

There are not enough early-intervention supports available to, in theory, prevent people from this severe state in the first place. Erin Boudreau Director of operations for the Institute for Advancements in Mental Health

Not on his medication, Rosss health took a nosedive. One day, he just left.

And Im shaking my head, Here we go again, Elizabeth recalls. Because this has happened many times with him.

Around and around

A month later, police picked up a man walking on the side of the QEW.

And they see that its Ross, Elizabeth says.

Off his medication, hes in rough shape. Hes admitted to West 5th.

At St. Josephs, hes given an injection and discharged  too soon, Elizabeth contends.

Shed wanted her son to stay longer to allow the medication to kick in.

So he goes, he leaves. Now weve got a person whos crazy ... like literally out of his mind.

That was frustrating enough, but Elizabeth, despite being her sons substitute decision-maker, also says the hospital didnt tell her hed been discharged in the first place.

They didnt even call me.

St. Josephs believes family members should be actively involved in the care of their loved ones, especially if theyre substitute decision-makers, Chaimowitz said.

It is one of the quality indicators that we focus on, he added, noting he couldnt speak of what might have happened in Rosss case.

That discharge set off a fateful chain of events that would ultimately lead to his longest and last stay behind bars.

Back at Indwell, Ross became embroiled in a dispute with a woman he didnt want in his apartment. He ended up pushing her.

She cracks her head on the table and hes arrested, Elizabeth recounts.

Rosss violent outburst was wrong, but he should have been placed in hospital care, she says.

Instead, he was sentenced to 10 months in Penetanguishene, where his community treatment order (CTO) no longer applied.

So in jail, he sits there and gets more sick. Its just a cycle that goes around and around in a circle.

Incarceration can sometimes do things that are good and sometimes do things that are bad, says Simpson from CAMH.

For some, it can mean cutting access to drugs and open the door to treatment, leading to better health, Simpson notes.

But jail can also dislocate people from housing, mental-health contacts and social assistance, he adds.

So when they come out again, theyre starting from scratch to try and re-establish that life that was precarious beforehand.

Health advocates, meanwhile, contend mental health in Ontario jails should fall under the auspices of the Ministry of Health rather than the Ministry of the Solicitor General to ensure better care.

So youre getting the same quality of care on the inside as you are on the outside, said Boudreau of the Institute for Advancements in Mental Health.

In an email, a spokesperson for the Ministry of the Solicitor General said the province is investing more than $500 million over five years to transform correctional services through new hires and infrastructure improvements.

So in jail, he sits there and gets more sick. Its just a cycle that goes around and around in a circle. Elizabeth Biancale Ross's mother

All inmates have access to a variety of services and supports including mental-health nurses, physicians, psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers and addiction counsellors regardless of a diagnosis of a specific mental illness, Andrew Morrison wrote.

Correctional services staff are trained to recognize possible signs of mental illness and know how to refer these inmates to health care or other professional staff who can provide the inmate with the appropriate level of care.

The Solicitor General, which also partners with the Ministry of Health, has increased the number of acute care stabilization beds at forensic mental-health hospitals, including at St. Josephs in Hamilton.

If those with mental health and addiction challenges wind up in jail, it should be a golden opportunity to offer help, Dr. Lori Regenstreif says.

Theyre usually in chaotic settings. They may be in tents. Theyre committing crimes related to substances or just for survival, said Regenstreif, who has a focus on opioid treatment programs in correctional settings.

They shouldnt be in jail, but if youre going to lock them up somewhere, nows your chance to help.

Ross Biancales mother predicted his death  unable to get him the help he needed to survive his mental health issues and addictions. This picture, taken on his last birthday, haunts her. Barry Gray/The Hamilton Spectator

But the gap  especially with relatively short stays during which its tricky to anchor people in programs  is in the continuity in and the continuity out, Regenstreif points out.

This is crucial given that opioid users who abstain while in jail are particularly vulnerable to overdose during the first few weeks of their release when their tolerance is lower.

Theres a heightened risk of accidental overdose at that point, and thats a well-recognized phenomenon, Simpson noted.

Bells went off

After Penetanguishene, Ross made it back to Hamilton.

Elizabeth helped him pay for a room at the same motel shed lined up after the lodging home closure set him adrift in 2019.

But at about $3,000 a month, the bill was running too high.

So I finally found this dump, Elizabeth recalls.

For $900 a month, the room in the small multiplex on King Street West offered a bathroom, hot plate, little fridge and sink.

He moved in Oct. 15.

Ross seemed to make friends there and asked his mom to help out an impoverished fellow tenant.

He made me go out and buy him a coat and shoes at Value Village, Elizabeth says.

But she only realized after Ross moved in that the residence was like a trap house, she says. There were tons and tons of drugs.

Before Penetanguishene, Ross had used crystal meth, which is a stimulant, but not opioids, like fentanyl, which has driven the overdose crisis.

Elizabeth speculates her son turned to that after taking methadone, an opioid used to treat addiction to powerful street drugs, while in jail.

And despite signs that Ross had regained his footing, in hindsight, his mom noticed a sluggishness in his demeanour.

I would pick him up and hed be almost like a robot.

After the birthday gathering, the next time she saw Ross was Nov. 23, when she took him for a root canal and groceries in Stoney Creek.

We were starting to work on his teeth. He was actually allowing me. I hadnt been able to bring him to a dentist in years.

But optimism gave way to concern when Ross stopped responding to her messages to send money to pay the rent. He hadnt withdrawn anything from his account after his disability payment was deposited, either.

And thats when my bells went off, Elizabeth says.

So on Dec. 2, her husband, Archie, and Rosss ACT team social worker unlocked Rosss apartment door using a spare key.

They found him slumped forward in a turtle position. There were needles, and whats believed to be fentanyl and crystal meth in the small room.

Police suspected hed died of an overdose three days earlier, Elizabeth says.

Theyre telling me that he just went down ... and that kind of gave me a little comfort.

But questions about his last moments of life continue to nag her.

Could someone  maybe another tenant  have called emergency services earlier to flag something was wrong?

Meanwhile, contact with police and the coroners office, which is still conducting the death investigation, has been wanting, Elizabeth says.

No one called me. They just look at the place hes in. They look at his record. Look at this guy, she says. Thats always the way hes been treated.

And to make matters worse, after Rosss death, someone kicked in the door of his unit to plunder the place.

That drew Elizabeth there sooner than shed planned to salvage what was left behind.

On his little shelf in his room, he had his birthday cards and his candles set up like a little shrine for this birthday that we just had. That broke my heart.

Elizabeth Biancale sits a a memorial to her son Ross, who died at age 32. His work boots, the ones he wore while welding and kept throughout his struggles, sit on a wooden bench adorned with a plaque. Barry Gray/The Hamilton Spectator

At home in Brant County, she has set up memorials to Ross  a chest he had in his room, trinkets, clothes, his oversized glasses, his ashes, that haunting photograph.

His work boots, the ones he wore while welding and kept throughout his struggles, sit on a wooden bench adorned with a plaque.

He held onto those welding boots no matter what condition he was in because he felt like one day, Im going to be back to that person.

Deep down, he knew something was wrong with him, and he aspired to patch his life back together, Elizabeth reflects.

But then it would not happen.

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Two Canadian women and three teenage girls are missing somewhere in northeast Syria, after an attempt by the Canadian government to repatriate them earlier this month failed.

In an audio recording obtained by the Star, a Global Affairs Canada consular official tells the mother of one of the women that she is devastated by their disappearance.

This has happened to other countries, and they tried to warn us, and when it did actually happen  were kind of shocked by it, the senior consular official said in the April 11 call.

We didnt think it was an actual possibility.

What actually did happen on April 2  the last time anyone in Canada had contact with the women  is unclear.

Their families believe that instead of being handed over to Canadian officials to be flown home along with four other Canadian women and 10 children, they were instead taken by Kurdish officials to a facility other female captives refer to as the Red Prison.

The Canadian consular official told one womans mother they were looking into this report. We have never heard of it before. And so, were kind of at a loss as to what the prison is. And if they are indeed there, she said.

Global Affairs Canada would not comment, writing in an email that they politely declined the Stars request for any interviews with consular officials involved in the case, or with a department spokesperson.

The women are sisters-in-law from Edmonton who left Canada to join the Islamic State terrorist group in 2014. One of the women brought her three young daughters, who are now 13, 15 and 16. When the group, also known as ISIS or Daesh, lost its last battle to the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces in 2019, the women were captured and taken to the sprawling detention camps administered by the Kurdish forces in whats known as the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria, or AANES.

Edmonton lawyer Zachary Al-Khatib said the husband of one of the women (who is the brother of the other woman) had called home before that last battle in the Syrian city of Baghouz, saying they wanted to return to Canada, but were unable to find a way. He, too, was captured and remains in Kurdish custody.

Earlier this year, a Canadian Federal Court judge ordered Ottawa to repatriate all its citizens held in these camps.

Al-Khatib, who represents the missing women, said he was told by Global Affairs officials that both the women, aged 41 and 33, may be arrested upon return to Canada and the grandmother of the three girls would assume their custody. That was the fate of three other Canadian women who were successfully repatriated earlier this month and arrested on terrorism peace bonds. Days later, they were released on bail with conditions, until their bond applications could be heard in court. A fourth woman was not charged.

But the women in those cases were held in al-Roj camp, while the now-missing Canadian women and girls were in al-Hol, a much more dangerous and inaccessible camp. Medecins Sans Frontieres recently described the camp as a legal black hole, conducive to patterns of violence and exploitation, where criminal activities are treated with impunity.

Al-Khatib said he talked to his clients before they presented themselves to the Kurdish guards for transfer to al-Roj  as instructed by the Canadian government  and that they were terrified, but willing to take the risk to return to Canada.

What I was told by Global Affairs, Al-Khatib said he told the women, was that the Canadian government has told the Kurds to transport you to al-Roj, but you have to ask for it. You actually have to say we want to be transported; otherwise theyre not going to do it of their own initiative.

While the RCMP was reportedly on the ground at the time, the consular official told the womans mother that the federal police force had nothing to do with the repatriation and what theyre doing on the ground is their own mandate.

The Canadian women said they had planned to turn their phones over to other female captives in the camp before leaving their tents, because they knew they would be confiscated. According to texts from captives still in the camp, seen by the Star, at least one woman reportedly accompanied the Canadians to the gate to witness the transfer.

Back in Canada, their families waited for a call to go to the airport to pick up the three teenage girls. Instead, they started getting messages from women at al-Hol, saying the five had not been transported to Canadian officials, but had instead been put in a Humvee and taken to a prison by the guards.

We were under the impression they were on the plane to Canada, and the first we heard otherwise was when I got a frantic call from one of the womens moms saying, This is what Im hearing. Can you confirm whats going on? Al-Khatib said.

The case underscores the humanitarian and security issues posed by these camps, where there are still tens of thousands of captives from more than 60 countries. At al-Hol alone, 90 per cent are women and children, with an estimated 40,000 children under age 12.

According to the United Nations, at least 42 people were killed at al-Hol last year, including two 15-year-old Egyptian girls whose bodies were found in November in a sewage ditch, with multiple stab wounds. The United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights reported that, a few days earlier, the girls had been raped and a group of radicalized women in the camp then reportedly harassed the girls and their mother because of the stigma associated with being subjected to sexual violence.

Canada has been condemned internationally as lagging behind other countries in bringing its citizens back to face justice at home or protecting the rights of detained children.

Aside from human rights concern, theres also the dire security risk these camps pose as remnants of the Islamic State terror group try to rebuild inside the camps and in the surrounding regions.

Last summer, the Syrian Democratic Forces, with the backing of U.S. forces, conducted a 24-day operation in al-Hol, confiscating 25 kilograms of explosives and 25 hand grenades, and freeing six women who were allegedly found chained and tortured by ISIS operatives. Army Gen. Michael (Erik) Kurilla, the commander of the U.S. Central Command, called the camp a literal breeding ground for the next generation of ISIS, as the group looks to exploit these horrific conditions.

Michelle Shephard is an independent journalist and filmmaker and the Stars former national security correspondent. Follow her @shephardm

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Ontario needs more electricity  and lots of it.

As demand for electric vehicles (EVs) and heat pumps ramp up, projections show the province will need to more than double its generation capacity by 2050.

While Queens Park has committed to building new natural gas plants and one the the worlds first small nuclear reactors, energy sector experts say theres a better way.

Offshore wind farms in the Great Lakes could provide enough carbon-free energy to meet all of Ontarios growing demand at nearly half the cost of new nuclear reactors, according to a new report published by the Ontario Clean Air Alliance.

But theres a problem: Ontario declared a moratorium on offshore wind projects in 2011.

It was in response to political pressure that they put the moratorium on wind power in the Great Lakes, said Jack Gibbons, chair of the Ontario Clean Air Alliance and a former Toronto Hydro commissioner.

The situation has changed, he said.

The cost of wind power has fallen dramatically due to improvements in technology, said Gibbons. We need to develop a lot more clean energy and Great Lakes wind power is the best way to decarbonize our economy and to lower our electricity rates.

The report lays out the case for ending the moratorium on offshore wind in Ontario, saying the renewable technology is uniquely placed to meet surging energy demand and can be built quickly and cheaply.

Wind turbines in particular have dropped so precipitously in price that they are currently cheaper than new natural gas plants.

Last year, the Ohio Supreme Court approved the Great Lakes first offshore wind project, located near Cleveland in Lake Erie. It will be part of more than 11,000 megawatts of offshore wind power coming online in the next three years, according to the American Clean Energy Association.

While Nova Scotia has set a target of building 5,000 megawatts of offshore wind generation by 2030  and the G7 pledged to build 150,000 megawatts of offshore wind by the same date  there are no offshore turbines currently in operation anywhere in Canada.

Opposition to offshore wind has focused on perceived harms to aquatic ecosystems and migratory birds. The report, however, cites a Ministry of Natural Resources study that found offshore wind farms, if done properly, could have minimal impacts.

While the turbines are responsible for approximately one million migratory bird deaths per year in the U.S, this number is dwarfed by those caused by household cats, which kill more than 2.4 billion birds annually, the report said.

Meanwhile, recent whale deaths off the U.S. eastern seaboard, initially suspected to be caused by turbines, were in fact found to have been caused by collisions with ships and entanglements in fishing nets.

There is no scientific basis for the ongoing moratorium on offshore wind projects in Ontario, said Bryan Purcell, vice-president of policy and programs at The Atmospheric Fund, in an email.

Any concerns regarding potential impacts on wildlife can be managed through site-specific environmental assessments, he added.

Ontario Energy Ministry spokesperson Michael Dodsworth said the province has no plans to revisit the moratorium.

Evan Pivnick, clean energy program manager at Clean Energy Canada, touted the economic benefits of offshore wind projects, which do not encroach on peoples homes like onshore wind farms.

Offshore wind is a very significant resource that could be tapped to offer clean electricity to power Ontario homes and businesses, he said.

Abundant, cheap and clean electricity is one of Ontarios most important competitive advantages. Lets set aside the climate necessity of deploying clean energy and look at this purely from an economic perspective. This is going to be central to Ontario remaining competitive with other regions of Canada and the U.S. when it comes to attracting investment.

Ontarios clean electricity has been cited as a factor in attracting large investments in electric vehicle and battery manufacturing over the last few years, including plants being built by Stellantis, Volkswagen and GM.

Cleaning up Canadas electricity grid will be the backbone of the federal governments efforts to transition to a low-carbon economy, officials said at last months federal budget announcement.

If there is one single input that is essential to a transition to a low-carbon economy, it is the availability of low-cost, clean electricity, one official told reporters before the budgets release.

The budget includes $80 billion in new green tax credits for businesses, up to $6.3 billion of which is earmarked for building new non-emitting electricity to help each province reach the goal of 100 per cent non-emitting electricity by 2035.

But Ontario, which halted the construction of renewable energy generation when Premier Doug Ford was elected in 2018, has instead opted for new nuclear and natural gas plants.

This means the provinces electricity mix has been becoming progressively more carbon intensive, moving away from net-zero. Ontarios grid was 96 per cent carbon free in 2017. Last year, it was 89 per cent carbon free, according to data from the Independent Electricity System Operator.

Wind and solar are now our lowest cost sources of new electricity supply. But unfortunately, Doug Ford is going in the wrong direction. He wants to build new polluting gas fired power plants. He wants to build new high cost nuclear reactors. And that just doesnt make sense, said Gibbons.

Offshore wind could produce electricity at 14.2 cents per kilowatt hour, less than 60 per cent of the 24.3 cents that energy from new nuclear plants would cost, according to the report.

Theres also the question of construction timelines. While wind farms can be built in 12 months, nuclear plants take 10 to 15 years to complete, the report said.

The United Nations has recently told us that we have to dramatically reduce our greenhouse gas pollution by 2030. And that means that a new nuclear plant cant help us to address the threat of climate change. But wind power projects that can be built in a year can help us significantly reduce our greenhouse gas pollution in time, Gibbons said.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change cited renewables in its recent landmark report, saying they were among the cheapest options with the largest potential to reduce emissions. Nuclear power was both more expensive and had a smaller impact.

The International Energy Agency has also highlighted the staggering potential of renewable energy to transform the world quickly. While last years Russian invasion of Ukraine stoked fears that the world would renege on its climate commitments, the war ended up accelerating the global adoption of renewables.

Moratoriums on these sorts of technologies will really only see Ontario fall massively behind. This isnt a risky technology. This is one that has widespread deployment across much of the rest of the world, said Pivnick.

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Ontario hospitals are easing their mask policies for COVID-19, with some dropping mandatory masking in parts of their facility, including waiting rooms and emergency departments.

But in Toronto, some of the biggest hospitals will continue to require masks in all areas where patients may be present. University Health Network, Unity Health Toronto, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, the Hospital for Sick Children and Trillium Health Partners in Mississauga confirmed to the Star that masks must be worn in any such areas.

These hospitals are keeping mandatory masking in the clinical areas of their sites, including in-patient units and outpatient clinics, and in common places such as lobbies, elevators and hallways. Masks are still required when entering and must be worn in any area where patients are treated or where patients and their caregivers gather. However, starting this month, some hospitals are loosening masking rules in staff-only spaces.

The Toronto hospitals told the Star masking requirements were recently updated following recommendations from the province and the Toronto Region Hospital Operations Table.

There is no change to our masking policy for patients and visitors, said Dr. Jerome Leis, Sunnybrooks medical director of infection prevention and control, in an email to the Star.

Under additional guidance from the province and the Toronto Region COVID-19 Hospital Operations Table, Sunnybrook is relaxing universal masking for staff-only areas. Wearing a mask is still required while moving throughout the hospital, and in areas where staff would come into contact with patients and visitors.

This is to continue to protect the most vulnerable from COVID-related complications.

Hamilton, Kitchener and Guelph

In other parts of the province, hospitals are relaxing the rules more generally, removing mask requirements altogether except for in some circumstances, though masking continues to be encouraged.

Beginning Wednesday, St. Josephs Healthcare Hamilton and Hamilton Health Sciences, which includes McMaster Childrens Hospital, will no longer require patients, families and visitors to wear masks inside their hospital sites.

Health-care workers there will mask up when caring for patients, and patients with fevers or respiratory symptoms are required to wear one as well. People are encouraged to wear a mask while in waiting rooms, and in emergency departments and urgent care centres, Hamilton Health Sciences said in a media release.

Mask rules have also changed at hospitals in southwestern Ontario, in Kitchener hospitals and at Guelph General Hospital. For example, St. Marys General Hospital in Kitchener has adopted a mask-friendly policy as of April 17, meaning staff, patients and visitors no longer have to wear masks in most clinical areas or in hallways, meetings and shared offices.

SickKids

Starting April 24, masks wont be required at SickKids in nonclinical and non-patient facing areas of the hospital, including administrative offices and meeting spaces, or at off-site events or off-site areas, such as the Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, spokesperson Sarah Warr said in an email to the Star.

She noted masks remain mandatory in clinical areas and common spaces where patients may be present and that updated mask requirements follow recommendations that are based on a moderate level of COVID-19 transmission risk and a non-high risk period for respiratory virus transmission.

As the pandemic situation and respiratory illness trends continue to evolve, we will make adjustments to safety practices based on the best available evidence and guidance, Warr said.

University Health Network

In a statement from its Infection Prevention and Control Department, UHN said masks are required in all clinical areas, such as in-patient units and in clinics offering outpatient procedures and therapies, and within hospital common areas. Masks can be removed in nonclinical spaces but these areas will remain mask-friendly, the statement said.

UHN, which includes Canadas largest transplant program, informed staff Tuesday of the new masking rules, which recommend  but no longer require  masks in its nonclinical areas, including its finance departments, research areas, corporate offices and meeting and conference rooms.

Unity Health Toronto

At Unity Health Toronto, which includes St. Michaels Hospital and St. Josephs Health Centre, masking is universally required in all clinic and patient-facing areas, said spokesperson Hayley Mick in an email, noting there are recent changes to masking rules for staff and physicians in nonclinical areas.

This masking policy reflects current COVID-19 epidemiology and aims to achieve consistency with current public health requirements and regional hospital guidance.

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NEW YORK, April 17 (Xinhua) -- The Washington Post's recent editorial that hyped up the conspiracy theory that COVID-19 was released from China's Wuhan was condemned by scientists as swimming against the current of scientific evidence, according to an international socialist news site.

The World Socialist Web Site reported Sunday that over the past month, scientists have discovered direct means by which animals transferred SARS-CoV-2 to humans through zoonosis, the process that gave rise to every other human pandemic in history.

The most recent study, by Dr. Florence Debarre, an evolutionary biologist at the French National Centre for Scientific Research, revealed that samples containing SARS-CoV-2 from the wet market in Wuhan also contained the DNA of susceptible animals, such as raccoon dogs, according to the report.

However, on Saturday, The Washington Post published an editorial promoting the conspiracy theory that COVID-19 was released from the Wuhan Institute of Virology, said the report, noting that the "editorial deals with the growing body of scientific evidence refuting its claims by simply ignoring it."

The editorial was vocally blasted by scientists, said the report. "One thing is clear: if indeed 'there's new light' on this topic, it's not coming from the WashPost," it added, citing vaccinologist Peter Hotez. "All reckless speculation that ignores the preponderance of scientific evidence published in major journals."

"The Post's task of swimming against the current of overwhelming scientific consensus has become more difficult as the weight of scientific evidence has accumulated in favor of natural origins," it added. 
He fired four times. Struck him twice in the torso. But only after he noticed the Beretta semi-automatic pistol in the gunmans hand  and only after giving him several chances, over several seconds, to drop the gun.

In a striking report clearing a veteran cop of wrongdoing, Ontarios police watchdog has for the first time given a detailed moment-by-moment account of the horror that unfolded at a luxury condo tower in Vaughan late last year as Francesco Villi, a 73-year-old gunman, roamed its hallways, killing neighbours he believed were out to get him.

The report, released Monday by the provinces Special Investigations Unit, said the gunman, who bought the pistol legally in 2019, raised his arm as if readying to point it at the officer before he was shot. That action leaves no doubt the officer did not have any other choice but to use his gun, SIU Director Joseph Martino found.

The situation called for the immediate stopping power of a weapon from a distance, Martino concluded. Events unfolded so quickly ... that retreat or withdrawal by the (officer) was not possible. Nor was it a viable option given the continuing threat that (the gunman) represented.

The SIU investigates whenever an officer uses lethal force.

Based on a record of timestamps from recordings at the scene, the Vaughan shooting, one of Ontarios worst mass shootings, began with a fire alarm just before 7 p.m. and ended seconds before 7:30.

By then, Villi had already killed five people and wounded another.

Villis victims were condo board members Naveed Dada, 59, and Rita Camilleri, 57; Camilleris partner, Vittorio Panza, 79; previous condo board member Russell Manock, 75, and his wife, Lorraine, 71. The sixth victim  Doreen Di Nino, the wife of condo board president John Di Nino  was shot but survived.

Villi repeatedly feuded with the board in the years leading up to the massacre, making outlandish claims that his future victims were out to get him and acting aggressively in the buildings public areas.

Camilleri, Dada, Russell Manock and John Di Nino were all previously named in a lawsuit filed by Villi that a judge had recently dismissed as frivolous and vexatious.

The Monday after the shooting, Villi was set to have yet another court date at which the condo corporation was seeking to evict him from his unit.

We need the courts help in getting Mr. Villi to stop his campaign of abuse and harassment, Di Nino wrote in an affidavit. So far, nothing has worked,

At one point in a long series of social media posts, Villi claimed the board members were murdering him for self-interest and money. The years of available court records offer no evidence to support Villis claims.

Its unclear exactly what precipitated Villis crime or if he had been planning it.

According to the report, his rampage lasted nearly 30 minutes.

The veteran cop, the SIU said, was one of the first police to arrive at the condo tower, arriving through the lobby and immediately running toward the elevators. When he realized they werent working, the report said, he headed for the stairs, intending to search for the gunman floor-by-floor.

Meanwhile, York Regional Police started getting 911 calls about an active shooter at around 7:20 that night. One of the calls, the report said, was from a man whod been shot and later died. Another call, it said, came from the spouse of the woman whod been shot after opening the door to her suite and coming face-to-face with the shooter.

It was a little while later, shortly before 7:30 p.m., that the veteran officer found Villi in a hallway, the report said. At first, he didnt realize hed found the gunman and thought Villi was just another resident trying to get into his unit.

Then he noticed the man was carrying a gun.

Hey, the officer said, calling out to Villi, who turned once he realized the officer was behind him.

The officer didnt want to shoot Villi and, several times over several seconds, tried to get him to drop the gun, but Villi refused, telling the officer to shoot him. Still, Villi didnt, the report said, until he raised his right arm  the arm with the pistol  as if he was readying to point it at the officer.

Because the officer is not facing criminal charges, he is not named in the report.

While the exact timestamps on the surveillance video taken into evidence by the SIU are inaccurate, the report said, they reveal that at some point after Villi was shot, three officers carried him, one at each arm and another at his legs, into the lobby of the Bellaria II.

The officers placed him on the floor and started cardiopulmonary resuscitation, but to no avail. Villi died of gunshot wounds to the chest.

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MISSISSAUGA, Ont. - Ontarios police oversight agency says an officer who fatally shot a man who had killed five people at a condominium building should not face criminal charges.

In a news release Monday, the Special Investigations Unit says director Joseph Martino has determined there were no reasonable grounds to believe the York Regional Police officer committed a criminal offence and the file has been closed.

The SIU says that when one of the first officers responded to the condo complex in Vaughan, Ont., on Dec. 18 for a report of an active shooter, he located the man in one of the buildings hallways.

The release says that when the man refused to drop his pistol and instead raised the hand holding the gun as if readying to point it at the officer, the officer discharged his weapon four times.

The man was struck, the release says, and despite officers administering first aid, he died at the scene.

Seventy-three-year-old Francesco Villi killed five people  three condo board members and two of their spouses  whose bodies were found on three different floors.

There was no basis for proceeding with criminal charges in this case, the SIU release stated.

Court documents indicated Villi had a dispute with the condo board that went on for years, where he claimed there were issues with the electrical room below his unit that were affecting his health. But a judge rejected those claims, saying there was no evidence anything was wrong with the unit.

Villi also claimed members of the condo board had a conspiracy to systematically murder him, court documents showed, and he posted videos of board members and building staff to his social media accounts.

Residents of the building also said they found him threatening.

According to court documents, the condo board had sought to have the court force Villi to sell and vacate his unit as a penalty for being in contempt of an order to not contact the board, to stop threatening its members and building staff and to cease posting about them on social media.

The documents showed Villi was expected in court the day after the shooting.

His three daughters also said in a written statement that he was a controlling and abusive husband and father who was estranged from his children.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 17, 2023.

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Hurricane Hazels former home in Mississauga is up for sale, and it could be yours for just shy of $3 million.

The two-storey detached property, which belonged to the late Hazel McCallion and features four bedrooms, three bathrooms and an in-ground pool, was put on the market Monday for $2,999,999.

McCallions estate is selling the house after the death of the longtime Mississauga mayor in January at age 101.

Mayor McCallion was an incredibly busy, successful lady, and she really sacrificed her life for the good of the entire city, said James Hodgins, the broker of record and founder of Hodgins Realty Group. This place was a retreat for her  a sanctuary.

McCallion lived in the house for around 36 years, said Hodgins, noting that the former mayor moved into the home when it was relatively new.

Its somewhat symbolic, he added, that the property overlooks the Mississauga skyline, just beyond a serene ravine behind the lot. Its perfectly fitting that the city she built is in the background of her home, said Hodgins.

The nearly half-acre property, recently refurbished and located in Mississaugas East Credit neighbourhood, also features a large driveway, an oversized two-car garage and manicured grounds in the back that open up toward the ravine.

Hodgins said the property has already garnered great interest from potential buyers, largely because of the McCallions high profile in the community.

The formidable politician, who was Mississaugas long-serving mayor, occupying the citys top office for 12 terms, lived in the house with her German shepherd up until her death on Jan. 29.

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Three men and a woman have been sentenced to life in prison after a Brampton jury found them guilty of first-degree murder for the contract killing of 26-year-old Mario Ibrahim.

Moments after the jury returned its verdict on March 24, Superior Court Justice David E. Harris sentenced all four accused to an automatic life sentence with no possibility of parole for 25 years.

The prosecution was successful in convincing the jury that Brandon Drakes-Simon was the gunman who shot Ibrahim, 26, while he waited in his car outside a Webb Drive condo complex shortly before midnight on Oct. 22, 2019.

According to the Crown, Drakes-Simon, his then-girlfriend Melnee Christian, Jason Williams and Justin Malcolm were hired by unknown enemies of Ibrahim, who was a known drug dealer and pimp. All four had pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder.

Crown attorney Peter Maund said Ibrahim was lured into a trap, which was planned in advance and sprung immediately once he was in position.

Justin Malcolm accepted a contract to murder Mario Ibrahim, Maund said. To carry out that contract, he retained the services of Jason Williams and Drakes-Simon. To assist in that role, Drakes-Simon enlisted the help of his girlfriend, Melnee Christian.

Drakes-Simon, and Williams were also found guilty of attempted murder for a botched attempt to kill Ibrahim two days earlier when a vehicle he was travelling in was shot at on Highway 401 minutes after leaving the Mississauga club where Christian worked. Ibrahim and the driver of the vehicle escaped unharmed.

Christian was also charged with attempted murder but the jury returned a not-guilty verdict against her on that count.

The jury has heard that a different gun was used in both shootings.

Christian  a university graduate, exotic dancer and escort  took the stand in her own defence during the trial in Brampton last month, denying she lured Ibrahim to his death in a series of text messages, telling the jury she was just setting up a drug deal between the victim and her boyfriend.

Drakes-Simon, and Williams are scheduled to be back in court in July for a sentencing hearing for the attempted murder counts.

Jason Miller is a Toronto-based reporter for the Star covering crime and justice in the Peel Region. Reach him on email: jasonmiller@thestar.ca or follow him on Twitter: @millermotionpic

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Toronto is using more traffic agents in an effort to manage congestion in the city.

The city said Tuesday 30 agents will be deployed this year, with most working at critical intersections during peak traffic periods in the morning and afternoon. Traffic agents help manage congestion by directing the flow of traffic and encouraging people to follow the rules of the road.

More residents, businesses and visitors are coming to Toronto every year, said Deputy Mayor Jennifer McKelvie at a Tuesday press conference. This is a good thing.

But it also means the city of Toronto needs to keep implementing common sense solutions which  make it easier to get around our busy roads, she said, emphasizing the importance of the program as warmer weather draws more people to the city, and transit construction ramps up.

The expansion comes just before a four and a half year diversion and closure on one of Torontos busiest streetcar routes along Queen Street, scheduled to take effect on May 1.

Traffic agents are considered special constables, which allows them to manage traffic under Ontario law.

The city hired 11 new employees for the role, and said theyll be placed at a number of high-priority locations across Toronto, including along Front Street West, Lake Shore Boulevard, Eglinton Avenue, Queen Street West and Bay Street.

None of the intersections listed in the release match those identified as Torontos most congested, based on internal city data, earlier this year. However, city staff will continue to observe traffic volumes and deploy agents to other locations accordingly.

There are 14 traffic agents working for the city, with plans to hire and train the remaining 16 as quickly as possible, according to a press release.

Toronto police will also provide special constables and police constables on a six-month pilot basis to help with traffic management during peak periods, the city said.

Up to 20 constables per day will staff downtown core intersections on a voluntary callback model, without the use of on-duty resources, a TPS spokesperson confirmed in an email.

For the first few weeks of implementation, Toronto Police Service said the focus will be on the afternoon, from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Morning assignments will be introduced later.

According to the police, the cost of the pilot project does not come out of the police budget.

Toronto piloted its traffic agent program in 2016, and officially launched it in 2020.

According to the city, the pilot resulted in a 90 per cent reduction in blocked intersections and at least a 70 per cent reduction in blockage of intersections by pedestrians.

MB Marissa Birnie is a breaking news reporter, working out of the Stars radio room in Toronto. Follow her on Twitter: @marissabirnie

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Who speaks for the dead, when theyve been gone for nearly a century and are mostly forgotten?

In this case its Doug Paterson, whos been trying to persuade officials at the historic St. James Cemetery to replace a cross that topped a headstone marking the mass grave of seven victims of a horrific 1926 drowning tragedy that claimed 11 lives.

Except for viewers of the 2019 movie Brotherhood, which documented the drownings on Balsam Lake, northwest of Lindsay, hardly anyone in 21st-century Toronto would know anything about the victims of the catastrophe.

But it generated worldwide headlines and shocked the city, where the boys who lost their lives were part of a leadership camp sponsored by an Anglican church in Toronto.

The tragedy unfolded on July 20, 1926, when 15 people, mostly teenage boys and a several camp leaders who werent much older, got into a 10-metre-long war canoe and headed to Coboconk for supplies.

The canoe somehow overturned, pitching everyone into the water. To this day there are conflicting accounts of how it happened. The movie posits that a sudden storm overturned the canoe, but accounts of the four survivors published in Toronto newspapers at the time made no mention of a storm.

The boys clung to the overturned canoe and tried to manoeuvre it to land until they slowly lost strength and began slipping under the surface, one at a time. An account in the Star said they sang and prayed before they went to their deaths without a whimper.

A funeral service was held in Toronto for seven of the victims, followed by burial in a mass grave at St. James Cemetery, on Parliament Street, just south of Bloor Street. The grave was marked by a large stone with a cross on top and the names of the victims carved into it.

Paterson, who has a cottage on Balsam Lake, took an interest in the story when the movie was filmed and ended up hosting private screenings at his lakefront retreat  attended by many of the production crew and cast members  in advance of its 2019 release.

He made several visits to the grave site  including one with cast members  around the same time and said he spoke to a cemetery employee who said the cross was knocked off its base by vandals and broken about 30 years ago.

Along the way he asked St. James officials about it and was told the cemetery has a reserve fund to repair damaged grave markers, but he couldnt get a commitment from them to include the cross in the list of stones to be fixed.

He noted that the deceased were teenagers (and) left no direct descendants to speak for them, adding, I am committed to getting this done.

STATUS: I sent a note to St. James cemetery manager Terri Ward, asking if the cross could be replaced. I got a reply from John J. OBrien, director of cemetery operations, that said regrettably, the original granite cross is not reparable, but I will be proceeding to order a new one with the exact dimensions. Once I have the order placed, Ill have an indication of the timing for fabrication delivery and installation.

Whats broken in your neighbourhood? Wherever you are in Greater Toronto, we want to know. Email jlakey@thestar.ca or follow @TOStarFixer on Twitter

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Plan your trip before youre in your car: The Ministry of Transportation has scheduled 20 closures in Simcoe on April 18, 2023 for roadwork on Highway 11 and Highway 400.

Highway 11 northbound between Highway 12 North Junction / Coldwater Road and Sundial Drive / Carlyon Line: one left lane closed until April 20 at 3 p.m.

Highway 11 northbound between Laclie Street and Townline Road 12-13: one right lane closed until April 20 at 3 p.m.

Highway 11 northbound between Line 15 / Memorial Avenue / Simcoe Road 49 and Highway 12 South Junction / Old Barrie Road East: one alternating lane closed until May 19 at 11:59 p.m.

Highway 11 northbound between Shoreview Drive and Cooper Falls Road / Canal Road / County Road 52: one alternating lane closed until April 22 at 9 a.m.

Highway 11 northbound between Simcoe Road 93 / Penetanguishene Road and Townline Road 12-13: one left lane closed until April 21 at 5 a.m.

Highway 11 southbound between Cooper Falls Road / Canal Road / County Road 52 and Anchor Drive: one alternating lane closed until April 22 at 9 a.m.

Highway 11 southbound between Townline Road 12-13 and Laclie Street: one right lane closed until April 20 at 3 p.m.

Highway 11 southbound between Townline Road 12-13 and Simcoe Road 93 / Penetanguishene Road: one left lane closed until April 21 at 5 a.m.

Highway 11 southbound on-ramp at Cooper Falls Road / Canal Road / County Road 52: all lanes closed until April 22 at 5:30 a.m.

Highway 400 northbound between 5th Line and Highway 88: one right lane closed until April 18 at 5 a.m.

Highway 400 northbound between Canal Road and Highway 93 / Penetanguishene Road / Simcoe Road 9: one left lane closed until April 21 at 5 a.m.

Highway 400 northbound between Dunlop Street / Simcoe Road 90 and Highway 26 / Bayfield Street: two alternating lanes closed from April 18 at 7 p.m. until April 29 at 6 a.m.

Highway 400 northbound between Highway 26 / Bayfield Street and Duckworth Street: two alternating lanes closed from April 18 at 7 p.m. until April 29 at 6 a.m.

Highway 400 northbound between Service Centre Barrie Onroute northbound and Tiffin Street: two alternating lanes closed until April 20 at 7 a.m.

Highway 400 southbound between Duckworth Street and Highway 26 / Bayfield Street: two alternating lanes closed from April 18 at 7 p.m. until April 29 at 5 a.m.

Highway 400 southbound between Highway 26 / Bayfield Street and Dunlop Street / Simcoe Road 90: two alternating lanes closed from April 18 at 7 p.m. until April 29 at 5 a.m.

Highway 400 southbound between Highway 88 and 5th Line: one right lane closed until April 18 at 5 a.m.

Highway 400 southbound between Highway 93 / Penetanguishene Road / Simcoe Road 9 and Canal Road: one left lane closed until April 21 at 5 a.m.

Highway 400 southbound between Moonstone Road / Simcoe Road 19 and Mt. St. Louis Road: one right lane closed from April 18 at 9 a.m. until April 18 at 3 p.m.

Highway 400 southbound between Tiffin Street and Service Centre Barrie Onroute northbound: two alternating lanes closed until April 21 at 7 a.m.

Have further to travel? Highway closures for planned roadwork outside Simcoe

About this story

This story was automatically generated using open data from Ontario 511. These closures are scheduled for short-term or emergency repairs and maintenance of provincial highways around Barrie, Innisfil, Bradford and Orillia. The disruptions may be intermittent or ongoing and can change due to weather, emergencies and other factors.

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Plan your trip before youre in your car: The Ministry of Transportation has scheduled 22 closures in Toronto on April 18, 2023 for roadwork on Highway 401, Highway 404 and Highway 427.

Highway 401 eastbound at Allen Road: one left lane closed until April 21 at 5 a.m.

Highway 401 eastbound between Avenue Road and Yonge Street: one right lane closed from April 18 at 10 p.m. until April 21 at 5 a.m.

Highway 401 eastbound between Highway 400 and Morningside Avenue: two alternating lanes closed until April 20 at 5 a.m.

Highway 401 eastbound between Highway 427 and Islington Avenue: three alternating lanes closed until April 22 at 6 a.m.

Highway 401 eastbound between Jane Street and Avenue Road: all lanes closed until April 20 at 5 a.m.

Highway 401 eastbound between Kennedy Road -Scarborough and Brimley Road: one right lane closed until April 22 at 5 a.m.

Highway 401 eastbound express at Progress Avenue: one alternating lane closed until April 20 at 5 a.m.

Highway 401 eastbound express at Warden Avenue: one alternating lane closed until April 20 at 5 a.m.

Highway 401 eastbound express between Highway 400 and Morningside Avenue: two alternating lanes closed until April 20 at 5 a.m.

Highway 401 eastbound off-ramp at Yonge Street: all lanes closed until April 19 at 5 a.m.

Highway 401 eastbound on-ramp at Victoria Park Avenue: all lanes closed until April 22 at 5 a.m.

Highway 401 westbound at Brimley Road: one left lane closed until April 19 at 5 a.m.

Highway 401 westbound between Highway 2 / Kingston Road and Markham Road: all lanes closed until April 19 at 5 a.m.

Highway 401 westbound between Morningside Avenue and Highway 400: two alternating lanes closed until April 20 at 5 a.m.

Highway 401 westbound between Morningside Avenue and Neilson Road: two left lanes closed until April 18 at 5 a.m.

Highway 401 westbound express between Morningside Avenue and Highway 400: two alternating lanes closed until April 20 at 5 a.m.

Highway 401 westbound on-ramp at Dixon Road / Martin Grove Road: all lanes closed until Dec. 4 at 7 a.m.

Highway 401 westbound on-ramp at Kennedy Road -Scarborough: all lanes closed until Dec. 22 at 6 a.m.

Highway 404 northbound between Steeles Avenue and John Street: one right lane closed until April 21 at 6 a.m.

Highway 427 northbound between Dixon Road / Airport Road and Campus Road / Fasken Drive: two alternating lanes closed until April 22 at 6 a.m.

Highway 427 northbound off-ramp at Campus Road / Fasken Drive: all lanes closed until April 20 at 5 a.m.

Highway 427 southbound at Dixon Road / Airport Road: three alternating lanes closed until April 19 at 6 a.m.

Have further to travel? Highway closures for planned roadwork outside Toronto

About this story

This story was automatically generated using open data from Ontario 511. These closures are scheduled for short-term or emergency repairs and maintenance of provincial highways around Toronto, including North York, Scarborough and Etobicoke. The disruptions may be intermittent or ongoing and can change due to weather, emergencies and other factors.

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MEXICO CITY (AP)  The Mexican Navy said Monday it is using ships and a plane to search for three Americans who went missing along with their sailboat off Mexicos northern Pacific coast.

The Navy said it is using four patrol boats and a twin-engine prop airplane to search the area, but apparently no sign of the missing people has turned up yet.

The three Americans were aboard the 44-foot (13.5 meter) sailing vessel Ocean Bound. The U.S. Coast Guard gave their names as Kerry OBrien, Frank OBrien, and William Gross.

They have not been heard from since April 4, when they were near the Pacific coast port of Mazatlan, Mexico. The three had planned to stop for supplies in the Baja town of Cabo San Lucas, before proceeding to San Diego.

However, the Coast Guard said marinas in Baja California have not reported seeing the vessel.

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NEW YORK, April 18 (Xinhua) -- Senior writer for CNN Digital Faith Karimi said she has been increasingly troubled by racism after her son was born, though she has lived in the United States for years and covered incidents of racism.

"I moved to the U.S. from Kenya. I never fully realized I was Black until I had a son," Karimi said in a CNN report on Monday.

"I had never worried about my blackness or looked at my life through the lens of race" in the first 20 years, Karimi said, adding that her status as an immigrant troubled her the most.

Karimi said black immigrants like her are part of a growing demographic.

A Pew study said over 4.6 million Black immigrants live in the United States, a jump from the roughly 800,000 in 1980. 
MEXICO CITY (AP)  Mexicos Supreme Court ruled Tuesday that last years transfer of the newly created National Guard from civilian to military control was unconstitutional, dealing a blow to President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador who created the security force in 2019.

The vast majority of the National Guards members and leadership came from Mexicos military, but it was described as a civilian force and placed under the control of the civilian public security ministry. Lopez Obrador created it with a constitutional reform to replace the disbanded federal police.

Last year, Mexicos Congress passed legislation shifting control of the National Guard to the military. Lopez Obrador had argued then, as he repeated Tuesday, that it was the only way to avoid the corruption that engulfed the federal police.

Legal challenges were mounted immediately, noting that since the civilian nature of the National Guard was enshrined in the constitution, it could only be changed through another constitutional reform. By then however, Lopez Obradors ruling party and allies no longer had the necessary majority in Congress.

The attempted shift fed criticism that Lopez Obrador was militarizing Mexico.

Troops had already been critical in previous administrations in combatting the powerful and heavily-armed drug cartels. But rather than sending them back to the barracks as Lopez Obrador had once advocated, he cemented their role in Mexicos public security.

Last October, the Congress extended the time the military would be able to continue performing a domestic law enforcement role to 2028. Previously, that role was supposed to end in 2024. The Mexican public has expressed higher levels of trust in the military than in police in polling.

Lopez Obrador also vastly expanded the militarys responsibilities, putting them in charge of ports and customs, as well as his signature projects like building a new Mexico City airport and a tourist train on the Yucatan Peninsula.

While the National Guard  now some 128,000 strong  could muster the firepower to match the cartels, it did not have the investigative capacity of a civilian police force. Critics have said the National Guard has largely operated as a visible patrolling presence in Mexicos many insecure areas, but is not dismantling organized criminal capability.

Eight of the courts 11 ministers ruled the transfer to military control unconstitutional.

On Tuesday morning, before the courts decision, Lopez Obrador criticized the court broadly for not producing justice and personally for court members salaries.

If the National Guard isnt under the defense secretary and goes on like before when it was under the public security secretary ... look how the federal police ended up: completely corrupt, Lopez Obrador said.

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CARACAS, Venezuela (AP)  Russia and Venezuela reviewed some of their hundreds of bilateral agreements covering the financial, energy, agricultural and other sectors during discussions between their top diplomats and other high-level officials Tuesday in the South American country.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and his Venezuelan counterpart Yvan Gil held a joint press conference in Caracas hours after the former arrived in the country in the second stop of a tour of four Latin American nations. Both men vowed continued support for each others country and condemned the economic sanctions Washington has imposed on them.

We fully support the position of our Venezuelan friends, Lavrov said. It is their country ... and we are going to support it in any way so that the Venezuelan economy becomes an independent economy from the pressures of the United States and other western actors.

Lavrovs remarks were translated from Russian to Spanish by a government-provided translator.

Officials reviewed some of the hundreds of agreements between both countries covering the financial, energy, agricultural and other sectors.

Gil and Lavrov, who was expected to also meet with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, said their countries are developing an alternative to SWIFT, the system that enables global financial transactions but to which key Russian banks lost access last year. Those banks were cut off as part of economic sanctions imposed on Russia at the start of the war in Ukraine last year.

Russia, along with China, is an unconditional ally of the Venezuelan government. Its support has allowed it to circumvent crippling economic sanctions meant to oust Maduro.

A global drop in oil prices last decade and government mismanagement pushed Venezuela into the political, social and economic crisis that has marked the entirety of Maduros presidency. The crisis fueled an opposition movement backed by the U.S. government, which under the Trump administration made forcing Maduro out one of its top foreign policy priorities and used economic sanctions on Venezuelas state-owned energy company to keep the countrys oil  its most valuable resource  out of some Western markets.

The Biden administration has lifted some sanctions and has also signaled it is prepared to provide sanctions relief in exchange for concrete steps by Maduro, such as promising not to ban whatever candidate emerges from opposition primaries later this year.

We have not perceived an easing of sanctions, Gil told reporters.

Relief actions already taken by the U.S. government include allowing oil giant Chevron to resume limited oil production in Venezuela on a six-month trial basis and removing a nephew of First Lady Cilia Flores from a list of sanctioned individuals.

Lavrov began his tour of Latin America on Monday with a stop in Brazil, where the administration of President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva is seeking to simultaneously develop ties with China, Europe and the U.S. while keeping an open door to Russia. During a visit to Dubai, Lula said that Russia and Ukraine share responsibility for the war.

Lavrov will also visit Cuba and Nicaragua this week.

Even before they were united by a fight against economic sanctions, Venezuela had forged a close relationship with Russia and made multi-million-dollar acquisitions of helicopters, fighter planes and Kalashnikov rifles.

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DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP)  Kuwaits crown prince has said its parliament again will be dissolved and new elections planned for the country after a court decision reinstated lawmakers from 2020.

Sheikh Meshal Al Ahmed Al Jaber made the announcement Monday in an address to the nation as the Muslim holy fasting month of Ramadan draws to an end this week. He called the decision the will of the Kuwaiti people, according to the state-run KUNA news agency.

Sheikh Meshal cited a Kuwaiti law allowing its emir to dissolve parliament, though it was him making the speech in the place of the countrys 85-year-old ruler, Sheikh Nawaf Al Ahmad Al Sabah.

In March, Kuwaits Constitutional Court threw out a 2022 election for parliament, citing discrepancies in the decree dissolving the 2020 parliament for its ruling. That briefly reinstated the former lawmakers.

It wasnt immediately clear if the order Monday took effect immediately, though analysts had expected parliament to be dissolved. Elections were to be scheduled within the next two months, the 82-year-old Sheikh Meshal said.

Kuwait has the freest and most active assembly among the Gulf Arab states, but political power is still largely concentrated in the hands of the ruling Al Sabah family, which appoints the prime minister and Cabinet, and can dissolve the assembly at any time. Meanwhile, political squabbling has affected the countrys economy, stopping it from passing a law allowing Kuwait to borrow money.

Kuwait, which borders Saudi Arabia and Iraq, has the worlds sixth-largest known oil reserves and hosts some thousands of American troops.

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BEIRUT (AP)  Lebanons parliament Tuesday voted to extend the terms of local officials, paving the way to postpone municipal elections for up to a year for a second time. Some lawmakers were concerned the government wouldnt be able to secure the needed funding in time for polling.

The likely delay came as Lebanons economy and infrastructure continue to crumble, with legislators in the deeply divided parliament unable to reach a settlement to end a presidential vacuum for almost six months.

Lebanons municipal elections were originally slated for May last year but were postponed for a year because they coincided with parliamentary elections, which brought in a dozen reformist lawmakers running on anti-establishment platforms. Tuesdays vote extended the terms of local officials by another year,

Opposition and reformist groups would likely continue this momentum and win additional seats if local elections were held, as living conditions across the country continue to deteriorate. They have called for municipal elections to take place as planned in May, and most have boycotted parliaments session.

Lebanon has been without a fully functioning government for nearly a year as Prime Minister Najib Mikati heads a caretaker Cabinet with limited functions. The country has also been in a severe economic crisis since late 2019, with three-quarters of the population now living in poverty.

Riot police lobbed tear gas Tuesday at hundreds of protesting retired soldiers who broke down a barbed wire fence near government headquarters in downtown Beirut as the Cabinet met. Protesters burned tires as scores of riot police and army soldiers surrounded the area.

Retired military personnel have frequently protested the countrys dire economic conditions and wage and pension hikes that are adjusted to the countrys soaring inflation.

Before the value of the national currency started spiraling in late 2019, the countrys monthly minimum wage was 675,000 pounds  about $450 dollars  but today is worth less than $7.

Mikatis Cabinet on Tuesday agreed to increase the private sectors minimum monthly wage from 2.6 million to 9 million pounds, worth $92.50 at the countrys black market rate, which dominates the market. They also raised the exchange rate used for calculating customs fees from 30,000 pounds to the dollar to the central banks Sayrafa platform, where the dollar is valued at 86,700 pounds.

Meanwhile, top political groups and leaders continue to quarrel. Mikatis government and various major political groups in parliament, notably the Christian Free Patriotic Movement, have accused each other of stalling the securing of funding and logistics that caused the delay.

If you really didnt want to postpone municipal elections, why did you attend todays session and secure a quorum? The prime minister said at parliament in a heated dispute with several parliamentarians.

Just 65 of Lebanons 128 lawmakers attended, the bare minimum needed for a legislative session to secure a quorum.

Earlier this month, caretaker Interior Minister Bassam Mawlawi, whose ministry oversees elections, said Lebanon was ready to hold timely municipal elections, and that he had secured funding from the European Union and the United Nations to ease the burden on the countrys shoestring budget.

Both the EU and the U.N. have urged the crisis-hit country to hold elections on time. However, legislators have yet to pass a draft law that would secure an advance to the Interior Ministry.

Deputy Speaker Elias Bou Saab said in a parliamentary committee session on funding that holding the vote on time would be impossible and added that Mawlawis representative had told lawmakers they could not secure the funds despite the interior ministers claims.

Lebanons last municipal elections in 2016 saw low voter turnout. In Beirut, local media reported a 20% voter turnout, whereas 48% of voters in Baalbek near the Syrian border cast their ballots.

In Lebanons sect-based power-sharing system, citizens only directly vote in parliamentary and municipal elections. Parliamentarians, split evenly between Muslim and Christian sects, vote for a Maronite Christian president, who then negotiates alongside them to bring in a Sunni Muslim prime minister. The speaker of parliament is a Shiite Muslim.

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BEIRUT (AP)  Saudi Arabias top diplomat arrived in the Syrian capital on Tuesday, the first official visit by an official from the kingdom in more than a decade, the Syrian government said.

The visit by Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan to Damascus follows that of his Syrian counterpart, Faisal Mikdad, to Riyadh last week. Syrian state news agency SANA reported that after his arrival, the Saudi top diplomat was received by Syrian President Bashar Assad.

A statement published by Saudi state media said that bin Farhans visit came within the framework of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabias keenness and interest to reach a political solution to the Syrian crisis that would end all its repercussions and preserve Syrias unity, security, stability, and Arab identity and restore it to its Arab surroundings.

The kingdom cut off diplomatic relations with Damascus in 2012, after the outbreak of Syrias civil war. Syria and Saudi Arabia said last week they were moving toward restoring consular services and resuming flights between the two countries.

Syria was widely shunned by Arab governments over Assads brutal crackdown on protesters in a 2011 uprising that descended into civil war. The breakdown in relations culminated with Syria being ousted from the Arab League.

However, in recent years, as Assad consolidated control over most of the country, Syrias neighbors have begun to take steps toward rapprochement. The overtures picked up pace since the massive Feb. 6 earthquake in Turkey and Syria, and the Chinese-brokered reestablishment of ties between Saudi Arabia and Iran, which had backed opposing sides in the Syrian conflict.

Saudi Arabia is hosting the next Arab League summit in May, when Syrias membership is widely expected to be on the table. Some members, mainly Qatar, have opposed Damascus return to the organization.

On Friday, a group of regional leaders from the Arab Gulf countries as well as Egypt, Jordan and Iraq convened in Saudi Arabia to discuss Syrias political fate.

Following the meeting, the group promised to continue talks to reach a political solution to the Syrian conflict, but stopped short of endorsing its return to the Arab League.

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BOISE, Idaho (AP)  Prosecutors say the mother charged in a triple murder case took part in a complex conspiracy that included unusual spiritual beliefs and efforts to kill those who stood in the way of her goals. Here, a look at the defendants and the first witnesses in the trial of Lori Vallow Daybell:

THE DEFENDANT:

Lori Vallow Daybell, 49, is a beautician by trade, a mother of three, and a wife  five times over. Shes pleaded not guilty to murder, conspiracy and grand theft charges in the deaths of her two youngest kids and her new husbands previous wife.

Vallow Daybells first marriage, to a high school sweetheart when she was just 19, ended quickly. She married again in her early 20s, and had a son named Colby before divorcing. In 2001, Vallow Daybell married again, this time to a man named Joseph Ryan. The couple had a baby girl named Tylee in 2002, but divorced just a few years later. Ryan later died in his home of a suspected heart attack.

Charles Vallow, a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, entered the picture several months later. Vallow Daybell joined the LDS church and the pair married in 2006. They later adopted Joshua Jaxon JJ Vallow.

But by 2019, that marriage had also soured. Charles Vallow filed for divorce, contending in court papers that Vallow Daybell also believed herself to be a deity tasked with helping to usher in the Biblical apocalypse.

The two were estranged but still married when Vallow Daybells brother, Alex Cox, shot and killed Charles Vallow outside his Phoenix suburban home.

Cox told police the shooting was in self defense, and was never charged in the case. Shortly after Charles death, Vallow Daybell moved to eastern Idaho with JJ, Tylee and her brother Cox.

Chad Daybell became her fifth husband on November 5, 2019  roughly two weeks after his previous wife Tammy Daybell died under suspicious circumstances.

Meanwhile, JJ and Tylee were missing. They were last seen in September, and they were declared missing in November after extended family urged police to investigate. Their bodies were found the following year buried in Chad Daybells yard.

CHAD DAYBELL:

Daybell, 54, was also a member of the LDS church and a self-published author who wrote doomsday-focused fiction loosely based on church teachings. He married Tammy Daybell in 1990, and they had five kids.

Prosecutors say he met Vallow Daybell at a conference in Utah in 2018. The two purportedly felt an instant connection and claimed they had been married to each other in a past life, according to police records. Friends of the couple told investigators that the pair shared the same unusual beliefs, including that they could tell if someone had been taken over by an evil spirit.

Chad and Lori led a group of friends in trying to cast out the supposed evil spirits by praying and doing energy work, prosecutors said. Friends told police that in some cases they determined a person had become a zombie, fully controlled by the evil spirit. Vallow Daybell claimed the only way to get rid of a zombie was to destroy the persons body, prosecutors say, and one friend told police she heard Vallow Daybell call the children zombies before they disappeared.

Tammy Daybell was initially described as having died in her sleep of natural causes. But an autopsy showed she was asphyxiated to death, Prosecutor Lindsey Blake told jurors on Monday.

Chad Daybell is also charged in the triple murder case. Like Vallow Daybell, he has pleaded not guilty to all the charges. He is expected to stand trial several months from now.

COLBY RYAN:

Ryan, 27, is Vallow Daybells only living child. Though he was born of Vallow Daybells second marriage, when his mother remarried Colby took Joe Ryans last name.

Colby Ryan, who testified that he had a happy childhood, started crying on the stand when prosecutors showed him photos of Tylee and JJ, and talked about how Tylee was receiving social security benefits because her biological father Joe Ryan died in 2018. Sometimes she would send money to Colby Ryan through a phone app, and sometimes his mom would put money into Tylees account to send to him, he said.

After Ryan moved out of the family home, he continued to exchange texts with Tylee. But shortly after what would have been Tylees 17th birthday in September of 2019, the tone and syntax of those texts changed. Tylee had last been seen alive a few weeks earlier, but at the time Ryan didnt know she was missing.

The occasional money transfers continued too, though through a different phone app under his mothers name, he said.

After his siblings bodies were found, Ryan confronted his mother in an emotional recorded phone call that was played for jurors.

The call starts with Ryan asking Vallow Daybell if she thought she could keep hiding from him.

Im not hiding, why would you think Im hiding? she responds.

Probably because you murdered my siblings! Maybe you should understand, Ryan continued, before his mother interrupted:

I didnt. Im sorry you feel that way, she said.

KAY WOODCOCK:

Woodcock is JJs grandmother, and she convinced Idaho police to check up on JJ after her normally regular phone calls and visits with the boy dried up. That welfare check in November of 2019 revealed that both kids were missing. JJs father, Charles Vallow, is actually Woodcocks brother: He adopted JJ as a baby because JJs biological parents  including Woodcocks son  were unable to care for the child.

Woodcock was the first witness in the trial. She told jurors that JJ was born with some disabilities and was diagnosed with autism. After Charles died, Woodcock feared Vallow Daybell no longer wanted the boy. She was also worried that JJ may had witnessed his fathers death.

We were so worried about JJ, and did he see what happened to his dad, Woodcock told jurors.

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HARRISONBURG, Va. (AP)  A Civil War reenactor has pleaded guilty to charges that he planted a pipe bomb at a Virginia battlefield in 2017 and wrote letters falsely claiming that antifa protesters were to blame.

Prosecutors on Tuesday announced the guilty plea from Gerald Leonard Drake, 63, of Winchester.

Drake admitted during a hearing Monday in federal court in Harrisonburg that he planted a pipe bomb at Cedar Creek Battlefield during an annual reenactment in October 2017. The bomb did not detonate, but it resulted in cancellation of the reenactment after its discovery.

Drake was a Civil War reenactor who regularly participated in events at Cedar Creek until he was expelled from his unit in 2014.

He also admitted writing letters in 2017 and 2018 in which he falsely portrayed himself as part of a group of antifa activists who were targeting the reenactments because they believed them to glorify slavery. The letters threatened violence at subsequent Cedar Creek reenactments as well as an annual Remembrance Day Parade in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.

This defendant sought to intimidate and harm innocent people, and further, he tried to sow discontent by falsely claiming that the attempted bombing was politically motivated, said U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Virginia Christopher Kavanaugh, whose office prosecuted the case.

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NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP)  Tennessee Rep. Justin Pearson never guessed hed be expelled for leading a gun control protest on the House floor after a deadly school shooting. Nor did he predict that hed be propelled into the national spotlight, placing his state at the forefront of the conversation on gun regulations.

Activism had yielded results for years for the 28-year-old son of a preacher and a teacher. At age 15, he prodded a school board to get his Memphis high school more textbooks. After college, he fought a planned oil pipeline through wetlands and poor, predominantly Black neighborhoods in the citys south. The project was canceled in 2021.

The push to boot Pearson and two other Democrats has kept national attention fixed on reliably Republican Tennessee. They hope the pressure from thousands of students, parents and others who have protested at the Capitol for gun control can yield quick change. GOP Gov. Bill Lee has called for legislation to keep firearms away from people who could harm themselves or others. But Republican lawmakers have been noncommittal, and want to adjourn soon, possibly this week.

Meanwhile, its hard not to look ahead for Tennessee Democrats. The attention has attracted the kind of campaign cash that has eluded them for years.

I think theres a new awakening thats happening, Pearson told The Associated Press in an interview Monday. And were going to be able to consistently build on that, because the issues that were fighting arent going away, and the people who are fighting arent going away, either.

Pearson was expelled for protesting on the House floor alongside a fellow Democratic Black lawmaker, Nashvilles Rep. Justin Jones. Rep. Gloria Johnson, who is white, was spared by one vote. Jones and Pearson have since been restored.

Pearson said his activism and oratory came partly through osmosis  from his mother, an English teacher, and his father, a preacher  as he grew up financially poor, but spiritually rich.

He briefly attended school in a wealthy Virginia suburb of Washington, D.C., and realized that, by comparison, the school he attended in Memphis lacked resources. On his return, Pearson said, he held up his mothers bachelor degree and his algebra book before school board officials, asking how students could ever get a degree without enough textbooks. Days later, he showed up at school to more books.

I remember walking in, and its just like, Oh, so this is change? Pearson said. You take an issue, you raise your voice, you explain the injustice, you fight for it.

Pearson attended Bowdoin College in Maine, then returned to Memphis and helped lead a winning fight against the planned oil pipeline through southwest Tennessee and north Mississippi. The Memphis City Council was considering an ordinance to make it harder for the company to build the pipeline, but no vote occurred before the cancelation.

Republican state lawmakers noticed.

In 2022, they largely stripped the ability of local governments to stop oil and gas pipelines and other fossil fuel infrastructure projects. Pearson, who lobbied against the bill, helped secure some amendments. But he said the GOPs legislative supermajority showed its punitive attitude toward left-leaning cities.

The problem with that entire legislative process was the pipeline was canceled before we passed any laws locally, Pearson said. And so, its trying to have an overcorrection to something that wasnt a correction.

Pearson subsequently won a primary election for the seat left open after Rep. Barbara Cooper died. With no general election opponent, local officials installed him early on an interim basis.

Republican legislative leaders chastised the Democrats targeted for removal for breaches of decorum and rules  House Majority Leader William Lamberth said Thursday that you cant step into the well, whip out a bullhorn and start yelling at folks.

Pearson said the move represented more than a miscalculation.

I think the Republican Party of Tennessee was hoping that expelling us would somehow expel our fight, and they were wrong, Pearson said. It wasnt just a miscalculation. It was the result of anti-democratic behavior that has become aligned to this Republican Party.

A day after the expulsions, Democratic U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy from Connecticut said he had helped to raise $425,000 for Pearson and Jones. Its unclear how high the amount has grown nearly two weeks later.

Tennessees Democratic Party on Friday told prospective donors it had raised almost $400,000 in one week.

Sitting lawmakers cant take campaign cash during legislative sessions, but Pearson and Jones were able to go on a dayslong fundraising spree at the height of their popularity because Republican lawmakers kicked them out. Its unclear how much they raised.

Pearson said the wave of attention and campaign donations presents a responsibility, an obligation and an opportunity.

The Republican supermajority in the House has allowed the GOP to waive rules to fast-track certain bills, cut off debates and more. Johnson, the third lawmaker targeted for expulsion, said Democrats must try to elect enough progressive lawmakers to affect change.

Weve got to get 10 seats, Johnson told the AP last week. We need to get 10 folks who are going to speak up, and stand up, and not bow down to the supermajority.

Democrats have struggled to recalibrate since Phil Bredesen lost to Republican U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn in 2018 by nearly 11 percentage points, despite being a popular, moderate former governor. Only Nashville-Davidson County and Memphis Shelby County voted against Gov. Lees 2022 reelection.

Pearson wants to see more organizations and resources in the state focused on preventing gun violence and boosting other progressive issues, along with the political activation of young people.

Im hopeful that we will be able to use resources to keep our fight going and to get progressive voices in the state of Tennessee and the state Legislature, Pearson said, because there are a lot of people in our communities who can speak no more because they suffered from the effects of gun violence.

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DES MOINES, Iowa - Two Iowa teenagers admitted helping ambush and kill their high school Spanish teacher who was beaten to death in a park with a baseball bat. Both pleaded guilty Tuesday to first degree murder.

Prosecutors said Willard Miller and Jeremy Goodale carried out the 2021 attack on Nohema Graber because of a bad grade she had given Miller. The two were 16 at the time.

Evidence shows both Miller and Goodale struck the 66-year-old teacher while she was taking her regular after-school walk, prosecutors say. Miller admitted helping plan and carry out the killing but denied ever hitting Graber. Goodale testified that Miller initiated the plan to kill Graber and each of them struck her.

The Fairfield High School teachers body was found hidden in the park under a tarp, wheelbarrow and railroad ties. The town of Fairfield is home to some 9,400 people and is around 100 miles (160 kilometers) southeast of Des Moines.

As part of an agreement with Miller, prosecutors will recommend a sentence between 30 years and life in prison, with the possibility of parole. For Goodale, prosecutors said theyll recommend a sentence between 25 years and life with the possibility of parole.

Goodale testified that they planned the killing for about two weeks, after Miller recruited him to help. Goodale had previously agreed to testify against Miller at his trial, which was expected to begin later this week.

On Nov. 2 of 2021, I met Willard Miller at Chautauqua Park, and I understood that he had intent to kill Mrs. Graber, Goodale said as he entered his plea. He said Miller brought a bat among other supplies to go through with the murder.

After he had struck Nohema Graber, he then moved her off of the trail where I then struck her and she died as a result, Goodale said. Afterwards, we removed any evidence that we could.

The two were charged as adults because of the severity of the crime, but they werent subject to a mandatory sentence of life without parole because they were 16. Willard is now 17 and Goodale is 18.

Investigators have said that Miller met with Graber at the high school on the afternoon of Nov. 2, 2021, to discuss his poor grade in her class. Graber later drove her van to a park where she was known to take walks after work, authorities say. Witnesses saw her van leaving the park less than an hour later with two males in the front seat.

The van was left abandoned at the end of a rural road. After getting a phone call from Goodale, a witness later picked up Goodale and Miller as they walked to town on that road, investigators say.

Goodale and Miller were initially detained after a witness provided police with photos of a Snapchat conversation in which Goodale allegedly implicated himself and Miller in the killing.

In a police interview, Miller described the frustrations he had with the way Graber taught Spanish and how the grade in her class was lowering his GPA.

___

This story has been updated to correct Goodales age to 18, not 17.

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Maybe she was protesting the governments ham-handed treatment of health care workers during the pandemic. Or perhaps she is overloaded with patients because so many family doctors have left Alberta.

Or maybe she was just publicly scoffing at Premier Danielle Smith as she promised to uphold the public health care system in front of a gaggle of journalists gathered outside a clinic where patients can pay for an MRI if they want to skip ahead of other people on the wait-list.

Whatever her reasons, a woman wearing a medical mask and a white lab coat stood off to the side of the press conference and silently scorned Smiths Public Health Care Guarantee by folding her arms and flaunting her middle finger.

An alert Canadian Press photographer caught the shot and it was soon all over the internet.

If you are wondering why Smith would have to promise to uphold public health care (its a no-brainer for most people) in a campaign-style announcement when an election hasnt yet been called, allow me to cite some reasons.

Smith herself has publicly mused about dismantling universal public health care paid for with tax revenue and available to everyone at no cost. In a paper she wrote for the University of Calgary School of Public Policy in 2021 (she was a talk radio host at the time!) she proposed a patient-focused system that has to shift the burden of payment away from taxpayers and toward private individuals, their employers and their insurance companies.

During her leadership campaign she touted health-care spending accounts of $375 per person per year that would cover services such as massage, physiotherapy and even visits to a family doctor. These accounts, she claimed, would get people used to paying out of pocket for health care.

And then there was her claim during a YouTube discussion with a naturopath that a person should not have to suffer Stage 4 cancer because curing it beforehand is completely within their control. She might as well have said: Who needs oncologists and other health care workers when people can cure themselves.

A UCP candidate recently echoed the same sentiment. Chelsae Petrovic said during a podcast a person suffering a heart attack wouldnt be burdening the health care system with a visit to the ER had they looked after themselves properly. Shes a nurse so one can easily imagine what it must have been like to be her patient.

Former premier Jason Kenney had his own Public Health Care Guarantee. He made a big splash of it when he was campaigning during the 2019 election. But soon after he was elected he quickly trashed that promise: his health minister tore up the contract between doctors and the government, laid off nurses and started handing over surgeries to for-profit clinics.

Needless to say, Rachel Notley and the NDP are having a field day with Smiths scary and weird pronouncements about health care. In a recent opinion poll of 1,000 Calgarians conducted by Janet Brown Research for CBC News, nearly half of all respondents said health care is one of their top issues  and most people trusted the NDP to be better managers of the system. Since Calgary is considered the main battleground in the upcoming election (May 29) this does not bode well for Smith and the UCP.

And thats no doubt why the same day the poll findings hit the news media Smith rushed to have a campaign-style press conference focused on health care, complete with promises and UCP candidates. Looks like the UCP brain trust is already in panic mode.

As for the health care worker with the dismissive finger; she became a hero to some and a villain to others. But her appearance at a carefully staged press conference made it clear that health care will be front and centre during the upcoming election campaign.

GS Gillian Steward is a Calgary-based writer and freelance contributing columnist for the Star. Follow her on Twitter: @GillianSteward

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MEXICO CITY, April 18 (Xinhua) -- Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador on Monday accused the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) of overstepping its boundaries in its alleged scheme to infiltrate the Sinaloa Cartel without prior authorization from Mexican officials.

The act constituted "an abusive and arrogant interference that should not be accepted under any circumstances," he said at a press conference.

It is unacceptable for foreign agents to "spy" in Mexico, said Lopez Obrador, calling on U.S. authorities to change tack and opt for cooperation.

Washington should also revise its drug abuse prevention strategies so as to address the causes of addiction, especially among youths, Lopez Obrador said.

Mexico is working to combat the drug cartels, but criminal organizations also operate in the United States, he said.

"It is important to clarify these matters because they (the United States) have a serious problem due to drug use," Lopez Obrador added. 
The big number 551 the number of TTC buses considered spare and not part of the TTC service plan during its busiest periods

On Torontos transit system, increasingly the wheels on the buses are not going round and round.

According to the TTCs service plan for April and an analysis by transit expert Steve Munro, 551 buses are not being used in active service during peak periods. There are also 81 streetcars and 40 subway trains that arent part of service at the busiest time of day. Collectively, these vehicles are just sitting empty in storage yards, waiting to fulfil their transit destiny, like a very sad episode of Shining Time Station where Thomas the Tank Engine and friends learn about existential angst.

Holding back some vehicles makes sense, of course. Transit systems like to maintain a spare ratio to allow some ability to swap in a fresh bus when one breaks down or offer shuttle service during emergency subway closures. This also allows more flexibility during periods of construction, like when streetcars are swapped out for buses during track replacement.

The spare ratio is calculated as a percentage of the number of spare vehicles divided by the number of vehicles in service during the busiest times. So, for example, a ratio of 20 per cent would mean an agency has 20 spare buses for every 100 buses in service during the rush hour period.

Historically, the TTC stuck to a ratio of about 18 per cent. At last weeks TTC board meeting, CEO Rick Leary said that target has gone up in recent years to between 20 and 22 per cent because of all the technology we [now] put on our vehicles, he explained, which has generally required more vehicles to be kept out of service so the TTC can conduct extra preventative maintenance.

But newfangled technology aside, in response to the current budget crisis and sagging post-pandemic ridership, the TTC is overshooting both its old and new target across all its vehicle types. For April, the bus spare ratio is 35 per cent, the streetcar spare ratio is 66 per cent, and the subway train ratio is 27 per cent on Line 1 and 53 per cent on Line 2. Achieving a ratio of 22 per cent spare vehicles would put at least 172 buses, 44 streetcars and 13 subway trains back in service during peak times.

And these numbers reflect service before a round of service cuts set to take effect on May 7. The TTC, showing a remarkable lack of respect for people who rely on its service to make important trips, still hasnt confirmed the specifics of the coming cuts, but documents obtained via a freedom-of-information request by the advocacy group TTC Riders suggest theyll see some significant reductions that are likely to lead to more trains, buses and vehicles going generally unused on a day-to-day basis.

Obviously, the growing number of spare vehicles ought to be frustrating for riders. The next time you find yourself jammed next to someones armpit on a crowded bus, try not to think about the fact there are dozens of empty buses that could be in service, but arent.

But this situation ought to be frustrating for some politicians in Ottawa too. Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus government has greatly increased funding for public transit since coming to power in 2015. Over the next 10 years, about 20 per cent of the TTCs $12.5-billion budget for capital projects comes from federal funds. And Trudeaus recent federal budget touts investments leading to 4,200 new transit vehicles across Canada.

It turns out, however, that in Canadas largest city, a bunch of those vehicles are generally idle, with more seemingly destined for the same fate. In 2021, the Trudeau government teamed up with Premier Doug Fords government to help Toronto purchase 60 more streetcars at a cost of $568 million, but with the TTC currently only planning service for 123 of the 204 streetcars in the current fleet, its unclear what practical use they will serve.

These are federal investments that have been linked to the fight against climate change, but transit vehicles carrying no passengers do nothing to help that fight.

If the Trudeau government wants to see a return on its investment, it should consider also providing Toronto with funds to operate those vehicles. For too long, the federal and provincial governments have favoured funding capital projects that allow for flashy ribbon-cutting events while eschewing any responsibility for funding ongoing operating costs and maintenance. Now would be a good time to change that.

Pessimists may argue that theres no point. Ridership is low, and any extra vehicles added will just run empty. But history tells us that the only way to break out of a transit death spiral  where declining ridership leads to service cuts which lead to further ridership declines  is to demonstrate a real, sustained commitment to providing quality service, even if the riders take a while to show up.

The good news for the TTC is that its historic constraint on providing more service  the availability of buses, streetcars and trains  isnt the major obstacle this time. These days, the TTC has got vehicles to spare.

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Katie Telford's appearance before a parliamentary committee provided a few nuggets of information on the question of foreign interference in Canadian elections.

The chief of staff to Justin Trudeau told MPs Friday that nothing is kept from the prime minister when it comes to intelligence and national security. She assured them that any threats to national security are acted on. And we learned that Trudeau received at least six formal briefings since 2018, plus any number of informal discussions, on the topic.

But we seem no closer to answers on the key questions of what the government knew about alleged Chinese interference, when did it know and what action was taken.

Take for example Telfords assurance that the government has been following up on media reports around some of the allegations of interference. To that, she added, there have been a number of things that dont add up in the way that we know them or that officials are able to tell us about.

Hardly reassuring. Not at all illuminating.

Thats not good enough, not for MPs seeking answers, nor for Canadians whose faith in democracy is being tested by the steady drip-drip-drip of disturbing revelations of Chinese attempts to sway recent elections, detailed largely by the Globe and Mail and Global News.

As the top aide to the prime minister, Telford is privy to virtually all the intelligence presented to Trudeau. She would know the actions taken in response. She may well have directed some of them herself.

And yet MPs  and by extension, Canadians  were denied the chance to assess for themselves the risks that were present and how the government responded. Telford declined to provide specifics, citing the need to protect sensitive intelligence.

That was the similar refrain offered by David Vigneault, director of the Canadian Security Intelligence Service; Jody Thomas, the national security and intelligence adviser; and David Morrison, the deputy minister of foreign affairs, during their own, previous, appearances before the Commons committee.

While MPs will hear from more witnesses, it seems doubtful the committee can move the yardsticks on public understanding of the problem or shed meaningful light on the remedies taken so far if no one will provide any information.

So we turn instead to David Johnston, the former governor general who was appointed last month by Trudeau as a special rapporteur to oversee investigations into foreign interference and make recommendations on the issue, including whether a public inquiry should be held.

Telford assured the committee that Johnston has been given full access to intelligence information. But how much authority does he have to report publicly on what his review turns up?

A public inquiry would face the same dilemma. It only works if the testimony and evidence are public. Indeed, Thomas told MPs there cant be a full public inquiry because some things just cant be publicly disclosed.

Yet fuzzy assurances no longer cut it. Nor do vague government denials of disturbing media reports of specific incidents of alleged interference.

A better balance must be struck, one that respects the tactics and sources employed by Canadas intelligence agencies but provides a better response to Canadians, who have been largely kept in the dark.

We dont to look far for an example of how this might work. The Rouleau inquiry into the use of the Emergencies Act to respond to the 2022 convoy protests provided useful insights into the governments response to the crisis. And it succeeded in its probe in part because the Liberal government agreed to waive cabinet privilege to allow disclosure of key documents. Secrets were shared and the world didnt end.

Thats the challenge now before the Liberal government. It has to decide whats more important  keeping secrets or ensuring public trust in Canadas electoral system. On this critical issue, Canadians deserve disclosure and transparency.

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Twitter labels CBC account as government-funded media, April 16

Pierre Poilievre invited foreign interference in Canadian politics when he successfully lobbied Twitter to classify CBC tweets as government funded.

The correct term is publicly funded. CBC is bound by its mandate from Parliament and not by directives of the government of the day. Poilievre should understand this because he too is paid by Parliament and he is free to blather whatever he wishes.

Robert Froom, Ottawa

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Negotiated settlement is the only way to end the war in Ukraine, April 14

Thomas Walkom, like most other people of reason and compassion, wants the tragedy in Ukraine to end.

But its naively based on the assumption that Russian President Vladimir Putin would negotiate a peace with Ukraine in good faith, then abide by the agreement.

Putins illegal war started in Crimea in 2014, in contravention of the 1991 accord between Ukraine and Russia recognizing sovereign borders. The next violation was the Russian invasion of 2022, still raging today.

Every ceasefire has been violated by Russia, usually the next day. In the last century, a European dictator acted just as duplicitously, and we all know how that turned out.

There will be a durable peace in Ukraine some day, but it will have to be with Russia after Putin, if it is to last.

Bill Hozy, Toronto

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Twitter labels CBC account as government-funded media, April 16

Opposition Leader Pierre Poilievre feels he needs to tell us that taxpayers support the CBC. Does he think we dont know this, and he with his superior intellect has to enlighten us?

I suggest he change his Twitter feed to read Pierre Poilievre, government-funded politician.

Maria Pede, Woodbridge

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You might think that a week when video evidence of Russian soldiers beheading a Ukrainian prisoner came to light would be a poor moment to single out the United States and Europe for special blame in perpetuating the terrible, costly conflict in Ukraine.

But not, apparently, if youre the progressive, peace-loving president of Brazil, known to friend and foe alike simply as Lula.

The very same Lula capped off a visit to Beijing by wagging a finger at Washington and saying the U.S. needs to stop encouraging war and start talking about peace. The European Union should do the same, he opined.

Who cares what the president of Brazil says about Ukraine, one could reasonably ask. But its important because he voiced a strain of thinking thats widespread both around the world and closer to home.

According to this logic, blaming Russia alone for the war is superficial and simplistic. No, you have to go back and see that the U.S. and NATO backed Vladimir Putin into a corner and are equally responsible for his decision to launch a full-scale invasion of Ukraine 14 months ago.

The logical conclusion, spread by Lula and many others, on both the far right and especially the far left, is that supplying weapons to Ukraine is just fuelling the war, which is stuck at the moment in a bloody stalemate. We should be encouraging peace, not war, goes the thinking.

These days that line of thought usually involves pointing out the blazingly obvious fact that almost all conflicts eventually end through negotiations. So, were asked to conclude, lets a) stop sending more weapons to Ukraine, and b) call for talks, not continued fighting.

In the real world, of course, as opposed to the world of fine intentions, cutting off military aid to Ukraine would amount to abandoning that country to its fate. Theres no counterweight on the other side, ready to apply equal pressure on Russia to roll back its invasion.

Just as obviously, leaning on Ukraine to engage in peace talks now, when Russia still occupies great swaths of Ukrainian territory and is fighting for more, would cement Moscows advantage and reward its unprovoked invasion. Those who think this is the best (indeed, the most moral) path forward should at least admit that.

But does that mean acquiescing in a future that involves war without end and the eventual destruction of Ukraine? Of course not.

At least begin with a realistic assessment of the state of the war and how effective the U.S.-NATO strategy has been (as opposed to the public rhetoric wrapped around it).

The recently leaked classified Pentagon documents offer a very sobering assessment. One, from Feb. 23, confirms the two sides are essentially stalemated, locked in a grinding campaign of attrition.

But its not because western countries, including Canada, have provided all possible military aid to Ukraine. Rather, theyve been wary from the start of escalating the war. The U.S. has been terrified of getting into direct military conflict with Russia. The West has been cowed by Russias repeated threats to go nuclear. Its engaged in whats been called a strategy for stalemate  giving Ukraine just enough to survive, but not enough to win.

As a result, Ukraine has had to beg for every bit of military equipment. The heavy stuff (tanks, armoured vehicles) took months to start coming, and most isnt there yet. The Ukrainians have a severe shortage in such areas as air defence and ammunition. Its a testament to their fighting spirit and Russian incompetence that theyve done as well as they have.

What the Ukrainians need now is more firepower, not less. Its an open secret theyre preparing a spring counteroffensive, and they need enough weaponry to deliver a heavy blow to Russian forces. That would set the stage for Ukraine to enter talks towards peace, or at least a halt to the fighting, from a position of greater strength.

The Lulas of the world, in other words, have it exactly backwards. Only stepping up aid to Ukraine now will open the path toward peace and stop the bloodletting.

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jetcityimage / iStock.com

Those participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will find many items that are eligible for purchase at Costco. All Costco locations accept EBT cards and adhere to the states laws on what can be purchased. Even if you dont have an EBT card specifically, whatever you load your SNAP benefits onto can be used at Costco.

$2,000 Quarter? Check Your Pockets Before You Use This 2004 Coin

Read More: How To Build a Financial Plan From Zero

Buying at Costco specifically can be beneficial since purchasing items in bulk can save you more money than getting them at the local grocery store. Heres a look at the best items you can buy at Costco with an EBT or similar card.

Frito Lay Oven Baked Mix, Variety Pack, 30-count

Price: $22.99

For what comes out to about $0.77 a bag, you can eat a wide variety of potato chips. Flavors in this pack include Baked Lays Original, Cheetos, Baked Lays Barbecue, Cheddar & Sour Cream Ruffles and Flamin Hot Cheetos.

BIG Ground Beef Patties, 1/3 lb Patty, 30-count

Price: $37.99

Eat 30 burgers for just under $40. Plus, you can freeze them and save them for when youre having people over.

Kirkland Signature Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil, 2 Liter

Price: $19.49

Be prepared with two liters of this cooking staple so you never run out in the middle of preparing a meal again. Costcos brand of olive oil is cold-pressed with a rich taste.

Wonderful Pistachios, Salt & Pepper, 3 lbs

Price: $21.79

Stay stocked on snacks with three pounds of seasoned pistachios. Add them to your lunch as a side or keep them handy for when you need something to hold you over until dinner. These are also kosher, gluten-free and non-GMO.

Poptarts, Strawberry Pack, 48-count

Price: $11.99

When you shop at Costco, you can keep a big stash of these breakfast favorites in your pantry.

Chex Mix, 40 oz.

Price: $8.99

Get all your favorite salty snacks in one super-sized bag of The Original Chex Mix. Perfect for snacking while watching TV or to have in a bowl when friends come over.

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Quaker Oats Instant Oatmeal, Variety Pack, 52-count

Price: $13.89

Love oatmeal? You can load up on three flavors: apples & cinnamon, maple & brown sugar and cinnamon & spice. Even if you have oatmeal every day, youre completely set for two months with this variety pack. Plus, this is $4 off the usual price.

Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal, 2-count

Price: $9.69

In a grocery store, you might pay between $7-8 for one box of Cinnamon Toast Crunch, but at Costco, you basically get two boxes for the price of one.

Yoplait Original Low Fat Yogurt, Variety, 24-count

Price: $13.49

Get basically twice the amount of yogurt you would get in the grocery store. This pack comes with three flavors: Harvest Peach, Strawberry and French Vanilla.

Kelloggs Eggo Waffles, 72-count

Price: $14.99

Breakfast is served for days with this pack of 72 waffles. These are Eggos Homestyle flavor. Buying them at Costco comes out to $2.14 a pound.

Babybel Mini Snack Cheese, White Cheddar, 36-count

Price: $15.99

Get 36 of these protein-packed snacks for a fraction of the price youll pay at the grocery store price. Pack them in kids lunches or just have them between meals.

Tropicana 100% Orange Juice, 96 oz, 2-count

Price: $13.99

Ensure plenty of 100% pure orange juice is available with this deal at Costco. This works out to be about $0.07 per ounce.

Kirkland Signature Organic Cranberry Juice Cocktail, 96 fl oz, 2-count

Price: $9.99

If you love cranberry juice, this is an incredible deal. This is one of the many examples where youre saving by buying Costcos Kirkland Signature brand. This juice is not from concentrate and is USDA Organic.

Capri Sun Variety Pack  40 Count

Price: $16.99

Capri Sun is always a refreshing drink in the hot sun for the kids. This variety pack comes with 40 pouches in 3 flavors: fruit punch, berry and apple.

Kirkland Signature 100% Colombian Coffee, Dark Roast, 3 lbs

Price: $16.99

Stow away three pounds of coffee and wake up every morning glad you did. This comes out to $5.66 a pound or about the cost of a coffee at a coffee shop. Enjoy this dark roast for months.

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: The 15 Best Things To Buy With SNAP at Costco
By far Europes largest economy, Germany is in a state of transition in terms of foreign policy. The shock of the Russian invasion of Ukraine for Berlin in the security, economic, and humanitarian domains has been severe.

As a consequence, the rearming of Germany ~ following the path of its fellow Axis Power during World War II, Japan, which has come a long way from its pacifist Constitution with the release of its 2022 National Security Strategy ~ is laden with historical irony.

It is also a reflection of how fundamental the geopolitical impact of the rise of China and its alliance with Russia has been for Germany. Germanys 100 billion pledge in military investment, raising its defence allocation to 2 per cent of its GDP, will, when fully deployed, give it the largest defence budget in the world after that of the USA and China.

Going ahead, the impact of the extent of German rearming on the countrys future trajectory and its implications for its partners including India will be consequential. Traditionally, opinion polls have shown there is an aversion to Germany rearming among a population still collectively guiltstricken by the horrors perpetuated by the Nazi regime.

But Russias invasion of Ukraine seems to have marked a shift in the German leaderships approach towards the nations security-military requirements. That Berlins conciliatory approach towards Moscow despite Russias annexation of Crimea in 2014 did nothing to prevent Russian President Vladimir Putins so-called special military operation in Ukraine seems to have impacted popular sentiment too. This was apparent in the Zeitenwende (turn of an era) speech by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in February 2022, which signalled a reorientation of Germanys hitherto rather passive security and foreign policies.

To start with, came the announcement on raising the defence budget. The initial pusillanimity of the government in the wake of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, when it appeared hesitant to supply heavy weaponry to Kiev and was indecisive about introducing fierce sanctions against Moscow, has passed. Berlin has also now ensured it is no longer dependent on Russia for energy.

Germany, as it eases off on efforts to establish a so-called European super state and focuses on adding military heft to its considerable economic might, could make a compelling case for India to act in concert with it in a Europe-Asia

Intermediate Powers alliance to negotiate the geostrategic flux which has accompanied the emergent Sino-US confrontation and Russo-Chinese axis. The stumbling block for such an alliance, however, is Germanys trade overdependence on China ~ with which it incurred a trade deficit of 84 billion in 2022 ~ much like its energy overdependence on Russia till the Ukraine war. Trade between Germany and China rose to a record level in 2022 making the Asian giant Germanys most important trading partner for the seventh year in a row despite warnings in Berlin about excessive dependence. Goods worth 298 billion were traded between the two countries, up around 21 per cent from 2021. In 2022, Germany imported goods worth 191 billion from China, a third more than in 2021.

Exports of German goods to China, though, increased by only 3.1 per cent to around 107 billion. A major cause for German overdependence on China is critical raw materials or rare earth elements, a group of 17 metals which are essential components for semiconductors, batteries, electronics, renewable energy technologies, and defence/GPS equipment.

Germanys transition to cleaner energy and transport depends on this critical raw material and it imports about two-third of its requirement for rare earth elements from China, which has a dominant hold on the market with 60 per cent of global production and 85 per cent of processing capacity. In 2021, global demand for rare earths reached 125,000 metric tons.

By 2030, it is forecast to reach 315,000 tonnes. These figures suggest the need for Delhi to adopt a circumspect policy approach towards Germany despite recent talk in the Berlin establishment about reassessing the countrys decades-long engagement with China and pivoting towards India against the backdrop of great power rivalry.

Sino-German economic decoupling will not be accomplished in a day, as it were, even if Berlin is au courant that the cost of passivity in the face of Chinas concerted attempt to reshape the international order outweighs the commercial benefits of trading with Beijing. The issue is: Has Germany truly grasped that its accommodative approach towards autocracies ~ whether out of economic self-interest or in the interest of conflict-management by engaging deeply with them ~ is subject to the law of diminishing returns? Further, has Berlin understood how damaging overdependence on absolutist states is?

If, however, over the coming months and years, there are clearer signs that Germany can wean itself off its trade overdependence on China as it did visa-vis its energy overdependence on Russia, there could emerge an opportunity to significantly deepen and broaden Indo-German strategic engagement. At the bilateral level, IndoGerman ties are proceeding apace.

The early German commitment to Skill India, Digital India, the Smart Cities initiative, and Namami Gange were welcomed by Delhi, as was the German support of 1 billion for Indias solar energy programmes. The Green and Sustainable Development Partnership announced in May 2022 brought an additional 10 billion from Berlin to the table.

But should India and Germany be satisfied with a business-as-usual attitude in an unstable, even volatile global geopolitical scenario? India-Germany trade was pegged at $24.85 billion in 2021-22 ~ just Berlins trade deficit with Beijing is more than three times that figure, to put the numbers into perspective. On the face of it, there lies room for a massive upside.

If India can rapidly transform itself ~ with a special focus on reforming labour/land legislation and growing its green footprint ~ into the preferred destination for Germanys China+1 strategy, it could attract the capital, technological prowess, and human resource upskilling expertise required to make the country a manufacturing hub of scale. The size of the Indian market is a major attraction for German businesses.

Germany, apart from being a technology power, is also a source of climate change finance which is sorely needed by India in its sustainable growth journey.

[The writer is a Fellow at the Pahle Indian Foundation]
-- KEGS' War of 1812 Amber Ale Wins Top Prize in the American Style Amber/Red Ale Category --

WATERTOWN, NY / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / 1812 BREWING COMPANY, INC. (OTC PINK:KEGS) (the "Company" or "KEGS") is pleased to announce that the Company earned "2023 New York Amber Ale Brewery of the Year" award for its War of 1812 Amber Ale, which earned the top medal in its category in the 2023 New York International Beer Competition held in Rockefeller Center. This competition was open to all commercially produced beer, cider and mead from around the world. 1812 Brewing Company entered its War of 1812 Amber Ale in the "American Style Amber / Red Ale" category, where it was awarded the top medal in that category.

1812 Brewing Company Inc., Tuesday, April 18, 2023, Press release picture

"To have earned this award from the New York International Beer Competition is very exciting," stated Chairman and CEO Tom Scozzafava. "Not only is this validation of the quality of our 1812 Amber, but it further shows the product's potential in the marketplace. The fact that the competition is judged by actual beer buyers reflects that."

1812 Brewing Company recently announced that it has partnered with TapRm.com, a direct-to-consumer e-commerce and logistics company for distribution of War of 1812 Amber Ale that covers most areas of 45 states plus Washington DC. Customers can order the 1812 Amber Ale directly for shipment to your home or restaurant at:

https://1812-brewing.taprm.com/all-products

About the New York International Beer Competition :

The 2023 New York International Beer Competition had 700+ entries from over 15 countries competing in nearly 30 categories. The competition had the top beer buyers and trade professionals judging the products by their category and price point. This contest is the only international beer competition using the authorized categories of the United States Brewer Association (USABM) and where all the judges are real trade buyers who are judging the beer by category and actual price. These judges are buyers from the top New York Area liquor stores, restaurants, hotels and more.

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About 1812 Brewing Company ("KEGS or the "Company") :

KEGS is an operator of and investor in companies in the craft beer industry. The Company seeks to build a nation-wide network of craft breweries to develop and foster respective brand growth at the local, regional, and national level. KEGS looks to build a network wherein certain economies of scale can be shared across it such as production, distribution footprint expansion, inter-member contract brewing, new product development, sharing of best brewery practices and scale logistics and transportation. The network is to be built through investment by 1812 Brewing Company while maintaining the members' respective local and regional uniqueness, brand autonomy and direct involvement with its consumers. The Company seeks to be an "incubator" of growth for its holdings in the industry.

The Company's current holding, 1812 Brewing Co., produces award-winning beers such as War of 1812 Amber Ale ("1812 Amber Ale"), 1812 Light, Hazy Oasis Pale Ale, Thousand Islands IPA, Malicious Intent XX IPA, Route 11 Lager, Railroad Red Ale, Helles Bells Pilsner, St. Stephens Stout, Third Rail Porter, Featherhammer Maibock.

For more updates follow us on our Website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Linkedin.

https://www.kegsnetwork.com/

https://www.facebook.com/kegsnetwork/

https://www.instagram.com/kegsnetwork/

https://twitter.com/kegsnetwork

https://www.1812ale.com/

https://www.facebook.com/1812brewingcompany/

https://www.instagram.com/1812brewingcompany/

https://twitter.com/1812Brewing

https://www.linkedin.com/company/1812brewingcompany/

Contact:

Contact Name: Tom Scozzafava

Contact Phone Number: 315-788-1812

Contact Email Address: contact@1812ale.com

Safe Harbor: This release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 27E of the Securities Act of 1934. Statements contained in this release that are not historical facts may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain. Actual performance and results may differ materially from that projected or suggested herein due to certain risks and uncertainties including, without limitation, ability to obtain financing and regulatory and shareholder approval for anticipated actions.

SOURCE: 1812 Brewing Company Inc.





View source version on accesswire.com:

https://www.accesswire.com/749774/1812-Brewing-Company-Wins-New-York-Amber-Ale-Brewery-of-the-Year-Award-at-the-2023-New-York-International-Beer-Competition




Taiwanese president Tsai Ingwen, transiting through the USA, met the Speaker of the US House of Representatives, Kevin McCarthy, in Los Angeles earlier this month, despite strong protests from Beijing. Tsai was visiting Guatemala and Belize and as part of her schedule, she had a stopover in the US.

Well before her visit, China had warned that any bilateral between her and the speaker would be responded to. The McCarthy-Tsai meeting also included other members of Congress. China considers Taiwan as a rogue province and has not ruled out employment of force for reunification. Few nations recognize Taiwan as an independent state.

The US does not recognize Beijings claim over Taiwan, but admits that it exists. It is currently providing Taiwan with military equipment to boost its military capabilities to counter Chinese aggression. There are also US military personnel on the island, training Taiwanese forces. President Biden has been noncommittal on US support. Since assuming her presidency in 2016, Tsai has made six similar transit visits through the US.

Though her visits have not been accorded official status, she has always met influential members of the US government. Tsai was also awarded with a global leadership award at the Hudson Institute in New York during the current visit. McCarthys predecessor, Nancy Pelosi, visited Taiwan in August last year, also against Chinese warnings. It led to China conducting a series of exercises off Taiwan resulting in a few missiles landing in Japanese waters eliciting a strong diplomatic response.

The fact that Pelosis visit was just before the Chinese National Congress which was expected to give Xi Jinping an unprecedented third term, added to tensions. McCarthy has also announced his intention to visit the island in the future. McCarthy as the speaker of the house of representatives is third in line to the US presidency, after the vice president, and hence China considers it an affront.

China claims that such interactions are against the one-China principle and harms Chinas sovereignty and territorial integrity, and destroys peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. Chinas Washington embassy spokesperson warned, No matter (if) it is the Taiwan leaders coming to the United States or the US leaders visiting Taiwan, it could lead to another serious collision in the China-US relationship (in case the meeting takes place). McCarthy in response countered, China cant tell me where or when to go.

Chinas Global Times in anticipation of the meeting stated, China has repeatedly stressed that we are firmly opposed to any form of official contact between the US and the Taiwan authorities. The Chinese spokesperson mentioned in a briefing, (China) strongly opposes all forms of US contact with Taiwan authorities, which violates the one-China principle.

The spokesperson threatened, No one and no force can hold back Chinas reunification. There is no doubt that the US is conveying a message through the McCarthy-Tsai meeting that while it respects the Chinese viewpoint, it is unwilling to bow to Chinese demands. In addition, as it did with the Pelosi visit, it is willing to call the Chinese bluff. The US expects China to huff and puff and display some muscle flexing but nothing more.

The Chinese economy has yet to recover and casualties, in case of any military action, may be more than the Chinese public could bear. China is unlikely to venture into a conflict which it cannot win outright. The US also realizes that China would have learnt lessons from Russias invasion of Ukraine and would therefore not attempt any serious military action.

As with the Pelosi visit, the US would blame China for enhancing tensions in the region. It was Chinese exercises, post the Pelosi visit, which acted as a catalyst for Tokyo to enhance its security commitments and also brought states in dispute with China closer to the US. China had to adopt face-saving measures. It could not let the incident pass without a response. Its military exercises post the Pelosi visit angered Western nations resulting in a slew of visits to Taiwan from members of the European community, while China just protested and watched. Beijing, as expected, repeated the exercises, however on a reduced scale.

One reason why China reduced its scale of current exercises was that around the time of Tsais US visit, Taiwans former president, Ma Ying-jeou, visited Beijing. He was president from 2008-2016 and is the first Taiwanese sitting or ex-president to visit Beijing. His delegation included students and they were accorded a warm welcome by China. Mas political party, KMT, is Taiwans main opposition party and favours closer ties with China, while denying it is pro-Beijing. Ma had met Xi Jinping while in office. If Beijing had adopted a strong posture against Taiwan, it could enhance anger towards it and reduce chances of KMT returning to power in elections due in January 2024. Alternatively, it could create a sense of fear benefitting the KMT. Beijing chose the safer route. A military offensive is also unlikely, as if it falters it could drag China into an unending conflict as with Russia in Ukraine. Japan is likely to intervene as the loss of Taiwan could threaten its own existence.

Taiwan would also receive support from the US and other western nations. This could damage China in a similar manner as Russia. Within the US there were also issues. While President Biden is a Democrat, McCarthy is Republican. The presidential race has commenced. The China policy would be played up. Any political party displaying a soft corner could be impacted.

Thus, while President Biden hoped the meeting would not take place, he hesitated to advise McCarthy officially. For McCarthy, displaying a strong antiChina stance benefits him and his partys position. Both China and the US have been dealt different cards by Taiwan. China had to act to save face. If it did not, it would send the wrong message and weaken its claim over Taiwan. Its response also had to be calibrated so as not to cross limits. For the US, it was a political battle with upcoming elections. The only real winner was Tsai.

(The writer is a retired Major-General of the Indian Army.)
The BJP-led central government is using its agencies such as Central Bureau Investigation (CBI) and Enforcement Directorate (ED) against opposition leaders only but not others who belong to the saffron party.

While reacting to the arrest of the Trinamul Congress MLA Jiban Krishna Saha by the CBI on Monday, the chief minister told reporters, They are using the agencies against all. They send the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to inquiry even after a chocolate bomb bursts. Our party MLAs are being targeted by the investigating agencies but no one from the BJP.

Interestingly, Miss Banerjee slammed the central government hardly one hour after the CBI sent a notice to her nephew and national general secretary of Trinamul Congress Abhishek Banerjee to appear at Nizam Palace around 11 am on Tuesday in connection with his alleged involvement in the coal smuggling scam. Without taking the name of BJP MLA Suvendu Adhikari, the chief minister said, He is a big dacoit and a chief advisor to the Union home minister Amit Shah.

The central investigating agencies are targeting our party leaders with his (Suvendu) instructions. Its a well-planned move of the BJP to buy MLAs belonging to the opposition camps.

Thats why they are targeting opposition leaders. Arvind Kejriwal has already been interrogated by the agency, she alleged. She urged all anti-BJP forces to get united to fight against the saffron party in next Lok Sabha elections. We can defeat BJP if all opposition parties get united in the coming Lok Sabha elections in 2024, the chief minister added.
Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Monday expressed confidence that the government will meet the target of providing petrol blended with 20 per cent ethanol by 2025, five years earlier than the deadline of 2030.

Addressing a conference on biofuels, Puri said he was confident that government will be able to supply 20 per cent ethanol blended petrol by next financial year.

In February, petrol blended with 20 per cent ethanol was rolled out at selective pumps in 11 states, to promote awareness about green fuels.

As of now, 10 per cent ethanol is blended in petrol.

Meanwhile, Puri further said that India had achieved blending of 10 per cent ethanol in petrol in June 2022, five months ahead of the schedule.

Ethanol blended petrol is expected to reduce carbon monoxide emission in two wheelers by 50 per cent and 30 per cent in four-wheelers.
The Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) has submitted a chargesheet against Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) legislator from Bathinda Rural, Amit Rattan Kotfatta (42) who was arrested on bribery charges in February and his personal assistant (PA), Rashim Garg in a local court on Bathinda.

Disclosing this on Tuesday, a spokesperson of the VB said the Bathinda range VB team had registered a corruption case against the AAPs member of legislative assembly (MLA) and his PA on 16 February after the latter (Garg) was arrested for accepting a bribe of Rs Four lakh. During the investigation, the MLA was also arrested in this case on 20 February as his PA had received the bribe on behalf of the MLA.

The spokesperson said a grant of Rs 25 lakh was issued by the state government under the 15th Finance Commission during the year 2022-23 to village Ghuda, district Bathinda, whose bills were pending.

The MLAs PA, Garg, had demanded a bribe of Rs Five lakh from the Sarpanch of village Ghuda. Garg was arrested red-handed by the VB on 16 February while he was receiving a bribe of Rs Four lakh in lieu of to facilitate release of said grant. The said Sarpanch had already given Rs 50,000 as demanded by the PA.

The spokesperson said that during the investigation of this case, it has came to light that this bribe was obtained by Garg on the directions of MLA Amit Ratan. This apart, Garg had received a bribe of Rs 2,50,000 from Gurdas Singh of village Ghuda for getting him the Numberdari of his village.

On the basis of findings of alleged bribes, the VB has added another section of 120-B of IPC in the said case and nominated the MLA Amit Ratan in the present case and thereafter arrested on 22 February from Shambhu. Both the accused are in judicial custody and in jail. Further investigation of this case was under progress, he said.
The ongoing spring season in Ladakh brought the residents of various regions of the cold desert area an opportunity to showcase their rich culture and tradition for the tourists from across the globe.

While everything in the region is decked up to attract tourists, nothing beats apricot. Apricot blossoms are a feast for the eyes. Pictures of the bloom are flooding social media these days.

Against the backdrop of the dark brown mountains and deep blue sky, the pink and whitish flowers blooming on the apricot trees look amazing. In a few days these flowers will transform into high quality yellow and orange fruit to be harvested and sold around the world.

To promote it as an event to increase footfall of tourists, the Apricot blossom is being celebrated by various departments of the Union Territory (UT) on the lines of the Cherry Blossom festival of Japan.

Events linked with display of local culture are being held across Ladakh including Turtuk that till the 1971 war was part of the Gilgit-Baltistan area that is under the illegal occupation of Pakistan, Tyakshi, Dha and Biama in the Leh district and Garkhone, Darchik, Sanjak, Hardass and Karkichoo in the Kargil district.

The blossom is celebrated in the Dha village where tourists get the opportunity to witness the culture of the extinct Aryan race. The community lives in the Dha and Hanu villages and their population has dwindled to about 2,000. The Drokpa or Brokpa community is racially and culturally distinct from the common Ladakhis. The community has a unique sense of dressing. Especially women make it a practice to wear flowers on their hats.

Lt. Governor of Ladakh Brigadier BD Mishra (Retd) and his wife Neelam Mishra in the past few days participated in the apricot blossom festivals organised in various villages of the Kargil district. The LG assured of all possible assistance in seeking Geographical Indication (GI) certification for the Halman Apricot, the best quality fruit of Kargil, from the Government of India.

The LG attended the festival organised by the tourism department in the Chanigund and Tamachik villages of Kargil district. He highlighted the issue of climate change and global warming resulting in scarcity of water. He emphasised the need to keep sources of water clean.

The LG also emphasised the need for the plantation of saplings by every individual to increase the green cover in Ladakh.

It is worth mentioning here that Ladakh is home to the Halman variety of apricot in the Kargil district, while the sweetest Raktsey Karpo variety is liked in the Leh district. Almost every household in Ladakh has apricot trees in their yard. The fruit is generally sun-dried or turned into jam or simple desserts. Apricot has over the years played a vital role in the economy of Ladakh. The high quality apricot of the cold desert region is considered superior to the produce of other places. Ladakhis generally sun dry their apricots instead of mechanical methods.

Some enterprising Ladakhis are earning money not only by selling their produce but have also introduced apricot village home stay for tourists who have the feel about the traditions and culture of the local communities.

It is believed that apricot, known locally as Chulli, was introduced in Ladakh over a century ago by Chinese traders passing through the Silk Route.
Atiq Ahmeds killers had a long connection with crime and in their desire to become popular, they executed the killings on April 15 while the gangster-turned-politician and his brother Ashraf were in custody of Uttar Pradesh Police in Prayagraj, sources said on Monday.

Atiq and Ashraf were killed by three assailants, who posed as mediapersons, while the gangsters were being taken for medical checkup in Prayagraj medical college. The killers, identified as Arun Maurya, Sunny Singh and Lavlesh Tiwari, wanted to become gangsters and came together to hatch the plot to kill Atiq, sources said.

Lavlesh Tiwari already used to run his gang with around 50 boys. However, he wanted to become a big criminal, so he carried out the murder of Atiq Ahmed and Ashraf, a police source said.

The sources said Lavlesh Tiwari was earlier jailed for slapping a girl and numerous cases pertaining to assault, excise, molestation are registered against him.

He is a drug addict, the source said.

Sunny Singh is connected to the Bhati gang and he shot Ashraf, police sources said.

According to the police, Sunny Singh has 14 cases registered against him and is a left-handed shooter.

He used to work in a tea stall earlier. After that he started working as a helper in a truck and eventually joined the world of crime. When he went to jail for a crime, he met Sundar Bhati there. He (Sunny) shot a man named Babu Yadav, because of which he was jailed, the source said.

Sunny Singh was arrested for the first time in 2016 in a robbery case. He preferred to be called Purane Thakur, the sources said.

They said that Arun Maurya was inducted into the world of crime by Sunny Singh.

Both had met in Panipat. Earlier also two cases were registered against Arun Maurya in Panipat. After their meeting in Panipat, they met Sodhi, a resident of Meerut, who provided them a foreign pistol, the source said.

The police are now ascertaining if someone else was also involved in the plan to kill Atiq Ahmed and Ashraf. The three youth were arrested by police.

Atiq Ahmed was shot at least eight times with bullet injuries found in his head, neck and chest, according to preliminary results of an autopsy conducted on his body after his sensational murder that was caught on news cameras outside a hospital in Uttar Pradeshs Prayagraj on April 15.

Sources said on Monday that three bullets pierced the body of Ashraf, the brother of Atiq during the shootout that took place late on Saturday outside the hospital where police had taken them for a routine medical check-up. Both the gangsters collapsed on the spot after they were shot at nearly point-blank range.

According to sources, the initial postmortem report detailed that Atiq was shot eight times and Ashraf five times. Out of the eight bullets that Atiq was shot, one bullet hit his head, one bullet hit his neck, one bullet each on his chest, stomach and waist, sources said. The attackers were subsequently caught by police.

Both Atiq and Ashraf were buried on April 16 at the Kasari Masari burial ground in Prayagraj.

According to the initial post-mortem report, Ashraf was shot in his neck, back and waist in which the bullets pierced his body and went past him.

Police are awaiting a detailed report of the autopsy, sources said.

Uttar Pradesh government has ordered a judicial probe into the killings. Uttar Pradesh police authorities have also announced formation of two special investigating teams (SITs) to probe the killings.
A protest march taken out here by Congress on Tuesday seeking a high-level probe into the tragic Pulwama attack was stopped midway by the police on its way to the Raj Bhavan.

The march was held in the wake of allegations of serious security lapses leading to the terrorist attack on a convoy of the CRPF levelled by the then governor of J&K Satyapal Malik. As many as 40 CRPF personnel had lost their lives in the attack.

The Congress protest came after Malik, during interview with various media houses, pointed out serious lapses that led to the terror attack.

PCC chief Vikar Rasool Wani led the protest march that was organised by the district Congress (Rural & Urban), Jammu, on the silence of the BJP government on the sensitive issue.

Manoj Yadav, Secretary AICC, PCC working president Raman Bhalla, Former Ministers Mula Ram and Yogesh Sawhney, former MP Tarlok Singh Bajwa, former legislators Ravinder Sharma and Thakur Balwan Singh were among those who participated in the protest organised under the Jai Bharat Satyagraha.

However, police barricaded the road and stopped them from proceeding towards the Raj Bhavan.

Addressing the protestors, Wani sought a response from the Centre on the sensational allegations by Satyapal Malik about the Pulwama Attack. Terming it deeply disturbing, the PCC President said that the martyrdom of 40 CRPF personnel should not be disrespected and there needs to be an immediate inquiry on the claim of Malik that cannot be pushed under the rug.

Manoj Yadav, Secretary AICC, said that it must be investigated if intelligence inputs had been ignored by the Modi Government prior to the Pulwama incident. There is a need for accountability and the BJP government cannot get away with silence.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved a proposal for bringing in industry-friendly reforms in the Authority Holding Sealed Particulars (AHSP) to further promote ease of doing business.

The AHSP is the authority which is responsible for generating, maintaining, updating or declaring obsolete the entire history and technical information of defence products.

So far, the Directorate General of Quality Assurance (DGQA) was the AHSP for the majority of defence items designed, developed and manufactured by various DPSUs and private industries.

Under the existing procedure, certain bottlenecks were experienced by the industry to bring timely improvements in their products and technologies in line with changing times. Therefore, the MoD has decided now to liberalise the AHSP procedures and make it industry-friendly.

The Indian defence companies, which have developed products, systems, subsystems, and components on their own indigenous capabilities (except critical stores), will now be allowed to own and account for their final designs and specification as AHSP.

In case of any change in the sealed particulars, a simplified mechanism representing all the concerned stakeholders, including the industry, will take a decision. The DGQA will notify the detailed procedure in this regard within two months.

The DGQA has also been asked to examine all AHSPs with them and rationalise the entire list within two months. They have been, further, advised to transfer the AHSP to the industry at the earliest. It will be another significant step for the government to further encourage ease of doing business.
The Supreme Court has issued notice to Delhi government on a plea by the Communist Party of India (Marxist) leader Brinda Karat, seeking registration of FIRs against Union Minister Anurag Thakur and BJP MP Parvesh Singh Verma for their alleged hate speech in the backdrop of the protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act and Delhi riots that followed in the year 2020.

While issuing notice, a bench of Justice KM Joseph and Justice BV Nagarathna on Monday observed that the reasoning of courts below that sanction under Section 196 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) was required may not be correct.

Goli Maro Desh Ke Gaddaro was not in terms of medicine prescription, certainly as gaddar means traitor I believe, Justice Joseph remarked while interpreting Thakurs remark.

Brinda Karat has approached the top court along with KM Tiwari against a June 2022 Delhi High Court order which had rejected their plea. Both Karat and Tiwari had moved the High Court challenging a trial court decision that had refused to order registration of FIRs against the two BJP leaders.

The speeches by the two leaders were made during the Delhi assembly elections in 2020, when the anti-Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) protests were ongoing in the national capital.

The High Court in its ruling had expressed concern at the petitioners bypassing remedies under the CrPC in this case, terming it a trend and a worrying phenomenon that has gained traction and is in vogue these days.

Further, the polices status report had found that no cognisable offence had been made out.
Sending out a strong message to China, which recently attempted to rename 11 places in Arunachal Pradesh in a fresh attempt to lay claim on sovereign Indian territory, a group of top Himalayan Buddhist leaders on Monday visited the state and held a day-long national conference on Nalanda Buddhism Tradition at Gorsam Stupa, Zemithang in Arunachal Pradeshs Tawang district on Monday.

Its rare for top Himalayan Buddhist leaders to come together in such big numbers in the border state and the meeting on Monday is being seen as a clear and unambiguous message to China after its renaming attempt.

The day-long conference, attended by about 600 delegates, is also being seen as an attempt to give a strong push to Himalayan Buddhism.

Zemithang in Arunachal is the last village in India, along the Indo-China border.

In December 2022, Chinese PLA troops clashed with Indian forces on the Line of Actual Control (LAC), in the Tawang sector of Arunachal Pradesh.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh later issued a statement saying that the Chinese troops tried to unilaterally change the status quo on the LAC and the bid was successfully foiled by the Indian forces.

The conference was attended by delegates of revered Rinpoches, Geahes, Khenpos and scholars from all the Himalayan states of Himachal Pradesh, Ladakh (Union Territory), Uttarakhand, Jammu and Kashmir (Paddar-Pangi), Sikkim, North Bengal (Darjeeling, Doors, Jaigaon and Kalimpong), Densa South India Monasteries and 35 delegates from various parts of Arunachal Pradesh like Tuting, Mechuka, Taksing and Anini and others.

Arunachal Chief Minister Pema Khandu said the Buddhist culture, which thrives on the peaceful co-existence of every sentient being, should not only be preserved but also propagated.

Khandu said the state has a big chunk of the Buddhist population and fortunately they have kept their culture and traditions safe with religious fervour.

The main pillar on which Nalanda Buddhism stands is the principle of reasoning and analysis. This means we can even bring the teachings of Lord Buddha under the ambit of reasoning and analysis. This logic is based on science and perhaps Buddhism is the only religion that gives its followers this liberty, Khandu said.

Welcoming the delegates, the chief minister said Arunachal Pradesh is home to a mix of religious followers.

Arunachal Pradesh is not home only to Buddhism but to several religions, including those who follow their own indigenous faith. I believe that every religion and faith should flourish and exist peacefully. I am proud that we Arunachalis are doing just that, Khandu said.

He expressed gratitude to the Indian Himalayan Council of Nalanda Buddhist Tradition (IHCNBT) for organising the one-day national conference on Nalanda Buddhist tradition on retracing the source in the footsteps of Acharyas: from Nalanda to Himalaya and beyond.

Zemithang, as you might all know, is the last Indian border through which his holiness the 14th Dalai Lama entered India in 1959. Therefore, holding this conference here is significant, Khandu said.

While noting that Buddhism was expanding globally and witnessing an important resurgence in a few traditional areas, Khandu pushed for the need to make its presence more vibrant with roots connected to Nalanda Buddhism.

He insisted that those attending the conference, especially the youth, stay put for the three technical sessions scheduled for the day.

We are blessed to receive his teachings based on ancient Nalanda tradition, CM Khandu said.

He added that great scholars of Nalanda University had developed Nalanda Buddhist traditions and, with time, they went to Tibet and propagated the faith through the great Nalanda gurus such as Acharya Santarakshita, and Nagarjuna, among others.
Sarah Pflug / burst.shopify.com

If youre financially stable and want to take your wealth to the next level, there is a rather easy way to go about it: Sell some of your most valuable goods. Some of these items might be even more valuable than anticipated, enabling you to convert the newly earned cash into investments  and ultimately generating more wealth.

Read: Keep an Eye Out for Rare Dime Worth as Much as $2,000  How To Spot It

More: How To Build a Financial Plan From Zero

We often overlook the potential value of the items weve collected over the years, but what might seem like clutter to us could be a dream purchase for someone else, said Andrew Latham, CFP and managing editor at Supermoney.com.

That luxury watch gathering dust in your drawer, the designer handbag you havent used in years or that vintage audio equipment stored away in the basement could be the key to unlocking a new world of financial opportunities, said Latham.

By identifying and selling these high-value items, not only do you declutter your space, but you also create an opportunity to invest in your future and turn your once-forgotten possessions into long-lasting wealth, added Latham.

Jewelry

I have evaluated thousands of jewelry items and have helped many people turn what they thought was junk jewelry into considerable amounts of cash, said Matt Harris, certified pearl specialist and pearl jewelry designer at Matt Harris Designs.

Harris said that when he ran a consignment store, he came across a lot of people selling either inherited pieces of jewelry they never wear, or pieces  such as engagement rings  that former partners offered, as well as pearls.

Youd be surprised at how many people have no idea what their jewelry is worth, said Harris. Take gold for instance: It is at almost an all-time high, today trading at $2,020 per ounce. Just over 20 years ago throughout 2002 it hovered in the $200s.

In addition to gold, Harris noted that Burmese sapphires, red spinel, Columbian emeralds and many other gemstones have skyrocketed since the 80s but the average jewelry owner has no idea what they have or what it could be worth.

Story continues

Harris recommends going to a reputable consignment store, or to a local gemologist or gem dealer, who can be very valuable in helping turn these old collections into cash.

Take Our Poll: Would You Put All of Your Savings in an Apple Savings Account?

Handbags

The luxury handbag market value is expected to rocket up to $42.48 billion by 2029  from just $22.61 billion in 2021, according to a March 2023 Data Bridge Market Research analysis. If you have old handbags in your closet, now might be the time to check out their worth.

Designer handbags can be a hidden goldmine, said Latham. For instance, a classic Chanel Flap Bag in excellent condition can be resold for up to $5,000, while a limited-edition Hermes Birkin can go for well over $20,000, sometimes even reaching six figures if its a rare piece.

Real Estate

One of the most valuable things to sell is, of course, real estate.

If you own a property that has appreciated in value, selling it can be a great way to unlock the equity you have built up over time, said Jon Morgan, CEO of Venture Smarter. This could include a primary residence, a rental property or even undeveloped land.

How Can You Turn This Cash Into Investments and Generate More Wealth?

There are many other items you could sell, including cars, business assets you dont need anymore, collectibles and art. And once you do, theres an array of possibilities as to how you could turn this cash into more wealth.

For example, Latham said that if you have a collection of designer jewelry worth $10,000 that you no longer wear, selling it and investing in a real estate investment trust (REIT) with an average annual return of 6% could grow your investment to approximately $33,100 in 20 years.

This approach allows you to turn luxury items into a long-term income stream, he added.

Another real estate investment could be rental properties.

The value rarely goes down, its something you can control and theres cash flow every month, said Derek Sall, financial expert and founder of Life And My Finances, adding that you want to buy something that appreciates in value.

Of course, you can also invest in stocks and bonds  which are a great way to grow your wealth over the long term. However, consider investing in a diversified portfolio of stocks and bonds, or working with a financial advisor to develop a customized investment plan, said Morgan. In addition, he suggests that you could invest in a small business startup.

This can be a risky investment, but it has the potential to generate significant returns if the business succeeds, Morgan said.

Finally, Morgan said to consider investing in yourself: your own skills and education.

This could include taking courses or obtaining certifications that can help you advance in your career, or even starting your own business or pursuing a new career path, he said. When it comes to investing, its important to do your research and work with trusted advisors who can help guide you through the process. With the right strategies and mindset, selling assets and investing in new opportunities can be a great way to take your wealth to the next level and achieve your financial goals.

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 3 Things To Sell When Youre Ready To Take Your Wealth to the Next Level
India needs an independent and fearless judiciary reiterated Justice Arjan K. Sikri, former Judge, Supreme Court of India and International Judge, Singapore International Commercial Court at the Dr H.R. Bhardwaj Memorial Lecture held at Jindal Global Law School, O.P. Jindal Global University.

The title of the Dr H.R. Bhardwaj Memorial Lecture delivered by Justice Sikri was Constitutionalism, Democracy and Rights: Role and Responsibilities of the Indian Judiciary.

Justice Arjan K. Sikri observed, The constitution of any country is the highest law of the nation. It is the instrument of governance of a nation state, with its defined objectives and institutions established to accomplish those objectives. Every good system of democracy, also commands that the elected government should follow well recognised precepts. These include following the legal norms and rules because the rule of law applies to elected representatives as well.

More importantly, it is the responsibility of the government of the day to respect human rights such as freedom of speech, right to equality, and the right to life and liberty. It is also important to ensure certain rights to ethnic and other minorities, while adhering to the principles of democracy, thereby giving voice to the opposition as well.

The intellectually engaging lecture was attended by the faculty and students of the Jindal Global Law School which is ranked among the top 100 law schools in the world and number one in India for three years in a row. The students of the Law School were witness to a masterclass in Constitutional Law by one of the leading luminaries of the Indian legal system.

The principle of constitutionalism shows that the government acts within the sphere of powers allocated to it in a constitutional framework, and does not reach the limits of powers prescribed in the Constitution. This brings the necessity of governance by the rule of law, which essentially tells that the society is to be governed by law and not by the whims and fancies of those who govern. All those who exercise powers will have to act within the confines of law. In order to ensure that the rule of law prevails, a good Constitution also ensures that all powers are not in the hands of one institution.

In this lecture, my endeavour is to mention how the Constitution becomes a document of deliberative democracy by incorporating precepts and principles of constitutionalism. How rule of law ensures the attainment of limited government, where people are sovereign, and ultimately how all these cherished values can be achieved only when there is an independent judiciary, which is capable of discharging its functions without being influenced by others. Constitutionalism puts an obligation on the government to act in a manner which achieves social welfare, solidarity, economic equality and social justice. That is why an independent and fearless judiciary is needed in this country.

Defining and explaining constitutionalism thus, Justice Sikri described the role of judiciary in upholding and advancing the spirit of constitutionalism.

The task assigned to the judiciary is to become the final arbiter to decide whether any rights of the people are violated by government or government institutions. This is known as judicial review as we know it, and in many constitutions including the Indian constitution has the power of judicial review. This power is not limited only to the review executive actions, but it extends even to legislative acts as well. Therefore, if a particular act, even by the Parliament or the state legislature, has been enacted, which violates the provisions of the Constitution, the judiciary is given a power to invalidate or declare that particular Act as unconstitutional.

Justice Arjan Sikri was welcomed by the Founding Vice Chancellor of O.P. Jindal Global University, Prof. (Dr.) C. Raj Kumar, who hailed the Late H.R. Bhardwaj as a visionary jurist who as Law Minister oversaw seminal developments in law and governance.

Prof. (Dr.) C. Raj Kumar said, H.R. Bhardwaj was instrumental in the development of O.P. Jindal Global University is a higher educational institution which ensures academic freedom, autonomy and independence. He made yeoman contributions in developing this university which is the result of a philanthropic vision of the founding Chancellor and benefactor, Naveen Jindal. All through his tenure as law minister, he supported the evolution of this institution from its early origins, including the passing of the legislation for the university on January 27, 2009.

Bhardwaj inspired us and constantly supported us in all our endeavours. Today, we are gathered to hear Justice Sikri speak at the memorial lecture instituted in the memory and honour of H.R. Bhardwaj. He was a luminous man who made extraordinary contributions to the advancement of law, justice, legal institutions, legal education and legal profession. He had a very keen interest and commitment towards nurturing institutions, supporting their evolution and their development. I also want to mention that Bhardwaj had a keen sense of history, his contributions in the larger context of 75 years of independence have been truly remarkable. O.P. Jindal Global University prides itself of having been fostered by H.R. Bhardwaj.

Prof. Raj Kumar also warmly welcomed the family of Late H.R. Bhardwaj, including his wife Prafullata Bhardwaj, his son Arun Bhardwaj, grandsons Karan Bhardwaj and Gautam Bhardwaj and their spouses Pallavi Bhardwaj and Vidya Bhardwaj: It is such a special moment for us to have the family of H.R. Bhardwaj to join us in commemorating his life at this seminal memorial lecture.

In his introductory remarks, Professor (Dr.) S.G. Sreejith, Executive Dean, Jindal Global Law School stated, The reading of the Constitution of India should be a pilgrimage for the students of law. Despite us living in a postmodern age of unpredictability and uncertainty, when even our own convictions are under trial, we find consolation in reading the Constitution. Reading the Constitution is reinforcing our faith in our collective aspirations.

The concluding note of thanks was given by the Registrar of O.P. Jindal Global University Prof. Dabiru Sridhar Patnaik.
While taking a dig at governance in Yogi Adityanaths Uttar Pradesh, Telangana Industry Minister KT Rama Rao said Hyderabad was a no-nonsense city that does not tolerate hatred or violence and was tough when it comes to law and order issues.

The minister was making a fervent sales pitch for the city at the inauguration of the permanent office of Citco at Salarpuria Sattva Knowledge City trying to convince Jay Pellar the head of Fund Services of the company to make it the second largest office in the world.

Rao began by saying Hyderabad was a melting pot of diverse people and culture. The city is a melting pot which invites, which assimilates, welcoming anybody from any part of India. Anybody who comes into this city within a matter of no time starts feeling at home, said the minister.

He then went on to add: It is a no-nonsense city. We dont tolerate any kind of hatred, violence any kind of nonsense with respect to law and order  very, very tough and stern when it comes to dealing with such issues.

He reminded the gathering that the city has grown at a tremendous pace since Telangana achieved statehood. According to the minister the number of employees in the technological sector in the city has grown from 3.23 lakh to 10 lakh in the past nine years.

He reminded his audience that Hyderabad was home to the largest campus of Amazon and also the second largest home to Microsoft, Meta, Google, Uber, Qualcomm and so on. And then he urged them to make Hyderabadi Citcos second largest headquarters in the world.

Before signing off, the minister wanted to know if there was anybody from UP in the audience. When only one hand went up he quipped in a light hearted fashion, How did he let you go? Tell Yogi we are taking really good care of you.

In the past, a few election campaigns in Telangana UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has been a star campaigner for BJP who often harped on how Hyderabads name would be changed to Bhagyanagar and how Telangana would be transformed into another UP if BJP comes to power. With the recent spate of encounters and killings in UP hogging the headlines, the BRS leader found a chance to hit back at Yogi Adityanaths governance.
A man who was about to depart from Delhis IGI Airport became extremely agitated during security check, to the point where he informed the airline staff that there was a bomb in his bag.

The incident took place on April 11 when the man, identified as Shiv, was to take a Go First flight (G8-157) to Bagdogra, West Bengal.

According to a complaint lodged by the airline staff, when he was asked to open his bag for a mandatory secondary ladder point check, Shiv got agitated and told them that there was a bomb inside his bag.

The airline staff asked the passenger politely if he was carrying any prohibited items, but he became even more agitated and claimed that there was a bomb in his bag, read the FIR.

The airline staff then followed standard procedure and disallowed Shiv from boarding the plane.

The CISF staff was informed and when they approached the passenger, he allegedly continued to create a disturbance and even threatened the airline staff with termination.

The passenger was then offloaded along with his checked-in baggage and he was escorted to the local police station, the complaint read.

The police then registered a case against the accused passenger and initiated a probe into the incident.
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a notice to Uttar Pradesh government after taking cognizance of complaints against the murder of Atiq Ahmed and his brother Ashraf by miscreants in police custody in Prayagraj district on April 15.

The Commission issued notices to the state director general of police (DGP) and the commissioner of police, Prayagraj on Tuesday calling for the following reports within four weeks time:

(i) detailed report, covering all the aspects leading to death (including time, place and reason for arrest/detention);

(ii) copy of complaint and FIR registered against the deceased;

(iii) copy of arrest memo and inspection memo;

(iv) whether information of arrest was given to family/relatives?;

(v) copy of seizure memo and recovery memo; (vi) copy of medical legal certificate of the deceased;

(vi) copies of all relevant GD extracts (all must be legible and transcribed in English/Hindi);

(vii) Inquest Report;

(viii) Post Mortem Report (typed copy of PMR especially description of injuries must be provided);

(ix) video cassette/CD of post mortem examination;

(x) site plan of scene of occurrence giving all the details;

(xi) chemical & histopathology examination of viscera (if applicable);

(xii) final cause of death based on FSL report; (xiv) magisterial enquiry report (u/s 176(1-A) Cr.PC as amended by Act 25 of 2005.
One crore women from eligible rural households will be mobilised under a new campaign to join Self-Help Groups (SHGs) promoted by the Ministry of Rural Developments Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM).

The campaign Sangathan Se Samridhhi Leaving no Rural Woman Behind, was launched by Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Giriraj Singh as part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav Samaveshi Vikaas.

The special drive, which will go on till 30th June, is touted to bring all vulnerable and marginalized rural households under the SHG fold to enable them to draw benefits provided under the programme.

The campaigns primary objective is to mobilize disadvantaged rural communities unaware of the benefits of the DAY-NRLM programme. The campaign will be organized in all states, with the expectation of forming more than 1.1 lakh SHGs during the period through various interventions.

Giriraj Singh said: I am pleased that on the occasion of celebrating 75 years of Independence, we are launching this Sangathan Se Samriddhi campaign to mobilize an additional 1 crore women to the 9 crore women already part of the SHG movement.

He said: Let us not stop at 10 crores. Let us go beyond and ensure that all rural women across the country join the SHG movement. I urge all our SHG members to reach out to left out women in their respective villages and inspire them to join existing SHGs or form their own SHGs.

The Minister said The rural population accounts for 65 per cent of Indias total population. Hence, it is extremely important that women from these areas are accorded all possible opportunities to enable them to contribute significantly into making our country a 5 trillion economy. When 10 crore SHG members all become Lakhpati Didis, it will automatically have a considerable effect on the countrys GDP.

He said And this was the vision with which DAY-NRLM was started so that at least one woman member from every rural household can join a Self Help Group and take advantage of the opportunities and financial support offered under the programme to improve their livelihoods.

The campaign will include General Body Meetings of Village Organizations and experience-sharing by SHG champions to motivate the left-out households to join the SHGs, conducting Community Resource Person drives, mobilizing eligible women from PMAY-G beneficiary households, training new SHG members, reviving defunct SHGs, opening SHG bank accounts and creation of a common database of SHGs promoted by other stakeholders.

Rural Development Secretary Shailesh Kumar Singh; Additional Secretary, Rural Livelihoods Charanjit Singh; and Joint Secretary, Rural Livelihoods Smriti Sharan were present.

CEOs, Mission Directors and senior mission staff from State Rural Livelihoods Missions were among notable guests.

The SHG members from Bihar, Tripura, Telangana, Maharashtra and Haryana shared their experiences on how the DAY-NRLM SHG movement supported them to come out of poverty by creating livelihood opportunities, leading to their economic independence and social empowerment.
Even as the Sangam city is limping back to normalcy after the Saturdays murder of Atiq Ahmed and his brother Ashraf, the police has stepped up its effort to nab Shaista Praveen, wife of Atiq and shooter Guddu Muslim.

With markets opening people were seen shopping. Internet services have been restored in the city on Tuesday after two days in the wake of the Allahabad High Court questioning the district authorities on suspension of Internet services.

However, high security arrangements in the district are still in place as the authorities are taking no chances till Eid and Juma tul vida to be observed on next Friday. Intensive police patrolling continued in Muslim dominated localities while drone is being used to monitor crowds at market place and other sensitive areas.

Meanwhile, a letter of Shaista Praveen and a WhatsApp threat message sent to a Muslim man demanding money has gone viral on social media on Tuesday.

In the letter Shaista alleged that Umesh Pal was murdered under a conspiracy hatched by a state cabinet minister to keep the post of mayor in his possession. The Prayagraj Police is also working under the pressure of the minister. The Prayagraj police commissioner and a senior police official were conspiring with the opponents to kill my husband and brother-in-law, she alleged.

She had sought intervention of the state chief minister through the letter on the whole matter. There was also a demand to conduct the husband and brother-in-laws court appearance through video conferencing. There was also a demand to conduct an inquiry only inside the jail premises.

On the other hand, Mafia don Atiq, in a WhatsApp chat, asked a Muslim man to give money required to contest the mayoral polls. Atiq also mentioned that his sons were neither a doctor nor lawyer, hence they will realise the money.

After the killing of Atiq and Ashraf, the police is in search of Guddu Muslim. The last word of Ashraf was Guddu Muslim. What he wanted to tell Guddu Muslim is a secret now buried forever, but the buzz is that Guddu betrayed Atiq at the last minute. Ashraf wanted to say the same thing, just before he was shot.

There is a speculation that STF could have killed Asad and Ghulam on the information of Guddu. Since the day Asad and Ghulams encounter took place, rumours are rife that the police caught Guddu Muslim. But the police is yet to make any statement in this regard.

Earlier, police sources had said that Guddu was in Jhansi. Since then they changed their stand saying he is in Ajmer and then in Nashik. The rumour about Guddu Muslims double crossing started taking rounds after the killing of Atiq and Ashraf.

On the night of April 15 at Colvin Hospital, Atiq and Ashraf were asked by media persons why they did not attend Asads funeral. Atiq replied he did not go, but immediately after this, Ashraf uttered the thing is that Guddu Muslim Before he could complete his sentence Atiq was shot in the head, then Ashraf too was shot. Why did Ashraf take the name of Guddu Muslim when the media persons were talking about going to Asads funeral, this continued to be a mystery.

Sources reveal that Ashraf had told the STF that apart from Asad and Ghulam, Guddu would hand over Muslim, Armaan and Sabir.

As soon as the news of this came, Guddu Muslim contacted the STF. It is said he was staying at a Jhansi contractors house at that time. On his information, the STF reached there and Asad and Ghulam were encountered.

On the same day, news spread that the STF had surrounded Guddu in Ajmer. After this, he was said to be in Maharashtra. It was said that Guddu has been caught in Nasik.

Atiq Ahmed and Ashraf were shot dead on Saturday night. The duo was shot after 10.30 pm when both of them were brought to the hospital for medical examination. Three assailants who came posing as media persons opened fire. A policeman and a journalist were also injured in the incident.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday dismissed a Punjab Police Service (PPS) officer Raj Jit Singh and ordered a vigilance probe against his disproportionate assets on the basis of a report about an alleged nexus between police officers and drug traffickers in the state.

No one involved in drug trafficking will be spared.. After scrutinising the sealed envelope reports, Rajjit Singh PPS (Punjab Police Service) is nominated in the drug trafficking case and immediately dismissed from the job to investigate the money laundering proceeds  the CM said in a tweet.

The action came after three reports, prepared by Anti-Drug Special Investigation Force, were opened on Raj Jits alleged collusion with dismissed cop Inderjit Singh, who planted money on the innocent to extort money and helped drug smugglers by leaving loopholes in the investigation.

Inderjit was arrested by Additional DGP Harpreet Sidhu-led STF on drugs in 2018 during Capt Amarinder Singhs government. No action was taken against Raj Jit.

Three sealed cover reports regarding the role of police officials in the drug trade in the state were opened by the Punjab and Haryana High Court on 28 March.

These reports were submitted on February 1, 2018, March 15, 2018 and May 8, 2018 by the Special Investigation Team, formed by the high court. The reports had been lying in the court since then.

After these reports were opened in the High Court last month, Mann had said the state government will soon initiate action against those named in the report pertaining to drug trade in the state and those who have ruined youth of Punjab through drugs wont be spared.

The CM said the drug trade which had flourished during the previous Shiromani Akali Dal-Bharatiya Janata Party (SAD-BJP) and Congress regimes had ruined the future generations of the state.

He said the affluent leaders of both these parties had patronised this illegal trade in connivance of bureaucrats and drug smugglers to mint money illegally. Mann said the perpetrators of this heinous crime will not be spared at any cost and they will be put behind the bars.

The CM said the probe report on this issue had been hanging in fire since long as none of the previous government was sincere to take action against those forces which had ruined the future of Punjab.

Mann had said exemplary action will be taken against those people whose hands are drenched with the blood of countless youth who fell prey to drug menace.
Haryana Department of Drugs and Administration on Monday launched a campaign to check the storage of cold temperature medicines and raided more than 50 shops across the state.

Health and Family Welfare Minister Anil Vij said that he was continuously receiving complaints regarding the chemists turning off the main switch while closing the shop at night, due to which the refrigerators containing medicines also get turned off.

He said with this practice the medicine requiring cold temperature like anti-rabies vaccine, insulin, tetanus etc. gets adversely affected. Vij said if such medicines are kept at a temperature higher than the prescribed freezing temperature for 72 hours, then also they lose their potency.

The Minister said that under this campaign checking has been done at 12 shops in Faridabad, five in Jhajjar, 11 in Gurugram, 10 in Karnal, 10 in Kurukshetra, one each in Sonipat, Panipat and 11 in Ambala.

Out of these, refrigerators were found turned off in two shops in Faridabad Bharat Medical Store MCF-184, Main Market, Mujesar, Faridabad and Shree Balaji Medical Store, Shop No. 752, Main Market, Sector 24, Faridabad. Both these shops were sealed on the spot.

Apart from this, Anish Medical Store, Ashok Vihar, Main Palam Vihar Road, Gurugram was also sealed. Similarly, a refrigerator was found switched off in a shop in Sonepat which has also been sealed.

Vij warned the chemists that they should store cold temperature medicines in refrigerators properly and the wholesalers should also distribute such medicines to the retailers as per the rules, otherwise they will be punished for violation and stringent action will also be taken against the shopkeepers.
As part of the BJPs Christian outreach programme in Kerala, Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs John Barla met Cardinal Mar George Alenchery, head of the Syro-Malabar Church at St Thomas Mount at Kakkanad in Kochi on Tuesday morning

Speaking to media persons after the meeting, John Barla said the interaction with the cardinal was fruitful. However, he did not give details of the matters discussed by them.

John Barla, himself a Christian, said that the Christian community is safe in the country since 2014 and the propaganda that the Christians are being attacked in the country is false.

There are many issues and grievances that the Christians are facing here. I came here to meet the priests and Christian leaders and to understand the grievances the Christians are facing here, he said.

The Union minister said he would meet the Rubber Board chairman and take up the issue of increasing the price of rubber with him. Barla arrived in Kerala on Monday on a three-day visit to meet Christian leaders, hold discussions and alleviate their apprehensions about the Saffron party.

He visited the St Thomas Shrine at Malayattoor on Monday morning and had breakfast with the priests and assured to expedite the sanction of funds for the development of the pilgrim centre under the Pilgrimage Rejuvenation And Spiritual Augmentation Drive (Prasad) scheme.

Though Malayattoor Shrine, Kodungalloor Cheraman Juma Masjid and Guruvayur temple have been included in the scheme, the sanction of funds for Malayattoor pilgrim centre has been delayed due to procedural issues. He offered to accompany a Church delegation to meet Union tourism minister to get the funds released.

BJP state vice-president A N Radhakrishnan, Minority Morcha state president Jiji Josephand state secretary Denny Jose accompanied the minister at the Shrine.

John Barla later visited Divine Retreat Centre at Muringoor in Chalakudy and interacted with the priests and leaders of the community. In the noon, the minister participated in the lunch hosted by Thrissur Metropolitan Archbishop Mar Andrews. Then he visited St Euphrasia Shrine at Ollur and Shanti Bhavan Humanitarian Hospital.

On Tuesday, after visiting Cardinal Alancherry, Barla proceeded to Kottayam. He visited St Kuriakose Elias Chavara Pilgrim Centre at Mannanam in Kottayam at 10 am. He inaugurated a national seminar organised by Kerala Council of Churches at Thottabhagam Valiyapalli in Tiruvalla at 3pm on Tuesday. The minister inaugurated an Easter celebration in Pathanamthitta at 5 pm on Tuesday.

The minister will continue his partys Christian outreach programme on Wednesday by visiting Rev T J Samuel at the Assemblies of God headquarters at Punalur in Kollam district at 11 am. He will have lunch with Christian leaders at St Johns School in Anchal at 12 noon.

As part of the BJPs push for Christian outreach in Kerala, party leaders visited various Christian religious leaders on Easter day. BJP continued its Easter diplomacy on the Vishu day by hosting Christian clergy for feast on Saturday, the day of Vishu festival.

Meanwhile, responding to BJPs Christian outreach programme, senior Congress and Opposition leader in the Kerala Assembly said the Christians in the state can recognise the hypocritical stance of the BJP. They do know who are behind the attacks against Christians and Christian institutions in the country. Religious leaders do not seem to have a pro-BJP stance. It does not seem possible to take such a stand. Christians know.
Karnataka Congress chief D.K. Shivakumar said on Tuesday that with former Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar and ex-Deputy CM Lakshman Savadi joining, the party would win 150 seats in the upcoming Assembly elections.

Speaking to reporters Shivakumar stated that with this development the voters of Veerashaiva and Lingayat community will go with the Congress. Our survey projected 141 seats. Now, with the joining of Shettar and Savadi we will reach 150, he said.

After the arrival of these two leaders, the vote share of Congress in Lingayat community has increased by two to three per cent. I am giving an open invitation to all BJP leaders who agree to the ideology of Congress party to join. Let us join hands and together save Karnataka. Let us bring change, he said.

Our candidates are being raided and threatened. We are not scared of the ED and I-T. We are going to teach them a lesson in this election. Not only candidates of Congress party are targeted, the industrialists who are in touch with us also are raided. They are scaring those who are in touch over phone as well, Shivakumar claimed.

It is being told not to support the Congress party. People are scared to receive our calls. But, no one is touching the BJP leaders as if they are upright and honest to the core. We know what is happening and we will face it, he maintained.
Access Information Management Shared Services, LLC

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WOBURN, Mass., April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Access, the worlds largest privately-held integrated information management services provider, announced it has been recognized in 2023 for the second consecutive year in KMWorlds list of 100 Companies that Matter in Knowledge Management. The annual list acknowledges the most important companies that are pioneering a new era of knowledge and information management with innovative and cutting-edge solutions.



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We are honored to be recognized again as a leader in the information management space, said Ken Davis, Access CEO. This latest recognition is a testament to our commitment to exceed our clients expectations with innovative solutions and services. Our focus remains on enabling our clients to reach higher productivity in a work-from-anywhere world with lower levels of compliance risk."

The full list of companies recognized by KMWorld can be viewed here .

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The Supreme Court on Tuesday confined the examination of the plea seeking legal recognition of same sex marriage tom the Special Marriage Act without in any way infringing upon different personal laws of the Hindus, Muslims and the others.

Limiting the scope of the issue to the Special Marriage Act without touching upon other consequential issues including adoption, a five-judge constitution bench comprising Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul, Justice S. Ravindra Bhat, Justice Hima Kohli and Justice Pamidighantam Sri Narasimha said, It cannot decide everything before deciding anything leaving other issues to follow in due course of time for their resolution.

The entire issue got narrowed down to the Special Marriage Act as senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi appearing for one of the petitioners seeking legal recognition of same sex marriage told the court that they were seeking this declaration in favour of same sex marriage independent of Hindu personal law, under the Special Marriage Act.

The daylong hearing saw Solicitor General Tushar Mehta appearing for the Centre telling the constitution bench to leave the issue to be dealt by the legislature. He sought issuance of notice to the States to seek their response on the contentious issue  a plea that was opposed by the lawyers appearing for the different petitioners who argued that issue involves fonduta rights of persons seeking legal sanction of same sex marriage.

Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi appearing for a petitioner seeking legal sanction to same sex marriage said that consequential issues involves so many facets that mere recognition of same sex marriage cannot be left to be an empty shell.

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal appearing for a Muslim organisation said that though personally he was in favour of the issue but it involves may complexities like in the event of a breakdown of the same sex marriage who will be the father and who will be projected as wife for the purposes of criminal code.

Sibal told the court that since it (court) has limited the ambit of issue to the Special Marriage Act, he is out of the case as he was to argue on the basis of Muslim personal law. However, the bench asked him to assist the court in the matter at a later stage.

Another senior advocate Rakesh Dwivedi cautioned the court that even if it decides the issue by limiting it to Special Marriage Act, the such a same sex couple would be at the window of other consequential reliefs.

The court is seized of a batch of petitions relating to the issue of same sex marriage, challenging the denial of the access to the to the institution of marriage to the members of the LGBTQ+ community as being in contravention of Part III of the Constitution, including Articles 14,15,19 and 21.
Congress Rajya Sabha member Digvijay Sngh has raised some serious questions over the murder of mafia don Atiq Ahmed and his brother Ashraf in police custody while demanding an inquiry by the CBI, the ED and the Income Tax Department to find out the mafia dons connections with politicians, officers and businessmen.

Speaking to media persons at the MP Congress headquarters here on Saturday, Singh pointed out that one of the Atiqs killers, Lavlesh Tiwari, had been living in Balaghat in Madhya Pradesh in 2021. He demanded to know from Madhya Pradesh Home Minister Narottam Mishra whether he had his patronage and protection in Balaghat.

Digvijay Singh said it is very curious why Vikas Dubey had also chosen to take refuge in Madhya Pradesh before surrendering in Ujjain.

Dubey was another dreaded gangster of Uttar Pradesh who was killed by the UP Police in an encounter on 10 July 2020 allegedly when he had tried to escape from police custody while being taken from MP to UP after his surrender.

The former chief minister of MP said the responsibility of Atiqs murder was on the Uttar Pradesh Police, as the don and his brother were shot dead while in police custody right in front of the eyes of police personnel.

The senior Congress leader claimed that he had learnt that Atiq had carried out more acts of crime against Muslims than against Hindus. He said though the head of the mafia has been killed, the mafia is still alive and kicking. Singh demanded that the entire mafia must be wiped out and the CBI, ED and IT must thoroughly probe Atiqs connections with politicians, officers and businessmen.

Singh also raised the Pulwama issue, saying whenever he tries to say something on it or ask any questions related to it, the entire troll army of the BJP starts attacking him.

Singh said this in reference to a recent interview by former Governor of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir and senior BJP leader Satya Pal Malik, who had claimed in the interview that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval had asked him to stay quiet and not say anything over the issue, when he had told them the Pulwama attack, in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed in a bomb attack on 14 February 2019, had occurred due to the governments mistake and intelligence failure.
Claiming that Uttar Pradesh today has the most favourable environment to set up enterprises, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath asserted here on Tuesday that no mafia can spread terror in UP as every district is now safe having its own identity and the government is capable of safeguarding the interests and the capital of the investors.

Blaming previous governments for UPs poor law and order situation, Yogi Adityanath said, Prior to 2017, UP was known for riots and crime. Today, all the districts of the state are witnessing growth. The government is paving the way for development through airports, highways, and proper law and order situation.

The chief minister was speaking at Lokbhawan here after the Uttar Pradesh government signed a MoU with the government of India under the PM Mega Integrated Textiles and Apparel (PM Mitra) Scheme for the establishment of 1,000-acres-wide textile parks in Lucknow and Hardoi districts.

He went on to say that those who were trouble for UP earlier are today in trouble themselves. More than 700 riots took place in UP between 2012 and 17. Over 364 riots took place in UP between 2007 and 12. But not a single riot has taken place since 2017 till now, Yogi pointed out.

Expressing gratitude to the prime minister for choosing UP for the Centres ambitious PM Mega Integrated Textiles and Apparel (PM Mitra) Scheme, he said, This move is a step towards re-establishing the UPs ancient glory and towards making the state the new textile hub of the country.

Stating that despite having a rich history, districts like Kanpur lost their sheen in the textile industry, with factories shutting down one after the other while handloom and powerlooms industries kept collapsing, the chief minister said that in the last six years, however, things have changed with UP being one of the biggest beneficiaries of PM Modis vision.

As a result of the efforts in the last six years, the state received investment proposals worth over Rs 35 lakh crores and Team UP is moving forward with these programs in a time-bound manner to bring an investment of up to Rs 10 lakh crores on the ground, he said.

Yogi further said that UP has its own policy for textiles and garments, and the government is making every effort to take the state forward in terms of Ease of Doing Business. For power in the textile industry, Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation will work to provide a discount of two rupees per unit, as a part of our policy to encourage investors, he said.

He said that the government is also taking innovative measures to strengthen youth in every field in UP. For those who will be working in textile sector, an internship scheme has been taken out for them. This time there was a provision of PM Internship Scheme in the Union Budget as well and on the same lines the State Government has brought out an internship scheme of its own, he said.

In the programme, the MoU was exchanged between Rohit Kansal, Additional Secretary Textile, government of India and Amit Mohan Prasad, Additional Chief Secretary, Handloom and Textile Industry, MSME, Government of Uttar Pradesh. This park is being developed in collaboration with the Central and State Governments, in which private participation will also take place. MoUs were also transferred among private investors Aditya Birla Group, M/s GSL Spinners Pvt Ltd, M/s Azum Denim Cart LNP, M/s Abhikim Textile Ltd, M/s SVM, M/s Josis India Pvt Ltd, M/s MLK Export Ltd and M/s Path Thread Pvt Ltd.

Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry; Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution; and Textiles, Rakesh Sachan, Minister of MSME, Khadi, Village Industries, Sericulture, Textile, Darshana Vikram Jardosh, Union State Minister for Railways and Textiles, among other dignitaries were present on the occasion.
US and Japan stand united with the Group of Seven partners to promote peace, security, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region and around the world, State Secretary Antony Blinken said.

Earlier, Blinken met his Japanese counterpart, Yoshimasa Hayashi and participated in the G7 meeting, which is led by Japan this year. Taking to Twitter, Blinken said, Great meeting with my friend @MofaJapan_en Foreign Minister Hayashi as Japan leads the @G7 in 2023. We stand united with Japan and our G7 partners to promote peace, security, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region and around the world.

In the official statement, Blinken praised Japan saying that its leadership with the G7 has been exceptional.

Your leadership with the G7 has been exceptional, and were very much looking forward to the leaders meeting that were preparing here, Blinken said, according to the statement.

But beyond that, the partnership every single day on the most challenging issues that we face as an international community that wants to uphold the rule of law  whether its Ukraine, whether its DPRK, whether its trying to advance a free and open Indo-Pacific, which were both working on together, whether its strengthening economic ties among countries  in these and so many other endeavours, your leadership has been deeply important and deeply valued, the statement added.

He also appreciated the hospitality here at the G7, but the very good work thats being done under Japans leadership.

Meanwhile, the US State Secretary also met French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna and held discussions on cooperation to maintain peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific and support for Ukraine.

After meeting his German counterpart, Blinken tweeted, Great to meet again with German Foreign Minister @ABaerbock at the G7 Foreign Ministers Meeting in Karuizawa, Japan. Our close cooperation is vital to our shared interests in the Indo-Pacific and support for Ukraine.

In todays @G7 Ministerial sessions, we discussed many challenges: from Russias war against Ukraine to advancing peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific to addressing our shared concerns across the Middle East and Central Asia. We are committed to solving these challenges, Blinken tweeted on Monday.
Saint-Laurent, CA (H4T1V6)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun this morning followed by some light rain this afternoon. High 51F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%..

Tonight

Showers early, then partly cloudy overnight. Low 37F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
The Air Force says it is investigating how a lone airman could access and distribute possibly hundreds of highly classified documents, and in the meantime has taken away the intelligence mission from the unit where the leaks took place
BEIJING, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has clarified that its investment in the Indonesia Mandalika Urban and Tourism Infrastructure Project (Mandalika Project) is in compliance with environmental and social standards.

Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB)

Urjit Patel, AIIB's Vice President for Investment Operations in South and Southeast Asia, said, "Since the concerns were first raised in 2019, AIIB has shown following due diligence that complaints were largely not related to the Mandalika Project but rather to the nearby MotoGP Circuit, which is a separate Project and not financed by AIIB."

Patel emphasized that the Mandalika Project is designed to provide sustainable core infrastructure to develop the southern region of Lombok as a tourist destination and stimulate local business and create employment for the community. Tourism makes a major contribution to the country's GDP, but requires supporting infrastructure such as roads, water and sanitation services, solid waste management, power distribution, disaster risk management, landscaping and community facilitiesinvestments that will also benefit the community.

Since approval of the Mandalika Project, AIIB has closely monitored implementation by its client, the Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), of the Bank's Environmental and Social Framework.

With support from AIIB, ITDC has worked with affected communities while preparing the Project to avoid, minimize and/or mitigate potential adverse impacts. The resettlement action plan for the affected local community includes the provision of larger homes for those resettled. Project-affected people are being given the opportunity to own both the house and the land. Skill development and trainings as well as jobs are being provided for the affected people. Market lots for local vendors, micro, small and medium enterprises and community facilities within the Mandalika Special Economic Zone have been set aside as part of the plan.

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AIIB notes that the Mandalika Project, like any other infrastructure development, is a complex undertaking but the Bank remains committed to working with its partners and stakeholders, so that everyone can participate in and reap the benefits the Project is anticipated to bring.

About AIIB

The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is a multilateral development bank whose mission is financing the Infrastructure for Tomorrowinfrastructure with sustainability at its core. We began operations in Beijing in January 2016 and have since grown to 106 approved members worldwide. We are capitalized at USD100 billion and Triple-A-rated by the major international credit rating agencies. Working with partners, AIIB meets clients' needs by unlocking new capital and investing in infrastructure that is green, technology-enabled and promotes regional connectivity.

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View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/aiib-clarifies-its-role-in-indonesia-tourism-development-project-301800320.html

SOURCE Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB)
EDWARDSVILLE  An Alton man was charged Friday with driving with a revoked license when he passed a bus that was loading/unloading children.

Jesse R. Burnett, 37, of the 600 block of Ridge Street, Alton, was charged April 14 with driving while license revoked, a Class 4 felony; passing school bus loading/unloading, a Class P misdemeanor; and operating motor vehicle registration suspended, a Class U misdemeanor.

The case was presented by the Alton Police Department.

According to court documents, on April 12 Burnett was driving on Washington Avenue, Alton with a revoked drivers license; passed a school bus in the 700 block of Washington while it was loading or unloading children; and was operating his vehicle which had been suspended for noninsurance.

It was noted the license had been revoked after a conviction for DUI; and he has a prior conviction of driving while license revoked in 2018.

Bail was set at $40,000.

Other felony charges filed by the Madison County States Attorneys Office includes:

 Dennis J. Smith, 55, of Piasa, Illinois, was charged April 14 with driving while license revoked, a Class 4 felony. The case was presented by the Edwardsville Police Department. According to court documents, on April 13 Smith was driving a 2004 Chevrolet Silverado on S. Buchanan Street in Edwardsville with a revoked drivers license. It was noted it had been revoked due to a 2000 open statutory summery suspension for DUI; and he has prior convictions for driving while license revoked in 2001,2002, 2003, 2006, 2011, 2013 and 2018. Bail was set at $20,000.

 Amy L. Irwin, 45, of Hillsboro, Illinois, was charged April 14 with unlawful possession of a controlled substance, a Class 4 felony. The case was presented by the Glen Carbon Police Department. According to court documents, on Feb. 16 Irwin was found to be in possession of less than 15 grams of fentanyl. Bail was set at $20,000.
ALTON  Mayor David Goins has announced that the Edwardsville Community Foundation (ECF) awarded nearly $100,000 to the city of Alton.

Chief Jesse Jemison and the Alton Fire Department said they were excited to announce that the Edwardsville Community Foundation (ECF) has awarded $36,922 towards the purchase of new rescue equipment.

"Kuddos to Chief Jemison and BC House for leadership and diligence in securing the grant. It is so wonderful for the fire department to purchase disaster readiness equipment," Goins said.

The Alton Fire Department requested new extrication equipment that can be used for auto extrication, structural collapse, breaching, and stabilization incidents.

"We will now be able to purchase new battery-powered Genesis NEXGEN spreaders, cutters, and rams. This equipment will match our existing complement of tools which will streamline our response preparedness for future rescue incidents," Jemison said.

"Director Parsons along with his staff Amy Cox and Melissa Witcher helped the city of Alton Public Works Department secure a $63,000 grant," Goins said.

"I am excited because this Grant allows Public works to buy needed disaster equipment," Public Works Director Mike Parsons said. "Mobile generators with light bars, cooling vests, shovels, power saws, rain gear and prying bars. The beautiful part is not putting a burden on our General Funds."

The department will buy three mobile generators with high intensity lighting allowing work in areas that are experiencing power outages due to storms. The equipment will allow city workers to more effectively do their job during an active disaster as well as the cleanup.

The city of Alton is required a 10% match for total final project coast.

The ECF was established in 1997 by a group of local business and community leaders. They founded the Edwardsville Community Foundation to create an organization where people could donate money that would directly impact the quality of life in the local communities. The Edwardsville Community Foundation recently awarded nearly $1.7 million in relief grants to individuals, businesses, and municipalities in Madison County after the deadly tornado in December 2021. These relief grants represent an unprecedented amount dispersed by ECF in the foundations 25 years of existence.
EDWARDSVILLE  Madison Countys law enforcement agencies, in cooperation with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, will operate a drop-off site for Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 22.

Madison County States Attorney Thomas A. Haine, Sheriff Jeff Connor and Coroner Steve Nonn will be operating the drop-off site in coordination with the DEA from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., at the Madison County Administration Buildings back parking lot on 2nd Street in Edwardsville. The building address is 157 N. Main St.

Haine said the event is a convenient way for local residents to help fight the overdose epidemic and save lives.

I strongly encourage local residents to take advantage of this opportunity," Connor said. "Its a way to dispose of unneeded medicines in a manner that is healthy and safe.

The Prescription Drug Take Back Day provides an easy, no-cost opportunity to dispose of medicines stored in the home that are susceptible to abuse and theft.

"Many of the tragic overdose deaths we see could have been averted if unneeded prescription drugs had been disposed of properly, Nonn said.

The majority of opioid addictions start with prescription pills found in medicine cabinets at home.

Pharmaceutical drugs can be just as dangerous as street drugs when taken without a prescription or a doctors supervision.

Items that can be accepted at the event include:

 Prescription medication including controlled substances

 Over-the-counter medications

 Vitamins

Items that cannot be accepted include:

 Any illicit drugs. (These substances can be turned over to a police department at any time.)

 Sharp objects, including needles, auto-injectors, etc. Please check with your waste disposal

company to learn their procedures for the safe disposal of these items.

 Liquids not secured in a leak-proof container.

 Biohazardous materials.

 Glass objects, including thermometers or other medical devices.

 Aerosols, including inhalers.

Since 2010, DEA, along with its law enforcement partners, has collected nearly 16 million pounds of unneeded prescription medications.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that in the U.S., more than 107,000 people died as the result of a drug overdose last year. This figure means that someone in the U.S. is dying of a drug overdose every five minutes.
Fortune Business Insights

The global aircraft health monitoring system market covered major segments By Sub-System (Aero-Propulsion System, Airframe, Ancillary System, Software, And Others), By Technology (Prognostic Systems, Diagnostic Systems, Detection Systems, Adaptive Control, And Others), By Platform (Commercial Aircraft, Business Jets, Regional and Military Aircraft), By Fit (Retrofit, and line-fit) and Regional Forecast.

Pune, India, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global aircraft health monitoring system market size was USD 4,202.4 million in 2019 and is projected to grow from USD 2,319.7 million in 2020 to USD 4,987.9 million in 2027 at a CAGR of 11.56% in the 2020-2027 period. The Aircraft Health Monitoring System (AHMS) Market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing demand for real-time data analysis and predictive maintenance in the aviation industry. AHMS is an integrated system that uses advanced sensors and analytics tools to monitor the health of aircraft components and systems in real-time. The system provides critical data on the performance of aircraft systems, enabling maintenance teams to detect and address potential issues before they become critical. The adoption of AHMS is driven by several factors, including the increasing demand for real-time data analysis and predictive maintenance, the need to reduce maintenance costs, and the growing emphasis on passenger safety. The aviation industry is increasingly leveraging AHMS to improve operational efficiency and reduce downtime by enabling maintenance teams to quickly identify and address potential issues.

Additionally, AHMS provides critical insights into aircraft performance and maintenance requirements, allowing airlines to optimize their maintenance schedules and reduce costs.

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List of Key Players Profiled in the Aircraft Health Monitoring System Market Report:

Airbus S.A.S. (The Netherlands)

Boeing (US)

United Technologies Corporation (US)

Honeywell International, Inc. (US)

General Electric Company (US)

Rolls Royce (UK)

SAFRAN (France)

FLYHT (Canada)

Curtiss-Wright (US)

Tech Mahindra (India)

Meggitt (UK)

Lufthansa Technik (Germany)

Other Players

Story continues

Report Scope & Segmentation:

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2020-2027 Forecast CAGR 11.56 % 2027 Value Projection USD 4,987.9 Billion Market Size in 2020 USD 2,319.7 Billion Historical Data 2016-2018 No. of Pages 200 Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Company Profiles, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors and Latest Trends Segments Covered By Sub-System Analysis

By Technology Analysis

By Platform Analysis

By Fit Analysis Regions Covered North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

South America

Middle East and Africa Aircraft Health Monitoring System (AHMS) Market Growth Drivers Rising Demand for Next-Generation Aircraft Carriers to Fuel Market Growth Adoption of More Electric Aircraft to Boost Growth of the Market

Browse Detailed Summary of Research Report with TOC:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/aircraft-health-monitoring-system-market-105027

Segments

On the basis of sub-system, the market has been segregated into aero-propulsion systems, airframes, ancillary systems, software, and others. By technology, the market is segmented into prognostic systems, diagnostic systems, detection systems, adaptive control, and others. Based on platform, the market is classified into commercial aircraft, business jets, and regional & military aircraft. Based on fit, the market has been bifurcated into retrofit and line-fit. In terms of geography, the market has been grouped into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Rest of the World.

North America to Bolster Its Apex Market Position; Asia Pacific to Register Highest CAGR

With a size of USD 1,386.8 million in 2019, North America is poised to dominate the aircraft health monitoring system market share during the forecast period. The principal reason for the regions unassailable position in the global market is the strong presence of aviation industry giants, such as Bombardier and Boeing, in the US and Canada. These companies have been heavily investing in advanced aircraft maintenance technologies, which have ensured the enduring growth of the regional market.

Asia Pacific is slated to showcase the highest CAGR, supported by the rapidly increasing air passenger traffic in the region. This is primarily attributable to the phenomenal economic growth and development of India and China over the past few decades. Furthermore, domestic airline companies are also making strategic investments in modern fleet management technologies, such as aircraft health monitoring systems, to broaden their business horizons.

Aerospace Bigwigs to Dictate Competitive Dynamics

The competitive landscape of this market is characterized by the dominant activities of bigwigs, such as Airbus and Honeywell, in the aerospace industry. Their robust finances and strong portfolios have allowed these companies to continuously invest in the development of next-generation aircraft health monitoring systems. However, the governing dynamics of this market are now being reshaped due to the entry of startups that are specializing in inventive technologies and enhancing this markets potential.

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Report Coverage

The report offers a detailed examination of the individual market segments and projections about the upcoming opportunities. The report also contains an unparalleled study of the factors driving and restraining market growth and provides valuable insights into the regional dynamics shaping the market. Moreover, the report shares a microscopic diagnosis of the leading players and their key strategies.

Drivers and Restraints

Integration of Smart Technologies in Aircraft Maintenance to Boost the Market

Aircraft maintenance is a crucial operation that airline companies and manufacturers have to perform not just to comply with regulations and standards, but also to ensure stable business growth. The integration of smart technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), with aircraft health monitoring systems has opened the gateway of innovation in the aviation industry. For example, Pratt & Whitneys eFAST data transmission technology was utilized by Bombardier in 2021 to perform AHM functions on its C-Series jets. Bombardier has also collaborated with Tech Mahindra to create an Aircraft Ground Support System that leverages big data, cloud computing, sensor technologies. The adoption of advanced technologies by large aircraft companies is, thus, propelling the aircraft health monitoring system market growth.

Regional Insights

Growing Domestic Air Passenger Traffic to Catalyze the Market in Asia Pacific

Asia Pacific is set to showcase phenomenal growth in the global AHM system market owing to the soaring number of domestic air passengers. This trend is underpinned by the proliferation of low-cost carriers in India and China, along with massive investments in the region to build robust aviation infrastructures.

North America, however, is expected to dominate the aircraft health monitoring system market share during the forecast period backed by the rising demand for commercial aircraft, electric jets, and the increasing stringency of aviation regulations across the US and Canada. In 2019, the regions market size stood at USD 1,386.8 million. In Europe, on the other hand, the rising demand for predictive maintenance solutions will aid the regional market growth.

Competitive Landscape

Leading Players to Focus on Broadening Portfolios with Enhanced Offerings

With technological advancements in aircraft health monitoring systems speedily progressing, key players in this market are focused on widening their customer base by bringing enhanced offerings to the table. This is also enabling companies to broaden their product portfolios, which, in turn, is cementing their market position.

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Detailed 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 Industry Developments Mergers, Acquisitions and Partnerships Latest technological Advancements Porters Five Forces Analysis Supply Chain Analysis

Quantitative Insights-Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Global Aircraft Health Monitoring System Market Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on the Global Aircraft Health Monitoring System Market Steps Taken by the Industry/Companies/Government to Overcome the Impact Key Development in the Industry in Response to COVID-19 Impact

Global Aircraft Health Monitoring System Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2016-2027 Key Findings / Summary Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Sub-System Aero-Propulsion System Airframe Ancillary System Software



TOC Continued...!

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Key Industry Development



December 2020: Safran Helicopter Engines inked a Support-by-Hour contract with China-based State Grid General Aviation Company (SGGAC). Under the contract, Safran will provide maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services to SGGAC, covering its H225 and H215 fleets.

Read Related Insights:

Aircraft Electrical System Market Size to Hit USD 27.29 Billion by 2027; Increasing Demand for Digitized Aircraft Management Solutions to Boost Market Growth, Says Fortune Business Insights

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Clay County, Missouri Sheriff

An 84-year-old man accused in the shooting of a Missouri teen has turned himself in to police.

Andrew Lester, a white man, has been charged with assault and armed criminal action after he allegedly shot Ralph Yarl, a Black 16-year-old, who accidentally knocked on his Kansas City, Missouri door last week.
EDWARDSVILLE  The season finale Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Arts & Issues was momentous on two levels  the Arts & Issues longtime director retired and an SIUE alum who is an MTV correspondent hosted the last event of the season.

MTV correspondent and host Dometi Pongo, a 2011 SIUE alumnus, gave details of his experiences and pursuit of an exciting and fulfilling career during a presentation for the SIUE College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Arts & Issues series.

Pongo, an economics and finance major, spoke April 12 at the Lovejoy Librarys Friends Corner. He started out working at the Target headquarters in Minneapolis, Minnesota. It took him a year to realize he wanted to follow his true passion related to media and the arts.

Pongo moved back home to Chicago and began working at a radio station. He also organized artistic events, including poetry readings, across the city.

Eventually, an opportunity to interview with MTV emerged. He moved to New York City, where he initially had a 30-day contract. The company eventually offered him a full-time job as a correspondent, red carpet interviewer and to host select shows.

Following Pongos presentation, a question-and-answer session was hosted by Distinguished Research Professor of Literature Howard Rambsy II, of CAS; and Nicole Dixon, a graduate student in the CAS Department of English, Language and Literature. He responded to questions about his career as a correspondent and creative.

Pongo discussed interviewing Megan the Stallion, Billie Eilish, J. Balvin, DJ Khaled, Keke Palmer, Rick Ross and other celebrities. He also mentioned the challenges of working red carpet interviews, such as competing with other correspondents for celebrities time and interest.

He gave students advice about the importance of exploring their interests and passions. Pongo encouraged students to read books and learn about the experiences of others who pursued similar paths.

Pongo coming back to SIUE was an amazing moment, said Dixon. Hes relatable and aspirational. His advice about navigating a creative career is especially important to me given my interests in screenwriting and production.

It's crucial for students to witness connections between the intellectual and cultural work they are doing at SIUE and visions of the professional intellectuals they can be in the future, said Elizabeth Cali, associate professor in the Department of English, Language and Literature.

Pongo provided a pathway from student to professional in a way that Black students could see themselves in the present and imagine their own futures.

The Pongo event marked a special occasion for the Arts & Issues Director Grant Andree, who will retire in May. Since 2007, Andree has booked 103 events, including three additional CAS colloquium speakers.

In 2011 for the CAS colloquium, Andree booked journalist and author Ta-Nehisi Coates, who had not yet achieved national prominence. Pongo, who was a student at the time, met with Coates.

To have an SIUE student who attended the Ta-Nehisi Coates appearance and was inspired by the event as our final Arts & Issues speaker, was a perfect way to finish my career here at SIUE, Andree said.

The SIUE Arts & Issues series, over its 38 years, as well as the CAS colloquium, presented world class speakers and performing artists the community would never have had an opportunity to see, he continued.

Andree also noted that because people from across campus made suggestions about speaker and performances, the Arts & Issues series was an SIUE community effort.






DAKAR, Senegal (AP)  At least 40 members of Burkina Faso's security forces were killed by gunmen in the northern part of the country, and dozens of others were injured, authorities said Sunday.

Six soldiers and 34 volunteer fighters, civilians who assist the military, were killed near the town of Ouahigouya on Saturday afternoon, northern region secretary-general Kouilga Albert Zongo said in a statement. The 33 wounded were hospitalized in stable condition, he said.
TUNIS, Tunisia (AP)  Tunisian President Kais Saied met Tuesday with Syria's chief diplomat and said his country wants to boost bilateral cooperation and preserve historical ties of brotherhood with Damascus, the official TAP news agency reported.

Diplomatic relations between Syria and Tunisia have been cut since 2012 during the civil war that followed President Bashar Assads crackdown on mass protests against his rule. Syrian Foreign Minister Faisal Mikdad's three-day visit to Tunisia is meant to help restore relations, the Tunisian Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.

Mikdad had a meeting Monday evening with his Tunisian counterpart Nabil Ammar shortly after his arrival.

President Saied stressed Tunisias willingness to intensify cooperation in a range of bilateral issues, and on the common cultural bonds, TAP reported.

The bid by the two countries to move toward a new chapter is a glaring example of how things have changed in the region over the past decade: Tunisia was the birthplace of the Arab Spring pro-democracy movements that spread as far as Syria in 2011, and was long among Assads strongest critics. But today, Tunisias leadership is swinging back toward authoritarianism, and is allying anew with Assads Syria.

Earlier this month, the Tunisian president ordered the appointment of an ambassador to Damascus, after the Syrian government's decision to reopen its embassy in Tunis and appoint an ambassador.

In February, Saied had announced his decision to raise the level of Tunisian diplomatic representation in Damascus, and said that the crisis facing Assad's government was an internal matter that concerns only the Syrian people." The move was made at the same time Tunisia was sending urgent humanitarian aid to Syria following the earthquake that killed tens of thousands there and in neighboring Turkey.

Mikdad's visit to Tunisia is the second leg of a trip that began in Algeria, one of the few Arab countries that maintained diplomatic relations during Syria's civil war.

It comes as influential Tunisian Islamist leader Rached Ghannouchi was detained after a police search, in a move denounced by his supporters as a stepped-up effort by the president to quash Tunisias opposition. Ghannouchi, head of the Ennahdha party, is the most prominent critic of Saied.

Last week, Mikdad also traveled to Saudi Arabia.

Syria was widely shunned by Arab governments over Assads 2011 crackdown on protesters, and Syria was ousted from the Arab League.

However, in recent years, as Assad consolidated control over most of the country, Syrias neighbors have begun to take steps toward rapprochement.
MEXICO CITY (AP)  Mexicos president lashed out Monday at what he called U.S. spying and interference in Mexico, days after U.S. prosecutors announced charges against 28 members of the Sinaloa cartel for smuggling massive amounts of fentanyl into the United States.

President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador suggested Monday that the case had been built on information gathered by U.S. agents in Mexico, and said foreign agents cannot be in Mexico.

He called the Sinaloa investigation abusive, arrogant interference that should not be accepted under any circumstances.

A former top U.S. drug enforcement agent called the presidents comments unjustified. Mike Vigil, former head of international operations for the Drug Enforcement Administration, said Lopez Obrador was mistakenly assuming that U.S. agents needed to be in Mexico to collect intelligence for the case. In fact, much of the case appears to have come from trafficking suspects caught in the U.S.

He wants to completely destroy the working relationship that has taken decades to build, Vigil said. "This is going to translate into more drugs reaching the United States and more violence and corruption in Mexico.

Lopez Obrador continued Monday to describe fentanyl  a synthetic opioid that causes about 70,000 overdose deaths annually in the United States  as a U.S. problem, claiming it isn't made in Mexico. He has suggested American families hug their children more, or keep their adult children at home longer, to stop the fentanyl crisis.

The Mexican president also made it clear that fighting fentanyl trafficking takes a back seat to combating Mexico's domestic security problems, and that Mexico is helping only out of good will.

What we have to do first is guarantee public safety in our country ... that is the first thing, Lopez Obrador said, and in second place, help and cooperate with the U.S. government.

Vigil pointed out that it was the very same cartels trafficking fentanyl and methamphetamines that cause most of the violence in Mexico. Avoiding confrontations with cartels is unlikely to bring peace, Vigil said, noting it is going to have exactly the opposite effect.

The U.S. charges announced Friday revealed the brutal and shocking methods the cartel, based in the northern state of Sinaloa, used to move massive amounts of increasingly cheap fentanyl into the United States.

Apparently eager to corner the market and build up a core market of addicts, the cartel was wholesaling counterfeit pills containing fentanyl for as little as 50 cents apiece.

Lopez Obrador own administration has acknowledged finding dozens of labs where fentanyl is produced in Mexico from Chinese precursor chemicals, mainly in the northern state of Sinaloa.

Most illegal fentanyl is pressed by Mexican cartels into counterfeit pills made to look like other medications like Xanax, oxycodone or Percocet, or mixed into other drugs, including heroin and cocaine. Many people who die of overdoses in the United States do not know they are taking fentanyl.

Lopez Obrador deeply resents U.S. allegations of corruption in Mexico, and fought tooth and nail to avoid a U.S. trial of former defense secretary Gen. Salvador Cienfuegos on U.S. charges of aiding a drug gang in 2020.

Lopez Obrador at one point threatened to kick DEA agents out of Mexico unless the general was returned, which he was. Cienfuegos was quickly freed once he returned. Since then, the Mexican government has imposed restrictive rules on how agents can operate in Mexico, and slowed down visa approvals for a time.
Women surgeons breaking the boundaries of leadership presented in partnership with the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), The Aesthetic Society and the American Hernia Society (AHS)

IRVINE, Calif., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Allergan Aesthetics, an AbbVie company, supports women plastic surgeons and the development of current and future leaders in science, healthcare, and medicine with LIMITLESS, an ongoing initiative in partnership with American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), The Aesthetic Society and the American Hernia Society. LIMITLESS was developed three years ago as a program to highlight women's achievements in plastic surgery while also providing education, mentorship and empowerment.

LIMITLESS logo

"Women surgeons are trailblazers and sharing their powerful stories can inspire future generations," said Carrie Strom, Senior Vice President, AbbVie, and President, Global Allergan Aesthetics. "When Dr. Shuting Zhong came to us with the concept, Allergan Aesthetics partnered with these important societies to develop it into a platform to amplify these role models. Our hope is that one story shared will empower another one to begin and we will create a more equitable path forward for everyone."

LIMITLESS is a platform for storytelling and idea sharing where accomplished women surgeons offer empowering perspectives and encouragement to future women leaders in plastic surgery. The LIMITLESS initiative includes a docuseries on a dedicated YOUTUBE channel, a podcast series and the LIMITLESS Leaders Summit that provides in-person networking and collaboration.

"LIMITLESS provides encouragement to women in medical school, residency, and beyond," said LIMITLESS co-chair Anu Bajaj, MD. "We have an increasing number of women entering the surgical specialties, but biases and harassment still exist at every level. By providing a platform for discussion, sharing, and leadership training, we engage a wider audience on these issues and hope to empower generations of women to come."

Story continues

The LIMITLESS platform offers compelling conversations among women plastic surgeons and their guests on a range of subjects including women plastic surgeons in the military, allyship, roundtables on career advancement and features of society presidents and women pioneers leaders like Dr. Lynn Jeffers, Dr. Andrea Pusic, and Dr. Camille Cash. The associated LIMITLESS podcast covers real-life topics and stories from women plastic surgeons tackling the demands of surgical careers, being mothers, and maintaining personal lives.

The annual LIMITLESS Leaders Summit is dedicated to promoting and breaking down barriers for early-career women plastic and general surgeons working to achieve leadership positions. This year's Summit will be held May 20-21 in Seattle, and it will feature engaging and inspiring speakers, breakout sessions and social activities to provide an unforgettable educational and networking experience.

Subscribe to the LIMITLESS YouTube channel to view content dedicated to highlighting women leadership in surgery.

About Allergan Aesthetics

Allergan Aesthetics, an AbbVie company, develops, manufactures, and markets a portfolio of leading aesthetics brands and products. The aesthetics portfolio includes facial injectables, plastic surgery and regenerative medicine devices, body contouring, skin care products, and more. Our goal is to consistently provide customers worldwide with innovation, education, exceptional service, and a commitment to excellence, all with a personal touch.

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 its Allergan Aesthetics portfolio. For more information about AbbVie, please visit us at www.abbvie.com. Follow @abbvie on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.

About The American Society of Plastic Surgeons

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) is the largest organization of board-certified plastic surgeons in the world. Representing more than 11,000 physician members worldwide, the society is recognized as a leading authority and information source on cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery. ASPS comprises more than 92 percent of all board-certified plastic surgeons in the United States. Founded in 1931, the society represents physicians certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery or The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.

About The Aesthetic Society

The Aesthetic Society is recognized as the world's leading organization devoted entirely to aesthetic plastic surgery and cosmetic medicine of the face and body. The Aesthetic Society is comprised of more than 2,600 members in North America and internationally; Active Members are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (USA) or by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and have extensive training in the complete spectrum of surgical and non-surgical aesthetic procedures. International Active Members are certified by equivalent boards of their respective countries. All members worldwide adhere to a strict Code of Ethics and must meet stringent membership requirements. The Aesthetic Society is at the forefront of innovation in aesthetic plastic surgery and cosmetic medicine globally. Visit our website: www.theaestheticsociety.org

About American Hernia Society

The American Hernia Society (AHS) is recognized as the worldwide authority on hernia surgery. The purpose of the Society is to advance the science and treatment of hernia and abdominal core health, and to promote the highest standards of professional skills and competence among surgeons who perform abdominal wall reconstruction. For more information, please visit us at www.americanherniasociety.org, and follow @AmericanHernia on Twitter.

Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/allergan-aesthetics-celebrates-the-journeys-of-women-surgeons-with-limitless-301800458.html

SOURCE AbbVie
India got its first Apple retail store on Tuesday as chief executive Tim Cook opened its doors to hundreds who gathered outside at a mall in the Bandra Kurla Complex business district.

Ever since the US-based company announced the store opening, anticipation was high among Apple aficionados in India. Cook's presence added to the excitement as he personally welcomed guests into the store amid loud cheering by the 100-odd staff members.

The Mumbai store is spread over two levels and 20,000 square feet and will offer all Apple products, accessories and services under one roof, the second store will come up in New Delhi's Saket on Thursday.

Purav Mehta, 30, is one of the hundreds who waited to get his favourite Apple product directly from the store, despite it being available online. "The fanboy inside me would not listen," Mehta told Reuters.

"The vibe here is just different," Reuters quoted 23-year old Aan Shah, who travelled from Ahmedabad for the launch. "It's not like buying from some normal store. There's just no comparison. It's so exciting," Shah added.

Though Apple's store opened online in 2020, opening a physical retail store in India came with a lot of hurdles, including the country's regulatory restrictions around single-brand retail.

In India, Apple phones are affordable for only a few and accounts for just a three per cent of the market share. It also leads the premium smartphone segment (in the above Rs 30,000 and Rs 45,000 segments) in the country.

Apple grew 16 per cent year-on-year in 2022, with the iPhone 13 emerging as the top-selling model, as per Counterpoint. In terms of value, Apple's market share increased from 14 per cent in 2021 to 18 per cent in 2022, behind only Samsung, which saw its value market share rise from 19 per cent to 22 per cent, the data showed.

"We're putting a lot of emphasis on the market. There's been a lot done from financing options and trade-ins to make products more affordable and give people more options to buy. And so there's a lot going on there," Cook had said in the post-earnings conference call with investors in February 2023.
Actor Ileana D'Cruz on Tuesday announced that she will soon welcome her first child.

The actor shared the news in an Instagram post. "Coming soon. Can't wait to meet you my little darling," Ileana wrote alongside two photographs-- a baby romper with "And so the adventure begins" printed on it and a "Mama" pendant.

Many of her industry friends and colleagues congratulated the actor on the post. Ileana's mother Samira D'Cruz commented, "Welcome soon to the world my new grand baby can't wait."

"Ahhh congratulations my love this is amazing news," Shibani Dandekar wrote.

Nisha Aggarwal commented, "So beautiful. Congratulations. Nargis Fakhri posted love-struck and clapping hands emoji.

On the work front, Ileana recently featured in a music video of the song Sab Gazab, sung by Goldkartz and Badshah. Her last movie outing was Abhishek Bachchan-led The Red Bull.
Startups in this years AWS Space Accelerator program include, from left, Lunasonde, which is developing a space-based radar sounding system; Raven Space Systems, which is building 3D-printed re-entry capsules; and Rogue Space Systems, which focuses of space robotic systems.

The 14 startups selected for Amazon Web Services third annual AWS Space Accelerator program include a company thats building 3D-printed space capsules, a company thats developing a fleet of space robots  and even a company thats headquartered in Amazons neck of the woods.

Seattle-based Integrate is the first startup from Washington state chosen to participate in the program.

Im stoked (all pun intended) to be supported by a Seattle-based company  as the Seattle space startup scene has grown so much over the past 10 years, Integrate co-founder and CEO John Conafay told GeekWire in an email.

Integrate was founded last year and raised $970,000 in a pre-seed investment round led by Village Global. Conafay said the companys team consists of five people and an additional few part-timers.

Were building software for program management of complex hardware, starting with the space industry, Conafay said. Ive worked in the industry for the better part of a decade and have seen the complexity of putting multiple spacecraft on a single launch with outdated or no digital tools, and we aim to fix that.

Integrates management software is in private beta, with wider release scheduled for later this month. We currently have over 30 organizations testing the platform, with a few notable paying customers such as Orbit Fab, Isar Aerospace and TrustPoint, Conafay said.

Integrates team includes Kellie Higa, full-stack engineer; Andrew Sloan, head of product and operations; John Conafay, CEO; and Paul Reesman, chief architect. (Integrate Photo)

Conafay said hes looking forward to the extra support that AWS will provide through the Space Accelerator program. He said Integrate turned to AWS Govcloud when it needed to build a platform that was in compliance with export controls on space technology, known as the International Traffic in Arms Regulations or ITAR.

Cloud computing is incredibly important to our business strategy, as handling all of the ITAR restrictions with an on-premises solution would be very difficult  in addition, it allows us to scale to hundreds of thousands of users and anticipate our costs easily, he said.

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The AWS team is probably the most well-connected of any weve come across, and has the government, founder and industry experience to support us through early-stage growth as we go out to raise our next round, Conafay said.

Clint Crosier, director of AWS Aerospace and Satellite Solutions, said in a blog posting that the Space Accelerator will help Integrate and the other startups leverage flexible, agile cloud tools that will help power their space missions and innovate faster.

The four-week curriculum begins in May. Participants will receive business development and strategy support, mentoring, specialized AWS training and up to $100,000 in AWS credits through AWS Activate. The curriculum also will provide opportunities to work with AWS customers and members of the AWS Partner Network who are interested in the startups business solutions.

Participants will show their stuff at a demo day in San Francisco on July 19.

The AWS Space Accelerator 2023 cohort members and the AWS Venture Capital and Startups teams met to launch this years program. (AWS Photo)

Experts from AWS and TechConnect selected this years Space Accelerator startups out of hundreds of applicants. In addition to Integrate, the class includes:

Delta-V Analytics , a Delaware-based venture with a cloud-based platform that automates satellite constellation operations using digital twin technology.

GATE Space , an Austrian company that aims to enable the next generation of in-space mobility by providing scalable and cost-efficient plug-and-play mobility to satellites and orbital transfer vehicles.

GRASP , a French company with a mission to develop satellite instruments and products that provide a full picture of the Earths atmosphere and surface.

In Orbit Aerospace , a California startup thats building infrastructure to support mass manufacturing in space, including uncrewed orbital platforms and re-entry vehicles,

Kawa Space . a California company that provides space-powered signals intelligence, electronic intelligence and maritime domain awareness as a service.

Little Place Labs , a Texas company that specializes in providing near-real-time space analytics, using advanced machine learning algorithms that are deployed directly on satellites and other space infrastructures.

Lunasonde , an Arizona company thats developing a radar technology to scan the globe from space and build up a three-dimensional atlas of valuable underground resources.

Nominal , a Texas company creating continuous validation software for hardware organizations that are testing and deploying high-stakes, complex systems.

Raven Space Systems , a Kansas company thats building entirely 3D-printed re-entry capsules for on-demand cargo return from space.

Rogue Space Systems , a startup in New Hampshire that will provides in-space services through autonomous robotic systems,

Space Kinetic , a New Mexico company that aims to turn solar power into low-cost, in-space mobility with a novel electromechanical propulsion system.

Violet Labs , a company headquartered in Minnesota that offers cloud-based software integration for complex hardware engineering.

Xona Space Systems, a California company whose PULSAR service is a commercial Super-GPS designed to provide unprecedented precision, protection and availability.

In addition to announcing this years participants, AWS turned the spotlight on Orbital Sidekick, a startup that took part in the first AWS Space Accelerator program in 2021. Orbital Sidekick, also known as OSK, uses satellite technology and cloud-centric data analytics to help the energy industry protect pipelines and make them less vulnerable to risks.

Already, OSKs monitoring and intelligent analytic technologies powered by AWS have monitored more than 12,000 miles of pipelines to date, flagging nearly 100 suspected methane leaks, 200 suspected liquid hydrocarbon leaks and more than 300 intrusive events related to construction activities, Mirza Nizamuddin, a senior solutions architect for AWS Aerospace and Satellite Solutions, said in a blog posting.

More from GeekWire:
Given the 1.2 billion population of India, the money spent on healthcare is not sufficient, said Sanjay Lalbhai, chancellor of Ahmedabad University in Ahmedabad on Tuesday.



He was speaking at a programme organised to launch the School for Public Health at the University. The school, one of its kind, aims to improve health and environment locally, nationally and globally. Under the leadership of dean Kaumudi Joshipura, doctor of science in epidemiology from Harvard University, the school will also train leaders who can develop holistic solutions to interdisciplinary problems pertinent to the 21st Century. It will also educate and inspire individuals, communities and organisations.



Lalbhai, who also heads Arvind Limited, said though the government has been doing well in the last few years, there is a long way to go when the outlay in healthcare is compared with what other countries spend.



However, he said it is not fair to push all the problems to the government and urged the corporates to come forward.





The launch function was an insight of sorts into the kind of research, teachings and collaborations the School of Public Health intends to take up in the course of time.



The panel discussion on Planetary and Human Health saw Dileep Mavalankar, director of the Indian Institute of Public Health, Gandhinagar, touching upon the issue of climate change, soil characteristics affecting health.



Minal Pathak, associate professor of Global Centre for Environment and Energy at the AU, said as per Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change report the future does not look great. Understanding and forecasting will help mitigate climate change and its impact on human health, said Pathak, who has been part of panels drafting many IPCC reports.



Founding CEO of Ayushman Bharat and chairperson of Partnerships for Impact (P4i) Indu Bhushan said with the heat maps they could zero in on places where there were a large number of cancer cases or for that matter find out influenza-like illnesses. The heat maps, he said, were helpful to them to get to the root of the problem resulting in these diseases/illnesses.



He also said during Covid-19, perhaps more people died because of other illnesses as the medical fraternity was focused on the pandemic. Bhushan was explaining how cyclones or other calamities can disturb the healthcare system.



Mavalankar said while Indias immunisation system has been the best in the world and the family planning and polio eradication have also been good, unfortunately, environmental health has been a blind spot. There is no environmental epidemiologist and now there is the problem of climate change, he added.



There were suggestions that like in the Western countries, the mortality data be made available in the country so that reasons of deaths can be looked into and the problems can be addressed.



Subroto Bagchi, co-founder of Mindtree and chairman of Odisha Skill Development Authority, spoke about how during Covid-19 in Odisha they explained to the people about the virus and drove home the point of getting isolated. Bagchi said they made it simple in a manner the general public can understand and gave an example of Lord Jagannath having a bath in public (a ritual in Odisha), then catching fever and the doors for darshan remaining closed for a few days. The food offerings to the Almighty are also reduced during those days.



He also an interesting thing that in Odisha they asked people not to isolate a particular community. Bagchi said after the Tablighi Jamaat programme in New Delhi everybody was blaming the community as if it was the only one spreading Covid-19. He said they asked people not to isolate the community as it will lead to communal disharmony.



A chair of professorship in Public Health has been introduced in the name of Bagchi and his wife Susmita, writer and chairperson of MoSchool, Odisha.



Professor Pankaj Chandra, vice chancellor of AU, dwelt upon the fact to address complex challenges. He also spoke about how the AU collaborated with Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation during Covid-19 on the communication strategy.
A crude bomb was hurled in a bylane near the residence of a lawyer of Atiq Ahmad on Tuesday, sparking panic in the area as the incident came just three days after the sensational killing of the gangster-turned politician and his brother.

No one was injured in the incident in Katra locality and a case has been registered, police said and claimed Atiq's lawyer Dayashankar Mishra was not the target and the incident was a fallout of personal enmity between two youths. However, the lawyer claimed that it was an attempt "to create fear and terror".

In a statement issued in Lucknow, Special Director General of Police (Law and Order) Prashant Kumar said, "On getting information about a bomb being hurled in Gobarwali Gali, police reached the spot... it emerged that Harshit Sonkar had a dispute with Akash Singh, Raunak Yadav and Chhote Singh, due to which Harshit attacked them with a bomb. However, no one was injured."

"This attack took place in a bylane in front of the residence of Dayashankar Mishra. However, rumour is being spread that Dayashankar Mishra was attacked. This is false information. The spot is being inspected and there is no problem of law and order," the statement said.

Though Atiq's lawyer, who rushed to the house from the court on getting information about the incident, said his daughter and locals told him about three bombs, the police maintained that only one crude bomb exploded.

Assistant Commissioner of Police, Shivkuti, Rajesh Kumar Yadav said the culprit will be arrested soon.

"I was in the court when my son informed me that bombs had been hurled. I rushed home. ...I think this has been done to frighten me, to create terror. It is a big conspiracy... It is for the police to find out who is behind this," Atiq's lawyer Dayashankar Mishra told reporters.

"My daughter and the locals saw that there was one person involved and three bombs were hurled," he claimed.

Mishra had represented Atiq Ahmad and his brother Ashraf in the 2006 case of abduction of Umesh Pal, who was a witness in the 2005 murder of then BSP MLA Raju Pal and was shot dead on February 24 this year allegedly at the gangster's behest.

Atiq Ahmad (60) and his brother Ashraf were shot dead at point-blank range by three men posing as journalists during a media scrum on Saturday night while police personnel were escorting the duo to a medical college in Prayagraj for a checkup.

The brothers, both jailed in Prayagraj, were in handcuffs when they were killed on Saturday night in full view of camera crews around 10 pm.

The three assailants - Lavlesh Tiwari (22) of Banda, Mohit alias Sunny (23) of Hamirpur and Arun Maurya (18) of Kasganj - were arrested soon after the dramatic shootout that took place in full view of camera crews outside the Prayagraj hospital.

They were shifted to Pratapgarh jail Monday from Naini jail in Prayagraj for security reasons.

Atiq's son is also lodged in Naini jail.
In a tragic incident, four workers were killed and 20 injured after a three-storeyed rice mill building collapsed in Karnal, Haryana on Tuesday. According to the officials, may are feared trapped under the debris.

Workers used to sleep inside the building, said the officials.

Fire brigade, police, NDRF team and ambulance have reached the spot and the rescue operations are underway.

#WATCH | Haryana: Several rice mill workers feared being trapped under debris after a three-storeyed rice mill building collapsed in Karnal. Workers used to sleep inside the building. Fire brigade, police and ambulance have reached the spot. Rescue operations underway. pic.twitter.com/AFzN9HDPYw  ANI (@ANI) April 18, 2023

Four people dead and 20 were injured in the incident. We have started the rescue operation. NDRF and SDRF teams will also reach here. No one is missing now, we have cross-checked the list of workers, said Karnal SP Shashank Kumar.

"There were a total of 24 affected in the incident. Nearly 150 lived in the structure and some managed to come out from windows timely. Out of the 24 affected persons, 20 are injured and four are dead," Shashank Kumar told PTI. "Prima facie it appears the building was structurally unsafe. For this a committee has been set up headed by a Sub-Divisional Magistrate. Executive engineer (Buildings and Roads) will be its member. They will submit report in the incident", he added.

The police will take action against those responsible for the mishap after the investigation.
Dismissing speculations of a split in the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), senior party leader and former Maharashtra deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar has said there is 'no truth in rumours' of him joining the BJP.

I am with NCP, will remain with the party, Ajit said on Tuesday, shortly after his uncle and party supremo Sharad Pawar brushed aside reports of a meeting of NCP MLAs willing to shift to the ruling Eknath Shinde-BJP alliance. Sharad Pawar added that they were focused on strengthening the NCP.

I have not taken the signatures of any MLAs, Ajit told ANI on Tuesday.

Sharad Pawar also dismissed reports of the meeting of MLAs. "The party's state president (Jayant Patil) is busy with market committee elections in his region. Ajit Pawar, is also busy with the work of the party and providing guidance to everyone," he added.

Rumours about Ajit Pawar's next political move started swirling last week when he suddenly cancelled his scheduled meetings and also made comments which were seen as being soft on the BJP and Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's camp. Meanwhile, two NCP MLAsAnna Bansode and Manikrao Kokatealso added to the buzz with their comments that they will remain loyal to their leader Ajit Pawar no matter what "decision" he takes in the coming days.

One of the legislators, Manikrao, even said if the Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly joins hands with the BJP, most of the NCP MLAs (numbering 53) will go with him. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Sunday claimed NCP chief Sharad Pawar recently told former CM Uddhav Thackeray that his party will never join hands with the BJP even if someone in the party takes an individual decision to do so.

Raut also stated that the BJP was trying to break the NCP, but will not succeed.

The recent political buzz around Ajit Pawar brings back memories of 2019 when he joined hands with Devendra Fadnavis to form a government, albeit short-lived. The Fadnavis-Ajit Pawar government lasted for only three days as they did not have the numbers, and it was followed by the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress 'Maha Vikas Aghadi government.
Amid the Nandini versus Amul battle in Karnataka, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel stressed on Monday that there is no need to boycott Amul in the southern state.

The row involving the two unions -- Nandini and Amul -- started recently, after the latter announced that it would supply its milk varieties in Bengaluru.

"There is no need to boycott Amul in my view. You keep doing what you want to do. If Amul is snatching something, it is a matter of protest," Patel said.

The opposition Congress and Janata Dal (Secular) in Karnataka have alleged that the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) wants to "kill" Nandini by allowing Amul in the southern state.

They have also expressed their apprehension that a scarcity of Nandini products would be created to make way for Amul to take over.

The Basavaraj Bommai-led BJP government in Karnataka has, however, denied the charge, saying there is no threat to Nandini from Amul.

Third list

With just three days left for the deadline of filing nominations for the May 10 Assembly elections in Karnataka, the ruling BJP on Monday announced candidates for 10 more constituencies.

The party has fielded state BJP General Secretary Mahesh Tenginkai from the Hubli-Dharwad Central Assembly segment, which was represented by former Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar, who joined the Congress today upset that he was overlooked for the contest by the saffron party.

In three seats, family members of party leaders have been given tickets. While former Minister and MLA Aravind Limbavali's wife Manjula Arvind Limbavali has got the ticket for the Mahadevapura Constituency, the party has fielded Katta Jagadish, son of former Minister Katta Subramanya Naidu from Hebbal.

Koppal Lok Sabha member Karadi Sanganna's daughter in-law Manjula Amaresh has been made the candidate from Koppal Assembly segment. Karadi Sanganna himself was a ticket aspirant from the segment and had planned to quit from his Parliament membership as well as from the party over delay in the ticket announcement.

In Bengaluru's Govindraj Nagar, Umesh Shetty has been given the ticket. Senior Minister V Somanna, who currently represents the seat, had requested the party to give his son Arun Somanna a chance from the constituency, after he was fielded from two Assembly segments- Chamarajanagar and Varuna (against Congress leader Siddaramaiah).

In Mysuru district's Krishnaraja Assembly segment a new face, Srivatsa, has been given the ticket as the party dropped four-time MLA S A Ramadas.

According to party sources, Shettar's exit seems to have influenced decision-making vis-a-vis the third list with the party giving tickets to family members of senior leaders or legislators who were aspirants, and renominating a couple of sitting MLAs.

Sitting MLAs Rajkumar Patil and Kalakappa Bandi have been renominated from the Sedam and Ron seats, respectively.

The BJP had earlier announced the first and second list of 189 and 23 candidates respectively, totalling 212 of the total 224 seats; now with the announcement of 10 more seats the figure stands at 222. The two seats remaining are Shivamogga and Manvi.

K S Eshwarappa, a former Deputy Chief Minister, has told the party's central leadership that he wishes to retire from electoral politics and has requested it to not consider fielding him in the Assembly polls from Shivamogga. He is however said to be seeking a candidacy for his son K E Kantesh from the seat.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) will probe the incident wherein pro-Khalistani protestors vandalised the Indian High Commission in London and pulled down the national flag.

The Counter Terrorism and Counter Radicalisation unit of the Ministry of Home Affairs handed over the case to the NIA a few days ago, reported ANI. The decision to hand over the probe to the NIA came after a meeting with UK representatives last week.

The NIA has reportedly registered an FIR and begun its probe. A case has been registered under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and the officials with the agency will travel to London to investigate a larger conspiracy, which allegedly involves Pakistan's ISI. The team will be led by an officer of Deputy Inspector General Rank.

The incident on March 19 in London, a day after the crackdown on radical preacher Amritpal Singh. Seeking freedom for Amritpal Singh to be "freed", a group of pro-Khalistan protestors marched to the Indian Mission. The videos from the scene showed one of the protesters, identified as Avtar Singh alias Khanda, climbing onto the balcony and pulling down the Indian flag from a pole.

According to the FIR, Khanda led the March and another person, identified as Gurcharan Singh, instigated the mob of around 50-60 persons.

This comes as India last week conveyed its concerns on the misuse of the United Kingdom's asylum status by the pro-Khalistani elements to aid and abet terrorist activities in India.

"The Indian side specifically conveyed its concerns on the misuse of UKs asylum status by the pro-Khalistani elements to aid and abet terrorist activities in India and requested better cooperation with the UK and increased monitoring of UK based Pro-Khalistan extremists and take appropriate proactive action, the home ministry said in a statement issued after the 5th India-UK Home Affairs Dialogue (HAD) held in New Delhi.
Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray has vowed to "fight for democracy" alongside the Congress, despite the differences in their ideologies. The former Maharashtra chief minister's statement came after he met All India Congress Committee general secretary KC Venugopal on Monday evening.

The meeting has added impetus to the broader opposition unity in the wake of 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge had met Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, his deputy Tejashwi Yadav and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar last week.

After welcoming Venugopal to Matoshree, Thackeray stressed on their alliance. He acknowledged there were ideological differences, "but it is a democracy and we have to come together with hardly a year left for the election."

"They (BJP) only want power and we Shiv Sena are here to save democracy," he said, adding that the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thakarey) and Congress will come together in the "fight for democracy".

He also accused BJP of betrayal. "We maintained a relationship with the BJP for 25-30 years. But they did not understand who was a friend and who was an opponent. We will together fight for democracy in the country," he said.

"Last time when BJP chief JP Nadda came to Mumbai, he said that there will be only one party and that is BJP. This is the biggest betrayal to all other parties. The way they tried to finish Shiv Sena and betrayed the party, they are trying to do the same with other parties too," he said.

Thackeray said his party had spoken to Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, adding the (Lok Sabha) elections are not even a year away.

Meanwhile, Venugopal told reporters that the Congress is in full solidarity with the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT).

"We have witnessed how democracy has been sabotaged by Modi and Amit Shah. All the opposition parties have a general consensus to fight together against the dictatorship of Modi. The Congress is in full solidarity with the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT). We are all in agreement that we have to fight these forces (BJP) together," he said.

Venugopal said the Central Bureau of Investigation and the Enforcement Directorate were targeting opposition parties, especially the Shiv Sena (UBT).

Speaking on his discussion with Thackeray, the Congress leader said it was a fruitful one where a lot of issues were deliberated upon. "Hum saath hain (we are together) is the message we want to give. I have requested Uddhavji to come to Delhi to meet Soniaji. Then Rahul Gandhi will also definitely visit Mumbai, he said in response to a media query.

(With inputs from PTI)
BJP and AAP bury their rivalry and come together to tackle the separatist menace
The FBI, on Monday, arrested two men on charges that they helped establish a secret police station in New York City on behalf of the Chinese government, and about three dozen officers with China's national police force were charged with using social media to harass dissidents inside the United States, authorities said Monday.



Lu Jianwang, 61, and Chen Jinping, 59, both New York residents face charges of obstruction of justice and conspiring to act as agents for China. They were charged with using social media to track down and harass dissidents in the US. They are expected to appear in federal court in Brooklyn on Monday, the BBC reported.

The duo was arrested for establishing the first overseas police station in the United States on behalf of China's Ministry of Public Security.

According to the US Department of Justice, the outpost was closed in the autumn of 2022, after they got wind of an FBI investigation into the station.

"This prosecution reveals the Chinese government's flagrant violation of our nation's sovereignty by establishing a secret police station in the middle of New York City," said Breon Pearce, the top prosecutor in Brooklyn told BBC.
A massive landslide struck a key highway near the Torkham border town in northwestern Pakistan that killed at least two Afghan citizens, injured eight others and buried some 20 trucks on Tuesday morning, according to a media report.



The landslide occurred in the early hours of Tuesday following a strong thunderstorm on the main road through Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Khyber Pass near the Afghanistan border, burying the trucks transporting goods, the Dawn newspaper reported.

According to rescue officials, two Afghan citizens have been killed in the landslide and authorities were trying to recover their bodies.

"Two Afghan citizens had been killed in the landslide and authorities were trying to recover the bodies. At least eight people were injured and they have been provided with first aid," Abdul Nasir Khan, the deputy commissioner of the Khyber district, was quoted as saying.

Other officials said that the wreckage of the landslide is quite extensive and our rescue operation is continuing with heavy machinery.

The incident site is part of the main route connecting Pakistan with land-locked Afghanistan, a major transit point for trade between the South Asian nations and into Central Asia.

Meanwhile, officials also said a fire had broken out immediately after the landslide as drivers were cooking meals for sehri on gas stoves.

The blaze is now under control, the report said.
Persistence Market Research

Increasing Government Investments in Development of Efficient Healthcare Systems Aiding Demand Growth for VEGF Inhibitors: Persistence Market Research

New York, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Backed by the rising need for VEGF inhibitors in cancer therapy, the global Anti-VEGF Market was valued at US$ 22.7 billion in 2022 and is predicted to expand at a CAGR of 3.9% from 2023 to 2033. Demand for VEGF inhibitors is projected to reach US$ 34.9 billion by the end of 2033.

Anti-VEGF, or vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors, constitute a category of drugs employed to manage different forms of cancer, such as kidney, colon, lung, liver, breast, and glioblastoma (a malignant brain tumor). These belong to the class of medications called "tyrosine kinase inhibitors," which curtail blood supply to tumors.

In cancer treatment, VEGF inhibitors are used to prevent the growth of blood vessels that supply tumors with oxygen and nutrients, which can slow down or stop the growth of the tumor. They are often used in combination with chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Click Here to Get Free Sample Copy of this Report@ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/33422

Sustainable development strategies, acquisitions, collaborations in research activities, and manufacturing capabilities are some trends observed among the key market players. Leading players such as Sanofi SA, Novartis AG, F. Hoffmann La-Roche Ltd., and Pfizer Inc. among others are currently dominating the global anti-VEGF market.

To expand their customer base and increase their market share, market players are concentrating on forming alliances with new businesses.

In August 2022, Sanofi's partnered with Innovent Biologics to create and distribute drugs in China for patients with cancers that are challenging to manage.

Key Takeaways from Market Study

The global anti-VEGF market is expected to reach a valuation of US$ 34.9 billion by 2033.

Biologics accounted for 73.3% share of the anti-VEGF market in 2022.

Story continues

VEGF-A inhibitors held 49.1% share of the global market in 2022.

By disease indication, oncology held a market share of 95.5% in 2022.

The hospitals segment accounted for a market share of 49.4% in 2022.

North America held 58.3% share of the global market in 2022.

The global anti-VEGF market is predicted to expand steadily owing to the growing utilization of combination treatments and the escalating number of clinical trials for anti-VEGF drugs, says an analyst at Persistence Market Research.

Get Full Access of this Report@ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/checkout/33422

Market Competition

Anti-VEGF medications are used to inhibit the development of blood vessels that provide nourishment to tumors, providing treatment for a variety of cancers. The VEGF inhibitor market is subject to continuous change, as new drugs are developed and authorized for use in different types of cancer.

Major players in the industry are concentrating on licensing and acquisition agreements, with the aim of expanding their customer base and augmenting their range of products. Instead of relying on mergers and acquisitions, the company contends that partner synergy has a direct impact on growth.

In November 2021 , Sanofi acquired Kadmon to strengthen the growth and expansion of its general medicines portfolio.

In February 2019, Eli Lilly and Company acquired Loxo Oncology, Inc. The collaboration aims to strengthen Eli Lillys oncology portfolio through Loxo Oncology Incs pipeline of highly selective medicines for genomically defined cancer patients.

What Does the Report Cover?

Persistence Market Research offers a unique perspective and actionable insights into the anti-VEGF market in its latest study, presenting a historical demand assessment for 2012 to 2022 and projections for 2023 to 2033.

You Can Customize this Report As per Your Requirement Click Here@ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/request-customization/33422

The research study is based on

Drug: (small molecules [Pazopanib, Sunitinib, Sorafenib, Regorafenib, Cabozantinib, Lenvatinib, Ponatinib, Cabozantinib, Axitinib, Tivozanib, Vandetanib, Anlotinib, Apatinib, Fruquintinib, Surufatinib), Biologics (Bevacizumab, Aflibercept, Ramucirumab]),

By Type: (VEGF-A inhibitors, VEGF-B inhibitors, VEGF-C inhibitors, placenta growth factor inhibitors),



By Disease indication: (oncology [non-small cell lung cancer, renal cell carcinoma, colorectal cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, cervical cancer, others], hematology disorders, ophthalmology disorders [wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, others]),



By distribution channel (hospitals, specialty clinics, mail order pharmacies), across seven key regions of the world.



Persistence Market Researchs Expertise in Life Sciences and Transformational Health



Our expert team of industry analysts comprising management graduates, medical professionals, engineers, and project managers provides insights on emerging therapy areas, diagnostic tools, medical devices and components, reimbursement and market access, biotechnology, and life sciences research products and services to equip decision-makers with sound inputs and strategic recommendations.

Other Trending Reports:

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Business intelligence is the foundation of every business model employed by Persistence Market Research. Multi-dimensional sources are being put to work, which include big data, customer experience analytics, and real-time data collection. Thus, working on micros by Persistence Market Research helps companies overcome their macro business challenges.

Persistence Market Research is always way ahead of its time. In other words, it tables market solutions by stepping into the companies/clients shoes much before they themselves have a sneak pick into the market. The pro-active approach followed by experts at Persistence Market Research helps companies/clients lay their hands on techno-commercial insights beforehand, so that the subsequent course of action could be simplified on their part.

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The United States wants free flow of goods, ideas and people in the Indo-Pacific, across land, sea and cyberspace, according to senior state department officials. They were speaking at a briefing offered to a panel of journalists from India and Taiwan held at Washington, DC, organised by the think tank East West Centre in association with the US embassy in India.

Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Afreen Akhter stressed the importance of the Quad in the Indo-Pacific and said the grouping was among the foremost avenues for building connectivity within the region and beyond. The US is working on deepening engagement through the Quad Infrastructure Coordination Group, which has provided more than $48 billion in official finance, said Akhter.

Efforts are underway to support economic growth and prosperity in the region through the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF). Its main focus is on clean energy, digital and technology sectors and reinforcing regional economies to withstand likely threats of supply chain disruption and corruption. India is a key partner in this initiative, with India-US trade touching $160 billion in 2021 despite restrictions imposed by the pandemic. Other initiatives like the Investment Incentive Agreement and the one on Critical and Emerging Technology are also important, said Akhter, especially in key areas like space cooperation and semiconductors.

Enhancing security cooperation is another major challenge. Akhter cited the example of the new Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness which is expected to help Indian Ocean rim countries to defend their coastal waters against drug trafficking, illegal fishing an other security threats.

The US is working on combating threats like climate change and preventing the outbreak of pandemics like Covid. As part of the initiative, Quad members held the first Indo-Pacific Pandemic Preparedness Tabletop Exercise to equip regional countries to better respond to a novel viral outbreak before it develops into a pandemic. The ASEAN Centre for Pandemic Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases has been set up to focus on infection prevention, antibiotic resistance and zoonotic diseases.

Camille P. Dawson, deputy assistant secretary for east Asian and Pacific affairs, touched upon the growing threat of democratic recession in the region, and gave the example of Myanmar, which is undermining peace and stability in the region. She stressed the importance of protecting and preserving democracy in the region and explained how the Biden administration is keen on avoiding democratic backsliding which would hurt US interests in the Indo-Pacific. She explained the significance of the Summit of Democracy the US was hosting along with South Korea.

The US is also working with Japan for a strategic dialogue to promote human rights and for nurturing democratic resilience. Meanwhile, it is expanding its diplomatic presence in the region by establishing new embassies in the Maldives, Tonga, Kiribati and the Solomon Islands. Another important initiative is the Partners in the Blue Pacific (PBP) programme in which Australia, New Zealand, Japan, the UK, Canada, Germany and South Korea are also members. India has an observer status in the PBP.

Dawson, meanwhile, underscored the centrality of ASEAN in the US policy towards the Indo-Pacific and spoke about the unprecedented expansion in US-ASEAN relations. She said the US was working to bolster regional security by modernising its security partnerships, holding more joint exercises, promoting the capabilities of its partners and forming new grouping like AUKUS. The US is also augmenting its security presence in the region by designating four new Enhanced Defence Cooperation (EDCA) sites with the Philippines. Climate crisis is another focus area and the Just Energy Transition Partnership with Indonesia is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Senior state department official Matt Murray said the US remained the key economic partner for countries in the Indo-Pacific, evident from its investments worth $1 trillion and two-way trade worth $2 trillion. To further promote trade integration with the region, the US recently hosted the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation as a platform to advance free, fair and open trade and investment. Washington expects its trade policies in the region to help its partner countries while at the same time ensuring prosperity for American families and workers. Murray also spoke about the importance of the APEC and the IPEF in President Biden's scheme of things. The IPEF basically covers four broad areas: trade, supply chains, clean economy, fair economy. The US is hopeful that IPEF partners could make progress as quickly as possible with negotiations under the four pillars. Beyond APEC and IPEF, Murray also discussed how the US is deepening its economic engagement with the Quad partners, focusing on infrastructure, climate, health security and critical and emerging technologies. Quad partners pledged $5.2 billion to fight Covid-19, said Murray. They also delivered over 670 million vaccine doses worldwide, including 265 million doses to the Indo-Pacific.
The power struggle in Sudan is escalating with the death toll rising day by day. Since the fighting began, around 200 were killed and over 1,800 got injured according to UN envoy Volker Perthes.

Reportedly, with several bodies found lying on the streets in central Khartoum the death toll is likely to go up.

Meanwhile, US Secretary of the State Antony Blinken on Tuesday confirmed that a US diplomatic convoy was fired on in Sudan, but all were safe. He also added that an investigation in underway.

"I can confirm that yesterday we had an American diplomatic convoy that was fired on. All of our people are safe and unharmed. But this action was reckless, it was irresponsible and of course unsafe," he told reporters in Japan after G7 talks.

Also, Blinken spoke to both the commanders of the Army and Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and called for a ceasefire.

I spoke to both Sudanese Armed Forces Commander Burhan & Rapid Support Forces Commander Dagalo and underscored the urgent need for a ceasefire. Too many civilian lives have already been lost. Stressed the importance of ensuring the safety of diplomatic personnel and aid workers, Blinken tweeted.

Also, the European Union's foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell tweeted that the EU ambassador to Sudan "was assaulted in his own residency". However further details are awaited regarding the assault.

People trapped

Several people are trapped in their homes or wherever they could find shelter, with supplies including food, water running low. Further worsening the situation, several hospitals were forced to shut down as well.

The Sudan Doctors' Syndicate said that out of a total 20 hospitals, 12 hospitals in the capital area have been forcefully evacuated and are out of service because of attacks or power outages. Four other hospitals outside the capital have also shut down, it said in a statement.

Gunfire and shelling reported in multiple parts of the capital and Omdurman. In central Khartoum, at least 88 students and staffers have been trapped in the engineering college library at Khartoum University since the start of fighting. Reportedly, one student was killed and another wounded in the attack.

The power struggle between Gen Abdel-Fattah Burhan, the commander of the armed forces, against Gen Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, the head of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group has paved way for a civil war.

The US, UK and UN had called for a truce. Egypt, which backs Sudan's military, and Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates which forged close ties to the RSF in recent years as it sent thousands of fighters to support their war in Yemen have also called for both sides to stand down, reported AP.

Residents said fierce fighting with artillery and other heavy weapons raged Monday afternoon in the Gabra neighbourhood southwest of Khartoum.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has told North Korean leader Kim Jong Un that the two countries should step up communication amid heightened tensions between the North and the South. Jiping had indicated that will push for a "higher stage" of relations with a long-time treaty ally. While relations between the two nations have fluctuated over the years, the breakdown of talks between the US and North Korea has spurred both sides to strengthen their alliance, an AFP report reads.



In a recent message to Kim, Xi stressed the traditional friendship between China and North Korea had weathered the trials of the changed international situation for a long time, constantly maintained the trend of its development and got stronger with the passage of time.



The international and regional situations are now changing seriously and in a complicated way, Xi told Kim, according to the Korean Central News Agency.



I am willing to strengthen strategic communication with Comrade General Secretary [Kim], jointly lead the direction of development of China-DPRK relations, and promote friendly cooperation between the two sides to a higher level, the message said, SCMP reported.

Earlier, G7 foreign ministers warned of a 'robust' response if North Korea did not "refrain" from further nuclear tests and ballistic missile launches.

On Friday, North Korea conducted its 11th missile test of this year so far-- firing a new solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile.
Mumbai, Apr 18 (PTI) The Bombay High Court on Tuesday rebuked the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) for not completing its probe against Jet Airways founder Naresh Goyal and his wife in a case of an alleged Rs 7,000 crore fraud.



A division bench of Justices Revati Mohite Dere and Sharmila Deshmukh expressed displeasure about the tardy pace of probe while allowing Goyal's wife Anita to travel to the United Arab Emirates for a month on April 20.



Naresh Goyal, however, failed to get a similar permission as the court said it could not hear his application in detail due to paucity of time.

The couple had moved the court seeking permission to travel abroad.



The SFIO, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Corporate Affairs Ministry, said it was opposed to the couple traveling together, but had no objection if Anita Goyal were to travel alone.



Advocate Hiten Venegaonkar, appearing for the central agency, told the court that the investigation against the Goyals, initiated in 2019, was still underway and was likely to be concluded by September 2023.

This drew sharp comments from the high court.

Your investigation is going on since 2019. You have to take your investigation to some logical end. Somewhere there has to be a closure in cases. You cannot go on endlessly with investigation, Justice Dere said.



Venegaonkar said the alleged fraud was of a huge magnitude, and Naresh Goyal was not extending his full co-operation.



The court then remarked that the SFIO must have able and efficient officers.

While permitting Anita Goyal to travel, the court suspended all the Look Out Circulars issued against her for a month.
New Delhi, Apr 18 (PTI) Co-working major WeWork India has taken on lease 92,000 square feet office space in Pune from Panchshil Realty to expand its business.

In a statement, WeWork India said it has signed a lease agreement for a new building 'Eleven West' in Pune.

Located in Baner, the workspace spans over 92,000 square feet and marks WeWork India's third transaction with real estate developer Panchshil Realty.

Arnav S Gusain, Head of Real Estate & Product, WeWork India, said, "This collaboration builds on our long-standing relationship with Panchshil Realty, which has consistently delivered quality workspaces to WeWork India."

Pune has emerged as one of the prominent cities for businesses seeking top-quality real estate, he said, adding that the company would expand its footprint in the city by providing world-class workspace experiences to the modern workforce.

Sagar Chordia, Director, Panchshil Realty, said, "WeWork India has been a credible partner of Panchshil Realty since 2019. WeWork India marked its first space take-up in the city at Futura, Pune, and the addition of its office space at Eleven West further strengthens our ties and reflects confidence in our workspaces."

WeWork India is one of the leading office space providers aimed at creating flexible workspace solutions for companies of all sizes. Since entering the Indian market in 2017, WeWork India has expanded its portfolio to more than 6.5 million square feet of assets signed across 44 locations in the national capital region (NCR), Mumbai, Bengaluru, Pune and Hyderabad.
KANPUR, India, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur is inviting applications for new cohorts (July 2023 intake) of eight eMasters degree programs in Economics and Finance in Business; Economics, Finance & Data Analysis; Economics, Finance, and Public Policy; Quantitative Finance and Risk Management; Financial Technology and Management, Data Science and Business Analytics, Communication Systems, and Sustainable Construction Practices and Project Management. The IITK eMasters degree programs launched in 2021, are designed to address the talent gap in core areas of Communication Systems, Fintech, Business Finance, Public Policy, Data Science, Analytics, Construction, Cybersecurity and Power regulations.



India's economy is rapidly growing and undergoing significant changes fueled by foreign direct investments and economic reforms. The country is now a global hub for material and services sourcing with a focus on manufacturing and service industries. In addition, sustainable construction has led to a 37% growth in green-certified buildings, while providing numerous job opportunities. Some estimates suggest that the global communications market is expected to reach around $400 billion by 2030, while opportunities for skilled professionals in finance sector, data analytics and fintech startups are set to grow manifold.



India requires a highly skilled workforce in all these fields to meet this upcoming talent gap. IIT Kanpur has designed these programs keeping such requirement in mind. The response to these programs has been phenomenal from the inaugural cohorts, demonstrating the high level of interest among professionals in pursuing further education in these areas.



Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Director, IIT Kanpur, says, "The rapid growth of India's economy and the increasing demand for skilled professionals in various industries has created a talent gap that needs to be addressed. IIT Kanpur's eMasters degree programs have witnessed terrific participation from working professionals looking to upskill themselves. The first batches of the programs completed the academic requirements within a year itself. These relatively new programs in Economics and Finance, Data Science and Business Analytics, Communication Systems, and Sustainable Construction Practices are designed to make the workforce agile and future-ready."



The executive-friendly eMasters degree programs do not require a GATE score for applying and can be pursued while being already employed. The flexibility of completion between 1-3 years is an added bonus of these unique programs.



The industry relevant programs offer the scope of self-paced learning, coupled with a high-impact format with weekend-only live interactive classes. The 60-credit, 12-module industry-focused real-world curricula are taught by world-class faculty and researchers from IIT Kanpur. These also offer a credits transfer facility where a waiver of up to 60 credits can be transferred for higher education (MTech/PhD) at IIT Kanpur. Participants of the program get access to the IIT Kanpur placement cell, incubation cell, and alumni network, making it a rich career advancement and networking experience. As a part of the immersive learning experience, participants get to visit the IIT Kanpur campus to meet the eminent faculty and network with experienced professionals.



Professionals opting for these programs gain multidimensional expertise to overcome challenges required to shape the future of the country. Unlike most other diploma or professional courses, the eMasters degree program at IIT Kanpur also gives formal Senate-approved degrees at the convocation. To know more about the programs and apply, click here: https://emasters.iitk.ac.in/



Application deadline for the July 2023 intake for all these programs is May 12, 2023.



Offered by Department of Civil Engineering



https://emasters.iitk.ac.in/course/masters-in-sustainable-construction-and-management



Offered by Department of Industrial and Management Engineering



https://emasters.iitk.ac.in/course/masters-in-quantitative-finance-risk-management



https://emasters.iitk.ac.in/course/masters-in-fintech-and-financial-management



https://emasters.iitk.ac.in/course/masters-in-data-science-and-business-analytics



Offered by the Department of Electrical Engineering



https://emasters.iitk.ac.in/course/masters-in-communication-systems



Offered by Department of Economic Sciences



https://emasters.iitk.ac.in/course/masters-in-economics-finance-for-businesses



https://emasters.iitk.ac.in/course/masters-in-economics-finance-data-analysis



https://emasters.iitk.ac.in/course/masters-in-economics-finance-public-policy



About IIT Kanpur:



Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur was established on 2nd November 1959 by an Act of Parliament. The institute has a sprawling campus spread over 1055 acres with large pool of academic and research resources spanning across 19 departments, 22 centres, and 3 Interdisciplinary programs in engineering, science, design, humanities, and management disciplines with 540 full-time faculty members and approximately 9000 students. In addition to formal undergraduate and postgraduate courses, the institute has been active in research and development in areas of value to both industry and government. For more information, visit www.iitk.ac.in.



(Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with PRNewswire and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). PTI PWR

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BANGALORE India, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Precision Survey is excited to announce the expansion of its operations to Hyderabad, Telangana. This move is a significant milestone for the company as it expands its footprint in the region.



Hyderabad is a dynamic city with a thriving business community and a diverse talent pool. Precision Survey is thrilled to be a part of this vibrant community and looks forward to working with businesses and organizations in the area.



With this expansion, Precision Survey is now able to provide its high-quality services to a broader range of clients in Hyderabad and the surrounding areas. The company's services include diversified civil engineering services like land surveyor valuation, wind power consultancy, due diligence technical property consultation, geotechnical, lidar, flood risk assessment and other allied engineering land surveyor in Hyderabadto the esteemed clients.



"We are thrilled to expand our operations to Hyderabad, Telangana," said Mr. P. Venkataramana Chief Managing Director Precision Survey. "We have been looking forward to this moment for a long time, and we are excited to be a part of such a dynamic and thriving community. Our goal is to provide our clients in Hyderabad with the same high-quality services that our customers have come to expect from us."



Precision Survey has a proven track record of delivering exceptional services to clients in various industries. The company's team of experts is committed to providing clients with innovative solutions that meet their specific needs.



For more information on Precision survey services or to schedule a consultation, please visit https://www.precisionsurveys.in/ or contact https://www.precisionsurveys.in/contact-us



About Precision Survey (India) Pvt Ltd.



Precision Survey are a team of well-qualified & professionally managed private limited company, serving the civil engineering industry since 1995. The company was founded by Mr. P Venkataramana (EX-principal from Dayananda Sagar Institute of Technology Bangalore) a veteran in the field of civil engineering with vast experience in various infrastructure & civil engineering projects & has served in various capacities. We have been providing diversified civil engineering services like surveying, valuation, wind power consultancy, due diligence technical property consultation, geotechnical, lidar, and other allied engineering surveying services to our esteemed clients. We have gained immense technical knowledge and expertise on the above subjects over the years and have continually strived to improvise & update ourselves to ensure quality services for the benefit and growth of our clients & industry alike.



Media Contact:



Precision Survey India

+91-9606030024

precisionsurveyshyderabad@gmail.com



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New Delhi, Apr 18 (PTI) In a setback to the French spirits major Pernod Ricard, the Delhi government has rejected its application for renewal of sales licence on the ground of the ongoing investigations against the company.

The excise department of the government of the national capital territory of Delhi had last week decided not to renew the sales licence of Pernod Ricard, said official sources.

An application from Pernod Ricard was received in September 2022 and it was not accepted then. Following this, the liquor major went to the court which directed the excise department to formally take a decision. That application has been now rejected, they said.

The decision was taken on the ground of ongoing investigations against the company in matters related to violation of the excise policy of the Delhi government, sources added.

A response could not be ascertained from Pernod Ricard.

Meanwhile, the excise department has also rejected the licence of Indospirits and Brindco.

Pernod Ricard has the right to appeal against the order before the higher authorities or take a legal course.

This is a setback for Pernod Ricard as India is among its fast-growing markets.

Pernod Ricard competes with the British multinational alcoholic beverage company Diageo, which owns United Spirits Ltd here, and some other domestic manufacturers.

Pernod Ricard is the world's second-largest wine and spirits organisation and its portfolio comprises over 200 premium brands, including 100 Pipers, Chivas Regal, The Glenlivet, Absolut, Havana Club and Jacob's Creek.

It also owns Indian brands such as Blenders Pride and Royal Stag.

Pernod Ricard India is alleged to have financially supported some of its Delhi retailers to stock more of its brands. For this, some officials from the liquor firm allegedly provided bank guarantees.

Earlier, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) had arrested Pernod Ricard's executive Benoy Babu in November last year, in the now-scrapped Delhi excise policy-related money laundering case.

The trial court had denied bail to Babu and other accused in the case.

Now the bail matter is still pending before the Delhi High Court.

Regarding Babu, the trial court had said the oral and documentary evidence suggested he was the brain behind the decision taken by the accused company, Pernod Ricard, for furnishing corporate guarantees of Rs 200 crore for the loans availed by other members of the cartel from HSBC Bank.

This, the court said, was considered an investment to take control of the retail liquor business and to achieve the highest market share in the sale of liquor brands by the company.

The money laundering case stems from a CBI FIR which was lodged in the matter after Delhi Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena recommended a CBI probe.

The Delhi government implemented the excise policy on November 17, 2021, but scrapped it after the CBI probe was recommended amid allegations of corruption.

The government went back to its old excise policy, which was operational before November 17, 2021, from September 1, 2022, in which private players in retail liquor sales were replaced by its four corporations.
 The most advanced award-winning technology tools to help enterprises in automobile for pricing, inspection, and historical records for automobile

 Droom expects INR 100 crore incremental revenue from Droom Cloud Services sold as subscription (SAAS)

New Delhi, April 2023; Enabling automobile Enterprises and SMEs in their critical and high economic value decisions, Droom has launched Droom Cloud Services, based on its propriety technology and data-science based software products.



The automobile market is a high touch and feel and low propensity market, selling high ticket items which creates a high trust deficit while buying and selling automobiles or issuing insurance, policy, or loans approval. In the used vehicle market, there is a high amount of information asymmetry, lack of transparency and no standardization model of product or service delivery. To deal with the informational asymmetry of the Indian automobile market and solve that herculean task, Droom started building automobile ecosystem tools which could create adoption for automobile online.



Droom launched the pioneer Droom Cloud Services which is an automobile cloud platform which offers Transactional Services to large enterprises and SMEs for enablement of transaction and also generates a trust factor leading to the adoption of automobile selling and buying online. These services are structured in a way that makes it independent, objective, unbiased, comprehensive, and scientific.



1. Pricing as a Service (PAAS)  Pricing as a service is powered by OBV (Orange Book Value) a data science driven algorithmic pricing engine, to forecast the right fair-market value of any used automobile. Orange book value has emerged in the last 8 years as a de facto standard for used vehicle pricing. OBV is based on 21st century data science and machine learning. Since its launch, OBV has seen 527Mn+ pricing queries for more than 80K+ products and 342K+ auto dealers use it across India.



2. Inspection as a Service (IAAS)  Inspection as a service is powered by Eco is a mobile app, IoT and AI driven auto inspection service. Droom has more than 16K certifies technicians in 1000 cities who perform auto inspection based on Drooms propriety inspection methodology along with IoT, AI and central QC system.



3. History as a Service (HAAS)  History as a service is powered by Drooms history services, India's largest national repository with more than 200 million of the total 220 million registered vehicles in India. The report provides in-depth details about a vehicle's background, more than 60 lakh vehicles real-time updated data covering up to 50 different historical records in 10 seconds. HAAS helps enterprises and SMEs to know vehicles historical records during buying, selling, procuring of vehicles, or before loan, insurance, policy approvals.



Over the years Droom built these outstanding and top-notch services backed by technology and data science which started gaining inbound interest from OEMs and fleets, insurance and money lenders who were interested in using these services in their own enterprise setting. Understanding the value these services provide to the industry, Droom is now offering these services to large enterprises and SMEs as subscription, aiming to take the stress out from managing all things around their automobile business helping them to focus on seamless growth and making their business as transparent, seamless, comfortable, and trusting as possible.



Launching the Droom Cloud Services, Sandeep Aggarwal, Founder & CEO, Droom said, Droom is the only pure-play ecommerce company with the most suite of propriety tech and data driven ecosystem of services. Introducing Droom Cloud Services, we are taking our core expertise to the automobile businesses for them to use and benefit from our advanced tools and services. We are sure that businesses will grow, scale, and stand to gain from them. He also added, On our 9th anniversary Droom Cloud Services has truly emerged as a AWS moment for us.



Droom has launched these services to solve the demand and supply problems by disrupting the 140-year-old traditional automobile retailing. Droom is providing enterprises and SMEs a platform where they can leverage and benefit from Drooms core expertise. With more than 200 Mn visitors yearly, Droom is one of the first companies to offer such extensive propositions like vast selection, low prices, inspected and certified vehicles, and more.



About Droom



Droom offers a 21st-century E-Commerce experience for automobiles. Droom offers Indias largest selection of automobiles with over 1.4 million vehicles listed online in 1,174 cities  both used & new, cars & 2-wheelers, and other vehicles too. For buyers, Droom offers Indias finest automobile buying experience online with trust, selection, low price, and convenience second to none. Droom is the market leader in the automobile e-commerce segment and since its inception, Droom has sold over 566K vehicles and served over 2.5 million happy customers with its products and services. Droom is among the most trusted consumer internet brands in India often recognized for its innovative approach and technology and is backed by marquee global investors including Lightbox, Digital Garage, Toyota Group, Recruit, Beenext, Beenos, 57 Stars and many multibillion-dollar family offices in SE Asia and Hong Kong.



Droom was founded by Sandeep Aggarwal, the only tech-entrepreneur in India who has funded two Unicorns back-to-back (ShopClues and Droom) and is a Singapore Holding Company with its subsidiaries in India and the United States. The company is headquartered in Gurugram, India.



For more information, please visit:



Twitter: https://twitter.com/letsdroom



Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letsdroom



Blog: http://blog.droom.in/



LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/droom-in



Visit droom.in or download the Android & iOS apps and get that "feeling nayi waali"!

(Disclaimer: The above content is a press release and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). PTI PWR

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BANGALORE, India and DELAWARE CITY, Del., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Testsigma, a fast-growing open-source, low-code test automation platform, has announced the addition of API testing to its existing suite of test automation capabilities. With this latest addition, QA engineering teams can now use Testsigma's unified low-code platform to automate and test APIs along with web, mobile, and desktop applications.



API Testing on Testsigma allows QA teams to easily create and verify API tests in real-time, without requiring any coding expertise. With the built-in data-driven testing capabilities, users can seamlessly add verifications to a variety of test scenarios without using multiple test scripts. Users can also integrate API and GUI tests for comprehensive end-to-end testing and improved test coverage.

"Letting our customers automate and test APIs is a critical step towards our vision of building the Operating System for QA. Software quality should not be a function of coding expertise, but of curiosity and an empathetic understanding of user behavior. We truly believe Testsigma is ushering a new way of testing using natural language to deploy quality software, and we are already seeing thousands of empowered QA teams help deploy software 5 times faster with increased confidence," said Rukmangada Kandyala, CEO and Founder of Testsigma.



Unlike traditional test automation platforms that rely on extensive expertise in coding and knowledge of test frameworks, Testsigma uses natural language processing that lets QA teams write test cases in plain English. This enables QA teams to get started with test automation 5X faster, compared to using traditional test automation frameworks and solutions.



Testsigma has been enhancing the platform over the last year, and this includes testing desktop apps, support to test flutter apps and integration with software in the DevOps ecosystem like Azure DevOps, Xray, Codeship CI etc.



About Testsigma



Testsigma is an open source, low-code test automation platform for QA teams looking to automate tests without extensive coding expertise. Using Testsigma, software testers can create automated tests 5X faster using plain English statements and automate web, desktop, mobile apps, API tests, UI, and database tests using a single platform.



Hundreds of leading QA teams across the world use Testsigma's low-code test automation platform to release quality software at speed and scale. Some notable customers of Testsigma include HP Enterprise, Samsung, Bosch, Honeywell, and American Psychological Association. Testsigma is backed by leading investors like Accel and Strive.



Media contact

media@testsigma.com



Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mwoutDiqwjg

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2056825/Testsigma_Logo.jpg



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By M. Sriram and Tanvi Mehta

MUMBAI (Reuters) -About 300 people queued at Apple's store in Mumbai on Tuesday, as fans took selfies with Chief Executive Tim Cook, who inaugurated the first retail store run by the tech giant in India, underscoring the importance of its market.

"The energy, creativity, and passion in Mumbai is incredible!" Cook, who is making his first visit to India in seven years, said on Twitter. "We are so excited to open ... our first store in India."

People flocked to the store from across India, hoping to be among the first to enter, in an opening event featuring local music and folk dancers.

Some queued outside from the previous night to get their hands on Apple products, even though they are available online in India.

"The fanboy inside me would not listen," Purav Mehta, 30, told Reuters, as he waited to get Cook's signature on his boxed mint-condition iPod Touch, which he had bought on eBay, as well as waiting to buy the Apple Watch Ultra.

Many visitors wore T-shirts in the style favoured by co-founder Steve Jobs, had their hair cut in the shape of an Apple logo and one fan even brought a version of the first Apple computer launched in 1984.

"The vibe here is just different," said 23-year old Aan Shah, who travelled from the western industrial city of Ahmedabad for the launch in India's commercial capital.

"It's not like buying from some normal store. There's just no comparison. It's so exciting."

His love for Apple took him to store openings as a young student in New York and Boston, where he once got a chance to meet Cook, he said.

Apple has previously faced hurdles in opening physical retail stores in the South Asian nation, but its products have been available on e-commerce websites, while its online store opened in 2020.

The new store opens as Indian consumers increasingly look to upgrade their smartphones to glitzier models, with richer feature sets, from budget devices typically costing less than $120.

Story continues

Still, Apple's pricey phones are affordable for only a few in India, where it accounts for just a 3% share of the market.

The new store, located in the Reliance-owned Jio World Drive mall, opened for bloggers and tech analysts at a private event on Monday, while many Indian film and television celebrities were seen meeting Cook that night.

A second store in Delhi, the capital, is set to open on Thursday. Cook is set to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the deputy IT minister later this week, sources told Reuters.

As Apple pushes to make India a bigger manufacturing base, some of its products, including iPhones, are being assembled in the country by Taiwanese contract electronics manufacturers Foxconn and Wistron Corp.

It also plans to assemble iPads and AirPods in India.

(Reporting by M.Sriram and Tanvi Mehta; Additional reporting by Francis Mascarenhas; Editing by Clarence Fernandez)
New Delhi, Apr 18 (PTI) A Delhi-Srinagar SpiceJet flight returned to the IGI airport here on Tuesday due to a false warning in the cockpit, the airline said on Tuesday.

"On April 18, SpiceJet B737 aircraft operating flight SG-8373 (Delhi-Srinagar) returned back to Delhi as the AFT cargo fire light illuminated in the cockpit," the airline said in a statement.

The light later extinguished upon actions taken by the captain, SpiceJet said and added that before landing, all operational parameters were observed to be normal.

"The light later extinguished upon actions taken by the captain. Subsequently, upon opening of AFT cargo no sign of fire or smoke was found and based on initial assessment, the warning was observed to be false," the statement added.

The aircraft landed safely and passengers were deplaned normally, it added.

A source, however, said that a full emergency was declared for SpiceJet flight to Srinagar from Delhi, which had 140 passengers on board.

"Full emergency was declared at 10:40 am on Tuesday for SpiceJet's Delhi-Srinagar flight SG 8373. The flight landed back at IGI airport safely," the source said.

The aircraft has been parked, he added.
Mumbai, Apr 18 (PTI) Benchmark equity indices Sensex and Nifty closed lower for a second day on Tuesday as investors remained cautious amid disappointing earnings from IT majors TCS and Infosys.

Fall in index major Reliance Industries, HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank and fresh foreign fund outflows also dented sentiment.

Reversing its early gains, the 30-share BSE Sensex fell 183.74 points or 0.31 per cent to settle at 59,727.01. During the day, it declined 331.45 points or 0.55 per cent to a low of 59,579.30.

The broader NSE Nifty dipped 46.70 points or 0.26 per cent to end at 17,660.15.

Among the Sensex firms, Power Grid, UltraTech Cement, Titan, Reliance Industries, Bajaj Finance, Mahindra & Mahindra, ICICI Bank, Tata Consultancy Services, Tech Mahindra, ITC and HDFC Bank were the major laggards.

HCL Technologies, IndusInd Bank, Wipro, Nestle, Maruti, Larsen & Toubro and Asian Paints were among the gainers.

In Asian markets, Seoul and Hong Kong ended lower, while Japan Shanghai settled with gains.

European markets were trading with gains during the afternoon trade. The US markets had ended in the positive territory on Monday.

The Sensex had tanked 520.25 points or 0.86 per cent to settle at 59,910.75 on Monday. The Nifty fell 121.15 points or 0.68 per cent to finish at 17,706.85.

Meanwhile, global oil benchmark Brent crude dipped 0.12 per cent to USD 84.66 per barrel.

Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) offloaded equities worth Rs 533.20 crore on Monday, according to exchange data.
Melbourne, Apr 18 (PTI) At least five Australian universities have placed bans or restrictions on students from some Indian states, amidst a surge in fraudulent applications from South Asia seeking to work  not study  in this country, according to a media report.

Australia is on track for its biggest-ever annual intake of Indian students, topping 2019s high watermark of 75,000.

But the current surge has prompted concerns from lawmakers and the education sector about the integrity of Australias immigration system and the long-term impact on the nations lucrative international education market, The Sydney Morning Herald newspaper reported on Tuesday.

The volume of students arriving has come back a lot stronger than anyone was expecting, said Jon Chew from global education firm Navitas.

We knew there would be a lot of pent-up demand, but there has also been a surge in non-genuine students, Chew was quoted as saying.

With many applications deemed by universities not to meet Australian visa requirements that they are a genuine temporary entrant coming solely for education, universities are putting restrictions in place to pre-empt their risk rating being downgraded, the report said.

An investigation by The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald newspapers has obtained emails from within Victoria University, Edith Cowan University, the University of Wollongong, Torrens University, and agents working for Southern Cross University that show the crackdown on applications from Indian students.

Those universities that have restricted access to some Indian states are concerned Home Affairs will reduce their ability to fast-track student visas because of the number of applicants who are actually seeking to work  not study  in Australia.

Perths Edith Cowan University in February placed an outright ban on applicants from the Indian states of Punjab and Haryana, then in March, Victoria University increased restrictions on student applications from eight Indian states, including Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Gujarat.

These restrictions came just days after Prime Minister Anthony Albanese visited India, in part to celebrate Australias education links and announce a new agreement with Australias universities and colleges that would, he said, herald the most comprehensive and ambitious arrangement agreed to by India with any country.

Crucially, the agreement included a mutual recognition of qualifications between Australia and India, which will make travelling to either country for university study easier.

The University of Wollongong in March also ratcheted up conditions on its genuine temporary entrant test on students from India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Lebanon, Mongolia, Nigeria and other countries deemed a risk (of students not being a genuine temporary entrant) by the Department of Home Affairs.

A spokeswoman for Adelaides Torrens University said it too was now looking carefully at each area where our applications come from after the university told The Times Higher Education in March that it was considering only very strong applications from Gujarat, Haryana and Punjab, the report added.
Bengaluru, Apr 18 (PTI) The Karnataka High Court has quashed the order of the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) that had passed an order allowing the operations of windmills on forest land in the state to a Mumbai-based company.

The HC said the tribunal did not have jurisdiction over the matter of setting aside a government order.

"The company could not have knocked at the doors of the Tribunal as it completely falls beyond the purview of the Code, being in the realm of public law, since the State has exercised its jurisdiction in drawing up the proceedings and directing forest clearances to be submitted by the corporate debtor, the petitioner, in exercise of powers conferred under the Statute. Therefore, they are in the realm of public law," Justice M Nagaprasanna said in his judgment.

The tribunal had no jurisdiction to direct functioning/continuing of the windmill without the forest clearance, merely because the state had granted such permission at an earlier point in time, the court stated.

The Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and other senior officers of the Forest Department had approached the HC against the NCLT, Ahmedabad Division Bench's order in favour of Wind World (India), a Mumbai-based company.

The company had been granted a lease of 221.80 hectares of forest land for a period of 15 years in 2003. It applied for renewal of lease in 2020 which was pending. In the meantime, the company sought permission to start a windmill and the permission was given subject to the clearance of the Forest Department.

Since 2018, the company was before the tribunal for insolvency proceedings and the permissions were granted during this period.

The state government suspended operations of the windmill in May 2022 as the forest clearances were not placed before it. The company did not challenge these orders but, however, approached the tribunal.

The NCLT ordered the state government to permit functioning of the windmill "by holding that it was essential to resolve insolvency of the corporate debtor i.e., the Company."

The Forest Department approached the HC stating that the tribunal could not have acted as a constitutional court to suspend the order or the proceedings of the state government and permit functioning of the windmill.

"All these are powers vested in the constitutional courts and not on the Tribunal," the department said in the HC.

Allowing the Forest Department's petition and quashing the tribunal's order, the HC said: "None of the contentions of the learned senior counsel for the company would merit acceptance. It is open to the company to produce all the necessary clearances as is sought by the state if the company wants to continue with the operations."
Shimla, April 18 (PTI) The Himachal Pradesh government is planning to legalise cannabis (hemp) cultivation, as Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has issued directions to form a panel to explore the possibility of its legal cultivation.

The legal cultivation of cannabis would play a significant role in generating revenue for the state besides proving beneficial for the patients due to its medicinal properties and can be used for industrial purposes as well, a statement issued here on Tuesday said.

Under the NDPS Act, states are empowered to permit, by general or special order, the cultivation of hemp, only for obtaining fibre or seeds or for horticultural and medicinal purposes.

The cultivation of cannabis for industrial purposes, such as making industrial hemp or for horticultural use, is legal in India. The National Policy on Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances recognises cannabis as a source of biomass, fibre and high-value oil, the statement said.

The government was cautious about the potential increase in drug use and had formed a five-member committee of MLAs, the Chief Minister said, adding that the committee will conduct a thorough study of every aspect related to cannabis cultivation in the state.

The committee will visit areas where illegal cultivation of cannabis takes place and submit a report in a month, and the government would take a decision on the basis of the report submitted by it, the chief minister said.

Sukhu has categorically stated that the state government will consider enacting a law after getting complete information on the use of cannabis leaves and seeds.

The central government has also given legal status to the cultivation of cannabis in some districts of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. Apart from this, cannabis is also being cultivated in Uttarakhand for industrial use. Under the NDPS Act, the state has been given the right to cultivate cannabis and transport it.

The state government would consider all aspects, including regulatory measures, and will study other states that have legalised it before taking a final call.

Cannabis cultivation has been kept under the legal purview in several states. The neighbouring state of Uttarakhand has become the first state in the country to legalise cannabis cultivation in 2017, while controlled cultivation of cannabis is also being done in some districts of Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.

It will be pertinent to mention here that Parliament defined cannabis in the NDPS Act in the year 1985, under which a complete ban has been imposed on extracting the resin and flowers from the cannabis plant.

But this law determines the method and extent of cultivation of cannabis for medicinal and scientific purposes. Section 10 (a) (iii) of the Act empowers the states to make rules regarding the cultivation of any cannabis plant, production, possession, transport, consumption, use and purchase and sale, and consumption of cannabis (except charas).
New Delhi, Apr 18 (PTI) With the release of "Ponniyin Selvan II", all the pieces of Mani Ratnam's magnum opus will come together, said acclaimed actor Vikram on Tuesday.

The actor, who plays Aditha Karikalan in the pan-India film, said the team didn't think the first part of the historical fiction drama, based on Kalki Krishnamurthy's 1955 Tamil novel of the same name, will break "all records in south". What they knew was that it would be received well as it was true to the Tamil culture.

"We are very confident (about part two). The (part one of the) film was loved in Tamil because it was very true to what was written all those years ago. And they loved that. So there was no misinterpretation. We didn't change anything. The second part that we are doing now, there are certain endings that we are leaving open," Vikram told reporters here.

The two-part "Ponniyin Selvan" chronicles the story of the early days of Arulmozhivarman (Jayam Ravi), one of the most powerful kings in the south, who went on to become the great Chola emperor Rajaraja Chola I.

"Ponniyin Selvan I" was praised for its aesthetic value and layered characters and was reported as the highest-grossing Tamil film of 2022.

Vikram said the whole cast would be ready to reprise their roles if Ratnam ever makes a third part.

"If Mani sir asks us to come back for 'Ponniyin Selvan 3', we'll all be there," he added.

The actor also spoke about why the movie perhaps did better in the south than in the Hindi-speaking belt.

"Whenever we are releasing the film we never go with 'Will this work?' You think it's going to work, no matter how bad the film is from anybody's point of view. The kind of response we got for part one, we weren't surprised. We didn't think that it would break all records in south or Tamil Nadu, especially, but we knew it was going to do well... Second part is what everybody would want to see," Vikram added.

The actor was speaking at a press conference ahead of the film's release on April 28. He was accompanied by co-stars Ravi, Karthi, Trisha Krishnan, Aishwarya Lekshmi and Sobhita Dhulipala.

Karthi, who plays Vallavaraiyan Vandiyadevan in the film franchise, also elaborated on his recent comments during the film's promotions where he said audiences in the north found "Ponniyin Selvan I" difficult to follow.

"It's only from the feedback I received from my friends here. And then I had to explain the story to them and sent them the WhatsApp forwards of the simple gist of the story. It was just a paragraph and after that they were able to follow and it became easier," said the actor.

The second part of "Ponniyin Selvan" offers a "recap" of the first installment to the viewers which will make it "easier to follow" the story, he added.

"The faces are also familiar, so you don't have to remember the names. You know who's where and what they are doing. 'PS II' is going to be much much easier to follow. 'PS I' has done enough to set up 'PS 2' to go bigger," Karthi said.

The confusion, Vikram said, was perhaps to do with names more than anything else. Even he had a tough time remembering the names of the characters during the dubbing process.

"Like I couldn't get some of the names I was saying right. Dubbing used to be a torture for me. I couldn't get the names, so I could imagine... they all sound alike... It must be like Chinese for you.

"Most of you are not familiar with us on the Hindi screen, but like I said, after watching the first part there shouldn't be any confusion. There's a recap and Amazon (Prime Video - where the first part is streaming) can always help you," he added.

Ravi said playing the title role was a "big responsibility".

"Down south, this is an epitome of a character. They look at him as God, the ruler of the rulers, that's why Rajaraja means 'king of kings'. Mani sir called me and said 'I don't worry about other characters...' what he meant was 'I can handle every other character, but (in) this you have to bring something. You go and live as Rajaraja Chola for six months," he added.

After a lot of soul searching, the actor said, he found there were some similarities between him and the real Ponniyin Selvan.

"One day, I came and he asked 'Did you come up with something?' I said 'Sir, Ponniyin Selvan had a brother and a sister. I too have a brother and a sister. I don't think in the thousand odd years the emotion of a brother to a sister has changed. Mother's love for a son never changed. Humanity has taken the core of emotions intact all through the years, so I just had to replicate them properly," said Ravi.

While the men fight all the wars in the "Ponniyin Selvan" films, it is the women who run the show in the palace trying to keep the kingdom intact.

Trisha said the second chapter of the franchise will see women rule in all their glory.

"Part one was an introduction of every character. Part two is when the story actually begins. If you think the women were very powerful and empowered in part one, it will be a notch above in part two," the actor, who plays Kundavai, said.

Through "Ponniyin Selvan", Sobhita said the team got an opportunity to champion female characters. The films mark her foray into Tamil cinema.

"We had the chance to show the strength and grit of a woman under pressure with grace, which happens a lot in real life," the actor, who plays Vaanathi, said.

During the promotions, the stars also talked about losing the verified blue ticks on Twitter. Ravi and Trisha changed their names to their characters Arunmozhi Varman and Kundavai on the microblogging site, following which they lost their verification mark.

"We were all supposed to change our names. Ravi and I, like over-enthusiastic people, did it first and lost the blue tick. We dont know the reason behind it but the team is working on reviving it...

"They are refusing to let us purchase it because we changed our names. We tried doing that as well this morning. It says suspicious activity because we changed our names," Trisha said.

"Hum abhi humare character verification mein hain. Baad mein name verification pe aayenge. (We are working on our character verification, we will come to name verification later)" Ravi quipped.

Also starring Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Prakash Raj, and Jayaram, "Ponniyin Selvan II" will be released worldwide in Tamil along with the dubbed versions in Hindi, Kannada, Telugu and Malayalam.
Mumbai, Apr 18 (PTI) Actor Ileana D'Cruz on Tuesday announced that she will soon welcome her first child.

The actor shared the news in an Instagram post.

"Coming soon. Can't wait to meet you my little darling," Ileana wrote alongside two photographs-- a baby romper with "And so the adventure begins" printed on it and a "Mama" pendant.

Many of her industry friends and colleagues congratulated the actor on the post.

Ileana's mother Samira D'Cruz commented, "Welcome soon to the world my new grand baby can't wait."

"Ahhh congratulations my love this is amazing news," Shibani Dandekar wrote.

Nisha Aggarwal commented, "So beautiful. Congratulations."

Nargis Fakhri posted love-struck and clapping hands emoji.

On the work front, Ileana recently featured in a music video of the song "Sab Gazab", sung by Goldkartz and Badshah. Her last movie outing was Abhishek Bachchan-led "The Red Bull".
Mumbai, Apr 18 (PTI) Acclaimed filmmaker Kanu Behl is returning to the Directors' Fortnight section of the 2023 Cannes Film Festival, this time with his upcoming Hindi feature film "Agra".

Produced by Saregama India Ltd, UFO Production, and O28 Films, the movie will have its world premiere at Directors' Fortnight, an independent section of the prestigious film gala.

Written by Behl and Atika Chohan, "Agra" is an exploration of sexual dynamics within a family and the deep dystopian fractures created in a modern India fast shrinking into pigeon-holed spaces.

The feature film -- an India-France co-production -- is fronted by the debutant Mohit Agarwal, "Aashiqui" star Rahul Roy, "Lion" actor Priyanka Bose, Ruhani Sharma, along with Vibha Chibber, Sonal Jha and Aanchal Goswami in pivotal roles.

Behl said he is overjoyed that "Agra" is beginning its journey at Director's Fortnight.

"'Agra' has been a deeply personal and difficult exploration for me, a deep dive into the inner entrails of desire and male sexual repression, and an attempt to understand the hoodoo... I hope it opens a conversation around sexuality and the homes we choose to live in, as it reaches a wider audience," the writer-director said in a statement.

"The world premiere of 'Agra' at the Directors' Fortnight is a huge honour for us. We often credit ourselves as a studio that is into fearless filmmaking and Agra is a perfect example. Kanu Behl had deep faith in the subject and we are glad we made this film with him. I look forward to seeing how the audience reacts to the film at Cannes," added Siddharth Anand Kumar  Sr. VP of Films & Event at Saregama India Ltd.

William Jehannin of UFO Production termed the creation of "Agra" an "incredible adventure".

"I feel deeply honoured to have collaborated with an Indian artist like Kanu Behl for the creation of his film, which talks about a subject both intensely local and also global," Jehannin said.

The film was developed at 'PJLF Three Rivers' residency programme in Italy with the prestigious 'Cinema du Monde' film fund backing it. It was also part of the FBR section of the Viewing Room at NFDC's Film Bazaar 2022.

"Agra" is Behl's second film to have its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival after his debut film "Titli", which premiered in the 2014 Cannes Un Certain Regard section.

The 76th edition of the Cannes Film Festival will be held from May 16 to May 27.
London, Apr 18 (PTI) A number of Indian diaspora organisations in the UK have issued letters objecting to the creation of a new cross-party parliamentary group for British Gujaratis, warning that the move could be divisive.

The British Gujaratis All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) was registered as a new body with the stated purpose to ensure that the economic, health, social and cultural needs of the British Gujarati community are reflected in Parliament, with a particular emphasis, on health, education, and elderly care".

PGs, which have no official status within the British Parliament, are informal cross-party groups formed by members of Parliament (MPs) and House of Lords peers who share a common interest in a particular policy area, region or country.

"We see this move as divisive and against the interests of the British Indian community, reads a letter from the Friends of India Society International (FISI) UK issued last week to the office-bearers of the new group.

We fail to see any concrete reasons for its creation as the concerns raised are not separate from those of the British Indian community and hence the same can be addressed through APPG for British Hindus and APPG for India, it notes.

It warns that the move to create the new group is an attack on the unity of the British Indian community and also on India.

"Such disharmonious and mala-fide attempts creating strife within the wider Hindu/Indian community needs to be discouraged, it adds.

Similar sentiments have been expressed in a series of letters issued by groups such as the Hindu Forum of Britain (HFB), British Sikh Association and the National Association of Patidar Samaj  which represents the British Gujarati community.

"Any organisation that divides a community instead of uniting it has already defeated the object, said Lord Rami Ranger, Chair of the British Sikh Association.

"There are APPGs of Hindus and India, unless of course we will have an APPG on Brahmins and Lohanas too, he questioned.

"From our assessment, it has become clear that the vast majority of Hindu/ Gujarati/Indian organisations have not been consulted. Had this basic first step taken place then it would have become abundantly clear that the said APPG Gujarati commanded no confidence and is rejected by Gujaratis and the Indian diaspora in general, notes a letter issued by HFB President Trupti Patel.

The new British Gujaratis APPG, which is to be formally launched in the Houses of Parliament complex in London next week, is made up of a group of six cross-party MPs and peers including Opposition Labours Navendu Mishra and Virendra Sharma; Bob Blackman and Shailesh Vara from the Tories; and Lord Navnit Dholakia from the Liberal Democrats.

Labour MP Gareth Thomas, who represents the north-west London constituency of Harrow West with a strong Gujarati diaspora presence, is the chair of the group. He claims that there has been considerable interest and support for the British Gujaratis APPG so far and that he would reach out to the groups with concerns to address their questions.

There are an estimated 800,000 British Gujaratis; mostly concentrated in metropolitan areas like Greater London, Midlands, Lancashire & Yorkshire, he tweeted last month, announcing the creation of the new APPG.

I hope the APPG will be able to celebrate the vision and ambition of British Gujaratis and address some of the remaining challenges they face in for example healthcare and in access to good quality care of the elderly. I hope too that the APPG will be able to engage on issues in education, well-being, bilateral trade with the State of Gujarat and economic development here in the UK, he said.
Ormskirk (England), Apr 18 (The Conversation) Plants look so different from animals, that its easy for many people to think of them as alien and separate from us. Most people appreciate how pretty flowers and trees look and know photosynthesis is essential to life. But our mental and physical connection to plantlife runs deeper than you might expect.

The scientific evidence that plants play a fundamental role in shaping our mental state and decreasing the risk of mental and physical illnesses is mounting.

They can reduce depression, anxiety and mood disorder symptoms in humans by reducing levels of the stress hormone cortisol which can lower heart rate and promote a feelgood state of mind.

Several studies have shown horticulture therapy may help some people manage their PTSD symptoms and improve their quality of life once more.

They can even increase your creativity through stimulating the brain with their vibrant, natural colours.



A growing sense of wellbeing

Even the little potplant on your desk may have a more potent effect on you than you might realise. The houseplants you bought to brighten up your home or workplace may actually be helping you to think more clearly. Studies have shown that surrounding yourself by plants could improve your concentration by up to 20% and increase your ability to recall information by 15-20%. Plants do this by reducing CO concentration and improving air quality.

According to UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidelines, CO concentration should not exceed 1,000 parts per million (ppm) in offices, as at this level it can causes headaches, fatigue and dizziness.

It can also lead to poorer decision-making. Research has shown that in some cases house plants can decrease carbon dioxide concentration from 2,000ppm to about 480ppm in less than one hour indoors.

Popular house plants that efficiently remove carbon dioxide include the blue star fern (Phlebodium aureum), weeping figs (Ficus benjamina), spider plants (Chlorophytum comosum) and Anthurium species (such as the flamingo flower).

Some plants, of course, can also alter our body chemistry  just think of the many species used as medicinal or recreational drugs. It is ironic that some people think of plants as little more than nice-looking greens when humans have been using them to explore different states of consciousness, relieve pain and to relax for tens of thousands of years.



Horti-culture



Plants have been central to human society from our very beginning, but the way we use and connect with plants has changed over generations and throughout civilisations. From being reliant on plants for food and medicine during the palaeolithic era (up to 11,000 years ago), modern society has in many ways lost its appreciation and awareness of plants.

The World Bank has estimated that by the year 2050, seven out of ten people will be living in cities and access to plants in their natural environment will become more challenging. We have become more disconnected from nature. But despite all the options for comfort and leisure 21st century technology offers us, we cant quite seem to stay away.

Humans have biophilia, which means we are wired to seek connection with nature and plants. Plants increase happiness hormones such as endorphin in humans. They are not only intertwined with the fate of the human species but deeply rooted in who we are as individuals. The shape, colour, smell, feel and taste of plants can uplift us when we interact with them in the moment and blossom in our memories.

From the velvety feel of flower petals against your fingertips, to the delicious scent of essential oils they release to attract pollinators, to the irresistibly mellow taste of chocolate, plants have been tantalising our senses throughout human history.

We all have different memories and experiences that make us connect with plants. For example, the plant that makes me most happy and invokes in me a deep feeling of love is Crocus sativus, as I named my first daughter after it (Saffron).

During the COVID pandemic plant sales in Britain increased by over 30%, as people rediscovered the importance of plants for their mental wellbeing. In 2021 the UK spent over 7.6 billion on plants, which is 1-2 billion higher compared to the two previous years.

Plants arent are a luxury. They are part of who we are. It is not surprising to find that the word plant translates in many native languages to those who take care of us. (The Conversation) AMS
Islamabad, Apr 18 (PTI) Pakistans head of the diplomatic mission in Kabul returned to the Afghan capital on Monday, more than four months after he survived an assassination attempt, according to a media report.

Foreign Office Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch confirmed that Ubaidur Rehman Nizamani, the Pakistani Charge d'Affaires, returned to Kabul, however, she did not provide further details, The Express Tribune newspaper reported on Monday.

Nizamani's return followed a phone call between Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and acting Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. The development came ahead of a planned visit of Muttaqi to Islamabad next month.

Quoting sources, the report said the decision to send back the Pakistani envoy was made during the call.

Nizamani was on a routine walk inside the sprawling embassy compound in Kabul on December 2 when shooters opened fire on him from a nearby multi-storey building.

He escaped unhurt, but his Pakistani security guard was hit in the legs by bullets.

Pakistan immediately evacuated the senior diplomat and demanded the Taliban enhance the security of its embassy.

However, it was not clear at the time that it would take over four months for Pakistan to send back its envoy to Kabul.

The delay was attributed to a lack of security as well as friction between the two sides on a range of issues particularly the continued attacks by the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) terror group.

Sources said that Bilawal extended the formal invitation to his Afghan counterpart during the telephone conversation.

Though no official confirmation was available, sources said that Muttaqi is expected to travel to Islamabad in the first week of May.

This would be his second visit to Islamabad and first, since the coalition government replaced former prime minister Imran Khan in April last year, the report said.

Pakistan has been pressing for decisive action against the TTP and its affiliates. The Afghan Taliban, despite promises and efforts to mediate a deal between the two sides, have failed to address Pakistans concerns.

The interim government in Kabul has come under renewed Pakistan pressure ever since the government and the establishment have come to the conclusion that they would no longer seek peace talks with the TTP.

A high-powered delegation led by Defence Minister Khawaja Asif along with the DG ISI visited Kabul in February to issue the Afghan Taliban a stern warning to tackle the TTP.

The Afghan intelligence officials then travelled to Islamabad for follow-up discussions.

The upcoming visit by the acting Afghan Foreign Minister would be seen as crucial as this would indicate if the two sides can sort out the security challenge without further hiccups, according to the Express Tribune report.
Islamabad, Apr 18 (PTI) The heads of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and the Military Intelligence (MI) met Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial and two other top judges for more than three hours and briefed them on the security issues facing Pakistan, amidst a tussle between the government and the apex court over holding snap elections in the politically crucial Punjab province.

The meeting between the spy chiefs of Pakistan and the top judges took place on Monday in the chamber of Chief Justice Bandial, the Express Tribune newspaper reported on Tuesday.

The two top spymasters ISI chief Lt Gen Nadeem Anjum and MI Chief Major General Wajid Aziz briefed Chief Justice Bandial on the security issues confronting the country, it said.

A three-judge bench -- led by the chief justice and comprising Justice Munib Akhtar and Justice Ijazul Ahsan -- on April 4 declared as unconstitutional the Election Commission of Pakistans (ECP) decision to postpone the election for the Punjab Assembly and ordered it to hold polls in the province on May 14.

On March 22, the ECP delayed the provincial assembly election in the province by more than five months, citing a deteriorating security situation in the cash-starved country.

The same bench on April 14 ordered the State Bank of Pakistan to release Rs 21 billion to the ECP for holding elections in Punjab and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province and send an appropriate communication to this effect to the finance ministry by April 17.

At an earlier hearing, Defence Secretary, Former Lt Gen Hamood Uz Zaman, requested the bench to get an in-camera briefing on security issues. But the bench had asked him to first submit a classified report.

It seems that these officials directly shared with the judges the reasons why the Army troops could not be made available for security duty on May 14, a lawyer told the paper.

April 17 was the last date to inform the ECP about a security plan as per the direction of the apex court.

It is not clear whether the Supreme Court expressed satisfaction with the briefing. However, the briefing will have far-reaching implications if the judges get convinced that the security situation in the country does not allow the deployment of troops to ensure security during the poll in Punjab.

Holding provincial elections has taken centre stage in Pakistani politics as former Prime Minister Imran Khan has been pushing for snap elections in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces.

PTI Chairman Khan has been demanding early national elections since his ouster in April last year after he lost a confidence vote in Parliament.

The current term of the National Assembly will complete its five-year term in August this year. According to the Constitution, elections shall be held within 90 days after the dissolution of the lower house. This means that the election must be held by mid-October. The last general election was held in July 2018.

The PTI dissolved the Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa assemblies on January 14 and 18, respectively, in a bid to force the ruling coalition to hold early general elections.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif convened a meeting of his coalition partners on Tuesday to discuss the current political situation to take his allies into confidence about the cases in the Supreme Court about polls and the powers of the chief justice.
Khartoum (Sudan), Apr 18 (AP) A US Embassy convoy came under fire in Sudan, Washington's top diplomat said Tuesday as he stepped up efforts for a cease-fire between the country's two top generals.

Still, forces of the two rivals pounded each other for a fourth day with heavy weapons in the capital of Khartoum.

The attack on the convoy in Khartoum, along with an assault on the EU envoy's residence and the shelling of the Norwegian ambassador's home, signalled a further descent into chaos in the fighting.

Millions of Sudanese in the capital and in other major cities have been hiding in their homes, caught in the crossfire as the two forces battle for control, with each general so far insisting he will crush the other.

The convoy of clearly marked US Embassy vehicles was attacked Monday, and preliminary reports link the assailants to the Rapid Support Forces, the paramilitary group battling Sudan's military, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters. Everyone in the convoy was safe, he said.

More than 185 people have been killed and more than 1,800 wounded since fighting began Saturday, according to UN figures, which did not include a breakdown of civilians and combatants.

The Sudan Doctors' Syndicate said Tuesday that at least 144 civilians were killed and more than 1,400 were wounded.

The overall death toll could be much higher because clashes in Khartoum have prevented the removal of bodies in some areas.

The State Department said late Monday that Blinken spoke by phone separately with the two rival generals  armed forces chief Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan and RSF leader Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo.

I made very clear that any attacks or threats or dangers posed to our diplomats were totally unacceptable, Blinken told reporters at the Group of Seven wealthy nations meeting in Japan on Tuesday,

He appealed for an immediate 24-hour cease-fire, as a foundation for a longer truce and a return to negotiations.

Dagalo said in a series of tweets Tuesday that he had approved a 24-hour humanitarian truce after speaking to Blinken.

The military said in a statement that it was not aware of any coordination with mediators on a truce and that more troops would join the battle. The fighting, it said, entered the decisive phase, and that the coming hours would see a crushing defeat of the RSF.

More tanks and armoured vehicles belonging to the military rolled into Khartoum early Tuesday, heading towards the military's headquarters and the Republican Palace, the seat of power, residents said. During the night, fighter jets swooped overhead and anti-aircraft fire lit up the skies.

Fighting resumed early Tuesday around each side's main bases and at strategic government buildings  all of which are in residential areas. Video from the Arab TV network Al-Arabiya showed a large explosion near the main military headquarters in central Khartoum that raised a giant cloud of smoke and dust.

Satellite images from Maxar Technologies taken Monday showed damage across Khartoum, including to security service buildings. Tanks stood guard at a bridge over the White Nile River and other locations in the Sudanese capital.

Satellite images from Planet Labs PBC, also taken Monday, showed some 20 damaged civilian and military aircraft at Khartoum International Airport, which has a military section.

Some had been completely destroyed, with one still belching smoke. At the El Obeid and Merowe air bases, north and south of Khartoum, several fighter jets were among the destroyed aircraft.

The violence has raised the spectre of civil war just as the Sudanese were trying to revive the drive for a democratic, civilian government after decades of military rule.

Each side already has tens of thousands of troops distributed around the districts of Khartoum and the city of Omdurman on the opposite bank of the Nile River. That has brought the fighting and chaos  with gunbattles, artillery barrages and airstrikes  to the doorsteps of the cities' terrified residents.

Residents have reported looting of shops and homes by fighters. One resident near Khartoum's Arabic Market area, said he saw a group of armed men in RSF uniform smashing doors of shops in the area and stealing goods including mobile phones.

The paramilitary force denied the accusations and claimed that some people disguised as RSF troops and stormed residential houses.

The assaults on diplomats' homes were a further sign of a conflict running out of control.

The European Union's foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell tweeted Monday that the EU ambassador to Sudan was assaulted in his own residency, without providing further details.

A Western diplomat in Cairo said the residence was ransacked by armed men in RSF uniforms. No one was hurt but the armed men stole several items, said the diplomat, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to talk to the media.

The RSF denied involvement in the attack, instead blaming the military. The military blamed the RSF, which grew out of the notorious Janjaweed militias in Sudan's Darfur region, for the attacks on the US convoy and the EU envoy's home.

Early Sunday, the Norwegian ambassador's residence in Khartoum was hit by a shell, Norwegian Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt said in a statement. The hit caused damage but the ambassador was not injured, she said, adding that it did not appear the residence was intentionally targeted.

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk on Tuesday called for an immediate cease-fire and for the combatants to return to negotiations.

Sudan has already endured so much pain and suffering. The fighting is born out of power games and personal interests that only serve to alienate the democratic aspirations of the population, Turk said in a statement.

Only four years ago, Sudan inspired hope after a popular uprising helped depose long-time autocratic leader Omar al-Bashir.

Burhan and Dagalo jointly orchestrated an October 2021 coup, derailing efforts to enshrine a civilian government. Both generals have a long history of human rights abuses, and their forces have cracked down on pro-democracy activists.

Under international pressure, Burhan and Dagalo recently agreed to a framework agreement with political parties and pro-democracy groups. But the signing was repeatedly delayed as tensions rose over the integration of the RSF into the armed forces and the future chain of command  tensions that exploded into violence Saturday. (AP)



GRS
Kyiv, Apr 18 (AP) Russian President Vladimir Putin visited command posts of the Kremlin's forces fighting in Ukraine, officials said Tuesday, as the war approaches its 14th month and Kyiv readies a possible counteroffensive with Western-supplied weapons.

A video released by the Kremlin and broadcast by Russian state television showed Putin arriving by helicopter at the command post of Russian forces in southern Ukraine's Kherson province and then flying to the headquarters of the Russian National Guard in Luhansk province, which is in the east.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the visits took place Monday. The trip, Putin's second in two months to Russian-occupied territory in Ukraine, represented an apparent attempt by the Russian leader to rally his troops and demonstrate his authority.

Dressed in a dark suit, Putin appeared to chair meetings with his military top brass during both of his stops. The locations of the military headquarters weren't disclosed, making it impossible to assess how close they were to the front line. Nor was it possible to independently verify the authenticity of the video footage.

On Tuesday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made his latest trip to positions near the front line to stiffen the resolve of soldiers battling Putin's troops.

Zelenskyy visited units in Avdiivka, a city in Donetsk province where fierce battles are taking place, his office said. He heard first-hand reports about the battlefield situation and handed out awards.

Zelenskyy's visits to areas of his country that have felt the brunt of Russia's full-scale invasion gathered pace last month as he shuttled across the country, often by train. As with Putin, the Ukrainian leader's wartime trips usually aren't publicised until after he's already left an area.

Russia's war in Ukraine has become largely deadlocked amid heavy fighting in the east, particularly around the Donestk province city of Bakhmut, which for 8 months has been the stage for the longest and bloodiest battle so far.

Kherson and Luhansk, along with Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia provinces, were annexed illegally by Russia in September, following local referendums that Ukraine and the West denounced as shams.

Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak was scathing in his criticism of Putin's trip, accusing the Russian leader of degradation and being the author of mass murders in the war.

Both then and now, large parts of Donetsk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia, as well as some areas of Luhansk province, have remained under Ukrainian control. In November, Russian forces ceded territory in Kherson province, including the region's namesake capital.

In a parallel development, the Moscow-appointed governor of the occupied part of Donetsk province, Denis Pushilin, went to Minsk and won pledges of support from Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko, a Putin ally.

Analysts said Pushilin's visit was likely approved by the Kremlin and sought to remind Kyiv about the possibility of Belarus joining Russia in the war.

The Kremlin forces Minsk to get involved in the war more actively in order to pressure Ukraine with threats of Belarus joining, said Belarusian political analyst Valery Karbalevich, in a telephone interview. It is clear that Pushilin's visit to Minsk has been synchronized with Putin's trip to the occupied Ukrainian regions and aims to show that the Belarusian threat hasn't gone away.

In both locations he visited, Putin congratulated the military divisions on Orthodox Easter, which was celebrated Sunday, and presented them with icons.

Speaking to senior officers at the Kherson headquarters, Putin handed them a copy of an Orthodox icon he said belonged to a famous Russian general of the 19th century.

The senior officers present at the meetings reflected which ones were currently in favor with Putin. Col. Gen. Mikhail Teplinsky, the chief of Russia's airborne troops, was among the top generals at the Kherson base.

Teplinsky, a career officer who rose from lieutenant to become the chief of the elite military branch, is known for being popular with his troops. However, last fall he was temporarily relieved of his position amid a spat with the top military brass.

He was restored to the job earlier this year, and his attendance at the meeting with Putin indicated that he was back in favour.

A senior officer who greeted Putin in the Luhansk region, Col. Gen. Alexander Lapin, was also relieved of his duties as the commanding officer of Russian troops in Ukraine's northeast after he was blamed for a hasty Russian pullback from parts of Kharkiv province in the face of a Ukrainian counteroffensive in September.

He was later named as chief of staff of the ground forces, and his meeting with Putin on Tuesday signalled that Lapin had the president's trust.

Putin's trips to the military headquarters come as Ukraine is preparing for a new counteroffensive to reclaim the occupied territories. Last month, he visited the Russian-held port city of Mariupol, on the Sea of Azov, which was captured by Russian troops in May 2022 after two months of fierce fighting.

Ukrainian officials have said they're buying time by depleting Russian forces in eastern Ukraine while preparing for a counteroffensive.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has argued that if Russia wins the battle for Bakhmut, it could allow Putin to begin building international support for a deal that would require Ukraine to make unacceptable compromises to end the war.

Oleksiy Danilov, the secretary of Ukraine's National Security and Defence Council, told The Associated Press in an interview in Kyiv that Ukraine's allies were helping the government to assemble the materiel needed to launch a counteroffensive, including heavy armoured vehicles and ammunition.

Meanwhile, at least three civilians were killed and 11 were wounded in Ukraine between Monday and Tuesday, according to the Ukrainian president's office.

Most of the casualties occurred in the Donbas, that eastern region made up of Luhansk and Donetsk provinces, the office said. Six people were wounded in artillery fire in Kherson city, where a market area was hit. (AP)



GRS
Peshawar, Apr 18 (PTI) A Pakistani anti-terrorism court has sent a Chinese national to jail on a 14-day judicial remand on blasphemy charges in the restive Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province after he was arrested on Monday, according to media reports on Tuesday.

The police arrested the Chinese national identified as Tian on Sunday and on Monday he was shifted to Abbottabad via an Army helicopter due to security concerns as the police feared local people could harm him.

Tian was booked on blasphemy charges and sent to prison on a 14-day judicial remand by an Abbottabad anti-terrorism court on Monday, the Dawn newspaper reported.

The Chinese citizen, a manager at the Dasu Hydropower Project, the biggest hydropower project in Pakistan, in the Upper Kohistan district of the province, allegedly made blasphemous remarks on Friday when the workers were going to perform the weekly prayer.

According to local people, the Chinese manager complained to workers at the dam that precious time was being lost due to prayer breaks.

The Dasu Hydropower Project is a major venture under the USD 60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CEPC).

We have arrested the foreigner suspect under blasphemy and terrorism charges and airlifted him from here to present him before the anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Abbottabad, District Police Officer (DPO) Upper Kohistan, Mohammad Khalid, was quoted as saying in the report.

The suspect was later produced before the ATC amid strict security measures. The DPO said the Chinese national was moved to Islamabad onboard a helicopter on Monday evening, the report said.

The police registered a first information report (FIR) against Tian at the Dasu police station on Monday, hours after hundreds of residents and labourers working on the dam project blocked a key highway and rallied, demanding his arrest.

Under Pakistan's tough blasphemy laws, the offence carries the death penalty.

According to the officer, police swung into action after getting reports on Sunday night that a local mob tried to break into a Chinese camp near the project site.

The mob was controlled, but they assembled again on Monday and blocked the Karakoram Highway, which links Pakistan with China, in a protest that lasted for over six to seven hours, demanding the Chinese national's arrest.

The blocked highway was later reopened to traffic, and work resumed at the Dasu Dam after Tian's arrest.

In Beijing, China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said the embassy in Islamabad was looking into the incident.

The Chinese government has always asked Chinese citizens overseas to abide by the laws and regulations of their host countries and respect local customs and traditions, Wang told reporters at a regular news briefing.

Meanwhile, in a bid to defuse the situation, a team of Ulema from nearby towns and villages have set up a committee to examine the situation.

The meeting was attended, among others, by Upper Kohistan Deputy Commissioner Irfanullah Mehsood and District Police Officer Mohammad Khalid.

The participants urged the agitators not to take the law into their hands as police and the district administration were handling the matter admirably.

Blasphemy is a sensitive issue in Pakistan. On December 3, 2021, a Sri Lankan national working in a factory in Sialkot was lynched by a mob after workers accused him of blasphemy.

The Dasu Hydropower Project site was hit by a suicide bus blast in July 2021, in which 13 people, including nine Chinese nationals, were killed.

Nine Chinese nationals and two Frontier Corps soldiers were among those killed when the bus carrying Chinese engineers and workers to the site of the under-construction Dasu Dam exploded.

The Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS), in a report in January 2022, stated that as many as 89 citizens were killed in 1,415 accusations and cases of blasphemy in the country since independence.

The report said that from 1947 to 2021, 18 women and 71 men were extra-judicially killed over blasphemy accusations. The allegations were made against 107 women and 1,308 men.

A large number of Chinese nationals have been working in Pakistan on various projects being undertaken under the CEPC.
London, Apr 18 (PTI) The British government takes the security of the Indian High Commission in London "extremely seriously" and robustly responds to criminal incidents at diplomatic missions, the House of Commons has been informed.

In response to a written parliamentary question by Indian-origin Labour MP Navendu Mishra, UK Security Minister Tom Tugendhat said on Monday that the government finds the criminal damage and assaults on staff at the Indian High Commission in London last month unacceptable.

"The government takes the protective security of the Indian High Commission extremely seriously, said Tugendhat.

"The government remains committed to protecting the security of missions throughout the UK, including preventing and rapidly and robustly responding to incidents such as this. The criminal damage and assaults on staff from the India High Commission at the incident on the weekend of the 18th March were unacceptable. The police have powers to deal with such acts, he said.

The Home Office minister said the follow ups in the case were an operational matter for the police, with decisions on possible criminal proceedings to be made in conjunction with the UKs Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).

"As stated in our previous response, it is our long-standing policy not to provide detailed information on diplomatic security arrangements. To do so could compromise the integrity of those arrangements and affect the security of the individuals and locations concerned, he added.

Mishra had tabled his question at the end of last month to seek further information about the security assessments assured by the British government in the immediate aftermath of the attack on the High Commission premises and what steps were being taken to ensure the safety and security of diplomatic missions.

It comes as it emerged that India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) will take over the case of the attempted vandalisation of India House in London during last month's protest, as it involves unlawful activities carried out by certain people holding Indian nationality abroad.

Indian officials have said that the NIA will take over the investigation from the special cell of the Delhi Police, which had registered a case under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act.

A group of pro-Khalistani protestors shattered windows at the London mission and pulled down the national flag during protests on March 19, a day after the local police launched a crackdown against radical preacher Amritpal Singh in Punjab.
Kathmandu, Apr 18 (PTI) Nepal's President Ramchandra Poudel was admitted to a hospital here on Tuesday after he complained of shortness of breath, a senior leader of the Nepali Congress said.

Poudel, 78, was taken to the Teaching Hospital in Maharajgunj, Kathmandu. According to Baikuntha Thapaliya, the hospital's administration chief, President Paudel is undergoing treatment.

We rushed him to the hospital after his oxygen level dipped. He has been taking antibiotics for 15 days but his situation has not improved, one adviser to the President was quoted as saying by the Kathmandu Post newspaper.

Prime Minister Pushpakamal Dahal 'Prachanda' visited the hospital to inquire about Poudels health condition.

This is the second time President Poudel has been hospitalised within a month. Last week, the President complained of pain in his stomach.

A Cabinet meeting on Tuesday decided to deploy a team of government officials to facilitate his treatment.

The team will assess the nature of the Presidents illness and report to the government, a minister said. Further decisions on the Presidents treatment will be taken after the team submits its report.

Poudel of Nepali Congress was elected as the new president of Nepal last month, in a relief to the fragile coalition government headed by Prime Minister 'Prachanda'.

Poudel, a common candidate of the eight-party alliance that included Nepali Congress and Prime Minister 'Prachanda'-led CPN (Maoist Center), received the vote of 214 lawmakers of parliament and 352 provincial assembly members.
Brasilia, Apr 18 (AP) Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Monday expressed gratitude to Brazil for its approach in pushing for an end to hostilities in Ukraine  an effort that has irked both Kyiv and the West, and by afternoon prompted an unusually sharp rebuke from the White House.

Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has refused to provide weapons to Ukraine while proposing a club of nations including Brazil and China to mediate peace.

On Sunday, Lula told reporters in Abu Dhabi that two nations  both Russia and Ukraine  had decided to go to war, and a day earlier in Beijing said the US must stop stimulating the continued fighting and start discussing peace. Earlier this month, he suggested Ukraine could cede Crimea to end the war, which the spokesperson for Ukraine's foreign ministry, Oleg Nikolenko, and others rejected.

After meeting Brazil's foreign minister on Monday, Lavrov told reporters in a short press conference that the West has engaged in a rather tough struggle to maintain its dominance in world affairs, including economics and geopolitics.

As for the process in Ukraine, we are grateful to our Brazilian friends for their excellent understanding of this situation's genesis. We are grateful (to them) for striving to contribute to finding ways to settle it," Lavrov said, sitting alongside his Brazilian counterpart, Mauro Vieira.

Lula's recent comments, particularly ascribing any blame to Ukraine for Russia's invasion in Feb 2022, run counter to the position held by the European Union, the US and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. And any talk of a ceasefire is viewed as an opportunity for Russia to regroup its forces for a new offensive. Zelenskyy told The Associated Press last month that a loss anywhere at this stage in the war could put Ukraine's hard-fought momentum at risk.

Vieira, for his part, told reporters that Brazil sees sanctions against Russia as causing negative impacts for the global economy, particularly developing nations, and that Brazil supports an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine.

Following the meeting, National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby blasted Brazil's approach to the war and for its officials having met Lavrov and Russia's Vladimir Putin in person, while thus far only speaking to Ukrainian officials by phone.

Brazil has substantively and rhetorically approached this issue by suggesting that the United States and Europe are somehow not interested in peace or that we share responsibility for the war, Kirby told reporters in Washington. In this case, Brazil is parroting Russian and Chinese propaganda without at all looking at the facts.

Kirby said the Biden administration hoped Lula and others will urge the Russians to cease the bombing of Ukrainian cities, hospitals and schools, halt the war crimes and the atrocities and, quite frankly, to pull back Russian forces from Ukraine.

Both foreign ministers were meeting with Lula in the afternoon.

As part of his effort to end the war, Lula also has withheld munitions to Ukraine, despite a request from Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Lula has said that sending supplies would mean Brazil entering the war, which he seeks to end.

His administration is seeking to simultaneously develop ties with China, Europe and the US while keeping an open door to Russia. However, his recent remarks may have undermined his effort to secure these competing objectives, said Christopher Garman, managing director for the Americas at political risk consultancy Eurasia Group.

It's not a good look, when you have the Russian chancellor side by side, and it's the Russian position, Garman said by phone. The optics do diminish Brazil's credibility as an independent arbiter, but I think that the import is larger precisely because of the current storms that Lula stoked with his comments in China and the UAE.

There were already indications that Moscow had appreciated Lula's stance. One of roughly 50 leaked classified documents on the platform Discord that have been viewed by the AP said that, as of late February, Russia's foreign affairs ministry supported Lula's plan to establish a club of supposedly impartial mediators, as it would reject the West's aggressor-victim' paradigm. The item cited electronic surveillance as the source.

Critics have argued that Brazil's position aims to avoid confronting a key supplier of fertilizer for its soybean plantations, exports from which are largely destined for China. Both Russia and China hold permanent seats on the UN Security Council, and Brazil for decades has sought to join them. Lavrov told reporters on Monday that Russia is backing Brazil's bid.

Vinicius Vieira, an international relations professor at the Getulio Vargas Foundation, a university and think tank, said Lula's comments on Ukraine have been badly calibrated and that saying Kyiv should cede Crimea would appear to favour Russia.

The issue of fertilisers is fundamental, but that would be well resolved with Brazil staying neutral, calling all sides to speak, but without saying Ukraine owes something to Russia, Vieira said.

After his stay in Brazil, Lavrov will travel to Venezuela, Cuba and Nicaragua. (AP)

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Palghar, Apr 18 (PTI) At least 15 two-wheelers were destroyed in a fire at a public parking plaza in Maharashtra's Palghar district, a fire official said on Tuesday.

No person was injured in the blaze which broke out at around 10.30 pm on Monday at the parking facility located at Naigaon in Vasai area of the district, the fire official from the Vasai Virar Municipal Corporation said.

After receiving information, local firemen rushed to the spot and managed to put out the blaze after about two hours, he said.

A probe was on to ascertain the cause of the fire, he added.
Bijapur, Apr 18 (PTI) A Congress MLA on Tuesday alleged that shots were fired at his convoy in a village in insurgency-hit Bijapur district of Chhattisgarh.

Bastar Inspector General of Police Sunderraj P said the police received information about a firing by Maoists and no one was hurt in it.

A probe has been initiated in the matter, he said in a release.

Congress MLA from Bijapur Vikram Mandavi alleged that shots were fired at his convoy when he was returning from Gangalur village on Tuesday afternoon.

Talking to reporters, Mandavi said he had gone to attend a nukkad sabha (street meeting) in Gangalur weekly market and was returning to Bijapur when shots were fired near Padeda village.

The bullets hit a wheel of a car belonging to Jila Panchayat member Parvati Kashyap, who was in the convoy. Luckily, no one was hurt in the incident, he said, adding that the police had been informed about his visit.
Boris Eldagsen with DALL-E 2. Courtesy Photo Edition Berlin

Boris Eldagsen's image "The Electrician" came first in a category at the Sony World Photography Awards.

But there's a catch  the image was actually generated using DALL-E 2, the artist said.

Eldagsen said he wouldn't accept the prize. The category now does not have a winner.

An artist says his image that won first prize in a photography competition was actually generated by AI.

German photographer Boris Eldagsen said that he wouldn't be accepting the prize because his image "The Electrician" wasn't a real photo. It had come top in the creative category in the open competition at the World Photography Organisation's Sony World Photography Awards 2023.

"AI is not photography," Eldagsen, who has been a photographer for around three decades, wrote on his website. "Therefore I will not accept the award."

Boris Eldagsen said that the image "has all the flaws of AI." Boris Eldagsen with DALL-E 2. Courtesy Photo Edition Berlin

The 1940s-style black-and-white image shows a woman stood behind another with her hand on the other woman's shoulders. Other hands appear to be adjusting the dress of the woman in the foreground. Both women's gazes are averted.

Though the image looks photorealistic, there are some signs that it has been generated by AI, such as the position of some of the fingers, the appearance of some fingernails, and the shape of one of the women's pupils. Her dress also appears to blend into her arm.

"It has all the flaws of AI, and it could have been spotted but it wasn't," Eldagsen told Insider, adding that he was surprised the image won. After hearing of his success in early March, he immediately told the competition's organizers that the image was AI-generated, he said.

AI image-generation sites such as DALL-E, Midjourney, and Stable Diffusion have boomed in popularity over recent months. In their prompts, users can ask the sites to create artwork in the style of a particular artist or images of events that never happened  leading to deepfake images of former President Donald Trump being arrested going viral. Users can also ask the platforms to edit existing images.

Story continues

Eldagsen told Insider that he generated the image in September using DALL-E 2 in a process he referred to as "promptography."

"For me, working with AI image generators is a co-creation, in which I am the director," he wrote on his website. "It is not about pressing a button  and done it is. It is about exploring the complexity of this process, starting with refining text prompts, then developing a complex workflow, and mixing various platforms and techniques."

Eldagsen told Insider that he wanted to start a conversation around the relationship between AI and photography. Competition organizers should create separate categories for AI-generated art, which is becoming increasingly realistic, he said.

Some of the images Boris Eldagsen generated with DALL-E 2 in the process of creating "The Electrician." Boris Eldagsen with DALL-E 2. Courtesy Photo Edition Berlin

"Midjourney 5 really looks like photography," he said.

"The Electrician" has since been removed from the Sony World Photography Awards 2023 and no longer features on the World Photography Organisation's website or at the physical exhibition in London.

A spokesperson for CREO, the company behind the awards, told Insider that the category "The Electrician" won "welcomes various experimental approaches."

"As such, following our correspondence with Boris and the warranties he provided, we felt that his entry fulfilled the criteria for this category, and we were supportive of his participation," the spokesperson continued, adding that the image was removed after Eldagsen declined the award. The category now does not have a winner.

"While elements of AI practices are relevant in artistic contexts of image-making, the Awards always have been and will continue to be a platform for championing the excellence and skill of photographers and artists working in the medium," the spokesperson added.

"The Electrician" is part of a series by Eldagsen called "pseudomnesia," the Latin term for "fake memory." The images are "fake memories of a past, that never existed, that no-one photographed," created by putting them through AI image generators between 20 and 40 times, Eldagsen says on his website.

Images from Boris Eldagsen's "pseudomnesia" series. Boris Eldagsen with DALL-E 2. Courtesy Photo Edition Berlin

"The photographic language of photography has now separated itself from the medium," Eldagsen told Insider.

"It's free floating. It's an entity in itself and got all the knowledge and the quality of the image making from the photographic medium. But is it photography? That's a debate I just wanted to start. I don't have easy answers."

Read the original article on Business Insider
Gadchiroli, Apr 18 (PTI) Police on Tuesday said they have arrested a Naxalite who was carrying a reward of Rs 2 lakh and facing nearly two dozen serious offences in Gadchiroli district of Maharashtra.

A press release by the Gadchiroli Superintendent of Police's office said acting on specific inputs, the district special force and CRPF jawans jointly conducted an-anti Naxalite operation in the Hachbodi forest and apprehended the Naxalite, Sadhu alias Sanjay Narote.

The 31-year-old, a resident of Gadchiroli district in the eastern Maharashtra, was recruited as a member in the Gatta dalam (squad) of Maoists in 2015, said the release.

It said 23 serious offences were registered against Narote at various police stations in Gadchiroli district. These included 12 related to encounters, eight offences of murder and two of dacoity.

The Maharashtra government had announced a reward of Rs 2 lakh on his arrest, said the police.

Gadchiroli SP Neelotpal said the district police have arrested 67 Naxalites since January 2022.
Guwahati, Apr 18 (PTI) Assam Youth Congress president Angkita Dutta on Tuesday accused the units national chief Srinivas B V of being sexist and chauvinistic, and discriminating against her based on gender.

She also claimed of informing the matter to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi.

How can a sexist and chauvinistic leader @IYC torture and demean a woman every single time. What happened to @priyankagandhi ladki hoon ladk Shakti hoon (sic), the daughter of former Congress minister, Anjan Dutta, said in a series of tweets tagging Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi, among others.

She alleged that Srinivas has continually harassed her and was discriminating on the basis of my gender.

My values and education doesnt allow me anymore. The leadership has played deaf ears despite bring front of them MANY TIMES @RahulGandhi @kcvenugopalmp @priyankagandhi (sic), she said.

Dutta claimed that despite complaints, no enquiry committee has been initiated against Srinivas.

Is this the safe space @RahulGandhi talks about women @priyankagandhi, she said in another tweet.

Dutta, however, did not cite any specific instance to substantiate her claims.

Meanwhile, when contacted, Assam Pradesh Congress Committee president Bhupen Kumar Borah refused to comment on the issue.

I am in touch with AICC state in-charge Jitendra Singh over the matter. I can comment only after a thorough discussion with the AICC, Borah told PTI.
Patna, Apr 18 (PTI) With Patna recording the temperature of 44.1 degrees Celsius, the highest this season, the district administration issued an order directing all schools to wind up classes by 10.45 am from Wednesday.

Sheikhpura district was the hottest at 44.4 degrees Celsius on Tuesday, closely followed by 43.2 degrees Celsius in Banka, Jamui, Nawada, Khagaria and Rohtas.

An order issued by Patna District Magistrate Chandra Sekhar Singh said, "The district administration prohibits academic activities for all classes (including pre-schools and anganwadi centers) after 10.45 am in all schools of the district."

"The school authorities are hereby directed to reschedule their timings of academic activities in conformity of the order, which will come into force from April 19," it stated.

The Met department issued an 'orange' alert with a warning of severe heat wave conditions for two days from Tuesday in Patna, Banka, Jamui, Nawada, Aurangabad, Supaul and several other districts.

Besides, a yellow warning was also sounded for Begusarai, Nalanda, Gaya, Arwal, Bhojpur, Rohtas, Buxar, Khagaria and Munger.

The IMD uses four colour codes -- green (no action needed), yellow (watch and stay updated), orange (be prepared) and red (take action) -- for weather warning.

People are advised to avoid heat exposure and dehydration, a senior official of the Bihar Disaster Management Department said.
Kolkata, Apr 18 (PTI) Hours after his family claimed that he was "untraceable" since late Monday evening, senior TMC leader Mukul Roy said he has travelled to New Delhi for "some personal work", fuelling speculations over his next political move.

Roys family claimed that he is not in the "right frame of mind" and everyone should refrain from indulging in politics over an unwell person.

Roy told reporters that he reached the national capital but had no specific agenda.

"I have come to Delhi. There is nothing specific agenda. I have been an MP for several years. Can I not come to Delhi? Earlier, I used to come to Delhi regularly," he said.

The former railway minister's son Subhrangshu had told PTI that his father was "untraceable" and "missing" since late Monday evening.

As a section of media speculated that Roy could rejoin the BJP, Subhrangshu said his father is "extremely unwell" and suffers from "dementia and Parkinson's disease".

"My father is not in the right frame of mind. I would request everyone not to do politics with an unwell person. After he went missing, I had also filed a police complaint last night," he told reporters.

Roys son claimed when he came to know on Monday night that the TMC leader was travelling to Delhi, he had requested the authorities to de-board him, but by then, "the flight had taken off".

Speculations over Roy rejoining the BJP gained momentum after BJP national secretary Anupam Hazra made a cryptic Facebook post, "Comeback".

When contacted by a news channel, Hazra said, "It's time to wait and watch. Please wait for one or two days; everything will be clear very soon.

Reacting to Hazra's comments, Subhranghsu said it was an attempt to malign the TMC and its national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee.

"This is shameful that some people have stooped so low and are doing politics over my fathers visit to New Delhi. This is an attempt to malign the TMC and our party's national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee," he said.

Roy joined the BJP in 2017 following differences with the TMC leadership. He was made BJP national vice president in 2020.

He won from the Krishnanagar North assembly seat on a BJP ticket in 2021 and returned to the TMC just a month after the results were announced, complaining of "ill treatment" by the saffron party.

Since his return to the TMC, he has remained away from the public glare.

Roy also resigned as the chairman of the Public Accounts Committee in the West Bengal assembly last year, citing ill health.
Diphu (Assam), Apr 18 (PTI) Two persons were arrested after heroin worth Rs 3 crore was seized from their vehicle in Assam's Karbi Anglong district on Tuesday, a police officer said.

The local police and CRPF had set up a search point in the Khakrajan area based on specific information, he said.

"A vehicle coming from Dimpaur was intercepted at around 9 am. On thorough search, heroin packed in 54 soap cases was found hidden in a secret chamber of the dashboard of the vehicle," the officer said.

The heroin, weighing 687.26 gms, is estimated to be worth Rs 3 crore, he added.

The driver and helper of the vehicle, both from the Barpeta district, have been arrested, the officer said.
Unnao (UP), Apr 18 (PTI) Two infants were in a critical condition Tuesday after a group of men set fire to the home of a minor Dalit girl, whom two of them had allegedly raped last year.

The injured babies include the rape victims six-month-old child  born after the 11-year-old was impregnated in the sexual assault  and her two-month-old sister, police said.

The two rape accused, recently released on bail, allegedly barged into the family's thatched shed Monday evening with five others, after the victim refused to withdraw the case.

They beat up her mother and then set the shed on fire.

According to chief medical superintendent Sushil Srivastava, the rape victim's infant son suffered 35 per cent burns and her sister 45 per cent burns in the incident.

"As their condition worsened, both the kids were sent to Kanpur for better treatment," he said.

Santosh Singh, Circle Officer, Purva said the rape victim's father was attacked with an axe by her grandfather and uncle, who had sided with the accused, and four other people on April 13 according to a complaint filed by her mother.

The father is admitted at the district hospital with serious injuries, he said.

Police said the Dalit girl was gang-raped on February 13, 2022. She gave birth to a son in September that year.

The victim's mother also alleged that their house was set on fire to eliminate her daughter's infant son.


New Delhi, Apr 18 (PTI) India and Russia on Tuesday agreed to work towards unlocking the full potential of their economic engagement including through addressing the trade deficit and market access issues.

The two sides reviewed the entire gamut of economic ties at a meeting of the India-Russia Inter-governmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation (IRIGC-TEC).

The bilateral trade between India and Russia witnessed a significant expansion due to New Delhi's increasing procurement of discounted Russian crude oil in the backdrop of the Ukraine war.

The IRIGC-TEC meeting was co-chaired by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Russian Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov.

Manturov, who is also Russia's minister for trade and industry, visited India to attend the 24th session of the IRIGC-TEC. He was accompanied by senior representatives from several Russian ministries.

"The sides reviewed the entire gamut of bilateral trade and economic relationship, and agreed to work together to unlock its full potential including through addressing the trade deficit and market access issues," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.

The assertion to address the trade deficit came a day after Jaishankar called for urgently addressing India's trade imbalance with Russia.

In presence of Manturov, the external affairs minister, addressing an India-Russia Business Dialogue, said on Monday that finding a solution to the imbalance really means addressing the impediments such as market access issues, non tariff barriers and those relating to payments or logistics.

At the event, Jaishankar said the India-Russia trade volume was about USD 45 billion for the period April 2022 to February 2023.

India's trade deficit with Russia jumped significantly in the last few months after it procured significant volumes of discounted crude oil from that country.

During his two-day visit, Manturov also held bilateral meetings with Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.

"On April 17, India-Russia Business Dialogue was held with participation of major businesses from both sides which enabled the co-chairs and business leaders to engage and drive the momentum of shared priorities of deeper and wider bilateral commercial cooperation," the MEA said.

It said Manturov's visit is in continuation of the regular high-level dialogue between the two sides.

Jaishankar had last visited Russia in November 2022.

India has been focusing on expansion of trade and economic ties with Russia notwithstanding increasing disquiet over it by the Western powers in view of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

In his address at the business dialogue on Monday, Jaishankar said India-Russia relationship is among the "steadiest" of the major global relations.
New Delhi, Apr 18 (PTI) Ahead of the Karnataka elections, the Press Council of India on Tuesday advised the print media to follow the norms of journalistic conduct on paid news.

In advisories issued here, the Press Council of India (PCI) also cautioned against publication of any news that may appear to predict the results of the elections before the date of poll in Karnataka.

Noting that newspapers should not misconstrue or misquote the statements given by any leader, the PCI said the statements quoted in editorial should project the true spirit of what was being tried to be conveyed by them.

"Columns of news items which largely indicate names of voters on caste basis and supporters of the candidate of a particular political party, such tenor and manner of presentation of news establish the report to be paid news," it said.

Political news published in competing newspapers with similar content strongly suggests such reports to be paid news.

Two newspapers publishing the same news item verbatim during election days is not accidental and it is evident that such news items have been published for consideration.

The manner of presentation of a news item/photograph that too in favour of a particular party/candidate as also the appeal for voting in favour of a particular party is suggestive of paid news, it said.

The Council said projecting a candidate's success in election, who was yet to file a nomination, was also suggestive of paid news. News reports on campaign meetings and enthusiasm because film stars were present cannot be termed paid news.

"While covering news on the election, the newspapers are advised to ensure balance in publishing reports/interviews of candidates. During the course of election, subject to conditions laid down by the Election Commission of India, newspapers are free to make an honest assessment of prospects of candidates or the parties and its publication would not be paid news so long it is not established that consideration passed on for such publication," the Council said.

Newspapers have also been told not to publish any news survey predicting the victory of any political party without verification of it.

"An attempt to influence the voters by projecting the contesting candidate with all virtues during the election is paid news. A news item giving the negative aspect of a candidate and at the same time the positive aspect of the candidate of other political party without any basis clearly shows that it is paid news," the Council said.

The Council also advised the Print media against publishing pr publicising any such news of results, during the period of 48 hours before the hour fixed for conclusion of poll in Karnataka.
Rudraprayag (U'khand), Apr 18 (PTI) A maximum of 13,000 pilgrims can visit Kedarnath per day when the annual pilgrimage to the Himalayan temple in Uttarakhand begins on April 25.

The government has set a daily limit of 13,000 pilgrims for Kedarnath this time and a token system has also been introduced for the convenience of the pilgrims, Rudraprayag District Magistrate (DM) Mayur Dikshit told a press conference here on Tuesday.

Dikshit and Rudraprayag Superintendent of Police (SP) Vishakha Ashok Bhadane, who reviewed the arrangements for the forthcoming yatra, held a joint press conference.

The daily limit on the number of pilgrims visiting the temple and the introduction of the token system are meant for a smooth conduct of the yatra, Dikshit said.

The pilgrims will get better medical care this time with the deployment of 22 doctors and an equal number of pharmacists along the yatra route.

There will be three physicians and two orthopaedic surgeons among them, Dikshit said.

Twelve medical relief points have also been set up along the route.

Six ambulances have been deployed along the route, of which three have been kept in reserve, and an air ambulance has also been arranged by the government for any emergency.

Sulabh International has been given the responsibility of keeping the yatra route clean, while the Kedarnath Nagar Panchayat has been assigned the task of keeping the temple premises clean.

Permanent toilets are being built by Sulabh International and for waste management, a QR-code system is being implemented for plastic and water bottles.

Health examinations of horses and mules are also being conducted by the animal husbandry department along the yatra route.

Jal Sansthan has installed nine water purifiers from Sonprayag to Kedarnath Dham to provide pure drinking water to the pilgrims.

The DM said 2,500 people would be accommodated in Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN) guesthouses from Guptkashi to Badi Lincholi.

Besides, two tent colonies with 80 beds each are being set up at New Ghoda Padav and Himlok Colony in Kedarnath Dham, which will accommodate 1,600 people.

The SP said 450 police officers and employees have been deployed to conduct the yatra in an orderly manner and arrangements for 150-200 police personnel from outside the state are being made.

A lost-and-found centre will also be operated during the yatra. Along with this, signboards have been prepared in different languages for the pilgrims coming from various states.

Additional parking lots have been identified to deal with the frequent traffic snarls during the pilgrimage, the officials said.
Jaipur, Apr 18 (PTI) Senior Congress leaders were holding individual meetings with party MLAs from Udaipur, Kota and Bharatpur divisions on Tuesday to get their feedback ahead of the Rajasthan Assembly polls due later this year.

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, Congress state in-charge Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa and state president Govind Singh Dotasra were interacting with the MLAs in the party's new office in Jaipur.

While Congress leaders say the objective of the exercise, which began on Monday, is to get feedback from the MLAs about their constituency, it has come days after senior party leader Sachin Pilot sat on a day-long fast alleging inaction by the Gehlot government into allegations of corruption during the previous BJP rule.

Pilot, who has been involved in a leadership tussle with Gehlot, renewed his demand on Monday, saying, "It's been a week now but no action has been taken".

The Tonk MLA skipped his interaction with party leaders on Monday and instead addressed two scheduled public meetings in Shahpura (Jaipur) and Khetri (Jhunjhunu). Tonk comes under the Ajmer division.

Gehlot tweeted photos of the one-on-one discussion held with MLAs from Ajmer and Jodhpur divisions on Monday night.

The chief minister said necessary suggestions were received regarding 'Mission 2030' to make Rajasthan the number 1 state by then.

According to the schedule released by the party, a one-day workshop will be organised on Wednesday in which the MLAs, and other party leaders and workers will participate.

On Thursday, the MLAs from Bikaner and Jaipur divisions will interact with Randhawa, Gehlot and Dotasra.
By Praveen Menon

SYDNEY (Reuters) - Australia said on Wednesday it would introduce new standards targeting vehicle emissions to boost the uptake of electric cars, as it looks to catch up with other developed economies.

Just 3.8% of cars sold in Australia last year were electric, well behind other developed economies such as Britain and Europe, where electric cars made up 15% and 17% of sales, respectively.

The new national electric vehicle strategy will introduce a fuel efficiency standard that will outline how much carbon dioxide a car will produce when running, Energy Minister Chris Bowen said in a news conference.

"Fuel-efficient and electric vehicles are cleaner and cheaper to run - today's announcement is a win-win for motorists," Bowen said in a statement.

Details would be finalised in the coming months, he added.

Apart from Russia, Australia was the only developed country to either not have or be developing fuel efficiency standards, which encourage manufacturers to supply more electric and no-emission vehicles.

Transport is the third largest source of carbon emissions in Australia - one of the world's biggest emitters on a per capita basis. The initiative will help cut the country's emissions by at least 3 million tonnes of carbon by 2030, and over 10 million tonnes by 2035, Bowen said.

The Electric Vehicle Council (EVC) welcomed the move but said Australia must bring in strong standards or "remain the worlds dumping ground for dated, high-emission vehicles," chief executive Behyad Jafari said.

On average, new cars in Australia use 40% more fuel than the European Union and 20% more than the United States, with studies showing the introduction of a fuel efficiency standard could save motorists A$519 ($349) per year, Bowen said.

Greens party leader Adam Bandt said the government's strategy needs to accelerate and needs electric vehicle targets as well as the fuel efficiency standards.

CHARGING DEBATE

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Demand for electric vehicles is growing in Australia, although supply has not kept up with demand in the absence of incentives for automakers.

(Graphic: Australian EV sales pick up but still niche - https://www.reuters.com/graphics/AUSTRALIA-RENEWABLES/EV/zdpxdablkpx/chart.png)

Australia's centre-left Labor government last year flagged plans to introduce new regulations to increase sales of electric cars.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who won power last year on a promise of climate policy reforms, cut taxes for electric vehicles and raised Australia's 2030 target for cutting carbon emissions to a 43% reduction from 2005 levels.

The initiatives came after about a decade of inaction under the previous Liberal government, which set Australia behind all its peers.

Former Prime Minister Scott Morrison said in 2019 that policies to reduce vehicle emissions would "end the weekend", while other critics said it would be a death knell for popular utility vehicles, or utes, used by builders and farmers.

Bowen acknowledged more needs to be done on infrastructure to charge EV cars.

There are about 83,000 EVs on Australian roads and as at December 2022, there were just over 4,900 public chargers located at fewer than 2,400 sites.

"We're way behind the rest of the world again," Bowen said in a radio interview later in the day.

"We are fixing that. We've got a policy of putting in a fast charger once every 150 kilometres on the highway. I'll be saying more about that pretty soon," he said.

($1 = 1.4868 Australian dollars)

(Additional reporting by Renju Jose and Lewis Jackson in Sydney; Editing by Lincoln Feast)
Jaipur, Apr 18 (PTI) A woman and her three children died after falling into a well in Rajasthan's Udaipur district, police said.

According to the family members, Navli (30), her two sons and a daughter -- aged 8, 10 and 12 years  accidentally fell into the well in a remote area, SHO (Nai) Shyam Singh Ratnoo said.

However, the police have not ruled out the possibility of suicide.

The bodies were shifted to the mortuary of a local hospital for post-mortem.

The SHO said that the family members are calling it an accident.

The matter is being probed from all angles, he said.
Jammu, Apr 18 (PTI) Chief of staff of Armys Northern Command Lt Gen Anindya Sengupta on Tuesday interacted with a Tiranga mountain rescue (TMR) team after its successful stint to provide rescue cover to troops during natural calamities in high-altitude areas, officials said.

The team of 21 members was led by Col Satish Sharma and it met Lt Gen Sengupta in Jammu and Kashmirs Udhampur district, they said.

The Tiranga mountain rescue team (TMR) was deployed in high-altitude areas to provide specialised avalanche and mountain rescue cover to troops during the winter season from November 2022 to April 2023, a Jammu-based defence PRO said.

Lt Gen Sengupta congratulated the team for its commendable work in protecting the troop and the civil population in remote areas from natural calamities.

He said the TMR was a source of strength for soldiers deployed in high-risk and threat-prone areas.

He also said the seamless synergy between the TMR team and the troops has brought down the casualties in mountainous areas due to natural calamities in the Northern Command.

The TMR team members received special appreciation for saving the lives of armed forces personnel by increasing awareness on how to safeguard oneself from natural disasters, the PRO said.
Patna, Apr 18 (PTI) For 26-year-old conservation architect Diptanshu Sinha, the razing of the Dutch and British-era Patna Collectorate also led to demolition of whatever hopes he had for the revival and redemption of the historic city's "dying heritage".

Heartbroken, he quit his job at an NGO dealing with heritage structures and moved to Gurugram.

"Every person has a breaking point. I couldn't take the razing of the collectorate building which preceded a wave of demolition since 2010. The last structure in the collectorate campus to go down was the frontage of its famed Dutch-era Record Room which had magnificent columns, and carried within its wide walls, centuries of history of urban evolution of Patna," Sinha said.

Patna Collectorate -- the headquarters of the district administration -- consisted of a cluster of buildings, including the 17th-century Record Room and old District Engineer's Office, both from the Dutch era; and the British-era DM Office Building and the iconic District Board Patna Building of 1938.

According to him, what the centuries-old collectorate building needed was a "human touch of restoration" and instead it got the "cold claws of bulldozers".

Sinha claimed that Patna gets excited about the opening of a new mall. But heritage is not on its agenda, and World Heritage Day is rather alien to them, he said.

World Heritage Day is celebrated on April 18 every year to raise people's awareness about the diversity of cultural heritage and the efforts that are required to protect and conserve it.

"The city has become ruthless when it comes to heritage. The government destroys old buildings in the name of development and people look the other way without any guilt," Sinha alleged.

He was a part of the citizen-led movement 'Save Historic Patna Collectorate' that fought for six years to save the landmark, that featured in the Oscar-winning film "Gandhi", from demolition.

The Supreme Court on May 13 last year rejected a plea by INTACH to save the landmark, and bulldozers rolled in the next day. The cluster of buildings in the 12-acre Patna Collectorate campus were razed in phases, the last demolition taking place in late December.

Prior to this, over a century-old Gole Market was dismantled in 2019 to make way for a smart city, the 1885-built Anjuman Islamia Hall was razed in 2018, Bankipore Central Jail in 2010, and a range of other heritage buildings in the last 13 years, including the City SP Bungalow, Civil Surgeon's Bungalow, District and Sessions Judge Bungalow, New Police Line Building, among others.

Many historians and architects have criticised the razing of the historic Patna Medical College and Hospital buildings in a phased manner for a redevelopment project. The 100-year-old Sultan Palace is also facing the threat of demolition since June last year.

"They want to give new projects to people. There is nothing wrong with that but it is happening at the cost of our heritage. Recently, a major portion of the historic Cancer Block of the PMCH was dismantled for a Patna Metro corridor and PMCH station. Given the maniacal pace of insensitive development, everything old will be erased in a few years," rued 19-year-old Aman Lal.

Lal, a student of Patna College, claimed the city was under a "development overdrive" with "scant regard for old buildings and other heritage structures".

Mumbai-based conservation architect Abha Narain Lambah, who has worked on conservation projects in many cities, some of which have won UNESCO awards, said demolition of old buildings "denudes the character" of historic cities.

"What separates Patna from Delhi, Mumbai from Lucknow, Noida from Calcutta, are the old buildings. These structures are part of our composite urban fabric and should not be treated as a burden or a liability, but an asset," she told PTI.

"Demolition of old buildings leads to erasing tangible heritage and collective memories of a city. Patna should act wisely when it comes to its heritage buildings," Lambah said.

On World Heritage Day, many other experts also pitched for preserving the past while building a future in Patna, saying that "restoration and not demolition is the way forward".

Kamalika Bose, a conservation architect from Mumbai who recently visited Patna, said, "The lament and criticism over the loss of built heritage were evident while interacting with long-time residents and old-timers."

"While much may be lost, it is never too late for a turnaround. A concerted effort to safeguard, restore and reuse what remains is most essential," she said.
New Delhi, Apr 18 (PTI) The Centre and the Gujarat government on Tuesday told the Supreme Court that they may file a plea seeking a review of its March 27 order asking them to be ready with original files on the grant of remission to the convicts in the Bilkis Bano case.

A bench of Justices K M Joseph and B V Nagarathna questioned the paroles granted to 11 convicts during their incarceration period and said the gravity of the offence could have been considered by the state.

It said, "A pregnant woman was gang-raped and several people were killed. You cannot compare victim's case with standard section 302 (murder) cases. Like you cannot compare apples with oranges, similarly massacre cannot be compared with single murder. Crimes are generally committed against society and the community. Unequals cannot be treated equally."

"The question is whether government applied its mind and what material formed the basis of its decision to grant remission," the bench said, adding, Today it is Bilkis but tomorrow it can be anyone. It may be you or me. If you do not show your reasons for grant of remission, then we will draw our own conclusions."

The bench posted the batch of pleas challenging the remission to the convicts in Bilkis Bano case for final disposal on May 2 and asked all the convicts who have not been served notices to file their replies.

It asked the Centre and the state to make its stand clear about filing of a review plea.

On March 27, terming Bilkis Bano's gang-rape and the murder of her family members during the 2002 Godhra riots as a "horrendous" act, the Supreme Court had asked the Gujarat government whether uniform standards, as followed in other cases of murder, were applied while granting remission to the 11 convicts in the case.

It had sought a response from the Centre, Gujarat government and others on a plea filed by Bilkis Bano, who was gang-raped and seven members of her family were killed during the 2002 post-Godhra riots.

Bano has challenged the remission of sentence of 11 convicts in the case.

All the 11 convicts were granted remission by the Gujarat government and released on August 15 last year.

The top court is seized of PILs filed by CPI(M) leader Subhashini Ali, Revati Laul, an independent journalist, Roop Rekha Verma, who is a former vice chancellor of the Lucknow University, and TMC MP Mahua Moitra against the release of the convicts.

Bano was 21 years old and five months pregnant when she was gang-raped while fleeing the riots that broke out after the Godhra train burning incident. Her three-year-old daughter was among the seven family members killed.
Bengaluru, Apr 18 (PTI) A special court here on Tuesday rejected Congress leader Vinay Kulkarni's request to enter Dharwad, from where he is the party's candidate for the May 10 Assembly polls in Karnataka, over stipulations laid down by the Supreme Court barring his presence in the district.

Kulkarni, an accused in the murder of BJP leader Yogesh Gowda in 2016, was granted bail by the apex court on the condition that he would not be allowed to enter Dharwad district.

The Additional City Civil and Session Court, Special Court for People's Representatives, had completed hearing on his plea to enter Dharwad on Monday, and announced its judgment today.

The counsel for the CBI had argued before Judge B Jayant Kumar against allowing Kulkarni entry into Dharwad citing that 90 witnesses in the murder case were residing in the city and the presence of the accused there would be detrimental to the case.

Since he was an influential person, he may pressure the witnesses. The court was told that it was not possible to provide security to all the witnesses.

One of the conditions imposed by the Supreme Court in its order granting bail to Kulkarni on August 11, 2021 was the restriction on his entry to Dharwad.

The CBI counsel had also submitted that there was provision for filing of nomination for the election through a representative and his presence was not required. Incidentally, the nomination on behalf of Kulkarni was filed in Dharwad on Tuesday.

Senior counsel C H Hanumantaraya had appeared for Kulkarni before the special court and argued that either the CBI or the local police could provide security to the witnesses if there was apprehension that the Congress leader may influence them.

Kulkarni had also claimed that he owned 1,200 cattle and 2,400 goats and his wife and children were finding it difficult to maintain them on their own.
Gurugram, Apr 18 (PTI) An interstate criminal involved in over 30 cases including murder, robbery and dacoity has been arrested here, police said on Tuesday.

The accused, Monu (30) was arrested by the crime unit, Manesar team on Monday night from Pachgaon Chowk, they said.

Monu along with his two accomplices had robbed a taxi driver of his vehicle on Saturday after taking a lift in the cab as passengers, police said.

The stolen car was recovered from Monus possession and his two associates -- Amit alias Mota and Ajit -- were arrested on Sunday from Nainwal village, Preet Pal Singh Sangwan, ACP, crime said

During interrogation, Monu revealed that about 3 dozen cases have been registered against him in various police stations of Gurugram on the charges of robbery, dacoity, murder, attempt to murder and extortion among others, the ACP said.

The accused was lodged in jail in the case of shooting and murder at Panchgaon Chowk and after coming out of jail on bail on March 14, he became active again in crime, he said.

His accomplices were sent into judicial custody while we are questioning Monu, ACP Sangwan said.
FILE - Police officers respond after an officer was stabbed in Spectra Boutique Apartments on May 17, 2018, in Hartford, Conn. A judge on Friday, April 14, 2023, has ended the nearly 50 years of federal oversight of police in Hartford, despite continued concerns the department still has not hired enough minority officers to reflect the city's large Black and Hispanic populations.
EDMONTON, AB, April 18, 2023 /CNW/ - AutoCanada Inc. ("AutoCanada" or the "Company") (TSX: ACQ), a multi-location North American automobile dealership group, announced today that it has acquired Premier Chevrolet Cadillac Buick GMC ("Premier"), a new and used vehicle Chevrolet Cadillac GMC Buick dealership and collision centre, located in Windsor, Ontario.

AutoCanada Inc. Logo (CNW Group/AutoCanada Inc.)

"We are thrilled to announce the acquisition of this exceptional dealership and collision centre, which further bolsters our physical footprint in Windsor an attractive market in Southwestern Ontario. This acquisition not only adds a dealership with significant growth potential to our portfolio, but also brings a certified collision centre into the AutoCanada Collision platform," said Executive Chairman, Paul Antony. "Notably, the acquisition expands our relationship with Chevrolet, Cadillac, GMC, and Buick, adds another Cadillac store into our dealership portfolio, and represents our third dealership in Windsor. We look forward to building upon the strong foundation established by the previous owners and working with the talented team at Premier to further grow the business and serve customers throughout the Windsor market."

Premier is a well-established business in the Windsor area, having served the local community for over 46 years with a track record of delivering top-tier customer satisfaction. The dealership features facilities of more than 42,000 square feet on five acres, including a collision centre that operates out of a 12,000 square foot facility with 14 service bays. The current management team will continue to operate the business going forward.

Financial Highlights

The acquired dealership including the collision centre generates in excess of $70 million in annual revenue. The transaction will be 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 83 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 three used vehicle dealerships and one used vehicle auction business supporting the Used Digital Retail Division, 11 RightRide division locations, and 10 stand-alone collision centres within our group of 26 collision centres. In 2022, our dealerships sold approximately 100,000 vehicles and processed over 900,000 service and collision repair orders in our 1,367 service bays generating revenue in excess of $6 billion.

Story continues

Additional information about AutoCanada 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 dealership, the successful integration of such dealership into AutoCanada's business, and the growth of the Company's collision and F&I divisions.

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 dealership, the successful integration of the acquired dealership into AutoCanada's platform, the growth opportunities at the acquired dealership and the growth opportunities for our collision and RightRide divisions.

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.

Cision

View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/April2023/18/c8425.html




A political battle is brewing between former President Donald Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, as both sides launch attack ads ahead of the 2024 Republican nomination. Never Back Down, a pro-DeSantis super PAC, aired its first TV ad on Fox News Sunday titled Fight Democrats, Not Republicans, directly targeting Trump. The ad questions why Trump is spending millions attacking the Republican governor of Florida instead of focusing on his legal battle with the Democrat prosecutor in New York.

On the other side, the Make America Great Again super PAC released an ad last month that tied DeSantis to Republicans who have suggested cuts to Social Security and Medicare. This has been a significant issue for both the primary and general election. Trump supporters believe that this issue could undercut DeSantis claim that he is more electable than the former president, who has vowed to protect safety-net programs.

In addition to the Social Security issue, the MAGA PAC has also released an ad mocking DeSantis for eating pudding with his fingers on a private plane trip in 2019. The ad says DeSantis has his dirty fingers all over senior entitlements, and urges someone to get this man a spoon!

The anti-Trump TV ad aired only once on Foxs Sunday show, but Never Back Down plans to put seven figures behind its first full national TV buy, Anthem, which portrays DeSantis as a hero standing up for everyday Americans. Trump, who sees DeSantis as his biggest threat, holds a significant lead in the 2024 GOP presidential race. He has seen a massive fundraising bump after being indicted in New York, with his campaign raising more than $34 million this year alone.

Never Back Downs ad is seen as the beginning of a vicious fight between the two leading contenders for the Republican nomination, even though DeSantis has not formally entered the race. While Trump and his super PAC have accused DeSantis of being wishy-washy on preserving Social Security, the pro-DeSantis ad asks the loaded question: What happened to Donald Trump? As the battle heats up, it remains to be seen who will emerge victorious and become the Republican nominee for president in 2024.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)




The Federal Trade Commission has issued a warning about a new type of scam that could trick people into sending money to criminals. For years, scammers have pretended to be authority figures, like police officers, to demand money to help a friend or family member in trouble. Now, the FTC has warned that criminals are using voice cloning technology to impersonate loved ones and con people into sending them money.

According to the FTC, scammers only need a short audio clip of someones voice to generate a clone using artificial intelligence. When the scammer calls, theyll sound just like the loved one, making it difficult for people to detect the fraud. The FTC has advised people to hang up and call the person directly to verify the story, particularly if they ask for payment via wire transfer, cryptocurrency, or a gift card.

Just this month, an Arizona mother received a call from an unknown number but it was her daughter who was crying for help. The scammer/attacker then got on and threatened to hurt her daughter if the mother didnt hand over ransom money.

Fortunately, she had friends around who were able to confirm her daughter was safe within four minutes which made her realize it wasnt actually her daughter on the phone with her. But the level of accuracy of AI voice clone really shook her. It was completely her voice. It was her inflection. It was the way she would have cried, she said. I never doubted for one second it was her. Thats the freaky part that really got me to my core.

The FTC has not provided an estimate of how many people have fallen victim to this type of scam, but it has highlighted some high-profile incidents. In 2019, scammers impersonated a UK-based energy firm CEO and demanded $243,000. In early 2020, a bank manager in Hong Kong was fooled by someone using voice-cloning technology into making hefty transfers. Earlier this year, at least eight senior citizens in Canada lost a combined $200,000 in an apparent voice-cloning scam.

Experts have warned that voice-cloning technology is advancing, and its cost is dropping, making it more accessible to scammers. Before, it required a sophisticated operation. Now small-time crooks can use it, said Subbarao Kambhampati, a professor of computer science at Arizona State University. With the rise of deepfake videos, which show celebrities doing and saying things they havent, its clear that scammers are becoming more sophisticated in their attempts to con people.

Artificial intelligence is no longer a far-fetched idea out of a sci-fi movie. Were living with it, here and now.

How to protect against AI voice clone scams

Ask a challenge question or even two  something only your loved one would be able to answer (e.g. name your childhood stuffed animal, etc.) Remember, dont ask a question to which the answer could be found on social media, online, etc. If possible, have someone call or text the person directly that the scammer is claiming needs help Letting unknown numbers go to voicemail may help, but if the attackers are able to leave a voicemail with your loved ones voice, it could sound real Set your social media profiles to private  many attackers look for voice samples from public social media profiles to generate the convincing AI voice clone Its believed as little as 3 seconds of someones voice is needed to create a realistic clone Dont share your phone number on social media if possible

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)




Southwest Airlines planes were grounded nationwide for what the airline called an intermittent technology issue, causing more than 1,700 flight delays Tuesday just four months after the carrier suffered a meltdown over the Christmas travel rush.

The hold on departures was lifted by late morning, shortly after it was announced, according to Southwest and the Federal Aviation Administration, but not before traffic at airports from Denver to New York City backed up.

Southwest has resumed operations after temporarily pausing flight activity this morning to work through data connection issues resulting from a firewall failure, the Dallas airline said in a prepared statement. Early this morning, a vendor-supplied firewall went down and connection to some operational data was unexpectedly lost.

The airline urged customers to check on their flight status and explore self-service options for travel as the airline worked on restoring its operation.

By late morning on the East Coast, Southwest accounted for well over half of all delays nationwide, but the airline had canceled fewer than a dozen flights, according to FlightAware.

Tuesdays flight freeze was brief, but it added to the picture of an airline that has struggled more than most with technology issues. CEO Robert Jordan has embarked on a campaign to repair the airlines damaged reputation.

In December, Southwest canceled nearly 17,000 flights over the X-Mas holiday due to bad weather and its crew-scheduling system becoming overwhelmed. Those cancellations cost the airline more than $1 billion. The Transportation Department is investigating the breakdown.

The airlines unions have said they warned management about problems with the crew-scheduling system after a previous meltdown in October 2021.

Southwest said last month it would add deicing equipment and increase staffing during winter weather that is cold enough to limit the amount of time that ground workers can stay outside.

(AP)




A project to develop small nuclear power reactors in Poland is moving forward, with Polish energy company Orlen and two U.S. government financial institutions signing an agreement Monday.

Poland is turning toward energy that is renewable or does not use climate-changing fossil fuels as it tries to break its reliance on coal. Moscows invasion of Ukraine also has accelerated Polands drive to cut its dependence on Russian oil and natural gas.

In a ceremony at the U.S. ambassadors residence in Warsaw, the U.S. Export-Import Bank and U.S. International Development Finance Corporation signed letters of interest to lend up to $3 billion and up to $1 billion, respectively, to the Orlen Synthos Green Energy project. Its aims is to develop around 20 small BWRX-300 modular reactors designed by GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy.

U.S. Ambassador Mark Brzezinski stressed that Russias aggression against Ukraine almost 14 months ago reinforced the need to turn toward safe and reliable energy sources.

Later, Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki said at a news conference that the country needed a cheap, clean and reliable energy source like the small nuclear reactors that will produce emission-free energy and be a driving force for the economy for decades to come.

Coal mining is among Polands largest employers, providing around 80,000 jobs and supplying about 70% of the countrys energy, and Morawiecki said the industry will continue to guarantee power security. He stressed, however, that global climate concerns and European Union regulations are calling for a shift to renewable and clean energy, which the nuclear reactors plan is helping advance.

Orlen CEO Daniel Obajtek told The Associated Press that only nuclear power can guarantee energy security and keep the lights on when the wind isnt blowing or sun isnt shining.

He said the support of the U.S. financial institutions shows the credibility of the process of developing nuclear energy.

It comes after Germany shut down its last three nuclear power plants this past weekend as it transitions to renewable energy like wind and solar, which has drawn skepticism at home and abroad.

Polands first BWRX-300 reactor should launch in 2029 and will be the worlds second, after a similar one opens in Darlington, Canada.

Synthos Green Energy owner and Polish billionaire Michal Solowow, Obajteks business partner in the project, calls it a energy revolution for the country, ironically brought about by its poor climate record.

From the condition it is in today  meaning the worse energy mix that we have in the EU  Poland can turn within the next 20 years into a leader, Solowow told the AP. This bad situation we are in today is offering us a chance to make intensive investments and move into a totally new dimention.

Last year, Orlen drew criticism for expanding and acquiring Polish fuels company Lotos and gas firm PGNiG under one label, making it the biggest energy operation in Central and Eastern Europe. It also has a refinery in Lithuania and fuel stations in Germany, the Czech Republic and Slovakia.

Obajtek defended the move, saying it gave the company greater potential and resilience in changing or unfavorable economic conditions.

A multi-energy company is more stable in unfavorable environment in all sorts of challenges in the economy, he said in his spacious Warsaw office.

The company plans to expand further, Obajtek said, but refused to divulge the details.

He said at a news conference earlier that there is no stopping of energy transformation and that the oil and gas company  49.9% owned by the Polish state  is planning 320 billion zlotys ($75 billion) of investments.

That money will go to both offshore and more onshore renewable energy as well as to advanced fuel technologies, including biofuels, he said in an interview.

Orlens oil comes from Saudi Arabia, the North Sea, west Africa and from the U.S.

Obajtek said the deal with Saudi Aramco, which obtained a 30% stake in a refinery in Gdansk, secured joint development of new technologies and stable deliveries (of the required quality of oil from) a stable partner who is the biggest oil producer in the world.

In February, Polands government and the U.S. Westinghouse Electric Company signed a deal for pre-design cooperation on the central European nations first large nuclear power plant, using the American companys technology. Construction is to begin in 2026, and it aims to start supplying the energy grid in 2032.

(AP)




An Arab resident of east Jerusalem was shot by the police overnight Sunday in the Jewish neighborhood of Neve Yaakov after shouting Allahu Akbar, setting fire to a car and damaging ten other cars.

The suspect was also holding a suspicious object in his hand that could not be identified by the police and was wearing a coat. When the police arrived at the scene, they demanded that he remove his coat, and when he refused, they shot him.

Earlier this morning, the police received a report about a person causing damage to many vehicles in the Neve Yaakov neighborhood in Jerusalem, a statement from Israel Police said on Monday morning.

Police officers who were called to the scene identified the suspect who was wearing a coat and holding some object in his hand. At the same time, an explosion was heard from a vehicle at the scene, which the Arab had allegedly set on fire.

The officers began the procedure of arresting a suspect and asked him to remove his coat but he did not respond to their calls. At one point, the suspect began muttering Allahu Akbar and other verses and a police officer fired a single bullet at him.

The suspect, a resident of East Jerusalem in his 20s, was injured and was evacuated to the hospital for medical treatment. Police forces arrived at the scene, and found a vehicle that had been set on fire and at least 10 other vehicles that the suspect had damaged.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)




The Jerusalem District police in cooperation with Israeli security forces thwarted eight attempted terror attacks in the Jerusalem area in the recent period.

Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion visited the police command room near the Kosel on Sunday evening to thank the police for their extensive efforts during the month of Ramadan.

I came here with the director-general of the municipality and my staff to thank you, Lion said. Im here not only as the mayor but as a messenger of all the residents of the city of Jerusalem. You work around the clock and ensure the security of Jerusalem even when the month of Ramadan falls out at the same time as Pesach and Easter when tens of thousands of tourists from all over the State of Israel and the world flock here.

I know that most of you werent at home on Seder night and that shouldnt be taken for granted. Youre the ones who allowed us to continue with a normal routine. I walked around the city a lot during the Chag and everyone was happy. I dont think there is such a place in the State of Israel where everyone works together as onethank you very much, Im proud of you.

Jerusalem District Commander Doron Turgeman said: We are nearing the end of an important and complex monthwere here day and night out of great faith and shlichut in order to allow everyone in the city of Jerusalem to enjoy freedom of worship and the atmosphere of the Chag. We thwarted eight terrorist attacks recently, some based on intelligence and some based on police vigilance. We work in full cooperation and I want to say to you, Mayor, thank you very much for an amazing partnership and for doing things with a neshama gedolah.'

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)




The 22nd annual Anti-Semitism Worldwide Report by the Center for the Study of Contemporary European Jewry in Tel Aviv University, published in collaboration with the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), was published on Monday ahead of Yom HaShoah, which begins on Monday evening, April 17.

The report states that Chareidi Jews are the main target of physical anti-Semitic attacks in the West, such as hitting, spitting and throwing objects. The report is based on an analysis of dozens of reported physical attacks in New York, where the largest number of such attacks occurred in the US in 2022, in London, where the largest number of such attacks occurred in Europe, and other cities throughout the world.

According to the report, the physical attacks occurred in a small number of areas in major urban centers, mostly on the street or on public transportation rather than near shuls, and most are not premeditated.

Chareidim are the main victims not only because they are easily identifiable as Jews, but also because they are perceived as vulnerable and unlikely to fight back.

The research indicates that more policing and indictments in a limited number of urban spaces in various countries in the West may lead to a significant decrease in the number of violent anti-Semitic attacks, said Prof. Uriya Shavit, the head of the Center for the Study of Contemporary European Jewry. The fight against anti-Semitism must include more measurable and transparent practical goals and less declarations and shouts of Gevalt.'

It was very disturbing to hear from Chareidim in Stamford Hill that they accept anti-Semitism as part of living in exile, said Dr. Carl Yonker, a senior researcher at the center.

Jonathan Greenblatt, the global CEO of the Anti-Defamation League said: The data in the report published today is very worrying. It is troubling to see the significant increase in anti-Semitic incidents and various trends in the US and other countries. There were no specific events in 2022 that could be linked to the rise of anti-Semitism, which indicates the depth of the hatred of Jews worldwide.

The report shows that in 2022 there was a significant increase in the number of anti-Semitic incidents in the US and other countries, alongside a decrease in other countries. The Anti-Defamation League recorded 3,697 anti-Semitic incidents in the US compared to 2,717 in 2021, which was a record year in itself. The New York Police Department recorded 261 hate crimes against Jews in 2022 compared to 214 in 2021, the Los Angeles Police Department  86 compared to 79, and the Chicago Police  38 versus 8.

According to the authors of the report, a disturbing trend of the normalization of trolling was evident in the American public discourse. The number of incidents of the spread of anti-Semitic propaganda by followers of white supremacy in the USA increased almost threefold since 2021.

The reports editors noted that a certain increase in the number of anti-Semitic incidents recorded in 2022 compared to 2021 was also recorded in Belgium, Hungary, Italy and Australia, among others. In Belgium, 17 anti-Semitic attacks were recorded compared to three in 2021.

Prof. Shavit and Dr. Yonker stated that the record data for 2021 was mainly attributed to the social tensions created by the COVID pandemic and the response to Operation Guardian of the Walls in Gaza, and hence the data for 2022 indicate that the roots of the current wave of anti-Semitism are deeper, especially in the USA. They point to three intertwining factors: increasing social and cultural tensions; the rise of the radical right and the radical left at the expense of the political center; and the proliferation of echo chambers on social networks where conspiracy theories are spread as undisputed truth.

In a review of Russia, the report notes that in the past year, alarming anti-Semitic statements by those close to Putins government have been recorded, along with the continuous cynical use of the memory of the Holocaust by the Russian regime. These raise the fear that Russian Jews will become scapegoats for the regimes military failure. Fascists are never reliable allies for religious minorities and the protection of human rights, the report noted.

The in-depth articles in the report discuss, among other things, the entry of two small anti-Semitic parties into the upper house of the Japanese parliament, and the harsh anti-Semitic propaganda that the Houthis in Yemen have begun to spread. In 2022, it again became clear that anti-Semitism does not need the presence of Jews or direct rivalry with Israel to find supporters, the report noted.

Other in-depth articles in the report discuss the failed coup attempt by an anti-Semitic group in Germany, the differences between anti-Semitism in the contemporary American radical right and white American anti-Semitism in the past, anti-Semitic currents in the Black Hebrew movement in the USA, and the legal battle for the freedom to spread anti-Semitic propaganda in the USA.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)




Elon Musk, the billionaire entrepreneur, has issued a warning that artificial intelligence could lead to civilization destruction. In a recent interview, Musk expressed concern that the proliferation of AI products for general consumer use, including those developed by tech giants like Google and Microsoft, could lead to catastrophic consequences.

Musk, who is deeply involved in the growth of AI through his various companies, including a rumored new venture, has repeatedly warned about the dangers of AI. Last month, he joined a group of other tech leaders in signing an open letter calling for a six-month pause in the out of control race for AI development.

Despite his warnings, Musk has been a part of the broader AI arms race through investments across his sprawling empire of companies. Tesla, for example, relies heavily on artificial intelligence and even hosts an annual AI day to showcase its work. Musk was also a founding member of OpenAI, the company behind products like ChatGPT, which Musk has said is not what I intended at all.

More recently, Musk is reportedly working to build a generative AI startup that could rival OpenAI and ChatGPT. According to the Financial Times, Musk is building a team of AI researchers and engineers, as well as seeking investors for a new venture. Musk last month incorporated a company called X.AI, the report says, citing Nevada business records.

Musk hinted at this effort in his interview, saying, were going to start something which I call TruthGPT. He described it as a maximum truth-seeking AI that cares about understanding the universe. Despite his involvement in the AI industry, Musks warning serves as a reminder of the potential dangers of uncontrolled AI development.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)




IDF soldiers and Border Guard officers carried out a counterterrorism operation in Jenin on Tuesday afternoon, arresting two ticking bomb terrorists planning an imminent significant attack.

According to Palestinian reports, the first forces were undercover Border Guard officers disguised as Arabs driving a produce truck.

Local Arabs began shooting at them and a heavy gun battle ensued. Six Palestinians were injured.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)




Russian President Vladimir Putin visited command posts of the Kremlins forces fighting in Ukraine, officials said Tuesday, as the war approaches its 14th month and Kyiv readies a possible counteroffensive with Western-supplied weapons.

A video released by the Kremlin and broadcast by Russian state television showed Putin arriving by helicopter at the command post of Russian forces in southern Ukraines Kherson province and then flying to the headquarters of the Russian National Guard in Luhansk province, which is in the east.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the visits took place Monday. The trip, Putins second in two months to Russian-occupied territory in Ukraine, represented an apparent attempt by the Russian leader to rally his troops and demonstrate his authority.

Dressed in a dark suit, Putin appeared to chair meetings with his military top brass during both of his stops. The locations of the military headquarters werent disclosed, making it impossible to assess how close they were to the front line. Nor was it possible to independently verify the authenticity of the video footage.

On Tuesday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made his latest trip to positions near the front line to stiffen the resolve of soldiers battling Putins troops. Zelenskyy visited units in Avdiivka, a city in Donetsk province where fierce battles are taking place, his office said. He heard first-hand reports about the battlefield situation and handed out awards.

Zelenskyys visits to areas of his country that have felt the brunt of Russias full-scale invasion gathered pace last month as he shuttled across the country, often by train. As with Putin, the Ukrainian leaders wartime trips usually arent publicized until after hes already left an area.

Russias war in Ukraine has become largely deadlocked amid heavy fighting in the east, particularly around the Donestk province city of Bakhmut, which for 8 months has been the stage for the longest and bloodiest battle so far.

Kherson and Luhansk, along with Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia provinces, were annexed illegally by Russia in September, following local referendums that Ukraine and the West denounced as shams. Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak was scathing in his criticism of Putins trip, accusing the Russian leader of degradation and being the author of mass murders in the war.

Both then and now, large parts of Donetsk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia, as well as some areas of Luhansk province, have remained under Ukrainian control. In November, Russian forces ceded territory in Kherson province, including the regions namesake capital.

In a parallel development, the Moscow-appointed governor of the occupied part of Donetsk province, Denis Pushilin, went to Minsk and won pledges of support from Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko, a Putin ally.

Analysts said Pushilins visit was likely approved by the Kremlin and sought to remind Kyiv about the possibility of Belarus joining Russia in the war.

The Kremlin forces Minsk to get involved in the war more actively in order to pressure Ukraine with threats of Belarus joining, said Belarusian political analyst Valery Karbalevich, in a telephone interview. It is clear that Pushilins visit to Minsk has been synchronized with Putins trip to the occupied Ukrainian regions and aims to show that the Belarusian threat hasnt gone away.

In both locations he visited, Putin congratulated the military divisions on Orthodox Easter, which was celebrated Sunday, and presented them with icons. Speaking to senior officers at the Kherson headquarters, Putin handed them a copy of an Orthodox icon he said belonged to a famous Russian general of the 19th century.

The senior officers present at the meetings reflected which ones were currently in favor with Putin. Col. Gen. Mikhail Teplinsky, the chief of Russias airborne troops, was among the top generals at the Kherson base.

Teplinsky, a career officer who rose from lieutenant to become the chief of the elite military branch, is known for being popular with his troops. However, last fall he was temporarily relieved of his position amid a spat with the top military brass.

He was restored to the job earlier this year, and his attendance at the meeting with Putin indicated that he was back in favor.

A senior officer who greeted Putin in the Luhansk region, Col. Gen. Alexander Lapin, was also relieved of his duties as the commanding officer of Russian troops in Ukraines northeast after he was blamed for a hasty Russian pullback from parts of Kharkiv province in the face of a Ukrainian counteroffensive in September.

He was later named as chief of staff of the ground forces, and his meeting with Putin on Tuesday signaled that Lapin had the presidents trust.

Putins trips to the military headquarters come as Ukraine is preparing for a new counteroffensive to reclaim the occupied territories. Last month, he visited the Russian-held port city of Mariupol, on the Sea of Azov, which was captured by Russian troops in May 2022 after two months of fierce fighting.

Ukrainian officials have said theyre buying time by depleting Russian forces in eastern Ukraine while preparing for a counteroffensive. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has argued that if Russia wins the battle for Bakhmut, it could allow Putin to begin building international support for a deal that would require Ukraine to make unacceptable compromises to end the war.

Oleksiy Danilov, the secretary of Ukraines National Security and Defense Council, told The Associated Press in an interview in Kyiv that Ukraines allies were helping the government to assemble the materiel needed to launch a counteroffensive, including heavy armored vehicles and ammunition.

Meanwhile, at least three civilians were killed and 11 were wounded in Ukraine between Monday and Tuesday, according to the Ukrainian presidents office. Most of the casualties occurred in the Donbas, that eastern region made up of Luhansk and Donetsk provinces, the office said. Six people were wounded in artillery fire in Kherson city, where a market area was hit.

(AP)
Axcient

DENVER, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Axcient, the leader in business availability software for Managed Service Providers (MSPs), today announced that in Q1 2023, the company achieved record-breaking growth, delivered significant product updates, and added new executive leaders.



As the industry evolves and partner needs change, Axcient is at the forefront with our innovative technology, MSP-focused business model, and consistent execution, said Rod Mathews, Chief Executive Officer at Axcient. We are expanding our team with incredibly talented people, and MSPs are increasingly choosing Axcient as their business continuity and disaster recovery partner. I want to thank the entire Axcient team and our partners for delivering record-breaking results in Q1, and we look forward to even more success in the remainder of 2023.

Record-Breaking Growth

Axcient continued its momentum from 2022 with revenue growth in Q1 2023 of over 20% year-over-year. Quarterly bookings also grew at a record pace, up 48% year-over-year. Today, over 3,700 MSPs are standardizing on Axcients channel-centric Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery (BCDR) solutions to increase data security, reduce business downtime, and boost profitability.

Product Innovation

Axcient delivered significant product updates in Q1 2023, expanding Operating System (OS) support, adding features, and improving user experience.

Expanded Linux Support

Axcient x360Recovers Linux agent was released for Ubuntu and Debian systems. This early access release supports file-level recoveries for both Appliance-Based and Direct-to-Cloud versions of x360Recover. Capabilities today include backup of Linux endpoints, with additional recovery capabilities to be added in the coming months.

Automated Backup Verification

Axcients AutoVerify feature has expanded capabilities for x360Recover Direct-to-Cloud, including an early access release of Advanced health checks. Previously available only in the Appliance-Based version, Advanced checks validate the recoverability of backup snapshots, ensuring rapid and reliable recovery when needed. AutoVerify can also alert users about backup inconsistencies, initiate self-healing, and provide telemetry data to Support for rapid problem resolution. Features like AutoVerify, Virtual Office, and AirGap allow Axcient partners to automate processes and get improved results like faster recoveries, increased security, and greater efficiency.

Story continues

Portal Expansion

Axcients x360Portal has been redesigned for easier navigation and improved user experience. A new hardware ordering system allows partners to order appliances directly from the portal through intuitive wizards, eliminating the need for a separate licensing portal. An improved Learning Management System (LMS) enables easier access to Axcients training content through the portal. The Axcient product roadmap is now accessible from the portal dashboard, enabling partners to provide feedback and feature requests.

Greater Management Speed

The x360Recover Manager has been redesigned for easier navigation and better performance, with loading times reduced in many cases by over 20x.

Executive Leadership Additions

In the last eight months, Axcient has recruited best-in-class talent to its executive leadership team led by CEO Rod Mathews, an IT industry veteran with a deep understanding of the data protection space and the MSP community. In Q1 2023, Axcient announced the appointment of Madhu Rawat as the Senior Vice President (SVP) of Engineering, the promotion of Tim Sheahen to SVP of Global Sales, Vice President (VP) of Technical Support Rob Haggerty, and a new VP of People, Nancy Gutwein.

Industry Accolades

Axcient has been recognized with more than 17 awards in the last six months, including being named one of the industrys Coolest Cloud Companies, a leading spot on the Storage 100 list, a perfect score for the Axcient Partner Program, a Backup and Disaster Recovery Innovation Award for x360Recover, and more.

To become an Axcient partner today, please visit www.axcient.com.

About Axcient

Axcient is an award-winning leader in business availability software for Managed Service Providers (MSPs). Axcient x360 empowers MSPs to Protect Everything by combining SaaS Backup, BCDR, and secure File Sync & Share into one platform and experience. Trusted by MSPs worldwide, Axcient protects business data and enables continuity from events such as security breaches, ransomware, human error, and natural disasters. For more information, visit www.axcient.com.

Media Contact

Amanda Lee

ARL Strategic Communications for Axcient

Amanda.lee@arlpr.com








As an ambassador for rats, its never easy to win over the public. Theres that hairless tail after all.

But Runa at the San Diego Zoo is doing her best to counter the bad press. She is one of a handful of such so-called ambassadors showing off the virtues of rats at three U.S. zoos. The rats were provided by a Tanzania-based organization that is training African giant pouched rats to combat wildlife trafficking, detect diseases and perform other useful tasks.

At least twice the size of the common brown rats found in cities, African giant pouched rats like Runa are best known for ferreting out landmines and other explosive material on old battlefields in Angola, Mozambique and Cambodia, earning them the nickname hero-rats. Efforts are underway to expand the use of their keen sense of smell to finding people trapped in collapsed buildings, detecting diseases in laboratory samples and alerting officials to illegal goods at ports and airports.

Six African rats completed their first trial working in the field in March, spending a month at a port in Tanzania where they were tasked with detecting smuggled goods, including Pangolins. The scaly anteater is coveted by poachers and is among the most trafficked animals in the world. Its meat is considered a delicacy in Vietnam and some parts of China, and its scales are used in traditional Chinese medicine.

Wildlife contraband is concealed among vast numbers of shipping containers that annually leave Dar es Salaam in Tanzania and other African ports.

Runa initially was trained to find landmines, but she often got distracted on the job. She has been excelling, however, as an ambassador, said Cari Inserra, lead wildlife care specialist at the San Diego Zoo.

On a recent day, her trainers hid small vessels of chamomile tea under the dirt in a box. As soon as she was released from her cage, Runas tiny nose was abuzz with twitching as she set out to work. Within seconds she had found all the vessels, and was racing over to suck on a syringe filled with a pellet-and-banana smoothie.

One of the most fun things to see is how she changes the perceptions of people, Inserra said.

Nicki Boyd, of the San Diego Zoo and Wildlife Alliance, said rats offer an important tool to combat wildlife trafficking, which the zoo wants to highlight since the illegal animal trade is very destructive to the species that we are actively trying to save and protect in the wild.

I do think there is the ability to scale this up, she said.

But rats still have a ways to go in winning over everyone. Last week, New York Mayor Eric Adams introduced Kathleen Corradi, a former elementary school teacher and anti-rat activist, as his new rat czar whose job is to battle potentially millions of rats lurking about the city.

The citys help-wanted ad for the post stated it was seeking applicants who are bloodthirsty, possess killer instincts and could commit to the wholesale slaughter of rats. At her first news conference in her job, Corradi, standing next to Adams, stated her hatred of rats and vowed to use science to rid the city of them.

Rats can spread disease like leptospirosis, which on rare occasions can lead to meningitis and cause the kidneys and liver to fail.

Izzy Szott, a behavioral research scientist at the Tanzania-based organization APOPO, which is training the rats to work for governments, said she was not surprised to hear rats had been named enemy No. 1, but she wants people to know the full picture. Her hope is having ambassador rats at renowned zoos, like San Diegos, will lead to more understanding and support for rat research.

New York City spokesman Fabien Levy called his citys rats dirty, diseased and a public health risk that the city is intent on ridding itself of using humane techniques where possible. But he added: Our priority remains our citys residents, not its rodents.

Rats in general, Szott said, actually are quite clean animals, adding that they groom themselves constantly and often affectionately lick their trainers arms after getting a good scratching.

Szott said rats often get a bad rap, but that its important to consider our responsibility towards the wildlife around us and that we share the planet with.

We need to understand the capabilities that these animals have and see them in a humane way and treat them in a humane way, she added.

African giant pouched rats have sniffed out more than 150,000 landmines to date, according to her organization. Theyve also helped health clinics in Africa diagnose people with tuberculosis, detecting the bacteria in the sputum samples of 25,000 patients.

At their facility in Morogoro, Tanzania, Szott and the other researchers are also working on training the rats to someday aid in the detection of contaminated soil or help rescuers in finding people trapped under the rubble after earthquakes and explosions. The rats, which can be dispatched into hard-to-reach areas, have been outfitted with tiny vests with a pendant they can pull to send an alert to their handlers when they find a person. So far they have succeeded in alerting their handler when given such a task in a mock disaster setting, Szott said.

And Szott said she believes someday they could be a regular fixture at some ports and airports, offering a cheaper option to drug-and-explosive-sniffing dogs. One of her programs rats has already shown they can sniff out multiple species, she said, adding that they could be used to stop the trafficking of elephant ivory and rhino horn.

New York Citys common brown rats share the same traits, but their shorter lifespan makes them unlikely candidates for such trainings, Szott said. African rats can live up to a decade whereas small brown rats only live for a few years.

We think they make great zoo additions, she said of the African rats, adding that the ambassadors will broaden peoples understanding of just how smart they are and how we can co-exist with them.

(AP)
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How can one choose his shirt from a pile of different types of clothing and not transgress borer on Shabbos?

What does one do if there is a power outage on Shabbos?

Can someone put food in the oven on Shabbos?

These and numerous other questions are impossible to answer unless one has a thorough knowledge of the laws of Shabbos. Shabbos comes about once a week, so if a person is not well-versed in its intricacies, then it is inevitable that transgressions will take place. It is wonderful to read one of the many books that give basic laws, but to really understand the halachos and know how to apply them, it is essential to learn Hilchos Shabbos with the background discussion of the Gemara and commentators.

What is the challenge we face? It takes several years for a full-time advanced Torah learner to cover the laws of Shabbos in depth, so how can a working man, or one with less advanced skills, begin this seemingly daunting task?

Now there is a solution. World famous Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav HaGaon Yitzchak Berkovits shlita used his vast knowledge to arrange all the Gemaras with the commentators on each area of Hilchos Shabbos and presented it in the form of source sheets that cover material from the Gemara until practical halacha. This enables one to cover main opinions in each topic and gain a deep understanding of the halacha.

According to Rabbi Berkovits: Learning Hilchos Shabbos from the traditional sources could be quite confusing or complicated. Studying them in a very organized way gives you the clarity, the clarity to understand them in the first place and the clarity to retain the information.

This was done for full-time Torah learners who have advanced Hebrew skills and can devote many hours each day to learn. What about busy working Bnei Torah who have limited time to learn but want to properly master Hilchos Shabbos? Or people who are still building up their Gemara skills but want to learn the Gemara sugyas and Halacha?

Rabbi Yehonasan Gefen, a close talmid of Rav Berkovits who spent eight years as a Rosh Chaburah in Rav Berkovitss famous Jerusalem Kollel, with the Ravs haskama, took on the monumental task of adapting the Hebrew sheets into English. The material is written with care and with great clarity, as well as including the various opinions in the contemporary practical halacha.

For the past several years, Rabbi Gefen has been teaching this material to Torah learners throughout the world, on all levels of learning, and of all ages now as the founder of KinyanHilchosShabbos.com. Participants in each online chabura receive source sheets with explanations both in Hebrew and English, participate in a weekly Zoom shiur and ask questions by phone and email. Many have also successfully gained Smicha through thoroughly learning the material.

I would love to sit in Yeshiva half a day, but I have different hours. Says Dr. Eric Leibowitz who is a dentist in Brooklyn. Learning Hilchos Shabbos in Rabbi Gefens online chabura allowed for the flexibility I needed. Id always do Daf Yomi for many years, but always off and on. I was looking for something with some structure and with an end goal. This program enabled me to not only learn, but to retain what I learned in a structured way and the tests were very helpful. I felt like I accomplished something, I made a kinyan on something.

Over one thousand past and present participants in our online programs come from five continents and range from working Bnei Torah to full-time Kollel avreichim from Yerushalayim and Lakewood, as well as people who are still developing their Gemara skills, says Rabbi Dr. Yakov Pesah, director of the program and also a musmach of Rabbi Berkovits. Our vision is to enable Bnei Torah to learn halacha in a structured way and make it doable for any motivated person.

The program includes a weekly Zoom shiur which is recorded and can be reviewed later, tests on the material covered to enable the individual to evaluate their understanding of the material, and availability by email or phone for questions, clarifications, or further discussions.

Rabbi Gefen ran the Hilchos Shabbos program for our Kollel in Johannesburg. We achieved tremendous clarity on Hilchos Shabbos both in sugyas and in psak which is what you want when you learn Halacha. Says Rabbi Micha Kaplan who is an avrech in the Maharsha Community Kollel in Johannesburg and the Menahel of the Maharsha Boys High School.

The program includes the option of Smicha which is a wonderful source of pride for the individuals family. But its greatest benefit is that it will ensure that a person can lead his family to observing the laws of Shabbos with all their details.

Shlomo Gross who is originally from London and is a lawyer in Yerushalayim shares his experience: For people like me who are working full-time, this program was ideal. I benchmarked the Hilchos Shabbat coourse against the syllabus required for the Smicha exams of the Rabbanut and found that it was at least as comprehensive The Hilchos Shabbat Smicha course transported my learning to a completely different level.

Rabbi Berkovits adds: Theres a mitzva of Zachor es yom HaShabbos lkadsho  that mitzva is to remember Shabbos all the time. There is nothing like being involved in Hilchos Shabbos the whole week  your whole week is different and your Shabbos is different.

The new cycle of the Kinyhan Hilchos Shabbos program is starting on April 30th. For more information, tuition, and to receive an application visit KinyanHilchosShabbos.com.
Here is everything you need to know about the future of energy bill pricing

Here is everything you need to know about the future of energy bill pricing

But MoneySupermarket thinks that cannot happen until at least 2024

But MoneySupermarket thinks that cannot happen until at least 2024

Cheap energy deals could return within the next months, the Government says

Cheap energy deals could return within the next months, the Government says

Cheaper energy bills could be back by this summer, the Government says, offering hope to millions struggling with 2,500-a-year tariffs.

Energy bills could start to 'drift down' within the next three months, energy security secretary Grant Shapps told The Times today.

Part of the reason households are stuck paying such high energy prices is there are no cheap fixed-rate deals.

These all dried up when energy prices started rising in October 2021, and now more than 80 per cent of homes are on expensive variable-rate deals.

But Shapps said cheaper deals could make a comeback soon, and added: 'I think people will start to be able to shop around in the next few months again.'

Cooling down: Cheaper energy deals could make a comeback this year, the Government thinks

However, energy prices will not be back to normal until at least this winter, Shapps went on.

But price comparison website MoneySupermarket today predicted there would not be a 'significant energy switching market' for the rest of this year.

Last month Ovo launched a fixed-rate deal at 2,275 a year, but only for existing customers.

Without cheap fixed-rate energy deals, customers are at the mercy of bills dictated by the Ofgem price cap.

The good news is that is predicted to fall this year, but the bad news is it is still set to remain high.

Here is everything you need to know about the future of energy bills, when prices might start to fall and all the help available.

What is the Government doing about high energy bills?

The main current Government help for households is the Energy Price Guarantee.

This caps average energy bills at 2,500 a year, which protects households from the 3,280 bills they would pay otherwise.

That is because 3,280 is the level of the price cap set by regulator Ofgem, which limits how much the typical home pays for gas and electricity on a variable-rate tariff and paying by direct debit.

We explain what is happening to the Ofgem price cap, the Government's guarantee and energy prices, and what that all means for household bills.

Ofgem price cap falls - but that's not what you will pay

Energy regulator Ofgem had announced that its energy price cap fell from 4,279 to 3,280 for the average household on April 1.

That price cap effectively sets energy bills for more than 80 per cent of homes that are on variable-rate tariffs and pay by direct debit. The 999 price cap drop happened because of a fall in the wholesale price of gas.

However, at the moment the Ofgem price cap is meaningless to most households.

That is because the Government has effectively been paying for part of all our energy bills due to its Energy Price Guarantee. That limits bills to 2,500 a year.

That was due to rise to 3,000 a year from April 1, but will now remain at 2,500 for a further three months until the end of June.

For households, that means no change to energy bills until July.

Fortunately, this is when the price cap is predicted to fall - and bills should too.

Energy experts at Cornwall Insight believe the Ofgem price cap will be cut to to 2,112 a year for the July to September 2023 period, then rise slightly to 2,118 for the remaining three months of 2023.

If the price cap falls below the Energy Price Guarantee, households on standard variable tariffs will shift to that lower rate.

Meanwhile, a separate forecast delivered an even more optimistic outlook, with Investec suggesting an energy price cap at 1,981 a year from July.

Energy bills could fall sharply this summer, saving families the equivalent of 500 a year, according to new analysis by Investec

Why are energy bills so high? Since coming out of the pandemic demand for gas has gone through the roof, but supply has struggled to catch up. It has sent prices soaring and pushed up the cost of gas and electricity for both households and businesses. This has been compounded by Russia's invasion of Ukraine which has led to a squeeze on gas supplies across Europe and seen analysts predict a cold winter could lead to blackouts and energy rationing.

What will happen to energy bill prices next year?

That is so far ahead that even energy experts will not take a wild guess.

The Government's 3,000 Energy Price Guarantee will last until April 2024.

The Government has no plans to extend it past that point, meaning households will have to pay full energy bills from next April onwards.

When will energy bills go back to normal?

Whether energy bills are 2,000, 3,000 or 4,000 a year, they are still massive compared to the 600-800 yearly bills most homes paid for energy pre-2021.

The big question for many billpayers is when energy bills will go back to normal.

Sadly, that might not happen for years.

Cornwall Insight have said energy prices might not go back to normal until the end of the decade.

Elsewhere, energy experts at Auxilione think energy bills will not drop below 1,000 a year for the forseeable future.

The Government has said there will be no repeat of the current 400 per household energy bill rebate, which is paid in monthly installments and due to end in March 2023.
THG losses nearly quadrupled last year after sales growth slowed significantly and administrative costs soared.

Matt Moulding's e-commerce retailer declared a 540million loss for 2022 on Tuesday, against a 138million loss the previous year, reflecting impairment charges of 270million within its beauty and technology segments.

THG shares fell back sharply, paring back gains achieved on Monday following news that the group was the subject of a highly preliminary and non-binding indicative' takeover proposal from Apollo Global Management.

Results: A day after confirming it was the subject of a takeover approach, e-commerce retailer THG declared a 540million loss for 2022, against a 138million loss the previous year

THG told investors that outgoings were accelerated by 'unusually high' commodity prices, particularly whey, as well as takeover costs and rising depreciation costs related to investment in new warehouses.

Though the group partially mitigated these extra outlays with price hikes, margins were impacted by maintaining prices in its nutrition business at reasonable levels.

Total revenue grew by 2.7 per cent to 2.24billion, partially reflecting tough comparative periods the prior year when Covid-19 rules meant customers could not buy many products in stores.

For the first quarter of 2023, THG's turnover slumped by 8.6 per cent, largely due to a weaker performance from its beauty division.

THG shares were 19.4 per cent lower at 77.2p just before trading ended on Tuesday afternoon, having soared by almost half on Monday.

It follows a troublesome two years for THG, which owns the Dermstore, Cult Beauty and Myprotein brands, as it has grappled with corporate governance concerns, a slowdown in online shopping and pressure from short-sellers.

Since listing on the London Stock Exchange in September 2020, its share price has plummeted by more than 80 per cent, making it a ripe target for an acquisition bid.

THG's co-founder and chief executive Moulding has said the listing was 'not an experience I'd recommend to anyone' but has rejected any takeover approaches so far for the firm.

In April 2022, the Burnley-born boss said THG had received some 'unacceptable' offers from third parties that did not 'reflect the fair value of the group'.

Julie Palmer, a partner at corporate restructuring specialist Begbies Traynor, said: 'THG was a lockdown darling thanks to booming online retail but adjusting to a normalising world has proved a painful process for the business.'

She added: 'THG founder Matt Moulding has made no secret of his dislike of life as a listed business and the controls it brings.

'Should Apollo's approach turn into a firm offer, then it could be a relief not only for him but also THG's long-suffering shareholders.'

Apollo's interest in the retailer comes amid a frenzy of foreign interest in British public companies, which are seen as relative bargains when measured against their US counterparts.

After turning down four previous proposals, John Wood Group has agreed to have discussions with Apollo after the latter made a 1.7billion approach for the oilfield services provider.

Veterinary products maker Dechra Pharmaceuticals, property fund Industrial REIT, and payment services provider Network International are also currently targets of potential takeovers.

Among the firms that have fallen into overseas ownership over the last year are fashion seller Ted Baker, repairs specialist Homeserve, and tech firm Aveva, which was bought by French conglomerate Schneider Electric.
Manulife Financial Co. (TSE:MFC  Get Rating) (NYSE:MFC)  Equities researchers at Zacks Research upped their FY2025 earnings per share (EPS) estimates for Manulife Financial in a research note issued to investors on Friday, April 14th. Zacks Research analyst D. Chatterjee now anticipates that the financial services provider will post earnings of $4.56 per share for the year, up from their previous forecast of $4.53. The consensus estimate for Manulife Financials current full-year earnings is $3.23 per share.

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MFC has been the topic of a number of other research reports. Barclays upped their target price on Manulife Financial from C$30.00 to C$31.00 in a research note on Monday, February 27th. Royal Bank of Canada increased their price objective on Manulife Financial from C$26.00 to C$28.00 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a research note on Friday, February 17th. CSFB increased their price objective on Manulife Financial from C$27.00 to C$28.00 in a research note on Friday, February 17th. CIBC increased their price objective on Manulife Financial from C$23.00 to C$27.00 in a research note on Wednesday, January 25th. Finally, Cormark increased their price objective on Manulife Financial from C$25.00 to C$27.00 in a research note on Monday, January 23rd. Seven equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, two have given a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of C$27.50.

Manulife Financial Trading Up 0.8 %

Manulife Financial Increases Dividend

MFC opened at C$25.82 on Monday. The stock has a market cap of C$47.77 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 7.02, a P/E/G ratio of 1.09 and a beta of 1.11. The stocks 50 day moving average price is C$25.75 and its 200-day moving average price is C$24.46. Manulife Financial has a one year low of C$20.81 and a one year high of C$27.50. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 43.99, a quick ratio of 2.58 and a current ratio of 4.70.

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, March 20th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, February 28th were issued a dividend of $0.365 per share. This represents a $1.46 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 5.65%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, February 27th. This is a positive change from Manulife Financials previous quarterly dividend of $0.33. Manulife Financials dividend payout ratio is currently 39.67%.

Insider Activity

In other news, Director Marianne Harrison sold 36,995 shares of the stock in a transaction on Friday, February 17th. The stock was sold at an average price of C$26.78, for a total transaction of C$990,607.72. In related news, Director Donald Richard Lindsay purchased 50,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Thursday, March 9th. The shares were bought at an average cost of C$26.64 per share, with a total value of C$1,332,005.00. Also, Director Marianne Harrison sold 36,995 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, February 17th. The stock was sold at an average price of C$26.78, for a total value of C$990,607.72. Company insiders own 0.02% of the companys stock.

Manulife Financial Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Manulife Financial Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, provides financial products and services in Asia, Canada, the United States, and internationally. The company operates through Wealth and Asset Management Businesses; Insurance and Annuity Products; And Corporate and Other segments. The Wealth and Asset Management Businesses segment provides mutual funds and exchange-traded funds, group retirement and savings products, and institutional asset management services through agents and brokers affiliated with the company, securities brokerage firms, and financial advisors pension plan consultants and banks.

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STAG Industrial, Inc. (NYSE:STAG  Get Rating)  Research analysts at Jefferies Financial Group upped their Q1 2024 earnings per share (EPS) estimates for STAG Industrial in a note issued to investors on Friday, April 14th. Jefferies Financial Group analyst J. Petersen now expects that the real estate investment trust will earn $0.57 per share for the quarter, up from their prior estimate of $0.56. The consensus estimate for STAG Industrials current full-year earnings is $2.24 per share. Jefferies Financial Group also issued estimates for STAG Industrials Q2 2024 earnings at $0.58 EPS, Q3 2024 earnings at $0.60 EPS, Q4 2024 earnings at $0.60 EPS, FY2024 earnings at $2.35 EPS, Q1 2025 earnings at $0.59 EPS and FY2026 earnings at $2.41 EPS.

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STAG has been the subject of a number of other reports. StockNews.com initiated coverage on STAG Industrial in a research note on Thursday, March 16th. They issued a hold rating for the company. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their target price on STAG Industrial from $34.00 to $36.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Thursday, February 23rd. Finally, BMO Capital Markets initiated coverage on STAG Industrial in a report on Monday, February 6th. They issued an outperform rating and a $41.00 price target on the stock. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and four have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, STAG Industrial has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $37.83.

STAG Industrial Stock Performance

STAG Industrial Increases Dividend

Shares of NYSE STAG opened at $33.16 on Monday. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $33.56 and a 200 day simple moving average of $32.73. The company has a current ratio of 1.45, a quick ratio of 1.45 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.72. The firm has a market capitalization of $5.95 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 33.16, a PEG ratio of 4.90 and a beta of 1.02. STAG Industrial has a one year low of $26.56 and a one year high of $42.49.

The business also recently announced a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, May 15th. Shareholders of record on Friday, April 28th will be paid a $0.123 dividend. This is a positive change from STAG Industrials previous monthly dividend of $0.12. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, April 27th. This represents a $1.48 annualized dividend and a yield of 4.45%. STAG Industrials dividend payout ratio is presently 147.00%.

Insider Buying and Selling at STAG Industrial

In other news, insider Benjamin S. Butcher sold 19,923 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, February 22nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $34.69, for a total transaction of $691,128.87. Following the sale, the insider now owns 7,088 shares of the companys stock, valued at $245,882.72. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. In related news, Director Virgis Colbert sold 23,911 shares of STAG Industrial stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, March 10th. The stock was sold at an average price of $31.82, for a total value of $760,848.02. Following the sale, the director now owns 17,017 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $541,480.94. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link. Also, insider Benjamin S. Butcher sold 19,923 shares of STAG Industrial stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, February 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $34.69, for a total value of $691,128.87. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now directly owns 7,088 shares in the company, valued at approximately $245,882.72. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders own 1.10% of the companys stock.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On STAG Industrial

Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the company. Natixis Advisors L.P. raised its position in STAG Industrial by 1,263.6% in the 4th quarter. Natixis Advisors L.P. now owns 212,119 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $6,853,000 after buying an additional 196,563 shares during the last quarter. Bessemer Group Inc. grew its stake in STAG Industrial by 43.7% in the third quarter. Bessemer Group Inc. now owns 312,724 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $8,891,000 after purchasing an additional 95,113 shares in the last quarter. IFP Advisors Inc grew its stake in STAG Industrial by 87.7% in the third quarter. IFP Advisors Inc now owns 3,457 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $101,000 after purchasing an additional 1,615 shares in the last quarter. Endurance Wealth Management Inc. grew its stake in STAG Industrial by 3.0% in the third quarter. Endurance Wealth Management Inc. now owns 297,786 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $8,466,000 after purchasing an additional 8,616 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Oppenheimer Asset Management Inc. grew its stake in STAG Industrial by 4.0% in the third quarter. Oppenheimer Asset Management Inc. now owns 78,351 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $2,228,000 after purchasing an additional 2,989 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 85.21% of the companys stock.

About STAG Industrial

(Get Rating)

STAG Industrial, Inc is a real estate investment trust, which focuses on acquisition, ownership and operation of single-tenant, industrial properties throughout the United States. The company was founded by Benjamin S. Butcher on July 21, 2010 and is headquartered in Boston, MA.

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Adams Diversified Equity Fund (NYSE:ADX  Get Rating) and Goldman Sachs BDC (NYSE:GSBD  Get Rating) are both small-cap finance companies, but which is the better business? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their valuation, dividends, earnings, analyst recommendations, profitability, institutional ownership and risk.

Dividends

Adams Diversified Equity Fund pays an annual dividend of $1.07 per share and has a dividend yield of 6.8%. Goldman Sachs BDC pays an annual dividend of $1.80 per share and has a dividend yield of 13.0%. Goldman Sachs BDC pays out 339.6% of its earnings in the form of a dividend, suggesting it may not have sufficient earnings to cover its dividend payment in the future.

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Analyst Ratings

This is a breakdown of recent ratings and target prices for Adams Diversified Equity Fund and Goldman Sachs BDC, as provided by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Adams Diversified Equity Fund 0 0 0 0 N/A Goldman Sachs BDC 0 4 0 0 2.00

Profitability

Goldman Sachs BDC has a consensus price target of $16.25, suggesting a potential upside of 17.16%. Given Goldman Sachs BDCs higher probable upside, analysts clearly believe Goldman Sachs BDC is more favorable than Adams Diversified Equity Fund.

This table compares Adams Diversified Equity Fund and Goldman Sachs BDCs net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Adams Diversified Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A Goldman Sachs BDC 15.17% 14.31% 6.15%

Valuation & Earnings

This table compares Adams Diversified Equity Fund and Goldman Sachs BDCs top-line revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Adams Diversified Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Goldman Sachs BDC $357.45 million 4.25 $55.00 million $0.53 26.17

Goldman Sachs BDC has higher revenue and earnings than Adams Diversified Equity Fund.

Institutional & Insider Ownership

18.8% of Adams Diversified Equity Fund shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 28.4% of Goldman Sachs BDC shares are owned by institutional investors. 0.1% of Adams Diversified Equity Fund shares are owned by company insiders. Comparatively, 0.1% of Goldman Sachs BDC shares are owned by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that large money managers, endowments and hedge funds believe a company will outperform the market over the long term.

Volatility and Risk

Adams Diversified Equity Fund has a beta of 1.01, indicating that its share price is 1% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Goldman Sachs BDC has a beta of 1.19, indicating that its share price is 19% more volatile than the S&P 500.

Summary

Goldman Sachs BDC beats Adams Diversified Equity Fund on 9 of the 10 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Adams Diversified Equity Fund

(Get Rating)

The Adams Express Company (the Fund) is a diversified investment company. The Company is an internally-managed closed-end fund whose investment objectives are preservation of capital, the attainment of reasonable income from investments, and an opportunity for capital appreciation. In order to conduct the Companys business, the Company, through its transfer agent, American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, collects and maintains certain non-public personal information about its stockholders of record with respect to their transactions in shares of its securities. The Companys investments include common stocks and short-term investments.

About Goldman Sachs BDC

(Get Rating)

Goldman Sachs BDC, Inc. invests in middle market companies located in the US. The fund targets companies operating in the fields software, health technology information technology, commercial services and textiles with an investment size of $25 to $75 million and an EBITDA of $5 to $75 million. It provides financing in the form of senior secured debt, unitranche debt, junior secured, mezzanine debt and equity for acquisitions, refinancing, growth, LBOs, dividend recapitalization and restructuring transactions.

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Nippon Telegraph and Telephone (OTCMKTS:NTTYY  Get Rating) and Chorus (OTCMKTS:CHRYY  Get Rating) are both utilities companies, but which is the better business? We will contrast the two companies based on the strength of their institutional ownership, risk, analyst recommendations, profitability, dividends, earnings and valuation.

Earnings & Valuation

This table compares Nippon Telegraph and Telephone and Chorus top-line revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

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Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Nippon Telegraph and Telephone $108.29 billion 0.98 $10.51 billion $2.88 10.28 Chorus $658.50 million 3.56 $32.67 million N/A N/A

Nippon Telegraph and Telephone has higher revenue and earnings than Chorus.

Risk and Volatility

Profitability

Nippon Telegraph and Telephone has a beta of 0.17, indicating that its stock price is 83% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Chorus has a beta of 0.66, indicating that its stock price is 34% less volatile than the S&P 500.

This table compares Nippon Telegraph and Telephone and Chorus net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Nippon Telegraph and Telephone N/A N/A N/A Chorus N/A N/A N/A

Analyst Recommendations

This is a breakdown of current recommendations and price targets for Nippon Telegraph and Telephone and Chorus, as provided by MarketBeat.com.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Nippon Telegraph and Telephone 0 1 1 0 2.50 Chorus 0 0 0 0 N/A

Insider & Institutional Ownership

0.1% of Nippon Telegraph and Telephone shares are owned by institutional investors. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, large money managers and endowments believe a stock will outperform the market over the long term.

Dividends

Nippon Telegraph and Telephone pays an annual dividend of $0.70 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.4%. Chorus pays an annual dividend of $0.86 per share and has a dividend yield of 3.2%. Nippon Telegraph and Telephone pays out 24.3% of its earnings in the form of a dividend.

About Nippon Telegraph and Telephone

(Get Rating)

Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp. operates as a holding company which engages in the provision of telecommunication services. It operates through the following business divisions: Regional Communications, Long-Distance and International Communications, Mobile Communications, Data Communications, and Others. The Regional Communications division offers domestic intra-prefectural communication services such as fixed voice-related, Internet protocol (IP), and packet communications services; and sells telecommunications equipment. The Long Distance and International Communications division deals with the domestic intra-prefectural and international communications, and system integration services. The Mobile Communications division provides the mobile voice-related, IP, and packet communications services. The Data Communications division covers the system integration and network system services. The Other division engages in the real estate, finance, engineering, system integration and data processing services, and development of technologies and shared operations. The company was founded on August 1, 1952 and is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan.

About Chorus

(Get Rating)

Chorus Ltd. operates as a telecommunications infrastructure company. The firm engages in the provision of fixed line communications infrastructure services to retail service providers. It also offers nationwide network of fiber optic cables and copper cables that connect homes and businesses to each other and also provides backhaul and co-location services to retail service providers. The company was founded in March 2008 and is headquartered in Wellington, New Zealand.

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Kestra Private Wealth Services LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF (NYSEARCA:SPHQ  Get Rating) in the 4th quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The firm purchased 15,185 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $668,000.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of SPHQ. Gradient Investments LLC purchased a new position in shares of Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF in the third quarter worth $27,000. Private Trust Co. NA purchased a new stake in shares of Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF in the 2nd quarter worth $29,000. CWM LLC increased its stake in shares of Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF by 148.1% in the 3rd quarter. CWM LLC now owns 893 shares of the companys stock worth $35,000 after purchasing an additional 533 shares in the last quarter. Pinnacle Bancorp Inc. grew its stake in shares of Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF by 45.7% during the 4th quarter. Pinnacle Bancorp Inc. now owns 874 shares of the companys stock valued at $38,000 after acquiring an additional 274 shares during the period. Finally, Hazlett Burt & Watson Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF by 67.9% during the 4th quarter. Hazlett Burt & Watson Inc. now owns 1,029 shares of the companys stock valued at $45,000 after buying an additional 416 shares in the last quarter.

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Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF Trading Down 0.1 %

Shares of SPHQ opened at $47.76 on Tuesday. The businesss 50 day moving average is $46.23 and its 200 day moving average is $44.89. The company has a market capitalization of $4.72 billion, a PE ratio of 16.07 and a beta of 0.94. Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF has a 12-month low of $39.18 and a 12-month high of $50.09.

Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF Company Profile

The Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF (SPHQ) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the S&P 500 Quality index. The fund tracks an index of US large-cap stocks selected by return on equity, changes in net operating assets and financial leverage. Stocks are weighted by these quality factors, scaled by market cap.

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Want to see what other hedge funds are holding SPHQ? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Invesco S&P 500 Quality ETF (NYSEARCA:SPHQ  Get Rating).

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Janney Montgomery Scott LLC grew its stake in shares of The Progressive Co. (NYSE:PGR  Get Rating) by 1.3% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 99,977 shares of the insurance providers stock after buying an additional 1,266 shares during the period. Janney Montgomery Scott LLCs holdings in Progressive were worth $12,968,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in PGR. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its stake in Progressive by 1.1% during the third quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 49,886,303 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $5,797,287,000 after acquiring an additional 520,346 shares during the last quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD increased its position in Progressive by 7.2% during the 3rd quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 11,965,362 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $1,390,909,000 after purchasing an additional 806,366 shares in the last quarter. Artisan Partners Limited Partnership raised its holdings in Progressive by 0.7% in the third quarter. Artisan Partners Limited Partnership now owns 9,823,219 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $1,141,556,000 after buying an additional 66,243 shares during the period. Alliancebernstein L.P. lifted its position in Progressive by 6.2% during the third quarter. Alliancebernstein L.P. now owns 8,823,941 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $1,025,430,000 after buying an additional 518,665 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Bank of New York Mellon Corp grew its stake in Progressive by 15.0% during the third quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 6,142,690 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $713,841,000 after buying an additional 799,553 shares during the period. 83.19% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of brokerages have recently commented on PGR. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods raised their target price on shares of Progressive from $127.00 to $140.00 and gave the company a market perform rating in a research note on Friday, February 17th. Credit Suisse Group restated a neutral rating and set a $143.00 price objective on shares of Progressive in a research note on Friday. Barclays dropped their target price on Progressive from $123.00 to $121.00 and set an underweight rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, April 12th. Evercore ISI lowered their price objective on shares of Progressive from $167.00 to $163.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Friday. Finally, StockNews.com cut shares of Progressive from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday, April 8th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, six have given a hold rating and nine have given a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $148.20.

Progressive Stock Up 1.9 %

PGR stock opened at $138.41 on Tuesday. The firm has a market cap of $81.02 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 98.16, a PEG ratio of 0.87 and a beta of 0.50. The Progressive Co. has a 1-year low of $106.35 and a 1-year high of $149.87. The firm has a fifty day moving average price of $141.88 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $132.97. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.38, a current ratio of 0.40 and a quick ratio of 0.37.

Progressive (NYSE:PGR  Get Rating) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, January 25th. The insurance provider reported $1.50 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.49 by $0.01. Progressive had a net margin of 1.64% and a return on equity of 13.84%. The business had revenue of $13.54 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $13.33 billion. Research analysts predict that The Progressive Co. will post 6.27 EPS for the current year.

Progressive Dividend Announcement

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, April 14th. Investors of record on Thursday, April 6th were issued a $0.10 dividend. This represents a $0.40 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.29%. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, April 5th. Progressives dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 28.37%.

Insider Activity at Progressive

In other news, insider Steven Broz sold 930 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Monday, January 30th. The shares were sold at an average price of $135.50, for a total transaction of $126,015.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now owns 30,041 shares of the companys stock, valued at $4,070,555.50. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. In related news, insider Steven Broz sold 930 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, January 30th. The stock was sold at an average price of $135.50, for a total value of $126,015.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now directly owns 30,041 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $4,070,555.50. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. Also, insider Daniel P. Mascaro sold 2,806 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, March 24th. The shares were sold at an average price of $136.96, for a total value of $384,309.76. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now owns 33,276 shares in the company, valued at $4,557,480.96. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold 22,987 shares of company stock worth $3,250,378 in the last 90 days. 0.33% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Progressive Profile

(Get Rating)

Progressive Corp. is an insurance holding company, which engages in the provision of personal and commercial auto insurance, residential property insurance, and other specialty property-casualty insurance and related services. It operates through the following segments: Personal Lines, Commercial Lines, and Property.

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Ayr Wellness Inc.

MIAMI, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AYR Wellness Inc. (CSE: AYR.A, OTCQX: AYRWF) (AYR or the Company), a leading vertically integrated U.S. multi-state cannabis operator (MSO), will hold a conference call on Tuesday, May 16, 2023 at 8:30 a.m. ET to discuss its results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2023.



AYR President & CEO David Goubert and CFO Brad Asher will host the conference call, followed by a question-and-answer period. The Company will provide its financial results in a press release prior to the call.

Date: Tuesday, May 16, 2023

Time: 8:30 a.m. ET

Toll-free dial-in number: (800) 319-4610

International dial-in number: (604) 638-5340

Conference ID: 10021727

Webcast: https://services.choruscall.ca/links/ayrwellness2023q1.html

A telephonic replay of the conference call will also be available for one month beginning at 11:30 a.m. ET on Tuesday, May 16, 2023.

Toll-free replay number: (855) 669-9658

International replay number: (412) 317-0088

Replay ID: 0092

Please dial into the conference call 5-10 minutes prior to the start time. An operator will register your name and organization. If you have any difficulty connecting with the conference call, please contact the companys investor relations team at IR@ayrwellness.com.

About AYR Wellness Inc.

AYR is an expanding vertically integrated, U.S. multi-state cannabis operator. Based on the belief that everything starts with the quality of the plant, the Companys mission is to cultivate the finest quality cannabis at scale and deliver remarkable experiences to its customers every day.

AYRs leadership team brings proven expertise in growing successful businesses through disciplined operational and financial management, and is committed to driving positive impact for customers, employees and the communities they serve. For more information, please visit www.AYRwellness.com.

Company/Media Contact:

Robert Vanisko

VP, Public Engagement

T: (786) 885-0397

Email: robert.vanisko@AYRwellness.com

Story continues

Investor Relations Contact:

Sean Mansouri, CFA

Elevate IR

T: (786) 885-0397

Email: IR@AYRwellness.com




Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (NYSE:AJG  Get Rating) had its target price raised by equities researchers at Citigroup from $228.00 to $232.00 in a research report issued on Tuesday, The Fly reports. Citigroups price target suggests a potential upside of 14.17% from the companys previous close.

A number of other research firms have also recently weighed in on AJG. Wells Fargo & Company upped their target price on shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. from $215.00 to $233.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Friday, January 27th. BMO Capital Markets started coverage on shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. in a research report on Thursday, January 19th. They issued an outperform rating and a $211.00 price target on the stock. Piper Sandler boosted their price target on shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. from $195.00 to $215.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Friday, January 27th. Truist Financial upped their target price on shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. from $220.00 to $230.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Monday, January 30th. Finally, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods reduced their target price on shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. from $213.00 to $211.00 and set a market perform rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, March 17th. Five investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, eight have given a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $214.00.

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Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Stock Up 1.4 %

AJG stock opened at $203.21 on Tuesday. The company has a current ratio of 1.04, a quick ratio of 1.04 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.61. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. has a 1 year low of $148.24 and a 1 year high of $203.25. The company has a fifty day simple moving average of $189.28 and a 200 day simple moving average of $188.85. The firm has a market cap of $43.42 billion, a PE ratio of 39.08, a PEG ratio of 2.07 and a beta of 0.69.

Insider Transactions at Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. ( NYSE:AJG Get Rating ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, January 26th. The financial services provider reported $1.54 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.50 by $0.04. The company had revenue of $2 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.96 billion. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. had a net margin of 13.08% and a return on equity of 18.64%. The businesss revenue was up 2.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $0.98 EPS. Sell-side analysts anticipate that Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. will post 8.72 EPS for the current fiscal year.

In related news, CFO Douglas K. Howell sold 2,850 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Friday, March 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of $180.98, for a total transaction of $515,793.00. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer now directly owns 90,715 shares of the companys stock, valued at $16,417,600.70. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. In related news, CFO Douglas K. Howell sold 2,850 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Friday, March 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of $180.98, for a total transaction of $515,793.00. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer now directly owns 90,715 shares of the companys stock, valued at $16,417,600.70. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. Also, VP Scott R. Hudson sold 18,700 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Monday, March 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of $190.66, for a total transaction of $3,565,342.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the vice president now directly owns 42,231 shares in the company, valued at $8,051,762.46. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last 90 days, insiders sold 27,783 shares of company stock worth $5,262,891. 1.40% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.

A number of hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. U.S. Capital Wealth Advisors LLC boosted its position in Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. by 7.5% during the 1st quarter. U.S. Capital Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 1,287 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $225,000 after buying an additional 90 shares during the period. Canada Pension Plan Investment Board boosted its position in Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. by 49.0% during the 1st quarter. Canada Pension Plan Investment Board now owns 5,300 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $925,000 after buying an additional 1,744 shares during the period. Prudential PLC acquired a new stake in Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. during the 1st quarter worth approximately $838,000. Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC boosted its position in Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. by 37.7% during the 1st quarter. Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC now owns 2,532 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $442,000 after buying an additional 693 shares during the period. Finally, Candriam Luxembourg S.C.A. boosted its position in Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. by 25.0% during the 1st quarter. Candriam Luxembourg S.C.A. now owns 11,184 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $1,953,000 after buying an additional 2,235 shares during the period. 82.07% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

About Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.

(Get Rating)

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co engages in the provision of insurance brokerage, consulting, and third-party claims settlement and administration services. It operates through the following business segments: Brokerage, Risk Management, and Corporate. The Brokerage segment consists of retail and wholesale insurance brokerage operations.

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NorthRock Partners LLC decreased its stake in Ford Motor (NYSE:F  Get Rating) by 38.8% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 33,406 shares of the auto manufacturers stock after selling 21,176 shares during the quarter. NorthRock Partners LLCs holdings in Ford Motor were worth $389,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. RB Capital Management LLC raised its position in shares of Ford Motor by 14.6% during the first quarter. RB Capital Management LLC now owns 27,339 shares of the auto manufacturers stock worth $462,000 after acquiring an additional 3,477 shares during the last quarter. Fairfield Bush & CO. bought a new stake in shares of Ford Motor during the first quarter worth $37,000. Synovus Financial Corp raised its position in shares of Ford Motor by 275.4% during the first quarter. Synovus Financial Corp now owns 111,481 shares of the auto manufacturers stock worth $1,886,000 after acquiring an additional 81,783 shares during the last quarter. Blair William & Co. IL increased its holdings in Ford Motor by 17.3% in the first quarter. Blair William & Co. IL now owns 325,778 shares of the auto manufacturers stock valued at $5,509,000 after purchasing an additional 47,959 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Canada Pension Plan Investment Board increased its holdings in Ford Motor by 3.0% in the first quarter. Canada Pension Plan Investment Board now owns 564,002 shares of the auto manufacturers stock valued at $9,537,000 after purchasing an additional 16,498 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 49.68% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of equities research analysts recently commented on the company. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft downgraded Ford Motor from a hold rating to a sell rating and dropped their price objective for the company from $13.00 to $11.00 in a report on Friday, February 3rd. JPMorgan Chase & Co. dropped their price objective on Ford Motor from $16.00 to $15.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, January 25th. Morgan Stanley dropped their price objective on Ford Motor from $15.00 to $14.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a report on Monday, February 6th. Tudor Pickering downgraded Ford Motor from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Wednesday, February 15th. Finally, Barclays began coverage on Ford Motor in a report on Tuesday, February 14th. They issued an equal weight rating and a $13.00 price objective for the company. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have assigned a hold rating and five have given a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $15.22.

Ford Motor Price Performance

F stock opened at $12.68 on Tuesday. The company has a quick ratio of 1.06, a current ratio of 1.20 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.06. The business has a 50-day moving average of $12.39 and a 200-day moving average of $12.65. Ford Motor has a fifty-two week low of $10.61 and a fifty-two week high of $16.68.

Ford Motor (NYSE:F  Get Rating) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, February 2nd. The auto manufacturer reported $0.51 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.60 by ($0.09). The firm had revenue of $41.80 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $40.73 billion. Ford Motor had a positive return on equity of 17.45% and a negative net margin of 1.25%. The firms quarterly revenue was up 18.4% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned $0.26 earnings per share. On average, equities analysts anticipate that Ford Motor will post 1.5 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Ford Motor Dividend Announcement

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, June 15th. Investors of record on Wednesday, April 26th will be given a dividend of $0.15 per share. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, April 25th. This represents a $0.60 annualized dividend and a yield of 4.73%. Ford Motors dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently -117.65%.

Insider Activity at Ford Motor

In related news, insider Ashwani Kumar Galhotra sold 24,850 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, March 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $13.01, for a total transaction of $323,298.50. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now directly owns 511,605 shares of the companys stock, valued at $6,655,981.05. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. In other Ford Motor news, insider Ashwani Kumar Galhotra sold 24,850 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, March 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $13.01, for a total value of $323,298.50. Following the sale, the insider now owns 511,605 shares in the company, valued at $6,655,981.05. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. Also, CEO James D. Farley, Jr. sold 79,921 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, March 3rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $12.86, for a total value of $1,027,784.06. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 1,638,667 shares in the company, valued at approximately $21,073,257.62. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last ninety days, insiders sold 134,592 shares of company stock valued at $1,740,843. Insiders own 0.80% of the companys stock.

Ford Motor Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Ford Motor Co engages in the manufacture, distribution, and sale of automobiles. It operates through the following segments: Ford Blue, Ford Model E, and Ford Pro, Ford Next, and Ford Credit. The Ford Blue, Ford Model E, and Ford Pro segment includes the sale of Ford and Lincoln vehicles, service parts, and accessories, together with the associated costs to develop, manufacture, distribute, and service the vehicles, parts, and accessories.

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State of New Jersey Common Pension Fund D reduced its position in IQVIA Holdings Inc. (NYSE:IQV  Get Rating) by 1.0% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 108,934 shares of the medical research companys stock after selling 1,062 shares during the period. State of New Jersey Common Pension Fund D owned 0.06% of IQVIA worth $22,319,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in IQV. Mitsubishi UFJ Kokusai Asset Management Co. Ltd. grew its stake in IQVIA by 1,170.9% in the third quarter. Mitsubishi UFJ Kokusai Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 1,364,641 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $247,191,000 after acquiring an additional 1,257,263 shares during the period. Alliancebernstein L.P. lifted its holdings in shares of IQVIA by 20.1% in the third quarter. Alliancebernstein L.P. now owns 5,157,158 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $934,167,000 after purchasing an additional 862,222 shares in the last quarter. Marshall Wace LLP lifted its holdings in shares of IQVIA by 570.5% in the third quarter. Marshall Wace LLP now owns 417,789 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $75,678,000 after purchasing an additional 355,482 shares in the last quarter. Sustainable Growth Advisers LP lifted its holdings in shares of IQVIA by 22.9% in the third quarter. Sustainable Growth Advisers LP now owns 1,404,015 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $254,324,000 after purchasing an additional 261,891 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Truist Financial Corp lifted its holdings in shares of IQVIA by 68.0% in the third quarter. Truist Financial Corp now owns 505,750 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $91,610,000 after purchasing an additional 204,769 shares in the last quarter. 86.20% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Insiders Place Their Bets

In other IQVIA news, insider Kevin C. Knightly sold 4,446 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Thursday, February 16th. The stock was sold at an average price of $225.61, for a total transaction of $1,003,062.06. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now directly owns 1,973 shares in the company, valued at $445,128.53. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. In other IQVIA news, insider Kevin C. Knightly sold 4,446 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Thursday, February 16th. The stock was sold at an average price of $225.61, for a total transaction of $1,003,062.06. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now directly owns 1,973 shares in the company, valued at $445,128.53. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, insider Eric Sherbet sold 1,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Tuesday, February 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of $230.00, for a total value of $230,000.00. Following the sale, the insider now owns 17,053 shares of the companys stock, valued at $3,922,190. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Corporate insiders own 1.50% of the companys stock.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

IQVIA Trading Up 1.1 %

A number of analysts have recently commented on IQV shares. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted their price target on IQVIA from $257.00 to $263.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Monday, February 27th. StockNews.com started coverage on IQVIA in a report on Thursday, March 16th. They set a hold rating on the stock. Credit Suisse Group reiterated an outperform rating and set a $265.00 target price on shares of IQVIA in a report on Monday, February 13th. Truist Financial began coverage on IQVIA in a research note on Friday, March 17th. They issued a buy rating and a $265.00 price objective on the stock. Finally, SVB Leerink restated an outperform rating on shares of IQVIA in a research note on Friday, January 27th. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twelve have issued a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $256.50.

Shares of NYSE:IQV opened at $202.62 on Tuesday. The company has a market capitalization of $37.72 billion, a P/E ratio of 35.49, a P/E/G ratio of 1.97 and a beta of 1.40. IQVIA Holdings Inc. has a 1 year low of $165.75 and a 1 year high of $249.11. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.18, a current ratio of 0.89 and a quick ratio of 0.89. The businesss 50 day simple moving average is $206.39 and its 200 day simple moving average is $207.49.

IQVIA (NYSE:IQV  Get Rating) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Friday, February 10th. The medical research company reported $2.78 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.76 by $0.02. IQVIA had a return on equity of 31.88% and a net margin of 7.57%. The business had revenue of $3.74 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $3.71 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business posted $2.42 earnings per share. The firms quarterly revenue was up 2.8% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, research analysts anticipate that IQVIA Holdings Inc. will post 9.46 EPS for the current fiscal year.

IQVIA Company Profile

(Get Rating)

IQVIA Holdings, Inc engages in the provision of analytics, technology solutions, and clinical research services to the life sciences industry. It operates through the following segments: Technology and Analytics Solutions, Research and Development Solutions, and Contract Sales and Medical Solutions. The Technology and Analytics Solutions segment supplies mission critical information, technology solutions, and real-world solutions and services to the firms life science clients.

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NorthRock Partners LLC lifted its stake in shares of Sempra Energy (NYSE:SRE  Get Rating) by 25.1% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 2,334 shares of the utilities providers stock after acquiring an additional 469 shares during the period. NorthRock Partners LLCs holdings in Sempra Energy were worth $361,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission.

Several other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of SRE. Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. raised its holdings in shares of Sempra Energy by 0.6% during the 1st quarter. Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. now owns 1,141,824 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $191,963,000 after acquiring an additional 6,246 shares during the period. Acadian Asset Management LLC raised its holdings in Sempra Energy by 780.0% in the 1st quarter. Acadian Asset Management LLC now owns 1,804 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $302,000 after buying an additional 1,599 shares during the period. Cibc World Market Inc. purchased a new stake in Sempra Energy in the 1st quarter valued at about $782,000. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP raised its holdings in Sempra Energy by 3.6% in the 1st quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP now owns 668,646 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $112,411,000 after buying an additional 23,431 shares during the period. Finally, Vontobel Holding Ltd. raised its holdings in Sempra Energy by 77.4% in the 1st quarter. Vontobel Holding Ltd. now owns 13,575 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $2,276,000 after buying an additional 5,924 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 84.75% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several analysts recently issued reports on the stock. Bank of America reduced their price objective on shares of Sempra Energy from $173.00 to $165.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, March 28th. BMO Capital Markets lowered their price objective on Sempra Energy from $169.00 to $166.00 and set a market perform rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, March 1st. Morgan Stanley lowered their price objective on Sempra Energy from $158.00 to $150.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, March 21st. Wells Fargo & Company lowered their price objective on Sempra Energy from $180.00 to $174.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, March 1st. Finally, StockNews.com started coverage on Sempra Energy in a research report on Thursday, March 16th. They set a hold rating for the company. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $167.50.

Insider Activity

Sempra Energy Stock Performance

In other news, CAO Karen L. Sedgwick sold 1,621 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Thursday, February 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $159.44, for a total value of $258,452.24. Following the completion of the sale, the chief accounting officer now owns 20,823 shares in the company, valued at $3,320,019.12. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this link . In other news, CAO Karen L. Sedgwick sold 1,621 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Thursday, February 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $159.44, for a total transaction of $258,452.24. Following the completion of the sale, the chief accounting officer now directly owns 20,823 shares of the companys stock, valued at $3,320,019.12. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website . Also, CFO Trevor I. Mihalik sold 2,306 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Wednesday, March 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $148.50, for a total value of $342,441.00. Following the sale, the chief financial officer now directly owns 21,362 shares of the companys stock, valued at $3,172,257. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . Insiders sold a total of 52,504 shares of company stock worth $8,045,547 over the last 90 days. 0.14% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Shares of SRE opened at $154.98 on Tuesday. Sempra Energy has a 52-week low of $136.54 and a 52-week high of $176.47. The firm has a market cap of $48.76 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 23.41, a PEG ratio of 3.15 and a beta of 0.73. The businesss 50 day moving average is $151.26 and its two-hundred day moving average is $154.18. The company has a quick ratio of 0.56, a current ratio of 0.60 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.87.

Sempra Energy (NYSE:SRE  Get Rating) last released its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, February 28th. The utilities provider reported $2.35 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.06 by $0.29. Sempra Energy had a return on equity of 10.53% and a net margin of 14.74%. The company had revenue of $3.46 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $3.79 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business posted $2.16 earnings per share. The companys revenue for the quarter was down 10.1% compared to the same quarter last year. Analysts forecast that Sempra Energy will post 8.95 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Sempra Energy Increases Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Saturday, April 15th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, March 22nd were issued a $1.19 dividend. This is a positive change from Sempra Energys previous quarterly dividend of $1.15. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Tuesday, March 21st. This represents a $4.76 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.07%. Sempra Energys dividend payout ratio is 71.90%.

Sempra Energy Profile

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Sempra Energy is an energy-service holding company, which engages in the development and operation of energy infrastructure, and provision of electric and gas services. It operates through the following segments: San Diego Gas and Electric Company (SDG&E), Southern California Gas Company (SoCalGas), Sempra Texas Utilities, Sempra Mexico, and Sempra LNG.

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State of New Jersey Common Pension Fund D lifted its stake in shares of Rexford Industrial Realty, Inc. (NYSE:REXR  Get Rating) by 15.0% during the 4th quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The institutional investor owned 457,286 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after buying an additional 59,703 shares during the period. State of New Jersey Common Pension Fund Ds holdings in Rexford Industrial Realty were worth $24,986,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of REXR. Vanguard Group Inc. grew its holdings in Rexford Industrial Realty by 3.2% in the third quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 24,203,244 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $1,258,568,000 after purchasing an additional 759,554 shares during the period. BlackRock Inc. grew its holdings in Rexford Industrial Realty by 1.4% in the third quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 22,667,920 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $1,178,731,000 after purchasing an additional 312,187 shares during the period. State Street Corp grew its holdings in Rexford Industrial Realty by 2.7% in the third quarter. State Street Corp now owns 9,066,632 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $474,163,000 after purchasing an additional 236,991 shares during the period. Centersquare Investment Management LLC grew its holdings in Rexford Industrial Realty by 2.9% in the third quarter. Centersquare Investment Management LLC now owns 3,165,545 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $164,609,000 after purchasing an additional 89,589 shares during the period. Finally, Dimensional Fund Advisors LP lifted its stake in shares of Rexford Industrial Realty by 0.8% in the third quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP now owns 2,896,407 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $150,608,000 after buying an additional 23,798 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 98.77% of the companys stock.

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Rexford Industrial Realty Stock Up 1.7 %

Shares of Rexford Industrial Realty stock opened at $54.61 on Tuesday. The company has a market cap of $10.74 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 59.36, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.21 and a beta of 0.84. The companys 50 day moving average is $59.13 and its 200 day moving average is $56.84. Rexford Industrial Realty, Inc. has a twelve month low of $48.74 and a twelve month high of $84.68. The company has a quick ratio of 0.53, a current ratio of 0.53 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.29.

Rexford Industrial Realty Increases Dividend

Insider Activity at Rexford Industrial Realty

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, April 17th. Investors of record on Friday, March 31st were given a dividend of $0.38 per share. This is an increase from Rexford Industrial Realtys previous quarterly dividend of $0.32. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, March 30th. This represents a $1.52 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.78%. Rexford Industrial Realtys dividend payout ratio is 165.22%.

In other Rexford Industrial Realty news, General Counsel David E. Lanzer sold 16,778 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, March 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $58.16, for a total value of $975,808.48. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. 1.20% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several research analysts have recently issued reports on the stock. BMO Capital Markets assumed coverage on shares of Rexford Industrial Realty in a research note on Monday, February 6th. They issued an outperform rating and a $77.00 target price on the stock. StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of Rexford Industrial Realty in a research note on Thursday, March 16th. They issued a sell rating on the stock. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, one has assigned a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $69.33.

Rexford Industrial Realty Profile

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Rexford Industrial Realty, Inc is a self-administered and self-managed real estate investment trust. It engages in owning and operating industrial properties in infill markets. The company was founded by Richard S. Ziman on January 18, 2013 and is headquartered in Los Angeles, CA.

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NorthRock Partners LLC lifted its stake in Intercontinental Exchange, Inc. (NYSE:ICE  Get Rating) by 27.6% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 3,741 shares of the financial services providers stock after acquiring an additional 810 shares during the period. NorthRock Partners LLCs holdings in Intercontinental Exchange were worth $384,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other large investors have also recently made changes to their positions in ICE. MADDEN SECURITIES Corp purchased a new position in Intercontinental Exchange during the 4th quarter worth $26,000. Red Tortoise LLC purchased a new stake in Intercontinental Exchange during the 4th quarter valued at about $26,000. Cowa LLC purchased a new stake in Intercontinental Exchange during the 3rd quarter valued at about $27,000. Concord Wealth Partners purchased a new stake in Intercontinental Exchange during the 4th quarter valued at about $27,000. Finally, WASHINGTON TRUST Co boosted its stake in shares of Intercontinental Exchange by 173.9% in the third quarter. WASHINGTON TRUST Co now owns 315 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $28,000 after buying an additional 200 shares during the last quarter. 87.28% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of brokerages have recently commented on ICE. Raymond James upped their target price on Intercontinental Exchange from $126.00 to $127.00 and gave the stock a strong-buy rating in a research note on Thursday, April 6th. Rosenblatt Securities restated a buy rating and issued a $168.00 target price on shares of Intercontinental Exchange in a research note on Thursday, April 6th. Morgan Stanley upped their price target on Intercontinental Exchange from $120.00 to $123.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a report on Tuesday, April 11th. UBS Group upped their price target on Intercontinental Exchange from $119.00 to $130.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Thursday, April 6th. Finally, StockNews.com assumed coverage on Intercontinental Exchange in a report on Thursday, March 16th. They issued a hold rating for the company. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, five have issued a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $131.55.

Intercontinental Exchange Price Performance

Shares of Intercontinental Exchange stock opened at $107.99 on Tuesday. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $103.47 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $102.17. Intercontinental Exchange, Inc. has a 12 month low of $88.60 and a 12 month high of $125.36. The stock has a market capitalization of $60.44 billion, a P/E ratio of 42.02, a PEG ratio of 2.19 and a beta of 0.92. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.80, a current ratio of 1.05 and a quick ratio of 1.05.

Intercontinental Exchange (NYSE:ICE  Get Rating) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, February 2nd. The financial services provider reported $1.25 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $1.26 by ($0.01). The company had revenue of $1.77 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.78 billion. Intercontinental Exchange had a net margin of 15.01% and a return on equity of 13.11%. Intercontinental Exchanges revenue for the quarter was down 3.9% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the company earned $1.34 earnings per share. As a group, analysts predict that Intercontinental Exchange, Inc. will post 5.46 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Intercontinental Exchange Increases Dividend

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 31st. Stockholders of record on Friday, March 17th were given a $0.42 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, March 16th. This is a positive change from Intercontinental Exchanges previous quarterly dividend of $0.38. This represents a $1.68 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.56%. Intercontinental Exchanges dividend payout ratio is 65.37%.

Insider Activity

In related news, CEO Jeffrey C. Sprecher sold 81,827 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, February 22nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $104.02, for a total value of $8,511,644.54. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 1,203,104 shares in the company, valued at $125,146,878.08. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. In other news, SVP Douglas Foley sold 1,600 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Thursday, February 23rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $104.80, for a total transaction of $167,680.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the senior vice president now directly owns 21,481 shares in the company, valued at $2,251,208.80. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at this link. Also, CEO Jeffrey C. Sprecher sold 81,827 shares of the stock in a transaction on Wednesday, February 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $104.02, for a total value of $8,511,644.54. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 1,203,104 shares in the company, valued at $125,146,878.08. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Company insiders own 1.10% of the companys stock.

Intercontinental Exchange Profile

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Intercontinental Exchange, Inc engages in the provision of market infrastructure, data services and technology solutions. It operates through the following segments: Exchanges, Fixed Income and Data Services, and Mortgage Technology. The Exchanges segment includes trading and listing revenue from the global futures network, the New York Stock Exchange and other registered securities exchanges.

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Hunter Associates Investment Management LLC lessened its holdings in shares of Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE  Get Rating) by 0.7% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 143,535 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after selling 972 shares during the quarter. Pfizer comprises about 1.8% of Hunter Associates Investment Management LLCs holdings, making the stock its 13th biggest holding. Hunter Associates Investment Management LLCs holdings in Pfizer were worth $7,351,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in PFE. Front Street Capital Management Inc. boosted its position in Pfizer by 4.3% in the first quarter. Front Street Capital Management Inc. now owns 5,168 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $268,000 after buying an additional 215 shares in the last quarter. Lindenwold Advisors raised its position in Pfizer by 1.0% in the third quarter. Lindenwold Advisors now owns 21,151 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $926,000 after purchasing an additional 216 shares during the last quarter. Signet Financial Management LLC increased its stake in shares of Pfizer by 0.6% in the third quarter. Signet Financial Management LLC now owns 34,338 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $1,503,000 after buying an additional 220 shares during the period. Mitchell Mcleod Pugh & Williams Inc. raised its holdings in Pfizer by 0.7% in the 3rd quarter. Mitchell Mcleod Pugh & Williams Inc. now owns 33,978 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $1,487,000 after buying an additional 222 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Cape Cod Five Cents Savings Bank boosted its position in Pfizer by 0.7% during the 3rd quarter. Cape Cod Five Cents Savings Bank now owns 32,775 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $1,435,000 after buying an additional 225 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 67.62% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of equities research analysts have weighed in on the stock. JPMorgan Chase & Co. set a $45.00 target price on shares of Pfizer in a report on Monday, February 27th. Jefferies Financial Group assumed coverage on shares of Pfizer in a report on Monday, March 6th. They set a hold rating and a $43.00 target price on the stock. Cantor Fitzgerald reissued an overweight rating and set a $75.00 target price on shares of Pfizer in a report on Wednesday, February 1st. Credit Suisse Group reduced their price objective on shares of Pfizer from $54.00 to $50.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, February 1st. Finally, Bank of America lowered shares of Pfizer from a buy rating to a neutral rating and set a $60.00 price objective on the stock. in a research note on Wednesday, January 4th. Eight equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have issued a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $49.80.

Pfizer Stock Down 0.0 %

Shares of NYSE PFE opened at $41.18 on Tuesday. The firm has a market cap of $232.44 billion, a PE ratio of 7.51, a P/E/G ratio of 1.39 and a beta of 0.64. Pfizer Inc. has a 12-month low of $39.23 and a 12-month high of $54.93. The companys fifty day simple moving average is $41.41 and its 200 day simple moving average is $45.38. The company has a quick ratio of 1.00, a current ratio of 1.22 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.34.

Pfizer (NYSE:PFE  Get Rating) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, January 31st. The biopharmaceutical company reported $1.14 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.03 by $0.11. Pfizer had a net margin of 31.27% and a return on equity of 42.03%. The firm had revenue of $24.30 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $24.40 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company posted $1.08 earnings per share. The businesss revenue was up 1.9% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, sell-side analysts forecast that Pfizer Inc. will post 3.3 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other news, major shareholder Pfizer Inc bought 1,811,594 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, March 17th. The stock was bought at an average price of $2.76 per share, for a total transaction of $4,999,999.44. Following the completion of the acquisition, the insider now directly owns 5,952,263 shares in the company, valued at approximately $16,428,245.88. The purchase was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Corporate insiders own 0.05% of the companys stock.

Pfizer Profile

(Get Rating)

Pfizer Inc is a research-based global biopharmaceutical company. It engages in the discovery, development, manufacture, marketing, sales and distribution of biopharmaceutical products worldwide. The firm works across developed and emerging markets to advance wellness, prevention, treatments and cures that challenge the most feared diseases.

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State of New Jersey Common Pension Fund D lifted its stake in shares of Realty Income Co. (NYSE:O  Get Rating) by 2.2% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 377,919 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after buying an additional 8,153 shares during the quarter. State of New Jersey Common Pension Fund D owned about 0.06% of Realty Income worth $23,971,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission.

Several other large investors also recently modified their holdings of O. Panagora Asset Management Inc. grew its position in Realty Income by 33.7% in the 1st quarter. Panagora Asset Management Inc. now owns 25,505 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $1,767,000 after purchasing an additional 6,433 shares during the period. Blair William & Co. IL grew its position in Realty Income by 1.9% in the 1st quarter. Blair William & Co. IL now owns 18,695 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $1,296,000 after purchasing an additional 345 shares during the period. Prudential PLC acquired a new stake in Realty Income in the 1st quarter valued at $592,000. Baird Financial Group Inc. grew its position in Realty Income by 8.2% in the 1st quarter. Baird Financial Group Inc. now owns 115,733 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $8,020,000 after purchasing an additional 8,803 shares during the period. Finally, NewEdge Advisors LLC grew its position in Realty Income by 5.6% in the 1st quarter. NewEdge Advisors LLC now owns 31,334 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $2,171,000 after purchasing an additional 1,671 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 80.56% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of research firms have recently commented on O. Raymond James cut Realty Income from an outperform rating to a market perform rating in a research note on Monday, January 9th. BNP Paribas began coverage on Realty Income in a research note on Tuesday, January 17th. They set a neutral rating and a $72.00 target price on the stock. Mizuho lowered their target price on Realty Income from $69.00 to $66.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, March 9th. Stifel Nicolaus lowered their target price on Realty Income from $72.25 to $71.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, March 23rd. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada lifted their target price on Realty Income from $68.00 to $70.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Thursday, February 23rd. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have given a hold rating and five have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $71.60.

Realty Income Stock Up 1.3 %

Shares of O opened at $61.56 on Tuesday. The firm has a market cap of $40.66 billion, a P/E ratio of 43.35, a P/E/G ratio of 2.97 and a beta of 0.80. The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of $63.63 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $63.33. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.63, a current ratio of 1.85 and a quick ratio of 1.85. Realty Income Co. has a 1 year low of $55.50 and a 1 year high of $75.40.

Realty Income (NYSE:O  Get Rating) last issued its earnings results on Tuesday, February 21st. The real estate investment trust reported $0.36 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.98 by ($0.62). The firm had revenue of $888.65 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $840.57 million. Realty Income had a return on equity of 3.14% and a net margin of 26.00%. The firms quarterly revenue was up 29.7% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned $0.94 EPS. On average, analysts forecast that Realty Income Co. will post 4.09 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Realty Income Dividend Announcement

The business also recently disclosed a apr 23 dividend, which will be paid on Monday, May 15th. Stockholders of record on Monday, May 1st will be paid a dividend of $0.255 per share. This represents a dividend yield of 4.9%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, April 28th. Realty Incomes dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 215.49%.

About Realty Income

(Get Rating)

Realty Income Corp. is a real estate company, which engages in generating dependable monthly cash dividends from a consistent and predictable level of cash flow from operations. The company was founded by William E. Clark, Jr. and Evelyn Joan Clark in 1969 and is headquartered in San Diego, CA.

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TFG Advisers LLC boosted its position in Lowes Companies, Inc. (NYSE:LOW  Get Rating) by 9.6% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The fund owned 1,411 shares of the home improvement retailers stock after purchasing an additional 124 shares during the quarter. TFG Advisers LLCs holdings in Lowes Companies were worth $281,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Pershing Square Capital Management L.P. increased its stake in shares of Lowes Companies by 1.6% in the 3rd quarter. Pershing Square Capital Management L.P. now owns 10,374,801 shares of the home improvement retailers stock worth $1,948,491,000 after acquiring an additional 167,495 shares during the last quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA increased its stake in shares of Lowes Companies by 13.0% in the 3rd quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA now owns 7,916,354 shares of the home improvement retailers stock worth $1,486,770,000 after acquiring an additional 912,518 shares during the last quarter. Salem Investment Counselors Inc. increased its stake in shares of Lowes Companies by 4.9% in the 3rd quarter. Salem Investment Counselors Inc. now owns 3,463,854 shares of the home improvement retailers stock worth $650,546,000 after acquiring an additional 160,651 shares during the last quarter. London Co. of Virginia increased its stake in shares of Lowes Companies by 2.9% in the 3rd quarter. London Co. of Virginia now owns 2,071,408 shares of the home improvement retailers stock worth $389,031,000 after acquiring an additional 58,983 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Renaissance Technologies LLC increased its stake in shares of Lowes Companies by 7,952.8% in the 1st quarter. Renaissance Technologies LLC now owns 1,586,400 shares of the home improvement retailers stock worth $320,754,000 after acquiring an additional 1,566,700 shares during the last quarter. 72.62% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Lowes Companies Stock Up 1.4 %

LOW opened at $205.00 on Tuesday. The firm has a market cap of $122.25 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 20.48, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.16 and a beta of 1.09. Lowes Companies, Inc. has a 52 week low of $170.12 and a 52 week high of $223.31. The businesss 50 day moving average is $201.48 and its two-hundred day moving average is $201.48.

Lowes Companies Dividend Announcement

Lowes Companies ( NYSE:LOW Get Rating ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, March 1st. The home improvement retailer reported $2.28 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.21 by $0.07. The company had revenue of $22.40 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $22.71 billion. Lowes Companies had a negative return on equity of 82.30% and a net margin of 6.63%. The firms revenue was up 5.0% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $1.78 earnings per share. Equities analysts expect that Lowes Companies, Inc. will post 13.84 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, May 10th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, April 26th will be paid a $1.05 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, April 25th. This represents a $4.20 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.05%. Lowes Companiess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 41.96%.

Insider Buying and Selling at Lowes Companies

In other Lowes Companies news, EVP Donald Frieson sold 9,411 shares of Lowes Companies stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, March 15th. The stock was sold at an average price of $197.00, for a total value of $1,853,967.00. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 17,888 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,523,936. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Company insiders own 0.24% of the companys stock.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of equities analysts have recently weighed in on the company. Citigroup lowered their price target on Lowes Companies from $215.00 to $210.00 in a report on Friday, March 3rd. Truist Financial lowered their price target on Lowes Companies from $258.00 to $235.00 in a report on Thursday, March 2nd. Robert W. Baird lowered their price target on Lowes Companies from $250.00 to $235.00 in a report on Wednesday, March 1st. Credit Suisse Group assumed coverage on Lowes Companies in a report on Monday, December 19th. They set a neutral rating and a $210.00 price target for the company. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. lowered their price target on Lowes Companies from $230.00 to $210.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a report on Thursday, March 2nd. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, twelve have given a hold rating and fifteen have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $223.85.

Lowes Companies Company Profile

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Lowes Cos., Inc engages in the retail sale of home improvement products. The firm offers products for maintenance, repair, remodeling, home decorating and property maintenance. It also provides home improvement products in the following categories: appliances, bathroom, building supply, electrical, flooring, hardware, paint, kitchen, plumbing, lighting & fans, outdoor living, windows and doors.

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Marshall Financial Group LLC reduced its holdings in The Charles Schwab Co. (NYSE:SCHW  Get Rating) by 7.7% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 3,422 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 285 shares during the quarter. Marshall Financial Group LLCs holdings in Charles Schwab were worth $285,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other large investors have also recently bought and sold shares of SCHW. IFG Advisory LLC lifted its holdings in Charles Schwab by 2.4% during the 3rd quarter. IFG Advisory LLC now owns 6,175 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $443,000 after purchasing an additional 144 shares in the last quarter. Desjardins Global Asset Management Inc. boosted its stake in Charles Schwab by 3.0% during the third quarter. Desjardins Global Asset Management Inc. now owns 5,136 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $369,000 after buying an additional 150 shares during the period. 1ST Source Bank increased its stake in Charles Schwab by 0.6% in the 3rd quarter. 1ST Source Bank now owns 24,341 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $1,749,000 after acquiring an additional 150 shares during the last quarter. Atlas Private Wealth Management grew its holdings in shares of Charles Schwab by 4.1% during the third quarter. Atlas Private Wealth Management now owns 3,829 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $275,000 after purchasing an additional 151 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Beacon Financial Group raised its stake in Charles Schwab by 0.7% in the third quarter. Beacon Financial Group now owns 21,285 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,546,000 after purchasing an additional 157 shares in the last quarter. 73.49% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Insider Activity at Charles Schwab

In related news, insider Bernard J. Clark acquired 5,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, March 17th. The shares were bought at an average price of $54.83 per share, with a total value of $274,150.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now directly owns 120,653 shares in the company, valued at $6,615,403.99. The acquisition was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. In other news, CEO Walter W. Bettinger bought 50,000 shares of Charles Schwab stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, March 14th. The stock was bought at an average price of $59.31 per share, for a total transaction of $2,965,500.00. Following the purchase, the chief executive officer now directly owns 656,501 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $38,937,074.31. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, insider Bernard J. Clark acquired 5,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Friday, March 17th. The stock was acquired at an average cost of $54.83 per share, for a total transaction of $274,150.00. Following the completion of the acquisition, the insider now directly owns 120,653 shares in the company, valued at $6,615,403.99. The disclosure for this purchase can be found here. Over the last quarter, insiders bought 81,000 shares of company stock worth $4,706,960 and sold 728,106 shares worth $58,067,403. 6.60% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Charles Schwab Price Performance

A number of equities analysts recently commented on SCHW shares. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods decreased their target price on shares of Charles Schwab from $89.00 to $65.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, April 6th. Barclays lowered their target price on Charles Schwab from $61.00 to $56.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research note on Friday. William Blair reissued an outperform rating on shares of Charles Schwab in a research note on Tuesday, January 17th. Citigroup reduced their target price on Charles Schwab from $75.00 to $65.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, March 29th. Finally, UBS Group decreased their price objective on shares of Charles Schwab from $70.00 to $65.00 in a report on Tuesday. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, four have assigned a hold rating and eleven have given a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $70.88.

SCHW opened at $52.77 on Tuesday. The business has a fifty day moving average of $65.59 and a 200 day moving average of $73.88. The stock has a market cap of $94.53 billion, a P/E ratio of 15.08, a PEG ratio of 1.05 and a beta of 0.88. The company has a quick ratio of 0.38, a current ratio of 0.38 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.77. The Charles Schwab Co. has a 52-week low of $45.00 and a 52-week high of $86.63.

Charles Schwab (NYSE:SCHW  Get Rating) last issued its earnings results on Monday, April 17th. The financial services provider reported $0.93 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.90 by $0.03. The firm had revenue of $5.12 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $5.13 billion. Charles Schwab had a net margin of 34.60% and a return on equity of 24.94%. The businesss revenue was up 9.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the firm earned $0.77 earnings per share. As a group, sell-side analysts anticipate that The Charles Schwab Co. will post 3.8 EPS for the current year.

Charles Schwab Increases Dividend

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, February 24th. Stockholders of record on Friday, February 10th were paid a dividend of $0.25 per share. This represents a $1.00 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.90%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, February 9th. This is an increase from Charles Schwabs previous quarterly dividend of $0.22. Charles Schwabs payout ratio is currently 28.57%.

About Charles Schwab

(Get Rating)

The Charles Schwab Corp. is a savings and loan holding company, which engages in the provision of wealth management, securities brokerage, banking, asset management, custody, and financial advisory services. It operates through the Investor Services and Advisor Services segments. The Investor Services segment includes retail brokerage and banking services to individual investors, and retirement plan services, as well as other corporate brokerage services, to businesses and their employees.

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Bahvest Resources Berhad (KLSE:BAHVEST) shareholders should be happy to see the share price up 18% in the last month. But if you look at the last five years the returns have not been good. After all, the share price is down 37% in that time, significantly under-performing the market.

Since shareholders are down over the longer term, lets look at the underlying fundamentals over the that time and see if they've been consistent with returns.

See our latest analysis for Bahvest Resources Berhad

There is no denying that markets are sometimes efficient, but prices do not always reflect underlying business performance. One flawed but reasonable way to assess how sentiment around a company has changed is to compare the earnings per share (EPS) with the share price.

Bahvest Resources Berhad became profitable within the last five years. That would generally be considered a positive, so we are surprised to see the share price is down. Other metrics might give us a better handle on how its value is changing over time.

In contrast to the share price, revenue has actually increased by 31% a year in the five year period. So it seems one might have to take closer look at the fundamentals to understand why the share price languishes. After all, there may be an opportunity.

The company's revenue and earnings (over time) are depicted in the image below (click to see the exact numbers).

Balance sheet strength is crucial. It might be well worthwhile taking a look at our free report on how its financial position has changed over time.

A Different Perspective

While the broader market lost about 3.1% in the twelve months, Bahvest Resources Berhad shareholders did even worse, losing 31%. Having said that, it's inevitable that some stocks will be oversold in a falling market. The key is to keep your eyes on the fundamental developments. Regrettably, last year's performance caps off a bad run, with the shareholders facing a total loss of 6% per year over five years. We realise that Baron Rothschild has said investors should "buy when there is blood on the streets", but we caution that investors should first be sure they are buying a high quality business. While it is well worth considering the different impacts that market conditions can have on the share price, there are other factors that are even more important. Consider for instance, the ever-present spectre of investment risk. We've identified 1 warning sign with Bahvest Resources Berhad , and understanding them should be part of your investment process.

Story continues

If you are like me, then you will not want to miss this free list of growing companies that insiders are buying.

Please note, the market returns quoted in this article reflect the market weighted average returns of stocks that currently trade on Malaysian exchanges.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

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State of New Jersey Common Pension Fund D cut its position in shares of Kimberly-Clark Co. (NYSE:KMB  Get Rating) by 3.0% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The fund owned 183,015 shares of the companys stock after selling 5,644 shares during the quarter. State of New Jersey Common Pension Fund D owned 0.05% of Kimberly-Clark worth $24,844,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of KMB. City State Bank boosted its stake in shares of Kimberly-Clark by 3.0% during the 4th quarter. City State Bank now owns 2,729 shares of the companys stock worth $370,000 after buying an additional 80 shares during the last quarter. Kore Private Wealth LLC boosted its stake in shares of Kimberly-Clark by 3.2% during the 3rd quarter. Kore Private Wealth LLC now owns 2,586 shares of the companys stock worth $291,000 after buying an additional 81 shares during the last quarter. Doyle Wealth Management boosted its stake in shares of Kimberly-Clark by 1.4% during the 3rd quarter. Doyle Wealth Management now owns 6,033 shares of the companys stock worth $679,000 after buying an additional 81 shares during the last quarter. Intrust Bank NA boosted its stake in shares of Kimberly-Clark by 1.7% during the 3rd quarter. Intrust Bank NA now owns 5,019 shares of the companys stock worth $564,000 after buying an additional 82 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Country Club Bank GFN boosted its stake in shares of Kimberly-Clark by 1.9% during the 3rd quarter. Country Club Bank GFN now owns 4,443 shares of the companys stock worth $511,000 after buying an additional 83 shares during the last quarter. 74.16% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Kimberly-Clark Trading Up 0.9 %

Shares of KMB opened at $138.63 on Tuesday. The company has a current ratio of 0.78, a quick ratio of 0.47 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 10.83. The firms 50-day moving average price is $129.27 and its 200-day moving average price is $128.99. Kimberly-Clark Co. has a 1-year low of $108.74 and a 1-year high of $144.53. The firm has a market capitalization of $46.78 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 24.24, a PEG ratio of 2.35 and a beta of 0.40.

Kimberly-Clark Increases Dividend

Kimberly-Clark ( NYSE:KMB Get Rating ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, January 25th. The company reported $1.54 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.51 by $0.03. The firm had revenue of $4.96 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $4.99 billion. Kimberly-Clark had a net margin of 9.59% and a return on equity of 264.67%. The firms quarterly revenue was up .0% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the company earned $1.30 earnings per share. Sell-side analysts anticipate that Kimberly-Clark Co. will post 5.92 EPS for the current year.

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, April 4th. Investors of record on Friday, March 10th were given a dividend of $1.18 per share. This represents a $4.72 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.40%. This is a positive change from Kimberly-Clarks previous quarterly dividend of $1.16. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, March 9th. Kimberly-Clarks payout ratio is 82.52%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several research analysts have weighed in on the stock. Wells Fargo & Company increased their price target on shares of Kimberly-Clark from $125.00 to $130.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Wednesday, April 12th. Jefferies Financial Group lowered shares of Kimberly-Clark from a buy rating to a hold rating and raised their target price for the company from $137.00 to $139.00 in a research report on Wednesday, January 4th. StockNews.com upgraded shares of Kimberly-Clark from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Friday, March 24th. Barclays lifted their price target on shares of Kimberly-Clark from $126.00 to $131.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a report on Friday. Finally, UBS Group lifted their target price on shares of Kimberly-Clark from $134.00 to $138.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Thursday, April 6th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, nine have assigned a hold rating and two have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $130.50.

Kimberly-Clark Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Kimberly-Clark Corp. engages in the manufacture and marketing of products made from natural or synthetic fibers. It operates through the following segments: Personal Care, Consumer Tissue, and K-C Professional. The Personal Care segment offers disposable diapers, training and youth pants, swim pants, baby wipes, feminine and incontinence care products, and other related products.

Further Reading

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State Street (NYSE:STT  Get Rating) had its target price lowered by investment analysts at Wells Fargo & Company from $97.00 to $90.00 in a report released on Tuesday, The Fly reports. Wells Fargo & Companys price target suggests a potential upside of 23.83% from the stocks previous close.

Other equities research analysts have also issued research reports about the stock. Barclays dropped their price objective on shares of State Street from $116.00 to $102.00 in a report on Wednesday, April 12th. Evercore ISI dropped their price objective on shares of State Street from $92.00 to $87.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, April 5th. Credit Suisse Group upped their target price on shares of State Street from $76.00 to $84.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Monday, January 23rd. StockNews.com began coverage on shares of State Street in a research report on Thursday, March 16th. They issued a hold rating on the stock. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group began coverage on shares of State Street in a research report on Wednesday, January 4th. They issued a neutral rating on the stock. Eight investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and five have given a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $86.12.

Get State Street alerts:

State Street Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE STT opened at $72.68 on Tuesday. The company has a current ratio of 0.56, a quick ratio of 0.56 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.65. The company has a 50 day simple moving average of $82.57 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $78.60. State Street has a 12 month low of $58.62 and a 12 month high of $94.74. The stock has a market cap of $24.45 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 10.11, a PEG ratio of 1.29 and a beta of 1.56.

Insider Buying and Selling at State Street

State Street ( NYSE:STT Get Rating ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Friday, January 20th. The asset manager reported $2.07 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.00 by $0.07. The company had revenue of $3.16 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $3.06 billion. State Street had a net margin of 20.92% and a return on equity of 12.03%. As a group, analysts predict that State Street will post 8.31 earnings per share for the current year.

In other State Street news, EVP John Plansky sold 11,168 shares of State Street stock in a transaction dated Friday, February 17th. The stock was sold at an average price of $92.22, for a total value of $1,029,912.96. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now owns 42,455 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,915,200.10. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. In other news, EVP John Plansky sold 11,168 shares of State Street stock in a transaction dated Friday, February 17th. The stock was sold at an average price of $92.22, for a total value of $1,029,912.96. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 42,455 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,915,200.10. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, EVP David C. Phelan sold 15,000 shares of State Street stock in a transaction dated Friday, February 24th. The shares were sold at an average price of $86.63, for a total value of $1,299,450.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 72,491 shares in the company, valued at $6,279,895.33. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold 32,893 shares of company stock worth $2,923,987 in the last 90 days. 0.34% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On State Street

Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Guardian Wealth Advisors LLC purchased a new position in shares of State Street during the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $27,000. FNY Investment Advisers LLC purchased a new position in shares of State Street during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $28,000. Accurate Wealth Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of State Street during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $29,000. New Hampshire Trust acquired a new stake in shares of State Street during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $35,000. Finally, Asset Dedication LLC acquired a new stake in shares of State Street during the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $37,000. 88.41% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

About State Street

(Get Rating)

State Street Corp. engages in the provision of financial services to institutional investors. It operates through the Commercial and Financial, and Commercial Real Estate segments. The company was founded in 1792 and is headquartered in Boston, MA.

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Key Insights

The considerable ownership by retail investors in Ballard Power Systems indicates that they collectively have a greater say in management and business strategy

The top 25 shareholders own 36% of the company

Institutional ownership in Ballard Power Systems is 30%

If you want to know who really controls Ballard Power Systems Inc. (TSE:BLDP), then you'll have to look at the makeup of its share registry. And the group that holds the biggest piece of the pie are retail investors with 54% ownership. Put another way, the group faces the maximum upside potential (or downside risk).

And institutions on the other hand have a 30% ownership in the company. Institutions often own shares in more established companies, while it's not unusual to see insiders own a fair bit of smaller companies.

Let's take a closer look to see what the different types of shareholders can tell us about Ballard Power Systems.

View our latest analysis for Ballard Power Systems

What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About Ballard Power Systems?

Institutional investors commonly compare their own returns to the returns of a commonly followed index. So they generally do consider buying larger companies that are included in the relevant benchmark index.

We can see that Ballard Power Systems does have institutional investors; and they hold a good portion of the company's stock. This can indicate that the company has a certain degree of credibility in the investment community. However, it is best to be wary of relying on the supposed validation that comes with institutional investors. They too, get it wrong sometimes. 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 Ballard Power Systems, (below). Of course, keep in mind that there are other factors to consider, too.

Ballard Power Systems is not owned by hedge funds. Looking at our data, we can see that the largest shareholder is Weichai Power Co., Ltd. with 15% of shares outstanding. The Public Investment Fund of The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is the second largest shareholder owning 3.3% of common stock, and The Vanguard Group, Inc. holds about 2.9% of the company stock.

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A deeper look at our ownership data shows that the top 25 shareholders collectively hold less than half of the register, suggesting a large group of small holders where no single shareholder has a majority.

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 Ballard Power Systems

While the precise definition of an insider can be subjective, almost everyone considers board members to be insiders. Company management run the business, but the CEO will answer to the board, even if he or she is a member of it.

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 information suggests that Ballard Power Systems Inc. insiders own under 1% of the company. It's a big company, so even a small proportional interest can create alignment between the board and shareholders. In this case insiders own CA$3.7m worth of shares. It is always good to see at least some insider ownership, but it might be worth checking if those insiders have been selling.

General Public Ownership

The general public, mostly comprising of individual investors, collectively holds 54% of Ballard Power Systems shares. This level of ownership gives investors from the wider public some power to sway key policy decisions such as board composition, executive compensation, and the dividend payout ratio.

Public Company Ownership

It appears to us that public companies own 15% of Ballard Power Systems. We can't be certain but it is quite possible this is a strategic stake. The businesses may be similar, or work together.

Next Steps:

It's always worth thinking about the different groups who own shares in a company. But to understand Ballard Power Systems better, we need to consider many other factors. Consider risks, for instance. Every company has them, and we've spotted 1 warning sign for Ballard Power Systems you should know about.

Ultimately the future is most important. You can access this free report on analyst forecasts for the company.

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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Basilea Pharmaceutica AG

Ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 LR

Basel/Allschwil, Switzerland, April 18, 2023

Basilea Pharmaceutica Ltd (SIX: BSLN), a commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company committed to meeting the needs of patients with severe bacterial or fungal infections, provided an updated timeline for its New Drug Application (NDA) submission for its antibiotic ceftobiprole to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Basilea estimates that an additional three to six months of preparatory work will be required to ensure that one of its third-party contract manufacturing organizations (CMOs) is ready for inspection by the FDA, which is a prerequisite for an NDA review. Basilea, therefore, now expects to submit the NDA for the three indications of Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia (SAB), acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections (ABSSSI), and community-acquired bacterial pneumonia (CABP) in the third quarter of 2023.

David Veitch, Basileas CEO, said: We have compiled our NDA dossier and are ready to make a submission to the FDA. However, after completion of the FDA inspection-readiness preparations within our supply chain, it became clear that the quality systems of one of our CMOs need to be adapted prior to an FDA inspection. We estimate this process to require between three to six months, with the NDA submission planned to occur immediately afterwards in the third quarter of 2023, leading to an expected regulatory decision by the FDA in the second quarter of 2024. Importantly, ceftobiprole, if approved in the US, will have ten years of market exclusivity from approval, based on its Qualified Infectious Disease Product (QIDP) status designated by the FDA.

The updated timelines for the NDA submission in the US do not have any impact on Basileas financial guidance.

Basileas ceftobiprole phase 3 program is funded in part (up to USD 136.4 million, which is approximately 70% of the total potential program costs) with federal funds from the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS); Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR); Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), under contract number HHSO100201600002C.

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About ceftobiprole

Ceftobiprole medocaril, the prodrug of the active moiety ceftobiprole, is a cephalosporin antibiotic for intravenous administration, with rapid bactericidal activity against a wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. This includes methicillin-susceptible and resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA, MRSA).1 The brand is currently approved and marketed as Zevtera and Mabelio in a number of countries in Europe and beyond for the treatment of adult patients with hospital-acquired bacterial pneumonia (HABP), excluding ventilator-associated bacterial pneumonia (VABP), and for the treatment of community-acquired bacterial pneumonia (CABP). Ceftobiprole is not approved in the US. Basilea has entered into several license and distribution agreements for ceftobiprole covering more than 80 countries.

About Basilea

Basilea is a commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company founded in 2000 and headquartered in Switzerland. We are committed to discovering, developing and commercializing innovative drugs to meet the needs of patients with severe bacterial or fungal infections. We have successfully launched two hospital brands, Cresemba for the treatment of invasive fungal infections and Zevtera for the treatment of bacterial infections. In addition, we have preclinical anti-infective assets in our portfolio. Basilea is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (SIX: BSLN). Please visit basilea.com.

Disclaimer

This communication expressly or implicitly contains certain forward-looking statements, such as "believe", "assume", "expect", "forecast", "project", "may", "could", "might", "will" or similar expressions concerning Basilea Pharmaceutica Ltd and its business, including with respect to the progress, timing and completion of research, development and clinical studies for product candidates. Such statements involve certain known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which could cause the actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements of Basilea Pharmaceutica Ltd to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Basilea Pharmaceutica Ltd is providing this communication as of this date and does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

For further information, please contact:

Peer Nils Schroder, PhD



Head of Corporate Communications & Investor Relations

Basilea Pharmaceutica International Ltd, Allschwil

Hegenheimermattweg 167b

4123 Allschwil

Switzerland Phone +41 61 606 1102 E-mail media_relations@basilea.com

investor_relations@basilea.com

This ad hoc announcement can be downloaded from www.basilea.com.

References

Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) Zevtera: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/9164/smpc [Accessed: April 17, 2023]





Press release (PDF)




At least 185 people have been killed and a further 1,800 injured in three days of fighting between rival factions in Sudan, according to the United Nations special representative for Sudan, as the Group of Seven joined calls for an immediate to end to hostilities.

Its a very fluid situation so its very difficult to say where the balance is shifting to, Volker Perthes said on Monday of the violence between the army and paramilitary forces led by rival generals.

The two sides are using tanks, artillery and other heavy weapons in densely populated areas. Fighter jets thundered overhead and anti-aircraft fire lit up the skies as darkness fell.

Speaking to reporters in New York via video, Perthes also said that the warring sides were not giving the impression that they want mediation for a peace between them right away.

The sudden outbreak of violence over the weekend between the nations two top generals, each backed by tens of thousands of heavily armed fighters, trapped millions of people in their homes or wherever they could find shelter, with supplies running low in many areas.

The power struggle pits General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the commander of the armed forces, against General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, the head of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group. The former allies jointly orchestrated an October 2021 military coup.

Gunfire and shelling are everywhere, Awadeya Mahmoud Koko, head of a union for thousands of tea vendors and other food workers, said from her home in a southern district of Khartoum.

She said a shell stuck a neighbours house Sunday, killing at least three people. We couldnt take them to a hospital or bury them.

The violence has raised the spectre of civil war just as Sudanese were trying to revive the drive for a democratic, civilian government after decades of military rule.

Calls for truce

The United Nations, the United States and others have called for a truce. Egypt, which backs Sudans military, and Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates  which forged close ties to the RSF as it sent thousands of fighters to support the war in Yemen  have also called for both sides to stand down.

On Monday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres again called on the warring parties to immediately cease hostilities warning that further escalation could be devastating for the country and the region.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who is attending a Group of Seven meeting in Japan, spoke by phone with Burhan and Dagalo separately and underscored the urgency of reaching a ceasefire, according to the State Departments principal deputy spokesperson, Vedant Patel.

In a joint statement on Tuesday, the G7 foreign ministers condemned the fighting.

We urge the parties to end hostilities immediately without pre-conditions, it said, calling for them to return to negotiations and reduce tensions.

US diplomatic convoy fired on in Sudan, prompting warning from Blinken

A U.S. diplomatic convoy came under fire on Monday in Sudan in an apparent attack by fighters associated with Sudans paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Tuesday, in an incident he described as reckless and irresponsible.

The incident prompted a direct warning from Blinken, who separately telephoned RSF leader General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, and Sudans army chief General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, to tell them that any danger posed to American diplomats was unacceptable.

I can confirm that yesterday we had an American diplomatic convoy that was fired on, Blinken said at a news conference in the Japanese resort town of Karuizawa where he attended a meeting of the Group of Seven foreign ministers.

I made very clear that any attacks threats, dangerous posed to our diplomats were totally unacceptable.

The people in the diplomatic convoy were safe, he said.

We have deep concerns of course about the overall security environment as it affects civilians, as it affects diplomats, as it affects aid workers, he said.

The United States was in close coordination other countries that have influence in Sudan, including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Britain, he said, as well as the African Union and other international organisations.

Fighting in Sudan has killed at least 185 people and injured more than 1,800 others as both sides claimed gains in a conflict that has seen the use of air strikes and artillery.

Clashes have continued despite numerous calls from the United States and other countries for a halt to fighting as well as efforts by Egypt and the United Arab Emirates to get the rivals to agree to a ceasefire.

SOURCE: REUTERS
DETROIT (AP)  Ten electric or plug-in hybrid vehicles will be eligible for a $7,500 U.S. tax credit, while another seven could get $3,750 under new federal rules that go into effect on Tuesday.

But under the Treasury Department rules and other provisions of last year's Inflation Reduction Act, most of the more than 60 electric or plug-in hybrids on sale in the U.S. won't get any tax credits.

That could slow acceptance of electric vehicles and could delay reaching President Joe Biden's ambitious goal that half of new passenger vehicles sold in the U.S. run on electricity by 2030.

The new rules, which govern how much battery minerals and parts can come from countries that don't have free trade agreements with the U.S., bumped nine vehicles off the tax credit eligibility list that went into effect Jan. 1.

The 10 vehicles eligible for the full $7,500 credit are Tesla's Model 3 Performance model, the Tesla Model Y, Ford's F-150 Lightning pickup, the Chrysler Pacifica and the Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring plug-in hybrids. Also, General Motors will have five models eligible this year including its top-selling Chevrolet Bolt and Bolt EUV, as well as the Cadillac Lyriq, the Chevrolet Silverado electric pickup and the upcoming Chevy Equinox small SUV.

The seven models that could get a $3,750 credit include the Jeep Wrangler and Grand Cherokee plug-ins, Ford's Mustang Mach-E SUV, Escape plug-in and E-Transit electric van, the Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring plug-in and the standard range rear-wheel-drive version of Tesla's Model 3.

Consumers can check to see if the EV they're considering is eligible for a credit at www.fueleconomy.gov.

To be eligible, electric vehicles or plug-ins have to be manufactured in North America. SUVs, vans and trucks can't have a sticker price greater than $80,000, while cars can't sticker for more than $55,000. There also are income limits for buyers.

The Treasury Department says the new list shows that families who want to buy an electric or plug-in vehicle will continue to have a number of options to receive a full or partial tax credit in the near term" under rules designed to build electric vehicle production and a supply chain in the U.S.

The reduction in eligible EVs also could conflict with the administration's proposed strict new automobile pollution limits announced last week. The new standards would require up to two-thirds of new vehicles sold in the U.S. to be electric by 2032. Thats a nearly tenfold increase over current electric vehicle sales.

Many of the vehicles that aren't eligible for the credit are made outside of North America, but their manufacturers are building assembly and battery plants in the U.S., and more vehicles will become eligible.

Some auto industry analysts say that while $7,500 would be enough to entice people away from internal combustion vehicles, a $3,750 tax credit might not be enough to offset the average U.S. new EV price.

Kelley Blue Book says the average U.S. new EV costs about $58,600, nearly $10,000 more than the average new vehicle price. To be sure, average EV prices are falling as more people buy less-expensive models. The average EV price was $63,500 a year ago.

Jeff Schuster, executive vice president of LMC Automotive and Global Data, said half of the full tax credit isnt enough. Youre shrinking the market essentially by the vehicles not being affordable, he said, adding that the average combustion engine vehicle isnt affordable either.

The big issue in the rules that are effective Tuesday are limits on the percentage of battery parts and minerals that come from countries that dont have free trade or mineral agreements with the United States.

This year, at least 40% of the value of battery minerals must be mined, processed or recycled in the U.S. or countries with which it has trade deals. That rises 10% every year until it hits 80% after 2026.

Also, at least 50% of the value of battery parts must be manufactured or assembled in North America this year. That requirement rises to 60% next year and in 2025 and jumps 10% each year until it hits 100% after 2028.

In addition to the price limits, there also are income limits aimed to stop wealthier people from getting credits. Buyers cannot have an adjusted gross annual income above $150,000 if single, $300,000 if filing jointly and $225,000 if head of a household.

In addition, starting in 2025, battery minerals cannot come from a foreign entity of concern, mainly China and Russia. Battery parts cannot be sourced in those countries starting in 2024; minerals cant come from those countries in 2025.

The Biden administration said rules governing that requirement are in the works.

Even though the rules are effective Tuesday, the Biden administration is taking public comments, and they can be modified later, including the addition of countries that negotiate trade agreements with the U.S.
ALBANY  Is Florida eating New Yorks lunch?

That was the topic of a debate Friday featuring conservative commentator Reihan Salam and former New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio that focused on why so many New Yorkers have moved to Florida. Is it really a better place to live?

Me? Id take New York, particularly upstate New York, any day of the week. But the Manhattan Institutes Salam, so devoted a New Yorker that he doesnt have a drivers license, wasnt wrong when he noted that the policies of Floridas government make life easier economically for striving, working-class families who might hope to open a business or own a home.

Florida is badly outpacing New York, said Salam in the Friday event sponsored by the nonpartisan group Open to Debate. For a decade, New Yorks leaders have been asleep at the wheel.

My feed of the debate was audio only, so I wasnt able to see de Blasios facial expression when he realized he was among Salams snoozers.

Occasional jibe aside, Salam comes across in the interviews and podcasts Ive heard as affable, engaging and knowledgeable about basic economic realities. Alas, de Blasio is none of those things, a sobering reality for anyone hoping to have New Yorks side of the argument adequately represented. Isnt there anybody else who could have made our case?

Unfortunately for the former mayor, Salam also had astonishing facts on his side. That 1.6 million Floridians, nearly eight percent of the states population, were born in New York suggests that, yes, the Sunshine State is doing something right at our expense. More than 10,000 New Yorkers have moved to Florida already this year, according to the states Department of Transportation.

Those grim numbers no doubt explain why de Blasio eschewed economics and what he called the Marxian perspective to instead focus on politics and culture wars. The Democrat argued that Florida is a hotbed of intolerance and extremism while depicting New York  he ignored the citys well-publicized problem with hate crimes  as a stronghold of compassion.

Maybe de Blasio is right that Floridas move from politically purple to a deepening red, as evidenced by a newly enacted ban on abortions after six weeks, will dampen Floridas allure and curb its growth. Or maybe it wont. Time, I suppose, will tell  and de Blasio argued that climate change will make New York a winner in the end.

We see the horrible destruction of the hurricanes, we see the flooding  this is just the beginning, he said in a debate that will be available as a podcast later this month. The future, unfortunately, is not bright for Florida.

De Blasio might also be right about that, but its a downer of an argument. Is that really the best New York can do? Give up on competing and wait for cataclysm?

And if its true Florida is so terribly intolerant, Salam countered, isnt it all the more damning that so many immigrants and minority New Yorkers are moving there? The son of parents who left Bangladesh for New York in the 1970s, Salam noted that its cost of living now makes New York inhospitable to families like his. New York, he said, has pulled up the ladder of opportunity.

Salam stressed, accurately, that crime is higher in Florida but said New York Citys density makes quality-of-life problems more difficult to evade. He didnt talk much about taxes, saying the poor delivery of many services is the real issue. And he correctly noted that while Albany's economic policies hurt New York City, they're fatal for much of the rest of the state.

And with that, we enjoyed a rare mention of upstate in a debate that often conflated New York state with New York City.

Of course, families fleeing New York Citys high housing costs and other irritations dont need to move to Florida. As many refugees have discovered, an easier life is available in the Hudson Valley or Capital Region. Sure, there's winter  but summer in Florida is like living in a dogs mouth, only with more humidity. No thanks.

Not that Im immune to Floridas charms. I love Miami and the Everglades. Much of the state is truly beautiful, with flora and fauna that are dazzling when youve arrived from the gray of an upstate winter.

But significant and growing parts of Florida are overdeveloped and, as de Blasio said, unsustainable. Were talking six-lane roadways clogged with traffic and lined with boring shopping centers. Were talking generic subdivisions of cookie-cutter homes that stretch across the horizon, an air-conditioned nightmare.

Upstate New York, with its mountains and lakes, with its character-filled towns and cities, with its sense of place and history, should be able to compete against the bland, flat-as-a-pancake nothingness that constitutes so much of Florida. That so many New Yorkers have left, that our lunch is being eaten, is inescapably damning.

Florida is stealing our thunder, Salam said. We should fight to reestablish New York as the opportunity state, but the first step is realizing that we have a problem.

cchurchill@timesunion.com  518-454-5442  @chris_churchill
Theres a 10-month-old tavern in Clifton Park in a newly built, surprisingly good-looking strip plaza also occupied by a stylish art gallery and Italian import deli. The Flats Restaurant & Tavern hits all the open-plan, modish, industrial tropes, with corrugated ceilings and exposed ductwork, booths and tables beside a neat cubed bar, and an expansive patio for warmer nights, even if the view is a parking lot on all sides.

In spite of clean lines and modern pendant lamps, its a neighborhood spot, casual in menu and style, with service as laid back as a diner. Acoustics are a challenge, and its a brave call to put metal chairs on concrete floors so they shriek like nails on a chalkboard when moved. During our midweek visit, the restaurant bustles, but there are some low ball moves. With half the tables available, were led to one set for six by the server scraping station and kitchen swing door. When I balk at it, were relocated to a bar-side table by the toilets. Sigh.

It seems booths are the preferred way to go. The packed seats emanate some of the highest-decibel conversations in recent memory. Something about the acoustics makes it necessary to yell, and our server struggles to hear our order, though I can repeat back the order he confirmed at the next table.

The Flats menu runs dutifully through sheet-pan nachos and burgers to steak and fish-n-chips, so if youre going for after-work drinks and an order of Afterburner wings  fried and finished in a 500-degree oven  youll likely be happy. Its when you try to pair the $36 rib-eye, $29 Gulf snapper or wines that retail for $10 to $12 a bottle but here marked up to $12.50 a glass that youll struggle to make a match. The reason you find yourself at The Flats is the barometer of how well youll like your food.

Restaurant Review The Flats Restaurant & Tavern Address: 675 Grooms Road, Clifton Park

Hours: 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday to Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, closed Monday

Price: Food, $15.99 to $36.49

Info: 518-357-3827 and theflats675.com

Etc.: On-site parking. ADA-accessible See More Collapse

The Flats goes hard on creative tweaks: Take steamers with leek and sake (or saki, as it reads on the menu) and ahi tuna nachos rather cleverly encrusted in everything-bagel seasoning, a combo that really works. Of course, calamari and chicken strips are there, too  all for $16 a pop. Tavern food for an end-of-day pint.

But Im here for The Rexford, a $30 wagyu burger, making it one of the most expensive in the Capital Region. Gastro burgers often hit $16 to $19 in fast-casual eateries, where the patties are handmade, buns brioche and fries hand-cut. At Wolf Roads Warehouse Grill, a cheese-stuffed burger slapped between two bacon-grilled cheese sandwiches (The Coronary Infarction) will set you back $25, while an $18 Capitol burger at Wellingtons in Albanys Renaissance Hotel quickly doubles to $36 if you top it with seared foie gras.

So a burger with a $30 price tag raises expectations. The Rexford makes a flex of its own with a 4-ounce lobster tail held in place with a toothpick, and bacon marmalade, crispy pancetta, tomato confit, roasted red onions and Gruyere cheese to add umami and height. Its juicy and greasy, gushing with every bite to the point that hands get soaked and the bottom bun is very, very wet. Its OK, if unremarkable, and hard to handle with such wet bread.

What do we want in a $30 burger? An umami crust? Smoked mayonnaise? Wagyu beef? Gold leaf? Heat made this little lobster tail seize up into a tight curl thats harder than rubber to cut, let alone bite while onboard. I cant help but wonder if its just a gimmick. For a neighborhood bar with a casual after-work crowd, does such a burger even belong?

Its hard to say. The 14-ounce rib-eye will set you back $36, while The Flats mac-n-cheese with cavatappi pasta and bechamel cheese sauce is a wallet-friendly $15.99. Thats unless you add braised short rib for $6, as my son did, or a $12 lobster tail. It arrived so tepid I sent it back to be reheated, but it still curiously tasted of almost nothing, barely a whiff of cheese and clumps of cool braised beef with the flavor mostly of pan grease.

The straight talk is that the food isnt very good. Either mismatched in ratios, overly greasy or confused, like a chopped salad that turned out to be spinach leaves topped with diced carrots, tomatoes and onions with a tub of flavored mayo as dressing on the side. French onion soup offers a glimmer of hope with a generous bronzed cap of gooey melted cheese over dark brown broth, but the sharp tang leads me to believe a vinegar mishap has occurred at some point from saucepan to plate.

Our server recommends the fried green tomatoes, which come three to a long, slim plate. Three. Three individual slices of green tomato, breaded and fried to crisp discs and each topped with an ice cream scoop of creamy pimento cheese and candy-sweet tomato jam. I cant imagine when anyone would confidently want three scoops of pimento cheese without crackers or bread. If you can, its yours for $15.

Chicken and waffles score best for juicy breast meat locked inside in a darkly fried bread-crumb shell with all the salt and cayenne heat of the Dead Sea in the midday sun.

It would be one thing if eating The Flats' fried bar food was friendly and fun, but the noise level and chair scraping and plates that miss more than hit dash hopes of a go-to tavern like a Swiftys or Tipsy Moose. You dont need me to add that the creme brulee is runny or staff advise that either of the sangrias is exceptionally sweet. But theres a winner waiting before you leave: Chef Stefans Amazing Carrot Cake, a multilayer, cream-cheese-frosted, walnut-y happy ending. Whether youre quaffing pints in booths or munching burgers by the restroom, order a slice to go.
YUBA CITY, Calif. (AP)  Authorities in Northern California on Monday said they had arrested more than a dozen men from two warring criminal syndicates whose violent rivalry they say was responsible for a mass shooting at a Sikh temple and a brutal sword attack at a parade in 2018.

Sutter County District Attorney Jennifer Dupre said the two syndicates were responsible for multiple shootings where 11 people were shot, including five people at a Sikh temple in Stockton last year and two more victims at a temple in Sacramento last month.

None of the victims died. Dupre said all of the men arrested are part of California's Sikh community and were members of one of two rival groups whose feud was fueled by intense personal connections.

This started out as one group, and one faction broke off, and since then they have been rivals trying to outdo each other. Mainly they show up places and try to shoot each other, Dupre said, comparing it to the U.S. Civil War where brothers were fighting against brothers.

Dupre said the arrests are not related to the murders last year of a Sikh family in the San Joaquin Valley, which included the killings of an 8-month-old baby, the baby's parents and an uncle.

Dupre said the violence began in 2018 at the annual Sikh Parade in Yuba City, one of the largest South Asian festivals held outside of the Indian subcontinent. There, Dupre said, a man was beaten so hard with a sword that it broke. The violence soon escalated to shootings, including one at a wedding party in 2021.

The rash of violence attracted the attention of the Yuba-Sutter Narcotic and Gang Enforcement Task Force, which launched an investigation with assistance from the FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and various other local, state and federal law enforcement agencies.

The investigation intensified in March, when authorities learned of potential violence at a Sikh parade in Sacramento. Dupre said police stopped two cars before they reached the parade, arresting seven people and seizing four handguns and two other guns with large capacity magazines.

A shooting still happened at the parade, injuring two people, but Dupre said a mass casualty incident was prevented.

If those weapons had gotten into the parade, it could have been a bloodbath, Dupre said.

Altogether, Dupre said police seized 41 guns during the investigation, including a weapon described as a machine gun.

Authorities arrested 17 people, including Karandeep Singh, Pardeep Singh, Pavittar Singh, Husandeep Singh, Sahajpreet Singh, Harkirat Singh, Tirath Ram, Dharamvir Singh, Jobanjit Singh, Gurvinder Singh, Nitish Kaushal, Gurminder Singh Kang, Devender Singh, Karambir Gill, Rajeev Ranjan, Jobanpreet Singh and Singh Dhesi.

Dupre said five other people  Amandeep Singh, Harmandeep Singh, Gursharn Singh, Grucharan Singh and Jaskaran Singh  have not yet been arrested.

Dupre said the men have not had a court appearances yet. It's not clear if they have attorneys yet who can speak on their behalf.

Yuba City, a city of nearly 70,000 people along the Feather River just north of Sacramento, has a large Sikh community. Locals often refer to the area as mini Punjab, named after the Indian state where many Sikhs live. Each November, tens of thousands of people travel to the city for Nagar Kirtan, one of the largest Sikh gatherings in the U.S.

Sikhs also have a large presence throughout California's Central Valley. The Sacramento County Assistant Sheriff said seven of the shootings occurred in Sacramento County within the past year.

The investigation in this particular case and the charges that have been brought forth does not in any way reflect or represent the vibrant Sikh community that are such an important and vital part of the greater community in this region, Sacramento County District Attorney Thien Ho said.
Almost 90% of respondents in Earth Day survey want to keep fruits and vegetables fresher longer  and 7 in 10 would invest in a smart refrigerator to do so

BOLINGBROOK, Ill., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Beko Home Appliances USA is honoring its promise of an Earth Day launch of a new line of refrigerators that dramatically extend the life of fresh produce and produce vitamin content amid growing public demand for enhanced food preservation in kitchen appliances.

Beko refrigerators with HarvestFresh utilize a three-color light system that simulates the 24-hour natural sun cycle to preserve essential vitamins and minerals in fresh produce for longer.

The U.S. subsidiary of the global appliance manufacturer known for its health, wellness and sustainability legacy is making the first seven of 20 new refrigerators equipped with its HarvestFresh technology available at its national dealer partners today. The 13 remaining models, including the 36" French Four-Door model that captured the DesignBites Brand With The Biggest Bite, one of two big product honors at the 2023 Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) earlier this year, will hit dealer floors later this year.

A proprietary, three-light innovation that recreates the 24-hour sun cycle in the crisper drawers, Beko's HarvestFresh preserves fruits and vegetables for 30 days while extending the life of the essential vitamins in fresh produce, namely vitamins A and C.

Meanwhile, in a March 2023 survey of 2,000 adults sponsored by Beko, 88% of Americans wish they could keep fruits and vegetables fresher longer while a similar eight in 10 say they are willing to invest in new appliances that reduce food waste, increase electricity and water efficiency, or help them live healthier. Of those appliances, a smart refrigerator with crisper drawers that preserve vitamin content in produce was the top response (70%).

Beko answers the call by evolving its produce-preservation technology to now include the vitamins and minerals found in produce. In what started as EverFresh+ with Active Blue Light, a series of crisper drawers in all Beko refrigerators that keep fruits and vegetables fresh for 30 days[1], has led to HarvestFresh, a three-color light technology that glows blue at sunrise to initiate the photosynthesis process, green at midday to capture the strongest sunlight, and red at sunset to prepare for the night to extend the life of produce vitamins and minerals.[2]

Story continues

"Beko's new HarvestFresh-equipped refrigerators are a game changer in the home appliance space since they give consumers exactly what they are asking for: the opportunity to live a healthier, more nutritious life," said Beko Vice President of Marketing Justin Reinke.

According to Reinke, the new line is consistent with changing public perceptions about the relationship between fruit and vitamin preservation and healthier living.

Eighty-one percent of respondents in the Beko survey think they would eat heathier if they had a refrigerator that kept fruits and vegetable longer. Eight in 10 also believe that getting their vitamins from fresh produce is important and would be more likely to choose a refrigerator that went beyond preserving produce to also preserve produce vitamin content as well.

Aligned with Beko's legacy of sustainable manufacturing, the new models use an industry-low R600a refrigerant and most are certified-ENERGY STAR by the EPA. They are also backed by parent company Arcelik's distinction as one of the world's most sustainable appliance manufacturers and Beko's receipt of the EPA's highest energy-conservation honors every year since entering the U.S. in 2016. Beko's 2-year warranty covers all new Beko refrigerators.

The new refrigerator line is the centerpiece of the Beko Healthy Kitchen, a best-in-class collection of people, partnerships, and products designed to explore the kitchen as the intersection of personal and planetary health in the American home.

Media can access the Beko HarvestFresh Electronic Press Kit (EPK), containing brand and product media materials, high-res photography, and survey infographics, by clicking (https://www.dropbox.com/sh/aa64qjak3rj6kyq/AAC3lhAMTF2vUPvHyzI1qN21a?dl=0).

About the Survey :

The random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 general population Americans was commissioned by Beko Home Appliances between March 27 and March 30, 2023. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll , whose team members are members of the Market Research Society and have corporate membership to the American Association for Public Opinion Research ( AAPOR ) and the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research ( ESOMAR )

About Beko U.S.

Beko U.S., Inc. is the American subsidiary of the global household appliances company Arcelik. Committed to the premise that healthy living is only possible on a healthy planet, Beko specializes in cooking, cooling, and cleaning products that empower homeowners to live healthier, more sustainable lives. The brand has received numerous accolades for protecting the environment, including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)'s highest honor for energy efficiency each of the past seven years and Good Housekeeping's 2021 and 2023 Sustainable Innovation Awards in the Smart Sustainable Home Appliance and Conscientious Home Gear categories, respectively. For more information, visit www.beko.com/us-en.

*Source Euromonitor International Limited; Large Appliances as per "Major Appliances" in Consumer Appliances 2022ed, retail volume, 2021 data.

[1] Tested by SGS. Compared to standard crispers for broccoli and lettuce.

[2] Tested by Intertek. Based on Vitamin A and C measurements in tomatoes, green peppers, carrots, spinach and celery directly exposed to the light technology compared with Day 0 conditions over a 5-day period

Media Contact:

Bob Ochsner or Alex Torres

Truth for Beko U.S., Inc.

(714) 340-7842

Beko Home Appliances (PRNewsfoto/Beko Home Appliances U.S.)

Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/beko-launches-its-harvestfresh-refrigerator-line-amid-growing-public-demand-for-food-preservation-301800122.html

SOURCE Beko Home Appliances U.S.
TROY  Board members of the Justice Center of Rensselaer County are paying tribute to Bob Doherty, the groups late co-founder, with a lecture from a leading scholar on racial inequity.

I look forward to bringing inspiration to Troy and to get people talking about how we can build what the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. called a beloved community,  Peniel Joseph said. The Black Power movement scholar is founding director of the Center for the Study of Race and Democracy in the LBJ School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas at Austin, where he also teaches history.

The 2008 election of Barack Obama as the first Black president in American history and his speech about a post-racial America have not come to fruition, but Joseph believes that Kings vision of a community free of racial hatred is still possible.

Joseph will deliver the inaugural Robert J. Doherty Memorial Lecture Series at 7 p.m. Wednesday in Troy Savings Bank Music Hall. No registration is required for the free event.

We felt this was the best way to commemorate Bob, who was a civic leader and intellectual. This is a testament to his legacy, said Noreen McKee, 73, of Troy, a former social worker and second vice president of the Justice Center. She helped underwrite the lecture through the Stephen J. McKee Foundation, named for her late husband, a former journalist and author.

Ph/oto provided by Bob Blackmon

Doherty, 76, died of cancer in 2021. He was born in the Bronx and held degrees from New York University and Columbia University. He had a long career leading hospital-based programs for alcohol and substance abuse treatment. A progressive Democrat, Doherty served three terms as a Troy city councilman and was revered for giving voice to the voiceless.

This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate 3 1 of 3 Photo by Kelvin Ma, courtesy of Basic Books Show More Show Less 2 of 3 Provided by publisher, Basic Books Show More Show Less 3 of 3





Josephs talk, moderated by University at Albany Africana Studies faculty member Jennifer Burns, will focus on his most recent book, The Third Reconstruction: Americas Struggle for Racial Justice in the Twenty-First Century, published by Basic Books in 2022. The book argues that the 2020 killing of George Floyd and Black Lives Matter movement should be viewed as a pivotal third reconstruction. Joseph traces the ongoing struggle by Black Americans to gain equality, beginning with the First Reconstruction and end of slavery after the Civil War in the 1860s, followed by advancements such as voting rights for Black citizens during the civil rights era of the 1960s.

We need a new generation of civic leaders and civil rights activists to enter the story and to write the next chapter of change, Joseph said. He dedicates the book to his mother, Germaine Joseph, who died March 31 at 83. She grew up in rural Haiti, became proficient in four languages, protested her countrys authoritarian regime and emigrated in 1965 to New York City. She was a lab technician at Mount Sinai Hospital, where she worked for 40 years. She raised two sons in Jamaica, Queens as a single parent. The older son became a medical doctor and the younger one earned a Ph.D. en route to an academic career.

Photo by Kelvin Ma, courtesy of Basic Books Provided by publisher, Basic Books Author and scholar Peniel Joseph will deliver the inaugural lecture of the Robert J. Doherty Memorial Lecture Series on Wednesday at the Troy Savings Bank Music Hall Photo By Kelvin Ma, Courtesy Of Basic Books

Germaine Joseph brought her young sons to demonstrations and marches, suggested books about Black history for them and imbued a passionate desire to fight for racial equality.

More Information What: Bob Doherty memorial lecture by Peniel Joseph, author of The Third Reconstruction. When: 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 19 Where: Troy Savings Bank Music Hall, 30 2nd St., Troy. Free and open to the public. https://justicecenterofrensselaercounty.com See More Collapse

My mother was an extraordinary example of what I write about in the book and the one who inspired me above all others to become a scholar and an activist, Joseph said. His hero is W.E.B. Du Bois, a towering Black intellectual, author and activist quoted often by Joseph.

It has been a long and sometimes discouraging struggle, but Im hopeful that Troy and America are ready to have the racial reckoning we need, said Bob Blackmon, 82, who relocated to Troy in 1995 after an academic career in Arkansas and Louisiana. He was active in the 1960s civil rights movement and helped peacefully integrate public schools in 1970 in Leland, Miss.

When Blackmon returned to Leland High School in 1984 with his son, Doug Blackmon, a Leland High graduate and Pulitzer Prize-winning author of the book Slavery by Another Name, white flight had left the school almost exclusively Black. Integration was a short-lived experiment.

McKee and Blackmon, the groups current president, helped Doherty establish the Justice Center in 2020. It was modeled after The Center for Law Justice in Albany, which was founded by Alice Green in 1985 in response to the fatal shooting by Albany police officers of Jesse Davis, an unarmed Black man, who suffered from mental illness. Davis was killed in 1984 in his Arbor Hill apartment.

The Rensselaer County advocacy group was an outgrowth of Dohertys role as chair of the Troy City Councils public safety committee. He grew increasingly troubled by complaints of police misconduct that reached a flashpoint with the 2016 killing of Edson Thevenin, an unarmed Black man fatally shot by Sgt. Randall French, a white police officer, after allegedly fleeing a driving while intoxicated stop.

The case exacerbated tensions and mistrust between members of the citys Black community and the police department after a city-hired legal expert determined the shooting was justified in contradiction of the departments internal affairs bureau that blamed Frenchs actions for Thevenins death. French died in 2020 from complications of COVID-19. The city settled a wrongful death suit with Thevenins widow for $1.55 million in 2021. The settlement did little to quell calls for police reform.

Paul Grondahl / Special to the Times Union

I got involved because of Bob Doherty, who changed my mind about politics because he really listened and cared about communities of color, said Daquetta Jones, 42, who relocated from Florida to Troy in 1998 and is the former executive director of the YWCA of the Greater Capital Region, based in Troy.

Jones is now director of equity and inclusion initiatives at The Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region and serves as vice president of the Justice Center. She vowed to carry on Dohertys work as an activist who held no punches, a fighter for equity, liberty and social and racial justice.

Joseph ends his book on a note of hopefulness. Justice Center board members agreed there has been improvement in avenues of communication with police and city officials.

Justice Center leaders invited to the Joseph lecture Troy Mayor Patrick Madden and Police Chief Dan DeWolf. Both said they plan to attend.

Paul Grondahl is the Opalka Endowed Director of the New York State Writers Institute at the University at Albany and a former Times Union reporter. He can be reached at grondahlpaul@gmail.com
ALBANY  The New York Board of Regents has officially banned all uses of images and names for school mascots related to indigenous people.

The board voted unanimously Tuesday morning, without discussion. The proposal was announced by the state Education Department in November, and education officials have been urging school boards to begin the process to change mascot images and names ever since.

Some districts have already replaced their mascots, including Glens Falls, which replaced its Indians mascot with the Black Bears earlier this month. Corinth also replaced its Tomahawks with River Hawks. At Waterford-Halfmoon, where students are the Fordians in reference to the town of Waterford, the school board voted to remove the indigenous head images used throughout the district. The new turf field and new athletic uniforms already have a WH as the new image.

However, many school officials said they would wait until the proposal was officially approved by the Board of Regents, and pressed for details on whether they could keep names with slight changes, such as keeping Raiders or Warriors but dropping images of indigenous people.

The Education Department convened an advisory group of indigenous people to make recommendations on those questions. All of the proposals were rejected, with advisory group members calling such changes an evasion.

Some schools, including Mohonasen, also argued that their use of mascots that referred to indigenous people as warriors or raiders was a term of respect.

An advisory group member said that was clearly not true.

What school districts have done, he said, was to stereotype indigenous people, act like they were exterminated, and then suggest that using the stereotyped images and phrases would teach the revering of an exterminated group.

After the vote Tuesday, Mohonasen Superintendent Shannon Shine wrote a letter to the community saying that school officials will "seek legal counsel" on the issue. Mohonasen's mascot is the warriors with images of three Indigenous people's heads and an image of a feather.

"Time is needed to digest the information, to seek legal counsel, to see what additional information is put forward from the NYS Education Department and the NYS Board of Regents, and to plan to further engage with our community stakeholders (parents, alumni, students, faculty/staff, and residents) regarding the new regulations," he wrote.

The Education Departments policy allows districts to keep their mascots or nicknames if they get the approval of a specific indigenous group. But the Oneida Indian Nation also released a statement saying it would not approve any requests to support a school district keeping a mascot that refers to indigenous people. Other nations released similar statements.

This issue is about how New York state views its responsibilities to an increasingly diverse population, said nation representative Ray Halbritter. The states directive promotes inclusivity and mutual respect, and is the best way to unify our communities moving forward.

Education Department officials say they expect some school districts will now take the matter to court. They also intend to send out details soon explaining the new rules to school boards.

In 2001, the state education commissioner told all school districts to drop indigenous-related sports mascots as soon as possible. But there were still dozens of such mascots throughout the state in 2021, when the Cambridge school board retired its Indians mascot.

Board members in the Washington County community had spent more than a year studying the issue and holding mediated meetings with the public, but residents vehemently rejected the decision at the ballot box. In that years school board election, residents overwhelmingly elected a slate of candidates who said they would reinstate the mascot. The new board took that action immediately, leading to an official complaint from residents who felt the vote should not have been overturned. Education Commissioner Betty Rosa weighed in, saying the original vote to retire the mascot must stand.

Cambridge went to court, where it lost. Rosa, citing the court decision, told every school district that it was time to drop their mascots.

Cambridge school board members have now filed an appeal of Acting Supreme Court Justice Sara McGintys decision.
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FORT EDWARD  Kaylin A. Gillis, the 20-year-old woman fatally shot Saturday evening after the car she was riding in with friends mistakenly turned into the wrong driveway in a rural Washington County town, died after she was struck by a slug fired from the homeowners shotgun, according to two people with knowledge of the matter.

Kevin D. Monahan, 65, is accused of firing two rounds at the vehicle that had pulled into his residential driveway in Hebron when the young group of friends became lost as they searched for another persons residence, police said.

The lead slug that allegedly killed Gillis is designed to kill large game and is roughly three times bigger than a round fired by a handgun. Monahan likely would not need a permit to possess that firearm, according to multiple law enforcement sources.

He was arrested over the weekend and is scheduled to appear in Washington County Court at 1 p.m. on Wednesday for a bail hearing with his attorney, Kurt G. Mausert. Monahan has been charged with second-degree murder. Mausert could not be reached for comment.

Sheriff officials on Monday said Monahan emerged from his home shortly before 10 p.m. on Saturday evening and fired twice at the car that Gillis and three friends were sitting in. Police have declined to confirm the type of firearm used in the incident.

Washington County Sheriff Jeffrey Murphy said Gillis and the others were looking for a friends house on Patterson Hill Road, about 19 miles northeast of Gillis residence in Schuylerville, when they drove up the long, unpaved driveway of the residence owned by Monahan and his wife, 69-year-old Polly Jinx Monahan, who is a counselor for the state Department of Labor. The couple have lived at the residence, which was built on 40 acres, for about 20 years, according to property records.

The unpaved private driveway is not lighted and the only markers are mailbox numbers along the public road. The couples home sits at the top of the steep, curving driveway that hides its porch and the front entrance of the house from view. The property has several faded signs warning against trespassing.

No one from the group had exited the car or tried to enter Monahans house, Murphy said on Monday. But as the car tried to turn around and leave to go back down the driveway, Monahan allegedly came out on his porch and fired twice  one of the rounds struck Gillis.

With Gillis gravely wounded, the group drove to Cemetery Road in the neighboring town of Salem, about 6 miles south of Monahans residence, at which time the shooting was reported to 911. Murphy did not say if the group was trying to get to a specific location but noted the area has poor cellular service. Emergency crews arrived and performed CPR on Gillis but she was declared dead at the scene.

Gillis father, Andrew Gillis, thanked supporters on Tuesday in a post on Facebook. He wrote that his daughter had planned on attending college in Florida to pursue a dream of becoming a marine biologist.

Kaylin was a kind, beautiful soul and a ray of light to anyone who was lucky enough to know her, he wrote. She was taken from us far too soon, and we are devastated. Our family will never be the same but we will be guided by Kaylins positivity, optimism, and joy as we learn to live with her loss.

In the wake of the shooting, there has been little information revealed publicly by law enforcement officials about what prompted Monahan to allegedly open fire on the car, or if they even know. Police sources told the Times Union that drugs, alcohol and mental illness are not believed to be factors in the homicide. Those sources also said there have not been any recent reports of burglaries or other incidents at the residence.

Monahan is a former motorcycle racer who runs a construction contracting business and has lived in Washington County for several decades.

Town Supervisor Brian Campbell said that several years ago Monahan used to occasionally attend town meetings, usually to seek information about minor issues like road repairs.

I hadnt seen him in a few years but he used to attend board meetings once in a while and he was always very reasonable, Campbell said. It kind of shocked me.

Campbell said its not unusual for residents in the rural community to post no trespassing signs on their property, because there are a lot of hunters in the area. Gillis and her friends must have just got on the wrong road in Hebron, which is easy to do, he added, noting many of the roads there are hilly, winding, dirt roads.

In a statement posted on the towns website, Campbell called it the saddest and most unexcusable event in the towns history.

I cant even fathom what would make a person shoot at a car that was in their driveway if they didnt even know the people in the car, the statement added.

After the shooting, someone else called police to report there had been shots fired at the Patterson Hill Road residence. Murphy said when officers arrived, Monahan refused to cooperate with deputies or come out of his home. Authorities spoke with him through a 911 dispatcher and in person for about an hour before he was taken into custody.

He was later taken into custody with the assistance of the New York State Police Special Operation Response Team after several hours, the sheriffs office in a news release.

Monahan is in the Warren County jail. The sheriff said it was an administrative decision to send Monahan to the Warren County jail. Public records indicate Gillis father is a correction officer at the Washington County jail.

One of the other people in the car was evaluated for a possible wound but was not injured.

She was an innocent young girl who was out with friends looking for another friends house, Murphy said at the Monday news conference. There was no reason for Mr. Monahan to feel threatened, he added.

Gillis death has shocked the small rural communities connected to the shooting. The news has also made national headlines as it happened two days after another disturbing act of gun violence when an elderly white Missouri man allegedly shot a Black teen in the head after the teen went to the wrong house to pick up his brother. The victim survived, despite being allegedly shot by the man a second time.

A GoFundMe account that was created to help Gillis family with funeral expenses had raised more than $86,000 as of Tuesday afternoon.

On behalf of the Gillis family, we would like to thank everyone who has offered their love and prayers as they embark on this incredibly difficult journey of grief and healing, the fundraisers wrote. Your kindness, prayers and love are felt by the Gillis family and everyone in the community that has suffered this tragic loss.

The Schuylerville Central School District, where Gillis graduated from high school in 2021, held a short news conference Tuesday afternoon to read comments from teachers who knew the 20-year-old.

They also showcased artwork that Gillis produced while she was at the high school. Superintendent Gregg Barthelmas said district officials have been in touch with the family and Gillis has siblings in the seventh and ninth grades at Schuylerville schools.

Theyre pretty devastated right now, Barthelmas said. We plan on going to see them tomorrow. Well just do our best to support them. We will be helping the family and working with (Gillis siblings) whenever they transition back.

Another administrator read a statement from teacher Mary Foote, who said she worked with Gillis in the Future Farmers of America program.

She was a friendly face in the classroom. She was kind, caring and compassionate. She really was a friend to all and cared about everyone around her, the statement read.

Barthelmas said the school board held a moment of silence Monday night. I ask that you keep the family in your thoughts and prayers, he said Tuesday. When the kids come back to school thats when theyre going to need us the most.

On Monday the Schuylerville Varsity Cheerleading Facebook page posted photos of Gillis when she was on the squad.

She was such a sweet girl, with a kind heart and big smile. She was always laughing, the teams statement read. Rest easy sweet girl, our hearts are broken.

An earlier version of this story listed the wrong caliber of the shotgun allegedly used in the killing of Kaylin Gillis.
Truth, its said, is the first casualty in war. So its no surprise that in the midst of its conflict with Ukraine, Russia would arrest and otherwise harass those who seek to find the truth and report it  that, is, journalists.

The March 29 arrest of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich is just one part of a chilling pattern that goes far beyond Vladimir Putin and his autocratic realm. Around the globe, including here in a nation whose Constitution prominently protects press freedom, politicians and other powerful people employ various tactics  from outright violence and legal retaliation to legislative harassment  to persecute and intimidate reporters and news organizations that call out their corruption.

Some, like Mr. Gershkovich, have been arrested. In 2022, 363 journalists were imprisoned, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists. Belarus added to this years growing numbers just last month when it sentenced two independent journalists to 12-year sentences, widely viewed as political retribution for their coverage of dissent against the countrys authoritarian ruler, Alyaksandr Lukashenko.

Some are killed, like Martinez Zogo of Cameroon, whom the Committee to Protect Journalists says became the fourth confirmed journalist to be murdered this year, following a year in which 41 were murdered. Mr. Zogo, who had been reporting on alleged corruption involving public funds, was found dead Jan. 23. His body showed extensive evidence of torture.

Americans should not take false comfort that this is something that happens only overseas. While official persecution of journalists may not be so brutal in this country, there are plenty of political figures who promote an anti-press narrative in America.

Former President Donald J. Trump, the current front-runner for the Republican Partys 2024 presidential nomination, made fake news a household term and frequently refers to the press as the enemy of the people  a phrase that echoes the rhetoric of Joseph Stalin, Mao Zedong, and Nazi propagandist Joseph Goebbels. In Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis and the Republican-controlled state Legislature appear poised to strip away some free-press protections in defamation lawsuits with a proposal that would deem comments from anonymous sources inherently false and repeal a state law that protects journalists from being compelled to identify confidential sources.

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It isnt just people in office who are on this anti-press offensive. Billionaire Elon Musk recently slapped a label of state-affiliated media on the Twitter account of National Public Radio, a designation normally associated with outlets controlled by or aligned with authoritarian governments. Twitter changed it later to government-funded media, but it was still misleading: Government funding represents only a small fraction of NPRs budget. The move was clearly an attempt by Mr. Musk to delegitimize public radio, a favorite target of conservatives.

These media-bashing figures certainly didnt invent anti-press sentiment. But they and too many other prominent names in American politics and culture eagerly amplify the animosity toward what the nations founders considered a vital pillar of a free, self-governing society. It should trouble us all that they embrace the spirit, if not the tactics, of corrupt oppressors around the world. Those who cheer them should beware: If truth is indeed the first casualty in war, the ultimate spoil is democracy itself.
ALBANY  Court of Appeals Associate Judge Rowan D. Wilson faced a smooth confirmation hearing to become the next chief judge of the states highest court on Monday, months after the same Senate panel had rejected the nomination of Judge Hector D. LaSalle in a politically charged proceeding.

Wilson received a positive recommendation from the Democrat-controlled state Senate Judiciary Committee following a three-hour hearing at the Capitol, in which he sought to describe himself as a pragmatic jurist who believes in upholding the legislative intent of state laws. He is expected to be confirmed by the full Senate on Tuesday.

The chief judge should be someone who is independent, impartial, said Wilson, who would become the first Black chief judge in New York.

Despite being characterized by legal scholars as liberal, he rejected any political leaning ascribed to how he rules from the bench.

When asked if he views himself as a judicial activist or a strict constructionist, he responded: I would not consider myself either. Instead, he used a label that he said Albany Law School students gave when he spoke to them: pragmatist.

Hes actually the opposite of a pragmatist, state Sen. Anthony H. Palumbo, ranking chairman on the Judiciary Committee, said after the hearing. Palumbo, like his Republican colleagues, cast Wilson as an activist judge who they said is more fit to be a law school professor.

During the hearing, Wilson urged the state lawmakers to move forward from the consternation over the recent rejection of LaSalle for the sake of the court. In his desire to look toward the future, Wilson said, he wants to see the Court of Appeals adjudicate more cases. He also pledged support for Family Court and courts that handle matters related to mental health and substance abuse.

Wilson was confirmed as an associate judge with the Court of Appeals in 2017. His background is in private practice. A fellow finalist for chief judge, Associate Judge Shirley Troutman, was in attendance for the confirmation hearing.

The hearing was held in a small, ornate room in the Capitol. It made for poor acoustics, challenging lawmakers to clearly hear Wilsons comments for the first hour of the hearing, until staff set up a microphone for him, which led to a round of applause. Initially, the Senates livestream of the hearing was barely audible.

The hearing for LaSalle, which took place in a larger space, drew hundreds to Albany both in support and opposition to his nomination. LaSalle presides over the largest state appellate division in the nation and would have become the first Latino chief judge in New York.

By the time Wilson came before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Monday, an apparent deal had already been struck between Gov. Kathy Hochul and Senate Democrats in the selection of not only the next chief judge, but also Wilsons replacement on the bench  former state Solicitor General Caitlin Halligan.

While Wilsons promotion from associate judge to chief judge on the Court of Appeals could represent a shift in the courts direction and how the entire state court system is run, Halligans confirmation would offer a new swing vote on the bench, especially on an upcoming redistricting case that has the potential to shift the balance of power in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Senate Republicans are very seriously considering filing a lawsuit that could halt Halligans confirmation. She is set for an 11 a.m. hearing by the Judiciary Committee on Tuesday, which would likely come after a full floor vote on Wilsons nomination as chief judge. A lawsuit, if filed, would likely be filed after Wilsons confirmation.

Republican lawmakers, and good government groups, have asserted a bill recently passed by the Legislature that changed the nominating process for judges on the states highest court is unconstitutional. The change was made at the behest of Gov. Kathy Hochul. It allows the governor to select a second judge from the list of chief judge candidates put forth by the Commission on Judicial Nomination if her pick for the chief judge  like it did in Wilson's case  creates a vacancy on the bench.

Legal scholars note that potential candidates who would want to apply for the job of associate judge, and not chief judge, have been denied their constitutional right to be considered for the position under the recent law change.

When asked if he had thoughts about the legality of the change to the judicial selection that led to him being nominated by the governor, he said: You know I cant answer that.
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ALBANY  New York lawmakers are beginning to grapple with the emergence of xylazine in illicit drug supplies as a public health threat sweeping both urban and rural areas across the state.

A handful of bills have surfaced in recent weeks attempting to combat the spread of tranq dope, a common term for the combination of fentanyl and xylazine that has spurred growing alarm as it infiltrates drug markets in major cities  including Philadelphia, New York City and other Northeast cities.

A measure introduced late last week by state Assemblyman John McDonald of Cohoes and state Sen. Pete Harckham of Westchester County would expand access to test strips that can detect the additives presence in drug supplies.

Xylazine is intended for use as an animal tranquilizer and is a common substance for veterinary practices. But because the drug is relatively easy to divert from legitimate providers, drug dealers have been cutting it into more popular substances, like heroin. Those mixtures usually contain some amount of fentanyl as well.

While fentanyl test strips have become widespread in counties  primarily distributed through harm reduction groups or other charitable organizations  xylazine test strips only recently became available. BTNX, a Canadian company specializing in rapid diagnostic tests, said last week it has begun producing commercially available test strips.

McDonald, who is a pharmacist, said the bill would allow more touchpoints for users to pick up a test kit for either substance since pharmacies are sometimes more readily accessible than another health care provider or community organization.

The bill would allow testing kits to be stored at any health care facility or any retail store that contains a pharmacy department. Users could pick up five kits at a time.

Its just one more tool in the shed, McDonald said. You cant ignore the fact that xylazine is on the streets,

McDonald said the state Department of Health would ideally create a standing order for the test strips with the state and federal sources covering the cost.

Molly McKay, a marketing manager with BTNX, said the biotech company has sold shipments to a number of groups based out of New York, primarily harm reduction and other health organizations. A box of 100 rapid testing xylazine strips would cost $200, McKay said.

Harckham said currently, only dedicated harm reduction organizations typically provide testing strips. But there are too few of them and theyre underfunded, Harckham said.

White House officials recently classified the additive as an emerging threat to the country, signaling measures to respond to xylazine will receive heightened federal attention in coming months. Members of Congress recently moved to designate the additive a controlled substance, which lawmakers said would allow officials to crack down on xylazine trafficking.

Though there have been few studies on the drug, anecdotal reports point to the combination of xylazine and fentanyl as potentially lethal. Fentanyl is itself an often-deadly substance that had previously been linked to a growing number of overdose fatalities in recent years, including thousands in New York state alone. Increasingly, opioid users have turned to the powerful synthetic opioid as their tolerance increases.

But while medication to reverse an opioid-related overdose has become more widely available, there is currently no similar antidote to reverse xylazine-related overdoses. Since xylazine is not an opiate, it does not respond to Narcan  meaning if someone overdoses on the additive without their knowledge, simply using Narcan might not be enough to reverse that overdose.

Known colloquially as tranq or tranq dope, the mixture causes grisly effects on the human body, including open sores that quickly develop into blackened and scabbed tissue  and in extreme cases leads to amputation.

The additive can also cause extreme drowsiness  its known as a zombie drug  and can cause users to experience a slowdown of their respiratory system and have coma-like side effects.

Local law enforcement and public health officials have urged federal and state action; Albany County Sheriff Craig Apple said he has noted the presence of the additive in several overdoses throughout the Capital Region.

Albany County officials will soon have a meeting with the state to determine how soon the county can begin receiving xylazine test strips, according to the county public health department.

Erin Clary, a Department of Health spokeswoman, said the state is in the process of acquiring xylazine test strips to distribute to the state's syringe service programs and drug user health hubs.
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In the latest news about the restaurant, food and wine scene in the Capital Region:

Less than a week after opening its fourth location, in downtown Troy, the locally owned quick-serve chain Herbies Burgers confirmed it is developing another, this time on Jay Street in downtown Schenectady.

Herbies is taking over 177 Jay St., former home of Raw Juice & Smoothie Bar, which appears to have closed late last year or early this year.

Nick Warchol, one of the partners who own Herbies, confirmed the project and said an opening is planned at some point over the summer. It will be the fifth location in less than three years.

Last week the team opened a Herbies at 415 Fulton St. in Troy, a former taxi stand that is next to the bar Whiskey Pickle. The partners in Herbies joined with the owners of Whiskey Pickle to buy the building last year.

Featuring a compressed menu of beef and vegan burgers, fries and shakes, Herbies is open from late morning until late night at most of its locations. The menu will be the same in Schenectady as at the other Herbies, including 1827 Guilderland Ave. in Guilderland, the Galleria 7 food court in Latham and the original, at 196 Lark St. in Albany.

Josh Coletto, the head chef at Nighthawks in Troy, has scheduled two pop-up dinners. This first is on Thursday of this week, when Dominic Russomanno will be the guest chef at Nighthawks. Coletto calls Russomanno a dear friend and chef who has worked with me as long as I have been running kitchens and says, His lasagna is my favorite Ive ever had, and everything he cooks is top notch.

The menu for Thursday, being dubbed a 4/20 Lasagna Party, includes lasagna, meatballs, salads, breads and many more hedonistic things for all youse. Service starts at 5 p.m. Call 518-272-1000 or reserve online. Nighthawks is at 461 Broadway.

The second event will feature Coletto cooking for a barbecue fundraiser from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 3, at the Elks Lodge, 25 S. Allen St., Albany. Proceeds will benefit CityLax, which offers free lacrosse in Albany, including equipment, twice-weekly practices and games, for kids from kindergarten through sixth grade.

The menu includes smoked brisket, smoked pork, mac-n-cheese, sweet-potato salad, veggies and more. Water and iced tea included, cash bar available. Dinners are $20 ($10 kids), and tickets will may be purchased at the door or online, with additional fees.

Finally, Adirondack Winery, with headquarters in Queensbury and its original tasting room in Lake George Village, this week its celebrating its 15th anniversary. It opened on April 17, 2008, selling 1,000 cases the first year and growing to 20,000 cases per year from more than 35 varietals. Its wine is sold at more than 500 stores and restaurants across New York and can be shipped to 35 states.

Last year the winery opened a $2.6 million, 14,100-square-foot winemaking facility and tasting room at its Queensbury headquarters, 395 Big Bay Road. The new building will allow the company to triple its wine production over the next 10 years.

Events this week at the Queensbury tasting room including dueling pianos and other live music, wood-fired pizza and brunch.
WFO AMARILLO Warnings, Watches and Advisories for Monday, April 17, 2023

_____

FIRE WEATHER WATCH

URGENT - FIRE WEATHER MESSAGE

National Weather Service Amarillo TX

Issued by National Weather Service Tulsa OK

307 PM CDT Mon Apr 17 2023

...RED FLAG WARNING IN EFFECT FROM NOON TO 9 PM CDT TUESDAY FOR

STRONG WINDS AND LOW RELATIVE HUMIDITY FOR NORTHWEST OKLAHOMA

PANHANDLE AND WEST AND CENTRAL PORTIONS OF THE TEXAS PANHANDLE...

...FIRE WEATHER WATCH IN EFFECT FROM WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON THROUGH

WEDNESDAY EVENING FOR STRONG WINDS AND LOW RELATIVE HUMIDITY FOR

NORTHWEST OKLAHOMA PANHANDLE AND WEST AND CENTRAL PORTIONS OF THE

TEXAS PANHANDLE...

The National Weather Service in Amarillo has issued a Red Flag

Warning for strong winds and low relative humidity, which is in

effect from noon to 9 PM CDT Tuesday. A Fire Weather Watch has

also been issued. This Fire Weather Watch for strong winds and

low relative humidity is in effect from Wednesday afternoon

through Wednesday evening. The Fire Weather Watch is no longer in

effect.

* Affected Area...In Oklahoma...Cimarron and Texas. In Texas...

Dallam...Sherman...Hansford...Hartley...Moore...Hutchinson...

Oldham...Potter...Carson...Deaf Smith...Randall...Armstrong

and Palo Duro Canyon.

* 20 Foot Winds...Southwest 20 to 25 mph with gusts up to 35 mph.

* Relative Humidity...As low as 5 percent.

* Red Flag Threat Index...4 to 7

* Timing...For the Red Flag Warning, 12pm to 9pm CDT, Tuesday. For

the Fire Weather Watch, 12pm to 9pm CDT, Wednesday.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions

are either occurring now...or will shortly. A combination of

strong winds...low relative humidity...and warm temperatures will

create favorable weather for rapid fire growth and spread. Avoid

activities that promote open flames and sparks.

A Fire Weather Watch means that the potential for critical fire

weather conditions exists. Listen for later forecasts and

possible red flag warnings.

_____

Copyright 2023 AccuWeather
The established hearing aid brand was founded in Chicago 83 years ago

CHICAGO, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Beltone, named America's #1 Hearing Care Retailer & Best in Customer Service by Newsweek, announced today that the Beltone US headquarters has returned to Chicago after spending over 17 years in Glenview, Illinois. Given how many Beltone employees reside in Chicagoland and Beltone's rich history in Chicago, it was a clear decision to return to its roots.

Beltone Logo (PRNewsfoto/Beltone)

The Beltone legacy began in 1940 when founders Sam and Faye Posen opened its first hearing aid store in a modest building in downtown Chicago's "Loop". As the company grew into a nationally recognized brand, Beltone moved its headquarters to Chicago's north side to accommodate its manufacturing and research and development needs. In 2005, Beltone headquarters relocated to Glenview where it remained until early this year. The vibrance of Chicago's Fulton Market, along with Chicago's many amenities and attractions that employees, customers, and business partners desire, led to envisioning the space at 656 W. Randolph as Beltone's new headquarters.

Another benefit of the move, Beltone, part of the GN Group, has the amazing opportunity to work more closely with renowned GN brand SteelSeries, a leading gaming and esports peripherals manufacturer. Beltone, SteelSeries, and the GN Hearing US Research & Development team are now in the same building at 656 W. Randolph.

"Our new headquarters in this modern and invigorating space is the perfect place to continue Beltone's legacy in Chicago," says Beltone President of North America, David Molella. "We're also very excited about the increased collaboration across the business that this move will foster."

For those looking to join a high-tech, innovative, and award-winning company that changes lives, you can check out openings for Beltone corporate and Beltone Hearing Centers nationwide by visiting www.beltone.com/careers.

Story continues

Beltone headquarters is now located at 656 W. Randolph St. #2E, Chicago, IL 60661.

About Beltone

For more than 80 years, Beltone has been one of the nation's most trusted and leading hearing care provider. In addition to providing some of the most reliable, affordable, and advanced hearing aids, we also pride ourselves on serving as a partner to our patients every step of the way during their hearing health journey. With approximately 1,500 Beltone locations nationwide, each office is a local business part of the community it serves and the hearing care professional and staff at your local Beltone will get to know you to provide a personalized experience during your journey to better hearing. And with a nationwide network, you can expect this level of personalized service wherever you go. Our Beltone hearing care professionals receive extensive training and education, so they are always equipped with the latest knowledge to bring you the best care. Proudly part of the GN Group, Beltone continues to focus on the needs of our patients through the research and development of innovative new hearing technologies to allow you to hear what truly matters the most. To learn more, please visit us at www.beltone.com and on LinkedIn.

Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/beltone-returns-to-its-roots-in-downtown-chicago-301799487.html

SOURCE Beltone
Celebrations are underway in Borrisokane after a local shop was revealed as the selling location for last Saturdays Daily Millions top prize ticket worth 1,000,000.

Spar in Borrisokane sold the all-important winning ticket, which is now worth one million euro to one lucky player.

Michael O'Brien, Owner of Spar in Borrisokane, expressed his excitement of the win:

"Were a busy shop in the town and get a lot of passing trade, but we really hope it's a local whos won the prize! There's great excitement in the store at the moment as news is filtering out that we sold the winning ticket.

"Customers are flying in and out the door, checking their tickets and asking all sorts of questions! Its created great buzz in the town altogether.

"Its nice to get some good positive news for a change and were absolutely delighted to be part of it. Were delighted for the winner and wish them the very best of luck with their nice windfall and hope they spend it wisely!, said Mr O'Brien.

The winning numbers for Saturdays (April 15) 2pm Daily Millions draw were: 4, 16, 22, 29, 37, 38 and the bonus was 10.

The National Lottery has confirmed its still waiting to hear from the winner, and are urging all of its Daily Millions players, especially in Tipperary, to check their tickets carefully to make sure they dont miss out on the incredible 1,000,000 prize.

The Borrisokane ticketholder is advised to sign the back of their winning ticket and to keep it safe. The winner should make contact with the National Lottery prize claims team on 1800 666 222 or email claims@lottery.ie and arrangements will be made for them to claim their prize.

Michael O'Brien (Owner) and Mary Grace (Field Sales Representative, National Lottery)

Michael and Owner of Spar in Borrisokane, is pictured celebrating with and Mary Grace (Field Sales Representative, National Lottery) as their store was revealed as the winning location for last Saturdays 2pm Daily Millions top prize ticket worth 1,000,000. Pic: Odhran Ducie / Mac Innes Photography.





A National Lottery spokesperson said:

Its been an incredible start to the year for Daily Millions players as theres been six top prize wins in the Daily Millions game alone since January. So far this year, three players from Dublin (2) and Tipperary have scooped the Daily Millions Top Prize of 1,000,00, while three players from Louth and Dublin (2) scored the Daily Millions Plus top prize of 500,000.

"We are still waiting to hear from our latest winner in Borrisokane, Co. Tipperary, so were encouraging all of our Daily Million players check their tickets carefully to see if theyve won the incredible 1,000,000 prize. The winner should sign the back of their ticket, keep it somewhere safe and make contact with our prize claims team so that arrangements can be made for them to claim their life-changing prize.

Full Caption: Photo Caption: Michael O'Brien, Owner of Spar in Borrisokane, is pictured celebrating with staff as his store was revealed as the winning location for last Saturdays 2pm Daily Millions top prize ticket worth 1,000,000. Photography: MacInnes Photography.
The release of paramilitary prisoners as part of the Good Friday Agreement was horrible, but necessary, Sir Tony Blair has said.

Former taoiseach Bertie Ahern added that if the decision had not been taken in 1998, there would never have been a peace deal in Northern Ireland.

The two leaders, who signed the historic agreement, were addressing a group of school pupils in Belfast.

They were asked about the decision to release paramilitary prisoners, one of the most controversial aspects of the deal.

Sir Tony said: It was horrible, but necessary is my answer.

What I found was that the most difficult conversations I ever had were with the families of the victims.

They always divided into two categories of people. There were people who literally found it unforgiveable, that you released the people who murdered their loved ones.

Many of these people were killed just by being in the wrong place at the wrong time, it wasnt that they were targets.

Some people found it unforgivable while what other people said was, I cant ever forget what has happened but if you can tell me that your agreement will mean that someone else doesnt suffer in the way that Ive suffered, then you go and do it.

But youve got to make sure it lasts and it works.

The former prime minister added: A lot of people are cynical about politics because they dont understand when you actually are in a position of political leadership, if the decisions were easy, life would be so much simpler.

But they are not. It is really difficult.

In the end, youve got to take a decision, and the moment you decide, you will divide.

Thats what leadership is about.

We werent indifferent to it but what we were trying to think is how do we prevent this happening in the future.

Ultimately, if you want to make change you are going to have to do things which are difficult and sometimes take risks, it can be a very ugly business when you are dealing with the families who have lost their loved ones in terrible acts of violence, that is the most difficult thing.

But if you are going to be honest about what the future has to look like, you are going to have to take those decisions.

Mr Ahern said there were a number of parts of the agreement that they didnt feel great about.

He added: If we didnt do it we wouldnt have had an agreement, that is the straight and honest answer.

I dont ever remember Tony Blair opening a champagne bottle to say to me, lets have a drink, were going to release the prisoners.

It was a huge decision and I didnt have nearly as many prisoners.

But I remember having to go back and meet some of the families of members of the Garda Siochana, the Irish police force, and tell them I am going to release these guys who got 40 years for killing your dad, but they have only served six or seven.

Mr Ahern said: It was something that was necessary like a lot of the hard compromises.

I can tell you we werent celebrating, but as part of the overall collective issues that we were dealing with, which were huge  that was one of the difficult ones.
[April 18, 2023] ExaGrid Named a Finalist for the Storage Awards 2023

ExaGrid, the industry's only Tiered Backup Storage solution, today announced that it has been nominated in 13 categories for the 20th annual Storage Awards. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005066/en/ (Graphic: Business Wire) ExaGrid has become a finalist in the following categories: "One to watch" - Vendor

Immutable Storage Company of the Year

Storage Marketing Team of the Year

Contribution to the Storage Industry - ExaGrid - Paul Mitchell

Ransomware Protection Company of the Year

Data Protection Company of the Year

Enterprise Backup Hardware Vendor of the Year

Hybrid Storage Vendor of the Year

Storage Optimisation Company of the Year

Capacity Storage Vendor of the Year

Channel Partner Program of the Year

Storage Product of the Year

Storage Company of the Year



Voting to determine the winner in each category is underway now and closes on May 31, 2023. Winners of this year's awards will be announced at "The Storries XX" awards ceremony held in London on June 8, 2023. "We are pleased to take part in the Storage Awards as it celebrates its 20th year," said Bill Andrews, President and CEO of ExaGrid. "We are honored to be nominated in so many categories, which include recognition of our channel program and individual members of the ExaGrid Team, as well as our industry-leading Tiered Backup Storage solution."

Paul Mitchell, ExaGrid Territory Sales Manager in the UK region, said, "I am incredibly honored to be nominated for the 'Contribution to the Storage Industry' award and grateful for the recognition. Many thanks to my partners in the channel who are key to success in bringing ExaGrid's Tiered Backup Storage to our growing customer base, especially in the UK." About ExaGrid ExaGrid provides Tiered Backup Storage with a unique disk-cache Landing Zone, long-term retention repository, and scale-out architecture. ExaGrid's Landing Zone provides for the fastest backups, restores, and instant VM recoveries. The Repository Tier offers the lowest cost for long-term retention. ExaGrid's scale-out architecture includes full appliances and ensures a fixed-length backup window as data grows, eliminating expensive forklift upgrades and product obsolescence. ExaGrid offers the only two-tiered backup storage approach with a non-network-facing tier, delayed deletes, and immutable objects to recover from ransomware attacks. ExaGrid has physical sales and pre-sales systems engineers in the following countries: Argentina, Australia, Benelux, Brazil, Canada, Chile, CIS, Colombia, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Iberia, India, Israel, Japan, Mexico, Nordics, Poland, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, and other regions. Visit us at exagrid.com and connect with us on LinkedIn. See what our customers have to say about their own ExaGrid experiences and learn why they now spend significantly less time on backup storage in our customer success stories. ExaGrid is proud of our +81 NPS score! ExaGrid is a registered trademark of ExaGrid Systems, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective holders. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005066/en/

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[April 17, 2023] Ivy Kids Donates 68,500 Diapers to Southwest Houston Community

Ivy Kids Early Learning Center, a premier early childhood education provider headquartered in Houston, partnered with Connect Community to collect a total of 68,500 diapers for families in the Gulfton/Sharpstown area. This cause aligns with Ivy Kids' mission to support the health and development of children, allowing them to grow to their fullest potential. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230417005803/en/ Ivy Kids CEO Amyn Bandali and Shamsa Winnegar, director of development and partnerships at Connect Community, help distribute diaper donations to families in the Gulfton/Sharpstown area of Houston. (Photo: Business Wire) Parents, students and staff at the 10 Houston-area Ivy Kids Early Learning Center locations participated in the inaugural Ivy Kids Diaper Drive Challenge by donating diapers of all sizes over a five-week period. On April 15, Ivy Kids buses brought loads of diapers to the donation site at Gabriela Mitral Center for Early Childhood to distribute to families.



The donation event was coordinated by Connect Community, a local community development organization based in Gulfton/Sharpstown, a majority newcomer immigrant and refugee community home to over 18,000 residents and 26 schools. Connect Community works to engage Gulfton's richly diverse residents and partners to create a thriving, walkable neighborhood with successful cradle-to-career education programs, ample employment opportunities, vibrant green spaces and high-quality mixed-income housing options. "At Ivy Kids, we strive to make a difference in the lives of children," said Ivy Kids CEO Amyn Bandali. "Thanks to the support from the Connect Community team and all our Ivy Kids families and staff, we are happy to be able to meet a need for children in our community."

According to the Texas Diaper Bank, one in three families do not have access to an adequate supply of diapers, which can cost around $125 per month for one child. Ivy Kids' effort to help provide families with clean diapers was inspired by their World Changers Program, where students learn about leaders who have made a difference in their community and the world at large. "We believe working together brings about lasting change to the communities we serve in Gulfton," said Shamsa Winnegar, director of development and partnerships at Connect Community. "Approximately 400 new babies are born each month in the neighborhood. By partnering with Ivy Kids to support this cause, we are providing our families-in-need with resources to nurture the health and well-being of their babies - Gulfton's future leaders." Click here to download images and footage from Ivy Kids' Diaper Drive donation on April 15. About Ivy Kids A premier early childhood education provider, Ivy Kids Early Learning Center is committed to fostering optimal children's development by combining modern curricula with a fun, safe and nurturing learning environment. Along with infant through pre-K educational programs, Ivy Kids offers before and after-school services, as well as summer and holiday camps. Founded in 2005, the company has since grown to encompass 18 facilities in and around the Houston, San Antonio and Dallas areas, and opening soon in the suburbs of Atlanta. More information is available at www.ivykids.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230417005803/en/

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[April 17, 2023] AtomBeam, a leading data compaction company, surpasses $1.3M in investments on StartEngine

MORAGA, Calif., April 17, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via InvestorWire -- AtomBeam, whose Compaction product massively drives efficiency in data transmission and storage, announces today that it has raised $1.3 million in its current crowdfunding campaign on StartEngine. This milestone marks a significant achievement for the company and its growing investor community. "We are thrilled to see the continued support of our investors, who recognize the potential of AtomBeam's technology to revolutionize how virtually every machine talks to another machine," said Charles Yeomans, CEO of AtomBeam. "This successful raise brings us one step closer to achieving our engineering goals and driving adoption of our technology." AtomBeam's Compaction is poised to disrupt how connected machines, the Internet of Things, communicate. With its ability to reduce the amount of data that needs to be transmitted by an average of 75%, AtomBeam's technology offers significant cost and efficiency benefits to businesses and consumers alike. Imagine your phone could send and receive data four times faster just with a software upgrade, Mr. Yeomans said. Compaction does that b squeezing out all the inefficiencies in data transmission, and it does it so fast all you experience is, Wow!



AtomBeam invites investors to join its growing community on StartEngine and be a part of the company's exciting journey. The company is committed to developing cutting-edge solutions that solve real-world problems and create meaningful impact. Investors interested in learning more about AtomBeam and its innovative technology can visit the crowdfunding campaign page at https://www.startengine.com/offering/atombeam .

About AtomBeam AtomBeam Technologies Inc. is a leading data compaction company, and its technology reduces the amount of data that needs to be transmitted by an average of 75%, offering significant cost and efficiency benefits to businesses and consumers. Company Contact:

Charles Yeomans

CEO

AtomBeam

[email protected] Wire Service Contact:

InvestorWire (IW)

Los Angeles, California

www.InvestorWire.com

212.418.1217 Office

[email protected]



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[April 17, 2023] Europe's Top 5 Aerospace & Defense Companies - Annual Strategy Dossier 2023 - Key Strategies, Plans, SWOT, Trends & Growth Avenues and Market Outlook-Airbus, BAE Systems, Rolls Royce, Leonardo, Safran

DUBLIN, April 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Europe's Top 5 Aerospace & Defense Companies - Annual Strategy Dossier - 2023 - Key Strategies, Plans, SWOT, Trends & Growth Avenues and Market Outlook - Airbus, BAE Systems, Rolls Royce, Leonardo, Safran" company profile has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. Global Defense Spending on a Historic High and Poised for Rapid, Medium-Term Growth:



Global Defense Spending has been on a clear upswing and is at a historic high now, having breached the $2 trillion threshold in 2021, led by the whittling down of traditional, rule-based world order and the return of great power competition among leading geopolitical powers marked by sustained geopolitical instability, rising political tensions and conflicts. The Russia-Ukraine war has been a watershed moment, or 'Zeitenwende', geopolitically having brought back the spectre of war over Europe back to life after almost 3 decades following Russia's military resurgence and is showing no signs of abating even after heading into its second year. Russia's looming threat and ongoing antics in Ukraine have effectively led to a renaissance in defense spending across Europe with surging defense budgets & overhaul of defense industrial base for the rapid production ramp-up required after decades of operating in the hibernation mode.



Revitalization of the European Defense Industrial Base Underway



The revitalization of the European defense industrial base is in full swing amid increasing threat perceptions from Russia, historic low inventory levels of munitions & missiles across NATO members following years of neglect, rapid shift in strategic defense posture across some nations and focus on preparedness with plans for replacement & modernization of ageing, cold-war era defense equipment which is likely to provide growth opportunities to European OEMs & their value chains going forward. Leapfrogging of technological capabilities is also very much there in the European agenda following the initiation of a number of new, joint defense programs across the old continent, led by the Franco-German FCAS & MGCS programs, and the Anglo-Japanese 6th generation fighter jet aircraft program. It is in addition to the outright procurement of in-production defense equipment from the other side of the Atlantic to ensure ready availability and Interoperability with NATO forces. For instance, the 5th generation F-35 Lightning II JSF has steadily been expanding its customer base across Europe with Switzerland, Poland, Finland, Czech Republic and now Germany choosing the F-35 platform as a replacement for their ageing, legacy fighter jets while the CH-47F Chinook has been procured by a couple of European nations recently for the combat proven heavy lift capability



Defense Industrial Base Globally Growth-Bound and Geared towards Rapid Ramp-Up of Production Rates while Facing Near-Term Supply Chain & Macroeconomic Challenges:



The ongoing U.S. & NATO military assistance to Ukraine from existing stocks needing backfilling of inventories, the focus of U.S. defense spending towards maintaining traditional overmatch over adversaries focused on developing next generation capabilities through accelerated R&D pursuits and the need for replacement of ageing defense equipment with next generation systems & technologies have collectively been driving the significant increase in investment outlay towards defense backed by steady increases in U.S. defense budget over the recent years. Europe, under NATO, is treading a similar pathway with defense spending by NATO alliance members having grown by 23% over 2018-2022 with focus on getting the defense spending to the 2% of GDP level which has been achieved by a majority of NATO membrs by 2022 marking a renaissance for the European defense industrial base after decades of slump & neglect







The defense industrial base across the U.S. & Europe is gearing up to rapidly ramp-up production rates over near term to backfill depleting U.S. & NATO allies' stockpiles of munitions, missiles & weapon systems following the extraordinary rate at which they are being used in Ukraine , given that almost 13 years worth of Javelin & Stinger stocks have already been utilized, and to meet growing international demand for them following the return of the era of great power competition. The global defense spending, thus, is projected to reach the record $2.5 trillion level by 2027 following a virtual defense renaissance globally with the industry gearing up to ramp up production rates to unprecedented rates & levels over near to medium term



Against this backdrop, the report analyzes & provides:





1. Overall Strategy Focus & Key Strategies & Plans being chalked out by the Europe's Top 5 Aerospace & Defense companies

2. Insights into Key Industry, Market & Technology Trends likely to shape the future of the Global Aerospace & Defense industry over medium term

3. Outlining of Emerging, Potential Growth Opportunities

4. Identifies Key Driving & Restraining Forces Impacting the Industry & assesses their potential Degree of Impact through a Comprehensive Force Field Analysis

5. Provides an overview of Key, Upcoming Defense Programs

6. Analysis of Defense Budgets & Overall Budgetary Trend across Key Nations

7. In-Focus, Emerging, Game-Changer Technologies

8. Comprehensive Outlook & Medium-Term Demand Growth Projections for the Global Aerospace & Defense industry



Relevance & Usefulness:



The report provides insights & inputs to be incorporated into the broader strategic planning & decision making processes: Strategic Planning & Market Analysis Purposes

Identification of the degree of Congruence between Emerging Market Landscape & Strategy focus

Identifying & highlighting areas for making potential Strategic Changes, Adjustments & Realignment

Analysis of Forces Driving as well as restraining the Industry & their overall Dynamics through a Force Field Analysis

Analysis of Market Evolution with Medium Term Demand Growth Projections & Market Outlook For Whom: Key Decision-Makers across Industry Value Chain



The report will be essential & a key resource for those associated with and having strategic interest in the European/Global Aerospace & Defense Industry. The report will be especially useful for: Key Decision-Makers across the Aerospace & Defense Industry

Defense Procurement Executives & Defense Departments

Program Offices & Program Managers

Top Management of Industry OEMs, Players across Industry Value Chain & Other Companies

Suppliers, Vendors, Technology & Services Providers and other Key Players in the Industry Value Chain

Existing & Potential Investors

Industry & Company Analysts

M&A Advisory Firms

Strategy & Management Consulting Firms

PE Firms, Venture Capitalists and Financing & Leasing Companies

Researchers and all those associated with the industry in general Key Topics Covered:



Section - 1 Business Structure & Snapshot - For each of the Europe's Top 5 Aerospace & Defense Companies Founded

Headquartered

Business Segments

Employees

Revenues

Market Capitalization

Key Executives

Shareholding/Ownership Pattern & Structure Section - 2 Financial Performance Snapshot - For each Industry OEM Revenue Base & Growth Trend

Revenues Split by Key Segments

Revenues Split by Key Geographic Markets & Regions

Gross Earnings & Margin Trend

Operating Earnings & Operating Margin Trend

Return on Sales Trend

Profitability Growth Trend

Cash Flow from Operations

R&D Expenditure Trend

CAPEX Trend

Order Intake Trend

Order Backlog Position & Growth Trend Section - 3 SWOT Analysis - For each of the Top 5 Industry Players Strengths to be Leveraged

Weaknesses to be worked on

Opportunities to be capitalized upon

Threats to be negated & mitigated Section - 4 Strategy Focus across OEMs - Near to Medium Term - For the Top 5 European A&D Primes Airbus SE

BAE Systems plc

Rolls Royce Holdings plc

Safran SA

Leonardo S.p.A. Section - 5 Analysis of Key Strategies & Plans for the A&D OEMs Analysis Coverage:

Business and Product Portfolio Strategies & Plans

Market, Segment, Domain & Program Specific Strategies & Plans

R&D Strategies & Plans

Growth Strategies & Plans

Business and Corporate Strategies & Plans

Sales & Marketing Strategies & Plans

Production/Manufacturing Strategies & Plans

Financial Strategies & Plans

Portfolio Adjustment & Realignment based on Acquisitions, Strategic Alliances & JVs

Other Strategies & Strategic Initiatives Section - 6 Global Aerospace & Defense Industry - Force Field Analysis - Analysis of Driving & Restraining Forces and their Overall Dynamics Driving Forces

Restraining Forces Section - 7 Key Trends Industry Trends

Market Trends

Technology Trends Section - 8 Key Issues, Challenges & Risk Factors



Section - 9 Latest & Upcoming European Defense Programs - Program Factsheets & Analysis Program Size

Scale & Scope

Competing OEMs

Program Stage & Status

Contract Awards

Latest Developments

Upcoming Milestones

Program Outlook Section - 10 Strategic Market Outlook - Global Aerospace & Defense Market - 2023-2027 Analysis of Emerging Market Scenario for Aerospace & Defense

U.S. & Global Defense Spending Trends

Top 5 & Top 10 Defense Spending Nations

Market Outlook & Growth Projections

Global Defense Spending - Trends & Projections - 2023-2027

Global Defense Spending & Growth Rates for Key Regions

U.S.

Europe

Asia-Pacific

Middle East Companies Mentioned Airbus SE

BAE Systems plc

Rolls Royce Holdings plc

Safran SA

Leonardo S.p.A. For more information about this company profile visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/5hdbu8 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 View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/europes-top-5-aerospace--defense-companies---annual-strategy-dossier-2023---key-strategies-plans-swot-trends--growth-avenues-and-market-outlook-airbus-bae-systems-rolls-royce-leonardo-safran-301798972.html SOURCE Research and Markets

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[April 17, 2023] InvestCloud Announces Executive Leadership Changes

InvestCloud, the global software-as-a-service (SaaS) leader in digital transformation for the wealth management industry, today announced that Chief Executive Officer John Wise has left the Company. Richard Lumb, a current director on the InvestCloud Board of Directors and experienced leader in the financial services industry, has been appointed interim Chief Executive Officer. The Board also has initiated a comprehensive search for a permanent Chief Executive Officer. "As a SaaS platform built for the financial services industry, InvestCloud has a unique and compelling value proposition in solving the persistent and complex digital challenges across the industry. We believe that now is the time to set the company up for its next stage of growth," said Rob Heyvaert, Chairman of InvestCloud's Board of Directors. "Richard's extensive knowledge of InvestCloud's business, people, and customers, along with his deep industry expertise, make him the right leader during this transition." "I am excited to step into this role at a key moment for InvestCloud," said Mr. Lumb. "We believe the company is the SaaS leader in digital transformation and is changing how the world's banks, wealth and asset managers work. The InvestCloud product, technology and team are world class, and I could not be more excited about the growth opportunity facing the company." Richard Lumb has been a member of InvestCloud's Board of Directors since February 2021, and brings four decades of experience within financial services to the role. Richard was Group Chief Executive - Financial Services and a member of the Executive Leadership team at Accenture. He led the acquisitio of Duck Creek Technologies, now the SaaS leader in the insurance industry, and served on its Board from 2011 to 2019, including as Chairman from 2011 to 2016.



Richard has been an Industry Partner at specialist fintech private equity firm Motive Partners since 2019. He also sits on the Board of Directors at Bakkt and was previously on the Board of Finastra. Richard's prior experience leading technology-focused and SaaS firms provides him a strong foundation for launching InvestCloud into its next growth chapter, given his deep understanding of the financial services industry and customer needs. In the 13 years since its founding, InvestCloud's platform has proven itself as a global leader in digital transformation, with clients including more than 150 asset managers, more than 400 wealth managers and more than 140,000 individual financial advisers supporting $6.5 trillion in assets under management and 27.4 million accounts. Most recently, the Company launched InvestCloud X - its largest innovation to date. With three revolutionary products in one, InvestCloud X combines: a Digital Communication platform transforming the way advisors interact with clients, a Digital Planning platform designed to cover the simplest to the most sophisticated needs of all investors, as well as a Digital Shopping platform for financial products called the Financial Supermarket.

About InvestCloud InvestCloud is a global company specializing in digital platforms that enable the development of financial solutions, pre-integrated into the cloud. The company offers on-demand client experiences and intuitive operations solutions using an ever-expanding suite of modular apps, resulting in powerful products including Communication (client portals, advisor portals, mobility and more), Planning (goal-based, cashflow, digital advice, proposals and more), Shopping & Selling (digital marketplace for financial products) and the App Library (IBOR, ABOR, performance and more). Headquartered in Los Angeles, InvestCloud has over 20 global offices including New York, London, Geneva, Singapore, Tokyo, and Sydney, supporting trillions in assets across hundreds of diverse clients - from the largest banks in the world to wealth managers, asset managers and asset services companies. InvestCloud's clients today include over 150 asset managers, over 400 wealth managers and over 140,000 individual financial advisers. In North America alone, InvestCloud has eight of the top 10 US banks and seven of the top 10 US managed account sponsors. For more information, visit InvestCloud.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230417005892/en/

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[April 17, 2023] Cainiao Vietnam pledges to enhance supply chain in Vietnam with its premium warehousing facilities

HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- With the launch of premium warehouse facilities in strategic locations, Cainiao Vietnam, a subsidiary of Cainiao Network, the logistics arm of Alibaba Group, is meaningfully contributing to the development of the logistics sector in Vietnam. It also aims to serve the needs of Vietnam-based businesses to optimize their supply chain, boost accessibility of logistics operations, and improve customer experience and efficiency. Experience the full interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/9158751-Cainiao-Vietnam-supplychain-logistics-warehousing/ Home to more than 900,000 small and medium enterprises nd sitting at the heart of the AsiaPacific region, Vietnam has long been a major transportation and logistics hub for domestic and multinational corporations to reach major markets such as China and other Southeast Asian countries. Bolstered by the country's strong GDP growth rate of 8% in 2022, thriving e-commerce, and strong manufacturing activities, logistic and warehouse industry contributed 4.5% to Vietnam's GDP and was poised to grow at a CAGR of over 6.69% until 2029.



However, despite its huge potentials, the logistics and warehousing sector in Vietnam still faces tremendous challenges due to lack of high-quality facilities, limited services, high costs, and insufficient infrastructure capabilities. In recent years, businesses and logistic companies in Binh Duong and inner Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) regions have had to rethink supply chain and operation strategies due to growing pressure on traffic, increasing land costs, hence storage costs, and limited space for future expansion. As a result, to enhance their competitiveness and ensure cost-efficient and undisrupted operations, increasing number of businesses are looking for alternative locations and logistic services within the Greater Ho Chi Minh City region.

Within the context, Cainiao PAT Logistics Park in Long An Province, and Cainiao Dong Nai Smart Logistics Park in Dong Nai are poised to meet the growing demands of businesses that have key customer audiences in inner HCMC, Western HCMC and the Mekong Delta area. Thanks to prime locations providing multi-way access to HCMC, the upcoming Long Thanh International Airport, Cat Lai port and VICT port, the logistic parks provide much-needed services within the bustling industrial clusters and ecosystem in the region. The company's recent deals with leading industry players such as OOCL and VSICO are testament to the value of Cainiao Network. Both OOCL and VSICO are established and high-ranking 3PL logistics corporations whose end-customers are also leading corporations in various sectors and origins. With Cainiao Network's state-of-the-art infrastructure, premium quality warehouse, efficient property management, professional customer services, and technical assistance, OOCL and VSICO can reduce their overall logistics costs and streamline their operations to fuel further business growth. With its continuous efforts, Cainiao Network is proud to contribute to optimizing Vietnam's supply chain in various industries including FMCG, retailing, automotive, home appliances, and F&B chains, allowing its clients to leverage its services and extensive networks, and bringing new businesses to current and prospective tenants. Cainiao Network is confident to support businesses in Vietnam with their logistics and warehousing needs and bring better logistics solutions to its clients and Vietnamese consumers. About Cainiao Network: Founded in 2013, Cainiao Network ("Cainiao") is a smart logistics company and the logistics arm of Alibaba Group. As part of its commitment to create customer value, it adopts a collaborative approach to logistics that aims to improve efficiency and customer experience for all players along the supply chain. It carries forward Alibaba's mission of making it easy to do business anywhere by aiming to deliver anywhere in China within 24 hours, and across the globe within 72 hours. For further information, visit www.cainiaovietnam.com Contact: Leasing inquiries: Kathy Nguyen +84 866 78 78 60 [email protected] Media Contact: Semantha Tan [email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/cainiao-vietnam-pledges-to-enhance-supply-chain-in-vietnam-with-its-premium-warehousing-facilities-301799603.html SOURCE Cainiao Vietnam

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[April 18, 2023] Shinji Tsukamoto former Amazon Vice President appointed to Global Chief Commercial Officer at Persefoni

Accomplished executive will shepherd rapid growth delivering carbon visualization software in Japan and throughout APAC TEMPE, Ariz., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Persefoni, a global leader in climate data disclosure and management, today announced that Shinji Tsukamoto, former Vice President Asia Pacific at Amazon Ads, has been appointed as Global Chief Commercial Officer & President, APAC. Shinji will lead the company's strategic growth initiatives globally, especially both Japan and the APAC region, serving enterprises requiring carbon management and accounting software. Accomplished executive will shepherd rapid growth delivering carbon visualization software in Japan and throughout APAC Prior to Persefoni, Shinji led the launch and expansion of Amazon Japan's advertising business. He first joined Amazon Ads Japan as General Manager/Director and was then appointed as Japan Country Manager after playing a key role in launching the business. Previously, Shinji founded the premium travel service, DUFL Inc., in the U.S. and served as the President for International Business. Before that, he held various executive positions a Mitsui & Co., Critical Path, Microsoft Advertising Japan, and Limelight Networks Japan. He has served as board member of Japan Internet Advertising Association (JIAA) and on the advisory board of ad:tech Tokyo, contributing to the development of internet advertising.



Persefoni's award-winning Climate Management & Accounting Platform (CMAP) software is not only translated into Japanese, but the company has a considerable track record of investment in the market, including strategic partnerships with such respected market leaders as SCSK, Hitachi, NTT Communications, SMBC, IBM, and more. "I am excited to be joining Persefoni, not only returning to my roots building market-creating enterprise software, but to work on this truly important challenge of developing climate tech tools for our global markets facing environmental concerns," said Shinji. "Decarbonization is imperative and disclosure is quickly becoming mandatory around the globe; both are much harder to navigate successfully without software tools like those championed by Persefoni.

"What Persefoni has built is truly impressive: the technology, the team, and the partner ecosystem. I have already hit the ground running." "We are very fortunate to have a leader of Shinji's experience join Persefoni," said Kentaro Kawamori, Persefoni CEO & Co-founder. "He has extensive experience leading iconic brands in the region, a compelling track record for delivering highly efficient software solutions, and success building category-creating markets. He's tailor-made for this stage in Persefoni's APAC growth, and we're very pleased to have him leading our efforts." About Persefoni Persefoni's Climate Management & Accounting Platform (CMAP) provides businesses, financial institutions, and governmental agencies the software fabric for managing their organization's climate-related data, disclosures, and performance with the same level of rigor and confidence as their financial reporting systems. The company's software enables users to simplify the calculation of their carbon footprint, identify decarbonization strategies and perform climate trajectory modeling aligned to temperature rise scenarios set forth by the Paris agreement, and benchmark their impact by region, sector, and/or peer groups. For more information about Persefoni, please visit https://persefoni.com/ View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/shinji-tsukamoto-former-amazon-vice-president-appointed-to-global-chief-commercial-officer-at-persefoni-301799139.html SOURCE Persefoni

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[April 18, 2023] INALSA Launches New Range of Wet & Dry Vacuum Cleaners

NEW DELHI, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- INALSA has expanded its current range of vacuum cleaners with launch of 3 new models of wet & dry vacuum cleaners. These vacuum cleaners are launched in 3 capacity namely, 12 Ltr, 20 Ltr & 25 Ltr and all of these comes with stainless steel tank. With these launches, INALSA now has one of the largest number of vacuum cleaners in Wet & Dry Segment with 10 Ltr & 15 Ltr which was already in their range. INALSA Vacuum Cleaner Price & Availability: INALSA is offering up to 60% discount on its newly launched vacuum cleaner range as an introductory offer for its customers. The new range of vacuum cleaners can be purchased online from Amazon or Flipkart and is also available in offline market for customers to buy. INALSA Wet & Dry Vacuum Cleaner Features: WET AND DRY: The new range of vacuum cleaner is suitable for both Wet Cleaning & Dry Cleaning of hard surfaces, floors, carpets etc

BLOWER FUNCTION- The blower function is suitable for drying and cleaning of narrow and hard- to-reach indoor or outdoor areas. INALSA vacuum cleaners come with powerful blower function.

STRONGER AND UPGRADED  New range of INALSA Vacuum cleaners are equipped with powerful motor that delivers strong suction. The vacuum cleaners have a high-quality stainless-steel tank for longer usage life.

CUTTING-EDGE FLTRATION: HEPA filtration is designed to remove at least 99.97% of particles from the air, down to at least 0.3 microns in size, while tackling the bigger stuff, too. Ideal for asthma and allergy sufferers, as well as industries that require high air quality.

EXTRA LARGE DRAIN PORT: With a regular vacuum cleaner for homes, one may have to worry about the disposal of any wet spillages. One can easily dispose off the collected waste without lifting or handling any form of wet spills, with the help of a Drain port which is available in the 25 Ltr model of the newly launched vacuum cleaner.

may have to worry about the disposal of any wet spillages. can easily dispose the collected waste without lifting or handling any form of wet spills, with the help of Drain port which is available in 25 Ltr model of newly launched vacuum cleaner. EASY TO USE AND DURABLE: Irrespective of the size of the home, with this wet and dry vacuum cleaner, it'll be easy to move around, thanks to its long 5m power cable, easy-to grip top carry handle, and supportive castors, which allow for portability and hassle-free cleaning.

home, with this wet and dry vacuum cleaner, it'll be easy to move around, thanks to its long power cable, easy-to grip top carry handle, and supportive castors, which allow for portability and hassle-free cleaning. MULTIUSE: Because of its high quality and capacity , it can be used for cleaning at Home, Offices, Garage, Workshops and Even Hotels. The Best Buy Vacuum Cleaner



About INALSA Home Appliances INALSA is a subsidiary of Taurus Group, headquartered in Spain, which is one of the most popular brands in Europe with its innovative product range of appliances since 1962. Taurus Group's operational activity is already spread across 100 countries and is managed by a team of 3000 committed, motivated and dynamic young people coming from diverse backgrounds.

INALSA has been making every effort to offer high quality products and professional services to its customers. At INALSA, as products comply with stringent GS, CE, RoHS, ISI test standards and are manufactured under ISO quality systems at different production centers, the strict quality testing norms makes us accomplish the best in class material and product designs. Quality and innovation has always been the hallmark of INALSA ever since its inception. INALSA is the pioneer in food processors and launched it in India around thirty years ago and still enjoys the leadership position in this category. Currently, its range expanded to over 30 product categories with more than 200 SKUs. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2053813/INALSA_Home_Appliances.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1909916/INALSA_Home_Appliances_Logo.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/in/news-releases/inalsa-launches-new-range-of-wet--dry-vacuum-cleaners-301797523.html

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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / BeMetals Corp. (TSXV:BMET), (OTCQB:BMTLF), (Frankfurt:1OI.F) (the "Company" or "BeMetals") is pleased to announce it has integrated recently received drone magnetic survey information with historical drill results that has generated several compelling drill targets at the Tashiro Gold Project ("Tashiro" or the "Project") in Kyushu. These new drill targets focus on testing and potentially extending at least two significant zones of vein-hosted gold mineralization at the Noya and Noya Southwest ("Noya SW") prospects on the Tashiro property.

HIGHLIGHTS OF TASHIRO PROJECT DRILL TARGETS:

Noya Prospect

Recently completed high-resolution drone magnetic survey both maps and extends target zone at Noya prospect

Historical results reported from drilling in 1990s indicate a high-grade epithermal gold vein zone

Gold mineralization target has a strike extent of over 1.5 kilometres, and includes the following selected historical drill intersections: 4MAKC-1: 63.90 grams per tonne ("g/t") gold ("Au") & 16.70 g/t silver ("Ag") over 0.47m 4MAKC-4: 28.60 g/t Au & 12.90 g/t Ag over 1.08m 7MAKN-4: 41.60 g/t Au & 28.40 g/t Ag over 0.30m



Noya SW Prospect

9MAKN-7: 1.67 g/t Au & 1.70 g/t Ag over 27.10m, Including: 3.38 g/t Au over 8.95m

9MAKN-8: 13.80 g/t Au & 16.70 g/t Ag over 1.30m

Note: Table 1 below provides details of these intersections, and Table 2 the other historical drill intersections within the Tashiro Project

John Wilton, President and CEO of BeMetals stated, "We are delighted with the interpretation of our recently completed airborne drone magnetic survey when combined with the historical drilling data at our Tashiro Project. The Tashiro property is located within the Northern Kyushu epithermal gold province. Importantly, certain features of this new magnetic data are consistent with the orientation of the main Noya prospect gold vein trend. Additionally, signatures in this data indicate the potential extension of this gold vein target zone to some 1.5 kilometres along strike."

Story continues

Furthermore, on a recent field reconnaissance to the Tashiro Project area, Dr. Richard Sillitoe, world renowned economic geologist, and technical advisor to the Company, noted "Further drill testing of the Noya and Noya SW veins is clearly merited. The historical high-grade vein intersections are at vertical depths of approximately 175 to 200 metres below surface, thereby defining a clear initial depth target for the planned drilling."

John Wilton concluded, "The Company intends to schedule drill testing of the Tashiro Project later in the year after it has completed the current and planned phases of drilling at its Kato and Todoroki projects in Hokkaido, Japan."

TASHIRO GOLD PROJECT

The Tashiro Project is located in Oita Prefecture of central northeastern Kyushu (Figure 1). The Project is situated within the regional scale Hohi Graben, a major geological structure in this district that is associated with numerous historical gold mines and prospects known collectively as the Northern Kyushu epithermal gold province.

Figure 1: Location Map of Tashiro Gold Project, Kyushu, Japan

BeMetals Corp, Tuesday, April 18, 2023, Press release picture

The high-grade quartz-gold veins of the Noya and Noya SW prospects within the Tashiro Project do not crop out. This area was initially explored for its geothermal energy potential with a single drill hole completed in 1952, and subsequently three more holes were completed in 1977. The existence of epithermal quartz-gold veins in this drill core, with associated intense alteration, was first recognised by Morishita & Takeno and reported in 1989 1 . Motivated by these reported observations and the detection of gold in assays for some of the drilled veins, the Metal Mining Agency of Japan ("MMAJ"), a Japanese state agency, conducted exploration at the Noya and Noya SW prospects (the "Prospects") between 1989 and 1994.

The drilling completed by MMAJ confirmed the development of an extensive epithermal gold system at the Prospects, with many of the hallmarks of such mineralization, such as typical quartz textures and associated trace elements.

Figure 2 below illustrates the location of MMAJ's drill holes and the interpreted approximate east-west strike of the Noya vein zone. This main Noya vein zone trend appears to be mapped by a coincident east-west oriented, magnetic low signature, interpreted to be related to an important controlling structural trend. The Company is intending to complete three to four drillholes to test the Noya and Noya SW prospects.

Figure 2. Drone Magnetic Data with Selected Historical Drill Intersections, Tashiro Gold Project, Kyushu, Japan

BeMetals Corp, Tuesday, April 18, 2023, Press release picture

Table 1 below includes the details of the selected MMAJ drill intersections, associated with the main Noya vein zone, and the Noya SW prospects, with drilled widths and gold and silver grades. This series of relatively shallow depth below surface (approximately 175-200m), generally high-grade, gold intersections demonstrate the potential of this epithermal system to generate significant gold grades. This is an encouraging characteristic of these Prospects, motivating the future exploration drilling of the project.

Table 2 provides the gold and silver intersection results of all the remaining historical drill intersections at these two Prospects within the Tashiro Project area. These addition results demonstrate that even outside the initial targets of the main Noya vein zone and Noya SW prospects there is an extensive footprint to the gold mineralization.

Table 3 details of all the historical drill hole locations with; azimuth, dip, end of hole depth and collar coordinate information.

Table 1: Historical Selected Drill Hole Intersection Results

Drill hole and Interval From

(m) To

(m) Core Interval (m) Au g/t Ag g/t Noya 4MAKC-1 306.90 307.37 0.47 63.90 16.70 4MAKC-4 353.98 355.06 1.08 28.60 12.90 4MAKC-9 335.55 336.15 0.60 14.17 6.39 339.55 339.85 0.30 16.06 12.30 51WT-1 164.20 165.10 0.90 7.00 NA 201.00 201.50 0.50 20.00 NA 6MAKN-1 234.65 234.90 0.25 25.80 25.90 7MAKN-4 205.80 206.10 0.30 41.60 28.40 Noya SW 9MAKN-7 90.50 95.05 4.05* 1.48 3.47 121.30 148.40 27.10* 1.67 1.70 Including: 121.30 127.10 5.80 1.27 1.48 Including: 139.45 148.40 8.95 3.38 3.00 9MAKN-8 84.50 97.20 12.70* 1.13 3.27 119.60 120.90 1.30 13.80 16.70 184.40 188.90 4.50* 1.28 2.69

Table 1 Notes: These drill results are historical in nature. BeMetals has not undertaken any independent investigation of the sampling, nor has it independently analyzed the results of the historical exploration work in order to verify the results. BeMetals considers these historical drill results relevant as the Company will use this data as a guide to plan future exploration programs. The Company also considers the data to be reliable for these purposes however, the Company's future exploration work will include verification of the data through drilling. The reported results are drilled intersection widths as the orientation of the mineralized zones and their true thickness is currently not known. Intersections relate to individual samples, except for Noya SW prospect where composites* where calculated using a nominal cut-off grade of 0.5 g/t Au, with a maximum of 2.55 metres of internal dilution, to determine the boundaries of the intersections.

Table 2: Other Historical Drill Hole Intersection Results

Drill hole and Interval From (m) To (m) Core Interval (m) Au

g/t Ag

g/t 2MAKC-7 242.00 242.40 0.40 5.75 2.30 4MAKC-6 320.40 320.80 0.40 4.86 11.30 4MAKC-10 186.95 188.35 1.40 5.04 5.84 4MAKC-10 190.30 190.55 0.25 4.38 4.32 5MAKC-1 396.20 396.83 0.63 3.92 1.85 5MAKC-2 242.20 242.67 0.47 3.43 4.36 6MAKN-1 175.95 176.30 0.35 5.99 2.87 6MAKN-1 180.70 180.98 0.28 8.52 9.67 8MAKN-5 407.45 407.90 0.45 3.59 0.82 8MAKN-6 157.55 157.85 0.30 6.32 4.28 Drill holes: 53GO-1,3,4, 53NOY-2 & 27GS were geothermal holes not sampled for gold Drill holes: 4MAKC-2,3,5,7,8, 5MAKC-5, 6MAKN-2, 7MAKN-3, 51WT-2, 2MAKC-3,6, & 5MAKC-3,4 were reported as not returning any significant sampled gold mineralization

Table 2 Notes: These drill results are historical in nature. BeMetals has not undertaken any independent investigation of the sampling, nor has it independently analyzed the results of the historical exploration work in order to verify the results. BeMetals considers these historical drill results relevant as the Company will use this data as a guide to plan future exploration programs. The Company also considers the data to be reliable for these purposes however, the Company's future exploration work will include verification of the data through drilling. The reported results are drilled intersection widths as the orientation of the mineralized zones and their true thickness is currently not known. Intersections relate to individual samples.

Table 3: Historical Drill Hole ID, Azimuth, Dip, End of Hole Depth and Collar Coordinates

Drill Hole ID Azimuth Degree Dip Degree End of hole Depth (m) Easting (m) Northing (m) Elevation

(m) 53GO-1 0 -90 700 712068 3680695 620 55GO-3 0 -90 1085 711253 3681255 670 55GO-4 0 -90 510 711046 3681393 665 53NOY-2 0 -90 762 712156 3681128 650 2MAKC-7 0 -90 600 710706 3680674 650 4MAKC-1 360 -35 500 711666 3680474 670 4MAKC-2 360 -40 500 711435 3680805 640 4MAKC-3 180 -55 500 711294 3680623 660 4MAKC-4 180 -35 500 712016 3680952 660 4MAKC-5 180 -40 500 711915 3681144 685 4MAKC-6 180 -30 500 711599 3681358 675 4MAKC-7 0 -90 500 711566 3680787 675 4MAKC-8 187 -38 500 711895 3680884 620 4MAKC-9 165 -40 500 711565 3680690 670 4MAKC-10 20 -45 500 710687 3680682 620 5MAKC-1 150 -30 601 712228 3680906 620 5MAKC-2 360 -40 550 712228 3680906 590 5MAKC-5 340 -35 600 711919 3679839 655 6MAKN-2 345 -45 451 710891 3680667 600 7MAKN-3 211 -40 504 711570 3681024 630 8MAKN-5 50 -40 468 711139 3680990 670 8MAKN-6 345 -30 450 712098 3680795 615 27GS 0 -90 132 710770 3680008 550 51WT-1 360 -90 700 711429 3680685 660 51WT-2 0 -90 700 710474 3679851 585 2MAKC-3 169 -40 500 708655 3679210 540 2MAKC-6 0 -90 500 702895 3675026 510 5MAKC-3 300 -20 600 710258 3679618 590 5MAKC-4 20 -45 501 710258 3679618 600 6MAKN-1 020 -45 400 710891 3680666 650 7MAKN-4 180 -45 450 712228 3680906 600 9MAKN-7 020 -40 275 710544 3679730 580 9MAKN-8 075 -40 325 710544 3679730 580

The Company is currently exploring its highly prospective portfolio of five gold exploration projects in Japan. As exploration work and surveys over the entire BeMetals' portfolio of projects is advanced, the high quality and discovery potential of all of these projects becomes increasingly evident. The location of the projects is illustrated in Figure 3 below.

Figure 3. Location of BeMetals Kazan Gold Projects in Japan

BeMetals Corp, Tuesday, April 18, 2023, Press release picture

QUALITY ASSURANCE AND QUALITY CONTROL

These drill results are historical in nature. BeMetals has not undertaken any independent investigation of the sampling, nor has it independently analyzed the results of the historical exploration work in order to verify the results. BeMetals considers these historical drill results relevant as the Company will use this data as a guide to plan future exploration programs. The Company also considers the data to be reliable for these purposes, however the Company's future exploration work at the Tashiro Project will include verification of the historical data through drilling.

REFERENCE

Morishita, Y. and Takeno, N. (1989) Gold mineralization in the Noya geothermal area, Ohita prefecture. Mining Geol., 39, 68.

ABOUT BEMETALS CORP.

BeMetals is a precious and base metals exploration and development company focused on becoming a leading metal producer through the acquisition of quality exploration, development and potentially production stage projects. The Company has established itself in the gold sector with the acquisition of a portfolio of wholly owned exploration projects in Japan. BeMetals is also progressing its tier-one targeted, Pangeni Copper Exploration Project in the prolific Zambian Copperbelt with co-funding investor the Japanese state agency JOGMEC ("Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security"). Guiding and leading BeMetals' growth strategy is a strong board and management team, founders and significant shareholders of the Company, who have an extensive proven record of delivering exceptional value in the mining sector, over many decades, through the discovery, construction and operation of mines around the world.

QUALIFIED PERSON STATEMENT

The technical information in this news release for BeMetals has been reviewed and approved by John Wilton, CGeol FGS, CEO and President of BeMetals, and a "Qualified Person" as defined under National Instrument 43-101.

ON BEHALF OF BEMETALS CORP.

"John Wilton"

John Wilton

President, CEO and Director

For further information about BeMetals please visit our website at bemetalscorp.com and sign-up to our email list to receive timely updates, or contact:

Derek Iwanaka

Vice President, Investor Relations & Corporate Development

Telephone: 604-928-2797

Email: diwanaka@bemetalscorp.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 news release

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" and "forward looking information" (as defined under applicable securities laws), based on management's best estimates, assumptions and current expectations. Such statements include but are not limited to, statements with respect to future exploration, development and advancement of the Kazan Projects in Japan and the Pangeni Project in Zambia, and the acquisition of additional base and/or precious metal projects. Generally, these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "expects", "expected", "budgeted", "forecasts", "anticipates", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "aims", "potential", "goal", "objective", "prospective", and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "can", "could" or "should" occur. These statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results. Such statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such statements, including but not limited to: the actual results of exploration activities, the availability of financing and/or cash flow to fund the current and future plans and expenditures, the ability of the Company to satisfy the conditions of the option agreement for the Pangeni Project, and changes in the world commodity markets or equity markets. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. The forward-looking statements and forward looking information are made as of the date hereof and are qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. The Company disclaims any obligation to revise or update any such factors or to publicly announce the result of any revisions to any forward-looking statements or forward looking information contained herein to reflect future results, events or developments, except as require by law. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and information. Please refer to the Company's most recent filings under its profile at www.sedar.com for further information respecting the risks affecting the Company and its business.

SOURCE: BeMetals Corp.





View source version on accesswire.com:

https://www.accesswire.com/749643/BeMetals-Generates-Priority-Drill-Targets-at-the-Tashiro-Gold-Project-Kyushu-Japan




[April 18, 2023] 400,000+ Digital Books from 3,000 Publishers Now Available in Flexible Library Access Model

HarperCollins joins "OverDrive Max" with pilot collection to help libraries cost-effectively meet growing demand LONDON, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- OverDrive announced today at the London Book Fair that more than 400,000 digital ebook and audiobook titles are now available in the "OverDrive Max" access model. Available in OverDrive Marketplace, the world's largest catalog for school and library digital book sales, OverDrive Max was specifically designed to provide greater flexibility and value for library budgets to meet the increased demand for digital books. It is quickly becoming the fastest growing sales model for authors and publishers seeking to maximize their revenue from institutional buyers. OverDrive Max enables libraries to purchase bundles of up to 100 loans for specific titles for lending with flexibility for concurrent use based on patron demand with no expiration date, often at the lowest cost. This month OverDrive launched a six-month OverDrive Max pilot of over 150 high-demand HarperCollins titles. Titles include selections popular with readers and book clubs such as The Boardwalk Bookshop by Susan Mallery, The Round House by Louise Erdrich and popular reads for kids with titles in the Warriors series from Erin Hunter and Big Nate series from Lincoln Pierce among others. "I love this model not only for its cost-efficiency and its ability to eliminate long wait lists, but also because it's great for book clubs and students of all ages," said Elizabeth Taylor, Librarian at Pima County Public Library in Arizona. "Every time it's an available option, I vigorously click the 'Add to Cart' button. Without question, OverDrive Max is my absolute favorite lending model and I wish it was available for more titles." Alexis Petric-Blac, Director of Publisher Account Services at OverDrive, added, "OverDrive Max is becoming the preferred method for libraries' digital book purchasing, with Los Angeles Public Library and Cuyahoga County Public Library in Ohio leading the trend. As a result, publishers enabling OverDrive Max increase sales opportunities, and we're delighted that HarperCollins is engaging in a pilot joining many other leading publishers including Abrams Books, RBmedia and Blackstone Publishing who have added OverDrive Max as a standard access model."



Notable 2023 additions to the OverDrive Max access model include the full catalog from Abrams Books, including the Dairy of the Wimpy Kid series by Jeff Kinney; Garfield, Peanuts and Lumberjanes comics from BOOM! Studios; A Thief Among the Trees from Sabaa Tahir; popular romance from Marie Harte, and many more. Initially launched in 2020, the OverDrive Max collection grew significantly in 2022 with the addition of catalogs from Berrett-Koehler, Carson Dellosa, Dreamscape Media and independent publishers partnering with IPG. "The OverDrive Max access model cuts down on wait times, supports library book clubs and ensures we offer a great collection of 'available now' titles for patrons to peruse," said Sandra Breedlove, Digital Selection Librarian at Sonoma County Library in California. "The flexibility and low cost per checkout allow us to meet our patrons' needs while staying within budget."

OverDrive provides libraries the unique ability to mix and match multiple access models to best meet both their budget and their community's demands. OverDrive Max is the fastest growing of the six available access models due to its increased flexibility and affordability. This access model is presented as an option alongside the One Copy One User option in Marketplace. Librarians and publishers attending the London Book Fair at Olympia London from April 18-20 can meet with OverDrive representatives at stand 2D88 to learn more about OverDrive Max and other offerings. Publishers interested in learning more or adding the model can also contact their OverDrive Account Manager. For more information about OverDrive, visit company.overdrive.com . About OverDrive OverDrive is a mission-based company that stands with libraries. Named a Certified B Corp in 2017, OverDrive serves more than 88,000 libraries and schools in 109 countries with the industry's largest digital catalog of ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, video and other content. OverDrive empowers libraries and schools by expanding access for all through tireless industry advocacy and consistent innovation. Award-winning apps and services include the Libby library reading app, the Sora student reading app, Kanopy, the leading video streaming app for libraries and colleges, and TeachingBooks.net, which offers one of the largest catalogs of supplemental materials that enhance literacy outcomes. Founded in 1986, OverDrive is based in Cleveland, Ohio USA. www.overdrive.com Contact:

David Burleigh

Director of Brand & Communications

[email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/400-000-digital-books-from-3-000-publishers-now-available-in-flexible-library-access-model-301799673.html SOURCE OverDrive

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[April 18, 2023] Bite-Sized Videos and A.I. Tools are on the Rise Among Businesses, According to Fiverr

Fiverr International Ltd. (NYSE: FVRR), the company that is revolutionizing how the world works together, today released its Spring 2023 Business Trends Index, a collection of trending searches for services on Fiverr's platform. Among the millions of searches on the marketplace, these services saw the largest percentage increase over the last six months. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005277/en/ Fiverr released its Spring 2023 Business Trends Index, a collection of trending searches for services on Fiverr's platform. (Photo: Business Wire) Rapid shifts in the world of technology, coupled with an uncertain economy, have tested businesses' ability to quickly adapt and evolve. Business leaders have shown they are eager to pivot their organizations and are looking to the latest platforms, technologies, and talent to elevate their businesses. This theme unites the top three trends that emerged: (1) Businesses are increasingly aware of the performance value of short-form video content, specifically on YouTube, (2) there is growing interest in leveraging generative AI tools, such as ChatGPT and Midjourney, and (3) e-commerce operators are looking to strategically elevate their business to compete in an economic downturn, leading to demand for Etsy and Shopify related services. "While many business leaders are confronting the challenges of an unstable economy, never before have there been so many advanced tools and technologies at their fingertips," said Hila Klein, COO of Fiverr. "The data we uncovered underscores their willingness to embrace nascent platforms, such as generative AI tools, and explore new strategies to keep their organizations competitive. It also reveals the key role freelancers play in providing business leaders with the skills and external expertise they need to quickly integrate these platforms and re-strategize, helping organizations of all sizes grow and evolve." These are the trending global searches over the past six months: Short-form video content dominates social strategy TikTok disrupted the market with short-form video, and now other social platforms such as YouTube and Instagram have created their own short-form videofeatures. YouTube Shorts has emerged as a major revenue channel for brands and creators alike, surpassing 50 billion daily views earlier this year. The index data shows business leaders and marketers are investing more in this channel and similar platforms, taking advantage of the ad potential and exposure of short-form video. Given the dramatic growth in popularity of YouTube Shorts specifically, searches for "YouTube Influencer" alone increased by 145%.



YouTube Shorts Video +64,624%

Instagram Reel Editor +4,760%

TikTok manager +1,445% Integrating AI technology As businesses have become aware of new opportunities to advance through AI, searches for AI-related services on Fiverr have skyrocketed. The number of searches for "ChatGPT" in the last six months is comparable to searches for "Facebook" and high-demand services such as "Product Design." Many companies are exploring ways to integrate AI into their business platforms and working with skilled freelance developers to build custom solutions. Since the beginning of the year, earnings for freelancers offering technical AI services-such as AI app development-were responsible for the majority of revenue for AI-related services overall.

AI Art +6,967%

AI +1,088%

Artificial Intelligence +56% Etsy and Shopify businesses strategize to keep customers shopping small While the full impact of the global economic downturn remains uncertain, there are signs consumers have become more price-conscious and are cutting back on spending. Business owners are looking for experts to help them tailor their strategies. Searches for freelancers with expertise as strategists on Etsy and Shopify saw a major uptick, as business owners look for guidance on how to draw in new and retain existing customers in a challenging market. Etsy Sales +5,348%

Etsy Digital Planner +2,366%

Shopify Manager +1,065% Fiverr's Business Trends Index also breaks down the fastest-growing searches for businesses in Australia, France, Germany, Israel, the Netherlands, Spain, and the U.K. A country-by-country breakdown is viewable here. About Fiverr Fiverr's mission is to revolutionize how the world works together. We exist to democratize access to talent and to provide talent with access to opportunities so anyone can grow their business, brand, or dreams. From small businesses to Fortune 500, over 4 million customers worldwide worked with freelance talent on Fiverr in the past year, ensuring their workforces remain flexible, adaptive, and agile. With Fiverr's Talent Cloud, companies can easily scale their teams from a talent pool of skilled professionals from over 160 countries across more than 600 categories, ranging from programming to 3D design, digital marketing to content creation, from video animation to architecture. Don't get left behind - come be a part of the future of work by visiting fiverr.com, read our blog, and follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005277/en/

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[April 18, 2023] Daewoong Pharmaceutical and Sygnature Discovery announce drug discovery research collaboration

- 'Daewoong Pharmaceutical enters research collaboration to discover a novel small molecule to target autoimmune diseases using fragment-based drug discovery and virtual high throughput screening SEOUL, South Korea and NOTTINGHAM, England, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Daewoong Pharmaceutical has entered a research collaboration with Sygnature Discovery to expand its global open innovation for novel drug development. On the 18th April, Daewoong Pharmaceutical (CEO Seng-ho Jeon and Lee Chang-jae) has announced a research collaboration with Sygnature Discovery (CEO Simon Hirst), a global integrated drug discovery company, to discover a novel small molecule to target autoimmune diseases. Sygnature Discovery will provide its proprietary Fragment-Based Drug Discovery (FBDD) and virtual high throughput screening (vHTS) to accelerate Daewoong's novel drug discovery for autoimmune diseases. Additionally, Daewoong will receive support in protein science and crystallography to validate and secure mechanism of action. Through this collaboration, Daewoong Pharmaceutical expects to broaden its drug discovery scope to the field of protein-protein interaction (PPI) as a part of next-generation drug discovery strategy. Sygnature Discovery is an integrated drug discovery company established in 2004 to support early drug development and clinical trials. Based in Nottingham, United Kingdom, the company provides intellectual input and drug discovery expertise to accelerate target validation, hit identification, hit-to-lead, lead optimisation and drug discovery programmes. The company's capabilities include medicinal chemistry, in vitro and in vivo biology, HTS, computational chemistry and informatics, DMPK, form and formulation and protein crystallography. Sygnature Discovery has a market-leading track record in drug discovery including 22 compounds delivered into the clinic (Phases I to III) since 2011, 41 compounds into pre-clinical development and over 170 patent applications with Sygnature Discovery scientists named as inventors. Simon Hirst, CEO of Sygnature Discovery, commented that "We are delighted to be working with the talented team of scientists at Daewoong Pharmaceutical on thi integrated drug discovery collaboration" and added that "Sygnature has built an FBDD platform which combines proprietary fragment collections with high-throughput biophysical screening technologies to rapidly identify and characterize fragment hits. We look forward to applying this technology along with our specialist in silico-based virtual high-throughput screening (vHTS) techniques to identify high value hits and leads and accelerate the novel small molecule discovery process for Daewoong."



Park Joon-seok, head of Daewoong's drug discovery center commented that "We are actively pursuing open collaborations on various innovative platform technologies to boost global new drug discovery. We believe the collaboration with Sygnature Discovery will set a new milestone in expanding Daewoong Pharmaceutical's new drug pipeline." [Clarification1] Fragment-Based Drug Discovery, FBDD

As the latest process of new drug development, it is a method of finding a lead substance using a fragment compound (molecular weight less than 200) A fragment compound with high binding ability to the target of a new drug is first selected, and the binding position of the fragment compound is confirmed through protein structure crystallography before the compound is constructed using medicinal chemistry and precursors can be found through structural chemistry to secure both patentability and novelty. [Clarification2] Virtual Screening, VS Virtual search is a computer-assisted technology used in discovering new drugs. Using a computer library containing information on the structure of various compounds, it is possible to identify substances that are most likely to bind to drug targets. It is a technology that can accelerate the development of new drugs by securing various predictive data on drug similarity, binding force, binding state, etc. for the possibility of millions of compounds in a short time as much as it utilizes computers. [Clarification3] vHTS Instead of many HTS evaluations performed to confirm the effectiveness of new drug candidates, it obtains efficacy prediction results for virtually hundreds of millions of compounds by introducing various calculation formulas and existing results for the effectiveness of compounds. As it is predictive technology, it is necessary to check the actual results, but it is being used to accelerate the development of new drugs by culling hundreds of millions of compounds to the level of 100 to 1000. About Daewoong Pharmaceutical. Co., Ltd. Established in 1945, Daewoong Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. is a leading South Korean pharmaceutical company that develops, manufactures, and commercializes pharmaceuticals for both domestic and international markets. With a strong and innovative in-house R&D and advanced manufacturing facilities, Daewoong provides a total healthcare solution to customers across the globe. Continuing on their course of building a strong global healthcare company, Daewoong has broadened international operations by establishing branch offices and research centers throughout Asia and the United States. Daewoong has also expanded strategic partnerships in more than 100 countries worldwide. In 2022, Daewoong expanded its global market presence by entering into a license agreement worth USD 923 million, which granted permission for the use of 'Fexuclue', a medicine licensed for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease, in the Philippines and Ecuador within the first year of its launch. Additionally, Daewoong successfully launched 'Envlo', the first-ever sodium glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor for the treatment of diabetes to be developed in Korea, and signed an export contract worth USD 84.36 million with Brazil and Mexico. For further information on Daewoong Pharmaceutical, please visit our official website. About Sygnature Discovery: Sygnature Discovery is a world-leading integrated drug discovery partner, offering expertise across a broad range of therapeutic areas and biological target classes. Based in Nottingham and with facilities in Alderley Park, Tytherington and Glasgow, employing close to 700 people. For more information, visit: www.sygnaturediscovery.com. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/daewoong-pharmaceutical-and-sygnature-discovery-announce-drug-discovery-research-collaboration-301800094.html SOURCE Daewoong Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

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[April 18, 2023] Magellan Behavioral Health of Pennsylvania Once Again Earns Full Accreditation for Three Years from the National Committee for Quality Assurance

Magellan Health, Inc. today announced that Magellan Behavioral Health of Pennsylvania, Inc. (Magellan), a Medicaid Managed Behavioral Health Organization (MBHO), has earned Full MBHO Accreditation for three more years from the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA). Magellan currently administers behavioral health benefits through HealthChoices contracts with Bucks, Cambria, Lehigh, Montgomery, and Northampton counties. NCQA is a private, nonprofit organization dedicated to assessing and reporting on the quality of managed care plans, managed behavioral healthcare organizations, preferred provider organizations, new health plans, physician organizations, credentials verification organizations, disease management programs and other health-related programs. NCQA reviews include rigorous on-site and off-site evaluations conducted by a team of physicians and managed care experts. A national oversight committee of physicians and behavioral health providers analyzes the team's findings and assigns an accreditation level based on the MBHO's performance compared to NCQA standards. NCQA MBHO Accreditation standards are purposely set high to encourage MBHOs to continuously enhance their quality. There are approximately 60 standards for quality included in the following categories: utilization management; credentialing and re-credentialing; members' rights and responsibilities; and preventive behavioral health care services. "It is a great honor to receive Full Accreditation from the NCQA for a third consecutive time, as we coordinate care with our county partners and network of providers," said Jim Leonard, CEO for Magellan Behavioral Health of Pennsylvania. "Our team takes pride in adhering to NCQA's rigorous standards that demand continuous quality improvemen in the pursuit of serving our members on a 24/7 basis."



"This accomplishment demonstrates the true culture of our team and our commitment to quality care for our members," said Maria Brachelli-Pigeon, quality improvement director for Magellan Behavioral Health of Pennsylvania. "The accreditation process requires constant evaluation of the team's performance, and we will remain quality-focused in a continual readiness environment, while looking to deliver improved care and innovative opportunities for our members." About the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA): NCQA is a private, nonprofit organization dedicated to improving health care quality. NCQA accredits and certifies a wide range of health care organizations. It also recognizes clinicians and practices in key areas of performance. NCQA's Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS) is the most widely used performance measurement tool in health care. NCQA's website contains information to help consumers, employers and others make more-informed health care choices. NCQA can be found online at ncqa.org, on Twitter @ncqa, on Facebook at facebook.com/NCQA.org/ and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/ncqa.

About Magellan Health: Magellan Health, Inc. supports innovative ways of accessing better health through technology, while remaining focused on the critical personal relationships that are necessary to achieve a healthy, vibrant life. Magellan's customers include health plans and other managed care organizations, employers, labor unions, various military and governmental agencies and third-party administrators. For more information, visit MagellanHealth.com. (MGLN-GEN) View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005379/en/

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[April 18, 2023] Talk of The Town: Globally Renowned Remote English Teaching Platform 51Talk Makes Its Mark in Malaysia

The online platform received appreciation from the Prime Minister at the Youth Empowerment Forum 2023 for its unique teaching philosophy KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Award winning online English teaching platform 51Talk is on a mission to solidify its presence in Malaysia. Entering the local online education territory in March 2022, they have already established their footing in the country through their flagship AirClass (AC) teaching system  a first-of-its kind platform which allows young students to learn the language through real-time translation, taught by teachers from anywhere around the globe. Inspired by the pressing need for improvement in conversational English amongst Chinese students, the brand's mission is to empower the next generation with the ability to effectively communicate with the world without a language barrier. The courses follow the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) international standard. 51Talk's founder and CEO, Jack Huang shares: "In this fast-paced world where global communication primarily happens in English, non-native speakers often feel left behind when they are not well versed in the language. Hence why it is an integral part of the childhood curiculum in many countries around the world."



The platform, which was a participant in the prestigious Youth Empowerment Forum Malaysia 2023, garnered attention from the Prime Minister Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim due to its distinctive and fun approach to teaching. "Traditional teaching methods can become overbearing and difficult for young children, especially when they are not accustomed to conversing in English. Our method focuses on a one-on-one, short but frequent lesson approach, which reinforces concepts at regular intervals to help children retain new information. At the same time it's made to be entertaining with interactive sessions, because learning does not need to be devoid of fun!" adds Huang.

Their approach was also lauded by other notable attendees at the forum  including Selangor Crown Prince Tengku Amir Shah Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, Malaysia's Communications and Digital Minister YB Fahmi Fadzil, Muar Member of Parliament YB Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman, and squash legend Datuk Nicol Ann David. They noted that the brand's vision to empower Malaysia's next generation with English communication skills is in fact in alignment with the core values of Malaysia Madani. Notably, they were the only private online education company that received an invitation to attend the forum and drew interest from numerous strategic partners, including government entities, to explore future collaborations. The brand has won consistent awards in the Asian education sector, and is hopeful about joining forces with more partners in the Malaysian market to create opportunities for youths to contribute meaningfully to nation-building. To find out more about 51Talk or to sign up for a class, visit https://rb.gy/utaif About 51Talk 51Talk is a prominent online English education platform that operates globally. Headquartered in Singapore, the company specialises in providing individual English lessons to young learners aged between 3 and 15 years old, as well as adults aged 18 and above. Established in 2011, 51Talk was listed on the New York Stock Exchange on June 10, 2016. To date, students from more than 50 countries and regions worldwide have taken over 100 million classes on the platform. These students have learned from more than 20,000 highly qualified teachers from countries in North America and the Philippines. With its diverse pool of experienced educators, 51Talk is committed to offering high quality language learning services to its global audience. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/talk-of-the-town-globally-renowned-remote-english-teaching-platform-51talk-makes-its-mark-in-malaysia-301800211.html SOURCE 51Talk

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[April 18, 2023] BDC Launches New $150-Million Sustainability Venture Fund to Further Enable the Transition to a Net-Zero Economy

MONTREAL, April 18, 2023 /CNW/ - BDC today announces the creation of its new $150-million Sustainability Venture Fund dedicated to investing in businesses developing technologies that will support Canada and the world to meet sustainability and climate targets. The Fund is a key component of BDC's commitment to sustainability and part of its contribution to help advance Canada's 2050 net-zero ambition. It will invest in technologies in line with four key United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) leveraging Canada's strengths and areas of opportunity: sustainable communities and cities, responsible production and consumption, climate action as well as clean and affordable energy. Led by Joseph Regan, current Managing Partner of BDC Capital's Industrial Innovation Venture Fund, this new Fund will be dedicated to making equity investments in sustainability-oriented businesses with SaaS, hardware-enabled software, and software-led business models. It will invest in seed to Series A and B, highly scalable and economically durable Canadian companies that are creating sustainability-enhancing technology systems, with light capital requirements over time. This new Fund complements BDC Capital's existing $400-million Climate Tech Fund II , which offers equity investment and flexible financing for clean and climate tech firms with higher, more intensive capital needs and those that are building technologies demonstrating material GHG emission reduction potential. With these two funds, the Bank now offers solutions broadly encompassing the entire spectrum of capital needs for technology firms oriented toward the net-zero transition. "For us at BDC, it is important to translate our commitment to sustainability into tangible and impactful initiatives," said Isabelle Hudon, President and CEO of BDC. "Innovation is imperaive to speed the transition to net-zero, as much as it can spur the growth of our economy. With the new fund, we have an immense opportunity to ensure that Canadian start-ups have access to the capital they need to compete and drive meaningful impact to Canada's journey to reach net-zero and meet its sustainability targets."



"Climate and environmental sustainability will require trillions of dollars of investment globally over the coming years and forging our net-zero future will only be achieved by building a more coordinated approach. We need every actor's expertise, know-how and resources aligned and in motion," said Jerome Nycz, Executive Vice President at BDC Capital. "This new fund allows us to help cultivate a nascent industry in Canada which has tremendous market potential globally, providing innovative solutions to operationalize resiliency and sustainability in an evolving world economy." Statistics show that despite the attention they attract and their impressive growth potential, Canadian start-ups in these sectors have traditionally been underfunded when compared with their competitors outside the country. For example, in 2021 only 5% of Canadian VC investment went into environmental sustainability, versus the global average of 14%. Furthermore, it is estimated that the scale of overall investments required for Canada to reach net-zero by 2050 is ranging from $60 billion to $140 billion per year on average.

"Sustainability technologies will be at the forefront of innovation all around the world. Over the coming decades, we will witness an acceleration of adoption across sectors and industries," said Regan. He added "It is a privilege to be working to ensure Canadian innovators have the capital they need to develop and commercialize world-class technologies that have the potential to tackle the most urgent challenges of our time." Sustainability is a core pillar of the Bank's renewed strategic vision to fulfill its role as a development bank even more ambitiously over the next few years. Acting as a catalyst to inspire action, BDC will work collaboratively to help entrepreneurs build strong and green businesses. This includes providing access to the capital, advice and networks needed to thrive, and helping build a clean, low-carbon, circular economy in line with Canada's 2030 and 2050 climate targets. The Bank has committed more than $1.8 billion to sustainability initiatives, including $1 billion for its Cleantech and Climate Tech Funds. About BDC Capital BDC Capital is the investment arm of BDC, Canada's business development bank. With over $6 billion under management, BDC Capital serves as a strategic partner to the country's most innovative firms. It offers businesses a full spectrum of capital, from seed investments to growth equity as well as ownership transition solutions, supporting Canadian entrepreneurs who have the ambition to stand out on the world stage. Visit bdc.ca/capital. SOURCE Business Development Bank of Canada

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[April 18, 2023] Gate Pay and CityPay.io Partner to Advance Crypto Payment Adoption in Georgia and Europe

MAJURO, Marshall Islands, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Gate Pay, the crypto payment service product by the global leading CEX Gate.io, has announced a strategic partnership with CityPay.io, a fast-growing crypto payment startup based in Georgia, allowing over 600 Georgian vendors to get access to fast and convenient crypto payment options for their goods and services. The partnership will potentially bridge millions of Gate.io and Gate Pay users with hundreds of merchants across Georgia, covering people's major daily activities, such as hotel booking, supermarket shopping, restaurant billing, etc. Notably, one of the partners of CityPay.io is a major restaurant chain Wendy's, where customers can easily pay for their food with cryptos. Founded in 2013, Gate.io provides a wide range of crypto services to over 13 million users worldwide with its ll-around services featuring everything from comprehensive crypto trading products to fiat-to-crypto exchange services. The new partnership with CityPay.io represents another step towards increasing the application scenarios for Gate Pay users, especially in the European region.



"Gate Pay was launched with a vision to bridge the gap between Web3 and people's daily life by connecting millions of users with crypto-friendly businesses, products, and applications," according to Gate Pay Director Feng Zhou. Since it went live, the Gate Pay team has been working with global partners like CityPay to bring the seamless crypto payments service to merchants around the globe. Gate Pay provides full support to business partners in integrating Gate Pay, whether already crypto-friendly or new adopters. The combination of Gate Pay's broad user base, excellent user experience, and CityPay.io's existing business network and coverage in Georgia will create great synergies in accelerating the business growth for both companies, as well as to provide the reliable web3 shopping experience for more people and merchants in the region.

About Gate Pay Gate Pay is a secure, free, and fast cryptocurrency payment function developed by Gate.io to meet the Web 3.0 needs of merchants and individual users to pay and receive cryptocurrency anytime, anywhere. Currently, Gate Pay supports over 30 mainstream cryptocurrencies in payments directly and also enables users to instantly convert among over 1500 cryptocurrencies. About CityPay.io CityPay.io creates high-tech system for businesses enabling them to receive customer payments in cryptocurrency. The company supports hundreds of companies and boosted their sales by adopting new additional ways of receiving payments, cutting down costs 5 times and offering more independent and 100% anonymous transactions. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/gate-pay-and-citypayio-partner-to-advance-crypto-payment-adoption-in-georgia-and-europe-301800302.html SOURCE Gate.io

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[April 18, 2023] SustainableIT.org Announces Winners of Inaugural Impact Awards for Technology's Contribution to ESG Initiatives

REDWOOD CITY, California, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- SustainableIT.org, the CIO-led nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing global sustainability through technology leadership, today announced the winners of its inaugural SustainableIT Impact Awards. These awards recognize technology leaders and their C-suite partners for their leadership and achievement in driving environmental, social, or governance (ESG) sustainability, representing the values and goals that are part of SustainableITs mission. The honorees represent a broad spectrum of companies, reflecting the programs goal of inspiring CIOs and CTOs to take a leadership role in addressing their businesses ESG challenges and opportunities. Winners were chosen based on their goals and progress in advancing sustainability as well as the positive impact they have had on their businesses. We were impressed to see so many strong examples of IT-led sustainability initiatives coming from a wide variety of sectors, including banking, healthcare, manufacturing, energy, and technology, said Ralph Loura, Board Chair of SustainableIT.org. Our winners demonstrate that IT leaders can and must help pave the way for their businesses to operate not just more efficiently, but more sustainably.

The winners for the 2023 SustainableIT Impact Awards are:

Category: Environmental Impact Brian Kirkland, CIO, Choice Hotels International, Inc.

Katherine Wetmur, CIO, Morgan Stanley

Dan Waleke, CIO, Rocket Companies

Elizabeth Hackenson, SVP & CIO, Schneider Electric

JP Saini, EVP & Chief Digtal & Technology Officer, Sunbelt Rentals, Inc.



Category: Social Impact



Vicki Hildebrand, SVP & CIO, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts

Kristie Grinnell, SVP & CIO, DXC Technology

Shawana Poole Gaines, IT Executive, HP, Inc.

Adriana Karaboutis, Global Chief Information & Digital Officer, National Grid

Srini Koushik, EVP & CTO, Rackspace Technology Category: Governance Impact Bernard Gavgani, Global CIO, BNP Paribas

Gary Ahwah, CTO, Molina Healthcare

Scott Case, CIO, Truist

Mike Brady, Chief Technology Officer, Wells Fargo Srini Koushi, CIO of Rackspace and an honoree for this years award, said, Sustainability is a journey. Modern enterprises must collaborate across their sectors and recognize that their success is intertwined with the health of the planet and society." Leaders of the SustainableIT.org non-profit reflected on the broader importance of the awards. Board member Shannon Gath, CIO of Teradyne, said, Our honorees serve as beacons for their industries, hopefully inspiring all technology leaders to step up and lead on sustainability. As IT leaders, we are uniquely positioned within our companies to put the power of technology behind ESG. As with other business imperatives, technology is an essential component. The winners of this years Impact Awards will be recognized at the SustainableIT Awards Gala on the evening of Tuesday, May 2, 2023, at The Fontainebleau Miami Beach. The Gala will be held in partnership with the Delphix Data Company Summit, an annual technology leadership conference dedicated to advancing solutions and best practices for using data to accelerate innovation while strengthening compliance, improving software quality, and reducing costs. About SustainableIT.org

SustainableIT.org is a nonprofit organization focused on advancing global sustainability through technology leadership. Our mission is to define sustainable transformation programs by industry, author best practices and frameworks, set standards and certifications, provide education and training, and raise awareness for environmental and societal programs that make our organizations and the world sustainable for generations to come. About Delphix

Delphix is the industry leader for DevOps test data management and is the founder and technical underwriter for SustainableIT.org. Businesses need to transform application delivery but struggle to balance speed with data security and compliance. Our DevOps Data Platform automates data security, while rapidly deploying test data to accelerate application releases. With Delphix, customers modernize applications, adopt multicloud, achieve CI/CD, and recover from downtime events such as ransomware up to 2x faster.

Leading companies, including Allstate, Choice Hotels, Michelin, and Molina Healthcare rely on Delphix to accelerate digital transformation, reduce costs and protect sensitive data. Visit us at www.delphix.com.

For Media: Kathryn Marston [email protected]

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[April 18, 2023] Bectran Proud to Sponsor International Credit and Trade Finance Association's Annual Conference

Bectran Inc., an industry leader providing cutting-edge credit, collections and accounts receivable automation software will be a sponsor of The Association of International Credit and Trade Finance Professionals (ICTF) Symposium from April 23 to 25 in Chicago, Illinois at the legendary Four Seasons Hotel. Bectran will showcase the latest trends in Credit, Collections and Accounts Receivable Software to credit professionals from around the world during the three-day conference. ICTF, the association of choice for international credit management professionals, hosts credit conferences worldwide. This year's symposium will cover a range of topics, including worldwide payment delays and defaults, transformations in the global credit department and a keynote speech discussing the current state of the global economy. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in roundtable dscussions, learn from real-world case studies and network with industry professionals. The event will bring together industry thought leaders, professionals and experts in the field to share insights, trends and best practices in credit management.



"Bectran is thrilled to be a sponsor for ICTF's annual symposium, happening right here in our home city. This is an incredible opportunity to connect with credit leaders from around the world to hear firsthand what the priorities, challenges and needs of our users are right now," said Sean McCaffrey, Corporate Account Executive. Bectran representatives Dominic Biegel and Sean McCaffrey will be available throughout the conference to discuss the latest innovations in Bectran's top-of-the-line platform for the competitive B2B credit management team.

About Bectran, Inc. Since its inception in 2010, Bectran has pioneered affordable credit management and accounts receivable automation solutions for all sizes of organizations. Bectran's SaaS solutions - credit, collections and accounts receivable - provide seamless user experiences across various industries and empower users with robust credit evaluation services, putting you in control of your financial health. Our dedication to improving the efficiency of the order-to-cash cycle has helped companies cut down the time to process and approve credit by over 90% while significantly lowering the risk of default. We are committed to helping businesses make the transition to powerful SaaS technology solutions that save you time and money. For more information, visit our website. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005049/en/

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[April 18, 2023] Operation Lifesaver Canada Collaborates With Google Maps on New Rail Crossing Alert Feature

Every year, dozens of Canadians are killed or seriously injured in preventable train-vehicle and train-pedestrian collisions at railway crossings. These tragic incidents are devastating for the individuals involved, their friends and family, railway employees, first responders, and communities. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005305/en/ Operation Lifesaver Canada collaborates with Google Maps on new rail crossing alert feature for Canadian drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. (Photo: Business Wire) Today, Operation Lifesaver (OL) Canada announced its collaboration with Google Maps on a new safety feature to alert Canadian drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists to rail crossings. Canadians using Google Maps app (vesion 5.57 or higher for iOS and 10.68 or higher for Android) will now see a rail crossing icon alerting them to upcoming crossings and encouraging them to approach with caution. The feature was developed using rail crossing location data from the Canadian Rail Atlas, the Railway Association of Canada's interactive map of Canada's nearly 43,000-kilometre railway network.



"Many Canadians rely on Google Maps to navigate their communities, and so we're delighted to have collaborated with Google on this important project to help save lives," said Sarah Mayes, National Director of OL Canada. "We're hopeful that when Canadians see a Google Maps rail crossing alert they'll prepare to stop, obey all railway warning signs and signals, and remember to Look. Listen. Live. before proceeding through any crossing." OL Canada has been advocating for technology companies to incorporate rail crossing alerts into their navigation applications since 2017. Earlier this year, OL worked with the Railway Association of Canada to validate the locations of more than 21,500 public grade crossings with RAC's railway members. Those data points provide the basis for the Google Maps rail crossing alerts in Canada. Development of the Google Maps feature follows the launch of a similar feature developed in collaboration with the popular navigation app Waze in 2020.

Safety is a shared responsibility, and Operation Lifesaver Canada hopes that other technology companies will follow Google's lead and partner with OL to #STOPTrackTragedies. About Operation Lifesaver Canada Operation Lifesaver Canada is a national public rail-safety program sponsored by Transport Canada, the Railway Association of Canada and its members, including CN, CPKC, VIA Rail, Metrolinx, exo, West Coast Express and Genesee & Wyoming, among others. Through its national network of Rail Safety Ambassadors, partnerships with safety councils, police, the trucking industry and community groups, and innovative tools such as its virtual-reality Look. Listen. Live. campaign, Operation Lifesaver Canada works to save lives by educating Canadians about the hazards of trespassing on railway property and failing to exercise caution at rail crossings. Canadians can keep up-to-date on the latest rail safety news by visiting operationlifesaver.ca. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005305/en/

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SACRAMENTO, Calif., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- New legislation gives people who have developed cancer, respiratory illnesses and birth defects the right to hold oil drillers liable for their illnesses if they live, work, or go to school within 3200 feet of oil drilling and if the company did not use the best technologies to mitigate risk.

Consumer Watchdog Logo (PRNewsfoto/Consumer Watchdog)

In such cases, the oil drillers and their boards of directors would have the presumption of liability for damages with minimum penalties of $250,000 and maximum penalties of $1 million. The presumption could be rebutted if the companies proved the illnesses were caused another way.

SB 556, authored by California State Senator Lena Gonzalez, builds on scientific evidence proving a direct link between drilling and these maladies, the same evidence that was used to enact SB 1137 (Gonzalez), which banned drilling in the 3200 foot "set-back" zone. Oil drillers qualified a referendum that put SB 1137 on hold until voters vote on it in November 2024. If SB 556 becomes law, it would further protect communities by making drillers liable for the harms they cause starting January 2024.

A coalition of more than 130 environmental, community, consumer and public interest groups that recently backed Governor Newsom's price gouging penalty law (SBx1-2) are now supporting SB 556 in order to protect community health. Read their letter.

"Oil drillers who have disregarded the detrimental impacts to communities they drill in, need to be accountable for the harms they cause that are scientifically linked to their drilling," said Senator Lena Gonzalez (D  Long Beach). "If oil drillers want to continue their operations without using the best available technology that can help protect the health and wellbeing of our communities they should face legal accountability to the families harmed by their actions."

"Living near oil wells and gas production facilities increases one's risk of asthma, respiratory problems, pre-term births, high-risk pregnancies, and cancer," the more than 130 groups wrote in their letter of support for SB 556. "If oil and gas companies are going to continue to endanger the health of California residents, it is only fair they pay the costs when those residents get sick."

Story continues

The groups include Central California Environmental Justice Network, California Environmental Justice Alliance, Center for Biological Diversity, Center for Race Poverty & the Environment, Communities for A Better Environment, CALPIRG, Environment California, Consumer Watchdog, Food and Water Watch, and Sierra Club.

"Over 2.1 million Californians live within half a mile of oil and gas wells, and that number will continue to increase with the addition of new wells," the letter states. "Moreover, environmental impacts disproportionally affect communities that are low-income and largely of color. One third of the Californians who live near wells are additionally burdened by environmental pollution and over 90% are people of color."

SB 556 is co-sponsored by Consumer Watchdog and the Center for Race, Poverty and the Environment.

"The Center on Race, Poverty & the Environment is excited to co-sponsor SB 556 (Gonzalez), which empowers communities to hold oil companies accountable for the health harms they cause by lifting the weight of the burden of proof from impacted people's shoulders," said Kayla Karimi, staff attorney for the Center on Race, Poverty & the Environment. "This bill is a crucial innovation in the fight to protect the health of our communities, and we are excited to work with Consumer Watchdog and Senator Gonzalez to pass it into law."

"If drillers want to drill in unsafe ways, they should be presumed to be accountable for the harm they cause," said Jamie Court, president of Consumer Watchdog. "Like the gun industry that is liable for unsafe conduct in the manufacturer and distribution of weapons in California, oil drillers that ignore safety standards should be presumptively liable for the illnesses linked to their negligence. SB 556 reverses the burden from the individual to the driller when drillers ignore safety standards."

Members of the Last Chance Alliance offered the following comments:

Kobi Naseck, Coalition Coordinator, Voices in Solidarity Against Oil in Neighborhoods (VISION)

"For frontline communities, and for every single Californian who's more and more affected by the hazardous consequences of a changing climate, this bill is about justice. It's about holding polluters, who have known for years about the horrible health consequences of drilling in so-called "sacrifice zones," accountable for their years of damage. It's time for polluters to pay up. How much longer are tax payers and working families supposed to foot the bill for their sins?"

Meghan Sahli-Wells, California Director, Elected Officials to Protect America - Code Blue, Former Culver City Mayor

"Our Elected Officials to Protect America California network of over 460 elected officials from 49 counties, representing more than half of Californians, have fought for science-based public health setbacks to protect our communities from oil and gas industry pollution. Our communities have suffered for far too long, forced to breathe toxic air and live on contaminated soil from oil and gas facilities in our neighborhoods. As the industry callously attempts to roll back setback laws enacted to safeguard our health, the Newsom Administration must use the authority it has now to deny permits next to homes, schools, hospitals, and places of worship, and stop the oil and gas industry from poisoning California's most vulnerable residents."

Martha Dina Arguello, Executive Director, Physicians for Social Responsibility- Los Angeles

"For decades, Californians have been paying the ultimate price to the oil and gas industry- their health. Failure to prioritize health and safety has left many communities across the state plagued by respiratory illness, birth defects, and cancer from daily exposure to oil extraction operations. We've known the industry's stance on public health- made even more explicit by its ruthless efforts to roll back health protective setback laws. Declaring the presumption of liability acknowledges what communities have known for years: oil drilling is an inherently dangerous practice that has no place near where we live, work, learn, play and pray. We urge the Legislature and the Governor to finally hold Big Oil accountable for so many years of damage."

Raquel Mason, Policy Manager, California Environmental Justice Alliance

This bill is a game changer. It takes something all of our frontline community members know to be true - that living near oil and gas wells makes you and your family sick - and entrenches that truth into law. It is critical for the health and safety of Californians everywhere that the Legislature and the Governor pass this bill. People need the legal power to stand up to big corporations.

Brandon Dawson, Director, Sierra Club California

"SB 556 is a much-needed, common sense piece of legislation that we urge the California legislature to pass. For too long, the oil and gas industry has gotten away with endangering the health and environment of black and brown communities. This bill will help ameliorate those impacts and set California on a path to climate leadership by protecting our most vulnerable."

Chirag Bhakta, California Director, Food & Water Watch

"For too long, the fossil fuel industry has profited from polluting our communities. Every day, the two million Californians who live within a mile of an active oil well pay the price with their health as they face the increased risk of cancer, respiratory diseases, and pregnancy complications.

"SB 556 would begin to hold the oil and gas industry accountable for the health impacts of their production. Our Legislature and our Governor must act to hold the fossil fuel industry accountable for the damage done to generations of Californians. Our communities and our climate are not something to be sacrificed for Big Oil's bottomline."

Greenpeace USA Senior Climate Campaigner Amy Moas, Ph.D.

"If someone crashes into you on the highway, they are generally responsible for paying for the damages to you and your car. Senate Bill 556 follows the exact same logic. If you live near an oil and gas company's drilling project and are diagnosed with asthma or cancer, they should be held responsible for those impacts. This is common sense.

"Scientists have told us for years that oil wells leak toxic compounds that are harmful to human health, and last year, California successfully established a 3,200-foot buffer zone in response to that hazard. But Big Oil shelled out millions to put this on pause. If oil and gas companies want to drill dangerously close to where people live, work, and play  and they've shown they're willing to spend millions to do so  then they should be held financially responsible for the public health crisis they are creating."

Hollin Kretzmann, an attorney at the Center for Biological Diversity's Climate Law Institute.

"This bill connects the dots between toxic oil and gas pollution and the health harms it causes. For far too long, Big Oil has escaped accountability despite mountains of evidence that their pollution makes people sick. It's high time the onus was put on oil companies to prove their dirty activities aren't the cause of rampant health harms. The California legislature needs to pass these overdue community protection and accountability measures, and it needs to redouble its efforts to stop oil and gas drilling so people don't get sick in the first place."

Cision

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SOURCE Consumer Watchdog
[April 18, 2023] SMBC Capital Markets Appoints Gareth Hughes Head of Trading

SMBC Capital Markets, Inc., a member of SMBC Group, today announced the appointment of Gareth Hughes as Head of Trading. Gareth will be based in New York. In his new role, Gareth will lead SMBC's derivatives and macro rates trading business, focusing on improving the firm's trading capabilities to better meet the needs of a growing institutional client base. He will also partner with the SMBC Nikko Securities America, Inc. credit sales and trading team to align secondary market priorities and enhance SMBC's value to clients in the primary markets. Gareth reports to Yunson Du, Senior Deputy President of SMBC Capital Markets, Inc. and Deputy Head of Americas Division Sales & Trading, who said: "We are pleased to have Gareth join SMBC, and we're looking forward to continued growth in derivatives and macro rates trading. He brings deep experience to lead a team that provides best-in-class product and service offerings to our institutional clients." Gareth joins SMBC from UBS, where he managed the linear rates trading business. Prior to that, he served at Societe Generale as Head of Fixed Income and Currencies (FIC) in the Americas, overseeing Sales & Trading and formulatin the bank's annual FIC business plan.



Gareth will work closely with Christian Stauder, Head of Macro Rates Sales, who also joined SMBC from Societe Generale in August of last year. About SMBC Group

SMBC Group is a top-tier global financial group. Headquartered in Tokyo and with a 400-year history, SMBC Group offers a diverse range of financial services, including banking, leasing, securities, credit cards, and consumer finance. The Group has more than 150 offices and 86,000 employees worldwide in nearly 40 countries. Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc. (SMFG) is the holding company of SMBC Group, which is one of the three largest banking groups in Japan. SMFG's shares trade on the Tokyo, Nagoya, and ADRs on the New York (NYSE: SMFG) stock exchanges. As of December 31, 2022, its total assets were $1.99 trillion. In the Americas, SMBC Group has a presence in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, and Peru. Backed by the capital strength of SMBC Group and the value of its relationships in Asia, the Group offers a range of commercial and investment banking services to its corporate, institutional, and municipal clients. It connects a diverse client base to local markets and the organization's extensive global network. The Group's operating companies in the Americas include Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp. (SMBC), SMBC Nikko Securities America, Inc., SMBC Nikko Securities Canada, Ltd., SMBC Capital Markets, Inc., SMBC Rail Services LLC, Manufacturers Bank, JRI America, Inc., SMBC Leasing and Finance, Inc., Banco Sumitomo Mitsui Brasileiro S.A., and Sumitomo Mitsui Finance and Leasing Co., Ltd. For more information, please visit www.smbcgroup.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005616/en/

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[April 18, 2023] Fulcrum Announces Partnership with American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP)

Global association of health and safety professionals furthers its commitment to preventing worker injury by providing Fulcrum to its members at no cost SAN FRANCISCO, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Fulcrum today announced a new partnership with the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) that offers its members a special ASSP Starter Package of Fulcrum's industry-leading field inspection management platform, at no cost. ASSP members will be able to create and use up to four fully customizable digital forms, including two pre-built ASSP safety standard templates ready for use out of the box. In addition, the package will provide 45 days of premium support. The Fulcrum field inspection management platform allows users to digitize safety inspections, audit processes, and perform data collection in minutes, including the ability to use digital versions of several of ASSP's recognized best practices to prevent worker injuries, illnesses, and fatalities. The ASSP Starter Package is a risk-free introduction to the benefits of digitizing ASSP standards and other saety inspections, allowing ASSP members to:



Increase inspection team efficiencies and ensure accurate data collection

Capture and easily access complete audit trails for OSHA and other reporting

Create an evidence-based environment by capturing, digitizing, and archiving pictures & video

Document hazards as they're discovered and track remediation

Identify, codify, and share lessons learned related to incident management, near-misses, and more

Easily accommodate different regulatory requirements in different jurisdictions "We're always exploring new ways to better support the occupational safety and health profession, and our alliance with Fulcrum helps us do that," said ASSP President Christine Sullivan, CSP, ARM. "When our core values align, we can help safety professionals stay current on best practices and connect them to the latest industry developments. The end result is safer and healthier workplaces." Jim Grady, CEO of Fulcrum, agrees. "We're delighted to be a partner ASSP is counting on to help its members engage in the digital transformation of their safety inspection programs. Fulcrum shares ASSP's commitment to worker safety, and we're proud to be able to make workplaces safer with the combination of ASSP's best practices and Fulcrum's industry-leading field safety inspection management software."

For more information about the partnership between Fulcrum and ASSP, please visit our blog. If you're an ASSP member, create your free Fulcrum account at assp.org/resources/fulcrum . About Fulcrum

Fulcrum's mission is to improve the way field teams work by automating inspection processes to ensure safer, higher quality, and compliant outcomes. We are committed to empowering field teams every day with our next-gen Field Inspection Management platform that improves team performance and safety, keeps projects on track, and eliminates regulatory compliance headaches. For more information visit fulcrumapp.com . Fulcrum is proudly developed by Spatial Networks, Inc. Any trademark, service or other mark, other than Fulcrum which is used under license, belongs to the respective company owning such marks. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/fulcrum-announces-partnership-with-american-society-of-safety-professionals-assp-301800203.html SOURCE Fulcrum

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[April 18, 2023] UOB to build new global technology and innovation centre in Punggol Digital District

UOB is the first local bank and largest commercial investor in Singapore's first smart digital district.

New products and capabilities will be ideated and developed in this new global design and developmental hub to drive the future of banking in ASEAN. SINGAPORE, April 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- UOB will invest more than S$500 million to build its new global technology and innovation centre in JTC's Punggol Digital District (PDD). With this investment, UOB becomes the first local bank to establish its presence in Singapore's first smart and sustainable business district, and is the largest commercial investor in PDD to date. Targeted to be completed by the end of 2026, the 300,000 square feet centre will house around 3,000 talents engaging in technology, innovation and digital roles to further the Bank's digital ambitions. The new centre will offer high-performance workplaces to foster higher employee performance and engagement. It will also be fitted with green features, in line with the sustainability nature of the district. Mr Wee Ee Cheong, Deputy Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, UOB, said, "UOB is pleased to be part of this smart nation initiative as the first Singapore bank and the largest commercial investor in the PDD. Our investment here reinforces our commitment to grow our Singapore core, and to support our customers in Singapore and across ASEAN on their digital journey. We look forward to working with the vibrant ecosystem of partners here to accelerate innovation, talent building and sustainability." UOB is the only Singapore bank that has standardised its regional technology platform across ASEAN and its digital initiatives throughout the region have been raising the bar for digital banking, cross-border payments and financial advisory services. This new global design and developmental hub will further enhance the Bank's digital capabilities to drive and scale innovation to advance UOB to be the most preferred bank for both consumers and businesses in ASEAN. The Bank is also looking to further its commitment in nurturing the next generation of tech talent in PDD. Working closely with JTC, UOB will support local industrialists in PDD and beyond in embracing and jumpstarting their sustainability journey through capabilities building and financing programmes. Building the future of banking at PDD Leveraging capabilities and expertise of different partners within PDD, UOB strives to build the future of banking for ASEAN by redefining customer experience in financial services through innovations, testing and developing progressive and personalised solutions for customers. UOB TMRW app is the Bank's all-in-one app built around the customer, with its multidimensional capabilities in payments, investments, lending and rewards. TMRW was designed and built out of the Bank's global tech centre in Singapore, and subsequently rolled out to UOB's key regional markets with adaptation to local nuances. As the Bank's core digital platform to digitally acquire, serve and engage customers at scale, UOB TMRW is powered by leading technologies such as data analytics, artificial intelligence and machine learning models, to provide personalised insights and product offering catered to every unique customer's needs. PDD will be the next innovation lab where new products and features will be ideated, developed, piloted and rolled out regionally. To grow and to contribute to the digital ecosystem at PDD, UOB will also be housing its innovation accelerator, The FinLab, at PDD to foster closer collaborations with tech partners, start-ups and small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). From accelerating early-stage fintechs to scale, to helping SMEs transform digitally and sustainably across the region, The FinLab has supported more than 20,000 businesses since its inception in 2015. The FinLab also launched the Sustainability Innovation Programme and The Greentech Accelerator in 2021 and 2022 respectively to drive green capabilities and connect SMEs with green solution providers. Nurturing future generations of tech talent UOB recognises the importance of nurturing its future generations of talent, and the value of continual upskilling and reskilling to keep current and future employees future ready. As one of the first, and handful, of local enterprises with a global tech centre based in Singapore, UOB's investment in PDD signifies its commitment to grow a world-class tech team locally. UOB has in place a wide range of meaningfully-designed training programmes and collaborates with leading academic and industry partners to hone the digital skills of its workforce. As part of expanding its people and development capabilities, UOB today signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) to set up a Fintech Innovation Lab. Housed in SIT's upcoming Punggol campus, this joint lab will allow UOB's employees and SIT's academic staff and students to undertake fintech innovation, training, and development, and to participate in applied research and innovation to deliver integrated solutions that address real business challenges. The proximity of UOB and SIT's workplace and training locations and co-utilisation of facilities at PDD will provide greater synergy in talent development. The latest MOU adds to UOB's existing support of SIT's Work-Study Degree programmes where SIT students from three degree programmes[1] can access applied learning opportunities via work attachments at UOB, as well as work opportunities for its graduates. To continue growing its own timber, UOB's existing employees will also benefit from training workshops and seminars conducted by SIT to upskill themselves with relevant digital and fintech skills to prepare themselves for a digital future. Forging a sustainable future for the ecosystem As part of UOB's efforts in forging a sustainable future, the Bank inked a MOU with JTC today to collaborate in the decarbonisation drive of Singapore businesses. This collaboration combines the strengths of JTC's and UOB's sustainability capabilities to scale the adoption of green solutions. Based on UOB Business (SME and Large Enterprises) Outlook Study 2023, almost four in five SMEs believe in the importance of incorporating sustainable practices in their businesses. However, they face major barriers in implementation such as insufficient knowledge and lack of resources. To address this, JTC and UOB will conduct joint outreach capacity-building workshops for local industrialists, within PDD and beyond, under this new partnership. The workshops will leverage both parties' respective technical expertise and toolkits, including UOB Sustainability Compass, to assess companies' sustainability readiness. Prioritised action plans and recommendations from the outreach, coupled with UOB's sustainable financing solutions, will support businesses as they advance their sustainability journey towards a net-zero economy. UOB and JTC's joint outreach will commence in the later half of 2023, focusing on local industrialists. Being the largest commercial investor in PDD, UOB is also committed to contributing to the district's sustainable ecosystem. UOB has maintained operational carbon neutrality since 2021 and this new centre will incorporate green building features and technologies to drive energy efficiency. These features include: rooftop solar panels to tap renewable energy to partially meet the building's power needs;

integrated building management and smart lift systems to optimise energy consumption;

air-conditioning systems with an environmentally-friendly refrigerant of low global warming potential [2] and airside-optimisation solutions to maintain energy optimisation of cooling systems; and

and airside-optimisation solutions to maintain energy optimisation of cooling systems; and air quality-monitoring and improvement solutions. The Bank is also exploring to install alternative cooling solutions, such as chilled beams and a direct current distribution system, to further reduce energy consumption. UOB's workplace transformation journey to support the future of work emphasises on employees' safety, security and well-being, core ethos to creating high-performance workplaces. The Bank focuses on users' ergonomic and comfort through use of certified sustainable material furniture and finishes. Workspaces are enhanced with smart and touchless technology features such as smart LED lighting system, facial recognition access and workspace booking systems to support an agile working environment for better employee experience and productivity while safeguarding their health and well-being. About UOB UOB is a leading bank in Asia. Operating through its head office in Singapore and banking subsidiaries in China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam, UOB has a global network of around 500 offices in 19 countries and territories in Asia Pacific, Europe and North America. Since its incorporation in 1935, UOB has grown organically and through a series of strategic acquisitions. Today, UOB is rated among the world's top banks: Aa1 by Moody's Investors Service and AA- by both S&P Global Ratings and Fitch Ratings. For nearly nine decades, UOB has adopted a customer-centric approach to create long-term value by staying relevant through its enterprising spirit and doing right by its customers. UOB is focused on building the future of ASEAN  for the people and businesses within, and connecting with, ASEAN. The Bank connects businesses to opportunities in the region with its unparalleled regional footprint and leverages data and insights to innovate and create personalised banking experiences and solutions catering to each customer's unique needs and evolving preferences. UOB is also committed to help businesses forge a sustainable future, by fostering social inclusiveness, creating positive environmental impact and pursuing economic progress. UOB believes in being a responsible financial services provider and is steadfast in its support of art, social development of children and education, doing right by its communities and stakeholders.







[1] Degree programmes covered include (a) Bachelor of Science with Honours in Applied Computing with a specialisation in Fintech; (b) Bachelor of Engineering with Honours in Information and Communications Technology majoring in Software Engineering; and (c) Bachelor of Engineering with Honours in Information and Communications Technology majoring in Information Security. [2] Global warming potential (GWP) is a measure of the warming effect of a gas relative to the warming effect of an equivalent mass of CO2, usually over a 100-year time horizon.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/uob-to-build-new-global-technology-and-innovation-centre-in-punggol-digital-district-301800443.html SOURCE UOB

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[April 18, 2023] Axiad Expands International Footprint With Canadian Hosting Capabilities

New In-Country Service Delivers Cloud-Based Passwordless Authentication That Aligns to Data Sovereignty and Compliance Requirements for Canadian-Based Companies SANTA CLARA, Calif., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Axiad , a leading provider of organization-wide passwordless orchestration, today announced it has further expanded internationally, delivering its flagship Axiad Cloud product that is now hosted in Canada. This expansion means that Canadian-based customers and organizations that have international operations in Canada are now able to host their authentication solution in country  aligning to certain data sovereignty requirements and helping customers comply with Canada's Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA) and other regulations.



"For many of our Canadian customers that wish to take advantage of the extra security and cost efficiencies of a cloud-based solution for authentication, it is critical that the application and related information is hosted in country," said Yves Audebert, co-CEO of Axiad. "With this new in-country hosting capability, we are now able to support these needs  giving them the benefits of our core Axiad Cloud product, including the ability to become phishing resistant, while also staying true to corporate, local, and jurisdictional requirements for data sovereignty."

Hosted on Amazon Web Services (AWS), Axiad Cloud is an industry-leading platform that delivers a holistic, consistent, and secure "no password" passwordless future that eliminates the friction and risk found in typically fragmented solutions. Axiad Cloud is made up of a full suite of modular, passwordless authentication capabilities, including Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), Phishing-Resistant Authentication, Certificate-Based Authentication for IAM, Passwordless Orchestration, and PKI as a Service. Axiad's new service will be hosted only in Canadian-based AWS facilities, utilizing multiple available zones to provide a comprehensive, high-availability solution. With the offering being hosted locally, Canadian customers are likely to see improved performance relative to solutions not hosted in country as well. Today's news further underscores Axiad's investment in serving its Canadian customers. The company has managed a research and development center in country since 2019, and it also operates a service center in the nation's capital of Ottawa where it provides professional services and technical support for organizations based in Canada. About Axiad

Axiad delivers organization-wide passwordless orchestration to secure people, machines, and interactions for enterprise and public sector organizations that must optimize their cybersecurity posture while navigating underlying IT complexity. The company's flagship product, Axiad Cloud, is a comprehensive, secure, and integrated authentication platform that allows customers to move to a passwordless future without the friction and risk of fragmented solutions. Axiad supports the widest range of credentials in the industry including FIDO, mobile MFA, Windows Hello for Business, YubiKeys, smart cards, TPM and biometrics, and is trusted by public sector organizations and Fortune 500 companies across aerospace & defense, financial services, insurance, healthcare, oil & energy, and more. For more information visit axiad.com and follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn . View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/axiad-expands-international-footprint-with-canadian-hosting-capabilities-301797399.html SOURCE Axiad IDS, Inc.

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[April 18, 2023] UKG Workforce Institute Welcomes City of Memphis CHRO Alex Smith to Its Advisory Board

The Workforce Institute at UKG, a think tank known for its global research and actionable insights on what's impacting HR, organizations, and their people, is privileged to welcome Alex Smith, chief human resources officer (CHRO) for the City of Memphis, Tennessee. Named an HRO Today magazine CHRO of the Year in 2020, Smith has been highly praised for positioning the City of Memphis as a 21st-century model for city governments. She joins the Institute's advisory board of experts, representing the public sector as a proponent of servant leadership and an advocate for working mothers. Since 2007, The Workforce Institute at UKG has helped organizations drive performance by addressing workplace challenges while serving as an important voice for frontline, hourly, and salaried employees across industries. Its 20-person advisory board comprises global practitioners, consultants, and thought leaders with decades of experience in HR and workforce management. In her role at The Workforce Institute, Smith will provide firsthand perspectives from the CHRO of a city with more than one million residents. [Read Smith's first article in a two-part series for The Workforce Institute at UKG, "Servant Leadership Lessons and Growth: Observations from a CHRO."] Smith joined the City of Memphis as CHRO in 2016 and soon began positively impacting city employees and residents. In 2017, the city became a pioneer for offering a private health insurance exchange for its retirees and being the first municipality to provide employees a program for student loan contributions. In 2018, Smith was instrumental in moving the City of Memphis from paper-based processes to cloud HR technology, garnering national recognition for its administrative time savings and recruiting enhancements. Focused on making a difference in the community as part of and beyond her role at work, Smith serves on the advisory council for 3Sixty Insights and the advisory board for Government Executive Media Group's Route Fifty, which connects pople and ideas focused on advancing state, county, and municipal governments across the U.S. She also serves on the board of directors for First 8 Memphis, a nonprofit committed to universal pre-K education in Memphis, and the Soulsville Foundation, which prepares youth and aspiring artists for life success.



Prior to becoming CHRO for the City of Memphis, Smith built a career as a strategic HR partner for key business leaders, serving in HR management roles for Brightstar Corporation and such industry leaders as Target and Microsoft. She has been a featured participant in Netflix's "Real Talk: A Conversation with Black Leaders in HR," as well as a panelist at the HOPE Global Forum, the Aspen Institute's Aspen Ideas event, the National League of Cities' conference, and the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival in Austin, Texas. Smith also has been covered by American City and County magazine, CNBC, Forbes, and Governing Magazine for modernizing government through culture change, technology, and innovative programs. "We are thrilled to welcome Alex Smith to our advisory board at The Workforce Institute, as she brings deep expertise and transformative experience in public service," said Dr. Jarik Conrad, executive director of The Workforce Institute at UKG. "Not only will fellow leaders and our readers benefit from the insights Alex has amassed from running HR for a major city, but they'll also gain from her passion for servant leadership and her firsthand knowledge of building a formidable career while raising children. We have a productive, collaborative future together and we already have some great projects in the works."

Supporting Resources Subscribe to The Workforce Institute at UKG and follow the think tank on LinkedIn and Twitter for insights, research, articles, and podcasts on how organizations can manage today's modern workforce to drive engagement and performance.

to The Workforce Institute at UKG and follow the think tank on and for insights, research, articles, and podcasts on how organizations can manage today's modern workforce to drive engagement and performance. Listen to " The People Purpose Podcast " presented by The Workforce Institute at UKG.

presented by The Workforce Institute at UKG. Follow UKG on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, and YouTube. About The Workforce Institute at UKG The Workforce Institute at UKG provides research and education on critical workplace issues facing organizations around the world. By bringing together a global consortium of HR and workforce management thought leaders, the think tank is uniquely positioned to empower organizations with practical ideas for optimizing the 21st-century workplace while also providing an important voice for employees, including frontline and hourly workers. Founded in 2007, The Workforce Institute focuses its research and education - including books, podcasts, surveys, blogs, and its annual list of workplace predictions - on balancing the needs and desires of diverse employee populations with the interests of organizations in order to manage absenteeism, fight burnout, develop equitable work schedules, and build strong leaders, all to drive inspired performance. For additional information, visit workforceinstitute.org. About UKG At UKG, our purpose is people. As strong believers in the power of culture and belonging as the secret to success, we champion great workplaces and build lifelong partnerships with our customers to show what's possible when businesses invest in their people. Born from a historic merger that created one of the world's leading HCM cloud companies, our Life-work Technology approach to HR, payroll, and workforce management solutions for all people helps more than 75,000 organizations around the globe and across every industry anticipate and adapt to their employees' needs beyond just work. To learn more, visit ukg.com. Copyright 2023 UKG Inc. All rights reserved. For a full list of UKG trademarks, please visit ukg.com/trademarks. All other trademarks, if any, are property of their respective owners. All specifications are subject to change. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005864/en/

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[April 18, 2023] Criminal IP's Official Service Released: A Cybersecurity OSINT Search Engine

TORRANCE, Calif., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Criminal IP, an OSINT-based search engine, officially launched its service on April 17 after a year of solid beta service. In cybersecurity, OSINT detects sensitive information such as personal data, national security, and confidential corporate data, in addition to predicting potential security threats known as 'Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI)'. Using AI technology, Criminal IP collects and analyzes IP addresses from around the world on a daily basis, enabling the detection of cyber threats. Users can choose from four search options (Asset, Domain, Image, Exploit) and efficiently retrieve desired information from large data sets using filters and tags. Criminal IP operated on a beta service for about one year before its official service launched on April 17, 2023. Providing the service in English, Japanese, and Korean, Criminal IP has gained global notoriety in cybersecurity, with 2 million visitorsfrom over 200 countries during its beta phase.



The official service of Criminal IP is offered with three main plans: Lite (for individual users), Medium (for small-sized enterprises), and Pro (for medium-sized enterprises). These subscription plans can be paid for online using credit cards or PayPal. Additionally, there is the option to request a customized Enterprise plan with unlimited data access for large-sized enterprises and an Academic plan available at a discounted rate for academic institutions and research purposes. Moreover, Criminal IP offers a Free Membership plan that provides free credits every month upon sign-up. Overall, Criminal IP's reasonably priced plans are tailored for various uses and provide flexibility and convenience to its users. In the cybersecurity industry, Criminal IP has gained recognition for its innovative technology from various global IT communities and platforms such as GitHub, Reddit, LinkedIn, and other forums. As a result, current users have expressed their excitement and high expectations for the official release of Criminal IP's service. Furthermore, the platform's reliability of technology and data has been further validated by integrating with VirusTotal, Splunk, IP Location, Zabbix, and many more. Criminal IP has plans to expand and improve its features in the near future.

If you plan to attend RSAC in San Francisco from April 24, don't miss the chance to meet the Criminal IP team at booth S-634 and experience their service firsthand. Additionally, AI Spera will showcase Criminal IP ASM (Attack Surface Management), an automated SaaS solution that identifies, detects, and monitors all Internet-connected assets while assessing their vulnerabilities. You can contact AI Spera to apply for a free demo or to request a meeting during the exhibition. About AI Spera AI Spera provides an OSINT-based CTI from a hacker's perspective by developing the latest AI-driven security technologies. AI Spera defends against ever-evolving cyber threats, spanning education and research, corporate security teams, white hackers, national agencies, and cybercrime investigation organizations. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/criminal-ips-official-service-released-a-cybersecurity-osint-search-engine-301799947.html SOURCE AI Spera Inc.

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[April 18, 2023] CampusESP welcomes Customer 300: University of Kentucky

CampusESP, the leading provider of technology solutions that help colleges and universities engage parents and families, announced today that it signed its 300th customer, the University of Kentucky. Founded in 2016, CampusESP has built a reputation as the go-to leader in parent and family engagement solutions, leading with the message that a strong family support system helps students in their search and subsequent success in college. The University of Kentucky is no stranger to recognizing the impact of families. Nicki Jenkins, Senior Program Specialist for the Parent and Family Association, has been focused on engaging families of students for nearly 12 years. She's reached out about events on social media, pulled together multiple newsletters a month and fielded countless phone calls. But one staff member, no matter how dedicated, could not keep up with the changing needs of families. "The role of families and their level of engagement in the UK campus community has been on the rise for the last decade," said Jenkins. "We are seeing more and more that families want to be in the know and want to participate in what's happening. I think that post-COVID we are seeing families not only wanting information, but wanting information immediately." CampusESP will enable the university to streamline communication strategy with families and bring it all to one place where families have opportuities to participate in that communication. They can craft their own journey through the platform, and have control on what information they need and when and how they want to engage.



With CampusESP for Family Communication, UK will be able to share reminders, news and important updates with the school's nearly 22,000 families through automated and fully personalized newsletters and targeted announcements. By getting these families the right content at the right time, parents and families will be better able to advise their students, strengthening their support system and helping them stay successful and on path to graduation. "Customer 300 is a milestone to celebrate, but so is welcoming the University of Kentucky to our list of progressive partner schools," said Dave Becker, CEO and co-founder of CampusESP. "We've watched over the past few years as more and more colleges and universities have first recognized the positive influence parents can make on their students, and then invested in providing content and programs to support that. UK joins our continuously growing network of schools - from Gonzaga to Texas State to Duquesne - who recognize the importance of families and the positive impact a comprehensive engagement strategy can make on their students."

About CampusESP CampusESP is the #1 solution to turn family involvement into student success. A modern, all-in-one family engagement platform helps institutions share personalized, timely content with families across web, mobile, email, and text message. From enrollment to retention to fundraising, today's parents are involved in their student's journey. With a strategic family engagement plan, CampusESP helps colleges and universities channel parent and family influence into results. To learn more, visit campusesp.com. About the University of Kentucky As the state's flagship, land-grant institution, the University of Kentucky exists to advance the Commonwealth. We do that by preparing the next generation of leaders - placing students at the heart of everything we do - and transforming the lives of Kentuckians through education, research and creative work, service and health care. We pride ourselves on being a catalyst for breakthroughs and a force for healing, a place where ingenuity unfolds. It's all made possible by our people - visionaries, disruptors and pioneers - who make up 200 academic programs, a $501 million research and development enterprise and a world-class medical center, all on one campus. In 2022, UK was ranked by Forbes as one of the "Best Employers for New Grads" and named a "Diversity Champion" by INSIGHT into Diversity, a testament to our commitment to advance Kentucky and create a community of belonging for everyone. While our mission looks different in many ways than it did in 1865, the vision of service to our Commonwealth and the world remains the same. We are the University for Kentucky. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005932/en/

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[April 18, 2023] stc Group Offers One of the World's Widest Network Coverage to Enrich the Pilgrim Experience in Makkah

stc Group has succeeded in contributing to the endowment fund of King Abdulaziz by supplying Makkah with the widest network coverage through its in building solution (IBS). Through its best-in-class services and advanced digital solutions, the Group has facilitated seamless, fast and uninterrupted connectivity to pilgrims performing religious rituals in Makkah, in line with the Kingdom's ongoing efforts to provide pilgrims with the best and latest digital services for a safe and enriched experience. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005921/en/ stc King Endowment project (Photo: ATOSWire)



As part of its efforts to strengthen connectivity in the Kingdom, stc Group provided the King Abdulaziz Endowment with seven communication towers covering an area of 1.5 million square meters - one of the largest coverage areas in Saudi Arabia, more than 18,600 antennas, more than 800 small picocells to cover nearby frequencies, and 92 broadcast stations with 4 LTE network operators. The installation of these technologies and infrastructure will provide extensive network coverage within endowment building to ensure high network performance.

The Group also installed the first CDD digitally distributed antenna system in the Middle East in preparation for deploying the fifth-generation network service in the coming months. It will also develop an endowment fund to establish a sustainable digital infrastructure and promote the development of digital products and solutions in Saudi Arabia to strengthen the nation's position as a digital hub in the Middle East and North Africa region. This initiative is in line with stc Group's commitment to build an increasingly connected world, while enriching the lives of individuals and communities by providing world-class communication services that are advanced and reliable. stc Group continues to ensure the digital readiness of the Holy Mosque and surrounding areas to serve millions of Umrah performers and visitors during the Umrah season. *Source: AETOSWire View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005921/en/

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[April 18, 2023] SILVER ANNIVERSARY FOR A MISSION-MINDED ENTERPRISE

Manassas, VA, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- For 25 years, Virginia-based JANSON has been bucking the survival odds for small businesses. This Old Dominion company has been growing in size and profitability during its quarter-century of activity, defying the statistics that only 20% of small businesses survive more than two decades. JANSON was co-founded in 1998 by Janet Marie Chihocky to provide communications solutions to primary aerospace clients. Today it provides a broader set of communications and workplace transformation solutions to clients within the Department of Defense as well as to private industry clients not only in Virginia but across the country. Starting from a small office of two in 1998, JANSON now encompasses three primary locations in Virginia, Georgia, and Florida, and a full-time staff of 30, plus a network of specialists nationwide. Chihocky remains its CEO, and is as ebullient about the companys future prospects as she was at its founding. We have grown and continue to evolve, adapting to the changing needs of our clients. But we remain laser-focused on service excellence today, just as we were at the beginning of our enterprise journey, explains Chihocky. We dont ever want a client to feel that we have gotten too big to respond to their individual needs. JANSONs success is all the more notable because it is a woman-owned company in a sector (defense and military) that has long been dominated by men. It is one of 12.3 million businesses owned by women in the US today, representin 42% of all American business. Women-founded enterprises make up only 18.3% of all employer businesses in the US, yet they generate $1.8 trillion a year.



JANSONs Virginia headquarters has worked in its favor. Virginia has long been known as one of the top business-friendly states in the country: corporate taxes are relatively low and northern Virginias proximity to Washington, DC, facilitates access to government and military centers. In addition, Virginia is ranked the third best state for women entrepreneurs (according to a 2023 survey by NorthOne, a technology company), and has one of the highest percentages of women-owned businesses in the country (10.12%). Location is only a starting point. Chihocky cites four core pillars to account for JANSONs success: teamwork, flexibility, integrity, and faith. Teamwork encompasses not only her employees but the wider network of consultants, suppliers, and clients who have contributed to her companys sterling track record. Flexibility is part of JANSONs DNA, as is integrity in dealing with this greater community. Faith is a personal strength acknowledged by Chihocky as a key to her -- and her companys -- accomplishments.

Therefore, plans for JANSONs silver celebration include activities for employees and for the communities they serve. At the 25-year mark, we look to the future but we are grounded in the work we have done so far, notes Chihocky. We have never tried to be all things to all people. We focus on offering the smartest solutions to our clients, personalized for their specific situations and circumstances. About JANSON? Headquartered in Northern Virginia, JANSON delivers smart and highly customized communications and workplace solutions for its military and defense customers worldwide. It was named one of the Top 10 Most Innovative Defense Technology Companies for 2021 by Global Tech Outlook Magazine. To learn more, please visit jansoncom.com.?

Media Contact:

[email protected]

[email protected]

Attachment Janet Marie Chihocky, Co Founder & CEO of JANSON



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[April 18, 2023] Lawdragon Names 10 Macrae Recruiters to "Global 100 Leaders in Legal Strategy & Consulting"

Macrae, a premier transatlantic legal search firm that places partners and groups at the world's leading law firms, is pleased to announce that Lawdragon has named a record 10 Macrae recruiters to its 2023 guide to the "Global 100 Leaders in Legal Strategy & Consulting." The recruiters honored are Justine Donahue, Lauren Drake, Nick Goseland, Adil Lalani, Joe Macrae, Sarah Morris, Jane Sullivan Roberts, Andy Russell, Jon Truster, and Melinda Wallman. Goseland, Lalani and Morris appear on the list for the first time, while the others are repeat honorees. "These leaders represent the remarkable array of advisors who have helped the legal industry grow into a global business generating hundreds of billions in revenues," Lawdragon stated in announcing the professionals honored this year. "To select them, we received a record number of fabulous submissions for what has become an industry standard guide. We combine those with our essential journalistic research into individuals and organizations, an ongoing river that flows through Lawdragon every day of the year. Finally, we vet candidates with a board of their peers, looking for those whose work represents sustained excellence and respect from competitors." The majority of Macrae recruiters firmwide are recognized in this year's guide. Macrae is the search firm most represented. "It's a great day for our whole company when we make up 10% of the entire Global 100. This confirms to all of us that the innovative approach we have taken to attracting the best in the business to Macrae is really working and being recognized by the law firms and partners with whom we work," said Joe Macrae, Founder and Chairman. "We continue to believe that what sets Macrae apart is not only our focus on hiring and retaining the most talented people in each of our four markets, but on the unique system of collective intelligence that drives both our culture and our business model. Team members' enthusiasm for capturing and sharing market intelligence with colleagues firmwide enables us to set the standard on ensuring that when our recruiters meet with firms, or partners looking to move, they are the most informed and up to date on key market information in the business." Justine Donahue (Managing Director in Washington, D.C.): Donahue, named to the Global 100 for the second consecutive year (and profiled by the publication here), works across practice areas. She has a special interest in antitrust that draws on her 13 years of experience as an antitrust lawyer, including in private practice as well as at the Department of Justice, Antitrust Division. In 2017 she co-founded the Women's Antitrust Forum, an organization that brings together senior-level antitrust practitioners for substantive programs and networking events. She is also active in the ABA Antitrust Law Section's Women. Connected Committee. Justine earned her JD from American University, Washington College of Law.



Lauren Drake (Partner in Washington, D.C.): Drake, named to the Global 100 for the fourth consecutive year (and profiled by the publication here), joined the firm in 2019. She works across practice areas with both senior government and private sector attorneys. Prior to becoming a recruiter, she held a 16-year tenure at McKinsey & Company. Drake founded and leads the Female Law Firm Leaders Roundtable in D.C. and the Women Practice Group Leaders Roundtable in New York, and is D.C. Co-Chair of WILEF (Women in Law Empowerment Forum). She also enjoys writing for publications including The American Lawyer and Bloomberg Law. She holds a J.D. from William & Mary Law School. Nick Goseland (Managing Director in Palo Alto): Goseland places high-performing partners and partner-groups into the Bay Area offices of top-tier U.S. and international law firms. He joined Macrae in 2022 after operating Edgewater Search Group, a Silicon Valley boutique he founded, for several years. He previously spent eight years at global recruiting firm Lateral Link, where he was a Principal and a member of the executive team. Before becoming a recruiter, Goseland was a securities litigator at a Chambers-ranked litigation boutique. He earned his JD from University of San Diego School of Law.

Adil Lalani (Managing Director in London): Lalani focuses on placing high-performing law firm partners with leading U.S., U.K. and international firms. He has over 20 years of experience successfully executing a range of exclusive partner searches and representing individual partners and teams across practice areas. Lalani joined Macrae in January 2023 from Felsham Partners, a boutique legal search firm he founded that specialized in partner-level search assignments in London. He previously worked for a number of international London-based search firms, where his work included spending considerable time in New York. Joe Macrae (Partner in the San Francisco Bay Area/New York/London): Macrae, the firm's Founder and Chairman, established the firm in Palo Alto in 2001. This year marks his fifth consecutive appearance on the Global 100; he was profiled by the publication here. Macrae splits his time between the West Coast, East Coast and the U.K., serving as a career advisor to partners and teams and working closely with an array of Am Law 50 and UK 20 firms to develop and implement strategic expansion plans. Macrae transitioned from law into legal recruitment in 1988, and co-founded ZMB (now Hays Legal) several years later. He holds a law degree from Manchester University. Sarah Morris (Managing Director in San Francisco): Morris places partners and groups into leading law firms in the Bay Area. She has represented partners across practice areas, including Private Equity M&A, Public Company M&A, Capital Markets, Tax, Restructuring and Bankruptcy, Litigation, Investigations, Real Estate, and Employment. Prior to joining Macrae, she spent a decade at global recruiting firm Lateral Link. As a Principal there she focused on attorney placements and client services at law firms in California and managed and developed Lateral Link's in-house division. Morris began her legal industry career practicing M&A at Skadden and holds a JD from Berkeley Law School. Jane Sullivan Roberts (Partner in Washington, D.C.): Roberts, named to the Global 100 every year since the guide was introduced in 2016 (and profiled by the publication here), opened Macrae's D.C. office in 2019. She advises high-profile partners and government attorneys seeking to transition to the private sector. Prior to becoming a recruiter in 2007, she enjoyed a 20-year career at Pillsbury, where she was a partner in the Global Technology Group as well as Executive Partner for Talent Development. Roberts is a Founding Member and former Co-Chair of WILEF's D.C. chapter. She holds a J.D. from Georgetown Law. Andy Russell (Partner in London): Russell, named to the Global 100 for the third consecutive year, has more than 25 years of experience in placing law firm partners and teams across practice areas into the leading law firms in London and Europe. He also specializes in new office openings. Russell joined Macrae in 2017 to open the firm's London Office, having previously served as Managing Director of Fox Rodney Search, which acquired his own firm Abrahams Russell in 2003. He holds a law degree from Sheffield University. Jon Truster (Partner in New York): In the course of his 25-year career as a recruiter in the New York market, Truster, named to the Global 100 for the second consecutive year, has helped hundreds of lawyers advance their careers by making strategic lateral moves and dozens of law firms strengthen their New York presence. He works across practice areas with an emphasis on corporate law, and many firms consider him their go-to advisor when embarking on the most challenging "needle in a haystack" searches. He joined Macrae in 2022 after nearly a decade at New York boutique Greene-Levin-Snyder, where he was co-head of Lateral Partner Placement. Melinda Wallman (Partner in London): Wallman, named to the Global 100 for the fourth consecutive year (and profiled by the publication here), focuses on the recruitment of partners into AmLaw 100 and top 20 UK law firms. She joined Macrae in 2018 from Major, Lindsey & Africa, where she founded the firm's Hong Kong and London offices and led its EMEA Partner Practice Group. Wallman serves as Deputy Global Chair, International for WILEF and on the board of Black Women in Asset Management. In 2018 she founded Reignite Academy, a unique collaboration between London law firms that provides opportunities for women lawyers to return to practice after a career hiatus. She holds a law degree from the University of New South Wales. About Macrae Macrae is a transatlantic legal search firm with offices in London, New York, Washington, D.C., San Francisco, and Palo Alto. Macrae works with the most successful and innovative law firms in the United States and United Kingdom to bring on top lateral partners and partner groups and open new offices. The firm's expertise also includes representing high-performing partners seeking to make strategic moves and senior government attorneys transitioning to private practice. Its commitment to furthering inclusion and diversity in the legal industry is reflected in the candidates it represents as well as within the firm. Macrae is a majority women-owned business, and 80% of team members identify as belonging to demographic groups that are underrepresented within the legal industry. To learn more about Macrae, please visit Macrae.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418006145/en/

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Transparency Market Research

In 2021, Europe held 45% of the global biosimilars market share, and is expected to have a high market attractiveness index during the forecast period, making it a highly lucrative region.

Wilmington, Delaware, United States, April 19, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global biosimilars market stood at USD 20.4 Bn in 2021 and is expected to surpass USD 85 Bn by 2031, expanding at a CAGR of 15.5% during the forecast period between 2022 and 2031.



Globally, a number of pharmaceutical firms are working to produce biosimilars. The global market for biosimilars is likely to grow at a rapid pace in the next few years. Large number of biopharmaceutical medications are likely to lose patents in the near future. As a result, lower healthcare expenses and modifications in the governments regulatory framework are anticipated to propel the global industry.

Identify Key Trends, Drivers, and Challenges in the Market, Which Will Help Vendors Improve their Strategies to Stay Ahead of their Competitors. View Our PDF Sample Report: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=118

Market Snapshot:

Report Coverage Details Market Revenue USD 20.4 Bn in 2021 Estimated Value USD 85 Bn by 2031 Growth Rate 15.5% Forecast Period 20222031 No. of Pages 232 Pages Market Segmentation By Product Type, and Indication Regions Covered North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, South America Companies Covered Pfizer, Inc., Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd., Biocon, Dr. Reddys Laboratories Ltd., Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., Sandoz International GmbH (A Novartis Division), Celltrion, Inc., Amgen, Inc., STADA Arzneimittel AG, and Apotex, Inc

Monoclonal antibodies are being used to treat COVID-19, which has rekindled commercial interest. Manufacturers are stepping up their research abilities to create better immunotherapy medications. Occurrence of adverse effects in cancer patients could be lowered by these medications.

Story continues

The global market is likely to benefit from increase in provision of insurance coverage for biosimilars. A biologic medical product that is thought to be extremely similar to a biologic that has previously received approval is referred to as a biosimilar. The criteria used to certify these biosimilars include their effectiveness, safety, and quality, as well as the exact same pharmaceutical quality standards that apply to other biologic drugs.

Patent expiration of popular biologics is anticipated to offer business opportunities in the global biosimilars market. Increase in biosimilar sales and approvals has resulted in a large drop in the sales of biologics with stable or rising market demand.

Global burden of chronic illnesses has increased. Aging populations and peoples changing lifestyles are the major contributors to the rise in incidence of chronic illnesses. Some of the chronic ailments include cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, obesity, oral illnesses, respiratory illnesses, stroke, hypertension, and diabetes. However, the treatment of cancer and rheumatoid arthritis with biosimilar monoclonal antibodies is becoming increasingly popular.

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Key Findings of Market Report

Based on product, the recombinant non-glycosylated proteins segment accounted for significant market share in 2021. Recombinant non-glycosylated proteins known as biosimilars are necessary for the management of chronic illnesses, which are becoming more common. Changing government regulations as well as growing government attention toward approval of biosimilars are expected to drive the segment from 2022 to 2031.

In terms of indication, the oncology segment dominated the global market in 2021. The segment is expected to be driven by rise in incidence of cancer and increase in research projects on biosimilars across the globe. In the past few decades, the commercialization of biologics has increased as a result of developments in biomedical technology. As a result, cancer treatment has gotten better. In light of the costly nature of cancer treatment, the invention of a biosimilar medicine with equal clinical effectiveness has reduced treatment costs and increased access to care. Consequently, the oncology segment is anticipated to hold a sizeable share of the market.

Global Biosimilars Market: Growth Drivers

Over 70% of cancer-related fatalities occur in middle- and low-income countries, making it the second-largest cause of death worldwide. Age-related surge in cancer incidence is likely to be driven by greater likelihood of developing particular malignancies as people age. Development of biosimilar medications for treating chronic illnesses is anticipated to drive the global market in the near future.



Biosimilars Market: Regional Landscape

Europe accounted for more than 45% of the global industry in 2021. In the European Union (EU), over 60 biosimilars have already been given the go-ahead, and numerous others are currently undergoing evaluation. Thus, the biosimilars market in Europe is likely to expand rapidly in the near future.



Global Biosimilars Market: Key Players

Sandoz International GmbH (A Novartis Division)

Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

STADA Arzneimittel AG

Dr. Reddys Laboratories Ltd.

Pfizer, Inc.

Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.

Buy this Premium Research Report | Immediate Delivery Available at URL https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/checkout.php?rep_id=118<ype=S

Biosimilars Market: Segmentation

Product

Recombinant Glycosylated Proteins

Recombinant Non-glycosylated Proteins

Recombinant Peptides



Indication

Chronic Diseases

Oncology

Autoimmune Diseases

Infectious Diseases

Blood Disorders

Growth Hormone Deficiency

Others



Regions

North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Middle East & Africa

Latin America



About Transparency Market Research

Transparency Market Research, a global market research company registered at Wilmington, Delaware, United States, provides custom research and consulting services. The firm scrutinizes factors shaping the dynamics of demand in various markets. The insights and perspectives on the markets evaluate opportunities in various segments. The opportunities in the segments based on source, application, demographics, sales channel, and end-use are analysed, which will determine growth in the markets over the next decade.

Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insights for thousands of decision-makers, made possible by experienced teams of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants. The proprietary data sources and various tools & techniques we use always reflect the latest trends and information. With a broad research and analysis capability, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques in all of its business reports.

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[April 18, 2023] Taranis Appoints Opher Flohr as Chief Executive Officer

The company's focus on creating breakthrough innovation and value for ag retailers and growers will continue under Flohr, a long-time Taranis executive. WESTFIELD, Ind., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Taranis, the AI-powered crop intelligence leader, is pleased to announce that its Board of Directors has appointed Opher Flohr as Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Bar Veinstein. Mr. Flohr brings over 15 years of experience in operations, finance, and strategy to his new role. Having joined Taranis as Chief Financial & Operating Officer in 2019, he has been instrumental in driving the company's success and expansion. Prior to joining Taranis, Flohr held leadership positions at several global companies, where he helped drive growth and improve operational efficiency. Veinstein, who has led Taranis to 260% growth over the past two and a half years, has accepted a leadership role at a major public company. Veinstein will work closely with Flohr and the management team to ensure a smooth transition. "The ag industry is ripe with opportunities to turn innovation into customer value and business success," said Zvika Orron, Taranis' Chairman of the Board. "Opher is the best person to lead Taranis through its next chapter, bringing a deep understanding of the market, a clear vision of where Taranis is heading, and the ability to execute on this vision. I'd like to thank Bar for substantially accelerating the company's growth and solidifying its strategy to make Taranis the leading provider ofcrop intelligence solutions."



Jim Blome, Taranis Board Member and former President and CEO of Bayer CropScience LP, added, "Taranis is revolutionizing the way that decisions are made on the farm and improving the outcome for retailers and growers alike. Data-driven insights from Taranis deliver a smarter, more connected value chain for agribusiness  ensuring the best possible use of inputs by advisors and growers. I'd like to congratulate Opher on his new role and thank Bar for setting a strong foundation for future success." "It is truly an honor to lead Taranis at this important time. We have had substantial growth and are poised for industry-defining success," commented Opher Flohr. "Ag retailers face tremendous opportunities to build stronger relationships with their growers and drive more value out of every acre. Taranis is at the forefront of this revolution, building on a unique blend of expertise in agriculture, high-end technology, and operational excellence. I thank Bar for his leadership, which has helped us to capitalize on our strengths and deliver even greater value to customers in the coming years."

About Taranis: Taranis is the world's leading AI-powered crop intelligence platform, 100% focused on helping Ag advisors demonstrate value to their growers and build better relationships through full-service, leaf-level data capture. Taranis' insights allow them to accelerate decision making, simplify management, and improve their bottom line. Since its founding in 2015, Taranis has worked with the world's top agricultural retailers and crop protection companies, serving millions of acres for customers in the United States, Brazil, and Europe. Taranis has offices located in Westfield, Indiana, Tel Aviv, Israel, and Campinas, Brazil. To learn more visit www.taranis.com . Contact:

Dani Guzman

+972-542312632

[email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/taranis-appoints-opher-flohr-as-chief-executive-officer-301800788.html SOURCE Taranis

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[April 18, 2023] Maxar Publishes 2022 ESG Report

Maxar Technologies (NYSE:MAXR) (TSX:MAXR), provider of comprehensive space solutions and secure, precise, geospatial intelligence, today announced the release of its 2022 Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Report. The Maxar ESG Report details the company's progress and impact across key ESG priorities, including delivering solutions to address sustainability ambitions on Earth and in space, driving impact in the communities where we operate, developing a more empowered and inclusive workforce, and continuing to lead with strong business ethics. "In 2022, the importance of Maxar's mission and ESG focus became clearer than ever-in the wake of world-changing events, we continued to deliver leading-edge innovation and advanced solutions that helped deliver positive outcomes for our customers, our business and society," said Dan Jablonsky, Maxar President and Chief Executive Officer. "Maxar's second annual ESG Report outlines the steady progress we're making on our ESG journey. I'm proud of how we continue to evolve our capabilities and programs to help address some of the world's biggest challenges, from mitigating the impacts of climate change to building more robust, inclusive talent pipelines for STEM industries." Highlights from the 2022 report include: Advancing space sustainability: Deepened engagement with public and private stakeholder to advocate for policies and frameworks to guide space traffic management. We also introduced a non-Earth imaging (NEI) capability to address space debris and help with space situational awareness.

Deepened engagement with public and private stakeholder to advocate for policies and frameworks to guide space traffic management. We also introduced a non-Earth imaging (NEI) capability to address space debris and help with space situational awareness. Addressing environmental and climate challenges: Continued to deploy advanced geospatial solutions to help with weather tracking, biodiversity management, resilience planning and more. For example, Colombian authorities used Maxar data to identify illegal gold mining activity in the Amazon rainforest, and the company introduced a methane mapping algorithm that can detect and quantify methane emissions.

Continued to deploy advanced geospatial solutions to help with weather tracking, biodiversity management, resilience planning and more. For example, Colombian authorities used Maxar data to identify illegal gold mining activity in the Amazon rainforest, and the company introduced a methane mapping algorithm that can detect and quantify methane emissions. Improving Maxar's environmental footprint: Made progress reducing the company's absolute Sope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions as compared to a 2019 baseline, and the company reduced year-over-year electricity and natural gas use.

Made progress reducing the company's absolute Sope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions as compared to a 2019 baseline, and the company reduced year-over-year electricity and natural gas use. Making progress on our Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging journey: Implemented new policies and resources to help build a diverse, high-performing workforce, including launching a new Global Inclusivity Training course, and became a charter signatory of the Space Workforce 2030 Pledge.

Implemented new policies and resources to help build a diverse, high-performing workforce, including launching a new Global Inclusivity Training course, and became a charter signatory of the Space Workforce 2030 Pledge. Supporting disaster response and resiliency: Through Maxar's Open Data program, provided high-resolution satellite data for 20 major crisis events-from Hurricane Fiona in Puerto Rico to flooding in The Gambia-to aid frontline organizations and nonprofits with response and recovery efforts.

Through Maxar's Open Data program, provided high-resolution satellite data for 20 major crisis events-from Hurricane Fiona in Puerto Rico to flooding in The Gambia-to aid frontline organizations and nonprofits with response and recovery efforts. Building stronger local communities: Continued with K-12 academic outreach efforts to support STEM education, and the Maxar Better World Foundation awarded $295,000 in grants to nonprofit organizations supporting STEM education for underserved populations, veterans and global disaster preparedness and relief.



View and download Maxar's 2022 ESG Report here.

About Maxar Maxar Technologies (NYSE:MAXR) (TSX:MAXR) is a provider of comprehensive space solutions and secure, precise, geospatial intelligence. We deliver disruptive value to government and commercial customers to help them monitor, understand and navigate our changing planet; deliver global broadband communications; and explore and advance the use of space. Our unique approach combines decades of deep mission understanding and a proven commercial and defense foundation to deploy solutions and deliver insights with unrivaled speed, scale and cost effectiveness. Maxar's 4,600 team members in over 20 global locations are inspired to harness the potential of space to help our customers create a better world. Maxar trades on the New York Stock Exchange and Toronto Stock Exchange as MAXR. For more information, visit www.maxar.com. Forward-Looking Statements This press release may contain forward-looking statements that reflect management's current expectations, assumptions and estimates of future performance and economic conditions. Any such forward-looking statements are made in reliance upon the safe harbor provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The Company cautions investors that any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results and future trends to differ materially from those matters expressed in or implied by such forward-looking statements, including those included in the Company's filings with U.S. securities and Canadian regulatory authorities. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, other than as may be required under applicable securities law. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418005139/en/

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[April 18, 2023] Quaker Houghton Announces First Quarter 2023 Earnings and Investor Call

CONSHOHOCKEN, Pa., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Quaker Houghton (NYSE: KWR) today announced the following schedule and contact information for its first quarter 2023 earnings release and investor call.







Earnings Release: Thursday, May 4, 2023 (after market close)

Visit the investor relations portion of Quaker Houghton's

website at https://investors.quakerhoughton.com/



Teleconference: Friday, May 5, 2023, at 8:30 a.m. (ET)

Participate live by phone or listen to live audio webcast through

the investor relations portion of Quaker Houghton's website at

https://investors.quakerhoughton.com/



Dial-in Number: +1-877-269-7756 (toll-free)

+1-201-689-7817 (toll)

Please call 5-10 minutes prior to the scheduled start of the call.

No password required.

If unable to participate live, select from one of the following replay options: Digital Replay: Available through May 19, 2023

Call +1-877-660-6853 (toll free) or +1-201-612-7415 (toll)

Conference ID No. 13737996



Archived Webcast: Visit the investor relations portion of Quaker Houghton's website

at https://investors.quakerhoughton.com/ 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-announces-first-quarter-2023-earnings-and-investor-call-301800639.html SOURCE Quaker Houghton

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Citi 2023 Annual Stockholders' Meeting

Citigroup Inc. will hold its 2023 Annual Stockholders' Meeting on Tuesday, April 25, 2023, at 9 a.m. Eastern Time (ET). This year's Annual Meeting will be held in a virtual format. A live webcast of the Annual Meeting will be available at www.virtualshareholdermeeting.com/CITI2023.

TO PARTICIPATE IN THE VIRTUAL ANNUAL MEETING:

If you are a stockholder, you or your proxyholder can participate, vote, ask questions, and examine our rules of the meeting by visiting www.virtualshareholdermeeting.com/CITI2023 and using your 16-digit control number. Electronic entry to the meeting will begin at 8:45 a.m. ET and the meeting will begin promptly at 9:00 a.m. ET. If you encouner difficulties accessing the virtual meeting, please call the technical support number that will be posted at www.virtualshareholdermeeting.com/CITI2023.







About Citi

Citi is a preeminent banking partner for institutions with cross-border needs, a global leader in wealth management and a valued personal bank in its home market of the United States. Citi does business in nearly 160 countries and jurisdictions, providing corporations, governments, investors, institutions and individuals with a broad range of financial products and services.

Additional information may be found at www.citigroup.com | Twitter: @Citi | LinkedIn:www.linkedin.com/company/citi | YouTube: www.youtube.com/citi | Facebook: www.facebook.com/citi

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418006202/en/
[April 18, 2023] MEET A SCIENTOLOGIST RISES WITH MARNI ATHERTON AND THE "ART" OF ARTISANAL BREAD

LOS ANGELES, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Scientology Network's MEET A SCIENTOLOGIST, the weekly series spotlighting the everyday lives of Scientologists from around the world and all walks of life, announces an episode on artisanal bread-maker Marni Atherton, premiering April 18, 2023. MEET A SCIENTOLOGIST airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Scientology Network. Marni Atherton cashed in a career on Wall Street to follow her artistic ambitions and wound up rolling in dough, expressing her creativity as a baker. Marni combines old-world ingredients and techniques with 21st-century science to make artisanal, handcrafted breads that are winning over bread lovers everywhere. ABOUT MARNI ATHERTON After working 15 years in the securities trade, Marni Atherton was looking for a changesomething that would allow her to flourish creatively. Inspired by her lifelong love of baking, she quickly warmed up to the idea of making it her profession. After extensively researching the best ingredients and old-world bakingtechniques, she started rolling out artisanal breads that were as healthy as they were delicious. Approaching the process of ingredient selection like that of composing a great song, where all the notes are perfectly harmonized, she soon had a chorus of loyal followers singing the praises of her top-quality exotic breads. Today her company, 20 Shekels Bread, is a thriving bakery in Clearwater, Florida, while also taking a slice out of the national bread market via their online shop.



The Scientology Network debuted on March 12, 2018. Since launching, the Scientology Network has been viewed in over 240 countries and territories worldwide in 17 languages. Satisfying the curiosity of people about Scientology, the network takes viewers across six continents, spotlighting the everyday lives of Scientologists, showing the Church as a global organization, and presenting its social betterment programs that have touched the lives of millions worldwide. The network also showcases documentaries by independent filmmakers who represent a cross-section of cultures and faiths, but share a common purpose of uplifting communities. Broadcast from Scientology Media Productions, the Church's global media center in Los Angeles, the Scientology Network is available on DIRECTV Channel 320, DIRECTV STREAM, AT&T U-verse and can be streamed at scientology.tv, on mobile apps and via the Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV platforms.

CONTACT:

Media Relations

[email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/meet-a-scientologist-rises-with-marni-atherton-and-the-art-of-artisanal-bread-301801038.html SOURCE Church of Scientology International

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Over the past 72 hours we've seen Kansas City suffer rampant imbecility as global media diligently work to enforce their version of a controversial story.



Police and some of the better local leaders have worked to assure the public that investigation and legal proceedings are underway. That's somewhat reassuring if only because so many shooting cases linger unattended for years or never see the light of day amid the record-breaking spate of violence currently confronting this cowtown.



Nevertheless . . .

One look at the suspect in the recent Kansas City teen shooting negates so much social justice blathering and racially-charged "advocacy" already working to convict an 84-year-old man without a trial. We notice his mugshot isn't widely circulated in national reports . . . Possibly because his frail features contradict so much of the irresponsible rhetoric surrounding a tragic event.



More to the point . . .

ACTIVISTS, CELEBRITIES AND EVEN THE NATION'S TOP RANKING POLITICOS ARE QUICK TO CONVICT SOME SICKLY OLD SCHOOL DUDE JUST BECAUSE HE'S WHITE!!!

The discriminatory arguments are some of the most disgusting we've seen in hopes of circumventing the judicial process or further police investigation.

Just from the mugshot . . . Here's what we can decipher . . .



The suspect has likely either suffered a stroke or currently endures a myriad of illnesses which require a litany of medications.



The details of the shooting are tragic and we're grateful that the youngster in question is now at home recovering. We shudder to think of the chaos that would ensue if his injuries had been more serious.

In the meantime, the home of the suspect has been the target of repeated vandalism as "the narrative" that has emerged is one of culturally divisive racism and hatred rather than any semblance of reason that would understand the tragic circumstances surrounding this horrible event.

Don't get it twisted . . . It's likely that somebody needs to take away grandpa's guns BUT not even that kind of concern doesn't linger in the mind of the public.

Hack journalists and all manner of online creeps would rather rant against the Castle Doctrine or Stand Your Ground laws rather than delve into the specifics of this case which clearly involves a suspect enduring medical hardship.

Again . . . We don't offer any undue sympathy for a shooting suspect, we merely note the obvious medical CONTEXT because even national media has ignored this important detail.

And at this point we must acknowledge that there's still a great deal the public doesn't know about this shooting and any relevant detail is likely to disappear into the background of the discourse after MSM has already manufactured the culture war chronology to highlight racism, ritual 'Black Lives' chanting and, of course, anti-gun talking points.

To be fair . . .

Our MAGA friends might, in fact, deserve just a tiny bit of blame given that so much of their discourse is fear-based and seems targeted at scaring their demographically-verified older, white audience. Just like their progressive counterparts, so much of right-wing conversation actively encourages hysterical levels of culture war mania in order garner viewership and votes . . . More experienced denizens of the discourse understand this shtick is all about gaining market-share but more than a few Americans are quick to give into panic that's almost always employed to accomplish political aims.



And none of this changes the essential facts of the case . . .

A youngster was shot and THANK GOD HE'S RECOVERING . . . An elderly man is now suspected & charged for the gunfire. Even if convicted, given no prior criminal record, it's unlikely that he'll ever spend any time in jail if he can survive to see his trial.



Meanwhile . . . Scores of activists, celebrities and politicians have swarmed around this story hoping to benefit from outrage and attention ahead of any verifiable details.



Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . .

Biden invites Ralph Yarl, Black teen shot by white homeowner, to the White House During a call with the 16-year-old Missouri shooting victim on Monday night, President Joe Biden wished Yarl a speedy recovery. [...] The post Biden invites Ralph Yarl, Black teen shot by white homeowner, to the White House appeared first on TheGrio.

Celebs Support Black Teen Ralph Yarl After Shocking Kansas City Shooting Ralph Yarl, the 16-year-old Black boy who was shot in Kansas City after accidentally going to the wrong house, has seen an outpouring of support since his near-fatal incident ... including from some celebs who have pitched in big bucks to help with medical bills.

Ralph Yarl shooting - update: Mugshot of suspect Andrew Lester shared as police say 'racial component' to case Ralph Yarl shooting: Prosecutors charge white homeowner Andrew Lester, 85, with attacking Black teenager Black teen Ralph Yarl, 16, shot by white homeowner in Kansas City Teen had accidentally gone to wrong house to pick up brothers Actors Halle Berry, Viola Davis voice outrage over shooting Protests unfold in streets

No words exchanged before homeowner shot Kansas City teen, according to statements to police A White, 84-year-old homeowner charged with shooting Ralph Yarl after the Black teen went to the wrong Kansas City address to pick up his siblings told police they didn't exchange words before he fired at him through a locked glass door - and that he did so because he thought

We notice KSHB is bending their "mugshot policy" to hype this detail . . .

Arrest warrant issued for 84-year-old man charged with shooting Ralph Yarl KANSAS CITY, Mo. - An arrest warrant was issued for the 84-year-old Clay County man charged with shooting 16-year-old Ralph Yarl. Clay County Sheriff's Deputies say Andrew D. Lester is not yet in custody as of Tuesday morning. Lester was charged Monday with first-degree assault and armed criminal action in the shooting of Yarl last Thursday.

Andrew Lester: What we know about white homeowner charged with shooting Ralph Yarl Black teenager Ralph Yarl was shot by a white homeowner after he accidentally rang the doorbell at the wrong address while going to collect his brothers. The 16-year-old's interaction with the suspect in the Northland suburb of Kansas City quickly turned violent and the high school student was left hospitalised with serious injuries.

He was shot after going to the wrong house to pick up siblings. Now his family is demanding justice A 16-year-old Black teenager was shot on Thursday night by a homeowner in Kansas City, Missouri, after he accidentally went to the wrong address to pick up his siblings, police said. Kansas City police told reporters on Sunday that the teenager, Ralph Yarl, meant to go to a house on Northeast 115th Terrace, but he went to 115th Street instead.

Black Teenager Is Shot After Going to Wrong House to Pick Up Brothers Lawyers for the family of Ralph Yarl, 16, said he was in critical condition after being shot twice by a "white male assailant" in Kansas City, Mo. The gunman has not been charged. Send any friend a story As a subscriber, you have 10 gift articles to give each month.

Man charged with shooting Kansas City teen Ralph Yarl surrenders KANSAS CITY, Mo. - An 84-year-old man has surrendered to law enforcement following the shooting of a Kansas City teen . The Clay County Sheriff's Office confirmed to FOX4 that Andrew Lester surrendered himself at the Clay County Detention Center on Tuesday afternoon.

Andrew Lester bonds out after surrendering himself at Clay County jail KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - The man charged in the shooting of a Kansas City 16-year-old was taken into custody Tuesday afternoon. The Clay County Sheriff's Office stated Tuesday afternoon that Andrew Lester had surrendered himself at the Clay County Detention Center. He bonded out a short time later.

Developing . . .
Hipster view of tough legislation moving forward . . .



"The Pitch followed two trans rights rallies in Kansas City this weekend to hear from people directly impacted by a wave of anti-trans legislation, including a likely ban on gender-affirming care for minors in Kansas and a sweeping emergency rule in Missouri restricting gender-affirming for adults and minors starting April 27th."

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . .

KC protests call for solidarity in wake of Missouri's new anti-trans legislation Plaza rally. // Photo by Rachel Potucek Kansas City community members are calling for greater community action to oppose new bans and restrictions on gender-affirming healthcare for minors and adults. The Pitch followed two trans rights rallies in Kansas City this weekend to hear from people directly impacted by a wave of anti-trans legislation, including a likely ban on gender-affirming...

Missouri Senate OKs limits on transgender treatments, sports Missouri youths can no longer receive gender-affirming treatments under a bill passed Thursday by the state Senate. The bill, which now heads to the GOP-led House for consideration, would prohibit doctors from providing puberty blockers, hormones and surgeries to minors for the next four years.

Video: 'I'm terrified', says transgender person receiving gender-affirming care in Missouri Emmett Campbell, a 19-year-old transgender student, describes his journey receiving gender-affirming care outside a Planned Parenthood pop-up clinic in St. Louis.

Demonstrators protest ruling they say hurts transgender people in Missouri Missouri's Attorney General Andrew Bailey is under fire from members and allies of the transgender community.Recent actions from the AG's office have advocates pushing for change.Demonstrators gathered on the plaza in Kansas City Sunday to protest a ruling they say hurts trans people in Missouri.Advocates say a new ruling from the AG's office puts such strict requirements in place that it essentially bans gender-affirming care.The new rule, which goes into effect later this month, would require people to get at least 18 months of therapy before individuals could get gender-affirming care like hormone therapy.

Missouri House votes to restrict access to school sports for trans athletes The Missouri House has passed legislation that stops transgender athletes in the state from participating on school sport teams that align with their gender identity. Members of the Republican-controlled body voted 104-46 Monday to pass the bill. The legislation now goes to the Senate, which has already passed its own version of the bill.

Developing . . .
You are the owner of this article.
Toronto's Luminato Festival returns this summer and here's what you need to know

'This year, we explore art and ideas centred on the importance of home, and invite audiences to feel at home with us,' says Naomi Campbell, artistic director of Luminato Festival Toronto
GUANGZHOU, China, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- April 15, 2023, Biosyngen Pte Ltd (hereinafter as "Biosyngen") announced that the Company received IND approval for its second product in the pipeline, a T-cell redirection therapy for the treatment of EBV-positive lymphoma. A week prior to this, the IND application of the same therapy has just been approved by China NMPA.

A few months earlier, the Company's first product (BRG01) targeting relapsed/metastatic nasopharyngeal cancer has been granted IND approval by both the US FDA and China NMPA. Following this IND approval to initiate the phase I/II clinical trials, Biosyngen makes a significant first-step towards the goal to gaining marketing authorization in the US and China. Biosyngen, an innovative biopharmaceutical company, is now the first in the CGT industry to possess dual IND approval from above regulatory bodies for its two products.

At present, Biosyngen's IND application filing to Health Sciences Authority (HSA) is under review. Within 2023, the Company made plans for other IND applications to carry out phase I/II clinical trials for other therapies such as lung cancer, liver cancer and digestive track cancers across key regions  Singapore, the US and China.

Biosyngen broad director & COO, Michelle Chen, "Currently, cell therapy is a key strategy in healthcare development in many countries, including Singapore, China and the US. It is commonly acknowledged that cell therapy will accelerate human's efforts to better address unconquered diseases to fulfill unmet medical needs and therefore benefit patients around the world".

About EBV-positive Lymphoma

EBV, the first oncovirus identified, is a human herpesvirus and has infected ~95% of global population. It has been listed as Group 1 carcinogen ("Carcinogenic to humans") by World Health Organization (WHO) and proved to be associated with a range of diseases including nasopharyngeal cancer, EBV-positive gastric cancers, lymphoma and lymphoproliferative diseases. EBV is so markedly lymphotropic that, for those who suffer from impaired immune system, especially T cell function, EBV may even induce lymphoblastic malignancies. EBV reactivation was also observed in patients who received bone marrow transplantation and CD7 CAR-T cell therapy, who may even develop EBV positive lymphoma.

Story continues

The therapy developed by Biosyngen is an engineered T cell therapy, also known as a type of adoptive immune cell therapy indicated for nasopharyngeal cancer and EBV-positive lymphoma. Patients' T cells are isolated and genetically modified in a GMP-compliant facility to enhance their ability to recognize and attack specific antigens on cancer cells. The modified T cells are expanded ex vivo and infused back into the patient. The infused T cells would bind to specific antigen on the cancer cells to mediate tumor killing. The preliminary safety and efficacy of BRG01 Therapy have been demonstrated in data from exploratory clinical trials.

The scientific direction of Biosyngen is focused on targeting multiple solid tumors and hematological tumors. The company has independently developed a number of exclusive technical platforms specifically for cancer immunotherapy, including IDENTIFIER, SUPER-T and MSE-T. These platforms are designed for improved safety and efficacy, equipping the company with capabilities to overcome challenges in antigen identification, antibody TCR screening and identification of immune cell function.

Abou t Biosyngen

Biosyngen is a cell and gene therapy biotechnology company, focusing on R&D in immunotherapy and drug development; to achieve the best outcome for cancer patients.

The company's R&D team consists of multinationals from Singapore, China, Germany, Australia, France and the US, many of whom received their Phd. from renowned universities. Biosyngen's strategy of dual R&D centres and dual GMP facilities in Singapore and China, firmly anchors it as an Asian company towards a global ambition. The company's product pipeline potentially addresses an estimated value of 50 billion USD in the global oncology market.

Biosyngen possesses exclusive licenses and patented therapies targeting multiple solid tumors and hematological malignancies including nasopharyngeal cancer, gastric cancer, gastrointestinal cancer and EBV-positive hematological malignancies. The company's first-in-class product BRG01 was granted IND approval by US FDA and CN NMPA for Phase I/II clinical trial. Biosyngen is also one of a few biopharmaceutical companies that possess a portfolio consisting of CAR-T, TCR-T, TIL and multi-specific antibodies.

Based in Singapore and Guangzhou, Biosyngen collaborate closely with the world's leading biomedical research and clinical institutes including A*STAR, Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen, Hannover Medical School, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center and a network of hospitals to advance R&D, develop products and conduct clinical trials in Singapore, Australia and China.

Through our R&D capability and translational medicine platform, Biosyngen have been able to engage the end-to-end cycle in drug development from lead identification, preclinical studies, cell production, quality control, regulatory filing, to clinical studies - integrating the entire chain of R&D, clinical trial, GMP manufacturing and commercialization.

Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/biosyngen-announces-fda-ind-approval-of-its-second-product-for-ebv-positive-lymphoma-301800199.html

SOURCE Biosyngen


Search News Archive : Fast Travel News Promotion Via Search, Social Media + Email Follow Us On : CHINA OUTBOUND TOURISM MARKET 2023 - 2031 | EXCLUSIVE REPORT BY DPI RESEARCH Industry: Destinations

China outbound tourism market to reveal momentous growth by 2026, and the markets growth momentum will accelerate at a CAGR of 32% during the forecast period.



(TRAVPR.COM) INDIA - April 18th, 2023 - This report on the China outbound tourism market provides a holistic analysis, market size and forecast, trends, growth drivers, and challenges, as well as countries analysis covering around 26 nations. The report uses data and analysis to discuss potential lucrative opportunities, current and future trends related to Chinas outbound tourism flow, spending, the purpose of visits, and main destination markets. The report provides a clear insight into current and future tourism developments of the China outbound tourism market. Furthermore, this report uses a country-focused analysis to explore the China outbound tourism market. A detailed country-wise analysis of the market is provided, covering a total of 26 nations. Drivers and the restraints are studied in detail to better understand the market and to understand the future growth opportunity of the market. Learn More @ https://dpiresearch.com/china-outbound-tourism-market-2021-edition/ Report Scope: An Insightful Analysis of the China Outbound Tourism Market and Forecast (2015  2026)

China Outbound Tourism Market Share and Y-o-Y Growth (%), 2015  2026

Detailed Assessment of the Total China Outbound Tourists Volume and Forecast to 2027

Detailed Assessment of the Total China Outbound Tourists Spending and Forecast to 2027

Delivers a Complete Insights on Number of Outbound Visitor Departures from China to Major 26 Countries with Five Years Forecasts

Analyses China Outbound Tourism Expenditure to the Major 26 Countries with Five Years Forecast

Breakdown of Historical and Forecast Data (2015  2026) of Chinese Outbound Tourism in Europe

Breakdown of Historical and Forecast Data (2015  2026) of Chinese Outbound Tourism in Asia

Breakdown of Historical and Forecast Data (2015  2026) of Chinese Outbound Tourism in North America

Breakdown of Historical and Forecast Data (2015  2026) of Chinese Outbound Tourism in Oceania

Breakdown of Historical and Forecast Data (2015  2026) of Chinese Outbound Tourism in Other Major Countries

Breakdown of Historical and Forecast Data (2015  2026) between Leisure, Visits Friends and Relatives (VFR), Business and Other Segments

Delivers an In-Depth Analysis of Evolving Market Trends, Drivers and Restraints of the China Outbound Tourism Market

The Report Analyses the Market Based on Countries and Presents the Forecast in Terms of Value and Volume for the Next Five Years. Countries Covered in the Report Include: The United States

Canada

Dubai

Hong Kong

Macau

Philippines

Thailand

Vietnam

Malaysia

Indonesia

Japan

Singapore

Cambodia

Korea

Taiwan

India

Spain

France

Germany

Italy

Turkey

The United Kingdom

Australia

New Zealand

Nepal

Sri Lanka

Key Questions Addressed by the Report: What is the current size of the overall China outbound tourism market?

How much Chinese tourists spent while traveling abroad?

To what extent did Covid-19 impact Chinas outbound tourism market in 2020?

Which countries have the most Chinese tourists?

Which European country has the most Chinese tourists?

In which country do Chinese tourists spend the most money?

How the rise of Chinese tourism will change the face of the World travel industry?

What are the main drivers and restraints in the China outbound tourism market?

How is the China outbound tourism market anticipated to evolve during the forecast period 2021  2026 ### Please contact the person or company listed above for information regarding the content of this press release. TravPR.com are not the issuers of this press release and are not responsible for the accuracy of the content. Share Release :



CONTACT INFORMATION Name: Maria Rai Company: DPI Research Phone: 7667648693 Email: sales@dpiresearch.com Web: PRESS RELEASE TAGS
By Mathieu Rosemain and Gus Trompiz

PARIS (Reuters) -French shipping group CMA CGM is offering 5 billion euros ($5.48 billion) for the logistics unit of Bollore, the family-run conglomerate said on Tuesday.

For Bollore a deal would mean cutting ties with its biggest business while offering cash-rich CMA CGM a chance to bolster its bid to offer end-to-end transportation services and supply chain management.

The business posted more than 7 billion euros in revenue last year and has 15,000 employees.

News of the indicative offer, made on a cash free and debt-free basis, boosted Bollore's shares.

Bollore disclosed it following a report in shipping publication Le Marin.

Bollore said in a statement that it had agreed to enter into exclusive talks with CMA CGM until May 8.

It said a successful transaction would hike the offer price for its buy back program by 25 euro cents per share.

CMA CGM, privately controlled by the founding Saade family, has seen its earnings surge in the past two years on high freight rates and saturated supply chains.

It has used the profits to support an investment spree, including a stake in Air France-KLM, and, like its shipping rivals, has expanded in logistics.

Bollore, run by the family of billionaire Vincent Bollore, sold its Bollore Africa Logistics business last year to shipping company MSC Group for 5.7 billion euros.

A sale would raise questions about how Bollore uses the proceeds, as it would significantly shrink the scope of the conglomerate, which would be left assets such as Bollore Energy, a distributor of petroleum products in France.

Bollore is also top shareholder in French media giant Vivendi, home to pay-TV group Canal Plus, and holds a 18% stake in Universal Music Group.

($1 = 0.9119 euros)

(Reporting by Benoit Van Overstraeten, Mathieu Rosemain and Gus Trompiz; Editing by Sudip Kar-Gupta and Ingrid Melander)
Well Minister of Sport Shamfa Cudjoe has been busy of late planning for the Youth Commonweal
Ukraine's Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov has shown the French-made AMX-10 armored fighting vehicles, which the Ukrainian marines now have in service.

Reznikov reported this on Twitter and published a corresponding video, according to Ukrinform.

"Ukrainian Marines welcome their new French-made cavalry, the AMX-10s! We took it for a spin together with our warriors, and we agreed to call the AMX-10 the 'sniper rifle on the fast wheels.' Thank you to my colleague Sebastien Lecornu and to [President] Emmanuel Macron with whom I had a chance to meet and to discuss our priorities and needs. And of course, thank you to all people of France for your strong support!" Reznikov said.

Source: Oleksii Reznikov / Twitter

According to him, these fast modern machines with powerful guns will help Ukraine regain its territory.

"This is what Liberty, Equality, and Brotherhood look like," the Ukrainian minister added.

In early January, Macron announced France's decision to provide Ukraine with the first Western tanks  the AMX-10 RC infantry fighting vehicles designed for reconnaissance purposes. Due to their characteristics, they are also known as "wheeled tanks."

In mid-January, Lecornu pledged to deliver the armored vehicles to Ukraine within two months. The AMX-10 RC can also be described as a wheeled tank destroyer or even a light tank. Instead, the Treaty on Conventional Armed Forces in Europe defines the AMX-10RC as a "heavy armament combat vehicle."
Borregaard

18 April 2023: Borregaard ASA (Borregaard, OSE ticker: BRG)



Borregaards Annual General Meeting today adopted all items as proposed on the agenda. The minutes and the list of attendants are available on www.borregaard.com.

Contact:

Lotte Kvinlaug, Investor Relations Officer, +47 922 86 909

This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to the Norwegian Securities Trading Act  5-12 and the Public Limited Company Act  5-11b item 4.








The Government of Slovakia has decided to suspend the import of grain and other agricultural products from Ukraine.

Thats according to a report by Xinhua, citing Slovakias Minister of Agriculture Samuel Vlcan as saying, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

"The decision was made during the governments online meeting, after the recent discovery that 1,500 tons of grain imported from Ukraine had potentially been contaminated by pesticides," the article says.

It is noted that the ban will come into effect on April 19. According to Vlcan, the step will protect Slovakia's agricultural industry and food sector, and especially the health of consumers, Xinhua wrote.

At the same time, Slovakia did not limit the transit of Ukrainian agricultural products through its territory to third countries.

The head of the State Veterinary and Food Administration of Slovakia, Josef Bires, added that his office was checking all food and feed imported from Ukraine for possible contamination.

It should be recalled that over the past weekend, Poland and Hungary introduced similar bans on agri-imports from Ukraine.

The move outraged the European Commission, which has the authority to determine pan-European business approaches.
The Negmar Cicek ship has delivered 30 thousand tons of wheat to the port of Salif in the Republic of Yemen as part of the humanitarian food program Grain from Ukraine.

The relevant statement was made by the Office of the President of Ukraine, Ukrinform reports.

As noted in the Presidential Office, this is the sixth grain shipment under the initiative Grain from Ukraine initiated by President Volodymyr Zelensky to overcome the global food crisis, particularly in the countries most affected by hunger.

The shipment of Ukrainian grain to Yemen was supported by the United Nations World Food Program (WFP) and financial assistance from the United States, France, and Spain governments.

"Our humanitarian program Grain from Ukraine, which we implement together with partners, is already helping millions of people in the countries most affected by hunger and affirms Ukraine's global role as a guarantor of food security in the world," Zelensky emphasized.

Read also: Slovakia suspends grain imports from Ukraine

He stressed that even in the face of a full-scale invasion by Russian invaders, Ukraine is helping the world to guarantee stability and security and is confronting the chaos and food crisis resulting from Russian aggression.

In particular, 30 thousand tons of Ukrainian grain will help about 1.7 million people in Yemen to feed their families for at least a month. Ukraine and its partners have taken similar steps under the Grain from Ukraine program to support African countries, including Ethiopia, Somalia, and Kenya.

According to the Head of the Presidential Office, Andriy Yermak, by implementing the Grain from Ukraine program, Ukraine seeks to fulfill its obligations to the international community regarding global food security.

"The world cannot be without Ukrainian grain," he emphasized.

The representatives of Ukraine and Yemen agreed on further joint efforts to ensure food security in the region. Among other things, it was mentioned that Ukraine will continue to support the people from Yemen despite the war and Russia's attempts to block the export of Ukrainian food.

As reported, the Grain from Ukraine program was launched in November 2022. As of March 2023, 43 countries have joined it.

As part of the UN food humanitarian programs and Grain from Ukraine, 525.8 thousand tons of grain have been sent to countries which need Ukrainian agricultural products.

Photo: Office of President
The ruling Romanian Social Democrat Party (PSD) will ask the government to issue an emergency decree to impose a temporary ban on Ukrainian grain imports.

The relevant statement was made by the SDP, Ukrinform reports referring to Reuters.

"PSD will ask the governing coalition to make a political decision to enable ... the government to issue the decree," according to the party's statement, to which the Minister of Agriculture belongs

At the same time, the party emphasizes that Romania should facilitate the transit of Ukrainian agricultural products to other countries.

"At the same time, Romania must continue to support Ukraine by facilitating the transit of farm products to other European Union states or to Black Sea commercial routes," the statement said.

Read also: Ship with 30 thousand tons of Ukrainian wheat arrives in Yemen

As reported, Slovakia, Poland, and Hungary have banned grain imports from Ukraine.

The European Commission said that it considered unilateral trade decisions by Poland and Hungary, which banned imports of Ukrainian grain and other agricultural products, unacceptable. Polish Minister for European Affairs Szymon Szynkowski vel Sek emphasized that Poland is ready to clarify Brussels' doubts about this order and work on additional solutions to stabilize the situation.
Japan has become the first country to contribute $23 million to cover war-related risks when investing in Ukraine.

This was announced by Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal of Ukraine during the government meeting on Tuesday, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

"Japan is the first country to contribute $23 million to cover war risks when investing in Ukraine," Shmyhal said.

He clarified that this is a contribution to MIGA, which will allow Ukraine to return private foreign investments much more easily.

As reported, on April 14, the Ministry of Reconstruction of Ukraine and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) signed a grant agreement on the allocation of $400 million. The funds will be used to restore Ukraines critical infrastructure, damaged as a result of hostilities.

MIGA, Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency, is one of the five institutions of the World Bank Group. MIGA was established in 1988 to promote foreign direct investment in developing economies by helping to reduce the risks of currency conversion and remittance restrictions, government breach of contract, expropriation, war, and civil unrest.

Since its inception, MIGA has guaranteed nearly $70 billion in 122 developing economies to support nearly 1,000 projects.

MIGA launched the Target Fund for the Support of Ukraines Reconstruction and Economy (SURE).
The European Commission panel held a discussion on the operation of the Solidarity Lanes through which Ukraines foodstuffs are exported amid war, while tomorrow EC Executive Vice President Valdis Dombrovskis will meet with representatives from the five EU countries bordering Ukraine, as well as the Ukrainian officials.

Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager spoke of this today in Strasbourg following the meeting of the European Commissions Collegium, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

Officials from Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, and Bulgaria, as well as Ukraine, will meet to discuss current issues, the commissioner said.

As reported earlier, the mentioned five nations addressed the EC with a letter requesting to take protective measures to cap agricultural imports from Ukraine, as the large flow of grain and foodstuffs entering the EU market from Ukraine led to a drop in prices for such products and inflicted financial damage on agri-companies in countries bordering Ukraine.

Read also: Slovakia suspends grain imports from Ukraine

Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia banned all imports of Ukrainian agricultural products into their territory. Yesterday, the European Commission reiterated its position that it does not support such unilateral action as the issue of trade regulation belongs to the EU competence. Earlier, the EU allocated EUR 56 million to support farmers in EU states bordering Ukraine. Yesterday the spokeswoman for the European Commission announced a second, larger package of such assistance that is being designed.

The EU's Solidarity Lanes were set up on the borders with Ukraine in response to Russia's naval blockade of Ukrainian Black Sea ports, through which Ukrainian grain had been exported to the world market before the war started. The blockade bore a threat of famine in the most vulnerable countries across the world.

To address the threat, on the initiative of the UN and Turkiye, the so-called Black Sea Grain Initiative was launched, which allowed for exporting a certain share of Ukrainian grain but the campaign is currently being blocked by the Russian Federation.

The EU's Solidarity Lanes allowed Ukraine to export over 25 million tonnes of grain by land (by road and rail), as well as via inland waterways.
Swedens Absolut Vodka specializing in alcoholic beverage production will stop exporting its products to Russia.

The move comes after a major backlash in its home country, the BBC reports, according to Ukrinform.

The company initially halted the exports in March 2022 after Russia invaded Ukraine. But its parent company, Pernod Ricard, confirmed that some exports had resumed - which sparked fury.

Swedens Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said he was "very surprised" to hear the producer had resumed exports to Russia.

Many top bars and restaurants in Sweden pulled the drink from their shelves.

Pernod Ricard has now announced they have stopped Absolut Vodka exports again, in order to protect their staff and partners from criticism.

As reported by Ukrinform, the Dutch manufacturer Heineken NV stopped production and sale of its own brand of beer in Russia, joining the wave of companies ceasing their operation in Russia due to the invasion of Ukraine.

Photo: Getty Images
The United Kingdom and Canada have coordinated their positions on long-term support for Ukraine.

According to Ukrinform, Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly reported this on Twitter.

"Kicking off the G7 with [UK Foreign Secretary] James Cleverly. We discussed the need for long-term support for Ukraine as they continue to fight for their freedom," Joly wrote.

She added that Canada and the United Kingdom had stood with the Ukrainian people since day 1. "We intend to do so for as long as it takes," Joly said.

The foreign ministers of the G7 countries are meeting in the Japanese city of Karuizawa. Among the topics they discuss are Russia's war against Ukraine and increased pressure on Moscow.

Photo: Melanie Joly / Twitter
The White House on Monday sharply criticized Brazil after President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said that the United States is encouraging war in Ukraine.

Thats according to the U.S. National Security Council spokesman, John Kirby, Ukrinform reports, referring to NDTV.

"In this case, Brazil is parroting Russian and Chinese propaganda without at all looking at the facts," National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters.

As reported, Brazilian President Lula da Silva called on the world to create an analog of the G20 to end the Russo-Ukrainian war in order to save the world economy. He also called on the U.S. to stop "encouraging war" in Ukraine.

Earlier, Lula da Silva offered Ukraine to cede Crimea to Russia to end the war. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine responded that Ukraine does not sell off its territories and neither does it see any reason to cede even a centimeter of Ukrainian land.
The Ukrainian Foreign Affairs Ministry believes that the approach of President of Brazil Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva does not correspond to the real state of affairs, and invites him to pay a visit to Ukraine in order to understand the true essence of Russian aggression.

The relevant statement was made by Spokesperson for the Ukrainian Foreign Affairs Ministry Oleg Nikolenko on Facebook, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

Ukraine is watching with interest the efforts of the President of Brazil to find a solution to end the war. At the same time, the approach by which the victim and the aggressor are put on the same scales, and the countries that help Ukraine defend against deadly aggression are accused of encouraging war, does not correspond to the real state of affairs, Nikolenko wrote.

In his words, Ukraine does not need to be convinced of anything. The war of aggression is being waged on Ukrainian soil and causing unspeakable suffering and destruction.

More than anyone in the world, we strive to end Russian aggression based on the Peace Formula proposed by President Zelensky, Nikolenko added.

The Ukrainian side also confirmed an invitation for the President of Brazil to visit Ukraine and understand the real causes and the true essence of Russian aggression and its consequences for global security.

A reminder that, on April 16, 2023, President of Brazil Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva called on the world to create an analog of the Group of 20 to end the Russo-Ukrainian war.
The United States is ready to continue to play a leading role in ensuring the non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, especially against the background of Vladimir Putin's threats to deploy nuclear arms in Belarus, and calls on NATO allies to strengthen cooperation on the said issue.

Thats according to U.S. First Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman, who made the statement on Tuesday during the NATO conference in Washington, D.C., an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

"NATO and like-minded partners must be more determined than ever to fortify the infrastructure that's helped keep the world secure for decades," emphasized the U.S. State Department official.

In this context, she emphasized the need to reduce the risks of nuclear proliferation, ensure crisis communication, engage stabilization mechanisms, implement confidence-building measures and multilateral agreements.

Sherman recalled that the United States has repeatedly offered Russia ways to extend the non-proliferation agreements. However, Putin ignored these offers and last year made the horrific decision to launch a brutal violation of Ukraines sovereignty.

Putin has repeatedly used nuclear saber-rattling to ratchet up tensions and raise the stakes of this war, Sherman stressed.

"He said Russia will deploy nuclear weapons to Belarus, he's pushed a legally invalid suspension of new START, endangering global nuclear stability," the U.S. Deputy Secretary of State noted.

In addition, Sherman recalled a fearsome jump in Irans uranium enrichment levels., as well as active tests of strategic nuclear weapons carriers by North Korea.

The official quoted President Joe Biden as saying that "no matter what is happening in the world, the United States is ready to pursue critical arms control measures." Sherman emphasized that this is a position of principle, and that it remains relevant even when others refuse to follow through on their commitments.

In this context, the U.S. representative called on other countries to undertake more efforts to strengthen control over non-proliferation in order to keep the world a safer place.

As reported, the 18th annual NATO conference on weapons of mass destruction, arms control, disarmament, and non-proliferation is being held in Washington on Tuesday.
Boston Scientific's (NYSE:BSX) stock is up by a considerable 12% over the past three months. However, we wonder if the company's inconsistent financials would have any adverse impact on the current share price momentum. Particularly, we will be paying attention to Boston Scientific's ROE today.

Return on equity or ROE is a key measure used to assess how efficiently a company's management is utilizing the company's capital. Simply put, it is used to assess the profitability of a company in relation to its equity capital.

See our latest analysis for Boston Scientific

How To Calculate Return On Equity?

The formula for return on equity is:

Return on Equity = Net Profit (from continuing operations)  Shareholders' Equity

So, based on the above formula, the ROE for Boston Scientific is:

4.0% = US$698m  US$18b (Based on the trailing twelve months to December 2022).

The 'return' is the yearly profit. That means that for every $1 worth of shareholders' equity, the company generated $0.04 in profit.

What Is The Relationship Between ROE And Earnings Growth?

We have already established that ROE serves as an efficient profit-generating gauge for a company's future earnings. We now need to evaluate how much profit the company reinvests or "retains" for future growth which then gives us an idea about the growth potential of the company. Assuming everything else remains unchanged, the higher the ROE and profit retention, the higher the growth rate of a company compared to companies that don't necessarily bear these characteristics.

Boston Scientific's Earnings Growth And 4.0% ROE

It is quite clear that Boston Scientific's ROE is rather low. Even when compared to the industry average of 10%, the ROE figure is pretty disappointing. Given the circumstances, the significant decline in net income by 4.1% seen by Boston Scientific over the last five years is not surprising. We believe that there also might be other aspects that are negatively influencing the company's earnings prospects. Such as - low earnings retention or poor allocation of capital.

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That being said, we compared Boston Scientific's performance with the industry and were concerned when we found that while the company has shrunk its earnings, the industry has grown its earnings at a rate of 14% in the same period.

The basis for attaching value to a company is, to a great extent, tied to its earnings growth. The investor should try to establish if the expected growth or decline in earnings, whichever the case may be, is priced in. Doing so will help them establish if the stock's future looks promising or ominous. One good indicator of expected earnings growth is the P/E ratio which determines the price the market is willing to pay for a stock based on its earnings prospects. So, you may want to check if Boston Scientific is trading on a high P/E or a low P/E, relative to its industry.

Is Boston Scientific Efficiently Re-investing Its Profits?

Boston Scientific doesn't pay any dividend, meaning that potentially all of its profits are being reinvested in the business, which doesn't explain why the company's earnings have shrunk if it is retaining all of its profits. It looks like there might be some other reasons to explain the lack in that respect. For example, the business could be in decline.

Summary

Overall, we have mixed feelings about Boston Scientific. While the company does have a high rate of reinvestment, the low ROE means that all that reinvestment is not reaping any benefit to its investors, and moreover, its having a negative impact on the earnings growth. Having said that, looking at current analyst estimates, we found that the company's earnings growth rate is expected to see a huge improvement. To know more about the latest analysts predictions for the company, check out this visualization of analyst forecasts for the company.

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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Russia is on a spree of promoting pseudo-peacekeeping initiatives across the European Union through its agents of influence, calling for a halt to Ukraine aid and the need to negotiate settlement.

The Polish Anti-War Movement was especially active in this regard, according to Obozrevatel, Ukrinform reports.

"Russia is intensively involving fringe, including nationalist, movements in the pseudo-peacekeeping discourse, and also creating its own projects to promote their pseudo-peacekeeping plans, needed only for the sake of one thing  a tactical pause aimed to accumulate military resources to re-activate hostilities," the report says.

According to Czech journalists with Aktualni Zpravy, activists from the Polish Anti-War Movement recently announced an anti-war action "Together for Peace" to be held in Porajow on the border of Poland, the Czech Republic, and Germany on May 1-2.

By promoting its own pseudo-peacekeeping initiatives through such events, Moscow is trying to increase the influence of pro-Russian movements that weaken the unity of the EU. This is a Russian hybrid threat that makes Europe extremely vulnerable to the full range of challenges and threats that Putin creates, journalists write.

According to the report, if such an event does take place, it will contribute to further strengthening of radical nationalist groups that openly sympathize with Russia despite the latters aggression. This will be a huge step back in the Eurocentric achievements on the part of Poland and the Czech Republic, the publication notes.

This will give Putin the green light to further destabilize Europe, reads the report.

According to the Czech outlet, the Polish Anti-War Movement is an organization established on February 3 of this year in the city of Czestochowa by political scholar Leszek Sykulski. The movement opposes military assistance to Ukraine in the context of repelling Russian armed aggression.

The authors note that the organization was never officially registered in Poland, while being actively promoted online by the Belarusian Military-Political Inspection NGO, which supports the war of conquest unleashed by Putin against Ukraine.

Representatives of this organization were seen at a Prague rally held on March 11 under the slogan Czech Republic against Poverty, where participants tried to remove the Ukrainian flag from the building of the National Museum in Prague," the newspaper writes.

Journalists also drew attention to the fact that the Polish Anti-War Movement consistently promotes anti-Ukrainian and anti-American initiatives, and that its founder Sykulski repeatedly circulates pro-Russian propaganda narratives.

So, even before the Anti-War Movement was created, in November last year, Sykulski said that the United States could force Poland to deploy its troops in Ukraine in the event of a critical weakening of Ukraines Armed Forces, the report says.

Other organizers of the event scheduled for May include United for Freedom and Rodacy Kamracy. The previous organization positions itself as "the Polish unit of a rights organization headquartered in the UK." And the latter is a "nationalist pro-Russian organization that unites all Poles."

At the same time, the symbolism they use is very reminiscent of the one that is popular in the circles of Russian radical nationalists. In particular, it is the Kolovrat, a logo also popular among Russian nationalists who directly declare Russias rights to Ukraine and support Putins aggression, the authors summed up.

As Ukrinform reported earlier, an anti-government demonstration organized by a low-profile pro-Russian non-parliamentary political party Right Respect Professionalism (PRO) took place in the Czech capital Prague on April 16.

During the previous anti-government protest in the Czech Republic in March of this year, also organized by PRO, the police detained a man sporting a Wagner badge and the Russian Z swastika. After the demonstration ended, a group of protesters proceeded to try to break into the National Museum. At the same time, several radicals tried to remove the flag of Ukraine from the Museum building.
Some stocks are best avoided. We don't wish catastrophic capital loss on anyone. Imagine if you held BRAIN Biotech AG (ETR:BNN) for half a decade as the share price tanked 76%. And we doubt long term believers are the only worried holders, since the stock price has declined 40% over the last twelve months. Even worse, it's down 23% in about a month, which isn't fun at all.

It's worthwhile assessing if the company's economics have been moving in lockstep with these underwhelming shareholder returns, or if there is some disparity between the two. So let's do just that.

View our latest analysis for BRAIN Biotech

BRAIN Biotech isn't currently profitable, so most analysts would look to revenue growth to get an idea of how fast the underlying business is growing. Shareholders of unprofitable companies usually expect strong revenue growth. Some companies are willing to postpone profitability to grow revenue faster, but in that case one does expect good top-line growth.

Over five years, BRAIN Biotech grew its revenue at 11% per year. That's a fairly respectable growth rate. So the stock price fall of 12% per year seems pretty steep. The market can be a harsh master when your company is losing money and revenue growth disappoints.

You can see how earnings and revenue have changed over time in the image below (click on the chart to see the exact values).

Take a more thorough look at BRAIN Biotech's financial health with this free report on its balance sheet.

A Different Perspective

We regret to report that BRAIN Biotech shareholders are down 40% for the year. Unfortunately, that's worse than the broader market decline of 2.9%. However, it could simply be that the share price has been impacted by broader market jitters. It might be worth keeping an eye on the fundamentals, in case there's a good opportunity. Unfortunately, last year's performance may indicate unresolved challenges, given that it was worse than the annualised loss of 12% over the last half decade. We realise that Baron Rothschild has said investors should "buy when there is blood on the streets", but we caution that investors should first be sure they are buying a high quality business. Shareholders might want to examine this detailed historical graph of past earnings, revenue and cash flow.

Story continues

For those who like to find winning investments this free list of growing companies with recent insider purchasing, could be just the ticket.

Please note, the market returns quoted in this article reflect the market weighted average returns of stocks that currently trade on German exchanges.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

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HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- With the launch of premium warehouse facilities in strategic locations, Cainiao Vietnam, a subsidiary of Cainiao Network, the logistics arm of Alibaba Group, is meaningfully contributing to the development of the logistics sector in Vietnam. It also aims to serve the needs of Vietnam-based businesses to optimize their supply chain, boost accessibility of logistics operations, and improve customer experience and efficiency.

Experience the full interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/9158751-Cainiao-Vietnam-supplychain-logistics-warehousing/

Home to more than 900,000 small and medium enterprises and sitting at the heart of the AsiaPacific region, Vietnam has long been a major transportation and logistics hub for domestic and multinational corporations to reach major markets such as China and other Southeast Asian countries. Bolstered by the country's strong GDP growth rate of 8% in 2022, thriving e-commerce, and strong manufacturing activities, logistic and warehouse industry contributed 4.5% to Vietnam's GDP and was poised to grow at a CAGR of over 6.69% until 2029.

However, despite its huge potentials, the logistics and warehousing sector in Vietnam still faces tremendous challenges due to lack of high-quality facilities, limited services, high costs, and insufficient infrastructure capabilities.

In recent years, businesses and logistic companies in Binh Duong and inner Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) regions have had to rethink supply chain and operation strategies due to growing pressure on traffic, increasing land costs, hence storage costs, and limited space for future expansion. As a result, to enhance their competitiveness and ensure cost-efficient and undisrupted operations, increasing number of businesses are looking for alternative locations and logistic services within the Greater Ho Chi Minh City region.

Within the context, Cainiao PAT Logistics Park in Long An Province, and Cainiao Dong Nai Smart Logistics Park in Dong Nai are poised to meet the growing demands of businesses that have key customer audiences in inner HCMC, Western HCMC and the Mekong Delta area. Thanks to prime locations providing multi-way access to HCMC, the upcoming Long Thanh International Airport, Cat Lai port and VICT port, the logistic parks provide much-needed services within the bustling industrial clusters and ecosystem in the region.

Story continues

The company's recent deals with leading industry players such as OOCL and VSICO are testament to the value of Cainiao Network.

Both OOCL and VSICO are established and high-ranking 3PL logistics corporations whose end-customers are also leading corporations in various sectors and origins. With Cainiao Network's state-of-the-art infrastructure, premium quality warehouse, efficient property management, professional customer services, and technical assistance, OOCL and VSICO can reduce their overall logistics costs and streamline their operations to fuel further business growth.

With its continuous efforts, Cainiao Network is proud to contribute to optimizing Vietnam's supply chain in various industries including FMCG, retailing, automotive, home appliances, and F&B chains, allowing its clients to leverage its services and extensive networks, and bringing new businesses to current and prospective tenants. Cainiao Network is confident to support businesses in Vietnam with their logistics and warehousing needs and bring better logistics solutions to its clients and Vietnamese consumers.

About Cainiao Network:

Founded in 2013, Cainiao Network ("Cainiao") is a smart logistics company and the logistics arm of Alibaba Group. As part of its commitment to create customer value, it adopts a collaborative approach to logistics that aims to improve efficiency and customer experience for all players along the supply chain. It carries forward Alibaba's mission of making it easy to do business anywhere by aiming to deliver anywhere in China within 24 hours, and across the globe within 72 hours.

For further information, visit www.cainiaovietnam.com

Contact:

Leasing inquiries:

Kathy Nguyen

+84 866 78 78 60

leasing.vn@cainiao.com

Media Contact:

Semantha Tan

Semantha.tan@alibaba-inc.com

Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/cainiao-vietnam-pledges-to-enhance-supply-chain-in-vietnam-with-its-premium-warehousing-facilities-301799603.html

SOURCE Cainiao Vietnam
Moving the needle on ethical future of Pakistan through Global Integrity Education Project

Islamabad, Pakistan - 18 April 2023  Integrity and corruption present significant challenges for Pakistan's global reputation and economy. Pakistan ranks 124th out of 135 countries in corruption perception, resulting in an estimated annual loss of $5.5. billion or 10% of GDP. Furthermore, corruption impedes progress towards Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), hindering efforts to reduce poverty and improve access to education and healthcare. In order to ensure economic recovery and long-term stability, businesses in Pakistan must maintain and conduct due diligence procedures. By adopting transparent and ethical practices, businesses can contribute to Pakistans sustainable development goals. To address these challenges, the UNODC Country Programme in Pakistan has actively promoted innovative methods for developing corporate ethics and integrity.

Since 2021, UNODC has been implementing its Global Integrity Education Project (GIEP) in Pakistan. The project is funded by Siemens Integrity initiative and is being carried out in collaboration with top academic institutions and private sector organizations. This initiative has been necessitated by the ethical difficulties associated with promoting business integrity in Pakistan. By equipping young graduates with ethical mindsets and methods from the start of their careers, the project aims to empower them as "Ethics Ambassadors" in private sector organizations.

Since its inception, the GIEP has charted a successful journey towards implementing innovations in the delivery of ethical education in Pakistan. A few of the key achievements include:

Adaptation, standardization and delivery of the four modules on Challenges of Ethical Living, Ethical Leadership, Behavioural Ethics, and Detecting and Investigating Corruption

Mobilization of 14 corporate firms and two premier academic institutions as partners in implementation

Training of 95 lecturers as mentors, who are now voluntarily teaching the GIEP modules as part of their regular courses, ensuring sustainability

More than 50 senior corporate professionals trained in topics related to Business Integrity

More than 80 guest lectures delivered from the corporate sector entities, showcasing their efforts and support to the promotion of business integrity

The modules were taught to over 20,000 students till now, and 57 students received comprehensive training under the Ethics Ambassadors Training Programme

The Ethics Ambassadors Training Programme (EATP) is a critical initiative under the Global Integrity Education Project (GIEP), aimed at preparing final-year university students in Pakistan to become Ethics Ambassadors in the corporate sector. Through a hybrid, multi-level curriculum, the EATP equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to promote integrity and transparency in their future jobs. The curriculum is practice-focused and includes thematic modules such as corporate social responsibility, ethical decision-making, and stakeholder engagement, taught by experienced mentors and trainers.

Furthermore, the GIEP has yielded significant results and impact, as follows:

A survey conducted after the training of Ethics Ambassadors found that over 90% of participants reported a greater understanding of ethical behaviour and believed that they were better equipped to identify and report ethical violations.

Partner academic institutions have witnessed an increased demand for courses related to ethics and integrity.

Corporate firms in Pakistan have shown increased awareness among of the importance of business ethics, leading to the adoption of policies and practices that promote integrity and transparency.

The Global Integrity Education Project (GIEP) in Pakistan is emerging as a significant integrity movement, spearheaded by the enthusiastic dedication of its Ethics Ambassadors. Mahnoor Ahmad, the Ethics Ambassador for Daewoo Pakistan remarked, This training course has been phenomenal. I began looking at life from a completely different perspective. Working with Daewoo Pakistan, one of the largest transportation companies in Pakistan, Im eager to put into practice values of integrity and ethical leadership.Similarly, Umar Farooq, Ethics Ambassador for A.N. Engineering Industries stated, It has been a huge learning experience for me as a UNODC ethics ambassador with A.N. Engineering Industries. I get hands on opportunities to practically apply my learning. I believe our passion to deliver will keep the values of ethics and morality alive for years to come.

The accomplishments of GIEP are paving the way for ethical education in Pakistan's academic and corporate sectors, empowering young and creative minds to lead change. The UNODC and its partners envision that this project could transform how ethics and integrity are taught and implemented in the private sector, leading to a more ethical and sustainable future for businesses and communities.
Opening arguments begin Tuesday in a major defamation trial against Fox News that tests the extent of free speech rights for media in America -- even when broadcasting election falsehoods

Wilmington, United States, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 18th Apr, 2023 ) :Opening arguments begin Tuesday in a major defamation trial against Fox news that tests the extent of free speech rights for media in America -- even when broadcasting election falsehoods.

Dominion Voting Systems is suing Fox News for $1.

6 billion, alleging the conservative network promoted Donald Trump's baseless claim that its machines were used to rig the 2020 presidential election that he lost to Joe Biden.

Dominion argues that Fox News aired the falsehoods while knowing they were untrue.

The highly anticipated trial, the start of which was postponed by a day amid reports the network is seeking a settlement, could become one of the most consequential libel cases ever heard in the United States.

Jury selection resumed inside the Delaware Superior Court in Wilmington around 9:00 am (1300 GMT), with opening arguments expected later in the day.
Poland has proposed fresh sanctions against Russia over its special military operation in Ukraine, which include a ban on oil imports via the Druzhba pipeline, Polish news agency PAP reported on Tuesday, citing its sources

WARSAW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 18th April, 2023) Poland has proposed fresh sanctions against Russia over its special military operation in Ukraine, which include a ban on oil imports via the Druzhba pipeline, Polish news agency PAP reported on Tuesday, citing its sources.

The agency reported that Poland submitted a document to Brussels in which it proposed further sanctions against the Russian energy industry, in particular, a ban on oil imports via the northern branch of the Druzhba pipeline and a compensating mechanism for the prices for Russian oil that are not affected by the crude oil embargo.

Poland also proposed sanctions on diamond imports from Russia and tightened controls over exports of goods and dual-use technologies to Russia, according to the agency's sources.

In March, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said that yet another, 11th package of sanctions against Russia, would focus on tackling sanctions circumvention and remaining loopholes.

After the start of Russia's special military operation in Ukraine on February 24, 2022, the West, including the EU, rolled out a massive sanctions campaign against Moscow. To date, the bloc has already adopted 10 sanctions packages. The latest package was introduced on February 25 and expanded export, import and personal restrictions, as well as imposed new bans on Russian media. The European Commission estimated the new sanctions package at 11.4 billion Euros ($12.4 billion).
Moscow, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 18th Apr, 2023 ) :Moscow said on Tuesday it had summoned the US, British and Canadian ambassadors for "gross interference" in Russia's domestic affairs.

Russia's foreign ministry did not say precisely why the envoys were called in, but Moscow already blasted them for their statement denouncing a 25-year sentence against Kremlin critic Vladimir Kara-Murza on Monday.

The ambassadors were summoned for "gross interference in Russia's internal affairs and activities that do not correspond to their diplomatic status," the foreign ministry said in a statement carried by Russian news agencies.

The high-profile opposition politician Kara-Murza, who also holds the British citizenship, was on Monday sentenced to 25 years in prison on treason and other charges for criticising the Ukraine offensive.

"Today's verdict is a sad testament to the dark turn this struggle (for democracy) has come to," Canadian ambassador Alison LeClaire said at the time.

Foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova implied the envoys would be called in "to refresh their memories... so that they remember what diplomats should and should not do".
The Council of the European Union and European Parliament reached a preliminary political agreement on the European Chips Act, Commissioner for the Internal Market Thierry Breton said on Tuesday

BRUSSELS (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 18th April, 2023) The Council of the European Union and European Parliament reached a preliminary political agreement on the European Chips Act, Commissioner for the Internal Market Thierry Breton said on Tuesday.

"I have good news for all of us: we have reached a preliminary agreement on the chips law," he told a press conference at the European parliament.

Now, the bill will be sent for final approval to the parliament and Council of the EU.

A proposal for a European chips law was submitted by the European Commission in 2021. The law aims to strengthen Europe's autonomy in semiconductor supplies and the production of microcircuits.
(@FahadShabbir)

MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 18th April, 2023) The fleet of the European Union needs to be present in the Taiwan Strait, as its location is "crucial" for trade, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said on Tuesday.

"Taiwan is ... the most strategic strait in the world particularly as far as trade is concerned. We need to be present there through the freedom of navigation operations and our fleet needs to be there," Borrell told the European Parliament.

Earlier on Tuesday, the foreign ministers of G7 countries reaffirmed in a joint statement the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

The situation around Taiwan has once again escalated after Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen's meeting with US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy earlier in April, with Beijing starting massive three-day military exercises near the island in what it called a "warning" for Taiwanese separatists and foreign powers.

Taiwan has been governed independently from mainland China since 1949. Beijing views the island as its province, while Taiwan  a territory with its own elected government  maintains that it is an autonomous country but stops short of declaring independence. Beijing opposes any official contacts of foreign states with Taipei and considers Chinese sovereignty over the island indisputable.
(@FahadShabbir)

TOKYO (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 18th April, 2023) The G7 foreign ministers condemn North Korea's missile launches, according to a joint ministerial statement after the meeting.

"We strongly condemn North Korea's unprecedented number of unlawful ballistic missile launches, including the April 13 launch of what North Korea claimed as a solid-fuel Intercontinental Ballistic Missile," the ministers said.

"We reiterate our unwavering commitment to the goal of North Korea's complete, verifiable, and irreversible abandonment of its nuclear weapons and existing nuclear programs," the statement said.

On April 13, North Korea test-launched Hwasong-18, its new solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un personally supervised the test launch. The missile flew approximately 1,000 kilometers (621 miles), reaching an altitude of up to 3,000 kilometers.

The G7 foreign ministerial meeting was held on April 16-18 in the Japanese resort city of Karuizawa in Nagano prefecture.
Astum Api Niikinaahk, a supportive tiny home project for people experiencing homelessness in Winnipeg. (CNW Group/Government of Canada)

WINNIPEG, MB, April 18, 2023 /CNW/ - Today, the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion, the Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada and Member of Parliament for Saint BonifaceSaint Vital, and Tammy Christensen, Executive Director, Ma Mawi Wi Chi Itata Centre, announced a combined $7.3 million in funding for 22 new, supportive tiny homes for people experiencing homelessness in Winnipeg. Construction of Astum Api Niikinaahk is complete and relatives, or residents, have moved into their new homes.

On April 7, Minister Hussen visited Astum Api Niikinaahk to meet relatives, tour the property, and see firsthand some of the spaces for on-site services.

Minister Hussen speaks with a relative at Astum Api Niikinaahk about his experience in his new home. (CNW Group/Government of Canada)

Astum Api Niikinaahk, which means "come sit at our home" in Cree and Michif, uses a communal housing model grounded in Indigenous values and informed by the clan system. The project was directly designed by people with lived experience of unsheltered homelessness and uses a collaborative approach informed by an Elders Circle.

Some of the homes at Astum Api Niikinaahk. Each home is named after a sacred animal. (CNW Group/Government of Canada)

The home is located on the Thunderbird House site and features 22 units consisting of 18 bachelor-style units and four fully accessible units. On-site support services include a cultural mentor, nurse practitioners, and other cultural healing supports. Astum Api Niikinaahk provides several amenities for relatives, including a shared kitchen and dining area and laundry facility.

Minister Hussen in the medicine room, a space for relatives to meet with the on-site cultural mentor and to practice healing. (CNW Group/Government of Canada)

Astum Api Niikinaahk is owned and operated by Ma Mawi Wi Chi Itata Centre with support of community partners including Aboriginal Council of Winnipeg, Aboriginal Health & Wellness Centre, Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs' Eagle Urban Transition Centre, Circle of Life Thunderbird House, End Homelessness Winnipeg, and Ka Ni Kanichihk.

A view of one of the units at Astum Api Niikinaahk. Each unit has a double hot plate, fridge, microwave and bathroom. (CNW Group/Government of Canada)

Funding provided by the federal government as follows:

$4.35 million through the National Housing Strategy's National Housing Co-Investment Fund

$2.95 million through from Reaching Home: Canada's Homelessness Strategy. This includes funding by End Homelessness Winnipeg, which is the Community Entity for Winnipeg

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Quotes:

"Everyone deserves a safe and affordable place to call home. That is why we are creating much-needed supportive housing for people experiencing, or at risk of experiencing homelessness in Winnipeg. Astum Api Niikinaahk is a testament to the effectiveness of our partnerships to deliver appropriate and successful housing solutions to Canadians in need. This is our government's National Housing Strategy at work."  The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion

"This project is another concrete example of our government's work in ensuring those experiencing homelessness are able to live in a safe and stable environment. Through this project, those that need it most have access to housing and resources so that they can improve their quality of life and life with dignity. By investing in supportive and culturally relevant housing, we can create stronger, healthier, and more resilient communities for generations to come."  The Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs and Minister responsible for PrairiesCan and CanNor

"They talked. We listened. This is a culmination of extensive community consultation with our unsheltered relatives living in encampments in the heart of Winnipeg. Our housing model invites our homeless relatives to 'come home', not only physically, but spiritually, emotionally, and mentally. We are incredibly grateful to our funding partners for making Astum Api Niikinaahk a reality."  Tammy Christensen, Executive Director, Ma Mawi Wi Chi Itata Centre

"End Homelessness Winnipeg is proud to be a community partner for this important and highly impactful Indigenous resource in our community. Astum Api Niikinaahk not only provides resources for residents but was the result of an incredibly innovative design process that was led by Indigenous peoples and individuals with lived experience of unsheltered homelessness. The engagement and outcomes of this project is a model that should be looked at by communities across the country."  Jason Whitford, CEO of End Homelessness Winnipeg

Quick facts:

The National Housing Co-Investment Fund (NHCF) is a $13.2 billion program under the National Housing Strategy (NHS) that gives priority to projects that help people who need it most, including women and children fleeing family violence, seniors, Indigenous peoples, people with disabilities, those with mental health or addiction issues, veterans, and young adults.

Canada's National Housing Strategy (NHS) is a 10-year, $82-plus billion plan that will give more Canadians a place to call home.

Additional Information:

As Canada's authority on housing, CMHC contributes to the stability of the housing market and financial system, provides support for Canadians in housing need, and offers unbiased housing research and advice to all levels of Canadian government, consumers and the housing industry. CMHC's aim is that by 2030, everyone in Canada has a home they can afford and that meets their needs. For more information, please visit cmhc.ca or follow us on Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Launched in April 2019, Reaching Home: Canada's Homelessness Strategy is a community-based program aimed at preventing and reducing homelessness across Canada. This program provides direct support and funding to Designated Communities (urban centres), Indigenous communities, territorial communities and rural and remote communities across Canada to help them address their local homelessness needs. The Strategy also supports the goals of the National Housing Strategy, in particular, to support the most vulnerable Canadians in maintaining safe, stable and affordable housing and to reduce chronic homelessness nationally by 50 percent by fiscal year 2027 to 2028. The Government of Canada has invested nearly $4 billion over nine years to address homelessness through Reaching Home. This includes funding invested through the COVID-19 Economic Response Plan, the 2020 Fall Economic Statement; Budget 2021 and Budget 2022. To learn more about Reaching Home, visit the Infrastructure Canada - About Reaching Home: Canada's Homelessness Strategy web page.

To find out more about the National Housing Strategy, please visit www.placetocallhome.ca.

Logo of the Government of Canada (CNW Group/Government of Canada)

SOURCE Government of Canada

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Gunfire was heard on Tuesday evening on the outskirts of the Sudanese capital Khartoum despite the announcement of a 24-hour ceasefire, a Sputnik correspondent reported

KHARTOUM (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 18th April, 2023) Gunfire was heard on Tuesday evening on the outskirts of the Sudanese capital Khartoum despite the announcement of a 24-hour ceasefire, a Sputnik correspondent reported.

The ceasefire between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) was to take effect at 6 p.m. (16:00 GMT), following days of heavy fighting.

A Sudanese military source told Sputnik earlier on Tuesday that the truce was agreed to alleviate the worsening humanitarian situation in the northeastern African nation.

Conflict-torn Sudan was to transition to civilian rule after the overthrow of its longtime leader Omar Bashir in 2019, but that process has been repeatedly derailed by infighting within the military.

The regular army accuses the RSF of attacking first, whereas the RSF says that the SAF stormed its base in Khartoum.

The United Nations estimates that at least 185 people have been killed in the four days of clashes and a further 1,800 have been wounded. It says hospitals in Khartoum are running out of medical supplies and at least one UN office, in South Darfur, has been looted.
WASHINGTON (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 18th April, 2023) Writers' unions representing thousands of television and film writers said they had garnered enough support for a strike, which would allow for union leaders to call for a walkout when the contract with Hollywood studios expires on May 1, The New York Times reported.

The unions, comprised of the East and West Coast branches of the Writers Guild of America, have said that compensation for writers has stayed the same over the last decade despite the rising popularity of streaming and demand for television series, the report said on Monday.

"WGA members have authorized a strike by 97.85%. Writers are ready for a deal from the studios that allows writers to share in the success of the content they create and build a stable life," Writers Guild of America tweeted.

Talks between writers and studios have made little progress, even with the current contract set to expire in less than two weeks, and in an email sent by negotiators to the writers, the negotiating committee said that the studios have not offered adequate responses to the economic issues raised by writers, said the report.

Recently, Hollywood bigwigs have been readying to produce some reality television, which does not require script writers - indicating that the executives are expecting a strike and preparing themselves, the report said. Though, a strike authorization is no guarantee that a walkout is imminent.

However, if a strike does happen, talk shows hosted by the likes of Colbert, Fallon, Kimmel, and Meyers will go off-air immediately, it would be a while before viewers at home started to notice the impacts, the report added.

The last time Hollywood writers held a strike was in 2007, which lasted for 100 days and cost an estimated $2.1 billion in lost revenue, said the report.
The first visit by a Saudi foreign minister to Damascus since 2011 confirms a regional policy shift that began last month with a Saudi-Iranian deal to restore relations, a retired Belgian lawmaker who met with the Syrian president twice told Sputnik

MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 18th April, 2023) The first visit by a Saudi foreign minister to Damascus since 2011 confirms a regional policy shift that began last month with a Saudi-Iranian deal to restore relations, a retired Belgian lawmaker who met with the Syrian president twice told Sputnik.

The Tuesday meeting between President Bashar Assad and Saudi Arabia's Prince Faisal bin Farhan marks a high point in the flurry of diplomacy between Syria and the rich Arab Gulf kingdom that was once a key backer of rebels trying to depose Assad. The meeting comes just days after Syrian Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad visited Riyadh for the first time in more than a decade.

"The visits of both Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Syria and Saudi Arabia to the other capital is the sign of a real 'rapprochement' between Syria and Saudi Arabia. This policy shift is of geopolitical importance," Aldo Carcaci, a former member of the federal parliament in Brussels, told Sputnik.

The Chinese-brokered pact between Iran and Saudi Arabia has changed attitudes to the Iranian-backed Syrian government in the Arab world. Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are now working to bring Syria back into the fold after its membership of the 22-nation Arab League was suspended when civil war broke out there in 2011.

Carcaci, who has been to Syria twice as a lawmaker and continues monitoring the situation in the Middle East, said Damascus suddenly found itself a "fashionable destination" for diplomats. Foreign ministers of the UAE, Jordan and Egypt visited it in February, followed by the top Iranian diplomat in March.

"The handshake between Iran and Saudi Arabia under Chinese auspices is a real game-changer.

And we see now the rapid warming of relations between Sunnis and Shia countries in the Middle East. There is a flurry of diplomatic activity under way in the region," the expert said.

Carcaci described the shift underway in the Middle East as the "dawn of the multipolar world" that Russia and China have long aspired for, to counter the United States and its proxies.

"Gone is the secret agreement signed on the Quincy, the American warship, in February 1945, just after the Yalta conference, between (US President Franklin) Roosevelt and (King Abdul Aziz) Ibn Saud: US military 'protection' against cheap oil," Carcaci said.

For Carcaci, this U-turn is the result of US President Joe Biden famously threatening to make Saudi Arabia "the pariah that they are," following the murder of Saudi dissident journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

"The US-Saudi relations are now in the deep-freezer. The Saudis even sell their oil to China in renminbi, and not in dollars anymore. De-dollarization of world trade is a major fear of the US. It shows the rapid decline of the US-European influence in the Middle East and Africa in general," the expert suggested.

Carcaci said Biden could still blow on the embers of the fire in Syria, that have been weakening since his predecessor, Donald Trump, pulled American forces out of the Arab country's north in 2019, although it is much less likely to happen now.

There is also a need for Bashar Assad to make peace with Turkey, which has been fighting it out with Kurdish militants in the northeast of Syria. Carcaci said that the role that China and Russia could still play in the Middle East in the coming years will be "fascinating" to watch from the diplomatic angle.
MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 18th April, 2023) The Russian Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday that it had summoned the ambassadors of the US, the UK and Canadain Moscow in connection with gross interference in the internal affairs of Russia and activities that do not correspond to the diplomatic status.

"In connection with gross interference in the internal affairs of Russia and activities that do not correspond to diplomatic status, the ambassadors of the United States, the UK and Canada were summoned to the Foreign Ministry," the ministry said in a statement.
(@ChaudhryMAli88)

MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 18th April, 2023) Sudan's Rapid Support Forces' (RSF) said on Tuesday they had agreed to a 24-hour humanitarian ceasefire called for by the United States and other countries, while the army has denied knowing of any foreign-brokered coordination on the matter.

"Following a conversation with U.S. Secretary of State (Antony Blinken) and outreach by other friendly nations similarly calling for a temporary ceasefire, The RSF reaffirms its approval of a 24 HR armistice to ensure the safe passage of civilians and the evacuation of the wounded," RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo said on Twitter.

He accused the Sudanese army of having "failed to honor this ceasefire" and continuing the shelling in "flagrant violation of the foundations and principles of international and humanitarian law."

Conversely, Sudan's regular army said in a statement that it had no information on any international coordination of said ceasefire.

"We are unaware of any ceasefire coordination with mediators and the international community.

The 24-hour ceasefire declared by the rebels is aimed at concealing the resounding defeat that they will suffer in coming hours," the statement read.

Earlier in the day, Blinken held talks with the commanders of both sides to the Sudanese conflict  the RSF's Dagalo and the army's Abdel Fattah Al Burhan. He called for a 24-hour ceasefire to allow for the evacuation of civilians and the wounded.

Clashes between the Sudanese army and the RSF broke out on Saturday, with the epicenter in the country's capital, Khartoum. Government forces accused the RSF of mutiny and launched airstrikes against their bases. The RSF claimed control of the presidential palace in the Sudanese capital and the airports in Khartoum and Merowe. The national army denied the presidential palace had been taken over. On Saturday, Al Burhan issued a decree to dissolve the RSF.

The United Nations estimated the civilian toll of casualties from the clashes in Sudan at over 180 killed and about 1,800 injured, as of Monday.
The United Nations has notified the United States of its concern about the recent leaked classified information suggesting that the US government has secretly listened to the conversations of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and other senior officials, informing the host country that such practices are inconsistent with international law, UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said on Tuesday

NEW YORK (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 18th April, 2023) The United Nations has notified the United States of its concern about the recent leaked classified information suggesting that the US government has secretly listened to the conversations of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and other senior officials, informing the host country that such practices are inconsistent with international law, UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said on Tuesday.

"We have now officially expressed to the host country our concern regarding the recent reports that communications of the Secretary General and other senior UN officials have been the subject of surveillance and interference by the US government," Dujarric said during a press briefing.

Dujarric emphasized that the United Nations has made it clear to the US government that "that such actions are inconsistent with the obligations of the United States as enumerated in the Charter of the United Nations and the Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations."
WASHINGTON (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 18th April, 2023) The United States on Tuesday announced a reward of up to $7 million for any information that leads to the arrest or conviction of Ibrahim Aqil, a Hezbollah leader that Washington believes was involved in the 1983 bombings of the US Embassy and US Marine Corps barracks in Beirut.

"Today, on the 40th anniversary of Hezbollah's bombing of the US Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, the US Department of State's Rewards for Justice (RFJ) program, which is administered by the Diplomatic Security Service, is announcing a reward of up to $7 million for information leading to the identification, location, arrest, and/or conviction of Hezbollah key leader Ibrahim Aqil," the State Department said in a statement.

The State Department said Aqil, also known as Tahsin, was a member of Hezbollah's Jihad Council, its highest military body, and also belonged to the group's Islamic Jihad Organization, which claimed responsibility for the 1983 attacks.

The United States also believes Aqil directed several hostage takings in Lebanon that targeted US and German citizens throughout the 1980s.

The bombing of the US Embassy in April 1983 killed 63 people and the October 1983 attack on the Marine barracks killed 241 personnel.

The US Treasury Department in July 2015 imposed sanctions on Aqil, and the State Department in September 2019 branded him as a specially designated global terrorist.
(@FahadShabbir)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met troops in a frontline town Tuesday, a day after Russian leader Vladimir Putin visited occupied zones as Kyiv builds up to an expected counteroffensive

Kyiv, Ukraine, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 18th Apr, 2023 ) :Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met troops in a frontline town Tuesday, a day after Russian leader Vladimir Putin visited occupied zones as Kyiv builds up to an expected counteroffensive.

While 45-year-old Zelensky spoke with soldiers in the heavily bombarded town of Avdiivka in eastern Ukraine, the Kremlin's footage showed Putin, 70, visiting the pro-Western country's occupied territory in the south and east, under a veil of secrecy.

Zelensky went to Avdiivka, located close to Russian-controlled city of Donetsk, and thanked troops for their service, his office said.

A video also showed Zelensky standing outside with soldiers in the heavily bombarded town, apparently not wearing protective gear.

"I have the honour to be here today, to thank you for your service, for defending our land, Ukraine, our families," Zelensky told the soldiers.
Twenty Years On, Blount, Koppel Share Reflections on Legacy of Operation Iraqi Freedom During Dale Lecture Event at USM

Tue, 04/18/2023 - 10:42am | By: David Tisdale

Two important figures in Americas 2003 invasion of Iraq  the general who led the U.S. Army 3rd Division that captured its capital, Bagdad, and an iconic network television journalist who joined him and his troops as an embedded war reporter  reunited April 13 at The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) to discuss the legacy of that fateful and controversial military action for the 2023 Lt. Col. John H. Dale Sr. Distinguished Lecture in International Security and Global Policy, hosted by USMs Dale Center for the Study of War & Society.

Ted Koppel, the acclaimed former anchor for ABC-TVs Nightline program, and Gen. Buford Buff Blount reflected on the 20th anniversary of their time together during Operation Iraqi Freedom, with Dale Center Co-Director Dr. Heather Stur serving as moderator.

Gen. Blount and Koppel answered a variety of topical questions posed by Dr. Stur, including about the leadup to the invasion; the nature of the relationship between the two; the dynamics of both combat and reportage from a military operation taking place in desert terrain; and lessons learned from their experiences, among other inquiries. Dr. Sturs latest book project recounts the exploits of Gen. Blount and the men and women he led on that mission - 21 Days to Baghdad: General Buford Blount and the 3rd Infantry Division in the Iraq War (Osprey Publishing) - which is set for release this summer.

A Bennett Auditorium audience listens as Ted Koppel, the acclaimed former anchor for ABC-TVs Nightline program, and Gen. Buford Buff Blount reflect on the 20th anniversary of their time together during Operation Iraqi Freedom, with Dale Center Co-Director Dr. Heather Stur serving as moderator, during the 2023 Lt. Col. John H. Dale Sr. Distinguished Lecture in International Security and Global Policy, hosted April 13 by The University of Southern Mississippis (USM) Dale Center for the Study of War & Society (USM photo by Kelly Dunn).

Gen. Blount and Koppel discussed the decision to allow an embedded news team, led by Koppel, to cover the American militarys movement into Iraq live; Blount said he was supportive of the move, explaining We wanted for the nation, the world to see the good news side [of the mission], to see the good things our men and women were doing for our country [and help the Iraqi people].

The arrangement came with a mutual understanding that Koppel and his media team be constantly mindful not to give away details the enemy could access for their advantage; I knew he (Koppel) was a professional, so we had trust, Gen. Blount said of the famed journalist.

And Gen. Blount was not concerned about Koppel and his crew giving away critical information about American troop locations and activities, saying it was in their own best interest not to, Because if we got shot at, then they would get shot at, Gen. Blount laughed.

Enemy resistance, weather conditions, and the potential threat of a chemical weapons attack on American troops shrouded the divisions advance from their position in Kuwait into Iraq, including an epic sandstorm that severely inhibited military and media operations, both recalled.

For Koppel, the live coverage for television audiences was in sharp contrast to the days when, during the Vietnam conflict, it would take days for 16-millimeter film of the fighting to be shipped across the Atlantic and enroute to network headquarters in New York for final broadcast, risking timeliness of the story in the competition with other media outlets and in keeping the American public informed on a timely basis.

Noting he had been critical of the decision to invade Iraq even before he was picked to provide embedded coverage, Koppel recounted he doubted claims made that Saddam Hussein had been part of the 9/11 attack or that he possessed weapons of mass destruction (WMD); ultimately, no WMD were found in Iraq. He took pains to emphasize to the audience, which included current and retired military personnel, that his criticism of Operation Iraqi Freedom was then and is now not of the U.S. military, but of the mostly civilian command authority that sent it into combat based on faulty intelligence.

Koppel called for more debate by representatives in the U.S. Congress before any military action is taken in the future, noting a declaration of war by Congress has not been made since World War II, though the U.S. has engaged in multiple military missions since then.

The military did what it was supposed to do, and it performed brilliantly, but was sent on a mission that shouldnt have been made, as the U.S. went from being what was originally planned as a liberator of the country from the dictatorship of Saddam Hussein to a yearslong occupier that often led to disastrous results.

It was never an issue debated in the halls of Congress, Koppel said, emphasizing that engaged debate about sending soldiers into combat should be a standard course of action for a legitimate democracy. It was just done, and the military had to deal with the consequences, further lamenting the thousands of deaths and permanent disabilities and trauma suffered by its soldiers, along with the enormous financial cost. It turned out to be a war that didnt have to be fought.

Koppel praised Gen. Blount as the Mississippi gentleman he has always been and recalled the extraordinary access given to him and his media crew to intelligence briefings, as well as to Blount and his troops for interviews throughout the mission. Koppel made clear, however, that he and his team insisted they would report the good and the bad of the mission, the successes, and the failures. We (media team) werent a PR (public relations) arm of the U.S. military, he said.

Koppel also praised the U.S. military for extraordinary performance in any operation they undertook and emphasized its inclusion of an after action report that examines the successes and failures of any mission, a practice he said that any civilian organization or businesses should consider.

Blount concluded by praising the work of his troops in the mission and thanked Dr. Stur for her upcoming book that he believes will help tell the real story of the 3rd Infantry Division in Operation Iraqi Freedom. He expressed dismay that the overall mission turned into an occupation of Iraq, saying a preferable outcome would have been only a few months of military engagement and then have a select few troops and civilian personnel remain to help with recovery operations, such as humanitarian aid and assisting in getting public services and businesses back online.

None of them ever let me down, never said they were too tired to go on, they were always ready to go, he said of his troops. I felt like their accomplishments were overshadowed by the insurgency [and prolonged occupation of Iraq], and never fully recognized.

The Lt. Col. John H. Dale Distinguished Lecture in International Security and Global Policy lecture series is presented by The University of Southern Mississippi's Dale Center for the Study of War & Society. The lecture series honors the late Lt. Col. John H. Dale, a decorated military veteran of World War II and the Korean War, who earned his master's degree from USM and was a professor of military studies for the University's Reserve Officer Training Program. The lecture series is made possible by the generous support of Lt. Col. Dale's daughter, Dr. Beverly Dale.

Previous Lt. Col. John H. Dale Lecture presenters include Dan Rather, former anchor of the CBS Evening News (2019); General David H. Petraeus, U.S. Army, Retired (2017); Dr. Robert M. Gates, Former Secretary of Defense, CIA Director (2015); Dr. Madeleine Albright, Former Secretary of State (2010); and Sen. Wyche Fowler, former U.S. Ambassador to Saudi Arabia (2008).

For information about the Dale Center for the Study of War & Society, please visit their website.
USM Polymer Professor Wins Prestigious NSF CAREER Award

Tue, 04/18/2023 - 12:07pm | By: Van Arnold

Dr. Zhe Qiang, Assistant Professor in the School of Polymer Science and Engineering at The University of Southern Mississippi (USM), has been awarded a prestigious National Science Foundation (NSF) CAREER grant from the Advanced Manufacturing Program in the Engineering Directorates Division of Civil, Mechanical, and Manufacturing Innovation.

The award will provide Qiang and his team $639,637 over five years to carry out his project: CAREER: Manufacturing of Mesoporous Carbons by Direct Pyrolysis of Plastic Waste for Water Remediation.

I feel very excited and honored about this award, said Qiang. This achievement is largely attributed to my students hard work and creative thinking, as well as the tremendous support I received from our School. Moreover, being another NSF CAREER awardee in our polymer program  the third in four years  I am excited to continue our Schools great tradition among our junior colleagues.

The Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) Program is a Foundation-wide activity that offers the National Science Foundation's most prestigious awards in support of early-career faculty who have the potential to serve as academic role models in research and education and to lead advances in the mission of their department or organization. Activities pursued by early-career faculty should build a firm foundation for a lifetime of leadership in integrating education and research.

The NSF CAREER Award is a testament to Zhe's unwavering dedication to both cutting-edge research and the education of our future polymer scientist and engineers, said Dr. Derek Patton, Director of USMs School of Polymer Science and Engineering. His hard work and commitment to fostering a collaborative and inspiring laboratory/classroom environment is truly an asset to our School and to our Institution.

Qiang, who joined the USM faculty in 2019, explained that his research focuses on developing sustainable solutions for addressing plastic wastes and unlocking their potential for securing clean air and water. His laboratory work includes the assistance of eight graduate students.

Currently, massive plastic waste has been produced and mismanaged, causing significant negative impacts on environment and health, said Qiang. To directly confront this grand challenge, our group has been inventing several commercially viable technologies that can transform plastics to high value functional carbon materials, which can be further used to remediate chemical micropollutants from aqueous environments.

Qiang points out that such innovations in developing materials circularity will be a crucial component for the future of chemical industry to achieve net-zero emission goals outlined by the U.S. government.

To learn more about the award and Qiangs research, visit the NSF Award website.
From supporting his local food bank to raising capital for critical community resources in Red Deer, Alberta, REALTOR Dale Devereaux's determination to better his community has created a lasting legacy.

Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) Logo (CNW Group/Canadian Real Estate Association)

OTTAWA, ON, April 18, 2023 /CNW/ - Dale Devereaux, broker and co-owner of Century 21 Maximum, from Red Deer, Alberta, has been selected as this year's winner of CREA's Canadian REALTORS Care Award. Now in its eighth year, the annual award celebrates and recognizes REALTORS who create lasting impact for their community. Devereaux is being awarded for his significant contributions to Red Deer, including fundraising for local community resources and a 25-year history of supporting individuals facing food insecurity across the region.

"Our committee was deeply impressed by Dale's relentless commitment to charitable efforts that support community development," says Darcy McLeod, Chair of CREA's Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Committee and a member of the selection committee for the award. "During the 37 years of his career as a REALTOR, he has gone above and beyond to contribute to charities such as the Red Deer Food Bank and the Ronald McDonald House, all the while rallying his community to join his efforts. His impact has been immense, providing meals to nearly 30,000 Central Albertans in need, and helping raise an astonishing $12.1 million for the Ronald McDonald House Red Deer."

Devereaux has a longstanding history of giving back to his community, and his contributions grew in tandem with his success as a REALTOR. Upon moving to Red Deer in the 1980s Devereaux joined the Piper Creek Optimist Club, where he helped with many fundraising initiatives, and spearheaded Sunday night bingo, which raised $100,000 a year. The club raised more than $1 million with the funds going to support projects like the Children's Library, Neonatal Intensive Care facilities, and Boys and Girls Club camps.

As his career grew, he applied the same diligent dedication to his volunteer work. After a particularly successful year in 1998, he wanted to do more for his community. Inspired by his passion for cooking and sharing a meal with his family, Dale would go on to donate 100 Christmas meals, one for each house sold that year, to the Red Deer Food Bank, so that families in need could enjoy the holidays.

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That would become year one of Dale Devereaux's "Feed a Family at Christmas" campaign. Each fall since, he has rallied the Red Deer community to donate Christmas dinners to the Red Deer Food Bank. In 2022, Dale's initiative hit the quarter-century mark, a milestone indicative of the consistent support Devereaux has provided for his community.

By the mid-2000s, Devereaux cemented his reputation for being able to couple his passion for community with his exceptional abilities as a REALTOR. The Director of the Ronald McDonald House asked Devereaux for help find a suitable piece of land to build the new Ronald McDonald House in Red Deer. And what was expected to take several years, ended up taking only six months with Devereaux leading the search, which accelerated the project. He proceeded to volunteer to campaign for the construction and opening operations, helping to fundraise a monumental $12.1 million in 15 months. Since opening, the Ronald McDonald House Red Deer has served over 3,000 families by providing them with a home away from home while their child receives medical treatment at the Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre.

"When I was approached to help find a suitable site for the new Ronald McDonald House, I started doing research and I found a lot that was close to the hospital and faces a main road in Red Deer. I think everyone just assumed this was just escarpment land as it had never been on the market. The company that owned it was out of the U.S., so I got a hold of them, and we made a deal," says Devereaux.

Devereaux was selected as the winner of the Canadian REALTORS Care Award 2023 from 48 nominees, each of which made a noteworthy contribution to their community and were nominated by friends, families, community members, fellow REALTORS and the charities they support.

Devereaux's win was announced at CREA's Annual General Meeting, which took place today, and as part of the award, CREA will contribute a $5,000 donation on behalf of REALTORS nationwide to Devereaux's charity of choice, the Red Deer Food Bank. Next year's nominations for the Canadian REALTORS Care Award will open in September 2023.

"CREA's Canadian REALTORS Care Award is very special to me. Real estate has been my career and my life, I'm proud to be a REALTOR and I'm happy to be able to donate my time and resources to causes that are important to our city. This award means so much to me because it highlights the work of REALTORS across our countywe are by nature of our jobs, entrenched in our communities, and many of us spend countless hours volunteering our time to support them," says Devereaux.

List of the Canadian REALTORS Care Award 2023 nominees:

Adam Murphy of Langley, British Columbia

Anne Hilliard of Alliston, Ontario

Bill Keay of Oakville, Ontario

Brandi Wolff of Westlock, Alberta

Brenda MacKenzie of Halifax, Nova Scotia

Brent Pay of Kelowna, British Columbia

Brett Wellman of Calgary, Alberta

Chase Siberry-Bennett of Hamilton, Ontario

Cheryl Bower of Toronto, Ontario

Chris Dunlop of Toronto, Ontario

Cindy Wood of Uxbridge, Ontario

Crystal Hung of Vancouver, British Columbia

Curtus Collins of Regina, Saskatchewan

Dale Devereaux of Red Deer, Alberta

Darin Schiller of Windsor, Ontario

Dave Neill of Guelph, Ontario

Emily Rawson of Fergus, Ontario

Filipe Ferreira of Toronto, Ontario

Gail Pennington of Toronto, Ontario

Gail Power of Kingston, Ontario

Geoff Pawson of St. Catharines, Ontario

Grace Kidd of Midland, Ontario

Jason Simard of Nanaimo, British Columbia

Jay Deakin of Pointe-Claire, Quebec

Jessica Dunn of Regina, Saskatchewan

John Stilinovic to Port Alberni, British Columbia

Leesa Vreugde of Courtenay, British Columbia

Li Song of Saint John, New Brunswick

Linda Smardon of Dartmouth, Nova Scotia

Liz Polak of Oakville, Ontario

Lynn Vardy of Carleton Place, Ontario

Margaret Bowlen of Dartmouth, Nova Scotia

Mary Browne of Ottawa, Ontario

Mike Cowan of Trenton, Ontario

Mike Dirks of Vancouver, British Columbia

Nicole Hacault of Winnipeg, Manitoba

Rachel Hammer of Ottawa, Ontario

Rebecca Kopel of Toronto, Ontario

Rob Benneian of Windsor, Ontario

Rob Graves of Aylesford, Nova Scotia

Rose Iannacchino of Niagara Falls, Ontario

Russ Parry of Regina, Saskatchewan

Sam McDadi of Mississauga, Ontario

Steve Jelenic of Toronto, Ontario

Ted Boldt of St. Catharines, Ontario

Veronique Babin of Montreal, Quebec

Wasim Jarrah of Newmarket, Ontario

Wendy Ronberg of Carleton Place, Ontario

About the Canadian Real Estate Association

The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) is one of Canada's largest single-industry associations. CREA works on behalf of more than 160,000 REALTORS who contribute to the economic and social well-being of communities across Canada. Together they advocate for property owners, buyers, and sellers, and maintain REALTOR.ca, Canada's most prominent online property listings platform.

SOURCE Canadian Real Estate Association

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View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/April2023/18/c5479.html
NEW YORK, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- CaringKind, New York City's leading expert on Alzheimer's and dementia caregiving, announced today that Gayatri Devi MD, Director of Park Avenue Neurology, Clinical Professor of Neurology and Psychiatry at Zucker School of Medicine and Northwell Health --and Attending Physician at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City, will join the organization's Board of Directors.

CARINGKIND ANNOUNCES THAT GAYATRI DEVI MD, DIRECTOR OF PARK AVENUE NEUROLOGY AND CLINICAL PROFESSOR OF NEUROLOGY /PSYCHIATRY AT ZUCKER SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AND NORTHWELL HEALTH, WILL JOIN CARINGKINDS BOARD OF DIRECTORS.

Dr. Devi's research focuses on brain health and optimal treatment of cognitive loss and pain. Her approach to Alzheimer's was published in the New England Journal of Medicine. She is the only American physician board-certified in Neurology, Pain Medicine, Psychiatry, Brain Injury Medicine, and Behavioral Neurology, allowing for a comprehensive approach to brain disease (Curriculum Vitae).

Key prior roles include Clinical Associate Professor of Neurology and Psychiatry at NYU; Assistant Professor of Neurology at Columbia University; Clinical Core Co-director of the Taub Alzheimer's Disease Research Center at Columbia; President of the American Medical Women's Association and the National Council on Women's Health; and Director of the NY Memory and Healthy Aging Services. Dr. Devi has also authored several books, most recently "Spectrum of Hope: An Optimistic and New Approach to Alzheimer's Disease and Other Dementias."

"Dr. Devi has been committed to serving families for decades and has been acknowledged in the medical community as an expert in the field of cognitive deficit. Beyond her medical expertise, she is a kind and warm medical doctor that provides support for her patients," said Eleonora C. Tornatore-Mikesh, President and CEO of CaringKind.

"My philosophy has always been that caring for caregivers is as important as caring for patients," said Dr. Devi. "CaringKind makes caregivers front and center! That makes CaringKind incredibly special to me," she added.

Story continues

CaringKind's mission is to create, deliver, and promote comprehensive and compassionate care and support services for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease and related dementia. They achieve their mission by providing programs and services for individuals with dementia, their families, and professional caregivers. CaringKind works to increase public awareness, collaborates with research centers, and informs public policy through advocacy.

CaringKind's support groups are led by trained facilitators and provide caregivers the opportunity to discuss the many challenges of caring for a family member with Alzheimer's and related dementia, with others who understand. Their goal is to provide a safe setting which promotes mutual support, both practical and emotional, throughout the course of the disease.

In 2022, CaringKind's helpline staff of trained dementia care specialists fielded 5,400 calls from caregivers, persons with dementia, and the worried well, seeking information, referral, and guidance. CaringKind's network of 90 Support Groups is busier than ever, with groups held via telephone, conferencing, or in-person. CaringKind's social workers provided one-on-one and family consultations with more than 1,285 counseling sessions, helping caregivers better navigate the complex road ahead.

About CaringKind

CaringKind* is New York City's leading expert on Alzheimer's and dementia caregiving. With over 40 years of experience, CaringKind works directly with their community partners to develop the information, tools, and training to support individuals and families affected by dementia. They offer a CaringKind Helpline (646) 744-2900 - run by professional staff; individual and family counseling sessions with licensed social workers; a vast network of support groups; education seminars and training programs; early-stage services and a wanderer's safety program. They believe in the power of caregiving and seek a world where everyone dealing with dementia has the support they need when they need it.

https://www.caringkindnyc.org/

*Formerly Known as Alzheimer's Association, New York City Chapter.

More About Dr. Devi

Dr. Devi's entire career is focused on promoting brain health. She established her premier center for neurologic wellness, education, and research in 1999. A peer-chosen Super Doctor- in the top 5% of New York City neurologists, she is board-certified in Neurology, Pain Medicine, Psychiatry, Brain Injury Medicine, and Behavioral Neurology.

Dr. Devi served as Distinguished Visiting Professor at Weill Cornell Medical College, received the Presidential Award from the American Medical Women's Association, and was elected a fellow to both the American College of Physicians and the American Academy of Neurology. Past president of the American Medical Women's Association, she served on the faculty at Columbia and New York University for over 20 years.

Extensively published, Dr. Devi has presented at national and international neurologic meetings, and pioneered research in brain stimulation for neurologic illnesses, with one of largest databases to date worldwide. She has authored several books and cared for prominent members of the community, allowing men and women with neurologic illness to live fulfilling lives.

Media Contact:

Samantha Grossman

sgrossman@rubensteinpr.com

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SOURCE CaringKind
Bakery owner Sean Young was thrilled when high school art students covered the big blank wall over his doorway last spring with a painting of the sun shining over a mountain range made of sprinkle-covered chocolate and strawberry donuts, a blueberry muffin, a cinnamon roll and other pastries.

The display got rave reviews, and Young looked forward to collaborating with the school on more mural projects at his roadside bakery in Conway, New Hampshire.

Then the town zoning board got involved, deciding that the pastry painting was not so much art as advertising, and so could not remain as is because of its size. Faced with modifying or removing the mural, or possibly dealing with fines and criminal charges, Young sued, saying the town is violating his freedom of speech rights.

The painting could stay right where it is if it showed actual mountains, instead of pastries suggesting mountains, or if the building wasn't a bakery.

"They said it would be art elsewhere," Young told The Associated Press in an interview. "It's just not art here."

"The town should not have the right to police art," he said.

The controversy has residents of this town of 10,000 grappling with big questions about creativity and liberty as it tries to preserve its rural character. Like other White Mountain communities that draw skiers, nature lovers and shoppers, Conway is under development pressure, making the sign dispute fraught with worries that any concession to commerce could change what they hold dear.

Many  including the zoning board members  applauded the students' colorful work, but said rules must be followed, even if they're old and outdated. At about 8.6 square meters (90 square feet), the mural is four times bigger than the sign code allows.

Following a longstanding democratic tradition of New England town meetings, residents deliberated how to define a sign before ultimately voting down changes last week. The local newspaper said the proposed wording wasn't clear. Ultimately, a judge may have to resolve what remains an open debate in town.

"Those kids put their heart in it," retiree Steve Downing said. He thinks the painting should stay.

"Everyone has to comply with the ordinance," said Charlie Birch, a former U.S. Forest Service worker. "And even though it was done by the students, which was well done, and I give them a lot of credit for it ... if you have the ordinance, 'One for all,' that's where we are. You can't really make any exceptions, otherwise everybody else will want the exception."

Art teacher Olivia Benish, who worked with three students on the project, apologized to the board in September for not doing "due diligence" to make sure the mural would comply. She didn't respond to requests for an interview. But she told the board members that there has to be a way to give students the opportunity to create positive public works of art "without upsetting the law and the powers that be," according to the town minutes.

The lawsuit Young filed in January argues that the town is unconstitutionally discriminating against him. He asked a judge to prevent the town from enforcing its sign code.

And now other businesses have been drawn into the controversy.

Long before the pastry painting was installed, the town had allowed other murals at a local shopping center, but in December the town found that three of those artworks are, indeed, signs that violate size limits. They go before the zoning board on Wednesday.

Young, who is being represented by the Virginia-based Institute for Justice, asked for $1 in damages. Meanwhile, he's selling T-shirts as a high school art department fundraiser, saying "This is Art" with the artwork on the front, and "This is a Sign" of a roadside "Leavitt's Country Bakery" sign on the back.

"As Conway officials have confirmed, the town does not consider a painting to be a "sign" if it does not convey what town officials perceive to be a commercial message," the lawsuit says. "But the town's perception is that any mural depicting anything related to a business is a 'sign.' This is governmental discrimination based on the content of the speech" and the speaker's identity, it said.

The lawsuit says the town's sign definition is "incredibly broad," with no mention of murals in the code: A sign in Conway is "any device, fixture, placard, structure or attachment thereto that uses color, form, graphic, illumination, symbol, or writing to advertise, announce the purpose of, or identify the purpose of any person or entity, or to communicate information of any kind to the public, whether commercial or noncommercial."

Board member Luigi Bartolomeo said he thinks the pastry painting is art, not advertising. He read the definition out loud at the board's meeting in August, and said he agrees with a local attorney who called it "unconstitutionally vague."

"I think it's a very badly written piece of code here," said Bartolomeo, who recently retired. But Board Chairperson John Colbath said the board has to work with the ordinance, which was approved by voters, and that there is a process to change that.

"If they had done a seasonal mural on the wall  covered bridges and sunflowers and what have you  and it did not represent what your business is in, then it would be more likely to be a well-respected piece of art and not construed as a sign," Colbath said at the August meeting.

He said to Young, "I understand the art thing  and you look and you see a mountain  but the general public sees donuts on the front of the bakery."

"I think most of the people said it's art," Young responded.

In its denial of Young's appeals, the board concluded that the bakery won't be negatively affected without the display.

"This supposed distinction between murals and signs shouldn't matter," attorney Betsy Sanz of the Institute said in a news release. "After all, nothing in the First Amendment distinguishes between art and commercial signs  or commercial speech of any kind."

The town and Young agreed in February to pause court proceedings  and any potential fines or charges  pending a vote on a revised definition that would allow the painting to stay. But it failed in last week's elections, with 805 to 750 voting against it, according to the town clerk's office. The judge now wants to hear from both sides by May 10.

"We're ready to keep going," Young said.

Town Manager John Eastman declined an interview, referring questions to town lawyer Jason Dennis, who said he would soon meet with town officials to discuss next steps.

The Conway Daily Sun offered its analysis in an editorial last week: "Voters smartly concluded that the proposed new definition of signs would only further complicate enforcement. That said, it is not a stretch to conjecture that most voters are fine with the murals at Leavitt's Country Bakery and Settlers Green. We suggest the town figure out a way to back off enforcement until a clearer definition can be written, one that accommodates 'art.'"
A senior United Nations official warned Monday that North Korea is hitting significant milestones in its five-year military development plan, including its launch last week of a reported solid fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM).

The lack of unity and action in the Security Council does little to slow the negative trajectory on the Korean Peninsula, U.N. deputy political chief Khaled Khiari told an emergency meeting of the council. The DPRK is unconstrained, and other parties are compelled to focus on military deterrence.

DPRK are the initials for the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea, or North Korea.

He noted the April 13 launch of what Pyongyang said was a solid fuel ICBM, as well as dozens of ballistic missile launches since the five-year plan was announced in January 2021.

Most of the systems it tested are capable of striking countries in the immediate region, Khiari said. The systems it tested on 13 April, 16 March and 18 February, as well as on two occasions last year, are capable of reaching most points on the Earth.

U.N. Security Council resolutions prohibit North Korea from using ballistic missile technology.

The council has adopted several sanctions resolutions on North Korea since 2006, the last in December 2017. But in recent years, China and Russia have blocked further council action, even as Pyongyangs missile launches have become more frequent, and concerns grow that a seventh nuclear test may be planned.

Chinas envoy defended Pyongyang, saying U.S. joint military exercises are the main trigger for issues on the Korean Peninsula and criticized its flip-flop on policy toward North Korea.

The parties should deeply reflect on the lessons from the past and come to realize that a show of goodwill is vital to building mutual trust and creating the conditions necessary for peace talks, Ambassador Zhang Jun said.

The U.N.s Khiari noted that the Marshal of the Korean People's Army issued a statement Monday opposing the councils meeting.

The United States has repeatedly said it is willing to hold talks with North Korea.

Ahead of the meeting, council members Albania, Britain, Ecuador, France, Japan, Malta, Switzerland, the United Arab Emirates and the United States, along with South Korea, issued a statement strongly condemning the solid fuel launch.

The Security Council must overcome its prolonged silence, act on its responsibility to effectively address this security threat, and promote peace and stability in the Korean Peninsula, U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield said on behalf of the group.

South Korea, which is not a council member but participated in Mondays meeting as an interested party, urged the council to do more to stop revenue flowing to Pyongyangs weapons of mass destruction programs.

The DPRK profits massively from its malicious cyber activities and overseas IT workers with forged identities and nationalities all around the world, which have a seriously destabilizing effect on the international peace and security, Ambassador Hwang Joon-kook said.
Australian Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong has outlined her government's ambition to avert war and maintain peace in the Indo-Pacific region. Wong addressed the National Press Club in Canberra, saying Australia wants to ensure there is a "strategic equilibrium" in Asia where no country dominates, and no country is dominated.

Wong said Monday that Australia did not want competition between the United States and China to career into conflict.

She warned that China continues to modernize its military at a pace and scale not seen in the world for nearly a century with little transparency or assurance about its strategic intent.

Australias foreign affairs minister also detailed the destabilizing consequences of coercive trade measures, political interference and the reshaping of international rules. However, there was no specific mention of China in the remarks or of the trade restrictions Beijing has imposed on various Australian export commodities because of diplomatic tensions stretching back to 2017.

Wong told the audience in Canberra about her concerns for Taiwan, which China regards as a wayward province that could be retaken by force.

Today I want to talk to you about how we avert war and maintain peace  and more than that, how we shape a region that reflects our national interests and our shared regional interests, Wong said. Those interests lie in a region that operates by rules, standards and norms where a larger country does not determine the fate of a smaller country.

Wong said the Canberra government had to lower the heat on any potential conflict, while increasing pressure on others to do the same.

A war over Taiwan would be catastrophic for all, she said. We know that there would be no real winners, and we know maintaining the status quo is comprehensively superior to any alternative.

There has, so far, been no reaction in Beijing to Wongs comments.

Relations between the two Indo-Pacific nations began to deteriorate in 2017 over growing concerns about alleged Chinese interference in Australias domestic affairs.

There followed further disagreements about Taiwan, freedom of navigation in the contested South China Sea and the origins of COVID-19, which was first detected in China.

However, Australias left-leaning government  elected almost a year ago  has made concerted efforts to ease tensions with China, Australias biggest trading partner.

Earlier this month Canberra agreed to suspend its appeal to the World Trade Organization against Chinas punitive tariffs on Australian barley, which Beijing has agreed to review.

Australian officials have said they were confident that China would scrap the tariffs, raising hope that restrictions on other exports, including wine, would also end.
A Russian court on Tuesday refused to release U.S. journalist Evan Gershkovich from jail while he awaits trial on accusations that he spied on Russia while on a reporting assignment last month.

The 31-year-old Wall Street Journal reporter, wearing jeans and a blue-and-white checkered shirt, stood inside a glass and metal enclosure at Moscow City court. He had asked that he be detained under house arrest while awaiting trial.

U.S. Ambassador to Russia Lynne Tracy, who visited Gershkovich on Monday, was present in the courtroom.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said earlier Tuesday that Gershkovich was in good health and good spirits, considering the circumstances after his arrest in Russia late last month.

Speaking to reporters in Japan, Blinken said the United States continues to call for his immediate release from this unjust detention.

Gershkovich was arrested in the Urals city of Yekaterinburg, 1,800 kilometers east of Moscow, while on a reporting assignment. Russia claims, without producing evidence, that he was caught red-handed while spying, collecting what it claimed were state secrets about a military industrial complex.

His newspaper and the U.S. government have rejected the charge of espionage, which, if he were to be convicted, carries a sentence of up to 20 years in prison.

Two weeks ago, his parents, Ella Milman and Mikhail Gershkovich, who fled the Soviet Union in 1979 and live in the eastern U.S. city of Philadelphia, received a two-page, hand-written note from him in Russian, the language the family speaks at home.

I want to say that I am not losing hope, Gershkovich said. I read. I exercise. And I am trying to write.

He also teased his mother about her cooking. Mom, you unfortunately, for better or worse, prepared me well for jail food, he said. For breakfast they give us hot creamed wheat, oatmeal cereal or wheat gruel. I am remembering my childhood.

The parents said in a video interview with the Journal that they remain optimistic for their sons release.

Its one of the American qualities that we absorbed, you know, be optimistic, believe in a happy ending, Milman said. But I am not stupid. I understand whats involved.

Milman said her son felt like it was his duty to report in Russia, even after most Western journalists left the country when President Vladimir Putin ordered the invasion of Ukraine last year. He loves Russian people, she said of her son.

U.S. President Joe Biden has called the journalists detention totally illegal and told the family he was working for Gershkovichs release. The United States has officially declared that Gershkovich has been wrongfully detained and that he is being held as a hostage.

The U.S. has repeatedly told its citizens to leave Russia due to risk of arbitrary arrest.

Some information for this report came from Agence France-Presse and Reuters.
Hundreds of thousands of people in India are demanding the release of a Sarus crane from a zoo in India so it can be reunited with the farmer who rescued the injured wild bird and nursed it back to health.

Arif Gurjar's extraordinary bond with the 5-foot-tall Sarus crane made the farmer from the northern state of Uttar Pradesh a social media celebrity as it made international headlines.

But soon after the story of Gurjar and the bird spread across media, wildlife officials landed in his village of Mandkha, confiscated the bird, and placed it in a cage at a zoo in the Uttar Pradesh city of Kanpur.

The Indian public sharply protested the separation of the bird from Gurjar. Many are flooding Twitter to protest the zoos caging of the crane. Several people have also launched online petitions on Change.org asking for the crane to be freed and returned to Gurjar.

In March 2022, Gurjar discovered a crimson-throated Sarus crane that lay in a field shivering and bleeding from a broken leg. He brought it home and using traditional medicine, nursed it back to health in six weeks before setting it free.

Gurjar thought that the bird would fly away as soon as it recovered. The wild bird, however, had no intention of leaving its new human friend.

"After I found the bird wounded, I nursed it well and performed the duty of a human being, Gurjar, 30, told VOA. Strangely enough, it did not fly away after its recovery. It chose to remain closer to me, and my emotional attachment to it grew. We became good friends.

In one of the several videos of the pair that went viral online, the Sarus crane  which Gurjar simply calls "Sarus"  can be seen flying alongside him as he rides his motorcycle.

The bird ate from Gurjar's hands, sharing his traditional Indian meals.

Even when Sarus regularly visited a nearby field or a body of water  usually for a few hours during the day  it still flew back to Gurjar's house in Mandkha village in the afternoon.

The two friends were separated, however, when Indian wildlife authorities confiscated the crane on March 21. Saying the Sarus crane  the worlds tallest flying bird  is classified as a "vulnerable" species and cannot be kept as a pet, authorities charged Gurjar under India's Wildlife Protection Act "for keeping an endangered bird at home."

On April 11, Gurjar was allowed to visit Sarus for the first time since the birds zoo confinement.

In a video documenting Gurjar's zoo visit that has evoked deep emotion in many viewers, Sarus can be seen flapping its wings frantically and jumping and flying around the cage upon seeing Gurjar  apparently attempting to rush out of the cage and reunite with its human friend.

During his visit to the zoo, Gurjar was allowed to stand outside Sarus' cage "just for five minutes," he said.

"[Before Sarus was confiscated,] when I returned home after being away for some hours, Sarus would run towards me jumping in joy and we would embrace. After seeing me and hearing my voice at the zoo, Sarus attempted to come towards me in the same manner," Gurjar told VOA.

"It was very painful for me to see Sarus trying to reach me and being stopped by the wall of the cage.  It hurts to see Sarus confined in a cage with no freedom."

Last week, Varun Gandhi, a member of Parliament from India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party, called for the crane to be freed from the zoo cage.

"The love between Sarus and Arif is genuine. The joy that we witnessed when the two met at the zoo shows how clean and guileless their love is. This beautiful bird has been born to fly in the sky or move around freely; it should not be confined in a cage," the member of Parliament tweeted in Hindi, with the video of the bird jumping around excitedly in the cage after seeing Gurjar.

"Please return the bird its sky, freedom and the friend."



As of Tuesday afternoon, one of the petitions on Change.org, "Free the Sarus Crane Now!" had amassed more than 14,000 signatures. The online petition, started by Soumitra Pathare, is addressed to the Environment, Forest and Climate Change Department of Uttar Pradesh and emphasizes the distress plaguing the caged bird as it is away from its human friend.

"The crane committed no crime," the petition said. "Is being friendly with human beings a crime? Why is the bird being punished for no reason? It has lost its freedom and is clearly distressed and unhappy in the cage."

Gurjar has not returned to his village since seeing Sarus at the zoo.

"Sarus became the center of my universe since it chose me as a friend. My house feels empty now that it's gone.  Sometimes I also hold myself responsible for it ending up confined in a cage, and it makes me feel guilty," Gurjar said Tuesday from a friend's place in Lucknow, 150 kilometers away.

"I think I cannot return to my village until Sarus is freed and we are reunited."
The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation paused its use of Twitter Monday after the social media platform owned by Elon Musk stamped CBCs account with a label the public broadcaster says is intended to undermine its credibility.

Twitter labeled CBC/Radio-Canada government-funded media"  the same label that prompted National Public Radio in the U.S. to similarly quit Twitter last Wednesday.

Twitter can be a powerful tool for our journalists to communicate with Canadians, but it undermines the accuracy and professionalism of the work they do to allow our independence to be falsely described in this way, CBC spokesman Leon Mar said in a statement announcing the change Monday afternoon.

Consequently, we will be pausing our activity on our corporate Twitter account and all CBC and Radio-Canada news-related accounts," the statement said.

CBC has sent a letter to Twitter asking the company to reexamine the designation.

CBC does not meet those criteria, Mar argued, because it is publicly funded through a parliamentary appropriation that is voted upon by all members of Parliament, and its editorial independence is protected in law in the Broadcasting Act.

The CBCs board of directors determines how the funding it receives is spent. In 2021-22, the CBC received more than $1.2 billion Canadian (US$900 million) in government funding.

Opposition Conservative Party of Canada leader Pierre Poilievre had urged Twitter to label CBC. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau criticized Poilievre for what he called an attack on a foundational Canadian institution.

Twitter initially had labeled NPRs main account as state-affiliated media, a term also used to identify media outlets controlled or heavily influenced by authoritarian governments, such as Russia and China. Twitter later changed the label to government-funded media, but to NPR  which relies on the government for a tiny fraction of its funding  its still misleading.

Twitter responded to a request for comment about why the label was applied and whether it would be removed or changed with an auto-generated email bearing a poop emoji.

Twitter, more than any of its rivals, has said its users come to it to keep track of current events. That made it an attractive place for news outlets to share their stories and reinforced Twitters moves to combat the spread of misinformation. But Musk has long expressed disdain for professional journalists and said he wants to elevate the views and expertise of the average citizen.
The European Union ambassador to Sudan was attacked in his home in Khartoum on Monday, the bloc's top diplomat Josep Borrell said, as fighting between rival generals gripped the nation.

"A few hours ago, the EU Ambassador in Sudan was assaulted in his own residency," Borrell wrote on Twitter, without detailing any injuries to the envoy.

"Security of diplomatic premises and staff is a primary responsibility of Sudanese authorities and an obligation under international law," he added.

The European Union's ambassador to Sudan is 58-year-old Irish diplomat Aidan O'Hara. E.U. spokeswoman Nabila Massrali told AFP that he was "OK" following the assault.

"The security of the staff is our priority," she said. "The EU delegation has not been evacuated. Security measures are being assessed."

Ireland's deputy prime minister and foreign minister, Micheal Martin, said O'Hara was "not seriously hurt" but that the assault was "a gross violation of obligations to protect diplomats under the Vienna Convention."

"Aidan is an outstanding Irish and European diplomat who is serving the EU under the most difficult circumstances," Martin said. "We thank him for his service and call for an urgent cessation of violence in Sudan, and resumption of dialogue."

Fighting between the Sudanese army and a rival paramilitary faction has killed about 200 people and wounded 1,800 after three days of urban warfare.

The United Nations has called for an immediate ceasefire, and international bodies, including the European Union, have expressed grave concern.
For many people who have emigrated to the United States, helping their native countries is a big part of their lives. Recently a group of East Africans gathered to discuss ways to assist those back home. Abdulaziz Osman has the story, narrated by Salem Solomon. Videographer: Jafar Fidow
Russian President Vladimir Putin visits his troops in occupied Kherson, an American journalists appeal is denied in Russia and Turks go to the polls soon in an election that could change NATO. Plus, another close-up look at a Ukrainian battleground city and the people who call it home.
Foreign ministers from the Group of Seven nations condemned Russias war in Ukraine and highlighted the need to engage with China to address global challenges as they closed their meetings in Japan on Tuesday.

While noting the importance of working with China on issues such as climate change and global health security, the ministers expressed concerns in a joint communique about Chinas actions in the East and South China Seas and its stance toward Taiwan.

We reaffirm the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait as an indispensable element in security and prosperity in the international community, and call for the peaceful resolution of cross-Strait issues, the ministers said.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in the talks with his counterparts from Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and Japan there was remarkable convergence regarding concerns about China and what is being done to address those concerns.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin told reporters that the G-7 communique grossly interfered with Chinas internal affairs and maliciously slandered the country.

Blinken told reporters that regarding stalled U.S.-China discussions, the United States believes that having lines of communication, being able to engage across the broad rand of issues that animate the relationship is important.

My expectation would be that we will be able to move forward on that, but it does require China to make clear its own intentions in doing that, Blinken said.

The G-7 ministers said in their communique they are committed to intensifying sanctions against Russia, while also coordinating to make sure Russia and others do not evade those measures. They also warned Russia against the use of nuclear or chemical weapons and condemned Russias occupation of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant.

Russia must withdraw all forces and equipment from Ukraine immediately and unconditionally, the ministers said. We recommitted today to supporting Ukraine for as long as it takes and to providing sustained security, economic, and institutional support to help Ukraine defend itself, secure its free and democratic future, and deter future Russian aggression.

Blinken said G-7 members will remind the world who is the aggressor and who is the victim in the conflict that Russia started with its full-scale invasion of Ukraine last year. He also said Russia is breaking its promises by blocking Ukraines grain exports from reaching areas of the world where they are badly needed.

Regarding Iran, the G-7 ministers expressed concern about what they called Irans continued destabilizing activities, and called on Iran to stop supplying drones to Russian forces who have been using them to carry out attacks in Ukraine.

We remain deeply concerned about Irans unabated escalation of its nuclear program, which has no credible civilian justification and brings it dangerously close to actual weapon-related activities, the ministers said as they called on Iran to fulfill its nuclear non-proliferation commitments.

The G-7 ministers also said they have concerns about Afghanistan and the countrys Talban leaders, saying they condemn the Talibans systematic abuses of human rights of women and girls and discrimination against the members of religious and ethnic minorities.

Some information for this report came from The Associated Press.
Allied Market Research

The global central lab market is experiencing growth due to increasing investments in research and development, clinical trials, and the demand for innovative treatments for various diseases.

Portland, OR, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled,  Central Lab Market by Services (Genetic Services, Biomarker Services, Anatomic Pathology and Histology, Specimen Management &Storage, and Others), and by End User (Pharmaceutical Companies, Biotechnology Companies and Others): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 20222031. According to the report, the global central lab industry generated $3.31 billion in 2021 and is anticipated to generate $5.95 billion by 2031, witnessing a CAGR of 6.0% from 2022 to 2031.

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Prime determinants of growth

The global central lab market is experiencing growth due to increasing investments in research and development, clinical trials, and the demand for innovative treatments for various diseases. Additionally, outsourcing of central labs is gaining popularity as it improves efficiency, reduces costs, and provides access to specialized expertise and technology. However, logistical and sample-handling issues are limiting the market growth. Nevertheless, emerging markets present significant growth opportunities for the central lab market in the foreseeable future.

Report coverage & details:

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 20222031 Base Year 2021 Market Size in 2021 $3.31 billion Market Size in 2031 $5.95 billion CAGR 6% No. of Pages in Report 220 Segments covered Services, End User, and Region. Drivers Rising investments in R&D and clinical trials



The surge in the outsourcing of central labs



Increase in demand for novel drugs Opportunities Growth opportunities in emerging markets Restraints Issues with logistics and sample handling

Impact of COVID-19 on Central Lab Market-

The central lab market encountered various challenges during the pandemic, including supply chain disruptions and delayed clinical trials. The management of research activities and clinical trials was also impacted by travel restrictions, social distancing measures, and other pandemic-related obstacles.

Despite these challenges, central labs were able to contribute to the pandemic response by providing diagnostic testing for COVID-19 and supporting the development of potential treatments and vaccines. As a result, the pandemic also presented opportunities for central labs in terms of vaccine manufacturing and development.





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The biomarker services segment to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period

Based on services, the biomarker services segment held the largest share in 2021, accounting for more than two-fifths of the global central lab market revenue, and is projected to manifest the highest CAGR of 6.4% during the forecast period, owing to the increasing use of biomarkers in drug development & clinical research.

The pharmaceutical companies segment to maintain its lead position during the forecast period

Based on end user, the pharmaceutical companies segment accounted for the largest share in 2021, contributing to more than two-fifths of the global central lab market revenue, and is expected to portray the fastest CAGR of 6.4% during the forecast period, due to rise in the number of clinical trials for new drugs, increase in investments in R&D activities, and surge in the prevalence of chronic diseases.

North America to maintain its dominance by 2031

Based on region, North America held the highest market share in terms of revenue in 2021, generating nearly two-fifths of the global central lab market revenue, owing to strong presence of key players along with the availability of advanced technologies and rise in government initiatives promoting research activities for the development of novel drugs.

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Asia-Pacific region is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 6.6% from 2022 to 2031, and is likely to dominate the market during the forecast period, owing to an increase in the number of clinical studies, rising number of central labs services provider companies, increasing investments in pharmaceutical R&D activities, and favorable regulatory guidelines for clinical trials in the region.

Leading Market Players: -

Eurofins Scientific

ICON Plc

Medpace

Rochester Regional Health (ACM Global Laboratories)

IQVIA Inc. (Q2 Solutions)

LabConnect

Cerba Healthcare (Cerba Research)

Frontage Labs

CIRION BioPharma Research Inc.

Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings

The report provides a detailed analysis of these key players in the global central lab market. These players have adopted different strategies such as acquisition, expansion, and agreements, to increase their market share and maintain dominant shares in different regions. The report is valuable in highlighting business performance, operating segments, product portfolio, and strategic moves of market players to showcase the competitive scenario.



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The Group of Seven has strongly denounced the ongoing fighting in Sudan between two military factions, urging all parties to end hostilities immediately without pre-conditions.

Tuesday, G-7 foreign ministers released a joint communique after meeting two and half days in Karuizawa, Japan.

We strongly condemn the ongoing fighting between the Sudan Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which threatens the security and safety of Sudanese civilians and undermines efforts to restore Sudans democratic transition, said the G-7 joint statement.

We call on all actors to renounce violence, return to negotiations, and take active steps to reduce tensions and ensure the safety of all civilians, including diplomatic and humanitarian personnel.

The joint statement came amid reports that an armored US embassy vehicle was targeted by forces associated with the RSF fighters during the surge of violence in Khartoum. Monday, the European Union said its envoy to Sudan was assaulted in his own residence.

I can confirm that yesterday, we had an American diplomatic convoy that was fired on. All of our people are safe and unharmed. But this action was reckless. It was irresponsible. And of course, unsafe, Blinken told VOA during a news conference upon the conclusion of G7 ministers meetings.

Tuesday, Blinken spoke separately with General Abdel Fattah al Burhan, commander of the Sudanese Armed Forces, and General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, commander of the Rapid Support Forces, urging them to agree to a 24-hour ceasefire to allow Sudanese to safely reunite with their families and to obtain desperately needed relief supplies.

Blinken said he made it very clear to both Burhan and Hemedti that any attacks, threats or dangers posed to our diplomats were totally unacceptable.

The White House has said there are no plans yet for a U.S. government evacuation.

Blinken also said Tuesday that the State Department will continue to take every responsible measure to make sure that our people are safe and secure, when asked by VOA if there is an evacuation plan given the latest development on the ground.

Both military factions fighting for control in Sudan's capital, Khartoum, claimed to have made gains, as the death toll from the violence exceeded 180 amid calls from Washington, multiple international bodies and capitals around the world for an immediate cease-fire.

In Washington, U.S. lawmakers also weighed in, condemning the fighting in Sudan between the army and paramilitary forces.

The Biden Administration must take immediate steps to sanction Generals Burhan and Hemedti, and other senior security officials, push the international community to do the same, said U.S. Senator Jim Risch, a Republican from Idaho who is ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

Ultimately, the only way to achieve peace and stability in Sudan is through meaningful political discussion and the return of a civilian-led transition that respects the rights and aspirations of the Sudanese people. Continued fighting risks dragging the country back into civil war and threatens the stability not only of Sudan, but the entire region, said Democratic Senator from Delaware Chris Coons in a statement.

Katherine Gypson contributed to this report.
A major defamation lawsuit against Fox News goes to trial Tuesday, carrying the potential to shed additional light on former President Donald Trump's election lies, reveal more about how the right-leaning network operates and even redefine libel law in the U.S. Here are some things to know about the case.

The case

Dominion Voting Systems is suing Fox for $1.6 billion, claiming the news outlet repeatedly aired allegations that the company's voting machines were rigged to doom Trump's 2020 reelection campaign while knowing they were untrue. Fox contends that it was reporting newsworthy charges made by supporters of the Republican then-president and is supported legally by libel standards. After a one-day delay that raised the possibility of a last-minute settlement between the litigants, seating of the jury is scheduled to start Tuesday, followed immediately by opening statements.

Election disconnect

Denver-based Dominion has produced evidence that prominent people at Fox didn't believe the fraud allegations, even as the network gave Trump's allies airtime to repeat them. Multiple staffers texted and emailed in disbelief as Trump latched onto increasingly tenuous claims of being robbed by voter fraud. Fox's Sean Hannity said in a deposition that he did not believe the fraud claims "for one second" but wanted to give accusers the chance to produce evidence. Fox founder Rupert Murdoch, questioned under oath, agreed the 2020 election, won by Democrat Joe Biden, was free and fair: "The election was not stolen," he said. Murdoch even wrote on Jan. 5, 2021, to a top executive urging that prominent Fox personalities issue a statement acknowledging Biden's legitimate win. At the same time, Murdoch acknowledged that Fox hosts such as Lou Dobbs and Jeanine Pirro at times endorsed false claims of election fraud.

Foxs fear

The court papers have laid out a profound concern at Fox over the impact of its election night call that Biden had beaten Trump in the battleground state of Arizona  a call that was accurate. Fox scooped its rivals on the call, but it infuriated Trump and many Fox viewers, who expressed their anger and began tuning in to rival conservative media outlets such as Newsmax. Emails and memos released in the case show Fox executives were highly aware of a drop-off in their network's viewership at the same time that Newsmax was gaining viewers, and the executives viewed that dynamic as a potential threat.

Libel law

In its defense, Fox has relied on a doctrine of libel law, in place since a 1964 U.S. Supreme Court ruling, that has made it difficult for some plaintiffs to prove defamation by news outlets. Public figures, and Dominion fits that standard in this case, have to prove not only that the information reported was incorrect but that the news organization acted with "reckless disregard" about whether it was true or not. Fox says Dominion can't prove its case, but some First Amendment advocates suggest the voting machine company has a strong argument. Their worry is that a prolonged legal battle would give the Supreme Court a chance to change libel laws that would weaken protection for all the media.

Judges ire

The runup to the trial has been rocky for Fox, and not just because the public got a look at such private chatter as primetime host Tucker Carlson saying he "passionately" hated Trump. The trial judge has scolded the network for 11th-hour disclosures about Murdoch's role at Fox News and about some evidence involving Fox Business host Maria Bartiromo, including recordings of her talking off-camera with Trump's lawyers. (Fox lawyers later apologized to the judge about the Murdoch matter, saying it was a misunderstanding not intended to deceive.) Fox, meanwhile, won some legal fights over limiting what jurors can hear, including a ruling that bars testimony about the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.

Trumps interest

Trump has taken a keen interest in the case, judging by his social media posts. Always concerned about loyalty, and nursing a grudge about the Arizona call, he has expressed anger at revelations in the case that many people at Fox not only did not support his fraud allegations but privately disdained them. Trump had stepped up his criticism of Fox as the 2024 Republican presidential primary gained steam, but he recently has given interviews to Carlson and Hannity.

The election

Federal and state election officials, exhaustive reviews in multiple battleground states where Trump challenged his loss, and Trump's attorney general found no widespread fraud that could have changed the outcome of the 2020 election. Nor did they uncover any credible evidence that the vote was tainted. Trump's allegations of fraud also have been roundly rejected by dozens of courts, including by judges he appointed.
A third day of fighting between Sudans military and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces raged Monday in the capital, with both sides claiming control of strategic sites. A doctors union says nearly 100 people have been killed in the clashes as calls for a cease-fire are growing.

The sounds of gunfire echoed across the Sudanese capital, Khartoum, and other towns Monday afternoon.

The military headquarters, Khartoum international airport and areas around the presidential palace are the current main battlefields between the military and the Rapid Support Forces.

The shooting affected the power supply and water systems in the capital, making life more difficult for those trapped indoors by the fighting and people wounded in the clashes.

In the Al-Kalakla neighborhood south of Khartoum, the situation seemed to be relatively calm, and people ventured out to get basic necessities.

Wisal Mohammed, a mother of three, says this is the first time in three days shes come out to get food for her children.

She says the situation is difficult, and we are stranded. There is no electricity and water, and we cannot be mobile if there is an emergency. We are approaching the festivity time, and people are just indoors.

The fighting started on Saturday morning, and Sudanese doctors say nearly 100 people have been killed and several others injured, including civilians during the past three days.

Hamid Babikir sells vegetables along the Jebel Aulia highway south of Khartoum. He told VOA that he is unable to order more stock from the central market due to the tense situation.

He says roads are blocked, and we cant risk going to get more vegetables. What I am selling today is left over from yesterday. Everybody keeps on complaining of the tense situation and an increase in prices because of a lack of fuel.

Al Muiz Hassan is a grocer in the Abu Adam neighborhood south of Khartoum. He says he is worried about robbery and has only partially opened his shop as a precaution.

He called on the warring parties to put the interest of the country and civilians as the first priority.

The fighting has affected all the shops, not only mine. I am not afraid of anything rather than losing lives," he said. "The two who are fighting are all Sudanese and are only following their orders. We hope that God will change their hearts.

The military said this afternoon that they had restored control over state-run TV and radio, which was taken over by the RSF yesterday.

The East African regional bloc IGAD has delegated the presidents of South Sudan, Kenya and Djibouti to talk with the Sudanese warring parties in an effort to halt the fighting.
Iran's president Tuesday reiterated threats against Israel while marking the country's annual Army Day. However, he refrained from criticizing Saudi Arabia as Tehran seeks a detente with the kingdom.

The comments by Ebrahim Raisi came as fighter jets and helicopters flew overhead in Tehran and as Iranian submarines sailed its waters during a ceremony carried live by state television.

The day celebrates Iran's regular military, not its paramilitary Revolutionary Guard, whose expeditionary forces operate across the wider Mideast and aid Iranian-allied militia groups like Lebanon's Hezbollah. The Guard also routinely has tense encounters with the U.S. Navy.

Speaking at the ceremony, Raisi threatened Israel, which is suspected of carrying out a series of attacks targeting Iran since the collapse of its nuclear deal with world powers.

"Enemies, particularly the Zionist regime, have received the message that any tiny action against (our) country will prompt a harsh answer from the armed forces, which will accompany the destruction of Haifa and Tel Aviv," Raisi said.

Raisi also reiterated a demand for the U.S. to leave the Mideast. American policy since the Carter administration has viewed protected the Persian Gulf region as crucial to securing global energy supplies. A fifth of the world's supply of oil passes through the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow mouth of the Persian Gulf.

While not specifically naming Saudi Arabia, Raisi did offer an olive branch in his remarks.

"The hand of our armed forces warmly shakes the hand of the regional nations that intend to create security in the region," the president said.

In March, Iran and Saudi Arabia agreed to reestablish diplomatic relations and reopen embassies after seven years of tensions, a diplomatic agreement reached in China. In the time since, Saudi Arabia also has been involved in a prisoner swap with Yemen's Iranian-backed Houthi rebels, with hopes such a deal could see an end to that country's yearslong proxy war.
A jury was seated Tuesday to hear a voting machine company's $1.6 billion defamation lawsuit against Fox News in a trial that will test First Amendment protections and expose the network's role in spreading the lie of a stolen 2020 presidential election.

Jury selection came a day after the judge granted a one-day delay that offered time to see if the two sides could work out a settlement.

Denver-based Dominion Voting Systems aims to hold Fox accountable for airing false allegations of election fraud that continue to roil U.S. politics.

Delaware Superior Court Judge Eric Davis gave no explanation for the brief delay. But he suggested the companies try to mediate their dispute, according to a person close to Fox who was not authorized to speak publicly about the lawsuit's status and spoke on the condition of anonymity.

The case will put under scrutiny the libel standard that has guided U.S. media outlets for nearly six decades, reveal behind-the-scenes activity at Fox News in the weeks after the 2020 election and shed light on the flow of misinformation that turned into a tidal wave after the election, which then-President Donald Trump lost to Joe Biden.

Fox News stars such as Tucker Carlson and Sean Hannity, as well as company founder Rupert Murdoch, are expected to testify during the six-week trial, but it's unclear whether any witnesses would be called Tuesday.

Dominion claims New York-based Fox News and its parent company, Fox Corp., essentially bulldozed the voting company's business and subjected employees to threats by falsely implicating it in a bogus conspiracy to rig the election against Trump.

In the weeks after Election Day, prominent Fox News hosts brought on Trump allies who falsely claimed that Dominion's machines were programmed to snatch votes away from the Republican incumbent and pad the Democratic challenger's total.

Many of Fox's hosts and executives didn't believe the claims but allowed them to be aired nevertheless.

"Fox spread and endorsed one of the most damaging lies in this country's history," Dominion's lawyers wrote in a court filing.

Pointing to communications among Fox figures, from executives to fact-checkers, Dominion argues that the network knowingly amplified falsehoods for the sake of ratings.

Fox says it simply reported on Trump's challenges to the election results and let viewers hear from his lawyers and allies.

"Dominion's lawsuit is a political crusade in search of a financial windfall, but the real cost would be cherished First Amendment rights," the network said in a statement last week.

Fox said its hosts sometimes alluded to a need for evidence to back up the allegations and noted that Dominion denied the claims.

Federal and state election officials, exhaustive reviews in battleground states and Trump's own attorney general found no widespread fraud that could have changed the election outcome. Nor did they turn up any credible evidence that the vote was tainted.

Dozens of courts, some with Trump-appointed judges, also rejected his fraud allegations. In the Dominion case, Davis declared it was "CRYSTAL clear" that the claims about the voting machine company weren't true.

A key question for the jury is whether Fox News acted with "actual malice," a legal standard that applies when public figures sue news outlets for defamation. The standard, derived from a 1964 Supreme Court case, means knowingly publishing or airing something false or operating with "reckless disregard" for whether it's true.

Dominion has pointed to text and email messages in which Fox insiders discounted and sometimes overtly mocked the vote manipulation claims. One Fox Corp. vice president called them "MIND BLOWINGLY NUTS."

Carlson, Fox News' biggest star, even expressed scorn for Trump, whose supporters formed the core of the network's viewers. Text exchanges revealed as part of the lawsuit show Carlson declaring, "I hate him passionately," and saying that "we are very, very close to being able to ignore Trump most nights."

Murdoch, the Fox News founder and Fox Corp. chairman, found the election claims "really crazy," according to an email he sent while watching a news conference that Trump lawyers gave on Nov. 19, 2020.

"Terrible stuff damaging everybody, I fear. Probably hurting us too," Murdoch told Fox News CEO Suzanne Scott in another email that day.

Yet talk of the alleged conspiracy continued to air on Fox for weeks after the voting.

In his deposition for the case, Murdoch acknowledged the 2020 presidential election was fair while also acknowledging that some of Fox's hosts seemed to endorse the bogus election claims.

The network maintains that Dominion cherry-picked from private messages and broadcast transcripts and depositions of various Fox players, while brushing past other comments and context more favorable to Fox. The network also maintains that Dominion's claims of lost business are massively inflated.

Fox found itself in hot water with the judge as the trial neared. Davis rapped the network last week for what he saw as "misrepresentations" and belated disclosures of some information in the case. On Friday, a Fox attorney apologized in a letter to the judge for what the attorney described as a misunderstanding about the disclosure of Murdoch's formal role at Fox News.
New developments:

U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland meets with the Ukrainian prosecutor general as they discuss efforts to punish those responsible for committing war crimes during Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Iraq offers to mediate between Ukraine and Russia to try and find an end to the war, but Ukraine's top diplomat rejects the offer.

An outspoken Kremlin critic is sentenced to 25 years in prison for denouncing Russia's war on Ukraine. Vladimir Kara-Murza regards the harsh sentence as recognition of his work.

European Union ambassadors in Brussels discussed on Monday a decision by some member states to temporarily ban imports of grain and other items from Ukraine.

Slovakia on Monday joined Poland and Hungary in announcing a ban on some food imports from Ukraine, with other central and eastern European countries saying they may follow suit.

The three countries argue a glut of low-priced agricultural imports is hurting their local farmers. Poland and Hungary on Saturday said their bans will remain in effect through June 30.

Spokespersons for the EU's executive arm said Monday a solution must be found that respects the EU legal framework, The Associated Press reported.

Chief EU commission spokesperson Eric Mamer was cited as saying Poland and other countries "have been doing their utmost" to help Ukraine. He added, "so this is not about sanctioning. This is about finding solutions based on EU law in the interests at the same time of the Ukrainians and of the EU."

Ukraine and Poland began talks Monday in Warsaw aimed at reaching an agreement on the grain issue.

"Ukraine needs help, but the costs of this help should be spread over all European countries, not just the frontline countries, especially Poland," Polish agriculture minister Robert Telus said after the talks began.

The issue of the imported food has created problems for Poland's ruling nationalist Law and Justice party. Poland holds elections later this year and counts on rural areas for a large amount of support.

The discussions among EU officials will continue Tuesday as Kyiv tries to renegotiate food and grain transit via Poland.

The bans also come as Russia warns it may not extend a Black Sea grain deal set to expire May 18, stranding millions of tons of grain inside Ukraine. Ukraine is a major agricultural producer that relies on food sales for much of its gross domestic product.

Lavrov in Brazil

Separately, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said Monday that Moscow wants a quick end to the conflict in Ukraine.

At a news conference with Brazilian counterpart Mauro Vieira in Brasilia, Lavrov thanked his counterpart for "understanding of the genesis of the situation in Ukraine." He added that Russia had "an interest" in the conflict ending as soon as possible.

Russia has reiterated that any peace negotiation in Ukraine must acknowledge the "realities" of Russia's unilateral annexation of four Ukrainian provinces.

Russia says it was forced to intervene in Ukraine to defend Russian speakers from persecution and prevent the West from using Ukraine as a springboard to threaten Russia's security.

Kyiv and the West say these are baseless pretexts for a war of conquest where war crimes have been committed.

The White House sharply criticized Brazil for meeting with Lavrov in person, while only speaking to Ukrainian officials by phone.

National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said, "Brazil is parroting Russian and Chinese propaganda" on Ukraine without looking at the facts.

Brazils foreign minister, Mauro Vieira, pushed back on the criticism, saying of Kirby, "I don't know how or why he reached that conclusion but I do not agree at all."

Separately, U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland met with Ukrainian Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin at the Department of Justice in Washington to discuss joint efforts to punish war criminals in Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

G-7 Russian sanctions

Foreign ministers from the Group of Seven leading industrialized nations Monday reinforced their commitment to strongly supporting Ukraine, while also "intensifying, fully coordinating and enforcing sanctions against Russia."

At a meeting in Japan, the G-7 ministers "underscored that Russia must withdraw all forces and equipment from Ukraine immediately and unconditionally," according to a statement issued by Japan's foreign ministry.

Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi said at a meeting focused on Russia's war in Ukraine that it is important to maintain unity in enforcing sanctions against Russia.

Following Russian President Vladimir Putin's announcement last month that Moscow would deploy tactical nuclear weapons to Belarus, the G-7 ministers condemned the move Monday, reaffirming that "Russia's irresponsible nuclear rhetoric is unacceptable," the statement said.

Russia was once part of what was then the G-8 but was expelled after it annexed Ukraine's Crimean Peninsula in 2014.

Land mine threats

Britain's Defense Ministry on Monday highlighted the mounting number of civilian land mine-related deaths in Ukraine.

The British ministry said the problem is worst in areas that Russian troops previously occupied, including Kherson and Kharkiv, and that the risk increases with the arrival of springtime agricultural work.

"Over 750 mine-related casualties among civilians have been reported since the start of the invasion  one in eight has involved a child. It will likely take at least a decade to clear Ukraine of mines," the ministry said in its latest daily assessment.

Meanwhile, Russia sentenced a prominent opposition activist to 25 years in prison Monday on charges that included treason after he criticized Russia's war in Ukraine.

Vladimir Kara-Murza's sentencing is the latest in a crackdown against the opposition that has taken place in Russia since Putin launched the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Kara-Murza's sentence was the harshest handed down to a Kremlin critic since Putin came to power in 1999.

Some material in this report came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters.
New developments:

Foreign ministers from the Group of Seven leading industrialized nations issued a joint statement calling Russias invasion of Ukraine a serious violation of international law and demanding Russia immediately withdraw its troops without conditions.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited troops on Tuesday in the small eastern city of Avdiivka, a day after the Kremlin said Russian President Vladimir Putin met with his military leaders and troops in territories occupied by Moscows forces.

Russian forces used aircraft to unleash fresh assaults on Ukrainian positions in the eastern Donetsk region, the Ukrainian military said on Tuesday, RFE/RL reported.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited troops on Tuesday in the small eastern city of Avdiivka, a day after the Kremlin said Russian President Vladimir Putin met with his military leaders and troops in territories occupied by Moscows forces.

Zelenskyys office said he was briefed by commanders on the battlefield situation. A video showed him addressing troops in combat gear and handing them awards in what appeared to be a large industrial warehouse with sandbags packed against at least one of the high walls.

"I have the honor to be here today, to thank you for your service, for defending our land, Ukraine, our families," he said.

Zelenskyy was also shown visiting a hospital where he inspected facilities, met wounded soldiers and handed out more awards.

Russia has targeted Avdiivka during its winter offensive but has made only small territorial advances in the east. The video footage released by Zelenskyys office also showed heavily damaged high-rise residential buildings in the city, where Ukrainian officials say about 1,800 civilians remain.

Andriy Yermak, the head of Zelenskyys office, said Ukrainian troops were successfully repelling Russian attempts to encircle the city. "Our army has already broken the enemy's plans to break through the [Ukrainian] defenses and advance in the east," Yermak said on the Telegram messaging app.

The Kremlin said Tuesday that Putin visited Moscows forces on Monday, in Russian-occupied parts of the Kherson and Luhansk regions of Ukraine, two provinces that Putin claimed to annex last September. News organizations could not independently confirm his trip to Ukraine and the Kremlin did not announce it until he had left and returned to Russia. It was reportedly Putins second trip to occupied Ukraine in two months.

A video released by the Kremlin and broadcast by Russian state television showed Putin arriving by helicopter at the command post for Russian forces in the southern Kherson region and afterward flying to the headquarters of the Russian National Guard of the eastern Luhansk region.

Dressed in a dark suit, Putin appeared to be heading meetings with his top military brass. The locations of the military headquarters in the Kherson and Luhansk regions werent disclosed, so it wasnt possible to assess how close they are to the front line.

His trips to the military headquarters come as Ukraine says it is preparing for a new counteroffensive to reclaim the occupied territories.

Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak, in an apparent reference to Putins visit, tweeted Tuesday about the Russian leader touring the occupied and ruined territories to enjoy the crimes of his minions for the last time.

Also Tuesday, foreign ministers from the Group of Seven leading industrialized nations issued a joint statement calling Russias invasion of Ukraine a serious violation of international law and demanding Russia immediately withdraw its troops without conditions. The G-7 ministers also pledged to keep Russian assets in their jurisdictions frozen until there is a resolution of the conflict that addresses Russias violation of Ukraines sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Ukrainian grain

Monday European Union ambassadors in Brussels discussed a decision by some member states to temporarily ban imports of grain and other items from Ukraine.

Slovakia on Monday joined Poland and Hungary in announcing a ban on some food imports from Ukraine, with other central and eastern European countries saying they may follow suit.

The three countries argue a glut of low-priced agricultural imports is hurting their local farmers. Poland and Hungary on Saturday said their bans will remain in effect through June 30.

Spokespersons for the EU's executive arm said Monday a solution must be found that respects the EU legal framework, The Associated Press reported.

Lavrov in Brazil

Separately, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said Monday that Moscow wants a quick end to the conflict in Ukraine.

At a news conference with Brazilian counterpart Mauro Vieira in Brasilia, Lavrov thanked his counterpart for "understanding of the genesis of the situation in Ukraine." He added that Russia had "an interest" in the conflict ending as soon as possible.

Russia has reiterated that any peace negotiation in Ukraine must acknowledge the "realities" of Russia's unilateral annexation of four Ukrainian provinces.

Russia says it was forced to intervene in Ukraine to defend Russian speakers from persecution and prevent the West from using Ukraine as a springboard to threaten Russia's security.

Kyiv and the West say these are baseless pretexts for a war of conquest where war crimes have been committed.

The White House sharply criticized Brazil for meeting with Lavrov in person, while only speaking to Ukrainian officials by phone.

National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said, "Brazil is parroting Russian and Chinese propaganda" on Ukraine without looking at the facts.

Brazils foreign minister pushed back on the criticism, saying of Kirby, "I don't know how or why he reached that conclusion but I do not agree at all."

Some material in this report came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters.
Mozambique has asked the World Health Organization to supply an additional 2 million doses of a cholera vaccine as the country struggles to control a spreading outbreak.

The head of the Department of National Health Surveillance at the Ministry of Health, Domingos Guihole, told VOA that the government awaits the WHO's response to the cholera vaccine request, admitting difficulties due to the high global demand for vaccines.



"At this moment in Mozambique, the cholera situation is not good," Guihole said. "It is not good because we have 10 provinces affected by cholera. We have 53 districts in the whole country, 45 of which have active cholera disease."

The official said the intent is to vaccinate the population in high-risk areas, such as the northern province of Nampula and Zambezia in the central part of the country.



Both provinces were hit hard by Cyclone Freddy, which tore across Mozambique twice inside two weeks last month.



All five provinces impacted by Freddy on its first and second passes have witnessed cholera outbreaks.



In addition to the risk of cholera, the government is concerned about a potential increase in cases of other waterborne diseases such as dysentery. Malaria is a concern, too; both are among the leading causes of mortality in Mozambique.



"During almost seven months from October to April 16, we have notified 27,000 cases of cholera with 124 deaths, so the situation is not good," said Guihole. "We have to say to all Mozambicans that we must follow the recommendations from the Ministry of Health related to the hygiene of water, hygiene of food, and even the collective hygiene as well."

In many parts of Mozambique, health workers are struggling to treat infected citizens at clinics and hospitals that were badly damaged by Cyclone Freddy.



The record-breaking storm, which lasted for several weeks, killed dozens of people in Mozambique and Malawi and destroyed many roads and bridges in addition to hospitals.
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An Islamic center in Minnesota held an interfaith Ramadan meal to celebrate the holy month and build bridges between people of different faiths. Mohamud Mascadde reports from Minneapolis in this story narrated by Salem Solomon.
Like most Facebook users, I am targeted by advertisements relating to my interests, particularly Native American.

So, when an ad popped up recently advertising a Navajo Tufa Cast Corn Stalk Design Bracelet cast from 55 grams of sterling silver, it got my attention, especially because its price was an implausible $6.48.

Because of Black Friday, we produced  a lot of items, but we cant sell them all  now we need to pay suppliers a lot of money, is how the Cuterise website explained the low price.

The Scam Detector website rated Cuterise Risky. Dubious. Perilous. But curiosity got the best of me, so I accepted the risk and ordered the bracelet. While waiting for it to ship  if anything shipped at all  I decided to learn everything I could about it.

Tufa casting involves pouring molten silver into a mold carved out of soft volcanic stone found in New Mexico and Arizona. The Navajo have been using it to make jewelry since the mid-1800s.

Tufa is fragile and can crumble after a single casting. For this reason, artists often make a master using molten lead instead of silver that can be used to mold and cast multiple copies.

Genealogy of a bracelet

An image search on Google Lens turned up several matching bracelets, ranging in price from $300 to $900, but none were hallmarked by the maker.

I found the identical bracelet on the eBay auction site, which named the maker: Navajo Nation artist Eugene Mitchell. I tracked down his son Reggie Mitchell and sent him the photo of the bracelet Id ordered. He confirmed that his father made that design in the 1970s.

Our family has been making jewelry for a long time, he said. Im the fifth generation, and my oldest son Bronson is the sixth.

And for six generations, he added, his family has helped make Gallup, New Mexico, arts and crafts dealers rich.

Back in the 70s, the FBI investigated Gallup because more 100-dollar bills were circulating there than in all of Las Vegas, he said. Gallup produced over 200 millionaires in that seven- to 10-year time period, and the source was Native American jewelry.

I couldnt find any data to confirm this, so I reached out to the Gallup McKinley County Chamber of Commerce.

While the story has circulated in and around our community for years, it is more urban legend than truth, Chamber of Commerce CEO Bill Lee responded via email. What I will tell you is that even in today's world of credit/debit cards, Gallup merchants still deal with very high volumes of cash.

Reggie Mitchell remembers going with his father to Gallup, where he says a dealer would always try to lowball the value of his work.

If it was two pieces of jewelry, they would give him money to make two more pieces and buy two meals, he said. And if they paid him, say, $100 for one piece, theyd turn around and sell it for six, seven, $800.

It was on one of those trips to Gallup that Eugene Mitchell was robbed.

My dad used to keep his lead masters in old coffee cans, Mitchell said. One day, he came out of a shop and discovered someone had broken his car window and taken the cans.

Mitchell isnt sure whether the master for the cornstalk bracelet was among the items stolen that day. He says his father found out later that New Mexico galleries were making rubber molds of the designs and selling copies on the cheap.

And my dad would see them and say, That's my work, thats my piece!

After that, the elder Mitchell cut out the middleman, and today, the family sells directly to their customers.

Bait and switch

I was surprised when Cuterise emailed me delivery tracking information. My order originated in Dongguan, China, a city dubbed the worlds factory and was now in transit to the U.S.

Clearly, I was going to receive something for my $6.48. But what? A plastic bracelet?

Ten days later, my order arrived. The package was flat and squishy. I tore it open and almost laughed. Theyd sent me a pair of cheap stretch leggings printed to look like blue jeans  buttons, rivets and all.

My amusement faded as I thought about everything Reggie Mitchell told me. The family may not be using middlemen anymore, but Eugene Mitchell is still being exploited  this time by fraudsters halfway around the globe using photographs of a bracelet he made  and lost  50 years ago.
(Bloomberg) -- Chinas energy and commodities output roared ahead in March as producers rushed to feed a revival in economic activity.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The increases, which included records for a single months data for coal mining, natural gas output and oil refining, broadly tally with a robust set of import figures last week. But its clear that for many markets the additional supply is running ahead of actual consumption in whats proving to be an uneven recovery. Underpinning the gains was a surge in power demand as electricity generation climbed 5.1% on year, according to the statistics bureau on Tuesday.

Chinas reopening after the constraints of Covid Zero saw the economy grow 4.5% in the first quarter, handily beating expectations but short of Beijings 5% annual target. Property investment continued to contract, a warning sign given the sectors importance to commodities markets. Retail sales in March shot higher while industrial production missed expectations.

The steel market in particular is heavily keyed to indications of building activity, especially ahead of the busy season for construction in the second quarter. Output in March rose 6.9% on year to 95.7 million tons, near a two-year high, although this is one of the markets where demand has so far disappointed.

Oil processing rose 8.8% to 63.3 million tons, an all-time high for a single months data, as refiners lifted runs to feed post-Covid transport demand, although a recent pullback in diesel consumption tied to trucking is another indicator of Chinas patchy recovery.

Chinas focus on energy security also saw coal miners raise output to record levels despite some short-lived disruptions from deadly accidents. Production increased 4.3% to 417 million tons. Natural gas output rose 4% to 20.5 billion cubic meters, a record for a single month, but a bit weaker than the daily average recorded in January-Februarys combined figures when temperatures were colder. Crude oil drilling, meanwhile, topped 18 million tons for the first time since 2015.

Story continues

Aluminum output rose 3% as smelters resumed production in southern provinces after local power shortages eased.

The Weeks Diary

Tuesday, April 18

China industrial output for March, including steel & aluminum; coal, gas & power generation; and crude oil & refining. 10:00 Retail sales, fixed assets investment, property investment, residential property sales, and jobless rate for March 1Q GDP 1Q pork output and inventory levels

Farm ministry briefing in Beijing on promoting best crop varieties, 10:00

Chinas 2nd batch of March trade data, incl. agricultural imports; LNG & pipeline gas imports; oil products trade breakdown; alumina, copper and rare-earth product exports; bauxite, steel & aluminum product imports

Shanghai auto show, runs through April 27

SMM Intl Aluminum Summit in Zhengzhou, Henan. Day 1

Wednesday, April 19

CCTDs weekly online briefing on Chinas coal market

Shanghai auto show, runs through April 27

SMM Intl Aluminum Summit in Zhengzhou, Henan. Day 2

Thursday, April 20

China sets monthly loan prime rates, 09:15

China March output data for base metals and oil products

Chinas 3rd batch of March trade data, including country breakdowns for energy and commodities

Fenwei hosts intl thermal coal summit in Qinhuangdao

Shanghai auto show, runs through April 27

SMM Intl Aluminum Summit in Zhengzhou, Henan. Day 3

EARNINGS: CATL, Shougang

Friday, April 21

China weekly iron ore port stockpiles

Shanghai exchange weekly commodities inventory, ~15:30

Shanghai auto show, runs through April 27

SMM Intl Aluminum Summit in Zhengzhou, Henan. Day 4

Saturday, April 22

Shanghai auto show, runs through April 27

Sunday April 23

Shanghai auto show, runs through April 27

EARNINGS: Jiangsu Shagang

On the Wire

Iron ore rose as stronger-than-expected Chinese economic growth aided sentiment and the nations peak construction season continued to eat into inventories.

--With assistance from Sarah Chen, Winnie Zhu, Liz Yee Xing Ng and Kathy Chen.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt is calling for the resignation of four state officials after a local newspaper released a secret audio recording in which they appeared to discuss killing journalists and lynching Black people.

I am both appalled and disheartened to hear of the horrid comments made by officials in McCurtain County, Stitt said in a statement. There is no place for such hateful rhetoric in the state of Oklahoma, especially by those that serve to represent the community through their respective office.

Stitt has called for the immediate resignation of McCurtain County Sheriff Kevin Clardy, District 2 Commissioner Mark Jennings, Investigator Alicia Manning and Jail Administrator Larry Hendrix.

The recording was first detailed by the McCurtain Gazette-News after its publisher left a voice-activated recorder inside the room after a March 6 county commissioners meeting.

The journalist was cited in reports saying he did this because he believed the group was continuing to conduct county business after the meeting had ended, which is a violation of the states Open Meeting Act.

In the recording, the officials appear to discuss killing journalists and complain about no longer being able to lynch Black people.

I know where two big deep holes are here if you ever need them, Jennings said. Ive known two or three hit men. Theyre very quiet guys, Jennings later said in the conversation. And would cut no [expletive] mercy.

VOA could not independently verify the authenticity of the recording.

The McCurtain County sheriff department told VOA it had no comment.

In the recording, Jennings also appears to complain about not being able to hang Black people, saying, They got more rights than we got.

It's frightening any time we see those kinds of comments come to light. At the same time, this is just an occasion where they've come to light. I don't think it's the only time they occur, said Ted Streuli, executive director of the investigative journalism nonprofit Oklahoma Watch. "It's critical, in this situation and others, that the perpetrators be held to account."

Oklahoma Citys KFOR-TV, Channel 4 reported that about 100 McCurtain County residents gathered outside the county commissioners office Monday morning to protest the officials comments.

At a March 6 commissioners meeting, Bruce Willingham, the publisher of the McCurtain Gazette-News, secretly recorded the officials allegedly discussing the killing and burying of reporters, including his son, Chris Willingham.

Earlier this year, Chris Willingham filed a defamation claim against the county and has written multiple stories examining the sheriffs departments conduct, according to an article published last weekend in the McCurtain Gazette-News.

Joey Senat, a journalism professor at Oklahoma State University, told the AP the recording would be legal under the states law if it were obtained in a place where the officials being recorded did not have a reasonable expectation of privacy.

I talked on two different occasions to our attorneys to make sure I wasn't doing anything illegal, Bruce Willingham said.

The publisher told AP he believes the local officials were upset about critical stories the newspaper had recently published, including about the death of Bobby Barrick, an Oklahoma man who died at a hospital in March 2022 after McCurtain County deputies shot him with a stun gun.

The newspaper has filed a lawsuit against the sheriffs office seeking body camera footage and other records related to Barricks death.

Mark Thomas, executive vice president of the Oklahoma Press Association, told The Journal Record, a daily Oklahoma newspaper, that these threats underscore how dangerous journalism can be.

These are serious things that should not be ignored, Thomas told The Journal Record. Speaking truth to power has always been dangerous, and you have to always be prepared.

This conversation comes amid an unusually deadly period for reporters in the United States.

Las Vegas investigative reporter Jeff German was stabbed to death outside his home last September. A former county official is on trial, accused of the killing of German in retaliation for critical coverage. And in February this year, Dylan Lyons, a journalist for Floridas Spectrum News 13 station, was shot dead while on assignment.

The U.S. Press Freedom Tracker  a database of press freedom incidents in the United States  also has recorded more than 40 chilling statements made against journalists and news outlets since it started in 2017, including from state officials.

"It's incredibly disturbing to hear public officials fantasize about killing journalists, not to mention all the other abhorrent remarks they made, the Freedom of the Press Foundation's advocacy director, Seth Stern, told VOA. Although their comments are extreme, they raise questions about how many other public officials across the United States hold similar contempt for the press and how those sentiments influence their actions and policies.



The New York-based Committee to Protect Journalists has said it is disgusted and disturbed by the audio recordings.

It is encouraging that authorities are looking into these recordings, and we hope their investigations are swift and transparent. Journalists should never face death threats over their work, CPJs U.S. program coordinator, Katherine Jacobsen, said in a statement.

To Streuli, the implications of this incident extend beyond McCurtain County.

The thing that bothers me the most about it is the press is the only industry protected by the Constitution, Streuli said. And when we see something like this, where we have employees of our government, who are sworn to uphold the Constitution, revealing such hatred toward the press for doing their jobs, I think what's frightening about that goes well beyond the individual reporters involved.

Some information in this report came from the AP.
The U.S. Department of Defense said Monday that it would have findings within 45 days from its review about the recent leak of classified documents, as it presses to quickly evaluate how the breach took place.

"We're here to pull the facts, and that's what this review will do," Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh told reporters Monday.

She said the department continues to work around the clock to better understand the scope and scale of these leaks."

When asked if there could still be more documents circulating online, Singh said, There could be  we are still assessing that.

She said the Defense Department had already taken action to limit the number of employees with access to classified information.



"We are culling through some of our distribution lists and who has access to certain information," Singh said, adding, "I can't give you exact numbers."

Last week, U.S. authorities charged Air National Guardsman Jack Teixeira, 21, of leaking the trove of highly classified documents online.

The documents, which were circulating on various social media sites for weeks, included sensitive information about Russias war in Ukraine as well as information about U.S. allies, including Israel, Turkey and South Korea.

National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby told reporters at the White House on Monday that the United States has not detected a breach of trust between Washington and its allies as a result of the information disclosed by the leaks.

Teixeira possessed a top-secret security clearance for his job as an IT specialist with the Air National Guard in the northeastern U.S. state of Massachusetts, according to a court affidavit released last week. Teixerias unit  the 102nd Intelligence Wing of the Massachusetts National Guard  was responsible for providing intelligence support to many units of the military.

U.S. media have reported that Teixeira allegedly shared classified documents with a group of young men who chatted regularly on Discord, a social media platform popular with gamers. The Washington Post reported that Teixeira first wrote down the classified information to share with the group, but when some members were not taking the documents seriously, he began taking photos of the material and posting them in the group.

Teixeira faces two criminal charges: unauthorized retention and transmission of national defense information, and unauthorized removal and retention of classified documents. The first charge falls under the Espionage Act, a statute that the Justice Department has relied on to prosecute leaks of classified information.

If convicted of the charges, Teixeria faces up to 15 years in prison.

Jeff Seldin contributed to this report. Some information in this report came from Reuters.
United Nations and international aid agencies say it is almost impossible to provide humanitarian services in and around the Sudanese capital, Khartoum, because it is too dangerous for staff to move around without assurances of safety from the warring parties.

There are calls from various organizations and people trapped asking for evacuations, said Farid Aiywar, head of delegation in Sudan for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.

Speaking on a video link from the Kenyan capital, Nairobi, he said, For the past four days, people have been out of water, food, and electricity has been rationed in some places or been totally disconnected.

So, we are talking about a situation where there have been calls to the Sudanese Red Crescent and also to the international Red Cross movement present in Sudan, almost on a daily basis from people wanting basic humanitarian services.

He said this will not be possible until there are assurances of safety for volunteers. We have thousands of volunteers who are ready, able and trained to perform humanitarian services. Unfortunately, due to the current situation, they are not able to move.

Nevertheless, he said the Sudanese Red Crescent has been able to mobilize 246 volunteers from its Khartoum branch to support medical staff in hospitals, adding that This is very minimum compared to the total ability we are able to mobilize, which is almost 40,000 at one go from the countrys 18 branches.

In the four days since fighting broke out in Khartoum between the Sudanese army and Sudans paramilitary Rapid Support Forces at least 185 people reportedly have been killed and 1,800 wounded.

While much of the fighting is concentrated in the heavily populated parts of the capital, it has expanded into residential areas of cities throughout the country.

Volker Turk, U.N. high commissioner for human rights, who is calling for an immediate cessation to hostilities, warns the widespread use of air strikes, artillery shelling and explosive weapons in civilian areas is exposing the population to the risk of death and injury.

Both parties must remind their fighters of their obligations under international law to ensure the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure such as schools and hospitals, and they must ensure that these obligations are respected.

The high commissioner chastised the warring parties, noting that, The fighting is born out of power games and personal interests that only serve to alienate the democratic aspirations of the population.

Do those responsible not understand that the civilian population now only craves a peaceful life?

The biggest losers from this latest setback are the civilians who are likely to remain without essential aid for the foreseeable future. The World Health Organization says that many of the nine hospitals in Khartoum that are receiving injured civilians are reporting shortages of everything, including blood, transfusion equipment, intravenous fluids, medical supplies, and other lifesaving commodities.

Margaret Harris, WHO spokeswoman, said movement is severely restricted because of the dangerous security situation and that is making it so difficult for staff to get to the hospitals, adding that, We have seen serious attacks on healthcare.

She said the WHO has documented three attacks, though We know of many more. At least three people have been killed and two injured but those are only the first that have been verified.

She condemned the attacks on healthcare, noting that, they are a flagrant violation of humanitarian law and the right to health and they must stop now. It is absolutely critical for everybody concerned that those attacks stop.

Our staff currently, I understand are safe, she said, but it is also one of our crucial things, as for all our sister agencies, to protect their safety.
With Turkey and Hungary continuing to block Swedens application to join the NATO military alliance, the Swedish government hopes for a swift ratification soon by both countries after Turkish elections scheduled for May 14.

Sweden and Finland lodged a joint application to join NATO just weeks after Russias invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

The alliance welcomed Finland earlier this month  NATOs 31st member state - after Turkish and Hungarian lawmakers finally voted through the ratification in March. Swedens application has yet to be approved by the same two NATO members.

Anti-terror law

Ankara has accused Sweden of harboring what it considers pro-Kurdish terrorists, including members of the PKK militant group, which Sweden denies.

Swedens prime minister, Ulf Kristersson, said he hoped next months presidential elections in Turkey could mark a turning point.

Now we're waiting for the Turkish elections. I think everyone realizes that there is a substantial role in this, which is about Turkish domestic politics and that is fully understandable, thats how it is in most countries, Kristersson said at a press conference March 31.

Sweden is set to introduce a new anti-terrorism law, which it hopes will persuade Turkey to approve its NATO application. Speaking to reporters April 5, Turkeys foreign minister, Mevlut Cavusoglu, gave a measured response. Of course, they have taken some steps but they are not enough. We are expecting additional efforts in the coming period, he said.

NATO summit

NATOs secretary-general, Jens Stoltenberg, has said he hopes that Swedens application is ratified in time for the alliances annual summit, scheduled for July 11-12 in Lithuania.

Alper Coskun, of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and the former director general for international security affairs at the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, told VOA Turkish approval of Swedens application is not guaranteed.

It will depend more on whether in the aftermath of the elections - irrespective of who wins - the Turkish authorities will be able to say to themselves and to the public at large, that some of Turkey's expectations from Sweden have been met in terms of the implementation of that very law, he said.

I do not believe that it is necessarily in Turkey's interest after the election and post the implementation of that (anti-terror) law in Sweden, to prolong the matter. So I would assume that it is still a realistic expectation that Sweden will be able to join (NATO) by the summit in Vilnius.

Election campaign

Foreign policy comes second to domestic concerns in Turkeys election campaign  and that could benefit Swedens NATO application, Coskun added.

Especially now, in the aftermath of the earthquakes and the economic circumstances in Turkey, it has even decreased even more. In that sense, I don't think as far as the public opinion is concerned, or as far as the interest of the political parties in Turkey is concerned, its a leading topic, that there is attention on it. And I think that alleviates the domestic political pressure on the issue, which should facilitate a solution post-election.

Turkish opposition parties have rallied behind a single candidate, Kemal Klcdaroglu, in an effort to unseat incumbent President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Coskun believes an opposition win could benefit Sweden. They've made it clear that they will underline Turkey's place within NATO, within the Western security architecture, he said.

Hungary

Meanwhile, Hungarian lawmakers say they are blocking Swedens NATO bid over its recent criticism of their countrys democratic credentials, part of a long-running dispute over the rule of law between Budapest and its European allies.

Analysts say that Turkeys approval of Swedens bid would likely pressure Hungary to do the same, citing Budapests approval of Finlands NATO application, which came just days after Ankara had signaled it would ratify Helsinkis bid to join the alliance.

Hungarys foreign minister, Peter Szijjarto, told the Associated Press March 25 that his country deserves more respect. When Finnish and Swedish politicians question the democratic nature of our political system, that's really unacceptable As we give respect to all countries, we expect respect as well. And this respect was not really given, he said.

Szijjarto did not elaborate on whether Hungary would approve Swedens NATO application, if Turkey were to do so after the May 14 election.
The United Nations has lodged a formal complaint with the United States over reports that Washington spied on Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and other senior U.N. officials.



"We have now officially expressed to the host country our concern regarding the recent reports that the communications of the secretary-general and other senior U.N. officials have been the subject of surveillance and interference by the U.S. government, U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric told reporters Tuesday.

The reports related to Guterres and the U.N. emerged as part of a trove of highly classified U.S. documents that were leaked and circulated on social media sites for weeks. They included sensitive information about Russias war in Ukraine as well as information about U.S. allies, including Israel, Turkey and South Korea.

Dujarric said the U.N. sent a letter Monday evening via the U.S. Mission to the United Nations. He said no reply had been received by Tuesday afternoon.

We have made it clear that such actions are inconsistent with the obligations of the United States as enumerated in the Charter of the United Nations and the Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations," Dujarric said.

The U.S. government has not commented on the substance of the leaked documents. However, on April 13, Jack Teixeira, the Air National Guard member suspected of leaking the documents, was arrested in connection to the case. He faces two criminal charges: unauthorized retention and transmission of national defense information, and unauthorized removal and retention of classified documents.

The BBC first reported last week that Guterres may have been spied on, including his private conversations with Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed. The leaked documents also contained Washingtons concerns that Guterres was too accommodating to Moscow.

The U.N. chief has been working to keep alive a nine-month-old grain deal that allows Ukraine to export its food products through the Black Sea. Moscow has repeatedly complained that benefits it was supposed to receive in exchange have not materialized and is threatening to leave the deal. But Guterres has been very vocal from the start of Russia's invasion of Ukraine that it is a violation of the U.N. Charter and international law.

The secretary-general has been at his job for quite some time, Dujarric said on April 13 when asked about those reports. He's been in politics and a public figure for quite some time. So, he's not surprised, I think, by the fact that people are spying on him and listening on his private conversations. Unfortunately, either for various reasons, it allows such private conversations to be distorted and made public.

The latest report, published Monday by The Washington Post, recounts Guterres anger over a letter from Ethiopias foreign minister rejecting the U.N. chiefs plan to visit northern Ethiopias Tigray region during a February 2023 trip to Ethiopia to attend the African Union Summit. Guterres did visit Addis Ababa on the trip but did not go to northern Ethiopia.
The U.S. Justice Department on Tuesday indicted three Russian security agents and four Americans on charges of conducting "a multi-year foreign malign influence campaign in the United States" on behalf of the Russian government.

A federal grand jury in the southern city of Tampa, Florida, alleged that Russian Federal Security Service agents recruited, funded and directed U.S. political groups to act as unregistered Moscow agents to "sow discord and spread pro-Russian propaganda." The indictment, replacing an earlier one, alleged that the Russian intelligence agents covertly funded and oversaw the political campaigns for a local office in the U.S.

"Russia's foreign intelligence service allegedly weaponized our First Amendment rights  freedoms Russia denies its own citizens  to divide Americans and interfere in elections in the United States," Assistant Attorney General Matthew Olsen of the Justice Department's National Security Division, said in a statement.

The indictment alleges that a group called the Anti-Globalization Movement of Russia was founded by Moscow resident Aleksandr Viktorovich Ionov, one of the three Russians charged, and funded by the Russian government. The U.S. alleges that the Russian group carried out the malign influence campaign under the supervision of two others charged in the case, Federal Security Service agents Aleksey Borisovich Sukhodolov and Yegor Sergeyevich Popov.

The U.S. accused the three Russians of directing the campaign of an unnamed candidate for local office in St. Petersburg, Florida, in 2019 and referred to the political aspirant as the "candidate whom we supervise," but intended its work to extend to the 2020 U.S. presidential election.

Ionov allegedly recruited members of political groups within the United States, including the African People's Socialist Party and the Uhuru Movement in Florida.

The four indicted Americans  Omali Yeshitela, Penny Joanne Hess, Jesse Nevel and Augustus C. Romain Jr.  have residences in St. Petersburg, and according to the Justice Department, all had ties to the African People's Socialist Party and the Uhuru Movement.

The Justice Department said one focus of Ionov's alleged influence operation "was to create the appearance of American popular support for Russia's annexation of territories in Ukraine."
Plans by the Islamic State terror group to kidnap officials outside of the Middle East region and hold them for leverage triggered an early morning U.S. raid that led to the death of one of the plot's alleged masterminds.

U.S. Central Command on Monday confirmed the death of Abd-al-Hadi Mahmud al-Haji Ali during the operation in northern Syria, describing him as the official responsible for planning attacks in the Middle East and in Europe.

Confirmation of Ali's death came hours after a U.S. official, speaking to VOA on the condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the operation, said the senior leader's remains had been recovered and were undergoing DNA testing to confirm his identity.

Two armed fighters with Ali at the time of the raid were also killed, according to CENTCOM officials, who said no civilians were injured and that the U.S. forces involved in the operation emerged unscathed.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a London-based opposition war monitor, reported the U.S. raid took place before dawn in the village of Suwayda, near the town of Jarabulus, not far from the border with Turkey.

Sources told the group that U.S. forces arrived by helicopter in the pre-dawn hours, sparking violent clashes with the IS fighters that ended only after the U.S. launched two missiles at the building where the IS leader was hiding.

VOA has not been able to independently confirm the account.

"We know ISIS retains the desire to strike beyond the Middle East," CENTCOM spokesman Colonel Joe Buccino said in statement Monday, using another acronym for Islamic State. "This raid deals a significant blow to ISIS operations in the region but does not eliminate ISIS' capability to conduct operations."

Word of the alleged plotting to kidnap officials on foreign soil, and the U.S. raid to hamper such efforts, comes as most Western assessments of IS in Syria and Iraq, sometimes referred to as ISIS core, have downplayed the group's capabilities.

Just last month, a top U.S. homeland security official said an attack on the U.S. by IS was "almost inconceivable" due to the suppressive effect of counterterrorism operations by the U.S. and its partners.

And even if IS were to try to launch an attack, most officials have pointed to the group's Afghan affiliate, IS-Khorasan, as the more dangerous and capable threat.

IS-Khorasan "can do external operations against U.S. or Western interests abroad in under six months with little to no warning," CENTCOM General Michael Kurilla told lawmakers last month.

Additional intelligence shared by United Nations member states for a report earlier this year suggested IS in Syria and Iraq appears to be historically weak, down to as few as 2,500 fighters in areas once covered by its self-declared caliphate, a far cry from the tens of thousands of militants once thought to be at its beck and call.

But a second U.S. official who spoke to VOA on the condition of anonymity warned that IS core, under the stewardship of a new generation of leaders, has been undeterred.

Ali's death is a "big deal," the official said, "in terms of planning  expansion beyond the region."

"He was a key figure in these plans," he added.

And while the official said Ali will be likely replaced, his death is a clear setback.

"They lose experience. They lose capability every time we take one of these guys out," the official said.

At least 13 senior IS leaders in Syria and Iraq have been killed or captured since early 2022, including Khalid 'Aydd Ahmad al-Jabouri, responsible for planning attacks in Turkey and Europe, in a U.S. airstrike earlier this month.

Last week, CENTCOM also announced the capture of another IS official, Hudayfah al Yemeni, describing him as an "attack facilitator."
Fighting persisted in Sudan's capital Tuesday evening despite pledges by the military and a rival paramilitary group to observe a 24-hour cease-fire.

Witnesses reported hearing explosions and shooting in multiple parts of Khartoum after the declared 6 p.m. start of the cease-fire.

"The fighting remains underway," Atiya Abdulla Atiya of the Sudan Doctors' Syndicate told The Associated Press. "We are hearing constant gunfire."

Earlier, leaders of Sudan's warring parties publicly declared they would observe a cease-fire amid pressure from the United States, United Nations and African leaders to end four days of fighting that has forced many Khartoum residents to shelter in their homes.

The pledges came after U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke by phone to General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the commander of Sudan's armed forces, and General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, head of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, and urged them to halt the fighting, in part to permit delivery of humanitarian aid.

The U.S. State Department said Blinken urged Burhan and Dagalo to allow the international community in Khartoum "to make sure its presence is secure" and stressed the responsibility of the two generals "to ensure the safety and well-being of civilians, diplomatic personnel, and humanitarian workers."

Blinken's call to the two Sudanese rivals was one of many from the international community urging peace in the north African country. A communique issued Tuesday by foreign ministers from the Group of Seven leading industrialized nations as they met in Karuizawa, Japan condemned the fighting. The foreign ministers said the fighting "threatens the security and safety of Sudanese civilians and undermines efforts to restore Sudan's democratic transition."

"We urge the parties to end hostilities immediately without pre-conditions. We call on all actors to renounce violence, return to negotiations, and take active steps to reduce tensions and ensure the safety of all civilians, including diplomatic and humanitarian personnel," the communique also said.

Fighting between the Sudanese military and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces broke out Saturday, after months of rising tension over the countrys political future and plans to integrate the RSF into the national army.

The head of the World Health Organization said Tuesday that according to Sudanese authorities, 270 people have been killed in the fighting and more than 2,600 injured.

Fighting continued Tuesday around each side's bases and government buildings in Khartoum, and VOA reporter Michael Atit said a number of hospitals have been closed down because of damage or insecurity.

Large portions of the capital were without electricity and water. The violence also affected Khartoum's adjoining sister cities of Omdurman and Bahri, with bridges linking the cities blocked by armored vehicles.

The U.S. Embassy issued a fresh alert to American citizens in Sudan, strongly advising them to remain indoors and shelter in place. It said due to insecurity and the closure of the airport, there are no plans for a U.S. government-coordinated evacuation.

Calls for dialogue

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday again condemned the outbreak of fighting and appealed to the leaders of Sudan's military and the RSF paramilitary group "to immediately cease hostilities, restore calm and begin a dialogue to resolve the crisis."

"I urge all those with influence over the situation to use it in the cause of peace," he said, adding, "The humanitarian situation in Sudan was already precarious and is now catastrophic."

The two military factions battling for control of Sudan had shared power during a shaky political transition. The clashes are part of a power struggle between General Burhan, who also heads the transitional council, and General Dagalo, also known as Hemedti, the deputy head of the transitional council.

John Kirby, coordinator for strategic communications at the National Security Council, told reporters on Monday that U.S. officials had "been in direct contact" with both generals "to urge them to end the hostilities immediately." He added that U.S. officials were also working closely with the African Union, the Arab League and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, or IGAD, an East African bloc.

"We call for an immediate cease-fire, without conditions, between the Sudanese armed forces and the Rapid Support Forces," he said. "As Secretary Blinken mentioned this morning, the fighting is killing civilians and threatens the Sudanese nation as well as stability in the region."

But when asked by VOA what specific leverage the U.S. has to influence the warring parties, Kirby said, "I'm not going to speak to specific diplomatic leverage."

He added that all U.S. personnel in the north African nation were accounted for and are sheltering in place.

The RSF claimed Monday it had captured an airport and military bases. The military claimed it regained control of the main television station and said it was in control of its headquarters after brief fighting there.

The fighting in Khartoum has forced most people to stay inside. Offices, schools and gas stations are closed.

Residents of Khartoum said there has been no police presence on the city's streets since the clashes began.

The European Union said its envoy to Sudan was assaulted in his residence on Monday but did not give further details.

Blinken confirmed that a U.S. diplomatic convoy came under fire Monday, adding that initial reports indicated the attack was by forces linked to the Rapid Support Forces.

Calls to end the fighting have come from around the world and within Africa, including the African Union, the Arab League and IGAD.

IGAD said Kenyan President William Ruto, South Sudanese President Salva Kiir and Djibouti's President Omar Guelleh will go to Khartoum to broker an immediate cease-fire.

"President Salva Kiir has already been in touch with both General Burhan and General Hemedti to convey the message of the summit.  Now, preparations are on the way to undertake this mission," Nuur Mohamud Sheekh, a spokesperson for IGAD's executive secretary, told VOA.

Sudan's two top generals, however, have yet to express a willingness to negotiate and each has demanded the other's surrender.

Dagalo said Monday on Twitter that he was defending democracy in Sudan and called Burhan a "radical Islamist." Dagalo's forces emerged out of the notorious Janjaweed militias in Sudan's Darfur region and have been accused of carrying out atrocities in the region.

The two generals are former allies who orchestrated an October 2021 military coup that derailed a transition to civilian rule following the 2019 ouster of longtime leader Omar al-Bashir.

Tensions between the generals have been growing over disagreements about how the RSF should be integrated in the army and who should oversee that process. The restructuring of the military was part of an effort to restore the country to civilian rule and end the political crisis sparked by the 2021 military coup.

VOA English to Africa's Carol Van Dam Falk, VOA Africa correspondent Mariama Diallo, VOA U.N. correspondent Margaret Besheer, VOA White House correspondent Anita Powell, VOA State Department Bureau Chief Nike Ching and VOA reporter Michael Atit contributed to this report. Some information for this article came from The Associated Press, Reuters and Agence France-Presse.
The United States has pledged to support Zimbabweans in an effort to promote good governance.

In a congratulatory message to mark the countrys 43rd independence, Secretary of State Antonty Blinken said, The United States remains committed to standing with the people of Zimbabwe, as we have since your independence in 1980, to work together to promote democratic institutions, equitable economic growth, public health, and food security.

Blinken also said, Zimbabwe has the chance to set itself on a path to promote citizen engagement and to respect human rights. We will continue to support the people of Zimbabwe to live longer, more prosperous, and healthier lives. As you celebrate your independence, please know that our friendship with the Zimbabwean people endures. We wish all Zimbabweans a very happy Independence Day.

The United States and its allies imposed targeted sanctions on some Zanu PF officials over alleged human rights violations and election rigging.
SHANGHAI (Reuters) - Chinese electric vehicle makers should brace for the possibility of protectionist policies being leveled against them by foreign governments as they seize on their cost advantages to expand exports, the founder of Chinese EV maker Nio said.

William Li told reporters on the sidelines of the Shanghai Autoshow that he estimated his firm and peers making EVs in China had as much as a 20% cost advantage over rivals such as Tesla thanks to China's grip over the supply chain and raw materials.

Nio and Chinese rivals such as Xpeng and BYD have set their sights on winning more customers abroad, especially in Europe, as demand weakens in China. Renault, Tesla and BMW are among foreign brands making EVs in China and selling them abroad.

"After exports grow and grow, market protectionism will definitely happen. It is not a good thing for global sustainable development, but we must respect that every country has considerations for protecting local industries. This is the reality we must face," he said.

Nio plans to launch new products tailored to European users, who he said were keen on compact cars. He added that they were also reviewing plans to enter the United States on a quarterly basis.

Reuters reported in February that Nio plans to build a factory to produce budget EVs under a new brand for export to Europe. Li declined to elaborate further on their European or U.S. plans.

Nio offers six models and plans to launch five more this year under its own brand. The Nio brand is positioned for the premium segment to compete with BMW, Mercedes and Audi.

(Reporting by Zhang Yan and Brenda Goh; Editing by Jan Harvey)
New developments:

Foreign ministers from the Group of Seven leading industrialized nations issued a joint statement calling Russias invasion of Ukraine a serious violation of international law and demanding Russia immediately withdraw its troops without conditions.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited troops on Tuesday in the small eastern city of Avdiivka, a day after the Kremlin said Russian President Vladimir Putin met with his military leaders and troops in territories occupied by Moscows forces.

Russian forces used aircraft to unleash fresh assaults on Ukrainian positions in the eastern Donetsk region, the Ukrainian military said on Tuesday, RFE/RL reported.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited troops on Tuesday in the small eastern city of Avdiivka, a day after the Kremlin said Russian President Vladimir Putin met with his military leaders and troops in territories occupied by Moscows forces.

Zelenskyys office said he was briefed by commanders on the battlefield situation. A video showed him addressing troops in combat gear and handing them awards in what appeared to be a large industrial warehouse with sandbags packed against at least one of the high walls.

"I have the honor to be here today, to thank you for your service, for defending our land, Ukraine, our families," he said.

Zelenskyy was also shown visiting a hospital where he inspected facilities, met wounded soldiers and handed out more awards.

Russia has targeted Avdiivka during its winter offensive but has made only small territorial advances in the east. The video footage released by Zelenskyys office also showed heavily damaged high-rise residential buildings in the city, where Ukrainian officials say about 1,800 civilians remain.

Andriy Yermak, the head of Zelenskyys office, said Ukrainian troops were successfully repelling Russian attempts to encircle the city. "Our army has already broken the enemy's plans to break through the [Ukrainian] defenses and advance in the east," Yermak said on the Telegram messaging app.

The Kremlin said Tuesday that Putin visited Moscows forces on Monday, in Russian-occupied parts of the Kherson and Luhansk regions of Ukraine, two provinces that Putin claimed to annex last September. News organizations could not independently confirm his trip to Ukraine and the Kremlin did not announce it until he had left and returned to Russia. It was reportedly Putins second trip to occupied Ukraine in two months.

A video released by the Kremlin and broadcast by Russian state television showed Putin arriving by helicopter at the command post for Russian forces in the southern Kherson region and afterward flying to the headquarters of the Russian National Guard of the eastern Luhansk region.

Dressed in a dark suit, Putin appeared to be heading meetings with his top military brass. The locations of the military headquarters in the Kherson and Luhansk regions werent disclosed, so it wasnt possible to assess how close they are to the front line.

His trips to the military headquarters come as Ukraine says it is preparing for a new counteroffensive to reclaim the occupied territories.

Ukrainian presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak, in an apparent reference to Putins visit, tweeted Tuesday about the Russian leader touring the occupied and ruined territories to enjoy the crimes of his minions for the last time.

Also Tuesday, foreign ministers from the Group of Seven leading industrialized nations issued a joint statement calling Russias invasion of Ukraine a serious violation of international law and demanding Russia immediately withdraw its troops without conditions. The G-7 ministers also pledged to keep Russian assets in their jurisdictions frozen until there is a resolution of the conflict that addresses Russias violation of Ukraines sovereignty and territorial integrity.

SEE ALSO:

Ukrainian grain

Monday European Union ambassadors in Brussels discussed a decision by some member states to temporarily ban imports of grain and other items from Ukraine.

Slovakia on Monday joined Poland and Hungary in announcing a ban on some food imports from Ukraine, with other central and eastern European countries saying they may follow suit.

The three countries argue a glut of low-priced agricultural imports is hurting their local farmers. Poland and Hungary on Saturday said their bans will remain in effect through June 30.

SEE ALSO:

Spokespersons for the EU's executive arm said Monday a solution must be found that respects the EU legal framework, The Associated Press reported.

Lavrov in Brazil

Separately, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said Monday that Moscow wants a quick end to the conflict in Ukraine.

At a news conference with Brazilian counterpart Mauro Vieira in Brasilia, Lavrov thanked his counterpart for "understanding of the genesis of the situation in Ukraine." He added that Russia had "an interest" in the conflict ending as soon as possible.

Russia has reiterated that any peace negotiation in Ukraine must acknowledge the "realities" of Russia's unilateral annexation of four Ukrainian provinces.

Russia says it was forced to intervene in Ukraine to defend Russian speakers from persecution and prevent the West from using Ukraine as a springboard to threaten Russia's security.

Kyiv and the West say these are baseless pretexts for a war of conquest where war crimes have been committed.

The White House sharply criticized Brazil for meeting with Lavrov in person, while only speaking to Ukrainian officials by phone.

National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said, "Brazil is parroting Russian and Chinese propaganda" on Ukraine without looking at the facts.

Brazils foreign minister pushed back on the criticism, saying of Kirby, "I don't know how or why he reached that conclusion but I do not agree at all."

Some material in this report came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters.
TUESDAY, April 18, 2023 (American Heart Association News) -- In the early months of 2021, heavy snow blanketed the city of Philadelphia.

Justin Stroh and his wife, Bess, both in their 60s, had been taking turns shoveling the snow in front of their suburban home. On a Monday in February, the snow was falling fast and hard, dumping 1 to 2 inches an hour before mixing with rain. The combination made it too heavy to clear. The Strohs considered taking a long walk with Michael, their Labrador mix, but decided it was too slick to walk safely.

Bess settled in to work in a back bedroom, where she'd created a makeshift office during the pandemic. But Justin suddenly decided he needed to tackle the sidewalk. He stepped out without telling his wife. He doesn't know why, because he has no memory of that day  or the days and weeks that followed.

Justin collapsed in front of their home, far from where Bess could've seen or heard him. He was lying there, lifeless, when Jennifer Kennedy drove by on her way to pick up her son from school.

"I happened to see in my peripheral vision that there was a guy lying in the snow," Kennedy said. She pulled her car over, climbed around a snowbank and called out to him. Getting no response, she called 911 and began CPR. Having been trained as a cardiac surgical nurse, she knew exactly what to do.

Kennedy's efforts were the first in a series of events that likely saved Justin's life  and his brain function.

Nine out of 10 people who go into cardiac arrest outside a hospital die. Many of those who are resuscitated die before being discharged from the hospital due to injuries to their brain and vital organs from lack of oxygen when their heart stopped. But those who get CPR from a bystander have double the chance of survival.

There are many reasons people can go into cardiac arrest. Heart attacks  more common during periods of heavy snowfall, when shoveling places extra stress on the heart  are one of them. It was a heart attack, stemming from a blocked artery, that caused Justin's cardiac arrest.

Emergency medical professionals restored Justin's heartbeat. However, he spent about three months in the hospital, an odyssey that included a month spent in a medically induced coma and a bout with pneumonia resulting from the insertion of a breathing tube during his ambulance ride. Along the way, kidney problems prompted temporary dialysis.

Just as he was starting to recover, he came down with COVID-19. Until this time, Bess had stayed by his side in the ICU, reading to her husband, playing music and talking to him. So it was no surprise that when he got COVID-19, she did, too.

Another challenge Justin overcame was some temporary cognitive issues. Once conscious again, he had to relearn how to speak. And how to walk. He also has some memory loss. The last thing he remembers is being at a museum in New York with his daughter, something that happened two weeks before his collapse.

"I look normal, but I still suffer from a few things," he said. "I am incredibly easily winded. I can't do very much."

What he can do is walk 2 miles on a treadmill, lift some weights and spend 10 minutes on the elliptical machine, but it exhausts him. He can speak, but he sometimes struggles to find the right words. He had to retire from his job as a research scientist. He now spends his time trying to piece his story together and look for ways to turn what happened to him into something positive, like getting involved with the American Heart Association.

He remains eternally grateful for the lifesaving help he received from Kennedy, the woman who gave him CPR, and the medical professionals who never gave up on him. The list includes a speech therapist and a team of respiratory specialists.

"He worked with some really extraordinary people," Bess said. "They invested in him and believed in him. That makes a huge difference."

Justin thinks of these people often, especially Kennedy. While he has no memory of what she did for him, he knows he wouldn't be alive without her and has called to tell her so. He sends her a box of Christmas cookies every year. Kennedy, who added the Strohs to her Christmas card list, said the cookies make her smile.

Not half as wide as Justin.

American Heart Association News covers heart and brain health. Not all views expressed in this story reflect the official position of the American Heart Association. Copyright is owned or held by the American Heart Association, Inc., and all rights are reserved.

By Laura Williamson, American Heart Association News
The multinational military exercise Defender 23, directed by the US Army Europe, begins on April 22nd. The exercise will take place for two months in 10 European countries. 9,000 US soldiers and 17,000 others from 26 US allied countries, with Italy in the foreground, will participate. They will use 7,000 pieces of equipment (armaments and military equipment) shipped from the United States to Europe, plus another 13,000 pieces of military equipment from US Army depots in Europe. Finally, in June, a major air warfare exercise will take place in Europe with US and allied fighter-bombers with dual conventional and nuclear capabilities. While Europe is being transformed by the USA into a training ground for the war against Russia, the Russian strategic missile forces are enhancing their combat capability with the test launch of a new intercontinental ballistic missile that can be armed with multiple nuclear warheads.

At the same time, the USA is increasing its military forces deployed in the Indo-Pacific, the region which, in the geography of the Pentagon, extends from the west coast of the United States to the coast of India. The central objective of this escalation is China, which Washington increasingly fears for its political and economic initiatives, especially today in the Middle East. The headline of the Washington Post is emblematic: Chinas new world order is taking shape. Despite the US attempt to isolate China, French and German entrepreneurs are closing big contracts in China.

Italy, on the other hand, is preparing to send the Cavour carrier with US F-35B fighters on board to the Indo-Pacific, de facto under US command in an anti-Chinese function. Italy also enters the Indo-Pacific with an important agreement concluded with Japan and the United Kingdom: Global Combat Air Programme, the Global Combat Air Programme, for the construction of a sixth-generation fighter. Since it will be a nuclear attack aircraft, the Program will allow Japan to become a de facto nuclear country, as is Italy equipped with nuclear weapons by the USA. The Global Combat Air Programme will cost tens of billions of dollars before the new fighter enters service.
Hes probably a Barb. Photo-Illustration: Vulture. Photos: Getty Images

By command of the king, the earl marshal is directed to invite Madame Nicki Minaj to be present at the Abbey Church of Westminster on the 6th day of May, 2023. Which is what the rapper allegedly read when she opened her invitation to the coronation of Their Majesties King Charles III & Queen Camilla, according to a post on the British Royal Familys official website under the news tab. That is to say, Prince Harrys Pa, who likes to do headstands naked in public, is having a little bash to formally name himself the king following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, last September. Despite the event seeming outside the realm of our business here at Vulture, King Charless notable guests have made the archaic pomp and circumstance our business. Below, all the relevant details about the upcoming affair, including celebrity guests and performers.

Who was the earl marshal directed to invite?

Nicki Minaj agreed to attend after the kings entourage appeared in front of guests homes with a scroll and commanded their presence at His Majestys coronation. Actually, Minaj just tweeted, Ill be attending the coronation. Thank you. Stream #PrincessDiana until I land  scones on dekk

Whole lotta gang sh!t . The announcement seems more geared to promoting her new track than a serious announcement about her plans to make an appearance at an old mans tea party. Either way, the confirmed guest list includes the Royal Family so far (i.e. the man who devoted quite a few pages of his memoir to his penis troubles will show up. Meghan Markle and their children were decidedly not coming, per a Buckingham Palace press release). And maybe Nicki Lewinsky.

The streets have said that British pop stars Adele, Ed Sheeran, and Harry Styles all declined invitations, but that didnt mean the Royals didnt book anyone. (They didnt take any of Vultures suggestions, though. Taylor Swift deserved the slot!) Katy Perry will regale us with her cotton-candy worlds, while Lionel Richie, Andrea Bocelli, and Take That each have a set. Sir Bryn Terfel, Freya Ridings, and Alexis Ffrench round out the bill.

How can I watch it?

The service commences May 6 at 11 a.m. British time, or 6 a.m. EST, and will likely stream on BBC America. Or you can simply watch the funny clips on Twitter.
Wowwww folks, we finally got some big reveals in the penultimate chapter of our little Perry Mason mystery here. That moment when you find out who the big baddie is and what exactly they have been scheming on this whole time, and youre left with that Oh, shit, now what? feeling. I love that for us. Holcomb wasnt kidding when he said Brooks McCutcheon was into something bigger than anybody this towns even thinking about, and I dunno about you all, but I saw this one coming about as clearly as anyone in the show did, which is to say not at all. Then again, I never see the whole picture until the very last piece of the puzzle is put into place, so whaddya gonna do?

But first, remember our secret foe from the last episode who broke into Masons office and found the gun? It turned out to be the most likely suspect after all. Sneaking around is Pete Stricklands bag, after all, as Milligan points out over a celebratory belt of his fathers Napolean cognac or whatever complete with an inscription on the inside of the lid that reads to victory in French. A little piece of Napoleonica thatd make Connor Roy jealous. Man, what is it with these guys and huffing the fumes of power off these, like, souvenirs of imperial conquest? Anyway, its a wasted gesture on a guy like old Strick, whos clearly remorseful, in his own way, about betraying his buddys trust, shaky though it was.

Listen, I dont like leaving things bad between us, Pete tells Perry on an overpass bridge. Sometimes I get myself pulled into things, and I dont feel good about it, but I do it anyway. And Perry knows straightaway his pal was the one who broke into the safe  shock, hurt, anger, and acceptance all on his face in an instant. Rhys is a pro, man. Our guys have it out the way male friends of a certain age who hurt each others feelings tend to have it out, with a good old-fashioned bare-knuckle brawl. With that out of the way, Petes ready to make amends on his friends side of the fight, and Perrys ready to accept it.

I mean, what choice does he have? Judge Durkin gave the prosecution two days to get a brief on his desk with a plan for going forward with the trial and the charges they would bring against Mason. When those two days are up, so could his career as a lawyer. But hes got one long shot up his sleeve. If I can piece together some fucking bizarre evidence, he tells Pete, I could possibly take down some of the biggest names in this city.

Hell, yeah, lets fucking go. Mason brings Pete back to the office to a furiously reluctant Della and Paul. And thats before Perry tells them Pete was their office burglar. Ultimately, neither Paul nor Della can deny that Petes inside track on the prosecution makes him a valuable ally right when they need one most.

So its off to the mattresses and everyone on the teams got their own quest for this quick-turnaround investigation. Mason and Strick meet up with Holcomb at the port where the Feds are sweeping a McCutcheon ship supposedly about to set off for Japan. My guy in the Fed office says they always leave at night, Holcomb tells them. Clearly they dont want people to see what theyre dumping. So Holcomb bounces, and Mason and Strick sneak onboard with a line of deckhands and spy the whole operation. It looks like this ship is meeting up with another McCutcheon liner offshore, trading out all that produce for black gold and shipping the oil to Japan instead. Mason snaps some photos of the whole scene before they jump ship. Theres one big-ass piece of the puzzle secured.

Meanwhile, Della visits Hamilton Burger at his office to find out whats got him spooked. He takes offense, or at least feigns to, when she brings up the night they found each other in the proverbial closet, but you can tell she means it when she says their friendship makes her feel like shes not alone, and losing that lifeline has been rough for both of them. Ham, she says, Im looking for the truth. Burger finally, though still reluctantly, acquiesces. He pulls a set of photos from a locked desk drawer of him in what folks in the 30s might call a compromised position with another man.

Dellas rattled (this has some serious implications for her well-being), but her expression leads with empathy for her friend. Burger still doesnt know whos blackmailing him with these photos, and Justin Kirk plays his silent suffering with chilling precision. As soon as hes opened up to Della, he shuts her out again. Accept defeat. Let the Feds handle the rest. But why would the Feds be handling anything?

The next stop is the Department of Agriculture, where Della talks to Mr. Denning, who investigated Brooks McCutcheon and Charlie Goldsteins little produce price-gouging scam. It turns out hed even subpoenaed them. Big news for Mason & Co. as it places more visibility on the McCutcheon empires shady activities much earlier in the timeline than theyd ever anticipated. But when Della inquires about McCutcheon and Goldsteins file, Denning bolts from his office. Many cigarettes later, Della is greeted not by Denning but by some mysterious thug in a newsies cap  the same bloke whos been tailing her and Mason: Mr. Denning had an emergency. He wont be coming back to the office today. Thatll be all, Miss Street. And thats it. The door is slammed shut as soon as it opens. Red flags all around.

So its back to the office for another round of Heres what we got so far. I reckon itll be the last one of these  or second to last, more likely  as theyre as close as theyve ever been to the whole truth and nothing but the truth but not quite there. So heres what Mason, Strickland, and secretary Marion figure out:

Della thinks Brooks was taking the produce Lydell was dumping and selling it on the black market. Another losing scheme by the bumbling prince of the city, Strickland says. And the Feds got wind of it, so they subpoenaed Brooks and Goldstein to testify about the scam. The only problem is thats probably not the only thing theyd testify about.

So why the big charade? Why pretend to send produce to Japan, then sneak on all that oil? Heres where Marion comes in with the big missing piece: Are they selling oil to the Japanese military? Who are they at war with? asks Pete. LOL, quaint to think how isolationist we used to be as a country, though not knowing anything about whats going on anywhere else in the world aint exactly a thing of the past around here. Anyway, Japans on a coup-attempt spree right now, and the League of Nations is imposing sanctions. McCutcheon clearly wouldnt want anyone to know he was selling oil to the Japanese under the table, and Brookss little side scam was about to shine a bright light on his dads bigger one.

So Lydell really did have his own son killed, they figure. Close, and I imagine what most of us were waiting for, but not the whole cigar.

Lydell is skeet shooting with his grandson when Mason shows up for the big showdown. Just returning something you dropped, he says, burlap sack of oily produce in his hand. I want a better deal for my clients, Mason says. Work it out with Burger and bring the team something better this time. Because if you dont, if Im suddenly no longer around when this offer is completed, then all of my research goes to the FBI and the press. And along with that research, he can tell them Lydell illegally schemed with the Japanese to sell them oil and how he had such little faith in his own son not to tell people about it that he paid to have him executed.

I tried to save him! Lydells exclaims. But he wouldnt let me! Paul Raci plays the scene with palpable fear and desperation under his fading layer of menace, just as he did in the premiere episode when he warned Brooks to back off before things got ugly. I wont take the blame for this.

Brooks was clearly a liability to Lydell, but he didnt want his sons death, and Mason can tell hes not lying about that. So who did?

Our first big tip-off comes from Paul and Clara Drake, whove just made up and realigned as a PI power couple in time to catch that fancy blue car picking up some smack at the corner Pauls been watching. They follow the car to its house in an affluent white neighborhood, and after some brief reluctance from Paul, Clara approaches the door posing as a Jehovahs Witness. Are you Josephine Baker? asks the woman lying on a couch in the front room, needle still in her arm. She starts OD-ing real quick, and her husband arrives home before Clara can clear the hell out. She ducks behind a closet door, and we hear a familiar voice asking about dinner plans. Its fucking Phipps, Camilla Nygaards pet lawyer.

Now heres the big facepalm Ohhhhh, of course! moment that comes with every murder mystery, for this recapper at least. Camilla Nygaard, duh! The real femme fatale was the girlboss oil baron all along. Earlier in the episode, at a meeting with their Japanese business partners, Camilla is the top dog, speaking Japanese to make moves outside Lydells purview. And when Lydell reacts with venom to her suggestions they make a memorial to secure Brookss future image, you get the sense theres more to it than feeling insulted by a peer.

And though plenty of clues have led us to our main culprit, the editing work near the episodes end really drives the point home. As Camillas puppet-master fingers glide over the ivory keys of her piano, we cut to the Gallardo brothers in prison, the stoolies in her grand plan. Rafaels just been released from solitary (or worse), and hes in a bad way. Mateo just got word from their aunt that Rafa was accepted to art school, and its up to Mateo to decide whether to tell him. Rafa lies in bed, shaking, eyes glazed over, and Mateo crumples the acceptance letter in his hands.

Meanwhile, Judge Durkin reads the brief from the DAs office, Burger standing still before him while Milligan smiles. All the pieces of the puzzle fall into place. We cut back to Camilla at her piano when the bald thug with the newsies cap enters the room, hands her some photos of Della in the parking lot at the Department of Agriculture. It turns out that when you live in an earthly annex of hell under the rule of money-worshipping oil barons, the one who just so happens to be a woman with the more modern mansion and supports the arts or whatever isnt going to save you. In fact, she just might be the most diabolical of the lot.

Inculpatory Evidence

 Another great Justin Kirk moment: in Judge Durkins office when Milligan says, We can try this case again, Im not worried. The enormous eye roll Burger gives him  chefs kiss.

 Theres a lot of cigarette smoking in this show, more than period and genre appropriate. Still, something about this episode, in particular, made me stop and think, Man, I love how dedicated this show is to making smoking look cool. I think it was the transition from Lydell putting out his cigar after a few healthy puffs to Denning in the Department of Agriculture blowing nice big clouds through the light of the blinds in his office. I dont know; Im firmly in the camp that smoking in movies and TV just looks too cool to cancel. We all know cigarettes are bad by now, right? Let the directors and cinematographers cook with all that light and curling smoke.

 I was thrilled that Paul and Clara resolved their tiff when they did  not sure I couldve handled them being on the outs much longer. Made for some riveting expression of interiority (Clar, the choices I made, they used to have fewer consequences. They didnt have as long a reach) as well as a great little co-side-quest. What can I say? Im a happily married man who loves seeing a true power couple come back together, you know? In any case, Im still gunning for the Thin Manstyle Drake mystery spinoff.

 The Camilla Nygaard reveal doesnt completely let Anita St. Pierre or Ginny Aimes off the hook (I reckon at least one of them could still be nefarious in some way or another), but it does put me way more at ease about both of them for the time being. Heres hoping that, by the end of the finale, their convenient entrances into the lives of their respective new boos are convenient and nothing more.
Its the first real delivery on the title of the show. What do you do when the person who creates the temperature in the room is no longer there? Photo: HBO

What does it look like when a familiar world, suddenly shattered, starts reassembling itself? More important, who will be in charge of that world? Those were the questions facing Lorene Scafaria when she signed on to direct the one after The One  the fourth episode of Successions final season and the first without Brian Cox, whose blistering billionaire patriarch, Logan Roy, died in the previous installment. Honeymoon States weaves a classic gathering episode through Logans rambling apartment; various relatives, acquaintances, power brokers, society vultures, and corporate executives move among the rooms and floors in ways that subtly comment on how much power each can exercise at any given moment. The most significant action, however, zooms in on an ambiguously annotated piece of paper, discovered in Logans private safe, which suggests he wanted his second-oldest son, Kendall (Jeremy Strong), to take over the company  though its hard to say for sure, because what highlights Kendalls name on the document could be either an underline or a strike-through.

Previously, Scafaria directed season threes Too Much Birthday, which found a miserable, ostracized Kendall throwing himself a lavish birthday party while alternating between manic and miserable. Some of the parameters for Honeymoon States are reminiscent of that assignment, notably the spatial constraints on the action, though this time, the set was much more compact than a rented space the size of a mall. Scafaria spoke about the challenges inherent in crafting a story around an absence and how the actors and crew rose to the occasion  including the shows prop master Monica Jacobs, who had to create a document that was convincing no matter how the characters (and viewers) wanted to interpret it.

What were some of the similarities and differences between this episode and the last one you directed, Too Much Birthday?

I also did episode six this year, and all three of them are different. But all three focus on the siblings (Kendall, Shiv, and Roman) without dad in the room  although in this one, it feels like, even though hes gone, hes still pulling the strings. The last episode I did and this one were good for Kendalls arc. His birthday debacle certainly focused on him going from the highest highs to the lowest lows, and this one is taking him from the lowest low to some kind of small victory. Hes getting in position.

Almost the entire story takes place in Logans house.

It really does  except for those brief opening scenes, when you get to see the siblings in the moment of reality the morning after. But yeah, this is a real bottle episode. There are seven spaces on the main floor  all kind of one large room. Then youve got the library upstairs and Logans study downstairs. Not a lot of bells and whistles in this one, and its all in real time, counting down to the board meeting thats happening in an hour.

This is the second episode in a row when almost all of the significant action is more or less happening in real time, right?

Yeah! Something feels like its amping up this season. Most of the episodes seem to be happening within a day or 24 hours.

Have you ever told a story of this length, in which maybe 95 percent takes place in one location?

No. I mean, Kendalls birthday had a little bit of that feeling, but there were more limitations on this that became a fun challenge  more so than constraints  thanks mainly to the script by Jesse Armstrong and Lucy Prebble. It was a bit daunting being the one after The One, you know, because that meant we were going to get the most eyeballs. People would want to see what happens after Logan is gone. In a way, its the first real delivery on the title of the show. Its the first one where hes truly gone. What do you do when the person who creates the temperature in the room is no longer there?

When I read the script, I took some inspiration from Clue  its got that murder-mystery vibe. And it kind of feels like a living, breathing Eugene ONeill play. And a bit of a Scandinavian vibe sneaks in there in places, which is not what a Scotsman like Logan would have wanted.

Photo: HBO

What do the spatial restrictions do to the storytelling?

It was about creating claustrophobia and keeping that feeling alive. I thought about the apartment layout  how its a bit of a circle with a ring-around-the-rosie quality to it. Theres all this gravity pulling them in different rooms. Then everybody gathers together. On a show like this, a well-oiled machine where all the actors know their parts so well, its a joy to be thinking in terms of blocking.

Can you explain what blocking means in terms of filmmaking, where the camera can be anywhere, as opposed to blocking actors onstage, where everybody in the audience is looking at the performers from the same direction?

Blocking for film and TV is framing, composition, and storytelling. Its about framing the actors in the shot as well as in relation to each other in their space so that the camera tells the audience where the story is going, whos gaining or losing control, whats happening in the relationships thats not spoken, and the significance of objects.

Lets talk about the objects.

It was a real joy for me to think about something like how to treat their dads chairs. For the scene in the study, I remember telling Kieran Culkin, Maybe Roman would be sitting in it rather unceremoniously at the start. Its not really a power move, because the three siblings are on the same side at that point in the episode  compared to the end, when Kendall, even though hes sitting on the arm of the chair, is taking a power position.

But really, the best solution some of the time was to try to get out of the way of these actors, and other times, to see if we could have a bit of fun in terms of where they are in a room, what level theyre on, the focus of the audience, and whom were tracking. Theres so much going on in their motions and in the thoughts behind their eyes, which I wanted to capture.

Photo: HBO

What kinds of precautions did you take to make sure that major plot information was heard on set on a need-to-know basis when you were filming a scene with a lot of characters in one space, more arriving or leaving, and lots of extras milling about?

For all the scenes that Mark Mylod had to shoot on that boat  and, to a lesser degree, the scenes we had to shoot for this episode in that house  we just had to trust in all the actors, especially the background actors. I do a lot of research on all the background actors that show up. Most of these performers are people wed used for background in previous celebrations on the show. If you look at this one, youll see a lot of the same faces you saw at Logans birthday party in episode one. Its a really important role they all play, so we make people feel like they really are a part of it, that theyre scene partners with the main cast and can deliver in scenes like when Ken is walking into that house for the first time in a while and theres a haunted-house vibe. Weve got a couple of women in there from ATN. Its a surreal atmosphere  no matter who your father is or how much larger than life he may be. Its always a surreal moment.

I dont think this is a story that can be spoiled, to be honest. Even though I knew ahead of time what was coming in episode three, I was moved by seeing all that agony happen in real time.

I wondered at first whether this could even be a show without Brian Cox, and this episode answered that question  though perhaps not in the way one might expect. I feel like hes still weirdly on the show.

Hes still pulling the strings. One piece of paper is tearing them apart. The three siblings in that room reading all the obituaries together and sharing inappropriate laughter is the last moment of total unity that you see. A single sheet of paper, and one line on that sheet of paper, ends it. Tiny, tiny gestures are so huge. Of course hes not around, but at times like that its hard to tell: Is this a game? You feel like the first domino just fell in a Rube Goldberg machine. Hes already winning, it feels like, just by splitting them apart.

Thats also incredibly true in how grief brings out a lot of different reactions. Theres something so relatable about siblings fighting over who gets grandmas Stoney Creek collection. These are Dads things. This is his legacy. But its also his love. The relationship with Dad is over  full stop. Except its not. The conversations with ghosts continue. Thats part of why it was such a fun episode to play with. For the first time, youre getting to see Logans children without him. But youre getting to see Frank, Gerri, and Karl in a way that you havent seen them in a while. When the cats away 

Photo: HBO

So was it an underline or a strike-through?

Well, you know  are you an optimist? Its really hard to say: Its not this, or it is that?

You must know thats the kind of answer Gerri would give!

Lets just say that if it was my show, I might have a different answer for you! But that line is done so you can read it either way. I have to give the greatest credit here to the shows prop master Monica Jacobs, who has had such an important role in the storytelling all these years. Theres so much that comes from things like wardrobe and hair that become an essential part of the story, and the props are a part of it, too, especially for actors like Kieran, who will suddenly grab on to a prop in take three and start doing something interesting with it, and you just have to go with it  like the cigar in the scene with the siblings.

When he sits in the chair after he says, Im done helping old ladies cross the street.

Yeah!

I guess thats one of the advantages of working with multiple cameras? If an actor improvises something not indicated in the script in take three and youve only got one camera going, you worry that you cant cut it together with the other footage youve already got, because the cigar will keep disappearing and reappearing during the scene.

Hmmm, yeah. And in something thats basically real time like this, you just want to keep it alive  especially with actors as good as these. You start with a plan, a complete shot list. I like to go in with a heavy plan. Even on a show like this, where a lot of what happens is spontaneous and you can kind of smash and grab, I wanted to be more deliberate. You have so many characters and other people swirling around, some of whom you havent seen in a minute, and so much information. All of that needs to be facilitated.

What was your favorite moment of the episode once you saw it all cut together?

I think Frank, Karl, and Gerri up in the library facing the music for the first time. I love them so much, and I love that little aside when Karl says hes half in on a Greek island with his brother. David Rasche is one of those actors  the minute he starts talking, you want to laugh out loud. Tom and Shiv on the stairs is another one I love. Theres so much going on, so many complexities  especially once you realize what Shiv is going through that shes not saying.

And getting to see Kerry in that truly vulnerable moment. Zoe Winters is so brilliant. Shes had so many great moments this year. It was pretty impressive, because that was in the middle of, dare I say, a 15-minute take. Mark did a 27-minute take in the one before this, so what does it matter? But in the middle of a 15-minute take, time after time, to see her do what she did  that moment of vulnerability with her dropping the bag and Roman helping her pick up the contents came together really well.

Were the dropping of the bag and Shiv tripping on the stairs indicated in the script?

Yes, both of those moments were in the script. Shivs fall  not knowing that Sarah Snook was pregnant at the time, Im terrified about it now, thinking about it. But that was just Sarah doing it so well. You cant cut around a stunt like that. Of course, we had a stunt coordinator and padding. She fell and twisted her ankle beautifully without getting hurt.

How would you describe the experience of directing Succession overall?

The writing is so good that it gets me halfway there, and the actors and crew get me most of the rest of the way there. Working with a group of people who have been there from the beginning gives the director a lot of freedom. You can see how distinctive each episode is depending on whos behind the camera. Each episode calls for something different. Every episode has different rules that apply to the camera. In this one, you have a lot of obstructions you have to shoot around.

You cant rest on your laurels. I come in as a fan who can help calibrate taste and find levels, and when the actors have got it, give them one more take  a fun one when magic can happen. Directing this show seems like what it would be like shooting the Oscars or the Super Bowl. Mainly, you want to be in the right place at the right time.

This interview has been edited and condensed.
BEIJING (Reuters) - China's southern Guangdong province is planning to launch a second phase of a semiconductor fund with a scale of 30 billion yuan ($4.37 billion), state media Securities Times reported on Tuesday.

The fund will have a term of 17 years and will invest in auto chips and equipment for semiconductor material, Jin Shenghong, chairman of a trust company called Yuecai Holdings said at a semiconductor event in Guangdong on Tuesday, according to Securities Times.

The fund's first phase, since established in 2021, has reached 31 billion yuan and has invested in 102 companies so far. Out of these firms, 19 will seek IPOs in 2023 and 2024, the report said.

China is looking to build self-reliance in key technology such as semiconductors as it faces increasing pressure from the United States, which has cited national security in restricting such Chinese industries' access to key supply chains.

Beijing has urged that the research and development of cutting-edge technologies to be accelerated. Other funds focused on the chips industry include the China Integrated Circuit Industry Investment Fund, also known as the "Big Fund", which China launched in 2014.

($1 = 6.8708 Chinese yuan)

(Reporting by Albee Zhang and Brenda Goh; Editing by Jacqueline Wong and Kim Coghill)
Exploration fieldwork has identified six well mineralized and outcropping porphyry and related style targets within a 400 metre radius of the Apollo system with assay results for soil and rock samples as follows:

Surface mapping at all six targets has outlined the same style of porphyry mineralization as the Apollo system, namely altered porphyry with vein stockwork, inter-mineral breccia with oxide followed by sulphides in the matrix and overprinting late-stage porphyry veins ("CBM Veins").



Although the amount of rock and soil exposure in the sampling radius covering each of the six target areas is limited due to vegetation, historical landslides and volcanic ash cover, the scale of the areas and tenor of the assay results are similar to the original outcrop of the Apollo system. The Company estimates that there is no more than 5% rock exposure anywhere at the Guayabales project.

For comparison, the outcrop of the Apollo porphyry system prior to drilling only measured 10 metres in diameter. Subsequent drilling has outlined a porphyry system that to date measures 150 metres by 130 metres at surface, which then expands in dimensions quickly at depth to up to 500 metres wide and remains open.

Surface sampling was carried out in oxidized material and if the oxidation zone shares similar characteristics to the Apollo system, the copper and silver grades have been reduced by leaching. Recent drill results from Pad 6 and Pad 7 at Apollo corroborates this assertion.

A fourth drill rig is being mobilized to the project and is expected to initiate testing of the six new targets in late Q2, 2023.

Six additional holes have been completed at the Apollo system with assay results expected in the near term. APC-41, APC-42 and APC-45 are shorter holes designed to test the contact zones between the inter-mineral breccia and porphyry host rock in search of higher-grade sub zones. APC-44 and APC 46 are longer holes (up to 425 metres in mineralization) drilled from Pad 6 as part of a fan pattern to assess the shallow mineralization in this area and APC-47 is an exploratory hole drilled to the east from Pad 4 to test for mineralization beginning from below surface.

Story continues

Ari Sussman, Executive Chairman commented: "The discovery of these new mineralized porphyry outcrops around Apollo are both exciting and significant for the Company. The original discovery outcrop of Apollo only covered a 10 metre radius and subsequent drilling has demonstrated that Apollo has the morphology of an inverted carrot with limited surface expression. This fact puts these new targets into perspective and highlights that the Apollo area is highly prospective for further exploration. We only found these new outcrops because of various recently excavated tracks emplaced to service and supply the drilling pads. I am looking forward to new drill rigs turning at these targets in the near term."

TORONTO, April 18, 2023 /CNW/ - Collective Mining Ltd. (TSXV: CNL) (OTCQX: CNLMF) ("Collective" or the "Company") is pleased to announce exploration results from six newly generate porphyry and related style targets located within the Apollo target area at the Guayabales project located in Caldas, Colombia. The Apollo porphyry system is a high-grade, bulk tonnage copper-silver-gold system, which owes its excellent metal endowment to an older copper-silver and gold porphyry system being overprinted by younger precious metal rich, carbonate base metal vein systems (intermediate sulphidation porphyry veins) within a magmatic, hydrothermal inter-mineral breccia body currently measuring 395 metres x 385 metres x 915 metres and open for expansion.

Details (See Table 1 and Figures 1-3)

Exploration fieldwork has identified six target areas with outcropping porphyry style mineralization which are located within a 400 metre radius of the Apollo porphyry system. These new targets were generated by geological mapping, soil sampling and most importantly the emplacement of new tracks to enable supplies and equipment to be transported to the current drill pads in the area. Two key characteristics pertinent to understanding the potential impact of the targets and their associated metal values in rock and soil are as follows:

A. Collectively, the targets consist of all the same mineralization styles observed in the Apollo system, namely early-stage porphyry style with various porphyry veinlets, inter-mineral breccia, and late stage CBM veins which host higher values of gold and silver. The copper values range between 31 ppm and 1,410 ppm and reflect leaching of copper and silver due to surface oxidation. The leaching of copper in oxides at Apollo has been observed in all oxidized material drilled from Pad 6 and Pad 7. Copper values near surface in these drill holes display very similar grades to those observed in the six outcrops outlined in this release. Gold values range from 0.18 g/t to 8.29 g/t and silver values from 0.2 g/t to 346 g/t with variation in both cases related to the mineralization styles encountered. B. Cognizance must be taken of the surface area and 3D morphology of the Apollo porphyry system when assessing these new porphyry outcrops. The original Apollo discovery outcrop was only 10 metres in diameter and was the only exposure identified prior to the drilling of discovery hole APC-1. The discovery outcrop had gold, silver, and copper values in the ranges of 0.07 to 4.1 g/t gold, 1.9 to 29 g/t silver and 377 to 1,023 ppm copper. After the erection of multiple drill pads, another two outcrop areas were located at Apollo following the construction of various tracks which were emplaced to service the various drill rigs with equipment and supplies. There is only approximately 5% outcrop exposure at the Guayabales project due to the dense vegetation and the covering of primary rock surfaces by historic landslide fill and young volcanic ash. Furthermore, drilling at the Apollo deposit has demonstrated that the surface expression is relatively small with a maximum known diameter at present of 150 metres whereas at depth this expands quickly to a known diameter of up to 500 metres. The deposit is still open in all directions.

The following brief descriptions and data are summarized for each outcrop target:

Target 1:

This target is located 200 metres west of the Apollo outcrop area. This outcrop has dimensions of 20 metres by 3 metres and hosts early-stage porphyry mineralization as well as clast supported crackle breccia with an iron oxide matrix cement of 3% to 5% in volume. Drusy quartz veining is superimposed on the breccia. Pervasive and strong sericite alteration overprints the rock exposures. Gold grades range from 1.13 g/t to 0.34 g/t with silver ranging from 0.2 g/t to 6.6 g/t and copper in the range of 90 ppm to 224 ppm.

Target 2:

This target is located 300 metres northeast of the Apollo system, has outcrop dimensions of 120 metres by 60 metres and contains a couple of historical and shallow artisanal mines. Geological mapping has identified altered porphyry hosting angular breccia with quartz diorite clasts. The matrix of the breccia has total sulphides of up to 5% which is predominantly pyrite with some chalcopyrite. CBM veinlets overprint the breccia and trend NW and EW. Alteration is strong and defined by sericite and chlorite. Gold values range from 8.29 g/t to 1.51 g/t, silver from 10 g/t to 346 g/t and copper from 72 ppm to 362 ppm.

Target 3:

Target 3 is located 300 metres east-northeast of the Apollo system and has outcrop dimensions of 15 metres by 3 metres. The outcrop area hosts angular breccia with quartz diorite clasts with an iron oxide cement (1%-2%) after sulphides. Strong Sericite-chlorite alteration is observed. The target has subsequently been expanded to 75 metres by 170 metres by anomalous gold in soil values. Rock samples range from 0.18 g/t to 0.63 g/t gold, silver ranges from 2 g/t to 68 g/t and copper from 43 ppm to 277 ppm.

Target 4:

This target is located 250 metres east of the Apollo system with dimensions measuring 20 metres x 4 metres and host crackle breccia of diorite composition and altered porphyry rocks. Breccia cement hosts 2%-3% iron oxide after sulphide while both the porphyry and breccia units are overprinted by CBM veinlets. Strong sericite alteration is observed in the outcrop. The target has been expanded to 150 metres by 100 metres by anomalous gold in soil values. Rock samples range from 0.90 to 4.31 g/t gold, 1 g/t to 56 g/t silver and copper ranges from 125 ppm to 323 ppm.

Target 5:

This target area is located 100 metres due east of the Apollo system and has dimensions measuring 15 metres by 10 metres. Geology observed includes altered porphyry, angular breccia and late stage CBM veinlets. The breccia matrix hosts 3%-5% iron oxides after sulphide with strong sericitic alteration. Anomalous soil sample results for gold have expanded the target area to 200 metres by 100 metres. Rock samples range from 0.56 g/t to 5.59 g/t gold, 6 g/t to 70 g/t silver and copper ranges from 477 ppm to 833 ppm.

Target 6:

This target area is located 400 metres due southeast of the Apollo system and outcrops over a 30 metre diameter area. The outcrop hosts angular, polymictic, clast supported breccia (diorite and quartz diorite) and altered porphyry with quartz veinlets. The matrix cement hosts visible sulphides of 3%-5% and consists of chalcopyrite, sphalerite, galena and pyrite. Rock samples range from 0.39 g/t to 1.07 g/t gold, 6 g/t to 20 g/t silver and copper ranges from 32 ppm to 1,410 ppm.

Update on Apollo Drilling Progress

The Phase II drilling program of 2023 is advancing on schedule with thirteen holes completed and a further six holes in the lab awaiting assay results. Since the discovery of the Apollo porphyry system was announced in June 2022, a total of 44 drill holes (approximately 18,978 metres) have been completed and assayed.

Six additional holes have been completed from the three current drill pads with assay results expected in the near term. APC-44 and APC-46 are long holes drilled in westerly direction with continuous visual mineralization of up to 425 metres. APC-41, APC-42 and APC-45 are shorter holes designed to test the contact zones between breccia and porphyry in potentially higher-grade areas. APC-47 is an exploratory hole drilled to the east from Pad 4. Assay results are expected in the near term.

The Company presently has three diamond drill rigs operating at the Apollo project and additional assay results are expected in the near term.

The Apollo target area, as defined to date by surface mapping, rock sampling and copper and molybdenum soil geochemistry, covers a 1,000 metres X 1,200 metres area, and represents a large and unusually high-grade Cu-Ag-Au porphyry system. Mineralization styles include early-stage porphyry veins, inter-mineral breccia mineralization and multiple zones of porphyry related late stage, sheeted, carbonate-base metal veins with high gold and silver grades. The Apollo target area is still expanding as the Company's geologists have found multiple additional outcrop areas with porphyry veining, breccia, and late stage, sheeted, carbonate base metal veins.

Table 1: Assay Results for Sampling Undertaken on Targets 1 to 6 in the Apollo Target Area

Target # Sample

Type Au (g/t) Ag (g/t) Cu (ppm) Target 1 Rock 0.43 0.2 90.1 Target 1 Rock 0.34 0.2 104.8 Target 1 Rock 0.88 1.8 154.0 Target 1 Rock 0.91 0.6 121.1 Target 1 Rock 1.13 6.6 224.3 Target 2 Rock 1.51 10.3 71.8 Target 2 Rock 7.06 46.6 146.0 Target 2 Rock 4.10 78.0 254.0 Target 2 Rock 4.55 19.8 309.0 Target 2 Rock 8.29 345.6 424.5 Target 2 Rock 6.55 217.2 362.0 Target 3 Rock 0.18 3.4 155.9 Target 3 Soil 0.43 67.7 43.0 Target 3 Soil 0.63 2.2 277.0 Target 4 Rock 2.97 35.6 322.9 Target 4 Soil 0.90 1.3 131.1 Target 4 Soil 2.88 56.0 198.2 Target 4 Soil 4.31 1.2 124.6 Target 4 Rock 1.28 27.9 186.5 Target 5 Rock 5.59 57.5 833.1 Target 5 Rock 2.70 69.7 539.6 Target 5 Rock 2.41 32.7 507.7 Target 5 Soil 0.56 5.6 477.0 Target 6 Rock 0.60 19.8 1410.0 Target 6 Rock 0.39 15.8 217.3 Target 6 Rock 0.95 16.4 41.9 Target 6 Rock 0.65 6.0 31.5 Target 6 Rock 1.07 13.1 132.3

Note: The values on the table correspond to rock chip and soil samples and should not be relied upon as being representative of average grades anticipated in any future resource estimate or mining scenario. Sample grades are uncapped and do not represent true width of the mineralization. Rock and Soil samples have been prepared and analyzed at SGS laboratory facilities in Medellin, Colombia and Lima, Peru. Blanks, duplicates, and certified reference standards are inserted into the sample stream to monitor laboratory performance. Crush rejects and pulps are kept and stored in a secured storage facility for future assay verification. No capping has been applied to sample composites. The Company utilizes a rigorous, industry-standard QA/QC program.

Figure 1: Location and Assay Results of Rock and Soil Samples Taken From the Six Newly Generated Porphyry and Related Style Targets Surrounding the Apollo System (CNW Group/Collective Mining Ltd.)

Figure 2: Plan View of the Guayabales Project Highlighting the Apollo Target Area (CNW Group/Collective Mining Ltd.)

Figure 3: Angular and Crackle Breccia in Target 6 (CNW Group/Collective Mining Ltd.)

About Collective Mining Ltd.

To see our latest corporate presentation and related information, please visit www.collectivemining.com

Founded by the team that developed and sold Continental Gold Inc. to Zijin Mining for approximately $2 billion in enterprise value, Collective Mining is a copper, silver, and gold exploration company with projects in Caldas, Colombia. The Company has options to acquire 100% interests in two projects located directly within an established mining camp with ten fully permitted and operating mines.

The Company's flagship project, Guayabales, is anchored by the Apollo target, which hosts the large-scale, bulk-tonnage and high-grade copper-silver-gold Apollo porphyry system. The Company's near-term objective is to drill the shallow portion of the porphyry system while continuing to expansion the overall dimensions of the system, which remains open in all directions.

Management, insiders and close family and friends own nearly 45% of the outstanding shares of the Company and as a result, are fully aligned with shareholders. The Company is listed on the TSXV under the trading symbol "CNL" and on the OTCQX under the trading symbol "CNLMF".

Qualified Person (QP) and NI43-101 Disclosure

David J Reading is the designated Qualified Person for this news release within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101 ("NI 43-101") and has reviewed and verified that the technical information contained herein is accurate and approves of the written disclosure of same. Mr. Reading has an MSc in Economic Geology and is a Fellow of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining and of the Society of Economic Geology (SEG).

Technical Information

Rock, soils and core samples have been prepared and analyzed at SGS laboratory facilities in Medellin, Colombia and Lima, Peru. Blanks, duplicates, and certified reference standards are inserted into the sample stream to monitor laboratory performance. Crush rejects and pulps are kept and stored in a secured storage facility for future assay verification. No capping has been applied to sample composites. The Company utilizes a rigorous, industry-standard QA/QC program.

Information Contact:

Follow Executive Chairman Ari Sussman (@Ariski) and Collective Mining (@CollectiveMini1) on Twitter.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This news release contains certain forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, statements about the drill programs, including timing of results, and Collective's future and intentions. Wherever possible, words such as "may", "will", "should", "could", "expect", "plan", "intend", "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "predict" or "potential" or the negative or other variations of these words, or similar words or phrases, have been used to identify these forward-looking statements. These statements reflect management's current beliefs and are based on information currently available to management as at the date hereof.

Forward-looking statements involve significant risk, uncertainties, and assumptions. Many factors could cause actual results, performance, or achievements to differ materially from the results discussed or implied in the forward-looking statements. These factors should be considered carefully, and readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are based upon what management believes to be reasonable assumptions, Collective cannot assure readers that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release, and Collective assumes no obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances, except as required by law.

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 news release.

Collective Mining Logo (CNW Group/Collective Mining Ltd.)

SOURCE Collective Mining Ltd.

Cision

View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/April2023/18/c9383.html
Rome celebrates 78th Festa della Liberazione in 2023.

Italy on 25 April celebrates the Festa della Liberazione which marks the countrys liberation from German occupation and fascist rule at the end of world war two.

A public holiday across Italy, all state schools and offices are closed on Tuesday 25 April, with many Italians planning a "ponte" long weekend by taking Monday 24 April off work.

The day is marked in Rome with a ceremony at the Altare della Patria at 09.00 when Italian president Sergio Mattarella will lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

The event will result in traffic diversions and bus detours in the area around Piazza Venezia.

Also in Rome, at 08.30 supporters of ANPI, the National Partisan Association of Italy, will pay homage to the victims of the massacre at the Fosse Ardeatine where the Nazis murdered 335 anti-fascist prisoners, Jews and civilians on 23 March 1944.

This solemn event is followed at 10.00 with a walk from Largo Benedetto Bompiani, in the Ardeatino / Tor Marancia area, to Piazza di Porta S. Paolo by the Piramide Cestia landmark.

Italy's state-run museums and archaeological sites will be open to the public for free on 25 April, the country's culture minister announced last week.

This year Rome will celebrate the Italian Resistance with a three-day festival in the Garbatella district, backed by the capital's centre-left mayor Roberto Gualtieri, from 23-25 April.

Last year Gualtieri marked the Festa della Liberazione by visiting the Historic Museum of the Liberation of Rome, a former SS prison which documents the persecution of Jews and Resistance figures tortured there during the Nazi occupation of Rome from 1943-1944.
JJ4 won stay of execution in recent days.

A female bear that killed a jogger in a mountain area of Italy's northern Trentino province on 5 April was captured in a culvert trap by forestry officials on Monday night.

The 17-year-old bear, known to authorities as JJ4, is to be transferred to a wildlife facility in Castellar, according to Italian news reports.

The region's president Maurizio Fugatti had ordered that the bear be caught and killed however the culling order was suspended by courts until 11 May following an appeal by animal rights groups.

"If the court rules in our favour, the bear will be killed," Fugatti told reporters on Tuesday.

Andrea Papi, 26, was attacked and killed by the bear as he was jogging on Mount Peller near his home in the town of Caldes.

He was the first human to be killed by a bear in Italy since the wild animals were reintroduced in Trentino from Slovenia in 1999 as part of the Life Ursus project.

JJ4 was identified after DNA tests were carried out on a bloodied tree branch believed to have been used by Papi in an attempt to defend himself in the attack.

This is the second stay of execution for JJ4 after courts overruled Fugatti's order to kill the animal in 2020 after it attacked a father and son hiking in the same area.

Photo RAI News
Jonathan was one of Rome's colourful characters.

Nino Medros, best known as the owner of the extravagant Jonathan's Angels bar in the historic centre of Rome, died on Monday at the age of 83.

Synonymous with Roman nightlife in the streets around Piazza Navona, Medros was a colourful character known as Jonathan il pittore (Jonathan the painter).

Originally from Sardinia, Medros is best associated with Jonathan's Angels (later known as Mons), a unique cocktail bar on Via della Fossa near Piazza del Fico.

He decorated the landmark bar in an eclectic style with paintings and mirrors, in a homage to kitsch and pop art, with guests stunned to find a fountain in the bathroom.

Jonathan made a name for himself as one of the painters in Piazza Navona before launching the bar that brought him fame.

He was also an acrobat and stunt performer and made cameo appearances in numerous films.

Most recently he appeared in a documentary about the depopulation of Rome's historic centre.

News of Jonathan's death posted on the Facebook page 'Ventanni di Roma by Night' sparked hundreds of comments, many of which hailed him as a "legendary" figure who presided over countless "unforgettable nights".

Photo Corriere della Sera
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TAIPEI, Taiwan  The United States Navy has sailed a warship through the Taiwan Strait in its first known transit since China carried out an encirclement exercise around self-ruled Taiwan. The U.S. 7th Fleet said the transit through the strait by the USS Milius on Sunday was routine. The cruisers transited through a corridor in the Strait that is beyond the territorial sea of any coastal State, the statement said.

Last week China concluded large-scale air and sea drills in the strait in retaliation for Taiwans President Tsai Ing-wen meeting with U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy on April 5 in California. China said Wednesday that the exercises simulating an encirclement of Taiwan were intended as a serious warning to pro-independence politicians on the self-governing island and their foreign supporters.

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China protested the transit Monday, saying the U.S. transit was a public hype and that the Eastern Theater Command was ready at any time to resolutely safeguard the countrys sovereignty, safety, and regional peace and stability, according to a statement from the Eastern Theater Commands spokesperson Shi Yilu.

China has stepped up its military pressure over Taiwan in recent years, sending fighter jets and navy vessels towards the island on a near-daily basis. After former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan last August, China sent more and more military vessels over the midline of the Taiwan Strait, an unofficial boundary that had been accepted for decades. That increasing pressure from China has given greater attention to Taiwan globally.

Visiting French lawmaker Eric Bothorel, who arrived in Taipei on Monday, said that the world is watching.

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What we want to say to Taiwan is if something happens to Taiwan, it will change the world, Bothorel told reporters. That is the reason why we have, for instance, a military ship from France, in the China Sea last week. We consider that we have to preserve the freedom of traveling, of moving in this space.

Taiwans military confirmed a French navy vessel had transited the middle of the Taiwan Strait last week. However, it did not elicit a public protest by the Chinese military.

China earlier had sanctioned the organizations involved with Tsais visit in the U.S., including the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, where her meeting with McCarthy and other members of Congress were held. It also sanctioned U.S. Rep. Michael McCaul, the Texas Republican who chairs the chambers Foreign Affairs Committee, for visiting Taiwan.

On Sunday, China launched a rocket carrying a satellite that dropped debris into waters north of the capital Taipei. While the satellite launch had no obvious military purpose, it disrupted travel, delaying flights.

___

AP videojournalist Taijing Wu contributed to this report.

Find more AP coverage of the Asia-Pacific region at https://apnews.com/hub/asia-pacific

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Former fisherman enjoys new role as volunteer river patroller

People's Daily Online) 15:39, April 17, 2023

Li Guozhong, a 56-year-old man who has been a fisherman for half of his life, now takes great pleasure in protecting the ecological environment of the lake he used to fish in.

Li Guozhong patrols Hengshui Lake, a national nature reserve in Hengshui city, north China's Hebei Province. (Photo/China Media Group)

By 9 a.m. everyday, Li has already finished walking along the 7 kilometer-long bank of Hengshui Lake, a national nature reserve in Hengshui city, north China's Hebei Province. He walks along the bank of the river at least twice a day to observe what's happening on the surface of the water.

After observing the lake on land, Li paddles a boat to patrol the lake. He scrutinizes the lake area while paddling his boat. During the patrol, he rescues birds accidentally trapped in such devices as fishing nets and fish cages.

"We make patrols to investigate vegetation and birds in the area, because birds build their nests in plants and all the reeds and soil here are their home. We are irrigating the beauty of the natural environment with our sweat," Li said.

Li lives near Hengshui Lake. He said that as he walks along the lake bank to patrol the lake in the rays of the rising sun and amid the happy songs of various species of birds, he feels more energetic than at any other time of the day.

Birds fly over Hengshui Lake, a national nature reserve in Hengshui city, north China's Hebei Province. (Photo/China Media Group)

Before joining the team of volunteer river patrollers, Li was one of the local fishermen who relied on the Hengshui Lake for a living. By catching fish by various methods, including using fishing nets and electric devices, and engaging in pen culture, they expected to lead a better life.

For a long time, there were often hundreds of fishing boats on Hengshui Lake, which is considered "the most beautiful wetlands" in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region.

But as time went on, Li and his fellow fishermen found it more and more difficult to increase their income by fishing in the lake, as the lake water got muddy and there were fewer fish in the lake, and even the number of birds inhabiting the lake area declined significantly.

The environmental degradation made Li start thinking about what he could do to help improve the situation of the lake.

Li Guozhong records information about Hengshui Lake, a national nature reserve in Hengshui city, north China's Hebei Province, after patrolling the lake area. (Photo/China Media Group)

In 2017, when the comprehensive law enforcement bureau of the Lakeside New Area, by which the Hengshui Lake is administered, recruited volunteer patrollers for the lake, Li signed up without hesitation.

Over the past six years, he has recorded relevant information about his patrol everyday, and witnessed how the water quality of the lake was raised from below Grade V in China's five-tier water quality system to Grade III as the lake ecosystem improves daily.

As the water became clear, the populations of fish and shrimp in the lake have also grown, and more and more birds have been attracted to the area.

Li Guozhong paddles his boat to patrol Hengshui Lake, a national nature reserve in Hengshui city, north China's Hebei Province. (Photo/China Media Group)

Today, Hengshui Lake is not only inhabited by Baer's pochard, a globally endangered species under national first-class protection in China, but also flocks of herons and egrets. A total of 333 species of birds and 757 species of insects have been spotted in the lake area, thanks to the local government's efforts to enhance protection for the lake as well as the hard work of selfless lake patrollers like Li.

Although the task of patrolling the lake is lonely and time-consuming, Li said he will stick to it and will never give up.

"We should protect our lucid waters and blue skies to let the future generations enjoy the beautiful environment we try to preserve. I will tell everything I know about environmental protection to my family and children, and encourage everyone I know to jointly protect the Hengshui Lake," Li said.

Photo shows a garden expo park near Hengshui Lake, a national nature reserve in Hengshui city, north China's Hebei Province. (Photo/China Media Group)

(Web editor: Hongyu, Du Mingming)
Comcast CMCSA recently announced plans to invest $4.5 million in the expansion of high-speed Xfinity 10G network to rural communities of Planada in Merced County, California.



As part of Comcasts $1-billion commitment through Project UP, it distributed grants and donations to various NGOs and expanded its network to rural homes and businesses in Preston, Berkeley, Merced, Hancock, Mineral, Monongalia and Ohio counties.



The expansion and investments made by Comcast will guide residents and businesses toward rural economic development and increase digital equity.



Apart from Xfinity, Comcast offers a suite of connectivity, communications, networking, cybersecurity, wireless and managed solutions to help small- and mid-sized businesses prepare for the future.

Comcast Corporation Price and Consensus

Comcast Corporation Price and Consensus

Comcast Corporation price-consensus-chart | Comcast Corporation Quote

Comcast Leveraging on Xfinity 10G Network to Aid Top Line

In December 2022, Comcast announced its next-generation Xfinity 10G network based on DOCSIS 4.0 technology. The network delivers three times faster broadband speeds, unprecedented coverage, reliable connection and ultra-low latency.



Comcast successfully gained approximately one billion Xfinity customers using their network and more than 10 million internet-only customers taking gigabit speed products and consuming an average of 700 GB of data each month.



In March 2023, Comcast announced its Xfinity 10G network expansion to serve more rural communities in Oregon, Washington and Colorado.



In February 2023, Comcast announced its expansion with the next-generation Xfinity 10G network across several southeast Texas counties.

Comcast Gaining Traction Amid Stiff Competition

Shares of Comcast have risen 9% year to date compared with the Zacks Consumer Discretionary sectors increase of 10.2% in the same time frame.



The recent underperformance in Comcasts shares reflects slowing broadband and customer relationships primarily due to stiff competition in communication and streaming business, challenging macroeconomic conditions, and continued low household move levels.



Cable Communications and digital streaming prospects are suffering due to stiff competition from players like Verizon Communications VZ, AT&T T and Netflix NFLX.



Shares of Verizon, AT&T and Netflix have risen 0.1%, 7.5% and 12.8% year-to-date, respectively.



Verizons Fios and AT&Ts Fiber continue to capture a larger market share by expanding fiber-based network infrastructure in many of Comcasts service areas. The availability of low-cost internet service by Verizon and AT&T also impact the demand of Comcasts broadband service.



DTC streaming and OTT service providers like Netflix offer online streaming and downloading of content which causes viewers to switch over from cable and television networks and gives stiff competition in capturing paid subscribers on Comcasts Peacock.



This Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) company expects its media and ad revenues to decline reflected by a decrease in television viewership. The decline is primarily due to a competitive environment and shifting of video consumption patterns. You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.



The Zacks Consensus Estimate for fiscal first quarter revenues is pegged at $29.41 billion, indicating a decline in growth of 5.16% from the year-ago quarters reported figure.



The consensus mark for earnings has remained unchanged at 82 cents per share in the past 30 days.

Story continues

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Armed police, put down the knife! Constable Liam Forster says.

Standing across from him in the gutter is 24-year-old tradie Luke Gilbert, holding a knife.

The scene at Shute Harbour Road. Credit: Nine News

As they stand a few metres apart in Airlie Beachs night precinct, Forster pulls out his gun and points it towards Gilbert.

Forster again says: Armed police, put the knife down.
Berlin: Former chancellor Angela Merkel has been honoured with Germanys highest possible accolade in recognition of her near-record 16 years at the helm of the country.

President Frank-Walter Steinmeier bestowed the Grand Cross of the Order of Merit for special achievement on the four-term chancellor, who became only the third ex-leader to receive that level of distinction. The other two were Konrad Adenauer, West Germanys first leader, and Helmut Kohl, who led Germany to reunification.

Former German chancellor Angela Merkel speaks after she received the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany (Verdienstorden der Bundesrepublik Deutschland) from President Frank-Walter Steinmeier. Credit: Getty

For 16 years, you served Germany with ambition, with wisdom, with passion, Steinmeier told Merkel and a group of guests, handpicked by Merkel herself, in his laudatory speech at the presidents residence, Bellevue Palace, in Berlin.

For 16 long years, you worked for freedom and democracy, for our country and the wellbeing of its people. Tirelessly and sometimes to the limits of your physical strength, Steinmeier added.
Yarl, an honour student and all-state band member, mistakenly went to 115th Street. When he rang the bell, Lester came to the door and shot Yarl in the forehead  then shot him again, in the right forearm. Loading Lester told police he lives alone and was scared to death when he saw a black male on the porch and thought someone was trying to break in, according to the probable cause statement. No words were exchanged before the shooting, but afterward, as Yarl got up to run, he heard Lester yell, Dont come around here, the statement said. Yarl ran to multiple homes asking for help before finding someone who would call the police, the statement said.

James Lynch was the neighbour who found Yarl. Lynch didnt immediately respond to an interview request but his wife, Tiffany, in a brief interview confirmed an NBC News report that said Lynch heard shouting and saw Yarl banging on the door of another home. I heard somebody screaming, Help, help, Ive been shot! Lynch, who is white, told NBC. The father of three ran out and found Yarl covered in blood. Lynch checked his pulse and, when another neighbour came out with towels, helped stem the bleeding until paramedics arrived. Protesters march in Kansas City, Missouri, on Sunday to draw attention to the shooting. Credit: AP He just wants the family to know that Ralph wasnt alone, Tiffany Lynch said, adding that the action was typical of her husband. He helps out anyone he can and always has. The shooting outraged many in Kansas City and across the country. Civic and political leaders  including President Joe Biden  demanded justice.

The civil rights attorneys for Yarls family, Ben Crump and Lee Merritt, said in a statement that Biden called the teens family and offered prayers for Ralphs health and for justice. Vice President Kamala Harris wrote on Twitter that no child should ever live in fear of being shot for ringing the wrong doorbell. Andrew Lester, who shot a black teen that approached the wrong house in Kansas City, Missouri. Credit: AP Thompson said on Monday that there was a racial component to the shooting. He did not elaborate. But Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Alexander Higginbotham clarified in an email to The Associated Press on Tuesday that there is not a racial element to the legal charges that were filed. Still, some  including lawyers for Yarls family  pressed the racial dimension of the case. A protest rally was planned for Tuesday afternoon, and several civil rights organisations planned a news conference at the rally site. The police are not treating this case in the same way black people accused of murder are treated, Missouri NAACP President Nimrod Chapel jnr said in a statement. A black suspect would have been in jail.

The assault charge carries a penalty of up to life in prison. Lester also was charged with armed criminal action, which has a penalty range of three to 15 years in prison. It wasnt immediately clear if the US Department of Justice was investigating. Messages left with a spokesman were not immediately returned. Charging Lester with a hate crime would have potentially meant a shorter sentence if hes convicted, experts said. Washington University School of Law Professor Peter Joy said the state hate crime law is used only to enhance low-level felony or misdemeanour charges, taking them no higher than a class-C felony level, with a penalty range of three to 10 years upon conviction.

What the prosecutor did was charge [Lester] with the highest degree of felony they could charge him with, Joy said. Legal experts believe Lesters lawyers will claim self-defence under Missouris Stand Your Ground law. The law allows for use of deadly force if a person is in fear for his or her life. Missouri is among roughly 30 states with such statutes. Trisha Loftis and her daughter Ashlyn, 13, sit outside the house where Yarl was shot several days earlier. Credit: AP Robert Spitzer, a professor emeritus of political science at the State University of New York, Cortland, whose research focuses on gun policy and politics, said the Missouri law provides wide latitude for people to use lethal force. St Louis defence attorney Nina McDonnell agreed. She said prosecutors have a strong case but the Stand Your Ground law defence is a huge hurdle to overcome.
When close to half the companies in the Telecom industry in Singapore have price-to-sales ratios (or "P/S") below 1.7x, you may consider TOTM Technologies Limited (Catalist:42F) as a stock to avoid entirely with its 5.7x P/S ratio. Nonetheless, we'd need to dig a little deeper to determine if there is a rational basis for the highly elevated P/S.

See our latest analysis for TOTM Technologies

How TOTM Technologies Has Been Performing

TOTM Technologies certainly has been doing a great job lately as it's been growing its revenue at a really rapid pace. It seems that many are expecting the strong revenue performance to beat most other companies over the coming period, which has increased investors willingness to pay up for the stock. You'd really hope so, otherwise you're paying a pretty hefty price for no particular reason.

Want the full picture on earnings, revenue and cash flow for the company? Then our free report on TOTM Technologies will help you shine a light on its historical performance.

Is There Enough Revenue Growth Forecasted For TOTM Technologies?

There's an inherent assumption that a company should far outperform the industry for P/S ratios like TOTM Technologies' to be considered reasonable.

Taking a look back first, we see that the company grew revenue by an impressive 223% last year. As a result, it also grew revenue by 8.6% in total over the last three years. Therefore, it's fair to say the revenue growth recently has been respectable for the company.

Comparing that to the industry, which is predicted to deliver 5.9% growth in the next 12 months, the company's momentum is weaker, based on recent medium-term annualised revenue results.

With this in mind, we find it worrying that TOTM Technologies' P/S exceeds that of its industry peers. It seems most investors are ignoring the fairly limited recent growth rates and are hoping for a turnaround in the company's business prospects. There's a good chance existing shareholders are setting themselves up for future disappointment if the P/S falls to levels more in line with recent growth rates.

Story continues

The Final Word

It's argued the price-to-sales ratio is an inferior measure of value within certain industries, but it can be a powerful business sentiment indicator.

The fact that TOTM Technologies currently trades on a higher P/S relative to the industry is an oddity, since its recent three-year growth is lower than the wider industry forecast. When we observe slower-than-industry revenue growth alongside a high P/S ratio, we assume there to be a significant risk of the share price decreasing, which would result in a lower P/S ratio. Unless the recent medium-term conditions improve markedly, it's very challenging to accept these the share price as being reasonable.

Don't forget that there may be other risks. For instance, we've identified 4 warning signs for TOTM Technologies (2 shouldn't be ignored) you should be aware of.

It's important to make sure you look for a great company, not just the first idea you come across. So if growing profitability aligns with your idea of a great company, take a peek at this free list of interesting companies with strong recent earnings growth (and a low P/E).

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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VANCOUVER, BC, April 18, 2023 /CNW/ - Tajiri Resources Corp. (the "Company") (TSXV: TAJ) is pleased to detail historic Diamond, RC, Aircore and RAB drill results, that have not yet been made explicit in past announcements as they pertain to the potential of the K4-K5 prospect. This announcement focuses on drilling at K4 North only, representing approximately 5% of the area of the greater K4-5 prospect, where historic drilling has been most closely spaced but is nonetheless very widely spaced by industry standards having been conducted on a line spacings of mostly 200m 400m & 500m with limited infill at 100m line spacings.

Tajiri Resources Corp. Logo (CNW Group/Tajiri Resources Corp.)

The headlined shallow drill intercepts (almost all above 60m vertical depth) together with recently announced (March 7, 2023) saprolite auger results and extensive bedrock artisanal workings demonstrate the excellent potential for K4 North Prospect to host a very substantial gold deposit, amenable to open pit mining. The potential for the prospect to also host significant higher grades pods as evidenced by the numerous >4g/t drill intercepts over widths of 3-12m1 is also considered to be high. It is important to note that historic drilling was conducted distal to the large area of artisanal bedrock workings that span some ~ 600 x 300m at K4 North and as such drilling, despite returning handsome results, has only possibly tested areas of lessor gold mineralisation.

Location of the Reo Project and K4-5 and K4 North Prospects are shown in Figure 1. The location of the K4-North Prospect within the larger K4 Prospect (North, South and West) along with potential interpreted mineralised envelopes of interpreted fold-controlled mineralisation as shown in our March 7th 2023 press release are shown in Figure 2. Significant gold drill intercepts from K4 North are listed in Table I and shown in Figures 3 & 4.

A cross section of selected drill results, along with coincident IP results is presented in Figure 5 which demonstrates that gold mineralisation occurs in several composite zones of up to 100 metres apparent width comprised of several zones each of several tens of metres apparent widths. True width remains to be ascertained through further work.

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Significant Artisanal Workings at K4 North

The area of bedrock artisanal shafts at K4 North is large and covers an impressive area of ~ 64,000 m2 (Figures 3, & 7) These workings are substantial, forming in their own right, about 1/5th of the known bedrock workings (308,000m2) within the larger K4 prospect. As such workings at K4 North compare favourably in scale to workings known to overly other large (4-7Moz) West African gold deposits (as detailed in our March 7 press release).

Furthermore, as noted in that press release and exemplified in Figures 6, 7 & 8 areas of artisanal bedrock workings closely correlate with the known extent of economic mineralisation at numerous other West African gold deposits and where no other data is available bedrock shaft workings can serve as a very good indicator of the potential scale of a deposit. In fact a general trend is for the area of artisanal bedrock workings to mostly under represent areas of drilled resources as evident at Kiaka and Namdini (Figures 7 and 8).

Beyond the absolute scale of the workings at K4 North several other features of the workings appear to indicate an excellent chance for hitherto untested mineralisation to underly the workings.

1) Artisanal mining at K4 North has been near continuous for a period of 13 years 2010-present.



2) The K4 North shafts go deep up to 45m indicative of higher grades worth mining at depth for the artisanal miners.



3) Artisanal bedrock workings are embedded in a much larger area of surface lateritic scrapes (Figures 9 & 10), which are about an order of magnitude greater than the bedrock workings. At other artisanal workings in West Africa bedrock workings with a small dispersion halo of surface lateritic workings tend to be associated with lower grade deposits e.g. Kiaka, Namdini, M5 (Figures 6, 7 & 8) while higher grade deposits such as M1 South (Figure 6) tend to be associated with extensive areas of surface scrapes much larger than contained bedrock workings. This is interpreted as possibly a result of coarse gold being more abundant within higher grade deposits and subsequently upon weathering forming broader deflation lags amenable to crude wind winnowing methods of gold recovery, than formed by lower grade deposits.



4) The immediate area surrounding the K4-North artisanal bedrock saprolite shafts was mechanically excavated to depths of between 3-10m representing an estimated 750,000-1,000,000 tonnes of material moved (Figure 11). Initially the immediate area was subject to hand excavated pits, scrapes and shallow shafts, but later between 2012 and 2016 the area was mechanically mined by an organised syndicate of artisanal miners, who trucked the material to nearby watercourses where it was processed through sluice boxes. To the Company's knowledge this was the only artisanal operation in Burkina where colluvial material was trucked for remote processing. It may therefore be inferred that the colluvium in the immediate vicinity of the K4 North artisanal shafts was particularly rich in gold to warrant such unique treatment.



5) Due to the excavation of the colluvial pit. Mining since 2016 has only proceed during the dry season as during the wet season the colluvial pit floods. Consequently, many of the previous season's shafts collapse and must be re-excavated. Again, we infer this as positive for potential mineralisation as the additional work required to renovate workings on an annual basis, suggests that the K4 North mineralisation is worth the exceptional effort by the artisanal miners.

In form, the K4 North bedrock workings do not follow a linear "shear hosted" disposition, but a sinuous contorted form that strongly suggests mineralisation is localised within fold noses and is of substantial scale (Figures 11 & 12). Fold axes are interpreted to be NNW striking and the largest central fold closure evident in the workings some 120m wide with a strike length of 330m metres (Figure 12).

As such the form of workings is strongly supportive of the Company's poly folded interpretation of mineralisation within the wider K4-K5 system and a comparison of the form of the K4-North and K4 South Artisanal workings with the form of bodies at the fold hosted Homestake deposit is shown in Figure 14.

Details of Historic Drilling

At K4 North drilling has been conducted as follows:

1) Northwest oriented lines of air-core drilling to fresh rock. Lines of this orientation were spaced 500m apart and drill holes were collared along lines at between 80-150m apart  as such this drilling exhibits large gaps between and along lines. Aircore drill holes were assayed as 4 metre composites with selected intervals re-assayed at one metre. 2) RAB drilling on North South lines spaced 100-400m apart. Along lines RAB drilling was conducted on an irregular spacing with each successive collar along a line located above the bottom of the preceding hole and thus in theory giving horizontal coverage for any vertically dipping mineralisation. RAB holes on alternate lines were either all drilled to the south or all drilled to the north. RAB drill holes were terminated at blade refusal, for the most part being the oxide/fresh rock interface. 3) Selective RC and Diamond drilling to follow-up better RAB and air-core intersections. All holes were drilled on a N-S azimuth with 2-5 holes testing a zone and spaced at 20-40m between collars. Most RC holes were drilled to depths of 60-100m while the deepest diamond hole was drilled to a depth of 190m at a -60 inclination. 4) All assays were by fire assay with either a 30 or 50gram charge.

Interpretation

Given the wide spaced drilling conducted to date it is not possible to give a definitive interpretation of the form of mineralisation represented by drill intercepts and interpretation remains highly speculative. However, as a work around a range of possible interpretations may be given with mineralisation intersected by drilling along with areas of bedrock artisanal workings utilising varying orientations and degrees of inferred continuity to arrive at a target size range.

The Company illustrates 6 possible interpretations in Figure 13 and note that the surface area of drilled and bedrock working mineralisation ranges from ~79,000 m2 to 195,800m2, the lowest area being a conservative interpretation which infers little continuity between drill intersections and the largest area inferring near continuous zones of mineralisation. Assuming a down dip continuity of 200m, average depth to fresh rock of 60m (average supported by drilling) and SGs of 1.7 and 2.65 for oxide and fresh rock respectively gives "back of the envelope" target tonnages of between 37 - 93 million tonnes for K4 North.

We however do caution that such a target tonnage remains highly speculative, with depth continuity of mineralisation being the largest unknown.

Next Exploration Steps

The company considers the following step warranted to progress exploration at K4 North:

1) Further close spaced auger drilling at K4 North on a 25 x 100m grid, with lines-oriented NE-SW, with selected areas around known drill intercepts at 12.5 x 12.5m and 25 x25m grids to define surface continuity and orientation of mineralisation between drill holes and workings. 2) Excavation of several trenches and small 10 x10m - 20 x 20m panel pits directly over areas of bedrock workings for structural mapping and detailed sampling. 3) Oriented diamond drilling ~ 3,000-4,000m to transect both drilled mineralisation and bed rock artisanal workings to gather structural information regarding the 3dimensional orientation of mineralisation.

Chairman's comments

We are pleased to note that K4 North represents a first-rate gold target with initial drilling having returned excellent results over substantial widths that are open and clearly part of a much larger system. The system is at an early stage of understanding and as such the company looks forward now to rapidly progressing exploration towards ultimately defining what could be a very substantial gold deposit.

Qualified Person

The Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects for this news release is Dominic O'Sullivan a geologist, member of the AusIMM, Executive Chairman of Tajiri who has reviewed and approved its contents.

On Behalf of the Board,

Tajiri Resources Corp.

Graham Keevil,

President & CEO

About Tajiri

Tajiri Resources Corp. is a junior gold exploration and development Company with exploration assets located in two of the worlds least explored and highly prolific greenstone belts of Burkina Faso, West Africa and Guyana, South America. Lead by a team of industry professionals with a combined 100 plus years' experience the Company continues to generate shareholder value through exploration.

_____________________________________

1 In the K4 North Area there are 9 intercepts better than 3m and better than 4g/t with average width and grade of 5.9m @ 6.4g/t

SOURCE Tajiri Resources Corp.

Cision

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New growth-focused CEO set to build upon company's momentum, achieve next level of success while enabling DevSecOps teams to leverage Shift Smart approach to software development

LOS ALTOS, Calif., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Contrast Security (Contrast), the code security platform built for developers and trusted by security, today announced the appointment of Rick Fitz as the company's new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Fitz's deep software development expertise and proven track record of scaling businesses will enable him to lead the company into its next growth phase while attaining new market leadership. Outgoing CEO Alan Naumann will remain on the company's board as an advisor and will serve as President while helping Fitz quickly ramp into the CEO role.

Contrast Security Logo (PRNewsfoto/Contrast Security)

"Application Security Testing (AST) is a fragmented market where organizations use various approaches to find and eliminate vulnerabilities in their software architectures. It lacks innovation, which leaves the development teams frustrated and enterprises exposed," said Fitz. "My background enables me to understand the value of inspecting an application from the inside out, which is why I believe Contrast's unique Shift Smart approach will redefine the market. I decided to join Contrast because it has a solid foundation of products and an amazing team. Together, we will help software-driven companies take full advantage of the application economy by getting secure code moving across their complete Software Development Life Cycle [SDLC] with a unified platform."

Prior to joining Contrast, Fitz served as Senior Vice President and General Manager of Splunk's IT Operations & Application Development Market Group, where he helped lead the company through multiple acquisitions, launch innovative products, develop new capabilities and generate unique go-to-market strategies.

"As one of Contrast's early investors, Battery is thrilled to welcome Rick as the company's new CEO," said Dharmesh Thakker, a Battery Ventures general partner and investor in early- and growth-stage companies in the next-generation, enterprise applications market. "Rick's previous experience scaling large software companies, notably at Splunk, will help him lead Contrast as it continues to build cutting-edge solutions to help organizations defend against growing and increasingly complex application-security threats."

Story continues

Naumann, who served as Contrast's President and CEO since 2016, led the company through multiple funding rounds, including a $150M Series E funding in November 2021. Under Naumann's leadership, Contrast was acknowledged by CB Insights as a unicorn company within the cybersecurity sector and was named a JMP Securities Cyber 66 Company .

"I am excited to pass the baton to Rick because he is known to deliver business outcomes [and to] build lasting relationships. He cares deeply about customers' success and leads with a transparent and collaborative management style," Naumann said. "Rick's background in business-to-business [B2B] enterprise technology provides him a clear understanding of our market and will help pave the way for new business growth."

Fitz and other Contrast executives will be available for meetings at RSAC Conference 2023 at the Contrast booth at #2251 in the South Expo Hall of Moscone Center in San Francisco between Monday, April 24 to Thursday, April 27.

About Contrast Security (Contrast):

A world-leading code security platform company purposely built for developers to get secure code moving swiftly and trusted by security teams to protect business applications. Developers, security and operations teams quickly secure code across the complete Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) with Contrast to protect against today's targeted Application Security (AppSec) attacks.

Founded in 2014 by cybersecurity industry veterans, Contrast was established to replace legacy AppSec solutions that cannot protect modern enterprises. With today's pressures to develop business applications at increasingly rapid paces, the Contrast Secure Code Platform defends and protects against full classes of Common Vulnerabilities and Exposure (CVEs). This allows security teams to avoid spending time focusing on false positives so as to remediate true vulnerabilities faster. Contrast's platform solutions for code assessment, testing, protection, serverless, supply chain, application programming interfaces (APIs) and languages help enterprises achieve true DevSecOps transformation and compliance.

Contrast protects against major cybersecurity attacks for its customer base, which represents some of the largest brand-name companies in the world, including BMW, AXA, Zurich, NTT, Sompo Japan and The American Red Cross, as well as numerous other leading global Fortune 500 enterprises. Contrast partners with global organizations such as AWS, Microsoft, IBM, GuidePoint Security, Trace3, Deloitte and Carahsoft, to seamlessly integrate and achieve the highest level of security for customers.

The growing demand for the world's only platform for code security has landed the company on some of the most prestigious lists, including the Inc. 5000 List of America's Fastest-Growing Companies and the Deloitte Technology Fast 500 List of fastest-growing companies.

Learn more: https://www.contrastsecurity.com/

Follow us: Blog | Twitter | LinkedIn | Facebook

Media Contact:

Laura Asendio

Public Relations Manager

Contrast Security

pr@contrastsecurity.com

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SOURCE Contrast Security
Weber State LGBTQ+ graduates to be honored at formal Lavender Graduation

April 18, 2023

OGDEN, Utah  Weber State Universitys LGBT Resource Center will honor LGBTQ+ graduates with its first formal Lavender Graduation celebration April 19.

Lavender Graduation will be held 12:302 p.m. in the Shepherd Union, Skyroom 404. Graduates can pick up a rainbow tassel and enjoy lunch with presentations about the history of lavender graduations and reading of graduate names.

Its a great event to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community that we have here at Weber State and the community that supports them, said Katelyn Blanch, LGBT Resource Center administrative assistant. Our LGBTQ+ students are very passionate and have put in a lot of work, and theyve been underrepresented for so long.

Lavender graduations began in 1995 at the University of Michigan after lesbian speaker and author Ronni Sanlo was denied access to her childrens graduations due to her sexual orientation. The tradition has now expanded to hundreds of universities across the country.

Weber State has hosted informal lavender graduations in previous years, but the LGBT Resource Center plans to make it an official part of WSUs affinity graduation programs going forward.

Affinity graduation ceremonies provide opportunities for underrepresented students to connect and celebrate their communities prior to main commencement, and often provide special cords and tassels for graduates to wear during the larger ceremony.

We want to make Lavender Graduation a staple of the LGBT Resource Center, Blanch said. Its really cool to walk with your rainbow stole or tassel. It meant a lot to me when I was a student.

Lavender Graduation attendees can RSVP for the event on the resource center website.

Weber State has several other affinity graduations that celebrate the universitys diverse communities. Upcoming graduation ceremonies include:

April 19

2nd Annual Pacific Islander Graduation Celebration

68 p.m. in the Shepherd Union Ballroom, Ogden campus



April 20

WSU Ballet Folklorico Graduation Ceremony

67:30 p.m. in the Wildcat Theater, Ogden campus



April 22

LatinX Graduation Ceremony

122 p.m. in the Austad Theater in the Val A. Browning Center, Ogden campus



April 25

African Diaspora Graduation

68 p.m. at the WSU Lindquist Alumni Center in Dumke Hall, Ogden campus



April 27

Native American Graduation Celebration

5 p.m. at WSU Davis, Building 3

To register for specific ceremonies, visit Weber States Cultural Center website.



Weber States spring 2023 commencement and convocation ceremonies begin at 8:30 a.m. April 28 at the Dee Events Center.
By Chris Prentice

NEW YORK (Reuters) - A committee of U.S. lawmakers on Tuesday said troubled Swiss bank Credit Suisse Group hampered a multiyear investigation into the servicing of Nazi clients and Nazi-linked accounts.

Credit Suisse commissioned an investigation into allegations levied by a human rights organization that the bank held potential Nazi-linked accounts and failed to disclose them, even during Holocaust-related probes decades earlier. A Senate committee's recent investigation into the matter found the bank hindered the probe and "inexplicably terminated" an independent reviewer overseeing it.

The "information we've obtained shows the bank established an unnecessarily rigid and narrow scope, and refused to follow new leads uncovered during the course of the review," Republican Senator Chuck Grassley, the ranking member of the Senate Budget Committee, said in a statement.

Credit Suisse defended its internal review in a statement, saying that the probe turned up no evidence to support key claims from the Simon Wiesenthal Center that dormant accounts serviced by Credit Suisse held assets from Holocaust victims.

A representative for AlixPartners, the consulting firm Credit Suisse hired for the probe, did not respond immediately to a request for comment.

But the Senate committee said more work needs to be done to track down the value of assets of certain accounts held by Nazis at the bank in the post-1945 period.

The committee said in a statement it had opened its own investigation after receiving "credible allegations of potential wrongdoing" related to the internal probe, including the termination of the ombudsman overseeing it.

A spokesperson for the ombudsman, Neil Barofsky, declined to comment. His report, which the committee obtained via a subpoena, found many questions were left "unanswered" after Credit Suisse decided to halt the review.

(Reporting by Chris Prentice; editing by Jonathan Oatis)
Festivals  Rajasthan Festivals  Mewar Festival

Mewar Festival

Time: April

Significance: Spring Festival

Date: 4.4.2022 - 6.4.2022

Mewar is celebrated in the beautiful city of Udaipur, Rajasthan to welcome spring. It coincides with the festival of Gangaur celebrated all over Rajasthan and has a unique charm about it. The festival is very significant for women. It is a time for them to dress up in their best clothes and participate in the festival. The main highlight of the festival is the procession of colorfully attired women carrying images of the Goddess Gauri ( Parvathi ) to the gangaur ghat of Lake Pichola.

Festivities include joyous singing, dancing, devotional music concerts and firework displays. Once the religious part of the festival is over, it is time for cultural events where Rajasthani culture is portrayed through songs, dances and other programmes. The festival culminates with an impressive fireworks display. A procession of boats in the lake starting from the lake palace offers a fitting finale to this splendid celebration.



How to get there :

Air: Nearest Airport, the Dabok Airport, 21 kms from the city centre.

Rail: Railway has trains from all over the country to Udaipur. The Palace On Wheels covers this magnificent city during its eight day package tour.
A Brampton man faces a criminal charge for allegedly trying to smuggle in three duffel bags filled with cocaine at the Peace Bridge in Fort Erie.

Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and the RCMP issued a joint news release on April 18, saying a commercial truck entered Canada at the Peace Bridge on March 14 and the driver and vehicle were referred for secondary inspection.

During that inspection of the truck trailer, border officers discovered the duffel bags containing bricks of suspected cocaine weighing about 70 kilograms, the agencies said.

A 26-year-old Brampton man was arrested by the CBSA and handed over to the RCMP. Hs is charged with importation of cocaine, contrary to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.

The agencies said the investigation is ongoing and that a court date was set for May 4 at the St. Catharines courthouse.

The safety and security of Canadians is our government's top priority, Public Safety Minister Marco E.L. Mendicino said in the news release. I want to thank the dedicated CBSA and RCMP officers for their excellent work in stopping dangerous narcotics from coming into the country and I look forward to seeing the difference they continue to make in keeping our communities safe.

Kim Upper, director of the CBSA Fort Erie district operations, said the cocaine seizure is the result of hard work and diligence from the CBSA and RCMP who are committed to stopping illegal activity at the border. I am proud of our officers who work hard every day to keep Canadians safe, Upper said.

Supt. Rae Bolsterli with the RCMP Border Integrity program said the seizure means the removal of narcotics from Canadian streets, a loss of revenue for organized crime and criminal charges against the alleged importer. This collaboration demonstrates our continued commitment in working together effectively to disrupt the flow of controlled drugs coming into Canada, he said.

The agencies said people with information about suspicious cross-border activity should contact the CBSA Border Watch Line at 1-888-502-9060.

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Aiming to celebrate and recognize Lincolns Indigenous connections, the town is proposing to rename Jordan Hollow Park to Shoarishon Park.

The park plans were done in consultation with stakeholders and Indigenous organizations, including the Niagara Regional Native Centre and Plenty Canada, a non-profit that facilitates access and shares resources with Indigenous peoples.

If approved by the town, the park  which is located in an area significant to many Indigenous nations and is a part of the treaty and traditional territory of the Anishinaabe, Haudenosaunee, and the Neutral Nation  will offer a chance to highlight its historical and contemporary Indigenous culture.

Sho'arishon is a contemporary spelling of the words Souharissen and Tsohahissen, which were both researched for their connection to current-day Kanien'keha. It translates to "He is shaking a net".

At April 11s committee of whole meeting, Mayor Sandra Easton said the potential renaming could be a tremendous addition to the culture of the Lincoln community and its something everyone should be proud of.

Easton was impressed with the sheer fact that we have been able to interest Indigenous experts in what we are doing here to the point that they're willing to share with us a name that is from their people.

The proposed renaming comes from a consultation with Alyssa General, a Kanien'keha language specialist, archeologist Martin Cooper, and Tim Johnson of Plenty Canada.

According to the Town of Lincoln, naming options were discussed with Indigenous stakeholders, considering relevance, meaning, and significance. Shoarishon Park was returned to a larger group of Indigenous stakeholders for comment and consensus and received full support.

The park's land has significance to the Neutral Nation  Attawandardon  with a multi-generational Neutral burial site dating from the early to the mid-17th century less than half a kilometre away from the park.

The Neutral Nation was an Iroquoian language-speaking group of settled village horticulturalists who spoke a different language  and were named Neutral by French missionaries because of their impartial stance in the conflict between the Huron-Wendat and the Five Nations Haudenosaunee.

Between 1647 and 1651, the Five Nations dispersed and assimilated the Neutral Nation. After this time, documented Neutral Nation existence ceased.

Council staff will be considering the publics feedback regarding the parks new name until May 9, followed by another meeting on May 23 and a final decision should be made by the council on June 19.

Other changes will soon be coming to the park with a selection of two site-specific Indigenous public artworks celebrating the work of contemporary Indigenous artists.

Both sculptures will be installed permanently in the planned art corridor, complementing the existing park upgrade plan. It includes the construction of a longhouse and palisades and a semi-sloping amphitheatre designed by Six Nations-based architecture firm Two Row Architect and landscape architecture firm Adesso Design.

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A Brampton truck driver has been arrested after border officers at the Peace Bridge discovered more than $3 million in cocaine inside the vehicle.

According to the RMCP, a commercial truck crossed the bridge into Fort Erie on March 14 and was referred for secondary examination.

During the inspection of the trailer, Canada Border Services Agency officers discovered three duffel bags containing multiple bricks of cocaine, weighing approximately 70 kilograms.

The cocaine had an estimated street value of more than $3 million.

A 26-year-old Brampton man was arrested and charged with importation of cocaine. He is scheduled to appear in court in May.

The investigation is ongoing by the CBSA and the RCMP.

Our joint effort with the CBSA has led to the removal of narcotics from Canadian streets, a loss of revenue for organized crime, and criminal charges against the importer, RCMP Supt. Rae Bolsterli said in a press release.

This collaboration demonstrates our continued commitment in working together effectively to disrupt the flow of controlled drugs coming into Canada.

Kim Upper, CBSA director of operations in Fort Erie, said the seizure was the result of hard work and diligence from the CBSA and RCMP who are committed to stopping illegal activity at our borders.

Anyone with information on suspicious cross border activity can call the CBSA Border Watch line at 1-888-502-9060.

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Citing an unprecedented attack on heritage by the province, St. Catharines is taking steps to create a potential downtown heritage district in an effort to protect more than 100 buildings.

Council heard Monday that changes to the Ontario Heritage Act under Bill 23 will remove protections at the end of next year for dozens of St. Catharines properties that havent been designated but are believed to have historic value.

The city has 163 listed properties on its register. They all require designation or they will lose their protection until 2030, city heritage planner James Neilson told council.

This is an unprecedented kind of attack on heritage across the province  32,000 properties that are being affected  and were all just trying to figure out how to do this in the best way possible.

The 163 properties on the citys register of non-designated cultural heritage properties are identified as potentially significant but havent gone through a formal heritage study.

Being on the registry means that if the owner of a property wants to demolish or remove a building, the city can pause the request for 60 days while it determines the heritage significance. The outcome of that study can affect whether or not a demolition permit is granted.

Before Bill 23, which came into effect on Jan. 1, properties could remain on the register indefinitely. Now, all registry properties will lose their protected status if not individually designated under the Ontario Heritage Act by the end of 2024.

Properties that are removed from the register cant be re-added for five years.

Neilson said staff have been meeting with heritage planners across the Ontario to try and determine the best way to deal with the changes.

Essentially the question that were asking ourselves is, how do we effectively protect the most buildings in the most efficient way possible? Because two years is not a lot of time.

City staff and the citys heritage advisory committee recommended pursing a downtown heritage conservation district study and plan over other possible options to protect the greatest number of properties.

About two-thirds of the properties on the citys heritage register are located downtown  most added to the list by the last term of council. Staff had planned to add more downtown properties to the register before Bill 23 was introduced.

Given the high concentration of existing and potential heritage buildings located downtown, a heritage district study would allow for the efficient and effective protection of hundreds of properties at once, Neilson said.

Neilson said staff only have the resources to individually designate up to 10 per cent of the 163 properties before the end of 2024. He said if they went that route, about 150 properties or so would lose their heritage protection until 2030 and could be lost in the interim.

Neilson said heritage designation takes a lot of time, research, analysis and can be a challenge to do.

In the last 10 years, St. Catharines has only designated eight buildings.

Council voted 11-2 to spend up to $250,000 from the civic project fund to hire a consultant to complete the downtown heritage conservation district study and plan.

The consultant will analyze the downtown to determine if the area merits designation as a heritage district and will create potential guidelines for property owners. Results will be brought to council to determine if they want to pursue the designation.

Neilson stressed the move will not limit development or put restrictions on all properties.

Its not going to freeze the downtown in perpetuity. This isnt Paris. You know, were not trying to make sure that this looks the exact same forever, Neilson said, adding there will also be public input on the plan.

The goal would be to create a progressive plan and focus on managing change, acknowledging that the downtown is an evolving area.

Port Dalhousie Coun. Bruce Williamson supported the recommendation and said its a defensive manoeuvre the city is being forced to take because of bull in a china shop legislation.

This is this is the kind of thing thats totally unnecessary and angers our taxpayers and local residents, he said.

But Mayor Mat Siscoe, who voted against the staff recommendation but was outnumbered, said he was struggling with the idea that council could be looking at designating properties over the objections of residents.

We have a number of heritage districts within the community, and when people purchase a home in those areas, they know what they are stepping into. But to designate peoples properties without giving them the ability to pull back and away from that designation, I dont think is correct.

Council also passed an amendment from Coun. Carlos Garcia asking that a heritage advisory committee subcommittee be formed to focus exclusively on designations to try and get more done.

It is obvious from the presentation that we essentially need all the help we can get in terms of getting properties designated.

The Progressive Conservative majority government passed Bill 23, the More Homes Built Faster Act, last October with the goal of fast-tracking the construction of 1.5 million homes across Ontario in 10 years.

St. Catharines has five heritage districts already in place in the city  Power Glen, Port Dalhousie, Port Dalhousie commercial core and harbour area, Yates Street and Queen Street.

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TORONTO - Yung Wu has founded, built and invested in at least seven companies, but theres one thing thats not his strong suit: retiring.

The first time the serial entrepreneur retired was in 2007, after the sale of his first company, Castek Inc., to Oracle, but it didnt last. He came out of retirement in 2010 to create NFQ Ventures, which invested in early-stage companies.

After building up and exiting several companies, he retired again in 2015, only to agree to head Mars, a non-profit innovation hub in Toronto dedicated to supporting high-growth start-ups.

On Tuesday, he revealed he will leave his post as chief executive of Mars at the end of the year.

But even Wu isnt confident this will be much of a retirement.

Theres always another company to build, another company to invest into, so I guess what Im saying is I fail miserably at retirement, he told The Canadian Press.

After his Mars departure, he plans to be involved with NFQ Ventures, chairing the Toronto Region Board of Trade and advancing the Coalition of Innovation Leaders Against Racism organization he co-founded.

He said hes not leaving Mars because something is wrong, but because it was always the plan when the incubators chair, Gord Nixon, asked him to take the helm.

I said, Gord, Im not here to keep a job, Im here to do a job. Wu recalled.

You need fresh blood all the time, you need boards to be renewed, you need leadership to be renewed. This is a natural thing.

The Mars Wu will leave behind has changed dramatically from November 2017, the start of what was to be a five-year job he took over from Ilse Treurnicht, who had run venture capital firm Primaxis Technology Ventures.

Treurnicht oversaw Mars as it struggled to build an office and laboratory tower dedicated to biotechnology companies and located south of Queens Park on University Avenue.

As startups balked at the high rents and U.S. developer Alexandria Real Estate looked for a way out of the deal, some $380 million in government loans helped finish the building, which opened ahead of Wus tenure with Facebook and CIBC as tenants.

By then, Canadas tech scene was on the rise. Shopify Inc. had become a unicorn, Twitter had set up an office in the country and venture capital was flowing more plentifully across the border.

Wu bolstered those trends through the Momentum scale-up program, which was designed to support executives of high-growth companies with reaching $100 million in revenue in the next five years, and Mission from Mars, which aimed to speed up adoption of carbon-reducing initiatives.

He also launched Graphite Ventures, a $100-million private sector venture capital fund investing in early-stage companies and orchestrated Mars expansion to a waterfront space this spring.

The efforts cemented Mars as a place where startups could find support, talent and opportunity as they and the broader tech community grew at a rapid pace.

Mars was affiliated with roughly 1,200 startups employing about 6,000 people, when Wu started in the top job, but they have now hit 32,600 workers. Over the last 12 years, Mars-supported ventures contributed $29.6 billion to Canadas GDP and $7.5 billion in tax contributions totaling, a recent economic impact report it commissioned found.

Wu sees the numbers as a sign that Canada has a burgeoning knowledge-based economy stepping up to complement its long-standing resource industries like mining, lumber, oil and gas.

Its not lab experiments anymore, he said.

There are companies that are growing rapidly and theyre growing at 10 times the rate of Canada.

But headwinds prevail.

Tech valuations have been falling for about a year as investors rethink funding efforts amid concerns of a possible recession. Its made drumming up new cash infusions tough for companies and forced some to cut workers.

Job cuts aggregator Layoffs.fyi has counted 170,611 workers who lost their jobs across 589 global tech companies so far this year as valuations settled down from what Wu calls very, very frothy levels amplified by probably the longest bull market in history.

Many are also feeling the fallout from the collapse of the Silicon Valley Bank, a long-time friend to burgeoning companies, which withdrew deposits to stay afloat, leaving the California institution short on capital and forced to sell its bonds at a major loss.

That was a failure by Silicon Valley Bank management, Wu said. Its basically asset management 101 and somebody was asleep at the switch on that.

He insists the fall of the bank was not a commentary on the state of the innovation economy globally, but admits the bank turmoil and shift in valuations mean trouble.

There will be more companies that dont survive this, he said.

But those that do will be mighty, if history has taught Wu anything.

Recessionary times are the times when the most important and impactful companies in tech and in the world are built, he said, prattling off Microsoft, Google, Meta, Electronic Arts, Airbnb and Salesforce as examples.

They were all built during recessionary times.

To keep up the pipeline, he urged policymakers to invest in startup launchpads and funders to open their wallets because the best companies need runway to last through difficult cycles.

He recommends his successor, who Mars has started a search process to name, focus on 10 x, meaning find a way to multiple the funding, talent, opportunities and growth Mars and the countrys tech scene has experienced over his tenure.

My advice to the next CEO is take it, grab it, activate it and make it happen for Canada.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 18, 2023.

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Melissa Chatzimanolakis had been hoping to have her brother out of jail and home by now.

Instead, the 29-year-old attended her siblings funeral earlier this month, days before he was set to have a bail review that could have seen him leave custody.

Anthony Chatzimanolakis, who was charged with vehicle theft and unlawful gun carrying, died of a suspected drug overdose at the Toronto South Detention Centre last month, his family said. He was supposed to have surgery while in custody to treat an old wound but that had been postponed.

His sister is now speaking out to learn more about what happened to him and draw attention to the challenges inmates might face accessing adequate health care behind bars.

We were just waiting for him to come home. And he never got that opportunity, Melissa Chatzimanolakis said in an interview.

If no one speaks out  People are going to keep dying and people arent going to hear about it. Its just going to keep happening.

Anthony Chatzimanolakis, 30, was placed at the Toronto detention centre in September, his sister said. While there, a wound on his torso from a 2019 motorcycle accident began to rupture, causing his intestine to bulge in two places, she said.

He was set to have surgery in November but it was cancelled as the jail could not facilitate the procedure, the familys lawyer said. Among preparations for his bail review was an argument on the importance of him being freed for surgery, his family said.

Melissa Chatzimanolakis said the family heard from inmates at the detention centre that her brother was allegedly acknowledged but ignored while he was in medical distress.

Anthony Chatzimanolakis was found unresponsive in his cell on March 25 and declared dead by suspected drug over dose after 40 minutes of CPR, his sister said.

A spokesperson for the Solicitor General confirmed that an inmate was found unresponsive at the Toronto South Detention Centre on March 25 but did not comment on why Chatzimanolakiss surgery was cancelled or on his treatment at the detention centre.

The ministry cannot provide further details as a number of investigations are underway, Hunter Kell wrote in a statement.

Carmelo Truscello, the familys lawyer, said the death highlights issues with getting inmates appropriate health care and attention from staff in jails.

When tragedies like this occur it speaks to a larger systematic issue that is rooted in poor staffing, he said in a written statement.

More should be done in a proactive effort to ensure our institutions do not fail our citizens in pre-trial custody, where they are entitled to a presumption of innocence.

Advocates say health care for inmates has been a longstanding concern.

Inmates do not get enough support when it comes to addressing drug use and theres inadequate transfer of health records when those in custody are let out of jail, they argue.

Dr. Margaret Hulbert, a co-chair with the Health Providers Against Poverty advocacy group, said general health providers dont have access to inmate health records, which means their prescriptions arent easily carried over once they are released.

Individuals come to the emergency department because theyre in an acute medical or psychiatric crisis, and theres a complete lack of information on them, said Hulbert.

One of the most fatal, egregious health-care outcomes out of jail is how often people overdose partly because you lose your tolerance to opioids so quickly.

Hulbert said the responsibility for Ontario inmates health should be moved from the Solicitor General to the Ministry of Health.

There can be a huge conflict of interest in managing a jail and managing healthcare, she said.

Tracking (In)Justice, a data-tracking project by the Canadian Civil Liberties Association and several Ontario universities, said in a December report that the number of inmate deaths has been rising in recent years.

Fifteen inmates died in Ontario jails in 2010, 25 died in 2019 and 41 died in 2022, it said.

While these numbers are alarming, they are unsurprising to those who have come in contact with Ontarios jails and prisons, Noa Mendelsohn, executive director of the Canadian Civil Liberties Association, wrote in a December letter to the Solicitor General.

Tracking (In)Justice also found Ontarians in custody awaiting a bail hearing are at greater risk of suicide or drug overdose compared to those sentenced, due to adjustment issues, substance withdrawal, disrupted relationships, isolation and uncertainty.

The CCLA has recommended the formation of a new provincial office that would monitor, announce and follow-up on inmate deaths.

Its further called on Ontario to centralize data collection of in-custody deaths and make public all inquest findings on them. Its also called for a coroner-led review process for all natural in-custody deaths and asked that reports on inmate deaths be shared as quickly as possible with family, the coroners office and relevant oversight bodies.

Melissa Chatzimanolakis is waiting for a coroners report on her brothers death  which isnt expected for six to nine months  and is still seeking an explanation on why his surgery was cancelled in November.

No family should have to go through what my family is going through, she said. It happens a lot more often than people know.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 18, 2023.



This story was produced with the financial assistance of the Meta and Canadian Press News Fellowship.

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HALIFAX - Ottawas decision to shut down the lucrative but contentious baby eel fishery in the Maritimes has effectively ended the 2023 season, says a commercial licence holder in southwestern Nova Scotia.

Brian Giroux, of Shelburne Elver, a fishing co-op that employs 39 people, said the mandatory 45-day closure announced by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans on Saturday will largely run out a season that normally wraps up in early June.

Illegal activities that (DFO) failed to control have taken away the fishing from the licensed and legal fishing, Giroux said in an interview Monday.

The federal department closed the fishery on rivers in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, citing safety and conservation concerns. The closure was announced following ongoing complaints from commercial and First Nations fishers about growing violence and intimidation in the fishery.

Michel Samson, a lawyer who represents Wine Harbour Fisheries on Nova Scotias eastern shore, said his client only caught about 33 kilograms of its 1,000-kilogram quota. It began fishing later because of migratory patterns that see the eels arrive later in that area of the province.

Samson said its estimated that all of the annual quota for the region has been used up in any event, with about half taken by poachers.

Almost 5,000 kilograms were not accounted for -- they were not caught by the commercial licence holders, which means they were caught illegally, Samson said in an interview Tuesday. DFO lost control of a situation that in many ways they created.

The total allowable catch is 9,960 kilograms -- a limit that has been in place since 2005. The American eel was designated as threatened by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada in 2012.

The young eels are shipped live to Asian markets such as China and Japan, where they are grown for food. Growing demand has made them a prized commodity, with prices reaching $5,000 per kilogram in 2022. But, Giroux said the illegal catch has affected prices this year which have dropped closer to $4,000 per kilogram.

In a statement released Monday, the six chiefs of the Wolastoqey Nation in New Brunswick called for an urgent meeting with federal Fisheries Minister Joyce Murray to reiterate that our communal commercial elver licence must remain in full effect.

We strongly oppose her unilateral decision to shut down all fishing of elvers by First Nations, including the Wolastoqey Nation, and non-Indigenous commercial fishers, for at least 45 days, the chiefs said. They represent the Madawaska Maliseet, Tobique, Woodstock, Kingsclear, St. Marys, and Oromocto First Nations.

They said the decision to close fishing in Wolastoqey territory and in Nova Scotia was unjust and without basis and was done without consultation. The chiefs said the minister has made a serious oversight that unfairly punishes Wolastoqey fishers.

In Ottawa, Murray told reporters Monday that the decision to close the fishery was made after her department did everything it could.

The compliance enforcement was beefed up, we doubled it, over 740 enforcement operations, she said. Weve had numerous arrests. Its simply too dangerous for people, as well as my concern about the stock.

The minister confirmed that poachers were coming from outside the Maritimes, and even from outside Canada, in what amounted to a huge escalation of illegal fishing.

So, it was simply too dangerous to let this continue, and well have to really reflect on how this fishery is managed for next year, she said.

Giroux said that although similar violence led to a closure of the fishery in 2020, the situation this year is the worst hes seen.

Theres been gunplay and beatings, he said. There are literally hundreds of illegal players trying to hide amongst about 400 legal fishers.

Giroux said fishers in his area of Nova Scotia have noticed vehicles with New Brunswick, Quebec and Ontario licence plates near fishing spots, as well some from some U.S. states such as Maine and New Hampshire.

The increase in illegal fishing only added to tension over quota allocations for the 2023 season.

For the second consecutive year, Ottawa gave Indigenous fishers 14 per cent of the commercial quota as it seeks to increase their access to the fishery in recognition of a treaty right to make a moderate living from fishing.

Giroux said the federal governments move has cost his co-op about $1 million worth of quota annually this year and last. He added that he is part of a court challenge arguing the federal policy failed to compensate commercial fishers. They refused to buy us out with any kind of a legitimate offer, he said.

Commercial fishers maintain the majority of what they contend is poaching is done by First Nations fishers who are not part of federal agreements, although the non-licensed Indigenous fishers maintain they are also asserting their treaty rights. However, Giroux said more non-First Nations actors are getting involved in illicit trade.

At least a quarter, maybe more, are non-First Nations who are just a criminal element taking advantage of the fact that this is fairly lucrative, he said.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 18, 2023.

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E-scooter users who dont watch their speed can face fines of up to $25,000 and up to six months in prison.

In a TikTok posted Sunday by Toronto polices traffic services, Constable Sean Shapiro said that an e-scooter that travels faster than 24 km/h would be considered a motorcycle.

That means they must have the appropriate motorcycle license, registration, license plates and insurance. Without these, motorists can face fines of up to $25,000 and up to six months in prison, Shapiro said in the video.

Going over 24 km/h means the scooter would no longer be covered under the provincial pilot that allows them in some municipalities, said Shapiro in the video.

However, they are not allowed in Toronto at all.

On May 1, 2021 Toronto city council voted unanimously to opt-out of the provinces e-scooter pilot. The decision means that, in Toronto, e-scooters will remain prohibited on public streets, bike lanes, sidewalks, pathways, trails and other public spaces.

Toronto City Council has unanimously voted to reinforce the citys commitment to safety and accessibility for people, especially seniors and those living with disabilities, in Toronto by voting not to opt-in to the provincial e-scooter pilot, the city said at the time.

The province began the pilot project in Jan. 1, 2020 running until Jan. 1, 2025 which allows municipalities to determine where and how e-scooters are used.

In order for e-scooters to be allowed under the provinces pilot, the province requires that e-scooters that do not exceed 500 watts, have a maximum speed of 24 km/h on a level surface, have a handlebar for steering, have a platform to stand on and have two wheels, among others.

Municipalities could decide, whether they wanted to participate in the project. They could then decide where e-scooters may operate, where they may park, whether permits or licenses are required, among others.

Municipalities like Hamilton and Durham have signed onto the pilot.

Clarification  April 18, 2023: This article was updated to clarify the penalties that could be faced for travelling over 24 km/h on an e-scooter.

TG Thea Gribilas is a breaking news reporter, working out of the Star's radio room in Toronto. Reach her via email: tgribilas@thestar.ca

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Two people have been arrested in the United States for their alleged involvement with so-called overseas police stations set up by the Chinese government, according to the Justice Department.

The charges were announced Monday and reflect similar concerns in Canada about Chinese police outposts allegedly running in Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal. No charges have been laid by Canadian authorities.

In a separate case in New York, another 34 members of Chinas national police force were also charged for their roles in harassing dissidents in the U.S. via a social media offensive. A third case had eight Chinese government officials charged with directing an employee of a U.S. telecommunications company to remove Chinese dissidents from the companys platform.

The officials charged in those cases are believed to be in China.

The cases, put together, are part of a series of Justice Department prosecutions in recent years aimed at disrupting Chinese government efforts to locate activists who are openly critical of Beijings policies in the U.S.

Two men, Lu Jianwang, 61, and Chen Jinping, 59, were arrested in their New York homes Monday morning related to the outpost, which operated out of a building in Manhattans Chinatown.

They are charged with establishing the outpost under the direction and control of a Chinese government official, and with deleting communication with the official from their phones after becoming aware of the investigation, according to the Justice Department.

None of the people who were involved in the operations reported to the U.S government they were helping China operate the stations, the department said.

This prosecution reveals the Chinese governments flagrant violation of our nations sovereignty by establishing a secret police station in the middle of New York City, said Breon Peace, U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of New York in a statement from the Justice Department.

As alleged, the defendants and their co-conspirators were tasked with doing (Chinas) bidding, including helping locate a Chinese dissident living in the United States, and obstructed our investigation by deleting their communications. Such a police station has no place here in New York City  or any American community.

Court documents reveal statements from those who say they were targeted by Beijing officials or their proxies, including having their cars broken into and harassing phone calls and emails. Some reported threats of violence and harassment of family members in China.

The police outpost, which authorities believe opened in early 2022, is linked to the Fuzhou branch of Chinas Ministry of Public Security, according to the Justice Department.

Last year, three such outposts were found to be operating in Toronto, they were also tied to officials in Fuzhuo, a city in southern China. Chinas embassy in Canada has said the stations are there to help Chinese citizens run basic errands, like renewing their Chinese drivers licences.

International uproar about such stations broke out last year after the Spain-based human rights group, Safeguard Defenders, released a report indicating there were more than 50 such clandestine China police stations around the world. Since then the organization has found others.

Safeguard Defenders said the stations were being used as bases to harass and coerce those wanted in China to return to face charges, and to intimidate dissidents.

Last November another indictment in New York for another operation harassing someone wanted by China revealed the extent to which Chinas authorities go to, promising misery to the target.

Weeks ago, police in Quebec announced they were investigating two such potential outposts in the Montreal area. Prior to the announcement the three stations in Toronto and at least one in Vancouver were reported by Safeguard Defenders. The RCMP said it was investigating the outposts.

With files from The Associated Press

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Making Crooked the most widely available THC infused beverage in its first month of operation.

ST. CLOUD, Minn., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Crooked Beverage Co, announced today that they have partnered with Granite City Jobbing in an agreement to sell and distribute the company's THC infused tonics across the state of Minnesota. The partnership enables Crooked to benefit from Granite City's well-established customer base of more than 1400 locations across a combination of convenience stores, restaurants, bars, golf courses and more, with a focus on Greater Minnesota.

Pictured is Crooked Beverage Company's sparkling tonic 4 packs. The lineup includes; Strawberry Basil, Berry Hibiscus, and Blood Orange. The black cans are 5 mg of thc and 5 mg of cbd, the white cans are 3 mg of thc and 3 mg of cbd. Servings are 12 oz cans and are equipped with child resistant caps.

"We are thrilled to have the Smith family partner with us on our mission to become Minnesota's most loved and accessible functional beverage. Their nearly 60 years of experience with meeting customer needs and reaching some of the most remote areas of the state make the partnership a win / win," said Maddie Schenk, Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer at Crooked. "We know our customers value a beverage that tastes great, and with the wide range of access options available in the state for hemp derived THC beverages, it makes for a perfect marriage."

"The team at Crooked has been incredibly helpful in integrating into our network, both on the customer acquisition side but also across our staff through a combination of powerful point of sale items such as end caps, floor decals, coasters, apparel and clings for coolers, windows and doors; as well as the intuitive online training and certification program CrookED , which is required for all who sell or serve their tonics," said Mike Smith, President and owner of Granite City Jobbing. "These guys put consumer safety first and have made it easy for our customers to adopt and sell."

Crooked Beverage offers THC infused tonics in a variety of flavors and doses to make it easy for all types of consumers to enjoy in all types of social settings. "We have made great progress to date, but we are only getting started," noted Jeremy Sutherland, Co-Founder of Crooked Beverage. "We are about access and opportunity in communities all over Minnesota and we will continue to lead with our commitment to safety, compliance, high-quality products and community access. We want to be a win for this exciting new market, our customers and our partners," added Sutherland.

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About Crooked Beverage:

Crooked Beverage Company is committed to the standards and the desires of those looking for an alternative to alcohol. Crooked is made in Minnesota, uses Minnesota-grown hemp and all-natural ingredients, and Crooked is committed to supporting our Minnesota supply chain. We prioritize safety and education to ensure a happy and enjoyable experience before, during and after consumption of our tonics. Like the water in our lakes, the snow on our roofs, the color of our autumn leaves, the fish under our ice and the cravings for summers we all share, we are Minnesota. Crooked is the ultimate Minnesota, functional beverage! You'll find our tonics in the stores you trust, the restaurants you love, and online at www.crookedbeverage.com

Press inquiries: press@crookedbeverage.com

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KHARTOUM, Sudan (AP)  Fighting raged in Sudan on Tuesday hours after an internationally brokered truce was supposed to have come into effect, as forces loyal to dueling generals battled for key locations in the capital and accused each other of violating the cease-fire.

The humanitarian truce came after days of intense efforts by top diplomats on four continents and had raised hopes of sparing Africas third largest country from civil war. But each side still appeared determined to vanquish the other, despite the suffering of millions of civilians trapped by the fighting.

Residents said they still heard gunfire and explosions in different parts of the capital, Khartoum, particularly around the militarys headquarters and the Republican Palace. They said few people had ventured out, though there were crowds outside some bakeries.

The fighting remains underway, Atiya Abdulla Atiya of the Sudan Doctors Syndicate told The Associated Press. We are hearing constant gunfire.

Sudanese in the capital and in other cities have been hiding in their homes, caught in the crossfire as rival forces pounded residential areas with artillery and airstrikes and engaged in gunbattles outside. Residents say dead bodies in the streets are unreachable because of clashes, with the toll likely to be far higher than the 185 dead reported by the U.N. since fighting began Saturday.

The conflict between the armed forces, led by Gen. Abdel Fattah Burhan, and a paramilitary group known as the Rapid Support Forces, led by Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, has once again derailed Sudans transition to democratic rule after decades of dictatorship and civil war.

Pro-democracy groups and political parties had recently reached an agreement with the two generals  who jointly led a 2021 coup  but it was never signed and is now in tatters.

The RSF immediately accused the military of violating the cease-fire after it came into effect at 6 p.m. local time (1600 GMT). The army said the rebellious militia continued its attacks around the military headquarters and launched a failed attack on a military base to the south.

Atiya said the Fadil Hospital in Khartoum was hit by shelling after the truce took effect, damaging a medical gas pipeline and water systems. Its one of at least 12 hospitals in and around the capital that have been forced to shut down because of the fighting, out of a total of around 20.

The U.S. Embassy said late Tuesday that there has been ongoing fighting in Khartoum and surrounding areas, and advised Americans in Sudan to shelter in place. It said there were no immediate plans for a government-coordinated evacuation.

Over the past day, fighters in Khartoum attacked a U.S. Embassy convoy and stormed the home of the EU envoy to Sudan, though neither attack caused casualties. The convoy of clearly marked U.S. Embassy vehicles was attacked Monday, and preliminary reports link the assailants to the RSF, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters.

Blinken spoke by phone late Monday separately with both generals, seeking a 24-hour halt in fighting as a foundation for a longer truce and return to negotiations. Egypt, which backs the Sudanese military, and Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, which have close ties to the RSF, have also been calling on all sides to stand down.

Dagalo said in a series of tweets Tuesday that he had approved a 24-hour humanitarian truce after speaking to Blinken. The military initially said the coming hours would bring the crushing defeat of the RSF and only publicly committed to the truce after it began.

Shortly before the start of the cease-fire, a coalition of political parties and pro-democracy groups said it received positive positions from leaders of the military and the RSF on the daylong humanitarian pause. It said in a statement that discussions were underway to solidify that truce.

More tanks and armored vehicles belonging to the military rolled into Khartoum early Tuesday, heading toward the militarys headquarters and the Republican Palace, residents said. During the night, fighter jets swooped overhead and anti-aircraft fire lit up the sky.

Each side already has tens of thousands of troops distributed around Khartoum and the city of Omdurman on the opposite bank of the Nile River. Terrified residents trapped in their homes for days have hoped for a halt long enough at least to get supplies or move to safer areas. The fighting erupted suddenly at the start of the last week of the Islamic holy month of fasting, Ramadan.

We are trying to take advantage of Ramadan to try to continue our faith and prayer, said Mohammed Al Faki, one of 89 students and staffers trapped in the engineering building at Khartoum University. We are trying to help each other stay patient until this crisis is over.

One student was killed by a sniper, he said, and they buried his body on the campus. The students and staff have had to go out for supplies occasionally, risking harassment by RSF fighters battling troops nearby, he said.

They are attacking us on the streets. They are looting. If you are walking, they will take even your phone from you in the street, the 19-year-old student said of the RSF.

U.N. figures have put the toll from fighting at more than 185 dead and 1,800 wounded, without providing a breakdown of civilians and combatants. The Sudan Doctors Syndicate said Tuesday that at least 144 civilians were killed and more than 1,400 wounded but that many dead could still not be reached to be counted.

Videos posted online Tuesday showed Souq al-Bahri, a large outdoor market in northern Khartoum, in flames from nearby clashes. Satellite images from Maxar Technologies taken Monday showed damage across Khartoum, including to security service buildings. Tanks stood guard at a bridge over the White Nile River and other locations.

Satellite images from Planet Labs PBC, also taken Monday, showed some 20 damaged civilian and military aircraft at Khartoum International Airport, which has a military section. Some had been completely destroyed, with one still belching smoke. At the El Obeid and Merowe air bases, north and south of Khartoum, several fighter jets were among the destroyed aircraft.

The European Unions foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, tweeted Monday that the EU ambassador to Sudan was assaulted in his own residency, without providing further details.

A Western diplomat in Cairo said the residence was ransacked by armed men in RSF uniforms. No one was hurt but the armed men stole several items, said the diplomat, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to talk to the media.

Early on Sunday, the Norwegian ambassadors residence was hit by a shell, causing damage but no injuries, Norwegian Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt said.

The fighting is the latest chapter in Sudans turmoil since a popular uprising four years ago helped depose long-time autocrat Omar al-Bashir.

Burhan and Dagalo jointly orchestrated an October 2021 coup, derailing efforts to enshrine a civilian government. Both generals have a long history of human rights abuses, and their forces have cracked down on pro-democracy activists.

Under international pressure, Burhan and Dagalo recently agreed to a framework agreement with political parties and pro-democracy groups. But the signing was repeatedly delayed as tensions rose over the integration of the RSF into the armed forces and the future chain of command  tensions that exploded into violence Saturday. ___ Magdy reported from Cairo. Associated Press writers Fay Abuelgasim in Beirut, Jon Gambrell in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and Matthew Lee in Karuizawa, Japan, contributed to this report.

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WASHINGTON (AP)  The Air Force is investigating how a lone airman could access and distribute possibly hundreds of highly classified documents, and in the meantime has taken away the intelligence mission from the unit where the leaks took place, Air Force leaders said Tuesday.

Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall told Congress he has directed the Air Force inspector general to go look at the Air National Guard 102nd Intelligence Wing based in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, where Airman 1st Class Jack Teixeira served and look at anything associated with this leak that could have gone wrong.

Teixeira, 21, was charged Friday in the U.S. District Court in Boston with unauthorized removal and retention of classified and national defense information. He is expected back in court for a hearing Wednesday.

The leaks have raised questions as to how a single airman could have removed so many documents without being detected, why there were not safety checks in place and how the documents could have lingered online undetected for months.

How could this guardsman take this information and distribute it electronically for weeks, if not months, and nobody knew about it? Democratic Sen. Jon Tester of Montana asked the Air Force leaders testifying before a Senate defense appropriations subcommittee.

These are questions the Air Force is asking, too. For top secret information across the military, theres supposed to be accountable control officers who are responsible for recording active top secret documents and ensuring they have been either properly secured or disposed of, such as through a shredder or by burning them.

Pending further review, The 102nd Intelligence Wing is not currently performing its assigned intelligence mission. The mission has been temporarily reassigned to other organizations within the Air Force, the service said in a statement to The Associated Press.

In addition, the Air Force is conducting a service-wide review of how each command handles classified information, Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. C.Q. Brown told members of subcommittee.

The Air Forces own reviews are on top of a military-wide review directed on Monday by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. Austin has ordered that all military facilities that handle classified information report to him within 45 days on how they access, share, store and destroy the nations secrets following the leaks.

The leaked documents exposed to the world unvarnished secret assessments on the war in Ukraine, the capabilities and geopolitical interests of other nations and other national security issues.

Teixeira posted the highly classified material in a geopolitical chat room on Discord, a social media platform that started as a hangout for gamers.

He had access to some aspects based on his job as a cyber administrator. He took advantage of that access, Brown said.

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JACKSON, Miss. (AP)  A Mississippi sheriff says in a new court filing that theres no point in serving an arrest warrant on a white woman in the 1955 kidnapping that led to the lynching of Black teenager Emmett Till because last year a grand jury decided not to indict the woman.

Tills kidnapping and killing became a catalyst for the civil rights movement when his mother insisted on an open-casket funeral in their hometown of Chicago after his brutalized body was pulled from a river in Mississippi. Jet magazine published photos.

The Mississippi arrest warrant for Mrs. Roy Bryant was issued shortly after Tills death but was never served on the white woman who has since remarried and is now known as Carolyn Bryant Donham.

Last June, a team doing research at the courthouse in Leflore County, Mississippi, found the unserved warrant. In July, the office of Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch said there was no new evidence to pursue a criminal case against Donham. In August, a district attorney said a Leflore County grand jury declined to indict Donham.

Since the Grand Jury found no probable cause to indict Donham on the charges of kidnapping and manslaughter, there is no probable cause to support the 1955 Arrest Warrant, Charles J. Swayze III, an attorney for Leflore County Sheriff Ricky Banks, wrote in court papers filed Thursday.

Tills cousin Priscilla Sterling filed a federal lawsuit against Banks on Feb. 7, seeking to compel him to serve the 1955 warrant on Donham. In the response Thursday, Swayze asked a judge to dismiss the suit.

The Associated Press left a phone message Tuesday for one of Sterlings attorneys, seeking comment about the sheriffs court filing.

Till traveled from Chicago to visit relatives in Mississippi in August 1955. Donham accused him of making improper advances on her at a grocery store in the small community of Money. Wheeler Parker, a cousin of Till who was there, has said 14-year-old Till whistled at the woman  an act that flew in the face of Mississippis racist social codes of the era.

Evidence indicates a woman, possibly Donham, identified Till to her then-husband Roy Bryant and his half-brother J.W. Milam, who killed the teenager. The arrest warrant against Donham was publicized in 1955, but the Leflore County sheriff at the time, George Smith, told reporters that he did not want to bother the woman since she was raising two young children.

Weeks after Tills body was found, Roy Bryant and Milam were tried for murder and acquitted by an all-white jury. Months later, the men confessed in a paid interview with Look magazine.

Banks has been sheriff since 1980. In the court filing Thursday, Swayze wrote that Sterlings lawsuit shows no factual allegation of misconduct by Banks.

Donham, now in her late 80s, has lived in North Carolina and Kentucky in recent years. She has not commented publicly on calls for her prosecution. The U.S. Justice Department announced in December 2021 that it had ended its latest investigation into the lynching of Till, without bringing charges against anyone.

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HALIFAX - Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston asked people to pause for a moment of silence Tuesday at noon and again on Wednesday to remember the 22 people killed three years ago during the worst mass shooting in Canadian history.

Houston issued a statement saying the impact of the tragedy in northern and central Nova Scotia on April 18-19, 2020, is still being felt.

We must always remember and honour the lives of victims and survivors, Houston said in the statement. We are inspired by the courage and strength shown each day by the families, survivors and communities.

Flags at the provincial legislature and all provincial government buildings were to fly at half-mast from Tuesday at sunrise until sunset on Wednesday. As well, the premier encouraged all citizens, businesses and community organizations that fly flags to lower them to half-mast during that time.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also issued a statement, saying he has been inspired by the strength and resilience of the victims families and all Nova Scotians.

On this sombre day, we remember those we lost and hold their memories close to our hearts, Trudeau said. Today, Canadians remember the 22 people, including a woman who was expecting a child, whose lives were cut short on one of the darkest days in Canadian history.

Trudeau described the mass shooting as a senseless tragedy that caused a heartbreaking sense of loss that will never go away.

In the aftermath of this attack, Canadians across the country united in grief and solidarity, he said.

Last month, a public inquiry released a 3,000-page final report that highlighted a litany of mistakes made by the Mounties during their response to the shootings, and it called on Ottawa to rethink the RCMPs central role in policing.

The inquiry heard that the killer was disguised as a Mountie and driving a replica RCMP cruiser when he fatally shot 13 people in Portapique, N.S., on the night of April 18, 2020, and then killed another nine people the next day before he was shot dead by two Mounties.

On Tuesday, Trudeau pledged to work closely with the Nova Scotia government and the affected communities to ensure this kind of tragedy never happens again.

The government of Canada has already taken action to keep Canadians safe in their communities, and we have invested in better mental health supports, he said, citing the Wellness Together Canada portal and the PocketWell app that provides free, 24/7 access to support.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 18, 2023.

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Premier Doug Ford is putting the tired Ontario Science Centre in its place  Ontario Place.

In a controversial move denounced by many at Toronto city hall, the Science Centre will shrink  with its existing Don Mills heritage building demolished for housing  and be relocated to Ontario Place after 2025.

All of us grew up going to the Science Centre one time or another. Its tired, Ford told reporters Tuesday at the Budweiser Stage, which is also being redeveloped as part of the changes to Ontario Place, the waterfront park largely underutilized for more than a decade.

So what were planning to do is get rid of the old Science Centre, putting in affordable, attainable, non-profit housing homes up there because thats what people need, he said, conceding the square footage may not be the same in the new science museum.

Theres no price tag yet available for the plan, but the premier said the 1969 brutalist-style Science Centre, designed by architect Raymond Moriyama, would have to be torn down.

Fords decision to demolish the building, which has been a Don Mills landmark for decades, is wrong and was made with zero consultation of surrounding communities, said Coun. Jon Burnside.

Flemingdon Park and Thorncliffe Park residents, many of them newcomers to Canada, are anguished at the loss of a local gem that provides local jobs and learning opportunities for kids with scant resources, said the Don Valley East representative.

I will fight to ensure this doesnt become just another housing development, said Burnside.

This area is jammed and weve already got new condo towers coming to the Wynford Heights and Celestica sites. Kids are already playing under hydro lines because we have no space, he said.

While the future of Ontario Place has become a hot topic in the June 26 Toronto mayoral byelection, Ford said the province would be forging ahead regardless of which candidate wins.

I always respect that Toronto is the host city, but last time I checked on the sign out there, it doesnt say Toronto Place, it says Ontario Place, he said.

This is for everyone around Ontario, we will always respect and we work collaboratively with Toronto. The previous mayor was very, very helpful, said the premier, referring to John Tory, who resigned in February.

This is an election, theyre going to agree or disagree. Some of them want little red apple trees going around here and dont touch anything. That doesnt cut it. This is prime real estate. We need more venues here in Toronto to attract more tourists.

Mayoral candidate Ana Bailao, whose campaign launch announcement put Ontario Place on the front-burner of the election, wants Science Centre programming moved but the Don Mills building kept and made into a community hub.

Last week, Ford insisted his changes were in the works long before Bailao urged him to move the Science Centre to Ontario Place, freeing up city-owned Don Mills land to build 5,000 homes, including 1,500 affordable units.

Mayoral candidates Brad Bradford, Olivia Chow, Mitzie Hunter, and Josh Matlow each said they would fight to keep Science Centre where it is  and preserve Ontario Place as a park.

But rival Mark Saunders, whose candidacy Ford tacitly supports, said he agrees with the premier that the building should be demolished to make way for housing.

The leaner, meaner Science Centre would be located in a building to be constructed on an existing surface parking lot as well as in the preserved and upgraded iconic Cinesphere and pod complex on the waterfront, said Ford.

Along with a year-round 20,000-seat Live Nation-run concert space, there is a proposed private water recreation and wellness centre to be operated by Therme, an Austrian company, on Ontario Places West Island.

Queens Park is expected to spend hundreds of millions of dollars on a five-level, 2,700-spot underground parking garage for the spa and Budweiser Stage complete with electric bus and vehicle chargers. The government said the parking lot will be self-financing, revenue generating and will round out and complement the many transit and transportation options, such as the new Ontario Line subway.

Infrastructure Minister Kinga Surma stressed that there would be parkland as part of the reimagined Ontario Place.

Once complete, the site will feature 43 acres of free public space for everyone to enjoy  thats seven acres larger than Torontos Trinity Bellwoods Park and more than three times the size of Dufferin Grove Park, said Surma.

In the future, you will be able to walk on a new public boulevard, stroll along a new pier, relax on a new public beach and play in a new one-acre fountain, she said.

Families and children will be able to ride a train across the island, celebrate in new events spaces and enjoy food and beverage accessible all year long. And finally, a new and improved marina will be a lively year round spot to socialize.

A recent City of Toronto planning staff report highlighted a slew of objections to the spa plan, which would require the cutting down of more than 800 trees.

The community group, Ontario Place for All, blasted the provinces proposal  and the apparent lack of consultation with area residents.

This is typical of the Ford government; move first, ask questions later, said the groups chair Norm Di Pasquale, a long-time NDP activist.

The utter lack of transparency and consultation follows precisely the same pattern as the process that landed us with a private Austrian mega-spa at Ontario Place that has absolutely nothing to do with Ontario.

The Science Centre currently sits on city-owned land that the province leased in 1965 for 99 years at a cost of $1 a year.

With files from David Rider

Robert Benzie is the Stars Queens Park bureau chief and a reporter covering Ontario politics. Follow him on Twitter: @robertbenzie

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Artificial Intelligence is the shiny new thing venture capitalists are throwing money atleaving once red-hot crypto projects flailing for funding.

Mysten Labs co-founder and CEO Evan Cheng said this shift is due to the ability of AI products and applications to cater to a broader audience while the crypto industry continues to focuses on itself.

Multidisciplinary venture capitalists are increasingly turning their attention to artificial intelligence investments, driven by the technologys proven value to consumers, Cheng said, contrasting the explosion in artificial intelligence with that of cryptocurrency since 2017.

ChatGPT came out, and [developers] are building products and applications for consumers and for developerswidespread, large-scale use cases are immediately possible," he observed. "In crypto, the industry has been building products for crypto people.

Founded in 2021, Mysten Labs offers a tech infrastructure platform dedicated to the development and adoption of Web3 projects and boasts a leadership team that includes former Apple and Meta (then Facebook) scientists and engineers. In March of last year, Mysten Labs launched the Sui blockchain, which aims to provide fast transactions with low latency and cost.

Cheng says the growing interest in AI among VCs is evident in their activities on social media, particularly Twitter.

Web3 Builder Alchemy Hits $10B Valuation as Lightspeed, Silver Lake Invest

While Cheng did not give specific examples of the shift in investing, a $150 million investment in Character AI last month by long time crypto investor firm Andreessen Horowitz could be illustrative. Lightspeed Venture Partners also participated in a $101 million raise for Stability AI, the team behind A.I. text-to-image platform Stable Diffusion, in October 2022.

Even blockchain companies are investing in AI. In February, Tron founder Justin Sun said the company would launch a $100 million AI development fund.

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Cheng believes that A.I., blockchain, and Web3 technologies are still complementary areas and can also be used in consumer products. Conversely, he expressed skepticism about incorporating A.I. as a core component, as it may not be necessary or suitable for all applications.

One area we are very interested in, and where we see a lot of opportunities, is using AI technology in developer tools, Cheng said. Weve already seen its value in smart contract auditing and code assistance, for example.

"While there are buzzword products combining AI and crypto, Id be skeptical of their true utility," he continued. "However, when it comes to developer tools for smart contract developers, thats definitely a fruitful area.

VCs tend to follow trends and invest in compelling narratives, Cheng said, giving as an example the rise of decentralized finance (DeFi) and non-fungible tokens (NFTs). However, he stresses the importance of delivering tangible value in order to attract VC attention. If crypto projects can do so, he said they can garner the necessary investment to continue innovating and growing.

Cheng said showcasing innovative, consumer-focused products will reignite investment interest in the blockchain and crypto sectors, and he maintains a positive outlook on the future of the Web3, blockchain, and crypto sectors

I believe there will be numerous big, powerful, and exciting products aimed at consumers, and thats what truly excites me, he said. By presenting people with a few captivating, imaginative ideas, we can attract investments back to this space.
WILMINGTON, Del. (AP)  Fox News agreed Tuesday to pay Dominion Voting Systems nearly $800 million to avert a trial in the voting machine company's lawsuit that would have exposed how the network promoted lies about the 2020 presidential election.

The stunning settlement emerged just as opening statements were supposed to begin, abruptly ending a case that had embarrassed Fox News over several months and raised the possibility that network founder Rupert Murdoch and stars such as Tucker Carlson and Sean Hannity would have to testify publicly.

The truth matters. Lies have consequences, Dominion lawyer Justin Nelson told reporters outside a Delaware courthouse after Superior Court Judge Eric Davis announced the deal.

Outside of the $787.5 million promised to Colorado-based Dominion, it was unclear what other consequences Fox would face. Fox acknowledged in a statement the courts rulings finding certain claims about Dominion to be false, but no apology was offered.

We are hopeful that our decision to resolve this dispute with Dominion amicably, instead of the acrimony of a divisive trial, allows the country to move forward from these issues, Fox said. Its lawyers and representatives offered no other comment or details about the settlement.

Asked by a reporter whether there was anything to this other than money," Dominion CEO John Poulos did not answer.

The deal is a significant amount of money even for a company the size of Fox. It represents about one-quarter of the $2.96 billion the company reported earning last year before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization  a figure often used to approximate a company's cash flow.

The settlement also follows a $965 million judgment issued last year against Alex Jones by a Connecticut jury for spreading false conspiracy theories about the Sandy Hook school massacre.

Coupled with other lawsuits in the pipeline, the agreement shows there is a real financial risk for conservative media that traffic in conspiracy theories. What remains unknown is how much of a deterrent this will be. Even as the Dominion case loomed this spring, Fox's Tucker Carlson aired his alternate theories about what happened at the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection.

Dominion had sued Fox for $1.6 billion, arguing that the top-rated news outlet damaged the company's reputation by peddling phony conspiracy theories that claimed its equipment switched votes from former President Donald Trump to Democrat Joe Biden. Davis, in an earlier ruling, said it was CRYSTAL clear that none of the allegations about Dominion aired on Fox by Trump allies were true.

Dominion set out to prove in the lawsuit that Fox acted with malice in airing allegations that it knew to be false, or with reckless disregard for the truth. It presented volumes of internal emails and text messages that showed Fox executives and personalities saying they knew the accusations were untrue, even as the falsehoods were aired on programs hosted by Maria Bartiromo, Lou Dobbs and Jeannine Pirro.

Records released as part of the lawsuit showed that Fox aired the claims in part to win back viewers who were fleeing the network after it correctly called hotly contested Arizona for Democrat Joe Biden on election night. One Fox Corp. vice president called them MIND BLOWINGLY NUTS.

During a deposition, Murdoch testified that he believed the 2020 election was fair and had not been stolen from Trump.

Fox knew the truth, Dominion argued in court papers. It knew the allegations against Dominion were outlandish and crazy and ludicrous and nuts. Yet it used the power and influence of its platform to promote that false story.

Several First Amendment experts said Dominions case was among the strongest they had ever seen. But there was real doubt about whether Dominion would be able to prove to a jury that people in a decision-making capacity at Fox could be held responsible for the networks actions.

Dominion's Nelson called the settlement a tremendous victory and noted that there are six more lawsuits pending regarding election claims.

We settled because it was about accountability, Nelson said in an interview. Our goals were to make sure that there was accountability for the lies, and to try to make our client right. And we accomplished both goals.

It's hard to tell what the deal will mean financially for Dominion. The company would not provide its most recent earnings, saying the figures were not public.

In the weeks leading up to the trial, Davis significantly narrowed Foxs potential line of defense, including nixing the networks argument that it was merely airing newsworthy allegations. Newsworthiness is not a defense against defamation, he said.

In a March 31 ruling, he pointedly called out the network for airing falsehoods while noting that bogus election claims still persist more than two years after Trump lost his bid for reelection.

The statements at issue were dramatically different than the truth, Davis said in that ruling. In fact, although it cannot be attributed directly to Foxs statements, it is noteworthy that some Americans still believe the election was rigged.

In its defense, Fox said it was obligated to report on a president who claimed that he had been cheated out of reelection.

We never reported those to be true, Fox lawyer Erin Murphy said. All we ever did was provide viewers the true fact that these were allegations that were being made.

Dominion had sued both Fox News and its parent, Fox Corp, and said its business had been significantly damaged. Fox said the company grossly overestimated its losses, before agreeing to pay about half of what Dominion had asked for.

In a 1964 case involving The New York Times, the U.S. Supreme Court limited the ability of public figures to sue for defamation. The court ruled that plaintiffs needed to prove that news outlets published or aired false material with actual malice  knowing such material was false or acting with a reckless disregard for whether or not it was true.

That has provided news organizations with stout protection against libel judgments. Yet the nearly six-decade legal standard has come under attack by some conservatives in recent years, including Trump and Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida, who have argued for making it easier to win a libel case.

The larger importance of the settlement ... is that the high level of protection for news media in a defamation case remains intact for now, said Doreen Weisenhaus, an instructor of media law at Northwestern University.

In documents released in recent months, Fox executives and anchors discussed how not to alienate the audience, many of whom believed Trumps claims of fraud despite no evidence to back them up. Foxs Tucker Carlson suggested a news reporter be fired for tweeting a fact check debunking the fraud claims.

Some of the exhibits were simply embarrassing, such as scornful behind-the-scenes opinions about Trump, whose supporters form the core of the networks viewers. Text exchanges revealed as part of the lawsuit show Carlson declaring, I hate him passionately, and saying that we are very, very close to being able to ignore Trump most nights.

Fox News announced the settlement on Neil Cavutos afternoon news show. Its a done deal, he said. Its a settlement and for at least Fox, it appears to be over.

But Foxs legal problems may not be over. It still faces a defamation lawsuit from another voting technology company, Smartmatic. Its lawyer, Erik Connolly, said Tuesday that Dominions litigation exposed some of the misconduct and damage caused by Foxs disinformation campaign. Smartmatic will expose the rest.

___ Associated Press writers Jennifer Peltz in New York and Nicholas Riccardi in Denver contributed to this report.

The Associated Press receives support from several private foundations to enhance its explanatory coverage of elections and democracy. See more about APs democracy initiative here. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
Federal investigators say BNSF railroad is analyzing a section of fractured rail after last month's fiery derailment that prompted evacuations in southwest Minnesota, but they didn't say definitively that the broken rail caused the crash.

The National Transportation Safety Board issued its preliminary report Tuesday on the March 30 derailment that forced about 800 people from their homes in Raymond, Minnesota, after 10 ethanol cars derailed and several of them caught fire from the fuel additive leak. Those ethanol cars were among 23 cars that came off the tracks shortly before 1 a.m. that day.

The fire burned into the following day before firefighters could extinguish it, but no one was hurt and everyone who evacuated was able to return home within 12 hours of the derailment. Investigators estimated that the derailment caused $1.9 million of damage to railroad equipment and the tracks.

This Minnesota derailment only added to the growing concerns about railroad safety in the wake of the fiery Feb. 3 Norfolk Southern derailment outside East Palestine, Ohio. Roughly half the town of about 5,000 had to evacuate in the days after that derailment, when hazardous chemicals were released and burned, leaving many residents with questions about the potential for long-term health problems.

People who live around the derailment that happened near the Pennsylvania border are demanding more answers as the railroad works to clean up contaminated soil and water. Norfolk Southern's CEO testified in Ohio's legislature Tuesday after previously appearing at two Congressional hearings focused on possible railroad safety reforms.

The NTSB said that two of the ethanol cars were punctured during the Minnesota derailment even though they were the upgraded models of tank cars that were designed to resist leaks after a string of fiery crude oil and ethanol derailments a decade ago. The fire from those leaking ethanol cars damaged the gaskets on three other ethanol cars nearby, causing them to leak as well, even though the gaskets were rated to withstand temperatures up to 225 degrees Fahrenheit (107.2 degrees Celsius).

The Forth Worth, Texas-based railroad declined to comment on the NTSB investigation, but spokesperson Amy McBeth said the cleanup at the site is largely complete. She said testing in the area hasn't shown any threat to human health or the environment.

At the time of the derailment, state officials said they weren't especially concerned about groundwater contamination because most of the ethanol would burn off and the ground remained frozen, with temperatures hovering just a few degrees above zero Fahrenheit (-17.78 degree Celsius).

Investigators said that at the time of the derailment, the train was going 43 mph  which is below the 49 mph speed limit for the area.

The Minnesota derailment happened about 100 miles (161 kilometers) west of Minneapolis. The full NTSB report on the derailment, which will identify the cause, may take more than a year to complete.

The crew of the 40-car train included an engineer, a conductor, a brakeman and a conductor trainee. None of them were hurt.
READING, Pa. - Three suspected drug dealers are behind bars after authorities say they'd been selling fentanyl, heroin and cocaine in Reading.

"They were being sold through a back window and through the door," said Berks County District Attorney John Adams.

According to officials, Jonathan Dinnis Fernandez, Hector Nieves-Castano and Luis Figueroa-Santiago dealt drugs from a home in the 800 block of Muhlenberg Street.

"It was being utilized for one thing and one thing only, to sell drugs," said Adams.

Authorities obtained a warrant and made the arrests last Thursday. They say they seized various items from the home, including drugs, a gun and ammo.

All three are charged with possession with intent to deliver and related offenses.

And the arrests didn't stop there.

Investigators say they did a reverse operation, posing as dealers.

Over the course of four hours authorities say they arrested 22 people.

"It's kind of a sad scenario that we were able to arrest that many people," said Adams.

Adams says his goal is to get users off the street and get them the help that they need.

"We want to get them into treatment. We want to break the cycle of addiction," said Adams.

As for the property itself, District Attorney John Adams says he hopes the city will get involved and the place will ultimately be condemned.
READING, Pa. - "We're seeing these incidents where someone's calling a communication center and reporting that there's a shooting or a bomb threat or an explosive device in a school happen more and more frequently," said Reading Police Chief Richard Tornielli.

These calls are happening all over the country, including here in Berks County.

Law enforcement has to take every threat seriously, so when many of them turn out to be false, it can cause major problems.

"If we're sending a large response to the high school for one of these hoaxes, then we don't have units available to respond to other calls that are taking place in the city," Tornielli said.

Some Pennsylvania lawmakers are looking at introducing legislation to create felony criminal penalties for falsely reporting emergency threats towards schools in the state.

Some law enforcers aren't sure that will help.

"I don't think in the instances we're seeing right now that the change in legislation at state level is going to have any effect," said Tornielli. "We're seeing a lot of these calls are originating overseas, they're not coming from within the US or even Pennsylvania by itself."

Tornielli said the department assesses every threat to quickly determine credibility and level of response.

He said police also pass on the appropriate information to larger agencies like the FBI, but he doesn't believe it's something that can easily be resolved.

"We don't have jurisdiction or the capabilities to investigate these incidents, especially when there's an international nexus to them," Tornielli said.
BETHLEHEM, Pa. - Bethlehem is trying to stop new housing from being built near Lehigh University.

The city submitted to a judge Tuesday its appeal to a Zoning Hearing Board decision that would allow townhomes to be built on the South Side.

The development would include an area where three homes currently stand in the 400 block of Jackson Street.

Those homes would reportedly be torn down.

No word on when the judge will make a decision.
Jaindl Land Co. has been awarded $3.6 million in state grants for its plan to convert the former Mary Immaculate Center seminary property in Lehigh Township into a resort and spa.

Adam Jaindl presented the project, which has been in the works for years, to Northampton County Council on April 6. The application for Pennsylvania Redevelopment Assistance Capital (RACP) grants had the support of County Executive Lamont McClure and county council.

Adam Jaindl said Tuesday that the project was awarded the money.

McClure said Jaindl's plan preserves a 911 antenna at the site, a crucial link in the public safety network. He also said the project will provide jobs, boost the tax base and save green space, and "It's not a warehouse." McClure opposes "warehouse proliferation" and tax breaks that support it.

Jaindl Land Co. bought the former Roman Catholic seminary in 2016. Jaindl now owns about 600 acres at the site. The company proposes new construction along with renovation and preservation of existing buildings, including a chapel.

Adam Jaindl said at an April 6 council committee meeting that much of the land will remain open.

"The core focus of the development is really agrarian," he said, with farms, orchards and grapevines.

Of the 202 guest rooms planned for what is now called the Lehigh Valley Resort & Spa, many will be suites. A new building will hold 166 rooms, with another 36 in the seminary.

"Most of the development will be in one area around the seminary," Jaindl told the Community and Economic Development Committee. The seminary building covers about 130,000 square feet, he said, and new construction of about 150,000 square feet is planned.

Jaindl said about 200 jobs will be created at the resort, not counting construction and other jobs supported by the development but off the site. That will boost the regional economy and tax base, he said.

The resort will be a "world class" destination when it is completed, Jaindl said. It will offer meeting space, the chapel for weddings, multiple food and beverage outlets, and passive and active recreation.

Committee Chairwoman Tara Zrinski said the property is "bucolic," and she supported the plan. Northampton County Council approved two grant applications, one for $1.5 million and the other for $2.1 million.

"I appreciate the preservation of the land and farming it as well, and the preservation of the structure," she said of the Jaindl plan.

Commissioner Kevin Lott (council members are known as commissioners) asked that the company hire local contractors and workers, pointing out that the state grant is taxpayers' money.

In response to a question from Commissioner John Goffredo, Adam Jaindl said the company plans to keep the resort.

"We're not looking to build it and flip it," he said. Jaindl Land Co. will bring in a company to operate the hotel, he said.

The former seminary is at 300 Cherryville Road in Lehigh Township.

County Executive McClure said the Jaindl plan preserves a crucial 911 antenna at the site.

"First and foremost, public safety is my top concern," McClure said in an email statement. "The county network was designed to provide overlapping, supportive radio coverage from all tower sites. If any one site needed to be removed, it would have an obvious and deleterious impact on other sites. This would require a comprehensive redesign of the communications system, identification of alternative tower sites and investment in implementing such sites."

"Second, it's a good project," he said. "It's not a warehouse" and the Jaindl plan "makes it more than not that the land surrounding the resort that Jaindl Land Company owns will not be developed."

The county agreed to be the local sponsor of the grant, McClure said, and that does cost county taxpayers anything.

He summed up his support: "It's not a warehouse. Good-paying jobs will be created. A valuable historic cultural asset is preserved. It is less likely to cause the adjacent land to be developed, and it keeps the public safe."

RACP grants are for "the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational and historical improvement projects," according to the state's Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program website.
BETHLEHEM, Pa. - More apartments could be coming to south Bethlehem.

A developer is proposing what it calls "one of the largest redevelopments" in the city's history, and said it could be a game-changer for the south side, especially for shops and businesses.

The building with 240 apartments would require a zoning change, and neighbors nearby have plenty to say about it.

"I talked to a lot of people in the building and they are pretty passionate about it, being on either side," neighbor John Whelan said.

Whelan lives in Bethlehem, next to 119 Technology Drive. By next year, the current company occupying the space there will be closed, and a new developer proposes knocking down the industrial building and adding 240 apartments, in a new six-story building.

But doing that requires a change: the area is currently zoned for industrial redevelopment. The developer wants to change it to central business zoning to allow for apartments, as well as other amenities you might find in a larger district.

"I like the trendy vibe. I like the startup vibe of the south side," said Kevin Serfass, the vice president of the Serfass Companies, which encompass construction, development, and design.

Serfass told 69 News those amenities include a gym, media room, game room, cafe, and even spaces folks could rent out for collaborations.

"Basically, anything you'd find in a major market," Serfass said. "We want to bring it out here to the Lehigh Valley and offer that to the local residents."

Whelan said he's on the fence about the residential proposal.

"The building over here has been light industrial," he said. "They've been very, very quiet."

On the one hand, Whelan said he thinks residents could be quieter than a potentially noisy new industrial neighbor. But with the addition of a new apartment building, he says he's concerned about the issue of traffic.

"The traffic on Third Street, along Second Street here has grown significantly," Whelan said. "It really has, and it is an issue. And parking is an issue."

Serfass said his company plans on constructing the space to be more walk- and bike-friendly.

"We hope that residents will walk everywhere," he said. "Between bike storage, bike maintenance, through all that is to get people to not rely so much on their personal transportation."

Whelan told 69 News that another concern he's hearing from his neighbors is the idea of temporary tenants.

"If it's apartments, you're going to have people coming in and renting, stay here a while, then leaving," he said. "They're not really invested in the community."

But to that, Serfass said, it's why his plans call for such diverse amenities.

"We always certainly want to design apartments for people that stay," he said.

The Bethlehem City Council will meet at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, April 18, at Town Hall, 10 E. Church St. The meeting is open to the public and is available on a livestream.
Brian Armstrong, chief executive officer of Coinbase - Chris Ratcliffe/Bloomberg

Multi-billion dollar crypto exchange Coinbase is considering a move to the UK as Joe Biden punishes fintech firms in the US.

Americas failure to bring in a regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies is hitting the industry and could push Coinbase, which has 110 million users, to relocate, its chief executive has warned.

Speaking in conversation with former chancellor George Osborne at the Innovate Finance Global Summit on Tuesday, Brian Armstrong said: Silicon Valley has a resource curse.

He accused America of dragging its feet on crypto regulation, and likened lawmakers approach to when countries underperform economically despite having an abundance of natural resources.

Mr Armstrong said: They have the golden goose  and yet they want to punish these things  they take it for granted and try to extract as much as they can.

He added: The UK is our second largest market. We are not seeing regulatory clarity in the US. We may have to consider investing elsewhere. Anything is on the table, including relocating.

In an interview with BBC Radio 4 earlier on Tuesday morning, Mr Armstrong said that if he could relist his company, he would consider the London Stock Exchange over New York.

In a different world, going back, we may have considered it to be honest at this point, Mr Armstrong said.

The UK has an advantage over the US because the Financial Conduct Authority oversees both commodities and securities, whereas in America there is a turf battle between two separate regulators which have released contradictory statements, Mr Armstrong said.

Coinbase, which is so far the only publicly listed company in the crypto space in the US, may have to go through the American court system to get clarity on regulation, he added.

Mr Armstrongs comments followed a warning from Sir Jon Cunliffe, deputy governor of the Bank of England, on Monday that cash would become less useable as shops increasingly reject banknotes.

The Bank is consulting on the introduction of a digital pound and is exploring the possibilities of a system of stablecoins  cryptocurrencies that are backed by a central bank currency  as the use of cash declines.
NORTHAMPTON, Pa. - Northampton County District Attorney Terry Houck announced that his office collected a total of 248 firearms at its second gun buyback event over the weekend.

"People say, 'Well, you're only getting a few guns.' Well, anything that you can do to take away an accidental or misplaced gun or firing that would hurt somebody accidentally, or, however, is a good thing for the borough, said Tony Pristash, Mayor of Northampton Borough.

People who turned in guns were given grocery gift cards worth between $50 and $200, depending on the weapon's condition. The DA's office said over $9,000 in gift cards were distributed during the event. The volume caught Northampton's mayor off guard.

"I was surprised to see the guns because you never know what people have out there. But, now the town's a little safer. We're very happy for that, said Mayor Pristash.

Weapons collected include rifles, pistols, variations of shotguns, and multiple boxes of ammunition. Officials said weapons were investigated through a national crime database to determine if any were possible evidence in unsolved crimes. The DA said one of the pistols came back registered stolen from California.

"The California police department involved had asked for this gun to be sent to them for further investigation, said Houck.

Another weapon found is what the DA's office called an "apparent British Sten submachine gun, a firearm often used during WWII. According to the DA, remaining firearms will be destroyed in the coming days.
LEHIGH TWP., Pa. - The driver of a school van in Northampton County was hurt after the vehicle crashed into a utility pole, tree and fence Tuesday afternoon.

Crews responded to the crash on Mountain View Drive (Route 946), at Bayberry Drive in Lehigh Township around 2:30 p.m., according to Police Chief Scott Fogel.

An East Stroudsburg man who was driving the Colonial Intermediate Unit transport van was taken to a local hospital, Fogel said.

A 4-year-old child who was in the van had minor injuries, according to Fogel.

The transport van was traveling southbound, left the roadway, and then collided with a utility pole, tree and fence, Fogel said.

The cause of the crash is under investigation.
WASHINGTON - Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman is back on Capitol Hill for the first time since seeking inpatient treatment. Fetterman spent six weeks at Walter Reed Medical Center.

It was a proud moment for Fetterman who was seen returning to Capitol Hill with a brief but positive entrance, saying "Great to be back. Thank you."

The Pennsylvania Democrat did not answer questions from reporters ahead of his first day back on the job after a weeks-long absence.

The 53-year-old senator suffered a stroke last year just before the May primary.

Chris Borick, a Professor of Political Science at Muhlenberg College, called the senator brave.

"From a physical health perspective, he dealt with an issue in a very tough and difficult environment, and that is a campaign, by itself exhausting and mentally challenging," said Borick.

Borick says the role of senator is "an extremely stressful job."

"He had to make a decision, a decision that we have not seen senators make in the past to publicly announce that he was fighting a mental health challenge," said Borick.

Borick says he is looking forward to seeing Fetterman back in the role Pennsylvania votors elected him to do.

"He is going to find himself right in the middle of the activities that go on in a normal session. He's charging a committee on food security issues, so he will be immersed in the congressional hearing process," Borick continued.

The work is starting now, but not before a warm welcome back from Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer.

"We're all glad he got the support he needed and he's sending an important message to millions of Americans that asking for and getting help works," said Sen. Schumer.

Fetterman has been using closed captioning technology since suffering his stroke. Now, his staff also confirmed he has been fitted for hearing aids to help with an auditory processing disorder.
LANSDALE, Pa. - A Montgomery County man is facing first-, second-, and third-degree murder charges in a fatal shooting in Lansdale.

It happened in the 400 block of Walnut Street in the apartment of a woman who had a relationship with both the shooter and the victim. The shots rang out at the Madison Ave. Apartments shortly after 11 p.m. Monday.

Across the street, Cory Fryer said his brother heard it all.

"My brother, he was, he said around 11:30 he heard three shots, then the first, the second, one shot, then three more shots, and then finally someone came out and said they needed an ambulance," said Fryer.

That ambulance was for 21-year-old Christopher Moore. The Montgomery County District Attorney's Office said Moore broke into Hailee Duerson-Skeleton's apartment. The two have multiple children together.

Moore apparently crawled in through a bathroom window, and then shot Duerson-Skeleton's new boyfriend  21-year-old Wesley Smith  multiple times, the district attorney said. Smith was armed as well and fired back, hitting Moore multiple times.

Moore is currently being treated at Jefferson Hospital in Philadelphia. Smith was pronounced dead at the scene.

Fryer said the incident makes him feel unsafe in his own neighborhood.

"Is it really coming to that? Where everybody needs a sidearm to feel safe walking down their neighborhood?" said Fryer.

Police recovered both guns from the crime scene. Fryer said it's not the first violent incident to happen in the neighborhood since he moved in a year and a half ago.

"We've had about four or five incidents just on this block over the past year and a half," Fryer said. "It's just  it's awful to see."

Fryer said he hopes this is the last time he has to deal with police lights outside his front door.

"You wish that these things could get settled with words instead of violence, you know?" said Fryer.

The district attorney's office said the autopsy of Wesley Smith showed he died from multiple gunshot wounds, and his death has been ruled a homicide.

Christopher Moore is still being treated at Jefferson Hospital in Philadelphia, but when he gets out, he'll be formally arraigned on six charges, including first-, second-, and third-degree murder.
BETHLEHEM, Pa. - A Bethlehem man is accused of attempting to sexually assault children.

Garry Bunting, 31, faces charges of attempted sexual assault, attempted endangering the welfare of a child, and attempted endangering the welfare of a child, according to a news release from the Warren County Prosecutor's Office.

Bunting had been accused in a separate investigation of communicating with a 16-year-old child through Snapchat, transporting her from Pennsylvania to New Jersey, and sexually assaulting her, the prosecutor's office said.

During that investigation, authorities seized several electronic devices. While searching a cellular device connected to a witness, law enforcement found multiple communications between Bunting and a witness, where Bunting said that he wanted to engage in sexual activity with an 11-year-old and a 15-year-old child, the prosecutor's office said.

He is in Warren County Jail pending a court appearance.

Bunting faces up to 25 years in prison.
TRENTON, N.J. - New Jersey's governor says masks are no longer mandated in health care facilities in the state.

Gov. Phil Murphy confirmed the lifting of the mask mandate on the "Ask Governor Murphy" call-in show on News 12 New Jersey.

The mandate had been in place since the COVID-19 pandemic began three years ago.

Even as the state relaxed some mask requirements, masks in health facilities such as hospitals and doctors offices remained mandatory.

Murphy stressed that facilities can still enforce mask mandates on their own.
BRUSSELS (AP)  Authorities in several European Union member states raided fashion houses Tuesday in an initial move linked to an EU antitrust probe, officials said.

The EU Commission said in a statement it was looking into whether some fashion industry players were involved in cartels and other restrictive business practices.

The Commission had already instigated inspections last year and in 2021 but said that Tuesday's action was unrelated.

The Commission did not name the companies or EU member states involved.
KHARTOUM, Sudan (AP)  Fighting raged in Sudan on Tuesday hours after an internationally brokered truce was supposed to have come into effect, as forces loyal to dueling generals battled for key locations in the capital and accused each other of violating the cease-fire.

The humanitarian truce came after days of intense efforts by top diplomats on four continents and had raised hopes of sparing Africa's third largest country from civil war. But each side still appeared determined to vanquish the other, despite the suffering of millions of civilians trapped by the fighting.

Residents said they still heard gunfire and explosions in different parts of the capital, Khartoum, particularly around the militarys headquarters and the Republican Palace. They said few people had ventured out, though there were crowds outside some bakeries.

The fighting remains underway, Atiya Abdulla Atiya of the Sudan Doctors Syndicate told The Associated Press. We are hearing constant gunfire.

Sudanese in the capital and in other cities have been hiding in their homes, caught in the crossfire as rival forces pounded residential areas with artillery and airstrikes and engaged in gunbattles outside. Residents say dead bodies in the streets are unreachable because of clashes, with the toll likely to be far higher than the 185 dead reported by the U.N. since fighting began Saturday.

The conflict between the armed forces, led by Gen. Abdel Fattah Burhan, and a paramilitary group known as the Rapid Support Forces, led by Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, has once again derailed Sudan's transition to democratic rule after decades of dictatorship and civil war.

Pro-democracy groups and political parties had recently reached an agreement with the two generals  who jointly led a 2021 coup  but it was never signed and is now in tatters.

The RSF immediately accused the military of violating the cease-fire after it came into effect at 6 p.m. local time (1600 GMT). The army said the rebellious militia continued its attacks around the military headquarters and launched a failed attack on a military base to the south.

Atiya said the Fadil Hospital in Khartoum was hit by shelling after the truce took effect, damaging a medical gas pipeline and water systems. Its one of at least 12 hospitals in and around the capital that have been forced to shut down because of the fighting, out of a total of around 20.

The U.S. Embassy said late Tuesday that there has been ongoing fighting in Khartoum and surrounding areas, and advised Americans in Sudan to shelter in place. It said there were no immediate plans for a government-coordinated evacuation.

Over the past day, fighters in Khartoum attacked a U.S. Embassy convoy and stormed the home of the EU envoy to Sudan, though neither attack caused casualties. The convoy of clearly marked U.S. Embassy vehicles was attacked Monday, and preliminary reports link the assailants to the RSF, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters.

Blinken spoke by phone late Monday separately with both generals, seeking a 24-hour halt in fighting as a foundation for a longer truce and return to negotiations. Egypt, which backs the Sudanese military, and Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, which have close ties to the RSF, have also been calling on all sides to stand down.

Dagalo said in a series of tweets Tuesday that he had approved a 24-hour humanitarian truce after speaking to Blinken. The military initially said the coming hours would bring the crushing defeat of the RSF and only publicly committed to the truce after it began.

Shortly before the start of the cease-fire, a coalition of political parties and pro-democracy groups said it received positive positions from leaders of the military and the RSF on the daylong humanitarian pause. It said in a statement that discussions were underway to solidify that truce.

More tanks and armored vehicles belonging to the military rolled into Khartoum early Tuesday, heading toward the militarys headquarters and the Republican Palace, residents said. During the night, fighter jets swooped overhead and anti-aircraft fire lit up the sky.

Each side already has tens of thousands of troops distributed around Khartoum and the city of Omdurman on the opposite bank of the Nile River. Terrified residents trapped in their homes for days have hoped for a halt long enough at least to get supplies or move to safer areas. The fighting erupted suddenly at the start of the last week of the Islamic holy month of fasting, Ramadan.

We are trying to take advantage of Ramadan to try to continue our faith and prayer," said Mohammed Al Faki, one of 89 students and staffers trapped in the engineering building at Khartoum University. "We are trying to help each other stay patient until this crisis is over.

One student was killed by a sniper, he said, and they buried his body on the campus. The students and staff have had to go out for supplies occasionally, risking harassment by RSF fighters battling troops nearby, he said.

They are attacking us on the streets. They are looting. If you are walking, they will take even your phone from you in the street, the 19-year-old student said of the RSF.

U.N. figures have put the toll from fighting at more than 185 dead and 1,800 wounded, without providing a breakdown of civilians and combatants. The Sudan Doctors Syndicate said Tuesday that at least 144 civilians were killed and more than 1,400 wounded but that many dead could still not be reached to be counted.

Videos posted online Tuesday showed Souq al-Bahri, a large outdoor market in northern Khartoum, in flames from nearby clashes. Satellite images from Maxar Technologies taken Monday showed damage across Khartoum, including to security service buildings. Tanks stood guard at a bridge over the White Nile River and other locations.

Satellite images from Planet Labs PBC, also taken Monday, showed some 20 damaged civilian and military aircraft at Khartoum International Airport, which has a military section. Some had been completely destroyed, with one still belching smoke. At the El Obeid and Merowe air bases, north and south of Khartoum, several fighter jets were among the destroyed aircraft.

The European Unions foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, tweeted Monday that the EU ambassador to Sudan was assaulted in his own residency, without providing further details.

A Western diplomat in Cairo said the residence was ransacked by armed men in RSF uniforms. No one was hurt but the armed men stole several items, said the diplomat, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to talk to the media.

Early on Sunday, the Norwegian ambassadors residence was hit by a shell, causing damage but no injuries, Norwegian Foreign Minister Anniken Huitfeldt said.

The fighting is the latest chapter in Sudan's turmoil since a popular uprising four years ago helped depose long-time autocrat Omar al-Bashir.

Burhan and Dagalo jointly orchestrated an October 2021 coup, derailing efforts to enshrine a civilian government. Both generals have a long history of human rights abuses, and their forces have cracked down on pro-democracy activists.

Under international pressure, Burhan and Dagalo recently agreed to a framework agreement with political parties and pro-democracy groups. But the signing was repeatedly delayed as tensions rose over the integration of the RSF into the armed forces and the future chain of command  tensions that exploded into violence Saturday. ___ Magdy reported from Cairo. Associated Press writers Fay Abuelgasim in Beirut, Jon Gambrell in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and Matthew Lee in Karuizawa, Japan, contributed to this report.
NEW YORK, April 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- As more New Yorkers return to in-person work, there has been a significant increase in custom suiting sales. Workers are eager to update their wardrobes and create a professional image that reflects their personality and individual style.

BALANI Custom Clothiers (PRNewsfoto/BALANI Custom Clothiers - Suits, Tuxedos, & Shirts)

The demand for custom suits is driven by several factors, including the need to adapt to the evolving workplace and create a comfortable yet polished look. With the traditional office setting shifting, workers are seeking more modern and relaxed alternatives to the classic suit and tie.

According to a recent survey by The Partnership for New York City, as of mid-September 2022, 49% of Manhattan office workers were at their workplaces on an average weekday. This number is expected to increase in the coming months as the city continues to reopen and more companies invite their employees back to the office.

Custom suiting provides a unique opportunity for workers to express their personal style and create a professional image that sets them apart. With custom suiting, clients can choose from a wide range of fabrics, colors, and styles, ensuring a flawless fit that reflects their individual taste.

"We have seen a surge in custom suit sales in recent months as people return to the office," said Sonny Balani, CEO of BALANI Custom Clothiers. "Our professional stylists work closely with clients to create garments that are both comfortable and polished. We look forward to helping more New Yorkers make a statement with their professional attire."

Contact:

BALANI Custom Clothiers

Phone: (347) 708-9049

Email: newyork@balanicustom.com

Website: https://www.balanicustom.com/custom-suits-new-york/

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SOURCE BALANI Custom Clothiers - Suits, Tuxedos, & Shirts
WASHINGTON (AP)  Stepping gingerly over the lawn in their spiky heels, first lady Jill Biden and Yuko Kishida, the wife of Japan's prime minister, planted a cherry tree at the White House on Monday to honor decades of friendship between their countries.

This is how you always plant a tree," Biden said, laughing about their shoes as she and Kishida shoveled soil around the base of a Yoshino cherry tree sapling on the south grounds.

She welcomed Kishida to the White House and said, The planting of this tree is a symbol of the friendship between our two nations forever and ever.

It was their only public engagement of the day.

Kishida is on a rare solo visit to the United States. It's the first time the spouse of the prime minister has traveled alone to the United States, and Kishida visited at Biden's invitation, according to the Japanese embassy in Washington.

She is spending part of the week in Washington to promote friendship between the U.S. and Japan, as well as cultural exchanges, the Japanese government said.

The women met first over tea prepared by Kishida, who was given a tour of the White House by Biden, Japan's embassy said in a statement.

Biden took Kishida to the Oval Office to greet President Joe Biden, both governments said, and also hosted her for lunch. Among those invited to the women-only meal were Rep. Doris Matsui, D-Calif.; Maki Onuki, principal dancer at the Washington Ballet; and Akiko Iwasaki, immunology professor at Yale University School of Medicine, according to the first lady's office.

The new sapling is a Yoshino cherry tree that was propagated from a cutting from a cherry tree that was planted on the south grounds in July 2017, the White House said. It was planted near the East Wing. The White House has 23 other cherry trees across the 18 acres.

The meeting between Biden and Kishida was rescheduled from January when Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and President Biden met in the Oval Office. Kishida's wife accompanied him on the trip. But Jill Biden was unable to host Yuko Kishida at the time because the first lady was recovering from a surgical procedure performed two days earlier to remove several cancerous lesions from her skin.

It also comes before next week's state visit by South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and first lady, Kim Keon Hee.

President Biden has looked to build closer security cooperation with Japan and South Korea at a time of shared concerns about a restive North Korea and a more powerful China. He has sought opportunities to help the historic rivals improve their long, fraught relationship as the Indo-Pacific region becomes increasingly complicated.

In March, South Korea announced a plan to compensate Koreans who performed forced labor during Tokyos colonial rule that doesnt require Japanese companies to contribute to the reparations.

President Biden hailed the step as a "groundbreaking new chapter in cooperation between the countries. Yoon followed up by visiting Tokyo later in March for talks with Kishida. It was the first summit between the two nations leaders since 2011.

The U.S. and Japanese spouses also met several weeks before Kishida hosts the annual Group of Seven summit of leading industrialized nations, including the U.S., in mid-May in Hiroshima, Japan.

At the end of the meeting, Kishida said she hoped that she and the prime minister would be able to welcome the Bidens to the summit, her government said.

Associated Press writers Aamer Madhani in Washington and Mari Yamaguchi in Tokyo contributed to this report.
Sixt EV Fleet wrapped on Orafol orange by Out There Media

Sixt car rental arrived with a bang in Australia during Covid, in 2021. Partnering with the NRMA, RACV and others; Munich, Germany-headquartered Sixt is shaking up the car rental market, highlighting Electric Vehicles. Sixt partnered with Sydney wrap specialists Out There Media for branding its EVs - with Orafol's Oracal films for a striking, durable, professional look.

Full vinyl jacket - Sixt rental's BYD Atto 3 SUV EVs are wrapped in Oracal Municiple Orange

Out There Media is turning 20 years old in 2024 - and turning many heads with great design and installation on truck, bus and car fleets.

A full service print production and management company, Out There Media handles every aspect of the print production, design and installation process. Established in 2004, the Hurstville, Sydney specialises in the design, production and installation of large format digital printing. Its work can be seen in sporting venues and stadiums, hospitals, national shopping centre chains and retailers, commercial vehicle fleets and at cultural and branded events and festivals.

Out There chose Orafol's Oracal 970GRA in 351 Municipal Orange to wrap its newly-arrived fleet of BYD Atto3 SUVs. This was Drive magazine's EV Car of the Year (under $70K) for 2023 and is made in China by the company that supplies Tesla with its Lithium-Phosphate batteries. BYD stands for 'Build Your Dreams' - how appropriate!

www.orafol.com.au
EDMONTON, AB, April 18, 2023 /CNW/ - CWB Financial Group (TSX: CWB) (CWB) will release our second quarter 2023 results on May 26, 2023 via newswire at approximately 7:00 a.m. Eastern Time (ET) and CWB Management will host a conference call with analysts on the same day at 10:00 a.m ET. A copy of the news release, supplemental financial results and conference call presentation will be available in the Investor Relations section of our website at www.cwb.com/investor-relations/quarterly-reports.

CWB Financial Group Logo (CNW Group/CWB Financial Group)

Analyst conference call (Webcast)

https://app.webinar.net/R76nMn5w9km

Analyst conference call (Dial in)

(416) 764-8688 (Toronto) | 1 (888) 390-0546 (Toll-free)

Conference ID 07376453

Conference call replay

Available until 11:59 p.m. ET on Friday, June 2, 2023

(416) 764-8677 (Toronto) | 1 (888) 390-0541 (Toll-free)

Passcode 376453 #

Analysts who would like to pose questions and who have not been previously pre-qualified should call Chris Williams, AVP, Investor Relations at 780-508-8229.

About CWB Financial Group

CWB Financial Group (CWB) is the only full-service bank in Canada with a strategic focus to meet the unique financial needs of businesses and their owners. We provide our nation-wide clients with full-service business and personal banking, specialized financing, comprehensive wealth management offerings, and trust services. Clients choose CWB for a differentiated level of service through specialized expertise, customized solutions, and faster response times relative to the competition. Our people take the time to understand our clients and their business, and work as a united team to provide holistic solutions and advice.

As a public company on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX), CWB trades under the symbols "CWB" (common shares), "CWB.PR.B" (Series 5 preferred shares) and "CWB.PR.D" (Series 9 preferred shares). We are firmly committed to the responsible creation of value for all our stakeholders and our approach to sustainability will support our continued success. Learn more at www.cwb.com.

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SOURCE CWB Financial Group

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Polaris Market Research & Consulting LLP

Polaris Market Research has conducted a comprehensive 2023 research study spanning over [+115] pages, revealing that the global water storage systems market was valued at USD 16.25 Billion in 2022. The study predicts that the market will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.8% and is expected to reach USD 34.27 Billion By 2032. The fiberglass segment is expected to grow fastest at maximum CAGR during the anticipated period owing to its numerous advantages and beneficial features like light weight and high durability. Some of the top market players are CST Industries, ZCL Composites, McDermott International, Fiber Technology, Containment Solutions, Maguire Iron., Caldwell Tanks, Synder Industries and others.

New York, NY, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Polaris Market Research has published a new research report titled Water Storage Systems Market Share, Size, Trends, Industry Analysis Report, By Material (Steel, Fiberglass, Concrete, Plastic, and Others); By Application; By End-Use; By Region; Segment Forecast, 2023 - 2032 in its research database.

According to the latest research analysis, the global water storage systems market size/share is anticipated to be valued at approximately USD 16.25 Billion in 2022 and is projected to hit a revenue of around USD 34.27 Billion By 2032, at a CAGR of around 7.8% between 2023 and 2032.

How Much Are Water Storage Systems Market Worth? What is the Expected Size & Share of Water Storage Systems Industry?

Report Overview

The water storage systems market involves the manufacturing and distributing of various types of water storage tanks, containers, and reservoirs. These systems store water for different purposes, including agriculture, residential, commercial, and industrial applications. The market is driven by factors such as population growth, increasing urbanization, and the need for water conservation and management.

Water storage systems are designed to capture, store, and distribute water from various sources, such as rivers, lakes, and rainwater. These systems can range from small, household-level storage containers to large-scale reservoirs and dams that can hold millions of gallons of water.

Story continues

The use of water storage systems has numerous benefits, including providing a reliable source of water during periods of drought or low rainfall, improving water quality by reducing contaminants, and supporting irrigation and other agricultural practices. Additionally, water storage systems can help mitigate the impacts of floods and other extreme weather events by storing excess water and releasing it in a controlled manner.

Request Sample Copy of Water Storage Systems Market Research Report @ https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/water-storage-systems-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, a Table of Contents, a Graphical introduction of regional analysis, Top players in the market with their revenue analysis, and our research methodology.)

Our Sample Report Covers:

2032 Updated Report Introduction, Overview, and In-depth industry analysis.

115+ Pages Research Report (Inclusion of Updated Research).

Provide Chapter-wise guidance on Requests.

2023 Updated Regional Analysis with Graphical Representation of Size, Share & Trends

Includes Updated List of tables & figures.

Updated Report Includes Top Market Players with their Business Strategy, Sales Volume, and Revenue Analysis.

Some of the Top Market Players Are:

CST Industries

ZCL Composites

McDermott International

Fiber Technology

Containment Solutions

Maguire Iron.

Caldwell Tanks

Synder Industries

DN Tanks

Balmoral Tanks

American Tanks Company

Superior Tank

Preload

To Know Additional List of Key Players, Request Here to Download a Free Report PDF Brochure: https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/water-storage-systems-market/request-for-sample

Prominent Drivers of the market

Increasing Global Population: The global population is growing rapidly, particularly in APAC countries like India, China, and Bangladesh. This growth fuels the need for drinking water and water for agriculture, leading to an exponential increase in the demand for water storage systems.

Escalating Water Use in Industrial and Commercial Sectors: With the growth of urbanization and industrialization, water usage is increasing in the industrial and commercial sectors. This increase in demand for water is driving the water storage systems market size.

The emergence of Rainwater Harvesting: The trend of storing rainwater for various domestic and industrial applications is gaining popularity. This trend is expected to boost the demand for water storage systems.

Adoption of Plastic-Based Water Storage Systems: Plastic-based water storage systems are increasing due to their cost effectiveness, durability, and longer life. They are also environment-friendly, which is a prominent factor driving the water storage systems market growth.

Government Initiatives and Regulations: Various governments worldwide are implementing initiatives and regulations to promote sustainable water management practices and ensure access to safe drinking water. These initiatives are expected to drive the growth of the water storage system market.

Top Report Findings

Rise in water consumption within the industrial and commercial sectors, as well as the growing trend of rainwater harvesting.

The market is primarily segmented based on material, application, end-use, and region.

In the last few decades, the water storage systems market in the Asia Pacific region led the market.

Request for a Discount on this Report Before Purchase @ https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/water-storage-systems-market/request-for-discount-pricing

Top Trends Influencing the Market

Increased Demand for Sustainable Water Management Solutions: With the rising concerns about water scarcity and the importance of sustainable water management, the demand for innovative and eco-friendly water storage solutions is increasing.

Technological Advancements: Advancements in technology, such as the use of IoT, AI, and smart water storage systems, are driving the development of more efficient, automated, and cost-effective solutions for water storage and management.

Growing Popularity of Rainwater Harvesting: The popularity of rainwater harvesting is increasing, as it is a cost-effective and sustainable way to meet water demand for various applications.

Adoption of Plastic-based Water Storage Systems: The adoption of plastic-based water storage systems is increasing due to their lightweight, durability, and ease of installation.

Increased Demand from Residential and Commercial Sectors: With the growing urbanization and industrialization, the demand for water storage systems are increasing from both residential and commercial sectors to ensure a steady supply of clean and safe water.

Segmental Analysis

Over the projection period, the fiberglass segment is anticipated to experience the fastest growth

Based on material water storage systems market segmentation, the fiberglass segment is expected to dominate the market. Fiberglass-based structures offer superior mechanical strength and are highly resistant to degradation, driving their adoption in various water storage systems. Additionally, these structures are lightweight, highly durable, and have food-grade coatings, making them a preferred choice for long-term use. As a result, the fiberglass segment is expected to experience significant growth in the coming years.

Onsite water and wastewater collection segment is expected to maintain a significant share

Organic household waste encompasses biowaste, municipal, sewage, agricultural, and other similar categories. With its widespread availability globally, organic household waste has emerged as the market leader, holding the largest share. The biodegradation of organic matter, a crucial natural phenomenon in both land and marine habitats, further underscores the environmental significance of this category.

Inquire more about this report before purchase @ https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/water-storage-systems-market/inquire-before-buying

(Inquire about a report quote OR available discount offers to the sales team before purchase.)

Water Storage Systems Market: Report Scope & Coverage

Report Attribute Details Revenue forecast in 2032 USD 34.27 Billion Market size value in 2023 USD 17.43 Billion Expected CAGR Growth 7.8% from 2023  2032 Base Year 2022 Forecast Year 2023  2032 Top Market Players CST Industries Inc., ZCL Composites Inc., Synalloy Corporation, AG Growth International Inc., McDermott International Inc., Fiber Technology Corporation, Containment Solutions Inc., Maguire Iron Inc., Caldwell Tanks, Synder Industries, DN Tanks, Balmoral Tanks Limited, American Tanks Company Inc., Superior Tank Co. Inc., and Preload LLC. Segments Covered By Material, By Application, By End-Use, By Region Customization Options Customized purchase options are available to meet any research needs. Explore customized purchase options

Geographic Overview

Asia Pacific: The APAC region has undergone tremendous economic growth and rapid social development in recent decades. Effective water management and human capital enhancement will be critical in the region. The growth and demand for the water storage systems market are likely to be propelled by these factors.

North America: The North American region will grow significantly in the coming years. This is due to the wide utilization of water in countries like the US and Canada for commercial, industrial, irrigation, and residential applications. Additionally, the presence of one of the world's major gas reserves in the US contributes to this growth projection.

Browse the Detail Report Water Storage Systems Market Share, Size, Trends, Industry Analysis Report, By Material (Steel, Fiberglass, Concrete, Plastic, and Others); By Application; By End-Use; By Region; Segment Forecast, 2023 - 2032 with in-depth TOC: https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/water-storage-systems-market

For Additional Information OR Media Enquiry, Please Mail At: sales@polarismarketresearch.com

Recent Developments

Prayag recently released new water tanks in January 2022 that is extra strong, durable, and virtually unbreakable due to implementing the latest Rotomoulding technology, reinforced with strong corners and ribs for additional strength.

TRUFLO also announced the launch of water storage tanks from their Telangana plant in March 2022 to fulfill the demand of the southern market, starting with a production capacity of 45 lakh liters per month, which will increase with growing demand.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is a water storage system?

What are the key drivers of the market?

Who are the water storage systems market key players?

Which region is expected to dominate the market?

What are the recent developments that took place in the market?

What factors are responsible for the growth of the market?

Polaris Market Research has segmented the water storage systems market report based on material, application, end-use, and region:

By Material Outlook

Steel

Fiberglass

Concrete

Plastic

Others

By Application Outlook

Hydraulic Fracture Storage & Collection

Onsite Water & Wastewater Collection

Portable Water Storage Systems

Rainwater Harvesting & Collection

Others

By End-use Method Outlook

Residential

Commercial

Industrial

Municipal

By Region Outlook

North America (U.S., Canada)

Europe (France, Germany, UK, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Russia)

Asia Pacific (Japan, China, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, South Korea)

Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, Argentina)

Middle East & Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Israel, South Africa)

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Its a long way from the library in Portage, Wisconsin and the British Library in London, England. Its some distance from Portages St. Mary Catholic School and Londons Westminster Abbey. Its about 3,937 miles from Portages historic canal and Londons historic River Thames.

But, then again, its not far at all.

For someone with a dream, a goal, some determination, and hard work, the distance between small town Portage and big city London can reside inside both places inspiring and propelling one to better days; days in which dreams are fulfilling and fulfilled.

Such is the case with Elizabeth Eulberg. She grew up in Portage and is now the bestselling author of middle grade and young adult novels. She resides in London.

There are many moments in life that no matter what you want to do  writer, athlete, veterinarian, teacher  where youre going to want to give up. Where someone is going to ask you to do more work because you can do better, Eulberg said. And the thing you have to do is not give up, dig your heels in, and not be afraid to put in the work. If you do, youll achieve your goal.

Eulbergs goal to be a full-time writer has been achieved. And, she keeps achieving. She just finished a third Scared Silly book. Shes working on a rom-com for adult readers. Shes working on a screenplay, too. All this, with a robust resume that includes nine young-adult novels and a bevy of middle grade books, including a Sherlock Holmes-inspired collection of The Great Shelby Holmes books, about a precocious 9-year-old sixth-grader.

Eulberg was a kid herself, once. Not that long ago, actually, in the town of Portage. Many residents might know her by her last name: Eulberg. There was the long-standing brewery back in the day. There was her father who owned, appropriately named, Eulbergs, a clothing store in town that was in the family since 1929. There was her mother who taught for a time and was, for a time, the librarian at Portage High School. There were, also, her three older siblings; she, being the youngest of four.

The challenge for me, Eulberg said, was that it was hard to get my own identity. I always got, Youre Daves kid and my teachers associated me with my older siblings. I think thats why I focused on music so much as a kid. It made me stand out in a good way.

Growing up, music was Eulbergs passion. She played piano, clarinet, drums. She played in the orchestra, in pep band, in jazz band, and more.

This isnt to say she didnt love growing up in Portage, as she tried to find herself there. I loved Portage, she said. Theres a sense of pride I have in growing up there. She reminisces about walking to school at St. Mary Catholic School. She reminisces about summers  riding her bike with her best friend, Tara. She reminisces about the public librarys summer programs, theatre, parks and rec opportunities, and more.

She loved growing up in Portage so much that it was the basis for one of her books. The Best Worst Summer is about four children, two summers, and one box of secrets.

Though she had dyslexia and auditory processing issues growing up, the secret into books, literature, reading, and writing didnt fully unlock until she began attending Portage High School. She remembers that her high school English teacher, Mr. Bradley, encouraged her; suggested to her that she be in Honors English. Eulberg said, Mr. Bradley had confidence in me and boosted my own.

Mr. Tentis, her music teacher, also played a pivotal role in growing up.

The music room was a safe space and he was always there for you, she recalled.

Id be remiss not to mention my high school librarian, Eulberg said. The librarian helped her figure out what she could do after high school. She learned about public relations. She left for New York City to work in the publishing industry. I should mention, Eulberg said with a wink, that the librarian was my mother and please note that she didnt play favorites.

Yes, young Elizabeth would get a stern hush if she talked in the library.

Now, Portage libraries can house Elizabeth Eulbergs own books, as she pens others not far from the British Library, Westminster Abbey, and the River Thames, in her own house, Wisconsin in her heart.
Canoo Inc. (NYSE:GOEV  Get Rating) was the target of unusually large options trading on Monday. Stock investors acquired 18,277 call options on the stock. This is an increase of approximately 66% compared to the typical volume of 10,992 call options.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the company. ETF Managers Group LLC purchased a new position in shares of Canoo in the third quarter worth about $330,000. AXA S.A. purchased a new position in shares of Canoo in the third quarter worth about $865,000. Independent Wealth Network Inc. purchased a new position in shares of Canoo in the third quarter worth about $131,000. Bayesian Capital Management LP purchased a new position in shares of Canoo in the third quarter worth about $133,000. Finally, MetLife Investment Management LLC raised its stake in shares of Canoo by 166.0% in the third quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC now owns 96,007 shares of the companys stock worth $180,000 after purchasing an additional 59,908 shares during the last quarter. 52.50% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Canoo Price Performance

NYSE GOEV traded up $0.07 during trading on Monday, hitting $0.75. The companys stock had a trading volume of 25,609,584 shares, compared to its average volume of 20,665,721. Canoo has a fifty-two week low of $0.50 and a fifty-two week high of $5.26. The company has a market cap of $353.99 million, a PE ratio of -0.39 and a beta of 1.20. The businesss 50 day simple moving average is $0.71 and its 200-day simple moving average is $1.10.

About Canoo

Canoo Inc, a mobility technology company, designs, engineers, develops, and manufactures electric vehicles for commercial and consumer markets in the United States. The company offers lifestyle delivery vehicles, lifestyle vehicles, multi-purpose delivery vehicles, and pickups. It also provides multi-purpose platform architecture is a self-contained, fully functional rolling chassis design to support various range of vehicle weight and ride profiles.

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ACR Alpine Capital Research LLC trimmed its stake in Five Point Holdings, LLC (NYSE:FPH  Get Rating) by 5.2% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 534,502 shares of the companys stock after selling 29,172 shares during the period. Five Point comprises about 0.1% of ACR Alpine Capital Research LLCs investment portfolio, making the stock its 27th biggest position. ACR Alpine Capital Research LLC owned about 0.36% of Five Point worth $1,245,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Delta Investment Management LLC lifted its position in Five Point by 2.2% in the third quarter. Delta Investment Management LLC now owns 233,080 shares of the companys stock worth $606,000 after purchasing an additional 5,000 shares during the period. Credit Suisse AG boosted its position in shares of Five Point by 14.0% during the 2nd quarter. Credit Suisse AG now owns 49,538 shares of the companys stock valued at $193,000 after acquiring an additional 6,095 shares in the last quarter. Lazard Asset Management LLC bought a new stake in Five Point in the first quarter valued at about $37,000. First Manhattan Co. raised its position in Five Point by 36.4% in the third quarter. First Manhattan Co. now owns 37,500 shares of the companys stock worth $97,000 after purchasing an additional 10,000 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS bought a new position in Five Point during the first quarter worth about $62,000. Institutional investors own 30.70% of the companys stock.

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Five Point Trading Down 1.3 %

NYSE FPH opened at $2.29 on Tuesday. Five Point Holdings, LLC has a 1-year low of $1.88 and a 1-year high of $6.16. The stocks 50 day moving average is $2.27 and its two-hundred day moving average is $2.30. The company has a market capitalization of $339.42 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -9.54 and a beta of 1.35.

Five Point Company Profile

Five Point ( NYSE:FPH Get Rating ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, January 19th. The company reported $0.15 earnings per share for the quarter. Five Point had a positive return on equity of 0.22% and a negative net margin of 36.08%. The firm had revenue of $17.00 million for the quarter.

(Get Rating)

Five Point Holdings LLC engages in the development and design of mixed-use, master-planned communities that combine residential, commercial, retail, educational, and recreational elements with public amenities. It operates through the following segments: Valencia, San Francisco, Great Park, and Commercial.

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Want to see what other hedge funds are holding FPH? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Five Point Holdings, LLC (NYSE:FPH  Get Rating).

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According to Fortune Business Insights, the global Digital Signature Market size is projected to reach USD 43.14 Billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 35.1% during the forecast period, 2023-2030

Pune, India, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global digital signature market size was valued at USD 3.92 billion in 2022. The market is projected to grow from USD 5.25 billion in 2023 to USD 43.14 billion in 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 35.1% during the forecast period. Increasing digitalization in various industries has affected the workflow, which has given rise to dematerialization. Adoption of such technology in various developing and developed countries is expected to facilitate market development. Fortune Business Insights shares this information in its report titled Digital Signature Market Forecast, 2023-2030.

Key Industry Development

September 2022- IDnow partnered with Adobe Document Cloud to make identity verification of verified signatures easier and more secure. The IDnow integration allows Adobe Acrobat Sign users in validating their identity using either IDnow videoident or autoident and legally build binding electronic signatures after the solution is deployed.





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Report Scope & Segmentation

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2023 to 2030 Forecast Period 2021 to 2028 CAGR 35.1% 2030 Value Projection USD 43.14 Billion Base Year 2022 Digital Signature Market Size in 2022 USD 3.92 Billion Historical Data for 2019 to 2021 No. of Pages 140 Segments covered Deployment, Enterprise Size, Level End-user and Geography Digital Signature Market Growth Drivers Need for Seamless Workflow in Various Sectors to Drive Market Trajectory





Key Takeaways

Integration of digital signature in block chain technology provides the market with various growth prospects.

A digital signature helps to prove the origin, identity, and status of an electronic document, transaction, or digital message.

Blockchain Technology in Digital Signature to be a Prominent Market Trend

By Deployment Analysis: Growing Developments in Cloud Technology to Boost Cloud-based Digital Signature Demand

Digital Signature Market North America was USD 1.62 Billion in 2022

Story continues













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Drivers and Restraints

Need for Seamless Workflow in Various Sectors to Drive Market Trajectory

Need for improved security, operational efficiency, and seamless workflow is anticipated to drive the digital signature market growth. In sectors, such as banking and insurance, retail, real estate, and government, the digital information transferred should be highly secure as it is of utmost importance. Therefore, transactions in large organizations need to be secure. The technology of digital signature is considered ideal for highly regulated industries as it can prove the integrity and authenticity of the document.

However, lack of awareness regarding the benefits and legality of such signatures is anticipated to hinder market development.

Segments

AES Segment to Dictate as it Offers High Level of Security

On the basis of level, the market is segmented into Advanced Electronic Signatures (AES) and Qualified Electronic Signatures (QES). AES held a major part in 2022 as it offers a higher level of security.

With Rise in Technological Developments, Cloud-based to Lead the Segment

Based on deployment, the market is segmented into on-premises and cloud. Cloud to have highest share due to rising technological developments and demand for cloud-based solutions. On-premises segment is also expected to hold a prominent share due to concerns regarding cloud security.

Owing to Growing Implementation, Large Enterprises to Lead the Segment

Based on enterprise size, the market is segmented into small & medium enterprises and large enterprises. Large enterprises to have the highest share in the segment due to growing implementation of e-business and paperless system.

Owing to Rapid Shift toward Digital Platforms, BFSI to Have Exponential Growth

Based on end user, the market is segmented into BFSI, IT & telecom, government, healthcare & life science, education, retail, real estate, and others. BFSI segment to have exponential growth due to rapid shift toward the digital platform to provide streamlined services to their clients.

Geographically, the market is segmented across five major regions, North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, and the Middle East & Africa.





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Regional Insights

North America to Lead Market as it is the Early Adopter of Digital Technologies

North America is expected to dominate the digital signature market share as the region is the early adopter of digital technologies. The region reached a valuation of USD 1.62 billion in 2022 as electronic signatures are legal in the U.S. where federal law applies, according to the U.S. Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce (ESIGN) Act of 2000.

Asia Pacific is also expected to have significant growth due to increasing government initiatives to improve digitalization across industries. In China, the government has proposed E-Signature Law and highly promotes digitized signatures for documentation.

Europe is anticipated to have a prominent share due to increasing e-business systems across industries.

Competitive Landscape

Onespan, Inc. Partnered with Belgium Mobile ID (itsme) for the Implementation of Qualified E-Signatures

Key market players are OneSpan Inc., Thales Group, Ascertia, DocuSign Inc., Adobe Inc., and more. The companies have been investing in mobile-based apps for digital signing solutions and digital signature creator, which also offer free service for some of the documents. In March 2021, OneSpan, Inc. partnered with the Belgium mobile ID (itsme) for the implementation of Qualified E-Signatures by issuing certificate-based digital IDs that can validate the identity signers (QES). This partnership will help the clients to operate with flexibility with even more TSPs while maintaining the highest standards of signer authentication compliance and assurance.

List of Key Players Profiled in the Report

Adobe, Inc. (U.S.)

OneSpan, Inc. (U.S.)

DocuSign, Inc. (U.S.)

Thales Group (France)

ASSA ABLOY (Sweden)

GlobalSign, Inc. (Belgium)

Entrust Corporation (U.S.)

Ascertia Limited (Surrey)

SIGNiX, Inc. (U.S.)

IDEMIA (France)





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Major Table of Contents:

Global Digital Signature Market Size Estimates and Forecasts, By Segments, 2019-2030 Key Findings By Deployment (USD) Cloud On-premise By Enterprise Size (USD) SMEs Large Enterprises By Level (USD) Advanced Electronic Signatures (AES) Qualified Electronic Signatures (QES) By End User (USD) BFSI IT & Telecom Government Healthcare & Life Sciences Education Retail/E-Commerce Real Estate Others (Defense & Legal) By Region (USD) North America Europe Asia Pacific Middle East & Africa South America

North America Digital Signature Market Size Estimates and Forecasts, By Segments, 2019-2030 Key Findings By Deployment (USD) Cloud On-premise By Enterprise Size (USD) SMEs Large Enterprises By Level (USD) Advanced Electronic Signatures (AES) Qualified Electronic Signatures (QES) By End User (USD) BFSI IT & Telecom Government Healthcare & Life Sciences Education Retail/E-Commerce Real Estate Others (Defense & Legal) By Country (USD) United States Canada Mexico

Europe Digital Signature Market Size Estimates and Forecasts, By Segments, 2019-2030 Key Findings By Deployment (USD) Cloud On-premise By Enterprise Size (USD) SMEs Large Enterprises By Level (USD) Advanced Electronic Signatures (AES) Qualified Electronic Signatures (QES) By End User (USD) BFSI IT & Telecom Government Healthcare & Life Sciences Education Retail/E-Commerce Real Estate Others



TOC Continued.





FAQs

How big is the Digital Signature Market?

Digital Signature Market size was USD 3.92 billion in 2022

How fast is the Digital Signature Market growing?

The Digital Signature Market will exhibit a CAGR of 35.1% during the forecast period, 2023-2030





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Altfest L J & Co. Inc. lowered its position in shares of The Bank of New York Mellon Co. (NYSE:BK  Get Rating) by 18.8% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 5,833 shares of the banks stock after selling 1,353 shares during the period. Altfest L J & Co. Inc.s holdings in Bank of New York Mellon were worth $266,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in BK. Bank of Montreal Can lifted its position in shares of Bank of New York Mellon by 51.6% in the 4th quarter. Bank of Montreal Can now owns 811,323 shares of the banks stock worth $36,996,000 after purchasing an additional 276,039 shares during the period. Meritage Portfolio Management lifted its position in shares of Bank of New York Mellon by 4.8% in the 4th quarter. Meritage Portfolio Management now owns 98,444 shares of the banks stock worth $4,481,000 after purchasing an additional 4,538 shares during the period. Portland Global Advisors LLC lifted its position in shares of Bank of New York Mellon by 4.0% in the 4th quarter. Portland Global Advisors LLC now owns 75,348 shares of the banks stock worth $3,430,000 after purchasing an additional 2,909 shares during the period. Schneider Downs Wealth Management Advisors LP purchased a new stake in shares of Bank of New York Mellon in the 4th quarter worth about $338,000. Finally, Van Strum & Towne Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Bank of New York Mellon in the 4th quarter worth about $228,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 82.29% of the companys stock.

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Bank of New York Mellon Stock Performance

BK opened at $44.23 on Tuesday. The company has a current ratio of 0.66, a quick ratio of 0.66 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.86. The company has a market cap of $35.37 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 15.25, a PEG ratio of 1.22 and a beta of 1.07. The companys 50 day moving average is $47.66 and its 200 day moving average is $45.60. The Bank of New York Mellon Co. has a 12-month low of $36.22 and a 12-month high of $52.26.

Bank of New York Mellon Dividend Announcement

Bank of New York Mellon ( NYSE:BK Get Rating ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Friday, January 13th. The bank reported $1.30 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.22 by $0.08. Bank of New York Mellon had a net margin of 12.87% and a return on equity of 10.78%. The business had revenue of $3.92 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $4.12 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $1.04 earnings per share. The companys revenue for the quarter was down 2.4% on a year-over-year basis. On average, equities research analysts predict that The Bank of New York Mellon Co. will post 4.74 EPS for the current year.

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, May 11th. Stockholders of record on Friday, April 28th will be issued a $0.37 dividend. This represents a $1.48 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.35%. Bank of New York Mellons dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 51.03%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several equities research analysts have recently commented on the stock. StockNews.com started coverage on shares of Bank of New York Mellon in a research report on Thursday, March 16th. They issued a hold rating for the company. Wolfe Research raised shares of Bank of New York Mellon from a peer perform rating to an outperform rating and set a $60.00 price target for the company in a research report on Wednesday, January 4th. Royal Bank of Canada lowered their price target on shares of Bank of New York Mellon from $49.00 to $44.00 and set a sector perform rating for the company in a research report on Friday, March 24th. Morgan Stanley lowered their price target on shares of Bank of New York Mellon from $49.00 to $46.00 and set an underweight rating for the company in a research report on Monday, April 3rd. Finally, Evercore ISI lowered their price target on shares of Bank of New York Mellon from $53.00 to $46.00 and set an in-line rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, April 5th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have issued a hold rating and six have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Bank of New York Mellon has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $51.46.

About Bank of New York Mellon

(Get Rating)

The Bank of New York Mellon Corp. is a bank holding company, which engages in the provision of financial services. It operates through the following segments: Securities Services, Market and Wealth Services, Investment and Wealth Management, and Other segment. The Securities Services segment includes Asset Servicing business, which provides global custody, fund accounting, integrated middle-office solutions, transfer agency and data and analytics solutions.

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Apartment Income REIT Corp. (NYSE:AIRC  Get Rating) has been assigned an average recommendation of Moderate Buy from the ten ratings firms that are presently covering the company, Marketbeat Ratings reports. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation and four have assigned a buy recommendation to the company. The average 1 year price objective among brokers that have issued a report on the stock in the last year is $42.33.

Several research firms have commented on AIRC. Mizuho upped their price objective on Apartment Income REIT from $41.00 to $45.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, February 23rd. BMO Capital Markets raised Apartment Income REIT from an underperform rating to a market perform rating and set a $39.00 target price for the company in a research note on Wednesday, March 15th. Finally, Wolfe Research began coverage on Apartment Income REIT in a research note on Monday, January 23rd. They set an outperform rating and a $39.00 target price for the company.

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Insider Buying and Selling at Apartment Income REIT

In other Apartment Income REIT news, insider Keith M. Kimmel sold 8,000 shares of the stock in a transaction on Wednesday, March 15th. The stock was sold at an average price of $35.75, for a total transaction of $286,000.00. Following the sale, the insider now owns 34,345 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,227,833.75. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this link. In other news, insider Keith M. Kimmel sold 8,000 shares of Apartment Income REIT stock in a transaction on Wednesday, March 15th. The stock was sold at an average price of $35.75, for a total value of $286,000.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now owns 34,345 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,227,833.75. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Also, Director John D. Rayis acquired 1,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, March 17th. The stock was acquired at an average cost of $34.48 per share, with a total value of $34,480.00. Following the transaction, the director now owns 9,412 shares of the companys stock, valued at $324,525.76. The disclosure for this purchase can be found here. 0.89% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Apartment Income REIT

Apartment Income REIT Stock Up 2.6 %

A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in AIRC. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. grew its position in shares of Apartment Income REIT by 7.8% in the first quarter. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. now owns 10,859 shares of the companys stock valued at $581,000 after purchasing an additional 784 shares during the period. Natixis Advisors L.P. grew its position in Apartment Income REIT by 39.1% during the first quarter. Natixis Advisors L.P. now owns 15,307 shares of the companys stock valued at $818,000 after acquiring an additional 4,306 shares during the period. Allianz Asset Management GmbH grew its position in Apartment Income REIT by 11.2% during the first quarter. Allianz Asset Management GmbH now owns 329,852 shares of the companys stock valued at $17,634,000 after acquiring an additional 33,198 shares during the period. Vanguard Group Inc. grew its position in Apartment Income REIT by 0.5% during the first quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 22,913,074 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,224,933,000 after acquiring an additional 119,016 shares during the period. Finally, Cibc World Markets Corp grew its position in Apartment Income REIT by 0.7% during the first quarter. Cibc World Markets Corp now owns 79,022 shares of the companys stock valued at $4,225,000 after acquiring an additional 543 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 99.35% of the companys stock.

AIRC opened at $36.09 on Tuesday. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $36.58 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $36.59. The company has a quick ratio of 0.33, a current ratio of 0.33 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.40. The company has a market cap of $5.38 billion, a PE ratio of 6.19 and a beta of 0.90. Apartment Income REIT has a 52 week low of $32.51 and a 52 week high of $55.82.

Apartment Income REIT Announces Dividend

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, February 28th. Investors of record on Friday, February 17th were issued a $0.45 dividend. This represents a $1.80 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 4.99%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, February 16th. Apartment Income REITs dividend payout ratio is currently 30.87%.

Apartment Income REIT Company Profile

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AIR is a real estate investment trust focused on the ownership and management of quality apartment communities located in the largest markets in the United States. AIR is one of the country's largest owners and operators of apartments, with 99 communities in 12 states and the District of Columbia.

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Arista Networks (NYSE:ANET  Get Rating) had its price target lifted by Morgan Stanley from $140.00 to $150.00 in a research note issued to investors on Friday, The Fly reports. They currently have an equal weight rating on the technology companys stock.

Several other research firms have also issued reports on ANET. Barclays lifted their target price on Arista Networks from $165.00 to $177.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Tuesday, February 14th. JMP Securities boosted their target price on shares of Arista Networks from $135.00 to $165.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, February 14th. Wells Fargo & Company lifted their price target on shares of Arista Networks from $170.00 to $200.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Wednesday, March 22nd. Credit Suisse Group lifted their target price on shares of Arista Networks from $140.00 to $146.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Tuesday, February 14th. Finally, Cowen lifted their price objective on Arista Networks from $212.00 to $225.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Tuesday, February 14th. Six analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and fifteen have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $176.70.

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Arista Networks Price Performance

ANET opened at $163.42 on Friday. Arista Networks has a one year low of $89.11 and a one year high of $171.44. The firm has a market capitalization of $50.07 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 38.27, a PEG ratio of 2.21 and a beta of 1.26. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $150.83 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $132.18.

Insider Activity

Arista Networks ( NYSE:ANET Get Rating ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Monday, February 13th. The technology company reported $1.41 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.21 by $0.20. Arista Networks had a return on equity of 30.00% and a net margin of 30.87%. The company had revenue of $1.28 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.20 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $0.66 earnings per share. Arista Networkss revenue was up 54.7% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, sell-side analysts expect that Arista Networks will post 5.22 EPS for the current fiscal year.

In related news, Director Charles H. Giancarlo sold 2,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, February 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $125.51, for a total value of $251,020.00. Following the completion of the sale, the director now owns 86,946 shares in the company, valued at approximately $10,912,592.46. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. In related news, Director Charles H. Giancarlo sold 2,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Wednesday, February 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $125.51, for a total transaction of $251,020.00. Following the transaction, the director now owns 86,946 shares of the companys stock, valued at $10,912,592.46. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, SVP Kenneth Duda sold 20,000 shares of Arista Networks stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, April 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $161.52, for a total value of $3,230,400.00. Following the sale, the senior vice president now directly owns 3,244 shares in the company, valued at $523,970.88. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last ninety days, insiders have sold 322,687 shares of company stock valued at $48,091,876. Company insiders own 19.59% of the companys stock.

Institutional Trading of Arista Networks

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the stock. GPS Wealth Strategies Group LLC acquired a new position in Arista Networks during the first quarter worth $690,000. Jacobs & Co. CA bought a new stake in Arista Networks during the first quarter worth about $240,000. Heartland Bank & Trust Co increased its stake in Arista Networks by 87.2% in the first quarter. Heartland Bank & Trust Co now owns 9,158 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $1,537,000 after acquiring an additional 4,265 shares during the last quarter. Czech National Bank raised its holdings in shares of Arista Networks by 0.6% during the 1st quarter. Czech National Bank now owns 29,152 shares of the technology companys stock worth $4,893,000 after buying an additional 166 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Valeo Financial Advisors LLC bought a new position in shares of Arista Networks in the first quarter worth about $200,000. 64.30% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

About Arista Networks

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Arista Networks, Inc engages in the business of developing, marketing, and selling cloud networking solutions. The firm is also involved in switching and routing platforms and related network applications. The company was founded by Andreas Bechtolsheim, David Cheriton, and Kenneth Duda in November 2004 and is headquartered in Santa Clara, CA.

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Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. (NYSE:BLX  Get Rating) is set to post its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, April 19th.

Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. (NYSE:BLX  Get Rating) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Monday, February 27th. The bank reported $0.85 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. had a return on equity of 8.89% and a net margin of 26.20%. The business had revenue of $53.19 million for the quarter.

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Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. Stock Performance

Shares of BLX opened at $18.53 on Tuesday. The company has a current ratio of 2.50, a quick ratio of 1.01 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 4.13. The firm has a market cap of $671.34 million, a PE ratio of 7.32 and a beta of 1.16. Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. has a 12 month low of $12.58 and a 12 month high of $19.17. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $17.34 and a 200-day moving average price of $16.36.

Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. Dividend Announcement

Analyst Ratings Changes

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, March 28th. Shareholders of record on Friday, March 10th were paid a $0.25 dividend. This represents a $1.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 5.40%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, March 9th. Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A.s dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 39.53%.

Separately, StockNews.com initiated coverage on Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. in a research note on Thursday, March 16th. They set a hold rating on the stock.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

An institutional investor recently raised its position in Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. stock. Thomas White International Ltd. boosted its position in Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. (NYSE:BLX  Get Rating) by 0.3% during the first quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 353,718 shares of the banks stock after buying an additional 1,021 shares during the period. Thomas White International Ltd. owned approximately 0.98% of Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. worth $5,510,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. 7.19% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. Company Profile

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Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A., a multinational bank, primarily engages in the financing of foreign trade in Latin America and the Caribbean. The company operates through two segments, Commercial and Treasury. It offers short and medium-term bilateral loans, structured and syndicated credits, and loan commitments; financial guarantee contracts, such as issued and confirmed letters of credit, and stand-by letters of credit; and guarantees covering commercial risk and other assets, as well as co-financing arrangements, underwriting of syndicated credit facilities, structured trade financing in the form of factoring and vendor financing, and financial leasing.

Further Reading

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Basilea Pharmaceutica AG (OTCMKTS:BPMUF  Get Rating)s stock price hit a new 52-week high on Monday . The company traded as high as $52.00 and last traded at $52.00, with a volume of 0 shares. The stock had previously closed at $52.00.

Basilea Pharmaceutica Stock Performance

The stocks fifty day simple moving average is $52.00 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $49.54.

Basilea Pharmaceutica Company Profile

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Basilea Pharmaceutica AG engages in the development and commercialization of pharmaceutical products. Its products include Cresemba, Zevtera, Derazantinib, BAL101553, and BAL3833. The company was founded on October 17, 2000 and is headquartered in Allschwil, Switzerland.

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Blackstone Secured Lending Fund (NYSE:BXSL  Get Rating) was the target of a significant growth in short interest during the month of March. As of March 31st, there was short interest totalling 882,500 shares, a growth of 141.6% from the March 15th total of 365,200 shares. Currently, 0.6% of the shares of the stock are sold short. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 999,900 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.9 days.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

BXSL has been the subject of several recent research reports. Citigroup boosted their price objective on Blackstone Secured Lending Fund from $26.00 to $28.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Tuesday, February 28th. Raymond James boosted their price objective on Blackstone Secured Lending Fund from $25.50 to $27.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Tuesday, February 28th. Finally, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods boosted their price objective on Blackstone Secured Lending Fund from $25.50 to $27.00 and gave the stock a market perform rating in a report on Tuesday, February 28th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating and six have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $27.07.

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Blackstone Secured Lending Fund Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE BXSL remained flat at $25.50 during mid-day trading on Monday. The company had a trading volume of 553,179 shares, compared to its average volume of 967,947. The company has a 50 day moving average price of $25.06 and a 200-day moving average price of $24.01. The firm has a market cap of $4.09 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 10.45 and a beta of 0.45. Blackstone Secured Lending Fund has a 52 week low of $22.00 and a 52 week high of $28.39.

Blackstone Secured Lending Fund Increases Dividend

Blackstone Secured Lending Fund ( NYSE:BXSL Get Rating ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Monday, February 27th. The company reported $0.90 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.88 by $0.02. The business had revenue of $251.00 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $251.75 million. Blackstone Secured Lending Fund had a return on equity of 11.32% and a net margin of 47.55%. During the same period last year, the firm posted $0.67 earnings per share. Equities research analysts predict that Blackstone Secured Lending Fund will post 3.72 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, April 27th. Stockholders of record on Friday, March 31st will be paid a dividend of $0.70 per share. This represents a $2.80 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 10.98%. This is a positive change from Blackstone Secured Lending Funds previous quarterly dividend of $0.60. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, March 30th. Blackstone Secured Lending Funds dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 114.75%.

Institutional Trading of Blackstone Secured Lending Fund

Hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the company. All Season Financial Advisors Inc. raised its position in shares of Blackstone Secured Lending Fund by 7.5% during the first quarter. All Season Financial Advisors Inc. now owns 15,418 shares of the companys stock worth $384,000 after acquiring an additional 1,075 shares during the last quarter. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. raised its position in shares of Blackstone Secured Lending Fund by 70.2% during the first quarter. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. now owns 264,661 shares of the companys stock worth $5,915,000 after acquiring an additional 109,138 shares during the last quarter. LGT Capital Partners LTD. bought a new position in shares of Blackstone Secured Lending Fund during the first quarter worth about $13,961,000. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. raised its position in shares of Blackstone Secured Lending Fund by 43.1% during the first quarter. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. now owns 199,103 shares of the companys stock worth $4,964,000 after acquiring an additional 59,927 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Raymond James & Associates raised its position in shares of Blackstone Secured Lending Fund by 160.4% during the first quarter. Raymond James & Associates now owns 214,679 shares of the companys stock worth $5,352,000 after acquiring an additional 132,235 shares during the last quarter. 31.16% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

About Blackstone Secured Lending Fund

(Get Rating)

Blackstone Secured Lending Fund is business development company and a Delaware statutory trust formed on March 26, 2018, and structured as an externally managed, non-diversified closed-end investment Fund. On October 26, 2018, the fund elected to be regulated as a business development company (BDC) under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act).

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Intrepid Financial Planning Group LLC trimmed its holdings in shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb (NYSE:BMY  Get Rating) by 11.9% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 2,825 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after selling 380 shares during the quarter. Intrepid Financial Planning Group LLCs holdings in Bristol-Myers Squibb were worth $203,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other large investors have also made changes to their positions in BMY. My Personal CFO LLC purchased a new stake in Bristol-Myers Squibb in the 4th quarter valued at $35,000. Clear Investment Research LLC acquired a new stake in Bristol-Myers Squibb in the 3rd quarter valued at about $36,000. VitalStone Financial LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb during the 4th quarter worth about $36,000. Miller Wealth Advisors LLC raised its position in shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb by 101.3% during the 4th quarter. Miller Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 481 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $36,000 after acquiring an additional 242 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Western Pacific Wealth Management LP increased its position in Bristol-Myers Squibb by 878.6% during the third quarter. Western Pacific Wealth Management LP now owns 548 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $38,000 after buying an additional 492 shares during the period. 75.51% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several brokerages have weighed in on BMY. Morgan Stanley lifted their target price on Bristol-Myers Squibb from $60.00 to $62.00 and gave the company an underweight rating in a research note on Friday, February 3rd. Wells Fargo & Company boosted their target price on shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb from $70.00 to $78.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Tuesday, January 3rd. Cantor Fitzgerald started coverage on Bristol-Myers Squibb in a research report on Tuesday, January 17th. They issued an overweight rating and a $95.00 price objective for the company. Jefferies Financial Group started coverage on Bristol-Myers Squibb in a research report on Monday, March 6th. They issued a hold rating and a $62.00 price objective for the company. Finally, Atlantic Securities boosted their price target on Bristol-Myers Squibb from $88.00 to $90.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Friday, February 3rd. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have assigned a hold rating, seven have issued a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $79.69.

Bristol-Myers Squibb Stock Down 0.6 %

NYSE BMY traded down $0.40 on Tuesday, hitting $70.20. 1,917,613 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 7,877,573. The stock has a 50-day moving average of $69.55 and a 200 day moving average of $72.78. Bristol-Myers Squibb has a twelve month low of $65.28 and a twelve month high of $81.43. The company has a market capitalization of $147.65 billion, a P/E ratio of 23.93, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.55 and a beta of 0.45. The company has a current ratio of 1.25, a quick ratio of 1.14 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.13.

Bristol-Myers Squibb (NYSE:BMY  Get Rating) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, February 2nd. The biopharmaceutical company reported $1.82 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.71 by $0.11. Bristol-Myers Squibb had a return on equity of 51.60% and a net margin of 13.71%. The company had revenue of $11.41 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $11.20 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned $1.83 earnings per share. The businesss revenue was down 4.8% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, analysts expect that Bristol-Myers Squibb will post 7.98 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Bristol-Myers Squibb Dividend Announcement

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, May 1st. Stockholders of record on Monday, April 10th will be given a dividend of $0.57 per share. This represents a $2.28 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.25%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, April 6th. Bristol-Myers Squibbs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 77.29%.

Insider Activity

In other news, EVP Ann Powell sold 11,183 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Monday, February 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of $74.69, for a total transaction of $835,258.27. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 23,043 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,721,081.67. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. In other news, CEO Giovanni Caforio sold 240,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Monday, February 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of $74.65, for a total transaction of $17,916,000.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now directly owns 236,104 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $17,625,163.60. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, EVP Ann Powell sold 11,183 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Monday, February 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of $74.69, for a total value of $835,258.27. Following the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 23,043 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,721,081.67. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 0.08% of the stock is owned by insiders.

About Bristol-Myers Squibb

(Get Rating)

Bristol Myers Squibb Co engages in the discovery, development, licensing, manufacture, marketing, distribution, and sale of biopharmaceutical products. It offers chemically-synthesized drugs or small molecules and products produced from biological processes called biologics. The company was founded in August 1933 and is headquartered in New York, NY.

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Birchcliff Energy (TSE:BIR  Get Rating) had its price objective cut by CIBC from C$9.00 to C$8.00 in a report published on Friday morning, BayStreet.CA reports.

A number of other brokerages have also recently issued reports on BIR. Raymond James cut shares of Birchcliff Energy from an outperform rating to a market perform rating and cut their price objective for the company from C$12.00 to C$11.00 in a research note on Tuesday, April 11th. Scotiabank lowered shares of Birchcliff Energy from an outperform rating to a sector perform rating and lowered their price target for the company from C$16.50 to C$13.00 in a report on Tuesday, January 17th. BMO Capital Markets lowered their price target on shares of Birchcliff Energy from C$10.00 to C$9.00 in a report on Monday, March 27th. National Bankshares decreased their price objective on shares of Birchcliff Energy from C$12.00 to C$11.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a report on Thursday, March 16th. Finally, TD Securities lowered shares of Birchcliff Energy from a buy rating to a hold rating and decreased their price objective for the stock from C$9.00 to C$8.00 in a report on Wednesday, March 29th. Six investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and four have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, Birchcliff Energy has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of C$11.06.

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Birchcliff Energy Price Performance

Shares of Birchcliff Energy stock opened at C$8.20 on Friday. Birchcliff Energy has a 52-week low of C$7.49 and a 52-week high of C$12.48. The stock has a market capitalization of C$2.19 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 3.45, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.35 and a beta of 2.25. The company has a fifty day moving average of C$8.21 and a 200-day moving average of C$9.25. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 6.03, a quick ratio of 0.97 and a current ratio of 1.05.

Birchcliff Energy Increases Dividend

Insider Activity at Birchcliff Energy

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 31st. Investors of record on Friday, March 31st were given a dividend of $0.20 per share. This represents a $0.80 annualized dividend and a yield of 9.76%. This is an increase from Birchcliff Energys previous quarterly dividend of $0.02. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, March 14th. Birchcliff Energys dividend payout ratio is 33.61%.

In related news, Senior Officer Theo Van Der Werken sold 20,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, April 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of C$8.20, for a total transaction of C$164,000.00. 1.51% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

About Birchcliff Energy

(Get Rating)

Birchcliff Energy Ltd., an intermediate oil and natural gas company, acquires, explores for, develops, and produces natural gas, light oil, condensate, and natural gas liquids in Western Canada. The company holds interests in the Montney/Doig resource play located approximately 95 km northwest of Grande Prairie, Alberta.

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Coca-Cola HBC AG (OTCMKTS:CCHGY  Get Rating) shares reached a new 52-week high during trading on Tuesday after Morgan Stanley raised their price target on the stock from GBX 2,250 to GBX 2,350. The stock traded as high as $29.05 and last traded at $29.05, with a volume of 3644 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at $28.76.

Several other analysts also recently weighed in on the stock. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft decreased their price target on shares of Coca-Cola HBC from GBX 2,580 ($31.93) to GBX 2,545 ($31.49) in a research note on Tuesday, April 4th. Citigroup decreased their price target on shares of Coca-Cola HBC from GBX 2,200 ($27.22) to GBX 2,125 ($26.30) in a research note on Tuesday, January 10th. Credit Suisse Group reduced their price objective on shares of Coca-Cola HBC from GBX 2,600 ($32.17) to GBX 2,500 ($30.94) in a research note on Tuesday, January 10th. Finally, Barclays boosted their price objective on shares of Coca-Cola HBC from GBX 2,500 ($30.94) to GBX 2,700 ($33.41) in a research note on Thursday, February 16th.

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Coca-Cola HBC Price Performance

The firms 50 day moving average price is $26.30 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $24.30. The company has a quick ratio of 0.98, a current ratio of 1.24 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.91.

About Coca-Cola HBC

Coca-Cola HBC AG engages in the production, sale and distribution of non-alcoholic and ready-to-drink beverages. It operates through the following segments: Established Markets, Developing Markets, and Emerging Markets. The Established Markets segment consists of Austria, Cyprus, Greece, Italy, Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, and Switzerland.

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Copper Mountain Mining Co. (OTCMKTS:CPPMF  Get Rating) was the target of a large decrease in short interest in March. As of March 31st, there was short interest totalling 1,804,900 shares, a decrease of 29.6% from the March 15th total of 2,565,600 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 207,800 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 8.7 days.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several analysts have issued reports on the stock. National Bank Financial cut shares of Copper Mountain Mining to an outperform rating in a research note on Friday. BMO Capital Markets lowered shares of Copper Mountain Mining from an outperform rating to a market perform rating in a report on Thursday. Stifel Nicolaus increased their price target on shares of Copper Mountain Mining from C$2.20 to C$2.60 in a report on Friday. TD Securities lowered shares of Copper Mountain Mining to a buy rating in a report on Monday. Finally, Scotiabank cut their price target on shares of Copper Mountain Mining from C$3.00 to C$2.75 in a report on Tuesday, February 7th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have given a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, Copper Mountain Mining has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $2.85.

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Copper Mountain Mining Trading Up 1.0 %

Shares of OTCMKTS:CPPMF traded up $0.02 on Monday, hitting $1.96. The company had a trading volume of 122,501 shares, compared to its average volume of 157,950. The firms 50-day simple moving average is $1.54 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $1.43. Copper Mountain Mining has a 1 year low of $0.92 and a 1 year high of $3.10. The company has a quick ratio of 1.34, a current ratio of 1.72 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.71. The firm has a market capitalization of $419.13 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.82 and a beta of 1.99.

Copper Mountain Mining Company Profile

Copper Mountain Mining ( OTCMKTS:CPPMF Get Rating ) last posted its earnings results on Monday, March 27th. The company reported ($0.07) EPS for the quarter. Copper Mountain Mining had a negative return on equity of 10.38% and a net margin of 9.14%. The company had revenue of $66.50 million during the quarter.

(Get Rating)

Copper Mountain Mining Corp. engages in the exploration, development and operation of mineral deposits. It holds interest in Copper Mountain Mine, Eva Copper, New Ingerbelle, and Cameron Copper Projects. The company was founded on April 20, 2006 and is headquartered in Vancouver, Canada.

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(Bloomberg) -- Chinas production of key electronics declined so far this year despite a bullish rebound in the overall economy, showing the unevenness of the countrys recovery.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Output of semiconductors fell nearly 15% in the first quarter from the same period last year, according to data released by the National Bureau of Statistics on Tuesday. Smartphones production shrank 13.8% in the same period, as local brands like Oppo, Vivo and Xiaomi Corp. struggled to shake off a sales malaise thats affected Android handsets for over a year.

In addition to that domestic sales slowdown, trade tensions between Washington and Beijing are increasingly pushing electronics brands such as Apple Inc. to seek production locations outside outside of China. Chinas tech manufacturing sector is facing rising competitive pressure from factories in India and Vietnam, which are among other Asian locations used by electronics assemblers to diversify the geography of their operations.

Read more: Apple Looks Beyond China in Bid to Remake Cooks Supply Chains

The Biden administrations curbs on trade with Chinas semiconductor industry has also put a cap on Beijings chip ambitions, as local manufacturers are no longer able to access some technologies to fabricate cutting-edge silicon.

The output of microcomputers such as PCs slumped the most among the key electronics product classes disclosed in the report, and the downturn in electronics output dragged on the growth of Chinas total industrial output, which climbed 3.9% in March. Gross domestic product expanded 4.5% in the January-to-March period from a year earlier.

Story continues

Stock of Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corp., the biggest chipmaker in the country, dropped as much has 5.5% in Hong Kong following the data release. Smartphone maker Xiaomi fell as much as 2%.

--With assistance from James Mayger.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Forsta AP Fonden trimmed its position in shares of The Toronto-Dominion Bank (NYSE:TD  Get Rating) (TSE:TD) by 7.2% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 462,000 shares of the banks stock after selling 35,900 shares during the period. Forsta AP Fondens holdings in Toronto-Dominion Bank were worth $29,893,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of TD. Fairfield Bush & CO. purchased a new stake in Toronto-Dominion Bank in the first quarter worth $26,000. Financial Management Professionals Inc. lifted its holdings in Toronto-Dominion Bank by 75.1% in the third quarter. Financial Management Professionals Inc. now owns 408 shares of the banks stock worth $25,000 after buying an additional 175 shares during the period. McElhenny Sheffield Capital Management LLC bought a new stake in Toronto-Dominion Bank during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $40,000. Laurus Investment Counsel Inc. purchased a new position in shares of Toronto-Dominion Bank during the 4th quarter worth approximately $56,615,000. Finally, Massmutual Trust Co. FSB ADV raised its position in shares of Toronto-Dominion Bank by 130.6% in the 3rd quarter. Massmutual Trust Co. FSB ADV now owns 747 shares of the banks stock worth $46,000 after acquiring an additional 423 shares in the last quarter. 49.22% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several research analysts recently issued reports on the stock. StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of Toronto-Dominion Bank in a research note on Thursday, March 16th. They issued a sell rating for the company. Scotiabank raised Toronto-Dominion Bank from a sector perform rating to a sector outperform rating in a research report on Friday, March 3rd. Desjardins raised their price objective on Toronto-Dominion Bank from C$105.00 to C$106.00 in a research report on Tuesday, February 7th. Finally, CIBC raised Toronto-Dominion Bank from a neutral rating to a sector outperform rating in a report on Monday. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, one has issued a hold rating and six have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $100.57.

Toronto-Dominion Bank Stock Performance

Shares of TD stock traded up $0.83 during trading hours on Tuesday, reaching $62.06. The company had a trading volume of 967,629 shares, compared to its average volume of 2,382,826. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.11, a quick ratio of 0.97 and a current ratio of 0.97. The business has a fifty day moving average price of $62.90 and a 200-day moving average price of $64.31. The Toronto-Dominion Bank has a one year low of $55.43 and a one year high of $77.45. The firm has a market cap of $113.57 billion, a PE ratio of 9.67, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.15 and a beta of 0.88.

Toronto-Dominion Bank (NYSE:TD  Get Rating) (TSE:TD) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, March 2nd. The bank reported $1.64 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.61 by $0.03. Toronto-Dominion Bank had a net margin of 18.23% and a return on equity of 16.02%. The business had revenue of $9.01 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $8.97 billion. Sell-side analysts predict that The Toronto-Dominion Bank will post 6.57 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Toronto-Dominion Bank Increases Dividend

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Sunday, April 30th. Investors of record on Thursday, April 6th will be issued a $0.721 dividend. This is an increase from Toronto-Dominion Banks previous quarterly dividend of $0.71. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, April 5th. This represents a $2.88 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 4.65%. Toronto-Dominion Banks dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 44.87%.

Toronto-Dominion Bank Company Profile

(Get Rating)

The Toronto-Dominion Bank engages in the provision of financial products and services. It operates through the following segments: Canadian Retail, U.S. Retail, and Wholesale Banking. The Canadian Retail segment offers various financial products and services, as well as telephone, Internet, and mobile banking services.

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StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of InnSuites Hospitality Trust (NYSEAMERICAN:IHT  Get Rating) in a research note issued to investors on Friday morning. The brokerage issued a hold rating on the stock.

InnSuites Hospitality Trust Stock Up 2.6 %

InnSuites Hospitality Trust stock opened at $1.41 on Friday. The firm has a market cap of $12.81 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.56 and a beta of 0.16. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $1.56 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $1.69. InnSuites Hospitality Trust has a 12 month low of $1.26 and a 12 month high of $3.77. The company has a current ratio of 2.63, a quick ratio of 2.63 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.31.

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Institutional Trading of InnSuites Hospitality Trust

An institutional investor recently bought a new position in InnSuites Hospitality Trust stock. Brighton Jones LLC acquired a new position in InnSuites Hospitality Trust (NYSEAMERICAN:IHT  Get Rating) in the 3rd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund acquired 43,352 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $83,000. Brighton Jones LLC owned 0.48% of InnSuites Hospitality Trust at the end of the most recent reporting period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 3.15% of the companys stock.

InnSuites Hospitality Trust Company Profile

InnSuites Hospitality Trust engages in the ownership and operation of hotel properties. It also offers management services, which focus on trademark and licensing. The company was founded by James F. Wirth on June 21, 1971 and is headquartered in Phoenix, AZ.

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Internet Initiative Japan Inc. (OTCMKTS:IIJIY  Get Rating) reached a new 52-week high during mid-day trading on Monday . The company traded as high as $41.60 and last traded at $41.60, with a volume of 0 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at $41.60.

Internet Initiative Japan Price Performance

The stocks 50 day moving average price is $40.21 and its 200-day moving average price is $36.09. The stock has a market capitalization of $3.89 billion, a P/E ratio of 26.84 and a beta of 0.63.

About Internet Initiative Japan

(Get Rating)

Internet Initiative Japan Inc engages in the provision of Internet connectivity and wide area network services; network systems construction, operation and maintenance; and telecommunications equipment. It operates through the Network Service and Systems Integration (SI), and Automated Teller Machine (ATM) Operation segments.

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Intrepid Financial Planning Group LLC cut its position in shares of VMware, Inc. (NYSE:VMW  Get Rating) by 2.7% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 6,262 shares of the virtualization software providers stock after selling 176 shares during the quarter. Intrepid Financial Planning Group LLCs holdings in VMware were worth $769,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of the stock. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership raised its stake in VMware by 181.5% during the first quarter. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership now owns 2,210,001 shares of the virtualization software providers stock valued at $251,653,000 after buying an additional 1,424,875 shares in the last quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. raised its stake in VMware by 8.3% during the third quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 14,338,363 shares of the virtualization software providers stock valued at $1,526,461,000 after buying an additional 1,102,577 shares in the last quarter. Marshall Wace LLP raised its stake in VMware by 28.5% during the third quarter. Marshall Wace LLP now owns 2,716,536 shares of the virtualization software providers stock valued at $289,205,000 after buying an additional 602,026 shares in the last quarter. Caisse DE Depot ET Placement DU Quebec raised its stake in VMware by 170.3% during the first quarter. Caisse DE Depot ET Placement DU Quebec now owns 920,663 shares of the virtualization software providers stock valued at $104,836,000 after buying an additional 580,000 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Alliancebernstein L.P. raised its stake in VMware by 67.0% during the third quarter. Alliancebernstein L.P. now owns 1,412,146 shares of the virtualization software providers stock valued at $150,337,000 after buying an additional 566,745 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 45.85% of the companys stock.

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Insider Activity at VMware

In related news, CFO Zane Rowe sold 35,715 shares of VMware stock in a transaction on Monday, April 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $124.53, for a total transaction of $4,447,588.95. Following the completion of the sale, the chief financial officer now owns 174,162 shares of the companys stock, valued at $21,688,393.86. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Insiders own 40.30% of the companys stock.

VMware Stock Up 0.0 %

Shares of VMW stock traded up $0.04 on Tuesday, reaching $126.10. 162,609 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 1,174,922. VMware, Inc. has a 12-month low of $91.53 and a 12-month high of $132.15. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 6.15, a quick ratio of 0.83 and a current ratio of 0.83. The company has a market capitalization of $54.03 billion, a P/E ratio of 40.93, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.86 and a beta of 0.72. The businesss 50 day moving average price is $119.00 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $118.10.

VMware (NYSE:VMW  Get Rating) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, March 2nd. The virtualization software provider reported $1.49 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.36 by $0.13. The business had revenue of $3.71 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $3.64 billion. VMware had a return on equity of 327.30% and a net margin of 9.84%. On average, equities analysts forecast that VMware, Inc. will post 4.89 earnings per share for the current year.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of analysts have recently weighed in on VMW shares. BMO Capital Markets dropped their price target on VMware from $142.50 to $139.00 and set a market perform rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, March 6th. UBS Group raised their target price on VMware from $131.00 to $147.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Tuesday, February 7th. Finally, StockNews.com began coverage on VMware in a research report on Thursday, March 16th. They issued a strong-buy rating on the stock. Seven investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $135.88.

VMware Profile

(Get Rating)

VMware, Inc engages in the provision of cloud infrastructure and business mobility. Its products include Software-Defined Data Center, Hybrid Cloud Computing, and End-User Computing. It supports modernizing data centers, integrating public clouds, empowering digital workspaces and transforming security.

Further Reading

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Klingenstein Fields & Co. LP lowered its stake in shares of Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM  Get Rating) by 2.0% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 11,899 shares of the companys stock after selling 240 shares during the period. Klingenstein Fields & Co. LPs holdings in Philip Morris International were worth $1,204,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also bought and sold shares of PM. Mission Wealth Management LP increased its holdings in Philip Morris International by 8.2% in the 4th quarter. Mission Wealth Management LP now owns 8,373 shares of the companys stock worth $847,000 after acquiring an additional 635 shares in the last quarter. Financial Advisors Network Inc. increased its holdings in Philip Morris International by 38.6% in the 4th quarter. Financial Advisors Network Inc. now owns 4,057 shares of the companys stock worth $411,000 after acquiring an additional 1,129 shares in the last quarter. X Square Capital LLC grew its holdings in Philip Morris International by 0.6% during the 4th quarter. X Square Capital LLC now owns 33,087 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,349,000 after buying an additional 183 shares in the last quarter. Factory Mutual Insurance Co. grew its holdings in Philip Morris International by 6.6% during the 4th quarter. Factory Mutual Insurance Co. now owns 514,706 shares of the companys stock valued at $52,093,000 after buying an additional 31,700 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Profund Advisors LLC grew its holdings in Philip Morris International by 10.1% during the 4th quarter. Profund Advisors LLC now owns 17,092 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,730,000 after buying an additional 1,568 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 75.85% of the companys stock.

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Philip Morris International Stock Performance

Shares of PM traded up $0.50 during trading hours on Tuesday, hitting $100.44. 766,435 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 4,439,221. Philip Morris International Inc. has a 12-month low of $82.85 and a 12-month high of $109.81. The company has a market cap of $155.90 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.28, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.33 and a beta of 0.68. The stocks 50-day moving average price is $98.29 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $97.08.

Philip Morris International Dividend Announcement

Philip Morris International ( NYSE:PM Get Rating ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, February 9th. The company reported $1.39 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.29 by $0.10. The firm had revenue of $8.15 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $7.54 billion. Philip Morris International had a negative return on equity of 127.24% and a net margin of 11.22%. The firms revenue for the quarter was up .6% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the business earned $1.35 earnings per share. On average, research analysts expect that Philip Morris International Inc. will post 6.31 earnings per share for the current year.

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, April 11th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, March 23rd were issued a dividend of $1.27 per share. This represents a $5.08 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 5.06%. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, March 22nd. Philip Morris Internationals dividend payout ratio is presently 87.44%.

Insider Transactions at Philip Morris International

In related news, insider Werner Barth sold 8,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Thursday, March 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $98.35, for a total transaction of $786,800.00. Following the transaction, the insider now owns 87,321 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $8,588,020.35. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. In other Philip Morris International news, Chairman Andre Calantzopoulos sold 80,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, February 17th. The stock was sold at an average price of $100.35, for a total value of $8,028,000.00. Following the sale, the chairman now owns 1,007,048 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $101,057,266.80. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Also, insider Werner Barth sold 8,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Thursday, March 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $98.35, for a total value of $786,800.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now directly owns 87,321 shares in the company, valued at approximately $8,588,020.35. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last ninety days, insiders sold 117,064 shares of company stock worth $11,738,763. 0.15% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of brokerages recently issued reports on PM. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upgraded Philip Morris International from a neutral rating to an overweight rating and raised their price target for the stock from $109.00 to $116.00 in a research report on Thursday, March 30th. UBS Group upgraded Philip Morris International from a neutral rating to a buy rating and lifted their target price for the stock from $106.00 to $116.00 in a research report on Wednesday, March 1st. Stifel Nicolaus initiated coverage on Philip Morris International in a research report on Thursday, April 13th. They set a buy rating and a $114.00 target price for the company. StockNews.com initiated coverage on Philip Morris International in a report on Thursday, March 16th. They issued a hold rating for the company. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group upgraded Philip Morris International from a hold rating to a buy rating and lifted their price objective for the company from $86.00 to $118.00 in a report on Thursday, January 19th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have given a hold rating and seven have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $111.18.

About Philip Morris International

(Get Rating)

Philip Morris International, Inc is a holding company engaged in the manufacturing and sale of cigarettes, tobacco, and nicotine-containing products. Its products include cigarettes and reduced-risk products, including heat-not-burn, vapor, and oral nicotine products. The firm operates through the following geographical segments: European Union, Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa, South and Southeast Asia, East Asia and Australia, and Americas.

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Legacy Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in Aflac Incorporated (NYSE:AFL  Get Rating) in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund acquired 5,749 shares of the financial services providers stock, valued at approximately $414,000.

Several other hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the company. Zurcher Kantonalbank Zurich Cantonalbank lifted its holdings in shares of Aflac by 8.9% in the 4th quarter. Zurcher Kantonalbank Zurich Cantonalbank now owns 1,581,055 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $113,741,000 after buying an additional 129,366 shares during the period. NorthRock Partners LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Aflac during the 4th quarter worth $248,000. Bay Colony Advisory Group Inc d b a Bay Colony Advisors lifted its stake in shares of Aflac by 4.2% during the 4th quarter. Bay Colony Advisory Group Inc d b a Bay Colony Advisors now owns 7,076 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $509,000 after purchasing an additional 284 shares during the last quarter. CWM LLC lifted its stake in shares of Aflac by 3.3% during the 4th quarter. CWM LLC now owns 72,943 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $5,248,000 after purchasing an additional 2,300 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Edmp Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Aflac by 6,918.5% during the 4th quarter. Edmp Inc. now owns 3,676,833 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $51,110,000 after purchasing an additional 3,624,445 shares during the last quarter. 66.22% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

AFL has been the subject of a number of research analyst reports. Morgan Stanley decreased their price target on Aflac from $77.00 to $72.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, April 12th. Raymond James raised their price target on shares of Aflac from $74.00 to $77.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Monday, January 30th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised their price target on shares of Aflac from $62.00 to $66.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Friday, January 6th. Truist Financial raised their price target on shares of Aflac from $65.00 to $70.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a report on Monday, February 6th. Finally, StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of Aflac in a report on Thursday, March 16th. They issued a hold rating for the company. Six equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $71.13.

Aflac Trading Up 0.5 %

Shares of AFL stock opened at $66.57 on Tuesday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.06, a current ratio of 0.06 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.33. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $66.17 and a 200-day simple moving average of $67.49. Aflac Incorporated has a fifty-two week low of $52.07 and a fifty-two week high of $74.01. The stock has a market cap of $40.75 billion, a P/E ratio of 10.13, a P/E/G ratio of 2.37 and a beta of 0.93.

Aflac (NYSE:AFL  Get Rating) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, February 2nd. The financial services provider reported $1.29 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.21 by $0.08. The business had revenue of $4.01 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.49 billion. Aflac had a return on equity of 13.69% and a net margin of 21.54%. The companys revenue was down 26.2% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $1.28 EPS. On average, analysts forecast that Aflac Incorporated will post 5.59 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Insider Activity

In other Aflac news, Director Masatoshi Koide sold 19,291 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, February 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $70.36, for a total value of $1,357,314.76. Following the transaction, the director now owns 87,598 shares of the companys stock, valued at $6,163,395.28. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. In other Aflac news, Director Joseph L. Moskowitz sold 500 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Monday, April 3rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $64.45, for a total value of $32,225.00. Following the sale, the director now directly owns 19,269 shares in the company, valued at $1,241,887.05. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. Also, Director Masatoshi Koide sold 19,291 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Tuesday, February 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $70.36, for a total transaction of $1,357,314.76. Following the sale, the director now directly owns 87,598 shares in the company, valued at $6,163,395.28. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Company insiders own 0.90% of the companys stock.

Aflac Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Aflac, Inc is a holding company. engages in the provision of financial protection services. It operates through the followings segments: Aflac Japan and Aflac United States (U.S.). The Aflac Japan segment offers life insurance, death benefits, and cash surrender values. The Aflac U.S. segment sells voluntary supplemental insurance products for people who already have major medical or primary insurance coverage.

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Magna International (NYSE:MGA  Get Rating) (TSE:MG) was downgraded by equities researchers at Royal Bank of Canada from an outperform rating to a sector perform rating in a note issued to investors on Tuesday, The Fly reports.

MGA has been the topic of a number of other reports. Barclays reduced their price objective on shares of Magna International from $60.00 to $58.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research note on Monday. StockNews.com raised shares of Magna International from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, April 12th. Citigroup reduced their price target on shares of Magna International from $66.00 to $53.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, February 13th. Bank of America cut shares of Magna International from a buy rating to a neutral rating and reduced their price target for the stock from $102.00 to $72.00 in a research report on Monday, January 9th. Finally, Morgan Stanley reduced their target price on shares of Magna International from $72.00 to $65.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, February 16th. Seven analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and five have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $62.08.

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Magna International Price Performance

Shares of NYSE MGA traded up $0.36 during mid-day trading on Tuesday, hitting $54.77. 1,057,959 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 1,184,702. The company has a market cap of $15.67 billion, a P/E ratio of 27.25, a PEG ratio of 0.60 and a beta of 1.59. The stocks fifty day simple moving average is $54.25 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $56.70. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.25, a quick ratio of 0.76 and a current ratio of 1.14. Magna International has a twelve month low of $45.58 and a twelve month high of $68.92.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Magna International

Magna International ( NYSE:MGA Get Rating ) (TSE:MG) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Friday, February 10th. The company reported $0.91 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $1.24 by ($0.33). The company had revenue of $9.57 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $9.51 billion. Magna International had a net margin of 1.56% and a return on equity of 10.49%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 5.0% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the business earned $1.30 EPS. As a group, analysts forecast that Magna International will post 4.53 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the company. Pzena Investment Management LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Magna International in the 4th quarter valued at $230,157,000. Turtle Creek Asset Management Inc. raised its holdings in Magna International by 8.2% in the 3rd quarter. Turtle Creek Asset Management Inc. now owns 2,367,404 shares of the companys stock worth $112,262,000 after purchasing an additional 179,300 shares in the last quarter. Toronto Dominion Bank raised its holdings in Magna International by 10.3% in the 3rd quarter. Toronto Dominion Bank now owns 1,939,588 shares of the companys stock worth $91,990,000 after purchasing an additional 181,344 shares in the last quarter. Russell Investments Group Ltd. increased its stake in shares of Magna International by 10.8% in the 4th quarter. Russell Investments Group Ltd. now owns 615,202 shares of the companys stock worth $34,612,000 after acquiring an additional 60,136 shares in the last quarter. Finally, US Bancorp DE increased its stake in shares of Magna International by 9.6% in the 3rd quarter. US Bancorp DE now owns 493,495 shares of the companys stock worth $23,402,000 after acquiring an additional 43,025 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 59.63% of the companys stock.

About Magna International

(Get Rating)

Magna International, Inc is a mobility technology company, which engages in the design, engineering, and manufacturing of automotive supplies. It operates through the following segments: Body Exteriors and Structures, Power and Vision, Seating Systems, and Complete Vehicles. The Body Exteriors and Structures segment includes body and chassis systems, exterior systems, and roof systems operations.

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Matador Resources (NYSE:MTDR  Get Rating) had its target price upped by JPMorgan Chase & Co. from $73.00 to $74.00 in a research note published on Friday morning, The Fly reports. The firm currently has an overweight rating on the energy companys stock.

Other research analysts have also issued reports about the stock. Royal Bank of Canada reiterated an outperform rating and issued a $78.00 target price on shares of Matador Resources in a research note on Thursday, February 23rd. StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of Matador Resources in a report on Thursday, March 16th. They issued a hold rating on the stock. Cowen upped their price objective on shares of Matador Resources from $67.00 to $78.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Wednesday, January 25th. Raymond James decreased their price target on shares of Matador Resources from $78.00 to $57.00 in a research note on Monday, March 27th. Finally, KeyCorp cut their price objective on shares of Matador Resources from $73.00 to $67.00 in a research report on Monday, February 27th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eight have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $70.00.

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Matador Resources Stock Performance

Shares of MTDR opened at $51.76 on Friday. The companys fifty day moving average is $53.16 and its 200-day moving average is $58.99. Matador Resources has a 12 month low of $41.17 and a 12 month high of $73.78. The firm has a market cap of $6.16 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 5.11 and a beta of 3.53. The company has a quick ratio of 1.83, a current ratio of 1.86 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.35.

Matador Resources Increases Dividend

Matador Resources ( NYSE:MTDR Get Rating ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, February 22nd. The energy company reported $2.08 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.95 by $0.13. Matador Resources had a net margin of 39.71% and a return on equity of 44.14%. The company had revenue of $707.48 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $651.11 million. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business posted $1.26 EPS. Equities analysts expect that Matador Resources will post 6.88 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, March 9th. Investors of record on Monday, February 27th were issued a $0.15 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, February 24th. This represents a $0.60 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.16%. This is a positive change from Matador Resourcess previous quarterly dividend of $0.10. Matador Resourcess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 5.92%.

Insider Buying and Selling at Matador Resources

In other Matador Resources news, Director Timothy E. Parker acquired 4,500 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, March 16th. The stock was bought at an average cost of $43.52 per share, with a total value of $195,840.00. Following the acquisition, the director now owns 71,636 shares in the company, valued at $3,117,598.72. The purchase was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. In related news, Director Timothy E. Parker acquired 4,500 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, March 16th. The shares were acquired at an average price of $43.52 per share, with a total value of $195,840.00. Following the acquisition, the director now owns 71,636 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,117,598.72. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, insider Billy E. Goodwin bought 1,000 shares of Matador Resources stock in a transaction on Thursday, March 16th. The shares were bought at an average cost of $44.52 per share, with a total value of $44,520.00. Following the acquisition, the insider now directly owns 286,624 shares in the company, valued at $12,760,500.48. The disclosure for this purchase can be found here. Insiders have acquired a total of 10,300 shares of company stock valued at $465,035 over the last three months. 5.60% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Matador Resources

A number of institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Copeland Capital Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of Matador Resources during the first quarter worth about $22,866,000. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. grew its stake in Matador Resources by 11.7% in the 1st quarter. Raymond James Financial Services Advisors Inc. now owns 83,631 shares of the energy companys stock worth $3,985,000 after buying an additional 8,747 shares in the last quarter. Raymond James & Associates increased its holdings in shares of Matador Resources by 63.3% in the 1st quarter. Raymond James & Associates now owns 159,438 shares of the energy companys stock worth $7,597,000 after buying an additional 61,816 shares during the last quarter. Chartwell Investment Partners LLC increased its holdings in shares of Matador Resources by 3.5% in the 1st quarter. Chartwell Investment Partners LLC now owns 14,254 shares of the energy companys stock worth $679,000 after buying an additional 478 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC increased its holdings in shares of Matador Resources by 23.1% in the 1st quarter. Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC now owns 264,316 shares of the energy companys stock worth $12,595,000 after buying an additional 49,592 shares during the last quarter. 87.00% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

Matador Resources Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Matador Resources Co is a holding company, which engages in the exploration, development, production, and acquisition of oil and natural gas resources. It operates through the following segments: Exploration and Production, Midstream, and Corporate. The Exploration and Production segment focuses on the exploration, development, production, and acquisition of oil and liquids-rich portion of the Wolfcamp and Bone Spring.

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Triple Flag Precious Metals (NYSE:TFPM  Get Rating) had its price objective hoisted by stock analysts at National Bank Financial from C$22.00 to C$25.00 in a report issued on Tuesday, The Fly reports.

Several other equities analysts have also commented on TFPM. Royal Bank of Canada dropped their price target on shares of Triple Flag Precious Metals from $21.50 to $16.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, March 2nd. BMO Capital Markets increased their price target on shares of Triple Flag Precious Metals from C$22.00 to C$25.00 in a research note on Monday. CIBC upgraded shares of Triple Flag Precious Metals from a neutral rating to a sector outperform rating in a research note on Friday. Raymond James lowered their target price on shares of Triple Flag Precious Metals from C$23.00 to C$22.00 in a research report on Thursday, February 23rd. Finally, TD Securities raised their target price on shares of Triple Flag Precious Metals from C$22.00 to C$26.00 in a research report on Wednesday, April 5th.

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Triple Flag Precious Metals Stock Up 2.5 %

NYSE:TFPM traded up $0.41 during mid-day trading on Tuesday, hitting $16.71. The stock had a trading volume of 139,361 shares, compared to its average volume of 228,376. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $14.11 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $13.18. Triple Flag Precious Metals has a twelve month low of $10.36 and a twelve month high of $17.13.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Triple Flag Precious Metals ( NYSE:TFPM Get Rating ) last issued its earnings results on Tuesday, February 21st. The company reported $0.12 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.10 by $0.02. The firm had revenue of $43.89 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $43.90 million. As a group, equities research analysts predict that Triple Flag Precious Metals will post 0.44 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the company. Toronto Dominion Bank purchased a new stake in Triple Flag Precious Metals in the 4th quarter valued at about $36,000. JPMorgan Chase & Co. purchased a new stake in Triple Flag Precious Metals in the 4th quarter valued at about $48,000. Russell Investments Group Ltd. purchased a new stake in shares of Triple Flag Precious Metals during the 4th quarter worth about $56,000. Royal Bank of Canada purchased a new stake in shares of Triple Flag Precious Metals during the 3rd quarter worth about $69,000. Finally, Renaissance Technologies LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Triple Flag Precious Metals during the 3rd quarter worth about $137,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 87.28% of the companys stock.

Triple Flag Precious Metals Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Triple Flag Precious Metals Corp., a gold-focused streaming and royalty company, engages in acquiring and managing precious metals and other streams and royalties in Australia, Canada, Colombia, Mongolia, Peru, South Africa, and the United States. The company has a portfolio of streams and royalties providing exposure primarily to gold and silver.

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Shares of National Retail Properties, Inc. (NYSE:NNN  Get Rating) have received an average rating of Moderate Buy from the ten ratings firms that are presently covering the company, MarketBeat reports. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation and five have given a buy recommendation to the company. The average 1 year price objective among analysts that have covered the stock in the last year is $49.38.

A number of research analysts have issued reports on the company. Oppenheimer lifted their price objective on National Retail Properties from $49.00 to $54.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Friday, January 27th. StockNews.com started coverage on shares of National Retail Properties in a report on Thursday, March 16th. They set a hold rating for the company. B. Riley reaffirmed a buy rating on shares of National Retail Properties in a research note on Monday, February 13th. Raymond James dropped their price objective on shares of National Retail Properties from $50.00 to $47.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a report on Thursday, April 6th. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group raised National Retail Properties from a hold rating to a buy rating and boosted their target price for the stock from $42.00 to $52.00 in a report on Monday, January 2nd.

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National Retail Properties Price Performance

NYSE:NNN opened at $43.40 on Tuesday. National Retail Properties has a 52 week low of $38.05 and a 52 week high of $48.76. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.95, a quick ratio of 1.60 and a current ratio of 1.60. The company has a market capitalization of $7.90 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 23.09, a PEG ratio of 6.30 and a beta of 0.91. The company has a 50-day moving average of $44.31 and a 200-day moving average of $44.43.

National Retail Properties Announces Dividend

National Retail Properties ( NYSE:NNN Get Rating ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, February 9th. The real estate investment trust reported $0.50 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.79 by ($0.29). The company had revenue of $198.50 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $196.58 million. National Retail Properties had a net margin of 43.29% and a return on equity of 8.40%. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 6.0% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $0.77 earnings per share. As a group, equities research analysts anticipate that National Retail Properties will post 3.19 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, May 15th. Investors of record on Friday, April 28th will be issued a $0.55 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, April 27th. This represents a $2.20 annualized dividend and a yield of 5.07%. National Retail Propertiess dividend payout ratio is currently 117.02%.

Institutional Trading of National Retail Properties

A number of institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of NNN. State of Alaska Department of Revenue boosted its position in shares of National Retail Properties by 2.0% in the 1st quarter. State of Alaska Department of Revenue now owns 201,508 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $8,895,000 after purchasing an additional 4,043 shares during the last quarter. Raymond James & Associates lifted its stake in National Retail Properties by 5.8% in the first quarter. Raymond James & Associates now owns 316,057 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $13,954,000 after buying an additional 17,227 shares during the period. Exchange Traded Concepts LLC boosted its holdings in National Retail Properties by 6.5% during the first quarter. Exchange Traded Concepts LLC now owns 191,006 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $8,433,000 after buying an additional 11,676 shares during the last quarter. Gateway Investment Advisers LLC grew its position in shares of National Retail Properties by 0.7% during the 1st quarter. Gateway Investment Advisers LLC now owns 231,396 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $10,216,000 after buying an additional 1,520 shares during the period. Finally, My Legacy Advisors LLC increased its stake in shares of National Retail Properties by 7.0% in the 1st quarter. My Legacy Advisors LLC now owns 17,131 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $743,000 after acquiring an additional 1,119 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 87.64% of the companys stock.

National Retail Properties Company Profile

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National Retail Properties, Inc is a real estate investment trust, which engages in investing in properties subject to long-term net leases. It acquires, owns, invests in, and develops properties that are leased to retail tenants under long-term net leases and held for investment. The company was founded on August 8, 1984, and is headquartered in Orlando, FL.

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Elon Musk appearing on Fox News - FOX News via AP

Elon Musk has said that he will "hopefully do more good than harm" by creating a new artificial intelligence that seeks to understand the universe.

The billionaire tycoon announced that he intends to create a programme not bound by political correctness that he intends to call TruthGPT, as an alternative to the ChatGPT software that has proved an internet sensation this year.

The Tesla billionaire and Twitter owner told Fox News that Google and OpenAI, the Microsoft-backed company behind ChatGPT, were training their systems to lie and be politically correct.

While acknowledging that AI "has the potential of civilisational destruction," Mr Musk said that his version will be safer because it will be a maximum truth-seeking AI that tries to understand the nature of the universe.

Speaking to Fox News, he said: I think that this might be the best path to safety in the sense that an AI that cares about understanding the universe is unlikely to annihilate humans because we are an interesting part of the universe.

"It's simply starting late. But I will try to create a third option... And that third option, hopefully, does more good than harm."

Mr Musk set up a company called X.AI in Nevada last month and has been hiring researchers away from OpenAI and Google.

He helped found OpenAI as a non-profit almost a decade ago after a dispute with Google founder Larry Page.

Mr Musk said that Mr Page had wanted to create a digital super intelligence, basically a digital God, and called Mr Musk a speciesist for suggesting that AI should serve the interests of humans.

OpenAI has since altered its business model to allow it to make a profit for investors, and struck a multi-billion dollar deal with Microsoft to provide technology for its Bing chatbot. Mr Musk said the company was now closely allied with Microsoft.

Last month he was among a group of experts who called for a six-month moratorium on AI research, warning that the technology was getting out of control.

Story continues

Speaking about his $44bn (35bn) Twitter acquisition last year, Mr Musk told Fox that the deal does not currently appear financially smart, saying I bought it for twice as much as it should have been bought for.

He said government agencies including the US had widespread access to Twitter data including direct messages, a fact that had shocked him on acquiring the company.

He said: The degree to which various government agencies effectively had full access to everything that was going on on Twitter blew my mind. I was not aware of that."

He said Twitter planned to start encrypting messages as soon as this month.
O Brien Greene & Co. Inc purchased a new position in The Charles Schwab Co. (NYSE:SCHW  Get Rating) during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm purchased 24,895 shares of the financial services providers stock, valued at approximately $2,073,000.

Several other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in SCHW. Fisher Asset Management LLC bought a new position in Charles Schwab in the third quarter worth approximately $1,109,194,000. Boston Partners raised its position in shares of Charles Schwab by 37.0% during the 3rd quarter. Boston Partners now owns 10,355,686 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $747,479,000 after purchasing an additional 2,798,159 shares during the period. Vanguard Group Inc. raised its position in shares of Charles Schwab by 2.1% during the 3rd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 124,437,061 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $8,943,291,000 after purchasing an additional 2,589,952 shares during the period. Alliancebernstein L.P. raised its position in shares of Charles Schwab by 7.4% during the 3rd quarter. Alliancebernstein L.P. now owns 20,767,564 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,492,565,000 after purchasing an additional 1,431,879 shares during the period. Finally, Bank of New York Mellon Corp raised its position in shares of Charles Schwab by 10.9% during the 3rd quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 13,495,161 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $969,896,000 after purchasing an additional 1,322,868 shares during the period. 73.49% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Insider Transactions at Charles Schwab

In other news, Director Marianne Catherine Brown bought 5,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, March 28th. The stock was purchased at an average price of $53.47 per share, for a total transaction of $267,350.00. Following the acquisition, the director now owns 9,984 shares of the companys stock, valued at $533,844.48. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. In other news, Director Marianne Catherine Brown bought 5,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, March 28th. The stock was purchased at an average price of $53.47 per share, for a total transaction of $267,350.00. Following the acquisition, the director now owns 9,984 shares of the companys stock, valued at $533,844.48. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, Director Charles A. Ruffel sold 5,176 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Thursday, February 16th. The stock was sold at an average price of $80.88, for a total transaction of $418,634.88. Following the completion of the sale, the director now owns 12,073 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $976,464.24. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last quarter, insiders bought 81,000 shares of company stock worth $4,706,960 and sold 728,106 shares worth $58,067,403. Company insiders own 6.60% of the companys stock.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Charles Schwab Price Performance

Several analysts have recently commented on the stock. Credit Suisse Group upgraded shares of Charles Schwab from a neutral rating to an outperform rating and decreased their price objective for the company from $81.50 to $67.50 in a research report on Wednesday, March 15th. William Blair restated an outperform rating on shares of Charles Schwab in a research report on Tuesday, January 17th. The Goldman Sachs Group decreased their price objective on shares of Charles Schwab from $98.00 to $75.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Tuesday, March 14th. UBS Group cut their target price on shares of Charles Schwab from $70.00 to $65.00 in a research note on Tuesday. Finally, Citigroup cut their target price on shares of Charles Schwab from $75.00 to $65.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, March 29th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, four have assigned a hold rating and eleven have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $69.21.

Shares of NYSE:SCHW traded up $0.31 on Tuesday, reaching $53.08. The companys stock had a trading volume of 9,396,146 shares, compared to its average volume of 22,738,416. The Charles Schwab Co. has a 52-week low of $45.00 and a 52-week high of $86.63. The company has a market cap of $95.09 billion, a P/E ratio of 15.08, a PEG ratio of 1.05 and a beta of 0.88. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $65.59 and a 200 day simple moving average of $73.88. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.77, a quick ratio of 0.38 and a current ratio of 0.38.

Charles Schwab (NYSE:SCHW  Get Rating) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Monday, April 17th. The financial services provider reported $0.93 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.90 by $0.03. Charles Schwab had a net margin of 34.60% and a return on equity of 24.94%. The business had revenue of $5.12 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $5.13 billion. During the same period last year, the company posted $0.77 EPS. The businesss revenue was up 9.5% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, equities research analysts anticipate that The Charles Schwab Co. will post 3.8 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Charles Schwab Increases Dividend

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, February 24th. Stockholders of record on Friday, February 10th were issued a $0.25 dividend. This represents a $1.00 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.88%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, February 9th. This is a positive change from Charles Schwabs previous quarterly dividend of $0.22. Charles Schwabs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 28.57%.

Charles Schwab Company Profile

(Get Rating)

The Charles Schwab Corp. is a savings and loan holding company, which engages in the provision of wealth management, securities brokerage, banking, asset management, custody, and financial advisory services. It operates through the Investor Services and Advisor Services segments. The Investor Services segment includes retail brokerage and banking services to individual investors, and retirement plan services, as well as other corporate brokerage services, to businesses and their employees.

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PPG Industries, Inc. (NYSE:PPG  Get Rating) shares hit a new 52-week high on Tuesday . The stock traded as high as $142.04 and last traded at $141.35, with a volume of 47559 shares. The stock had previously closed at $140.93.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several equities research analysts recently weighed in on PPG shares. Credit Suisse Group lifted their price objective on PPG Industries from $118.00 to $128.00 in a report on Monday, April 3rd. Barclays lifted their target price on PPG Industries from $130.00 to $142.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Monday, April 10th. Royal Bank of Canada lifted their target price on PPG Industries from $133.00 to $143.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a report on Tuesday, April 4th. Mizuho reaffirmed a buy rating and set a $142.00 target price on shares of PPG Industries in a report on Tuesday, February 7th. Finally, Argus boosted their price objective on PPG Industries from $144.00 to $149.00 in a report on Monday, January 23rd. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, nine have assigned a hold rating and nine have issued a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $140.74.

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PPG Industries Stock Up 0.3 %

The company has a quick ratio of 1.04, a current ratio of 1.52 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.97. The stock has a market cap of $33.28 billion, a P/E ratio of 32.55, a P/E/G ratio of 2.80 and a beta of 1.17. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $130.79 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $126.57.

PPG Industries Announces Dividend

PPG Industries ( NYSE:PPG Get Rating ) last posted its earnings results on Friday, January 20th. The specialty chemicals company reported $1.22 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.14 by $0.08. PPG Industries had a return on equity of 22.55% and a net margin of 5.81%. The firm had revenue of $4.19 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $4.12 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the firm earned $1.26 earnings per share. The businesss revenue was down .1% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, equities analysts forecast that PPG Industries, Inc. will post 7 EPS for the current year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 10th. Shareholders of record on Friday, February 17th were issued a $0.62 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, February 16th. This represents a $2.48 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.75%. PPG Industriess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 57.27%.

Insider Activity

In related news, VP Anne M. Foulkes sold 21,757 shares of PPG Industries stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, January 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of $128.33, for a total transaction of $2,792,075.81. Following the sale, the vice president now owns 10,577 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,357,346.41. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. In other PPG Industries news, VP Anne M. Foulkes sold 21,757 shares of PPG Industries stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, January 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of $128.33, for a total value of $2,792,075.81. Following the sale, the vice president now owns 10,577 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,357,346.41. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, Chairman Michael H. Mcgarry sold 61,867 shares of PPG Industries stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, January 31st. The stock was sold at an average price of $129.96, for a total value of $8,040,235.32. Following the completion of the sale, the chairman now directly owns 183,645 shares in the company, valued at approximately $23,866,504.20. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Corporate insiders own 0.55% of the companys stock.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On PPG Industries

Large investors have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Xponance Inc. boosted its holdings in PPG Industries by 2.3% during the 1st quarter. Xponance Inc. now owns 41,743 shares of the specialty chemicals companys stock valued at $5,576,000 after acquiring an additional 952 shares during the period. Bill Few Associates Inc. boosted its holdings in PPG Industries by 58.2% during the 1st quarter. Bill Few Associates Inc. now owns 9,355 shares of the specialty chemicals companys stock valued at $1,250,000 after acquiring an additional 3,440 shares during the period. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of PPG Industries by 6.0% in the 1st quarter. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. now owns 2,598 shares of the specialty chemicals companys stock worth $327,000 after buying an additional 147 shares during the period. Czech National Bank lifted its holdings in shares of PPG Industries by 0.6% in the 1st quarter. Czech National Bank now owns 27,687 shares of the specialty chemicals companys stock worth $3,698,000 after buying an additional 177 shares during the period. Finally, City Holding Co. lifted its holdings in shares of PPG Industries by 27.0% in the 1st quarter. City Holding Co. now owns 480 shares of the specialty chemicals companys stock worth $64,000 after buying an additional 102 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 80.04% of the companys stock.

About PPG Industries

(Get Rating)

PPG Industries, Inc engages in the manufacture and distribution of paints, coatings, and specialty materials. It operates through the Performance Coatings and Industrial Coatings segments. The Performance Coatings segment supplies a variety of protective and decorative coatings, sealants, and finishes along with pavement marking products, paint strippers, stains, and related chemicals, as well as transparencies and transparent armor.

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PulteGroup (NYSE:PHM  Get Rating) had its target price lifted by Oppenheimer from $68.00 to $73.00 in a research note issued to investors on Friday morning, The Fly reports. The firm currently has an outperform rating on the construction companys stock.

PHM has been the topic of a number of other reports. The Goldman Sachs Group increased their price objective on shares of PulteGroup from $45.00 to $50.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Thursday, January 12th. Royal Bank of Canada increased their price objective on shares of PulteGroup from $46.00 to $54.00 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a research report on Wednesday, February 1st. Citigroup raised their target price on shares of PulteGroup from $56.00 to $68.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Thursday, February 2nd. StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of PulteGroup in a research report on Thursday, March 16th. They set a buy rating on the stock. Finally, Wedbush raised their target price on shares of PulteGroup from $47.00 to $57.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Wednesday, February 1st. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and twelve have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $62.21.

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PulteGroup Stock Up 0.7 %

Shares of NYSE PHM opened at $60.59 on Friday. The firms 50-day moving average price is $56.16 and its 200-day moving average price is $48.80. The company has a current ratio of 0.62, a quick ratio of 0.62 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.23. The stock has a market capitalization of $13.59 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 5.46, a P/E/G ratio of 0.51 and a beta of 1.33. PulteGroup has a 12-month low of $35.03 and a 12-month high of $60.89.

PulteGroup Dividend Announcement

PulteGroup ( NYSE:PHM Get Rating ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, January 31st. The construction company reported $3.63 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.88 by $0.75. PulteGroup had a net margin of 16.13% and a return on equity of 31.85%. The company had revenue of $5.17 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.59 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $2.51 EPS. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 18.7% on a year-over-year basis. On average, equities research analysts anticipate that PulteGroup will post 7.44 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, April 4th. Stockholders of record on Monday, March 20th were paid a dividend of $0.16 per share. The ex-dividend date was Friday, March 17th. This represents a $0.64 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.06%. PulteGroups dividend payout ratio is presently 5.77%.

Insider Activity

In other PulteGroup news, VP John J. Chadwick sold 29,817 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, February 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $56.63, for a total value of $1,688,536.71. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president now directly owns 87,428 shares in the company, valued at $4,951,047.64. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. In other PulteGroup news, EVP Todd N. Sheldon sold 15,998 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, March 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $53.83, for a total value of $861,172.34. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 82,339 shares in the company, valued at $4,432,308.37. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. Also, VP John J. Chadwick sold 29,817 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, February 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $56.63, for a total transaction of $1,688,536.71. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president now owns 87,428 shares of the companys stock, valued at $4,951,047.64. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last ninety days, insiders have sold 50,739 shares of company stock worth $2,845,149. Corporate insiders own 0.83% of the companys stock.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On PulteGroup

Several institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of PHM. American Century Companies Inc. raised its holdings in shares of PulteGroup by 9.5% in the first quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 55,196 shares of the construction companys stock worth $2,313,000 after buying an additional 4,799 shares during the last quarter. Cetera Advisor Networks LLC purchased a new position in shares of PulteGroup in the first quarter worth $221,000. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. raised its holdings in shares of PulteGroup by 1.7% in the first quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 22,505 shares of the construction companys stock worth $945,000 after buying an additional 382 shares during the last quarter. Acadian Asset Management LLC raised its holdings in shares of PulteGroup by 11.1% in the first quarter. Acadian Asset Management LLC now owns 4,487 shares of the construction companys stock worth $188,000 after buying an additional 449 shares during the last quarter. Finally, MetLife Investment Management LLC raised its holdings in shares of PulteGroup by 26.7% in the first quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC now owns 70,856 shares of the construction companys stock worth $2,969,000 after buying an additional 14,918 shares during the last quarter. 88.07% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

About PulteGroup

(Get Rating)

PulteGroup, Inc engages in the homebuilding business. The firm is also involved in mortgage banking and title and insurance brokerage operations. It operates through the Homebuilding and Financial services business segments. The Homebuilding segment includes operations from Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, Texas, Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, and Washington.

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River Road Asset Management LLC grew its holdings in shares of Lithia Motors, Inc. (NYSE:LAD  Get Rating) by 48.9% in the 4th quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The firm owned 40,046 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 13,152 shares during the quarter. River Road Asset Management LLCs holdings in Lithia Motors were worth $8,199,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Other large investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Barrow Hanley Mewhinney & Strauss LLC increased its holdings in Lithia Motors by 33.6% in the 3rd quarter. Barrow Hanley Mewhinney & Strauss LLC now owns 1,289,293 shares of the companys stock worth $276,618,000 after acquiring an additional 324,492 shares during the last quarter. Brave Warrior Advisors LLC increased its holdings in Lithia Motors by 14.6% in the 3rd quarter. Brave Warrior Advisors LLC now owns 1,136,208 shares of the companys stock worth $243,773,000 after acquiring an additional 144,907 shares during the last quarter. State Street Corp increased its holdings in Lithia Motors by 3.8% in the 1st quarter. State Street Corp now owns 807,874 shares of the companys stock worth $242,459,000 after acquiring an additional 29,352 shares during the last quarter. MFN Partners Management LP increased its holdings in Lithia Motors by 43.0% in the 1st quarter. MFN Partners Management LP now owns 751,077 shares of the companys stock worth $225,413,000 after acquiring an additional 225,806 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Royal London Asset Management Ltd. increased its holdings in Lithia Motors by 6.0% in the 3rd quarter. Royal London Asset Management Ltd. now owns 587,863 shares of the companys stock worth $126,064,000 after acquiring an additional 33,465 shares during the last quarter. 98.21% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Lithia Motors Stock Performance

Shares of LAD opened at $225.86 on Tuesday. The company has a market cap of $6.18 billion, a PE ratio of 5.13, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.63 and a beta of 1.39. The company has a current ratio of 1.46, a quick ratio of 0.38 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.06. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $239.82 and a 200-day moving average price of $227.50. Lithia Motors, Inc. has a 12-month low of $180.00 and a 12-month high of $322.17.

Lithia Motors Dividend Announcement

Lithia Motors ( NYSE:LAD Get Rating ) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, February 15th. The company reported $9.05 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $10.11 by ($1.06). The firm had revenue of $6.99 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $7.08 billion. Lithia Motors had a return on equity of 25.41% and a net margin of 4.43%. The firms quarterly revenue was up 10.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned $11.39 EPS. As a group, equities analysts forecast that Lithia Motors, Inc. will post 34.27 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 24th. Shareholders of record on Friday, March 10th were given a $0.42 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, March 9th. This represents a $1.68 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.74%. Lithia Motorss payout ratio is currently 3.81%.

Insider Buying and Selling at Lithia Motors

In other Lithia Motors news, Director Shauna Mcintyre sold 167 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, February 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $260.00, for a total value of $43,420.00. Following the completion of the sale, the director now owns 1,672 shares in the company, valued at $434,720. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Corporate insiders own 1.90% of the companys stock.

Analyst Ratings Changes

LAD has been the subject of several recent research reports. TheStreet raised Lithia Motors from a c+ rating to a b- rating in a report on Wednesday, February 1st. StockNews.com began coverage on Lithia Motors in a research note on Thursday, March 16th. They issued a hold rating for the company. Guggenheim cut their target price on Lithia Motors from $343.00 to $332.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, February 16th. Wells Fargo & Company raised their target price on Lithia Motors from $233.00 to $262.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research note on Thursday, February 16th. Finally, Morgan Stanley cut their target price on Lithia Motors from $200.00 to $198.00 and set an underweight rating for the company in a research note on Tuesday, January 17th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, four have issued a hold rating and four have issued a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, Lithia Motors presently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $301.89.

Lithia Motors Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Lithia Motors, Inc engages in the operation of automotive franchises and retail of new and used vehicles. It operates through the following segments: Domestic, Import and Luxury. The Domestic segment consists of retail automotive franchises that sell new vehicles manufactured by Chrysler, General Motors, and Ford.

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John Hancock Investors Trust (NYSE:JHI  Get Rating) was the recipient of a large growth in short interest during the month of March. As of March 31st, there was short interest totalling 16,900 shares, a growth of 89.9% from the March 15th total of 8,900 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 16,800 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 1.0 days.

Institutional Trading of John Hancock Investors Trust

A number of hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the stock. NewEdge Advisors LLC raised its holdings in John Hancock Investors Trust by 6.0% in the 1st quarter. NewEdge Advisors LLC now owns 48,788 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $819,000 after acquiring an additional 2,751 shares in the last quarter. Invesco Ltd. raised its holdings in John Hancock Investors Trust by 24.5% in the 1st quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 39,541 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $664,000 after acquiring an additional 7,777 shares in the last quarter. Capital Investment Advisors LLC increased its holdings in John Hancock Investors Trust by 31.8% in the 3rd quarter. Capital Investment Advisors LLC now owns 57,717 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $696,000 after buying an additional 13,936 shares during the period. Stratos Wealth Partners LTD. lifted its holdings in shares of John Hancock Investors Trust by 23.4% during the 3rd quarter. Stratos Wealth Partners LTD. now owns 69,050 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $833,000 after acquiring an additional 13,105 shares during the period. Finally, Avion Wealth acquired a new stake in shares of John Hancock Investors Trust during the 3rd quarter valued at about $60,000. 9.21% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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John Hancock Investors Trust Stock Down 0.4 %

JHI opened at $12.72 on Tuesday. The stocks 50 day moving average price is $12.77 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $12.78. John Hancock Investors Trust has a 12-month low of $11.80 and a 12-month high of $16.56.

John Hancock Investors Trust Cuts Dividend

About John Hancock Investors Trust

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, March 31st. Shareholders of record on Monday, March 13th were issued a $0.192 dividend. This represents a $0.77 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 6.04%. The ex-dividend date was Friday, March 10th.

(Get Rating)

John Hancock Investors Trust is a closed-ended fixed income mutual fund launched and managed by John Hancock Investment Management LLC. It is co-managed by John Hancock Asset Management. It invests in the fixed income markets across the globe. The fund primarily invests in a diversified portfolio of corporate and government bonds, debt securities.

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Stock Analysts price target changes for Tuesday, April 18th:

Advance Auto Parts (NYSE:AAP) had its target price increased by Evercore ISI to $145.00.

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Algonquin Power & Utilities (TSE:AQN) had its price target increased by JPMorgan Chase & Co. from C$11.00 to C$12.00.

Ascendant Resources (TSE:ASND)

had its target price reduced by HC Wainwright from C$0.45 to C$0.40.

Barratt Developments (LON:BDEV) had its price target boosted by JPMorgan Chase & Co. from GBX 400 ($4.95) to GBX 430 ($5.32). They currently have an overweight rating on the stock.

The Berkeley Group (LON:BKG) had its price target increased by JPMorgan Chase & Co. from GBX 4,500 ($55.69) to GBX 4,800 ($59.40). They currently have an overweight rating on the stock.

Bellway (LON:BWY) had its target price boosted by JPMorgan Chase & Co. from GBX 2,670 ($33.04) to GBX 2,870 ($35.52). They currently have an overweight rating on the stock.

Canadian Pacific Railway (TSE:CP) (NYSE:CP) was given a C$130.00 price target by analysts at BMO Capital Markets. The firm currently has an outperform rating on the stock.

Crest Nicholson (LON:CRST) had its price target trimmed by JPMorgan Chase & Co. from GBX 210 ($2.60) to GBX 180 ($2.23). The firm currently has an underweight rating on the stock.

Capstone Copper (TSE:CS) had its price target boosted by Royal Bank of Canada from C$6.00 to C$8.00.

Capstone Copper (TSE:CS) had its price target reduced by Scotiabank from C$9.00 to C$8.75.

Filo Mining (CVE:FIL) had its target price increased by Royal Bank of Canada from C$23.00 to C$24.00.

First Quantum Minerals (TSE:FM) had its price target increased by Royal Bank of Canada from C$32.00 to C$42.00.

First Quantum Minerals (TSE:FM) had its price target raised by Jefferies Financial Group Inc. from C$39.00 to C$40.00.

First Quantum Minerals (TSE:FM) had its target price boosted by Scotiabank from C$40.00 to C$41.00.

Foran Mining (CVE:FOM) had its price target increased by Scotiabank from C$4.00 to C$4.25.

HSBC (LON:HSBA) had its target price reduced by JPMorgan Chase & Co. from GBX 650 ($8.04) to GBX 630 ($7.80). JPMorgan Chase & Co. currently has a neutral rating on the stock.

Just Eat Takeaway.com (LON:JET) had its target price reduced by JPMorgan Chase & Co. from GBX 1,832 ($22.67) to GBX 1,491 ($18.45). JPMorgan Chase & Co. currently has a neutral rating on the stock.

Lundin Mining (TSE:LUN) had its price target boosted by UBS Group AG from C$9.00 to C$10.00.

Lundin Mining (TSE:LUN) had its price target raised by Royal Bank of Canada from C$9.00 to C$11.00.

MDA (TSE:MDA) was given a C$8.00 price target by analysts at Citigroup Inc.. The firm currently has a neutral rating on the stock.

PrairieSky Royalty (TSE:PSK) had its target price reduced by CIBC from C$27.00 to C$26.50.

Redrow (LON:RDW) had its target price boosted by JPMorgan Chase & Co. from GBX 400 ($4.95) to GBX 440 ($5.44). They currently have an underweight rating on the stock.

Superior Plus (TSE:SPB) was given a C$12.50 target price by analysts at BMO Capital Markets. The firm currently has an outperform rating on the stock.

Standard Chartered (LON:STAN) had its target price cut by JPMorgan Chase & Co. from GBX 1,000 ($12.37) to GBX 970 ($12.00). They currently have an overweight rating on the stock.

The Property Franchise Group (LON:TPFG) had its price target increased by Canaccord Genuity Group Inc. from GBX 437 ($5.41) to GBX 470 ($5.82). The firm currently has a buy rating on the stock.

Tesco (LON:TSCO) had its price target increased by JPMorgan Chase & Co. from GBX 270 ($3.34) to GBX 290 ($3.59). JPMorgan Chase & Co. currently has an overweight rating on the stock.

Taylor Wimpey (LON:TW) had its target price boosted by JPMorgan Chase & Co. from GBX 120 ($1.48) to GBX 130 ($1.61). They currently have a neutral rating on the stock.

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Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE:LUV  Get Rating) was the target of unusually large options trading on Tuesday. Stock traders bought 51,861 put options on the company. This represents an increase of 111% compared to the typical daily volume of 24,574 put options.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of research analysts have commented on the company. Melius lowered Southwest Airlines from an overweight rating to a neutral rating and set a $39.00 price objective on the stock. in a research report on Wednesday, February 15th. Citigroup dropped their price objective on Southwest Airlines from $40.00 to $39.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, January 9th. Morgan Stanley dropped their price objective on Southwest Airlines from $68.00 to $63.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, January 30th. Redburn Partners downgraded Southwest Airlines from a buy rating to a neutral rating and set a $40.00 price objective on the stock. in a research note on Wednesday, February 8th. Finally, StockNews.com started coverage on Southwest Airlines in a research note on Thursday, March 16th. They set a hold rating on the stock. Eight equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, five have given a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $47.07.

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Hedge Funds Weigh In On Southwest Airlines

Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Roundview Capital LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Southwest Airlines by 21.2% during the first quarter. Roundview Capital LLC now owns 13,336 shares of the airlines stock worth $611,000 after acquiring an additional 2,335 shares during the period. Acadian Asset Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of Southwest Airlines during the first quarter worth approximately $403,000. APG Asset Management N.V. boosted its holdings in shares of Southwest Airlines by 16.6% during the first quarter. APG Asset Management N.V. now owns 6,335 shares of the airlines stock worth $261,000 after acquiring an additional 900 shares during the period. Raymond James Trust N.A. boosted its holdings in shares of Southwest Airlines by 5.3% during the first quarter. Raymond James Trust N.A. now owns 12,187 shares of the airlines stock worth $559,000 after acquiring an additional 615 shares during the period. Finally, Cibc World Market Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Southwest Airlines by 3.2% during the first quarter. Cibc World Market Inc. now owns 40,189 shares of the airlines stock worth $1,841,000 after acquiring an additional 1,246 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 74.71% of the companys stock.

Southwest Airlines Stock Down 1.5 %

Shares of NYSE LUV traded down $0.50 during mid-day trading on Tuesday, hitting $31.81. The company had a trading volume of 17,070,170 shares, compared to its average volume of 6,859,350. The company has a market capitalization of $18.92 billion, a PE ratio of 40.39, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.38 and a beta of 1.15. The firm has a 50-day simple moving average of $32.75 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $34.81. The company has a current ratio of 1.43, a quick ratio of 1.35 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.75. Southwest Airlines has a one year low of $28.95 and a one year high of $50.10.

Southwest Airlines (NYSE:LUV  Get Rating) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, January 26th. The airline reported ($0.38) earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of ($0.03) by ($0.35). The company had revenue of $6.17 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $6.14 billion. Southwest Airlines had a net margin of 2.26% and a return on equity of 6.71%. Southwest Airliness revenue was up 22.2% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business earned $0.14 EPS. On average, equities analysts expect that Southwest Airlines will post 2.68 EPS for the current year.

Southwest Airlines Announces Dividend

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, March 29th. Investors of record on Wednesday, March 8th were issued a dividend of $0.18 per share. This represents a $0.72 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.26%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Tuesday, March 7th. Southwest Airliness payout ratio is currently 90.00%.

About Southwest Airlines

(Get Rating)

Southwest Airlines Co engages in the operation and management of a passenger airline. The firm also offers ancillary services such as early bird check-in, upgraded boarding, and transportation of pets and unaccompanied minors. It operates in the United States, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Mexico, Jamaica, the Bahamas, Aruba, Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, Belize, Cuba, the Cayman Islands, and Turks and Caicos.

Further Reading

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Stock Yards Bank & Trust Co. cut its stake in shares of The Hershey Company (NYSE:HSY  Get Rating) by 1.6% during the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 9,094 shares of the companys stock after selling 150 shares during the period. Stock Yards Bank & Trust Co.s holdings in Hershey were worth $2,106,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other large investors have also bought and sold shares of the company. Dupont Capital Management Corp lifted its stake in Hershey by 26.3% during the 3rd quarter. Dupont Capital Management Corp now owns 5,959 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,314,000 after acquiring an additional 1,241 shares in the last quarter. State of New Jersey Common Pension Fund D raised its stake in shares of Hershey by 1.2% during the 3rd quarter. State of New Jersey Common Pension Fund D now owns 83,868 shares of the companys stock worth $18,490,000 after purchasing an additional 997 shares during the period. Sumitomo Mitsui DS Asset Management Company Ltd raised its stake in shares of Hershey by 8.5% during the 4th quarter. Sumitomo Mitsui DS Asset Management Company Ltd now owns 15,430 shares of the companys stock worth $3,573,000 after purchasing an additional 1,207 shares during the period. Handelsbanken Fonder AB raised its stake in shares of Hershey by 0.8% during the 3rd quarter. Handelsbanken Fonder AB now owns 76,681 shares of the companys stock worth $16,906,000 after purchasing an additional 614 shares during the period. Finally, Alpha Omega Wealth Management LLC raised its stake in shares of Hershey by 6.1% during the 3rd quarter. Alpha Omega Wealth Management LLC now owns 1,310 shares of the companys stock worth $289,000 after purchasing an additional 75 shares during the period. 54.17% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Hershey Stock Performance

Shares of HSY opened at $259.03 on Tuesday. The company has a market cap of $52.85 billion, a PE ratio of 32.54, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.57 and a beta of 0.31. The company has a current ratio of 0.80, a quick ratio of 0.44 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.01. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $245.02 and a 200-day moving average price of $234.42. The Hershey Company has a 12-month low of $201.42 and a 12-month high of $261.17.

Hershey Announces Dividend

Hershey ( NYSE:HSY Get Rating ) last released its earnings results on Thursday, February 2nd. The company reported $2.02 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.77 by $0.25. The company had revenue of $2.65 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.58 billion. Hershey had a return on equity of 57.76% and a net margin of 15.79%. Hersheys quarterly revenue was up 14.0% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $1.69 EPS. As a group, equities analysts forecast that The Hershey Company will post 9.37 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, March 15th. Investors of record on Friday, February 17th were given a $1.036 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, February 16th. This represents a $4.14 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.60%. Hersheys payout ratio is 52.01%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several equities research analysts recently weighed in on the company. Jefferies Financial Group lifted their price objective on Hershey from $251.00 to $260.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a report on Thursday, March 23rd. Stifel Nicolaus assumed coverage on Hershey in a report on Thursday, April 13th. They issued a hold rating and a $243.00 price objective for the company. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft lifted their price objective on Hershey from $237.00 to $251.00 in a report on Thursday, March 23rd. Credit Suisse Group lifted their price objective on Hershey from $250.00 to $260.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Friday, February 3rd. Finally, Evercore ISI lifted their price objective on Hershey from $250.00 to $255.00 and gave the stock an in-line rating in a report on Thursday, March 23rd. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, eleven have assigned a hold rating and four have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $249.94.

Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, CEO Michele Buck sold 14,251 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, April 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of $256.43, for a total value of $3,654,383.93. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 141,751 shares in the company, valued at approximately $36,349,208.93. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. In other Hershey news, SVP Jason Reiman sold 555 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, February 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of $238.92, for a total value of $132,600.60. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president now owns 20,480 shares in the company, valued at $4,893,081.60. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, CEO Michele Buck sold 14,251 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, April 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $256.43, for a total value of $3,654,383.93. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 141,751 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $36,349,208.93. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold 51,244 shares of company stock worth $12,579,684 in the last quarter. 0.22% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Hershey Company Profile

(Get Rating)

The Hershey Co engages in the manufacture and marketing of chocolate, sweets, mints and confectionery products. The firm operates through the following geographical segments: North America and International and Other. The North America is responsible for the traditional chocolate and non-chocolate confectionery market position of the company, as well as its grocery and snacks market positions, in the United States and Canada.

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Taylor Morrison Home Co. (NYSE:TMHC  Get Rating) Director William H. Lyon sold 3,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Monday, April 17th. The stock was sold at an average price of $38.52, for a total value of $115,560.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now owns 44,127 shares in the company, valued at $1,699,772.04. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink.

Taylor Morrison Home Trading Up 1.9 %

TMHC traded up $0.73 on Tuesday, hitting $39.24. 830,732 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 917,598. The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of $36.38 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $31.89. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.53, a quick ratio of 1.01 and a current ratio of 5.59. Taylor Morrison Home Co. has a 12 month low of $20.05 and a 12 month high of $39.26. The stock has a market capitalization of $4.25 billion, a PE ratio of 4.22 and a beta of 1.71.

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Taylor Morrison Home (NYSE:TMHC  Get Rating) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, February 15th. The construction company reported $2.93 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.91 by $0.02. Taylor Morrison Home had a return on equity of 24.86% and a net margin of 12.80%. The business had revenue of $2.49 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $2.32 billion. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $2.19 EPS. The businesss revenue was down .5% on a year-over-year basis. Sell-side analysts expect that Taylor Morrison Home Co. will post 6.46 earnings per share for the current year.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the company. TCI Wealth Advisors Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Taylor Morrison Home by 87.7% in the 4th quarter. TCI Wealth Advisors Inc. now owns 933 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $28,000 after purchasing an additional 436 shares during the period. Investors Asset Management of Georgia Inc. GA ADV bought a new position in Taylor Morrison Home during the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $41,000. Assetmark Inc. increased its position in Taylor Morrison Home by 47.6% during the 3rd quarter. Assetmark Inc. now owns 1,802 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $42,000 after buying an additional 581 shares in the last quarter. Lazard Asset Management LLC bought a new position in Taylor Morrison Home during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $44,000. Finally, Exchange Traded Concepts LLC increased its position in Taylor Morrison Home by 213.1% during the 4th quarter. Exchange Traded Concepts LLC now owns 1,813 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $55,000 after buying an additional 1,234 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 96.33% of the companys stock.

Several brokerages have recently commented on TMHC. Barclays increased their price objective on Taylor Morrison Home from $35.00 to $40.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research report on Thursday, February 16th. Credit Suisse Group increased their price objective on Taylor Morrison Home from $33.00 to $41.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, February 16th. Finally, StockNews.com initiated coverage on Taylor Morrison Home in a research report on Thursday, March 16th. They set a buy rating on the stock. Five research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Taylor Morrison Home presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $34.21.

Taylor Morrison Home Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Taylor Morrison Home Corp. engages in the business of residential homebuilding and the development of lifestyle communities. It operates through the following segments: East, Central, West, and Financial Services. The East segment includes operations in Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, Orlando, Raleigh, Southwest Florida, and Tampa regions.

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Vermilion Energy (TSE:VET  Get Rating) (NYSE:VET) had its target price lowered by analysts at National Bank Financial from C$29.00 to C$26.00 in a report issued on Tuesday, The Fly reports. National Bank Financials price target would suggest a potential upside of 40.39% from the stocks current price.

Other equities research analysts have also recently issued reports about the company. BMO Capital Markets lowered their target price on Vermilion Energy from C$23.00 to C$22.00 in a report on Monday, March 27th. Desjardins decreased their price objective on Vermilion Energy from C$31.00 to C$30.00 in a research note on Monday, March 13th. TD Securities cut Vermilion Energy from a buy rating to a hold rating and decreased their price objective for the stock from C$29.00 to C$21.00 in a research note on Wednesday, March 29th. Royal Bank of Canada decreased their price objective on Vermilion Energy from C$29.00 to C$27.00 and set a sector perform rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, March 9th. Finally, Raymond James decreased their price objective on Vermilion Energy from C$31.00 to C$25.00 in a research note on Tuesday, April 11th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and five have issued a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of C$27.50.

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Vermilion Energy Stock Up 1.9 %

Shares of VET stock traded up C$0.34 during mid-day trading on Tuesday, hitting C$18.52. The stock had a trading volume of 929,119 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,408,118. Vermilion Energy has a 12-month low of C$16.41 and a 12-month high of C$39.21. The firm has a market capitalization of C$3.00 billion, a P/E ratio of 2.38, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of -0.02 and a beta of 2.92. The firms 50-day moving average is C$18.17 and its two-hundred day moving average is C$22.96. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 33.88, a current ratio of 0.80 and a quick ratio of 0.40.

Insider Activity

Vermilion Energy Company Profile

In other news, Senior Officer Lars William Glemser sold 19,379 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, March 22nd. The stock was sold at an average price of C$17.60, for a total value of C$340,973.51. Corporate insiders own 0.14% of the companys stock.

(Get Rating)

Vermilion Energy Inc, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the acquisition, exploration, development, and production of petroleum and natural gas in North America, Europe, and Australia. The company owns 81% working interest in 636,714 net acres of developed land and 85% working interest in 301,026 net acres of undeveloped land in Canada; 130,715 net acres of land in the Powder River basin in the United States; 96% working interest in 248,873 net acres of developed land and 86% working interest in 134,160 net acres of undeveloped land in the Aquitaine and Paris Basins in France; 53% working interest in 901,791 net acres of land in the Netherlands; 54,625 net developed acres and 920,723 net undeveloped acres in Germany; 975,375 net acres land in Croatia; 946,666 net acres land in Hungary; and 48,954 net acres land in Slovakia.

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DUBLIN, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Embolic Protection Device Market, Global Forecast 2023-2027, Industry Trends, Growth, Impact of Inflation, Opportunity Company Analysis" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

Research and Markets Logo

Global Embolic Protection Device Market is forecasted to grow and reach US$ 713.6 Million by 2027. Embolic Protection Devices are catheter-based devices that are used to capture atherothrombotic debris that is released during percutaneous vascular interventions.

The embolic protection device has helped reduce the number of complications that are caused due to the release of junk in the bloodstream, which results in blockages in small vessels. Percutaneous intervention for treating coronary and peripheral atherosclerotic disease has become a well-established technique and has been recently extended to the carotid arena.



Global Embolic Protection Device industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.9% during Forecast period.



The rise in the elderly population, the increase in cardiovascular cases, and the growing preference for minimally invasive procedures are some factors that add to the growth of the global embolic protection devices market. According to the World Heart Federation (WHF), every year, 15 million people suffer from stroke. And, each year, brain aneurysms account for approximately 50,000 deaths, per the statistics published by the Brain Aneurysm Foundation (BAF). It also found that aneurysms are more common among the age group 40 to 60.



Furthermore, the manufacturers involved in the embolic protection devices are majorly engaged in increasing product reliability, product range expansion, and investing in research & development activities. As a result, according to our research, the global embolic protection device market was at US$ 486.2 Million in 2022.



Nevertheless, the availability of alternatives and strict regulations enforced by society are the restraining factors of the market.



Easy operation to push Distar Filter market demand in upcoming years



Based on products, the worldwide embolic protection devices market is segmented into; distar filter devices, distar occlusion devices, and proximal occlusion devices. The distar filter devices have dominated the market share through the years and are expected to grow significantly during the forecast period. The reason for its constant growth through the years is the availability of a wide range of specifications and escalating uptake of distal filters, and the usage of distal filters helps in maintaining the flow of blood and traps large debris beneficial in comparison to proximal occlusion systems. The distal occlusion devices are expected to increase due to the ease of usage offered by devices and the accessibility of the devices and filters across specifications.



Rising cases of Peripheral vascular diseases will foster application segment outlook



The report divides the application segment into; cardiovascular diseases, neurovascular diseases, and peripheral vascular diseases. Peripheral vascular diseases are forecasted to grow at an increasing rate. This growth can be attributed to raising awareness of minimally invasive procedures and increasing cases of lifestyle disorders that lead to different kinds of serious diseases. In the U.S., around 12-20% of people aged 60+ years are estimated to suffer from peripheral vascular disorders, according to the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).



Cardiovascular diseases are rising due to the increase in the older population worldwide. This is the major contributor to the growth and dominance of the segment over the years. In addition, the collective number of skilled healthcare professionals and access to technologically improved medical devices in hospitals will also contribute to the market's growth.



High-quality treatment in minimal time to accelerate hospital market trends



The end-user category is divided into; hospitals and ambulatory surgical centers. Hospital dominance can be attributed to the rising incidence of cardiovascular diseases, the availability of skilled and experienced medical personnel, increasing demand for surgical procedures in hospitals, and technologically improved and new medical devices.



Asia Pacific is expected to witness lucrative growth in the next few years



Geographically, the global embolic devices market is split up into; North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle-East, and Africa. However, the North American region has the highest revenue. The region's high market share can be attributed to the rising prevalence of neurovascular and cardiovascular diseases and increasing cases of obesity, lifestyle patterns, and unhealthy eating habits.



However, Asia Pacific is expected to witness lucrative growth during the upcoming years. The region's growth can be attributed to funding and investments from public and private entities, improved healthcare infrastructure, and rising disposable income. Also, the major international companies are focusing on this region due to the presence of new and unexplored opportunities, which is also expected to add to the growth potential over the forecast period. Furthermore, a high geriatric population in the region is also contributing to its growth. For instance- According to World Health Organisation (WHO), China's aging population reached 254 million in 2019 and is expected to reach 402 million by 2040.



In May 2022, Medtronic acquired Intersect ENT to improve and treat nasal polyps and postoperative outcomes.



In February 2022, Boston Scientific acquired Baylis Medical Company. This acquisition allows Boston Scientific to integrate the Baylis platforms with our existing electrophysiology and structural heart offerings, further strengthening position within the highest-growth cardiology markets.



Product - Embolic Protection Devices Market breakup from 3 viewpoints:



1. Distal Filter Devices

2. Distal Occlusion Devices

3. Proximal Occlusion Devices



Application - Embolic Protection Devices Market breakup from 3 viewpoints:



1. Cardiovascular diseases

2. Neurovascular diseases

3. Proximal vascular diseases



End-user - Embolic Protection Devices Market breakup from 2 viewpoints:



1. Hospitals

2. Ambulatory Surgical Centres



Region - Embolic Protection Devices Market breakup from 5 Regions:



1. North America

2. Europe

3. Asia-Pacific

4. Latin America

5. Middle-East & Africa



Key Topics Covered:



1. Introduction



2. Research & Methodology



3. Executive Summary



4. Market Dynamics



5. Global Embolic Protection Device Market



6. Market Share - Global Embolic Protection Device Analysis



7. Product - Global Embolic Protection Device Market



8. Application - Global Embolic Protection Device Market



9. End User - Embolic Protection Device Market



10. Region - Global Embolic Protection Device Market



11. Company Profiles



Companies Mentioned

Story continues

Medtronic

Abbott Laboratories

Boston Scientific

Cordis

Silk Road Medical

Abiomed

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/gik1p8

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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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B. Riley initiated coverage on shares of Vishay Precision Group (NYSE:VPG  Get Rating) in a report published on Friday, MarketBeat.com reports. The firm issued a buy rating and a $54.00 price target on the scientific and technical instruments companys stock. B. Riley also issued estimates for Vishay Precision Groups Q1 2023 earnings at $0.53 EPS, Q2 2023 earnings at $0.56 EPS, Q3 2023 earnings at $0.64 EPS, Q4 2023 earnings at $0.71 EPS and FY2024 earnings at $2.92 EPS.

Separately, StockNews.com began coverage on Vishay Precision Group in a research report on Thursday, March 16th. They issued a strong-buy rating for the company.

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Vishay Precision Group Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:VPG opened at $40.88 on Friday. The firms 50 day moving average is $42.05 and its two-hundred day moving average is $39.42. Vishay Precision Group has a 52 week low of $27.03 and a 52 week high of $45.69. The firm has a market capitalization of $555.07 million, a P/E ratio of 15.48 and a beta of 1.33. The company has a current ratio of 3.91, a quick ratio of 2.60 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.20.

Insider Buying and Selling at Vishay Precision Group

Vishay Precision Group ( NYSE:VPG Get Rating ) last announced its earnings results on Tuesday, February 14th. The scientific and technical instruments company reported $0.76 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.62 by $0.14. The firm had revenue of $96.24 million for the quarter. Vishay Precision Group had a return on equity of 12.37% and a net margin of 9.95%. During the same period in the previous year, the firm earned $0.56 EPS.

In related news, Director Wes Cummins bought 7,500 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Thursday, February 23rd. The shares were bought at an average cost of $44.72 per share, for a total transaction of $335,400.00. Following the completion of the acquisition, the director now directly owns 446,792 shares in the company, valued at $19,980,538.24. The acquisition was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this link. Insiders have purchased a total of 57,500 shares of company stock worth $2,454,150 over the last three months. Corporate insiders own 6.78% of the companys stock.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Vishay Precision Group

A number of institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in VPG. Swiss National Bank increased its stake in shares of Vishay Precision Group by 7.6% in the first quarter. Swiss National Bank now owns 29,800 shares of the scientific and technical instruments companys stock worth $958,000 after purchasing an additional 2,100 shares during the period. MetLife Investment Management LLC increased its stake in Vishay Precision Group by 54.8% during the first quarter. MetLife Investment Management LLC now owns 8,155 shares of the scientific and technical instruments companys stock valued at $262,000 after acquiring an additional 2,888 shares during the period. LSV Asset Management increased its stake in Vishay Precision Group by 11.7% during the first quarter. LSV Asset Management now owns 327,807 shares of the scientific and technical instruments companys stock valued at $10,539,000 after acquiring an additional 34,345 shares during the period. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its stake in Vishay Precision Group by 0.7% during the first quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 604,989 shares of the scientific and technical instruments companys stock valued at $19,451,000 after acquiring an additional 4,189 shares during the period. Finally, Gamco Investors INC. ET AL increased its stake in Vishay Precision Group by 6.9% during the first quarter. Gamco Investors INC. ET AL now owns 18,584 shares of the scientific and technical instruments companys stock valued at $597,000 after acquiring an additional 1,200 shares during the period. 77.31% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

Vishay Precision Group Company Profile

(Get Rating)

Vishay Precision Group, Inc engages in the provision of precision measurement and sensing technologies. The firm serves a diverse array of industries and markets, including industrial, test and measurement, transportation, steel, medical, agriculture, avionics, military and space, and consumer. It operates through the following segments: Sensors, Weighing Solutions, Measurement Systems, and Corporate and Other.

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budget airlines

The net zero crusade is in danger of unravelling.

Every time fresh evidence emerges of its true impact, the case for barrelling towards the Governments self-imposed deadline suffers another damaging blow.

For a better example of the effect that it is having both on peoples lives and electoral politics, youd be hard pushed to beat the ultra-low emissions zone that Sadiq Khan has imposed on Londons motorists.

The scheme has caused apoplexy among drivers, and with the Mayor accused of ignoring the needs of ordinary people, it represents the most serious threat to his bid to remain in office.

Still, if the capitals voters think a decision to expand the 12.50-a-day Ulez charge to outer London boroughs is bad, imagine the fury if people wake up one day to discover they can no longer afford to go on holidays abroad.

Demonstrators attend protest against ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) expansion across all London boroughs - REUTERS/Maja Smiejkowska

Decarbonising air travel was always going to come with massive costs.

The chief question is who will foot the bill for such an enormous undertaking. In keeping with all things net zero, it is no surprise to learn that it increasingly looks as if the financial burden is likely to be at least partially shouldered by the consumer.

That such a warning has come from a collective of some of the worlds biggest airlines is no surprise.

The sector talks a good game when it comes to cleaning up its act, espousing the opportunities that could come from going green yet it seems reluctant to make the massive investment needed.

In highlighting the costs of switching to more expensive sustainable aviation fuel, the major airlines hope to cajole the Government into partly subsidising the transition.

It is also plainly in the interests of the airline industry to indulge in a little scaremongering.

Stirring discontent and unease throws sand in the wheels of the green revolution, giving big business longer to adapt, and what better way to do that than pointing out that the shift will also partly be paid for out of the pockets of holidaymakers?

Story continues

Still, at least the impact of net zero has so far remained largely hypothetical.

For all the anger about green levies, household energy bills have been driven higher by fossil fuels and Russias invasion of Ukraine, not the cost of building more wind and solar farms.

Even the Governments short-sighted petrol and diesel car ban is still years away, albeit looming increasingly large in the rear-view mirror.

A de facto tax on greener flights would be one of the first, real tangible costs that has a big impact on peoples lives.

Prices could jump as much as 20pc, according to the Sustainable Aviation Group.



Yet at the same as highlighting the likelihood of a green premium, it cant quite make its mind up as to how damaging such a development would be.

Though some will be put off, most people will still want to fly despite what it calls slightly higher costs.

In fact, annual passenger numbers are still expected to grow significantly  by nearly 250m by 2050  because most travellers are happy to pay a bit more to travel, it predicts.

It would be easy for the Government to be dismissive, too.

Sitting in Westminster, there will be a temptation to be snobbish about the idea of a weeks all-inclusive in Benidorm  but for many people, getting away every year ranks top of their priorities, and the advent of the budget airline industry means that overseas travel is often cheaper than holidaying in Britain.

Our ministers overlook the importance of foreign getaways to the public consciousness at their peril.

Any suggestion that overseas holidays, like electric cars, have become the preserve of the rich, would trigger widespread discontent that would make the Ulez backlash look like a storm in a teacup.

Net zero and the fight against climate change is enough of a confused mess as it is without denying hard-working families a well-earned summer break.

Everywhere our political overlords turn, they run into another humiliating dilemma caused by the blind pursuit of decarbonisation.

On Monday, Germany, bullied into a u-turn by the countrys catastrophising eco-fascists, pulled the plug on its last three nuclear power plants.

The move was a massive victory for the anti-nuclear movement, whose opposition had grown louder following the Fukushima disaster of 2011, but as an act of self-harm there arent many greater.

The move is a massive setback for energy security, and German emissions, with much of the lost output having been replaced by coal-fired power plants.

Elsewhere, a crunch weekend meeting of G7 energy ministers ended without an agreement on a deadline to halt new coal investments as the reality of the ongoing energy crunch continues to bite; Joe Bidens climate presidency has been eviscerated by his approval of another Alaskan gas mega-project in the space of just a few short weeks; and our own Governments heat pump programme has been a disaster, undermined by prohibitive costs and ineffective technology.

There are worrying parallels with the state response to lockdown with ministers once again enthralled by the science without any real thought afforded to the consequences for a typical household.

Thats not to say the science is wrong  but experts and technocrats dont live in the real world, nor do they understand what it takes to get elected.

If net zero goes too far, too quickly, there is a risk that the pendulum swings back the other way, setting legitimate efforts to tackle climate change back decades.
Wang Mengping, 24, a Hani woman from Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture (in Southwest China's Yunnan Province), is the conductor of the China-Laos Lane Xang EMU (electric multiple unit) train. She is the youngest Chinese conductor working in Laos. As she has developed her career during the past several years, she has taken delight in witnessing the rapid development of the China-Laos Railway.

Youngest Conductor

During the past decade, China has experienced rapid development in its rail infrastructure and industry. That, in turn, has promoted economic cooperation and cultural exchanges between Chinese and residents of other countries. Wang is an outstanding example of the numerous cadres and workers (with organizations related to railway transportation services) who have made tremendous contributions to the promotion of China's rail development during the past decade.

In 2017, Wang enrolled in the Lao department, at Kunming Metallurgy College (in Kunming, capital of Southwest China's Yunnan Province). Two years later, she was sent to the National University of Laos, as one of the exchange students between China and the Lao People's Democratic Republic. Since then, she has had a deep bond with the Laos.

During the summer of 2020, Wang began working at China Railway Kunming Bureau Group Co. Ltd., under China Railway Corporation. In September 2021, she applied to work in Laos after she learned the company planned to send some employees to Laos to participate in the construction of the China-Laos Railway.

"The China-Laos Railway is not only a landmark project of the Belt and Road Initiative (the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2013), but it is also a flagship project of the deep friendship between Chinese and Lao people ... I, a Party (Communist Party of China) member, should become a forerunner of building the cultural bridge between China and Laos," Wang says.

During the past year, she has witnessed the rapid development of the China-Laos Railway. Now, Wang, 24, is the conductor of the China-Laos Lane Xang EMU train. She is the youngest Chinese conductor working in Laos.

Becoming Ideal Self

Wang will never forget December 3, 2020. That was the day she joined the Party. The China-Laos Railway started operation one year later, on December 3, 2021. "I take pride in witnessing the rapid development of the China-Laos Railway," Wang says. Many of her colleagues have been impressed by her strong sense of responsibility, and by her eagerness to learn. Wang was determined to make constant efforts to improve the services on the China-Laos Lane Xang EMU train.

Given her persevering efforts to realize her life's goal, and to pursue her dream, Wang has gradually become her ideal self. "As a Party member, I have felt obliged to do my bit to promote national development and prosperity. Only when our mother country becomes a prosperous, powerful State, can our small families live in peace and harmony," says Wang.

Despite her tight schedule, Wang manages to find time to read books, to broaden her vision and increase her knowledge.

In the report to the 20th CPC (Communist Party of China) National Congress (held in Beijing in October 2022), Chinese President Xi Jinping stressed China will promote high-standard opening up. "We will steadily expand institutional opening up with regard to rules, regulations, management, and standards," Xi has been quoted as saying. He also stressed China will accelerate its transformation into a trader of quality, promote the high-quality development of the Belt and Road Initiative, and make endeavors to preserve the diversity and stability of the international economic landscape, including economic and trade relations.

Keeping in mind the spirit of the congress, Wang maintains a realistic, down-to-earth work attitude. "I will work harder to promote the construction of the China-Laos Railway," she says.

Women of China (WOC) recently interviewed Wang.

The following is an excerpt of that interview:

WOC: How does it feel being the youngest Chinese conductor on the China-Laos Lane Xang EMU train?

Wang: I'm lucky I have had the opportunity to contribute my wisdom and strength to the promotion of the construction of the China-Laos Railway. As I try my best to solve difficulties in my work, I receive immense joy and a sense of accomplishment.

WOC: Compared with men, what advantages do women have in working as train conductors?

Wang: I believe women conductors have advantages in providing quality services to passengers. For example, the women tend to be thoughtful and warm-hearted, and they have good communication and coordination skills. Also, women tend to be more careful than men, and women can cope with a sudden crisis and potential risk rapidly.

WOC: What can train conductors do to improve their work?

Wang: Train conductors should strive to increase their professional knowledge, so they can guarantee trains' safe operation. They should also try their best to improve work efficiency.

Photos Supplied by the Women's Federation of Xishuangbanna, Yang Yongquan and Interviewee

(Women of China English Monthly March 2023 issue)
Police find man with 'condition that places him in danger' reported missing in Carbondale
Williamson County pastor, Daryl Hayes, was indicted after investigators found he used his churchs internet connection to upload images of child sex abuse online, according to the Williamson County Sheriffs Office.
Kentucky State Police Post 1 says these still images taken from security video show suspects in a Graves County burglary case.
DUBLIN, April 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Epoxy Coating Market Size, Share, Trends, By Product, By Application, and By Region Forecast to 2030" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

Research and Markets Logo

The epoxy coating market has witnessed substantial growth in recent years, with the global market size reaching USD 33.97 billion in 2021.

This market is expected to continue growing rapidly, with a projected revenue CAGR of 5.2% during the forecast period. The growth of this market can be attributed to several factors, including the increasing demand for paints and coatings in various industries, such as transportation, as well as the rising emphasis by governments on reducing VOC content in epoxy-based paints and coatings. The market is also being driven by the growing demand for waterborne and powder-based coatings.



Epoxy coatings are known for their durability and can be used for a variety of purposes, including as strong adhesives and durable paints and coatings for floors and metals. These coatings are created by using epoxide resin and a polyamine hardener to generate a chemical reaction that results in a strong, long-lasting, and chemically resistant substance.

One of the most common applications of epoxy coating is as a paint or coating. Additionally, epoxy coatings are popular due to their quick drying time, durability, and protective covering for metals and other materials.

Compared to conventional heat-cured powder coatings, epoxy coatings are simple and quick to apply, making them ideal for various applications. Moreover, epoxy materials and epoxy coating compounds can be used in a range of applications as strong adhesives due to their superior thermal, electrical, and mechanical resistance qualities.



The characteristics of epoxy paints are determined by the epoxide content in epoxy resins. There are several grades of epoxy resin, such as 100% solids epoxy, high solids epoxies, polyamide epoxies, and water-based epoxies, that are often combined with additives, plasticizers, and fillers to achieve the desired paint quality.

Story continues

Epoxy coatings provide excellent protection against acids and alkalis, good abrasion resistance, and have very little or no Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). Manufacturers are focusing on reducing VOC emissions to comply with environmental protection laws and to mitigate the associated health risks. This has led to increased investments in R&D activities to produce environment-friendly epoxy coatings, which is expected to drive market revenue growth during the forecast period.



Overall, the growth of the epoxy coating market can be attributed to its various applications, durability, and protective properties, as well as the increasing demand for environment-friendly coatings.



Market Dynamics

Increasing Demand from the Transportation Industry



The market for epoxy coatings is experiencing rapid revenue growth due to increasing demand in the transportation industry, particularly in the trucking sector, as well as a rise in public transportation linked to urbanization. The market growth is driven by improving economic conditions, which is spurred by tax incentives and a surge in demand for heavy-duty vehicles to meet lower emission standards. Epoxy coatings are preferred in applications such as agriculture, construction, earthmoving, trucks, buses, railways, motorcycles, and specialized vehicles due to their higher efficiency and greater throughput.

Additionally, epoxy coatings offer superior metal adhesion and corrosion resistance, and the ability to apply a thin, uniform coating directly onto the metal, even in hard-to-reach areas. This provides a seamless protective covering on vehicle bodies and other important metal parts.

Automotive manufacturers are increasingly adopting waterborne epoxy coatings for their low viscosity, resistance to shock, vibration, and impact, as well as their electrical insulation, high/low-temperature protection, and high-performance structural bonding. These factors are expected to drive the growth of the market revenue.

High Commodity Pricing



The shortage of raw materials such as BPA and various types of solvents has led to an increase in prices of epoxy coating. The prices of exporting and importing abroad have also risen due to a lack of available containers. The prices of commodities have fluctuated as a result of a global shortage of raw materials. As a result of this price increase, manufacturers, distributors, and store owners are compelled to pass on the price hikes to end consumers, thus hindering revenue growth during the forecast period.



Product Insights:



The global epoxy coating market is segmented into solvent borne, waterborne, and powder, based on the product. During the forecast period, the solvent borne segment is expected to register rapid revenue growth due to its increased demand for superior curing and the need to prevent material surface corrosion. Solvent-borne epoxy coatings are commonly used in industrial and commercial applications as a topcoat due to their increased durability, performance, and tolerance of petroleum contaminants in a concrete surface. They are excellent for garage floors and parking buildings for a glossier finish.

Compared to water-borne coatings, solvent-borne epoxy coatings tend to be more durable during the coating's curing process. They are also preferable in humid situations where water-borne coatings cannot fully cure. Solvent-borne coatings are used in industrial environments, such as warehouses, garages, power plants, pulp and paper mills, water and sewage treatment plants, and mining operations, as well as on floors and equipment, due to their viscosity, excellent adhesion properties, and relative ease of use. Thin films act as better curing agents in these environments.



Application Insights:



The global epoxy coating market is segmented into construction, industrial, transportation, and others, based on application. During the forecast period, the construction segment is expected to register a steady revenue growth rate due to the rising need for the manufacture of adhesives, plastics, paints, coatings, primers and sealers, flooring, and other products and materials used in building and construction applications. Epoxy is known to be the highest-strength, which enables the production of the lightest component and the most robust module by providing the strongest bond between resin and reinforcement. Therefore, epoxy coatings are applied to floors for coating purposes in the building business.

A variety of layers are applied during the installation of epoxy floor coating, including body coat, topcoat, and priming layer that act as a sealant. This makes the floor thicker and more resilient than one that has only had one or two coats of paint, which raises the demand for epoxy coating in the building industry. Additionally, adding epoxy coating to concrete floors gives them a smooth, long-lasting surface and improves their capacity to support heavier loads.

Moreover, coating not only provides toughness and resilience but also minimizes machinery damage and is stain- and chemical-resistant while delivering high gloss. Furthermore, epoxy coating is used in buildings to give appealing aesthetics. All these factors are expected to drive revenue growth of this segment.



Regional Insights:



Regional analysis indicates that North America is expected to hold the largest share of the global epoxy coating market during the forecast period. This is due to the presence of major market players in the region such as PPG Industries, Inc., Axalta Coating System, RPM International, Inc., and Thermal-Chem Corporation, among others. The US government's focus on coatings that do not emit volatile organic compounds is expected to boost demand for epoxy coating in the region. Private companies' increasing investments in the paint and coating industry in North America are also expected to drive market revenue growth. The US airforce has also adopted epoxy coatings in aircraft and satellite systems for their strength and lightweight properties, which results in decreased emissions and improved performance.



In the Asia Pacific region, rapid revenue growth rate is expected due to the growing construction industry and chemical and electronics manufacturing in countries such as China and India. China accounted for a significant share of the world's manufacturing output of consumer electronics in 2019. In addition, the transportation industry in this region is also growing, which has driven adoption of epoxy coatings for providing structural integrity and durability in transportation equipment.

Rising disposable incomes, changing lifestyles, and government regulations on VOC emissions are expected to contribute to market growth. The presence of major market players, such as NIPSEA GROUP, Asian paints, and Kansai Paint Co., Ltd., is also expected to drive market revenue growth in this region.



Europe is expected to register a considerably robust CAGR during the forecast period due to rapid growth of the electronics and automotive industry in this region. The German electronic industry is the largest in Europe and the fifth largest globally. Epoxy coating protects highly polished metals in the lighting industry and benefits one- and two-component heat-resistant glass coatings.

Germany is also the world's fourth-largest automotive manufacturer. The growing presence of major automakers such as Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz AG, Audi, and BMW, among others, is expected to drive demand for epoxy coating in this region as it prevents corrosion and doubles the lifespan of cars.





Key Topics Covered:



Chapter 1. Market Synopsis



Chapter 2. Executive Summary



Chapter 3. Indicative Metrics



Chapter 4. Epoxy Coating Market Segmentation & Impact Analysis

4.1. Epoxy Coating Market Segmentation Analysis

4.2. Industrial Outlook

4.2.1. Market indicators analysis

4.2.2. Market drivers' analysis

4.2.2.1. Rising demand from the paints and coating industry

4.2.2.2. High demand from the transportation industry

4.2.3. Market restraints analysis

4.2.3.1. High commodity pricing



Chapter 5. Epoxy Coating Market By Product Insights & Trends



Chapter 6. Epoxy Coating Market By Application Insights & Trends



Chapter 7. Epoxy Coating Market Regional Outlook



Chapter 8. Competitive Landscape



Chapter 9. Company Profiles



Companies Mentioned

Akzo Nobel N.V.

Basf SE

Nipsea Group

Asian Paints

PPG Industries Inc.

Axalta Coating System

RPM International Inc.

Kansai Paint Co. Ltd.

Thermal-Chem Corporation

Toa-Chugoku Co. Ltd.

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/1tp0ql

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Cision

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/epoxy-coating-global-market-report-2022-increasing-demand-from-the-transportation-industry-fuels-sector-301799129.html

SOURCE Research and Markets
Supreme Court seems sympathetic to postal worker who didn't work Sundays in dispute over religious accommodations
FILE PHOTO: A sign of Ant Group is seen during the World Internet Conference in Wuzhen

By Julie Zhu and Jane Xu

HONG KONG (Reuters) - Chinese regulators are expected to fine Ant Group about a quarter less than the more than $1 billion initially planned and downgrade their charges against it, sources said, as they seek to end a years-long crackdown on marquee technology firms.

The fine being considered now is about 5 billion yuan ($728 million), three people with knowledge of the matter said on condition of anonymity as the details are not yet public.

Chinese authorities, notably the People's Bank of China (PBOC) which has been driving a revamp at Ant after its $37 billion IPO was scuttled in 2020, are expected to announce the fine in the coming months, two of the people said.

The PBOC and Ant, founded by billionaire Jack Ma, did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

The fine would help pave the way for the fintech giant to secure a long-awaited financial holding company license, seek growth, and eventually revive its plans for a market debut.

For the broader technology sector, an Ant fine decision will mark a key step towards the end of China's bruising crackdown on private enterprises that started with the scrapping of Ant's IPO and has wiped billions off market values of Chinese companies.

A smaller fine following the recent return to China of Ant's founder Ma, who stayed overseas for more than a year since the IPO fiasco, offers support for Beijing's softening tone toward the private sector.

That would also be in sync with China's efforts to bolster confidence among private entrepreneurs and spur growth in the $17-trillion economy battered by COVID-19, the sources said.

China's economy grew just 3% in 2022, one of its worst showings in decades, but gathered pace early this year.

A lower fine could also help reduce any negative impact on Ant and the fintech sector given the scale of Ant's business and its significance to the industry, the people added.

The amount of the fine is, however, still subject to changes, they cautioned.

Story continues

Regulators have since at least January been considering reducing the fine and have been in informal communication with Ant about it, one of the people said.

SOFTER WORDING ON CHARGES

Apart from lowering the fine, authorities are also looking to soften the wording of their charges against Ant, two of the people said, in a move that is likely to further quell concerns of China's private sector.

Authorities now plan to cite financial risks and operating certain business without proper licenses as the triggers for the fine, the people added.

Earlier, the fine was likely to be focussed on alleged violations related to "disorderly expansion of capital" and the corresponding financial risks its once freewheeling businesses caused, a source told Reuters in November.

Ant has been undergoing a sweeping business overhaul since April 2021, which includes turning itself into a financial holding firm, subject to rules and capital requirements similar to those for banks.

Just a day after Ma's return to China in March, Alibaba said it was planning to split into six units and explore fundraisings or listings for most of them, a move seen by investors as a signal Beijing's regulatory crackdown on corporates was ending.

Ant, which operates super-app Alipay, has businesses spanning payment processing, consumer lending and insurance products distribution.

Ma, a former English teacher, previously owned more than 50% of voting rights at Ant, but in January the fintech giant said he would give up control of the company as part of the revamp.

($1 = 6.8719 Chinese yuan)

(Reporting by Julie Zhu and Jane Xu; Additional reporting by Kane Wu; Editing by Sumeet Chatterjee and Himani Sarkar)
The April 5 arrest of Peter Murrell, the Scottish National Partys former CEO and husband to former leader Nicola Sturgeon, accompanied by police raids on Murrell and Sturgeons house and SNP offices to cart away boxes of material, points to a party in meltdown.

Murrell was released without charge later that day. He was arrested as part of Operation Branchform, the police investigation launched after complaints from supporters of Scottish independence over the fate of 666,953 raised between 2017 and 2020 and handed to the SNP for the purpose of mounting a second referendum.

Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon poses for the media with husband Peter Murrell, outside polling station in Glasgow, Scotland, on December 12, 2019. The husband of former Scottish National Party leader Nicola Sturgeon was been arrested in a party finance probe on April 5, 2023. [AP Photo/Scott Heppell, File]

Murrells arrest comes just weeks after Sturgeon unexpectedly resigned as party leader. Her departure was attributed to opposition within the SNP to her strategy for making next Westminster election a de facto second independence referendum, and to misgivings over a Gender Recognition Reform Act passed by the Scottish parliament but stalled by the UK government.

It now appears likely that the timing of Sturgeons decision had something to do with Murrells imminent arrest. Murrell resigned as SNP CEO after he was exposed during the campaign to replace Sturgeon for having misled the party over falling membership figures. The party has lost around 30,000 members in two years.

Revelations have emerged of the SNP leaderships efforts to obscure its dire financial state. The Sunday Mail reported April 9 that as early as August 2021 Sturgeon sought to avoid questions from the partys national executive over the crowdfunded cash for a second independence campaign. A source told the tabloid, She told the meeting that there was nothing wrong with the accounts and that people should stop talking about it because it was undermining the party.

The meeting came three months after the SNPs treasurer Douglas Chapman resigned claiming he was unable to properly scrutinise party accounts and two months after Murrell loaned the party 107,000.

Media attention was given to the seizure by police of a high end Niesmann+Bischoff camper van, worth around 110,000, from outside the home of Murrells mother. The vehicle, delivered in 2021 and never used, was later said to have been intended for use as a battle bus during the 2021 Scottish elections.

The BBC reported that the company tasked with auditing the SNPs accounts had also resigned. According to the UK Electoral Commission, political parties with income and expenditure exceeding 250,000 are required to have their annual accounts independently audited and reported. Accountants Johnston Carmichaels resignation was reported in the Herald to be coincidental with the party failing to inform the Electoral Commission of Murrells 107,000 loan.

The SNP faces further loss of revenue if no auditor can be found willing to sign off on its 4 million accounts by May 31. It could also have external auditors imposed by the Electoral Commission. The SNPs Westminster Group of MPs receives 1.15 million in subsidies from parliament to pay staff wages, research and travel.

Some SNP MSPs threatened to withhold their 250 a month subscription dues if Murrell was assisted with his legal fees. The Sunday Post reported that an expert in allegations of financial crime had been hired. On April 11, new party leader Humza Yousaf was reported in the Scotsman stating that Murrell, CEO for 25 years, had been cast adrift.

Following an NEC meeting last weekend, Yousaf denied the party was close to bankruptcy but confirmed the need for financial oversight. On April 16, the Sunday Mail reported police attention being directed to Sturgeon for her refusal to appoint a fundraising manager to oversee incoming donations. The same day, it circulated a video of a March 2021 NEC meeting at which Sturgeon warned against public discussion of financial problems after Edinburghs former Lord Provost Frank Ross, Allison Graham, and Cynthia Guthrie resigned from the SNPs finance and audit committee. Speculation is growing that she may even resign as an MSP.

SNP president, acting CEO and former minister Mike Russell complained, In my 50-year association with the party this is the biggest and most challenging crisis weve ever faced, certainly while weve been in government.

Among the pseudo-left tendencies that have orbited the SNP for years, there is overt panic as all of them try to rescue the perspective of Scottish separatism from the unravelling of the SNP.

Writing before Murrells arrest, Scottish Socialist Party co-leader Colin Fox complained, Many SNP members I talk to privately fear their party is about to embark on the same path Labour in Scotland has followed since devolution, electing a series of short-lived leaders who fail to halt the decline.

Fox called for an independence convention to bring all the separatist parties together to mobilise majority support via both parliamentary and extra-parliamentary means.

Phil Stott of the Socialist Party Scotland presented the SNPs debacle as arising from a UK state attack on the supposedly left perspective of independence. The SNP is certainly not a left party, let alone a workers party. However, its support for the break-up of the UK has put it on collision course with the overwhelming majority of the ruling capitalist class who have welcomed the current SNP debacle.

Despite our trenchant and consistent opposition to the SNP leaderships anti-working class policies and bureaucratic methods, we oppose the capitalist state intervening in this way.

No doubt there is immense schadenfreude in Tory, Labour and UK state circles over the SNPs travails. But if the SNP has indeed been undone by a police operation, it is one set in motion by Scottish nationalists!

The SNP crisis takes the form of a faction fight between rival, well-connected wings of the Scottish bourgeoisie and upper middle class, none with any qualms about using the state apparatus against their opponents. It is only three years since former SNP leader and First Minister Alex Salmond was acquitted of #MeToo-inspired sex charges instigated by Sturgeons close advisers, aided by powerful figures in the Scottish civil service and legal apparatus.

Today, writing in the Scotsman, former Justice Minister Kenny MacAskill, deputy leader of Salmonds Alba Party and still a Westminster MP, crowed of Sturgeons fate, Many knew and only the timing was unknown. Irrespective of what happens with Peter Murrell, her reputation will not survive and rightly so.

The attempt by the pseudo-left groups to portray the SNPs crisis as a product of its insufficient commitment to national separatism is a grotesque political distortion. The SNPs funding crisis is rooted in a membership decline flowing from the fact that in national and local government, it has imposed brutal cuts on every area of social spending, while also supporting NATOs war with Russia.

The eruption of a wave of class struggle in Scotland and throughout the UK has fundamentally undermined the attempt by the SNP and its apologists to advance separatism as a left alternative to the austerity and war agenda of the Tories and Labour in Westminster. The SNP has been exposed as just another pro-business party and the prospect of an independent Scotland as a reformist paradise for workers revealed as a chimera.

Contrary to the nationalist and pseudo-left claims, in the 21st century there is no basis for a tiny Scottish state to offer anything other than social misery, intense exploitation, and authoritarianism, achieved by means of the division and weakening of the working class.

The crisis of the SNP is an initial expression of the fact that class questions are again coming to the fore and in the process revealing the real social forces and interests represented by parties and their programs. Workers in Scotland, England and Wales have common interests which can only be advanced by rejecting all forms of nationalism and uniting with workers internationally in the struggle for socialism.
First shift at GM Flint Assembly plant [Photo: WSWS]

Are you an autoworker? We want to hear from you about any safety issues in your plant: fill out the form at the end of the article. We will protect your anonymity.

The GM Flint Truck Assembly Rank-and-File Committee was informed Monday night that a young temporary part-time worker barely escaped serious injury or even death when a huge power-bolting machine fell from the ceiling and almost crushed him. Outraged workers told the committee that the machine, known as a prop shaft secure gun, had broken from its connection to an overhead beam before and that, despite their complaints, nothing had been done by management or UAW officials to make sure it was properly secured.

The incident occurred on the Chassis line around 5 p.m., two hours after the second shift began. The operator was using the power gun to fasten multiple bolts on GM pickups when the entire mechanism came crashing down onto the chassis assembly he was working on, missing him by only a few inches. The prop shaft secure gun weighs several hundred pounds and all five bolts connecting it to the ceiling reportedly snapped.

Co-workers who witnessed the near-disaster immediately came to the young workers aid. At the same time, word of what happened quickly spread throughout several departments in the plant. Shortly afterwards, management paused the assembly line for a 30-35 minute tornado drill, which many workers suspected could have been called to prevent a walkout over the unsafe conditions.

According to witnesses, management and UAW officials were more concerned about getting production restarted than the safety of the worker who almost lost his life. The worker was subsequently given a handheld tool to attach bolts one at a time and the line resumed at the same pace. But workers gathered around the young worker, insisting that he not be used as a guinea pig once the prop shaft gun was repaired and reinstalled.

As the standoff continued, several workers gave statements to the committee making it clear that both the company and the UAW were knowingly endangering workers by failing to maintain the machinery.

Im not surprised it happened, one worker said. They stopped doing preventative maintenance in 2016. They would shut down for two weeks in the summer every year. Now, they only come out to fix stuff when something happens. Youd think the union would care about this and have people come out but they dont. The committeeman on the line just stood up and clapped his hands happily and yelled good job like it was a joke.

Ive seen the same gun break before, another worker added. Not as bad as this but its happened multiple times. The Ubolt and shock job guns have all broken several times. They dont come out and fix them properly. They dont care about us at all or our safety.

Its insane that happened! The gun is huge and bigger than me. Id be scared to use it if that happened to me. Management doesnt care if we get hurt.

Another worker told the committee, Youd think with all the injuries, theyd do something. The guns break all the time like when one worker got hit in the head. Its dangerous and Im scared of it happening to me. If one of them fell on me, I could die or get mutilated.

Another worker said, We didnt know about the accident until we walked by it when the sirens went off for a tornado drill. I saw the gun was completely broken apart. That was the aftermath. I figured they called the tornado drill to usher everyone out. It was weird. We were not told about the accident.

This is a very big piece of equipment, a few hundred pounds. Maintenance is supposed to check all this equipment, but this gets overlooked a lot of the time. There are a lot of old fixtures in the plantat least 10 years old, but they dont take them out of service. I think there was another incident on Chassis 1 recently before this one. The union never does anything, leaving workers to be vigilant ourselves. Im interested in finding out about the rank and file committee.

Earlier this year, a temporary part-time worker was injured when she was struck in the head by a UBolt machine on the same chassis line. Workers who witnessed the injury said the worker was bleeding from a gash in her forehead. She was given a butterfly band-aid in the medical office and was sent right back to the assembly line.

During the lunch break Monday evening the prop shaft secure gun was repaired and remounted. After claiming that additional bolts and cables would be installed in the coming days to strengthen the connection to the overhead beam, management ordered the temporary worker to resume work. Local UAW officials signed off on this despite the continued dangers.

The deadly conditions in Flint and at other plants are the result of decades of collusion between the UAW bureaucracy and GM. The UAW has gone along with mass layoffs and the destruction of work rules, which make such accidents inevitable. The number of skilled trades jobs and classifications has been slashed, making it virtually impossible to keep up with maintenance and repair.

At the same time, workers grievances are routinely ignored by the joint UAW-GM safety committees, which are most concerned with preventing any disruption to the companys production and profit. While GM made $10 billion in profits last year and found plenty of money to enrich its executives and wealthy shareholders, the company is engaged in a $2 billion cost-cutting drive that will only make the conditions in the plants more dangerous.

The GM Flint Truck Assembly Rank-and-File Committee encourages workers at the plant to maintain their vigilance and oppose the continued sacrifice of workers lives and limbs for corporate profit.

We call on workers to demand:

A full investigation into Mondays near-fatal accident. Because no confidence can be placed in management or the UAW bureaucracy, this investigation must be led by trusted workers, nominated and elected by the rank and file.

This committee must have full access to managements maintenance and repair records concerning the prop shaft gun and similar machines and a record of all prior warnings and safety grievances concerning these machines.

All incidents involving unsafe conditions, accidents or injuries must be immediately communicated to all workers on the shop floor.

Above, all our committee fights for the abolition of the UAW apparatus and all of its labor-management committees and the transfer of power to workers on the shop floor. To protect workers lives, these rank-and-file committees must fight for workers control over line speed and all health and safety matters.

Are you an autoworker? We want to hear from you about any safety issues in your plant: fill out the form below. We will protect your anonymity.
Universities Australia (UA) chief executive Catriona Jackson has just completed a week-long visit to Washington to further integrate Australian universities into US-led war preparations against China.

Universities Australia CEO Catriona Jackson in Washington with Kevin Rudd, Australian ambassador to the United States. [Photo: @catrionajackso1]

Central to her talks with US national security officials were plans for universities to play a critical role in Australias acquisition and development of nuclear-powered attack submarines, hypersonic missiles, cyber warfare and other weaponry for use in a war with China. All of this is proceeding under AUKUS, the militarist pact between Australia, Britain and the US.

According to UA, a management body representing Australias 39 main universities, Jacksons trip has cemented the role Australias universities will play in delivering AUKUS, and responding to challenges and opportunities alongside global peers.

Jackson met with national security officials from the US Department of State as well as National Science Foundationa US think tank that has as one of its main aims to secure the national defense. She also held discussions with the Business Roundtable, which represents chief executives from major global corporations.

Jacksons meetings covered not only how Australian universities can deepen their role as hubs of militarism. They were also an opportunity to guarantee that the universities will ensure the security of military research through anti-democratic measures such as spying on and censuring academics involved in collaborations with researchers internationally, above all in China.

The context of Jacksons tour was the announcement, on March 14, that Australia, under the Labor government of Anthony Albanese, will seek to acquire nuclear-powered submarines at a cost of $368 billion. This comes on top of over half a trillion dollars already set aside to be spent on Australias military over the coming decade.

AUKUS is central to US war aims against China, which the ruling elite in Washington views as the main threat to American global dominance. While already at war against Russia in Ukraine, the US is bolstering its military capacity and alliances in the Indo-Pacific in preparation for open conflict with China.

Indicating the intimate consultations between UA and US, UK and Australian governments that have led to Jacksons visit to Washington, she said in a UA press release: Weve already had close discussions with our government and AUKUS partner governments about how universities can help. Were in Washington this week to turn those ideas into reality.

The statement noted that Jackson would hold meetings with higher education bureaucratic bodies from the US, UK, Canada, Germany and New Zealandall imperialist centres that play a key role in US-led war aims around the world.

Late last year, UA presented a submission to the Labor governments Defence Strategic Review, calling for a vast expansion of government programs to funnel students, including international students from allied countries, into the military.

Jackson said this proposal would be discussed in Washington. Universities have previously called for defence internships to boost the flow of skilled workers needed for projects like AUKUS and were looking forward to exploring this option further, she stated.

Australian universities have been integrated into the war drive in recent years. Their role as centres for the ideological promotion of pro-war propaganda through various think tanks, and as centres for research and development partnerships with the worlds biggest arms manufacturers has deepened.

A Defence Science Partnership founded in 2014 by the Australian Defence Departments Defence Science and Technology Group has since been signed by all Australias public universities. The program aims to provide a uniform model for universities to engage with Defence on research projects.

In recent years, universities have signed multi-million-dollar research and development deals with the worlds largest arms manufacturers at a rapid rate. These include Lockheed Martin (US) and BAE Systems (UK). Australian research institutions are being used to provide military research in quantum technologies, hypersonics, autonomous vehicles, cyber warfare, robotics, artificial intelligence and space warfare.

The universities are also hubs for pro-US and anti-China war propaganda. Many now host pro-imperialist think tanks, such as the University of Sydneys US Studies Centre, formed in 2006 to counteract anti-war sentiment in the wake of the US-led invasion of Iraq, and formulate the strategic conceptions underlying Australian involvement in US-led military interventions.

Jacksons visit to Washington aimed to further develop ties with US and UK agencies and institutions, in particular, to overcome a recruitment crisis and skills shortage in the Australian military.

In an interview on Sky News, Jackson said that the 20,000-strong workforce, including skilled workers, required for the AUKUS pact will necessitate the bolstering of Australias pool of university graduates trained in defence technologies. This will place universities at the centre of the war economy proposed by Albanese upon signing the $368 billion AUKUS submarine deal.

Under Albaneses chilling vision, all aspects of society, including a wide array of workplaces, are to be tied to the needs of the military. In the case of the universities, this means an ever-greater focus of research and academic activity to meet the requirements of the defence force and the military contractors with which they collaborate.

Jackson referred to the University Foreign Interference Taskforce (UFIT) which was set up in 2019 to identify and analyse emerging threats in Australias universities and ensure research integrity and cyber security.

This anti-democratic measure was installed with bipartisan support as part of sweeping wartime-like measures to combat supposed foreign interference. In the name of national security, universities and researchers are under constant surveillance by the state to determine whether their international collaborations are a threat. The main target of the UFIT is any research with Chinese academics and research institutions.

As the war fever against China reaches new levels under the US administration of President Joseph Biden, Australias UFIT is being presented by Jackson and UA as a model to develop similar anti-Chinese programs in the US, UK, Germany and elsewhere.

Collaborations with defence contractors, think tanks and military-intelligence agencies aligned with Washingtons war aims are not only acceptedthey are positively promoted and nurtured. This exposes the utter fraud of the foreign interference campaign of which universities, and UA in particular, have been at the forefront.

The real target of the anti-democratic measures are workers and young people, who are hostile to militarism and war. There is widespread anti-war sentiment, but to go forward, it requires a socialist perspective based on the fight for the unity of workers internationally in a struggle against the source of war, the capitalist system.

Such a perspective will be elaborated at the World Socialist Web Site global online rally to celebrate May Day 2023. It will be livestreamed at 5 a.m. (AEST) Monday, 1 May. Register here.
In February, the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) voted by 18 to 3 to replace its current Grade 11 English course with a mandatory one devoted to Understanding Contemporary First Nations, Metis and Inuit Voices. The previous course introduced students to Shakespeare, Charles Dickens, J.D. Salinger and F. Scott Fitzgerald, among others.

The proponents of the new course, including Indigenous student trustee Isaiah Shafqat, proclaimed it a historic change and a win for the Indigenous community. Other supporters described it as transformative.

These are bold claims. But are they sustained by the facts? Wide layers of the Canadian population, familiar with the history of the brutal treatment of the Indigenous peoples, will no doubt feel an instinctive sympathy. And, indeed, the study of Indigenous culture and history is both entirely legitimate and necessary.

Toronto District School Board Education Centre [Photo by PFHLai / CC BY 4.0

However, anyone who pays attention to the ways of governments and ruling elites, as well as to the operations of the middle-class identity politics practitioners, ought to proceed cautiously and subject the situation to serious analysis. Who will truly benefit from these changes? Will the Indigenous population? Will the Grade 11 students? What are the real motives of the Canadian political establishment at all levels behind its publicly stated motives?

No substantive explanation was given for the decision to replace a required course in English literature that included texts such as Macbeth and Catcher in the Rye with a course on Indigenous culture. Somewhat defensively, TDSB chair Rachel Chernos Lin could not ignore the obvious implications of the substitution, asserting that Its not meant to replace, it's meant to enrich. One is obliged to ask: why then replace? The next step is for the TDSB to prepare a report to be delivered in June outlining details and timeline for implementation.

Other local school boards have introduced Indigenous courses in recent years with little fanfareneighboring York and Durham school boards have made a similar course a compulsory high school credit, as have the Greater Essex County, Lakehead, Simcoe County and Upper Canada school boards. The course is already taught as an elective in 29 of 110 schools within the TDSB, but the move to make it compulsory while replacing standard English is unprecedented.

To a considerable extent, the school board action in February was a decision reached by a small number of people imposed on the broader population. The form of the process expresses something about its content. If this were a genuinely democratic-popular development, it would not be carried out largely behind the backs of the citys residents.

While it is appropriate that Indigenous history and culture be offered in school curricula, directly counterposing Indigenous to English literary studies runs counter to the interests of the Indigenous people and to their cultural enrichment, along with that of the working class in general.

The argument, stated openly or muttered under ones breath, that Shakespeare and Dickens are dead white men and their work is unrelated to the lives of contemporary students, along the lines of the deplorable Disrupt Texts campaign in the US, needs to be addressed head-on and rejected as reactionary and ignorant.

Shafqat, the Indigenous student trustee who advocates for awareness of intersectionalities between Indigenous and Queer communities, observed that Toronto being the largest school board in Canada and having this course mandatory, people will have to listen and they'll have to learn. He told Toronto Life that Ive had some friends say that Shakespeare is irrelevant. Student trustee Naomi Musa criticized the previous Grade 11 English course, calling it Eurocentric and not reflective of different intersectionalities. This is backward and misguided.

One can be thoroughly supportive of introducing Indigenous authors and others without for a moment losing sight of the fact that writings long recognized to be major contributions to culture, shedding important light on what it means to be human, are of immense relevance to youth, including Indigenous youth, in the 21st century.

Although of course political and ideological motives are never absent, Shakespeare, Dickens, Fitzgerald and others continue to be read and valued primarily because of their enduring artistic, social and psychological qualities, including their subversive attitude toward conventional wisdom and existing structures.

The proposed displacement of Grade 11 English will not improve the situation for any oppressed minority. Retrograde accommodations of this sort, that dress up what amounts to the degradation of learning standards as in some way a step forward, are being made by education officials confronted with identity ideologues backed by government.

The regular revelations of unmarked graves of Indigenous children torn from their families and interned at Church-run residential schools testify to the decades of horrific treatment of native peoples by the Canadian state and its agents. Public outrage has been met by the ruling class with various strategies to mute or divide its critics. The present-day conditions of the Native peoples continue to be abominable, even as the various government officials proclaim their love and esteem for the countrys First Nations.

But more than mere obscene hypocrisy is at work here. The Liberal government of Justin Trudeau has definite aims, which are not difficult to make out. Its policy on Indigenous culture, a great deal of hot air that costs very little, is part of a broader strategy that purports to address the grievances of identities and minorities of various sorts, but, in fact, merely provides a progressive cover for its class-war agenda.

The Trudeau government and its counterparts at the provincial and local levels would like to divert attention from the responsibility of Canadian capitalism and its state for the deplorable circumstances in which most Indigenous people live, whether on or off-reserve, as well as to cultivate a privileged petty bourgeois layer of the Indigenous population to serve as a buffer against the outrage that exists about the existing conditions.

By appealing to this layer to participate more fully in bourgeois rule, the federal government seeks to win their cooperation in the cynical fraud of native reconciliation based on Nation to Nation equivalence. The official policy of multi-culturalism, which promotes and seeks to entrench a system of discrete communities as defined by ethnicity, race and religion, has been central to the effort to redefine social antagonisms in racial and cultural terms.

The Toronto school board measures have been adopted by officials in ready compliance with recommendations of the federal Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC)a government-appointed bodythat have shaped Liberal government policy on Indigenous affairs in recent years. Like other boards offering this course, the TDSB refers explicitly to the TRC and its recommendations as motivating the change in curriculum.

Support for these changes have come from prominent Indigenous professionals and artists like Tanya Talaga who stand to gain personally and professionally, but takes place at the expense of Indigenous people more broadly. The historic dispossession and decimation of the Indigenous population cannot be understood, let alone properly addressed, separated from the development of Canada as a capitalist society, and the class struggle as a whole. Approaching Indigenous history and culture through a nationalist/identity politics lens gravely distorts the issues and puts a misplaced emphasis on racial and cultural difference that prevents uniting against the common class enemy.

The school board decision fits seamlessly into the agenda advanced by the pseudo-left: Canada was and remains a white, colonial-settler state, still in need of decolonization, a process that can apparently be advanced by incorporating an Indigenous elite into governments, corporate boardrooms, academia, etc.

Implicitly, according to the logic of the school board and its apologists, the general Canadian population in 2023 is being held responsible for the crimes committed by the ruling elite, and must be made to pay. The mandatory course is presented moralistically as a kind of punishment. The fate of the Indigenous people may be one of the sharpest proofs of the ruthlessness of Canadian capitalism. But it would be all to the good if high school students were also taught about the history of government and corporate strike-breaking, political repression and spying carried out by the RCMP, Canadian participation in colonialism, imperialist wars and the activities of the US CIA and military, etc.

The Indigenous reconciliation project had a certain popular appeal. There was legitimate anger, regret, even shame over what was done to the Indigenous population. However, in the absence of an understanding of the connection between that process and the overall development of capitalism, naturally covered up by the government and the media, this genuine outrage has been exploited. Exploited to pursue an agenda aimed at reconciling the Indigenous peoples to Canadian capitalism. Various opportunists and operators within the Indigenous population and their middle class backers, meanwhile, have taken advantage of the situation to promote their own economic and political interests.

As noted, the Liberal government hypocritically portrays itself as a friend of the Indigenous even as it continues to spend hundreds of millions of dollars battling their rights in court. The promotion of Indigenous government is part of a strategy pursued by consecutive governments as a means of managing and delimiting its financial obligations.

Faced with mounting popular anger around historical abuses at government financed residential schools, Prime Minister Stephen Harper was obliged to convene the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, offering his famously insincere apology in 2008. Seeking to contain widespread and growing dissatisfaction within the Indigenous community, which culminated in the Idle no More movement, the Liberal government adopted its policy of nation to nation reconciliation in 2015.

In accepting the Liberals invitation to greater self-government, the leadership that gained ground based on Indigenous identity has extended a certain legitimacy to the ruling elite. In turn, these figures have been rewarded with lucrative careers and opportunities when TRC recommendations on Indigenous education have been implemented.

This strategy has appealed to more narrow material interests at work. In keeping with federal policy, the Ontario Ministry of Education grants extra funding to school boards that offer qualifying courses in Indigenous studies. As a result the TDSB gets an additional $1,200 in funding from the Ministry for each student taking the new course, which, in light of shrinking government expenditures on education, can be seen as a significant factor behind board support.

The TDSB decision on Grade 11 curriculum changes takes place within a context in which powerful ideological and political pressures are at work, along with severe economic constraints and a general policy of austerity pursued by governments at every level.

The decline in education funding has become particularly acute in Ontario in recent years. According to a Statistics Canada report last year, national spending on education fell for the first time in 17 years, with Ontario and Alberta accounting for the bulk of the decrease. Although the growth in school enrolment slowed marginally during the COVID pandemic, funding cuts have taken place alongside an otherwise steady growth in student numbers.

The allocation of academic resources and postings on the basis of racial identity, far from protecting or advancing Indigenous culture, will isolate and further alienate it. This sort of affirmative action, as history has shown, will benefit and enrich a handful of professionals and band leaders while sharpening class differences within their communities.

Academic curriculum determined on the basis of race, gender or ethnicity devalues and displaces a genuine appreciation of art and literary works on their actual merits. A serious and enlightened teaching of cultural achievement would require the broadest exposure to social experience and expression, across generations and across the globe.

The political outlook behind the displacement of English studies in high schools, based on the undifferentiated identification of European and white culture and art with colonialism, has further reactionary implications as demonstrated in the disgraceful examples of persecution of academics and artists in recent years. The takedown and canceling of figures such as Carrie Bourassa, Michelle Latimer and Joseph Boyden, who have been targeted as lacking sufficient Indigenous racial credentials, has been prosecuted by the same nationalist Indigenous elite pushing for divisive changes in school curricula.

Youth and workers should be suspicious of and hostile to every effort to pit one section of the working class and oppressed against another, and every striving for privileges by petty bourgeois layers of one ethnicity or another. Socialists stand instead for the unity of English-speaking, French-speaking, immigrant, Indigenous and every other section of the working class against the entire ruling class.
In a convoluted and self-contradictory speech to Australias National Press Club yesterday, Foreign Minister Penny Wong sought to answer opposition to the Labor governments intensifying involvement in the escalating US war drive against China.

Australian foreign minister, Penny Wong, addresses National Press Club in Canberra, 17 April, 2023. [Photo: YouTube ABC News (Australia)]

While claiming that a binary choice did not have to be made in the deepening geo-strategic conflict between the US and China, Wong nailed the Albanese governments colours firmly to the mast of US imperialism. The United States, she declared, was an indispensable power in the Indo-Pacific and our closest ally and principal strategic partner.

Clearly conscious of mounting public alarm over a catastrophic US-triggered nuclear war with China, she ludicrously depicted the governments $368 billion acquisition of AUKUS nuclear-powered submarinesdesigned to attack Chinaas an anti-war deterrent, provocatively accusing Beijing of aggression throughout the Indo-Pacific.

Wong declared, once again, that Australia had made its defining choice when the Curtin Labor government turned to reliance on the US during World War II. A reality check was needed, she insisted. There had been no greater turning point in Australian history than Curtins wartime turn to America.

Even as she proposed a balanced region, Wong painted US imperialism as an essential source of the Indo-Pacifics supposed long, uninterrupted period of stability and prosperity, and denounced any who take self-satisfied potshots at Americas imperfections.

Those unspecified imperfections presumably covered everything from the US invasion and half-century occupation of the Philippines from 1898, to the bloody US-backed military coup in Indonesia in 1965 and the murderous Vietnam War. That is not to speak of todays US military encirclement of, and economic sanctions against, Beijing or the Biden administrations effective junking of the 50-year-old One China policy in order to provoke a confrontation over Taiwan.

After painting US imperialism, which has dominated the region since World War II, in the brightest possible colours, Wong regurgitated a litany of allegations against China. Without providing any evidence, she said they included coercive trade measures, unsustainable lending, political interference, disinformation and reshaping international rules, standards and norms that have benefited smaller countries.

Ignoring the massive and spiralling military spending of the US, as well as its allies in Europe and Japan, Wong depicted China as a threat to the entire world. She accused China of militarising at a pace and scale not seen in the world for nearly a century.

Wong and the government are obviously aware that the Biden administration is trying to goad China into a military conflict, as the US has done with Russia in Ukraine. She insisted on being steadfast in not speaking about the looming regional flashpoints, whether the Himalayas, Taiwan, the Korean Peninsula or anywhere else. She urged the media to likewise play down the likelihood of clashes, in effect to help keep the public in the dark.

While Wong claimed that the governments foreign policy seeks to lower the heat on any potential conflict, the content of her speech demonstrated otherwise.

In fact, Wongs remarks underscore the particular ideological and political services that the Labor government is seeking to provide to US imperialism and its junior partner, Australian imperialism. That includes combatting both the domestic and regional anti-war anxieties that have been fuelled by the AUKUS pact and the equally aggressive anti-China Quad alliance between the US, Japan, India and Australia.

The foreign minister opened her address by trying to drum up a new version of Australian nationalist identity. It is one that cynically links the governments pro-US foreign and security policy to the greater integration of elite indigenous leaders into the ruling class via the proposed referendum to entrench an advisory body, called the Voice, into the Australia constitution.

Elevating First Nations perspectives will strengthen our connections across the world and in our region, especially across the Blue Pacific, Wong stated. She described the elevation of indigenous figures as a powerful natural asset for building alignment across the southwest Pacific, which the Australian capitalist class has long regarded as its sphere of influence and neo-colonial dominance.

Wong positively bragged about the frenetic non-stop ongoing barrage of visits she has made throughout the region, ever since taking office last May. She has essentially acted as a bully, battering down opposition to AUKUS and often insisting that governments break off any security and economic arrangements with China and align more closely with the US and Australia.

In the eleven months since my appointment, I have visited 30 countries, five of them more than once, she emphasised. This week I will visit New Caledonia and Tuvalu, meaning I will have travelled to all Pacific Island Forum members as foreign minister. Later, she added: By the first anniversary of our Government, I will have visited every country in Southeast Asia as foreign minister, except Myanmar.

Arrogantly, Wong depicted the impoverished small states of the Pacific, formerly British or Australian colonies, as part of our family. She portrayed her visits as liberating missions to free the region from alleged Chinese domineering. She went to assist countries that dont want to live in a closed, hierarchical region where the rules are dictated by a single major power to suit its own interests.

Wong made the reality plainer by boasting of the security or status of forces basing agreements the government had prosecuted with Vanuatu, Fiji and Papua New Guinea. While claiming to be a messenger of peace, not war, she spoke aggressively of shaping the region in the interests of Australian imperialism. We need to harness all elements of our national power to advance our interests, she said.

Wong was clearly conscious of the opposition among workers and youth to the huge cost of the AUKUS buildup, which will inevitably mean slashing social spending. She said: Some are concerned the price is too high. She sought to counter that widespread sentiment by again accusing China of a rapid military build-up that had to be answered, and by invoking an image of great job creation in weapons industries, echoing Prime Minister Albaneses chilling vision of a wartime economy.

In part, Wongs speech was a response to ex-Prime Minister Paul Keating, who has criticised the AUKUS submarine deal and Wongs performance as foreign minister, primarily from the standpoint of protecting the profit interests of Australian capitalism, for which China remains by far the largest export market, notably for iron ore.

Without naming Keating, Wong directed a jibe at him and other establishment figures who have voiced nervousness about the prospect of a US war against China, in which Australia would be on the frontline because of its integration into the US military and its hosting of critical US bases, as well as its huge iron ore exports to China. Now some imply we should attach ourselves to what they anticipate will be a hegemonic China, Wong asserted.

Keating hit back immediately via an article in which he scathingly denounced her speech as one of platitudes. He wrote:In facing the great challenge of our time, a super-state resident in continental Asia and an itinerant naval power seeking to maintain primacythe foreign minister was unable to nominate a single piece of strategic statecraft by Australia that would attempt a solution for both powers.

Ominously, Keating warned of another world war. As a middle power, Australia is now straddling a strategic divide, a divide rapidly becoming every bit as rigid as that which obtained in Europe in 1914. But Keating himself has a long record of backing US imperialist violence, such as the 1965 Indonesian coup, when it is in the interests of Australian capitalism. His call to encourage both the United States and China to find common cause is no more realistic than Wongs posturing as a proponent of balance.

At the press club, Wong refused to answer a question from a journalist who said a Pacific diplomat had stated that Australian foreign policy was basically an attempt to try and draw the veil over the reality, which is that we are completely locked in with America. But her speech displayed exactly that, and this is a warning of the ruthlessness with which the Australian ruling class and its political servants pursue their predatory interests, and their readiness to plunge the population into a disastrous war to do so.
(Reuters) - Public broadcasters ranging from U.S.-based National Public Radio to Canadian Broadcasting Corp have stopped posting on Twitter in recent days after the Elon Musk-owned social media platform labeled their accounts as "government-funded".

The broadcasters have said the label does not accurately capture their governance structure as there is a clear difference between those that receive public funding but are editorially independent, and those that are run by governments.

Musk, meanwhile, has said Twitter's goal is to be as "truthful and accurate as possible".

Here is a list of the broadcasters and other media outlets that have stopped using Twitter:

** National Public Radio (NPR)

NPR said last week it would no longer post fresh content to its 52 official Twitter feeds in protest against a label by the social media platform that implies government involvement in its editorial content.

** Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC)

CBC said on Monday it would pause its use of Twitter after the platform labeled it as "69% government-funded media".

The Twitter label on the CBC account previously showed "70% government-funded media", but was changed to the current one after the CBC asked Twitter to re-examine the designation.

** Public Broadcasting Service (PBS)

PBS, which has around 2.2 million followers on Twitter, halted publishing on Twitter after it was labeled as "government-funded media", according to media reports.

** Hawaii Public Radio

Hawaii Public Radio, a member station of NPR, said it would stop sharing its content on Twitter after the micro-blogging site labeled NPR's Twitter handle as "government-funded media".

NPR's member stations pay the broadcaster a membership fee to use its programming and content.

** LAist

LAist, a Los Angeles-based news outlet, said it would no longer post on its Twitter accounts in support of NPR.

(Reporting by Tiyashi Datta, Chavi Mehta and Jaspreet Singh in Bengaluru; Editing by Shilpi Majumdar)
The World Socialist Web Site invites workers and other readers to contribute to this regular feature.

Latin America

Protest in Argentina demands policies to end hunger and poverty

Members of Argentine unions and social organizations mobilized April 12 in Buenos Aires to protest the governments economic policies, which have increased suffering for the nations working class. The action was called by the Argentine Autonomous Workers Central (CTAA).

Participating organizations included the Classist and Combative Current, the Movement of Excluded Workers, the Dario Santillan Popular Front, the Evita Movement, Barrios de Pie and the Union of Workers of the Popular Economy.

The demonstrators marched to the National Economy Ministry, where speakers excoriated the dealwhich CTAA head Hugo Cachorro Godoy called a scammade between the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the previous government of Mauricio Macri. The austerity measures demanded by the IMF have continued under the presidency of Kirchnerist Alberto Fernandez, who assumed office in 2019, and whose disapproval ratings have swung between 60 and 80 percent.

The demands of the protest, which was replicated in various cities in Buenos Aires province, included rejection of IMF conditions, an emergency wage increase in both the formal and informal sectors, adjustment of pensions, and more spending on health and education.

Snack food company workers block Pan-American Highway to protest layoffs

At 6:00 a.m. on April 14, a group of workers for snack food company Mondelez in General Pacheco, a city northwest of Buenos Aires, blocked a section of the Pan-American Highway. The protesting workers called for an end to Mondelezs system of labor flexibility, a euphemism for the use of temporary contracts to undercut workers wages, conditions and rights and facilitate firings and layoffs.

A statement by the workers pointed out that over 1,800 workers have been laid off since the adoption of the flexibility policy. The protesting workers called for the Labor Ministry to intervene, a request that they have repeatedly made without a response.

They also lambasted their union for betraying them. One of the protesters told news channel C5N, We are part of the commission that had to be formed because the union does not listen, they signed an act against us. Today we are suffering from increased production rates. We cant take it anymore. This situation comes from the pandemic.

Traffic to and from the Buenos Aires Metropolitan Area was delayed and drivers sought alternative routes to get to their destinations. Members of the National Gendarmerie were deployed to the protest, though no instances of violent confrontation were reported. After about two hours, the workers decided to end the protest, but said that they could hold another one this week.

Bolivian teachers striking and protesting against education cuts and curriculum changes clash with police

After breaking off talks with the government April 12, the Bolivian Confederation of Urban Education Workers (CTEUB) issued a call for a strike and protest in La Paz for the next day. When the protesters arrived at Plaza Murillo Square, the location of central government buildings, police used tear gas to remove the protesters. Teachers reported at least 100 injuries by tear gas, beatings and rubber bullets.

The CTEUB has called for mobilizations in the last six weeks, but they have not achieved their main demands: a 30 percent increase in the education budget, including a salary rise, a reduction of working hours and the rescission of the new curriculum promoted by the government. CTEUB alleges that the curriculum is indoctrinating, especially in the area of gender issues and sexual education.

Antigua & Barbuda: Teachers strike over security, pay, conditions

Teachers in the Antigua and Barbuda Union of Teachers (A&BUT) began a strike April 11 over issues of security, working conditions and teacher pay and upgrades, which the government has failed to rectify. The A&BUT had informed the government of its plan to strike the day before.

Director of Education Claire Browne responded by extending the Easter vacation for another week, until Monday, April 17. She said that in light of this and because children cannot be left unsupervised or under-supervised, particularly at this time of immense challenge with antisocial behavior among young people, the Ministry of Education has decided to extend the Easter Vacation by four days, resorting to the traditional two weeks.

During the week, the A&BUT and government reps held meetings, from which the Ministry of Education claimed that it had resolved some issues like pay, upgrades and improved lighting. An A&BUT statement said that the teachers would return to their classrooms on the 17th, but if all their demands were not met, they would engage in a sit-in.

United States

Los Angeles catering workers strike airline food service provider

Airline catering workers at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) launched an unfair labor practices strike April 10 over lagging wages and the fear that they are losing health care benefits. In a statement released by Local 11, Norma Reyes, who sets up equipment for Flying Food Group (FFG), declared, I cannot live on these poverty wages and feed my family. We have filed complaints alleging FFGs treatment of us violates the law. This company must change how they treat us.

Members of Unite Here Local 11 picket Los Angeles International Airport [Photo: Unite Here Local 11]

The 350 members of UNITE HERE Local 11 have been without a contract since June of 2022. During a six-month contract extension FFG showed no inclination to make concessions. Then on March 15, workers voted by a 99 percent margin to grant strike authorization.

FFG provides catering to over 70 customers in the airline industry, including in-flight meals to airlines such as Singapore Airlines, Air France and Lufthansa. The company earned revenues of $46 million in 2022.

Los Angeles has a Living Wage Ordinance that requires employers to pay a minimum of $18.04 to workers. Currently, the citys Bureau of Contract Administration is investigating FFG for failing to pay a total economic package of $23.81 to hundreds of its workers. Estimates of the wage shortfall is in the tens of thousands of dollars.

Oakland, California hospital workers to strike April 19

Some 1,200 members of the National Union of Healthcare Workers (NUHW) at Benioff Childrens Hospital in Oakland, California, are slated to hit the picket lines April 19. Workers are concerned about staffing levels and have demanded a nine-month advanced notice of any staff or service cuts in the East Bay area.

The NUHW bargaining unit is comprised of technical, clerical, professional and other service workers who had been without a contract since July of 2022. Nurses at the hospital represented by the California Nurses Association have declared they will hold a one-day sympathy strike on behalf of their co-workers.

While hospital management responded with the usual statement pronouncing disappointment about the strike, they added, Were heartened that the union agreed to participate in the federal mediation process and remain hopeful that they will prioritize their patients by calling off the strike.

Morristown, New Jersey parking workers protest automation plans

Workers for the Morristown Parking Authority (MPA) in Morristown, New Jersey picketed April 11, charging the Authoritys director of bad-faith bargaining in the wake of an announcement to introduce automation at three public garages. The MPA was silent about the plans for automation during weeks of bargaining with Local 108 of the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union before announcing the initiative.

Local 108 comprises some 30 workers who tend the citys garages, parking lots, metered spaces and neighborhood permit parking operations. Since MPA executive director Nicole Fox assumed office in 2021 there have been a number of vacancies in the system.

Workers complain about their own salaries that hover slightly above the minimum wage while the MPA purchased a Ford Expedition SUV for Fox and raised her salary by $23,000 to an annual total of $150,000, augmented by a $10,000 bonus.

Workers also bridle about harassment. The MPA pressured one workers doctor for additional details about his health while another employee who took a sick day had MPA managers knocking on his door at 2:56 a.m. to confirm his illness.

Canada

Quebec City dockworkers locked out for 7 months

Longshore workers at the Port of Quebec, one of Canadas five largest ports in terms of cargo tonnage, have been locked out for more than seven months.

The Societe des arrimeurs de Quebec (SAQ)an employer association representing the ports three employers, G3 Canada Limited, QSL and Logisteclocked out the 81 longshore workers last September 15. Since then, the port has continued to operate with the help of scabs, mainly drawn from the three companies management personnel.

The main issues in dispute are work schedules and family-work balance.

Under the pretext of a difficult economic context and a shortage of labour, the SAQ wants to impose 12-hour shifts. Longshore work is already notoriously dangerous and difficult. At the Port of Quebec, workers are only assigned their next shift on the previous day. They can also go several weeks in a row with no weekend off. These conditions make planning family life virtually impossible, a situation that would be made much worse by longer shifts.

The most recent financial results of Logistec, the only one of the three SAQ members listed on the stock exchange and therefore required to make its results public, show that the difficult context and the labour shortage are only pretexts to intensify the exploitation of the longshore workers so as to increase profits.

In 2021, Logistec had the best financial results in its 70-year history, with revenues up 23 percent to C$743.7 million, and pre-tax profits of $120.8 million. On its website, Logistec boasts that its marine services sector posted unprecedented results despite congestion and labor shortages at many of our ports.

The Quebec City longshore workers bargaining representative is the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE). With more than 700,000 members, CUPE is the countrys largest union. Yet it has done nothing to mobilize that social power, beginning with dockworkers at the Port of Montreal. Instead, it has encouraged workers to focus their energies on appealing to the federal Liberal government to adopt an anti-scab law.
Sickening images released in the last week concerning the deaths of two inmates trapped in Americas gulag, the largest prison population in the world, have outraged millions of people in the US and internationally.

Lashawn Thompson, a 35-year-old black man, died in the Fulton County Jail in Atlanta, Georgia on September 12, 2022. Photos released by the family attorney last week show Thompsons body covered with insects and lesions before he died in the jail.

Joshua McLemore, a 29-year-old white man who was previously diagnosed with schizophrenia, starved to death in the Jackson County Jail in southern Indiana in August 2021. In a lawsuit filed last week, a lawyer for the family revealed that for nearly 20 days, McLemore was kept in solitary confinement despite displaying no aggressive behavior.

These two cases, representative of the thousands of cases of abuse, torture and outright murder in US prisons every year, refute the cynical and hypocritical claims proffered by President Joe Biden and the Democratic and Republican parties that capitalist America is a bastion of freedom and human rights. The emaciated corpses of McLemore and Thompson, left to rot in deplorable, inhuman cells, are not aberrations, but the daily reality of the American capitalist gulag.

The initial article about these two cases on the WSWS won a wide audience, with nearly 100,000 readers in less than a week. These readers were responding not only to the exposure of shocking atrocities, but to the stark contrast between the official US posturing about human rights and the reality facing working people.

The courageous and award-winning Australian journalist John Pilger commented on the disturbing photos this past weekend on Twitter: Look, and recoil at, the photos below. They were taken in the barbaric prison system to which the UK and US and Australia conspire to send Julian Assange, an innocent man whose only crime is real journalism.

Similarly, human rights lawyer and environmental activist Steven Donzinger characterized the treatment of Thompson as state-sanctioned torture.

It is entirely possible, and even likely, that had the families of the deceased not been able to retain competent legal counsel these horrors would never have been revealed. In both instances, images detailing the torture both men endured while incarcerated were released as part of lawsuits, either ongoing or in preparation.

Neither man had been convicted of a crime. They were innocent until proven guilty when they died. Despite the fact that both men deteriorated physically and mentally and were denied medical care, no charges have been filed against any jailers, and in the case of McLemore, the district attorney has already ruled out criminal charges.

Thompson was a 35-year-old Florida native who loved Atlanta, according to his brother, Brad McCrae. While sleeping on a park bench on June 12, 2022, Thompson was arrested on a simple misdemeanor battery charge, according to a Georgia Tech police report. The charge stemmed from Thompson allegedly spitting at a cop, who transported him to the Fulton County Jail where he would die three months later.

While Thompson was incarcerated in the mental health wing of the Fulton County Jail, photos released by Michael D. Harper, a lawyer for Thompsons family, showed him abandoned in a disgusting cell full of insects that proceeded to eat him alive. The disturbing photos released by Harper show Thompson covered in sores, insects and lesions. Thompsons cell was filthy with grime and refuse, unfit for a diseased animal, the lawyer said.

Lashawn Thompson's body riddled with sores and lesions inside the Fulton County Jail. [Photo: Michael D. Harper, Esq]

Commenting on the decision to publicly release the disturbing photos, Thompsons brother Brad McCrae invoked the memory of Emmett Till, a 14-year-old black teen from Chicago who was murdered in 1955 for the crime of supposedly talking with a white woman. Its heartbreaking, McCrae said in an interview with the Washington Post. The pictures are really awful, theyre hard to look at.

While the conditions Thompson endured before he died were outrageous and disgusting, they were not unique to Fulton County or exceptional in the US prison system. Inmates are among the most exploited and mistreated populations in American society, subject to everything from being denied medical care to being forced to carry out virtual slave-labor for major corporations while incarcerated.

Just over a year before Thompson was found dead in his cell, Joshua McLemore, a 29-year-old white man who suffered from schizophrenia, died after being starved to death in the Jackson County, Indiana, jail.

Suffering from severe psychosis after consuming methamphetamine, McLemore was in the emergency room when an off-duty police officer witnessed him grab the hair of a nurse, at which point the cop charged him with assault. He was hauled off to the Jackson County Jail and placed in an isolation cell.

While he was in Padded Cell 7 at Jackson County, a windowless cell that did not have a bed, McLemores condition continued to worsen. In the course of 20 days, McLemore was alone in the cell, the fluorescent lights were kept on 24 hours a day, and the door to the bathroom was locked, forcing the ailing man to relieve himself on the same floor on which he slept and ate. An investigation by the state police found that during the more than 400 hours he was locked up in solitary confinement, McLemore rarely ate or drank, losing nearly 45 pounds.

Joshua McLemore starving to death inside the Jackson County Jail. [Photo: Jackson County Sheriff's Office]

Despite having been previously diagnosed with schizophrenia, and arrested at a hospital, McLemore was never given a basic medical intake exam by the jail staff, who never even photographed or fingerprinted him. But an investigation last year by Jackson County Prosecutor Jeffery Chalfant found that no crimes were committed by employees of the Jackson County Jail related to the death of Joshua A McLemore.

The lawsuits and photos in these cases have further exposed the sprawling US prison system, with over two million current inmates, for what it really is: a barbarous, inhumane and cruel system that tortures and kills working class, mentally unwell and poor people unfortunate enough to end up trapped within its confines.

How can a government that covers up and condones the brutal torture of its most vulnerable and unwell citizens claim to be fighting for freedom in Ukraine or anywhere else in the world? The fact is, as millions of people throughout the Middle East, Africa and Asia know, US government intervention is not a harbinger of peace and human rights, but terror, exploitation and death.

The images released in the last week, reminiscent of the Abu Ghraib torture photos, are an embarrassment for the US ruling class. As was the case then, President Joe Biden and the rest of the Democratic Party are silent on the deaths of these inmates because it exposes their social justice rhetoric as a fraudulent defense of the capitalist state.

The silence of the Democratic Party demonstrates that 20 years after the Iraq war, the abuse and torture that became official policy under the Bush administration overseas have been brought to the homeland by both big business parties, to be used against the American working class and class-conscious opponents of US imperialism.

Unfortunately for the financial oligarchy, history is not on its side. There is not a prison big enough in the world to contain the colossal growth of the class struggle, which provides the objective foundation for the global socialist movement that will put an end to mass incarceration and the capitalist police state.
NATO forces land in Estonia during BALTOPS 2019 (NATO via Flickr)

NATO plans to surge troops to Russias border as part of an effort to become a war-fighting alliance, the New York Times reported Monday.

The Times wrote that NATO now has deployed a battalion of multinational troops to eight countries along the eastern border with Russia. It is detailing how to enlarge those forces to brigade strength in those frontline states.

A battalion can include up to 1,000 troops, while a brigade can include up to 5,000 troops, meaning that NATO could potentially plan to increase the number of troops on Russias borders fivefold, to up to 40,000 troops.

The Times reports that NATO is also tasking thousands more forces, in case of war, to move quickly in support, with newly detailed plans for mobility and logistics and stiffer requirements for readiness.

Politico, meanwhile, has cited even larger numbers. On March 18, it reported, In the coming months, the alliance will accelerate efforts to stockpile equipment along the alliances eastern edge and designate tens of thousands of forces that can rush to allies aid on short notice The numbers will be large, with officials floating the idea of up to 300,000 NATO forces.

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization, wrote the Times, has launched a full-throttled effort to prepare for military operations all along its eastern flank.

As the Times put it, this means a revolution in practical terms: more troops based permanently along the Russian border, It also means more integration of American and allied war plans, more military spending and more detailed requirements for allies to have specific kinds of forces and equipment to fight, if necessary, in pre-assigned places.

The alliance has shed remaining inhibitions about increased numbers of Western troops all along NATOs border with Russia, the Times stated. The aim is to make NATOs forces not only more robust and more capable but also more visible to Russia.

Additional troops will be placed under the direct authority of Gen. Christopher G. Cavoli, NATOs Supreme Allied Commander Europe, who also commands American forces in Europe, as part of the NATO alliances decision.

The Times reports that General Cavoli is integrating American and allied war-fighting plans for the first time since the Cold War. Citing a NATO official, the newspaper wrote, Americans are back at the heart of Europes defense  deciding with NATO precisely how America will defend Europe.

This will entail a massive military buildup, involving enormous increases in military spending. Now the demands will be tougher and more rigorous to bring the alliance back to a war-fighting capacity in Europe and make deterrence credibleto ensure that NATO can fight a high-intensity war against a rival, Russia, from the first day of conflict, the Times wrote.

Instead of meeting the previous goal of 2 percent of gross domestic product devoted to the military, NATO members will be expected to spend between 2.5 and 3 percent, the Times reported.

In perhaps the most ominous passage in the article, the Times wrote, Previously, the annual exercises of NATOs nuclear forces, known as Steadfast Noon, were kept quiet. But last year, after Russias invasion, the exercise went ahead openly. It was important, a NATO official said, to show Moscow that the alliance wasnt deterred by nuclear threats.

NATOs headquarters is likewise being transformed into a major strategic and war-fighting command, charged with drawing up the alliances plans to integrate and deploy allied troops.

The accession of Finland to NATO, which doubled the length of NATOs land border with Russia, will be a key component of these plans, with Russias entire border with NATO becoming a militarized zone.

Just weeks after its accession to NATO, Finland has begun building a fence on the Russian border, with the initial section to be completed in June.

In June of last year, NATO published a strategy document declaring that the alliance must prepare for high-intensity, multi-domain warfighting against nuclear-armed peer-competitors. The document declared that the Euro-Atlantic area is not at peaceall but declaring that the alliance is at war.

In January, Rob Bauer, NATOs top military spokesperson, declared that the US-led NATO alliance is prepared for a direct clash with Russia. Asked by Portugals RTP News, You dont believe that its only about Ukraine? Bauer replied, No, its about turning back to the old Soviet Union.

The interviewer continued, So the entire Eastern Flank is at risk somehow? Bauer replied, Yeah. The interviewer asked, We are ready to [sic] a direct confrontation with Russia? To this Bauer replied, We are.

In this supercharged environment, NATO will begin Defender 23, the alliances annual war game, on April 22.

The exercise will involve 9,000 US troops and 17,000 soldiers from other NATO members. The nearly two-month-long exercise is focused on the strategic deployment of U.S.-based forces, employment of Army pre-positioned stocks and interoperability with European allies and partners, a Pentagon spokesperson said April 5.

A key goal of the exercise will be to increase lethality of the NATO Alliance through long-distance fires according to U.S. Armys Europe and Africa commands.

This will be followed by Air Defender 2023, the largest NATO air exercise since its founding. A US Air National Guard official told the War Zone that Russian officials can take away whatever message they want from the drill.

Against this background, a group of former top officials from France, Germany, the United States and Spain have written an op-ed in the Guardian Sunday encouraging more direct NATO military intervention against Russia, declaring We have to go all in in our support for Ukraine. They declare that Ukraine needs the combined force of tanks, longer-range missiles and aircraft to conduct a successful counterattack, paving the way to Ukrainian victory.

The press is full of such declarations. David Ignatius, writing in the Washington Post, argued, President Biden doesnt want to start World War III, but he will look back with regret if the United States and its allies leave any weapons or ammunition on the sidelines that could responsibly be used in this conflict. Whatever Biden might wish later he had done if things go badly, he should do now.

As the deteriorating military situation for the Ukrainian armed forces becomes increasingly apparent, NATO is making open plans to massively intensify its conflict with Russia.
(Reuters) - Rapid advances in artificial intelligence (AI) such as Microsoft-backed OpenAI's ChatGPT are complicating governments' efforts to agree on laws governing the use of the technology.

Here are the latest steps national and international governing bodies are taking to regulate AI tools:

AUSTRALIA

* Seeking input on regulations

The government requested advice on how to respond to AI from Australia's main science advisory body and is considering next steps, a spokesperson for the industry and science minister said on April 12.

BRITAIN

* Planning regulations

Britain said in March it planned to split responsibility for governing AI between its regulators for human rights, health and safety, and competition, rather than creating a new body.

CHINA

* Planning regulations

China's cyberspace regulator on April 11 unveiled draft measures to manage generative AI services, saying it wanted firms to submit security assessments to authorities before they launch offerings to the public.

China's capital Beijing will support leading enterprises in building AI models that can challenge ChatGPT, its economy and information technology bureau said in February.

EUROPEAN UNION

* Planning regulations

Twelve EU lawmakers urged world leaders on April 17 to hold a summit to find ways to control the development of advanced AI systems, saying they were developing faster than expected.

The European Data Protection Board, which unites Europe's national privacy watchdogs, on April 13 said it had set up a task force on ChatGPT, a potentially important first step towards a common policy on setting privacy rules on AI.

EU lawmakers are also discussing introduction of the European Union AI Act that will govern anyone who provides a product or a service that uses AI. Lawmakers have proposed classifying different AI tools according to their perceived level of risk, from low to unacceptable.

FRANCE

* Investigating possible breaches

France's privacy watchdog CNIL said on April 11 it was investigating several complaints about ChatGPT after the chatbox was temporarily banned in Italy over a suspected breach of privacy rules.

Story continues

France's National Assembly approved in March the use of AI video surveillance during the 2024 Paris Olympics, overlooking warnings from civil rights groups that the technology posed a threat to civil liberties.

IRELAND

* Seeking input on regulations

Generative AI, such as OpenAI's ChatGPT, needs to be regulated, but governing bodies must figure out how to do so properly before rushing into prohibitions that "really aren't going to stand up", Ireland's data protection chief said on Thursday.

ITALY

* Planning to lift ban

Italy's data protection watchdog is ready to reactivate ChatGPT on April 30 if OpenAI takes "useful steps" to address the agency's concerns, its chief said in an interview on April 18. On April 12, it had set an end-April deadline for OpenAI to meet its demands on data protection and privacy.

Italy imposed a temporary ban on ChatGPT on March 31 after the authority raised concerns over possible privacy violations and for failing to verify that users were aged 13 or above, as it had requested.

JAPAN

* Seeking input on regulations

Digital transformation minister Taro Kono said on April 10 he wanted the upcoming G7 digital ministers' meeting, set for April 29-30, to discuss AI technologies including ChatGPT and issue a unified G7 message.

SPAIN

* Investigating possible breaches

Spain's data protection agency said on April 13 it was launching a preliminary investigation into potential data breaches by ChatGPT. It has also asked the EU's privacy watchdog to evaluate privacy concerns surrounding ChatGPT, the agency told Reuters on April 11.

U.S.

* Seeking input on regulations

The Biden administration said on April 11 it was seeking public comments on potential accountability measures for AI systems. President Joe Biden had earlier told science and technology advisers that AI could help address disease and climate change, but it was also important to address potential risks to society, national security and the economy.

(Compiled by Amir Orusov and Alessandro Parodi in Gdansk; Editing by Milla Nissi, Peter Graff and Mark Potter)
NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Enbridge



Enbridge, Tuesday, April 18, 2023, Press release picture

One in nine central Pennsylvanians face hunger every day.

"We are at very high levels of need for food assistance, and there are a lot of factors weighing on families right now," says Joe Arthur, executive director at Central Pennsylvania Food Bank.

The Food Bank works to provide healthy food through an extensive network of partners across 27 counties and enlists the help of more than 16,000 volunteers to serve more than 150,000 people each month who might otherwise go hungry.

"We don't just provide the typical dry goods that you'd expect in a pantry, but also fresh and frozen foods, as well as produce and dairy," says Arthur.

The Food Bank and its partners have established a sophisticated operation. After collecting food donations from farms, orchards and even grocery store suppliers, the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank sorts and packages food at its two Healthy Food Hub locations in Williamsport, PA and Harrisburg, PA. The packages are distributed to more than 1,200 partner agencies who ultimately get them into the hands of those in-need.

In the past 10 years, effectively since Arthur assumed his role as executive director, the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank has grown to distribute approximately five times the amount of food to communities and neighbors in need.

"We saw an extraordinary increase in demand in about 2009 following the Great Recession, so we really needed to expand," says Arthur. "We turned our attention to growing our operations and focusing on healthy eating by building our fresh produce and dairy product operations."

He adds: "The last decade has been really transformational for the Food Bank and the people and families we serve."

Enbridge provided financial support to the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank in 2021 and 2022 through our Fueling Futures grants, which support initiatives that contribute to a sustainable future by helping to improve, grow and nurture the environment. Each donation of $5,000 has been directed toward the Food Bank's general operations.

Story continues

In addition to funding, Enbridge employees participated in a volunteer day during Hunger Action Month last September to pack 360 food boxes for seniors in need.

"Volunteering our time and skills is one of the most powerful ways to make a difference in our local community, and it can be just as rewarding for you as it is for those you are helping," says Kim Trois, a regional field analyst at Enbridge. "As it turns out, we had a ton of fun too."

Daily volunteer sessions highlight the current need for food security across the state, and donors can give in many ways-such as time, food or funds-to support the efforts.

Beyond working with countless passionate volunteers every day to serve the Food Bank's mission, Arthur notes the real impact his work has every day across central PA.

"I love going home at night knowing we are helping thousands of people get enough healthy food in their kitchen and pantries to serve good meals."

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Enbridge on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Enbridge

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/enbridge

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: Enbridge





View source version on accesswire.com:

https://www.accesswire.com/749854/Farm-to-Fork-From-County-to-County-in-Pennsylvania




FDCTech, Inc.

The Companys successful integration of wealth management and enhanced technology businesses drive a 1,310% increase in annual revenue and a staggering 2,310% increase in gross margin.



Irvine, CA, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- FDCTech, Inc. ("FDC" or the "Company," OTCQB: FDCT ), a fintech-driven company specializing in buying and integrating small to mid-size legacy financial services companies, today announced the following results for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2022, as compared to the corresponding period of last fiscal year:

The revenues generated for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022, and 2021 were $6,453,732 and $457,661, an increase of 1,310% from the previous period.



The technology revenues generated for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022, and 2021 were $626,000 and $301,648, an increase of 108% from the previous period.



The gross margin generated for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022, and 2021 were $1,018,940 and $42,277, an increase of 2,310% from the previous period.



During the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022, and 2021, the Company incurred a net loss of $1,043,045 and $1,734,059, a decrease of 40% from the previous period.



The net loss as a percentage of revenue decreased from 379% to 16% for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2022, compared to the previous period.



The cash on hand was $264,829 as of December 31, 2022, compared to $93,546 on December 31, 2021.



In the subsequent events highlights, the Company paid off all the outstanding balance of $550,000 and any accrued interest related to the AJB Note in February 2023.



Update on upcoming acquisitions:

CIM Securities, LLC: US Broker Dealer

On July 19, 2022, the Company signed a non-binding letter of intent to acquire fifty-one percent (51.00%) equity interest in CIM Securities, LLC (CIM Securities), a FINRA and SIPC member firm. On September 30, 2022, the Company signed a definitive agreement pending regulatory approval, paid a $20,000 non-refundable deposit, and transferred $180,000 to the escrow account to complete the transaction. FINRA Rule 1017 requires the Company to file continuing membership applications (CMAs) as it plans to apply for changes in ownership, control, and business operations. The Company filed the CMA form with FINRA in February 2023 to effect the change of ownership of CIM Securities, LLC, where the Company interest shall be 51.00%.

Story continues

NSFX Ltd.: European Market Maker

On December 31, 2022, the Company announced the sales purchase agreement (Agreement) under which the Company acquired a 50.10% equity interest in New Star Capital Trading Ltd., a British Virgin Island company (New Star) and its operating subsidiary NSFX Ltd (NSFX). NSFX is an online trading brokerage firm regulated by the Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA). The Company will assume a business acquisition loan liability of $350,000 to purchase the controlling interest in NSFX. The Company amended the Agreement to February 28, 2023, to comply with the BVI Companies Act requirement for the change of ownership. The Company expects to consolidate the fair value of NSFXs assets and liabilities on or after February 28, 2023, but no later than June 30, 2023.

This impressive growth is attributed to the successful integration of wealth management and enhanced technology businesses, providing a strong foundation for continued expansion and profitability. The Company's upcoming acquisitions further demonstrate its commitment to driving growth and delivering value to its investors.

Please visit our SEC filings or Company's website for more information on the full results and management's plan.

AD Advisory Services Pty Ltd.

AD Advisory Services Pty Ltd.  AFSL No. 237058, an independent specialist dealer group, provides licensing solutions for select education and compliance-focused financial advisors & accountants. ADS' dedicated management team are qualified financial planners that service metro and regional practices around Australia.

NSFX Ltd.

NSFX Ltd. (the "Company") is a limited liability company registered under the Companies Act, Cap  386 of the Laws of Malta, with registration number C 56519. The Malta Financial Services Authority regulates NSFX with a License Number IS/56519. NSFX is authorized to deal on its account as a Category 3 licensed entity by the MFSA, receive and transmit orders on behalf of retail and professional clients, and hold and control clients' money and assets. NSFX trading platform services in the English, French, German, Italian, and Arabic markets, whereby customers can trade in currency, commodity, equity, and cryptocurrency-linked derivatives in real time.

CIM Securities, LLC

CIM Securities, LLC is a broker-dealer registered with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and is a member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) and the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC). As a broker-dealer, CIM and our Investment Professionals offer brokerage services.

FDCTech, Inc.

FDCTech, Inc. ("FDC") is a US-based, fully integrated financial technology company. FDC specializes in buying and integrating small to mid-size legacy financial services companies. FDC develops and delivers a full suite of technology infrastructure solutions to forex, crypto, wealth management, and other future-proof financial sectors.

Press Release Disclaimer

This press release's statements may be forward-looking statements or future expectations based on currently available information. Such statements are naturally subject to risks and uncertainties. Factors such as the development of general economic conditions, future market conditions, unusual catastrophic loss events, 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. The Company does not make any representation or warranty, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, completeness, or updated status of such forward-looking statements or information provided by the third party. Therefore, in no case whatsoever will Company and its affiliate companies be liable to anyone for any decision made or action taken in conjunction with the information and/or statements in this press release or any related damages.

Contact Media Relations

FDCTech, Inc.

info@fdctech.com

www.fdctech.com

+1 877-445-6047

200 Spectrum Center Drive, Suite 300,

Irvine, CA, 92618




Complaint Illustrates Failure to Disclose Transactions - Violation of Campaign Finance Law

Washington, DC --News Direct-- Coolidge Reagan Foundation

[Washington, DC] [April 18, 2023]  Government Ethics watchdog, the Coolidge Reagan Foundation, announced it has filed a formal Federal Election Commission (FEC) complaint against New York Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC). The Complaint, filed by Dan Backer on behalf of the Foundation, details repeated, blatant violations of federal campaign finance law by AOC and her campaign in concealed how it spent thousands of dollars of campaign funds.

Backer and the Coolidge Reagan Foundation have a long history of winning FEC battles, including a $15,000 fine levied against Bernie Sanders campaign and an historic 6-figure fine against Hillary for America and the Democratic National Committee for lying about their funding of the Russia hoax.

The Complaint filed on Monday states in part, On numerous occasions throughout 2022, AOC for Congress reported tens of thousands of dollars of disbursements for card payments and card payment reimbursements to Congresswoman Ocasio-Cortez herself; American Express; and an entity called Veyond!, which appears to have provided virtual reality services and apparently no longer operates under that name. In each case, the reports do not fully disclose the purposes of each payment for which the charge card was used

The Complaint describes how campaigns are permitted to use charge cards (or reimburse candidates for use of their personal charge cards) for otherwise permissible campaign-related expenses, however, disclosure reports must accurately identify both the recipient of those funds, as well as each of the campaign-related goods and services purchased.

Without disclosing her credit card spending spree, it is impossible to determine if AOC is illegally using campaign funds to pay personal expenses, explained Dan Backer. Not only is the public entitled to that information, but without such disclosure, who knows what AOC and her campaign are hiding?

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For someone who harangues former President Trump on what amounts to trumped-up campaign finance allegations, it seems AOC should look in the mirror, Backer continued.

###

Please visit: https://www.coolidgereagan.org/.

For more information or to schedule an interview with a CFR spokesperson, contact Dan Rene at 202-329-8357 or danrenejr@gmail.com.

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View source version on newsdirect.com: https://newsdirect.com/news/fec-complaint-calls-out-aocs-credit-card-spending-spree-190330590
Just days before the Biden administration asked the Supreme Court to preserve access to a key abortion medication, the Justice Department issued a routine, but little-noticed announcement that the manufacturer of the drug  Danco Laboratories  had settled claims it violated customs laws.

Further, the federal government will award a bounty-like payment of about $116,000 to the anti-abortion legal entity that blew the whistle on the alleged violations.

Dancos only product is mifepristone, the drug at the center of the legal case before the Supreme Court and one of two parts of most medication abortions in the U.S.

Under the settlement dated March 31 and released last week, Danco agreed to pay $765,000 to the U.S. to resolve allegations that, from 2011 to 2019, the company failed to both properly label imports of the drug as originating in China and pay customs duties on imports lacking those labels.



Under the deal, Danco denied the allegations leveled by the Life Legal Defense Foundation in a lawsuit filed in a Sherman, Texas, federal court back in January 2021. However, the drugmaker said it was settling to avoid the delay, uncertainty, inconvenience, and expense of protracted litigation, according to the agreement.

The DOJs April 12 press release about the settlement names Danco, but does not mention the now high-profile abortion drug at the center of the dispute, mifepristone.

"Danco is committed to operating ethically and legally and reaffirms that this case did not concern the safety or efficacy of Dancos product," the company said in a statement. "The settlement allows Danco to continue to focus on providing high quality, safe, and effective medication to women in the United States."

Life Legal, a Napa, Calif.-based nonprofit group that opposes abortion, brought its suit under whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act. That allows third parties to file challenges on behalf of the U.S. government and claim between 15 percent and 30 percent if the action is successful.

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Life Legal will receive approximately $116,000 from Dancos payments to the Justice Department over the next roughly nine months, according to the settlement.

In a particularly awkward provision for Danco, which was specifically founded to ease access to medication abortion by distributing mifepristone in the U.S., the drug firm agreed to pay over $46,000 directly to the anti-abortion organization to cover its legal fees and costs related to the suit.



The suit was filed nine days after Joe Biden was sworn into office in January 2021, seemingly setting up a showdown between a president who supports abortion rights and the drugmaker. In accordance with federal law, the complaint was kept under seal while the government investigated. A judge unsealed portions of the records earlier this month.

Last week, the Justice Department and Danco asked the Supreme Court to preserve access to mifepristone after a lower court suspended FDA approval of the drug. Justice Samuel Alito issued a short-term stay while the court considers the request.
People walk past shuttered shops in Khartoum, Sudan, Monday, April 17, 2023. Sudans embattled capital has awoken to a third day of heavy fighting between the army and a powerful rival force for control of the country. Airstrikes and shelling intensified on Monday in parts of Khartoum and the adjoining city of Omdurman. | Marwan Ali, Associated Press

Residents of Khartoum, Sudans capital, have been dealing with the violence of rival generals fighting for control of the country for three days.

Millions of residents were forced to stay hidden inside their homes, and doctors and hospitals were struggling to cope with casualties and get the supplies and staff members that they needed, The New York Times reported.

At least 97 civilians have been killed in the crossfire  caught between battle frontlines.

Three major hospitals were between the frontlines and were struck, and one other hospital was evacuated, The Washington Post reported.

We are on the brink of collapse of the entire health-care system, Yasir Yousif Elamin, spokesman for the Sudan Doctors Union, told the Post. Supplies are running very low  we issued an appeal asking for intravenous fluids for blood and medicines.

What led to the fighting in Sudan?

The fighting began Saturday with paramilitary group Rapid Support Forces, led by Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, fighting against the Sudanese Army, led by Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan  a longstanding rivalry between Sudans two top generals who have been vying for dominance over the northeast African nation, per the Times.

The leaders of both groups had signed a draft deal in December that explained a plan to provide leadership to residents in the country, but details of how power would be transferred and who would be in charge were unclear. Sudanese activists took issue with placing both groups on the same level and said the Rapid Support Forces should be integrated into the national forces, per the Post.

Its unclear what escalated the fighting, and both sides blame the other for initiating the fight.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken called for a cease-fire and a return to talks between the two warring factions, NBC News reported.

People in Sudan want the military back in the barracks. They want democracy. They want civilian-led government. Sudan needs to return to that path, he told reporters Monday, per NBC News.
A Tennessee bill that would open book publishers and distributors to criminal prosecution for sending obscene materials to public schools is headed to Gov. Bill Lee.

The Tennessee House of Representatives approved Senate Bill 1059 in a 71-22 vote. It already passed the Senate last week, and now heads to Lees desk.

Sponsored by Rep. Susan Lynn, R-Mt. Juliet, and Sen. Joey Hensley, R-Hohenwald, the bill would empower local district attorneys and the Tennessee Attorney General to criminally charge and prosecute book publishers who knowingly distribute materials that violate state obscenity law to public schools and school districts.

Book publishers and distributors could face felony charges and fines of up to $100,000 per violation, if the bill is signed into law.

This is only for books being sent to the school, Lynn told The Tennessean. Certainly, if there are any sexually explicit books in teachers classrooms or in school libraries, they need to come out. You cant give sexually explicit books to minors.

The Tennessee Association of School Librarians opposed the bill. TASLs Legislative Committee noted that the bill could impact book publishers and distributors willingness to work with school districts in Tennessee, adding that it creates unnecessary bureaucracy, limits students access to books, and leaves us with lots of questions.

Children's books inside the library at Sunset Middle School is in Brentwood, Tenn., Tuesday, Feb. 22, 2022.

In addition to existing state obscenity law, Tennessee already has policies in place to prevent inappropriate materials from being in school libraries. Last year, the legislature passed the Age Appropriate Materials Act, which requires each public and public charter school to maintain a list of materials in the library collection, and periodically review items to ensure they are appropriate for students age and maturity levels, and remove anything inappropriate.

Democrats last year opposed the measure, characterizing the effort as a solution in search of a problem that created additional bureaucracy for educators.

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Lynn said the bill is intended to build on the states effort to keep inappropriate materials out of reach for school children.

School librarians in her district raised concerns with Lynn about how to dispose of inappropriate, sexually explicit materials included alongside science books and historical adventure books in shipments to their school. Lynn said she drafted the bill after consulting with her district attorney, and the Tennessee Attorney General's Office.

On Monday, Rep. Gloria Johnson, D-Knoxville, asked Lynn to identify a librarian who had raised concerns with her, though Lynn didn't acknowledge the request.

Rep. Vincent Dixie, D-Nashville, rose in opposition of the bill Monday night, noting his wife is a school librarian. Dixie said Lynn's explanation for how school libraries intake books "is not how it happens."

"We have a penchant for creating bills and legislation, and we don't talk with the stakeholders," Dixie said. "We've committed an entire new workload for them that is unnecessary. It shows we're not listening to our teachers."

Under the bill, local district attorneys and the attorney general would have prosecutorial discretion on what materials constitute violations of the states obscenity law.

It does not change the current process for removing obscene books from libraries, Senate Republican Caucus spokesperson Molly Gormley told The Tennessean. It is intended to add accountability on the publishers, distributors and sellers to ensure obscene materials are not distributed to schools and made available to minors.

State law already prohibits providing obscene materials to children. Title 39 defines obscene materials as those that anyone applying contemporary community standards would find appeals to the prurient interest, or describes, in a patently offensive way, sexual conduct, and taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political or scientific value.

Lynn declined to identify a specific book that could cause distributors to be prosecuted under the states obscenity law, saying that it would apply to any books that get sexually explicit.

If there are sexually explicit sentences in the book, that qualifies, Lynn said. Were sorry its the entire book, but they chose to put sexually explicit content in the book.

Once signed by House and Senate speakers, Lee will have 10 days, excluding Sundays, to sign or veto the bill before it becomes law.

Melissa Brown contributed to this story.

Reach Vivian Jones at vjones@tennessean.com.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Tennessee schools: Publishers to face prosecution over explicit books
uk eu handshake brexit

There will be controls on privacy and facial recognition. Copyrights will be upheld. And there will be safeguards to make sure that employees and consumers are adequately protected.

As the new generation of chatbots take artificial intelligence into the mainstream for the first time, the European Union is planning the first regulatory system for the booming industry, and officials and parliamentarians are weighing in with their long lists of demands.

Doubtless there need to be some rules in place, and AI systems cannot become some new Wild West.

But the EUs planned rules, typical of the bloc, look as though they may turn into a bureaucratic monster that will punish start-ups and crush innovation.

And this means that, if Britain is bold enough to resist the gravitational pull of the EU system, a huge space could grow up.

We could become a hub for entrepreneurship and investment in what could become one of the fastest growing sectors of the economy.

With the launch of GPT-4, alongside rivals from Google, Amazon and soon from Elon Musk, AI is moving out of the sci-fi movies and into everyday life.

Yes, it remains to be seen whether any of the new systems now available can make any money when the field is so crowded, and many of the main products are being given away for nothing for many uses.

But it is still a breakthrough technology with the potential to transform white-collar productivity and kick-start growth. Money is pouring into the sector at rapid speed, with tech giants and the venture capital firms rushing to invest.

But the European Union risks tying itself in knots over how to regulate AI's newest sensation.

Lawmakers are still locked in negotiations on the planned Artificial Intelligence Act, which would create a common regulatory and legal framework for the technology, intended to shape the way developers, providers, users and governments build, deploy, and use AI.

According to its supporters, it will protect consumers and privacy. The expectation is that, like GDPR, it could become a global standard.

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Yet, much like critics of GDPR note of that legislation, it could well prove excessively bureaucratic and chill innovation. The experience of data protection regulations showed how unclear, complex and expensive rules can discourage start-ups.

Too often, policymakers fail to fully appreciate the potential downsides from the regulations they impose. They don't consider the deterrent to new entrants in a particular market, or to potential investors.

The EU's proposed AI rules contain four separate risk levels.

Christmas will come early for lawyers who can spend years arguing about which category a piece of software falls into, and the law may make it too risky to launch certain applications.

There is a concern it could lead to facial recognition technology being banned in public spaces, even though it could do away with cumbersome ticketing or password systems.

Even simple tasks like recruitment or insurance, where there is lots of potential for AI to speed up processing and cut costs, could require companies to log activity and submit detailed reports on the system to a new breed of regulator.

Indeed, some believe software using so-called large language models could be subjected to the strictest possible controls, regardless of whether it is used in sensitive areas such as hiring staff.

We have all seen enough sci-fi films to worry that the robots may one day turn on us, and the smarter they get the higher the risk.

Google's chief executive Sundar Pichai recently admitted the risks posed by AI keep him up at night. But the EUs proposed regulatory system may be an overreaction.

Google CEO Sundar Pichai - Photo By Bill Clark/CQ Roll Call

Its heavy-handed response, designed to ensure AI is used ethically and in the public interest, also runs the risk of deterring start-ups  and big investors  from the continent.

The EUs AI Act is prescriptive, risks stifling innovation and could blunt Europes edge in AI, warned Robin Rohm, founder of the Berlin based AI start-up Apheris told Sifted this week.

Britain, on the other hand, has gone rogue with a government white paper that favours a hands-off approach with no plans to introduce new legislation. That could be bad news for the rest of Europe.

In other words, the UK is taking a pro-innovation, pro-experimentation approach.

We do not appear to subscribe to the EU view, while the government's AI white paper, published last month, proposed a potentially lighter touch system of controls.

The concern, however, is that if EU legislation is passed and proves more onerous, we will come under huge pressure to introduce similar standards of our own.

Lobbying groups, perhaps funded by large incumbents anxious to prevent nimbler start-ups attacking their markets, could insist that consumers are being put at risk.

We may be told that diverging from EU standards will make it harder for our companies to sell products across the continent so we might as well sign up to whatever it proposes.

And there could well be some hints from Brussels that if the UK doesnt fall into line with its rules data transfer will be blocked, and trade reduced.

The Remainer arguments with which we are all now so familiar will be tweaked and resubmitted with an AI twist.

But there can be no justification for pulling down UK-based firms simply to create a level playing field.

Back in 2021, start-ups told the Coadec campaign group that they were overwhelmingly concerned that the EU's proposals were too restrictive and will hurt innovation.

We have the third largest AI ecosystem in the world, behind the US and China. There has already been 13.7 billion worth of investment into UK AI companies via nearly 5,000 deals, according to Henry Whorwood of Beauhurst.

After a long wait, this could be our first big, post-Brexit economic win.
Things have been almost frighteningly quiet at this years MIPTV international television market, which runs through Wednesday in Cannes, but a trickle of deal announcements suggests that while cutbacks and cost-cutting may be the order of the day, some business is still being done.

French giant Studiocanal on Tuesday unveiled a flurry of territory sales for two new Belgium thrillers, The Crash and 1985, both based on real-life events, that are part of the companys MIPTV slate.

More from The Hollywood Reporter

The Crash is a dramatization of the 1992 airline disaster, in which El Al Flight 1862 to Tel Aviv crashed into two jam-packed residential high-rises in the suburbs of Amsterdam. 1985 tells the story of Belgiums most notorious, unsolved crime spree involving a series of violent attacks, believed to be carried out by three men, which resulted in the death of 28 people.

SBS Australia, Canal+ in France, Disney+ and BeTV in Belgium, Germanys MagentaTV / Telekom , Free TV Israel and Cellcom Israel, RTP Portugal, and Cosmo Spain acquired local rights to The Crash. The five-hour limited series was created and written by Michael Leendertse (Turbulent Skies), directed by Lourens Blok and Edson Da Conceicao and produced by Fleur Winters via Big Blue for NPO1/KRO-NCRV.

Canal+ took 1985 for France, the Czech Republic and Solvakia, with further deals with SBS Australia, Free TV Israel, Irelands TG4 and Filmin for Portugal and Spain. The 8-part series was written by Willem Wallyn, directed by Wouter Bouvijn and produced by Peter Bouckaert. It marks the first-ever drama co-commissioned by two Belgian public broadcasters: VRT and RTBF, and was produced by Eyeworks in Belgium.

Best of The Hollywood Reporter

Click here to read the full article.
The parents of Colorado 22-year-old Christian Glass, who was fatally shot in his car by police last June after calling 911 for help, on Monday demanded not only justice for their son but an end to the pervasive gun violence that has left Americans  and visitors to the country  scared.

Its known throughout the world; we know people that don't even want to visit us in America because they're too scared, said Sally Glass, originally from England, as she stood next to her husband, New Zealand native Simon. Our daughter is at college ... We just moved her to the third storey. She's scared ... people are scared.

The Glasses were speaking after the Monday court appearance of former Clear Creek County Sheriffs Deputies Andrew Buen and Kyle Gould, who are charged in the 11 June 2022 death of their son. Mr Buen, who allegedly shot and killed Christian, is charged with second-degree murder, reckless endangerment and official misconduct. Mr Gould, his former supervisor, was watching and giving instructions remotely on the tragic night; he is charged with criminally negligent homicide and reckless endangerment.

Simon and Sally Glass have been present at every court hearing in Georgetown, Colorado for the officers charged with murder in the death of their son, Christian, 22 (Sheila Flynn)

Lawyers for both defendants had argued against the charges but a judge ruled earlier this month that there was sufficient evidence to allow the case to continue. Fifth Judicial District Judge Catherine Cheroutes wrote that evidence supported probable cause that Mr Buen intentionally and maliciously caused harm to Christian by shooting and killing him.

The malicious intent can be inferred from the aggressive demeanor and the ultimate action of the Defendant shooting Mr Glass as seen in the body cam footage, she wrote.

The prosecution has filed a petition for the pair to be tried together, and on Monday the judge set a June court date, by which time both legal teams will have submitted responses to the motion and other matters will be addressed.

The Glasses have repeatedly pushed for charges brought against other officers, as well. After Christian called 911 last June, seven officers from multiple agencies were involved in the response. They spoke with Christian  who appeared to be suffering from some sort of nonviolent mental episode but repeatedly offered to throw anything that could be considered a weapon out of the car  for more than an hour. When he refused orders to exit his vehicle, Christian was hit with a stun gun, appeared to grab a tiny knife while thrashing around in the drivers seat, and was then quickly shot dead.

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Officers had been laughing and joking while cajoling Christian just minutes before he was killed.

Christian Glass smiles with his parents, Sally and Simon Glass, from England and New Zealand, respectively (The Glass Family)

Ms Glass said on Monday that continued reports of new fatal police shootings in the months since their sons death have left them trying not to watch the news too much ... because we find it so triggering.

Honestly, were doing a bit of self preservation at the moment, she said. Its not because we dont care deeply, its just that [theres] just so much a human being can handle.

Going further than addressing just police shootings, however, Mrs Glass insisted that America has got to ban assault rifles to curb gun deaths and further mass tragedies.

In January, Mr Glass lamented the death of Tyre Nichols at the hands of police following another court hearing for the ex-deputies charged with killing his son.

I saw Tyres parents interview, part of the interview that they did, and really see the same thing we were going through  just disbelief, he said. I think he said something like, Im just trying to make it home or something like that.

What are they doing? What are they doing? he said of police departments and violent altercations.

Watching former deputies Buen and Gould in court, the Glasses said on Monday, was incredibly hard ... its awful and we have nightmares about it  but they continue to attend all court hearings for our son.

Our son lost his life, Mrs Glass said, through tears. The least we can do, as parents, is come up and support him, because I believe, somehow, hes still around.

Mr Buen and Mr Gould are scheduled to next appear in court on 21 June.
Clyde Stubblefield was the man who played drums with James Brown during some of his most celebrated years and created the endlessly-sampled break on 1970s Funky Drummer.

When he died on February 18, 2017 of kidney failure, at 73, his fellow member of Browns band and later funk figurehead Bootsy Collins wrote on Facebook: We lost another Pillar Stone that held up the Foundation of Funk. Mr. Clyde Stubblefield has left our frequency. I am lost for words & Rythme [sic] right now. Dang Clyde! U taught me so much as I stood their watchin over u & Jabo while keepin one eye on the Godfather. We all loved U so much.

Ironically, among the many Brown classics on which Stubblefield played, Funky Drummer was not one of the Godfather of Souls biggest hits, reaching No.20 on the R&B chart and only No.51 pop. But it went on, effectively, to create the hip-hop breakbeat, sampled more than a thousand times on such staples as Public Enemys Fight The Power, LL Cool Js Mama Said Knock You Out, and, often, in the pop world, on such hits as George Michaels Freedom 90. Public Enemy wrote on Twitter: R.I.P. to the funky drummer - Clyde Stubblefield - from the entire PE family.

Stubblefield was born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, on April 18, 1943, and was a professional drummer even in his teens. He joined Browns band in 1965 and became one of the soul legends two drummers of choice into the early 1970s, along with John Jabo Starks. Clyde played on such enduring tracks by Brown as Cold Sweat, There Was A Time, Say It Loud  Im Black And Im Proud, and Get Up (I Feel Like Being A Sex Machine).

He subsequently worked with countless other musicians, releasing his first solo album The Revenge of the Funky Drummer in 1997 and recording in the early 2000s with Starks as the Funkmasters. In 2008, with another Brown bandmate, trombonist Fred Wesley, he released Funk For Your Ass.

Story continues

People use my drum patterns on a lot of these songs, Stubblefield said in an interview with the New York Times in 2011. They never gave me credit, never paid me. It didnt bug me or disturb me, but I think its disrespectful not to pay people for what they use.

Listen to the best of James Brown on Apple Music and Spotify.

For the latest music news and exclusive features, check out uDiscover Music.

uDiscover Music is operated by Universal Music Group (UMG). Some recording artists included in uDiscover Music articles are affiliated with UMG.
Luxury tour operator Safrans du Monde brings French flair to around-the-world private jet trips.

MAREK SIKORA/Courtesy of Safrans du Monde

With around-the-world private jet tours drawing plenty of attention from well-heeled travelers, French luxury travel operator Safrans du Monde is offering a brand-new Grand Classiques World Tour, a 22-day journey that begins and ends in Paris this fall.

Courtesy of Safrans du Monde

It's a true around-the-world trip, with multiple days spent at each destination. The first stop is Rio de Janeiro, where guests will visit the famed Ipanema and Copacabana beaches, as well as Sugarloaf Mountain. Next up is Cusco, Peru, the gateway to Machu Picchu, followed by Chile's Easter Island for a double dose of ancient history.

Courtesy of Safrans du Monde

The voyage continues across the Pacific with a stop in French Polynesia before making its way to Sydney, where guests will take a private tour of the Sydney Opera House. Then, guests are flown northwest to Hanoi and Ha Long Bay in Vietnam and Siem Reap in Cambodia to see Angkor Wat. And the last leg includes two more ancient wonders: the Taj Mahal in Agra, India, and Petra in Jordan, plus the otherworldly desert of Wadi Rum.

Courtesy of Safrans du Monde

When guests aren't on Safrans du Monde's private Airbus A340, where they're treated to fine dining  Champagne included, of course  and luxe lie-flat seats, they're hosted in five-star hotels in each destination.

Courtesy of Safrans du Monde

What sets Safrans du Monde apart from other private jet tour operators is that there are two classes of service: Club Safrans and Premiere Safrans. While both are all-inclusive, Premiere Safrans takes the journey to another level, offering first-class seats on the plane rather than business class, exclusive excursions, and ultra-luxurious hotel stays. Club Safrans is, of course, still quite extravagant, but is nearly $40,000 less.

Paul Causse/Courtesy of Safrans du Monde

For the Grand Classiques World Tour, which runs from Oct. 24 to Nov. 14 this fall, Club Safrans costs about $75,000 per person and Premiere Safrans costs $115,000 per person; make your booking now at safransdumonde.com.

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Read the original article on Travel & Leisure.
Lost Dog Stranded on Sea Ice in Alaska

(Photo Credit: A&J Fotos / Getty Images)

In Alaska, a one-year-old dog survived a remarkable 150-mile journey across frozen Bering Sea ice, reported The Guardian.

Named Nanuqthe Siberian Yusik word for polar bearthe dog lives with his owner, Mandy Iworrigan, in Gambell, Alaska. A black and white Australian Shepherd, Nanuq went missing last month while visiting Savoonga, another nearby community. At the time, he was with Iworrigan and their other family dog, Starlight. Notably, both dogs went missing at the same time. While Starlight was found a few weeks later, Nanuq remained unfound.

A lost dog stranded in Alaska for almost a month

Almost a month later, people in the town of Wales began posting pictures online of what they described as a lost dog. Iworrigan saw the pictures and realized it was her wandering hound. Incredibly, Nanuq had made his way 150 miles northeast of Savoonga on Alaskas western coast.

To get Nanuq back to Gambell, Iworrigan used airline points to get him on a regional air carrier. Specifically, Nanuq was put on a charter flight transporting athletes for the Bering Strait school districts Native Youth Olympics tournament. When the plane landed at the airstrip in Savoonga, both Iworrigan and her daughter Brooklyn began shrieking with joy.

Unfortunately, Nanuq arrived with a swollen leg and some large bite marks. Although the animal responsible remains unidentified, it may have been a seal or polar bear. Otherwise, Nanuq was in pretty good health, all things considered.

Interestingly, the question now is just how Nanuq survived for a month floating on sea ice. For her part, Iworrigan believes he probably ate seal leftovers along with probably catching a few birds. However, Iworrigan said she wouldnt put it past Nanuq to have caught a seal during his voyage. He eats our Native foods, she said. Hes smart.

Dont risk losing your dog

Thankfully, new technology has made it far easier to find a lost dog. Although Nanuqs circumstances are very extraordinary, most dog owners can avoid a similar scenario by microchipping their pets. Additionally, there are some basic dos and donts dog owners should follow if they happen to lose their pets.

Ultimately, Nanuqs journey will likely always be a mystery. But his survival and eventual safe return home have captivated the local community and people around the world. And more importantly, he made one lucky dog owner very, very happy.

The post Lost Dog Stranded on Sea Ice in Alaska appeared first on DogTime.
PIERRE  The South Dakota Board of Education Standards approved new social studies standards Monday after four public hearings across the state, despite opposition from a majority of South Dakota educators and the states nine tribes.

As of April 14, the Board had received 1,295 public comments on the standards, with most of comments (1,137), against the standards, 121 in favor and 37 neutral.

Despite Monday being a school day, dozens of educators, students and Indigenous education advocates protested before the hearing and also spoke during public comment time about why they opposed the standards.

Students stand in opposition to the proposed social studies standards ahead of a Board of Education Standards meeting in Pierre on April 17, 2023. From right to left: Alyssa Plamk, Lizee DuBray, Emilee DuBray, Gabrielle Kenny and Honz Fuller.

Many had criticized the standards for not being age-appropriate, not coming from a majority of South Dakotans and not having enough emphasis on Indigenous history.

The standards will begin being taught to students as soon as the 2025-2026 school year.

A two-year implementation period will start in June at the Department of Education along with the state historical society and Office of Indian Education to help current teachers learn how to put the standards into practice.

The final vote on adopting the standards passed 5-2, with board members Julie Westra, Linda Olsen, Phyllis Heineman, Rich Meyer and Steve Perkins voting in support and former Huron superintendent Terry Nebelsick and Belle Fourche Superintendent Steve Willard voting in opposition. The sole proponent currently certified to teach in South Dakota is Olsen.

How did South Dakotans react?

Seconds after the board passed the standards, Gov. Kristi Noem issued a statement applauding the passage and said South Dakotas students will be taught the best social studies education in the country, one that is a true accounting of our history.

Education Secretary Joe Graves said in a statement the vote was an important step in equipping South Dakota students with the solid grounding in history and civics they need to exercise their role as citizens.

Meanwhile, South Dakota Education Association President Loren Paul said the boards decision is very troubling and that SDEA is disappointed the board chose to ignore educators, parents and community leaders who were almost unanimous in their opposition.

Story continues

More: New social studies standards should be 'free from political agendas and activism,' DOE draft states

While this decision is frustrating for educators, it is truly a complete disservice to South Dakotas students, Paul said in a statement shortly after the vote. Unfortunately, the majority of the board decided to put politics ahead of the needs of students. Instead of working with the people who will be responsible for implementing these standards, the board decided to completely ignore them.

Paul said its abundantly clear the board doesnt value or respect the work teachers do every day in their classrooms.

South Dakota Education Association president Loren Paul speaks against the proposed social studies standards at a Board of Education Standards hearing in Pierre on April 17, 2023.

SDEA is asking legislators to bring more clarity for the composition of the board, because the majority are not certified to teach or be an administrator in South Dakota.

Samantha Walder, principal of Tea Area Legacy Elementary School and a member of the workgroup tasked with developing the standards, said she wished the board had compromised and done better by bringing the workgroups from both 2021 and 2022 together.

Walder said the next steps for educators are careful reflection and evaluation in school buildings, and talking with teachers. She compared Mondays decision by the board to one of the new standards themselves: tyranny.

Theres a place in the standards now that talks about the definition of tyranny: when a small group of people are able to direct what a larger populace is doing, Walder says. I hope that thats not the case here. I wish we could have found consensus.

Samantha Walder, principal of Tea Area Legacy Elementary School, listens to testimony on the proposed social studies standards during a Board of Education Standards meeting in Pierre on April 17, 2023.

'There is no win-win in this process"

Before the board voted, board president Terry Nebelsick gave a statement during the hearing, explaining why he opposed the current rewrite of standards for South Dakotas schoolchildren. He said he didnt believe the standards, which had some influence from Hillsdale College curriculum that has been implemented in multiple states, follows state law on not adopting curriculum from a multi-state consortium.

These hearings should not be a debate with point, counterpoint, where one side tries to win, Nebelsick said. There is no win-win in this process. The longer its gone on, its become obvious that it will be a lose-lose endeavor.

More: Educators question age appropriateness of South Dakota's proposed social studies standards

The board heard from proponents, like DOE officials, college professors, national historians and disgruntled legislators, along with opponents, Nebelsick said, but he took offense to legislators disrespect for public school teachers, administrators and board members.

We are not a bunch of union workers in a non-union state, he said. Your comments are mean-spirited and totally unfounded by the work that we do.

Willard added onto Nebelsicks opposing comments, saying this process has become too divisive and this isnt what South Dakota is about.

The Board of Education Standards listens to testimony on the proposed social studies standards during a meeting in Pierre on April 17, 2023.

Heineman said shes hopeful the passion that came from all sides on this issue will be channeled into making the standards work in the future. Westra said she believed the standards were good, and shes appalled by what some students dont know.

Olsen said she appreciated the representation of Lakota, Dakota and Nakota people who attended the hearing, but the current standards are a step in the right direction and set our standards high.

Meyer admitted in his comments that while hes not a teacher, he finds students dont know enough about American history and the status quo isnt good enough. Perkins said he blesses those who teach, but that South Dakota has to do better. Both Perkins and Meyer are the newest additions to the board, appointed by Gov. Kristi Noem.

After the vote, Nebelsick said on behalf of children in the state, hes optimistic educators will do the best with the decisions made. He also said he believes in the process and doesnt doubt the integrity of any board members who listened and made their best decision.

'Children need heroes,' DOE Secretary argues

Workgroup facilitator William Morrisey, a former Hillsdale College politics professor, was present for Mondays hearing and told the Argus Leader beforehand he was cautiously optimistic of how the board would vote.

William Morrisey (center), a retired politics professor from Hillsdale College and the facilitator of the 2022 workgroup, listens to comments during a Board of Education Standards meeting in Pierre on April 17, 2023.

By the end of Mondays hearing, the tally of social studies workgroup members from either the 2015, 2021 or 2022 workgroups who have spoken out about the standards grew to 30, with at least 11 of them voicing support and 19 of them voicing opposition throughout the last four hearings.

Overall, the proponents argued the standards as they're written form a strong foundation that will lead to a more informed and engaged citizenry, that past civics education wasn't up to par and that the sequence and spiraling of the standards will help students build on what they learned in past grades and memorize important facts.

Meanwhile, opponents largely argued the board would be disregarding educators if they passed these standards, they arent whats best for children, not enough standards point to South Dakota or Oceti Sakowin history, this will burden thousands of educators across the state with choosing and purchasing new curriculum, and that this will contribute to the states teacher shortage.

Multiple students spoke during the hearing on both sides of the standards, but the strongest visual representation of students came from Lakota Tech High School and Todd County High School, a dozen of whom took time from their school day to ask that more Indigenous consultation and history be included in the standards.

One of those students was Jordan Rahyn, who told board members students used to make fun of her culture, because they werent informed about it. Standards should teach more Indigenous curriculum to prevent that, she said.

Jordan Rahyn speaks in opposition to the proposed social studies standards in Pierre on April 17, 2023 during a Board of Education Standards meeting.

Aspen Taylor, a South Dakota State University student going into early childhood education, said the standards didnt include enough age-appropriate or culturally-appropriate practices.

In his rebuttal to the opponents, Graves had DOE staff bring up easels to hold portraits of former presidents George Washington and Abraham Lincoln to be on display while he spoke. He explained he wanted their pictures shown, because children need heroes.

In a rare sight, audience member and Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate tribal education director Sherry Johnson called for a point of order in the paintings being displayed, explaining nobody else was able to have visual aids throughout the hearing. Nebelsick agreed to this, calling for the visual aids to be removed. Graves then gave his rebuttal.

Department of Education Secretary Joe Graves speaks in support of social studies standards at the Board of Education Standards meeting in Pierre on April 17, 2023.

'Trashed and put by the wayside'

Students from Lakota Tech High School and Todd County High School, along with educators and Indigenous leaders from SDEA and the South Dakota Education Equity Coalition, stood in solidarity against the standards before the hearing Monday morning.

Honz Fuller, a 17-year-old at Lakota Tech High School, said he wanted to speak up for the next generation in opposition to the standards so that more of his relatives know where they come from, and so even non-Native people learn more about history.

Honz Fuller (far right) speaks against the proposed social studies standards ahead of a Board of Education Standards meeting in Pierre on April 17, 2023 as his peers (left to right) Gabrielle Kenny, Emilee and Lizee DuBray and Alyssa Plamk look on.

Alyssa Plamk, a 15-year-old at Todd County High School, said the standards are ridiculous, and she and her classmates wanted their voices to be heard on this issue.

I havent learned much of my own culture in school, which is funny, because Im on the reservation, she said. Id like to learn a lot more about my culture, not the Declaration of Independence.

Johnson, a member of the workgroup that drafted the original social studies standards in 2021, said the first workgroup was able to find a consensus together by talking in roundtables until each and every standard was agreed upon.

Dr. Sherry Johnson (left) a tribal education director for the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate and Dr. Cherie Farlee (right) education director of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe stand in opposition to the proposed social studies standards ahead of a Board of Education Standards meeting in Pierre on April 17, 2023.

Coming out of that session, it was a beautiful feeling, a collegial feeling of working with all the rest of the teachers, Johnson said. It was just a big letdown to know that our whole standards document that we painstakingly spent a lot of our time creating to have it just trashed and put by the wayside.

Cherie Farlee, education director of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, said she didnt know who she was until she was 21 years old and believes without the ability to learn more about ones culture and identity, We dont have anything.

This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: SD social studies standards adopted, despite opposition
Tarrant County elections administrator Heider Garcia resigned from his position in a letter dated April 16 after working for the county since 2018.

During his time as elections administrator, Garcia received death threats despite his work in ensuring election transparency.

In a 2022 letter sent to the Senate Judiciary Committee, Garcia cited threats he and his family received following skepticism surrounding the 2020 election results.

The states final 2020 general election results audit report recorded Tarrant County as administering a quality, transparent election.

What threats did Heider Garcia receive?

Garcia outlined instances of targeted accusations following the 2020 election in his 2022 letter.

Garcia said that Conservative political commentator Michelle Malkin did a segment on Newsmax about Tarrant County and claimed Garcia was a Venezuelan born operative that had fled the country.

The Gateway Pundit website tied Tarrant Countys Democratic voter turnout to Garcias hiring.

Texas State Representative Steve Toth tweeted Meet Heider Garcia of SmartMatic as hes grilled in the Philippines over voter fraud. He now runs election in Tarrant County Texas What could go possibly wrong?

A Senatorial candidate in Florida tweeted I want more intel on him ASAP and later that I need more on Heider Garcia.

In the 2022 letter, Garcia said he saw threats on social media that said HUNT HIM DOWN, @heidergarcia needs to leave Texas and the U.S as soon as possible, hang him when convicted from fraud and let his lifeless body hang in public until maggots drip out his mouth and Whats his address.

Garcia said a Twitter account posted his address on Nov. 22, 2020 in response to a tweet from Sidney Powell, a former attorney to former President Donald Trump.

We were lucky enough that my wife saw it as we were going to bed, and we were able to report it and have it taken down within 2 hours, Garcia said in the letter. Can you imagine the level of stress this put on us? I could not sleep that night, I just sat in the living room, until around 3:00 a.m., just waiting to see if anyone had read this and decided to act on it. The next days were the Thanksgiving break, I spent those days installing security cameras around my house and preparing response plans with my wife for worse case scenarios.
Pamela Walker, mother of Jayland Walker, wipes away tears during a press conference Monday at St. Ashworth Temple Church of God in Christ.

Did Jayland Walker intend to die the night police shot and killed him last year?

Its one of the biggest questions the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) tried to answer during its 10-month investigation into his death.

The Akron Beacon Journal is still combing through thousands of pages of BCI reports, videos and photos to provide a deeper understanding of what happened. But a summary of the case revealed for the first time how state investigators and police from Akron and Euclid zeroed in on a theory early on: suicide by cop.

BCI report: Jayland Walker searched 'quickest way to die' before his death

Walker, 25, died June 27, 2022, about a month after his fiancee was killed in a car crash near Cincinnati.

In the weeks between her death and his, Walker searched Google for the quickest ways to die and drinking bleach, according to a prosecutor summary of the case released Monday by BCI.

But he also searched for one-way tickets to far-flung places on other continents.

Who was Jaymeisha Beasley?: Jayland Walker's fiancee died in wreck weeks before shooting

During this time, Walker  who had no criminal record  confided in his best friend Dupri Whatley, a Summit County sheriffs deputy who works at the jail, the report said.

Whatley said he tried to console Walker and invited Walker to an Akron gun range one day to blow off steam. At the range, Whatley taught Walker how to load and fire a gun  things Walker didnt know how to do, the report stated.

A couple of weeks later, unbeknownst to Whatley, Walker bought a handgun of his own, the report said.

Ten months after Akron police shot and killed Jayland Walker, the Ohio attorney general released the state investigation file into the shooting, including thousands of pages of documents and scores of photos and videos. The Akron Beacon Journal is combing through the records and reporting what it finds here.

What happened the night Jayland Walker was killed?

Walker carried the gun with him on June 26, when he left home at 10:04 p.m., the report said.

Walker appeared to have no destination. Investigators determined he was not working his regular job, delivering for Uber Eats or DoorDash that night, the report said. Instead, he was just driving around Greater Akron for about 2 hours.

Story continues

At 11:14 p.m., for example, Walker returned to the same location where New Franklin police tried to stop him the night before, the first time he fled from police  and escaped, the report said.

At 11:59 p.m., cellular data pinged Walker downtown.

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He apparently left the area  the summary report doesnt say where he went  but returned downtown at 12:16 a.m.

Six minutes later, two Akron police officers in Car 24 saw Walkers 2005 Buick Century on North Hill near North Howard Street and Tallmadge Avenue.

The license plate light was burned out. As Walker headed south on state Route 8, officers ran his plate number through a police database. The only thing that popped up was a note saying the vehicle had evaded police the previous night in New Franklin, the report said.

In a still image a video released Monday, a Cuyahoga Falls police cruiser dash camera shows Akron police chasing Jayland Walker onto the Route 8 southbound ramp at Tallmadge Avenue. State investigators said Walker fired one shot from his car moments later. He was shot and killed by Akron police a short time later on June 27, 2022.

The New Franklin note said police thought that driver was white.

Akron police initially decided against stopping Walker.

There were no warrants. There was no criminal record," Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost said Monday during a press conference, adding that officers told investigators it would be too dangerous to pursue the vehicle for a burnt-out light.

Jayland Walker case coverage: Why local journalists matter for covering the Jayland Walker case from beginning to end

Walker drove away, but data show he returned to North Howard and Tallmadge at 12:30 a.m., the report said.

When the same officers saw the car again, Yost said it "piqued their curiosity" because they had watched the car enter the highway less than 15 minutes before. Now, it was back.

This time, Car 24 tried to stop Walker and, for the second time in two days, Walkers car fled.

A police officer points a gun at Jayland Walker in a bodycam image shown during a news conference at the Firestone Community Center on July 3 in Akron, Ohio.

As Walker drove south onto Route 8 for at least the second time that night, investigators said he fired his new gun. Ballistics matched the gun to a casing found on the entrance ramp, the report said.

More Akron police joined the crosstown chase until Walker jumped from his car in Firestone Park.

Walker left his gun behind, unloaded with a clip on the seat. With it, he left a ring his family said he always wore. The report said it was like a wedding ring, representing the relationship between Walker and his fiancee, whom he had been with since high school.

A still image by the Akron Police Department shows the gun they say was in the car of Jayland Walker along with a wedding band during the press conference at the Firestone Community Center on Sunday, July 3, 2022 in Akron on the presentation of the body cam video in the police shooting of Jayland Walker.

What Jayland Walker's mom, sister told BCI investigators

Investigators, even before they knew about Walkers Google search history or circuitous drive the night he died, began questioning whether Walkers death could have been suicide by cop.

Even if Walker intended suicide by cop, it wouldnt necessarily exonerate the officers who fired the shots. It might, however, help explain why a man who had no previous run-ins with law enforcement acted so out of character by running from police and firing a gun.

On June 29, BCI Special Agent Cory Momchilov asked Walkers mom and sister  Pamela and Jada Walker  if Walker made any comments about being upset or suicidal.

Both said no.

Nothing like that, Jada Walker said, according to the report. And, you know, I can only imagine what goes through someone's mind like that when they lose, you know, say their significant other or even in this case you figure a soul mate, but throughout this time, you know, he never brought anything like that to our attention.

Jayland Walker with his mother, Pamela, right, and sister, Jada.

Text messages between Walker and his mother in the 48 hours before his death showed how Walker was having trouble coping after his fiancee's death. He couldn't even watch television, Walker told his mother.

"It reminds me of her," Walker texted his mom.

Pam Walker responded: "I pray for you day and night that God helps you through this and try to give you some peace. I love you so much Jayland."

The last text message Walker sent his mom arrived at 1 p.m. June 26. "I know you good mom it really all Good love you too," he texted, according to the report.

They talked again at 10:30 p.m. for three minutes, just two hours before he died.

It's unclear what they spoke about.

At 3:36 p.m., about 15 hours after Walker had died, his mother texted him one last time: "Jayland answer your phone!!!!"

'Are you saying this could have been suicide-by-cop?'

Suicide by cop surfaced in the investigation again three days later when Euclid police reached out to Akron police with a tip.

Euclid Capt. Mike Janson said Walkers best friend, Whatley, interviewed for a job there June 29. During the interview, Whatley told Janson and others that Walker had asked him how to get police to shoot him.

Akron Detective Sgt. Tony Starvaggi passed that information on to BCI investigator Cory Momchilov, along with Jansons cellphone number, the report said.

During an interview July 2 with Momchilov, Janson said Whatley opened up after Euclid police asked him why he hadnt applied to work for Akron police.

Whatley went into a discussion about his best friend, like I said he got, a little emotional which is understandable and ahh, hes like, But Im telling you this was a suicide by cop and Im totally on Akron P.D.s side even though its my best friend,  Janson said, according to the report.

Janson and five other commanding Euclid officers were in the room during Whatleys job interview, which was not recorded.

Five of the officers said Whatley described Walker as depressed. The sixth officer, who was admittedly multitasking, could not recall the discussion touching on suicide.

Euclid Chief Scott Meyer told investigators he was the first in the room to broach that theory in the Walker case after reading Whatleys body language.

Are you saying this could have been suicide-by-cop? Meyer asked Whatley, according to the BCI investigative report.

Meyer could not recall exactly what Whatleys response was verbatim, according to the state investigation, but the chief took Whatleys answer to be an affirmative or a yeah, I think so or a maybe, he told investigators.

Akron Capt. Dave Laughlin, along with Deputy Chief Jesse Leeser, was present Oct. 20 when Whatley interviewed for a job with the Akron Police Department, according to the BCI report. During that interview, Laughlin said Whatley again spoke about how his friend, Walker, had asked him previously how would somebody get the police to shoot them.

What did Jayland Walker's best friend tell a BCI investigator?

Momchilov interviewed Whatley in July about Walker and what he may have said during his interview with Euclid police.

Whatley told Momchilov that he and Walker grew up together and wrestled together in high school. Walker wasnt himself since losing his fiancee, Whatley told Momchilov.

Whatley denied ever telling Euclid police that Walker asked him about how to get police to shoot him.

Wrestling coach reacts: Jayland Walker's high school wrestling coach 'truly disappointed' in grand jury decision

No, he never, I never said that, Whatley said. I said that Jayland knew, knew better. But I never said them words. I just said I don't, I don't know what was going on, Whatley said, the report said.

When Euclid police asked him if he thought Walker died by suicide by cop, Whatley told Momchilov he told them he didnt know.

All I know is he was going through some things, and he said a few words, Whatley said, according to the report. And I told him, like, hey, you gotta resources at work, and I can get you in touch with, if you want to just come to my house to just sit, we can sit. We don't even gotta talk to each other. We could just sit. I just told him that he wasn't acting himself, his normal self.

Momchilov then asked Whatley if he thought Walker was suicidal.

I can't say that he was contemplating, Whatley said. I mean, he never asked me about it. He never asked me about it or anything. It's just that's what most people are thinking that it was, that it was suicide by cop. That's what most people are thinking.

Whatley said he hadnt spoken with Walker since June 13. He had called Walker, but Walker didnt call him back, so Whatley said he believed Walker needed some space.

Whatley said he was shocked to find out Walker fired a gun from his car during the fatal police chase.

  (T)hat's shocking, shocking to me if he shot a gun from out of the car, Whatley said, cause that's not Jayland.

Eventually Momchilov asked Whatley, I guess what I'm getting at here is, I mean, is it possible that his, his girlfriend's death, you know, drove him over the edge?

Whatley said he couldn't understand everything his friend was going through.

"I don't know for sure," he said. ''... He'd been through a lot."

Beacon Journal reporter Amanda Garrett can be reached at agarrett@thebeaconjournal.com. Beacon Journal reporter Doug Livingston can be reached at dlivingston@thebeaconjournal.com.

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: What did BCI discover in Akron police shooting death of Jayland Walker?
LightFieldStudios / Getty Images/iStockphoto

With a $65 million price tag, the Gulfstream 650ER is the everyone-whos-anyone plane for the gilded class. Jeff Bezos has one. So does Elon Musk. Compared to the worlds biggest, swankiest and most expensive private jets, it might as well be a toy.

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Some of the worlds most luxurious private planes are owned by heads of state or royalty. Others are owned by outlaw oligarchs or one-percenters who are so secretive that the world knows the plane but not the owner. All, however, put standard-issue private jets to shame. Heres a look at the top four.

Airbus A340-300

Cost: $350 million

Since the start of the war in Ukraine, the world has learned about Russias oligarchs and their inventory of enviable toys. Governments around the world have been scrambling to confiscate their mega-yachts and super planes.

Among them is metal magnate and close Putin ally Alisher Usmanov  one of the richest people in Russia and the world  who is now facing tough sanctions from the U.S. and other countries.

His plane of choice is the Airbus A340-300. According to Private Jet Charter, he paid $230 million for the plane and then spent $170 million tricking it out with amenities such as a luxury dining room and ultra-luxe bedrooms suites.

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Airbus ACJ350 Custom

Cost: $366 million before luxury customization

Lufthansa Technik is a global aircraft services company known for designing the worlds most elite airplane interiors  and the Airbus ACJ350 Custom is the jewel in its crown. According to the Robb Report, its two Rolls-Royce Trent engines can fly up to 12,400 miles on a full tank of gas  literally enough to fly nonstop to anywhere on the planet.

Known unofficially as the flying penthouse, it boasts 2,900 square feet of flexible living space that can be closed off or opened up depending on how much privacy you and your guests need during that specific flight.

Story continues

Theres a VIP bath and bedroom in the front of the plane, as well as an office and a lounge. Theres another lounge in the middle of the plane, along with a formal dining area and a full galley for luxury meal service, with an induction cooking system that wastes no heat. In the back by the tail, theres a full spa where guests can go for massages, steam baths and showers.

Boeing 747-8 VIP

Cost: $418.4 million with unfurnished interior

To capitalize on demand from ultra-wealthy jet-setters who wanted ultra-luxury jumbo jets converted into private planes, Boeing began selling VIP versions of its 737  but even that was too small for one high roller. In 2016, a client  who remains confidential  took delivery of a custom Boeing 747, according to Business Insider. The longest and second-largest airplane ever built, it comes complete with 4,786 square feet of space to hang out in while you fly.

Some of that square footage is dedicated to a stateroom with its own lounge. More goes to an enormous office and conference room. Another section of the plane has a regal master bedroom with adjacent sleeping suites for guests.

Every inch of the plane is built with the finest materials and most cutting-edge components. Those who have been inside one have said that it dwarfs the accommodations of the worlds most luxurious hotels. Each one is custom-built to the exact specifications of the client.

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Air Force One

Cost: $5.3 billion for a pair ($2.65 billion each)

The most famous plane in the world (thanks, Harrison Ford), Air Force One is actually two planes. The new pair, which President Biden will be the first commander-in-chief to ride in, costs $5.3 billion, according to Defense One.

Each of the new Boeing model 747-8 jets costs around $800 million, with the rest of the gargantuan price tag going to a new hangar at Andrews Air Force Base and all of those super-cool and highly classified modifications that have made the plane so famous. They will replace the aging VC-25A models with the new VC-25B models, which are slightly bigger in size.

The so-called presidential configuration is not simple to operate  the 100,000-page owners manual alone costs $84 million. Although it wont be able to refuel mid-air like the current model, the new flying White House will have a range of 5,900 nautical miles, enough to make it to every populated continent from Washington, according to Business Insider. It will be bigger and more fuel-efficient than the current model, but one change will be immediately evident to all who see it: the paintjob will have deeper shades of blue with no polished metal sections.

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Fly in Style: 4 Most Luxurious Private Planes & How Much They Cost
The prosecution says the death of 20-year-old Tyrel Truss of Fresno was the result of a trail of bad decisions that stretched from Sioux City, Iowa, to the west side of Fresno County.

The defense attorney says it was self-defense.

Police said Truss was shot and killed on Sept. 26, 2019 after being lured to Mendota through the MeetMe dating app. He was expecting to party with a 19-year-old woman. But the promise of a romantic liaison turned into a robbery attempt that went sideways.

The alleged shooter, 22-year-old Isaac Helms, is on trial for murder. Three women, Precious Green, 22, Hannah Haywood, 22, and Alexa Ramos, 23, were also involved, and pleaded guilty to second-degree robbery. They were originally charged with murder, but that was dropped in a plea agreement with the district attorneys office.

They are expected to testify against Helms starting Tuesday and into Wednesday.

During his opening statement Monday, prosecutor Daniel Walters said all four defendants knew each other. Helms, Green and Haywood were from Sioux City. Ramos, who is a friend of theirs, used to live there but had recently moved back home to Mendota to go to trade school in Fresno. Haywood was supposed to enroll with her, Walters said.

The three friends from Iowa drove out to Firebaugh to visit Ramos. They were also armed with a .22 caliber pistol they stole from an unlocked car.

Walters said Green and Helms talked about doing a lick or a robbery and came up with the idea of convincing someone through a dating app to meet up at a public park in Mendota.

Truss took the bait and when he got to Mendota, Green asked him if he could give them a ride to Firebaugh. Walters said Truss agreed and they all got into his Chevrolet Trax.

Robbery in Firebaugh

As they arrived in Firebaugh, Walters said Helms told Truss, We are robbing you, give me what you got.

Helms punched Truss in the back of the head and then pistol-whipped him, Walters said.

He (Helms) then fires one time and hits Mr. Truss in the back from one to three feet away, Walters said.

Story continues

Witnesses called Firebaugh police after seeing Truss car driving erratically on Cardella Street between Tucci Street and Landucci Drive. Officer Jesus Molina arrived a short time later and found Truss, still buckled in the drivers seat, leaning partially out of the open car door. Molina called out to him and he did not respond.

He and another officer got Truss out of the car and put him on a flat surface. Molina checked his pulse and found only a faint one.

Self-defense argued

Helms attorney Michael Aed denies that robbery was the intention of any of the defendants. They didnt need any money. One of their relatives had recently sent them money to get home.

Helms also never planned to fire the gun. He did so in self-defense, Aed said.

Aed painted a different scenario of what happened when they were in the car. He said that even before they got into Truss car he made Helms aware he had a gun with him. Once in the car, Aed said, they began to smoke marijuana and playing music loudly.

Truss also began driving erratically, causing Ramos to ask him to stop because she wanted to get out. Helms then hit Truss in the back of the head to force him to stop.

Thats when Truss says to Helms, I am going to (expletive) kill you, and reaches down to grab something, Aed said. Helms then shoots him in the back.

The trial continues Tuesday in Department 50.
Update: the McCurtain Gazette-News has released the full audio.

A newspaper in McCurtain County, Oklahoma has released audio of county leaders discussing plans to kill one of their reporters and lynch Black people.

The audio is the first of three that the McCurtain Gazette-News says it will be releasing. The audio was recorded after a March 6 meeting of the county's board of commissioners.

The Oklahoman has obtained the audio, but has not independently verified the content's authenticity. Here is who can be heard speaking in the over two minutes of dialogue, and a transcript of what was said.

Who is heard on McCurtain County audio?

Sheriff Kevin Clardy

District 2 Commissioner Mark Jennings

District 3 Commissioner Robert Beck

Sheriff's investigator Alicia Manning

Jail administrator Larry Hendrix

Commissioners' secretary Heather Carter

McCurtain County Sheriff Kevin Clardy

The following transcript is distressing. Reader discretion is advised:

Talk of barbecue and burnt bodies

The start of the recording features conversation about a fire that killed Dannette Stoewe. Clardy begins the conversation by discussing the recovery of Stoewe's body.

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Clardy: Anyway, you know we wrap it up in tinfoil to preserve the body and stuff like that. And Dot kept them, all the body, heart, stuff like that. Anyway, Kyler was out there.

Jennings: Oh, body parts? Oh, shed come apart?

Clardy: Yeah. Some burnt bodies. And

Jennings: Yeah, I know. I picked up on that.

Carter: They really fall apart when theyre burnt?

Hendrix: Yeah. You never had barbecue?

Clardy: Thats another thing.

Carter: Yeah?

Hendrix: Same thing.

Beck: Im hungry.

(crosstalk)

Clardy: ... so we get her in the body bag and Kyler goes, you do know what we gotta do now, right? Faith goes, no, what? He goes, you gotta pre-heat the oven 350 degrees, leave her in there for 15 minutes. And she went (vomit sounds, laughter). Bless her heart. It was and then the medical examiner asked her, said hey we're fixing to go eat. And he looked her in the face and said you wanna go with me and go eat barbecue? (laughter)

Story continues

McCurtain_county_map

McCurtain County commissioner Mark Jennings on lynching Black people

The conversation then takes a turn, with Jennings saying he would like to return to a time when lynching was an option.

Jennings: Its like somebody wanting this job, they dont realize, like your job. I heard it the other day, said I heard two or 12 people were going for sheriff. I said fuck, let's get 20. They dont have a goddamn clue what theyre getting into. Not this day and age. Im gonna tell you something. If it was back in the day, when that when Alan Marston would take a damn black guy and whoop their ass and throw him in the cell? Id run for fucking sheriff.

Clardy: Yeah. Well, Its not like that no more.

Jennings: I know. Take them down to Mud Creek and hang them up with a damn rope. But you cant do that anymore. They got more rights than we got.

Alicia Manning, Sheriff's investigator: 'Who would be the bad guy?'

Then, the discussion circles around options of hiring hit men. The group makes mention of Chris Willingham, the Gazette-News reporter who broke the story. Willingham has declined to comment to The Oklahoman, citing ongoing litigation between himself and the sheriff's office.

Manning: What they really don't know is that (crosstalk) ... they are insignificant in my life, really. They bring no (indistinguishable)

Clardy: The old saying is, what goes around goes around. It will. I told you it will.

Jennings: I know where two big deep holes are here if you ever need them.

Clardy: Ive got an excavator.

Jennings: Well, these are already pre-dug.

Jennings: But the thing of it is, you know.

Manning: We actually told the truth.

Jennings: Ive known, Ive known two or three hit men, they're very quiet guys

Manning: Yeah?

Jennings: And would cut no fucking mercy.

Manning: Yeah.

Jennings: In Louisiana. Cause this is all Mafia around here.

Clardy: Oh yeah.

Manning: Yeah, but heres the reality. If a hair on his wifes head, Chris Willinghams head, or any of those people that really were behind that, if any hair on their head got touched by anybody, who would be the bad guy?

Clardy: Who would be blamed for it?

Manning: Yeah.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: McCurtain County Sheriff, Commissioners audio: Lynching, hiring hitmen
Joseph Cress-USA TODAY Sports

The fake GOP electors in Georgia that former President Donald Trump recruited as part of his failed attempt to stay in power are starting to point fingers at each other, court documents revealed on Tuesday.

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis, the Atlanta-area prosecutor whos investigating Trumps effort to upend American democracy there, laid out the details in a legal memo to a state judgeone that hints at criminal indictments to come.

According to the memo, prosecutors in July last year dangled immunity deals for alternate electors who were willing to cooperate with the investigationbut their defense lawyer is now accused of never telling them about the potential deal.

Following a special purpose grand jury recommendation in December that the DA seek indictments against some people involved in the fraudulent scheme, investigators have turned up the pressure.

It turns out, these Republican officials and political operatives are now starting to squirm, identifying illegal behavior by their colleagues while trying to save their own skina sudden pivot that came when Willis investigators met with these fake electors last week.

Wednesday and Friday, some of the electors stated that another elector committed acts that are violations of Georgia law and that they were not party to these additional acts, Willis explained in her court filing.

10 More Fake Georgia Electors Warned They Could Face Criminal Charges

That description means that certain Republicans are now identifying crimes committed by a colleague while distancing themselves from that criminal behavior.

But that situation has created what Willis calls an impracticable and ethical mess, because 10 of these fake electors are being represented by a single Atlanta defense lawyerwho cant possibly advocate for clients who are simultaneously ratting each other out. The DAs office is using those details to make the case that the judge should intervene and disqualify that defense lawyer, Kimberly Bourroughs Debrow, citing a conflict of interest.

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The DA also accused Debrow of highly unethical behavior, noting how several fake electors interviewed last week revealed that theyd never been told about the potential immunity dealsbecause Debrow never conveyed the message. The DA said that failure is in direct conflict with what Debrows fellow defense lawyer, Holly A. Pierson, told the judge in August last year.

Debrow, a former local prosecutor in a neighboring county, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Pierson, a former federal prosecutor, called the allegations entirely false and said the court has documents that undermine the DAs previous attempts to disqualify the defense lawyers.

Sadly, the DA's office continues to seem more interested in media attention, trampling on the constitutional rights of presumptively innocent citizens, and recklessly defaming its perceived opponents than in the facts, the law, or the truth, Pierson said in a statement.

The DAs filing on Tuesday is the first indication of who exactly will get hit with criminal charges when Willis seeks an indictment through an Atlanta grand jurywhich is expected in the coming weeks.

Debrow represents 10 of the 11 fake electors in question. That list includes Mark Amick, Joseph Brannan, Brad Carver, Vikki Consiglio, John Downey, Carolyn Fish, Kay Godwin, Cathy Latham, Shawn Still and Chandra C.B. Yadav.

Fulton County DA Wants to Hear From Mark Meadows and Sidney Powell Over 2020 Election Interference

The list is a whos who of Georgia politics. Amick, Consiglio, and Still have been members of the Georgia Republican Foundation, a fundraising group that attends VIP dinners and touts connections to Trump and his associates. Carver is a lobbyist who serves as the GOPs chairman in Georgia's 11th congressional district. Brannan is the states GOP treasurer. Fisher is the state GOPs first vice chairwoman. Godwin is an activist who founded Georgia Conservatives in Action. Yadav worked on Kelly Loefflers failed Senate bid.

Meanwhile, Latham was previously the top GOP official in a rural Georgia County who coordinated a secret operation to have conspiracy theorists examine local election system computers in early 2021one that was exposed by The Daily Beast and is now under investigation.

During an hour-long interview last year, she lied repeatedly about her role in putting together the covert mission, which involved having computer forensics experts charter a private plane to the small town and enter a county building to tap into government servers. But text messages and public records revealed she was central to orchestrating the plan.

Now that some of these Republicans seem willing to expose their colleagues roles in the fake elector scheme, Debrows connections to them poses a serious risk to the fundamental principle of confidentiality of information, the DA argued. Willis asked Judge Robert C.I. McBurney to block Debrow from any further participation in the case, given that she knows too much already about what others have done.

Willis is leading what is widely considered the most clear-cut criminal investigation of Trumps Big Lie in 2020, when he used his presidential campaign and lawyers to conduct an all-out assault on the nations elections system. Her investigation initially focused on Trumps menacing Jan. 2, 2021 phone call to Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, where he pressured the elections official to find 11,780 votes. That investigation has since expanded to review the actions across the state to undermine the 2020 elections there.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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An appeal by American journalist Evan Gershkovich against his pretrial detention on espionage charges in Russia was rejected Tuesday by a Moscow court. The U.S. government and Gershkovich's employer, The Wall Street Journal, strenuously deny the charges against him.

Gershkovich, the first U.S. journalist to be detained in Russia since the Cold War, was taken into custody while reporting in the Russian city of Yekaterinburg on March 29. He could face up to 20 years in prison if convicted on espionage charges.

US journalist Evan Gershkovich, arrested on espionage charges, stands inside a defendants' cage before a hearing to consider an appeal on his arrest at the Moscow City Court in Moscow on April 18, 2023. / Credit: NATALIA KOLESNIKOVA/AFP via Getty Images

The U.S. government declared Gershkovich "wrongfully detained" about a week ago, meaning a designated office within the U.S. State Department will lead efforts to secure his release.

"I can only say how troubling it was to see Evan, an innocent journalist, held in these circumstances," U.S. Ambassador to Russia Lynne Tracy, who was permitted to visit Gershkovich in Moscow's Lefortovo prison for the first time on Monday, told journalists outside the Moscow courthouse after Tuesday's ruling. "We will continue to provide all available support to Evan and his family, and we expect Russian authorities to provide continued consular access to Evan. The charges against Evan are baseless, and we call on the Russian federation to immediately release him."

"While we expected this development, it is nonetheless disappointing," Wall Street Journal publisher Almar Latour and editor-in-chief Emma Tucker said in a joint statement. "Evan is wrongfully detained and the charges of espionage against him are false. We demand his immediate release and are doing everything in our power to secure it." They said the next hearing for Gershkovich is scheduled for late May.

Gershkovich's lawyers told journalists after Tuesday's ruling that he was in "good spirits" and was grateful for the "huge support" he was receiving.

President Biden has condemned Gershkovich's detention and spoke to his parents last week.

Story continues

"We're making it real clear that it's totally illegal what's happening, and we declared it so," Mr. Biden said.

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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!
For many Palestinians, the journey to one of Islams most sacred sites on the holiest night of Ramadan begins in a dust-choked, garbage-strewn maelstrom
(Bloomberg) -- Adani Groups pile of debt increased almost 21% over the past year and the proportion held by global banks rose to nearly a third, according to data seen by Bloomberg that offers an up-to-date snapshot of its financial health.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Information gleaned from people familiar with the conglomerates inner workings as well as from presentations to investors reveal 29% of its borrowings were with global international banks at the end of March  a category that didnt feature on the groups list of creditors seven years ago.

Yet the data also show a metric for its ability to pay off its debts improved.

The shifting state of its finances and creditor mix underscores just how swiftly billionaire Gautam Adanis group, based in the Indian state of Gujarat, has grown and how connected it has become internationally, with business interests as far away as Australia and Israel.

But with that worldwide engagement comes heightened scrutiny, such as it faced when US shortseller Hindenburg Research accused it of extensive corporate fraud.

Despite Adani executives repeatedly denying the allegations and seeking to reassure investors with in-person meetings and repaying debt, the conglomerates stocks and dollar bonds have yet to fully recover from the selloff caused by Hindenburg.

That suggests the group may have to pay more to raise money down the road, though an improving debt ratio might help counter any increase. Two global rating firms have said they will closely watch Adani entities ability to raise funds.

Here are some details on how the conglomerates finances stacked up as of the end of last month. A spokesman for Adani Group did not immediately comment when contacted by Bloomberg about the figures.

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Adani firms have over the past few years improved on a key metric measuring a companys ability to service its liabilities, according to the data seen by Bloomberg. The ratio of net debt to run-rate earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization was about 3.2 in the 2023 fiscal year, which ended in March. Thats down from what an Adani report from last September showed to be 7.6 in 2013.

Run-rate Ebitda is calculated by an extrapolation of a firms recent financial performance.

Adani Group was looking to reduce its debt further, according to the data.

Concerns about Adani finances started making headlines last year, when research firm CreditSights termed it deeply overleveraged. The group countered the claim by saying companies had reduced their debt burden.

Gross debt at seven main listed Adani firms rose 20.7% to 2.3 trillion rupees ($28 billion) as of March 31, according to the people familiar with the matter, who asked not to be named because they werent authorized to speak publicly about it. The borrowings have risen steadily since 2019, as the conglomerate expanded at breakneck speed.

Fallout from Hindenburgs report, published in late January, has resulted in Adani Group rescaling its grand ambitions, dialing back on petrochemicals, aluminum, steel and road projects while focusing on its core areas that include ports, power and green energy, Bloomberg reported last month.

The most recent data seen by Bloomberg give a sense of creditor exposure. Bonds accounted for 39% of the groups borrowings as of end March, up from 14% in 2016.

Still, local borrowings can be sizable. State Bank of India, the nations top lender by assets, had an exposure of about 270 billion rupees ($3.3 billion) to the group, its chairman said in February.

Moodys Investors Service in February flagged the risk of a jump in funding costs and refinancing needs worth billions of dollars in the next few years.

But a spokesman for the conglomerate told Bloomberg earlier this month theres no material refinancing risk and that near-term liquidity requirements are comfortable because there are no big debt repayments due in coming months.

The upside of Adanis growth and diversification has been a steadily increasing pile of assets  a more than doubling in five years. The first-generation entrepreneur started off as a diamond trader in the 1980s and was until recently Asias richest man. He built his empire on the ports and coal trading and in the past few years expanded into airports, renewable energy, data centers, cement and media.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Advocate says changes to WA Death with Dignity law will help families
Solar panels at the Bullitt Center in Seattle last September. (Daniel Kim / The Seattle Times, 2022)
The Emerald of Siam in Richland, Wash., as seen on Google Streetview.
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SUDBURY, ON, April 18, 2023 /CNW/ - Frontier Lithium Inc. (TSXV: FL) (FRA: HL2) (OTCQX: LITOF) ("Frontier" or "the Company") today announced that Mr. Tony Zheng, who has served as CFO, will be leaving the Company due to personal reasons effective April 27, 2023.

Frontier Lithium Inc. Logo (CNW Group/Frontier Lithium Inc.)

Frontier has appointed Mr. John Didone, a long-time member of its Board of Directors, as the Acting Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Zheng will provide advisory services for a period of time to support Mr. Didone and ensure a smooth transition. Mr. Didone will hold this position until a replacement has been appointed.

Trevor Walker, Chief Executive Officer, said, "On behalf of the Company, I would like to thank Tony for his short but impactful service as CFO and wish him all the best going forward."

Mr. Didone was a Partner at SRWC LLP, Chartered Professional Accountants based out of Sudbury, Canada. He has been with the firm since 1980 and over this time has gained considerable insight of business affairs, in particular his demonstrated experience offering professional advice on the expansion of national companies. Mr. Didone is in familiar with Frontier's strategic goals, staged growth strategy and has experience working with mining and construction sectors. He graduated from Laurentian University's Commerce program earning an H.B.Com and maintains designations and/or certifications as a CPA, CA, CMA.

About Frontier Lithium

Frontier Lithium is a preproduction business with an objective to become a strategic domestic supplier of spodumene concentrates for industrial users as well as battery-grade lithium hydroxide and other chemicals to the growing electric vehicle and energy storage markets in North America. The Company maintains the largest land position and resource in a premium lithium mineral district located in Ontario's Great Lakes region.

About PAK Lithium Project

The PAK lithium project contains one of North America's highest-grade lithium resources. The project encompasses close to 27,000 hectares and remains largely unexplored; however, since 2013, the company has delineated two premium spodumene-bearing lithium deposits (PAK and Spark), located 2.3 kilometres apart. Exploration is continuing on the project through two other spodumene-bearing discoveries: the Bolt pegmatite (located between the PAK and Spark deposits), as well as the Pennock pegmatite (25 kilometres northwest of PAK deposit within the project claims). A 2021 preliminary economic assessment (National Instrument 43-101 technical report titled "NI 43-101 Technical Report, Pak Property, PAK, Red Lake Mining District, Ontario, Canada" by BBA E&C Inc., with an effective date of April 5, 2021) delivered a fully integrated lithium operation, including the mine and mill and the conversion plant for production of battery-quality lithium salts.

Story continues

Forward-looking Statements

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". All statements in this release, other than statements of historical facts, that address future production, reserve potential, exploration drilling, exploitation activities and events or developments that the Company expects are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward looking statements include market prices, exploitation and exploration successes, continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market or business conditions. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and those actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. For more information on the Company, Investors should review the Company's registered filings available at sedar.com.

SOURCE Frontier Lithium Inc.

Cision

View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/April2023/18/c4952.html
Deal based on turnaround time and repair capability

EVENDALE, Ohio, April 18, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--GE Aerospace has signed an agreement with AJW Group to support avionics and electrical power systems across the B777, B737 and A320/30/40 family of aircraft. The contract will start this year and will cover all AJW Groups Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) customers that fly the B777, B737 and A320/30/40 family of aircraft.

"We are committed to supporting our MRO customers' growing demands," said John Haigh, Electrical Power and Controls leader at Cheltenham for GE Aerospace. "As airlines continue to expand their fleets, weve taken aggressive actions to strengthen lead time, supply availability and delivery for our customers."

GE Aerospace was selected for the three-year agreement based on turnaround time (TAT) and repair capability. GE Aerospace will service the systems at their repair and maintenance location in Cheltenham, United Kingdom.

Some of the systems included in the agreement are:

Electrical Load Management Systems

Flight Management Systems

Data Control Display Units

"We are pleased to be collaborating with GE Aerospace on avionics and electrical power systems for the B777, B737 and A320/30/40 family of aircraft," said Barry Swift, Senior Vice President Operations at AJW Group. "The contract with GE Aerospace exemplifies AJWs strategy and commitment to providing our customers in Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) with seamless supply chain management, the highest quality of component repairs and impressive turnaround times to meet the demands that operators need to maximise their operations."

About AJW Group

AJW Group is the world-leading independent aircraft component parts, repair, and supply chain solutions provider, transforming efficiency in commercial, business, and defense aviation. AJW has a global presence with operational hubs and local offices across Africa, Asia Pacific, China, CIS, Europe, Latin America, Middle East, and North America. A key part of AJW Group is AJW Technique, a 220,000 sq. ft state-of-the-art Component MRO facility based in Montreal. www.ajw-group.com

Story continues

About GE Aerospace

GE Aerospace is a world-leading provider of jet engines, components, avionics, and electrical power systems for commercial and military aircraft with a global service network to support these offerings. GE Aerospace and its joint ventures have an installed base of more than 40,000 commercial and 26,000 military aircraft engines, and the business is playing a vital role in shaping the future of flight.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230418006187/en/

Contacts

Media contact:

Jennifer Villarreal

+1 616 617 7755

jennifer.villarreal3@ge.com
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- Over 30 tonnes of plastic waste from Greece bound for Romanian commercial companies were stopped at the Giurgiu border-check point because the shipments were not accompanied by cross-border transfer documents."At the Giurgiu Border Crossing Point, on the way into Romania, two road vehicles consisting

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- Arad border police caught 47 migrants from several countries hiding in a lorry driven by a Turkish citizen and a van driven by a Romanian, trying to leave the country illegally.The lorry was checked at the Nadlac II Border Crossing Point and the Turkish driver declared that he was transporting "various

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Republican lawmakers on Tuesday slammed U.S. Securities and Exchange Chairman Gary Genslers approach to regulating the crypto world.

At a Tuesday hearing in front of the GOP-controlled House Financial Services Committee, the top regulator hinted that the fast-moving digital asset industry was hard to keep up with.

But lawmakers furiously attacked Gensler for not being clearer with his rulemaking. Rep. Tom Emmer (R-MN) was particularly aggressive and claimed that U.S. tech companies were suffering as a result.

Youve been an incompetent cop on the beat, he said, before claiming that Gensler was pushing American firms into the hands of the CCP (Chinese Communist Party.)

He added: During your tenure at the SEC, how many rules has the SEC finalized that actually accommodate the existing regulatory framework and are specifically for the digital asset industry so that the crypto market can come into compliance?

He then cut off the regulator. The answer is zero, he said.

And hes pushing innovation into the hands of a communist country, the United States number one adversary: pic.twitter.com/lE0Q4TuhYa  Tom Emmer (@GOPMajorityWhip) April 18, 2023

Before the hearing, lawmakers dropped an open letter criticizing the SEC for a lack of clear rules for crypto companies.

Following the collapse of mega digital asset exchange FTX last year, the SEC has quickly targeted major U.S. crypto brands.

Gensler, who took the job in 2021, claims that most coins and tokens fall under the securities definition, but many claim that the body is overstepping its authority.

In January, it hit Genesis and Gemini with charges for offering unregistered securities. A month later, it fined crypto exchange Kraken $30 million for violating securities laws.

Then, last month, the Commission issued a Wells Notice to Coinbase, Americas biggest crypto exchange, alleging that its staking products constitute unregistered securities.

Story continues

And in its latest action yesterday, it alleged Seattle-based exchange Bittrex failed to comply with securities law by not registering with the financial watchdog in several areas. The body further claimed that major cryptocurrencies Dash and Algorand had characteristics that resembled securities.

Every Crypto Project Must Reckon With the SEC's Howey Test

These actions have some politiciansRepublicans in particularseething, with some claiming that the regulators crypto stance will stifle innovation in the U.S.

The regulator today responded by saying he could use more manpower when regulating the crypto industry.

In terms of digital assets, we could certainly use more resources, he said. Definitely there are more things to look at and investigate than we have people on the staff to do.
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- The President of Argentina, Alberto Fernandez, said on Tuesday that he wants the bilateral relationship with Romania to be strengthened."We have a deep connection and we can make it even better, because both countries have a lot to offer each other and to improve the situation. (...) I want to work

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- President Klaus Iohannis, who is on an official visit to Brazil for two days, met on Wednesday with the vice-governor of the state of Rio de Janeiro, Thiago Pampolha Goncalves, and with the vice-mayor of the city, Nilton Caldeira. Fii la curent cu cele mai noi stiri. Urmareste stiripesurse.ro

- The National Weather Administration (ANM) has extended a rain warning throughout Wednesday, April 19.According to meteorologists, in the next three days there will be rain in most parts of the country. Local water quantities of 15...20 l/m2 and over 30...40 l/m2 will accumulate on Monday (April 17)

- A wooden icon dating from the time of Voivode Matei Basarab (1580 - 1654) and a charcoal sketch of an icon by painter Stefan Luchian (1868 - 1916) dominated the sacred art auction organized on April 11 by Artmark."The Crucifixion of the Lord" painted in the style of the traditional Greek school represents

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- President Klaus Iohannis will pay a two-day official visit to the Republic of Azerbaijan, in Baku, on Thursday and Friday, at the invitation of President Ilham Aliyev, on which occasion he will hold political consultations with his Azerbaijani counterpart on the development of bilateral cooperation
Trenul fulger, ajuns in statia CTE

RESITA  Modernizarea caii ferate Resita-Voiteni-Timisoara Aeroport este la Comisia Tehnico-Economica (CTE) de la Timisoara. Metroul S.A. si-a facut treaba la timp si a finalizat studiul de fezabilitate care va trebui validat de comisia amintita! Motiv pentru care primarul Ioan Popa a discutat cu seful Regionalei CFR Timisoara [citeste mai departe]
High risk of avalanche in Bucegi Mts. at altitudes above 1,800 m Forecasters warn that there is a high risk of avalanche in the Bucegi Mts. at altitudes above 1,800 meters, while below this altitude the avalanche danger is listed as moderate. On a scale from one to five, high risk means a level 4 amount of danger, while a moderate risk is equivalent to level 2, told Agerpres. Fii la curent cu cele mai noi stiri. Urmareste stiripesurse.ro pe Facebook stiripesurse.ro  .ro  Help your friends know more about Romania! Share this article on Facebook Share this article!  NEWSLETTER   NEWSLETTER  Am citit si Citeste articolul mai departe pe stiripesurse.ro

Sursa articol si foto: stiripesurse.ro

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- The Ministry of Health informs on Monday that, between March 13 and 19, 7,483 new cases of people infected with SARS-CoV-2 were registered.According to the quoted source, 2,455 of the cases registered in the last week were in reinfected patients, tested positive more than 90 days after the first

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- Sanitas Federation unionists on Wednesday set off on a march to the headquarters of Romania's main political parties, as part of the protest actions healthcare and social assistance workers have been staging since this Monday. Fii la curent cu cele mai noi stiri. Urmareste stiripesurse.ro

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- President Iohannis to end South American tour with official visit to Argentina.Romanian President Klaus Iohannis makes an official visit to Argentina on Tuesday, the last leg in his South American tour that will end on Wednesday, told Agerpres. Fii la curent cu cele mai noi stiri. Urmareste

- Today, Romania's President Klaus Iohannis will pay an official visit to Sofia, Bulgaria, at the invitation of his Bulgarian counterpart Rumen Radev to sign a joint statement on a strategic partnership between the two countries, told Agerpres. Fii la curent cu cele mai noi stiri. Urmareste

- President Klaus Iohannis began his state visit to the Republic of Singapore on Friday morning, being welcomed by his counterpart Halimah Yacob at the Istana Presidential Palace. Fii la curent cu cele mai noi stiri. Urmareste stiripesurse.ro pe Facebook stiripesurse.ro  Help

- President Klaus Iohannis will pay an official visit to Japan and a state visit to the Republic of Singapore, between 6 and 10 March, the Presidential Administration informed. Fii la curent cu cele mai noi stiri. Urmareste stiripesurse.ro pe Facebook stiripesurse.ro  Help

- President Klaus Iohannis stated on Tuesday that women have a major contribution in terms of including on the public agenda some essential topics such as climate change and energy transition and underscored that their endorsement in getting involved in the public and professional life must be permanent,

- President Klaus Iohannis participated on Tuesday in the video-conference with President of the European Council Charles Michel and a group of European leaders, in the preparatory meeting for the special European Council, which takes place on Thursday and Friday in Brussels. Fii la curent cu

- President Klaus Iohannis stated on Friday that Romania is an important producer of hydrocarbures in Europe at this moment and that our country intends to further strengthen this role by further developing the gas reserves in the Black Sea, told Agerpres. Fii la curent cu cele mai noi stiri.

- Foreign Affairs Minister Bogdan Aurescu had a phone conversation on Tuesday with his Latvian counterpart Edgars Rinkevics, with the main topic of discussion being the process of Romania's accession to Schengen, the Foreign Affairs Ministry (MAE) informed in a release sent to AGERPRES. Fii
A Hungarian drug dealer on the TOP 50 list of most wanted criminals has been detained in Scotland, the Hungarian police said on its website.

An international warrant was issued against the 49-year-old defendant last year after he had failed to turn up to start serving a five year and six months prison sentence.



The man was apprehended in Dunfermline.
A production line for the manufacture of ammunition for Kalashnikov rifles imported from Turkey five years ago has gone missing, news website 24 learned from Csaba Papp, the owner of the importing company.

Borsodi Altalanos Gepgyar (BSGEP) bought the ammunition manufacturing machine in 2018, but lost its trade license for military technology, so it had to place the production line in the NAV customs warehouse, from where it has disappeared.



Papp, was informed by NAV that the machine had already been "taken out" from the customs warehouse in 2018.



Because of this, Papp filed a complaint for embezzlement and abuse of official position by the Budapest Government Office which may order the removal of stock from the warehouse.



There is great interest in ammunition nowadays, as Ukraine is constantly struggling with a shortage of ammunition, and the EU has also announced that production capacities should be expanded.



Working in three shifts, the machine can produce 75 million cartridges a year, meaning Ft 52 billion.



As the production cost is low, at around 0.30, the owner of the machine could expect an annual profit of Ft 44 billion.
nuclear germany

Elon Musk is rarely short of an opinion or two and, true to form, this time last year he weighed in on Germanys highly fraught energy debate. The country was phasing out its nuclear power plants. Was this, he was asked, a good idea?

Short answer: hell, no!This is total madness. I want to be clear: total madness, the billionaire entrepreneur told Die Welt. In my opinion, Germany should not only not shut down the nuclear power plants, it should reopen the ones that are shut down.

The interview occurred just a couple of months after Russia had invaded Ukraine and Musks critique basically came in two parts: Germanys decision to shun nuclear power would be bad for the environment and bad for geopolitical stability. Listen, playtime is over, okay, he said. Its a national security risk to shut these things down.

Its hard to disagree. Unfortunately, Germany did. Over the weekend the last remaining nuclear power plants in the country were switched off. To do this with Vladimir Putin's troops still in Ukraine is a case study in irrational fear trumping a proper appraisal of risk.

The energy trilemma that countries face is how to maintain energy security and reduce emissions while keeping costs down. Germany is failing on all three fronts.

The countrys environmentalists believe they have won a great victory; they may actually end up setting their cause back by a generation. A public backlash was starting to build even as the mothballs were being readied.

Thirty years ago only 3pc of the population was in favour of building new nuclear plants. A similar survey conducted by Der Spiegel last August found that 41pc of Germans were in favour of new plants and over two-thirds wanted the lives of existing plants to be extended by at least five years.

That's quite the turn-around. Perceptions about the risk of nuclear energy, especially in Germany, are strongly influenced by two accidents: Chernobyl in 1986, and Fukushima in 2011.

Story continues

The first accident resulted in a radioactive cloud heading towards Germany just as anti-nuclear sentiment was building in the country. The second sparked protests that persuaded Angela Merkel, a trained physicist who had previously been a vocal advocate of atomic power, to bring forward the phaseout of nuclear power plants from 2036 to 2022.

Nuclear power is far from perfect. Its expensive to build new plants and there are still questions about what to do with the radioactive waste that is generated (although there have been significant technological advances). But it's not dangerous.

Chernobyl and Fukushima were tragic events and viscerally scary but the number of deaths they caused was a rounding error compared to those that are caused each and every year by fossil fuel emissions.

If you add up all the deaths caused by each energy source - including from air pollution and accidents throughout the supply chain - brown coal (the grubbiest kind) is responsible for 32.72 deaths per terawatt hour, while standard coal accounts for 24.62 deaths, according to Our World in Data.

By contrast, nuclear power is responsible for just 0.03 deaths per terawatt hour. Thats a touch more than solar (0.02 deaths) and a little less than wind (0.04 deaths).

One terawatt hour is roughly the amount of electricity consumed by 150,000 citizens in a developed country each year. So, another way of putting these numbers into context is to imagine two European towns each with 150,000 residents: Smogstadt gets all of its energy from coal while Atomville is entirely served by nuclear power.

In these hypothetical conurbations you would expect, on average, 25 people a year to die prematurely in Smogstadt; meanwhile there would be just one premature death every 33 years in Atomville (by which time Smogstadts overworked undertaker would have planted an extra 825 residents).

Now, imagine voluntarily deciding to move from Atomville to Sootstadt. And yet that is, in effect, what Germany has just done. Yes, the country is also rushing to expand its renewable energy capacity. But theres no getting around the fact that, in the short term at least, the closure of nuclear power plants will result in more fossil fuels getting burnt.

Germany has had to recommission 20 coal-fired plants in the last 12 months alone to provide the necessary baseload power to help deal with fluctuations in wind and solar power production. Meanwhile, business leaders are warning that high energy prices in Germany risk forcing many companies  especially the kind of energy-intensive manufacturers for which the country is rightly famed  into bankruptcy.

And this is just the quantitative impact of the wrong-headed decision. Much harder to measure is the effect on geopolitics. Having started to wind down nuclear power after Fukushima, Germany was importing more than half of its natural gas from Russia before Putin ordered his troops to invade Ukraine.

The result was soaring energy prices and warnings about blackouts. But Europes dependency on Russian hydrocarbons is also likely to have figured in Putins calculations when deciding whether to march on Kyiv in the first place.

It can be no coincidence that central and eastern European nations have taken the far more pragmatic view that atomic power is the best way to ensure energy independence while also lowering carbon emissions.

On Monday, Europes first new nuclear power plant in 16 years was opened. Where? Finland, which shares a border with Russia and has been prompted by Putins aggression to seek membership of Nato.

These countries are aware that energy and security are indivisible. Time for Germany to wise up too.

And, before we indulge in too much schadenfreude, it's worth remembering that the UK hasnt actually completed the building of a new nuclear power plant since 1995. Until very recently we thought it was a clever wheeze to get the Chinese to help finance or build all future projects.

Elon Musk said it last year but it bears repeating: Playtime is over.
The EP group of ruling Fidesz strongly condemns the invitation of opposition Jobbik leader and MEP Marton Gyongyosi to a Passover dinner by the US ambassador to Hungary, group leader Tamas Deutsch said in a letter sent to fellow EP representatives.

In his letter, Deutsch called Gyongyosis invitation to the Jewish Passover Seder hosted by David Pressman a tasteless provocation and a shocking diplomatic and public scandal, a Fidesz group statement said.



Deutsch said that Gyongyosi as a representative of the far-right Jobbik party, had made an unprecedented anti-Semitic statement in the Hungarian parliament and later as Jobbik vice-president, participated as an observer in the illegal pro-Putin referendum in the separatist provinces of south-eastern Ukraine, in Donetsk, which was unanimously condemned by Western countries.



David Pressmans insensitivity reveals that the US ambassador in Budapest is so biased against the Hungarian government that neither the Jobbik leaders anti-Semitism, nor his active pro-Putin stance, nor the sensitivity of the Jewish community in Hungary, prevent him from seating Marton Gyongyosi at the table with Jewish leaders on a Jewish holiday, he said.



Deutsch said that the ambassadors behaviour is even more incomprehensible given that the ambassadors of the United States of America are treated with the highest respect in Hungary and are regarded by the government and the governing parties as representatives of one of the countrys most important allies.



He said that Pressmans blunder is compounded by the fact that Marton Gyongyosi was the only politician present at the dinner, which means that by inviting him he gave a kind of privileged status to the anti-Semitic party leader, at the same time legitimising the anti-Semitic manifestations of Jobbik and Gyongyosi.



He said that the group considers Pressmans behaviour to be distasteful and seriously provocative, and we place it among the actions of the US Democratic administration, which, despite our alliance, is increasingly openly attacking our conservative Christian-democratic governments anti-war position as well as its prioritisation of Hungarian national interests.



Deutsch said that the Jewish denominations in Hungary united in condemning Ambassador Pressmans blatant gesture, which demonstrates his total political blindness, and confirmed their disassociation from the Jobbik party and its representatives.



In line with our political position of rejecting any attempt at external intervention in the European Union, we condemn Pressmans tasteless provocation in the strongest terms, he said.



Photo courtesy: U.S. Embassy Budapest
Authorities arrested a Lincoln man after a vehicle and foot chase on Interstate 80.

Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol, with assistance from Seward County Sheriffs Deputies, arrested the driver of the vehicle, Edwin Portillo Barrientos, 27, and located a missing juvenile following the pursuit on Sunday evening.

According to the state patrol, at approximately 8:40 p.m. Sunday, a trooper observed an eastbound Honda Civic speeding on I-80 near Bradshaw, at mile marker 345. The trooper attempted a traffic stop, but Portillo Barrientos allegedly refused to yield and accelerated to over 100 miles per hour. The trooper initiated a pursuit.

Another trooper was able to successfully deploy stop sticks to bring the vehicle to a stop near mile marker 383. The driver and front seat passenger then fled on foot, running across the westbound lanes of I-80, the patrol said. Both were taken into custody by additional troopers and Seward County deputies. A second passenger remained in the vehicle and was taken into custody without incident. The vehicle was determined to be stolen.

Portillo Barrientos was arrested on suspicion of driving with a revoked license, flight to avoid arrest, willful reckless driving, theft by receiving stolen property $5,000+ and multiple outstanding warrants, the patrol said. He was taken to York County Jail.

The passenger who fled, a 17-year-old girl, had been reported missing. She was lodged at the Lancaster County Youth Attention Center for an outstanding warrant. The second passenger was cited for possession of drug paraphernalia and released.

The pursuit lasted approximately 22 minutes, according to the patrol.
On Wednesday, Nov. 16, 2011 at 6:12 p.m., Gary and Shari Peters faced a parents ultimate nightmare. They stood at their sons deathbed. His heart had stopped beating. Dr. Gordon confirmed Jacobs death and asked the couple if they were ready to turn off the ventilator.

I looked across the bed at Shari and we both nodded in agreement and the machine was turned off and Jacob was perfectly still. My son was gone, Gary wrote in the journal he kept during his sons cancer journey and later published into a book, Stronger  The Jacob Peters Story.

Lymphoma took Jacobs life far too early. Still, today, his life lives on through his parents who are looking at each other and saying, We cant give up.

Nebraska has the highest pediatric cancer rate west of Pennsylvania, Gary said, quoting data from the Centers of Disease Control. We want to help people who are trying to really move the needle in some way and find solutions.

We dont want anyone else to go through this like we did, Shari said adamantly. If we can change someones life, its all worth it. Its terribly sad but true, everyone will know a pediatric cancer victim in their lifetime.

Moving the needle has meant dedicating their lives to helping increase pediatric cancer research and exposing information about environmental issues (both human-induced and naturally occurring) causing cancer across all age groups. Gary and Shari, along with Dr. Don Coulter of the University of Nebraska Medical Center, will be among the many presenters and guests seeking to find solutions to help make rural communities and farms and ranches healthier for future generations at the June 28-29 Graze Master Group event: Historic Roots for Agricultures Future to be held at Harvest Hall in Seward.

How do we make better decisions in life without information? Gary posed the question. We found synergy with the Graze Master Group because they are willing to seek new information and have members who are changing their farms and ranches because of this new information. Theres a Jerry Rice quote that says, Today I will do what others wont, so tomorrow I can do what others cant. Thats what everyone is trying to do in these efforts. Its about people doing what other people wont and not being afraid of changing. It takes people who are open-minded and willing to accept these problems exist and that we can actually do something about them.

Doing something is what compels Gary and Shari every day, Shortly after Jacob passed, there was a letter writing campaign to the Nebraska Unicameral to encourage them to set money aside for pediatric cancer research. I said, I can get on board with that.

Before that time, Gary and Shari were shocked there was no pediatric cancer research going on in the state of Nebraska. They also pointed out that currently, only around four percent of funding nationwide goes to pediatric cancer research with 96 percent going to research of adult cancers. They noted most research is focused on curing cancer and not the causes. Lack of research is one of the many issues that inspired the fruition of the Pediatric Cancer Action Network (PCAN) in 2013, when 18-month-old Leyna Ahlschwede was diagnosed with Stage IV High Risk Neuroblastoma. In September of that year, Karri and Mitch Ahlschwede started a pediatric cancer awareness campaign that continues today in a host of impactful ways.

Sometimes it can be a very lonely experience, Shari admitted about their journey to ignite change and share new information. But, we have to keep showing up.

That is why our mission will continue to be sharing Jacobs story, raising awareness of the plight of families fighting pediatric cancer, and raising money for the Pediatric Cancer Action Network, Gary added.

Its about asking ourselves the question, Have I thought about what I am doing and thought about the consequences? Gary said about the opportunity to do so at the June Graze Master Group Event. If you havent thought about it, youre just hitting the easy button, and perhaps missing there could be a better way. Learn more at: www.grazemastergroup.com/events.
Air Mauritius Passengers has announced it will resume its flight services to Delhi from May 3, which were discontinued due to the pandemic. The airline currently operates six weekly direct flights to Mumbai. The bi-weekly flight services to Delhi will be operated with a 254-seater Airbus A330 aircraft in two-class configuration -- business and economy, Air Mauritius said in a statement. The Mauritius-Delhi flight will be of 7.30 hours, it added.

"We are excited to resume our operations in Delhi after three years of absence. India and Mauritius share a special relationship that is built on the foundation of people-to-people ties," said KuEko, CEO of Air Mauritius.

This April, Air Mauritius commemorated 50 years of its presence in India, KuEko said, adding that new avenues are being explored with Air India to offer seamless connectivity via Delhi and Mumbai to/from several destinations in India.

The long-awaited flight from Delhi to Mauritius is a major milestone facilitating travellers from the northern part of India to commute, which will boost demand, said Arvind Bundhun, Director of the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority.

"We foresee a steep rise in the footfalls on our land," he added.
New Delhi: Ranbir Kapoor and Bobby Deol have wrapped up the UK schedule of their upcoming film Animal. Yes, you heard it right. A video from the sets has been doing the rounds in which actors Ranbir Kapoor and Bobby Deol are seen celebrating the end of the film`s UK schedule. The duo looked super happy as they cut the cake together. Both the stars have grown their beard for their roles in Animal, which is directed by Arjun Reddy fame director Sandeep Reddy Vanga.

Recently, Bobby shared a video of him working out for his character. He dropped the video in which he is seen doing dumbbell lateral raises. `Animal` also stars Anil Kapoor and Rashmika Mandanna. On December 31, 2022, the makers unveiled Ranbir`s fierce look from the film. Sharing the picture, Rashmika wrote, "Animal first look is here. So, so excited for you all to see this look." In the first look poster, Ranbir Kapoor looks deadly as he holds an axe in his hand. Animal`s first look has Ranbir Kapoor holding an axe in his hand. The film has also been filmed in Himachal Pradesh and actor Saif Ali Khan`s Pataudi Palace near Delhi. It will be out on August 11, 2023.

Watch the video here

Meanwhile, Ranbir Kapoor was last seen in Luv Ranjans Tu Jhoothi Main Makkaar alongside Shraddha Kapoor. Animal is slated to release at the same time as Alia Bhatts Hollywood debut Heart Of Stone. However, the latter will release on OTT platform Netflix while Animal will be a theatrical release. Bobby Deol, on the other hand, was last seen in 'Love Hostel' alongside Vikrant Massey and Sanya Malhotra.

(With ANI inputs)
New Delhi: The economic panorama of the world is ever-changing. Businessman Uday Kotak posted a graphic of the top 10 global companies today on Twitter, notably omitting any Indian, Chinese, or European firms. He also made note of the fact that nine out of the ten listed businesses are American. This raises the question of whether forecasts of American decline are accurate, he argued.

Top 10 global businesses by value. 1 Saudi, 9 Americans. No Indian, Chinese, or European business. American collapse predictions are premature, right? Kotak Mahindra Bank's CEO tweeted. (Also Read: Apple Launches 1st Retail Store In Mumbai: Check Five Lesser-Known Facts)

According to Kotak, the top 10 firms in the world right now are Apple, Microsoft, Saudi Aramco, Alphabet, Amazon, Berkshire Hathaway, NVIDIA, Tesla, Meta, and Johnson & Johnson. (Also Read: Top 10 Most Iconic Apple Stores In World: Check Out The List)

Nine American and one Saudi company are among the top 10 most valuable corporations in the world. This dominance by American businesses indicates that the US is still a major force in the world economy.

The top three companies are Apple, Microsoft, and Alphabet (the parent company of Google), with Amazon and Berkshire Hathaway following closely. These businesses are market leaders in their respective fields of technology, retail, and finance, demonstrating the continued dominance of the US in these industries.

Microsoft is valued at $2.1 trillion, followed by Apple with a market value of $2.6 trillion. With a market value of $2.2 trillion, Saudi Aramco is interestingly the only non-American firm in the top 10.

This state-owned oil and gas corporation has experienced rapid expansion in recent years, and its ranking among the top 10 companies is evidence of the vital role the energy industry plays in the world economy.
New Delhi: Tech giant Apple opened its first retail store in India on Tuesday at the Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) in Mumbai. CEO Tim Cook came to India and joined the special occasion along with employees by opening the gates of the newly retail store. People huddled to the store from across India, hoping to be among the first to enter, in an opening event

In the meantime, a customer brought his old 1984 Mackintosh computer at the newly opened Apples retail store. Tim Cook reacted in surprise at seeing that old macintosh classic machine. His reaction has gone viral on the Internet. Tim Cook will open Apple's second retail store in Delhi on Thursday.

ALSO READ | Elon Musk To Launch 'TruthGPT' To Compete With ChatGPT

See Tim Cooks reaction at seeing a customer bring his old Macintosh Classic Machine at the opening of Indias first Apple Store at Mumbais BKC:

#WATCH | Apple CEO Tim Cook surprised at seeing a customer bring his old Macintosh Classic machine at the opening of India's first Apple store at Mumbai's BKC pic.twitter.com/MOY1PDk5Ug  ANI (@ANI) April 18, 2023

Tim Cook Welcomes Customers At Newly Opened Store

Tim Cook opened the gates of Apples first retail store at Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) in Mumbai and welcomed the customers by standing at the gates. He shared the video on his Twitter handle and wrote, "The energy, creativity, and passion in Mumbai is incredible! We are so excited to open Apple BKC  our first store in India."

Some Fact About Apples First Store In India

The ceiling of Apples first store in India is comprised of 1000 tiles and 408 pieces of wood each. Two Rajasthani stone walls and a 14-meter stainless steel staircase leading from the ground floor to the cantilevered mezzanine welcome clients as they enter the store.

Apple claims its BKC store is located in one of the most energy-efficient Apple store locations in the world. The store uses only renewable energy, making its operations carbon neutral.
NEW DELHI: Amid a tussle with Delhis ruling Aam Aadmi Party, Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena on Tuesday directed the Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) to conduct a Special Audit of Distribution Companies (DISCOMs) with respect to Electricity Subsidy released by the Delhi government to them for financial years 2016-17 and 2021-22. As per the order, the audit will be carried out by a CAG-empanelled external auditor to make sure that subsidies reach the targeted beneficiaries in a transparent and efficient way, reported news agency ANI.

Delhi Lt Governor gives directions to the Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission to conduct a Special Audit of Distribution Companies (DISCOMs) with respect to Electricity Subsidy released by the Govt of Delhi to DISCOMs for FYs 2016-17 to 2021-22, through CAG empanelled  ANI (@ANI) April 18, 2023

It may be noted that the AAP and the Delhi L-G have been at the loggerheads over the continuation of power subsidy to the residents of Delhi. The AAP last week blamed the L-G for ending the power subsidy to people of Delhi. However, shortly after that the Lieutenant Governor approved the files related to power subsidy.

News agency PTI claimed that Delhi L-G VK Saxena has given his consent and approved the extension of power subsidy following a tussle with the ruling AAP which accused him of stalling the move. The Delhi Cabinet had earlier approved the extension of power subsidy for the year 2023-24, but the file was pending in the L-G's office, the AAP claimed.

The L-G also gave his consent for a special audit of the power subsidy amount disbursed to the distribution companies (discoms) since 2016-17, expressing "surprise" over the delay in it so far. Saxena, in a note to the chief minister, criticised the government for not conducting the audit of Rs 13,549 crore given to the discoms over the past six years, the sources said.

Power Subsidy For Poor: Delhi L-G

The LG reiterated his stand that power subsidy should be provided to the poor, pointing out that amounts being given to the discoms be audited to ensure non-pilferage. He has also asked the Kejriwal government to expedite its appeal in the Supreme Court against a High Court order quashing the CAG audit of the discoms, which has been pending for more than seven years, officials said.

L-G Vs AAP Over Power Subsidy

The L-G and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) dispensation are engaged in a tussle over power subsidy in Delhi, with the latter alleging Saxena of trying to stop the subsidy through a conspiracy with the BJP. The L-G in his note has underlined that audit by the CAG (Comptroller and Auditor General) empanelled auditors cannot and should not be considered a substitute to the CAG audit.

Repeating his consent and commitment to power subsidy for the poor, Saxena has iterated that such subsidies are public funds collected as revenue from the people of Delhi and it is the prime responsibility of the government to ensure that benefits reach the targeted population rather than getting pilfered for the gain of vested interests.

AAP Blames L-G For Ending Power Subsidy





Delhi`s Energy Minister Atishi said, "The file relating to subsidy has been stopped by the Lieutenant Governor. Due to this, 46 lakh consumers of Delhi will not be able to get electricity subsidy." However, shortly after the allegations were made by the Energy Minister, the Lieutenant Governor`s office claimed that the Delhi L-G has signed the file on electricity subsidy. "As the Lieutenant Governor had withheld the file related to power subsidy, Delhiites would not be able to get free electricity from Saturday," Atishi had alleged.

She said that the Arvind Kejriwal government of Delhi gives 200 units free of cost to Delhiites every month and 50 per cent subsidy on 201 to 400 units of electricity. Atishi also claimed that she had sought an appointment with the Lieutenant Governor on this subject, but even after 24 hours, the L-G did not give her an appointment.

Delhi Minister Making Useless Allegations: L-G Office

Reacting to Atishi`s allegations, the Lieutenant Governor`s office said that the Energy Minister should avoid making unnecessary and baseless allegations. The L-G`s office said, "The Energy Minister should stop misleading the people with false statements. The Energy Minister and the Chief Minister have been asked why the decision regarding subsidy was kept pending till April 4, when the deadline for electricity subsidy was April 15."

Delhi Lieutenant Governor Vinay Saxena slammed the state government for not conducting the audit of Rs 13,549 crore given to the power discoms.
Starting today, residents in Baltimore City with SNAP and EBT benefits can save on fruits and vegetables accessible through Giant Pickup and Giant Delivers orders

LANDOVER, Md., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Giant Food, the leading regional grocery chain, announces today its partnership with Baltimore City that will help residents with SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) benefits save on produce throughout Baltimore City. The program supports access to healthy produce at a critical time as recent federal rollbacks of SNAP Emergency Allotments result in many individuals being challenged to stretch their food dollars even more. This program is made possible by utilizing funds from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

The partnership will offer a $15.00 promo code to eligible households which will be accessible through Giant Pickup and Giant Delivers orders placed on giantfood.com. The code can be redeemed up to 12 times over the course of six months for a maximum benefit of $180. The $15.00 incentive must be used in full each time a participant redeems the code, and eligible items include fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables.

"Giant is proud to partner with Mayor Brandon M. Scott and Baltimore City Department of Planning's Food Policy and Planning Division to offer fruit & vegetable savings to those who need it the most, available through convenient delivery and pickup orders," said Gregg Dorazio, Director of eCommerce for Giant Food. "With the recent conclusion of emergency SNAP allotments, the rollout of this partnership comes at a time of great need and further supports our mission to increase access to nutritious foods and address hunger relief in the communities we serve."

"Nearly 150,000 of our Baltimore neighbors are impacted by the hunger cliff. This is an important step to help address the effects of the loss of SNAP Emergency Allotments and support families' nutritional needs," said Michael J. Wilson, Director, Maryland Hunger Solutions. "Making sure our residents have access to healthy, affordable food is a step toward combating food insecurity."

Story continues

"Our vision is to ensure all Baltimore City SNAP participants have the resources and support they need to achieve nutritional security through both in-store and online purchasing of foods" said Taylor LaFave, Chief of Food Policy and Planning for Baltimore City. "ARPA funding has allowed us to provide supplemental support for residents to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables while encouraging affordable at-home delivery options for residents living in Healthy Food Priority Areas. These efforts help build a more equitable urban food system."

Same-day service is available through both Giant Delivers and Giant Pickup. Purchases made on Giant Delivers between Tuesday-Thursday include zero delivery fees while all other days include a fee of just $3.95 per order. Giant Pickup is free with same-day service in as fast as two hours.

Giant remains committed to providing savings and value to all its customers, both through this new produce program, as well as its Giant Flexible Rewards loyalty program.

The Giant Flexible Rewards program provides customers the opportunity to save on their regular grocery needs and earn rewards toward grocery savings, gas savings and special rewards. Last year, Giant also announced that customers are now able to redeem their rewards points for staple store brand products at reduced point requirements, delivering even more savings. Customers can enroll and manage their points and rewards online at giantfood.com or on the Giant Food mobile app.

Eligible Baltimore residents who wish to take advantage of the online promotion via Giant Pickup may place their orders for pick up at these nine eligible Baltimore locations:

Store 145- 5150 Sinclair Lane, Baltimore, MD 21206

Store 159- 3757 Old Court Rd, Pikesville, MD 21208

Store 23060 1020 W 41 st Street, Baltimore, MD 21211

Store 108- 6340-50 York Rd, Baltimore, MD 21212

Store 337- 6620 Reisterstown Road, Baltimore, MD 21215

Store 303- 601 East 33 rd St, Baltimore, MD 21218

Store 363- 1400 Merrit Boulevard, Dundalk, MD 21222

Store 317- 46254 Edmondson Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21229

Store 2333- 857 East Fort Avenue, Baltimore City, MD 21230

For more information including the promotional code, how to redeem during online checkout and the full list of eligible zip codes for home delivery, please visit giantfood.com/snap-ebt-baltimore.

About Giant Food

Since opening its first location 87 years ago in Washington, D.C. in 1936, Giant has been an integral part of the communities and customers it serves. Giant is committed to being a Better Neighbor and has designated four main giving pillars that address local Food Insecurity, Military Support, Pediatric Cancer Research and Social Equality. Giant is headquartered in Landover, Md. and operates 165 supermarkets in Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, and the District of Columbia with approximately 20,000 associates. Included within the 165 stores are 153 full-service pharmacies, and 29 Starbucks locations. Giant fits all the ways today's busy customers want to shop - whether in store or online. With 162 Giant Pickup locations and Giant Delivers available in all of its markets, customers have even more convenient options right at their fingertips to get the best products and prices, whenever and however they choose. For more information on Giant, visit: www.giantfood.com.

SOURCE Giant Food
New Delhi: Goons of the sand mining mafia in Bihar on Monday attacked a Mines Department team and brutally thrashed a female inspector during an inspection in the Patna district, police said. The officials were attacked when they had gone for inspection as part of their drive to check illegal mining in the Bihta area. The woman officer -- Amya Kumari -- suffered injuries when the goons started throwing stones at the team. The attackers also reportedly beat her with batons.

"The incident took place when a team had gone for inspection and searches as part of its drive to check illegal mining in Bihta area. When they reached near Koilwar Bridge, the officials were attacked by anti-social elements. As the accused started throwing stones at them, Amya Kumari fell down and suffered injuries," the Patna district administration said in a statement.

The other two officials - district mining officer Kumar Gaurav and mining inspector Sayeed Farhin were also injured, the statement said. The conditions of all three injured are said to be stable.

"The police are investigating the matter and more arrests are likely to be made. The police will soon nab the mastermind behind this incident," Rajeev Mishra, the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Patna, told news agency PTI.

(Warning: Viewers' discretion advised. The video contains abusive language)

#WATCH | Bihar: Woman officer from mining department dragged, attacked by people allegedly involved in illegal sand mining in Bihta town in Patna district.



(Note: Abusive language; viral video confirmed by police)



44 people arrested, 3 FIRs filed while raids underway to arrest pic.twitter.com/EtKW1oedG3 April 17, 2023

The police arrested 44 people and seized 50 vehicles after registering three FIRs in connection with the incident.

Reacting to the incident, RJD leader Shivanand Tiwari said that his government has taken cognizance of the incident.

He told news agency ANI that Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has instructed the concerned officials to identify the people seen in the viral video and take appropriate action against the culprits.
New Delhi: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday came down heavily on Congress leader Siddaramaiah after he claimed that 31 people from Karnataka are stranded in violence-hit Sudan. Sudan has been witnessing deadly fighting between the country's army and a paramilitary group for the last five days that has reportedly left around 100 people dead.

"Simply appalled at your tweet! There are lives at stake; don't do politics. Since the fighting started on April 14th, the Embassy of India in Khartoum has been continuously in touch with most Indian Nationals and PIOs in Sudan," Jaishankar tweeted. "Their details and locations cannot be made public for security reasons. Their movement is constrained by fierce fighting that is ongoing," he added.

Simply appalled at your tweet! There are lives at stake; dont do politics.



Since the fighting started on April 14th, the Embassy of India in Khartoum has been continuously in touch with most Indian Nationals and PIOs in Sudan. https://t.co/MawnIwStQp  Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) April 18, 2023

Jaishankar said plans regarding them have to take into account a "very complicated" security scenario and that the Indian embassy in Sudan is in constant touch with the Ministry of External Affairs over the situation in that country.

"It is grossly irresponsible of you to politicize their situation. No electoral goal justifies endangering Indians abroad," he said. Jaishankar's reaction came after Siddaramaiah posted a series of tweets saying "It is reported that 31 people from Karnataka belonging to Hakki Pikki tribe, are stranded in Sudan which is troubled by civil war."

Siddaramaiah Seeks Centre's Help In Rescuing Indians Stuck In Sudan

The former Karnataka chief minister urged the Prime Minister's Office, the Union Home Minister's Office and the Ministry of External Affairs to "immediately intervene" and ensure the safe return of the Indians.

Assembly elections in Karnataka are due next month. On Monday, the Indian embassy in Sudan issued a fresh advisory urging Indians not to venture out of their residences and stay calm.

Civil War Erupts In Sudan

The embassy, on Sunday, said an Indian national died in Khartoum after sustaining bullet injuries. The Ministry of External Affairs has already set up a 24x7 control room to provide information and assistance in view of the current situation in Sudan.

Sudan's military captured power in a coup in October 2021 and it has been running the country through a sovereign council since then. There has been a dispute between the Army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) over a proposed timeline for handing over power to a civilian government.
New Delhi: In a major relief to TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee, the Supreme Court on Monday stayed the Calcutta High Court's April 13 order directing the CBI and the Enforcement Directorate to interrogate him and Kuntal Ghosh, an accused in the school jobs-for-graft case, and file a report based on that. However, soon afterwards, TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee accused central agencies of trying to "harass" him by summoning him for questioning despite the stay order from the Supreme Court.

Taking the plea of the TMC leader for an urgent hearing, a bench headed by Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud said, "List the petition on April 24, 2023. Till the next date of listing, there shall be a stay of all the directions against the petitioner (Banerjee) in pursuance to the directions contained in the impugned order of the single judge bench of the high court on April 13."

The high court had taken note of the public speech of Abhishek Banerjee, a nephew of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, in which he had purportedly said that Ghosh, an accused in the case, was being pressured by the central probe agencies to name him in the case.

Senior advocate A M Singhvi, appearing for Banerjee, referred to an interview given by the high court judge to a news channel and alleged that some statements he made were against Banerjee.

Singhvi also referred to the high court order which said no police station in the state shall lodge any FIR against the CBI and ED officers probing the recruitment scam.

The apex court bench, also comprising Justices P S Narasimha and J B Pardiwala, took note of the submissions of Singhvi and stayed the operation of the HC order till April 24.

It took note of Singhvi's contention that the direction of the high court was 'wholly extraneous to the relief which were sought in the petition' and, moreover, Banerjee was not even made a party there.

The Calcutta High Court had on April 13 passed a slew of directions asking the police not to lodge FIRs on complaints against officers of the CBI or the ED who are investigating the alleged recruitment scam related to the West Bengal Central School Service Commission and the West Bengal Board of Primary Education without its permission.

It had asked the central agencies to probe the role of Banerjee saying such an "interrogation should be made soon".

The high court was hearing a petition related to alleged irregularities in the recruitment of teaching and non-teaching staff in West Bengal government-sponsored and aided schools.

The high court had said that Ghosh could also be questioned soon by the central agencies along with Banerjee, the TMC national general secretary.

Abhishek Banerjee had addressed a public meeting in Kolkata on March 29 where he reportedly made the claim about Ghosh being under pressure to name him.

Kuntal Ghosh, an accused in the school jobs scam case and in custody currently, had also soon after, on March 31, alleged that he was being pressured by investigators to allege the complicity of Banerjee, TMC's unofficial number two.

"It is a matter to be enquired and investigated whether Kuntal Ghosh took the cue from the public speech of said Abhishek Banerjee for which both of them can be interrogated both by ED and by CBI and such interrogation should be made soon," the HC judge had said.

Abhishek, nephew of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, tweeted images of the letter summoning him, dated April 16, 2023, by the CBI, where a handwritten line shows it was received at 1.45 pm on Monday.

"In its desperation to 'harass' and 'target' me, BJP exposes CBI & ED to contempt of court! SC stayed the Calcutta HC's order in the morning that granted permission to the Central Agencies to summon me. Yet, the summons was hand-delivered today at 1:45 pm. Grave state of affairs!" TMC national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee said on Twitter.

When contacted, CBI officials declined to comment on the issue.

Meanwhile, Trinamool Congress MLA Jiban Krishna Saha was arrested on Monday by the CBI from his residence in West Bengal's Murshidabad district in connection with its investigation into the school jobs-for-bribes scam, officials said.
New Delhi: The Shanghai Cooperation Organization's (SCO) environment and emergency ministers (Emergency Prevention) are meeting this week, with India holding the chairmanship of the grouping this year. The meetings are part of a series of ministerial meetings being held in the run-up to the summit in July. India is hosting the environmental ministers meeting today virtually and will be chaired by Indian environment minister Bhupender Yadav. The emergencies ministers meeting will be held on 20th April, with Pakistan participating virtually and China in person at the deputy minister level.

India got the chairmanship of the grouping at the Samarkand SCO summit in September last year, and this is the first time it is holding the summit since becoming a member of the grouping in 2017.

Also Read: SCO-NSA Meet: Ajit Doval Calls Terrorism Most Serious Threat To International Peace, Security

India will be hosting the SCO Defence ministers meeting from 27th to 29th April in Delhi, followed by the SCO Foreign ministers meeting from 4-5th May in Goa. Invitations have been sent to all the member countries of the grouping, including China and Pakistan.

Any in-person representation from Pakistan in both meetings will be significant, as this will be the first such ministerial visit from Pakistan to India since New Delhi removed the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) is a major global grouping that was established over two decades ago with the aim of promoting economic, political, and military cooperation among its member nations.

The organization comprises eight member countries, namely Russia, India, China, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, and covers over 60% of the Eurasian landmass, with a population of more than 40% of the world's inhabitants and an economy that accounts for 30% of global GDP.

As the chair of the grouping, India will play a key role in shaping the agenda of the meetings and in promoting greater cooperation among member nations. The meetings will also be closely watched by international observers, as they provide a glimpse into the evolving geopolitical landscape in the region.
New Delhi: Four days after BJP MLA Thockhom Radeshyam resigned as Chief Minister N Biren Singh's advisor, another BJP MLA Karam Shyam resigned as head of the Tourism Corporation of Manipur on Monday. Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh's advisor, another BJP MLA resigns from a critical government position, and a dozen angry BJP MLAs camp in Delhi to meet with central authorities, following the resignation of Thockhom Radheshyam.

There may be new trouble brewing within the Manipur BJP, with about a dozen party MLAs from the state reportedly camping in New Delhi to meet with central leaders to discuss their concerns about leadership. The disgruntled group intends to ask the central leaders to either replace Chief Minister N Biren Singh or to reshuffle the cabinet immediately, according to BJP sources. This comes as two BJP MLAs who were former ministers resigned from critical government positions.

Karam Shyam claimed in his resignation letter that he is quitting "as he has not been assigned any responsibility as chairman" since taking over the chairperson on November 21, 2022.

I have tendered my resignation from the post of Chairman Tourism Corporation of Manipur Limited today, the 17th April 2023 @BJP4India @BJP4Manipur @narendramodi @AmitShah @PMOIndia pic.twitter.com/GWDijIGbLS  Karam Shyam (@karam_shyam) April 17, 2023

Karan Shyam's resignation letter went viral on social media, accompanied by a video clip in which he explains why he is resigning. The MLA claimed in a video clip shared with the media that he had been excluded from different tourism-related projects in the state. Shyam stated that he is "incompetent for the position of chairman," and hence tendered his resignation letter.

Shyam served as a minister in the N Biren Singh government in 2017. He joined the BJP in 2021, one year before the Manipur Assembly elections. On April 13, the resignation of Radheshyam Singh from the post of advisor to Chief Minister Biren Singh, led to a big surprise in the BJP-ruled state.

Radheshyam Singh, who was elected from the Heirok Assembly constituency in Thoubal district, had, after resigning, said that he was not given any responsibilities, nor consulted on any matter since his appointment in January this year. Both Shyam and Radheshyam Singh had served as the ministers in the first Biren Singh government (2017-2022).



Political circles said that a reasonable number of BJP MLAs are lobbying with the central party leaders against the Chief Minister`s style of functioning. There are reports that some more BJP MLAs, who are now holding the post of chairmen of various corporations and autonomous bodies, are likely to quit their posts. The Chief Minister is yet to respond to the developments.

(With agency inputs)
The people of Malaysia have described Muhammad Irfan as a "resilient, intelligent, sharp and compassionate man" who has endured commercial ups and downs while continuing to invest and expand. Muhammad Irfan, a resident of Malaysia, is the CEO of the "ALFARO MALL" in addition to being a successful businessman. Additionally, he works with models from all around the world. Muhammad Irfan discussed how to succeed in life, how to flourish in the West, and why he thinks the Malay economy has potential.

'A person who is a starter and a challenger' is the most widely used and straightforward definition of an entrepreneur. However, in reality, chief executives are "risk-takers." They establish reputations and bring out change. They elevate the concept of "being your own boss." The fact that they never give up, nevertheless, shows that they have a true business spirit. They encounter difficulties and dangers as they go. These dangers characterize a business built on dread and toil. Here is a list of businesspeople who overcame all obstacles. Reading about their experiences can encourage you to pursue your entrepreneurial goals.

Success depends on prior preparation, and without that preparation, there is a high likelihood of failure Said Muhammad Irfan.

Irfan has all the required qualities, including integrity, ethics, leadership, involvement in the community, and mentorship. He is going to give guidance to anyone who wants to begin a career in the fashion sector.

Thanks to his unwavering dedication to keeping up with trends and the many shifting rules and regulations in the fashion industry, he has established himself as a "Top Model" for Young Entrepreneurs and serves as an inspiration and guide to others in the industry.

(Above mentioned article is a sponsored feature, This article is a paid publication and does not have journalistic/editorial involvement of IDPL, and IDPL claims no responsibility whatsoever.)
New Delhi: Amid the Nandini versus Amul battle in Karnataka, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel stressed on Monday that there is no need to boycott Amul in the southern state. The row involving the two unions -- Nandini and Amul -- started recently after the latter announced that it would supply its milk varieties in Bengaluru. "There is no need to boycott Amul in my view. You keep doing what you want to do. If Amul is snatching something, it is a matter of protest," Patel said.

The opposition Congress and Janata Dal (Secular) in Karnataka have alleged that the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) wants to "kill" Nandini by allowing Amul in the southern state. They have also expressed their apprehension that a scarcity of Nandini products would be created to make way for Amul to take over. The Basavaraj Bommai-led BJP government in Karnataka has, however, denied the charge, saying there is no threat to Nandini from Amul.

Interacting with reporters here, Patel also said Surat has good town-planning schemes. Noting that there has been an increase in the demand for water and electricity in the city, he said they are moving towards renewable energy to meet the power demands.

"Water is equally important for people and business activities. We have to see what more we can do," the chief minister said. He also said Gujarat is moving towards natural farming. "During Covid and post-Covid, we have seen how people aged between 40 and 50 years are going for full-body checkups since diseases like cancer and diabetes are increasing.

Earlier, people would think about full-body checkups after turning 50. Similarly, chemicals are destroying the health of the land," Patel said. Stressing that natural farming is the way ahead, he said even though opposition parties might be raising questions about farming, no farmer has any complaint. "The farmers are not supporting them. They (opposition parties) can say anything," the chief minister said.
NEW DELHI: In a significant development, the Supreme Court on Tuesday questioned the parole given to the 11 convicts by the Gujarat government in the Bilkis Bano gangrape case, saying the gravity of the offence should have been considered by the state. The Supreme Court, while stating that like apples cannot be compared with oranges, similarly a massacre cannot be compared with single murder, and observed that the crime in question was "horrendous" and it's imperative for the Gujarat Govt to show the application of mind in allowing the pre-mature release of the 11 loge convicts.

The top court also questioned the Centre and the Gujarat governments for not showing to it the files of the remission. On their part, the Centre and the Gujarat government told the Supreme Court that they may file a review of the March 27 order whereby the top court had sought original files on remission to 11 convicts in the Bilkis Bano case.

Supreme Court then fixed the next hearing in the Bilkis Bano case on May 2.

Bilkis Bano case hearing in SC | Supreme Court questions governments for not showing to it the files of the remission. Supreme Court observed that the crime was horrendous.



Centre, Gujarat government tells SC that they may file a review of March 27 order whereby Court sought  ANI (@ANI) April 18, 2023

'Horrendous Crime,' Says SC

During a previous hearing in March this year, the Supreme Court had asked the Gujarat government whether uniform standards, as followed in other cases of murder, were applied while granting remission to 11 convicts in the Bilkis case. The top court, which at the same time clarified that it would not be overwhelmed by emotions in the case and would only go by the law, also directed the Gujarat government to present all the relevant documents on April 18, the next date of hearing.

A bench of Justices K M Joseph and B V Nagarathna issued notice to the Centre, Gujarat government and the convicts on the plea filed by Bano and asked the parties to complete the pleadings by the next date of hearing. "It is a very horrendous act. We have an experience of people coming to this court saying they have been languishing in jails for ordinary cases of murder and their remission is not being considered. So, is this a case where the standards have been adopted uniformly as in other cases?" the bench remarked orally.

Bilkis Bano Challenges Release Of Rape Convicts

Bano had moved the apex court on November 30 last year challenging the 'premature' release of 11 lifers by the state government, saying it has 'shaken the conscience of society'. The 11 men convicted in the case walked out of the Godhra sub-jail on August 15 last year, after the Gujarat government allowed their release under its remission policy. They had completed more than 15 years in jail.

A bench of Justices K M Joseph and B V Nagarathna issued notice to the Centre, Gujarat government and the convicts on the plea filed by Bano and asked the parties to complete the pleadings by the next date of hearing. As the hearing commenced, the bench said there is a gamut of issues involved and it needed to hear the matter in detail.

All the 11 convicts in the Bilkis case were granted remission by the Gujarat government and released on August 15 last year. The top court is seized of PILs filed by CPI(M) leader Subhashini Ali, Revati Laul, an independent journalist, Roop Rekha Verma, who is a former vice chancellor of the Lucknow University, and TMC MP Mahua Moitra against the release of the convicts.

Bilkis Bano, the main petitioner in the case, was 21 years old and five months pregnant when she was gang-raped while fleeing the riots that broke out after the Godhra train burning incident. Her three-year-old daughter was among the seven family members killed.
Pune: Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar on Tuesday dismissed speculation about his nephew and senior party leader Ajit Pawar's next political move and said no meeting of NCP MLAs has been called by anyone. On Monday, Ajit Pawar also dismissed as false the reports that he has called a meeting of MLAs on Tuesday, amid intense speculation in Maharashtra's political circles about his growing proximity with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Speaking to the reporters in Purandar area of Maharashtra's Pune district, Sharad Pawar said whatever discussions are going on in the minds of the media are not there in "our minds".

"...There is no importance of all these discussions. The reports have no meaning. I can say about NCP that all our colleagues are of one thinking of how to make the party stronger, and there is no other thought in anybody's mind," the party chief said.

Sharad Pawar, whose party is a constituent of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) which also comprises the Shiv Sena (UBT) and Congress, dismissed reports of a meeting of NCP MLAs being called in Mumbai and said no one has called such a meeting.

"The party's state president (Jayant Patil) is busy with a local election in his region, and another party leader Ajit Pawar is also busy with the work of the party and providing guidance to everyone," he said.

The NCP president said after his programmes in Pune, he will head to Mumbai.

Speculation about Ajit Pawar's next political move started swirling last week when he suddenly cancelled his scheduled meetings and also made comments which were seen as being soft on the BJP and Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's camp. The BJP is part of the Shinde government.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Sunday added grist to the rumour mill claiming Sharad Pawar recently told Uddhav Thackeray that his party will never join hands with the BJP even if anyone takes an individual decision to do so.
Kotdwar (Uttarakhand): A 75-year-old man was mauled to death by a tiger in Rikhnikhal block of Uttarakhand's Pauri district in the second such incident in the area in three days, alarming authorities who clamped a night curfew in 25 villages as a safety measure. District Magistrate Ashish Chauhan said the curfew in the 25 villages will be in force from 7 pm to 6 am. All schools and anganwadi centres in the area have also been ordered to remain shut till further orders, he added.

Forest Ranger Mahendra Singh Rawat said the half-eaten body of Ranveer Singh Negi was found by villagers on Sunday. The man was killed by the tiger on Saturday, he added.

The deceased lived alone at his residence in Simli village in the Kalagarh forest division, located close to the Corbett Tiger Reserve.

Another man in his seventies was killed by a tiger in Dalla village, located around 25 kilometres from Simli, on April 13.

Following the two deaths due to tiger attacks, the DM met the panic-stricken villagers of Dalla during the day to instill a sense of security among them.

Pauri's Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Swapnil Aniruddh and police personnel are camping in Dalla, where a cage has been put up by the forest department to trap the big cat, Chauhan said.

He advised the villagers not to go to the forest to bring fodder for their livestock.

The animal husbandry department has been asked to make animal feed available at people's doorsteps for the time being.

Meanwhile, a video surfaced on Monday in which a tiger is seen roaming the fields of Dalla, while cattle are grazing only a few metres away.

Trap cameras have been installed at various places in the area to capture the movement of the tiger, the DM said.

Forest and police department teams will remain stationed in the area throughout the night to keep a vigil, he said, adding that people have been advised to venture out only when it is unavoidable.

Even when they go out, they should do so preferably in groups, he said.

"Schools would not open until the tiger is caged," Chauhan said.

Aniruddh, Lansdowne DFO Dinkar Tiwari and Kotdwar Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Pramod Kumar are also stationed in Dalla.

Negi was not responding to the telephone calls of his relatives in Dehradun since Saturday, Rawat said.

The relatives informed the villagers about it and urged them to find out what was wrong. The villagers found bloodstains along the way to Negi's residence.

After a long search, they found the half-eaten body of the elderly man around 150 metres from his home, the forest ranger said.

This was the second such incident in the area in three days.

Birendra Singh (72) was mauled to death by a tiger in Dalla on April 13 when he had gone to harvest the wheat crop in his field.

Rawat said the next of kin of those killed in the tiger attacks will be given Rs 4 lakh in compensation.

Kotdwar MLA Dilip Singh Kunwar has requested Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami to declare the tiger a man-eater.
DUBLIN, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Global Ceramic Sanitary Ware Market Forecast to 2027" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

Research_and_Markets_Logo

The Global Ceramic Sanitary Ware Market is expected to grow from US$ 2.4 Billion in 2021 to US$ 5.6 Billion by 2027; it is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 15.17% from 2022 to 2027.

Companies Mentioned

Geberit Group

Lixil Group Corporation

Villeroy & Boch Ag

Rak Ceramics

Toto Ltd

Kohler Co.

Duravit Ag

Duratex Sa

Roca Sanitario S.A.

Ceramic sanitary ware comprises components and fixtures used for sanitary purposes, including sinks, toilets, bathtubs, and washbasins. These products are typically tri-axial compounds made from various raw materials, such as feldspar, quartz, and clay. Customers highly demand ceramic sanitary ware due to its affordability, easy maintenance, and resistance to chemicals and scratches. Furthermore, these products come in a broad spectrum of colors and textures.



Market Drivers



The global ceramic sanitary ware market is expected to experience growth mainly due to the increasing popularity of ceramic materials in the construction industry. Moreover, the expansion of corporate businesses and government programs aimed at raising consumer awareness of the importance of proper sanitary products will contribute to market expansion. Furthermore, a shift in consumer preferences towards hygiene will drive market growth.



Market Restraints



The primary obstacle expected to impede the growth of the global ceramic sanitary ware market is the fluctuation in housing demand. Additionally, the market growth may be affected by environmental impact.



Impact of COVID-19



The COVID-19 outbreak has resulted in a decrease in the growth of the sanitary ware industry due to the slowdown in production. The spread of the coronavirus has had an adverse effect on the economy and financial conditions of the target market, which has slowed down the expansion of the sanitary ware industry.

Story continues

Lockdowns imposed in response to the pandemic have halted the production of many sanitary goods. Supply chain disruptions and reduced consumer spending have also hindered the market's ability to expand. Therefore, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a considerable impact on the growth of the sanitary ware market.



Market Segmentations



The global ceramic sanitary ware market is divided into different segments based on product, application, and region. The product segment includes wash basins, toilet and water closets, urinals, and others. In 2018, toilet sinks and water closets had the highest revenue share and are expected to grow due to increasing customer demands for modern and aesthetically pleasing ceramic sanitary ware.

The application segment includes residential and commercial sectors, with the latter anticipated to have the largest share due to frequent use of sanitary items. The market is segmented into North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa. The North American market is expected to grow significantly due to the increasing demand for sanitary products in institutional and commercial sectors, as well as government initiatives to provide affordable ceramic sanitary.

Market Taxonomy

By Product

Wash Basins

Toilet and Water Closets

Urinals

Others

By Application

Residential

Commercial

By Region

North America

Latin America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Middle East & Africa

Key Questions Addressed by the Report

What are the Key Opportunities in Global Ceramic Sanitary Ware Market?

What will be the growth rate from 2022 to 2027?

Which segment/region will have highest growth?

What are the factors that will impact/drive the Market?

What is the competitive Landscape in the Industry?

What is the role of key players in the value chain?

What are the strategies adopted by key players?

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/vbn228

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
Kolkata: Mukul Roy's family members have claimed that he has been 'untraceable' since late Monday evening. Subhragshu, the former railway minister's son said to the news agency PTI that his father had been 'untraceable' and 'missing' since late Monday evening. "I haven't been able to contact my father until now." "He is untraceable," said Subhragshu, a TMC leader. According to Roy's close associates, he was scheduled to fly to Delhi on Monday evening. "As of now, we know he was supposed to land at Delhi Airport around 9 p.m." "However, he is untraceable," a close aide said.

As per his flight ticket, which was accessed by Zee News, Mukul Roy had a Indigo flight scheduled for Delhi from Kolkata at 7:35 pm. The flight tracker confirms that the plane landed in Delhi at its scheduled time of 9:55 pm.

Roy, a former TMC number two, joined the BJP in 2017 after clashing with the party's leadership. He was appointed as the BJP's national vice-president.

Roy won the 2021 assembly polls on a BJP ticket and later returned to the TMC after the results were announced.
UP Board Result 2023: The Uttar Pradesh Madhyamik Shiksa Parishad (UPMSP) is expected to announce the UP Board Class 10th and Class 12th 2023 results soon. As per various media reports, UP Board Exam Result 2023 is expected to be declared by the end of April. However, UPMSP officials have not made any official announcement regarding the same.

The work of evaluation of UP Board Class 10 and Class 12 exam answer sheets was completed before the scheduled date - April 1. The evaluation, which reportedly began on March 18, was completed in 14 days.

UP Board Result 2023: Over 1.40 lakh examiners evaluated UPSMP Class 10, 12 exam answer sheets

The Uttar Pradesh Madhyamik Shiksa Parishad had appointed over 1.40 lakh examiners to evaluate around 3.19 crore high school (Class 10) and intermediate (Class 12) exam answer sheets at 258 evaluation centres.

The UPMSP appointed 89,698 examiners to evaluate about 1.86 crore high school exam answer sheets, while 54,235 examiners assessed the 1.33 crore intermediate UP Board exam papers.

The Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government had made extensive arrangements to ensure security at the evaluation centres, including installing CCTV cameras and imposing Section 144 within a 100-meter radius.

The examiners, deputy chief examiners and their deputy controllers were trained through audio-video presentations at the respective regional offices to ensure error-free evaluation, Secondary Education Council Secretary Divya Kant Shukla had said last month.

The training was completed at the council's regional offices in Meerut on March 12, Bareilly on March 13, Gorakhpur on March 14, Prayagraj on March 15, and Varanasi on March 16.

UP Board Class 10th, 12th exams were held in February, March

It is noteworthy that the Yogi Adityanath government conducted the UP board exams in record time.

The exams for both classes began on February 16.

While UP Board Class 10 examinations concluded on March 3, the UP Board Class 12 exams were held till March 4.

UP Board Result Date Class 10th and 12th: Know how to check scorecard

Once UP Board's Class 10th and 12th exam results are announced, students can check their scorecards on UPMSP's official website -- upmsp.edu.in.

On the homepage, students need to click on the link -- UPMSP 10th Board Result 2023 or UPMSP 12th Board Result 2023.

Students will then be redirected to a new page, where they need to enter their roll number, date of birth, etc.

Students then need to click on the Submit button to view their UP Board Result 2023.
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Tuesday began hearing arguments on a batch of petitions seeking legal recognition of same-sex marriages, an issue with far-reaching societal implications and sharply divided opinion. A five-judge Constitution bench consisting of Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and Justices S K Kaul, S R Bhat, Hima Kohli, and P S Narasimha is hearing the case. On March 13, the Supreme Court referred the petitions to a five-judge Constitution bench for adjudication, calling it a "very seminal issue." The court proceedings began with intense arguments between CJI Chandrachud, Justice Kaul and Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who was representing the Centre.

During the argument, SG Tushar Mehta said that his preliminary objections against the maintainability of the petitions seeking same-sex marriage should be decided first and added that all states should be issued notices before a decision is made by the top court.

SG Mehta said that 'five brilliant and learned individuals' cannot decide for the entire nation and create a 'new socio-legal relationship' within the institution of marriage.

Replying to Mehta's submission, CJI Chandrachud said 'let us first hear the facts of the case'.

"I am in command. I'll make the decision... We'll start with the petitioners. Nobody will be able to tell me how the proceedings in this court will go," the CJI told Mehta.

During the hearing, Mehta said that there is a legislative intent that a marriage can only happen between a biological man and a biological woman, including Special Marriage Act.



CJI Chandrachud told Mehta, "Very important judgement you are making. That very notion of a biological man is absolute and the notion of biological woman is also absolute..."

Mehta said a biological man is a biological man and it is not a notion.



The CJI said, "There is no absolute concept of a man or a woman at all...it cannot be the definition of what your genitals are, it is far more complex. Even when the Special Marriage Act (SMA) says man and woman, the very notion of a man and notion of a woman is not an absolute, based on what genitals you have...."

Mehta submitted that the institution of marriage affects personal laws, Hindu Marriage Act is a codified personal law and Islam has their own personal law, and part of them is not codified. The bench - comprising justices Sanjay Kishan Kaul, S. Ravindra Bhat, Hima Kohli, and P.S. Narasimha -- replied that it is not getting into personal laws.

Here's what happened during the SC hearing on same-sex marriage

CJI Chandrachud: There is no such thing as an absolute concept of a man or an absolute concept of a woman.

It's not a matter of what your genitals are. That's the point: it's far more complicated. Even when the Special Marriage Act refers to a man and a woman, the concept of a man and a woman is not an absolute based on genitals.

Biological man is a man who has biological genitals. I didn't want to use that phrase.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta: There is no concept of biological man.

CJI Chandrachud: The concept of biological man is absolute and inherent.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta: My submission is that the legislative intent throughout the Special Marriage Act has been a relationship between a biological male and a biological female.

CJI Chandrachud: We're taking a middle path.

SG Mehta: Then we're short-circuiting the problem. I'm saying, don't hear it at all.

Judith Kaul: We are not going into personal laws, and now you want us to, why? How can you expect us to decide? We are not obligated to hear everything.

SG Mehta: Hindus and Muslims will be impacted, which is why states must be heard.

SG Mehta tells that there is no legal lacuna in the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act and the question is not of granting a socio-legal sanction. He apprises the court that it has been clarified that none will discriminate against transgender persons. There are provisions of reservation for transgender, he adds.

CJI DY Chandrachud: So we've stated what the bench is going to look at.

Justice Kaul: So can we define man and woman as persons in the special marriage act and leave the rest for another day?

Sr Adv Singhvi: Yes, sections 5 to 10 of the SMA have the opposite effect that they were intended to have.

CJI Chandrachud: Even in heterosexual marriages, a notice inviting objections to the marriage is unconstitutional.

Sr Adv Singhvi: Nobody is arguing about personal laws. Then there's the issue of state intervention... this court is interpreting the Special Marriage Act... the notice requirement must be overturned.

Sr Adv Singhvi: Adoption, in my opinion, is critical. So, even if the court rules that same-sex marriage is legal, such a right is a hollow shell. One is heterosexual marriage, and the other is homosexual marriage... so one criterion is based on sex... and if the court rules that same sex marriage is valid... that does not mean that people of all shades are included... the correct position will be to allow marriage between two consenting adults.

Sr Adv Singhvi: On the canvas there are two crucial words here marriage and persons. There are two categories of consequences.. one is minor and major consequences of marriage.. marriage has to have some consequential benefits.. even in this limited canvas the bench must travel a little further.

Senior Advocate AM Singhvi Starts Arguments

Sr Adv Mukul Rohatgi: Nothing has to be struck down, and we are in the process of evolution... and the word husband and wife be read as spouse in the special marriage act.. concept of marriage has changed in the last 100 years.. there was group marriage, child marriage, temporary marriage... all of this has changed... new avatar of hindu marriage act was also rejected.

CJI Chandrachud: Assuming you want a declaration that gay people have the right to marry, what comes next? Do you want the special marriage act to include it?

Sr Adv Mukul Rohatgi: We cherish and desire the same institution as marriage because it is respected in society. We seek a declaration that we have a right to marry.. that right will be recognised by the state as under special marriage act and the marriage will be recognised by the state after declaration of this court.. because even now we are stigmatised and even if we are holding hands and walking.. even after 377 judgement.

Rohatgi: We are persons of the same sex and we have the same rights as heterosexual groups in society. This has been held so, and we do not need to reinvent the wheel. The only stumbling block was Section 377, which made our actions criminal, and it is now gone... the unnatural part is erased from the statute book, and our rights are equal, as reflected in Puttuswamy, navtej johar etc.. and if our rights are identical and then we should enjoy full array of rights as under Articles 14, 15 and 21.

Justice Kaul: It does not look good that the government says it will see if they will participate in the hearing or not; this is a critical issue.

CJI: Aside from the adjournment, we will consider any request.

SG Mehta: None of us know what a farmer in south India or a businessman in north India thinks.

Justice Kaul: Are you saying that the government will not attend the hearing?

SG Mehta: If that is the case, let us take some time to determine whether the government should participate in this hearing.

CJI: I am in command. I'll make the decision... we'll start with the petitioners. Nobody will be able to tell me how the proceedings in this court will go.

Let them (petitioners) respond to our preliminary submissions, says SG Mehta.

CJI: Let us first hear the facts of the case.

SG Mehta: My submissions are only to determine which forum should be the sole constitutional forum capable of adjudicating this issue. We will not address the merits of the case while raising this preliminary issue.

"Personal laws, adoptions, inheritance, and maintenance are all issues," says Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal.

Justice SK Kaul: Not that we aren't aware. You are correct... but let us look at the canvas to see what is and is not opening up.

CJI DY Chandrachud: The tenability of your submission will be determined by the petitioners' submissions. We must examine the merits of the arguments. It will not be forgotten, and we will hear you at a later stage. We need a picture in the first 15 to 20 minutes. Let us first hear from the petitioners. We cannot anticipate petitioners' submissions.

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal says states should be heard in the case.

CJI DY Chandrachud says we will hear the Centre's submission on that at a subsequent stage.

He says the debate which is to happen is about the creation or conferring of the socio-legal institution and whether it should be done by the forum of the court or parliament.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informs the Supreme Court that the Centre has filed a petition raising a preliminary objection to the plea's maintainability.
New Delhi: As Mercury hovered around 40 degrees Celsius in large parts of the country on Monday, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted heat wave conditions in several states over the next few days. According to the weather agency, the Gangetic West Bengal and Bihar may see heat wave conditions for four days on the trot. The IMD also predicted heat wave conditions in Uttar Pradesh on April 18-19. Sikkim, Odisha, and Jharkhand may also experience heat wave conditions over the next two to three days.

Andhra Pradesh and its southern coastal regions are also expected to experience a heat wave till Wednesday, the meteorological department said in a statement on Monday. Warnings are out, especially for the districts of Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Visakhapatnam, Anakapalle, Kakinada, Konaseema, Krishna, NTR, Bapatla, Gunturu, and Palnadu. The remaining districts and Rayalaseema region in the state are expected to experience temperatures in the range of 38 to 42 degrees Celsius during the time.

It is noteworthy that states like West Bengal and Tripura have ordered the closure of schools, colleges, and universities for a week due to the prevailing heat wave conditions.

The threshold for a heat wave is met when the maximum temperature of a station reaches at least 40 degrees Celsius in the plains, at least 37 degrees Celsius in coastal areas, and at least 30 degrees Celsius in hilly regions, and the departure from normal is at least 4.5 degrees.

ALSO READ | 11 Die Of Heatstroke At Maharashtra Event

Earlier this month, the MeT office predicted above-normal maximum temperatures for most parts of the country from April to June, except parts of the northwest and the peninsular regions.

Temperatures soar in Delhi, Punjab, Haryana

In Delhi, heat wave conditions persisted for the second consecutive day with some weather stations recording the maximum temperature at least five degrees Celsius above normal.

Delhi's primary weather station, the Safdarjung Observatory, registered a maximum temperature of 40.6 degrees Celsius, four notches higher than normal. This was the third consecutive day that the maximum temperature settled above 40 degrees Celsius in the national capital.

Hot weather conditions also prevailed in Punjab and Haryana with the maximum temperature settling above the 40-degree mark in most parts of the states.

In Haryana, sizzling heat swept across Hisar as the mercury settled at 41.5 degrees Celsius, according to a report from the meteorological department.

ALSO READ | How To Protect Yourself From Heatstroke This Summer

In Punjab, Bathinda recorded a maximum temperature of 41.6 degrees Celsius. Chandigarh, the common capital of the two states, recorded a high of 40 degrees Celsius.

In Rajasthan, Churu was the hottest at 42.2 degrees Celsius, while Banswara recorded 42.1 degrees, Karauli 41.4 degrees, Alwar 41.9 degrees, Kota 41.2 degrees, and Pilani 41.5 degrees Celsius.

The day temperatures also rose by a few notches in Himachal Pradesh with Una being the hottest at 41 degrees Celsius, six degrees above normal.

Rainfall predicted in Delhi, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh

The IMD, however, said that a western disturbance active in the western Himalayan region will provide some relief from the scorching heat in the plains of northwest India starting Tuesday.

Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and Rajasthan are likely to experience isolated to scattered rainfall during April 18-20, it said.

Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand are expected to experience heavy rainfall on April 18-19.

Heavy rainfall is also anticipated in Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh on April 18.
New Delhi: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Tuesday issued a notice to the Uttar Pradesh Police in connection with the sensational killing of gangster-politician Atiq Ahmed and his brother Ashraf in full media glare and amid heavy police presence in Prayagraj. In its notice to the Director General of Police of Uttar Pradesh and the Commissioner of Police of Prayagraj, the commission sought reports from them within four weeks regarding the brazen killing of the two gangsters.

The reports should cover all the aspects leading to the killings, copies of medical-legal certificates of the deceased, inquest report, post-mortem report, video cassette/CD of the post-mortem examination, site plan of the scene of occurrence of the crime, and magisterial inquiry report, the NHRC added.

NHRC notices to the Director General of Police, Uttar Pradesh and Commissioner of Police, Prayagraj calling for reports on the complaints of the killing of Atiq Ahmed and Ashraf by miscreants in police custody. pic.twitter.com/bvCAXvAbKv  ANI (@ANI) April 18, 2023

Atiq Ahmed and Ashraf were shot dead at point-blank range by three men posing as journalists in the middle of a media interaction on Saturday night when policemen were escorting them to a medical college in Prayagraj for a checkup. They were brought to Prayagraj from Gujarat and Bareilly prisons for interrogation in connection with the killing of lawyer Umesh Pal and his two police security guards in February this year.

The brothers were in handcuffs when they were killed in full view of camera crews. The horrifying visuals were circulated widely on social media platforms and television channels. The last rites of Ahmad's son Asad, who was gunned down in a police encounter in Jhansi on April 13, were performed in Prayagraj just hours before the shooting.

Atiq-Ashraf Killed By Three Sharpshooters Posing As Reporters

Atiq and Ashraf were killed by three assailants, who posed as reporters, while the gangsters were being taken for medical checkups at Prayagraj medical college. The killers, identified as Arun Maurya, Sunny Singh and Lavlesh Tiwari, "wanted to become gangsters" and hatched a plot to kill Atiq, sources said. The police said they were in the process of ascertaining if someone else was also involved in the plan to kill Atiq and Ashraf. All three youths were arrested by the police at the scene of the shooting.

Multiple Bullets Fired At Atiq, Ashraf

Atiq was shot at least eight times, with bullet injuries found in his head, neck and chest, according to preliminary results of an autopsy conducted on his body after his sensational murder caught on camera outside a hospital in Prayagraj on April 15.

Sources said on Monday three bullets pierced the body of Ashraf, Atiq`s brother, during the shootout that took outside the hospital where the police had taken them for a routine medical check-up. The gangster siblings collapsed on the spot after being shot from near-point-blank range.

According to sources, the initial post-mortem report said Atiq was shot 8 times while Ashraf took 5 bullets. "Of the eight bullets that Atiq took, one hit his head, one his neck, one each on his chest, stomach and waist," sources said. Both Atiq and Ashraf were buried on April 16 at the Kasari Masari burial ground in Prayagraj.

According to the initial post-mortem report, Ashraf was shot in his neck, back and waist, with the bullets piercing his body. The Uttar Pradesh government ordered a judicial probe in the wake of the killings. Uttar Pradesh Police also announced the formation of two special investigating teams (SITs) to probe the killings.
NEW DELHI: The Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (UP STF) on Tuesday assured that they will soon arrest Guddu Muslim, the bomb specialist whose name surfaced in wake of gangster-turned-politician Atiq Ahmad and his brother Ashrafs sensational killing in full media glare and amid heavy police presence in Prayagraj city on Saturday night. UP STF DIG Anant Dev Tiwari, however, admitted that the state police force has not been able to nab them despite all efforts. Speaking to the news agency ANI, Tiwari said, We have not been able to arrest Guddu Muslim and Shaista Parveen so far. Efforts are underway. All teams are at it, we will arrest them soon.

We have not been able to arrest Guddu Muslim and Shaista Parveen so far. Efforts are underway. All teams are at it, we will arrest them soon: DIG Anant Dev Tiwari, Special Task Force (STF), Uttar Pradesh pic.twitter.com/sf65IMXoXf  ANI (@ANI) April 18, 2023

The UP Police have already declared a reward of Rs 5,00,000 for any information leading to Guddu Muslim's arrest and Rs 50,000 for Atiq's wife Shaista Parveen.

WHO IS GUDDU MUSLIM?

Guddu Muslim is one of the seven people named by the UP Police in its FIR in the Umesh Pal murder case. While four of them have been killed, Guddu Muslim is among those who are still at large.

Guddu Muslim, a close aide of slain gangster Atiq Ahmed, is said to be a 'bomb specialist' who prefers to kill people by throwing bombs, instead of using guns. According to the UP Police, Guddu Muslim was seen hurling crude bombs while riding a pillion on a motorcycle on the day lawyer Umesh Pal was murdered in February.

NHRC Issues Notice To Uttar Pradesh Police Over Atiq Ahmed-Ashraf Ahmad Murder In Prayagraj

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Tuesday issued a notice to the Uttar Pradesh Police in connection with the sensational killing of gangster-politician Atiq Ahmad and his brother Ashraf in full media glare and amid heavy police presence in Prayagraj City. In its notice to the Director General of Police of Uttar Pradesh and the Commissioner of Police of Prayagraj, the commission sought reports from them within four weeks regarding the brazen killing of the two gangsters.

The reports should cover all the aspects leading to the killings, copies of medical-legal certificates of the deceased, inquest report, post-mortem report, video cassette/CD of the post-mortem examination, site plan of the scene of occurrence of the crime, and magisterial inquiry report, the NHRC added.

Ahmad and Ashraf were shot dead at point-blank range by three men posing as journalists in the middle of a media interaction on Saturday night when police personnel were escorting them to a medical college in Prayagraj for a checkup. They were brought to Prayagraj from Gujarat and Bareilly prisons for interrogation in connection with the killing of Umesh Pal and his two police security guards earlier this year.

The brothers were in handcuffs when they were killed in full view of camera crews. The horrifying visuals were circulated widely on social media platforms and television channels. The last rites of Ahmad's son Asad, who was gunned down in a police encounter in Jhansi on April 13, were performed in Prayagraj just hours before the shooting.

Atiq-Ashraf Killed By Three Sharpshooters Posing As Reporters

Atiq and Ashraf were killed by three assailants, who posed as reporters, while the gangsters were being taken for medical checkups at Prayagraj medical college. The killers, identified as Arun Maurya, Sunny Singh and Lavlesh Tiwari, "wanted to become gangsters" and hatched a plot to kill Atiq, sources said. The police said they were in the process of ascertaining if someone else was also involved in the plan to kill Atiq and Ashraf. All three youths were arrested by the police at the scene of the shooting.

Multiple Bullets Fired At Atiq, Ashraf

Atiq was shot at least eight times, with bullet injuries found in his head, neck and chest, according to preliminary results of an autopsy conducted on his body after his sensational murder caught on camera outside a hospital in Prayagraj on April 15.

Sources said on Monday three bullets pierced the body of Ashraf, Atiq`s brother, during the shootout that took outside the hospital where the police had taken them for a routine medical check-up. The gangster siblings collapsed on the spot after being shot from near-point-blank range.

According to sources, the initial post-mortem report said Atiq was shot 8 times while Ashraf took 5 bullets. "Of the eight bullets that Atiq took, one hit his head, one his neck, one each on his chest, stomach and waist," sources said. Both Atiq and Ashraf were buried on April 16 at the Kasari Masari burial ground in Prayagraj.

According to the initial post-mortem report, Ashraf was shot in his neck, back and waist, with the bullets piercing his body. The Uttar Pradesh government ordered a judicial probe in the wake of the killings. Uttar Pradesh Police also announced the formation of two special investigating teams (SITs) to probe the killings.
New Delhi: At least 180 civilians have been killed while more than 1,800 civilians and combatants were injured in fighting between Sudan`s military and the country`s main paramilitary force, according to the United Nations envoy to Sudan, Volker Perthes, The New York Times reported. According to NYT, the fighting has left many of the five million residents of the capital, Khartoum, stranded at home without electricity or water as they marked the last few days of Ramzan, the Muslim holy month when many fast daily from dawn until dusk.

Overwhelmed medical facilities have been targeted including a major medical center northeast of Khartoum that was shelled, evacuated, and shut down. More than a dozen hospitals have shuttered, according to NYT. The European Union`s ambassador to Sudan, Aidan O`Hara, was assaulted in his residency in Khartoum on Monday afternoon, the EU`s top diplomat, Josep Borrell Fontelles, said on Twitter.

It was not immediately known who attacked him, but a spokeswoman for the bloc said the ambassador was "fine."It was still not clear who, if anyone, was in control of the country. The clashes, which erupted on Saturday, have pitted a paramilitary group known as the Rapid Support Forces against the Sudanese Army, a longstanding rivalry between Sudan`s two top generals who have been vying for dominance, according to NYT.

The Ministry of External Affairs in view of the current clashes between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on Monday set up a Control Room to provide information and assistance to Indians.

The Ministry of External Affairs in view of the current clashes between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on Monday set up a Control Room to provide information and assistance.

"In view of the current situation in Sudan, a Control Room has been set up at the Ministry of External Affairs to provide information and assistance," read the MEA press release. The ministry further shared the Coordinates of the Control Room, e-mail and gave the phone numbers for divulging information about the Indians who are stuck in Sudan."Phone: 1800 11 8797 (Toll-free) +91-11-23012113; +91-11-23014104; +91-11-23017905; Mobile: +91 9968291988 and Email: situationroom@mea.gov.in," shared the release.
The Delhi Police has arrested a man for making a false bomb claim at the Delhi International Airport during an SLPC security check. As reported by the IANS, the man, who was about to depart from Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport onboard a Go First flight became extremely agitated during the security check, to the point where he informed the airline staff that there was a bomb in his bag. The incident took place on April 11 when the man, identified as Shiv, was to take a Go First flight (G8-157) to Bagdogra, West Bengal.

As per the report, the man was waiting to board a bus that takes the passengers to the aircrafts, where aerobridge is not available, mostly through Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 of Delhi Airport. As per BCAS, a Secondary Ladder Point Security (SLPC) is to be performed by airlines for additional security measures. The man was asked by the Go First ground staff for the SLPC check of his hand baggage.

According to a complaint lodged by the airline staff, when he was asked to open his bag for a mandatory secondary ladder point check, Shiv got agitated and told them that there was a bomb inside his bag. The airline staff then followed standard procedure and disallowed Shiv from boarding the plane.



"The airline staff asked the passenger politely if he was carrying any prohibited items, but he became even more agitated and claimed that there was a bomb in his bag," read the FIR. The CISF staff was informed and when they approached the passenger, he allegedly continued to create a disturbance and even threatened the airline staff with termination.



"The passenger was then offloaded along with his checked-in baggage and he was escorted to the local police station," the complaint read. The police then registered a case against the accused passenger and initiated a probe into the incident.
New Delhi: The makers of Pushpa astound the entire nation with the unique concept video announcing Pushpa 2 The Rule. The arrival of Pushpa's rule was profoundly cemented with the release of the breathtaking poster on the eve of Pan India star Allu Arjun's birthday, featuring the sensational avatar of Pushpa Raj, that grabbed every eyeball with its appearance on the first page of newspapers across the country. Well, this was more than enough to ignite the spree of fire that has today made Pushpa 2 The Rule (Hindi) position at No. 1 in the list of Most Awaited Hindi Films as per Ormax media report.

As per the recently released Ormax Cinematix report, Pushpa 2 The Rule (Hindi) has made its place at the top in the list of Most awaited Hindi films as on April 15, 2023. Having released the list, they further jotted down the caption: "#OrmaxCinematix Most-awaited Hindi films, as on Apr 15, 2023 (only films releasing Jun 2023 onwards whose trailer has not released yet have been considered)"

#OrmaxCinematix Most-awaited Hindi films, as on Apr 15, 2023 (only films releasing Jun 2023 onwards whose trailer has not released yet have been considered) pic.twitter.com/dpWTLS9nYn  Ormax Media (@OrmaxMedia) April 18, 2023

With Pushpa 2 The Rule (Hindi) leading at the No. 1 position in the list of Most Awaited Hindi Films, Hera Pheri 3, Jawan, Tiger 3 and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 are other films that made their names in the list.

Pushpa 2 The Rule is directed by Sukumar and stars Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna, and Fahadh Faasil. The film is produced by Mythri Movie Makers.
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Dublin, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Composite Textiles Market Size, Share, Trend, Forecast, Competitive Analysis, and Growth Opportunity: 2023-2028" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The long-term outlook is expected to be rosy with healthy growth of 5.9% (CAGR) in the coming five years, pushing the market to reach a new milestone of US$ 9.5 billion in 2028.

There are more than 50 global and regional players, engaged in supplying composite textiles with a few players holding a distinct position in the market.

Key market participants have a wide-geographical presence and also gained excellent brand identity after dedicating eons of market presence and efforts to research & development. Composite textiles have gained significant interest as structural materials in many end-use industries owing to their value proposition and their unique combination of damage tolerance, delamination, and free and complex shape formability.



During the pandemic, when most industries were registering a huge decline, composite textiles got efficacious in dodging its impact. In the year 2020, the composite textiles market witnessed a mere decline of -1.7% amid the pandemic. The impact of the pandemic varied from industry to industry; however, a sharp rise in wind turbine installations ultimately helped the industry stakeholders to mark a low plunge, keeping other composite materials in mind.

Several factors are driving the demand for composite textiles out of which increasing penetration of composite materials in various end-use markets, increasing demand for lightweight materials, and increasing preference for composite textiles in large-sized applications such as boat hulls and wind turbine blades are expected to fuel the demand for composite textiles during the forecast period.



Recent Market JVs and Acquisitions:



Woven yarn is expected to remain the largest textile type in the market during the forecast period. There is a huge dominance of woven yarn in the electrical and electronics (E&E) industry, primarily used for making PCB laminates. Furthermore, the demand for carbon fiber textiles (usually sold in the form of woven yarn) is accelerating in most of the major markets including aerospace and wind energy.



Carbon fiber textile is expected to be the fastest-growing material type during the forecast period. Major factors driving the growth of carbon fiber textiles are the increasing demand for carbon composites from aerospace and wind turbine blades. Carbon fiber textiles offer a multitude of advantages compared with their competing materials including glass fiber textiles and metals in which weight reduction is the biggest one.



In terms of regions, Asia-Pacific is expected to remain the largest market for composite textiles during the forecast period. This region has the presence of major composite textile manufacturers, such as China Jushi Co. Ltd.; Nan Ya Plastics Corp.; Toray Industries; Inc.; and Chongqing Polycomp International Corp.

Story continues

China alone registers more than one-third of the global sales in 2022. The high penetration of the wind energy industry in China has partially offset the overall market decline in the country. Europe is estimated to be the fastest-growing region during the forecast period, driven by an increased focus on wind energy and strong demand for lightweight parts for the automobile industry.



Key Players



The market is highly populated with the presence of several local, regional, and global players. Most of the major players compete in some of the governing factors including price, product offerings, regional presence, etc.

The following are the key players in the composite textiles market.

China Jushi Co., Ltd.

Chomarat Group

Chongqing Polycomp International Corporation

Hexcel Corporation

Nan Ya Plastics Corporation

Nippon Electric Glass Co. Ltd.

Owens Corning

Porcher Industries SA

Preiss-Daimler Group

SAERTEX GmbH & Co. KG

Sigmatex Limited

Toray Industries, Inc.

Key Topics Covered:

1. Executive Summary



2. Composite Textiles Market Environment Analysis

2.1. Supply Chain Analysis

2.2. PEST Analysis

2.3. Industry Life Cycle Analysis

2.4. Market Drivers

2.5. Market Challenges



3. Composite Textiles Market Assessment (2017-2028) (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

3.1. Reinforcement Market Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

3.2. Composite Textiles Market Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

3.3. Market Scenario Analysis: Growth Trajectories in Different Market Conditions

3.4. COVID-19 Impact Assessment and Expected Recovery Curve



4. Composite Textiles Market Segment Analysis (2017-2028) (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.1. Textile-Type Analysis

4.1.1. Perform: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.1.2. CSM: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.1.3. CFM: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.1.4. Woven Roving: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.1.5. Woven Yarn: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.1.6. Multi-Axials: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.2. Material-Type Analysis

4.2.1. Glass Fiber Textile: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.2.2. Carbon Fiber Textile: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.2.3. Others: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.3. End-Use-Industry-Type Analysis

4.3.1. Aerospace & Defense: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.3.2. Marine: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.3.3. Transportation: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.3.4. Building & Construction: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.3.5. Consumer Goods: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.3.6. Electrical & Electronics: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.3.7. Pipes & Tanks: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.3.8. Wind Energy: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.3.9. Others: Regional Trend and Forecast (US$ Million and Million Lbs)

4.4. Regional Analysis



5. Competitive Analysis

5.1. Market Consolidation Level

5.2. Competitive Landscape

5.3. Market Share Analysis

5.4. Product Portfolio Analysis

5.5. Geographical Presence

5.6. New Product Launches

5.7. Strategic Alliances

5.8. Porter's Five Forces Analysis



6. Strategic Growth Opportunities

6.1. Market Attractiveness Analysis

6.1.1. Market Attractiveness by Textile Type

6.1.2. Market Attractiveness by Material Type

6.1.3. Market Attractiveness by End-Use Industry Type

6.1.4. Market Attractiveness by Region

6.1.5. Market Attractiveness by Country

6.2. Emerging Trends

6.3. Strategic Implications

6.4. Key Success Factors (KSFs)



7. Company Profile of Key Players

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/pt1p4q

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New Delhi: We all go through times when we need a cheerful reminder that kindness and love are all around us. What started the movement to choose kind with R.J. Palacios best-selling 'Wonder' will now continue with its next inspirational chapter - 'White Bird', which will release worldwide on 25th August, 2023. The trailer showcases a glimpse of what follows in the transformative journey of Julian (Bryce Gheisar), a young boy who has struggled to fit in since he was expelled from his previous school for his treatment of Auggie Pullman. Starring Byrce Gheisar, Ariella Glaser, Orlando Schwerdt, Gillian Anderson and Helen Mirren, the film will embark upon a lovely journey that shows how one act of kindness can live on.

Talking about the trailer release, Rohit Jain, Managing Director, Emerging Markets Asia, Lionsgate, said, We continue building on our big-ticket theatrical releases and White Bird is yet another exemplary film with a magical touch to it. For the romantics and the cinephiles, we bring an uplifting and powerful story about human spirit and the magic of connection. We believe that audiences will be inspired and moved by this story of love, bravery, and kindness, and we can't wait for them to experience it on the big screen. With the talent of director Marc Forster and a fantastic cast led by Bryce Gheisar, Helen Mirren, and Gillian Anderson, we are confident that 'White Bird' will entice audiences of all ages to the theatres.

Watch the video here

The film will also document Julians transformation with the help of his grandmother, revealing her own story of courage and love during her youth in Nazi-occupied France. Directed by Marc Foster with a screenplay by Mark Bomback, White Bird will serve as a breath of fresh air for anyone in need of a pick-me-up during tough times. White Bird, a Lionsgate/Mandeville Films production, is presented by Lionsgate in collaboration with Participant and 2DUX2 Productions.
New Delhi: At least four workers were killed and 20 others injured when a three-storey building collapsed in Haryana's Karnal on Monday. A total of 150 workers were inside the rice mill when the incident took place on Monday night and several of them are currently feared trapped. Teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) are currently involved in the search and rescue operations, which continued the entire night.

"A total of 24 people have been affected out of which 20 are injured and 4 are dead. Around 150 workers were inside the building when the incident took place. The injured have been admitted to a hospital," Karnal Deputy Commissioner Anish Yadav told reporters.

Prima facie we found that the building had some defects, he said.

VIDEO | "Four labourers killed, 20 others injured in the incident. 120 other labourers safely escaped from the building," says Anish Yadav, DC Karnal. pic.twitter.com/CJWvgIeLu3  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) April 18, 2023

A committee will be formed to investigate the incident and legal action will be taken against the rice mill owners, Yadav added.
New Delhi: Gangster-turned-politician Atiq Ahmed, who was shot dead on Saturday in Prayagraj, had written a 'secret letter' to Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath two weeks before his murder. His lawyer on Tuesday said that the letter, which was in a sealed envelope, is now being sent to the CJI and UP CM.

"That letter in a sealed envelope is neither with me nor sent by me. It is kept somewhere else and being sent by some other person. I don't know the contents of the letter," Atiq Ahmed's lawyer Vijay Mishra was quoted as saying by the news agency PTI.

Mishra stated that Atiq had said that if there were any 'mishap' or if he was 'murdered', the letter in the sealed envelope should be sent to the CJI and Uttar Pradesh chief minister.

Atiq Ahmed and his brother Ashraf were shot dead at point-blank range by three men posing as journalists in the middle of a media interaction on Saturday night while police personnel were escorting them to a medical college in Prayagraj for a checkup.

The brothers, both jailed in Prayagraj, were in handcuffs when they were killed in full view of camera crews. The last rites of Atiq's son Asad, who was gunned down in a police encounter in Jhansi on April 13, were performed in Prayagraj just hours before the shooting.

Atiq was brought to Prayagraj from a Gujarat jail, and Ashrwaj from a Bareilly prison, for interrogation in connection with the killing of Umesh Pal and his two police security guards in February this year.

Earlier, as Atiq Ahmed walked out of the Sabarmati jail, he had yelled to reporters, "hatya, hatya" (murder), indicating his fear of being killed in an encounter. He had also filed a petition in the Supreme Court to have his trip to Uttar Pradesh for a judicial hearing halted, claiming a threat to his life in a 'fake encounter'.

#WATCH | "While being taken from Prayagraj to Bareilly, he (Ashraf) was taken to Police Line where a Police official told him, "Iss baar bache ho lekin 15 din mein jail se nikaal ke kaam tamam kar denge"...Ashraf didn't reveal name but said that if murdered, a sealed envelope pic.twitter.com/4CvqLI7Y1S  ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) April 17, 2023

The emergence of Ahmed's 'secret letter' has now the possibility of a bigger plot behind his murder.

Two SITs formed to probe Atiq Ahmed's killing

The Uttar Pradesh police have formed two three-member Special Task Forces to probe the killings of Atiq Ahmed and his brother Ashraf.

In order to ensure qualitative investigation and time-bound action, a three-member team of supervisors has also been formed.

Meanwhile, internet services have resumed in Prayagraj after remaining suspended for two days in the wake of the killing of Atiq and his brother Ashraf.

District Magistrate, Prayagraj, Sanjay Kumar Khatri told PTI, "Internet services have resumed last night itself. They were suspended on Sunday. Everything is functioning normally, be it markets or schools. The schools were open yesterday as well."
New Delhi: Nationalist Congress Party leader Ajit Pawar on Tuesday dismissed speculation about him joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and said that he will remain in the NCP. Speaking to reporters amid speculation that he and a group of MLAs loyal to him might align with the BJP, the former Maharashtra deputy chief minister said that there is 'no truth' in the rumours about him.

"No truth in the rumours spread about me. I am with the NCP and will remain with the party," Ajit Pawar, who is the leader of the opposition in the Maharashtra Assembly, said.

Speculation about Ajit Pawar's next political move started swirling last week when he suddenly cancelled his scheduled meetings and also made some comments which were seen as being soft on the BJP and Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's camp.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Sunday added grist to the rumour mill claiming NCP chief Sharad Pawar recently told Uddhav Thackeray that his party will never join hands with the BJP even if anyone takes an individual decision to do so.

Earlier in the day, Sharad Pawar also dismissed speculation about his nephew Ajit's next political move and said that no meeting of NCP MLAs has been called by anyone. On Monday, Ajit Pawar dismissed as false the reports that he has called a meeting of MLAs on Tuesday, amid intense speculation in Maharashtra's political circles about his growing proximity with the ruling BJP.

Speaking to the reporters in the Purandar area of Maharashtra's Pune district, Sharad Pawar said whatever discussions are going on in the minds of the media are not there in 'our minds'.

"...There is no importance of all these discussions. The reports have no meaning. I can say about NCP that all our colleagues are of one thinking of how to make the party stronger, and there is no other thought in anybody's mind," he said.

Sharad Pawar, whose party is a constituent of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) which also comprises the Shiv Sena (UBT) and Congress, said that the party's state president, Jayant Patil, is busy with a local election in his region, and Ajit Pawar is also busy with the work of the party.

The NCP president said after his programmes in Pune, he will head to Mumbai.
New Delhi: Actress Chrisann Pereira, who has featured in movies like Batla House and Sadak 2 was arrested in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates (UAE) over two weeks back and is currently lodged in Sharjah Central Jail on drug-trafficking charges. Her family, however, cries foul and claims that she has been framed.

Hindustan Times report quotes her brother Kevin as saying, "We have been through emotional torture in the last 2 weeks, my sister is innocent and has been framed in a drug racket. The Indian Consulate informed us after 72 hours that shes been arrested and put in Sharjah Central Jail."

According to reports, she was arrested at the airport after being caught with drugs.

Her family claims that a man named Ravi conned her on the pretext of offering a web series. He allegedly first texted Chrisann's mother Premila Pereira and offered to introduce the actress 'to his talent (pool team) for a web show. They met a couple of times and later an audition was locked for Chrisann in Dubai. On April 1, the man called the actress at a coffee shop minutes away from the Mumbai international airport and gave her a trophy.

HT report quotes her mother as saying, "He (Ravi) handed over a trophy to her, perhaps mentioning that the said trophy is part of the script for the audition and will be required for the audition. Accordingly, she carried the trophy with her. On April 10, we were informed by the Consulate that Chrisann has been charged with drugs found in the memento."

However, on reaching Sharjah airport, Chrisann could not reach Ravi and felt something fishy. Her brother said, "The local police arent filing an FIR since the official charges havent come from Sharjah."
New Delhi: Popular Punjabi actress Sonam Bajwa has a massive fan following - thanks to her incredible body of work, solid performances and an amazing social media presence. She recently dropped simmering pictures from her bold photoshoot wearing a strappy red hot dress looking flaunting her hourglass figure.

Sonam Bajwa rocked her backless number like a true blue diva, sending fans into a tizzy on Instagram. Earlier as well, she shared a hot video from the same photoshoot taking a shower. The Honsla Rakh star was recently part of 'The Entertainers' tour in the US headlined by Akshay Kumar including other stars like Disha Patani, Mouni Roy and Nora Fatehi among others.

Sonam has worked in Punjabi, Hindi and a few Tamil and Telugu films. Not many people know but she also participated in the Femina Miss India contest in 2012 and soon began her acting career a year later with the Punjabi film Best Of Luck.

On the work front, she has 'Carry On Jatta 3' with Gippy Grewal in her kitty. The film is directed by Smeep Kang and produced by Humble Motion Pictures. It is a sequel to the Carry On Jatta 2 and also stars Gurpreet Ghuggi, Binnu Dhillon, Nasir Chinyoti, Jaswinder Bhalla among others.

She has also featured in a few music videos such as Surma and Brown Shortie.
The Indian Railway successfully completed the trial run of the Kerala's first Vande Bharat Express train. The semi-high speed train completed the Thiruvananthapuram to Kannur run in 7 hours 20 minutes on Monday. The trial run started from the Thiruvananthapuram railway station at 5:10 am and reached Kannur at 12:30 pm. The first rake of the Vande Bharat Express recently reached Kerala for its trial run ahead of the beginning of operations, which is expected to start from April 25, 2023, after Prime Minister Narendra Modi will most likely flag off the train.

Once flagged off, this will be the 15th Vande Bharat Express train in India, and the 5th one to be inaugurated in April alone. Earlier, PM Narendra Modi flagged off the semi-high speed train on various routes this month, including Bhopal-New Delhi Vande Bharat Express, Ajmer-Delhi Cantt Vande Bharat Express, Chennai-Coimbatore Vande Bharat Express and Secunderabad-Tirupati Vande Bharat Express. A total of 14 Vande Bharat trains are currently running across India.

The trial run of #VandeBharat Express begins in Kerala.

Keep an eye out for more! pic.twitter.com/BTTxhdoRWI  Ministry of Railways (@RailMinIndia) April 17, 2023

Meanwhile, top officials of the Thiruvananthapuram division and engineering department authorities joined the journey to Kannur. On April 14, Union Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan said Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "Vishukaineettam" (gift) this year is the Vande Bharat train service for Kerala, reported ANI.

"The demand for a high-speed train for Kerala has now been fulfilled. Prime Minister takes special care of Kerala. Under PM Narendra Modi`s leadership, the Centre is taking all efforts for the development of Kerala," he said.

Muraleedharan said, though the Centre had earlier indicated that Kerala will get the Vande Bharat train, a campaign was unleashed that the state had been denied the train. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to flag off the Vande Bharat train service during his visit to Kerala later this month.

Vande Bharat Express is an indigenously manufactured, semi-high speed and self-propelled train set. The train is equipped with state-of-the-art passenger amenities, providing passengers with a faster, more comfortable and more convenient travel experience.
SPHERICAL INSIGHTS LLP

The Global Drippers Market Size was valued at USD 267 Million in 2021 and the worldwide drippers market size is expected to reach USD 668 Million by 2030, according to a research report published by Spherical Insights & Consulting. Companies Covered: Elgo Irrigation Ltd., Metzer, Azud, Jain Irrigation Systems Ltd., Rain Bird Corporation, Chinadrip Irrigation Equipment Co., Ltd., The Toro Company, Rivulis Irrigation Ltd., Metro Irrigation, Chinadrip Irriga, ion Equipment Co., Ltd., KSNM DRIP, Irritec S.p.A, Hunter Industries, Inc., Netafim Limited and among others.

New York, United States , April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Global Drippers Market Size is to grow from USD 267 Million in 2021 to USD 668 Million by 2030, at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 10.7 % during the forecast period. Market participants are making ongoing efforts to diversify their product portfolios, expand globally, and collaborate with governments, all of which are expected to have a positive impact on the market during the forecast period.

Get a Sample PDF Brochure: https://www.sphericalinsights.com/request-sample/1667

Drippers, also known as emitters, regulate the flow of water from the lateral to the plants. They are usually more than a metre apart, with one or more emitters dedicated to a single plant or a group of plants, such as a crop. In row crops, closer-spaced emitters can be used to wet a strip of soil. Government subsidies and schemes, combined with industry participation, are helping to improve dripper prospects in the Asia Pacific. In response to the growing global water crisis, governments are promoting water-efficient irrigation technologies such as drip irrigation and sprinkler irrigation systems for agricultural and non-agricultural purposes. These factors will contribute to the growth of the dripper market in the coming years. Opportunities in innovative products and patent registrations have emerged in the global drippers market, indicating an increase in demand for cutting-edge agricultural technologies. Drip irrigation reduces water and fertilizer costs through proper usage while also increasing crop productivity by providing plants with the appropriate amount of water and fertilizer. These factors are expected to drive the drippers market forward. However, drip irrigation system adoption is hampered by the cost of installation and maintenance, as well as the requirement for regular capital to replace system parts at predetermined intervals. These factors may limit the drippers market's growth during the forecast period.

Story continues

Browse key industry insights spread across 200 pages with 100 market data tables and figures & charts from the report on " Global Drippers Market Size , Share, and COVID-19 Impact Analysis, By Type (Online and Inline), By Crop Type (Fruits & Nuts, Field Crops, Vegetable Crops), and By Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East, and Africa), Analysis and Forecast 2021  2030". Get Detailed Report Description Here:

Buy Now Full Report: https://www.sphericalinsights.com/checkout/1667

The inline segment is expected to hold the largest share of the Global Drippers Market during the forecast period.

Based on the type, the global drippers market is differentiated into online and inline. The expansion is due to the fact that inline emitters are moulded into the dripline, reducing the need for additional emitters. Inline drippers are typically installed where plants are planted close together, with less than 3 feet of space between two crops. Inline drippers are perfect for evenly spaced plants because they eliminate the need for a large number of connections with plain pipes in areas that may not require irrigation.

The field crops segment is expected to hold the largest share of the Global Drippers Market over the prediction period.

Based on the crop type, the global drippers market is classified into fruits & nuts, field crops, and vegetable crops. The increased use of drip irrigation in field crops such as cotton, maize, onion, and others can be attributed to segmental growth. Drip Irrigation plays an important role in increasing the production of field crops.

Inquire Before Buying This Research Report: https://www.sphericalinsights.com/inquiry-before-buying/1667

Asia Pacific is expected to hold the largest share of the market during the study period.

Asia Pacific is anticipated to hold the largest share of the global drippers market during the study period. Because of increased government support in the form of subsidies, drip irrigation systems are becoming more affordable for farmers with mid-sized farms. This, in turn, is propelling the region's drippers market forward. Drip irrigation is quickly gaining popularity around the world, particularly in developing countries where water is scarce, which will drive the dripper market in the coming years. North America is expected to grow at the fastest rate in the global drippers market during the forecast period. Irrigation sector advancement and a greater emphasis on producing higher crop yields with fewer available resources are driving the North American irrigation market. These will help the dripper market expand in the coming decades.

Competitive Analysis:

The report offers the appropriate analysis of the key organizations/companies involved within the global market along with a comparative evaluation primarily based on their product offering, business overviews, geographic presence, enterprise strategies, segment market share, and SWOT analysis. The report also provides an elaborative analysis focusing on the current news and developments of the companies, which includes product development, innovations, joint ventures, partnerships, mergers & acquisitions, strategic alliances, and others. This allows for the evaluation of the overall competition within the market. Major vendors in the Global Drippers Market include Elgo Irrigation Ltd., Metzer, Azud, Jain Irrigation Systems Ltd., Rain Bird Corporation, Chinadrip Irrigation Equipment Co., Ltd., The Toro Company, Rivulis Irrigation Ltd., Metro Irrigation, Chinadrip Irrigation Equipment Co., Ltd., KSNM DRIP, Irritec S.p.A, Hunter Industries, Inc., Netafim Limited, and Others.

Get Discount At @ https://www.sphericalinsights.com/request-discount/1667

Recent Developments

In March 2022, Toro Company (US) has expanded the Toro Aqua-Traxx Azul drip tape product line for precision irrigation. Since its introduction, the Azul line has provided growers with field-proven performance by providing superior clog resistance via an innovative emitter design, with multi-stage filters providing greater filtration area.

Browse Related Reports

Global Agricultural Sprayers Market Size, Share, and COVID-19 Impact Analysis, By Type (Tractor-mounted, Handheld, Self-propelled, Trailed, Aerial), By Power Source (Electric & Battery-driven, Fuel-based, Manual, Solar), By Capacity (High volume, Low volume, Ultra-low volume), and By Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East, and Africa), Analysis and Forecast 2021  2030

https://www.sphericalinsights.com/reports/agricultural-sprayers-market

Global Soil Monitoring Market Size, Share, and COVID-19 Impact Analysis, By Application (Agricultural, Non-agricultural), By Offering (Hardware, Software, and Services), By System Type (Ground-based Sensing, Sensing & Imagery, and Robotic & Telematics), and By Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East, and Africa), Analysis and Forecast 2021  2030

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About the Spherical Insights & Consulting

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Which is catering to different industry such as financial sectors, industrial sectors, government organizations, universities, non-profits and corporations. The company's mission is to work with businesses to achieve business objectives and maintain strategic improvements.

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New Delhi: In one-of-its-kind case, an arist named Boris Eldagsen refused to take the award worth of $5000 after winning the first prize in Sony Photography competition. He revealed during the award ceremony that he had taken the help of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to create the award winning image and stated that he only wanted to see if such competitions are prepared for AI images.

Thank you for selecting my image and making this a historic moment, as it is the first AI generated image to win in a prestigous international PHOTOGRAPHY competition. How many of you knew or suspected that it was AI generated? Something about this doesnt feel right, does it? AI images and photography should not compete with eachother in an award like this. They are different entities. AI is not photography. Therefore I will not accept the award," Eldagsen said while refusing the award during the function.

The Berlin-based Photomedia artist Boris Eldagsen took part in the the World Photography Organization's Sony World Photography Awards. The competition offers the prizes worth $5000 cash and Sony camera equipment.

Eldagsen's Image 'The Electrician'

Eldagsens image called The Electrician in the creative categroy, which illustrates the visual language of the 1940s. Two women appeared in the image that seemed very old.

"I applied as a cheeky monkey to find out if the competitions are prepared for AI images to enter. They are not. We, the photo world, need an open discussion. A discussion about what we want to consider photography and what not. Is the umbrella of photography large enough to invite AI images to enter  or would this be a mistake?" Eldgasen stated his purpose.

He wrote on his website that he informed the competition team about the image being genreated with the help of AI.

What is Generative AI?

Generative AI is a form of artificial intelligence that is capable of generating creative content, such as images, music, text, and even entire videos, without any human intervention. It uses machine learning algorithms to analyze and learn from large datasets, and then uses this knowledge to create new content that resembles what it has learned.

One of the most common forms of generative AI is text generation, where the algorithm learns from a large corpus of text and generates new text that is similar in style and tone. This can be used for a variety of purposes, such as generating news articles, social media posts, or even creative writing.

Another popular application of generative AI is image and video generation, where the algorithm learns from a large set of images or videos and then generates new content that is similar in style and composition. This can be used for a variety of applications, such as creating realistic 3D models, generating new art, or even producing entire movies.
New Delhi: Twenty-five years after entering India by selling products and services through partners, iconic consumer technology brand Apple on Tuesday launched the country's first retail store in Mumbai. Chief executive Tim Cook opened the doors of the store located in a mall in the Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) business district exactly at 11 AM to welcome the first set of customers.

Dressed in a black t-shirt and grey pants and accompanied by the company's senior vice president for retail Deirdre O'Brien, Cook opened the doors of the store to walk into a crowded foyer to pose for the media and then started welcoming customers into the store. (Also Read: Apple Launches 1st Retail Store In Mumbai: Check Five Lesser-Known Facts)

As the store's 100-odd employees along with company executives from other parts of the world cheered, Cook welcomed about dozen-odd customers for seven minutes before going back into the store. (Also Read: In PICS Apple BKC: Here's A To Z About Company's Mumbai Store)

Excitement levels were already very high over the last fortnight since the company announced the opening of the store, and many fans had been queuing up at the mall since morning to be among the first ones to shop at the store.

Cook posed for selfies with the customers and exchanged quick pleasantries before welcoming them into the store located inside the Jio World Drive mall. The launch of the Mumbai store will be followed by the opening of another retail outlet in New Delhi's Saket on Thursday.
Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday made a big statement saying that no mafia can threaten anyone in the state under the present BJP government. The remarks from the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister came days after jailed gangster-turned-politician Atiq Ahmed and his brother Ashraf were gunned down in full media glare and amid heavy police presence in Prayagraj district on Saturday. The incident followed the death of Atiq`s fugitive son Asad in an exchange of fire with the UP Special Task Force (STF) in the Jhansi district earlier.

CM Yogi's Big Remark After Atiq-Ashraf Murder

CM Adityanath made the statement while addressing the MoU signing programme at Textile Park in the state capital Lucknow this morning. Claiming that the state was infamous for riots earlier, the CM said, "Between 2012 and 2017, more than 700 riots took place in Uttar Pradesh. However, from 2017 till 2023, not a single riot has happened in UP and neither has a curfew been imposed in the state."

The Chief Minister stated that earlier, the state suffered from an identity crisis. However today, criminals and mafias are in a crisis. Now gangsters and mafia cannot threaten businessmen over the phone. Uttar Pradesh today promises a better law and order situation.

SC Agrees To List All Pleas Seeking Probe Into Atiq-Ashraf Murder

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Tuesday agreed to list on April 24 the plea seeking to constitute an Independent Expert Committee under the chairmanship of a Former Supreme Court judge to inquire into the killing of Atiq and Ashraf, amid police presence.

Atiq Ahmed`s killers had a long connection with the crime and in their desire to become "popular", they executed the killings on April 15 while the gangster-turned-politician and his brother Ashraf were in the custody of Uttar Pradesh Police in Prayagraj, sources said on Monday.

Atiq-Ashraf Killed By Three Sharpshooters Posing As Reporters

Atiq and Ashraf were killed by three assailants, who posed as repoeters, while the gangsters were being taken for medical checkups at Prayagraj medical college. The killers, identified as Arun Maurya, Sunny Singh and Lavlesh Tiwari, "wanted to become gangsters" and hatched a plot to kill Atiq, sources said earlier. The police said they were in the process of ascertaining if someone else was also involved in the plan to kill Atiq and Ashraf. All three youths were arrested by the police at the scene of the shooting.

Multiple Bullets Fired At Atiq, Ashraf

Atiq was shot at least eight times, with bullet injuries found in his head, neck and chest, according to preliminary results of an autopsy conducted on his body after his sensational murder caught on camera outside a hospital in Prayagraj on April 15. Sources said on Monday three bullets pierced the body of Ashraf, Atiq`s brother, during the shootout that took outside the hospital where the police had taken them for a routine medical check-up. The gangster siblings collapsed on the spot after being shot from near-point-blank range.

According to sources, the initial post-mortem report said Atiq was shot 8 times while Ashraf took 5 bullets. "Of the eight bullets that Atiq took, one hit his head, one his neck, one each on his chest, stomach and waist," sources said. Both Atiq and Ashraf were buried on April 16 at the Kasari Masari burial ground in Prayagraj.

According to the initial post-mortem report, Ashraf was shot in his neck, back and waist, with the bullets piercing his body. The Uttar Pradesh government ordered a judicial probe in the wake of the killings. Uttar Pradesh Police also announced the formation of two special investigating teams (SITs) to probe the killings.
ReportLinker

An adhesive is a chemical substance that is used to bond materials (substrates) that are either identical or different by their surfaces. EV adhesives are used in a variety of applications, including powertrain, optical element, sensors & communication, and body frame.

New York, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Reportlinker.com announces the release of the report "Electric Vehicle Adhesives Market by Application, Resin Type, Substrate, Form, Vehicle Type And Region - Global Forecast 2027" - https://www.reportlinker.com/p05824469/?utm_source=GNW

The market for adhesives used in electric vehicles has been defined in this report (EV). Electric cars, electric buses, electric bikes, and electric trucks are among the types of electric vehicles taken into consideration. Polymer, composite, and metal have been identified as the primary substrates for EV adhesives. The use of EV adhesives is growing due to various requirements from automakers, like bonding similar and dissimilar materials, replacing traditional substrate materials with synthetic substrates, and a growing emphasis on environmental concerns. EV adhesives deals with a variety of engineering and design challenges since they are vibration resistant, lightweight, and allow for the distribution of stress over a large area.



Electric Cars vehicle type is Accounted For Largest Share of Electric Vehicle Adhesives Market

Vehicle manufacturers are announcing increasingly ambitious electrification plans. 90 % of new car registrations in 2021 was made by 18 of the top 20 car manufacturers in the world, and they all have plans to increase their model portfolio and light-duty EV production quickly. The growth of EVs is being driven by critical policy changes put in place by leading countries in electric mobility. These countries have enacted stricter emission standards, as well as EV incentives, and are promoting investment in the EV industry value chain in order to achieve price compatibility between EV and ICE vehicles. Adhesive technology, which is used in a variety of applications in an EV, is crucial in making the vehicle lightweight. During the forecast period, EV adhesive manufacturers are expected to benefit from expanding EV markets such as Europe, Asia Pacific, and North America. As a result, automakers are under increased pressure to lessen vehicle emissions, and EVs are a great way to do so. The global lockdowns imposed in response to the COVID-19 outbreak reduced demand for EVs. Due to business closures and lookdowns, work-from-home (WFH) policies were established. Furthermore, governments imposed strict regulations on essential services and allowed only limited movement. On the other hand, purchase incentives can be an effective way of increasing EV demand. Governments and other organizations can provide financial incentives, such as tax credits or rebates, to encourage customers to buy EVs. These incentives may assist in lowering the higher initial cost of EVs, making them more affordable to consumers.



Epoxy is projected to be the second largest resin type segment in Electric Vehicle Adhesives Market

The market for the epoxy adhesives segment is projected to witness the second highest CAGR of 36.9% between 2022 and 2027, in terms of value. The consumption of epoxy adhesives is increasing due to their ability to efficiently bond different materials used in automobiles. Epoxy adhesives are constructed from epoxy resins and hardeners. The resin is mixed with a specific catalyst to begin the curing process in the manufacturing of epoxy adhesives. Epoxys rigidity and strength are provided by covalent bonds formed between the resins epoxide groups and the catalysts amine groups. Monitoring curing conditions, such as temperature and resin and hardener compound selection, can affect the characteristics of epoxy adhesives. Epoxy adhesives, which are commonly used as structural adhesives, are classified into two types: one-component systems and two-component systems. One-component epoxy adhesives cure at temperatures ranging from 120C to 150C (248 "F TO 302 F). One-component epoxy adhesives cure rapidly than two-component epoxy adhesives and require less heat to cure.

Epoxy adhesives in two-component systems cure at room temperature but can be accelerated by heat.Epoxy adhesives have a high level of resistance to moisture, oil, and a variety of solvents.



Many high-quality epoxy adhesives exhibit low shrinkage during curing and high creep resistance when subjected to prolonged stress. These adhesives are commercially available as liquids, pastes, films, and solids.



APAC accounts for the largest share in Electric Vehicle Adhesives Market by region

APAC accounted for the largest share of the Electric Vehicle Adhesives Market in 2021, followed by Europe and North America. Asia Pacific accounted for 54.5% of the global EV adhesives market, in terms of value, in 2021.

After is India, China is the largest market for EV adhesives.China recovered quickly from COVID-19 as a result of government restrictions and precautions.



As the economy reopened, variety of industries resumed operations.Construction activities have resumed with an increase in investments in real estate development.



The recovery of the automotive industry is expected to boost the Chinese EV adhesives market.As a major adhesives market, China is home to all of the major manufacturers of EV adhesives.



Strong automobile market of the country has ensured the existence of many automobile adhesive manufacturers in China. This existence of adhesive manufacturers in the countrys largest automobile market has helped adhesive manufacturers to concentrate on the opportunity offered by the countrys growing EV market. The key drivers for the EV market are decreasing ICE vehicle sales and strict emissions controls in the country. The leading Chinese producers of electric batteries, like CATL and BUILD YOUR DREAMS (BYD), plans to set up new battery factories in the country during the forecast period. All these factors are expected to drive the market in APAC.

Extensive primary interviews were conducted to determine and verify the market size for several segments and sub segments and information gathered through secondary research.



The break-up of primary interviews is given below:

 By Company Type - Tier 1  30%, Tier 2  50%, and Tier 3  20%

 By Designation  C level Executives  40%, Director level  20%, and Others*  40%

 By Region  North America 15%, Europe  30%, Asia Pacific  45%, and **Rest of the World**- 10%

Notes: *Others include sales, marketing, and product managers.



Notes: ** Rest of the Wolrd include Brazil, South Africa, and other countries



Tier 1: >USD 5 Billion; Tier 2: USD 1 Billion USD 5 Billion; and Tier 3:

The companies profiled in this market research report include are Henkel AG & Co. KGaA (Germany), H.B. Fuller (US), Sika AG (Switzerland), 3M (US), Wacker Chemie AG (Germany), Arkema S.A. (France), Ashland Inc. (US), PPG Industries (US), Parker Hannifin Corporation (US), and Illinois Tool Works Inc. (US), and others.



Research Coverage:

This research report categorizes the Electric Vehicle Adhesives Market on the basis of application, resin type, vehicle type, substrate, form, and region.The report includes detailed information regarding the major factors influencing the growth of the Electric Vehicle Adhesives Market, such as drivers, restraints, challenges, and opportunities.



A detailed analysis of the key industry players has been done to provide insights into business overviews, products & services, key strategies, expansions, new product developments, acquisition and recent developments associated with the market.



Reasons to Buy the Report



The report will help market leaders/new entrants in this market in the following ways:

1. This report segments the Electric Vehicle Adhesives Market comprehensively and provides the closest approximations of market sizes for the overall market and subsegments across verticals and regions.

2. The report will help stakeholders understand the pulse of the market and provide them information on the key market drivers, restraints, challenges, and opportunities.

3. This report will help stakeholders understand the major competitors and gain insights to enhance their position in the business. The competitive landscape section includes expansions, new product developments, and joint ventures.

4. The report includes the COVID-19 impact on the Electric Vehicle Adhesives Market.

Read the full report: https://www.reportlinker.com/p05824469/?utm_source=GNW



About Reportlinker

ReportLinker is an award-winning market research solution. Reportlinker finds and organizes the latest industry data so you get all the market research you need - instantly, in one place.



__________________________

Story continues

CONTACT: Clare: clare@reportlinker.com US: (339)-368-6001 Intl: +1 339-368-6001




SINGAPORE, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Family Traveller, a fast-growing global media brand, today announced the arrival of its Asia expansion, Family Traveller Asia. Initially targeting families in Singapore, Hong Kong SAR, Malaysia, South Korea, and the Philippines, Family Traveller has also named Sentosa, Singapore's premier island resort getaway, as its official launch partner in Asia.

The Family Traveller Asia website is a one-stop travel-planning resource for all, including those travelling with infants, toddlers, school-age children, teenagers, and grandparents.

"It is, in my opinion, a hugely exciting time to launch the Family Traveller Asia platform. We are bringing together an amazingly talented team to create a website and media platform that appeals to a new era of post Covid-19 travellers  those who are interested in introducing their kids and family to the world," Andrew Dent, founder and CEO of parent company Akaroa Tech Limited, said. "As we come out of the most challenging of times, we have seen leisure travel, especially family-centric travel, leading this recovery.''

With Sentosa as its official launch partner, travellers can expect various joint content initiatives, including an incredible selection of family activities, events, and hotel stays.

"We are honoured to be partnering with such a respected destination as Sentosa for our launch and this collaboration shows our commitment to work with the very best in the family travel sector. We expect Asia to be our fastest-growing region globally and look forward to working closely with local and regional travel and tourism partners, amplifying their family offering to our affluent family audience," Dent said.

Family Traveller also has an impressive roster of international travel and leisure advertisers, including some of the largest hotels, airlines, cruises, and ski resorts, among many more.

Learn more about Family Traveller Asia on their website here: https://familytraveller.com/asia/, or follow them on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram: @familytravellerasia

About Family Traveller Asia

Family Traveller Asia is the Asia expansion of Family Traveller, a fast-growing global media brand which provides over one million families around the world with inspiring travel content  all with the aim of helping them travel further, together. The publication covers a diverse array of destination ideas, vacation itineraries, tips, and deals across a range of holiday types and destinations, and is a one-stop travel-planning resource for all, including those travelling with infants, toddlers, school-age children, teenagers, and grandparents.

Story continues

Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/global-media-brand-family-traveller-announces-sentosa-singapore-as-official-launch-partner-in-asia-301798736.html

SOURCE Family Traveller Asia
Polaris Market Research & Consulting LLP

Polaris Market Research has conducted a comprehensive 2023 research study spanning over [+115] pages, revealing that the global military embedded systems market was valued at USD 1.64 Billion in 2022. The study predicts that the market will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.4%and is expected to reach USD 87.72 Billion By 2032. Software segment is expected to grow at a high CAGR during the anticipated period, which is mainly accelerated by its numerous advantages including easy portability and less space required. Some of the top market players are Intel Corporation, Mercury Systems, Curtiss-Wright Corporation, Advantech., BAE Systems, SMART Embedded Computing, SDK Embedded Systems and others.

New York, NY, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Polaris Market Research has published a new research report titled Military Embedded Systems Market Share, Size, Trends, Industry Analysis Report, By Platform Type (Land, Airborne, Naval, Unmanned, and Space); By Component; By Application; By Region; Segment Forecast, 2023 - 2032 in its research database.

According to the latest research analysis, the global military embedded systems market size/share is anticipated to be valued at approximately USD 1.64 Billion in 2022 and is projected to hit a revenue of around USD 3.68 Billion by 2032, at a CAGR of around 8.5% between 2023 and 2032.

What are Military Embedded Systems? How Big Is Military Embedded Systems Market Size & Share?

Report Overview

Military embedded systems contain embedded electronics for several military entreaties through the technical scope of varied zones of the design procedure. The rapidly rising demand for military embedded systems market can be attributed to the fact that they can function in a broad gamut of situations, from the paramount cold of the Arctic to the soaring temperatures of the desert. They can be disposed to combat vibrations, shocks, and other stresses that are confronted in the field.

Story continues

Prominent factors propelling the market growth are the market being notably impacted by the extensive use of multicore technologies and progression in wireless technologies and also the arrival of contemporary warfare systems that utilize electronic and network concentrated procedures. Multicore technologies which amalgamate numerous processing cores into a single chip, enhance the presentation productivity of computer gadgets such as 5G and wireless networking protocols.

Request Sample Copy of Military Embedded Systems Market Research Report @ https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/military-embedded-systems-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, a Table of Contents, a Graphical introduction of regional analysis, Top players in the market with their revenue analysis, and our research methodology.)

Our Sample Report Covers:

2032 Updated Report Introduction, Overview, and In-depth industry analysis.

115+ Pages Research Report (Inclusion of Updated Research).

Provide Chapter-wise guidance on Requests.

2023 Updated Regional Analysis with Graphical Representation of Size, Share & Trends

Includes Updated List of tables & figures.

Updated Report Includes Top Market Players with their Business Strategy, Sales Volume, and Revenue Analysis.

Some of the Top Market Players Are:

Intel Corporation

Mercury Systems

Curtiss-Wright Corporation

Advantech

BAE Systems

SMART Embedded Computing

SDK Embedded Systems

General Dynamics Corporation

Kontron

Xilinx

Renesas Electronics Corporation

Thales Group

Electronic Specifier

NXP Semiconductors

General Micro Systems

To Know an Additional List of Key Players, Request Here to Download a Free Report PDF Brochure: https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/military-embedded-systems-market/request-for-sample

Market drivers

Government funding : Government funding rambles in the military accounts are anticipated to fuel market expansion. The military embedded systems market size is expanding as streamlining military and defense apparatus is precedence for governments globally. Because of this situation, the global supply of analog applications and the market opportunity have grown notably.

Acceptance of multicore processors : The extensive acceptance of multi-core processors, insurgent warfare systems, and wireless technologies is expected to reinforce the development of market revenue in the course of the succeeding decades.

An amalgamation of digital technology : In the past few years, military embedded systems market sales are soaring as the world is conveying towards the more total amalgamation of digital technology into the current life for authorizing people digitally and impacting the relay of technology because of which electronics and communication industry have witnessed exponential growth. Thus there has been an outstanding development in the figures of the confluence of cyber and optical technologies.

Superior performance: Superior performance and lesser power intake are provided by multi-core CPUs. Proportionate multiprocessing is an ordinary application in military systems have been discovered to be extremely congenial with multi-core CPUs. These factors are anticipated to push the market growth.

Top report findings

Government funding rambles in the military accounts are anticipated to fuel market expansion.

The market is essentially divided into platform type, component, application, and region.

The leading region for this market is North America.

Request for a Discount on this Report Before Purchase @ https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/military-embedded-systems-market/request-for-discount-pricing

Top trends influencing the market

Progressive and established systems: The extensive distribution of progressive and established military embedded systems covering both developed and developing countries, as these systems are an ideal merger of software and hardware dependent on a microcontroller or microprocessor, are the significant factors impacting the market growth.

Rising productivity and permanence : There has been a notable development in the progressions of military supplications with soaring productivity, permanence, and coherence of formation together with increasing concentration by prominent companies on the advancement of existing systems and initiation to more progressive ones are probable to generate massive growth opportunities to the market in the near future.

Military unmanned technologies: Additionally, the speedily growing boost of unmanned military technologies and constant escalation in the funding from many armed forces globally for the acquisition of progressive unmanned systems for several contrasting assignments, including communications, investigation, strategic warfare potency, jamming, and supervision are additionally anticipated to subscribe affirmatively to demand and growth.

Segmental analysis

The naval segment accounted for the largest market share

Based on platform type, the naval segment accounted for the largest market share. Military embedded systems market demand is on the rise due to extensive utilization of these systems covering numerous naval applications involving combat ships and submarines, amongst others. Additionally, initiatives in context to the advancement of progressive self-governed warships and increasing digitalization in the marine industry, together with alteration in sensor system technology, are also driving the growth of the segment.

The software segment is expected to witness the fastest growth

Based on components, the software segment is expected to witness the fastest growth during the forecast period. Military embedded systems market trends include elements such as effortless portability and escalated relevance for mass production, and they are extremely compact than traditional computer systems.

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Military Embedded Systems Market: Report Scope

Report Attribute Details Revenue Forecast in 2032 USD 3.68 Billion Market size value in 2023 USD 1.77 Billion Expected CAGR Growth 8.5% from 2023  2032 Base Year 2022 Forecast Year 2023  2032 Top Market Players Intel Corporation, Mercury Systems Inc., Curtiss-Wright Corporation, Advantech Co. Ltd., BAE Systems, SMART Embedded Computing, SDK Embedded Systems Ltd., General Dynamics Corporation, Kontron, Xilinx Inc., Renesas Electronics Corporation, Thales Group, Electronic Specifier, NXP Semiconductors, and General Micro Systems Inc. Segments Covered By Platform Type, By Component, By Application, By Region Customization Options Customized purchase options are available to meet any research needs. Explore customized purchase options

Geographic Overview

North America: This region held the largest military embedded systems market share due to immense escalation in military disbursement by the US government to thoroughly ease the acquisition of established military embedded systems in the nations defensive zone and the strong existence of chief market companies in North America region is the important elements propelling the growth of the market in the region.

Asia Pacific: The important factor accountable for the growth of the regional market is the constant promotion of the military by advancing warfare platform technologies and the initiation of several contemporary communication gadgets in countries such as India, China, Indonesia, and Malaysia.

Browse the Detail Report Military Embedded Systems Market Share, Size, Trends, Industry Analysis Report, By Platform Type (Land, Airborne, Naval, Unmanned, and Space); By Component; By Application; By Region; Segment Forecast, 2023 - 2032 with in-depth TOC: https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/military-embedded-systems-market

For Additional Information OR Media Enquiry, Please Mail At: sales@polarismarketresearch.com

Recent Developments

In April 2022, Elbit Systems entered a partnership with Physical Sciences Inc. and Stanford University with an aim to develop night vision equipment for the US military that offers high capability in a smaller & lighter package. With the partnership, Elbit Systems, America will focus on providing night vision services with a wider bandwidth, situational awareness, & expanded night view.

In November 2022, Curtiss-Wright Corporation announced the completion of its acquisition of Keronite Group for a cash consideration of USD 35 million. Keronite is a leading provider of PEO surface treatment applications that offers corrosion resistance, wear protection, and thermal protection for defense and commercial aerospace.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the key companies in the market?

What is the CAGR estimated to be calculated for the market?

What are the key segments covered?

What are the key driving factors in the market?

What will be the market value estimated at the end of 2032?

Polaris Market Research has segmented the military embedded systems market report based on platform type, component, application, and region:

By Platform Type Outlook

Airborne

Land

Naval

Unmanned

Space

By Component Outlook

Hardware

Software

By Application Outlook

Radar

Command & Control

Avionics

Electronic Warfare

Communication & Navigation

Weapon Fire Control Systems

Others

By Region Outlook

North America (U.S., Canada)

Europe (France, Germany, UK, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Russia)

Asia Pacific (Japan, China, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, South Korea)

Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, Argentina)

Middle East & Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Israel, South Africa)

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About Polaris Market Research

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Future Market Insights Global and Consulting Pvt. Ltd.

The North American Palm oil market leads in the second number in terms of market share. The region held a market share of 13.3% in 2022. The United Kingdom is another significant market for palm oil. The European region held a market share of 10% of this region

NEWARK, Del, April 17, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The palm oil market is anticipated to expand its roots at an average CAGR of 4.48% between 2023 and 2033. The market is expected to have a market share of US$ 109.97 billion by 2033 while it is likely to be valued at US$ 70.95 billion in 2023



Palm oil of refined and non-refined grades have their applications that are spread wide through the industries, flourishing the demand for palm oil across the globe.

Restoration of industries like food, bakery, and packaged snack industry is booming the palm oil market as it is applied in 50% of the food products. These food products involve fried, baked, and frozen food items.

The use of palm oil as a secondary fuel or biofuel source is also gaining traction in the market. Alongside this, Southeast Asian economies are transitioning from a conventional source of energy to a sustainable source. This also fuels the sales of palm oil across the globe.

Some properties of palm oil such as no trans-fat and higher affordability make it a popular choice amongst local food outlets and eateries. Alongside this, its usage in palms and fertilizers is propelling its demand across the verticals.

For insights on global, regional, and country-level parameters with growth opportunities from 2023 to 2033 - Download a sample report @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-17039

Key Points

The United States market leads the palm oil market in terms of market share in North America. The North American region held a market share of 13.3% in 202 The growth in this region is attributed to the restoration of the food & beverage industry along with the changing eating lifestyle of people. The United Kingdoms palm oil market is another significant market in the European region. Europe, with higher tourist footfall, has an active food industry that cooks all kinds of food items. The rising popularity of ready-to-eat snacks is also fueling the demand for palm oil. The Chinese palm oil market is anticipated to thrive at a healthy CAGR during the forecast period. Asia-pacific region held a major market share of 72% in 2022. The growth is attributed to increased population, lower per capita incomes, and energy transition programs. The conventional nature type segment is leading the segment as it held a market share of 98% in 2022. The growth is attributed to the easy accessibility and higher palm oil production Based on the product type, the fractionated segment leads as it held a major global share of 40% in 2022.





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Competitive Landscape

The key vendors work on expanding their palm plantation along with the launch of different grades of palm oil. Key competitors and also merge, acquire, and partner with other companies to increase their supply chain, and distribution channel. The key players in the market are Archer Daniels Midland, Wilmar International Ltd., Sime Darby Plantation Berhad, IOI Corporation Berhad, Kuala Lumpur Kepong Berhad, United Plantations Berhad, Kulim (Malaysia) Berhad, IJM Corporation Berhad, PT Sampoerna Agro, Tbk, Univanich Palm Oil Public Company Ltd., PT. Bakrie Sumatera Plantations Tbk, Asian Agri, Agropalma S.A., Boustead Holdings Berhad, Fuji Vegetable Oil, Inc., New Britain Palm Oil Limited

Expand operations in the future - To get requisite details, ask for a custom report @ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/customization-available/rep-gb-17039

Recent Market Developments

Fuji oil group has introduced the Responsible Plan Oil Procurement Polic which sets out a commitment to zero forestation with no peatland available.

Asian Agri has revisited its palm oil grades with enhanced formulation and expanded palm oil plantation.

Palm Oil Market: Segmentation

By Nature:

Organic

Conventional

By Product Type:

CPO

RBD Palm Oil

Palm Kernel Oil

Fractionated Palm Oil

By End User:

Food & Beverages

Personal Care & Cosmetics

Pharmaceuticals

Biofuel & Energy

Others



Key Regions Covered:

North America

Latin America

Europe

Japan

Asia Pacific Excluding Japan

Middle East Africa

Grow your profit margin with Future Market Insights  Buy the report! https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/checkout/17039

Table of Content

1. Executive Summary | Palm Oil Market

1.1. Global Market Outlook

1.2. Demand-side Trends

1.3. Supply-side Trends

1.4. Technology Roadmap Analysis

1.5. Analysis and Recommendations

2. Market Overview

2.1. Market Coverage / Taxonomy

2.2. Market Definition / Scope / Limitations

3. Market Background

3.1. Market Dynamics

3.1.1. Drivers

3.1.2. Restraints

3.1.3. Opportunity

3.1.4. Trends

4. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast, 2023 to 2033

4.1. Historical Market Size Value (US$ Million) & Volume (Litre) Analysis, 2018 to 2022

4.2. Current and Future Market Size Value (US$ Million) & Volume (Litre) Projections, 2023 to 2033

4.2.1. Y-o-Y Growth Trend Analysis

5. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Nature

5.1. Introduction / Key Findings

5.2. Historical Market Size Value (US$ Million) & Volume (Litre) Analysis By Nature, 2018 to 2022

5.3. Current and Future Market Size Value (US$ Million) & Volume (Litre) Analysis and Forecast By Nature, 2023 to 2033

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SPHERICAL INSIGHTS LLP

The Global Retinal Detachment Disorder Market Size was valued at USD 1.7 billion in 2021 and the worldwide retinal detachment disorder market size is expected to reach USD 3.5 Billion by 2030, according to a research report published by Spherical Insights & Consulting. Companies Covered: Carl Zeiss Meditec, Centervue SpA, Lab Pensacola, Eyenuk Inc., Imagine Eyes, HealPros, LLC., NEUROVISION IMAGING, LLC., Optos, Peek Vision Ltd. And among others.

New York, United States, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Global Retinal Detachment Disorder Market Size is To Grow from USD 1.7 Billion in 2021 to USD 3.5 Billion by 2030, at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8.3% during the forecast period. The factors which are driving this growing share of the market are emerging markets and significant investment in research and development.

Get a Sample PDF Brochure: https://www.sphericalinsights.com/request-sample/1665

A disorder of retinal detachment is a disorder when the retina, the delicate layer of nerve tissue lining the back of the eye, separates from its normal position. Retinal detachment occurs when the layer of blood vessels that feeds and oxygenates the retinal cells becomes detached from them. Retinal detachment is a harmful eye disorder in which a thin layer of tissue (the retina) tears away from its normal place in the back of the eye. Longer instances of untreated retinal detachment raise the possibility of permanent vision loss in the affected eye. There are three main methods by that retinal detachment can happen, such as, rhegmatogenous, tractional, and exudative. According to WHO, about 80% of blindness worldwide is preventable, meaning the disease can be treated if the necessary information and medical measures are given at the appropriate time or arise from certain situations that can be avoided. Retinal breaks, tears, or holes are the most common causes of retinal detachments. Retinal detachment can cause complete or partial blindness, depending on how much of the retina has detached.

Story continues

The growing technological advancements and an increase in cases of retinal detachment are anticipated to propel the market share. An increase in the number of eye surgeries is also anticipated to drive growth in the market. Moreover, the market is expanding as a result of factors such as an aging population, a rise in the prevalence of eye conditions like diabetic retinopathy, as well as other factors. Increasing numbers of individuals are becoming aware of eye problems such as cataracts, glaucoma, dry eye disease, and others, which enhances the need for eye therapies and is expected to boost market growth during the forecast period. Furthermore, owing to the high cost of the equipment used in retinal surgery, the market growth of retinal detachment conditions is constrained. Additionally, the lack of qualified specialists is a restraint on expansion.

Browse key industry insights spread across 200 pages with 100 market data tables and figures & charts from the report on " Global Retinal Detachment Disorder Market Size , Share, and COVID-19 Impact Analysis, By Type (Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment, Tractional Retinal Detachment, Exudative Retinal Detachment), By Treatment (Photocoagulation [Laser Surgery], Cryopexy [Freezing], Pneumatic Retinopexy, Scleral Buckling and Vitrectomy), By End Users (Hospitals, Clinics, Speciality Centers, and Others), By Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East, and Africa)), Analysis and Forecast 2021  2030". Get Detailed Report Description Here:

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COVID 19 Impact

The market for retinal detachment disorders has been impacted by COVID-19. The governments-imposed limitations and lockdown measures have interrupted the medical care provided in eye clinics and hospitals, which has reduced the need for equipment. For instance, from the pre-pandemic to the pandemic period, there was a 41.6% decrease in rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) procedures in France, according to a study that was published in november 2021 in the British Journal of Ophthalmology. As a result, the demand for instruments, accessories, and other surgical items has fallen as a result of the reduced surgical procedures for RD, which has had an influence on market growth throughout the pandemic period. The need for eye surgery has increased, though, as a result of the procedures being resumed and the rise in hospital visits. The market is therefore anticipated to expand and recover.

The rhegmatogenous segment is holding the largest market share over the forecast period.

Based on the types, the global retinal detachment disorder market is bifurcated into different segments include, rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, tractional retinal detachment, and exudative retinal detachment. Among these, the rhegmatogenous segment is dominating the market share over the forecast period due to rhegmatogenous retinal detachment being increasingly prevalent in the older population. According to the United Nations' 2017 "World Aging Population" research, as the world's older population grows, more people are expected to suffer from RRD, and early disorder discovery helps patients avoid financial hardship as a result.

The hospital segment is dominating the market share during the forecast period.

Based on the end users, the global retinal detachment market is segmented into hospitals, clinics, specialty centers, and others. Among these segments, the hospital segment is dominating the largest market share due to the hospital segment offers a variety of treatments for retinal detachment, including surgery, laser therapy, and cryotherapy (freezing), which could boost market share during the projection period. Additionally, hospitals with modern facilities and sufficient resources can treat the growing number of individuals who suffer from this disorder.

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Global Retinal Detachment Disorder Market, By Treatment

The retinal detachment market, by treatment, has been segmented into different segments, such as photocoagulation (laser surgery), cryopexy (freezing), pneumatic retinopexy, scleral buckling, and vitrectomy.

North America is dominating the largest market share of 41.3% during the forecast period

North America accounts for the largest market share during the forecast period, owing to the Increasing awareness of retinal detachment in this region and an increase in the number of patients with this condition. Furthermore, due to the presence of a strong healthcare infrastructure with access to cutting-edge technologies, this region would dominate the market during the projected period

The Asia Pacific region is predicted to expand at the fastest growth rate over the projected period, due to a growing elderly population and efficient reimbursement policies.

Competitive Analysis:

The report offers the appropriate analysis of the key organizations/companies involved within the global market along with a comparative evaluation primarily based on their product offering, business overviews, geographic presence, enterprise strategies, segment market share, and SWOT analysis. The report also provides an elaborative analysis focusing on the current news and developments of the companies, which includes product development, innovations, joint ventures, partnerships, mergers & acquisitions, strategic alliances, and others. This allows for the evaluation of the overall competition within the market. Major vendors in the Global Retinal Detachment Disorder Market include Carl Zeiss Meditec AG, Meridian AG, IRIDEX Corporation, Ellex Medical Lasers Ltd, FCI, Millennium Surgical Corp., BVM Medical Limited, Lombart Instrument, Inc., Welch Allyn, and many others.

Get Discount At @ https://www.sphericalinsights.com/request-discount/1665

Recent Development

December 2022: In Vashi, Navi Mumbai, ASG Eye Hospitals opened a brand-new specialist eye hospital for the treatment of simple to the most complex eye disorder. The hospital provides scleral buckling operations, vitrectomy treatments, and pneumatic retinopexy procedures for retinal detachment.

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By Blake Brittain

(Reuters) - Alphabet's Google LLC on Tuesday convinced a U.S. appeals court to cancel three anti-malware patents at the heart of a Texas jury's $20 million infringement verdict against the company.

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit said that Alfonso Cioffi and Allen Rozman's patents were invalid because they contained inventions that were not included in an earlier version of the patent.

Google spokesperson Jose Castaneda said the company appreciated the decision. Representatives for the inventors did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Cioffi and the late Rozman's daughters sued Google in East Texas federal court in 2013, alleging anti-malware functions in Google's Chrome web browser infringed their patents for technology that prevents malware from accessing critical files on a computer.

A jury decided in 2017 that Google infringed the patents and awarded the plaintiffs $20 million plus ongoing royalties, which their attorney said at the time were expected to total about $7 million per year for the next nine years.

But the Federal Circuit said Tuesday that all of the patents were invalid. The three patents were reissued from an earlier anti-malware patent, and federal law required the new patents to cover the same invention as the first, the unanimous three-judge panel concluded.

The appeals court said the new patents outlined technology specific to web browsers that the first patent did not mention.

The case is Cioffi v. Google LLC, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, No. 18-1049.

(Reporting by Blake Brittain in Washington)
(Bloomberg) -- Greenpeace said its suing the European Unions executive over its decision to grant some gas and nuclear power stations a fake green label under EU sustainable finance rules.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Four other environmental groups  Transport & Environment, WWF, ClientEarth and BUND  are also objecting to the inclusion of gas in the EUs so-called taxonomy. They said the cases will be filed at the EUs General Court on Tuesday.

Polluters are already using this fake label to siphon green finance away from where its needed, said Ariadna Rodrigo, EU sustainable finance campaigner at Greenpeace. By rejecting the European Commissions dishonest attempt to greenwash gas and nuclear, the court can give the EU a fighting chance of reaching the finish line.

The taxonomy is a list of economic activities, from car manufacturing to IT, that are in line with the blocs legally-binding goal to be climate neutral by the middle of the century. The aim is to encourage investments into those sectors in order to spur the transition.

The inclusion of gas has been particularly controversial because burning the fuel emits carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, albeit less than coal. Activists say the extra investments in gas infrastructure could be in breach of the EUs climate goals.

The Brussels-based commission said its taken note of the lawsuits, but would not comment on the substance of the case before EU court judgments are delivered.

While nuclear power is emissions-free, there are still environmental concerns over the waste it produces and that it could suck investments away from renewable technologies like wind and solar.

Story continues

Read more: EUs Fake Green Label for Gas and Nuclear Under Legal Attack

Last September, the environmental groups urged the the commission to review the inclusion of gas and nuclear. In February, the commission replied saying it had acted lawfully.

The nonprofits expect that a judgment could be reached in 2025 that would force the commission to review the act governing gas and nuclear. Austria and Luxembourg have started their own legal effort.

--With assistance from Stephanie Bodoni.

(Updates with EU response in sixth paragraph)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
SkyQuest Technology Consulting Pvt. Ltd.

SkyQuest's Automotive Instrument Cluster Market report is an excellent analysis for individuals interested in gaining insight into the valuable data, trends, and opportunities in a rapidly growing industry. Additionally, the report is written clearly and concisely, making it accessible to various audiences, from industry experts to market readers. Finally, one can gain an in-depth understanding of the primary and secondary market drivers, providing them with a comprehensive outlook of the current market situation and future projections.

Westford, USA, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- SkyQuest projects that the Automotive Instrument Cluster Market will attain a value of USD 12.66 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of 5.1% over the forecast (2022-2030). The market is being driven by an increasing preference for digital solutions. Manufacturers are transforming traditional automotive solutions into all-digital solutions. As a result, consumers are becoming more interested in digital vehicle interior solutions. Manufacturers are concentrating their efforts on developing digital systems for both entry-level and luxury vehicles. As cluster technology advances, such as rich graphics, retina-class resolution, photorealistic rendering, and smartphone integration, digital systems are becoming more popular.

According to the SkyQuest's, According to Automotive Instrument Cluster market analysis, the market is being driven by the adoption of new technology, a high demand for electronic-driven instrument panels, and a preference for digital solutions. Furthermore, globalization and industrialization are two of the most difficult factors influencing market development. However, rising costs for digital devices and displays, as well as integration costs are slowing market growth. Furthermore, an increase in navigation rate and increase in energy flow rate have provided some opportunities for propelling market size.

Browse in-depth TOC on "Automotive Instrument Cluster Market"

Pages - 263

Tables - 62

Figures - 66

Story continues

Get a sample copy of this report:

https://www.skyquestt.com/sample-request/automotive-instrument-cluster-market

The Instrument cluster serves as the driver's primary data source, providing information on the vehicle's various operational parameters. It transmits data from the vehicle, such as speed, fuel level, tachometer and temperature, as well as data from the in-vehicle network, cameras and multimedia. Cluster graphics platforms are used to display graphics data on a display, cluster controller platforms are used to handle AUTOSAR stack functionality, and integrated cluster platforms combine graphics controller and real-time application controller capability.

Prominent Players in Automotive Instrument Cluster Market

 Continental AG

 YAZAKI Corporation

 Calsonic Kansei Corporation

 IAC Group

 NVIDIA Corporation

 Robert Bosch GmbH

 DENSO Corporation

 Delphi Automotive LLP

 Visteon Corporation

 Magneti Marelli S.p.A.

 HARMAN International

 Kyocera International, Inc.

 MTA S.p.A.

 Nippon Seiki Co., Ltd.

 Stoneridge Inc.

 Pricol Ltd.

 Simco, Ltd.

 Alpine electronics, Inc.

 Innolux Corporation

 Japan display Inc.

 Luxoft

 Mitsubishi Electric

 Mentor Graphics

 Qualcomm

Browse summary of the report and Complete Table of Contents (ToC):

https://www.skyquestt.com/report/automotive-instrument-cluster-market

Hybrid Segment Is Expected to Dominate the Market Due to Increased Rise In Electric Vehicles and Adoption of Hybrid Instrument Clusters

The hybrid segment is expected to dominate the market share of Automotive Instrument Cluster, throughout the forecast period. The hybrid system is a combination of digital and analogue displays that displays information in both formats, such as speed, fuel economy, mileage and temperature. The analogue system consists of a speedometer and an odometer, whereas the digital display system consists of an LCD screen that displays all pertinent information such as temperature, distance travelled, traffic data and other warning indicators. The digital system is expected to dominate the market during the forecast period.

North America held the largest market share of the market because of the region's increasing adoption of the new advanced Automotive Instrument Cluster. United States dominates the region due to its rapid adoption of advanced technologies and development in the Automotive Instrument Cluster industry. Furthermore, the presence of key players in North American countries is expected to provide significant opportunities for the market.

Passenger Car is Dominating the Market Due to Rising Urbanization

During the forecast period, the passenger car segment is expected to dominate the market. The market is dominated by entry-level and mid-sized cars in the passenger car segment. Furthermore, a high population rate, an improved standard of living and an increase in people's disposable income are driving up sales and production of passenger cars, ultimately increasing global demand for passenger cars.

Asia-Pacific currently holds the largest market share and is expected to continue to do throughout the forecast period. India, China and Japan are some of the major countries driving market growth in this region. Government initiatives for the automotive industry in various developing countries such as India and China are ultimately contributing to the growth of the market. Asia-Pacific is followed by Europe, the market's second-largest region, which is expected to grow significantly over the forecast period.

A comprehensive analysis of the major players in the Automotive Instrument Cluster market has been recently conducted in a report. The report encompasses various aspects, including collaborations, mergers, innovative business policies, and strategies, providing valuable insights into key trends and breakthroughs in the market. Furthermore, the report scrutinizes the market share of the top segments and presents a detailed geographic analysis. Lastly, the report highlights the major players in the industry and their endeavors to develop innovative solutions to cater to the growing demand.

Speak to Analyst for your custom requirements:

https://www.skyquestt.com/speak-with-analyst/automotive-instrument-cluster-market

Key Developments in Automotive Instrument Cluster Market

In September 2022, "System on Chip" (SoC) semiconductors, which are increasingly used in automotive control units, will be a growing area of expertise for Bosch.

In November 2021, Robert Bosch GmbH (Bosch) announced its Engineering Centre in Sofia. The Bosch Engineering Centre Sofia is responsible for the development of technologies such as vehicle electrification, connectivity solutions, displays, instrument clusters, and driver monitoring systems.

Key Questions Answered in Automotive Instrument Cluster Market Report

What specific growth drivers are projected to impact the market during the forecast period?

Can you list the top companies in the market and explain how they have achieved their positions of influence?

In what ways do regional trends and patterns differ within the global market, and how might these differences shape the market's future growth?

Related Reports in SkyQuests Library:

Global Automotive Cup Holder Market

Global Automotive Piston Market

Global Train Wire Harness Market

Global Engine Valves Market

Global Automotive Retrofit Electric Vehicle Powertrain Market

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(Bloomberg) -- Classrooms across Tucson, Arizona, were ravaged by ransomware in January that locked up computer systems and forced teachers to revamp lesson plans. Officials in southern Arizonas largest school district tried assuring students and staff for weeks that, despite the cyberattack, sensitive data wasnt stolen.

Most Read from Bloomberg

But Bloomberg News found that cybercriminals made off with gigabytes of files, containing tens of thousands of current and former employees Social Security numbers and other confidential records. They then uploaded the information in February to the dark web for anyone to access with an easily downloadable browser. The data were still accessible as recently as April 17.

Examples of the leaked files include a high schoolers medical records; another detailed arguments for expelling several students. There are documents showing a confidential settlement agreement with Joann Anderson, a former employee who had previously sued the Tucson Unified School District in federal court, alleging discrimination.

They told me, There was no evidence of a data breach, Anderson said of a recent conversation with a school district lawyer, who, she says, told her that nothing was taken.

Ransomware can wreak havoc: Financial institutions flagged almost $1.2 billion in likely ransomware-related payments in 2021 alone, according to the US Treasury Department. Many cases go unreported, so the actual number may be higher. And as TUSDs attack shows, ransomware isnt just costly, but it can jeopardize the privacy of private citizens  including children  and undermine confidence in school systems.

Story continues

Last fall, a different group stole gigabytes of data from the Los Angeles public school system, the nations second-largest. A subsequent report found that leak contained hundreds of students' mental-health records. (A spokesperson for the Los Angeles Unified School District said individuals were notified if their data was posted online.) Cybercriminals frequently use similar tactics to go after businesses, high-net-worth individuals and critical infrastructure.

In response to written questions from Bloomberg, TUSD spokeswoman Leslie Lenhart said an investigation so far showed no indication that Social Security numbers belonging to tens of thousands of employees were accessible, or that anyone could view them on the dark web. No instruction time was lost, she said. Schools remained open throughout the event. Systems were safely restored and recovered.

Lenhart said senior TUSD leadership was unavailable for an interview with Bloomberg, including Superintendent Gabriel Trujillo, whom she said was on leave.

By late March, after Bloomberg began contacting people affected by the breach, Trujillo said in a staff email that unspecified employee information of a confidential and sensitive nature was accessed, but not Social Security numbers. Bloomberg found more than 16,000 numbers and birth dates tied to current and former employees on the dark web.

Another leaked document included confidential records concerning a high school student's diabetes diagnosis and instructions for their insulin injections. Parents for the student, whom Bloomberg is not naming, didnt respond to inquiries seeking comment.

Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts a victims computers, essentially taking it out of the owners control. The attackers then demand a ransom payment to unlock the data. In addition to encrypting files and demanding money, some attackers also steal private troves of data and threaten to release it if their demands arent met. Ransomware groups like the notorious Conti gang have encumbered critical infrastructure globally, including Irelands public health system in 2021. Lenhart said the TUSD didnt engage with the attackers or pay a ransom.

Brett Callow, who tracks ransomware attacks for the cybersecurity firm Emsisoft, said school systems face unusual challenges. Budget-strapped districts are often under pressure to prioritize student resources, teacher pay and buildings in disrepair over cybersecurity spending, he said. Attacks are cheap, Callow said. They don't need big or frequent payouts to get a return on investment.

The Tucson attack began sometime about Jan. 30, interviews and documents show. One morning, staffers were greeted by a message from the attackers, who used a type of ransomware called Royal, sent to printers across the district. If you are reading this, it means that your system were [sic] hit by Royal ransomware, the author wrote. Since the beginning, the group indicated that some of TUSD's data could be uploaded online for anyone to see.

For the next two weeks, teachers and staff had to improvise lesson plans and come up with makeshift attendance-taking, documents and interviews show. Electronic grade books, email access and other key services were down as the districts internet connection was cut. It was hard to keep stuff accountable, said Rueben Loya, who's taught music for two decades. We didn't even have the kids' parents' phone numbers, he said, which added to confusion over who was allowed to pick up students at dismissal.

Days after the attack, documents show, employees were instructed to install a malware scanner made by CrowdStrike Holdings Inc., a major firm that responds to cyberattacks. Lenhart, the district spokeswoman, said cybersecurity firm PacketWatch began an initial investigation on behalf of the Arizona Risk Retention Trust insurance program.

Other district staff grew frustrated at what they considered a lack of answers. Not [too] happy with the confusion and lack of transparency, one employee replied to their colleagues in an email seen by Bloomberg. Some states require that cyberattacks on school districts be disclosed to state officials; others have no reporting requirement, according to Allan Liska, a ransomware analyst with the firm Recorded Future Inc.

Campus computer outages, however, were only the beginning of the headaches for TUSD employees. Several teachers interviewed by Bloomberg expressed alarm that their private data was freely available for the taking. Officials, they said, initially offered resources for credit monitoring, but provided few details on the extent of the data leak.

The cybercriminals behind the Royal ransomware applied pressure beyond school leadership. In one email seen by Bloomberg, the hackers claimed to have sent a message to 140 TUSD email addresses containing copies of a half-dozen passports and evidence of gigabytes of data they said they stole: Just imagine what will happen if such data leak into the internet. (Royal attacks have also targeted the manufacturing and health care sectors.)

Your company will face reputational and financial harm among [sic] with regulatory and legal penalties, the attackers taunted shortly after the attack in late January. Hurry up!

The education sector is among the least likely to pay, Liska said. He said nearly two dozen school systems have already been attacked this year, adding to more than 200 school districts hit since early 2020. Ransomware groups are still attracted to these targets, he said.

The ransomware scourge has grown so concerning worldwide that the Biden administration hosted nearly three dozen countries last fall for a summit in Washington. The pace and sophistication of those intrusions is increasing faster than the US governments ability to disrupt them, a senior administration official said late last year.

I wish that there was more openness about the possibilities of what could go wrong when this happens, Margaret Chaney, president of the Tucson Education Association, a teachers' union, said in an interview. You don't want to needlessly panic people. But I'm an adult, and I need to make my own decisions.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Harri

One of the Fastest Growing Restaurant Brands Turns to HR Tech Leader for Recruiting, Onboarding and Workforce Management Solutions

NEW YORK, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Harri, the revolutionary Frontline Employee Experience platform serving over 20,000 restaurant and hotel locations and four million hospitality employees globally, announced details of its engagement with Hawaiian Bros, the fast-growing, award-winning restaurant concept. Hawaiian Bros currently has more than 30 restaurants across six states in the U.S. The company started expanding its franchise opportunities in late 2022 and, most recently, announced a multi-unit franchise agreement with Stine Enterprises to develop 75 units in Arizona and North Texas.



Working together since 2020, Hawaiian Bros leverages Harris talent attraction , applicant tracking and onboarding solutions to deliver a seamless new hire experience while effectively communicating its unique employer brand. Additionally, Hawaiian Bros relies on Harris time and attendance solutions to enable employees to clock in and out of shifts accurately while ensuring compliance with local wage and hour rules.

Since its inception, Hawaiian Bros has been recognized nationally, including QSRs Best Brands to Work For. Committed to preserving the distinct ethos of its organization, Hawaiian Bros seeks to partner with vendors such as Harri that align with its ohana culture and Aloha Spirit: showing kindness and treating everyone like family in everything they do.

Always receptive to our need to scale quickly and confidently, Harri provides the agility, data and depth of functionality that Hawaiian Bros requires, said Aaron Bowen, Executive Director, People Solutions, Hawaiian Bros Island Grill. A significant part of what weve accomplished to support the candidate and employee experience is due to our partnership with Harri.

Luke Fryer, CEO of Harri, commented, Were excited to develop our relationship with Hawaiian Bros. Harri shares their founding principles of respecting the dignity of every individual and creating cultures of inclusion. Its an honor to be an integral part to their continued growth.

Story continues

For information about career opportunities at Hawaiian Bros, please visit https://harri.com/hawaiianbros .

About Harri

Harri is the global leader in Frontline Employee Experience. The Harri platform is built for companies that have service at the heart of their business and believe that the customer experience will never exceed the employee experience. The Harri suite of talent attraction, workforce management, employee engagement and compliance technologies enable organizations to intelligently attract, manage, engage and retain the best talent to run and improve their business. Harri serves over 22,000 restaurant and hotel locations and four million hospitality employees globally, with emerging growth in retail and healthcare. To learn more, visit www.harri.com .

About Hawaiian Bros

At Hawaiian Bros, we're inspired every day to spread the Aloha Spirit. To show kindness and respect, and to treat everyone as 'ohana, like family, in everything we do. Founded on the principles of honor, inclusion and gratitude, we respect the dignity and self-worth of every team member and guest. We value our differences and celebrate our common ground. And we say "thank you" often, emphasizing the positives in our lives every day. Hawaiian Bros owns and operates more than 25 restaurants serving the Aloha spirit in six states across America and is expanding its franchise opportunities in selected states in 2023.

For more information, visit www.hawaiianbros.com .

CONTACT: Note to editors: Trademarks and registered trademarks referenced herein remain the property of their respective owners. Media Contact: Kate Achille The Devon Group for Harri kate@devonpr.com




The dynamics of the HER2+ non-small cell lung cancer market are anticipated to change in the coming years owing to the improvement in the diagnosis methodologies, raising awareness of the diseases, incremental healthcare spending across the world and increasing incidence during the forecast period of 2023-2032

LAS VEGAS, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- DelveInsight's HER2+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Market Insights report includes a comprehensive understanding of current treatment practices, HER2+ non-small cell lung cancer emerging drugs, market share of individual therapies, and current and forecasted market size from 2019 to 2032, segmented into 7MM [the United States, the EU-4 (Italy, Spain, France, and Germany), the United Kingdom, and Japan].

DelveInsight_Logo

Key Takeaways from the HER2+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Market Report

As per DelveInsight analysis, the HER2+ non-small cell lung cancer market is expected to grow positively at a significant CAGR during the study period (20192032).

According to Auliac et al. (2019), in France, in non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLCs), HER2 mutation is a rare event, occurring in approximately 1% of the overall lung cancer population. This rate increases to 4.8% in EGFR wild-type lung adenocarcinoma resection specimens.

Leading HER2+ non-small cell lung cancer companies such as Fate Therapeutics, Eli Lilly and Company, Pharmacyclics LLC, MacroGenics, Taiho Oncology, Inc., Jiangsu HengRui Medicine, Hanmi Pharmaceutical, Spectrum Pharmaceuticals, AstraZeneca, Daiichi Sankyo, Dizal Pharmaceuticals, Takeda Pharmaceuticals, and others are developing novel HER2+ non-small cell lung cancer drugs that can be available in the HER2+ non-small cell lung cancer market in the coming years.

Some key therapies for HER2+ non-small cell lung cancer treatment include FATE-NK100, Abemaciclib, FT538, FT536, Ibrutinib + Durvalumab, MGD013, TAS-116, Pyrotinib, Poziotinib, Trastuzumab deruxtecan, DZD9008, Mobocertinib (TAK-788) , and others.

The emerging HER2+ non-small cell lung cancer therapies are in their clinical trials' mid and late phases and are awaiting a launch to make the pipeline robust.

Story continues

Discover which therapies are expected to grab the major HER2+ non-small cell lung cancer market share @ HER2+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Market Report

HER2+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Overview

NSCLC is the most common type of lung cancer, accounting for over 85% of all cases. Adenocarcinomas, squamous, big cell carcinomas, and numerous other forms that occur less commonly, including adenosquamous and sarcomatoid carcinomas, are the most common subtypes of NSCLC. Several adenocarcinoma genes are altered (by mutations, amplification, or rearrangements): EGFR, EML4-ALK, KRAS, ROS1, RET, BRAF, TP53, and FGFR1, PIK3CA, DDR2, MET, SOX2, PTEN, CDKN2A.

HER2 changes in NSCLC include gene mutations and amplifications. HER2 mutations and amplifications have been found in 2-3% and 2-5% of lung adenocarcinomas, respectively. HER2 is shown to be increased in 12-13% of NSCLC cases that have developed resistance to EGFR-TKIs. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) for protein overexpression, fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) for gene amplification, and next-generation sequencing (NGS) for gene alterations are all laboratory methods used to test HER2-positive in NSCLC.

HER2+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Epidemiology Segmentation

As per the study conducted by Ninomiya et al. (2019), in Japan, out of 1,126 tumors screened tumors, 34 (3.0%) were IHC3, and 34 (3.0%) were IHC2/ FISH. Among the 724 epidermal growth factor receptor wild-type tumors, 21 (2.9%) were HER2-mutant tumors, including A775-G776insYVMA (n=15). Female patients had HER2-mutant tumors more frequently, whereas both IHC3 and IHC2/FISH tumors were detected more often in male subjects and smokers. Patients with a HER2-aberrant tumor had a significantly worse prognosis than those with epidermal growth factor receptor-positive and anaplastic lymphoma kinase-positive tumors, possibly due to the low proportion that received HER2-targeted therapies (n=15 [26%]) and low response rates of 0% and 14% in patients with HER2-overexpressing and HER2-mutant tumors, respectively.

The HER2+ non-small cell lung cancer market report proffers epidemiological analysis for the study period 20192032 in the 7MM segmented into:

Total Incident Cases of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Total Incident Cases of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients by Histology

Total Diagnosed Cases of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer patients by Stages

Total Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cases of Patients by HER2-positive Mutation

Total Treated Cases of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients by Line of Therapies

Download the report to understand which factors are driving HER2+ non-small cell lung cancer epidemiology trends @ HER2+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Epidemiological Insights

HER2+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Treatment Market

There are currently no approved drugs for HER2-mutant lung malignancies, while treatment responses to both chemotherapies and HER2-targeted therapies have been recorded. Developing highly effective and tolerated HER2-targeted therapies is critical for this population. HER2 is important in cellular development and replication, and its overexpression has been linked to the uncontrolled growth of cancer. Given the clinical experience of targeting HER2 mutations in breast cancer, similar therapeutic options are being investigated for HER2-mutated lung cancer. Pemetrexed-based chemotherapy is still an important part of treatment for patients with HER2-mutant NSCLC. Pemetrexed belongs to a class of drugs known as antifolate antineoplastic agents. It works by preventing the function of a chemical in the body that may aid in the proliferation of cancer cells.

When provided as an initial therapy, HER2-TKI may provide better therapeutic advantages than when given as a second-line therapy. Refining the patient population based on HER2 variation patterns may aid in the success of anti-HER2 treatment in lung cancer.HER2 mutations are rapidly emerging as a promising pharmacological target, although the optimal choice of HER2-targeted medicines is unknown. For HER2-mutant advanced lung cancer patients, standard chemotherapy appears to be administered first.

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) recommends trastuzumab or afatinib as viable therapies for patients with HER2 mutations in non-small cell lung cancer. Several phase I/II trials are now underway to evaluate the efficacy of various irreversible pan-HER receptor family inhibitors. Currently, the HER2 mutation is emerging as a promising druggable target; however, the optimal choice of targeted therapy is unknown.

To know more about HER2+ non-small cell lung cancer treatment, visit @ HER2+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Treatment Drugs

Key HER2+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Therapies and Companies

FATE-NK100: Fate Therapeutics

Abemaciclib: Eli Lilly and Company

FT538: Fate Therapeutics

FT536: Fate Therapeutics

Ibrutinib + Durvalumab: Pharmacyclics LLC

MGD013: MacroGenics

TAS-116: Taiho Oncology, Inc.

Pyrotinib: Jiangsu HengRui Medicine

Poziotinib: Hanmi Pharmaceutical/Spectrum Pharmaceuticals

Trastuzumab deruxtecan: AstraZeneca/Daiichi Sankyo

DZD9008: Dizal Pharmaceuticals

Mobocertinib (TAK-788): Takeda Pharmaceuticals

Learn more about the FDA-approved drugs for HER2+ non-small cell lung cancer @ Drugs for HER2+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Treatment

HER2+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Market Dynamics

The dynamics of the HER2+ non-small cell lung cancer market are expected to change in the next years due to developments in diagnosis methodologies, increased disease awareness, increased healthcare spending globally, and breakthroughs in research and development. In addition, several leading pharma companies are working diligently to develop therapies for HER2+ non-small cell lung cancer treatment. Moreover, the pipeline for HER2+ non-small cell lung cancer is quite robust; many prospective therapies are being researched for HER2+ non-small cell lung cancer treatment, and it is safe to expect that the HER2+ non-small cell lung cancer treatment space will have a substantial impact on the HER2+ non-small cell lung cancer market throughout the forecast period. The predicted launch of novel therapies with improved efficacy is expected to drive the growth of the HER2+ non-small cell lung cancer market in the 7MM.

However, several factors are impeding the growth of the HER2+ non-small cell lung cancer market. Moreover, the HER2+ non-small cell lung cancer market growth may be offset by failures and discontinuation of emerging therapies, unaffordable pricing, market access and reimbursement issues, and a shortage of healthcare specialists. In addition, the undiagnosed, unreported cases and the unawareness about the disease may also impact the HER2+ non-small cell lung cancer market growth.

Report Metrics Details Study Period 20192032 Coverage 7MM [The United States, the EU-4 (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain), the United Kingdom, and Japan] Base Year 2019 Key HER2+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Companies Fate Therapeutics, Eli Lilly and Company, Pharmacyclics LLC, MacroGenics, Taiho Oncology, Inc., Jiangsu HengRui Medicine, Hanmi Pharmaceutical, Spectrum Pharmaceuticals, AstraZeneca, Daiichi Sankyo, Dizal Pharmaceuticals, Takeda Pharmaceuticals, and others Key HER2+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Therapies FATE-NK100, Abemaciclib, FT538, FT536, Ibrutinib + Durvalumab, MGD013, TAS-116, Pyrotinib, Poziotinib, Trastuzumab deruxtecan, DZD9008, Mobocertinib (TAK-788), and others

Scope of the HER2+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Market Report

Therapeutic Assessment: HER2+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer current marketed and emerging therapies

HER2+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Market Dynamics: Attribute Analysis of Emerging HER2+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Drugs

Competitive Intelligence Analysis: SWOT analysis and Market entry strategies

Unmet Needs, KOL's views, Analyst's views, HER2+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Market Access and Reimbursement

Discover more about HER2+ non-small cell lung cancer drugs in development @ HER2+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Clinical Trials

Table of Contents

1. HER2+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Market Key Insights 2. HER2+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Market Report Introduction 3. HER2+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Market Overview at a Glance 4. HER2+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Market Executive Summary 5. Disease Background and Overview 6. HER2+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Treatment and Management 7. HER2+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Epidemiology and Patient Population 8. Patient Journey 9. HER2+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Marketed Drugs 10. HER2+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Emerging Drugs 11. Seven Major HER2+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Market Analysis 12. HER2+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Market Outlook 13. Potential of Current and Emerging Therapies 14. KOL Views 15. HER2+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Market Drivers 16. HER2+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Market Barriers 17. Unmet Needs 18. SWOT Analysis 19. Appendix 20. DelveInsight Capabilities 21. Disclaimer 22. About DelveInsight

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HER2+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Epidemiology Forecast

HER2+ Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Epidemiology Forecast  2032 report delivers an in-depth understanding of the disease, historical and forecasted HER2+ non-small cell lung cancer epidemiology in the 7MM, i.e., the United States, EU5 (Germany, Spain, Italy, France, and the United Kingdom), and Japan.

HER2-mutant Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Pipeline

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Contrive Datum Insights Pvt Ltd

According to a market research study published by Contrive Datum Insights, The market for home security systems is expanding because crime is increasing, computers are getting better at remotely monitoring people, and more people are interested in smart homes.

Farmington, April 17, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Home Security Systems Market Report Share Is Estimated To Be USD 56.9 Billion In 2022 And Expected To Reach USD 104.9 Billion By 2030, At A CAGR Of 8.2% From 2023 To 2030. Key factors driving the growth of this market increasing numbers of individuals use the Internet of Things (IoT) and wireless devices.

IoT-based security systems send out immediate alerts to ensure the safety of individuals. Intelligent detection checks for changes in motion, heat, and sound and notifies the user. IoT enhances the intelligence of tools by granting them access to vast quantities of high-quality data.

Request Sample Copy of Report  The home security systems market Size, Share & Trends Estimation Report By Type Outlook (Independent Homes, Apartments), By System Outlook (Fire Protection systems, Video Surveisllance Systems, Access Control Systems, Entrance Control Systems, Intruder Alarm Systems), By services Outlook (Security System Integration Services, Remote Monitoring Services, Fire Protection Services, Video Surveillance Services, Access control Services), By Security Outlook (Professionally-Installed and Monitored, Self-Installed and Professionally Monitored, Do-It-Yourself (DIY), Region and Forecasts, 2023 - 2030 , published by Contrive Datum Insights.

Segmentation Overview:

Type Outlook:

In 2022, over 63% of total revenue was generated by the wired alarm segment. Wire-based intrusion detectors are more prevalent, but digital alarms are simpler to install. Intruder alarms have gained popularity in recent years as technology has improved and people have become more safety-conscious. Some burglar detectors also utilize instruments for electrical fields, vibrations, sounds, capacitance, and photoelectric beams.

Story continues

In May 2022, for instance, Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology Co., Ltd. announced that a new AX Hybrid PRO alarm system would be released. The system offers both tethered and wireless protection, giving it greater flexibility and making wireless integration simpler. The alarm system is applicable in factories, banks, offices, and retail establishments, among other locations.

The wireless alarm segment is anticipated to have the highest CAGR over the coming years. Wireless commercial security systems offer a greater variety of specialized protection features, are less expensive to install, and are simpler to update than wired systems.

For instance, Inovonics Wireless Corporation announced in October 2021 that the Inovonics mobile duress would be available. The Inovonics mobile duress is designed to provide an exact room and floor level location when an Inovonics pendant is activated. Built on the Inovonics cloud platform, the solution combines dependable hardware with advanced API and software features that simplify data access and system integration.

Regional Analysis:

The global market for home security systems has been analyzed in various regions, including North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, the Middle East, and India, among others. In the near future, the global region will dominate this market.

North America held the highest market share in 2021. Internet of Things (IoT) and other modern technologies used to enhance the quality of life in North America are driving the rapid growth of the home security systems and solutions market. In addition, the residential sector in the region offers a comprehensive selection of services, including home security systems and solutions. North America will account for 35 to 40 percent of the global demand for residential security systems and solutions in 2021. Europe holds the second largest market share in 2021. Over the next five years, Asia-Pacific is anticipated to dominate the global home security market with a CAGR of 12.2%. This is because the region's economy is rapidly expanding and its technology is improving. Due to increased demand for smart buildings and their construction, as well as security concerns in the area. The market in Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa is anticipated to expand at a moderate rate during the forecast period.

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https://www.contrivedatuminsights.com/buy/45538

Scope of Report:

Report Attributes Details Growth Rate CAGR of 8.2% from 2023 to 2030. Revenue Forecast by 2030 $104.9 billion By Home Type Independent Homes

Apartments By Systems Fire Protection systems

Video Surveisllance Systems

Access Control Systems

Entrance Control Systems

Intruder Alarm Systems By Security Professionally-Installed and Monitored

Self-Installed and Professionally Monitored

Do-It-Yourself (DIY) By Services



Security System Integration Services

Remote Monitoring Services

Fire Protection Services

Video Surveillance Services

Access control Services By Companies ADT

ASSA ABLOY

Banham

Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology Co., Ltd.

Honeywell International, Inc

Inovonics Wireless Corporation

Johnson Controls

Securitas AB

Siemens

Risco Group

Napco Security Technologies, Inc. Regions and Countries Covered North America: (US, Canada, Mexico, Rest of North America)

Europe(Germany, France, Italy, Spain, UK, Nordic Countries, Benelux Union, Rest of Europe)

Asia-Pacific (Japan, China, India, Australia, South Korea, Southeast Asia, Rest of Asia-Pacific)

The Middle East & Africa(Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, South Africa, Rest of the Middle East & Africa)

Latin America(Brazil, Argentina, Rest of Latin America)

Rest Of the World Base Year 2022 Historical Year 2017 to 2022 Forecast Year 2023 to 2030

Market Dynamics:

Restraining Factors:

High Costs to Establish, Maintain, and Operate

Costs of hardware, software, and services have a significant impact on the number of individuals who opt to use protection systems. Professionally installed systems are more expensive up front because the hardware is more costly and there are fees for assistance. The system is also costly to own because it requires frequent maintenance, membership fees, and frequent replacement. Typically, an annual subscription to a third-party tracking player costs between $150 and $1500. Software containing powerful data tools is also costly and contributes to the overall cost of the system.

Opportunity Analysis:

Home security systems may incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) and deep learning

AI has enabled the integration of autonomous health screening and medical alert systems into a comprehensive home security system. People are also becoming increasingly concerned with the mental and physical health of their neighbors. This is notably true for elderly individuals who reside at home. Additionally, more people are using home security systems to view videos, identify threats, and restrict entry.

Key Segments Covered:

Top Market Players:

ADT

ASSA ABLOY

Banham

Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology Co., Ltd.

Honeywell International, Inc

Inovonics Wireless Corporation

Johnson Controls

Securitas AB

Siemens

Risco Group

Napco Security Technologies, Inc.

By Home Type

Independent Homes

Apartments

By Systems

Fire Protection systems

Video Surveisllance Systems

Access Control Systems

Entrance Control Systems

Intruder Alarm Systems

By Security

Professionally-Installed and Monitored

Self-Installed and Professionally Monitored

Do-It-Yourself (DIY)

By Services

Security System Integration Services

Remote Monitoring Services

Fire Protection Services

Video Surveillance Services

Access control Services

Regions and Countries Covered

North America: (US, Canada, Mexico, Rest of North America)

Europe: (Germany, France, Italy, Spain, UK, Nordic Countries, Benelux Union, Rest of Europe)

Asia-Pacific: (Japan, China, India, Australia, South Korea, Southeast Asia, Rest of Asia-Pacific)

The Middle East & Africa: (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, South Africa, Rest of the Middle East & Africa)

Latin America: (Brazil, Argentina, Rest of Latin America)

Rest Of the World

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David Theys Joins as a Managing Director in New Antwerp Office

ANTWERP, Belgium, April 18, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Houlihan Lokey, Inc. (NYSE:HLI), the global investment bank, announced today that David Theys has joined the firms Corporate Finance business as a Managing Director to advise clients in the Benelux region. Mr. Theys will have a specific focus on Belgium and will be based in the firms newly opened Antwerp office.

Mr. Theys joins with more than 25 years of investment banking experience. Most recently, he spent five years leading the Belgian operations of Nielen Schuman, the Benelux corporate finance boutique, before which he was a Partner at Clairfield Benelux. Mr. Theys previously spent 17 years working for investment banks such as Merrill Lynch and Morgan Stanley, where he began his career in the Belgian coverage team.

"We are delighted to welcome David to Houlihan Lokey as we continue to expand our business in Europe. His appointment and the opening of an office in Antwerp not only underscores our commitment to clients in the region but also adds a further depth of experience to the team as they partner with our global sector and product experts for the benefit of our Benelux clients," said Matteo Manfredi, Co-Head of Corporate Finance Europe at Houlihan Lokey.

"We are proud to have established one of the largest and most successful Corporate Finance practices in the Benelux region, and with Davids knowledge, we will be even better positioned to support our clients in the Belgian market. He has advised both financial sponsor and corporate clients on a wide range of transformational transactions during his career and shares our focus on superior outcomes for clients. I am confident that his arrival will be of tremendous benefit to our clients and colleagues alike," commented Managing Director Rob Oudman, who leads Houlihan Lokeys Benelux team.

"Houlihan Lokey is a proven leader in mid-cap M&A, driven by incredibly deep sector knowledge, outstanding capital markets expertise, and unrivalled private equity relationships. These attributes, together with a strong corporate culture and unwavering client focus, made this an exciting opportunity for me. I look forward to working with all colleagues across the firm to help our clients continue to grow and thrive," commented Mr. Theys.

Story continues

Houlihan Lokey has been present in the Benelux region since opening the Amsterdam office in 2015. The firm has advised on more than 50 transactions in the region over the past six years. Most recently, the team advised Enhesa on the sale of a minority investment from Bregal Sagemount; the sale of NetRom Software to Investcorp; and the sale of VTI to Pinova Capital.

About Houlihan Lokey

Houlihan Lokey (NYSE:HLI) is a global investment bank with expertise in mergers and acquisitions, capital markets, financial restructuring, and financial and valuation advisory. The firm serves corporations, institutions, and governments worldwide with offices in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, and the Asia-Pacific region. Independent advice and intellectual rigor are hallmarks of the firms commitment to client success across its advisory services. Houlihan Lokey is the No. 1 investment bank for global M&A transactions under $1 billion, the No. 1 M&A advisor for the past eight consecutive years in the U.S., the No. 1 global restructuring advisor for the past nine consecutive years, and the No. 1 global M&A fairness opinion advisor over the past 25 years, all based on number of transactions and according to data provided by Refinitiv.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230417005433/en/

Contacts

Investor Relations

212.331.8225

IR@HL.com

Media Relations

020 7747 1480

PR@HL.com
Initial pre-litigation offer of $1.7 million was turned down to secure $6.7 million jury verdict

LEXINGTON, KY / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Hughes & Coleman Injury Lawyers is dedicated to helping clients achieve the highest compensation possible, especially when they are injured because safety procedures were ignored. Recently, Hughes & Coleman Injury Lawyers secured a $6.7 million jury verdict for a western Kentucky client who was severely injured after a towing company failed to follow the proper safety precautions while inflating a semi-truck tire.

Our client, a semi-truck driver, experienced a flat tire while driving in Ohio. He called a local towing company for help to fix the flat tire. Due to the size of commercial semi-truck tires, the proper inflation process takes longer than it does for smaller car tires and requires strict protocols to help prevent injuries. First, the tire must be properly inspected for perforations, gashes, or defects, and all rims must be analyzed to ensure they can handle reinflation. The flat tire should also be placed in a safety cage during the inflation process to prevent damage or injury should a tire explosion occur. Finally, the person working on the tire is expected to clear the "danger zone." The danger zone is the physical space around the tire that cannot be occupied while the tire fills with air due to the chance of significant injury if an explosion occurs.

Upon arrival, the towing company employee failed to inspect and to place the deflated tire within the cage before he began the inflation process. While inflating, the towing company employee noticed several gashes in the tire and rim and shut off the air supply to get a closer inspection. The Hughes & Coleman client, unaware that safety protocols were breached, was then invited by the towing company employee into the danger zone to look at the tire. Without warning, the employee resumed inflating the tire and did not tell the Hughes & Coleman client to move. The tire exploded, launching 30 feet into the air and hitting him with extreme force in the face and chest.

Story continues

Hughes & Coleman, Monday, April 10, 2023, Press release picture

Lee Coleman, Attorney and Founding Partner of Hughes & Coleman

"Our client, who was merely observing the deflated tire at the request of the towing company employee, had no idea his life and health were in jeopardy," said Lee Coleman, Attorney and Founding Partner of Hughes & Coleman. "The employee with the towing company did not follow the proper safety procedures; he failed to inspect the tire adequately, failed to secure the tire in a safety cage, and then completely failed to clear the danger zone, ultimately ending in our client being catastrophically injured. Negligence like this from a company that is expected to uphold safety standards is unacceptable, and it's why our team fights relentlessly for our clients each day."

The client suffered severe facial injuries, including an upper jaw fracture and the loss of several of his front teeth, as well as chest injuries, including multiple broken ribs and a pinched nerve in his spine. He also suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI) and was diagnosed with a neurocognitive disorder and cognitive impairment, affecting his verbal skills, memory, and ability to understand certain situations. He continues to suffer from chronic sinus problems, neck and back pain, dizziness, headaches, hearing loss, light sensitivity and impaired sleep, and many other life-altering symptoms - all from a preventable incident that was not his fault.

Hughes & Coleman, Monday, April 10, 2023, Press release picture

The client's medical expenses were significant, and he was no longer able to work. The Hughes & Coleman Injury Lawyers team turned down a pre-trial offer of $1.7 million. That amount was unacceptable given how much the client required for his future projected medical care and everything that had been stolen from him as a result of the negligence of the tow truck company. After a six day trial and deliberation by the jury, the Hughes & Coleman Injury Lawyer's client was awarded a jury verdict of $6.7 million. See the full details of the case at $6.7 Million Jury Verdict. After the verdict, the case resolved for a confidential amount, and the client was paid. Hughes and Coleman attorney Joe Griffith served as lead trial attorney.

While personal injuries occur under different circumstances - each with a different timeline and steps needed to secure fair compensation - the Hughes & Coleman team fights for its clients, to ensure they receive the money they deserve. To learn more about other case victories handled by the Hughes & Coleman team, see "Our Victories" and "Hughes & Coleman Injury Lawyers Secures $500,000 Settlement for Kentucky Hit-and-Run Victim."

The Hughes & Coleman team is ready to help if someone needs a personal injury lawyer due to an injury caused by the negligence of someone else. For a free case consultation, contact Hughes & Coleman Injury Lawyers today at 800-800-4600 or book an appointment online.

Hughes & Coleman, Monday, April 10, 2023, Press release picture

About Hughes & Coleman:

Hughes & Coleman was founded in 1985. What started as a partnership of two attorneys has grown into a powerhouse legal team across Kentucky and Tennessee. Their team helps those who have been injured due to auto accidents, big truck wrecks, motorcycle accidents, defective medical products, nursing home abuse, slip and fall accidents, birth injuries, and wrongful death. Hughes & Coleman operates 10 offices and has recovered over a billion dollars for their clients throughout Kentucky and Tennessee.

Contact:

Lora Fisher

Brand Development Director

270-782-6003 ext.147

lfisher@hughesandcoleman.com

SOURCE: Hughes & Coleman





View source version on accesswire.com:

https://www.accesswire.com/748280/Hughes-Coleman-Injury-Lawyers-Secures-67-Million-Settlement-for-Semi-Truck-Driver-Seriously-Injured-Due-To-Negligence-of-Towing-Company




MAXIMIZE MARKET RESEARCH PRIVATE LIMITED

Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Market is segmented based on Vehicle Type, Technology and Range. Bottom-up approach was used to estimate the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Market size.

Pune, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Maximize Market research, a global Automotive and Transportation market research firm has published a competitive intelligence market research report on the  Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Market . The Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Market size was valued at USD 0.9 Bn in 2021. The total Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Market revenue is expected to grow at a CAGR of 45.3 percent from 2022 to 2029, reaching USD 17.88 Bn during the forecast period.



Market Size in 2021 USD 0.9 Bn Market Size in 2029 USD 17.88 Bn CAGR 45.3 per cent (2022-2029) Forecast Period 2022-2029 Base Year 2021 Number of Pages 278 No. of Tables 129 No. of Charts and Figures 121 Segment Covered By Vehicle Type, Technology and Range 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.

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Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Market Scope and Research Methodology

The Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Market research report covers technology, product application, development trend, product technology, competitive landscape, industrial chain structure, industry overview, national policy and planning analysis of the industry. The report includes drivers, opportunities and restraints affecting the global market. It covers the impact of these drivers, trends and restraints on the demand of the market during the forecast period. The report also highlights opportunities in the market at the global level. Regional analysis of the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Market is conducted at the country, regional and global levels. The report covers the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Market strategies followed by major players with their strategies and investment plans. The primary and secondary research method was used to collect the data from the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Market. Key players are identified through secondary research. Secondary research was used to collect information for the extensive, market-oriented, and commercial analysis of the Market.

Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Market Overview

Story continues

Hydrogen Fuel Cell vehicles use a fuel cell to convert hydrogen into electricity, which then powers an electric motor, emitting only water vapor as a byproduct. Currently, the market for hydrogen fuel cell vehicles is still relatively small, with limited availability of models and refueling infrastructure . However, there is growing interest in this technology due to its potential to offer a zero-emissions alternative to traditional gasoline and diesel vehicles. Governments around the world are also showing support for hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, with many offering incentives and subsidies to encourage their adoption. In the US, for example, the federal government offers a tax credit of up to $8,000 for the purchase of a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle.

Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Market Dynamics

As concerns about the environmental impact of traditional gasoline and diesel vehicles continue to grow, there is an increasing demand for cleaner and more sustainable transportation alternatives. Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles emit only water and heat, making them a zero-emission alternative to traditional vehicles, which is expected to drive the market during the forecast period. Many governments around the world are providing financial incentives to encourage the development and adoption of clean energy technologies, including hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. These incentives include tax credits, grants, and subsidies.

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North America region is expected to fuel the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Market growth

The Asia Pacific region is expected to be a major market for hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) in the coming years. The region includes some of the world's largest economies, such as China, Japan, and South Korea, which are all investing heavily in the development and adoption of hydrogen fuel cell technology. The Asia Pacific region is expected to be a major market for hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) in the coming years. The region includes some of the world's largest economies, such as China, Japan, and South Korea, which are all investing heavily in the development and adoption of hydrogen fuel cell technology.

Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Market Segmentation

By Vehicle Type:

Sedan

SUV

Other



Based on Vehicle Type, the SUV is expected to dominate the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Market during the forecast period. Embrace Fuel is expected to dominate the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Market during the forecast period. Proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells are a type of hydrogen fuel cell that are used in various applications, including vehicles, stationary power generation, and portable electronics, which expected to increases demand for market growth during the forecast period.

By Technology:

Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell

Phosphoric Acid Fuel Cell

Get Customization on this Report for Specific Research Solutions: https://www.maximizemarketresearch.com/request-customization/184548

Based on Technology, the Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell segment is expected to dominate the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Market. Is widely used in applications such as forklifts, automobiles, telecommunications, primary systems, and backup power systems. Versatility is a major factor slated to bolster their demand in the forecast period.

By Range:

0-250 Miles

251-500 Miles

Above 500 Miles



Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Market Key Players Include:

Toyota Motor Corporation

Hyundai Motor Company

Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

General Motors Company

Daimler AG

BMW AG

Audi AG

Tata Motors Limited

Nikola Corporation

Riversimple

Riversimple - UK

Riversimple - France

H2 Mobility Deutschland GmbH & Co. KG - Germany

Hyzon Motors - Netherlands

ITM Power - UK

Ballard Power Systems - Canada

NEL Hydrogen - Norway

Symbio - France

Air Liquide - France

Adelan Ltd - UK.

Get the Sample PDF of Report: https://www.maximizemarketresearch.com/request-sample/184548

Key questions answered in the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Market are:

What is Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Market?

What was the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Market size in 2021?

What is the expected Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Market size by 2029?

What is the growth rate of the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Market?

Which are the factors expected to drive the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Market growth?

Which factors are expected to restrain the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Market growth?

Which segment dominated the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Market growth?

What is the demand pattern for the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Market?

Which region held the largest share in the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Market?

Who are the key players in the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle Market?

Key Offerings:

Past Market Size and Market Competitiveness (2018 to 2021)

Past Pricing and price curve by region (2018 to 2021)

Market Size, Share, Size & Forecast by different segment | 20222029

Market Dynamics  Growth Drivers, Restraints, Opportunities, Challenges and Key Trends by region

Market Segmentation  A detailed analysis by Vehicle Type, Technology and Range

Type Competitive Landscape A detailed scenario of the competitive environment in the global market Competitive landscape  Market Leaders, Market Followers, Regional player Competitive benchmarking of key players by region based on product Portfolio, End-Users, Revenues, Manufacturing Locations, etc. Market Consolidations  Mergers, Acquisitions, Joint Ventures, Partnerships. Company Profiles  Business Overview, Financial Overview, Business Strategy, SWOT Analysis, Recent Development.

PESTLE Analysis

PORTERs analysis

Value chain and supply chain analysis

Legal Aspects of business by region

Key Takeaways

Industry Recommendations

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Electric Drive Mining Truck Market : Electric Drive Mining Truck Market size was valued at USD 392.2 Mn. in 2021 and the total revenue is expected to grow by 26.5 percent from 2022 to 2029, reaching nearly USD 2571.77 Mn. Growing demand for electric autonomous mining trucks to drive the market demand

Automotive Night Vision System Market : Automotive Night Vision System Market size was valued at USD 3.9 Bn. in 2021 and the total revenue is expected to grow by 12.02 percent from 2022 to 2029, reaching nearly USD 9.67 Bn. Driver Monitoring System (DMS) creating a new opportunity for market players.

Boat Rental Market : Boat Rental Market was valued at USD 18.45 Billion in 2021, and is expected to reach USD 29.67 Billion by 2029, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.12 percent during the forecast period (2022-2029). Accessibility and connection with boat owners is major driving factor for boat rental market.

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.

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Fortune Business Insights

According to Fortune Business Insights, the global industrial gases market size is projected to reach USD 148.16 billion by 2028 from its value USD 88.05 billion in 2020, at CAGR of 7.2% during forecast period.

Pune, India, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The industrial gases market size to hit USD 148.16 billion by 2028. The global market size was valued USD 88.05 billion in 2020 and USD 91.29 billion in 2021. The market is set to gain traction from the high demand for crude oil and the urgent need to refine it for usage in various applications. At the same time, the expansion of the oil and gas industry would affect growth positively. As per the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the total imports of crude oil in 2019 were 6,801,000 barrels per day (b/d). Fortune Business Insights published this information in a report, titled, Industrial Gases Market, 2021-2028.

Key Industry Developments:



March 2021: Echo Energy Plc won two new contracts for selling industrial gases at considerable premiums. Both contracts have a timeline of 12 months and the company will begin selling gases from May 2021.

Request a Free Sample of the Research Report: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/request-sample-pdf/industrial-gases-market-101728

Report Highlights:

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2021-2028 Forecast Period 2021 to 2028 CAGR 7.2% 2028 Value Projection USD 148.16 billion Base Year 2019 Market Size in 2022 USD 88.05 billion Historical Data for 2017-2019 No. of Pages 280 Segments covered By Service, Technology, and Region Growth Drivers Increasing Demand from Healthcare Sector to Add Impetus to Market Surging Investments in Electronics and Metallurgy Industries to Boost Growth

Drivers & Restraints:

Increasing Demand from Healthcare Sector to Add Impetus to Market

An increase in the prices of crude oil and a rise in the need for refining have propelled the demand for industrial gases, especially from the oil and gas industry. Additionally, they are also used for various purposes, such as coiled tubing, pipe cooling and inerting, drilling, leak testing, maintenance, spool base in pipe building, and others. Such factors are promoting the industrial gases market growth. Furthermore, the expansion of the healthcare and food & beverage industries is aiding to the growth of the market.

Story continues

On the contrary, the current outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on various industries are likely to hamper the market in the coming years. This, coupled with the stringent regulations imposed on the storage, manufacturing, and distribution of industrial gases may pose a hindrance to the growth of the market in the coming years.

Nevertheless, a rise in the industrialization and urbanization, as well as the growing consumer demand from the processing and manufacturing industries are likely to create lucrative growth opportunities for the market in the long run.

Click here to get the short-term and long-term impacts of COVID-19 on this Market. Please visit: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/industry-reports/industrial-gases-market-101728

Surging Investments in Electronics and Metallurgy Industries to Boost Growth

Rising investments in electronics, metallurgy, food & beverages, and mining & metal sectors, especially in developing countries worldwide are set to propel the industrial gases market growth in the upcoming years. According to the World Investment Report 2018, for instance, in 2017, Asia Pacific invested approximately USD 476 billion of inflow from foreign direct investment. It was primarily focused on Singapore and China. However, the transportation, storage, and manufacturing of industrial gases revolve around numerous stringent governmental norms. It may hamper growth.

Segment Analysis:

Oxygen Segment to Continue Dominance on Account of Its Rising Demand from Pharmaceutical Industries

Based on segmentation by gas type, the oxygen segment earned 28.9% industrial gases market share in 2019. This is attributable to the extensive usage of oxygen and its high demand from various sectors such as pulp and paper, chemical, pharmaceutical, and petroleum. However, the carbon dioxide segment will also showcase notable growth on account of its significant applications as a raw material in products such as meat, fruits and vegetables, poultry, and others.

Quick Buy - Industrial Gases Market Research Report: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/checkout-page/101728

Oxygen Segments Earned 28.4% Share in 2020: Fortune Business Insights

Based on the gas type, the market is divided into oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, hydrogen, argon, and others. Out of these, the oxygen segment generated 28.4% in terms of the industrial gases market share in 2020. This growth is attributable to the increasing usage in a wide range of industries, such as petroleum, pharmaceuticals, ceramics, chemicals, and healthcare.

Competitive Landscape:

Linde Earning Maximum Share Attributable to a Rise in Industrial Investment

The global market is dominated by Linde on account of its high investments in the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries. Besides this, the company is also investing massively on improving the economic scenario. It is also delivering its products to the rising number of manufacturing and metal processing industries, along with food & beverage, chemical, and oil & gas industries. The other players are engaging in merger and acquisition, joint ventures, contracts and agreements, different collaborative strategies, and others to gain a competitive edge in the market.

Report Coverage:

The report involved four notable activities in projecting the current size of the industrial gases industry. Exhaustive secondary research was conducted to gather data about the parent and peer markets. Our next step included primary research to authenticate these sizing, assumptions, and findings with numerous industry experts. We have also used bottom-up and top-down approaches to calculate the market size.



Regional Insights:

Increasing Urbanization and Industrialization to Help Asia Pacific Grow Significantly

Geographically, Asia Pacific held USD 28.31 billion in terms of revenue in 2020. This growth is attributable to the increasing industrialization and urbanization. Besides, the surging usage of industrial gases in the power, oil & gas, and healthcare industries is set to drive growth. Europe, on the other hand, is anticipated to grow because of the expansion of the food & beverage industry. Additionally, the high demand from the pharmaceutical industry would spur growth in this region.

Get your Customized Research Report: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/ask-for-customization/industrial-gases-market-101728

Competitive Landscape:

Key Participants Focus on Gaining New Contracts to Supply Their In-house Products

The market contains numerous renowned companies that are persistently striving to gain a competitive edge. Most of them are focusing on bagging new contracts from reputed organizations for providing their in-house industrial gases. Below is the two

April 2020: Air Liquide signed 11 new agreements with its industrial merchant customers. It would supply hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen for 10 years to its customers. This way, the company will be able to compete in the market.

June 2019  Exxon Mobil Asia Pacific Pvt. Ltd. and Linde engaged in multi-billion agreements to expand their geographical reach in Singapore. This project includes the construction, development, and operation of four additional gasifiers, an air separation plant with a capacity of 1200 metric ton per day (TPD), and sulfur recovery plants along with the processing units for downstream gas belonging to Linde.

Manufacturers Operating in the global market:

Air Liquide (France)

Air Products (United States)

Linde (Ireland)

Matheson Tri-Gas (United States)

Messer Group (Germany)

Gulf Cryo (Kuwait)

BASF (United States)

Southern Company Gas (United States)

Universal Industrial Gases (United States)

Ellenbarrie Industrial Gases Ltd (India)

Bhuruka gases ltd (India)

Concorde-Corodex Group (UAE)

Dubai Industrial Gases (UAE)

Bristol Gases (UAE)

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INNOVATE Corp.

NEW YORK, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- INNOVATE Corp. (NYSE: VATE) (INNOVATE or the Company) announced today that it will release its financial results for the first quarter 2023 on Tuesday, May 2, 2023 after market close. The Company will host an earnings conference call reviewing these results, its operations and strategy on the same day, beginning at 4:30 p.m. ET.



Dial-in instructions for the conference call and the replay are outlined below. This conference call will also be broadcast live over the internet and can be accessed by all interested parties through INNOVATEs Investor Relations website at www.innovate-ir.com. To listen to the live call, please go to the Investor Relations section of the Companys website at least 15 minutes prior to the start of the call to register and download any necessary audio software. For those who are not able to listen to the live broadcast, a replay will be available shortly after the call on the Investor Relations portion of the INNOVATE website.

Conference Call Details

Live Call

Domestic Dial-In: 1-877-704-4453

Toll/International: 1-201-389-0920

Conference Number: 13738198

Conference Replay*

Domestic Dial-In: 1-844-512-2921

Toll/International: 1-412-317-6671

Conference Number: 13738198

*Available approximately three hours after the end of the conference call through May 16, 2023.

About INNOVATE

INNOVATE Corp. is a portfolio of best-in-class assets in three key areas of the new economy  Infrastructure, Life Sciences and Spectrum. Dedicated to stakeholder capitalism, INNOVATE employs approximately 3,800 people across its subsidiaries. For more information, please visit: www.INNOVATECorp.com.

Contacts

Media Contact:

Reevemark

Paul Caminiti/Pam Greene/Luc Herbowy

INNOVATE.Team@reevemark.com

(212) 433-4600

Investor Contact:

Solebury Strategic Communications

Anthony Rozmus

ir@innovatecorp.com

(212) 235-2691




Lithium explorer Cornish Lithium says it has found "globally significant" grades of the metal underground in Cornwall

Above ground, a small drilling rig is the only clue that something is afoot on the stretch of farmland where Aberdeen Minerals has spent the past 10 weeks prospecting.

All the action is hidden below the surface, where the company is digging a series of boreholes hundreds of metres into the earth in search of rare minerals.

It is here that Fraser Gardiner, Aberdeens chief executive, hopes to confirm the UKs biggest known deposit of nickel  a key metal for batteries that will power the green energy revolution.

The site, which also contains copper and cobalt, was previously passed over by mining giant Rio Tinto about 60 years ago.

But its time may now have come, says Gardiner, whose company spent months scouring the Scottish landscape with helicopter-mounted sensors to get here.

Aberdeen Minerals' efforts to uncover rare earth metals have been aided airborne scans of the Aberdeenshire landscape

Rio decided it did not meet their requirements, but metal prices were very different in the 1950s and 60s, he says.

We believe there is a much bigger opportunity today  and this is just the beginning.

Aberdeen is one of several companies hunting for mineral treasure across the UK, as demand explodes for the raw materials that will go into the legions of wind turbines, electric cars and batteries needed for the switch to net zero.

Alongside green technology, these elements are also found in smartphones, computers and medical devices.

Today, Britain imports almost all of the critical minerals it needs. Industrial supply chains also rely almost exclusively on China for processing.

With Western governments keen to cut their dependence on Beijing, the UK Government is seeking to revive the domestic mining industry and make supplies less vulnerable to geopolitical wrangling.

As part of these efforts, the British Geological Survey (BGS) on Monday published a report revealing that Britain has the right geology, in theory, to yield 17 of the 18 minerals deemed as critical to the economy by ministers, including cobalt and lithium.

Spread around the UK, the most promising locations are already associated with mining  from Aberdeenshire in Scotland to mid-County Tyrone in Northern Ireland, Pembrokeshire in Wales and Cumbria and Cornwall in England.

Story continues

People tend to say that the UK doesn't have critical mineral resources, but there is no evidence to support that statement, says Dr Kathryn Goodenough, principal geologist at the BGS.

We have the geology. And the UK is a historic mining country, so many of these raw materials have been mined in the UK before.

The point of the BGS exercise is to establish that the minerals are very likely to be there, she says, before adding: Obviously, there are lots of other challenges to be dealt with, before you can actually open a mine.

The exact size of the UKs critical mineral reserves is unknown at this stage. However, industry insiders agree that they are unlikely to match those of Australia, West Africa, or South America.

But that does not mean that what is here cannot provide a significant portion of our requirements according to Stephen Gifford, chief economist at the Faraday Institution.

By 2040, the UK will need 175,000 tonnes per year of nickel alone, the institution says, as well as around 130,000 tonnes of battery-grade lithium and 25,000 tonnes of cobalt.

Because of the concerns about the dominance of China, theres a geopolitical case for developing some security of supply, just as you're developing energy security as well, Gifford says.

But its also very sensible to have a diverse supply, both in number and geographies. So the UK producing or mining some of these materials is going to be very important for both of those aims.

Ultimately, the UK is not going to be able to supply all its minerals locally, because it doesn't have those deposits  but this could be an important contribution.

Exploratory drilling is already well under way across the country.

In Cornwall, Cornish Lithium and rival British Lithium are both hoping to trigger a new Poldark-style mining boom, while Durham-based Northern Lithium is prospecting in the northern Pennine orefield.

Tungsten West is drilling for tungsten in Plymouth, while Aberdeen Minerals hopes to find nickel, copper and cobalt in northeast Scotland.

If they are successful, their projects could unleash a new wave of jobs and investment.

Aberdeen has raised 1.1m from backers and is expected to seek further millions to cast its net even wider in the search for further deposits. Earth cores extracted in drilling so far have yielded promising results, Gardiner says.

It could provide an opportunity to revive mining in an area of Scotland that stands to lose jobs in oil and gas as green technologies take hold, potentially offering a home for engineering expertise built up over decades.

Not all industry figures are convinced.

One senior source argues that ministers are wasting their time encouraging mining in the UK, when countries such as Australia already have vast mines that can be expanded more easily to meet western demand.

Others point out that unless the West increases its own capacity for refining, mining more of our own critical minerals will be pointless in many cases.

Efforts are already under way to construct new mineral refineries in the US, while in the UK companies including Pensana are seeking to build rare earth processing hubs that can make magnets used in wind turbines and electric car motors.

But until they have been finished, China maintains a vice-grip on this crucial stage of production  and Beijing has signalled it may seek to frustrate Western efforts to reduce dependence with trade sanctions.

Meanwhile, despite the UKs high standards of regulation and the development of modern mining methods, it is far from clear that the revival of mining will be popular with people living next door.

Professor Gawen Jenkin, director of Leicester Universitys Centre for Sustainable Resource Extraction, says the smaller size of UK deposits may end up being helpful because they will not require enormous holes in the ground.

But although he thinks the UK should take on a fair share of mining the minerals it needs for the future, he remains unsure about how well this will be received by the public.

Another barrier for companies in Britain is the complex process of striking agreements with various land owners, owing to differences in how mineral extraction is licenced here.

In many other countries, only governments own minerals and control the licences for their extraction.

You can see that in the past that conversations about things like fracking have just been completely hijacked by agitators with one one perspective and, basically, the argument has been lost before it even started, Jenkin says.

He says the holy grail being sought by mining companies is a method of extraction that would see liquid solutions pumped through the ground and circulated to extract minerals, without the need for any drilling.

But that still is a long way off.

Back in Aberdeen, Gardiner agrees there is a social dilemma that needs to be resolved.

People are becoming increasingly aware of where stuff comes from, he says.

And that wherever it does come from, there has to be some kind of impact on the environment and communities. It's something that we were certainly sensitive to.

But I also think there is a growing sense that we cant just expect somebody else to produce the stuff for us and that, where there are opportunities, we should be mining in our own backyard.

So far, the only evidence of Britain's ambitions is a few small drilling rigs. They are likely to become much bigger if the prospectors get their way.
OTTAWA, ON, April 18, 2023 /CNW/ - Today the Rideau Hall Foundation (RHF) is pleased to announce the recipients of the eighth annual Governor General's Innovation Awards (GGIA). These awards recognize and celebrate exceptional and transformational Canadian innovations, which are creating a positive impact in Canada and beyond, while also inspiring the next generation of innovators.

Governor General's Innovation Awards (CNW Group/Rideau Hall Foundation)

The recipients of the 2023 Governor General's Innovation Awards are:

Canadian Partnership for International Justice (CPIJ)

(The CPIJ Team)

Led by Professor Fannie Lafontaine, the Canadian Partnership for International Justice (CPIJ) is a pan-Canadian partnership that brings together a team of 25 researchers and practitioners from 12 organizations to strengthen access to justice for victims of international crimes. Contributing to the defence of human rights and the construction of a just and inclusive society, CPIJ's collective and inclusive approach has changed the way research is done by establishing a cross-sectoral collaboration between universities, legal clinics, NGOs and international organizations.

Nominated by Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC)

DalPhos Catalysts for Next-Generation Pharmaceutical Synthesis

(Dr. Mark Stradiotto)

Professor Mark Stradiotto is a world-leader in the field of metal catalysis for assembling organic molecules, including the active pharmaceutical ingredients in medicines. His game-changing research has resulted in the development of the commercialized "DalPhos" (DALhousie PHOSphine) catalysts, which have addressed important conceptual and practical challenges in the preparation of pharmaceuticals, and offer high performance and practicality, while encompassing considerations of sustainability.

Nominated by Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC)

Earth X-Ray for Low-Impact Mining

(Ideon Technologies)

Through new implementation and integration methods, Ideon Technologies will allow mining companies to identify density and magnetic anomalies with greater resolution and clarity down to 1 km beneath the Earth's surface, much like x-rays and MRIs give us visibility inside the human body. Their Subsurface Intelligence Platform will help target and characterize deposits with greater precision, supporting an environmentally responsible mineral supply needed to fuel the transition to clean energy.

Story continues

Nominated by Digital Supercluster

Innovations in Flow Chemistry: The Solution to Producing COVID-19 Test Kits

(Dr. Michael Organ)

Dr. Michael Organ and his team have made outstanding, pioneering contributions to fundamental knowledge in flowed chemical synthesis. Dr. Organ is the mastermind behind the invention of a flow reactor that safely manufactures a key molecule used to prepare the PCR test kit for COVID-19. The reactor, designed and built in his lab, produces tens of kilograms of the target molecule monthly. Dr. Organ's technology has contributed to COVID-19 tests performed around the world.

Nominated by Universities Canada

MerPAS: Mercury Passive Air Sampler

(Dr. David McLagan, Dr. Carl Mitchell, Dr. Frank Wania)

MerPAS is an innovative sampler for monitoring mercury pollution in the air. It runs without the need for electricity or gas, using controlled diffusion of air and a carbon material to capture mercury from the atmosphere. Designed, developed and tested by a research team comprised of David McLagan, Carl Mitchell and Frank Wania, the sampler has been commercialized and is being used in monitoring networks in Canada and world-wide, pointing the way to healthier air quality and a reduction of global mercury emissions.

Nominated by Universities Canada

The Signal for Help

(Canadian Women's Foundation (CWF))

In 2020, the Canadian Women's Foundation launched the Signal for Help to help abuse survivors in the pandemic's spike of gendered violence. The hand gesture innovation is simple  tuck the thumb into the palm and cover the thumb with fingers to ask for help without leaving a digital trace. Used in over 45 countries and shared virally around the world, it has saved lives and continues to be used. In Canada, 41% of people know about the signal and 9% have used it or seen it used. To support the use of the signal, the CWF developed Signal for Help Responder digital learning tools, as research shows that many people do not have the confidence and knowledge to offer abuse survivors non-judgemental support.

Nominated by Community Foundations of Canada

2023 GGIA Selection and Assessment Committees

The GGIA Selection and Assessment Committees are composed of distinguished individuals chosen for their expertise in and breadth of understanding of the Canadian innovation ecosystem.

2023 GGIA Selection Committee:

Charles Deguire (Committee Chair), Co-Founder and CEO, Kinova Inc. and GGIA Laureate 2016

John Knubley, Senior Business Consultant, Former Deputy Minister, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED)

Breanne Everett, CEO and Co-Founder of Orpyx Medical Technologies Inc. and Kinetyx Sciences Inc., and GGIA Laureate 2016

John Stackhouse, Senior Vice-President, Office of the CEO, RBC

Meredith Powell, Venture Partner with Voyager Capital

Dr. Kamran Khan, Infectious Disease Physician and Professor of Medicine and Public Health at the University of Toronto, Founder of BlueDot, and GGIA Laureate 2018

2023 GGIA Assessment Committee:

Audra Renyi (Committee Chair), Executive Director of World Wide Hearing Foundation, Founder of earAccess, and GGIA Laureate 2017

David Brown, Co-Founder and COO of Chinova Bioworks, Founder of MYCODEV Group and GGIA Laureate 2017

Robert Luke, Chief Executive Officer, eCampusOntario

Patricia Francis, Independent Consultant / Archive Coordinator, For the Development of an Archival Complex on The Akwesasne Territory

Marcia Nozick, founder of EMBERS (the Eastside Movement for Business and Economic Renewal Society) and GGIA Laureate 2020

Donna May Kimmaliardjuk, Canada's first Inuk heart surgeon

Ulrike Bahr-Gedalia, Senior Director, Digital Economy, Technology & Innovation and Cyber. Right. Now. Policy Lead with the Canadian Chamber of Commerce.

The 2023 GGIA ceremony will be live-streamed on Thursday, May 18th, 2023, at 7 p.m. ET during Canadian Innovation Week #CIW (May 15th to 19th).

About the Governor General's Innovation Awards

Launched in 2016, the Governor General's Innovation Awards inspire Canadians to embrace innovation and to emulate innovative trailblazers who have developed new or better ways of creating value and who are having a meaningful impact on our quality of life.

The Awards are given to individuals, teams and/or organizations whose innovations are:

Truly exceptional;

Transformative; and,

Positive in their impact on quality of life in Canada and beyond.

Each year, up to six award winners are identified through a two-stage, merit-based selection process. For more information on the awards visit innovation.gg.ca.

About the Rideau Hall Foundation

The Rideau Hall Foundation (RHF) is a registered national charity that brings together ideas, people and resources to celebrate what is best about Canada while working with partners to meaningfully improve lives and foster the conditions for more Canadians to succeed and thrive. The RHF manages all aspects of the Governor General's Innovation Awards.

Learn more about the RHF at www.rhf-frh.ca.

SOURCE Rideau Hall Foundation

Cision

View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/April2023/18/c0463.html
The Brainy Insights

The rise of IoMT market is driven by increasing concerns towards health and related activities, along with the growing investment in research and development processes and the adoption of solutions. The ever-increasing popularity of 5G technology and growing investments in developing sophisticated 5G networks worldwide are the driving factors of the market growth. North America emerged as the largest global internet of medical things [IoMT] market, with a 41.36% market revenue share in 2022.

Newark, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Brainy Insights estimates that the internet of medical things [IoMT] market will grow to USD 61.56 billion in 2022 and reach USD 516.40 billion by 2032. In just ten years, increasing concerns towards health and related activities, the rising developmental strategies adopted by the key market players, lack of medical expertise, and data overload on healthcare facilities are also anticipated to drive market growth during the forecast period. Additionally, the increasing demand for cloud-based solutions from multiple industrial verticals, including the healthcare industry, is also helping to boost the market growth.



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Key Insight of the Internet of Medical Things [IoMT] Market



North America to account for the largest market size during the forecast period.



North America is expected to have the largest market share in the Internet of medical things [IoMT] market. Key factors favouring the growth of the Internet of medical things [IoMT] market in North America includes the well-established healthcare infrastructure and IT industry, increasing demand for better patient outcomes, increased R&D expenditure, and technological advancements helping stimulate market growth. Further, the increase in awareness regarding technological advancement in IoMT devices and the high prevalence of the chronic disease is expected to drive market growth in this region.



Story continues

The device management segment is expected to augment the internet of medical things [IoMT] market during the forecast period.



The platform segment is divided into device management, application management, and cloud management. The device management segment held the largest market share in 2022 and is expected to continue during the forecast period owing to the increasing investment in the industry and more flexible medical regulations for testing and approving these devices.



The hardware segment market size was USD 25.41 billion in 2022



The component segment is divided into hardware, software, and services. The hardware segment market size was USD 25.41 billion in 2022 due to the availability of high-speed connectivity.



The tracking and alerts segment is anticipated to dominate the market by 34.03% in 2032.



The application segment is divided into data assortment and analysis, end-to-end connectivity, real-time monitoring, remote medical assistance, and tracking and alerts. By 2032, the tracking and alerts segment will likely dominate the market due to the increasing acceptance of data analytics.



The smart wearable devices segment accounted for the largest market share of 41.25% in 2022.



The product segment is divided into home-use medical devices, smart wearable devices, and point-of-care kits. The smart wearable devices segment accounted for the largest market share of 41.25% in 2022 due to the increasing deployment of AGVs and advanced mobile robotics in many industries.



The on-premise segment market size was USD 35.24 billion in 2022



The mode of service delivery segment is divided into on-premise and cloud. The on-premise segment is anticipated to dominate the market over the forecast period owing to the increasing adoption of the industrial Internet of Things (IIoT).



The hospital's segment market size was USD 17.95 billion in 2022



The end-user segment is divided into homecare, clinics, hospitals, research institutes & academics, and others. The hospital segment is anticipated to dominate the market over the forecast period owing to the advantages of IoMT devices like real-time monitoring and improved drug management.



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Market Dynamics



Driver: The rising demand for connected devices:



Technological development and better access to personal healthcare are driving factors of market growth. The global Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) market is anticipated to expand due to increased demand for connected instruments in the healthcare industry. Moreover, the increasing usage of wearable or stand-alone devices for patient monitoring, sensor-based technologies, and asset management are also helping to drive market growth over the forecast period.



Restraint: The lack of skilled professionals:



The lack of skilled professionals towards IOT technology is one of the hampering factors in the market growth. Moreover, the lack of infrastructure facilities & qualified specialists in the hospital and medical sectors is expected to hinder the market growth.



Opportunity: The extensive adoption of electronic health records (EHR):



The increasing demand for point-of-care medical devices in countries, along with the introduction to technologically advanced healthcare services, is an opportunity factor for market growth. Further, the rapid telecommunications improvements, such as the advent of 4G LTE, are also helping to boost the market growth over the projection period. Moreover, the ever-increasing demand for quality standards and services, coupled with government initiatives for adopting electronic health records in small-scale facilities, is expected to propel the market growth over the forecast period.



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Some of the major players operating in the internet of medical things [IoMT] market are:



 Koninklijke Philips N.V.

 GE healthcare

 LifeFuels Inc.

 Carre Technologies Inc.

 Breathometer Inc.

 Wimm Labs

 Honeywell International

 Medtronic MiniMed

 IBM Corp.

 Meru Health

 Nike

 Apple

 Sano Intelligence

 Hexoskin

 Sony

 iRhythm

 Amiigo



Key Segments cover in the market:



By Platform:



 Device Management

 Application Management

 Cloud Management



By Component:



 Hardware

 Software

 Services



By Application:



 Data Assortment and Analysis

 End-To-End Connectivity

 Real-Time Monitoring

 Remote Medical Assistance

 Tracking and Alerts



By Product:



 Home-Use Medical Devices

 Smart Wearable Devices

 Point-of-Care Kits



By Mode of Service Delivery:



 On-Premise

 Cloud



By End-User:



 Homecare

 Clinics

 Hospitals

 Research Institutes & Academics

 Others



By Region



 North America (U.S., Canada, Mexico)

 Europe (Germany, France, the U.K., Italy, Spain, Rest of Europe)

 Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, India, Rest of APAC)

 South America (Brazil and the Rest of South America)

 The Middle East and Africa (UAE, South Africa, Rest of MEA)



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About the report:



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Daylong event introduces high school students of color to travel opportunities, careers in the industry

NEW YORK, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Internova Travel Group is hosting the 2023 I AM C.U.L.T.U.R.E.D. (IAC) Youth Travel Summit, an annual program that gives high school students of color a chance to hear from insiders and influencers in the travel industry.

Internova Travel Group is hosting the 2023 I AM C.U.L.T.U.R.E.D. (IAC) Youth Travel Summit, an annual program that gives high school students of color a chance to hear from insiders and influencers in the travel industry.

The summit, which will take place on April 22 at Internova's New York City headquarters, is designed to help build the next generation of global travelers and introduce young people to the variety of opportunities for careers in travel and tourism.

"The Youth Travel Summit aligns perfectly with one of our core values, Everyone Belongs," said Kathy Christianson, who heads up diversity, equity and inclusion at Internova Travel Group. "We believe in the power that comes from a diverse team, inclusive of all people and thought. This fosters high performance within our company and helps our business compete on the global stage. We are proud to partner with I AM C.U.L.T.U.R.E.D. to introduce the vast opportunities within the travel industry to the next generation of travel leaders."

IAC is devoted to empowering high school youth of color to become innovative global citizens through experiential learning, mentorship and cultural experiences. It organizes travel abroad programs, provides opportunities for community service and offers monthly workshops on topics like financial literacy, wellness and college and career readiness.

"When the world shut down in 2020, our travel program was canceled but we remained devoted to providing our enrolled students with an opportunity to explore different cultures and hear from speakers in the travel industry with a digital passport and their laptop," said Karmia Berry, Executive Director of I AM C.U.L.T.U.R.E.D. "We are so excited for this opportunity in 2023 to expand the Youth Travel Summit in partnership with Internova, one of the world's largest travel services companies. As we aim to shape young global citizens to broaden their horizons, I know our students will walk away with a wealth of knowledge, resources and opportunities to inspire future travels of their own."

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Youth Travel Summit participants will have the opportunity to attend three panels:

BIPOC Travel: Traveling as a person of color is significantly different than most people's leisure travel, from advertising about trips to the experiences that travelers encounter at their destination. This panel will explore the wonders of traveling abroad, with cautious optimism. Stephen Scott, a luxury travel advisor with Global Travel Collection, a division of Internova Travel Group, will be part of this panel.

Careers in Travel: From 2010 to 2018, jobs in the travel and tourism industry increased 22 percent, compared with only 17 percent for jobs in the rest of the private sector, according to the U.S. Travel Association. In addition, as of last year, domestic and international travelers in the United States supported 8.9 million jobs, and hiring in the industry is only expected to grow. Paul Coverdale, Director, Partner Analytics for Internova Travel Group, will be part of this panel.

Study Abroad: Only about 5 percent of Americans who study abroad are Black, according to the Institute of International Education. The panel will discuss some of the key issues and areas where we can change the narrative. There'll also be an opportunity for students to ask questions before they embark on a study-abroad program and get some tips on traveling outside the United States, from what they should pack to how much money they should budget, to whether there'll be Wi-Fi.

A networking lunch will be sponsored by Delta Air Lines.

The event will conclude with a travel expo, giving the students a chance to talk with representatives from travel and hospitality companies, including Accor, AmaWaterways, Daily Harvest, Delta Vacations, Disney Destinations, Globus family of brands, Hyatt Hotels & Resorts, Insight Vacations, MSC Cruises, New York City Tourism + Conventions, Omni Hotels & Resorts, RCI, Singapore Tourism Board, Syracuse University Study Abroad Program and Internova's own Travel Leaders of Tomorrow, among others.

Editor's Note: If you are interested in attending the event, please email Elizabeth Gaerlan at egaerlan@internova.com.

About Internova Travel Group

Internova Travel Group is one of the largest travel services companies in the world with a collection of leading brands delivering high-touch, personal travel expertise to leisure and corporate clients. Internova manages leisure, business and franchise firms through a portfolio of distinctive divisions. Internova represents more than 100,000 travel advisors in over 6,000 company-owned and affiliated locations predominantly in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, with a presence in more than 80 countries.

About I AM C.U.L.T.U.R.E.D.

I AM C.U.L.T.U.R.E.D. is devoted to empowering high school youth of color to become innovative global citizens through experiential learning, mentorship and cultural experiences. The organization is passionately dedicated to promoting self-empowerment and appreciation for cultural richness and diversity and to creating global leaders of tomorrow who envision a life beyond their immediate communities while fulfilling personal and professional goals towards success.

CONTACT:

Elizabeth Gaerlan

egaerlan@internova.com

212-944-1125

(PRNewsfoto/Internova Travel Group)

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SOURCE Internova Travel Group
It's not a stretch to say that Selangor Dredging Berhad's (KLSE:SDRED) price-to-sales (or "P/S") ratio of 1.9x right now seems quite "middle-of-the-road" for companies in the Real Estate industry in Malaysia, where the median P/S ratio is around 1.6x. Although, it's not wise to simply ignore the P/S without explanation as investors may be disregarding a distinct opportunity or a costly mistake.

View our latest analysis for Selangor Dredging Berhad

How Selangor Dredging Berhad Has Been Performing

For example, consider that Selangor Dredging Berhad's financial performance has been poor lately as its revenue has been in decline. It might be that many expect the company to put the disappointing revenue performance behind them over the coming period, which has kept the P/S from falling. If you like the company, you'd at least be hoping this is the case so that you could potentially pick up some stock while it's not quite in favour.

Want the full picture on earnings, revenue and cash flow for the company? Then our free report on Selangor Dredging Berhad will help you shine a light on its historical performance.

Do Revenue Forecasts Match The P/S Ratio?

The only time you'd be comfortable seeing a P/S like Selangor Dredging Berhad's is when the company's growth is tracking the industry closely.

In reviewing the last year of financials, we were disheartened to see the company's revenues fell to the tune of 19%. The last three years don't look nice either as the company has shrunk revenue by 64% in aggregate. Accordingly, shareholders would have felt downbeat about the medium-term rates of revenue growth.

Weighing that medium-term revenue trajectory against the broader industry's one-year forecast for expansion of 3.8% shows it's an unpleasant look.

With this information, we find it concerning that Selangor Dredging Berhad is trading at a fairly similar P/S compared to the industry. It seems most investors are ignoring the recent poor growth rate and are hoping for a turnaround in the company's business prospects. Only the boldest would assume these prices are sustainable as a continuation of recent revenue trends is likely to weigh on the share price eventually.

Story continues

What Does Selangor Dredging Berhad's P/S Mean For Investors?

It's argued the price-to-sales ratio is an inferior measure of value within certain industries, but it can be a powerful business sentiment indicator.

The fact that Selangor Dredging Berhad currently trades at a P/S on par with the rest of the industry is surprising to us since its recent revenues have been in decline over the medium-term, all while the industry is set to grow. Even though it matches the industry, we're uncomfortable with the current P/S ratio, as this dismal revenue performance is unlikely to support a more positive sentiment for long. If recent medium-term revenue trends continue, it will place shareholders' investments at risk and potential investors in danger of paying an unnecessary premium.

We don't want to rain on the parade too much, but we did also find 3 warning signs for Selangor Dredging Berhad (2 are potentially serious!) that you need to be mindful of.

If strong companies turning a profit tickle your fancy, then you'll want to check out this free list of interesting companies that trade on a low P/E (but have proven they can grow earnings).

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 program will work to build the next generation of mental health clinicians needed to serve the District's most vulnerable populations

WASHINGTON, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- To assuage the shortage of mental health clinicians desperately needed in under-resourced communities, The J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation has committed $2.3 million dollars over 2 years to Unity Health Care to establish The J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation Behavioral Health Development Fund. This transformational gift allows Unity to recruit and train the next generation of mental health providers, with a focus on models of care that improve outcomes and drive health equity, with the goal of meeting this critical workforce need. The program will be modeled after Unity's hallmark family medicine and nurse practitioner residency programs.

New Logo (PRNewsfoto/Unity Health Care)

"Like so many health care organizations, we continue to see the impacts of the pandemic highlighting disparities, including heightened mental health challenges. At Unity we are proud to be a teaching health center and are deeply committed to training the next generation of providers interested in working in community health centers and with under-resourced populations." said Unity Health Care President and CEO Dr. Jessica Henderson Boyd. "I am grateful we can now bring innovation and resources to the mental health space. This program will change lives."

The Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA) designation is used by the federal government to identify areas and population groups within the United States that are experiencing a shortage of health professionals. Federal regulations stipulate that, to be considered as having a shortage of providers for mental health, the population to provider ratio must be at least 30,000 to 1. As of September 2021, only 5.3% of the need was met in the District of Columbia. This problem is exacerbated even further in under-resourced communities like Wards 7 and 8 in the District. Despite severe shortages, Unity has worked to meet patient needs in several ways including by educating primary care providers on screening for depression and anxiety and initiating medical treatment and supporting other inter-professional collaborations to support patients at the point of care through mental health first aid training. While these efforts have provided critical support, they do not replace the value of having trained, culturally competent staff available to help patients improve their mental wellness and provide coping strategies that will help improve their overall health.

Story continues

"We are thrilled to partner with Unity Health Care to establish The J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation Behavioral Health Development Fund," said Mieka Wick, executive director at The J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation. "We know Unity Health Care is as committed as we are to health equity and building and sustaining effective solutions to meet the needs of the DC community. Efforts to grow the pipeline of mental health practitioners are key steps in building a thriving DC."

The program is scheduled to launch in fall of 2023.

Unity Health Care reaches people wherever they are to provide compassionate, comprehensive, high-quality health care that is accessible to all and advances health equity in Washington, DC. As the largest network of community health centers in the District our team of compassionate and multicultural health professionals place Unity values into action every day to bring whole-person care and wellness to nearly 100,000 patients through 475,000 visits annually through our network of over 28 traditional and non-traditional health sites and a mobile medical outreach vehicle. https://www.unityhealthcare.org

Contact: mediarequest@unityhealthcare.org

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SOURCE Unity Health Care
By Jonathan Stempel

NEW YORK (Reuters) - A federal judge on Tuesday ordered JPMorgan Chase & Co CEO Jamie Dimon to set aside two days for depositions about what he knew about the bank's relationship with sex offender and former client Jeffrey Epstein.

The largest U.S. bank faces lawsuits seeking damages by women who claim that Epstein sexually abused them, and by the U.S. Virgin Islands, where the late financier had a home.

JPMorgan is separately suing former private banking chief Jes Staley, claiming he concealed what he knew about Epstein and should cover losses it may incur in the two lawsuits.

U.S. District Judge Jed Rakoff in Manhattan said Dimon can be questioned by the plaintiffs' lawyers for five hours, and by Staley's lawyer for two hours.

Rakoff may allow more time if anyone requests it. JPMorgan had offered to make Dimon available for three hours. An Oct. 23 trial is scheduled.

"The plaintiffs' counsel know our CEO has no relevant knowledge, but persist with this media stunt," JPMorgan said in a statement. "A review of more than two decades of emails and other documents makes it clear that he had no involvement with Epstein or his accounts. He does not recall ever meeting, speaking or communicating with him."

Epstein was a JPMorgan client from 2000 to 2013, remaining so after pleading guilty in 2008 to a Florida state prostitution charge.

In court papers, JPMorgan has been accused of knowing by 2006 that Epstein paid cash to have underage girls and young women brought to his home, and ignoring several internal warnings to cut ties with him.

Dimon joined JPMorgan in 2004 and became CEO in December 2005. He has not been accused of wrongdoing.

Lawyers for the plaintiffs and Staley did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Staley, who was Barclays Plc's CEO from 2015 to 2021, has expressed regret for being friendly with Epstein.

In August 2019, Epstein died of an apparent suicide in a Manhattan jail cell while awaiting trial for sex trafficking.

The cases in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of New York are: Jane Doe 1 v JPMorgan Chase & Co, No. 22-10019; Government of the U.S. Virgin Islands v JPMorgan Chase Bank NA, No. 22-10904; and JPMorgan Chase Bank NA v Staley, in Nos. 22-10019 and 22-10904.

(Reporting by Jonathan Stempel in New York; Editing by Marguerita Choy)
Kane Biotech Inc.

Skouts Honor to license coactiv+ in North American pet specialty markets.

WINNIPEG, Manitoba, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Kane Biotech Inc. (TSX-V:KNE OTCQB:KNBIF) (the Company, Kane or Kane Biotech) announces that it has signed a licensing agreement with Skouts Honor Pet Supply Company (Skouts Honor) for its patented coactiv+ technology in pet oral care applications.



Skouts Honor has been granted a ten-year license for the non-exclusive use of Kanes coactiv+ technology under their own brand in North America while STEM Animal Health (STEM), a subsidiary of Kane and joint venture formed with Animalcare Group PLC, will continue to commercialize its bluestem line of pet oral care products. STEM will receive a $500,000 USD licensing fee from Skouts Honor to be paid over the course of the agreement as well as an ongoing royalty on all Skouts Honors sales of products that use the coactiv+ technology.

Were thrilled to partner with Skouts Honor. They are a leading, high-quality, and sought-after brand in multiple pet specialty categories, with a well-established network of pet retailers across North America. We expect that they will do very well with our coactiv+ technology, said Marc Edwards, President and Chief Executive Officer of Kane Biotech and STEMs Chairman of the Board.

Skouts Honor prides itself in providing life-changing pet products through the use of innovative and proven technology, said Pete Stirling, President and CEO of Skouts Honor. We have been admirers of coactiv+ for some time and are extremely excited to incorporate it into a new Skouts Honor Oral Care line to support our network of pet specialty retailers and loyal customer base later this year.

Skout's Honor is a leading, award-winning pet specialty brand that is known for its collection of products that are life-changing for pets and the people who love them. Its current product categories include plant-based stain and odor solutions, probiotic grooming and wellness products, flea and tick solutions and preventative training aids. Together with their customers, Skouts Honor provides a days worth of food to an animal in need with every product sold through its Paw Pledge Program in partnership with Greater Good Charities' GOODS Program. As an environmentally responsible and socially conscious company, Skouts Honor helps nurture more adoptable pets and make a greater impact for good. To date, more than 15 million meals have been donated.

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Although STEM will continue to commercialize the bluestem line of products across North America, Kevin Cole, STEMs President and CEO will be departing the company.

We want to thank Kevin for his contribution to STEM these past couple of years and wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors, said Marc Edwards.

About STEM Animal Health

In September 2020, Kane formed STEM as a joint venture with Animalcare Group plc (Animalcare). STEM is dedicated to treating biofilm-related ailments in animals. STEM has a global license over Kanes existing range of animal health oral care products and in collaboration with Animalcare focuses on the research and development of novel animal treatments based on biofilm targeting technology. Animalcare has a one-third plus one share equity interest in STEM with the balance owned by Kane.

About Kane Biotech

Kane Biotech is a biotechnology company engaged in the research, development and commercialization of technologies and products that prevent and remove microbial biofilms. The Company has a portfolio of biotechnologies, intellectual property (80 patents and patents pending, trade secrets and trademarks) and products developed by the Company's own biofilm research expertise and acquired from leading research institutions. StrixNB, DispersinB, Aledex, bluestem, bluestem, silkstem, goldstem, coactiv+, coactiv+, DermaKB and DermaKB Biofilm are trademarks of Kane Biotech Inc. The Company is listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "KNE" and on the OTCQB Venture Market under the symbol KNBIF.

For more information: Marc Edwards Ray Dupuis Nicole Sendey Chief Executive Officer Chief Financial Officer Investor Relations/PR Kane Biotech Inc Kane Biotech Inc Kane Biotech Inc medwards@kanebiotech.com rdupuis@kanebiotech.com nsendey@kanebiotech.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.

Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains certain statements regarding Kane Biotech Inc. that constitute forward-looking information under applicable securities law. These statements reflect managements current beliefs and are based on information currently available to management. Certain material factors or assumptions are applied in making forward-looking statements, and actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, risks relating to the Companys: (a) financial condition, including lack of significant revenues to date and reliance on equity and other financing; (b) business, including its early stage of development, government regulation, market acceptance for its products, rapid technological change and dependence on key personnel; (c) intellectual property including the ability of the Company to protect its intellectual property and dependence on its strategic partners; and (d) capital structure, including its lack of dividends on its common shares, volatility of the market price of its common shares and public company costs. Further information about these and other risks and uncertainties can be found in the disclosure documents filed by the Company with applicable securities regulatory authorities, available at www.sedar.com. The Company cautions that the foregoing list of factors that may affect future results is not exhaustive.




LONDON, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- London-based Fintech Lanistar Limited is preparing for launch in the UK, which is expected to take place this Spring, 2023. Over the last two years Lanistar has invested heavily in building a winning proposition in Latin America (LATAM) and has successfully launched in Brazil with over 41,000 customers on-board. This is the result of important investments in both their technology but also the team now headed by Jeremy Baber a financial services veteran (ex-GE Capital, Aldermore Bank and Link Financial).

Lanistar

This early success in Brazil is extremely promising and will be followed by further expansion in the LATAM markets. Lanistar expects to grow to over 1 million customers by mid-2023.

Lanistar's focus in the UK and EU has taken a backseat due to unprecedented interest experienced in LATAM, but now the Company is planning to refocus its expansion on its 'home-turf', using the valuable and exciting learnings from their proposition in the Latin American market.

Lanistar's CEO, Jeremy Baber, explains: "The key to our launch (in Brazil) and those to follow in other parts of LATAM, has been our alliance partnership with Mastercard members, who offered a 'Banking as a Service' solution. This means Lanistar has a 'one-stop shop' solution for market entry in the region, offering a full suite of services including Bank Accounts, Card Issuing, fully digital onboarding, and best of breed Regulatory Compliance, KYC, and Transaction Monitoring.

"This has allowed Lanistar to concentrate on customer acquisition via our ever-growing social influencer family, and best-of-breed customer service, and continue development of the customer proposition with new and innovative services. The successful launch we have seen in Brazil with Bankly/Acesso Solutions, has made us review our growth plans in other regions. This means we are making a change in the UK and EU."

Such change, as referred to by Baber, is in seeking a UK and EU partner who can provide that same 'one-stop shop' solution enjoyed by Lanistar in Latin America. To that end, Lanistar has chosen to change its UK and EU partner from Modulr to its current card provider, whom Lanistar believes offers the solutions Lanistar requires.

Story continues

Baber clarified: "We have had a close relationship with Modulr over the past two years and respect them in the industry, but regrettably they could not offer the Full Banking solution which has been key to our success in LATAM. Our current Mastercard Partner, can now offer us that same 'one stop shop' for the UK and EU. Therefore, it was logical to make a clean break from Modulr and put our reliance fully on them for our full UK launch and later in the year in Europe."

When asked about the FCA and Lanistar's agency status he replied: "Yes, we lose our FCA agency of Modulr registration but in reality, the majority of Fintech's have sought this moniker as a 'badge of honour' rather than actually provide the services to their customers. We are being honest, we are a distributor of our Partner's services via our Brand and Mobile Application  our Partner should and must control the regulated elements of what we distribute, it is the correct model and how I believe the FCA intended Fintech to develop."

About Lanistar

Lanistar was founded in 2019 by entrepreneur Gurhan Kiziloz, whose ambition is to build a fintech unicorn that truly challenges the status quo of old-fashioned, traditional banking services.

Using modern technology and working with industry-leading partners, the Lanistar team is building a platform that provides a total 'AnyMoney' solution for its customers. This will give customers access to all their financial products in one place, from general bank accounts all the way through to cryptocurrency.

Lanistar is not a bank but a payment card provider, operating as an intermediary that offers financial services to end users. Lanistar offers the services of a typical bank account through its banking partner Modulr, but with advanced UI/UX and design to make it easier and more secure than high street banks.

Lanistar Ltd is a registered EMD agent (FRN:902996) of Modulr FS Limited and may distribute and redeem e-money and provide payment services. Modulr FS Limited is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority ("FCA") under the Electronic Money Regulations 2011 (FRN: 900573) for the issuing of electronic money and to provide payment services. Lanistar Limited ("Lanistar") is currently only carrying our pre-launch marketing in preparation for the future launch of Lanistar branded payment cards ("Cards"). Lanistar is finalising arrangements with various partner firms who are authorised and/or regulated (by the FCA and other overseas regulators) and the Cards will only be launched and go-live when those arrangements are in place.

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2056890/Lanistar.jpg

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SOURCE Lanistar
Lincoln (F) unveiled a brand new Nautilus crossover Tuesday night with a little twist. The new Nautilus will be imported  from China.

A brand new design, including a totally revamped interior with some serious tech, and a bigger footprint are part of a slew of updates coming to the car in early 2024. The Nautilus is positioned a step above the entry-level Corsair in the Lincoln portfolio and shares some design elements with that car (which was redesigned for the 2023 model year) and with its bigger brother, the Aviator. The new Nautilus pricing slots in below the Aviator, starting at $51,810.

2024 Lincoln Nautilus preproduction model shown. Available early 2024. The screens show in this story are simulated and subject to change.

The Nautilus features what appears to be a shorter, more raked roofline, with a more aggressive front-end. With its side strake and Nautilus badging, the crossover has a strong resemblance to the Range Rover Sport.

Inside the all new cabin is a Lincoln-first wraparound digital display that sits behind the oval-shaped steering wheel. The display extends completely along the front dash, all the way to the front passenger seat. Another touchscreen display sits below the wraparound dash screen for access to the cars functions like infotainment and climate control.

2024 Lincoln Nautilus preproduction model: a "fully-immersive digital environment."

The cabin aesthetic, with its fully-immersive digital environment, is likely signaling the future for Lincoln as it becomes fully electric by 2030. For the time being, however, the Nautilus will be powered by a traditional gas-powered engine but also a hybrid powertrain as well  capable of 300 horsepower.

Certainly in the medium premium utility where Nautilus competes, being able to offer gas and a hybrid alternative for our customers right now is a nice option for them, Lincoln President Diane Craig said in an interview with Yahoo Finance. Today, 75% of consumers are still choosing between gas and hybrid engines, and we're really pleased to have that alternative for our customers.

The hybrid powertrain is a welcome touch in a field dominated by models like the Audi Q5, BMW X3, Lexus RX, and Cadillac XT5.

Story continues

2024 Lincoln Nautilus: Available early 2024.

When the new Nautilus hits the showrooms early next year, it wont be rolling off the assembly lines in North America but rather in China. Lincoln, which is a popular brand in China, will build the Nautilus at its plant in Hangzhou in Zhejiang Province.

As we begin to retool Oakville Assembly Complex (Canada) in the second quarter of 2024  where the current Nautilus is produced  to prepare for production of the next-generation EVs, we will need to move Nautilus production, Craig said. With all our plants utilized in North America with product, this move makes good business sense, allowing us to leverage manufacturing efficiencies as we already build the Nautilus in China today.

While it makes business sense to build the Nautilus in China, the move to import the Nautilus is not without its critics. The United Auto Workers, for one, isnt impressed and has called U.S. automakers making cars in China a slap in the face. Fords rival GM makes its Buick Envision SUV in China as well.

Will the China effect hurt sales? That remains to be seen. Right now, the new Nautilus looks like it will be a solid contender in the highly-competitive mid-size premium SUV segment when it goes on sale next year.



Pras Subramanian is a reporter for Yahoo Finance. You can follow him on Twitter and on Instagram.

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Genting Berhad's (KLSE:GENTING) price-to-sales (or "P/S") ratio of 0.8x might make it look like a buy right now compared to the Hospitality industry in Malaysia, where around half of the companies have P/S ratios above 1.8x and even P/S above 4x are quite common. Although, it's not wise to just take the P/S at face value as there may be an explanation why it's limited.

See our latest analysis for Genting Berhad

What Does Genting Berhad's P/S Mean For Shareholders?

With revenue growth that's inferior to most other companies of late, Genting Berhad has been relatively sluggish. The P/S ratio is probably low because investors think this lacklustre revenue performance isn't going to get any better. If you still like the company, you'd be hoping revenue doesn't get any worse and that you could pick up some stock while it's out of favour.

Want the full picture on analyst estimates for the company? Then our free report on Genting Berhad will help you uncover what's on the horizon.

How Is Genting Berhad's Revenue Growth Trending?

The only time you'd be truly comfortable seeing a P/S as low as Genting Berhad's is when the company's growth is on track to lag the industry.

Retrospectively, the last year delivered an exceptional 65% gain to the company's top line. Although, its longer-term performance hasn't been as strong with three-year revenue growth being relatively non-existent overall. So it appears to us that the company has had a mixed result in terms of growing revenue over that time.

Looking ahead now, revenue is anticipated to climb by 8.8% per year during the coming three years according to the analysts following the company. Meanwhile, the rest of the industry is forecast to expand by 27% per year, which is noticeably more attractive.

With this information, we can see why Genting Berhad is trading at a P/S lower than the industry. Apparently many shareholders weren't comfortable holding on while the company is potentially eyeing a less prosperous future.

Story continues

The Key Takeaway

Typically, we'd caution against reading too much into price-to-sales ratios when settling on investment decisions, though it can reveal plenty about what other market participants think about the company.

As expected, our analysis of Genting Berhad's analyst forecasts confirms that the company's underwhelming revenue outlook is a major contributor to its low P/S. Right now shareholders are accepting the low P/S as they concede future revenue probably won't provide any pleasant surprises. Unless these conditions improve, they will continue to form a barrier for the share price around these levels.

Plus, you should also learn about this 1 warning sign we've spotted with Genting Berhad.

If these risks are making you reconsider your opinion on Genting Berhad, explore our interactive list of high quality stocks to get an idea of what else is out there.

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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Lynx Air

To celebrate, Lynx is offering up to 50 per cent off base fares on all Montreal routes

LYNX AIR ADDS MONTREAL TO VANCOUVER

Lynx Air adds Montreal to Vancouver

CALGARY, Alberta, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Lynx Air (Lynx), Canadas leading low-cost carrier, today announced a further expansion of its Montreal network, with the introduction of services between Montreal and Vancouver from June 23, 2023.



Lynx will offer six flights per week between Montreal Trudeau International Airport (YUL) and Vancouver International Airport (YVR). The airline recently announced services from Montreal to Calgary and St Johns commencing on June 5, 2023. With the addition of Vancouver services, the airline will be operating over 6,400 seats to and from Montreal.

Customers can book with confidence starting today and the fares are truly ultra-affordable, starting from $69* one-way Montreal to/from Vancouver. To celebrate, the airline has launched a limited-time seat sale, offering up to 50 per cent off all base fares on all Montreal routes. The sale will run from April 18, 2023, ending at 11:59 PM EDT on April 19, 2023, and can be accessed with the promo code: MONTREAL. For complete details and to book an ultra-affordable fare, visit FlyLynx.com.

Vancouver and Montreal are two of Canadas most iconic tourism destinations, with their rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. We are thrilled to provide an ultra-affordable option to connect these two beautiful cities, said Merren McArthur, CEO of Lynx. Historically Montreal and Quebec have been under-served by low-cost carriers, and Lynx Air aims to change that. We now offer services from three destinations to Montreal, including the recently announced services from Calgary and St Johns. Whether you are travelling to visit friends and family, or to explore one of these vibrant cities, Lynx will ensure a great flying experience at an ultra-affordable price.

Todays announcement represents a continuation of Lynx Airs network ramp-up, as the airline prepares to expand its fleet to 9 brand new Boeing 737 aircraft over the coming months. By Summer 2023, Lynx will serve 16 destinations across North America with over 240 flights per week, which equates to over 45,000 seats.

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Lynx Air Summer Schedule Calgary to/from Fredericton** Toronto to/from Edmonton Calgary to/from Halifax** Toronto to/from Fredericton Calgary to/from Hamilton Toronto to/from Halifax Calgary to/from Kelowna Toronto to/from Kelowna** Calgary to/from Las Vegas Toronto to/from Orlando Calgary to/from Los Angeles Toronto to/from St. Johns Calgary to/from Montreal Toronto to/from Vancouver Calgary to/from Phoenix Toronto to/from Winnipeg Calgary to/from St. Johns** Montreal to/from St. Johns Calgary to/from Toronto Montreal to/from Vancouver Calgary to/from Vancouver Vancouver to/from Winnipeg Calgary to/from Victoria Vancouver to/from Hamilton** Calgary to/from Winnipeg Edmonton to/from Halifax** Edmonton to/from St. Johns**



*Available for a limited time; fares are accurate at the time of release and include taxes and fees; fares vary by destination and date.

**Operating as through flights with a single boarding pass and baggage transferred to the final destination. Visit the website for full schedule details.

About Lynx Air

Lynx Air (Lynx), Canada's leading ultra-low-cost airline, is on a mission to make air travel accessible to all, with ultra-affordable fares and a customer-focused flying experience. In its first year, the airline achieved the lowest cancellation rate in Canada and was awarded Youngest Fleet in North America by ch-aviation. Lynx operates a brand-new fleet of Boeing 737 aircraft, bringing an elevated customer experience to low-cost travel in Canada. These ultra-efficient and reliable aircraft reduce Lynxs carbon footprint, making Lynx one of Canadas most sustainable airlines. Lynx is a privately owned Canadian airline with the financial backing and industry expertise required to transform the Canadian aviation landscape.

Visit FlyLynx.com or connect with Lynx on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram to learn more.

Media contact:

Rose Bolton

Director, PR and Communications

media@lynxair.com

403-648-2800 ext. 2110

FlyLynx.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/09d9974f-ed83-418f-9c2a-5c590823012d




Turntide Technologies; The Macerich Company; Motus Power

23 mall locations to be retrofitted with the Smart Motor System to save more than 1.5M kWh

Macerich Los Cerritos Mall Location

Macerich worked with Motus Power and Turntide to improve energy efficiency and drive down carbon emissions at 23 mall locations across the country.

Turntide Smart Motor System

Turntides Smart Motor System as an HVAC retrofit solution can reduce energy consumption up to 64% helping buildings to reduce carbon emissions.

Learn more about the Macerich energy efficiency project with Motus Power and Turntide Technologies.

SUNNYVALE, Calif., April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Macerich Company (NYSE: MAC), one of the nations leading owners, operators and developers of one-of-a-kind retail and mixed-use properties in top markets, is working with Motus Power and Turntide Technologies (Turntide) to help decarbonize and reduce energy consumption at 23 mall locations across the country.

Motus Power, a leading installer of energy-saving solutions specializing in HVAC efficiency projects, introduced Turntides Smart Motor System as an HVAC retrofit solution to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions. A pilot program at Macerichs Los Cerritos Center demonstrated impressive results, with 56% energy savings over the existing AC induction motors in its rooftop HVAC units.

Macerich has a goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030. By working with Motus Power and Turntide, were able to accelerate our energy reduction program without impacting our daily operations or shopper experiences, said Ryan Knudson, vice president of corporate responsibility & sustainability, Macerich. Like upgrading to LED lighting, retrofitting our HVAC systems with high-efficiency motors offers the benefits of reducing both operating costs and greenhouse gas emissions.

Turntides motors are currently in 18 shopping center locations across the U.S. and will scale to more than 20 throughout the year. Across all sites, the projected energy savings will be more than 1.5 million kWh, equating to a carbon reduction of over 1,000 metric tons of CO2. Thats the same environmental impact as using 120,000 fewer gallons of gas or carbon sequestered by 1,258 acres of forests in one year.

Retrofitting HVAC is essential in helping the world reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Buildings consume nearly 40% of the worlds energy and account for a similar percentage of global CO2 emissions. HVAC equipment consumes 35% of the energy used in buildings, and 30% of that is wasted by inefficient equipment and controls.

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We are constantly looking for technologies that offer greater energy savings and optimizing HVAC efficiency is a high-impact energy conservation measure that delivers immediate and long-term savings, said John Huddock, co-founder, Motus Power. Turntides Smart Motor System is a breakthrough technology that provides tremendous benefits for businesses and the environment.

Turntide leveraged recent software, connectivity, and power electronics advances to revolutionize the electronic motor. Like bringing the fixed landline phone into the smartphone age, Turntides Smart Motor System integrates a reinvented switched reluctance motor with software-driven intelligence and connectivity to deliver unprecedented efficiency and reliability. Turntide makes sustainability a no-brainer, economically and environmentally  empowering businesses to save money while helping save the planet.

Right now, there is no path to 100% renewable energy sources without drastically reducing the amount of energy we use and modernizing the worlds motors is essential in the fight against climate change, said Kevin Blakeborough, vice president of channel strategy, Turntide. An intelligent motor system can minimize energy use and maintenance costs, but also spread savings to broader areas of spending like HVAC and building operations.

About Macerich

Macerich is a fully integrated, self-managed, and self-administered real estate investment trust (REIT). As a leading owner, operator, and developer of high-quality retail real estate in densely populated and attractive U.S. markets, Macerichs portfolio is concentrated in California, the Pacific Northwest, Phoenix/Scottsdale, and the Metro New York to Washington, D.C. corridor. Developing and managing properties that serve as community cornerstones, Macerich currently owns 48 million square feet of real estate consisting primarily of interests in 44 regional town centers. Macerich is firmly dedicated to advancing environmental goals, social good and sound corporate governance. A recognized leader in sustainability, Macerich has achieved a #1 GRESB ranking for the North American retail sector for eight years (2015-2022). For more information, please visit www.Macerich.com.

About Motus Power

Motus Power is a leading installer of cutting-edge energy-saving technologies and solutions on a national scale, specializing in turnkey multi-site rollouts. Motus works with its customers to create energy conservation strategies that deliver ROI while positively impacting the environment. Offering national turnkey installations, Motus has highly trained technicians and managers to customize, install, test, and maintain solutions for the life of the product. For more information, visit www.motuspower.com.

About Turntide Technologies

Turntide Technologies Inc. invents and scales breakthrough technologies to accelerate electrification and sustainable operations for energy-intensive industries. Turntides integrated, open systems support commercial and industrial vehicles, building operations, and agriculture to optimize how the world uses energy. Turntide enables companies to lead their industries by attacking energy waste at every level and operating smarter for accelerated growth. For more information, visit https://turntide.com/ or follow the company on YouTube, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/44a6d5b9-ee9b-49ea-b647-54a83d705d28

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/6ef0c3cb-e83c-4458-ac81-7ee808f02cef

A video accompanying this announcement is available at:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/415582ea-5866-4234-ab3c-000880ae2cc3

CONTACT: contact: jocelyn@turntide.com




Mackenzie Corporate Knights Global 100 Index ETF and Mutual Fund offer Canadian investors an all-in-one core global equity solution

TORONTO, April 18, 2023 /CNW/ - In advance of Earth Day, Mackenzie Investments ("Mackenzie") announced the launch of the Mackenzie Corporate Knights Global 100 Index ETF ("the ETF") and Mackenzie Corporate Knights Global 100 Index Fund ("the Fund"). These new investment solutions allow investors to access opportunities within the Corporate Knights' top 100 global sustainable companies.

Mackenzie Investments Logo (CNW Group/Mackenzie Investments)

The ETF and Fund seek to replicate the performance of the Corporate Knights Global 100 Index ("CKG 100" or "the Index"), which consists of a diverse selection of global companies with strong management, enduring financial strength and exceptional performance in 25 measures of sustainability developed and maintained by Corporate Knights. To achieve this, the ETF intends to hold the constituent securities of the Index in equal weighting, rebalanced annually, while the Fund will invest in the ETF.

"More than ever Canadians want to consider the sustainability impact of their investments, and the Mackenzie Corporate Knights Global 100 Index ETF and Fund offer them efficient, simple solutions to access the growth taking place within companies that are leading the way when it comes to sustainability," said Luke Gould, President and CEO, Mackenzie Investments. "We're proud to be working alongside Corporate Knights, a leading sustainable economy research firm, to offer these all-in-one, diversified solutions that align with Canadians' values."

Securities held by the ETF and included in the CKG 100 are publicly traded companies with over USD$1 billion in annual revenue that operate in a sustainable fashion, scoring highly in sustainability categories that include energy efficiency, waste, emissions, water use, pay equity, diversity, sustainable suppliers and more.

"The Mackenzie Global 100 ETF is a natural progression of our flagship index, which has been identifying industry leaders at the forefront of the sustainability transition since 2005," said Toby Heaps, CEO and co-founder of Corporate Knights. "We're excited to work alongside Mackenzie in their effort to deliver investment solutions that allow Canadians to move the needle by accessing the world's top sustainable companies."

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"Mackenzie Investments and Corporate Knights share the belief that responsibly run businesses can create value for investors," added Mr. Gould. "With the Mackenzie Corporate Knights Global 100 Index ETF and Fund, Canadian investors can feel good about investing in growth-oriented companies that are committed to sustainable practices."

The initial offering of the ETF has closed, and it will begin trading today on the NEO exchange under the ticker symbol MCKG. The Fund will be available to retail investors through their licensed mutual fund dealers on April 20, 2023.

About Mackenzie Investments

Mackenzie Investments is a leading investment management firm with $194 billion in assets under management as of March 31, 2023. Mackenzie provides investment solutions and related services to more than one million retail and institutional clients through multiple distribution channels. Founded in 1967, Mackenzie is a global asset manager with offices across Canada as well as in Boston, Dublin, London, Hong Kong and Beijing. Mackenzie is a member of IGM Financial Inc. (TSX: IGM), one of Canada's premier financial services companies with approximately $260 billion in total assets under management and advisement as of March 31, 2023. For more information, visit mackenzieinvestments.com.

All rights reserved. "Corporate Knights Global 100" and other trademarks related to the Corporate Knights Global 100 Index (the Index) are trademarks of Corporate Knights Inc. (Corporate Knights) and are used by Mackenzie Financial Corporation under license.

Every effort is made to ensure that all information contained in this publication is accurate, but no responsibility or liability can be accepted by Corporate Knights for any errors or for any loss resulting from use of this publication. Corporate Knights does not make any claim, prediction, warranty or representation whatsoever, express or implied, either as to the results to be obtained from the use of the Index or the fitness or suitability of the Index for any particular purpose. Corporate Knights does not provide investment advice and nothing in this document should be taken as constituting financial or investment advice.

Inclusion of a security in an index is not a recommendation to buy, sell or hold that asset. Corporate Knights maintains the Index, but does not manage actual assets. Calculation of the Index is performed by a third party.

SOURCE Mackenzie Investments

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NEW YORK, April 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The marijuana market size is projected to grow by USD 48,197.88 million between 2022 and 2027, progressing at a CAGR of 24.86% during the forecast period, according to Technavio. North America will account for 90% of the market growth during the forecast period. Governments in the US and Canada have legalized the use of marijuana for medical purposes. Vendors operating in the region are introducing premium cannabis products such as pre-rolled joints, edibles, beverages, and bases to increase profit margins. Such factors are supporting the growth of the marijuana market in North America. For more insights on the historic data (2017 to 2021) and forecast market size (2023 to 2027)  Request a report sample

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Marijuana Market 2023-2027

Marijuana Market 2023-2027: Scope

Technavio presents a detailed picture of the market by the way of study, synthesis, and summation of data from multiple sources. Our marijuana market report covers the following areas:

Marijuana Market 2023-2027: Market Dynamics

Driver  The market is driven by the increasing legalization of marijuana. Governments across countries such as Australia, Canada, Chile, Greece, Israel, Italy, the Netherlands, Peru, and Uruguay are legalizing the use of marijuana for medical purposes. For instance, the increasing demand for medical marijuana in Australia has encouraged government authorities to increase funding for research. In June 2022, Thailand legalized the cultivation of marijuana and its consumption in raw materials for foods and drinks. Such legalization efforts by several countries are driving the growth of the global marijuana market.

Trend  The growth in the e-commerce industry is the key trend in the market. The increasing adoption of smartphones has made online shopping more convenient. This has encouraged many international e-commerce platforms to expand their operations across the world. The high adoption of online shopping has driven vendors to target the tech-savvy population and tap the growth potential in the new retail format. Taking business online is helping vendors reduce operational costs and overheads compared with physical stores. This trend is expected to have a positive influence on the growth of the market during the forecast period.

Challenge  Side effects associated with the inappropriate use of medical marijuana will challenge the growth of the market. Marijuana consists of active ingredients known as cannabinoids and cannabidiol (CBD). In addition, medical marijuana contains other chemicals that may vary from plant to plant. This can cause various side effects, such as changes in mood, lack of coordination, increased appetite, and red eyes. Hence, it is important to consult a doctor before using medical marijuana.

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Marijuana Market 2023-2027: Segmentation

The global marijuana market is segmented as below:

Product

Type

Geography

Based on the product, the market will witness significant growth in the medical marijuana segment during the forecast period. The increasing popularity of medical marijuana as an alternative to traditional pain-relieving medications is the key factor driving the growth of the segment. Also, the number of adults with chronic pain in countries such as the US is fueling the growth of the segment.

Get a glance at the market contribution of various segments, historic data (2017 to 2021), and forecast market size (2023 to 2027) - Download a Sample Report

Marijuana Market 2023-2027: Vendor Analysis

The report provides a detailed analysis of around 25 vendors operating in the marijuana market, including some of the key vendors. Backed with competitive intelligence and benchmarking, our research report on the marijuana market is designed to provide entry support, customer profile, and M&As as well as go-to-market strategy support.

Aurora Cannabis Inc., Bhang Inc., Botanic Lab, Cannabinoid Creations, CBD American Shaman LLC, CV Sciences Inc., Elixinol Wellness Ltd., HEXO Corp., Jazz Pharmaceuticals Plc, Lexaria Bioscience Corp, MM Enterprises USA LLC, Organigram Holdings Inc., Unrivaled Brands Inc., Cannoid LLC, Canopy Growth Corp., Folium Biosciences, Medical Marijuana Inc., Tikun Olam, Tilray Brands Inc., and VIVO Cannabis Inc. are some of the major market participants.

Although the increasing legalization of marijuana will offer immense growth opportunities, side effects associated with the inappropriate use of medical marijuana will challenge the growth of the market participants. To make the most of the opportunities, market vendors should focus more on the growth prospects in the fast-growing segments, while maintaining their positions in the slow-growing segments.

Why Buy?

Add credibility to strategy

Analyzes competitor's offerings

Get a holistic view of the market

Grow your profit margin with Technavio  Buy the Report!

Marijuana Market 2023-2027: Key Highlights

CAGR of the market during the forecast period 2023-2027

Detailed information on factors that will assist marijuana market growth during the next five years

Estimation of the marijuana market size and its contribution to the parent market

Predictions on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior

The growth of the marijuana market

Analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information on vendors

Comprehensive details of factors that will challenge the growth of marijuana market vendors

Related Reports:

The CBD oil market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 27.63% between 2022 and 2027. The size of the market is forecast to increase by USD 5,361.32 million. The market is segmented by end-user (medical, personal use, pharmaceutical, and wellness), product (marijuana-derived CBD oil and hemp-derived CBD oil), and geography (North America, South America, Europe, APAC, and Middle East and Africa).

The medical marijuana market size is expected to increase by USD 14.47 billion from 2021 to 2026, and the market's growth momentum will accelerate at a CAGR of 18.91%. The market is segmented by application (chronic pain, nausea, and others) and geography (North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa).

Gain instant access to 17,000+ market research reports. Technavio's SUBSCRIPTION platform

Marijuana Market Scope Report Coverage Details Base year 2022 Historic period 2017-2021 Forecast period 2023-2027 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 24.86% Market growth 2023-2027 USD 48,197.88 million Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2022-2023 (%) 22.39 Regional analysis North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa Performing market contribution North America at 90% Key countries US, Canada, Australia, Germany, and UK Competitive landscape Leading Vendors, Market Positioning of Vendors, Competitive Strategies, and Industry Risks Key companies profiled Aurora Cannabis Inc., Bhang Inc., Botanic Lab, Cannabinoid Creations, CBD American Shaman LLC, CV Sciences Inc., Elixinol Wellness Ltd., HEXO Corp., Jazz Pharmaceuticals Plc, Lexaria Bioscience Corp, MM Enterprises USA LLC, Organigram Holdings Inc., Unrivaled Brands Inc., Cannoid LLC, Canopy Growth Corp., Folium Biosciences, Medical Marijuana Inc., Tikun Olam, Tilray Brands Inc., and VIVO Cannabis Inc. Market dynamics Parent market analysis, market growth inducers and obstacles, fast-growing and slow-growing segment analysis, COVID-19 impact and recovery analysis and future consumer dynamics, and market condition analysis for the forecast period. Customization purview If our report has not included the data that you are looking for, you can reach out to our analysts and get segments customized.

Browse through Technavio's Consumer Staples Market Reports

Table of contents:

1 Executive Summary

1.1 Market overview

2 Market Landscape

2.1 Market ecosystem

3 Market Sizing

3.1 Market definition

3.2 Market segment analysis

3.3 Market size 2022

3.4 Market outlook: Forecast for 2022-2027

4 Historic Market Size

4.1 Global marijuana market 2017 - 2021

4.2 Product Segment Analysis 2017 - 2021

4.3 Type Segment Analysis 2017 - 2021

4.4 Geography Segment Analysis 2017 - 2021

4.5 Country Segment Analysis 2017 - 2021

5 Five Forces Analysis

5.1 Five forces summary

5.2 Bargaining power of buyers

5.3 Bargaining power of suppliers

5.4 Threat of new entrants

5.5 Threat of substitutes

5.6 Threat of rivalry

5.7 Market condition

6 Market Segmentation by Product

6.1 Market segments

6.2 Comparison by Product

6.3 Medical marijuana - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

6.4 Recreational marijuana - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

6.5 Market opportunity by Product

7 Market Segmentation by Type

7.1 Market segments

7.2 Comparison by Type

7.3 Oil and tinctures - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

7.4 Flower - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

7.5 Market opportunity by Type

8 Customer Landscape

8.1 Customer landscape overview

9 Geographic Landscape

9.1 Geographic segmentation

9.2 Geographic comparison

9.3 North America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

9.4 Europe - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

9.5 APAC - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

9.6 South America - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

9.7 Middle East and Africa - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

9.8 US - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

9.9 Canada - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

9.10 Germany - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

9.11 Australia - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

9.12 UK - Market size and forecast 2022-2027

9.13 Market opportunity by geography

10 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends

10.1 Market drivers

10.2 Market challenges

10.3 Impact of drivers and challenges

10.4 Market trends

11 Vendor Landscape

11.1 Overview

11.2 Vendor landscape

11.3 Landscape disruption

11.4 Industry risks

12 Vendor Analysis

12.1 Vendors covered

12.2 Market positioning of vendors

12.3 Aurora Cannabis Inc.

12.4 Bhang Inc.

12.5 Cannoid LLC

12.6 Canopy Growth Corp.

12.7 CBD American Shaman LLC

12.8 CV Sciences Inc.

12.9 Elixinol Wellness Ltd.

12.10 Jazz Pharmaceuticals Plc

12.11 Lexaria Bioscience Corp

12.12 Medical Marijuana Inc.

12.13 MM Enterprises USA LLC

12.14 Organigram Holdings Inc.

12.15 Tikun Olam

12.16 Tilray Brands Inc.

12.17 VIVO Cannabis Inc.

13 Appendix

13.1 Scope of the report

13.2 Inclusions and exclusions checklist

13.3 Currency conversion rates for US$

13.4 Research methodology

13.5 List of abbreviations

About Us

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

Contact

Technavio Research

Jesse Maida

Media & Marketing Executive

US: +1 844 364 1100

UK: +44 203 893 3200

Email: media@technavio.com

Website: www.technavio.com/

Global Marijuana Market 2023-2027

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SOURCE Technavio
To the annoyance of some shareholders, EROAD Limited (NZSE:ERD) shares are down a considerable 28% in the last month, which continues a horrid run for the company. For any long-term shareholders, the last month ends a year to forget by locking in a 80% share price decline.

Since its price has dipped substantially, EROAD may be sending bullish signals at the moment with its price-to-sales (or "P/S") ratio of 0.4x, since almost half of all companies in the Electronic industry in New Zealand have P/S ratios greater than 1.9x and even P/S higher than 9x are not unusual. However, the P/S might be low for a reason and it requires further investigation to determine if it's justified.

See our latest analysis for EROAD

What Does EROAD's Recent Performance Look Like?

With revenue growth that's superior to most other companies of late, EROAD has been doing relatively well. Perhaps the market is expecting future revenue performance to dive, which has kept the P/S suppressed. If not, then existing shareholders have reason to be quite optimistic about the future direction of the share price.

Want the full picture on analyst estimates for the company? Then our free report on EROAD will help you uncover what's on the horizon.

How Is EROAD's Revenue Growth Trending?

There's an inherent assumption that a company should underperform the industry for P/S ratios like EROAD's to be considered reasonable.

Retrospectively, the last year delivered an exceptional 62% gain to the company's top line. Pleasingly, revenue has also lifted 113% in aggregate from three years ago, thanks to the last 12 months of growth. Accordingly, shareholders would have definitely welcomed those medium-term rates of revenue growth.

Turning to the outlook, the next three years should generate growth of 10% per annum as estimated by the three analysts watching the company. Meanwhile, the rest of the industry is forecast to expand by 53% per annum, which is noticeably more attractive.

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With this information, we can see why EROAD is trading at a P/S lower than the industry. Apparently many shareholders weren't comfortable holding on while the company is potentially eyeing a less prosperous future.

The Key Takeaway

EROAD's recently weak share price has pulled its P/S back below other Electronic companies. We'd say the price-to-sales ratio's power isn't primarily as a valuation instrument but rather to gauge current investor sentiment and future expectations.

As we suspected, our examination of EROAD's analyst forecasts revealed that its inferior revenue outlook is contributing to its low P/S. Right now shareholders are accepting the low P/S as they concede future revenue probably won't provide any pleasant surprises. It's hard to see the share price rising strongly in the near future under these circumstances.

It's always necessary to consider the ever-present spectre of investment risk. We've identified 4 warning signs with EROAD (at least 2 which don't sit too well with us), and understanding them should be part of your investment process.

If these risks are making you reconsider your opinion on EROAD, explore our interactive list of high quality stocks to get an idea of what else is out there.

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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LEEDS, England, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Pioneer of meat free, and home to Quorn, the UK's No.1 meat free brand*1, Marlow Foods is announcing plans to make the super protein in Quorn, mycoprotein, available to other food and beverage manufacturers.

Marlow Ingredients Launch April 2023

Led by a new division, Marlow Ingredients, Marlow mycoprotein will be made available firstly in Europe and then internationally.

The announcement comes as last month's UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Synthesis Report highlighted that urgent action must now be taken, to "secure a liveable future for all".

Marco Bertacca, Marlow Foods CEO said: "We have been trailblazers in meat free since we sold our first Quorn product in 1985. We see it as our responsibility to provide healthy food for people and planet.

"We recognise the urgent need for humanity to eat more sustainably. By making our mycoprotein available to others, Marlow Ingredients will play a pivotal role in helping us achieve one of our missions  to tackle climate change by making great tasting food."

Marlow Foods' journey began in the 1960s based on one man's vision to protect the world. Lord Rank led what became over 20 years of research into the creation of Marlow mycoprotein.

"Now, backed by decades of research, we know it is one of the best sources of protein there is," adds Marco.

Marlow mycoprotein is naturally high in protein. It provides all nine essential amino acids, is low in saturated fat and contains several vitamins and minerals. It is also high in fibre, uses 90% less land and water and produces 98% less carbon emissions than equivalent beef products*2.

A recent study from Northumbria University has also found that eating mycoprotein increases healthy gut bacteria and leads to a significant reduction in intestinal genotoxins - which can cause bowel cancer.

Marlow Foods has a long and successful heritage having produced mycoprotein for almost 40 years. The core ingredient in over 100 Quorn branded products, it is also powering the success of Quorn with QSR and foodservice partners including KFC across Europe, Greggs in the UK and Quick restaurants in Belgium.

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"There's huge potential for our mycoprotein," concludes Marco. "Alongside the delicious meat like texture and incredible nutritional and sustainable benefits it's famous for, there's exciting research happening into its ability to create more sustainable versions of other applications, such as dairy alternatives. Marlow Ingredients is initially focussed on building partnerships with food manufacturers, but the potential for the future is very exciting."

The launch forms part of Marlow Food's mission to become a net positive business by 2030 and, in that year, provide 8 billion servings of mycoprotein - one for every person on the planet.

Find out more about the benefits of Marlow Ingredients' mycoprotein here www.marlowingredients.com

*1 IRI 12 All Outlets Value Sales w/e 28.01.23

*2 Quorn's Footprint Comparison Report (The Carbon Trust, 2022) is now available at https://www.quorn.co.uk/assets/files/content/Carbon-Trust-Comparison-Report-2022.pdf

Information issued on behalf of Marlow Ingredients by MTJ PR. For further information please contact Claire Murgatroyd or Luke Marsden on +44 (0)161-260-2100 or email claire@mtjpr.co.uk.

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SOURCE Marlow Ingredients
Brunswick Corporation

FOND DU LAC, Wis., April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Mercury Marine, a division of Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC), has announced the first group of Avator 7.5e electric outboards has shipped to global customers, representing a major milestone in Mercurys electrification strategy. The 7.5e is the first of Mercurys five Avator electric propulsion systems to be announced this year. During the 2023 Consumer Electronics Show in January, the company officially launched the 7.5e and displayed concepts of Avator 20e and 35e, both of which will be released later in 2023. Two additional electrification product announcements from Mercury will be made before the end of the year.

This is a historic and exciting day for Mercury Marine as we continue to deliver on our commitment to being the industry leader in both internal combustion products and electric propulsion, said John Buelow, Mercury Marine president. We look forward to all our customers around the world having the opportunity to experience Avator and to have the brand be prominently displayed globally.

The award-winning Avator 7.5e electric outboard delivers clean, quiet power with innovative features that make it simple for boaters to enjoy the water. Additionally, the swappable 1kWh lithium-ion battery was developed in partnership with Mastervolt (Navico Group) and engineered exclusively for marine applications. It's a safe, reliable 48V power source that is IP67 rated for water resistance and has a vivid full-color display that tracks battery level and range for confidently exploring the water. Avator is the first propulsion system from Mercury to be compatible with the all-new Mercury Marine app, available for iOS and Android devices.

U.S., ANZP, and EMEA customers and distributors will begin receiving the Avator 7.5e over the next few weeks with a steady stream of engines to be shipped throughout the year to all Mercury global customers. Those looking to power their boat with Avator are encouraged to contact their local dealer for more information on shipping dates. Learn more about Avator and Mercurys electrification strategy at MercuryMarine.com/Avator.

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About Mercury Marine

Headquartered in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, Mercury Marine is the worlds leading manufacturer of recreational marine propulsion engines. A division of Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC), Mercury provides engines, boats, services and parts for recreational, commercial and government marine applications. Mercury empowers boaters with products that are easy to use, extremely reliable and backed by the most dedicated customer support in the world. The companys industry-leading brand portfolio includes Mercury outboard engines, Mercury MerCruiser sterndrive and inboard packages, Mercury propellers, Mercury inflatable boats, Mercury SmartCraft electronics, Land 'N' Sea marine parts distribution and Mercury and Quicksilver parts and oils. More information is available at www.MercuryMarine.com .

About Brunswick Corporation

Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC) is the global leader in marine recreation, delivering innovation that transforms experiences on the water and beyond. Our unique, technology-driven solutions are informed and inspired by deep consumer insights and powered by our belief that Next Never Rests. Brunswick is dedicated to industry leadership, to being the best and most trusted partner to our many customers, and to building synergies and ecosystems that enable us to challenge convention and define the future. Brunswick is home to more than 60 industry-leading brands. In the category of Marine Propulsion, these brands include, Mercury Marine, Mercury Racing and MerCruiser. Brunswicks comprehensive collection of parts, accessories, distribution, and technology brands includes Mercury Parts & Accessories, Land N Sea, Lowrance, Simrad, B&G, Mastervolt, RELiON, Attwood and Whale. Our boat brands are some of the best known in the world, including Boston Whaler, Lund, Sea Ray, Bayliner, Harris Pontoons, Princecraft and Quicksilver. Our service, digital and shared-access businesses include Freedom Boat Club, Boateka and a range of financing, insurance, and extended warranty businesses. While focused primarily on the marine industry, Brunswick also successfully leverages its portfolio of advanced technologies to deliver an exceptional suite of solutions in mobile and industrial applications. Headquartered in Mettawa, IL, Brunswick has more than 18,500 employees operating in 29 countries. In 2022, Brunswick was named by Forbes as a Worlds Best Employer and as one of Americas Most Responsible Companies by Newsweek, both for the third consecutive year. For more information, visit brunswick.com.

CONTACT: Lee Gordon  Vice President  Corporate Communications, Public Relations & Public Affairs M: (904) 860-8848 | O: (847) 735-4003




MetAlert Inc.

LOS ANGELES, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MetAlert, Inc. (OTC: MLRT), a pioneer in location-sensitive health monitoring devices and wearable technology products for remote patient monitoring, announced the launch of its new 4G GPS SmartSole in Denmark through its long-term distribution partner Safecall Aps.



Safecall Aps who has been providing healthcare services for over 16 years and is one of the market leaders in providing GPS telehealth products to seniors in the private and government healthcare sectors throughout Denmark and Norway.

MetAlerts technology promotes lifestyle wellness and independence for patients who have become more vulnerable due to mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and therefore are more likely to be reliant for assistance from caregivers at any given moment.

We are excited to be sending the first shipments of the new generation of 4G GPS SmartSole to support the healthcare sector in Denmark and Norway. Our distribution partner Safecall supplies all of the leading Alzheimer and Dementia treatment centers and clinics in this part of Europe, stated Andrew Duncan, MetAlert Director. The Scandinavian countries are some of the most advanced countries in the world in the use of GPS tracking and remote patient monitoring technology for patients with MCI, consequently making it a large and important market for us. With our manufacturing ramping back up we are starting to fill our backorders and get back to normal delivery cycles.

The Alzheimers Association, in a lengthy special report providing data for 2022, notes that subtle cognitive changes, such as those in memory and thinking, are often a feature of aging, and about 12 to 18 percent of people, age 60 or older, are currently living with MCI.

For all press or sales inquiries, please contact MetAlert at info@metalert.com

About Safecall Aps

Safecall Denmark ApS, part of Sensio Holding AS, has been supplying GPS tracking systems to people with orientation difficulties and a tendency to wander for over 16 years. The Safecall localizing platform has continued to develop through the years and is now the market-leading platform in Denmark and Norway, used by thousands of people in the healthcare sector every day. The platform makes it possible to use different kinds of localizing equipment, but with the same easy user interface each time. This enables the healthcare staff to concentrate on the care and not on the IT systems. Safecall joined forces with Sensio AS in 2020 to expand the GPS tracking service in Norway.

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Sensio AS is part of Sensio Holding AS. Sensio Holding is a fast-growing Norwegian-based software and electronics company with a turnover of approximately US $28 Million. The company is the market leader in its areas in the municipal and private markets in Norway and Denmark.

Safecall contact details:

Tel : +45 70200780

Email: salg@safecall.dk

https://safecall.dk/

About MetAlert, Inc.

MetAlert (OTC: MLRT) and its subsidiaries are engaged in designing, developing, manufacturing, distributing, selling and licensing products, services and intellectual property in the GPS/BLE wearable technology, personal location, wandering assistive technology, and health data collection and monitoring. With over 20 years of experience and an extensive patent portfolio, MetAlert is a leading solution provider for consumers/patients afflicted with movement, cognitive and spatial awareness disorders. This market represents approximately 2.9% of the worlds population. The Company offers global end-to-end hardware, software, and connectivity solutions, in addition to developing two-way tracking technologies, which seamlessly integrate with consumer products, enterprise and government agency applications. Utilizing the latest in miniaturized, low power consumption GPS, Cellular, RF, NFC, and BLE technologies, enabling caregivers to track and monitor patients in real time. Known for its game-changing and award-winning patented GPS SmartSole -- think Dr. Scholls meets LoJack, the worlds first invisible wearable technology tracking device created for those at risk of wandering due to Alzheimers, dementia, autism, and traumatic brain injury. MetAlerts subscription-based business model is built around technology innovation with intellectual property protection. The company has international distributors servicing customers across the globe with subscribers in over 40 countries and is a U.S. Military Government contractor. Other customers include public health authorities, municipalities, emergency and law enforcement, private schools, assisted living facilities, NGOs, small business enterprises, senior care homes and consumers. www.MetAlert.com

Social Media:

FB: https://www.facebook.com/metalertinc

IG: https://www.instagram.com/metalert/?hl=en

Twitter: https://twitter.com/metalertinc

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/metalertinc/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUlYP1WQoLdKkDzwhGkx40Q

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements. The terms and phrases expects, would, will, believes, and similar terms and phrases are intended to identify these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on estimates and assumptions made by MetAlert considering its experience and perception of current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors that MetAlert believes are appropriate in the circumstances. Many factors could cause MetAlerts actual results, performance, or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Certain risk factors that may cause actual results to differ are outlined in MetAlerts Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (which may be obtained on the SEC Website). These factors should be considered carefully, and readers should not rely on MetAlerts forward-looking statements. MetAlert has no intention and undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required.

Disclaimer: MetAlert does not warrant or represent that the unauthorized use of materials drawn from this document's content will not infringe the rights of third parties who are not owned or affiliated by MetAlert. Further, MetAlert cannot be held responsible or liable for the unauthorized use of this documents content by third parties unknown to the company.

For general information, investor relations, wholesale licensing, and consumer purchase:

MetAlert, Inc.

Tel: 213.489.3019

Email: info@metalert.com or ir@metalert.com

MetAlert

United Kingdom, London

Nelson Skip Riddle

Tel: +44 7785 364100

Email: nsriddle@metalert.com




It's not a stretch to say that Minetech Resources Berhad's (KLSE:MINETEC) price-to-sales (or "P/S") ratio of 0.6x right now seems quite "middle-of-the-road" for companies in the Metals and Mining industry in Malaysia, where the median P/S ratio is around 0.4x. Although, it's not wise to simply ignore the P/S without explanation as investors may be disregarding a distinct opportunity or a costly mistake.

Check out our latest analysis for Minetech Resources Berhad

How Minetech Resources Berhad Has Been Performing

Revenue has risen firmly for Minetech Resources Berhad recently, which is pleasing to see. One possibility is that the P/S is moderate because investors think this respectable revenue growth might not be enough to outperform the broader industry in the near future. If that doesn't eventuate, then existing shareholders probably aren't too pessimistic about the future direction of the share price.

We don't have analyst forecasts, but you can see how recent trends are setting up the company for the future by checking out our free report on Minetech Resources Berhad's earnings, revenue and cash flow.

How Is Minetech Resources Berhad's Revenue Growth Trending?

In order to justify its P/S ratio, Minetech Resources Berhad would need to produce growth that's similar to the industry.

Taking a look back first, we see that the company managed to grow revenues by a handy 11% last year. The latest three year period has also seen a 22% overall rise in revenue, aided somewhat by its short-term performance. Therefore, it's fair to say the revenue growth recently has been respectable for the company.

In contrast to the company, the rest of the industry is expected to decline by 2.5% over the next year, which puts the company's recent medium-term positive growth rates in a good light for now.

With this in mind, we find it intriguing that Minetech Resources Berhad's P/S matches its industry peers. Apparently some shareholders believe the recent performance is at its limits and have been accepting lower selling prices.

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The Final Word

While the price-to-sales ratio shouldn't be the defining factor in whether you buy a stock or not, it's quite a capable barometer of revenue expectations.

Our examination of Minetech Resources Berhad revealed its growing revenue over the medium-term hasn't helped elevate its P/S above that of the industry, which is surprising given the industry is set to shrink. When we see a history of positive growth in a struggling industry, but only an average P/S, we assume potential risks are what might be placing pressure on the P/S ratio. One major risk is whether its revenue trajectory can keep outperforming under these tough industry conditions. It appears some are indeed anticipating revenue instability, because this relative performance should normally provide a boost to the share price.

Before you settle on your opinion, we've discovered 5 warning signs for Minetech Resources Berhad (3 don't sit too well with us!) that you should be aware of.

Of course, profitable companies with a history of great earnings growth are generally safer bets. So you may wish to see this free collection of other companies that have reasonable P/E ratios and have grown earnings strongly.

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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Companies introduce course on best practices for estimating and paint refinishing at HD Repair Forum

SAN DIEGO, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Mitchell, an Enlyte company and leading technology and information provider for the Property & Casualty (P&C) claims and Collision Repair industries, today announced it is collaborating with Axalta Coating Systems, a leading global coatings company, to introduce a new training program. The program, "Truck Fleet Damage Analysis and Estimating", provides repairers with instruction on how to streamline the appraisal process for collision-damaged medium- and heavy-duty trucks as well as optimize paint profitability.

Mitchell, an Enlyte company (PRNewsfoto/Mitchell International)

Available quarterly through Axalta's Refinish Academy, the first training program is scheduled for June 6 in Concord, N.C. It combines Mitchell's expertise in commercial, passenger and specialty vehicle estimating with Axalta's position as one of the world's largest coatings suppliers to help facility owners, managers, estimators and parts personnel enhance their appraisal skills. The day-long program covers:

Trends impacting commercial trucks and their proper, safe repair

Strategies to enhance estimate and repair planning accuracy and efficiency

Best practices for estimate writing, reporting and documentation

Coating advancements and their impact on profits

"Estimating can be the key to timely, efficient and profitable repairs and there's a growing need in the commercial truck industry for more education on repair planning and writing a precise collision-damage appraisal," said Patrice Marcil, global director of refinish learning and development at Axalta. "Axalta is thrilled to collaborate with Mitchell on this new training program and looks forward to helping repairers improve the estimating process."

"Today's advanced vehicles are adding a new level of complexity to the repair process," said Jack Rozint, senior vice president of repair sales at Mitchell. "Together with Axalta, a pioneer in the coatings space, we can address this challenge by providing commercial truck shops with best practices that are designed to better position these businesses for the delivery of proper, safe and efficient collision repairs."

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Repairers can visit Axalta.us or Axalta.ca, log in or register as a new user to access the "My Axalta" home page, and click the "Axalta Academy" link to register for the course. Both companies will be at HD Repair Forum in Fort Worth, Texas on April 18-19 to discuss the offering.

Mitchell entered the commercial truck collision-damage appraisal market in 2022 with the launch of Mitchell Cloud Estimating TruckMax. The solution gives U.S. and Canadian repairers and insurers the ability to complete estimates on the best-selling medium- and heavy-duty trucks while accessing features including integrated aftermarket parts pricing directly from suppliers, detailed exploded parts diagrams, Mitchell's in-house authored procedure pages, extensive labor data and intuitive paint refinish calculations.

About Mitchell International

Headquartered in San Diego, Calif., Mitchell International, Inc. delivers smart technology solutions and services to the auto insurance, collision repair, disability and workers' compensation markets. Through deep industry expertise, connections throughout the insurance ecosystem and advanced technology such as artificial intelligence and cloud-based solutions, Mitchell enables its customers and clients to succeed in today's ever-changing environment. Each month, Mitchell processes tens of millions of transactions for more than 300 insurance providers, 20,000 collision repair facilities and 70,000 pharmacies. Its comprehensive solution and service portfolio empowers clients to restore lives after a challenging event.

Mitchell, Genex and Coventry have recently aligned their joint industry expertise and advanced technology solutions to form Enlyte, a parent brand with nearly 6,000 associates committed to simplifying and optimizing property, casualty and disability claims processes and services.

For more information, visit the Mitchell website or follow Mitchell on Twitter @MitchellRepair or @MitchellClaims for collision repair and property and casualty updates and perspectives.

Cision

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SOURCE Mitchell International
Sponsored research data presented in a poster presentation at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting 2023

Annamycin demonstrated increased penetration and accumulation in the liver, which correlated with high antitumor activity in HEPA 1-6 hepatocellular carcinoma and CT26 colon cancer liver metastasis models

Ongoing clinical trials evaluating Annamycin for the treatment of STS lung metastases (STS lung mets) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML)

HOUSTON, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Moleculin Biotech, Inc., (Nasdaq: MBRX) ("Moleculin" or the "Company"), a clinical stage pharmaceutical company with a growing pipeline, including Phase 2 clinical programs, for hard-to-treat tumors and viruses, today announced that positive preclinical data regarding the Company's next-generation anthracycline, Annamycin, was presented at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting 2023, taking place April 14-19, 2023, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL. This research was sponsored by the Company.

Moleculin Biotech, Inc. is a clinical stage pharmaceutical company focused on the development of a broad portfolio of oncology drug candidates for the treatment of highly resistant tumors. (PRNewsfoto/Moleculin Biotech, Inc.)

The poster titled, Exploration of Annamycin Organotropism to Target Primary and Metastatic Liver Cancers was presented by Rafal Zielinski, Ph.D., Department of Experimental Therapeutics, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center as part of the Experimental and Molecular Therapeutic Session: "Novel Antitumor Agents, PI3K/AKT Inhibitors, Proteasome Inhibitors, and Topoisomerases." The poster outlined results from the analysis of the pharmacokinetics of two formulations of Annamycin, liposome formulated drug product (L-ANN) and free Annamycin (ANN), in the liver in comparison with doxorubicin (DOX) and to determine its tumoricidal potential in a hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) model in situ and in experimental models of liver metastasis.

"Annamycin has continued to demonstrate in preclinical models promising results in hard-to-treat tumors. We are pleased with the findings from these preclinical models in HCC, the most common type of primary liver cancer that is responsible for more than 12,000 deaths per year in the US. The high antitumor activity seen preclinically with Annamycin is very encouraging and provides validation for expanded studies to assess activity in different tumor liver metastasis models as well as HCC models," commented Walter Klemp, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Moleculin.

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Annamycin is the Company's next-generation anthracycline that has been designed to be non-cardiotoxic (unlike currently prescribed anthracyclines) and has been shown in animal models to accumulate in the lungs at up to 30-fold the level of doxorubicin (a commonly prescribed anthracycline), as well as demonstrating the ability to avoid the multidrug resistance mechanisms that typically limit the efficacy of doxorubicin and other currently prescribed anthracyclines.

The levels of ANN and DOX in plasma and tissue homogenates were assessed using LC/MS. The antitumor efficacy of L-ANN was studied using HEPA 1-6 hepatocellular carcinoma models (subcutaneous, orthotopic, and experimental liver metastatic models) as well as CT26 colon cancer and MIA PaCa-2 pancreatic cancer liver metastasis models.

Data Highlights:

ANN exhibited significantly higher accumulation in the liver parenchyma when compared to DOX (6-fold higher AUC values).

Researchers observed clear inhibition of the subcutaneous tumor growth after systemic (IV) administration of L-ANN.

Increased liver uptake of the drug had a direct effect on activity of the drug in vivo. Remarkable activity of L-ANN was observed in orthotopic models. Significant inhibition of the tumor growth and extension of the survival of L-ANN treated mice vs. vehicle-receiving animals was observed in HEPA 1-6 models (median survival 29.5 vs 50 days (p<0.0001) and 28 vs 59 days (p<0.0001), respectively).

L-ANN treatment resulted in dramatic increase in survival (median survival >407 days) in the CT26 colon cancer experimental metastasis model. In a separate experiment, significant delay in tumor progression was also observed in pancreatic cancer (MIA PaCa-2) liver metastasis model.

Annamycin is currently being evaluated in ongoing clinical trials for the treatment of STS lung metastases and AML. For more information about the ongoing trials, please visit clinicaltrials.gov and reference identifiers NCT04887298 and NCT05319587, respectively. Unless specifically noted otherwise, references to "Annamycin" refer to the liposome formulated form of the drug.

About Annamycin

Annamycin is the Company's next-generation anthracycline that has been shown in animal models to accumulate in the lungs at up to 30-fold the level of doxorubicin. Importantly, Annamycin has also demonstrated a lack of cardiotoxicity in multiple early-stage human clinical trials, including ongoing trials for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and STS lung metastases. For that reason, although additional data will be necessary, the Company believes Annamycin may not face the same usage limitations imposed on doxorubicin, one of the most common currently approved anthracyclines. Annamycin is currently in development for the treatment of AML and STS lung metastases and the Company believes the drug may have the potential to treat additional indications.

About Moleculin Biotech, Inc.

Moleculin Biotech, Inc. is a clinical stage pharmaceutical company with a growing pipeline, including Phase 2 clinical programs, for hard-to-treat tumors and viruses. The Company's lead program, Annamycin is a next-generation anthracycline designed to avoid multidrug resistance mechanisms with little to no cardiotoxicity. Annamycin is currently in development for the treatment of relapsed or refractory acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and soft tissue sarcoma (STS) lung metastases.

Additionally, the Company is developing WP1066, an Immune/Transcription Modulator capable of inhibiting p-STAT3 and other oncogenic transcription factors while also stimulating a natural immune response, targeting brain tumors, pancreatic and other cancers, and WP1220, an analog to WP1066, for the topical treatment of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. Moleculin is also engaged in the development of a portfolio of antimetabolites, including WP1122 for the potential treatment of COVID-19 and other viruses, as well as cancer indications including brain tumors, pancreatic and other cancers.

For more information about the Company, please visit www.moleculin.com and connect on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Forward-Looking Statements

Some of the statements in this release are 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 Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which involve risks and uncertainties. Although Moleculin believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable as of the date made, expectations may prove to have been materially different from the results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Moleculin has attempted to identify forward-looking statements by terminology including 'believes,' 'estimates,' 'anticipates,' 'expects,' 'plans,' 'projects,' 'intends,' 'potential,' 'may,' 'could,' 'might,' 'will,' 'should,' 'approximately' or other words that convey uncertainty of future events or outcomes to identify these forward-looking statements. These statements are only predictions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, including those discussed under Item 1A. "Risk Factors" in our most recently filed Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") and updated from time to time in our Form 10-Q filings and in our other public filings with the SEC. Any forward-looking statements contained in this release speak only as of its date. We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this release to reflect events or circumstances occurring after its date or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

Investor Contact:

JTC Team, LLC

Jenene Thomas

(833) 475-8247

MBRX@jtcir.com

Cision

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SOURCE Moleculin Biotech, Inc.
Bet_Noire / Getty Images/iStockphoto

For Americans struggling with high utility bills, California legislators believe they have an answer. Assembly Bill 205 required the California Public Utilities Commission to create an income-based fee plan for gas and electric customers.

See: 8 Electric Cars You May Regret Buying

Find: How To Build a Financial Plan From Zero

However, since the mandate provided no details on how such a plan might work, the CPUC asked for proposals from investor-owned utilities, including San Diego Gas & Electric.

SDG&E senior vice president Scott Crider told KBPS that the utility has been focused on comprehensive rate reform and welcomes the mandatory fixed-fee to help reduce prices for San Diego residents.

Currently San Diego has some of the highest electric rates in the country, per Energy Sage, with residents paying an average of $218 per month, or 37 cents per kilowatt hour. This fee includes not just the electricity residents use, but electric grid maintenance, renewable energy initiatives, and state-mandated public purpose programs. All costs are rolled into the price of electricity.

Under the new fixed fee system proposed by SDG&E  as well as Southern California Edison (Edison) and Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E)  consumers would pay a flat rate based on their income for grid maintenance and other programs, and then a kilowatt-hour rate for the electricity they use.

The fixed rates for a family of four would be as follows based on their annual income, per Fox 40 and KBPS:

$28k or lower: a fixed monthly fee of $24 in SDG&E territory. Those in Edison and PG&E territories would pay $15 a month, per CBS.

$28k-$69k: a fixed monthly fee of $34 in SDG&E territory, $20 in Edison territory and $30 in PG&E territory.

$69k-$180k: a fixed monthly fee of $73 in SDG&E territory and $51 in both Edison and PG&E territory.

$180k or more: a fixed monthly fee of $128 in SDG&E territory, $85 in Edison territory and $92 in PG&E territory.

Story continues

Under the system, a California family making $180,000 or more would pay close to (or more than) what the average household in New York pays for their whole bill  before they even purchase any electricity. The average electric bill in New York is $116, according to statistics from EIA.gov.

In California, the average electric bill in 2021 (the latest year for which statistics are available) cost $123.

Take Our Poll: Would You Move for a Job That Paid You a $10,000 Signing Bonus?

However, Crider told KPBS that the plan will help reduce the cost of electricity by roughly 42%. The fact is, is that lower-and-middle income customers on average are going to save money.

He added that, ultimately, higher income customers may also see a difference as they invest in clean technology like electric vehicles and electric water heaters.

However, some energy industry experts disagree that the fixed charges will encourage more conservative energy use. In general, high fixed charges discourage people from reducing their energy use whether through energy efficiency, conservation or rooftop solar, Dave Rosenfeld of the Solar Rights Alliance.

With proposals still being considered, its unclear what will happen to California residents utilities bills as the hot summer months approach and air conditioners begin running around the clock.

In the meantime, taking steps to conserve electricity this summer by improving your homes insulation and using ceiling fans can help reduce your electric bills.

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: If More States Propose Flat Fees for Utility Bills, Would It Save Money?
(Bloomberg) -- Elon Musk wants to create a rival to artificial intelligence phenom ChatGPT. In an interview with Tucker Carlson on Monday, Musk confirmed that he has plans to create a third option in the AI race between Microsoft Corp.-backed OpenAI and Alphabet Inc.s Google and DeepMind.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The Tesla Inc. chief and owner of Twitter confirmed he intends to get involved in the AI race sparked by OpenAIs intelligent chatbot. Seeing Microsoft and Google as the two heavyweights leading the pack presently, Musk offered that he would create a third option. He did not volunteer details on the advanced AI system he would seek to create.

In March, Musk incorporated a new artificial intelligence company called X.AI in the state of Nevada, according to state filings. That same month, he also signed an open letter, along with hundreds of other tech luminaries, urging a six-month pause in the development and training of advanced AI models. Musk has been a vocal critic of other AI companies, including OpenAI, which he played a role in founding.

Elon Musk Wants to Pause AI? Its Too Late for That: Parmy Olson

The new AI company could be part of his plans to build an everything app called X. Musk has merged Twitter into a company named X Corp., and in another recent interview urged listeners to stay tuned for more on that front. He also confirmed an earlier report about slashing the valuation of Twitter since his takeover last year.

We just revalued the company at less than half the acquisition price, he told Carlson. Musk took Twitter private in a $44 billion deal and The Information recently said hed offered Twitter employees new equity grants valuing the company at $20 billion.

Story continues

During Mondays interview, Musk expressed concern about the control and influence that Microsoft has over OpenAI, and the startups transition away from being a nonprofit operation.

He also said he was worried that chatbots had become too politically correct, and that his AI company would focus on truth and trying to understand the nature of the universe.

Read more: Musk Incorporates X.AI, Suggesting Plans for OpenAI Rival

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
TORONTO, April 18, 2023 /CNW/ - The Canadian Journalism Foundation (CJF) proudly announces that The Narwhal is the winner of the 2023 CJF-Meta Journalism Project (MJP) Digital News Innovation Award . This $10,000 annual prize recognizes a news organization that powers journalism's future through digital innovation. The jury awarded it to the Victoria, B.C.-based The Narwhal for the independent outlet's successful expansion strategy, which last year included launching an Ontario bureau and a formula for subsequent expansion across different regions.

The Canadian Journalism Foundation Logo (CNW Group/Canadian Journalism Foundation)

Jury members cited the environmental online not-for-profit publication's success at ensuring that its revenue supported its goals, along with the careful planning that went into ensuring that the Ontario expansion would be sustainable as well as The Narwhal's continued commitment to journalistic excellence.

"The Narwhal manages to nail it: strong journalism, an innovative approach and undeniable impact," says jury chair Susan Harada, associate professor of journalism at the School of Journalism and Communication at Carleton University. "It maintains a personality that is fresh and unafraid, delivering journalism from a perspective rooted outside of Canadian mainstream media."

The CJF-MJP Digital News Innovation Award promotes the work of Canadian startups, local and national news outlets, and supports new initiatives and projects. Innovation can come in a wide range of approaches, including new formats for audiences, new storytelling techniques, data-driven storytelling, new digital products produced by the newsroom, community involvement in story development, or partnerships and team approaches to reporting and producing stories.

"In the media space, we often think of innovation as content-focused or editorial-focused. But the revenue piece is one of the most crucial issues the industry must address," says jury member and digital journalist Lisa Yeung. "The Narwhal's project was uniquely revenue-focused among the entries and was creative and strategic in its approach to the question all outlets must address if we want to prioritize innovation: How are we funding this?"

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The Narwhal will be recognized at the CJF Awards ceremony on June 13 at the Royal York Hotel, Toronto. For tickets, tables and sponsorship opportunities, see contact information below or visit the CJF Awards page.

The CJF-MJP Digital News Innovation Award jury members are:

- Susan Harada (chair), associate professor of journalism at Carleton University's School of Journalism and Communication;

- Brett Chang, CEO and co-founder of The Peak;

- Marissa Nelson, senior consultant, Magid, and former CBC news executive; and

- Lisa Yeung, consultant, journalism instructor, Centennial College.

Cision is the exclusive distribution partner of the CJF.



About The Canadian Journalism Foundation

Established in 1990, The Canadian Journalism Foundation promotes, celebrates and facilitates excellence in journalism. The foundation runs a prestigious annual awards and fellowships program featuring an industry gala where news leaders, journalists and corporate Canada gather to celebrate outstanding journalistic achievement and the value of professional journalism. Through monthly J-Talks, a public speakers' series, the CJF facilitates dialogue among journalists, business people, academics and students about the role of the media in Canadian society and the ongoing challenges for media in the digital era. The foundation also fosters opportunities for journalism education, training and research.

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Fortune Business Insights

Companies covered in natural stone and marble market are Aro Granite Industries Ltd. (India), Dimpomar (Portugal), Antolini Luigi & C. S.p.A. (Italy), Dermitzakis Bros S.A. (Greece), Levantina y Asociados de Minerales, S.A. (Spain), MARGRAF (Italy), RANAMAR (Turkey), Polycor Inc. (Canada), Temmer Marble (Turkey), Southland Stone USA, Inc. (U.S.), Xishi Stone Group (China), CUPA Group (Spain), and Others.

Pune, India, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The natural stone and marble market size was valued at USD 48.80 billion in 2021 and industry size is expected to rise from USD 51.76 billion in 2022 to USD 68.06 billion by 2029 at a CAGR of 4.0% during the forecast period. Fortune Business Insights publishes this information in a report titled, "Natural Stone and Marble Market Size, Share and Forecast, 2022-2029". According to the report, the market is expected to rise during the projected period due to increasing demand for natural stones for decorative applications.

Get a Free Sample Research Report:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/request-sample-pdf/natural-stone-and-marble-market-104040

List of Key Players Profiled in the Market Report for Natural Stone and Marble :

Aro Granite Industries Ltd. (India)

Dimpomar (Portugal)

Antolini Luigi & C. S.p.A. (Italy)

Dermitzakis Bros S.A. (Greece)

Levantina y Asociados de Minerales, S.A. (Spain)

MARGRAF (Italy)

RANAMAR (Turkey)

Polycor Inc. (Canada)

Temmer Marble (Turkey)

Southland Stone USA, Inc. (U.S.)

Xishi Stone Group (China)

CUPA Group (Spain)

Competitive Landscape:

Strategic Acquisition Allow Companies to Strengthen their Positions

Key market players focus on creating strategic alliances, acquisitions, collaborations, and partnerships. These strategies allow companies to expand their business reach and increase productivity and profitability. Also, new product development and innovation ideas will allow key players to enhance their product portfolio.

Report Scope & Segmentation:

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2022-2029 Forecast CAGR 4.0% 2029 Value Projection USD 68.06 billion Market Size in 2022 USD 51.76 billion Historical Data 2017-2019 No. of Pages 215 Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Company Profiles, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors and Latest Trends Segments Covered By Products Type

By Application Regions Covered North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Latin America

Middle East and Africa Natural Stone and Marble Market Growth Drivers Building & Construction Segment to Dominate Market Due to Wider Applications Asia Pacific Dominates the Market Share Due to Infrastructural Development

Browse Detailed Summary of Research Report with TOC:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/natural-stone-and-marble-market-104040

Story continues

Segments:

Granite Segment to Lead Market Due to Rising Demand

Based on product type, the market of natural stone and marble is segregated into granite, limestone, marble, sandstone, slate, and others. The granite segment is expected to lead the market during the forecast period due to its increasing demand in Asian countries. Also, the quality and durability parameters bolster the segment growth.

Building & Construction Segment to Dominate Market Due to Wider Applications

On the basis of application, the market is categorized into building & construction, monumental, and others. The building and construction segment is anticipated to witness significant growth during the forecast period due to increasing construction activities in the commercial, residential, and industrial sectors.

Geographically, the market share is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa.

Report Coverage:

The report highlights complete information regarding market growth and development in recent years. Also, drivers and restraints affecting market growth during the forecast period are given further in this report. Furthermore, the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on market expansion is discussed along with the key market players' business development strategies. Regional market insights and a list of prominent market players are highlighted further in this report.

Key Industry Development:

February 2022: Cupa Group, through Burton Roofing, announced the acquisition of 100% of Discount Roofing, a firm specializing in the distribution of roofing products. The company strengthened its presence in the British market and maintained its leadership position in the slate industry.

Drivers & Restraints:

Rising Demand for Natural Stones to Propel Market Growth

The market is anticipated to grow significantly during the forecast period due to increasing demand from the construction industry. Also, the consumers are adopting natural stones to create decorative pieces for residential and commercial sectors. The rapid growth in population and increased earning capacity of the consumers are anticipated to drive the market in the coming years.

However, increasing the adoption of artificial stones may hamper the market growth during the projected period.

Regional Insights:

Asia Pacific Dominates the Market Share Due to Infrastructural Development

Due to increasing construction activities, Asia Pacific holds the highest global natural stone and marble market share during the forecast period. Also, developing infrastructure in emerging countries is expected to fuel the market growth during the projected period. The regional market stood at USD 28.15 billion in 2021.

Europe is expected to grow at a fast pace during the forecast period, owing to increasing renovation activities. Also, strict environmental regulations on using natural building materials, including natural stone and marble are expected to drive the market.

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https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/ask-for-customization/natural-stone-and-marble-market-104040

COVID-19 Impact:

Supply Chain Disruptions Amid Pandemic to Hinder Market Growth

The COVID-19 pandemic restricted the natural stone and marble market growth due to stringent restrictions imposed by governments. Also, the import/export policies were revised in many countries, which disrupted the supply chain and affected the supplies of raw materials and finished goods. Furthermore, sudden lockdown and social distancing norms restricted employees to work at 50% capacity and affected the manufacturing and production units.

Detailed 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 Industry Trends Key Industry Developments Insights on Regulatory Scenario PORTERs Five Forces Analysis

Covid-19 Impact Analysis Supply Chain Challenges Steps taken by companies to overcome the impact Opportunities due to COVID-19 outbreak

Global Natural Stone and Marble Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 20182029 Key Findings / Summary Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Product Type (Value & Volume) Granite Limestone Marble Sandstone Slate Others Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Application (Value & Volume) Building & Construction Monumental Others Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Region (Value & Volume) North America Europe Asia Pacific Latin America Middle East & Africa



TOC Continued!

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https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/speak-to-analyst/natural-stone-and-marble-market-104040

Read Related Insights:

Nitric Acid Market to Reach USD 29.33 Billion by 2029

Food Packaging Market to be Worth USD 478.18 Billion by 2028

Thin Film Material Market to Reach USD 17.46 Billion by 2029

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Electrify Expo

Electrify Expo Showoff

Electrify Expo Showoff driven by Yokohama

The next generation of auto enthusiasts will show off their unique, customized EVs as part of the largest custom EV exhibition in the US



Electrify Showoff debuts in Long Beach and then expands to the remaining six stops on the Electrify Expo tour

Showoff is sold out of automotive aftermarket space for its opening weekend in Long Beach, May 19-21

Yokohama Tire comes aboard as Presenting Sponsor of Electrify Showoff

AUSTIN, Texas, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Electrify Expo , North Americas largest electric vehicle (EV) festival, today announced the expansion of Electrify Showoff to all seven cities on the 2023 tour. As the epicenter of EV personalization, Showoff is the breeding ground for the next generation of car culture and customization trends. It features the worlds most radical customized EVs, as well as the automotive aftermarket brands that are shaping the future of the automotive aftermarket industry. Electrify Showoff is the largest gathering of customized electric vehicles and the brands that make up the movement. From four wheels to two, Showoff will highlight the customization culture of the next generation of consumers interested in EV personalization.

There is a car culture resurgence emerging from a new breed of auto enthusiasts, says BJ Birtwell, founder and executive producer of Electrify Expo. Electrify Showoff is the home for EV builders, tuners, and brands like Yokohama and others who are rightly embracing this surging movement and preparing their businesses for the inevitable shift to all things electric.

Were thrilled to be the presenting sponsor of Electrify Showoff, said Andrew Briggs, Yokohama Tires VP of marketing and product management. Yokohama has held a place in the enthusiast aftermarket for a long time, so its great to see a new wave of enthusiasts creating a new EV car culture before our eyes. We cant wait to see what this newly imagined future might hold, and Showoff is going to be THE place to see it!

Story continues

Showoff is an exciting part of the larger Electrify Expo weekends and is positioned as the heartbeat of EV Customization culture. It will feature the worlds most radical customized EVs (including electric cars, electric trucks, e-bikes + more) and influence overall personalization trends throughout the industry.

Over 20 show car categories will be judged including a Best of Show recognition. Other categories include best performance, best audio, best paint, and more. Official category sponsors include Meguiars, STEK USA, Alloy Gator, Shopmonkey, plus dozens of other exhibiting aftermarket brands specializing in EV personalization.

Automotive Aftermarket brands and show car owners are encouraged to participate. Interested brands and individuals can learn more at https://www.electrifyexpo.com/showoff#Form .

Media interested in attending may request credentials by emailing ee@skyya.com .

About Electrify Expo

Electrify Expo is North America's largest outdoor electric vehicle (EV) festival showcasing the latest technology and products in electrification including startup and legacy EVs, electric motorcycles, bikes, scooters, skateboards, boats, surfboards and more. The festival addresses one of the most challenging barriers to mass adoption of electric vehicles - first hand experience with the product - with meaningful demonstrations and test rides. Top brands from around the world exhibit and attend Electrify Expos events to meet consumers at all stages on their path to electrification. 2023 events will take place in Long Beach and San Francisco, Calif., Washington DC, New York, Seattle, Miami, and Austin, Texas. To stay up to date on the latest news and announcements from Electrify Expo, visit www.electrifyexpo.com and follow on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram .

Media Contact

Skyya PR

ee@skyya.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b59e97be-4dab-4452-9fe4-0932b487b8a6




Nine additional US states joined an antitrust lawsuit against Google (GOOG, GOOGL) that accuses the company of illegally monopolizing the online ad tech market and seeks to break up the tech giants stronghold.

The US Department of Justice and eight states first brought the civil lawsuit in January. On Monday, the agency announced that attorneys general for Arizona, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Washington, and West Virginia had joined the litigation. Virginia, California, Colorado, Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, and Tennessee joined the DOJ in the original filing.

We look forward to litigating this important case alongside our state law enforcement partners to end Googles long-running monopoly in digital advertising technology markets, Doha Mekki, principal deputy assistant attorney general for the Justice Departments antitrust division, said in a statement.

Google logo is seen through broken glass in this illustration taken, January 25, 2023. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration

The Justice Department and attorneys general allege that Google's suite of online ad tech tools  technology to buy, sell and serve ads online  prevents competitors from entering the market and blocks publishers from monetizing their own content. The department further claims that Google should be required to divest a host of entities that allow it to carry out the allegedly offending behavior.

The DOJ wants Google to divest, at the least, its Google Ad Manager suite, including both Googles publisher ad server, DFP, and Google's ad exchange, AdX.

"Googles anticompetitive behavior has raised barriers to entry to artificially high levels, forced key competitors to abandon the market for ad tech tools, dissuaded potential competitors from joining the market, and left Googles few remaining competitors marginalized and unfairly disadvantaged," the complaint states.

The suit goes on to allege that Google is using its outsized market share to take supra-competitive profits for itself.

U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland announces that the U.S. Justice Department has filed an antitrust lawsuit against Alphabet's Google on January 24, 2023. REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque

This lawsuit attempts to pick winners and losers in the highly competitive advertising technology sector," Dan Taylor, Google's vice president of global ads told Yahoo Finance. "It largely duplicates an unfounded lawsuit by the Texas Attorney General, much of which was dismissed by a federal court." Taylor said the arguments advanced in the suits by the DOJ and the state attorneys general would slow innovation, raise advertising fees, and make it harder for thousands of small businesses and publishers to grow.

Story continues

The January lawsuit came more than two years after the Justice Department and a group of state attorneys general joined in a separate antitrust suit alleging that Google's search and search advertising businesses violate U.S. antitrust laws.

Googles digital advertising businesses have become antitrust targets due to their unrivaled size and volume. The company holds a commanding lead in the $278.6 billion online ad revenue space, of which Google's revenues in 2022 totaled approximately $224.5 billion.

The company controls some of the most important links in the online advertising chain  specifically its DoubleClick platform, a premier tool for online publishers, helping them create, manage, and track online marketing campaigns.

In the first three quarters of 2022, Google's ad tech division generated $24.3 billion in sales. As for Googles share of the US publisher ad server market, the Justice Department alleges that Google's market share has remained above 90% for "many years."

Big target

Google has for years also faced scrutiny from domestic and overseas lawmakers and regulators concerning its dominance across online and mobile markets.

In the U.S., the firm has faced investigations by the DOJ, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission, and state attorneys general over suspicions that the companys search and digital advertising businesses operate as illegal monopolies.

In 2021, dozens of attorneys general sued the company, alleging that it was operating illegal monopolies in the market for Android app distribution by imposing technical barriers that prevent third parties from distributing apps outside the Play Store.

Over a decade ago, the company was fined roughly $10 billion (8.6 billion euros) by the European Commission, the European Unions antitrust watchdog. Those fines resulted from three separate antitrust violations alleged by the Commission.

In 2017, the company was hit by the Commission for allegedly abusing its market dominance in search, and again in 2018 for allegedly abusing its market power in the mobile space by preloading its own apps on new Android phones. And in 2019, the company was again fined for limiting its rivals from working with companies that already had deals with Googles AdSense platform.

Prior to the lawsuit filed in January, Alphabet reportedly sought to quell the DOJ's antitrust concerns by offering to split up its ad auction and ad placement businesses. That offer, according to The Wall Street Journal, was to maintain the would-be separate entities under the company's larger, parent company, Alphabet.

Alexis Keenan is a legal reporter for Yahoo Finance. Follow Alexis on Twitter @alexiskweed.

Click here for the latest technology business news, reviews, and useful articles on tech and gadgets

Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance
Automotive industry innovator will improve operational efficiency and customer experience by quickly navigating supply chain disruptions

TOKYO, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- project44 , the connective tissue of the global supply chain, today announced Nissan Motor Company ("Nissan") has partnered with project44 to enhance its resilient global logistics network. As one of the world's leading automotive manufacturers, Nissan will use the Movement by project44 platform to gain end-to-end supply chain visibility, improving operational efficiency by quickly mitigating disruptions.

project44 logo (PRNewsfoto/project44)

Tokyo and Yokohama have been experiencing a nearly 50% increase in export dwell time and a nearly 30% increase in import dwell time per project44's Supply Chain Advisory Report. These export dwell conditions are the reason automotive manufacturers like Nissan are seeking to build a more resilient global logistics network. project44's real-time, multimodal visibility into current shipment location, as well as deep insights for accurate ETAs (Estimated Time of Arrival) and carrier performance, will enable Nissan to provide customers and internal stakeholders more transparency into parts logistics and finished cars logistics (RORO).

Mr. Masato Yokoyama, Deputy General Manager of Supply Chain Strategy and Projects Department at Nissan said "Plan and mitigate is key for resilient supply chain. Covid-19 Pandemic realized us how unprepared we are and our supply chain network is volatile. Our goal for resilient supply chains is to be proactive, rather than being reactive in addressing these vulnerabilities. A resilient supply chain allows us to adapt to global events proactively and have the capability to adjust schedules to accommodate customer requirements. project44's Movement platform will allow us not only such adjustments made to the supply chains for better control through their end-to-end transportation visibility but also measurably showing our global approach to reduce Scope 3 emissions."

Story continues

"Supply chain disruptions are a persistent and growing business challenge, presenting a significant opportunity for enterprises to innovate and overcome the complexities of their logistics operations," said Renaud Houri, project44's EVP International. "project44's end-to-end supply chain visibility platform will help Nissan gain real-time data and insights to enable faster decision making, and improve its agility to execute on strategic imperatives."

About project44

project44 is on a mission to make supply chains work. As the supply chain connective tissue, project44 operates the world's most trusted end-to-end visibility platform that tracks more than 1 billion unique shipments annually for over 1,200 of the world's leading brands, including top companies in manufacturing, automotive, retail, life sciences, food & beverage, and oil, chemical & gas. Using project44, shippers and carriers across the globe drive greater predictability, resiliency and sustainability.

The undisputed leader in the market, project44 was named the Leader in the Gartner Magic Quadrant, #1 in FreightWaves FreightTech 2023, a seven-time leader in customer satisfaction on G2's Supply Chain Visibility Grid, one of SupplyChainBrain's 100 Great Supply Chain Partners of 2022, and the Customer's Choice in Gartner Peer Insights Voice of the Customer report. project44 is headquartered in Chicago with a diverse team spanning 23 global offices including Austin, Amsterdam, Krakow, Paris, Sao Paulo, Shanghai and Tokyo. Learn more at project44.com.

Media Contact

Kazumi Mihashi

Director, Marketing APAC at project44

kmihashi@project44.com

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STOCKHOLM(Reuters) - Truck-maker Scania and battery producer Northvolt on Tuesday said they had developed an electric battery with a lifetime equivalent to that of a truck.

The Swedish companies said the lithium-ion cell in tests had demonstrated a lifetime capacity to power trucks for 1.5 million kilometres (930,000 miles)  the same as a Scania truck's expected duration.

"The future of heavy transport is electric, and to enable the shift and to continue delivering on our brand promise towards customers to be premium, Scania needs top-performing battery cells for our electric trucks," Scania CEO Christian Levin said in a statement.

The battery cells are being produced at the Northvolt Ett gigafactory in northern and the estimated carbon footprint of the cell at full serial production is approximately one third that of a comparative industry reference, the companies said.

(Reporting by Johan Ahlander, editing by Terje Solsvik)
Tech leaders design unified solution for healthcare-specific detection and response of cyber threats

BURLINGTON, Mass., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Tausight, healthcare's first AI-powered protected health information (PHI) security company, today announced a new partnership with Novelle IntelliSolve, the managed security service provider (MSSP) providing cyber preparedness and response solutions for healthcare and the life sciences. Together, the new partners have designed a unified solution that gives healthcare organizations a single tool to identify, detect, and respond to ePHI vulnerabilities.

The First Data Security Posture Management Platform Built for Healthcare (PRNewsfoto/Tausight)

"We're proud to partner with Novelle IntelliSolve to produce a joint solution that gives healthcare organizations immediate visibility and insight into patient data so they can detect, track, and respond to PHI activity," said David Ting, Founder and Chief Technology Officer at Tausight. "Together, we're providing a unified ePHI-DR solution as a healthcare-specific detection and response tool to combat cyber threats."

The partnership arose from a recognition that healthcare providers face unique identity theft and ePHI security challenges. Pediatric populations, for example, require an extended retention-of-data timeline, as well as presenting extremely sensitive identities that warrant extra cyber protection. Such healthcare-specific requirements necessitated a solution that offered robust capabilities for both PHI detection and response.

"We're excited to bring our Tausight partnership to our clients and leverage our deep operational experience in the healthcare vertical to deliver a single strategy and solution for real-time PHI surveillance and risk management," said Maireni Salas, President and Chief Operating Officer of Novelle IntelliSolve.

"This joint solution lets healthcare CIOs, CISOs, and compliance/privacy officers identify where all their PHI lives, determine if it has adequate protections in place, and respond accordingly," said Ting. "The Tausight-Novelle partnership will help healthcare organizations minimize the risk of unauthorized access and loss of PHI."

Story continues

Learn more about the Tausight-Novelle partnership at HIMSS 2023 (Cybersecurity Command Center Kiosk #4903-33), taking place April 17-21 in Chicago, IL.

About Tausight

Tausight is healthcare's first AI-powered ePHI security company with a vision of reducing healthcare-specific cybersecurity incidents by leveraging the power of AI to detect and manage PHI risk in today's decentralized healthcare ecosystems. Founded in 2018 by healthcare security pioneer David Ting and led by healthcare visionary Frank Nydam, Tausight is backed by top-tier healthcare investors Polaris Partners , Flare Capital Partners , and .406 Ventures , and is based in Boston, Massachusetts. For more information, visit: www.tausight.com and follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter ( @Tausight ).

About Novelle IntelliSolve

IntelliSolve is a next-generation MSSP for healthcare and the life sciences, offering AI-driven cloud solutions to secure and manage healthcare technology ecosystems. Our curated cybersecurity stacks are designed by seasoned experts with over 25 years of experience in all areas of healthcare management. For more information, visit www.novelleintellisolve.com. Novelle IntelliSolve is the managed security and compliance subsidiary of Novelle Health Partners, LLC, a privately owned entity focused on healthcare data and analytics, population health, and practice management.

CONTACT: Jay Staunton, jay@skibereen.com, 781-790-6023

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(Bloomberg) -- Shares of Nuvei Corp. slipped after short seller Spruce Point Capital Management published a negative report, on the heels of Hollywood actor Ryan Reynolds announcement that hes an investor in the Canadian payments firm.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Nuvei tumbled about 6% early Tuesday but pared losses to trade down 2% at $41.60 as of 2:26 p.m. New York time.

Its the second time in two years that Spruce Point has gone after the Montreal-based company, which offers payment services for a number of sectors including the gaming and crypto industries.

Spruce Point said its short the stock, citing the potential for a 35% to 50% drop in value. Its report questioned Nuveis financial transparency, its links with failed crypto platform FTX and its recent $1.3 billion acquisition of Atlanta-based Paya Holdings Inc. Spruce Point said its analysis shows Paya was losing market share and revenue growth was slowing.

We believe Nuveis underlying business is under pressure for a number of reasons, Ben Axler, Spruce Points founder and chief investment officer, said on BNN Bloomberg Television.

Reynolds said Monday hes taking taking a stake in Nuvei, alongside a marketing pitch he did for the company in several online videos.

Fintech is another zag, really. I like unusual moves, Reynolds said of his investment during an interview on Bloomberg Television on Tuesday. Its a sector that a lot of people have run away from. But payments are pretty ubiquitous, payments are pretty critical, and thats something I like about that.

Read more: T-Mobile Buys Ryan Reynoldss Mint Mobile for $1.35 Billion

Story continues

No financial terms were disclosed. Spruce Points Axler asked whether any money exchanged hands or if Reynolds was instead given restricted stock in return for his work. On Bloomberg Television, Nuvei Chief Executive Officer Philip Fayer declined to give any details of the arrangement with Reynolds. But he said the actor can change the narrative on something that is actually quite technical and boring, and make it fun and humorous.

Keefe Bruyette & Woods analyst Sanjay Sakhrani said the Spruce Point report did not carry much weight.

Like its last report, we believe the short seller is grasping for irregularities without citing material and provable issues, Sakhrani said in a note to investors. While we respect the investors investigative approach, its hard for us to connect all the dots and get on board that anything is actually wrong with the company.

(Updates with comments from Bloomberg Television interview)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Odyssey

Lisbon, Portugal, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- On the 10th of April, Gotbit Hedge Fund announced the launch of a new accelerator program called Odyssey. The two-month initiative, which is designed to boost any project looking to build solutions for DeFi and Web3 infrastructure, will focus on delivering comprehensive business education individually for each participating startup.









Odyssey is seeking to accelerate early-stage (seed or private) blockchain technology companies as well as private entities raising capital in their token or equity sales. In the first phase, the number of competitive projects surpassed 200 and only the cohort of 9 Web3s rising stars were accepted to the program: Arcana, DeFiHelper, Farm xyz, Firepot Finance, Interest Protocol, Kinetex Network, Movement, Stable Battle, and Trait Swap. The application process for the second batch of candidates is scheduled to open in about a month.

One of the Odysseys eligibility criteria is for startups to show the MVP ready for investors. On top of that, the project should grow to over $7 million in market capitalization and have a complete team of fully qualified professionals  only the absence of marketing specialists is tolerated.

Gotbit CEO Alex Andryunin said: Eligible entrepreneurs not only receive the funding they need. They also get Gotbits wealth of expertise, extensive network of partner venture capitalists and investors, as well as personal assistance on every aspect of running a sustainable Web3 business including conceptualization, development, market making, legal, and marketing.

Andryunin added that upon completion of the Odyssey accelerator program, all projects would have their products ready to enter the global market with already raised venture capital funding. He mentioned that among the VC firms that have by now invested in their mentees were Algorand Foundation, Borderless Capital, Cogitent Ventures, Coinbase Ventures, Jump Crypto, and Polygon Ventures.

Story continues

Besides, Gotbit regularly holds the event called Demo Days where the most talented entrepreneurs and developers pitch their ideas to representatives of the leading crypto investment funds. The next time Demo Days is set to take place is in two months.

Led by crypto veterans and early adopters  together with Andryunin, co-founder of Gotbit Mark Strelchik, ventures lead Peter Derlugov, and head of consulting Pavel (0xsmoky) are involved  Odyssey also provides participating projects with mentoring. Apart from the individual approach to consultancy ensured by the accelerator team of researchers, analysts, and personal managers, Web3 developer teams are offered a range of lectures by the industrys big names. Among them are top-level businessmen and executives from famous Web3-centric companies like Avalaunch, dYdX, GMX, Nomiks, and Powerpool.

About Odyssey

The Odyssey acceleration program was established by Gotbit Hedge Fund with the aim of empowering DeFi and Web3 infrastructure startups and private companies in early stage funding. The initiative entails individual consultancy and business education dedicated to running a sustainable company in the decentralized space. Competitive projects are provided with mentoring, funding and networking activities, as well as Gotbits expertise and technical support.

CONTACT: RAGHAV SAWHNEY Outreach Consultant Gotbit Hedge Fund partners-at-gotbit.io




BOSTON, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- oneZero, a global leader in multi-asset enterprise trading technology solutions, today announced that it had secured the top spot for both the "Best FX Technology Provider" and "Best FX Aggregator" categories in the FX Markets Asia 2023 Awards.

Best FX Technology Provider

These awards recognise the best banks, dealers, brokers and currency managers in the Asia-Pacific region. For this year's awards an expert panel of judges reviewed entries across 34 categories looking for firms that had developed unique and innovative ways to respond to industry needs.

"Winning these awards is a huge honor for us, and we are grateful to all of our clients and partners who continue to support us. We continue to make significant investments in our Asia Pacific presence and deliver the best possible solutions to our clients," commented Alex Neo, Executive Vice President at oneZero.

Alex Neo continued: "We listen to our clients, and work hard to stay at the forefront of innovation to create cutting-edge solutions that allow every aspect of pricing, risk management and execution to be configurable and controlled by our clients. We understand that these awards are not just a pat on the back, but motivation for us to keep pushing the envelope forward."

Last Month, oneZero was named a Best Place to Work , and in January it was announced that Stephen Totten had been appointed as Director of Quantitative Analysis and Julian Gay as Director of Institutional Sales, EMEA . In December 2022, oneZero announced that Cboe FX and State Street had joined its EcoSystem, and in September, it was reported that Invast Global selected oneZero as their core technology provider for their Multi-asset Prime Services business.

About oneZero

oneZero Financial Systems has been a leading innovator in multi-asset class enterprise trading technology for over a decade. Its powerful software encompasses the Hub, EcoSystem and Data Source - three components that separately solve specific organizational challenges and together provide a complete solution for trading technology, distribution and analytics. Through reliable connectivity, technology, infrastructure and market access, oneZero empowers financial institutions and brokers to compete effectively in the global financial markets through a globally compliant, liquidity-neutral solution. oneZero is certified to the standards of ISO 27001 information security management systems, and has development and operations centers in Asia, Australia, Europe and North America.

Story continues

For more information, please contact:

Talia Geberovich

Head of Marketing and Communications

tgeberovich@onezero.com

Best FX Aggregator

(PRNewsfoto/oneZero Financial Systems)

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SOURCE oneZero Financial Systems
Independent hospital network embraces digital transformation in revenue cycle management to support better outcomes across its rural community hospitals

ALPHARETTA, Ga., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- FinThrive, Inc., a healthcare revenue management software-as-a-service (SaaS) provider, and Pennsylvania Mountains Healthcare Alliance (PMHA), a joint network of independent community hospitals serving Western and Central Pennsylvania, today announced the expansion of their partnership to deploy FinThrive's integrated Revenue Management platform at four of the 13 hospitals in PMHA's network.

nThrive logo

The decision to move to a holistic Revenue Management platform puts PMHA at the forefront of a larger trend wherein health systems are increasing digital transformation initiatives focused on healthcare revenue management and patient engagement systems. This technology and process investment will allow PMHA to work with a single vendor on a set of strategic initiatives aimed at increasing revenue and reducing costs - a key priority to ensuring their community hospitals can achieve their missions.

PMHA's decision to implement a comprehensive platform supports its desire to adopt automated workflows to complete key revenue management tasks from pre-service financial clearance through charging and billing, and ultimately payment - freeing up staff to provide quality care to its patients.

"Being able to offer the comprehensive revenue management solution to our community hospitals will be pivotal to ensuring the health systems we support remain independent with the ability to serve the people of rural Pennsylvania," said Nicole Clawson, Vice President of Finance and Revenue Cycle for Pennsylvania Mountains Healthcare Alliance. "We look forward to continuing to work with our long-standing partner, FinThrive, to safeguard the financial future of our hospitals."

An integrated revenue management platform offers an opportunity for health systems to implement multiple solutions without the need for additional labor resources  resulting in critical cost savings and resource efficiencies for community hospitals struggling with staffing issues.

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"At FinThrive we like to establish meaningful and lasting relationships with our customers, as partners in their pursuit of positive outcomes," said Hemant Goel, President and CEO of FinThrive. "We are proud to support the mission of PMHA and help them break the cycle of inefficiency in their revenue cycle. We applaud their progressive approach and look forward to providing a revenue management foundation that will simplify and empower their hospitals' revenue efforts, allowing clinical staff to focus on providing quality care to the communities they serve."

A recent HIMSS analytics survey pointed out that 69% of hospitals have multiple vendors in their revenue cycle  and the gaps between these systems can result in claims denials, delays, and general inefficiencies. PMHA's shift from revenue cycle management to integrated revenue management represents a bold step to be more efficient and enhance stewardship of the community healthcare dollar. Innovative organizations that are rethinking revenue management to support their success will see increased financial yield, reduced third party costs, and improved staff satisfaction. To break the cycle of inefficiency, organizations like PMHA must rethink revenue management and look at a platform that delivers for their team and their patients.

About Pennsylvania Mountains Healthcare Alliance

Pennsylvania Mountains Healthcare Alliance (PMHA) is a collaborative network of independent community hospitals. Developed by healthcare innovators in Western and Central Pennsylvania, PMHA has evolved over 25 years into a closely knit group of hospitals committed to maintaining their independence by working together. PMHA hospitals have maximized revenue and minimized cost, becoming efficiently operating providers and contributors to their respective communities. The PMHA mission is to enhance the ability of its member hospitals to provide patient-centered community-based care and to maintain their status as independent community hospitals.

About FinThrive

FinThrive helps healthcare organizations increase revenue, reduce costs, expand cash collections, and ensure regulatory compliance across the entire revenue cycle continuum. Providing one of healthcare's most comprehensive revenue cycle management SaaS platforms, FinThrive's holistic approach to revenue management offers patient access, charge integrity, claims management, contract management, machine learning & robotic process automation, data & analytics, and education solutions. More than 3,200 healthcare providers are using FinThrive today. For more information, visit www.FinThrive.com.

Media Contact:

Audra Murphy

VP, Strategic Communications, FinThrive

(717) 476-4864

amurphy@finthrive.com

Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/pennsylvania-mountains-healthcare-alliance-adopts-finthrives-revenue-management-platform-301800551.html

SOURCE FinThrive
Future Market Insights Global and Consulting Pvt. Ltd.

According to FMI, Permeates Sales in the United States are expected to capture a 4.7% CAGR over the assessment period, with the Market Accounting for 37.0% of the Global Market Share in 2023. China is predicted to Gain an edge over the Market, with sales increasing at a 6.7% CAGR

NEWARK, Del, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global permeate market is projected to be worth US$ 885.3 million by 2023 and is expected to grow to US$ 1,705.9 million by 2033 at a CAGR of 6.8%.



Permeate has potential uses as a nutrient-rich ingredient in animal feed, biodegradable plastics, and renewable energy sources. However, the market faces challenges such as increased regulation and competition from other sweeteners.

The whey permeate segment is expected to acquire 63% of the market share due to its cost-effectiveness, flavor-enhancing abilities, and nutritional properties.

For insights on global, regional, and country-level parameters with growth opportunities from 2023 to 2033 - Download a sample report@ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-900

Milk permeate is projected to gain a 37% market share by 2033 due to its functional qualities that can enhance the texture and stability of food and beverage products.

The animal feed segment is expected to account for almost 75% of the total market share in 2022 due to the palatability and taste-enhancing properties of permeate in animal feed.

The United States is expected to account for 37% of the global market share in 2023 due to increased consumer awareness of protein requirements and the presence of a thriving food and beverage sector.

China is projected to gain an edge over the market due to increased production and consumption of meat and dairy products, while Germany is expected to capture 7% of the market share in 2033 due to its position as one of Europe's top dairy producers. Overall, permeate is an attractive ingredient for food and beverage manufacturers due to its affordability, functional properties, and sustainability.

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Competitive Landscape

Leading players in the worldwide permeate market are spending on research and development to broaden their product portfolios and cater to a larger consumer pool. Aside from that, firms are investing in mergers, acquisitions, and collaborations in order to get a competitive advantage in the industry.

Use promo code ->> FMITODAY to get flat 20% discount

Latest Developments/Key Companies Profile

Arla Foods components: A leading global provider of whey protein components, this Danish company has been investing substantially in permeate as a value-added ingredient for the food sector.

Arla introduced a new line of high-quality permeate powders under the Nutrilac brand in 2019. These powders are made from fresh, sweet whey and have a neutral flavor, making them excellent for a variety of applications such as bakery, dairy, and confectionery items.

Milk Specialties Global: This US-based company is a prominent manufacturer of high-quality dairy ingredients and has recently focused on increasing its permeate business. In 2019, Milk Specialties Global announced the introduction of a new line of permeate products for use in animal feed and pet food applications.

Lactalis Ingredients, based in France, will debut a new whey drying tower at its Verdun facility in December 2021. The new plant has a 30,000-tonne production capacity, allowing the company to grow into new markets.

Valio: This Finnish dairy company is a top producer of lactose-free dairy products and has been focusing on developing new food-industry applications for permeate.

Valio announced the release of a new line of permeate powders in 2020, which are intended to be used as a natural and sustainable sweetener in food and beverage goods. In addition, the company has been developing new processing technologies to increase the quality and usefulness of its permeate products.

Let us know about your challenges and our trusted advisors will connect with you@ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/ask-question/rep-gb-900

Key Segments Covered in the Market Report

Product Type:

Whey Permeate

Milk Permeate

Applications:

Food and Beverage Industry Dairy Products Bakery Products Soup and Sauces Meat Products Beverages

Animal Feed Industry



By Region

North America

Latin America

Western Europe

Eastern Europe

Asia Pacific Excluding Japan (APEJ)

Japan

The Middle East & Africa (MEA)





Browse the Full Report for in-depth Information@ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/permeate-market

Table of Content

1. Executive Summary | Permeate Market

1.1. Global Market Outlook

1.2. Demand-side Trends

1.3. Supply-side Trends

1.4. Technology Roadmap Analysis

1.5. Analysis and Recommendations

2. Market Overview

2.1. Market Coverage / Taxonomy

2.2. Market Definition / Scope / Limitations

3. Market Background

3.1. Market Dynamics

3.1.1. Drivers

3.1.2. Restraints

3.1.3. Opportunity

3.1.4. Trends

4. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast, 2023 to 2033

4.1. Historical Market Size Value (US$ Million) & Volume (MT) Analysis, 2018 to 2022

4.2. Current and Future Market Size Value (US$ Million) & Volume (MT) Projections, 2023 to 2033

4.2.1. Y-o-Y Growth Trend Analysis

4.2.2. Absolute $ Opportunity Analysis

5. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Product Type

5.1. Introduction / Key Findings

5.2. Historical Market Size Value (US$ Million) & Volume (MT) Analysis By Product Type, 2018 to 2022

5.3. Current and Future Market Size Value (US$ Million) & Volume (MT) Analysis and Forecast By Product Type, 2023 to 2033

Explore FMIs Extensive Coverage on Food & Beverage Domain:

Dairy Products Market Size: The net worth of the market share of dairy products is predicted to grow from US$ 529.05 billion in 2023 to over US$ 845.50 billion by 2033. The market is expected to register a CAGR of 4.8% from 2023 to 2033.

Dairy Processing Equipment Market Share: The global dairy processing equipment market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.4% during the forecast period (2022 to 2032).

Dairy Alternatives Market Demand: The dairy alternatives market is anticipated to be valued at US$ 21.2 billion in 2023. It is predicted to reach a value of US$ 47.1 billion in 2033, growing at an estimated 8.3% CAGR from 2023 to 2033.

Dairy Blends Market Growth: The dairy blends market is anticipated to thrive at a steady CAGR of 7.7% during the forecast period. The market holds a share of US$ 2.4 Million in 2023 while expecting revenue of US$ 5.1 Billion by 2033.

Dairy Concentrate Market Value: The global dairy concentrate market is expected to be valued at US$ 20 billion in 2023 and is likely to reach a valuation of US$ 42.2 billion by 2033

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.

Contact Us:

Future Market Insights Inc.

Christiana Corporate, 200 Continental Drive,

Suite 401, Newark, Delaware - 19713, USA

T: +1-845-579-5705

For Sales Enquiries: sales@futuremarketinsights.com

LinkedIn| Twitter| Blogs | YouTube

Future Market Insights accoladed by The 2023 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/blogs/asia-pacific-stevie-awards-2023




Perseus Mining Limited

Perseus Minings strong operating performance continues with 130,275oz gold produced at AISC of US$971/oz

Perth, April 19, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MARCH 2023 QUARTER REPORT

Perseus Minings strong operating performance continues with 130,275oz gold produced at AISC of US$971/oz

PERTH, Western Australia/ April 19, 2023/Perseus Mining Limited (Perseus or the Company) (TSX & ASX: PRU) reports on its activities for the three months period ended March 31, 2023 (the Quarter).

Key Operating highlights for the March 2023 quarter and the nine months ending 31 March 2023 include:





PERFORMANCE INDICATOR UNIT SEPTEMBER 2022 QUARTER DECEMBER 2022 QUARTER MARCH 2023 QUARTER FY 2023 TO DATE Gold recovered Ounces 137,460 130,911 130,275 398,645 Gold poured Ounces 139,553 130,992 130,512 401,057 Production Cost US$/ounce 762 881 830 823 All-In Site Cost (AISC) US$/ounce 879 983 971 943 Gold sales Ounces 58,767 203,154 135,111 397,031 Average sales price US$/ounce 1,645 1,748 1,821 1,757 Cash margin US$/ounce 766 765 850 814 Notional Cashflow US$ million 112 101 111 324

Gold production of 130,275 ounces was within 0.5% of December 2022 quarter production.

US$971 per ounce weighted average AISC was 1.2% lower than the December 2022 quarter.

Average sale price of gold sold (135,111 ounces) was US$1,821 per ounce , up 4% or US$73 per ounce compared to December 2022 quarter.

Average cash margin of US$850 per ounce of gold sold was 11% greater than in the prior quarter, reflecting both an improved realised gold price and the AISC decrease.

Notional cashflow from operations of US$111 million during the quarter, 10% more than last quarter (US$101 million).

Perseuss strong operating performance is forecast to continue in the June 2023 quarter with both gold production and cost guidance for the 2023 June Half Year and Financial Year, expected to be achieved.

Strong quarterly cashflows further strengthened Perseuss financial position with available cash and bullion of US$471 million , zero debt, net cash and bullion balance increased by US$66 million at quarter end.

Perseuss revolving corporate credit facility upsized to US$300 million during the quarter provides additional capacity to fund its growth strategy while continuing to pay dividends to shareholders.

Development activities continued at Meyas Sand Gold Project (MSGP) in Sudan, with confirmatory and sterilisation drilling, Front-End Engineering and Design and site preparation, ahead of a possible FID during December 2023 Half Year.

Organic growth activities including Mineral Resource drill outs and feasibility studies for MSGP and Yaoures CMA Underground Project progressed on schedule. Results due in the September 2023 quarter.

Perseuss total economic contribution to its host countries of Ghana, Cote dIvoire and Sudan was ~US$156 million (approximately 63% of revenue) during the quarter.





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Competent Person Statement

All production targets referred to in this report are underpinned by estimated Ore Reserves which have been prepared by competent persons in accordance with the requirements of the JORC Code.

Edikan

The information in this report that relates to the Esuajah South Underground Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve was first reported by the Company in a market announcement Perseus Mining Updates Mineral Resources & Ore Reserves released on 24 August 2021. The information in this report that relates to Esuajah North Mineral Resources estimate was first reported by the Company in a market announcement Perseus Updates Resources & Reserves released on 28 August 2018. The information in this report that relates to AF Gap Mineral Resources and Ore Reserve estimate was first reported by the Company in a market announcement Perseus Updates Mineral Resources & Ore Reserves released on 25 August 2020. The information in this report that relates to the Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve estimates for the Fetish deposit and the Heap Leach was first reported by the Company in a market announcement Perseus Updates Edikan Mineral Resource & Ore Reserves released on 19 February 2020. The information in this report that relates to the Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve estimates for the Nkosuo deposit was first reported by the Company in a market announcement Perseus Increases Edikans Inventories of Mineral Resource & Ore Reserves released on 19 July 2022. An update for mining depletion at Edikan as at 30 June 2022 was reported in a news release Perseus Mining Updates Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves dated 30 August 2022. The Company confirms that it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affect the information on those market releases and that all material assumptions underpinning those estimates and the production targets, or the forecast financial information derived therefrom, continue to apply and have not materially changed. The Company further confirms that material assumptions underpinning the estimates of Ore Reserves described in Technical Report  Edikan Gold Mine, Ghana dated 7 April 2022 continue to apply.

Sissingue, Fimbiasso and Bagoe

The information in this report that relates to Mineral Resources and Ore Reserve estimates for Sissingue was reported by the Company in a market announcement Perseus Mining Updates Life of Mine Plan for Sissingue Gold Mine & Satellite Deposits released on 28 March 2022. An update for mining depletion at Sissingue as at 30 June 2022 was reported in a news release Perseus Mining Updates Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves dated 30 August 2022. The information in this report that relates to Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve estimates for the Fimbiasso deposits was reported by the Company in a market announcement Perseus Mining Updates Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves released on 26 August 2020. The information in this report that relates to Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve estimates for the Bagoe deposits was reported by the Company in a market announcement Perseus Mining Updates Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves released on 24 August 2021. The Company confirms that all material assumptions underpinning those estimates and the production targets, or the forecast financial information derived therefrom, in that market release continue to apply and have not materially changed. The Company further confirms that material assumptions underpinning the estimates of Ore Reserves described in Technical Report  Sissingue Gold Project, Cote dIvoire dated 28 March 2022 continue to apply.

Yaoure

The information in this report that relates to the Open Pit and Underground Mineral Resources and the Underground Ore Reserve at CMA was first reported by the Company in a market announcement Perseus Mining announces maiden Underground Ore Reserve at Yaoure released on 30 August 2022. The information in this report that relates to the other Mineral Resources & Ore Reserves (including the Heap Leach) for the Yaoure Deposit was reported by the Company in a market announcement Perseus Mining Updates Mineral Resources & Ore Reserves released on 24 August 2021. An update for mining depletion at Yaoure as at 30 June 2022 was reported in a news release Perseus Mining Updates Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves dated 30 August 2022. The Company confirms that all material assumptions underpinning those estimates and the production targets, or the forecast financial information derived therefrom, in that market release continue to apply and have not materially changed. The Company further confirms that material assumptions underpinning the estimates of Ore Reserves described in Technical Report  Yaoure Gold Project, Cote dIvoire dated 18 December 2017 continue to apply.

The information in this report relating to exploration results was first reported by the Company in compliance with the JORC Code 2012 and NI43-101 in a market update PERSEUSS DRILLING DEMONSTRATES POTENTIAL FOR ADDITIONAL GOLD RESOURCES AT YAOURE GOLD MINE released on 18 January 2023. The Company confirms that it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affect the information in these market releases.

Caution Regarding Forward Looking Information:

This report contains forward-looking information which is based on the 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 of the Company believes to be relevant and reasonable in the circumstances at the date that such statements are made, but which may prove to be incorrect. Assumptions have been made by the Company regarding, among other things: the price of gold, continuing commercial production at the Yaoure Gold Mine, the Edikan Gold Mine and the Sissingue Gold Mine without any major disruption due to the COVID-19 pandemic or otherwise, the receipt of required governmental approvals, the accuracy of capital and operating cost estimates, the ability of the Company to operate in a safe, efficient and effective manner and the ability of the Company to obtain financing as and when required and on reasonable terms. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list is not exhaustive of all factors and assumptions which may have been used by the Company. Although management believes that the assumptions made by the Company and the expectations represented by such information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that the forward-looking information will prove to be accurate. Forward-looking information involves 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 anticipated future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such factors include, among others, the actual market price of gold, the actual results of current exploration, the actual results of future exploration, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be evaluated, as well as those factors disclosed in the Company's publicly filed documents. The Company believes that the assumptions and expectations reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable. Assumptions have been made regarding, among other things, the Companys ability to carry on its exploration and development activities, the timely receipt of required approvals, the price of gold, the ability of the Company to operate in a safe, efficient and effective manner and the ability of the Company to obtain financing as and when required and on reasonable terms. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Perseus does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

ASX/TSX CODE: PRU



CAPITAL STRUCTURE:

Ordinary shares: 1,367,463,113

Performance rights: 12,001,072



REGISTERED OFFICE:



Level 2

437 Roberts Road

Subiaco WA 6008



Telephone: +61 8 6144 1700

Email: IR@perseusmining.com



www.perseusmining.com DIRECTORS:



Mr Sean Harvey

Non-Executive Chairman



Mr Jeff Quartermaine

Managing Director & CEO



Ms Amber Banfield

Non-Executive Director



Ms Elissa Cornelius

Non-Executive Director



Mr Dan Lougher

Non-Executive Director



Mr John McGloin

Non-Executive Director



Mr David Ransom

Non-Executive Director



CONTACTS:



Jeff Quartermaine

Managing Director & CEO

jeff.quartermaine@perseusmining.com



Nathan Ryan

Corporate Relations

+61 4 20 582 887

nathan.ryan@nwrcommunications.com.au

Attachment




Royal Philips

Philips 2023 FHI: Healthcare leaders focused on staff shortages

Philips 2023 FHI: Healthcare leaders want to step up AI investments

April 18, 2023

Healthcare leaders are heavily investing in AI or plan to do so for both critical decision support and operational efficiency, helping tackle staff shortages

Largest global survey of its kind shows healthcare leaders continue to recognize virtual care as key to bringing care closer to patients, wherever they are

Amsterdam, the Netherlands, and Chicago, USA  Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA), a global leader in health technology, today announced the results of its Future Health Index (FHI) 2023 report : Taking healthcare everywhere. Unveiled at HIMSS23 , the eighth annual FHI 2023 global report shows healthcare leaders are increasingly prepared to invest in AI, recognize the opportunity virtual care offers to bring care closer to patients, and acknowledge the importance of building partnerships to improve care.

Post Covid, demand for healthcare services has increased, but there are fewer healthcare professionals available to serve this growing number of patients. This years report shows healthcare leaders are prepared to invest in AI to alleviate this pressure on their workforce, said Shez Partovi , Chief Innovation & Strategy Officer and Business Leader of Enterprise Informatics at Philips. In order to genuinely relieve that burden, its essential that new AI capabilities are interoperable and embedded into clinical and operational workflows.

Tackling staff shortages with digital innovation and automation

Planned investments in AI over the next three years show the biggest increase in critical decision support (39% in 2023, up from 24% in 2021). This was a top choice among cardiology (50%) and radiology (48%) leaders. The percentage of healthcare leaders planning to invest in AI for operational efficiency, including automating documentation, scheduling patients, and performing routine tasks, remained steady at 37%.

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Bringing care closer to the patient, expanding access points and convenience

With moving care to new settings a key contributor to reducing staffing pressure, 70% of all respondents say virtual care has had the biggest impact on improving patient care or will in the next three years. The report also shows virtual care is moving into more areas of care, meeting patients where they are. 82% of healthcare leaders say that their facility currently provides intensive or critical care supported virtually (41%) or plans to in the next three years (41%). Virtual care also plays a vital role in attracting and retaining talent, with 44% of younger healthcare professionals indicating new care delivery models that connect different care settings are a top priority when choosing where to work.

Partnering across the healthcare ecosystem to expand the reach of care

One in three (34%) healthcare leaders are building partnerships outside their healthcare system to be able to provide the best possible care. Among their top choices of current partners are diagnostic imaging or screening centers (28%), ambulatory care centers (23%), emergency medical centers (23%), and retailers or pharmacies (22%)  all of which can also help in bringing care closer to the patient.

The FHI 2023 report is based on proprietary research among nearly 3,000 healthcare leaders and younger healthcare professionals conducted in 14 countries. To access the report, visit Future Health Index 2023 .

For further information, please contact:



Meredith Amoroso

Philips Global Press Office

Tel.: +1 724-584-8991

E-mail: meredith.amoroso@philips.com





About Royal Philips

Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA) is a leading health technology company focused on improving people's health and well-being through meaningful innovation. Philips patient- and people-centric innovation leverages advanced technology and deep clinical and consumer insights to deliver personal health solutions for consumers and professional health solutions for healthcare providers and their patients in the hospital and the home. Headquartered in the Netherlands, the company is a leader in diagnostic imaging, ultrasound, image-guided therapy, monitoring and enterprise informatics, as well as in personal health. Philips generated 2022 sales of EUR 17.8 billion and employs approximately 77,000 employees with sales and services in more than 100 countries. News about Philips can be found at www.philips.com/newscenter .

Attachments




Pixieset was recently certified as a Great Place to Work and recognized as one of the Best Workplaces in Canada.

VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / April 18, 2023 / Pixieset Media Inc. ("Pixieset" or the "Company"), a leading software solutions provider for photographers and creative professionals, has been named one of the 2023 Best Workplaces in Canada by the Great Place to Work Institute. This is the second year in a row that Pixieset has been recognized in this category, having previously ranked as the 7th Best Workplaces in Canada in 2022 for employers with 50-99 employees.

Best Workplaces in Canada



The Best Workplaces in Canada list is compiled by the Great Place to Work Institute, a global research and consulting firm with a mission to build a better society by helping companies transform their workplaces. The Best Workplaces list is based on entirely feedback from employees, who are surveyed about their workplace experience and perceptions of the company culture. This year's recognition is particularly meaningful given that Pixieset has nearly doubled its workforce over the past year, highlighting its consistent commitment to the care and support of its employees.

"We are thrilled to once again be recognized as one of the Best Workplaces in Canada," said Co-founder and CEO Simon Wong.

Pixieset has implemented a number of initiatives to foster a positive work environment, including flexible work arrangements, and comprehensive benefits and wellness programs that include professional development opportunities. In addition, the company has invested considerably into regular team building events, creating a strong sense of community and providing opportunities for team members to connect both in person and virtually.

"This certification is a testament not only to Pixieset's commitment to fostering a positive workplace culture at Pixieset," Co-founder and COO Phoebe Jiang commented, "but more importantly, to the team's hard work in building, supporting and being apart of that culture. We are grateful for their contributions and look forward to continuing to grow the company alongside our team."

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About Pixieset:

Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia, Pixieset is an all-in-one SaaS platform that offers a range of solutions including website, gallery, and business management tools to help photographers and other creatives manage their workflow. The company serves over 800,000+ users around the world and is a market leader in the industry.

Pixieset is currently hiring for a range of roles in Canada-learn more about these job opportunities at pixieset.com/careers and stay in touch by following Pixieset on LinkedIn, and Instagram. For more information, visit pixieset.com.

About Great Place to Work:

Great Place to Work is the global authority on high-trust, high-performance workplace cultures. It is a global research and consulting firm that provides benchmarks, framework, and expertise needed to create, sustain, and recognize outstanding workplace cultures. In Canada, Great Place to Work produces both industry and demographic-specific Best Workplace lists. This is part of the world's largest annual workplace study, which culminates in a series of national lists in over 50 countries, including the study's flagship list of 100 Best Companies published annually in Fortune magazine. The 2023 Best Workplaces in Canada list is compiled by Great Place to Work based on direct feedback from employees of participating organizations. For more information about the list and the methodology used to select the winners, visit www.greatplacetowork.ca.

Contact Information

Rianna Tan

HR Specialist

info@pixieset.com

6043187779

SOURCE: Pixieset Media Inc.

.





View source version on accesswire.com:

https://www.accesswire.com/749707/Pixieset-Named-One-of-the-2023-Best-Workplaces-in-Canada-by-Great-Place-to-Work-Institute




Singapore, Singapore, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Poly Network, the global cross-chain protocol, attended the Hong Kong Web3 Festival on April 15th, 2023, at sub-stage 2. The festival, which was co-hosted by HashKey Group and Wanxiang Blockchain Labs, featured over 100 crypto projects as exhibitors and 300 distinguished industry leaders, venture capitalists and senior executives from finance institutions as speakers.

Poly Network's Core Ecosystem Contributor, Dr. Luke Liu, was a keynote speaker at a "Cross-Chain" themed panel discussion, along with globally renowned cross-chain technology experts and leaders of the Cosmos ecosystem development team. The panel discussion explored the security of Web3 interoperability protocols, which offer core infrastructure and promising development opportunities for the multichain Web 3.0 ecosystem.

Interoperability protocols are essential to the establishment of interaction standards for assets, data, applications, and consensus across different blockchain networks. Thus, security of these interoperability protocols is one of the top priorities for Web 3.0, and the critical pre-condition for the security guarantees provided by potentially heterogeneous networks to propagate.

Poly Network's security research and case studies on reported attacks in the past two years pointed out the need for a security risk model for interoperability protocols. Poly Network has worked on delivering security guarantees and programming models for Web 3.0 interoperability protocols. The research has focused on the potential attack surfaces of interoperability protocols for Web 3.0 projects, developers, security researchers, and more importantly, facilitated the optimization and application of existing security solutions in the multichain ecosystem.

Poly Network's programming model has provided new paradigms for the development of multichain applications that synergize with advanced security technologies to deliver more improved practical security guarantees than simply relying on auditing processes that commonly take place when the development has been finalised.

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Poly Network emphasised the importance of security specifications in ensuring the security of Web3 interoperability protocols. Due to the lack of well-defined security specifications, it is often non-straightforward for security solutions based on code analysis and formal verification to fit in the context of interoperability protocols. The main capabilities of existing security technologies are largely limited to address business-level security demands, making it the case that audited projects are still vulnerable to external hacks. Poly Network has recognized the significance of this and has made it a primary focus of its future work. By creating detailed security specifications, Poly Network aims to prevent security risks and provide a more secure environment for the multichain ecosystem. Through its continued research and development, Poly Network strives to provide better security solutions for Web3 interoperability protocols and promote the overall security of the blockchain industry.

Poly Network integrated 35+ blockchains, such as Ethereum, Aptos, Polygon, Avalanche, Fantom, BNB Chain, Arbitrum, Optimism, OKC, Neo, Zilliqa, and Metis. The protocol enabled cross-chain asset transfers worth over USD 16 billion.

"We were excited to attend the Hong Kong Web3 Festival and share our research on the security of Web3 interoperability protocols. We actively looked for researchers, developers, and partners to push the development of critical research and products. Welcome aboard to the Poly Network ecosystem!" said Dr. Luke Liu, Core Ecosystem Contributor for Poly Network.

About the Web3 Festival

The inaugural Hong Kong Web3 Festival (1215 April) is a digital asset-focused conference co-hosted by the HashKey Group and Wanxiang Blockchain Labs and organised by W3ME at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. The event will draw more than 10,000 offline attendees and will also feature over 100 crypto projects as exhibitors and 300 distinguished industry leaders, venture capitalists and senior executives from finance institutions as speakers. Hong Kong Web3 Festival 2023 will be held in sync with the Hong Kong International Innovation and Technology Exhibition (InnoEX), organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC). Together, this series of events are branded as the Business Week of Innovation and Technology (BITWEEK) hosted by HKTDC.

Website | Twitter | LinkedIn | Medium



About Poly Network:

Poly Network is a global cross-chain protocol that aims to promote blockchain interoperability and the development of Web3.0 infrastructure. Its blockchain and cross-chain bridge technology have been uniquely designed to facilitate communication and enable transactions between heterogeneous chains, including mainstream public chains from the protocol layer. To date, Poly Network has integrated 35+ blockchains, such as Ethereum, Aptos, Polygon, Avalanche, Fantom, BNB Chain, Arbitrum, Optimism, OKC, Neo, Zilliqa, and Metis. Since its launch, the protocol has enabled cross-chain asset transfers worth over USD 16 billion.

Website | Telegram | Medium | Twitter | Discord | Github








With a price-to-earnings (or "P/E") ratio of 3.8x Atlantic Navigation Holdings (Singapore) Limited (Catalist:5UL) may be sending very bullish signals at the moment, given that almost half of all companies in Singapore have P/E ratios greater than 12x and even P/E's higher than 20x are not unusual. However, the P/E might be quite low for a reason and it requires further investigation to determine if it's justified.

For example, consider that Atlantic Navigation Holdings (Singapore)'s financial performance has been pretty ordinary lately as earnings growth is non-existent. It might be that many expect the uninspiring earnings performance to worsen, which has repressed the P/E. If you like the company, you'd be hoping this isn't the case so that you could potentially pick up some stock while it's out of favour.

See our latest analysis for Atlantic Navigation Holdings (Singapore)

Although there are no analyst estimates available for Atlantic Navigation Holdings (Singapore), take a look at this free data-rich visualisation to see how the company stacks up on earnings, revenue and cash flow.

How Is Atlantic Navigation Holdings (Singapore)'s Growth Trending?

There's an inherent assumption that a company should far underperform the market for P/E ratios like Atlantic Navigation Holdings (Singapore)'s to be considered reasonable.

Retrospectively, the last year delivered virtually the same number to the company's bottom line as the year before. Still, the latest three year period has seen an excellent 367% overall rise in EPS, in spite of its uninspiring short-term performance. So we can start by confirming that the company has done a great job of growing earnings over that time.

Comparing that to the market, which is only predicted to deliver 1.5% growth in the next 12 months, the company's momentum is stronger based on recent medium-term annualised earnings results.

In light of this, it's peculiar that Atlantic Navigation Holdings (Singapore)'s P/E sits below the majority of other companies. Apparently some shareholders believe the recent performance has exceeded its limits and have been accepting significantly lower selling prices.

Story continues

The Final Word

Typically, we'd caution against reading too much into price-to-earnings ratios when settling on investment decisions, though it can reveal plenty about what other market participants think about the company.

We've established that Atlantic Navigation Holdings (Singapore) currently trades on a much lower than expected P/E since its recent three-year growth is higher than the wider market forecast. When we see strong earnings with faster-than-market growth, we assume potential risks are what might be placing significant pressure on the P/E ratio. At least price risks look to be very low if recent medium-term earnings trends continue, but investors seem to think future earnings could see a lot of volatility.

Plus, you should also learn about these 3 warning signs we've spotted with Atlantic Navigation Holdings (Singapore) (including 1 which shouldn't be ignored).

It's important to make sure you look for a great company, not just the first idea you come across. So take a peek at this free list of interesting companies with strong recent earnings growth (and a low P/E).

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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Bakery Owners Develop Pancake Mixes with Zero Calories and Adding Organic Flavor Ingredients to Promote Healthy Lifestyles to Their Consumers. Know More Trends with FMI. The United States dominating the prepared flour mixes market by 2033

NEWARK, Del, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The prepared flour mixes market is securing a valuation of US$ 31.7 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach US$ 58.40 billion by 2033. The market is capturing a CAGR of 6.3% during the forecast period.



How is Bakery Industry Rapidly Growing in the Global Market?

The bakery industry is a significant end-user sector that captures a maximum portion of the share in the global market. Growing demand for baking mixes with adding dry mixed ingredients among consumers is surging the bakery industry by providing convenient and consistent baking solutions. Due to busy schedules, consumers prefer to visit bakery shops for organic and healthy prepared flour mixes.

Prepared flour mixes offer a quick and easy solution that requires minimal preparation time and effort. Conversely, novice bakers constantly create better-prepared flour mixes from scratch with their technical skills. Consumers are also assured of their consistent outcome every time they bake.

Find a comprehensive report summary that describes the market size and forecast along with the research methodology. The Sample report is available in PDF format@ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-17022

The bakery industry is successfully expanding the global market in developed and developing countries such as China, Japan, and the United States. The bakery professionals provide unique taste and flavor to the flour mixes, such as chocolate and vanilla. Other prepared flour mixes include gluten-free, vegan and adding of exotic fresh flavors such as matcha and lavender.

Consumers are attracted by the unique, healthy variety of products in bakeries. These crucial factors are fueling the global market growth within the industry.

Story continues

Key Takeaways:

The prepared flour mixes market is estimated to register a CAGR of 6.3% with a valuation of US$ 58.40 billion by 2033.

Historically, the global market captured a valuation of US$ 23.36 billion in 2018.

The United States is leading the global market by registering a maximum share during the forecast period.



Which Strategies Are Key Players Adopting in the Global Market?

The prepared flour mixes market is rapidly growing, with key players adopting various strategies to gain a competitive advantage. These strategies are:

Product Innovation: Key players are innovating with their products to meet changing consumer demand. They introduced new products with unique flavors and packaging styles.

Expansion: Many key players are expanding their operations by entering new markets, establishing new distribution channels and acquiring other companies.

Mergers and Acquisitions: Key players are merging and acquiring other companies to consolidate their position in the market. It helps them to gain new technologies and products and strengthen the market.

Partnerships and Collaborations: Key players are forming partnerships and collaborations with other companies in the food industry to share resources and expertise. It helps them to reduce costs, improve product quality and expand market reach.

We Offer Tailor-made Solutions to fit Your Requirements, Request Customization@ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/customization-available/rep-gb-17022

Who is Winning?

Archer Daniels Midland Company, General Mills Inc, Cargill Inc, Associated British Foods plc, The Hain Celestial Group, Inc, ConAgra Brands, Inc, Kerry Group plc, The J.M. Smucker Company, Bobs Red Mill Natural Foods, Inc, Chelsea Milling Company

Prepared Flour Mixes Market by Category

By Product:

Batter Mixes

Bread Mixes

Pastry Mixes



By Application

Food Processing Industry

Household

Bakery Shop

Others

Region:

North America

Europe

Latin America

Asia Pacific

The Middle East and Africa



Recent Developments in the Global Market are:

In 2020, General Mills launched new "Good Deeds Mixes" baking mixes. It includes four varieties: chocolate chip cookie, brownie, cornbread, and pizza crust. The company also announced a US$ 5 million commitment to support social justice initiatives.

In 2020, Archer Daniels Midland completed the acquisition of Rodelle Inc, a premium vanilla extracts and flavors company. This acquisition strengthens the company's position in the specialty ingredients market.

In 2020, Associated British Foods' baking ingredients division, AB Mauri, launched a new range of clean-label bread improvers called CredibleCrumb". It is designed to help bakers create bread with improved texture and taste with a clean label.

In 2020, Kerry Group acquired Biosearch Life, a Spanish biotechnology company specializing in natural extracts and probiotics. This acquisition is expected to strengthen Kerry's health and wellness market position.

Grow your Profit Margin with Future Market Insights  Buy the Report! https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/checkout/17022

Table of Content

1. Executive Summary | Prepared Flour Mixes Market

1.1. Global Market Outlook

1.2. Demand-side Trends

1.3. Supply-side Trends

1.4. Technology Roadmap Analysis

1.5. Analysis and Recommendations

2. Market Overview

2.1. Market Coverage / Taxonomy

2.2. Market Definition / Scope / Limitations

3. Market Background

3.1. Market Dynamics

3.1.1. Drivers

3.1.2. Restraints

3.1.3. Opportunity

3.1.4. Trends

3.2. Scenario Forecast

3.2.1. Demand in Optimistic Scenario

3.2.2. Demand in Likely Scenario

3.2.3. Demand in Conservative Scenario

3.3. Opportunity Map Analysis

3.4. Product Life Cycle Analysis

3.5. Supply Chain Analysis

3.5.1. Supply Side Participants and their Roles

3.5.1.1. Producers

3.5.1.2. Mid-Level Participants (Traders/ Agents/ Brokers)

3.5.1.3. Wholesalers and Distributors

3.5.2. Value Added and Value Created at Node in the Supply Chain

3.5.3. List of Raw Material Suppliers

3.5.4. List of Existing and Potential Buyers

3.6. Investment Feasibility Matrix

3.7. Value Chain Analysis

3.7.1. Profit Margin Analysis

3.7.2. Wholesalers and Distributors

3.7.3. Retailers

View Full Report@ https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/prepared-flour-mixes-market

Explore FMIs Extensive Ongoing Coverage on Food and Beverage Domain

Bakery Mixes Market Demand: Global bakery mixes market demand is anticipated to be valued at US$ 5,912.3 Million in 2022, forecast to grow at a CAGR of 5.3% to be valued at US$ 9,909.2 million from 2022 to 2032.

USA Food Service Industry Size: The USA food service industry size is expected to reach US$ 1995.0 billion by 2033. It is anticipated to cross a valuation of around US$ 985.5 billion by 2023. The market is likely to exhibit considerable growth at a CAGR of 7.3% from 2023 to 2033.

Food Thickening Agents Market Sales: FMI estimates that the global food thickening agents market size could surpass US$ 3.93 billion by 2033, up from US$ 2.70 billion in 2023. During this assessment period, the market is likely to exhibit a moderate CAGR of 4%.

Cocoa Derivatives Market Trends: The cocoa derivatives market's net worth is predicted to grow from US$ 29.31 billion in 2023 to over US$ 49.59 billion by 2033. The market is expected to register a 5.4% CAGR from 2023 to 2033.

Food Service Coffee Market Growth: Throughout the projection period, the food service coffee market may flourish at a CAGR of 4.0%, from US$ 437.12 billion in 2023 to US$ 647.05 billion in 2033. A US$ 420.31 billion market was predicted for the world in 2022.

About Future Market Insights, Inc.

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DALLAS, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Prospera Financial Services, Inc. ("Prospera"), a boutique wealth management firm supporting a nationwide network of independent advisors, today announced their association with Howell Wealth Advisors. Managing Director Josh Howell leads the two-member team, which oversees approximately $215 million in client assets and is based in Punta Gorda, Florida.

(PRNewsfoto/Prospera Financial Services)

Josh Howell, Managing Director, has nearly 30 years of experience as a financial advisor. He and relationship manager, Liz Fisher, have joined Prospera and continue to serve clients across Southwestern Florida and beyond.

"Josh has built an incredible practice that provides clients with personalized services and support across generations of client families," said Tarah Williams, Prospera's President and Chief Operating Officer. "His firm fits perfectly into our boutique model and will benefit from our industry-leading fixed-income offerings and tailored advisor support."

Howell Wealth Advisors became an independent firm in 2014 as Howell Wealth Management. It provides tax-efficient wealth, retirement and estate planning support that utilizes a range of investment opportunities to minimize risk and ensure long-term flexibility for pre-retirees and retirees.

Howell added, "Our decision to join Prospera was based on a combination of things, primarily their culture of service: their commitment to their service training program made me realize that Prospera prioritizes satisfactory customer service  demonstrated by their response times being virtually immediate. Throughout our due diligence, I felt that gold level service through every interaction, whether I was on the phone with one of the employees or walking through the office meeting and talking to employees."

Founded by financial advisors for financial advisors, Prospera's boots-on-the-ground leadership team puts a premium on soliciting and acting upon advisor feedback. The firm maintains a 2:1 rep-to-home office ratio to ensure every advisor receives the personalized support they deserve. Prospera continues to grow organically and through M&A efforts, and has increased revenue 113% over the past five years.

Story continues

About Prospera Financial Services

Founded in 1982, Prospera Financial Services, Member FINRA, SIPC and a registered investment advisory, offers the flexibility and resources only found at some of the nation's largest broker-dealers. Headquartered in Dallas, Prospera was named Broker-Dealer of the Year by Investment Advisor Magazine in 2009, 2010, 2012, 2014, 2015, 2018 and 2019. Prospera is a 5-time winner and 7-time finalist for WealthManagement.com's Industry Awards as well as a ThinkAdvisor Luminaries award winner in its inaugural year. The firm supports independent financial advisors nationwide. For more information about Prospera, visit www.joinprospera.com.

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SOURCE Prospera Financial Services
Vladimir Putin - GAVRIIL GRIGOROV/SPUTNIK/KREMLIN POOL/POOL/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

Russia has warned Europe that it faces a fresh gas crisis next winter as it scrambles to restock reserves as Vladimir Putin launches a new attempt to weaponise energy.

Gazprom, Russias state-owned gas supplier, said Europe had made it through winter despite cuts in Russian gas supplies owing to mild temperatures but warned there is no guarantee that nature will make such a gift again.

In a statement on Twitter, it said restocking for next winter would not be easy, blaming politically motivated decisions aimed at halting the imports of Russian pipeline gas.

Russia curbed pipeline gas supplies to Europe last year in retaliation for sanctions issued in the wake of its invasion of Ukraine.

The scramble to replace Russian gas with imports from around the world triggered a surge in prices and a major cost of living crisis that has cost Europes governments billions of euros.

However, Europe is now emerging from winter with gas stocks more than half full, close to record highs for the time of year.

That puts the continent in a stronger position to manage with less Russian gas, while it can also lean on imports of liquified natural gas (LNG) from elsewhere.

Russian pipeline flows to Europe are currently averaging about 67m cubic metres per day in April 2023, compared with around 281m cubic metres per day in April 2022, according to Alex Froley, senior LNG analyst at market experts ICIS.

The drop in exports has harmed Russias coffers, with revenues from oil and gas exports reportedly 40pc to 50pc lower in January and February compared to the same months a year earlier.

Mr Froley said: Because industries and consumers cut their demand because of high prices, and it was a mild winter, Europe has a lot more gas in storage than you would have expected.

So in most of our modelling, it should be pretty achievable for Europe to refill gas storage ahead of next winter.

We don't don't expect any enormous price spikes this summer of the type that we saw last year.

Story continues

However, he warned that cold weather next winter could yet push up demand and prices again.

We should also note that even though prices have dropped from last year, theyre still around twice the long-term average of the last decade, and could remain elevated for some years to come, he added.

The UK imported little gas from Russia directly before the war and has since banned imports. However, it is connected to the European market and prices in the UK closely track those on the continent.

Wholesale gas prices in Britain climbed as high as 500p per therm during the depth of the crisis last year. They have since fallen back to around 100p, more than double the long-term average of less than 50p.

Gas is used to generate more than a third of Britains electricity and heat the majority of its homes and businesses, meaning high gas prices have a significant effect on the economy.

National Gas, the owner of Britains gas transmission network, on Tuesday said it expected there to be sufficient supplies to meet demand this summer.

However, it warned that maintenance work on pipelines from Norway, Britains largest gas supplier, could affect deliveries to Britain over the period.

Cuts in pipeline gas supplies from Norway would leave Britain more reliant on LNG, although Mr Froley said he did not see this as a particular problem for the UK.

Outages take place in summer, because demand is lower - there should be LNG," he said. "So it is another factor, but its not a big problem.

National Gas said it expected Britain would continue to act as a transit country for gas to Europe.

Over the past year, LNG destined for the continent from the US and elsewhere has first been processed in Britain, received at terminals in Milford Haven, Wales, converted back into gaseous form, and sent over to the continent via pipes from Bacton, Norfolk.

On Twitter, Gazprom warned the volume of gas available to Europe would be greatly affected by competition for LNG.

It added: [The] replenishment of has reserves in storage facilities to the level of last year may become a non-trivial task for European companies.

Tom Marzec-Manser, head of gas analytics at ICIS, said: You sense Gazprom really would like Asian LNG demand to bounce back so it will impact more pain on the European natural gas market.
Wilkin and Sons Tiptree Jam farm - Wilkin and Sons

The late Queen Elizabeth IIs favoured marmalade has become the latest food brand to fall victim to shrinkflation after its maker cut jar sizes in response to rising costs.

Wilkin & Sons has shrunk its Tiptree marmalade jars from 454g to 340g, blaming the rising cost of energy and raw materials over recent months.

It has reduced the recommended price of the jars for retailers from 2.79 to 2.59  but despite this cut, shoppers are still paying significantly more per 100g of the marmalade.

The move makes Tiptree the latest in a long list of food brands with smaller yet more expensive products as manufacturers scramble to cope with soaring costs  a practice commonly referred to as shrinkflation.

A spokesman for Wilkin & Sons said: We are sorry to have to increase our prices, but the unprecedented pressure on energy and material costs is hitting us very hard. As always, we will do our best to make top quality products at reasonable prices.

The spokesman added that the company had considered many options for how to price its marmalades and had not taken the decision lightly.

She said: We were reluctant to offer our marmalades at a price point above 3 and decided to reduce the jar size rather than take the [price] well above the 3 mark for the existing 454g range, as we felt that this was a barrier for many consumers.

Shrinkflation is not a new trend in food and drink, and has been going on for much of the last decade.

More than 200 consumer products spanning everything from toilet roll to confectionery shrunk in size between 2015 and 2017, according to figures from the Office for National Statistics, released in 2019.

However over the last year the pace of shrinkflation has increased as the cost of ingredients, energy and other raw materials has surged.

Prominent examples disclosed by The Telegraph include Mini Cheddars, which made some of its biscuits smaller and less cheesy in January, and Magnum, which cut a whole ice cream from packs of four but kept the price the same.

Story continues

Supermarkets as well as manufacturers have come under fire for shrinkflation. Grocers are facing claims from farmers that they have been shrinking strawberry punnets in order to manage rapidly rising costs.

Wilkin & Sons history dates back hundreds of years. The Wilkin family first started preserving fruit in the nineteenth century, launching the first Tiptree preserves in 1885.

The company celebrated its 125th year of manufacturing in its home county of Essex in 2010.

It has supplied Britains monarchs since 1911, and currently holds a royal warrant from the late Queen Elizabeth II.

We strive to offer top quality products at reasonable prices and felt this reduction in jar size to be the most sensible option to offer consumers a product which they could better afford, at a time when the cost of living for all has risen considerably, the spokesman said.
AS LHV Group

To give an overview of the 2023 Q1 financial results, LHV Group organised an investor meeting webinar on 18 April. The overview of the company's progress was presented Kadri Kiisel, Chairman of the Managment Board of LHV Pank and Vahur Vallistu, Chairman of the Managment Board of LHV Varahaldus.



The live coverage was followed by 20 participants, the live feed of the presentation was broadcast over Zoom.

Recording of the investor meeting (in Estonian) is available at: https://youtu.be/R1Apv47HV7E.

Presentation (in English): https://www.lhv.ee/assets/files/investor/LHV_Group_Presentation_2023-Q1-EN.pdf.





Priit Rum

Communication Manager

Phone: +372 502 0786

Email: priit.rum@lhv.ee








VANCOUVER, BC, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - RESAAS Services Inc. (TSXV: RSS) (OTCQB: RSASF), ("RESAAS" or the "Company"), a leading provider of technology solutions for the Real Estate Industry, has announced a preliminary partnership with Rocket Mortgage Canada.

RESAAS is a leading provider of technology solutions for the Real Estate Industry. Logo (CNW Group/RESAAS SERVICES INC.)

Rocket Mortgage Canada is a digital mortgage broker, using technology to deliver a revolutionized mortgage process. The partnership introduces a unique way for real estate agents to add value to clients by offering access to a simplified mortgage process through Rocket Mortgage Canada.

"Exclusive real estate data gathered by RESAAS shows real estate agents generate higher referral fees when referring clients that are pre-approved for a mortgage," said Tom Rossiter, CEO of RESAAS. "RESAAS has selected Rocket Mortgage Canada because its digital experience is complimentary with RESAAS's technology-forward solution. Our goal is simple: to enable RESAAS agents to pre-qualify their clients quickly for the best mortgage products and lowest rates available."

"As a fintech company, Rocket Mortgage Canada understands the value of a digital experience to help simplify the mortgage process for both clients and their real estate agents," said Hash Aboulhosn, President of Rocket Mortgage Canada. "That's why this partnership with RESAAS makes sense  their technology for the real estate professional provides yet another digital touchpoint on our way toward fully digitizing the mortgage process."

Under the terms of the one-year agreement signed on March 1, 2023, Rocket Mortgage Canada and RESAAS will share the revenue generated via the partnership from all new mortgages, mortgage renewals and refinances.

About Rocket Mortgage Canada

Rocket Mortgage Canada is a digital mortgage broker and a part of Rocket Companies (NYSE: RKT). Rocket Companies is a Detroit-based holding company consisting of personal finance and consumer technology brands including Rocket Mortgage, LLC, one of the largest mortgage lenders in the U.S. Founded in 2020, Rocket Mortgage Canada aims to transform and modernize the mortgage experience in Canada by providing a streamlined process for individuals looking to purchase a home or refinance their mortgage. Rocket Mortgage Canada's mortgage agents aim to deliver the highest level of client service. For more information, or to apply for a mortgage, visit RocketMortgage.ca.

Story continues

About RESAAS Services Inc.

RESAAS is an award-winning global technology platform for the real estate industry. With over 500,000 real estate agents utilizing RESAAS in 160 countries, RESAAS enables real-time industry communication, delivers new business opportunities and captures unique real estate data. Some of real estate's biggest brands leverage RESAAS to provide business intelligence to real estate brokerages, franchises and associations. For more information, please visit https://www.resaas.com .

Disclaimer

The TSX Venture Exchange has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

The statements made in this news release may contain forward-looking statements that may involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Actual events or results could differ materially from RESAAS Services Inc.'s expectations and projections.

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SOURCE RESAAS SERVICES INC.
INVL Baltic Real Estate

The resolutions of the General Ordinary Shareholders Meeting (hereinafter - "the Meeting") of special closed-ended type real estate investment company INVL Baltic Real Estate (hereinafter  the Company) that was held on 18 April 2023:

1. Presentation of the Companys consolidated annual report for 2022

1.1. Shareholders of the Company were presented with the consolidated annual report of the Company for 2022 (attached) (there is no voting on this issue of agenda).

2. Presentation of the independent auditor's report on the financial statements and consolidated annual report of the Company

2.1. Shareholders of the Company were presented with the independent auditor's report on the financial statements and consolidated annual report of the Company (attached) (there is no voting on this issue of agenda).

3. Presentation of the Companys investment committees recommendation on the draft of the profit (loss) distribution (including the formation of the reserve), the new wording of the Articles of Association, and the draft of the remuneration report

3.1. Shareholders of the Company were presented with the Companys investment committees recommendation on the draft of the profit (loss) distribution (including the formation of the reserve), the new wording of the Articles of Association, and the draft of the remuneration report (attached) (there is no voting on this issue of agenda).

4. Presentation of the Companys Supervisory Boards feedback and suggestions on the consolidated and stand-alone financial statements for 2022 of the Company, a draft of the profit (loss) distribution, Companys consolidated annual report for 2022, a draft of the remuneration policy, also regarding the activity of the Board of the Management Company and Companys investment committee, presentation of the information on Companys strategy implementation

4.1. Shareholders of the Company were presented with the Companys Supervisory Boards feedback and suggestions on the consolidated and stand-alone financial statements for 2022 of the Company, a draft of the profit (loss) distribution, Companys consolidated annual report for 2022, a draft of the remuneration policy, also regarding the activity of the Board of the Management Company and Companys investment committee, presentation of the information on Companys strategy implementation (attached) (there is no voting on this issue of agenda).

Story continues

5. Regarding the assent to the remuneration report of the Company, as a part of the consolidated annual report of the Company for the year 2022

5.1. To assent to the remuneration report of the Company, as a part of the consolidated annual report of the Company for the year 2022 (attached).

6. Approval of the consolidated and stand-alone financial statements for 2022 of the Company

6.1. To approve the consolidated and stand-alone financial statements for 2022 of the Company.

7. Deciding on profit distribution of the Company

7.1. To distribute the profit of the Company as follows:

Article (thousand EUR) Retained earnings (loss) at the beginning of the financial year of the reporting period 1,482.5 Net profit (loss) for the financial year 4,224 Profit (loss) not recognized in the income statement of the reporting financial year - Shareholders' contributions to cover loss - Distributable profit (loss) at the end of the financial year of the reporting period 5,706.50 Transfers from reserves - Distributable profit (loss) in total 5,706.50 Profit distribution: (725.5) - Profit transfers to the legal reserves - -Profit transfers to the reserves for own shares acquisition* - - Profit transfers to other reserves - - Profit to be paid as dividends* (725.5) - Profit to be paid as annual payments (bonus) and for other purposes - Retained earnings (loss) at the end of the financial year 4,981

*0.09 EUR is paid per share

8. Regarding approval of a new version of the Companys Articles of Association

8.1. Considering that a new version of the Republic of Lithuania Law on Companies entered into effect on 30 November 2022 and according to the provisions of section 1 of article 78 therein, the requirement to form a collegial body with supervisory functions no longer applies to investment companies specified in the Republic of Lithuania Law on Collective Investment Undertakings with the legal form of a public limited liability company whose shares are admitted to trading on a regulated market, to eliminate the Companys collegial body with a supervisory function  the Supervisory Board, to envisage in the Companys Articles of Association that the Management Company may form an Advisory Committee of the Company, and to approve a new version of the Articles of Association (a draft of which is attached) to replace the full text of the Articles of Association (without additionally approving the amendments to the individual sections of the Articles of Association).

8.2. To authorise Vytautas Baksinskas (with the right to redelegate) to sign the new version of the Articles of Association and to register it in the manner established by law and by the general meeting of shareholders.

9. Presentation of the Companys Management Companys statement on the share purchase price

9.1. Shareholders of the Company were presented with the Companys Management Companys statement on the share purchase price (attached) (there is no voting on this issue of agenda).

10. Regarding the purchase of own shares of the Company

10.1. To authorise the Management Company to use the formed reserve (or the part of it) for the purchase of its own shares and after evaluation of the economic viability to purchase shares in INVL Baltic Real Estate by the rules mentioned below:

The goal for the purchase of own shares  discount reduction between the net asset value and the market share price of INVL Baltic Real Estate and the possibility to sell its shares to the shareholders. The maximum number of shares to be acquired could not exceed 1/10 of the authorised capital INVL Baltic Real Estate. The period during which INVL Baltic Real Estate may purchase its own shares is 18 months from the day of this resolution. The maximum and minimal shares acquisition price of INVL Baltic Real Estate: the maximum one-share acquisition price  is the last announced net asset value per share, and the minimal one-share acquisition price  is EUR 1.45. The conditions of the selling of the purchased shares and minimal sale price: the acquired own shares may be annulled by the decision of the General Shareholders Meeting or sold by the decision of the Management Company on condition the minimum sale price of own shares shall be equal to the last net asset value and the procedure of selling the shares shall ensure equal opportunities for all shareholders to acquire the said shares. The Management Company is delegated on the basis of this resolution and the Law on Companies of the Republic of Lithuania to organise the purchase and sale of own shares, to organise the purchase and selling procedure of own shares, and to determine order and timing for purchase and sale of own shares as well as the amount of shares and shares price, and to complete all other actions related with purchase and sale procedure of own shares.

11. Regarding the repeal of the Supervisory Board remuneration policy

11.1. In light of the draft resolution of this General Meeting of Shareholders on agenda item 8, recognise that the remuneration policy for the Supervisory Board of the Company is no longer in force.

11.2. Note that the remuneration policy for employees who make decisions on taking risks, which was adopted by the Board of the Management Company, remains in force at INVL Baltic Real Estate and shall further apply (the remuneration policy is published on Companys website https://bre.invl.com/ ).

12. Regarding the approval of the new wording of the INVL Baltic Real Estate Related Policy on Transactions with Related Parties

12.1. Considering the draft resolution of this General Meeting of Shareholders on agenda item 8 and amendments to article 37 (2) of the Republic of Lithuania Law on Companies, to approve a new wording of the INVL Baltic Real Estate Policy on Transactions with Related Parties (attached).

13. Regarding the approval of new wording of the Regulations of the Audit Committee

13.1. Considering the changes in the Law on Companies regarding the evaluation of transactions with the Companys related party, the Regulations of the Audit Committee are updated accordingly. The shareholders of the Company approved the new wording of the Regulations of the Audit Committee (attached).

14. Regarding the Report of the Audit Committee of the Company

14.1. In accordance with the rules of procedure of the Audit Committee of the Company (approved on 11 April 2017 by decision of the General Meeting of Shareholders of the Company), the shareholders were hereby briefed on the activity report of the Audit Committee of the Company (attached) (no decision is taken on this item of the agenda).

The person authorized to provide additional information:

Real Estate Fund Manager of Management Company

Vytautas Baksinskas

E-mail vytautas.baksinskas@invl.com

Attachments




When close to half the companies in the Interactive Media and Services industry in Australia have price-to-sales ratios (or "P/S") below 2.8x, you may consider RMA Global Limited (ASX:RMY) as a stock to potentially avoid with its 3.8x P/S ratio. However, the P/S might be high for a reason and it requires further investigation to determine if it's justified.

View our latest analysis for RMA Global

What Does RMA Global's Recent Performance Look Like?

With revenue growth that's superior to most other companies of late, RMA Global has been doing relatively well. It seems the market expects this form will continue into the future, hence the elevated P/S ratio. However, if this isn't the case, investors might get caught out paying to much for the stock.

Keen to find out how analysts think RMA Global's future stacks up against the industry? In that case, our free report is a great place to start.

Is There Enough Revenue Growth Forecasted For RMA Global?

In order to justify its P/S ratio, RMA Global would need to produce impressive growth in excess of the industry.

Retrospectively, the last year delivered an exceptional 24% gain to the company's top line. Pleasingly, revenue has also lifted 134% in aggregate from three years ago, thanks to the last 12 months of growth. Therefore, it's fair to say the revenue growth recently has been superb for the company.

Shifting to the future, estimates from the one analyst covering the company suggest revenue should grow by 17% over the next year. That's shaping up to be materially higher than the 6.8% growth forecast for the broader industry.

With this in mind, it's not hard to understand why RMA Global's P/S is high relative to its industry peers. It seems most investors are expecting this strong future growth and are willing to pay more for the stock.

The Final Word

While the price-to-sales ratio shouldn't be the defining factor in whether you buy a stock or not, it's quite a capable barometer of revenue expectations.

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As we suspected, our examination of RMA Global's analyst forecasts revealed that its superior revenue outlook is contributing to its high P/S. At this stage investors feel the potential for a deterioration in revenues is quite remote, justifying the elevated P/S ratio. It's hard to see the share price falling strongly in the near future under these circumstances.

There are also other vital risk factors to consider before investing and we've discovered 4 warning signs for RMA Global that you should be aware of.

If these risks are making you reconsider your opinion on RMA Global, explore our interactive list of high quality stocks to get an idea of what else is out there.

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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China urges G7 to unequivocally uphold one-China principle

Xinhua) 08:10, April 18, 2023

BEIJING, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin on Monday reiterated that the Taiwan question is China's internal affair, urging G7 countries to unequivocally uphold the one-China principle.

Wang made the remarks at a regular press briefing in response to a related query.

Wang stressed that there is but one China in the world, Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory, and the government of the People's Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China. These are the core meaning of the one-China principle and the key to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

"Relevant countries must recognize that the Taiwan question is China's internal affair which brooks no external interference," Wang noted.

He said though the mainland and Taiwan have yet to reunify, they belong to one and the same China. Taiwan is part of China's territory. China's sovereignty and territorial integrity have never been divided. This is the true status quo in the Taiwan Strait.

Noting that Taiwan's return to China is an important component of the post-war international order, Wang said to uphold the one-China principle is to defend the post-war international order.

"As facts have proven once and again, a separatist agenda advanced at all costs by 'Taiwan independence' elements in Taiwan with the support and connivance of foreign actors -- This is what's changing the status quo in the Taiwan Strait and the root cause of cross-Strait tensions," said the spokesperson.

Wang said to maintain a stable situation across the Strait and safeguard peace and tranquility in the region, one must unequivocally uphold the one-China principle and oppose "Taiwan independence" separatist activities.

"Those who say their one-China policy hasn't changed, but wink at 'Taiwan independence' separatists, overtly and covertly support them and even frame the opposition to such separatism as 'changing the status quo' -- they are not adhering to, but departing from the one-China policy and not defending, but endangering cross-Strait peace and stability. Their moves are irresponsible," Wang added.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Wu Chaolan)
SkyQuest Technology Consulting Pvt. Ltd.

SkyQuest's Healthcare Staffing market report is an excellent analysis for individuals interested in gaining insight into the valuable data, trends, and opportunities in a rapidly growing industry. Additionally, the report is written clearly and concisely, making it accessible to various audiences, from industry experts to market readers. Finally, one can gain an in-depth understanding of the primary and secondary market drivers, providing them with a comprehensive outlook of the current market situation and future projections.

Westford, USA, April 17, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- SkyQuest projects that the Healthcare Staffing market will attain a value of USD 44.11 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of 4.6% over the forecast (2022-2030). Significant increases in the number of government and non-government hospitals, long-term care centres, acute care centres and other types of health institutions are expected to drive market growth. The expansion of hospitals is being driven by improvements in healthcare infrastructure and increased investment in public health. New legislation is expected to give allied health professionals, particularly nurses, the authority to act as patients' primary advocates by initiating health plans to facilitate better care. Such legislation safeguards and promotes patients' right to make informed healthcare decisions.

According to the SkyQuest's, The shortage of skilled professionals and nurses in hospitals has an impact on both patient care and clinical outcomes. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for medical personnel is expected to increase from 2020 to 2030, with an additional 275,000 nurses needed. From 2016 to 2026, employment opportunities for nurses are expected to grow at a faster rate (9%) than for all other occupations.

Browse in-depth TOC on "Healthcare Staffing Market"

Pages  241

Tables - 65

Figures - 65

Get a sample copy of this report:

https://www.skyquestt.com/sample-request/healthcare-staffing-market

Story continues

Healthcare staffing entails the supply or recruitment of trained and skilled healthcare workers. These specialists are required in hospitals and clinics, pharmaceutical companies and government agencies. Rising healthcare costs and an ageing population are expected to be the primary market drivers for the global healthcare industry, increasing the demand for medical staffing. Furthermore, the expected shortage of skilled medical professionals in the future allows the global healthcare staffing market to expand further.

Prominent Players in Healthcare Staffing Market

Almost Family

Adecco Group

CHG Management, Inc.

AMN Healthcare

Cross Country Healthcare, Inc.

Envision Healthcare Corp.

LocumTenens.com

TeamHealth;

Maxim Healthcare Services Inc.

Syneos Health, Inc.

Browse summary of the report and Complete Table of Contents (ToC):

https://www.skyquestt.com/report/healthcare-staffing-market

Hospitals Segment Is Dominating the Market Due to Increased Government Fundings

In 2022, the hospitals segment dominated the market with a 43% revenue share. The segment is expected to experience the largest market growth. The majority of hospitals are building their workforce in accordance with government regulations. Various government bodies have established standards for standard nurse-to-patient ratios, which hospitals must adhere to. To meet the high demand, patient-centric regulations and laws are increasing the number of staff members in hospitals.

North America dominated the global market in 2022, accounting for 59.0% of revenue. The local presence of key market players, an increase in the geriatric population and an increase in hospital demand for medical staff due to financial setbacks associated with hiring permanent staff are some of the major factors contributing to this region's largest share.

Healthcare facilities Segment Is Expected to Grow the Market Due to Growing Chronic Diseases

The healthcare facilities segment is expected to be worth more than USD 82.5 billion by 2032. The rising prevalence of chronic diseases has increased patient traffic in hospitals and other medical facilities. The increased number of patient admissions as a result of these conditions has increased the workload, highlighting the need for skilled healthcare professionals. According to credible sources, the annual turnover rate in ICUs, nursing homes and emergency departments increased from 19% prior to the pandemic to 32% in 2021, increasing the demand for healthcare staffing.

Asia Pacific is expected to have the fastest CAGR during the forecast period as demand for contract labour rises in the region. The increased demand could be attributed to the fact that contract hire does not carry the obligations that are traditionally associated with permanent employees. Furthermore, the recruitment process is faster and recruiters have access to a larger pool of candidates.

A comprehensive analysis of the major players in the Healthcare Staffing market has been recently conducted in a report. The report encompasses various aspects, including collaborations, mergers, innovative business policies, and strategies, providing valuable insights into key trends and breakthroughs in the market. Furthermore, the report scrutinizes the market share of the top segments and presents a detailed geographic analysis. Lastly, the report highlights the major players in the industry and their endeavors to develop innovative solutions to cater to the growing demand.

Speak to Analyst for your custom requirements:

https://www.skyquestt.com/speak-with-analyst/healthcare-staffing-market

Key Developments in Healthcare Staffing Market

In February 2022, Cross Country Healthcare acquired nearly all of the assets of Selected, a cloud-based matching and recruiting talent platform that matches educators with institutions based on mutually agreed-upon preferences to ensure a customized and long-term fit.

In May 2021, AMN Healthcare, a staffing firm pay USD 42.5 million for telehealth providers. AMN Healthcare acquired Synzi, a virtual care provider, to increase client staffing options.

Key Questions Answered in Healthcare Staffing Market Report

What specific growth drivers are projected to impact the market during the forecast period?

Can you list the top companies in the market and explain how they have achieved their positions of influence?

In what ways do regional trends and patterns differ within the global market, and how might these differences shape the market's future growth?

Related Reports in SkyQuests Library:

European Quality Management in Healthcare Market

Global Cardiovascular Drugs Market

Global Long-Term Care Market

Global Medical Drone Market

Global Clinical Trials Support Services Market

About Us:

SkyQuest Technology is leading growth consulting firm providing market intelligence, commercialization and technology services. It has 450+ happy clients globally.

Address:

1 Apache Way, Westford, Massachusetts 01886

Phone:

USA (+1) 617-230-0741

Email: sales@skyquestt.com

LinkedIn Facebook Twitter




Partnership Allows for Support of Farmers Engaging in Sustainable Practices

HOUSTON, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Riviana Foods Inc. , America's leading rice company, is committed to a more sustainable future. Today the company announced Success Rice will partner with a group of farmers in Arkansas who are committed to sustainable rice farming. Working with SAI Platform's Farm Sustainability Assessment (FSA), a toolset for farms and companies in agricultural value chains to help assess, improve, and verify on-farm sustainability performance, Riviana Foods can support the farmers' engagement in sustainable farming practices. The company has committed to purchasing rice from these farmers (using a mass balance approach) in an amount that is equal to the volume of its Success white and brown rice consumption. This is a first step on a journey to more sustainable rice sourcing.

Growing for Tomorrow

"We consider sustainable agricultural practices to be essential, not only from a good stewardship standpoint, but also as a fundamental business principle," said Erica Larson, Director of Marketing at Riviana Foods. "To ensure a better future, it is crucial we prioritize support for farmers who engage in sustainable practices."

In utilizing the insights provided through the FSA partnership, Riviana Foods can advance sustainable agriculture through focused farm support. By working with a group of local Arkansas farmers known as a Farm Management Group, Riviana Foods manages this group as their Farm Management Group Coordinator. These farmers grow rice that will be sourced by Riviana Foods and implement FSA Silver level practices to create a sustainable operation that produces verified sustainably grown rice. The Farm Management Group can ensure their farming practices allow their farms to thrive through various means, like identifying clean and sustainable sources of renewable energy, soil management, water management, and air quality and emissions, to name a few. All of this is possible through the FSA acting as a governance mechanism, so that Riviana Foods has a third party verifying the Farm Management Group's commitment to sustainability.

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Supporting sustainable farming efforts is part of the Success Rice's Growing for Tomorrow initiative. It's also part of Riviana Foods' five pillars of sustainability, which focus on reductions around: Waste, Energy, Emissions, Water and Packaging.

Learn more about Success Rice's commitment to sustainability at www.SuccessRice.com/Sustainability .

About Riviana Foods Inc. and Success

Riviana Foods Inc. is the largest processor, marketer, and distributor of branded and private label rice products in the United States. The Riviana family of well-known brands includes Minute, Success, Mahatma, Carolina, Comet, Adolphus, Blue Ribbon, RiceSelect and Gourmet House. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, Riviana is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ebro Foods, S.A., a leading Spanish food company.

The Success product line includes traditional White Rice, Whole Grain Brown Rice, protein-packed Quinoa, and aromatic rice varieties such as Jasmine and Basmati Rice. Join the Success brand's community online at www.successrice.com . Also, follow @SuccessRice on Facebook , Pinterest , Twitter , Instagram and TikTok .

Success Rice logo (PRNewsfoto/Riviana Foods Inc.)

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SOURCE Riviana Foods Inc.
The retailer, which operates the Lowe's, RONA, and Reno-Depot banners, has been named one of Canada's Greenest Employers for a third consecutive year

BOUCHERVILLE, QC, April 18, 2023 /CNW/ - RONA inc., one of Canada's leading home improvement retailers operating or servicing some 450 corporate and affiliated stores under different banners, has been named one of Canada's Greenest Employers for a third consecutive year. This ranking published as part of Mediacorp's Canada's Top 100 Employers contest, recognizes employers who demonstrate leadership in sustainable development and proactively create a culture of environmental awareness within their organizations.

RONA inc. has been named one of Canadas Greenest Employers for a 3rd consecutive year. This ranking published as part of Mediacorps Canadas Top 100 Employers contest, recognizes employers who demonstrate leadership in sustainable development and proactively create a culture of environmental awareness within their organizations. In this photo, Melanie Lussier, Director, External Communications and Sustainable Development and Keven Rousseau, Advisor, Sustainable Development. (CNW Group/RONA inc.)

"Receiving this type of recognition is deeply important to us because it confirms that we are doing the right thing as a company and that we have a positive impact on society,'' explains Melanie Lussier, Director, External Communications and Sustainable Development at RONA inc. "Every year, we launch new projects and adopt new measures to improve our environmental track record. It's important for us to continue to improve our ways and do our part to protect the natural heritage of future generations."

Organizations in the Greenest Employer ranking are evaluated on the following four criteria:

Unique initiatives and programs developed to care for the environment;

The positive outcome of efforts to reduce their own environmental footprint;

The involvement degree of employees in these programs, and whether they have unique skills to contribute; and

The extent to which these initiatives are linked to the employer's public identity and serve to attract new employees and customers.

A Team Success

To carry out its many projects, RONA relies on the active and enthusiastic participation of its employees who are committed to making a difference. In 2022, the company launched its brand-new ECO Squad in stores, made up of employees who are motivated to play an active role in helping the organization achieve its environmental goals. "Creating a culture of sustainability that reaches all areas of the company is very important to us at RONA. It is something that resonates strongly with our employees, but also with potential candidates and with our customers. We feel it's important for people to partner with and encourage responsible businesses," adds Lussier.

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To share this news on social media, please use @RONAcarrierses.careers (Facebook), @RONA (LinkedIn) and @RONAinc (Twitter).

About RONA inc.

RONA inc. is one of Canada's leading home improvement retailers headquartered in Boucherville, Quebec. The RONA inc. network operates or services some 450 corporate and affiliated dealer stores under the Lowe's, RONA, Reno-Depot, and Dick's Lumber banners. With a long and rich history, RONA inc. supports Canadians in their home improvement and construction projects since 1939. To achieve this, the company relies on a team of 26,000 employees, to whom it strives to provide an inclusive workplace where everyone is invited to contribute. RONA inc. is one of the Montreal region Top Employers since 2021. As a result of its ongoing efforts in sustainable development, the company was also awarded the Strategie de developpement durable Mercury in 2022 and is recognized as one of Canada's Greenest Employers. To learn more about the company, visit the website www.ronainc.ca.

About Mediacorp Canada Inc.

Founded in 1992, Mediacorp Canada Inc. is the nation's largest publisher of employment periodicals. Since 1999, the Toronto-based publisher has managed the Canada's Top 100 Employers project, which includes 18 regional and special-interest editorial competitions that reach over millions of Canadians annually through a variety of magazine and newspaper partners, including The Globe and Mail. Mediacorp also manages Eluta.ca, one of the largest job search engines in Canada. They reach over two millions of job seekers annually and features editorial reviews from the Canada's Top 100 Employers project.

SOURCE RONA inc.

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DOWNERS GROVE, Ill., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Rotary, part of Vehicle Service Group (VSG) and Dover (NYSE: DOV), today announced the launch of its revolutionary line of fully automatic air conditioning diagnostic and recharging equipment.

The Rotary R3AC Series A/C recharging machines are an innovative vehicle diagnostic tool, designed to automatically service the refrigerant in vehicle air conditioning systems. Rotary's new shop equipment product line provides North American automotive service professionals with a quick, efficient and cost-effective way to recover, recycle and recharge R134a and R1234yf refrigerant gases.

Three models are now available:

The single-gas R3AC50-A (R134a refrigerant compatible)

The single-gas R3AC60-YF (R1234yf refrigerant compatible)

The dual-gas R3AC80-AYF (both R134a and R1234yf compatible) that automatically purges between gas changes

"These A/C recharging machines are the new standard in efficiency and convenience for automotive repair shops and their customers," said Doug Spiller, Director of Product Management for VSG Americas. "We are excited to equip shops with a tool that will help them extend their service capabilities and obtain greater revenues  just in time for A/C season."

Powered by TEXA, a global leader in the design, development, and production of multibrand vehicle diagnostic tools, exhaust gas analyzers, air conditioning recharge stations and telediagnostic devices, the Rotary A/C machines deliver extremely fast process times with detailed vehicle data subscriptions. With the increased focus on productivity and uptime, service centers will be able to charge more vehicles annually.

Each machine is Wi-Fi enabled, updates automatically and can connect to peripheral devices such as smartphones and printers. Remote monitoring is available through a mobile app, which allows technicians to focus on other tasks while the A/C machine is in operation. Like Rotary's legendary vehicle lifts, the new A/C machines are supported by Rotary's nationwide service network and industry-leading warranty.

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With the automatic A/C service machines, Rotary will be able to support repair work further inside the vehicle and serve the shop in a new and innovative way. For more information on Rotary's new line of A/C repair solutions, visit rotarylift.com/accart.

About Rotary:

Rotary is the leading manufacturer of vehicle lifts and wheel service products for use in professional automotive service, commercial truck and transit industries. In 1925, Peter Lunati designed, built and patented the first fully hydraulic automotive lift and gave rise to a new industry. Rotary's pursuit of innovation has built the world's most trusted lifts, designed to increase shop efficiency and productivity. Today, there are more Rotary Lift products used in vehicle repair facilities around the world than any other brand. Rotary is part of Vehicle Service Group, an operating company of Dover Corporation's Engineered Products sector. For more information, visit rotarylift.com.

About Vehicle Service Group:

As an operating company of the Dover Corporation, Vehicle Service Group (VSG) offers the world's premier brands in vehicle lifting, wheel service, collision repair and aftermarket OEM equipment. With over 95 years of experience, we design, test, manufacture, sell and support our products with one thing in mind, our customer. For more information, visit vsgdover.com.

About Dover:

Dover is a diversified global manufacturer and solutions provider with annual revenue of over $8 billion. We deliver innovative equipment and components, consumable supplies, aftermarket parts, software and digital solutions, and support services through five operating segments: Engineered Products, Clean Energy & Fueling, Imaging & Identification, Pumps & Process Solutions and Climate & Sustainability Technologies. Dover combines global scale with operational agility to lead the markets we serve. Recognized for our entrepreneurial approach for over 65 years, our team of over 25,000 employees takes an ownership mindset, collaborating with customers to redefine what's possible. Headquartered in Downers Grove, Illinois, Dover trades on the New York Stock Exchange under "DOV." Additional information is available at dovercorporation.com .

Vehicle Service Group Contact:

David Fischmer

(812) 265-9543

dfischmer@vsgdover.com

Dover Media Contact:

Adrian Sakowicz, VP, Communications

(630) 743-5039

asakowicz@dovercorp.com

Dover Investor Contact:

Jack Dickens, Senior Director, Investor Relations

(630) 743-2566

jdickens@dovercorp.com

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SOURCE Dover
MY SALON Suite Exhibiting at the 2023 Multi-Unit Franchising Conference

CARROLLTON, Texas, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- MY SALON Suite , a salon suite franchise focused on providing stylists and beauticians a personal space to build their business and the beauty industry's future, will be exhibiting at the upcoming 23rd annual Multi-Unit Franchising Conference at Caesars Forum in Las Vegas on April 25  28, 2023 (Booth #1021) and hosting a private dinner with limited seating for qualified candidates. The annual conference is the premier event targeting multi-unit franchisees in the food, hospitality, retail and personal care service sectors such as hair, massage, botox, etc.

MY SALON Suite (PRNewsfoto/MY SALON Suite)

"As MY SALON Suite targets nationwide expansion, the Multi-Unit conference is the ideal place to showcase our franchise opportunities and connect with established franchisees," said Mark Jameson, chief development officer. "MY SALON Suite's semi-absentee model, with no on-site employees, is ideal for multi-unit and multi-brand franchisees looking to diversify their portfolio. Following a year of record growth for the brand, we look forward to continuing to open in new markets across the country."

MY SALON Suite is currently seeking qualified franchisees with a focus on existing multi-unit franchisees. The semi-absentee model offers franchise owners the opportunity to expand and diversify while focusing their attention on other areas. MY SALON Suite is continuing expansion following a record year for the brand, which opened 42 franchise locations in 2022 to reach a milestone of over 265 locations, with plans to continue to grow the brand both domestically and internationally this year.

"When we were initially looking to diversify, we wanted something that was less employee driven but very impactful, and that's why we loved the MY SALON Suite model," said Aaron Gillaspie, MY SALON Suite franchisee with 17 locations in markets across the United States. "At the end of the day, when you buy into a franchise, you're buying into the people who are running it and the processes they have. The ambition and passion the MY SALON Suite team has for helping people and growing this concept is unlike any other."

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The initial investment for a MY SALON Suite franchise is approximately $664,738  $1,479,827, including a $50,000 franchise fee. Ideal candidates have a net worth of $1.5 million, of which $500K is liquid. Additionally, MY SALON Suite 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 $25,000.

For more information about the MY SALON Suite franchise, visit https://www.mysalonsuite.com/franchise , or contact Scott Krupa at scott.krupa@propelledbrands.com or 214-346-5650.

About Suite Management Franchising

Suite Management Franchising, the parent company of MY SALON Suite, is a salon suite franchise created for entrepreneurial-spirited individuals interested in diversifying their portfolio while living a semi-absentee lifestyle. Founded to inspire and empower the modern-day salon owner, the company offers a unique opportunity for a diverse range of beauty and health professionals to run their businesses successfully. Salon members are provided ongoing training, support, and a strong referral network to help their business generate a six-figure income. Featured in Entrepreneur magazine's "Top New Franchise" list, the brand is widely recognized for its rapid expansion and noteworthy success. A strategic alliance partnership with Propelled Brands, the nation's largest family-owned collection of salons, continues to propel the brand's growth. With 265 locations in 35 states across the United States and Canada, the franchise concept plans to add 200 franchise partners and 500 salons in the next three years.

For more information about Suite Management Franchising, visit mysalonsuite.com/franchise. To learn more about MY SALON Suite and Salon Plaza, visit mysalonsuite.com and salonplaza.com .

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SOURCE MY SALON Suite
WASHINGTON, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- SCORE , mentors to America's small businesses, will co-host the 2023 National Small Business Week Virtual Summit with the U.S. Small Business Administration on May 2-3. The free, two-day online event will celebrate the hard-earned success of small businesses throughout the country, while also sharing best practices for utilizing technology and other tools to facilitate growth.

The National Small Business Week Virtual Summit is a free, two-day online event co-hosted by SCORE and the U.S. Small Business Administration.

"SCORE is proud to honor the accomplishments of America's entrepreneurs and join the SBA in hosting the National Small Business Week Virtual Summit. We invite all entrepreneurs to participate in this important event no matter what their business stage  from startup to years of experience  to learn critical insights to fuel future success," said SCORE CEO Bridget Weston.

"National Small Business Week celebrates the resilience, innovation and economic power of America's small businesses and innovative startups," said SBA Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman. "I'm thrilled to showcase our highly-impactful entrepreneurs who build prosperity in their communities while strengthening our nation's global competitiveness."

Expert-led sessions offer timely information on critical topics including:

Simple Steps to Write and Follow a Sustainable Business Plan that Ensures You Achieve Your Goals

Tapping Tech to Elevate Performance, Productivity and Profitability

Small Business Growth in the Age of AI: A Conversation on Trends, Opportunities and Challenges

Cybersecurity & Your Small Business

Future-Proofing Your Small Business for Long-Term Success

The Virtual Summit will also offer small business owners key insights on the current economy and how to plan for the year ahead, access to business planning and funding resources, networking with fellow entrepreneurs and live Q&A with SCORE's experienced business mentors.

"I'm attending the summit because I see a valuable opportunity to meet like-minded business people and learn new business strategies and expertise," said SCORE client Renata Nunez, CEO of Panthera Candleworks in Columbus, Ind. "I'm looking forward to expanding my network and sharing with others what my company is about and how I can provide value to other business owners."

Story continues

To register or view the full agenda: National Small Business Week Virtual Summit .

About SCORE:

Since 1964, SCORE has helped more than 11 million entrepreneurs start, grow or successfully exit a business. SCORE's 10,000 volunteers provide free, expert mentoring, resources and education in all 50 U.S. states and territories. Visit SCORE at www.score.org .

Funded [in part] through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.

CONTACT:

SCORE

800-925-8458

media@score.org

Visit SCORE's media resources to be connected with expert small business interview sources and news updates.

Since 1964, SCORE has helped more than 11 million entrepreneurs start, grow or successfully exit a business. SCORE's 10,000 volunteers provide free, expert mentoring, resources and education in all 50 U.S. states and territories. (PRNewsfoto/SCORE)

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SOURCE SCORE
TORONTO, April 18, 2023 /CNW/ - Scotia Global Asset Management announced today the April 2023 cash distributions for the Scotia ETFs listed on the NEO Exchange, which pay on a monthly basis. Unitholders of record on April 25, 2023 will receive a cash distribution payable on May 2, 2023, as noted below.

Scotiabank Logo (CNW Group/Scotiabank)

Scotia ETF name Ticker symbol Cash distribution

per unit ($) Scotia Canadian Bond Index Tracker ETF SITB 0.035 Scotia Responsible Investing Canadian Bond Index ETF SRIB 0.034

For more information on the Scotia ETFs, please visit here.

Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with investments in exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Please read the prospectus before investing. The securities held by the ETFs can change at any time without notice. Investments in ETFs are not guaranteed, their values change frequently and past performance may not be repeated.

About Scotia Global Asset Management

Scotia Global Asset Management includes 1832 Asset Management L.P., a limited partnership, the general partner of which is wholly owned by Scotiabank. Scotia Global Asset Management offers a range of wealth management solutions, including mutual funds, ETFs, and investment solutions for private clients, institutions and managed asset programs.

About Scotiabank

Scotiabank is a leading bank in the Americas. Guided by our purpose: "for every future", we help our customers, their families and their communities achieve success through a broad range of advice, products and services, including personal and commercial banking, wealth management and private banking, corporate and investment banking, and capital markets. With a team of over 90,000 employees and assets of over $1.3 trillion (as at January 31, 2023), Scotiabank trades on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: BNS) and New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: BNS). For more information, please visit http://www.scotiabank.com and follow us on Twitter @Scotiabank.

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SOURCE Scotiabank

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Terraform Labs co-founder and CEO Do Kwon has suffered a legal blow as a U.S. judge has denied his request to prevent the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) from obtaining certain documents related to the firms operations.

The documents in question are being sought from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), per a Bloomberg report.

According to court records, the U.S. District Court for the Southern District Judge Jed Rakoff last Friday rejected the request made by Do Kwon and Terraform to compel the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to withdraw its demand for documents held by the Singaporean regulator and the defendants.

Luna Foundation Guard, a fund established to maintain the value of the companys algorithmic stablecoin Terra USD at $1, is also involved in the case.

SEC Sues Terraform Labs and Founder Do Kwon For Securities Fraud

The collapse of the Terra ecosystem last May was among the key factors that contributed to the crypto industrys slide into its crypto winter, with prices of Bitcoin and other major altcoins plunging and several established players, including the crypto hedge fund Three Arrows Capital (3AC), going bankrupt.

The SEC sued Singapore-based Terraform Labs and CEO Do Kwon in February this year, accusing them of securities fraud related to the companys algorithmic stablecoin Terra USD and its sister token LUNA.

The agency claims Terraform Labs and Do Kwon marketed crypto asset securities to investors seeking to profit from investing in Terra UST and related Terra products claiming that the tokens would increase in value.

Do Kwon Arrested in Montenegro, Says Countrys Minister of Interior

The move followed the opening of an investigation into the collapse of Terra and whether its stablecoin violated federal securities regulations in June 2022.

After months on the run, Do Kwon was arrested last month in Montenegro, with the Balkan nations police later confirming that both the U.S. and South Korea have requested the extradition of Terra co-founder.
James Quincey Has Not Been Able to Resist Placing Company in Middle of Divisive Issues

Falls Church, VA --News Direct-- National Legal & Policy Center

The annual meeting for The Coca-Cola Company is next Tuesday, April 25, and shareholders will be asked to vote on a proposal that would increase accountability for the companys Chairman and CEO, James Quincey.

National Legal and Policy Center is sponsoring Proposal No. 8 on the companys proxy statement, which requests the Board of Directors to require the two powerful roles now occupied by Quincey to be split between two individuals. NLPC argues that Quincey has inappropriately engaged the company in multiple divisive political issues that are not in the fiduciary interest of Coca-Cola or its shareholders. As an investor in the company, NLPC has filed a report to the Securities and Exchange Commission that explains its rationale for appointing an equally authoritative counterpart to keep Quinceys left-leaning political excursions in check.

James Quincey, invoking the name of Coca-Cola, has repeatedly weighed in on issues like opposing the Georgia election integrity law and in support of Black Lives Matter, pointing out the alleged racial sins of America, said Paul Chesser, director of the Corporate Integrity Project for NLPC. His careless rhetoric only harmed the companys reputation, since 2022 voter turnout in the Peach State elections was extremely high. Meanwhile, Quincey has highlighted Coca-Colas hypocrisy by doing extensive business in China, while saying nothing about the communist governments genocide and enslavement practices.

In its report to the SEC, NLPC points out several examples of Quinceys leadership failures, including:

entering Coca-Cola in a multi-company effort as co-signer of a letter that opposed plans by the Department of Health and Human Services in 2018 to restore definitions of sex to remove the term identity, for the purposes of Title IX enforcement of gender discrimination in civil rights law;

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signing the Companys name to a 2019 letter in support of the so-called Equality Act, which would have added sexual orientation and gender identity to race, color, religion, sex, or national origin discrimination protections in the Civil Rights Act of 1964  which would have squashed almost all other rights and freedoms Americans possess, including speech, association, privacy, and property rights;

held mandatory anti-racist training in 2021 that instructed employees to try to be less white, which included recommendations to be less oppressive, be less arrogant, be less certain, be less defensive, be less ignorant, be more humble, listen, believe, break with apathy, (and) break with white solidarity;

providing $2.5 million in grants for left-leaning organizations that included $500,000 to the Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation, a deeply racist, anti-law enforcement organization that spent millions of dollars in corporate donations to enrich its leaders and their family members, and purchased several multi-million dollar mansions for personal use;

engaged Coca-Cola in a multi-company letter-writing campaign to urge a permanent legislative solution to enable (illegal immigration) Dreamers who are currently living, working, and contributing to our communities to continue doing so  a policy many Americans characterize as amnesty;

opposed the Heartbeat Bill when it passed the Georgia Senate in 2019, signing a letter of objection with other businesses. The bill prohibited abortions once a fetal heartbeat is detected, with exceptions for cases that involve rape, incest, and saving the life of the mother.

NLPCs report to the SEC also notes that since Quincey immersed Coca-Cola in controversial political issues, the companys stock performance has lagged behind its chief competitors (like PepsiCo), when he should have been focused on his fiduciary priorities.

Coca-Cola, like almost every company that combines the power of chairman and CEO in one person, claims they do so to maximize returns for shareholders, Chesser said. But the opposite is usually the case. The board needs a stronger counterpart to put the kibosh on Mr. Quinceys political activities.

Founded in 1991, NLPC promotes ethics in public life and government accountability through research, investigation, education, and legal action.

###

For more information or to schedule an interview with Paul Chesser, contact Dan Rene at 202-329-8357 or drene@nlpc.org.

Please visit http://www.nlpc.org.

Contact Details

National Legal and Policy Center

Dan Rene

+1 202-329-8357

drene@nlpc.org

Company Website

http://www.nlpc.org

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INVL Baltic Real Estate

The General Shareholders Meeting of INVL Baltic Real Estate (hereinafter  the Company) held on 18 April 2023 decided to approve the proposed dividend allocation of EUR 0.09 per share for the year 2022 (the total amount of dividends allocation amounts to EUR 0.725 million).

The Company notes that dividends will be paid out and the dividend payment procedure for 2022 will be published within one month of the General Shareholders Meeting that approved the decision to allocate the dividends. Persons, who will be shareholders of the Company at the end of 3 May 2023, the tenth day after the General Shareholders Meeting to approve the resolution to allocate part of the Companys profit for the payment of dividends, are entitled to receive dividends.

The ex-date is 2 May 2023. From that date, the new owner of the shares of INVL Baltic Real Estate, ISIN code LT0000127151, which were acquired on the stock exchange with a settlement cycle of T+2, is not entitled to dividends for the year 2022.

Furthermore, the General Meeting of Shareholders of the Company approved the main terms and conditions under which the repurchase of the Company's own shares will be carried out.

Additional information:

The real estate investment company INVL Baltic Real Estate will pay its shareholders dividends of EUR 725,000 for 2022, an allocation of EUR 0.09 per share. The payment of dividends was approved at the annual general meeting of the companys shareholders on 18 April.

According to Vytautas Baksinskas, the real estate fund manager at INVL Asset Management, which manages INVL Baltic Real Estate, the companys good performance and the growing value of its properties make it possible to allocate a part of the profit that was earned to dividends.

The companys dividend policy envisages paying out at least EUR 0.09 per share every year.

The dividends will be paid out within a month. Persons will have a right to receive them who are shareholders of INVL Baltic Real Estate at the end of business on 3 May this year. The dividend yield is about 4%.

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Last year INVL Baltic Real Estate had a consolidated net profit of EUR 4.2 million, or 24% more than in 2021. Its consolidated revenue grew 25% in the year to EUR 3.4 million. The value of the companys investment property holdings grew 23% during 2022 and totalled EUR 36.4 million at the end of December.

The 18 April shareholders meeting, in addition to approving the companys financial statements and profit distribution for 2022, also approved a procedure for own-share acquisitions and voted on other matters.

If needed, INVL Baltic Real Estate will use a reserve of EUR 2.5 million to buy back its own shares, with a time limit for any buybacks of 18 months from the date of the shareholders decision. The maximum purchase price per share is INVL Baltic Real Estates last published net asset value per share, while the minimum purchase price is EUR 1.45.

About INVL Baltic Real Estate

INVL Baltic Real Estate owns real estate in Vilnius and Riga: office buildings in the Old Town of the Lithuanian capital on Vilniaus Street and in Siaures Miestelis, and the 55-ha Dommo Logistics and Industrial Park by the juncture of highway A8 and the A5 Riga bypass road. The companys properties had occupancies of 98% to 100% at the end of December 2022.

INVL Baltic Real Estate currently owns properties with a total area of 28,000 sq. m. and a value of EUR 36.4 million.

Since its launch as a collective investment undertaking (on 22 December 2016), INVL Baltic Real Estate has been one of the Baltic real estate funds open to retail investors with the highest stable returns. The fund operates as a closed-end investment company. The company is managed by INVL, the leading investment management and life insurance group in the Baltic region. INVL Baltic Real Estate will operate as a closed-end investment company until 2046, with extension possible for a further 20 years.

The person authorized to provide additional information:

Real Estate Fund Manager of Management Company

Vytautas Baksinskas

E-mail vytautas.baksinskas@invl.com




Societe Generale

AVAILABILITY OR CONSULTATION OF THE INFORMATION RELATING TO THE COMBINED GENERAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS DATED 23 MAY 2023



Press release

Paris, 18 April 2023

The Combined General Meeting of shareholders will be held on 23 May 2023, at 4 pm, at the Maison de la Mutualite - 24 rue Saint-Victor - 75005 Paris.

The notice of meeting and the convening notice relating to this Meeting were respectively published in the Bulletins des Annonces Legales Obligatoires (BALO) dated 10 March and 17 April 2023.

These notices, the convening brochure as well as the documents and information mentioned in Article R. 22-10-23 of the French Commercial Code intended to be presented to the Meeting are now (regarding the information mentioned in Article R. 225-83 of the French Commercial Code) or will be made available to the shareholders on Societe Generales website at the following address:

https://www.societegenerale.com/en/societe-generale-group/governance/annual-general-meeting .

The documents to be made available to the shareholders as part of this Meeting, may be consulted by the shareholders, in accordance with the conditions provided by the applicable regulations, at the administrative office of Societe Generale, 17 cours Valmy - 92972 La Defense Cedex (France), by sending a request by email to the electronic address General.meeting@socgen.com.



Press contacts :

Jean-Baptiste Froville_+33 1 58 98 68 00_ jean-baptiste.froville@socgen.com

Fanny Rouby_+33 1 57 29 11 12_ fanny.rouby@socgen.com

Societe Generale



Societe Generale is one of the leading European financial services groups. Based on a diversified and integrated banking model, the Group combines financial strength and proven expertise in innovation with a strategy of sustainable growth. Committed to the positive transformations of the worlds societies and economies, Societe Generale and its teams seek to build, day after day, together with its clients, a better and sustainable future through responsible and innovative financial solutions.



Active in the real economy for over 150 years, with a solid position in Europe and connected to the rest of the world, Societe Generale has over 117,000 members of staff in 66 countries and supports on a daily basis 25 million individual clients, businesses and institutional investors around the world by offering a wide range of advisory services and tailored financial solutions. The Group is built on three complementary core businesses:

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French Retail Banking with the SG bank, resulting from the merger of the two Societe Generale and Credit du Nord networks, and Boursorama. Each offers a full range of financial services with omnichannel products at the cutting edge of digital innovation;

International Retail Banking, Insurance and Financial Services, with networks in Africa, Central and Eastern Europe and specialised businesses that are leaders in their markets;

Global Banking and Investor Solutions, which offers recognised expertise, key international locations and integrated solutions.







Societe Generale is included in the principal socially responsible investment indices: DJSI (Europe), FTSE4Good (Global and Europe), Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index, Refinitiv Diversity and Inclusion Index, Euronext Vigeo (Europe and Eurozone), STOXX Global ESG Leaders indexes, and the MSCI Low Carbon Leaders Index (World and Europe).

In case of doubt regarding the authenticity of this press release, please go to the end of Societe Generales newsroom page where official Press Releases sent by Societe Generale can be certified using blockchain technology. A link will allow you to check the documents legitimacy directly on the web page.



For more information, you can follow us on Twitter @societegenerale or visit our website societegenerale.com.

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(Bloomberg) -- SpaceX is aiming to launch its next-generation Starship rocket on April 20, the second attempt for the groundbreaking flight after a pressurization issue upended the companys initial test.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Elon Musks closely held company announced the new date in a tweet on Monday, hours after postponing a planned inaugural test flight for the fully assembled vehicle. Minutes before scheduled liftoff on Monday, SpaceX scrubbed the flight, citing a pressurization issue. Officials had said they would need at least 48 hours before trying again.

Musk had flagged a frozen pressure valve as an issue that might delay the launch in a tweet earlier in the day. But SpaceX made no reference to the issue in a statement about the new target date for sending Starship aloft.

The new launch window will open at 8:28 a.m. local time in Boca Chica, Texas, where its launch pad is located, and closes one hour and two minutes later, SpaceX said.

The uncrewed mission is a critical step in SpaceXs plan to send humans into deep space. The company, formally known as Space Exploration Technologies Corp., aims to send the massive rocket in a partial orbit of Earth for the first time, paving the way for later missions to the moon and Mars.

Read more: Starships Launch Is SpaceXs Key First Step Toward Mars

Delays  whether because of weather, technical issues or something else  are common in space launches.

The latest postponement adds to a timeline that has already been almost two decades in the making: As early as 2005, Musk alluded to plans for a giant rocket codenamed BFR. More recently, the company has been testing components of the rocket system in preparation for this launch, its first attempt to reach space.

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Musks 420 History

The timing of the second attempt on April 20 appears to be a coincidence, although Musk is no stranger to the number 420, which is associated with marijuana. He famously once claimed to have funding secured to take Tesla Inc. private at $420 a share. Earlier this year testifying in a lawsuit stemming from that claim, Musk said there is some karma around 420, prompting laughter in the courtroom.

Musk serves as chief executive officer for both SpaceX and Tesla.

Starship was conceived to bring people  including NASA astronauts  and cargo such as satellites into Earths orbit and beyond. The rocket is more powerful than any previous crewed spacecraft and taller than the Saturn V. The launch vehicle system also has been designed to be fully reusable, which SpaceX promises will reduce costs.

When the launch attempt happens, the Super Heavy booster rocket is expected to break away from Starship after an initial climb to space and do a controlled dive into the Gulf of Mexico. If everything goes as planned, the Starship spacecraft will continue onward and arc through space completing almost a full lap around the Earth. It will then land in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Hawaii.

Musk tried on Sunday to temper expectations, citing a number of ways that things could go wrong, including comparing the engines to live grenades. On a Twitter audio livestream, the billionaire entrepreneur said he had one overriding goal for the attempt: Just dont blow up the launchpad.

(Updates with launch window timing from fourth paragraph; Adds background.)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Stereotaxis, Inc.

ST. LOUIS, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Stereotaxis (NYSE: STXS), a pioneer and global leader in surgical robotics for minimally invasive endovascular intervention, today announced that it will release financial results for its 2023 first quarter on Tuesday, May 9, 2023 before the open of the U.S. financial markets. The Company will host a conference call and webcast at 10 a.m. EST that day to discuss the Companys results and corporate developments.



What: Stereotaxis first quarter 2023 financial results conference call When: Tuesday, May 9, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. EST (7:00 a.m. PST) Dial In Number: To access the live call, dial 800-715-9871 (US and Canada) or 1-646-307-1963 (International) and give the participant pass code 8054202. Webcast: To access the live and replay webcast, please visit the investor relations section of Stereotaxis website at http://ir.stereotaxis.com/. Call Replay: A phone replay of the call will be available for one month beginning approximately four hours following the end of the call. To request access for a replay of the conference call, please click here.

About Stereotaxis

Stereotaxis (NYSE: STXS) is a pioneer and global leader in innovative surgical robotics for minimally invasive endovascular intervention. Its mission is the discovery, development and delivery of robotic systems, instruments, and information solutions for the interventional laboratory. These innovations help physicians provide unsurpassed patient care with robotic precision and safety, expand access to minimally invasive therapy, and enhance the productivity, connectivity, and intelligence in the operating room. Stereotaxis technology has been used to treat over 100,000 patients across the United States, Europe, Asia, and elsewhere. For more information, please visit www.stereotaxis.com.

Investor Contacts:

David L. Fischel

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

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Kimberly Peery

Chief Financial Officer

314-678-6100

Investors@Stereotaxis.com




Achieves Sell and Service Expertise in Cloud and Sell Expertise in the License & Hardware Track in Public Sector

HERNDON, Va., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Systems Intelligence, an Akima Company, today announced that it has achieved Sell and Service Expertise in Cloud and Sell Expertise in License & Hardware. An SBA-certified 8(a) Alaska Native Small Business and a member of Oracle PartnerNetwork (OPN), Systems Intelligence achieved this Expertise by meeting a comprehensive set of requirements that are based on the needs and priorities of Oracle customers.

Systems Intelligence, An Akima Company

Expertise is a core tenet of the modernized Oracle PartnerNetwork (OPN) program and allows Oracle partners to highlight their capabilities in a focused area. Ultimately, Expertise is designed to make it easy for customers to identify partners that can deliver quality results and minimize risk for their specific needs as they adopt Oracle technology.

To achieve Sell Expertise a partner must demonstrate their experience and success in the resell of specific Oracle software licenses, hardware products, or Oracle Cloud technology within a defined geographic region. Achieving Service Expertise requires demonstration of experience and success implementing, deploying and/or managing a specific Oracle Cloud product/service area. Learn more about Expertise, including viewing the complete Expertise Catalog, at www.oracle.com/partnernetwork/expertise.

As part of the Akima portfolio of companies, Systems Intelligence draws from 20 years of Oracle experience, providing excellent service that address public sector customers' IT modernization initiatives. System Intelligence's consultative process offers critical insights, anticipates challenges and delivers mission-focused solutions.

"Systems Intelligence's relationship with Oracle builds upon established experience and past performance across Akima. With this achievement, I'm looking forward to expanding the value we bring to our customers," said Juvy McCarthy, President of Akima's Technology Solutions and Products Group.

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"We are excited to support our federal customers with innovative Oracle solutions that meet their mission-critical needs and offer a streamlined procurement path," said Mary Colville, General Manager of Systems Intelligence.

About Systems Intelligence

Systems Intelligence is an SBA-certified 8(a) company and wholly owned subsidiary of Akima, an Alaska Native Corporation, providing agile, innovative, and trusted IT solutions to the federal government and federal integrator community. Our capabilities allow customers to implement and evolve IT infrastructures to achieve, maintain and advance functionality, efficiency, security, and compliance. To learn more visit www.systemsintelligencellc.com.

About Oracle PartnerNetwork

Oracle PartnerNetwork (OPN) is Oracle's partner program designed to enable partners to accelerate the transition to cloud and drive superior customer business outcomes. The OPN program allows partners to engage with Oracle through track(s) aligned to how they go to market: Cloud Build for partners that provide products or services built on or integrated with Oracle Cloud; Cloud Sell for partners that resell Oracle Cloud technology; Cloud Service for partners that implement, deploy and manage Oracle Cloud Services; and License & Hardware for partners that build, service or sell Oracle software licenses or hardware products. Customers can expedite their business objectives with OPN partners who have achieved Expertise in a product family or cloud service. To learn more visit: http://www.oracle.com/partnernetwork

Trademarks

Oracle, Java and MySQL are registered trademarks of Oracle Corporation.

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SOURCE Akima
The online platform received appreciation from the Prime Minister at the Youth Empowerment Forum 2023 for its unique teaching philosophy

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Award winning online English teaching platform 51Talk is on a mission to solidify its presence in Malaysia. Entering the local online education territory in March 2022, they have already established their footing in the country through their flagship AirClass (AC) teaching system  a first-of-its kind platform which allows young students to learn the language through real-time translation, taught by teachers from anywhere around the globe.

The 51Talk Team at the Youth Empowerment Forum 2023.

Inspired by the pressing need for improvement in conversational English amongst Chinese students, the brand's mission is to empower the next generation with the ability to effectively communicate with the world without a language barrier. The courses follow the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) international standard.

51Talk's founder and CEO, Jack Huang shares: "In this fast-paced world where global communication primarily happens in English, non-native speakers often feel left behind when they are not well versed in the language. Hence why it is an integral part of the childhood curriculum in many countries around the world."

The platform, which was a participant in the prestigious Youth Empowerment Forum Malaysia 2023, garnered attention from the Prime Minister Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim due to its distinctive and fun approach to teaching.

"Traditional teaching methods can become overbearing and difficult for young children, especially when they are not accustomed to conversing in English. Our method focuses on a one-on-one, short but frequent lesson approach, which reinforces concepts at regular intervals to help children retain new information. At the same time it's made to be entertaining with interactive sessions, because learning does not need to be devoid of fun!" adds Huang.

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Their approach was also lauded by other notable attendees at the forum  including Selangor Crown Prince Tengku Amir Shah Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, Malaysia's Communications and Digital Minister YB Fahmi Fadzil, Muar Member of Parliament YB Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman, and squash legend Datuk Nicol Ann David. They noted that the brand's vision to empower Malaysia's next generation with English communication skills is in fact in alignment with the core values of Malaysia Madani.

Notably, they were the only private online education company that received an invitation to attend the forum and drew interest from numerous strategic partners, including government entities, to explore future collaborations.

The brand has won consistent awards in the Asian education sector, and is hopeful about joining forces with more partners in the Malaysian market to create opportunities for youths to contribute meaningfully to nation-building.

To find out more about 51Talk or to sign up for a class, visit https://rb.gy/utaif

About 51Talk

51Talk is a prominent online English education platform that operates globally. Headquartered in Singapore, the company specialises in providing individual English lessons to young learners aged between 3 and 15 years old, as well as adults aged 18 and above. Established in 2011, 51Talk was listed on the New York Stock Exchange on June 10, 2016. To date, students from more than 50 countries and regions worldwide have taken over 100 million classes on the platform. These students have learned from more than 20,000 highly qualified teachers from countries in North America and the Philippines. With its diverse pool of experienced educators, 51Talk is committed to offering high quality language learning services to its global audience.

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SOURCE 51Talk
Becker's Hospital Review names Lara Klick a health system chief experience officer to know.

TAMPA, Fla., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- For her leadership and dedication to serving patients and families, Lara Klick, vice president of Patient Experience, Tampa General Hospital (TGH), has been named to Becker's Hospital Review's 2023 list of "50+ Health System Chief Experience Officers to Know." Chief experience professionals and patient experience professionals are interchangeable terms.

For her leadership and dedication to serving patients and families, Lara Klick, vice president of Patient Experience, Tampa General Hospital (TGH), has been named to Beckers Hospital Reviews 2023 list of 50+ Health System Chief Experience Officers to Know.

This is the second year that Becker's Hospital Review has honored Klick. She was named to the national digital and print publication's 2022 list of Outstanding Chief Experience Officers.

Honorees were selected by Becker's Hospital Review for their ability to balance the best interests of caregivers, patients and hospital leadership to improve and to deliver excellent care and patient experiences. A patient experience officer is a skilled communicator who advocates for respectful care for patients. They help ensure equitable care and cultural transformation among health care clinicians and staff through team member training, education, patient surveys, data analysis and a focus on patient experience best practices  all resulting in better patient outcomes.

"It's an honor to be recognized and this is possible because of the dedication and commitment of our Patient Experience team here at Tampa General," said Klick, who has more than two decades of expertise specializing in patient experience. "I'm so proud of our Patient Experience team and the extraordinary work they do to elevate patient care."

The Patient Experience team at Tampa General is dedicated to informing, educating and guiding hospital clinicians and support teams on best practices and methods to enhance compassionate communication with patients and their families with a focus on patient-centered care. The essence of patient-centered care includes support for:

Coordination, continuity, transition and integration of patient care

Collaborative care planning with the patient and their family

Respect for patients' values, preferences and expressed needs

Support for accessing care

Emotional support

Physical comfort

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"Tampa General's Patient Experience team is integral to ensuring patients are receiving care that is respectful of and responsive to individual patient preferences and needs and, above all, that they feel valued," said Tampa General Executive Vice President and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Peggy Duggan. "Lara and her team advocate for our patients, families and our Tampa General team members every day. She's an exceptional leader and much deserving of this national recognition."

Included among Tampa General's patient experience programs is its Patient Family Advisory Council (PFAC). The council is a diverse group of former patients or family members of patients who meet regularly to advise the academic medical center on patient experience from ways to enhance patient education and safety to providing feedback on facility design and patient accessibility. The council provides valuable insight that helps Tampa General's providers and staff better understand patient needs beyond clinical care.

Other ways Klick and the hospital's Patient Experience team dedicate themselves to understanding the patient voice include utilizing:

Patient surveys and analysis of patient data

"Power Hours" that bring together nurse leaders to share feedback and evidence-based health care best practices for reviewing patient status and care plans

Free, qualified language interpretation services and aides for patients in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act

Hospital chaplains to monitor the spiritual health of patients, their families and Tampa General team members

"Patient Experience in health care is internationally recognized as an important indicator of the quality of medical care," Klick said. "Tampa General and our Patient Experience team are committed to making sure that people feel safe and comfortable when in our care and that we continue to grow and integrate new methods and ways of communicating that enrich the patient journey."

The complete 2023 list of 50+ Health System Chief Experience Officers to Know may be viewed here.

ABOUT TAMPA GENERAL HOSPITAL

Tampa General Hospital, a 1,040-bed, not-for-profit, academic medical center, is one of the largest hospitals in America and delivers world-class care as the region's only center for Level l trauma and comprehensive burn care. Tampa General Hospital is the highest-ranked hospital in the market in U.S. News & World Report's 2022-23 Best Hospitals, and is tied as the third highest-ranked hospital in Florida, with seven specialties ranking among the best programs in the United States. Tampa General Hospital has been designated as a model of excellence by the 2022 Fortune/Merative 100 Top Hospitals list. The academic medical center's commitment to growing and developing its team members is recognized by two prestigious Forbes magazine rankings  first nationally in the 2022 America's Best Employers for Women and sixth out of 100 Florida companies in the 2022 America's Best Employers by State. Tampa General is the safety net hospital for the region, caring for everyone regardless of their ability to pay, and in fiscal year 2021, provided a net community benefit worth more than $224.5 million in the form of health care for underinsured patients, community education, and financial support to community health organizations in Tampa Bay. It is one of the nation's busiest adult solid organ transplant centers and is the primary teaching hospital for the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine. With six medical helicopters, Tampa General Hospital transports critically injured or ill patients from 23 surrounding counties to receive the advanced care they need. Tampa General houses a nationally accredited comprehensive stroke center, and its 32-bed Neuroscience, Intensive Care Unit is the largest on the West Coast of Florida. It also is home to the Jennifer Leigh Muma 82-bed neonatal intensive care unit, and a nationally accredited rehabilitation center. Tampa General Hospital's footprint includes 17 Tampa General Medical Group Primary Care offices, TGH Family Care Center Kennedy, TGH Brandon Healthplex, TGH Virtual Health, and 21 TGH Imaging powered by Tower outpatient radiology centers throughout Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas and Palm Beach counties. Tampa Bay area residents also receive world-class care from the TGH Urgent Care powered by Fast Track network of clinics. To see a medical care professional live anytime, anywhere on a smartphone, tablet or computer, visit Virtual Health | Tampa General Hospital (tgh.org). As one of the largest hospitals in the country, Tampa General Hospital is the first in Florida to partner with GE Healthcare and open a clinical command center that provides real-time situational awareness to improve and better coordinate patient care at a lower cost. For more information, go to www.tgh.org.

Media Contact: Beth Hardy, APR

Senior Communications Specialist

(813) 844-7322 (direct)

(813) 510-6363 (cell)

ehardy@tgh.org

Tampa General Hospital logo. (PRNewsFoto/Tampa General Hospital)

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SOURCE Tampa General Hospital
HANOI, Vietnam & TEL AVIV, Israel, April 18, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Vietnam Technological and Commercial Joint Stock Bank ("Techcombank") today announced a new partnership with Personetics, the global leader in financial data-driven personalization and customer engagement for financial services, to introduce artificial intelligence (AI)-powered money management capabilities.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230417005473/en/

Techcombank and Personetics partnership (Graphic: Business Wire)

The cost-of-living crisis has been impacting consumers in Vietnam and around the world. In a recent survey of 5000 banking customers conducted by Personetics, 56% were "very concerned" about how rising costs are affecting their daily lives and impacting their finances. Vietnam is also facing the challenge of a "getting old before getting rich" population (*). Despite feeling secure in their current personal finances, 49.4% of participants in a survey conducted by Techcombank reported feeling stressed about their money management, due to a lack of: tools (26.5%); time and mental bandwidth (22.9%), knowledge (16.9%), and confidence in their income (44.6%).

To help address these concerns, Techcombank has joined forces with Personetics to provide its nearly 11M customers with a hyper-personalized banking experience that helps them achieve financial wellness. The partnership will bring new advanced money management capabilities to Techcombank mobile app that have been designed to create an automated, personalized, and independent financial journey for customers. They will offer capabilities designed to analyze customers financial transactions, aggregate bank accounts, and provide valuable insights about unexpected payments, excessive spending, and insufficient account balances. The technology also provides tailored suggestions on savings, asset growth, and card usage to help customers increase their financial resilience and achieve their goals independently.

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Pranav Seth, Chief Digital Officer of Techcombank

"At Techcombank, our mission is to revolutionize the way our customers manage their finances to achieve more in life. We believe that data-led insights and personalized financial solutions are the key to unlocking true financial wellness and will enable our customers to make smarter financial decisions that align with their unique goals and challenges. From identifying new savings opportunities to proactively monitoring spend, our ultimate goal is to empower our customers with unprecedented convenience and control. Our partnership with Personetics marks a significant milestone in our long-term vision of enhancing our customers' lives by making banking hyper-personal to each and every customer."

Huyen, a 30-year-old freelancer, manages her fluctuating income using Techcombank's AI-powered money management capabilities. The mobile app helps her track her expenses, invoices, and payments, and assists her in tracking her budget each month. It also provides her with personalized financial advice, such as which accounts to pay first and which investments to consider, enabling her to make informed decisions that optimize her finances.

Huyen shared her positive experience: "Techcombank's new features have been a game changer for me. With my income varying from month to month, it's been a challenge to stay on top of my finances. But the apps personalized recommendations on how to save more and invest wisely have been invaluable. I feel much more in control of my finances now."

Similarly, Minh, a busy executive in his 40s with a high income, uses the Techcombank Mobile to optimize his investments with ease. Not only is he able to track his expenses and investment portfolio while on the go and receive day-to-day insights, with the latest AI technology Minh can also receive personalized advice on saving money, reducing unnecessary expenses, and investing in products that align with his financial goals and risk appetite.

After deploying these advanced money management capabilities in a 3-week pilot program with 10,000 participating customers, the results were impressive. During that time, Techcombank saw substantial increases in the following metrics:

Savings balances increased 9%

Customer monthly average log-in rates  up from 14.2 times before the pilot period, to 77.3 times during the period.

Installments volume (up 43.7%) and total installment value (up 32%).

Santhosh Mahendiran, Chief Data and Analytics Officer, Techcombank

"Combining the power of our data and insights with Personetics provides us with a fantastic opportunity to tailor unique customer journeys. In a world where all products can be easily replicated, what ultimately differentiates every bank is how we use data & create unique experiences for each customer. At Techcombank, the customer is at the heart of everything we do. We believe that the strategic partnership with Personetics is a step towards 'Change banking, Change lives'."

David Sosna, Personetics Co-Founder & CEO

"We're thrilled to join forces with Techcombank, one of the most innovative banks in Vietnam and Southeast Asia. Their pilot phase results were extremely promising and surpassed expectations, indicating that Techcombank's customers are eager for the personalized insights and advice that only the Personetics platform can offer. We eagerly anticipate the next phase of our partnership, where we will continue to collaborate with Techcombank in enhancing the financial well-being of their customers and delivering substantial business outcomes."

The partnership between Techcombank and Personetics promises to transform Vietnam's banking industry. Techcombank is confident that by partnering with high-profile companies like Personetics, they can continue to develop innovative solutions to enhance their customers' banking experience.

About Techcombank

Vietnam Technological and Commercial Joint Stock Bank (Techcombank) is one of the largest joint stock banks in Vietnam, and a leading bank in Asia, with a vision to Change Banking, Change Lives. The Bank pursues a proven customer-centric strategy in providing a broad range of retail and corporate banking solutions and services to help financially empower its customers. Techcombank has over 10.8 million retail and corporate customers, which it serves through a market-leading digital banking platform and mobile app, and an extensive network of transaction service outlets at locations across Vietnam. The Banks ecosystem approach, co-created through partnerships in multiple key economic sectors, adds further scale and differentiation in one of the fastest growing markets in the world.

Techcombank is the only bank in Vietnam rated with Ba2 ("Stable" Outlook) for Baseline Credit Assessment (BCA) by Moodys. The Bank is also rated by S&P with BB  "Stable" Outlook. Techcombank is listed on the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange (HoSE) as TCB.

Recognized for excellence and innovation, Techcombank received the following awards in 2022:

"Best Bank in Vietnam"  Euromoney in 2022 (awarded for 3rd year);

"Domestic Retail Bank of the Year  Vietnam", and "Credit Card Initiative of the Year Vietnam"  Asian Banking & Finance in 2022 (ABF);

"Best Digital Consumer Bank"  Global Finance in 2022;

"Best Companies to work for in Asia"  HR Asia in 2022;

"Leading Partner Bank in Vietnam" 3Q22  Asia Development Bank (the third year in a row).

Explore feature on Techcombank Mobile: https://bit.ly/TCB-Mobile-App

About Personetics

Personetics is the global leader in financial data-driven personalization, customer engagement, and advanced money management capabilities for financial services. We are creating the future of "Self-Driving Finance," where banks can proactively act on their customers behalf to help improve their financial wellness and achieve financial goals.

Our industry-leading data analytics solutions harness customer financial transaction data to provide day-to-day actionable insights, personalized recommendations, product-based financial advice, and automated financial wellness programs. We offer solutions for mass market consumer banking, SMB banking, wealth management, and credit card issuers.

We drive business impact for financial institutions by improving relevant product targeting for accurate, efficient cross-selling and upselling. We help financial institutions deepen their customer relationships, increase core deposits and customer retention, expand share of wallet, and boost Customer Lifetime Value.

Personetics currently serves over 100 financial institutions spanning 32 global markets, reaching 130 million customers. We are backed by leading venture capital and private equity investors, with offices in New York, London, Tel Aviv, Singapore, Tokyo, Paris, Spain, and Australia.

Learn more at personetics.com

(*) Financial Literacy and Retirement Planning in Vietnam (2017) Do Thu Huong* VNU International School

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230417005473/en/

Contacts

Media

Michal Milgalter, Global Head of Marketing

michal.milgalter@personetics.com
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It seems almost every tech story these days is about the power, possibility, and danger of artificial intelligence.

And while the potential of AI often seems boundless in the way its biggest boosters present, the near-term business implications of AI are actually focused on one of tech's most entrenched and profitable products  search.

Google's parent company Alphabet (GOOG) saw shares fall nearly 3% on Monday after a New York Times report on Sunday said Samsung has weighed replacing Google Search with Microsoft's Bing (MSFT) on its devices.

The Times noted this deal put some $3 billion in annual revenue at risk for Google and reported a similar deal with Apple  worth closer to $20 billion  is up this year. Google's Search revenue totaled $162.5 billion in 2022.

Sign up for the Yahoo Finance Morning Brief here.

Reports suggesting 12% of a business's revenue is at risk rarely sit well with investors. Even if these deals are extended, the subtext is that renewals may come with terms more favorable to the device makers.

That Google's future profits from search might decline, of course, is not entirely new to investors. Two months ago, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella plainly stated this was going to be the industry's future.

"From now on, the [gross margin] of search is going to drop forever," Nadella said in an interview with the Financial Times in early February. Nadella added: "There is such margin in search, which for us is incremental. For Google it's not, they have to defend it all."

Following these comments, Alphabet stock fell 10%.

But the challenge to Google's Search business is only superficially taking place at the negotiating table. The bigger, more technical challenge is coming from AI.

Story continues

According to the Times' report, "the assumption inside Google" is that Microsoft's progress on new AI-powered search features is "the main reason" Samsung has considered changing its search partner. Microsoft's Bing is powered by Open AI after Microsoft invested $10 billion in the company back in January.

A report from "60 Minutes" which aired Sunday showed Google's Bard chatbot  which is the company's answer to Open AI's ChatGPT  offer summaries for five books. Unfortunately, none of them were real.

One assumes the executive team at Samsung has seen this report as well.

But turning "Googling" into "Binging" will take more than offering favorable revenue sharing agreements, new software upgrades, or corporate investments.

In the modern tech order, the strongest moat any company or service can build is to become a verb. When people talk about looking up information on their computer or phone, in most cases they don't say they're searching  they're Googling. Google's vice grip on the search market has centered on this branding.

Threats to Google's search dominance, of course, aren't unique to 2023. The magic of the industry's hottest social network  TikTok  is that search is largely replaced with discovery. Search is also at the heart of Amazon's online shopping portal, and Meta's Facebook and Instagram platforms. Every search query done by users on these platforms is a search not done on Google.

But when people talk about anything AI-related, they usually don't reference LLMs or AGI or Bard. Instead, they say "ChatGPT."

Whether AI turns out to be the paradigm-defining technology the tech world believes remains to be seen. But should this possible future come to pass, the earliest phase of this land grab has not been kind to Google.

Click here for the latest stock market news and in-depth analysis, including events that move stocks

Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance
TORONTO, April 18, 2023 /CNW/ - TerrAscend Corp. ("TerrAscend" or the "Company") (CSE: TER) (OTCQX: TRSSF), a leading North American cannabis operator, today announced that it will host a scheduled conference call to discuss the results for its first quarter ended March 31, 2023 on Thursday, May 11, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time. The Company will report its financial results for the first quarter 2023 the same day after market close.

TerrAscend Logo (CNW Group/TerrAscend)

CONFERENCE CALL DETAILS



Date: Thursday, May 11, 2023 Time: 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time RapidConnect URL: https://emportal.ink/40NjnQ4 Webcast: Click Here Dial-in Number: 1-888-664-6392 Conference ID: 90703912 Replay: 416-764-8677 or 1-888-390-0541 Available until 12:00 midnight Eastern Time Thursday, May 25, 2023 Replay Entry Code: 703912#

The Canadian Securities Exchange ("CSE") has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release. Neither the CSE nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

About TerrAscend

TerrAscend is a leading North American cannabis operator with vertically integrated operations in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, Michigan and California and retail operations in Canada. TerrAscend operates The Apothecarium and Gage dispensary retail locations as well as scaled cultivation, processing, and manufacturing facilities in its core markets. TerrAscend's cultivation and manufacturing practices yield consistent, high-quality cannabis, providing industry-leading product selection to both the medical and legal adult-use markets. The Company owns several synergistic businesses and brands including Gage Cannabis, The Apothecarium, Ilera Healthcare, Kind Tree, Legend, State Flower, and Valhalla Confections. For more information visit www.terrascend.com.

SOURCE TerrAscend

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View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/April2023/18/c2651.html
TORONTO, April 18, 2023 /CNW/ - Think Research Corporation (TSXV: THNK) ("Think" or the "Company"), a company focused on transforming healthcare through digital health software solutions, is pleased to announce that Sachin Aggarwal will present at the 2023 Bloom Burton & Co. Healthcare Investor Conference on Wednesday April, 26th from 11:00AM to 11:30AM.

Think Research Corporation Logo (CNW Group/Think Research Corporation)

A copy of the presentation will be available in the Investor section at www.thinkresearch.com following the conference.

About the Conference:

The Bloom Burton & Co. Healthcare Investor Conference brings together U.S., Canadian and international investors who are interested in the latest developments in the Canadian healthcare sector. Attendees will have an opportunity to obtain corporate updates from the premier Canadian publicly traded and private companies through presentations and private meetings.

When?

Tuesday April 25, 2023-Wednesday April 26, 2023

8:30 AM-4:30 PM ET

Where?

Metro Toronto Convention Centre, North Building

255 Front St W

Toronto, Ontario

M5V 2W6

About Bloom Burton & Co.:

Bloom Burton & Co. is a firm dedicated to accelerating returns in the healthcare sector for both investors and companies. Bloom Burton has an experienced team of medical, scientific, industry and capital markets professionals who perform a deep level of diligence, which combined with our creative and entrepreneurial approach, assists our clients in achieving the right monetization events. Bloom Burton and its affiliates provide capital raising, M&A advisory, equity research, business strategy and scientific consulting, as well as advisory on direct investing, company creation and incubation services. Bloom Burton Securities Inc. is a member of the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC) and is also a member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF).

Questions?

Karen Li

Manager, Marketing and Communications

Story continues

Email: kli@bloomburton.com

Anna Jung

Event Coordinator

Email: ajung@bloomburton.com

Brian Bloom

Chairman & CEO

Email: bbloom@bloomburton.com

About Think Research Corporation

Think Research Corporation is an industry leader in delivering knowledge-based digital health software solutions. The Company's focused mission is to organize the world's health knowledge so everyone gets the best care. Its evidence-based healthcare technology solutions support the clinical decision-making process, standardize care, to facilitate better health care outcomes. The Company gathers, develops, and delivers knowledge-based solutions globally to customers which typically includes enterprise clients, hospitals, health regions, healthcare professionals, and / or governments. The Company has gathered a significant amount of data by building its repository of knowledge through its network and group of companies, including acquired companies.

Think licenses its solutions to over 13,000 facilities for over 300,000 primary care, acute care, and long-term care doctors, nurses and pharmacists that rely on the content and data provided by Think to support their practices. Millions of patients and residents annually receive better care due to the essential data that Think produces, manages and delivers.

In addition, the Company collects and manages pharmaceutical and clinical trial data via the BioPharma Services entity that Think acquired on September 10, 2021. BioPharma Services is a leading provider of bioequivalence and Phase 1 clinical research services to pharmaceutical companies globally. Think's other services include a network of digital-first primary care clinics and medical clinics that provide elective surgery. Visit: www.thinkresearch.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 news release.

For more information: https://www.thinkresearch.com/ca/investors/

SOURCE Think Research Corporation

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ORLANDO, Fla., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Andor Health, the company reinventing virtual health for the new paradigm, continues to be a leading innovator within the telehealth space by leveraging AI to power virtual care experiences.

ThinkAndor (PRNewsfoto/Andor Health)

ThinkAndor is designed to deliver value-driven virtual health by leveraging AI to unlock intelligent clinical context. By enabling real-time care collaboration and streamlining workflows, ThinkAndor's cutting-edge technology transforms the way care is delivered.

ThinkAndor uses Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service to bring the power of ChatGPT to every virtual encounter, improving content while providing an interactive experience. Care teams are empowered with relevant clinical content for expedited treatment, improving patient outcomes and satisfaction.

"By using Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service as the foundation for our platform, we were able to expand our platform to deliver care virtually anywhere with the support of artificial intelligence to curate clinical context in every virtual experience," explained Raj Toleti, Chairman & CEO of Andor Health. "ThinkAndor leverages AI to create more effective virtual collaborations by proactively curating relevant clinical content and interpreting specific intents from the provider to automatically generate orders. By embedding AI into all virtual interactions, ThinkAndor changes the nature of care delivery."

"We are pleased to see Andor integrate Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service with Azure Communication Services for their virtual care solutions," states Bob Serr, Vice President of Azure Communication Services, Microsoft. "It aligns with our goals to augment human connection with automated communication, and we believe this will help enhance patient engagement and care delivery for over 1.4 million visits that Andor has already delivered for hospitals and providers."

To learn more, visit Andor Health at HIMSS booth number 2875 to see how you can achieve more with AI-powered virtual care experiences.

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About Andor Health

At Andor Health, our mission is to change the way care teams connect and collaborate. By harnessing machine and human intelligence, our cloud-based platform unlocks data stored in electronic medical records to deliver real-time actionable intelligence to care teams inside and outside their enterprise. By optimizing communication workflows, our solutions accelerate time to treatment, decrease clinician burnout, and drive better patient outcomes. For more information, visit Andor Health or follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .

Media Contacts

Andor Health

Jennifer Skitsko - SVP, Marketing

Email: Jennifer.Skitsko@andorhealth.com

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SOURCE Andor Health
Trenton, NJ - (NewMediaWire) - April 18, 2023 - (King NewsWire) - The Tokenomics Agency, a leader in professional tokenomics design services, is proud to announce its proven success in transforming tokenomics into winning strategies for investors through curation and visual design. With over two years of experience, 10 completed projects, and 200 tokenomics analyzed, the agency has received many positive reviews from satisfied founders.

The Tokenomics Agency is a one-stop solution for founders of cryptocurrency projects seeking to create tokens that ensure long-term success. The company's team of experienced tokenomics specialists understands the intricacies of token economics and provides customized tokenomics models tailored to each project's unique needs.

The agency's services include Tokenomics Design, Tokenomics Consulting, Tokenomics Audit Service, and Evaluation of Current Designs. Their comprehensive approach ensures that every tokenomics model is designed with sustainability and effectiveness in mind.

Dean Willis, Founder of TheTokenomicsAgency.com, emphasizes the company's commitment to addressing a critical issue in the tokenomics space. He says, "After analyzing countless tokenomic models, we've observed that many of them suffer from significant supply shocks, which ultimately hinder the project's future growth and success. At The Tokenomics Agency, we've made it our mission to ensure that all new cryptocurrency token models we design for our clients do not fall prey to such supply shocks. Instead, we create sustainable and balanced token models that not only benefit our clients' projects but also protect the interests of investors and users."

Choosing The Tokenomics Agency ensures access to a team specializing in designing tokenomics models that are both sustainable and effective. Their goal is to create customized tokenomics models that help clients achieve their project goals while benefiting both the project and its users.

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Tokenomics Design Service offers tailored solutions to fit specific client needs, assisting in creating a token economy that aligns with project goals, values, and target audiences. Tokenomics Consulting provides free consultation calls to guide clients towards creating a successful tokenomics design for their projects.

The Tokenomics Audit Service offers a thorough evaluation of tokenomics designs, ensuring alignment with the agency's principles. This audit includes an in-depth assessment of token distribution, governance models, incentives, and more.

The Tokenomics Agency also evaluates common tokenomics designs, analyzing aspects such as gas fees and validator staking, and non-restrictive "staking" rewards, like the ones of OlympusDAO, to determine their potential impact on the long-term value of a protocol.

To explore the potential of the project and receive tailored recommendations, book a call with The Tokenomics Agency's expert team today or contact them on Twitter.

The Tokenomics Agency is officially open for business.



About The Tokenomics Agency

The Tokenomics Agency is a leading provider of professional tokenomics design services, with a proven track record of success in creating sustainable and effective token models for cryptocurrency projects. Their team of experienced specialists offers a range of services, including tokenomics design, consulting, audit, and evaluation of current designs, to ensure the long-term success of clients' projects.

Media Contact

Organization: The Tokenomics Agency

Contact Person: Dean Willis

Website: https://thetokenomicsagency.com/

Email: info@thetokenomicsagency.com

Contact Number: +1-609-585-0194

City: Trenton

State: New Jersey

Country: United States
Fortune Business Insights

Tower Crane Market to Experience Prolific Growth; Rapid Adoption of Advanced Building & Construction Equipment in Developed Nations to Aid Market Expansion

Pune, India, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global Tower Crane Market size is projected to enter a period of dynamic growth on account of speedy expansion of construction activities across the globe, according to Fortune Business Insights in its report, titled Tower Crane Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Product Type (Flat Top Crane, Hammerhead Crane, Luffing Jib Crane), By Design (Top Slewing Crane, Bottom Slewing Crane), By Lifting Capacity (Below 5 Metric Tons, 6 to 20 Metric Tons, 21 to 50 Metric Tons, 51 to 80 Metric Tons, 51 to 80 Metric Tons, Above 80 Metric Tons), By End-use Vertical (Infrastructural Sector, Residential Sector, Commercial Sector) and Regional Forecast, 2023-2030.





Request FREE Sample research PDF:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/request-sample-pdf/tower-crane-market-102883





A report produced by Oxford Economics and Global Construction Perspectives and published by the Institution of Civil Engineers forecasted that the global volume of construction output will rise by 85%, reaching an estimated value of USD 15.5 trillion by 2030. China, the US, and India will account for nearly 57% of this growth, the report further highlights. Surging building operations will inevitably generate massive demand for machinery and equipment such as tower cranes, which are crucial in erecting buildings and creating infrastructure for a nation. The tower crane market is expected to make substantial gains from these developments in the forthcoming years.

List of Key Players Profiled in the Tower Crane Market Report:

Shandong Huaxia Group Co. Ltd.

FMGru SRL

Raimondi Cranes S.p.A.

Sany Group

Liebherr-International Deutschland GmbH

TopPower General Trading LLC

Shandong Dahan Construction Machinery Co. Ltd.

Yongmao Holdings Limited

Wolfkkran International AG

Sichuan Construction Machinery Group Co.

Linden Comansa SL

HanKook Tower Crane Co., Ltd.

Manitowoc Co. Inc.

Zoomlion Heavy Industry Science & Technology Co. Ltd.

Action Construction Equipment Ltd.

XCMG Group

Terex Corporation

Story continues

What Does the Report Offer?

Birds-eye view understanding of the market trends and drivers;

Piecemeal examination of all possible market segments;

Comprehensive insights into the market restraints; and

In-depth study of the regional dynamics and competitive landscape of the market.





Report Scope & Segmentation:

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2023-2030 Forecast CAGR Striking CAGR Base Year 2022 Historical Data 2019-2021 Segments Covered By Product Type, By Design, By Lifting Capacity, By Geography, By End-use Vertical Growth Drivers Rapid growth in infrastructural sector Increase in utilization of heavy equipment at shipyards globally

























Covid-19 Impact:

The global economy is reeling under the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Business operations have come to a sudden halt due to lockdown and social distancing measures and industrial output has decreased significantly. In such impossible circumstances, having precise information on industries and markets becomes crucial. At Fortune Business Insights, we aim to provide you with the accurate market intelligence of the highest quality in the form of research reports created by our well-experienced and expert research team. Together, we can survive this crisis situation and emerge stronger than before.

Click here to get the short-term and long-term impact of COVID-19 on this market.

Please visit: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/tower-crane-market-102883





Market Driver

Increasing Deployment of Flat Top Tower Cranes to Boost Market Prospects

Flat top tower cranes possess a host of favourable characteristics that make them an attractive and efficient candidate in construction activities. For example, these cranes have no tower top and by extension, no pull rod and outrigger, which gives them excellent structural strength and balance. Tower cranes with flat tops are also cost-effective because they have small volume and occupy relatively lesser space, making their installation vastly easier compared to regular cranes and reducing maintenance and warehousing costs substantially. Furthermore, the components that comprise these cranes are changeable, modularized, and standardized, which ensures that all parts of the equipment are utilized, providing high return on investment. Lastly, a flat top cranes jib boom can be dismantled and replaced mid-air, permitting project managers to use these cranes in special operations such as construction of industrial cooling towers and suspension bridges. Together, these advantages are fueling the tower crane market growth.

Regional Insights

Massive Investments in Construction Sector to Propel the Market in Europe

The European Union (EU) countries are pouring massive amounts of money into the building & construction sector, which is stoking the adoption of advanced equipment in the region. For instance, the European Commission recently announced plans to invest over USD 370 billion in the construction industry over next few years.

Asia Pacific is expected to expand its footprint in the tower crane market share in the coming years on account of skyrocketing demand for construction activities as a result of rapid urbanization. In addition to this, mining and transport activities are growing at a furious pace in India, China, and Vietnam, which is elevating the demand for various types of construction equipment. In North America, strong government support to green projects and public transport infrastructure projects will primarily drive the regional market growth.

Competitive Landscape

Key Players to Concentrate on Tapping Emerging Markets

The competition in the tower crane market is heavy as most players are seeking to capitalize on the lucrative business opportunities created by the booming construction sector. In emerging economies especially, the opportunities to expand and diversify are ample and many of the key players in this market are constantly developing products to suit the needs of these regions.





Ask For Customization:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/ask-for-customization/tower-crane-market-102883





Industry Developments:

December 2019: LINDEN Comansa, the Spanish crane company, released its 21CM750 tower crane model in China. The flat top model is the largest of its kind developed by the company in China and features European safety standards as well as a host of other advanced capabilities.

August 2019: The US-based material-handling specialist, Terex Corporation, sold off its Demag Mobile Cranes business to the Japanese crane manufacturer Tadano Limited for an estimated value of USD 215 million.

Table Of Content:

Introduction

Research Scope

Market Segmentation

Research Methodology

Definitions and Assumptions

Executive Summary

Market Dynamics

Market Drivers 2030

Market Restraints

Market Opportunities

Key Insights

Key Emerging Trends  For Major Countries

Latest Technological Advancement

Regulatory Landscape

Porter Five Forces Analysis 2030

Qualitative Analysis  Impact of COVID-19

Impact of COVID-19 on the Market

Steps Taken by the Government to Overcome the Impact

Key Developments by Industry Players in Response to COVID-19

Potential Opportunities and Challenges due to COVID-19 Outbreak

Competitive Analysis

Company Market Share Analysis, 2030

Company Profile

Business Overview

Product & Service Offering

Overall Revenue

Geographic Presence

Recent Development





Get a Quote:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/get-a-quote/tower-crane-market-102883





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Outdoor Heating Market 2023 Size, Share, Forecast

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It wants to bring awareness about and address high cost of remittance

SINGAPORE, April 17, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Tranglo is proud to announce the success of our sponsorship of the 3rd Inficare Futsal Tournament in Nepal.

Tranglo is the main sponsor of the 3rd Inficare Remitters Futsal Tournament in Nepal which aims to bring awareness about the importance of remittance in the country.

The tournament, organised by leading software fintech Inficare Pvt Ltd, was held at Dhanyentari Futsal, Kathmandu, Nepal, on 1 April and 8 April. It aims to raise awareness about faster and cheaper remittance services to the country.

Remittance is a major GDP contributor for Nepal, which comes close to 23%. About 56% of Nepali households rely on remittances, making lowering costs and improving accessibility a crucial goal.

Thirteen remittance companies and financial institutions participated in the tournament. The winner and 1st runner-up bagged NPR 75,000 and NPR 25,000, respectively.

Tranglo Group CEO Jacky Lee and SVP of GCC & South Asia Sohail Ahmad watched the tournament finals and presented trophies to the winners at the Aloft Kathmandu Thamel Hotel.

Jacky said supporting Tranglo's partners in Nepal to promote financial inclusion was an easy decision.

He added: "Nepal is an important corridor. While 80% of Nepali workers abroad still choose the Gulf nations and Malaysia, an increasing number of them are heading for Japan, South Korea and Europe. We are expanding our network of cash pickup services, bank and e-wallet transfers in these countries to give them more options to remit money."

Inficare CEO Anoop Sherchan thanked Tranglo for its contributions and said the futsal tournament aimed to foster strong relationships among the remittance companies in Nepal.

Tranglo helps financial institutions and businesses pay through Tranglo Connect , its proprietary cross-border payments solution. Tranglo maintains a vast network of payout channels in Nepal, such as 24/7 instant account deposits to all major banks, flexible cash pickups and direct-to-wallet transfers.

About Tranglo

Tranglo is a cross-border payment hub with a proven track record in business payment, foreign remittance and mobile payment solutions. Founded in 2008, we have offices in Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Jakarta, Dubai and London. Our global network spans over 150 countries, 600 mobile operators, 1,300 banks/wallets and 140,000 cash pickup points. Tranglo is a proud partner of Ripple, the leading enterprise blockchain solutions for global payments. We now offer enhanced cross-border payout services with an even wider coverage through RippleNet, Ripple's global payment network. To find out more, visit www.tranglo.com , LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter.

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SOURCE Tranglo Pte Ltd
(Bloomberg) -- One of Justin Trudeaus senior cabinet ministers said the Canadian government is monitoring Glencore Plcs attempted takeover of Teck Resources Ltd., pointing out that the country benefits from having the headquarters of major companies.

Most Read from Bloomberg

We are following it very closely, Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson said Monday in a phone interview. But he added that his cabinet colleagues wont pre-judge the commercial conversations that are taking place.

Wilkinson said Teck is an important player in Canadas mining sector not just because of critical minerals projects, but also as a contributor to the economy of his home province of British Columbia, including its coal business.

Teck is racing to secure investor support for its plan to separate its coal and metals assets  on which shareholders are scheduled to vote next week  while fending off an unsolicited $23 billion takeover offer from Swiss commodities giant Glencore for the whole company.

Wilkinson said its a positive thing for Canada to have major companies headquartered locally.

We are a country that would love to have more corporate offices in this country that actually drive research and development spending, he said. And so obviously we are watching this with great interest and certainly having conversations.

But the minister stressed that he wont jump ahead of talks between the commercial players, or any potential deal review that would be overseen by his cabinet colleague, Industry Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne.

Teck shares rose to a record close of C$65.15 in Toronto on Monday after controlling shareholder Norman Keevil said the company is willing to consider deals after its finished spinning off the coal business.

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Canadas investment law gives the government some latitude to block foreign takeovers of large companies, though the power has not been used frequently. After allowing a string of mega-takeovers in the mining and metals sector in the early 2000s, the government in 2010 blocked BHP Groups proposed takeover of Potash Corp. of Saskatchewan. Last year, Trudeaus government ordered Chinese firms to divest of three junior lithium miners and promised tougher rules for investment in the critical minerals sector.

(Updates with additional context on Canadian takeover law)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
(Bloomberg) -- As chairman of the Federal Communications Commission, Ajit Pai played a leading role in scrutinizing Chinese phone carriers operating in the US, even moving to eject several on security grounds.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Now working in private equity, Pai, who left the FCC as the Biden administration came in, is working to water down an FCC proposal to boost communications security by more closely tracking foreign investors.

The change would place firms in a difficult position vis-a-vis their investors, which may include sovereign wealth funds, critics including Pai, a partner at Searchlight Capital Partners, said in meetings at the FCC last week. Efforts to avert the new rules continued with follow-up calls and letters, according to filings released Monday by the FCC.

The regulatory agency has proposed tightening the threshold for requiring operators of international telecommunications services in the US to identify foreign investors to 5% ownership from 10%. The provision is part of a broader rule thats gained the backing of Justice Department security experts and is set for a vote on Thursday at the FCC.

In meetings April 10 and 11 with the three current FCC commissioners to argue against the proposal, Pai, a Republican, was joined by other investment executives, including Jonathan Adelstein, a Democrat who served as FCC commissioner from 2002 to 2009. On April 13, Adelstein and lawyers for Pais Searchlight met with FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel, a Democrat, according to a disclosure filing. With that, the petitioners had gained the ear of all four members of the commission, which is missing one member due to political gridlock.

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Adelstein is now head of global policy and public investment for DigitalBridge Group Inc., a Boca Raton, Florida-based network infrastructure company with shareholders including Wafra Inc., an investment firm controlled by Kuwaits government.

The FCC and DigitalBridge declined to comment, and Searchlight didnt respond to requests for comment.

Rosenworcel, in a March 29 statement, said the proposed rule on foreign investors would help the FCC stay ahead of evolving security threats. The measure would require holders of communications licenses to undergo a periodic review and renewal process, including national security vetting.

Pai and Adelstein said keeping the 10% threshold wouldnt harm national security because investors below that limit dont control day-to-day operations.

The proposed rules miss the mark by failing to consider the negative impact on the ability of investment management firms to attract foreign capital, Pai, Adelstein and other signers said in an April 13 letter filed with the FCC. By undercutting the willingness of this key capital source to invest with our firms, the commissions draft proposal would inhibit critical investments in the US telecommunications sector.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
SCS Global Services Certifies Turo's Carbon Neutrality, and Turo Plans Further GHG Reductions in 2023

SAN FRANCISCO, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Turo , the world's largest peer-to-peer car sharing marketplace, announced today that the company has been Carbon Neutral Certified by SCS Global Services , a pioneer and global leader in the field of sustainability certification assessment. This certification is a testament to Turo's efforts in the fight against climate change, making the automotive and transportation industry more sustainable, and building a marketplace that puts the world's 1.5 billion cars to better use.

Turo Logo (PRNewsfoto/Turo)

"An important part of Turo's mission in putting the 1.5 billion cars to better use is ensuring the world's existing resources are put to better use," said Turo CEO, Andre Haddad. "I'm proud of the steps we  our employees and vibrant community of hosts and guests  have collectively taken to reduce our environmental footprint while enjoying all that Turo has to offer."

This Carbon Neutral certification completed by SCS Global Services and administered by the non-profit standards setting body, SCS Standards, verifies and formalizes Turo's work in offsetting 100% of its annual 2022 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Turo intends to maintain carbon neutrality moving forward and plans to continue cutting back on greenhouse gas emissions through initiatives outlined in a GHG Reduction Management Plan:

Increase the number of electric and hybrid vehicles on Turo and the trips they support through EV financing partnerships for hosts and other initiatives; and Drive more hybrid and electric vehicle-based trips by highlighting the existing offerings through an elevated product experience and partnership.

"Turo's achievement of carbon neutrality, as confirmed through our third-party certification, ensures credibility of the company's accurate carbon footprint measurement, its purchase of carbon credits that provide real climate mitigation, and a completely neutralized footprint," said Dave Jonas, SCS Global Services Program Manager, Carbon Neutral Certification. "We applaud Turo for demonstrating sustainability leadership by achieving comprehensive carbon neutrality across Scopes 1, 2, and 3, including direct carbon emissions from its staff and offices, indirect emissions associated with energy usage in operations, and fuel used in shared vehicles."

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Investments that highlight Turo's commitment to sustainability include participation in the J.B. Hunt Transportation Efficiency Project, which reduces the number of semi-trucks on US highways from coast to coast, resulting in lower air emissions, improved highway safety, and less wear and tear on overall roads and infrastructure. This project is anticipated to reduce GHG emissions from the transport of goods by 50 percent.

Turo has also invested in the Kootznoowoo Forestry Project, which protects 20,000 acres of forest on Prince of Wales Island in Alaska, including approximately 8,000 acres of old-growth forest. Owned by the native Tlingit and Haida people and managed alongside the US Forest Service, Turo's investment will help preserve the woodland ecosystem, as well as support an education fund for the native community.

Turo has fueled eco-friendly adventures  roughly 14 percent of its Gross Booking Value (GBV) in 2022 came from trips taken with a vehicle running on alternative energy. Turo has offered access to a selection of electric vehicles since 2012, helping drive the adoption of electric vehicles, and has some of the most sought after and recently launched makes and models available to book today. Turo expects EV adoption to increase, and will continue to champion this growth by building a rich supply of electric and hybrid vehicles on the platform.

In addition to new projects, investments, partnerships, and more, Turo remains committed to offsetting any emissions that cannot be addressed through operational changes across all markets where it currently operates, and will be updating the plan at least every 12 months.

To learn more about Turo, please visit www.turo.com .

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements including, among other things, statements regarding Turo's intention to maintain carbon neutrality through the end of 2023, Turo's proposed initiatives to further reduce or offset greenhouse gas emissions, the anticipated effects of Turo's participation and investment in certain third-party initiatives, Turo's plans to grow the supply of electric and hybrid vehicles on its platform, and Turo's intention to update its GHG Reduction Management plan every 12 months. The words "anticipate," "believe," "continue," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "looking ahead," "look to," "may," "move into," "plan," "project," "seek," "target," "will," and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. You should not rely on forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. The outcome of the events described in these forward-looking statements is subject to risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other factors, including, among other things, market risks, trends, and conditions, changes in adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles, and changes in laws and regulations related to climate change and greenhouse gas emissions. These risks are not exhaustive. If any of the risks materialize or assumptions prove incorrect, actual results could differ materially from the results implied by these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements relate only to events as of the date of this press release. Turo undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements made in this press release to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this press release or to reflect new information, actual results, revised expectations, or the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as required by law.

About Turo

Turo is the world's largest car sharing marketplace where guests can book any car they want, wherever they want it, from a vibrant community of trusted hosts. Whether they're flying in from afar or looking for a car down the street, searching for a rugged truck or something smooth and swanky for a once-in-a-lifetime event, guests can take the wheel of the perfect car for any occasion, while hosts can take the wheel of its futures by sharing its underutilized personal vehicles or building an accessible, flexible, and scalable car sharing business from the ground up. Turo is home to a supportive and collaborative community that shares thousands of vehicles across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, and Australia.

Media Contact

Autumn Communications

turo@autumncommunications.com

About SCS Global Services

SCS Global Services is a global leader in third-party environmental and sustainability verication, certication, auditing, and testing. Its programs span a cross-section of industries, recognizing achievements in climate mitigation, green building, product manufacturing, food and agriculture, forestry, consumer products, and more. Headquartered in Emeryville, California, SCS has representatives and affiliate offices throughout the Americas, Asia/Pacific, Europe and Africa. Its broad network of auditors are experts in their fields, and the company is a trusted partner to companies, agencies and advocacy organizations due to its dedication to quality and professionalism. SCS, which stands for Scientific Certification Systems, is a chartered Benet Corporation, reecting its commitment to socially and environmentally responsible business practices. For more information, visit www.scsglobalservices.com .

About SCS Standards

SCS Standards is a non-profit organization committed to the development of standards that advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Standards are developed in alignment with best practices and guidelines provided by internationally recognized bodies to ensure a robust, transparent and collaborative approach. SCS Standards is an affiliate of Scientific Certification Systems, Inc., and is its official standards development body. For more information, visit www.scsstandards.org .

Media Contact

Nikki Helms

nhelms@scsglobalservices.com

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SOURCE Turo Inc.
Sernova Corp.

Following Institutional Shareholder Services positive recommendations, Glass Lewis is the second independent, third-party proxy advisory firm to recommend Sernovas shareholders vote FOR all managements director nominees using ONLY managements WHITE proxy.

Glass Lewis does not believe Sernovas dissident shareholders have compiled a sufficiently compelling case to warrant investor support and refers to their arguments as incomplete.

Shareholders who have questions or need assistance with voting their shares should contact Sernova Corp.s strategic advisor and proxy solicitation agent Laurel Hill Advisory Group by telephone at 1-877-452-7184 or by email at assistance@laurelhill.com.



LONDON, Ontario, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Sernova Corp. (Sernova or the Corporation) (TSX: SVA) (OTCQB: SEOVF) (FSE/XETRA: PSH), a clinical-stage company and leader in cell therapeutics, is pleased to announce that a second independent, third-party proxy advisory firm, Glass Lewis & Co. LLC (Glass Lewis), has recommended Sernovas shareholders vote FOR all of Sernovas management nominees using only managements WHITE proxy.

Glass Lewis also recommended that shareholders vote FOR the appointment of KPMG LLP as Sernovas auditors and FOR the resolution to amend the Corporations stock option plan and DSU Plan.

Glass Lewis is a leading independent, third-party proxy advisory firm which provides proxy voting recommendations to pension funds, investment managers, mutual funds, and other institutional shareholders.

Reasons for Glass Lewis Support of Sernovas Management Nominees

Glass Lewis recommendation that shareholders vote FOR all of Sernovas management nominees using only managements WHITE proxy, is based on a number of factors. Glass Lewis report states:

In this case we do not believe the Dissidents have compiled a sufficiently compelling case to warrant investor support at this time. Our view in this regard hinges on three principal factors: (i) the Dissidents overall case against incumbent management and the board is fairly broad and arguably incomplete, with core analyses (e.g. share price performance) lacking context and certain strategic commentary failing to offer much depth relative to the board's much more copious rebuttal; (ii) the need to pursue the Dissidents' promulgated alternatives for the Company (i.e. positioning Sernova to secure additional financing within the next 18 months, investing in a go-to-market strategy, solidifying succession planning) is not especially well established, in our view, particularly given the Company's stable capital position and relationship with Evotec; and (iii) the Dissident nominees  which include a dentist with unspecified experience investing in early stage companies and a business consultant with a prior relationship with Sernova  do not appear to represent a clear, incremental improvement over the incumbent board members.

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We also consider the board has, with due reference to Sernova's development stage and size, offered a reasonably well-rounded corporate update, touching both on the Company's prior milestones and anticipated near-term developments. The board also draws attention to Sernova's currently adequate capital position, which, though certainly not intended to serve as an indefinite bulwark against future funding requirements, appears to offer Sernova sufficient near-term liquidity and structural flexibility.

Under these conditions, we do not see that the Dissidents have provided Sernova investors with sufficient cause to support their agenda at this time.

Glass Lewis Recommends Support of Sernovas Proposed Securities Authorized for Issuance Under its Equity Compensation Plans

Glass Lewis recommended that shareholders vote FOR the resolution to amend the Corporations stock option plan and DSU Plan, as the proxy advisory firm believes the terms of the plan are in line with the majority of similar equity-based plans of TSX issuers. Glass Lewis view is that the plan will serve to strengthen the alignment of company and shareholder interests. The Corporation believes that encouraging its executive officers, senior management and employees to become shareholders is the best way of aligning their interests with those of its long-term shareholders. As a result, executive officers management and employees are provided with the opportunity to participate in the appreciation of the Corporations share price, through Sernovas equity compensation incentive plan.

Vote FOR your Management Nominees using ONLY Managements WHITE Proxy

It is up to you to protect the value of your investment in Sernova by voting FOR the eight management nominees. We encourage you to read Sernovas management information circular and visit our website at www.sernova.com for more information. It is important that you ACT TODAY to protect your investment by voting FOR Sernovas management nominees.

Sernovas management nominees, Frank Holler, Dr. Mohammad Azab, Jeffery Bacha, Deborah Brown, Dr. Daniel Mahony, James Parsons, Dr. Philip Toleikis and Brett Whalen are committed to creating value for the Corporations shareholders through delivering results from clinical trials, expanding the Sernovas Cell Pouch System technology platform for additional indications, and building on the relationships with the Corporations business partners to create long term shareholder value.

YOUR VOTE HAS NEVER BEEN MORE IMPORTANT. VOTE YOUR SHARES FOR SERNOVAS MANAGEMENT NOMINEES AS SOON AS POSSIBLE, REGARDLESS OF THE NUMBER OF SHARES YOU OWN

Shareholders are encouraged to read Sernovas management information circular and vote your shares as soon as possible. The deadline for voting your shares is at 10:00 a.m. (Pacific Time) on Tuesday, April 25, 2023.

Sernovas board of directors recommends that shareholders vote FOR all of the management director nominees and meeting resolutions using only the WHITE proxy.

Shareholder Questions

Shareholders who have any questions or require assistance with voting may contact Sernovas proxy solicitation agent and shareholder communications advisor:

Laurel Hill Advisory Group

Toll Free: 1-877-452-7184 (for shareholders in North America)

International: +1 416-304-0211 (for shareholders outside Canada and the US)

By Email: assistance@laurelhill.com

ABOUT SERNOVA CORP. AND THE CELL POUCH SYSTEM PLATFORM FOR CELL THERAPY

Sernova Corp. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company that is developing therapeutic cell technologies for chronic diseases, including insulin-dependent diabetes, thyroid disease, and blood disorders that include hemophilia A. Sernova is currently focused on developing a functional cure for insulin-dependent diabetes with its lead asset, the Cell Pouch System, a novel implantable and scalable medical device with immune protected therapeutic cells. On implantation, the Cell Pouch forms a natural vascularized tissue environment in the body for long-term survival and function of therapeutic cells that release essential factors that are absent or deficient in the bodies of patients with certain chronic diseases. Sernovas Cell Pouch System has demonstrated its potential to be a functional cure for people with T1D in an ongoing Phase 1/2 clinical study at the University of Chicago. Sernova is also advancing a proprietary technology in collaboration with the University of Miami to shield therapeutic cells from immune system attack with the goal to eliminate the need for chronic, systemic immunosuppression. In May 2022, Sernova and Evotec entered into a global strategic partnership to develop an implantable off-the-shelf iPSC (induced pluripotent stem cells) based islet replacement therapy. This partnership provides Sernova a potentially unlimited supply of insulin-producing cells to treat millions of patients with insulin-dependent diabetes (type 1 and type 2). Sernova continues to progress two additional development programs that utilize its Cell Pouch System: a cell therapy for hypothyroid disease resulting from thyroid gland removal and an ex vivo lentiviral Factor VIII gene therapy for hemophilia A.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:

Corporate Investors Media Christopher Barnes

VP, Investor Relations

Sernova Corp.

christopher.barnes@sernova.com

Tel: 519-902-7923

www.sernova.com Corey Davis, Ph.D.

LifeSci Advisors, LLC

cdavis@lifesciadvisors.com

Tel: 212-915-2577



Elizabeth Miller, M.D.

LifeSci Communications

emiller@lifescicomms.com

Tel: 646-791-9705





FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This release contains statements that, to the extent they are not recitations of historical facts, may constitute forward-looking statements that involve various risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, including, without limitation, statements regarding the prospects, plans, and objectives of the company. Wherever possible, but not always, words such as "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential for" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur are used to identify forward-looking statements. These statements reflect managements beliefs with respect to future events and are based on information currently available to management on the date such statements were made. Many factors could cause Sernovas actual results, performances or achievements to not be as anticipated, estimated or intended or to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements contained in this news release. Such factors could include, but are not limited to, the companys ability to secure additional financing and licensing arrangements on reasonable terms, or at all; ability to conduct all required preclinical and clinical studies for the companys Cell Pouch System and or related technologies, including the timing and results of those trials; ability to obtain all necessary regulatory approvals, or on a timely basis; ability to in-license additional complementary technologies; ability to execute its business strategy and successfully compete in the market; and the inherent risks associated with the development of biotechnology combination products generally. Many of the factors are beyond our control, including those caused by, related to, or impacted by the novel coronavirus pandemic. Investors should consult the companys quarterly and annual filings available on www.sedar.com for additional information on risks and uncertainties relating to the forward-looking statements. Sernova expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.




London, UK --News Direct-- HANetf Holdings Limited

U.S. Global Investors Chief Investment Officer Frank Holmes visits the Proactive London studio to discuss latest from the world of civil aviation, including the demand for flights post-COVID, the shortage of pilots leading to pricing power for airlines, and the positive cash flow turnaround for the airline industry.

He also highlights the potential for investment opportunities in publicly listed airports around the world. With changing demographics and increased remote work options, Holmes believes that the demand for air travel will continue to grow, making the airline industry an attractive investment opportunity.

Contact Details

Proactive UK Ltd

+44 20 7989 0813

uk@proactiveinvestors.com

View source version on newsdirect.com: https://newsdirect.com/news/u-s-global-investors-chief-investment-officer-sees-us-trends-emerging-in-europe-952053374
SmartAsset: U.S. Legal Wills review

For almost all households creating a will is a straightforward, if unpleasant, task. Many individuals will simply have some cash, investments and (often) a home to disperse. And they have a relatively small number of friends and relatives they can leave that to. Dividing that property up is typically uncomplicated. But it is important to make sure you follow state and local laws. Thats where services such as U.S. Legal Wills come in. Well discuss how it works.

While its possible to create a will on your own, estate planning is a complex endeavor. Talk to a financial advisor today.

People with large estates or sophisticated needs should not try to make their own will, even with a service. They should see an attorney who can help them navigate the potentially confusing world of estate and property law. People with mid-sized estates and straightforward wishes can make another plan. In this case, your needs will likely be clear enough that you can use already prepared documents and a legal database.

What Is U.S. Legal Wills?

U.S. Legal Wills is a website that helps you to draft your own estate planning documents, such as a will, a power of attorney and a living will. It uses prepared forms and templates that it fills in based on your specific wishes and needs.

It works very similarly to a tax preparation website. When you use Legal Wills, you select the document you want to create. Then, the website guides you through the process with a series of questions, tools and tips that gather information about your wishes, your assets, your heirs and family members and other relevant information. In the end, it generates your estate documents, which you can either print out or keep in electronic form.

For people who enroll in a membership, U.S. Legal Wills also offers long-term services. For an additional fee it will store your estate documents online, helping clients to avoid the issue of a missing or unproven will. It can also host funeral instructions and other after-death wishes, which can be automatically distributed after your death.

Story continues

If youre ready to be matched with local advisors that can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.

Best Way to Use U.S. Legal Wills

SmartAsset: U.S. Legal Wills review

The best way to think of this service is like a TurboTax for estate planning. The software behind U.S. Legal Wills is very similar to what estate lawyers use in their own offices when they draft a will for their clients. It relies on a series of standard forms and documents and fills in specific information on a case-by-case basis. This is how most lawyers prepare a will because it helps them to speed up drafting and avoid mistakes of omission.

However, despite its name, U.S. Legal Wills is not a law firm. It cannot offer legal advice or solutions specific to your situation. Instead, it can prepare a document that will generally meet the needs of someone with your profile. For example, if you say I would like to leave my house to my two children, the website will fill in a template for splitting a house between two next-of-kin heirs. The language will meet the needs of a standard client, but it will be up to you to review the document and make sure that the template meets your specific needs.

This can work because, again like how an accountant is not required to do your taxes, the law does not require an attorney to prepare a will. Individuals can prepare their own wills, and U.S. Legal Wills gives you a tool that helps you do that.

In most, if not all, jurisdictions you will still need to find witnesses to countersign your will. In some jurisdictions, you may also need to have the document notarized. U.S. Legal Wills does not provide these services. Once you have prepared your will, you will need to find witnesses and (if necessary) notaries on your own.

What Does It Cost?

U.S. Wills has four price points.

The basic service costs $40 and helps you to prepare a last will and testament. This service helps you fill out the templates for a will using a series of questions and prompts and then provides you with documents that you can print out.

It includes standard concerns such as real estate, guardians for minor children, charitable bequests and nomination of an executor. It also includes some noteworthy and advanced concerns such as establishing trusts for the care of your children.

The advanced service costs $80, although, at the time of writing, it was discounted to $70. This service includes the entire basic product. It also offers a series of after-death options, allowing you to write final messages to loved ones and document your funeral wishes. U.S. Legal Wills will keep this information on file and will release it to nominated keyholders after your death.

The Complete Estate Plan costs $130, although, at the time of writing, it was discounted to $100. As above, it includes all services available in the previous tiers. It also provides you with the forms to name your power of attorney, if you are ever incapacitated, and to write a living trust, in case you need to make your medical wishes known in advance.

Finally, U.S. Legal Wills Premium Estate Plan costs $180, although, at the time of writing, it was discounted to $130. It offers all of the above, plus storage of your will and estate planning documents. While this may seem trivial, there is real value to having your will stored in a secure, known location so that your heirs dont need to worry about finding documents that may have become scattered after you die.

Should You Use U.S. Legal Wills?

SmartAsset: U.S. Legal Wills review

As a threshold matter, Louisiana does not accept estate documents from this service. As any lawyer can attest, its not uncommon for Louisiana to be an outlier when it comes to legal issues and this is no different. While residents may get some educational value from U.S. Legal Wills, their documents will not be accepted as valid estate plans.

Beyond that, it boils down to your estate planning needs. On its own merits, U.S. Legal Wills offers a clean, well-designed product. If you want to use a template for creating standard estate documents, this is a good one to choose. The bigger question is whether you should use a template in the first place.

For customers using the sites basic service, the answer is often yes. If you have a straightforward estate, theres nothing wrong with using pre-written forms to make sure you address the technicalities. U.S. Legal Wills offers a good product for this.

Beyond the sites basic service, however, the issue gets more complicated. If you need to establish a trust, manage complex assets, prepare for your own incapacitation or otherwise address complicated needs, in all likelihood you need to speak with a lawyer. This isnt a problem with U.S. Legal Wills. No template or automated service is a good option for someone who has multiple or complicated needs.

What U.S. Legal Wills offers is an inexpensive, quick service that allows you to create estate documents for a fraction of the price that you would spend on a lawyer. But it cannot offer advice that applies to your specific legal situation.

Bottom Line

U.S. Legal Wills is an online tool that helps you to draft estate documents. While people with complicated needs should see a lawyer, this is a good option for people with a straightforward estate.

Tips for Estate Planning

When youre planning out your estate its important to make sure you think through all of your assets and exactly how you want them to be protected. Getting the advice and help of a professional, like a financial advisor, can help you avoid mistakes. Finding a financial advisor doesnt have to be hard. SmartAssets free tool matches you with up to three vetted financial advisors who serve your area, and you can interview your advisor matches at no cost to decide which one is right for you. If youre ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.

If youre wanting to make an estate plan on your own then youll need to make sure you cross every t and dot every i, and a good start to that is checking out our estate planning checklist.

Photo credit: iStock.com/PeopleImages, iStock.com/mapo, iStock.com/shapecharge

The post U.S. Legal Wills Review appeared first on SmartAsset Blog.
Coinbases CEO Brian Armstrong appears as bullish as ever on crypto regulations in the UK.

The UK is moving fast on sensible crypto regulation to both drive economic growth AND consumer protection, he said in a tweet picturing himself alongside the UKs Economic Secretary and City Minster Andrew Griffith. Excited to keep investing in the UK.

The crypto exec also took the occasion to boost a bit of thought leadership from the exchange, which describes the UK as a Web3 innovation hub.

Griffith, for his part, has reportedly revived a body called the Asset Management Taskforce.

Sky News reported that the body will be investigating how to deploy blockchain technology across the fund management industry, among other objectives.

Coinbase has also provided nine recommendations that would cement the "UK as a leader in the sector."

These recommendations included ensuring that banks remove blanket bans on purchasing crypto, establish a good regulatory framework, and to set out a plan to bring decentralized ID into fruition.

The post also read that things are happening in Europe that are edging the region ahead when it comes to embracing the digital economy, citing the upcoming Markets in Crypto Assets (MiCA) regulations up for vote this week.

MiCA: What Europes New Crypto Rules Mean for the Industry

Coinbase, Andrew Griffith, and the HM Treasury did not immediately respond to Decrypts request for comment.

Crypto crackdown in the US

The bullishness for all things across the Atlantic comes amid a hefty crackdown on the crypto industry stateside.

Just yesterday, the SEC charged Bittrex and its CEO for operating an unregistered securities exchange. Prior to that, Coinbase was issued a Wells notice, which means the SEC formally notified the company of an impending enforcement action, over the crypto exchanges staking products.

SECs Coinbase Insider Trading Case Is Coming to a Close

And, back in February, Kraken settled similar charges with the SEC and paid a $30 million fine.
(Bloomberg) -- A Lebanese man and eight associates were charged in New York with violating US sanctions by using about $160 million in artworks and diamonds to help finance the terrorist organization Hezbollah.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Nazem Ahmad, who the US claims is a diamond smuggler and art collector, was charged in a nine-count indictment filed by federal prosecutors in Brooklyn on Tuesday. He isnt in custody, the government said.

Ahmad was sanctioned by the US in December 2019, prohibiting him from engaging in transactions with anyone in the US, the government said. Still, he and his co-conspirators used a complex web of business entities to obtain valuable works from US-based artists and galleries, and also secured US-based diamond-grading services, Brooklyn US Attorney Breon Peace said.

One of Ahmads co-defendants was arrested in the UK, and the US is seeking his extradition. The others remain at large outside the US.

The case is US v. Ahmad, 23-cr-139, US District Court, Eastern District of New York (Brooklyn).

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Bristol Myers Squibb, Genentech, Janssen, Lilly, Merck, and other biopharma leaders to share strategies for advancing commercial excellence

PLEASANTON, Calif., April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Veeva Systems (NYSE: VEEV) today announced that leaders from Bristol Myers Squibb, Eli Lilly and Company, Genentech, Janssen, and Merck will be keynote speakers at the 2023 Veeva Commercial Summit on May 2-3 in Boston. Speakers from leading and emerging biopharmas will share how advancements in digital engagement, content, data, and analytics elevate commercial strategy and execution.

Veeva Systems (PRNewsfoto/Veeva Systems)

One of the largest industry events in North America for commercial and medical affairs professionals, Veeva Commercial Summit will host nearly 1,500 people across more than 90 sessions. Veeva CEO Peter Gassner will headline the opening keynote with a bold vision to connect sales, medical, and marketing for commercial excellence. Veeva experts will join the stage to showcase the company's plans for future software, data, and services innovations to help companies get the right treatments to patients more efficiently.

Other featured keynotes include:

Bristol Myers Squibb on the future of omnichannel and customer engagement.

Genentech on bridging marketing operations, IT, and medical, legal, and regulatory (MLR) to create meaningful customer experiences.

Janssen on taking a modern approach to patient-level data that fuels high-impact commercial initiatives.

Lilly and Merck on advancing medical affairs as a strategic leader at the center of R&D and commercial.

"The industry is transforming engagement with healthcare professionals by creating greater synergies across sales, medical, and marketing," said Paul Shawah, executive vice president at Veeva. "We look forward to bringing the industry together to share effective strategies and insights that advance commercial excellence."

The event is open to life sciences industry professionals. Register and see the full agenda and program details at veeva.com/Summit.

Story continues

Additional Information

To register for Veeva Commercial Summit, visit: veeva.com/Summit/Register Connect with Veeva on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/veeva-systems

About Veeva Systems

Veeva is the global leader in cloud software for the life sciences industry. Committed to innovation, product excellence, and customer success, Veeva serves more than 1,000 customers, ranging from the world's largest pharmaceutical companies to emerging biotechs. As a Public Benefit Corporation, Veeva is committed to balancing the interests of all stakeholders, including customers, employees, shareholders, and the industries it serves. For more information, visit veeva.com

Contact:

Alison Borris

Veeva Systems

925-226-8821

alison.borris@veeva.com

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SOURCE Veeva Systems
Same Combination of Characteristics as a Nearby Field That Produced 89 Million BO

ARDMORE, OK - (NewMediaWire) - April 17, 2023 - VPI has announced a new oil development project in Noble County, OK. After 17 successful projects and 47 wells drilled with no dry holes, VPI is partnering with Ed Kaiser, a Petroleum Geologist who has spent a lifetime mapping 1000 square miles of Skinner and Red Fork Sands. This discovery has the same combination of characteristics as a proven field that has produced 89 million barrels of oil only a few miles away.

Dan Sauer, VPI President, commented that "we are pleased and excited to partner with Ed in realizing the culmination of a lifetime of dedication to his profession. In fact, the Oklahoma City Geological Society awarded him a prestigious Achievement Award for his work."

"We have every reason to believe this project will be as successful as the one a few miles away especially with the incredible team of experts we have assembled."

VPI will be presenting this project for the first time to accredited investors at the Las Vegas Moneyshow at the Paris Hotel on 4/24 through 4/26. VPI will begin drilling the first well soon and will offer right of first refusal on future wells in the development to early round investors.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Vertical Petroleum Industries

Dan Sauer, President

(580) 798-0653

info@verticalpetroleum.com
Fortune Business Insights

According to Fortune Business Insights, the global virtual power plant market size is projected to reach USD 6.47 billion by 2028 from its value USD 0.88 billion in 2021, at CAGR of 32.89% during forecast period.

Pune, India, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The virtual power plant market size to hit USD 6.47 billion by 2028. The global market size was valued USD 6.47 billion in 2020 and USD 0.88 billion in 2021. Increasing demand for renewable energy, advancements in technology, government policies and incentives & rising energy demand to boost market demand. Virtual Power Plants provide a flexible and reliable solution. Additionally, growing awareness in virtual power plant have led to increased investment in the technology and infrastructure, further driving market growth. The increasing acceptance of innovative technologies such as cloud platforms and the internet of things (IoT) applications in the power industry will have an excellent impact on the markets development, states Fortune Business Insights, in its report titled Virtual Power Plant Market, 2021-2028.

Key Development:

July 2020: In Portland, Oregon, the Portland General Electric Company announced a pilot initiative to encourage the installation and connection of 525 home energy storage batteries. This project will generate up to four megawatts of electricity. The distributed assets will build a virtual power plant of tiny units that may operate independently or in concert to service the grid.

Request a Free Sample Copy of the Research Report: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/request-sample-pdf/virtual-power-plant-market-101669



Virtual Power Plant Market Scope:



Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2021-2028 Forecast Period 2021 to 2028 CAGR 32.89 % 2028 Value Projection USD 6.47 billion Base Year 2020 Market Size in 2021 USD 0.71 billion Historical Data for 2017-2019 No. of Pages 207 Segments covered By Technology, End-user, and Region Growth Drivers Growing Shift towards Distributed Generation to Aid Market Dynamics Increasing Demand for Combined Renewable Energy & Growing Investments in Energy Storage to Foster Growth



Market Drivers & Restraints:

Story continues

Rising Emphasis on Distributed Generation to Push Growth

Energy is created and delivered utilizing small-scale technologies such as wind turbines, solar cells, geothermal systems, and micro hydropower plants in today's decentralized energy distribution networks worldwide. During power outages and periods of high energy demand, distributed generating systems, especially when coupled with heat and power and emergency generators, can be utilized to provide electricity. Increased attention on decarbonization, electrification, digitalization, and improvements in power production and storage technologies are major reasons hastening the transition to distributed energy. Due to the cost-effectiveness of renewable technology, distributed generating is becoming more popular. Furthermore, local and state government policies and laws support the greater deployment of renewable technologies because of their benefits, such as cheaper CAPEX and energy security driving the virtual power plant market growth.



COVID-19 Impact:

The COVID-19 pandemic is rapidly spreading throughout the world. Almost every country is experiencing the epidemic at a different level. Developing economies like India and China were successful in the early phases of COVID-19 containment and are continuously deploying new steps to reduce the virus's harmful effects. European countries have also seen a major drop in IT infrastructure investment. According to the International Data Corporation (IDC), due to the COVID-19 issue, which continues to affect the European economy, European IT investment in software, hardware, and IT services is expected to fall by 4.7 percent in 2020 USD 487 billion.

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/virtual-power-plant-market-101669



Regional Insights:

Growing Use of Renewable Energy to Bolster Growth in Europe

North America is expected to have a substantial market share because of the huge number of VPP deployment projects sanctioned in the United States and Canada. SimpliPhi Power, for example, launched a virtual power plant demonstration project in Louisiana in May 2020. The European Union is investing heavily in renewable energy and energy storage systems, driving demand for VPPs. Statkraft's virtual power plant in Germany, for example, is Europe's largest and first of its type. It produces more than 10,000 megawatts of power, which is the equivalent of ten nuclear reactors. As a result, Europe's rising use of renewable energy increases demand for VPPs in the area.

Quick Buy - Virtual Power Plant Market Research Report: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/checkout-page/101669

Competitive Landscape:

Major Companies Focus on Mergers and Acquisitions to Strengthen their Position

The market is consolidated owing to the remarkable distribution network of major companies in developed and emerging economies. ABB, Autogrid, Next Kraftwerke, and AGL Energy are the leading players in the market, accounting for a dominant share in 2020. Small players such as Limejump, Flexitricity, and Kiwi Power hold a small stake in the global VPP market. Supportive government initiatives for the growing renewable industry and an increasing number of mergers and acquisitions have led to intense competition in the market.

List of Key Players Covered in the Report:



ABB (Switzerland)

Siemens (Germany)

General Electric (U.S.)

AGL Energy (Australia)

Schneider Electric (France)

Enel X (U.S.)

Cisco Systems, Inc. (U.S.)

Bosch (Germany)

IBM (U.S.)

Hitachi, Ltd. (Japan)

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (Japan)

Next Kraftwerke (Germany)

AutoGrid Systems, Inc. (U.S.)

Blue Pillar, Inc. (U.S.)

Enbala Power Networks, Inc. (U.S.)

Have Any Query? Ask Our Experts: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/speak-to-analyst/virtual-power-plant-market-101669

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  For Major Countries Latest Technological Advancement Regulatory Landscape Industry SWOT Analysis Porters Five Forces Analysis

Qualitative Analysis  Impact of COVID-19 Impact of COVID-19 on the Virtual Power Plant 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 Virtual Power Plant Market Analysis (USD Billion), Insights and Forecast, 2017-2028 Key Findings / Summary Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Technology Demand Response Distributed Generation Mixed Asset Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By End-user Industrial Commercial Residential Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Region North America Europe Asia Pacific Latin America Middle East & Africa

North America Virtual Power Plant Market Analysis (USD Billion), Insights and Forecast, 2017-2028 Key Findings / Summary Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Technology Demand Response Distributed Generation Mixed Asset Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By End-user Industrial Commercial Residential Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Country U.S Canada

Europe Virtual Power Plant Market Analysis (USD Billion), Insights and Forecast, 2017-2028 Key Findings / Summary Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Technology Demand Response Distributed Generation Mixed Asset Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By End-user Industrial Commercial Residential Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Country Germany U.K. France Italy Spain Russia Rest of Europe



Competitive Analysis Company Market Share Analysis, 2020 Company Profile ABB



Business Overview Business Segment Product & Service Offering Overall Revenue Recent Development



Continued

Get your Customized Research Report: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/ask-for-customization/virtual-power-plant-market-101669

Fortune Business Insights offers expert corporate analysis and accurate data, helping organizations of all sizes make timely decisions. We tailor innovative solutions for our clients, assisting them address challenges distinct to their businesses. Our goal is to empower our clients with holistic market intelligence, giving a granular overview of the market they are operating in.

Contact Us:

Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd.

US: +1 424 253 0390

UK: +44 2071 939123

APAC: +91 744 740 1245

Email: sales@fortunebusinessinsights.com




Key Insights

Given the large stake in the stock by institutions, Diversified Energy's stock price might be vulnerable to their trading decisions

The top 15 shareholders own 51% of the company

Insiders have been buying lately

Every investor in Diversified Energy Company PLC (LON:DEC) should be aware of the most powerful shareholder groups. With 76% stake, institutions possess the maximum shares in the company. In other words, the group stands to gain the most (or lose the most) from their investment into the company.

And so it follows that institutional investors was the group most impacted after the company's market cap fell to UK911m last week after a 4.3% drop in the share price. Needless to say, the recent loss which further adds to the one-year loss to shareholders of 9.6% might not go down well especially with this category of shareholders. Often called market makers, institutions wield significant power in influencing the price dynamics of any stock. Hence, if weakness in Diversified Energy's share price continues, institutional investors may feel compelled to sell the stock, which might not be ideal for individual investors.

Let's delve deeper into each type of owner of Diversified Energy, beginning with the chart below.

Check out our latest analysis for Diversified Energy

What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About Diversified Energy?

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.

Diversified Energy 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 Diversified Energy, (below). Of course, keep in mind that there are other factors to consider, too.

Story continues

Institutional investors own over 50% of the company, so together than can probably strongly influence board decisions. We note that hedge funds don't have a meaningful investment in Diversified Energy. The company's largest shareholder is M&G Investment Management Limited, with ownership of 6.6%. The second and third largest shareholders are abrdn plc and BlackRock, Inc., with an equal amount of shares to their name at 4.9%. In addition, we found that Robert Hutson, the CEO has 2.5% of the shares allocated to their name.

After doing some more digging, we found that the top 15 have the combined ownership of 51% in the company, suggesting that no single shareholder has significant control over the company.

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. There are a reasonable number of analysts covering the stock, so it might be useful to find out their aggregate view on the future.

Insider Ownership Of Diversified Energy

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.

Insider ownership is positive when it signals leadership are thinking like the true owners of the company. However, high insider ownership can also give immense power to a small group within the company. This can be negative in some circumstances.

Our most recent data indicates that insiders own some shares in Diversified Energy Company PLC. This is a big company, so it is good to see this level of alignment. Insiders own UK31m worth of shares (at current prices). Most would say this shows alignment of interests between shareholders and the board. Still, it might be worth checking if those insiders have been selling.

General Public Ownership

The general public-- including retail investors -- own 20% stake in the company, and hence can't easily be ignored. 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 Diversified Energy better, we need to consider many other factors. For example, we've discovered 3 warning signs for Diversified Energy (2 are concerning!) that you should be aware of before investing here.

If you would prefer discover what analysts are predicting in terms of future growth, do not miss this free report on analyst forecasts.

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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JAKARTA, Indonesia, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Paragon Technology and Innovation (Paragon Corp), the parent company of renowned halal skincare brand for women Wardah, and Kahf for men, is excited to announce a collaboration with Garuda Indonesia Airlines to enhance the experience of Umrah and Hajj pilgrims. Along with this partnership, the company is introducing a skincare special for Umrah & Hajj Packages, designed for those embarking on the sacred journey.

(Jakarta, 4/17) CEO of Paragon Corp, Harman Subakat, and Wardah Brand Ambassador, Dewi Sandra, handed out the exclusive collaboration packages of Wardah and Kahf with Garuda Indonesia to the pilgrims on flight route GA 980 Jakarta-Jeddah. (PRNewsfoto/PT Paragon Technology and Innovation)

The exclusive Umrah & Hajj Packages are available at www.garudashop.garuda-indonesia.com

Carrying 400 pilgrims directly from Jakarta to Jeddah, Garuda Indonesia's Boeing 777 with flight number GA 980 took off on April 17, 2023. During the flight, the female passengers received an exclusive collaboration product, 'Journey of Soul' Umrah & Hajj package by Wardah and Kahf's 'Towards New Beginning' Umrah and Hajj package for the male passengers. Wardah's The Journey of Soul package comprises The Head-to-Toe Cleanser, Sun Shield, Intensive Moisturizer, Anti-Perspirant Deodorant, and Multipurpose Sanitizer. While the Towards New Beginning package by Kahf includes Refreshing Hair & Body Wash, Face Wash, Face & Body Sunscreen, Anti-Perspirant Deodorant, and Multipurpose Moisturizing Balm. Both packages will also contain a Zam-zam Spray Bottle, a guidebook for Umrah and Hajj, and each package will come in a pouch or a drawstring bag to carry conveniently.

These non-alcohol and non-fragrance products of Wardah and Kahf are carefully curated with natural ingredients and improved formulations to maintain moisturized, clean, and healthy skin in extreme weather and climate, ensuring the pilgrims comfortably and confidently embark on their #PerjalananBerkahPenuhMakna (meaningful journey).

Harman Subakat, CEO of Paragon Corp, said, "We are delighted to offer these Umrah & Hajj Packages to support and bring comfort during their pilgrimage. We want our consumers to have the best experience during their sacred, spiritual journey and rest assured that their skincare needs are cared for by a trusted brand."

Story continues

As a national flag carrier, Garuda Indonesia consistently strives to support local products and therefore highly appreciates the partnership, says Irfan Setiaputra, Director of Garuda Indonesia, "This collaboration with Paragon is part of our commitment to support local industries and accelerate the national economy recovery by providing a platform to introduce the local halal-certified products, especially for our valued customers."

For more information about Paragon Corp and its brand portfolio, visit www.paragon-innovation.com.

Media Contact:

Wilda Arginisa

Public Relations Executive

wilda.arginisa@paracorpgroup.com

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SOURCE PT Paragon Technology and Innovation
Company Logo

Dublin, April 18, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Antimicrobial Resistance Diagnostic Markets, Strategies and Trends by Pathogen and Technology, With Executive Guides and Customization 2023 to 2027" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

We have identified the 6 Key Large Pathogen Opportunities in this space and developed market forecasts. We profile over 30 companies, large and small, working in this area.

Diagnostics are leading the charge in reducing the threat posed by antimicrobial resistance. Will these technologies solve the problem before new antibiotics come along? New diagnostic technologies, beyond gene sequencing, are under development to capture this growing market.

The publisher has looked at the technology picture, giving you plain language understanding of the different ways pathogens, and infections, can be diagnosed.

Key Topics Covered:

1 Market Guides

1.1 Antimicrobial Resistance - Strategic Situation Analysis

1.2 Guide for Executives and Business Development Staff

1.3 Guide for Management Consultants and Investment Advisors

2 Introduction and Market Definition

2.1 The Threat and Opportunity of Antimicrobial Resistance

2.2 Defining the Opportunity

2.2.1 Revenue Market Size

2.3 Methods and Sources

2.4 Perspective: Healthcare and the IVD Industry

2.4.1 Global Healthcare Spending

2.5 Spending on Diagnostics

2.5.1 Important Role of Insurance for Diagnostics

3 Overview of a Dynamic Market

3.1 Players in a Dynamic Market

3.1.1 Diagnostic Test Developer

3.1.2 Instrumentation Supplier

3.1.3 Chemical/Reagent Supplier

3.1.4 Pathology Supplier

3.1.5 Independent Clinical Laboratory

3.1.6 Public National/regional Laboratory

3.1.7 Hospital Laboratory

3.1.8 Physicians Office Lab (POLS)

3.1.9 Audit Body

3.1.10 Certification Body

3.2 Understanding Antimicrobial Resistance

3.2.1 What is Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)

3.2.2 Bacteria and Other Microbes

3.2.3 The History of Antibiotics

3.2.4 The Role of Animal Husbandry

3.2.5 The Implications of Horizontal Transfer

3.2.6 The Threat of AMR

3.3 The Changing Road to New Antibiotics & Technologies

3.4 The Key Role of Diagnostics in AMR

Story continues

4 The Market Opportunity of AMR

4.1 The Key Large Market Opportunities in AMR

4.1.1 Streptococcus Pneumoniae (DRSP)

4.1.2 Campylobacter (DRC)

4.1.3 Clostridium Difficile (CD)

4.1.4 Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)

4.1.5 Neisseria gonorrhoeae (DRNG)

4.1.6 Salmonella (DRNTS)

4.2 Diagnostic Technology Development Opportunities

4.2.1 What's Wrong with Microbiology

4.2.2 The Features Battleground of Infectious Disease Diagnostics

4.2.3 Multiplex vs. POC/Rapid

4.2.4 The Miracle of Genetics

4.2.5 From Multiple Pathogens to All Pathogens - The Next Next Generation

4.2.6 Gene Sequence Diagnostics WITHOUT the Sequencing.

4.2.7 Markers of Resistance.

4.2.8 What Happens to the Microbiology Lab?

5 Antibiotic Resistance Diagnostics Recent Developments

5.1 Antibiotic Resistance Recent Developments

5.1.1 Importance of These Developments

5.1.2 How to Use This Section

5.2 FDA Clears New bioMerieux Diagnostic System and Panel

5.3 Selux Diagnostics Phenotyping System Gets FDA Approval

5.4 New diagnostics to tackle drug resistant infections

5.5 Takara Bio USA, Inc. and BioExcel Diagnostics Partner for Infectious Disease Panels

5.6 Three companies join forces to tackle antimicrobial resistance (AMR)

5.7 T2 Biosystems Exercises BARDA Option

5.8 OpGen to Ramp up Use of Acuitas AMR Gene Panel

5.9 BD Partners With Pfizer, Wellcome to Study AMR Dx

5.10 Sepsis Test Developers Accelerate Plans

5.11 OpGen Receives FDA Clearance for AMR Panel

5.12 Visby Medical - Rapid Uptake of Handheld PCR Test for STIs

5.13 MicroGenDx, OrthoKey Clinic and OrthoKey Surgery

5.14 BioMerieux Receives CE Mark for Vitek Clinical Microbiology System

5.15 Hologic to Acquire Mobidiag

5.16 Campylobacter strains exchange genes

5.17 Disinfection spreads antimicrobial resistance

5.18 Molzym, Fraunhofer Developing Rapid Sepsis Dx

5.19 Illumina, IDbyDNA Build NGS-Based Respiratory Panel

5.20 Accelerate Diagnostics Expands AMR Testing

5.21 Rapid diagnostics linked to optimal antibiotics

5.22 Visby Medical Wins AMR Diagnostic Competition

5.23 DNAe Technology SARS-CoV-2 Sequences

5.24 Infections with foodborne bacteria becoming harder to treat

5.25 Dust is sharing antibiotic resistance genes

6 Key AMR Diagnostics Companies

6.1 1928 Diagnostics

6.2 Abacus Diagnostica

6.3 Abbott Laboratories

6.4 Accelerate Diagnostics

6.5 ADT Biotech

6.6 Beckman Coulter Diagnostics

6.7 Becton, Dickinson and Company

6.8 Binx Health

6.9 bioMerieux Diagnostics

6.10 Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc.

6.11 Cepheid (Danaher)

6.12 Curetis N.V. / Curetis GmbH

6.13 Day Zero Diagnostics.

6.14 Enzo Biochem

6.15 Eurofins Scientific

6.16 Fusion Genomics.

6.17 GeneFluidics

6.18 Genetic Signatures

6.19 Great Basin Corporation

6.20 Hologic

6.21 Hutman Diagnostics

6.22 Inflammatix

6.23 Linear Diagnostics.

6.24 Lumos Diagnostics

6.25 Millipore Sigma

6.26 OpGen

6.27 Ortho Clinical Diagnostics

6.28 Perkin Elmer

6.29 Qiagen

6.30 Roche Molecular Diagnostics

6.31 SeLux Diagnostics

6.32 Sense Biodetection

6.33 Siemens Healthineers

6.34 Sysmex

6.35 Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.

6.36 Visby Medical

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/clb2nx

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




XI'AN, China, April 18, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2023 Qinchuangyuan Talent Activity Week (the Talent Week), co-hosted by the Party Working Committee of Xixian New Area and Xi'an Jiaotong University, achieved great success. The Talent Week, guided by the Talent Office of the Shaanxi Provincial Party Committee as well as the Talent Office of the Xi'an Municipal Party Committee, is to amplify the overall capability of talent attraction in Xixian.

It is the first large-scale series of activities based on the construction of the Qinchuangyuan platform, with the theme of cherishing talents, nurturing talents with care, attracting talents with dedication, and meticulously using talents. The aim is to strengthen Xixian's talent attraction and gathering platform capabilities through the construction of the Qinchuangyuan platform.

The overall concept of the Qinchuangyuan Talent Activity Week includes sections such as the Talent Summit Forum, Global Talent Seeking, Talent Lecture Hall, Entering Qinchuangyuan, and Science and Technology Innovation Achievement Exhibition, with over 30 different activities organized.

The involvement of well-known universities such as Xi'an Jiaotong University and Northwest Polytechnical University, leading enterprises such as LONGi Green Energy and Tonly Heavy Industries, as well as Xixian Education and Health System, allows the global talent list of Qinchuangyuan to find favorable arrangements.

There are over 400 employers with 25,000 positions available, and employers are able to share job requirements through offline promotion as well as online live streaming. Cloud services such as job search and resume submission are also provided on the Qinchuangyuan Platform Talent Service Cloud.

Xixian New Area and Xi'an Jiaotong University have also signed a pilot strategic cooperation agreement built on the foundation of Three Pools and One Mechanism. Both sides will cooperate in growing the School Recruitment Sharing talent pool, fund pool, project pool, and a corresponding docking mechanism for the Qinchuangyuan platform, accelerating the gathering of high-level talents, promoting the on-site transfer and incubation of scientific and technological achievements, and further strengthening the four main functions of Qinchuangyuan General Window.

Story continues

In the future, Xixian New Area will build a Talent Block for Qinchuangyuan in three dimensions: Talent, Industry, and Talent Seeking. It will continue to publish Talent-seeking Rankings on the Qinchuangyuan Platform Talent Service Cloud website.

Media Contact

Name:Cheng

E-mail:rencai_qcy@163.com

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WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen on Thursday will lay out the Biden administration's principal objectives for the U.S.-China economic relationship in a speech in Washington, the Treasury said on Tuesday as tensions between the world's two largest economies has thwarted high-level meetings.

Yellen, who said last week she still hopes to visit Beijing to meet with her new Chinese economic counterparts, will deliver remarks at Johns Hopkins University's School of Advanced International Studies, the Treasury said in a statement.

Yellen's speech will detail the Biden administration's economic priorities on China, including securing U.S. national security interests, fostering "healthy" competition and cooperating, where possible, on global issues such as climate change, debt relief and macroeconomic stability.

Yellen also is expected to highlight U.S. economic strength.

"During her remarks, Secretary Yellen will underscore that in its bilateral relationship with China, the United States proceeds with confidence about the enduring fundamental strength of our economy," the Treasury said, adding that she will discuss growth-enhancing investments in infrastructure, advanced semiconductor manufacturing and clean energy technologies.

The scheduling of the speech follows last week's International Monetary Fund and World Bank Spring Meetings, where Yellen interacted with Chinese finance officials, including People's Bank of China governor Yi Gang, in plenary meetings and in a roundtable meeting aimed at ways to speed debt relief to poor countries.

After U.S. President Joe Biden's meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the G20 Summit in Bali, Yellen has had several interactions with Chinese counterparts, including a meeting in January in Zurich with then-Vice Premier Liu He, at which they agreed to enhance communications on macroeconomic and finance issues.

Story continues

In-person meetings since then have been delayed by the controversy over the downing of a Chinese surveillance balloon that transited the continental U.S., and tensions over Taiwan president Tsai Ing-wen's meeting with U.S. House of Representative Kevin McCarthy.

A Treasury official said the speech comes at an opportune time just after Yellen also spoke last week with counterparts from G7 democracies, Australia and New Zealand. Another audience for the remarks is China's new economic leadership team led by Liu's replacement, Vice Premier He Lifeng.

Yellen will lay out U.S. priorities for "securing our national security interests and protecting human rights, including taking targeted actions to advance our vital interests where needed," the Treasury said.,

She also will stress the need for "healthy, and mutually beneficial, economic competition with a level playing field for American workers and businesses, including by working with our allies to press China on its unfair economic practices," the Treasury added.

(Reporting by David Lawder; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama)
A Spotsylvania County woman whose drunken wrong-way trip on Interstate 95 resulted in the death of a teenage girl in 2021 was ordered Monday to serve 10 years in prison.

Taylor M. Andujar, 29, was sentenced by Judge Ricardo Rigual to a total of 51 years with all but 10 years suspended. She had previously pleaded guilty in Spotsylvania Circuit Court to aggravated involuntary manslaughter, four counts of DUI-maiming and DUI.

The convictions stem from a Sept. 9, 2021, incident on I-95 in Spotsylvania that resulted in the death of 14-year-old Jarliz Sanchez. Jarliz and her family were on the way from New York to Georgia for a funeral when their GMC Yukon was struck by a 2021 Toyota Sequoia driven by Andujar.

Four of Jarlizs siblings were also seriously injured in the crash. They never made it to the funeral in Georgia, which was for yet another sibling.

Andujar had made a U-turn on the highway and was driving north in the southbound lanes when the crash took place. The evidence presented by prosecutors John Ackerman and Stephanie Fitzgerald showed that her blood-alcohol content was .20, more than twice the legal limit, two hours after the crash.

The evidence showed that Andujar had several mixed drinks while working at a Fredericksburg bar that night, then went to at least two other bars and had more drinks. Several people noticed how intoxicated she was, and one offered to pay for rides home that night and back to pick up her vehicle the next day, but she declined the offer.

She got on the interstate near Central Park in Fredericksburg and drove about six and a half miles before making an abrupt U-turn south of the Massaponax exit. A short time later, she hit the Sanchez familys vehicle.

Andujar on Monday repeatedly expressed remorse for her actions, and she promised to spend the rest of her life trying to make it up to the Sanchez family.

Im not an evil person, but I can understand why youd think so, Andujar said to family members Monday. Im so very sorry for being the villian in your story.

Andujar said she didnt feel like she was too drunk to drive that night and said the grief she feels has spurred thoughts of suicide. She said the last thing she remembered before striking the Sanchez vehicle was missing her exit.

Defense attorney Robert McClain asked Rigual for a sentence within the recommended state sentencing guidelines, which called for a maximum active sentence of 11 years and three months. He said that while she made a horrible decision, she still needs the chance to be a wife and a mother to her four children.

Ackerman questioned the sincerity of Andujars apologies Monday. He produced messages and phone recordings from the jail in which she did not seem to take responsibility for her actions.

In order to have redemption, there has to be a geniune acceptance of responsibility, Ackerman said. She only shows remorse when it serves her purpose.

Ackerman asked the judge for a sentence above the guidelines, but the judge decided otherwise.
The Habitat homeowner just wanted to set the record straight.

Someone assumed that Fremont Area Habitat for Humanity had given her a free home.

She responded very adamantly that the home was not free, that she was making her payments, that she purchased the home, and that she helped build the home, said Joy McKay, FAHH executive director.

The woman, whos lived in the home almost 20 years, will pay it off next year. She appreciates how homeownership has benefited her family.

After moving into the house, she was able to go back to school and now has a good job in the medical field. Today, her son is in college and her daughter, whos had health issues, is working at a job she enjoys.

(The homeowner) said they would not have made it if they had not had the stability of the house, McKay said.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the local affiliate of a global, nonprofit, Christian-based organization that works to provide decent, affordable housing by constructing, rehabilitating and preserving homes.

In light of its three-decade anniversary, the Fremont-based affiliate will host Habitat Homecoming on Saturday, April 22. The public is invited to the fundraising event.

The social hour starts at 5:30 p.m., with dinner and the event at 7 p.m. in Hopkins Arena on the Midland University campus. Cost is $65 per individual ticket or $750 for a table sponsorship for a table of eight people if purchased by Wednesday.

Tickets are available on the website at fremonthabitat.org or by coming to the office at 701 E. Dodge St., and paying with a check between 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Wednesday. Those wishing make a general donation also may do so on the website or at the office.

The 2023 fundraiser is featuring five couples competing to see who will become the Homecoming King and Queen.

McKay said the couples have been working to raise money, because the largest portion of the scoring involves whomever raises the most funds before and during the event. Donors can vote for and contribute toward their favorite couple via the website.

The couples will participate in a talent contest in their formal wear.

FNBO is the event sponsor and First Lutheran Church is the corporate sponsor. Almost 30 businesses are table sponsors.

We do get a lot of support from the community, which is wonderful, she said. What our contestants are doing is amazing.

The couples are: Keith and Lisa Kramme; Scott and Tammy Barker; Ed and Kristine Steffensmeier; Daviaire and Sidney Dickerson; and Jeremy Prchal and Jessica Donahue Prchal.

Past pageant participants will help judge the event.

The fundraiser also includes a silent auction with items ranging from a large patio heater to gift certificates to restaurants. The silent is live so people can bid on the items via the website.

McKay said the 92 homes have been built since the Fremont area affiliate began in 1993.

Were working on two more right now and are looking to start a third this year as well, McKay said.

In addition, the local Habitat affiliate has two home repair projects in process right now. Information about the nonprofits repair program can be found on its website.

McKay cites the importance of Habitats mission.

We believe that everybody deserves a decent place to live so we partner with families in the community who could not otherwise afford to purchase a home, McKay said.

She points out that Habitat families make mortgage payments.

They just have zero percent interest so it makes the payments affordable, she said.

Habitat families also are involved in whats called sweat equity.

If theres one adult in the home, they have to put in 250 hours working on construction primarily. If there are two adults in the home, they have to put in 350 hours, McKay said.

A family with a single adult can have some people help them with a limited number of hours.

In addition, Habitat conducts classes on home maintenance, budgeting, lawn care and other topics for homeowners.

Habitat helps people give their families hope for the future, helps grow their assets  so it helps them financially  and puts them in a safer and more affordable living situation, McKay said.

A survey of more than 400 Habitat Metro Denver Families indicate that children raised in a Habitat home are twice as likely to go to college, compared to the local average for similar demographic and economic groups.

Habitat Canada homeowners report an average 5.2% increase in income. They displayed improved health behavior and showed greater community engagement.

McKay said the local woman, who became a Habitat homeowner almost two decades ago, is very proud of having purchased her home.

She was grateful for having a hand up, but she did not want a hand out, McKay said.

The nonprofit plans to build more homes in the future.

Well always need funding, McKay said. We could build a lot more homes if we had a lot more funding. We always need volunteers, especially on the construction site.

McKay encourages the public to attend the fundraiser.

We always have a great time at our fundraisers, McKay said. I would encourage people to support our contestants, because they are brave and deserving for what theyre doing to help this organization.
The astronaut who will pilot a mission around the moon in 2024, Victor Glover, said at the Space Symposium in Colorado Springs Monday it's important to listen to people who are skeptical of spending billions on the space program and help ensure the value of space is made clear.

He noted some of the disparities in society that existed in the late 1960s when humans first went to the moon are still prevalent today. Glover, who will be the first person of color to fly a lunar mission, said he regularly listens to a spoken word poem written in 1970, that expresses frustration over investment in space when Americans were hurting.

So when concerns over spending come up, Glover said he respects those perspectives.

"Sometimes the most important thing we can do is listen," he said.

When he is asked about why we should invest in space, he explains the return can be three to sevenfold.

Glover is headed to space as part of a 10-day mission around the moon, known as Artemis II, at a time when the investment in space in both the government and private sectors is booming. The trip will be the first crewed moon mission in 50 years and it is part of a plan to send a crewed mission to Mars, a NASA news release said.

To ensure the country does not see another 50-year gap in long-distance manned missions, Glover said inspiring the younger generation to pursue careers in the field is key. Enrollment in science and engineering undergraduate programs has been falling nationally for about five years and is down by 100,000, said Tom Roeder, a data analyst for the Space Foundation earlier in the day.

Filling positions left behind by retiring Baby Boomers will be critical to support national security and prosperity, Glover said.

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"Inspiration is making a whole generation of young people want to go out and study science and engineering and technology in school, to go out and drive our economy places its never been," he said. "... And have the ability to solve the complex challenges that we dont even know are coming."

Glover will pilot an Orion spacecraft built by Lockheed Martin, a company with facilities in Denver that is also deeply invested in Artemis missions and cutting edge technology for it.

For example, the vehicle management computers are 25 times faster than those on the International Space Station, a company news release said.

The Artemis II mission will test NASA's Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecrafts life-support systems, the agency said. It will also take humans out into an orbit they have never been in before, Glover said. Training for the mission will start in June and last 18 months.

NASA recently announced the four people who will crew the mission and in addition to Glover, it features the first woman and first Canadian on a lunar mission, the agency said.

The international component of the Artemis missions could also have the ability to ensure longevity in space exploration, Glover said.

For Glover, an experienced astronaut, the assignment is bigger than anything he ever dreamed about as a kid, he said. However, he said he would turn down a mission to visit the lunar surface after so many personal space experiences including serving on the SpaceX Crew-1, which spent 168 days in space.

"I have absorbed more universe awesomeness than I deserve," he said.
The annual Space Symposium, the largest gathering of commercial, military and governmental figures in space technology in the world, returns to Colorado Springs this week as more and more nations and companies look to the stars  and as NASA prepares for a long-awaited return to the moon.

The six-day event at The Broadmoor is expected to draw 14,000 attendees from more than 40 countries. The attendance total is up from 10,000 last year and will be enough to fill 30 hotels. Visit Colorado Springs estimates the symposium will generate more than $16 million in economic impact from filling hotel rooms, restaurants and other tourist venues.

This years symposium also will have 230 exhibits spread across 110,000 square feet of exhibition space. Lockheed Martin and Kratos also will have outdoor exhibits featuring their Mobile User Objective System and a special space Hummer, respectively.

This year (the symposium) is going to be bigger than any of the others. It is the greatest space show on earth  a hell of way to go out, said Tom Zelibor, who will be presiding at his last such event before retiring as Space Foundation CEO June 30.

The symposium's agenda, featuring more than 260 speakers, will include:

 Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall

 Gen. B. Chance Saltzman, Space Force chief of operations

 Gen. James Dickinson, commander of U.S. Space Command

 Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro

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 Jong-Shinn Wu, director general of the Taiwan Space Agency, who will be part of panel discussion of emerging space nations at a time of growing political and military tensions with China.

This years symposium will again feature half-day tracks, or extended programs, on space law, space science, space classified, game-changers, workforce and "new-generation leaders," all held at the nearby Cheyenne Mountain Resort.

The foundation also will hold another free Family Symposium from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday at its Space Discovery Center, 4425 Arrowswest Drive, focusing on science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics and featuring a panel of former astronauts.

Key to the symposium's popularity are the opportunities it offers to create relationships that lead to new space ventures.

This is an opportunity where you can get the world space community  government, civil, commercial, military and research (organizations) from every continent but Antarctica  together for one week in one location. It allows these people to meet, partner, share and build relationships that take everything they do to the next level, said Rich Cooper, a foundation spokesman. That deal-making happens not only on the exhibit hall floor but continues at dozens of receptions, parties and other events during the symposium spread throughout the resort's 2,500-acre campus.

Dan Tenney, vice president of strategy and business development for Lockheed Martin Space in Denver, said the company participates in the symposium because it not only reinforces our investment in the space industry, but also our dedication to the Colorado community  especially since the event takes place in our own backyard. We look forward to showcasing our innovative products and talented workforce at the Space Symposium this year, and are eager to help enable robust solutions for our customers.

The symposium requires the efforts of all 110 foundation employees, an army of sponsors and exhibitors and 300 volunteers, who help with guest support and check-in, speaker and VIP support and security  and include a person who wears an astronaut costume for the entire event and is in high demand for photos with attendees.
Starbucks on Monday announced a new test pilot program at its coffee shops in Colorado, encouraging customers to bring in their own personal cup.

The pilot program is running at 192 participating stores across the Centennial State and is aimed at reducing waste.

We set a bold aspiration to become a resource positive company  to store more carbon than we emit, to eliminate waste and to conserve and replenish more freshwater than we use. This aspiration included setting ambitious 2030 targets to cut our carbon, water, and waste footprints in half, Michael Kobori, Starbucks chief sustainability officer, said in a post announcing some of the companys new tests to reduce waste. Innovation is how we will build our next chapter, advance our planet positive impact, and boldly reimagine our future together.

As an incentive to encourage customers to bring their own cup, Starbucks is giving 10 cents off the order. Rewards members would also get 25 bonus stars, up to three times per day.

The Seattle-based coffee chain said it chose Colorado as a test market for the program because customers in the state were already bringing in personal cups at a rate higher than the national average.

We selected Colorado for this test due to the customers in this market having a tendency to be early adopters with personal cup use, a Starbucks spokesperson told The Denver Gazette in an email. The spokesperson declined to share any data on the percentage of customers currently bringing in personal cups.

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The test runs from April 10 to June 30, and Starbucks says its the companys largest test on reusable cups it has ever run in the U.S.

Only clean cups will be accepted, and Starbucks partners will not be able to clean cups for customers, the Starbucks spokesperson said. We appreciate our customers bringing their clean personal cup and reminding their barista that they have their personal cup with them when they place their order at the drive thru. This is another small way were inviting our customers to join us in our efforts to reduce waste in our communities.

The spokesperson said Starbucks hopes to expand the program across the U.S. and Canada for every visit by the start of 2024.

The company said its goal is to create a cultural movement towards reusables by 2025, and in other markets it is testing a borrow a cup program in which drinks are sold in designated reusable cups which are later returned to stores and professionally cleaned.

Through testing, our goal is to learn how to offer customers a way to shift from single use cups toward a reusable to-go-coffee experience, in a way that is convenient, easy and enjoyable, while also providing a standardized and barista-informed solution, the Starbucks spokesperson said.
A coalition of mayors in 39 cities and towns in the Denver metro region opposes a sweeping land use bill pushed by Gov. Jared Polis and Democratic lawmakers.

The opposition from the Metro Mayors Caucus aligns with the position of the Colorado Municipal League, which represents 270 cities and towns in Colorado, and Colorado Counties, Inc., which speaks for all of the state's 64 counties, except Denver, Boulder and Broomfield.

In an open letter, the caucus said land use is just one solution to meeting affordable housing needs, and while the mayors' caucus supports some of the concepts around middle housing in the bill, its members have "serious concerns about the top-down process through which they are applied."

The caucus said it also doesn't believe the bill does enough to ensure that the resulting development will be affordable. The bill talks at length about affordable housing in its seven-page legislative declaration, and it includes a definition of affordability that equals no more than 30% of household income for low- and middle-income Coloradans.

It also includes numerous required consultation between local governments and affordable housing experts, but the bill doesn't require the housing  which is based on density of new units  to be affordable.

Municipalities have other options, the group said.

"With the passage of Proposition 123, legislative authorization of the Middle-Income Housing Authority, and thoughtful investment of one-time federal dollars, municipalities now have unparalleled investment opportunities," the group said, adding local governments should be allowed to use those opportunities first.

SB 213 could undermine that work, the group said.

Support for the groups position was not unanimous among mayors in the caucus, although a "supermajority" of those who weighed in backed the letter.

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According to the caucus' manager, 28 out of 39 mayors participated in the vote on the letter, and all but one supported it. Several others were unable to participate but are on the record as also being opposed to the bill, Catherine Kearney-Marinelli told Colorado Politics.

Boulder Mayor Aaron Brockett told Colorado Politics on Tuesday he was the sole opposing vote.

"Based on Boulder City Councils position of qualified support for state land use reform, I voted against that letter from the MMC. But they can still take a position if there are a small number of dissenters," he said.

Brockett is a member of the mayors' group, but he is also a member of the Boulder City Council's intergovernmental subcommittee, which recently recommended support for SB 213, contingent upon amendments. The council is expected to formally vote on the recommendations on April 20.

While Denver is also a member of the mayors' caucus, neither Denver City Council nor Mayor Michael Hancock has taken a position on SB 213, and no one from the council or the mayor's office testified either way during the April 6 hearing.

SB 213 requires municipalities to participate in housing needs assessments to be conducted by the Department of Local Affairs, but 14 cities in the caucus are already working on those assessments, which the mayors' letter called costly and time consuming. The caucus advocated for the Denver Regional Council of Governments to conduct that assessment, rather than DOLA.

The caucus also raised concerns about requiring multiplex zoning without first looking at the capacity in those communities for water, wastewater services and transit.

The group said that while it cannot support the bill, it backs partnerships between the state and local governments that would the following: "offset infrastructure costs; lower insurance premiums for condo developments; fund fast, frequent, and reliable transit service on key corridors; help cities apply for grants and technical assistance; and, finance deed restricted ADUs (accessory dwelling units, aka granny flats or in-law apartments)."

Senate Bill 213 is expected to be heavily amended when it comes before the Senate Local Government & Housing Committee, which could as soon as Thursday.
As two mothers with children attending DPS schools, we were brought together by a shared concern for the safety of our kids in the wake of the recent shooting at East High School. Our children are expressing feelings of hopelessness and fear, wondering if they will be safe at school. As parents, its heartbreaking to see our kids becoming numb to the violence that has become all too common in their lives.

Thats why we co-founded Resign DPS, a campaign group demanding that all board members of DPS permanently step down. We believe that DPS has failed in their responsibility to keep our children safe. The decision to place a high-risk student in East High School, despite prior weapon charges, and the lack of resources to serve these students, raises serious questions about the integrity of the DPS boards decisions.

Our kids are asking us questions like: Mom, are you still going to send me to East? I am really scared of high school. I feel like I am being sent into a war zone with all the shootings this school year. Or even more gut wrenching, showing signs of apathy  Im used to this stuff now, this is just how it goes. This is our world now. How do you answer these questions? How do you encourage your kid to go to school each and every day when in the back of your own mind you are panicked about their safety?

Traumatized adults cant help traumatized children. As parents we are hurting, and we know our principals and teachers are, too.

As most have read, the student who shot the two deans at East was arrested for weapon charges in 2021 prior to being expelled from a nearby school district and subsequently transferred into East High School. Daily, the deans had to pat him down for weapons. Many parents questioned the integrity of DPS decision to place a high-risk student into a dense, traditional high school that lacks the resources to serve these students. And many may not realize that even if there is a school resource officer, or SRO, in your school now, they wont be doing pat-downs. They are not legally allowed to. So we continue to put our kids and educators at risk.

This week, we learned at least 151 students were considered a high threat and 20 students are on pat-down protocols in Denver high schools. We hope you read that out loud  twenty more chances for another tragic accident this school year. In June 2020, against 17 DPS high school and middle school principals objections, the DPS Board passed the resolution to end its contract with DPD and remove SROs from the district. With the SROs removal, what actions did DPS Board take to risk assess and provide alternatives?

Parents also learned that in 2019, Principal Kimberly Grayson reported dozens of warnings and requests for help that she sent to DPS during her time at MLK Early College. All were ignored. Reading her story, we could only imagine what else we dont know about other Denver public schools principals and their ignored pleas for help.

An April 3, Denver School Leaders Association (DSLA) letter to DPS called for school safety changes. DPS has a history of overruling school leaders as at DCIS, where a school leader sought a restraining order against a student for a text sent, About to shoot up the school and only go for the principal. The school leader was told by DPS she would be kept from coming to school, not the student.

Despite numerous warnings, DPS Board has failed at its job by failing to consider, approve and enforce alternative approaches to keeping students safe following SRO removal.

These failures are due to a school board that is dysfunctional and ineffective. All one has to do is Google, DPS school board infighting. A long list of allegations of racism, misogyny, etc., will pop up among the results.

The YouTube videos of shouting matches among school board members speak volumes. We never voted to have our board participate in reality TV, but that is the show we are currently watching.

All of this while parents, students and teachers continually worry about what is going to happen at school next. How many more days of school will be missed due to a safety issue or lockdown?

What is going to be the long-term emotional and psychological impact on our children from experiencing this violence at school  assuming they arent the victim.

We respectfully request the DPS board to do the right thing and resign. If you agree, please sign our petition at: https://tinyurl.com/resigndps.

The status quo of allowing this board to continue its infighting is putting our kids, teachers, and administrators safety at risk. Our students, teachers and administrators lives depend on it.

Dorian Warren and Lynne Ly are parents of Denver Public Schools students and co-founders of Resign DPS.

Dorian Warren and Lynne Ly are parents of Denver Public Schools students and co-founders of Resign DPS.
A lab Lockheed Martin opened in Colorado two years ago to help it bring new space technology more quickly to the military, civilian and commercial customers is already paying dividends for the space and defense giant.

The 4,000-square-foot center in the Catalyst Campus for Technology and Innovation was built to bring Lockheed Martin engineers, researchers and other employees together with small and startup businesses to develop technology to meet the latest challenges in space. The center includes a virtual lab for those working on projects either in person or remotely can test out ideas and plans to evaluate their effectiveness.

Lockheed already is incorporating some early results in small satellites it will soon be building in Littleton for remote sensing, imaging, communications and many other military, civilian and commercial uses and can be manufactured and deployed both more quickly and at a much lower costs than most of the military and commercial satellites now in orbit, said Paul Pelley, senior director for advanced programs at Lockheed Martin Space in Littleton.

These satellites were developed digitally so they are adaptable, flexible and can be built on a production line instead of one, two or a handful at a time, Pelley said Monday at a briefing at the center designed to highlight the companys space-related projects.

The company has already started the production line in Littleton and is testing the small satellites so they can move into full production, though the company hasnt yet said when that will happen.

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Lockheed Martins briefing came a day before the company will unveil virtual reality simulation of its Lunar Mobility Vehicle at the Space Symposium, which opened Monday at The Broadmoor. Symposium attendees will be able to experience driving on the moon, which has just 60% of Earths gravity.

Dan Tenney, the companys vice president of strategy and business development, said Lockheed Martin formed a team of engineers and technical staff to rapidly develop new technology and products needed to respond to new space challenges. He cited several new satellites the company is developing for quick deployment, including those that will service other satellites, enable communication on the moon and for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance.

Tenney said Lockheed Martin is developing many of the new satellites without receiving military, government or commercial contracts first so it can demonstrate the technology for potential customers and get them launched and operating more quickly. Many of the satellites company officials showed off Monday have already been launched or will be launched later this year to demonstrate a specific technology or capability.

The company is using the same rapid-development approach to a variety of technologies and space vehicles the company is producing for missions planned to the moon and Mars. That includes satellites that will enable communications on the moon, a lunar mobility vehicle, a nuclear reactor to provide power on the moon and a rocket propulsion system that will use nuclear thermal power instead of the solid fuels all rockets use now in spacecraft.

Our vision is for a nuclear-enabled, water-based economy on the moon. We want to mine water for oxygen to breathe and hydrogen to burn. We will need a lot of power on the moon and be able to refuel there instead of having to only launch from Earth, said Kate Watts, Lockheed Martins vice president for mission strategy and advanced capabilities. We want to enable communication, transportation, surface mobility, power and habitation on the moon.
The companies that own The Citadel mall in east Colorado Springs are facing a lawsuit alleging substandard security practices filed by the family of a teen who was paralyzed in a shooting at the shopping center last year.

The lawsuit alleges mall ownership failed to employ adequate safety measures despite being aware of at least six shootings at The Citadel in the six-and-a-half years leading up to a fight that erupted into gunfire near the malls food court on May 12, 2022. Makayla Anderson, then 12, was shopping at The Citadel mall that day and was waiting for a ride home when she was struck by a bullet, paralyzing the lower half of her body.

This shooting is just one instance of gun violence at The Citadel mall that has made headlines in recent years.

April 3, 2023: Teen dead in officer-involved shooting

Just two weeks before the lawsuit was filed, an undercover surveillance operation culminated in a shooting in the Burlington Coat Factory, leaving a teenager dead, according to the Colorado Springs Police Department. Police were following a group of five people who arrived at the mall in two stolen vehicles on the afternoon of April 3.

Detectives are said to have followed the group on foot through The Citadel mall before making contact just outside the food court, prompting the group to flee. Four were arrested but one, 19-year-old Brandon Harris, allegedly fled to the Burlington Coat Factory where he and at least one police officer allegedly fired weapons.

Harris sustained an injury and later died at the hospital. His death is being investigated as a suicide, according to the El Paso County Sheriffs Office.

May 12, 2022: 12-year-old bystander paralyzed, second juvenile injured

Makayla Anderson was one of two people shot during the shooting on May 12, 2022.

The shooting in a parking lot at The Citadel mall allegedly stemmed from an altercation in the food court when a teenage girl began speaking to an ex-boyfriend, according to previous reporting by The Gazette. A shootout in the parking lot ensued, leaving two juveniles injured by gunfire.

A boy who was shot reportedly walked to his mothers home nearby and called the police. Police said they later identified him as the suspect in a May 6 shooting that sent two Mitchell High School students to the hospital.

The other person injured was 12-year-old Anderson, who didn't know anyone involved and was waiting for someone to pick her up, according to Monday's news conference.

March 25, 2022: Double murder follows mall parking lot fight

A shooting on the night of March 25, 2022, allegedly left two young men dead after what police described as a fight in the parking lot outside Dillards and Burlington Coat Factory.

At some point during the altercation, shots were allegedly fired, killing Matthew Westrich, 21, and Jeremiah Brown, 20, according to previous reporting by The Gazette. Two others were reportedly injured by gunfire.

June 18, 2021: Parking lot carnival shooting injures 3

Three people were reportedly shot at a carnival in a Citadel mall parking lot on June 18, 2021. Witness reports described several young men allegedly shooting at the crowd, sending three people to the hospital with injuries, a Gazette article reports.

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April 22, 2021: 1 injured in mall shooting

A victim sustained one non-life-threatening gunshot wound in an alleged shooting at The Citadel mall on April 22, 2021. Two people were detained after the incident, according to previous reporting by The Gazette.

Feb. 27, 2021: Shots after mall food court fight

A shots fired incident allegedly caused no injuries after several groups of teen or young adults were reportedly arguing or fighting in the food court area on Feb. 27, 2021. Outside the mall, at least one person allegedly pulled a gun and fired multiple shots before the groups ran off in different directions, according to reporting from The Gazette.

Jan. 2, 2020: Man shot outside mall

A man was injured after being allegedly shot in the torso outside of the Hooters at The Citadel mall on Jan, 2, 2020, according to The Gazette's reporting.

Sept. 12, 2019: Teen shot in leg in mall parking lot

A teenaged boy allegedly sustained one gunshot wound to the leg in The Citadels east parking lot on Sept. 12, 2019, according to previous reporting from The Gazette. He was reportedly transported to the hospital and treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

July 14, 2019: Shooting outside Burlington Coat Factory

One person was taken to a local hospital with a gunshot wound after an alleged shooting outside Burlington Coat Factory at The Citadel mall on July 14, 2019, according to an article from The Gazette.

Dec. 18, 2018: 3 injured in mall drive-by shooting

A drive-by shooting at The Citadel mall allegedly wounded at least three people just outside of Hooters on the afternoon of Dec. 18, 2018, a previous article from The Gazette reports. The gunfire shattered windows and forced the mall to close for the rest of the day just a week before Christmas.

An unnamed teenaged boy was arrested on suspicion of four counts of attempted first-degree murder and two counts of first-degree assault.

Dec. 8, 2018: Shots fired in mall parking lot

A suspect allegedly pulled a gun and fired several shots during an altercation outside The Citadel shopping mall in the afternoon on Dec. 8, 2018, according to reporting from The Gazette.

The shots were reported in a parking lot near the food court entrance. Several cars were allegedly in the parking lot when the incident occurred, but no injuries were reported.

Nov. 28, 2017: Shots fired

On the morning of Nov. 28, 2017, shots were allegedly fired in a Citadel mall parking lot. No injuries were reported, The Gazette reports.

Jan. 2, 2016: 3 injured in drive-by shooting

Three people were injured in what police said may have been an alleged drive-by shooting at or near the Hooters at The Citadel mall on Jan. 2, 2016. Shots were allegedly fired from a moving car into a cluster of people standing outside, according to previous reporting by The Gazette.
The family of a Colorado Springs teen who was paralyzed following a shooting at The Citadel mall in May of last year has filed a lawsuit against the companies that own the shopping center.

Stewart Miller Simmons, an Atlanta-based law firm representing Marjorie Bell and her daughter, Makayla Anderson, announced at a news conference on Monday that it is suing Citadel Mall Realty, Mason Asset Management and Namdar Realty, alleging substandard security practices that the law firm says led to the shooting.

They do not have the proper security at that mall, said attorney L. Chris Stewart. And that is why we filed a lawsuit and we will get justice not just for Makayla, but to protect every person in Colorado Springs.

Its when companies put profits over people that lives change, said Kelley Simoneaux of the Spinal Cord Injury Law Firm, part of the plaintiffs' legal team. And Makaylas life changed in a second.

On May 22, Anderson, then 12, was shopping at The Citadel mall when an argument between two groups erupted into gunfire. Anderson, who was reportedly waiting for a ride home, was struck in the chest by a bullet.

As a result of her injuries, Anderson is paralyzed from the waist down and has lost partial use of her right arm, Stewart said.

The lawsuit alleges that Anderson has endured, and will continue to endure, overwhelming pain, suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, psychological trauma, and post-traumatic stress disorder, all of which will require a lifetime of care that could cost tens of millions of dollars.

Stewart said the lawsuit will prove that the malls owners were aware of at least six shootings that took place at The Citadel between Jan. 1, 2016, and May 22, 2022, and failed to employ measures  including an increase in trained security personnel, working surveillance cameras and other potential deterrents  that could have prevented Andersons injury.

Clearly, (the malls owners) do not care about that mall or their patrons, Stewart said.

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Marjorie Bell, Andersons mother, said the shooting has permanently altered her daughters day-to-day life. Kayla, as Bell calls her, is in near-constant pain, struggles to sit up and has trouble with simple tasks like bathing, Bell said. Additionally, the family lacks the financial resources to make their home and van wheelchair accessible.

Shes in excruciating pain, Bell said. Its so heartbreaking to watch Kayla have to go through this. She cant even enjoy her life like a normal child anymore.

Simoneaux, who lost the use of her legs at 16 following a spinal cord injury, said the alleged negligence of The Citadels owners has fostered an atmosphere where violent crimes regularly take place, which led to the preventable incident that paralyzed Anderson.

A spinal cord injury is the most permanent, most expensive injury you can ever have in your life, Simoneaux said. Her needs are tremendous. And its up to the companies that have contributed to what Makayla has gone through, to do the right thing, and to change their practices, and do whats right for Makayla.

Namdar Realty and Mason Asset Management, which also own Chapel Hills Mall in Colorado Springs, said they could not comment on an ongoing lawsuit, but that their "thoughts and prayers" go out to Anderson and her family.

"Makayla is yet another victim of senseless gun violence across communities all around the United States, and it is our hope that she and her family can find peace and continue recovery during this difficult time," a representative said in a statement.

Stewart said the owners' future actions will prove, or disprove, their sincerity.

What (The Citadel malls owners) are doing is atrocious, Stewart said. This lawsuit, we pray, will stop that.

The lawsuit comes two weeks after an officer-involved shooting at The Citadel left a teen dead when at least one Colorado Springs police officer exchanged fire with a 19-year-old in Burlington Coat Factory. The shooting on April 3 was preceded by an undercover surveillance operation of a group on foot through the mall.

The mall was also the scene of a double killing in March 2022 when two young men died by gunfire after what police described as a fight in the parking lot outside Dillards and Burlington Coat Factory. At some point during the altercation, shots were fired and four people were hit, killing two men in their early 20s.
Letecia Stauchs daughter, Harley Hunt, denied any wrongdoing in Gannon Stauchs death, something that was contested by Letecia Stauchs defense on Monday.

Did you help your mom throw that suitcase over the bridge in Pensacola, Fla.? prosecutor Dave Young asked Hunt, near the end of her testimony on Monday.

No, I did not, Hunt said.

Click or tap here to watch live coverage from the trial.

Follow @ZachNDupont on Twitter for more updates from the courtroom.

Letecia Stauch is accused of stabbing and fatally shooting her 11-year-old stepson Gannon in 2020 in El Paso County and disposing of the youngster's body in a suitcase in Florida. She has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to all charges.

Over the course of Hunts testimony, which lasted the majority of Monday, she walked the prosecution through her moms actions in the days leading up to and following Gannons disappearance.

Hunt, who was 17 years old when Gannon disappeared, reviewed text messages between her and Stauch with the prosecution the day before, day of and days after Gannon was reported missing on Jan. 27, 2020.

Texts from Jan. 26 between Stauch and her daughter show that they talked about how the family went for a hike that day, and how Gannon had knocked over a candle and accidentally started a fire.

On Jan. 27, Hunt texted her mom that she was out in the community looking for Gannon.

The texts from Stauch to Hunt turned paranoid on Jan. 28, when Stauch asks her daughter what people are doing and saying in the home, and tells Hunt to not answer the door for anyone or to speak to police about Gannon.

"I have to get an attorney fast," Stauch texts her daughter on Jan. 28. "I've been set up."

Hunt added that Stauch was not in the home for the majority of the day, had the location on her phone turned off and didn't respond when Hunt asked her mom where she was.

Hunt testified that her mother's paranoia continued the next day, when Stauch said while driving that she believed someone was "following us," and that "it was weird" that Hunt had to pick up her mom from a Taco Bell later that afternoon when originally she believed she was picking her up from the hospital.

Last week, forensic nurse examiner Amanda Van Nest testified that Stauch had left her exam at the hospital on Jan. 29 early and did not return. Hunt testified on Monday that her mom had told her that she had left the hospital because she was "being treated unfairly" by medical staff.

Hunt testified that on Feb. 1 she and her mother left Colorado with little warning in a rented van, and that it didn't seem there was a firm plan for where they were going.

I just knew we were leaving, but I didnt know where we were going," Hunt testified. "I remember she kept just saying, 'Where do you want to live?'"

Hunt said Stauch bounced between options, saying first they were going to move to Texas, then Florida before finally deciding to move back to South Carolina.

Hunt testified that during the drive she never entered the back of the van, nor did she ever suspect there was anything in the back of the van she should be concerned about.

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"The thought never even crossed my mind. I never even questioned it, Hunt said of whether she believed Gannon's body was in the van.

Earlier in the trial, Stauch's brother Dakota Lowery testified that he believed he saw Stauch putting the suitcase in which Gannon's body was found into the back of the rented van on Feb. 1.

When Young pushed Hunt to answer why she didn't ask questions of her mother about the sudden move and paranoid behavior, she said it was out of fear of being hit with a "backhand," something Hunt said Stauch did often when she felt disrespected.

Hunt's involvement in Gannon's death was questioned by Stauch's attorney, Josh Tolini, during cross-examination. He asked Hunt how it was possible for her to never have entered, or even looked at, the back of the rented van the entire time she was in it.

"There was just never a need," Hunt said in response.

Tolini also brought up how the district attorney's office was considering pressing charges against Hunt for accessory to murder, but didn't after she came to Colorado to interview with prosecutors.

When Young asked why Hunt opted to speak with prosecutors, she said "because it was the right thing to do."

At the end of Hunt's testimony, Young asked if she ever believed Stauch had suffered from severe mental illness, which Hunt said she did not; if she knew right from wrong, which Hunt said she did; or if Stauch ever had more than one personality, which Hunt said she did not.

The prosecution has continued to ask every witness who had interacted with Stauch in 2020 questions about her sanity at the time. The questions about Stauch's sanity by the prosecution have continued to draw objections and significant cross-examination from the defense.

During cross-examination on Monday Tolini asked Hunt about an incident in Alaska where Stauch had threatened to kill herself, which Stauch had allegedly done several times in the past, and an incident in which Stauch had gone to the hospital for "mental health issues" while living in Charleston.

Hunt confirmed both incidents had happened, but that she was told her mother's hospital visit was due to her having cancer.

Tolini also referred to an incident where Stauch crashed her Jeep and she claimed she did so because she "saw her dead husband," but Hunt denied that was the reasoning for Stauch crashing.

During redirect, Young asked Hunt if she believed those incidents were genuine, or forms of manipulation, a word used by the prosecution often over the past two weeks of trial.

Im still in shock. I defended her for years. I just feel manipulated and lied to, Hunt said through tears, going on to say she believed her mother was innocent until recently.

The day ended when Young asked Hunt: "Do you still love your mother?"

Hunt burst into tears, did not answer and Young had the question struck from the record.

Stauch's trial will continue on Tuesday morning.
Nine former employees of Newmont CC&V Mining Corp. filed a lawsuit against the company April 11 in U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado. The suit alleges religious discrimination and retaliation by unlawful termination after the company denied their request to be exempt from taking the COVID-19 vaccine.

The nine refused the company mandate to be vaccinated and were terminated.

The lawsuit alleges Newmont forced every employee to violate their sincerely held religious beliefs or face termination of employment.

CC&V is aware of a lawsuit filed in federal court by former CC&V employees, said Katie Blake, sustainability & external relations manager with the Cripple Creek and Victor Gold Mining Co. We will not comment on the specifics of this lawsuit, other than to state that CC&V fully complied with the law with respect to the COVID-19 vaccine requirement and intends to vigorously defend this lawsuit.

The nine former employees who filed the lawsuit are Richard Grenfell, his brother Les Grenfell and his daughter, Katalyn Grenfell, Phillip Leck, Jonathan Elliott, Cody Schwab, Gordon Mundell, Austin Morris and Dwayne Johnson.

These are hard-working people who do labor-intensive work, said Steven L. Murray, with Murray Law, LLC, in Denver, who represents the nine employees. These are not officers but laborers.

Newmont announced the vaccine mandate on Oct. 19, 2021.

After the announcement of the vaccine mandate, each of the nine employees requested a timely, reasonable religious accommodation to the vaccine mandate, states the lawsuit.

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Along with the request, the employees explained to Newmont that their bona fide, sincerely held religious beliefs prohibited them from taking the COVID-19 vaccine.

The employees assert that Newmont discriminated in the depth of its questions about their religious beliefs and conducted an improperly invasive, discriminatory and retaliatory process in evaluating their accommodation requests.

The employees objected on many occasions to Newmont about its discriminatory questions and examination of their religious faith, the lawsuit alleges.

The lawsuit alleges that the employees are unaware of Newmonts granting any religious accommodation or exemption to the COVID-19 vaccine to any Newmont employee.

Newmont terminated each of the nine employees in January 2022.

In the lawsuit, Murray cites Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 that prohibits employers from engaging in religious discrimination in employment, and from retaliating against employees for engaging in lawfully protected activities, including objecting to their employer in this case, Newmont, about discrimination.

Title VIIs definition of religion is broad. Employees have the right to seek and receive reasonable accommodations to their religious faith and beliefs, even if the employer disagrees with the nature of their religious faith, Murray said.

The nine employees request a jury trial and seek back pay, compensatory damages, punitive damages, and other relief.
An early morning fire at the Colorado Gator Farm in Alamosa County claimed the lives of several rescue animals Tuesday.

According to the Mosca-Hooper Fire Department, the fire was reported around 4:30 a.m. Tuesday. Responding crews arrived at the farm around 4:35 a.m., with Alamosa Fire Department arriving to assist about 20 minutes later.

Officials said a section of a burn burned, resulting in the death of some rescue animals.

The Gator Farm released a statement through its social media saying that while no humans were injured, most of the animals located in the affected barn perished.

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Unfortunately, most of the rescue snakes, lizards, tortoises, parrots, and cats perished, the Colorado Gator Farm said on Facebook. 3 dwarf caiman and several turtles and tortoises were rescued.

According to the farm, fire crews are still investigating the cause of the fire, but no foul play is suspected.

We have hundreds of animals that are healthy that we still need to take care of. Prayers are appreciated. We will get through this, the statement reads.

All of the other alligators and crocodiles outside the building are fine, and everything in the fish building including turtles, fish and sharks are fine, the Gator Farm said.
The North Creek fire burning 50 acres in Beulah has reached 80% containment Monday afternoon, according to officials.

An update from the U.S. Forest Service, which is leading the fire response, said there is little smoke Monday as firefighters strengthen the edge of the fire. Firefighters are taking advantage of low wind conditions and upped containment from Sunday's 50% to 80% Monday.

On Sunday, the North Creek fire burned into a burn scar from the Junkins fire, which burned 16,832 acres in 2016. This slowed the progression of the fire, the Forest Service said. Crews dropped water and fire retardant with an aircraft around the blaze, built a fire line and worked to eliminate hot spots.

Custer County Road 387 remains closed at the intersection of 386 and people are asked to avoid the fire area. A red flag warning will be in effect for the area Tuesday.

The blaze has burned grass, brush and ponderosa pine southwest of Pueblo since sparking Saturday afternoon. Officials believe the fire was primarily caused by a campfire set by a hunter. A person of interest has been identified and the investigation is ongoing, the Forest Service said.

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Mandatory evacuations for the Red Mountain Youth Camp and surrounding areas in Beulah were lifted on Saturday and downgraded to pre-evacuation status.

Three wildfires in southern Colorado reached 100% containment last week as firefighters battled blazes amid record-breaking heat and red flag conditions. The 403 and Badger Creek fires in Park County are believed to also be human caused.

We would like to use this opportunity to remind everyone that many of our day to day actions can have the potential to cause a wildfire, the Forest Service said in a statement.

Always ensure that you dispose of any heat source properly, trailer chains are not dragging and campfires are built safely and extinguished completely, officials said. Remember, we are all responsible for our own actions and we all have the opportunity to prevent wildfires.
Voters are getting a glimpse of what is shaping up to be an ugly 2024 Republican presidential primary between the top contenders, declared candidate former President Donald Trump and undeclared Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL).

But while DeSantis's supporters are now more vociferously jumping to his defense, with the governor not expected to announce a campaign until Florida's 2023 legislative session concludes next month, he risks being defined by Trump while the governor and his allies criticize the former president for his temperament and policy positions amid his mounting legal challenges.

BIDEN TRIES TO BREAK THROUGH AS GOP PRIMARY BRAWL STARTS

Last week, Trump super PAC MAGA Inc. launched its second TV ad attacking DeSantis, claiming he sought cuts to Social Security and Medicare, in addition to trying to raise the retirement age to 70. The 30-second spot, which came after a $3 million buy last month, also mocks DeSantis for allegedly eating chocolate pudding with three fingers in a 2019 anecdote reported by the Daily Beast.

Two days later, Never Back Down, the DeSantis-aligned super PAC, hit back during Fox News Sunday with its first TV ad, asking, "What happened to Donald Trump?" and urging the former president to "fight Democrats," not "lie" about the governor regarding entitlement reform. The previous day, the group had described Trump as a "gun grabber" during a 90-second digit spot geo-targeted to the National Rifle Association's annual meeting in Indianapolis, Indiana.

"About time," Republican strategist John Feehery told the Washington Examiner. "Trump is starting to land some blows in defining DeSantis. About time that DeSantis starts fighting back."

But Claremont McKenna College politics professor John Pitney, a former Republican staffer, was uncertain about the Never Back Down ad's audience as Trump continues to dominate early polls. Months before the first GOP debate this summer in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Trump averages 52% of the primary electorate to DeSantis' 24%, according to RealClearPolitics. Simultaneously, Trump raised roughly $14 million during the first quarter of 2023, particularly around the time of his indictment in March.

"Here is the message: 'Trump is stealing pages from the Biden-Pelosi playbook,'" Pitney said of President Joe Biden and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. "Do the DeSantis people really think that they can convince Republicans that Trump is too much like Biden and Pelosi? That seems pretty unlikely."

"Here's the problem for DeSantis," he added. "From the standpoint of hard evidence, the strongest arguments against Trump are that he's corrupt, that he stole government documents, and that he illegally tried to overturn the results of the 2020 election. But Republicans don't like those arguments."

Former Texas Republican Party Chairman Tom Pauken, who no longer backs Trump, contended DeSantis's other problem is that Democrats "want" the former president to be the 2024 nominee. For Pauken, DeSantis is better positioned to win a general election than Trump, standing by the governor's decision to downplay Florida's new six-week abortion ban.

"Well, it got done," Pauken said. "He [came] down on the side of life. ... I understand that there's a great division over abortion. But he signed the law, and he's focusing on the issues that he's really been in the fight over, which is the wokeism and taking on Disney."

The ads underscore concerns related to Biden, the White House, and Democrats scrutinizing Republicans over Social Security and Medicare, as well as the tone for the GOP primary between Trump and DeSantis.

The Trump spots cite votes DeSantis took in 2013, 2014, and 2015 when he was a congressman to change Social Security and the retirement age, as well as votes in 2013 and 2015 to tinker with Medicare. In response, Never Back Down points to DeSantis saying last month that he is "not going to mess with Social Security" and comments Trump made in 2020 that he would "look" at entitlement programs "at some point."

Trump has more recently repeated that Republicans should not "cut a single penny from Medicare or Social Security." But his presidential budgets proposed decreases to the programs, and in 2012, Trump said then-GOP presidential standard-bearer Mitt Romney and vice presidential pick Paul Ryan's ideas would "save Medicare."

"We can also raise the age for receipt of full Social Security benefits to seventy," Trump wrote in his 2000 book, The America We Deserve. "We have to allow individuals to invest some portion of their Social Security funds in investments that are real and conservative. ... Privatization would be good for all of us."

MAGA Inc. spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt, who unsuccessfully ran for Congress in New Hampshire last year, even backed privatizing Social Security and upping the retirement age on the trail.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

A Republican operative supporting Trump's campaign quipped this was not "a smart road for the DeSantis camp to go down."

"His PAC's spokesman Matt Wolking used to praise Trump for building the wall and now claims he didn't," the source said. "The fact that they're responding to this shows how vulnerable they know they are on this issue."

Original Location: DeSantis supporters leap to his defense against Trump ahead of primary fight

Washington Examiner Videos
An 85-year-old white man has been charged in the shooting of Ralph Yarl, a black teenager who was shot in the head after he approached the wrong home when trying to pick up his younger siblings in Kansas City, Missouri.

Andrew Lester has been charged with assault in the first degree. The charge is a felony and carries a possible punishment of life in prison, according to the New York Times. Lester was also charged with armed criminal action  that charge carries a punishment of up to 15 years in prison.

DADEVILLE SHOOTING: WHO ARE THE VICTIMS OF THE ALABAMA BIRTHDAY PARTY SHOOTING?

Lester was taken into custody on April 13. He was released by police less than two hours later on April 14, according to CNN.

Officers responded to a home around 10 p.m. on April 13 after receiving reports of a shooting. Police discovered Yarl, 16, shot outside the residence by the homeowner. Yarl was "shot twice and struck in the head and arm," said Ben Crump, renowned civil rights attorney and counsel for Yarl's family.

On April 13, Yarl's parents asked him to pick up his younger siblings from an address at 115th Terrace, but he accidentally went to a home on 115th Street, per investigators.

"Ralph Yarl was picking up his younger brothers when he mistakenly rang the doorbell at the wrong house. A man shot Ralph twice and now he's in critical condition. His family needs support during this tragedy," Crump tweeted.

Protestors march Sunday, April 16, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo., to bring attention to the shooting of Ralph Yarl, 16, who was shot when he went to the wrong Kansas City house to pick up his brothers. (Susan Pfannmuller/The Kansas City Star via AP) Susan Pfannmuller/AP

A neighbor who called 911 after hearing the shots said Yarl came to her door bleeding.

"I wanted to help him, but they kept saying that we don't know where the shooter is at," the woman, who spoke to CNN under the condition of anonymity, said.

"I kneeled down next to him, and I said, 'What's your name?  Who shot you?" she said, adding that Yarl said he was "supposed to pick up my brothers."

"We figured out then he went to the wrong street, which is no excuse for what happened," she continued. "This is somebody's child. I had to clean blood off of my door, off of my railing. That was someone's child's blood. I'm a mom.  This is not OK."

Yarl has since been released from the hospital.

Crump and the family argue that the shooting was racially motivated. Crump said on CNN on Monday that the shooting "harkens back to Trayvon Martin and Ahmaud Arbery and so many of these other tragedies where you had citizens profile and shoot our black children and the police then let them go home and sleep in their beds at night. Unacceptable."

A GoFundMe for Yarl raised nearly $1.7 million as of Monday afternoon. Faith Spoonmore, the creator of the fund who identified herself as Yarl's aunt, said Yarl pulled into the driveway of the home and rang the doorbell on April 13.

"The man in the home opened the door, looked my nephew in the eye, and shot him in the head. My nephew fell to the ground, and the man shot him again. Ralph was then able to get up and run to the neighbor's house, looking for help," Spoonmore wrote. "Unfortunately, he had to run to 3 different homes before someone finally agreed to help him after he was told to lie on the ground with his hands up."

This undated photo provided by Ben Crump Law on Monday, April 17, 2023, shows Ralph Yarl, the teenager shot by a homeowner in Kansas City, Mo. (Ben Crump Law via AP) AP

Spoonmore said Yarl is a member of the Technology Student Association and Science Olympia Team, as well as a section leader in the marching band and "one of the top base clarinet players in Missouri." Yarl's goal is to attend Texas A&M and major in chemical engineering, according to his aunt. The funds from GoFundMe will be used for Yarl's medical bills and therapy, as well as college expenses for Texas A&M.

Ralph's teacher and friends describe him as "a kind soul," "quiet," "friendly," "well-mannered," "always willing to help," "super smart," and a "musical genius," according to Spoonmore.

Police Chief Stacey Graves said at this point in the investigation, with "the information that we have now, it does not say that that is racially motivated. That's still an active investigation. But as a chief of police, I do recognize the racial components of this case."

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

Graves assured community members during a news conference on Sunday that the police department is committed to the case.

"We recognize the frustration this can cause in the entire criminal justice process. The women and men of the Kansas City Police Department are working as expeditiously and as thoroughly as we can to ensure the criminal justice process continues to advance as quickly as all involved and our community deserve," Graves said.

Original Location: Eighty-five-year-old white man charged in shooting of black teenager in Kansas City

Washington Examiner Videos
By Luc Cohen

NEW YORK (Reuters) - U.S. prosecutors on Tuesday charged an alleged financier of Lebanon's Hezbollah with evading U.S. sanctions imposed on him by exporting hundreds of millions of dollars worth of diamonds and artwork.

The U.S. Treasury Department also unveiled sanctions on what it said was a vast international money laundering and sanctions evasion network, targeting 52 people and entities in Hong Kong, the United Arab Emirates and elsewhere over the payment and shipment of cash, diamonds, precious gems, art and luxury goods for the benefit of Nazem Ahmad.

The Treasury in 2019 sanctioned Ahmad for allegedly providing material support to Lebanon's Hezbollah, which Washington considers a terrorist organization. The move was intended to cut off access for Ahmad and 11 businesses associated with him to the U.S. financial system.

But federal prosecutors in Brooklyn said Ahmad worked with three family members and five other associates to continue dealing in diamonds and artwork, while concealing Ahmad's involvement. One of the alleged co-conspirators, Sundar Nagarajan, was arrested on Tuesday in England.

British police said Nagarajan's arrest was related to suspected terrorist financing and money laundering, which is believed to be connected to Ahmad, adding that extradition proceedings had began.

Ahmad remains at large.

The investigation "speaks to the unwavering commitment of the U.S. and U.K. governments to prevent art and diamond markets from becoming a haven of illicit financial activity," said Tae Johnson, acting director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, whose investigative arm probes sanctions violations.

Prosecutors said Ahmad in 2021 directly negotiated the sale of artwork with a New York-based artist, whom he instructed not to mention his name. Six paintings by the artist valued at nearly $200,000 were then exported to a Lebanese company used by Ahmad, prosecutors said.

In total, entities tied to Ahmad engaged in more than $440 million in financial transactions in violation of sanctions, including importing $207 million worth of goods to the United States and exporting $234 million worth of mostly diamonds and artwork, prosecutors said.

The Treasury's action imposed sanctions on dozens of people and entities in Lebanon, the United Arab Emirates, South Africa, Angola, Cote dIvoire, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Belgium, the United Kingdom and Hong Kong, and warned that Ahmad directs a global network that takes advantage of the permissive nature of the global diamond, precious gems and art market.

Earlier on Tuesday, Britain also sanctioned Ahmad over suspicions he was financing Hezbollah, which is backed by Iran. The British government said Ahmad has an extensive art collection in the UK and does business with several UK-based artists, galleries and auction houses.

(Reporting by Luc Cohen in New York; Additional reporting by Ted Hesson and Daphne Psaledakis in Washington; Editing by Jonathan Oatis and Deepa Babington)
U.S. District Court Judge Lewis Kaplan denied former President Donald Trump's motion to postpone a trial in which writer E. Jean Carroll accused him of assault and defamation. The trial is set for April 25, 2023.

Trump's attorneys filed the motion last week seeking to delay the trial in which Carroll sued Trump. The writer alleged Trump defamed her by calling her a liar when he denied her claim that he raped her in a department store dressing room in the 1990s. Carroll first sued in 2019 and added a charge of battery under the new Adult Survivors Act in November of 2022. The act allows victims to file a case outside the statute of limitations if the sexual assault happened when they were over the age of 18.

TRUMP LEGAL COUNSEL ASKS FOR DELAY IN E JEAN CARROLL DEFAMATION LAWSUIT

Lawyers moved to delay for four weeks, citing the surge in media coverage around Trump's indictment in connection to hush money payments between the former president and porn star Stormy Daniels.

"Jurors selected to hear Ms. Carroll's allegations against President Trump will have the breathless coverage of President Trump's alleged extra-marital affair with Stormy Daniels still ringing in their ears if trial goes forward as scheduled," Trump attorney Joe Tacopina wrote on April 11 to Kaplan. "To avoid this egregious violation of President Trump's constitutional rights, the trial should be adjourned for a brief period to allow the media frenzy to recede."

Kaplan's ruling highlighted that Trump's lawyers failed to prove that escalated media circulation around the former president is cause for delay, writing that part of the coverage had been brought about by his own team.

"There has been no shortage of recent news articles focused on Mr. Trump's own public statements on his social media platform and in press conferences and interviews he has given about his indictment," Kaplan wrote.

"It does not sit well for Mr. Trump to promote pretrial publicity and then to claim that coverage that he promoted was prejudicial to him and should be taken into account as supporting a further delay," he added.

Kaplan continued by acknowledging a shortage of impartial jurors will not be a factor because a preliminary examination to deem jurors suitable for service will commence per law.

"And it is important to recognize that the voir dire of prospective jurors in this case, whenever it occurs, quite likely will include inquiry into prospective jurors' awareness, if any, of Mr. Trump's various legal troubles  past, present and perhaps future  and jurors' ability and willingness to render a fair and impartial verdict in this case, regardless of any prior knowledge or attitudes," Kaplan said.

Kaplan's ruling came after Trump attorney Alina Habba wrote a letter to Kaplan urging a trial delay and raising concerns about Carroll's motive and credibility after discovering Reid Hoffman, the billionaire founder of LinkedIn, covered some of Carroll's legal fees.

"The eleventh-hour disclosure that Plaintiff's legal fees are being subsidized by American Future Republic and Reid Hoffman is troubling and raises significant questions that require further investigation," Habba wrote in her letter to Kaplan.

Kaplan rejected the move to push back the trial but ruled last week that Trump's lawyers could depose Carroll by this Wednesday for no longer than 60 minutes.

"The question whether and when plaintiff [Carroll] or her counsel have obtained financial support in this action has nothing directly to do with the ultimate merits of the case," Kaplan wrote in his order.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

Kaplan's Monday statement concluded by urging the trial to move forward as planned.

"It now has been more than three years since Ms. Carroll filed her first lawsuit against Mr. Trump alleging that he raped her in the mid 1990s," he said. "She now is over 79 years of age and is entitled to her day in court just as both parties are entitled to a fair trial."

Original Location: Judge denies Trump request to delay E Jean Carroll defamation lawsuit

Washington Examiner Videos
By Andrew Osborn

MOSCOW (Reuters) -Russia's Foreign Ministry summoned the U.S., British and Canadian ambassadors for a dressing down on Tuesday after they condemned the conviction of an opposition politician on treason charges.

A Moscow court jailed Kremlin critic Vladimir Kara-Murza - who holds Russian and British passports - for 25 years on Monday after a trial he and the West said was politically motivated. It was the harshest sentence of its kind since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022.

Kara-Murza, 41, had lobbied Western governments for sanctions that were later imposed on Russia and individual Russians for purported human rights violations, and condemned what Moscow calls its "special military operation" in Ukraine.

The Russian Foreign Ministry accused the three ambassadors of "crude interference in Russia's internal affairs and activity incompatible with their diplomatic status", Interfax news agency reported.

There was no immediate comment from the three embassies.

The U.S., British and Canadian ambassadors had made a joint appearance in front of TV cameras on the steps of the Moscow court on Monday to condemn the verdict against Kara-Murza and demand his release.

British Ambassador Deborah Bronnert delivered her remarks in Russian so that Russian-language TV channels could potentially broadcast them.

'SUBVERSIVE WORK'

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the foreign ministry called Bronnert's remarks "inappropriate" and "provocative" and said they ran counter to the British embassy's status and to diplomatic norms.

The ministry said the fact that Kara-Murza had a British passport in addition to his Russian one meant nothing in the eyes of Russian law.

Late on Monday, before the envoys were summoned, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova accused them of trying to pressure the judiciary and said diplomats who meddled in Russia's affairs risked being expelled.

"Any actions of the United States, Britain and Canada... aimed at inciting discord and enmity in our society will be dealt with in the most decisive way and the diplomats involved in this subversive work will be expelled from Russia," she said.

Zakharova said that people she referred to as "traitors... who are applauded in the West" will get what they deserve.

Britain on Monday summoned the Russian ambassador to protest against the verdict.

Kara-Murza himself compared his trial, which was held behind closed doors, to one of Josef Stalin's show trials in the 1930s.

Pro-Kremlin politicians said Kara-Murza deserved to be jailed for helping the West craft sanctions against Russia.

(Reporting by Andrew Osborn; editing by Angus MacSwan and Mark Heinrich)
Photo: The Canadian Press Alberta Premier Danielle Smith makes an announcement at the Chinese Cultural Centre in Calgary, Friday, April 14, 2023. Three Alberta cabinet ministers have confirmed the governments new media-question restriction policy will apply only to Smith. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh

Three Alberta cabinet ministers say the governments new question restriction policy for media applies only to Premier Danielle Smith.

Kaycee Madu, Adriana LaGrange and Demetrios Nicolaides took multiple questions at news conferences Monday and said the limits apply only to queries made of the premier.

The trio defended Smiths decision to begin limiting questions from reporters and news outlets from now through the May election campaign. They said they agree with Smith that it's a busy period and they want to make sure more news outlets get a chance to ask the premier questions.

They said its not about Smith trying to evade accountability.

I dont believe that to be true at all, said LaGrange, the education minister, speaking to reporters in Calgary. Ive seen the premier answer many questions and very difficult questions.

The premier simply is wanting to reach as many outlets and as many reporters and interviewers.

As the election ramps up, that's going to be more and more.

The election begins with a writ drop in two weeks, followed by polling day May 29.

Smith rolled out the policy Friday minutes before a government news conference. She announced she would take one question from each reporter to answer more questions. Shetook six questions and other reporterswere left standing in the question queue and on the phone line.

Journalists are traditionally given two questions or sometimes more if necessary to drill down and fill gaps or clarify positions.

Smith broadened the restriction Saturday, saying she will not take more than one question at a news conference from any single news outlet.

Smiths office did not respond Monday to questions about how the policy will work and if news outlets would be defined by their corporate parents or as subgroups, such as national versus regional news bureaus, bureaus within the same company in different cities or those that serve different linguistic groups, such as English and French services for CBC.

Larger news outlets often have more than one reporter call in or attend Smith's news conferences to ask questions on diverse topics unique to their beats or to stories they are working on.

Opposition NDP Leader Rachel Notley said the United Conservative Party premier's plan to limit questions to elicit more answers is nonsensical.

The way to answer more questions is to take more questions, Notley told reporters in Calgary.

If that takes a bit longer, because there's more folks that show up  then so be it. It's an election campaign, and that's what people would expect.

And obviously you need a second question, because sometimes the (initial) questions aren't answered fully. Sometimes additional questions arise. Sometimes it's a complicated issue.

Notley said Smiths handlers are seeking to keep her away from questions to avoid further embarrassing reversals and clarifications, as voters begin deciding on who will lead them for the next four years.

In recent days, Smith has given different reasons for why she spoke to an accused prior to his criminal trial related to COVID-19 protests. In a recorded call with the man, Smith is heard offering to make inquiries on the his behalf while sharing details and disagreements over Crown case strategy. Smith is now under an investigation by the ethics commissioner over that conversation.

Smith has also been criticized for giving varied explanations on who she spoke to and what she said to Justice officials relating to COVID-19 prosecutions. She has said she didn't understand how Canada's justice system worked and that premiers are not free to grant pardons.

Albertans deserve a premier who is competent enough in her record, in her plan, in her capacity to answer questions for mainstream media and, through that, to be held accountable to the citizens of the province, said Notley.

Smiths UCP, meanwhile, accused Notley of hypocrisy for chastising Smith while the NDP leader refused to take queries from the Western Standard news website at a Monday event.

Notley said she respects media and differing political viewpoints among media but cannot dignify an organization that she says, through its editorial policy, ignores human rights and dignity by promoting discrimination and hatred, particularly toward the LGBTQ community and members of Notleys caucus.

Notley said until the Western Standard retracts and apologizes for past stories, I simply cannot engage in any sort of normalization of that kind of conversation. It is a breach of our human rights code."

Western Standard publisher Derek Fildebrandt responded in a statement.

Rachel Notley is entitled to decide who she will take question from and how many, however hypocritical, said Fildebrandt.

She is not entitled to decide who is media and who is not. The Western Standard will never retract a story that contains no errors other than offending her sensitivities.
Gov. Kevin Stitt (R-OK) called for the resignation of multiple McCurtain County officials, including the sheriff, after leaked audio revealed inappropriate comments about lynching black people and killing two journalists.

Stitt said he was "appalled" at the conversation and called for the immediate resignations of Sheriff Kevin Clardy, investigator Alicia Manning, Commissioner Mark Jennings, and jail administrator Larry Hendrix.

DEVIL IN THE DETAIL: OKLAHOMA PARKS CATHOLIC CHARTER SCHOOL AFTER SATANIC TEMPLE WARNING

"There is simply no place for such hateful rhetoric in the state of Oklahoma, especially by those that serve to represent the community through their respective office," Stitt said in a statement on Sunday. "I will not stand idly by while this takes place."

FILE - Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt delivers his State of the State address on Feb. 6, 2023, in Oklahoma City. Stitt called for the resignations of several county officials on Sunday, April 16, in far southeast Oklahoma after the local newspaper released an audio recording of some of them discussing killing local journalists and hanging Black people. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki, File) Sue Ogrocki/AP

The FBI is investigating the sheriff and county officials.

Audio recordings show Clardy, Manning, Jennings, Hendrix, Commissioner Robert Beck, and commissioners' secretary Heather Carter having a graphic conversation after a March 6 meeting of the county Board of Commissioners, where one official longed for the days of lynching and joked about knowing hit men, according to the McCurtain Gazette-News.

Clardy began the conversation with an anecdote about a local who ran back into a fire to rescue her dogs, claiming that the county wrapped the woman's body "up in tinfoil to preserve the body" and making a joke about barbecuing her body. The conversation then shifted to Jennings's desire for the United States to bring back lynching.

"I'm gonna tell you something," Jennings allegedly said in the recording. "If it was back in the day, when  Alan Marshton would take a damn black guy and whoop their a** and throw him in the cell? I'd run for f****** sheriff. Take them down to Mud Creek and hang them up with a damn rope. But you can't do that anymore. They got more rights than we got."

The conversation also shifted into a discussion on hiring two or three hit men to kill two journalists, Chris and Bruce Willingham, who are father and son. Jennings told Manning, who is currently in litigation with Chris Willingham for alleged defamation and civil rights violations, that he knows where there are two holes dug and that he knows a few hitmen who would be quiet about killing the reporters.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

Stitt said he has ordered the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation to "initiate an investigation to determine whether any illegal conduct has occurred."

Bruce Willingham, who was responsible for the recording, has turned the full audio over to the FBI and the Oklahoma Attorney General's office, his lawyers told NBC News.

Original Location: Stitt calls for resignations of county officials who reportedly talked about killing journalists and black people

Washington Examiner Videos
Former President Donald Trump nabbed another key endorsement from Florida as state defections against his main rival, Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL), pile up.

Rep. Greg Steube (R-FL) endorsed Trump on Monday evening, contending that the former president is the only one who can rectify the "disastrous policies of the Biden administration." Trump, a Florida resident, has clinched roughly half a dozen endorsements from Florida's congressional delegation.

SEN. MARSHA BLACKBURN JOINS WAVE OF TENNESSEE ENDORSING TRUMP

"Today I continue my unwavering support for the America First movement by endorsing the leader of our party, President Donald Trump for re-election to President of the United States!" Steube tweeted along with a clip of a Newsmax interview in which he announced his decision.

Others from the Sunshine State delegation who have backed Trump include Reps. Byron Donalds (R), Matt Gaetz (R), Anna Paulina Luna (R), and Cory Mills (R). Overall, Trump has almost four dozen endorsements from sitting members of both chambers of Congress.

DeSantis has two so far, Reps. Thomas Massie (R-KY) and Chip Roy (R-TX), neither of whom come from Florida.

"We need to right all the wrongs that have happened under this administration, fix the things that happen in Afghanistan, support our military and our veterans, and do the things that the American first agenda stands for, and that is one person, Donald Trump," Steube said.

As he gears up for a likely 2024 run, DeSantis's team has contacted at least six members of Florida's congressional team, hoping to keep them from endorsing Trump, sources told NBC.

Trump recently enjoyed a wave of congressional Republican endorsements, with Reps. John Rose (R-TN) and Diana Harshbarger (R-TN), as well as Sens. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and Bill Hagerty (R-TN), backing him in recent days.

The Tennessee spate came ahead of the Trump campaign's announced leadership team for the Volunteer State, which featured some of those who endorsed him. It also followed the Republican National Committee donor retreat in Nashville over the weekend.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

DeSantis has yet to jump into the 2024 political arena but has consistently polled as Trump's chief primary threat. He is expected to make his 2024 intentions known sometime after the Florid state legislature wraps up its business in May.

The Florida governor is slated to participate in a meet-and-greet with Republican members of Congress in Washington, D.C., Tuesday as he crisscrosses the country to build up support ahead of his expected campaign.

Original Location: Trump clinches another key endorsement as Florida defections against DeSantis pile up

Washington Examiner Videos
By Anthony Boadle

BRASILIA (Reuters) -Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Tuesday condemned the violation of Ukraine's territorial integrity by Russia and again called for mediation to end the war, a peace initiative that was criticized by the Ukrainian government.

Speaking at a lunch with Romanian President Klaus Iohannis, Lula said a group of neutral nations must come together to help broker peace between Russia and Ukraine.

His comments came after he set off a storm among Western allies by stating over the weekend that they were prolonging the fighting by supplying arms to Ukraine.

A White House spokesperson accused Lula of "parroting Russian and Chinese propaganda without looking at the facts." And on Tuesday, the White House said Lula's "tone was not one of neutrality."

In Washington, a person familiar with the matter said U.S. officials have privately made clear the Biden administration's displeasure to Brazilian counterparts about Lula's criticism of the arming of Ukraine.

The White House did not immediately reply to a Reuters question on the purported contacts but late on Tuesday said in a statement that Biden's national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, had spoken with his Brazilian counterpart, Celso Amorim, about "a number of bilateral and global issues, including Russias war against Ukraine."

Earlier, Amorim had joined the war of words, calling the U.S. criticism "absurd" and insisting that Brazil did not share Russia's position.

"Brazil defends the territorial integrity of Ukraine," Amorim told Globo TV. But he added: "As long as there are no talks, the ideal peace for the Ukrainians and the Russians will not happen. There must be concessions."

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov visited Lula in Brasilia on Monday and thanked him for his peace efforts, remarking that Brazil and Russia shared views on the year-old conflict in Ukraine.

Lula has pitched himself as a peace broker to end the war, which began when Russia invaded the neighboring country in February 2022. His proposal, based on Brazil's tradition of non-intervention and neutrality, calls for a group of nations not involved in the war to engage both Russia and Ukraine in talks.

Ukraine has criticized Lula's proposal because it treats "the victim and the aggressor" the same way, and on Tuesday invited the Brazilian president to the war-torn country to see for himself the consequences of the Russian invasion.

Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesman Oleg Nikolenko said Ukraine was following with interest Lula's efforts to find a solution to the war. But he rejected the view Lula expressed over the weekend that countries arming Kyiv were prolonging war.

The European Union has also rejected Lula's suggestion that both Ukraine and Russia are to blame for the war. EU foreign affairs spokesman Peter Stano said all aid was aimed at Ukraine's "legitimate defense."

Lula has said Russia should return territory it invaded last year, but he has suggested Ukraine might sacrifice Crimea, which was occupied by Russian forces in 2014, a suggestion rejected outright by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy.

Zelenskiy has urged world leaders to adopt his 10-point peace plan which, besides calling for the withdrawal of Russian troops and a cessation of hostilities, proposes restoring Ukraine's original borders with Russia.

(Reporting by Anthony Boadle and Lisandra Paraguassu in Brasilia; Matt Spetalnick in Washington; Additional reporting by Nandita Bose and Trevor Hunnicutt in Washington; Editing by Brad Haynes, Cynthia Osterman and Lincoln Feast.)
By Humeyra Pamuk and Patricia Zengerle

(Reuters) - U.S. President Joe Biden's administration notified Congress on Monday of the planned sale to Turkey of avionics software upgrades for its current fleet of F-16 fighter aircraft, a deal valued at up to $259 million.

The deal, first reported by Reuters earlier on Monday, moves ahead with the sale of the modernization package for Turkey's aircraft, after leaders of U.S. congressional committees gave informal approval.

A larger agreement, NATO member Turkey's request to buy billions of dollars worth of F-16s, remains in limbo amid continuing opposition in Congress.

If it is cleared by Congress during the formal approval process, the package would be the first major military sale to Turkey that Congress has approved for years.

"Turkiye is a longstanding and valued NATO ally," a State Department spokesperson said in a statement. "The Biden Administration supports Turkiyes efforts to bring the avionics of its F-16 fleet up to standard."

The spokesperson noted that the upgrade will improve the interoperability between Turkish and NATO systems by updating its communications and also provide upgrades to enhance safety measures such as a ground collision avoidance system.

The F-16 modernization deal follows Turkey approving Finland's accession to the NATO military alliance and signs of easing tensions between Turkey and neighbor Greece ahead of Turkish elections next month.

Lockheed Martin Corp will be the principal contractor on the deal.

The package is separate from the proposed $20 billion sale of new Lockheed Martin F-16 fighters and nearly 80 modernization kits that Turkey requested in October 2021.

The smaller package was approved after the administration pushed the lawmakers to approve it to send a "positive signal" to Ankara, according to one source familiar with the deal.

The approval does not mean the bigger sale will receive a green light from Congress as U.S. lawmakers are seeking assurances from Turkey on issues that go beyond the Nordic NATO expansion.

Those issues include easing tensions with Greece for good, refraining from an invasion in northern Syria and enforcing sanctions against Russia.

Such conditions are likely to anger Turkey, which has said the United States had "endless" demands relating to the sale of F-16s and that Washington's behavior wasn't fair.

(Reporting by Humeyra Pamuk; Additional reporting by Patricia Zengerle in Washington; Editing by Doina Chiacu, Don Durfee and Grant McCool)
To the fringe lawmakers peddling the reckless justice reform agenda at the Capitol, police are a lot like room service. They are to be called if the pols own homes have been burglarized or their cars stolen  but otherwise should stop bothering the bad guys.

So, its only fitting some of those lawmakers now want to hang a Do not disturb sign on the doors of dangerous criminal suspects. Sure, they might be wanted for serious crimes and have lengthy, even violent records. They might be longtime fugitives from justice.

But, hey, sometimes it just isnt convenient for them to answer the door when the cops come calling.

Senate Bill 23-254, now pending in Colorados legislature, would limit the use of knock-and-announce as well as no-knock warrants  to 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thats right; no after-hours raids on the hideout of, say, a meth peddler suspected of robbing and shooting a convenience store clerk. Too bad if authorities got a tip on the suspects whereabouts, and this might be the only chance to arrest him. Its after 7, and he is binge-streaming Netflix right now, OK? Maybe tomorrow.

Make no mistake, the warrants are essential tools of law enforcement. They enable authorities to use the element of surprise to close in on a high-risk suspect. A team of top cops who are well armed and well trained either surrounds the location and announces its presence or, when necessary, is authorized by a no-knock warrant to break in. The no-knock team often enough is able to take the suspect into custody swiftly and without firing a shot.

The raids, which are rare, dont always go as planned. But even when things go wrong, its worth noting that  as in other law-enforcement encounters with suspects  it is usually the police themselves who are most in harms way. Which makes the case for continuous training and improvement  not curbing the warrants use.

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Restricting the time of day when such warrants can be carried out is of course absurd. Under the bill, only a judge could give police permission to pay a visit after hours. It amounts to yet another get-out-of-jail card issued to the criminal element by the justice-reform crowd.

The Colorado Association of Chiefs of Police and County Sheriffs of Colorado announced this week they are working to amend the bill in a few ways. (The proposal makes other changes, as well, to the use of the warrants.) One of the groups proposed amendments involves extending the hours a no-knock warrant could be carried out.

Law enforcement shouldnt be put in the position of having to beg for more time. Its ridiculous to place any time limits on the warrants. Law officers need to be able to carry out a no-knock arrest at whatever time is most effective for catching a suspect off guard. The legislature has no business micromanaging the policy.

Dangerous criminal suspects  who have lived lives of crime and victimized the public repeatedly  dont need a safe space where they can collect their thoughts and catch their breath. They need to feel they have nowhere to hide.

Legislation passed in 2021 called for a review of no-knock and forced-entry procedures. That review is complete, and some of its recommendations may have merit. But lawmakers can take them up separately.

SB 254 goes well beyond the scope of the recommendations. Its attempt to grant, essentially, office hours to criminal suspects is insulting. Rather than amending the bill, just kill it outright.
The theory of the Communists can be summed up in the single sentence: Abolition of private property. So said Karl Marx in his 1848 book, The Communist Manifesto. While very few in the Colorado State Legislature would self-identify as outright Marxist Communists, many of their actions and policies align with the Marxist philosophy against private property.

I would like to distinguish between the older Hard Marxism and the newer Soft Marxism. Under Hard Marxism, government seizes private property by outright force and takes collective ownership. That was the case in Cuba, North Korea, Communist China, the former Soviet Union, and elsewhere.

But Hard Marxism led to well over 120 million civilians being killed by their government, with billions more being impoverished and enslaved. The horrors of that system have been exposed and a Soft Marxism has spread in its place. Under Soft Marxism, government does not outright seize control of private property. Instead, government uses taxes and regulations to control the property. While property remains under private ownership, its use is controlled by government. This Soft Marxism has a lot in common with a Fascist form of economic organization, the conjoining of business and government. Government uses force or threat of force only when necessary.

But surely this cannot happen in Colorado, where property rights are enshrined in our State Constitution: That all persons have certain natural, essential and inalienable rights, among which may be reckoned the right of enjoying and defending their lives and liberties; that of acquiring, possessing, and protecting property; and of seeking and obtaining their safety and happiness. (Colorado State Constitution, Article II, Section 3) Sadly, property rights in Colorado have been eroded through Soft Marxism, and the erosion is accelerating. Governor Polis is pushing to bring all authority over housing to the State government. Here are just a few current examples.

SB23-184 Protections for Residential Tenants. This bill gives control to the State government of rental terms such as income requirements and security deposits.

SB23-213: Land Use. This bill authorizes centralized control to the State government of land use and development.

HB23-1115 Repeal Prohibition Local Residential Rent Control. This bill gives centralized authority to control rents to the State government.

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While the titles of these bills, and government control, may sound appealing to people who are struggling, the results inevitably lead to less availability. Centralized control at the State level is not confined to housing. Here is an example of Soft Marxism giving control of certain financial transactions to State government.

HB23-1229 Amending Terms Consumer Lending Laws. This bill gives the State government centralized authority to control the lending terms of small consumer loans.

These bills, and many more, are being done in the name of consumer protection and of affordable housing. Such tyrannical authoritarian rule is always presented for our own good, with no consideration of the long-run effects and unintended consequences.

The science of Economics teaches us that the highest level of human prosperity and flourishing happens under the conditions of free markets, private property, and the just rule of law. History shows that government control of markets and property through capricious law results in less prosperity and less flourishing, not more. The long-run effects and unintended consequences of increasing government control always result in fewer goods and services being available. Fewer goods and services also result in higher prices. These attempts to increase availability through the force of government are doomed to fail.

Jamie Diamond, CEO of one of the worlds largest and most powerful banks, JP Morgan Chase, has recently stated that force may be necessary to have government invoke eminent domain and seize private property by force, to create more wind farms and solar panel farms. This will all be for the greater good, Diamond says, in claiming to fight climate change. With this kind of corporate leadership, one must wonder at what point this Soft Marxism might morph back into the Hard Marxism of the past  control of the economy enforced at gunpoint or threat of gunpoint.

Do we want powerful special interests and government bureaucrats to decide what is the greater good? In Colorado, these Soft Marxists seem to have no end to their plans to control our private property. Busybody legislators keep seizing more and more tyrannical authoritarian control over our economy. Since We The People are the economy, then control of the economy must ultimately mean control over us.

We need to be reminded of the warning against government control and central planning, by the words of FA Hayek in his 1974 Nobel Prize lecture on Economics, The curious task of economics is to demonstrate to men how little they actually know about what they imagine they can design.

Paul Prentice is Vice Chair, El Paso County Republican Strategy Forum.
Speeding has become a habit

From a dictionary, I read that the word limit means the greatest amount or number allowed. The word minimum means the least possible or allowed. I would just like to remind drivers that a posted speed limit does not mean thats the minimum speed allowed. When I drive the speed limit on Interstate 25, I rarely overtake any other vehicles, while almost all vehicles going the same direction as me overtake me.

It seems most drivers interpret the speed limit to be the minimum speed they are to drive, and they proceed to drive 10 miles per hour, or more, above the speed limit. I have been driving for many years, and I still enjoy driving.

However, in recent years driving has become very stressful for me due to drivers exceeding the speed limit and following too closely. I refuse to believe that so many drivers can be late for an appointment or other urgent deadline. Speeding seems to have become a habit for many drivers. I believe if more drivers obeyed the speed limit, they would enjoy their journey, and theres a better chance they would arrive safely.

Lets all enjoy driving again, without the stress of excessive speed and following too closely.

Billy Hill

Colorado Springs

There must be change

Many parents seem confident when they watch their teen go to school. But little do they know; these children are learning mostly useless information through a dangerous and outdated environment. Many public high schools have a course of standardized material that is not strayed from. This material is picked based off what government officials consider important, which often excludes essential information, including taxes and budgeting, and includes useless information, such as the history of cave dwellers. Many tests on this information are also outdated. They are based on memorization and often centuries old works instead of learning and thinking, despite claiming to measure intelligence.

Additionally, the way they learn this information is severely obsolete and typically include a one-size-fits-all style of learning and little accommodation for those that learn differently or slower.

When students learn this way, they are also typically accompanied with tight, regulated schedules that they do not get to pick which leads to worse time-management for many students as they age.

With the regulated schedules and outdated learning style, creativity in classrooms is severely diminished and will likely lead to less creative adults.

Additionally, there are also several other issues, including the lack of support and the standardization of education by laws, that plague public schools across the country. This must be stopped, there must be change.

Public high schools are failing society and the children that are forced through it.

Ashley Creed

Colorado Springs

Fox guarding the hen house

Im writing because the El Paso Board of County Commissioners are voting on a resolution to appoint a County Commissioner Redistricting Commission on Tuesday, April 16, at 8 a.m. Per the resolution, the commission is to be made up solely of the members of the El Paso County Board of County Commissioners.

Why arent they appointing an Independent Redistricting Commission?

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This feels like the fox guarding the hen house, when the officials who are up for election are responsible for deciding their districts. The county commissioners are also asking that staff use current boundaries as a starting point.

Using current boundaries reinforces 50-plus years of gerrymandering.

According to El Paso County demographics there should be at least two competitive districts in El Paso County for Democrats however there hasnt been a Democrat elected since 1970.

I want to have faith in the redistricting process but the only way to do that would be with an Independent Redistricting Commission.

Zuri Horowitz

Colorado Springs

Jared Polis and higher office

In Colorado, abortion is legal throughout all nine months of pregnancy. In Colorado, Abortion has been legal since 1967. In Boulder Colorado, Warren Hern specializes in the late term killing of the preborn.

Now, thanks to the left-wing legislature under the leadership of Jared Polis, Colorado is an abortion sanctuary state.

Colorado has become one of the most extreme child killing states as a result of our one-party regime.

If you are an independent registered voter, I urge you to conduct some scientific research about pre-natal development. If you have an open mind, you will understand that science confirms a living human is being destroyed with each abortion. And if Polis does decide to throw his shameful hat into the ring, I pray intelligent voters will judge his decision to sign these three pro-abortion bills as anti-child and vote accordingly. He will continue to destroy our country should he achieve higher office.

To be pro-choice or pro-abortion is to be anti-science!

Bill Crow

Larkspur

State banning progesterone

Is our governor crazy?! Now hes banning the abortion reversal treatment using progesterone! So its OK to abort... but if you change your mind and want to save your baby Jared Polis has banned this use of progesterone!

You can murder your baby up to the date of birth but cant get help saving your baby. This is nuts.

Sue Gorden

Colorado Springs
Colorado's second-highest court last week ordered an El Paso County judge to hold a hearing on an incarcerated man's claim that he received constitutionally-ineffective assistance of counsel, based on his trial lawyer's decision not to call multiple witnesses who would have corroborated the defendant's alibi.

Antonio Jose Vargas Jr. is serving a 96-year sentence for kidnapping and an additional sentence of 48 years to life for sexual assault. A jury found Vargas guilty in 2009 and the Court of Appeals upheld his convictions in 2013.

Now, Vargas is asserting his trial lawyer was deficient for not presenting four witnesses: Vargas' son, mother, family friend and employee. Two of them would have testified Vargas was not with the victim the night of the crime, and the other two would have explained the victim did not appear injured or rattled the morning after the crime.

Such testimony, "if found credible, would seem to corroborate Vargas hotly disputed alibi," wrote Judge Craig R. Welling in the April 13 opinion of a three-judge appellate panel.

According to the evidence, Vargas abducted the victim, bound her hands and mouth, and took her to his property, where he sexually assaulted her. Vargas maintained he did have consensual sex with the victim two days earlier, but he was not with her the night of the assault. He offered a theory for why the victim would fabricate allegations against him.

In 2015, Vargas filed a petition for postconviction relief, claiming specifically his trial lawyer's performance dipped below the constitutionally-required level of effectiveness.

District Court Judge Gregory R. Werner held a hearing on one of Vargas' claims and found Vargas to not be credible. He then denied all of Vargas' claims for relief, including Vargas' contention that he was actually innocent.

The Court of Appeals panel agreed with Werner's handling of the case in part. Welling acknowledged in the opinion that it is unclear whether Colorado courts can act upon a claim of innocence that is untethered to a constitutional violation. But if an innocence claim exists, it has an "extraordinarily high threshold" that Vargas had not satisfied in this instance, Welling added.

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The panel then parted ways with Werner on Vargas' allegation that his trial lawyer neglected to call four witnesses who would have cast doubt on the victim's story.

Although one of Vargas' sons did testify that Vargas was at home the night of the kidnapping and sexual assault, Vargas' other son and a family friend would have also corroborated that alibi. At the time of trial, Vargas' non-testifying son was allegedly "on the run" and the prosecution was "unable to locate" the friend. However, there were no further details and no clear understanding of whether both witnesses were unable to testify.

"Because the record regarding (the friend) doesnt establish why defense counsel didnt call him to testify ... we remand this issue for an evidentiary hearing," wrote Welling, reaching the same conclusion for Vargas' son.

As for Vargas' mother and employee, both had breakfast with Vargas and the victim the morning after the crime. They now say they would have testified the victim did not appear injured and acted normally.

The prosecution argued to the Court of Appeals that the victim testified she "pretended to be fine," and additional witnesses would not have undermined her account.

"In our review of the transcript, however, there is no instance where the victim says she 'pretended' to be fine while eating," Welling countered. "While it may be true that some parts of the testimony by Vargas mother and his employee would have been consistent with the victims trial testimony, the proffered testimony, if credible, would seem to corroborate Vargas theory of defense."

The appellate panel returned the case to Werner for a hearing on whether Vargas' trial lawyer was constitutionally ineffective for failing to call those witnesses. Under U.S. Supreme Court precedent, Vargas must show the attorney's performance was below an "objective standard of reasonableness" and, in the absence of the attorney's errors, the outcome likely would have been different.

The case is People v. Vargas.
Gov. Jared Polis on Wednesday rolled out long-awaited legislation intended to address Colorado's dire shortage of affordable housing, which, if enacted, would include the first legislative change to land use planning in 50 years.

Accompanied by a bevy of local government, environmental and legislative leaders, the governor introduced the main proposal in the two-bill package, which relies on a five-point plan that includes both short- and long-term goals.

Supporters said the bill is the result of 125 meetings among municipal and county elected leaders from both parties, housing advocates, environmentalists, developers, labor and business leaders, and representatives of workers who need housing, which Polis called "an unprecedented coalition."

Already, the bill has attracted supporters, who argue it chips away at a regulatory structure that's choking growth, and critics, who describe it as a blatant power grab by the state.

The plan focuses primarily on urban and resort community housing, and leaves out any efforts to override local control for counties.

Municipalities, however, have the option of either adopting "flexible minimum standards" or being mandated to use a state-developed model, which would include zoning changes.

The Colorado Department of Local Affairs, which for years has had a collaborative relationship with local governments, will be put in the position of enforcing those mandates for municipalities that don't go along with the flexible option.

The flexible standards include ADUs  accessory dwelling units, also known as in-law apartments or granny flats  and so-called "middle housing", such as duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes and townhomes. Under those standards, the municipality can't require parking but the developer can add it. Resort communities have additional flexibility to work regionally on housing strategies that would allow them to find the best places for more dense housing.

For renters, municipalities can regulate short-term rentals for the housing listed above, with "affordability strategies."

The standards are different for non-urban municipalities of more than 5,000 residents, with only ADUs required under the bill to deal with affordable housing issues.

Should a municipality  whether urban or resort  decide to forego the "flexible" option, they would be required to use the statewide standard model, which would impose zoning requirements. Repetitive, already stated above.

Colorado Department of Local Affairs chief Rick Garcia told Colorado Politics his agency will still be in the collaboration business. The legislation is very specific about the enforcement process, Garcia said, but he thinks that, as the process moves forward, "we can find successes and more effectively cooperate and collaborate with local governments so that 'hammer' is not the only tool we have."

Fixed rail, rural resorts, dense housing

The second facet of the plan focuses on transit-oriented communities, also primarily targeting urban communities along the Front Range, including those with fixed rail, and rural resorts.

It could also include more dense housing near bus rapid transit or walkable commercial districts.

The bill outlines a series of either flexible minimum standards or state-mandated standards that apply to transit-oriented communities.

The intention is to reduce housing and transportation costs.

Under the flexible standards, municipalities can create different levels of multi-family zoning and choose from a menu of "affordability strategies," presumably provided by the state.

The state model would also impose more detailed zoning standards, with a "density bonus" for affordable projects.

The third facet deals with cutting red tape, which could allow for faster deployment of manufactured homes that can be built in just a few days but often have to wait a year or more to be placed on site. It would remove limitations for minimum unit sizes in urban communities, so long as those units comply with fire and building code standards. It would not, however, include units such as tiny homes.

The bill would lift occupancy standards based on familial relationships. In some communities, most recently Denver, there have been city code limits on the number of unrelated people who can live together.

Homeowners' associations would also be prohibited from blocking development such as ADUs, under the bill.

One issue around red tape is the legislative addition of requirements in building codes, such as a mandate that new multi-family developments include electric vehicle charging stations.

In 2022, Gov. Jared Polis vetoed a bill requiring those stations on new multi-family units. In his 2022 veto letter, the governor said the bill did not have enough flexibility "to adapt to changing infrastructure" and would add too much to housing costs. He also said charging stations ought to be where there would be the most use, not just in new buildings.

The 2022 bill's sponsor, Rep. Alex Valdez, D-Denver, introduced the 2023 version last week, but that measure is far less prescriptive than its 2022 predecessor.

The fourth and fifth points focus on longer term issues, such as creating a statewide strategic growth plan, and requiring municipalities to conduct regular housing needs assessments and housing plans aimed at dealing with gentrification, for example. The state has never had a strategic growth plan.

The bill would come with $15 million to provide technical assistance to local governments. That's in addition to money that came from the American Rescue Plan Act, Proposition 123 and other housing measures adopted by the General Assembly in the past two years.

The bill doesn't define just what is affordable, leaving that to each community to decide, based on the cost of living in those communities.

The second bill, however, is likely to be the most controversial: It would ban all growth caps, whether county or municipal. That would lift limits imposed in Lakewood, Golden and Boulder, for example.

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Rep. William Lindstedt, D-Broomfield, points to his own community as a response to growth limits imposed in Boulder decades ago.

Growth caps  which typically translate to limiting growth in residential communities  interfere with affordable housing, Lindstedt told Colorado Politics.

Breathtaking power grab

While the mayor of Boulder, Aaron Brockett, told Colorado Politics he had no problem with seeing Boulder's growth cap fade into history, the restrictions on municipal local control is already raising fire from other municipalities.

The main bill, at more than 100 pages, is "not the Colorado Way," said Kevin Bommer, executive director of the Colorado Municipal League, speaking on behalf of more than 1,800 elected city officials who he said will oppose the bill's "breathtaking power grab."

Although the bill is being sold as a menu of options with flexibility to create affordability, it mainly benefits developer interests to the detriment to the quality of life and access to local elected officials expected by Coloradans and with no guarantees that anything built will be affordable,'" Bommer said. "The League could support the bill if folks are willing to step away from a California-style, top-down approach, and support local government efforts to address density while guaranteeing affordable housing. Unfortunately, powerful special interests are more interested in preemptions than solutions."

A statement from Colorado Counties' John Swartout warned state preemption of local decision-making "could hinder local governments ability to incentivize affordability and private investment in our communities." The statement also noted there are constraints beyond beyond the control of local governments, including state regulation and permitting and access to adequate water, sanitation and other utilities. We believe that local planning is key and that everyone can promote more responsible growth management practices."

"We appreciate the considerable work that has been done to-date and we look forward to continued engagement with the sponsors and other stakeholders as the bill moves forward.

J.J. Ament, president of the Metro Denver Chamber of Commerce, said at the press conference that, as Colorado tries to recruit and retain businesses, having affordable places to work within reasonable commutes is essential.

"It's the economic competitiveness issue of the day," he said.

While the bill isn't perfect, the efforts to get input from people shows commitment to the cause by governor and legislature, he said, adding the message is "that we can collaborate on the issue of the day."

After the press conference, however, Ament raised some concerns about the regulatory structure that the bill doesn't address, as well as over other legislation moving through the Capitol that he said will interfere with the goals of the affordable housing bill.

The chamber's members  whether builders, developers or the small business owner who is trying to find a place for an employee to live  are aligned on this issue, Ament told Colorado Politics.

It's not a lack of capital or demand, he said.

"It's that the regulatory environment in Colorado is so cumbersome and burdensome that you cannot get it done," he said. "That's what's adding to prices."

The constraint is not whether builders will build, he said, adding, "It's the regulatory environment that won't let them build."

The bill isn't perfect but it's a huge step in the right direction, he said, with a message that says, "We will be able to now, as a matter of regional and statewide concern, eliminate some of the barriers around middle housing."

Middle housing typically refers to townhomes, duplexes and similar dwellings.

Housing conflict at the Colorado state Capitol

Trying to streamline some of these approval process at the local level will deliver housing more quickly, he said. But Ament also said other proposals at the state Capitol could conflict with the housing proposal.

"We need to remove regulatory barriers in local communities; what one community does impacts neighboring communities," he said, adding no community will do it on its own.

Ament said bills currently moving through the legislature  notably the right of first refusal, rent control, interference in the landlord and tenant relationship  need to die.

"You cannot on one hand support (the governor's proposal) that says we need attainable housing now and at the same time be supporting these other bills that are in direct competition," he said.

The bill doesn't address what might be the elephant in the room for affordable housing  litigation reform.

While the bill advocates for modular or manufactured housing, townhomes, duplexes, triplexes and other multifamily housing, it leaves out the one type of housing that is often the entryway for young families getting into their first home or seniors planning to downsize: condos.

Ament said there are few for-sale condos in Colorado, with litigation as the reason.

"It might be a bridge too far for this bill but it's something that must be addressed by future legislatures," he said.

When asked what statewide regulations he would be willing to address, Polis indicated the regulatory changes needed are primarily at the local level, and that he would be open to discussing statewide regulations that affect Colorado's housing stock.
Re: Prefers minority government

Writing as one of those certain individuals who object strongly to First Past The Post - Patrick MacDonald is correct in many respects. Majority governments do lead to abuse of power. And he is partially correct in that a minority government must agree to mutual cooperation with at least one other party in order to obtain the support of a majority of MPs to govern.

It is possible for a government to stand for several months or more, with a "majority" of usually around 40% as has happened in the past. However such situations tend to be short lived, existing only until a party, usually the "majority" party, thinks it can increase it's seat count to achieve a real majority.

However, the above does not solve the inherent problems of First Past the Post.

FPTP does not express the wishes of the voters. Hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of votes are wasted every election when voters cast their votes for a candidate that does not stand a chance of wining a seat. This is because in order to win a seat, it does not matter how many votes a party gets, if the votes are spread across the country or province and not concentrated, those votes are wasted. In countries such as the Scandinavian countries, which use proportional representation, almost all votes go towards electing someone.

Examples: in the last Quebec election, the 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th place parties all had about the same percent of the popular vote. However, the Liberals won 21 seats and the Conservatives won 0. That's democracy?

In the last PEI election, while the Conservatives only needed about 1,900 votes to win a seat, the Greens needed 8,000. That's democracy?

FPTP distorts the voice of the people. With proportional representation, every vote has equal value and the percentage of seats a party gets is equal to the % of the popular vote. That's democracy!

To underline the the above, I ask Mr. MacDonald this - Would you prefer for your vote to count sometimes, or perhaps not at all, OR, would you like to cast your vote knowing that it was definitely going toward increasing the seat count of your favourite party even if your local candidate didn't win?

Daryl Sturdy, Vancouver
Gov. Jared Polis' housing proposal faces what could be its most difficult day yet in the state Senate, where the chamber's Local Government and Housing Committee is set to on Tuesday afternoon review more than 50 pages of amendments to the 105-page bill.

Municipalities and resort communities all over the state have lined up to oppose the measure, and that is already holding sway over Democrats, including on the housing committee.

Sen. Dylan Roberts, D-Avon, is believed to be the swing vote. His northwest and central mountain district includes ski resorts such as Steamboat Springs, Vail, Winter Park and the ski areas in Summit County, almost all of which are opposed to the bill.

Roberts is not alone among Democrats believed to be opposed to SB 213.

Sen. Rachel Zenzinger, D-Arvada, believes there could be as many as six Democrats who won't vote for it. With a 23-12 majority, that's enough to kill the bill, assuming all Senate Republicans also are opposed.

Sen. Dominick Moreno, a Commerce City Democrat who is the sponsor of Senate Bill 213, told the housing panel nearly two weeks ago the bill is intended to resolve the state's affordable housing crisis. The goals, he added, include increasing housing supply, improving affordability, cutting red tape, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and ultimately lowering costs.

The bill, however doesn't require any of the housing that would be constructed due to SB 213 to be affordable.

That's expected to be addressed by multiple amendments in the Tuesday afternoon hearing.

One amendment would replace the bill in its entirety. The 29-page strike-below will be offered by Sen. Barbara Kirkmeyer, R-Brighton, who will replace Sen. Janice Rich, R-Grand Junction, for Tuesday's hearing.

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Kirkmeyer's amendment is backed by the Colorado Municipal League and Colorado Counties, Inc., among others. Its biggest change is to remove all the mandates from the introduced bill on local governments, whether in municipalities, rural cities and towns or ski resort communities.

The amendment addresses the affordability issue, requiring the Department of Local Affairs to come up with affordability strategies that would guide local governments on laws and policies that would encourage development of a range of housing types, focused on affordability.

The strike-below also takes DOLA out of the enforcement business. Under the bill as introduced, the agency would have been in charge of ensuring covered local governments either adopted "flexible minimum standards" or would be mandated to use a state-developed model, which would include zoning changes.

The amendment keeps in the range of housing types, such as accessory dwelling units and middle housing, such as townhomes, duplexes and fourplexes. But it takes out the largest units proposed under SB 213, known as six-plexes.

Supporters of SB 213, known as "More Housing Now," have at least a dozen amendments of their own.

One amendment addresses the affordability issue but with a long list of additional mandates on urban local governments, such as implementation of "local inclusionary zoning ordinances," creating a program to subsidize or reduce local development review of building permit, water and sewer tap fees and planning waivers; and the creation of an "expedited development review process for regulated affordable housing developments."

Another amendment applies in part to water. The bill's requirements around master plans state they must include the general location and and extent of adequate water supplies. A planning commissioner must consult with water providers within the county or region, including identifying water supplies and facilities sufficient to meet the needs of the public and private infrastructure identified in the planning process.

Water supplies also must include conservation policies, which could include goals laid out in the state water plan.

The Senate Local Government and Housing hearing begins at 2 p.m. Tuesday.
The leader of Colorado's newly created Behavioral Health Administration has been replaced just shy of 15 months on the job, Gov. Jared Polis announced Monday.

Dr. Morgan Medlock, who took became the administration commissioner on Jan. 18, 2022, is set to be replaced on an interim basis by Michelle Barnes, currently the executive director of the Department of Human Services, Polis' announcement said.

Polis' announcement didn't mention Medlock or why she is no longer in the position.

In a statement Tuesday, Polis spokesman Conor Cahill said, "The Governor thanks Dr. Medlock for her initial work in establishing a new state agency. The Governor looks forward to conducting a nationwide search and is optimistic and confident in Interim Director Barnes and the future of the BHA."

In Monday's announcement, Polis said that the Behavioral Health Administration was "developed during a crucial time of need in our state. The BHA has invested over $150 million in behavioral health services while improving accountability, and we are getting ready for the next phase.

A nationwide search for the new commissioner will begin in the coming weeks.

Barnes will be assisted by her senior executive team of Clint Woodruff, Anne-Marie Braga, Pedro Almeida, Kevin Neimond, Perry May, and Kathryn Morrison, who will be making the leadership decisions as co-interim directors for the Department of Human Services during this period, the governor's office said.

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Medlock previously served as chief medical officer and director of crisis and emergency services for the Washington, DC Department of Behavioral Health.

The Behavioral Health Administration was created by legislation 2021 with a start date of July 1, 2022.

The BHA is not a stand-alone cabinet-level agency. Instead, it's part of the Department of Human Services. While Polis made Medlock part of his cabinet last year, he could not make the BHA a cabinet-level agency because the state Constitution limits the number of cabinet-level agencies to 20. The governor chose the Department of Early Childhood as the state's 20th principal agency.

The BHA is the "single entity responsible for driving coordination and collaboration across state agencies to address behavioral health needs," according to its website.

The BHA is supposed to provide leadership, coordination and standardization across nearly 100 existing programs housed in a multitude of state agencies. However, those programs would remain in their original agencies and with oversight to those agencies, leading to concerns from legislative Joint Budget Committee staff in 2021 that the BHA was little more than another level of bureaucracy.

Editor's note: An earlier version of this story included reporting on millions of dollars spent by a related agency that so far failed to improve clinical staffing at the state's two mental hospitals. This story has been updated to delete the section.
A bill seeking to qualify low-income Coloradans for much more rental housing cleared the Senate on Monday.

Most landlords require tenants to earn at least three times the amount they charge for rent. In 2022, the average monthly cost of a one-bedroom apartment in Colorado stood at $1,364. That means tenants must make at least $49,104 to qualify. The individual median income for Coloradans is just under $37,000, according to the most recent Census data from 2020.

If made law, Senate Bill 184 would cap minimum income requirements for tenants to twice the cost of rent. It would also cap security deposits to the cost of two months' rent, among other changes.

Over the last decade, the cost of housing in Colorado has doubled, forcing folks to spend larger shares of their income on rent, said bill sponsor Sen. Faith Winter, D-Westminster. Its time to put in place sensible guardrails to expand housing access for Coloradans of all income levels.

The Senate approved the bill in a 22-12 vote on Monday. All Republicans voted against the bill and all but one Democrat voted in support of it.

Critics called the bill's restrictions "excessive" and "punitive" for landlords. They said the bill will contribute to dis-incentivize landlords from renting.

The state legislature is currently considering several bills that sponsors say will lower housing costs for renters by cracking down on the actions of landlords. Some of those bills seek to prohibit evictions without just cause and cap housing fees for owning pets.

"You're really going to end up hurting the very people you think you're going to help," said Rep. Janice Rich, R-Grand Junction. "What I'm hearing is a lot of people are just going to sell their rental properties and there's going to be less for (renters) to choose from."

Sen. Joann Ginal, D-Fort Collins, was the only Democrat to vote "no" on SB 184 Monday. She said the bill would open the door for renters to over-spend on housing, as well as make the agreement more risky for landlords.

Snyder bill seeks to incentivize wildfire-resilient homes | FOCUS ON THE SPRINGS

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"It sets the tenants up and the landlords up for failure," Ginal said. "If someone isn't financially secure enough to pay an upfront deposit, then they probably aren't in any position to rent anyway."

The general rule of thumb for budgeting rent is to spend a maximum of 30% of one's monthly income on housing, with those who spend more than 30% being classified as cost-burdened.

But with the cost of housing in Colorado rising faster than incomes, fewer and fewer residents are able to adhere to this standard. In 2022, a study found that half of Colorado renters spent more than 30% of their income on housing  a rate above the national average and the eighth-highest of all states.

In addition, proponents of the bill said it would close a loophole landlords use to discriminate against people who use housing vouchers. While landlords can't deny tenants for using housing vouchers, they can still require the tenant to earn a certain amount. Proponents said this is also particularly difficult for those who live on fixed incomes, such as older adults, veterans and people with disabilities.

The bill clarifies that tenants can raise discrimination as a defense in eviction proceedings, and it prohibits landlords from considering credit scores when evaluating potential tenants who use housing vouchers.

Burdensome income requirements shut out too many hardworking Coloradans from the market," said bill sponsor Sen. Tony Exum, D-Colorado Springs. "This bill will help ensure prospective renters arent being discriminated against because of their income while improving housing stability across Colorado.

In committee, sponsors changed the bill in response to points opponents raised, including raising the income cap to two times rent, instead of the original 1.25 times rent, and raising the deposit cap to two months' rent instead of the original one month's rent.

Winter also fully removed several provisions of the original bill that would have, in part, required landlords to accept the first eligible tenant who applies; allowed tenants to pay deposits in monthly installments; and, prohibited landlords from considering a tenant's financial status if they have paid their rent on time for the last three months or if they have a financially qualified co-signer.

The bill now goes to the House for consideration.

Colorado Springs opposes proposed state land-use plan
When I was younger, so much younger than today  and about 15 years before John Lennon used those exact words in an iconic Beatles song  there were huge espionage scandals in the U.K.

In 1951 Guy Burgess and Donald Maclean disappeared after working in top jobs at the British Secret Intelligence Service (MI6), the Foreign Office and embassies around the world; they had escaped to Moscow to spend the rest of their lives.

Years later it became known that they were part of a group of upper-crust students at Cambridge University recruited as Soviet spies before the Second World War. Another recruit was Kim Philby who resigned his position at the Foreign Office in 1951, was reinstated after an investigation, but also defected to Moscow in 1963.

History is full of shady characters, willing to betray their own country's top secrets, and the Cold War years spawned many thrilling books and movies by authors like Len Deighton, John Le Carre and others depicting famous fictional spies. Most famous was MI6 Agent 007 James Bond, created by Ian Fleming, a former Royal Navy Intelligence Officer who lived in Jamaica. Ocho Rios International Airport is named after him.

These thoughts flooded my mind when the latest espionage news broke last week, but this true-life cloak and dagger routine seemed far less romantic or intriguing, and a lot more risible and ridiculous.

A very youthful-looking 21 year-old low-ranking member of the Massachusetts National Guard named Jack Teixeira was charged with publishing highly classified material on an internet chat room called Discord for teenage members of a group named Thug Shakers Central. Not even Ian Fleming could make this stuff up, as the US government has massive amounts of egg on its face once again, with sensitive information relating to behind-the-scenes opinions and assessments of international allies.

The biggest question is how a weekend warrior, who may do active service a few times a month, could possibly have security clearances for information designated for the joint Chiefs Of Staff at the Pentagon. In 2009 U.S. Army hacker Private Bradley Manning gave Wikipedia multitudes of files that eventually changed the course of the Iraq War.

That story became more intriguing when the hacker was tried and jailed, to immediately begin transitioning to a woman. Eventually Chelsea Manning was pardoned by President Obama, but the Wikipedia Editor remains in a British jail awaiting extradition to the U.S.. A decade ago Edward Snowden leaked massive amounts of files from the National Security Agency before defecting to Russia. No doubt many surprises will be forthcoming in the latest cloak and dagger saga.

Bernie Smith
The Mason City Community School Board heard from a group opposing what it says are obscene books in district libraries at its meeting Monday.

Mason City resident Connie Dianda said she collected more than 200 local signatures to petition the school board to halt the purchase of books until they can be evaluated. She circulated lists she said include books currently available for students to check out in the district, and provided ratings based on criteria including aberrant or deviant sexual behavior, inexplicit sexuality and gender ideology.

Upon being questioned by board member Lorrie Lala, Dianda conceded she had not read most of the books on the list.

Other residents spoke out against banning books, the back and forth dominating the public comment section of the meeting.

This is not about banning books, this is about ginning up discrimination against marginalized groups, said Richard Pierson of Mason City. Pierson said the Bible should be added to the list of books proposed to be banned, calling it a rough piece of literature.

Dianda cited booklooks.org, a nonprofit group from Florida that ranks books based on appropriateness for children and young adults as her source for the books that should be evaluated. Also present were people circulating literature from Mothers of Liberty, a conservative group pressuring school boards and state legislatures across the country to implement more control over what students can access in public school libraries.

S.F 496, a bill passed by the Iowa Senate and currently being debated in the House, is anticipated to soon reach the governors desk and contains language pushed by parents rights groups. The bill would establish a parents or guardians right to make decisions affecting the parents or guardians child, and modify curriculum and school district libraries to prohibit instruction related to gender identity and sexual orientation in school districts kindergarten through grade six.

Although no action was taken, the administration said the districts current policy gives parents and guardians the ability to opt students out of any material to which they object.

None of those books (on Diandas list) are required reading, said Assistant Superintendent Bridgette Exman, who explained the district policy gives parents and guardians the choice to opt out of any required reading, as well as policies in place that allow the community to challenge curriculum or books.

These are family decisions, said Exman. If there is a family that does not want their child to read certain books or wants to make those restrictions, thats not the schools job, those are family decisions.

Other business

In other business, the board voted to restructure Mason City Virtual Academy to fit under its alternative education program and eliminate virtual learning for grades K-6, making in-person learning the only option for elementary students.

Engagement of some students has been difficult; virtual academy has not been a good fit for a few students at this age level, Superintendent Pat Hamilton said. He cited data that shows with only 11 students enrolled, one teacher retirement and the programs cost exceeding revenue, returning to in-person learning was best for all students K-6.

Moving the virtual academy to alternative learning will help students with individualized instruction plans and credit recovery, things the administration says the alternative coordinators are already equipped to handle.

The board also approved a tentative agreement with Mason City Area Education Association that would secure an increase in base pay for teachers, nurses, media specialists, guidance counselors, and social workers, and additional stipends for extracurricular activities.

Approval to terminate the contracts of the districts two remaining nursing staff, described as probationary, was agreed upon as well. The board last week terminated the contracts of all full-time nurses, agreeing to a plan that would see the nurses time cut in each of the buildings from a total of 320 hours per week to 259.

Photos that will instantly boost your mood Brooke Onder class at Roosevelt Elementary (11).jpg Buffington miniatures, piano Mason City Senior Activity Center weekly dance (35).jpg Mason City Senior Activity Center weekly dance (41).jpg North Iowa Band Festival 2021 - baby North Iowa Band Festival 2021 - Honor Guard Lemonade stand - Mason City Miss June - Flowers Jefferson Elementary - art 1 Lake Mills vs Osage baseball 06.21.21-23.jpg
DES MOINES  Iowa teenagers under 18 would be able to work more jobs and for longer hours under legislation advanced early Tuesday by Republican lawmakers.

Republicans passed the bill shortly before 5 a.m. after roughly seven hours of debate that spanned late Monday into early Tuesday, and included multiple starts and stops as legislators became embroiled in a procedural dispute.

The proposal to relax some state work regulations for Iowa minors has been working through the Iowa Legislature since early in the 2023 session, and has been among the most contentious proposals debated by state lawmakers.

Supporters say the legislation would create more opportunities for young Iowans to gain work experience and make money at a younger age, while critics express concern that the relaxed regulations will put children in harms way on the job.

While the responsibility of having a job might be more valuable than a paycheck, the reward of the paycheck will allow these youths who want to have a job to possibly save for a car, maybe buy a prom dress, go to a summer camp, take a date out for the weekend, and even for some the ability to save some money so they will not be subject to the monstrous amount of debt that some will face in a few years by going to college, said Sen. Adrian Dickey, a Republican from Packwood who managed the bill in the Senate.

Sen. Bill Dotzler, a Democrat from Waterloo, said, however, he believes there are several provisions in the Senate proposal that conflict with federal work regulations.

The federal labor department issued a statement critical of the bill passed by the Iowa Senate, and said there has been in Iowa a 69 percent increase in the number of children who are working illegally here.

It is irresponsible for states to consider loosening child labor protections, U.S. Labor Solicitor Seema Nanda said in a statement. Federal and state entities should be working together to increase accountability and ramp up enforcement  not make it easier to illegally hire children to do what are often dangerous jobs.

Democrats argued that Republicans are trying to address a state shortage of workers by opening up the workforce to more teenagers.

The bill is here because we have a tremendous shortage of workers in the state of Iowa, and this legislative body has failed to address the workforce issues. We cant find enough workers, so we gotta have child labor involved, Dotzler said. This bill is full of opportunities for young people to make mistakes.  I think this bill, down the road, is definitely going to cause young people to be injured.

Among the provisions in the Senate bill:

 Iowans 14 to 17 years old could participate in work-based learning programs or work-related programs if granted an exception from the director of the state workforce or education departments. These so-called work programs could be in manufacturing and food processing, although not in areas where animals are slaughtered.

 Iowans under 16 years old would be able to work later hours, until 9 p.m. during the school year and 11 p.m. in the summer, and 16- and 17-year-olds would be able to work the same hours as adults.

Senate Republicans altered a provision that would have allowed 14-year-olds to drive to jobs, instead creating a legislative committee to study the states laws that permit some driving under the age of 16.

Republicans also narrowed a provision that would have allowed, with parental permission, Iowans 16 and 17 years old to serve alcoholic drinks in bars. Their updated version proposes to allow 16- and 17-year-olds to serve drinks in establishments like restaurants.

We are not forcing them into slave labor. We are not selling our children, Dickey said during debate, referencing comments that he said he has heard at protests and on social media. Were not even requiring them to work. What were doing is providing them opportunities to have a job during the same time of day thats already allowed to their classmates and participate in extra curricular activities within their school.

Dotzler, however, expressed concern that language in the bill is not clear and could still allow bars that sell food to employ 16- and 17-year-olds to serve drinks.

Dotzler attempted during debate to ask Republicans about that language, but in an exceptionally rare move they declined to engage, leading to the procedural dispute and protracted debate session.

Lance Coles, with the union Iowa Federation of Labor AFL-CIO, called the bills passage a disgrace.

This bill is out of compliance with Federal Law, will do nothing to attract new Iowans, and puts children at risk of death in dangerous occupations, Cole said.

With its passage out of the Senate, Senate File 542 is now eligible for consideration by the House.

The House has its own bill, which is similar but not identical to the Senate bill. House File 647 was passed out of the Houses commerce committee in early March, and has been legislatively idle since.

The House proposal, similarly, would allow teens as young as 14 to request a waiver from the directors of the state workforce and education agencies to work as apprentices in factories, mines, construction sites and warehouses, among others, as part of work-based learning programs.
harshalc4 wrote:

Since 1990 the percentage of bacterial sinus infections in AQADESTAN that are resistant to the antibiotic perxicillin has increased substantially. Bacteria can quickly develop resistance to an antibiotic when it is prescribed indiscriminately or when patients fail to take it as prescribed. Since perxicillin has not been indiscriminately prescribed, health officials hypothesize that the increase in perxicillin resistant sinus infections is largely due to patients failure to take his medication as prescribed.



Which of the following, it true of Aqadestan, provides most support for the health officials' hypothesis:



A) Resistance to several other commonly prescribed antibiotics has not increased since 1990 in Aqadestan



B) A large number of Aqadestanis never seek medical help when they have a sinus infection.



C) When it first became available, perxicillin was much more effective in treating bacterial sinus infections than any other antibiotic used for such infections at the time.



D) Many patients who take perxicillin experience severe side effects within the rst few days of their prescribed regimen



E) Aqadestani health clinics provide antibiotics to their patients at cost





- Percentage of infections that are resistant to perxicillin has increased substantially.- This can happen when it is prescribed indiscriminately or when patients fail to take it as prescribed.- perxicillin has not been indiscriminately prescribed,Conclusion: Patients do not to take this medication as prescribed.We need to strengthen the conclusion. Something that says that patients who are prescribed this medicine do not take it properly. That this is the reason for increased resistance. Note that there could be a 100 other reasons so eliminating one other would barely strengthen this but that is a call we will take as per our options.A) Resistance to several other commonly prescribed antibiotics has not increased since 1990 in AqadestanOne way to look at it is that there doesn't exist one other common reason because of which resistance is developing against all antibiotics but that barely strengthens our argument. Another way to look at it is that people are taking other antibiotics as prescribed since resistance to them is not increasing. Then it is unlikely that they are not taking perxicillin as prescribed. This actually weakens our argument.B) A large number of Aqadestanis never seek medical help when they have a sinus infection.People who are not prescribed perxicillin are irrelevant.C) When it first became available, perxicillin was much more effective in treating bacterial sinus infections than any other antibiotic used for such infections at the time.Tells us that perxcillin was the best at one time. Doesn't impact our argument.D) Many patients who take perxicillin experience severe side effects within the rst few days of their prescribed regimenThis provides a good reason why people may not be taking perxicillin as prescribed. Then it certainly strengthens the conclusion that patients not taking the medicine as prescribed is the reason for increased resistance.E) Aqadestani health clinics provide antibiotics to their patients at costIrrelevant.Answer (D)_________________
Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools officials have asked Forsyth Technical Community College to better communicate with them when it has events on campus that may not be suitable for high school students attending school there.

The move comes weeks after a drag performer was seen on video straddling a high school student during a Pride event on campus. WS/FCS's Early College and Middle College are based at Forsyth Tech, giving students access to its facilities.

In a statement released earlier this week, the school district apologized that students in its schools were exposed to an "inappropriate dance."

"That performer's dance was not something students of that age should have been able to access or witness," the statement said.

High school freshmen are typically 14- or 15-years-old.

Libs of TikTok, a social media channel that routinely reposts videos that are critical of drag performers, issues involving gender-identity and teachers promoting diversity, posted a video clip of the performance, catching the attention of several right-wing media outlets including the national desk of Fox News, the National Review and the New York Post.

In the video, a drag performer straddles a student who is sitting in a chair. The student, whose face is blocked out, stood up and hugged the performer after the dance.

The performance at a campus restaurant was part of a Pride event on March 22 that the school's Pride Club organized.

According to the school district's statement, Middle College and Early College administrators knew of the event and a drag performance but were not aware that there would be an entertainer performing "in a manner that was not appropriate for underage students."

Had it known, the school district said it would have limited access to the event.

"Prior knowledge would have also given Early and Middle College administrators a chance to alert parents that an adult performance was going to take place in a space often frequented by Early and Middle College students during lunch," the statement said.

As a result, the school district has asked Forsyth Tech to improve communication with Early College and Middle College administrators.

On Wednesday, Forsyth Tech issued a response explaining its version of events:

Forsyth Techs student-led PRIDE Club held an on-campus event. They advertised the event, which featured a drag performance, through flyers posted on campus and social channels. Forsyth Tech staff were not aware the performance portion of the event included audience participation, nor would we have allowed it to take place.

"Our shared campus and educational experience provides Winston-Salem/Forsyth County high school students access to all Forsyth Tech facilities and events, unless high school administrators decide access should be limited. They were aware of this event and knew it featured a drag performance, and, to our knowledge, they didnt limit access.

"We are reviewing current policies regarding student organizations use of campus facilities. We are also reminding our student organizations that visitors and invited guests must abide by all college policies.

The performer at the event declined to comment.
GREENSBORO  Without comment, the Greensboro City Council approved at least $240,000 in incentives for a British aerospace manufacturer to build a maintenance facility here.

Marshall USA, a subsidiary of Marshall Aerospace, has proposed building the $50 million facility at Piedmont Triad International Airport. The company has said it would create up to 240 jobs, according to city documents.

The average wage for the new full-time positions would be approximately $73,250 with additional benefits and no new jobs will pay below $15 per hour, the documents say.

The company expects to create the new jobs by Dec. 31, 2027. The incentive grant would expire if the new jobs are not created and the investment is not made by that date.

Marshall USA also is eligible for an additional $250 incentive per job for any new employee whose permanent address is located in an Impact Zone or who is hired through NCWorks Career Centers.

The company would be paid in five annual installments after the new jobs are created and the investment is confirmed.

Marshall Yandle, the citys economic development manager, said that Marshall USA also would be required to host a job fair for each of its hiring phases.

The city included a claw-back provision that requires the new jobs be maintained for a certain period of time (not yet specified) and at least $50 million in capital investment expended.

The new facility would allow the company to better meet the C-130 aircraft maintenance requirements of the U.S. military, documents say.

The Guilford County Board of Commissioners plans to hold a similar public hearing at its 5:30 p.m. meeting on Thursday. The county would offer up to $308,879 in incentives, plus a $124,000 local matching fund utility grant. The board meets at the Old County Courthouse, 301 W. Market St.

A state Commerce Department incentive package also is likely from the Job Development Grant program.
HIGH POINT  A 44-year-old man with a history of mental health issues was jailed Tuesday on a $255,000 bond after a standoff with Guilford County Sheriffs deputies that began late Monday night.

Sheriff Danny Rogers said he spoke with Charles Curtis Nichols after the High Point man was taken into custody to assure him he would get the help he needs. No one else was in the home during the standoff.

Rogers said deputies have had previous encounters with Nichols, but did not elaborate. He explained that Nichols was dealing with life challenges.

Being incarcerated within the Guilford County Detention Centers, or the Guilford County Detention Center residence halls as I like to call them, is not the place for people who are dealing with mental health issues, Rogers told reporters Tuesday after the nearly 12-hour standoff ended. I will continue to stand and fight for them. As I stand and fight for them, I fight for all of us.

Nichols is charged with assault with a firearm on a law enforcement officer and communicating threats among other complaints.

At 9:40 p.m. Monday, deputies attempted to stop Nichols while on his motorcycle, but he continued heading toward his home nearby in the 1200 block of Blackberry Ridge Drive, according to Bria Evans, a spokeswoman for the sheriffs office. Nichols had outstanding warrants on charges of misdemeanor stalking and assault with a deadly weapon, she said.

When Nichols arrived at his home, he fired shots at deputies, Evans said. No one was injured.

Rogers said he was thankful there were no casualties, and that his team does whatever it can to preserve life in such scenarios.

It takes a lot of patience, Rogers said.

Nichols is scheduled to appear in court Wednesday morning.
Photo: pixabay

Recent comments made by the Minister of Jobs, Economic Development, and Innovation fell flat last week as Minister Bailey commented that despite a rising unemployment rate in Northern BC, they would be fine.

Nothing is fine about the latest jobs numbers for the Cariboo region and Prince George.

After being touted as being some of Canadas best, this region has now become BCs worst in terms of unemployment.

In March of 2023, the unemployment rate for Prince George is sitting at 6.2%, over a point higher than the national average and two points higher than the overall BC unemployment numbers.

The Cariboo is even worse at 7.1% This should be no surprise.

Sawmill closures, forestry shutdowns, and pulp mill closures have plagued the area, affecting other suppliers, contractors and small businesses. Jobs have disappeared.

The Shadow Minister for Jobs, Todd Stone, has spoken out about the pressing need to address the economic peril of northern communities and the alarmingly high unemployment rates in those regions.

But perhaps this is simply a canary in the coal mine signaling the disconnect between government and what is happening in the economy of the north.

B.C. needs economic growth and job creation, not just in the public sector, but also in the private enterprises and industries. Without it, our economy will falter.

It has long been posited by economists that entrepreneurs and small businesses are necessary for any economy to have resilience, recovery after downturns or innovation.

To have these businesses, B.C. must be attractive to investment and have a competitive environment. BC is no longer doing either of those things.

Whats worse is the government doesnt have a plan to stimulate the business community moving forward or for economic prosperity for this area.

It is governments responsibility to collaborate and find solutions that will not only address the current unemployment crisis but also foster long-term growth and prosperity for all regions of our province.

Furthermore, government must invest in infrastructure projects, educational opportunities, and skills training to help diversify the northern economy and create much-needed employment opportunities.

Unfortunately, rather than focusing on creating a competitive advantage for business in B.C., or investing in infrastructure to foster industry, the NDP government has been systematically adding to the bureaucracy that businesses must work within.

Adding additional costs and taxes and burdening them while they suffer already difficult economic situations and escalating costs.

The other focus has been on creating a larger government.

The NDP government has increased government jobs by 120,000 positions or over 30% over the last six years, adding over 11 billion dollars of costs per year.

There is no plan to reverse or repair the decline of the forestry sector. There is no plan to stimulate the resource sector. There is no plan to help entrepreneurs or small businesses.

There are no plans.

There are lots of documents full of motherhood statements, pledges and other lofty goals, that dont have any strategic path or outcomes-based measurement.

Results matter.

The results that were seen last week were skyrocketing unemployment numbers in hard-hit areas of the resource sector.

To disregard those results with a token, the north will be fine is simply disrespectful and shows a lack of understanding of the issues.

B.C. needs an economic plan moving forward and a large, bloated government is not an economic plan.

My question to you this week is this:

What industries would you like government to focus on supporting?

I love to hear from you, and I read every email.

Please email me at [email protected] or call the office at 250-712-3620.

Renee Merrifield is the BC United MLA for Kelowna-Mission.

This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.
A capital campaign is expected to begin soon to raise nearly $1 million to purchase a new bookmobile and for other additions to to the Lewis and Clark Librarys mobile fleet, the library director said.

John Finn told members of Hometown Helena, a grassroots civics group, on Thursday that the current bookmobile was purchased in 2012 and has aged as it has been covering all 3,458-square-miles of Lewis and Clark County, including stops at Canyon Ferry, the York Bar and Wolf Creek Bar.

The current bookmobile is capable of carrying about 3,000 books, audios, DVDs, games and activities.

He said the bookmobile, which he estimated had about 100,000 miles, was purchased for $250,000 and a new bookmobile with comparable equipment would cost about $600,000. And, if it were ordered today, it would take 2 1/2 years until it could be delivered. And he predicted the cost would be even higher.

Who knows what it will cost in 2 1/2 years? he said.

Finn said Monday the capital campaign would be overseen by the Lewis and Clark Library Foundation, but added the board was still preparing for how to proceed.

Lewis and Clark Library has branch buildings in Augusta, East Helena and Lincoln, and the bookmobile holds that rank as well.

We count it as a branch of the library, he said, adding that with 1,000 cardholders, the bookmobile has more folks with cards than some of the librarys smaller branches.

Finn said the $1 million fundraiser would add to the librarys fleet and allow for the purchase of a delivery van which could take books to places such as assisted-living facilities, where people have trouble accessing the bookmobile.

Finn said this new van could bring books to people who cannot come to a bookmobile in a traditional way.

The library also has a three-wheeled "Words on Wheels" book bike that pulls a cart holding nearly 200 books that has gone to local parks, farmers markets and other public events.

The book bike cart also has wifi.

Finn also told members of Hometown Helena that the library, which underwent nearly $6 million in renovations a couple years ago, has developed a $4.4 million budget for fiscal year 2024. He said the library system has a staff of 50, which accounts for 60% of the budget.

The Lewis and Clark Library, 120 S. Last Chance Gulch, has 115,333 physical collections, 262,060 electronic books (e-books), 17 licensed databases, 142 print serial subscriptions, 468,184 audios (download units), 468 other collections for a total of 606,204.

Finn said the library checked out 459,000 items last year. It answered 16,000 reference questions and during that time, public wifi and computers were used 204,000 times last year. The Facebook page, mobile app and webpage saw a combined 366,000 hits.

The library had 720 programs last year for 25,511 patrons, meeting rooms at the library and its various branches were used 1,500 times and 200,000 patrons came through the doors, Finn said.
Multiple city of Helena departments are set to coordinate the planting of about 70 boulevard trees along Rodney Street in May, replacing the more than 100-year-old trees decimated during an infrastructure upgrade project last summer.

Helena's Urban Forestry Supervisor Chris Daly said in an interview Monday he ordered 80 trees "just to have some extras" at a cost of about $16,000. In total, the planting of 70 replacement trees will cost the city about $24,000, including 20-gallon, slow-release watering bags for each tree, Daly said.

During a budget work session on April 12, city staff said with the trees already ordered and the constraints presented by Rodney Street infrastructure, planting more mature trees to replace those lost during construction is not possible.

Helena City Commission Sean Logan recently pitched an idea to his fellow commissioners to use remaining American Rescue Plan Act dollars to upsize the trees.

"We ordered our trees last year," City Manager Tim Burton told the commission April 12. "And these are the best trees that you can buy, and they fit with the four species we have planted already, and so our recommendation is that we stick with the trees that we've already purchased."

Daly confirmed the replacement trees ordered are the highest graded trees available.

Those 70 trees will go in the boulevard along Rodney Street from Ninth Avenue to Helena Avenue.

Boulevard trees removed during phase one of the Rodney Street project, from Broadway Street to Ninth Avenue, were replaced by a subcontracted landscape company that also paid for the replacement trees.

Helena Parks, Recreation and Open Lands Director Doug Smith said April 12 that the trees the city has purchased for phase two "are of much higher grade than the trees that were installed or planted by the subcontractor, and there was a wide range from what was planted to what the city has purchased."

Phase two's replacement trees are of the bur oak and Lewis and Clark elm varieties. Daly said he will be overseeing the planting of the trees.

"I think that between coordination of the departments, it's going to really be a concerted effort to get the trees in, to get them in right, so the neighborhood can see a good, efficient planting and the results quicker," Burton said. "Upsizing a little bit does make some sense except for the fact that we don't think that we can get the trees in anyway that would match up with the trees that we've already purchased, which are not as big, but they're the best trees that you can buy."

Earlier in the month, during an April 5 administrative meeting, city officials heard a presentation on proposed amendments to the city's arboricultural standards, an update to tree protection standards in city code, a direct result of the Rodney Street clearcutting.

The changes establish a "tree protection zone," calculated by taking the tree diameter in inches, multiplying that number by 2 and changing the unit from inches to feet. The proposed code change gives an example of a 20-inch tree that would have a protection zone of 40 feet.

The code change states within the first quarter of the protection zone, there shall be no impact or root cutting. Within the first half of the protection zone, there shall be no cutting of roots 3 inches in diameter or greater. Outside of the first half of the protection zone, at least 50% of the root area shall be undisturbed.

It also proposes should a project manager or contractor damage trees, they will be "held responsible for mitigation and value of trees."

Helena Transportation Systems Director David Knoepke said during the April 5 presentation staff culled language for the code revision from the city of Missoula's code and Tree Care Industry Association standards.

City Commissioner Emily Dean asked Knoepke if the Rodney Street trees could have been saved if this language was in city code. He said no.

"Because of the location of infrastructure that was being replaced, not just the pipes, but the curb and gutter, sidewalks and also the street invaded into that critical root zone to the point of them being determined they were compromised," he said.

City Commissioner Melinda Reed asked what can be done to potentially save trees in the likely event a new infrastructure replacement project runs into similar issues.

Knoepke said there are occasionally alternative options available, but in situations like Rodney Street where trees were planted on top of city utilities, there is not much that can be done.

"That's just an unfortunate case we have in some areas," he said.

Rob Freistadt is the treasurer of Growing Friends of Helena, an all-volunteer nonprofit founded in 1990 largely focused on educating and assisting residents and local government officials on arboreal concerns.

In a phone interview Monday, Freistadt said the proposed code change if approved by the city commission is a step in the right direction, but that it needs more teeth.

"We're wanting more teeth, more consideration of how the destruction of our mature trees can be more gradually handled," he said.

He said the nonprofit believes what happened on Rodney Street could have been avoided.

"Our concern is going forward from here," he said. "What's the next neighborhood to suffer this same fate?"

He said the nonprofit plans to work with some of the residents on Rodney Street to plant mature trees within property lines, outside of the city rights-of-way.

"Hopefully we can help with the shock many people have felt," he said.
Lawmakers tabled a bill Tuesday that would have restricted nonresidents to 14 days of hunting in the state per year.

Senate Bill 533 from Sen. Mark Noland, R-Big Fork, would have also rescinded a law allowing out-of-state college students to obtain hunting licenses at resident rates. The bill passed the Senate unanimously earlier this month.

On Tuesday the House Fish, Wildlife and Parks Committee was set to offer amendments on SB 533 when Rep. Tom France, D-Missoula, asked the committee to table the bill. Given the complexity of the issue, France encouraged a bill to study nonresident hunting during the interim. The committee agreed, voting unanimously.

Amendments drafted on SB 533 included removing the portion pertaining to college students and removing the 14-day restriction for nonresident landowners with 160 acres. Neither were considered before the bill was tabled.

The bill saw a mix of support and opposition, with supporters citing crowding on available public lands and a surge in nonresident hunters in recent years. Opponents included outfitters who believe holders of special permits should not be limited, and groups including the Montana Chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers that questioned whether the time limit could concentrate nonresidents even more around things like the elk or deer ruts.

SB 533 was one of multiple bills grappling with nonresident hunting in Montana, with few making it across the finish line to the governors desk. The Legislature is at day 76 of its 90-day session.
Child protective services warrants

Senators on Monday gave initial approval to a bill that would require Child and Family Services workers or law enforcement to obtain a warrant before removing a child in most circumstances.

Sen. Dennis Lenz, R-Billings, carried HB 37 on the floor and said in most cases a warrant can be obtained in a matter of hours.

The bill saw a mix of support and opposition, with supporters saying it would enhance due process and avoid unnecessary removals.

Confiscating a child without due process, its just wrong and it cant be allowed to continue, said Sen. Daniel Emrich, R-Great Falls.

Senate Majority Leader Steve Fitzpatrick spoke against the bill, saying it did not protect against abuse and neglect.

Parents have rights but so do kids, he said.

HB 37 passed on an initial vote of 37-13. It faces a final vote before it would advance to Gov. Greg Gianforte for consideration.

Obscenity legislation

A bill that saw significant attention earlier in the session that would have opened public schools, libraries, museums and their employees to criminal liability for displaying or disseminating to minors material deemed obscene has advanced with significant amendments.

House Bill 234 from Rep. Bob Phalen, R-Lindsay, has been heavily debated through both the House and Senate. Supporters billed the legislation as needed to protect children while opponents maintain it targets teachers and librarians and pushes censorship.

The bill has seen multiple amendments including removing libraries and museums. In the Senate, the bill was amended to maintain decisions as local, such as through a county or school board.

The bill passed an initial vote in the Senate along party lines 34-16. If it clears another vote in the Senate, it would go back to the House for consideration of the amendments.

Hunter education bill

A bill instituting mandatory in-person hunter education for minors is nearing passage in the Senate.

House Bill 243 from Rep. Marilyn Marler, D-Missoula, passed the House unanimously. As originally written, the bill would require an in-person field day as part of hunter education.

While in the Senate, Sen. Daniel Emrich, R-Great Falls, carried an amendment to the bill to make all hunter education classes for youth in-person. Online classes will continue to be allowed for adults.

SB 243 passed on an initial vote of 38-12. If it clears the Senate, the bill would move back to the House for consideration of amendments.

Bonding for lawsuits affecting hunting

A bill that would require a bond be posted for litigants seeking an injunction affecting hunting seasons received support on an initial vote in the Senate.

House Bill 419 from Rep. Jedediah Hinkle, R-Belgrade, has advanced steadily through the Legislature along party lines.

Supporters of the bill say the process of litigation has been used to stop or change hunting or trapping seasons, and argue that it should come with a bond to provide restitution.

Time and time again we see lawsuits that are won by the defendant and the process is the punishment, said Sen. John Fuller, R-Whitefish, who carried the bill on the floor.

Opponents argue the bill creates a pay-to-play system in which only groups or individuals with $50,000 to post a bond will be able to seek an injunction.

This bill is sticking it to our local hunters and anglers in the name of preventing frivolous lawsuits, said Sen. Willis Curdy, D-Missoula.

HB 419 passed on an initial vote of 32-18. After a final vote, the bill will move to the governor for consideration.

Employee housing

A bill that would have exempted employer-provided housing from provisions of the state Landlord-Tenant Act was summarily voted down by the Senate.

House Bill 733 from Rep. Steven Galloway, R-Great Falls, would have expanded exemptions from housing on the premise to include all housing provided as a condition of employment.

HB 733 received a cold response from both sides of the aisle on the Senate floor.

Its garbage, said Sen. Ellie Boldman, D-Missoula, who said it would benefit large luxury employers while putting the thumb on the little guy.

Sen. Ken Bogner, R-Miles City, spoke about his experience in employee housing with in the U.S. Marine Corps.

This bill here gives massive control over employees, he said, adding that it would incentivize companies to buy employee housing and reduce already strained availability.

Sen. Chris Friedel, R-Billings, said housing should be seen as a benefit provided by employers.

HB 733 was voted down 13-37.

Illegally blocking roads

A bill to increase the fine for illegally blocking a county road received initial approval from senators Monday.

House Bill 486 from Rep. Paul Green, R-Hardin, had proposed a fine of $500 per day for blocking a county road. The bill passed the House but stalled in a Senate committee and was tabled. Sen. Jason Small, R-Busby, then successfully blasted the bill onto the Senate floor.

This will discourage bad actors and protect the rights of all Montanans, he said.

Sen. Chris Friedel, R-Billings, brought an amendment to the bill to both better define a county road as one where the commission took affirmative actions to adopt the road. The amendment also decreased the fine to $100, citing some senators who felt the fine was too high.

It meets in the middle, Friedel said, before the amendment successfully passed.

The bill saw opposition from several Republicans concerned about private property rights.

Sen. Steve Hinebauch, R-Wibaux, said I think were trying to attack private property with this situation, he said, citing an abandoned county road on his property that still see people claim it is public.

But supporters of the bill said opponents were conflating clearly defined county roads with less clear road dispute or prescriptive easements.

Private property is private property, but you cant block access to a county road, said Sen. Jen Gross, D-Billings.

There are no private property rights on a public road, they dont exist, said Sen. Brad Molnar, R-Laurel.

HB 486 passed on an initial vote of 28-22. If it clears the Senate it would move back to the House for consideration.
Over the years there have been many cinematic and literary depictions of a Mexican standoff, but the current trade dispute with Mexico over corn may be one of the first one with a geo-political impact.

And that impact could be felt by every farmer in Illinois who grows corn. There is a true Mexican standoff between the United States and Mexico that may not have an amicable settlement.

Top trade officials from the office of U.S. Trade Ambassador Katherine Tai are meeting with their counterparts from Mexico. The meeting is billed as the U.S.-Mexico high-level economic dialogue mid-year review. Participants are titled as deputies and undersecretaries, but do not include Trade Ambassador Tai, who is in Japan, and chief agricultural trade ambassador Doug McKalip, who is in Australia.

The meeting announcement does not indicate Mexicos complaint about U.S. genetically modified corn is on the agenda. But it would be an incubator for groundwork on resolving the trade conflict. Ambassador Tai has already met with her Mexican counterpart, without success. And while McKalip has direct interest in the dispute, it is more of a trade conflict than about agriculture.

In short, 28 months ago the president of Mexico issued a decree that his nation would no longer purchase U.S. corn because it had been genetically modified. Ninety percent of U.S. corn has a biotech origin, designed to facilitate its production, but which has never been proven to cause health issues for humans or livestock.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture says the decree flies in the face of the United States-Mexico-Canada trade agreement because Mexico has been unable to prove there was a scientific reason for the Mexican policy, which is required by the USMCA. And as the relationship between the United States and Mexico seems to be increasingly contentious, a quick and easy settlement may be a pipedream.

That is a problem for every U.S. corn grower, and particularly those in Illinois. Mexico has purchased an average of 650 million bushels of corn annually from the United States over the past five years. It is the biggest export market for corn growers, and represents over 25% of annual exports. The loss of such a market would undercut the price of corn substantially, and Ohio State University ag economists say it would impact futures contract trading rules and agricultural risk management programs.

While some Corn Belt farmers would see minimal impact because their corn is shipped to Asian markets via ports in the Pacific Northwest, and others feed their corn to Great Plains livestock, that is not the case in Illinois. The OSU ag economists quantified where Illinois corn ends up with a troubling result. While 30% of it stays in the United States for ethanol processing, and domestic livestock consumption, 70% of it ends up crossing the border to Mexico, either by rail or ships that depart from Gulf ports.

There may not be an amicable settlement that will allow corn growers to keep their biggest export market. And if Mexico is forced to comply with the USMCA, trade and political issues may be unimaginable. No one will win, and it will be a true Mexican Standoff.

States where you are most likely to hit an animal States where you are most likely to hit an animal #51. Washington D.C. #50. Nevada #49. Hawaii #48. Arizona #47. Florida #46. Alaska #45. California #44. Washington #43. Connecticut #42. New Mexico #41. Colorado #40. Utah #39. New Jersey #38. Louisiana #37. Oregon #36. Texas #35. New York #34. Illinois #33. New Hampshire #32. Delaware #31. Rhode Island #30. Oklahoma #29. Idaho #28. Massachusetts #27. Nebraska #26. Tennessee #25. Maryland #24. Indiana #23. Alabama #22. Ohio #21. Vermont #20. Georgia #19. Kentucky #18. Kansas #17. North Carolina #16. Missouri #15. Maine #14. Arkansas #13. Virginia #12. South Carolina #11. Minnesota #10. Wyoming #9. North Dakota #8. Mississippi #7. Iowa #6. Pennsylvania #5. Wisconsin #4. Michigan #3. South Dakota #2. Montana #1. West Virginia
DECATUR  A Decatur man out on bond on a charge of illegal possession of a machine gun was found in possession of another firearm Sunday.

Decatur police officers pulled over a vehicle on East Lost Bridge Road for a traffic violation on Sunday evening when a detection dog sniffed out the scent of drugs in the car, according to a police affidavit.

Police then searched the vehicle and found a Glock 22 firearm with a fully loaded magazine and one live round in the chamber located under the driver seat. Officers found no record of the firearm.

Officers also discovered a vacuum sealed package containing approximately 617.8 grams of suspected cannabis and a plastic bag containing 328 grams of suspected cannabis in a bag behind the driver seat. The total of approximately 945.8 grams is consistent with street distribution, police said.

The plastic bag was field tested and tested positive for the presence of cannabis.

In an interview with police, the suspect claimed ownership of the vacuum sealed bag containing suspected cannabis.

Officers ultimately discovered the suspect had been released on bond for a previous charge of illegal possession of a machine gun or automatic weapon from.

Police also found the suspect to have neither a firearm owners identification card or a concealed carry license.

The man was booked into the Macon County jail on a preliminary charge of armed violence. All preliminary charges are subject to review by the office of the states attorney.
DECATUR  The Community Foundation of Macon County has created Hope From the Heartland, a fund to support Ukrainian refugees, with a kickoff event planned for the Decatur Club on Saturday, April 22.

Doors open at 6 p.m. with a presentation at 7:30 p.m. Duane Noland will be the master of ceremonies. Donations will be accepted at the event and can also be made online at firstdecatur.org or at maconcountygives.org. The goal is to raise $500,000.

The Rev. Wayne Kent, retired senior pastor at First Christian Church, has visited refugee centers in Poland twice, with plans to visit again in May, at the churchs expense, he said. None of the money raised will fund his trip; it all goes directly to refugees in the form of food, housing, help with passports and other official papers, medical care and other basic needs. Kents trips to Poland are to check in with the organizations there that distribute the assistance and collect records that prove the money is being spent appropriately.

We created Hope From the Heartland this year pretty close to the one-year anniversary of the invasion, I would say in February, said Natalie Beck, executive director of the Community Foundation. I met with Wayne and (his wife) Leslie and some others that have been going there to help and we realized there was a need for a safe way for people to give. When we work with donors who want to send funds overseas, we want to provide a way that assures them their donations are reaching the intended recipients, so were working with different organizations and resources so that any donor knows their gift is secure.

There are more connections between Macon County and Ukraine than people realize, she said, both with actual relationships between people here and there, and in other ways, such as farming and Millikin University, which has a sister institution in Ukraine. People want to help but they also want to know the help is going where its most needed.

Millions of refugees entered Poland after the war began, Kent said, and while many of them have dispersed throughout Europe, there are about 1.6 million still in Poland. If fathers, brothers, husbands and sons are still alive and still fighting, the women and children want to stay as close as possible so they can reunite someday. If their men have died, the women and children often move on to a place where they can start over and build a new life.

You have real people and real lives who are severely impacted by the war, Kent said. Its not just property. Its peoples lives that have been destroyed. Some went home last summer, but the ones in Poland now tend to be from the eastern part of Ukraine thats been destroyed. If theyre from the western part of Ukraine theyve ventured home. The Poles dont know how to assess what the future holds.

In liberated Ukraine city, civilians still pay price of war
DECATUR  Short-term home rentals from companies like Airbnb and Vrbo have long been popular alternatives to hotel stays. But, at least for tax purposes, they will now be one in the same in Decatur.

The Decatur City Council on Monday approved without opposition an ordinance imposing the citys 8% hotel/motel tax on short-term rentals in city limits. The ordinance also requires the owners of short-term rental properties to obtain a license from the city that must be renewed annually at a rate of $25.

The change, according to city staff, comes amid an increase in complaints about short-term rentals related to noise, parking and garbage accumulation, among other things.

While the vast majority of short-term rentals are not problematic or disruptive to neighbors, there have been complaints from a small number of properties, City Manager Scot Wrighton wrote in a memo to the council.

It is also a matter of tax equity to level the playing field between short-term rental services and hotels, Wrighton said.

The short-term rental license is not intended to be a revenue-generator for the city, but to ensure that owners pay their taxes and that short-term rentals do not create a nuisance.

There are a lot of other cities that are that have much higher, much more rigorous regulation of Airbnbs, Wrighton said. I think it is your desire not to go that far and to simply know where theyre at and require neighborly-ness with others.

Wrighton said that city staff has not recently identified all the properties being used for short-term rentals. But, an online search by a Herald & Review reporter turned up 48 Decatur properties listed on Airbnb and 11 listed on Vrbo.

Decatur joins more than two-dozen cities in Illinois in imposing a local hotel/motel tax on short-term rentals, including Bloomington and Normal, which charge 6%, and Champaign, Urbana and Springfield, which charge 7%.

Short-term rentals are already subject to the states hotel tax, which is about 6%.

The ordinance passed 6-0. Mayor Julie Moore Wolfe was absent.

I think this is a good start and a good platform and we hope it stays at this, said Councilman Ed Culp. ... This is about the integrity of the residential neighborhood and just trying to keep the peace and it gives us a little bit more teeth to kind of regulate that.

Councilman David Horn called it an important step.

Neighborhood standards should be equivalent, whether you are a homeowner, whether you are a long-term renter or whether you are a short-term renter, Horn said.

In other business, the council approved an agreement with Richland Community College that will allow students to travel anytime on city buses for free with no restrictions as long as they have their student ID.

Under the agreement, Richland will reimburse the city based on actual ridership counts.

Since students will no longer pay the fares, they may be encouraged to ride the bus for more than just trips to school, Deputy City Manager Jon Kindseth and transit administrator Lacie Elzy wrote in a memo to council members.

The agreement comes just more than one month after the city and Decatur Public Schools approved an intergovernmental agreement allowing Eisenhower and MacArthur high school students to ride city buses for free.

City officials have also had discussions with Millikin University about a similar arrangement.

The council also approved a $65,000 engineering services agreement with Wisconsin-based Strand Associates, Inc. to study future water usage and delivery in the industrial northeastern portion of the city.

The area has existing industrial customers with the potential to add new industrial customers, Wrighton wrote in a memo to council. Understanding of existing capacity, timeline for upgrades and cost to increase the capacity is important to economic development and industrial developers.

The study will focus on the area north of Garfield Avenue and east of 22nd St.

The council also approved an agreement with the Illinois Commerce Commission, the Decatur & Eastern Illinois Railroad and the Illinois Department of Transportation to close the at-grade rail crossing between William Street and the railroad tracks that run parallel to U.S. Route 36.

The ungated crossing is currently at the intersection of U.S. Route 36, 22nd Street and William Street. Though access to-and-from the latter street is limited to right-turn only.

As constructed, only eastbound William Street traffic crosses the tracks, while the westbound lane curves just before the tracks, running parallel to them before hitting a right-turn only intersection with 22nd Street.

The road surface will be removed and restored to grass with curb and sidewalk extensions. The work is estimated at $180,000, a tab to be picked up by the ICC. The city will also receive about $20,000 each from the federal government and the railroad to incentivize the closure.
DECATUR  HSHS St. Marys Hospital will celebrate Earth Day with a tree planting and blessing and a prayer ceremony for cancer patients.

The hospital will hold its celebration on Thursday at 10 a.m. outside the Cancer Care Center. The service will include the planting and blessing of a redbud tree donated by a local landscaping company.

Prayers celebrating Earth Day and honoring patients undergoing cancer treatments will also be said.

St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of the Hospital Sisters of St. Francis and St. Marys Hospital, was a lover of nature, said Sister Ritamary Brown in a news release. Each year we like to gather, celebrate and give back to our Earth by planting a tree.

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